Family Values (Chapter Sixteen)

[Freeze]

Chapter One

Heidi was sitting up in her bed breathing heavily and holding her side. The light from Neudaiz moon shown through the slit in the window curtain creating a silver line on the wood floor. Arianna sat silently by the window, still in stand by mode. Heidi looked down at the little bot and smiled softly. She was safe in her new room at the Guardians Neudaiz branch. She had been reassigned to Neudaiz shortly after returning from her deep space adventure aboard the Landeel. The light drive Cerberus had recovered from his old space ship had burned out on the return trip so instead of a few hours it took them almost a month to return to Gurhal. Tylor and the other rogues were immediately put to work on getting the generators set up for the unification point on Moatoob and Jonathan, Heidi's father, had been assigned to help them even against his protests. This left Heidi in charge of locating her mother who had not been seen or heard from since they had left. She tried to take a deep breath and relieve the pain she felt in her ribs. It wasn't a physical pain though. It was mental as the memories of her field operation performed by Iceberg still haunted her. She went into the bathroom and downed a couple pain killers, then crawled back into bed. Even though she knew there was nothing physically wrong with her, Heidi still found the pills made the pain go away. She didn't like using them and most of the time just slept through the pain but some nights it was so bad she had no choice. Morning would arrive soon and she intended to go across the street to the Communion first thing and start searching for her mother. If Light Master Rutsu had done anything to hurt her mother, he would be very sorry. Heidi pulled the covers over her shoulders and drifted back to sleep.

Heidi was awakened by Arianna who continued to jab her arm.

"Ok, ok, I'm up." Heidi groaned.

"Forgive me Mistress Heidi but there is some one at the door." Arianna bowed.

"What?" Heidi frowned climbing out of bed, "What time is it?"

"Six thirty local time." Arianna replied.

Heidi shook her head slowly as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes while she made her way to the door. She tapped the door button harder than it needed. The door slid open to a blonde Newman woman who looked about the same age as Heidi's mother.

"Miss Heidi?" The woman asked.

"Yes." Heidi nodded sleepily.

"Miss Heidi Kimble?" The woman asked again.

"Do I know you?" Heidi frowned.

"No, but my family knows you very well." The woman said, "May I come in?"

"Sure." Heidi shrugged and stepped aside.

The woman quickly pushed passed the girl and slowly looked around the room. Heidi frowned as she eyed the strange woman closely.

"Please forgive the intrusion." The woman said finally, "I didn't know who else to turn to."

"I'm not sure if it's the fact that I'm still half asleep but I don't understand." Heidi frowned.

"Forgive me." The woman bowed, "My daughter has been missing for nearly three months now. The authorities say they have been searching but in those three months they haven't come up with anything. The only thing they could suggest is that she may have been kidnapped. No ransom has been issued and no one on any of the planets has seen her. Yesterday the search was officially called off and she has been considered dead."

"Dead?" Heidi frowned, "That doesn't sound right."

"I know in my heart that she's not dead." The woman said, "Normally our family wouldn't dream of coming to you for help but I don't know what else to do."

"Why wouldn't you come to us for help?" Heidi frowned, "Did we do something to you?'

"You really don't know who I am, do you?" The woman smirked.

Heidi just shook her head. The woman sat down on the window ledge and stared out at the city street.

"You are not the only Kimble family on Neudaiz." The woman said.

"What?" Heidi gasped, "That's impossible."

"Our family traces our blood line back to the aliens just as you do." The woman said, "Our family spawns from Alexander's second born son."

"There has never been a second born in our family." Heidi frowned.

"Alexander was still a full alien, not yet blended with Gurhal DNA." The woman said, "It was this mixing that prevented more than one child to be born in your family. Your family, the chosen line with the great destiny while ours was cast aside. What ever it was that was passed down through your line did not pass to ours. Obsessed with your great quest you shunned our family. Erasing us to the point where you don't even know we exist, but our family never forgot."

"I have family?" Heidi smiled.

"Your cousin is missing." The woman nodded, "We may barely be family now but I am desperate."

"Of course I'll help you." Heidi grinned, "Family is family after all."

"You really don't get it do you?" The woman frowned.

"What's to get?" Heidi shrugged, "I just found out I have a cousin. A whole family I never knew about. The fact that our family name doesn't die with me. This is very exciting."

"I'm glad you're happy." The woman grumbled, "Just find my daughter before it's too late."

She turned and started out the door. Heidi quickly grabbed her by the shoulder.

"Wait, I don't even know what she looks like."

"Well, if you're finished with your own satisfaction then I suppose I could give you the details." The woman grumbled.

"You don't have to be so rude." Heidi frowned.

"This is a picture of Amanda just before she disappeared." The woman said shoving a pad into Heidi's chest, "Just find her and do it quickly."

The woman turned and exited through the door before Heidi could respond. She frowned then looked down at the picture in her hands. The girl looked to be about the same age and other than the blonde hair she looked very much like Heidi.

"She is family." Heidi smiled.

"Excuse me Mistress Heidi." Arianna bowed, "Aren't you supposed to start the search for your mother today?"

"I was." Heidi nodded, "But I get the feeling this is a little more serious. This girl is in real trouble. I doubt the Communion would do any real harm to mom, they just won't tell us where she is."

"I'm confused Miss Heidi." Arianna frowned, "Is a cousin more important than a mother?"

"No." Heidi shook her head, "But she might be in a more dangerous situation."

Heidi looked down at the little bot for a moment as she pondered the situation. She clenched her fist and nodded.

"I need to talk to somebody." She said, "I just hope he's still on the colony."

[Seth Astra]

My reaction upon seeing this thread was one of great joy. I have not been this excited in quite some time. You're off to a great start, and I cannot wait to see where it goes from here.

[Freeze]

Thanks Seth I'll try not to disappoint.

CHAPTER TWO

Just as she expected, Heidi found her big Guntecher friend at the local Clyez City Pub. The Rustic Ruin was a favourite gathering place for many off duty Guardians and Iceberg was no exception. Heidi found it strange that the big man was here with out his partner, Isis. The tall slender beast woman was very rarely not at his side especially since returning to Gurhal. The bar was decorated up to resemble an ancient jungle ruin. Everything from the fake stone tables, to the torch lamps, and the green vines crawling down the walls tried to create the intended atmosphere. Heidi thought it might work better if the place didn't reek of alcohol and vomit. She sighed as she stepped inside allowing the door to close behind her. No one bothered to give the newcomer so much as a glance. A shiver ran down Heidi's back as a sense of despair washed over her. She shook it off as she slowly weaved around the tables. She stopped beside Iceberg's chair and stared down at him.

"What do you want?" He asked not bothering to look up.

"I need your advice." She said sliding into the chair across from her.

"About what?" He grumbled.

"Hey!" The bartender called pointing at Heidi, "No children allowed in here!"

"I'm not a child!" Heidi protested jumping from her seat, "I am twenty three and I have every right to be in here!"

"No children look a likes then." The bartender replied, "If you look like a kid I don't want you here."

Two large beast men slid from their chairs and stood by the bar obviously ready for a fight, even if it meant fighting a Newman woman half their size.

"Fine, I'll be just a minute then I'll leave." Heidi waved her hand.

"No, you will leave now." The bartender said.

The two beast men started for her. Iceberg continued to stare into his mug. Heidi took up a defensive stance.

"Look guys, I didn't come here for a fight." Heidi said, "I just need to talk to my friend."

"It's not personal." One beast said, "We just don't like your kind here."

"Maybe it is personal." The other chuckled.

"What kind might that be?" Heidi growled.

"A Newman woman who thinks she's a warrior." The beast man growled, "I know you."

"Wartecher." His friend spat, "You don't deserve to be called war anything. Go back to playing with your little wands."

"More Wartecher hate." Heidi growled, "What is with this growing trend."

"Oh, we don't hate Wartechers." The beast man shrugged.

"We just hate weakling little girls pretending to be Wartechers." His friend spat, "Or any other kind of fighter."

Iceberg chuckled softly but remained in his seat. The beast men pushed a couple tables over as they approached Heidi.

"Um, are you going to help?" Heidi muttered to Iceberg.

He said nothing and took a sip from his drink.

"Oh great." Heidi growled.

The lead beast took a swing at Heidi. She easily deflected it and returned a shot of her own straight into the beast man's gut. He stumbled back more from the shock of being attacked than the actual impact. His friend immediately jumped in and tried to grab her. She dropped to the floor out of his grasp and drove the heal of her boot into his groin. The man dropped like a rock. She quickly jumped to her feet and readied for the instant attack from the first beast. He swung with a one two jab that she easily blocked. This just made him angrier and attack faster. She blocked each swing then drove one of her own into the side of her face. A small trickle of blood ran from the man's nose. He wiped it away with a chuckle.

"So you've got spirit. I'm going to really enjoy this."

"Are you going to attack me or shall we just continue this dance." Heidi waved him forward.

"I am going to break every bone in your body little one." The beast said.

He threw a straight line punch that Heidi easily dodged but this brought her inline for his second swing that she took right in the ribs. The sheer power of the impact sent her falling back. The beast tried to kick her but she rolled away springing to her feet gasping to regain her breath.

"Not as tough as we pretended?" The beast man smirked.

"Don't kid yourself." Heidi grinned, "I've been hit a lot harder than that. Now are you going to hit me or are you afraid of a little girl?"

"Why you little…" The beast charged forward.

Heidi swung her leg up driving her boot hard into the man's chest knocking him back. She jumped forward landing two punches square to the man's face. Even though she was half his size she managed to drive him back. On her third punch he grabbed her fist then drove his into her face knocking her to the ground. She tried to drive her boot into his stomach but he grabbed it and lifted her off the ground.

"I am growing really tired of this little one." He sighed.

"Me too." Heidi growled and slammed her forehead into his gut.

He dropped her to the ground as he keeled over. She leaped to her feet and drove her knee into his head. This forced him to stand up straight only to receive a fist square to the nose. Heidi felt the cartilage break as her fist landed. The beast man dropped to the floor. He friend slowly stood up still holding his groin. He took one look at the girl and limped away. The bartender just looked down at the glass he was cleaning. Heidi heard a single pair of hands clapping behind her. She turned around to see Iceberg smiling up at her and slowly clapping his hands. Heidi frowned at him as she wiped the blood from her nose.

"I knew you could handle those too thugs." He said.

"Aren't you supposed to help your friends?" Heidi frowned.

"Helping you wouldn't have helped you." Iceberg replied.

"Huh?" She frowned taking a seat.

"You just proved yourself and earned the respect of everyone in this bar." Iceberg said, "No one will ever ask you to leave ever again. I am proud of you."

"That is the nicest thing you've ever said to me." Heidi beamed.

"What is it you need?" Iceberg frowned.

Heidi quickly explained the encounter with the strange woman and about her cousin and the situation with her mother. Iceberg absorbed the information then nodded when Heidi finished.

"So, what do I do?" Heidi shrugged.

"If your cousin has been kidnapped by rogues then that is the immediate situation." Iceberg said, "We know your mother is with the Communion so I can't see her being in any real threat. I would go after your cousin before it's too late, if it isn't already."

"Thanks Iceberg." Heidi smiled, "Say, where's Isis?"

"I'm not sure." Iceberg grumbled.

"Too bad, I wanted to say hi." Heidi shrugged and headed for the exit, "See you later."

"Later." Iceberg mumbled.


Heidi decided to head for Guardians HQ next. She needed more information on the abduction cases so she could figure out where to start looking. Mina was seated behind the front desk just as she was every day. Heidi began to wonder if the woman ever went home. Mina smiled as Heidi approached the desk.

"Hello Heidi, how may I help you?"

"I need all the information you have on abduction cases reported on Neudaiz." Heidi replied.

"That's a very big file." Mina frowned, "Any particular reason?"

"Seems I've been hire on a missing persons case." Heidi shrugged, "I need to know where to start."

"Private contracts are not allowed in the Guardians." Mina frowned, "It can land you in serious trouble."

"It's family Mina." Heidi replied, "Please don't tell anyone."

"Ok, if it's family." Mina nodded, "I'll take you off active duty as well so you won't be called in. Laia won't like it with us being short on Guardians…"

"Thanks Mina." Heidi smiled as she grabbed the data pad from Mina.

She waved to the receptionist as she headed for the main door and then to the Neudaiz PPT gate that would take her home.

[FOkyasuta]

And thats how it happened. Good one!

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THREE

Heidi returned to her room at the Neudaiz Guardians Branch and flopped down on her bed still feeling very frustrated with Iceberg. She understood why he did what he did; she just didn't like it very much. She picked up the remote and turned on the viewer screen that was still tuned into channel five. She picked up the pad Mina had given her and began reading through the information. The viewer chimed with the familiar theme of the local news cast.

"Oh no not Hal." Heidi muttered.

She sighed and looked up at the screen as the channel five symbol disappeared from the screen. The purple haired news reporter dressed in black beamed into the camera.

"Hi!" Hal waved in her way too chipper style, "This is Gurhal Channel Five News. I'm your reporter, Hal. Today's top story is, right here."

She waved as the news story window appeared beside her. Heidi looked back down at her pad and continued reading.

"Recent reports from Melvore Memorial Penatentury on Parum has confirmed the escape of Illuminus member and terrorist the cast known as Kireek." Hal continued.

Heidi gasped as her attention instantly turned to the screen.

"Prison officials say the cast attacked several guards this morning injuring four and killing two." Hal reported, "He escaped prison grounds on a prison shuttle that was dropping off new prisoners and was last seen headed for Moatoob. President Laia Martinez has put all Guardians in the area on alert but due to the large work load of the confinement system preparations there are few Guardians available to handle this situation. Resistants are warned that if they see this cast they should take all efforts to avoid contact. Remember Kireek is extremely dangerous. For Gurhal Channel Five News I'm your news reporter Hal. Bye, bye."

"Kireek is free?" Heidi gasped.

Arianna stared up at her master with a slight tilt of her head. As a Partner Machine, basic emotions were beyond her but she understood the danger that this Kireek presented. Heidi just stared at the image of the pool in her room floor. The replicated water shimmered and rippled just like real water. Heidi shook her head and looked down at her pad.

"Why do things keep coming between me and my mother?" Heidi sighed, "Well Kireek can wait. First I need to find my cousin then I find my mother and nothing will get in my way."

"Hal said Kireek was headed for Moatoob." Arianna said, "Isn't that where you need to begin your search?"

"It's a big planet. I doubt I would run into him." Heidi shrugged, "We should start by asking around Dagora city and see if anyone knows anything."

"We?" Arianna frowned.

"You don't think I'm going alone on this do you?" Heidi grinned.

"I had thought so yes." Arianna nodded.

"You were wrong." Heidi said.

She grabbed the PM by the arm and dragged her out the door.


The hot arid desert wind dropped down from the higher cliffs whipping sand at the inhabitants as it blew through Dagora City. Heidi pulled up the collar of her pink western top to shield her face from the whipping sand. The local Beasts standing around or walking by didn't seem to be bothered by it. Heidi envied them for it.

"Must be all that fur." She chuckled to herself.

A frown from a beast woman standing across from her told her that she had said it a little too loud. Heidi quickly smiled back with a shrug then headed up the ramp toward the Guardians branch and flyer base. She got part way there then decided to turn left and head for the local pub. If there was anyone in the city that could help her they would be there. She stopped at the top of the stairs and took a quick glance at the old beast man standing by the ledge staring out into the desert. Heidi couldn't remember a time when she hadn't seen the man there. She shook her head slowly then made her way down to Gwak's pub. She stepped through the door and took a quick look around. Most of the booths were full of dirty and worn down beasts. Most were quite content to sit quietly with their friends and guzzle down their drinks. A group of four sitting in the back were the exception. They were making quite a bit of noise laughing and telling stories and the occasional dirty joke. No one seemed to pay any attention to the Newman girl. Heidi started for the bar.

"HEY!" Gwak barked.

"Huh?" Heidi gasped.

"I don't serve their kind here." Gwak glared.

"Who are you…" Heidi started.

"You're PM." Gwak pointed, "I don't serve them here. It will have to wait outside."

Heidi turned and looked down at her PM. The little bot just stared right back at her.

"You better wait outside." Heidi frowned.

"Yes Miss Heidi." Arianna nodded and headed back out the door.

Heidi found a seat at the end of the bar next to a large black furred male beast. He absolutely reeked and it took every ounce of Heidi's self control not to gage. He looked down at her and snorted before returning to his drink. Gwak stepped up to her and placed a glass in front of her.

"So, what will you have?" He spat.

"I'm looking for information." Heidi replied.

"Not before a drink." Gwak snorted.

"I don't really drink." Heidi said softly, "Anything alcohol free?"

"Not in this place sweetie." Gwak snorted a laugh, "Either order a drink or get out."

"Something not too strong then." Heidi sighed.

Gwak snorted at her as he pulled a small flask from behind the bar and poured a light brown liquid in her glass. Heidi picked it up and gave it a sniff. The smell was absolutely repulsive. She quickly drew it away and frowned.

"You're not supposed to smell it." Gwak laughed.

This drew the attention of the other patrons. Several joined Gwak in his enjoyment and now all eyes where on this Newman girl.

"This stuff is fowl." Heidi gagged.

"Just drink it down." Gwak tapped the bar.

"This better be worth the information." Heidi muttered and took a swig.

She slammed the glass down and began coughing. The other patrons all laughed and clanked glasses. Heidi wiped her mouth and shot Gwak a nasty frown.

"Stronger men have failed to drink a whole shot of that stuff." Gwak laughed as he took her glass away.

"That was not funny." Heidi growled her mouth still burning, "How about some water?"

Gwak nodded and served her a glass which she quickly downed. The beast next to her just huffed and returned to his drink.

"How about what I came in here for?" Heidi said staring into her glass.

"What is it ye seek darling?" Gwak chuckled.

"I'm looking for a Newman girl." Heidi said, "She looks like me only with blonde hair. She was kidnapped from her home on Neudaiz. I know about the slave trading here on Moatoob. Any info on where would be most helpful."

"You really think something like that would be floating around in a place like this?" Gwak sneered.

"You're a bartender." Heidi smirked, "You hear things."

"Maybe I do, maybe I don't." Gwak shrugged.

"Look Gwak, I don't want any trouble but if you know something you better tell me." Heidi glared.

"Tough words from such a little…"

Before Gwak could finish he found a dagger at his throat. The other beasts started to move forward to help.

"Don't!" Heidi barked, "Look Gwak, I have nothing against you but this girl is my cousin and I intend to find her."

"Alright just put the knife away." Gwak nodded.

Heidi pulled the weapon away and placed it back in her Nanotransformer. The beast next to her was now staring at her with his mouth hanging open.

"Yes?" Heidi shot.

"I think I love you." He drooled.

Now it was Heidi's turn to snort and turn away. She glared at Gwak and tapped the bar.

"I don't know anything." Gwak shook his head, "But I do know someone who might."

He waved her over to the end of the bar closest to the door and drew her in close.

"There's a band of miners in the southern continent working under the company name Granite Unlimited." Gwak said, "They are generally based out of the small town of Eramosa. There tends to be more personnel shuttles coming and going than there are cargo ships. Every now and then one of the lower workers comes in here for a drink when they come for supplies and talks about their new shipment of real beauties he calls them."

"Thanks Gwak." Heidi nodded, "Sorry about the dagger."

She waved and headed for the door.

"No problem sweetie." Gwak waved, "Be sure to pay us a visit again.

"Ya right." Heidi muttered as the door closed behind her.

The taste of the awful drink still lingered on her tongue. She quickly climbed the stairs to find her PM waiting by the old beast man still staring out at the desert.

"Arianna?" Heidi frowned.

The PM turned and bowed slightly.

"You're not bothering this man are you?" Heidi asked.

"Not at all." The man laughed, "It was just the right company to lift an old man's spirits."

"Arianna?" Heidi frowned.

"Yes, quite a friendly little bot you've got there." The man laughed.

It was now that Heidi got a good look at him. She was stunned to find he was actually blind.

"Well, I'm sorry to pull her away from you but we do have business to attend to." Heidi said.

"The work of a Guardian is never done huh?" The man shrugged, "Then off with you child. Youth should not be wasted on the old."

"I wish I had time to dispute that with you but my time is hard pressed." Heidi bowed and dragged Arianna away.

The old man quietly turned back to the desert and stared out at the open plains. Heidi quickly dragged Arianna over the flyer base where she purchased two tickets to the southern port of Black Creek. From there they would have to make their way south to Eramosa. Heidi sighed and led her PM to the flyer.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOUR

The flyer ride was smooth and uneventful. Heidi slept most of the trip and felt quite refreshed and ready for action by the time the flyer reacted Black Creek spaceport. She quickly filed off the flyer with the other passengers, made her way through security, and out the exit. She was hit by the hot humid air the moment she stepped out the door. It was nothing like the dry desert air of Dagora City. Beads of sweat started forming on her forehead. She quickly wiped them away.

"Not used to the humidity huh?" A short beast man chuckled.

"I wasn't expecting it." She shrugged.

"It's caused by the cooling lake on the far side of town and the falls that feed it." The beast pointed, "Puts a lot of moisture in the air and makes is hotter than hell here."

"Can you point me in the direction of Eramosa?" Heidi asked.

"Eramosa?" The beast man gasped, "Why would a pretty little thing like you want to go to a hell hole like that?"

"I have business there." Heidi replied.

"Can't imagine what that would be but if you're sure then you want to head south." The man pointed, "I suggest renting a Longe. It's too long a trip to make on foot and their pretty hardy animals.

"Thank you." Heidi nodded.

She spotted a small beast girl with a Longe hooked to a cart sitting across the street. With Arianna in tow, Heidi quickly crossed the street.

"Looking for a ride lady?" The girl asked as Heidi approached.

"I'm looking for a place to rent Longe." Heidi replied.

"I know just the place." The girl nodded, "I'll take you there for fifty meseta."

"Deal." Heidi nodded.

She and Arianna quickly climbed into the cart. The girl climbed onto the front seat and snapped the reins setting the Longe into motion. Longe chirped happily as it trotted down the dirt road. It looked like an ostrich dinosaur mix. It barked happily as they passed another cart headed back to the port. The beast girl drove the cart to the out side of town stopping at a large ranch.

"This is it." The girl said turning to face Heidi, "Just talk to Ren and tell him Chara sent you."

"I will." Heidi nodded.

She climbed down from the cart and quickly paid the girl. The cart pulled away and headed back for the space port. Heidi wiped the bead of sweat from her forehead and started down the gravel laneway that lead to the ranch house and the brown wooden barn next to it.

"A wood building." Heidi shook her head, "You don't see these much anymore."

"It is very unusual considering the rarity of such materials on this planet." Arianna replied.

"In other words it would cost a small fortune to build something like this." Heidi replied.

"Yes Miss Heidi." Arianna nodded.

"It didn't a hundred and fifty years ago." A voice said.

Heidi turned to face a large red furred beast standing behind her. He glared down at the white haired Newman.

"A little far from home aren't we?" He frowned.

"I'm here on business." Heidi said, "I was told you could rent me a riding Longe."

"You were told right." The man growled, "But those are for crossing the desert. What would a fragile little thing like you be trying to cross such a nasty place like that for?"

"Not really your business but I need it to get to Eramosa." Heidi replied.

"Eramosa!" The man laughed, "Sweetie that place will eat you alive."

"Why does everyone keep calling me sweetie?" Heidi grumbled then said, "My safety isn't your concern."

"Nope, but the safety of my Longe is and I want it returned." The man shrugged.

"Any losses you suffer will be compensated by the Guardians." Heidi replied.

"Money isn't the issue." He shook his head, "Every one of these Longe is very dear to me."

"I can understand that but you are also in the business of renting riding Longe." Heidi said growing a little frustrated, "So are we going to do business or am I just wasting my time?"

"Very well." The man sighed, "Follow me."

He led Heidi behind the barn to a pen full of full grown Longe. They were peacefully grazing on the lush grass that had just been put down by one of the farm hands. The man who Heidi assumed must be Ren, carefully looked over each one before pointing at a husky looking one near the back of the herd.

"That one should be able to carry you and your little bot just fine." Ren said, "I won't risk more than one."

"I understand and accept." Heidi nodded and paid the man.

Ren quickly fetched the Longe from the pen and lead it and Heidi back out to the street. Heidi quickly climbed on and Ren lifted Arianna up behind her.

"Just follow this road until you come to an intersection then turn left and keep heading south." Ren said, "The mining town of White Rock lies between here and Amerosa. Do not go through that town. They are very unwelcoming to Guardians and I suspect it's controlled by rogues with Illuminus ties."

"Thanks for the tip." Heidi smiled and cracked the reins.

Longe made a deep throated growl and it bolted off down the road. Ren watched them go with a slight frown on his face. The farm hand stepped up beside him and looked at the Guardian disappearing in the distance.

"Contact Chaz." Ren said to the hand, "Tell him he may have trouble shortly."

The farm hand nodded and went back to the barn.

The hot desert sun continued to beat down on the two travelers as they rode down the dusty gravel covered road. The Longe didn’t seem to notice as it happily trotted along. Heidi was not doing as well. The sweat poured down her forehead and if she didn’t continually wipe it away, it would sting her eyes. By midday she reached the intersection the Ren had spoke of. She brought the Longe to a stop and took a swig from her canteen. The water was hot now but still a welcome relief to a dry dusty throat. She wiped her mouth and stored the canteen. The sign post between the two roads was broken off at the middle with the old wooden signs lying on the ground close by. Heidi studied the road to the right then the one to the left. Ren had told her to go left but the right road looked much more invited as it headed for the mountains which promised cooler temperatures and fresh water.

“I am going to be so sunburned.” Heidi groaned as she once again wiped away the sweat, “I should have brought a hat.”

Arianna just nodded. Heidi cracked the reins and the Longe chirped as it began its trot down the desert road. The road began a gentle decent into a wide valley where White Rock called home. Heidi’s eyes went wide as the town came into view. It was every bit as modern as anything found on Parum. White and steel coloured metal buildings dotted the landscape. All the roads were paved with white cobble stone and beasts of all sizes scurried from shop to shop. There was not a mechanical vehicle in site. Many people opted to ride the two legged Longe just like the one Heidi rode. She stopped at a ledge overlooking the town. She knew she had been warned to stay away but the town was very inviting to a desert beaten traveler.

“If we head east we can circumvent the city Mistress Heidi.” Arianna nodded.

“We aren’t going around.” Heidi replied.

“But we were warned to stay away.” Arianna frowned which looked very odd on the PM.

“I know but I need fresh water and rest.” Heidi shrugged, “I need to get out of this sun for a while and I could really use a hat.”

“I do not believe this wise.” Arianna shook her head.

“I find it hard to believe that this bright clean place is home to rogues and thugs.” Heidi pointed.

She cracked the whip and headed for the town. The Longe happily trotted down the path and onto the main street. No one paid the newcomers much attention. Heidi brought her Longe up to the front of a café and tied it up to a post. She helped her PM down then strolled through the front door picking a table near the front window. A young beast woman quickly stepped up to the table and set a pad down in front of Heidi.

“May I get you a drink to start?” She asked.

“Koltova juice.” Heidi replied.

The woman nodded and hurried off to fill the order. She returned quickly setting the glass down then disappeared again. Heidi took a sip of her cold juice but couldn’t shake the sudden feeling she was being watched. Arianna scanned the room then tapped Heidi on the arm.

“Mistress Heidi, those two beast men in the back corner are watching us.”

“You sure?” Heidi asked looking to the table Arianna indicated.

“Every other patron has cast casual glances our way.” Arianna nodded, “Those two have been constantly watching us since we walked in.”

“That explains my feeling of being watched.” Heidi sighed and took another sip of her juice.

The waitress returned to the table but she was not smiling.

“Is there anything else I can get you?” She asked.

“Uh, no.” Heidi replied, “But I do need a place to spend the night. Could you direct me to a motel or an inn?”

“Two blocks down is the Sunset Inn.” The waitress replied and dropped the pad containing Heidi’s bill on the table.

Heidi watched the girl walk away then picked up the pad.

“Is it just me or has it suddenly gotten cold in here?”

“I have not detected any change in the internal temperature of this building.” Arianna replied, “Though the outside temperature has dropped by three degrees due to the sun beginning to set.”

Heidi’s head dropped into her hands.

“Arianna, it was just an expression.” Heidi mumbled through her hands.

“My apologies.” Arianna nodded.

Heidi let out a deep sigh then quickly paid for her drink. She set the pad down then looked over at the table at the back. It was empty. She quickly scanned the room looking for the two beast men but they were gone. Arianna tapped Heidi on the arm again.

“What?” She asked looking down at the bot.

“Our Longe is gone.” Arianna pointed.

“What!” Heidi exclaimed jumping from her seat.

She burst through the café doors and looked to the empty post in front. She looked down both sides of the street but there was no sign of her Longe.

“This is just great.” Heidi growled clenching her fists.

“Mistress, I suggest we head for this inn.” Arianna said, “This town may not be safe at night.”

“I’m beginning to think this town isn’t safe during the day.” Heidi grumbled.

She turned and headed down the street. The inn wasn’t too hard to find. There was an old beast man working behind the desk. A large old model Cast stood in the corner by the stairs leading to the second floor. Heidi eyed him for a moment then turned away when the Cast failed to do anything. She stepped up to the desk and smiled at the man.

“I’d like a room for the night.” She said.

“Hmmm.” The man replied eyeing her, “Not often we get Newmans in here. Especially pretty young ones.”

Heidi smiled and blushed a little.

“Not unless they’re Guardians.” The man continued.

Heidi’s smile quickly disappeared.

“You’re not a Guardian are you?” He asked glaring at her with his good eye.

“Of course not.” Heidi shook her head, “Just a traveler headed for Aramosa.”

“With a Partner Machine.” The old man pointed, “A Guardians Partner Machine.”

“She’s an older model that I picked up at a surplus store on Parum.” Heidi replied, “With Guardians dropping left and right from the Seed attacks these things are a dime a dozen.”

“I thought the Guardians kept a tight rein on who got their hands on things like this.” The old man frowned.

“Are you kidding?” Heidi sneered, “With an incompetent leader like Martinez they’re lucky they haven’t been all wiped out already. The Guardians are doomed. They won’t last a year. Besides when has anything like security stopped the black market?”

“True enough.” The man grinned, “Room 208.”

He handed her a key card and Heidi swiped her Meseta card then took the key and headed for the stairs.

“Check out is at eleven.” The man called after her.

“Thanks.” Heidi waved and disappeared up the stairs.

“She’s lying.” The Cast said.

“I know that.” The old man waved him off

“What do we do?” The Cast asked.

“Nothing.” The man snapped, “We’ll keep watch but we do nothing. Hopefully she’s just passing through and will be gone in the morning.”

“It would be easier and more beneficial to eliminate her.” The cast replied.

“No!” The man turned and glared at the cast, “That would bring the Guardians down on us. We remain quiet and lay low.”

The cast grumbled something then resumed his statue like appearance.


Heidi entered her room and took a quick look around. It was sparsely furnished with a single bed, end table, and a viewer screen on the wall. The attached bathroom was small with a shower and a wash sink. Arianna did a full scan of the room then gave Heidi the all clear. Heidi hit the shower first eager to get the desert sand off of her. She found towels and a bathrobe in the closet. The robe was a little big but it would do the job. She quickly stripped her cloths and hopped in the shower. She kept the temperature cool as to not aggravate her sunburn. Getting the sand out of her hair proved the biggest challenge. Once she was done she towelled dry and put the robe on. It was very cozy and warm. She picked her clothes off of the floor and dropped them on the end of the bed before collapsing on it.

“It really is the simplest things in life that are the best.” She smiled as she spread out on the bed.

Arianna nodded but said nothing more. Heidi quickly drifted off to sleep being much more worn out than she thought.

A crash in the night awoke Heidi from her relaxing sleep. She was still lying on top of the bed in her bath robe. She quickly sat up listening with her sensitive Newman ears. Some one was walking down the hall to her room. She quickly scrambled for her nanotransformer. It was still lying on the end of the bed. She pulled her S red Blades from the transformer and slid off the bed. She quietly tiptoed over to the door inching herself tight against the wall. The door slid open with a soft swish and someone quietly crept into the room. Heidi slid in behind them and drove the butt of her dagger hilt into the back of the persons head. She heard them hit the floor with a thud. Heidi quickly fumbled for the light switch gasping when the lights came on. On the floor groaning was the old man from the desk. Heidi dropped her dagger hilts and rolled him over grabbing him by the collar.

“What are you doing in my room?” She growled.

“I didn’t know you were awake.” The man replied.

“I wasn’t.” Heidi glared.

“Curse those Newman ears.” The man said, “Those beautiful Newman ears.”

Heidi scoffed and dropped him. She went back to the door and bent down to pick up her daggers.

“And that nice shapely firm Newman butt.” The man nearly drooled.

Heidi shot up straight and spun to face him.

“That’s it.” She pointed, “I want you out now.”

“But we haven’t even gotten to the fun part.” The man said taking a step closer, “Now, why don’t you just drop that robe and I’ll show you why we’re called beasts.”

A dagger blade appeared at his throat stopping him cold.

“Two options.” Heidi hissed, “You walk out or I drag you out.”

“I… I think I’ll walk.” The man stuttered.

With hands up he slowly slid around the girl and out the door. Heidi never moved her dagger away until he was out and the door closed. She sighed and stowed her daggers. Arianna quickly moved to stand in front of the door where she would remain for the night.

The old beast man sighed as the door closed on his face. He turned to go back to his room only to run into the chest of the Cast.

“So, this is why you wanted the girl left alone.” The cast growled.

“I just wanted a little fun.” The man shrugged, “She would be dead by morning.”

“Yes, she will.” The Cast said his hand shooting out to grab the man's throat.

He lifted the man off the ground then began to squeeze.

“You have been relieved of duty.” The cast said and the man went limp as his neck snapped.

The Cast turned and headed back down the stairs dragging the dead beast man with him.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FIVE

Heidi awoke the next morning feeling refreshed and energetic. She climbed out of bed, quickly pulled on her clothes and equipped her gear. With Arianna in tow, Heidi descended the stairs stopping at the front desk. There was no one manning the desk.

“Hello!” She called, “I’m ready to check out now!”

She waited for a moment then shrugged placing the key card on the desk.

“I guess no one is home today.” She said looking down at the little PM, “Well we better get going; we’ve got a long trip ahead.”

“Wrong.” A metallic voice said.

Heidi looked over at the Cast standing in the corner. It stepped out from the shadows and pointed its finger at her.

“We know who you are.” It said, “You will not leave this town alive.”

“Huh, why?” Heidi frowned.

“We can not let you interfere with our business here.” The Cast said, “Many Guardians have tried before. All have failed.”

“What business?” Heidi squinted, “What are you talking about?”

“You are here about the Illuminus black market.” The cast stated.

“I don’t know anything about that.” Heidi replied, “I’m just passing through. I’m looking for my cousin.”

The Cast suddenly realised he had erred. It was too late now. The Guardian knew and she must die.

“I apologise.” The Cast said, “I have signed your death certificate. Before you may have passed with out interference but now you know too much.”

“Thanks a lot.” Heidi glared drawing her daggers, “Be warned, I’m not an easy target.”

“You think you pose a challenge to a Cast?” He grinned.

“I’ve taken down bigger bots than you.” Heidi pointed a dagger at him, “You don’t want to take me on, but if you really insist on this then come on.”

“You will regret those words.” The cast grinned.

He drew a pair of claws from his nanotransformer and charged. Heidi quickly put up her daggers in defence expecting the attack. Instead the cast barrelled into her driving her though the inns front window and out into the street. People quickly crowded around to watch the fight. Heidi was slow to her feet. The cast drove in with claws swinging once, twice, three, and a fourth driving straight into her line shield. The shield sparked and shimmered as it reached its limits. The cast drove in again expecting an easy kill. Heidi dropped to the ground and rolled toward the cast causing him to run passed her. She sprang to her feet twisting around, driving her dagger into his line shield. The shield easily deflected the blow but like hers, it too lost energy. She followed with two more quick swipes before the cast spun around. He used his momentum to drive his fist into her cheek. Her shield gave out absorbing some of his strike. The metal fist still smashed into her head knocking her to the ground. Dazed and semiconscious, Heidi crawled back trying to put some distance between her and her attacker. The Cast strolled right up to her and reached down to grab her by the neck.

“This was far too easy.” He sneered lifting her up off of the ground, “I would have expected better from a Guardian.”

Heidi went limp and closed her eyes still holding on to her daggers. The Cast frowned and tilted his head studying the unusual reaction. This girl should be struggling for her life not simply hanging there. It took all the fun out of the final kill. Heidi started to glow with the red light of fire.

“What is this?” The cast gasped holding her out at full arms length.

Heidi’s arms lifted up sticking straight out to her sides. The light became brighter and a ring of sparkling fire began to circle her head. Just as the Cast was about to drop her, she flashed in a blinding light and a ball of Foie blasted out from her chest driving the cast back. Heidi floated back to the ground landing on her feet ever so softly. The crowd gasped and backed away. The cast groaned and slowly sat up. He looked down to see a blackened hole in his chest. Vital circuits and fluids were draining away. Heidi softly walked up to him, her eyes still closed and yet she looked directly at him.

“You were warned.” Heidi said calmly, “You chose to ignore it and now you will pay.”

“What are you?” The Cast horsed.

Heidi bent down staring him in the eyes, hers were still closed.

“I am a Hunter.” She replied and lifted her palm up to his head.

A ball of Foie shot out blasting the casts head clean off. Heidi let out a deep breath and opened her eyes. The fiery glow instantly disappeared. She looked at all the stunned faces staring back at her. She spotted Arianna standing in the crowd and waved to the bot.

“Come on, we’ve got a long journey ahead.”

“Yes Mistress.” Arianna replied and ran to catch up to her owner.

The crowd quickly parted for her as she headed out of town. The two companions were watched until they were well on their way into the desert. They came across an abandoned cargo hauler a little while later. The thing didn’t run but Heidi did find three bottles of fresh water and a baseball cap to wear. She also found a data pad containing a map of the area and a direct route to Aramosa.

“If only this hauler still worked.” Heidi sighed taking one last look before leaving it behind.

As they continued to walk along the road, Heidi couldn’t shake this strange itchy feeling in the back of her mind. It had started just after her fight and now it was getting worse.

“Ugh.” She gasped and began scratching her neck, “I can’t take this itch.”

The itch suddenly moved down to her nanotransformer. She quickly removed the device and the itch disappeared but her transformer began vibrating.

“Nanotransformers do not normally act like that.” Arianna said.

“So what’s wrong with it?” Heidi frowned and gave the device a tap.

It flashed a bright white light forcing Heidi to shield her eyes. The light faded almost as quickly as it came. Heidi looked down to see a little blue fox floating over her nanotransformer. The fox looked up at her and meowed happily.

“Sato!” Heidi gasped, “What are you doing here? I told you to stay in our room.”

The Mag meowed again and floated up to her position over Heidi’s left shoulder.

“I was trying to go undercover.” Heidi frowned at the Mag, “How am I supposed to do that with you here?”

The Mag just stared back at her. Heidi sighed and shook her head deciding she was beaten.

“You two are going to drive me to the loony bin.”

As the sun continued to climb in the sky so did the temperature. By mid afternoon Heidi was drenched in her own sweat and dragging her feet. She had tried to use her water sparingly but even know it was getting low and she hadn’t even made it through one day. It was a one day journey by Longe but they moved much faster than a human. By foot Heidi was at least another day and a half away with no relief in sight from the sun and according to the map, no sources of water. She went to take another sip from her bottle but decided against it and stored it away.

“Miss Heidi.” Arianna finally said after hours of silence, “You’re vital signs do not look good. You are badly dehydrated and with out more water…”

Arianna let the final thought hang. Although she was just a Partner Machine and not even as advanced as a Cast with their emotional A.I.s, she had still grown fond of her owner and she would miss Heidi if something happened to her.

“I don’t understand it.” Heidi said stopping and looking down at her feet, “I just passed the Guardians fitness test. With my condition and four bottles of water I should have no problem lasting three days in this.”

“But you are down to one and half bottles.” Arianna frowned.

“Arianna.” Heidi spun around and looked down at the little bot, “Full toxic scan.”

“I need a blood sample for that.” Arianna said, “And even then my systems are very limited.”

“Just do it.” Heidi said and jabbed her arm with the tip of one her daggers.

Arianna hadn’t even seen her take it out. Such an obvious over sight was most uncommon for her. She took note of it in her memory then wiped the trickle of blood off of Heidi’s arm and began her scan. Heidi stowed her dagger then put her hand on the tiny cut to stop the bleeding. Arianna stood frozen for a minute as she put all her processing power into the blood scan. Arianna’s head shot up.

“Mistress, I am detecting several toxins in your blood including Kakwane venom.” Arianna reported.

Kakwane were the bipedal frog like creatures native to the restricted Habirao F.D. area on Neudaiz. Kakwane were very aggressive and always hunted in groups. Kakwane have the ability to poison their prey through a nasty bit or by slashing with their claws. If the prey does manage to escape from the attack and survive the initial shock of the poison, they poison has a secondary effect of dehydrating the prey. Heidi suddenly looked very sick as she pulled her canteen and the last water bottle from her nanotransformer. She handed the canteen to Arianna first. The PM did a quick scan and shook her head. Heidi handed her the water bottle next and after a brief moment Arianna nodded her head.

“I was set up.” Heidi growled, “It was all a trap.”

“Why, that Cast was supposed to kill you.” Arianna asked.

“One of two possibilities.” Heidi replied holding up two fingers, “First, he wasn’t originally going to kill me and something changed, or this was a back up plan in case he lost.”

“This would take time to set up.” Arianna replied scanning the area, “It is possible it was done during the night or…”

“Or it was done while we were on our way here.” Heidi finished.

“Perhaps this whole mission is a trap.” Arianna suggested, “And that woman isn’t really a relative.”

“That would mean someone is trying to eliminate me personally.” Heidi shook her head, “I can’t see that. I haven’t made any real enemies except maybe Kireek and he just escaped from prison. He hasn’t had enough time to set this up, and I’m just not that important or a high enough ranked Guardian for anyone to benefit from my death.”

Heidi began walking alone the road headed for Aramosa. She dropped the poisoned water bottle letting the water spill out onto the desert sand. She stared down at her feet as she marched along; pondering everything she had just learned. She wanted to believe that woman. She wanted to believe that she had family elsewhere in the system. No, it had to be the truth and she was being attacked simply because she was a Guardian.

“I believe my Aunt.” Heidi said softly, “I believe I have a cousin and she’s in trouble.”

“Yes Miss Heidi.” Arianna replied.

Sato gave a soft meow landing on Heidi’s shoulder. She gave the Mag a little pat then concentrated on the long walk ahead. She soon ran out of water and yet her thirst remained. She soon found it difficult to think straight and had to force her self to concentrate solely on reaching Aramosa. There would she find a cure. Arianna was also finding difficult to process information and found her self concentrating on the simple task of walking. She couldn’t shake the nagging sense that there was a very simple solution to her master’s problem. Every time she diverted processing power to the problem she encountered a very painful error. The sun began to dip low in the sky and the temperature began to drop as well. By now, Heidi’s vision had blurred to the point were everything was just fuzzy outlines. Her feet felt like lead and every step was a struggle. Arianna had fallen behind and one of her feet was now dragging in the sand. Heidi took a step and stumbled falling to the ground. She tried to get up but her legs refused to work. She dragged her self through the sand for a couple arm lengths then she could go no further. Her head hit the ground and the cold darkness of unconscious consumed her.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SIX

Heidi awoke in a dimly lit room. She was lying on a small cot with two large beast men staring down at her.

“I still think we should have finished her in the desert.” The man on the right mumbled.

“That would be a waste of a perfect business opportunity.” The man on the left replied, “Look at her. A well built physical specimen such as her will retrieve quite a profit from our customers.”

“Ya, what ever.” The right man shrugged not fully understanding what his partner said, “The fact is she is a Guardian and dealing Guardians is very dangerous.”

“Please.” The left man waved, “Once she’s sold off and lost in the slave network no one will ever find her and better yet no one will ever find us.”

“They will track her Partner Machine.” The right man grumbled.

“What Partner Machine?” The left man snickered.

“The Partner Machine that was lying with her in the desert.” The right man frowned, “You were there.”

“I know there was a Partner Machine.” The left man growled slapping the back of the right mans head, “I got rid of that infernal machine. There is nothing left to track.”

“Arianna!” Heidi exclaimed, “Where is she?”

“Ah, our commodity is awake.” The left man grinned, “Welcome my dear, to your new life.”

“What are you talking about?” Heidi asked sitting up.

As soon as she did her head began spinning.

“Easy now.” The left man said pushing her back down, “The Kakwane antitoxin hasn’t fully taken effect.”

“What did you do with Arianna?” Heidi glared.

“We can’t sell Partner Machines.” The man shrugged, “Too risky, but parts is a different story. That little bot will fetch us quite a profit.”

“If you’ve hurt her…” Heidi cried springing up.

She was instantly overwhelmed by dizziness and had to lie back down. The man just chuckled at her then turned to his partner.

“Once she’s well, have her moved to the holding cells.”

“Why me?” His partner replied watching him leave.

“The beast man stopped at the door and turned back to face his partner.

“Because if you don’t I will tear your heart out and let you watch it stop beating then ram it back in the hole in your chest.”

He stormed out the door slamming it behind him.

“I hate those manual doors.” The beast grumbled.

Heidi tried to sit up again hoping to jump him from behind. A swinging arm smashed into the side of her head dropping her back to the bed.

Heidi was escorted to a prison cell by two beast men and they weren’t gentle about it. They shoved her in and activated the force shield behind her. Gone was her cowgirl outfit, replaced by an Arabian styled dress. It was purple trimmed with white lace. The top ended just below her chest and the sleeves were see through vale with elastic cuffs that sat snug around her wrists. The bottoms were equally skimpy and the pant legs were the purple vale just like the sleeves and also ended in elastic cuffs set tight against her ankles. Matching slippers trimmed in white lace finished off the outfit. Two other girls close to Heidi’s age dressed in similar outfits occupied her cell. One was a brown haired human wearing a green dress, the other was a red short haired Newman dressed in a yellow outfit.

“Looks like Gareth got another one.” The human sighed.

“White hair.” The Newman said looking down at Heidi, “Rare colour if it’s natural.”

“It’s natural.” Heidi groaned as she climbed to her feet.

“You’ll fetch a fair amount of Meseta then.” The human smirked, “Clarissa will do well with the Newman fetish that’s going on right now. I’ll most likely end up as just a servant girl.”

“Not really a bad deal considering what we’re in for.” Clarissa replied looking Heidi over, “Nice flower.”

Heidi reached up to her head and found that her flower she normally wore in her hair was still there. She turned and looked out the door to the surrounding cells. They were full of girls from all over Gurhal and they were all dressed the same as Heidi only each wore a different colour. Careful consideration had been taken to ensure that the colour of the dress accented the wearer perfectly like the pale human girl in the cell to Heidi’s right. She wore a black dress so her light skin contrasted brightly with her cloths. The cell across from her contained a dark furred beast woman. She had been dressed in a white outfit. Heidi’s purple outfit went with her white hair and slightly tanned skin to give her a royal appearance. All the cells were dimly lit but extremely clean and even the bathroom had a curtain for a little privacy.

“Where am I?” Heidi asked turning her head to look at the human.

“The slave prisons of Aramosa.” The girl replied, “So where did they nab you?”

“Out in the desert.” Heidi shrugged, “I was on my way to Aramosa but I passed out from dehydration even though I had three water bottles with me. The two I found ended up being poisoned.”

“Must have seen you coming.” Clarissa grumbled.

“What in the world were you doing coming to this place?” The human girl gasped.

“Looking for my cousin.” Heidi replied, “She went missing a few months ago and my Aunt, who I didn’t even know I had, long story, asked me to look for her. After doing some snooping around I was lead here. Now I’ve lost my PM and my Mag.”

“What’s a Mag?” The human asked.

“Forget that Becky, did you say PM?” Clarissa asked.

Heidi nodded.

“So you’re a Guardian.” Clarissa pointed.

Heidi nodded again, “Uh huh.”

“Then why aren’t you dead?”

“Ya, they don’t usually try to sell Guardians.” Becky said placing a hand on Heidi’s shoulder, “You guys are usually too hard to break.”

“I don’t think I like the sound of that.” Heidi frowned.

“You shouldn’t.” The beast woman in white said stepping up to the door, “The only buyers that will be interested in you will be the abusive ones looking for a challenging play thing. They will beat you down until you submit and then they will have their way with you, sometimes before they break you. It’s more fun when you fight back I guess. When you stop pleasing them and they grow tired of you that’s when they dispose of you in the most horrific manner they can imagine.”

“How do you…” Heidi began.

“Teletha has been through this circuit several times.” Clarissa said, “It’s amazing she’s not dead yet.”

“There are days I wish I were.” Teletha replied placing a hand on the force field door.

“How does this continue to go on?” Heidi gasped, “Why haven’t the authorities stopped this?”

“Most of Moatoob is run by rogues or the Illuminus.” Clarissa shrugged, “So the Trade Federation doesn’t even try to stop them.”

“Trade Federation.” Teletha snorted, “Who do you think started the slave trade.”

“I find it hard to believe that a planets government would openly start a slave trade.” Heidi frowned.

“Please, Moatoob is the most primitive and uncivilized planet of the three.” Teletha turned away from the door, “A disorganized government founded by slaves and run by criminals. What do you expect?”

“I am so reporting this to the Guardians when I get back.” Heidi frowned and crossed her arms.

This prompted laugher from the other girls.

“Sweet heart.” Clarissa said squeezing Heidi’s shoulder, “You ain’t ever getting back.”

Footsteps from down the hall quieted every one as their attention shifted to the noise.

“That must be Gareth now.” Becky muttered.

“Remember, do not look at him in the eye and do not talk back.” Clarissa whispered, “Just keep your mouth shut and you’ll survive, for a while.”

“And pray it isn’t Bosley.” Teletha muttered and turned away picking a seat at the back of the cell.

The footsteps became louder as the two beast men made their way down the hallway. They were muttering business talk as they went finally stopping in front of Heidi’s cell.

“This is the newest editions to my stock.” The larger man waved.

“Two Newmans and a human.” The shorter light furred man eyed the prisoners, “You’re right I am interested. My harem is running a little low.”

The taller man chuckled, “You do seem to go through a lot of them.”

“Got a keep things fresh to keep things interesting.” The shorter man elbowed the taller.

“Well I’ve got something really interesting for you.” The larger man chuckled, “The white haired girl here is a Guardian.”

The short man’s face lit up.

“So much for keeping it a secret.” Clarissa muttered and slumped to the floor.

“I’ll take all three.” The short man grinned, “I am in need of a new servant girl and the human looks perfect.”

“I new you’d be happy.” The tall beast nodded, “Shall we go and finish the paper work. I’ll have the arrangements for delivery to your home.”

The two beast men headed back down the hall still chatting it up. Becky watched until they were gone. She turned to the others and nodded.

“Coast is clear.”

“Bosley, it has to be Bosley.” Clarissa muttered with her head tucked between her legs.

“You’re in for a world of hurt Guardian.” Teletha pointed stepped up to the door.

“Who is this Bosley?” Heidi asked.

“Only the richest and cruellest slave owner on Moatoob.” Teletha shrugged, “He will either break your spirit or he’ll break you.”

“My money’s on break you.” Clarissa sighed, her head still buried in her knees.

It wasn’t long before three guards came and retrieved the three girls. They herded the girls from the cell using electrified pain rods. They didn’t inflict any physical damage but they did deliver a nasty shock. Heidi learned this very quickly when she didn’t move as quickly as the guards wanted. One guard shoved the rod into the nape of her back. The instant blast of the electrical charge knocked her to her knees and blasted the air from her lungs. Becky helped her to her feet and the guards marched the girls outside where a cargo transport was waiting for them. The girls were lined up as one of the guards opened the rear cargo hatch. Heidi spotted something from a nearby bush. As she watched a little blue mechanical fox crawled out from underneath. Sato started to cross the side walk toward her but keeping her arm tight against her leg, Heidi waved the fox back with a flick of her wrist. The little Mag reluctantly retreated back into the bush. The guards ushered the girls onto the transport and closed the door behind them sealing them in darkness. Clarissa slumped to the floor with a sigh.

“They could have at least turned on the lights.” Becky grumbled hugging herself tightly.

Heidi moved to the door and felt around for a release not really expecting to find one. She gave the door a couple hard pushes but when it failed to budge she stepped back with a sigh. The transport pulled away abruptly causing Heidi and Becky to fall to the floor. The ride was long but very smooth and both Clarissa and Becky eventually fell asleep. Heidi remained awake trying to get her bearings by the move of the transport but she was no ranger and her tracking skills were limited. After the first hour and a half, she was forced to give up and huddled up in a corner by the door. Heidi found herself growing drowsy after what felt like hours. She was on the verge of nodding off but a sudden jerk from the transport as it came to a halt snapped her awake. The door slid open flooding the cargo hold with bright hot sunlight. Heidi had to shield her eyes until they adjusted. The other two were slower to get up.

“We’re here?” Becky asked rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

A large beast man and a slightly shorter beast woman stepped up to the door.

“Out!” The man barked.

The girls slowly shuffled out of the cargo hold resulting in Becky receiving a pain rod to the back. She screamed as the jolt knocked her to her knees. Heidi rushed forward knocking the stick away and pushed the beast woman back. She was rewarded with a butt of the pain rod to the back of her head.

“Let that be your first lesson.” The beast man growled bending close to Heidi’s head and drooling on her cheek.

“Looks like we need to go over some house rules.” The beast woman said as she picked up her pain rod.

“Indeed.” The beast man nodded, “First, you will only talk when talked to. Second, you will bow with your face to the floor when ever our master enters the room. You will obey each and every command with out a word and right away. When the master is away you will obey your house parent. Your parent will depend on which area you are put in. All house parents are above you and must be obeyed but an order from your own house parent can only be over ruled by our master. You will touch nothing unless commanded. You will awake at six AM for your first meal and report to your area by six thirty. Ten PM is lights out unless our master requires you further. You will receive an evening meal and a midday snack. There will be no further feedings unless instructed by our master.”

“That about covers it.” The woman snapped, “Now inside.”

The beast man grabbed Heidi by the back of her tunic and lifted her off the ground.

“I know all about you Guardian.” He snarled in her face, “I’ll be keeping a close eye on you.”

He let her drop to her feet then shoved her forward. Every fibre of her being wanted to swing around and slug him but movement from a bush near the side of the mansion stopped her cold. The three girls slowly shuffled to the two large oak doors that served as the main entrance to the mansion. Heidi kept watch on the bush and sure enough Sato started to crawl out. Heidi quickly waved the Mag back. She was shocked that the little Mag had been able to follow the transport the entire way. She suspected is more likely the Mag had hitched a ride. It didn’t matter, Heidi was just glad Sato was here. They passed through the doors and into a massive front lobby. A large red Venetian carpet stretched from the door to a large stair case that split into two as it curved up to the second floor. The stairs curving to the right connected to a white marble balcony. The stair case curving left connected to a single oak door. There was a set of double doors to Heidi’s right and a single door to the left. The back wall also contained two doors. The floor was laid with dark hard wood. Marble statues from all over Gurhal littered the room and rare expensive paintings covered the wall. Two women entered the lobby from the left door on the back wall. One was a blonde human with blue eyes and a frame almost as delicate as a Newman. She was dressed in a simple yet very elegant gown. The other was indeed a Newman. She had black hair tied into a pony tail and she was several inches taller than Heidi. She was dressed in a short top and very short skirt. Everything else was bare. She was more muscular than the human but Heidi was sure if it came to it she could easily take the woman. The human stopped in front of Becky looking her over closely.

“I had heard we were receiving a new servant girl.” The woman said looking at the beast pair, “Is this her?”

The beast woman quickly nodded. Heidi figured this must be one of those house parents and obviously out ranked the two beast thugs. The woman grabbed Becky by the chin and carefully looked her over again.

“You’ll do I suppose.” She shrugged, “Follow me and I will teach you what you need to know.”

Becky hesitated looking over at Heidi and Clarissa.

“Forget them.” The woman said, “You will not be interacting with them again. In fact there’s a good chance you will never see them again.”

Becky slowly turned away and followed the woman out. The Newman girl stepped up to Clarissa and Heidi.

“That makes you mine.” She said with a stern face, “Welcome to the world of Bosley’s harem. This is the last place you will ever live. You will be touched in places you’ve never been touched before. You will be treated like never before and participate in acts you would never dream of in you’re wildest nightmares and you will do it without protest or resistance. To do so will terminate your life. Now let’s get you into something a little more appropriate for your new role. The two beasts just snickered. The woman shot them both an icy glare then turned to lead the two Newmans out. She led them through a series of hallways until they reached the harem quarters. Here the harem girls slept and readied themselves for the day. The room was empty as all the girls were currently working in the harem. The woman led them to a rack of clothing if that’s what they could be called and picked two off the rack. She handed one to each of the girls. There was hardly enough fabric in them to call them bikini’s.

“My name is Christa; I am your house mom.” She said, “I trust those beasts laid out the house rules.”

“Yes mum.” Clarissa replied.

“Good, now get changed.” Christa pointed at the bathing suits.

Clarissa started to pull off her Arabian dress. Heidi held up her suit and frowned. She wasn’t the most conservative girl in Gurhal but this was too little coverage even for her. She let the suit drop.

“No way am I wearing this.”

“You should be glad you have this much to wear.” Christa jabbed Heidi in the chest, “Some girls are not so lucky.”

“Forget it.” Heidi shook her head.

“Are you seriously asking for punishment?” Christa frowned.

“CHRISTA I NEED YOU!” A deep voice called from the next room.

“Bosley calls.” Christa sighed.

She stripped of her skirt and top and with a sigh, headed out to the harem. Watching Christa’s naked backside disappear through the door, Heidi couldn’t help but feel a little guilty. She looked down at the bathing suit and shook her head.

“We should be glad we have this much to wear.” Clarissa sighed.

Heidi nodded but she still wasn’t going to wear it. Instead she tore the sleeves and pant legs off her current outfit.

“That’s as good as he gets.” She said.

“This isn’t a good idea Heidi.” Clarissa shook her head.

“Don’t worry about me.” Heidi replied, “You just make sure you stay out of trouble.”

“Deal.” Clarissa said shaking Heidi’s hand.

It was quite a while before the two girls were finally summoned into the harem. Bosley was seated on a large bed that looked much like a giant pillow, wearing only his natural fur. The girls in the room were mostly Newmans but a few were human and there were even two beast women. Three guards stood tight against the wall never moving and never making a sound. Christa was cuddled up tight against Bosley. He smiled as he gazed upon Clarissa but the smile was quickly replaced by an angry scowl as his gaze shifted to Heidi.

“What is the meaning of this?” Bosley bellowed as he grabbed Christa by the throat, “She is not wearing the proper dress.”

“If you think for one second that I…” Heidi started to protest.

She was interrupted by a pain rod to the back. She let out a yelp as the shock dropped her to her hands and knees. Bosley released Christa and climbed off the bed stepping up to Heidi. He bent down and lifted her head by her chin.

“That is just a taste of what happens when I am disobeyed.” Bosley growled.

“I don’t care what you think you paid for me.” Heidi growled back, “You do not own me.”

“Hm.” Bosley shrugged and stood up straight.

He nodded to the guard who had shocked Heidi and the guard, with a slight grin, drove the rod into Heidi’s back holding it until she passed out.

“Let that be your first lesson.” Bosley spat.

[FOkyasuta]

Hm, Takes a dark twist and some what other type of twist... Go on. But if it takes THAT specific turn, Im done.

[Seth Astra]

Damn you and your awesome writing combined with cliffhangers!!! Now I won't rest until I get more! You have me addicted.

[Freeze]

Thanks guys, and yes HUcast, the next couple chapters do get a little dark but don't worry, I keep them clean.

[FOkyasuta]

Woo... Good Writers not walk that path. :3

[HUmar Darkedge]

is all this like a fictional story based on psu or something, cause all of it is sooo good

[Freeze]

is all this like a fictional story based on psu or something, cause all of it is sooo good

Yes, it's a follow up story to Ragol's Legacy, the link for which is in my signature.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SEVEN

And so the routine began. Bosley would order, Heidi would defy, and the guards would shock her into unconsciousness. At first it was open defiance that motivated Heidi but eventually it turned to protection of the other girls. When ever one would make a mistake and the guards wrath was about to descend on them, Heidi would act out drawing their attention to her and sparing the other girls. This was not lost on Bosley who would stand back and watch. Heidi still wore her outfit from the prison. Bosley would not physically force any of his girls to do anything. He wanted to break them so they would willingly do it themselves. He wanted Heidi to change on her own. When she did, then he would know that she was his. The fact she was now protecting the other girls told Bosley that as long as she had a purpose to her life, a mission, a goal, she would never submit to him. The fact that she had become physically sick from the punishment and had missed harem duty because of it solidified this. Even now she was in bed being attended to by Christa. He always did enjoy a challenge. A smile crossed his face as a new tactic began to tickle his brain. He crushed out his cigar in a planter to his right then turned to his personal guard.

“Charles, I believe we need to change our strategy with our little guardian.” He sneered.

“You plan to use the other girls against her Sir?” Charles asked.

“You read my mind.” Bosley nodded.

Charles was one of the most intelligent guards Bosley had ever met and more often than not saw the same things Bosley did making him a most efficient guard.

“Next time our Guardian acts out I want the girl she arrived with punished.” Bosley said, “The Guardian will not receive a single shock from this moment on. All the other girls will receive her punishments.”

“Understood.” Charles grinned, “I will inform the other guards.”
Bosley nodded and turned from the balcony view before him and sat down at the desk in his study. Normally at this time he would retire to the harem for some relaxation but with both his Guardian and his dear Christa absent he just didn’t feel like it. He pulled another cigar from the box in his desk drawer and gave it a long sniff. They were made from the finest weed on Parum and each one cost a small fortune. The fact he was on his second one in the same day indicated he was under more stress than he let on. He bit off the tip then lit it, inhaling a couple puffs before tapping the button on his vision phone. A dark furred small beast appeared on the screen.

“Bosley!” The beast gasped choking on his food.

He quickly finished his bite with a quick shot of liquor before continuing.

“I did not expect to hear from you at this hour.”

“I was unexpectedly free tonight.” Bosley replied flatly.

“Trouble with the new girl huh.” The little beast sneered, “I don’t understand why you waste so much time on her.”

“Because when I finally break her she will be my most treasured prise.” Bosley replied.

“Even more than Christa?” The little beast frowned.

“Much more.” Bosley nodded.

“Good luck then.” The beast shrugged, “But you didn’t contact me for idle chit chat.”

“No.” Bosley shook his head, “I’ve been going over the latest figures from our southern mine. Why is production down fifteen percent?”

“It’s those blasted Illuminus workers.” The beast growled, “Ever since the Guardians have gone into overdrive with the relic’s site Howzer has cut activity. I have expressed our dissatisfaction with his production but he just shrugs me off.”

“He’s up to something.” Bosley frowned, “I don’t like it. Find out what he’s doing and get that mine back up to full production. I’d hate not to be able to afford my next harem girl.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” The beast sneered and cut the connection.

Charles stepped up behind Bosley and cleared his throat softly.

“Will you be retiring to the harem or shall I retire the girls early tonight?”

“Retire the girls.” Bosley waved, “They are going to need the extra rest.”


Heidi waited for Christa to leave, gone to fetch her a drink of water. She slipped from the bed and quietly crept to the door. She took a quick glance down the hallway before slipping out the door and quickly danced down the hall slipping around the corner just as a stream of girls came out from another door. Heidi peeked back around the corner and watched the girls file into the sleeping quarters. They were early and this put a snag in Heidi’s plan. She was counting on Bosley being occupied with them. With the harem empty she couldn’t be sure of Bosley’s whereabouts. She slipped down the hallway stopping to check the next corridor. It was empty so she stepped out and jogged down to the next intersection. There were two guards to her left standing with their backs to her at the far end of the hallway that exited into one of the interior courtyards. Heidi slipped to the right and quietly made her way to the next room. This looked like a guest room with a balcony that overlooked one of Moatoob’s many desert canyons. The view would have been breathtaking if she wasn’t in so much danger. She crossed the room and through the next door. She bounded down the hallway slipping passed two more guards then turned left at the next intersection. She slowly approached the door at the end and found it open just a crack. She quickly began to appreciate Bosley’s preferred choice in older manual doors rather than the new automated ones found everywhere else in Gurhal. She softly gave the door a nudge pushing it open a little further. She froze as she peered in. It was Bosley’s study and he was seated at the desk. Trying to remain silent she slowly sank away and headed back down the hallway. She skipped passed the joining hallway without being seen and made her way into yet another guest room. This one had no second door. She quickly made her way out to the balcony. She looked around then down at the ground far below her. She let out a deep sigh. A metallic meow greeted her as Sato floated up from below.

“Hello there.” Heidi smiled, “I’m glad you’re alright.”

Sato meowed happily.

“Shhh.” Heidi quickly shushed the Mag, “I’m trying to escape. Got any ideas?”

Sato moaned softly and descended back to the ground.

“That’s what I was afraid of.” Heidi groaned.

She climbed up onto the railing swinging her legs out over the ledge. She kicked off her slippers as they were far too slick for this climb. Using the balcony and the adjoining wall she began her decent. The stone construction of the mansion gave her plenty of handholds. A guard walked out onto the balcony right below her. Heidi froze waiting for him to go inside. He pulled out a cigarette and lit it taking a deep puff.

“Great.” She muttered.

Heidi’s muscles began to scream from the strain of clinging to the wall. The guard slowly puffed away at his smoke until he was finally called away by another guard. Heidi quickly descended the wall dropping to the balcony the guard had just occupied. She sighed with relief quickly rubbing the ache from her arms. Once she felt better she started to climb back out onto the wall. The rest of the climb was easy and she slipped to the ground. The sand felt so good under her feet.

“Sato.” She whispered, “Sato, come here.”

The Mag failed to appear. Growing concerned, Heidi began searching for her lost friend completely forgetting about her escape. She continued to quietly call for the Mag but she just wouldn’t show. Heidi rounded a large bush and a sharp pain shot across the back of her head quickly followed by darkness.


Heidi awoke with a splitting head ache. Christa was staring down at her with a frown.

“You are very lucky you’re still alive.” Christa said softly.

“Is she awake?” Bosley barked coming to stand over her, “You are a real thorn in my side. To this point you have failed to respond to discipline. It is clear to me that we have been using the wrong kind and this recent escape attempt is proof.”

Bosley waved to a guard who dragged Clarissa in tossing her to the ground at Heidi’s feet.

“It is clear you are not concerned for your own safety.” Bosley said, “It is also clear you are concerned for the safety of the other girls here. You are well trained Guardian.”

Bosley nodded to the Guard who drove his rod into Clarissa’s back. She screamed as the electrical jolt disrupted every neural pulse. The guard pulled the rod away and Clarissa dropped to the floor sobbing.

“What are you doing?” Heidi cried, “I was responsible not her. Punish me.”

“You’ve already proven that doesn’t work.” Bosley snarled getting right in Heidi’s face, “From now on when you disobey, they shall pay.”

“You monster.” Heidi growled and leaped on Bosley.

The guard quickly grabbed her by the back of the neck and hauled her off. Clarissa screamed again as the rod drove into her back.

“Stop it!” Heidi cried.

“You will obey?” Bosley asked tilting his head.

Clarissa looked up at Heidi with blood shot sobbing eyes begging her to obey.

“Alright.” Heidi sighed.

“Good.” Bosley nodded, “Take them away.”


It was difficult for Heidi to submit so easily and even though she now wore the skimpy outfit required of the harem, she quickly found just how little defiance it took for punishment to descend on the other girls. The wrong look, a too long hesitation, an instinctive pulling away, making a sound without permission, all brought pain on the other girls. Resentment toward Heidi quickly swarmed over the harem and she quickly found herself with only one friend. Despite what she had gone through, Clarissa remained at Heidi’s side. Heidi knew that now it was not just a mater of escaping, but she had to escape with Clarissa. She would never be able to live with herself if she left Clarissa behind. One night while the other girls slept, Heidi crept over to Clarissa’s bed and gave her a soft shake. She quickly clamped her hand on Clarissa’s mouth when the girl started to protest.

“Quiet.” Heidi whispered, “We are leaving. Tonight. Keep quiet and follow me.”

“Heidi no.” Clarissa whispered back grabbing her arm.

“I’m not staying here and I am not leaving you here now lets go.” Heidi said and pulled away.

She quietly crept to the door and slowly pushed it open. The hallway was empty and dark. She quickly slipped out into the hall.

“This is such a bad idea.” Clarissa grumbled and followed Heidi out.

The two girls slipped down the hall making their way for the same balcony Heidi had escaped from before. Heidi turned away and went for Bosley’s study instead. She wasn’t about to use the same escape route twice. They slipped through the study and out into another series of hallways. They soon found themselves in the servants section, the kitchen to be exact. They slipped through without seeing a single guard anywhere. Heidi found this very unusual and began to get a very bad feeling. She pushed it aside deciding they were already too committed. They found the exit to the back court yard where Bosley kept his large swimming pool.

“People are dying of thirst in the desert and he uses a villages worth to bath in.” Clarissa gasped.

“No body said life was fair.” Heidi said.

“How can you just dismiss this?” Clarissa waved at the pool.

“Because there is nothing I can do about this.” Heidi replied, “My main concern right now is our survival.”

“A noble but futile crusade.” Bosley’s voice boomed from the darkness.

Several flashlights flicked on bathing the two girls in light. Bosley stepped forward walking up to Heidi first.

“I expected this from you.” He turned and faced Clarissa, “I thought you were smarter.”

He turned his back to them and took several steps toward his guards.

“This can not go unpunished.”

He waved to his guards who quickly sprang into action taking the girls away.

“What do you plan on doing about this Sir?” Charles asked.

“Ordinary punishment is not working.” Bosley replied, “We need to demonstrate the results such actions demand.”

“You did pay a lot of Meseta for her and you haven’t had any use of her yet.” Charles said.

“It’s only Meseta.” Bosley shrugged.

[FOkyasuta]

Seems like, Prison Break. PSU version.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER EIGHT

The next morning the girls were all gathered in Bosley’s den. The large bay window that overlooked his outdoor floral garden was covered by a large curtain. Heidi had been returned to the barracks shortly after her escape attempt but Clarissa was still missing. She had a very bad feeling about all this. Bosley walked in from a side door stopping in front of the window facing the girls.

“You have all been gathered here because one of you refuses to obey the house rules. She continues to cause anarchy and chaos.” Bosley said calmly, “We have tried discipline on her without success. We have tried punishing others on her behalf. That was starting to show promise until last night. The greatest act of disobedience was performed. An escape attempt was made but what’s worse is she took another with her. I have been fairly lenient up to this point but this act can not be excused. You have been gathered here to witness what kind of punishment will befall you if such actions continue.”

Bosley nodded to a guard who pulled the curtain away. Everyone gasped as they gaze up at Clarissa nailed to a cross. She had been stripped of her clothes and beaten until she was near death. Her flesh had been reduced to a sloppy mess from repeated whippings. The cross post and the ground were stained red. A couple of nasty slashes across her belly were deep enough that her entrails had peeked out. Her head hung down and she appeared dead.

“Clarissa no!” Heidi cried running up and banging her hands on the glass.

Tears filled her eyes as she looked up at her friend. Then Clarissa’s fingers clenched and the girl looked up. Her mouth opened in a vain attempted to scream as a guard jabbed her with a spear. She hadn’t the strength to push herself up for a breath of air so she had nothing to scream with. Heidi gasped with horror. Thinking her friend dead was bad enough but to see her in such pain was just too much. She collapsed on the floor sobbing. Many of the other girls had to look away and almost all of them were crying. The two beast girls turned their hate filled stares at the white haired Newman crying on the floor. Bosley stepped up to Heidi bending low to her ear.

“You are responsible for this.” Bosley snarled softly, “Her death is on your head and if you continue to act out, this fate will befall every girl around you. Their lives are in your hands.”

He stood up and waved to the guards, “Take the other girls back to the barracks so what they have seen today can sink in.”

He turned back to Heidi and knelt down again, “You will remain here and watch your friend die slowly. To bad she has no breath left. I would so like for you to hear her screams.”

Bosley stood up and started to walk away. Heidi slowly looked up at Clarissa, the girl staring right back at her begging Heidi to let her die quickly. Heidi’s tears stopped and her breathing became heavier and deeper as sorrow was replaced by anger. Her hands clenched into tight fists as she slowly climbed to her feet. Bosley and the others were just starting to leave but everyone froze and Bosley slowly turned back to face the Newman girl. He started to question her but he clamped his mouth shut and just looked at her. A deep intense hate began to flow through every fibre of Heidi’s being. Her blood began to run hot. Her vision narrowed focusing only on Bosley and her hearing was flooded by the beating of her own heart. She slowly started for Bosley. The beast man looked around at his guards but no one moved.

“What do you think you are doing?” Bosley questioned her.

“You hurt me.” Heidi growled, “You hurt my friend. You hurt every one you touch and you enjoy it. Never have I seen such evil before.”

“Well.” Was all Bosley could sputter.

“No more.” Heidi said still staring at the man, “No more.”

“What are you waiting for?” Bosley yelled at his guards, “Stop her!”

This shook the guards into action, charging at the Newman. Heidi’s arms went up over her head and as the guards closed in she flung them down. The ground erupted in a blast of Gifoie blasting the guards back setting several of them on fire and incinerating two. Bosley gasped in horror at the power. Heidi continued to stalk forward. Bosley turned to run.

“No.” Heidi growled.

She cupped her hands together then flung her arms out in front of her pointing her palms at Bosley. A giant purple orb shot out across the room flying right through Bosley dropping him to the ground. Heidi continued forward as the seriously wounded Bosley tried to crawl away. Blood trickled from his mouth as his internal organs began to bleed from several deep ruptures. Heidi reached Bosley who rolled to his back to stare at the fiery Newman girl. Her blue eyes appeared to burn with fire.

“Please, have mercy.” Bosley coughed.

“Why should I show mercy to someone incapable of showing it himself?” Heidi glared down at him.

“You’re a Guardian.” Bosley replied, “You are better than this.”

“I am a hunter.” Heidi replied, “Sworn to protect the innocent and destroy evil.”

“Please.” Bosley cried.

“And you are evil.” Heidi finished.

She pointed her open palm at Bosley. A bolt of Zonde flashed down severing the beast man’s head. More guards filed into the room just as the bolt crashed down. They quickly pointed their guns at the girl. Heidi turned to face them a ball of Foie burning in each hand. She gave them a small smirk. The guards hesitated then quickly dropped their weapons. Heidi nodded then turned to face the window launching her fire balls at the glass. The Foie balls blasted into the glass melting away a hole large enough for Heidi to walk through. She stopped just passed the glass then turned to face the girls and guards.

“Get out.” She said firmly with a razor sharp edge.

This made everyone scramble for the exits. One of the guards triggered the house alarm so every one would evacuate. Heidi turned back to her bleeding and dieing friend. She walked up to Clarissa placing a hand on her feet.

“I am so sorry.” Heidi said staring Clarissa in the eyes, “This is all my fault. I never meant for this to happen. I just wanted to help you.”

Clarissa, unable to speak, gave Heidi a weak smile and nodded. Heidi nodded back with a smile then stepped back from the cross. She put her hand up and channelling all the remaining hate for Bosley, she launched a ball of Megid at Clarissa. The purple orb flew through the girl instantly draining all the remaining life force in her. Clarissa’s head fell limp. Heidi let out a sigh, her eyes wet from tears and fired up another Foie ball lobbing it at the corpse. She turned away and made her way around to the front of the house. She walked down the laneway to the street then turned back to the house. Her blood still burned but it was starting to cool so she had to act quickly. Putting her arms at her sides with her hands pointed out, palms up, she slowly lifted them up as lifting the very ground above her head. The ground around the house cracked and broke rising up in a red molten mass enveloping the mansion then with a load roar it sunk back into the ground taking the building with it leaving only a large pool of molten rock. Heidi exhaled dropping to her knees as all her metal energy was used up. Her blood now flowed cool and her sorrow returned. She began sobbing into her hands then she fell forward on to her face crying hard. The other girls and the house employees appeared from farther down the road slowly making their way back up the street. Becky pushed her way to the front of the pack, gasping when she spotted Heidi. She bolted forward falling beside her friend hugging her tightly.

“Thank you.” She said softly, “Thank you.”

The others gathered around the two girls but kept their distance.

Heidi stopped crying and slowly looked Becky in the face.

“But Clarissa…” She started.

“I know.” Becky replied, “It was Bosley, not you.”

“If I had just behaved she would still be alive.” Heidi sniffed.

“And we would all still be prisoners facing his cruelty.” Becky said squeezing Heidi, “You saved the rest of us. You freed so many. I can’t begin to thank you.”

Charles stepped up to the girls staring down at Heidi, “What are you?”

Heidi looked up at him with blood shot eyes and a very confused look.

“What are you?” Charles repeated, “Using techniques without weapons. Only the highest members of the Communion can do that and not even the Divine Maiden has this kind of power.”

“I’ve never felt anything like that before.” Heidi replied with Becky helping her to her feet.

“A foolish man would use this opportunity to capture you for great profit.” Charles said, “In your current shape I doubt you would put up much of a fight. A wise man however would see the future danger in such an action and would simply walk away.”

Heidi and Becky both stared at Charles waiting for the attack.

“I am no fool.” Charles smiled and walked away.

“I thought…” Becky started.

“So did I.” Heidi grinned, “Come on lets get out of here.”

The two girls started walking down the road but a metallic meow stopped them. Sato crawled out from a bush and floated over to Heidi.

“What is that?” Becky exclaimed

“Where have you been?” Heidi smiled at the Mag then turned to Becky, “Becky, this is my friend Sato. She’s a Mag.”

“What’s a Mag?” Becky frowned.

“That’s a long story.” Heidi replied.

The crowd parted as the two girls made their way down the road then everyone started to go their separate ways. Heidi looked up at the rising morning sun and smiled.

“It began a long time ago on a distant world.” Heidi began, “Oh ya, did I tell you I’m part alien?”

[Seth Astra]

I was wondering when Amanda would help out. Two comments:

1. Amanda is badass.

2. I would like to say I didn't enjoy Bosley's death, but I can't. He really had it coming to him.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER NINE

Heidi let out a deep sigh as she sank into the hot tub. The soothing heat felt so good after almost a month of cold showers in Bosley’s harem. She sank deep so the water came up to her chin then reached up and grabbed a chocolate candy from the bowl sitting beside the tub. She popped it in her mouth then giggled with delight.

“I never thought the simple pleasures would feel so good.” She said.

Becky stuck her head in from the bed room, still drying her hair.

“I’m glad to see you’re feeling better.” She grinned.

“Who wouldn’t when the Guardians are paying for this?” Heidi chuckled, “Laia is going to have a fit when I get back.”

“If she finds out it’s you.” Becky laughed.

“If.” Heidi replied then ducked her head under the water.

She sat there for quite a while enjoying the warmth and incense that was burning nearby. Becky had gone out and flopped down on the sofa in front of the view screen. She was curled up in her bathrobe watching a movie. During the commercial a news break came on talking about Bosley’s house.

“Heidi, come here quick!” She called.

Heidi sprang from the tub and ran out to watch the news. A tall clean shaven dark human man stood in front of the camera. He was positioned at the bottom of the mansions laneway.

“Good evening I’m Bruce Bannership reporting for channel seven action news.” He said, “I am here on Moatoob’s southern continent several kilometres from the small mining town of Aramosa. Behind me is the location of the mansion of wealthy mining operator Bosley Preston. As you can see behind me the entire mansion has disappeared. None of the mansions employees can be located and authorities have begun an immediate investigation. All that remains of the once four story building is a cooling pool of lava. When questioned on the matter local geologists are tight lipped saying only that they are looking into the matter. There hasn’t been any recorded geological activity in this area in one hundred and fifty years and still nothing has been recorded. Authorities urge citizens to report any sightings of the missing employees as they are wanted for questioning or if anyone has any information on the missing house or missing home owner Bosley. This is Bruce Bannership reporting, Action News Channel Seven.”

Becky turned to Heidi and frowned, “They didn’t mention anything about the harem girls.”

“Either they consider them employees or they didn’t know about them.” Heidi shrugged.

“If you’re finished with the tub you might want to put your bath robe on.” Becky giggled.

Heidi looked down at herself then frowned at Becky.

“Grow up.” She shook her head as she headed for the bedroom.

She came out a few minutes later wearing a simple Moatoob tunic and shorts. She tossed a similar outfit on the sofa beside Becky.

“Dress quickly.” She said, “We’re leaving.”

“So soon?” Becky asked looking down at the cloths.

“I’m afraid so.” Heidi said pulling her boots on, “It’s not going to take them long to trace this room service to me and I still have a cousin to find.”

“Ok.” Becky nodded reluctantly.

She quickly changed into her cloths then followed Heidi and Sato out. Heidi turned in her room card then the three friends made their way out into the busy streets of Aramosa. Heidi headed for the nearest bar as she had no other leads. She strolled in through the front door attracting way too much attention. Becky followed her in but she was much more discrete as all eyes turned to the two girls. Heidi stepped up to the bar eyeing the Bartender. He was short, fat, light furred beast with a scar running across his right cheek.

“Can I help you?” He growled.

“I’m looking for a Newman girl.” Heidi glared back, “She looks like me only blonde hair.”

“And what makes you think I’ve seen her?” The Bartender snorted.

“I wasn’t finished.” Heidi growled back, “I know all kinds of girls come through here. I was one of them so don’t jerk me around!”

She finished by grabbing him by the front of the shirt and pulling him into the bar. The fat beast bounced back smacking hard against the wine rack behind him. This spurred several of the patrons to climb from their seats. Becky scuttled over to Heidi pushing herself close.

“Ah Heidi.” Becky quivered tugging on her shirt.

“What!” Heidi exclaimed turning to face the girl.

Her gaze fell on the slowly approaching beasts and gasped, “Uh oh.”

“We don’t take kindly to strangers who think they can push us around.” The Bartender snickered.

Heidi took a defensive stance against the incoming crowd pushing Becky behind her.

“I’m warning you all, you don’t want to do this.”

“And why not baby doll.” A black furred beast the lead grinned.

“No she’s right.” Becky said peering around Heidi, “You don’t.”

“Think I’ll take my chances.” The beast smiled baring his fangs as he reached out.

Heidi swung her arms out knocking the beast’s arms apart then she sprang forward slamming a fist into his stomach. When he just smiled she drove her knee up into his groin. The beast dropped to his knees roaring in pain. Heidi stepped back and with a quick spinning kick right to the head, knocked him out. This inspired the crowd to rush the girls. Becky scrambled up a bar stool and onto the bar top. Heidi ducked the first beast attack causing him to stumble into the bar. She drove her fist into the belly of a shorter fatter beast knocking him back into his friends. She turned and side kicked the first beast in the head as he tried to recover. It knocked him to the floor but he was quick to his feet even though he was still a little stunned. Heidi drove both her fists into his stomach and as he keeled over she flicked her leg up kicking him in the forehead. As he crumpled to the floor she turned to face two beasts roughly her size. The first punch came left which she easily deflected. The second came from the right which she also easily deflected then followed with a quick jab to the throat. The left beast tried to grab her but she elbowed him in the nose. There was a wet snap as she felt the mans nose break under her elbow. He pulled back crying as he tried to keep the blood back with his hand. Two more beasts rushed forward but Heidi easily drove them off with a couple hard kicks. The remaining beasts were a little more reluctant to come forward second guessing their decision to join this fight. A tall red furred beast pushed his way to the bar. He was almost seven feet tall with long fangs and furry pointed ears. His arms where nearly as thick as Heidi’s body was. The hard wood floor creaked with every step. Becky gasped grabbing a liquor bottle from the bar but fear kept her from throwing it. The giant stopped in front of Heidi and glared down at her with a sinister grin. The bartender seeing an opportunity tried to grab Becky with the intent to haul her behind the bar. Becky squealed spinning around and smashing the bottle over his head. With a low groan he collapsed to the floor.

“You’re pretty tough little doll.” The giant sneered, “Let’s see how you deal with a real man.”

Rolling his head left to right he cracked his neck.

With a smirk Heidi replied, “Ok, if you can find me one.”

The grin drained from his face and he reached out for Heidi. She dropped to her belly and with all her strength she pushed off the bar sliding through his legs popping up behind him.

“Too slow.” Heidi grinned wagging her finger.

The giant beast spun with a growl and tried to grab her. She hopped back out of his reach.

“Oh, not fast enough.” Heidi teased.

The beast roared and charged her. She turned and hopped up on one of the tables. He reached out to grab her but she jumped to the next table. Enraged, he grabbed the table she had been on and flung it aside. He stomped toward her but just as he went to grab her she sprang to the next table. This continued around the room until Heidi found herself with no more tables, and standing on the bar next to Becky.

“No place left to run little doll.” The giant grinned.

“Why don’t you just zap him like you did Bosley?” Becky whispered.

“That takes a lot of energy and I haven’t recovered yet.” Heidi replied.

“Better recover quick.” Becky quipped as the giants fists slammed down on the bar between them.

The girls jumped to the sides avoiding the attack. The giant turned toward Heidi who backed up until she ran out of bar. The giant beast drooled sensing his prey. With a determined frown, Heidi sprang forward delivering a powerful kick to his head. The kick drove his head sideways but he simply turned back to her with a smile.

“You’ll have to try harder.” He sneered.

“Ok.” Heidi shrugged and kicked him again then before he could recover, she jumped on his back wrapping her arms around his throat cutting off his air. He backed up against the wall and slammed her against it. The impact knocked the wind from her lungs but she managed to hang on. He slammed her again and felt her grip loosen. A third slam dropped her to the floor. With a great gulp of air he turned and picked her up by the throat.

“My turn.” He grinned as he squeezed.

She grabbed at his hand but it was so big it almost didn’t fit her neck and she didn’t possess anywhere near the strength to pry it loose. Instead she brought her leg back and drove it into his groin. The grin instantly dropped off his face and he slammed her into the wall.

“Not wise.” He growled, “But not good enough.”

Knowing he was still hurting, she kicked him again. His eyes began to water and he flung her across the room. After taking a couple deep breaths he began limping across the room looking very angry. Heidi was slow climbing from the pile of broken chairs and tables from her landing. She was hurt bad and was pretty sure at least one rib was broken. That brought back the memory of her last broken rib and shiver shot up her spine. The giant beast flung chairs and tables out of his way, whether they were standing or not, stalking the injured girl. Heidi tried to retreat but a sharp pain shot up her right leg from her ankle as she put weight on it causing her to stumble. She turned to limp away but the beast grabbed her by the back of the shirt.

“Uh oh.” Heidi gasped.

The beast jerked her back and spun her around to face him. He grabbed her shirt and hoisted her off the ground.

“That was low.” He snarled, “Now I will crush the life from you.”

“I bet their pretty tender.” Heidi smirked.

She went to kick him again but he grabbed her leg.

“You’re out of arms.” Heidi grinned.

The beast shrugged and hoisted her up over his head and flung her back across the room. She smashed into the bottle rack behind the bar falling to the floor. Becky jumped off the bar quickly checking on her friend. Heidi groaned and slowly pushed herself up to her knees.

“Heidi, are you alright?” Becky asked.

Heidi coughed up some blood then croaked, “No.”

The beast bent over the bar and went to reach for Heidi.

“No you don’t.” Becky protested moving in his way.

“Out of my way.” The beast replied.

He picked her up and flung her over the bar like a rag doll. He chuckled as he watched her land. Heidi looked up at his laughing face. A burning sensation began to form in the pit of her stomach. She slowly rose to her feet, all pain was gone. She glared at the beast as the anger continued to grow. The beast slowly turned back to her and the smile changed to a confused frown.

“What in the name of the holy light?” The beast gasped.

He stepped back as Heidi moved forward slowly climbing over the bar.

“Wwwwhat are you?” The beast stammered.

“You’re worst nightmare.” Heidi replied.

Becky started to get up off the floor. Her face brightened up at the sight of Heidi stalking at the beast.

“Go get him Heidi.” She said softly.

The bartender slowly stood up. Seeing that everyone’s attention was on the giant and the Newman, he made a bee line for the door. Becky spotted him and dove at him. She tackled his feet tripping him to the ground. She quickly scrambled up taking a seat on his back pinning him to the floor.

“Oh no you don’t.” She grinned patting him on the head.

He tried to get up then groaned when he couldn’t. The beast giant continued to slowly back up as the fiery Newman girl advance forward. The other patrons cleared aside making room for the giant man.

“It’s bad enough you picked a fight with me.” Heidi growled, “That I can handle. No one but no one hurts my friends.”

The giant beast continued to back away nearly tripping over a fallen chair.

“What’s the matter Bomber?” Someone called, “Scared of a little girl?”

This prompted the big man to turn and growl. He turned back glaring angrily at the advancing Newman. The shock and fear of her sudden change was long gone. He started forward reaching out ready to grab the girl.

“Big mistake.” Heidi hissed.

She thrust her right arm out. A stream of molten rock shot across the floor exploding as the Nosdiga slammed into the beast. The giant nicknamed Bomber was sent flying back against the wall slumping to the floor. He was slow to get up. The hair on his head and the tips of his ears were smouldering from the attack. Heidi continued to move in on him. A blast of Gibarta set the broken chairs and tables in her way, flying off to the sides. Bomber took a deep gulp as Heidi stared at him with her unblinking eyes. He started to get up from the floor but a blast of Zonde drove him back down. He tried a second time but a RAfoie blast knocked any last fight from him. He had just enough strength to pat out the small fires on his fur. Heidi stopped at his feet glaring down at him. In the palm of her right hand she held a small swirling purple orb.

“Please, please have mercy.” Bomber stammered.

“Give me one good reason.” Heidi snarled.

“I promise not to attack anyone ever again.” Bomber replied.

“How do I know you’re not just saying that?” Heidi asked raising her right eyebrow.

“I’m a beast.” Bomber replied, “I couldn’t possibly lie about this. I have my pride and it hurts almost as bad as my head right now.”

Heidi paused for a moment as she considered this now truly defeated man. She finally shrugged and snuffed out the Megid ball.

“I believe you.”

Bomber let out a sigh and slumped to the floor. Everyone else stood perfectly quiet, all eyes on Heidi as she turned and walked over to the bartender. Becky slid off the fat man then helped Heidi pick him up. Heidi grabbed him by the collar and pinned him against the wall.

“My cousin, where is she?” Heidi snarled.

“I…I don’t know.” The bartender snivelled, “I swear it. The only one who might know is Samuel.”

“Oh no.” Becky moaned.

“Who is Samuel?” Heidi frowned.

“You’ve already met him.” Becky said placing her hand on Heidi’s shoulder.

“I have?” Heidi asked.

“If you were bought by Bosley then yes.” The bartender said.

Heidi’s eyes went wide, “No!”

“Yes.” Becky nodded.

“Where is he?” Heidi glared at the Bartender. “Take me to him.”

“I can’t do that but I can tell you where to find him.” The bartender smiled weakly.

“Tell me.” Heidi growled.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TEN

Samuel’s shop was just as unremarkable as any other building in Aramosa. Metallic silver paneling, spotless glass windows and polished stainless hardware dominated the cosmetics. The lobby of the apartment complex was equally utilitarian and simple with sandy brown carpet, wooden chairs, and tables. The steel coloured elevator doors located at the end of the lobby allowed access to the upper levels. A left and right hallway connected to the lobby at the elevators, and led to the utility rooms that housed the environmental controls and washing machines for laundry.

“We’re supposed to take the left hallway right?” Becky asked.

“That’s what he said.” Heidi nodded.

“You think he lied?” Becky frowned.

“Possibly.” Heidi nodded.

“Then this is a trap.” Becky sighed.

“Definitely.” Heidi smirked.

“Can’t wait.” Becky groaned.

Heidi moved down the left hallway checking for surveillance devices. She didn’t see any but her sixth sense kept pricking the back of her brain. She entered the furnace room and cautiously moved to the back where she found the closet the bartender had told her about. Becky moved in behind her as Heidi reached for the old wooden door knob. She paused just before she touched it. Why was this knob wooden when everything else including the closet door was metal? Her instincts were screaming at her.

“Becky, stand back.” Heidi said.

“But…” Becky started.

“Please, stand back.” Heidi ordered.

Becky jumped back at the force of Heidi’s voice. Heidi nodded then reached out for the knob.

“If something happens to me, I’ll need you to get me out.” Heidi said as she grabbed the knob.

Becky nodded and gulped as Heidi turned the knob and pulled. The door slid open easily revealing a dimly lit staircase that led to the basement. Heidi moved in slowly. When nothing happened Becky followed her in. She kept her distance as Heidi made her way to the bottom. There was a small office with a large wooden desk and a beast man a little taller than Heidi seated at the desk. He jumped from his seat when he spotted the two girls.

“What are you doing here?” He cried, “And how did you find this place.”

Heidi marched around the desk and grabbed him by the shirt.

“My cousin, where is she?” Heidi growled.

“What, who?” Samuel sputtered.

“Newman girl, blonde hair, looks like me.” Heidi replied, “Where is she?”

“I’m not sure.” Samuel grinned sheepishly, “I have so many girls go through here.”

“Don’t jerk me around.” Heidi burst shaking him.

“If you let me go, I can check my records.” Samuel replied.

Heidi released him with a shove, “Don’t try anything.”

Samuel moved to cabinet behind his desk and opened a drawer.

“How long has she been gone?”

“A little over six months I think.” Heidi replied.

Samuel pulled out a thick folder and placed it on the desk. It was full of photos. The fact that it was a paper file surprised Heidi. It was extremely rare to see this type of format. She wondered where he even got the paper. He spread the photos out and motioned for the desk.

“Do you see her?” Samuel asked.

Heidi took a moment to scan the photos then pointed to one near the table’s edge.

“I think that’s her.” Heidi said.

Becky nodded her agreement.

“You think?” Samuel frowned.

“I’ve never actually met her.” Heidi replied, “Or even seen her before.”

“Really?” Samuel smirked then picked up the photo and the attached file, “Well, it appears she was sold from here about seven months ago. A mister Karl Howzer.”

“Howzer!” Becky and Heidi gasped.

“You are kidding me.” Heidi’s jaw dropped.

“I don’t kid.” Samuel said as he swept the photo’s off the table, “I’ve given you what you want now leave.”

“One more thing.” Heidi said holding up her finger, “I want my equipment back.”

“Why should…” Samuel began.

Heidi grabbed him by the collar and slammed him against the wall, “I’m warning you, don’t jerk me around.”

“You really don’t want her to get mad.” Becky grinned.

“Fine.” Samuel sighed not really in the mood for a fight.

He tapped a button mounted under the table that opened a secret door in the back wall beside the file cabinet. Heidi let go of his collar and moved for the door. Becky followed pointing her finger at Samuel and frowning as she passed him. Samuel let out a small sigh once the door had closed.

“It’s never good when your product comes back.” He grumbled slumping into his chair, “Especially on their own.”


Heidi and Becky moved slowly down the now familiar hallways of the basement prison. They hadn’t gone very far when Sato moved away and started bumping into a side door and meowing.

“What’s wrong with her?” Becky frowned.

“I don’t know.” Heidi shook her head, “But when Sato makes a fuss you can bet it’s important.”

Heidi moved to the door and pulled it open. Sato rushed in making a straight run to a chest sitting at the back of the room. The side walls where lined with shelving. The shelves were piled high with personal items from all over Gurhal. Becky stopped just inside the door and started going through them. Heidi went for the chest Sato was bumping. She gently pushed the Mag aside and popped the lid open. Inside staring up at her was Arianna’s head. The chest was full of various other PM parts and some of Arianna’s limbs but most of her parts were missing.

“Oh Arianna.” Heidi sighed picking up the head, “I am so sorry.”

“Heidi, I’m sorry.” Becky said holding some clothing from Parum.

Heidi nodded then pulled the brain case off the head. She reached in and pulled out a chip. She stared at the chip for a moment before placing the head back in the chest.

“Arianna will live again.” Heidi said holding up the chip, “But it’s going to take a lot of feeding and base PM’s aren’t cheap.”

“I’m glad.” Becky said closing her hand on the chip, “Now let’s go find your stuff.”

She released Heidi’s hand and started going through the pile of stuff on the shelves.

Heidi quickly found her purple Phasnis vest and Becky pulled out a box of nanotransformers. Heidi started going through the box while Becky searched for her shorts and boots. Heidi squealed with glee when she found it and that it was still fully stocked. Becky soon recovered Heidi’s pink HUnewearl boots. They didn’t find her black shorts but Heidi found a pair of blue ones that fit. The two girls quickly slipped into their cloths feeling much better.

“I’m surprised you don’t have your cloths attached to your transformer like all the other Guardians.” Becky frowned slightly.

“What and have my cloths vanish when someone swipes my transformer leaving me in my underwear?” Heidi grinned, “No thank you. I prefer real clothing.”

Heidi.” Becky said the smile draining from her face, “There are still girls here waiting to be sold. We should help them.”

“You ever thought about being a Guardian?” Heidi smiled, “You’re right.”

She looked around and smiled when she spotted a handgun sitting on the shelf. She scooped it up and shoved it into Becky’s hands.

“You’re an honorary Guardian now.” Heidi smiled.

“But I don’t know how to shot.” Becky frowned.

“You’ll learn.” Heidi shrugged and headed back out into the hall.

“Ya but… hey wait for me!” Becky called scrambling out into the hall.

The girls moved slowly down the hallway but were surprised to find a lack of guards. Several of the girls they had left were still here.

“What in the world are you two doing here?” Teletha gasped.

“We’re getting you out.” Becky giggled.

“Where are the key cards?” Heidi asked.

“Probably with Gareth.” Teletha shrugged, “The tall beast who sold you. Keep heading down the hall and you’ll find his office.”

“But he went that way last time.” Becky frowned pointing back the way they had come.

“All transactions go through Samuel’s office.” Teletha replied.

“Fine.” Heidi said breaking up the conversation, “You stay here and watch for trouble.”

Heidi pointed at Becky as she finished then turned and sprinted down the hall. Every girl quickly jumped to her feet and moved to the cell door as Heidi passed. Hope that freedom was close spread like wildfire and moral shot through the roof. For the first time ever laughter could be hear in these prison halls. The end of the hall ended with two doors. The first one Heidi opened lead to the loading dock where girls were brought in and shipped out. The second door opened on to a small office with a very startled beast sitting behind the desk. He spat out the alcohol he had been drinking and gasped.

“What… how?” He sputtered.

“Key card for the cells.” Heidi growled drawing her daggers, “Now!”

Gareth quickly regained his demeanour and climbed from his chair.

“I knew you’d be trouble but I didn’t expect this much.” He said drawing a claw from his desk and slipping it on to his right hand, “I don’t suppose I’ll be seeing Bosley anytime soon.”

“I wouldn’t hold my breath.” Heidi sneered.

“Fine, let’s get this over with so I can get on with business.” Gareth replied sounding rather bored.

“Better start looking for a new line of work.” Heidi growled.

“I’d suggest the same for you.” Gareth grinned.

“Tried it.” Heidi shrugged, “Wasn’t impressed with the benefit package.”

Gareth chuckled, “I’m starting to like you Guardian. Shame I have to kill you now.”

“I’ll try to put up a bit of challenge for you.” Heidi winked.

“I know you will.” Gareth replied springing forward.

Heidi leaped back into the hallway where she’d have more room to fight. Gareth burst through the door taking a wide sweep with his claw which Heidi easily blocked. He immediately returned with a straight jab. Heidi drove his attack left and wide with her dagger. She tried to return with a swing from her right dagger but Gareth tucked his claw in close for the block. This prevented him from making a counter attack so Heidi drove straight in with the left. Gareth blocked this as well which Heidi expected. His right arm was now across his body from the block so she quickly jabbed with her right dagger cutting his arm just below the elbow. His claw swung back knocking her arm wide and nearly jarring the dagger from her hand. Her left dagger quickly came in as she spun her body with the momentum of her right arm. Gareth blocked this but Heidi continued her spin dropping to her knees and letting her right dagger swing across his legs catching him in the left thigh. She ending in a defensive stance which just managed to block a wicked jab from Gareth but the force of the attack knocked her back on her heals. Gareth took another swipe hoping to knock her off balance but a quick jump back corrected her stance. He growled angrily and began a series of quick short swings. Heidi easily blocked each swing with her daggers but found she was being driven back and unable to counter attack. Becky turned to see the two combatants parrying toward her. Becky brought up her hand gun and aimed for the beast. Gareth saw her from his advantage point and growled.

“Bringing another into our little skirmish isn’t very sporting.”

“I’m not too concerned with fighting fair.” Heidi replied still blocking his attacks, “Just winning.”

Becky fired of a round that went wide. It streaked passed Heidi’s head singeing her hair on the left side of her bangs. Heidi shot Becky a quick scowl.

“Whose side are you on?” She cried.

“Sorry!” Becky replied, “I told you I’ve never shot one of these.”

“Well…” Heidi started blocking another attack, “Aim more left.”

Gareth just chuckled as he continued to swing at the little Newman girl.

“Maybe you could just blast him with one of those techniques.” Becky suggested.

“Can’t.” Heidi puffed as she blocked three more swings, “Not enough TP left…..and not enough time.”

“And you don’t have a wand.” Gareth grinned, “And I’m not about to let you equip one.”

“Not a problem.” Heidi shrugged and this time she let his attack get through.

She twisted left so the claw just missed the front of her shirt then she dropped to her knees and with a swift jab of her foot, she kicked him in the cut on his leg then followed with a sweep of her leg taking out his right foot. He fell onto his butt and Heidi leaped forward onto him pinning his claw with her left dagger and her right holding at his throat. Becky rushed over holding her gun at his head. She figured at this range she couldn’t miss.

“Very clever Miss Kimble.” Gareth smiled.

He was hardly winded but Heidi was gasping for air.

“Key card.” She managed to squeeze in between breaths.

“What’s the matter Miss Kimble?” Gareth smirked, “I thought Guardians were in much better shape.”

“I don’t understand.” She gasped, “I can’t breathe properly.”

“Something smells funny.” Becky frowned and even she started having difficultly breathing.

“Maybe it’s my aftershave.” Gareth laughed.

“What have you done?” Heidi gasped feeling rather light headed.

“Just breathe deeply.” Gareth grinned.

An angry scowl crossed Heidi’s face and the smile quickly drained away from his face. Gareth knew he had erred and now he was about to pay. He felt the burning pain and felt his lungs begin to fill with his own blood as Heidi slid her dagger into his throat. He slumped to the floor gurgling his last breath. Heidi sat up and tried to climb off of him nearly falling over as Heidi head continued to spin. Becky quickly grabbed her under her arms and dragged her back. She dropped to the floor as her head became dizzy but it immediately started to clear now that they were away from Gareth.

“Is there no end to a beast’s trickery?” Heidi said gulping in the fresh air.

Becky took a couple deep breaths then gasped, “Heidi, you killed him!”

Heidi just nodded as she let her head clear.

“I can’t believe you killed him.” Becky gasped staring at her friend, “OK I new you might have to but not like that. It was so cold.”

“And how would you have like me to kill him?” Heidi snapped.

“Not at all really.” Becky replied meekly, “I hoped you might have just knocked him out.”

“Grow up Becky!” Heidi scolded her, “This is real life and it’s dangerous. People will try to kill you and you need to be ready to kill back!”

Heidi climbed to her feet and went to look for Gareth’s key card.

“Heidi I’m sorry.” Becky called after her, “I’m not a Guardian. I’m not trained to fight like you.”

She took several steps toward her friend stopping the middle of the hallway holding her hands in front of her and looking down at the floor. Heidi found the card in Bruno’s pocket and quickly picked it out. She stood up looking at the card then down at the dead beast. With an evil grin she kicked the body then turned and froze as Becky stared back at her. The grin fell from her face as she suddenly felt very ashamed of her actions. Her shoulders slumped and she held out her hands as she walked toward her friend.

“Becky, I’m sorry I didn’t mean it. I don’t know what came over me.”

A weak smile came across Becky’s face, “It’s OK, you’ve been through a lot.”

“More than you know.” Heidi sighed dropping her arms to her sides.

“Let’s just these girls out of here.” Becky grinned.

“Good idea.” Heidi smiled and tossed the card to Becky, “You unlock the cells. I’m going to grab my daggers.”

“OK.” Becky nodded and turned to free the girls.

Heidi turned and went back to Gareth where her daggers had fallen. She bent down and scooped up her weapons. She stared at the dead beast a moment before letting out a sigh. She was just about to stand up when the body suddenly sat up and lunged at her. Heidi screamed as she fell back and kicked trying to scurry away from the beast. Gareth continued forward getting to his feet and moving for Heidi. She quickly got to her feet and took a defensive stance. Gareth let out a sick hallow gurgling sound and the veins under his skin began to inflate and turn purple. His skin began to bulge and pulse as the fur started to fall out. Becky heard Heidi’s scream just as she swiped the card through the cell holding Teletha and three other girls. She turned and gasped dropping the card on the floor. Teletha rushed out of the cell first turning toward the scream. The other three girls rushed out then huddled behind Becky when they spotted the monster. Teletha let out a soft growl then picked up the card and shoved it into Becky’s hand.

“Quickly free the others.” She said then took Becky’s gun, “I’ll help Heidi with the Seed.”

Becky stood stunned for a second then nodded as she replied, “Right.”

Teletha rushed down the hallway stopping beside Heidi.

“This thing better be ready for a fight.”

“We’ll give it a good one.” Heidi smiled.

Gareth’s body completed its mutation finishing as a tall lean purple monster with long legs and arms. It barely fit in the hallway which Heidi hopped would limit its mobility.

“Cover me.” She said as rushed the monsters right.

Teletha fired several shots hoping to attract the creature’s attention. It didn’t. The monster lashed out at the rushing Newman and ignored the damage from the handgun. Heidi tried to duck the swinging arm but misjudged the reach. The claw caught her on the right shoulder and across the right side of her face just missing her eye. She dropped to the floor loosing grip on her dagger. She tried to reach up to her face but her right arm wouldn’t raise that high and replied with searing pain. The creature raised its arm to finish her. She rolled left just missing the chop coming up to her feet. She tried to stand straight but the pain in her half functioning arm forced her to bend in that direction. Teletha continued to fire as she rushed in. The creature took a swing with its left arm. Heidi raised her left dagger to block. The impact knocked her back and sent the dagger flying down the hall. The creature took another chop at Heidi. Teletha rushed up blocking the arm with her gun.

“I thought Guardians used line shields.” She grunted forcing the arm away.

“I do.” Heidi replied, “I don’t know why it isn’t working.

Teletha aimed the gun at Heidi.

“What are you doing?” Heidi cried.

Teletha fired. The photon bullet rammed into a wall of blue hexagons as Heidi braced for the shot.

“Seems fine to me.” Teletha replied turning back to the monster.

She fired a shot at its head knocking it back slightly.

“ARE YOU INSANE?” Heidi screamed, “You could have killed me.”

Teletha just shrugged and fired three more rapid shots. The creature bent forward and rushed the girls in a deadly charge. Teletha was knocked sideways into the wall and Heidi was simply bowled over. The stomping feet pounded down on her and she felt one of her ribs give out. She cried out in pain gripping her side. She spotted her dagger lying just out of reach. She pumped her legs pushing herself forward. She rapped her fingers around the hilt and pulled it close. The loud pounding on the stone floor drew her attention to the charging monster. She knew she couldn’t get to her feet in time so she rolled out of the way. Teletha stepped out firing several shots before side stepping the monster. Its claw caught her on the way passed spinning her around and slicing a deep cut across her left rib cage. She roared in pain but maintained the grip on the gun. She raised it and fired. Heidi climbed to her feet and readied her dagger. She still had some movement in her right arm so it wouldn’t be dead weight at least. She tried to charge the monster but the pain in her side stopped her. The creature charged again. Teletha fired into its chest but it didn’t even slow down. The beast women tried to avoid the charge and ended up getting squished between the creature and the wall. The creatures charged moved right slightly. Heidi took a swing catching it on the right arm but she was trampled any way. She got fortunate this time as the monsters feet missed her. She wanted to get up but the impact made her injuries even worse and she was now taking short gasps of air. Teletha was a little better as she was on her feet. Becky couldn’t stand it any longer. She handed the card to one of the other girls and rushed down the hall scooping up Heidi’s other dagger as she went. The monster turned and marched back to Heidi and Teletha. Its claw came down on the Newman who just got her dagger up in time. The claw came down pinning her dagger between it and her side. Teletha fired two shots and was rewarded with a claw smashing into her chest. The monster raked it across her as it pulled back. Teletha screamed and dropped to the floor. Becky rushed up behind the creature and took a chop driving it into the monsters back. She was shocked at how easily the S-red Blade cut through the monsters flesh. It roared and spun around swinging its arm. Becky didn’t see the attack and was sent flying back with a yelp. Heidi got to her knees and chopped her dagger into the monsters calf. It kicked back sending her skidding across the floor. This resulted in another broken rib. She closed her eyes and tried to draw on her technique power but nothing happened. Not enough time had passed from the last use so her TP hadn’t recharged enough. Becky climbed to her feet and rushed the monster. She didn’t even get close as a sweeping arm drove into her side, the tip of the sickle shaped claw driving between two ribs. She screamed as the creature tried to pick her up but the two ribs gave out with a sickening snap and Becky dropped the couple inches back to her feet. As soon as she hit the floor she crumpled into a ball. Heidi cried out for her friend and clawed at the floor trying to drag herself. Teletha forced her legs to push her up and gave a mighty roar. In a flash of bright light she transformed into a glowing blue beast. The monster’s attention shifted from the human to the threat. Teletha rushed forward clawing and scratching at the creature. It clawed back but she ignored the damage as she felt no pain in this state. The Seed monster didn’t stand a chance against the nanoblast and was quickly reduced to a pile of purple flesh. Teletha stood over the body breathing heavily waiting for her blast to end. The other girls slowly moved toward them still cautious that it might still be alive. Samuel came running down the hallway looking quite panicked and kept looking over his shoulder. Teletha finally reverted back in another flash then crumpled to the floor cut and bleeding. Becky sat up and crawled to the beast woman. She was glad the woman was still alive but she needed immediate medical attention.

“Seed.” Samuel exhaled, “They are every where. The whole town is crawling with them.”

“We know.” Becky frowned, “We just fought one.”

Samuel looked at the pile of flesh then to Heidi who was limping back to them and holding the side of her face in an attempt to stop the bleeding.

“My god.” Samuel gasped, “Where’s Gareth?”

No one answered but Heidi turned and looked at the dead body.

“No.” Samuel gasped again and dropped his head.

“I’m very sorry about your friend but he did try to kill us.” Becky frowned, “Teletha here needs help so how about it?”

Samuel looked down at the beast woman for a moment and nodded.

“OK, I’ll help but we have to move her.”

He turned to the group of women and pointed to four humans in the front.

“You four pick her up and follow me.” He said then addressed the rest, “Everyone else get to the loading docks. You will find an armoured transport there. Get into the cargo area and close the doors. You should be safe from any Seed attacks. I’ll be there right after I deal with these.”

The women just stood there looking at each other.

“What are you waiting for?” Becky asked climbing to her feet,” Get going!”

This prompted everyone into action. The four human girls picked Teletha up and followed Samuel to a small first aid room and placed the beast woman on the table. Heidi and Becky limped after them. Samuel nodded his thanks then urged the four girls to join the others. Heidi and Becky stayed by the door as Samuel pulled out a medical pack and went to work.

“She’s lost a lot of blood.” He said, “I can’t do much here. I’ll try to stabilize her and close some of these wounds.”

Becky nodded as she helped Heidi into a chair then started cleaning the cut on her face. The best she could do was to bandage it up until they could get to the hospital. Once that was done she moved to the nasty slice on Heidi’s shoulder. It too needed professional attention. Samuel glanced over his shoulder to make sure the two girls were occupied and pulled a small bottle of clear liquid from a drawer. He pulled a syringe from his pack and quietly filled it. He moved his body too slightly to block the girls view then injected Teletha with the liquid. He moved to the drawer and dropped the syringe into it as he pulled a roll of bandage out. He began wrapping some of her minor cuts. Heidi caught a glance and frowned wondering why he wasn’t dressing her more severe cuts. Teletha began to convulse. Samuel moved to hold her down so she wouldn’t fall off the table.

“What’s going on?” Heidi asked trying to stand but Becky held her down.

“I don’t know.” Samuel replied, “I’m not a doctor but I think she’s gone into shock.”

“Do something!” Becky pleaded.

“I told you I’m not a doctor.” Samuel snapped, “I don’t know what to do.”

Teletha relaxed as the seizure ended and lay still.

“No, no.” Samuel shook his head and climbed up onto the table.

He started CPR and artificial respiration. Becky and Heidi watched nervously until Samuel finally quite with a sigh. He turned to the two girls and shook his head slowly.

“No.” Becky gasped and started to cry.

Heidi just sat and glared at the beast man. Samuel slowly looked away from her gaze and climbed off the table. He washed his hands then pulled the door open stopping in the doorway.

“I’m sorry.” He said without looking at Heidi, “I tried my best but she was just too far gone.”

He slipped out the door letting it close with a soft click. Becky moved to Teletha and cried into her arm. Heidi painfully climbed to her feet then patted Becky on the back with her good arm. She looked down at the beast woman and felt the tears drip from her eyes. She wiped them away with a sniff. She checked the first aid kit for some pain killers but found none. She started searching through the cupboards and drawers finally finding the syringe. She eyed it closely then gave the tip a sniff. It had an alcohol smell to it. She tossed the syringe across the room with a curse. Becky wiped her eyes and looked over at her fuming friend.

“I am going to ripe his heart out.” Heidi growled and stormed out the door.

Becky followed her friend but kept her distance. She found Heidi in the loading bay with her fists clenched and staring at the open door.

“He left.” Becky said softly, “With out us.”

“Of coarse he did.” Heidi growled, “We’re damaged goods. He killed Teletha and made off with the other girls.”

“We didn’t help anyone.” Becky sighed feeling completely defeated.

Several people ran passed the door panicked and screaming.

“Come on.” Heidi said tugging on Becky’s arm, “We better get out of here. We still have a cousin to find.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Heidi and Becky managed to slip out of town without attracting the attention of the Seed. They even found a working transport parked in an alleyway. Screams and crying had filled the streets as citizens scrambled about trying to avoid the marching Seed creatures. Worse yet the virus that mutated people into horrible monsters just like Bruno was spreading like wildfire. It had taken them most of the after noon slinking down alley ways and side streets before they had found the transport and even then it had taken them a while to get out of town. Night was now approaching as the sun had just sunk beneath the horizon. Now well on their way with the town sinking in the distance, Heidi couldn’t help but look back and feel guilty for leaving all those innocent people to die at the hands of the Seed. She turned away from the side mirror and sat back in her seat, her head slumping back against the head rest. Becky sat in the driver seat as she was in better condition than the Newman. Heidi had lost a lot of blood and now struggled to maintain consciousness. Becky looked over at her friend to make sure she was still awake and managed a weak smile when Heidi looked back at her. She turned her attention back to the road then discreetly lifted her shirt to check on her own bandage. She had quickly patched herself up while Samuel had been working on Teletha. She said a silent curse as the bandage continued to become blood soaked. She was still slowly bleeding and the bandage wasn’t stopping it. She slid her shirt back down over it and quickly checked to see if Heidi had seen her. Heidi’s head was slumped off to the side, her breathing slow and rhythmic. She was asleep but she looked stable at least. If they could make it back to the next town they could get medical help and water. Becky gripped her side as a wave of pain shot through her wound. It only lasted a second but it hurt none the same. She tried to take a deep breath but even that hurt. Sato meowed softly at the young woman. Becky smiled back and patted the Mag on the head.

“It’s ok, I’m fine.” She smiled

Sato kept quiet but she nuzzled up against her new friends leg. Becky turned back to the road and had to swerve quickly to keep from running of the path. Once she had regained control she quickly checked on her friend but Heidi remained asleep.

“Sleep would be so nice right now.” She sighed.

Sato meowed again.

“I know, I know.” Becky shook her head, “We stop know and we both might die.”

She continued on down the road glancing in her side mirror. One of the stars low in the horizon seemed brighter than normal. She kept watch on it as she drove and indeed it kept getting bigger and brighter. The roar of a ships engine soon thundered across the desert as a small rogue ship flew in over the transport. Giant spot lights beamed down over the transport and Becky heard grappling hooks pierce the roof of the cargo area. An EMP burst shot down from the ship disabling the engine. The transport settled down on the ground and three loud thumps came from the roof. Becky shook Heidi trying to wake her without making a sound. The Newman groaned but didn’t wake. Becky froze as she heard voices of the rogues. They began cutting holes in the metal then dropped down into the cargo area.

“Hey, what’s going on here?” One of them cried.

“Ya, where’s the stuff?” Another said in a gruffer voice.

“What kind of transport doesn’t carry anything?” The first one said, “Check the cab and ask the driver.”

“Duh, OK.” A third deep voice said.

Becky remained quiet listening to the footsteps approach her door. A big dog faced beast man appeared in the window. He smiled when he say Becky then turned to the back of the transport.

“Duh, hey Hiru, there’s a couple girls here.” He said.

“Girls, alright.” The deeper voice replied.

“Pipe down No.” Hiru said, “Let’s see what we got first shall we?”

“Huh, oh ya lets.” No nodded.

The short pink afro haired Newman popped his head up into the window with a little help from his big younger brother Do. He grinned and signalled for the beast man to set him down. The human named No dropped down from the roof and waited eagerly as Do opened the door.

“Welcome my dear.” Hiru smiled with a slight bow, “This is your lucky day. You’ve been found by…”

“The Vol brothers.” The trio said.

“Now if you’d be so kind as to step from your broken vessel...” Hiru said trying to sound smarter than he really was, “We will escort you to your new home.”

Becky just stared back at them for a moment before finally climbing down from the cab.

“You aren’t going to hurt me are you?” She asked softly.

Hiru looked at her and spotted the small trail of blood running down from under her shirt.

“Looks like some one already did.” He shrugged.

Sato floated over to the open door and hissed at the three men. They turned around and stared at the Mag.

“Duh Hiru, isn’t that?” Do began.

“Sure looks like it Do.” Hiru nodded.

No moved in front of the door and shone his flashlight in side.

“Hey, that looks like…” He gasped, “Could it be?”

“Don’t just stand there.” Hiru scolded slapping No across the head, which was a real stretch for him, “Get the poor girl out of there.”

No moved in to pull Heidi out. Sato moved out of his way and floated over to Becky. No carefully removed Heidi from the cab and set her down on the sand. Hiru moved in checking her bandages over then shook his head and turned to Becky.

“Where have you been?”

“Aramosa.” Becky replied, “It was attacked by Seed.”

“You better come with us.” Hiru shrugged, “You’ll be safe with us and Tylor will get you fixed up.”

“Wait, what’s going on here?” Becky frowned.

“Don’t worry sweetie.” Hiru smiled, “Any friend of Heidi’s is a friend to us isn’t that right?”
“Uh ya.” No nodded.

“Duh ya that’s right.” Do agreed.

Hiru moved over to the ship and called for a couple lift cables. They got Heidi and Becky on board then turned and headed back south. Becky was seated by a window and stared down as Aramosa passed by. It was lit up by several fires and she could see several small explosions go off in the streets from the remaining survivors still fighting. Hiru moved in beside her and peered out the window. He pulled his head away and slumped down in the seat beside her.

“When we get back I’ll get Tylor to send help for who ever is left.”

“Thank you.” Becky said softly letting her head rest against the glass.


Heidi awoke in a dark cool room. Panic washed over her and she tried to sit up but she quickly tangled herself in the I.V. tubes connected to her arms. She laid back down on the bed and calmed herself down before sitting up again. The only light in the room was from the display on her life monitor that was accompanied by the rhythmic beeping the machine produced to replicate her heartbeat. She pawed at her arms until she got the needles on the I.V. tubes to pull out then she pulled off the electrodes stuck to her chest. She swung her feet off the bed and dropped to the floor. The metal floor was cold under her bare feet. She quietly slid across the floor keeping her arms out to keep from bumping into anything. She found the wall and began searching for the light switch. The lights suddenly flicked on as the door slid open. A small child like beast girl appeared in the door. She smiled at Heidi and slid all the way in.

“You had us worried there for a bit.” She said.

“Liina!” Heidi grinned, “That must mean I’m in Tylor’s hideout.”

“Yep.” Liina nodded, “We’re just lucky those three idiots found you when they did. Guess they had to get something right eventually.”

“I was rescued by the Vol brothers?” Heidi gasped then sighed, “I’ll never be able to live down the humiliation.”

Liina laughed then waved Heidi to follow her.

“Where’s Becky?” Heidi asked.

“I’m not sure exactly.” Liina shrugged, “Don’t worry, she’s fine. We got her all patched up and she’s wandering around here somewhere.”

“Liina, I need your help.” Heidi said as they boarded an elevator, “Yours and Tylors I mean.”

“I know.” Liina nodded, “Becky told us all about it. Including your new found power.”

“Ya, that was a bit of a surprise for me too.” Heidi replied scratching the back of her head, “Only problem is I seem to be able to use it only when I get mad.”

“I’ll try not to get you mad then.” Liina grinned.

“You don’t have anything to worry about.” Heidi smiled back, “You could never get me that mad.”

The elevator door slid open and the two girls stepped off entering Tylor’s large office. The rogue leader was seated behind a large oak desk, one of the perks of his new position. On the view screen Heidi could see the image of Laia Martinez the Guardians president. Heidi froze in place not wanting to talk to Laia.

“What’s the matter?” Liina asked.

“I don’t want Laia to know I’m here.” Heidi replied.

“Why?” Liina frowned.

“Cause she doesn’t know I’m here on Moatoob and has no idea what I’ve been up too.” Heidi replied, “If she finds out she’ll order me back to the colony and I’ll never find my cousin.”

“Stay here.” Liina waved, “I’ll take care of everything.”

Heidi nodded and watch the little beast woman trot off down the slopping floor to Tylors desk. She whispered something into Tylor’s ear to which Tylor just nodded.

“Something wrong Tylor?” Laia frowned.

“Not at all.” Tylor smirked back, “My guest has arrived. Don’t worry I’ll send the Vol brothers out to the confinement site to help with the set up. They aren’t the brightest but they do follow orders.”

“Very good.” Laia nodded, “Parum and Neudaiz are ahead of schedule so as Guardians are freed up at those sites I’ll direct some of them your way.”

“Thanks Laia.” Tylor replied, “Any help is appreciated.”

He tapped the screen ending the communication then waved Heidi forward. Heidi moved slow but steady down to Tylor’s desk.

“I’m glad to see you’re feeling better.” Tylor waved to a chair, “You had us worried.”

“So Liina tells me.” Heidi said taking a seat.

“You’re friend told us of your adventure up to this point so I won’t make you repeat it.” Tylor said.

“Thank you.” Heidi nodded.

“So, you’re searching for your missing cousin.” Tylor continued.

“That’s right.” Heidi confirmed.

“And she is being held by the Illuminus.” Tylor frowned.

“So I’m told.” Heidi shrugged.

“This is not good news.” Tylor sighed sitting back in his chair, “We don’t know where their main base is. We checked out the location Iceberg and Isis had infiltrated but the entire place had been cleared out. I’m sure they will be back, it’s too profitable to abandon completely.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Heidi tapped her fingers together, “The Illuminus’ actions lately haven’t exactly been typical.”

“True, I’m not sure what Lutz is up too.” Tylor shook his head, “The best we can do for you is drop you off at a southern mine we know to be under Illuminus control.”

“Thank you Tylor.” Heidi smiled, “I owe you one, actually two.”

“If you find the Illuminus base make sure I’m the first to know and I’ll call it even.” Tylor replied.

“Deal.” Heidi grinned shaking his hand.

Heidi followed Liina back out to the elevator. Liina hit the button and the elevator began to descend.

“We’ll give you what ever supplies you need.” Liina said with a smile, “I’ll arrange someone to transport you to the site.”

“I need some one to check my linesheild before I depart.” Heidi nodded, “For some strange reason it wouldn’t stop any of the attacks from the Seed creatures we encountered at Aramosa.”

“Alright, Becky has all of your equipment in her room.” Liina said.

The elevator opened and the two girls stepped off. Liina took Heidi to Becky’s room where indeed all her equipment was waiting for her. She scooped up her nanotransformer and slapped it on her back. Her clothes where placed in a neat pile next to her weapons. They had all been cleaned and repaired. Heidi slipped into them then stored her S-red daggers and her Ruby Bullet in the transformer then handed her linesheild over to Liina.

“This shouldn’t take long.” Liina said and scurried out of the room.

Heidi turned to the mirror on the wall and sighed at the pathetic looking girl staring back at her. She was pretty beat up but at least the medical treatment was healing her neatly. She would most likely walk away with this without a scare across her face. She picked up a hair brush off the dresser and quickly cleaned up the tangled mess on her head. When she finished it looked much better but still no where near the usual stylish neatness she usually kept it. She was even missing the flower that always sat on the left side of her head. She sighed softly then headed out into the halls in search of Becky. She found her and Sato in one of the hanger bays staring out the open bay door. Heidi strolled over to the door stopping beside Becky. She remained quiet and just stared out across the desert.

“I’m glad to see you’re feeling better.” Becky finally said.

“Thanks to you.” Heidi replied, “I don’t think I would have made it otherwise.”

“That’s what best friends do.” Becky replied.

This made Heidi turn to her friend with an upraised eyebrow.

“You are my best friend.” Becky said looking at her feet, “I’ve never had a friend who’d risk their life for me. Sure there’s girls I hang out with and do stuff. I’ve never had anyone who I could turn to with my inner most secrets. Look at me now.”

Becky looked up and smiled.

“To be honest, I’ve never had a best friend before either.” Heidi replied and hugged Becky tightly.

Heidi suddenly opened her eyes, staring straight ahead and said, “You can come in now Liina.”

The little beast woman stepped from the open doorway and into the hanger. The two friends released their embrace and turned to the beast girl.

“How did you know she was there?” Becky frowned.

“Newman hearing.” Heidi smiled tapping her ear.

“We’ve checked your linesheild.” Liina said walking over to the girls, “We can’t find anything wrong with it.”

She handed it back to Heidi who equipped it to her arm.

“The fact that is was useless against the Aramosa Seed attack has Tylor worried.” Liina said, “He’s going to send in a small team to, uh, collect samples.”

“Tell them to be careful.” Heidi said, “One creature took out three of us.”

“It’s not like I put up much of a challenge.” Becky frowned.

“The shuttle is ready to take you south.” Liina said to Heidi, “They’re waiting in the eastern hanger bay where the Landeel is parked.”

“Thanks Liina.” Heidi nodded then turned to Becky, “This is going to be very dangerous. Even more so than the Seed so as much as I’d like, I can’t ask you to come along.”

“Good thing you don’t have to ask.” Becky grinned.

Sato gave a happy meow and floated over to Heidi’s shoulder.

“Then you are going to need a line shield and some weapons.” Heidi smiled.

“Already taken care of.” Becky replied holding up her left arm, “Apparently I am a gunner.”
Becky shrugged as she drew her long bow from her newly acquired nanotransformer.

“I hope you’re a better shot with that than you were with a hand gun.” Heidi smirked.

“In case I’m not they gave me one of those too.” Becky replied with a chuckle.

“I’m doomed.” Heidi giggled.

The two girls continued to laugh and joke all the way to the hanger bay.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER TWELVE

The flyer ride south may have been uneventful but it was anything but dull. Normally a flyer would be several thousand feet off the ground but the rouge flyer was only a couple hundred feet up. To avoid the Illuminus surveillance equipment the pilot had to stay low and follow the cannons. Heidi gripped the arm rest of her seat as the flyer strafed and twisted around rock formations and over hanging ledges. The flyer slowed as it approached the end of this particular valley they had been following. It pitched up and just hopped up over the edge landing softly on the top.

“OK, out quickly.” The pilot said, “It won’t take them long to get here and I don’t want to be around when they show.”

“Thanks for the concern.” Heidi muttered as she unbuckled herself.

She and Becky quickly disembarked from the aircraft and got clear of the blast zone. The flyer lifted off the ground, turned a hundred and eighty degrees, and then dove back into the valley. Becky and Heidi turned their backs to the valley and looked out over the flat desert before them.

“So this mine is just a short hike to the next valley huh.” Becky frowned adjusting her backpack.

They had packed both nanotransformers full of supplies then filled a couple packs with water and monomates.

“Yep.” Heidi nodded, “Let’s go.”

Heidi took a step forward when a gigantic explosion shook the ground. The girls spun around to see the flaming wreckage of the flyer crash to the valley floor.

“By the holy light.” Becky gasped.

“Should have seen that coming.” Heidi muttered, “We’ve been detected. Let’s get out of here quickly.”

Becky nodded and the two girls took off across the hard desert ground at full run. They kept the pace up for a while until the heat and sun took its toll and they could go no further. Heidi stopped first pulling a bottle from her pack. Becky collapsed to her knees taking deep breaths before drawing a bottle from her pack. Heidi downed a heavy swallow then pulled her cap of to wipe the sweat from her head. Becky took her cap off then splashed a little water on her forehead wiping it with her sleeve.

“I thought girls weren’t supposed to sweat.” She sighed.

“That’s ladies.” Heidi smiled, “And we are anything but ladies.”

“Speak for yourself.” Becky smirked and but her cap back on, “I would have preferred short sleeve shirts.”

“These will keep us from burning in this hot sun and it’s supposed to be light enough that it’s actually cooler with it on.” Heidi shrugged, “I’m not sure about the last part but I don’t really feel like a nasty sunburn today.”

“I guess not.” Becky shrugged and climbed to her feet, “Think we’ve lost them?”

“I’m going to err on the side of caution and say no.” Heidi replied, “But I think we have put enough distance so we don’t have to run.”

“That’s good.” Becky nodded, “Hiking is bad enough.”

It turned out to be a hefty hike to the mining site but they made it without seeing any sign of pursuers. They stopped at the ledge of the mining pit to survey the site. Security didn’t seem that high but there were plenty of guards to oversee the beast slaves. Heidi spotted a shielded spot behind an excavator where they could descend into the pit. They carefully slid down the slope stopping behind the large piece of equipment. Heidi peered around the edge just as a naked beast slave stumbled by. She quickly tucked back hoping she hadn’t been seen. Becky peered out for a second to see the beast heading away.

“Good thing these guys have a thick coat of fur covering up their shame.” She shook her head.

“What’s the matter?” Heidi grinned, “Big strapping muscular beast men not your type?”

Becky just frowned.

“Me either.” Heidi chuckled patting her shoulder, “Let’s move.”

Becky nodded then followed her friend over to some large storage crates. They continued to slink across the mining area finally stopping at the office buildings. A well built human exited the building they were hiding behind and headed for the elevator that descended underground. Heidi bolted around the corner catching the door just before it swung shut. The office buildings were nothing more than makeshift sheds that could be quickly taken down and moved. There were a couple tables covered in paper work and a single desk containing the only computer terminal.

“I’ve never seen anything so primitive.” Becky gasped.

“Travel Moatoob enough and you’ll get used to it.” Heidi replied sitting down at the desk.

Becky remained at the door to keep watch. Heidi tapped the computer terminal bringing the display to life. It was the work order and manifest for the Illuminus supply orders. Bosley’s company was one of hundreds of companies on the order list. GRM was listed several times followed closely by Yohomei.

“Neudaiz is getting supplies from the Illuminus.” Heidi gasped quietly.

She continued to scan through the data base but couldn’t find any listing of any Illuminus member by name or location. She wasn’t going to find her cousin in here. Becky waved at her as the human was headed back. The two girls quickly bolted out of office and around the back. They waited for him to enter the shed making sure they hadn’t been spotted.

“Now what?” Becky asked.

“We need to find an employee list.” Heidi replied, “I need to know what Illuminus members are working here. Hopefully Howzer or at least a Magashi is overseeing this place.”

“A Magashi?” Becky frowned.

“A cast clone of Howzer.” Heidi replied, “And there are a lot of them.”

“That’s convenient.” Becky smirked.

“We need to talk to one of these slaves.” Heidi said just as she spotted her victim.

She quietly slunk away with Becky following at a distance. Heidi stayed focused on a small beast woman working a mining cart trusting that Becky was watching her back. She slipped between a couple cargo crates. She pulled a dagger from her transformer then looked to make sure there were no witnesses. She sprang out and grabbed the beast woman by the mouth, placing her dagger at the woman’s throat then dragged her back to the crates.

“OK, I’m going to remove my hand and you’re going to stay quiet, right?” Heidi whispered in her ear.

The woman nodded nervously. Heidi slowly pulled her hand away in case the woman decided to scream. When she didn’t, Heidi relaxed a little.

“All I want is a little information.” Heidi hissed.

“I… I don’t know anything.” The woman quivered, “I’m just a slave.”

“Which means you know a lot more about this place than I do.” Heidi replied, “I want the mines employee list. Or at least who’s in charge here. Is it Howzer or Magashi?”

“I don’t know who those are.” The woman replied, “The man in charge here is a human named Cornelius.”

“Where can I find him?” Heidi asked.

“The main office on the first floor of the mine.” The woman pointed to the pit, “But you’ll never get down there without being spotted. Flee this place while you’re still free.”

“Sorry, I have a cousin to find.” Heidi shook her head, “And the Illuminus have her.”

“If that’s true.” The woman paused for a second, “She’s with Howzer, if she’s still alive.”

Heidi released the woman and stowed her dagger.

“I have to find her.” Heidi sighed, “If Cornelius knows where I can find Howzer then I must speak to him.”

“Good luck to you then.” The woman said and turned for her cart, “You’re going to need it.”

“I make my own luck.” Heidi muttered.

Becky came running up behind her and grabbed her shoulder.

“We’ve got trouble.” She said turning Heidi towards the office building, “Looks like they know we’re here.”

“More bad news.” Heidi replied.

“What now?” Becky gasped.

“We have to go into the mine.” Heidi smirked then headed for another set of cargo crates.


“What!” Becky gasped, “You’re kidding right? Heidi? Heidi!”

With a deep exhaled breath Becky followed her friend as they moved closer to the mine entrance. Human and Cast guards were moving about the pit looking for signs of intruders. Heidi bolted across an open area ducking behind a row of carts. Becky skidded in behind her. She started to protest but Heidi clamped her hand on Becky’s mouth and shushed her. A short bulky cast marched by on the other side of the carts. Lucky for them he didn’t check behind the carts. Heidi released Becky and moved to a pile of rocks. She peered around the pile spotting three guards standing beside the elevator.

“Blast.” She cursed quietly.

“Now what?” Becky whispered.

“Distraction.” Heidi replied.

“No way, I’m not…” Becky started to protest.

“Not you.” Heidi stopped her, “Me.”

“What are you going to do?” Becky frowned growing concerned that Heidi might do something stupid.

“Watch.” Heidi said holding up her finger.

She turned and peered around the rock scanning the field. Behind the elevator was a stack of photon reactor crates for the mining equipment below. That was her target. She closed her eyes and held her hand out. The image of the crates appeared in her mind. A large ghostly hand formed in the forefront of her mind. It was happening again just like before in the Landeel when she was trapped in the turret and about to be destroyed by the rogue A.M.F. ships. This didn’t feel as strong as her previous attacks but she was more in control of this. Those power outbursts had her in more of a trance, strictly focused on her target. Here she remained aware of her surroundings. She was calm and cool. No anger and no burning blood. No hate. She moved the hand to the crates and felt the flame of a Gifoie blast flow from her to the power cores. The pile of crates erupted in flame. Everyone scrambled to contain the fire. The guards moved from the elevator clearing their path. Heidi opened her eyes, grabbed Becky’s arm and bolted for the elevator. She pounded the down button as soon as they were on and the elevator began its descent. This caught the attention of one guard who turned and headed back.

“That was impressive.” Becky said, “But it didn’t look as strong as before.”

“That’s what it’s supposed to be like.” Heidi shrugged, “I’m not sure what that those other two were but I don’t really like them very much.”

Becky frowned.

“Too much anger and hate.” Heidi clarified, “It leaves me feeling really… well bad I guess.”

“Ah.” Becky nodded.

The elevator jerked to a sudden halt, then started back up.

“We need off now.” Heidi said drawing her daggers, “I hope this works.”

She dropped her pack and moved to the elevator doorway.

“Climb on my back.” Heidi said.

“What are you planning?” Becky frowned.

“No time just do it!”

Becky quickly took hold of Heidi and closed her eyes. Heidi took a step back then leapt from the elevator toward the rock wall. Her daggers dug deep into the rock and started to slide down a bit before stopping. The two girls clung to the wall for a moment as the elevator made its way back up. Heidi looked down to check her descent path then pulled a dagger free and began the climb down. The climb was long and tiring and several times the girls had to carefully switch spots. Becky nearly lost her grip a couple of times but Heidi was always ready to catch her or the falling dagger. They both let out a big sigh of relief when Becky finally touched down on the rock floor. The girls collapsed to the floor panting heavily.

“I do not want to do that again.” Becky exhaled.

“Me either.” Heidi agreed, “Think any one saw us?”

“Someone up stairs did.” Becky shrugged, “So why didn’t they come after us?”

“And why is there no greeting party waiting down here?” Heidi frowned scanning the area.

There were several beast slaves and guards working the main track lines a fair distance away but no one seemed to pay the visitors any attention. Heidi climbed to her feet and took back the daggers, storing them in her nanotransformer.

“This is too odd.” Heidi frowned as she helped Becky to her feet.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” Becky shook her head.

“Me too.” Heidi nodded.

She cautiously moved left out of the elevator shaft towards a row of mining carts that they could use for cover. Heidi crept along the row peering around the end. She spotted the main office building not too far away. It was a simple structure carved from the very rock with a line of large windows set into the side facing the tracks so the entire operation could be monitored without ever getting up from the desks. Heidi could see at least three people moving about in there. She waved for Becky to follow then charged across the cart tracks and burst through the office door with daggers drawn.

I want to talk to Cornelius and I want to talk to him now.” She demanded.

The people in the office casually turned and regarded her with disinterest. One man just shrugged and they went back to work as nothing had happened. Becky ran up behind Heidi with gun drawn but quickly lowered it when she saw that no one was paying them any attention.

“Hello people.” Heidi called, “Crazed Newman waving weapons here.”

“I don’t think they’re buying it.” Becky shook her head when no one responded.

Heidi frowned and marched over to the nearest desk were a young woman was working. She drove her dagger into the woman’s paperwork.

“I’m not kidding.” Heidi growled, “Cornelius, where is he?”

The woman just continued to work around the dagger seeming completely unaware that she was being threatened. Confused, Heidi with drew her dagger and backed up a step. Becky went over to a man bent over a computer screen. She waved her hand in front of his face. She stopped when she didn’t get any reaction.

“Heidi, I don’t think these people are all there.” Becky frowned.

Heidi walked over to an unoccupied desk and swiped her hand across it knocking several papers on the floor.

“I think you’re right.” She said when no one responded, “These people don’t seem to even know we’re here.”

“So how do we find Cornelius?” Becky asked.

“Cornelius has found you.”

The girls turned to the door where a tall heavy set man was standing with three guards standing behind him

“It would seem.” He smirked, “I have known of your presence here since you landed. I wanted to know what you’re up too.”

“I’m looking for my cousin.” Heidi replied, “She was sold to the Illuminus from Aramosa.”

“We don’t keep slave girls here.” Cornelius shook his head, “Just slave labour.”

Becky shot him a scowl which he simply ignored.

“I know but I also know this is an Illuminus mining operation.” Heidi said, “Either you know where Howzer is hiding or you know someone who does.”

“Perhaps but since you are never leaving here I see no reason to tell you anything.” Cornelius shrugged.

“Don’t be so sure of that.” Heidi said taking a defensive stance.

“Are you really fast enough to out run a bullet?” Cornelius smirked.

“I don’t have to out run all of them.” Heidi smirked back, “Just enough to get to you.”

She sprang forward with daggers leading the way. Cornelius gasped and stepped back.

“Fire!” He ordered.

The guards stepped up and fired at the charging Newman. Becky dropped to her knees making her a smaller target and fired back. Heidi weaved and dodged but still took several hits to her line shield. She drove her dagger in to the belly of the middle guard and quickly swiped with the other taking out the guard on her left. She spun to her right taking a point blank hit before slicing the barrel off the guard’s rifle then drove the tip of the other dagger in to the guns photon pack shorting it out. The guard quickly dropped the gun raising his hands and backing away.

“Good boy.” Heidi winked then turned to Cornelius who was still trying to slink away, “Howzer, where can I find him.”

Cornelius slowly turned around with a sheepish grin on his face.

“Seems I overestimated the usefulness of my guards.” He shrugged.

The fact he blamed his guards and not himself for underestimating her was not lost on Heidi.

“Guess they just weren’t as motivated as me.” She shrugged placing a dagger to his throat, “Howzer.”

“There’s no guarantee he has her.” Cornelius stammered.

“Howzer!” Heidi demanded pushing the dagger forward into his throat.

“All right, he’s in a secret base located in a small rocky mountain just south of here.” Cornelius surrendered, “You’ll never find it.”

“Yes I will.” Heidi said spinning the man around, “Because you are going to take me there.”

“What!” He tried to protest but she jabbed him in the back with a dagger.

“Move!”

She led him back to the elevator where the three waited for the elevator to come down. No one paid any attention to the kidnapping and Cornelius began to curse the effectiveness of the Illuminus mind control device. He would never let these Guardians know of it of course. He let Heidi force him on to the elevator knowing his guards would be waiting at the top. All he had to do was keep quiet and be patient. The elevator reached the top and the three stepped off. They were surrounded by every guard on the surface all with guns trained on the Guardians. Becky gasped and crept behind Heidi.

“Ah poor Guardian.” Cornelius chuckled, “Looks like the little mouse is caught.”

“You haven’t seen anything yet.” Heidi replied and closed her eyes.

Cornelius tried to look over his shoulder to see what the girl was up too. Her tone had made him suddenly uncomfortable. The sudden blast of a Rafoie attack made him jump. A series of chained attacks flowed around the camp blasting away the guards. When it was over Heidi opened her eyes and exhaled heavily feeling quite exhausted. Cornelius smirked slightly. Heidi jabbed him forcing him into motion. He led them to his private flyer. He opened the rear hatch and nodded. Heidi motioned for Becky to check it out. Cornelius waited for the girl to disappear inside then lunged at Heidi, but her quick reflexes prevented him from grabbing her. He growled and charged again grabbing a pipe that was leaning up against a refuelling barrel. He swung at Heidi several times. She blocked each attack then swung at him slicing a chunk of pipe off. He growled and tossed the remaining bit at her. She ducked as the pipe flew passed her head. He charged ramming into her knocking her to the ground. He tried to jump on her but she rolled to the side coming up to her feet. He lunged at her again. She swung a dagger catching him in the arm. The sudden shot of pain stopped him dead in his tracks. Heidi slid forward stopping close to him with her dagger poised to drive into his belly.

“Are you finished or shall we continue this to its very short conclusion?” She asked.

“I yield.” He sighed.

She nodded then followed him aboard the flyer.


The flyer floated along the high altitude air currents giving it’s passengers an uneventful ride. Cornelius sat at the pilot seat concentrating on his course. Becky sat in the back passenger seat staring out at the desert far below her as she reflected on all she had been through. Back on Parum she had just been another young human woman among a sea of other human women. The worst she ever had to deal with was the racial treatment from the casts. Then she had been taken from her friends and family, stolen from her home, stripped of her freedom and rights and forced to serve the beasts of Moatoob. They hadn’t mistreated her physically but she had been torn and raped mentally, beaten to submission. A tear broke loose from her eye and dripped down her cheek. She wiped it away with a sniffle and turned to look at the white haired woman sitting in the seat beside her. How her life had changed after meeting her. This strange Newman girl had shown her compassion and concern even though they had never met. She had an inner strength that seemed to radiate to everyone around her. If it hadn’t been for her, Becky was sure she wouldn’t have made it this far. Becky would still be a slave for a perverted beast man. Since befriending Heidi, Becky had not only seen what true inner strength was but had even discovered it in herself. She smiled at her best friend who sat with her head forward and eyes closed. The smile drained from Becky’s face as she watched Heidi’s fists clench and relax. Her breathing was heavy and pained; sweat began to form on her forehead. Becky climbed from her seat and placed a hand on Heidi’s shoulder. Heidi awoke suddenly crying out Clarissa’s name. She took several deep breaths before looking up into Becky’s concerned eyes. Heidi smiled and relaxed as Becky returned to her seat after Heidi assured her, she was alright. Becky closed her eyes and let her head slump against the flyers glass canopy. Heidi was still troubled by Clarissa’s death. Tearing her up was more like it. Becky had thought she had gotten over the worst of it but she still blamed herself for Clarissa’s death it seemed. Becky wanted to help but she wasn’t sure how. The flyer began to descend shaking Becky from her thoughts. She watched the ground get closer as the flyer settled down near a large canyon. Heidi opened the rear hatch but it was Becky who was first off. Heidi started down the ramp but stopped when Cornelius failed to move any further than the door.

“The entrance is at the far end.” He nodded, “That’s were you need to head.”

“Oh no, you’re coming too.” Heidi said as she turned to face him.

“And die in this waste land, I don’t think so.”

He kicked Heidi hard in the chest knocking her down the ramp. He laughed as he turned to head back to the cockpit. His laughing stopped as he felt something tap him in the chest. He looked down to see a small smouldering hole. He took a sudden short breath and slowly turned around as shock started to set in. He looked down to see Becky’s handgun pointed at him.

“You… you shot me.” He said then collapsed on the ramp.

Heidi stared at the dead man for a moment then over at her friend. Becky slowly lowered the gun and let it drop to the ground. Heidi climbed to her feet but remained quiet.

“I killed him.” Becky stated

Heidi nodded.

“Just like that, I shot him.” Becky said slowly turned her head to Heidi, “I… he didn’t even have a weapon.”

Heidi went and hugged her friend tightly, “He was going to leave us here.”

“He’s dead and I killed him.” Becky started to cry.

“Yes, but you saved us.” Heidi said looking Becky in the eyes, “And now we have a way out of here.”

Becky wiped the tears away sniffing back the rest.

“But we wanted to come here.”

“We wanted the Illuminus base.” Heidi corrected her, “I don’t think this is it.”

A roar followed by the sound of twisting metal blasted out from the other side of the flyer. Heidi scooped up the hand gun and forced it into Becky’s hand before charging around the flyer. She skidded to a stop as her gaze fell upon a giant Bil De Vear with massive raking claws. It was busy tearing the side of the flyer apart. Twisted sheet metal, wires, and vital components already littered the ground and the beast had only taken two swipes. Heidi drew her daggers then closed her eyes. Becky bolted around from behind stopping beside Heidi who flashed with a red light, followed by blue, yellow and white. Becky looked down to see she too was now flashing the four colours. Heidi opened her eyes and smiled.

“Yes it worked.” She pumped her arm.

“I take it you don’t usually get Buffs to work.” Becky frowned

“They usually end up Debuffing.” Heidi shrugged.

“What no Giresta or Rentis?” Becky smirked.

“I don’t have any disks on those and haven’t figured out how to do them on my own yet.” Heidi replied moving toward the Bil de vear.

“Disks?” Becky frowned.

Heidi grinned but didn’t reply. Becky didn’t know she was referring to the technique disks Cerberus had brought from Ragol that explained how to perform techniques using your own mental energy. Giresta and Rentis were Gurhal techniques and never existed on Ragol. Retier and Zodial were also Gurhal exclusive buffs that boosted mental energy and accuracy but they were similar to Shifta and Deband which she did have disks on. It turned out the four buffs were very similar so she had little difficultly figuring out the two missing ones. Giresta brought dead people back, healing wounds like Resta and produced a side affect of time limited health regeneration. Rentis formed a protective barrier that protected one from technique attacks. These were very complex techniques and Heidi doubted very much she would ever learn them. She shook the thought from her head and turned her concentration on the monster. It took another swipe tearing out the port engines power stabilizer. The unit crashed to the ground right at the girl’s feet. Heidi looked down at the completely destroyed device then glared up at the monster.

“You are so going down!” She yelled.

The Bil De Vear turned to face the threat. Becky fired first missing with her first two shots but the third nailed the creature in the left shoulder. Heidi sprang forward slashing at the monsters leg as she rushed passed. It roared and started to turn. Becky fired again hitting it in the arm. This brought its attention back to her. Heidi rushed in leaping up and driving her S red blades into the creatures back. It roared in pain and tried clawing at her. Becky continued to fire blasting away flesh and fur. Heidi used her daggers to climb up the monster back leaving deep nasty cuts in her path. Knowing it had no way of getting her, the Bil De Vear rose up off the ground and began to spin. The centrifugal force sent Heidi flying off. She crashed to the ground receiving several nasty scratches from the stones. She was quick to her feet. The monster was charging at Becky who backed up as she pumped photon bullets into the creature. Heidi pumped her legs, charging at the creature as it drove Becky toward the rocky ledge. The Bil De Vear took a swipe at Becky who just managed to duck. The second swipe raked the ground knocking her back landing right at the edge. Heidi charged in swinging at the monsters legs. The daggers drove deep slashing away skin and muscle tissue. The monster turned and took a sweeping swing at her. She jumped to the side just missing the claw and drove both daggers into its leg. One blade cut clean through the muscle and tendons. The blade that followed finished the job as it sliced through the monsters leg bone. The Bil De Vear roared as his leg gave out and he came crashing to the ground. Becky was quick to her feet and ran over just as the monsters head hit the ground. It tried to get back up but Becky would have none of it. She aimed the barrel at the creature’s forehead and pulled the trigger. The creature relaxed back to the ground as the bullet burned through its brain. Becky was breathing heavily with the gun still aimed glaring angrily at the monster. Heidi gasped at her then placed her hand on the weapon and slowly lowered it.

“You’re becoming quite a shot.” Heidi said softly.

“Twice in one day I’ve killed something?” Becky asked still staring down at the creature. “I should feel bad for doing so but I don’t.”

“That’s not unusual.” Heidi replied, “These monsters are just animals and they’d have no problem killing you.”

“But I’ve never killed anything before.” Becky said turning her gaze to her friend, “The first time I felt guilt and sorrow for killing that man but not this thing.”

“The day you stop feeling bad for killing someone is the day you stop being human.” Heidi shrugged, “Killing these creatures is different. They only know one thing, kill or be killed. That’s how we survive out here.”

She stored her daggers then gave Becky’s shoulder a squeeze. “You just lack training. It helps you deal with these feelings.”

Becky just nodded staring down at her feet. Heidi released her shoulder and went to inspect the flyer. She softly kicked a few parts lying on the ground as she went. She stopped in front of the damage and stared up at the large hole in the side of the craft.

“Why can’t we get a break?” She sighed then turned away, “We should get any supplies from the flyer then get out of here. This Bil De Vear will attract scavengers.”

Becky nodded but didn’t move. Heidi moved around the flyer to get a view of the canyon. A flash of reflected sunlight from the far end caught her eye.

“By the holy light.” She smiled, “They are here.”

“Who?” Becky asked looking up from the ground.

“The Illuminus.” Heidi pointed at were the light had come from, “Come on lets go.”

Heidi started down the side of the cliff.

“What about the supplies.” Becky asked running to the edge.

Heidi was already a good ways down. Becky sighed and followed her down.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The climb down the cannon side was much easier than Becky had thought it would be. She skidded down the last couple feet landing on the hard rock bottom with a big smile on her face. Heidi was already headed away and Becky had to run to catch up. The floor of the canyon was mostly flat with only a shallow trench running down the middle of it marking where water had once flowed long ago. The desert vegetation was sparse here and there was no sign that any animal life resided here with only the odd insect scurrying under a rock to show that life existed here at all. The girls walked along the dried river bed for a couple hours chatting about absolutely nothing and enjoying every minute of it. That quickly came to an end as they approached the canyon end. The dried river bed disappeared into a dark cave. Heidi froze and tilted her head to one side as she listened for something Becky couldn’t hear.

“What…” Becky started to ask but Heidi silenced her with a finger.

Heidi then grabbed her by the arm and dragged her behind a large boulder that had fallen from higher up. The girls watched quietly expecting an Illuminus member to appear. Instead they saw a slim tall purple cast slip down from a ledge higher up and disappear into the cave.

“I don’t believe it.” Heidi growled.

“Who was that?” Becky frowned.

“Trouble.” Heidi replied, “Come on, lets get him.”

“Do you always go looking for trouble?” Becky asked as she followed Heidi.

“Always.” Heidi grinned drawing her daggers.

Heidi stepped into the darkness of the cave and stopped dead. Becky nearly bumped into her. Heidi stood in a defensive stance with her eyes closed.

“I sense him.” She finally said snapping her eyes open, “I shouldn’t be able to anymore but I can.”

“Any more?” Becky asked keeping her voice low.

“The spirit of this android used to haunt my dreams.” Heidi replied, “Because I had a small part of him I could sense him. I wasn’t ever able to make much use of it though and just as I was learning to read it, the spirit of my ancestor rose up and drove him out. She used to take over my body when I was in deep trouble.”

“OK.” Becky frowned, “Is that what happened back at the bar and at Bosleys?”

“No.” Heidi shook her head, “That was me. I was completely aware of everything and did have some control I guess. Before, when Amanda took over I had no memory of it. Maybe she left a deeper mark on me than I realized.”

They rounded a tight bend in the rock which opened up to a vast cavern. Iridescent moss covered the cave walls bathing the entire cavern in a soft green glow. There were large holes in the floor that contained shallow pools of water. Glowing seaweed provided homes for the small fish that lived in the pools. Glowing insects scurried across the walls and ceiling.

“Wow.” Becky gasped, “It’s beautiful.”

“Yes.” Heidi nodded, “So why would Kireek come here?”

“Because no one would think of looking for me here.” A voice said behind them.

The girls spun around to come face to face with a very menacing cast. He stared down at them with glowing yellow eyes.

“You.” He glared at Heidi, “How is it that I can not escape you.”

“How is it that I can still feel you, sense you?” Heidi asked.

“I have no idea what you are taking about.” Kireek waved her off.

“You know very well you used to terrify and terrorize me.” Heidi jabbed him in the chest.

Kireek just stood staring down at the Newman.

“Well?” Heidi frowned.

“I no longer possess the D cells or possessed by the spirit of Dark Falz so I have no idea what you are taking about.” Kireek growled.

“Then maybe I should ask Cerberus.” Heidi shrugged and went for her communicator.

Kireek's arm shot out and grabbed her wrist.

“I can not allow that.” He growled.

“Then tell me what I want to know.” Heidi cried pulling her arm away.

“I don’t know!” Kireek hissed.

“Heidi,” Becky said tapping Heidi’s shoulder, “Your cousin.”

“Huh.” Heidi sputtered looking back at her friend, “Oh right, we’re looking for the Illuminus. They may have my cousin…”

“They do.” Kireek interrupted.

“What, how?” Heidi gasped.

“I met her when I was in service with them.” Kireek replied with a nod, “She looks very much like you.”

“Tell me where I can find her.” Heidi cried.

“Why should I.” Kireek shrugged.

“If you help us we won’t tell anyone you’re here.” Becky said.

“How do I know I can trust you?” Kireek frowned.

“You have my word as a Guardian.” Heidi replied.

Kireek sighed and started to turn away.

“And as a Hunter.” Heidi added.

“You’re not a Hunter.” Kireek said turning back.

“Yes I am.” Heidi replied, “More than I am a Guardian. Cerberus has taught me everything about being a Hunter and I have sworn to follow the ideals of the Hunters Guild.”

Kireek paused for a moment studying the girl before nodding with a sigh.

“Very well, follow me.” He said stepping passed them, “But know this, If you betray me I will spend the rest of my life hunting you down.”

“Understood.” Heidi nodded.

Kireek lead them through a series of winding tunnels each illuminated by the strange moss. Kireek, being an android, never tired but the two girls were unable to keep up the constant jog and had to stop several times which Heidi could tell annoyed Kireek to no end. It gave her a little pleasure for having to put up with some one she truly hated. It wasn’t that he was evil or even possessed by evil. Now he was just a common black market crook but because he had haunted and terrorized her, her entire life she couldn’t shake the constant erg to jump him from behind and rip his internal processor from that smug head of his. Becky must have noticed Heidi’s hands clenching because she put her hand on Heidi’s shoulder and gave it a soft squeeze accompanied by a smile. Heidi smiled back and let out a deep breath. She felt a little better until Kireek’s arm shot out stopping them. Heidi frowned as she looked out at the larger tunnel they were about to enter. She opened her mouth to protest but clamped it shut when she heard the sound of grinding stone coming from the larger tunnel. As the sound got closer, Kireek pushed them tight against the wall and signalled for them to be quiet. He turned his head to watch the tunnel. A giant hard plated worm streamed passed the exit. It looked a little like De Rol Le from Moatoob's northern ice lands but this one lacked the large body length fins Rol Le possessed. It moved along the rock by flexing its hard plates back and forth along the length of its body. Each movement of a plate carved out the rock it slid across. Heidi stood gaping at the sight. Kireek grabbed her left arm and tapped the scan on her line shield. After on a few seconds the worm was gone. Kireek looked down at the readout on Heidi’s arm and frowned. Heidi pulled her arm away with a scowl.

“What was that?” Becky gasped.

“I don’t know.” Kireek shook his head, “And apparently neither does the Guardians.”

Heidi looked down at her arm and saw the scan of the worm. The classification display simply read “UNKNOWN”.

“Could this be some new life form?” Heidi asked looking up from her display.

“I’ve only seen them here.” Kireek shrugged, “They may not yet be discovered. We should keep moving before it comes back.”

The girls nodded and followed the android into a connecting tunnel. The mood had shifted from casual to serious as the girls now concentrated on listening for the grinding rock. The conversations had stopped too which pleased Kireek greatly. After what felt like hours of walking the tunnel finally ended in a great cavern. The floor changed from rock to sand and the phosphorescent moss now grew on the ceiling only leaving the walls bare. Even the glowing insects seemed to stay to the roof. Heidi stopped and tilted her head toward the cavern. Becky, not watching where she was going, ran into Heidi’s back. Kireek started into the cavern and Heidi almost let him before grabbing his arm.

“Something is not right here.” She said staring up at him.

“What are you…” Kireek began turning back to the cavern.

He paused as he looked around studying the area before turning back to her.

“You are right.” He nodded, “You do have the hunter’s instinct.”

“What is it?” Becky asked looking passed the two hunters, “What’s wrong?”

“First.” Heidi began holding up a finger, “The floor changes from rock to sand as you move to the center of this cave. Fairly quickly I might add.”

Kireek nodded his agreement.

“Second.” Heidi continued pointing to the ceiling, “The moss is not growing on the walls here. Up until now it has covered the walls and ceiling. Also if you watch the insects, they too stick to the roof and stay away from the walls.”

“So what do they know that we don’t know?” Becky frowned.

“Exactly.” Kireek nodded.

A centipede type of insect crawled out from a patch of moss close to the wall. The three hunters watched as the bug weaved and zig zagged its way down the wall. It got half way down when a giant worm like creature shot out of the sand and snatched the bug off the wall. The girls gasped quietly as the giant maw quickly chomped down the insect as the worm slowly sank back down into the sand.

“We must cross here.” Kireek said, “There is no other way to the Illuminus.”

“Think we’re in for a fight then?” Heidi smirked drawing her daggers.

“Indeed.” Kireek nodded gripping his Soul Eater.

Becky drew her bow and followed the others out into the sand. A worm shot from the ground, mouth wide open baring razor teeth, driving right at Kireek. A quick swing of the Soul Eater sent the worm reeling back. A second worm shot up aiming for Heidi. An arrow shot passed her head and right into the worm’s mouth. The worm quickly reeled back. A third burst through the shale rock at Becky’s feet. She yelped in surprise and her left arm went up in defence. Heidi quickly spun on her heals driving her dagger tip into the side of the worm. It did little damage but the worm retreated back into the ground. Two more shot up out of the sand. Kireek took a swing at one but only the tip of his Soul Eater managed to penetrate the worm’s thick hide. Heidi chopped at the other worm with her daggers but they failed to do any real danger either. Both worms retreated back into the sand, and then everything went quiet. The hunters slowly lowered their weapons when nothing further happened.

“Is that it?” Becky asked.

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Heidi muttered.

Kireek stood with both hands gripping his weapon. He slowly lifted his right leg and took a step forward. As his foot softly crunched down on the sand the floor began to shake.

“Guess that’s not it.” He said stepping back.


A large spindly hand rose up from the center of the floor followed by another. They slammed down on the ground and began to pull their body up. Kireek actually gasped as a monstrous worm rose up. It looked almost identical to the De Rol Le from Ragol. The arms where attacked just below the head and the worms they had been fighting were actually the tentacles extending from the creatures back.

“You look like you’ve seen this before.” Becky said to Kireek.

“Except for the arms this creature looks much like one I fought back on Ragol.” Kireek replied.

“Beta 772.” Heidi nodded.

Kireek turned and stared down at the girl.

“What, Cerberus.” Heidi shrugged.

Kireek turned away with a growl as he was reminded once again this Newman had been trained by his rival android from Pioneer Two. They had once been mortal enemies when Kireek had been possessed by Dark Falz soul. Now that he was free and not nearly so evil the two androids had become rivals more than enemies. Still, there was a little hate between them that remained. His attention was drawn back to the monster as it clawed its way free of the sand. Its massive and lengthy body took up much of the room in the cave. The tentacles shot out at the hunters forcing them to spit up. The creature used its arms for pulling itself around as it chased its prey. Becky fired several shots at the creature before diving away as a tentacle slammed down in an attempt to swallow her up. Kireek charged it batting away any attacks then chopped down at the body. He found it much softer than the tentacles. Heidi tried to move in but she had to fend off constant attacks from the tentacles. A tentacle slammed down on Kireek knocking him on to his back. It immediately struck out with mouth open. A quick swing of the Soul Eater knocked the tentacle aside. Heidi drove off an attack from the right then launched a ball of Foie at one coming from her rear. Becky fired several arrows at the other tentacles to keep them from attacking Kireek. The android rolled to his feet and charged in on the head of the creature. It had what looked like a boney helmet covering its head just like Beta 772. Kireek was hoping that the same would be true with this creature as with 772 and a certain amount of damage would remove the helmet leaving the soft head vulnerable. He sliced down on the helmet hoping to at least chip some off. The tip of the scythe slid across the surface leaving only the slightest scratch.

“Hmm, new tactics are required.” Kireek scowled.

A tentacle slammed down on Kireeks location. The android managed to jump back just in time but his Soul Eater was ripped from his hands and pinned under the tentacle. He tried to pull it free but it was stuck tight and the tentacle would not retract. An arrow flew passed his head slamming into the worm like appendage. It drew green blood from a small cut but the tentacle remained firm. Becky fired again but the tentacle would not release the weapon. Becky aimed for a third shot but had to change to another tentacle that was aiming for her. Heidi was still being held at bay by the constant attacks from three tentacles. Kireek sighed and reluctantly drew a trap from his limited supply. He stared down at the small Corellian device before activating it and tossing it at the tentacle. The damage trap exploded taking a large chunk from the side of the tentacle. The giant worm roared in pain as it quickly withdrew its injured limb. It began circling the cave in a vain attempt to run over the attackers. The three hunters were forced to split up to keep from getting squashed. Kireek tried to chase the head around but the creature was too fast. Becky moved back to the cave entrance and fired at the creature. Heidi kept to the center of the room watching at the worm circled around then leaped at a segment near the center of the body. She hoped she could get her daggers to dig enough to help her climb up. When they didn’t dig in enough Heidi found herself falling on to her back. She quickly scrambled to her feet narrowly avoiding getting run over. A tentacle slammed down at her at the worm came to a stop. She batted it away then returned the attack with a blast of Foie. A second attack came which she turned aside then blasted it with a shot of Zonde. With each attack from the worm, Heidi retaliated with a technique blast. She saw Kireek charge for the head from her side vision but kept her attention on the attacking tentacles. With each attack she felt her inner flame become hotter and hotter. She couldn’t stop but she knew another spell like the one at Bosleys place was about to swarm over her. The only difference this time was she didn’t feel any overwhelming hate and anger. This was warm, pure energy flowing out from the depths of her soul. It was powerful, threatening to break loose at any moment but soft and soothing at the same time. Each attack from the worm became easier to block and avoid. She hardly even felt the blades of her daggers clash with the tentacles and before they could start to retract she would blast them with an attack of her own. Becky slowly lowered her bow as she watched her friend fly across the cave deflecting each and every attack. Kireek continued to attack the body when he got close enough but even he was intrigued by the girl’s sudden power. The giant worm began to snake around the cave again trying to run over the two attackers that dared approach it. It shot out a twin attack on Heidi as a third one shot out at Kireek. He knocked it aside but couldn’t move fast enough to catch the second attack from behind him. He was pinned to the floor as the tentacle began to munch away at his armour. He tried to move but couldn’t. He knew he needed to call for help but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Becky spotted him and called out to Heidi just as Heidi finished deflecting the twin attack. She saw that Kireek was in trouble and released a massive Rafoie blast with a mighty cry. There was a sudden bright flash as her power reached its maximum.

“Woh.” Becky said covering her eyes.

Once the flash cleared she looked up at her friend hovering just a couple inches off the ground. She was now dressed in a sleeveless white gown. It and her hair flowed and waved as if blown from an unfelt wind. Heidi’s eyes had turned solid blue and her skin had taken on a snow white appearance.

“By the holy light.” Becky gasped.

She spotted Sato lying on the ground a good distance from where Heidi was floating. The Mag must have been thrown away when she transformed. Becky rushed over and scooped the Mag up then hurried back to the safety of the cave entrance. Heidi gently floated over to where Kireek was pinned. She waved her hand out in front of her and the tentacle sliced clean off. Now free Kireek was slow to his feet. The worm had managed to chew through his armour and some of his vital systems. His balance was off and his legs were not working right. He took a step forward and nearly fell. Heidi looked down at him, her face remaining emotionless. Her hand slowly extended out and a waved of white sparks flowed over him. By the time they reached his feet, Kireek was completely healed. Heidi turned to face the worm that turned to face her. It launched a full attack with all remaining tentacles. Heidi waved her right arm and the tentacles exploded in a massive Rafoie blast. The worm screamed in pain and charged at her, its mouth open wide. A simple wave of Heidi’s hand sent the worm flying back from a zonde blast. The worm slowly unreeled it self and started to retreat into the sand. Heidi’s hand went up and the sand turned to molten lava. The creature screamed as the ground consumed it. Heidi’s hand went down and the lava returned to sand with no sign that the worm ever existed. Heidi turned and floated over to where Becky was standing. She looked down at the young human cradling the little blue fox and staring back up at her. Heidi tilted her head as if pondering a curiously then in a bright flash returned to normal. Her feet touched the ground and she folded under her own weight. Becky rushed to her side but Heidi was unconscious. Sato meowed softly rubbing her owners arm. Kireek stepped up to them and glared down at the Newman.

“So this is what they were trying to make back on Coral.” He muttered.

“What are you taking about?” Becky frowned staring up at him.

“There were long standing rumours in Black Paper that some scientists on my home planet were trying to make the ultimate being by combining Newman and human DNA. Newmans had been made incompatible with humans out of fear of what the result might be. It was said that at least one Newman woman had been created to breed with a human. The experiment was never finished and I had doubted the stories until I saw the uncontrolled power of Amanda. After that I suspected the stories might be true but I new she wasn’t what the result was supposed to be. She had plenty of power but she could not control it and therefore could never develop it. Heidi however has the power and the control. I believe we have just seen her full potential.”

“But she’s out cold and barely breathing.” Becky shook her head.

“The strain must be incredible.” Kireek smiled.

“We have to help her.” Becky replied.

“If we had some monofluids.” Kireek shrugged.

Becky just frowned at the strange term. Kireek waved her off then scooped Heidi up.

“Come, we must keep moving.”

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

The rest of the trek through the caves was uneventful as most of the resident creatures had disappeared. Kireek, not needing rest, continued at his usual pace unhindered by the light Newman woman he carried. Becky had a hard time keeping up and was growing very tired and sore. Heidi was still out cold but at least she was still alive. Sato had taken up position above Kireek’s left shoulder so she could keep an eye on her master. The tunnel finally ended with the bright sunlight streaking down from above. Kireek stopped at the entrance and set Heidi down. Becky dragged herself over to where Heidi lay and collapsed on the ground. She looked out at the vast flat desert before her and sighed.

“Don’t tell me we have to cross that too?”

“Yes, you do.” Kireek nodded.

“Huh.” Becky frowned looking up at him.

“I will go no further.” Kireek said, “I have kept my word and so you must as well.”

“Keep your word?” Becky gasped, “You were supposed to take us to the Illuminus.”

“Continue straight across the desert and you will find them.” Kireek pointed, “I have delivered you safely through the caves. That is all I shall do.”

“It was Heidi who delivered us safely.” Becky muttered.

Kireek looked down at the human but chose to ignore her statement. Instead he simply turned and headed back into the cave.

“Hey, what about Heidi?” Becky called after him, “I can’t carry her.”

She turned away when the darkness did not reply. She drew a water bottle from her pack and took a drink. She looked up at the bright red sun as it was beginning its late afternoon decent.

“We won’t have much daylight left when Heidi wakes up.” She said to Sato who had sat herself down next to Becky’s leg, “Guess this is as best a place to make camp as any.”

They could use the cave for shelter if needed so Becky didn’t bother putting up the small tent. She pulled out the photon burner and readied it for lighting so they would have light and heat. The sun soon drew low in the sky and the rumbling in Becky’s tummy told her it was close to if not passed dinner time. She pulled out a couple of monomate bars and frowned at tonight’s choice of diner. She gave one to Sato. The Mag happily down the bar then jumped up into Becky’s lap. Becky chewed away at the bar as she stroked the fox’s head.

“If only you had fur.” Becky sighed.

Sato ignored the comment and quickly drifted off to sleep.


Becky awoke to the sound of rustling in the night. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and looked around. The Moatoob moon was high in the sky bathing the desert in a soft grey light making the shadows seem extra long and dark. Sato was seated next to her leg purring softly as she slept. What ever it was that had awakened Becky had not bothered the Mag. She glanced over to where she had left Heidi and sighed with relief when she saw the girl curled up sleeping soundly. So what had disturbed her so much as to wake her from a sound sleep? She decided to look around just to be safe. She picked up her hand gun and moved quietly away from the camp. Holding the gun out and trying to be silent she slowly crept out into the darkness. She hadn’t gone very far when she felt she was being followed. She slowly turned then exhaled deeply as a little blue fox came floating up from behind a dirt mound.

“Shouldn’t you be back keeping an eye on Heidi?” Becky asked.

Sato meowed curiously then took a spot over Becky’s left shoulder.

“If you think I need watching more than she then there must be something really dangerous out here.” Becky sighed.

Sato meowed softly tilting her head as if to say, “That’s what I was trying to tell you.”

Becky nodded and continued forward. She rounded a tall cactus and froze as something skittered away on her right. She turned her head and aimed the gun. It skittered around behind her. Becky spun to face it but it had quickly moved around her. She tried to follow it but it was too fast. The noise started to move away and Becky tried to track it. The sound came from the left now and as Becky started to turn the sound came from her right. Sato hissed angrily. The attack came swift and coordinated. Two small bipedal creatures sprang out from either side. Becky was facing to her right and fired at that creature first. Sato took up the slack and ran head butting the second creature away. Becky’s shot missed and the creatures jaw opened wide ready to comp down. Its teeth hit the invisible field that made up Becky’s line shield. The creature yelped in shock then attacked with a swing of its tail catching Becky’s leg and sending her falling back. The second creature, sensing an easy prey, tried to attack but Sato continued to move in its path preventing it from passing. The first creature snapped it razor teeth at Becky’s feet. She continually kicked back trying to keep the creature from finding a grip. She managed to deliver a solid slam to the side of the creature’s skull stunning it. She fumbled with the gun trying to aim but the creature recovered quickly and her shot went wide. It bit down on the tip of her boot only to receive a mouth full of line shield photons. She gave it a hard kick with her boot knocking the creature back. It rolled away with a sharp yip before regaining its footing. With a short growl and a wag of its tail, it charged back. Becky aimed with her gun lining up the shot. A flash of sharp teeth dug into her arm as another creature leaped from her left. The two went down, Becky landing on her right arm. The first creature clamped down on her ankle and was rewarded with the fresh taste of human blood. Becky’s line shield interface on her left arm beeped as the line shield exceeded its limits and collapsed. Becky used the butt of her handgun to pound on the creature gripped to her arm at the same time she kicked at the creature munching on her leg. The creature on her arm simply kept its jaws clamped as she pounded on it so other than the initial bit, it wasn’t doing any real damage. The second one was much more determined to get its meal and dug in to her leg between kicks. Becky felt the creature’s skull finally give out as she drove the hand gun down. The grip on her arm went limp and she quickly brushed the body away. She aimed the gun down and fired burning a hole through that creature’s chest. It let out a single yip and slumped to the ground. Becky quickly looked around but couldn’t see Sato anywhere. She tried to climb to her feet but pain shot up her leg and the ankle just folded under her. She cried out then took a couple deep breaths. A faint meow from the darkness instantly drew her attention and drove her to her feet. She limped in the direction of the cry hoping to find her little friend. The meow came again from her right. She turned and continued forward. Sato continued to meow calling for help. Becky finally spotted the Mag lying in the sand. She rushed over and scooped up the little fox. Sato has several deep scratches and deep teeth marks in her metal skin. One tooth mark had actually punched through and a strange purple liquid seeped through. Becky stuck her finger in it and Sato protested loudly. This startled Becky but she sniffed the liquid anyway. It smelled terrible and she quickly wiped it on her pant leg. She pulled off her tunic top and wrapped the Mag in it hoping to keep as much of the liquid from leaking out as she could. She limped back to camp to find Heidi still fast asleep. She set the Mag down by the fire then crawled over to Heidi. She hadn’t the strength to climb to her feet again. To her relief, Heidi awoke with a weak smile.

“Becky, what happened?” She asked the smile draining away.

“I’ll explain later.” Becky replied nodding at the Mag, “Sato’s been injured.”

“What?” Heidi gasped springing up, “What happened?”

“We were attacked by these small brown two legged lizard creatures.” Becky explained, “Sato tried to keep one of them off me.”

Heidi ran over and scooped up her friend then turned back to Becky. She frowned when Becky had failed to climb to her feet. She walked back and gave Becky a quick once over, her eyes stopping on Becky’s torn and bloody ankle.

“Becky, why didn’t you say you where hurt?”

“I’ll heal, Sato won’t.” Becky replied, “She needs fixing. There’s some sort of strange liquid leaking from her.”

“You didn’t touch it!” Heidi snapped.

“Well, I stuck my finger into it.” Becky started to reply.

“Where?” Heidi asked grabbing her right hand.

“This one of course.” Becky said holding up her index finger.

Heidi examined it closely before letting it go. She slumped to the ground with a sigh cradling Sato.

“Oh Becky.” Heidi shook her head.

She suddenly looked very drained and sickly white in the flickering light of the campfire. She sat quiet staring at the ground. Becky started forward in an attempt to move beside her friend. Heidi looked up at her with sorrow filled eyes freezing Becky.

“That strange liquid is concentrated D cells.” Heidi said, “If you’ve been infected by them.”

Heidi let her thought hang there as her mind drew up a picture of her dear friend being twisted and mutated.

“What, what are D cells?” Becky asked softly.

She didn’t know exactly what was going on but she sensed it was very bad.

“What’s going to happen to me?”

“The closest thing I can compare them to is the Seed virus.” Heidi replied, “Except it’s not a virus its genetic material, living cells. They were produced by a being known as Dark Falz. It mutates anything it infects. Unlike the Seed virus, there is no cure.”

“Why would they create such a thing?” Becky gasped looking at Sato, “Didn’t they think something like this would happen?”

“Maybe but the power benefits of these little guys must have outweighed the risks.” Heidi shrugged, “Besides, Sato is a very old family friend going back to my great, great, very great Grandmother, before they discovered the D cells.”

“I’m sorry.” Becky sighed, “I don’t mean to attack Sato, heck she saved my life tonight. I’m just scared.”

“I know.” Heidi said moving beside Becky and wrapping her arm around her, “I’m going to help you through this. Heck we don’t even know if you’ve been infected and if so, some people never do mutate and change.”

“My luck hasn’t been that good so far.” Becky sighed.

“What are you taking about?” Heidi smiled, “After all we’ve been through, we’re still alive. That’s pretty good luck if you ask me. Now let’s do something about that leg.”

Heidi closed her eyes and held her hand over Becky’s ankle. A soft green and white light floated down from the palm of her hand and wrapped around Becky’s ankle. There was a soft flash and the light was gone, Becky’s ankle was completely healed.

Becky climbed to her feet and tried the ankle out.

“Thank you.” She smiled then held her arm up, “How about this?”

Heidi smiled and shook her head then proceeded to heal the injury on Becky’s arm. She unwrapped the Mag and looked her over.

“Well, it works on androids so maybe it works on Mags too.” Heidi shrugged.

Becky frowned but remained quiet. Heidi held her hand over Sato and let the green and white light flow. A flash later and Sato was fixed.

“I’ve go to learn how to do that.” Becky grinned scooping Sato up, “Thank you.”

She gave Sato a hug then let the Mag float back to Heidi’s shoulder.

“Any one can learn to do it.” Heidi shrugged, “Well except androids. They don’t have mental energy.”

“But I’ve seen Casts do techniques.” Becky frowned.

“With the use of a wand.” Heidi pointed, “The weapon substitutes the missing mental energy with the use of photon energy. It has the same effect but they’re not true techniques. It’s why this system never developed mental restorers, monofluid, like they did with physical restorers.”

“You mean monomates.” Becky said picking up her pack.

“Exactly.” Heidi nodded as she gathered her supplies, “I guess it helps level the field.”

“No, it lets the big three sell weapons to us.” Becky shook her head, “Can you imagine the market loss if everyone started using their minds for techs.”

Heidi grinned and looked up at the night sky. A shooting star flashed across the diamond filled blackness. The horizon to the east was starting to take on a silvery hue as Moatoob’s moon was getting set to rise.

“The moon will be up soon.” Heidi said still staring up, “It will make traveling easier.”

“We should use the rest of the night for sleep.” Becky replied.

“No.” Heidi said turning to her friend, “That attack on you would not be the last and we can’t afford to become some things dinner.”

Heidi took a deep breath and started toward the south. Becky stood for a moment gazing up at the night sky. She could just make out the blue glitter of Parum in the east. The rising moon would soon drown out the planet blocking her view.

“I miss my home.” She said softly and wiped away a tear.

She took a deep breath and started off after her friend. Becky had to hustle to catch up to Heidi who was moving at a fairly quick pace. The moon continued to rise as the pair marched across the desert sand. It seemed like they had been marching for hours but making no progress at all. Heidi stayed focused on her mission but Becky was growing tired and wishing for home. She watched the moon rise high into the sky then turned her attention to the east as the sun began to make an appearance. She finally had to stop for a drink. Heidi stopped too and took a quick swig from her bottle.

“Do you think we’re getting close?” Becky asked staring into her bottle.

The sound of handguns being drawn drew her attention. She gasped as several men stood around them all with guns pointed at the girls.

“I would say we’re getting close.” Heidi replied slowly raising her hands above her head.

The men quickly confiscated their gear. A large cast stepped forward. He stood a good seven feet tall and almost as wide. He wore parts similar to Cerberus’ RAcast design. He was coloured dark green with black trim and glowing green eyes.

“You are a long way from home.” He said with a metallic voice, “This is Illuminus land and you are trespassing.”

“As a secret terrorist organization, I would think you’d try a little harder at staying out of sight.” Heidi shrugged.

“If you were simple travelers lost in the desert then we would gladly leave you to your fate.” The Cast smirked.

“How comforting.” Becky muttered.

“But since you are Guardians and you are actually looking for us.” The Cast growled, “We could not allow you to go snooping around here.”

“Tell you what.” Heidi said, “All we’re after is my cousin. Newman girl, looks like me only blonde hair. Give her to us or tell us where she is and we will be on our way and you won’t even have to reveal your hide out to us.”

The Cast pretended to consider her offer for a moment then grinned evilly.

“I have a better idea.” He said then waved his hand, “Take them away.”

With a rather hard shove the guards forced Heidi forward. A jab of a gun barrel got Becky moving. Some how Sato had managed to pull off one of her disappearing acts. Becky looked around but couldn’t see the little fox anywhere but she knew she was not far away. The guards led them to a great ravine in the desert. The walls had been carved into walkways and tunnels. Platforms and rails lined and snaked around and through these tunnels to guild the hover carts carrying the mined ore. The cavern floor was bustling with activity as the naked beast slaves went about their tasks. A human or Cast guard was never far away and never shy about using their photon whips. Becky couldn’t help but cringe with every crack of the whip.

“Iceberg told me about this place but I never imagined.” Heidi gasped.

The guards ushered them onto an elevator platform. The platform dropped rapidly to the floor. They stepped off and the Cast led them across the ravine floor. Heidi and Becky exchanged gazes with several slaves. Some looked at them with painful hope, others with hate filled contempt. They entered the caverns through a simple cave door then were lead to a large metal elevator. The cast and two other guards stepped onto the elevator with the girls. The door slid shut and the elevator dropped several floors finally gliding to a gentle stop. The door slid open to a very imposing Cast.

“Magashi.” Heidi gasped.

He looked at both girls then raised his eyebrow.

“I hope you are not planning on convincing us you’re here to join us.” He said flatly.

“What?” Heidi frowned.

“Nothing.” Magashi waved, “Follow me. Someone wishes to speak with you.”

He turned and led them down a dimly lit corridor to a seemingly unimportant wood door. He pushed the door open and ushered the girls inside. A human man dressed in a white suit was seated behind a large wooden desk.

“You Guardians are becoming quite the nuisance.” Howzer said looking up at them.

“Just give me my cousin and we won’t bother you anymore.” Heidi replied.

“You must be Heidi Kimble.” Howzer said climbing from his seat, “I see how Kireek was mistaken and nearly robbed me of my favourite slave.”

“Kireek?” Heidi frowned, “So he did know.”

“Yes.” Howzer grinned, “But I don’t think she will be willing to go with the likes of you.”

“What makes you say that?” Heidi scowled.

“Ask her yourself.” Howzer waved.

A blonde haired image of Heidi stepped through a back door to the office. She strolled in as if she were in charge then gave Heidi a hateful scowl.

“Amanda.” Heidi gasped then smiled, “I’m so glad I found you. Your mother has been so worried…”

“Don’t you dare speak about my mother.” Amanda snapped, “Despite my best efforts you managed to make it here. This was my best chance to ride our family of you but I have failed.”

“What are you talking about?” Heidi gasped, “Your mother sent me to find you.”

“She would never do such a thing.” Amanda shot, “She would never lower herself.”

“She did.” Heidi started to say but Amanda cut her off.

“Lies!” She snapped.

Howzer stood by watching the exchange with mild amusement. He really did like his little slave girl and when she had approached him asking for a way to destroy her Guardian cousin, he was more than happy to lend her the resources. He had enjoyed standing back and watching everything unfold. Heidi had impressed him with her strength and abilities but he never imagined finding the kind of power that had been revealed in this young woman. He would never tell Amanda this but he was now more interested in her cousin than her. He wanted this power even if it meant losing his favourite slave.

“What did our family ever do to deserve this hate?” Heidi frowned.

“Do?” Amanda scowled, “You shunned and pushed us away. Took everything our great grandparents brought with them and left us nothing. Heck you didn’t even know we existed. We’ve been forced to sit on the side watching as every member of you’re family has made some kind of contribution to Gurhal while we slave away at remedial tasks never finding any kind of greatness.”

“I hardly think that’s our fault.” Heidi frowned, “Life is like that sometimes.”

“No, we could have done great things together but you wouldn’t share the knowledge of the Hunters Guild.” Amanda snapped.

“How do you know about that?” Heidi gasped, “I didn’t even know until Cerberus explained everything.”

This seemed to please Amanda a little. A small smirk grew across her face.

“Well, well, well, something my family knows that yours didn’t.” She said slowly stepping around Heidi and Becky, “its little compensation for all you stole.”

“Heidi didn’t know any of this.” Becky snapped, “It’s not her fault.”

“It’s her families fault.” Amanda swung around coming just short of slapping Becky, “Therefore it is her fault. The only thing that brings me any kind of joy is the knowledge that she is the last. Her line ends with her. Mine will carry on with my brother but she will end.”

“Wait, I have two cousins?” Heidi gasped, “How big is your side of the family?”

“Big enough that we could have wiped you out and no one would have been the wiser.” Amanda smirked, “It’s big and every one of them hates you just like me. By the end of this day I will be able to return to them and claim that the other Kimble line is finally ended with my own hand.”

“I think you forget you are a slave here.” Heidi said looking at Howzer, “Something tells me you aren’t going to get to just go home.”

“Quite right.” Howzer said finally hearing enough, “Amanda belongs to me and I shall do with her as I please.”

“But!” Amanda started to protest.

Howzer silenced her with a wave of his hand.

“However we do have one common interest.” He continued, “Seeing you come to an abrupt end.”

Heidi’s fists clenched but she remained still.

“And your pretty friend here will become a nice addition to the Illuminus.” Howzer grinned, “Either by choice or by force.”

“It’s not really a choice then is it?” Becky glared.

“Yes it is.” Howzer nodded, “Choose to join and enjoy all the freedoms of a member. Refuse and you will find yourself back in slavery.”

“Back in.” Heidi frowned, “How did you know?”

“Everything that has happened to you since you arrived on Moatoob has been by my hand.” Howzer said, “Your cousin being the brains and control of coarse.”

“So my drugged water supply, being sold into slavery, the Seed attack.” Heidi gasped, “That was all you?”

“Everything but your brief encounter with Kireek.” Howzer shrugged, “That was an unexpected surprise.”

“Heidi, he knows about…” Becky started but Heidi jabbed her arm.

“I know, I know.” Heidi whispered.

“There is nothing in this system that I don’t know about.” Howzer sneered, “The Illuminus are everywhere. Now, what shall we do about you Guardian?”

“Let me finish her.” Amanda pleaded.

“Do you really think you can take on a trained Guardian?” Howzer asked.

“I can take her.” Amanda growled.

“Very well.” Howzer nodded, “Take them to the arena.”

“You have an arena just for this sort of thing?” Heidi gasped.

“Yes.” Howzer replied and waved them away.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

The Guards took Becky and Heidi to the Arena barracks where combatants were outfitted with what ever armour and weapons were required in a particular fight. Heidi was stripped of her Guardian equipment then allowed to select from the arena supplied metal weapons. She picked out a couple short straight daggers that she slipped into her belt loops then selected a sabre as her main weapon. She had no intention of harming her cousin but she didn’t want to be unarmed against the crazed woman either. The guards had left the two alone until it was fight time. Becky seated her self on one of the benches and looked around. The floor was still stained with the last combatant’s blood. By the amount she guessed he hadn’t won. The walls contained a few lockers for storing personal items while in the fight. They were all empty and probably didn’t see much use anyway. She looked up at her friend as Heidi strapped on a breast plate then selected a small shield that sat tight on her left arm.

“What if you have to kill her?” Becky asked softly.

“I won’t.” Heidi replied.

“But…” Becky started.

“I won’t.” Heidi replied, “I didn’t come all this way just to see her die. I promised her mom I’d find her and bring her home safely.”

“Even if she doesn’t want too?” Becky said with a slight smirk.

“I’ll drag her home unconscious if I have too.” Heidi replied testing her weapon.

The girls heard a soft meow and turned to see Sato squeeze out from a small hole in the wall.

“I was wondering where you had got too.” Becky smiled.

“Sato would never let me down.” Heidi smiled as the Mag floated up to her left shoulder.

“I don’t know if they are going to allow this.” Becky shook her head.

“Something tells me they don’t care.” Heidi replied.

“Huh?” Becky frowned.

“Didn’t you see how Howzer was staring at me up there?” Heidi asked, “It was the look of a man who found power. Power he wants very much.”

“He wants you to win.” Becky nodded.

“And he knows I won’t kill my cousin.” Heidi sighed.

“Even if you win, we’ve lost.” Becky exhaled and looked down at her feet.

“We haven’t lost yet.” Heidi smiled.

A knock at the door was followed by two guards. One guard came to take Becky to her seat next to Howzer and Magashi. The other guard took Heidi to the arena entrance. The stands were packed with people. Heidi shook her head. The Illuminus claimed to be civilized and fighting for human rights but they still participated in barbaric entertainment such as these gladiatorial fights. Howzer rose to his feet and raised his arms. The crowd hushed and waited for him to speak.

“Welcome my fellow Illuminus.” His voice boomed over the speakers, “Once again we are treated with a show of strength from the subspecies. Tonight we are treated with two Newmans going head to head. While they may not present a show of superior strength it will be one of agility and maybe even some fire works.”

Heidi frowned at the last statement. Howzer was hinting that she might use her techniques which she had no intention of doing.

“It gets better yet.” Howzer said, “One of our combatants is a Guardian.”

This was followed by a chorus of cheers.

Howzer quickly calmed the audience then continued, “It gets better. Our two fighters are cousins so we have a family feud as well. First I present our own slave girl, Amanda Kimble.”

The crowd began to applaud as Amanda walked into the ring holding her sword high.

“And for our competitor I present the Guardian Heidi Kimble.”

The guard jabbed Heidi in the back to get her moving. She stepped into the light and was greeted by a series of boos and jeers. Heidi moved quickly to where Amanda was standing.

“We can still stop this.” Heidi whispered.

“Shut up!” Amanda shot back.

“There is only one rule.” Howzer said, “Last one alive wins.”

Howzer sat down and a bell ran starting the fight. Amanda spun and chopped down with her sword. Heidi just managed to get her shield up for a block.

“What’s with the little pet?” Amanda asked as she swung again.

Heidi blocked with her sword, “Sato is a little gift from Deepfreeze.”

Heidi hoped that Amanda knew who Deepfreeze was and it would further anger her. If she got upset enough she might start making mistakes that Heidi could use to disarm her. It did anger her. She screamed and started a series of quick chops. Heidi blocked every one easily. This was a trademark technique of someone with no combat training. Heidi felt sorry for her, she didn’t stand a chance. Amanda lunged forward hoping to slice some flesh. Heidi brought her sword down and on the inside so she could easily drive the sword down and to the outside. It worked perfectly and if she had been trying to kill her opponent she easily could have. Amanda drew back her sword and swung at Heidi’s belly. She leaped back and knocked the swing away. Amanda chopped down several times. Each one contacted Heidi’s shield.

“You’re never going to get to me by going through my shield.” Heidi smirked, “It just makes your sword dull.”

“I’ll dull you.” Amanda spat.

“That doesn’t even make sense.” Heidi replied blocking yet another lame attack.

Heidi continued to let Amanda attack hoping to tire the girl out. Amanda chopped then lunged. Heidi blocked then chopped down with her own sword knocking the weapon from Amanda’s hand. Amanda went for her weapon only to find a blade at her neck.

“We can stop this right now.” Heidi said.

Amanda just stared up at her. Howzer shook his head and climbed from his seat.

“I had hoped we would have seen a better show.” He said.

“It’s not over.” Magashi replied.

Howzer frowned at his Cast companion and right hand.

“Just watch sir.” Magashi said signalling to the man's seat.

Howzer nodded and took his seat.

Heidi stared down at her cousin waiting for some kind of response. She saw a sparkle in the girls blue eyes and gasped as she recognized it only too late. A massive heat wave blasted her back as Amanda unleashed a blast of RAfoie. Heidi landed hard, her sword flying from her grip. Her hair smouldering from the fire and she was sporting several nasty burns. Amanda was on her feet and marching at her. Heidi climbed to her feet and started for her sword. A blast of Zonde landed right in front of her.

“See, I said I could take you.” Amanda grinned, “No wands, no techniques.”

“So Howzer has kept things from you too.” Heidi replied.

“What?” Amanda frowned.

Heidi threw her arm out and a streak of Barta raced across the sand floor. Amanda jumped to the side just missing the attack. This gave Heidi time to grab her sword.

“How does she know how to do techniques?” Heidi gasped.



“Those stolen documents from the communion have paid off.” Magashi chuckled to Howzer.

“Very good my friend, very good.” Howzer replied.


Amanda let loose a Nosdiga attack. The ground split open at her feet and a stream of lava shot forward aiming for Heidi. She tried to dive to the side but the homing nature of the attack hit its mark. The blast caught her feet spinning her around as she hit the ground. Amanda stalked forward, her vision focused squarely on her cousin. Heidi looked up, breathing deeply from the pain of the attack, and shoved her arm forward releasing a ball of Foie. Amanda dodged the attack and responded with a ball of Megid. Heidi leaped to her feet springing to her right just as the ball rushed by. A blast of RAzonde sent Amanda crumpling to her back. She gasped deeply from the shock, her body temporarily paralyzed. Heidi rushed at her hoping to get her sword into play before Amanda recovered. It turned out she didn’t need to recover. Amanda turned her head enough to see Heidi and a bolt of Zonde stopped the girls charge. Amanda was slow to get up as her whole body tingled with pins and needles. Heidi was already moving and getting much too close. Amanda quickly cast GIfoie, a ring of fire erupting around her. Heidi caught the edge of it getting a little singed. She responded with a RAbarta blast. Amanda didn’t freeze but she was frost bitten. She went to retaliate but a ball of Diga slammed into her chest stopping her from starting the spell. Heidi blasted her again with Zonde. Heidi moved closer with each step zapping Amanda every time she tried to get to her feet. Finally the woman was so beaten she could only remain lying on the ground gasping for air.

“This doesn’t need to continue.” Heidi said holding her blade tip at Amanda, “We can still go home.”

“I will never go anywhere with you.” Amanda spat, “You might as well just kill me now.”

Heidi dropped the sword, “I have no intention of killing you.”

“You’re mistake.” Amanda sneered.

A circular blast of GIzonde sent Heidi tumbling to her back. Amanda climbed to her feet and a shimmering light washed over her. She picked up the sword then cast another spell where three white bars of light formed a circle around her waist. Her skin had taken on a slight shine from the first spell. Heidi gasped recognizing both as Giresta and Rentis. The first would continue to heal her wounds for as long as the spell lasted and the second one protected her from techniques.

“I have your sword and your techs can’t hurt me.” Amanda grinned, “What are you going to do?”

Heidi drew her daggers from her belt and smiled back, “Continue to beat you until I knock some sense into you.”

Amanda screamed in anger and rushed forward chopping down on Heidi. She blocked the attack with her shield. She pushed the sword away then sliced with her right dagger catching Amanda in the wrist. Amanda pulled away from the sting then held her arm up grinning as the wound quickly healed.

“Not good enough.”

Heidi just shook her head and rushed in. She jabbed with her left dagger which Amanda drove aside with her sword. This was exactly what Heidi expected leaving Amanda open. Heidi drove in with her right dagger digging deep into Amanda’s side. The girl screamed and jumped back. Heidi held on pulling the dagger free. Amanda growled at her as the wound healed. This was wasting Heidi’s energy; she would have to change tactics.


“Perhaps our reports were wrong.” Magashi said, “This is less than impressive.”

“If you only knew.” Becky thought.

“Give it time Magashi.” Howzer smiled, “You will be impressed.”

Magashi just snorted his response.


The two women continued to dance around the arena exchanging blocks and blows. Heidi was delivering much more damage but Amanda’s Giresta kept her healed and fit. Amanda had yet to deliver any kind of real hit. She was getting frustrated and angry. She finally had enough and launched a ball of Megid at Heidi. Heidi was at point blank range and only had enough time to register what it was.

“Oh crap.” She thought as the purple ball passed through her.

There was a tingling sensation followed by a cold chill as the purple orb sucked away her life force. Heidi collapsed in a heap on the sand floor.

“NO!” Becky cried jumping from her seat.

Howzer sat shaking his head. Magashi just smirked.

“When will I be impressed?” He said finally.

“Watch your tongue Cast.” Howzer snapped.

Amanda stood over Heidi’s body grinning. Sato still sat beside Heidi’s shoulder.

“Finally your line ends.” She said, “I have avenged our family. Now we shall take our rightful place here.”

She started to turn away when Sato let out a loud meow and started shaking. Amanda turned back around.

“What?” She muttered with a raised eyebrow.

Sato flashed with a bright light that flowed over Heidi’s body like a wave. The girl took a deep breath and sat up.

“No it can’t be.” Amanda gasped.

Heidi shook her head and looked up at Sato, “How did you do that?”

“What is that thing?” Amanda scowled, “It can’t be Gurhal made.”

“It’s not.” Heidi replied grinning, “Its Coral made.”

“No, how?” Amanda gasped.

“It’s not too late to end this and come home.” Heidi pleaded holding out her hand.

“I swear I will kill you!” Amanda shouted and charged.

Heidi got her left arm up just in time to block Amanda’s attack. Heidi’s counter attack merely knocked Amanda back and off balance. A swipe of Heidi’s leg sent the girl tumbling to the ground. Amanda quickly spun over to her stomach then jumped to her feet. She threw out her arm sending a Foie ball at Heidi. Heidi could only shield her eyes as the fire ball slammed into her. The heat was intense and burned Heidi’s skin. The heat quickly faded leaving her with several blisters. She returned the attack with Barta. Amanda went to jump out of the way only to find herself frozen in a block of ice. Heidi quickly cast Resta on herself then walked up to Amanda and shook her head slowly.

“I will take you home.” She said, “Even if I have to do it like this.”

Howzer stood up from his seat and glared down at the Guardian, “Finish her and finish the fight.”

“Never!” Heidi cried back and dropped her daggers, “I will not kill my cousin.”

Howzer sat down with a sigh. “This is not triggering her power.”

“So that’s it.” Becky thought staring at the two Illuminus leaders, “They are only interested in Heidi’s power. They don’t even care what happens to Amanda.”

“She will never harm her cousin and therefore will never trigger the power you seek.” Magashi replied.

“Then we need to add a danger that will.” Howzer said and waved to one of his guards.

The guard nodded and quickly ran off. The ice encasing Amanda finally began to crack and break free. The girl tumbled out and fell to the floor. Heidi was quick to her side.

“Leave me alone.” Amanda said and tried to shove Heidi away.

“No.” Heidi said, “I’m taking you home.”

A large door at the end of the arena opened up and a large mutated Bil De Vear stepped out. Its head was partially twisted from Seed infection. Large purple blisters covered its flesh and its normally large claws were even longer and curved like sickles. The inside edge of the blades were serrated like sharks teeth. Its hooves were elongated to look more like feet and hinged in the center to allow for proper walking.

“No!” Amanda cried climbing to her feet and turning to face Howzer, “This is my fight. I will kill her. You can’t take this from me.”

“You belong to me.” Howzer replied flatly, “I can do what ever I please.”

“Get behind me.” Heidi said stepping in front of Amanda, “I’ll handle this monster.”

“Gladly.” Amanda muttered and grinned at Heidi’s exposed back.

“It’s not a Seed creature yet so it shouldn’t be much harder…”

Heidi was interrupted by an intense sharp pain in her back. She reached back to where it hurt then gasped down at her blood covered hand. She spun to face Amanda who was holding a bloody dagger. The expression on Heidi’s face said one thing and one thing only, “Why?

“I told you I was going to kill you.” Amanda grinned.

Heidi opened her mouth to speak but instead collapsed to the floor. It took all her energy just to keep breathing.

Howzer sighed and shook his head. Magashi just chuckled.

“Well, I’m not impressed but I am entertained.” The cast said and climbed from his seat.

“Heidi!” Becky cried jumping from her seat.

“The Newman girl will be executed for this.” Howzer said.

Becky gasped turning to the man.

“Fortunately I have a replacement.” Howzer said starring back at her.

Becky quickly turned away and slumped back into her seat.

“That’s easy enough.” Magashi said pointing to the arena, “Just let your pet deal with her.”

“Good idea.” Howzer smiled returning to his seat.

Magashi nodded and started to leave.

“Not interested?” Howzer asked.

“A good fight I always enjoy.” Magashi replied, “Senseless Slater not so much. If you will excuse me.”

The cast bowed and headed out from the arena. Amanda stood staring at her dieing cousin feeling proud of herself. The Bil De Vear let out a gurgling roar and started for the Newmans. Amanda gasped at the monster then turned to face Howzer.

“Ok the fight is over.” She said, “You can let me out now.”

“The fight is far from over my dear.” Howzer grinned evilly, “I have enjoyed your company.”

Amanda quickly glanced at the approaching monster then back to Howzer who continued to smirk at her. She returned his smirk with a scowl then turned back to the monster. It stomped across the arena floor solely focused on her. This was something she just wasn’t strong enough to face and if it got close enough it would tear her to tiny bloody shreds. She glanced down at her dying cousin then back to the monster, down at Heidi and back to the monster finally cursing.

“You take everything from me.” She quietly cursed Howzer.

She placed her hand over Heidi and cast Resta. Heidi gasped deeply filling her lungs with much needed air and quickly sprang to her feet with renewed energy.

“Thank you.” She smiled, “I knew you’d come around.”

“I didn’t do it to save you.” Amanda snapped and pointed at the monster, “I did it to save me from that.”

“Fine, get behind me.” Heidi said then quickly jabbed her in the chest, “And don’t stab me in the back this time.”

“I won’t.” Amanda huffed then quietly added, “Not until the monster is dead anyway.”

The creature snarled at the flash from Heidi’s daggers and charged forward with head down, its horns ready to pierce through the soft flesh. Heidi gasped and pushed Amanda out of the way then jumped clear as the creature stormed by. She landed on her side hard. One of her daggers slipped from her grasped and skidded across the hard stone floor. Heidi spun to her feet and watched as the Bil De Vear turned for Amanda. She was on her back trying to back peddle away from the charging creature. Heidi sprang forward slipping behind the Bil De Vear and took a slash at its calf. Black sticky liquid squirted from the wound hitting Heidi in the face. She tried to wipe it off with the back of her hand but it just smeared like grease. She gave up and went back to attacking the monster. She landed two more hits before the creature batted her away with a swing of its claw. Amanda managed to get to her feet and toss a ball of Diga at the creature. It landed square in the creature’s chest.

“HA!” She cheered.

Her jaw dropped as the creature turned back completely unfazed and glared at her right in the eye.

“Oh no.” She muttered.

She quickly began tossing different technique attacks at the monster. It blasted through every attack without even slowing. Amanda readied her sword and braced herself for the hit. The creature brought up its right arm preparing to chop the girl down. Amanda watched through squinting eyes until it was on top of her, then she closed her eyes and prepared for the end. The hit never came. She opened her eyes to see Heidi clinging to the monsters back. It was spinning and bucking in an attempt to toss her. Amanda ran up and slashed at the creatures shin. It snarled and swung a claw at her. She managed to duck just in time. Becky, not being able to stand and watch any longer, sprang from her seat and charged down the isle. She hit the arena ledge and jumped over the side landing on her feet. Howzer just sat and smiled. This was better than he hoped. At first Becky wasn’t sure what she could do as the Illuminus had taken all her weapons. A voice from behind her called out to her.

“Draw your bow!”

She turned back and looked up at the stands but she only saw Howzer grinning back at her. Everyone else was focused on the monster. She turned around with a puzzled look on her face then shrugged as she reached back to her nanotransformer. To her surprise, a photon bow appeared in her hand. It was even set with light element arrows. She took one last puzzled look at Howzer then ran to help her friends.

Amanda just avoided a swipe losing only a couple hairs in the process. With her head still down she watched the blonde hairs drop to the floor.

“Too close.” She thought.

Heidi landed hard on the floor as the De Vear finally managed to toss her. She sprang to her feet then winced as a sharp pain shot through her shoulder. She almost dropped her dagger as she went to grab her shoulder. A white arrow shot passed her ear landing a hit in the creatures left shoulder. She turned to see Becky lining up for another shot. She shot Becky a smile then turned back to the creature. Amanda drove her sword into the creature’s leg dropping it to its knees.

“Not bad.” Heidi smiled.

The creature growled and took a swing at Amanda catching her in her side. The hit sent her flying across the arena landing hard between Becky and Heidi. Heidi turned and ran to her cousin as Becky covered her. The creature tried to pursue but it slowly succumbed to Becky’s bombardment. Heidi skidded to Amanda’s side dropping to her knees. She rolled her cousin onto her back. Amanda groaned and gripped her side.

“Guess I was too slow.” Amanda groaned.

Heidi moved her hand to inspect the wound.

“Oh, it’s not that bad.” Heidi replied.

“Liar.” Amanda grinned.

“No really, it’s nothing a little Resta can’t fix.” Heidi shook her head.

She didn’t have the heart to tell Amanda the wound had been infected with the Seed virus and had already started turning the raw flesh into purple pulsing boils.

“Don’t lie to me.” Amanda groaned, “I can feel it changing. I can feel the burn.”

“Lie still.” Heidi said, “I’m going to get you out of here and we’ll get you the cure.”

Before Amanda could reply, Heidi jumped to her feet and turned to face Howzer.

“This ends now Howzer.” Heidi cried, “You will cure my cousin and then you will let us go or I will make things very unpleasant for you.”

“Good, get angry.” Howzer muttered then stood to address the Newman girl, “This is my world and I will do as I wish. You mortals have no power to stop me. If I wish you to die then that is just what you shall do.”

Becky turned to Heidi and frowned, “What is he talking about.”

“Something is not right here.” Heidi replied.

“Nothing can stop us now no matter how much you pathetic little things try.” Howzer continued, “We came to this world to rule it and that is just what we are doing. I believe we wish you to die.”

Howzer turned and started walking up the isle to the arena exit.

“Howzer!” Heidi screamed.

“Enjoy.” Howzer said on his way out.

“What do we do?” Becky asked looking down at Amanda.

“We get her out of here.” Heidi replied and went to scoop up her cousin.

The arena door opened up and in marched a mutated Bil De Merlan, two Delnadian, three Dilnazen, and three Gaozoran. The two girls stood in stunned silence and the creatures spread out and surrounded them. The sorcerer like Gaozoran phased in and out as they took up attack positions. One was a fire element while the other two sported ice. The Delnadian reminded Heidi of the pictures of Delsabers that Cerberus had shown her from Ragol. These were three times the size and just as quick. The tall and long limbed Dilnazen were the resulting creatures of a humanoid Seed infection. Heidi stood back to back with Becky watching the creatures move around them. They both knew they were in for the fight of their lives and only a miracle would save them now.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Howzer slumped against the bathroom sink feeling very sick to his stomach. He looked up at the reflection in the mirror only to see a strange face staring back at him. For the most part he had been able to control the Seed entity living inside him but lately it had been breaking through. Too much had been revealed in the arena, too much had shown through. They weren’t ready to show their true hand but he was loosing control, he was loosing himself. Soon only the Seed would exist. He was starting to regret this arrangement.

“This is not what we agreed.” He glared at the reflection.

“The agreement is mute.” The reflection replied, “We have gained what we wanted and what the flesh wants is not important.”

“You had no intention of living up to your end of the bargain and now I will be the instrument of Gurhal’s destruction.” Howzer coughed.

“As has been planned from the beginning.” The reflection replied, “This place will become our new home and all will be our hosts.”

“I will fight you to the last.” Howzer spat.

The reflection simply sneered back at him through the spattered blood. The bathroom door burst open and a young human man waved at him.

“Sir, you need to see this.” He said excitedly.

“What is it?” Howzer shot back.

“The Newman girl sir.” The man pointed with his thumb.

Howzer gasped and quickly followed him back to the combat arena. They slammed through the doors and gasped at the scene before them. The two girls were still alive and doing quite well. Howzers attention was drawn to Heidi as she smoothly danced around the creatures with a mix of melee from her daggers and technique attacks.

“Shall I summon Magashi?” The man asked.

“The cast is not important.” Howzer waved, “Besides she still isn’t drawing out that power. We are close.”

Howzer watched for a moment longer then turned to his underling.

“Fetch me my sniper rifle.” He said.

The man nodded and quickly departed.

“Time to push things along.” Howzer sneered.

The man quickly returned, handing Howzer his gun. Howzer moved down the isle few rows then raised the gun. Placing the scope up to his eye, he zeroed in on Amanda first. She was still breathing but the infection was getting worse. She would be turning soon which pleased Howzer to no end. He moved the scope over to Becky who had her back turned to him. She was firing off several rounds of arrows at a Gaozoran who was trying to move in on Heidi. Howzer aimed at the girls left shoulder. It wouldn’t be a kill shot but it would leave her completely defenceless and hopefully a victim of a monster. He pulled the trigger and watched at the small spurt of blood indicated a hit. Becky screamed and dropped to the floor. Heidi spun and cried out for her fallen friend. She ran to Becky’s side to make sure she wasn’t fatally hit. Howzer remained in place so when Heidi looked up at him, she knew exactly who had done it. She shot him a hate filled look so he knew she would be coming for him. He sneered back and took a seat in the stands

Becky was holding her shoulder trying to stop the bleeding. Heidi was fixed on Howzer and only responded when Becky grabbed her by the arm and pulled.

“I could really use a little Resta for this.” She said, “It’s not that bad really.”

“Right.” Heidi nodded and stood up.

She placed her hand over Becky and began concentrating on the Resta spell. She felt the healing energy build up inside and began to flow out through her out stretched hand. A blast of Foie from a Gaozoran interrupted her. She spun and tossed a Foie ball back but the sorcerer quickly moved out of the way. Becky tried to get up so she could move out of harms way but a second shot from Howzer took out her right leg. Heidi spun with death in her eyes and tossed a Foie ball at Howzer. He jumped from his seat just avoiding the ball. His underling was not so lucky and let out a single scream before he was incinerated. This only fuelled Heidi’s anger.

“Yes, get angry.” Howzer thought, “Show me your power.”

Becky screamed as a Delnadian leaped on top of her and drove its claw shield into her left leg pinning her to the floor. It raised it’s sword to drive it into her.

“NO!” Heidi cried and threw out a Megid ball cursing it with all her hate.

The monster instantly fell dead. Heidi turned to face a Gaozoran that was closing in on her. She fired a Barta blast at it and when that only froze the creature she followed with a Diga ball. The monster exploded in a blast of purple goo and molten lava. The second Delnadian hit her from behind sending her flying across the arena. She landed hard and felt a sharp pain in her right wrist. This only fuelled her hate. She jumped to her feet and couldn’t help but let the hate filled power take over just as it had before. She began to levitate off the floor and glide slowly toward the remaining monsters. She didn’t even notice that Sato was no longer with her. The Mag had remained behind meowing at her in a plea to stop what she was doing. She couldn’t hear the little fox. She felt the power build to maximum level and in a flash of light her appearance changed. She was in a black tight fitting full body suit that was cut low in the front. Her boots were now knee high black leather with very high heals. Her hair had turned blood red and her skin turned to a very dark tan. Her eyes had turned solid red and her lips were black as midnight. She softly glided across the arena, her feet just a few inches off of the ground. The two remaining Gaozoran flew in behind her in an attempt to attack from the rear. Heidi’s arms went up and the ground beneath the sorcerers opened up and a pillar of lava shot up swallowing the two monsters. The remaining Delnadian shot right at her but only made it half way when a giant ball of Foie slammed into it. The creature exploded in a shower of purple goo. The Bil De Meran charged from Heidi’s right, nearly stomping on the two injured girls. Heidi’s right arm shot out at the monster. A storm of Zonde rained down on the creature and the girls. Becky screamed as the shock flowed through her with an intensity she never felt before and hoped would never feel again. The monster fell dead and Becky was left gasping on the ground completely stunned and unable to move. Amanda’s breathing was becoming more and more laboured as the infection continued to spread. The three Dilnazen swooped down at her in a frontal attack. Her arms went wide and a wall of ice shard flew out at the monsters. The creatures fell to the floor bleeding and either dead or dying. A few stray shards landed on the girls. This time even Amanda was forced to cry out in pain. Howzers eyes went wide at the sight of this new technique. He quickly pulled a scanner from his pocket and scanned the girl.

“Amazing.” He drooled, “She is channelling dark photons through her body.”

“Now I am impressed.”

Howzer turned to find Magashi standing behind him.

“How…” He started to ask then quickly changed his tone, “I did not summon you here.”

“News travels fast around here and this news intrigued me.” Magashi replied peering at Howzers scanner, “Her whole body radiates of photons. I have never seen such concentrations. Could we be staring at the holy light?”

“No.” Howzer grinned, “Just the opposite. This is more like the demonic light.”

“Amusing.” Magashi grinned, “And just how do you plan to stop it?”

He pointed down at the approaching Newman who was solely fixed on Howzer. Howzer waved to his guard to release more creatures. The guard nodded and the doors opened releasing a hoard of Seed and native creatures. The monsters swarmed in at the three girls. They never got close to Heidi but Amanda and Becky were in no shape to defend themselves. Becky cried out to Heidi for help. Howzer watched intently, the life force inside him craving for blood.

“Tell me Sir.” Magashi smirked, “How do you plan to use something that wants to kill you every time you make it mad?”

“We will have to find a different way of triggering this.” Howzer nodded as he watched his creatures quickly disappear under the power of this not so simple girl.

Becky cried out for her friend as the smaller creatures leaped around her taking nips out of her legs and arms. One took a bite of Amanda’s arm but let go instantly not liking what it tasted. The rest of the monsters were quickly swallowed up in Heidi’s wrath but as she moved closer to Howzer she began to slow. Her head would twitch as if an itch was starting to bug her. Howzer watched intently as she stopped and shook her head. Her eyes returned to their natural blue and she spun to face Becky.

“Becky!” She cried and landed softly on the ground.

She took a step toward her friend as she started her run and in a flash of light she had returned to normal. With daggers slashing she made quick work of the small animals that were trying to feed on her friends. She collapsed beside her badly injured friend. She scooped Becky up into her lap and began to cry.

“I’m so sorry.” She wept, “I had no idea.”

“I’m just glad you’re you again.” Becky winced with pain.

“I will make this better.” Heidi nodded and gently set Becky down.

She placed her hand over Becky and concentrated on Resta. The spell seemed to come harder this time and she had to use all her mental energy to activate it. The healing light finally sprang forth flowing over Becky and Amanda. Becky was healed but Amanda’s infection rejected the health energy. Heidi collapsed to the floor no longer able to stand. Becky sat down beside her exhausted friend and hugged her.

“Have the guards round them up and find suitable cells for them.” Howzer said to his second, “We will continue this tomorrow.”

The guard nodded and started to leave.

“I don’t think this is over.” Magashi pointed at Amanda who was slowly climbing to her feet.

“Belay that.” Howzer barked at the guard.

The three men quickly took their seats and watched as the girl slowly stumbled away from the other two. Becky took a glance over Heidi’s shoulder and saw Amanda slowly limping away.

“Amanda, where are you going?”

Heidi reacted to the question by spinning around to face her cousin. She gasped and managed to climb to her feet.

“Amanda, come back.” She called.

She tried to go after her cousin but stumbled with the first step. Becky caught her before she fell.

“Amanda!” Heidi called again.

The Newman woman ignored all their calls and continued to move toward the arena doors.

“Why doesn’t she respond?” Becky frowned, “She can’t get out that way.”

“The Seed creatures.” Heidi exhaled, “She’s being drawn to the other Seed creatures.”

“We have to stop her.” Becky said gently releasing Heidi.

Heidi dropped to her knees, still not strong enough to stand yet. Becky ran to Amanda and grabbed her by the shoulder. Amanda’s arm swung out knocking Becky away. Becky landed on her back with a yelp and stared up at the girl as she slowly turned and stared down at the human. Becky gasped as she stared back at the mutating horror. Amanda’s face was now a purple and black pulsing blister with blank yellow eyes. Her expression was emotionless and Becky doubted she even knew who Becky was. Amanda turned away and continued her march for the doors. Heidi forced herself to stand and even managed a few steps in Becky’s direction.

“That is one strong Newman girl.” Magashi stated dryly, “I can’t say I’ve ever seen that much inner strength before. Newman’s aren’t exactly the strongest of the races.”

“Yes, but this is no ordinary Newman my dear Magashi.” Howzer waved a finger, “According to our Amanda down there, their family descends from another planet and dimension.”

“I never believed any of that until now.” Magashi nodded, “Perhaps there is some truth to those old stories. In the Endrum Collective we were beginning to suspect there was something more to those Relic sites.”

Their attention was drawn back to the arena by the sound of twisting metal. Amanda had reached the doors and was actually pulling them apart. This prompted the remaining creatures inside to make a run for the door. They poured past the mutating Newman and filed out into the arena. With no further escape route their attention quickly shifted to the two remaining girls. Becky slowly drew her bow and Heidi managed to pull her daggers but she doubted how effective she would be and without any mental energy she couldn’t even turn to her techniques. She took a quick glance up at Howzer but when she saw his smirk had vanished; her scowl quickly turned to a scrunched nose and puzzled expression. Her attention was drawn to a charging Vanda. This native bipedal creature was showing the early signs of Seed mutation. Howzer was creating Seed creatures to experiment with. Heidi managed to bring up her right dagger to block a swinging claw then, through reflex, followed through with the left slashing open the creature’s chest and throat. It took a couple steps past her then fell to the floor twitching in pain as its blood drained away. Heidi quickly put the creature out of its misery with a quick chop to the head. She started to get angry again at Howzer for his treatment of these animals but quickly calmed herself, not wanting a repeat of before. Becky fired off arrows as quickly as she could, trying to keep the creatures at bay. Heidi rushed over to her to cover her back. After a few kills the more normal creatures actually backed off loosing their taste for the fight. The Seed creatures had no reservations and moved in as quickly as they could. Becky fired until the monster got too close then bashed one over the head with her bow. It stunned the creature long enough for her to drop her bow and pull her sabre. She drove it into the monsters chest then kicked the creature back. She blocked a second ones attack then with a clean slice, disarmed it. Heidi downed a few of the creatures as well but it was clear they were out numbered.

“I don’t suppose you have one last technique bomb left?” Becky asked.

“No.” Heidi shook her head slowly.

A great roar from the arena door drew every ones attention. The attacking monsters actually parted a path for a massive Seed monster. The head was very small and maintained much of its Newman features though the flesh had turned purple and blistered. Only a few scraggily strands of blonde hair remand on the scalp. The eyes were black with yellow cat like slits. Two long fangs stuck down from the upper jaw and were accompanied by two shorter ones sticking up from the lower jaw. The rest of the teeth were short and pointed like a sharks. The body had grown to a massive chest and slim abdomen loosing any of its female features it once had. The arms were long and thick packed hard with muscle. The right hand was simply that while the left was that of a sickle blade. Heidi did not want to be on the receiving end of that limb. The legs were long and slim with highly tensioned muscles for explosive speed. It roared again and swept its hand out in front of it. The ground erupted in a wall of molten lava swallowing any creature that was standing over it.

“Is that?” Becky started to ask but the question stuck in her throat.

“Yes, but why did she change into that?” Heidi gasped, “Seed infection always results in a Dilnazen.”

“Something to do with your alien blood perhaps?” Becky asked.

“Maybe.” Heidi shrugged, “Not really important at this time.”

The creature locked gazes with Heidi and started marching for her. It smashed and brushed aside any creature that was foolish to get in its way. The other Seed creatures backed off giving the girls room to move. Heidi signalled for Becky to break right. Becky nodded and darted over to a spot where a group of native creatures were hiding. They ignored her letting her take up her bow and aim for the monster. Heidi took off to her left drawing the monster with her. She tried to launch a Foie ball at it but her mental energy hadn’t recharged enough yet. The Amanda creature responded with a blast of Barta so powerful it sent Heidi flying back against the arena wall. She slumped to the ground covered in frost. She was slow to her feet and gasped as the monster charged at her. She quickly dropped to her right knee then sprang forward slipping under the monsters right arm. She rolled once coming up to her feet with daggers ready. Becky let loose with the arrows aiming for the creature’s upper body and head. The monster turned and started for the new threat but Heidi charged in running between the creatures legs slashing at its calves as she went. The monster roared and spun around using its momentum to swing its arm. Heidi was in the middle of her spin when the arm slammed into her side, tossing her like a rag doll. She landed hard knocking the wind from her lungs. She gulped in two big lungs full of air and watched as the creature charged at Becky. Becky stopped her barrage of arrows and took off in an attempt to escape the charging beast. Heidi sprang to her feet and ran to help her friend. The monster unleashed a massive Gidiga attack. The ground under Becky’s feet erupted in a giant explosion of molten lava. Becky screamed as she was hurled into the air landing hard against the arena wall close to Howzer’s seat. With no linesheild to protect her, Becky suffered sever burns from the Gidiga attack. She didn’t get up. The monster charged in for the final kill. Heidi knew she would not get there in time.

“Becky!” She cried then raised her hand and yelled at the creature, “NO!”

An ice wall sprang up in front of the creature blocking its path. The wall exploded into ice shards that drove into the creatures flesh spilling its purple blood. The creature stopped for a moment, not sure of what to make of the new attack. Heidi stood staring at her hand in disbelief. She knew her mental energy hadn’t recharged enough for a basic attack let alone something of this power. The creature moved forward toward Becky when it was sure no further attacks were coming. This drew Heidi away from her hand and back to the beast.

“You stop right there!” Heidi cried trying to draw back the creature.

It ignored her and stopped over Becky. It turned its head slowly to Heidi staring at her for a second mocking her then turned back to the human girl and raised its claw to strike.

“NO!” Heidi cried.

The claw began its decent straight for Becky’s heart.

“NO!” Heidi screamed throwing out her hands.

A wave of energy washed over her and shot out from her hands, smashing into the monsters chest blasting it away from Becky seconds before the claw drove into its flesh. Howzer climbed to his feet staring down at the stadium in awe. The crowd was quiet with only a few gasps and whispers as everyone focused on the Newman girl. Heidi was hovering just inches off the ground. She was dressed in a long white gown with blue crystal slippers on her feet. Her skin had turned white and sparkled as if she were covered in diamond dust. Her hair was now streaked in a light blue. Her eyes had turned to bright sapphires and her lips were cherry red. Her hair and dress continued to wave in an unfelt breeze. Sato had been caught in the transformation as well and now the Mag was no longer a little metallic blue fox but a large blue wolf. Her hair rippled and waved by the same energy force that was making Heidi’s clothing and hair move.

“That my friend, is the holy light.” Howzer said without bothering to check his scanner.

“Indeed.” Magashi agreed, “I did not think it possible to see such power in human form.”

“I would think this form should be much easier to control than the dark form.” Howzer grinned.

“At least it’s not trying to kill you.” Magashi frowned.

Howzer ignored the Casts remark and continued to watch. The monster climbed to its feet and took another run at Becky. Sato shot out across the arena positioning herself between Becky and the creature. She snarled at the monster with long razor teeth. This caused the monster to pause. Heidi floated across the arena floor in no apparent hurry. A wave of her hand sent another energy bolt out across the arena slamming into the dark creature. All the other creatures in the arena scurried for the twin doors that led back to their cages. The monster brushed off the attack and turned to face Heidi. She let another blast loose tearing into the monsters shoulder blasting away flesh and bone. Becky groaned and opened one eye. Sato turned her head to study the girl and when Becky managed to sit up, Sato bounded off toward the monster. It took a swing at her which she easily dodged. Sato swung around the monsters rear then clamped her mighty jaws down on the creatures left calf. It roared and went to swing at the blue wolf but Heidi blasted it with a bolt right to the chest. The attack tore into the monsters flesh and blasted away the twisted rib cage inside. Sato shook her head ripping the muscle from the bone. The monster unleashed a powerful RAfoie blast sending Sato flying back. The Mag landed on her feet and charged right back. Heidi swung her arm again sending a silver energy blade out that sliced off the creatures arm just below the elbow. Sato leaped at the right claw, chomping down on the creatures forearm. It shook the arm trying to shake Sato but the flesh let go instead of the wolves bite. Sato landed on her feet and dropped the large chunk of Seed flesh. Becky could only watch in amazement at her friend’s short work of the creature but something caught her eye as the creatures flesh was continually blasted away. At first she wasn’t sure but as more became clear she gasped at the figure inside. Becky climbed to her feet and ran toward Heidi.

“Heidi stop!” She cried, “Don’t kill it.”

Heidi ignored her until Becky ran into her side grabbing her arm. Heidi looked down at her but made no expression as to recognize her.

“Don’t kill the monster.” Becky pleaded pointing at the large hole in its chest, “Amanda is in there.”

At first Heidi just stared back with a blank expression but then she blinked. Then she blinked a couple more times. Becky stared back at her with pleading eyes.

“Amanda.” Heidi whispered.

“Yes, your cousin.” Becky nodded, “The one you’re here to save.”

“Amanda!” Heidi cried and turned to the monster.

It was down on its knees as Sato continued to tear away at it. Its strength was slowly slipping away. Heidi waved her right hand and Sato stopped her attack. She lifted up her arms and the creature floated up into the air. She swung her right arm down and the right half of the creature tore away. She swung her left arm down tearing away the remaining flesh leaving the unconscious Newman girl floating in the air. Heidi floated over to her cousin and touched her face.

“Amanda, I am so sorry.”

Amanda’s eyes popped open and she sneered, “Not nearly as much as you’re going to be.”

She swung her arms open and a bright red light blasted out forcing Heidi back. When the light died away Amanda was still floating in the air. Her skin had turned grey and her hair had become dark purple. She wore a tight black short sleeved top that ended just above her bellybutton, a mini skirt and long boots that stopped halfway up her upper leg. The entire out fit was laced with bright purple spider webbing. Amanda’s lips had turned black and her eyes now looked like rubies. She studied herself for a moment before looking up at Heidi.

“Same blood, same potential.” She grinned, “Looks like we just needed a catalyst.”

“We?” Heidi frowned then looked back at Becky.

The girl had dropped to her knees and was bent over ready to collapse. This only slightly registered with Heidi as a shadowy blurry image as she was fighting to keep the photon energy or, Holy Light as it was more commonly referred to, from taking over. Heidi turned back to the sneering Amanda but again she had to fight to even focus on the girl. Heidi took another quick look at Becky and the image was a little clearer. She could see her good friend was in pain and needed her. She turned back to her cousin who was now frowning at her.

“There is nothing you can do for your friend.” Amanda said, “Soon she will be ours.”

“Never.” Heidi growled.

[Freeze]

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Howzer stared down at the two Newmans with a slight smirk on his face. It didn’t get passed Magashi who was starting to grow a little concerned over his master’s strange behaviour.

“Something amuses you Sir?” He asked.

“Our little slave girl is infected with the Seed and yet retains her humanity.” Howzer pointed, “We can use this, control it.”

“Are you sure?” Magashi frowned.

Howzer didn’t reply; instead he stood up and addressed his slave girl.

“Enough of this stupid banter.” He called, “Kill the Guardian quickly then you may join me by my side as my new General.”

Amanda snapped her head toward him and growled, “Oh I intend to kill her, and then I will kill you.”

She turned back to face her cousin who was still having difficulty focusing. Howzer just returned to his seat still smiling.

“That could have gone better.” Magashi said.

“We have nothing to fear.” Howzer replied.

“And how do you know that?” Magashi asked.

Howzer didn’t answer. He just sat smiling at the girl. Magashi just shrugged and returned his attention to the fight. Inside Howzers human part indeed feared the wrath of the slave girl, knowing full well that her new found power could easily destroy him. The Seed being in him knew better. It already could feel the girl’s soul. It could touch it, hear it, and as the infection continued to spread through her it would soon be able to control her. Already it had enough that if she did try to attack, it could easily stop her with a simple command.

Amanda attacked with a simple and primitive punch. Heidi easily swung out of the way and Amanda flew right passed her. Heidi waved her arm launching a light attack at her. Amanda turned just in time to get her hand up to deflect the shot. She returned with a Megid attack. Heidi put up a barrier that absorbed the ball then launched a Foie attack. Amanda dodged out of the way and threw several Zonde bolts at her. Heidi launched her self forward flying at Amanda dodging the incoming lightening bolts. Sato leaped from Amanda’s left and tried to clamp on to her arm. Amanda quickly brought her arm up forming an ice wall. Sato blasted through the wall but the impact sacrificed her momentum and she landed short of the target. Amanda blasted her with a Diga attack knocking the Mag back. She turned just as Heidi drove into her. The two girls landed hard on the ground. Both were quick to get back in the air. Amanda launched a ball of ice. Heidi deflected it with a shield then launched a Zonde blast. Amanda stuck her hands out together and split the bolt then pulled her hands apart throwing the energy to the side. One bolt landed beside Becky knocking her over. She screamed as the shock flowed over her burning more skin.

“No!” Amanda cried.

She launched a Megid ball at Amanda. The attack came with such speed and ferocity that Amanda didn’t have time to dodge or deflect it. The attack slammed into her and drove her into the arena wall. She felt the technique clawing away at her life force. She channelled her inner dark photon to absorb the ball. While Amanda was pinned on the wall, Heidi turned and flew over to Becky. She stared down at the girl until she managed to focus her mind then waved her hand. A white and green light flowed down over the human, healing her wounds and restoring her energy. Becky looked up and smiled.

“Thank you.” She said.

Heidi held out her hand and Becky took it. She suddenly felt weightless and gasped as her feet left the ground. Heidi lifted her back up over the wall and into the stands.

“Get to safety.” Heidi instructed her, “You can’t help here.”

Becky nodded and quickly ran up the steps to one of the higher rows. She wanted to stay out of danger for Heidi’s sake but she wasn’t about to leave her friend. Heidi nodded and started to turn. Amanda slammed into her side driving her into the stone floor. The stones shattered under the impact leaving a shallow hole. Heidi gasped from the hit and tried to get up. Amanda drove her fist into the girls face, then again and again. Blood started to run from Heidi’s broken nose. Amanda went for another strike but she was blasted back by the icy Barta attack. Heidi got up and wiped the blood away. Amanda flew up off the ground and growled. Heidi blasted her with a Foie attack then by her white energy blast. Amanda slammed into the ground. A small trickle of red blood ran down her lower lip. She sported a nasty scrape on her right bicep that dripped purple blood. She howled and launched several Zonde blasted then charged at Heidi. Heidi blocked the Zonde attacks but not the charging girl. She slammed into Heidi’s chest and drove her across the arena floor and into the wall. She pulled back her arm and drove it down on Heidi. Heidi twisted her head to the side just narrowly avoiding Amanda’s punch. Heidi slammed her fist into Amanda’s cheek and when her grip loosened Heidi drove her fist into Amanda’s gut. The girl reeled back and Heidi blasted her with a Foie attack. The fire ball slammed into Amanda driving her into the ground. Heidi moved in to finish the fight but as she approached the small crater a volcanic eruption blasted up knocking her back. Amanda flew up out of the pillar of molten rock and charged at Heidi driving her fist into Heidi’s chest.

Becky paced back and forth as she watched the two Newman’s battle it out. Heidi had told her to stay back but she needed to help. Howzer and the rest of the audience were completely captivated by the fight. She stopped and gasped as Heidi was blasted back by the lava blast. She relaxed when she saw her friend was ok until Amanda caught her by surprise. Heidi was driven into the ground and Amanda charged up a Megid ball. Becky drew her bow and fired. The arrow flew true and straight right for the girls head. Just as it was about to strike, Amanda raised her hand the photon arrow was split in two. It quickly dissipated soon after. Becky lowered her bow staring at the Newman. It had stopped Amanda’s Megid ball but as she slowly turned her head and glared at Becky, the human knew she was in trouble.

“Uh oh!” She gasped and bolted up the isle.

Amanda swept her arm out at Becky’s location and the stands exploded in a massive fire ball. Screams and shear panic followed as the crowd began to fight each other to the exit. The blast zone was littered with the dead and the injured cried out for help. Amanda turned back to Heidi with a grin on her face. The grin quickly faded as Heidi turned to her and Amanda saw for a split second, Heidi’s crystal blue eyes flash red. Heidi sliced her arms at Amanda releasing two photon blades. Amanda gasped as the blades slashed across her. Heidi followed with a white ball of photon energy then a Barta blast. Amanda could not defend and was driven into the ground. She tried to get up but Heidi cast a shower of Zonde upon her. She followed this with a Diga blast and more of the photon blades. Amanda tossed a weak Foie ball at Heidi who simply glided to the side then blasted her with a Foie ball then more of the white photon blades. Amanda groaned and tried to lift her arm but it quickly dropped back to the ground. Heidi glided up to the girl and stared down at her. She lifted her right arm up and Amanda floated up off the ground hanging limp in the air. Heidi brought her other arm up beside the right one then closed both fists as if she was gripping something. She slowly began to pull her arms apart and Amanda let out an ear shattering scream. Those few who hadn’t made it out yet quickly turned back to the arena. Becky had managed to avoid the blast and was standing a couple steps from the top exit. She gasped and covered her mouth as the Newman girl began to pull apart. Heidi continued to pull her arms apart and a shadowy duplicate of her cousin slowly began to emerge. Amanda screamed in extreme pain as Heidi continued to remove the Seed being from her cousin. With one last pull the beast popped free and Amanda slumped back to the ground. Howzer quickly got from his seat and started to leave.

“Don’t you wish to see the ending?” Magashi smirked.

“There is nothing left to see.” Howzer replied, “It is over. We must leave here now.”

Magashi looked down at the arena then nodded at Howzer.

“I believe you are right.”

The two quickly made for the exit disappearing in the crowd. The Seed Amanda struggled to get free but Heidi held it tight in her photon grip. She brought her right arm down in a slashing motion from the top right finishing bottom left. A photon blade slashed across the monster. It was sliced in half and Heidi followed with two more blades. The monsters pieces slowly floated down and vaporised into dust before they hit the floor. Heidi turned to the audience where Becky had been standing but the girl had disappeared. Without hesitation or emotion, Heidi turned back to her cousin. She lifted up her hand and both Amanda and Sato floated up off the floor. She looked up at the ceiling and in a flash of light blasted up through the rock with Sato and Amanda in tow. They flew across the desert sand and passed the cave where Heidi had met Kireek. The sun slowly slipped below the horizon as night time moved in. Heidi gently landed deep in the desert as her power finally expired. She reverted to her normal self the moment her feet touched the ground. She immediately collapsed not having the strength to support her self. Her last visible image was that of her little blue Mag floating up to her face, then her eyes slipped shut and darkness consumed her.


The first thing Heidi saw as she opened her eyes was the concerned face of her father staring down at her.

“Heidi?” He said and a smile grew across his face.

“Dad?” She replied rubbing the sleep from her eyes. “Where am I?”

“In the hospital on the Colony.” Jonathan replied, “We found you lying out in the desert…”

“Becky!” Heidi gasped springing up in her bed.

“She’s fine.” Jon replied pushing her back down, “If it weren’t for her, we wouldn’t have found you.”

“How?” Heidi asked.

“Seems she stole a transport from that Illuminus base.” Jon said, “She ran out of fuel trying to get to you and ended up walking almost all the way back to you. Smart girl too, she took the ships transponder with her. Oh, and she managed to get your gear back too but she won’t tell us how.”

“Where is she?”

“Back with her family on Parum.” Jon nodded.

“And Amanda?”

“She’s recovering here in the hospital.” Jon said.

“She has the same power I do Dad.” Heidi said concern flooding across her face, “She, We can change. It’s this amazing power. I don’t know how to describe it.”

“Not quite like you.” A deep metallic voice said.

Heidi looked to the door where the voice had come from. Cerberus was standing in the door way smiling at her. He ducked through the door and sat down beside her bed.

“Becky told us what happened.” Cerberus said, “The doctors have done some tests on you both and while Amanda does have much of the same Corellian DNA you do, she is missing some. You managed to unlock your power all on your own but Amanda can not use hers without help. In the case of the Illuminus it looks like the Seed virus filled in the missing pieces.”

“I don’t remember anything.” Heidi frowned, “Just strange images of monsters and I remember seeing Becky but I...”

She grabbed her head as a massive headache swarmed over her.

“Take it easy sweetie.” Jon said grabbing her shoulder, “You still have a lot of recovering to do. What ever it was that happened to you drained most of your mental energy.”

“Dad.” Heidi said as her eye lids grew heavy.

“Yes?” Jon asked leaning closer.

“We have a family.” Heidi grinned and drifted off to sleep.

“Yes we do.” He smiled, “Yes we do.”

END