Enter Sundance

Language Key:
"Standard"
{Mua}
|Mykari|


(Sundance)

I had finally arrived. Hawk Haven. A jewel set above the beautiful planet of Bedlama . It looked so beautiful from the HummingBird. I had been there many times as a child but I had never really taken the time to look at it. My heart was thumping with excitement. The music Aunty Zan was playing added to it. Cherri Berri’s ‘I Have Arrived’ was blasting on the sound system. She always seems to know how to choose just the right song for a ride. So many thoughts were whirling through my mind. I knew that my family, natural and adopted, supported me and would continue to do so. I almost didn’t make it through the program. Master Hajin died during my first year at the Academy. I was shattered. I had hoped he would live to see me complete my final Spirit Quest, the Quest for True Love. If it wasn’t for Keedra, Vasah bless him, I don’t think I could have made it through. He was supposed to come at the same time as me, but he was having complications with his implants. They didn’t seem to be agreeing well with his Martian physiology. I hoped he would be all right. It would be nice to work along side my friend…and lover. Yes, Kee was my first. And it was all my idea. He was too shy to make the first move. Nobody knows about us, though. Except for Lorie, but she’s excellent at keeping secrets.


(Phantom)

When we were on finally approach the song was ending so I played another one. It was the theme from the Last Man Standing soundtrack. I grinned to myself. Sundance and the Copper Kidd. Sounded like a western. Just hope Bluegrass doesn't pick on the pair too badly because of it.

"Hey, before you get out there's a package just behind the seat for you." I said.

It was a graduation gift of sorts. A soft suede duster and a Stetson with a white hawk feather attached to the band. On the back of the duster a beautiful design was painted. A golden sun symbol with a silver-white hawk in flight in the middle of it. Both the duster and the Stetson were a pale butterscotch color.

"Congrats on making it."


(Sundance)

After we landed I retrieved my gifts, opened them and looked them over.

"Oh Aunty Zan! They are beautiful! Thank you!" In spite of the cramped quarters, I managed to give her a big hug. We both climbed out of the cab of the ship and headed back to the cargo bay to retrieve my luggage. Uncle Leo and Uncle Jon were in the hangar working on the SprintHawk. When they saw the Hummingbird land they headed over to greet us.

"Well, well, look who's finally arrived! Welcome back, Cami!" Hotwing greeted me with a huge grin and open arms.

"Cami, you look great! I'm looking forward to you being part of the team!" QuickSilver patted me on the shoulder with his flesh hand.

"I'm sure it will be a pleasure to serve, sir!" I always approach Uncle Jon with more of a sense of respect than familiarity. He seems to prefer it that way.


(Stargazer)

Boy does time fly by. Every time I turn around a new member is being added to the team. Thinking about one particular new arrival made me feel old. All right, so I am pretty old, but I don't want to be reminded about it. I'd know her since she was five. Sweet little kid. Smart too, like her father. Looked to me like the Meglouse family was trying to build their own SilverHawk legacy. I figured Camiel would be pretty excited when she got here, like most cadets. Knowing her she would want to be put out on patrol right away, but I knew she had some adjustments to make before heading out. All in all, I had a good feeling she was going to be a great addition to the team.


(Phantom)

"Hey, Sunny, Catch ya later. If you need anything, you know how to get a hold of me." I said as I got ready to leave. I had my own bit of work to take care of. With a wave to HotWing and a nod to QuickSilver I was back in the Hummingbird and gone. Until I was needed again, that is.


(Sundance)

After dropping my luggage off in my quarters, I headed to the Commander's office. I could have teleported there, but I didn't want to give Stargazer a heart attack. I trotted down the ramp to that very familiar, old fashioned oak door with the plexiglass window (which had been repaired since that day Chatts crashed through it). I took a deep breath and knocked. When I heard the Commander's deep, gravelly voice I smiled to myself. so much had changed yet so much had remained the same.


(Stargazer)

There she was before me. A cadet fresh out of the academy. She snapped her arm up in a salute and stood at perfect attention with the biggest grin on her face. Her excitement was apparent.

“Sundance reporting for duty and ready to serve, SIR!” I couldn’t help but laugh. I wasn’t laughing at Camiel. I was just very happy for her and her excitement was contagious. As I laughed she just stood there looking a bit confused.

“At ease, cadet. And have a seat.”

"When do I start patrol, sir?"

"Hold your horses, Sundance. You just got here, and without any situations, too." About every new SilverHawk had to deal with something as soon as they got here. It seems Sundance got lucky. "Anyways, you'll be spending your first days here at Hawk Haven. When not on monitor duty, you'll be training with Corporal Sapphire. I believe you could learn a lot from her." Especially since Sapphire recently told me of her...unique abilities. I was surprised she didn't mention them sooner, but she insisted her reasons were personal, so I let it slide.

"Sapphire?" Cami seemed surprised.

"I know she doesn't have as much experience as the other 'Hawks, but I figure with her around, you could be able to adapt. Plus, she can be strict. Very strict."

"Okay..." We both heard a knock on my door.

"Enter," I said. Sapphire walked in, nodded at Camiel and turned her attention to me.

"You sent for me, sir?" she asked.

"Yes, Corporal," I replied. "I have an assignment for you."

"Does it have to do with our newest rookie?"

"You're going to be in charge of her training here. Once Sundance is ready for patrol, you're also going to accompany her and see that she gets into the routine."

"It would be my pleasure, sir."

"Good. By the way, where's Chatterbox?"

"On patrol with Tally Hawk. He should be back soon. Why?"

"I just got a complaint from the Artificial Sun about him."

Sapphire gave out a sigh. "What did he do now?"

"I didn't get the entire message, but it had something to do with...potatoes."

"I'll see that he's properly disciplined, sir."

"Just send him to me when you find him, Corporal. In the meantime, why don't you give Sundance a tour?"

"Very well, sir. Come on, rookie." Camiel followed Sapphire quickly and I rubbed my head. Great galactic ghosts, that birdbrain seems to be even more trouble than the Mob these days.


(Sapphire)

The first stop for our training session was my duty station.

"Ok, Sundance. Pretty soon you're going to have your own duty station, but for now, we're going to share mine. Each Hawk is assigned certain sectors for observation." As I showed her how to operate the COM links I answered any questions she had. I could tell she was pretty excited and wanted to get started on a sector sweep right away. "I think you'd better just watch me do it for today. Maybe tomorrow I'll let you do it under my supervision."

After my sector sweep showed no signs of trouble, we continued on our session. I showed Sundance the protocols used, the hanger and the infirmary. The last part of our stop was the workout room.

"All right, cadet." I said. "Here is where we train when not on-duty. You'll be using this place most often."

"Sapphire, do you think we could do a training session?" she asked.

"Maybe..."

"With powers?" I was a little surprised when she mentioned powers. Then I realized she was talking about her powers.

"All right," I reply. "You can use powers. Just don't expect me to hold back." We got started on a session right away. I shot a small laser towards her only to have it blocked by a light shield. I had to admit, Cami really worked on her Element and the training she received at the Academy helped her balance the energies. That wasn't exactly going to help her out, at least not with me.

"How am I doing so far?" she asked. Oh, this is going to be good.

"Great, except one thing." I shot another laser, this time I added some of my own power to it. The Shadow Element from my power was enough to shatter the light shield surrounding Sundance. I tackled her, but she was fast and managed to dodge me. "Always stay on your guard. You'll never know when your opponent has something up their sleeve."

"How did you do that?"

"The shield? I...have a few gifts of my own. While your powers are associated with light, mine are associated with shadows. They're complete opposites, so once they mix, they cancel each other out." Sundance then tried to tackle me, but I managed to dodge her by shadow 'porting. She was very confused when I disappeared. I then made my move and tackled her to the ground. Unfortunately, I accidentally shadow 'ported us into the metaphysical realm. Sundance knew what this place was, but she seemed surprise it looked so dark.

"The metaphysical realm has different looks depending on which Element you use to get here." I explain. "Only two Elements have the power to travel to the metaphysical realm; Light and Shadow." I wanted to explain more about the metaphysical realm and its association with our powers, but we ran into a bit of trouble.


(Sundance)

I suddenly felt a presence other than Sapphire's In fact, I was aware of several other beings. Powerful ones at that.

"Sapphire, someone's here! But I can't see them!" As soon as I said that I was attacked.

"Sundance!" Sapphire managed to block the attack with a dark shield. We then saw four beings appear. One of them, a female with near black skin, looked over Sapphire, and then me, and back to Sapphire.

"Very talented of you, human." the female said. "Not many ta'tori handle the Shadow Element so well. But this does not concern you."

"You attacked her." Sapphire replied, referring to me. "Why?"

"I sensed her Element. It's Light. I don't care much for Light Elements, especially the ta'tori ones."

"Who are you?"

"You'll find out, over your dead body." She then said something I couldn't understand. Next thing I knew, her three comrades surrounded Sapphire while she herself faced me. "Now...where was I?"

I looked the shadowy figure dead in the eye.

"I can tell you're quite powerful, but I've faced someone much more powerful than you and defeated him. I was only a child then and not nearly as strong as I am now. Are you sure you'll be a match for me?" My adversary then looked shocked, offended, and infuriated all at once. I wasn't kidding about what I said. It's too bad she didn't seem to believe me.

"No one insults me and lives!" The strange gem on her forehead then seemed to glow. Suddenly, sharp, black figures started heading towards me. Whoever she is must be drawing from the shadows. I remembered what Sapphire said about Light and Shadow powers and launched an energy orb. The figures quickly disappeared. "Oh, you're good, Child of Light. But I have faced many mystic fighters and they have all fallen." She launched another black figure, this time it stopped in its tracks and headed towards the other three figures, who dodged out of the way.

"Sundance, launch a flare, quick!" Sapphire called out. I did as she said. She then grabbed my hand and took us back to Hawk Haven. We had landed right in her personal quarters.

"What was that all about?" I asked. Sapphire seemed very worried.

"I have no idea." she replied. "But that woman must be very powerful to produce the Dark Blade."

"A Dark Blade?"

"One of the most powerful Elemental spells of the Shadow Element. It takes years of elemental training to be able to produce it. A strong Shadow Element helps, too, but isn't recommended. That woman must have both."

"How can you tell?"

"Elemental spells take up a lot of energy; I noticed she didn't falter after producing the Dark Blades."

"Okay..question is, who are they?" Sapphire went into her drawer and took out a metallic blue diamond and inserted it into her computer.

"When I was on the MATI Mobile Base, I hacked into their systems and downloaded all their data. Members, hits, everything about the MATI is in this little baby. Problem is, it's all encrypted and I haven't broken the code yet."

"Are you sure those people were working for the MATI? They didn't look Mimian."

"They're Mykari, Sundance. Full-blooded Mykari. Go tell the Commander what happened while I try to break this blasted code and get some answers."

"All right, Corporal." I left Sapphire's quarters for Stargazer's office.

I hurried to the Commander's office. Before I even got to his door I saw that he was at his duty station. I ran up next to his seat to get his attention.

"Commander, sir! Please excuse the interruption but I have something important to report to you!" I explained the recent incident as best I could

"So much for avoiding an incident." he sighed as I finished my story. "Any idea who they were?"

"Sapphire said they looked like Mykari." I explained. Hotwing came up as soon as I said that.

"What's this about Mykari?" he asked.

"Some kind of Mykari group attacked Sundance." Stargazer explained. "Sapphire thinks they may be associated with the MATI."

"Can you describe this Mykari group?" Hotwing asked me.

"Well, there were four of them; three attacked Sapphire. One concentrated entirely on me. She had black skin and seems to have a very powerful Shadow Element." I noticed Hotwing began to pale when I said that.

"Did...the woman have a skull gem on her head?" he questioned. "Silver, shaped like a diamond?" I nodded. "By the Goddess..."

"I take it you know who this is, Hotwing." Stargazer said.

"I know that group, sir. They're a Mykari mercenary group called the Hav'Throth. The woman Sundance describes is wanted by Mykari law for murder one and as the accomplice of a conspiracy."

"Is she their leader?"

"Yes. Her name is Lenaria Zantara; she is said to be very dangerous. It's rare anyone survives a battle against her."

"You said she was an accomplice for a conspiracy..."

"When the MATI were exposed, the Mykari started looking deeper into the Hav'Throth's work. Turns out most of their targets were Mykari of Mimian heritage. Their last target was the granddaughter of a respected member of Her Imperial Holiness's court."

"Anything else you can tell us about the Hav'Throth?"

"No, sir. I'm sorry, but that's all I know."

I left the Commander's office with a troubled heart. It was bad enough the MATI was after me. Now some of their Mykari friends were after me too! I met up with Sapphire and told her what I found out. She told me she would do everything she could to help against the Hav'Throth. On my way to my quarters I crossed paths with Moonstryker. He said he had some news for me.

"Hey, Sundance. There's someone in the rec room waiting for you. Says he wants to see you as soon as possible. Looks like a Martian." A Martian? Could it be? It must be! I ran to the rec room to find my boyfriend waiting for me. This day didn't turn out so bad after all.


(Keedra)

I had finally made it to Hawk Haven. I almost didn't make it because I had problems with my cybernetic implants before I could even leave Earth. Fortunately the modifications Professor Balister and Nurse Mavis made were a roaring success. When I had arrived, I was told Camiel was training with Corporal Sapphire. SteelWill was my trainer. We didn't go out on patrol. He just showed me how to operate the duty station and gave me a brief tour. I guess that’s routine for rookies. After my training for the day was over I decided to hang out in the rec room. I met some of the other Hawks there. Condor, Moostryker, and SteelHeart. When Moonstryker headed out I asked him to let Cami know where I was if he saw her. Boy was I happy to see her come in the door grinning from ear to ear.

I greeted Camiel with open arms as she ran up and hugged me.

"Keedra, you're here! I'm so glad you made here okay!" Gods, it felt good to hold her in my arms again! I noticed the others were giving us strange looks.

"Umm, Cami, I think we'd better go someplace more private...like my quarters. I could use some help unpacking," I whispered.

"Ok, Kee. I understand," she whispered back.

While Camiel and I unpacked my things she began to tell me about something that happened to her just before my arrival. I knew the MATI was after her. But now a new enemy had reared it's ugly head. I promised Cami I would do everything in my power to protect her.


(Pijol Ritua Ataka)

I made sure the room was pitch dark before I started. I still recall witnessing their summoning years ago. Tilor had taught me the incantation to the candle not long after we wed. Tkkla and Fikkia wanted to stay with me as I summoned the Hav'Throth, but I felt I needed to do this alone. Well, I got my wish except for the fact Mon*Star wanted to see this for himself. After a moment of hesitation, I lit the candle and repeated the incantation:

Path of blood, path of gold
I summon the ones who are bold.
To come to my aid, far and near,
Shadow Raiders, now come here!

The incantation was in Mykari, but I had no problem in speaking it. I told Mon*Star to stay back from the candle. It wasn't long before the result I longed for came.

{Hello, Mistress Tarin.} I said, knowing that she's the one who speaks our tongue. {It has been a long time.}

She looked me over, and turned to Mistress Zantara, who was eyeing Mon*Star carefully. {Lady Pijol Ritua,} Tarin replied. {I remember now. What business do you have in summoning us?}

{I think you already know my reasons.} Zantara wasn't too pleased with the situation. She pushed Tarin out of the way and looked me dead in the eye.

"You dare to summon me in the presence of that ta'tori?!" she yelled. So she speaks English. How convenient.

"Mon*Star is an ally of ours." I explained. "Is that a problem?"

"I do not work with Light Elements! Explain your business or do not waste my time!"

"We have a target for you."

"The Child of Light?"

"Yes...how--"

"I ran into her and another ta'tori in my travels. Sadly to say, they are very powerful."

"Could you describe this ta'tori?"

"A Shadow Element, weak but effective. But she also has a powerful Mind Element. A human with blue armor and ice-cold eyes to match." Why does that description sound familiar?

"Will you do the job? Exterminate the Child of Light and all she holds dear?"

"The Child of Light, I shall handle myself. For free." That was a total shock. "But I will charge you our usual, per head of her family and comrades."

That seemed fair. I gave the Hav'Throth their usual payment in advance. I told them I shall pay them the rest upon commencement and proof of the job. After one last dirty look towards Mon*Star, Zantara and her group disappeared.

"She doesn't seem to care for me all that much." Mon*Star laughed. "But are you certain they'll do the job?"

"If anyone can destroy that mongrel," I answered. "The Hav'Throth can."


(Sundance)

I was so happy that Keedra had made it to Hawk Haven safe and sound. I told him about what happened with the Hav'Throth. He asked if I was alright. I assured him that I was fine.

"What I don't understand is why a Mykari group would care if someone is mixed or not."

"I'm told they're a group of mercenaries. I assume they do it solely for the money, Kee. Anyway, let's not talk about that anymore. You said you're done for the day and so am I. So let's spend some time together, ok?"

"I thought we were already spending time together." I smiled and looked down at the floor while running a hand through my hair. I then stepped up to him, pulled him into a hug and laid my head on his chest.

"Keedra, sometimes you can be so clueless."


(Sapphire)

I did it. After four years, I finally did it! Pleased with my progress, I rushed over to the Commander's office with my diamond.

"I assume you have good news, Corporal?" he asked me.

"Yes, sir." I replied. "I finally broke the code on that data stream I picked up. We now know every single MATI secret there is." I placed the diamond into the computer and accessed it. Every single detail about the MATI was right in there.

"Good work, Sapphire." Stargazer said. "Now we can finally clean up this terrorist mess." We looked through that data for quite a while; its members were mostly in the aristocracy, thus how the MATI were able to afford the Hav'Throth's services. What I couldn't believe is how many law enforcement officers and members of the Chitau, the Mimian legal court, were in on this cult. I noticed the MATI also kept track of their victims and potential targets. One particular target caught my eye. "What in the--is that who I think it is?"

"Amaryo Wek, President and Founder of the Intergalatic Rainbow Coalition." I said. "His family's highly respected in Mykari society, but it says here the house of Wek was targeted several years ago. Only one member was successfully terminated, and that was his M'Tah, Ambassador Elara. By the gods..."

"What?"

"That was the hit that pitted the entire Mykari military against the Hav'Throth. I learned about this murder, but I never dreamed it was caused by hate."

"The MATI represent a god that indulges in destruction. Hate and prejudice are its ultimate paths. Is there anything else on the Hav'Throth?"

"Only the makings of a summoning candle, entrusted only to the MATI leaders."

"Summoning candle?"

"It's created to summon travelers of the metaphysical realm. The makings and the summoning incantation depends on whoever is summoned."

"Zantara is said to have a powerful Shadow Element."

"I can confirm that, sir. She's also very advanced in it. If you're thinking I have a chance against her, well...the only Shadow spells I know are shadow 'porting and a few Shadow-Mind combos. My telepathic and telekinetic abilities can provide an advantage, but Sundance's Light Element are the only thing that can cancel out Shadow spells."

"Does it say how Wek avoided further confrontations with the Hav'Throth?"

"It says that it's been known that Wek and his P'Tah currently wear neutrality stones, tuned specifically to the Shadow Element. We could try that on Sundance, but it would prohibit me getting to her quickly."

I thought it would be a good idea to inform Sundance of everything I had discovered about the MATI. I went to her quarters to talk to her, but there was no answer. I checked the rec room, but she wasn't there either. I asked SteelHeart if she'd seen Camiel lately.

"Last time I saw her she was with the other new Hawk. You know, the one Will's been training."

"SandPhoenix?"

"Yeah, that's the one."

"Any idea where they went?"

"Think they said something about going to his quarters," SteelHeart continued with a little smile. Camiel had gone off to some guys quarters by herself. I was getting kind of an odd feeling. I was used to seeing Cami as a child, not a woman with her own personal adult life.


(Sundance)

After spending some quality time with Keedra, we took a nap together in his quarters. When I woke up he wasn't there. I sat up and saw that he was at his COM station. I could hear him talking to someone.

"Yes, she's here. I'll go get her for you."

"Kee, who is it?"

"It's Corporal Sapphire. Says she really needs to talk to you."

I sat down at his COM station to take the call.

"Sundance here. What's up Sapphire?"

"Sundance, I found out some information about the Hav'Throth that should help put them out of commission."

Sapphire definitely had my attention then. I listened very carefully as she explained her plan.


(Lenaria)

I waited patiently for Waetar to awaken from his trance. He went in Astral form to see just exactly what we were up against. I just hope he doesn't get himself sensed. Ranito is off trying to seduce Lynei (again). Poor little boy; I almost feel sorry for him. I could tell Lynei is becoming less and less patient with him. She's been like that since that Wek assassination. I don't blame her, though; she has already expressed her dislike for the MATI, our best customers and with Mykari law chasing us, the stress is bound to pick up. But I am confident they won't catch us. Waetar is coming out of his trance. Good; what sort of aid does this Child of Light have?

|What did you see?| I asked.

|Mistress, we have our work cut out for us, that's for certain.| he explained. |There are other ta'tori among the SilverHawk ranks.|

|How many?|

|Two humans, both with an untrained Heart Element and a telepathic bond between them. The third one...will be more of a match.|

|What is the Element and lineage?|

|Fire. He is of dual heritage; human and Mykari.|

|A halfling? Great...|

|There's more; I managed to go down to the planet below their base and learned about this halfling; he is of the house of Xetrato.|

|Avatar Cerata's pet Ambassador. That halfling must be her son...| Lynei started to get worried.

|Mistress, with all due respect, we should cancel this mission.| she cried. |We've already angered one important house; we don't need the Xetrato house on our backs, too.|

|Lynei, we are going through with this, one way or another.| I said. |Do not worry. He is merely a halfling.|

|A human halfling. Who knows what kind of power he possesses!|

|I am not about to anger the MATI house. They are more dangerous than the Avatar herself! We will proceed with this mission.|

|But what if the MATI's ta'tori friend shows up?| Ranito asked.

|If that yungar decides to interfere, I will dispatch him personally. Right now, we must develop a plan to get our pay.| My colleagues and I soon began conjuring up something. I sent Lynei to research Mimian culture; perhaps there is something there we can use to our advantage. I do hope Lord Ataka does not mind her going through the MATI's library...


(SandPhoenix)

I overheard what Cami and Sapphire were discussing. After their conversation ended, I spoke to Camiel about what I'd heard.

"Cami, are you sure you want to take on such a dangerous mission?"

"It's not like I'll be facing them alone, Kee. Sapphire is going to help. Hotwing might even be able to offer assistance."

"Camiel, I want to help too."

"Kee, that's sweet, but I'm not sure if you'll be able to help in this particular situation. No offense."

"Cami...I love you and I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I know," she replied as she pulled me into her arms and kissed me tenderly. "I'll be fine, Kee. Stop worrying."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive." I could hear confidence in her voice, but her eyes betrayed her. All I could see in them was fear.


(HotWing)

After learning about the Hav'Throth, I began to be concerned. I've not faced them before, but I've heard of them from M'Tah. Zantara is the most dangerous of the group because of her Shadow Element. The rest of them have dual Elements, either Basic or Evolved. This will most certainly be a challenge. I normally don't use my family's influence, but this was a special case. I needed to know everything about the Hav'Throth, and I was willing to do anything to get that information. I knew of one person who would know about the Hav'Throth.

|Hello?| my COM said. Thank the Goddess, he's home. |Who is it?|

|Hello, Uncle Varyn.| I greeted.

|Lyore? Is that you?|

|Yes, Uncle, it's me.|

|It is good to hear from you, nephew.| I smiled. My uncle's a monk at a temple on the homeworld. Before that, he used to be in the military until an accident cost him his sight, or so I was told. I knew if anyone could tell me about the Hav'Throth, he could.

|Uncle, I'm sorry to say that this isn't a social call. I need your help.|

|I see. What can I do for you, nephew?|

|I need all the information you have on the Hav'Throth.| He paused when I said that. It was then he started rubbing the scar on his face, where his eyes should be. Accident, huh?

|The Hav'Throth are in Limbo?| he asked.

|Yes, and they're after a friend of mine. A ta'tori of both Mimian and human lineage.|

|What is her Element?|

|Light.|

|Then your friend is truly in grave danger. Lenaria Zantara is known to despise the Light Element and its holders; ta'tori are especially vulnerable to her hatred.|

|I need to know about the other Hav'Throth, if possible. I know Zantara has a record for murdering M'Tah's old mentor...|

|The only other Hav'Throth member with a record other than as an accomplice is Waetar Egani, for practicing the Forbidden Arts.|

|And the other two?|

|Lynei Tarin and Ranito Karnte, no record. Other than accomplices to the Wek murder, that is.|

|What are their Elements?|

|Tarin has a dual Element of Sound and Ice; that's how the Hav'Throth are able to communicate with the MATI in the first place. Egani has Fire and Earth and Karnte has Metal and Lightning. The only one with a single Element is Zantara; her Element is--|

|Shadow, I know; they had already attacked my friend.|

|And she survived?|

|Barely, but only because we have another ta'tori with us. A human with a Shadow-Mind Element.|

|Lyore, I want you to be careful. The Hav'Throth are not to be underestimated.|

|I will, Uncle, and thanks.|

|You do realize that I will have to inform your M'Tah, and the Mykari military about this?|

|You do that. I need to go over a battle plan with the other 'Hawks anyway. Tell M'Tah not to worry about me; I can handle things out here.|

|I pray that is true, nephew.|

I knew we had to be prepared to deal with the Hav'Throth, so I called a strategy meeting between me, Sapphire, and Sundance. I knew we were about the only ones who could deal with the likes of them. I decided to present the others with my plan before we went to the Commander to get his approval.


(Chatterbox)

Oh, goody! Cami's a 'Hawk now, and my Artificial Sun-baked potatoes are ready just in time! I fixed them up just for this occasion. As I entered Hawk Haven with my bucket of potatoes, I nearly banged into Tally. Watch it, pal! Unfortunately, the near collision tossed me off of my flight pattern and I was flying all over the place. Ay, cariumba, those potatoes were heavy! To gain some altitude (and control), I let go of the bucket. However, I didn't exactly realize just where they landed.

I more heard than saw where they landed when I heard someone cry out in pain. When I looked down I saw HotWing hopping on one foot. Uh oh, my bad! Mea culpa! good thing he had his armor on. Could have broken his foot.

"Chatterbox!" How does Sapphire always know when it's me involved? "What are you doing?"

"Ummm...sun baked potato anyone?"

"Chatts, we are very busy right now. We don't have time for your antics!"

"Ok, then, maybe later?" Seska just glared at me as she helped Leo limp into the Commander's office with Camiel. I wondered what was so important that three of the most powerful SilverHawks would all be in the same meeting. Oh, well. No harm in eavesdropping!

As I made my way to the Commander's office, I saw one of the other rookies, a Martian called SandPheonix. What in the galaxy was he doing? I noticed he was at the door ahead of me. Will wasn't here, so it couldn't be a training exercise. I better ask him.

" Scusi, rookie." I said, startling him. "Can I help you with something?"

"No." he snapped. How rude!

"Well, I don't think you'll last long in listening in on a meeting."

"I don't know what you're talking about." We kept our voices down so we wouldn't get caught.

"Hey, I know an eavesdropper when I see one."

"Look, you cyber loony. I'm dealing with a lot right now, including some Mykari mercenaries going after my love by order of the MATI; so back off." Did he say love? Wait a sec, Mik's married, so the only other 'Hawk the MATI would be after is...

"You're kidding. You and Cami?"

"Yea. Got a problem with that?"

"I'll believe it when I see it!" No way! Cami wouldn't get involved with someone before her final Spirit Quest, would she? I mean, I know she's been through a lot with her mentor dying, but... Why do I have a bad feeling about this Phoenix guy?


(Sundance)

When the three of us entered the Commander's office, he gave us an odd look. He obviously noticed Sapphire and me helping Hotwing over to the bench.

"You all right, Hotwing?"

"Yes sir. Just a slight foot injury. Nothing serious."

"We'll discuss your foot later. Hotwing, you told me you three have put your heads together to form a plan to take on the Hav'Throth. Tell me what ya got."

"I spoke to my uncle recently," Leo continued. "As you know, he's very close to Master Amaryo Wek, son of the late Elara Wek. Master Wek is going to provide Sundance with her very own neutrality stone to protect her from further attacks by the Hav'Throth."

"Ok, that covers the defensive part, but what about the offensive? How are we going to find these people and put them out of commission?"

That's when Sapphire spoke up.

"I can easily train Sundance and myself to match Zantara's skill." she explained. "Most of it is all energy manipulation, so it shouldn't be too difficult."

"All right." Stargazer replied. With that settled, the meeting was adjourned. As we started going out the door, we couldn't help but see Chatts and Kee nearby, glaring at each other. Sapphire and Hotwing just shot glares at the both of them.

"Cami!" Chatts called. "Can we talk?"

"Yea, sure." I said. I excused myself and went with Chatts to the hangar. {All right, Chatts, what is it?}

{I just wanted to talk to you about something.} he answered.

{About how you and Keedra were eavesdropping.}

{No! Okay, so we were, but for a very good reason.}

{I can understand, though. You two both care about me and are worried about me.}

{'You two'? Don't tell me he's right about you two dating!}

{Why not? He's been sweet, and we've been together since the Academy.} Chatts got pretty upset when I told him that.

{Are you insane?! Need I remind you that you got a third Spirit Quest that involves true love?! I certainly know this Keedra is anything but!}

{Why are you saying such things?!}

{Because I know guys like him! They love preying upon unsuspecting girls!}

{Oh please! What makes you think that?}

{He's a Martian, for the love of Dios!}

{So?!}

{Everyone from Earth to Limbo knows that Martians are the biggest womanizers in the universe! Too many coincidences to dismiss anything said about their sexual practices.}

{Like what?}

{To them, women are nothing more that mere playthings; they use them and if a married man dies, his next of kin takes all of his wives!}

{Kee is nothing like his people!}

{Oh, yea, I'm so sure!}

{He isn't!}

{Just tell me you ain't sleeping with him!}

{I can't tell you that.}

{Why...} He soon realized why. {Oh, no! Camiel!!! Not good! Now I know you're in trouble!}

{I don't want to hear anymore of this!} As I walked out, I heard Chatts say something about Kee wanting me because he can claim me as a virgin. That's not true! It can't be true! Can it?


(SandPhoenix)

I don’t know what that birdbrain was talking to Cami about, but I was glad when she finally walked away from him.

“Camiel, what was that all about?”

“What?”

“You and the parrot.”

“Oh! Nothing important. We can talk about it later if ya want.”

“All right. So how did the meeting go?”

“Fairly well. Talked about a few things about Mykari powers that I didn’t quite understand. What I do understand is this; neutrality stones can protect me from them. Master Amaryo Wek and his Pahda have used them for cycles and they have been safe from the Hav’Throth.”

“Who’s Amaryo Wek?”

“Founder of the Intergalactic Rainbow Coalition. He’s a civil rights activist for those who are of mixed species.”

“Like you.”

“Yes. I’m part Mimian and human.”

“I see. So, are you going to get one of these neutrality stones?”

“Yes. Sapphire and Hotwing are working on that.”

“In the meantime, I will do everything in my power to protect you, my love.”

“Keedra, that is so sweet, but I believe I can handle things fine.”

“But I want to protect you from harm!”

Cami hugged me and kissed my cheek.

“Kee, it’s my job to protect and serve, as well as yours. Don’t worry so much about me. I’ll be fine.”

I knew she was just trying to put me at ease. She hates to see me worry. She tried to make it seem like she had everything under control, but I knew better. I was going to do everything I could to make sure she was safe until she had the neutrality stone in her possession.


(Lenaria)

The fact that the Child of Light is friends with the house of Xetrato made me rush back to wherever she is as soon as I was well rested. I went there alone; can't take any chances in my group getting caught. I stepped out into the physical realm to find myself in a private quarters. Hmm...strange that I haven't been sensed, yet. I looked around my surroundings. Yes, definitely somewhere on that Hawk Haven I've heard so much about. As I kept looking, I saw a picture on the table. It was of the Child of Light...and a Martian! Hmm, looked like, yes, definitely from the House of Fasir. I recognize that breed anywhere. Not exactly fond memories of them, but they were there. From the looks of this picture, they seem to be close. Too close. Oh dear...

"Who's there?" A voice nearly startled me, and I turn to have whoever it was pinned to the wall by the throat. Ah, what luck! The Fasir boy.

"Well, well, well." I taunt. "If it isn't a man of Fasir. Keedra, right? I must say I am disappointed. Not surprised, but disappointed."

"Who...who are you?" he whispered.

"Your worst nightmare."

"What do you want?"

"I came to destroy the Child of Light for a nice profit, but you've just made my job more tolerable than usual."

"You...you're the ones after Camiel, aren't you?"

"So what if I am? Truth be told, what I plan to do will be a mercy compared to whatever plans you had for her."

"I...I won't let you harm my lover."

"Lover?! Hahahaha!!! Oh, you're a riot, Fasir! Whatever trauma the Child of Light went through must've made her a real basket case if you were able to get her in the same bed as you."

"You lie. She loves me, and I love her."

"Ha! I know the way you Martians work, and it involves anything but love. To you, females are nothing more than mere toys to entertain you until they get broken. Once that happens, you throw them away. Well, if it weren't for the fact you throw your women away in oblivion instead of the nearest market, you'd be exactly like that yungar of a brother of yours."

"How do you know him?"

"Oh, I know Qubo very well. Next time you see him, do tell him Lenaria says hello, and that she hasn't forgotten him for one second." With that, I threw him in the opposite wall and left. I must admit, it was very tempting to kill him right then and there. But, if I know Martian culture, I'd be making the situation much worse. Keedra's already claimed the Child of Light as his own, so if I kill him, she'd belong to his bastard brother, Qubo, and that's not good. In the metaphysical realm, I decided to find the Child of Light and quickly so her death will be painless. It's best for both of us, really; I get my pay and she gets to avoid living as a Martian's slut. I'd wait for the preparations I arranged to be completed, but time is essential. I couldn't wait for my ally, Reuin, to send me the neutrality stone tuned to the Light Element. I had to kill her, now.


(Sundance)

After coming back from patrol, I met up with Keedra in his quarters. He seemed nervous about something, but he wouldn’t tell me why.

“What’s wrong, Kee?”

“Oh, nothing. Just a little stressed by everything that’s going on.”

“Keedra, I told you not to worry. Everything will be fine. Master Amaryo Wek is going to bring me my very own neutrality stone. It will protect me from the Hav’Throth.”

“I certainly hope so. I don’t know what I’d do if something happened to you. I love you so much.”

“I love you too, Kee. You’ve got to trust me when I tell you I’ll be ok. Master Hajin once told me the no one can keep me from fulfilling my destiny. My life is in the hands of Vasah. I have a purpose and I will fulfill it.”

"Perhaps." He said something else, but I suddenly found myself dragged into the metaphysical realm! Oh, boy! I think I was distracted by Kee's worry to have been caught off-guard like that. I then saw the woman I battled earlier, standing there, ready to battle.

"Lenaria Zantara." I stated.

"I see my reputation has preceded me." she mocked. "I assume it's all good?"

"Cut the act, Lenaria. I know who and what you are. Tell me, how can you work for a group such as the MATI?"

"They pay very well, plus I have a personal intolerance to your Element. Add to the fact that you're with a Martian, especially that one, I'm surprised you're not planning your funeral."

"I told you already; you stand no chance against me."

"You may be somewhat stronger than me, but when it comes to these types of magics, I am the most skilled and experienced, thus in this battle, I shall emerge victorious."

"We shall see."

"Just don't wait for any of your little ta'tori friends; I placed a special spell over this region so that no one goes in or out until we settle this. It's just you and me, Child of Light."

"You've made a big mistake underestimating me."

"Believe it or not, child, death is for your own good. You have no idea what kind of future is in store if you remain with that Martian yungar."

"And you do?"

"I know plenty, and were it not inconvenient or lacking in profits, I'd slaughter him and all of his male brethren."

"I won't let you harm him."

"It's you I want. Don't try to fight me and I'll make this quick."

"Like you did for Mistress Wek?"

"Oh, that! I tried to make it easy for her, but the stupid Wa'Ma kept trying to protect her. Alas, his efforts were futile and I had to deal with him before getting to her. I must admit, his determination to protect her was admirable. Stubborn, brave, relentless until the end and sharp in all things...I would expect no less from the house of Xetrato."

“You know what? I’m tired of this talk. You want to fight me, then fight me!” I brandished my light sword and took a fighting stance. What followed had to be one of the most difficult battles I’ve ever had. My light sword shattered her shadow blades easily. Unfortunately, my sword also kept shattering. I had to quickly replace it to keel protecting my self. At one point I as able to get through her defense. I managed to slice her from the top of her left shoulder down to her right side. I had managed to injure her, but that didn’t deter her attacks. That only seemed to make her angrier and fight harder.

"You will pay!"

"It doesn't have to be this way, Zantara. Let me out of here and we'll see that you get a fair trial."

"A fair trial. Me? Sorry, that sort of thing doesn't exist for my group, especially me. The only way you're going to take down my little barrier spell is to kill me, a task much easier said than done, I assure you." She then charged me, but I had a blade ready and sliced her again. She recoiled back, and I felt her magic weaken a bit. I immediately tried to return to the physical realm. Good news was that Lenaria was weak enough to get through her spell.

Bad news was we didn't emerge into Hawk Haven.

"Foolish little girl." she whispered. "Did you think I was stupid enough to allow our battlefield to be near your territory? No..."

"You're injured."

"Obviously I am. But there is no way you are taking me in, SilverHawk. I am not going to be persecuted by those fools in Mykari society!"

"You're going to have to; you murdered several civilians."

"And yet all they care about is the one who's near what you would call high society. I do face many charges, true and false, but no one catches the Hav'Throth. We'll meet again, Child of Light. Very soon." Then she tossed herself over the asteroid with her remaining strength. I immediately looked where she fell and saw no sign of her. Damn it!


(Lenaria)

I was far too injured to continue this battle. So I pulled an old Hav'Throth trick; go over an edge and used an absorbance crystal with my magic to make my way back into the metaphysical realm. I collapsed as soon as I re-emerged into the secret base my comrades and I stationed.

|What happened?!| Ah, my dear Lynei. Always concerned for my safety. She gently escorted me to my quarters and healed whatever wounds I sustained as I recounted the battle I had for her. |You should've waited until Reuin got us that neutrality stone tuned to the Light Element.| she nagged.

|I couldn't wait.| I explained. |The Child of Light was endangered into becoming a whore.|

|What?|

|She's with the Fasir boy.|

|Oh deities!|

|Fortunately for her, if there's one thing I can't stand more than ta'tori with Light Elements, it's Martians. I had to try and finish the job.|

|Now what? We can't take another shot at her; Ranito's just gotten word that the High Holy House of Cerata is coming to Limbo in a few months! There's no way we'll get to the Child of Light without getting caught!|

|Inform Lord Ataka that I am injured in a battle with the Child of Light. I will make another assault once I have recuperated.|

|Understood.|

|By the way, has that neutrality stone arrived yet?|

|Yes. It's on your night table. Now rest.|

|Thank you, Lynei. There's no one I trust more than you.|


(Chatterbox)

It wasn't very long before we got the neutrality stone for Cami that we heard there was another attempt on her. Geez, these Hav'Throth don't give up, do they?! Well, in any case, she's protected now. I, on the other hand, am officially bored! Luckily, I had a little party planned on Dolar. Yes! Gotbucks got the karaoke machine set up and it is time to par-tay!


(Sundance)

That bird! He never seems to get enough trouble so he stirs it up for himself! Chatts invited me to the karaoke party, but I declined. I was a bit stressed and needed to relax. I knew a party was not the answer. I needed to meditate. It was time for me to begin my final Spirit Quest. I don’t know why I had put it off for so long. I got along with Keedra and loved him very much. I believed in my heart he was my one true love. However, we had not developed a kyven bond yet. I thought perhaps it was because Keedra has a troubled spirit. He has told me he has serious family problems. As for myself, I had been neglecting my spiritual training and needed to get back into the habit of daily meditation.

I haven't been meditating long before I heard my two spirit guides. Odd...I thought I was supposed to receive a third spirit guide for my last quest.

{You were. He'll show himself when the time comes.}

"Meanwhile, you must distance yourself from your current lover."

What? But why?

{It's the only way to complete your quest, Camiel. There's much you need to learn before getting too deeply involved with someone.}

"Your jamahda's right, Cami. This relationship does not have a stable base. It was built on grief and if it continues, terrible things will happen."

Like what?

{We can not say; all we can tell you now is that distance is required. Only time will tell if the two of you are meant to be.}

"Just trust us. If not for your heart, for yourself." I snapped out of my meditation right then and there. I couldn't believe what my spirit guides just told me; I had to stay away from Keedra? How can I, when he's done so much for me? Then again, Japahda Jawan is right; our relationship is based on grief. I admit I wasn't thinking clearly after Master Hajin died, but I knew what I wanted. I also know how much completing my final quest means to me, to the universe. Without the Child of Light, Wenbaran will be unstoppable. Is that what they're trying to tell me? Well, then...I better find Keedra and tell him that we need to stay apart for a while. Vasah knows this isn't gonna be easy!


(Keedra)

It’s finally arrived, thank the gods! A beautiful, all natural, light blue promise stone for the love of my life, Camiel Meglouse. It was in perfect condition, polished to perfection, and set into a beautiful necklace. I just knew Cami would love it. I knew she loved me and that we were meant to be together. I rehearsed my proposal over and over again in my mind and in front of a mirror to make sure I didn’t fumble and stumble over my words of love to her. I knew without a doubt she would say yes. We had been together since our SilverHawk Academy days and there was no sign of us ever calling it quits. While I was going over my proposal, I heard my door chime go off. Someone was at my door. I was pleasantly surprised and a little caught off guard when I saw my love standing before me.

"Keedra," she started. "We need to talk."

"Okay." I replied, letting her in. "Coincidently, I was going to look for you, too."

"Well, I think we need to..."

"Yes?"

"Distance ourselves a bit."

"What?" This was NOT what I was expecting. "But, why?"

"My spirit guides told me."

"You're kidding, right?" I laughed. "This is a big joke, isn't it?"

"No, Kee, it's not." From the look on her face, I could see she was serious.

"Cami, don't. Please, don't."

"I have to."

"Damnit, Cami! It should be up to you whether or not you want to be with me, not whatever specters you claim to see!!" I noticed she got really upset about that.

"HOW DARE YOU?! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT'S IN STORE FOR MY LIFE?! IT'S EITHER YOU OR THE UNIVERSE AND I'M DAMN SURE THE FORMER WILL MEAN NOTHING WITHOUT THE LATTER!" Then she ran out, leaving me in utter shock. I gripped the promise stone in my hand (I had it behind my back so I could surprise her) and I squeezed the necklace until it cracked into dust. This was not happening, this was not happening...


(Sundance)

I was so hurt by Keedra’s reaction. I had hoped he would be more understanding. Then again, my news had to be a great shock to him. After that heart wrenching confrontation
I rushed to my quarters, plopped down in the middle of the floor and began sobbing. I don’t know how long I wept, but I wept until there were no more tears left. While I lay quietly curled up in the middle of the floor, I heard someone at my door. It was Chatterbox. The karaoke party must have ended early.

{Cami, you've gotta hide me!} he shouted. {Sapphire found out about the party and she is furious! Sheesh, ya think after being around me all these years, she'd learn to--heya, chica bonita, what's wrong?}

{Nothing.} I sniffled.

{Oh, so the tears are nothing?}

{It's...it's Keedra...}

{I KNEW IT!!! I KNEW THAT NO-GOOD COMERCIANTE DE MUJERES WOULD HURT YOU!!! NOW WHERE IS THAT PUNK!? I'LL SHOW HIM FOR HURTING YOU!!!}

{He didn't do anything, Chatts. I left him.} He seemed shocked at first, then gave me a look full of puzzlement and concern.

{Uh, Camiel, I'd hate to break this to you, especially now, but there's usually no such thing as leaving a Martian, especially after you slept with him. They have specific cultural rules that the first Martian a woman gives up her virginity to is basically her master.}

{Chatterbox! Do you have to bring that up?! Besides, that only applies to the indigenous people.}

{Only to satisfy any intergalactic alliances, especially with the Mykari. I've seen first hand that those two races are anything but amigo brothers. So, what made you change your mind about him?} I told Chatts my vision. He looked like he was going to say something at first, but then he seemed to decide against it.

{It's probably for the best.} he finally said. {I mean, maybe your spirit guides are testing you two or something, to make sure that the love is true.}

{But it is true! We've been serious since the Academy.}

{Before or after your mentor died?} I paused for a second. {Camiel Jezel Meglouse, are you telling me that you used him from the start as a sort of comfort?! Debo haber sabido que él se aprovecharía de eso.} I should have known he would take advantage of that.

{I wasn't thinking, okay?!}

{Camiel, I knew you were upset after what happened to Master Hajin, but I'd never thought you'd be vulnerable to sexual manipulation!} The tears started flowing from me again. {Oh, Cami, don't cry...please don't. I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean to make you upset...}

{Just...just go, Chatts. I need to be alone.}

{All right, Camiel. You know where to find me.}


(SandPhoenix)

I know Cami had told me she wanted us to be apart for a while, but I just couldn’t let her go without really talking to her. Not long after she left my quarters I went to hers. I crossed paths with that annoying macaw, Chatterbox.

“I suggest you go back to wherever you came from, chico. Cami doesn’t want to be bothered.”

“Then what the hell are you doing here?”

“Never mind that, you just get going!”

“I’ll let Cami decide whether she wants me to go or stay.”

When Camiel answered the door, I could already tell right away that she had been crying. I immediately stepped into the door, in spite of the parrot’s squawking, and put my arms around her. She immediately began sobbing again.

“Oh, Cami, please don’t cry. I know this has to be hard for you. And I’m sorry about the way I reacted. Will you forgive me?”

I felt her nod into my chest.

“Listen, I’m going to back off and give you the time you need to sort things out. We both know we’re meant to be together so a little time apart won’t kill us, right?”

She nodded again.

“Thank you for being understanding.”

“For you, I’d do anything.”

After we hugged, I left her quarters. She said she had to get some rest. That very evening I decided to let Cami do what she felt she had to do. I had no problem with her quest as long as we ended up back together. And I was determined to make sure that came to pass.

~END~

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