Star of Avalon Book 1: Awakening: Aether Star Chronicles, #1

By KJ Davis

Sol Date 3498.08.21: In Earth's 35th century, Sergeant Solan Marcus Adams, a hybrid lion humanoid, called a Hy-Gen, is the team leader of the Apex Special Forces unit, the Mavericks. Like all the other Hy-Gens, Solan and his rag-tag team follow orders while struggling daily to navigate prejudice and mistreatment. Apex Units might hold the highest completion rating for space missions that are too difficult for humans to handle, but at the end of the day, a mutt is still a mutt. Now, a new assignment comes up with questionable motives and impossible parameters. Can Solan and his team reach their objective, before everything they were created to serve and protect is destroyed?

In another verse, Lunessa is the leader of the Ma'u, an ancient feline race that has roamed the cosmos for countless ages. Thrust into the role of leadership at an early age after disaster massacred her entire family, Luna now searches for a balance between the responsibilities of her station and her desires for love and solace. Yet, her recent nightmares become warnings of a new threat on the horizon. Will the snow leopard Ma'u be able to protect her home from a long-forgotten weapon spreading across the land? From the shadows, a darker question whispers: Are these new premonitions heralding the return of a monster from her past?

 

Meanwhile, in the shadows between, a sinister puppet master manipulates everything to his dark whims. His obsession? To attain the sacred treasure that will grant him dominion over all: the Aether Star of Avalon. With minions enacting his devious plans, he weaves a web of deceit and diversion to capture the ultimate power for himself. Will the Dark Master succeed, or can our heroes push back the Darkness with the light of Hope? 

• Language: English
• Publisher: KJ Davis
• Release date: Nov 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798985874549

Book preview

Aether Star Chronicles

Star of Avalon book cover

Contents

Star of Avalon Book 1:

Preface

Content Warning

Prologue - Awakening

The Dark Master

The Dream

The Mutt

Eldamar's Secrets

The Strangers

Solce in the Solar Garden

Elemental Energy

An Odd Briefing

Morning Arrangements

Flight of Fancy

A Place in Life

The Guardian and the Watchtower

The Hangar

The Appointment

Helping the Wardens

Adjusting Parameters

Friends and Allies

Promises

Questions and Answers

Another Mission

A Shadow's Plight

Confusion and Frustration

Hidden Secrets

Nightmares and Premonitions

Tactics and Plans

Battle at the Sword Wall

The Pluto Crater

Aldabar and the Door

Mission FUBAR

Falling from the Sky

The General's Worst Fear

Epilogue - Prophecy

Appendix

Glossary

Map of Avalon

Map of Eldmar

Map of Outer Sol System

Table of Illustrations

Acknowledgements

Artists of Aether Star Chronicles

Translations

Author Bio

Credits and Links

Continue the Saga

Book cover background

Star of Avalon Book 1:

Awakening

By

KJ Davis

Cover Art designed by KJ Davis with artists Blanchy, PK Patart, and Purvi Jhavar

Copyright © 2023 and beyond

KJ Davis and A Little Help co.

All rights reserved.

This is a literary work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are based on the author’s imagination or are used fictionally. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, businesses, companies, events, and/or locations is entirely coincidental.

No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without the prior written permission of the copyright owner, expect for brief use in a book review or interview with the author.

To request permissions, contact the author at: [e-mail]

Author’s website: https://kjdauthor.wordpress.com

English versions:

eBook ISBN: 979-8-9858745-4-9

Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9858745-5-6

Audiobook ISBN: 979-8-9858745-6-3

Spanish version:

eBook ISBN: 979-8-9858745-7-0

Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9858745-8-7

Neurodivergent/Dyslexic Accessible version:

Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9858745-9-4

First paperback edition: November 4, 2023

Printed by: Draft-2-Digital & Amazon

Published by: A Little Help Company through Draft2Digital

11937 W 119th St #179

Overland Park, KS 66213-2216

www.alittlehelp.com

www.draft2digital.com

This book is dedicated to my own ‘Home Tree’: Many moons ago, you told me, Never forget where you come from. You have always been my silent foundation, helping me face the storms of life with courage and grace. I will never forget you. -KJ

Book cover background

Preface

Hello, Laita-lyë -Greetings (Elvish), Fekiikiri -Greetings (Draconic), and Welcome to the multiverse of the Aether Star Chronicles. You are about to embark on an epic journey. A literary adventure into the realm of fantasy and science fiction in this crossover series. During your travels, you will notice three distinct features in this series that are based on a cornerstone theme: the beauty of diversity.

The first is the employment of several fonts*, denoting the different dialects and genres of the narrative. This unique format allows you, the reader, to experience the beautiful variation of this multifaceted multiverse. It provides characters within these pages with their own voice and separates the differing themes of the story, or a noteworthy dialect. In some cases, the switch between fonts will also help the reader to know when we travel from one genre to the other and back again.

The next hidden treasure within your reading adventure is the variety of Xeno Linguistics you will come across. Xeno means ‘foreign or alien, and Linguistics means ‘relating to languages. These unique and diverse languages will highlight the elegance, power, mystery, and darkness of the different character species. Translations in italic (such as the Elven and Draconic greetings above) or Footnotes, peppered throughout the book, provide you with a deeper understanding and context to this engaging saga.

Another gift to my readers is a number of ‘old school’ literary features that seem to have fallen by the wayside with modern published works. These include a table of contents, an appendix with a glossary for unique words or concepts, and maps of important landscapes or reference points.

Finally, as a person with mild dyslexia, I found the standard books of my time to be taxing, although I had a voracious[1] appetite for reading. At an early age, though, I discovered that books and series which incorporated images were more enriching to my reading experience. They provided me with a better context for the mass of words on the pages that I tried so hard to decipher. In honor of those literary masterpieces, you will discover a cornucopia of artwork that will add another dimension to your own reading experience within this novel.

The images intertwined with the descriptive details of the narrative have been created by a group of artists that are beginning to branch out into the professional world of art. As a new author, I chose to collaborate with new artists so that each of our creative works could support the other. The resulting effect of different art styles and diverse images that you will encounter, I believe, provides a deeper appreciation for a multifaceted story.

These keystone features allow the depth and beauty of differences to shine through with every font, word, image, and detail. As a descriptive writer, it is my fervent[2] wish that you will become lost among the pages of this chronicle. Perhaps you will take a flight over the vast ancient forest or delve into the twisting tunnels of a dragon’s lair. You might relish technical schematics of future technology or enjoy researching (real) astrophysics theories. Your experience will be guided by the beauty of your own unique perceptions as you delve into the epic saga of the Aether Star Chronicles.

Love and Blessings,

-KJ Davis

*PS: Regrettably, for those readers who are diving into the Aether Star Chronicles multiverse via an eBook, you may not be able to enjoy the complete richness and detail of the multiple font format. Your device will automatically change everything to one, standard – and dull in my opinion – font type. This is an unfortunate ‘forced feature’ of eBook publishing that is out of my hands. I encourage those who would like to enjoy the complete immersive experience of this series to check out the physical versions. More information on where to find a physical copy is provided in the back of the eBook.

Content Warning

This literary work contains subject matter that may be considered controversial or sensitive. This fiction book is intended for a mature audience of young adult to adult readers. The story you are about to read explores the following themes based on four main categories of explicit content.

*** Warning Spoilers Ahead!!! ***

Foul Language: strong, but infrequent – based on authentic military jargon

Sexual Innuendo: detailed description of an intimate scene

Violence: infrequent descriptions of brutality and violent battle scenes

Other: subject matter includes brief notations of murder, genocide, cannibalism, stillbirth, prejudice, pollution, and deforestation

Awakening comet

Prologue - Awakening

Chapter One

The vastness of the universe, with its countless celestial bodies, can be overwhelming in the never-ending depth of darkness. A sense of powerlessness can easily overcome the most fearless spirit. Past thousands of galaxies filled with sparkling starlight. Beyond hundreds of nebulae forming visions of heavenly multi-colored clouds, the immense void of the multiverse dominates all existence. Yet within this endless abyss, a simple rule prevails.

Across space and time, a comet streaks past a lone ribbon of asteroids, followed by a silent whisper…

Through the darkness that blankets both the known and unknown, the smallest light can fill nothingness with the strongest energy in all creation.

Magical Red Comet Awakening by KJD

Slowly. Silently. As if waking from an eternal slumber…

A solitary asteroid, barely the size of a child's ball, shifts and spins independently of its neighbors. It spirals upward as the crust of countless ages breaks free. A red light starts to pulse in a heartbeat rhythm that seems to reach out in search of something. Suddenly, the orb of fire bursts out from the asteroid belt. It streaks off into the void. Its blinding radiation pushing back the darkness, like the first rays of dawn breaking through the mists of twilight. The sun’s warmth and glow bringing not only a new day, but the singular promise of hope against the shadows of nightmares and dreams…

The Dark Master

The Dark Master

Chapter Two

An eerie green light faded in and out of the darkened chamber, casting an ominous glow across the curved, metallic walls. A muffled humming sound filled the air. Several small lights blinked. Smooth, black consoles grew out from giant crystal clusters at the edge of the room. Numerous pipes and conduits, like vines and tree branches, stretched out from the workstations. The conduits twisted their way across the ceiling and combined in a sinister tangled mass hanging in the center of the room. Inside, another cluster of giant crystals surrounded one enormous, black shard. Gradually, the green light pulsed through the metal creepers towards the core as something stirred within.

A round set of double doors slid open to one side. Two Elven forms entered the dark chamber. Tall and slender, but drastically different from the ancient race known to the multiverse. Millennia ago, Elves journeyed from planet to planet, throughout the stars, as they visited new worlds. These celestial beings had long, extended lifespans allowing them to share venerable knowledge across space and time. This near-immortal existence also became the foundation for their mannerisms and appearance. Their language was calm, thoughtful, and spoken with a dialect that was as soothing as a lullaby. They wore elegant clothing and acted with deliberate grace in their movements.

The two Elves in the chamber though, diverged completely from their ancient cousins. Their actions were rushed and aggressive. Sleek black uniforms covered their bodies with fitted boots, ready for any environment. Snow-white hair was cut short around their pointed ears and contrasted sharply against blue or purple skin. Yet, the most striking difference between these, and the fanciful tales of their ancestors, was a set of horns sprouting out of their heads. Curved, bony growths that gave them an oddly demonic appearance. These were the Dark Elves, the Moriquen. Horned elfenfolk with ice-cold, blue eyes.

The taller Elf, with a set of ram's horns curling around dark cobalt ears, moved to a nearby console. Softly glowing symbols, reacting to his touch, began to appear over the workstation. Meanwhile, his assistant, with a small pair of crooked goat horns curving backwards, silently stared at the central mass. The ominous green light continued to feed into the black crystal.

Eying the dark structure wearily, the second Elf studied the pulsing radiation flowing through the vine conduits. De sinwa-ki gail, Daedhel? -Are we certain of the signs, Daedhel?

Canya-Gorod im bractha-te dos gail apanta-garth. -The Master gave strict orders to awaken him as soon as the Star revealed its location. Daedhel shook his head and continued to work without looking back.

Suddenly, the figure trapped within the massive crystal jolted and the assistant jumped. Ava-bractha-te me-sinwa gail nanwa. -We should not wake the Master until we are certain that the signs are authenticated.

"De-cîr Ulundo[3] sitha garth, 20-16." -You are a new Ulundo to this outpost, 20-16. The ram-horned Moriquen glared at his partner, De mutha-mael û arabo. - You will do well not to question your orders. Daedhel motioned to the green light pulsing through the vine conduits and sneered, Turo ubra gadu di geil. Cuivros mairë ava-fâ-growsh gail naike ea-raeg. -The Master is intimately connected with the Star. The awakening process would not have started if the signs were false.

Ach mu tû-pan mín reth-laus a- -But it will use the last of our reserve energy and-

Munc, inco! -Silence, clone! Daedhel interrupted bitterly. Hosta-coll a manwa-atha-Gorod. -Gather the cloak and prepare to assist the Master. The ram-horned Moriquen motioned to a long black mantle hanging on the curved wall near the entrance.

The goat-horned Ulundo eyed the dark crystal wearily and turned to reach for the oversized cape. 20-16 flinched when the sliding doors opened once again. Two giant forms entered the chamber, hissing menacingly. The hulking figures stood twice as large as the Moriquen, with armored reptilian bodies, four strong arms and a muscular tail. The formidable looking guards remained near the entrance, waiting for someone... or something. Glowering at the clone, the nearest guard licked a forked tongue around its vicious jaws. Deciding whether to eat the smaller creature, the monster growled. 20-16 nodded to the fearsome brute and carefully gathered the cumbersome black drape before backing away.

The throbbing, emerald light quickened and both Elves turned as the dark crystal became electrified. The form inside lurched and twisted. Electrical shocks forced the creature to awaken from its dormant prison. The pulsing waves of green abruptly stopped. A soft hissing sound emitted from the pod as it lowered. Splitting open like a monstrous flower, an opaque slime oozed out, revealing a massive frame which slid to the floor. Jets of hot vapor instantly burst up in a circle around the body. It boiled away the ooze as the capsule retracted back into the mass tangle of conduit vines. Once the steam cleared, the two Elves moved quickly to attend to the Master. The hulking figure hissed to the touch as tendrils of vapor rose from the body. Tentatively, they covered it with the long black cloak as it stumbled forward. 

Turo.-Master. Daedhel whispered. He shied back as the dark figure jerked its head to glare at him fiercely with glowing, green eyes.

The Dark Master by PK

Both the Moriquen and the Ulundo cowered as their master pulled the mantle up. Its giant, ribbed-horns curved out from the darkened hood. Black mist flowed out from under the cloak. It crawled around the hulking figure as it stood slowly, towering over them. The wispy bands of smoke seemed to chill not just the air but crept into the very souls of the attendants. It coalesced and undulated like tentacles, swaying seductively at their feet. The dark fog leeched away their own life force, replacing it with a primal fear that held their bodies in place. Their energy was drawn out, like the pulsing green light, through the ghostly appendages as it fed the creature before them. Entranced by the mist and petrified with dread, the attendants stood frozen in place. They could do nothing but hope that the Master would leave before they were drained of all energy. Fortunately, the hulking beast glared at the weakening minions only a moment longer before turning towards the doorway.

As soon as he was released from the dark power of the mist, 20-16 stepped forward and bowed. Turo, tye thang ezdē. -Master, you must rest.

Both the cloaked creature and Daedhel turned to look at 20-16 quizzically. The Master tilted its bull-horned head as the Moriquen fearfully reached for the overzealous Ulundo clone. The clone pulled away from his partner’s grip. I bodamrost sambe sautha-nē I tell phayā tûr, agh tye gū-kēwā o itrak geogahm. -The resurrection chamber used the last of our reserve energy, and you have not recovered from your slumber.

The Master’s green eyes flashed angrily as a dark and demonic voice replied from under the hood. "

Im-îr ser-tâidô im arwa I honn-ambal.

" -I will rest once I possess the Heartstone. The tentacles of mist began to twitch and lash out as the Master moved closer to study the brash attendant.

The ram-horned Moriquen shied backwards with growing terror and uttered a weak plea for mercy. Turo, sen an er cîw a gist-û síva pan. -Master, this one is new and does not know his place.

Inexplicably, the goat-horned Ulundo bravely stepped forward as Daedhel gasped incredulously. 20-16 spoke in a challenging voice as he glared at the monstrous form before him. Ketya meitha-pen saka-tensi sautha-sinen ko’ahtûr penya-anguráht- -Your aimless searching has drained our resources with no results-

Before the impertinent aide could finish his challenge, the Master lunged forward. The monster grappled 20-16's body to the floor as the clone screamed in terror. Stepping back with a mixture of shock and sheer horror, Daedhel froze with fear at the massacre before him. Dark mist ripped into the Ulundo clone's chest while the massive beast bit into his neck. 20-16's screams subsided into wet gurgling sounds that soon faded away into a deadly silence. After a moment longer of feeding, the Master stood once again. Steadier than before, the rejuvenated being stretched and laughed, reveling in his new power. The master’s strong, evil chuckle filled the chamber, causing the ram-horned Elf to cower and whimper.

Daedhel stared in astonishment as the Shadow Lord’s horns magically disappeared. The demonic visage was replaced with graceful Elven ears and long, silken white hair. The dark laughter turned to delight as the creature marveled at his transformation. Pale, ashen skin smoothed and darkened to a rich midnight purple. Elegant, long nails grew from his fingertips. Bones hardened and muscles rippled. The life force of the dead Ulundo clone spread through his weakened body, strengthening his physique and renewing his energy. Breathing deeply with satisfaction, the Master pulled the cloak hood up and turned to face the cowering Elf. Frightful glowing eyes glared at the simple minion before him.

The Moriquen shivered as he gazed at the front of the wrap, splattered with the dead clone's black blood. The Master's eyes glowed maliciously at the simpering attendant. When the looming authority spoke, his voice was in a strong Elven tone filled with ancient power, "Ta eñ-khyana rhôd-yī an athae." -There are other methods of rejuvenation.

Ná, turo! -Yes, Master! The Elven aide promptly knelt in front of the cloaked figure. Masse thel-melmo tuktalla and I hon-ambal sí, ninya heru? -Where shall we search for the Heartstone now, my Lord?

The Master huffed before leaving the chamber, ignoring the pile of mangled flesh on the floor. Just as the tall circular doors slid open, the dark voice called back to Daedhel, "Sav-ninya norokā yesta-argen-blador. Ninya langō íva-mâ antoryamë lé máka se sav-lórë. Ná er vildi-ië lúmë epë se ndulna panta íva véra varka-olo." -Have my shadow minion continue to scour the planet. My connection to her strengthens with every nightmare she has. It is only a matter of time before the secret is revealed by her own memories.

Ná, Turo. - Yes, Master. The attendant replied, grateful that his life had been spared. Staring at the bloody remains of the Ulundo clone's body, the ram-horned Moriquen shivered as the doors slid shut.

Daedhel flinched with dread when he heard his master's voice, once more, in his mind. Tultā-inco sthamne. A tag-sinwa nontha mbasta abōro laithra-ind.-Send the rest of the clones to my private chambers. Make certain the next batch does not forget their purpose.

Midnight garden

The Dream

Chapter Three

The darkened bedchamber was peaceful and quiet. Warm silken covers invited the most restless soul to fall into a deep slumber. A single furry ear could be seen within the soft folds of the circular bed as the little sleeping form shifted before succumbing to the draw of her dreams. The swirling memory of her adventure earlier that day engulfing her in a soothing embrace…

A pair of tiny white paws ran along the streets and pathways in the late afternoon. A kitten's voice cried out to the other children ahead of her to slow down. The near-daily scene rushed past citizens working and living within the ancient city, who paused to observe the commotion.

Shops and homes on the wide, curving avenue bustled with all manner of species. Elves, Minotaur, Naiads, Satyr, and countless other races from across the multiverse loitered about. Flocks of Harpies and Fairies flew overhead with scores of Fairy Sprites, like lightening bugs, flitting about. This was the legendary city of Avalon, a shining bastion of egalitarian peace and a utopian oasis among the stars. Here, all were welcome, all were safe. The timeless metropolis was a bright, guiding light to countless worlds as a mecca of gatherings, trade, and shared knowledge. The majority of the populace, though, consisted of the Ma'u. A cat-like being who stood on their hinds, with a sapien torso, arms, and claw-tipped, paw-like hands. With bodies covered in fur, their heads, legs, and tails were feline in form. The ancient race altered in appearance with a variety of cat breeds such as panthers, lions, or wildcats.

Most of the children racing along the grand avenue were Ma'uen. They passed the ball between them using their prehensile tails. Batting at the toy, kicking it, or bouncing it off their knees, the youth tried to keep it in the air. Meanwhile, the older children ignored the small kitten trailing behind. Constantly teased by the others, they said she was too small, calling her a runt. Underdeveloped legs for her age caused her to stumble regularly, with a tail barely the size of her forearm. The kitten's voice also seemed altogether miniature, with a tiny lisp that did little to help her arguments. Small, but fierce, she frequently shouted to her siblings, I am not a wunt! Yet, her diminutive stature could not hide her rare beauty: An albino snow leopard, her fur was downy soft and pure white, with faint markings on her shoulders that faded down her spine. Rounded ears, little more than two mounds of white fluff, poked through her silky mane of metallic silver curls. Her argent hair and sapphire-purple eyes seemed to capture everyone's attention. Citizens of Avalon and visitors alike agreed that the kitten was a sacred treasure and blessed by the stars.

Destined for greatness or not, she was still a kit who desperately wanted to play with the other children. The short snow leopard raced as fast as her tiny paws could carry her up the avenue. Still, her petite size was only one of the many challenges she lived with. Not the least of which was the steward of the castle who insisted she was to be dressed in attire that was most befitting of a young princess. Sadly, the long silk skirt and bulky waist bow made any attempts to keep up with her older and taller siblings next to impossible. She saw them ahead of her, on their way up to the castle. The oddly shaped ball was tossed back and forth while her littermates laughed and shouted with the other children. All the while, ignoring her attempts to join their fun... again. In frustration, the small Ma'u grabbed her skirt, pulling it up high enough to reveal frilly lace bloomers, and ran.

The crowded avenue spiraled through the city, ending in a grand courtyard terrace filled with guards and dignitaries of various races. Eldamar’s noble Elves visited with winged emissaries from Haven in the warm late afternoon. Flocks of Fairy Sprites flew about tending to the nearby flowers and trees. To one side, a considerable group of dragon-like beings, called Dragiths, stood together near the castle entrance.

The Dragiths were as tall as Minotaurs, but far more muscular with dragon heads and tails. Scales covered their bodies, ranging from burnt to dark colors. Each of them wore battle-hardened armor and carried a giant saber, harnessed to their back. These fearsome warriors were both at ease and ready for battle as they waited for an audience with the king. The group set themselves apart from the rest of the crowd, stoically observing activities around them when a tiny cry echoed from the central avenue entrance.

Wait fow me! The little Ma’u called after the faster children.

The kitten's puny voice made some nobles, mingling in the courtyard, chuckle. They all turned and watched the parade of youth race through the crowd with their ball, followed by the kitten in her frilly pink bloomers. The older siblings teased her as they ran up the castle steps, hoping she would trip and end her pursuit. The youthful gang rushed past the group of Dragith warriors, who tracked the commotion. Their leader, a huge black and gold scaled warlord, studied the petite snow leopard intently. Tendrils of smoke trailed from his nostrils and his golden eyes narrowed with focus.

The Dragith general rumbled his chest as the little princess veered to the side of the castle without missing a step. He twisted his neck towards the entrance and then back to the small Ma'u with a short nod. The snow leopard kitten headed into the receiving gardens where the Dragiths had teleported into earlier. Like a good battle tactician, she calculated the other children would be told by the steward to take their game outside. Likely to the same area of the castle where she could intercept them. The Dragith snorted, nodding his approval, and turned back to his brethren without a word.

The snow leopard giggled with delight as she scampered down the mossy pathway. Soon, the inevitable scream of frustration issued forth from one of the archways leading into the garden. 

"OUT!" The steward howled in exasperation from inside the castle.

The small Ma'u's plan worked, and she twisted to stop on the moist path. Unfortunately, stopping on a moss-grown pathway without the help of a proper tail, or fully-grown claws, caused her to slide and stumble. The kit squealed as she saw one of her mother's favorite rose bushes appear in front of her. In desperation, she tried to sway her stiff appendage for a counterbalance. Remembering the warding spell she had learned from her tutor recently; the snow leopard kitten feverishly muttered the incantation. She cried out as she crashed into the shrubs and the alabaster statuette next to it.

Castle guards, the steward, the other children, and a handful of nobles, including the contingent of Dragith warriors, rushed out to the garden upon hearing a tiny wail, a loud whoosh of energy and crashing marble. The crowd stared in disbelief as the small kitten tried to pick herself up from the mossy ground. The petite snow leopard Ma'u was covered in blue roses and broken sprigs. Pieces of statuette littered the garden path. Decorative banners and more branches lay toppled about and in a large fountain nearby. The wooden banner poles and tree limbs had been shattered from some magical force. The children and a few nobles burst into laughter while the guards shook their heads, returning to their post.

The steward, a cougar Ma'u with a propensity for all things in order, sputtered as he rushed to pick up the snow leopard, Princess Lunessa!?! What? How? ... Your dress is ruined!

Flabbergasted, the chamberlain held the kit at arm's length to inspect the damage. The front of the frock was smeared with mud. Her waist ribbon ripped apart and entwined within the remains of the rose bush. The little kitten hung like a rag doll in his outstretched paws.  Her oversized eyes began to fill with tears. Suddenly, the disheveled form was lifted into the air as the queen wrapped her in a warm, loving embrace.

A beautiful, slender cheetah Ma'u, Queen Celeste was one of the most favored among the city for her gentle nature, quiet wisdom, and the love she shared with everyone. Cuddling the snow leopard in her arms, she cleaned the tears from her kitten's muzzle. The princess tried to mewl apologies for breaking the statuette and using her powers, again, but was calmed with her mother's purr. The queen turned to the steward to settle his frustrations as well, and then chastised the children for not including their sister.

Celeste stepped away from the garden debris with a graceful sway and bowed her head in reverence to the Dragith warlord. More tendrils of contemplative smoke flowed up from his nostrils, but the stoic warrior nodded in unison with his companions to the regal Ma'u. The Ma’uen queen teleported herself and the kitten away in a flash of shimmering star light as the Dragiths returned to the courtyard without a word.

◆◆◆

Queen Celeste and her daughter reappeared in a separate garden, reserved for the royal family. Here, the cheetah walked to an expansive tree with a swing and began to hum a soft lullaby. Rocking the tiny snow leopard tenderly in her arms, the mother contemplated her kitten's situation. Ma'u were born into the breed of cat that matched their truest personality, but Celeste knew that her smallest kitten would be far more than just a reclusive and silent hunter - able to seamlessly blend into her surroundings. She knew her youngest daughter would face countless challenges ahead as the next leader of their kin. Greatest of those was, of course, being the Scion of Avalon's current incarnation. The snow leopard kitten was extremely intelligent and excelled in her tutoring. Managing to shed her collar many cycles earlier than her siblings, the princess had mastered a number of languages and most of her arcane studies. Beyond these accomplishments, at the end of the day, the little princess was, well... little.

Celeste smiled and nuzzled her daughter, tickling the kit to make her laugh. The small kitten adored these special moments with her mother, even if most of them happened as a result of one or more of her clumsy accidents. As the youngest in a litter of five kittens, and part of the royal family, she rarely had a private moment like this with either of her parents.

"Do you remember the story of bh’Umi[4]?" Celeste purred to her kitten.

The snow leopard nodded and curled into her mother’s lap, happily listening to another of her favorite story-lessons.

In the beginning, the Ancients traveled the multiverse with the help of the Aether Stars. They lived in harmony with the great entities in five mighty city-ships.

Avawon, Atwantis, and Sh, sshan, sshang,

Shangri-La. Yes. The cheetah Ma’u waved her paw, conjuring wispy images as she continued with the fable.

Avalon, and the others, traveled the multiverse. Visiting countless systems and imparting the knowledge of the Aether to other beings. One of the many planets we visited long ago was bh’Umi. It was a newborn planet, in the Ygdrasyl verse. As was tradition, each of the ancients bestowed their gifts upon the fledgling world and added our likeness to further plenish the land. Álfheimr was chosen by the Highborns to watchguard Ygdrasyl while the others traveled afar, spreading out across the cosmos.

Avalon returned in the cycle of the second Scion to find the bh’Umans flourishingthroughout the planet. Although they were a smaller species and called themselves by many different names, they were mostly peaceful. The ‘Humans’, welcomed the Aether travelers to their home world. In return, we built grand libraries and academies where we could share our wisdom. Humans began to travel from afar, in the search of more knowledge. They erected shining cities and monuments surrounding the Athenaea. Over time, though, the darkness followed the Aether, and bestowed their own gift upon the young planet.

The kitten covered her eyes, peeking between her stubby digits as monstrous shadows of the Dark Elves appeared in the story images. Celeste smiled and nuzzled the snow leopard.

The Moriquen were Highborn separatists who did not agree with sharing the knowledge of the Aether. They believed it should be withheld and used to control the multiverse, for they coveted power above all. Their desires urged them into contracts with the Naether darkness and the demonic hordes that reside there. Their greed and ambition grew to such an extent that it transformed them into the Dark Elves.

Wanting the Aether for themselves, the Moriquen placed a sickness upon the inhabitants of bh’Umi – warping their thoughts and encouraging darker desires. Some were able to resist and continued to live in peace with the great cities. Yet, the corrupting darkness grew stronger. It caused more and more Humans to covet as the Moriquen did: They began to desire beyond the knowledge that the Aether offered. Encouraged by the Dark Elves, the sapiens demanded the power of the Aether Stars to conquer their enemies. Our kin, and the other Ancients refused. We battled against the Moriquen during the Dividing War. Yet we did not know how deeply the infection had taken root within the hearts of the Humans. It spurned them to destroy our libraries and academies on their own. Their corruption turned from greed to anger as they burned the shining cities to the ground, massacring those who fought alongside us. Eventually, the Dark Elves and their sympathizers were defeated. We left bh’Umi and returned to our home on Avalon, with a few Human allies, to live among the stars once again. Some of the Ancients chose to remain behind. They vowed to observe and protect the young planet against any further darkness.

We traveled the multiverse for many more cycles before visiting bh’Umi once more, near the end of the second Scion cycle. By then, the inhabitants had become prosperous across the globe. Unfortunately, so did the corruption in their hearts. Hostility and greed had severed their connections to the elements, preventing the majority of Humans from using magic. The Ancient guardians allowed the few Moriquen survivors of the Dividing War to take refuge in the shadow realms of bh’Umi. Yet, from these dark places, they continued a silent crusade: Inciting further destruction and chaos in the hearts of Humans. Over time, those who had resisted the corruption were shunned as witches, demon-worshipers, and heretics. They were hunted and slaughtered along with the creatures who wielded natural magic.

Wispy images of unicorns, fairies, and gryphons fell in a swirling sea of dark shadows. The kitten softly mewled, reaching for one of the fairy sprites to save it from the frightening whirlpool. She held the tiny point of light close to her chest as her mother continued, rocking her gently.

The Ancients agreed that Humans needed more time to grow. They had to learn, in their own way, to resist the darkness. In a great exodus, we gathered the last of the magical creatures and the remaining Highborn, retreating to our home verse of Ilunmár. Some Human allies were offered passage on Avalon, especially those who had not forgotten the Arcane ways. Since that time, we have lived in harmony amongst the stars and our home has become a utopia of knowledge and peace. We understand that younglings stumble and break things in their early cycles. Yet, their actions are not a reflection of their true selves. Though they may act with darkness, bringing about damage and ruin, their Life Energies are still innocent.

Celeste tapped the snow leopard’s tiny nose as Lunessa giggled, releasing the fairy sprite. It flitted up above them and burst into a multicolored shower of sparks that caused the kitten to giggle once more.

What is this talk I hear from the steward? My daughter, running through the streets and tearing up my queen's roses?!? A booming voice roared from the royal quarters entrance and a huge form appeared.

The snow leopard might have been the runt of her litter, but she was an exact opposite to her father, King Sevregth. The massive tawny liger Ma’u almost filled the tall archway leading to the private chambers. Staring in awe, the kit smiled as her father strolled towards the tree swing. The giant liger’s strides so long, she would have had to jump and run just to keep up.

The queen trilled at her beloved mate, before holding up the snow leopard for him to inspect. A tattered dress, muddied fur, ripped waist bow, and the biggest, sapphire-purple eyes he had ever seen. Almost too big for her head, they were the color of a rich blue and purple jewel that twinkled in the sunlight. King Sevregth pretended to be upset as he glared down and crossed his muscular arms. Seeing his precious daughter's eyes start to mist with tears was too much. Unable to contain himself, the liger Ma'u let out a laughing roar as he swept the kit up into his huge paws, swinging her around. Lunessa squealed with delight at the feeling of almost flying - she was so high. Sevregth tossed his daughter into the air once and caught her as they all laughed.

Now. Tell me, The liger chuckled and chuffed while picking a small twig from the kitten's mane, How does such a little kitten cause so much trouble?

The king smiled and placed her upon his shoulder. The Ma’uen youth was awed by how tall she felt, she could see the top of the lofty shrubs that rimmed the garden. Though her father was not upset, she felt anger at herself. The small white fluffy ears folded back against her silvery mane, and she furrowed her brow.

I am too smaw, and my taiw does not wurk! The snow leopard crossed her small arms, pouting angrily while perched atop his giant shoulder. 

Little kitten Luna with her parents by Blanchy

Both the king and queen laughed as he gave the kit back to her mother. Very true, my little Luna, the big liger smiled, You are small, for now. But so was your mother.

Sevregth winked at the cheetah who gasped and swatted her tail at his muzzle in rebuke. The snow leopard kitten giggled at her father’s foible. King Sevregth cleared his throat to continue, turning back to the royal quarters, What I meant to say, was that I loved your mother regardless of what she looked like.

Sevregth! The cheetah exclaimed and the kitten squealed with laughter. The great Ma'uen king's booming laugh echoed through the archway and down the grand hall towards the rest of the castle.

I believe what your father is failing to say is that you are a unique princess, Lunessa. And we love you very much. Celeste purred. The affectionate cheetah leaned against her mate as they walked.

The liger put his huge arm around the queen as she held the snow leopard kitten, As always, my queen is correct!

Come now, the both of you. She trilled and eyed Luna, "You need a bath and then it is off to bed. You have early tutoring in the prata[5] with the Academy Master. The cheetah Ma'u turned to Sevregth and nodded, And you have the new Dragith dignitaries to entertain. They have been waiting patiently for your audience since their arrival."

Both the liger and the snow leopard kitten eyed each other, then the queen.

The king moaned, They are only here on a visit, and their conversations are little more than battle tactic plans and war stories.

But Papa pwomised he wud take me to see the sunset flare at the W...ww...wrrose Cliff! The princess worked to control her speech impediment and stalled for bedtime.

The cheetah Ma’u huffed, You two are impossible! Sevregth and Lunessa smirked at each other thinking they had managed to win the argument. But! Queen Celeste continued with her tail pointing up behind her, We all have our responsibilities. The king and Lunessa groaned together, knowing that she was right.

The trio made their way to the kitten’s private chambers. Sevregth turned to leave after helping his little Luna climb up on her full circular bed. Trying one last time to stall, the kitten called out, "But you pwomised!"

The liger Ma’u stopped at the doorway and came back to kneel by her curved bedside. Even as he knelt, the petite snow leopard still had to look up at him with her deep, sapphire-purple eyes. He chuffed, once