The Lost

The Lost
Chapter 7: The Sun Shall Rise

Like the subtle vibrations of a fly caught on a spider's web, they awoke. A sluggish and ancient foe began to stir. There were ships to awaken, and courses to be plotted. The gates to their realm had been breached, and the alarms were set off. It had been centuries since the sounds of an ancient beacon, were heard echo in their dark halls. In fact, those on duty could not find the commands to turn the alarms off. It had been that long. When the automated systems kicked in, those awake had a hard time figuring out what in fact triggered the alarms in the first place.

“Beacon 1272 has been set off. What is that blasted siren?!”

“Are you sure it was not just old space junk falling apart?”

“No my Lord. It seems a wormhole as been navigated, and two ships have been detected. Though to be honest, I have no idea where the command console for this system is located!”

The young man ran across the room, facing the wall where the many lights were flashing, trying to figure out which button to press, as the loud alarms continued to blast one loud single ping which vibrated throughout the city.

“Hm. Beacon 1272 is old technology. Access has been lost since before this generation was ever conceived. Very well. Send out a reconnaissance team to investigate. It has been too long since we've had company.”

“Yes, my Lord.”

“I want them alive, young Elder, so if you do indeed confirm a ship, track them.”

“Yes, my Lord.”

As their Council assembled, the ancient ones took their seats. Their region of space was vastly unknown, and the alliances of old held no value, when one can reign unrivaled. The quiet murmurs turned to loud conversations, as the Council of Elders took their seats.

“Lord Viho, what is the meaning of this? The sun has yet to rise, yet we were summoned by that blasted alarm! What is being done to turn that damn noise off?! What do the long distance satellites show?”

“It is too soon to tell my Lords.” Lord Viho spoke from their communication console. “I do know that beacon 1272 has not been triggered in centuries. Hm, curious stirrings have been voiced as of late, I find it hard to believe they are all a coincidence.” Lord Viho Pallaton tapped his fingertips on his armchair.

Yasuo, 10,000 years ago...

The inhabitants of Yasuo first found these tall mystical men as a sign the Gods were blessing them with their arrival. Yasuo in their ancient tongue meant “peaceful one,” as their world was innocent in the eyes of the mindless Elders. They had been thrown off their course, in the stream of time by an Intellect wise in the skill of navigation. They crash landed on the simple blue planet over ten thousand years ago. This was repeated many times in a window of three hundred years, by an elusive trio of Intellects who evaded the Elders for decades. Spread like seeds upon virgin soil, these Elders found themselves in a new region of space, whose inhabitants had never heard of Elder, Intellect or Warrior.

There were three clusters of stars in that system, and after thousands of years of domination, only one remained. The Elders minds yearned to conquer, and since the natives knew only peace, they were found to be easy pickings. But this proved to be more of a prison sentence than lordship. The worlds in those systems were a millennium removed from their advancements.

“Viho Sani”

“Ancient Chief,” is what he was named, as he seemed to never age. Elder Kana was known by this name; a contrast to his given name which actually meant “powerful one.” Elder Kana had accepted his new title, as the meek natives found them powerful, with metal birds that flew, and powers that rivaled their own gods.

At first, the Elders found taking to be quite boring, since the inhabitants posed no threat. The mindless Elders were held in check by their own who still had control of their faculties. These remnants of a lost Clan quickly took lordship over those who obeyed only the voice of an Elder. After centuries of breeding with the natives, their powers had all but disappeared.

But the Gods of War had not abandoned the Elder remnants from Amoi, these fallen mystics found a wealth of new found abilities in their merged bloodlines. The Yasuo natives had powers of their own. They worshiped the elements, and with good reason.

The marooned Elders soon realized the natives could harness the very same elements the Warrior and Intellect Clans of Amoi were naturally born with. It was at first found to be a curse among the Elders, who were accustomed to using their minds to control and battle. But when their minds failed to hold the natives down, their newly bred powers made the madness of their minds dissipate, and retreat into the farthest recesses of their psyche.

Their reign on Yasuo was soon challenged, as the natives revolted, having been forced into slavery. The women were taken at birth, and raised to breed more spawns mixed with the elements of two races. The leadership of the Yasuo was quickly tamed, and all was lost in the centuries that followed, until the Yasuo became the very dust under their feet.

Elder Viho reigned for the last four hundred years, and yes, he was truly and Ancient. A direct descendant of Elder Kana, the original Lord Elder on Yasuo. But what was once a powerful creation, with time, began to fade, as the women were no longer carrying the essence of the pure Yasuo. The Elders began to revert to their original forms, and much was lost over the last centuries.

But time and space could never remove the cancerous rage that permeated the Elder Clans since their first setting foot on Yasuo. Their attempts to return to their own sector would prove fruitless, as the gift of navigating the wormholes was bred out, robbing the Elders of the gift to see the wormhole's golden entrance. One failure after another, sent them to many regions of space, never to be heard from again. Elder Kana would end their attempts, and choose to instead seek the knowledge among the worlds in their own region.

The Elders extended their reach towards Yasuo's neighboring worlds. There, they found a race of beings much to their personal delight, and their own undoing. The people of that world had harnessed the power of energy, and unlike like Yasuo's innocence, they held their ground, and in the blinding light of destruction, the Elders were at the receiving end of destruction, as the surface of that world crumbled and was destroyed.

Those that survived that event, returned to Yasuo. And waited. They would wait until time would replenish their fallen. Until they woke one day, to the sounds of a distant echo. One lost in time.

Present day Yasuo...

“We have sent out a reconnaissance ship to beacon 1272. We will know within a few hours as to whether this was indeed a piece of space junk, or two ships as first thought.” Elder Viho spoke. “It has been many centuries since that portal was used, and our sensors are antiquated at best.”

“Then I suggest that your pilots not lose this opportunity to discover what crossed our path. I fear the prophets of this dying world will be up at arms once again, with the sounds of that blasted alarm!” Elder Pillan grumbled. “This talk of a Flame and Tempest is being heard of once again.”

“The Hope Prophesy is a myth, used by lesser beings as an excuse to raise their hand against his superiors.” Elder Raynard spoke. He was a shifty man with the tendency to alter his opinions to fit his agenda. The natives had dubbed him “Waneta” or “shape-shifter,” and named him appropriately. Little did this Elder know that the natives were well aware of his lack of morals.

“We shall give this investigation the attention it deserves. We are not in a position to be flying around this system on ships that would not survive a trip in one of them damn wormholes.” Elder Viho spoke. “There is also the very real possibility that this is yet another beacon that is deteriorating, as these ancient beacons are prone to malfunctioning...”

“No- I don't believe this is so.” Elder Pillan interrupted. “I have been hearing talk of this 'Flame' and 'Tempest' for nearly a century, and the chatter from these peasants is annoying. I have consulted the Oracles of our Clans, and they are adamant that this is a very real event.”

“The Oracles are nothing but a group of half-breeds, that hold no authority over this counsel.” Elder Reynard countered. “To consult or consort with them, is beneath the bloodlines of our Elders' lineage. We will not give in to centuries old tales of super beings, and heroes of these dead races. And I for one, will not have it!”

“My Lords, let's not get heated over nonsense. We will need to have a contingency plan if this is a new threat.” Lord Viho stood up and addressed the Council. “If we find this to be a ship -or ships- that have entered our region, we must act fast. I know I don't have to remind you, but we are in dire need of a newer and viable infusion of technology. Our fleet is quite old, and if we hope to ever return to Amoi, we would do best to lure that technology to our very door.”

A resounding shout of agreement was heard, as the Elders all wanted very much, to escape the prison they have lived in for over ten thousand years. The one thing handed down from one generation to another, was the goal of one day returning to Amoi. To take what was long lost.

*~*~*

The crew had all retired for the night. Iason had finally fallen asleep, as the day's revelations of Raoul weighed heavily on his mind. Riki could not blame him, after all they were quite close. He on the other hand could not sleep. He decided to walk about the ship and try to calm the uneasy feelings he was feeling. It was like a thought on the edge of his mind, covered in a veil of darkness and refusing to come into the light of awareness. Riki knew better than to dismiss such a feeling. He felt as if he were about to take a plunge into a deep pool of water, but hesitated to close his eyes and jump.

He found himself on the bridge, Sir James was piloting the ship, with Yousi quietly watching. Riki was shocked to learn Raoul's nightmare, and felt a whole new level of respect for the trio of would be heroes in Omaki, Jensen and Yousi. He quietly sat in one of the seats behind the pilot's station, and listened to Yousi tell Sir James about the wormholes he would see. Neither had noticed Riki's presence.

“They look like long worms, and they move just like them.” Yousi pointed to the wormholes before them. “The one on the left is the one to take, just make the course change by beacon 962 , and it will take us near beacon 1182 which used to exit near another entrance, and near beacon 1272. The original planet where we first began the vault of specimens sits at the exit. It was a small desert planet, but it was descent enough for our purpose.”

Sir James made the course change, and as they entered the wormhole, the ship vibrated, making James attempt to change course.

“No, no. Just let the wormhole's stream take you.” Yousi touched James on the shoulder. “You can't see it as I can, but trust me on this. You see it as a streak of light correct?”

“Yes,” James responded. “but that happens only when you are already in it. They are barely visible to the naked eye. Some look like a long streaks of light, while others appear to have some breaks, which fool's one to believe the wormhole is unstable.”

“Well they are all unstable.” Yousi spoke. “But, the one's that are true, do not break the streak. I see them as golden tubes. But because they do move like worms, it fools the pilot into bailing out, and they break them, sending them off course into places unknown. You have to trust your instincts, and follow them until they empty out. You are going to come upon beacon 1182, so prepare to jump from this exit of to your starboard, and enter near beacon 1272. That is a rather long wormhole. Our last entrance will be beacon 1302.”

“But how do you know they are true passages?”

“I can see them, before I enter them. I can see the wormhole's length, which is really a trick of the eyes, but I know they are complete. You see a streak of light, but that is misleading. Also when I transform, I can see if they are complete. I use to duck in and out of them as easily as you would a the maze on Vendal Park. At least that is what we used to called it.”

“It is still called Vendal Park, and it still has a maze.” James spoke. “Would you like to pilot the ship Lord Yousi, I'd love to see you manage this wormhole.”

“I don't know.” Yousi hesitated.

“Please do.” Came Riki's soft voice. “I would also like to see you manage a viable wormhole.”

James and Yousi were startled to see Riki sitting quietly in the back. They both nodded their respects to the young Prince.

“My Lord,” Yousi spoke. “Do you see the wormhole's glow?”

“Yes, I do.” Riki's eyes shined with a golden tone, as he raised his transformation only slightly, not wanting to awaken Iason. “I see this wormhole is quite long. What is the difference in length?”

“The longer the passage, the further out into the region you travel.” When we first began traveling through them, we found many smaller ones that led us only a few light years away from Amoi. There are many. And it took us a really long time of hit and miss, until I figured out their condition by glow, and length. But also, I could see as we traveled in them, their stability. When we first used the probes, we could determine their viability.”

Yousi's body began to transform, slightly, and his hair waved just a bit. His eyes did change though, giving him an eerie appearance with their golden ring. He sat in the other pilot's seat, and took over the controls from James. Riki walked towards the navigation station, and watched Yousi's face. It was as if he were in a trance, and as he took over, the ship began to fly smoothly.

The ship moved with little effort, as if he were navigating in water. It amazed James to see the ship respond to his touch. Yousi used little energy, as if he never stopped flying. Riki watched the monitor, and could see the wormhole's many twists and changes. He was impressed to see Yousi pilot the stream, and within a few moments, they exited the passage.

“We are now in Sector 985, Beacon 1272.” Yousi spoke.

“What?!” James responded. “Beacon 1272, is nearly seven light years away!”

Riki was truly impressed, with Yousi's abilities. He watched the young Lord's body language, which reflected his many years of piloting a vessel such as the Sentinel's Chariot. He recalled his father's comments with regards to losing his flag ship, and smiled.

“You seem to have never lost your touch Lord Xu.” Riki spoke. “You're quite the navigator. Our ladies seem to slumber quite a long way from home.”

“Yes, my Lord.” Yousi spoke softly. “But first my Lord, we will need to make an unscheduled stop. There were several recording devices left behind at the first site. If the data crystals can be found, you will have at least two centuries of entries.” Yousi's voice trailed off.

“Recordings? You mean like Omaki's log entries?” Riki stood near Yousi. He could sense his mind recalling much anxiety. “It is alright Yousi, as long as it does not divert us off our path.”

“No, my Lord, in fact it is on our direct path. Le Fidelis is hidden, and closer than you think. We had little time to move them, and I found Le Fidelis quite literally by accident.”

“Is that so?” Then by all means, we should continue. I think obtaining those data crystals will give us all a sense of understanding, as to your mission.” Riki paused. “And also into their lives away from home.”

“The Am household was strong my Prince.” Yousi began. “They knew their fate was sealed, yet bravely looked on, decade after decade.”

“I can't imagine it was easy for them or you, Yousi.” Riki spoke. He could sense the mind of Yousi replaying the scenes in his head, as his memory of the Lady Annabelle came to mind.

“I think, that when we find them. Lord Am will be overwhelmed. Both is parents, and sister, along with the members of his household, will be a difficult thing to see.”

“It will be. I'm certain of this.” Riki spoke. “But also it will be a beacon of hope, if you pardon the expression. Lord Raoul will know his family will be restored. Hope will be on the horizon, and that in itself, will be a healing salve to his heart.”

“It will be some time before we arrive my Lord, this wormhole will take us at least a few hours to travel. Perhaps you should try to get some sleep.” Yousi spoke. “I believe your body has been drained with much use of your abilities.”

“I am fine. I seem restless with something I can only explain as a presence in my mind. I used to be this way when I was much younger, and normally with my mother. I know she's awakened, and maybe that's all it is. She is quite powerful, and we used to play hide and seek in that very same maze at Vendel Park. The trick was to do it blindfolded. She was actually making me stronger. I see that now. Lord Kai is also an empath, but not as sensitive as my mother and I.”

“It is truly an impressive gift.” Sir James spoke. “I am always intrigued by your ability to sense the crews' emotional state. And your energy is always a comfort to us all.”

“Comfort?” Yousi asked.

“Yes, when Lord Riki traveled with us to rescue Lord Iason, the crew was really on pins and needles. Lord Riki sent out a burst of- I don't know how to explain it, but it was like a breeze of warm air that went right through us, and we felt so calm, serene actually. It was amazing.

Yousi thought of his awakening, and how he saw Riki in his mind, glowing serenely. “Yes, I believe I know what you speak of. In my mind, I saw you my Lord. You made me feel as if I was surrounded in a warm blanket. Truly secure.”

Riki blushed slightly, as both men looked at him with smiles on their faces.

“Aw, man, now you've gone and embarrassed me.” Riki smiled. “Hell, it was the right thing to do, given the emotions that you all were experiencing. Like now. The crew is happily experiencing the hope of finding the Maidens. It is a positive feeling, and one I had no hand in.”

Yousi and James continued to smile. Riki for all his growth, was still a young Lord. Though his return from the past at times confused his mind, the reconciling of past to present was something to see. He was truly bred of Royalty, and they knew Lord Kai was extremely proud of him. They could also see the great love the Lord of the Warrior Clans had towards his son. Riki was a strong presence.

“Well, I guess I should try to get a few hours of sleep. Wake us when we enter orbit.”

“Yes, my Lord.” James bowed, as he took over the navigation of the ship once again.

“My Prince,” Yousi called after Riki, who was about to leave the bridge. “How is Lord Raoul?”

“He still sleeps. I will awaken him later this morning. He will be a bit of a mess at first. But I hope this trip to retrieve his family, and the Maidens will be the first steps in his awakening. We need to support him as much as we can.”

“I hope he does not suffer too much.” Yousi nodded.

“Now Yousi, I know you mean well, but I did see what you tried to hide in your mind.” Riki touched Yousi's temple. “I picked up on the image of Raoul before you awakened.”

“It was a nightmare, my Lord.”

“Yes, it was.” Riki nodded. “And by what we all saw in Omaki's mind, it was raw vengeance at it's core. I don't think there is a man alive who would not have done the same. Remind me to tell you about true vengeance at a computer level.” Riki gave Yousi a sideways glance. “Now there was revenge on a level never before seen.”

“My Lord?” Yousi looked at him without understanding what he was talking about.

“Yousi, please call me Riki. I know things have changed with our minds returning to us. You more than anyone, would know what I am talking about. Have you recalled anymore of your life in the present?”

“I get bits and pieces, yes. But I have more of my past in recall, than in the present.”

“Well, don't feel bad. Both Iason and I also have some gaps in our minds. With all we've survived, I am amazed we're not all mad. Poor Raoul's tortured mind serves to remind us of where we all came from.”

“I think, Raoul will suffer. I can't help but remember his pain. When we found Yui, he collapsed in front of his body....” Yousi's face became pained, when he recalled the images.

Riki reached up once more and touched his heart with the palm of his hand. He released a burst of energy from his heart. Yousi felt once again the warmth of his tempest, like James recalled. He felt his love wash over his body, and every one his pores felt the tingle of Riki's power.

“There, now don't be in so much pain.” Riki smiled. “We all will be so overjoyed with the Maidens back in our hands. Maybe we'll even find you a bride!” Riki teased.

“Well, that I don't know, my Prince. I've just gotten Heiku back.” Yousi smiled.

“Yes, speaking of Heiku, I don't get the impression you two were intimate in the past. Is this so? I sensed your confusion when you first began to awaken.”

Yousi became silent. There was pain in his expression, and Riki wondered about it.

“Heiku and I loved from afar Riki. As Lord Kai mentioned on more than one occasion, that war was hell. Heiku was knee deep in blood every time we crossed paths. I did love him, but our mission left little time to ever touch on our feelings for one another. Unlike Omaki and Argent who were together throughout our missions. When we left for our final trip to Les Fidelis, it was the last time I saw him alive.”

Riki's face went blank. He had assumed they were lovers in the past, but now it seemed as if they were more like two ships at sea, only passing by, and never meeting.

“You and Heiku loved, but never touched. Is this so?” Riki's eyes betrayed his sadness for them both. “You did not make it back, Omaki and Argent did, as I now piece together your words.”

“Yes, I never got to see him again. And I never got to tell him my true feelings. I always felt there was time for love, thinking the wars would end, but they never did. I have always been a quiet man, so it was difficult for me to show my true feelings. I was often teased by Omaki, who said I was stubborn ass!” Yousi laughed in spite of himself. “He said that I my cock would fall off in rebellion, for not giving in to desire. Although, I believe Heiku always knew. When I saw him in the conference room after I awakened, I could not believe my eyes in seeing Heiku alive. That we are lovers in the present, was just another reason for me to rejoice.”

“You have not told him this have you?” Riki whispered. “You do not want to taint his memory, as he has not yet awakened. Is this not so?”

“Yes. As it was for Raoul. I didn't suffer as he did, but I know Heiku was in the trenches piecing together our wounded. I can't imagine his memories. I suppose it will be as it was for Lord Kai. I mean, we three saw a multitude of dead. For nearly three hundred years....Riki.”

Ricki raised his hand, and caressed one of Yousi's shoulders, in attempt to sooth him.

“Yes, sometimes I wonder how we all will feel once we are all back from the dead. Though in Jupiter's defense, I feel she is giving us all a second chance at happiness. And if we look at it that way, I believe each one of us, will feel blessed.”

“I agree. Having Heiku before me, alive, and the fact that he loves me here, where we never got to be in the past, makes me glad to be alive.”

“You know Yousi. There was something Iason and I did at the beginning, before we awakened that helped us focus our mind, and center our energy. They were meditation lessons with Aristian Meditation Spheres. I was a pain in the ass, and none too patient with his lessons. But once we discovered this connection, it made us stronger. You should try these meditation lessons. We have three Elders on board, and Petros is an excellent teacher.

You have much in your heart and mind that needs to find peace. These lessons will center you, and you have also untapped inner powers. Not necessarily those you used in navigating the ship, but powers that you can grasp and use in defense, or in attack. I want you to find Petros, or his two assistants Shinyo or Kohta. You have already learned how to tap into these powers, without you even knowing. If you can learn to discipline your mind, you will be able to use these powers. By what I've felt of Omaki and Argent, I know they haven't the foggiest idea they possess power."

“No my Lord, they depended on their arsenal of weapons. I don't recall them ever using their inner powers. And we never wanted to draw attention to our location. We stayed low to the ground, and blended into the scenery. It was the only way we survived doing what we had to do. ”

“Well, Omaki unleashed might be rather comical, but I have felt the intensity of his heart. If he is pushed, he will be a power to reckon with. I will make sure the three of you learn these meditation techniques.”

“That sounds good. Though knowing Omaki, we'll need to keep him on a leash!”

“Can't be as bad as I was. I think Iason had me over his knee enough times, when I first couldn't sit still. I never knew those lessons would one day save our lives.”

Both men smiled. Yousi excused himself, as Riki headed back to his quarters. Even though he had a good chat with Yousi, he still could not shake the ominous feeling in his mind. It was as if he were trying to grasp a puff of smoke. He knew better than to dismiss it, but could not find a point of reference in his mind to grab hold of this feeling to see what it was.

He walked near Raoul's quarters, and sensed his peaceful mind. Raoul would need the rest, for what was coming, and he hoped with Iason and their parents, they would be able to let Raoul grieve his loss, but only after he was informed of Yui's present life. Once he recalled his present life, and reconciled it with his past, he was certain, Raoul would find his peace of mind. At least that is what he hoped.

As he passed his father's room, he sensed the two Lords were enjoying the company of a third party. However, he didn't want to know who the latest conquest was. Riki recalled Iason's cursed timing, in that he always had the misfortune of walking in on their father's sexual exploits. He did the equivalent of singing in his head, as he quickly walked by. He hoped whoever the lucky man was, he was prepared for their thirst for carnal activity. Riki picked up on the subtle moans, and hasten his pace down the corridor.

Next, he stopped at the observation deck near the mess hall. He looked at the golden glow of the wormhole, wishing Iason was awake to witness the streamlined effect of Yousi's piloting. Yousi remembered the coordinates as if no time had passed. He remembered his travels in the past, when he was running away from Iason and his life. He did not care where he landed, so long as it was far, away. Truly wanting to be lost.

But still, the presence in his mind picked at his brain, and as he began to head back to his quarters, he seemed to have opened a new path in his memory. Perhaps it was the glow of the wormhole, or the region of space- that being light years away from Amoi. He had a great gap of that time, that was missing. He would see flashes of recall that took him to exotic worlds, and new faces. But as soon as he was recognized, he made for his escape, further into space.

He never knew Amoi suffered. And when he found himself in the Alpha Quadrant, he made a home for himself among a people new to the space community. Where no one knew his name. Riki turned the corner to his quarters, and before he entered his room, he remembered his recall of Iason. His regrets for ever leaving Amoi, and the loss of his family- his world, as he knew it. There was no easy way to explain it to them, and Jupiter was now the mother of them both, as she tried to soften the blow. Riki's heart felt as if it would never cease to ache.

As he entered his quarters, he gazed at Iason's sleeping body. He was so serene, as if he didn't have a worry in the world. Riki quietly undressed, and then managed to climb in without Iason knowing. He tried once more to get some sleep, gently wrapping his arms around Iason's waist, and snuggling against his back. He felt Iason's quiet breathing against his face, and listened to his lungs fill with air, and slowly breath out. It was this peaceful sound, that finally gave Riki the peace of mind he'd been looking for. He closed his eyes, and fell asleep.

*~*~*

It was a long night, but Yui managed to find his peace of mind after a non-stop history lesson by Lord Hector Stone, and Sir James Earl. The two men did their best to bring him up to speed, as the archives were opened, and the two men gave Yui a crash course in Amoian History. His head ached, and he felt as if his world as he knew it, was tilted upon his head. One thing that stood out, was the fact that he and Raoul were lovers for over a decade. Even in the worst of conditions, love found a way to their hearts.

He didn't look forward to discovering the details of his death. “Who would want to know ahead of time?” He wondered to himself. “We all died under trying circumstances, and in a time when 'survive the day' was their motto.” Yui thought.

Before heading up to the penthouse, he decided to stop by their apartment. He missed Raoul more than ever before, and could not shake the image of him collapsing after Lady Erin's awakening. He wanted to comfort him, but was not able to do this from Amoi. As he entered through the front door, he was greeted by the housekeeping team, sent to freshen up the apartment. They greeted him sweetly, and closed the door behind them. Yui looked around, and wondered how much his life was going to change.

There would be many changes. First of all, his family would be returning with him. Yui felt a great surge of emotions bubbling to the surface, and he began to cry softly. If pixie were there, no doubt he would be trying to comfort him, but he was at the penthouse, probably wondering were he was at. Yui wiped the tears from his eyes, and made for the master bedroom. He pressed the access codes, and walked towards Raoul's dresser. He uncapped his favorite cologne, and dabbed a drop on his wrist. He imagined Raoul standing behind him, as he loved to do, caressing his arms, and pulling him tight against his body.

“How I miss you my love.” Yui whispered in the quiet of the room. “Will you be alright Raoul? I pray Riki can ease your suffering. I've seen him change with his new personality, I hope he can be a great source of comfort.”

Yui wiped a stray tear from his eye, as his thoughts were interrupted by a sudden noise in the grand hall. Yui poked his head around the corner and was nearly scared to death, as a laser pistol was aimed at his forehead.

“Holy crap!” Came the voice of Askel, as he pulled the weapon off his target. “Yui, you just scared the hell out of me!”

“Askel? What is it?” Came a voice from his wrist communicator. “Is everything alright?”

It was the voice of Freyn.

“Yeah, it was just Yui. He's in the apartment. Everything is ok.”

“Good. Now get Master Yui up to the penthouse, he's not to be left unguarded.”

“Will do.”

“Unguarded?” Yui spoke, after taking a brief moment to compose himself.

“Yes, Master Yui.” Askel bowed slightly. This caught Yui completely off guard, and he stood speechless. “We were briefed by Odi, after Lady Erin awakened. How do you feel?”

“I'm tired. I just wanted to check on things here. I just passed housekeeping, they did a fine job.”

“Pft! Fine job? The apartment is empty!” Askel laughed, then composed himself, forgetting that Yui was now a young Lord. “Forgive me, I forget you are now a young Master.”

“Oh that.” Yui waved him away. “Don't worry, I'm not sure whether this is all real or not. I feel a bit distant from the reality of it all. Me- a Lord?” Yui laughed quietly, as if expecting someone to jump out of the shadows and tell him this was all a joke. “I'm sorry Askel. When I awoke this morning, I never thought I would be where I am tonight. All I do know is that Raoul is far from me, and he is in pain. Or will be soon.”

Yui's sad words, touched Askel. He didn't know what to do or say. Odi had told the household of Yui's change in station, and of his past, according to the archives. While this was met with great surprise, they all felt he was quite deserving of the title. Though they all felt the same- what can one say to such a past?

Askel placed a hand on Yui's shoulder, as the young man trembled, and finally cried. He had not done so openly all day. He was moved true, by all he'd seen, and all he learned. But there had not been any private time for him to absorb all the drama of the day. It wasn't until he walked into the master bedroom, and took in Raoul's scent. Askel pulled him into his embrace, and held him for a long moment.

“That's it...let it out Yui.” Askel whispered. “You have a great deal to take in, and I don't envy what you must be feeling.” Askel tried his best to sooth him. “But there is an incredible change in your life, that is about to take place. I know it may be hell in the beginning. But having seen Iason and Riki survive this, I know Raoul will do just as well.”

Yui listened to Askel's comforting words. It was true. Iason and Riki survived a great deal on their path to the present.

“Do you really think so Askel?” Yui's quiet voice, trembled.

He looked up at the tall bodyguard, who did his best to smile. He always had a hard time telling the twins apart, finding Askel the more sensitive one, otherwise, he was prepared to do as Toma spoke of the twins, and tattoo the letter “A” and “F” on the back of their heads.

“Yeah, I think it will be rough for a while, but look at how happy Iason and Riki are! And they have their fathers alive again, and soon Lady Erin will be all over the place, along with Lady Yuri.”

Yui smiled when he thought of Lady Erin's sweet face. She really was beautiful, and quite formal, though he did find it funny that this tiny woman was beating on poor Raimen.

“Ah, I see you are recalling something amusing, by the look on your face no? Well whatever it is, I'm glad for it. You are much cuter when you smile.” Askel felt better, now that Yui's face begin to lightened up.

“I was thinking of Lady Erin. She was really something else in her mind's eye. I saw her throwing all sorts of household trinkets at Lord Raimen, and she didn't miss once!” Yui's face suddenly lit up with the image in his mind.

“Well, you will have to tell us all about it. I really am pissed I missed it all. Odi said the same thing. He said Riki had to hold her back, and that she tried to beat him over the head with a vase!” Askel laughed, imagining Lord Raimen hiding from Lady Erin.

“Yes! It was a crystal vase, and Riki had to physically hold her back! Lord Raimen is quite the funny one, he hardly took it seriously, until he was being used as target practice.” Yui began to laugh again. “She is something else. I'm suppose to see her in the morning. She told Lord Stone that I was to sit with her every day.”

“Well, if that is true, then we need you to get upstairs and rested. You've had quite a day, I'm told. So the sooner you get to bed, the better. Toma is worrying a hole on the floor upstairs, because he feared for you. It will make them all feel better once they see that you are ok.”

“Very well. But can you please call me Yui? I'm really not used to the title yet. Now I know how Riki felt.”

“Well, that one was a handful if you recall. But to wake up and find out you were a Prince is quite a leap. He didn't know what to do with himself. Remember the hell he gave Raoul? Now they are close friends! There are many things that will change, due to Jupiter's plans. I for one, can't wait.”

“Yes, it will be something else. I knew when Raoul learned he was an Ancient, that I might have to share him with Lord Kai, or a wife or some other lover. But now I realize...I was that lover.''

Yui became silent once again. Askel gave him a playful tug on his tunic. “C'mon, let's go home. Everyone is waiting for you. I am happy for you Yui, you have always been loyal to Raoul. I bet you two will be flaming hot like Riki and Iason always are.”

“I doubt that.” Yui said rather dryly. “Those two get into it at the drop of a hat. Though I do find their love incredibly romantic, having survived time, and space.”

“Yeah, the little guy is quite amazing in Iason's eyes. By the way, what did you mean by you sharing Lord Kai?”

Yui smiled, as he raised his eyebrows suggestively. Askel looked at him with surprise.

“You've got to be fucking kidding me!”

The two left the apartment, and headed up the elevator towards the penthouse.

*~*~*

Daryl bit his nails nervously, as they all waited for Yui and Askel to arrive. The afternoon was spent by all of them rearranging Yui's sleeping quarters. They moved his belongings to one of the larger suites, closer to the grand hall. Toma had spent the day making all his favorites, knowing he was in need of comfort food, and probably a good stiff drink. Odi held a meeting with the household staff, and both Katze and Daryl sat in, as Odi wanted Katze to continue helping as private security while he stayed with Daryl at the penthouse.

“Do you think Yui is going to be ok Katze?”

“I think so love, we've known Yui for years.” Katze smiled. “He's probably feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. I doubt he will know how to act, never mind the fact that he is now a Lord.”

“I feel like he's going to be really lonely for Raoul. They have become so close, these past few months. When he arrived on Aristia, I was surprised. But they looked so happy together.” Daryl whispered.

“Well, if I know Yui, he's made of sturdy stuff, considering who his Master was. Though now that they are lovers, it changes things.” Katze touched Daryl's nose. “And he doesn't need us frowning around him, so let's make him feel comfortable ok?”

Daryl nodded his head. Everyone was excited, but also quite scared for Yui. He was one of them, after all. They knew what this type of change could bring in one such as him. He was an Attendant, and a loyal servant of Raoul. No doubt he would shy away from the attention he was about to receive, but they all had the recent experience of Iason and Riki making the changes, so they were confident they could help Yui while everyone was gone, should he awaken.

As Askel and Yui walked through the front door, they were surprised to hear Yui giggling with Freyn closing the door behind them.

“You two are pulling my leg! Aren't ya? Askel?” Freyn was heard laughing. Askel mentioned Yui's little liaison with Lord Kai and Lord Raimen, after Askel bragged to Freyn about it. “How can I get a piece of that action?!”

“It'll never happen to you, with all your weird bodily noises interrupting the moment. Lord Kai is bound to zap your ass, before he fucks it!” Askel giggled, as Yui blushed. Everyone in the room stopped their activity when the three entered. They half expected Yui to be in tears, but were pleasantly surprise nevertheless.

“Welcome home Master Yui.” Katze bowed, as Toma entered from the kitchen. Having just heard the front door chime, he was speechless to find everyone had bowed to Yui. He rushed in, and passed everyone without ceremony and gave Yui a huge hug.

“Oh! Yui, I am so happy you are alright! I was worried sick over you! Come, have a seat, can I get you a drink? Perhaps a glass of wine?” Toma looked around, as if telling everyone to scatter. Katze shook his head at Toma, who stuck his tongue out and quickly smiled at Yui who looked around.

“I-I could use a drink, yes, thank you Toma.”

Daryl rushed to the bar, and quickly poured him a glass of wine. He quickly returned, not wanting to miss a word. He offered the glass to Yui, who watched everyone rushing around finding it quite sweet, and none too funny.

“I'm still Yui, you guys. I've not changed, at least not yet.” Yui pointed to his head. “I've been offered drinks all day today.” Yui took the wine from Daryl's hand. “But now that I'm home, I think I will enjoy this one. Now that there are no Lords, Sir's or even a Queen to keep up appearances. So will you all do me a great big favor and just relax? Grab a drink all of you!”

“Well, I guess we shouldn't tell him about his room?” Daryl said rather dryly. “It's a shame, because it has a beautiful terrace, and a small fountain.” He winked at Yui.

“Wah?” Yui nearly spilled his wine. “You did what?!”

“Well, you are no longer an 'Attendant' Yui, or did you miss that bulletin?” Toma chimed in, as they all suddenly began to laugh. “So tell us all about Lady Erin! Odi said she is a vision!” Toma pulled on Yui's arm, and this time, he did spill his wine. Yui smiled, as Toma wiped a cloth over Yui's hand. They all seemed to relax a bit more, now that they saw him smiling. Daryl ran back to the bar, and began to pour everyone a drink.

“Well, she is exactly like Jupiter, only that she is a real live person. She's really quite regal, and has the most polite manners, even while she was completely out of it when she woke.” Yui noticed all of them hanging on to his every word.

“Were you scared?” Daryl asked rather loudly, as he poured the drinks from the bar.

“What was it like to be in her mind?” Katze now joined in on the conversation, as Daryl handed him a glass of wine. “I've never really experienced anything like that, I can't even begin to imagine.”

“Well, she was really sad, and lonely at first. She walked along a beach, I suppose it was in ancient Amoi. I did notice that everywhere she was, she was surrounded by green gardens, and flowers. It reminded me of Aristia when we were all there. But then it was quite frightening when she recalled the Elders attacking the royal palace. The Elders were really out of their minds. She then remembered falling off the balcony, and dying.” Yui became quiet when he remembered her sadness.

“So did she really try to beat up on Lord Raimen?” Daryl smiled, trying to keep Yui's mind from thinking sad things. “I simply love that man! He is always getting in trouble, and Lord Kai just seems to go along with it.” Daryl began to laugh. “Did you see him at the Lord's Dance? He was an absolute riot!”

“Yes!” Toma joined him laughing. “I thought he was brilliant when he passed Lord Heiku off to that long line of Blondie's who wanted to dance with him!”

“He is really a funny Lord, Iason needed a net to keep up with him.” Yui spoke once more. “He is also an absolute charmer.” Yui blushed slightly.

“Yes Yui, tell us about that.” Freyn teased, as Askel elbowed him to keep quiet.

“And you were in the mix! I am so jealous!” Toma punched him playfully, once again spilling Yui's wine. “Oh dear me, I better stop that! Here, let me take that from you.”

“I'm fine. Really, don't fuss around me you guys. I'm ok..” Yui stared at the group. “It was really just so overwhelming to learn of my past.”

“Well, you better get used to the idea of having your own Attendants, if I know Lord Raoul.” Daryl spoke up. “He fusses so much around you as it is.” Daryl stopped short of biting his tongue, when he saw Yui's expression change. His eyes teared up, and he then covered his eyes and began to weep.

“Oh sweetheart. I'm so sorry!” Daryl slapped his forehead, then reached out and knelt next to him, giving him a hug. “I am such an idiot! I meant no harm, I know this is difficult for you.”

“It's just so hard to think of him suffering so much on my account. I wish he were home, and I wish he would not have to suffer this episode of his life.” Yui quietly sobbed.

“But this must happen Yui.” Katze soothed. “Raoul deserves much happiness in his life. As do you. Let's not forget, that you also have a past to reconcile with. All who are about to awaken will walk down that same path. Raoul will survive this, I have no doubt whatsoever. He is incredibly strong-minded, and with a mind like his, he's bound to come out kicking and swinging. So don't fret, soon he will be home, and you two will have plenty of time to catch up.”

“Well, I can't imagine you have eaten much today have you?” Toma rubbed his knee. “I've got all your favorites, so let's get you ready to dine. Your Attendants this evening have a wonderful agenda for you young Lord, so if we don't get going-”

“Is that your wonderful meal filling the kitchen with smoke?” Daryl interrupted and pointed over his shoulder.

“Ah! My biscuits are burning!!” Toma jumped up, and ran into the kitchen, as everyone laughed.

“I'm sorry Daryl, don't worry about me too much. I will be alright once this is behind me and Raoul.” Yui smiled sweetly, as Daryl bit his nails.

“Hey, hey! Let's have none of that you!” Katze swiped at Daryl's hands. “You have bitten your fingertips raw these past few days, and we'll not have anymore of that do you hear? Or it's over my knee with you!” Katze playfully spanked Daryl a few times, making Daryl yelp.

The group all went to the dining room, and set up the table together. Yui felt better, once they all acted normally again. Though they did all wait on him to begin to eat. Some things just never change.

*~*~*

Jupiter hummed erratically, as she attempted to communicate with the Sentinel's Chariot. Ever since Lady Erin nearly destroyed her room, she has bounced her signal off the many satellites in bordering territories, with no success. She placed a call to Lord Hector Stone as soon as Erin was stabilized, and awaited his arrival. She knew he had spent the afternoon with Yui, and did not want to interfere once again.

The silence of the stars never sounded to worrisome, as each message was returned to her with no sign of being acknowledged. As she ran a diagnostic on her system, Lord Stone arrived. He was rather winded as the day's events had him running back and forth the whole day. As he entered, he bowed slightly, and made for Iason's chair.

“Hector, I have not been able to reach the Sentinel's Chariot since Lady Erin's nightmare destroyed her room! I am worried that something has happened, or they are deliberately being cut off from my signal.”

“Well, is it possible that they are just out of reach? They are traveling through the Path of the Ancients, and you and I both know that region of space is notoriously difficult to maneuver. This is especially true if they have passed through a wormhole.” Hector reasoned.

“Yes, yes, I know that, but they would have triggered a beacon upon crossing any active wormhole. I show them entering the path at beacon 942 outside of Rhea, however, now they seem to have gone off the grid.”

Jupiter paced back and forth, she wanted to warn Riki of Lady Erin's dream, and have him be on his guard. But without the ability to communicate, she was helpless. At least until they surfaced somewhere, when they triggered yet another wormhole. Hector could see that Jupiter was clearly upset. Perhaps there was more to this than just her worry for Lady Erin.

“Jupiter, what is it that has you so worried? Lady Erin was more likely recalling a past dream, in her newly awakened mind. It was so when we all witnessed her awakening. She searched for Riki, and felt lost without him.”

“Perhaps, but I did not witness the event. I can only process what data I can compile. Lady Erin has a history, ancient or not, that points to a lineage that comprised of empathic women. She was hand picked by Lord Kai's mother, the Lady Valmonne, because she was a perfect match for a then Prince Kai Oskuro. Although, he himself was a minor empath, but would prove to sire an exceptional Warrior Lord with empathic abilities. This data is further supported by Lord Kai's lineage, which also points to an empathic line of Warriors.”

“Yes, Jupiter, I am well aware of their history. But do you really think Lady Erin was seeing something ahead of Prince Riki?” Hector seemed to now become just as worried, when Jupiter began to spout out reference after historical reference of the Oskuro family tree.

“Lord Kai Oskuro would not grow up to become a strong empath, but a young Prince Riki was showing signs of his abilities as a mere child.” Jupiter once again attempted to send her signal off the satellites, with no success.

“Do you think we can attempt another connection via the mineral oils?”

“No. That requires a strong empath, and Lady Erin is in no condition to attempt such a link. Not only that, she does not share the connection that Iason and Riki have. She would be broadcasting out into space with no point of reference to land on. If I can send another encrypted message, perhaps we will be fortunate enough to find them.”

“Just how many attempts have you made?”

“Since Lady Erin's episode, three attempts.”

“Three?” Hector repeated, “Jupiter, what will you do now?”

Jupiter hummed along, as she continued to process. “There is nothing more to do. I can only hope that they have arrived on Le Fidelis by now. Lady Erin's physical and psychological readouts, do not point to a false reading in her statements. I have to believe they are as real as she makes them out to be.”

“Then we'll ready a ship, perhaps we can stretch out your signal into the path of the ancients. I know we have the beacons in which we can access in order to determine their path.”

“That would also send a message to any ship within range. I can't allow that. No. For now we will have to wait and see where they surface. With all the activity on Rhea these past two days, I do not want to add to the chatter with regards to our awakened Queen. Let them all continue to think there is a literal treasure.” Jupiter now stopped her pacing, and changed the subject. “How does our young Master Yui fare?”

“Oh, he is being quite brave, that one. He sat patiently listening to his past, via the archives and Sir Earl's historical, albeit, unrehearsed lesson. He was overwhelmed, as expected, but seems to be determined to learn all he can, in order to help Lord Raoul. He will be joining Lady Erin each day for a few hours. That is- if you think she will be capable of being awake?”

“Yes, I think she will be well enough to continue. She may be able to communicate better with the company of young Yui at her side. I will continue to monitor her via stealth-mode, and I have erected a shield over her new room.”

“Very well. I see Lady Yuri is near completion. Do we have an approximate date when she will be removed from the reanimation chamber?”

“Lady Yuri will more than likely remain sleeping through the end of her reanimation. Her mind is quite fragile, and I dare not awaken her without Riki present. There is no one with his or Iason's ability to reach her at a subconscious level.”

“Then we'll wait. While we're all eager for her presence, I know it will ease her awakening with Lord Raimen in her presence.”

“Yes-” Jupiter suddenly became silent.

“Jupiter?” Hector sat up in his chair.

“I have just picked up beacon 1182.”

“I didn't know they went that high.”

“Beacons above 1000 are ancient technology. The Path of the Ancients currently hold only 850 active beacons in my system. We've only added the last 30 in the past century, anything above 850 was sealed off by Lord Kai's era. I'm certain only he has the access to those portals.”

“Well then that is good news! Perhaps we can contact them now?”

“No. They are too far into the path. Beacon 1182 is truly ancient, nearly seven light years away. I won't be able to monitor them after this portal is closed. I was only able to receive their faint signal with my satellites.”

“I guess, all we can do now, is wait.” Hector spoke. “If you will excuse me Jupiter, I will retire. I will have Master Yui visit with Lady Erin in the morning.”

Hector bowed, and left Jupiter's chambers. She appeared in stealth-mode before Erin's bed. Her new room was adorned with beautiful flowers, and soft lighting. There were two tastefully upholstered high back chairs, a small table and matching area rug . She noticed the medical staff had changed her linen to a more suitable collection. One fit for a Queen. Her monitors beeped softly, and her vitals were good. Jupiter hoped that with the new sunrise, Lady Erin's presence would grace Amoi once more.

*~*~*

Thanx for reading my little story! I hope you enjoyed it. Please give a review.