Out of Control

By Michael James Wilbur

Still mourning the loss of their dear friend, Mikaen's team returns to Rimstak. Their goals: find the Controller, discover the Truth about the Raenqal, and foil the plans of Liegan and the Revs.

Meanwhile, Narrator Number Two is hot (well, lukewarm) on the trail of discovering the true identity of Liegan. With the aid of a maddening Dreamer and a member of the Rimstak Security Force's finest, he won't stop until he finds out which of the Elsewhere Dreamers, past or present, is responsible for messing with his best friend.

A shaken One continues to try his best to help his friends, but will it be enough to make a difference with everything going out of control?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michael James Wilbur
• Release date: Nov 5, 2021
• ISBN: 9780463355824

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

Chapter 1

On the Ropes

Teach sat in front of the Library's fireplace, his mind lost within the pages of the leatherbound tome resting on his lap. While a fireplace may seem an odd fixture for any library, there are three reasons it isn’t a fire hazard: there were no bookcases within fifteen feet of the fireplace, the books of the Library are sapient enough to avoid extreme heat and cold, and the fire itself was only a hologram.

Teach’s younger days were a mystery to most of the Elsewhere, but over time he’d let enough slip to reveal that he’d seen considerable action. Perhaps this is why these moments of solitude were precious to him, so much so that he would seal the entrances to his floor from everyone but his wife Karma, including the ability to select his floor while using Mom’s lift. This is probably why he was so surprised when Two snatched the book out of his hands and threw it to Wong, who promptly turned it into a cupcake and ate it.

Hey, Teach said, standing up. That was an exquisite tale of action and romance!

I dunno, said Wong, pausing to let out a belch. I've tasted better.

Two and Wong grabbed Teach by his arms and lifted from his comfy chair. Teach was so stunned by their sheer audacity that he didn’t put up even a token sign of resistance as they dragged him from the flickering fireplace.

When he finally overcame the sudden shock, Teach said, What in the … I thought you were on Vinta!

Yes, and now we're here, said Two, a smug look on his face.

But I locked the CPD! How did you-

Oh, don't you worry about that.

Right!

Two and Wong shoved Teach on a chair and took the seats on either side of him. Teach leaned close to Teach as Wong angled a table lamp so that the light was shining directly in Teach’s eyes.

Okay, Teach, Two said, Talk. Tell us what the hell is going on with One's assignment

Teach looked at them strangely. Nothing. It should be under control.

Uh-huh. Right. Genina?

Affirmative.

Teach spun his head around just in time to see a Rimstakken woman wearing a dark blue tank-top and a Rimstak Security Force jacket tied around her waist tap him directly on the forehead with a shock baton. A jolt shot through him, causing him to spasm and his muscles to seize. The shock didn’t last long, but it was long enough for Two and Wong to secure Teach’s arms and legs to the chair.

Hey! Teach said, struggling in vain to free himself. What the hell has gotten into you?

Two let out a derisive snort. Yeah, you have no idea what’s going on. I mean, why shouldn’t we just take your word for it? We're just the stupid one and the slacker.

Hey, Wong said, a hurt look on his face. I'm not a slacker!

Two glared at Wong before tying off the final rope. More annoyed than anything, Teach tried to use his powers to free himself. To his astonishment, nothing happened.

What the … you guarded the rope? Teach asked incredulously.

And the chair, Two said, Just in case.

The commotion had startled several of the books. They flew overhead, pages flapping in agitation before they dove at the three Dreamers only for Wong to pull a baseball bat from his pocket and knock them away. Those he missed were stunned by the Rimstakken officer’s sidearm.

Careful! Teach said, Those books are irreplaceable!

Two snorted. Forget the books; you’ve got bigger problems.

I don't understand, Teach said, Did something happen to Mikaen? Is One okay?

Oh, yeah, he's fine. I mean, he’s messed up after you totally betrayed him like that, but we'll see him through.

Betrayed? Teach repeated, more bewildered than ever. I never betrayed One! He's my friend!

Two let out a laugh. Oh, yeah, you’re a real buddy all right. Wong?

Ha! It is to laugh! Wong let out a single exaggerated laugh as he slipped a polka dot handkerchief around Teach's mouth. It too was guarded, leaving Teach unable to do much more than mumble angrily.

Oh, you’ll get the chance to talk, Two told him, I’m sure Mikaen’s got a lot of questions for you right now.

Two and Wong lifted Teach's chair from the ground. Genina followed them, her sidearm trained on Teach as Two and Wong carried him toward the nearest wall. The CPD appeared in anticipation of their egress, the plate on the door bearing the words, Have a Nice Day. They were almost to the door when a stern voice demanded, What do you think you are doing?

They turned to see Karma, her hands on her hips and her eyes as red as blood. Unhand my husband right now, she demanded.

Like hell, Two said, He's gonna-

Two staggered back, Karma’s punch taking him completely by surprise. The kind and demure lady Dreamer who wore modest dresses and always struck Two as being too shy to speak louder than a whisper proceeded to strike Two with the skill of a veteran pugilist. A few well-placed hits forced Two to drop the chair, clutching at the parts of him now throbbing painfully. The right half of Teach’s chair hit the ground and was quickly followed by the left as Wong dropped his side as well. Wong reached out to Two, stomping his foot excitedly on the ground. Tag me! Tag me in!

Half-delirious from pain, Two stretched out his arm and was just able to make the tag. With a roar he likely thought impressive, Wong tore off his clothes to reveal colorful wrestling tights. He grabbed the nearest chair, shook it until it transformed into a metal folding chair, and ran at Karma.

Showing limberness that Two couldn't help but admire (especially considering she was wearing a dress), Karma swung her leg around and kicked Wong in the stomach. As Wong stumbled back, she flipped over Two's body and caught Wong full in the chest with a flying clothesline, knocking him to the floor.

More Wongs popped into existence, each wearing a luchador outfit and a face mask painted to look just like Wong's face, making them essentially pointless. They rushed at Karma, who flipped over the first, caught his head between her calves, and flung him at the second on the way down. Another Wong appeared behind her, but she easily caught his fist mid-punch. She used her grip to pull him into position moments before pile-driving him into carpeted floor. Karma took down the rest of the army of Wongs in surprisingly short order.

With Two and numerous Wongs lying on the floor in various states of pain, Karma straightened her dress, smoothed her long blonde hair, and looked at Genina. The Rimstakken Officer demonstrated more wisdom than her Dreamer friends by quickly holding up her hands and stepping away from Teach’s chair. Nodding in approval, Karma walked over to her husband.

Are you okay? she asked him as she removed his gag.

I'm fine, dear, he told her, rubbing her cheek once his hands were free. And appreciative.

She gave him a knowing smile. We can talk about that later.

I look forward to it. They kissed for a long moment before Teach rose to his feet.

All right, you two. What in the name of the Creeagh! Teach whirled about, clutching his backside. Karma continued walking away from him, a mischievous smile on her face as she moved to the Library’s front desk.

Teach shook his head and turned his attention back to his would-be abductors. Okay, now what is this all about? No tangents, no beating around the bush … just come out and say it.

We think you're Liegan, Wong told him, wincing as the other Wongs rose to their feet and hobbled away, eventually vanishing back to their respective times.

Teach raised an eyebrow at them. I beg your pardon?

Mikaen's bigby, Two said, doing his best to ignore the remaining pain in his unmentionables. Y’know, the dickbag in charge of the Revs? Doctrine of Humanity, responsible for killing a bunch of non-humans and magi? Any of this ringing a bell?

and most recently, he is being responsible for the attempted genocide of the entirety of Rising Star, Genina added.

I know who Liegan is and what he’s done, ma’am, Teach said irritably. What I don’t know is why you three would think that he and I are the same person.

Oh, I dunno, Two said with a nonchalant shrug, Maybe it was the way he knew the shield protecting Rising Star was gonna fall, maybe it was the way he knew just when to pop out and trap us all, or maybe it was the glowing Anti-ka Maru on the back of his left hand.

His - Teach looked down at his left hand, his own rune glowing softly. Realization dawned on his face. Wait … are you telling me Liegan's a Dreamer?

An Elsewhere Dreamer, Two told him. Specifically, one who had access to knowledge from the Library and who didn't have problem throwing around guards.

A skill you seem to have picked up yourself, Teach said, seeming impressed despite himself.

Two shrugged. A Dreamer has to think quickly on his feet. That's one of the little Dreamer tips you love throwing around, isn't it? Besides, if I hadn't learned quickly, Liegan would've killed more than just Tirinia Myssohn.

The sound of breaking glass shot through the Library. Karma stood behind the counter, the shattered wine glass lying on the counter as the wine dripped into the carpet. Ignoring the mess, Karma hurried over to the group.

What did you just say? she asked Two, a look of horror on her face.

Tirinia Myssohn was killed, Two said. Liegan vaporized the shit outta her with some kind of energy gun. The only thing left was her engagement pendant.

Teach's face was as pale as that of his wife. Stream resonance protected it, I suppose. It was a crystallized seed of a chronoan tree. Is One okay?

Oh, he’s been better, Two said, hands on his hips. Teria decked One so hard that he had to get treated for another concussion.

Teach looked Two in the eye. I give you my word, Two; I would never harm Tirinia, willingly or no.

He’s telling the truth, Karma said, resting a hand on her husband’s arm. I give you my word as well.

Two stared at Teach and Karma for a long moment before letting out a sigh. Okay, so maybe I was wrong about it being you. Can you blame me? I mean you’re left-handed and you know more than anyone. You're a good fit under the circumstances.

Didn’t you say the same thing about Jay, Max, and Jeff from Accounting, I hate that guy and so do you, Wong said innocently.

Genina nodded. Jeff is being rather unlikeable.

Two glared at him. Hey! They were suspects.

You were having done Jeff twice, Genina reminded him. He is not even showing preference for his left hand.

Then why investigate him at all? Karma asked, bewildered.

Because screw Jeff, that's why. Sighing, Two said, Look, there are only so many Dreamers. We keep checkin’ everyone out and it’ll just be a matter of time before we find ‘em.

Well, if it’s an alibi you’re looking for, I've been with Teach this last week, Karma told him, We hasn't even left the Elsewhere Mansion.

What? I thought you were keeping an eye on the Mikaen and One situation! Two said, glaring at the elder Dreamer. I thought you had everything under control!

Yes, well, you lot were supposed to stay in the Elsewhere, weren't you? Teach retorted.

It's a damn good thing we didn't! Two snapped. If we'd listened to you, everyone on that transport would be dead, One included.

Teach’s eyes widened. He attacked One?

Yeah, said Two, calming down a little, I heard him say something about not letting One interfere with his master plan. Blah, blah, usual bigby monologuing crap. We would’ve had the bastard if he hadn’t zipped out in a portal.

Teach sighed and rubbed his temples. I admit I suspected Liegan was a Dreamer.

You-

Let me finish! Teach took a moment to compose himself before continuing, That's why I put a guard around the Elsewhere. I was trying to account for every Dreamer, then see who tried sneaking away. You can imagine my surprise when pretty much everyone snuck through my guard, though after what you’ve told me, I can only agree it was for the best. Teach smiled at Two. You really came through, huh?

Yup, Two said with a touch of pride. Guarded my gun and its bullets and shot the bastard in the knee. Oh yeah, Two added, nodding as Teach winced at the sound of Liegan’s injury. He'll recover as soon as he gets the chance, but it was enough to scare him off.

And at that moment, with One in danger and all those norms nearby, that was the important thing. Teach sighed and rose to his feet. I must go speak to Mikaen. He deserves an explanation for all this.

I'll go with you, Karma said, her hand on his arm. Maybe I can help.

Teach looked like he wanted to argue but sighed and nodded instead. Of course, my love.

The CPD appeared, this time appearing as one of the doors of the Phoenix and bearing the label, ‘Watch your Step’. Karma passed through the door first, Teach pausing a moment before following her. Looking back at Two, Teach said, I want you to keep up your investigation, Two. don't forget to investigate the Dreamers who left the Elsewhere as well. Not everyone bearing the Anti-ka Maru still follows our ideals.

We’ll get right on it, Two told him.

Teach nodded and stepped through the doorway, closing behind him a moment later. Two smacked himself in the head as the door vanished once again.

We'll get right on it? Two muttered to himself. My god, this assignment's screwing with my head.

Turning to Wong and Genina, Two asked, Okay, so who's next on the list?

Wong pulled a crumpled-up piece of paper out of his pocket. Let's see: Atraius, Alan T. Tryth, and Jeff again because 'he probably deserves it, the sneaky bastard'.

Did I write that in? Two asked.

Genina nodded. It is essentially being verbatim to your prior speech.

Damn. I'm smarter than I thought. Okay, let's hit Jeff again first, then go talk to Atraius. I doubt it’s Alan, so we’ll do him last.

As they headed to the nearest door, Two asked, Alan T. Tryth. Maybe the T is for Tristan? I knew a guy who had Tristan as a middle name.

Nah, it doesn't sound like him, Wong said. Tybalt?

Genina shook her head. Most assuredly not. Perhaps it is being Timothy?

Tonberry? Two suggested.

Still guessing, they exited the Library.

Chapter 2

Dealing with it

The training dummies never stood a chance. They rarely claimed victory against their opponents, but in this case their opponent was Teria Myssohn, three-time winner of the Longshore Melee. She didn’t even bother with a weapon; her claws sliced, diced, and tore through straw and wood until all that remained was scrap and straw.

Her mind was as much a mess as the training chamber. Her sister’s death, the emergence of Tirinia’s biological parents, and the fact that one of them was Darcones Fairchilde, Triumvate of Ronisgald and leader of the Galden Security Force, stung like an open wound. Mikaen seemed to buy Darcones’s claim that he was on their side, but Teria wasn’t so forgiving.

Why had Darcones been working with Liegan? Why had Darcones tried to stop them? Why had Darcones and his wife abandoned Tirinia? Teria wanted to press Mikaen for answers, but his grief at her loss and Teria’s respect for her late sister’s chosen mate kept her from asking him. The only other person who could give her the answers she wanted was Darcones, and she’d stared the xemptarian down both times they’d happened upon each other in the corridors of the Phoenix. Teria wanted him to know she was keeping an eye on him. Unfortunately, that still left her with a lot of questions … and anger.

Wiping her brow, she called out, NEXT!

The fallen bits of training dummies vanished only to be replaced with a fresh set. Shae went on and on about the experimental solid holograms, but Teria didn’t give a damn about the technical side of the training room at the moment. She made even shorter work of the new training dummies, grabbing the head of the very last and twisting it until it popped off the dummy like a cork.

Remind me not to anger you, Daughter Myssohn.

Teria spun around to see Core Desygan looking at her with an expression of bemusement on his smooth gray face. The android wore a pair of jeans and an unbuttoned T-shirt. His artificial nature was still obvious from the gray ‘skin’ covering his face along with the exposed parts beneath his body plating, but the clothes did help him appear more like a normal member of the crew.

Wiping her brow, she asked shortly, What do you want?

I was hoping we could talk,

I’m busy, she said. Go talk to someone else.

I already have.

Something in the way he said that gave her pause. Who? she asked curiously.

Everyone. He paused before clarifying, Well, everyone on the Phoenix. Most conversations weren’t that long. The sentients who decided to join the crew are too busy learning about the technology to talk and most of the Rimstakkens still fear the Glyche.

Small wonder, given you lot nearly conquered Rimstak. Teria grabbed a towel and wiped the damp fur of her forehead. Look, I can’t make them not scared of you it that’s what you’re asking.

I understand that, Core said, But in truth, it was with you I wished to speak.

Teria stared at him for a long moment before shaking her head. Look, no offense, tin-man, but I don’t wanna talk right now. I want to hit things.

Why? Core asked curiously.

It makes me feel better. She sighed and said, You wouldn’t understand. NEXT!

The remnants of the training dummies vanished as a fresh set of training dummies appeared. As she turned to face the first, however, Core said, I do understand. You are angry because you couldn’t save your sister.

Teria froze. Her fists slowly clenched as she said, Don’t go there.

She was taken from you. There was no fight, no chance to get revenge on her killer … by the time everything was said and done, she was dead and Liegan was gone.

Stop talking. Teria hissed. Just shut up, okay? You don’t know anything about-

-Losing part of my family? Core asked, raising a hairless eyebrow. The Corruption didn’t just cost the lives of native Vintans, Daughter Myssohn. The biological Glyche were slaughtered, and thousands of Core Units were as good as dead, their former personalities shunted to make them the perfect soldiers.

It’s not the same, Teria said, her cheeks flushed.

Core nodded. You are correct. Tirinia has yet to rise from the grave and attempt to kill or corrupt us. I will, however, remain vigilant.

Teria stared at Core for a moment before a chuckle slipped unbidden from her lips. Point taken, she said, but the Corruption was over three-thousand years ago.

Three-thousand and thirty-two years, four months, and six days. Core said without a moment’s hesitation. I can go down to the seconds if you want, but I think you get my point. And as for the number of Core Units rendered inoperable? Sixteen-thousand four-hundred and seven, including Jenna.

Jenna? Who’s Jenna?

Core approached the nearest training dummy, regarded it with a curious expression for a moment, then calmly tore it in half. Letting the pieces fall to the ground, he turned back to Teria.

Hmm. I think … yes, I do believe I feel a little better. Do you mind if I join you?

A small smile spread across Teria’s face. Sure thing, tin-man.

One stepped back from the Breath of Fire, the fusion welder of his right Headache unit deactivating as he surveyed his work. Nodding in satisfaction, he grabbed the old plate and carried it back to his makeshift workbench. Originally just a bunch of crates secured together with Headache’s rivet driver, already it bore the marks and modifications of a Builder. He set the damaged armor plating against the side of his workbench and took a moment to stretch, grunting with each relief-filled pop of his spine before turning his attention back to his worklist.

Let’s see, he murmured, Replace Breath of Fire’s armor plating: check. Fix cargo bay door mechanism: check. Repair and replace Breath of Fire’s drone soldiers: parts pending. Modify Teria’s Impulse gear: …

He raised his gaze to the UBTs laying on his workbench beside a pair of shiny tek-boots and an impulse visor. The UBTs were model twos, an upgrade to One’s original design that featured a lighter build, a larger display screen, and an overall more streamlined appearance than One’s admittedly bulkier prototypes. The expansion ports were currently empty, but this was normal; Builders were expected to make their own upgrades.

The tek-boots were identical to One’s, though One could see slots designed for additional armor plating to be attached. The impulse visor served the same function as the internal visor implanted in One’s head. One preferred the implant, as visors could be broken or knocked off in the heat of battle. All in all, it was a fully functional set of Impulse gear, the standard gear of a Builder with the added capability of allowing the wearer to access the Impulse Control Systems of any dreadnaught and pilot it directly with their mind. The knowledge of a complete surviving set of Impulse Gear was a singular bright spot in One’s life of late.

Teria had made use of the gear to pilot the Breath of Fire, ultimately using the dragon mech to help drive off the Revs and Galden from their attempted genocide of the sentients of Rising Star. She’d exited the Breath of Fire with a level of excitement that quickly faded as the effects of the draconic imprint within the Breath of Fire wore away, leaving her with the knowledge that she’d slaughtered hundreds, perhaps even thousands. Still, the people she had killed were far from innocent, and the surviving sentients owed her their lives. Hearing how much of a difference she made, how many lives she helped save all thanks to his trust in her piloting the Breath of Fire eased her discomfort and left her more than ready to continue their relationship right where they had left off all those years ago … and then he told her the bad news.

Suzette, the cute little medical android now installed on the Phoenix, offered to heal the black eye, but he’d refused. That kind of pain One could deal with. No, it was the look of betrayal, of disappointment on her face that cut him most deeply. He’d failed her … he’d failed them both.

That was a week ago, and One could still feel the knot inside him clenching more and more tightly by the day. Liegan’s pistol, the energy weapon that vaporized Tirinia, lay on the corner of his workbench. Part of him wanted to destroy it while another part of him wanted to take it apart and figure out how it worked. Revs weren’t creators; the technology they possessed was largely stolen from the Rangers Collective. One didn’t recall seeing any energy-based guns, most of the post-Devastation world using either salvaged or hand-crafted weaponry. Despite that, there was something about the strange pistol that tugged at One’s memory.

Shaking his head, One pulled Teria’s UBTs toward him. Shae left plenty of parts for both ship repair and anything else One deemed important, so upgrading the UBTs for Teria wouldn’t be a problem. Besides, the work would help him take his mind off his troubles with Teria … and Mikaen. His hands moved quickly, carefully dismantling armor plating and safety panels before digging into the wiring and circuitry itself.

One expected Mikaen to be angry like Teria and was therefore unprepared for the strange and complete apathy the sentient had since displayed since the death of Tirinia. The True Knight had locked himself away from everyone, only leaving on occasion to eat. One didn’t know how it felt to lose a bondmate, but the look on Mikaen’s face as he stood over the pile of dust that was all that remained of Tirinia was not one the Dreamer was likely to forget anytime soon. Mikaen had not spoken to One since that day, and One couldn’t blame him. One had failed him. He’d failed Teria. He’d failed Tirinia. He had failed everyone.

No, you haven’t!

One glanced back to see Jeronem standing behind him, a sympathetic look on the vuestan boy’s impish face. Jeronem had been rather scarce of late, though One wrote it off as the boy’s magical studies. It was easy to forget after all they’d been through that Jeronem was still a student.

Sighing, One said, I appreciate you saying that, but-

You didn’t fail anyone! Jeronem persisted. I was on the boarding party too, remember? I did a psionic sweep of the ship and found nothing. The sensors on the gull we stole didn’t account for Liegan. Even Core didn’t spot the guy, and Core’s awesome at spotting things.

I let my guard down, One told him. I thought we were in the clear. I should’ve-

Dude, you can’t watch over everyone forever! Besides, what could you have done against a Dreamer with your powers gone? He nearly dropped you out of an airship for Creator’s sake!

One rubbed his rune hand. His Anti-ka Maru was dark, nothing more than a strange tattoo for all it supposedly represented. If I hadn’t lost my powers in the first place-

-Teria would be dead. Jeronem nodded at the look that passed over One’s face. And if you hadn’t saved her, I’m damn sure we never would’ve made it out of Ronisgald. Even if you could go back and do it again, would you really trade Teria for Tirinia?

One let out a sigh. No.

Exactly. And hey, it’s not like you’re completely powerless; you’ve got that Access thingy now, yeah?

Yeah, One repeated without much enthusiasm. Jeronem was right in theory; the amulet made for him by the Dreamer known as Max was pre-loaded with a number of useful Dreamer abilities, potentially giving One some of his abilities back. Unfortunately, the entire thing functioned by means of a three-rune activation system that One didn’t understand in the least. He wore the pendant, but it might as well just be another flashy bauble to him.

Jeronem hopped onto One’s workbench so he could look the Dreamer in the eyes. I get it, I do. Everyone liked Tirinia. She was pretty and kind, and we’re all still feeling the pain of her loss. Mikaen’s practically catatonic, Teria’s been in the gym tearing apart training dummies for over four hours, and Darcones is riling up the Council to take out those sentient-murdering Revs for good. Y’know what, though? The Revs didn’t get them all. All those sentients we saved have to count for something, right?

I know, said One, And they do. I just wish I had a way to end this … to stop Liegan, or at least figure out what the hell he’s up to.

A sly smile crossed Jeronem’s face. I was hoping you might say that. Check this out!

Jeronem held out his staff. One reached out to touch it but hesitated at the last moment. While he never had much in the way of magical clairvoyance, there was a definite aura about the staff that made him uncomfortable.

Back when we were in Ronisgald, Luck helped me infiltrate Darcones’s base. Jeronem said as One pulled his hand back. I intended to use this on Darcones to figure out what was going on, but when I saw Liegan, I could tell something was definitely up with him, so I hit him with it instead.

With what?

Thurguhast Mallidri. Jeronem paused and added, That’s old elvari. I dunno what it translates to, but the spell allows for the copying of memories.

What? One now regarded the staff with a keen interest. And it worked?

Yup. Got a bunch from him before he started getting suspicious. I’ve been trying to interpret what I got since then.

That’s what you’ve been working on? What have you found?

Jeronem’s face fell. Nothing. I get images, but without context, it’s impossible for me to figure them out. I thought it was because he was from Earth, but after Rising Star, I can’t help but wonder if it’s because he’s a Dreamer.

Maybe, One said, skepticism starting to give way to hope. Knowledge of the Dream Realm can screw with perception, especially if you’re not used to it.

So, I was thinking maybe if you look at them, they’ll make more sense! Jeronem held out the staff again.

One stared at the staff, repulsed by the unpleasant air it seemed to generate, yet strangely intrigued. Whatever secrets were hidden in the facets of the staff wouldn’t bring Tirinia back, but maybe with Jeronem’s help, they might be able to prevent any more deaths and stop Liegan’s plans.

Nodding, One said, Okay, I’m in.

Jeronem beamed at him. Awesome! Let’s get started!

Whoa! One said, It’s been a long day, Jeronem. Let’s do it in the morning so we can hit it with a fresh start.

Good idea. Good thinking! Jeronem glanced that the UBTs on the bench beside him. Whatcha workin’ on anyway?

Upgrading the Impulse Gear we found in the Breath of Fire, One said, turning his attention back to his work. I need to unwind a bit.

That’s how you unwind? Jeronem asked, eyeing the mess of circuits and parts surrounding the partially dismantled UBTs.

Chuckling, One said, Tinkering helps me relax.

That’s for Teria, right? asked Jeronem.

Right, One said, hoping Jeronem wouldn’t try to press the matter. He already received similar talks from Shae, Maxim and Kajex, Jek, Annabelle, and a very strange but similarly themed conversation with Core. At that point, talking about Teria was just making him feel more and more depressed.

Of course, One had forgotten that Jeronem was vuestan, a species of natural psionicists and empaths, and was exceptionally gifted at reading even the most guarded minds.

Y’know, I could go get a read off her. Jeronem offered. I mean, this wasn’t the first time she hit you, and I caught you two kissing shortly after last time. It’s no problem.

No! Quickly composing himself, One said in a calmer voice, No thank you, Jeronem. I appreciate that you want to help, but please, just … if there is anything left between me and Teria, we need to sort it out on our own, okay?

Okay, okay. I just thought I’d offer, One. Never one to stay down for long, Jeronem asked, Say, I got a better way to unwind. Let’s take the Ashra for a spin!

One glanced at the Ashra, Shae’s prototype aircraft in which he and Jeronem inadvertently won the Glyche Circuit. It was a crazy flight, most of which One spent outside the cockpit. Still, the feeling of speed, the air rushing through his hair, and the urgency of the moment helped him forget all his other worries, if only for a time.

Y’know, One said, setting down his tools. That sounds like a good idea. Let’s go.

Mikaen sat alone in his quarters, the black notebook he’d found ages ago resting on his lap. The notebook contained a bunch of mismatched stories and anecdotes that they’d come to believe were part of One’s Pre-Devastation life. Even if it was just the Dreamer’s creative musings, Mikaen and Tirinia had fun reading them. With her gone however, he couldn’t even summon the strength to open the old leatherbound notebook.

With Shae and One taking care of repairs, Jeronem focused on his studies, and Jyle heading the Council, a real Council, with the actual leaders of Vinta instead of their children, there wasn’t anything for Mikaen to do. Jeronem’s dad, Elduran, offered his seat to Mikaen, but Mikaen refused. He wasn’t a politician; He was a knight, and at the moment, there just wasn’t any use for a knight. Besides, Mikaen needed a clear head to represent Homestead, precisely the commodity he currently lacked.

Part of him regretted turning down the Elduran’s offer. Mikaen needed something to do, something to fill the emptiness that threatened to engulf him whenever his thoughts inevitably turned to Tirinia. He still couldn’t believe she was gone. Sometimes, when he lay awake at night, he could swear that he felt her presence. It seemed to linger at the edges of his mind, soothing and comforting as if to assure him that everything would be all right.

But it wouldn’t be all right. He’d wake up and she would be gone, and there wasn’t even a body left for him to bury. Worse yet was the loss of their bond, a horrible gnawing emptiness inside him where once he’d felt the reassuring stream of her thoughts and feelings. Twice now, the love of his life had been taken from him. He didn’t know if he had it in him anymore to care.

For their part, Saera and Malcom Myssohn had taken it well. Saera, who Mikaen was certain would be on the war path, even tried to comfort him.

You made her happy, she had told him, tears still in her eyes as she embraced him. Be glad of that. If there’s truly anything after this life, I’m sure you’ll meet her there.

It was some small comfort, to be sure, but against the waves of depression threatening to drag him down into oblivion, it seemed woefully inadequate.

There was a gentle knock on his door.

Mikaen? Maria’s voice asked hesitantly. Mike, are you there?

When he didn’t respond, the door swung open slightly. He listened as the sound of her footsteps approached him.

I’m still not much of a cook, Maria said, her cheeks flushed beneath her pale fur as she set a plate of sandwiches next to him. But I figured you hadn’t eaten in a while.

Thanks. The mumble fell from his lips devoid of any energy.

After a few moments, Maria sighed. I’d ask how you’re dealing with it, but I guess that’s pretty obvious.

She sat beside him and gently rubbed his arm. It hurts, I know. I still feel a wisp of you in my thoughts every now and then, even though I’m bonded to Darcones now. She let out a sigh. If I had known we’d meet again, that all I had to do was wait-

No. Blushing, he said in a kinder tone, Not for two centuries. I wouldn’t have wanted you to go through that, especially if you’d feel like this.

It does get better, she reassured him. It feels bad now, but you will heal. I promise you that much.

After another stretch of silence, Mikaen swung his legs over the edge of his bed and sat up. How long were you and Darcones together before you realized something was there?

About five years, she told him. And another ten for us to both come to terms with it. He knew I still cared about you and I was still holding out hope that I might find some way back.

I’m glad you moved on, he said, a faint smile on his lips. You deserved to be happy … to get married and have a family …

He paused for a moment at the slight tightening of her grip on his arm. Maria and her husband Darcones were Tirinia’s true parents, though Tirinia had only known them as such for a short time before her passing.

You moved on and were happy, and I’m glad for that Mikaen told her, putting his hand over hers. And I’m glad that we have the chance to be friends again now.

Me too, she said, squeezing his hand. After a moment of silence, she said, And what about you? Will you move on?

I don’t know. Right now, it hurts to even think about her. His fingers clenched the comforter of the bed as he continued, What I really want is to find Liegan. I want to grab the bastard with both hands and tear him apart bit by bit, Dreamer or not. I want to set his plans ablaze, and be there to throw him in the deepest, darkest cell they can find or make when everything he’s worked for comes tumbling to the ground.

I hear that. Maria said, an approving look in her eyes. And Darc’s with you all the way. He’s having a time convincing the Council though.

Oh? Mikaen said, raising an eyebrow at his former fiancée.

Well, Ircandesta and Homestead are with us. Jyle already knows about Liegan, and Elduran saw enough in your mind to take your word for it. Guildmaster Breven’s with us too, thanks to your friend, One.

And the others? Mikaen asked, his voice strangely quiet.

Maria let out a derisive snort. Jai Vye’s turtling up like usual, and the Cleftan Region thinks it doesn’t concern them. To be fair, they live in a god-forsaken hellhole; even the Revs probably aren’t mental enough to go there. Still, you’d think they’d care a bit more after what the Revs did on Rising Star.

Speaking of, what about the sentients? Mikaen asked. Is Andreas participating?

Snorting again, Maria said, I haven’t seen Andreas or his wife since we landed in Ircandesta. They didn’t even bother sending a representative to the Council.

I guess I can’t really blame him, Mikaen said, They’ve probably got his hands through with the surviving sentients and the new Seschal.

The Revs were a cancer, an insidious growth that poisoned everything they touched, all the while prattling about purity. When he came to Vinta, he felt he’d somehow escaped, yet there they were, working their sickness on his beautiful new home.

Deep within the emptiness inside him, a fire began to burn. He wasn’t going to let it happen. He wasn’t going to let the Revs destroy Vinta. He wasn’t going to let them do there what they did on Earth, the Council be damned.

Without a word, Mikaen rose to his feet and headed for the door.

What are you doing? Maria asked, a worried look on her face as she moved to follow him.

Moving on.

Chapter 3

Intervention

The beauty of Muonsol Palace was lost on Mikaen as he walked briskly through the halls, Maria close behind him. Whether because of his armor, the sense of purpose in his stride, or his blood red eyes, members of the palace staff gave both Mikaen and Maria a wide berth.

Mikaen paused as they neared the doors to the Council chamber. The two guards stood at attention, but he only stared at the doors in silence.

What is it? Maria asked curiously, a slight grin spreading across her face. What are you thinkin’?

Without a word, Mikaen past the walked to the next door over and opened it very suddenly, startling the room’s sole occupant.

Jek! Mikaen barked, making the idestan prince stand up straight. We’re going!

Wha … er, y-yes sir! Jek stammered, trying in vain to hide the wire extending from the dataport in his neck to the wall console.

Mikaen glanced at the other side of the room. To anyone else it would’ve appeared empty, but Mikaen’s sentient eyes could see the shifting of magical energy in the corner. Jade?

An audible sigh could be heard. Jade and Kevin appeared huddled in the corner, Jade’s natural invisibility quickly fading from them both.

What? Jek said, startled by their abrupt appearance.

How do you do that? Jade asked Mikaen irritably.

It’s a secret. Mikaen told her. You two wanna get out of here?

Jade and Kevin traded glances.

Well, I was hoping to go home soon. Kevin said, rubbing the back of his head.

Me too, said Jade. I miss Triana, and Dean is probably driving our babysitter nuts by now.

Just as well. I was going to ask you to go back to Ronisgald while I lead a team to Rimstak.

You want me to come along? Maria asked, a familiar sparkle in her eyes.

I do, Mikaen admitted, but you won’t.

What?

He let out a sigh. Darcones needs you more than I do right now. Besides, I’d like a friendly set of eyes here.

You mean a spy. Her lips curved into a smile. I can do that.

Good. Could you start by running distraction on Jyle until we take off?

Got it! She gave him a brief hug before hurrying back toward the Council chamber.

Mikaen watched her go. It was hard not to see Tirinia when he looked at her mother, and even harder not to remember his feelings for the both of them.

Kevin asked, So what’s the plan? You said you were wanting us to go back to Ronisgald?

That’s right, Mikaen said. I’ll bet my wings the Revs are still in contact with the Ronisgald government. We need to know just how deep that connection is and if there’s a way we can break it. There’s also the matter of the Amplifier. We need to see if there’s some way we can sabotage it to prevent the Revs from gaining control.

Okay. Jade said, nodding, But I’d like Jek to come with us.

Mikaen glanced at Jek, who seemed just as surprised by the request. Me? Why?

Think about it. Kevin’s the Blader, I’m the Shadow, you’re the Tekker. If we’re doin’ this, I want a full team. Besides, you have some experience poking around with Ronisgald tech from your first visit.

Jek looked hopefully at Mikaen who shrugged and nodded. Your choice.

Sure! Jek told Jade excitedly. I’ll go grab my gear!

Meet us at the palace gate! Jade called out as Jek hurried out of the room.

Jade, Kevin, Mikaen said, Be careful, okay?

We will. Jade smirked. Sir.

Mikaen glared at her, prompting her to laugh.

Just a joke, she said. "Seriously, though, aren’t we like a miniature