Realm Komiks Prequel New Worlds: Chapter 26: Iguana Island

Chapter 26:

IGUANA ISLAND

The boat falls against the blue horizon. Janet runs to her father who is now steering toward shore. “Get ready to anchor her!” he calls to Janet.

She scurries to the anchor and sits next to it, waiting for her father’s help. “There’s another boat.” She shouts toward him.

Daniel’s grin sweeps across his face, “It’s an old friend of mine. I know that boat well.”

He breaks the boat, rushing toward Janet to help release the anchor. “This is where you and mom always came?” Janet confirms.

“It is.” he tries to smile as he checks the depth of the water.

The local is already off on the island calling to the boat; “Is that you Daniel?” he waves walking toward the boat.

Daniel waves, grabbing Janet, and loading her off the boat before he follows. “Mateo!” he greets.

“Daniel, my man,” he follows with a bro hug. “How long has it been?” he appears around Daniel at Janet. “This is the baby?”

“It is.” Daniel nods.

Mateo’s face lights up “What is her name again?”

“Janet.” Daniel reminds him.

“Janet.” His thick accent draws the vowel out before concluding her name. He eagerly shakes her hand. “Last time I saw you, you were not even months of age! How old are you now?”

“Nine.” She beams with amusement.

“Nine. No shit?” he turns to Daniel, “It’s been nine, damn years, man?”

“I guess it has.” Daniel grins. “I’m so surprised to run into you here. I thought we’d be among tourist, that I’d have to search for your whereabouts.”

“Destiny always has an answer, doesn’t she?” his pearly whites shine past his dark skin.  “I’ve actually arrived on island business. Been here for a few days now.”

“Daddy! Look at those pigs!” Janet exclaims, “I think they are heading toward us.

“Oh, let me grab some treats. They indulge in the attention. They haven’t been getting it so much lately.” Mateo jumps on his boat, disappearing under the deck.

“This must be the coolest island ever. Why haven’t we ever come before?” Janet asks.

“Funny, how time gets away. Doesn’t feel like nine years ago since your mother and I visited.” Daniel finds himself lost in the memory. “She carried you in one of those… of what do the women call them?” he struggles, “It was a baby wrap…. That is what she called it, I believe. You were strapped to her. I met Mateo on the island. I used to assist him in the wildlife habitat. We made sure…”

Mateo walks from behind them, interrupted Daniel, “And do you notice anything different on this island?”

Daniel pauses for a moment, surveying his surroundings, “Besides, the tourist? Well, I’ll be damn…”

“That’s right, man; the name of the island is not existent.” Mateo confirms.

“What happened to all the Iguanas?” he mumbles, more to himself.

“Daddy, can I go play with those pigs? Are they safe?” Janet interrupts.

Mateo hands her the small pouch he grabbed off the boat, “Here, ya go, child. Just use it sparingly; they sometimes get aggressive if they feel…”

Daniel hesitantly interrupts, “Maybe you should just stay here, Janet. I’ll come with you.”

“Oh, she’ll be fine.” Mateo chuckles reassuring. “Let the kid go.”

Daniel looks down at her eager eyes. “Okay, just don’t go too far.” He reminds her.

She excitedly grabs the feeding pouch skipping toward some of the swine.

“So, what’s going on here?” Daniel tries to understand.

Mateo shakes his head, “No idea. That’s why I’m here. Other scientist and ecologist will be flying in and heading over soon… but it’s weird. At least 1,300 of our rare iguanas, just disappearing? It was over night. Something weird going on, man. The nest we are finding, but the females are nowhere in sight guarding them. Lots of locals believe it’s the echo system.”

Daniel’s eyes narrow in on Mateo, “What do you think?”

“I’m not sure you want to know what I think, Daniel.” Mateo begins but is cut off by a high pitched scream.

Mateo’s eyes meet Daniel’s, “Janet.” Daniel gasp running toward the shriek.

Mateo follows behind him, running through the thick sand, deeper into the island. “Over here!” Daniel directs as Janet’s piercing scream echoes once again.

Mateo follows Daniel over to a deep hole, peering down the ten foot drop. Janet peers up at her father, “Dad! Help me!”

“Hold on Janet.” He calls, searching for Mateo, “Quick, run to the boat and grab the survival kit. Grab the ropes.”

Mateo quickly nods, slipping in the sand as he races him off.

“Don’t worry, Janet. We’re going to get you out.” He tries to assure her.

“There’s a tunnel down here, Daddy.” She calls up.

“We’ll get you out.” He shouts to her, not taking in her revelation.

“Dad…” she backs toward the dirt wall, “Dad, there are eyes…”

*******

Susan takes in the fresh salty air, the palm trees flowing against the breeze. Her fingers clutch over the wooden railing, watching the waves tumble over one another, racing to the shore line. Nora joins her handing her a generic cup of soda.

“Here.” She pushes it toward Susan while sipping on her straw, Susan taking it into her hand with little response. Sunglasses cover Nora’s eyes, her back leaning against the pier, facing toward Susan. “Did you find someone with a boat to take you?”

“I did. It should be an easy sail since we came to Pompano.” Susan finally pulls the old drink to her mouth, sipping on the straw.

Daisy barks, running down the pier toward the women, Steve following behind. Susan warmly greets the lovable golden, standing when Steve approaches. “I guess this is good-bye.” Susan struggles to not be sentimental.

“Good luck. I’m so happy you will get to finally be reunited with your family.” He tries to smile but becomes emotional, “And you?” he turns to Nora struggling to be strong.

“What do you mean, me? I’m traveling with Susan, of course.” She shrugs.

Susan taken a bit off guard, “You don’t have too…”

Nora stops her, “Look, Susan, for the first time in my life I’m free. I don’t know how long this freedom will last, but right now, I’m on a pier, next to the ocean, fresh air, palm trees…freedom. Something I do not remember ever having in my life. It is because you took a chance on me, you gave me trust that you were not sure of, but did it anyway. You are a good person, Susan. The first good person I’ve ever met. I will see you through your travels, and then I will figure out where I will go and what I will do from there. I’m not abandoning you. I’m in debt to you and I plan to make sure it is fully paid.”

“Really, Nora… you…” Susan tries but Nora interrupts again.

“Until you have you daughter in your arms. I insist.” She stands her ground.

Susan nods, “Okay, then, Nora. Thank you, it will be nice to have familiar company on a stranger’s boat.”

Susan turns to Steve, “You?”

Steve laughs, “Really? After that triumph speech do you really expect me to leave the two of you?”

Susan shoots a glance at Nora slightly and then chuckles. “Steve, take Daisy to the beach.”

“Oh, she’s going back down to the beach. But first, we are getting a boat and going to the Bahamas.” He leeshes Daisy and wraps the loop around Susan arm. He shakes his head with a sighing relief, “I’ll be back.”

“Where you going?” Nora calls to him.

Steve continues down the pier shouting to them, “To rent us a damn boat!”

*****

Tsunami and Kae flip through the book tablets in the space craft’s library. Tsunami keeps her Gatorade between her legs as she studies the information. “I have it.” She mumbles

Kae drops his material on the table and scoots in next to her. “What is the discovery?”

“I knew if anyone would discover something it would be you.” The voice enters from behind them.

“Bruinen?” Tsunami surprise rises. “What are you doing here?”

“What information have you gathered?” he changes the subject.

“Wait, you are here because you doubt Kae and I?” she realizes.

Bruinen shakes his head, walking past her and taking the book. “You two are young. A little guidance and knowledge along the way only helps one grow.”

Tsunami scoffs, her eyes shifting toward Kae with annoyance.

“Indonesia Islands?” Bruinen raises an eyebrow at her after scanning the tablet.

“The Varanus Komodoensis. The island would give her the hiding; the reptile is powerful, protecting her well.” Tsunami discloses.

The communication device buzzes, catching Bruinen’s attention. “It’s Nawfar. I’ll place her on community call.” He taps the button revealing Nawfar’s image above them.

“All is well, Bruinen?” she begins. He nods, presenting Tsunami and Kae beside him, “The United Nations has decided the best place for Poisonous Dart’s whereabouts will be an Island of Indonesia. Here, on this island a numerous of large reptiles inhabit the area. The behavior has mysteriously changed, they are becoming more aggressive and also there have been a few reports of the Komodo Dragon, taking stance on two legs, as we have begun to witness other creatures of their world, also doing.”

“Varanus Konodoensis…Komodo Dragon… the same thing.” Tsunami explains to Kae and Bruinen.

Nawfar continues, “Marlin has divided our armies into five different stations.  Marlin is to lead the battle on Komodo Island, mission to locate Poisonous Dart as quickly as possible. Local allies of Earth and Planeteers will join us.” She pauses for a moment and then continues, “Tsunami and Kae, the battles are moving forward. Prepare yourselves to uncover the stone in Atlantis.”

Tsunami and Kae nod toward the hologram.

“I will join Marlin.” Bruinen decides. “Confirming that you two now have things under control?”

“Of course.” Kae agrees. “The drinks were a mere misunderstanding.”

Bruinen’s blue eyes shift toward Tsunami who sits quiet. “What?” she shrugs, “I’ve got this. Only drink water on Earth and,” she smirks holding up the bottle, “Gatorade if you do make a terrible choice,” Bruinen’s face holds serious face, not impressed by her humorous play, “Where’s your humor? Seriously, I’m going to find the stone.” She shakes her head finding Kae’s eyes who slightly shrugs as Bruinen turns away.

*******

“There!” Susan leans past Nora pointing across the blue waters at the bouncing boats against the shore line. She steers the boat closer to the island. Steve stands up from the boat and pulls himself closer to the women so he can hear what they are saying over the boat’s motor.

“Two boats?” Nora voices a slight bit of concern.

“I’m actually surprised it is only two boats. This is a hot tourist island spot. It appears to be deserted from here.” Susan tries to focus in on the bobbing boats and island. “That’s definitely our boat up ahead.”

“I don’t know, something isn’t right.” Nora mumbles, “Maybe we should take the boat and circle the island first….”

“All I need to know is my husband and daughter is here. That’s enough for me. You guys can take the boat back after I get off.” Susan suggests.

“Not until I know you guys are safe.” Nora reminds her, her eyes meeting Steve’s who is quiet, taking in everything the women are saying.

Susan pushes the boat to throttle, instructing Steve and Nora as she pulls in. They secure the boat, after giving it a final tug, Susan is off the boat running toward the families boat. “Daniel!” she shouts as she rushes the boat.

Daisy is off the boat and chasing the waves against the shore line. Steve observes her and then shrugs at Nora, “Myswell get off the boat. Need a hand?”

Nora folds her arms into one another, “I’ve got it.”

“Suit yourself,” he shrugs hoping onto the dock and running toward Daisy.

Nora watches as Susan pops up from below the boat and hops back on the dock “They aren’t here!” Susan calls to her.

Nora meets her on the sand. “Are you going to go look for them?”

“It’s a small island, might be better to wait here so I don’t miss them. Janet could’ve wanted to explore, she loves animals and there are lots of wild pigs and iguanas around…” Susan voice fades as her eyes shift around their surroundings.

“They here?” Steve calls walking toward them, his shoes slipping over the sand.

Nora shushes him, “What is it?” she seriously asks Susan.

Susan becomes uncomfortable, “Something is going on here. There are usually lizards and tourist everywhere. I mean it’s been years since I’ve been here… but it shouldn’t have changed…”

The three turn quickly as Daisy suddenly begins to bark. Seeing a man running toward them, Steve pushes the ladies behind him grabbing at his gun. “It’s okay.” She touches Steve’s shoulder pushing passed him.

“Mateo!” she shouts feet away.

“Susan!” Mateo excitedly shouts, but dodges her hug, pulling her with him.

“What’s going on?” her tone quickly changes.

“I came back for some rope. Janet fell into a deep hole, she’s okay but we need to get her out.” He jumps on his boat.

“I’ll grab the first aid,” Susan rushes her boat and scampers down the steps, grabbing the handled kit out from storage, meeting Mateo back on top.

Steve and Nora quickly trail behind, Daisy quickly beginning to follow, while grasping sniffs of the area around her. “These are my friends, Mateo.” Susan huffs. “Steve and Nora.”

“Glad they are here, we may need them. Some strange stuff going on around here.” Mateo tries to explain.

“What’s going on with this area?” she asks, shooting the other two a glance behind her.

“I don’t know. That’s what I had come here to find out. It was by chance that I came across Steve and Janet. Lizards all disappeared… but we think we might have found them…”

A few pigs snort pass and Daisy takes off running after them. Steve gives an annoyed sigh, “I’ll catch up.” He calls running after Daisy.

“Where did you find them…?” Susan reminds Mateo.

“The ditch Janet fell into…” Mateo grabs Susan’s hand pulling her quickly.

*******

Tsunami and Kae walk through the busy hallway and shopping area of the large resort. “I’m assuming you have a plan, bringing us back here?”

“Wasting time until we are given the go…” She shrugs admiring the merchandise in the window. “The clothing style feels so conservative for such a diverse planet.”

“I think one window display doesn’t reflect the entire population.” He tilts his head toward a group of women walking by.

Tsunami ignores the comment switching her thoughts as she watches the people pass, “One would assume the Earth people know nothing of their planet being taken over by vampires and lizards. Everyone seems to go on with their business as usual.”

“Big planet. Over populated. Everyone has their own agenda. Doesn’t directly affect them, I guess they go on with life as normal…”

She interrupts him with an annoyance, “I realize that. It just continues to amaze me.”

Kae nods across toward the men’s restroom, “I need to relieve myself. Then I suggest we do what we came here to do. They will be in the middle of battle soon enough.”

Tsunami, “You realize I can’t part the ocean for easy access to ground level. The chaos we were anticipating isn’t here. We are going to have to dive.”

“I don’t have the lung capacity you do.” He reminds her. “And my body won’t withstand the pressure the way yours can.” He taps her on the shoulder, “You’ll find it.”

Tsunami nods, “I know. We will have to take the ship to the location and I’ll abort from there. As long there is not trouble…”

“I will use the Hydrobot from inside the ship. It can be my eyes and hands to help you in the search.” He concludes with her nodding in agreement, “Now if you’ll excuse me.” He pushes himself toward the restroom as Tsunami finds a wall to perch her back against.

She watches as the people pass by her. Some alone, and some in groups. Some couples holding hands. Lots of people taking pictures. Why people were so obsessed with having so many photos of themselves, felt rather self-absorbed to her, her nose crinkles at the passing the thought.  

“Hey!” a young lad comes up to her studying her face. “Cool artwork on the forehead. Love how they kind of glow, there. Is it a local thing?” he ask invading her personal space.

She studies his attire and colored hair. “It is my…style.” She carefully chooses.

“It’s mad. Let me get a selfie with you.” He pulls out his device, holding it above their heads, Tsunami seeing herself on the screen has little reaction. The guy smiles touching the screen and capturing the image. “Going to get your look out to social media. Hashtag ‘Killin It.’ Thanks.”

The guy throws his hands up pursing his lips and bounces off while tapping against his device.

“Quirky.” She manages under her breath, her eyes capturing a local island tourist accommodation. She slinks across the hall past the glass windows, into the tourist center, lined with wooden blocks of brochures. She slides her fingers over the folded colored paper, swiftly reading the covers, advertising the tourist attractions in the Bahamas.

“Mam, would you like some help?” the man from behind the counter ask as she picks up the brochure of Iguana Island.

“I’m okay. Thank you.” She forces a grin, while beginning to examine the pamphlet.

“Tours to Iguana Island are actually closed right now. They shut down the island.” He slides in nest to her, trying to pass her another brochure, “Lagoon Tour is nice though…” he begins.

“Why did they shut down the island?” she interrupts him.

“Iguanas suddenly disappeared. It’s odd. They are flying scientist in, have a couple of our locals checking the echo system…” he begins to explain but once again she chimes in.

“Are iguanas dangerous or an aggressive species?” Tsunami’s gears are quickly churning.

“Uh, no mam. It is part of the appeal of the island. The lizards…” he tries but again she cuts him off.

“Thank you. Can I keep this pamphlet?” She ask already walking toward the entrance way.

“Uh, yes, of course.” He oddly watches as she crosses through the people finding Kae as he is exiting the men’s room.

She shoves the brochure in his hand and he looks down at it. “What’s this?”

“This is where Poisonous Dart is.” She now tugs on him leading him through the people.

“At Iguana Island? Here in the Bahamas?” he questions doubtfully.

She pulls him outside into the hot sun, “Yes.”

“Where are we going?” Kae asks.

She stops, “We are going to Iguana Island.”

“They already confirmed she is…” Kae begins.

“No, they haven’t confirmed. They suspect. But the Komodo would be a great fighter. Like the alligators and crocodiles, correct?” she probes. He shrugs with a nod and she continues, “All the attacks, in the random places… Kae, I can guarentee her diversions are sending the armies on chases all over Earth. This way, armies against Sultana are minimized. Dart is here. In the Bahamas.”

She pushes the flyer at Kae once again. “Let’s contact Sovereign Nawfar and Bruinen and explain your theory.” He suggest.

“There isn’t time. They are already heading for battle. If for some reason, my theory is incorrect, we will steer them from the target. We head to the island, find evidence of my theory and then make contact once things are confirmed.” Tsunami decides.

“No,” Kae protest, “We were brought here for one very important mission; A mission that could determine our planets survival if we are under attack, again. We do not abort the plan without an authority telling us otherwise. You need to get your head out of the water, Tsu.”

“We’ll get the jewel. I promise. If I’m correct we contact Sovereign Nawfar and Bruinen. If I’m not, they will never know we attempted. The stone will be in our hands, either way.” She stares at him with pleading eyes.

“How do we get to the island…” he leads.

“Breaker Hovers. We ride them in.” Tsunami suggest.

Kae gestures down toward his scrawny length, “Do you really believe I have athletic ability?”

Tsunami thinks for a brief moment, “Wave Hovers… you can sit. We have a few on one of the transports.”

Kae pauses before answering, “And we get the stone, no matter what?”

She nods in agreement.

“Contact Sovereigns first sign if Poisonous Dart is actually on this island?” he tries to assure himself of the plan.

“Yes. Definitely.” She nods waiting for his final say.

He studies her shifting leg as she anxiously awaits. “Okay, I trust you Tsunami.”

 “Great. Let’s start those Wave Hovers.” She eagerly grabs Kae pulling him through the bathing suit people. 

********

Read Chapter 27: Behind Enemy Lines

Read Previous Chapters of Realm Komiks Prequel: New Worlds

Realm Komiks Prequel: New Worlds Chapter 25: Canary & the Cat

Canary and the Cat

Chapter 25:

Sultana enters the room, placing her heal on the red rope and smashing it into the floor, stepping onto one of the twin oriental rugs. Chayse slinks in behind her, stepping over the flattened rope and handing her a chalice, holding the duplicate between her fingers. “You’ve been mostly silent since we arrived.” Chayse probes, sipping from her glass.

“The feeling is a bit Deja vu, yet so much is different. They’ve turned an icon into a museum. It definitely is the feeling being lived in… yet, some dark sense feels like home.” She sips at the red liquid, finding the sweetness hit her pallet. “It’s human.”

“Of course.” Chayse lets her rear hit the wooden bench against the window, allowing her elbow to rest against the backless bench. “Quite abundance lately. You expect us not to indulge from the ripe fruit?”

Sultana stares at the thick, burnet floating in the middle of the glass. Her eyes narrow, furry suddenly in the brows and the goblet suddenly pounds against the wall, the dark red rolling toward the floor from the white walls. “Idiots.” She mumbles from under her breathe.

“Idiots?” Chayse says almost entertained by Sultana’s imply.

“Idiots!” her voice flows from the bottom of her lungs to the top of her throat. She falls upon the sheeted resting area, letting her head relax against the maroon pillow, her eyes staring at the arched ceiling.

“You miss her.” Chayse says very matter of fact.

“Relying on human blood makes us week. We are then controlled by an urge, a hunger… our minds then become dull.” She spits.

“Lucius is concerned. He says she is not coming back.” Chayse sips at the chalice.

Sultana turns her head and sits up, propping her cheek on her palm, “Have you no regard for what I have just said?”

“The mind is a peculiar thing, my Queen. I personally, am able to indulge in the sweetness of fruit, while understanding the times it will be scarce. In those times, I will only eat my vegetables.” Chayse sets the gold cup on the floor and crawls toward the bedding. “Haven’t you missed me? Missed us?”

“Stop your desperate attempts of affection.” Sultana sits up, leaning her back against the pillow.

“I know you love her,” Chayse spouts, “But she’s gone. Her sensitive heart has finally destroyed her, and she’s gone.”

“She’s not gone.” Sultana growls, staring down at Chayse, “She’ll be back stronger than ever, she always is.”

Chayse scoffs, rising to her feet and grabbing her chalice, “Lucius wanted me to tell you that Ambrogino gives word that Leeke is doing well. Following him around everywhere, lost without you but still the same otherwise. They look forward to serving you again when the time comes.”

“If you’d like to know who I really miss, it is Leeke.” Sultana now stands, pushing aside the sheer drape to peer out the square window. “Remember when we used to speak of this castle, as if it were a dream?”

“I remember.” Chayse steps behind her.

“It’s ours now. Little by little, we will bring the whole vampire realm home.” Sultana’s view now overlooks a city far away over the trees, from the middle of the Transylvania castle.

“One from Divobite’ may ask, ‘Is Earth really our home?’” Chayse gently voices.

Sultana slightly tilts her head, “Of course, this is where we all were born…”

“A planet of mostly darkness is a planet of freedom. We have abundance of food.  Earth cannot offer the satisfying comparison, unless it is human. Is Earth really what every Divobite’ wants?” Chayse voice falls silent, Sultana finding her amber eyes.

“Do you doubt me, Chayse?” Sultana’s brow slightly rises.

“I do not doubt you. I doubt the people that remain on our planet. You should prepare yourself, for a new rise on the planet, if you shall have Earth. Divobite’ will never be abandoned by our kind. You think you will rule both, but what fantasy you must see.” Chayse now pleas with her queen.

“Domnious will return, stronger than ever. She will reign our planet, as I reign here. You will see.” Sultana turns toward the window, “There never used to be so many modern day things…”

“My Queen,” A voice calls from behind.

Sultana lets the drape fall against the window, pushing pass Chayse, “What is it Lucius?” 

“The time has come. The armies are closing in. We must send the air force out and soon follow. It is time for the armies; the enemy is getting too close to the borders.” He informs.

“We will do what we must.” She pushes past him, “Where’s Dominious?” she pauses.

Lucius briefly meets Chayse eyes before answering. “We have not yet found her…”

“Why?” Sultana simply asks.

Chayse speaks up, “She doesn’t want to be found.”

Sultana’s neck snaps toward her, “Dominious will return.” Sultana finds Lucius’ maroon eyeballs, “She will return. You know she will.” Sultana gives one last glare to Chayse before stepping over the fallen rope and storming down the hall.

*******

The camp feels busy, soldiers from both sides entering and exiting the commander’s tent, him sitting studying things that Margret isn’t sure of. She watches Zulima, curious of her reactions, though she seems to continually drift onto a planet of her own.

“It’s official.” The doctor finally pushes through the tent. Everyone suddenly silent and listening, “She’s no longer a vampire. The healing touch of the Cepaen people healed the poison in her blood. She claimed she was dying before becoming a vampire, but that seems to be healed too.  I can find nothing wrong her medically.” He announces.

The cozy tent is in silence, everyone to their own thoughts until Commander DuPont finally speaks, “So, in an ideal world, the Cepaen healers are able to cure the Romania and Hungary people that have been made into the vampire’s recruits.”

“Theoretically.” The doctor agrees, “But considering the amount of energy it took on one vampire, during war, unless we are to capture the vampires, and strap them down one by one, it would be difficult and unfair for the Cepaen healers to take on that task.”

Commander DuPont scribbles on a tablet and then stands, “I want to speak to the woman.”

“Please, try. She is of little words.” The doctor informs.

Commander DuPont gives the people in the tent one last nod before heading out.

Margret turns to Zulima, “What are your thoughts?”

“My thoughts are we do what we can to rid the innocent people of the virus.” Her lips try to tighten into a smirk.

“That would be suicide.” Margret grabs her hand, wrapping it in to hers. “One alone had brought exhaustion on you. You wouldn’t try?”

“My, Margret, I would do as instructed. However you only asked of my thoughts.” She pulls Margret’s head under her arm, stroking her locks with her fingers. “Cepaen people have a flaw; we always listen to our hearts,” she gives a faint smirk.

“I can’t imagine any place more beautiful than your planet.” Margret thinks.

“Margret, my dear, you haven’t begun to explore the possibilities. As complicated as Earth may be, there are other planets, I would find more complicated. You…” she stops as DuPont storms through the tent.

“She is irrational.” He sighs, sitting back at his table. “If we don’t find someone able to breakthrough to her, she’s useless.”

“I’d like to try.” Margret stands, searching Zulima for approval.

Zulima pushes her head forward, nodding her neck. “I think Margret should try.”

“By all means.” DuPont shakes his head, “Away at it. Good luck.” He gets up and storms back out of the tent.

Margret follows, “Where are you going?”

“Fresh air! Break her.” He twists his arm in the air shooing off Margret as he heads in the other direction.

Margret takes a deep breath, noticing Colm across the camp, engaging with some of the warriors, Natika in the mix. He gives her a slight wink, as if he has been in her conversation from the beginning. Margret tilts her head for a moment, about to pry but decides to walk away, and finds the prisoner’s tent. “DuPont told me to speak to the prisoner.” Margret informs the guard.

The guard gives a slight nod, “Well wishes, Margret,” he encourages.

Margret pushes through the tent, seeing the woman huddled in the corner, no chains or ropes, choice of her own.

Margret sits down on the ground, not far from the entrance way, observing the woman, who continues to look down as if she hasn’t noticed anyone entering. Silence thick between the woman, Margret nervously begins to rambles.

“Two years ago I was leaving school, college, and I was approached by a strange woman. She knew my name and told me that we had to talk.  That was the day I found out I wasn’t 100% Earthling… changed my life forever. Changed my career forever. I’m now considered a warrior; By the way, I never planned on signing up with the US army, let alone an army from another planet.” Margret pauses, waiting for a reaction, but the woman remains still, staring at the flooring.

“Commander DuPont says you don’t want to talk. He is beyond frustrated.” She pauses for a second and then carries on, “He wanted to kill you. Not now, but then, when they found you. Zulima, well she wanted to heal you. I stood there, Zulima’s prodigy, and she asked me in front of the entire army, ‘Margret, what do you feel we should do?’ she asks me. Me. See, I’m supposed to have this gift, from my ancestors, where I can see things in the future… but truth is, I think its shit. I t’s probably stuff I make up in my head and don’t even realize it. Any normal person would feel crazy during these situations… visions that aren’t even frequent enough to be reliable… but when they do happen… Damn...” Margret pauses, Domnious still showing no reaction, she quickly continues her ramble, “Okay, so we are all around… of course we do not know you’d become mortal if the healers put hands on you.  No, we thought it was possible we heal the vampire in you, and then you could very well decide to kill us. Well, during the debate about your life, I got this super strong feeling that needed to save you. It felt like you were screaming in my ear to help you. So, that’s what I told the healers to do and they did.”

Dominious slowly whispers, “I wanted to die.”

“Okay… well, see that’s where we go back to this gift of mine being a little unreliable…” Margret sighs while actually doubting herself.

Dominious raises her head, “Are you ignorant?”

Margret tries not to take offense, “You wouldn’t believe how many people I’ve met over this last month. The stuff I’ve been through…”

Dominious’ brows narrow.

“Seriously, I’m not making fun, I’m just being real.” Margret now feeling subconscious, tries to explain, “Warriors. People from another planet. People from this planet. You, a vampire, was a vampire… learning to fight and how to use a new weapon… sometimes, my brain feels fried. And caffeine was cut. Oh, yea, no more coffee for me. Turns out there is no coffee on Cepaen planet…” with an afterthought she stumbles on her words, “Of course, I guess vampires don’t need coffee…” Margret’s ramble suddenly stops realizing. “Point is… if you hate the vampire Sultana, and Sultana is queen of vampires, then why aren’t you talking and helping us… We are ‘The good guys.’”

Dominious scoffs, “The good guys.”

Margret shrugs, “Way, I see it; vampires came and attacked Earth… taking over two countries and going for all or none. Kinda, makes the vampire the bad guys.”

Suddenly without missing a beat, Dominious mocks with a slow clap, “Congratulations on your shit.” Her body straightens and she becomes serious, “Your life doesn’t compare to what I’ve been through the last twenty-four hours.”

Margret takes a deep breath ‘don’t panic’ she reminds herself ‘what would Zulima say? What would Zulima say to me….” She searches for the correct words as Dominious has already hid her face between her legs, shutting Margret out.

“Okay, tell me what you’ve been through in the last twenty-four hours. I want to understand.” Margret softly encourages.

Dominious’ eyes peek over her knees.

“I’m trying to understand. What happened to you? What made you want to starve yourself to death? Why would any vampire try to starve themselves to death?” Margret raises an eyebrow toward her. “It makes no sense to me. From what I know about vampires…”

“In your stories?” Dominious can’t help to interrupt.

“Unfortunately, but that’s all I have to go on. Obvious sunlight doesn’t kill you, considering we found you in the morning.” Margret thinks.

“No, it does not.” She mumbles through her legs.

“Soldiers think the wooden steak thing, works, destroys vampires. According to some of the Planeteers…” Margret thinks, “Is that true?”

“If they figure incorrectly, aren’t all the soldiers doomed? However, will they kill us?” Dominious pauses. “Them. Kill them… it is now...”

“Does it bother you that you are mortal, again?” Margret sincerely wonders.

Dominious lowers her legs, stretching them out. Wrapping the palm of her hands over the knees. “How do I look? My body appears to be the same.”

“You look beautiful.” Margret honestly answers.

“Do I look old?” Dominious seriously fishes.

Margret shakes her head, “No, not at all. You look young and beautiful.”

“Odd, isn’t it?” Dominious tilts her head, “173 years after being turned, I am mortal again, appearing to never age.” She pauses lost in her own thoughts, taking a slight sigh, “It was made such a deal. The first international cricket game. I was dying… then Sultana…” Dominious scoffs shaking her head.

“You didn’t want to be a vampire?” Margret guesses.

“It often made me angry. But I accepted it. Figaro made me…” she stops, her eyes glaze over, as if she is staring through Margret.

“Figaro?” Margret asks.

A tear rolls from Dominous’ eye, sliding down her cheek. She quickly wipes it away, staring at the clear liquid on her palm. “A real tear.”

“Vampires don’t cry?” Margret pries.

“We do.” She raises her palm, “Not like this.”

“Did something happen to Figaro?” Margret tries to bring her back.

Dominious’ eyes shift toward the left as she gathers her memories, “We finally had it all. Sultana put me in charge of the children and their mothers. They were of a few villages the vampires had taken. It was my job to watch over them. Figaro and I. A handful of babies. One just born a couple weeks ago. Mothers terrified, rightfully so, but I promised them I keep them and their babies safe. I promised I would earn their trust. But the worse promise made was to Sabina and Marius.” Her eyes meet Margret’s, “There was an orphanage, most of the children went with the other mothers… but Sabina didn’t want to leave me.” Dominious’ lip slightly tilts as she remembers, “Sabina didn’t want to go with the other women. She chose me. She wanted to stay with me and of course her younger brother, Marius followed. Figaro and I, childishly, playing house, believing we could finally have the family we always wanted.” She drifts but as another thought enters she continues, “We actually, watched Sabina and Marius sleeping, and wondered what it would be like to watch them grow.” Her head shakes in a sullen disbelief, “Our children having children. Us being the vampire grandparents. Oh, what a jocular mood we were in...” Dominous quickly swipes at her cheek as another tears rolls down her face.

“Where are they now?” Margret tries not to assume the worse.

“Perhaps I will tell you that story another day. Perhaps, you will never know.” Dominious clams up pulling her legs into her chest once again, resting her cheek on her knees. “Please leave me be. I’m exhausted.”

Margret nods, standing to her feet. She begins to exit but stops with the afterthought, “Domnious, do you think you will help us to win against Queen Sultana?”

Dominous raises her head, arched brows narrow, “I will kill Lucius and help bring Sultana to her knees.”

Margret’s eye widen, stunned by her sudden hatred. “Who is Lucius?”

Dominious’ teeth grit, barely allowing her to speak, “The Queen’s number one warrior and tactic. Once I kill him, she will be forced to surrender to all of you. If there was any reason I wanted to live, it is to crush the visions of grandeur she so proudly transfixes. ”

******

Margret exits the tent being intercepted by Lucas, “You were in there a long time.”

She continues, “Have you seen Zulima?”

Lucas keeps pace, “With her warriors, I believe.”

“I need to find her and Colm.” Margret informs.

“What happened? Should I get the Commander?” Lucas confusingly inquires.

Margret pauses, “You can, yes. I just feel more comfortable speaking with Colm and Zulima privately. First anyway. Let Zulima speak with the commander.”

“D’accord?” his face slightly scrunches. “You are suddenly… frigid…”

Margret takes a deep breath, “I’m sorry, Lucas.” Her head involuntarily shakes trying to rattle the words to her tongue. “She has given me so much to process. In short, she sounds very willing to help us win this war.”

“Then I will say a blessed prayer of thankfulness.” Lucas’ lips slowly press against his cheeks, “And his son, whatever the true decent may be.”

Margret thinks for a brief moment, “Are you claiming to believe Jesus is from alien decent?”

Lucas' chin slightly lowers, “I’m claiming with all I have witnessed, there are possibilities.”

Margret shakes her head with a smile halfway smudged across her face. “Lucas, get the commander. I’ll get Zulima.”

He turns to walk away, “And Colm. Don’t forget about him.” He chuckles.

Margret’s cheeks blush and she gives a sighing giggle as she hurries off.

******

Lucas pushes through the tent, Dominious’ eyes raise to look at him.

“Commander DuPont has spoken with Zulima, the Cepaen… they would like to speak with you.” He softly informs her.

“I’m not ready.” Dominious lays down against the ground, allowing her head to rest against her hands.

“You will cooperate, we will get you a bed.” He tries to entice.

“I’m so exhausted, I don’t need a bed. I’m fine. Leave me.” She mumbles.

Lucas slides toward her and kneels closer to her face. “I spoke with Margret.”

Her eyes shift up, “Wonderful for you.”

“Margret’s loyal; she didn’t speak much of your conversation, except your willingness to help the United Nations defeat the vampires. We are to meet up with more armies tomorrow. Then we are to head into Hungary. We are said to prepare for battle. It is rumored the vampires have taken parts of Hungary. This is happening tomorrow. If you can provide other information our tactic may sway. But if your provide none, we continue to move forward boldly and blindly to what is ahead. All of us.” Lucas rest back on calves before rising. “I’m not going to pretend to have an inkling of what must be in your heart and mind. But at this point, you are the only one at this camp who can make the deciding factor if we are to win or more sure to lose.”

Lucas gives a slight nod to head out of the tent but Dominious’ faint voice stops him, “Wait.”

He turns and she is now forcing herself to stand. “I am ready to see them now.”

Lucas nods with a tight grin, “Let us go then.”

*****

Dominious steps into the large tent, the size of a small house, dividing rooms allowing for privacy. She follows Lucas toward the middle, and there Commander DuPont stands to great her, Margret and Zulima sitting in chairs, accompanied by a few other soldiers from both sides.

Dominious begins to fidget, her chin lowered, her eyes looking away.

“Dominious. Lucas. Thank you for joining us.” Commander DuPont’s voice is surprisingly gentle and sincerely welcoming. He takes a seat and offers for Lucas and Dominious to do the same.

Lucas pulls the chair out for her and she hesitantly sits down among them. Lucas pushes her chair forward and takes the seat next to her. The room remains silent, Dominious’ eyes, now a light green, find Margret. Margret gives a friendly nod, her hand wrapped in Zulima’s.

“Please, Dominious, advise us. We are here to listen to you.”  Zulima’s tender voice comes from across the room.

Dominious takes a deep breath, placing her hands on the table. “I’ve never been suitable for engaging a group.”

The room remains silent. Eyes on her, she shifts her focus on the table top.

“The queen was my friend. The only way she knew a friend to be. I don’t want her dead.” She lifts her eyes on the room, intensity swarms the air. Silence remains, and she gazes across the room at Margret who gives an encouraging nod.

“Sultana has wanted some horrible things finished. To your world and to my personal world. I am angry, I feel nothing but hatred, yet there is a piece of me that loves her. I would not be sitting here, speaking, if it were not for her loving me. Sultana loves me so much she did not want to watch me die.” Dominious eyes become moist, and she finds the table for a blank slate of comfort.

Lucas slides his hand across the table, subtlety squeezing hers, “D’Accord.” He manages a dim grin, nodding his head.

Dominious finds the strength to continue, “It becomes difficult to announce that you want your friend dead. After the horrid she disposed, more of you would find it an easy task to eliminate her, more than I ever am bound.” Dominious gathers her next thoughts, remembering Lucius’, his smug face after murdering the ones she loved. The subtle warning he indulged in, secretly gloated of the pain that would seize her. Her breathing quickens as she feels the anger begin to pulse against her new found beating heart.

“Sultana is like a canary that sings in her cage. Her cage is the castle that she senses is a halo. But the cat that watches her, and listens to her every song… the cat cannot have the bird, so he slinks around, causing mischief and anguish as if he’s hypnotized by the music. However, if you let the cat play you as the canary, it will devour anything to fulfill a hunger that it’s’ starved. The canary continues to simply taunt the cat. It is the cat that now guards the canary, because to the cat, the canary is his.”

Her eyes lift, “You can blame the canary, but the canary sits in the cage. It is the cat that continues to go for the kill.”

The crickets chirp outside the enclosure, she notices as some of the people of the table are trying to process her words, but Margret nods in agreement, understanding enough to know the difference between her analogies.

Commander DuPont clears his throat finding his voice, “Who is the ‘cat’?” he tries to keep up.

Dominious feels her teeth clench as she once again tries to spit his name, “Lucius.”

“Lucius is the…” DuPont fishes for her to say the answer.

“The warrior I told you about.” Margret quickly intercepts, allowing Dominious a sigh of relief.

“Of course.” DuPont answers. “Now that the name is floating in the air, how do we obtain Lucius?”

“Obtain?” Dominious scoffs, “There is no obtaining Lucius. He has to die.”

“Why?” Lucas whispers toward her. “If we can save him, give him fair trial and conviction, IF why must you say he needs to die?”

Dominious surveys the room, everyone intently waiting for her answer. “As long as Lucius is alive, Sultana will not stop until he is free. Once he is free, the cat has returned to prowl. The canary feels safe in her cage. You are seeking an end of Divobite’ trying to reign over Earth. It is Lucius. He is the one that continues to remind Sultana we…” Dominious corrects herself, “They belong here as much as humans do. That we are entitled to have whatever is on Earth. We were sired here, and we are pushed out by prejudice. Fear. Because some our evil, we are all thought to be evil. While I personally feel there is truth in the introspection, I also know that Lucius is the evil he falsifies in others of our kind.” Dominious takes a deep breath with a bit agitation, “their kind.” She accurately states.

 Commander DuPont examines his peers for a moment before questioning, “Does anyone at this table have concerns they’d like to address before moving forward?”

Everyone remains quiet, waiting for more information. “Then I ask, Dominious, how do we find this Lucius, you speak of?”

“Watching the canary’s cage.” She dryly announces, losing her vision in a blur.

“And the canary’s cage is…” DuPont waits for her to complete the sentence.

Dominious voice drops flat, as if she is in a trance, struggling to care of the information she is disclosing. The numbness trickling over her heart, is raping oxygen, “Romania Castle. They should be at the old Transylvania Castle.”

 Her ears become muffled, as the translation of DuPont’s orders travel over the table.

“You did well.” Lucas’ voice echoes through the ear canal, the pressure of his hand trying to give comfort against her spine.

“I’ve got her.” Margret’s tone brings a mild relief of comfort as she pulls Dominious by the arms, tugging her into the fresh air.

Dominious suddenly vomits. The little food and water she was able to intake, now stinging against her throat at is splatters to the ground. Margret holds her arm, pulling her long locks away from her face. “You did good.” She reminds her. “You just saved so many lives. You did real well.”

Dominious finds Margret in the dark, people now beginning to walk past, trying to pry, but Margret waves her hand for them to move on. “Lucius burned them all. Figaro. The mother, the children, the babies… he burned them all…”

Margret disturbed by the revelation, tries to remain calm and collect. “They will get him. We will get him.”

 ******

Read Next Chapter 26: Iguana Island

Read Other Realm Komiks Chapters

Realm Komiks Prequel: New Worlds Chapter 22: Arrival

Chaper 22:

Arrival

Margret and Colm stroll through the long hallways, hands intertwined. “His room is in here.” Colm stops.

Margret pauses hesitant, “I’m a little nervous about this.”

“I know. I can feel it.” Colm leans in and kisses her forehead and Margret begins to feel a calm pressing against her nerves.

“You don’t have to try and calm my nerves.” she shakes her head.

“Of course I do.” He grins opening the door and allowing her to enter.

She gives him an unapprovingly glance before entering.

The room is much like all the others, plain and colorless, translucent shields keep digital labeled bins snug, hovering above one another.

“Hello, Margret,” the gentlemen eagerly greets her with a hug, as if this was not a first meeting.

He had an odd but pleasurable smell to her nose, an aged Cepaen still displaying many attractive features.

“She is a bit nervous.” Colm deciphers.

“Not to be.” He insists. “Hakim is the name.” He removes the translucent door, ejecting a bin and taking from it.”

“Should I sit?” she hesitates.

“If you choose, it can bring a slight dizziness, but only for a couple seconds.” He turns and smiles.

She looks at Colm for a moment. ‘If it makes you feel more comfortable sit, my love’. He intrudes.

She slowly sits, searching for the item Hakim holds in his hand. “So, I’ll be able to understand thousands of languages, in the universe, once it’s implanted?”

Hakim titters, “Oh no, Margret. You will be able to understand three billion languages, to be exact.”

“Are there that many to know?” she wonders.

“I am sure more than that. We haven’t discovered them all.” He grins. “Ready?”

“It’s very small?” she wonders, “I won’t be able to feel it?”

Colm kneels down to her, “Like a blade of grass, but thinner, shorter, and not green.”

“You have one, you said?” she seeks the reassurance from her love.

“All us Planeteers do.” He reminds her.

“So since, I’m partial human it will still have the same effect on my brain? You are sure of this?” She questions Hakim.

Hakim shows her the small rectangle, device with a yellow lit dot on it.  “I attach it to your cerebral cortex, up here, underneath your hair,” he points, “I then release the device, causing this small light to turn orange, it’s as thin as one of these hairs on your head. Acupuncture like, you will not feel a thing. The mechanism then guides the thin device to attach itself to Wernicke’s area of the brain. Once there the mechanism light will then shine red, informing it is time for removal.”

Colm chimes in, “Then once we step off the ship, there won’t be a country on your planet that will sound foreign. You will be able to speak all their languages and understand. You will be the same of us Planeteers, and importantly we will not have to decipher languages for you.”

“I remember.” She sighs flatly.

“Ready then?” Hakim politely asks, already searching for placement upon her skull before she can answer. “Hold still. Don’t move.”

“What happens if I moved?” she suddenly wants to know, not being able to see the device is attached and light switching to orange.

“Size of a folic of hair, is still an interruption in the brain. Don’t want to disturb the path and chance it slicing through a part of your brain that it shouldn’t...”

“Oh, good to now know.” She grabs to the chair steading her. “Okay I’m ready.”

The small device light flashes to red. “You’re already done.” Hakim smirks.

“Really? That’s it?” she exhales a sigh of relief, feeling Colm squeezing her hand.

“That’s it, Margret. It has been such a pleasure finally meeting you. I’ve heard so many wonderful things pertaining to you.” Hakim compliments stepping away.

“Why thank you, Hakim. Likewise.” She grins humble.

“Thank you, Hakim.” Colm nods leading Margret from the room. “Time we join the others.”

“I’ve always wanted to travel to European countries. The thoughts… of Paris… Wow. Never did I think that it would be like this, though.” Margret’s eyes lock on Colm’s causing him to grab her in an embrace and kiss her passionately.

“I promise, I will take you to Paris, after this over.” He softly gives her lips a last peck. “Your images are amazing.”

“They are only of what I’ve seen on television.” She admits.

He tugs on her hand leading her to a large room, so many winged creatures in one area, the radiant and beauty made Margret envision what a heaven must appear to be; their features so perfect and precise as if Michelangelo carved each one from hand.

Natika approaches, of course embracing them in a group hug for speaking. “This is it. We are here,” she tries enthusiasm but her voice quakes a bit. “I’ve never been to another planet or met another Earthling, other than you, Margret. I must say my stomach feels rather fickle.” She tries to grin.

“We call it butterflies, feels like they are fluttering in your stomach. Nervous feeling.” She warmly grins, unexpectedly finding herself touching Natika for a bit of comfort. “Where’s Zulima?” she quickly switches gears, eyes searching the room.

“She’s out of transportation with Mother and Father. They are speaking to France government officials, meeting the commander of the Franco-German Brigade regiment that is located here. Now we wait.” Natika informs.

“Do you know where here is?” Margret wonders.

Natika nods, “It’s called Metz. Metz-Frescaty Airforce Base.”

Colm gives a toothy grin. “She has no idea where that is.”

Margret playfully elbows him in the side, “Must you tell everything?”

“France?” Natika tries to remember. “The country France?”

“Much more helpful to me. It all comes together now.” Margret blushes.

The door fades from the barrier to the outside, and Father appears in the door. “It is time to meet your joining forces. Zulima will stay in your company. Mother and I will depart from here to the city, Geneva. We will stay in direct contact with our devices. The devices operate on Earth as they do our planet. Please, leave inquiries for Zulima, once we all depart from this Air Base. Please remember that their army has never seen winged people. They have however been prepared for the appearance.”

Natika quickly falls back to Colm’s side, Margret close on the other, biting her lip. Margret’s heart suddenly becomes joyfully heavily, realizing at the same time as Colm, that two of their best friends have just entered, with Hakim close behind them.

“Opal.” And endearing relief falls from her lips, quickly nuzzling the handsome steed between her arms. Her fingers stroke his neck, feeling the softness and subtle twitching on her skin. His velvet muzzle finds her and gives a comforting sigh, misting her skin from his breath. She kisses Opal’s squishy muzzle, “I’m going to keep you safe. No one will hurt you.”

Her head tilts toward Colm who strokes Nacreous, promising the same reassurances.

“What will you do?” Natika ask Hakim bringing Margret and Colm’s attention directly toward him.

“I wait.” He nods. “My duty is here. I’m not alone. We will keep things close and safe until you all return.”

“All is a kind word.” Margret feels her heart heavy, for a moment, of the thought.

Hakim’s lips tighten and he gracefully nods, “Until then.” He gives the three of them a hug and then nods toward the door, the clearing becoming easy access.

Colm grabs Margret’s hand and Natika locks his arms tightly. “Let’s do this.”

*****

Tsunami is in awe of the Bahamas, it is much more like home, than what she had seen of the United States Country. Marlin had already departed with the Bahamas defense forces, and Acquavodians’ warriors. They are to join other forces throughout the countries, once it was figured why, walking reptiles are now walking cities along the coastlines. The only planet ever known of such a thing was Surraja, which seemed irrelevant to Earth or the Divobitian planet.

Kae retrieved the communication essentials for their division and then, the two were taken to an extravagant luxury, ironically called Atlantis.  Dressed now, in clothing of Earth custom, to ‘blend in’, yet followed by two beefy men to assure their safety. One appointed to Tsunami and one toward Kae, though neither of them were comfortable enough to separate one another.

Tsunami and Kae sat watching magnificent ocean creatures trapped behind a piece of glass, viewers ‘ooing ‘and ‘ahhing’ over their miraculous beauty, pointing and lifting their little Earthlings for better looks, not one, feeling the display of captivity, could be wronged. 

“It is odd, don’t you think?” Tsunami lets the thought roll from her lips as she observes.

“It’s relaxing.” Kae tries positivity, “Perhaps it is what soothes them?”

“They find knowledge in this custom as well.” Tsunami adds.

Kae looks at her curious, “You’ve read this?”

“Pure observation, Kae,” Tsunami smug, “Watch, some of the children’s parents, they’re reading those plaques to them, they explain what the creatures are. I believe it is a visual learning tool they need to understand the life in their waters.”

“What’s on her forehead, Mommy?” Tsunami sees the tot pulling at the mother who now blushes.

“No pointing.” The mother scolds, “I apologize.” The woman tells Tsunami, as if it were her words. She then begins to scurry the child along.

“They are different type of Oppenheimer.” Tsunami calls toward her.

The child halts intrigued struggling to walk back toward Tsunami. ‘Thank You’, the mother silently mouths pushing the child along to the next exhibit.

Kae shakes his head, “If they returned, curious, would you explain the significance and dimension, of each degree of Oppenheimer that rest above your brows?”

“I would not admit their power, if that is what you are asking.” She grunts, “You are now starting to sound like Bruinen or Marlin.”

“Good.” He stresses, “The Earthling children are adorable, no doubt, but please stop trying to cater to their curiosity. It will only end up drowning us.”

She rolls her eyes standing.

“Where are you going?” he insist.

“I’m tired of sitting here. I’m ready to go outside and explore.” She begins walking and he quickly follows, noticing the guards hidden in the shadows, now moving.

The heat is heavy once she steps outside, but toward the sky only one blazing star makes it a tad milder than what she is used to her on her planet. She stops and watches the ocean, the clear waves crashing against the coast, families’ frolicking in the waves or sunbathing on the sideline.  “How difficult it is, not to engage with the ocean the way I know.” She sighs.

“Soon enough you will be engaging with it in a way you have never known.” Kae reminds her.

She turns toward him and his eyes suddenly widen, pulling her face into his shoulder, leaning against his thin chest.

“What are you doing?” she struggles to push away.

“Tsu, your forehead, its’ lighting up. The jewels…” he panics.

“Okay, let me go. I’ll cover them with my hair and we will retreat inside somewhere.” She pulls away from him letting parts of her hair dangle in front her face.

“Has that happened before?” he ask.

“Never.” She explains, “But we’ve never been this close to ancient stone.”

*******

Coming into the crisp air of Earth, it felt a little smugger than what she had become accustom to on the Cepae planet. The Brigades eyes, uncontrollably, wide toward all the winged beings standing before them and then suddenly wider noticing Opal and Nacreous following close behind. As her feet hit the runway she found her head protectively grasping Opal’s cheek, as if a mother protective of a child.

“That is everyone.” Zulima announces, the Franco-German commander gives a nod, then  spouting a command that causes the military to turn and march.

The Cepaen warriors follow behind, with no current formation. “Our formations are in flight,” Colm whispers to Margret, again must be prying upon her thoughts.

She wants to be annoyed but is in relief that he is so close to her. They walk through the large air force base, the military men in France now talking among the Cepae warriors, harmonizing. The commander fraternizes with Zulima, who appears so far ahead. The unipegs follow close behind, Margret curious to how nothing was concerned upon their entry. Do they know Unipegs will find their way outside if they need to relieve themselves… she wonders, finding herself searching Colm’s face, seeing if he were listening once again.

Instead, he is engaged with Natika, participating in mild chatter and brief laughter.

Margret struggles to not feel envy of their friendship, and decides not to pry, instead admiring the experience, flinging a small peck against Opal’s muzzle.

Up ahead, Zulima and the Commander pause, causing the reaction among everyone. “I am Commander DuPont, again for those of us meeting the first time.” He begins. “And again, this is Zulima, who resides next to my side.” He introduces, following with a speech, in French, Margret sure to not understand if it weren’t for Hakim’s implant.

“Let us unite among each other, find a harmony of peace and understanding as we move forward together in joining other European forces to stop the spread of the vampire into our world.” He continues, “It is our honor to work alongside a planet as peaceful and loving as yours, that we find trust and security as you fight above, to what we cannot reach. We are eager to learn your ways as we hope you are eager in learning ours, let this be a defining moment in truce between France, Germany and the Cepae planet as we move forward into a combat we not know what yet awaits for us.”

The earthlings begin to cheer, the excitement contagious to the loving Cepaens, who in return, begin grabbing random military, and in doing the thing they know best, hugging them. Margret finds too much humor in the loving but chaotic scene and begins with uncontrollable laughter; finally, her not the only victim to the huge amount of hugs, of the flawless, Cepaen people.

“We should contribute,” Colm grins.

“You go; I’ll stay next to Opal and Nacreous.” She insists.

“They are fine. Nothing is going to happen to them.” Colm tries to reassure her.

“Keep telling yourself that,” she squints toward him, “These two rarities, on Earth, will make someone very rich if they were to get their hands on them.”

She feels Colm trying to pry further in her mind and she quickly blocks him. Mind yourself. She mentally scolds. He returns a sly glance and he joins the crowd in introductions.

A man, walks to Margret, “They are magical.” His eyes light up. “May I touch it?”

Margret thinks for a moment meeting the unipegs sweet faces, feeling Opal’s flattery. “They are flattered. Yes.” Margret decides not to deny the unipegs their glory. “They are unipegs.”

The man gently holds out his hand for a moment, before stroking their velvety skin. “I feel as though I am in a dream today. Tomorrow I will wake, and everything will be as it always was.”

“I completely understand.” She finds herself speaking the French language. “I at one time too felt this could only be a dream.”

“To be on Earth?” he decides.

She pauses for a moment, wondering if she should reveal her imposter self, but instead thinks of it being easier to not explain at all, “France. It’s lovely, from what I’ve heard, and I’m anxiously waiting to explore.”

“I can show you.” He enthusiastically offers. “Oh, may I?” he suddenly changes the subject pulling a small, black felted bag from the hidden pocket beneath his uniform. “May they have this small treat? It is called a sugar cube. It is what we give our horses. They look much similar without the horn and wings.”

“You’re an animal lover to carry around sugar cubes?” Margret’s lips purse as she sizes up the man’s integrity.

He finds a smile, “I am. I ride at night when I leave here. Our horses are nothing as impressive as your creatures, but I’d be honor to introduce you to them.”

“Honestly, I am not sure if they should have the cubes,” she quickly changes the subject, remembering Colm’s story of how horses came to be on Earth in the first place, “We have them on a strict diet from our own planet. It’s important they stay on it.”

He nods, “No offense taken. Of course.” Packing the sugar cube away, I can take you on that journey tonight though, if you’d like, we could invite some others from your planet if it would make you more comfortable.”

“Perhaps, not the horses so much as the city itself?” she suggest.

Colm returns to Margret’s side. “We have a night here before we depart on our journey.”

“Oh, yes, um…I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name?” Margret inquires toward the Franco-German solider.

“Lucas.” He smiles.

“Nice to meet you Lucas.” She turns toward Colm, “Lucas will take us out to see the city.”

“I’m not sure. Everyone is staying in; we don’t exactly fit in out there.” Colm unsteadily tries to explain.

“Nonsense. We do. We don’t have wings hanging off our back.” She disagrees, “I want to explore Metz while we are here. Please come with. Maybe Zulima will even join, some of the other healers?”

“Look, I do not want to cause friction, it was merely an offer. Please find me if you decide you want to go.” He nods giving Margret a kiss on her hand and turning away to some of his other men.

Colm is blind to Lucas’ subtle flirtation, “Very well. One night we see the city, but I feel we should seek Zulima’s approval.”

“Of course.” Margret agrees turning to the unipegs, “Don’t worry, you’ll stay with the warriors. You’ll be safe.”

******

Tsunami exits the restroom, short, thick bangs dangling above her brows, “Better?” she ask.

“Oh, yes, I can’t see them at all.” Kae stands.  “Are you ready to check out this place?”

“I am.” She excitedly admits.

*****

The night air is smooth against her face; the salty, ocean scent, falling heavenly against her nose. They walk into the casino area of Atlantis, now booming with nightlife. “That man over there has drinks. Let’s see what an Earth drink taste of.” She suggests.

Kae hesitantly follows her to the bar. “What can I get you?” the bartender asks.

“Uh…. A drink.” Tsunami decides.

“What kind,” he tries to hurry her along.

“My first time here, surprise us.” She smiles.

“Okay, your surprise then.” He nods his head, then mixing liquids, shaking, pouring and garnishing; Tsunami’s head swings back and forth trying to follow the man’s sudden movements.

He slides two blush, iced drinks, with floating orange slices, cherry and topped with a decorative umbrella.  “That’s eight.” He instructs.

“Only two…?” Kae questions.

Tsunami quickly whispers toward him, “Their currency, remember. They do things with paper or that plastic stuff, here. Do you have that thin card thing, they gave us?” she ask.

“It’s in the room.” Kae sighs. “I have that card key they gave us.”

“You room here?” The bartender chimes in.

“We do.” Tsunami nods.

He slides over a piece of paper and gives her a pen, “Just write your room number here and sign.”

She observes the pen for a second and then spies a man across the bar using the writing utensil. She watches as he confidently scribbles and slides the paper across the wood and walks away with his drink. She chews her lip for a moment and then subtly, lets the ball point tip touch the paper, lifting and witnessing a small microscopic dot against the paper. “Hmmm, look at that,” she grins writing their room number and making a line across the paper where her signature belongs. “Our penmanship is slightly different.” She hands it back to him.

He eyes her oddly, “Well, okay.” He swipes the paper and quickly falls into the next customer.

Tsunami hands Kae his drink and with a grin at one another they begin sipping, the sweetness sparking against her tongue, followed by a faint burning, trailing down her throat. “Wow.” Her pupils exploding against the taste.

Kae chugs his down and when he comes up for air grinning, “I’m ready for another. That was quite invigorating.”

*****

Three hours later they find themselves stumbling against one another over man made rocks, decorated through imaginary streams, caves, decorated with aquariums of fish. “I feel a bit dizzy, Kae and tired.”

Kae begins to chuckle, “Look at those Earthlings over there.”

“What are they doing?” Tsunami slurs, “Talking to the fish?”

“Do you think the fish understand?” Kae laughs.

“Perhaps we should take note, maybe they are cleverer than we have thought…” she tumbles up to the couple who quickly quiets their laughter, judging her “Are you talking to the fish?”

“Ooooooh, I thought you meant the fish more clever. Not the Earthlings!” Kae howls.

The man laughs with them, “We were. Oddly, talking to the fish, that is.”

“Wow.” Tsunami’s mouth exaggerated. “When did Earthlings require this gift?”

“Uh…Well…” words lost, he turns to his lover.

“We’ve always had it.” She smirks. “Look at the fish; he just keeps staring at us. Observing us as much as we observing him.”

“Yes! He is. Though he is obviously a she.” Tsunami laughs trying to lean her body against the wall and falling over. Kae runs to pick her, struggling and falling over her.

“Have fun tonight you two!” the couple calls back to them quickly hurrying away, “You get too drunk, the hangover is awful under the sun.”

“What’s drunk?” Tsunami pouts to Kae, trying to push herself off the ground, she surrenders resting her head down on the concrete and staring up at the fish swimming over her.

Kae cracks up laughing, “I’m not sure Tsunami. I need to get some of these drinks for back home though.”

*****

Margret’s head rises to the night sky, hitting the peak of Cathedrale Saint –Eteinne, even more massive under the spotlights, defining the huge stain glass window in center. “It’s breathtaking.” She sighs.

Colm pulls her into his side, “The structures here are magnificent. I’ve never seen such royalty owned, in simple buildings such as this.”

“Because they aren’t simple at all. Not only does the magnitude of the beauty amaze you, but the history of them, it burns a curious flow deep in your veins.”

Colm brings her in, embracing her, “Come let us see more before we need to meet up with the others.”

Margret and Colm run through the city, dancing past the fountain of the Opera-Theatre and traveling in taxis to the Temple Neuf and further; the full moon adding light to their exploration.

The night finally ends them at Vivian’s Pub Fairy, where Zulima sits at a table with some  military men, including Lucas, and Cepae’s healers.

“It’s a shame that Natika and the other warriors don’t get to experience this.” She thinks aloud.

“I agree. But they are having their own festivities with some of the other people of Franco-German resident. A gala of a time. Even our unipegs are there.” Colm beams with the excitement, “After our meal here, let’s join them.

“Okay,” Margret agrees, then hesitates, “Wait, how did you know about the other festivities.”

“Natika contacted me when we were out, of course.” Colm approaches the table.

“Of course.” Margret mumbles from under her breath.

Margret’s body quickly drifts toward Zulima, wrapping her arms around her. Zulima pulls a chair from another table allowing Margret to sit beside her, feeling suddenly important, as Zulima has felt untouchable since they have arrived. “Commander DuPont, this is Margret, your very own Earthling I have spoken of.”

“Margret, what a pleasure and honor it is for you to be part of such a beautiful planet, yet were grounded here on Earth, with us at one time.” He tries to compliment.

“Thank you, sir.” She nods, “It is indeed a honor. Zulima found me, here on Earth, became the mother I’ve always wish to have.”

Zulima’s lips widen warmly as she slightly lets out a bashful burst of laughter, “Really, Margret often talks up a rare moment that presented itself. I merely acted and fell in love with the dear child.”

“Modest too, if you noticed, Commander, Sir,” Margret finds Colm chatting toward the end of the table, meeting her hazel eyes for a brief moment and giving a twinkle. She returns the gesture as he returns to his conversation, her head toward Zulima and the DuPont, yet her eyes shifting. One long table, laughing soldiers and healers among one another; Cepae and Earth, two planets sitting in the same pub, Metz, a city of France… Margret’s heart feels warm as she lets her head fall against Zulima’s shoulder, the laughter, the French people’s inappropriate pub humor, falling upon the peaceful night… now becoming interrupted with horrid visions of death… 

Read Chapter 23: Rogue
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