Author's Notes:

I do not own Starcraft or any of its characters.

Thanks to Warchief for beta reading.

Enjoy!

Different communication, thought patterns and sounds:

"Speaking"

'Thinking or speaking mentally'

*Sound effect*

Starcraft: A New Generation

Chapter 5: Trio of outcasts

— 24th of September, 2522—
— Location: Verion system —
— Hyperion, Bay 12 (Armory) —

It was not a beautiful view today. It could vary, depending on the missions they were doing. Sometimes a star could shine brightly far ahead, complemented by colorful nebulas in the far vicinity. Bright orange was beautiful color for a nebula, perhaps with addition of some blue and violet fields. Today was only a graveyard of wreckage, as far as the eyes could see. The mass remains of terran and protoss ships. Some floating zerg tissue as well.

He stood there, gazing over the rather sad view that met him out there. The technician suit he now wore was new, but the style was the same. Dark brown trousers and boots, with orange straps hanging from his belt, containing some equipment. Jacket that was brown over the stomach region, and orange in the shoulder height, but a white t-shirt could be seen beneath the opening at the chest level, and since the jacket didn't cover his arms, the t-shirt reached out from the armholes and were the only covers of his upper arms. A large brown worker's glove covered his right arm, while his left… was as mechanical as ever. And the goggles stayed on his head.

No, he hadn't changed that much on the outside, except for his hair and large mustache, now with more grey. And a few scars here and there. But inside he was different.

Rory Swann turned his attention from the docking port on the far side of the bay, and gave his attention to the terminal at his front. He sighed at the sight. The next project, when the time came, was a big one. It meant weeks, if not months, with the same monotone view outside the docking port. If he was lucky, it could be impressive mountains with as much clear blue sky as possible. Unfortunately shipyards weren't located on idyllic worlds.

He chuckled a bit at his own sentimentality. If anyone had told him 16 years ago that he would care so much for the view from the port, to see the wonders of space and all creation, he would probably laughed warmheartedly at whoever said it, before buying them some beer. But war does terrible things to the soul.

Many died during the Hybrid War, several of them close friends and crew that had been under his watch for years. And yet, he lived. Many times had he wished he could have done more. Many times he wished he could have given his own life for those under his care. Many times had he wept at their memory.

In many ways, Swann understood Jim more than most people. How much he must be hurting, whenever the thought crossed the man, who had led many troops during the wars. First the Raiders, then the Dominion, then forces from the entire Alliance. He won the respect of many, apparently even among some of the intelligent life forms among the zerg. Broodmothers, they were called. He had led many during their battles against Amon and his hybrids. Jim lived, while many didn't.

Did Jim ever consider himself cursed? But yet, it didn't seem to stop him. Jim always honored the memory of their fallen comrades, even before the war. Yes, he had once had a serious drinking problem, but after they saved Sarah from the monster she had becoe, Jim had laid it aside and had something to live for again. And the knowledge that he lived while others gave their lives, made him more determined to make his own actions count for it. Especially for those closest to him.

Swann would be damned if he didn't do so himself. He would not waste his life, but do his best to help others and serve the ship and his long-time friend. That was also how he began on a journey to discover new beauties he hadn't even noticed before, even if by accident. One day, during break, he had stood at the docking port, with only the force field to protect him from the vacuum of space.

It was then he noticed that one particular nebula. Bright red, covering most of the view, surrounded by dots of stars all around. Those clouds were filled the white dots even inside as well. The red color radiated a light that somehow made him feel calm. It was like it had a life of its own, it was moving around, curious of the small tiny human Swann was, and wanting to interact with him. To reach out to him, to communicate with him. Of course, he knew that thing really wasn't alive, but no one said he could not allow himself this feeling, and the awe of the view. It was simply beautiful.

Since then, the head engineer began taking more breaks where he beheld the view. Sometimes they were fantastic, sometimes they were not. He felt it soothed his weary soul, and he would behold the beautiful sights with joy and awe, whenever they were present. And he would drink a sip of his beverage to the memory of his deceased friends, who would never ever get to see these beauties.

Today was not such a day.

The entrance door towards his left opened, and presented a familiar sight. Swann grinned, as his friend and commander came walking out of the door.

"Well, look who's back!" he exclaimed in joy, swinging out his arms in greeting.

"Welcome back, cowboy," Swann said, as he and James Raynor shook hands.

"Good to see you too, Swann," Jim replied, sharing the pleasure of seeing his friend.

Raynor hadn't changed much on his appearance over the last 16 years either, except for more gray hair, and some wrinkles in his face. Those his eyes held more life than ever.

White t-shirt, black west carrying ammo and equipment, blue trousers and black combat boots, a revolver strapped to his side. Yep, he was still the same, at least on the outwards.

Swann looked in anticipation over Jim's shoulder towards the doorway he came from, to see if anyone else came following him.

"Wait, you come alone this time?" he asked, a little disheartened.

"What about your sweetheart?"

"She has other things to do, Swann. Her time has come," Jim answered, with a serious tone.

"I see," Swann nodded in understanding.

"And how's the wife holding up?" he asked, glancing down quickly on the gold ring on Raynor's finger.

"Oh, don't get me started," Jim chuckled.

"I guess she's trying her best, but I wouldn't be surprised if she felt more lonely than usual now. Not to mention very uneasy. I promised to drop by next week, can't let her be alone for too long."

Jim looked over to the console.

"So what are you up to, Swann?" he asked.

"Oh, this?" he said as he stepped over to the console.

"The Hyperion's next project. And a huge one too."

"Those are schematics of the ship's exterior," Jim realized, as he looked over the display in front of him, currently showing images of the Hyperion, one of the front, one of the underside, one of the starboard section.

"The next upgrade is going to be a big one," Swann said, as his eyes looked over the blueprints that were presented.

"She's been with us for a very long time, through many tough odds. But she's old, and if we don't upgrade her soon, we'll have to retire her and get ourselves a new cruiser, or some pirates are bound to punch through the walls like paper one day."

"I agree, Swann, that would be nasty," Jim nodded.

"Not to mention that your wife would give us hell, if you got sucked out into space," Swann grinned.

"Yeah, that too," Raynor agreed.

"But how are we going to afford this? The latest ship alloys from Dominion research is pretty expensive."

"Got it covered. You know that Matt has halved the fee to Valerian for our services the last couple of months, in trade for some additional favors?" Swann asked.

"Wait, you're saying that Junior will cover it for us?" Jim exclaimed, slightly surprised.

Swann couldn't help but grin at the words. The nickname still annoyed Valerian these days, especially if said in front of his wife and child.

"That's right, cowboy," he grinned.

"Can't wait 'till we give this girl her deserved overhaul," he added.

"Yeah. After everything the Hyperion has been through, I guess she deserves it," Raynor smiled.

"But first comes the job", he added, as he looked over the view behind the docking port.

They were both stared at the saddening sight for along moment, remaining silent.

"The Verion system… they call it the 'Verion Graveyard' now," Jim muttered.

"We lost a lot of good people that day," Swann agreed quietly.

"It's been 16 years now…" Jim said.

"And I still remember the battle like it was a week ago. Lot of casualties. Terrans, protoss, zerg…"

"You still feel sorry for those protoss from that Golden Armada?" Swann queried.

"They were slaves to Amon, don't forget that, they lost as many as we did," Jim had to remind him.

"Well, yeah, that's true," the engineer nodded, and took another sip from his cup.

"But we barely got through it ourselves, and a lot of people are still hurting today.".

"The day we stood our ground against the Golden Armada," Jim said.

"Our remaining forces, all we had, along with Umoja, the Combine, and any others."

"And a close call that one was," Swann shivered slightly.

"We were about to break apart. If that Hierarch friend of yours had been just a bit later on Aiur, none of us would be standing here today."

"And they would take Korhal next, and finish what the Mobius Corps had started," Jim summed it up.

"Still, we made it through, thanks to your protoss friend. Good guy, that one," Swann smiled.

Jim allowed himself a small grin. The surprise everyone had felt back then, when the Golden Armada suddenly turned and disappeared back into warp, towards where it came from. Followed by the huge relief by everyone who were prepared for their certain death.

Artanis had begun his fight for them, and for everyone. And he emerged victorious. Hailed as savior of the Templar, but in reality he had saved the terrans as well. Twice. It saddened Jim to this day that so few would admit it, in spite of their and Valerian's efforts.

He narrowed his eyes as he spotted an anomaly along the dark grey and gold alloys. Colored flakes. Remains of zerg carapace.

"Don't forget," Jim smirked, "if Sarah hadn't sent us reinforcements, we wouldn't have made it."

"Yeah, bleeding along with the zerg, never thought I would see it twice," Swann chuckled, remembering the moment of disbelief when seeing leviathans warping in unannounced and fight the armada alongside them.

"It was even led by one them broodmothers. Even had a name too."

"Yeah, I think you learnt it pretty well," Jim grinned fondly at a certain memory.

"Her leviathan was so damaged when the armada pulled back, that she needed evac."

"Oh, don't remind me of that again…" Swann groaned, and pinched his nose bridge.

"Kilysa was here in my hangar bay. MY hangar bay! For days! Thought I she was gonna drive me crazy!"

"Not her fault, we were the closest," Jim continued, "and she didn't have any functional leviathan to travel with. Of course her mood would be bad. But we couldn't disappoint Sarah, you know."

Swann shook his head, and tok the final sip of the cup he carried.

"By the way, did Matt fill you in?" he asked.

"He did," Jim nodded.

"Pirates have been salvaging and hiding here for years now. Recently they have become more aggressive, and have started pillaging the settlements close to this system," Jim said.

"That pretty much sums it up," Swann said.

"Did he also give you the commanding post again?" he asked with a grin.

Jim sighed, and rubbed his forehead as the question had been asked.

"I just don't get it," he muttered.

"Matt held the position of Head Admiral in the Dominion for over eight years! Made good progress with Junior too. And even after leaving that post, he would still have made a fine commander of this crew. Still, after so many years, he insists on having me around and settles with the 2nd in command when I get here. It's like this every time I come back."

"Well, would you otherwise sit out and do nothing?" Swann pointed out in a joking manner.

"And I I don't need to be the leader of this crew to be of use. But I guess some things never change," Raynor smirked.

Swann chuckled at the remark.

"No, some things don't, cowboy. But don't be harsh on him, cowboy. Think of it as handing the reins over to those he has been overseeing, while help leading the finest freelance mercenaries in the Dominion. Or call it his 'retirement' if you will."

"Some way of retirement that is..." Jim shook his head, while smiling.

"Well, we got a job to do. Swann, show me the latest upgrades you have done to the Hyperion and her equipment!"

*Bang!*

"What was that?!" Jim exclaimed, as the alarm went off.

Several of Swann crew ran scrambling around in the docking bay, hurrying to their assigned posts.

"Sir, you better come up here," Matt Horner's voice called over the loudspeakers.

"Pirate wraiths are attacking us. And we have more incoming!"

"Damn, they're getting bold. Swann, get your repair crew together, while I go up," Jim said, as he headed for the bridge.

"We got you covered, cowboy," Swann saluted as he watched the commander disappear through the door.

"Heh… Some things never change…" he smiled to himself.

— Location: Korhal, Outside the Psionics Academy —
— Local time: 7:49 A.M. —

She beheld the sight ahead as the sun slowly rose itself over the Psionics Academy, with the shadows from the building ahead stretching themselves over the grass around her.

The columns of the Greek-inspired front of the building, where the main entrance was found, stood tall and proud. The sound of some birds chirping in a nearby tree drew her attention. Not only because she heard their songs, but shecould feel their life force. Small creatures, but not hostile. Innocent, and feeling safe in their nest. Freedom. A bit of curiosity, as they looked at the cloaked figure on the ground ahead of them.

Her gaze returned back to the Academy again. Apparently, Valerian was really hellbent on sharing his hunger for knowledge with the rest of the terran society. That, and what he called 'enlightenment'. More than she had thought possible.

She chuckled at the thought of his 'craziness' in this, and wondered if it was received well or not. Lady Melanie was either equally crazy or just unlucky when she married him. And what would their beloved daughter Alicia grow up to be?

But Catherine wouldn't mind if his passion in the end helped the terrans grow more peaceful over the years. Then again, the 'enlightened' Avion Dynasty hadn't set a good example. Maybe only Umoja would come out victoriously on this one.

Valerian's zeal undoubtedly had a part to play, when Academy was designed. She had to admit, it was impressive for terran art. The protoss, however, outclassed them greatly, as they had an elegance in everything they had their fingers on, from lesser buildings to their capital ships. Terrans on the other hand were more concerned about the practical use, sometimes ending up in real bulky designs. But when they tried, they did create impressive art.

Oh well, what mattered more was the people, not the buildings themselves.

"Ah, so you're early too?" a voice spoke up, coming from behind, as two familiar presences approached. She could easily sense the psionic presence of others, and she had already memorized those from her new class, so it didn't surprise her to see June and Michael as she turned around.

"Hello," June smiled.

"Hey, what's up?" Michael greeted, giving a friendly nod.

Catherine nodded at them as well. Though they couldn't see her face, they sensed a friendliness radiating from her. From what they could gather, that was her way of giving a smile back. And they were right, Catherine was a little early. Most people usually showed up the final quarter before the Academy started at 8:30 A.M.

"Just thought I wanted a more relaxing walk through the Academy for the morning," Catherine replied.

"What about you two?"

"Ah, well… I'm often early" June said.

"I like spending a little time to prepare myself for the coming lectures. As you'll probably guess, I like to know what I'm talking about, whenever I participate or ask questions."

"So I've noticed," Catherine nodded, thinking of the lectures the previous day where June was the most active participant.

"She's also the top-girl of the class," Michael added, pointing a thumb at his companion.

"Takes leadership, often representing us as a group. Most of us flock around her, and she takes good care of us."

"Oh stop," June blurted out, feeling a little embarrassed as she chuckled by the remark.

"And you're his boyfriend?" Catherine asked.

"Nah, just a good friend who helps her out a bit. Not boyfriend. Not yet anyway, but I'll be," Michael smiled, winking his eye.

"Michael!" June exclaimed, hitting his shoulder.

He bounced a little back at the move, laughing.

"Don't listen to him, he's just kidding," June chuckled.

"Well, someone needs to keep up the mood," Michael smirked back.

"He sounds like a handful," Catherine said, with some friendly tease in her voice.

June smiled at first, but then her face hardened.

"Catherine, there's something you need to know…" she began.

"I saw you with Terra almost entire yesterday. I can understand since you're new here, so you don't know."

"And I suppose there is something wrong about her? That there's something to all the thoughts people had when they saw her with me?" Catherine asked.

Though most people had been focused on the newcomer, she did still pick up on 'The freak joins another freak', and similar remarks.

June nodded.

"Yes. You need to stay away from her. She's nothing but trouble. She gets into fights, over and over again, and she has serious anger problems. If you know what's best for you, you'll stay away from her, or she'll drag you down. You'll regret it."

At that moment they sensed the anger suddenly burn at them, coming from the gate. They turned around and saw Terra glaring at them.

"Aw man, I think she heard us," Michael whispered to June.

They watched as the blonde approached, her two class mates feeling their apprehension, but the blonde quickly passed by them instead, with her rage seething off at them. Still, Terra chose to ignore them the best she could.

June sighed, relieved that Terra didn't go out of control again, at least this time. Sure, she could defend herself, but getting another angry outburst from that blonde thrown at her was something she'd rather avoid dealing with.

"Stay away from her, and you'll be fine," she continued, turning to their masked newcomer.

Catherine stood there and looked at June in silence. Then, after a moment, she looked at Michael.

"She is serious?" she asked.

"Afraid so. Look, Terra's not evil and all that, she's probably a decent gal deep under, but she has some serious problems, and you don't want to get dragged in," he explained.

"I see…" Catherine quietly remarked.

"Your concern is… appreciated," she finished, as she slowly strode past them. Somehow that radiating friendliness of hers was gone.

— Academy hallways —

Of course they would tell her!

Terra paced through the hallways, trying to keep her anger in check.

'That bitch! Of course she would do that!' she thought to herself.

She reached classroom 329 soon enough, with no one outside it yet. So she walked to the nearest toilet. She placed herself at one of the sinks, and stared at herself in the mirror, trying to gather her thoughts.

''That damn bitch, how dares she?! If I get my hands on her, I'll… argh!' she thought, and slammed her arms on the sink in anger.

She took a deep breath. Then another. She had to calm herself down. Besides, why being angry about something that would happen sooner or later? It was stupid! And to be honest to herself, she knew this would happen. Everyone on the Academy knew of the infamous girl with anger problems, and someone would warn Catherine sooner or later.

And of course, that bitch June was the one she had expected the most, that self-appointed leader of their class. That she had the gall to talk about her openly still pissed her off, but she couldn't deny that they were right. She often got into trouble. No, she was trouble.

The blonde took yet another deep breath, and looked up at herself in the mirror. Light hair falling down the side of her face, her ponytail leaning over her left shoulder, her blue eyes…

Eyes that hid many things from the outside world. Eyes that knew sadness. Eyes that tried to hide her pain. Eyes that covered over everything with anger.

'Just… how the hell could I get into this deep shit…' she thought about herself. The answer was simple, but the question would always come.

"Terra?" she heard a metallic voice at her side.

She looked over, and saw Catherine present at her side.

"Leave me alone," she growled at her.

"Terra, I-"

"I said leave me alone!" she yelled.

Catherine gave no reply, but stared at her for a short moment, before she backed off and disappeared. Terra remained there above the sink, and no one else entered the toilet room.

'As long at they leave me alone, I'll be okay…'

She stared into herself in the mirror. She noticed the dull look in her eyes. She felt tired…

'That's all I can hope for. If they leave me alone… Please…'

Tired of it all…

Yes, Catherine was strange, she peeked her interested, and apparently she had a death wish corning Dylan. But it was only for a moment. And a matter of time before she was like anyone else towards her.

'Leave me alone…'

She wouldn't expect anything differently from her. She would back off, and let her be, like anyone else. There was no point in putting any faith into the newcomer. No one could be trusted. She would keep to herself, like she always did.

The minutes passed, with only herself being there.

*DING-DONG!* the alarm rang over the Academy's loudspeaker system, followed by an adjutant voice.

"The Psionic Academy welcomes every student, and wishes a good day."

Terra sighed, and got on the move. She found herself in classroom 329 once again. Catherine had sat herself at the front, sitting diagonally at her desk and leaning forward to fit in her huge hunchback. It didn't seem that comfortable. She was accompanied by Annabelle at her side. Terra found a place at the back of the room.

She really wasn't in the mood to pay attention on any of the classes today, so they passed by as she let her thoughts drift. History, literature, science, or whatever that was taught at this Academy, as long as she passed the required grades for ghost training, and the minimum requirement from any other unrelated subjects, she didn't really care about it.

She wasn't sure if she really cared about becoming ghost either, but she there wasn't much other options she could stand, and she figured she would make herself most useful within that profession. She did have a knack for using psionics, and already had experience with weaponry, something that was unusual for people her age. Life as a deadly agent… It would serve her own goals. If she failed at becoming a ghost, would she ever be able to complete them?

— 11:40 A.M. —
— Cantina —

Lunchtime came, and she found herself at a lone table, as she always had. No one sat by her, and she was fine with it. Less chance that anyone would try anything at her. It did happen that someone taunted at her, but the presence of the staff would mostly prevent any escalation. Most people saved it for better opportunities. Whether good or bad, the lunchtime gave her a point of relief during the day.

Some meat and mashed potatoes for lunch, served by the cantina personnel. Neither good nor bad, just plain food, Terra thought.

"So… you… you're going to show them your powers today?" a shy voice asked, with a distinct accent that had a rolling r.

"Well… Terra and I were a little late yesterday to the psionic training course, and Mr. Henry had already dispersed everyone to do their individual training. I gave him a brief summary on some of my abilities though," a metallic voice spoke.

Terra recognized the latter voice, and looked over her shoulder to see Catherine and Annabelle having sat down at the next table. She took a quick look around the mess hall, to see tables with occupants everywhere.

'Figures, them of all people sit down close to me, because everything else is occupied. I guess this is going to annoy me a while,' Terra rolled her eyes.

'Well, as long as they don't try to bother me…'

"I see," Annabelle replied.

"But I'll try to keep it limited. Since… you know. But what about you?" Catherine asked.

"I… I'd rather not," Annabelle muttered, looking down on the food plate in front of her.

"I don't like attention."

She spoke so quietly that Terra could barely hear what she said.

'Well, she has showed the minimum requirements to pass the Academy, but everyone knows she is stronger,' Terra thought, summing up the common knowledge about her fellow blonde, and turned back to her own meal.

"But… Oh, never mind," Catherine waved it off, for now.

"Say, you want to come home over to my place after the Academy today?"

"Hi, can we join you?" another painfully familiar voice interrupted them.

Terra looked over her shoulder again, and noticed June, followed by Michael and two other girls from her class. They all stood there, carrying food trays with their hands. June did notice that Terra was looking at them, and she ignored her, like anyone usually would.

Catherine and Annabelle gave each other a look, the way a masked girl and a girl with a veil covering her eyes could.

"Yes, you can join us," Catherine said.

For some reason, Terra had the impression that Catherine's voice somehow was less enthusiastic. If so, it was well hidden, so she wouldn't be surprised if June and the other's didn't pick up on it. That they sat down with the pair seemed to confirm that.

"So, no lunch huh?" Michael remarked, seeing that Catherine had no food tray in front of her. Only Annabelle had it before they arrived.

"What's the thing with the mask," he asked.

June rolled her eyes, and shook her head. Of course Michael would blurt out that question. Idiot.

"I have my own reasons," Catherine replied.

"And I usually eat what I need at home."

Terra kept looking over her shoulder, observing what was going on at that table.

Typical, June and the rest encircling the newcomer. Of course, she was the top-girl in the class, always acting so "responsible" and "caring" for others. Unless you happened to be one of the outcasts. Those no one wanted to be with. What a hypocrite. Bitch. She had clashed with June before, as that girl had the damn nerve to scold her for her problems, and openly called her the embarrassment of the class. Several times.

And that Michael… Always joking around. Always too straightforward. She ignored him, he ignored her. At least he didn't bother her, but he always backed up June.

Taking a last look over her shoulder one final time, she observed as June and her friends tried their best to talk with Catherine and get to know her. Somehow, Catherine didn't seem too enthusiastic about it, and Annabelle… from the looks of her face, she seemed really uncomfortable, as far as Terra could tell. The odd girl slumped herself together, looking down on her own food tray in front of her, not wanting to gaze up. No one seemed to do anything about it, or even care.

Annabelle was truly not a people's person, that was for sure. And June… too occupied to notice, or care.

— 13:00 —
— Psionic training hall 4 —

The Academy had several facilities for training and developing the psionic abilities of their students, used in turn by the different age-groups. Age-group 13 had dibs in this one during the early afternoons, most of the week. Reminiscent of large sports halls, but with dedicated equipment for training the diverse psionic powers, as well as physical training and basic self-defense.

Telepathy was the most common field. In the early days of the Academy, there were few who showed greater powers, such as telekinesis or creating energy bursts at will, and they would be overseen by a private tutor in a different environment. Over the last ten years, however, larger variety of strong psionic powers had been manifested among the students. Not only that, but the number of Academy students itself had increased by folds.

Scientists and experts were baffled by this development, and no one had yet been able to fully explain why. Widespread genetic mutation making itself present in the terran race? Or some sort of 'psionic residue' from the Hybrid War? The theories varied. The protoss called this 'a blessing to the terran race', and the Dominion eagerly searched for potentials, and brought them to Korhal.

At younger age, the entire class would train in one group, overseen by their teacher. As the students got older and their different talents and powers made themselves known, they would train individually, with varying progression

Someone showed excellent mastery at telepathy and mind reading, while others had stronger telepathic powers. But the more powerful a child in general, the stronger that person would be in every field. The strongest ever had been Sarah Kerrigan, today known as the Queen of Blades, a name that was greatly feared, and to some degree respected. Next after her came Nova Terra. Today, Dylan Hadgers, of all people, held the position as the current strongest among the attending students.

What all the children in the Psionics Academy had in common was that they were 'gifted'. How gifted each person was, could vary greatly. Some passed the minimum requirements, and demonstrated that they could control their power and avoid causing harm to others. The highest requirements were for those who wanted to pursue ghost careers. While everyone praised the concept of an open Academy, one of the negative sides that the public easily overlooked was the tendency of a little too much hostile rivaling.

One would think competition would be healthy, until you learned of the unfriendly rivalries, and you noticed the cases of arrogance, mocking and abuse of powers. Dylan was the very definition of this problem. Age-group 13 was one of the friendlier groups, without this unhealthy rivalry. Well, as long as one didn't count the angry outbursts from Terra Wiggins. They proved to be strong, psionically, and had good control over their powers, with one, possibly two exceptions.

"Everyone, gather up!" Mr. Henry called to all members of this particular croup, as they arrived.

They placed themselves in a half circle in front of Mr Henry and his two assistants. Everyone wore their training outfits, except for Annabelle who remained in her dress, and the newcomer, still in her cloaks and mask.

"Before we resume our individual training, I'd like for Miss Catherine do demonstrate to us some of her abilities. If you'd would kindly?" Mr Henry said as he gestured his arm for Catherine to step forward.

One of Henry's assistants laid out several metal pieces in front of her.

"All these pieces will together form a metal sphere. You're all familiar with this puzzle, as it is standard practice in telekinesis control. Now, Miss Catherine, I'd like you to assemble the sphere. Take the time you need."

Catherine lifted a hand, and all the pieces quickly lifted themselves up into the air. As she waved her fingers around, the pieces where quickly gathered and completed the sphere.

"Very impressive, I see you have had practice," Henry remarked, as he and the assistants applauded her efforts. The class followed suit.

"Now, how-" he began.

"-about mind reading?" Catherine interrupted him, mid-sentence, before looking from one assistant, to Henry, to the other assistant.

"You're annoyed because of that parking ticket yesterday."

"You're simply a little thrown off because I began mind reading before you suggested it."

"And you were just able to think of the number 31 in time before I checked your mind"

"Hey, that's private!" the first assistance yelled, while many of the students had problems to avoid snickering at the reaction.

"Not bad, Miss Catherine, but I was going to suggest a bigger challenge. Mind reading itself is common", Mr. Henry pointed out.

"Find out what I am thinking about."

"You're thinking about a quote from old Earth literature. "To be or not to be". You know, for a former ghost, I bet your love for English literature would surprise many people."

Mr. Henry looked at her in silence.

"That is… correct, Miss Catherine. I put up as much resistance as I could. You're… You're more efficient than I thought," he replied to her work, with a tinge of embarrassment.

"It seems I did underestimated you, after all," he added.

Everyone was now staring at her in silence. The class knew well of Henry's past. He was a former ghost himself, and a damn good one, not far away from Nova's level. And he was one of the few with the ability to completely shield his mind with little effort. Even his own colleagues would have difficulties in breaking past this mental defence of his. No one among this class had ever managed to succeed. Yet here was one who simply skipped past any defense he could muster.

"As you can see, class," he finally voiced up.

"In spite of what ever you may see or feel from miss Catherine, she is very adept at her psionic abilities."

'Adept?!' Terra thought.

'I can't even freaking sense her! And here she reads Henry as a open book!'

'What does Mr. Henry know, that we don't?' June mused, being one of the few who picked up on their teacher's last comment.

''Did underestimate'? 'After all'? So he likely knows what she is, if my hunch is right.'

'You'll be the first one to find out, babe! Remember to share it with us, okay?' she heard Michael's voice in her head, causing her to roll her eyes.

Mr. Henry gestured for the class to follow him to one of the corners of the training hall. Over here many loose objects in different sizes and shapes were spread over the entire floor. Balls, rings, cubes, pyramids, metal beams. Some made of wood, some made of rocks, some made of metal. Pretty much anything one could think of. In total, there were over a hundred objects.

"This, miss Catherine, is the corner where the students with telekinetic abilities practice. Students who are capable of such abilities usually start between age 11-13. And I'm also proud to tell you that most from our age group possess that ability."

Catherine noticed that among the students, a blond boy winced as the teacher spoke these words.

He was as tall as most other children in the class, had short blond hair, blue eyes. His outfit consisted of some black training suit, with pads colored dark green on the shoulders, knees and elbows.

Mr. Henry continued his explanation.

"As you can see from the high number and different shapes, a great variety of challenges can be found here, and we aim to cover a required minimum. Especially if there are many students from the same class with telekinetic powers. While our class may be one of the smallest, there are many among your class mates who aim for the ghost training program, and many of them show excellent powers. And from what we have seen, I'd believe you would qualify as well."

"How much does a ghost need to handle?" the cloaked girl asked.

"For passing the Psionic Academy, you need to show that you can handle your powers and prevent harming others," one of the assistants pointed out.

"But for being accepted into the ghost training program, the requirements are much higher," Henry continued.

"Ghost training has never required more than 'normal' telepathic abilities, but with the greater variety from the latter generation, there are specializations possible."

"And, you want me to lift these?" she asked.

"I'd like you to show some of your abilities to the rest of the class, but I won't force you more than you're comfortable with. Decide how much you want. Or you may even refuse, if you think it's too much to ask for."

"I guess I could show you," the masked girl replied, though with some hesitation.

She stretched out her right gloved arm, and raised it slowly. It was noticeable that her fingers were longer than usual, with sharp edges. As she slowly raised her arm, about a fourth of all the objects were slowly lifted into the air. Many were smaller, but some were large rocks, over a cubic meter in size. Then she gently moved them around in circle.

Everyone was staring bewildered at her. Of course, as the teacher had said, most of the students in the class were working with this exercise, but to be 13 years old and lift this many already, and with such control, was unheard of.

'I think I overdid it. Way to go with your discretion, Catherine…' the said girl sighed mentally, as she felt the widespread reaction from her class.

"That's impressive," Henry noted.

"Maybe you should go for the ghost program when you're old enough. You would make an excellent one," he smirked.

She gently lowered the objects back on the ground again.

"Yo, is that all?" Michael exclaimed.

"If you read his mind so well, shouldn't you… you know… use both your arms?"

June hit him on his shoulder.

"Hey, now what?" he exclaimed on her, while she shook her head of that boy.

"Michael, if Miss Catherine doesn't wish to show more of her powers, that is her own choice," Henry sighed, annoyed that Michael had once again interrupted with one of his typical out-blurting questions.

"Don't worry, I might impress you at another time," Catherine said, allowing herself a small tease in her voice.

"I suppose you have other abilities as well, but everyone should practice their abilities now, so I won't ask you any further," Henry said, as Catherine nodded.

"Now, class, go and continue your exercises from yesterday."

The students spread out, to their different posts. Terra found herself among the objects with four other students practicing lifting the objects. Among them were Michael and Brian. Some other students gathered in a ring by another wall to practice telepathy.

Telepathy itself was straight forward. Shielding against mind-readers was not. Instructors and experts had throughout the later years recognized the problem with ghosts easily reading the mind of other ghosts, and had devised new ways for users to protect themselves.

Direct shielding was a rare ability, though the number was on the rise. But there were techniques for how to sense when someone tapped into your mind, and how to throw them off. Disciplining the mind, and controlling all thoughts, allowing only what you wanted to be read. Whether that be avoiding sensitive information at will, or simply throwing in random thoughts to confuse the reader. Sometimes it ended up with games of tug-o-war, to steal as much information as possible while protecting your own.

Terra didn't care much about who were present near her. When everyone trained their psionic abilities, or if it was physical training, it required all their individual focus. To her, this was the most tolerable part of the Academy. Nothing else to worry about or think about. No one to bother her.

Except for the thumbing noise that came from her right. She turned to see the blond one. Brian. The one who always struggled. He gritted his teeth in frustration as he desperately tried to lift a few objects. Sure, he did have the ability to lift some, but he always seemed to screw up at anything, from mind-reading to physical training. It began well, and ended badly. The only "worse exception" of the class would be Annabelle, whom no one had seen ever lift anything.

The sound of struggle and groaning caused her to turn her view to her left, and she saw June and Nina, another class mate, train in hand-to-hand combat, overseen by one of Henry's assistants.

In the distance beyond, Terra spotted Annabelle and Catherine standing at a corner, speaking with one another. They seemed to have a rather good conversation, and Annabelle even smiled a bit.

It was strange, when the thoughts crossed her.

Terra had actually never seen Annabelle do any exercise during the psionic classes. Everyone was strongly encouraged to train their abilities to the best, but no one was actually forced to it. The minimum requirement for this Academy was to have sufficient control of any powers one possessed, so the person wouldn't harm anyone by accident, in the future. To pass the highest requirements, and to become ghosts was voluntary. Not everyone was fit for that profession, and someone would choose a different career path. Perhaps Annabelle was one of them?

Terra took a closer look at Catherine.

'Just what the hell are you? How strong are you really?' she asked herself.

The cloaked girl couldn't even be sensed, and already turned out to be strong. But she quickly shook off these thoughts, and returned to her practice. Catherine had no reason to take any further interest in her, and she was right to do so. Terra would only bring her trouble. As long as the newcomer minded her own business, she would not care any further for her either.

She continued practicing her telekinetic abilities. She was rather good, and lifted several objects into the air. She even moved them around in a number-eight pattern, without them touching one another. She would continue this pattern, while having a few other small objects form a slowly spinning circle.

The blonde kept practicing this throughout the day, making sure to train her psionic endurance, because it was really exhausting at this point.

The day came to an end, and the students left for the changing rooms. Terra stood for a moment, catching up her breath from the demanding exercise of hers, before she turned towards her exit.

"Terra?" the metallic voice called out to her.

She turned to see Catherine approaching her.

"About this morning-" she began.

"Stay away from me!" Terra interrupted her.

"But I-"

"Just… stay away!" she growled at her, before quickly turning around and disappearing towards the changing room.

Catherine remained behind, and looked as the automatic doors shut close, where Terra had disappeared. She stood there for a moment, before letting out a sigh, as she slowly walked out of the training hall. The anger that radiated from the blonde was not particularly pleasant.

Terra didn't see any more of that cloaked girl that day, as she quickly changed and left the Academy. She was lucky and didn't have any run-ins with Dylan, or anyone else that would exploit her anger. The masked newcomer was on everyone's lips, especially her intervention between Dylan and Lily the day before. Most people didn't even seem to notice Terra on her way out. If luck for once favored her, she would stay below the radar for a while. Maybe the newcomer brought some benefits to her after all.

The day moved on, she left the area and took the tram to the East sector, and got home. Day turned to evening, ending with her listening to some news and thinking about her own goals. The newcomer didn't matter anymore. Shouldn't, at least. All that mattered was herself.

Passing the Academy would serve her goals, but maybe it was time to consider other options? All Catherine did, was buying her time. People would sooner or later get over their distraction with the masked newcomer, and Terra would be targeted once again for ridicule. And she had to fight keeping her anger in check. But deep inside, she knew the truth: She would fail miserably, and it would be over.

— Next morning —
— Location: Outside the Psionics Academy —
— Local time: 8:03 A.M. —

This was probably the third day in a row where she found herself early at the Academy. Terra's recurring nightmares kept returning. It wasn't new to her, though. Sometimes they came and went. She had often unpleasant dreams, so she was lucky whenever she slept comfortably for a whole night.

But the worst nightmares? It could go weeks between each time, and there were times where she woke up every morning in row all drenched in sweat.

What did she do when it happened? Got up, got showered, ate breakfast and headed for the Academy. Just earlier than required. What could she do?

"Have you calmed yourself now?"

She had just passed the gate, when that metallic voice voiced up behind her. She turned around to see the masked girl leaning sideways onto the wall, looking at her with her arms crossed. She now stepped away from the wall, towards her.

"Terra, please hear me out," she said.

The blonde was tempted to repeat the same words from the day before, but decided against it.

"About what happened yesterday, I want you to know that-"

"Know what?" Terra cut her short.

"That you'll stay away from me? Sure, just go ahead and become another lapdog to that red-haired bitch," Terra growled.

"Just shut up and listen!" Catherine snapped, with an outburst that passed through the blonde, silencing her completely.

Catherine meant business now, and would no longer let the blonde interrupt her.

"What I want you to know, is that I choose my friends, not them," she added, pointing at herself to emphasize the point.

"Wait, are you saying…" Terra muttered.

She took a deep breath to calm herself. Again she had given herself too quickly into anger. She didn't really mind Catherine at all, but when June got into the picture, she easily got pissed off.

"You choose your own friends…" she repeated, pondering the words for a bit, looking down on some nearby ground.

She looked up straight at the mask again.

"You know what?… They're right. You really shouldn't stay near me. What people say about me is true. I… I have… anger issues."

She took another deep breath, before she chuckled bitterly.

"It gets me into trouble. A lot of trouble. And I'll just drag you down with me. No, you'd better stay away, and care for yourself."

She looked down on the ground again, and let out another sigh.

"Not to mention that I'm just about to get kicked out, so you'll just end up wasting your time."

She felt a hand on her shoulder, which caused her head to jolt up.

"I'm used to trouble, I can handle that," Catherine said.

Terra just stared at the masked girl who stood at her front, whom had put her arm on her shoulder. Somehow, she could tell that the girl was giving her a friendly smile, behind that mask.

"Could even become a good challenge," she added, then walked past her towards the entrance.

Terra just remained there, and looked Catherine from behind, not sure what to think. This was the outcome she had expected the least. Why would the newcomer even take chances on her, knowing very well what she was? Catherine turned to look back at her.

"Come on, then," she called at her, waving her to follow.

"Or were you planning to stay out here the whole day?" she teased.

The blonde snapped out of it, and followed. On one hand, she couldn't understand what was wrong with Catherine. But on the other hand, she felt… a sense of relief. But the day was far from over, as many interesting events awaited them.

It started with running into Nova into the hallways, an exchange that went in an unforeseen way.

The said teacher and the duo had just stopped, and Terra was about to just give a casual "Hey" or a nod to greet her, when she noticed that Nova… actually was glaring harshly at Catherine. Catherine stood her ground, and Terra easily sense that whatever was radiating from the masked girl… that really wasn't friendly either.

"Catherine," Nova growled.

"Nova," Catherine replied in same fashion.

'What the hell?' Terra thought.

"So… How are your parents?" Nova asked, her voice filled with venom.

"They are doing fine. And I assume you're enjoying your work here?" the masked girl replied, having a chilling coldness in her voice.

"It has its good times," the older blonde replied.

They glared at each other before resuming on their separate ways, not exchanging any more words.

Terra was dumbstruck by what she had seen.

"What the hell was that all about?" she asked, when she finally dug her voice up after a minute.

"Let's just say that I, my family and Nova… we know each other already… more or less," Catherine explained vaguely.

"I guess it's not the friendly way," Terra mused.

"You could say that," Catherine nodded.

The blonde was really curious about it, but she decided against asking. Catherine was wearing the mask for a reason, and… she figured her her family could have something to do with it. If Catherine was interested in retelling the story, she would have by now.

The day moved on, as they attended the different lectures of the day. Mathematics, science, history. All those subjects. Catherine sat at the front row, joined by Annabelle at one side, and Terra on the other. Lectures went on as they usually did, most of the teacher's were professional and quickly got used to the masked figure's presence. Except for poor Mrs. Sullivan, something that gave Terra a relaxing break from thinking. But otherwise, they would teach like normal, and Catherine appeared to sit and listen attentively, with a few other's in the class participating actively, mostly June. Or they would do their individual assignments on the monitor in their fronts. No group assignment had been given, yet.

— 12:00 A.M. —

The lunch break came, and they were on their ways towards the mess hall, someone noticed Terra together with the newcomer, and called out to the blonde.

"Hey! Ugly! Why don't you just get lost and save the Academy the embarrassment you are, you ugly piece of shit!"

The blonde slowly turned around, with her eyes blazing.

"You…" she growled, staring at three boys, a year older than herself, laughing at her.

'Why… Why can't they ever shut up!… Why can't they ever leave me alone! No! Must… keep… control…' she thought, trying to keep her burning rage in check.

She turned around, and continued towards the mess hall, following behind Catherine.

"Coward!" one of the boys shouted.

"Whore!" another yelled.

It snapped for Terra, as she turned around, feeling she wanted nothing more than to pounce at the boys and beat the hell out of them, but something grabbed her arm and held her back. She turned to see the mask of Catherine, staring straight at her, as her hand held her elbow steadfastly.

'Let me handle it!' she heard Catherine speak mentally to her.

The cloaked girl turned towards the boys and walked slowly over to them. They seemed a little nervous as the newcomer came closer and closer.

"That was not a nice thing to say…" her metallic voice began.

"Apologize, right now!" she demanded.

"W-Why s-should we? I mean, you're a w-weirdo with that mask and all!…" one of them stuttered.

She stepped closer towards the boys, step by step, whom slightly backed up against the wall.

"W-We're sorry!" one of the boys screamed.

Terra didn't know why, but she did feel something very cold radiate from Catherine that sent shivers down her own spine.

"Please don't hurt us!" another one pleaded.

"Don't do it again, ever!" Catherine growled, before she slowly backed off. She turned and walked up to Terra, leaving the three boys backed up against the wall, all pale and sweating profoundly.

She motioned for the blonde to follow.

"You… really didn't have to do that…" Terra quietly spoke, as they disappeared around the corner.

"Didn't you say you're just about to get kicked out?" Catherine asked.

"Thought I could use some help to keep June off my back. It might be impossible without you."

Terra couldn't help but smirk at the words.

"Thanks… I guess… But, how did you do that?" the blonde asked.

"Let's just say I've learned a thing about intimidating others, or two…"

"You used your psionic powers, didn't you?" Terra said, though it was a more a statement than a question.

"Maybe a little," Catherine chirped back.

— Location: Cantina —

Reaching the cantina, with its many tables spread out in the big hall, Catherine and Terra found a free table and sat down. Annabelle appeared shortly after, and came over to the table, but seemed hesitant. The cloaked girl motioned for her to sit down, and dress-wearing blond nodded hesitantly, and did so.

'She is definitely not blind… Or, well she is, but she can still see,' Terra thought.

"You two know each other, don't you?" Catherine asked.

"Um…" Annabelle muttered.

Terra said gave Annabelle a raised eyebrow, saying nothing.

"I'm… I'm not… really good with people…" Annabelle whispered.

Catherine rubbed a hand on her back to offer support. It seemed to calm her.

"Can't say I'm a people's person either," Terra sighed.

"Oh come on, don't tell me the masked freak is the social expert around here," Catherine chuckled.

"You gotta start somewhere."

Terra and Annabelle looked at one another.

"I… guess I wouldn't mind…" Terra muttered.

"Just as long as you can handle my temper."

"I…" Annabelle said quietly.

"I don't… I don't have anything against you… but…"

The silent teenager lowered her head.

"I'm just…"

"Look," Terra interjected.

"I'll try to be decent to you, as long as you… well… you know… don't make me angry."

Annabelle 'looked' at Terra once again, and gave a slight nod, trying to smile a little. Though it seemed to be of big effort from her own part as well.

"That wasn't so difficult, was is?" Catherine joined in, as Annabelle sat down by her side.

"Well, you're the social expert, you tell me," Terra smirked.

Next thing they knew, Terra spotted June and her friends approaching them. Catherine and Annabelle also noticed, with the latter one turning more stiff, becoming tense.

"Hey, I…" June began, but halted as she spotted Terra on the same table.

"I… I think there is a free table over there!" she finished, pointing at a different table, and rushed over there, with her friends in tow.

Terra shook her head, and let out a sigh.

"Damn bitch…" she whispered.

"You know…" Catherine voiced up.

While no one could see it, Terra somehow knew that Catherine had a smirk behind her mask.

"I think this will work out, just fine."

Terra was not certain about what she meant, but she noticed as Annabelle seemed to calm down, and let out a sigh of relief herself.

'Yeah… Maybe…' she thought, not knowing that this was the start of a friendship that would one day would shape the very fate of the entire Koprulu sector.

— Time: 15:14 —

The day reached it's end, and Terra found herself outside the Academy with Catherine and Annabelle. No one had made any more tries at mocking her, mostly because everyone stared at Catherine. Ignoring both her and the odd shy girl that now accompanied them.

And whatever Catherine had done to those three boys, it had left an impression on those who had witnessed.

Somehow, something told her that Catherine had her back, when the time would come. But why? The newcomer didn't even know her. Why would she do that? Would it last? She didn't know what to think of it.

"Um… excuse me…" a very young voice called to them.

They turned, and saw a little blond girl. Lily Atkins, whom looked shyly at the ground as soon as they had turned to see her, except for looking up a few quick glances. She hid her hands behind her back.

Catherine approached, and gently lowered herself to the young girl's height.

"What can I do for you, little one?" she asked with a kind voice.

Lily quickly glanced at her mask, and looked away for a moment, the shy girl she was.

"I…" she began.

"I… I wanted to give you this."

Her arm moved out from behind, holding a drawing. Catherine took it, and looked over it. Terra came in from behind, and looked over Catherine's big hunchback and shoulder.

She didn't have much interest in drawings or art, but given Lily's age… This was quite the exception.

The motive itself was typically a child's, showing little Lily holding hands with the cloaked figure. But the details… Depth perception, some smooth details, deep coloring, light and shadow perspective. Figures not with big round heads the half size of the bodies, but with realistic size proportions, and proper clothing… Lily wore a white dress, with red flower patterns at the edges, Catherine wore her cloaks, hanging down on her and clearly showing the mask, to very close details. Trees nearby, with detailed leaves casting shadows over the ground.

Not the great artistic level… yet… But incredibly skilled for someone who was not older than 8 years. The blonde had to admit, the little girl actually impressed her.

"That's so sweet of you," Catherine said, happiness present in her voice.

"And this is really good."

The little girl couldn't help but smile and blush at the praise she got.

"I like to draw…" she spoke softly.

Catherine looked at her, face to face. Or rather, mask to face.

"Lily, wasn't it? I'm Catherine," she said, holding out her gloved arm.

Lily grabbed the hand, and shook it slightly.

"You have really long fingers" she remarked, looking at the hand.

Catherine lifted her hand, and gave it a look herself.

"I guess I have," she chuckled.

She couldn't see her face, but the young girl could feel a warm and soothing feeling radiating from the cloaked figure. Similar to the other day when she stopped Dylan. Somehow, she knew this was her way of conveying a warm smile.

Another bond had begun forming.

— END CHAPTER —

Author's Notes:

Not much I have on my heart.

Until next time!