Discovery at Nerwolix: Arizal Wars, #3

By C.G. Coppola

After a visit to find Blovid, the last Arizal Leader, Fallon and the others reside on Nerwolix, preparing for and anticipating the Vermix invasion. With startling revelations about herself and her future with Reid, Fallon must use all her new strength and knowledge to help ensure the survival of her friends while protecting a sacred artifact that could disrupt the balance of the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: C.G. Coppola
• Release date: Aug 22, 2022
• ISBN: 9781393656296

C.G. Coppola

C.G. Coppola is the author of the fantasy adventure series, Arizal Wars, and the contemporary romance series, Better Than This. In addition to short stories that explore magic and the paranormal, she writes books that involve a lot of kissing, kickass heroines, and fighting alongside best friends. When not writing, C.G. Coppola can be found watching Netflix, playing with her dogs, Appa and Regis, or dancing to Meghan Trainor in the kitchen.

Book preview

BLOVID

I’m immediately warm .

Heat radiates from several small torches lining the dark wall, defrosting my limbs which have nearly turned solid from the cold. I wasn’t sure I’d ever feel warm again—having trudged through Larupip’s frigid tundra in nothing but my baseball tee and jeans—it was up for debate. But now that I’ve followed Able into the tunnel brimming with yellow light, I’m soaking in much-needed heat. I can feel my fingers again and the tip of my nose. My face doesn’t feel like a hard mask, but skin, completely pliable and right. I inhale through my nostrils and watch as the crackling fire flickers, casting shadows along the dark cave walls that curve around, encompassing us in a golden egg of warmth. I drop my hands to my sides. I don’t have to breathe heat into them anymore now that we’ve arrived.

Out of all the places I expected the Arizal Leader to be, a frozen wasteland is not what I had in mind. I knew it would be some place obscure; Blovid wouldn’t make it easy for him to be located. But here? On Larupip? In the middle of a frozen nowhere?

Excuse us! Jace and Werzo bulldoze in, knocking Reid into me and me nearly to the wall. He catches me before I hit it, snapping his head back at them.

Guys?

Fr-freezing! Werzo mumbles through chattering teeth.

Sorry, Fallon. Fire! Jace rushes over to one of the torches. He places his hands above the flame, visibly relaxing. Ah—much better.

What’re you—a caveman? Able shakes his head.

You alright? Reid has me by my elbow, leading me toward another torch, closer to where Vix has Qippert leaning against the wall.

Fine, I toss Jace and Werzo a look.

Everyone defrosting? Clarence heats his hands over the same torch that Booker and Tucker are using. No one getting hypothermia?

Oh—they should not be, a new voice says from the back. I have been here much longer and I am doing just fine.

We all turn, most hands still hovering above the torches as a new face steps into the fire’s golden light. He is somewhat older, close to Sampson’s age, and has black hair dusted lightly with grey. Like the Fychu, his eyes radiate an unnaturally sharp blue, except they’re more a striking cobalt rather than Sampson’s robin’s egg blue. Suited from head to toe in a padding of thick white fur, he’s in human form and standing tall, beaming at us with a hint of genuine curiosity.

Everyone, Sampson looks around the warm, golden space. I would like you to meet Blovid—one of the Leaders of Dellapalania.

We all sort of look at each other for a minute, and then to the new Dofinike who approaches. Planning my introduction, I’m about to make my way over when Clarence beats me to it, offering his hand.

It’s been too long.

It has old friend, they shake and the Arizal Leader throws his arm around Clarence’s back, pulling him in close. They embrace quickly and Blovid clasps him on his shoulder. I am so very sorry about everything that has happened since we last spoke.

When was the last time you spoke? Werzo asks.

Oh... Blovid’s smiles falters. Not since the trials, I believe.

Trials?

After the Ellae massacre... when the fate was decided of everyone involved. Sympse and Clarence... his eyes roam to the two, quickly filling with guilt, ...well, best we focus on the present, right?

Absolutely, Clarence agrees.

And Qippert, Blovid turns his attention to the injured Dofinike. I see you are less than operational since the last time I saw you.

It is a mere wound, he pats his abdomen. I should be fully healed in a day. Two at the most.

Dare I ask?

Much has happened since you left Pryncbia.

That’s an understatement.

Blovid fled Pryncbia when the Vermix invaded in search of him. But it didn’t stop with just an attack on the Northern shore—they went after the Southern Waters as well. We’d meant to follow the Arizal leader after we’d aided the planet, except a vast plague spilled into the water, killing nearly half the kingdom’s inhabitants and prolonging our stay. It was only after a trip to Nerwolix that we returned with the antidote and were finally able to leave Mybyncia in the recovering hands of Chancellor Keller.

I would not doubt it, Blovid laughs with a glance back at Sampson. I was beginning to wonder where you were. I expected perhaps a day’s delay before receiving you and the humans, he glances over us, but if my timing is correct, I believe... it has been a little over a week?

Sampson nods while Clarence offers a throaty chuckle. "It has been a long week."

And I am eager to hear of it, but first, he motions over his shoulder, to the lit tunnel behind him, let us eat.

"Yes," Jace celebrates under his breath.

What’re we having? Werzo rubs his hands together, following the line that quickly forms behind Blovid. Clarence and Vix assist Qippert; they’re followed by the Rogues and I, and then Sampson, who keeps to the tail end as we move through the narrow walls. You didn’t kill any Glippis did you? Because I’ve got to admit—I’m a little over it.

No, Blovid laughs. The Glippis are native to Mybyncia only. I assume you did not care for it? he throws a glance over his shoulder.

Not as much as the Hunnis, Jace grins.

Ah, yes, Blovid muses, leading us into a new room. It’s more than double the size of the last compartment with torches lining the entire space, casting the same golden glow. White and brown hides line the two levels which are separated by a solid gray staircase, and in the center of the ground floor, a small fire pit crackles beneath delicious roasting meat, which turns on a spit over it. The smell immediately invades my nostrils, causing a low grumbling in my stomach. I lick my lips as Blovid motions to the pit, But perhaps you might enjoy Carring?

What is it? Reid asks.

An animal native to Larupip. They are a bit terrible when attacking, Blovid gestures to the white fur rug lining the majority of the floor, but their meat falls right off the bones. Absolutely divine.

I’ll take your word for it, Werzo’s tongue practically hangs out of his mouth, his wide eyes set on the spit.

I am sorry, Blovid frowns at Sampson, but as I was not expecting you tonight, I do not have enough ready for all. I can put some more on, but it may take a moment.

That is perfectly fine, Sampson nods. You, Qippert, Clarence and Vix eat first. I’ll wait with the others.

Werzo visibly pouts while Jace’s stomach gives off its own opinion.

No, Blovid shakes his head. I could not possibly eat before my guests. Please, Fychu, you eat with Qippert, Clarence and Vix. I can wait with the humans while they fill me in on what has been happening. I was informed, he turns to us, about the terrible experiments being performed. Who was it that initially discovered the secret?

All the Rogues gesture to me and Blovid’s eyes widen in surprise. Really?

I nod.

How, may I ask, did you know where to look?

The Lynzees, Sampson breaks off a piece of the roast and offers it to Qippert. He tears another section in two and hands a piece to Clarence and Vix. They led her.

Is that so? Blovid gazes at me, as if suddenly interested on a whole new level.

What are they? I ask.

Without breaking his focus—or his smile—Blovid answers before Sampson can. They are messengers of the Lost Princesses.

Who are the Lost Princesses? They sound familiar, but I can’t quite recall where I’ve heard about them.

Really Fychu, Blovid glances back to him. Have you educated them at all?

We’ve had our hands full, Clarence bites into the delicious smelling roast, not a lot of time for class.

But the basics? he tsks him as Sampson puts a fresh slab of meat on the spit. Well, Blovid turns back on us, they are the Daughters of the Great Spirit, the Mother—the embodiment of the Way. The Lost Princesses were the ones to deliver the Three Worlds their Three Gifts.

"So why would they send their messengers to me? Does this happen often?" I glance at Sampson who is exchanging looks with Clarence.

No. Blovid shakes his head. It is a rare occurrence. I know of only a few times when the Lynzees have presented themselves.

What does this mean? Reid looks at me.

We do not know, Blovid shrugs, but they have chosen you for a reason, that much is certain. Tell me, have you seen them since?

I shake my head.

We’ve been on Mybyncia, Clarence says, and only a short time on Nerwolix.

They appear on all Worlds.

But they were little bugs, Reid frowns, glancing at me for confirmation. Right? Isn’t that what you said? How could they appear on Mybyncia?

"They are of the Spirit, able to transition their form to any environment. I believe they would appear with fins instead of wings, should they present themselves in Mybyncia’s great ocean. But bugs? Blovid frowns at me. Come now. Would you not consider them more of a fairy species?"

Not really sure, I shrug. They kept flying by so quickly and then at night... it was so dark...

Next time, look closer.

Next time? I glance from Clarence to Sampson and back to Blovid. Are you saying they’ll come back?

There is no way of knowing for certain, but I would not be surprised. We are still in the early stages of this war. They could have come to the Fychu with this information, but instead, they presented it to you, he scratches his chin, considering. I wonder what else they will find necessary to share, he glances to the others behind him. This will prove interesting indeed.

Good, good, Werzo nods, glancing over at the newly roasting Carring. How’s it coming? I’ll take mine medium if it makes it easier.

Almost done, Sampson assures.

Werzo grunts, folding his arms as he leans against the wall next to Tucker and Booker. Jace paces behind Reid and Able who stand quietly.

And the rest of you? Blovid scans the Rogues. I have heard good things about your deeds. Tell me—who was the leader of this rebellion against Beshib?

The boys all focus on Reid.

You? Blovid asks.

No, Reid shakes his head. It was a group effort, led primarily by the Fychu.

Don’t be modest, Sampson sighs, moving over to join the Arizal Leader. Reid here has too many accomplishments to boast of, but it’s not in his nature to brag.

It is not bragging if it is the truth, Blovid says.

Fallon had as much a hand in the rebellion as I did. As any of us did, he gestures to the other Rogues, and without the Fychu, it wouldn’t have happened.

And without you forming the Rogues, Sampson counters, we wouldn’t have had a force at all. We had a rebellion because you created an army of those unwilling to submit. Do not doubt yourself, Reid. You don’t give yourself enough credit.

So, it was a group effort, Blovid gestures to Reid, led by you. This is good to know. And Vix, dear, he turns to her, I trust you are in good health?

Yes, Sir.

And Sympse has advised me that you recently rejoined the others?

Yes—Able and I, she motions to him, were captured and held on Nerwolix. We attempted escape during the Vermix invasion but were unintentionally detained.

Interesting, he nods. And the others found you there?

Vix nods.

How has it been? Blovid softens his voice as he looks to Sampson. On Nerwolix?

Something passes over the Fychu’s face, but it’s gone before it has time to cement. We were only there for two days. Not enough time to get settled.

And what of Hozfin?

He wants nothing to do with the war.

Of course, Blovid laughs. Why would he? He is proud and fearless and does not believe any force—no matter its size or strength—could be a threat.

I’ve told him it may spill onto his lands, but you’re right, Sampson shakes his head, pulling the meat from the spit, he doesn’t believe it’s a viable threat. Alright guys, dinner is served.

Yes! Werzo jumps up, taking off for the meat, but Reid swipes him back.

Ladies first.

With a defeated grunt, Werzo falls back and Reid gestures me ahead. I tear a small section of the juicy meat free and, as unladylike as it is, force a huge chunk into my mouth, chewing away greedily. I wasn’t aware how hungry I’d become, but the roasted flavoring mixed with the soft flesh—I can’t help it. The boys chow down on theirs as quickly as I do, already sneaking around the pit for seconds. Sampson has put on another slab of meat, the cave beginning to fill with the sweet aroma again.

Once Blovid finishes his portion, he wipes his mouth clean, nodding back at Sampson. He will—Hozfin. Once the Vermix invade.

If we’re certain Reuzkimpart will bring his forces to Nerwolix, Hozfin needs to be prepared, Clarence paces the room, licking the remaining juice from his fingers.

"He believes he is prepared for any invasion," Sampson says.

But Reuzkimpart will come with Traxpires and whips. What kind of defenses does Hozfin have? Clarence asks. He going to unleash the Horrop?

He has the familiarity of the terrain and the strength and cleverness of his people.

But what’s that going to do when you’re staring down a Traxpire?

Hozfin has defenses, Vix nods. He does not make it known, as most trespassers are killed on sight by physical ambush, but they have highly fatal strategies.

Such as?

I am not at liberty to say... Vix looks between Blovid and Sampson. You will want to ask him when we return.

Yes—explain this to me, the Arizal Leader sighs. We are returning to Nerwolix, correct? I assumed that once the Vermix had fled Mybyncia, I would return under Queen Ravan’s shelter again.  But we are headed to Nerwolix because Mybyncia is still recovering? Was the Vermix invasion that detrimental?

Clarence and Sampson exchange glances but the Fychu answers first. No... the attack, though terrible, is not what kept us from you. He takes a breath, trying to form his words. We were planning to leave only a day or so after our arrival, but the Nhazual was released into Pryncbia’s waters.

The Nhazual? Blovid blanches.

Queen Ravan has lost half her city.

The princesses? he shifts forward. Chancellor Keller?

No. Although... Sampson trails off with a frown.

What? Blovid looks from him to Clarence. What is it?

Sampson sighs, hooking his hands on his hips. The Chancellor, Princess Sansa and Princess Ariana were all exposed.

Tell me they have been treated?

They have... the Fychu is quick to assure him, ...Chancellor Keller and Princess Sansa, at least.

And Ariana?

But before Sampson can explain, Tucker growls. She was taken. Abducted by Perio.

Of the Muskos? Blovid frowns.

Sampson nods. The chancellor believes she is safe... but our concern is her health. If Perio doesn’t have the antidotal bud...

"And you are certain she is with him?" Blovid asks.

It is most likely—yes, Sampson says. On our first night at the FH, a member of the Muskos abducted one of our younger females to sacrifice for all the bloodshed during the Vermix attack.

Wanted all three of us, actually, I mutter.

Where are the other two? Blovid glances around our group, as if having missed them. Were they...?

Oh no, Clarence shakes his head. They’re currently awaiting our return to Nerwolix.

So all three did survive?

Oh yes, Sampson nods. "After a rather impromptu rescue mission, he glances at Reid, the Muskos were imprisoned, but soon after the toxin was released, they escaped, though I am still unsure how.  And once we returned from Nerwolix, Ariana had gone missing."

That does not prove it was him.

It was him, Tucker scowls, arms folded as he leans against the wall. "He took her."

I would have to agree with the young Rogue, Qippert says. As demented as Perio’s views are on Dellapalania and Nerwolix, he would never harm the princess. He still wants her for his bride.

But where did they go? Blovid looks around, hoping someone will at least have an idea. Have they gone off planet?

No, but they still might... Sampson sighs. We’re really quite uncertain what his plan is at the moment.

And the toxin? How did it find its way into Pryncbia? The Nhazual is native to Nerwolix—

Perio released it, I say.

What? Blovid turns his wide eyes on me. How do you know?

He admitted it. He said, ‘many must die so others can understand.’ He just wanted to be in control. He wanted to create a panic so he could save the day.

But the princess...

If he was planning on releasing the antidote as some great savior, he has it with him. I’m sure the princess is already healed.

As you can imagine, Sampson paces, Queen Ravan is in great despair at the moment. The remaining portion of her kingdom is recovering, yes, but she has no idea of the whereabouts of Ariana.

Blovid simply shakes his head, his eyes roaming the ground in deep thought. This is not good.

"We will find her, Sampson nods reassuringly. But we couldn’t leave you here unattended much longer. Our return to Nerwolix is also imperative—we need to regroup with the others under Hozfin’s protection to discuss the next phase of this war."

And Reuzkimpart? Clarence directs his question to Blovid. Do you think he plans to invade Nerwolix soon?

There is no way of knowing... but I would think so. He will chase me across the galaxy if given the opportunity.

Sir... Clarence starts, shooting an uneasy glance to Sampson, you do know—you are aware of Reuzkimpart’s other motive?

What motive?

Again, Clarence pauses with an uncomfortable look at the Fychu before he focuses back on the Arizal Leader. His search for the two other Gifts.

What? Blovid looks between the two, his eyes wide in shock. And you are certain?

Yes, Sampson nods. Reuzkimpart didn’t just strike the North Shore. He sent attacks on the Southern Waters as well.

I knew he was determined but... Blovid stands, pacing as he scans the floor. This is not good. This is not just a civil war he has started, he pauses, looking to us. He has enacted war within the Three Worlds.

But Mybyncia is against him, I add, looking for a positive. And his own World is split in half. Isn’t he biting off more than he can chew if he brings it to Nerwolix?

He knows they sit idle, Clarence strums his chin. Nerwolix is known for their pride. He knows they will not prepare for any invasion because no invasion is too great that it cannot be defeated. He’ll use this as his opportunity to retrieve the Gift in ambush.

And what of when he has all three? Blovid asks.

He was unsuccessful in Mybyncia.

But he will go back. He will try and try again and then, once he has all three, then what? Blovid looks around. What is his purpose? What does he wish to do?

We think... Sampson starts but Blovid is already nodding.

Yes, he agrees, his sight lost in the distance, he wants to kill the Arizals. He looks up, his eyes full of despair. "This is worse than I imagined. To bring war on his own World, to kill the Leaders—it is a heinous crime in itself, but to rob the other Worlds of their Gift... to actually use them... he blanches. This has never been done."

The room goes quiet for a long moment.

Well, Clarence claps his hands with an exhale, nothing’s going to get solved here tonight. We’ve reunited with Blovid, which we’ve planned to do since leaving Harrizel. So let’s relax for now and we can discuss more in the morning.

Are we leaving for Nerwolix then? Jace asks.

What’s the rush?

Heat, Able laughs. I know you guys all have your Earth clothes, but I’m rocking the Zingfinold shorts over here, okay?

We can get you some of the Carring hide, Blovid makes for the stairwell leading up to the second level. It should keep you warm.

Are you warm enough? Reid whispers as he leans toward me.

I nod. Some Hunnis wouldn’t hurt, though.

Too bad we didn’t bring any, he inches closer, speaking into my ear. We’ll just have to find another way to heat you up.

Warmth spreads through me as Clarence makes his way around the room. Does anyone else need a cover?

Uh, Jace raises a finger, I’ll take one please.

Me too, Werzo nods.

Clarence glances around, Booker and Tucker also nodding a request. Shifting toward us, Clarence makes his way over. And you two?

We’ll take one, Reid lifts a finger.

Taking advantage of the free sleeping arrangements? Jace grins as he crosses his arms, his focus shifting to me.

Just trying to keep warm, Commander.

I’ll bet, he winks. Able, he spins to the Rogue who’s draping himself in a furry white hide, know any cute tribe-girls for when we head back?

By cute, do you mean hairy? Because yeah, he wraps the heavy cloak around him, I know lots of them.

Okay, Jace’s smile fades. The least hairy one? She cute?

She’s a baby. They don’t develop hair until they’re toddlers. But... he scratches his chin. I have some ideas for you.

No wonder they call you the Jack of Hearts, Clarence laughs, passing out the Carring fur. I don’t think you’ve gone to a place without finding a female.

"They find me, Jace grins, accepting a white cover. I just like to get the best option."

Think you’ll ever settle down? I tease as Reid takes the fur hide from Clarence.

Not if we’re always on the move. But maybe one day, he looks off into the distance. Settle down with some nice, semi-hairy tribe-girl, or maybe a cute mayan. Who knows, I could shack up in the FH with Tucker once he’s married the princess.

Princess? Blovid looks from Jace to the Rogue Leader. Which princess?

He jests, Qippert shakes his head.

No I’m not, Jace turns to the Arizal Leader. "Princess Ariana. She wants Tucker. Believe me. I’ve been around enough girls. I know that look. She wants him as bad as he wants her."

And Queen Ravan is aware of this? Blovid asks, glancing between Qippert, Clarence and Sampson.

No, Qippert shakes his head again. He is merely—

What’s the problem? I ask. Sansa is in line to become the next queen, right? Ariana told us that she had more freedom in selecting her future husband.

You guys talked about that? Tucker raises a brow.

It came up... yeah.

What... he clears his throat, what’d she say?

It does not matter what she said, Qippert exhales. The princess will marry a miyon. It is tradition.

Unless she breaks it and marries a human, I say.

It is not possible. The queen would never allow it.

...unless she does.

Sampson and Qippert were about to say something but Werzo beats them to it, making his way back to the spit for another piece of roasting Carring. But Tucker’s bound to Nerwolix, he tears a chunk free, how would it work?

We don’t even know where she is, the Rogue Leader frowns, pacing the room. She could be off planet by now.

The princess will be found, Sampson assures. On my honor as a Fychu, I will locate Ariana and restore her home.

Just remember I’ll need a place to crash at the FH, Jace cups Tucker’s shoulder. I need to bring the mayans somewhere.

"Can’t stay with them?" Able laughs.

Nope—separate sleeping quarters. Remember?

It sounds like I have missed much this last week, Blovid looks over at Sampson, secluded up here in the cold.

We’ll remedy that in the morning, Clarence winks. "Get you back to civilization. Warm civilization."

I have not met with Hozfin in ages. I look forward to our encounter.

When was the last time you spoke with him? I ask.

Oh... Blovid sits back, considering, must be some time now... he pauses, blanching as he looks to Sampson. Could it be since...?

But the Fychu simply nods.

What? Werzo asks through a mouthful of meat.

Silence fills the air.

Finally Blovid starts, keeping his tone soft, easy. The last major transgression that occurred on Nerwolix. A little over a hundred and fifty years ago.

What happened? I look between Blovid and Sampson but neither meet my eye. Another long quiet moment fills the space, weighing it down with grief and anxiety.

Reid, Sampson finally breaks the tension, motioning for the tunnel out. Would you mind making sure the first exit is secure? I’m not certain it was entirely closed upon our arrival.

Reid nods and moves to a stand. He extends his hand to me. Want to come with?

Sure.

You two don’t get lost now, Jace grins as I’m pulled to my feet.

With a wink, Reid threads his fingers in mine and leads us back down the tunnel and toward the first small room. The silence behind us continues and once everyone has disappeared into the quiet, I lean close to him. What was that about, do you think?

Obviously something happened.

Sampson didn’t tell you?

Reid shakes his head. He’s actually a pretty private person.

Did he ever tell you about a girl?

A girl? Reid laughs.

Like... a wife or something? Someone he loved?

No... he glances to me. Why?

"Vix said something about it once—when we were leaving Camp. He was praying under the Rinzal tree. She said he was praying to find her."

I don’t know, Reid frowns. Sampson never mentioned anyone.

Have you ever asked him?

We mostly talk about Arizal stuff. Sampson never gets into anything personal.

I’ve tried bringing it up a few times but he clams up.

Maybe we should stop trying. Maybe, he spins to me as we enter the first room lined with torches, it’s not our business.

But don’t you want to know?

Right now? he smirks, shaking his head as he walks me back to the wall. Right now I’m focused on something else. He has me against the rock, his hands on either side of my face. "I’m focused on my girl."

I’m lit up, and it has nothing to do with the torch inches from Reid’s hand.

Hey...

Hey what? he lightly kisses my neck, sending my pulse into overdrive. His hands slide to my hips as I place mine on his shoulders, squeezing.

We can’t do this, I close my eyes, growing dizzy as his lips trail down my skin. Oh but I want to. We really haven’t had a moment alone since that night on Nerwolix, when I asked Reid to make love to me. I wish I could do it again, ask him again. Right now. I wish I could feel him inside me, moving like his life depends on it, because I’ve been craving it. Craving the feeling of his hands on me and his breathlessness and the sounds he makes when he’s losing control.

Do what? his mouth moves to my throat.

Busted! Able laughs.

Reid’s head drops to my shoulder and my eyes jet open, finding the other Rogues in the room with us, smirking. After a long second, he pushes back, meandering toward the boys with a sigh. I try suppressing my blush while Reid runs his hands through his hair, pacing a foot away from me.

Sorry, Boss, Jace grins. Sampson wants a minute alone with the other Dofinikes.

What more is there to discuss? Able hooks his hands on his hips under the white Carring hide. We’re heading back to Nerwolix tomorrow.

Yeah, Werzo rubs his hands together, holding them over a nearby torch, not soon enough.

They’re talking about Ariana, Tucker mutters.

About her disappearance? I ask. Or about you two?

Both, I think. So... he gulps, inching closer, what’d she say about me?

Looking for some gossip there, Rogue Leader? Jace laughs.

I want to meet this princess, Able says. I’ve never seen Rogue Leader get like this over a girl.

She’s cute, Jace nods.

And Booker, Able turns to him, what do you think? You’re always so quiet. You think this princess is something special?

She’s pretty, yeah.

"She’s beautiful, Tucker whispers, lost in thought as he stares into nothing, some scene playing behind his eyes. He directs his attention to me again. Well?"

Uh... I stumble, quickly trying to remember what it was she’d said about him. Yeah... she said you were good looking, but quiet.

Tucker winces.

But... I start, feeling obligated to reassure him, that was only one time and in the beginning, before the toxin was even released. We didn’t really talk much about you after that... sorry. Mae and Pratt were mostly quizzing her on marriage laws and your name came up.

Wouldn’t it be cool if Rogue Leader did end up marrying a princess? Werzo laughs. That’d be sweet. All the Hunnis we could drink!

You could make little mer-babies! Able smiles.

Yeah, Jace turns to Tucker with a huge grin plastered on his face. Would that even work? Does she have...?

Don’t go there, Tucker shakes his head.

I’m just saying, Jace smiles. How would—

A thunderous explosion erupts behind Booker as a herd of furry blue creatures swarm through a hole in the rock wall. They’re scurrying on four legs, skinny wooden devices in hand and already firing.

PWEBOLES

Reid throws me behind him, blocking me with an outstretched arm. I’m in the closest thing to a corner, watching over his shoulder as the hip-high creatures pour into the cave in waves, aiming their tiny wooden weapons at us and shooting with great fervor. Blocked by Reid’s body, I have nowhere to go, nowhere to move except this tiny space behind him. One of the short blue creatures races for us and just as I take a step forward, I’m pelted in the shoulder, slammed with magnetic force into the wall behind me.

Whatever hit me stings immensely, but the pain is tolerable. It’s when I try to move that panic sets in. I’m stuck. As in, cemented to the wall. It’s like the Fiminer we used on Harrizel, except instead of keeping me attached to the ground, I’m trapped to the wall behind me. Still trying to pull myself free, more panic rises when the same blue creature pulls out a small blade. But Reid pummels into him, smashing him against the wall before he gets within feet of us.

Boss! Able cries, pinned to the rock further down. Behind you!

One of the creatures launches himself at Reid but he ducks, grabbing the back of the fur and slamming it face first into the wall. He does it again and the thing falls limp to the floor.

Sampson rushes in, followed by Blovid and Clarence, just as Werzo flies back to the rock. Booker goes to move but is hit in the stomach, drawn to the same wall, inches away from the other Rogue. Just as Tucker starts for them, all three Dofinikes morph into their true form, scurrying around the room, knocking the small blue creatures to the ground in the center of the floor. A few attempt climbing the walls but Sampson—I think it’s him—knocks their legs free, and they fall to the pile with their shaking brethren. Clarence catches the last one which tries rushing for the hole in the wall, but he’s whipped back, thrown into the rock next to me, and it slides down into a motionless lump.

Reid is in front of me, examining my shoulder. His brows pinch together in confusion and panic. Sampson! What is this?

The Fychu makes his way over as Clarence and Blovid address the others. Scanning my shoulder, he gestures to Reid. Step back.

Reid moves to my other side, watching as Sampson lifts his green hands and rubs them together. Closing his eyes, five long seconds pass before he swiftly scrapes my shoulder clean with his talon. There’s a sharp burning and suddenly, something sizzles on the ground.

I nearly fall to the floor with it, but Reid catches me.

Fallon, the Fychu says. Fallon—look at me. Are you alright?

I’m fine. What was that?

A Pwebole, Qippert approaches, assisted by Vix. The inhabitants of Larupip.

But what hit you, Sampson steadies me, is a nitnit. It’s a non-lethal magnetic device used to pin predators—or in this case, prey—to its corresponding target.

Little bastards, Werzo kicks one of the unconscious ones.

They are not violent, Qippert frowns as Vix helps him move closer to the pile of blue fur in the center of the floor. I wonder what motivated the attack.

Hey, Reid holds my face in his hands. We’ll get some Tregmint on it tomorrow, okay?

I nod, trying not to wince at the amount of pain still throbbing in my shoulder. It would only upset him.

Blovid, still in true form, stands over the shaking lot as the rest of us move in on them. Now that we’re not under attack, I can get a better look at our assailants. Basically knee-high balls of light blue fur, they have six skinny limbs—two arms and four legs that end in little hands and feet which resemble a monkey’s. Two wide, white eyes shift in the center of their furry face with a deep cobalt snout protruding a few inches below.

Well, Blovid probes, you seemed to have failed whatever mission you set out on.

They ramble to themselves in a buzzing hum of indecipherable tones.

Sampson shakes his head, One at a time please, and in English.

The one closest to him shifts between both sets of legs. Pweboles meant no harm, Fychu, he says in a nasally voice.

I beg to differ, Clarence laughs.

"Pweboles meant no harm. Pweboles would never willingly harm the Fychu or any Dofinike."

And what vendetta do you have against the humans? Blovid asks.

None, sir.

None? Blovid zips back into human form, Sampson and Clarence quickly following. Then why attack them?

They were the first ones the Pweboles saw.

Clarence exhales, running his fingers over his brows. We’re going to be here all night.

You are not making much sense, Blovid sighs.

What is your name? Sampson asks.

We are Pweboles.

"But your name... you are called?"