Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian

by Jenn Nixon

  Tiva glanced out the window to see Harai standing outside the gated area. The craft picked up off the ground and Harai began to wave. Tiva raised her hand to the glass and nodded. Harai smiled and wiped a tear from her cheek. The craft rose higher and entered the upper atmosphere. The young girl happily continued to wave. Tiva watched as her friend, the houses, and buildings grew smaller and smaller. She felt the profound sadness envelope her as the ship broke orbit from Uucor.

  Now among the stars, Tiva sighed and leaned back in her chair. She overheard the Ambassador call for warp speed. She gazed out the window and the stars seemed to blur.

  Leaving behind her new friends and her old life, Tiva felt the weight of her situation. Her thoughts strayed to the men who attacked her and the Raku’s, and as she touched the cuts on her hands, she felt slightly proud at herself for retaining control. The way she reacted at the time, she may have killed each man without a second thought, but that was something she did not need the Raku’s to see.

  She pulled out the recorder given to her, and wondered how many more bounty hunters were searching. Her picture on the screen with the word “Wanted” in many different languages including her own written underneath. The image was from a few cycles back, she was in her guardian uniform, her hair slightly shorter. Only someone who had access to the records in Kinchar had this image of her. Someone had taken over control of the palace. Tiva’s markings darkened, thinking about a Rebel thug in power.

  She let out an agitated grunt, closed her eyes, and wish it all were a bad dream. Sadly, it wasn’t. She prayed that being on the opposite side of the galaxy was far enough away to deter the Rebels from their pursuit and allow her to go on with her life far away from Abennelp. Tiva glanced back toward Uucor, which was far off in the distance now, glad that her friends were safe. Within the confines of the Union, she’d be protected, yet the uncertainty of her future scared her. She was alone, unaccustomed to space travel, and was the only person of her kind within the Union.

  Someone wanted to find her. The question of who plagued her most of the journey to the Base. She used the two days to relax and read more about the organization. When restlessness took her, she asked the Captains if she could watch from the main cabin.

  The view was amazing. Only dimly lit streaks of stars crossed her path, still, it was like nothing she had ever seen before. Dival was kind to her, and explained how the transport systems worked, and offered her a tour of the entire craft.

  Perplexed at the various alien technologies, she was glad the Ambassador and his men had heard of her altercation with the hunters at Major Raku’s residence. Knowing her skills, along with her high marks in combat, was enough to ensure her a post within some type of security section.

  Before returning to her seat to rest, she studied the transport ship’s schematics, and even took control for a while. It was much like driving a super fast hovercraft, and though thrilling, she would rather remain safe in the hands of experts than fly herself.

  Back in the main cabin, she drifted off to sleep lulled by the hum of the engines and vibration of space around her.

  Chapter Twenty Three

  Tiva noticed a change in the speed of the craft and glanced out the small side window. Dival entered the cabin. “We have entered Xatlo galaxy where the Union space station is located. It’ll be several hours before docking.”

  She delved into the database to review everything she had read. Xatlonia was the first planet to travel to other galaxies looking for life. Over the last one hundred and fifty standard years, twenty-two planets from five galaxies joined the Union. Xatlo and Arillo galaxies, the founders of the Union, each had several planetary systems involved. Qwall had the most with eight planets, including Bayo, and both the Milky Way and Cobee galaxies had one each, a planet called Earth, and now Uucor.

  Abennelp, listed in the Union database under ‘consideration,’ did not seem to be a priority, regardless of her new standing within the group. The Union’s first rule was not to interfere with warring planets. Her people did not explore the stars and it was quite a young planet in general, which was another factor.

  Tiva scrolled through the list of Union members. She knew remembering all the different galaxies, planets, and races of people would take time, but she realized all she had now was time. With no calling to fulfill, no duty to perform, she was just passing time until she found or chose another path. Surely, the Union would provide her safety and teach her about the universe, but she didn’t want to live on a ship for the rest of her life.

  “Are you ready to start your new adventure, Tiva Boon?” a voice from behind asked.

  One of the Dival’s captains fidgeting with a handheld weapon. He was the same height, yet stockier then most. “Yes, I am ready. Will I be joining your ship, captain…”

  “Locke, and no, I believe you are needed on the Tolox. Your scores have garnered you a senior position, I only have openings for junior grade. Dival believes your security background and fighting skills are best served under Captain Maar.”

  “Trevo Maar from Oninus, a dying planet of warriors in the Qwall galaxy?”

  “You are a quick study, Ms. Boon.” He paused and rubbed his puffy cheeks. “Yes, that would be him. He has a rather eclectic group of men and women on his ship, I have no doubts you’ll enjoy the challenge, though, watch out for Gigs, she’s a bit odd.”

  “Gigs?”

  “The Tolox’s artificial intelligence hologram. She’s a super smart pain in the ass.”

  “A talking virtual projection?” Tiva said in surprise as Locke pointed to the small display next to his seat. It showed a female form with dark hair, soft pink skin, and dark gray eyes.

  “A bit more than that, but in essence, yes.” He chuckled. “Don’t worry, she takes well to people, and she’s full of helpful information.”

  “Thank you for the advice, captain.” She lowered her head slightly.

  “Any time,” he said, grinning from ear to ear. “Well, it looks like we’re ready to dock. If you’ll follow me, I’ll give you a tour of the Base, and introduce you to Trevo.” He stood and motioned to the back of the vessel.

  Tiva gawked at the view outside the port window. Amazing, she thought as she gathered her belongings. Larger than any manufactured object she had ever seen, the space station was easily half the size of Abennelp. Three large silver saucers connected by several pillar type contraptions floated in space as if anchored there by the stars. The design itself was sleek and efficient, but it was not how she imagined.

  The transport locked into place with a slight jerk, and the doors immediately opened when Locke moved to the exit. She followed him inside, and surveyed her new surroundings. The corridor was dim, cold, and uninviting. Wall displays of computer terminals and portholes decorated the metal walkway. The carpeted floor saved the vibrations caused by those walking by from echoing loudly, though it seemed impossible for someone to sneak and keep silent.

  Locke moved to the end of the hall and stepped into a lift. It was the complete opposite of the beautiful glass lift in the Palace of Kinchar. It was dark and dank, and shook when she entered. Bracing herself against the wall, Tiva gripped the railing and glanced at the panel as it lit up after the doors closed. Captain Locke tapped for the level and stepped back.

  “I’ll take you to the control center first then show you the main layout of the station. You probably won’t spend much time here, except between assignments and ship refits.”

  She responded with a nod, and again followed when the lift slowed, opened, and Locke walked out.

  The control center was even more comforting. It resembled the cockpit of the transport on a larger scale without the navigation section. Brightly lit consoles and panels filled the triangular room. Tiva noticed a few new races of aliens she had not seen earlier, one sitting at a scientific console, the other at the operations section. As they moved to the middle of the room, a very tall, thin, orange-skinned man stood up and exchanged handshakes with Locke.
His appearance allowed her to know immediately that he was from the Arillo galaxy, though she was unsure which planet.

  “Commodore Qafin, may I present Tiva Boon of Abennelp, our newest member to the Vexillum.” Locke beamed proudly.

  The man extended his hand to her, and she gripped it.

  “Quite a hand shake you have, young lady. Welcome to Ovvella Base.”

  “Thank you.”

  “I understand you are heading out on the Tolox. Dival himself recommended you, and Captain Maar is not a fool to turn down such an offer.”

  “I am honored to serve wherever needed, sir.”

  Qafin grinned and slapped Locke on the shoulder. “That’s the spirit! We need more people like you. Abennelp, you say? I don’t believe I’ve heard of it…”

  “I am the only one from my planet in your Union, sir. My home is currently in a state of war, I do not believe you will see others any time soon.”

  “Hmm, that’s unfortunate; you seem a bright and honorable people.”

  “Thank you, sir.” Tiva bowed her head and placed her fist on her heart. She cringed inwardly, getting used to the customs of the other races was going to be difficult. If she continued her old traditions, she felt like she’d never fit in. Yet, surprisingly when she looked up, the Commodore returned the gesture with a smile.

  “I hope you accomplish all that you’ve set out to do, Tiva of Abennelp. Pleasant journeys to you.”

  Locke continued the tour, showing Tiva the more populated and used areas through several levels, various lounges, quarters, labs, and meeting rooms and then he showed her engineering, medical, and finally security.

  “Most of our ships have similar internal technology. We’ve integrated several different types of ships from all over the universe. You’ll find everything is in the standard trade language or general as many call it, so you shouldn’t have any problems there. The Tolox is one of our expedition cruisers. It’s powerful, sturdy, and is used for long operations.” He tapped on the security console and brought up a real time image of the ship docking. “Oh, it seems they’ve arrived. Dival has already informed Captain Maar of your assignment, so if you wish to get settled on the ship, I can take you there.”

  “Thank you, sir.”

  He laughed. “You don’t have to ‘sir’ me, save that for your captain.” Locke exited the room and guided Tiva through the lower half of the Base to the docking ring. The Tolox came into view as they stepped off the lift to a sleek corridor with large glass windows. Standing at the end of the docking deck was a very large, dark skinned man, with stark white hair. He had odd oval shaped markings on his temples and cheeks and dark piercing brown eyes. Next to him was a smaller, pale man with flaxen hair and green eyes.

  “Captain Trevo Maar and his crew commander Jay Hill, this is Tiva Boon.” Locke smiled and motioned to her. Both men grinned at her. Maar’s hard smile was slightly intimidating, but Hill’s warm features caught her attention. She dipped her head some, then shook both their hands.

  “An honor to meet you,” she said.

  “Dival hasn’t stopped talking about his trip to Uucor and the wonderful new recruits the Vexillum was lucky enough to get,” Hill stated evenly. “From what he’s told us, you’ll fit like a glove.”

  “Pardon, sir?” Tiva said with a raised brow.

  “Oh, um…” He chuckled. “It’s a human expression, means you should find yourself comfortable among us.”

  “I’ve yet to understand all your human puns and sarcasm, Hill…one day you will say the wrong thing to the wrong person and find yourself at the wrong end of a plasma gun.” Captain Maar snarled lightly. “It will take time to adapt, Ms. Boon, but I assure you the Tolox has the finest crew in the fleet.”

  Locke coughed and glanced over at the two. “Second finest crew…”

  “Yes, of course, sir.” Maar smirked.

  “I will leave you to your journey then, Captain. Take care, Ms. Boon, I hope to see you again soon.”

  “Likewise, sir. Keep safe,” she said and watched him walk away. When he vanished behind the doors of the lift, she returned her attention to the captain. He handed her a datarecorder, a thin plastic card, and a small round device with a strap. “Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome. The recorder has the ship code of ethics, the Vexillum standard operating procedures, and our ranking structure. Make sure you study and memorize them. That…” He pointed to the card. “Will procure you three standard uniforms from the commissary, and the communications device can be worn around your wrist. We are departing in two hours. That should give you time to get your belongings and settle in…”

  “I do not have any other supplies, sir.” She held up her small bag.

  “Then you’ll have plenty of time to relax before we head out.” He grinned again. “Hill, escort her to the commissary, then show Ms. Boon around the ship then bring her up to the command center.”

  “Aye, Captain.” Hill saluted by putting his hand to his forehead, and Maar returned to the ship. “I will take you to get your uniform…have you eaten today?”

  “Yes, sir. Dival provided us with food before we docked.”

  “Good, good. So, Tiva Boon, I’ve read the data on your history, it seems very colorful to say the least. Your planet is at war currently?”

  “Yes, it is.”

  “Shame…I’ve seen many wars myself both on my home planet, Earth, and on alien worlds. War is sometimes needed, but never wanted.”

  “When people learn true acceptance and love, war will be unnecessary.” She repeated her uncle’s words and followed Hill to the main level.

  “Wise words, indeed. I will leave you to gather what you need.”

  Tiva nodded, entered the area, and marveled at the mass of people. Aliens of all sizes and skin tones rushed past each other going about their business. Hill gestured to the commissary, then hurried out before she protested. She stood for a moment taking in the scene. Contemplating lowering her mental shield to gather a sense of the population, Tiva decided against it and moved toward the shop.

  Someone gripped her arm. Without thinking, she drew her Timbur from her belt, attached it, and a split second later the prongs of her claw were under the chin of a bald man.

  “Whoa, hey there chick…” he said, releasing his hold and backing away. “Ya looked lost, I was only tryin’ to help.”

  “I require no assistance,” Tiva said, and replaced her weapon. She noticed a few people stopped to watch, but when she met eyes with them, they rushed away looking frightened. Her markings had changed. She felt them lightening as she turned and entered the shop. The bald man followed, but this time he did not touch.

  “Sorry if’n I scared ya.”

  “You did not,” Tiva said.

  “Most people don’t pull weapons because they was grabbed.”

  “I am not most people.”

  He said, “Can we start again?” He jumped in front of her and extended his hand. His crooked smile and warm inviting eyes did not seem to match his deep drawl or demeanor “Jimmi B’abot, I’m the weapons specialist on the Tolox.”

  Tiva paused and awkwardly shook his hand. “Tiva Boon.”

  “Much better. So, pretty lady, what ya doin’ here at the commissary?”

  “I am picking up uniforms before I depart.”

  “Which ship?”

  “The Tolox.”

  He grinned. “Hoot! Ya must be the security chick they was talkin’ ‘bout.”

  “Apparently,” she said, handing the card over to the clerk. He handed her a sheet of paper that asked for measurements. Tiva stared for a moment, unsure what to register, and looked up to find the clerk gone.

  “Somethin’ wrong?” B’abot said as he leaned against the counter, still grinning at her.

  “I do not know what size to choose from this chart.”

  “Ya look about a solid seven, but if ya want yer clothes to fit loose, pick a nine.”

  “Loose fitting clothing is apt to get caught
during battle. I will take the seven.”

  Jimmi chuckled and watched her fill out the form. When the clerk returned, he offered to take measurements, and seeing it as her chance to get away from the bald man, Tiva agreed.

  She stepped out of the shop and smoothed the tight fitting uniform along her sides. Preferring the one-piece gray and blue jumpsuit with belt, she purchased two. The third a two—piece dress uniform of the same color fit looser and was more comfortable. Exiting the shop, she heard a strange high-pitched noise coming from the opposite side of the promenade. B’abot was bobbing his head, making the noise with his lips, as his gaze moved along her body. Gripping her bag tight, she walked past him heading for the Tolox docking ring.

  “Aww, come on sweet thang, give a man a chance to look at ya.” He ran up alongside.

  “If you value your life, sir, I suggest you refrain from further comments about my appearance. I do not like being ogled.”

  “Why’d those things on yer head keep changin’ color?”

  “They are markings, and they change color with my emotions.” She glared at him and the moons went dark. “That means I am agitated.”

  “Shesh, yer one uptight woman, you need to get some,” he said, mumbled and walked away.

  Had she been in a better mood, she might have asked what she needed to get, but as Hill gave her no other instructions and her free time was dwindling, she made her way back to find him.

  “And now that I’ve given you the grand tour of the Tolox, Captain Maar wishes to see you.” Hill smiled. Tiva nodded and entered the lift. “Oh, before I forget. The Union gives each of us a small living allowance. It allows for amenities and personal items. If you are good at managing money you can save enough by the end of your career to settle down somewhere nice.”

  She cared not for material possessions save the few she left on Abennelp. However, she was glad to hear she’d have some means of support.