Love and Laughter: Slumming It

Love and Laughter:
Slumming It

(Tilor)

What a marvelous day it was on the Floating Islands! Thousands citizens filled the streets with music and merriment. Others hung flags in honor of this great holiday. Confetti rained from the sky. Parades of musicians and entertainers marched down the streets. Yes, that was a great day indeed. You see, it was my twentieth birthday.

While thousands of people were making merry in my honor, I sat in the castle completely bored! I had enough birthday cake in my belly to make me puke. The birthday presents were ok. A new hover chariot, a couple concubines....you know, the usual stuff. In spite of that, I was bored out of my mind. I was so glad when my best friend in all the world, Tkkla Ataka, showed up. I knew if I hung out with him, things were bound to get very interesting.

{Tkkla!} I shouted as my best friend entered the throne room. {Thank the gods you showed up!}

{Since when do you ever praise the gods, Your Highness?} Tkkla replied in a mock bow. We were of the same social status--royalty. {So, having a good birthday?}

{I'll have a good birthday five years from now.}

{But twenty's a marvelous age.}

{You can't claim the throne at twenty.}

{True, true. Any interesting presents?}

{Nothing I haven't already gotten. Tkkla, I am bored stiff! If I stay in the palace any longer, next thing you know, I'll be desperate enough to ask Vasah for help!}

{Ooh! Let's hope it doesn't come to that.}

{I suppose that's the price of royalty; you have to be protected at all costs while the commoners are out there, celebrating.} That brought a smile to Tkkla's face. I've only seen it when he's ready to torture someone or has a really good idea. {Tkkla, what's on that warped mind of yours?}

{What if we were to pose as commoners?} he pondered. {If we so happen to be in the country side, where no one would recognize us?}

{No!} I went in a mock gasp. {Sneak out of the palace? Go out there where we will be vulnerable to assassins and the such?} I quickly dropped to the floor and grabbed his legs. {Take me with you, please!}

{I don't know, Tilor...} he replied in a singsong manner. {Your Pahda wouldn't be very pleased if you snuck out. Remember what happened the last time?}

{I wasn't twenty the last time.} I said. {Relax, he won't even notice I'm gone.} I got up and stood in a very straight manner. {I, Prince Tilor Ritua, of the house of Ritua, hereby proclaim that I shall go out to the countryside and explore the happenings of the commoners. I will research on what they eat, how they sleep, observe on how they walk and talk, and--with any luck--explore their females at my own risk!}

(Tkkla) Tilor and I went into one of the servants' quarters to find some common clothing to wear on our outing. I couldn't believe the cheapness of the fabric and the tackiness of the outfit. Prince Tilor seemed to notice too.

{These cheap materials had better not chafe my skin, friend.}

{Don't worry, it's only for today.}

We hid the clothing in a sack and headed for the harem. Tilor ordered the guards to see to it that we were not disturbed. After Tilor sealed the chambers, we changed into our outfits before the curious concubines.

{So, Tkkla, how's your daughter, Tifa? She's eight cycles now, correct?}

{Yes, she is. She's had her first growth spurt so you know she's a bag of emotions and hormones now. I left Fikkia to deal with her.}

{So that's why they couldn't join the party.}

{No worries. As long as Kia keeps her inside there shouldn't be any problems. There! How do I look?}

{Like a bonified commoner!}

{Great! Then let us depart, my friend!}

{Hold a moment Tkkla...}

Tilor walked around me slowly looking me up and down. He finally reached up and mussed my hair a bit.

{There! Perfect! Now let's go.}

{To the streets, my friend, to taste of the common life! And their women if we get the chance!}

{Here, here!}

(Pijol) I couldn't take it any more. The dirt, the grime, the back aches, the stench, and those damned chicken feathers! I was so glad when Pahda gave me a break from the farm work. A delicate girl like me wasn't meant for that gross drudgery. What I was meant for was sitting quietly under a tree to enjoy a good book while munching on some sun fruit. I remember what I was reading that day. It was a novel called "The Unexpected Visitor." It was about a young woman who gets a surprise visit from a prince who falls madly in love with her, and gives up everything to be with her. It's a nice piece of fiction, but I doubted something like that could happen in reality.

{Hmph. I'm lucky if a decent looking common man comes around here. Most of them in The Valley have very few teeth and even less brains. And the ones with money are at death's door. Oh, what a putrid life I live!}

I looked up from my book when I heard someone coming up the road. A couple of handsome young men were headed towards me. And when I say handsome, I do mean VERY handsome! I remember thinking luck had surely shined upon me this day! Their hair was lustrous, their eyes were clear, and they had all their teeth! And best of all, they were clean! I was so glad I washed up really good before taking my break. As they approached I looked back down at my book, pretending I hadn't noticed them.

(Tilor) Tkkla and I had made our way down to the area of Patani called The Valley. We were enjoying the fresh air and the freedom. There was only one problem. Finding a decent female to play with.

{Augh, Tilor! Do you think we'll ever find a woman who we don't have to disinfect before we can even touch her?}

{I hope so! You'd think the women out here never heard of soap!}

{Hold on, my friend. I think our luck might have changed. Look over there.}

Tkkla brought my attention to a young girl sitting under a sun fruit tree. Like a jewel in a garbage heap, she stood out from her mundane surroundings. 'Farm girl' was the last thing that came to mind while looking at her.

(Tkkla)
The young girl was reading a book and didn't seem to notice us. But I noticed the look on Tilor's face as he saw her; I haven't seen that smile since that time he snuck out and explored the alley ways on the island. Ugh! Tilor can be such a sucker for a pretty face. Suddenly, I found myself picked up. Tilor had actually started twirling me around.

{Isn't this such a grand day?!} he shouted. {Oh, happy, happy day!}

{Tilor!} I yelled. {Put me down!!}

{But I'm so happy, Tkkla! So very, very happy!} Tilor finally let me go--right into the tree where that girl was sitting under. If I didn't know better, I could've sworn he planned this. As I crashed into the trunk, that girl moved away from me; no doubt my landing scared her.

{Tkkla!} I heard someone shout. I slowly lifted my head to find Tilor looking down from me. {Oh, no! Tkkla! He's dead, oh Vasah, he's dead!} He then started sobbing.

{What are you babbling about?!} I screamed. {I'm not dead!}

{But of course you're dead, my friend.} he replied. {Otherwise, this goddess wouldn't have come down from the heavens to fetch you.} He then looked towards the girl, who tried her hardest not to laugh. Oh, he definitely planned this, all right.

~I will get you back for this.~ I swore as Tilor went to talk with the girl. ~So help me, I will.~

(Pijol)
I looked at the strange boy that was coming towards me. He was so perfect... He or his friend couldn't possibly be from the Valley. He didn't say anything just stared. Finally I decided to speak up.

{Why are you staring at me?} I asked with a little smiled. I pretty much knew it was because I looked so good for being on a farm.

{You are the most beautiful woman beheld by a man since Tamran danced through the streets of Nazomi.}

Wow! He was well read as I was! No one else in, the Valley at least, new the old stories.

{Thank you.} I managed to get out. I was still overwhelmingly surprised by his sweet words.

I put my hand out and introduced myself.

{I'm Pijol Hurgin.}

{I'm Tilor...uh, Dugon. And this is my cousin, Tkkla Kun.}

{It's a pleasure to meet you.}

{Oh no, the pleasure is mine,} he replied as he kissed my hand. Ah, such a gentleman! Such a refreshing change from the grungy Valley boys.

{So, Pijol, tell me your story.}

{What do you mean?}

{Well, you're obviously lost, because you're definitely too delicate to be a farm girl.}

{You know, I've been thinking that for cycles. This is the first time someone has agreed with me.} While Tilor chatted me up, I noticed Tkkla out of the corner of my eye. I could tell he was checking me out too, but he wasn't being so obvious about it.

{So, how old are you, pretty Pijol?} Tilor inquired.

{I'm twelve. I'll be thirteen in a few months. How about you?}

{Today just happens to be my twentieth birthday!}

{Oh, how wonderful! Well, Happy Birthday!}

{Ah...my best gift so far.}

{What's that?}

{A birthday greeting from a beautiful girl.} That made me blush.

{So, young Master, what do you do for a living?}

{I'm, uh, a tailor. A tailor for the royal family.} I gasped with excitement.

{You don't mean THE royal family? The Rituas?}

{Why, yes, that's right.}

{Do you actually live in the palace?}

{Yes, I do.}

{Oh, you must tell me what it's like living there! It must be so exciting!} When I said that, Tkkla began to giggle.

{No, actually it's... really boring.} He relied, I was surprised.

{Well, it has to be better than working on a chicken farm!} I countered.

Tilor gasped and took my hand.

{Such a delicate lady like yourself shouldn't be working. You should be in luxury for all your life.}

I was loving every second of Tilor's attention. He treated me as I should be treated.

{Is your cousin a tailor as well?} I asked looking over at Tkkla.

{Yes, yes, I am a tailor at the palace.} he replied with a grin.

I thought he was nice and handsome, too, but not like Tilor.

{So, what brings you to the mainland?}

The two young men then looked at one another and smirked. I got the feeling there was some sort of inside joke between them.

{Well, neither of us have ever been to the mainland. We wanted to see what it was like to walk on stable ground.}

{Really? You know, I've always wanted to see the Floating Islands. Problem is I can't afford to.}

{Oh, my! How horrible! Perhaps I can work something out for you.}

{Really?! Oh, please don't be teasing!}

{I would never tease such a sweet young lady,} Tilor responded as he brushed a hand across my cheek. I'm surprised I didn't swoon from his overwhelming charms! Right when things were getting really good, I heard someone call my name. It was my idiot brother, Yukel.

{Piggy! Hey, Piggy! Pahda says come wash up for supper!}

Ugh! He was using that horrid nickname he gave me when I was a baby! He had to use it in front of the most charming and handsome man who's ever crossed my path! I was completely mortified!

(Tilor) We all looked up when we heard someone calling to my new love interest. She then got this completely horrified expression on her face. I assumed it had to be because of the name he used. Piggy. That nickname is so unbecoming of her.

{Who may I ask is that, my dear?}

{My soon to be dead brother, Yukel! Gentlemen, would you like to join me for supper? I'd love to introduce you to my family. You see they've never actually met someone refined with good taste besides me.}

{Why I'd love to Pig...uh Pijol,} I teased as I accepted her invitation. {Tkkla, how about you?}

{I don't see why not!}

As Pijol lead us to the farm house she gave her brother a 'you- are-so-dead!' look.

{Sorry to embarrass you in front of your friends, sister.} he replied with a shrug of his shoulders. {I didn't know you had company.}

Pijol's family lived in a quaint little farm house. I noticed the rustic simplicity of design, down to the hardwood kitchen floor. I was so glad that the Hurgins were the cleanest people we had come across so far. Pijol introduced us to her parents, who were preparing to put supper on the table.

{Mahda, Pahda, I'd like to introduce Master Tilor Dugon and his cousin, Tkkla Kun. Tilor, Tkkla, these are my parents, Master Lais and Lady Olka Hurgin.}

Tkkla and I bowed respectfully to the Master of the house and his Lady.

{Welcome to our home, young Masters! I'm assuming you will be joining us for supper?}

{Yes, sir! We would be delighted!}

As the Hurgins set the table and set out the food, I took in the unfamiliar scents of their food. Tkkla and I were used to rich, exotic, gourmet dishes. Their meal was simple. Meat, starch, two vegetables, and a dessert cooling on the counter. Not what we princes were used to, but it all smelled delicious.

Olka asked us all to go upstairs and wash up. Upstairs Pijol said she was already pretty clean and went to her room. While Yukel was washing up Tkkla and I fixed our hair a little. When we all got back down stairs Pijol was still up in her room.

{Where's Pijol?} Olka asked.

{Still upstairs, Mahda.} Yukel replied with grin knowing his sister was probably primping.

{Pijol hurry up! Dinner's ready!} Lais called.

A few seconds latter Pijol came down. Not the work clothes she had on before, but, a simple flower print dress. I was completely entranced as she flawlessly descended the stairs.

{Good evening, young masters.} she said when she reached the bottom. This time I was the one tongue-tied.

(Tkkla) Oh my, how that girl had captured my friend's affections! She was definitely a charmer. She sashayed over to the table and sat down across from us. The food on the table wasn't the only thing looking delicious!

Tilor an I were the main attraction during the meal, of course. Pijol's parents were asking all sorts of questions.

{So, young masters, what are your professions?}

{My cousin and I are tailors in the palace. We were handpicked by Emperor Rutor himself. Isn't that right, Tilor?}

At first, Tilor didn't answer. He was too busy gazing at pretty Pijol. I nudged him in the side.

{Huh? Oh, yes! That's right! Handpicked by the Emperor himself! Absolutely!}

Boy, Tilor really had it bad. I thought the girl was quite attractive too, but I wasn't going to let her cause me to lose my focus.

After dinner, Tilor, Pijol, and I went for a walk along the Crystal River. Although Pijol walked between us, Tilor seemed to have most of her attention. I decided not to compete with him too much because the girl had finally noticed my marriage bracelet. I knew I should have taken it off, but it was too late for that. No matter. I planned on paying a little visit to Bright Street later on anyway. Fortunately, the three of us did manage to have a little fun by the river. Nothing too intimate, but intimate enough.

When the suns began to set, we walked Pijol back to the house. We said our good-byes and made plans to keep in touch. From the look on Tilor's face I could tell our little outing wasn't a complete waste.

{All right, dear friend. Where are we headed now?}

{I want to make a stop at Bright Street to pay someone a visit.}

{That wouldn't happen to be Madame Niku, would it?}

{But of course.}

Business was just picking up at the brothel. That was mostly because many of the clients were just getting off work for the day. Just about everyone recognized me and made room for me to enter the foyer. Milollee was down in the lounge welcoming new clients and greeting the regulars. When I made it over to her, Milollee was showing a client our list of girls.

{Evening, Mimi.}

{Oh, hello, Lord Tkkla! What brings you here?}

{Oh, just stopping by to see how things are going. Is Madame Niku here?}

{Why yes, she is. She's up in her quarters.}

{Good. I'll pay her a visit then. Tilor, if you like, Madame Milollee can be of service.}

{No thanks. I'll just wait here and have a few drinks.}

I thought that was odd for my friend to turn down a little fun with the girls. I didn't ponder that very long. I was looking forward to spending some time with the amazing Madame Niku.

(Lsa)
I was always afraid when we did this. I was one of Rio's girls; none of the other Shanks were allowed to touch me, especially Umbor Casta.

{Farwell, my pretty Niku.} He whispered in my ear before kissing me on the cheek.

I watched as he descended the fire escape and into the shadows of the alley way. I had just closed the window and fixed the curtain when I heard a knock at my door. I turned around to see Lord Tkkla come through the door. He was dressed like a common man.

{Evening, Madame Niku. Am I interrupting anything?}

{Oh, no, my Lord. I was just changing my sheets.} As I stripped the bed, I observed him out of the corner of my eye. I thought it was very odd for him to be dressed that way. I've seen him dressed in casual clothes, but not cheap ones.

After putting clean sheets on the bed, Tkkla said he needed to use my shower.

{Go right ahead, my Lord. You know you don't need to ask.}

{I'm going to need some company,} he added as he took my hand. I should have known that was coming. Of course I accommodated him with a smile. In the back of my mind I was thinking 'why does he have to shower me with so much attention? There are lots of other girls here who are much prettier than me.' Everyone at the brothel knew that Tkkla favored me over all the others. He often paid me visits and gave me expensive gifts. The others thought I was so lucky to receive this attention. I didn't feel the same way. Don't get me wrong. The man was very handsome and the sex was superb, but I didn't love him. It was the same thing with Rio. There was only one man I wanted to be with, and he had to sneak to see me.

(Tilor) A little over an hour later, Tkkla came back down to the lounge looking quite satisfied.

{Well, Tilor, I hope you weren't too bored down here waiting for me.}

{Not at all, Tkkla. Milollee was telling me how she and Rio recently got married.}

{Oh, really? When did that happen?}

{Two weeks ago.}

{So where is your marriage bracelet?}

{I left it in my quarters. I don't wear it in front of clients.}

{Oh, I see. Might not be good for business. That news brings something to mind.} Tkkla sat down on the couch next to me and Madame Milollee. {I've been considering acquiring a pitawan.}

{Oh really, my friend? Do you have someone in mind?}

{I think Niku would make a good candidate, don't you?}

{I guess I would have to agree, Tkkla. You spend almost as much on her as you do Fikkia! Speaking of which, do you think Kia will approve?}

{We shall see. If not, I can always find a way of changing her mind,} my best friend replied with a smile.

(Milollee) As I listened to the two men talk I got kind of uncomfortable. After Tkkla and Prince Tilor left I went upstairs to check on my partner, Madame Niku. I tapped on the door. I didn't want to knock too loud because I knew she might have company. We were both Madames and no longer turned tricks but we both still got visitors. Rio would come see me sometimes while I was working. Niku didn't think I knew about Umbor Casta coming to see her, but I did. When I tapped on her door once again she said it was all right to come in. When I entered the room she was lying down on the bed with a thoughtful expression on her face. I sat down on the bed next to her.

{Hey, Niku, whatcha thinking about?}

{I wish I could see him, Mimi.} She didn't have to say who. I already knew who she was talking about.

{You really love him, don't you?}

{More than anything.}

{well, Rio told me since we're married now and expecting a baby, you two can be together if you want.}

{Seriously?}

{Yes. He says he doesn't have time to deal with two females with all that's going on now.} Niku looked very happy with that news.

(Tilor)
Tkkla and I made it back to the palace later on that night. We came back in through the harem and changed back into our clothes. When we returned the common clothing to the tailor, he gave us a strange look, but said nothing. I guess he felt it best not to ask questions.

Tkkla decided to stay overnight in one of the guest rooms and leave for Tch country in the morning. We both retired for the night. Our little outing had us both exhausted. I couldn't sleep, however. I couldn't stop thinking about the girl. I was really looking forward to seeing her again. She had given me her e-mail address so I decided to send her a message. After I updated my list of friends, I got a prompt on my screen. PinkPrincess was on. What a coincidence.

(Pijol) I stayed up late that night. I was still excited about meeting Tilor. He was so charming and debonair! I wished he didn't live so far away. It's not easy to get to the Floating Islands. Not only are they hard to access because of the deadly Sinking Sands beneath them, transportation there is extremely expensive.

Tilor and Tkkla had given me their e-mail addresses and screen names. Since I was up I went online to see if he was on. My heart leaped when I saw Overlord17 on my list of online friends. I activated my webcam so he could see me as we chatted. He did the same in turn. He looked so handsome! I put on my headset and activated the voice link so we could talk.

{Hello, Tilor. I'm happy to see you made it home safely.}

{We just got in a few hours ago. What are you doing up so late?}

{Oh, just thinking about today. I really enjoyed the time we spent together.}

{I did too. I definitely want to come visit again!}

{I have no objections to that. Anyway, why are you up so late? Aren't you tired?}

{Yes, but I can't seem to get to sleep.}

{Why not?}

{Well, I have a lot on my mind, and most of it is about you.}

{Really? I'd love to hear what you've been thinking.}

Tilor leaned back in his chair and smiled as I waited for his response.

{Well, I was thinking how I could carry you off to the Floating Islands, away from the work and the farm. We'd spend our days watching the suns and our nights in the ultimate pleasure.}

{Oh, I don't think you'd want me in your bed. With the lack of compatible men in the Valley, I might not have the experience to satisfy you.}

{You're a virgin?!} I nodded. Tilor looked at me and gave a big laugh. {What do you know? All my life, I thought you were extinct!}

{You're such a goof! I'm surprised you're not the court jester.}

{That's what my Pahda always says. He keeps nagging me to take things seriously and the such. But what's the point of living life if you can't even enjoy a decent laugh?}

{Sometimes it's hard to find something to laugh about.}

{It is? I haven't noticed.}

{I wish I could see you again, in the flesh that is.}

{Well...you never know; I might just drop in when you least expect it.}

Before long it was back to the boring routine of palace life. The sitting in on business meetings, personal lessons in diplomacy, making the occasional public appearance to help maintain public relations...oh the boredom was sometimes maddening! At least I got to hang out with my good friend Ginny, Chief of Covert Operations. She greeted me on the Western Terrace with a high five.

{Prince Tilor! How's it goin?} I responded with a loud sigh. {That bad huh? I know the feeling. I always look forward to doing field work. There's nothing really going on in the palace.} Our conversation was cut short when Ginny's pager phone went off. {Hey, Master T, what's up? Yeah, he's right here with me. Hold on. Tilor, it's Tkkla. He sounds pretty upset.} When Ginny handed me the phone I found out just how upset Tkkla was.

{Why didn't you answer your pager phone?!}

{I turned it off. I've been talking on it all day long. What's wrong, friend?}

{That damned Niku Barani has betrayed me!}

{What happened?}

{She and Umbor Casta decided to leave the Shanks! Those two dumped my Liquid Love into the harbor before Falong caught them! A whole days profits gone like that!}

{Damn...that's terrible. Did they get away?}

{Umbor Casta didn't get very far before Falong shot him. He says he blew his face off. He shot Niku too, but she made it out of Silver Shank territory. We don't know if she's dead or alive. Her leaving is already causing me serious problems!}

{What type of problems?}

{A lot of my clients won't set foot in the Bright Street brothel unless they can be greeted by Madame Niku! She brought in a big hunk of my profits! How could she do this to me? After all I've done for her!}

I felt really bad for my best friend. He was crazy about that woman to the point that Fikkia was starting to get a bit jealous. She was probably glad Niku left but I'm sure she was smart enough not to let Tkkla see that!

As my best friend dealt with his own personal problems, I was making my own plans. Pijol had invited me to her graduation from Crystal Valley Academy. After that she planned on studying to become a diplomat at the local university. I was very pleased to hear that she would be living on campus. She was also excited about having the chance to study abroad. She had never been outside of The Valley. When I made it to the ceremony, the Hurgins managed to find me at the school entrance. I must have made quite an impression on Pijol's parents because they were introducing me to people as their daughter's beau. I didn't mind. I had grown quite attached to the pretty Pijol.

The graduation ceremony went smoothly. I only had one problem with it. Our class president, Betsy Young. She was half Tch, half Terran. I couldn't believe I lost the presidential race to that half-breed. Freaks like her should have never been allowed to attend our school or even live in our neighborhood. There was another one who got on my nerves just months before. A mongrel named Amaryo Wek. He's one quarter My'Kari and he was crowned King at the annual Bidi Dance. He must have cast a mind control spell on the judges. I swear these freaks are trying to take over our precious world!

After we all received our diplomas, I met up with my family. I was so happy to see Tilor made it to my graduation. He greeted me with a hug.

{I see my pretty Pijol graduated with honors. Congratulations!}

{Now it's off to university! I don't have to worry about too many expenses. I have a full scholarship!}

{Well, if you need money for anything, you can ask me, darling.}

{What? I couldn't ask you that. Besides, my parents will give me money if I need it.}

{Believe me, Pij, it would be no problem to give you money.}

{But you work so hard at the palace! I couldn't accept your hard earned money. Right now, it's my parents responsibility to provide for me while in school.} Tilor then gave me a strange look and pulled me aside.

{Pijol, Let's go someplace more private. I need to tell you something.} I figured whatever he had to tell me must be pretty important and personal for him to want to keep it private.

{Pij, before I tell you this, you must promise me you will tell no one.}

{All right. I promise. Tilor is something wrong?}

{Pijol, I haven't been completely honest with you.}

{Oh, dear,} I thought {I was afraid something like this might happen. I finally meet a decent man and it turns out he's too good to be true. Why do things like this happen to me?}

I backed up from him and put my hands on my hips.

{Let me guess. You're not really a tailor for the House of Ritua. You're actually a janitor or a messenger boy? Is that it?}

{No, no! Nothing like that.} he paused and thought a moment.

I shook my head. {Then what?}

{Pij, remember when I said you were prettier than Tamran of Nazomi?}

{Yes, how could I forget?}

{She's my ancestor. I am Tilor Ritua of the House Ritua.}

My eyes went wide with surprise. {He's really a prince, like in my book!} I thought.

(Tilor)
Pijol was true to her word and kept my secret. Once she was settled at the university I would visit her often. Naturally the more time we spent together the more we learned about each other. I found my darling Pijol was quite trustworthy. Soon, I decided to share another secret with her. But before I revealed it I had to see where she stood on her beliefs.

{Pijol,} I said. I had made another visit to her and we were walking along the campus grounds. {What do you think got you into the university?}

{Hard work, of course.} she replied. {How else would I get anywhere in this world?}

{You don't think the gods had something to do with your success, like fate or something?}

{Gods. Bah! You want to know something? I think the gods are betraying their own people. Vasah is nothing but a gyp!}

{Really now? Why think something like that? Is Vasah not our creator?}

{If he truly cared about our people, then why the hell would he allow the likes of those... those things live among us!?}

{Things?}

{Those outworlders! I can't stand them! It's one thing to have social relations with them, but the instant they mate with our kind... it's crossing the line. I swear if I have to live with one more half-breed or mongrel, I'm going to go insane!}

{So you hate the ones with tainted blood?}

{More than anything!} Oooh, this is so perfect!

{Pijol, you're my kind of gal!}

Pijol and I eventually took a break from our walk and sat beneath a tree by a pond.

{Tell me, Pijol, who was that student giving that speech at your graduation?}

{You mean the class president? That was Betsy Young. I loathe that half-breed! I ran against her for class president. Why do you want to know about her?}

{Darling, what if it was possible to rid our world of the impure?}

{Oh, that would be a wonderful thing indeed! The Chitau should make a law banning them from ever living on the planet!}

{Have you ever heard of the refiner's fire?}

{Why yes. It's used to purify metals, especially precious metals.}

{Well, I know of someone who's soul desire is to purify our world of the dregs who dare to call themselves Mimian.}

{Really? Who?}

{My Master and my god.}

{Huh?}

{You know there are other gods besides Vasah and Tinia. Let me introduce you to my Master...Wenbaran.}

(Pijol)
When we got back to my dorm quarters, we had a modest dinner. As we dined, Tilor told me of a secret group called the MATI, which stands for Mimians Against The Impure.

{You see, Pijol, we follow Wenbaran or Wensitu. You see the followers of Vasah call him 'the bringer of destruction', but in our sacred ceremonies we call him 'the bringer of purity.' It's only natural for the infidels, half-breeds, and mongrels to see our Master as destructive. They are the ones who will be destroyed. In reality, he is the refiner's fire which will purge them from our world.}

I nodded my head thinking of going to temple and hearing what they called 'Wenbaran'. As Tilor told me the truth 'Wensitu' did sound much more appropriate for it was the truth.

{I understand now, Tilor, I have been lied to. Vasah is wrong and your master is right. I am so glad you walked down that dirt path. I love you, my handsome prince.}

***

(Makel)
Ever since I found her on my stepmahda's doorstep I knew fate had brought us together. The day I found her I had gone for a walk through Merchant Village. Pahda was visiting his pitawan so I figured they wanted some privacy. I had just gotten back from clothes shopping when I saw someone laying at the foot of Dani's steps. At first I thought maybe it was a homeless person who had passed out, but she wasn't dressed like a homeless person. She was wearing a navy blue and red motocyke suit. As I got a closer look I noticed her right thigh had some sort of wound. When I bent down to see if she was conscious or even alive, I saw her face. It was the most beautiful face I'd ever seen.

I didn't want to leave the unconscious girl alone so I hollered for Dani and my Pahda. A few minutes later they came rushing out.

{Mak, what's the matter?}

{I found her laying on the steps, Pahda! She's badly injured!}

{By the gods! I think that's Lsa!} Dani gasped. She bent over her and began to open the front of her motocyke suit. {It is her! She had a birthmark on her left breast! Mak, was she breathing when you found her?}

{Yes.}

{Well, she's not now! Prepare to administer CPR!}

While Dani and I tried to revive the girl, Pahda called a medic.

It's a good thing for that girl Dani used to be a nurse. Turns out she was the girl Azon had told me he had met in the Park. I had never gotten to meet her because they went missing right before one of our visits to Dani's house. My stepmahda had been so upset. She was asking everyone if they had seen them. She even passed out flyers, did an interview for holovision, and Pahda put up some award money for any information leading to their recovery. But that had been about seven cycles ago.

I knew Dani had to be happy that Lsa found her way back to her. When Lsa came home from the hospital, my parents' and I went back over to Dani's to see how she was doing. She was doing pretty good physically but emotionally she was a wreck. Dani didn't seem to be much better off. I found out why. Azon, the boy I had loved like a brother, had been shot dead in the mean streets of Todine City.

My parents and I began to visit Dani more often since Lsa was recovered. Dani was taking Azon's death pretty hard. Lsa seemed to be expressing her grief in her own way. She was very quiet and withdrawn. Every chance I got I tried to do something to bring a smile to her pretty face. Eventually, she began to open up to me.

I found out that Lsa wasn't just suffering because of what happened to Zon. She began to tell me some things about her life before she came to the city. Apparently she came from a very abusive background. She didn't give much detail, but I could tell it had affected her deeply in a negative way.

{Dani told me how you and Zon were forced into joining that gang. Why couldn't you escape sooner?}

{Well, the way things were set up at the hideout, only one person controlled the entrance and the exit. That was Rio. For cycles he wouldn't allow the two of us to go out to deal drugs together. Said he didn't trust us. I guess the night we tried to escape Rio had his guard down.}

{Do you think it might have been a set up? I mean, how did that Hnn guy know where you were and what you were doing?}

{You know I never thought about it that way...I honestly don't know, Makel.}

I tried to spend as much private time as I could with Lsa but my mahda was being so nosey and breathing down our necks all the time. I was really glad when my parents told me that they were going on a two week cruise .

(Lsa)
Makel and I were to stay at Master Quito's house. House didn't seem the right term, to me it was mansion. Before the Meglouses left we were given the rules of the home and emergency numbers. Matra, as always, forgot how old we were and ordered us "not to tear up the house." Not even five minute after the parents left Makel dropped his shy act.

(Makel)
I only had two weeks to win that pretty red-head's heart, and that was no easy job. She didn't seem really impressed with my flirting. I told her I wasn't as good at it as my Pahda, who managed to get two women to fall for him.

{You know, Makel, you're lucky I like you. Normally I would have kicked your ass by now,} she joked. {They didn't call me Niku Barani for nothing.}

{What? Little you? I don't think you could take on someone like me, Lsa.}

{Oh really? Why not?}

{I've had martial arts training.}

{What a coincidence. So have I.}

{Oh wow! Looks like we're going to have to have a little sparring match! We have an exercise room in the basement. Are you up to the challenge?}

{Always,} she replied with a cocky smile. I couldn't wait to find out just how good she was.

(Lsa)
It didn't take me long to find out Makel's fighting style. He was big and strong. He had a lot of power in his arms and legs, especially his arms. Fortunately, I was fast, like my namesake. I always had strong legs, but the dance classes I had been taking made them even stronger. There was something else I noticed about Makel. He may have been big, yet he was very graceful and alert. It was extremely difficult to get through his defense. At the same time, it was hard for him to land a blow because I was so fast.

We both took fighting position and began eying each other up. For years I had been in similar situations, but, it was not in play. Makel may have been a rich man's son, but, he had little street in there and, so far, I had been seeing it in this fight.

{Well, Niku Barani, are you going to make your move?} Makel asked with a big grin.

{When ever your ready, big man.} I replied with my usual cockiness.

(Makel)
We were just standing there for a few minutes, so I decided to make the first move. I was going to take advantage of her cocky attitude. When I headed straight toward her, she decided to show off a bit. She jumped straight up and flipped over my shoulders. While she was in mid air, I grabbed one of her legs, which caused her to land face first on the mat. I turned and quickly turned her over on her back and pinned her down. She had this expression of total shock on her face. I put my face in hers and smiled. If our faces had been any closer we would have been kissing.

{That was a good workout session. Let's do it again sometime.}

Lsa then looked so furious! She threw me off of her and ran upstairs.

(Lsa)
I was so humiliated! I had never lost a fight in my life before then. I guess I wasn't as fast as I thought I was. I was overcome with embarrassment, I ran all the way back upstairs and out the back door. I slowed down when I got the crystal forest behind the house. I finally sat beneath a tree to pout. Eventually Makel found me.

{There you are! Looks like someone is a sore loser!}

{I've never lost a fight...}

{Until now. What's the big deal? It's not like it was a life or death situation. We were just sparring.}

Makel didn't understand. If that had been a life or death situation I could have been gone from this world. That scared me. It made me wonder if all of my victories were a matter of skill or just luck. Makel finally put aside all joking and sat down beside me.

{Hey, are you ok?}

{Just leave me alone, will you?}

{All right. I'm going inside to fix dinner. Did you want anything special?}

{No thanks.}

I didn't mean to be unfriendly. It's just that ever since I escaped from the Silver Shanks I had been an emotional mess. After a while I came back inside and went to my guest room to play my flute. That had always helped me to relax.

(Makel)
Began cooking diner with my mind also on Lsa. I wasn't exactly sure why she had become so upset. I did know she hadn't had the easiest life. When everything was in the pot and cooking I went up to try and talk to Lsa.

While walking up the stairs I could hear her playing the flute. The song was an ancient one and very sad. Stepmahda Dani had played it (among others) when I was little. I couldn't remember what it was about. Stepmahda had been teaching Lsa the flute and must have passed the old songs to her. When I got to Lsa's door I stayed out of sighted and just listened.

I was totally captivated by her song. There was something about the way she played. Not only did it sound beautiful, it seemed like she put her feelings into it. It was as if she was releasing her sadness through her playing. Before the end of the song, she stopped playing all of a sudden. I tapped on the door and asked to come in. She was sitting on the bed looking at the floor.

{Dinner should be ready in a few minutes. Would you like me to fix you a plate?}

{I'm not hungry,} she replied as she brushed a hand across her cheek. So that's why she stopped playing. She had started crying.

{Um, Lsa, that song you played sounded really great. You're very talented.}

{Thanks.} She wouldn't look me in the eye. Before heading back downstairs I sat next to her on the bed and kissed her cheek. At first she looked kind of surprised, then she smiled. By the gods, that was a lovely smile. I was going to kiss her again, but she turned away from me and put some distance between us. Damn, she was making it hard to win her over! I wasn't sure exactly how she felt about me. Everything was made clear by the end of the week while we were hanging out by the pool out back.

Lsa and I had rolled our pants legs up and we were cooling our toes in the pool water. I felt like singing, even though I'm not much of a singer. Lsa had me inspired so I sang an old love song called "Pretty Lady". I tried to sing it like the old crooners, but I didn't come too close. That made Lsa laugh. That was ok, because I loved making her laugh as often as I could. I knew she needed a lot of cheering up.

{Mak, if you don't stop singing, one of us is going into this pool water and it's not me!} Lsa teased. Hearing that I began to sing even louder. {Makel, if you stop I will kiss you!}

{You really mean it?}

{Well...} she hesitated. For a few seconds we just gazed into each others eyes. I then blurted out what I had been feeling ever since I first saw that pretty read-head.

{Lsa, would you think I was crazy if I told you I love you?}

{No, because I love you too.}

Before I could say another word, she grabbed my face in her hands and kissed me. We both must have really been into that kiss because we ended up falling into the pool water. When I came up to the water surface, I didn't see Lsa. All I saw was her pink blouse floating nearby. I was relieved when she came up a few seconds later holding her pants above her head.

{Well, there's no point in wearing these wet clothes.}

{I agree!} Soon we had our wet clothes lying by the pool. As we climbed out I noticed something on Lsa's left thigh. It was a tattoo of a woman with a niku's head wielding a katana blade.

{You like my tattoo?}

{Definitely!}

{Why don't you come closer so you can get a better look at it?} I certainly did get a better look at Lsa's cool tattoo...along with the rest of her!

(Tilor)
~KIA!~ I shouted when I got to the door of the Ataka house. ~KIA!!~ Soon enough, Fikkia poked her head from a nearby window.

~What is it, Tilor?~ she asked.

~Can Tkkla come out to play?~ I inquired, giving her a big smile.

~You act like such a child!~ Kia exclaimed. ~I'll go see if he isn't busy.~

~Tell him it's urgent!~ Kia took herself back in and I stood there, waiting. I needed to see Tkkla immediately. My relationship with Pijol was going very smoothly, but I needed some advice on how to bring outsiders to our little group. Tkkla himself collects a few concubines that aren't MATI and we're usually very strict in our policies. About the only other person who's had experience with this sort of this was my Mahda, the Empress. Of course, Pahda has no clue whatsoever about the MATI and its activities, which makes it harder for me to distribute assignments. Only one family of each dialect--Hnn, Mua, Wua and Tch--are leaders of the group. Tkkla represented the Tch while I represented the Mua. Ginny's relatives, the Tangerts, represented the Hnn. I know Pahda expects me to marry Ginny because her Pahda's a Holy Elder, but Ginneda is more like my sister than a lover. Also, if he knew I was seeing a commoner, he'd beat me 'til the end of the world, whether I was an Elder or not. Damn, things are just so complicated.

Not long after Fikkia left, young Tifa came out the door to fetch me. It was amazing how much she looked like her pahda, even down to the facial expression.

~Good afternoon, young Princess Tifa. And how are you this fine day?~

~I hate boys,~ she growled. ~They are nothing but a waste of good flesh!~

~Hmph! I'm sorry I asked! Well, since they sent you to get me I'm assuming Tkkla is busy.~

~Yeah. He's playing with that crazy concubine of his. One of those Hnn girls he took from that traveling circus. I think she just does all that stuff so she can be the center of attention.~

~But you're Pahda's little girl! Shouldn't you be the center of attention?~

~Yes! I totally agree! Why should he spend all that time with that circus freak when he should be busy spoiling me? Anyway, Pahda said to tell you to wait for him in the hanging gardens with Mahda. C'mon, let's go.~

Tifa then led me to the hanging gardens then promptly stormed off.

~Ok, Kia, what the hell was that all about?~

~You mean Tifa? I think she's just all worked up about this crush of hers.~

~Crush? On who?~

~I suspect it's an older boy who works for Tkkla. Somehow she got the impression that he was interested in her, then saw him with some other girls later on. She's been pissed ever since.~

~Oh my...~

~She'll get over it. Anyway, what brings you here, Tilor?~

~I need some advice that only Tkkla can give me.~

~Ah, I see. Does this have to do with a girl?~

~Yes... but it's complicated.~

~Let me guess, you're getting rid of one of your concubines, but have no idea on how to do it gently.~

~Actually, I've been meaning to give Tkkla all of my concubines for his brothels. See, after the Niku incident, I was hoping I could help him in some way.~

~Is that so?~

~But there's more. There's this girl I'm seeing...~

~Is it possible?~ Kia gave a shocked impression. ~The great Tilor Ritua, the proud royal lion, planning to settle down?!~

~Yes, you could put it that way...~ I started.

~Oh, I just knew you and Ginneda would get together eventually!~ Oh, no! Does everyone expect me to marry my best friend, whom I only love as a sister?

~Kia, you don't understand--~

~Wait 'til I tell Tkkla!~ she shouted.

~Tell me what?~ a voice asked. We turned around to see Tkkla. ~Tilor, you wanted to see me?~

~Yes, I did.~ I replied. ~Kia, could you excuse us please?~

~Oh, all right!~ she said, giving me a smile, then walked out of the gardens.

~All right, friend.~ Tkkla said as soon as we were alone. ~What is it?~

~Remember that country girl we met when we snuck out?~ I said.

~The one whom you had a crush on? Yes...~

~Well... it's like this...~ I started.

~Planning to have her for yourself, aren't you?~

~Yeah, I am.~

~Well, then go for it. She'd make a good concubine.~

~Uh, Tkkla, that's the problem. I'm not going to take her as a concubine.~

~Why not? She's pretty, she's sexy...~

~I may as well show you.~ I took out the bright pink promise stone I was planning to give Pijol and showed it to Tkkla.

(Tkkla)
At that point I realized Tilor had completely lost his mind. It was one thing to be involved with a commoner, but to marry her was insanity! I knew Emperor Rutor would have a fit if he found out about this.

~Tilor, are you crazy? Your parents would never approve of this!~

~I don't give a damn about their approval! Pijol and I are perfect for each other. Not only is she beautiful, she's also brilliant! In fact, she's helping me plan our next hit.~

~What? On who?~

~The Young family. Her idea is quite thorough and not as messy as the others have been. When we're through with them there won't be a trace of their existence. But enough about that. Tkkla, I want Pijol to become a part of the MATI. She shares our beliefs and she's willing to help our cause. That is partly why I believe she would make me a perfect entawan. And when we marry, I want you to be my herald.~

By the gods, that Pijol had totally captured Tilor's heart! At first I wanted to talk him out of proposing to her, but he had that look of determination (some would call it stubbornness) in his eyes, so I knew that wouldn't work.

~Tilor, what about Ginny? Everyone kind of expected you two to marry.~

~You know, Tkkla, Ginneda and I were intimate only once and she told me it was like fucking her bother. I love Ginny as a friend but there's just no chemistry between us.~

~So there's no way you would change your mind?~

~If I had to choose between the most beautiful goddess in the universe and Pijol, I'd choose Pij without hesitation.~

~Ok, so you and Ginny didn't hit it off. Why couldn't you choose someone else of royal blood?~

~Oh come on, Tkkla! You should understand what I'm going through! I mean, your Pahda, Lord Tokka, didn't want you to marry Kia because her family didn't own as much land as the princess he had chosen for you. Yet you married Princess Fikkia anyway. And why was that? ~

~Because...I love her.~

~Exactly!~

I knew Tilor had a point, but at least Kia was a princess. Pijol wasn't even a child of a High Holy Elder like Ginny. I had a feeling when this all came to light things were going to get really ugly in the House of Ritua.

~All right, Tilor. I can already see you're going to do what you want. May luck shine upon you and your love.~

~I knew you'd understand!~ Tilor cried as he held me in a tight hug. If I didn't push him off, he would've crushed me.

~Don't get all mushy on me, friend.~ I said. ~I just hope you don't regret this decision. After all, if you marry a commoner, you could lose your chance at the throne, and we need the Floating Island in our arsenal.~

~I won't! But I need you to promise me something.~

~What?~

~I know we take a lot of risks doing what we do. I need you to promise that if anything happens to me--Wensitu forbid--you would take care of Pijol for me.~

~Tilor...~

~Promise me, or so help me I'll haunt you about it for the rest of your life!~

Gods, he really did love her! Well, what else am I going to do? ~All right, Tilor. I swear on the grave of my ancestors that your... future entawan will be in my care should something happen to you.~

~You have no idea how much I appreciate this, Tkkla. Oh, and one more thing.~

~What is it?~ Tilor placed the promise stone in my face.

~You think Pijol would like it?~

~I think she'll love it. By the way, natural promise stones don't come in pink. Where in the world did you get that?~

~Our jeweler took a clear promise stone and treated it with color.~

~Ah, I see. A custom made promise stone. She'll definitely be quite impressed. When are you going to propose?~

~This weekend when I visit her at the campus. There's something else I wanted to talk to you about. I have no use for my concubines so I would like you to have them for your brothels.~ As if I hadn't had enough shock for the day he had to pull something like this.

~Tilor, since when do you have no use for concubines?~

~Since I fell in love, my dear friend!~

~Well, I'm in love with Kia but I'll be damned if I give away any of my concubines! (Especially ChiChu)!~

~That's because you're a horny, kinky, sex addicted bastard!~

~True, true. Well, I suppose I could use some more girls, especially on Bright Street. I really do appreciate that. But won't your parents get suspicious once they find out you gave them all away?~

~My parents don't pay attention to a damned thing I do! Why do you think my pahda knows nothing of my MATI activities? Anyway, I've got to head back to Mua country. I miss my pretty Pink Princess.~

After Tilor left, Fikkia was asking so many questions about what we talked about. I didn't feel like discussing it so I told her I was sworn to secrecy. I truly hoped everything would work out for the best for my friend.

(Pijol)
Late one night I had a class mate of mine over. Her name was Adran Pawamin. Like me, she came from the Valley. Her family was made up of fishermen and ran the fish market at the Farmers Market. Anyway, she had been invited to a wedding and she needed some fashion advice.

{Pij, I want to look good but I don't want to outshine the bride. I'm not even sure what color to wear!}

{You look good in either pastel yellow or black and white.}

{Really? That's great because I saw this white dress with black accents at Jeema's the other day.}

{I know which one you're talking about. Yeah, that would look very good on you.}

{Thanks, Piggy!}

{It's Pijol! Don't call me by that horrid name ever again!}

{I'm so sorry, Pij. I won't do it again.}

Adran was spending the night it my dorm quarters. We had been there most of the day studying Wua. Because of the career paths we had chosen we had to learn all four major dialects. While I was in the bathroom brushing my teeth I heard Adran scream. I ran out of the bathroom to see what in the world was going on! I saw Adran standing by my extra bed holding a lamp in her hand like a weapon. A man stood across the bed from her. By the gods, it was Tilor!

{Pij, call the campus police! This guy tried to rape me!}

{No, no! You don't understand! I thought you were Pij!}

{What happened!}

{I was sleeping and he crawled into bed with me and started feeling me up! You better get outta here you pervert!} Adran lifted the lamp above her head. I guess she was going to throw it, but I stopped her.

{Adran, stop! He's no pervert! He's my boyfriend!}

(Tilor)
{I'm so sorry, miss, it was dark and I didn't know Pij had a roommate.} I stammered.

The purple girl took a moment to calm down.

{Well, I didn't know Pijol had a boyfriend.} she said as she put the lamp back.

{This is Adran Pawamin.} Pijol told me. Then she practically jumped into my arms.

{I'm glad your here my handsome prince.}

{Shh! Not so loud, Pij! That's our little secret, remember?} I kissed her tenderly then turned back to her friend. {I do apologize for that misunderstanding. I should have called ahead to let Pij know I was coming.}

{Umm...that's ok. Pijol, I'm going to go back to my quarters. I assume you want some privacy.}

{You're not going out this late by yourself, are you? A pretty girl like you shouldn't be walking the streets alone!}

{Oh, Tilor, her room is right down the hall. She'll be fine.}

{All right then. Good night Adran. It was nice meeting you.}

{I suggest you find a better way of introducing yourself.}

{Point taken!} Adran waved good bye to Pijol and left me and my love alone in her quarters. When Pijol put her hands on her hips I knew a little lecture was coming.

{Tilor, you just can't keep dropping in unannounced like this!}

{I know, love. I'm sorry. I wanted to surprise you.}

{Well, you certainly did! Now, what brings you here, my love?} she inquired as she laid her pretty little head against my chest.

{You know I couldn't stay away too long. Besides, I have something special for you. Have a seat, my dear.}

(Pijol)
Tilor and I sat on the side of my bed. I leaned on his shoulder and looked up into his eyes. It had been a while since I had seen him face to face. He had been busy with his princely duties at the palace. In spite of his busy schedule he had taken time out to come see me. There wasn't a doubt in my mind that he loved me. I knew I loved him, too.

{So, Tilor, what do you have for me?}

{Now before I give this to you I must ask you something. Before I ask you this I'm letting you know that I'm not taking 'no' for an answer.} Right then he pulled out a velvet lined box and opened it. It was a huge promise stone! And a pink one at that!

{Tilor, it's so big}

{Stop thinking about our first time together and tell me you'll marry me, my pretty Pijol!}

{I meant the promise stone, you royal goof! For that remark, you'll have to persuade me to marry you, my prince.}

{I had a feeling this wouldn't be easy.} Before Tilor could begin to 'persuade' me, his pager phone rang. {Damn it, not now! One moment, please.} Tilor picked up his phone. {Hello? Oh, Pahda! Umm... I was in the middle of something. Oh. It's important? Uh huh. Uh huh. Do I have to?! Oh. Fine, fine. I'll do it. Yes, Pahda! No, I won't forget! Good night, Pahda!} He then hung up and sighed.

{What was that all about, love?} I asked.

{I have a diplomatic meeting in two days. I leave for Wua country tomorrow afternoon.} he replied. {I really hate this one.}

{Why is that?}

{I have to deal with the Wek family!}

{WHAT?! Those infidels?!}

{Unfortunately, that family has influential relations on the Mykari homeworld. The meeting itself will discuss relations with our respected worlds, thus their presence.}

{Oh, no! This couldn't come at a worse time.}

{Pijol, I'll have to persuade you later. I have to deal with that family right now.}

{Must you leave so soon?}

{Actually, I'm going to need your help on this one.}

{Tilor?}

{Just do as I say. First, turn off all of the lights.} I did as Tilor instructed. He then took out a small black candle and lit the flame. After saying a small chant I couldn't figure out, he pulled me back from the candle.

{What's going on?} I questioned.

{The reason why Mimian-Mykari half-breeds are so rare.} Nothing happened for what seemed like a few minutes. Suddenly, four beings appeared. I mean, literally appeared! Right out of the shadows. They started talking in a strange language. From their physical appearance, I could tell they were Mykari.

{Who are they?} I whispered.

{The Hav'Throth.} Tilor answered. {The best mercenaries money can buy.} One of the Mykari, a woman with white hair, started speaking in her own tongue. She looked over at Tilor, then at me. She then sent a smaller girl in front of us.

{Prince Tilor Ritua.} The girl said. I was surprised she could speak our language, our dialect even! {What business do you have in summoning us?}

{Nice to see you as well, Mistress Tarin.} Tilor replied. {We have an assignment for you.} The girl relayed the message to the woman, whom I presumed was their leader. After a brief exchange of words, Mistress Tarin turned back to Tilor.

{Mistress Zantara wants to know what is our target.} she replied.

{Amaryo Wek and his family.} Mistress Tarin relayed it to Mistress Zantara, who looked very worried, but gave a response.

{Mistress Zantara is concerned about your choice in the target. His M'Tah is the granddaughter of Archmage Kareat Wek, Grand Vizier to Avatar Carata herself. The relation alone makes the house of Wek a high-risk target.}

{But will you do it?}

{We will, provided you pay us triple our usual.}

{Triple?!}

{For insurance. We will not risk the wrath of the Avatar without some...security. All other arrangements are as stated.} Tilor looked very pale at the moment, then made a contact on his pager phone.

{Hello, Tkkla. It's me. We're siccing the Hav'Throth on the Wek family. Well, the reason I am calling is that they want triple the usual. Yes, triple! I tried to work out of it, but no dice. They want insurance because of the mongrel's Mykari background. No, I do not have it! Yes, I know you're having some financial trouble, but we have to do this. Look, just give them their advance and I'll take care of the rest. Okay? Okay.} After hanging up on Tkkla, Tilor looked at Mistress Tarin. {Lord Ataka will give you your advance, triple the usual.} he told her. {The rest I shall provide upon commencement.} After another relay, there was silence. Mistress Zantara then gave an answer.

{Mistress Zantara says she will take your offer.} Mistress Tarin said. {But if Lord Ataka tries anything like the last time, he will suddenly find himself in a very deep freeze.}

{Understood. I assure you he will not.}

{If he does, you will pay for his insolence.} With that, the Hav'Throth disappeared just as mysteriously as they appeared. The room was dark; the candle went out. I turned on the lights.

{What was that all about?} I asked.

{Long story. I really don't want to get into that now. So...where was I when we were so rudely interrupted?}

(Tilor)
I woke early the next morning holding my new fiancé in my arms. I knew I had to leave but I really didn't want to go. She looked so gorgeous with her head laying on my chest and the promise stone around her neck. She looked perfectly precious...until she let out a snore that made her snort like a mountain pig. In spite of that, she still looked beautiful.

I knew I had to get moving, so I gently laid Pijol on the other side of the bed, trying not to wake her. Before getting up, I kissed her lightly on the lips. She slowly opened her eyes and smiled.

{Good morning, pretty Pijol.}

{Morning, love,} she replied with a sensual stretch, stirring up desire within me. Damn it, why did Pahda have to go and ruin my weekend? I looked at the clock. I didn't have to be at the airport until 3 PM. It was still early in the morning, so I figured we had plenty of time to make love one last time before I left. Unfortunately, I lost track of time and before I knew it, it was 12 PM. That barely gave me enough time to get back to the palace to pack then go to the airport! Damn! I knew if I was late getting to Wua country for that conference, Pahda would be furious!

(Lynei)
Darkness. That's what it was like traveling in the metaphysical realm with a Shadow Element as a travel guide; utter darkness. Rarely do we ever see any daylight, today being one of them. We had settled in Tch country when Lenaria went to pick up our advance from Lord Ataka. I remember the last time we went to him for a payment, he had the nerve to call her a whore! As mercenaries, we are many things, but whores are definitely not one of them! I remember nearly losing it when he tried to lay his hands on her (for fun) and she nearly cut his hands off with her Dark Blade, a sword made of concentrated shadow energy. I had wanted to put the bastard yungar on ice myself, but the MATI are our best customers. Destroying one of their leaders wasn't wise, at the moment.

After receiving our advance, Waetar had went to scout Wua country to locate our target. I have yet to understand why Astral Projection was considered one of the Forbidden Arts; we find it rather useful in our line of work. We all stirred as Waetar came out of his sleep.

|What did you find out?| I asked him.

|The house of Wek are getting ready for a conference.| he explained. |They will be discussing relations between the Planet of the Mimes and My'Ka.|

|Were you sensed?|

|Barely. The house of Wek aren't taking chances; there are a number of both Mimian and Mykari troops serving as security.|

|Damn.| Lenaria said. |This will not be easy, especially with a target at this magnitude.|

|Why do we even bother helping them?| I asked. |These MATI consider sexual practice as casual, the palaces are filled with slaves and the targets are merely executed for their bloodline.|

|The MATI house is very dangerous, Lynei.| Lenaria explained. |They worship a powerful god. It would not be wise to anger them.|

|I still don't like it.|

|Because of their prejudices? You forget, I myself despise the possessors of the Light Element, especially if they are ta'tori.|

|But that's different; the Light Element is a threat to your power and ta'tori can be more powerful than the strongest Mykari. At least you have a reason to hate; they don't.|

|Not true. They have their reasons, which we do not know. As mercenaries, we must take any job that pays, regardless of our personal feelings. Is that understood?|

|Yes, Mistress Zantara.| I show respect to her in public; alone, I can casually speak to her. But she's right, this is our line of work. No matter how much I loathe it, this is what we do.

|Waetar,| Lenaria spoke. |Is the Archmage among those attending this...conference?|

|No, Mistress Zantara.| Waetar replied. |Only the granddaughter and her family.|

|Both generations?|

|Yes, Mistress.|

|Excellent.|

|What's the plan, Mistress?| Ranito asked, glancing towards me. For the love of the Goddess, does he not see I don't fancy him?!

|You three enable a distraction for the security guards.| Lenaria explained. |Waetar, see if you can't shake things up outside of the building.|

|Understood.|

|Ranito, Lynei.| No! I can't work with him! |You two shall enable diversions on the inside. As for myself, I shall use the shadows to guide me to the house of Wek.| Man, this really is a difficult job if Lenaria is going to establish the killing blow.

(Rahj Mertan-Wek)
I was nervous. I had never seen so much security around. Elara was taking precautions because our son, Amaryo, had suggested it. My entawan and I had learned long ago to heed his warnings. I didn't even know why I was there for this conference. I wasn't a representative or a Member of the Chitau. I was just Rahj Mertan-Wek, a humble miner from the Southern Pillars.

It was good to see our son. He was there for a visit from Mua country, where he was attending university. He had told me he was getting bad vibes from one of his classmates. Someone named Pijol Hurgin. He could sense that she didn't like him at all, though he wasn't sure why. He also said he sensed a strong negative presence or influence around her. But, other than that, everything seems to be going well for him at school. He even told me he met a nice girl. A very young prodigy named Adran Pawamin. Being only eight cycles, she's the youngest student ever to attend Crystal Valley University. I think Amaryo fancies her. He said they went on a couple outings together. He won't call them dates, but I know better. Personally I think she's a bit too young for him. But it's nice that he's making new friends. He can be a bit shy at times.

I knew it was almost time for Elara to go to the conference when she came over to me and Amaryo at our table in the Wua Embassy Commissary. We both stood to greet her.

*So, are you ready for the meeting?*

*As ready as I'll every be, Rahj.*

*I hope it doesn't take as long as the last one on Mars Colony. I was bored to tears.*

*Well, you two don't have to stay here all day. Why don't you and Amaryo go visit Hadaya. She's still recovering from that broken leg. I'm sure she could use the company.*

*Yes, M'Tah. That's sounds like a good idea.* I thought that was a good idea too. It had been some time since he had seen his cousin.

*Then it's settled. Now off you go! Tell Hadaya I send my prayers.*

*I will, love.* Elara then hugged us both good-bye. I made sure to give her a special good-bye kiss. I was glad to get out of the Embassy, but at the same time I felt I shouldn't have left Elara there.

(Varyn Xetrato)
How in the name of the Goddess did I get myself into these things? There's not much excitement during these conferences. Still, it's not often that one serves as a bodyguard to the house of Wek. The Archmage was very strict on who got to guard his family, especially his granddaughter. I don't blame him; Amaryo is my best friend despite the social gap and he's told me there are some Mimians who are very purist. I could never understand why one species would discourage interspecies mating. We Mykari have seen positive influences in such activity. I stood at attention as Mistress Wek approached me.

|Is everything secure, Corporal?| she asked.

|Yes, Mistress Wek.| I replied. |Nothing will be able to penetrate our forces.|

|Don't get cocky. I know my GuP'Tah wants to be safe, but nothing is perfect. Nonetheless, make sure nothing goes wrong during this conference.|

|Of course, Mistress.|

|Amaryo is right about you, Varyn; you have much potential as a Wa'Ma. Perhaps I am looking at the future High Conjurer of Her Imperial Holiness' army?| High Conjurer?! That was the highest rank in the Mykari military!

|I... I am flattered, Mistress Wek. Thank you.|

|I'm only sorry Mistress Xetrato couldn't make it; her skills would be most impressive here.|

|Unfortunately, Mistress Xetrato is still on Earth dealing with the planet's relations with My'Ka. I'm sure she'd want to be here.| And I'm glad she's there, too. Bad enough I have to sit through a boring conference without my overbearing sister here. Suddenly, a presence was in the air. I had a bad feeling about this. |Wait here.| I instructed. I went out to the corridors to find it covered in ice. I saw one of the Mimian officers sliding on it. {{What's going on?}} I signed.

{{Someone covered the ground with ice.}} he replied. {{Then the surveillance started shorting out, like a magnetic pulse hit them.}}

{{What about outside?}}

{{Earthquakes, and the occasional volcano or two. Something is definitely wrong.}} How right he was, because I heard a scream. I rushed back in and saw a woman attack Mistress Wek! I tackled the intruder to the ground. She then threw me off, but I was able to get back on my feet.

|Persistent little Wa'Ma, aren't you?| the woman said. I recognized her as Lenaria Zantara, leader of the infamous Hav'Throth, a gang of mercenaries. |As much as I'd love to play with you, I have a job to do.|

|You'll have to get by me first.| I told her. I stood behind Mistress Wek to make sure she wouldn't get harmed.

|Aw, that's too bad.| Lenaria then disappeared. Damn it! I forgot her Element was Shadow, one of the Divine Elements. She could use it to go anywhere she wanted.

|Stay close to me, Mistress.| I instructed. |And stay away from the shadows.| Lenaria finally reappeared above us, but I cast a force field around us before she could get on top of us. She flipped away from us as she impacted on the field.

|You're only delaying the inevitable.| she mocked. |I only need Mistress Wek and her family.|

|You'll have to find better customers, Lenaria.| I replied. |No bloodshed will be here today.|

|Is that so? And I had my colleagues work so hard in distracting your comrades. When I'm through here, you'll wish you had joined them.|

|Stop this right now! You'll achieve nothing in assassinating the house of Wek. Are you really willing to risk the Avatar's wrath?|

|You're right.| she said. |I would be angering Her Imperial Holiness in destroying the house of Wek.| She seemed unarmed, but I still kept the force field up. I wasn't stupid; the Hav'Throth don't give up too easily. My instincts were right because the glow of Lenaria's skull gem was silver like the gem itself. That signified her Element was being used. But where? She seemed unarmed. Suddenly, the force field collapsed. Both myself and Mistress Wek were impacted into a wall, Lenaria smiling all the way, several miniature Dark Blades floating around her. |But my best customers are paying too much for me to turn this job down.| She approached us, a Dark Blade forming in her hand. She then proceeded to strike Mistress Wek, but I took the blow of the Blade. Ah! The pain was so intense! I remember seeing blackness and the pain in my head. |Stupid Wa'Ma.| Lenaria said as she kicked me. I started to go unconscious, but the last thing I heard was a scream, one that would haunt me for the rest of my days.

(Adran)
It wasn't long before the incident at the conference made the news. I had just finished studying with Pijol when she turned on the holovision. Field reporter Umi Hasau was covering the event.

{It has been confirmed that at 2 PM this afternoon in Wua country Mistress Elara Wek was assassinated. She is survived by her son, Amaryo Wek and her life mate Rahj Mertan-Wek. Her bodyguard is said to be in critical condition. There has been no word on who the assassin was or the reason for the attack. This is Umi Hasau reporting from the Northern Pillars, Wua country.}

I was dumbfounded. I had just spoken to Amaryo before he left to visit his parents. He told me he was really looking forward to seeing them. I felt so very sorry for him and his pahda. Pijol didn't seem to care too much though.

(Pijol)
I tried not to smile in front of Adran when I heard the news about Elara Wek. I was disappointed that the entire family wasn't wiped out. I knew Adran was friends with Amaryo. I think they even went out together a couple times. I certainly hoped my friend wasn't romantically involved with that mongrel.

{Oh, Pijol, this is horrible news!}

{Yes, so tragic.}

{I'll have to talk to Amaryo when he comes back. I know he must be devastated.} Adran then turned to me and gave me a curious look. {Pijol, is that a promise stone around your neck?}

{Why yes, it is.}

{Oh my, it's so large! And that color isn't natural for a promise stone. I assume your boyfriend gave it to you.}

{Yes. Tilor gave it to me last night after you left.}

{He must have paid a fortune for a stone like that. Well, congratulations on your engagement! I would love to attend the wedding.}

{I'll keep you in mind when I'm making up invitations,} I replied with a smile. As I looked down at my promise stone, I wondered if Tilor had told anyone about our engagement.

(Varyn)
I awoke to a flood of sounds. I didn't know where I was or what had happened. Wait...the attack at the Embassy. I remember trying to protect Mistress Wek from the Hav'Throth leader...why is it so dark?

|Varyn? Varyn, can you hear me?| That voice...

|Syrine? Is that you?| I felt someone hug me tight. |I thought you were on Earth.|

|I heard what happened. I came to check on you.|

|Still the overprotective one. But where am I?|

|At a hospital. The doctors said you were in critical condition.|

|Mistress Wek...is she--|

|Dead. They found her body slashed. It was terrible. Oh, Goddess, who could've done such a thing?| I failed. Mistress Wek depended on me to protect her and her family and I failed...oh no!

|Syrine, has the family been notified?|

|I don't know.|

|The ones who killed Mistress Wek will come after her family. Don't ask how I know; I just do.| I tried to get up, but I could feel someone pushing me down. |Syrine, what happened to me? I can't see.| Silence. |Syrine! Please, sister. Tell me what happened since the assassination.|

|When they found you,| she explained reluctantly. |You were barely alive. Your face was severely cut...your eyes were beyond repair.| The Dark Blade! That bitch Lenaria slit my eyes out!

|How long was I unconscious?|

|A few days.| We both heard a knock on the door. I heard someone greet my sister. It was High Conjurer Hujar! Good Goddess! I saluted immediately.

|At ease, Corporal.| Hujar said. |Good to see you're awake. Mistress Xetrato, may I have a word with him?|

|It's okay, Syrine.| I said. I could hear my sister's footsteps slowly leave the room. |High Conjurer,| I began. |I accept full responsibility for the death of Mistress Elara Wek.|

|Easy, Corporal. You've been through enough. Now, what happened?| I explained the attack by the Hav'Throth and the fight against Lenaria. |So, the Hav'Throth were responsible for this?| she confirmed. I nodded. |Lenaria said they were hired to get the whole family?|

|Yes, High Conjurer. There has been talk about purists among the Mimian population.|

|With local law enforcement corruption here, our troops can't make a confirmation. Even our probers have trouble viewing any negative thoughts.|

|What about the rest of the house? How are they?|

|Archmage Wek is...reasonably upset over the loss of his granddaughter. He and Master Mertan-Wek have made an arrangement to have young Master Wek stay on My'Ka as soon as he completes his studies here.|

|I...understand if Archmage Wek holds me responsible--|

|Save it, Corporal. Our finest Elite have trouble with the Hav'Throth. You were lucky to survive that attack, especially against Lenaria Zantara herself. She normally doesn't leave survivors around.|

Despite High Conjurer Hujar's words, I still blame myself for what happened. I also realized that my blindness has ended my career as a Wa'Ma. There's no way I could fight like this and I had no intention in spending the rest of my life doing paperwork.

(Amaryo)
The funeral was held on My'Ka. That's how M'Tah wanted it. He body was completely covered on the barge. It was in no condition for viewing because of how he died. M'Tah loved peace flowers so friends and family placed the blossoms on the barge. It was decided that Pah would shoot the fire arrow and I would push the barge further into the water.

As we watched the barge burn brightly, I tried to figure out why my M'Tah died. I knew that her Mykari background was of high profile, but what did those assassins gain by murdering her?

|I'm so sorry.| I turned around to see Varyn Xetrato, my best friend. When I learned what the attack had done to him, I felt so bad. Varyn's dream was to become one of the greatest Wa'Ma in the galaxy, and he lost his sight trying to protect my M'Tah. |It's my fault. If I had been a better fighter, she'd still be alive.|

|This isn't your fault, Varyn.| I replied. |Great GuP'Tah said those assassins were good.|

|They are the Hav'Throth. Mercenaries, assassins for a price. I know they are powerful, but still...|

|Is there anything you know about them?|

|Whoever summoned the Hav'Throth must have had a lot of credit to pay them. They usually don't go after targets of this high profile. Now that you mentioned it, there were similar killings of Mykari with Mimian blood in them. It's possible the Hav'Throth are working with some powerful purist group on the Mimian homeworld, but there's no solid proof.| I looked at his face, the scar stretching where his eyes once were. |I hear you're coming to My'Ka to stay with your grandparents.|

|It was the family's idea.| I explained. |After what happened to M'Tah, they feel it's necessary for me to be where it's safe.|

|When are you leaving?|

|As soon as the semester at the university ends. I could transfer to one on My'Ka and still continue my studies. What about you, old friend? I hear talk that you've resigned your commission.|

|I have.|

|What?|

|I can't fight like this. Since I can't fight for the Goddess, I'm going to serve Her in another way. The monastery on the base was kind enough to take me in as one of their own.|

|You, a monk? But, Varyn, monks can't mate and your dream--|

|I can't spend the rest of my life doing administrative duties and no one would want to mate with a cripple, especially one who's a failure.| By the gods, this had affected him worse than I thought. He blames himself for what happened when, in reality, it wasn't his fault.

|I guess things have truly changed. Varyn, just so you know, it wasn't your fault. I don't blame you for what happened, I never will.|

|Whatever you need, old friend, I'll be there for you. No matter what, I will make amends for this.|

(Ginneda)
I knew something odd was going on when people started to congratulate me on my engagement and ask me where my promise stone was. Somehow word got around that Tilor got engaged. I didn't know who started the rumor and I didn't know whether it was true or not. There was only one thing I could do. Ask Tilor himself.

I made my way to the gardens, where I noticed Tilor was there. He seemed to be arguing with the Hav'Throth.

{What do you mean you won't pay us?!} Mistress Tarin had snapped. I couldn't get over the fact a member of another species could speak our tongue, but I guess it's because of Sound, one of her Elements. {We risked a lot doing your dirty work, Ritua!} So that's what happened at that conference. I should've guessed.

{The deal was the entire house.} Tilor argued. {You only got the half breed.}

{How were we supposed to know the rest of the family was not at the Embassy? It wasn't like we sensed their auras with all the security there!}

{It doesn't matter. You're not getting paid until the rest of the Wek family is terminated.} Mistress Tarin reverted to her own language, receiving a reply from Mistress Zantara.

{Mistress Zantara says that is impossible now.} she explained. {Now that we are found out, the remaining house has taken greater precautions. Both the young master and his P'Tah have started wearing neutrality stones. As long as those remain around their necks, all metaphyscial paths leading to them are blocked.}

{Then I guess you don't get paid.}

{On the contrary, Prince Ritua. Unless you pay us now, you will have the opportunity to pay later...with your life.}

{You dare to threaten me?!}

{You're right; even that wouldn't be enough. Perhaps the blood of your pretty pink tramp will convince you not to double-cross the Hav'Throth.}

{You've got a lot of nerve insulting my fiancée like that!}

{Why thank you, Your Not-So-Highness. I have worked up a lot of guts, considering all we've done for you. Who takes care of your Mimian-Mykari hybrid messes? Who gave you that ESP talisman to protect the thoughts of your followers from the military probers? Who took the time to gather the herb that saved your dear friend Lord Ataka's life from his grave illness over eight cycles ago? You owe us a lot, Ritua.}

{I'll pay you your usual for getting rid of the half breed, but no more.} There was another relay among the Mykari mercenaries.

{Mistress Zantara says that will suffice.} Mistress Tarin replied. {For now.}

{Very well.} Tilor gave the Hav'Throth their usual payment and they disappeared into the shadows. Well, I guess I know about that rumor of him getting engaged.

(Tilor)
I was so glad when those mercenaries left with their payment. They had a lot of nerve asking to be paid even though they failed. I really wished that they had taken care of the entire family. No matter. At least the Youngs were taken care of. Pij had helped me arrange their 'accidental' crash into the Sinking Sands. It was impossible to retrieve their bodies or their vehicle to gather evidence to prove otherwise. As I prepared to head back inside the palace, I saw Ginneda coming my way. She looked like she had something on her mind.

{Hello, Ginny.} I said, knowing almost for certain what she was going to talk to me about.

When she came to me she just blurted it out.

{Who are you engaged to?}

I was right. Ginny's mind was very full indeed. I figured the rumor would spread to her at one point or other. And I still wasn't sure what to tell her. Was she that trustworthy?
{Ginny, before I tell you this, you must promise not to tell anyone.}

{All right, Tilor. You know you can trust me.}

{I've met someone and she's a dream come true. Her name is Pijol.}

{Oh, Tilor! I'm happy for you! What House is she from?}

{Well, she's not exactly from a particular House....}

{Oh, then she's like me. The child of a High Holy Elder.}

{Uh, no Ginny...}

{Well, Tilor if she's not royalty and she's not the child of a high powered official, she can only be...a commoner? Tilor, say it isn't so!}

{If I did, I would be lying.}

{But Tilor, your parents would never approve!}

{Hopefully, they won't find out until after we get married.} Ginny and I both nearly jumped out of our skin when we heard a voice roar from above us.

{TILOR RITUA! GET UP HERE THIS INSTANT YOUNG MAN!}

Damn...Looks like word got around to Pahda, too.

{I think you're in trouble.} Ginny said. {Big time.}

{I think so, too.}

{Tilor, you have to tell me about this Pijol. Does she--}

{Yeah. She knows.}

{You told her?!}

{Well, yeah! After I saw where she stood. The best part is she's on our side. How else were we able to pull off that hit on the Youngs?}

{You mean--that was her idea? Well, I guess she was properly named. For a commoner.}

{She also witnessed the Hav'Throth summoning.}

{What in the name of Wensitu am I going to tell your Mahda?}

{That I found a worthy mate? Come on! Tamran fell for a commoner.}

{And look what happened to them!} Hmm, good point.

{Oh, don't worry so much, Gin! I'm sure Mahda will understand my decision.} I hope.

I met my parents up on the balcony. They were not looking very happy at all.

{Tilor, what's this I hear about you getting engaged?}

{Well, her name is Pijol. And I think you would like her.}

{I doubt it. How dare you get engaged without my consent! You know very well your Mahda and I planned on having you betrothed to Ginny!}

{I know that, Pahda, but Pijol is a much better match for me.}

{I'll be the judge of that. And just who exactly is this Pijol? What House does she come from?} I knew that question was coming.

{She's from the Valley, Pahda.}

{The Valley?! Only commoners live there! You've chosen a commoner to take as a mate?!}

{Yes.}

{You know that we will not approve!}

{I don't need your approval.}

{Is that so? Well, then you don't need to ascend the throne when you turn 25! If you marry this common girl, you will no longer have a right to become the next Emperor!}

{But Pahda, that would completely cut off our blood line!}

{I'm aware of that, you fool! And because of that, I will allow your first born to inherit the throne at age 25...if you are unfortunate enough to reproduce with that commoner of yours!}

How dare he?! Well, I stormed off after that little discussion. Pij is not going to be happy about what happened. No matter; I knew they wouldn't approve and had planned to move out anyway. I immediately went to my room to pack.

{Tilor!} a voice called a few minutes later. I opened the door to see my Mahda. {Tilor, we need to talk.}

{If you're going to lecture me on how much a disappointment I've become, you can just forget it!} I snapped. {I've made my decision.}

{A commoner, Tilor? Honestly...}

{She's not as bad as she seems, Mahda. Pijol is a worthy mate.}

{There's more to worry about this engagement than your Pahda believes.}

{You're worried about our cause. Pijol is worthy. I wouldn't have considered marrying her if I thought otherwise.}

{Why is she worthy?}

{It'd take all day to list.}

{We fight for a very important cause, Tilor. You know that.}

{You never told Pahda about our cause and you married him.}

{So that our power will increase. Not only are you marrying a commoner, but an outsider. You know our laws will not approve.}

{Mahda, please. Before you do anything drastic, I want you to know, I tested Pijol myself. She's on our side.}

{How much does she know?}

{She knows I'm part of the group, witnessed the Hav'Throth summoning--by the way, I need to talk to you about them--and she helped me with the Young family.}

{The death of those infidels was her doing?}

{She helped arrange the whole crash and everything. She's perfect.}

{Sounds like she is properly named. Pijol (powerful mind). Oh, the irony. I marry a powerful person who is against our cause and you betroth yourself to a commoner who is for our cause. What a strange fate we've acquired. But how did you meet her?}

{Uh...Tkkla took me out for the day of my twentieth birthday. We've kept in touch since.}

{I should've guessed. Now, what was it you wanted to talk to me about the Hav'Throth.}

{They asked for their payment despite the fact they failed.}

{The nerve. Still, they should have something for their trouble and the fact we're one half-breed less. Whatever the cost, we must stay in their good graces. If we're to take care of the Child of Light, we'll need their expertise.}

{Maybe we shouldn't pay them for that. There are rumors that their leader would do it for free.}

{We're not taking chances here, my son. We've been lucky so far, but remember why we exterminate these...things in the first place.} I remembered the old prophecy of Wensitu.

{If our race mixes blood with another, the Child of Light will rise and vanquish the Bringer of Purity and his followers.} I recited. {I remember, Mahda.}

{Just make sure your child understands our purpose. And to spare your betrothed your Pahda's wrath and that of High Holy Master Tivert, I suggest the two of you wed in Tch country. I'm sure Tkkla would love the convenience it would bring.} She gave a small smile, which I gratefully returned.

{I will discuss it with her, Mahda.}

{And I do still have that summer house in Crystal Grove. The one your Pahda doesn't know about.}

{All right, Mahda. I...thank you for everything.} As she left, I smirked, knowing that I at least have Mahda's support. I know she doesn't tolerate my engagement, but I know that because Pijol supports our cause, she'll at least tolerate us.

(Pijol)
After my junior year was complete I had gone home for the summer and the Family Festival was right around the corner. My family was very excited about the news that Tilor had proposed. It had been a while since I had seen him. I sent him a message that I would be on the farm for my summer vacation. I was happy that my parents were going to let me study foreign languages instead of doing farm work. While studying beneath the sun fruit tree I notice someone driving down the road in a sleek convertible. It was my dear Tilor!

{Oh pretty Pijol!} Tilor called. {I have something to tell you!}

{What is it, darling?} I asked as I rushed over. He seemed to be a bit troubled.

{I have good news and bad news.} he explained. {And after that, I have better news and worse news.}

{What is it, Tilor?}

{The bad news is that my Pahda knows about us, and he is mad!}

{I guess he's not thrilled at the thought of you marrying a commoner.}

{That, and he was planning to arrange someone for me. Unless I marry the woman he wants me to marry, I won't ascend the throne when I'm 25. That's the worse news.}

{That's terrible! Would it keep you on the throne if I allow you to take this woman as a pitawan?}

{I tried that, but it's entawan or nothing. Besides, that woman is more like a sister to me.}

{And what's the good news?}

{Since I'm an only child, Pahda will allow our firstborn to ascend the throne when he or she is 25 to avoid our entire bloodline from being cut off.}

{I guess that's good.}

{Here's better news; how would you like to be married at an exotic location?}

{Floating Island?}

{Um...not exactly, but would Tch country do? You're studying all the dialects anyway, so...}

{And I suppose your 'cousin' is going to help you? Tkkla Kun, I think his name was...}

{Actually, it's Tkkla Ataka of the House of Ataka. He's my best friend; my blood brother. Besides, if I exclude him, who's going to be my herald?}

{What about your...friends in that club of yours? Truthfully, I never thought Emperor Rutor would hate those things.}

{The MATI membership was through my Mahda, Empress Birilla (seductive song), actually. When I told her of you, she's agreed to tolerate us because of your support.}

{That's good.}

(Tilor)
I had almost forgotten to tell Pijol about my Mahda giving us her summer house. She was really thrilled about that. Although it was nothing compared to the palace it was much better than nothing at all. When we told her family of our plans to be married in Tch country they were concerned about traveling costs.

{Don't worry. I'll take care of all of that. You just worry about being there.}

I contacted Tkkla to ask his permission to use the Great Hall for our wedding. I also asked him to be my herald. He graciously accepted the offer.

Everything was going smoothly with the wedding plans until my pahda, Emperor Rutor decided to cause the Hurgins some problems. He had told my mahda that he wanted to buy out their land to use for development, but I knew better.

As our wedding date drew closer, the legal battle between the Hurgins and my Pahda was heating up. To add insult to injury, the Emperor increased property taxes. By the time our Days of Preparation arrived, Pijol was an emotional wreck and I was very angry with my pahda.

(Pijol)
Our wedding day finally arrived. In spite of the battle my family was going through because of the Emperor, I managed to enjoy my marriage to my handsome prince. Tkkla was his herald and Adran was mine. The wedding was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined in my wildest dreams! The Great Hall of the Ataka mansion was decorated with the most beautiful and very expensive decorations. I knew we had the approval of the Empress when she offered to cover all of the expenses. Our ceremony was more spectacular than the one I had read of in The Unexpected Visitor. The Atakas let us use one of their private guest chambers for our wedding night. We didn't even go to sleep that night. We made love until the sunrise peeked through the windows.

(Adran)
Pijol and Tilor's wedding was so beautiful! I was very honored when Pij asked me to be her herald. After she got married, we lost touch for a while. I learned of how she was doing through her family. They told me that she and Tilor were having trouble conceiving. As if they didn't have enough troubles. My family was helping support the Hurgins in their legal battle with the Emperor. The whole community did all they could to help them fight. When their case was brought before the Chitau it was decided that the Emperor had no right to force them off their land. What a relief that our government had the Chitau to help keep our people from living in tyranny.

As time passed I continued my studies in linguistics. Soon I became a Master Translator. Not long after that I received my first research project. I was told that I would have a research partner. He was a Terran man named Jawan Valentine. When I met him at the Mua Embassy in Fountain Hill, he was an astounding sight. I didn't expect him to be so...tall! I found Jawan to be a very interesting research partner. he seemed fascinated by the Mua culture. I was very proud to share my heritage with him. I learned about his culture as well. I didn't just enjoy the work we did together. I also enjoyed his company very much.

(Pijol)
Tilor and I had been married many cycles before I was finally able to conceive a child. That was such a happy time. This meant the Ritua bloodline would be able to continue. In the midst of that good news, I also received some bad news. I hadn't heard from my friend Adran in quite a while until I started hearing rumors that she had gotten married. I would have congratulated her, but I found out who her entawan was. A Terran man! She had mated with that foreigner, and on top of that, they were also expecting their first child! Adran was a couple months further along than me. How could this have happened? I should have remained in touch with her so I could have had a chance to talk her out of this horrible mistake she had made. I was very upset about all this and told Tilor right away.

{This is truly bad news.} Tilor had said when I told him. {Humans are the worst species to marry into; they'll have anybody which risks more taint into our species' blood.}

{I can't believe this is happening. Tilor, are we...}

{I know you and Adran are close, but we have no choice. Then again, even if she wasn't with that foreigner, we would've had to kill her anyway.}

{What do you mean?}

{It was Mahda's orders. You see, she has some abilities on account of her family being High Holy Elders. Mahda knows more about spirit stones and all of that mystical stuff than anybody on this world. She also knows about the old prophecies of Vasah and Wensitu.}

{But what does that have to do with Adran?}

{Mahda sensed something about Adran, a power that could only be common among certain High Holy Elders. She believes Adran could be the Child of Light.}

{The who of what?}

{The Child of Light, Vasah's ultimate follower. It's said that the Child of Light will rise and vanquish Wensitu and his followers should our race mix blood with another species. I fear that time may have come now.}

{But if Adran is as powerful as you say...then why...}

{Her powers have gone totally dormant, thus she is vulnerable. But it is possible for her mantle to be passed on to her unborn child. We can't take the risk.}

{Is there another prophecy that could help us?}

{One other; as you know, our race is divided into four parts; Mua, Wua, Tch and Hnn. It's said if these parts are assembled into one, Wensitu will obtain his Avatar form. Mahda's working on that now, but so far, we have nothing. All we have is a counter part to the Child of Light; The Child of Fire, a mortal vessel in which Wensitu has taken residence, but the body is undergoing a resting period, so it won't be for a while.}

{I see...}

{I tell you what. I'll observe Adran and her entawan. For your sake, I'll find a way for Adran to be spared, but her entawan and future child have to go.}

{I understand.}

{Since she is so weak, we could try and steal her powers so she won't be a threat, but I don't know the technique. Mahda might; I'll have to ask her when I get the chance.}

{Okay...}

(Tkkla) When Tilor contacted me to tell me about Adran Pawamin, I wasn't happy at all with the news.

~How could such a bright young woman fall for a filthy Terran? Wasn't she good friends with Piggy?~

~Yes. She was even her herald in our wedding! It's sad really.~

~So, what are you going to do about this situation, my friend?~

~Don't worry, Tkkla. You know I have a plan...~

He had a plan all right. None of us thought it would backfire.

(Jawan)

A sweet, beautiful wife, a pretty little baby daughter, and great friends. I had it all. My life couldn't have gotten any better or any perfect. One evening I was spending time with my wife and our new baby. We had some jazz playing and I was holding Detia in my arms. Adran had come from the kitchen with a bottle for little Dee Dee, who was getting kind of fussy.

"All right, sweetheart. Mama's coming," I cooed. "You sure she'll take the bottle this time, baby? She seems to prefer the breast."

"I have to get her used to the bottle for when I return to work. I don't think they'll let me do research with a baby attached to my breast."

I laughed at the image that brought to my mind. Then I thought about it a little more.

"Actually, baby, I think that sounds kind of sexy..."

Next thing I knew I was being bopped on the head by my wife. I chuckled at her lack of a sense of humor about that comment.

A beautiful, loving wife, and an adorable, sweet little baby girl. I had it all. The perfect family I'd always wanted. That evening I was holding Detia in my arms. While Adran was bringing a bottle from the kitchen, the baby began to fuss a bit.

"All right, Dee. Hold on. Mam's coming," I cooed. "Baby, you thing she'll accept the bottle? It seems to me that she prefers the breast."

"Well, we're going to have to train her out of that by the time I go back to work. I don't think they'd allow me to do research with a baby clutching to and hanging form my breast."

I laughed at what my wife said.

"Yeah, that would look a little odd. Then again, when I think about it, that could be kind of sexy..."

Adran bopped me on the head before handing me the bottle to feed little Dee Dee.

"It was just a thought, Adran," I chuckled.

While I fed Detia, Adran sat down next to me to finish folding laundry. Everything was pretty much normal until we were startled by a noise outside the window.

(Birilla)

My morning meditation was interrupted by a telekinetic blow. The force was enough to drive me into the wall. That blow could only mean one thing; someone has failed in their mission. When a Follower of Wensitu fails a mission, he or she must escape without detection, or if that is impossible, suicide by poison. The blow signifies the latter. It wasn't long after I regained my senses that two of the initiates came into my private meditation chamber.

{Who has died?} I immediately asked. They said nothing. {I sensed someone failing their mission and joining Wensitu, now who was it?}

{It...} one of the initiates started reluctantly. {It was Tilor, Your Grace.}

{What?}

{He attempted to carry out your orders to destroy the Child of Light and her family, but something went wrong. He shot at them, and missed. They have just found his body.}

{Do they suspect anything?}

{No, Your Grace. They believe he had collapsed from illness and died then. Our condolences, Your Grace.}

{Leave me. I wish to be alone now.}

{As you wish.} The intimates left and I was in shock. Tilor dead? Even after failing a mission, he would usually get away before anyone noticed him. Dear gods...

(Pijol)

That night I had a dream. I was standing on the border of Crystal Grove and Fountain Hill, facing out to the latter. While looking over Fountain Hill, I felt someone come up behind me. I looked back and saw Tilor. He had his arms wrapped around me, hands over my pregnant belly. When I looked up into his eyes, I saw such sadness. I asked him what was wrong. He hugged me close and then spoke to me.

But I never heard his words. The next thing I knew, I woke up to the door knocking. When I answered the door, I was surprised to see Tkkla standing there. He had a very solemn look on his face.

{Tkkla?} I asked. {Tkkla, what's wrong?}

{I have to talk with you, Pijol.} he said. {May I come in?}

{Of course.} I let him in and he sat down to give me the worst news I would ever receive in my life.

{Tkkla what's wrong? Where's Tilor? He said you and he were working on a hit together.}

{Pij...I'm afraid Tilor....failed in his mission.}

{Oh...well, all you have to do is regroup and try again...}

{Pijol, you don't understand. Tilor is gone.}

{What? What happened?!}

{When a MATI fails a mission, he or she must return to base undetected. If that is impossible, the only alternative is death by poison.}

{Suicide? And Tilor...}

{I'm sorry, Pijol. I am so, so sorry.} I just sat there, shocked at the news. My beloved, dead...

{Do they suspect anything?} I croaked.

{No. Anyone who saw him believe he collapsed and died by illness.} Tkkla explained. {Again, my condolences.}

{Who was the hit?}

{The Valentines.} Upon hearing that, I was enraged. The woman whom I once considered my friend and her Terran entawan have cost me my love! I've always hated half-breeds and the such, but now I hate them more than ever. Them and the degenerate parents that produce them!! Adran and her family is going to pay for my suffering!

(Birilla)

{WHAT?!} I yelled at that pathetic excuse for an entawan. After hearing about Tilor's death, I've been trying to convince him of bringing Pijol into the House of Ritua. {WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU WON'T ACCEPT THEM INTO THE PALACE?!}

{I won't do it, Birilla.} Rutor repeated calmly. {I won't have an ill-bred child and her commoner mother in the House of Ritua.}

{This is your future grandchild, for Vasah's sake!! Surely you'd think--}

{She'll be just fine among her own kind.}

{Her own kind?! And what is her own kind, Rutor?}

{The peasantry. Just as the bastard child of Tamran was supposed to be raised.}

{Do I need to remind you that this isn't the time of Tamran, my dear? She had four other children to carry out our bloodline, while we have practically no one! The child must be brought into our fold so we can raise it into a proper royal.}

{If you were concerned about a proper royal, you should've thought of that before allowing Tilor to marry that commoner!}

{And you should've thought of that before refusing Tilor the option of taking Ginneda as his pitawan!}

{Enough! I am the Emperor and I say the commoner and her child stay right where they are! That is my final word!!!} I just stared at Rutor; I knew I should've killed him after we conceived Tilor, but no!! It would've looked too suspicious, especially since the rest of his family died not long after our marriage...after a moment of controlling myself, I got enraged and slapped him so hard his face bled from the scratches of my fingers.

{I hope you burn in the flames of Wenbaran, you arrogant bastard!} I snapped as I stormed into my chamber. I locked the door and started unleashing my power in the room. Stuff flew all over the place, violently impacting the wall. My screams of rage shattered the glass of my room. It was about an hour before my stress and rage were released. I plopped down on the bed feeling drained. That foolish lifemate of mine was my last hope of sneaking Pijol away from the outside world. I'd do it myself, but any action on my part would get the outsiders suspicious and that could pose a danger of exposing the Followers of Wensitu. As High El Undar of the Followers, I could not risk it. I pray that fate will allow my grandchild to be like Tilor; loyal and powerful for the cause.

(Pijol)

After Tilor's death, I found it hard to function in life. Tkkla took care of me throughout the rest of my pregnancy. Well, he did what he could when he came to see about me. When he couldn't Empress Birilla would come see me. She always disguised herself though. Didn't want it to be common knowledge that the heir to the throne was living in Fountain Hill. After moving to Fountain Hill I was reunited with my old friend Adran. She had changed so much since we had been roomates in the university. It was no doubt that the Terran had corrupted her. She was probably too afraid to refuse him because of his enormous size. It took a lot of effort, but I managed to be pleasant around her and her mate and their half breed spawn.

For about one cycle I had to live near the infidel and her mate. During that time, the Meglouses provided everyone with a huge shock...times four. Lsa gave birth to the first set of natural quadruplets in Fountain Hill in centuries. Although I found this event quite fascinating, Tkkla saw it as more than that. He saw it as an opportunity to expand the MATI's power.

{I fail to see how Lsa's four children are going to expand our power.} I told Tkkla.

{But it's really quite simple, my dear.} Tkkla explained. {Little Marana needs someone in her life. If you could betroth her to one of those little boys, we could easily generate more followers.}

{I suppose. But which boy?}

{The youngest one, the one who looks exactly like his Mahda.}

{Mikel? Are you sure?}

{Quite positive.}

{I'm not quite sure about that, Tkkla.}

{Trust me, dearest. It's perfect.} Somehow, I get the feeling that Tkkla took Marana's betrothal partner personally, but I didn't pry about that out of his respect. When I brought Marana over to see the quads, she responded gleefully when I brought her to Mikel. I suggested getting the two betrothed like Tkkla suggested and Makel and Lsa agreed.

(Tkkla)

So, it was settled. Little Princess Marana was betrothed to Pretty Niku's youngest son. This way my connection with the Cachulnick family would be kept in tact and perhaps forge a new one with the fabulously wealthy Meglouse family. I knew the MATI could always use more finances. Pijol and I were pleased with this arrangement, as well as little Rana. However, I got the feeling Tilor's spitting image didn't like me very much. It was as if she was jealous of me. I suppose I did spend quite a bit of time with her Mahda, but we were just friends. At least I thought we were. I had to admit I had always been attracted to Pijol, but out of respect for Tilor I kept my hands off. Well, except of that one time, but Tilor was there to give consent. I didn't think the child could pick up on that attraction, but somehow she did. And she wasn't happy about it. One evening I went to check up on my charges to see if they needed anything.

{What I need is for you to locate the Valentines so we can be rid of them,} she told me.

{Fine. Do you have any suggestions about how to get rid of them without raising suspicions?}

As we plotted together, Marana came into the living room and sat between us.

{What are you doing, Mahda?}

{Minding grown folks' business, is what,} I mumbled.

{I wasn't talking to you!} the little girl snapped.

{Rana! Address Lord Tkkla with respect! Now go upstairs to your room.}

Marana reluctantly obeyed. As Pijol and I continued our discussion, I noticed she had moved closer to me and she was leaning slightly forward. In that moment I saw more of Pijol than I'd ever seen in my life. That furtive glance made it oh so hard for me to be a gentleman. One part of me wanted to be good. That part is not very big. On the other hand, another part of me wanted to get a hold of those puppies and give em a good shake. Then the sneaky part of me took over and leaned toward her to give her a kiss. She sat back up quickly, giving me this shocked look and slightly blushing.

Oh for the love of Wensitu! I promised Tilor I'd take care of Pijol, but he was never specific on her needs. So I started seducing her. She giggled for a bit and asked what I was doing.

{Simply keeping a promise, my dear.} I replied, smiling. I noticed she did not mind what I was doing to her at all. Things were starting to get good until I felt a sharp pain in my shin.

When I cried out in pain and looked down, I saw little Marana with this ravenous look in her eyes. Before I realized what had happened she kicked me again.

{Get off my Mahda!} she growled. I tried to restrain her, but she bit my hand. What a vicious little urchin! She surely has her mahda's temper. Pijol looked horrified as she struggled to force the child to loosen her grip on my thigh.

{Careful, Pij! I need my thigh!} When she finally got the beast child off of me I had teeth marks in my thigh deep in my flesh. How was I going to explain this to Fikkia! Fortunately, Pijol got the child to go back to her room and stay there. She then took me to her bedroom to treat my wound.

(Pijol)

I couldn't believe Marana did that to Lord Tkkla! I apologized profusely as I dressed his wound. I winced myself as he jerked in pain as I cleaned it with anesthetic.

{Oh, I'm so sorry, My Lord!}

{That's all right. It's not your fault.}

After wrapping up his wounded thigh, Tkkla took my hand in his and squeezed.

{Thank you, Pijol.}

{Oh, no need for thanks, My Lord. It's the least I could do.}

{Call me Tkkla.}

Now that was a surprise. Lord Tkkla Ataka was asking me to address him in a familiar way! I thought maybe he was just flirting, but the look in his eyes told me otherwise. Before I could say another word he pulled me toward him and kissed me. That kiss was more than a friendly peck. What's strange was neither one of us had our eyes closed. I was in a bit of shock that he was kissing me like that and I guess he was watching to see what I would do. Well, kissing led to touching which led to more touching. I was careful to avoid his injured thigh. The whole experience was surreal. Before I could take in all that was happening, I was laying next to Lord Tkkla Ataka of Tch Country staring into his dark blue eyes.

And that's how our practical, and very passionate, relationship began. I sure do know how to attract royalty. Oh, well. I'm sure Tilor would approve. After all, Tkkla was right. He did promise Tilor he would take care of me. And Tkkla always seems to go beyond what's required. This Mua is not complaining.

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