Europa: Engagement

By P. R. Garcia

For almost seven thousand years, the Terrians have devoted their lives to carrying out JeffRa’s revenge – the complete annihilation of the Oonock race. Using a puzzle JeffRa left behind, the new Terrian leaders are able to destroy the Complex and discover where Europa and Earon are hiding. They launch an armada of predatory warships to fulfill JeffRa’s vow at last.

Europa and Kiijon desperately search for a way to save their people. If they can’t find somewhere safe for the Oonocks to hide, there is little doubt that they will all die. And if she does find a way, the price she will have to pay is far more than she will be able to pay.

• Language: English
• Publisher: P. R. Garcia
• Release date: Jul 13, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370654499

P. R. Garcia

P. R. Garcia describes herself as a crazy, not-too-grayed haired old lady. Born during the winter of 1951 in Monroe County, Michigan, the youngest of three children, she attended Western Michigan University, where she majored in zoology. While living in Michigan, she became an award-winning basketweaver, carrying on the tradition of her maternal grandmother, Margaret Dark Feather. In 2008 she moved to southern California and became a volunteer at the Birch Aquarium of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a guide on the Gray whale touring boats. The following year she joined the Whalers, a dedicated group of volunteers from the San Diego Natural History Museum of San Diego, California, whose love of the Pacific cetaceans and other marine life off the shores of California matched her own. As a guide on the Hornblower and Flagship whale-watching boats, she introduced people from around the world to the wonders of the world of the Pacific cetaceans. In 2012 she combined her knowledge of these ocean mammals, her love of science fiction and astronomers’ exciting belief that life exists in the oceans beneath the ice shield of Europa, Jupiter’s ice moon, to create a new trilogy of an alien race from Europa, a race that has lived in our deep oceans for thousands of years. Using legends and known ancient landmarks from Earth’s past, she wove a story of intrigue, mystery, magic and adventure. In 2014 Ms. Garcia added three more books to the story of Europa. In early 2015, she began to tell Europa’s son, Prince Enok’s, story.Now an international bestselling author, Ms. Garcia is currently working on Book 10, which will be about Prince’s EJ’s twin daughters and the search for the destroyed colony on Mars.The Europa Saga may be the first multi-generational science fiction series ever written, spanning five generations of the Waters family. Start your adventure with a free copy of book 1 EUROPA Awakenings at https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/633078For a more traditional account, visit her webpage at http://www.prgarcia1.comSMASHWORDS Author Profile https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/prgarciaPlease remember to leave a review of my book at your favorite retailer.

Book preview

DEDICATION

To Jessica, my most cherished of beings. I owe her much for her patience over the years as I made her watch endless science fiction movies over and over and listen to me go on and on about my whale sightings. I wish her all the happiness in the world and love her more than life itself.

To the San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers for their love of the incredible cetaceans and other life that calls the Pacific Ocean their home. And for their dedication to the people of San Diego and the world to see the wonder and importance of these creatures through knowledge, sharing and guidance.

And to London, a most precious gift who always brings a smile to my face and great joy to my life.

ACKNOWLEGEMENT

I would like to acknowledge the extraordinary volunteers of the San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers Group and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla for their dedication to the cetaceans and other marine life residing in the waters off southern California and northern Mexico. Both organizations have a dedicated group of volunteers who work as naturalists on the whale boats during the gray whale migration season in San Diego from late December through mid-April. The Whalers also accompany the Blue Whale tours during the summer months. The knowledge these two volunteer groups have passed on to me was invaluable in writing this trilogy.

On October 18, 1989, NASA launched the spacecraft Galileo to study Saturn. In February of 1997 on its way to Saturn, Galileo briefly orbited Jupiter and sent back pictures of several of her larger moons, including IO, Ganymede and Europa. The images sent back confirmed the analysis Europa was covered by a layer of ice possibly sixty miles thick under which may exist a subsurface ocean. Many scientists believe Europa’s waters contain the three primary ingredients for life (water, heat, and organic compounds) and believe her waters have the best chance for containing alien life in our solar system. NASA had proposed a mission to determine if life does exist there, known as JIMO (Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter) but the project was cancelled in 2005. However, in May of 2012, ESA (European Space Agency) announced the selection of a new mission known as JUICE (Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer) and hopes to launch in 2022.

FOREWORD

Astrologists agree that there is a fantastic chance that life exists beneath the ice shield of Jupiter’s moon, Europa, in her vast ocean. My interpretation of Europa is a sealed world of lilac, salty water where ocean-floor-heat-vents spew heat, oxygen and sparkles of light up into the waters. Her deep oceans are filled will a diversity of life, many with the capability of bioluminescence. In this beautiful florescent world of light and color lives a sentient race known as the Oonocks; an ancient race at least seventy to one hundred million years old. They are, for the most part, peaceful beings, who value family and honor above all else. They have no words such as divorce, greed, want or hate, for those things do not exist. Every individual contributes something to the whole; those who do not partake is a specific area of study become soldiers; those too young to work attend school; and those too old teach the young. Although not a perfect society, it is pretty close.

These aquatic beings are equipped with three pairs of wings that glide them through their watery world. Their streamlined body is muscular and strong, tapering into a long tail with a feathery lilac end. Strings of pearl-shaped glowing lights cascade down from the top of their head, framing a gentle, oval face with large lilac eyes and soft lilac lips. Like most creatures of Europa, they are bioluminescent and glow a soft lilac color. Their expected life span is approximately twelve thousand years. Infancy lasts a hundred years and adulthood is not reached until one turns a thousand years old. And, as if this isn’t enough to convince us of their excellence and superiority, they are blessed with a special power – the ability to transform into both land and aquatic creatures equal to or larger than themselves.

Approximately sixty-four hundred years ago, this peaceful existence of the Oonock world was destroyed when the reigning king betrayed his middle son, JeffRa, devastating him beyond repair. In retaliation, JeffRa tried to assassinate his older brother, Enok, who was the future king. Once the best of friends, the two brothers became mortal enemies and civil war broke out. JeffRa and his followers were hunted down, caught and tried, then exiled to Ganymede, another of Jupiter’s moons. There he became the leader over a barbaric race called the Terrians, beings who embraced cruelty, greed, hate and war. But his exile did not stop his vow of revenge.

To save their people from his brother’s hate, King Enok and his mate, Queen Medaron, took twenty ships filled with Oonocks and fled Europa. Most of the ships went further out into the galaxy, but King Enok brought three ships to Earth to live. Using their ships of gold, the Oonocks built a large city and lived peacefully beside man. But JeffRa followed, forcing King Enok to sink their city over night, in a blaze of fire and water. Thus the legend of Atlantis is born. There, beneath the cloak of darkness and water, the Oonock race remained, safe and unknown, for thousands of years. Occasionally, they emerged and tried to live on land again, but the human race had grown greedy, wanting, arrogant, defiant and the ruler over his own kind, some even making themselves into gods. The time for the Oonocks and humans to live together as one had passed.

After many centuries, the Oonocks emerged once more and build a new city on the other side of the world, far from humans. They chose a location high on top of a high plateau in Bolivia (Puma Punku) and built a new residence called Third City. There they lived in happiness and peace, safe behind their stone walls, hidden from the world, never interacting with the indigenous natives. For several hundred years they thrived in harmony and contentment until one fateful day the sound of marching feet broke the stillness of the air. JeffRa and his army of Terrians had found them

A great battle ensued. Many Oonocks and most of the Terrians were killed. JeffRa was at last defeated, but not before he unleashed a horrible weapon upon the Oonocks – the inability to procreate. With no way to reproduce and no way to return home, the Oonocks faced a dismal future; when the last one died, the great Oonock race will be no more. Hidden in the ocean depths, awaiting their demise, they were elated centuries later when it was discovered Queen Medaron was pregnant with the future Queen. Yet, with this news, came the realization that the unborn female could not survive being born as an Oonock. To ensure her survival, the decision was made for her to be born on land as a human. To protect her, it is also decided that she will never know who or what she really is. Thus begins book one, EUROPA: Awakenings and the Europa Series.

Europa, the young human princess, grew up happy on a beautiful estate in California, unaware that those protecting her were transformed Oonocks. The day after her twentieth birthday, her mother is assassinated and her world is turned upside down. With the help of her protector, her brother and a human friend, she learns who and what she is, and to accept the real truth.

In Book Two, EUROPA Quanundocii, the Orbs begin to transfer Europa into the Oonock she was meant to be. Striping away her humanity, they put her life in peril. She is united with Kiijon in the Quanundocii, a love so deep that, as long as the two are together, they can conquer anything – even death. As one, they must find a way to save the Oonocks from the new Terrian leader and his army. Book Two ends with the Orbs transforming Europa into an Oonock against her will.

CELEBRATION

Europa looked over the display of food spread out upon the tables. A huge squid extended across most of them, with baskets and bowls of various foods tucked along its side. She could see octopus, lobster, shrimp, various types of fish, sea greens, something that looked like worms and a few items she had never seen before. Looking over the variety of foods, she knew there was almost nothing there she could eat.

Kiijon, I do not think I can eat any of this food, she whispered to Kiijon, as she leaned close to him. I have never eaten raw food.

This is what we Oonocks eat, Kiijon replied, remembering they had not had time to train on Oonock cuisine. Perhaps try some of the greens. Many of them taste much like the greens on land. Would you like me to select several choices for you?

Yes, please, Europa responded. Kiijon took her plate and walked around the table, selecting several different types of greens whose taste he thought would agree with her. When he returned, he placed the plate of various vegetables before her. She looked down at the assortment and wondered if she would ever get used to Oonock food. She knew that, if she was going to spend any amount of time at the complex, she would have to somehow consume these types of foods.

Try the large sea bulbs, Kiijon suggested. They taste a lot like potatoes. And the long leafy stems taste similar to your lettuce.

Europa did as Kiijon suggested and picked up a sea bulb and brought it up to her mouth. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes and took a bite. It had the texture of a raw potato but contained a much stronger taste, similar to a turnip. She began to chew and somehow managed to swallow it. Not wishing for another bite, she tried the leafy stems. They were more to her liking tasting, as Kiijon suggested, like lettuce.

Seeing Europa was not eating much Enok leaned over to his daughter. Is there something wrong, Europa? You are not eating much.

Europa looked at her father and whispered, Father, there is not much here I can eat. I do not like raw seafood and the vegetables are not to my liking either. I guess I should have tried more Oonock food above.

If you are going to spend time at the complex it will be important for you to learn to eat this type of food, Enok replied. But perhaps I can help this time. He turned and motioned for one of the guards to approach him. He whispered something to the guard, who immediately left and returned with one of the royal food preparers. Enok whispered to her also and she quickly went to the royal kitchen. She returned ten minutes later with a plate covered with a large green leaf which she sat down in front of Europa. I believe this will be more to your liking, Enok stated, lifting the leaf. To her joy, Europa saw before her a medium-sized fish covering the plate with heat rising from it. Europa took her eating utensil, pulled off a piece of the fish and placed it in her mouth.

Oh, this is delicious, she commented, swallowing the cooked fish. I did not believe it was possible to cook anything here.

Our food is usually eaten raw, Enok stated. But, we have learned how to heat a stone grill on which some foods can be cooked. I will instruct the royal food preparers to cook any of your fish before serving you until you get accustomed to eating it raw.

Thank you, Father, Europa said, as she smiled and kissed her father on the cheek. I believe you just saved me some embarrassment. I do not want the people to think I do not like the food they have prepared for my celebration.

There is no need to be embarrassed, Enok replied. The people know you are not used to eating Oonock food. He smiled, looking over at Kiijon who was on his third helping of raw squid. Besides, I do believe Kiijon is making up for your lack of an Oonock appetite.

Kiijon turned to look at Enok. I forgot how much I loved fresh squid. It has been quite a while since I had the opportunity to indulge in such a treat.

When we return to the island we definitely have to get you eating more Oonock food, Jeanip stated. In time, I am sure you will get use to eating such foods. It took me years to acquire a taste for human food.

Once everyone had had their fill, Europa and Kiijon, accompanied by Enok, Jeanip and three guards, walked amongst the Waters, meeting them. Although there were too many for her to meet at this first encounter, Europa did her best to meet as many as possible. After several hours Enok announced it was time for them to retire. This celebration will probably go on for many more hours. I believe it would be best for us to retire and allow the people to celebrate to their hearts’ content.

I agree with your father, Kiijon said, turning to Europa. We don’t want you overdoing it your first day down here.

I am tired, Europa responded, suddenly realizing how exhausted she was. May I come back and meet more tomorrow?

Perhaps we can set aside some time each day where the people can come to the palace and meet you, Jeanip suggested. He turned to Enok. Having the people come to the palace would allow us better security and ensure her protection.

I agree, Enok said.

As do I, concurred Kiijon. Having audiences at the palace would allow us to better monitor her activities. We must also begin planning on how we are going to get you back to the world above. Plus, it will be necessary for you to return to school tomorrow to help with your return.

Must we start training so soon? Europa asked, trying to hide a yawn. Can I not wait a day or so?

No, Kiijon is right, Jeanip stated. It is important for you to start training immediately.

Enok took his daughter’s hand and together they rose up into the water a few feet above the celebration. Kiijon rose and remained at Europa’s side while Jeanip, Runbee, Graybin and the three guards waited behind them. If I may have your attention, Enok announced. It is time for us to take our leave. Please, continue with your celebration. We will announce when Europa will hold audience at the palace if you were unable to meet her today. On behalf of Europa and Kiijon, we thank you for this wonderful celebration and wish you well. Without a word, the Waters raised their hands to their foreheads and bowed as the royal entourage ascended to the wall opening.

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You two can stay in my room tonight, Enok announced, as they floated down the walkway toward the palace and the royal habitat. I will sleep in Earon’s old room. Jeanip, I assume you will want to remain close to Europa, so permission is granted for you to stay with us. I will leave it up to you as to your resting location. Have two security personnel stand guard outside my habitat’s entrance.

Yes, Sire, Jeanip replied. I had already planned on posting guards.

Runbee and Graybin, return to the surface and help Teerdomay with the island’s security, Enok ordered. Have your squad continue their protection of the island. Let Earon know once more that Europa will be down here for several days, possibly a week. Tell him once we decide on the best way to bring her back to the surface we will advise him of her arrival. Remembering Europa was now the Supreme Monarch, Enok turned to her and asked, Is there anything you want to add, Europa?

No, Father, I think you covered it all, Europa stated, trying to stifle another yawn.

Then let us get you to bed, Enok replied upon reaching his habitat. As he opened the door, he announced, Here it is. Your new home for the next few days.

Europa floated through the door, excited to finally see what her parent’s living quarters looked like. She was surprised to see how sparse the furnishings were. She wondered if there were more furnishings when her mother lived there. There was a long marble bench covered with some sort of vegetation. Two matching smaller slabs with backs were in front of the long slab, facing it. Europa assumed this was the Oonock equivalent to a couch and two chairs. To the right of the couch was a large crystal vase containing a green leafy plant covered in small purple flowers. Suddenly, she noticed several of the flowers move. Looking closer, she saw the flowers were actually small fish swimming inside the plant; apparently the plant was their home. She smiled as she held out her hand and watched as the fish quickly left their sanctuary and swam to her hand, nibbling on her fingers. Finding no food to eat, they quickly swam back to the safety of their home.

Giggling, she turned toward her father. This is amazing. You have fish that freely swim about in your home.

Enok walked over to a small container sitting on a wall shelf and retrieved some tidbits for his little guests. He returned to Europa and placed the food into her palm. Here, hold this out for them. They are used to extended hands having something to eat in them.

To Europa’s amazement, she extended her hand closer to the plant and watched as twenty-two little purple fish rushed out and covered her hand, eating the morsels Enok had placed there. Her eyes began to twinkle as she giggled and said, They tickle. Once they had finished the food, they returned to the plant.

They get fed once in the morning and once at night, Enok stated. Be sure they are fed no more than that. They will try to get you to feed them more often. Enok smiled, seeing the wonder in his daughter’s eyes at something he took for granted. Most Oonocks had some form of fish living in their abodes.

Continuing her examination of her parents’ home, Europa noticed on the far wall an empty cage. She wondered what type of animal use to inhabit it and when. Her eyes moved to the left wall where a picture of her parents hung along with one of Earon and, to her surprise, a picture of herself. To the right of the pictures was an ornate shelf with numerous sculptures and elaborate pieces of crystal. There was even a crystal bowl filled with what looked like jewels. On the right wall hung a painting of a beautiful golden city. She floated over to the painting and looked at it intently, amazed at its grandeur. Was this Atlantis?

That was our first city, her father replied.

The one you had to sink to hide your presence from JeffRa? Europa asked.

Yes, Enok responded. We called our city ‘Liitis’. Over the years humans changed its name.

It was indeed beautiful, Europa stated, as she studied the painting.

That it was, Jeanip replied. You can still see some of the original structures here in this city. The palace is one of the original buildings, as is your parent’s habitat. The medical unit is also one of the original structures.

Perhaps tomorrow you can take a tour of the complex, Kiijon suggested, seeing Europa try to stifle her yawn. But for now, I believe you are in need of some rest.

This way to the bedroom, Enok said, motioning his wing forward. Europa and Kiijon followed Enok through the habitat to the master bedroom. It too was simple, but eloquent. The walls were the color of lilac. A large sculpture of whales and dolphins adorned the main wall. In the middle of the room was a large hammock-like netting hung from four white marble pillars, presumably the bed. Over to one corner were two Oonock chairs with a white marble table between them, on which set several crystal bowls. Since Oonocks had no need for clothing, there were no dressers or storage bins anywhere to be seen. A full-length mirror stood to the right of a door leading to a small storage area. Enok approached the hammock and turned to Europa. Since we live in a wet world we have no need for a mattress or blankets. This is how we sleep – inside this netting. Our body temperature does not drop while we sleep, so you should not get cold during your rest period.

Thank you, Father, Europa said, fighting to keep her eyes opened.

I will leave you two to rest if you do not need anything further. Enok turned to Kiijon. I will rely upon you to show Europa the proper way to rest. He floated over to Europa and kissed her gently on the cheek. I will see you tomorrow when you awaken. Have a good rest.

Good night, Father, Europa said, returning the kiss, again attempting to hide a yawn. Good night, Jeanip. Thank you both.

Good night, Kiijon, Enok said. Tomorrow we will discuss how you propose to return Europa to the world above.

As you wish, Father, Kiijon stated. Have a good rest. You too, Jeanip.

You both rest well, also, Jeanip replied. If you have no further need of me, I will retire to the other room. He looked directly at Europa. I will be right outside your room if you need me, Europa.

Thank you, Jeanip, she replied.

Jeanip and Enok floated out of the room to allow the young monarchs some privacy to rest. Several moments later Enok poked his head back inside the bedroom and addressed Kiijon. Kiijon, be sure to cap both of your tails before retiring. The last thing we need is for Europa to become implanted with a child and complicate this situation even more than it is now.

I was just thinking that same thought, Father, Kiijon replied. Since I am not prepared for this unexpected stay, might I trouble you for coverings?

I believe there are still some in the storage area, Enok replied, motioning toward the storage door. Although Medaron and I have not had to use them for many years I do believe there are still some in there. Having said that, Enok turned and left, closing the door behind him.

Seeing how tired Europa was, Kiijon decided to show her how to rest in her new body before checking for coverings. Come here, My Love, and I will show you the correct way an Oonock sleeps. Exhausted, Europa floated over to Kiijon. Sleeping as an Oonock is not much different than sleeping as a human except you have a little extra skin on your sides. You need to fold your wings in and wrap them around the front of your body. Like this. He folded his wings in to demonstrate how it was done, and watched as Europa tried to do the same. Realizing she might be too tired to master the control of her wings, he decided it might be better if he folded them for her. Here, let me do it for you tonight. Kiijon reached over and folded in her middle wing, then her bottom and lastly her top wing. Then he gently brought them forward and overlapped them across her front. There, that should keep you nice and warm. I am going to lift you up and lay you in the bed. As Kiijon lifted her into his arms Europa caught sight of herself in the mirror. She looked like a caterpillar in its cocoon, she thought. Softly, he laid her down in the bed, placing some kind of pillow beneath her head. There you go, My Dearest. I am going to go over to the storage area and see if there are some coverings in there for our tails, then I will be right back to rest with you. He leaned down and kissed her.

Thank you, Kiijon, she said, her eyes closing.

It is my pleasure, My Queen and My Love, he stated. He hurried over to the storage area and looked through several containers until he found a box of coverings. Grabbing two, he returned to the bed where Europa was already fast asleep. You have had a busy day, My Queen. Rest well. He carefully brought her tail up so as not to awaken her and slipped a covering over the end, then softly placed it beneath her. He then capped his own tail, chuckling to himself as he did. It had been many years since he had to use such devices to prevent implanting a female. He rose into the water and floated for a moment above the bed, wrapped his wings around himself as he had showed Europa then allowed his body to drift down into the netting beside his mate. When he felt her snuggle up next to him, he unwrapped his top wing and wrapped it around her body. Soon he too was fast asleep.

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Sire, please feel free to retire to Earon’s room, Jeanip said to Enok. I will keep watch over her.

Thank you, Jeanip, but I fear neither of us are going to get much sleep tonight, Enok replied. What if she wakes up during the night forgetting where she is and tries to breathe? Or even worse, what if she starts to change back into a human without her knowledge?

The binding bands will keep her from reverting back to a human, Jeanip assured Enok, although he too was worried about such a possibility. And we need to trust in the Quanundocii. She is with Kiijon so nothing can happen to her. She will survive the night as she has survived everything that has happened to her these past months, Enok. You need to stop worrying so much. Trust in their love, trust in the Quanundocii.

Enok turned and smiled at Jeanip. Well, this is something new for you. Talking about love? I have never heard you say such a statement before, Jeanip. Perhaps my ways, or Europa and Kiijon’s, are starting to affect you.

A scowl crossed Jeanip’s face. Even though I may never mention it, Sire, I have always believed in love. You and Medaron taught me that, and it has been reconfirmed numerous times by the love those two youngsters in there have for each other. I never thought I would be privileged to see a love greater than the one between you and my sister, but I do believe their love will surpass even yours.

I do believe you are right, Enok said. Their love for each other is very deep, very pure. It is that love which will save our people. That is, if we can figure out how to return her to the world above safely. I still do not understand what Kiijon was thinking when he brought her here.

He wasn’t thinking, Enok, Jeanip replied. All he knew was she was going to die if he didn’t do something. And he didn’t have the option of taking her into FarCore. He had no option BUT to bring her below.

And why could he not get through that damn door? Enok asked.

That I do not know, Sire, Jeanip answered, settling into one of the chairs. But the answer is one of my top priorities when I return to the island. We had everything in place for such an emergency, yet something prevented the door from opening.

Make sure you find the answer and let me know. Also, I want Tiibee to run some tests on Europa first thing tomorrow morning and determine how much human remains in her. That will give us some idea of how much danger she is in.

Even if she’s one hundred percent Oonock that might not stop her from accidently transforming, Jeanip stated.

That I am all too well aware of, Enok said.

Might I suggest, Sire, we try taking turns keeping watch tonight, Jeanip said, knowing they both were going to need rest for what was to transpire over the next several days. We both need rest and there is no sense in both of us staying awake. If you have no objections, I will take the first watch and will wake you in four hours. Is that agreeable with you?

I doubt I will get any rest, but it is a good plan, Enok replied. But I will rest here, outside her room, instead of in Earon’s room. This way I will be close in case anything happens.

As you wish, Your Majesty, Jeanip said, seeing Enok settle down up the couch and close his eyes. Soon, like Europa and Kiijon, emotional exhaustion overtook him and he was sound asleep.

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Earon wants to know if you want to join us for some ring-tossing in the sea pool? EeRee asked Windar as she laid on her bed. Ever since she had learned her careless tossing of the ball had almost ended the life of her queen, Windar had barely come out of her room.

Thanks, but I think I’ll just stay in my room today, Windar said in a voice almost too soft to hear. EeRee could tell she had been crying again.

Windar, everyone knows it was an accident, EeRee said, walking over and sitting down on the side of the bed. You can’t stay in here forever. You need to go outside and get some fresh air. Go have some fun.

Fun? Windar asked, beginning to cry again. I wanted to have fun the other day and, because of it, I almost killed Europa.

EeRee took her little sister into her arms and held her as the tears flowed from her eyes. Windar, Sweet Windar, you have to get past this. Europa is fine and she is not upset with you. No one is. Please believe me.

I, I can’t face anyone, she cried. I told mother I would behave. She must be so disappointed in me. And Kiijon! He must really hate me.

Sweet Little Sister, Mother is not disappointed in you, EeRee said, again trying to calm her sister. And I know for a fact that Kiijon does not hate you.

Just then there was a knock at the bedroom door. Earon poked his head inside and saw the two females on the bed. He could hear Windar crying. No luck?

No, EeRee whispered. I can’t get her to come out. She thinks everyone is mad at her or hates her for the accident.

Earon stepped into the room. But I thought Teerdomay explained to her she was not in trouble and that no one was mad at her.

She did, but I do not think it did any good.

Earon looked over to the table where the food tray Doogon had brought up for Windar remained untouched. It looks like she still is not eating either. She cannot stay in this room forever, and if she does not start eating, she is going to become ill. He thought for a moment, then a smile came to his face as he walked toward them. Here, give her to me. Earon reached down and lifted Windar up into his arms.

No, put me down, Windar cried. I want to stay in my bed.

Well, young lady, as your monarch I am giving you an order that you are not allowed to be in your bed or this room for the next two days.

No, Earon, don’t order me to do that, she begged.

Sorry, the order has already been spoken and cannot be taken back, Earon announced, as he began to carry her from the room.

EeRee, help me, Windar cried. Make him stop. PLEASE!

EeRee did not say a word but just stared at Earon as he left the room carrying Windar, wondering what he was up to. She followed him down the hallway and into the Library where he went and stood before the painting of his parents. I am Earon, son of Monarchs Medaron and Enok. I bring with me a youngling whose name is Windar. She is the youngest daughter of Glendow and Essla of the Waters clan. She is in desperate need of your wonders and I ask we be allowed passage. Ennay Benu Carif. The passage to FarCore opened and Earon stepped through with Windar. He waited for the youngling to raise her head and look around, but she kept her head buried in his chest. Windar, look. You need to see this.

No, she cried, tears still flowing down her cheeks.

Sweetheart, look where you are, Earon said, trying to get her to see her surroundings. You are no longer at Saint’s Isle. You are in a land of wonder and mystery. Please, for me, just take a small look. If you do, and do not want to stay, I will retract my order and take you back to your room.

You promise?

Yes, Sweetheart, I promise.

Windar raised her head and looked around. Instantly, the tears ceased as she saw they were in an environment of lilac waters. She turned to Earon and saw he had transformed into his true state. She looked down at her hands and realized she too had transformed. Where are we, Earon?

This is the world of the Orbs, Earon replied, smiling. It is a magical world where almost anything is possible. He allowed her a few minutes to look around. Would you like to get down and explore it with me or would you like me to take me back to your room?

Windar smiled and said, I would like to get down and explore.

Excellent, Earon said, putting Windar down. I really did not want to have to explore it by myself. Take my hand and I will show you some of the wonders of this world. Windar placed her small hand inside Earon’s, and together they floated over to the orbiting planets. He pointed to Earth. Look, Windar, this is Earth, the planet we live on.

It’s so beautiful, Windar stated in awe. It’s so blue. Is all of that blue water?

Yes, Sweetheart. He then swam her over to Jupiter and its moons. Look her, Windar. This white moon circling Jupiter is our homeworld, Europa. This is where our people come from, where your parents were born. It is covered in ice, and beneath that ice is a world of lilac water.

Windar stared at the ice moon, amazed to see her homeworld. She had never dreamt it would ever be possible to see it. Earon took her hand and walked her over to the window. Through the window, Windar, you can see hundreds, maybe thousands of other worlds.

Other worlds?

Yes. Each world has its own entrance into the Orb’s realm, Earon explained. This is a library where all the histories of all the worlds in the universe are stored. It is known as FarCore.

Can we go to those other worlds? Windar asked, excitement definitely audible in her voice.

You know the first time I came here I asked the same thing, Earon laughed, relieved to see his charge was no longer crying "But, unfortunately, we can only see those worlds through the window. There is no way to visit them.

That’s too bad. I would very much like to visit some of them.

But there is still lots to see here, Earon said. Hey, would you like to see the Orbs?

Really? They’re here?

Yes, at least the ones for Europa are. I believe each one of those worlds have their own set of Orbs. Earon led her down the hallway to the table where the Orbs were housed. He was delighted to see Chancee there studying one of the Orbs.

Well hello, you two, Chancee said, surprised to have visitors. What are you two doing here?

Earon winked at Chancee. Windar needed a change of scenery since she has been in her bedroom for several days. I thought perhaps she might enjoy seeing the wonder of the Orbs’ realm.

Oh, I see, Chancee replied, realizing Windar was still too upset and embarrassed to come out of her room and Earon was hoping a trip to FarCore might entice her to join the world of the living. He bent down to look into the youngling’s face. There are many wonderful things here to see. Would you like to see what your homeworld of Europa looks like?

Earon already showed me, Windar said, smiling.

I can show you what it looks like beneath its covering of ice, Chancee replied. He rose and reached over the table and withdrew one of the glowing Orbs. He placed it on the pedestal and instantaneously their surroundings were transformed into the Europa of old, the Europa that existed before Jupiter’s implosion. Both Chancee and Earon smiled as they saw Windar’s eyes open wide in wonder and amazement, her mouth opening in awe.

Is this what Europa looks like? Windar asked. It is so beautiful.

Yes, she is, Chancee stated. This is what it looked like when we left. I do not know if it still looks that way, but I like to think it still does.

Can I see more? Windar asked, looking at Earon.

Tell you what, Sweetheart, Earon replied. If you promise to stop blaming yourself for the accident with the door and agree to come out of your room and join the rest of us, I promise to bring you here each day for an hour. Together, we will explore whatever you want to.

You promise?

Yes, I promise. Chancee here can be your witness.

Windar thought for a moment. She still believed the accident was her fault, but she really wanted to see more of this magical place. Okay, I promise since you did.

And the first thing we are going to do when we leave here is go have something to eat in the kitchen. Then we will go to the sea pool and play some ring-tossing. Okay?

Going to the kitchen and sea pool meant she would have to see other people and the disappointed looks on their faces. But the enticement of FarCore was too hard to resist. Okay.

Earon turned and escorted Windar back to the Library, where EeRee was still waiting. When Windar saw her sister she ran to her, saying in excitement, EeRee, you should see where Earon took me. He took me to a magical place, a place where the Orbs are. I got to see our homeworld and Chancee showed me what it looked like. Earon said I can go everyday if I agree to come out of my bedroom and stop blaming myself. Oh, EeRee, it was so wonderful. I can’t wait until tomorrow when I can go back. She turned and began to run from the room.

Where are you going now? EeRee asked.

To the kitchen, she answered. I told Earon I would eat something and then I’m going to play ring toss with you two. Windar stopped when she saw neither Earon nor EeRee were moving. Well, come on you two. I’m really hungry.

Right behind you, Sweetheart, Earon said, taking EeRee’s hand.

EeRee leaned over and kissed Earon’s cheek. I do not know how you did it, but thank you.

Just remember that when I beat you at ring toss later, he replied. Together, they ran from the room trying to catch the newly energized Windar.

COMPLEX LIFE

Good morning, My Love, Kiijon said as Europa opened her eyes. Do you remember where you are?

Good morning, My Dearest, Europa answered, giving him a big smile. I do remember. I am at the complex, in my parent’s bedroom, safely sleeping in your wings.

That you are, Kiijon replied, leaning down and kissing her passionately. Do you need help unfolding your wings or do you think you can do it?

Let me try to do it on my own, she said, preparing to stretch out her folded wings as she sat up.

You need to open them the same way you closed them, Kiijon instructed. First the top wing, then the bottom and lastly the middle wing. Remember, the middle wing is always the first in and the last one out. It is not as important as your other two wings and, if put away incorrectly, can affect your mobility and navigation.

Here goes. Europa concentrated and opened up her top wing. After a few minutes she was able to open her bottom wing. She remembered that yesterday she had trouble operating the middle wing, so she tried extra hard to unfold it but to no avail. She just couldn’t get it to open.

Let me help you, Kiijon said, reaching out and gently unfolding her middle wing. We’ll practice opening and closing this one. It takes a little more effort to operate.

Once all three wings were unfolded, she stretched them and rose into the water. She gently swayed her top and bottom wings back and forth to gain height and swam over to Kiijon. Do you think Father and Jeanip are awake? I am starving and would love to go into the eating room for something to eat.

I am sure they had little rest last night, Kiijon said. Since it was your first night down here, they were probably up all night keeping watch over you while I rested.

But I thought the binding bands would prevent me from accidently changing?

Yes, they should, but we do not know how much human is still left inside you, Europa. Even with the binding bands you could try to transform back.

Let us not think of that, she replied. Let us enjoy this day. I believe I was promised a tour of the complex this morning.

Yes you were, Kiijon said, drawing her into his wings. We also need to strategize about how to return you to the world above and get you back in school to learn how to exist as an Oonock. But the first thing we need to do is remove your covering. No Oonock would go outside with such an intimate thing still on them. Kiijon reached down and brought her tail forward.

Europa saw the end of her tail encased in some sort of wrapping. She reached out and touched the covering. When I did get this? And why?

Kiijon brought his tail forward so she could see he, too, had a covering over his tail. I put them on after you fell asleep last night. This is the equivalent to what Oonocks use for birth control. It keeps a pod from being fertilized and implanted inside a female during Freetiwon.

Did we engage in Freetiwon? Europa asked. She knew she had been tired, but she didn’t think she had been so tired she wouldn’t have remembered engaging in Freetiwon.

No, My Love, Kiijon laughed. It was just a precaution in case we woke up during the night and decided to have some fun. Kiijon reached out and untied the covering and began to remove it from Europa’s tail. As he did, his hand accidentally brushed up alongside the tip of her tail.

Oh, Europa gasped, as his touch sent electrical stimulation down her tail and through her body. What did you just do? Something exciting just pulsed through my entire being.

I must have touched the sensitive part of your tail, Kiijon said, smiling at the look of satisfaction upon her face. Would you like me to do it again or should we go see if your Father and Jeanip are up?

Again please, she replied, her eyes twinkling. She leaned forward and kissed him hungrily.

Perhaps we had best put this back on for the moment, Kiijon stated, replacing the covering back onto Europa’s tail. I do believe we may need it.

There, for the first time as a true Oonock, Europa engaged in Freetiwon. Their love for each other reunited their souls and strengthening their bond, making them undefeatable.

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Good morning, Sire, Jeanip stated as his sovereign woke. I am glad to see you got some rest after all.

Surprisingly, I see we both did, Enok replied. I wonder if our two visitors are awake.

I heard them earlier, Jeanip replied. But they haven’t come out of the bedroom, so they must have found something to occupy their time.

I am sure they did, Enok smiled. I am glad I remembered to remind Kiijon to use the coverings.

I believe after what happened the last time they engaged in Freetiwon Kiijon will never forget again to use coverings, Jeanip replied, rising and stretching his wings, working the kinks out of them. Would you like me to go over to the meal building and obtain something for their breakfast?

I have a heating stone in the meal room and some fresh vegetables, but no fish or any type of meat. Ask the royal cooks for some fresh fish we can cook for Europa and some squid for you, Kiijon and myself. We do not have anything to resemble coffee so I guess Europa will have to get accustomed to drinking squint while she is down here. Stop and ask Tiibee or Seeniff to come by so we can get those tests run. Ask them to bring along some type of supplement drink for her also. Since her food selection is very limited, I believe she will need some other form of nutrition.

I agree, Your Majesty, Jeanip replied. Do you have any idea how long she will be have to remain down here?

We will not be able to determine that until we decide the best way to take her back to the surface. Once we determine that we will know what training she will need and how much.

Then if you have no further need of me at the moment, Sire, I will go and obtain the food and have the medical assistant stop by.

Make it so, Enok responded, as he too rose and stretched his wings.

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That was incredible, Europa said. I had forgotten how wonderful Oonock love making was.

It is wonderful, Kiijon replied. And very different from human sexuality. He paused for a moment and tenderly kissed her. I think we probably should go out into the other room before your father and Jeanip wonder what happened to us. I believe I smell breakfast. Besides, you have some schooling to attend and some more subjects to meet.

And a tour of the complex,