Echoes in Time

Chapter 10 Echoes, Ripples in Time

“Sweetness is a kiss of morning dew upon my lips as we embrace the dawn in hands entwined, from the moment your body caressed mine, do I seek your eyes in time unbound by love.”

Jensen whispered sweet words into Omaki’s ears as the handsome Lord gently stroked his head, removing a stray hair from his closed eyes. Omaki had finally given into quiet slumber as the brokenhearted Master of the Taming Tower surrendered his body to sleep after a night filled with emotions he didn’t know he could fathom.

Enyu’s betrayal had sent him spiraling into the arms of a man he would have never met under normal circumstances if Omaki had such a thing as a normal circumstance as they were as different as night and day. Yet there lay Argent, holding Omaki in his arms, the younger Lord's world had been set on it's head, as he was used to being in control, his every move was calculated and accounted for, very much like his occupation in the historical archives that like an impassioned lover, would never leave, grow tired of him, or betray him, much like the one who broke Omaki's heart.

"What have you done to me?" Those few words spoken by Omaki were the first of many the inebriated Lord would speak with lust in his beautiful blue eyes that begged for his lips to quench the fire that burned in his loins. Argent's body shuddered as his body remembered each stroke and each thrust Omaki's body made against his, rocking his body into oblivion sending his heart a flutter once more.

Where would this go, and where would it end? Argent was not experienced in the art of love, though well versed in it's written forms, for love had many faces. He could quote sweet poetry such as before, written by men long dead and forgotten. He actually pondered on this thought, as the words which came to mind were excerpts of poetry written by none other than Lord Raimen Mink, Iason's father; penned when he first fell in love with the young Prince Kai Oskuro. To see his son before him in Iason, made his mind race as he wondered what he would say to the man who's poetry, he knew by heart.

Though a young man, Lord Raimen had fallen in love with Lord Kai at first site, and history recorded much of Lord Raimen's poetry, as they were written and recorded in ancient scrolls long before Jupiter was a thought in the mind of a yet to be born Iason. Now he was uttering them to the man whom he was certain had stolen his heart. But would Omaki recall the passion as just a one night stand? Or was he speaking the truth in the passion that overflowed from their coupling.

"I welcome the sunrise as it eclipses the warmth of your body beneath mine, oh heavenly twins, sentinels that watched over us as we gave in to passion once more have now long fallen asleep as I take your lips once more..."

"Hmm you have such sweet pillow talk my love." A groggy Omaki whispered as Argent startled to find Omaki waking. "Have you not slept at all Argent? I remember hearing such wondrous words come from your lips in a hail of ecstasy, I thought I had dreamed you up."

Argent smiled tenderly as Omaki stretched and wrapped his arms around his waist moaning softly."Such beauty expressed in words never felt so heavenly, and tasted so divine." Omaki softly kissed Argent's abdomen, making the ticklish Blondie contract his muscles and laugh softly.

"I'm sorry if I woke you...but you were so beautiful in my eyes, that I too thought I was dreaming I had loved an angel, and yet here you are." Argent could not help but feel his heart ache for Omaki who now glanced up through golden locks that tickled his cheek holding the wonderful scent of Argent's hair. "Am I to awaken from this dream to find you disappeared with the dew of the meadows?" Argent's words were softly whispered.

"Wow, you really know how to lay it on thick don't you?" I don't know whether to fall back to peaceful slumber with your magnificent poetry, or take you once again." Omaki moved up placing his arms on the bed holding himself up while he nuzzled Argent's neck and breathed in the man's cologne.

"Mm, what is that wonderful scent you wear? Other than sex! It makes shivers run down my spine, and I can't help but want to ravish you most eagerly, in fact, perhaps I will, since I have now awaken to find you are indeed not a dream, but the same vision that took my heart when I fell in deep despair...did you think I was too drunk to remember?"

Argent kept silent as Omaki moved closer to his lips and as they softly touched, Argent could not help himself and reached out. He held his lover's face in his hands and kissed Omaki's lips, gently prodding his tongue into his mouth and swirled it softly as Omaki now pressed his body against his own; the young Lord opened his body up to Omaki's and their cock’s came to life once more between their bodies.

Omaki broke away and nibbled on Argent's nipples sending waves of chills down his spine."Hm, you taste of mint and honey, how delicious, perhaps I am dreaming."

Argent's body seemed to melt once more as Omaki took control and rolled onto his back pulling Argent onto his body, gently caressing his back, and suggestively pulled his perfectly round ass apart, stroking the tiny spiral that begged to be fucked. Argent's wonderfully scented hair made Omaki's mind race as it fell over his body and covered the two lovers like a golden veil separating them from the world.

"Ohhh, yes, well, your attendant Ru? Well, he came to see if you needed anything...and he offered tea, so...."

"Hush love, I want to taste you once more." Omaki once again kissed Argent hungrily as the now blushing Blondie closed his eyes and gave into the kiss. As Omaki continued to caress Argent's back he reached around to each leg and pulled them towards him. Argent now straddled Omaki, his long legs bent back and as Omaki raised his hips, he began to grind against Omaki's cock sending the extremely aroused Blondie into a frenzy which now took over his body.

The two lovers began to breath hard, as Omaki now devoured Argent's mouth and moaned when he felt Argent's cock harden against his own.

"Your body craves mine, my love," Omaki grabbed hold of Argent's ass and pulled it tightly against his hips. "I know the fire you feel, for I feel it too. And yes, you heard right, you are my love- something I don't give easily, despite what you may hear, for it is true, that I have had many lovers, but only share my heart with one man."

Argent paused for a moment and stared into Omaki's eyes, he knew much about what the eyes spoke, even though no sound came from them. His gifts in the world that is Amoi's past included staring at hundreds of eyes found in the numerous archives, sculptures and paintings from the ancient civilization that lived before the current era, back to the days when such Lords as Lord Oskuro, and Lord Mink, lived romantic lives...lives lived by the beat of one's heart, and the pulse of one's heated passion.

Yes Omaki was wearing such eyes at this very moment....and to Jensen, they spoke volumes.

"Dare I love what I see in your eyes my Lord?" Jensen breathed hard as he continued to grind his body against Omaki's. "I feel the passion you harness like the thunder and lightning announcing the arrival of the storm..and yet you descend upon me like gentle drops of rain..." Jensen held Omaki's gaze which once again, expressed much affection.

"Well, the bolts of lightning you speak of are anxious to find it's target my eloquent young poet..and I won't be able to harness what this body wants to unleash much longer as I truly wish to fuck you senseless."

Omaki raised Jensen with his hands as he positioned the equally excited Argent onto his cock and slowly brought him down, truly enjoying the expressions on his face as he adjusted to Omaki's rather well endowed and throbbing member. Omaki began to raise his hips slowly, pressing himself as deep inside Argent that was allowed, as the impaled Blondie moaned, and bit his lip, enjoying the sensation of being filled.

"Truly, a vision, so beautifully gripping me both inside and out." Omaki breathed through half-closed eyes, as he continued to raise and lower Argent on his cock. Argent, still mesmerized with the sight of Omaki's lust-filled eyes continued to moan softly; his cock was erect and throbbing before Omaki, making the enraptured Blondie grunt in his excitement.

"Oh my, I don't know if I can continue to hold back this desire Argent, you seem to undo me, and I feel like an mad man wanting to hold back the storm bearing down on you, sweet, sweet Argent."

Argent, could barely hold his own growing lust, as Omaki continued to thrust against the sweet spot within his sanctum, sending waves of pleasure through his entire body, exiting in the form of breathless gasps and moans that vibrated sweetly in Omaki's ears.

Omaki suddenly sat up wrapping his arms around Argent in a tight embrace. His expression changed to one of serious determination, as he took his lips once more, moaning deeply into his. Argent wrapped his arms around Omaki's neck returning the kiss with equal vigor as he continued to rise and fall against Omaki's powerful thrusts. Omaki now nibbled on his nipples, forcing Argent to arch his back and cry out with excitement. He entwined his legs beneath Omaki's knees and began to thrust against him, sending the enamored Blondie into the blissful state of excitement.

"OH! Argent! That is perfect....so tight....by the Gods! I'm going to..." With that Omaki reached between the two, and began to stroke Argent's cock relentlessly, sending the younger man to the edge of eruption. They began to cry out with every thrust, and each stroke that moments later, both ejaculated in a cry of passion that no doubt must have echoed throughout the household.

Argent collapse onto Omaki's embrace, his body trembled with the remnant spasms of pleasure that still gripped Omaki's cock as the other would not let him go, holding him in place as he continued to thrust softly, also enjoying the waves of pleasure beheld in the contractions that continued to grip his cock deep inside Argent. His mind was a flurry of sweet thoughts as the image of Argent's complete rapture was forever burned into his mind. Their bodies were drenched with sweat, Omaki finally loosened his hold around Argent's body, then heard him whisper.

"The Lords Dance"

Omaki gave him a puzzled look as he pulled Argent off his cock, and lay back onto the bed pulling the exhausted Lord into his embrace once again. "What is that love?"

"The name of the cologne, the scent I wear. It's called 'The Lord's Dance.' I had it reproduced from the archives index. It was a scent worn by the young Clansmen on their introduction night. A scent created to shed off their innocence and announce their maturity into the Clans. I ran across it one day, as I was learning about Lord Mink and Prince Oskuro. They were deprived of it due to their particular situation at the time, and I was curious as to what this scent was. It was actually created by the Royal Queens, who wanted their offspring to be accepted as men and yet, keep them as a child forever in their eyes."

Argent smiled at Omaki as the information gripped him, and a smile now appeared on his face. That same impish, mischievous face that spewed one whopper after another the night before, and sealed his fate to become a party to Omaki's great bash.

"You my love, have just given me the most wondrous idea as the theme for my big bash. I was just going to title it 'Welcome Home Old Fogies' and just get blind drunk on spiked punch, but now I have to just tweak it a bit, and give it the regalness, and importance of this wonderful gathering by the motley crew of renegade Blondie's to ever cause Jupiter to pop a circuit in her matrix!

I want to know everything YOU know about this 'Lords Dance' and not just about the scent, which tempts me to tie you up forever and have my way with you, but to give Lord Mink and Prince Oskuro and their father's a homecoming they surely will love!!"

Omaki's expressions changed from one of giddiness, to near madness as he lit up and nearly tossed the bewildered Argent off the side of the bed. Omaki leaped off the bed and began to pace as the ideas continued to leak out of his head, and almost certainly looked comical in Lord Jensen's eyes, as the excited Omaki was pacing nude, carelessly going from one expression to another.

"Do you have any idea how much I simply adore you Argent?! You have just become the authority on the Ancients, and I for one happen to be close personal friends with them, and cannot wait to see the look in Iason's face when he sees what I have planned!"

Omaki continued to pace only stopping to look at Argent and ponder the circumstances of their encounter. If he had not known better, he would have thought some all knowing powers that be, were orchestrating the whole bash, as he was indeed at this wit's end when Lord Jensen landed on his doorstep. But he also knew the evening's encounter was not planned, after all, what type of all knowing god-like entity would manipulate such an encounter, given the young Lord's inexperience in the art of lovemaking? Still...

Omaki now stopped once again, and turned around with a very serious look on his face. He walked towards Argent and knelt down before the now curiously perplexed Blondie.

"Argent, you say you only discovered your Pet's activities last night, is this not so?" Omaki blinked softly as Argent looked him straight in the eye and responded.

"Yes, it is as I spoke, I caught him pleasuring himself, all the while the holopic of Lord Iason was before him. It was really a shock to me, as Artemis has never misbehaved with such a brazen disregard for Lord Mink, as we all know his importance, especially now." But he would not speak up even under threat to drag him here, which coincidentally, was on my way home, since I practically live at the Historical Society's Central Archives across from Vendal Park. I was heading to my Loft, where I stay mostly when I've stayed too long at work, and I figure he was bored waiting for me, and decided to entertain himself."

"Well, we're just going to have to find the extent of this distribution by Enyu and his network of Pets, no doubt they were threatened by him if your Artemis was prepared to suffer the penalty for divulging where he obtained the holopic, but I will leave that part up to Lord Steele, as he is best suited for such a hunt, whereas, I'd be tempted to do all sorts of things to these insolent Pets, and not only that, the possible fallout by their Master's learning of this holopic would be a nightmare. Speaking of temptation, nothing will happen if we just lounge around all day in blissful lovemaking, as much as I'd like to do just that, perhaps our exhausted Pets, will be more forthcoming with the proper persuasion."

Omaki and Argent continued their new found attraction for one another in the bath hall that once again echoed with their excitement, much to the embarrassment of Ru who was setting the table in anticipation of serving the Master and his guests, but the same could not be said of Enyu who ate his meal in silence with Artemis, who looked just as anxious and exhausted as he did. Neither spoke a word, and that was not because they didn't want to, it was more due to the fact that Lord Steele was pacing the dining hall watching them like a hawk.

The tall dark Lord, had slept quite soundly, considering the amount of alcohol he had imbibed. And although he had decided to find Enyu as he had first thought of doing, he being unfamiliar with the suite, was thoroughly lost down the many halls and guest suites. But as luck would have it, he was intercepted by Ru who ushered him to his room after preparing it for him. Enyu was down the hall he guessed as he could hear his soft cries and wanted to go and comfort him. Sure he wanted to do more, however, now was not the time for that.

In fact he would have to be just as hard on Artemis if he didn't speak up and reveal all the Pets who obtained a holopic, so he pondered how he would do this, which explained his pacing back and forth. He knew since Artemis was here with his Master, permission would not be difficult to obtain in order to question him. He hoped that with the two Pet's before him, he would have a good chance of getting to the bottom of it within the time he'd been given. After all, he had decided to take Omaki up on his offer, and would take Enyu with him. That is if Enyu cooperated.

Omaki and Argent now entered the main hall and as soon as they were seen, both Enyu and Artemis quickly rose and stood by the far wall as Lord Steele had directed them first thing that morning. Omaki caught site of Enyu who was dressed in a simple tunic, and no body jewelry whatsoever. This surprised Omaki who always insisted he be dressed in extremely sensual attire, mostly black leather and body jewelry that outwardly spoke of his of high station. This saddened Omaki for a moment, until Lord Steele caught his eye also. Korin gave him an acknowledging nod as both Omaki and Argent walked towards the dining hall.

Omaki quickly changed his expression to one of indifference, and continued on to the dining hall and sat with his back towards the main hall. Argent sat next to him at his insistence and Lord Steele joined them a few moments later. He had separated both Enyu and Artemis sitting them across from each other on opposite sides of the main hall both were placed in pet chains and instructed to remain where directed, until he returned. Korin now sat across from Argent when Ru came with fresh coffee to the delight of the two sleep deprived and truly hungover Lords. Argent, on the other was served tea once more. Omaki winked at him when he picked up on the subtle mint and honey aroma, making Argent blush slightly.

"So Lord Steele, I hope you were able to get a few hours of sleep, considering the evening's rather intense drama? I hope your accommodations were satisfactory?" Omaki took a sip of his coffee and closed his eyes enjoying the wonderful aroma, knowing Ru must have used fresh coffee beans and the unique blend of hazel nut and other wonderful ingredients, which always pleased him. He glanced at his hand that was injured by the glass fragments, recalling how Riki healed him instantaneously as he watched in awe.

Once again, he wondered why Iason and Riki really came at such a late hour. Had Riki really picked up on his emotions from such a far distance? He knew he and Iason were no longer as normal Amoian, which both excited him, and worried him. What if they knew about the holopic? Would Riki harm Enyu? These thoughts once again brought Argent's visit to the surface.

"Well gentlemen, we have a serious issue to discuss, and we need to find a quick solution before the night of the party. Any ideas? Lord Steele?"

Korin was just enjoying a slice of bacon when Omaki spoke, he wanted to really just finish his meal and crawl back under the covers, in fact his head was pounding so hard, he felt he would might fore go the meal, and take a hair of the dog as it were and fight his hangover with more liquor. But seeing that he was in mixed company and Omaki's mood was beginning to head south, he put on his best poker face and began.

"Well, with Lord Jensen's permission, I'd like to interrogate both Pet's once more, and see how much information I can gather and go from there. I will follow the leads, however, it would be preferable if I could question all the Pets that were given a holopic. To do that, you my friend may have to hold a gathering of sorts, in order to get them under one roof, and with their Master's unaware of our plans."

Argent thought on this a bit, and then spoke. "The party can be transformed into a gala event once more." As he spoke, he looked at Omaki who nearly choked on his meal, giving Argent a bewildered look. "Now hear me out Omaki, before you say anything. We can turn this into a gala event as you had planned, and the Pets could be used in the festivities as we transform the night into a page from the past. There was no such class for a Pet in the Ancient world, as households only had attendants, servants, and nurseries for their young. We can use the excuse that we are in need of the Pets in the festivities. If Lord Steele can ascertain the number of Pets in this network who received the holopic, we can use that as a reason to get them under one roof. What do you think?"

Lord Steele roared in his seat as he helped Omaki by patting him on the back. "That is an excellent idea - ah- Lord..Jensen is it? Yes quite splendid if I don't say so myself! We can hold several 'rehearsals' until we ferret out the numbers. Lord Jensen here can actually teach them something in the process, so we have something to show the night of the party."

Omaki was about to speak when a message was sent to the communication center in the main hall. Ru retrieved the message and was shocked as he handed the notice to Omaki. Omaki read the message, it was a summons by Jupiter. He looked at both Argent and Korin. "I've been summoned by Jupiter, it says here, that Lord Jensen is to accompany me to her chambers immediately."

Argent dropped his toast he was about to take a bite of it, when he heard his name mentioned. How could Jupiter possibly know he was there? He looked at Omaki and Korin, not knowing what to do.

"Well, this is a surprise. What could Jupiter want with me?" The three men looked at each other when it dawn on Omaki the frightening possibility that Jupiter may have discovered the holopic. Could one have surfaced, and then be traced to him? Panic covered the faces of all three and Omaki jumped out of his seat, knocking his chair to the ground. The household became quiet, and only the quiet ticking of the clock on the mantel could be heard chime as the hour hand struck the noon hour.

Argent spoke up as he also became alarmed. "H-how could Jupiter possibly know where I am, or that I would be here at this particular time?" Argent looked over at the two pets, as Omaki began to walk over to Enyu with the same menacing look he saw the might before. Omaki's approach made Enyu begin to tremble, not knowing what had transpired, but nevertheless assumed the position and bowed before Omaki.

"Pet! What is the meaning of this?! I have been summoned to appear before Jupiter, as well as Lord Jensen!"

The mention of Lord Jensen, made Artemis turn to his Master, and he now became frightened as well. Was his master in trouble because of him? The young man had never fallen out of favor with his Master, as he led a relatively quiet life, in fact quiet boring, which was the reason he had accepted the holopic, as Lord Mink's fame was enough to make any Pet envious of Riki, in fact he was resented for his status, and now that their past was revealed, Iason was idolized by the Pet community. When the holopic was mentioned, he pushed his way forward, and begged for one from Enyu. But now he feared for his Master, for he loved him sincerely. The previous night's sexual torture was indeed that, but moreover, he was able to feel his Master's body on his, secretly relishing his every touch, and agonizing over the frustration of his inability to enjoy him with his body restricted by Lord Ghan's restraints...and threats.

Omaki truly brought out the incredible sexuality of his rather unassuming Master, and released an incredible lover in him. It was torture indeed to watch him being loved by Omaki, who knew he was a novice, and educated him in the art of lovemaking. Artemis wondered if his fate was sealed along with Enyu's, would he be sold into sexual slavery? Would he be whipped publicly? He had no special label as Enyu held, being raised in a Pet Academy since birth. Now he feared the worst as Lord Jensen gave him a pointed look, mixed with sadness.

*~*~*~*

The air was crisp as the seasons were about to change, and all about Amoi, the buzz among the Elite and commoner alike was filling the night air with excitement and expectation, as the Ancients were coming to the ball. Omaki's plans for a quiet intimate bash was blown as word spread like wildfire, and there was no possible way to keep it a secret, so he formulated an elaborate gala, with the help of Lord Argent Jensen, so that his part of evening would not only make him a gracious host, but the most sought after Blondie, as his reputation as the owner of the Taming Tower would pale once his connection with the Ancients would be revealed. There were dignitaries from all over the sector, and some unexpected guests were expected. Omaki and Argent labored all week preparing the large banquet hall and arranging an orchestra along with a few other trendy groups, the best food was prepared, along with the tightest security ever seen. Omaki and Argent were exhausted with it all, and with only a few hours before the guests would begin to arrive, the two lovers stole a few private moments to find release in the best way they could. However not all was going his way...

Six days earlier...

There was much involved with this sort of event, as there has never been such an ostentatious gala that would unite both classes of Elites and Commoner. This event drew even the attention of Jupiter who had requested his presence, along with Argent to discuss the gala. Omaki had never been to the Ios Tower, much less the inner chambers, in the presence of Jupiter, his only visits were to Iason's office where he loved to drop in unannounced and shoot the breeze with him. However, Argent on the other hand, was not so nervous, having recently gotten to know the sentient being quite intimately after word was given that his role in the Renaissance of Amoi would require his skills as a keeper of the archives.

When both men entered the chamber, Omaki was impressed with the very life-like image Jupiter used in their meeting. Jupiter had recently preferred the image of Lady Erin, Riki's mother in both flesh tone and attire. Omaki stared speechless, as Argent bowed and looked towards Omaki and nodded, prompting him to bow also.

Omaki raised his head and spoke, "Lady Jupiter, thank you for your summons, we are honored that you would inquire of our little party." Omaki's beautiful smile made Jupiter step forward and raise her hand, gently touching Omaki's cheek. "You my dear Lord Ghan, are a jewel, and I wondered when you would make the scene, along with our Lords return to Amoi. So to hear of your Gala event, brought a smile to my face."

Omaki's smile disappeared into an expression of curiosity as he felt Jupiter's touch for the first time. The warmth of her holographic image made chills run down his spine, Jupiter was staring right through him, and he didn't know what to do, so he once again smiled back. There was a familiarity that came with the touch, but Omaki could not quite place it. Jupiter was not known to make many personal appearances, so there was much speculation of her personality, as Iason was really the only one he knew of that kept counsel with her in his position as Head of the Syndicate. However, Jupiter's comment to his "making the scene" was not forgotten in Omaki, but now was not the time to inquire about such things.

Argent watched as the exchange transpired before his eyes. He knew much more than he revealed to Omaki in those intimate hours at the Taming Tower, but was sworn to silence, as Jupiter wanted all things to unfold as naturally as if time was being reconciled with the inhabitants of Amoi. She had spent over 10,000 years formulating this particular era, when her children would return, and now was not the time for any mistakes.

Argent's particular gifts in historical data was by design, as Jupiter brought this about in anticipation of Iason's and Riki's reanimation. Once word had come to her by the Firm that Iason's remains had been located on Aristia, and Riki's but a few years later, on Alpha Zen, she quickly moved with her plans to bring about those who would be instrumental in their return. She knew only the perfection of her programming, having been created by Iason, she knew the many centuries of evolution of her inner matrix would finally be complete in the awakening of her creator.

"All things with a purpose, and all things would fall in place" she would muse over the centuries, waiting patiently as generation after generation of the Firm searched the known galaxy for Iason and Riki. In bringing back to life the Ancients, her Flame and his Tempest, Jupiter had anxiously awaited the return of her many long lost inhabitant's of the Ancient world that once was.

"Yes, Lord Ghan, I heard of your gala and wanted to lend any assistance towards this event. I understand you have invited all classes, is that correct? I was informed by Lord Jensen, that you inquired as to the social festivities of the time of the Intellects and Warrior Clans, however, you did not inquire about the Elder Clan, and wanted to ask why?"

Omaki was silent for a moment, he never really considered it, seeing how the Elders had caused much destruction and were the direct cause of all of Amoi's turmoil. The only Elder's he knew about were the Elder Class on Aristia who assisted Iason and Riki.

"Lady Erin..oh- please forgive me- Jupiter, your appearance is so enchanting, I was reminded of Lady Erin, Prince Riki's mother, as I've recently peered into the archives you released to us. I find your appearance enlightening, as if a part of the past was growing within me." Omaki caught his own words, and suddenly became silent.

"Not at all Omaki. There is a connection between all my children, and myself. Lady Erin will soon be amongst us, and you truly will be in the presence of an enchanting Queen. Lord Iason and Prince Riki will be the cornerstone of this renaissance, and YOU my jewel, will celebrate them in full royal fashion."

Jupiter once again reached out and this time place her hand on Omaki's shoulder and whispered. "Indeed my jewel." Omaki was beside himself, and his knees trembled and his mind swam and felt as if he would faint. He knew there must be something to this term of endearment coming from Jupiter, but he could only close his eyes and take in the warmth of her holo-energy that felt as if he were embraced by a warm blanket.

Argent's heart was filled to the brim with pride, as his new found lover, was being caressed by Jupiter, and felt as if he sat on the biggest secret known to Amoi. A secret he knew would only match that of the Ancient's reanimation, and the restoring of two heirs and Clansmen. Argent trembled with all he was privy to, and wanted to shout from the mountaintops all he knew.

But no, this would wait, he would let it unfold as Jupiter spoke, as she insisted, for he knew the security of such a secret would be necessary, if all was to be restored as Jupiter spoke. Argent was only an assistant to Lord Hansel, the Director of Amoi's Historical Society, yet his role in this Renaissance was set before he was even birthed, and now he knew his long and lonely existence would end, and that Omaki was always destined to be his.

Argent's mind was in some far off future, as Omaki was being briefed by Jupiter as to all she would provide in aid for the gala that would become Amoi's greatest event in celebration of Iason and Riki. But Jupiter had more in store for Omaki, her "jewel" was indeed as beautiful as his heart, Omaki's playfulness was one thing, Jupiter could never find the will to entirely erase from his character, although she did not always approve of is activities or sexual appetite. But she found that in the many Blondie's she brought back from extinction, that certain characteristics would survive the birthing on each one, and not all could be completely removed just lay dormant for some future event she would not be able to undo. Omaki is as she remembered him, as she remembered all her children.

"Omaki, I have high hopes for this gala event, and I want your word, that no questionable activities, mar this otherwise celebrated event. Is that clear young Lord Ghan?" I am certain you will have ulterior plans, and I summoned you for precisely that reason, as the whole of Amoi, will be attending, and until the very last guest has departed you will be a gracious and noble Lord, worthy of your title. Are we both clear on this? Until the very last guest."

Jupiter gave Omaki a pointed look, which confused Omaki as he had just been showered with affection, and praise, and even called her "jewel" and now this? Did she somehow know he was planning all sorts of devious activities, and what- now he would have to cross out the banner "Welcome Home Old Farts!" from his list? What about all that "special tea" he had on stand-by? A dark cloud began to grow over our playful imp, as if "Mother" was telling him to behave.

Jupiter picked up on his souring mood, and once again spoke. "Lord Ghan, Omaki- you have the opportunity to restore the once cherished traditions of your Clans, and with Lord Jensen, you two will set the tone, in the return of a more regal society. I'm certain Lord Jensen will be 'educating' you on all the proper protocols, and festivities, and I believe, you will discover something about yourself, even you will find irresistible."

Jupiter now addressed Lord Jensen who was brought out of his daydream as Jupiter now stood before him and in a sober voice began, "Lord Jensen, by now I assume you have come to terms with your role, and I am confident Lord Hansel was an able teacher? The festivities of the Lord's Dance will be up to you. I assume, you have made preparations for this event?"

"Yes, Lady Jupiter, all preparations are being made, and I believe the banquet hall has been arranged and prepared. Per your instruction, the festivities all await your word. Omaki turned to Argent, as he listened to their conversation. Argent knew he was going to be involved? How was this possible? How? They had never met before he walked into his suite. Omaki's mind was now confused as to Argent.

As if reading his thoughts, Jupiter turned and spoke. "Do not see into this too deep Omaki, I involved Lord Jensen upon hearing Lord Iason and Prince Oskuro were safe and on Holiday on Aristia. I needed a specialist on Ancient Amoi, and chose Lord Argent for his education among other things, so you need not fret. He's been in communication with the Elder Class of Aristia, as our Liaison. There is much we did not know, and they being the decedents of that Clan worked out perfectly. Having them involved with the two Heirs, and proving their loyalty, they are to be welcomed back to Amoi, as the third Clan. So you see, this little party is now quite important.

By the way, how you two met, has not been explained to me, however, your friendship with Lord Iason and Lord Oskuro make you the right person, considering this party was your idea. The timing was perfect, and that you two would be together only proved fortuitous in my plans."

Omaki breathed an internal sigh of relief, fearing Jupiter had learned of the holopic, and Argent was just a plant. But if that were true, Jupiter would have surely taken care of that problem herself, and Enyu would have been removed and disposed of already. So Argent could not have been sent as a spy. That Jupiter did not know how they met was also telling, so perhaps his being introduced to Argent that night was as he said. But now his bash was not going to happen, so he began to sulk.

"Very well, you two will finish your plans, and I'll want an update as to anything else you might need. I will spare no expense for this, and I want you two to report any issues as soon as they happen, is that clear?"

Omaki glanced over to Argent, who nervously smiled, and bowed. Omaki also bowed, as he nodded. "Yes, Lady Jupiter, as you wish." Omaki smiled and turned to walk out. As he and Argent headed out of the Ios Tower, Omaki kept silent, wondering if he was to trust Argent or not, he did not reveal anything, and there was no indication that Jupiter knew about Enyu, but with the Gala four days away, he would have to solve this issue immediately.

After several minutes of driving in silence, Omaki spoke. "We shall have to bring all the Pet's to the Taming Tower fast and have Lord Steele commence his interrogations." Omaki was a bit cold in his manner of speaking and Argent was not one to hide behind anything, being honest to a fault.

"Omaki I never met you before last night...you have to believe this. I am not smart that way, I am highly intelligent in many things, but not the art of deception, or...love." Argent's voice trailed off as if expecting Omaki to be angry. "I spoke the truth, with regards our meeting, and my Pet's holopic, and I assure you, Jupiter does not know, and will never find out if I can help it." Argent tried to smile as Omaki kept driving in silence.

Suddenly Omaki placed the hovercraft on autopilot and reached over across to Argent, pulling him rather violently towards him and taking his mouth. Argent was surprised and yet relieved that Omaki was not angry at him. He gave into the kiss and closed his eyes as Omaki swirled his tongue around his and drank from Argent with a passion that made the young Blondie moan softly in his mouth. Omaki broke away and spoke.

"Yes, I know. I must confess, I thought for a moment you might have fooled me, but I know you are truthful with regards the holopic..."

Argent furrowed his brow "Do you think I would so such a thing?" Argent was almost tearful as he looked into Omaki's eyes. Omaki caressed his cheek and pulled him once again taking his lips.

"No my love, whatever else you've got going with Jupiter, is none of my business, I don’t' impose my curiosity, when it comes to her, and believe me, I'd like to keep it that way. My concern now is this little bash has become a full-blown fucking Gala event, and not just a gala...but the gala event the likes never before seen in our era! What am I going to do? I was losing my mind with just the mess I had going, now this? I think I'm going to go camping this week and just forget the whole thing, I hear the old ruins near Dana Burn can be a nice getaway when you don't want to be found, although the weather is turning cold..."

"NO! you can't do that! I will help you, I have most the preparations done anyway, the fact that we met, and well...you know, was something completely unexpected, though I loved it very much, and I still can't believe I'm involved with you.."

"And what is wrong with that exactly? Hm? Am I beneath your standards?" Omaki feigned offense at Argent's words, knowing he was just innocently talking out-loud.

Argent became flustered, unable to form any words, which made Omaki laugh out loud and kiss him more passionately. "You my love are as sweet as honey, and I do intend to ravish you most sweetly when we get back to my suite, for we definitely have big plans to make."

*That same afternoon...

Riki watched as his mother's chamber was being tended to by Jupiter's specialists, Lord Heiku was now a very active participant and overlooked the process having successfully aided both Lord Kai and Raimen's reanimation. No one knew what to expect in what reanimating a female Warrior would bring, as it was never done before.

Riki did not remember his Mother in his youth growing up in the slums of Midas, and he only had a handful of memories. But that did not matter now, he had new found memories of a loving and very attentive mother in Lady Erin. She was an impressive woman who didn't take no for an answer, always standing up for what was right.

He was slowly beginning to recall many moments with her when he was young, so many centuries ago, as if it was only yesterday. But the cold reality of her death would once again be a challenge, as it was with his father. At least her death was nothing compared to his father's. Lord Kai knew several hundred years of war and death. Would his father be able to reconcile her death with her reanimation?

Certainly there would be confusion as the queens are brought back, as there were none like them on Amoi of the present. Riki wondered what changes they would bring. Lady Erin would be in her reanimation chamber for yet another week, as she continued to take shape. Her beautiful features all closely guarded by Jupiter over the centuries, truly surprised Riki when he first saw her behind the protective stasis chambers. She looked as if only asleep, so flawless. Kai on the other hand wore the face of a warrior seasoned in battle; his face was marred with scars, and his body was also battle worn. Although Jupiter filtered all his flaws, the memories were still intact. Scars that would forever haunt his mind, and soul.

Lord Raimen, was truly amazing, in his silly but yet very serious ways as he was taken within Kai's mind in that fog of despair. Would his reunion with Lady Erin heal some of those scars? Or only add to their damage? Raimen was a comfort and a release for Kai, who certainly would have gone mad with the post-traumatic-affliction and guilt Kai was dealing with.

Riki closed his eyes and remembered the multitude of corpses he had to fend off his father as they made their way to the surface, and awareness. He felt the chill run down his spine, as he still held some modern day fears of the dead and ghosts. Iason had teased him at first about such things, yet this was nothing compared to the hell they both experienced within his father's mind.

Would his mother bridge the gap between the past horrors, and the promise of renewal and joy? He wondered this to himself as Lady Erin was examined by Heiku who smiled towards him from behind the reanimation chamber. Riki gave him a lopsided smile as he ran his hand through his hair. There was a great sense of pride in those who were involved with the reanimation of the Ancients, and Heiku was pure heaven, being the first to see Lady Erin take shape. Yes having his mother back will be great he thought, smiling again at Heiku.

Suddenly Riki felt the pangs of distress, and looked at his mother alarmed , but it was not coming from her, as the monitors were steady, and no one seemed alarmed. But he was certain he felt the distinct sensation of agony and distress. As he turned to follow the sounds in his head, the sensation dissipated and faded until nothing was left. He looked around and found he was now in the lower levels of the Jupiter's inner matrix, in fact very close to where the bodies of the Ancients were being housed by Jupiter. Riki looked confused when he felt suddenly felt he was being observed.

"I can feel you Lady Jupiter, why are you hiding from me?" Riki could hear the gentle hum and then the corridor lit up softly as a form took shape and appeared behind Riki. "It is not like you to hide from me Lady Ju.. who are YOU?"

Riki watched as a young Blondie hologram appeared. He was younger than Iason, and fair in appearance. He had a familiarity that made his mind itch with curiosity. He wore the traditional robes of an Intellect, but remained silent in his presence. Riki walked around him and since he felt no threat coming from the hologram, didn't transform, though he did keep his guard up.

"Do you not speak? Who are you?" Riki began to feel uneasy as he continued to stand in statuesque form. There was a flash in his mind, and he saw a face in his mind, of a young man who clung to Iason's arm, but the name eluded him. Finally Riki moved forward to attempt to pass and continue down the corridor towards where the feelings he felt were coming from.

The young Blondie faded and then reappeared before him, blocking his way, now Riki was no longer amused, and he began to transform slowly, and knew he was just a hologram, but why block his path? Had he stumbled onto something? He knew the lower levels of Jupiter's Towers were built right over the original buildings, and he could recognize some of the ancient wall murals perfectly preserved. Everything he sensed made him uneasy as more flashes of a fragmented past surfaced in his mind's eye and the feeling that he'd seen this young man before.

Both he and Iason were still dealing with resurfacing memories, some more elusive than others, and it seemed they were triggered by many things, but mostly by Jupiter and the Ios Tower. It could have been all the preserved artifacts and archives Jupiter held close to her, as if it were all one giant scrap book. Riki could feel the many emotions locked away in all he was seeing, but knew it was not coming from a hologram, no, there was something odd about this whole corridor, and this Blondie who looked vaguely familiar.

Iason was with his father attempting to convince him to leave Lord Kai to rest, as he still needed to rest after days of physical therapy. It was more the psychological trauma than the physical reanimation that kept Lord Kai at the medical facility, and Raimen would not leave his side. But he feared Kai's mind was fragile and severely traumatized and could realistically hurt himself, not to mention the lives of those around him.

Iason knew his father was terribly worried for Lord Kai, and still refused to return to the penthouse, wanting to be with Kai at all times. Raimen only left for short periods of time and then only when Iason reassured him he would be there to watch over him in his stead. As Iason was escorting his father to the waiting shuttle, the sudden ping in Iason's head froze him in mid sentence as he was instructing Odi to care after his father.

"Riki..."

"Iason? what is it son, you don't look well?" Raimen's eyes widened as Iason's eyes turned a deeper shade of blue and he immediately turned to head back into the building. Odi knew this look, and as Raimen turned to follow Iason, Odi fell in place behind the now quickening pace of Iason's long strides.

"I sense Riki's transformation, and he is upset over something he's seeing," Iason's golden hair began to softly rise and float suspended in air. Raimen however, did not transform, as he did not have the link Iason and Riki shared, but saw it firsthand when both Riki and he pulled Kai out from the fog of his mind.

"Iason, tell me what you see? Is it Lady Erin?! I am not like you or Riki, and you should not transform so, as you are drawing attention to yourself." Raimen's whispered comment was seen by Odi as a parent scolding a child, but Iason continued and as they entered the lower level's of the Ios Tower, Iason's face now began to glow softly, yet he ignored both Raimen and Odi. When the doors opened Iason began to run followed by Raimen and Odi, who now held his laser pistol in his hand.

When they turned the corner, Iason saw Riki completely transformed as a tempest whirled around him angrily, and he was not looking at all pleased. All the while the hologram continued to evade him and disappear and reappear as soon as Riki attempted to manipulate around him, but the young Blondie Guard now stopped and turned to see Iason and Raimen approaching and upon seeing Iason, immediately knelt down and spoke.

"Lord Iason, I have awaited your return, can you give the word?"

Iason and Riki both continued transformed as Riki's temper was making his hair flick angrily as the hologram now looked up at Iason with such a look of kindness, Iason's eyes widened as he gasped upon recognizing the face.

"Ian?" Iason's words echoed in Raimen who approached the hologram and now also recognized the young Blondie as none other than Ian Sinclair, the young assistant who aided Iason in creating Jupiter, and maintained her matrix. Of course Iason had no idea how Ian perished so had no clue as to why he was there. And most importantly, what word was he waiting for?

"You are Ian, Lord Sinclair's son are you not?" Raimen's face changed to one of love and admiration, for there stood Ian, a young promising apprentice of Iason, who followed him around like a puppy begging him to train him. Iason treated him like a brother, though by the looks of Iason's expression, he had not recalled the young man until that very moment.

"Yes, Lord Raimen, I am Guardian of Lady Jupiter's vault. I was brought on line approximately 30 years ago in expectation of Lord Iason's reanimation. I have protocols that require his confirmation."

Riki by now had calmed down, as he realized there was a purpose beyond what Iason and he were meant to accomplish. But the emotions he picked up on were not from a hologram, no this was real, and it lay behind that vault door. Riki had a vague recollection of young Ian, though he did feel he knew him. Once again the fog of their minds was a distant memory, playing hide and seek in his mind. But Ian was special to Iason, this he could now see in Iason's expression, although, confusion was all he was picking up from Iason's thoughts.

Iason was still reeling at the vague memories he held of Ian, who at the time was still completing Jupiter's matrix. Why was Ian a hologram, and what was he guarding? Iason turned away from Ian and placed his hand on the door, trying to recall what lay within that vault.

"Ian, what is it you require of me? I don't recall this vault, nor programming a guard to stand watch. So how can I give you a command, I cannot recall?" Iason puzzled over this, and looked to Raimen who shrugged his shoulders, as he had never heard of such a thing.

"Lord Iason, you are the creator, and protocol was established the day you left Amoi in search of Lord Oskuro. I am a security guardian program, triggered by Jupiter upon your reanimation, and I have been waiting your return. Lady Jupiter, was to be informed of your arrival to this level, and I am awaiting your command."

The corridor lit up softly once more and then Jupiter materialize in Lady Erin's form. Iason gave her a pointed look as he was confused by the development, and was not overlooking the fact that Riki was drawn to that vault.

"Lady Jupiter..." Raimen whispered, looking at Iason who did not look at all pleased.

"Is there a reason why a Sentinel has been assigned to this area? I do not recall ever placing any restrictions to the lower matrix, and I find the likeness of Lord Ian a bit unnerving." Iason watched Jupiter hover near Ian who now stood still and continued to watch Iason as if waiting for him to speak.

"Yes, Lord Iason, this is Ian of Ancient Amoi, and your loyal protégé. He was programmed in the early stages of my creation, as you were at that time touring the known universe. Ian, was special to me, as he took great pains to keep me online when destruction befell all of Amoi. Ian was one of the first casualties in those critical first days of chaos, so his program has been running continuously all these centuries, as I've kept his program shielded from all eyes. After all, he stands watch over my inner matrix, the core of my existence and the soul of my programming."

Iason took in all that Jupiter spoke, however, he could sense Riki's thoughts, and there was concern in what lie hidden in that vault. He knew Jupiter's inner matrix was to be protected, no doubt, however, he did not recall having Ian involved in this aspect of her inner workings.

"Jupiter, might I have a tour of your inner matrix, as my memory is still spotty on some things, and it would help me immensely if I can see what it is Ian guards, as he is waiting for me to issue a command, a word- as he stated, and I don't know at the moment what that might be. If I review the matrix, I may recall that word." Iason looked past Jupiter to Ian who now vanished and reappeared before the vault door.

Riki was having flashbacks of the vaults he and Iason saw on Rhea, where the remnant of the Elder Clans hid the remains of millions of Amoi's fallen citizens in specimen jars that lit up when Iason and Riki drew near. However, he felt sorrow coming from the bowels of Jupiter, and certainly there was no reaction to both his and Iason's transformation, so whatever was behind that vault door was alive.

Iason walked over to the vault door and Ian once again spoke. "You were gone Lord Mink, I held fast and kept Jupiter safe, I await the word, so the soul of Ian may rest."

This now alarmed Riki who in a flash of light in his mind's eye saw a man, tortured and weeping, a man with regret and remorse, a man who once dared play a god. Iason listened to Riki's thoughts as he heard the echoes in time travel from within the vault doors.

"Open this door Jupiter! I know what you hold in it's darkness!" Iason once again transformed and as his anger grew, Jupiter appeared before Iason and held a hand to his face and caressed his cheek.

"My Flame, you and your Tempest have returned to where it all began, can you both see what lies within this chamber, and not feel the depths of my sorrow? This inner chamber has been sealed since I came on line as a sentient being. What I discovered, I preserved, and what I preserved for you and Prince Riki, is..."

"Revenge."

As Iason spoke the one word, Ian looked at Iason and smiled. "Thank you, Lord Iason, the response to access the vault is now spoken." Ian turned and faced the vault door and used his access protocol to unseal the centuries old vault. Iason and Riki continued transformed, as centuries of Amoi's past came to life, as the lights came on. The vault entrance led down a long corridor, and Riki froze as he neared a familiar corner. It was then a right turn and another door and there would be...

The old Ios Tower, as it looked when Iason left Amoi, nothing had changed, although it was battle scarred, and many of the walls were filled with laser fire. The next right turn would lead to Jupiter's first inner chamber. Where Ian and Iason spent endless hours working on Jupiter's many processors, many nights programming her parameters, and her image.

Iason felt an uneasiness that was more Riki's emotions than his own, as memories began to flood Riki's mind, and the one particular memory was of watching Ian and Iason walk arm in arm into the inner matrix, spurned on by jealousy of all the time young Ian had monopolized Iason from him.

But as they made the right turn, Ian appeared once more.

"Lord Iason, Prince Oskuro, I was not given the opportunity to say farewell as you both left Amoi in haste, before the horror that bathed the streets of our forefather's in blood. Where you now stand Lord Mink, I died."

Iason looked around as the floor lay bare, but suddenly a holographic depiction of the events played out before the four men. Raimen gasped as he saw Elder Eric being rushed in the building led by his father, Elder Jonas who looked panicked as sirens blared all throughout the city. Then the image of Ian rushing the young Elder and stabbing him in the chest.

"This is for Lord Mink and Prince Oskuro!"

Elder Jonas screamed as Eric fell back clutching the laser knife to his chest, and falling dead to the floor. Ian stared at the fallen Eric, and spoke one word.

"Revenge."

Jupiter materialized before Iason and Riki "My Lords, in the moments that followed, Ian tried desperately to undo the program set off by Elder Eric, unfortunately the Elders throughout Amoi, would be unleashed, and the end for all mankind darkened the once beautiful world, that was Amoi. Please follow me."

Jupiter now walked before Iason and Riki who continued angry within his mind as Iason now placed a hand on his shoulder and spoke within his mind. "My love, what I see in your mind, is in my heart also, we'll face this together."

Riki kept his eyes forward, but nodded in agreement. Raimen was not so calm himself, as he knew the time line very well, and knew at that very moment, he and Kai would be facing the darkest moments of their lives. "Iason, I may not hear what you two are speaking....but don't shut me out...I was moments away from death in what occurred this day."

Iason turned to see his father, but his eyes did not change in their intensity, nor did he transform back. No there was something beyond the chamber they were being led, that would both heal and scar their hearts forever, and he did not want Riki to face this in the calmness that would betray what they were both feeling at that very moment.

Odi was completely mesmerized by all he was witnessing, for no one from the outside had ever been in the inner matrix of Jupiter's Tower, and he knew he was witnessing history once more. He felt no danger now that he was beginning to put together what Jupiter had preserved for Iason and Riki.

Ian now once again materialized before a door, and as Iason and Riki stood before it, they were overcome with the stench of rotting flesh. The lights were turned on and there before them all, was figure of a man, with red hair and covered with every sort of wound possible, clearly tortured and near death. As Iason and Riki walked towards the young man Raimen yelled from behind them.

"Betrayer! Foul soul of a decrepit and monstrous Clan!" Raimen suddenly transformed and his anger made the chamber tremble as his eyes darkened and his appearance completely changed from a loving and jubilant Intellect to a menacing and wrathful Lord.

"Jupiter! What is the meaning of this abomination?! Why has this vile and evil man been brought back from the bowels of hell to breathe the same air as we who suffered his treachery?!" Raimen was not consolable as his power now manifested and stuck Eric with a bolt of energy never seen by Iason or Riki. Eric's body lit up and glowed with the power of the surge that coursed his body and he moaned loudly.

"Lord Raimen, Iason, my Prince- This is young Elder Eric, without his powers I assure you. Look beyond this empty shell of a man and see the millions of Eric's that came before him. I gave Ian the revenge he swore in his dying breath, as I would not let his sacrifice go unanswered. The pile of old bones that fill that pit before you is centuries old, and I took great pleasure in seeing his lifeless corps die before my eyes, before Ian's and although Ian in real life, never witnessed this fissure in my programming, I adapted, and every sort of injury and infliction suffered by my children, I doled out to him. And when this one died, I reanimated another, and another until you see the pile of Eric's before you. I waited until you were both restored, waiting patiently so you would have the final revenge for your suffering; and the multitude of lives lost by the betrayer of all Amoi.

Raimen on the other hand was not consolable, and he continued to pelt Eric with blasts of energy, until Iason called out to him.

"Father! There is much to learn and I for one wish to hear it from his own lips. Calm yourself and let Jupiter explain herself." Raimen's anger began to subside and the walls stopped trembling. Eric hung his head as his skin was smoldering from Raimen's attack.

Jupiter turned and pointed to a wall and then lit the chamber that was embedded to reveal the remains of Ian Sinclair in a marble box. Iason's face became solemn, and both he and Riki approached the wall. There was an inscription on the box that read:

"I await your return Lord Iason, I pray you found your Prince. May the Flame that burns within, find the Tempest of your heart, my Lord. Ian."

Iason transformed back to normal as tears welled up in his eyes, "Ian, my friend, companion, and brother."

Riki felt the pangs of sorrow, but these came from Iason. Riki came up behind him an placed a hand on his back. He released a gentle burst of energy from his heart and it overcame Iason and he wept. Riki could feel his lover grieving for Ian. They had both lost so much in the wake of Eric's madness, and Iason, who rarely showed such emotion now turned towards the pit and the slumped figure in chains.

Raimen was standing before the young man who looked up and recognized Raimen. With labored breaths he spoke. "Have you come to take your revenge Lord Mink? Am I not a pitiful shell of a man?!" Eric winced as he was held in chains suspended from two pillars of granite. They were ancient, and Raimen could tell they were used often no doubt by Jupiter's reanimations of Eric.

The stench from the open pit carved deep into the soil was horrific in itself. Jupiter must have a way of filtering the air he theorized, if not how else could such a mass grave lie undetected all these centuries?. He kicked a rock over the edge yet heard no sound and imagined it was a drop to a depth without end, and probably the last thing Eric saw right before he landed at the bottom.

"I imagine you think this is hell Eric, though I can tell you for a certainty, it is not. Hell is what you left in your wake, and we all paid the price for allowing your behavior go unpunished in your youth. I wager your father is waiting for you in hell." Raimen hissed under his breath.

"I have been brought back time and again, never forgetting each deathblow, each laser knife plunged into my flesh, for that computerized bitch! Jupiter kept my mind, and all of my memories intact, she found no remorse in each death I experienced and now after centuries of torture, and starvation, wounds that cut every limb, and blows tenfold by a hologram in the image of Ian to torture me in endless ways, by Jupiter's programming...am I never to see death infinite and eternal? Do I not deserve this one kindness? Kill me! You now have revenge set at your very feet."

Raimen's hair floated above his head, and whipped angrily as the chained Eric braced for what he knew would be death once more, but he welcomed it now, having seen Iason, Riki, and Raimen. For centuries, he was showed holograms of the destruction of Amoi, Jupiter would show the images of all the dead in one long loop. Yet only ever saw the faces of Ian, and Jupiter during his torture sessions, death would end it all, but he never knew if it would be for the last time.

"I would tear you limb from limb Elder Eric, if I knew it would avenge the cries of all the souls I witnessed in the mind of Lord Kai, who suffers in the wake of your betrayal. But revenge is not mine to execute, no, heh, heh. The ones who will feel redemption and peace will be the two you betrayed, and set in motion their separation and lonely deaths. Iason and Riki are the ones to give you what you deserve. I'll just twist the knife and watch you suffer and beg!"

Odi, overcome by the stench of rotting corpses remained near the door, as he watched Riki console Iason over Ian's remains. He knew that with Jupiter's abilities, she could have reanimated Ian, and wondered why she had not. Everything he saw was as if set up for a ritual, and wondered if perhaps it was the earliest depiction of public whippings as Eric stood between the two pillars, his body a canvas that would make even Raul turn away, but if he knew this Eric person, there is no doubt he would have done the same.

What shocked Odi most was Lord Raimen's transformation. He wondered if he would ever see him as Iason and Riki, but the power he held was unlike Iason's, though both did unleash an electric type surge, Lord Raimen had a flair about him, as if this was a game. No doubt he had more experience than Iason, definitely more control, but he was told Intellects only used their powers in self-defense. Revenge he theorized was rarely called for in that era, as the three Clans were at peace. He also heard from Ayuda, that Lord Kai was the most powerful one, as he nearly nuked the city in his awakening, had it not been for the help of these three Ancients.

But Odi doubted that, as he knew as well as the whole team that went to Rhea, that Iason and Riki were indeed the most powerful. He was feeling rather small and obscure in their presence, for they truly did look like living gods, the way they held themselves. Odi tried to imagine a whole planet, all of Amoi, as these men before him.

Jupiter stood silent as she watched Lord Raimen back away from Eric, and now Riki and Iason approached him. Riki was becoming more agitated, due to Iason's pain, but when he stood before Eric he only stared. The man before him was indeed Eric, the man who deceived them both that one night, and separated the lovers forever. Riki closed his eyes as he recalled the final moments before he died on Alpha Zen, the loneliness and regret for ever leaving Iason. Iason who died under a collapsed catacomb beneath Aristia’s Capitol, was looking for the presumed remains of his lover, Riki.

Iason and Riki seemed lost in their thoughts, but in fact they were both recalling that night, and as Iason walked up he grabbed Eric by the hair and yanked his head back. He looked into his eyes, yes, it was really Eric, and he was near death by the looks of his wounds. A curious question was "who" was torturing him, Jupiter? or a hologram of Ian?

"Come to watch the freak show? Heh, it is truly pitiful that a computer would find pleasure in my infinite deaths, I've gone mad over the centuries, really wondering if I would remember the last death in the hands of a demented computer, I should have destroyed her when I had the chance! Do you hear me Jupiter?! You are a monster! Yes YOU are the monster....to breath life back into me, just so you could exact your pitiful revenge for these Intellects and Warrior Clans. Where was the justice in our existence? You favored the two Clans over ours, keeping our inner powers in check, while they prospered and lived as gods! The Elder Clan was never seen as an equal! Never!"

Eric's words made Riki lose it, and a whirlwind was unleashed as he aimed at Eric and sliced his flesh as if he wielded a sword. Eric howled his misery as he stood moments from death. Iason spoke to Eric in a loud and booming voice. "YOU are a betrayer! Taking was not yours to take, and having the gall to call us favored? You spread your seeds of hatred all over the stars, and we've had to clean up your mess that rained on Amoi for over 10,000 years! Powers? You unleashed your Clan's so called powers upon your very own people, while your father and the rest of the cowards, ran to the mountains. For nearly 500 years they hid their heads in the sand, as Amoi was torn apart by your Clan's 'powers'.”

Where was the high intellect of your Clan? Hm? You kept your knowledge beneath your robes, and gave nothing to Jupiter! If Jupiter had been given the data of your people as agreed upon, she may have prevented the 500 years of sorrow, but no, you all held back, filing empty reports, and worthless data, that became your own undoing! I don't answer to YOU Eric, a spoiled and petulant child, who unleashed hell on Amoi, and too foolish to know how to undo the damage." Iason began to pace like a lion about to strike.

"You played with powers you learned on the shadowless planet Rhea, and yes, Riki and I cleaned that rats den out permanently! It is fitting that you meet your ancestors in hell once and for all. Riki and I will be honored to let you see what transpired on Rhea, the final moments of your cursed and wretched inbred Clan, forever cleansed from the universe!"

Iason and Riki now stood before him, and as Iason nodded to his father to join him, Riki and Iason brought Eric into their mind's eye. They appeared in their royal robes, and off to the other side, Raimen stood apart suddenly joined by Kai. Kai was shocked to see himself in such a place wondering if were just a dream come back to haunt him, but as he looked over to Iason and Riki, he knew this was real.

The two father's watched the scene along with Odi -who had never experienced anything like this in his life- and just stood with his mouth open. The scene change and suddenly they were back on Rhea, the images of both Iason being led in chains to the Elders Council Chambers and Riki arriving with the rescue team were played out before all. At long last, they were before the Council of Elders, then the final battle began and Iason and Riki unleashed their powers.

Eric watched and listened as all the Elders contempt for Iason and Riki was heard, and when the moment came when the Elders attempted to blackmail Jupiter, they saw Jupiter touch Iason's cheek and fade. The Elders saw Iason and Riki transform and exert their powers, and so began the final attack. When all the dust settled, Iason and Riki, had destroyed them all, thousands of Clansmen beneath that dormant volcano, and only their ashes remained. Eric had never seen the powers of the Intellects or Warrior Clansmen, and to see Iason and Riki so transformed left him speechless. Raimen and Kai were equally surprised as they never saw Iason or Riki in such a way. Their beautiful sons, standing back to back destroying the last of a wicked Clan.

For Kai, it was as if a salve had been rubbed on his soul, the centuries of battling an enemy to no end, was finalized in the end of an old plague that were the Elders of Rhea. And now only one remained. Eric hung his head as he was finally shown the fruit of his idiocy, millennium of death and sorrow, was now firmly placed on his shoulders. The final nail to the coffin and a final breath before the final plunge.

Iason and Riki now looked at Eric, not with anger, or revenge in their hearts, but pity. They could now let go of that one issue they never saw resolved. The death of Eric thousands of years ago, and yet he never stopped dying, if Jupiter had been punishing him for so long. Now they could let this go. Be at peace.

The scene's faded, and Iason and Riki had transformed back, Raimen had blown Kai a kiss as they disappeared, and Odi touched his head, as he felt the pain of a first trip into the mind's eye. He focused to see Iason and Riki looking down on Eric as if trying to decide what to do. Would it all end now, that the truth was revealed, would Jupiter end this tortured soul's life once and for all?

"I'll save you the trouble, let me go and I'll plunge into the abyss, to reap one final deathblow, there is no point in harvesting me ever again, for you have come full circle now, and I am of no use." Eric looked up to Iason who agreed, though could not make himself say it out-loud. He would just assume let him take a swan dive off the edge, after all, he would surely find death in the next few moments.

Riki however, did not have such sympathy for Eric, real or imagined, he spent many decades imagining what he saw was the truth, that Iason had betrayed him, and it wasn't until they were reunited, that both of them saw what had occurred, and how they were fooled. If anything, he'd love to turn him into a handful of dust himself, ending the cycle forever.

"I say we grant bastard one last plunge into the pit. Death awaits him in a place only my father has seen. Hell is not what you think Eric, hell has no beginning and no end, and from this hell, I pulled my father out. By your hand, was he led to suffer such loss. I'm not to stand on ceremony, I say we toss the bastard Iason, let him greet all the other fucked up Eric's in hell."

"Agreed." Iason looked at Jupiter who bowed and turned to Eric. She was in the form of Lady Erin and as she unlocked his chains, Eric fell to one knee, and before anyone could move, he grabbed Iason by the wrist, and fell backwards into the pit.

"If I can't have you, oh precious one, no one will!"

"Iason!" Riki tried to stop their fall, but was too slow. Raimen had not even seen the exchange, as he was heading away from them, but turned as he heard Riki's scream. He ran the edge of the pit, and felt his heart stop, Iason was gone.

Eric clung tightly to Iason as they fell head first into the pit in darkness. Suddenly the pit became filled with a golden glow, and they stopped in mid air, and began to float up back to the surface. Eric opened his eyes to find Iason transformed, his eyes a deeper shade of blue, and his face glowing softly as his beautiful blonde hair danced in mid air. Eric could not believe his eyes. He knew Iason was absolutely stunning in appearance, but had never expected what he saw now.

"An angel...is what I will see in my final moments of life...so beautiful, dare I believe it?"

"No. It is not an angel of life Elder Eric, but your angel of death! Be gone you evil and pitiful shell of a man!"

Iason clenched Eric by the throat as he continued his upward momentum, and as he floated in mid air with Eric dangling, he released him, and watched him fall. Iason turned his head to find Riki completely undone, as he thought Iason would be lost. Iason floated back to the edge and embraced Riki.

Odi thought he would pass out as both he and Raimen shook their heads. Raimen was ever thankful that Iason and Riki had become so strong. He turned to Jupiter and in an angry tone made a request.

"Jupiter, where do you house his remains? You will destroy them all now. We shall never see Eric breath life ever again. He may have gone mad in his tortured life, but I will not see his face ever again. To think he still had enough life in him to attempt to take Iason with him is appalling to say the least. That line of Clansmen, has come to its end."

"Yes Lord Mink, he is being purged as we speak, and the pit will be sealed immediately. My apologies Lord lason, I failed you, and nearly cost you your life." Jupiter stood silently as Iason and Riki continued in their embrace.

"Well, that goes to show you Jupiter, that you are just a wiry old bitch, who needs an oil job or something, cuz you underestimated that bastard." Riki mumbled from beneath Iason's embrace. Riki peeked out and saw Jupiter continue to fret, and then smiled. "Naw, don't sweat it, I knew Iason could fly...hell, you should see what we can do while floating..."

"Riki!" Iason began to blush uncharacteristically, as Riki started to giggle, releasing some of the tension in the air. When Raimen chimed in.

"Oh yes! I agree son! Why just the other day, Kai and I..."

"Enough! Father, I don't think this is appropriate conversation." Iason now brought to mind catching Raimen and Kai in sexual bliss a week ago, and as he looked at Jupiter, she smiled back.

"Well, I'm glad that's over, that's all I've got to say." Raimen sighed deeply, suddenly recalling Kai's appearance in their mind's eye. "I need to go to Kai, and explain all that happened. Certainly having him see Eric, must have drummed up some unpleasant memories, so if you'll excuse me Iason, I will take my leave."

"Lord Raimen, you will find Lord Kai in the arboratum, he is doing well." Jupiter smiled and bowed to Raimen. Iason nodded to Odi to follow him.

"Jupiter, I have a question for you, why did you not reanimate Ian? He could have also witnessed this come to an end." Iason watched as Jupiter vanished and reappeared before Ian's remains.

"Lord Iason, I could not bring Ian back, when the blast destroyed the Ios Tower, Ian, was completely destroyed, and I could not find enough of his DNA to reanimate him. So I was unable to bring young Ian back. Iason thought about this, and then his eyes lit up.

"I do know where there is a sample of his DNA! Where is the old lab? Where my father and Lord Kai reanimated Elder Jonas' old dog? Ian and I had stored samples of our DNA in case we blew up the lab in our experiments! Surely that survived?"

Jupiter hummed softly as she accessed her memory banks, and then spoke. "The old lab was destroyed, but there remains a portion at the east wing, it is sealed off from the surface, but the corridors from here do lead to it.”

“We need to go and find out!." Iason turned to Riki who raised an eyebrow and smiled. Jupiter began to walk away from Iason and Riki who followed. Riki was just as excited to see Iason light up with the possibility. Though at one time he feared Ian was his rival, he knew it was never true, as he was told this, by Eric. Just more lies to come between he and Iason. He actually looked forward to it, as Ian was a cool Blondie, now that he could appreciate the Intellect Clan.

They made their way to the east wing, and found more of the same destruction and laser fire as the west wing, but also they could see where parts of the building had melted in the heat of the blast. Jupiter stopped near a door that was charred and broken. Iason and Riki entered and found many old laboratory equipment, which turned to fine dust as it was touched by them. It seemed the whole room was about to blow away, much like sand is stirred in the wind. Iason tried desperately to remember where the specimens were stored, but so much time had passed, even if parts of the underground were preserved, there was just too much decay. Jupiter began to hum softly then spoke.

“I’m picking up a reading behind that wall Lord Iason, it seems there is still a power source, though faint.” Jupiter pointed to what was the remains of an old processor near a far wall. Iason and Riki moved the old machine, which revealed a small safe. Iason stared at it trying to remember the access password.

“Damn this blasted memory of mine! I have the word on the tip of my tongue...” Iason began to pace back and forth, when Riki spoke up.

“Iason, relax, try to picture yourself doing this with Ian, there must have been a secret word you two used.” Riki gave him a lopsided smile, which coincidently reminded Iason of something his father said.

“Poor Ian, follows you like a puppy Iason, treat him nice someday he’s going to be brilliant!”

“Old Jonas’ dog! We were working on reanimating small animals first, and joked that we should reanimate Elder Jonas’ large breed-mix who looked like it was always near death, what was it’s name?”

Jupiter hummed softly s she recalled her ancient former self as she was known as the Living Text. Old entries she saved for Iason and Riki’s return. “Accessing Personal Profile File: Iason Mink...Reanimation Laboratory Trials...The dog’s name was ‘Smelly Kali'.”

“That is it!” Iason turned around and in a few quick moves had accessed the safe and pressed the password “Smelly Kali”. With as slight hiss, the safe opened, and there before him were two celendrical test tubes, cryogenically sealed and still perfectly preserved. Iason turned to Riki with a big smile, “Ian is still with us Riki, I have found our brother and he will indeed breathe the living air of Amoi once more.”

Riki became animated as he saw the test tubes. “Holy Shit! Iason! One more Ancient!


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Oi!!(o.0)' Sorry for the dalay! I'm back on my feet and I hope you enjoyed my chapter. If you are so inclined, please review it ....I hope to update more frequently...

Thanx for all your emails and support (Jenny...Barbara...Kira *chu* and Jaxxy!! <333