Cerolian Sagas: Ishara

By Mathew E Ruley

Fight for freedom, fight for the future.

Traitors working for the Kingdom of Aestellus lurk everywhere throughout the city of

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cerolian Arts
• Release date: Dec 2, 2022
• ISBN: 9781734812268

Mathew E Ruley

Mathew Ruley (AKA Vieryon) is an author, a gaming YouTuber, and an over-the-road truck driver from Michigan. The Cerolian Sagas is a series that is very close to his heart, as most of the characters within have been with him since its inception in 2007. He created Cerolian Arts and cultivated a small group of friends to help him create the series outside of any major publishing house. In his down time, when not thinking about the series while driving across the United States, he spends time playing and recording video games for his YouTube channel "Cerolian Republic" (formally 'The Gaming Cinaflix').

Book preview

Ishara Opener

Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental unless otherwise stated.

Copyright © 2022 by Mathew E. Ruley

Cerolian Sagas is a registered trademark. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without written permission of the Copyright owner except for use of quotations in a book review.

For more information, address: [e-mail]

First paperback edition December 2022

Book design by Mathew E. Ruley

Map, Logo, and Cover Design by Eleanor J Mathews

Cover Art by Ramon Macairap Hachiimon

Concept Art by Mylene Olavere Mikurei

Beta Reading by Jia Yue He

Editing by Heather Romanowski

Military Advisers:

Emora Dantelino - US Army, PMC

Adam Scott Lewis - US Army

Daniel Kinsman - USMC

Official Website

Facebook

YouTube

ISBN 978-1-7348122-4-4 (Paperback)

ISBN 978-1-7348122-5-1 (Hardback)

ISBN 978-1-7348122-8-2 (Audiobook)

ISBN 978-1-7348122-6-8 (E-Book)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022918537

First Edition

Dedicated to Emora Dantelino

Ishara - Half TitleEntry 7 - Winter's Bite

WINTER'S BITE - CHAPTER I

Noon | Agusta 22, 1241

Nevarria City – Industrial District

Kiera kept her hands buried in her pockets as she walked down the snow-covered sidewalk of Halifax Street. With a canvas backpack strapped over her shoulders, she was out on the town to see what she could buy with her most recent earnings. The smell of fresh bread lingered in the crisp winter air when she passed the bakery. Seeing people wander the same streets that were barren mere months ago was surreal to her. They went about their day like nothing had happened, and outwardly they all seemed content with the new status quo. Shops were re-opening, feeding families that hadn’t had a good meal in cycles while others browsed wares to repair their destroyed homes. The people of Nevarria could hide their emotions from the soldiers, Peace Officers, and bluescarves—but not from her. As an empath, she could feel the unease like a fog that had settled in every corridor of the damaged city.

Her golden eyes shifted to the skyline as she turned a corner toward the courtyard and came to a stop. The Capitol Building stood high off in the distance as one of the few structures that had been completely repaired since the war ended. The blue and white banners of the Kingdom of Aestellus draped on its dome could be clearly seen even from where she stood on the other side of Nevarria.

With a soft sigh of discontent, the Aluni pulled a small flask from her pocket. She then took a sip of the burning liquid within. Flakes of snow melted on her pale skin, only to freeze again instantly when the wind would blow. Using her wrist, she wiped the ice away and returned her flask to where it belonged.

Well, that’s a sight for sore eyes…. Kiera said to herself as she looked to her left.

Across the street was a familiar sign which had regained its spiritual glow that read Romanov’s Sweets. Stores around the building were in a general state of disrepair but the candy shop seemed to be in working order. Like the nearby bakery, the small building was attached to a miniature production center where all the candies were produced.

What do you think, Pearl? Want some treats?

A quick flash of glowing blue reflected off the nearby windows as her feline companion leaped into the air behind her. With two small flaps she generated the lift she needed to make it onto Kiera’s shoulder. Pearl landed gently, purring as she nuzzled up to the Aluni’s cheek and pushed aside her owner’s long purple hair. Kiera laughed heartily at Pearl’s reaction, reaching up to the feline to gently pat her on the head.

Buried deep in the warm confines of her right boot was her second companion. Using some tools her friend Alexis left behind, she had made a small alcove for Adriel to exist. It wasn’t very well-crafted, but it kept her three-centimeter-tall comrade from being crushed as she went about her day. Being underfoot was where he felt most comfortable, so he usually volunteered to ride along with her in his little nest. Kiera chuckled to herself as she felt a small tug on the bottom of her sock, and her silver and purple tail resumed its involuntary sway.

Don’t worry Adriel, I’ll get you something too.

She took care to mind her step across the snowy street. Most of the craters left from the war were simply covered with large metal slabs so that the tanks and Infantry Combat Vehicles could safely cross. The use of automobiles by civilians was prohibited, so full repair of the roads wasn’t much of a priority for the occupying forces. As she approached the building, she could hear the familiar voice of Anastasia broadcast over the radio. Nicknamed The Jewel of Nevarria, the vocalist had become one of Kiera’s favorites over the past half-cycle.

A small bell jingled as she stepped into the candy store and onto a black welcome mat. The light-blue patterns on her palms began to glow as the door came to a soft close behind her. When she looked down to see how much snow she had tracked in, the Aluni saw dozens of diminutive Mek’Vatir scurrying away from her. Some of the centimeter-tall beings had been in her path when she entered and were now struggling to free themselves from the snow beneath her tread. She stamped her feet a few times to knock the snow free so she wouldn’t make a mess. This snuffed out the ones who were still trapped underneath her boots, their souls causing the Symbiont patterns on her hands to glow as they were absorbed.

Months ago, all of the Mek’Vatir Kiera came across had white, gray, or black hair. Now, it seemed like their hair colors were much more vibrant all throughout the city. Pinks, blues, and other loud colors made them stick out like moving paint splatters in the snow. It was a strange development, but one she found cute nonetheless.

Comrade Kiera? a deep, familiar voice said from across the room. Little Miss Rovanoe?

Not so little anymore, Kiera replied, looking up to see the smiling Unlei shop owner who was crouched in front of a large rotating display stand.

He wore a silken white dress with a white sash around his waist that acted like a small belt of sorts. As the reptilian stood, his long and thick tail swayed behind him with its tip dragging gently across the floor. The light dress contrasted his dark black scales and the bright red Symbiont patterns that adorned his body. When she was young, Kiera recalled watching him work the hot equipment in the back of his shop. He even reached inside the ovens without mitts to pull out sheets of freshly baked cookies and other candies for her. Blaze Attunements were a wonderful thing, though in the winter Kiera vastly preferred her Frigid Attunement. She could feel her alcohol-induced mental defenses being overwhelmed by the thunderous wave of joy he felt at seeing her alive and well.

Goddess, you’ve grown into such a strong individual, haven’t you? And who is this on your shoulder?

Pearl had noticed the Mek’Vatir on the ground from her perch and was already picking out her targets. As the shopkeeper approached, she leaped from Kiera’s shoulder to the floor, landing directly atop a fleeing Mek with her front paws. A tiny spurt of white innards and black blood marked its death, and the cobalt crystal on her forehead shimmered as its spirit was trapped for later use.

Kiera’s arms were outstretched as he stepped forward, wrapping her in a tight embrace. The Unlei was strong, yet thin enough that Kiera could easily get her arms around him. Vlad was in good health, and quite young by Cerolian standards. He was well over a hundred cycles Kiera’s senior, though.

Her name’s Pearl, Kiera replied, I’m so glad you’re safe, Vlad. How’s Lucia?

She’s in the back tending to the machines. We don’t have many employees anymore, so we’ve been rotating duties until we can get our business back on its feet. I believe she is making a batch of Rainbites first this afternoon—your favorite if I recall correctly!

You do! They were the first thing I thought of when I saw your shop was open.

Haha! Predictable as ever, my dear. So where did you happen across a lunamir?

She found me actually. We met in the Southern Gothan Forest over half a cycle ago and she hasn’t left my side since.

Ah, little Pearl has a fantastic sense of the trustworthy I see, Vlad confidently said.

It’s very good to see you, Kiera replied.

Tell me, comrade, how are your parents faring?

The question cut her like a knife. Her fluffed silver tail came to a dead stop as her ears lowered and she remained stone silent. Kiera solemnly shook her head and watched as Vlad’s unwavering smile crumbled. She felt his hand grip her shoulder comfortingly as he masked his own heartbreak behind a thin veil of joy for her.

It’s been a tough few cycles, Kiera whispered.

Alexis?

She left for Sanova to conscript into the military.

I’m glad to hear she’s well at least. Do you need a place to stay?

No, Maya and Lain took us in.

Bless their hearts. Have you heard from Alexis since she left?

Yeah, actually. She was accepted into the Officers Training School a while back. In fact, her final’s tonight. I sent a letter a few days ago but I don’t think she’ll get it until she’s done with her exam.

I’ve always wondered what those entailed.

Trust me, I asked. Even she doesn’t know, Kiera said with a smile as she followed Vlad further into the shop. I think they keep that information secret so they can’t prepare.

She’ll do well. I’m surprised you didn’t follow her though, to the best of my knowledge they do allow pets on military bases and even in some airships.

It’s not where I belong, Kiera stated in a matter-of-fact tone. Maya and Lain need me more than the military does. I wish our new overlords saw fit to fix the roads and let us live our lives again.

Please, Vlad said in a hushed whisper as he covertly motioned toward an Aluni with a blue scarf in the corner drinking a cup of energy tonic. It’s not safe to say such things.

Damn bluescarves. Kiera quietly grumbled.

They hadn’t caught her attention just yet, but the reptilian shopkeeper seemed overwhelmingly nervous about her presence. Even the slightest show of dissent was enough to get you thrown into the detention center that was just around the corner. Thankfully, the jovial sound of music over the radio was loud enough to mask what they were saying.

Kiera grumbled lowly, looking to the ground as they walked. A Mek that had procured a small crumb of candy bark was trying to pull it along directly in their path. She watched it disappear beneath the rough red pads of the shopkeeper’s foot, who had purposefully adjusted his gait to catch the tiny being off guard. All the red patterns across Vlad’s scales began to glow as he continued along. Its spirit had been captured, and its carcass was pressed deep into one of the many cracks of Vlad’s pad to be trampled repeatedly.

You’re a fan of K-Lily’s station too? Kiera asked with a tinge of excitement in her voice.

"Why yes indeed! She seems to be the only one who has access to The Jewel of Nevarria’s newest singles. It’s like listening to history in the making."

Oh I know! Anastasia’s such a good singer, I just wish I was able to see her live before the shells fell.

Her performances are excellent, I assure you! So, comrade. Were you planning on getting anything other than Rainbites today? Vlad asked as he stepped around the counter to stand in front of the old and partially rusted cash register.

Do you have plain Choco-Drops?

Of course! With or without the Mek center?

Without please, the smaller ones.

Understood.

He turned around to a small drawer, retrieving a white canvas bag and a stamp. After pressing it on an ink pad, he pushed it into the fabric to leave a series of numbers. The counter top itself had several doors that lead directly into a refrigeration chamber. He opened one and brought a scoop inside to gather the Mek-less variety and deposited them into the bag for her.

Oh! Kiera said softly, Do you have any Mek-infused fruit treats for Pearl? Maybe some Avriberries?

Yes of course! He laughed. We wouldn’t dream of leaving her out now, would we?

He reached deeper into the refrigerated area to grab onto a small, sealed pouch filled with blue berries. They each had a small incision on the side that was sealed by a sticky candy-glue. He then closed the door, setting everything on the counter top as Kiera examined the new Avriberry Mek container.

I haven’t seen a bag like this before. New preservation bags?

Vlad took the bag and peeled one side back. It was clear and had an airtight seal on the top that would only work if you pinched it together in just the right way. When he opened it up, he pulled out a small Avriberry and offered it to her. Kiera took it between her index finger and thumb. The skin of the Avriberry was thin enough that she could see the full outline of a Mek trapped inside. It was still lethargically moving and conscious, though it didn’t seem to have enough strength to escape its confines.

How do you get them in there anyway? She asked, Wouldn’t cutting each berry take forever?

We have a machine in the back that lets us put them into any fruit with ease. You haven’t had an Avriberry SweetMek, have you?

No.

Well, try it! I insist. This pouch is on the house, as are the Rainbites. I’ll only charge you for the Choco-Drops today.

I really couldn’t… You’re just starting back up.

Oh, I insist. I won’t accept anything more than that.

Kiera shook her head with a sigh as she popped the small berry into her mouth and rolled it to the left between her molars. She bit down just enough to get a burst of sweet juice, allowing the flavor to wash over her for a moment. As the trapped soul attempted to pull itself free from the half-smashed fruit, she slowly bit down. There was a secondary tiny burst of flavor that was subtly tart as the Mek’s body was broken, left in the same half-crushed state as the berry a moment ago.

Yep, that is pretty good, Kiera cooed in between bites. The Mek survived for several agonizing seconds before the Aluni’s markings shimmered back to life. A bit sweeter than I remember Avriberries tasting though.

My dear, you’re at a candy shop. Everything is sweeter here! One moment, I’ll go get Lucia and fill this bag up with freshly made Rainbites for you.

Kiera nodded, and as Vlad walked toward the doorway leading to the production room, his scaly red patterns came to life once more. She could see the markings illuminate through his thin white dress. Once he had left, she glanced at the bluescarf—who had now taken an interest in her—as casually as she could. Kiera couldn’t feel any malicious intent coming from her, only a bit of amusement as she watched the lunamir’s antics from afar.

Pearl came hopping around the corner chasing a few Mek across the floor. Instead of catching them outright, she would hop into their path and bat at them to get them to run in another direction before trotting off after them again. The carcass of her first victim was still stuck tight on her front paw, though it had been worn flat and was collecting dust from her playing. A few tried to escape the lunamir by climbing one of the display stands, but the structures were designed to keep Mek that had fallen to the floor from mingling with their sanitary food-grade counterparts.

Kiera! Lucia said brightly as she appeared from the back room.

The Aluni removed a white apron that was covered in colorful dust and dye, then hung it on the wall. Using the hanging fabric, she wiped some excess powder from her ivory arms before making her way over. There were still a few dozen little black-and-white smears of crushed Mek gore on her brown skirt and soft corset. The leather of which came up in straps over her shoulders on either side of her chest, and beneath was a white collared blouse with short puff sleeves. Removing the apron released the candymaker’s two long, pink braids, tucked away to keep her hair from getting caught in the machinery. Vlad followed her closely, picking bits of candy from her fluffy pink tail.

It’s been a while! Kiera happily said.

Yes it has! Lucia replied as she turned to bat Vlad’s hands away. You can take care of that later, hun.

If we wait until then it’ll have set in. He protested, Let me get the brush, it’ll take but a moment.

Lucia nodded reluctantly before offering the large sack of Rainbites to Kiera, whose eyes widened at the sight. She was expecting Vlad to fill one of the smaller pouches, but instead, she was being offered a full kilogram bag of them.

Oh my Goddess, that's a lot of Rainbites, I couldn’t… Really. Not for free at least. Kiera said shyly with the purple tip of her tail down between her legs.

I made these just for you! Well, I just found out you were here a moment ago, but I knew you’d be coming along shortly and we have cycles of spoiling to do! Your backpack looks positively empty, dear, we need to fix that.

Vlad had pulled up a chair behind her to take a seat. With a brush in hand, he began grooming his partner’s tail. The Unlei looked content where he sat, with both feet on the ground and his own slender reptilian tail swaying across the floor behind him. Every so often he would pluck a Mek out of her fur and drop it next to his foot before stamping it into the ground beneath the cracked red pads of his feet.

I’ll be sure to repay you somehow, Kiera sheepishly said.

Nope nope! We have a new aquamelon flavor now too, here…. Lucia replied as she opened up the sack.

She rummaged through the small candies to find a pair of bright blue drops and pulled them out. After cinching up the top of the bag, she offered the two candies for another taste test. Kiera accepted them, looking down to the drops in her hands. They were small, just a little over a centimeter from top to bottom, and teardrop-shaped to make them look like little raindrops. Each had a candy outer shell, and beneath it she could see the perfect outline of a Mek. Both of the little creatures had their arms and legs splayed out in different ways like they were dropped onto the candies before being entombed.

Are you able to stay and chat for a while? Vlad asked as he continued his work on Lucia’s tail.

I really shouldn’t, Kiera responded, tossing the two drops into her mouth, I was going to go over to the park for a bit before heading back home. Lain and Maya might need me to help with closing tonight. It gets hectic when the sun goes down sometimes.

As the Mek were crushed between her teeth they released a small burst of sweet berry-melon flavor this time. She smiled, her tail swaying feverishly behind her as she savored every second of the candy that reminded her so much of her childhood before the war. Both of the Mek’Vatir trapped in the sweets had been alive and aware. After their deaths, their spirits were caught and consumed by Kiera’s Symbiont which once again made her ice-blue patterns illuminate.

Kiera then pulled her backpack off her shoulders and unlatched the top flap. Reaching into one of the magazine pouches that lined the inside, she pulled out a small coin purse and took the kilogram bag of Rainbites. It was set inside first so that the Choco-Drops and Avriberry SweetMek wouldn’t get crushed under its weight. The purple-haired Aluni then pulled a single Avriberry SweetMek from its bag before placing both bags inside. She took note of a series of numbers on each bag as she put them away, two strings on top of each other. After she latched the backpack’s top, she looked to Vlad and Lucia with a bright and mischievous smile.

I forgot how much I loved those little treats, and that new flavor is absolutely to die for… How much for the lot? Kiera asked.

Twelve Cen should do it! Lucia replied with haste.

Perfect.

Kiera hastily pulled out twenty Cen and set it on the table, covering it with her hands as she slid it forward. She tossed her coin purse back in her backpack and put it on before Lucia had a chance to count how much was there. Once it was all said and done, Kiera sheepishly put her hands behind her back, trying her best to look as innocent as possible.

There’s twenty here, dear.

Oh, and I put my coin purse away already. What a pity. Looks like you’ll just have to take the rest as a tip. By the way, what’s with the numbers on the bags?

They’re expiration dates, you sly Ishar, Lucia said as she shook her head and sighed in defeat, The first is when the Mek’s expected to suffocate—about four months or so. The second is when the candy expires.

She then pulled her coins from the counter and put them into the individual slots on the register. It was still a significant discount, and she appreciated how much Kiera wanted to help the store in its time of need. Vlad laughed as he leaned in closer to Lucia’s tail and plucked another Mek from its fluffy hiding place. He held it up by its blue hair for them both to see as it struggled for freedom.

How do you always manage to get so many of these in your tail of all places? he asked in a bemused tone. Have you even had your dailies yet? Or anything of substance to eat?

Nope, probably not, Lucia responded, I haven’t felt hungry yet. Just a bit of a headache, but I’ll be okay.

Æther Sickness can creep up on you if you aren’t careful.

Lucia instinctively tried to wiggle her tail, which was still being held in place by Vlad so he could finish cleaning it out. The brush he had was hanging from his wrist, and it was filled with pink and white fluff to the point where it was almost useless. Thankfully all the containers of candy were sealed to maintain their freshness, so no fluff could find its way inside. Leaning her elbows on the table, she lifted her left foot off the ground and moved her toes so her black flat’s heel would pop off and dangle in front of him.

Would you mind, then? Lucia asked sweetly.

Vlad moved the Mek over the opening that she had created and dropped the tiny creature inside. When she felt it fall against her arch, she stepped back down and adjusted her foot so her heel slipped back in properly. After giving her tail a few gentle pats, Vlad stood up and tossed the fluff he gathered with his brush into a nearby trash can along with a Mek or two he hadn’t noticed.

I’ll head upstairs and make you a nice meal if you’ll tend the store.

What are you making? she asked in response.

A surprise. I’d ask if you would like to stay for lunch, Kiera, but I feel I know the answer already.

You’re right, Kiera said, her tail still swaying. I really shouldn’t keep Maya and Lain waiting too long. They might get worried… More than normal.

It was an absolute pleasure seeing you again, Vlad said as he bowed to Kiera.

Likewise, Kiera replied.

Vlad came around to the front of the counter and gave her a quick goodbye hug before heading to the production area of the building. His long tail swayed behind him as he passed Lucia, lifting it so the slender tip ran along the underside of her chin leaving a trail of red aura energy behind like a kiss.

All the Mek around the city have been getting more vibrant hairstyles lately. You notice it too? Kiera asked, tilting her head as one of her pointed ears lowered curiously.

Manufactured Mek, Lucia replied without skipping a beat, they were originally military surplus before being spread around the city. Getting a new shipment of monochromatic-haired Mek is impossible nowadays. I hear even the Novalin Defense Force uses the manufactured ones now as their standard issue. A whole new industry!

Ah, makes sense, Kiera replied as Pearl hopped up from the ground to her shoulder.

The feline sniffed at her backpack, pawing at the top gently while transparent blue wings slowly flapped on her back. They disappeared, turning into luminescent dust before sparkling out altogether.

How adorable! Lucia squeaked, leaning forward to pet the feline.

Pearl mewed loudly, positioning herself on Kiera’s shoulder so she could be adequately pet. When the feline felt Lucia’s fingers in her fur, she moved so that the shopkeeper would scratch the exact spot she wanted. After a few seconds of petting, the feline turned her head to lick the shopkeeper’s hand.

Such a sweet lunamir you have here.

She really is, Kiera said as she offered Pearl the one Avriberry SweetMek she kept out of her pack.

Pearl happily nuzzled at the berry before cautiously nibbling it out of Kiera’s grip. When it was safely in her mouth, she began chomping down on it. The Mek inside was released for a mere second, using its moment to struggle before being swallowed alive and whole. Pearl then purred in approval, licking her lips clean as she rubbed the top of her head against Kiera’s cheek.

You’re both welcome at the Pub if you’d like to stop by tonight, Kiera added.

That’s a rather promising idea! Vlad hasn’t been out of the shop since our grand re-opening, it’ll do him good to let loose and get a few drinks. That, and we have an incredibly special day coming up.

I’m sure we’ll have a room for you too if you don’t want to make the trip back on foot. Lain cooks the best breakfast meals.

Absolutely lovely. I’ll talk to him over lunch and hopefully we’ll see you there.

Unable to breathe, the Mek’Vatir that had been trapped in Lucia’s flat was still barely clinging onto life. It could feel its body spreading to accommodate the immense pressure, weakening its struggles even more as the wall of soft and damp skin kept it from escaping. A simple shift of her weight was enough to overwhelm its defenses. The sky blue swirling patterns on Lucia’s arms and legs illuminated as it was crushed flat in an insignificant little pop that Lucia didn’t even notice.

The sound of the doorway opening echoed through the store as Kiera waved back to Lucia. With a backpack full of candies, she left feeling better than she had in cycles. Life in Nevarria was hard at times, but there were still people worth sticking around for.

They were worth fighting for.

WINTER'S BITE - CHAPTER II

Afternoon | Agusta 22, 1241

Nevarria City – Industrial Park

It was hard for her to tell exactly how cold it was in the city. Some people walked around bundled up in jackets and heavy winter clothing, while Frigid Attuned Cerolians like her could wear whatever they liked so long as they had an adequate source of Mek’Vatir to sustain their inherent abilities. As Kiera wandered through the snow toward the park at the end of the block, she took a moment to replenish herself. The markings on her hands began to glow as she progressed, but it wasn’t like before when she had been taking the souls of the Mek’Vatir. She could sustain it as long as she wanted, and the shine had a strangely ethereal presence surrounding it like a mirage.

Adriel was trapped with his head in the space between her great and first toe, while his body was beneath the ball of her foot. The alcove she made was only deep enough to keep him from being crushed flat. She could feel him wheeze with each step she took, forcing her little comrade to breathe in tandem with her stride.

The energy that he gave her was seemingly infinite, but it helped to calm and rejuvenate her. It was a nice and quick way to pick herself up if she was ever feeling tired or exhausted. And with him always pressed directly against a pure gathering point, she didn’t have to worry about Æther Sickness the way everyone else did. These gathering points were uniform in all the races of Cerolia: palm of the hands, soles of the feet, and digestive system.

If a Mek died within three centimeters of any of these points, or within the digestive system, their soul could be absorbed fully. Otherwise, most of the energy was wasted and the Symbiont could not properly take in the life as sustenance. Two souls per day to be healthy for the average person, four for some with demanding attunements. Otherwise, the Symbiont would become malnourished and take steps to force its host to feed on life. This starvation, is what was known to the people of Cerolia as Æther Sickness.

I hope you know how much I appreciate you, little guy, Kiera said, knowing he could hear her muffled voice enough to understand.

Pearl followed behind, hopping in each of her snowy footprints happily as the blue gem in the middle of her forehead began to glow. The Mek she had swallowed alive had succumbed to the acids of her stomach, giving her more spiritual fuel for her ethereal wings.

As Kiera stepped around the corner to see what the park had become, it felt as though she had run face-first into an invisible wall of despair. Many of the trees had been cut down, replaced by a snowy field with poorly cleared walkways. There was an ascendance wheel on the park’s far side that she remembered riding as a child to see everything from the air with ease. It was destroyed, the metal support beams were rusted beyond repair and birds were roosting in some of the wheel’s passenger carts. The pond near the center of the park had frozen over in the cold. Some benches were all still intact though, and most of them had been uncovered by the civilians who frequented the area now.

On the same block just beyond the park was the Industrial Detention Center. Kiera couldn’t remember what was there before the conflict began, but the enormous walls were likely part of the previous complex. Large watchtowers were erected hastily so that guards could keep vigil over the detention center’s population. Poorly constructed steel pillboxes were on either side of the doorway.

Goddess…. Kiera said in disbelief as she started walking along one of the park’s footpaths.

The occasional sound of a gunshot could be heard ringing through the air. Kiera winced and retrieved her flask from her pocket to take a drink, unable to look away from the monumentally disturbing visage in front of her. The facility was structured like a castle, with large modular walls surrounding the building that was chosen to be their prison camp. She could see people walking along the top between lookout posts, presumably on hastily constructed wall-walks that were out of sight. A miasma of dark and foreboding emotions seemed to seep from the detention center, mixed with strange tinges of sadistic glee. She remembered it as factory once, but now it had been converted into this building of terror. Directly across the park from the detention center was a partially demolished apartment complex where the workers lived before the war. It wrapped around the far corner from where she was, connected by a skywalk over the street to a secondary apartment complex. She cleared her throat uncomfortably, turning to leave.

Disgusting, isn’t it?

Kiera had been startled by the mix of lingering emotions and wasn’t paying attention to who was directly around her. She looked at the closest bench, and immediately felt some relief. Although her flask was still quite full of alcohol, she brought it back to her lips and let the warming liquid flow to its end.

Lena? Kiera said, wincing with a light cough as she capped the now empty container.

The one and only. You really can drink, can’t you? It’s only a hair past noon.

I need it, Kiera said as she timidly sat down on the bench. Every. Last. Drop. Goddess, what have they done to this place?

They tore down trees because they obstructed the tower’s view, not sure when the ascendance wheel went down. I am glad to see you made it through the war though. How’s Maya and Lain?

Lena leaned back, setting a purse on the bench between them both. As Kiera looked at the Incana, the wind gently blew through her feline comrade’s white fur. She was trying to ignore the detention center and the miasma of despair vying for her attention. All the light-blue stripes across her childhood friend’s face, arms, and swaying tail seemed so surreal to see now. They were both children the last time they were together. Her emotions, however, were a bit harder to feel. The stoic expression she had seemed calm and focused, but a hint of nervousness would peek through from time to time… Anticipation?

They’re doing well. You see me at the Pub or something? I don’t remember ever running into you there or telling you I was staying with them.

Lena didn’t respond directly, she only turned her gaze back to the detention center in front of them. Pearl hopped up to Kiera’s lap, seemingly sensing her owner’s unease. Kiera wanted to walk away and return to the safety of the Pub’s walls, but part of her demanded she stay. The purple-haired Aluni removed her backpack and set it aside to get a bit more comfortable.

You like it there? Lena asked.

Can’t really complain. We had it a bit better on the outskirts of the city than most of the people here did. Is your mother doing well?

She will be, Lena said stoically as she looked back at Kiera. It’s been a bit of a rough run for us, but we’ve managed to keep out of trouble, until recently. I’m here to rectify that situation... Would like to see our library again someday, too.

Wait, you’re not running the library with your mother anymore?

Haven’t so much as stepped paw in there since this shitshow started. But it won’t be long now.

Definitely need to check out a few new books when things go back to normal. The ones I have at home are getting old.

Which ones?

A few of the giant-stompy-monster sorts. Some other more technical military books, and a couple of romance novels.

Romance novels?

They’re a bit strange to me, really. Kiera said in a sigh, I understand wanting to be betrothed, but I’ve never really understood the allure of things like Aura-play…. Platonically or romantically.

Honestly, I never took you for the type to read such things.

Lain and Maya checked them out, so I had a pretty limited selection.

Right, Lena said with a light chuckle, I’m sure my mum and I can waive the late fees so long as they’re in good order. Did going to that temple up in the mountains help you out with those empathic abilities of yours?

They taught me some things, but drinking’s just an easier way for me to cope with it all.

Sometimes taking the easy path isn’t the best in the long run, comrade. Just seems like the wrong way to go about things.

Kiera pulled the flap off the top of her backpack and pushed aside the two pouches within to reach her Rainbites. Unlacing the top of the kilogram bag, she grabbed a small handful and offered them to Lena. The Incana looked at them, and her stoic nervousness began to shift into a nostalgic joy of her own.

You know, Lena began, you and Alexis were the only people I ate these with. Even though she didn’t really like the Mek-filled ones.

Lena chose a few of the red ones she was offered and rolled them into her palm. They fell between the three light-blue pads on her hand as Kiera began to snack on the living sweets. After looking a bit closer at the candies, the Incana carefully lifted one between her index finger and thumb.

Look, Lena said softly.

She held a Rainbite up between the soft pads of her fingertips to show Kiera what she had found. Instead of a single Mek trapped beneath the layer of candy, there were two. One was in a normal spot in the center, while the second was awkwardly wrapped around the bottom. The additional Mek had managed to free a single arm, which was fruitlessly digging at the candy-covered ankle of the other.

You know what that means, don’t you? Kiera asked.

Lena smiled slyly and nodded as her white tail swayed in the snow. She tossed the Rainbite into her mouth and began to chew, freeing the trapped Mek only for them to be flattened between her teeth. With each death, all the pads on her hands and her sky blue striped patterns illuminated. Her green eyes temporarily turned sky blue and glimmered as well.

Aye. Too bad I can’t share the good luck with everyone else here. I hope it rings true; we’ll all need it.

The low rumble of engines off in the distance caught Kiera’s attention just as a small convoy of military-style vehicles appeared from each direction. They obscured the pillboxes from view, coming to a stop in front of the main entryway. The first driver was an abnormally tall black-furred Incana with long white hair that was pulled back into a ponytail. A tuft of neon green fur on the tip of her tail was the only other color she could see from a distance. As the first driver reached into the truck, the other driver stepped out of their vehicle with paperwork already in hand.

The second driver was an even taller Aluni with a bob-style sandy blond haircut and a blond tail, both tipped with white. She was wearing a black beret with a matching ribbon fluttering in the breeze. Kiera couldn’t tell her attunement from a distance, since her heavy clothing obscured any patterns she might have. The footwear they both wore was a bit strange, with something akin to tubes wrapping around their ankles. Their emotions were like bright sparks against the wall of darkness that was the detention center. Walking together toward a small door, the pair looked as though they were laughing and trading muffled jokes before they both ducked to get inside.

Large flakes of snow began to fall from the sky as the clouds completely obscured the sun and Cerolia’s pale blue rings. The weather was shifting toward the worst.

Delivery? Wonder why they don’t just use an airship to drop stuff inside.

The coming storm’s probably got something to do with it. Those two have already made a few trips into the complex today, impeccable timing really.

How long have you been out here?

Once again, Lena didn’t respond to her question. Kiera watched as the two delivery workers were let into a nearby office to check in with the guard staff. The dark and fearful emotions Kiera felt from beyond the wall began to fade to other odd sensations.

Anxiety… Anticipation... Anger...

Looking toward the guard towers, she could see one of the shadowy soldiers retrieve a device inside and bring it up to speak. Wailing alarms filled the air as guards rushed to take up arms, and the loudspeakers nearby echoed the soldier’s commanding voice.

Attention citizens of Nevarria, the soldier began, You are all hereby ordered to temporarily return to your homes and evacuate the immediate area. I repeat, all citizens in the vicinity are hereby ordered to return to your homes and evacuate the immediate area. Do not resist! Do not resist!

Soldiers on the walls all turned their attention inward as the disturbance intensified. Kiera looked around to the few soldiers on the ground level that began ushering citizens away from the premises. They were few, so both Kiera and Lena were overlooked as they sat in the middle of the open snowy field. Pearl quaked in Kiera’s lap, cuddling up to her as the purple-haired Aluni looked to her comrade.

Maybe we should get going. I need to get to an actual shop before I go home…. Kiera nervously said.

Lena tossed the remaining handful of Rainbites into her mouth and stood up, stretching in place. The stoic, calm demeanor returned to her as she looked over her shoulder to Kiera who was still sitting on the bench with her pet in her lap. She smirked to the Aluni, her green eyes turning blue again as yet another Mek perished in her maw.

Some people get to go home, others go to work.

With that, she walked away. Her boots left prints in the snow that were deliberately cleared by her tail. The falling flakes began to thicken in the sky, and the visibility drastically diminished. As Kiera stood up from her seated position and