*Ting. . . . . *

The pounding echoes.

*Ting. . . . . . *

A hammer strikes again.

*Ting. . . . . . . *

It all comes closer.

*TING. . . . . . . . . . . . . *

Will it ever have an end?

"It's such an odd sight, isn't it? To see someone dig their own graves is uncommon, but to have someone bring the metal for their own chains. . . . ."

*TING. . . . . . . "

". . . . . . that's a whole new kind of rarity, isn't it?"

*TING. . . . . . "

"Who are you?"

"Why do you ask my name? Isn't it rude to ask someone's name without first giving out your own? But you are a girl of high society, and still young. I shall forgive you. My name will not be revealed."

"Why?"

*Ting*

"The chain lengthens, but you have kept a vital part of the finished crown away from him, do you have a mind to allow me into your scheme?"

"No."

"Then it is far too difficult for me to help you. Perhaps when you become more desperate, you will find yourself open to an alliance. After all. . . . .

. . . . . . I know much more of your self that you know of either of us."

"Is that so?"

*Ting*

"Yes. . . . yes it is. . . . . . after all. . . . . "

". . . . I can see everything. . . . "

Suki awoke.

How tranquil and contrasting the morning was whenever doth she wake. Suki was very sleepy, or at least she felt that way in her cotton quilted bed whenever she woke up in these warm spring morning days.

How odd that she should hear another voice calling to her as her mind echoed across the void. It was as if her thoughts were reaching those of another, or maybe her subconscious was just that colorative. More things were coming to the surface, it was as if it were all leading up to something, and Suki just wasn't quite sure how to stop it.

Maybe I should stay out of these things. She pondered. Or maybe I should try to become some sort of hero. I know that these dreams come to me for a reason, but who might be directing them is even more fearful.

. . .

Maybe someone was just trying to turn her away from all that she ever had and mess with her home country in some vile and evil way, but there was no denying it.

The Latise had a dark side.

Suki popped out of bed and waltzed to her little bedroom window. Looking out there into the beautiful, green morning sky, Suki wondered what the future might bring.

"It's as if someone is warning me. . . ." She thought, speaking to herself out loud. "As if someone is telling me. . . that something's wrong. . . . "

Suki looked down at the shining dream crown piece she had slept with.

". . . And I'm the only one who can do anything about it. . ." Suki clenched her hand around the beautiful glowing white piece of metal. Good thing Narabot didn't know that she had kept it from him. Or else she would already be busted.

Guess I better get started on today's plans. Suki started as she gleamed out happily into the distance.

"If I want to get anywhere, I better not put it off!" Suki smiled as she collapsed upon both elbows looking out into the distance beyond. It was time to begin another day. A day dedicated. . . to uncovering anything that Suki could. A day that Suki would finally look into things she really wished she had looked into a long time ago. It was just that only now had it become relatively important enough to check into it.

Getting dressed and taking a morning shower, Suki completed her morning by moving down below and giving her mother a greeting. Whilst down below, Suki makes a point of asking Mami if Omycid would be back in time to join with them in the gathering of the dream crown piece sunken at Black Merge. And much to Suki's joy, Mami said yes. It was wonderful.

Suki went outside and visited her friends. They were waiting there for her as usual. Just Chryssy and Narabot. It wasn't like Suki had any other people she called friends on this island, save maybe a few acquaintances which Chryssy had. But they were usually busy and had other daily things to do in life. Not to mention they were all much younger than her.

"Hey!" Chryssy greeted. "What you gonna do today?" She asked enthusiastically. Suki herself was somewhat excited, if not a bit fearful, hiding a dream crown part from the Latise, but the immaturity in her confidence held that fear for affecting her quite well.

"Well, today We're gonna do what we should have done a long time ago." Suki informed as if getting ready to make a big announcement. Chryssy just smiled wider, waiting for Suki to continue.

"Get me some better feet?" Narabot asked. "I mean, really, the ones I have now aren't great for keeping up with you on the beach. It wastes power, I really should have-"

"No Narabot." Suki interrupted as she smiled with a roll of her eyes. "We have something even more important than that to do."

"We need to find out what the Latise is really up to!" Suki entreated boldly. Chryssy immediately frowned. Narabot turned his head to look at her before looking back at Suki. This didn't make any sense to the puzzled android, but looking at Chryssy for an expression wasn't helping either. The only way to get more information was too keep listening to Suki. Something she didn't mind at all.

"And we need to find out why Kire tried to kill me!" The girl stated a little fiercely. "Chryssy! You need to go the Latise and find whatever information that you can!"

"No way!" Chryssy threw back. "They'll think I'm snooping! And. . . . they'll get suspicious! And. . and. . . . "

"Chryssy!" Suki complained. "Come on! Do you want to know what's going on, or not?"

Chryssy looked thoughtful for a moment.

"Well. . . . " Chryssy started to say. She didn't want to just leave her friend hanging there, but she didn't want to make herself look suspicious either. Even so, Chryssy knew that if she asked questions that people would be more than happy to give her some information. Many scientists and robot programmers there thought she was cute and sweet. Making it easy to get on their good side."

"I guess it would be okay." Chryssy finished. "But don't expect me to get very far! You never know what they might say yes or no too, okay?"

"Okay!" Suki smiled. "Now we can get this operation going. Let's move out!"

"I still would like some foot replacements if we are to go by the beach today." Narabot input. "But if I must go without. . . "

Suki headed for the library, one of her favorite places to be, other than the art store that was. Quickly, Suki began to ponder the best way to glean information which would be helpful to her cause. She immediately thought to see what the librarian search assistant might have to say at the counter, so Suki decided to check there.

The librarian was a white female mongoose wearing glasses, she also had a black lady's coat and high heals, though she wasn't intent of displaying herself like some women would in this day and age.

Suki walked up to the counter and waited promptly for the other to finish something on her computer.

"Yes?" The mongoose asked with a simple smile, finally gazing away from the monitor that had been planted in front of her face. Suki was glad that most of the people she knew in places like this were friendly. She started to look backwards at the book isles searching for a specific category of which she could begin upon. It would remind her which questions she needed to ask as she was getting a little nervous.

The inside of the library was simple. It aimed for no vibrant colors of any sort. Mostly white shelves and an occasional glass pane filling in for a wall, perhaps to make it all somewhat artistic. Behind Suki the white shelves went back about 50 feet. To Suki's right was a larger portion of the library which contained more shelves and was connected to the research center. The research center was a long room filled with computers for public use behind the shelves. Even further to Suki's right, about 150 feet was the reading arena. A place with fewer shelves and instead a place for those of whom had chosen their books, could read them or check them out before borrowing them.

The library, in Suki's eyes was truly a generous place. You could read books there free of charge, and the knowledge they offered was infinite. One could become much wiser or knowledgeable by spending time here. For the knowledge of the wise comes from standing on the shoulders of giants.

Such shoulders were certainly present here.

Suki saw the category which she was looking for. It was History.

"Uh, I'd like to look up some things about the Dream Crown." Suki said with a smile. She certainly didn't feel like smiling on the inside, as she was still attempting to get over the harsh dream from earlier this morning, but Suki was somewhat lighthearted. She used to be even moreso when she was younger. Then violence brought another perspective on life to her. Her seriousness was of some gain.

"Ah, the Dream Crown." The lady smiled. "Just what I like looking into, and if I'm not mistaken, you're the dream crown seeker working at the Latise, aren'tcha." She added in a welcoming fashion with a smile.

"Yeah." Suki blushed, "That's me! Uh. . . but. . . . " Suki started to wonder off.

"Could you just treat me like anyone else? I don't want a bunch of respect and stuff. . . I like having just normal friends and it's not like I hang out with higher ups all the time." She added somewhat quitely, looking back behind her and curling one of her quils with her finger.

"Of course." The librarian smiled. "I had every intention of doing just that." She explained. "My uncle was a well known captain of the expoditionaries. He hated how people saw him as some sort of elite when he wasn't and just wished he could walk around town having conversations with people normally." She stated. "I looked up a lot to him." She gazed upwards as if grateful too one held dear toward her, who perhaps passed away just a littla while back. "Let's see if I can help you with what you're looking for."

Suki had never met this librarian before. She figured she had been new to the area, and Suki wondered how she came to be here. Suki also noticed that she seemed more enthusiastic about her work. She dressed simply, but not informally, and her hair was kempt in the same fashion. This lady's positive attitude, And her willingness to not awe at Suki as some other being of great magnificence made Suki fell as she had found a friend.

How nice it was to be with someone who had treated her normally. For once. . .

"Um, may I ask your name?" Suki asked a little precariously. The librarian answered almost immediately in satisfaction.

"Certainly." She answer positively. "My name is Gravia, and your's I think. . . " She started to lead up on.

"Is Suki." Suki answered. "Everyone knows my name. I think." She answered a little bit self consciously.

"Of course." Gravia giggled subtly for a moment. "It's a nice name too." She added with a smile.

"Thank you." Suki blushed. "I really appreciate it!"

"You're welcome." Gravia applauded. "So, what did you have more in mind for our adventure down these isles?"

Suki thought for a moment, as she had to get her mind back on track. More in mind? I guess that just asking about the Dream Crown might not be enough. Be more specific? She wondered.

"I'm not sure what I'm looking for exactly." Suki began, "But I think something about the Dream Crown's powers would work well." She submitted with a smile.

"Maybe." The librarian suggested. "But I would recommend you first start with learning about something, by looking at those in the earliest contact with it." She enthused.

"Take the Eli." She added. "They were the earliest in contact with the Dream Crown. "

"Mhhh Mhhh." Suki nodded. "They were the people that created it." She remembered. Suki's history class had covered that a long, long time ago, but she was only young when they covered all that.

"That's right." The Librarian stated. " In fact, one of the greatest mysteries of our local nationality is the people who lived here before the unification. You see, back when the Eli, and the Nota were still divided."

"They became one because they lived on the same island." Suki commented. "And needed to keep away outsiders who were giving them trouble."

"That's not all." The librarian added. "The Eli were all but subdued, still, they threatened to use their powers to destroy this very island if they weren't left alone. The Eli were divided into two peoples. Some of which joined with the Nota, and then submitted to them. The rest continuing to hold their ground, they Perished, at the cavern of Arrogance as it is so called. . . . . A reminder that war is not always an option for those who are weak." Gravia reminded. "Almost none of the Eli remain today, they are all but half breeds, shadows of their former selves. . . . Yet even so, somehow, many of those with higher government positions are people who have Eli blood in them. Including Michad, Michad the lukewarm, if you ask me." She almost huffed.

"Yeah. . . Michad. . . is not the most. . . " Suki started to trail off. Freedom ofa speech was allowed on this island, so long it didn't become "over focusing" and she wouldn't be called out likely for anything she said here, but speaking evil about Michad behind his back wouldn't help her gain more respect within their ranks. Even so, Suki felt that something evil was about that man. It was like a dark presence followed the strange grey fox wherever he went. Like he was repossessed of sorts. . . . But what could she do about it? Not one person would believe her if she spoke out about it. And if she opened up her mouth for that purpose, something bad might happen to her. Michad had always been relatively flavorful toward the girl, and she would hate to return good with evil. But Suki always thought a different ruler someday would be nice. At least one she would not get the shivers from merely keeping company in his presence. Besides, in addition to that- many of Michad's political diametrics were unreported to the general populace. Specifically on what happened outside the island of Valatise. Valatise being the island they called home.

"Indeed" The mongoose chuckled. "As you can see, he has caught quite a bit of attention, but tell me. . . . " The lady stopped and smiled down at Suki for a brief moment adding to effect of the things they had found in common.

"What makes you so interested in these things? Most people are oblivious to our history unless researching it for religious reasons." Gravia asked. Suki shrugged as she tried to think up a satisfactory answer. Really, it would feel dishonest to tell anything but the truth. Even so, Suki did not wish to reveal too much about herself, lest it cause problems, and she fall into suspicion. And yet Suki wanted all the answers that she could have. Now. Right now.

Suki proceeded to explain her situation. But not to specifically. . .

"Well. . ." Suki started to look away, making sure no one else was watching. "I just. . . . had an ordeal. . . where. . . someone. . . . tried to kill me. . ." Suki faltered. But she wasn't done just yet. Another detail proceeded from her lips, and one which Gravia might have already guessed of. . . . "Because" Suki began "-of. . . who I am." She confided softly. The librarian looked down at her with a concerned expression. Finally, the lady spoke.

"You mean Kire?" She asked uncertain if this was the event Suki was talking about, or by some mistake she had listed another.

"Yes, he tried to kill me." Suki spoke half softly, hoping to move on somewhat and think on nicer things.

"Yes. . . that is very. . . . peculiar." The librarian answered, gazing into the wall as if summoning information from the back of her mind.

Suki had to know more. Suki HAD to know why Kire wanted her dead, as well as the reasoning behind his methods of doing so.

"Why would he do it?" Suki asked in distress. The Librarian took a few moments to answer. Her slow speech was not welcome to Suki's ears. . .

"I don't know why for sure." The librarian began. "But Kire is from one of the most resilient islands in resisting the Latise. I'm not sure if his reasons were merely political, religious or biological. . ." The mongoose looked at Suki with a concerned expression. The words went right over Suki's head, until she thought about it for a little.

"Biological?" Suki asked with a funny look in her eye. The librarian just merely shook her head in agreeance with the mental intuition. Suki immediately denied such obligations. Her head shaking more violently than Mami mixing up a jar of smoothie in her hands.

"I don't think so." Suki repudiated. "He certainly didn't sound like it when he tried to come after me. It was pretty much all 'I'm gonna kill you here and now!' more than anything else. I really doubt that. . . " Suki continued as she turned her head away to look at various books stuffed amongst the shelves. Gravia picked up a specific article from the shelf and began fingering through the pages, continuing the conversation. She had a few things to tell Suki, for her own benefit of course. Not that Suki would like hearing it, but if she had to know. . .

"Well. . . . the news most certainly made it out to be one of those situations." Gravia remarked, continued in a concerned matter. "But you were there. I noticed the article didn't have any quotes from you" The mongoose pointed out. She looked over at the little girl and waited for a response. But Suki didn't make one until she had dwelt on it for a little bit. Only then did Suki reveal what had happened the day before. . .

"My parents wouldn't let the news come bother me." Suki stated. "I was told to go upstairs, and that my parents would deal with it. I didn't want answer questions for all those reporters. They're so rude! They just want to hear about a tragedy so they can make money off it it. . . .The news is terrible." Suki confided looking downward upon the floor. Gravia was about to speak up, save Suki had more to say. . . .

"And Narabot has no recollection of what happened the other night. Someone erased his memory, and he saved me! Why would they erase Narabot's memory? It doesn't make any sense!" Suki complained.

"Maybe they didn't want to have to worry about Narabot being used as a source in news reports. . . " Gravia trailed off. "But I can't say for sure."

"Gravia." Suki asked. "What does Kire's religious beliefs have to do with all of this?"

Gravia turned away and suddenly became silent. Suki could see the ears drooping off the Mongoose's head before she finally replied. It wasn't a happy thought for her to think about. . .

"Very well." Gravia began soberly. "Let me tell you what Kire, and his tribe believed. The legends they passed down and what we know as historians. It isn't a kind tale, nor one with a happy ending. Some say it is nothing but the prologue to a legend waiting to be finished." She said half miserably.

"For it isn't over yet. . . . "

. . .

"Kire is one of many immigrants sent here to the Latise to be trained as soldiers. A long time ago, the Eli, once controlled by the Nato joined as one and used the Dream Crown to gain signs of the future, and predict their enemies movements. . ." Gravia started her tale.

"Although put away by most people who talk about it. There were certain others of the Eli who could see things in dreams and sense when the crown was nearby. However, because of the fierce power of these people, and due to the oppression which they caused. . . they were hunted down. . ." Gravia continued. . .

"The new union, of the higher Eli, and the Nato becoming the backbone of their civilization, thus, our hierarchy came forth. It is the very one that we have today. Even Michad is of this order, as you already know. But he has no powers, or so it has seemed. People feared that the hierarchy would overrule them as normal people if they had such powers. So the characteristics were bred out of them."

"Michad is a half breed." She stated. "Many of his fathers could not sense the Dream Crown parts, his great grandfather is the last one who could. . . .But then they found you. A miracle if you ask anyone on the island. I still don't rightly understand it. But you Suki can sense the Dream Crown and it's currents, and for years, the Latise has had no such person under them to help.

"Me?" Suki asked caringly, still a little uncertain over all the different information. "I'm not a miracle. . . " Suki shrugged. "My parents abandoned me. . . .and Omycid took me in. . . . it makes me feel like a tool somewhat. . . and I don't like to think I was adopted for what I was." Suki frowned, and began to think about how without her real parents, she couldn't stand to think that her false ones were just using her for their own profit. But Omycid and Mami really did care about her. She could see it in their eyes. Either that, or she didn't understand what love really was. Suki's thoughts were interrupted by the further speakings of Gravia. She wasn't done quite yet, and still had a ways to go.

"How old were you?" The librarian asked. She had to admit, the Dream Crown and all associated with it was her fancy of things to study. To know more about Suki would be all the more interesting. But any information gathered may be used to help Suki out too. It would go both ways after all, as would many things in life.

"I was. . . . 5!" Suki stated. "And I remember my parents. . . I have dreams about them. . . but nothing more! I was in the orphanage since I was 3. . . but. . . I. . . remember living with them. . in a forest!" Suki exclaimed.

"You have. . . false memories.. . . . . " The mongoose continued.

"-That I made up because of trauma." Suki faltered. "That's what I'm told by the Psychologist. It's gotten. . . a lot better over the years. . . but. . . I'm quite fine without thinking about it!"

"Of course. Of course." Gravia leaned over and hugged Suki. She didn't want her to feel uncovered anymore. But the rest of her story, she had to finish. When her hug lasted a number of moments and Gravia felt it was okay to go on. She did. Just hoping that Suki wouldn't be afraid of her heritage or just how dangerous she may be.

If used in the wrong hands. . .

"No one really talks about it. . . " Gravia began. "But the Latise loves to conquer. Our island is small, but we love conquering smaller ones. . . " She continued on. "The Expoditionaries. . . . . were groups of boats sent out to conquer, or trade with them. If the Latise wanted an island as it's own, they could create a situation which would make the natives aggressive first and then have a legal grounds to cause war. Kire, I don't know much about, but I believe he comes from the same island as our Dream Crown extractor captain, Jake. Artona is the bird's island." She revealed-

"-And they have a terrible legend and prophesy about the one who will 'see the crown' someday. Just like times past, when the leader Eli, in command of the stronger in number Nato attacked them, they used the Dream Crown as a means to predict their moves. It was the great Champion Alactone, of the Fier who killed Mirahk. . . . " She started. . .

"And his wife destroyed the remaining crown."

"Our government went into chaos for 120 years." She stated as her head turned to look off into the ceiling. "Until a new lineage succeeded from Mirahk's hidden offspring. They had to fight for their inheritance, and rumor's spread of the location of the many Dream Crown parts.

"How did the Dream Crown parts get spread apart?" Suki asked in sincere fashion. "I remember somewhat, but it's been a while. When you tell me these stories, you have details I've never heard before, And you tell. . . ."

"Of the Darker side of the Latise?" Gravia mused. "Oh yes Suki. It's downplayed in your history, but it's no secret to the rest of us. The older generation remembers" She continued. "But you should hear of Mirahk's wife, Valia. It's quite an interesting factor, and she's the reason we have the mess with we have today. . . " She continued. Only hinting at the beginning of the vast legacy her people had today.

"Mirahk's wife Valia, spread the Dream Crown parts across the ocean. She had hoped that by hiding them she could force others to do what she wanted, and then bring them back together when she was ready. Only 3 were recovered before she got rid of them, the last piece being held with her in a boat of which she fled in. Then she was pulled by a mystic force under the water at Black Marge. . . . She was escaping angry family members who sought to kill her for creating controversy over the throne and hiding the sacred crown."

"All that. . . .just for a relic of power. . . " Suki spoke is subtle awe. It was back when she was 8 years old that she had been taught this history. Only now had it become relatively important to her, but now she had to react to it. Set before her was a choice. A choice to continued down the path of the other Eli and become an oppressor, or a choice to not do it, and try to be someone who would stand for something. And relieve the people of oppression. Wasn't Suki to be a higher governor or leader someday? Or wait. . .

What if Omycid and Michad's plan was to marry her off to some mobian she had never met before? Suki never thought about it, but she was getting older. Maybe she would be put in a position of power and help Omycid "establish the old ways that brought us peace." Someday. Yet again, maybe she was seen as a kind of breeding material.

. . .

If she was married to someone else someday, and her husband was part of the government rather than her by herself, she might have less power in that realm. Suki hated the idea of becoming a pawn. But it was still a long ways off. Oh well. Omycid didn't agree with everything the Latise did. But that didn't stop him from gaining support and having a quiet movement to change things.

Suki thought about what Gravia had said about Kire. That prophesy- Suki had to know more about it.

"Um, Gravia?" Suki asked in a more upbeat tone. "What. . . did the prophesy say about. . . me. . . the. . . one who would see the crown?"

Gravia just gave and frowning smile on her face.

"I don't know word for word, but form what I've research. He, or she. . . . in this case. . . will be the instrument of the death for thousands. . . even the Eli's own people. . . " Gravia stated, with still a little more to say.

"The person who will.'see the crown' will use his or her powers to see the future, dream dreams, and manipulate the currents. . . . all for the benefit of his or her own race."

"I won't do that." Suki enstated. "I won't do what my ancestors did, and repeat the evils of torturing other's who were just minding their own business." She smiled, shaking her head up and down twice quickly to add to the effect. Gravia merely smiled back.

"Suki. . . . " The librarian started. . . . "The Artona never prophesied much. . . but when they did. . . they were always right. . . . and Suki. . . " Gravia wished to add one more detail to the entire picture.

"It's possible. . . . . . . that you were abandoned because you fit those very words."

Suki removed herself from the Library, feeling better about what she had learned and having a stronger grip on the situation. The first that which surprised her was Narabot's presence upon leaving the building. Narabot was talking to a normal citizen, yet she almost didn't care. Now, it was very abnormal for Narabot to do that, and Suki sortof wanted to know why, but with Chryssy's new programs, she already knew what was going on.

Narabot stared at Suki as she walked by. He had noticed that she hadn't even acknowledged him. The robot had to start moving and cut his conversation short just to keep up with the little girl.

As Narabot caught up with a happy white hedgehog, Suki placed her mind deep into the words which Gravia had given her. The things about the Latise, the Dream Crown. Michad, Vactona, Plus Kire and Jake's home island. Her last words before she left the library also echoed in her mind. It was very kind of her to invite her to her house anytime she needed. Even writing her address on a piece of paper and handing it too her.

"You can come by my house anytime you want really." She invited. "It would be really nice to have some company." She smiled after making that statement.

Maybe Suki would drop down there someday, maybe after she had some more questions which demanded answers. That was the intent of Gravia by her invitation anyways. Suki could only admire such humility and kindness. It made her smile to think about it and feel a little good inside.

Soon Suki's mind moved onward to young Chryssy. Her one and only friend outside of occasional acquaintances, and someone who was willing to help her, whatever the task might be. Chryssy was energetic, and not as mature as Suki. But Chrysanium had to be given some slack. She had never seen the things that Suki had seen. Certainly nothing dark and deep like Maugus of the Ifrit dimension, how else would she be expected to act? Maybe she had gathered some sweet info on what they should do next, and maybe what to expect. The only way to find out was to meet her at the base. If she could meet her before the mission briefing that is. Otherwise she would have to wait. . . .

Now Narabot had come up, and went to tap Suki on the back. The curious android could be ignored no longer. This characteristic had to be recognized, and was completely different from anything Narabot had ever done before. Suki turned to her side and asked him. What sort of program would Chryssy be testing this time?

"Yes Narabot?" Suki asked in a sub happy fashion. Teasing him with the song inside her voice. She wasn't sure if Narabot would get it or not, but no reason to abstain from trying. Narabot put his hands behind his back and began acting like some sort of self conscious and kind hearted boy. His new characteristics certainly were outstanding. . .

"Suki, are you feeling okay?" Narabot asked concernedly. Suki cracked a half smiled at this comment. She knew it was the product of his new programming, but maybe something good would come out of it, even it if wasn't genuine.

"Oh, I'm just fine." Suki added. "Just fine, just fine, how are YOU feeling?" She asked turning the question back at him, and toying with him a bit. Suki kept her own hands behind her back as she walked forward in large awkward strides. Waiting for Narabot's answer.

"Oooh. . . . I'm not sure how I feel. . . " Narabot confided- Also walking in a similar fashion to Suki, who of course had to wonder what this odd response meant. Slowly, she asked him a another question as they both waltzed throughout the sidewalks. Maybe this one would bring more fruit. . .

"And what might that be?" Suki asks a little deeper. Narabot has trouble bringing out an answer. . .

"I don't know. . . . " The troubled droid continued. "Perhaps it is something of a thing called a feeling." He replied. Nor really sure what he meant. This of course doubling Suki's already growing interest in this odd situation.

"And what feeling might that be?" Suki she put back at him.

"I don't know, but I'm beginning to feel complete when I am around you and Chryssy, it makes me feel. . . happy."

These words were almost powerful. Save Suki still wondering the fact if they were truly genuine.

Suki pondered for a moment and asked herself if something had happened to Narabot. Something that made him different- in a way outside of Chryssy's robot programs. At all other times Suki and Chryssy had tried programming something, Narabot had acted with false sincerity, but now Narabot had not only taken on odd characteristics, but also was trying to explain how he felt- in a very self conscious fashion. Suki didn't want to see such a radical change happen in her friend though, in fact, something inside of her welled up and wanted her to stop it! To get Narabot to act normal again! This wasn't the regular android Suki was used to associating with!

"Another program that makes you act nicer?" Suki teased, almost as if she didn't know.

But it could be something different. Remember all those stories about robots who gained a soul?

"No." Narabot stated. "These command procedures take different command routes, it is as if. . . .

Suki waited for it.

"Ah ha! I am acting unreasonably and must get myself cleaned and defragged immediately. Thank you Suki." Narabot walked up to her and suddenly grabbed her hand.

"Our conversation has been most helpful!" He shook it up and down most gratefully as Suki violently bounced up and down.

"But I didn't help you with anything!" Suki spoke even more adversely than last time. But it was too late.

Narabot walked off like some kind of a drunken fool, skipping and jumping happily. Suki watched in awe as he faltered across the sidewalk and danced around an incoming person walking their cat before grabbing a street light and spinning around it as if in some kind of mystical dance.

Oh boy. Thought Suki. Here he goes again. . . .

. . .

Walking up to the military base she was so familiar with, thoughts swam through Suki's head. It was a religious prophesy that had to do with Kire's actions. Or at least so it seemed. Kire came from the same island of Artonha which Jake did. Suki began to think for a moment and wondered what Jake might think of her.

If Jake even cares about his native people, and what they think. . . he must already know what to expect of me. She pondered for a moment. But then, would he be as nice to her as he always was?

Suki dwelt even more deeply. Jake didn't really have anything against Suki. To him, she was just another soldier, another ally to keep safe. Jake never really talked about his past, or where he came from. Suki assumed the same thing as Kire and others had said. They came here to be soldiers serving under the Latise. Their families were poor and often too tribal to create any kind of trade or prosperity on their own. Perhaps Jake had quite a different perspective on life than she did. Maybe Jake was too laid back to even care about that stuff like religious roots, or prophecy. In fact, Suki wasn't rightly sure where he had come from. Too be honest, Suki only assumed that Jake had come from Artonha, the bird's isle, or Valatise, her own country. Even someone as studied as Gravia, Suki was not certain knew all the details. Jake Suki never really did spend time around. But probably because he already had his group of friends- all guys. And a girl like herself would be kindof embarrassed or self conscious to spend time with a group of friends like that- and Kire.

In fact, Kire never really liked her. Suki had gained a number of insults from others who were just jealous of her. After all, She was raised in high society. No wonder that some more childish individuals would simply insult her and send her on her way.

All these facts were yet to be collected, and even more so, Suki still had to hear Chryssy's end of the report- If she had gained one. Suki had quite a bit of information herself. A lot of it she already knew, but her own history course had only vaguely covered the Dream Crown and it's uses. Gravia had revealed a completely new side to it. And Suki knew Chryssy would be interested in anything she might share on their collective theory. But Suki also wondered if Chryssy had actually made any progress in her task. Perhaps she would all come back with nothing. But who knows, it's all a fair guess in this stealthy game. Chryssy could come back with anything.

It wasn't long before Suki had been called to the mission briefing room along with several others. A bit of a shiver went down her spine as she thought about Black Marge, but the Latise had several ships and forces at their disposal. The amount of soldiers there present would be huge, in fact a large portion of the navy would be there just to make sure that nothing could capture them of those mysterious waters.

Suki wasn't sure what lie ahead. A ghost, some giant black squid like ancient legends told? Or a completely new creature never documented before. This evil creature ate the wife of Mirahk long, so long ago, pulling under the waters, and delivering her from the hands of her persecutors, of course to never surface again.

Suki thought about this legend, and wondered if the Latise was really prepared to take it on. Furthermore, was there something. . . she could do. . . . to stop it? Not the monster, but Michad? From getting one of the last few dream crown parts? Those concerning thoughts from earlier, her remembering of her dream. The history of the Eli, and the Nato, these things began to worry Suki yet again. But what could she do to stop it? She was just one girl, and there were over a legion of soldiers serving in the military. She needed more information to go forward, to try and stop what was going on, She also needed support, but how would she get it? Chryssy had more access to files and such than her. Perhaps she could figure out something later with Chryssy's help. And Omycid. Suki knew he didn't see eye to eye with Michad. But maybe even he wouldn't swallow Suki's tall tale and suspicions. Speaking to Maugus certainly wasn't scoring her any points on the sanity scale. . .

But Suki remembered. While her opinion of the Latise was changing, viewing it as a more skeptical, evil government, Chryssy was becoming more integrated in it. Assisting Michad with the production of droids, and endlessly working on machines and mechanizations, Chryssy was an interesting tomboy. Michad applauded her for her talent, as he knew Chryssy had a hard time when she first came here. In fact, that was how she had gotten so good at what she did. She directed her anger and frustration into mechanical building, and look where it had gotten her. She also had a resilient ability to move on from things. Something that both of them shared- and appreciated.

These thoughts finished swimming around in Suki's head. They had to, she had made it too the briefing room it was time to overlook their mission. Once seated in her desk, Suki pinpointed several of the usual faces, but not as many as should have been there. Probably they weren't needed as this would be an ocean water mission. Also. . . some sort of. . . . mannequin was standing in front of the mission's display screen- covered with a sheet. What it might be was the question in Suki's mind. Several guesses manifesting themselves, aimed at the identity of this strange, covered object.

Suddenly, it became apparent to her.

It was a robot.

Interesting. Suki thought. I wonder what this one will do. Is it just a new. . . gizoid alteration or something? Must be pretty important for our mission if they're showing it here. I wonder. . . if it's made to go underwater or something like that! Suki became excited. Her thoughts were, of course, interrupted by the instructor. No longer the friendly girl that Suki was used to seeing, but a bald, pessimistic, glasses wearing, thin scientist of some sort. . .

Oh dear. . .

"Ahem." He started in almost some kind of a squeeky voice. He seemed a bit upset at the moment, and awkward, not that Suki really cared. The odd man cleared his throat once more before speaking. This time with a cough, bringing up his fist to block it, as apparently only the second ahem is worth covering to avoid the spreading of germs. . .

"It appears. . . ." the man began, looking over the entire troop to make sure everyone was paying attention.

"-That you will be investigating the waters of Black Merge. A dangerous operation doubtlessly." He explained. At this moment, the usual instructor walked in, A man with black hair and a look of astuteness upon his head. This was the man Suki was used to answering too before and after a campaign. Not a quirky, odd haired tech guy.

"And after spending over 300 hours on the Molonex project, our third android has been produced." The scientist walked over and pulled the the sheet off the supposed mannequin. Suki was stunned. It was a robot that looked very much like Narabot.

But at the same time, very different.

"Meet Aranoid. MK III." The professor instructed as the room began to fill with clapping from many different enthusiastic individuals. Suki merely dropped her jaw and became speechless. Could this be the third android model they had been waiting for, for so long? No way it could already be out. Suki knew Narabot was over a year old, but were they really ready for the next unit in this dynamic series? It was predicted that the next module would be out within two years of the second, but not this early.

"This new module. . . is ahead of schedule. . . and has many new features which we regret the first two did not have. . . " he continued. "For one. . . our new robot is sensitive to Dream Crown wave lengths. Like the gizoids, he can roughly pinpoint the location of such a particle, for longer periods of time, however inconsistent. Our previous model. . . couldn't do that. . . " He stated in a pessimistic list of belittling remarks.

"The new android is equipped with gyro tethers which allow for greater air movement, and control. But most of all, he is 37% overall stronger in armor. Allowing him to take more blows, with a near equivalent to level 3 military grade armor. Quite an improvement if you ask me. . . " he continued. Soon the screen behind him turned on, and a first person view of Narabot fighting Maugus began playing.

"This is rare footage of the battle which took place against our unknown enemy. We are not playing it for your benefit, nor entertainment, but to show you the struggles, and problems our previous creation faced in battle. By watching these videos, we were able to determine what Aranoid MK II had done wrong, and correct them in the improved intelligence build of Aranoid MK III. Your new companion for finding the Dream Crown pieces. . . will the this droid." The scientist put his hands in a gesturing motion to the android, who suddenly turned on for the occasion.

Suki became shocked.

No more Narabot? She thought to herself? Certainly not, he couldn't be just. . . thrown away, he was to useful! And two robots is better than one right? Suki had to raise her hand, the scientist immediately recognizing it and giving her a chance to speak on the matter. Suki was obliged.

"Ummm. . . excuse me. . but. . . does this mean no more Narabot?" Suki asked. The scientist just looked at her funnily, till the usual instructor walked over to his ear and whispered something.

Nodding his head, then returning his focus to Suki, the scientist grabbed his belt and pulled it upward some, readjusting himself before answering the question.

"I't appears that you have addressed, 'Narabot-'" He said distastefully. "-By his lessar known 'Nick-Name'" He added, also stating "Nick-Name" In a an utterly disgusted manner.

"The proper name of 'Nar-oh-bot'" He emphasized the word "bot" as a separate word as he continued his sentence. "-Is Aranoid MK II, showing how he is a previous model to our newer, better android module- with-OUT a childish 'Nick-Name'" He stated. Clearly demonstrating just what he thought of Suki and Chryssy's loving name they had crafted for their long time companion. A frown planted itself on Suki's face in protest, but the scientist wasn't done talking yet.

"You see, it is very important that we know all of our modules numbers, especially if we are to mass produce them someday. You understand?" He asked downwardly. Looking at Suki as if she had said something simply awful, and it would never end. The girl only staring forward and waiting for him too look at some other troops in the briefing room so that she could roll her eyes. Suki could not believe this.

Suddenly, a new voice shouted from behind Suki. But this one wasn't from anyone important. . .

"Sure you want to call them both Aranoid?" It started out sarcastically. "How will we distinguish their scores in the arcade machine?". The room burst out in laughter, causing the scientist to look left and right with one eyebrow uplifted. Finally, the normal instructor whom Suki was more used too walked over and patted the strange man on the shoulder. The scientist stepping aside upon receiving another whispered message from behind. Finally- someone Suki was familiar with had taken control, she smiled as he addressed the assembly. Making sure to answer Suki's question as well as anything else that might come up- without all the pointless nitpicking.

"Yes, Suki, Narabot will no longer be in service once we obtain the final dream crown particle, but it's likely Michad and Chryssy have some plans for him." The man explained. "Narabot has been suffering a few odd glitches lately, and it wouldn't be wise to use him as of now, let alone much further. We're afraid we may have made his programming to malleable. Even though he does operate according to a code. . . . he does seem to drift away from it, and besides . . . "

The words of the man became nothing but an echo in the background as Suki's eyes met the gaze of another. The new android model was staring at her, and had been doing so for the last 5 minutes with averting his attention away. His gaze with a single eye haunted her almost, it was as if he was looking into her soul.

Suddenly, a familiar voice came up.

"You shouldn't have taken it with you today. . ." The threatening voice of Maugus echoed. Suki's hair began to stand up, but as a moment passed, she began to relax and feel cool with talking to the lethal monster.

"Thought you were dead. I knew even though you didn't answer me this morning that you were still around. The the cut in half ordeal had me wondering for a while." Suki thought. . . "I have to admit. . . . you are tricky. . . ." She added, recalling Maugus's sudden appearance within the Eggcarrier, and second attempt at her life.

Suki wouldn't underestimate Maugus this time. . .

"I don't need to worry about death once I have already passed it." He stated. "You are very lucky something doesn't happen to you now. . ." Maugus hinted as Suki thought about the dream crown piece she had taken in with her today. Maugus had to laugh.

"Why not leave it at home?"

"Because. . . " Suki answered. "You would get it. . . I know you're up to something. I knew you weren't really dead. . . " She stated, giving her knowledge of Maugus's intentions.

"Hua ha ha ha ha ha ha haAAA!" Maugus laughed. "And now what do you suppose he's thinking. . . " Suki's gaze was directed at the android who was still looking at her. Suki knew he could sense what she had. . .tThere was no hiding it. . .

"I'm guessing he knows I must have something." Suki surmized at Maugus's menacing remarks. "But I won't give in just yet." She forwarded. "I have a job to do, and it's to make sure that people like you don't use that old crown to take over anything or kill anyone they're not supposed too."

Maugus deep chortle menaced boldly. The evil creature was not amused.

"You have no idea who I am, or what I plan to do, but I will give you this." The demon sneered as Suki began to feel pale again.

"I'm watching you, but you're ever resilient! Ha ha Hua!"

Maugus disappeared, and Suki continued to pay attention till the end of the briefing. Within 30 minutes, it was up. And Suki could return to her work. Much to Suki's surprise, Chryssy had been sitting three rows behind her, somehow she had slipped in unnoticed. Suki had gotten too focused on the briefing to pay attention when it had happened.

"Chryssy!" Suki exclaimed. "What happened?!" She had to know why Chryssy was in the briefing room with them. It had been forever since Chryssy had been on mission with them. And the thought of such a situation happening was very exciting to her.

"Easy, I'm coming with you! To Black Merge!" Chryssy responded with glee.

"A field mission? Really?" Suki beamed. Chryssy closed her eyes and shook her head up and down in enthusiasm. Suki could hardly believe it. Chryssy knew an explanation would be in order, so willingly she gave one.

"Michad says that seeing your own robots in action is a great way to see what you need to improve on them!" Chryssy smiled. "So I'll be there on a boat with Michad, you, Omycid, and even Jake, pretty cool, huh?"

"Yeah!" Suki exclaimed. "But there's just one problem. . . .what about. . . . "

"Narabot?" Chryssy asked. "Don't worry about him. Michad says I can do what I want with him more now that he's not our main Technical warrior." Chryssy explained. "He's gotten really glitchy, and Michad says that he thinks it's because of some of our programs, though he DID give me permission to test them on him. Michad says multi-purpose robots that can fight AND live in a world with humans might be the way of the future someday. After all, they're really useful!" She exclaimed.

"But. . . will he. . . " Suki looked away and became somewhat afraid to ask the question, but she knew she had to ask.

". . . Will he still be fighting with us?"

"Yes!" Chryssy exclaimed. "It's only best to use all the forces that we can. After all, the monster of Black Merge is going to give us a fight, it's because he could sense the location of the Dream Crown pieces that he pulled it under with the widow Valia. Have you heard that rumor yet?" Chryssy asked. Suki could only respond in one way.

"No, but I'll bet you found all sorts of stuff out today. Here, why don't we go back to my place. . . there we can discuss everything in front of the TV. Fair enough?"

At this moment. Narabot walked in. He heard the last comment, and zipped over to answer before Chryssy could.

"Of course." The robot replied though the question had nothing to do with him. "I love spending time with my friends" The robot put his arms around both of them.

"Uhhhh. . . Chryssy?" Suki asked a little unsure of what to think about all this.

"I'm still working on it, okay?" Chryssy stated. "Don't worry, Narabot will become balanced once I get the programming right!" Chryssy ginned.

"Can I cease these strange impulsive actions? They don't go well with my core programming. I feel funny." Narabot complained before looking right and taking his arms away from Suki and Chryssy.

*sigh* Suki let out in a relief. Oh well, at least Narabot made everything seem new and interesting! If he wasn't overly weird.

Oh well, such was the life of Suki!