Chapter 15
"Where is Buck now?" Hawk asked, as he placed the harness on the
table.
"He's gone up to talk to the Admiral about something," Wilma replied.
Hawk gave a light nod and started to walk towards the door. Hawk
stopped and turned his head slightly to look over his shoulder at
Wilma. "It's the only way," he said. Hawk placed his hand on the
control panel, the door opened and he exited his quarters turning in
the direction of the bridge.
Wilma stood there momentarily, not believing what Hawk just said.
"How can he risk his own life like that?" she thought to herself. She
slowly walked out the door and headed for the bridge herself.
Up on the bridge Buck was explaining to the Admiral what his plan was
to lure the Kaalans out of hiding.
"Is Lela all right with this idea?" Asimov asked.
"I haven't talked to her yet about it," Buck replied.
Just then the door to the meeting room opened and Hawk and Wilma
entered.
"I'm not going to allow you to put Lela's life in danger, Buck. If
there's going to be any kind of bait, it's going to be me," Hawk said.
Buck turned and gazed at Hawk.
"Buck, Lela is still too weak to do this. If she had to run, she
wouldn't be able to. No, I'm going to be the bait and there's no
arguing about it," Hawk said, as he turned and walked out of the
meeting room.
Buck turned towards the Admiral. "We can't let him do this," Buck
said.
"Why not Buck? You were willing to put Lela's life on the line and
she's injured. Why shouldn't Hawk do it?" Wilma asked.
Buck stood there for a moment, with a confused look on his face.
"I'll have to go along with Hawk's idea of him being the bait, Buck.
He can run a lot faster plus he'll have his weapon," the Admiral
replied.
Buck turned to leave, but Wilma stopped him.
"Buck, why were you willing to put Lela in danger, but you're not
willing to put Hawk in danger?" Wilma asked softly.
Buck sighed and hung his head. "I figured Lela would be more to their
liking, her being like the others," Buck replied softly.
"Buck, it doesn't matter what kind of bird person they are. Those
creatures are now killing humans," Wilma replied.
"I know. It's just that..."
"You don't want to lose a friend?" Wilma asked softly.
Buck walked away. Wilma stood there while the Admiral walked up
behind her.
"He's afraid of losing someone again, isn't he?" Asimov asked.
"Yes sir," Wilma replied.
"Hawk is a very resourceful man." Asimov hesitated for a moment. "I
should say, bird person."
Wilma turned towards the Admiral and smiled. "Sir, Hawk's ship should
be about ready. We should start heading down to the planet," Wilma
said.
Asimov nodded. "Be careful," he replied.
Hawk returned to his quarters and was picking up the harness he had
made for Buck to use. A moment later a light knock at his door.
"Enter," Hawk replied, as he finished gathering his things.
Buck entered and slowly walked over and stood next to the portal.
"Hawk, I want to explain why I was going to use Lela as the bait. She
told me before that the Kaalans didn't start killing humans until
they thought all of her people were gone. Then when they found out
she was still alive, they wanted her. I figure if they want her that
bad, they'll come out of hiding to get her. You know I'd never let
anything harm her," Buck said.
"I know. But in her condition, she wouldn't have a chance if she had
to run even a short distance," Hawk replied.
"I know. I guess I wasn't really thinking," Buck said,as he turned to
look out the portal.
Hawk walked over and stood next to him. "You're still blaming yourself
for what happened to Koori, aren't you?" Hawk asked, as he looked out
the portal.
"Yes, if it wasn't for me taking her out of the caves that day.. she
would still be alive today," Buck replied.
"Buck, it wasn't entirely your fault, I'm just as much to blame as
you are, if not more. If I'd not attacked every ship that passed
close to Throm, or attacked every human outpost I found, Koori would
still be alive and we'd still be together on Throm," Hawk replied.
Buck glanced over at Hawk. "Hawk, humans murdered your whole village.
I would have done the same thing," Buck said.
"No, you wouldn't have. You would have gone to the authorities to
seek justice. I took justice into my own hands," Hawk replied,
turning to Buck.
Just then the door buzzed. Hawk walked over and placed his hand
against the control panel. The door opened and there stood Lela.
"Lela? What are you doing out of bed?" Hawk asked, helping her into
his quarters and sitting her gently down in a chair.
"I heard that Buck has a plan to lure out the Kaalans and it includes
me," Lela said.
"I did. But I changed my mind Lela, it's way to dangerous. Hawk is
going to be the bait," Buck replied, walking over to her.
"I should be the bait, it's me they want," Lela replied.
"No!" Hawk shouted.
"Why not?" Lela asked.
"Like Buck said, it's too dangerous. You couldn't run fast enough if
you had to." Hawk placed his hand on her shoulder. "And I'm not
willing to lose another one of my kind," Hawk replied.
"But Hawk, I..."
"I said NO! Lela," Hawk said loudly.
Lela started to stand, Buck went to her side and helped her up. "I'll
take you back to sick bay," Buck said.
Lela nodded. Buck slowly and carefully escorted Lela back to sick bay,
where Dr. Goodfellow was pacing the floor. The door opened with a
whoosh.
"There you are! I've been worried. Why did you leave sick bay without
an nurse to assist you?" Goodfellow asked, helping her back into bed.
"I had to speak to Hawk." Lela hung her head. "I'm sorry if I made
you worry," she said softly.
"My dear girl, you must stay in bed for all of your wounds to heal
properly. If you wanted to talk to Hawk, all you had to do was ask,"
Goodfellow said, as he pulled the blanket up over her.
Buck walked over to Lela's bedside. "Lela, I wanted to apologize. I
never should have thought about using you to lure the Kaalans out of
hiding," Buck said, looking down at the floor, shaking his head no.
"Buck, you have nothing to apologize for. You were using common sense,
that's all," Lela replied, placing her hand gently on Buck's hand.
Buck looked into Lela's eyes. He placed his other hand on top of hers.
"I swear, we will find them," Buck said.
Lela smiled. "I know you will. You and Hawk have the look of
determination in your eyes." Lela hesitated for a moment. "But please,
be careful, and make sure Hawk is well protected. He and I may be the
last of our kind," Lela said.
"I promise, they won't get near him," Buck replied, patting her hand.
Just then the ship's intercom crackled. "Captain Rogers, report to
hanger 4."
Buck smiled. "I guess it's time. We'll be in contact with the
Searcher at all times. I'll make sure Dr. Goodfellow is up-dated
regularly," Buck said, as he turned and walked out of the sick bay.
In the hanger, Hawk was holding Buck's harness across his arm.
"Is that Buck's harness?" Wilma asked, gazing at it.
"Yes, I also made you something. Nemna told me that you had to shift
a few times. So I made you a pad with a grip," Hawk replied, handing
the pad to Wilma.
"That wasn't necessary, Hawk." Wilma blushed. "But, thank you."
A moment later the hanger door opened and Buck entered.
"Are we ready to go?" Buck asked.
"Yes, here's your harness," Hawk replied, handing Buck the harness.
"Okay, let's go get those murderers," Buck said.
Wilma and Hawk stood there with shocked expressions on their face. It
was the first time they've ever heard Buck use the word murderers.
Buck made his way to one of the fighters.
Buck turned around and saw them standing there. "Well, are you coming
or not?" he asked.
Wilma nodded and walked over to her fighter, Hawk walked over to the
War Hawk. They climbed in and with in moments were propelled out of
the launch tube and out in to space.
"Buck, are you all right?" Wilma asked, with concern.
"I'm fine, why?" Buck replied.
"It's just that word you used. I never heard you say it before,"
Wilma replied.
"What word is that, Wilma?" Buck asked.
"Murderers," Wilma replied.
"Well, that's what they are. They murdered all Lela's people and now
they're murdering the human inhabitants," Buck replied.
The rest of the journey down to the planet was quiet. As the three
ships came over the ridge just to the west of the guardian's mountain.
They could see four of the guardians and the woman standing in a
circle. Laying in the center of the circle was Mathayis. Nemna, Ghost,
Saphira and Emerald were standing on their rear legs with their wings
fully extended and their heads lowered. Kneeling in front of Mathayis
was the woman.
Buck, Hawk and Wilma forced their throttles forward. They flew past
the gathering to a clearing close to where they found the woman.
"A New Begining"
21 posts
• Page 2 of 2 • 1, 2
Chapter 15
by ladyfreebird » Mon Jun 18, 2007 2:26 pm
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
Chapter 16
by ladyfreebird » Wed Jun 27, 2007 5:14 am
Chapter 16
They landed and quickly ran over to the guardians and the woman. Hawk
continued inside of the circle, while Buck and Wilma stopped on the
outer edge. Hawk knelt down next to the woman.
"What happened?" Hawk asked.
"I was gathering some fruit and herbs in that small clearing, when I
heard a soft and mournful growl. When I approached, Mathayis was
laying here as if he was basking in the sun enjoying the warmth. I
asked him if he was all right, he turned his head and asked me to
gather the others." The woman reached out and started to gently
stroke Mathayis's head. "When we returned, he was gone," she said,
with tears flowing down her cheek.
Wilma stood next to Nemna, tears swelling in her eyes. She placed her
hand gently on Nemna's neck. Nemna turned his head slightly to look
at Wilma.
With his head still lowered. "We have lost a brother, but he passed
in a place he loved," Nemna said, softly.
Wilma lowered her head and wept softly as she stroked Nemna's neck.
Hawk placed his hand gently on Mathayis's head and lowered his head.
Buck, who was standing between Ghost and Saphira turned and walked
away. Ghost and Saphira turned their attention to Buck, who was
starting to lift a large rock.
"What are you doing?" Ghost asked.
Buck looked over towards Ghost. "He deserves a burial," Buck replied,
as he carried the rock over and placed it next to Mathayis's body. He
then walked back over and started to retrieve another one.
Hawk stood and walked over to Buck, he reached down and picked up
another rock and carried it over to Mathayis's body and placed it
next to the one Buck had brought over. Wilma and the woman soon
started to assist Buck and Hawk. Time passed, soon it was evening.
The sun was setting and the guardians still encircled Mathayis's
grave. Their heads still lowered and their wings still full extended.
Buck, Hawk, Wilma and the woman sat between each of the guardians
through-out the night. The next morning, Buck, Hawk and Wilma woke to
see the guardians and the woman still gathered around the grave.
"How long are they going to mourn Mathayis?" Buck asked, in a soft
voice.
"As long as it takes," Hawk replied.
Just then all four guardians threw their heads back and
simultaneously let out an ground shaking roar. It was so deep and
strong the ground moved under Buck, Hawk, and Wilma's feet, causing
them to lose their balance. After they regained their footage, Buck
slowly walked over to the stone grave. He drew his weapon from its
holster, took aim at the stones that covered Mathayis.
"Buck? What are you doing?" Wilma asked, with a puzzled look on her
face.
"This will preserve his body, so everyone and everything on this
planet will remember what he and the others have done," Buck replied,
as he started to squeeze the trigger.
The weapon fired, turning a few of the stones to a bright red. Hawk
and Wilma drew their weapons as well and fired in to the stones.
"Let us help," Ghost said, as he and the others drew a deep breath.
All four guardians lowered their heads down to the rocks that formed
Mathayis's grave. They opened their mouths and discharged fire so hot
that with in seconds every stone was shining a brilliant red. The
extreme heat transformed the dull, gray rocks into a transparent
crystal, encasing Mathayis's body forever.
The guardians looked over at Buck. "Thank you, our brother," Ghost
said, softly.
Buck slowly nodded his head.
"We know Mathayis asked you to bring any Kaalans to us. We wish to
change that request. If you find any Kaalans, destroy them," Nemna
said.
"If that is what you want, so it shall be done," Hawk replied.
Buck looked up at the sky. "It's to early in the afternoon to hunt for
them. We'll start our search about sunset." Buck turned to Hawk. "Are
you sure you want to do this?" Buck asked.
"It's the only way," Hawk replied.
"Do what?" Ghost asked, looking at Buck.
"Hawk is going to be the bait to lure the Kaalans out of hiding,"
Buck replied.
"NO!" the woman shouted.
"It's the only way," Hawk said.
"No, there's another way." She hesitated for a moment. "I'll be the
bait," she said.
"NO! We will not lose our mother," Ghost shouted.
"But they want me..."
"I said, No," Ghost repeated.
Buck, Hawk and Wilma stood there confused.
"Did you call her your mother?" Wilma asked.
"Yes. This woman's ancestors have been caring for us dragons over
thousands of years. Ever since the first guardian dragon was born.
She carries with her the knowledge of her ancestors. She will pass it
on to her daughter and her daughter shall pass it on to hers. It
will continue until we, the guardians are no longer needed. When no
evil is left," Nemna replied, looking at Wilma.
"That might be some time. There's still a lot of evil out there,"
Buck replied.
"We know. But, one day it will end," Nemna replied.
Buck turned to the woman. "That is why you helped us, isn't it?" Buck
asked.
"Yes, I knew Hawk and yourself were the ones that could help the
guardians end the terror on this planet. I'm just sorry I didn't tell
you who I was. Please, forgive me?" the woman asked.
"There is nothing to forgive. You were protecting them and yourself.
You didn't know who we were or what our cause was. We don't even know
your name," Hawk said.
"My name is Gemka," Gemka replied, smiling.
"Gemka was not our adopted mother when we were born. As you can tell,
she's much to young. Her great, great grandmother was our adopted
mother. But in her is the knowledge of our kind. Maybe it will be
her great grand-daughter who will care for the next born," Ghost said.
"If you don't mind me asking. Why do you need a adopted mother when
your mother cares for you?" Wilma asked.
Saphira walked over to Wilma. "Our true mother usually dies about two
years after our birth. We are still very vulnerable at that age. Our
fire lungs have not developed yet. We can hunt on our own, but we
still need nurturing and ... love," Saphira replied.
"I believe every living thing needs that," Wilma said smiling.
"You must excuse us, we must feed now," Nemna said, as he spread his
wings. With one flap of his wings, he was air-born. The others
followed close behind.
"I'll go get us something to eat as well," Gemka said.
"May I help you?" Wilma asked.
As Wilma and Gemka searched for fruit. Wilma got a puzzled expression
on her face.
"What is wrong, Wilma?" Gemka asked.
"I'm a little confused," Wilma replied as she slowly put the fruit on
the ground.
"About what are you confused about?" Gemka asked, walking over to
Wilma.
"The guardians told Hawk and Buck that after a couple hundred years,
and after mating the males die. Nemna and Ghost are young, but
Mathayis was very old. How did he survive?" Wilma asked.
"My mother told me that Mathayis was a special guardian. He was very
old and wise. She told me that Mathayis never mated," Gemka replied.
"That must be the key then. Since he never mated, he lived longer.
Did you know how old he was?" Wilma asked.
"My mother's mother told her that Mathayis was here when she was born.
And that he was very old then," Gemka replied.
"Gemka, is your mother still living?" Wilma asked.
Gemka turned and smiled. "Yes, she lives in a small village not far
from the city," Gemka replied.
"Is that the village where Lela came from?" Wilma asked.
"No. The small village where she lives now is up in the mountains on
the other island," Gemka replied.
"The island of Saphira and Emerald?" Wilma asked.
"Yes," Gemka answered.
"Gemka, do you think your mother knows anything about the Kaalans?"
Wilma asked, as she picked up the fruit from the ground.
"She knows more about them than I do," Gemka replied.
"Do you think she'd help us?" Wilma asked.
Gemka smiled and nodded. "I'm sure she would."
They carried the fruit they had gathered back to Hawk and Buck. Wilma
told them about Gemka's mother and that she might help them.
"You and Buck stay here. I'll take Gemka in my fighter and we'll go
talk to her mother," Hawk said.
"All right Hawk. But don't be gone too long. The sun will set in
about three hours," Buck replied.
"We'll be back way before that time." Hawk turned to Gemka. "Are you
ready Gemka?" Hawk asked.
Gemka nodded. Hawk and Gemka walked quickly over to the War Hawk. He
helped her in then he climbed in, shut the hatch and started the
engines. With in moments the War Hawk was gone.
They landed and quickly ran over to the guardians and the woman. Hawk
continued inside of the circle, while Buck and Wilma stopped on the
outer edge. Hawk knelt down next to the woman.
"What happened?" Hawk asked.
"I was gathering some fruit and herbs in that small clearing, when I
heard a soft and mournful growl. When I approached, Mathayis was
laying here as if he was basking in the sun enjoying the warmth. I
asked him if he was all right, he turned his head and asked me to
gather the others." The woman reached out and started to gently
stroke Mathayis's head. "When we returned, he was gone," she said,
with tears flowing down her cheek.
Wilma stood next to Nemna, tears swelling in her eyes. She placed her
hand gently on Nemna's neck. Nemna turned his head slightly to look
at Wilma.
With his head still lowered. "We have lost a brother, but he passed
in a place he loved," Nemna said, softly.
Wilma lowered her head and wept softly as she stroked Nemna's neck.
Hawk placed his hand gently on Mathayis's head and lowered his head.
Buck, who was standing between Ghost and Saphira turned and walked
away. Ghost and Saphira turned their attention to Buck, who was
starting to lift a large rock.
"What are you doing?" Ghost asked.
Buck looked over towards Ghost. "He deserves a burial," Buck replied,
as he carried the rock over and placed it next to Mathayis's body. He
then walked back over and started to retrieve another one.
Hawk stood and walked over to Buck, he reached down and picked up
another rock and carried it over to Mathayis's body and placed it
next to the one Buck had brought over. Wilma and the woman soon
started to assist Buck and Hawk. Time passed, soon it was evening.
The sun was setting and the guardians still encircled Mathayis's
grave. Their heads still lowered and their wings still full extended.
Buck, Hawk, Wilma and the woman sat between each of the guardians
through-out the night. The next morning, Buck, Hawk and Wilma woke to
see the guardians and the woman still gathered around the grave.
"How long are they going to mourn Mathayis?" Buck asked, in a soft
voice.
"As long as it takes," Hawk replied.
Just then all four guardians threw their heads back and
simultaneously let out an ground shaking roar. It was so deep and
strong the ground moved under Buck, Hawk, and Wilma's feet, causing
them to lose their balance. After they regained their footage, Buck
slowly walked over to the stone grave. He drew his weapon from its
holster, took aim at the stones that covered Mathayis.
"Buck? What are you doing?" Wilma asked, with a puzzled look on her
face.
"This will preserve his body, so everyone and everything on this
planet will remember what he and the others have done," Buck replied,
as he started to squeeze the trigger.
The weapon fired, turning a few of the stones to a bright red. Hawk
and Wilma drew their weapons as well and fired in to the stones.
"Let us help," Ghost said, as he and the others drew a deep breath.
All four guardians lowered their heads down to the rocks that formed
Mathayis's grave. They opened their mouths and discharged fire so hot
that with in seconds every stone was shining a brilliant red. The
extreme heat transformed the dull, gray rocks into a transparent
crystal, encasing Mathayis's body forever.
The guardians looked over at Buck. "Thank you, our brother," Ghost
said, softly.
Buck slowly nodded his head.
"We know Mathayis asked you to bring any Kaalans to us. We wish to
change that request. If you find any Kaalans, destroy them," Nemna
said.
"If that is what you want, so it shall be done," Hawk replied.
Buck looked up at the sky. "It's to early in the afternoon to hunt for
them. We'll start our search about sunset." Buck turned to Hawk. "Are
you sure you want to do this?" Buck asked.
"It's the only way," Hawk replied.
"Do what?" Ghost asked, looking at Buck.
"Hawk is going to be the bait to lure the Kaalans out of hiding,"
Buck replied.
"NO!" the woman shouted.
"It's the only way," Hawk said.
"No, there's another way." She hesitated for a moment. "I'll be the
bait," she said.
"NO! We will not lose our mother," Ghost shouted.
"But they want me..."
"I said, No," Ghost repeated.
Buck, Hawk and Wilma stood there confused.
"Did you call her your mother?" Wilma asked.
"Yes. This woman's ancestors have been caring for us dragons over
thousands of years. Ever since the first guardian dragon was born.
She carries with her the knowledge of her ancestors. She will pass it
on to her daughter and her daughter shall pass it on to hers. It
will continue until we, the guardians are no longer needed. When no
evil is left," Nemna replied, looking at Wilma.
"That might be some time. There's still a lot of evil out there,"
Buck replied.
"We know. But, one day it will end," Nemna replied.
Buck turned to the woman. "That is why you helped us, isn't it?" Buck
asked.
"Yes, I knew Hawk and yourself were the ones that could help the
guardians end the terror on this planet. I'm just sorry I didn't tell
you who I was. Please, forgive me?" the woman asked.
"There is nothing to forgive. You were protecting them and yourself.
You didn't know who we were or what our cause was. We don't even know
your name," Hawk said.
"My name is Gemka," Gemka replied, smiling.
"Gemka was not our adopted mother when we were born. As you can tell,
she's much to young. Her great, great grandmother was our adopted
mother. But in her is the knowledge of our kind. Maybe it will be
her great grand-daughter who will care for the next born," Ghost said.
"If you don't mind me asking. Why do you need a adopted mother when
your mother cares for you?" Wilma asked.
Saphira walked over to Wilma. "Our true mother usually dies about two
years after our birth. We are still very vulnerable at that age. Our
fire lungs have not developed yet. We can hunt on our own, but we
still need nurturing and ... love," Saphira replied.
"I believe every living thing needs that," Wilma said smiling.
"You must excuse us, we must feed now," Nemna said, as he spread his
wings. With one flap of his wings, he was air-born. The others
followed close behind.
"I'll go get us something to eat as well," Gemka said.
"May I help you?" Wilma asked.
As Wilma and Gemka searched for fruit. Wilma got a puzzled expression
on her face.
"What is wrong, Wilma?" Gemka asked.
"I'm a little confused," Wilma replied as she slowly put the fruit on
the ground.
"About what are you confused about?" Gemka asked, walking over to
Wilma.
"The guardians told Hawk and Buck that after a couple hundred years,
and after mating the males die. Nemna and Ghost are young, but
Mathayis was very old. How did he survive?" Wilma asked.
"My mother told me that Mathayis was a special guardian. He was very
old and wise. She told me that Mathayis never mated," Gemka replied.
"That must be the key then. Since he never mated, he lived longer.
Did you know how old he was?" Wilma asked.
"My mother's mother told her that Mathayis was here when she was born.
And that he was very old then," Gemka replied.
"Gemka, is your mother still living?" Wilma asked.
Gemka turned and smiled. "Yes, she lives in a small village not far
from the city," Gemka replied.
"Is that the village where Lela came from?" Wilma asked.
"No. The small village where she lives now is up in the mountains on
the other island," Gemka replied.
"The island of Saphira and Emerald?" Wilma asked.
"Yes," Gemka answered.
"Gemka, do you think your mother knows anything about the Kaalans?"
Wilma asked, as she picked up the fruit from the ground.
"She knows more about them than I do," Gemka replied.
"Do you think she'd help us?" Wilma asked.
Gemka smiled and nodded. "I'm sure she would."
They carried the fruit they had gathered back to Hawk and Buck. Wilma
told them about Gemka's mother and that she might help them.
"You and Buck stay here. I'll take Gemka in my fighter and we'll go
talk to her mother," Hawk said.
"All right Hawk. But don't be gone too long. The sun will set in
about three hours," Buck replied.
"We'll be back way before that time." Hawk turned to Gemka. "Are you
ready Gemka?" Hawk asked.
Gemka nodded. Hawk and Gemka walked quickly over to the War Hawk. He
helped her in then he climbed in, shut the hatch and started the
engines. With in moments the War Hawk was gone.
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
Chapter 17
by ladyfreebird » Sat Jul 21, 2007 12:04 am
Chapter 17
A short time later, Ghost, Nemna, Saphira and Emerald appeared. They
glided past Buck and Wilma, circled then landed a short distance away.
Buck and Wilma walked over to them.
"Where is Hawk and Gemka?" Nemna asked, glancing around.
"Hawk took Gemka to see her mother. She says that her mother would
have more information about the Kaalans," Wilma replied.
Nemna looked up towards the sky. "I hope they return soon. It'll be
sunset in about an hour," Nemna said.
Saphira glanced down at Wilma. "You and your friends are determined to
find the Kaalans, aren't you?" Saphira asked.
"Yes, we will not leave this planet until we have either captured or
disposed of all of them. They're a threat to all life forms on this
planet," Wilma replied.
Saphira lowered her head and placed it gently on Wilma's arm. Wilma
lowered her head and rested it briefly on Saphira's head.
On the island, Hawk and Gemka sat and listened while Gemka's mother
told them everything she knew about the Kaalans.
"Thank you for all your help, Jadia," Hawk said.
"Tell me, is Lela going to be all right?" Jadia asked with a concerned
voice.
Hawk smiled and gently nodded. "She's going to be fine."
"Hawk, we should leave and get back to the others, it's almost time.
And they'll be waiting," Gemka said.
Hawk turned to face Gemka. "You're right, Gemka," Hawk turned his
attention back to Jadia. "Thank you again for all your help," Hawk
said, as he removed his glove to shake Jadia's hand.
"I'm sorry I didn't have more information for you," Jadia said,
shaking Hawk's hand.
"It was more than enough," Hawk replied.
Gemka walked over and embraced her mother.
"Be careful, my daughter," Jadia whispered, softly.
"I will, Mother," Gemka replied, softly.
Jadia glanced over at Hawk. "Hawk, please be careful. They are very
knowledgeable of surprise attacks," Jadia said, warning Hawk.
Hawk nodded. "So am I," he replied with a smile.
Gemka broke her embrace from her mother and backed away. "We have to
go, mother," Gemka said.
Jadia followed Gemka and Hawk out the door and watched as they climbed
into the War Hawk. Hawk started the engines.
"You could stay here with your mother," Hawk said, glancing over his
shoulder at Gemka.
Gemka sighed. "No, I can't," she replied, her eyes swelling with
tears. Gemka glanced out the window at her mother. "She is training
my daughter to carry on in the ancestors way. I can not interfere,"
Gemka said, with tears on her face.
Hawk glanced out the window at Gemka's mother. A fragile, old woman
with gray hair and deep blue eyes that sparkled in the sunlight. He
then glanced back at Gemka. Her facial features were the same as her
mother's. Except, her eyes were an emerald green.
"What color are your daughter's eyes?" Hawk asked.
Gemka wiped the tears from her face and cheeks. "Her eyes are deep
blue, like my mother's. Why do you ask?" she asked.
Hawk glanced back out the window and saw Jadia waving. He waved back
and the War Hawk left the ground.
In flight, Hawk glanced back at Gemka. "Do you know what color your
ancestor's eyes were?" Hawk asked, as he guided his ship over the
ocean.
"My mother told me that all the women in my family and my ancestors
had either deep blue or emerald green eyes," Gemka replied.
"The color of the female guardians," Hawk thought to himself.
Back on the island, Buck and Wilma searched the skies for Hawk's ship.
"Where are they?" Wilma asked.
"I don't know. If they're not back within the next fifteen to twenty
minutes, we should go ahead and start searching for the Kaalans," Buck
said.
Wilma and Buck gazed at each other.
"We can still ride on the guardian's back and search. But, our chances
of finding them has dropped by 1/3. They could appear anywhere," Buck
said.
"Is that why you were going to use Hawk as bait, to bring them
directly to you?" Saphira asked.
"Yes," Buck replied, looking over at Saphira.
"I can be the bait," Saphira said.
Buck and Wilma turned their attention to Saphira.
"What did you say?" Buck asked.
"I said, I can be the bait. What creature alive would turn down a nice
large dragon dinner," Saphira said.
"No, Saphira. We can't allow you to put yourself in danger like that.
We will wait for Hawk," Wilma said.
"But if we wait much longer, it'll be too late. We must do it now,"
Saphira said.
Buck and Wilma glanced at one another.
"We'll wait another ten minutes. If they're not back by then, we'll go
ahead and have Saphira be the bait," Buck said.
"But Buck!" Wilma shouted.
"We can't wait, Wilma. If we wait too long, it'll be dark and we won't
be able to see them, which would make it more dangerous," Buck replied.
"Don't worry, Wilma. I'll be fine," Saphira said.
Ghost slowly walked over to Saphira. "Please, be careful," Ghost said,
gently rubbing his head and neck affectionately against Saphira's neck.
Saphira returned the affection by gently rubbing her head and neck
against Ghost's neck. "I will, don't worry," she said softly.
Wilma walked over to Nemna. "I'm frightened for her Nemna," Wilma said.
"She'll be all right. I'm not going to let anything happen to either
one of them, or you," Nemna replied, as he lowered his body to the
ground for Wilma.
Wilma smiled, placed her left foot on to Nemna's front leg and swung
her other leg over.
Buck, watching how Wilma mounted Nemna walked over to Emerald. "I'm
Buck Rogers, I guess I'm your rider," Buck said.
Emerald looked at Buck. "I believe you are. I see you also have a
harness. Are you inexperienced at flying?" Emerald asked.
"Flying fighters, yes. Riding on dragons, no," Buck replied.
"Well, Buck Rogers. This will be the first for us both. Things will be
a little different. In your craft, you are protected by the metal that
surrounds you. On a dragon, I'm the one that protects you. In flight,
you must lean with me, not against me. If you lean too far, you'll fall
to your death. If you don't lean far enough, we both could die. Just
sit straight and hang on to the harness. After a few minutes of diving
and soaring, you'll get the feel of it. Oh, one more thing, don't
kick me. I'm not a horse," Emerald said, as she lowered her body to
the ground.
Just as Buck was placing his left foot on Emerald's front leg. "There's
Hawk!" Wilma shouted, pointing towards the mountains.
"What took him so long?" Buck asked, as he finished mounting Emerald.
Hawk landed his fighter on the ridge behind them. He quickly exited the
ship and ran over to the others.
"Where's Gemka?" Ghost asked.
"I took her back to her mother's. It'll be a lot safer for her there,"
Hawk replied.
"Where are you going?" Hawk asked, looking up and Buck and Wilma.
"We're going to find the Kaalans. Saphira is going to be the bait,"
Buck said.
"No, she's not!" Hawk shouted.
"Hawk, we didn't know when you'd be back. It's getting late and if we
don't leave now, we won't find the Kaalans," Buck said.
"Jadia told me that the Kaalans come out at night. After the moons
are full and remain out until just before sunrise. If we go out now,
we'll never find them," Hawk said.
"At night? How are we going to find them at night?" Wilma asked, as
she climbed down off Nemna.
Hawk looked over at the dragons. "They'll find them for us. Their
vision is better at night than in the day. Jadia also told me that the
Kaalans eyes glow more at night, making them easier to see," Hawk
replied.
"That's right. Didn't Gemka say that she saw their eyes as they came
towards her house that night?" Buck asked.
"Yes, she did. So I think it would be best if we wait until the moons
are full. We won't be able to see too well, but the guardians will.
I'll use a basic torch down by the water's edge. If I used one of ours
they'd know it wasn't one of the villagers." Hawk turned towards
Saphira. "You are needed here. I'll be the bait," Hawk said.
A short time later, Ghost, Nemna, Saphira and Emerald appeared. They
glided past Buck and Wilma, circled then landed a short distance away.
Buck and Wilma walked over to them.
"Where is Hawk and Gemka?" Nemna asked, glancing around.
"Hawk took Gemka to see her mother. She says that her mother would
have more information about the Kaalans," Wilma replied.
Nemna looked up towards the sky. "I hope they return soon. It'll be
sunset in about an hour," Nemna said.
Saphira glanced down at Wilma. "You and your friends are determined to
find the Kaalans, aren't you?" Saphira asked.
"Yes, we will not leave this planet until we have either captured or
disposed of all of them. They're a threat to all life forms on this
planet," Wilma replied.
Saphira lowered her head and placed it gently on Wilma's arm. Wilma
lowered her head and rested it briefly on Saphira's head.
On the island, Hawk and Gemka sat and listened while Gemka's mother
told them everything she knew about the Kaalans.
"Thank you for all your help, Jadia," Hawk said.
"Tell me, is Lela going to be all right?" Jadia asked with a concerned
voice.
Hawk smiled and gently nodded. "She's going to be fine."
"Hawk, we should leave and get back to the others, it's almost time.
And they'll be waiting," Gemka said.
Hawk turned to face Gemka. "You're right, Gemka," Hawk turned his
attention back to Jadia. "Thank you again for all your help," Hawk
said, as he removed his glove to shake Jadia's hand.
"I'm sorry I didn't have more information for you," Jadia said,
shaking Hawk's hand.
"It was more than enough," Hawk replied.
Gemka walked over and embraced her mother.
"Be careful, my daughter," Jadia whispered, softly.
"I will, Mother," Gemka replied, softly.
Jadia glanced over at Hawk. "Hawk, please be careful. They are very
knowledgeable of surprise attacks," Jadia said, warning Hawk.
Hawk nodded. "So am I," he replied with a smile.
Gemka broke her embrace from her mother and backed away. "We have to
go, mother," Gemka said.
Jadia followed Gemka and Hawk out the door and watched as they climbed
into the War Hawk. Hawk started the engines.
"You could stay here with your mother," Hawk said, glancing over his
shoulder at Gemka.
Gemka sighed. "No, I can't," she replied, her eyes swelling with
tears. Gemka glanced out the window at her mother. "She is training
my daughter to carry on in the ancestors way. I can not interfere,"
Gemka said, with tears on her face.
Hawk glanced out the window at Gemka's mother. A fragile, old woman
with gray hair and deep blue eyes that sparkled in the sunlight. He
then glanced back at Gemka. Her facial features were the same as her
mother's. Except, her eyes were an emerald green.
"What color are your daughter's eyes?" Hawk asked.
Gemka wiped the tears from her face and cheeks. "Her eyes are deep
blue, like my mother's. Why do you ask?" she asked.
Hawk glanced back out the window and saw Jadia waving. He waved back
and the War Hawk left the ground.
In flight, Hawk glanced back at Gemka. "Do you know what color your
ancestor's eyes were?" Hawk asked, as he guided his ship over the
ocean.
"My mother told me that all the women in my family and my ancestors
had either deep blue or emerald green eyes," Gemka replied.
"The color of the female guardians," Hawk thought to himself.
Back on the island, Buck and Wilma searched the skies for Hawk's ship.
"Where are they?" Wilma asked.
"I don't know. If they're not back within the next fifteen to twenty
minutes, we should go ahead and start searching for the Kaalans," Buck
said.
Wilma and Buck gazed at each other.
"We can still ride on the guardian's back and search. But, our chances
of finding them has dropped by 1/3. They could appear anywhere," Buck
said.
"Is that why you were going to use Hawk as bait, to bring them
directly to you?" Saphira asked.
"Yes," Buck replied, looking over at Saphira.
"I can be the bait," Saphira said.
Buck and Wilma turned their attention to Saphira.
"What did you say?" Buck asked.
"I said, I can be the bait. What creature alive would turn down a nice
large dragon dinner," Saphira said.
"No, Saphira. We can't allow you to put yourself in danger like that.
We will wait for Hawk," Wilma said.
"But if we wait much longer, it'll be too late. We must do it now,"
Saphira said.
Buck and Wilma glanced at one another.
"We'll wait another ten minutes. If they're not back by then, we'll go
ahead and have Saphira be the bait," Buck said.
"But Buck!" Wilma shouted.
"We can't wait, Wilma. If we wait too long, it'll be dark and we won't
be able to see them, which would make it more dangerous," Buck replied.
"Don't worry, Wilma. I'll be fine," Saphira said.
Ghost slowly walked over to Saphira. "Please, be careful," Ghost said,
gently rubbing his head and neck affectionately against Saphira's neck.
Saphira returned the affection by gently rubbing her head and neck
against Ghost's neck. "I will, don't worry," she said softly.
Wilma walked over to Nemna. "I'm frightened for her Nemna," Wilma said.
"She'll be all right. I'm not going to let anything happen to either
one of them, or you," Nemna replied, as he lowered his body to the
ground for Wilma.
Wilma smiled, placed her left foot on to Nemna's front leg and swung
her other leg over.
Buck, watching how Wilma mounted Nemna walked over to Emerald. "I'm
Buck Rogers, I guess I'm your rider," Buck said.
Emerald looked at Buck. "I believe you are. I see you also have a
harness. Are you inexperienced at flying?" Emerald asked.
"Flying fighters, yes. Riding on dragons, no," Buck replied.
"Well, Buck Rogers. This will be the first for us both. Things will be
a little different. In your craft, you are protected by the metal that
surrounds you. On a dragon, I'm the one that protects you. In flight,
you must lean with me, not against me. If you lean too far, you'll fall
to your death. If you don't lean far enough, we both could die. Just
sit straight and hang on to the harness. After a few minutes of diving
and soaring, you'll get the feel of it. Oh, one more thing, don't
kick me. I'm not a horse," Emerald said, as she lowered her body to
the ground.
Just as Buck was placing his left foot on Emerald's front leg. "There's
Hawk!" Wilma shouted, pointing towards the mountains.
"What took him so long?" Buck asked, as he finished mounting Emerald.
Hawk landed his fighter on the ridge behind them. He quickly exited the
ship and ran over to the others.
"Where's Gemka?" Ghost asked.
"I took her back to her mother's. It'll be a lot safer for her there,"
Hawk replied.
"Where are you going?" Hawk asked, looking up and Buck and Wilma.
"We're going to find the Kaalans. Saphira is going to be the bait,"
Buck said.
"No, she's not!" Hawk shouted.
"Hawk, we didn't know when you'd be back. It's getting late and if we
don't leave now, we won't find the Kaalans," Buck said.
"Jadia told me that the Kaalans come out at night. After the moons
are full and remain out until just before sunrise. If we go out now,
we'll never find them," Hawk said.
"At night? How are we going to find them at night?" Wilma asked, as
she climbed down off Nemna.
Hawk looked over at the dragons. "They'll find them for us. Their
vision is better at night than in the day. Jadia also told me that the
Kaalans eyes glow more at night, making them easier to see," Hawk
replied.
"That's right. Didn't Gemka say that she saw their eyes as they came
towards her house that night?" Buck asked.
"Yes, she did. So I think it would be best if we wait until the moons
are full. We won't be able to see too well, but the guardians will.
I'll use a basic torch down by the water's edge. If I used one of ours
they'd know it wasn't one of the villagers." Hawk turned towards
Saphira. "You are needed here. I'll be the bait," Hawk said.
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
Chapter 18
by ladyfreebird » Tue Jul 24, 2007 5:12 pm
Chapter 18
Buck, Hawk, Wilma and the guardians began going over the plan to lure
the Kaalans out of hiding.
"Hawk, you said you wanted to use just an regular torch. If you use
that we won't really be able to see you that well." Buck became silent
for a moment. "We need more riders. With you on the ground, that
leaves only Wilma and myself searching," Buck said.
"What about bringing another couple of pilots down from the Searcher?"
Wilma asked.
"There's not enough time. They wouldn't be able to get down here in
time," Buck replied.
"There has to be a way," Wilma said.
Just then, Hawk heard a strange but familiar sound. "Listen!" Hawk
said, turning his attention to the sky.
Coming over the ridge were two fighters. They circled the group, then
landed close by the other fighters. Hawk, Buck and Wilma walked
quickly over to the fighters. The engines shut down and the hatch
opened. Saphira, Emerald, Ghost and Nemna walked slowly behind Hawk,
Buck and Wilma.
"Sorry we're late Capt. Rogers," Murphy said, as he and the other
pilot climbed out of their fighters. "The Admiral gave us a briefing
about what was going on. He sent us down to assist you in any way
needed," Anderson said.
Hawk, Buck and Wilma started smiling. "It looks like we have two
extra sets of eyes," Buck said.
Buck smiled then glanced over at Hawk. "Okay, Hawk, what's your plan?"
Buck asked.
Buck, Wilma, Murphy and the others gathered around in a circle.
"I'll stay close to the waters edge, but not too close. You and the
guardians will be flying around close by. But, I don't want you too
close where they might see or hear you. I'll try to draw them as far
away from the water as I can," Hawk replied.
"Hawk, what happens if one of the planets inhabitants wonders down to
the water's edge?" Wilma asked.
"I doubt that will happen. They're too frightened to come out at
night, let alone get too close to the water. We don't have to worry
about that happening," Hawk replied.
"Okay, sounds like we have a plan. Murphy, Johnson, you will ride on
Saphira and Emerald. Wilma, you'll ride on Nemna and I'll ride on
Ghost," Buck said.
Murphy and Johnson nodded and glanced over at the guardians. Saphira
and Emerald gently nodded to acknowledge them.
"Are these humans pilots like yourself?" Emerald asked.
"Yes," Hawk replied.
"Then maybe they should take a flight with us to see how it will feel,"
Saphira said.
"That's a good idea." Hawk turned to the other pilots. "Murphy,
Johnson, listen and do everything the guardians say," Hawk said.
Murphy and Johnson walked over and stood next to the guardians.
Emerald and Saphira started to explain the maneuvers they would make
and how to lean when they changed directions. Emerald and Saphira
both laid down and instructed Johnson and Murphy on the procedure of
mounting. Johnson and Murphy followed the instructions the guardians
gave them. Emerald and Saphira both stood and walked over to the edge.
The pilots glanced over the head of their ride and saw nothing but open
air. They looked at one another with an unsure glance then turned their
heads and looked over at Hawk and Buck.
"Have no fear," Emerald said, softly to Johnson.
"You are our riders, but we are the protectors. We will not allow any
harm to come to you," Saphira said.
A moment later Saphira and Emerald spread their wings and dove off
the cliff. The pilots at first were not sure on how to hold on, but they
soon realized all they had to do was relax and shift when the time
came.
"Are you all right?" Saphira asked.
"I'm fine. This is amazing," Murphy replied.
All of a sudden Saphira changed direction without warming. At first
Murphy was caught off guard but soon adjusted to the change in the
proper manner.
"You did very well. I'm sorry I changed like that with no warning. I
wanted to make sure you'd know how to adjust," Saphira said.
"I understand. You wanted to make sure I'll be able to make the shift
with out warning," Murphy replied.
Johnson and Emerald had gone through the same maneuvers.
Only Emerald wanted to make sure her rider could stay on while in
a dive. At first she flew level, then all of a sudden she dove straight
down. She stayed in the dive for about five hundred feet then leveled
out again.
"Whoa!!" Johnson shouted.
"Do you have fear?" Emerald asked.
"No, you just caught me off guard, that's all," Johnson replied.
"You must be able to handle yourself while we are in flight. I will be
searching also and I might not be able to give you warning if I have to
change directions or go into a dive all of a sudden," Emerald said.
"I understand. I'm sorry I failed you," Johnson said.
"You did not fail me. But if we are to act as one, we must act
together. A life will depend on us," Emerald said.
Johnson reached down and gently ran his hand along Emerald's neck.
Without warning once again Emerald went into another dive. Only this
time Johnson didn't falter. He laid down along her neck. She broke
her dive and leveled out once again.
"You did a good job. You relaxed and went with my dive," she said.
"Can you tell me what we will be hunting for?" Johnson asked.
"We will be protecting Hawk and searching for the Kaalans," Emerald
replied.
"Do you know what the Kaalans look like?" Johnson asked.
"No. We know that their eyes glow an amber green at night and they
can inhabit any form they devour. They are murderous killers. They've
murdered every one of the bird people that lived peacefully on this
planet. Now they have turned to killing the humans. They must be
stopped," Emerald replied.
"It is time for us to return to the others. It's getting late and
it's almost time," Saphira said.
As they joined up, Emerald and Saphira gently nodded to one another.
"It is time to return," Saphira said.
They flew back to the ledge, Emerald landed first, followed by Saphira.
Johnson and Murphy dismounted and walked over towards Buck and Wilma.
"How was it?" Buck asked.
"They are truly fine riders. They will be good as our riders,"
Emerald replied.
Saphira glanced around and didn't see Hawk and Ghost. "Where are our
brothers?" Saphira asked.
"Ghost took Hawk to just the other side of the ridge. He dropped him
off there, then Hawk will start his way to the lake from there. We are
to wait for thirty minutes then start our patrol. He wants time to
get there and get things ready," Wilma replied.
"That is too dangerous. He should have waited for us to return.
Anything can happen during that time," Emerald said.
"That's what I told him. But he's determined to get everyone of the
Kaalans tonight. He does have his weapon though, so he should be safe
enough," Wilma said.
"You don't understand! Kaalans hunt in what you humans call packs.
They never hunt alone. Hawk won't have a chance against a pack of
them, not alone!" Emerald said, loudly.
"In packs?" Buck asked, with concern in his voice.
"Yes, one will be a decoy while the others circle their pray. While
the pray in focused on the decoy the others will attacks for all
sides. The Kaalans will use a child or small animal form to lure in
their pray, then when the pray is fixed on the lure, they attack with
all their might. Tearing and shredding their pray to pieces,"
Saphira replied.
"We're not waiting thirty minutes we're going NOW!" Buck said as he
ran towards Ghost.
Ghost laid down and allowed Buck to mount with in moments. Wilma,
Johnson and Murphy did the same with Saphira, Nemna and Emerald. With
in moments, all were air-borne and heading towards the area where
Ghost had dropped off Hawk just a short time before.
Hawk was slowly walking towards the pond, where earlier Buck said he
saw the outline of the shadow. He started to place small dim torches
around as he got closer to the water. He had one more to place when
something caught his eye. In front of him was a shadow, not too close
to the water's edge, but close enough to be in danger.
"You must leave," he shouted.
The person didn't move or turn their head towards him.
Hawk ran quickly towards them. "You must get away from the water!" he
shouted.
The person finally turned towards Hawk. It was a small child. Hawk
started to slow his pace as he approached the child, looking around
as he got closer. He was about to reach the child when a lime green
light flashed in front of him. The child fell to the ground. He
turned to see Buck and the rest walking quickly towards him.
"Why did you do that? You killed this child!" Hawk yelled.
"Hawk, it was a set up. She was the bait and you're the prey. She was
placed here to attract you. I bet right now the others are gathering
close by," Buck explained.
"Bait? What are you talking about?" Hawk asked, glancing down at the
child.
"Lets leave this area. We need to talk some place where they can not
hear or see us," Buck said.
As they were about to leave, Hawk glanced over at the child lying on
the ground not far from them. "Look," Hawk said, pointing towards
the body.
They turned their heads to see the body starting to turn a amber
green mixed with white and orange lights. With in a few moments the
girl's body was gone. They slowly walked back over to the body. There,
lying in the same area of the little girl's body, were the remains of
an reptilian creature.
Buck, Hawk, Wilma and the guardians began going over the plan to lure
the Kaalans out of hiding.
"Hawk, you said you wanted to use just an regular torch. If you use
that we won't really be able to see you that well." Buck became silent
for a moment. "We need more riders. With you on the ground, that
leaves only Wilma and myself searching," Buck said.
"What about bringing another couple of pilots down from the Searcher?"
Wilma asked.
"There's not enough time. They wouldn't be able to get down here in
time," Buck replied.
"There has to be a way," Wilma said.
Just then, Hawk heard a strange but familiar sound. "Listen!" Hawk
said, turning his attention to the sky.
Coming over the ridge were two fighters. They circled the group, then
landed close by the other fighters. Hawk, Buck and Wilma walked
quickly over to the fighters. The engines shut down and the hatch
opened. Saphira, Emerald, Ghost and Nemna walked slowly behind Hawk,
Buck and Wilma.
"Sorry we're late Capt. Rogers," Murphy said, as he and the other
pilot climbed out of their fighters. "The Admiral gave us a briefing
about what was going on. He sent us down to assist you in any way
needed," Anderson said.
Hawk, Buck and Wilma started smiling. "It looks like we have two
extra sets of eyes," Buck said.
Buck smiled then glanced over at Hawk. "Okay, Hawk, what's your plan?"
Buck asked.
Buck, Wilma, Murphy and the others gathered around in a circle.
"I'll stay close to the waters edge, but not too close. You and the
guardians will be flying around close by. But, I don't want you too
close where they might see or hear you. I'll try to draw them as far
away from the water as I can," Hawk replied.
"Hawk, what happens if one of the planets inhabitants wonders down to
the water's edge?" Wilma asked.
"I doubt that will happen. They're too frightened to come out at
night, let alone get too close to the water. We don't have to worry
about that happening," Hawk replied.
"Okay, sounds like we have a plan. Murphy, Johnson, you will ride on
Saphira and Emerald. Wilma, you'll ride on Nemna and I'll ride on
Ghost," Buck said.
Murphy and Johnson nodded and glanced over at the guardians. Saphira
and Emerald gently nodded to acknowledge them.
"Are these humans pilots like yourself?" Emerald asked.
"Yes," Hawk replied.
"Then maybe they should take a flight with us to see how it will feel,"
Saphira said.
"That's a good idea." Hawk turned to the other pilots. "Murphy,
Johnson, listen and do everything the guardians say," Hawk said.
Murphy and Johnson walked over and stood next to the guardians.
Emerald and Saphira started to explain the maneuvers they would make
and how to lean when they changed directions. Emerald and Saphira
both laid down and instructed Johnson and Murphy on the procedure of
mounting. Johnson and Murphy followed the instructions the guardians
gave them. Emerald and Saphira both stood and walked over to the edge.
The pilots glanced over the head of their ride and saw nothing but open
air. They looked at one another with an unsure glance then turned their
heads and looked over at Hawk and Buck.
"Have no fear," Emerald said, softly to Johnson.
"You are our riders, but we are the protectors. We will not allow any
harm to come to you," Saphira said.
A moment later Saphira and Emerald spread their wings and dove off
the cliff. The pilots at first were not sure on how to hold on, but they
soon realized all they had to do was relax and shift when the time
came.
"Are you all right?" Saphira asked.
"I'm fine. This is amazing," Murphy replied.
All of a sudden Saphira changed direction without warming. At first
Murphy was caught off guard but soon adjusted to the change in the
proper manner.
"You did very well. I'm sorry I changed like that with no warning. I
wanted to make sure you'd know how to adjust," Saphira said.
"I understand. You wanted to make sure I'll be able to make the shift
with out warning," Murphy replied.
Johnson and Emerald had gone through the same maneuvers.
Only Emerald wanted to make sure her rider could stay on while in
a dive. At first she flew level, then all of a sudden she dove straight
down. She stayed in the dive for about five hundred feet then leveled
out again.
"Whoa!!" Johnson shouted.
"Do you have fear?" Emerald asked.
"No, you just caught me off guard, that's all," Johnson replied.
"You must be able to handle yourself while we are in flight. I will be
searching also and I might not be able to give you warning if I have to
change directions or go into a dive all of a sudden," Emerald said.
"I understand. I'm sorry I failed you," Johnson said.
"You did not fail me. But if we are to act as one, we must act
together. A life will depend on us," Emerald said.
Johnson reached down and gently ran his hand along Emerald's neck.
Without warning once again Emerald went into another dive. Only this
time Johnson didn't falter. He laid down along her neck. She broke
her dive and leveled out once again.
"You did a good job. You relaxed and went with my dive," she said.
"Can you tell me what we will be hunting for?" Johnson asked.
"We will be protecting Hawk and searching for the Kaalans," Emerald
replied.
"Do you know what the Kaalans look like?" Johnson asked.
"No. We know that their eyes glow an amber green at night and they
can inhabit any form they devour. They are murderous killers. They've
murdered every one of the bird people that lived peacefully on this
planet. Now they have turned to killing the humans. They must be
stopped," Emerald replied.
"It is time for us to return to the others. It's getting late and
it's almost time," Saphira said.
As they joined up, Emerald and Saphira gently nodded to one another.
"It is time to return," Saphira said.
They flew back to the ledge, Emerald landed first, followed by Saphira.
Johnson and Murphy dismounted and walked over towards Buck and Wilma.
"How was it?" Buck asked.
"They are truly fine riders. They will be good as our riders,"
Emerald replied.
Saphira glanced around and didn't see Hawk and Ghost. "Where are our
brothers?" Saphira asked.
"Ghost took Hawk to just the other side of the ridge. He dropped him
off there, then Hawk will start his way to the lake from there. We are
to wait for thirty minutes then start our patrol. He wants time to
get there and get things ready," Wilma replied.
"That is too dangerous. He should have waited for us to return.
Anything can happen during that time," Emerald said.
"That's what I told him. But he's determined to get everyone of the
Kaalans tonight. He does have his weapon though, so he should be safe
enough," Wilma said.
"You don't understand! Kaalans hunt in what you humans call packs.
They never hunt alone. Hawk won't have a chance against a pack of
them, not alone!" Emerald said, loudly.
"In packs?" Buck asked, with concern in his voice.
"Yes, one will be a decoy while the others circle their pray. While
the pray in focused on the decoy the others will attacks for all
sides. The Kaalans will use a child or small animal form to lure in
their pray, then when the pray is fixed on the lure, they attack with
all their might. Tearing and shredding their pray to pieces,"
Saphira replied.
"We're not waiting thirty minutes we're going NOW!" Buck said as he
ran towards Ghost.
Ghost laid down and allowed Buck to mount with in moments. Wilma,
Johnson and Murphy did the same with Saphira, Nemna and Emerald. With
in moments, all were air-borne and heading towards the area where
Ghost had dropped off Hawk just a short time before.
Hawk was slowly walking towards the pond, where earlier Buck said he
saw the outline of the shadow. He started to place small dim torches
around as he got closer to the water. He had one more to place when
something caught his eye. In front of him was a shadow, not too close
to the water's edge, but close enough to be in danger.
"You must leave," he shouted.
The person didn't move or turn their head towards him.
Hawk ran quickly towards them. "You must get away from the water!" he
shouted.
The person finally turned towards Hawk. It was a small child. Hawk
started to slow his pace as he approached the child, looking around
as he got closer. He was about to reach the child when a lime green
light flashed in front of him. The child fell to the ground. He
turned to see Buck and the rest walking quickly towards him.
"Why did you do that? You killed this child!" Hawk yelled.
"Hawk, it was a set up. She was the bait and you're the prey. She was
placed here to attract you. I bet right now the others are gathering
close by," Buck explained.
"Bait? What are you talking about?" Hawk asked, glancing down at the
child.
"Lets leave this area. We need to talk some place where they can not
hear or see us," Buck said.
As they were about to leave, Hawk glanced over at the child lying on
the ground not far from them. "Look," Hawk said, pointing towards
the body.
They turned their heads to see the body starting to turn a amber
green mixed with white and orange lights. With in a few moments the
girl's body was gone. They slowly walked back over to the body. There,
lying in the same area of the little girl's body, were the remains of
an reptilian creature.
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
by ladyfreebird » Sat Jul 28, 2007 7:59 pm
Chapter 19
"Hawk, did you recognize the little girl?" Buck asked.
"Yes, it was the girl from the city. The one her brother was trying to
sell," Hawk replied.
"Now we know they can take on the form of other things," Hawk said, as
he knelt down next to the remains.
"We should leave this area and come up with a different plan." Buck
looked down at the creatures remains. "What should we do with the
remains?"
"Leave it," Nemna replied.
"We could learn so much from it. If we could take it up to the
Searcher," Wilma said.
"No, I have another idea. What would be the best way to bring them out
of hiding, besides live bait?" Hawk asked, glancing up at Buck.
Buck stood with a confused expression on his face. "I don't know," Buck
replied, staring down at Hawk and the remains.
"How about the prey feeding on the attacker?" Hawk asked.
"Hawk!" Wilma said loudly.
"Hawk's right. He'll be claiming the kill, which in turn might draw
them out of hiding," Buck replied, nodding.
"But how would that draw them out?" Saphira asked.
"They will see me feeding on one of them. That should draw them out.
They will instinctively want to fight for the kill," Hawk replied.
"Hawk, that's too dangerous," Wilma said.
"Can you think of any thing better to draw them out?" Hawk asked.
She stared at Hawk and Buck for a moment. "No, I can't. But, please be
careful," Wilma replied.
"Okay then, let's get out of here. The longer we stay the longer it'll
be before they come out," Buck said, as he walked over and started to
mount Ghost.
Murphy, Johnson and Wilma walked over and stood next to the other
guardians. Wilma turned. "Be careful, Hawk," she said, as she mounted
Nemna.
"I will keep a shape eye out. Most likely they will come from
different directions," Hawk replied.
Wilma nodded. After a few steps, Nemna leapt into the air and was gone.
The others followed. Hawk started to gather some rocks, placing them in
a small circle. He then started to gather sticks, branches and placed
them in the center of the fire-ring. He drew his weapon and fired a
single shot into the ring filled with the branches and sticks. Within
seconds the branches and sticks burst into flames. He knelt down and
started to stir the wood around. He then pulled the remains closer to
the outside of the ring in front of him. He reached down and pulled
some food out of his bag and started to eat. About an hour had passed
and still no sign of the attackers. He reached down and pulled up
some more food and started to eat again. He had just taken a bite when
he heard a noise behind him. He stood slowly and turned around.
A short distance from him were about five Kaalans. Hawk drew
his weapon. He heard another noise coming from the direction of the
water's edge. He glanced over his shoulder to see more Kaalans walking
towards him. In the dark, their eyes glowed an amber green. As they
came closer, their eyes glowed even brighter. Hawk turned back to the
first five that appeared and raised his weapon. Taking careful aim, he
fired a shot, missing the lead Kaalan's right front foot. The Kaalans
kept walking towards Hawk, but at a slightly faster pace. Hawk took
aim once again. This time he wasn't going to miss.
He fired another shot and hit one of the Kaalans directly in the head.
It let out a scream and started rolling over and over again, writhing
wildly on the ground. The others slowed and glanced over at the one
that had been shot. Hawk turned his attention to the Kaalans that were
walking up behind him. He took aim and fired a shot at the lead Kaalan,
hitting it in the front leg. It, too, let out a screaming cry. Just as
Hawk was about to turn back to the other four Kaalans, he heard some
flapping behind him. He turned around again to see Ghost, Buck, Johnson
and Emerald landing just behind the Kaalans. Emerald and Ghost took a
deep breath and exhaled a stream of fire, setting the Kaalans on fire.
The Kaalans began screaming. Hawk turned his attention back to the
Kaalans that had been almost upon him. He was about to fire his weapon
again when Wilma, Nemna, Murphy and Saphira landed just behind the
attacking Kaalans. Saphira and Nemna opened their mouths, reached down
and picked up two of the Kaalans. Once in their mouths, Saphira and
Nemna shook their heads viciously from side to side then bit down.
Hearing the screaming, Wilma had to cover her ears.
Hawk took aim again and fired his weapon, hitting another one of the
remaining Kaalans. It let out a high-pitched scream as it rolled over
and over. Ghost and Emerald were just about to take another breath when
Emerald let out a loud roar of pain. Johnson turned around to see
that a Kaalan had bit Emerald on the upper part of her right rear leg.
He jumped down off Emerald's back, drew his weapon and ran toward the
attacking Kaalan. The vicious creature, seeing a smaller more
accessible meal released Emerald's leg and started toward Johnson.
Just as Johnson was about to raise his weapon, Emerald whipped her
tail and slammed it down on another Kaalan that was approaching Johnson
from behind him. It appeared out of the small bushes just behind him.
Johnson not seeing the creature or what Emerald had done fired his
weapon at the on-coming creature that had attacked Emerald's leg.
Johnson, on foot, was now the main target for all the remaining
creatures. He turned and ran back toward Emerald's head. Hawk, still
standing by the fire-ring, noticed that one of the injured Kaalans was
trying to get back to the water. He ran toward it only to be blocked
by the few remaining Kaalans. The guardians and their riders turned to
see the few remaining Kaalans attacking Hawk. Ghost and Buck turned
just in time to see one of the Kaalans lunge towards his friend.
Then out of nowhere a blast of red light hit the lunging creature
and knocked it backwards. Hawk turned to see three men running towards
him from the forest edge.
Ghost leapt up into the air and with one flap of his massive wings,
landed in front of the escaping Kaalan. Ghost opened his mouth, picked
up the lumbering creature and snapped his jaws shut.
Hawk stopped and started to look around. Buck, Ghost, Wilma, Nemna
gathered close to him. The three men walked up and smiled. Hawk then
turned his attention back to the three remaining Kaalans. By the time
he raised his weapon to fire, Saphira and Emerald had them in their
mouths. Hawk then turned back to the men.
"Sorry we're late. We heard that you were coming to fight the Kaalans
from Jadia and her daughter. We tried to gather as many people as
possible, but they were too frightened," One of the men said.
"You still made it in time, thank you," Hawk said, reaching out his
hand.
The men gently nodded. Buck, Wilma, Murphy and Johnson walked over to
join them.
"We owe you a lot. You saved our planet and the people who live here,"
another man said.
"It wasn't just us. Your guardians are the true protectors of this
planet. You should be thanking them," Hawk replied.
"You're right. My father, grandfather and great-grandfather knew of
the protectors of this planet. But, we didn't know they really
existed, until now." The men walked over to the guardians. "We thank
you with all our hearts and souls," one of the men said, placing his
hand gently on Ghost's neck.
"We will always be here to protect you. It is our destiny," Ghost
replied.
The three men smiled and walked back into the forest. Hawk, Buck,
Wilma, Johnson and Murphy walked over to the guardians.
"It is time for you to leave now, our brothers and sister. But first,
reach into the small bag hanging around Saphira's neck. Inside you will
find an emblem. If you ever return to this planet, you will be
accepted by our next family as brothers and sister," Nemna said.
Hawk reached up and pulled a small red velvet bag out from around
Saphira's neck.
"Thank you, my brother. Maybe... one day soon, we will meet again,"
Hawk said.
They mounted the guardians for the last time. In one leap, they were
all air born and heading towards the cliffs. They dismounted, and
Wilma walked up to Nemna.
"I will truly miss you," Wilma said, embracing Nemna's neck.
"And I you," Nemna replied.
Hawk, Buck, Johnson and Murphy nodded then turned and walked away.
Wilma broke her embrace and followed.
They climbed into the fighters, started the engines and watched as the
guardians took flight. With the guardians gone, the fighters let the
planet and headed back up to the Searcher.
"Buck to Searcher."
"Searcher to Capt. Rogers... go ahead."
"Requesting landing bay numbers."
"Approach landing bays, 3, 4, 5, and 6."
"Landing bays 3, 4, 5 and 6... affirmative. Rogers out."
"Searcher out."
They guided their fighters into the assigned landing bays and shut
down their engines. Admiral Asimov walked over to greet them as they
exited the fighters.
"How did it go?" Asimov asked.
"As far as we know of, Admiral, all of the Kaalans have been
destroyed," Hawk replied.
"You five could do with some much needed rest. Report to your
quarters. I don't want to see you for twenty-four hours," Asimov
ordered.
"Yes sir, and thank you," Hawk said.
Hawk, Buck and Wilma walked out of the hanger bay and walked slowly to
Wilma's quarters.
"I'll see you later, Wilma," Buck said.
"Wilma smiled an exhausted smile and placed her hand on the control
panel. The door opened and she entered. Inside, she sat down and
looked at the small red velvet bag in her hand. She opened it and found
inside a brilliant red jewel. She gasped with surprise then smiled.
Buck entered his quarters and opened his bag. Inside he found a bright
green gem. He smiled and placed it on the table next to him.
Hawk entered his quarters, placed the velvet bag down and walked over
to the portal, gazing out he smiled. "I will return, some day my
brothers," he said softly. He turned, picked up the bag and opened it.
Inside was a deep blue gem. Hawk smiled, walked over and pulled out a
piece of leather he had left over from the harness he made Buck
earlier. He entwined it around the jewel and tied it around his neck.
"Good bye," he said, as he turned towards his sleeping area.
The End
"Hawk, did you recognize the little girl?" Buck asked.
"Yes, it was the girl from the city. The one her brother was trying to
sell," Hawk replied.
"Now we know they can take on the form of other things," Hawk said, as
he knelt down next to the remains.
"We should leave this area and come up with a different plan." Buck
looked down at the creatures remains. "What should we do with the
remains?"
"Leave it," Nemna replied.
"We could learn so much from it. If we could take it up to the
Searcher," Wilma said.
"No, I have another idea. What would be the best way to bring them out
of hiding, besides live bait?" Hawk asked, glancing up at Buck.
Buck stood with a confused expression on his face. "I don't know," Buck
replied, staring down at Hawk and the remains.
"How about the prey feeding on the attacker?" Hawk asked.
"Hawk!" Wilma said loudly.
"Hawk's right. He'll be claiming the kill, which in turn might draw
them out of hiding," Buck replied, nodding.
"But how would that draw them out?" Saphira asked.
"They will see me feeding on one of them. That should draw them out.
They will instinctively want to fight for the kill," Hawk replied.
"Hawk, that's too dangerous," Wilma said.
"Can you think of any thing better to draw them out?" Hawk asked.
She stared at Hawk and Buck for a moment. "No, I can't. But, please be
careful," Wilma replied.
"Okay then, let's get out of here. The longer we stay the longer it'll
be before they come out," Buck said, as he walked over and started to
mount Ghost.
Murphy, Johnson and Wilma walked over and stood next to the other
guardians. Wilma turned. "Be careful, Hawk," she said, as she mounted
Nemna.
"I will keep a shape eye out. Most likely they will come from
different directions," Hawk replied.
Wilma nodded. After a few steps, Nemna leapt into the air and was gone.
The others followed. Hawk started to gather some rocks, placing them in
a small circle. He then started to gather sticks, branches and placed
them in the center of the fire-ring. He drew his weapon and fired a
single shot into the ring filled with the branches and sticks. Within
seconds the branches and sticks burst into flames. He knelt down and
started to stir the wood around. He then pulled the remains closer to
the outside of the ring in front of him. He reached down and pulled
some food out of his bag and started to eat. About an hour had passed
and still no sign of the attackers. He reached down and pulled up
some more food and started to eat again. He had just taken a bite when
he heard a noise behind him. He stood slowly and turned around.
A short distance from him were about five Kaalans. Hawk drew
his weapon. He heard another noise coming from the direction of the
water's edge. He glanced over his shoulder to see more Kaalans walking
towards him. In the dark, their eyes glowed an amber green. As they
came closer, their eyes glowed even brighter. Hawk turned back to the
first five that appeared and raised his weapon. Taking careful aim, he
fired a shot, missing the lead Kaalan's right front foot. The Kaalans
kept walking towards Hawk, but at a slightly faster pace. Hawk took
aim once again. This time he wasn't going to miss.
He fired another shot and hit one of the Kaalans directly in the head.
It let out a scream and started rolling over and over again, writhing
wildly on the ground. The others slowed and glanced over at the one
that had been shot. Hawk turned his attention to the Kaalans that were
walking up behind him. He took aim and fired a shot at the lead Kaalan,
hitting it in the front leg. It, too, let out a screaming cry. Just as
Hawk was about to turn back to the other four Kaalans, he heard some
flapping behind him. He turned around again to see Ghost, Buck, Johnson
and Emerald landing just behind the Kaalans. Emerald and Ghost took a
deep breath and exhaled a stream of fire, setting the Kaalans on fire.
The Kaalans began screaming. Hawk turned his attention back to the
Kaalans that had been almost upon him. He was about to fire his weapon
again when Wilma, Nemna, Murphy and Saphira landed just behind the
attacking Kaalans. Saphira and Nemna opened their mouths, reached down
and picked up two of the Kaalans. Once in their mouths, Saphira and
Nemna shook their heads viciously from side to side then bit down.
Hearing the screaming, Wilma had to cover her ears.
Hawk took aim again and fired his weapon, hitting another one of the
remaining Kaalans. It let out a high-pitched scream as it rolled over
and over. Ghost and Emerald were just about to take another breath when
Emerald let out a loud roar of pain. Johnson turned around to see
that a Kaalan had bit Emerald on the upper part of her right rear leg.
He jumped down off Emerald's back, drew his weapon and ran toward the
attacking Kaalan. The vicious creature, seeing a smaller more
accessible meal released Emerald's leg and started toward Johnson.
Just as Johnson was about to raise his weapon, Emerald whipped her
tail and slammed it down on another Kaalan that was approaching Johnson
from behind him. It appeared out of the small bushes just behind him.
Johnson not seeing the creature or what Emerald had done fired his
weapon at the on-coming creature that had attacked Emerald's leg.
Johnson, on foot, was now the main target for all the remaining
creatures. He turned and ran back toward Emerald's head. Hawk, still
standing by the fire-ring, noticed that one of the injured Kaalans was
trying to get back to the water. He ran toward it only to be blocked
by the few remaining Kaalans. The guardians and their riders turned to
see the few remaining Kaalans attacking Hawk. Ghost and Buck turned
just in time to see one of the Kaalans lunge towards his friend.
Then out of nowhere a blast of red light hit the lunging creature
and knocked it backwards. Hawk turned to see three men running towards
him from the forest edge.
Ghost leapt up into the air and with one flap of his massive wings,
landed in front of the escaping Kaalan. Ghost opened his mouth, picked
up the lumbering creature and snapped his jaws shut.
Hawk stopped and started to look around. Buck, Ghost, Wilma, Nemna
gathered close to him. The three men walked up and smiled. Hawk then
turned his attention back to the three remaining Kaalans. By the time
he raised his weapon to fire, Saphira and Emerald had them in their
mouths. Hawk then turned back to the men.
"Sorry we're late. We heard that you were coming to fight the Kaalans
from Jadia and her daughter. We tried to gather as many people as
possible, but they were too frightened," One of the men said.
"You still made it in time, thank you," Hawk said, reaching out his
hand.
The men gently nodded. Buck, Wilma, Murphy and Johnson walked over to
join them.
"We owe you a lot. You saved our planet and the people who live here,"
another man said.
"It wasn't just us. Your guardians are the true protectors of this
planet. You should be thanking them," Hawk replied.
"You're right. My father, grandfather and great-grandfather knew of
the protectors of this planet. But, we didn't know they really
existed, until now." The men walked over to the guardians. "We thank
you with all our hearts and souls," one of the men said, placing his
hand gently on Ghost's neck.
"We will always be here to protect you. It is our destiny," Ghost
replied.
The three men smiled and walked back into the forest. Hawk, Buck,
Wilma, Johnson and Murphy walked over to the guardians.
"It is time for you to leave now, our brothers and sister. But first,
reach into the small bag hanging around Saphira's neck. Inside you will
find an emblem. If you ever return to this planet, you will be
accepted by our next family as brothers and sister," Nemna said.
Hawk reached up and pulled a small red velvet bag out from around
Saphira's neck.
"Thank you, my brother. Maybe... one day soon, we will meet again,"
Hawk said.
They mounted the guardians for the last time. In one leap, they were
all air born and heading towards the cliffs. They dismounted, and
Wilma walked up to Nemna.
"I will truly miss you," Wilma said, embracing Nemna's neck.
"And I you," Nemna replied.
Hawk, Buck, Johnson and Murphy nodded then turned and walked away.
Wilma broke her embrace and followed.
They climbed into the fighters, started the engines and watched as the
guardians took flight. With the guardians gone, the fighters let the
planet and headed back up to the Searcher.
"Buck to Searcher."
"Searcher to Capt. Rogers... go ahead."
"Requesting landing bay numbers."
"Approach landing bays, 3, 4, 5, and 6."
"Landing bays 3, 4, 5 and 6... affirmative. Rogers out."
"Searcher out."
They guided their fighters into the assigned landing bays and shut
down their engines. Admiral Asimov walked over to greet them as they
exited the fighters.
"How did it go?" Asimov asked.
"As far as we know of, Admiral, all of the Kaalans have been
destroyed," Hawk replied.
"You five could do with some much needed rest. Report to your
quarters. I don't want to see you for twenty-four hours," Asimov
ordered.
"Yes sir, and thank you," Hawk said.
Hawk, Buck and Wilma walked out of the hanger bay and walked slowly to
Wilma's quarters.
"I'll see you later, Wilma," Buck said.
"Wilma smiled an exhausted smile and placed her hand on the control
panel. The door opened and she entered. Inside, she sat down and
looked at the small red velvet bag in her hand. She opened it and found
inside a brilliant red jewel. She gasped with surprise then smiled.
Buck entered his quarters and opened his bag. Inside he found a bright
green gem. He smiled and placed it on the table next to him.
Hawk entered his quarters, placed the velvet bag down and walked over
to the portal, gazing out he smiled. "I will return, some day my
brothers," he said softly. He turned, picked up the bag and opened it.
Inside was a deep blue gem. Hawk smiled, walked over and pulled out a
piece of leather he had left over from the harness he made Buck
earlier. He entwined it around the jewel and tied it around his neck.
"Good bye," he said, as he turned towards his sleeping area.
The End
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
Closing Chapter
by ladyfreebird » Mon Aug 06, 2007 10:35 pm
A New Beginning
... Closing Chapter ...
A few days had passed since Hawk, Buck, Wilma, Johnson and Murphy
had their battle with the Kaalans. They were fully rested and back on
duty. In the sickbay, Lela had completely recovered from her injuries.
The sickbay door opened and Admiral Asimov walked into the sick bay.
"How are you feeling?" he asked.
"I'm feeling much better, thank you," Lela replied.
"I've made a call to the Galactic Council about your planet and the
trouble you've had with the Kaalans. Seeing we're unable to scan below
the water surface to make sure all the Kaalans have been destroyed. The
Galactic Council is sending another ship with new equipment that can
scan below the water, along with technicians to run it. They'll make
sure no Kaalans remain on your planet," Asimov said.
"Thank you," Lela replied, with tears swelling in her eyes.
"I know you've lost all your people. You're more than welcome to stay
on the Searcher," Asimov said.
Lela looked up at the Admiral with tear-filled eyes. "I want to go
home," she said, softly.
The Admiral nodded with understanding. "When you're ready, one of my
crew members will return you to Osjewelco," he replied. He turned and
left the sickbay.
A day later, Hawk was asked to take Lela and the old woman back down
to the planet's surface. He landed on the cliff, close to the
crystalized rocks that encased Mathayis's body.
"What happened to Mathayis?" Lela asked, gently running her hands over
the crystal grave.
"He died before the battle began. He was very old from what Gemka said.
The other guardians are still alive and doing well," Hawk replied.
Lela hung her head and started to weep softly. She looked up at Hawk.
"He'd still be alive if I was here," she said, weeping.
Hawk started assisting the two women back into the shuttle, when he
heard a familiar sound. He turned to see Ghost and Saphira fly past
them going up at a high rate of speed. As they flew upward, they
circled one another. Then without leveling out they grabbed one another
with their talons. They started into a free-fall, locked on to each
other. Their massive wings extended above their heads. They spiraled
down towards the ground. Hawk stood on the edge watching this
magnificent display of courtship. About one hundred feet from the
ground they broke their holding grip and parted.
Lela smiled as she watched. "They're going to be mates," she said,
smiling at Hawk.
"How about Nemna and Emerald? Will they be mates also?" Hawk asked.
"Yes," she replied.
Hawk smiled as he continued helping Lela into the shuttle. "I'll take
you home now," Hawk said, as he entered the shuttle.
The shuttle door closed and shortly afterward was on it's way down to
the small village. Hawk landed the shuttle in the clearing where they
first came in contact with Lela and her people. Some of the villagers
ran over to meet the shuttle, waving. Hawk opened the door and helped
the old woman out first, followed by Lela. Some of the villagers, who
were injured in the raid the day Hawk, Buck and Wilma arrived, slowly
walked over. Everyone embraced the old woman and then Lela.
Lela turned to Hawk. "Won't you stay with us?" she asked.
"I can not. I must search for more of my people." Hawk hung his head
for a moment then raised his head and looked at Lela once again. "I
have to serve out my punishment on the Searcher for what I did," Hawk
replied.
"What you did on Throm?" Lela asked.
"Yes," Hawk replied.
"You did what anyone would have done, after having their whole family
murdered," Lela said.
Hawk looked up towards the sky. "You will be well protected now. The
guardians will mate and have young and the other ship will be here soon
with the underwater monitor. Most likely, they too will stay." Hawk
turned his attention back to Lela. "We are family, not by blood, but
by our ancestors," Hawk said, as he turned and started to walk back to
the shuttle.
"You will return, won't you?" Lela asked.
Hawk stopped and turned his head towards Lela. "I will return,
someday," he replied, as he entered the shuttle.
Lela and the old woman, along with the people from the small village
watched and waved as the shuttle took off.
"Take care, my sister," Hawk said, softly as he headed back out into
space.
The End
... Closing Chapter ...
A few days had passed since Hawk, Buck, Wilma, Johnson and Murphy
had their battle with the Kaalans. They were fully rested and back on
duty. In the sickbay, Lela had completely recovered from her injuries.
The sickbay door opened and Admiral Asimov walked into the sick bay.
"How are you feeling?" he asked.
"I'm feeling much better, thank you," Lela replied.
"I've made a call to the Galactic Council about your planet and the
trouble you've had with the Kaalans. Seeing we're unable to scan below
the water surface to make sure all the Kaalans have been destroyed. The
Galactic Council is sending another ship with new equipment that can
scan below the water, along with technicians to run it. They'll make
sure no Kaalans remain on your planet," Asimov said.
"Thank you," Lela replied, with tears swelling in her eyes.
"I know you've lost all your people. You're more than welcome to stay
on the Searcher," Asimov said.
Lela looked up at the Admiral with tear-filled eyes. "I want to go
home," she said, softly.
The Admiral nodded with understanding. "When you're ready, one of my
crew members will return you to Osjewelco," he replied. He turned and
left the sickbay.
A day later, Hawk was asked to take Lela and the old woman back down
to the planet's surface. He landed on the cliff, close to the
crystalized rocks that encased Mathayis's body.
"What happened to Mathayis?" Lela asked, gently running her hands over
the crystal grave.
"He died before the battle began. He was very old from what Gemka said.
The other guardians are still alive and doing well," Hawk replied.
Lela hung her head and started to weep softly. She looked up at Hawk.
"He'd still be alive if I was here," she said, weeping.
Hawk started assisting the two women back into the shuttle, when he
heard a familiar sound. He turned to see Ghost and Saphira fly past
them going up at a high rate of speed. As they flew upward, they
circled one another. Then without leveling out they grabbed one another
with their talons. They started into a free-fall, locked on to each
other. Their massive wings extended above their heads. They spiraled
down towards the ground. Hawk stood on the edge watching this
magnificent display of courtship. About one hundred feet from the
ground they broke their holding grip and parted.
Lela smiled as she watched. "They're going to be mates," she said,
smiling at Hawk.
"How about Nemna and Emerald? Will they be mates also?" Hawk asked.
"Yes," she replied.
Hawk smiled as he continued helping Lela into the shuttle. "I'll take
you home now," Hawk said, as he entered the shuttle.
The shuttle door closed and shortly afterward was on it's way down to
the small village. Hawk landed the shuttle in the clearing where they
first came in contact with Lela and her people. Some of the villagers
ran over to meet the shuttle, waving. Hawk opened the door and helped
the old woman out first, followed by Lela. Some of the villagers, who
were injured in the raid the day Hawk, Buck and Wilma arrived, slowly
walked over. Everyone embraced the old woman and then Lela.
Lela turned to Hawk. "Won't you stay with us?" she asked.
"I can not. I must search for more of my people." Hawk hung his head
for a moment then raised his head and looked at Lela once again. "I
have to serve out my punishment on the Searcher for what I did," Hawk
replied.
"What you did on Throm?" Lela asked.
"Yes," Hawk replied.
"You did what anyone would have done, after having their whole family
murdered," Lela said.
Hawk looked up towards the sky. "You will be well protected now. The
guardians will mate and have young and the other ship will be here soon
with the underwater monitor. Most likely, they too will stay." Hawk
turned his attention back to Lela. "We are family, not by blood, but
by our ancestors," Hawk said, as he turned and started to walk back to
the shuttle.
"You will return, won't you?" Lela asked.
Hawk stopped and turned his head towards Lela. "I will return,
someday," he replied, as he entered the shuttle.
Lela and the old woman, along with the people from the small village
watched and waved as the shuttle took off.
"Take care, my sister," Hawk said, softly as he headed back out into
space.
The End
-
ladyfreebird - Fighter Falcon
- Posts: 968
- Joined: Mon Oct 02, 2006 9:51 am
- Location: Nebraska
21 posts
• Page 2 of 2 • 1, 2
