Aurra Part 1 - The Fragmented City

By Ian Dean

Aurra takes the "other, fantastical world" genre in a unique direction—by making this other land the place where everyone on Earth is reborn when they die. But it's far from heaven. An acidic and deadly atmosphere is kept at bay by giant lamps, and people are crammed into only a few dozen dense cities governed by an old, seemingly invincible empire. But Aurrians are also a communal people who can speak telepathically, share stories of past lives, teach the young how to use their ability to control the elements, or even learn the language of animals. Aurra still has the potential to become a great place to spend one half of a full life. After an entire city of millions stops accepting transferred souls, General Rivia assigns twins Garder and Milla Nolland to investigate. It seems like a simple job at first, but as truth and scale are revealed, they soon find themselves in the company of a young man from Earth, a prince of a hidden kingdom, and an insatiable demon able to traverse the two worlds...

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: May 10, 2019
• ISBN: 9780359648504

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Aurra Part 1 - The Fragmented City

Aurra Part 1 – The Fragmented City

Copyright © 2019 Ian Dean

Aurra Part 1 – The Fragmented City

eBook First Edition - 2019

By Ian Dean

ISBN: 978-0-359-64850-4

No part of this book, including its images, may be reproduced without written consent from the author.

This edition published using Lulu.com

Visit www.valice.net for more information on this book and others

- 1 -

Garder and his twin sister Milla rested contentedly at the river’s edge of City N, watching the acidic water sweep through the bubble that their artificial sun produced. Upon leaving the acrid wastes of the outer, each molecule was instantly purified, only to become polluted and lethal again upon exiting the protective dome of light. Just-spawned fish swam in the water, remaining in the livable current for a brief period before venturing away and succumbing to the miserable conditions outside. Above, the dark red sun was at its highest. It was noon, and the stars were barely visible.

Look at the poor things, Garder said as he watched the swarming fish. They just spring up in the water, leave the habitat, then suffer for a few seconds before returning to Earth. What a useless way to spend a life.

To animals, I suppose it doesn’t matter, Milla replied, equally stoic.

Ah… I do sometimes wonder what it’d be like to be an animal. Why is it that we’re not in the same loop with them, anyway?

Scholars tell us that it’s because we are self-aware.

Such blurred terminology. All animals could be self-aware.

Not the way they see it.

Man. Every time I come to Aurra, I never get past City N. Stuck right in the middle. Guess I’m still not good enough to go above. Sorry again for bringing you here. I guess when we’re eighteen, you’ll be moving to any City you’ve been to before, or any that are ranked under yours.

You don’t have to remind me of Aurrian residence codes.

Of course not, but… Well, you’re still planning on going to City B once that happens in a few months, right?

Yes. I’m sorry, Garder. You’re not a bad soul, but I’ve worked hard to get where I am. And for a five-lifer, you’re not doing too badly for yourself. You started off in City U. And N is still a nice place.

Yeah… Guess it could be worse. City N, I mean. Damned laws making siblings stay in the lowest ranked assigned cities of the batch until they reach proper age, am I right?

I got stuck in X for sixteen years three lives ago. Having an ax-murderer sister who killed three people on Earth wasn’t very… fair.

And then you get demoted from City A after your previous life.

I’d rather not discuss that.

I know… sorry. I suppose I should’ve always showed more respect to a twenty-three-lifer, and one who’s even been Queen once.

Forget it. I really don’t like having people kiss my shoes and such.

Anyway. Back onto animals…

Are you really that concerned about them?

Not really. I just wonder sometimes about their version of Hold.

People don’t think they have one.

"I heard. But there is somewhere they go between lives, right?"

Probably. They’re on an auto-cycle, no required rebirth structure like we have. After they finish their Earth life, they just… float around for a bit until Aurra can make room for them. Blue whales, monkeys, centipedes and eagles, all floating in a carefree way, inside of a blank void. Milla cracked a smile at the thought. Wish I could see that sometime.

Uh-oh—is that a grin? I’d better contact the Guard. Obviously, something is wrong with you, and it needs to be rectified.

Relax, Garder. Just because I’ve been around for two thousand years, doesn’t mean I don’t find humor in some things. Sometimes.

Guess you’re at the age where that sense won’t last much longer.

We shouldn’t keep General Rivia waiting.

I hope he actually gives us an assignment, for once. I’ve grown tired of sitting and doing nothing for this Aurrian life.

And how’s your alchemagi coming along this time around?

Not bad. I think I got a better mind for it than last time.

Show me, then. Haven’t seen a sample for a while now.

Garder nodded and raised two fingers on his right hand to his mouth, keeping them each close together. He mumbled a few words through his mind and shot his hand outward. A pillar of ice rose up from the river, taking out a few freshly birthed fish with it and sending them back to Earth. He then released the spell, and the pillar melted instantly.

I’m still not quite used to this body’s biorhythm, but it looks like I’m still decent enough with water and air spells as I was in the academy.

You’ve still got a lot of work to do. I’m a vector, and I can still…

Milla used the same spell as Garder, only her pillar shot up in half the time and became three times as tall. Water and dead fish splashed Garder, whatever river life hitting him disappearing into vapor seconds later.

Stop showing off… Garder mumbled. This is my second time as a watairre. Air and water aren’t as easy to control as dirt or plants.

Now don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re not bad for a beginner.

"I guess. But am I ever going to be anything other than not bad?"

The bell tower, part of City N’s capital building, let out a dull chime; it was half-past noon. The twins ended their conversation, which had been through telepathy, and turned to face the city. Its giant crystal-steel towers rose into sky, most over a mile in height, which would be impressive, had they been built on Earth. In the city’s center stood a lumbering spire with a vibrant artificial sun atop—usually too bright to look at directly.

The twins checked the swords they carried under their uniforms and began the trek to the military council building. It was a long walk, and on the way, they passed the alchemagi academy. Its kids were out on the lawn, practicing the art. It was obvious who was a first-lifer and who had ‘broken in’ their new body just from the bursts of light and energy each created.

On the building’s roof, a hawk, a pelican, and a dove materialized above an animal spawning platform and flapped about in a brief daze before taking to the air. They’d likely fly into the outer a few minutes later, where they’d die and be in fertilized Earth eggs again within an hour or so.

At the city’s main forum, crowds of people were gathered and conversing, collecting their daily meals or often monthly material items, shooing away the rodents coming into existence near their feet as they bustled about. Garder hated crowds—always had, in every lifetime.

Above, the bubble grimaced in pain against the pounding amber haze outside. Garder couldn’t remember seeing Aurra in a worse condition than it was presently in. He had last left for Earth in a world that didn’t seem too bad—to him, at least, so why did it feel like Aurra was on the verge of collapse? Or maybe he had just forgotten its healthier state.

World’s not looking too great these days, Garder said aloud, as any telepathy would’ve been drowned out by the city bustle.

Should’ve been here during the Black Death. Couldn’t see anything outside. They suspended travel for a few of the worst months.

Glad I wasn’t around back then. Worst I’ve seen it was during the Second World War, as a kid. Rivia didn’t say what this was about, did he?

No. He’s an old soul though, and this is his third time with the job. I trust in whatever first assignment he’s about to give us.

Garder wiped his forehead with his scarf. It was a hot day for what was geographically the Aurrian version of Dublin. There were dark storm clouds overhead, but that wasn’t uncommon; actual rain was.

The twins arrived at the military council, a compound about the size of the Taj Mahal and similar in appearance, its structure completely hidden among the towering skyscrapers around it. The two were quickly checked out by the guards and passed through the high-security fence.

The mall in front was adorned with large sculptures of past military leaders who had operated both in City N and Earth’s United Kingdom.

Next were the halls, where they made subtle telepathic comments to one another about the current state and style of the building. It was also a busy place, with members of the lower Aurrian Guard darting about while observers discussed the day’s newborns and the souls arriving with them.

A few floors up, they entered Rivia’s office. The fireplace was going despite the warm weather, and it looked like he had been reading. Stacks of books were sprawled out, borrowed from the building’s large library. Sitting passively on the marble floor by his desk was one of his Great Danes.

Come in, please. Shut the door, Rivia greeted them.

Milla closed the heavy wooden door and took a seat next to her brother in front of the old general. He stroked his small gray beard a few times as he collected his thoughts. Garder had never met the soul, but from what Milla had told him, Rivia always got straight to the point.

He seems troubled today. Not often that he’s like this, Milla whispered into Garder’s mind.

They remained seated and unmoving for a few minutes. Rivia got up twice, let out several sighs, patted his acquired dog, then finally straightened himself and cuffed his hands on the table.

If you two don’t feel like betraying the upper Aurrian Guard, leave now, he began in a gruff tone of voice.

S-sir? Milla replied.

I didn’t want to get anyone else involved in this… I can’t say much more until I get your vows on this assignment.

Betraying the Guard isn’t… something to take lightly, Garder said.

No. It isn’t. But I would consider it beyond their reasoning. They have failed to act or even accept what I’m about to tell you. The assignment I’m about to give you would go against the Guard, but not Aurra.

Why did you choose us, then? Milla asked.

You have no allegiances. Milla, you’re a good soldier, and one with no vows to anyone except for yourself. Throughout all your lifetimes here, you only accepted assignments you saw as rational and altruistic. And as for Garder… he may be young, but he shows the same promise, as well.

Even so, I’ve never sworn off my allegiance to the Guard entirely.

I know, but something has gone askew… Rivia sighed and rubbed his forehead. Something is wrong with our system. This is the first time, in all of our existence, that there has been a problem like this. That’s all I can tell you, so just think about that for a moment.

A problem with the system? How can that be possible? It’s unheard of. It may be a little oppressive, but the system itself is technically perfect.

It should be perfect, at least before politics become involved.

And you want us to figure out what’s wrong with it?

Yes.

You have my vow, Garder announced suddenly. I trust you, sir.

Milla added, As do I. But Rivia, if you’re wrong about this…

I will be sent to prison for the rest of my life—tortured weekly, I’m sure, to ‘purify’ my corrupt soul. That’s what I’m willing to risk.

So, tell us… What is wrong with the system?

The Guard will never admit it. Listen closely… He swiveled to the left in his leather chair. Our suns’ power is weakening for reasons we can’t explain. Our population is at its limits. Our surrogates can’t keep up with the transfers… You two were wild transfers this time around, correct?

Yes, Milla replied. Our parents were both universally younger than us, as well. But the population has always been at maximum capacity, and we’ve never had a problem before.

Something different is transpiring. Delays in Hold have gone past a year in length—that’s a four-fold increase in a decade. I’ve heard they sped up the judgment process, but it’s not enough to relieve the overcrowding.

An entire year in Hold? Damn… I thought that one layover I had at Newark was bad, Garder commented.

This is no laughing matter, Mr. Nolland. Hold has been so overwhelmed with, well, overflow, that they might be…

They what? Milla asked, a slight worrying in her voice.

These are only rumors. I’ve heard they’re turning people around—sending them straight back to be reborn on Earth.

What?! the twins exclaimed in disbelief.

That—that’s sick! That’s completely unnatural! That’s… Wait, how can that even be possible? Milla wondered.

Is that the part that the Guard is trying to keep a secret?

A small part. We think we may have the cause, or at least one of the causes for the overflow. We’ve had no contact with City C for two years. Something must’ve happened there, or they’re… up to something unseen. The city’s one of the largest in Aurra, making it very important.

Over ten-thousand transfers a day, Garder said.

Yes. But City C is surrounded by the southern wastes, cutting it off from the others almost completely. The fact that it exists where the Sahara does on Earth makes it almost completely inaccessible.

But… what are the effects of a… a half-life?

We don’t know yet. With any luck, you may find out.

What do you mean? Milla asked. Are you saying that this assignment is to take place… on Earth?

Yes…

But, General… Garder spoke up. You know what they say about dying in the world you’re not supposed to be currently residing in.

You disappear, Milla answered. You don’t return. They say your soul is lost forever. Not that I’m suddenly worried about dying, but…

Nothing has ever been proven, Rivia explained. The Guard only says such a thing to prevent people from trying to go back and visiting their loved ones. The fear of truly vanishing after death—something many of us fear on Earth, is enough for most people. It keeps all but a few elite Aurrian soldiers here, where they belong. But we do have four dimensional portals remaining, and each is functioning.

If that’s the assignment, we’ll take it, Garder said. We’ll just… have to be extra careful, I suppose.

Yes, that’s the assignment, but it’s not from me.

Hm?

The Guard is sending other knights and alchemagists, as well. They want to find out what’s happened to City C, but the difference here is that I’m telling you why—the purpose behind these investigations. You two are exploring the same thing, but as… Let’s call you independent sleuths.

So… Milla cleared her throat. Get inside City C by finding the portal in the Saharan desert, find out what happened, and report back—that’s the mission summary. Is there no other way to enter the city?

The southern wastes have bizarre storm activity, which we can’t fly into, and it’s surrounded by miles of jagged mountain. Hence the portal in the Sahara, built for exactly this purpose—an alternate method of entrance. But remember something. You’re not officially on assignment. If the Guard gets a read on you, they might attack without warning.

Garder gulped lightly. We’re not entirely alone on this, are we?

No. I’ve chosen two others to accompany you. An animalect and a very talented alchemagist with level-three capabilities.

An animalect? Milla questioned. Why would we need one of those on this assignment?

Someone who can speak to and command animals would benefit you more than you may think, especially for a small group trying to keep their heads down. The Guard barely uses them anymore, and they’ve become so rare that few would expect your group to have one.

I see. I hope you’re right. When do we leave?

First thing in the morning. Be at the west gate. A carriage will be waiting for you, operated by one of my bodyguards. And take these…

Rivia pulled out two small keys and handed one to each of the twins.

And these are for…? Garder asked.

Inside the Bank of England, there are two safety deposit boxes that this City’s military checks on once every ten years or so. All of the money in it is for you to use, but know that you won’t be getting anymore, so spend it wisely. Money isn’t the easiest thing to get ahold of when we visit Earth.

Right, understood, Milla said as she pocketed the small key.

I trust your judgment in how to best complete the task. Dismissed.

The twins stood, offered small bows, and then headed out towards their apartment for the duration of the day to prepare for tomorrow.

Their parents had both gone back to Earth after an accident when they were very young Aurrians, so they had the rather large apartment to themselves, though they spent little time in it. That wasn’t uncommon, though; most Aurrians had no parents and were taken care of en masse until they were three or so and recovered their Earth memories. Life on Aurra was typically more outgoing and communal as a whole, as no television or worldwide computer networks existed.

He certainly has faith in us, but I’ve never received an assignment anywhere near this sort of thing, Garder mumbled as the two sat at either end of the glass table for dinner.

I’ve been sent to Earth a few times, but only for observational purposes, Milla replied, taking a sip of her wine.

Do we really… disappear if we die in the wrong world?

Don’t know. That’s what the Guard warns us of, though.

Right… Between that and the suicide inhibition, it’s little wonder some call Aurra purgatory or hell.

I’ve gotten used to it. I’d rather live another life on Earth right away, but there are some things of great beauty here.

Maybe it’s like the Buddhists say, and we merely break out of the circle when, or if we disappear? Like transcending and reaching nirvana?

That’s still not quite how it goes, Milla replied and wiped the sauce off her mouth. Next time you’re on Earth, try a few Eastern religions.

Yeah, right… I’ll ‘remember’ that… Garder laughed lightly.

If you embed it now, you might be reborn with it in mind. They provide a good mindset, since they fit in very well with the Earth to Aurra cycle. But every religion says something. I know we aren’t all that religious ourselves, but still, expanding your worldview is always a good thing.

So… Rivia said we’re getting an alchemagist, huh…

Yes. Level-three spells are always nice to have access to.

All right, but how effective would they even be on Earth with the physical-mental ratio shift, especially in the middle of a hot desert?

Effective enough—if he’s truly skilled, at least.

Aren’t you concerned about betraying the Guard, Milla?

Yes. Of course. I ruled over them once. But I trust Rivia. Aren’t you nervous? You accepted the mission before I did.

Kind of… I guess I just got a little excited, to finally do something.

Well, it doesn’t really matter how you feel now. Rivia sounded like he’s counting on us. C’mon, then—help with the dishes and then get some sleep. You’ll need it.

Right… Garder sighed.

Within five minutes, the table was cleared and the metallic plates stacked. The twins split off to their separate bedrooms, each reading for a bit before settling in for the night.

Outside of their windows was the landscape of City N. A half-mile below rested the busy streets of the compacted metropolis, animals coming to life and wandering off in a continuous cycle. Each was a tiny sampling of the everlasting circle of life and death; Earth and Aurra.

Of City N’s many lights that stayed on during its dark, long nights, the light that came from Rivia’s office was often the dimmest, usually nothing more than what came from the fireplace and perhaps the single lamp on his ornate wooden desk. Tonight, like most nights, he was up late. But instead of scouring his books as usual, he had another guest.

What if they chicken out? the man a few years Rivia’s junior asked. I wouldn’t blame them. You gotta be crazy to go against the Guard.

They won’t. I have faith in them, Rivia replied as he looked out of his window. And you should too, my old friend. The next generation is always capable of far more than we usually give them credit for.

The man’s lighter illuminated a patch on his brown jacket for a moment as he lit a cigarette. He took a puff and looked around.

She might want an audience with one of the kids, you know. If she’s caught wind of this already—and I suspect she has—she may send one of her soldiers after them. The boy, most likely. You know what that means.

I’m sorry. It’s hard enough getting a message to her. There simply wasn’t time… We had to get moving right away.

I don’t think telling her would’ve changed anything, the man said with a small chuckle. You know as well as I do how she can be.

In any case, regardless of what happens to them, and in turn us… It was good to see you again after so long. Will you be leaving N tomorrow?

Right now, I’m afraid. I’ve got a long, overnight journey home.

Take care out in the wastes, my friend.

Sure. It’s kinder than the bureaucrats you’ve cozied up with, the man jested, gave the general’s dogs pats on the head, and left the room.

Alone again, Rivia returned to pondering what he had just began.

- 2 -

The ever dying, dark red sun was just beginning to rise above the horizon. Milla and Garder waited at the quiet western gate of the city, as the carriage’s old sunlamp was malfunctioning and causing a delay in their departure. Rivia’s bodyguard was working quickly to fix it and ensure that it would remain active—if it failed during the lengthy journey to the portal, everyone onboard would succumb to the haze within seconds.

That must be our team. Milla pointed towards a pair of figures coming down the stone street. Odd… one of them is a child.

The two appeared from the fog and looked over the twins. The man who was clearly the alchemagist was tall, slender, and dressed in a red robe. The large collar around his neck and his black glass goggles hid his lower face and eyes. It was a typical appearance for one in his specialization.

The child was a vast opposite. Her appearance was that of a small Asian girl with short, black hair and somewhat chubby cheeks. She had on a patterned shirt that was one size too large for her, and under it was a pair of blue, airy pants. She looked up, sniffled, and wiped her nose with a finger.

Um… You’re our animalect? Garder asked.

That’s me, she replied with a tepid smile.

Rivia didn’t mention your age… You’re, like, a kid?

Garder… Milla whispered in his mind.

I’m the only one in this City, so you don’t have a choice, Mister.

Mister? H-how old are you, anyway? What’s your name?

You know, Mister, you should really introduce yourself before asking someone their name.

Yeah? Well, look, I wasn’t really expecting to take care of a child on this expedition, so I’d appreciate a little respect.

Why should I respect you? Rivia said you were only a five-lifer.

"What do you mean only, you little brat?"

"I’m an eleven—idiot."

Ugh… Garder moaned and took a step back. Wonderful… I can see that this is going to be a splendid little adventure.

Garder, relax, would you? Milla sighed. Hi, you two. My name this time around is Milla Nolland. And this is my brother, Garder.

Yes… we know who you are, the alchemagist replied in a deep, almost sickly voice. Rivia explained everything. Personally, I have no qualms with acting against the Guard, and they do not frighten me. My name is Jeryn Klowsk. The first half of this life’s youth was spent in the coldest parts of Siberia, and the isolation affected me… and I apologize if I come off as a little strange, as I haven’t quite shrugged it off yet.

No stranger than this one, I’d bet, Garder said, eyeing the child.

Also, you might be interested to know that I’m a thirty. My true age is three thousand, one hundred, twenty-six. Yes, I ran the math.

Thirty lives? Tch…

Impressive, Milla said. I look forward to working with someone so experienced.

Same goes for me. Thank you, Milla.

That makes you the youngest… Our little baby, the child joked and chuckled at Garder.

"The hell’s wrong with you? Did you spend all of your lives as a nine-year-old girl or something?"

Garder! Milla snapped. This isn’t the way to start a relationship. Grow up. Sheesh, you’re way too fixated on that number of lives thing.

"Fine. Whatever… But she made it into a thing."

My name’s Lechi Dachel, the girl introduced herself. I’ve been an animalect since my sixth life, retrained every time, saw… the art nearly die off. I hope that I can be of assistance to you.

Nice to meet you, Lechi, Milla said kindly. You do seem very childlike, I must admit. I’m curious about your past lives.

Since you’re nice to me, I’ll tell you: I’ve become an old lady all eleven times. And no, I’ve never been born a boy, either.

That explains your behavior, then. I’m sure all of your husbands just adored you, Garder laughed lightly. "Can you actually talk to animals?"

Well, I’m talking to a stupid, ugly monkey right now, aren’t I?

Milla barely reacted in time to block Garder’s attempted move at Lechi, who was now sticking her tongue out at him. Garder struggled to get past Milla’s grip, but she held on tightly until he finally calmed down again.

Honestly, Garder… Milla groaned. You still have way too much hotshot, tough guy blood in you. It’s no wonder you’ve died in two Earth motorcycle accidents in a row.

What? That has nothing to do with it. I don’t like children—especially nasty, spiteful children like this one.

You’ve never had one, have you?

Nope. And I’m hoping to keep that record going.

The small sun on the carriage came to life—but as soon as the operator smiled at his work, it flickered and died again.

Sorry, sorry… he sighed. I swear I’ll get it, don’t you worry. Just a small wiring glitch, that’s all. It’s an old one. Needs a feed oscillator.

Well, we might as well use this time to get to know each other a bit… Milla suggested. What are your alignments?

Fire, Jeryn replied. But I’m proficient in all alignments, able to do level three techniques on each. Assuming my body allows the exclusives.

Good, good. You must be very talented. I’m a vector, and Garder’s a watairre. We’re both knights and cleared for level two.

Iron here, Lechi piped. But I’m not great at alchemagi, so don’t expect much from me.

That’s a relief, Garder snickered with crossed arms.

Lechi growled, then lifted her index finger and twirled it. A small, metal pick formed in the air in front of her, which she flung at Garder. He caught it with a folded palm just before it struck his knee.

Nice try, he grumbled and snapped the pick in half, evaporating it.

Jeryn sighed and raised three fingers to his lips. He muttered the correct words in his mind, and then aimed his hand at a desolate hill just outside of the City bubble. A fireball formed above it that moments later slammed into the top of the hill, where it erupted into a pillar of flame. Even with little oxygen to feed off of, it burned intensely for a few seconds.

Wow. You’re really good! Lechi said with a smile.

I’ve seen better… Garder whispered to a now agitated Milla.

Got it! It’s working again, you four—we can get a move on now, the bodyguard announced and wiped his face.

You’re sure this time, right? I don’t want to dissolve out there.

It’s working, it’s working. I’ve fixed suns hundreds of times.

Guess we should get a move on, then. Ladies first, Jeryn said to Lechi and Milla after opening the carriage door for them.

The two slipped in and sat side by side. Garder made sure the door was securely locked before settling in himself. It was a long ride to the Stonehenge portal—about five hours at maximum speed. Most of the landscape on the way there was flat, but there were a few deep, wide fissures that had to be crossed by bridge.

Everyone hesitated for a moment as the carriage left the City’s protective canopy. Fortunately, the tiny sun on the transport was in full working condition and formed a small sphere around the vehicle. Garder adjusted his space and shrunk into the corner as far as he could go, where he tried to keep his eyes off Lechi as much as possible.

Once N was out of view, Jeryn took out a heavy tome from his pack for some reading. Garder brought out his sketchbook and scratched in it, but making anything look decent was difficult with the rugged, bumpy dirt road below. After an hour, Milla took out her own and two graphite sticks.

Lechi, do you know how to play games with just paper and a pencil? she asked.

Using alchemagi? Never done it before.

It’s a popular activity in City E. At least, that’s where I learned about it. Here, we just make some marks, and then we can move them all over the page with a little iron alchemagi.

Really? I never thought about doing that.

Here, watch.

Milla drew a crude chessboard and a few pieces. With her index finger, she recited a basic movement incantation, which let her glide the pieces about the page without touching it.

Wow, that’s really neat.

It’s just moving the little particles across the paper. You can pretty much do anything you want.

You’re pretty cool, Milla. Let me try.

Lechi scribbled a few lines, concentrated, and then twirled her finger about to make the graphite dance across the parchment. Garder watched, then laughed quietly before using his own alchemagi to hijack Lechi’s lines, which he used to quickly form a small, insulting caricature of her.

Hey! You jerk!

Garder didn’t feel like wasting any more time trying to anger her, so he quickly released his grip and returned the drawing to its former state.

You’ll have to forgive him… Milla murmured to Lechi. He’s always been like that. Probably in every life.

Heard that you guys were wild transfers? Jeryn suddenly asked.

Y-yes, why?

Surrogate here, Lechi added.

No reason. I was just curious—just something I ask people.

And no one minds? Garder asked passively.

Typically, no. Personally, I don’t know where I came from this time in Aurra. I’m not sure where I was born, and my records have gaps.

You’re kidding! That’s like, really rare, isn’t it? Lechi asked.

Yes. I was considered a threat once others found out.

I’ve heard stories like that, Garder replied, slightly interested. So, you didn’t pop out in your assigned City? How did the Guard treat you?

I’d rather not say. But whenever I go on assignments, I tell my peers—just so they know ahead of time.

Aw… Lechi fell back into her seat. That’s okay, I guess… but I did want to know. I mean, they had no idea where you came from… and that’s just, I don’t know, weird to think about.

My Earth birthplaces are no mystery. I’ve spent half of my lifetimes in Eastern Europe or Russia—one of those during the Cold War.

Ah, that must’ve hardened you, Garder replied.

Yes, I suppose you could say that.

Milla spent her first life as a Roman slave, but worked her way up until she was the Aurrian queen three lives ago.

She shot Garder a look, but quickly turned stoic again. She was used to her brother telling others about her lives, and she often accepted it since she could tell that he was proud of her—even though he’d never admit it.

Queen… Queen… Jeryn concentrated. You must’ve been Queen Seriph, right? Ruled from 1765 to 1798. You helped stop the Z Uprising. You’ve just moved up a notch in my book, Milla. Impressive.

Thank you, Milla said with a small smile. I assure you though, my Earth lives have been less impressive.

Jeryn, why tell us such a thing about yourself again? Garder asked.

It’s just something I tell comrades, er, friends. I read their reactions, and I get a good idea of their entire personalities and what they’ll be like.

"You really are a bit of a strange one," Garder said with a yawn. Milla shot him another look, but Jeryn didn’t seem a bit offended.

Yes, I get that sometimes.

Hey! Lechi noticed something out of the window. Look, look! It’s an animal farm! A big one!

Yeah? So? Never seen one before? Garder wondered.

"Well, of course I’ve seen them, but I just like watching the animals come out. I do talk to them."

Garder and Milla looked out of the window. Past a few rolling hills, two artificial suns lit a flat plain about two miles long. Animals big and small, belonging to the land and air, were appearing within it to exist only briefly before returning to Earth. Few ever remained past a couple of days. The farm, specifically designed to attract animal transfers, was constantly busy with a montage of mammals and insects alike.

It’s depressing, really… Milla sighed. Animals existed before humans. Aurra existed before animals. We engineered the bigger suns before recorded history. So, it’s only obvious that Aurra wasn’t always like this—it was survivable once.

Only a theory, Jeryn replied, looking up from his book. For all we know, it’s always been like this. Even the best recollection from ancients has failed to prove who made the first suns for certain.

Everyone went quiet as the small transport crossed one of the long, sturdy metal bridges that offered passage over one of Aurra’s deep chasms. Once on the other side, Milla spoke up again.

So… I suppose we’re going to have to go to London and borrow some money at the bank. I don’t know a lot about Northern Africa, so I’m not sure of the best way to get to C’s portal in the middle of the Sahara.

We’ll fly to Algiers and rent a charter plane, Jeryn explained.

Can you fly?

One of the reasons Rivia chose me. I had a license in my past life.

But how would we get a plane if that’s no good to you now?

I wouldn’t worry about that, Milla. We have money, and we can do things people on Earth cannot. Even with its physical shift, I should remain quite adept in alchemagi. I’m sure I’ll work out something with that alone.

I think Jeryn should be this group’s leader, Lechi suggested.

Yes, he certainly knows what he’s doing, Milla replied.

Fine, Garder muttered. Better than taking orders from a kid.

Very well, then, Jeryn said and went back to his book.

The carriage eventually stopped at a large, metal dome surrounded by a sun bubble just a bit larger than the structure it covered. In the distance, the lights of City D were just barely recognizable. Worn lettering on the top of the dome read, Stonehenge Portal — No Trespassing. Access Permission Given Only By Aurrian Guard.

Rivia’s bodyguard pulled into a parking space and hopped out from the front. He opened the side door and allowed everyone to stretch for a few minutes before explaining the procedure.

Who among you has done this before? he asked.

I have a few times, Jeryn replied. But never at this portal.

It’s a tourist place on the other side, so don’t hang around out there for too long or security guys could be a problem. It’ll be… he checked his watch, very early morning when you arrive there.

He fumbled about in his pockets before pulling out an old brass key for the front door. He opened it and flicked the lights on before the rest of the group followed him in. The portal hadn’t been used for a while, and several layers of dust had collected on the metal floors and walls.

The bodyguard made sure that the door behind them was securely shut and locked before proceeding to the next room, where the large interdimensional portal device resided.

Let’s see. He went up to the operator’s booth. It takes five at a time, and then needs to recharge for a few minutes. You may experience some brief discomfort. If symptoms persist, it is recommended that you…

Never mind all of that, Garder interrupted. Just open it already.

Okay, okay. Ah, here…

He pulled out four small jeweled medals with pointed ends and handed them to each of the travelers, who pocketed the devices securely.

These are your keys. To get back, stand in the place where you arrived and hold the key out. After a few seconds, the return process will start automatically. Of course, it’ll only work if the portal is still running. I’ll put on an auto-cycle, so that it’ll run for ten minutes at midnight every night. Don’t forget, or coming back will be a little difficult.

The bodyguard activated the machine’s systems, lowering a set of rings down to the central stage. The inner ring began moving first, the next one following soon after. A ball of energy started to form in the middle as the system of halos twirled faster and faster.

Remember that you guys are going back to Earth in Aurrian bodies. You may want to change your looks and general behavior.

Yeah, we got it, Garder replied. I was good at being an Earthen.

Wait—hear that? Jeryn questioned.

Hear what? Only thing I hear is the portal firing up.

There’s an airship above us.

Crap, have we been followed?

It sounds like Aurrian Guard airship engines.

The Guard? Is it backup, maybe? Milla wondered.

Not a chance. They’re here to kill us.

What?! Garder shouted.

We aren’t supposed to be on this assignment given the knowledge we possess concerning City C. Someone found out about our group. Rivia has probably been captured or is on the run.

Damn it, I don’t believe this—we haven’t even done anything yet. Everyone, cover the door! Lechi, get back!

Garder, Jeryn, are you sure? she asked.

You’d better hide, Lechi, Milla replied as she took out her sword.

Garder unhooked the long sword at his side, and Jeryn prepared to use his alchemagi. The three stood in defensive stances as Lechi sought cover behind their escort. For another minute, there was only stillness amongst the portal’s reverberations.

Then the heavy doors at the end of the hall burst open with such intensity that the window glass of each shattered. Bursts of alchemagi of all elements hit each other immediately inside the hall, and smoke quickly filled the area. Garder, Milla and Jeryn leapt back and separated.

This is the Aurrian Guard! Cease using alchemagi and come out at once—you are all under arrest!

Great, Garder mumbled. Us against the Guard.

Doesn’t matter who it is, Jeryn replied. Don’t hold back.

A flurry of heavy iron homing arrows flew through the thick smoke, each locking onto someone and turning as soon as they entered the room. Jeryn summoned up a quick spell and shot his arms forward. 

A wall of protective fire sprung up, encircling everyone in the room. The fire was contained, but so hot that the iron was rendered molten upon passing through, destroying the tracking devices inside. The arrows fell to the floor a few feet further in. Jeryn dropped the wall and shot back with a fireball, which was put out by a pillar of water coming from the Guard.

Four soldiers piled in and took aim with their bows. Before they fired, Garder hit the floor with his palm. A wave of ice spread out from each finger, then sprung up and sent the soldiers flying back into the hall.

They’re good, Garder noted. Just keep them away until the portal is warmed up, and then we’ll get out of here.

The block of ice was broken a moment later by a strong blow from an iron ball. The ball rolled into the room, where it exploded into ricocheting shrap-spheres. The dozen or so spheres missed everyone the first time, but then bounced off of the walls for another go at it.

Milla summoned vector lines and carefully guided each one into the deadly orbs, cutting them in half with elegant precision. She then guided the lines to form a mandala shape covering the door.

Come another step forward, and I can promise you’ll risk getting yourselves cut to pieces! she called out.

There was no response from inside the hall. Another minute passed with everyone still on guard. Then, the smoke cleared. Two alchemagists stood side by side, their faces covered in Guard uniform. One of them raised a hand, concentrated for a moment, and then instantly overpowered Milla’s control. The bright blue vector lines scattered and tore backwards, nicking Jeryn’s right arm in the process.

The atom-thin streams bolted through the room, damaging several pieces of machinery—but missing the portal rings themselves.

They hit the stabilizers! their escort called out. The machine can’t control the energy levels anymore! The whole thing could explode!

How’s the portal? Garder shouted back.

It’s just about ready. Get through it as soon as you can!

The two alchemagists each brought three fingers up to their heads to prepare for a strong assault. Lechi was the first to react, summoning several of her metal picks and sending them across the room. Surprised to see the needles coming, the alchemagists barely had time to dodge them, and each took several hits on various pressure points, stunning them momentarily.

It’s done! Get out of here!

The portal had ripped open a shivering globe of white. Stonehenge was on the other side as a waving, translucent silhouette. Jeryn created another wall of fire to cover the door before jumping in first, with the twins quickly following.

As the soldiers of the Guard worked to extinguish the flames, Lechi pulled on the bodyguard’s arm before going in.

Forget about me, he said.

No way! It takes five—there’s no reason for you not to come!

Look, the explosion from this thing will probably kill me, and I’m fine with that. I don’t want to go to Earth and maybe vanish forever.

Don’t be such a coward! Come on!

But—

Lechi summoned up some additional strength and practically kicked the bodyguard through the portal before hopping through it herself.

Just before the white globe shrunk back into nothing, the group got a look at the compound, which was shaking violently and about to blow up from the inside out. They watched as the Guard struggled to get out before it did so, and then the portal closed completely.

The twins, Jeryn, Lechi and Rivia’s bodyguard then found themselves standing in the middle of Stonehenge, the quietness of the early morning instantly replacing the shouts and bursts from the other side. They were on Earth again, and didn’t even have to be reborn to make the trip.

- 3 -

The short boy with the perpetual smile, the deep, sharp eyes, the single pointed tooth that poked out from his mouth, and the scrappy dirty blond hair scrunched down and observed the surroundings of the damaged portal compound. Amid the smell of ozone, the walls had been scorched, the device itself torn apart, and the roof supports were buckling.

Ouch. Poor little machine… he said in a plain voice. Will take at least a month to fix, yeah. And a month is time we do not have, nope.

He stood up, the soldier behind him taking a step back to ensure he wouldn’t get cut by the large, forward-facing blade strapped to the boy’s back. That sword. It just clung there, like a constant threat. Sitting between three pairs of magnetic bracers. A second spine. The boy’s posture and composition made him akin to a caveman with a blunt club. Wild and easy to provoke, almost primal in instinct. But he was dressed well, and he was supposedly one of the best assassins around—even