Flights of Fancy

By Michael James Wilbur

The mission to Ronisgald was a success, even if it left Mikaen and his friends stranded. With their vessel damaged and Narrator Number One's ability to alter reality temporarily lost, there is little that they can do. Fortunately for them, rescue is just on the horizon, and not a moment too soon; Liegan and his Revs are continuing with their plans to find the Raenqal, an ancient machine that supposedly has the power to move entire planets. With the first part already uncovered in Ronisgald, the Revs are setting their sights on the technological super-nation of Rimstak and the floating continent of Rising Star.

Take to the skies with thrilling dog fights, scheming sky pirates, a wild race through the skies of Rimstak, and a continent full of xenophobic sentients as Mikaen, One, and their friends try to stop the Revs before their plans spell destruction for Vinta ... and Earth.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michael James Wilbur
• Release date: Dec 6, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463161739

Michael James Wilbur

I'm an author of light fantasy and science fiction novels, my first being "A Dreamer's Knight"; and my latest being "Wisp - A Scarecrow's Tale". While larger themes may appear in my work, I'm simply out to provide an enjoyable experience to my readers ... and possibly a brief escape from the confines of this reality. I call myself a Dreamer, and while I lack the abilities of the Dreamers of the Elsewhere Incorporate, I do my best to leave things better than I find them, be it at home, at my secondary job, or in the world at large. Don't know if I'm really having an effect on any of those, but to try is the thing as far as I'm concerned. I sincerely hope you enjoy my work, and hope that you'll let me know if you do by writing a review.

Book preview

Prologue

The Best-Laid Plans

Triumvate Darcones Fairchilde stared into the crackling fireplace of his study. The firelight sent shadows dancing across the room, made all the more poignant by the large unmoving shadows cast by his massive scaled wings.

Only a few feet behind the chair stood Liegan Hearcri, leader of the Restored Earth Alliance, or ‘the Revs’ as so many post-Devastation organizations labeled them. The man responsible for the deaths of millions of magi and non-humans in the name of ‘pure’ humanity back on Earth calmly polished his glasses with a white handkerchief as he waited patiently for the Triumvate to speak.

So close, Darcones whispered, his fist clenching the chair’s armrest. He stood, his wings pulling close to his back once clear of the chair.

Any word on the Amplifier? he asked, his back still to Liegan.

Not yet. The True Knight and his friends managed to cause a massive cave-in. My engineers tell me that it’ll be at least a month before we clear out all the crystallic.

No way around?

No. We tried to find a bypass, but it’d take just as long to mine through the rock.

Silence descended between the two for a few moments.

Darcones let out a frustrated sigh. What the hell happened?

Sir?

You know damn well what I’m talking about.

I warned you that the True Knight was-

I’m not talking about Mikaen! I’m talking about you and your Revs! I ordered you to not interfere with Mikaen’s team, yet I’ve received reports of your soldiers openly attacking them!

Liegan finished inspecting his glasses and slipped them over his eyes. I figured that they might be trying to escape. Unfortunately, the True Knight was being assisted by a Dreamer.

Yes, I’ve read the reports, Darcones said grimly. It’s bad enough that you’ve made an enemy out of the True Knight without stirring up the Elsewhere Incorporate against us as well!

I doubt the Elsewhere Incorporate will be much of a hindrance to our plan.

Darcones spun to face Liegan, his eyes blood red as he slammed his hands down on the table, rattling the decorative tea tray resting on the center of the table.

The Kelshira District is in chaos! There are reports of an ancient sailing vessel flying through the biospheres, giant wolves running through the streets, complete anarchy at the Celestial Cathedral, and hundreds of foreign skrievers roaming the entire country! The only thing that these events seem to have in common is the confirmed sighting of several members of the Elsewhere Incorporate that you seem to think aren’t a problem!

The Kelshira District is an unfortunate victim of circumstance, Liegan said. A target for bored Dreamers with different agendas. Trust me when I tell you the Elsewhere is not a threat.

Darcones slammed his fist onto the table again, this time with enough force to make one of the legs collapse. Ignoring the sound of porcelain shattering against the floor, he snarled, Of course the Elsewhere Incorporate is a threat! They are Dreamers! Their power goes beyond magic, beyond any kind of technological barrier we can produce! If they choose to act against us because of your indiscretion-

They won’t, Liegan said, his tone infuriatingly calm to the upset xemptarian. The Elsewhere isn’t as organized as you might think, and they certainly aren’t as unified. Most members haven’t left the safety of the Elsewhere Mansion for decades, including their self-styled leader, Teach. One is the only Dreamer we’re likely to come up against, and it is my believe that he’s been temporarily incapacitated.

This news seemed to mollify Darcones somewhat. What of his partner, Narrator Number Two?

Liegan let out a laugh as he smoothed the collar of his shirt. The only reason Two would even leave the Elsewhere Mansion is to try and avoid exactly the sort of thing you’re worried he might do. Trust me when I say One is the only Dreamer with whom we should be concerned. With him powerless, there is no threat from the Elsewhere.

Darcones looked down at the remains of the table. With a wave of his hand, the leg repaired itself, as did the shattered tea set.

Leaning against the repaired table, he said, You have a surprising insight into the workings of the Elsewhere Incorporate.

Liegan didn’t reply. His eyes were unreadable behind his glasses.

Shaking his head, Darcones snapped his fingers. The holographic fire vanished as the bright fluorescent lights flared to life.

The other Triumvates are insisting I expel the intruders, though perhaps this is for the best. I believe the next piece of the Raenqal is located somewhere in Rimstak, which means we have a considerable amount of ground to cover. Your troops will be accompanied by a large platoon of my best soldiers … to help with the search, of course.

Of course.

This is an espionage mission, not an invasion, Darcones continued, ignoring the faint hint of sarcasm in Liegan’s voice. I advise you to avoid arousing suspicion and open conflicts, as Guildmaster Mschens will not be as forgiving as Cygros Cressia if you pull another stunt like you did with the Breath of Fire. Locate the part of the Raenqal, secure it as quietly as possible, and report back to me. Be cautious; I fully expect Mikaen and his friends to show up.

Really? And why is that?

Because that’s what heroes do, Darcones said with a grim smile. And this time let me be perfectly clear: Neither you nor any of the men or women under your command are to interfere with Mikaen or his team in any way or form. Is that understood?

Does that include the Daughters Myssohn? Liegan asked, raising an eyebrow at the Triumvate.

After a long moment of silence, Darcones said, You have your orders.

Liegan bowed and turned to leave.

Mister Hearcri? Darcones called out as his ‘partner’ opened the door to the office.

Yes?

This incident is a strike against you. Don’t disappoint me again, or you will regret it.

Noted.

Chapter 1

Adrift

Teria poked her head in Glen's room. The young human was still asleep, his weird gauntlets and tek-boots lying in an untidy pile beside his bed.

Grinning, she slowly opened the door just enough for her to slip inside the room and tiptoed over to him. Once she was beside his bed, she leaned forward until her mouth was only a few inches from his ear.

Glen!

Gah!

Glen backpedaled while still half--asleep, running out of bed in the process and hitting the floor with a loud thump. Teria let herself fall on the bed and watched with amusement as Glen untangled himself from the mess of sheets. By the time he freed himself, there was murder in his eyes.

Can't you just knock like a normal person? he demanded.

She gave a carefree shrug. Nah, too boring. Besides, you should feel honored to be awoken by a beautiful lady like me.

Beautiful brat, more like it, Glen muttered, tossing the balled-up bed sheets at her face.

She caught the sheets and managed to deftly flick them over Glen's head. Pulling him close, she said, Oh, stop belly-aching. It's already noon. Besides, I've got you a present.

What is it? he asked cautiously. Teria wasn't surprised; she’d played quite a few tricks on him over the past few months.

After digging in her pockets for a few moments, she produced a silver necklace: a pendant of seven turtles clustered around a green crystal orb.

Glen raised an eyebrow at her. A bit early for that, isn't it?

No, silly! she said, giving him a playful shove. It’s not an engagement pendant! Just a present, that's all.

Uh-huh.

Look, she said, doing her best to sound serious, I know these past few months haven't always been fun, and I might have made things a bit difficult on occasion.

On occasion?

Shut up! she said, punching his shoulder. I'm trying to be serious here.

Sighing, she continued, I just wanted to thank you for hanging around, and to let you know I appreciate your friendship.

She held her breath until Glen let out a sigh of his own. Smiling, he said, It has been fun, hasn't it?

Beaming at him, she said, Yeah! So, I saw this at a shop, and thought it'd make a nice memento.

Glen turned the pendant over in his fingers a few times, a small smile slowly spreading across his face. Thank you, Teria. That's really nice of you.

Well? she asked, trying hard to mask her eagerness. You gonna try it on or not?

Still smiling, Glen slipped the pendant around his neck.

Thank you, Teria, he said, his cheeks slightly red.

No problem, she said with a wide grin. Now dance for me!

Glen’s smile froze as he said to seemingly his own surprise, As you command. Moments later, his legs began to jerk in a somewhat rhythmic pattern.

Teria? he asked as his legs continued to 'dance', his arms following along moments later.

Teria clapped her hands together, laughing as Glen looked increasingly panicked. After a few more moments, she said, Stop!

As you command. Glen's arms and feet stopped moving. Teria, he asked breathlessly, What the hell did you-

I'm hungry, she announced, standing up. Carry me down to the continental breakfast.

As you command. Against his will, Glen moved over to Teria and lifted her as a husband would lift his bride.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a kiss on the cheek as he carried her to the door. I think I'm going to like this.

Glen hardly carried her a dozen feet when his visage suddenly appeared on the wall. The Glen on the wall was different, however; he looked older, and apparently hadn't shaven in a few days.

Glen! Teria said, frowning at the figure. You know I hate it when you look all scruffy. Shave yourself at once!

What? Are you still asleep? C'mon, Teria, we need to get back to work on the engine!

Teria awoke with a start. The first thing she saw was Glen’s face on the wall … or rather, on the viewscreen in her quarters. Glen, or One (short for Narrator Number One) as he was now more famously known, gave her an impatient look as she gathered her senses.

I'm still on the simmersill, she muttered, running a hand through her hair.

Good grief, really? One said, feigning surprise. So that’s where all the water came from.

She groaned and tossed a pillow at her viewscreen. Get out of my room, One.

I’m not in your room, Teria. I’m at engine five, waiting for you.

Engine five?

We’re supposed to be fixing it, remember?

Teria rubbed her head, making her hair even more disheveled. Right … right. I’ll be up there in a sec.

All right. See you soon.

Teria fell back into her bunk as One’s image vanished from the screen, her mind already drifting back into the dream realm.

Ugh, she muttered, trying to find a good position. I bet the floor would be more comfortable.

Teria just started to drift off again when One appeared on her room’s viewscreen. Teria!

Annoyed, she sat bolt upright and snapped, I’m up already!

One blushed and averted his eyes. After a moment, Teria’s gaze fell to the white fur covering her bare chest and stomach, all fully visible to the camera in the wall panel. As she fumbled for her blanket, One said, C’mon, Teria, we’ve almost got this thing running. I can finish the work on the engine on my own, but I’m not as good a weave-navigator as you are.

Teria hopped out of bed and approached the screen, a sheet wrapped around her like a toga. Flatterer.

It’s the truth. Now are you going to get up here, or do I hafta go pick you up?

I’d like to see you try, dream-boy. Teria deactivated the screen, effectively hanging up on him. She glanced at the bed and considered trying to go back to sleep again, but the last vestiges of grogginess were already gone after the sudden shock of exposing herself to One.

Teria let the sheet fall from her body as she walked over to her pack. She considered taking a shower, but decided against it since the salty sea air made her fur feel damp no matter how much she tried to dry off.

Unfortunately, her clothes had the same humid feel to them. Still, she reasoned as she slipped on a pair of blue jean shorts and a burgundy tube-top, They’ll dry up once I’ve been out in the suns for a bit.

Her hand hesitated as her fingers brushed the silver turtles of the same pendant she once gave Glen, the curse long since dispelled. A pang of guilt shot through her, more so than usual after her dream. With a sigh, she slipped the pendant around her neck.

Teria grabbed her interface cable and the improvised cyberdeck she had put together from some minor simmersill subsystems before heading out of her quarters. She generally preferred not to use a cyberdeck when threading the weave, but had found it helpful to have some extra protection when navigating the shambling mess that was the simmersill’s computers.

Teria’s door slid open as she approached, just in time for her to catch a glimpse of Jeronem barreling past her room. Teria poked her head out to call after the young vuestan only to narrowly miss crashing into Jek.

Outta the way, Teria! Jek said, narrowly slipping past her. He continued running after the laughing Jeronem, shouting, Gimmie back my gauntlet, you furry-eared runt!

Gotta catch me first! Jeronem called back.

Teria chuckled and shook her head as both Jeronem and Jek disappeared around the corner. As she started walking toward the deck, a nearby panel activated, showing a worried-looking man with thin brown hair and light blue eyes. He looked Galden, though Teria knew he was in fact human.

Tirinia? he asked nervously.

Wrong tigreth. Tyr’s probably with her knight, Teria told the man on the screen. It's Ben, right? What's up?

O-oh. Well, I don’t want to bother anyone, but … well, I was just wondering if anyone’s checked on that Almaec fellow lately.

Teria wasn’t sure what to say. She hadn’t ventured into the medical bay since the simmersill had ‘crashed’ to the surface. Still, she supposed someone should check on him, and it might as well be her seeing as she recently developed a strong healing talent.

I’ll stop by, she told him."

R-right. I’ll be there in a minute too, j-just to be safe.

Teria wondered about Ben as she walked to the simmersill’s medical bay. According to Mikaen, Ben had been frozen in a massive chunk of crystallic in a Kindred facility hidden beneath Ronisgald. Even more intriguing was the fact they found him wearing clothes from the time of the Mad King Calliban and wielding a pistol of Earth design.

Despite the circumstances of his discovery, Ben struck Teria as being timid to the point of outright fear depending who was around at the time. As One had explained to her the lack of non-humans of Earth in Ben’s time, she supposed this made sense.

As the door to the medical bay opened, a small robot with a vaguely female form and a cute doll-like face greeted her. It, or rather, she wore a pink-accented white nurse's dress. She didn’t have legs beneath the dress, though the fact that she was floating in mid-air indicated some kind of hovering mechanism hidden beneath her skirt. She wasn't very large, being just over three feet tall from the hem of her skirt to the top of her little white hat.

Welcome to the medical bay! the robot said cheerily, her facial movements amazingly lifelike. What seems to be the problem?

Who in Nocturnes are you? Teria asked, staring at the little robot nurse.

The robot folded her tiny hands in front of her dress and bowed politely as she could manage while hovering. My model code is 5U-23T-1E, but my creator called me Suzette.

Teria couldn’t help but smile at the little android. She knew some people feared artificial intelligence, but it was hard to be afraid of something when resisting the urge to pinch her cute little cheek. When did you activate, sweetie?

A young man stumbled upon my system by accident about a week ago, and was kind enough to reactivate me. I believe he said his name was-

One? Teria guessed.

Suzette blinked her solid blue eyes. As a matter of fact, yes. You know him?

Hmm. Sometimes I wonder. Teria shook her head and gestured to the bed where Almaec rested. How’s your patient?

Suzette floated over to the recumbent sentient. He stirred at her approach, his black-feathered wings twitching ever so slightly. She emanated a blue field over him until he settled down.

His injuries were surprisingly minor. I’ve fixed the damage and am keeping him in a dreamless unconscious state as per One’s instructions.

Good thinking, Teria said. Seeing Suzette’s curious gaze, she said, Almaec may be dangerous. We’re still not sure on the details.

One indicated as much. Suzette gazed at the sleeping sentient, her expression sympathetic. I must say, it’s hard to imagine. He seems so peaceful now, doesn’t he?

The door to the medical bay slid open, revealing a worried-looking Benjamin.

He’s okay, Teria called out. Just asleep.

Benjamin seemed relieved, though Suzette’s appearance seemed to make him uncomfortable.

Is it safe? he asked curiously, eyeing Suzette.

Perfectly, Suzette replied, misunderstanding his caution. He’ll sleep until I cease his medication.

Ben, Teria said, gesturing at Suzette. This is Suzette, the simmersill’s auto-doc. One got her up and running.

Suzette gave him a mid-air curtsey. A pleasure to meet you, mister.

He continued to stare at the little robot. She smoothed her dress, looking slightly nervous at Ben’s unabashed attention.

Sighing, Teria said, You’re staring, Ben.

Right, Ben said, his cheeks red. I’m sorry, S-suzette. I’m still getting used to how strange this place is.

The simmersill? Suzette asked politely.

Among other things, he said dourly.

The ship shuddered for a few moments, not enough to make anyone lose their footing but more than enough to get their attention.

What was that?! Ben asked, looking around nervously.

Teria glared at the ceiling. An impatient Dreamer. Look, I’d better get up there before One blows up the engine. Everyone good here?

Suzette bowed respectfully. Of course. Good day, Miss Teria.

Teria left the sick bay and headed for the exit hatch. After a few moments, she realized she was being followed.

Something on your mind, Ben? Teria asked, not stopping.

Well, yes. I was wondering … well, I mean-

Spit it out.

Ben let out a sigh. I overhead Jeronem mentioning that you and One were a thing. I mean, in a relationship.

I get it. Sighing, Teria said. We traveled together for a while the first time he came here, and yes, we were a thing … at least until he ran off to become a Dreamer.

So, you and he talked a lot?

Okay, Teria said, stopping and fixing Ben with an annoyed glare. What are you getting at?

Has he ever mentioned Bridges?

Bridges? Yeah, he mentioned it. He was found there by the Rangers after the Devastation.

And before that?

Teria let out another sigh. Look, if you want to ask him something, just ask him! I’m meeting up with him right now, so feel free to tag along.

Er, okay. Right. I’m sorry I bothered you.

She held him in her gaze for a few more moments before continuing down the corridor. Despite the unusual circumstances surrounding Ben’s origin, he didn’t strike her as the suspicious type. Infringing on annoying maybe, but not suspicious.

The simmersill’s outer hatch was wide open when Teria and Ben arrived. Teria stepped through only to immediately run into Kevin.

Oh! Sorry, big guy. Teria stepped back so that Kevin and his wife Jade could pass.

Null problem, Kevin said cheerily. Me and Jade were just gonna go grab some grub. You hungry?

Nah, Teria replied, Just woke up, and I never have much of an appetite right after getting out of bed. Is One still out there?

The simmersill shuddered again.

I’m guessing yes, Jade replied with a smirk.

Rolling her eyes, Teria exited the simmersill. Vinta’s twin suns hung high in the sky as she walked along the port-side deck. Teria didn’t care much for the heat, but the sunlight did make the dampness in her fur and clothes go away.

There were five ring-shaped decks surrounding the main body of the simmersill: one around the main body, one on the very outside that carried the main engines, and three rings between the other two. The three middle decks held small thrusters designed for maneuvering while underwater. Unfortunately, the thrusters were now hanging a good three feet above the ocean, making them useless for the simmersill’s current predicament.

Teria’s eyes caught a flash of silver as several fish leapt across the walkway, their gleaming bodies shining in the sunlight. Long, slightly blue fins shimmered through the air as the fish glided over the deck and dove back down beneath the waves.

Huh. I’ll have to see if I can’t rig up some kind of fishing pole, Teria commented, the thought of some fresh seafood making her stomach rumble. A ship mostly full of grown adults, and Mikaen was the only one so far who was even half-decent at cooking.

There was no sign of One as Teria and Ben drew near the engine, save for a piece of metal plating lying on the deck. One of the Dreamer’s Headache Units was lying nearby as well, which told Teria she was in the right place.

Yo, One! Teria called out.

One’s head popped through the hole in the engine. Ah, Teria. Glad to see you finally decided to join me. Could you take a look at the ignition subroutines? I can’t fix this damn thing if it spontaneously activates every few minutes.

Teria put her hands on her hips. Good morning, Teria. My, you’re looking lovely today. Did you sleep well?

Sorry. Did you sleep well? he said, scratching his neck with his unarmored right hand. The Anti-ka Maru was visible on the back of his hand where the Anti-ka Maru, the rune of reality, appeared for all intents and purposes to be nothing more than a tattoo.

You kidding? I haven’t had a good night’s sleep since we got stranded. She jerked a thumb back at Ben. Oh, by the way, Ben wanted a word with you.

One peered behind Teria. Apparently not.

Teria turned, only to discover that Ben was nowhere to be seen.

Huh, Teria murmured, her keen eyes sweeping over the decks, I coulda sworn he was right behind me.

She shook her head and turned back to One. So, the ignition subroutines then?

Yup. Make sure to check the secondary nodes for deterioration.

Hey, how about you focus on the hardware and let the hacker deal with the weave?

The engine shuddered again, this time strongly enough to make Teria stumble.

Hey! Teria shot a glare at One.

Oops, One said, not sounding even remotely sincere. Clumsy me.

Teria grabbed a bottle of engine oil One had left on the deck and squirted a stream of the dark liquid on the side of his green and gray-striped shirt.

Hey!

Clumsy me. Chuckling, she sauntered over to the control interface and prepared to interface with the simmersill. She had already had quite enough of the simmersill’s dusty control matrix, and if she could get it working without having to jack-in, all the better. Unfortunately, everything externally seemed fine. With a sigh, she pulled out her interface cable and plugged it into her cyberdeck.

Hey, Teria!

She looked up just in time to catch a burst of cold water in the face.

Aaack! What in the … Glen!

One grinned at her, a small stream of ocean water trickling out of the end of one of his Headache modules.

With surprising speed, she tackled him against the side of the engine. Kicking and laughing, Teria and One fought over the Headache unit with the water, both getting soaked in the process. She had just managed to wrestle the unit from his arm when the intercom on the control panel activated.

One! Teria! Jek’s voice shouted through the intercom, What in Nocturnes is going on over there?

Uh, everything’s fine, Jek. Right Teria?

Yup. Nothing wrong over here. Teria’s eyes flicked over to One. One just grabbed me a little drink, and I wanted to return the favor.

Jek let out an exasperated sigh. As if having to deal with one child wasn’t enough. Do I need to separate you two before you tear the ship apart?

Relax, Jek, One said as he emptied the rest of the water back into the ocean. We’re just having a little break. Engine five should be online in a few minutes.

Good. Let me know when you’re finished.

One clipped the radio back on his belt. That guy’s starting to get on my nerves.

Give him a break. He’s not used to having to tough it out like this, said Teria.

Snorting, One said, Yeah, I guess you’re right. Royalty, huh?

Hey! Teria bristled, I’m royalty!

Phhb. You don’t count.

She aimed a swat at him, but he was already walking back to the damaged engine. She blew a raspberry at him before sitting down and sliding the interface cable into the port in the back of her neck.

The simmersill’s weave was ancient and filled with corrupted paths, glitched segments, and slow data transfer areas. Through the virtual interface, this appeared to Teria as broken segments of deck plating, odd distortions covering patches of the simmersill, and thick web-like growths that made it difficult to navigate. Fortunately, however, the ship was not connected to the planet-wide weave. As such, she was able to ghost the ship’s weave, navigating it without relying on her avatar. In addition to reducing the nasty feeling she received from interfacing with the ancient system, she didn’t have to spend hours cleaning errant bits out of her avatar’s data matrix later.

She waved her hand at the engine, making it grow larger in her eyes. Amid all the parts, she could make out the life signal of One himself, busily working. The temptation to mess with him was strong, but she focused her thoughts instead on the ignition subroutines. She spotted the problem almost immediately; The command pathways now led to dead ends, the signals fading into the mess that was the ship’s weave. It took her less than a minute to reconnect the pathways to their appropriate functions.

All right, she said, It should be ready.

One’s life signs climbed out of the engine. All clear! she heard him call, again, his voice strangely distant.

Teria nodded and activated the ignition system.

Come on, she coaxed as the system moved sluggishly, Start working, you piece of-

The engine flared to life, pulling half of the simmersill down at enough of an angle to send some of One's gear sliding across the deck. The Headache unit One wasn’t using caught most of the loose tools, One apparently having the good sense to magnetize the unit to the hull.

Feeling herself starting to slide, Teria tried to disconnect only to find her egress slowed by the ancient system, now additionally taxed with the operation of the engine. One must have realized her predicament, as Teria felt his arms wrap around her and hold her steady as the engine slowed down to a more normal speed, the thrusters nearest the engine now just barely submerged in the water.

Hah-ah! Teria said as the musty feel of the simmersill’s weave was replaced with the warmth of the suns. She yanked her interface plug out of her datajack before giving One a big hug. We fixed it! It’s working!

Hell yeah, it is! he said with a wide grin, One more engine, and we'll have this tub moving!

Teria, One, report! Is everything okay?

Teria broke away from One and activated the intercom on the side of the engine. Yeah, we’re good. Engine five is good to go!

One sec. The engine shut down and restarted a few times without difficulty. Looks good. One more engine, and we might be able to finally get somewhere, preferably somewhere with decent food.

I hear that. We’re moving to engine three, Teria said as One gathered the tools and supplies that hadn’t fallen into the ocean.

Roger. Check in once you’ve got an estimate.

Hmpf. Teria let out a snort as she stowed her interface cable. We do all the work and he and Mikaen sit on their asses. Yeah, that’s totally fair.

One hefted one of the packs over his shoulder. Mikaen’s still weak from making that portal.

Yeah, right! And the fact that Tirinia’s been hovering over him has nothing to do with it. She snorted again. At this rate, I’m going to be an aunt before we get back to Muonsol.

One chuckled as he picked up the last of his gear. Turning back to Teria, he asked, Well, shall we?

As he started walking across the outer ring of the simmersill toward the next engine, Teria called out, Hang on a sec.

Is everything okay? One asked, his smile fading into a look of concern.

Teria rubbed her neck. I’m feeling a bit numb from the interface. You mind if we hang here for a sec?

Sure thing. One tossed his gear back on the deck and sat down beside Teria. We're due for a break anyway.

They stared up at the twilit sky in silence. Ronisgald had faded from view the previous week as the simmersill had drifted away from the continent, leaving nothing but water as far as their eyes could see.

After a few moments, Teria glanced over at One and asked, Whatcha thinkin’ about?

One chuckled, his cheeks slightly red. I was thinking about what Two said. Y’know, before he stormed off.

Oh, she said, feeling suddenly awkward. I’m sorry.

To her surprise, One laughed. For Two? Don’t be. He’s always been like this.

He came to get you.

Yeah, just so he’d have someone to talk to. He’s not exactly popular among the Dreamers.

Really? she said, surprised.

Let’s just say he has a reputation for being a bit of a jerk. Back when we kept score on assignments, he found a way to cheat the system by performing the last action: pushing the right button, pulling the right lever, that sort of thing. He’d get credit for the whole assignment while some other poor schmuck would get chewed out by Teach for being a layabout.

How often were you the schmuck?

One met her gaze for a moment before chuckling and shaking his head. Most of the time until Teach caught on.

Don’t let what he said get to you, Glen, Teria said, putting her hand on his shoulder. He’s just mad because you’re actually out there making a difference while he screws around.

One cracked a smile. Yeah. I guess you’re right. Still, sometimes I’d really like to throttle the smug bastard.

They both laughed. After a few moments of silence, Teria asked, Why did you do it?

Do what?

You know … giving up your power to save me.

Oh. There was another brief pause before he said, Because you're my friend, Teria. Seeing you lying there, hurt, all I could think about was making it better, making it right. Not just your wounds, but … everything.

Oh?

He let out an embarrassed chuckle. I've been remembering more about the time we spent together. We spent two years wandering around this planet, and the more I think about it, the more I wonder if I made the right choice when I left with Two. I mean, look at all we did when we thought this was just a tattoo.

They gazed at the rune on the back of his right hand for a few moments. Shaking his head, One said, I've done a whole lot of good in the universe as a Dreamer of the Elsewhere, saved a ton of people, brought a bunch together. It’s good work, I know that, but sometimes …

Yes? she pressed, subtly scooting even closer.

One sighed. I miss it just being us wandering around, finding trouble, and making it right. His fingers brushed against hers. Teria’s pulse quickened, but he pulled them away almost instantly, murmuring, Sorry.

After a few moments, Teria put her hand over his.

Glen, she said tentatively, We could do it again. After this stuff with Mikaen and the Revs … I mean, there's plenty of Vinta left. Surely even you haven’t seen it all.

One didn’t respond, though he certainly looked thoughtful. Feeling this was a good sign, Teria pressed on.

I know you and Luck still have a thing, she said, trying to ignore the rapid beating of her heart, And I'm not saying you have to give that up. I mean, unless you want to …

One met her gaze. Realizing how her last words sounded, Teria blushed and turned away. Sorry. I didn’t mean … y’know.

A long uncomfortable period of silence fell between them, right up until each suddenly looked at the other.

I still have feelings-

I can't stop thinking-

Attention stranded craft!

One and Teria jerked away from each other, startled by the sudden communication from Headache's radio receiver.

The voice continued, We are having been monitoring your position happenstance and are perfectly and ably willing to provide assistance. Please proceed to sending your response!

That’s a Rimstakken, or I’m Wong Fo-lee, One said, his brow furrowed as he worked Headache's controls.

Teria nodded in agreement. Definitely. Y’know, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say she sounds like-

I am having repeat: this is the Rimstakken airship Phoenix, having been created and being piloted by Guildchild Forgetit Shae Mschens.

Teria grabbed One's Headache-clad arm and jerked it toward her. Shae! Thank the Creator, it’s me, Teria!

Oh, thanks been having to the Creator of all! I was so completely worried that you were been having been reached your final ending! Who is all being there?

Mikaen and Jeronem of Homestead, Tirinia and me, a handful of Galden and … Teria’s eyes flashed to One, who nodded. … and Narrator Number One.

There was a long pause. Please be repeating: did you indicate the presence of personage Narrator Number One?

Yeah, he’s here with us.

Another long pause passed before Shae asked, Signifying the personage of the Dreamer?

Teria rolled her eyes. No, Narrator Number One the soup cook. What other Narrator Number One is there? Look, how long till you get here, Shae?

We, uh, will been having arrived in a few minutes.

All right. See you when you get here.

As Headache's radio receiver went silent, Teria slapped One on the arm. Race you to the intercom!

They made a mad dash for the nearest intercom station. While the weeks spent working on the simmersill had improved One’s stature, he was still no match for Teria in terms of speed. She easily outpaced One and slammed her hand down on the intercom.

Jek, did you get that? Teria asked.

Get what? Jek’s voice came from the intercom. Look, forget that. I’m reading a massive energy source approaching. Is everything okay? Can you see anything?

I’d say that’s a definite yes, Teria said as her eyes picked out the form of the Phoenix in the distance. You’d better tell everyone to meet up on the deck. We’re about to get rescued.

Chapter 2

Unconventional Circumvention

Two stirred at the constant mumbling that pervaded his dreamless sleep. Somewhere deep in his still-boozed subconscious, he knew that waking up would bring only pain and misery, and he was in no hurry to experience either.

… could be made to …

Perhaps, but I …

The voices grew louder as Two tried to fall back into oblivion.

Interference … too little information …

… can’t just sit here …

He grunted. Part of him wanted to tell the voices to shut up, but that would involve waking up. As though responding to his thoughts, the voices fell silent.

About time, he murmured as he drifted away from the impending headache.

TWO!

Two sat bolt upright in his chair with a yelp, his eyes wide.

Thirteen Dreamers stared back at him from around the table of the Great Hall: Max (the resident tech-head), Alex the Toymaker (who used to live in the Great Hall prior to settling down), Bert and Eddie (the Elsewhere's resident chefs), Naomi (Mom to all and keeper of the Lobby), Teach (the self-styled leader of the Elsewhere), Karma (by far the kindest soul in the Elsewhere), her somewhat less gentle and kind sister Fate (a woman of great strength in both stature and beliefs), Atraius (keeper of the Forest), Wong Fo-lee (the odd duck of the Elsewhere), Jay (resident Elsewhere hippie), Melody (singer, musician, composer, and conductor of the Elsewhere Symphony Orchestra), and of course myself, Alan Tryth, Chronicler of the Elsewhere. Even Jay, the Elsewhere’s resident hippie was there, smoking something that left a big smile on his face much to Karma and Alex's chagrin.

Realization suddenly crept into Two’s mind. Unfortunately, a massive headache took the opportunity to creep in as well. Gaaah!

Teach glared at Two. Finally decided to join us, Two?

Not so loud. Two clutched his throbbing head.

Maybe next time you’ll lay off the paint thinner. Shaking his head, Teach turned back to the group. As I was saying-

How the hell did I get here? Two asked, I mean, my memory’s a bit hazy, but I’m pretty sure I don’t drink in the Great Hall.

I carried you here! Wong said, his screeching voice particularly jarring in Two’s current state. ’Cuz we’re friends!

Two let his head hit the table with a loud thump.

Does anyone else have something to say? Teach looked at the other Dreamers for a moment before nodding. Good. In that case-

Two's head shot up. Wait! Where the hell is One?

Teach frowned at Two. He’s not here. You didn’t bring him back, remember?

I can see that, Two snapped, Why didn’t someone else go get him?

Which brings me back to what I was saying, Teach said, glaring at Two. I’ve placed a guard around-

Where’s Luck?

With a frustrated sigh, Teach tossed his notebook on the table and threw up his hands. Please, by all means, talk amongst yourselves. I’ll wait.

Karma put a hand on her husband’s arm. Honey, please. It’s a good question. When Teach didn’t respond, she turned to Two and said, Luck’s on Vinta. Apparently, she found a way around the guard.

There is no way around the guard, Teach insisted. Guards block all Dreamer abilities including the CPD, and my guard’s covering Vinta completely. She must have managed to slip through before I put up the guard.

Wong poked Two’s shoulder. Two, however, was in no mood to deal with Wong’s foolishness, and ignored him.

And what about Captain Morgan? asked Two. Tell me you didn’t just leave him flying around Ronisgald.

Max shook his head. No, Captain Morgan was here earlier. Said he had to drop something off with that CIC One keeps around.

That CIC has a name, Max. It’s Rebecca. Fate let out a snort. You’d remember that if she was a guy.

What does that have to do with anything? Two demanded, rising to his feet. One’s stuck on Vinta because Teach put up a guard to keep us from helping, and you’re going to argue gender bias?

Children. Mom’s tone may have been soft, but it held the undercurrent of authority that her nickname implied.

Two and Fate exchanged glares across the table before slowly sitting down in perfect unison.

Taking advantage of the lull in the fighting, Teach said, One’s on Vinta, and I don’t want anyone interfering with him or his assignment without my direct supervision.

What’s the matter? Atraius smiled at Teach. Don’t trust us?

This isn’t a matter of trust. What happened to One was the result of the interference of multiple Dreamers.

What are you talking about? Max asked, sounding faintly offended.

Teach took a deep breath and said, Where to begin? First, we have Alex tipping Mikaen off to Angela, distracting him from his portal.

Alex raised his hands defensively. He asked for help, I gave him help. I thought that’s what we did.

Second, Teach said, as though not hearing Alex, We have Captain Morgan, steering the good ship Popehat into the mainstream and creating widespread chaos.

A little chaos is healthy, man, said Jay before taking a pull on his blunt. True order is a hypocrisy! Freedom’s about being free and not restricted by rules!

Spoken like a true hippie, Melody said. Two liked her. She never wore a bra, and often wore form-fitting clothes.

Third, we’ve got Max stealing hunks of crystallic from the mines, leading to a cave-in that brought Mikaen right to the Amplifier.

Max nodded. Luck let me in on the location of a nice deposit with some massive charge. Good thing too; I’m gonna need it for my next project.

Which brings us to Luck, who seems to be deliberately sabotaging everything I’m trying to do. Teach held up a hand as Fate opened her mouth. She’s disabled security, manipulated other Dreamers, and led the Celestial Cathedral in the Kelshira District into a state of complete anarchy.

And she slipped by the guard, said Wong as he continued to poke Two in the arm.

There is no way to get past the guard! Teach said hotly. Karma put her hand on his arm, which seemed to calm him down somewhat.

Bert raised his hand, his skinny partner Eddie doing the same. Uh, Teach? I don't mean to bug you, but well, we’re still working on the Windstar Assignment. Got a big feast we're working on for the new prince when he arrives, and we gotta do it there to avoid any weird questions.

Teach nodded. I’ll lower the guard for you, but keep in mind you won’t be able to come back until I lower it for good.

Bert and Eddie rose from the table. The moment Teach snapped his fingers, the mismatched chefs hurried to the nearest wall and disappeared through a CPD.

As Teach snapped his fingers again, Two complained, Oh, so they get to go but we’ve got to stay here.

It’s nothing personal, Teach said. I just need to make sure there are no more complications. In the meantime, I’ve got other assignments on the board that could-

STOP POKING MY ARM, YOU DEMENTED LITTLE FREAK!

Everyone turned to stare at the increasingly embarrassed Two as Wong began to bawl. Teeeeeeach! Two yelled at me for a legitimate reason!

Teach let his head fall into his hands. Karma rubbed his shoulders, whispering something that Two couldn’t quite catch over Wong’s continued crying.

Melody leaned toward my ear, her hand touching my arm. Alan, sweetie, what do you think?

Patting my wife’s hand, I closed my black leather notebook and rose to my feet, letting out a polite cough to catch everyone’s attention. Teach, if I may?

Not looking up, Teach waved at me to continue.

I stood up and faced my peers, a frightening proposition at the best of times. I understand that we’re all worried about One. I … Wong, please stop crying. As I was saying, I know we’d all like to help him out in any way we can. I know I certainly do. Still, it was because so many of us were trying to assist that this situation has arisen. We aren’t abandoning One. Teach just needs a little time to get a grip on the situation.

I could tell from the other Dreamer’s faces that my little speech had the proper effect. Unfortunately, it didn’t affect everybody.

Forget this, man. Two stood up and started toward the nearest door.

Two! Teach called out, Where are you going?

To the Bar, to get hammered. I trust that doesn’t interfere with your master plan. With a final disgusted snort, he stomped through the door and slammed it behind him.

The gray room behind the door was a completely normal hallway, save for the fact that it was upside-down. Gravity, on the other hand, worked the same.

Two was angry as he edged around a chandelier. He wasn’t angry at me, though at the time, I feared as much. No, the target of his anger was once again Teach.

Stupid moron, Two muttered to himself.

Who?

Two jerked his head around to see Wong’s innocent face. Why are you still here?"

Because that's what it says in the script!

What? Ugh, will you go away already!

But Two, I-

I don’t wanna hear it! Don’t you get it, Wong? I don’t like you!

Wong grinned lopsidedly. You always hurt the ones you love?

Two let out a groan and walked away, hoping in vain that Wong would stop following him.

Come on, Two! Wong pressed, You’d listen to One!

That’s because One’s my friend, even if he did do something mind-numbingly stupid for some girl he claims he doesn’t even care about anymore. You are not my friend.

You’re just saying that because you’re afraid of commitment.

Two spun around. You’re an annoying, screeching, bizarre little twerp who seems to have made it his one mission in life to do everything humanly possible to annoy the hell out of me. We’re not friends, we're not chums, we're not pals. I'm not even comfortable with calling you a casual acquaintance!

Bosom companions?

No! We're not anything, and we're not going to be anything! There’s nothing, absolutely nothing you can say that would make me change my-

I know how to get through the guard.

Two covered the distance between them in a matter of seconds. Really?

Wong beamed at him. See, you do like me!

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Do you really know a way through the guard?

Wong nodded. Yup. Come on!

The two Dreamers rushed through the upside-down corridor into the Workshop, where they hurried to a door beside a