XXXX Author's Note- Well, it's been a while, I know, but I've been suffering with depression, not to mention a million other things going on with work and stuff. And I HATE COLD WEATHER!!!! I spent all day today shoveling, even though I enjoy the workout. (I'm into bodybuilding). Oh, yesterday I met one of my sister's friends, who looks like Sanaa Lathan!! -whistles- It's so cool that I've asked her to come over so I can get her to model the blooded mark on her cheek for me ;) And by the way, I've updated stories in other sections, and everyone from this section is wayyyy better with reviewing, way to go! You guys kick Ooman butt!
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Xhara stood and admired her trophy with a serene quietness, the only noise being the ship's engines. She had just come from her own room, having visited with the recovering Yan'ya of whom held no harsh feelings against her bunk-mate. Xhara itched to reach up and caress the skull of the queen, but she withdrew her taloned hand, as though she might ruin the beauty of it. The ship was heading to her father's Homeworld, nervously Xhara knew she had a lot to be nervous about.
A loud click sounded off to the corner of the trophy room, Xhara remained perfectly still, only darting her yellow eyes to see what had happened. After a moment of long silence Xhara chose to leave the room, she stopped when she reached the doorway and chose instead to lock the door. Turning around sharply she stared a small drone straight in the face.
"When did you get in here?" Xhara quietly asked with a sly smile, the drone bared his teeth and lunged. Xhara quickly moved out of the way, dressed in only under clothes, she was unarmed. Instead she readied her own talons and searched in her mind for her brother.
-Thian, I've got a little problem here, I need to borrow your mind- She could feel her elder brother's mind presence almost immediately.
-How in Paya's name did he get in here?- Was his response, as he allowed his sister to tap his telekinetic power. -You know, you're strong enough on your own- Xhara paced the room with the drone and growled.
-I can only use it when I'm pissed- She shot back, gaining laughter in response.
-Then get mad, Dipshit- Thian sent the thought with a mental shove, Xhara spread her hands wide, causing the drone to be caught in between an invisible shield. -All yours, Stupid- Thian added before separating his mind. Xhara gave a loud roar before crushing the drone's brain with her telekinesis and watched as the lifeless form thumped to the floor. Xhara rose her hairless brows.
"Another trophy".
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Xhara stood solid on her feet watching the approach to the Homeworld with wide yellow eyes, the descriptions her mother gave her vividly coming to life. The cycle of the planet's three suns at its daily end as rich aqua clouds spread thickly over the horizon. The planet consisted of three continents the Central one being by far the largest and where the home of her grandmother was. Which was their initial purpose for the trip. The oldest of the Michael's children finally ready to be accepted into Yautja society, a feat hard to pull off. Xhara was nervous, extremely nervous and understandably so.
"Amazing isn't it?" Thian quietly moved to stand behind his sister, watching out the view-window as the ship was being pulled in by the planet's gravitational pull. Seeing as it was landing time, the two headed into the next room where the other young warriors were already strapping in for the bumpy ride.
"Woah..." Yo'Shuk couldn't help stretching his neck just enough to peer out the view window at the landing site they were approaching. It was the size of nine football fields wide at the very least, and long as a jet runway. Low, large buildings framed one side and beyond them, across an access road, were separate structures, small enough to be dwellings.
They came down, Sodan's handling of the ship made them all glad they were well strapped in but the motions certainly indicated the ship was being well controlled.
Getting out of her seat, Xhara felt awfully heavy, it took a real effort to bring one hand over to release the safety belt.
"You will adjust", Yan'ya offered, moving around with ease, "just move slowly and pretend that is how you move".
"Wow!" exclaimed Yo'Shuk when, with considerable effort, he pushed himself to his feet. "My knees are not going to like this".
"Hurry with your armor", Sodan called out down the passageway to them. A pounding on the door and Sodan leaned forward to flick the release switch on the hatch.
There were Yautja growls of "get out of the way" and the thud of their heavy feet on the deck as Sodan quickly announced who he was. Remembering all the drills, Xhara somehow managed to get to her feet and assume the proper attention stance. She thought her arms would lengthen from the weight on her shoulders and it was hard to keep her chin up with the extra weight of the mask in the heavy gravity. Fortunately, she didn't have to say or do anything.
When Sodan finished, the other Yautja looked towards the six fully armored warriors. His brutish features and small bright yellow eyes were typical of the species. As soon as he left the bridge, Xhara put both hands on the sides of the companionway to give herself some support.
-Mom wasn't kidding about this heavy gravity stuff- She avoided talking and instead sent the thought to her brothers.
-Makes you glad you listen once in a while- Thian meant it as an insult, but Sodan motioned for them to leave the ship before Xhara could retaliate.
They stepped off the ship, their feet immediately touching the hot sand below, Xhara resisted the urge to protest. It was the setting of the last of the planet's suns, a Yautja day significantly longer than one Earth day. Another subtle difference was weather was extremely hot, the planet had two hours of dusk in a day which couldn't begin to cool anything down.
Not one Yautja gave the group a second glance as they boarded a land flitter to transport them to Nee'Va's home, flitters mostly used during dusk to avoid the large predatory night crawlers that only fed during this time. They passed several strange creatures along the way that they had been taught were the main food source on the planet. A cow-like creature called a "yaazii".
The architecture of the Yautja was nothing like human homes, a mixture of futuristic electronics and old-world structuring. Single-level dwellings with slanted roofing designed specifically due to constant seismic activity.
There wasn't much plant-life considering the hot conditions and next to no precipitation despite the humidity. Several Yautja collected foreign plants and grew them in hydroponic systems. Nee'Va herself had an impressive collection, females being the more resourceful as well as more intelligent of the species.
Reaching Nee'Va's dwelling, she was waiting for them at the door, the entire group quickly entered the home and looked around at their surroundings in admiration.
"I was expecting you for quite some time, I know you intend on returning to -Earth-", Nee'Va spoke directly to her son, the others began removing their armor as to become comfortable. Nee'Va studied her hybrid grandchildren with interest, she moved towards Xhara who had to strain her neck to look up into her grandmother's eyes. "You are small for a female", she said, running a taloned thumb along her scar.
"When is the council meeting?" Sodan interrupted, knowing what his children had yet to face.
"Upon the second sun's rise, but it is only this one to stand in judgement." Nee'Va said, still with her hand on Xhara's face.
"But there's three of us?" Yo'Shuk stepped in, gaining his grandmother's attention.
"Yes, but it is this one with the most powerful mind. The council wishes to test her strength." Xhara had never lost the butterflies in her stomach, and now they fluttered in a great torrent of facing the Elders alone.
-Relax, we can still speak to each other- Yo'Shuk sent the thought with a silent smile, Nee'Va stared towards him with her fierce green gaze.
"You will not be allowed contact, this is only Xhara's test". She turned her eyes back to her granddaughter.
-You may rest now- She sent in soft tones.
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When they awoke, the Michaels children wasted no time raiding Nee'Va's elaborate 'ponics garden, the native fruit being surprisingly ripe and juicy. Immediately after their breakfast, Nee'Va took her relatives to the Council Hall while the three others remained behind in anticipation. They chose to walk to allow the hybrids a little time to get to know their surroundings. This time there was no armor to hide their different facial features, and this time they earned several stares.
The Council Hall was huge and with the size several Yautja filled inside, all eager to catch a glimpse of Ne'Sodan's strange hybrid offspring. As soon as they reached the entrance Nee'Va and Xhara separated from the males, Xhara's brothers wishing her luck. Xhara had no idea what to expect, Nee'Va quietly led her into a smaller room where two other females assisted her down dressed in her underclothing.
"I thought I was meeting the council Elders?" Xhara asked, confused as Nee'Va turned to lead her granddaughter out of the room.
"You are", she said simply, taking Xhara's arm with a firm grip and leading her into the lower floor of the Hall. Xhara looked up to see a thick crowd peering through what appeared to her as a glass casing wall, the floor in which she stood covered in a thin pile of sand. Nee'Va released Xhara's arm, motioning for the hybrid to stay put and left the circular pit, the sound of the door sliding shut. Xhara frantically looked around in a panic, standing alone and half naked as though she was on display.
Nee'Va headed up to the higher level to stand next to her son, who also looked around in confusion.
"What are you planning, Elder Mother?" He asked, Thian and Yo'Shuk worriedly peering down at their sister.
"Quiet now, I am only giving the council what they want...a chance to see what the hybrid is capable of", she turned to nod to another, her massive form easily towering over the others. Suddenly a door opened in the pit, two large black beings cautiously entering.
"What in Paya's name?" Thian angrily questioned, nearly trying to contact his sister, but a strong mental block stopped him.
"A new breed", Nee'Va explained, watching Xhara back up from the two menacing xenomorphs. "Stronger, larger and faster...the council has been bitter against letting your hybrids live, Ne'Sodan, I am striking against the ancient law". Nee'Va spoke with a fierce anger, not directed towards her son, but towards those still prejudice against his human lifemate.
Xhara wasn't scared of the obviously enhanced creatures circling her, drooling of hunger. She was instead angry at being used as a means of entertainment. She tried to feel her brother's presence, but found nothing. She knew it was her telekinetic power they wanted to see, and knew that her grandmother had purposefully planned the event.
One of the xenomorphs took first charge and pounced at the hybrid, Xhara fell back but managed to push the massive form off of her. The other creature took the opening and scratched at her flailing legs.
"This would be a stupid way to die", she growled out through gritted teeth and searched for her rare power, using it to push the xenomorph off her so she could stand back up. Backing away quickly she remembered the incident on the ship. It was quite a difference between one midget xeno and two full-grown warriors, but she had no choice but to strike out as soon as possible.
Closing her eyes she could feel the two menacing bodies approach once more, clenching her fists she envisioned an invisible wall forming a protective bubble around her body. It worked, but she knew she's have to work up her emotions in order to kill them.
Xhara smirked, they wanted a show, she'd give them something to remember. Letting out a roar of fury, she lifted her arms as the xenomorphs rose off the sandy floor. Yautja backed away from the glass wall as she spread her hands wide, causing the black creatures to explode, their acidic blood spraying the glass and burning right through it.
Loud noise of surprise flooded the hall, in the pit Xhara collapsed from exhaustion. Nee'Va couldn't help but remain in silent pride.
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Xhara's eyes slowly opened, she couldn't see anything but a pinkish color and as she became more aware she could feel a thick warm liquid surrounding her body. Eyes opening wide she felt needles protruding from parts of her body and in a moment of panic she caused her surroundings to burst. Xhara collapsed to the bottom of some sort of tank, the liquid running over the broken glass. She tore the breathing mask from her face and ripped out the intervenes.
"Don't struggle!" A female Yautja rushed to Xhara's side, helping the hybrid to her feet. Looking around herself, she guessed she was in some sort of medical lab, and she had been inside a cylinder-shaped tank. She rubbed off some of the syrupy liquid, looking up at the Yautja.
"What was that?" She couldn't help but ask in an irritated voice. The Yautja picked up some of the damaged equipment.
"Embryonic fluid. It helps you rejuvenate, you collapsed after burning out your mind. A most impressive display, Xhara".
"You know me?" Xhara felt immediately sorry for her initial reaction.
"I am Aki, of Elder Nee'Va's clan. I knew your mother, Lo'Sha." Xhara recognized the name from some of Lionasha's stories, she knew this Yautja was quite intelligent.
"You two were-friends-" she had to substitute the English version of the word since she didn't know the proper translation. Aki looked at her in confusion.
"Frrr...end?" She tried.
"You two were close?" Xhara offered, still trying to clean herself off.
"Yes, we were close. Elder Nee'Va did not wish to mock you. It is now in my interest to try and create the mind-shield you used". Xhara stood and watched as Aki fiddled with equipment.
"Shield?" Aki nodded, clicking her mandibles in excitement.
"It would be useful, you spared your body from the kainde amehda blood by creating your shield." Xhara inspected her own body to confirm what the scientist had said and saw that it was true. "I would take you to Elder Nee'Va's dwelling now?" She suggested. Xhara's grumbling stomach readily agreed.
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James Kincaid put his feet up onto the cafeteria table in front of him, lighting a cigarette, his lunch sprawled out before him. It was lunch time for the construction workers at Michaels/Woods Salvage Corp. In a ship yard along the New York coastline one particular shipping yard was owned by 38-year-old Lionasha Michaels and her partner, former-adventurer Alexa Woods. It had been running for fourteen years now steadily and Kincaid had been an employee since the beginning. It was a scrap-yard for the most part, they bought pieces of junk and salvaged the material for cheap prices.
Kincaid's lips curled into an amused smile, he scratched his unshaved face and watched the newest employee look around stupidly for a place to sit. Out of a need for entertainment, Kincaid kicked the chair next to him to gain the young man's attention.
"Hey, new guy, sit here", the young man's face flooded with relief as he sat himself across from Kincaid. While Kincaid had dark unruly hair and lazily kept his looks, the one sitting across from him was both blond and clean-shaven. 'He'll learn', Kincaid mused to himself.
"Thanks, I haven't had a chance to meet everyone yet". He pulled out a salad from his own bag lunch.
"People have to trust you first. Lio's whole being sworn to secrecy rule and all...so what's your name kid?" The young man smiled and held out his hand.
"Alan Crothers", he said, wiping his hand off after receiving Kincaid's oily handshake.
"Nice to meet you. So did Lio interview you herself?" Alan nodded as he took a bite of his lunch. Kincaid leaned closely towards Alan as to keep quiet. "Just a tip from one guy to another, do yourself a favor and never, never try and hit on Lio. She's taken." Alan stared towards his coworker with confusion written all over his features. "Didn't you notice that some of her own kids work for her?" And as if on cue Av'Lea sauntered by carrying some files, having spent the day helping out Lex, Lionasha at home sick. Av'Lea winked at Kincaid, he gave a goofy smile back.
"How many does she have?"
"Eight, I believe, and the oldest ones could kill ya just by looking at ya". Kincaid continued to stare after the hybrid girl that headed into the office.
"But she's not married?" Alan wondered, momentarily forgetting the salad in front of him which was wilting from the heat.
"Nope, not her guy's thing, I've seen the guy twice. Makes you wonder what the ladies see in -his-type." Alan continued to have a blank look as though his I.Q. was quickly dropping. Kincaid let out a very loud sigh. "You'll see, like I said, people have to get to know you a little better."
"Kincaid, if you don't stop with the intimidation, I'll have to kick you", Lex dropped a small folder in front of Alan and gave a menacing look at her employee.
"Whatever floats your boat, babe", Kincaid answered smartly back, admiring the fact that he worked for two very good looking ladies.
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Lionasha was busy preparing that evening's meal in the kitchen when she heard Lex let herself into the apartment. She quickly wiped her eyes as to not alert the other woman of her emotional distress. Lex wasn't fooled, however, as she made her way into the kitchen and sat herself down at the table. Lionasha offered coffee and sat opposite, one avoiding catching the eye of the other. Av'Lea sauntered into the kitchen for a snack before she put the finishing touches on her appearance, zipping up her knee boots (which would be thigh boots for anyone of human height), she made sure her dew claws comfortably slip through the holes on the sides of the boots. Lex nodded towards Av'Lea.
"Another date tonight?" She asked, Av'Lea smiled brightly towards her mother's best friend.
"Yup".
"Is it that Kincaid fellow again?" Lex continued, Av'Lea continued to smile.
"Mhm", she pulled the lipstick from her little purse and touched up her thin lips.
"Isn't he a little old for you?" Lex leaned back into her chair and took a sip of her coffee, this time Av'Lea frowned.
"I don't think so", she said, and waved as she left the kitchen. Lex returned her attention to Lionasha, who was still staring down at her full cup.
"Spill it, Lio, what's wrong with you?" Lionasha sighed. "Still missing the kids? They'll be back before you know it", Lionasha sniffled, Lex frowned, and took another sip from her cup. "C'mon, Lio, things could be worse, you could be pregnant again", Lex's joke was not received well, Lionasha proceeded to burst into tears. Lex stared for a long moment. "No way", she said, Lionasha blinked and looked at her best friend, nodding slightly.
"Didn't you notice I was getting fat again? I can't have another one, I'm too old!" Lionasha said between sobs, Lex felt rather sheepish, but she stood and moved towards her friend and wrapped her arms around the other woman's shoulders.
"When did this happen? His last visit I suppose?" Lionasha offered another nod, as Lex placed her chin on her friend's forehead. "Oh well, everyone loves a baby".
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Past....
Lionasha stood at the doorway of her room, watching the drizzle in the gloomy morning. She glanced towards the sleeping infant curled up on her bed, its tiny form seemingly normal, but if someone were to look closer, they'd notice the odd appearance of the baby. The child's skull was unusually large with a high forehead, his jaw was split at the chin and the face was void of hair. His skin was mottled with dark spots and his feet had dew claws. 'Thian' had been the name of choice, a Yautja word that Lionasha had always liked hearing Sodan say.
Thian stirred from his nap, causing Lionasha to move towards the bed and check her child's condition. It had been nearly three months since the delivery, but she was still fatigued after the violent trauma her body had gone through. She sat on the edge of the bed and stroked Thian's face with a tender caress, she didn't bother to look up when she heard footsteps in the doorway.
"I've waited for you", Lionasha said softly, Sodan leaned on the door frame and watched her quietly, Lionasha blinked back tears and looked towards him. "How did you know?" Sodan remained silent a little longer before entering the room and seeing his son through the expressionless mask.
Removing the mask, Sodan took Thian into his large hands to inspect the baby. Thian stared blankly at his father and didn't bother to make any noise.
-That's strange, he usually cries when someone picks him up-
-Cry?- Finally Sodan spoke and with his sent thought he handed the infant back to Lionasha who blinked at his response.
-You know when water comes out of your eyes when you're upset?- the couple looked at each other as though neither understood, after a moment Sodan chose to comment.
-That's Ooman, not Yautja-
"Oh", Lionasha felt about three inches high just then, but she was glad for Sodan's presence, "you still didn't answer my question", she added, looking intently into his yellow-green eyes. -How did you know?-
-My half-brother was on Earth at the time of the suckling's birth. The suckling has strong mental presence already- Lionasha smiled at the compliment, trying to lull Thian back to sleep.
-I'll have to thank your brother- Lionasha said while depositing the infant back on the bed, Sodan gave a soft growl.
-You will not- He replied, turning to leave the room.
-Why not?- Lionasha shot back, looking up to see his retreating form, Sodan stopped just outside the doorway.
-He died on that hunt, Lo'Sha. Speak no more now, I will return- Sodan left Lionasha alone to feel instantly sorry she had brought up the subject of his half-brother, even though she hadn't known any better.
Later Sodan returned and made a seat for himself on the floor while Lionasha tended to the baby's needs. Once she deposited the infant on the bed, she sat on the floor herself across from him and waited to speak. She placed her hands in her lap and looked away for a second.
-I'm sorry about your brother- She send the thought with a soft sincerity, Sodan leaned back against the wall in a very casual manner.
-Why? What did you do to him?- Lionasha narrowed her eyes towards the Yautja, she seemingly kept forgetting he wasn't at all human.
-Nothing, I'm just offering my respect- She answered, Sodan still appeared disinterested..
-Yo'Shuk died with honor, he had survived longer than the others- Lionasha received another lesson about the Yautja just then, she made a mental note that Yautja viewed death differently. Sodan stretched his arms and folded his hands behind his head. -He even lived long enough to blood an Ooman, who it seems had hunted along side of him- As Sodan predicted, his comment had caught Lionasha's interest.
-Really? What happened to the human?- She asked, in hopes of meeting such a person.
-I don't know, she lived. Yo'Shuk's clan left her there, alive-
"Oh, I must meet her!" Lionasha couldn't help but exclaim out loud. Sodan gave a response similar to a grunt.
Sodan chose to remain for a while as the days passed, and Lionasha continued to recover, his presence noticeably helped as she couldn't stand to not be near him. Lionasha attempted to introduce the father of her child to Mingh, but the older woman had frozen in place in his presence, it had been a short introduction.
Lionasha sat in the back of the classroom, her chin resting on her knuckle as she watched Anna teaching children the English alphabet. She had no idea where Sodan had gone off to that morning. Anna wrote a couple three letter words up on the blackboard, pointing to each one in turn and slowly sounding them out. Normally, Lionasha would be eating her lunch, but an upset stomach prevented her from doing so.
A sudden crack caused Lionasha to turn her head towards the wall, everyone else oblivious to the sound. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and so she resumed her position of boredom.
In a split-second time, the worn-out wood of the school-room gave out and collapsed over them. Children screamed in terror, the weight of the roof too heavy for Lionasha to push up enough to free herself.
-Sodan?!- She desperately searched for his mind, she not used to needing the skill for awhile.
Bright sunlight obscured Lionasha's vision, the piece of collapsed roof seemed to magically begin to hover above them, she jumped at her chance to grab the nearest child and carry him out to safety. The child stared at their savior in wonder, Lionasha hurriedly ran back underneath to help the other children. Anna's mind was numbly working, she pushed the remaining children out of the way before Sodan dropped the mass of wood.
The children stared with their mouths hung open, their infamous demon had delivered them once again, he, however was only concerned that his mate was unharmed at the moment.
"Lio...?" Anna questioned, frightened. Lionasha didn't have time to respond before Mingh rushed out, babbling incoherently. Lionasha quickly grabbed onto Sodan's arm to lead him away before Anna let out a scream of terror.
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Mingh tapped her fingers impatiently on her desk, several papers strewn out in front of her. She was a little angry to say the lest, Lionasha, -her- Lionasha was pregnant again. The Cambodian woman had finally met the infamous Sodan, her initial reaction was naturally being scared to death of him, but she had seen him as a typical male when Lionasha acted as though she had met her soul mate. Mingh wasn't fooled, however, she took a deep breath and prepared to talk with Sodan, face to face.
Sodan spent half of his time with Lionasha and the other hunting and although he himself required feeding only once every few days, he often brought back meat for those at camp. Those at the camp, mainly the children warmed right up to Sodan, seeing him as their protector. Mingh's main assistant, Anna, would avoid encounters at all coast, since she was weak-hearted.
Mingh found her target busying himself in the newly repaired children's room, he didn't bother to acknowledge her presence. Mingh stood and crossed her arms over her chest, she waited silently for Sodan to finish what he was doing.
"I suppose you know, don't you?" She questioned impatiently, Sodan ignored her. Mingh was angry and was determined to make her point despite being scared to death of the massive figure in front of her. "I don't know if you care or not, but Lio's body isn't ready for another baby." She was sure he understood English, Lionasha spoke with him all the time and he always seemed to understand. Taking a deep breath, she tried again. "Do you hear me? If she doesn't get proper medical attention, she's going to die!" Sodan spun on his heel and grabbed Mingh's face, pushing her back against the wall. She struggled madly, trying to scream, but her voice was muffled.
Lionasha had heard the commotion and rushed into the room, pushing Sodan's arm away.
"Sodan, don't!" Mingh rubbed the feeling back into her face, too terrified to move from her spot. Sodan took Lionasha's face in his hands, moving it, trying to determine what was wrong. He couldn't see the sickly pale color her skin had taken.
-You are ill, Lo'Sha?- He had heard every word Mingh has said, but he would hear none of her insults.
-Mingh wants to take me back to America- Lionasha answered, their conversation only between them, Sodan made a soft grunt.
-You need Yautja care, Lo'Sha, I will take you with me- It was not a request, he had already planned it and Lionasha silently agreed.
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Normally, when someone went on a trip, you would pack your bags and make sure your affairs were in order. Lionasha had no possessions or any affairs, only the clothes on her back. Mingh cried when she learned Lionasha was leaving, happy only that she would be receiving proper treatment, but feared she would never see the younger woman again.
Lionasha followed Sodan through the jungle on a familiar route, Thian held tightly in her arms, they were heading towards the river where they went swimming together. Sodan flipped open his arm computer, pushing a couple buttons and in the distance, Lionasha could hear a loud bubbling noise.
"No shit", Lionasha stopped in her tracks when they reached the riverbank, Sodan's ship hovering over to its watery bed. She was quick to follow, getting inside and looking around with wide eyes. She jumped when she heard the hatch close behind her and heard the air pressure change. Sodan removed his mask, pushing a few more buttons on the panel in front of him, suddenly the temperature heated up and Lionasha took a whiff if something new. "Oh-that's nice", she felt her eyes droop slightly, her churning stomach settled down.
-This is much like the Homeworld, the gasses are different than this planet- He explained while heading into the control room. -You need to strap in- Lionasha hurriedly obeyed, Thian having gone off to sleep in her arms. The ship lifted off and Lionasha watched out the view-window as though she were in an airplane, she wasn't prepared for the sight from space.
Sodan gave her a quick tour of the ship, explaining it was smaller than most because he hunted alone.
-You will need to learn our language- He added, knowing it was insulting to address another using mind-speech. He opened the panel-door into the hydropoinics room, while small, it was a delight for the human. Sodan selected a smaller fruit and handed it to his mate. Lionasha rose an eyebrow at it before accepting the offering and quickly popping it into her mouth. She was pleasantly surprised by a sweet burst of juice, savoring the flavor.
In the days to follow, they spent most of their time together in that room, Sodan taught his native tongue while she found it hard on her throat to sound out the words. Thian enjoyed the garden as well, already learning to stand up even though it was unusual for human toddlers to learn that fast. Once Lionasha had tried to explain human views of "mating", but Sodan didn't understand why people mated without wanting to reproduce. After her next lesson she had requested to know about the law they had broken.
"Mother Nee'Va told me once", he had said, in his language as to get Lionasha used to it. They slept in the hydroponics garden together most times, they were resting there now. "It was so many Turns ago...the Ooman female was in service to the Ooman Elder." Lionasha was resting on her side, continuing to secretly grow more ill as the child grew inside of her. She smiled.
"Do you know what her name was?" She asked, Sodan was looking up, sprawled on his back.
"Mother Nee'Va called her 'Zipporah', it means 'ill-fated one'. To the Oomans, she was attractive, she was beaten to have her face disfigured. Eventually she was of no more use to her Elder Ooman, he had taken to his 'god', a Yautja Elder as a sacrifice. The Elder did not wish to use her for that purpose, instead he kept her for his own servant. Soon the Elder desired the female, and she him, she pledged her life to him. Willingly giving herself, the Ooman female was filled with suckling, not knowing that was possible. In fear she fled the city and hid among common Oomans. She died giving birth, the suckling raised by the care givers. It grew quickly and strong, hiding his appearance and going to the city to work.
"They hybrid's care givers were questioned, Yautja sent by the Elder searching for Zipporah. The hybrid returned and thought his care givers were in danger, he used a strange power to fight against the Yautja. He was executed for the crime.
"There, the prophecy was made, that a war would rise as hybrids would become many and destroy the parent species. This angered the Elders, angered them against the Oomans whom they had taught much. Now Oomans were only seen as prey and the Yautja left, returning only for the hunt." Lionasha watched her mate with much fascination, she blinked when he finished his story.
"That's so sad..." She mumbled in English, there being no Yautja word for the emotion. "Do they teach that to all young?" She garbled in rough Yautja, Sodan hesitated for a moment.
"Not all, Mother Nee'Va says that story is kept secret from most, it is better that way", he answered.
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The Elder Nee'Va had sensed her son's presence approaching a full day before the ship neared the Homeworld's atmosphere, she had experienced a nervousness of sorts for she had also sensed the mind-presence of three others with him. She knew both her youngest offspring had been hunting on the planet famous for the soft-meat Oomans, the younger of the two had died. Her last child, a promising young warrior named 'Yo'Shuk' had taken his brother's place in a ritual hunt since Ne'Sodan was off by himself. Another reason for Nee'Va to worry was that her son, who was known to hunt alone, had others with him, alive, although she could sense the illness in the weaker mind.
Nee'Va hurried from the council hall, she being promanatly involved in all political matters which the females of the species controlled, they larger and more intelligent than the males. Nee'Va was highly respected among all, she lived nearly four hundred Turns, she had bourne many sucklings to the highest ranked warriors and her clan of female warriors were the most feared of the Central Continent. She herself had embarked on several hunts (which was uncommon for females), standing nearly eight and a half feet tall she was dangerous.
After giving birth to Yo'Shuk, Nee'Va was no longer capable of bearing sucklings, but considering her new position in the council, she doubted she would have any more desire to. Her large feet kicked up hot sand, the mid-day sun peaking, the late sun approaching the Eastern horizon. Other Yautja quickly moved out of her way in fear of being trampled, she was heading straight for the ship hangar in which her son was arriving. She waited in an unnatural anticipation as routine safety checks were being made, her mind ached from the agony the newly recognized as female mind was radiating. Nee'Va was gifted with stronger telepathy than what was usually common in Yautja, a talent she didn't share in public.
The hatch door opened slowly, steam poured from the opening as the ship de-pressurized. Nee'Va could make out her son's heat as he moved towards the opening. A small figure cowered behind him, a small bundle clutched tightly in her arms. Nee'Va felt instant dread.
As soon as Sodan opened the hatch, Lionasha felt as though an anvil dropped onto her shoulders, she buckled under the weight and clutched her son, of whom was giggling in delight. Lionasha forced her head to look up at the massive figure approaching them. She knew it was Sodan's mother, she didn't have to think twice on that one, as it was also obvious Nee'Va was not happy to see them. Sodan took hold of Lionasha's arm and supported her as they descended down the ramp, she felt sick to her stomach. Nee'Va hurriedly requestied a flitter to be used, knowing her son's human mate would not be able to walk the distance in the heavier gravity.
"Quickly", she hissed, her mandibles clicking in irritation as Sodan ushered his mate onto the flitter, "she must be seen as little as possible", Nee'Va added, darting her head around to stare down any on-lookers. Instead of driving the flitter directly to her own home, Nee'Va stopped at a large building half-way and motioned for Sodan to stay put, she roughly took Thian from Lionasha's arms and pushed the human into the building. There were a couple of large females running what appeared to Lionasha as a lab of some sort, the human had a hard time translating Nee'Va's hurried speech for herself. The two females looked at Lionasha in mild curiosity, one of them took hold of the human and led her into an adjoining room.
"Thian", she complained in protest, her escort ignored her until they were completely out of Nee'Va's sight.
"You speak language?" She asked, Lionahsa drew her attention to her escort and gulped back tears of frustration.
"A little", she answered meekly.
"Elder Nee'Va say you are clan now, you are sick and need treatment." Thankfully, the female Yautja spoke slow enough as to allow Lionasha to fully understand, "you will follow instruction without question if desire to live", Lionasha kept her mouth shut. Her escort led her towards a large glass cylinder, motioning for the human to stand in the middle. Lionasha let out a little yip of pain, looking down to see a needle being jabbed into her arm, much like an intervenes. The female Yautja knew quite well what she was doing, moving hurriedly to hook up the necessary equipment, lastly strapping a large lower face mask to the human's face. "You must not struggle, the shock will pass", she softly commented, Lionasha felt herself sweat unconsciously from fear as opposed to the heat. Leaving Lionasha standing in the cylinder, she hear a click as it sealed shut, a warm thick liquid filling quickly around her. Now she panicked but remained firmly in her place as the syrup-pinkish liquid filled the cylinder. The female Yautja watched the panel, making sure the machine was capable of supporting the smaller human, as the machine was used to much larger bodies. Lionasha wanted to holler in protest, but whatever drugs was being used on her, she felt a strong drowsiness take over her as her head lowered and she fell to sleep just as her body completely submerged into the liquid.
Aki made the final settings and turned to leave the room, Nee'Va waiting with the suckling in her arms.
"She is healing soundly now, Elder Nee'Va", Aki announced, her clan leader nodded once and handed Thian over to the other Yautja.
"Lo'Sha will not need to remain long, the suckling will need to be born much earlier than the full term allows". Aki bowed her head in response as Nee'Va turned to leave, Sodan waiting patiently for her.
They left the flitter at the lab and walked under the changing suns the rest of the way to her home. Other Yautja passing by dared not to look towards the Elder and her son as both radiated hostile thoughts even though they walked in silence.
Nee'Va pressed her thumb to the entrance panel, allowing entrance into her home, several trophies from her past decorated the interior. A small hydroponics garden near the back of the large room in which they stood. Nee'Va stood in her place, not looking directly at her son.
"It will not be long before the council will know of your...pet...and the sucklings", she spoke in a deep rumble of a voice, having aged in wisdom over time.
"I will take the matter to the council..."
"Mo. I will present your case, they will see reason with me." She turned to look down at her son who held his ground in respect. "Why?" She quietly questioned, Sodan remained quiet, "Oomans are .prey. Why is this one different? You have broken too many laws. This time it may be unforgivable." Sodan clasped his hand behind his back.
"Lo'Sha is not prey, Elder Mother, she is a warrior among Oomans". Nee'Va clicked her mandibles together in thought, she shook her head slightly.
"Yo'Shuk saw an Ooman as an equal, a female. He gave his life to protect that Ooman. His weakness brought his end." Nee'Va spoke softly now, Yo'Shuk, her youngest had remained with her the longest of all her children.
"That was his choice, Elder Mother, as this is mine. I am claiming Lo'Sha my lifemate". Nee'Va knew he intended this long before he spoke, she knew and had no choice but to allow it.
"This will cause great anger, Ne'Sodan, as this bond is not common in this society. Lo'Sha is part of my clan now, you will go. You have assigned hunts to attend to, no harm will come to her." Sodan was going to argue against following her instructions, but knew better as Nee'Va was always right.
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Nee'Va checked on her charge nearly every day after her son left the planet once again. She could see the suckling growing steadily inside Lionasha's womb and knew the birth would have to happen soon or it would be too large for natural birth. Placing one large hand on the glass cylinder she could feel the human's mind devoid of thought. The liquid holding the body in animated suspension was similar to that of what held the suckling inside it's mother's womb, forcing the body to repair itself as though it was regenerating. Only a select few of her own clan members knew about her son's lifemate, but Nee'Va knew the secret would not last long.
Nee'Va knew when Lionasha was ready to give birth. The suckling had strong mind-presence and sent it's own premature thoughts, telling it's mother's body he was ready to be born. Aki carefully reversed the cylinder's controls to slowly bring the human back into consciousness, the pinkish syrup drained, Lionasha's body sank with the liquid, she slumped to the bottom of the cylinder. Aki quickly opened the seal and unhooked Lionahsa from the machine, lightly slapping the human's face as she groggily returned to consciousness. She let out a moan of discomfort, feeling her heavy belly and trying to move her stiff limbs, still unaccustomed to the heavy gravity. Her cloudy eyes focused onto Aki, who took the human's arms and helped her to her feet, her knees immediately buckled in response.
"She will be too weak to birth the suckling", Aki explained to her Elder, Nee'Va stared intently towards Lionasha.
"She is ready", the challenge caused Lionasha to look straight towards her mate's mother, she had already convinced herself not to falter in fear. Instead she pushed herself from Aki and forced her body to stand up despite the heavy gravity. Immediately the unwanted stress caused her stomach to spasm in protest, the contractions had begun.
Lionasha was transported directly to Nee'Va's home, Aki coming along for Lionasha's assistance. The suckling was born when the smallest of the three suns rose high above the continent, Lionasha not having near as much trouble since this baby was smaller than what Thian had been. Nee'Va had remained with her charge as Aki tended to the suckling, the Elder intended to uphold the promise she had made to her son.
"I would name him Yo'Shuk", Lionasha's raspy version of the Yautja language scratched the human's voice considerably, but she had Nee'Va's attention, "with your permission." Nee'Va studied the smaller female for a few thoughtful seconds before nodding silently. Lionasha drifted off to an undisturbed sleep.
Recovery didn't take as long as the first time as well, Lionasha had her two sons to look after and that took away much of the awkwardness between the two females living there. Nee'Va taught several weaning tricks to her son's lifemate and steadily began to enjoy the smaller woman's presence. Lionasha met many of Nee'Va's clan members as they often stopped by, all of them female and all of them readily accepting the human. Nee'Va had explained to Lionasha about her belonging to a female clan, all protective of their own against rivals. One rival clan in particular often made trouble, on of their strongest members stopped by to speak to Nee'Va, in hurried speech as to ensure Lionasha did not over hear. The female was just as hostile looking as the Elder only noticeably younger and much less experienced. Nee'Va wasted no time finishing the heated conversation and sending the other away.
"She seemed angry", Lionasha commented the obvious, nursing Yo'Shuk near the 'ponics garden. Nee'Va gave her head an irritated shake.
"She is Vii'Lar, from a rival clan, she had vouched for Ne'Sodan and is pained to learn he shall take no female company but one".
"So she hates me", Lionasha stated, Nee'Va made a loud snorting noise.
"Fear not, Lo'Sha, my clan is strongest above all. I wonder if you were sent from the gods to keep my son from her. She is not an honorable one." Nee'Va was right, Lionasha felt safe in the Elder's company.
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A Yautja day lasted much longer than what Lionasha was used to, and though it was always hot and bright, dusk reigned the sky for what Lionasha estimated at around two hours each day. Once Yo'Shuk was old enough to begin eating solids, Lionasha often found herself sitting on the slanted roof of Nee'Va's home during dusk. The elder carefully instructed the human to keep off the ground as creatures that lived under the sand came up for feeding during that short time. Lionasha enjoyed watching what little wildlife this planet had, despite the harsh climate, it hadn't taken the human long to get used to it. The heavy gravity caused her body to recover in record speed from Yo'Shuk's birth, she grew muscles she never knew were there.
Nee'Va joined her on the roof after she returned from a council session, she sat her massive body down next to Lionasha's and studied the sky.
"I wish you could see what I see", the human quietly commented, an aqua-colored cloud spread out against the dark hue of the sky, she watched in awe.
"Lo'Sha, you will be assigned to hunt kainde ameheda. You must prove yourself warrior". Nee'Va continued to look out on the land, Lionasha sighed.
"Sodan told me this would happen."
"I have no doubt you will earn your mark, what I am not sure about is who you are going with. They are sending another female, you have seen Vii'Lar, she has requested the hunt since she is unblooded." Lionasha looked towards the Elder in confusion.
"I thought she was a fierce warrior?" Nee'Va nodded slowly.
"Yes, she has a strong bloodline. She has never left the Homeworld to hunt, that is uncommon for females. I am aware of her content for you, Lo'Sha". The glow of the first sun began touching the land as the night crawlers retreated underground, heat quickly rose.
"I don't know how to hunt your way, Elder Nee'Va, how could I survive?" Nee'Va was ready with an answer, she turned her green eyes towards Lionasha.
"You will learn from me and follow every instruction."
Aki came for Lionasha after the human rested for a few hours, the two headed out to their clan training ground where others were mock-sparring. They stopped when Aki and Lionasha approached, all females. Aki gave a brief explanation and the others were quick to all make suggestions at once.
"All of us wish the great Paya would strike down upon Vii'Lar, she is much to prideful of herself", one of the shorter females commented, "I pray the council will look kindly upon you", she added more quietly. Aki took Lionasha for a run on the rough landscape, a combination of the heat and what she had last eaten caused the human to buckle over and regurgitate the contents of her stomach. Aki couldn't help but be amused.
"You must learn to eat the same time as us. Feeding should be spaced out, yaazii flesh is best for training." The creature Aki referred to reminded Lionasha of a cow with several eyes and six legs, it was an acquired taste. Simple exercises left the human quite sore by the end of the session, she had no trouble falling asleep.
As Lionasha improved, the other clan members became involved and readily volunteered to begin her sparring lessons. Nee'Va often made and effort to break from her council duties to assist teaching, she easily stood out in the group with her greying dread locks and massive form. It was half a Turn since the human's arrival when the hunt was to e done. Her crew consisted of four males and three females including herself and Vii'Lar.
Nee'Va accompanied her to the docking bay, Vii'Lar shot the Elder a menacing look, even though Nee'Va was unfazed by it. She stopped Lionasha and handed her a retracting spear.
"This was mine, it is better crafted than most. Paya will keep you safe, Lo'Sha. Do not let Vii'Lar anger you, when one is angry they fall into error." Lionasha took the offering and bowed her head in respect.
"I will bring you honor, Elder Nee'Va", the Elder placed her hand on the human's shoulder before turning to leave.
Lionasha clutched the spear tightly and walked towards the ship as the others boarded. Strapping in, the ship took flight.
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Their destination was not far, but the trip lasted long enough for Lionasha to get to know her hunting mates, everyone with the exception of Vii'Lar, who kept off to herself with her weapons. The one other female was considered young, but she was rather large and pushy, continuously making snide remarks to the rowdy males of the group. For the most part, everyone ignored her, leaving her out of their silly arguments. The leader of the group, a well-experienced male, glanced several times towards her.
His name was difficult for Lionasha to pronounce, it contained several syllables thus she resulted in merely to call him 'Clan Leader' when she addressed him. She slowly dressed in the provided equipment, her clothing consisted of a tight leather-like material wrapped around her breasts and a long dress-like loin cloth, the traditional dress of female Yautja. Her armor was simple, none of her current clan members wielded plasma cannons, considering this hunt was more training than anything.
The selected planet was a controlled climate, much like what was ideal for farming. Lionasha listened as carefully as she could to their Clan Leader's instructions. To him, this hunt was a simple affair, but to the lone human, it meant much more to her. The group left the safety of the ship, radiating excitement, Lionasha stood closely to the other female Yautja of the group, she ignored the human and continued on her way. Studying Nee'Va's spear to remember how to work it, Lionasha left the area to begin her own hunt, none of the others bothered to offer their companionship.
Looking around, she could see no visible life, her smaller mask showing everything as though she had infrared vision. After a few minutes wandering around and getting frustrated with the limitations of the mask, she slowly began removing it, not knowing whether the air was safe or not. Experimenting with a few deep breaths, she clipped the mask to her belt and ventured into the lush forest.
She tired out quickly having eaten nothing since leaving, seeing a low branch nearby, Lionasha hoisted herself up to sit for a while, careful to remain alert.
Freezing in her place, another moved close to her tree, looking down she saw the black creature and automatically assumed that was what she was after. Peering closer, the furry creature lay down at the trunk of her tree. It appeared to be falling asleep, Lionasha dropped off her branch and saw the creature wasn't kainde amehda at all. It looked up at her with beady white eyes and had labored breathing. It was suffering. Lionasha had no idea of how to help it, it began convulsing.
"Oh shit!" She hollered when a little serpent-like creature broke out of the chest cavity. Lionasha ran from the tree deeper into the trees, she stopped momentarily to catch her breath. Looking at her surroundings, it felt as though she were back in the Cambodian Jungle and suddenly felt confident.
Extending the spear she took a few practice swings to get used to it. The spear was light, the alloy virtually weightless, and hearing a noise behind her she swung it with her body as though she were an expert.
The xenomorph had followed her, and was ready to pounce, unfortunately for it, she was faster. Battling skilled human men on Earth, this was not new to Lionasha, the sparring match carried on as the xenomorph refused to slow down at all. It leapt for her using the most height it could muster, Lionasha pushed the spear upright, bringing it straight through its throat.
"You took my kill!" Vii'Lar's baritone voice vibrated though Lionasha's ears, looking up, the Yautja moved into her view.
"What?" Lionasha lifted her partially corroded spear and faced the angry female. Vii'Lar growled again and readied her own spear.
The next second Lionasha felt her legs buckle, a xenomorph pushing her to the ground. Vii'Lar stood and did nothing, she watched the human struggle, her body heat rising with growing alarm. Lionasha managed to free herself before her head became lunch without having the mask on to protect her. Desperately grabbing for her knife, she shoved it as hard as possible into the xeno's elongated head, spattering acidic blood onto her chest armor, the knife melting into nothing. She tore her armor off before the blood could burn down to her skin.
Heaving, trying to retain her sanity, Lionasha stared daggers towards the spectating Yautja in anger. Vii'Lar's emotionless mask gave away no emotion at all.
"You wanted me dead", Lionasha spat out, Vii'Lar made a grunting noise.
"You brought this on yourself, Ooman", she hissed back, "Ne'Sodan was mine, you are not worthy". Remembering Nee'Va's words, Lionasha quickly removed herself out of the line of fire as Vii'Lar charged at her. Considering the Yautja's large size, she moved quickly and easily chased after the human.
This chase was strange for Lionasha, she didn't have the advantage of traps and knowing the area. In her haste, she desperately tried to form a plan, but her mind became blank.
Reaching a clearing, she spotted the river and held tightly to her damaged spear as she dove into the deep, cold water. Vii'Lar was quick to chase, also able to swim well, Lionasha frantically pushed herself through the water, reaching the other side in record time. Her legs aching from exertion, she tripped climbing out of the water, covering her body in heavy clay. Finding her balance, Lionasha hurried into the trees and climbed the nearest one.
Vii'Lar was more careful about getting back onto land, looking around for her new prey.
"Do not hide from me, Ooman!" Vii'Lar bellowed, waving her spear around madly. Lionasha tried her best to slow down her breathing and calm herself, she watched Vii'Lar with wide eyes, waiting for her chance to strike. She realized then, that the Yautja couldn't see her heat. She smirked.
"Vii'Lar, you bitch!" Lionasha yelled out in English, the taunt worked. Vii'Lar approached her tree and Lionasha readied the good end of Nee'Va's spear, dropping from the branch and impaling the Yautja's chest. Vii'Lar roared in agony, struggling to remove the spear, Lionasha took Vii'Lar's own spear from the ground and quickly shoved the end into the Yautja's throat. The large body collapsed lifeless to the ground, Lionasha sank to her knees and silently cried.
It was nearly an hour later before the others found her lying next to Vii'Lar's dead body. Flourescent green blood pooled around them. The hunt was over, the Clan Leader took Lionasha's arm and pulled her to her feet. The human remained silent, but broadcasted what had happened with her mind.
"Vii'Lar was dishonorable", he said, picking up the female Yautja's spear, retracting it, and handed it to Lionasha. "This is yours now, Lo'Sha". The other Yautja looked on her with a new respect, the little Ooman had proved herself.
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Sodan returned when dusk began to fade with the first sun, he quickly returned to his Elder Mother's home, eager to see his lifemate. He had been gone nearby a full Turn since he had first brought his human home.
Nee'Va was sitting near the 'ponics garden with Yo'Shuk in her arms, Thian todding around, making noises of amusement. She didn't bother acknowledging her son's presence, she had already known he had arrived.
"She is outside", Nee'Va said, knowing already what was on his mind. Sodan removed his armor and headed out the back where his mate was standing with her back against the wall.
"I killed for you", Lionasha's words were slow and calm, her Yautja noticeably better pronounced. She drew two spears from leather strapping on her back, extended them and impaled them upright in the ground. She turned her face towards Sodan and he could see the blooded mark on her cheek. Sodan took Nee'Va's spear and admired the careful craftsmanship used to restore it, Lionasha was watching him carefully and when he jabbed the spear towards her, she caught it with her right hand effortlessly, her eyes never blinking. She watched his hand loosen momentarily and seeing her advantage, Lionasha pushed the spear to trip Sodan, he fell onto his back. Lionasha pounced, straddling her mate and resting her arms on his chest.
"You have learned well", he spoke, the first time she had heard his deep rumble of a voice since he left.
"Elder Nee'Va is a skilled teacher", she answered. Sodan took firm hold of her bottom and moved to pin the human underneath of him, Lionasha quickly pushed him off and moved to escape. Sodan grabbed her leg, halting her and brought her to straddle him again, this time he sat up, making sure she couldn't escape. Lionasha gulped in lung fulls of air, catching her breath, her eyes watery. Sodan removed a string of jewels from his wrist and drew it around her neck. A beautifully crafted necklace. "Chrysoberyls", she whispered, touching the offering with trembling fingers. Nee'Va had taught her that these rare jewels were used to power their wireless plasma cannons, an ingenious power source.
"You are my lifemate, Lo'Sha, you belong only to me", Lionasha closed her eyes and pressed herself against him, he rested his chin on her head.
-Only you- She sent the thought, feeling the impact of his claim with a silent overwhelming emotions. Sodan held onto her body tightly, turning her so he was pinning her to the ground, he had missed her as much as she him. He carefully wiped the moisture from her face, holing her close and lightly purring.
-You are sad again?- He asked with thought.
-No...this time, it means I'm happy-
-Strange Ooman emotions...-
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Nee'Va was waiting for them when they came back inside, she was still watching the two little hybrids and ignored their presence for the most part, until she decided to speak.
"The Council wishes for Yo'Shuk's Ooman to be brought here", she said, her attention remaining on the little Yo'Shuk. "You are being sent to -Earth- to retrieve her. You and selected others." Sodan and Lionasha stood in their spots, digesting the news. Nee'Va turned her head to look at Lionasha with wise green eyes. "I have requested Aki to be assigned." Lionasha brought her hands to her currently empty belly and understood why.
XXXX As an apology for being so tardy, here's a little treat for those Scar, Lex fans out there!! AVP on DVD in seven days!! W00T!!