Chapter 15
Umi opened her eyes to realize that it was not yet dawn on Cephiro. She and Tatra had arrived during midnight and had been warmly welcomed. Although Ferio quickly dispatched them to their respective rooms to rest after the long and heavy journey. That did not stop the princess from catching up on the situation of her people in Cephiro and in his native home Chizeta by mouth of his cousin and Varda, whom gave her a quick summary and promised a more detailed explanation on the following day. That seemed to leave both the future sovereign and the young blue haired woman satisfied, whom while informing Hikaru and Fuu about the improvement of Eagle, paid attention to everything said in between while both were escorted their bedrooms.
She could not be sure about her friend chizetan, but hers had at least been a calm and replenishing rest despite the few hours of sleep. He thought for a moment of going back to sleep, but after realizing that she didn't have even a hint of sleep that would have been impossible to do, so she chose to get up and get dressed. It was still early, but if she remembered the habits of a certain high sorcerer, it was more likely that He was in his office, occupied by ancient parchments or simply enjoying a bit of tranquility and the company of a good book. If what she wanted was to have a serious conversation with him, without pressure or interruptions that was definitely the moment. As good Ryuuzaky, she was not someone who would take the passive alternative when her interests were at stake.
She leaned in the window and took a deep breath to give herself courage. The fresh air filled her lungs and if this did not inspire courage on her, at least if it gave her peace of mind. After that, she closed the window and while she was doing so, her eyesight landed on a certain communicator that managed to tear a small smile from her. With the window already closed, she walked to the dressing table where she had left the device and touched it lightly with the tip of the fingers. It was incredible that something so small was capable of giving her a feeling of reassurance. She could almost feel a certain commander infusing her encouragement. Later she would talk to him. Regardless of the result, she was not going to leave him out of that business, not when he had supported her so.
It was with those last thoughts that she left her room to go to where she was more than sure that she would find Guru Clef. Indeed there he was, installed on his desk behind a thick pile of manuscripts that would have easily hidden him if not for the pen that he was using in that moment and that came over tower of documents in a busy dance.
- So early and already on your feet Umi? - His voice came from behind the wall of ancient texts.
-Yes, just as you, I see - she said as she approached.
-The force of habit – he replied while ending at that moment some strange annotations at the end of a parchment particularly delicate. As soon as she saw it, Umi calculated that this should have no less than about two thousand years old, judging by its brittle appearance and its opaque color - Problems with sleep? - He asked after cleaning the pen and leave it next to the inkpot - I do not think so, your energy does not present disturbances. - He turned his chair to finally facing her.
-No, it is not that - she began to respond - maybe the Autozam time change to here ... the fact is that I am not sleepy and I did not see the point to continue stuck in bed.
-I see.
-What was that you were doing? It looked like that parchment was going to disintegrate at any second.
-It is an ancient manuscript...
-I could tell
- ... created by the sixteenth pillar - he kept his face serious not without great effort really - to help decipher magical encrypted keys - this, like the sorcerer very well noticed, caught the attention of Umi, who came even closer to desk to look more closely at the document – I suppose you can imagine why I'm using it.
-To decode Yasha's writings - she answered without taking his eyes off the fragile paper.
- I already wrote in it those passages of his diary that are not in common language, and some of the predictions that Prince Alcar and Varda considered relevant the parchment will analyze all the common patterns and relations that find. I trust that it will help us with the difficulties of Chizeta - he saw her nod - And now ... - He spoke again and made sure the tone of his voice called the young woman's attention - although it is true that you care a lot about the chizetan people, I am sure that was not the reason that brought you here. The lack of sleep was not everything, right Umi?
The eyes of the two met and she knew that it did not make any sense keep delaying the confession. Guru Clef knew something. Maybe he had no idea the nature of what was happening with her, but she did know that something was happening to her and by his face, he could clearly guess that he would not let her get out of there until she got rid of whatever was disturbing her. Almost as if to confirm that, the sorcerer had made a chair appear behind her and then make her move to sit down and proceed to do the same by her side.
Already seated, Umi closed her eyes and took a deep breath again -To tell you the truth, I wanted to talk to you since a while back. I just did not know how to do so… – after this, she opened her eyes and looked him – And as you can see, even now I am not sure what I will say or if I will do it well - she added while fiddling with her hands.
-Just said what you feel and the words will flow alone. It is not necessary that you worry so much for giving a good speech - he advised - Take your time, no one will interrupt us - he ended reassuringly.
And while in Cephiro a conversation started at his own pace, in Autozam, Geo gave Eagle a thick report written by Zazu about the state of the new training robots.
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-I know that you want to resume the total of your activities and normalize the matter of training as soon as possible, but you are exceeding yourself! – Spoke Geo while checking the documents that his friend and superior had already reviewed and the ones that were in front of him - You already requested to verify the defense systems of all the combat units, load the new training program to the simulators and readjust the stress sensors. Without mention that just yesterday, you reviewed all the old personnel of the fleet to send them with the doctors, psychologists and physical conditioners of the base.
-A preventative check is always good - he answered while finishing his signature on the last paper, he then leave it with the rest of the paperwork - And what said the oculist? - He looked interested at the brunette.
- What my eyes needed a little extra lubrication, but other than that, my eyesight is in perfect condition - he said with a trace of pride, but equally annoyed.
-That is good - he said smiling.
- Eagle! – exclaimed exasperated the brunette – you have been strange lately, Is there something wrong?
-Nothing is wrong my dear friend, things could not go better for me, and that is precisely why I want everything to work perfectly. I have already neglected my obligations as a commander for too long.
-Neglected?! You have not been able to take charge of the units personally because of your health, but you still left me very precise instructions regarding what had to be done during your absence and the officers who they had to carry out such tasks. Or, are you going to tell me that the weekly reports that you ask for me while you were in Cephiro, were out of pure pleasure?
Eagle laughed at that comment and after getting up he gave Geo a pat on the shoulder, still with the smile on his lips - I know you think this is too much, but I am simply catching up. All your reports remain recorded on my memory, without them I would have not been able to maintain order or done everything that so far has been completed in short time.
-Very little in my opinion - continued the tall sub-commander.
-Geo, Geo, Geo ... It seems to me my friend that the one who needs to relax is you – said seriously and critically - You saw me so bad before the coma and so delicate after it, that along with the responsibilities that I made you assume, I also gave you a good deal of worry and emotional charge. - He looked at him moved – It has been so long since you last saw me exercising my command so active it seems that you have already forgotten that this is normal.
-I know it is, but you just recovered.
-It is not like that and you know it - he patted the broad shoulder again – stop worrying, do not forget that princess Tatra authorized me to resume my usual routine, or are you going to tell me that you distrust her diagnosis?
-Of course not! - He hurried to answer - Needless to say that I have full confidence in her medical knowledge and ability
-So? Stop weakening me, Geo. Your commander's health is back and I do not plan to turn in a lazy person - he said confidently, the he returned to his previous seat in front of the desk – If it makes you feel better to know, his highness did not left me without treatment. - He winked before the slightly confused look of the tall man - Could you please pour me some hot water in my cup, please? - He said pointing to the furniture where, some cookies and different types of food had been stored along with energy drinks, and on which a water heater was.
-Hot water? He asked surprised.
-If you would be so kind.
Geo did has asked intrigued by the young man's request. It was not normal for the commander to drink hot liquids until after having finished with the tasks of the day, which usually was around six in the afternoon and it was a considerable time away, it was hardly lunch time. His curiosity increased when he saw Eagle taking out a small box of finely carved wood from one of his desk drawers.
-and that? He asked, leaving the cup in the central part of the surface of the desk, now free of papers.
-Tatra indications – the Commander answered, opening the box and taking out a handful of what looked like tea leaves to drop on the water - I must take this every day before lunch. She said this would help me to return to my normal rhythm without frights. She gave me enough for two weeks.
-I see - he replied the sub commander much more relaxed now.
When the liquid passed from the lips of his friend to the inside of his mouth, Geo almost choked with contained laughter when he saw his friend frown after drinking just a single and quick sip. It was only after the blonde man's face returned to a more relaxed feature, that the sub-commander asked suppressing all the fun in his voice. – Hot ? - After all, there was a possibility that the hot water would have hurt him.
-I wish – was the reply in a voice tone that was nothing like his and because of which the brunette was forced to take his hand to the mouth to suppress his laughter - I see you're entertained - the commander said, his voice a little firmer now.
- A little - he acknowledged with a grimace on his lips - If it tastes so bad why don't you put sugar or something to improve the taste?
Now it was Eagle's turn to smile. - Get me the sugar bowl and you will know why.
Geo, diligent as always, obeyed his superior without question. Now, when the sugar bowl was a little bit close to a handful of the tealeaves in the wooden box, this one began to glow dimly and a threatening voice, well known by both males, was
heard.
-Eagle Vision - the voice of a certain princess spoke - I think I told you that you could not mix this with anything or it will lose its effect. Bitter but effective, now, please drop that and drink it properly - and after the reprimand the voice passed with an impressive facility to an extremely sweet and playful tone - Enjoy your lunch!
Geo's laughter was quick to start. Eagle himself released a sigh. With the still good humor still the air, Geo returned both the empty cup and the sugar bowl to their place and returned joyfully to his friend. - She thought of everything, right?
-You believe so? – was the reply with a blonde eyebrow high up and fake expression of sarcasm on the face. And with that both burst out in loud laughter. - Anyway ... it will be better for us to go to the food court. You already heard, I have to enjoy my lunch - and started to make his way toward the door.
-Of course, Commander – and he opened the door for him.
Already in the food court, Eagle witnessed how Geo served a bountiful amount of meat something very similar and then proceeded to request to one of the chef to bathe his meat with a green sauce that Eagle knew it was his subordinate's favorite. On his part, he opted for a vegetable tortilla with meatballs and something very similar to slices of ham, although a little more gelatinous. In addition, as for the dessert, both decided for the chocolate mousse.
They thanked the chefs whom smiled satisfied and went with their trays to occupy their usual table. Already sat Geo saw his food with satisfaction and a face that reminded the commander of a small child contemplating a wonderful toy.
-If it was for you, It will be always the end of the month, right, my dear Geo? - He said while I saw him give the first taste of his food.
-And you do not? - He said after swallowed and after nodding in response - Look, military food is healthy, but comes rationed and the salads, the soups, proteins, oatmeal and seaweed stew from our cooks are good, but eat them every day ... You cannot deny that you also enjoy the specials meals of the end of the month.
-No - recognized – I also like the change in the menu, even if it is monthly –and after saying that he began to eat himself.
The dining room was at that moment the cheerful honeycomb so classic of the end of the military month. The voices, when it was possible to isolate a single voice from among permanent buzzing of bass and treble sounds, they felt conformed and animated. As Geo had said, none of them could complain about the ability or disposition of their chefs, whom managed to provide them with an alternative that offered all the necessary nutrients for the arduous military activity (not yet at war) and was rich in flavor. Under other conditions, maybe it would have not been so difficult to combine both properties, However with the strict (and otherwise understandable) policy of the high command regarding the meals, everything must be rationed and be rather austere in consideration to the fragile state of the autozamit nature. So having achieved that was a real gastronomic feat.
Hence, that date was so expected and received with good eyes by all staff of the militia and the chefs themselves, whom could be seen rejoicing after been able to offer a different and varied menu, even once a month. Therefore, that was seen in Geo's face, the "reward for their effort" effect had been more than achieved. Eagle himself displayed an expression of contentment in his face, which accentuated his already pleasant features. Moreover, even if Zazu was not with them at the moment, (according to the custom of the mechanic staff) Eagle knew that he must be enjoying the dishes offered that day in the dining room of the workshop base. Half-checking codes or bolting nuts, half giving a good taste to his food, he would not be exempt from that simple, but motivating pleasure.
-I suppose the bitterness has been long gone from your mouth now - Geo joked.
-Funny ...- he muttered gruffly, smiling at his friend.
-You had better try the dessert - he recommended sincerely – believe me, if this does not sweeten your mouth, nothing will.
-I believe you, if someone knows about sweets, that's you - he said jokingly
-Look who speaks, Vision! - The dark man scoffed.
-I still don't reach your level -he closed his eyes and took a spoonful of mousse to the mouth taking his time to enjoy the flavor, delicious, but not like the one Umi makes were the commander thoughts.
-And? Was it good? - The brunette asked.
Eagle cleaned himself with his napkin - You clearly know what you are talking about - to which Geo only laughed.
-Told you so… by the way - he said after enjoying the last spoonful of his dessert - Have you heard something from our dear diplomats?
-Only that they arrived safe during the night, out of that, nothing- was the apparently serene reply - but it is not weird, in Cephiro is still early morning, maybe they are still sleeping.
-Yes, the trip must have tired them- he said, looking without interest at his empty plate - Tatra will be completely dedicated to see how are the refugees of her planet plus her duties as ambassador ... I doubt she has much free time - the last one had been said more to himself than to his friend.
-And knowing Umi, she will immediately help with that and between Hikaru and Fuu they will have to beg her to relax, that is, if Paris and Guru Clef don't try it before. - He smiled as he remembered the incident from the last time.
They both knew that the two girls would have a lot to do in Cephiro and I was not strange that an official statement from Paris consisted only on telling them that both girls had arrived well. Still, both officials kept the secret hope of being contacted personally by them. Eagle had not taken off his communicator since the day Zazu gave it to him and now he had it securely in his pocket. The call would take a while, but he knew it would come.
-They will be fine - reassured - I know they will. Although if it leaves you more at ease, when the work is over, you can accompany me to see my father. If someone knows about them, is him.
-Yes, I believe I will go with you. - And added with humor - I think your father will thank me for making you sit and dine next to him.
-Hey, I am not that bad as son - he defended himself.
-No, just a workaholic.
And so they continued while they went to store the trays for return to their respective obligations. The office work had ended for the moment and now it was the turn of the physical revision on the technology and research divisions. Their scientists had been working very hard on something that, if it became real it would benefit greatly the quality of life of the autozamits, and now it was moment to present it to all the commanders. Of this demonstration depended that the project ended with good or bad recommendations to the General Wing, President Vision's right hand on the army side. Aside from the result, it would undoubtedly be ... interesting.
With all the commanders and sub-commanders gathered in the evidence room, the scientists were ready to start the test. And while the screen that would show this development was turned on and the doors of the room were closed so there would be no interruptions, in Cefiro, Alcar and Varda along with princess Tatra where found in king Ferio's quarters to discuss matters related to their people.
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They were giving her an exact account of how the chizetans were adjusting in their new home. The sun had already delivered his first rays and slowly began to shine with a more firm strength in the sky. Tatra was on her feet much more than that, eager for take advantage of every second of her stay for serving her people. She woke up almost at the same as Umi and for what his cousin and venerable counselor could see, her energy had not been affected by the trip.
The throne room was also submerged in the activity. The previous night, Ferio had already sent both, Autozam and Chizeta a brief message announcing the arrival of Princess Tatra and Umi Ryuuzaky to the planet without any troubles. With Chizeta sharing the hours of Cefiro and Autozam a few hours forward on the clock, a longer statement at that time would have resulted inappropriate. Now, with day light and with a more convenient time for the three planets, things were different. Silver was the first to be personally contacted by the king and he was pleased to hear from his own mouth that both the princess eat the water knight were fine.
-I am glad to hear they were not affected by the time change - his tone was sincere - I'm not surprised by young and active people like this two young ladies.
The rest of the conversation revolved between the following meetings between the President and the Sovereign. There were still details to tone out and without doubt the talk would have lasted much longer had it not been for the tight agenda of President Vision's and that Ferio still had to contact the Sultan Marcus.
The chizetan Sultan and his wife received with great pleasure the communication of the King of Cephiro. Neither of them seemed surprised that Tatra was not in the throne room during communication.
-Your daughter is in perfect condition and very well cared for – confirmed Ferio -In these moments she is in the company of the Alcar and Varda.
-Typical of my daughter- the sovereign was smiling - I hope that Alcar and Varda are able to keep up with her. I will contact them later on.
Right after those words were spoken, the big silver doors opened and Guru Clef came in with young blue haired woman. The two bowed respectfully towards the Sultans, whom in return smiled pleasantly and made a small nod in sign of respect. The conversation did not take long in resume after that. As usual, Umi paid attention to everything said in relation to the people of Chizeta. She knew that her parents would contact Tatra later still she wanted to go ahead with something. The situation had not improved, but at least it was somewhat stable and she supposed that her friend would be happy to know that the tremors had stopped and that the risk areas had been already evacuated.
The interaction developed normally and nobody seemed to realize that a great change had happened on the girl. She was still as energetic, inquisitive and of good spirits as always, in summary, the same her but still, something had changed. Something that would eventually lead to major changes in her life and that Guru Clef knew would contribute greatly in her personal growth. Of course, he did not allow that to be visible in his face.
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Three hours later and while Tatra was touring almost all of Cephiro in the company of Alcar, Varda, Caldina and the three knights, President Vision received his son and Geo in his office. Seeing that the demonstration had been long and exhaustive and that within three days a detailed report should be presented to the general, everyone present in the demonstration had been authorized to retire early to the barracks.
They were welcomed between jokes about Eagle and thanks to Geo for getting the "boy" to see his "poor old father," Silver manage to give the news their friends were fine and then proceeded to invite them a good cup of tea. For the oldest Vision, that was a more than well-deserved rest after the busy day he had since five o'clock in the morning. There were still some papers to review, but as they were the last of the agenda and the meetings with his son were already increasingly scarce, he decided that those papers could wait.
By the time Eagle arrived at his room he was satisfied, but tired. He loved his work, but that did not prevent him from seriously asking himself if his decision to entry the army would have been the same if, he had known before about the office schedule. Probably do not. In addition, when he had entered, he never suspected to ascend so quickly in his career. Yes, just like Zazu he had been a boy with exceptional qualities that made him graduated with honors from the academy, but even that had not prepared him to be a Commander in less than three years. The youngest commander and yet one of the most prestigious ... Not even in his wildest dreams had he seen that coming!
He closed his eyes with a playful smile on his lips, thinking about that. He was seriously thinking on going to sleep just like that when a little vibration came from the pants. Immediately he opened his eyes wide and after sitting down cross-legged on his bed, took out the communicator to answer it.
-Umi?
-Eh ... do you know anyone else who has one of these? -he did not see it, but by some reason he imagined her with a raised eyebrow.
-No - he laughed.
-Sorry for not calling before, but I have been busy and I did not know if you already had I left the office. You already left, right? -The question had a slight tone of worry and it had almost sounded like a whisper.
He thought to say "Actually I was sleeping peacefully, of course, that was until you woke me up ", but then he remembered that he could not see her face and that was not going to be fun. - Yes, I am already out - he answered instead - and let me tell you, all my body appreciates it,
-After being all the day in a military base, that does not surprise me - she replied with a chuckle.
- Are you making fun of me?
-Nooo how can you say so? I would never do that to you, Mr "I cannot be still".
-Umi ... - he threatened, although she knew he had to be laughing.
-What? Are you the only one who can make jokes?
-YES! - He answered bluntly, followed by laughter from both sides.
-Eagle - there was well concealed anxiety in her voice, but that did not stop him from distinguish
-Yes? - He asked wanting to know what was wrong.
-I ... I told him ...
He remained silent. He knew she would do it, he just wasn't expecting her to do it so quickly. Suddenly he realized that he had spent more time than recommended in silence and that she I was still waiting for an answer.
-I see ... And the result was ...?
-The one we both expected - she answered as if wasn't a big deal.
-Ah ... Are you...?
-Don't worry, I am fine - she reassured him.
-Sure? - He insisted.
-Very sure. I had not felt so free in a long, long time ... – and it was sincere.
-I am glad to hear it - he said in a soft, calm voice.
-By the way – she said after a few seconds - We were late for lunch for accompanying Tatra on her visit of the castle and the villages where her people are, so now we are settling to eat under the trees.
-Sounds perfect I envy you so -
-I am now in a nearby river, taking out a water. Do you want to talk with Hikaru or someone when I return to them?
-I would love to!
And after having talked and laughed with everyone and chare with Tatra that Geo had already mocked him for his medicine that he sent greetings (he had to help a little to that blossoming relationship at a distance), the commander said goodbye pleased to have talked with Umi. And without further ado, he settled into his bed and in the blink of an eye he was sound asleep.
TBC...