Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp (Tiva Boon Series Book 2) (17 page)

“Make it a priority, Doctor.” Maar turned and eyed Tiva.

“You got it, Cap…salutations, Ms. Boon, I didn’t see you there.”

“Doctor, Captain.” She nodded to both. “I did not mean to interrupt, I was curious.”

“It’s fine, is everything checked and sealed?” Maar asked.

“Yes, though it seems you have found the cause.”

“Most likely, Hino will confirm it, but keep the detention cell sealed until I give the word,” he replied and walked to the door. He turned back and glanced down at the Doctor who was already working. “Inform me when your results come in, no matter what the time.”
“Aye, sir,” Hino answered and turned back to his computer.

Tiva followed Maar out of the infirmary and down the hall. He was lost in thought; that much apparent on his face.

When the doors opened to the command center, everyone spoke at once. Captain Maar held up his hand and all went silent. He strode to his seat, and turned to Hill.

“Internal sweeps confirm only Hemko was in the detention cell, Raife says we are twenty hours from Ovvella, and everything else is running smoothly, sir.” He took his seat.

“Everyone, listen up,” Maar bellowed. Tiva got to her station, and silently contacted her team to get on patrols while her attention split to the captain. “The Bujeni have taken their own lives. There is no threat to the crew, but we are to remain on high alert until we reach Base. One of them slipped during interrogation, and told me they are part of something called the Triune Syndicate. The Pizilite, Kihlmaro, and Bujeni are continuing to build their forces.” A few of the crew grumbled, the others turned to him, looks of anger apparent on their faces. “Our ultimate goal is peace with these aliens, and every means to achieve this will be taken, however force is not out of the question as we know the damage they can inflict.”

A hush floated through the air. Tiva met Aliri’s gaze, then Emerala’s. She offered a shrug of sympathy, not knowing what else to do or say. She too wanted peace, for her people and herself.

Suddenly, all eyes moved to Hill who had coughed to get everyone’s attention.

“Captain Maar is already aware, but I felt it only fitting I should be the one to tell you before rumors start spreading.”

Tiva stripped her gaze from her displayer and followed Hill as he paced the length of the room.

“When we return to Ovvella, I am taking command of a new ship.” He paused, glanced down, and then continued, “I have enjoyed my time with the
Tolox
crew, but with this threat of this Triune Syndicate, the Union feels we need more ships to help protect our allies, and have offered me command.”

Several of the crew said a few congratulatory words, but she felt their sadness. They were losing a friend, a mentor, and a member of their family. Ultimately, though, the desire to help the many races of the universe required more ships, more captains, and more negotiators.

“I hope you all will join me on Base for a drink before I ship out. I know things are still tense, but we can’t forget to live.”

“Sounds fun,” Adam said.

“Yeah, I’m sure we’ll all enjoy that.” Aliri said.

Tiva had a lot to think about. She made her excuses after shift and went back to her room. Once again, the light on her computer was blinking. There was a message.
Harai’s voice cut the silence of the room.

“
Tiva my friend, the situation has turned dire. Neola has contacted me again and said that ships are in orbit around Abennelp. She sent me an image of one of the ships, maybe you can find out who they are. I’m afraid I cannot contact Abennelp again, a communications block has been placed around the planet. Please respond quickly and let me know what you want me to do. Be well my friend. Harai.
”

Tiva she sat on her bed and studied her face in the mirror as she listened to all her messages again. The fate of the people of Abennelp was now within her hands. Tiva Boon, last Royal Guardian, last of the royal bloodline. She changed so much since leaving home, could she still help her people?

Harer allowed her to become an elite guardian. It was a break in tradition, despite how small it was in retrospect. Could she make such a powerful and lasting change to ensure peace for them? She still had to return home first and meet her fate. But the current threat to the Union was more pressing. Since she had to remain with them for the time being, she would take her time deciding what to do about home.

Sleep came easier, and when she woke in the morning, she felt relaxed and refreshed. The
Tolox
and several other ships, including three brand new commissions docked at Ovvella overnight. The Base was well guarded, that much was clear by the various special security teams and proximity buoys anchored in space around the area but she stayed on the ship. She toured the arboretum, spent some time in the VR room then after getting something to eat, and returned to her room to wash up. Next, she ran the picture Harai sent through the computer database. If she could just figure out who was supplying the Rebels she might be able to plan her next move.

A few dull hours passed. Certain her friends were having fun Tiva felt slightly left out, though it was her own doing. She needed the time to think about what she should do. However, feeling the need to stretch her legs, she ventured off the ship and walked the upper ring of the promenade.

She peered out the second porthole of the scenic ring. She thought about the last time she was here, sky dancing with Adam.

“And that, my good man, is why I hate zombies,” Adam’s voice echoed behind her. Her body tensed and she shut her eyes. “Excuse me...Something’s just come up,” he said, then a gust of wind rushed past her. “Tiva!”

“Greetings, Adam.”

“You missed the party, the second party…” He tilted his head studying her. “What’s going on, Tiva?

“I needed to think. I am unsure what to do about the situation on my home planet.”

“Well, remember, you can talk to me, and your other friends of course – they want to help in any way they can... But now, my Princess Tiva, I wanted to speak to you about something... in particular. Do you remember when I told you that I was
almost
ready to break the emotional barrier with you? Well the reason I said I was almost ready is because I wanted to do something special for you. I wanted to do things the way you’re used to. So, I spent hours carving and re-carving this thing, getting it just right. Nothing less than perfection for my Tiva. A crystal rose, carved with Cala’s blade and my craftsmanship.”

Tiva stared at Adam, amazed as his hand went to his waist to retrieve the rose that hung there.

“May the beauty of this flower never fade...” Adam said, as Tiva’s eyes filled with tears. “You know that my intentions are honorable and true...Please accept me as I am, or deny... my heart,” he spoke hesitantly, but his voice was full of feeling.

The scene outside the porthole had not changed, but the nebula seemed to sparkle joyfully when she looked back out. Taking a deep breath, Tiva replied, “I accept you, if you accept me. My heart will crave no other.”

He placed his hand on her cheek. Cala thrummed with excitement. Tiva smiled as her markings pinked. He grinned and offered her the rose. “I believe this is yours.”

Taking it in hand brought joyful tears to her eyes. Adam drew her close with both arms and she immediately felt the change. His mind opened to her, Cala no longer shielded him. A wave of deep caring and love for her blasted her mind. Beneath the desire and devotion, she sensed the torment of a long-lived soul. There was so much inside him. Decades of loneliness and loss, an overwhelming sense of honor and protection for those he loved. It was hard to take, but she sifted through, focusing on his feeling for her, letting them flow through her.

Before she said anything, his lips pressed against hers sending the powerful emotions through her body. His desires became hers. Feelings of belonging consumed her. It was everything and more than what she imagined. She sensed him completely for the first time. The kiss drew her in as her hands moved up his back to keep him near.

His feelings easily broke her emotional barrier; she felt the instant change. The emotions surged through her like a soft Warming wind waking her at early morning. Adam’s wings enveloped her, the strength of his embrace made her feel completely safe.

Their lips met again, she felt her markings turn white. The desires swelled and changed, their connection grew strong. A link formed between them, and finally, she was experiencing exactly what her mother told her about so long ago. She was falling in love.

The lights around them glowed bright red, and Ambassador Dival’s voice rang though the promenade. “All Vexillum personnel to your ships immediately!”

Adam landed and placed Tiva on the floor. He folded his wings back, grabbed her hand, and took off running toward the docking deck. She followed obediently, the whirlwind in her head keeping her slightly off balance. He was shielded once again, but she still sensed him somehow, it was comforting. Guiding her protectively through the crowd of people, he entered the corridor and ran to the lift.

“This is Cooper, what’s the situation?” he said into his wrist-comm as they descended.

“Don’t know, Captain Maar’s not back yet, we’re prepping to leave base.” Emerala’s soft voice sounded terrified.

“We’ll be there in a jiff!” The lift stopped and she was already halfway down the platform as Adam glided through the small space.

They arrived in the command center to a buzz of activity. Raife and Emerala were powering up the ships systems, Aliri was obviously scanning for something, and Hemko was standing guard, but Maar still had not arrived. Adam finally let go of her hand and took his post. She jogged around back, meeting eyes with everyone and accessed her terminal, supporting Ranndom from the command center. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, but the tension on the ship was apparent, she went about her sweeps and set up her teams around the ship.

An hour maybe two seemed to pass. The doors of the lift finally opened and Captain Maar walked out.

He took to the middle of the room, and looked over each person slowly. Rubbing the back of his neck, he focused his gaze toward his chair. Tiva held her breath waiting for him to speak. Finally, he said, “The Triune Syndicate has attacked another space station. All attempts to negotiate and find a peaceful solution have failed.”

“What is this alert for, sir? Are they heading this way?” Aliri asked.

“No, Caedm.” He paused and sighed. “The Union has just declared war.”

B
lood stained the hallways. The bodies of hundreds of faceless people lay still, twisted and broken. She hovered over them, confused. Whispers of the dead rang through her ears, calling her toward the end of the hall. Stepping over the carnage, she focused on the light. It was brighter than a thousand suns and warm beyond her comprehension. She wanted to rush to it, but her steps grew heavy.

Something grabbed her foot.

With a swift stroke, her sword found the attacker and the hand of the phantom vanished.

“We have waited so long for you…” the voices spoke softly. The spirits of her family called to her. Stretching out her hand, she struggled to reach the doorway...

“Do not leave me again!” she cried. Her body slipped off the chair and Tiva opened her eyes to find herself on the floor of her living area. Another nightmare. They had become commonplace for many of the
Tolox
crew.

The Vexillum had been at war with the Triune Syndicate for weeks. Fierce battles in space and planet side had taken their toll on both sides. Gaps in the fighting were few; the enemy was resilient and stubborn. They made no demands on the Union and their cause was unknown; it was a familiar situation in an unfamiliar setting.

Tiva wiped the sweat from her brow and retired to her bedroom. She still had several hours before her shift started. Falling back to the bed, she sighed and closed her eyes. She was certain the dream was from her first battle on the Kihlmaro ship. Adam and Raife converted the laser cannon into a shield disrupter. Emerala and Aliri made enough teleporting devices for most of the crew. Tiva’s security team attempted a hostile takeover of the enemy vessel. The Union wanted prisoners for questioning. Her team was almost successful, but back up ships came to the Kihlmaro’s aid. She lost Axium on that mission and her heart still carried the guilt.

Living among these people for the last two years hadn’t been easy, but it had become her home and her loyalty was torn. These people trusted her and cared for her well-being; their support over the last several months was proof enough, but the guilt of leaving Abennelp to fend for itself made it difficult for her to choose.

She was sure that if she asked Adam to take her home now, he would find a way. He was resourceful and would do anything in his power to help, but she had yet to ask. She knew where her path was leading.

Falling in love during war was not easy. Yet, each day she felt more drawn to him. They spent time together whenever possible, though rare and often short in duration. A meal here and there, a quick walk in the arboretum, and the occasional meetings in the halls and lifts did not help strengthen their relationship, but the time apart made her realize how true her feelings had become. Learning about one another more intimately was a unique experience and she savored every moment she had with him.

The beep of her computer caught her attention. She jumped up and ran across the room. With a quick tap on the panel, Adam’s voice came alive.

“Good morning, m’lady. Stop by for breakfast when you wake up.” Tiva smiled and made her way to the lavatory to wash up.

Once her hair was dried and braided, she donned a clean uniform and headed to Adam’s room. The hallways were empty, everyone was taking time to rest and get away from their duties while they had the chance. Tiva was no exception. Spending the morning with Adam before shift would be a nice change. She had yet to visit with Adam in his living quarters. It would be interesting to see more of who he was by examining his possessions. He had lived many, many years – ample time to gather items from all over the universe.

She turned the corner and rapt gently on the door. A moment passed and Adam’s grinning face appeared as the door slid open. She returned the smile, but was unprepared for the hug. Chuckling, Tiva wrapped her arms around him as he spun around bringing her into the room. “Hello, Tivava!”

“Greetings, Adam,” she replied. He placed her back on the ground, but kept his hands in place. He was dressed in short pants, and something he called a T-shirt with a sword on it. He was full of energy after a good night’s sleep, she wished she could say the same for herself. “How are you and Cala today?”

“We’re great, better now that you’re here.”

Good morning, Princess Tiva.

Good morning, Cala.
“Thank you for inviting me.”
“You’re always invited, m’lady.” He leaned down and kissed her softly then led her to the living area. “Make yourself comfy, I’ve got some bagels and juice from Vinni.”

Adam vanished into the back and Tiva walked around the room looking at the various displays on his walls. Several objects and various creature parts, including something that resembled a horn, were scattered about the room. His sword collection hung proudly behind the couch, and a few peculiar alien weapons sat on top of a wooden chest. On the wall near the windows was an old style picture. “Who are these people?”

“Oh, the picture? They’re my family...” he called back.

“Tell me who they are?”

“That’s mother and father, my sister...and the twins...” he answered as he stepped up behind her. “No idea who the handsome kid with the black wings is, though.” He smirked and handed her a glass of orange juice. “That’s the first family I had on Earth.”

“It is a lovely picture, Adam.”

“It is not the beauty that makes me keep it.”

“I understand. I still carry a painting of my family.” She studied the faces. “Did you not find it difficult to live on Earth? My understanding of their history is such that they did not know of alien cultures until the late twenty-first century.”

“Well, aside from my family and a few close friends…no one ever saw my wings, I kept them hidden under cloaks or jackets. It wasn’t easy but, I did what I had to.”

“It must have been difficult concealing who you were.”

“Yeah, it wasn’t a picnic…” He sighed and glanced at the picture. “I miss Dee.”

“Your granddaughter?”

He chuckled softly and took her hand guiding her to the table. “Yes, but not the one I mean. Dee, the little girl. She was my sister, such a nice kid. She was sweet and innocent, at least she was last time I saw her.”

“Do you not know what happened to her?”

“No, her grandmother took her away when mother found out…”

“Found out what?” Tiva asked as she sat and began pulling apart the bagel.

“That she was a witch.”

“A witch, like the mystics of my world,” Tiva stated, more for herself than to Adam. Everything she knew about Adam’s adoptive home world was nothing short of unique. They had wild fairy tales and stories of fantastic creatures and beings. Some seemed so real in their depth; she found it hard to separate truth from tale. “Why would she take her if Dee possessed such gifts?”

“Witchcraft on Earth has long been considered evil, up until the point where nobody believed in it anymore. Most feared witches and everything supernatural. Back in the day those accused of such backgrounds were burned or murdered…”

“So your sister was taken for protection?”

“Yes, her grandmother didn’t want her to get hurt.” Adam shrugged and took a sip of his juice. “After the twins and I were out on our own, I decided to go looking for Dee, but I never found her. The legends say that witches are immortal. Sometimes I wonder... Is she still alive? Did she even get a chance to grow up? And if so...what kind of woman did she become?”

Tiva took his hand from across the table and squeezed gently. “I cannot answer these questions for you Adam, but what do you feel in your heart has happened?”

“I don’t know. I honestly don’t know.”

“I am sorry, Adam.”

“Don’t worry about it. We’ve all got our problems.”

“Indeed, but I know her face now, perhaps two people searching will be better than one.”

“Thanks,” he said, lifting her hand to his lips. “You’re very warm, Tiva, is the temperature too high?”

“It is slightly higher than I normally keep it, I can adjust.” She smiled and unfastened her tunic. The short-sleeved shirt underneath was lighter and she felt better immediately.

“I like adjustments.”

“Pardon?”

“Never mind. So, you like my collection?”

She bobbed her head and looked around. After sipping the last of her juice, she met his eyes and smiled. “You have had many years to collect things.”

“Yup. I’m a bit of a hoarder I like hanging on to the things I feel are important,” he said, and stared into her eyes. “But mostly, I have all the things I’ve taken since the last time I was back home. I keep some of my fun stuff with me here.” He jumped up from the chair, his wings flaring slightly. She watched him cross the room and pick up a long metal weapon. It was fashioned like a plasma gun, but it was longer and had several buttons and knobs. “This is a rifle from a species called Rusorians. Their race is almost gone, but a few still live on Bayo.”

“What happened to them?”

“Not really sure.” He put down the gun, moved toward the horn, and picked it up. “I don’t think they really know either. But they have been around the universe for a very long time. Probably as long as me. Now this belonged to a Sivaro beast. On my old ship, we encountered this species. They were very animal like, not bipeds like you and me. Vicious, they were. But of course, no match for Cala.”

“Indeed,” she chuckled. She moved into the living area for a better look at his swords. The katana she had used hung on top, perfectly shined, and sharpened. “You were not jesting when you said you had a collection of swords.”

“Nifty, huh? I have others, but those are my favorites…” He took a seat resting Cala against the arm of the couch and patted the cushion next to him. Tiva smiled and sat down. A wing and an arm were soon around her shoulder. She leaned into him and sighed, happily. “How are you holding up?”

“Speak what you mean.”

“It’s been a stressful month. Constantly fighting, teleporting, searching for the Triune Syndicate. It gets tiring.”

“Oh, I am fine. Doctor Hino says that I am in perfect health.”

“That’s good. How are things at home? Have you heard from your friend Harai?” he asked as his hand stroked her arm softly.

“No, she has not responded. I am not worried, yet. Messages to Uucor take longer when we are this far way.”

“Yeah, that’s true. Well, I’m sure everything will be fine.”

“I pray to the spirits you are right, Adam. I must return eventually. But I have to weigh my options and determine who is willing to help before I can plan what I will do. I am needed there…”

“Some of us need you here too!”

“Who? I have trained the security forces; they know everything I can teach them. They can handle most situations…”

“Well, forgive me for being selfish, but you’re the only person in this god damned universe that I can relate to short of a talking sword and my own reflection!”

His words were true enough; they knew each other well and had similar history, beliefs, and ways of living. But Adam had been through the trials of his own life many times over. She had yet to finish what had started on her home world. The Rebels needed to be overthrown. Restoring order to her people was within her power and it was her duty. She released herself from his arm and began pacing. She knew he would go to Abennelp with her if she asked, but she also knew what awaited her there.

“Relating to me is not a need. Neola and the others have put their trust and faith in me. I worry what awaits me, but it will not sway me. I have decided that I will return home and face my fate there.”

“Is that what you really want?”

“I want many things. I wish to help my people. I wish to help my friends here. And I want to be with you…”

“I know that…”

“But I cannot stay here. I have to go back.”

“That damn prophecy you told me about said you’d die! You’re no good to me dead.” He turned to her, orange eyes reverting to blue. “So, I’ve made a decision too. I’m going with you so I can keep you safe. ”

“If you come with me, you risk fulfilling the Mystics prediction...you are the wings he spoke of, Adam, I am certain. If I go alone there is less chance we will die...”