War Angel
Time: Sometime between Self-Inflicted Wounds II: Wait For the Wheel and Eat
Me
Disclaimer: I didn't create Farscape, didn't create the characters and don't make a plug nickel off of it.
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"It's my duty, my breeding since birth. It's who I am."
"You can be more."
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Part Six: Aeryn Ascendant
"And my salvation
The cost of how it's gotten
The cost of what's gained
All forgotten"
"Mephistopheles' Return" from Beethoven's Last Night Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Adran again looked back over his shoulder and scanned the crowd that filled the street. He was sure he felt someone watching him, but every time he looked around, he couldn't see anyone paying attention to him.
Must just be nerves, he thought. Just ease down and stay focused. You're almost through here. Just kill Si'teq'a, get back to the port and get the frell out of here.
Though he wouldn't have admitted it to Aeryn or his Sheritak aides, the news she had given him had disturbed him greatly. Adran always prided himself on knowing when he was being lied to. He didn't like the fact that the Sheritak had withheld the truth and he didn't know it.
I'd remind myself to pay more attention to them, if I wasn't leaving as soon as I ended the yotz's miserable life.
Adran made his way quickly through the narrow streets, trying to look like he was simply wandering. He had sent the two Sheritak aides in first, to find Si'teq'a's location. Once he had that, all he needed was an opening.
As he rounded a corner, Adran looked back over his shoulder, still feeling as if someone was watching him. There was nothing out of the ordinary in the stalls that lined the street, but the feeling persisted.
Then he heard the man's voice, singing just loud enough to be heard over the sound of the crowd. "In the not too distant future...next Sunday AD...there was a guy named Joel...not too different from you or me..."
Adran looked around and spotted a Sebacean man and a Luxan standing in a doorway. Both were watching him with what struck Adran as undue attention.
"Something I can do for you?"
The two exchanged a glance and the Sebacean took a step forward. "By any chance, is your name...Adran?"
"Maybe." Adran glanced down the street, half expecting gunfire to come from behind. "Who's asking?"
The man took a step forward, his face calm, but Adran was struck by the intensity in his blue eyes. "I've gone by many names over the cycles, but you can call me Servo. Tom Servo. This is my partner, Crow T. Robot."
Adran frowned. "Crow t'robot? That doesn't sound like a Luxan name."
The Luxan seemed amused. "And I suppose you're an expert on Luxan names. Rumor has it that you're here to assassinate the Northern leader, Si'teq'a."
Adran tensed and his hands moved toward his pulse pistol. "A rumor? Would this rumor by any chance be named Aeryn? Jool, perhaps?"
"Never heard of them." The man - Servo - took a step closer to Adran. "Maybe it would be smart for you to forget about Si'teq'a. It could be bad for your health."
"Meaning?"
The smile that crossed the Luxan's face was almost threatening. "It means that if Si'teq'a dies, you won't live to see the next sunrise."
Adran stared at the two and felt a cold smile cross his face. He looked at Servo and nodded. "So, how well do you know Aeryn?"
Servo shook his head. "How many times do I have to tell you? We don't know anyone named Aeryn. What we do know is that there are, shall we say, people in high places who would like to see Si'teq'a alive."
"Tem'eal needs to stay alive, too," the Luxan added.
"People in high places?" Adran took a step back. "Peacekeeper High Command? The Scarrans? What would they possibly want with this backwater rock?"
The Luxan nodded. "It's always good to have a local presence. Now, are you going to be smart?" Adran hesitated a microt. "I'll tell you what. Give me some time to think about it. I'll meet you in, say, an arn."
Servo stared at him then nodded once. "One arn. After that...well, let's just say that if we have to get some of the boys and come after you, it won't end pleasantly."
"I'll keep that in mind. Now, if you'll excuse me. I have a life to lead." Adran backed away a few more steps, turned and continued down the street.
As he reached the next intersection, Adran glanced back down the street. He wasn't surprised to see Servo and the Luxan gone. You're being unsubtle, Aeryn, he thought as he continued walking.
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After a few minutes, John poked his head out the door and checked the street. "Okay, D. He's gone." He stepped into the light, D'Argo close behind him. "I guess that didn't work."
"I didn't think it would. If he is a mercenary, then idle threats wouldn't dissuade him."
"Just had to slow him down a little." John looked up. "Sparky, you there?" As he watched, John saw Rygel's thronesled lift from a rooftop.
"I'm here. That man you were talking to, he's the one?"
"That's him. Remember, just keep an eye on him. And don't get too close."
"I know what to do, Crichton. I'll let you know where he goes."
John watched the thronesled for another microt then started down the street. "Let's go find the bug, D."
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From across the street, Aeryn watched the unadorned door. It looked plain enough, but she didn't want to think about what might be waiting for her on the other side. "Rygel, are you sure this is where Adran went?"
"He's been in there for about an arn. It's some kind of bar or restaurant, I believe."
"Have you seen any Sheritak go in?"
"A few. I couldn't tell if they're the ones you're looking for."
Aeryn ground her teeth and looked around. The street wasn't busy, but the lack of traffic didn't make her feel any better."
She turned to Chiana and Jool, who stood quietly to one side. "Chiana, stay here. If Adran comes out, follow him. Just make sure you keep your distance from him." Aeryn tapped her comm. "Stark?"
"I'm at the back door, Aeryn."
"Have you seen anyone?"
"Some natives. No one else."
Aeryn considered then nodded. "All right. I'm about to go in, so be ready."
"What about me," Jool asked.
"You come with me. We started this together. We might as well end it together. Just watch my back. If you see anything suspicious, or if you see any Sheritak coming toward us, let me know. Leave Adran to me." Aeryn checked her pulse pistol and started across the street.
Through the door, Aeryn found a fair-sized, dimly lit room. One side of the room was dominated by a long bar, staffed by two Sheritak. There were several people leaning on the bar, including Adran. The rest of the space was filled with tables.
Most of the people turned to watch them as they walked to the bar. Most of the off-worlders looked at them with indifference, while the Sheritak present had anger in their eyes.
As they stepped up to the bar, Aeryn held up a hand, stopping Jool a few steps away. "Stay here and watch." Aeryn walked up to Adran and leaned on the bar. "Hello, Adran."
He glanced at her then turned back to his drink. "Hello, Aeryn. Still trying, I see."
Aeryn watched him sip his drink. "Why don't you stop this right now? We've both been frelled with and lied to. We can work together and get the frell out of here with our lives."
"I don't like to walk away from a mark, Aeryn. Even if this is an unimportant backwater rock."
Aeryn looked down at the bar and tried to come up with another course. She glanced up as one of the bartenders stepped in front of her. She looked at Adran and said, "I'll have what he's having."
Adran stared at her, a surprised look on his face. "By any chance, do you know someone by the name of Servo?"
"Servo?" Aeryn frowned and thought, That sounds like something John would come up with. "No. I don't know anyone by that name. Why?"
"No reason." Adran watched the bartender set down a small glass in front of Aeryn. "A word of advice, Aeryn: Drink that slowly. It's potent."
Aeryn picked up the glass, threw back the shot and set the glass back down. She winced slightly as the liquor burned down to her stomach. "You call that potent? I used to have stronger drinks for breakfast while growing up on the command carrier. Now, why don't you..."
"Aeryn!"
At the sound of Jool's voice, Aeryn spun and drew her pulse pistol. She was expecting to see the two Sheritak that had been working with Adran. She wasn't expecting to see six of the natives walking toward them.
"Do you know where you are, Aeryn? Do you know what's so special about this place?"
Aeryn shook her head. "My...sources said this was a bar."
"Your sources? You mean the Hynerian that was following me from the rooftops? If either of you had bothered to inquire, you would have known that this establishment is frequented by Southern natives. They know exactly who you two are."
Jool looked over the Sheritak and took a step back toward Aeryn. "Now, wait a microt," she said. "We're trying to find a way to resolve this peacefully."
"Only one way this will end," one of the Sheritak said. "It will end when Si'teq'a is dead, when the two of you are dead, and when your comrades are dead."
Aeryn swept the group with her pistol. "Look, I have no plans to kill your leader. All I want to do is keep Adran here from killing Si'teq'a and getting my friends off this planet."
"It matters not what you want," another Sheritak said. "It only matters that you do not leave here alive."
Adran took another sip of his drink the crossed his arms. "Well, Aeryn, it looks like you've lost. No hard feeling? After all, you would've done the same in my place."
"You're right." Aeryn tapped her comm. "Chiana? Rygel?"
"Yes, Aeryn."
"I'm still here."
"Are there any Sheritak out in the street?"
"Some. Ten or twelve at the most."
"There are more the next street over. Why?"
"If anyone other than Jool or myself walk out that door, start screaming that they're the one who's going to kill Si'teq'a. Understood?" "Understood."
"Our boy steps out, I scream. Got it."
"Stark, did you hear that?"
"Yes, Aeryn."
Adran smiled and bowed slightly. "Very good, Aeryn. We seem to be at another stand-off."
"It does seem to be our lot in life." Aeryn's eyes darted to the Sheritak. "Tell them to back up a little."
"Sorry, Aeryn, but they won't listen to me. They weren't assigned to assist me, so they aren't under any obligation to do anything I ask of them." Adran waved a hand toward Aeryn and Jool. "Have at them, boys."
As the Sheritak began to advance, Aeryn put herself between Jool and the natives. "There's no need for this. Be smart, turn around and walk away." The six continued advancing on them. "I won't hesitate to shoot."
"You cannot shoot all of us before we reach you. You journey ends here."
Oh frell. Aeryn's eyes narrowed and she wondered how many of the Sheritak she would be able to shoot before the natives were on them.
There has to be a...wait... Aeryn glanced back at Jool, then at the Sheritak, then at Adran. A thin smile crossed her face.
"Jool," she said in a calm voice. "I must apologize to you."
Behind her, Jool looked confused. "Apologize? For what?"
"For this." Before Jool could ask again, Aeryn took one step back and drove the heel of her boot down on Jool's feet. As Jool's pained scream reached ear-splitting decibels, Aeryn slapped her comm. "Chiana! Get in here!" If Chiana answered, Aeryn didn't hear it; she immediately covered her ears in an attempt to block out the noise.
Caught by surprise, Adran and the Sheritak staggered back. As Aeryn swung around and opened fire on the natives, she saw out of the corner of her eye Chiana run in, her own pistol drawn. Caught between them, the Sheritak were quickly eliminated.
"All right! That's enough! Stop screaming!" Aeryn shook her head to clear it and turned in time to see Adran push through a door at the back of the room.
As she ran for the door, Aeryn slapped her comm. "Stark! He's heading your way! John! D'Argo! Adran got away from us!" "We'll be ready for him, Aeryn."
The door led to a narrow corridor. The few doors along the corridor walls opened into empty rooms that would have offered Adran no place to hide. At the end of the corridor, another door opened out into an equally narrow alleyway. Just beyond the door, they found Stark sprawled out on the ground, Rygel hovering over him.
"I was waiting for him to come out," Stark mumbled as he climbed to his feet. "He didn't stop running as he came through the door. He looked desperate."
"Now what," Rygel said.
"Chiana, you and Jool stay with Stark. Start back to the transport pod. Rygel, go back up and see if you can spot Adran. He'll probably head for Si'teq'a. I'll follow him down here." Before anyone could respond, Aeryn started running.
It wasn't hard to pick up Adran's trail; all Aeryn had to do was follow the upset carts and annoyed looking natives. She spotted him not far down the street, running through a small cluster of stalls and carts.
"Adran!"
Adran turned to look back at her, never breaking stride. He collided with a cart filled with bottles and jugs. As the contents of the jugs spilled out, Adran fell to the ground.
Aeryn slid to a stop and watched the owner of the cart begin screaming at Adran. The mercenary stared at him then kicked out, sending the Sheritak tumbling away. Adran began to climb to his feet, his back to Aeryn.
"Don't do this, Adran," she muttered. "Be smart. Turn around. Walk away. Don't do it. Don't..."
Adran turned and raised his pistol.
Aeryn squeezed her trigger.
As Adran's lifeless body dropped to the ground, Aeryn sighed. "Why don't they ever listen?"
Aeryn looked around at the Sheritak that began to assemble around her and tapped her comm. "John."
"Aeryn? What's going on?"
"Adran's been taken care of."
John was silent for a microt. "I see. What now?"
"Now? We end this." ****************************************
Si'teq'a watched his kinsman pace the large, bare room and tried to keep himself from feeling even more despair. "What of Shru'terak'va? Has there been any contact with her?"
Ti'quet'a stopped pacing and clasped his four hands together. "I do not know. I have not heard from her since her two aides have been killed. Possible, it is, that she has fled."
"Would she have done this?"
"If she suspected the threat to her Leviathan was a simple ruse, then perhaps she would. However, a former Peacekeeper she is. All Peacekeepers enjoy killing."
"If only we could be certain." Si'teq'a waved toward an aide, who stood quietly by the door, next to two armed guards. "Dispatch operatives to the south. Have them investigate..."
Through the door came the sound of loud voices, Sheritak and others. Ti'quet'a moved closer to Si'teq'a and began to move him toward the back of the room.
"Seal the doors! No one is to come in!"
Before the guards could carry out the orders, the doors swung open. Aeryn strode into the room, her pulse pistol in hand. John and D'Argo were close behind her, both with weapons drawn. As they subdued the guards, Aeryn continued forward.
"Shru'terak'va! You're alive! I had no hope that..."
"Quiet." Aeryn stopped in front of Ti'quet'a. "You lied to me. You didn't tell me that if I succeeded in killing Tem'eal, we'd still be killed."
"It was necessary to withhold certain aspects of the title," Ti'quet'a said in an unsteady voice. "You would not have done what we wanted if you knew your death was assured."
"So we're dead if she does, dead if she doesn't." John shook his head. "Fuzzy logic."
"You expected me to take a life to satisfy your political aspirations, and you threatened the lives of my friends, Moya and Pilot in order to make sure I did that." At the sight of the look that crossed Ti'quet'a's face, Aeryn frowned. "What?"
"Perhaps I...ah, mispoke when I said the Leviathan would be destroyed."
Aeryn's eyes narrowed. "There...are...no...missiles?"
"Ah...no."
John walked up behind Aeryn. "Wait a microt. You mean, we could've left anytime any you wouldn't have done anything? What about the missile lock on Moya?" "We used simple sensors configured to mimic targeting systems. Nothing would have been done if you had broken orbit."
D'Argo growled, "Why not just kill them both and be done with it?"
"Tempting, D'Argo, but it won't solve anything." Aeryn glanced back at John, then turned back to the Sheritak. "You should know that I did not kill Tem'eal."
Ti'quet'a's eyes went wide, while Si'teq'a slumped in resignation. "You didn't kill...we had an agreement!"
"I'm changing the agreement."
"Pray she does not change it further," John said in a low voice. In response to the questioning look Aeryn gave him, he shrugged. "Hey, I can't do James Earl Jones."
Aeryn stared at him a microt longer then turned to Si'teq'a. "You. You're coming with us." Ti'quet'a started forward, but stopped when Aeryn took aim for him. "You're staying here." John tapped her on the shoulder. "What?"
"Parts. Don't forget the parts for Moya."
"Right. I want the parts we originally came here for brought to our transport pod immediately." Aeryn stared at the Sheritak. "I've had enough of you and this planet. Once this is finished, I'll be very glad to get the frell away from here. Now move!"
As they started from the room, with D'Argo half-leading, half-carrying Si'teq'a, John asked, "Where to now?"
"Now? Now we're going south."
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John wiped grease from his hands as he watched the hanger doors slide open. It had been a long three days, much of the time spent repairing Moya's synthetic gravity system and being concerned about Aeryn. She had spent most of the time out of contact with them, watching over both Si'teq'a and Tem'eal, making sure no one else tried to assassinate them. When she did call, it was usually a short message telling them she was all right. The messages hadn't made John feel better; he had seen things go wrong when people were saying things were all right.
At least she's back now, he thought. She's back, Moya's almost repaired and no one's injured. Things are looking up.
He watched Aeryn walk down the ramp. There was an amused look on her face, and she was almost smiling. "Welcome back, Aeryn. Everything cool with the bugs?"
"They have everything under control now. The tribal councils have made their decision." John nodded. "Any other assassination attempts?"
"No, nothing. They just sat there and spent the time telling me how I'd never be able to come back here again. If I did, it would mean immediate execution."
"I'm sure you're all broken up about that."
"I'll try and find some way to live with that fact."
As they started walking from the hanger, John asked, "So which one did they pick?"
Aeryn thought for a microt then laughed. "Neither. The councils picked some one else. This one promised to lead the Sheritak into a new golden age. How're the repairs coming?"
"Almost done. About another arn or so and we'll have the synthetic gravity system back on line. Pilot, can Moya get underway?"
"Yes, Commander. Moya was anxious for Officer Sun to return so we could leave. Breaking orbit now."
"Good, Pilot. As soon as she's able, have Moya starburst away from here." John glanced at Aeryn out of the corner of his eye and noticed the amused look had faded slightly. "Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. It's just..." Aeryn took a deep breath. "As far as they're concerned, all Peacekeepers are mindless killers. Is that..."
"Is that all you are? Frell no it's not. I always told you that you could be more."
"Am I?"
"Did you kill Tem'eal? If you were the killer they believed you to be, wouldn't you have done everything in your power to kill Tem'eal, not find a way to end this without killing anyone but the man who tried to kill you."
Aeryn sighed again. "You're an eternal optimist."
John shrugged. "Optimism and hope. It's what keeps me going. Now, let's finish these repairs so Moya can starburst again. I'm beginning to think we need a can of Raid."
"Let me change clothes, then I'll meet up with you." John nodded and turned down a side corridor.
Aeryn watched him for a microt the continued to her quarters, still not sure if anything about her had changed.
THE END
You can live your life in a thousand ways
But it all comes down to that single day
When you realize what you regret
What you can't reclaim but you can't forget
If I could just fall back into my life
And find you there inside this night
And let eternity just drift away.
"After The Fall" from Beethoven's Last Night Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Disclaimer: I didn't create Farscape, didn't create the characters and don't make a plug nickel off of it.
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"It's my duty, my breeding since birth. It's who I am."
"You can be more."
****************************************
Part Six: Aeryn Ascendant
"And my salvation
The cost of how it's gotten
The cost of what's gained
All forgotten"
"Mephistopheles' Return" from Beethoven's Last Night Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Adran again looked back over his shoulder and scanned the crowd that filled the street. He was sure he felt someone watching him, but every time he looked around, he couldn't see anyone paying attention to him.
Must just be nerves, he thought. Just ease down and stay focused. You're almost through here. Just kill Si'teq'a, get back to the port and get the frell out of here.
Though he wouldn't have admitted it to Aeryn or his Sheritak aides, the news she had given him had disturbed him greatly. Adran always prided himself on knowing when he was being lied to. He didn't like the fact that the Sheritak had withheld the truth and he didn't know it.
I'd remind myself to pay more attention to them, if I wasn't leaving as soon as I ended the yotz's miserable life.
Adran made his way quickly through the narrow streets, trying to look like he was simply wandering. He had sent the two Sheritak aides in first, to find Si'teq'a's location. Once he had that, all he needed was an opening.
As he rounded a corner, Adran looked back over his shoulder, still feeling as if someone was watching him. There was nothing out of the ordinary in the stalls that lined the street, but the feeling persisted.
Then he heard the man's voice, singing just loud enough to be heard over the sound of the crowd. "In the not too distant future...next Sunday AD...there was a guy named Joel...not too different from you or me..."
Adran looked around and spotted a Sebacean man and a Luxan standing in a doorway. Both were watching him with what struck Adran as undue attention.
"Something I can do for you?"
The two exchanged a glance and the Sebacean took a step forward. "By any chance, is your name...Adran?"
"Maybe." Adran glanced down the street, half expecting gunfire to come from behind. "Who's asking?"
The man took a step forward, his face calm, but Adran was struck by the intensity in his blue eyes. "I've gone by many names over the cycles, but you can call me Servo. Tom Servo. This is my partner, Crow T. Robot."
Adran frowned. "Crow t'robot? That doesn't sound like a Luxan name."
The Luxan seemed amused. "And I suppose you're an expert on Luxan names. Rumor has it that you're here to assassinate the Northern leader, Si'teq'a."
Adran tensed and his hands moved toward his pulse pistol. "A rumor? Would this rumor by any chance be named Aeryn? Jool, perhaps?"
"Never heard of them." The man - Servo - took a step closer to Adran. "Maybe it would be smart for you to forget about Si'teq'a. It could be bad for your health."
"Meaning?"
The smile that crossed the Luxan's face was almost threatening. "It means that if Si'teq'a dies, you won't live to see the next sunrise."
Adran stared at the two and felt a cold smile cross his face. He looked at Servo and nodded. "So, how well do you know Aeryn?"
Servo shook his head. "How many times do I have to tell you? We don't know anyone named Aeryn. What we do know is that there are, shall we say, people in high places who would like to see Si'teq'a alive."
"Tem'eal needs to stay alive, too," the Luxan added.
"People in high places?" Adran took a step back. "Peacekeeper High Command? The Scarrans? What would they possibly want with this backwater rock?"
The Luxan nodded. "It's always good to have a local presence. Now, are you going to be smart?" Adran hesitated a microt. "I'll tell you what. Give me some time to think about it. I'll meet you in, say, an arn."
Servo stared at him then nodded once. "One arn. After that...well, let's just say that if we have to get some of the boys and come after you, it won't end pleasantly."
"I'll keep that in mind. Now, if you'll excuse me. I have a life to lead." Adran backed away a few more steps, turned and continued down the street.
As he reached the next intersection, Adran glanced back down the street. He wasn't surprised to see Servo and the Luxan gone. You're being unsubtle, Aeryn, he thought as he continued walking.
****************************************
After a few minutes, John poked his head out the door and checked the street. "Okay, D. He's gone." He stepped into the light, D'Argo close behind him. "I guess that didn't work."
"I didn't think it would. If he is a mercenary, then idle threats wouldn't dissuade him."
"Just had to slow him down a little." John looked up. "Sparky, you there?" As he watched, John saw Rygel's thronesled lift from a rooftop.
"I'm here. That man you were talking to, he's the one?"
"That's him. Remember, just keep an eye on him. And don't get too close."
"I know what to do, Crichton. I'll let you know where he goes."
John watched the thronesled for another microt then started down the street. "Let's go find the bug, D."
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From across the street, Aeryn watched the unadorned door. It looked plain enough, but she didn't want to think about what might be waiting for her on the other side. "Rygel, are you sure this is where Adran went?"
"He's been in there for about an arn. It's some kind of bar or restaurant, I believe."
"Have you seen any Sheritak go in?"
"A few. I couldn't tell if they're the ones you're looking for."
Aeryn ground her teeth and looked around. The street wasn't busy, but the lack of traffic didn't make her feel any better."
She turned to Chiana and Jool, who stood quietly to one side. "Chiana, stay here. If Adran comes out, follow him. Just make sure you keep your distance from him." Aeryn tapped her comm. "Stark?"
"I'm at the back door, Aeryn."
"Have you seen anyone?"
"Some natives. No one else."
Aeryn considered then nodded. "All right. I'm about to go in, so be ready."
"What about me," Jool asked.
"You come with me. We started this together. We might as well end it together. Just watch my back. If you see anything suspicious, or if you see any Sheritak coming toward us, let me know. Leave Adran to me." Aeryn checked her pulse pistol and started across the street.
Through the door, Aeryn found a fair-sized, dimly lit room. One side of the room was dominated by a long bar, staffed by two Sheritak. There were several people leaning on the bar, including Adran. The rest of the space was filled with tables.
Most of the people turned to watch them as they walked to the bar. Most of the off-worlders looked at them with indifference, while the Sheritak present had anger in their eyes.
As they stepped up to the bar, Aeryn held up a hand, stopping Jool a few steps away. "Stay here and watch." Aeryn walked up to Adran and leaned on the bar. "Hello, Adran."
He glanced at her then turned back to his drink. "Hello, Aeryn. Still trying, I see."
Aeryn watched him sip his drink. "Why don't you stop this right now? We've both been frelled with and lied to. We can work together and get the frell out of here with our lives."
"I don't like to walk away from a mark, Aeryn. Even if this is an unimportant backwater rock."
Aeryn looked down at the bar and tried to come up with another course. She glanced up as one of the bartenders stepped in front of her. She looked at Adran and said, "I'll have what he's having."
Adran stared at her, a surprised look on his face. "By any chance, do you know someone by the name of Servo?"
"Servo?" Aeryn frowned and thought, That sounds like something John would come up with. "No. I don't know anyone by that name. Why?"
"No reason." Adran watched the bartender set down a small glass in front of Aeryn. "A word of advice, Aeryn: Drink that slowly. It's potent."
Aeryn picked up the glass, threw back the shot and set the glass back down. She winced slightly as the liquor burned down to her stomach. "You call that potent? I used to have stronger drinks for breakfast while growing up on the command carrier. Now, why don't you..."
"Aeryn!"
At the sound of Jool's voice, Aeryn spun and drew her pulse pistol. She was expecting to see the two Sheritak that had been working with Adran. She wasn't expecting to see six of the natives walking toward them.
"Do you know where you are, Aeryn? Do you know what's so special about this place?"
Aeryn shook her head. "My...sources said this was a bar."
"Your sources? You mean the Hynerian that was following me from the rooftops? If either of you had bothered to inquire, you would have known that this establishment is frequented by Southern natives. They know exactly who you two are."
Jool looked over the Sheritak and took a step back toward Aeryn. "Now, wait a microt," she said. "We're trying to find a way to resolve this peacefully."
"Only one way this will end," one of the Sheritak said. "It will end when Si'teq'a is dead, when the two of you are dead, and when your comrades are dead."
Aeryn swept the group with her pistol. "Look, I have no plans to kill your leader. All I want to do is keep Adran here from killing Si'teq'a and getting my friends off this planet."
"It matters not what you want," another Sheritak said. "It only matters that you do not leave here alive."
Adran took another sip of his drink the crossed his arms. "Well, Aeryn, it looks like you've lost. No hard feeling? After all, you would've done the same in my place."
"You're right." Aeryn tapped her comm. "Chiana? Rygel?"
"Yes, Aeryn."
"I'm still here."
"Are there any Sheritak out in the street?"
"Some. Ten or twelve at the most."
"There are more the next street over. Why?"
"If anyone other than Jool or myself walk out that door, start screaming that they're the one who's going to kill Si'teq'a. Understood?" "Understood."
"Our boy steps out, I scream. Got it."
"Stark, did you hear that?"
"Yes, Aeryn."
Adran smiled and bowed slightly. "Very good, Aeryn. We seem to be at another stand-off."
"It does seem to be our lot in life." Aeryn's eyes darted to the Sheritak. "Tell them to back up a little."
"Sorry, Aeryn, but they won't listen to me. They weren't assigned to assist me, so they aren't under any obligation to do anything I ask of them." Adran waved a hand toward Aeryn and Jool. "Have at them, boys."
As the Sheritak began to advance, Aeryn put herself between Jool and the natives. "There's no need for this. Be smart, turn around and walk away." The six continued advancing on them. "I won't hesitate to shoot."
"You cannot shoot all of us before we reach you. You journey ends here."
Oh frell. Aeryn's eyes narrowed and she wondered how many of the Sheritak she would be able to shoot before the natives were on them.
There has to be a...wait... Aeryn glanced back at Jool, then at the Sheritak, then at Adran. A thin smile crossed her face.
"Jool," she said in a calm voice. "I must apologize to you."
Behind her, Jool looked confused. "Apologize? For what?"
"For this." Before Jool could ask again, Aeryn took one step back and drove the heel of her boot down on Jool's feet. As Jool's pained scream reached ear-splitting decibels, Aeryn slapped her comm. "Chiana! Get in here!" If Chiana answered, Aeryn didn't hear it; she immediately covered her ears in an attempt to block out the noise.
Caught by surprise, Adran and the Sheritak staggered back. As Aeryn swung around and opened fire on the natives, she saw out of the corner of her eye Chiana run in, her own pistol drawn. Caught between them, the Sheritak were quickly eliminated.
"All right! That's enough! Stop screaming!" Aeryn shook her head to clear it and turned in time to see Adran push through a door at the back of the room.
As she ran for the door, Aeryn slapped her comm. "Stark! He's heading your way! John! D'Argo! Adran got away from us!" "We'll be ready for him, Aeryn."
The door led to a narrow corridor. The few doors along the corridor walls opened into empty rooms that would have offered Adran no place to hide. At the end of the corridor, another door opened out into an equally narrow alleyway. Just beyond the door, they found Stark sprawled out on the ground, Rygel hovering over him.
"I was waiting for him to come out," Stark mumbled as he climbed to his feet. "He didn't stop running as he came through the door. He looked desperate."
"Now what," Rygel said.
"Chiana, you and Jool stay with Stark. Start back to the transport pod. Rygel, go back up and see if you can spot Adran. He'll probably head for Si'teq'a. I'll follow him down here." Before anyone could respond, Aeryn started running.
It wasn't hard to pick up Adran's trail; all Aeryn had to do was follow the upset carts and annoyed looking natives. She spotted him not far down the street, running through a small cluster of stalls and carts.
"Adran!"
Adran turned to look back at her, never breaking stride. He collided with a cart filled with bottles and jugs. As the contents of the jugs spilled out, Adran fell to the ground.
Aeryn slid to a stop and watched the owner of the cart begin screaming at Adran. The mercenary stared at him then kicked out, sending the Sheritak tumbling away. Adran began to climb to his feet, his back to Aeryn.
"Don't do this, Adran," she muttered. "Be smart. Turn around. Walk away. Don't do it. Don't..."
Adran turned and raised his pistol.
Aeryn squeezed her trigger.
As Adran's lifeless body dropped to the ground, Aeryn sighed. "Why don't they ever listen?"
Aeryn looked around at the Sheritak that began to assemble around her and tapped her comm. "John."
"Aeryn? What's going on?"
"Adran's been taken care of."
John was silent for a microt. "I see. What now?"
"Now? We end this." ****************************************
Si'teq'a watched his kinsman pace the large, bare room and tried to keep himself from feeling even more despair. "What of Shru'terak'va? Has there been any contact with her?"
Ti'quet'a stopped pacing and clasped his four hands together. "I do not know. I have not heard from her since her two aides have been killed. Possible, it is, that she has fled."
"Would she have done this?"
"If she suspected the threat to her Leviathan was a simple ruse, then perhaps she would. However, a former Peacekeeper she is. All Peacekeepers enjoy killing."
"If only we could be certain." Si'teq'a waved toward an aide, who stood quietly by the door, next to two armed guards. "Dispatch operatives to the south. Have them investigate..."
Through the door came the sound of loud voices, Sheritak and others. Ti'quet'a moved closer to Si'teq'a and began to move him toward the back of the room.
"Seal the doors! No one is to come in!"
Before the guards could carry out the orders, the doors swung open. Aeryn strode into the room, her pulse pistol in hand. John and D'Argo were close behind her, both with weapons drawn. As they subdued the guards, Aeryn continued forward.
"Shru'terak'va! You're alive! I had no hope that..."
"Quiet." Aeryn stopped in front of Ti'quet'a. "You lied to me. You didn't tell me that if I succeeded in killing Tem'eal, we'd still be killed."
"It was necessary to withhold certain aspects of the title," Ti'quet'a said in an unsteady voice. "You would not have done what we wanted if you knew your death was assured."
"So we're dead if she does, dead if she doesn't." John shook his head. "Fuzzy logic."
"You expected me to take a life to satisfy your political aspirations, and you threatened the lives of my friends, Moya and Pilot in order to make sure I did that." At the sight of the look that crossed Ti'quet'a's face, Aeryn frowned. "What?"
"Perhaps I...ah, mispoke when I said the Leviathan would be destroyed."
Aeryn's eyes narrowed. "There...are...no...missiles?"
"Ah...no."
John walked up behind Aeryn. "Wait a microt. You mean, we could've left anytime any you wouldn't have done anything? What about the missile lock on Moya?" "We used simple sensors configured to mimic targeting systems. Nothing would have been done if you had broken orbit."
D'Argo growled, "Why not just kill them both and be done with it?"
"Tempting, D'Argo, but it won't solve anything." Aeryn glanced back at John, then turned back to the Sheritak. "You should know that I did not kill Tem'eal."
Ti'quet'a's eyes went wide, while Si'teq'a slumped in resignation. "You didn't kill...we had an agreement!"
"I'm changing the agreement."
"Pray she does not change it further," John said in a low voice. In response to the questioning look Aeryn gave him, he shrugged. "Hey, I can't do James Earl Jones."
Aeryn stared at him a microt longer then turned to Si'teq'a. "You. You're coming with us." Ti'quet'a started forward, but stopped when Aeryn took aim for him. "You're staying here." John tapped her on the shoulder. "What?"
"Parts. Don't forget the parts for Moya."
"Right. I want the parts we originally came here for brought to our transport pod immediately." Aeryn stared at the Sheritak. "I've had enough of you and this planet. Once this is finished, I'll be very glad to get the frell away from here. Now move!"
As they started from the room, with D'Argo half-leading, half-carrying Si'teq'a, John asked, "Where to now?"
"Now? Now we're going south."
****************************************
John wiped grease from his hands as he watched the hanger doors slide open. It had been a long three days, much of the time spent repairing Moya's synthetic gravity system and being concerned about Aeryn. She had spent most of the time out of contact with them, watching over both Si'teq'a and Tem'eal, making sure no one else tried to assassinate them. When she did call, it was usually a short message telling them she was all right. The messages hadn't made John feel better; he had seen things go wrong when people were saying things were all right.
At least she's back now, he thought. She's back, Moya's almost repaired and no one's injured. Things are looking up.
He watched Aeryn walk down the ramp. There was an amused look on her face, and she was almost smiling. "Welcome back, Aeryn. Everything cool with the bugs?"
"They have everything under control now. The tribal councils have made their decision." John nodded. "Any other assassination attempts?"
"No, nothing. They just sat there and spent the time telling me how I'd never be able to come back here again. If I did, it would mean immediate execution."
"I'm sure you're all broken up about that."
"I'll try and find some way to live with that fact."
As they started walking from the hanger, John asked, "So which one did they pick?"
Aeryn thought for a microt then laughed. "Neither. The councils picked some one else. This one promised to lead the Sheritak into a new golden age. How're the repairs coming?"
"Almost done. About another arn or so and we'll have the synthetic gravity system back on line. Pilot, can Moya get underway?"
"Yes, Commander. Moya was anxious for Officer Sun to return so we could leave. Breaking orbit now."
"Good, Pilot. As soon as she's able, have Moya starburst away from here." John glanced at Aeryn out of the corner of his eye and noticed the amused look had faded slightly. "Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. It's just..." Aeryn took a deep breath. "As far as they're concerned, all Peacekeepers are mindless killers. Is that..."
"Is that all you are? Frell no it's not. I always told you that you could be more."
"Am I?"
"Did you kill Tem'eal? If you were the killer they believed you to be, wouldn't you have done everything in your power to kill Tem'eal, not find a way to end this without killing anyone but the man who tried to kill you."
Aeryn sighed again. "You're an eternal optimist."
John shrugged. "Optimism and hope. It's what keeps me going. Now, let's finish these repairs so Moya can starburst again. I'm beginning to think we need a can of Raid."
"Let me change clothes, then I'll meet up with you." John nodded and turned down a side corridor.
Aeryn watched him for a microt the continued to her quarters, still not sure if anything about her had changed.
THE END
You can live your life in a thousand ways
But it all comes down to that single day
When you realize what you regret
What you can't reclaim but you can't forget
If I could just fall back into my life
And find you there inside this night
And let eternity just drift away.
"After The Fall" from Beethoven's Last Night Trans-Siberian Orchestra