A moment later a quartet of Kalaidians carried a stretcher with Brian lying still. Seles ran to it.
“Brian! Are you alright!?” she reached out and touched his unconscious body.
Celi placed a hand on her shoulder. “He’ll be alright once we get back to the ship Seles.”
“I want to stay with him, okay?” Seles said.
Celi glanced at Brian, then Seles. “Just don’t get in the way, alright?”
“Of course,” Seles said as they boarded a shuttle.
* * *
Seles stood outside Valis’s quarters and waited. Exhaustion filled her eyes as she stared at the floor. The door opened.
“Come in,” Valis said, smiling.
“Thanks,” Seles said as they entered the room. After the door closed the two embraced with tears in their eyes.
“I’m glad you’re okay,” Valis said. “I was really worried about you.”
“I know, I feel the same,” Seles said. “When we crashed I didn’t know if the Avoni had survived.”
“Let’s be happy everything turned out for the best,” Valis said.
“You’ve always been like my big sister,” Seles said.
Valis pulled away to compose herself. “I hate spoiling the moment, but I need you to explain everything that happened during those twelve days. What species is he?”
“His name is Brian,” she answered. “He claims to be from Terra Prime.”
“He’s really a Terran?” Valis asked.
“Yes. At least, that’s what he says,” Seles said.
“His people aren’t supposed to be wandering the stars for several centuries. How is this possible?”
“He was taken by the Greys against his will,” Seles said. “He told me they’d experimented on him for years. As for his people, Brian told me Terrans have the ability to explore their own solar system but are still unable to travel between star systems.”
“What kind of a person is he?”
“Every time I thought I was going to die, he’d simply smile and tell me that wasn’t an option,” Seles cleared her throat and tried to emulate Brian’s voice: “No matter what it takes, I’m going to get you off this cold rock.” He kept saying that to me Valis, and here I am, still alive after all we went through.”
“He does sound different from the Terrans we’ve been told about,” Valis said as she turned on her video monitor. “Before you left the shuttle, did you check for anything?”
“You mean the escape shuttle?” Seles asked.
“Did you check it before you came outside?”
“No.” Seles looked at Valis. “Should I have checked?”
“Before he left, Brian left you a video message. I’m the only one who’s seen it so far, but I think it’s important that you see it as well Seles,” Valis said as she turned on the video.
Brian appeared in the video: “This might be the last message I ever leave, so let me say what must be said. In our short time together Seles, I learned more than I could’ve ever imagined. I will also tell you the truth behind my people’s strength. We will fight, suffer, and even die for those we love and the ideals we believe in. Only once before in my life did I felt that way, but it was lost to me. But now that’s changed. I have a reason to fight, to live, and to exist. I believe in you Seles. I believe in the future you’re striving for. I believe in the kind heart you’ve shown to me. You gave me hope when I’d lost it. And so, I give the only thing I can to you: my life. It’s the only thing I have to give, and so I wish you happiness in your future. Goodbye Seles, our time together may have lasted only twelve days, but to me, it felt like a lifetime.”
The video ended. Silence filled the room. Seles and Valis embraced again.
“I don’t understand Valis. Why would he do such a thing?” she asked.
Valis looked into Seles’s eyes. “Maybe he’s the Herald we’ve been waiting for. For years we’ve prayed to Kali for someone to save us, to save our future. He could be the one.”
“But if he is, he doesn’t know anything about it,” Seles said.
“Even if he isn’t, it doesn’t matter. He’s proven himself. Anyone who’s willing to do what he was will find a place amongst my crew.”
Chapter 13 – Healing Wounds
Brian was unconscious on a bed in the corner of the medical lab. Celi was busy with numerous computers in the room, while Seles sat in a chair next to the bed.
“Did Brian tell you what species he is?” Celi asked. She picked up a medical scanner and started running it over his body.
Seles brushed his beard with her hand. “He’s Terran.”
“I didn’t expect them to look so much like us,” Celi remarked.
“He wishes to join our crew,” Seles said.
Celi finished her scan and input the data into the main computer. “What would he be best at?”
Seles looked up from the sleeping Brian. “He was able to learn our language, history, and technology fairly fast.” She paused in thought for a moment. “I’m not sure to be honest.”
As Seles and Celi talked, Brian started waking up. He heard their voices off in the distance at first, getting closer as he roused. Looking to his left he saw Seles talking to Celi. They both noticed he was awake.
“Are you alright?” Seles asked.
He sat up and touched his shoulder. “My shoulder hurts, but I feel fine otherwise.”
Celi walked over with the scanner again. “I didn’t get a chance to introduce myself before. I’m Celi, the chief medical officer.”
“Call me Brian. It’s good to see you Celi,” he said. He looked around the room inquisitively. “How long have I been unconscious?”
Celi put the scanner on the desk next to the bed. “Three days. Your injuries should be healed within a few more.” She looked at both Brian and Seles. “I need to see the captain now that you’re awake. She’s interested in meeting you as soon as possible.”
She left the medical lab while Seles stayed with him. “It’s good to see you awake for once.”
“I didn’t know if I’d come back alive,” he said, scratching his head.
She hugged him. “Thank you.”
He closed his eyes and enjoyed her warm embrace. Shaking his head, Brian gently pushed her gaze to his. “I only did what I had to.”
“I know,” she said. The two gazed into each other’s eyes, searching for more to say. Both blushed. Seles pulled away a moment later.
“She seemed quite interested in me,” he said in an attempt to change the subject.
Seles shook the red away. “I think it’s because you’re male with a genetic makeup similar to ours. Celi’s probably thinking she could use you as a template for creating Kalaidian males.”
“Why?” he asked.
Seles stood up and started pacing around the room. “Remember what you read earlier Brian. All samples of male Kalaidians were confiscated a hundred and forty years ago and destroyed immediately.”
“It doesn’t make sense. Why would your people do such a thing?” Brian asked.
“Because it was an order from Kali,” Valis said as she entered the room. She looked at Seles and smiled. “I need to speak with him alone Seles. Could you come back in a little while?”
“I’ll be back later,” Seles said. She smiled at Brian before leaving the room.
Valis walked over to him. “Can you stand?”
“Sure.” He stood up. She circled around him slowly.
“You’re much more impressive in person.” She paused and stared at his face. “What’s this?” She ran her hand over his beard.
“It’s called facial hair. Males among my people often grow it,” he said.
Valis took her hand away. “We have no records of what our men looked like. By order of the Queen one hundred and forty years ago, all records and images were destroyed.”
“Why would the Queen go that far?”
“It’s a mystery, isn’t it? No one knows why, unless you believe in the word of K
ali,” she said.
He shook his head in disbelief. “There are some on Earth with similar beliefs, unquestioning and uncompromising in their faith.”
“Sounds interesting,” she said, checking a console nearby. “Tell me, what are you planning to do?
“Seles already explained why I won’t be allowed to go back to Earth. I have nowhere to go, so I’d like to join your crew.”
Valis held her chin. “I think you’ll do well. Not many can claim victory over a Grey vessel. That’s not even taking into account the mercenaries you killed. Your potential is high, but right now, you’re rough around the edges. Before we get into the details, I’d like to ask you some questions.”
“Go ahead, what do want to know?”
Valis turned to the console next to her and displayed the Book of Kali on the monitor. She moved to the pages including details of the Teacher. “Brian, are you the Herald?”
He read the text:
On the seventh day of the third month, a stranger appeared from the sky. He rode upon a ship of light and came to us with open arms. The Teacher looked of our own, but taller with rounded ears. He spoke of peace and unity and told us one day he would return.
“That’s interesting,” he said, skimming through a few pages. “No, I know nothing about this. But the description matches my people fairly close.”
“Then you don‘t admit to being the Herald, do you Brian?” she asked.
Brian shrugged, “Not that I know of. I have no idea who this Teacher is, let alone the Herald. How long ago did this occur?”
Valis turned away from the text. “The Sixth Book of Kali was composed over several centuries about two thousand years ago. I wanted to know if you had something to add.”
“I wish I could help you, but I don’t know anything. Could I keep a copy to read over?”
Valis saved the text to the computer. “The Sixth Book of Kali is saved for you. Now, onto business,” Valis paced around him again. “Ten years.”
“Ten years?” Brian asked.
“I’m asking for ten years of servitude onboard this ship. It’s Kalaidian tradition for an officer to serve a ten year term. Afterwards, they’re free to do what they wish.”
“Ten years is a long time,” he couldn’t help but look surprised. “What position would I have?”
“Whatever you wish Brian. All I ask is for you to serve under me for ten years.” Valis smiled. “Also, the Malcovin drop ship we recovered is your property, as you defeated them.”
“What am I supposed to do with it?”
“What you do with the ship is your decision, but I suggest you keep it. It isn’t equipped for interstellar travel, but it has all the weapons and shielding systems to be adjusted to such a craft. We’re storing the ship in cargo bay three for now. Also, I’m going to have to restrict your access on this ship for a time being.”
“That’s understandable.” He paused, lost in thought. “By the way, how should I address you?
“You can call me Captain or Valis,” she said. “How should I address you?”
“Brian.”
* * *
Daes waited in the captain’s chambers with a small data crystal in hand. She paced in the study room, excited when Valis entered the room.
“Daes, what is it you have to show me?” Valis asked. She sat down at her desk.
“I have something very interesting to show you captain.” She placed the data crystal into the slot below the monitor. The video was a recording from the Malcovin drop ship. It showed Brian killing their leader. She froze the video and focused on Brian’s face, revealing his glowing eyes.
“His eyes…” Valis trailed off. “Is he able to berserk?
“That’s what it looks like captain. Only the Rakna Maigars amongst our people were capable of it.” Daes stared at the frozen image of Brian. “This shows how close to being one of us he really is.”
Valis stood up and looked at the image closely, turning to Daes. “Tell no one about this.”
“Even Brian?” she asked.
“Especially him,” Valis said, turning back to the picture.
“There’s one more thing captain.”
“What?” Valis asked, still staring at the monitor.
Daes produced a different shaped data crystal and handed it to Valis. “This was stuffed inside one of Brian’s pockets. It’s a Malcovin data crystal. There’s something on this I have to show you.”
“What is it?” Valis asked.
“The future of warfare,” she answered.
Chapter 14 – Brian’s Decision
The Avoni’s mess hall was a large open room lined with tables, benches, and a buffet area serving every kind of fruit, vegetable, and nut native to Kalaidia Prime. About fifty crew members filled the place. They ate and talked about the main topic of the ship, Brian. The conversation was led by the lovely Mira, a Kalaidian with long pink hair and deep blue eyes. As she and her companions spoke, Seles walked into the room.
“Is it true Seles was stranded with the Terran for twelve days?” asked Jesela, a Kalaidian with shoulder length lime green hair and golden eyes.
Mira smiled, happy to sound the facts. “That’s the truth. Lady Seles spent twelve days with him. He fought off a squadron of Malcovin mercenaries to save her.”
“Why would he do that?” Jesela asked.
Mira smiled and looked at Seles while she filled her food tray. “Why don’t we ask the Lady herself why?”
Seles looked around and noticed the other crew members were avoiding her. Nothing ever changes. She thought as she sighed and shook her head. She found an empty table in the corner. Sitting down to enjoy her meal, Mira and Jesela came over to join her, while a few others shadowed a table nearby.
“Do you mind if we join you Lady Seles?” Mira asked.
Seles looked up and sighed again. “Sure, but I have one condition. Please drop the Lady when talking to me. Onboard this ship, I’m an ensign like most of you, not a noble.”
Mira and Jesela looked at each other and nodded in agreement.
Mira sat down and edged close to Seles. “Okay Seles. The crew’s interested in the alien in the medical lab. I’ve seen Brian through the window, but Celi won’t let me get a closer look.”
Seles waved her hand. “Well, you know Celi. She finds something interesting and she doesn’t like sharing. In due time he’ll be about the ship, you can see him then.”
Jesela sat down opposite of Mira to pin Seles down.
“By the use of the word “him” I take it Brian’s male?” Mira asked.
“Yes,” Seles answered.
“Is he dangerous?” Jesela asked.
Seles smiled while looking for a way out. “He’s really a good person. He only acts violent when he’s forced to.”
“Is it true he’s Terran?” Mira asked.
“Yes, but unlike what we’ve been told, he’s not a warmongering brute,” Seles said.
“What’s he like?” Mira asked.
Seles forced a smile on her face, knowing there was no way out of this. “He’s really warm.”
* * *
Brian sat in the medical lab reading intently.
“You seem really interested in that book,” Celi said as she entered the room.
He pushed away the monitor and stretched. “I’ve read through most of the books of Kali. It’s an interesting system.”
She walked over to him with a scanner in hand. “What do you mean?”
“It’s a complex system designed to keep the rule of the nobles above all else. The dogma emphasizes the nobility’s divine right of rulership,” he answered, yawning afterwards.
Celi smiled. “I’ll leave the writings of Kali to the nobles and priestesses. I prefer real things, not prayer and spirits.”
Brian laughed. “I feel the same. Back on Earth, I cared little for religious subjects. To me, religion was a way to make excuses and control others. I’d rather live in the real world; one where when I mess up it’s my ch
oice, not some god.”
“We have that in common Brian. Five years ago, when the Avoni left the Kalaidian Space Forces, I joined Valis because she spoke of destiny in a different way. Back home, we’re taught from a very young age our lives are determined by stars we’re born under, our constellation at birth. Kali directs everything.”
“It sounds like superstitious nonsense to me,” he said.
“That’s not all there is to it. Other than nobles, none of us are given a last name. We have our given name and that of the constellation we are born under. For example, I’m Celi of the Water Serpent,” she explained.
“My constellation on Earth is Aquarius, the Water bearer. Is that how it works?” he asked.
“Yes, but using our naming system you should use the constellation from Kalaidia Prime.” Celi paused. “Terra Prime is located in the heart of the Great Dragon. Your name should be Brian of the Great Dragon.”
“I kind of like that name,” he said.
Celi shook her head. “I wouldn’t suggest you using it in public. The Great Dragon is a special constellation, one signifying power and fear.”
“From what you and Seles have told me I feel like my people are getting a bad reputation without anyone really knowing us,” he said.
She switched her flat scanner for one resembling a small baton. “It’s against interstellar law to visit an undeveloped planet. We can’t even come within a hundred light years of Terra Prime, or we’d suffer severe punishment.”
“Why a hundred light years?” he asked.
She moved the scanner around him. “Your people attained the use of radio technology about a century ago, right?”
He thought for a moment. “Why isn’t the Confederation letting anyone hear radio signals from Earth?”
Celi moved behind Brian, still scanning. “I’m not sure. Usually it’s prudent to hear the cultural development and advancement of technology from less developed worlds, but Terra Prime is a special case.”
Heaven Saga 1: The Lost Hero Page 7
