Chapter 11 – Mar Saba

Emma woke with a start. She opened her eyes and saw that the dark oppressive clouds were gone. A beautiful deep blue-green sky filled the forward view screen.

“Ah, you are awake! Good!” a familiar voice called out from beside her, “I have taken the liberty of preparing a snack for you and Shnooby. I was in error when I said that none of Onus’ meals would be served here. It appears that he packed some snacks that would be to your liking. He also packed small meals for Shnooby as well.” As he said this Tobok handed Emma what looked like a sandwich and a glass of deep red fluid. Emma took them and looked around for Shnooby. She found him on her other side finishing his meal. He looked up at her, licked her hand, and bent down again to take a drink of water.

Emma took a bite of her sandwich and tasted peanut butter. She took a drink of the red liquid and tasted cherry juice.

“Wow! How did he do this?” asked a pleasantly surprised Emma, taking another bite of her sandwich.

“Onus is extremely good at his duties. He has been doing this for a very long time. It also helped that I had a sample of peanut butter and cherry juice in my cache of supplies. I must admit that he even surprises me sometimes,” said Tobok.

As Emma finished her sandwich and cherry juice, she kept looking out her window. The landscape had changed a great deal. An endless sea of green washed up onto a wondrous, snowcapped mountain range. To call it a mountain range did not do it justice. It was like a continuous string of massive cathedrals with an elegant series of spires stretching for the sky. These were not like any pictures of mountains that she had seen on Earth.

“Incredible, isn’t it?” asked Tobok, also caught up in his own reverie.

“WOW!” replied Emma.

“We are almost there. Beyond that tall peak another range of mountains branches off of these. Mar Saba is located at the head of the valley formed by these two mountain ranges.”

The gondola shook a few times due to the fierce winds surrounding the tall peak but it continued to soar past it into the valley Tobok mentioned. The valley itself was just as beautiful as the surrounding forests. As they got closer Emma could make out large intricate gardens starting at the intersection and fanning out into the valley. At the very intersection there was a large open area surrounded by the large domes that Emma had seen at the spaceport. It was to this point that Zeeno was taking them. They swooped down and at what seemed the last possible minute they came out of the dive and settled ever so gently onto the landing area.

“Ah, home at last! It has been too long since I have set foot at Mar Saba. Come now, we must pack our things and get them ready for off loading. While we do that, I suggest you go outside and thank Zeeno for his efforts in bringing us here.”

Tobok walked over to and opened the hatch. He then extended the ramp and made his way to the back where his treasures were stored.

Emma looked down at Shnooby and caught him staring up at her. They both ran for the door and down the ramp. She walked into golden sunlight and air so sweet with the scents of living things it almost made her cry. She too had this sense that she had also finally arrived home.

Shnooby was rolling around on the ground, enjoying the feeling of solid ground beneath his feet. He then ran off to the edge of the landing area and wasted no time in adding part of himself to this place’s ecosystem. Emma guessed that he expressed his own reverence for this place by not doing his business out in the open.

As Emma looked up at the mountain rising up to her right she saw huge shiny metal doors inset into the mountain itself. A large stone staircase descended down from the doors to the far edge of the landing zone. The stone used on the staircase was pearlescent and its color changed depending where you stood. It went from light yellow all the way to a deep red. As with everything else that she had seen, the stairs seem to have grown out of the solid rock. That same feeling of features grown from the rock persisted as she looked up past the staircase and the massive doors. The whole side of the mountain was dotted with what she guessed were windows and balconies some of which extended a good distance from the almost sheer face of the mountain. She followed the windows and balconies until they disappeared up the tall peak that they passed on their way in.

She then swept her gaze back toward the staircase and kept going so that she ended up looking out over the valley. The landing zone where she now stood was butted up against the staircase. As she looked past the landing area she saw the housing for the gryfs acting as a sort of buffer zone between the landing area and the gardens that started just beyond them. The gardens themselves nearly took Emma’s breath away. The explosion of colors sought to overload her eyes. Every color and shade imaginable was stretched out before her and yet there was a deliberate ordering of those colors. The colors at the starting edge were deep purples and blues that blended into greens and yellows and peaked with some fiery reds in the center. The rest was a virtual mirror image of the side closest to her. The gardens ended at what looked like a large orchard and beyond that a dense pine forest that stretched as far as the eye could see, a virtual ocean of deep green.

When she was able to tear her eyes away from the majesty laid out before her she saw Zeeno at the very first dome off of the landing area. He was halfway in the dome eagerly devouring a meal of what looked to Emma like fruits and vegetables. She made her way to the dome but just before she reached it Zeeno pulled himself out of the dome and turned to her. He lowered his head so that Emma could stroke his feathers and touch his food stained beak. She again felt warmth coming through her hand from Zeeno and she once again willed warmth back to him. “Thank you,” whispered Emma. This seemed to satisfy Zeeno for he purred and turned back to his meal.

When Emma made it back to the gondola she saw that a group of robed figures led by a larger group of rangers had emerged from the massive doors and were heading down the stairs toward the gondola. Panicked, she quickly looked for Shnooby. She hadn’t noticed that he had come back to her side and was growling deeply as he too noticed the group coming their way. Tobok had found a floating cart and had just finished putting the last container on when he too noticed them.

“Tobok, who are they?” asked Emma nervously.

“It looks like they are our escort. Do not worry, Emma, they are just here to take us up to meet the Sangha. In fact, it looks like those robed figures are some of the Sangha. It appears that they are taking my reports a little more seriously than I thought,” replied Tobok.

As the group neared, the two rangers that had accompanied them stood at rigid attention. A large Sabreth ranger, whom Emma assumed was their leader, made his way to the front of the group and motioned for the contingent to stop a few yards from the gondola.

“Report!” he barked at them.

The two rangers responded in unison, “The journey was without incident. The Gen……altered human child has shown signs of advanced abilities but is not aggressive. The altered Venok is under the control of the child and remains docile in her presence. Security risk is moderate.”

The ranger leader scowled at Tobok and stepped aside to let the robed figures pass. There were four of them, two looked to be Sabreth, one looked very much like Onus and the last Emma had not seen before. It, Emma didn’t know if it was male or female, was very tall, at least ten feet and it looked like it had a tail. Its face was covered by the hood of its robes so she could not see it yet but as it moved closer it pulled its hood back to reveal a thing out of Earth’s medieval lore. Tobok had told her about them but to see one was quite a different thing.

“You’re a dragon!” Emma blurted out.

The tall creature looked at her with what Emma thought was an air of amusement. It had been walking toward Tobok but turned to stop in front of her instead.

“You must be Emma. My name is Zal’Thor and I guess that, from what I have seen of the cultural materials sent to us by Tobok, you can call me a dragon, yes, it said to her. By the tone and pitch of its voice, Emma guessed that it was a he. “You seem surprised. How very refreshing to be in the presence of someone who is still capable of such wonder! I am very pleased to meet you, Emma.” He bent low in front of her and it just felt natural to bow back to him.

“Tobok, it has been too long my friend! You look well. It seems that life on Earth has been good to you,” he said turning to Tobok.

Tobok bowed deeply to him as he said, “My time on Earth was indeed pleasant but I missed my home a great deal.”  When he straightened up, Zal’Thor launched forward and gave Tobok a hug. Tobok politely returned it.

“Why the formalities?” asked Zal’Thor.

“I heard about your ascension to 2^nd so I naturally assumed……….”

“Oh nonsense, are we not all brothers and sisters here? If I had gotten this assignment and not you I am sure you would have eventually ascended too,” he said putting a little too much emphasis on “eventually”.

“I guess then it is you to whom I owe a debt of gratitude since it was your strong lobbying efforts and influence that got me “chosen” for this assignment. Otherwise I would not have met this wonderfully talented little lady from Earth,” Tobok replied calmly though Emma suspected that his calm was forced.

“Yes, well, I knew that this assignment would blossom into something very important but enough of this. The Sangha awaits and we must not keep them waiting so let us…..”

Zal’Thor suddenly stopped talking and turned to the others in the group and that was when Emma noticed it too. A great sense of unease had permeated the group and it was all directed at her. Zal’Thor turned back with what looked like a smile on his face.

“They are surprised that you are able to speak with me without the use of a translating device. We give our new listeners translating devices when they arrive so that they can communicate with us and each other since the talent that you are exhibiting now is not usually present in someone so young.”

“The fault for that is all mine,” Tobok replied suddenly. He turned to face Emma and bent down so that his face was almost level with her own, “Please forgive me Emma, I was planning on giving you a non-functional translator but in my excitement at being home I forgot.”

“That’s OK, I’m kind of getting used to that by now.”

A low growl came from Emma’s left side.

“Ah and this is Shnooby I presume. He looks a little smaller than your average Venok but I hear that your abilities are also quite unlike your kind as well,” said Zal’Thor closely scrutinizing Shnooby.

“Come, let us proceed then. We have a lot of questions for you, Tobok, that I hope your impending report will answer,” said Zal’Thor as he turned and walked back to the group still standing at the place they had stopped. “Captain Solan, please see to Tobok’s and Emma’s things,” he said to the lead ranger who did not look pleased at this request. Zal’Thor turned and motioned them to follow.

Emma walked up to Tobok and took his hand. They then proceeded to follow Zal’Thor back to the staircase and the large doors. As they walked, Emma again looked up at the mountain before her. It was then that she noticed that the pearlescence of the stairs extended up the face and branched all the way up the mountain. The changing colors entranced Emma so much that she almost tripped on the first step of the staircase.

“Are you alright?” asked Tobok.

“Yes, I’m fine. It’s just that I have never seen a mountain like this in any of my picture books. It’s beautiful!” She looked at the steps of the staircase and back up at the mountain. “What is this stuff anyway?”

“It is a type of quartz. You see this mountain is actually an inactive volcano. The quartz was produced during its active stage many millions of years ago. The quartz blended with the other materials being spewed from the volcano as the mountain was built up and now it is pretty much everywhere. It does have some other more practical uses than simply decoration as you will see once we are inside,” replied Zal’Thor over his shoulder.

As they neared the massive doors, they parted noiselessly and slid sideways into the walls. Emma felt a breeze at her back, which seemed to want to push her inside. As the whole group made it past the threshold the doors quickly shut behind them and the breeze she felt ceased.

She was expecting the inside to be dark and that it would take her eyes a while to adjust but she was surprised to find that she saw very well. In fact, the inside was not dark but lit with a bluish green glow. She looked around for the source of the light but could not find any. After looking around the hall intently for a few minutes she was surprised to find that the glow came from the very walls themselves. Specifically, from fissures in the walls and the way that they branched out to cover the entire hall seemed very familiar. Then it hit her. As she turned to report her discovery she noticed that Zal’Thor was staring intently at her.

“Is there something wrong?” she asked.

“No, not at all. I believe that you have something to tell us, do you not?” he asked. Tobok, who had been admiring the hall as if for the first time tore himself from his reverie and turned to listen in on the conversation.

“It’s just that this place is not only beautiful but very practical,” replied Emma. She then looked at Tobok suddenly feeling uncomfortable. As if reading her mind, Tobok said,” It is alright, you can speak freely here.”

“Well, OK, if you say so. I think I know where the light is coming from in the hall.”

“Please continue,” urged Zal’Thor, now clearly interested.

“It is coming from the fissures in the walls. They look very much like the ones outside except these are a blue green color. I think that the quartz runs right through the walls and because of that it draws in the light from outside,” replied Emma cautiously.

Zal’Thor did not say anything right away but just kept looking at her like he was waiting for her to say more. When Emma just stood there and stared back at him Zal’Thor finally asked,” Can you tell me why the light it gives off is blue green in color?”

Emma thought about it a while and eventually said,” I’m sorry but I don’t know why.”

Tobok, who had been silent up until now, asked her,” What colors were the quartz reflecting outside?”

“Red, yellow, and I think I saw orange,” replied Emma.

“And you already said that the colors in here are blue and green, right?” he asked her.

“Yes,” she replied not knowing where this was going yet.

“What does that remind you of?” Tobok asked her.

Emma thought a little bit and then said, “A rainbow.”

“Very good! And what is a rainbow?”

“Oh yeah, wait a minute, a rainbow happens when the sun comes out during a rainstorm. The rain that is still falling breaks up the light coming from the sun into all of the colors that make up that light. I get it now!” Emma proclaimed, recognition dawning on her face. “The quartz is like the rain in that it breaks up the light that hits it into those colors. Since I saw red, orange and yellow being reflected from the quartz outside that means it wasn’t letting those colors through. The colors I didn’t see were the ones that the quartz passed through and it lets them out in here!” she said triumphantly.

“Very good, Emma, very good!” Tobok told her with a certain amount of pride.

Emma beamed. Zal’Thor, on the other hand, was still staring at her as if there was more to be said. When, again, Emma just stared at him with out saying a word, Zal’Thor asked her, “Why do we not see the color purple? And this time there will be no help from Tobok.”

Emma, still eager to please, thought and thought about it but, in the end, had to admit defeat, “I don’t know.”

Zal’Thor, a thin smile spreading across his pebbly lips, shook his head from side to side as he turned to lead them deeper into the hall. As he started forward he nonchalantly said over his shoulder, “After everything I have read I guess I just expected more from you.”

Emma was devastated. Tobok gripped her shoulder, “Do not take anything he says to heart. He is nothing but an elitist snob and personally I think he feels threatened by you.”

“Threatened by me? Why would someone like him be threatened by me?” asked Emma.

“Well, before we heard of you, Zal’Thor was a rising star among the Vanguard. He was the youngest initiate ever to start developing advanced abilities. He has almost as much talent as he has ambition. Now, after reading my reports and meeting you in person, he understands that you are for real and he fears that you will be the focus of attention here, not him,” replied Tobok reassuringly.

“But I don’t want to be the focus of attention. I never asked for this and I don’t want it,” Emma said hotly.

“I know and I am glad to hear that because much of that attention will not be good. Many beings come here to work hard at a chance to become a Vanguard. It usually takes a lifetime of intensive study and meditation. Now here comes someone who quite possibly has all of the advanced Vanguard abilities and she is only a child. Now throw in the fact that genetic manipulation was involved, well let me just say that you will not be winning any popularity contests.”

“Then why did you bring me here,” Emma shot back.

“Because this is the only place that I know of where we can keep you safe and at the same time teach you to control these dangerous abilities that you have been manifesting. I also believe that, as a whole, the Vanguard are still a noble and just collection of individuals. Every group, no matter who they are, have their share of “bad apples” as they say on Earth. One cannot judge a group by the actions of a few of its members and the group should help these “bad apples” decide if they truly wish to stay with or be associated with a group whose principles they no longer follow. There are a lot of good people here, Emma, and I think they will like you almost as much as I do,” he said with a smile on his face.

Emma gave his big hand a squeeze. Why was it that Tobok was always able to make things better?

Together they started off after Zal’Thor and the other robed figures. Emma thought about what Tobok said and it didn’t matter if he was right or wrong she was just glad that he was there, oh and Shnooby too. She did notice that no matter how much they lagged behind, the rangers were always a step or two behind them. Apparently they still viewed Emma and Shnooby as threats.

They walked down a large hallway that led to the right and it was here that Emma noticed the walls. They were decorated in such a way as to make the most of the coloring of the light. They were adorned with complimentary colors that picked up the light and re-radiated it. The effect was that the walls glowed in multiple hues of blue and green. The end effect at least on her was that it deeply relaxed her. After only a few dozen steps she had almost forgotten her exchange with Zal’Thor. There was still one question though that refused to submerge into the rest of her relaxing thoughts.

“Tobok, what do you do for lighting at night?”

“I will show you at the appropriate time, come now, we have almost caught up with them. Do not look at me like that, I am not avoiding telling you it is just that you need to see it yourself, otherwise it spoils the surprise,” he replied cheerfully.

As they hurried on, Emma noticed that the hallway was getting brighter and changing color to a reddish yellow. It was also getting warmer, much warmer and windy. She saw that the light was coming from the far end of the hallway. They caught up to Zal’Thor at the point when the hallway opened up into an immense area that reminded Emma of a chimney, although this chimney was gigantic. They stepped out onto a wide walkway that went all the way around the chimney. It also had ramps that connected each level and spiraled up as far as she could see. When she looked down she saw a huge grate covering the entire open space several levels below them. Each level had several openings leading off who knows where. This place was looking like it was far bigger than even she imagined. Then, when it couldn’t get any more awe inspiring she heard music. At first she thought it was just the wind howling but the more she listened she knew it wasn’t that simple. It was like hundreds of wind instrument from flutes all the way to oboes playing all at once. She couldn’t make out any kind of a melody to it like it was all jumbled up but it wasn’t annoying either. In fact, when she just stood still and really listened she was almost able to selectively pick out certain notes and ignore others. The result was a ghostly, flowing melody.

“Amazing is it not?” Tobok said, shocking her out of her reverie.

“It’s amazing!” she said breathlessly. “At first I just heard the wind, then it became a really mixed up song with all of the instruments playing over each other but when I really listened, it became a very beautiful song,” replied a confused Emma.

“The heat from the magma far below and the cooler air at the top of this vent causes the winds but the hallways and tunnels running off of the vent is what causes the tones. Specifically it is the windows and doors in the rooms down each hallway. You see, everyone who lives here is a musician. The doors here are not like the ones on Earth. They have openings in them. So, when someone opens or closes a window or a door, the tones change. It is a constantly shifting collection of melodies and everyone has a part in making it,” replied Tobok, “It is very much like a symphony of life. Everyone who lives here affects this music by just going about their daily business.” He too was enjoying the effect. “I had truly been away for way too long,” he whispered.

“What about the single song that I started to hear?”

“Well you can credit your mind with that. You see, the vast majority of sentient beings react similarly. They hear the sounds and if they really concentrate their own minds sort out those tones and create, for them, what they consider music. The mind is constantly trying to establish order from the chaos of the messages that the senses send to it. The difference here is that these sounds are complimentary to that process. Everyone who comes here and hears this eventually ends up hearing music.”

“Are you done with your lesson, Tobok?” asked Zal’Thor, shattering Emma’s newfound inner peace.

“One is never done with learning, Zal’Thor,” replied Tobok.

“Quite. We will go on ahead and let the rest of the Sangha know that you are on your way. You do remember the way, Tobok?” Zal’Thor asked mockingly.

“As if I had walked it just yesterday,” Tobok replied calmly.

“Very well, see you there,” replied Zal’Thor. Then he and the other robed figures stepped over the edge and disappeared.

Emma shrieked and ran for the edge only to shriek once again as Zal’Thor and the robed figures shot straight up into the air, their robes unfurled like sails on a ship. Tobok joined her at the edge. They looked straight up following the shrinking figures until they couldn’t see them anymore.

“Forgive me, I should have warned you but I did not think he would show off like that. They are riding the rising hot air. You will see allot of adepts do that. It is the easiest and fastest way to traverse all of the levels. It is very tricky since you have to make sure you are always riding an updraft but the worst is getting on and off,” Tobok said shaking his head.

“Can you do it?” asked Emma.

“Yes, but I prefer walking.”

“Why is that?” asked a confused Emma. “I always wondered what it would be like to fly.”

“When you walk you get to meet people along the way. You get to talk to them and share in their daily lives. When you ride the thermals, you detach yourself from the very thing that gives us our abilities - LIFE. Whoa, did I say that? I am getting preachy in my, ahem, middle age,” said an uncomfortable Tobok.

“I like this change. It suits you,” replied Emma.

“Ahem, well enough of this. You heard Zal’Thor, the Sangha is waiting and we have a long walk ahead of us, let us begin.” With that he took Emma’s hand in his and with Shnooby by her side and the ranger guards at their back they began their climb.

Chapter 12 – The Sangha

It was the most fun Emma has had walking – ever. Tobok was determined to show her why walking The Core, that’s what they called it, was far better than riding the thermals. Emma thought that Mar Saba was going to be some sort of monastery where everything was gloomy and quiet because everyone was praying all the time but it was quite the opposite.

It was vibrant and very much alive with activity. The “people” that she met, even though they were aliens to her she kept referring to them more and more as people, were very friendly. There were shops and restaurants on almost every level. Not surprisingly, Tobok knew almost all of them by name. There were some new additions when Tobok was away but he quickly remedied that by introducing himself and Emma.

While Tobok got back into the local gossip scene, Emma got a chance to find something for Shnooby to snack on since it had been a while since he ate. He had been pretty good on the way up and only had two minor and one major accident but that was to be expected from a pup. Emma also got a chance to look around a little more at this wondrous place. Just like the hallway they had entered through, the Core’s walls were also decorated to make the most of the lighting here. Near the bottom where the light from the magma was strongest, the walls were painted in bright reds and yellows. They were also inlaid with reflective stones that Emma thought were just for decoration. It turned out that beauty was yet again married with functionality. The stones were arranged in such a way as to reflect as much of the light as high up the Core as possible. Each successively higher level also had this same arrangement and that was why, this high up, it was still so bright.

Emma also found out that apartments on each level or group of levels denoted how far a certain individual had progressed in their studies. Tobok said it was an incentive to each listener, that’s what they called the students, to strive to do well during their time here. He also told her that since sometimes it took so long to see the results of one’s efforts, many would simply give up and leave. So The Trinity came up with a series of incentives to keep listeners from leaving. Emma thought that their efforts were in vain since for a place of this size there did not seem to be many people here. Tobok had told her that they had come just before the start of a new cycle. The Vanguard gave their listeners and families time off from their studies to “put what they have learned into perspective”. Tobok had timed their departure from Earth in the hopes of arriving before everyone else to ease Emma’s transition to Mar Saba. He had put it like this: “If you get to a party first, the ones that come after have to introduce themselves to you, which is a more comfortable position to be in.”

The only ones not enjoying themselves were their ranger escort. The ranger captain had excused himself shortly after Zalthus had left. He had muttered about doing something more important. He had left them with two rangers. They kept reminding Tobok that the Sangha were waiting but Tobok insisted that they knew the duration of their journey and would account for a little sightseeing. Still, the rangers were persistent and it wasn’t until Tobok ordered them to cease that they did. Emma thought that they were more concerned over Shnooby than they were about the Sangha. They kept a very close watch over him and, at times, had even extended a knife or a spike from their hands when Shnooby would turn and growl at them. Yes, Emma had actually seen them grow from their hands. This was yet one more thing to ask Tobok about.

Emma had not realized how long their journey was or how high up they really were until they reached the top. Tobok had told her that they had climbed one hundred and thirty five levels and it had taken them a little over four hours to get here. She nearly collapsed from exhaustion and was surprised that she was the only one.

“Aren’t you tired?” she asked Tobok.

“Once you get to my level you have already had extensive study in natural body reinforcement. You see I can boost my body’s endurance level. It is just one of many things that you will learn here,” replied Tobok cheerfully.

“I guess the rangers have had that training too?” The two rangers, like Tobok, looked like they had just crossed a street instead of marching up one hundred and thirty five levels.

“It is essential that body reinforcement be mastered before even considering becoming a ranger.”

“Well, I hope that you don’t mind that this simple, unreinforced human needs to rest for a little while,” she answered back. This drew a chuckle from one of the rangers that was quickly quashed by the acting leader.

“Now, now we should never suppress laughter. It is one of the critical things that we are lacking in these uncertain times,” Tobok chastised the acting leader.

But the leader was not about to back down, “The captain teaches us that it is discipline that we lack and that any lapse is a sign of weakness of character.”

For some reason it looked like Tobok was feeling feisty, “If one takes oneself too seriously they will be unable to admit when they are wrong. It is this constant self evaluation that keeps us from abusing our gifts and the ability to laugh sets the perfect stage for this review.”

The ranger did not have anything else to say. He made a gesture to his colleague and both stood at attention. Tobok turned back to Emma shaking his head. “It frightens me how mindless we Vanguard are becoming. Impromptu discourse on social theory was encouraged when I was his age, now they are told what to say and cannot argue when someone questions their statements,’ he whispered to Emma. In a louder voice he asked, “Are you ready to meet the Sangha?”

“I guess I can’t avoid it so let’s get this over with,” replied a nervous Emma.

“That is the spirit! I would have been disappointed if you would have tried to hide your true feelings. Do not worry, I will be there by your side if you need me,” replied Tobok.

He gripped her hand as he helped her up. She gripped right back as they approached a set of massive doors that were inlaid with shards of the quartz material that infused this place. They sparkled with every shade from deep red to bright yellow. Four large rangers dressed in ceremonial cloaks stood on either side of the doors. As they approached, their escort took up positions on either side of the doors and the doors split down the middle as they slid sideways disappearing into the walls. It was dark but they heard a great commotion inside. A harsh, high pitched voice was yelling in anger while the voices that answered it did so evenly, calmly. Emma looked up at Tobok with a confused expression. Tobok merely winked at her and all three stepped into the darkened room.

As soon as they entered the doors shut quickly and silently behind them. With the doors closed the yelling became louder. The first thing she saw was a large glowing figure standing in the middle of a very large room. Emma guessed that he was a very important and rich person by how he was dressed - long shimmering robes with what looked like jewels sewn into the hem. The fingers of his hands were almost completely covered in jewels and his hat looked more like a crown and glowed with some inner fire. She guessed that he was a Sabreth and the way that he was shaking his hands merely confirmed what she already knew from the tone of his voice - he was quite angry.

“You have some nerve bringing the child to Vihara and not to the capital planet as you were ordered to! Just who do you think you are? In case you have forgotten you are all employees of this government and as such you are obligated to follow the orders of said government!” the tall figure raged.

“Oh boy, he was talking about her,” she thought nervously.

The two voices that answered were completely the opposite in both tone and volume of the Sabreth’s. They would have been quite soothing if not for the fact that one would start a sentence while the other one would finish it.

“Our apologies but we concluded that due to the nature of her emerging abilities…”

“it made more sense to bring her here.”

“If her abilities are indeed what we suspect that they are…”

“then she will need at the very least some basic training to control those abilities.”

“You have read Third Adept Tobok’s report…”

“about what she did to the Verossi who tried to abduct her have you not?”

“Those abilities are quite adva…….”

“Yes, yes, of course I read those reports and that was why it was deemed safer to bring her here. We have the best scientific minds here and we will be able to analyze her to determine what………..”

“Please pardon our interruption but we strongly feel…”

“that studying her like some lab specimen is not the best course of action.”

“We feel that by allowing her to train here we will be able to, in time,…”

“uncover the perpetrators behind this act of violence and their motivations.”

“Since when did you determine that you had any kind of authority to override governmental decrees? I certainly did not see any legislation come across my desk that stated “The Vanguard now answer to no one but themselves”! Now, I will tell you what you will do right now! You will take the Earth girl and the Venok back to the spaceport and await a governmental transport that will bring her here! DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR!” bellowed the Sabreth.

“Yes, you have made…”

“yourself quite clear.”

“AND STOP THAT ALREADY! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW ANNOYING THAT IS!” screamed the Sabreth.

“No, we had no idea…”

“that it was annoying at all,” continued the duo.

“The transport will be arriving in approximately…” the Sabreth tried to continue.

“We must apologize for this interruption but…”

“we cannot turn her over to you at this time,” persisted the pair.

“I thought that we had all of this settled,” the Sabreth said through clenched teeth.

“Yes, we believe…”

“that we have as well.”

“Very well then make her ready for the transport that will arrive in two days local time,” the Sabreth said evenly.

“We cannot do that due to Amendment 335,…”

“Paragraph 1 of the Vanguard charter, which states…”

“that any matters directly affecting the Vanguard will be under the…”

“control of the Vanguard for no less than 90 standard days…”

“and no greater than 180 days. It was part of your…”

“governmental administrative reduction initiative,…”

“was it not?”

The Sabreth was livid. He made to open his mouth when he suddenly looked away from the speakers. He gesticulated like a madman at someone out of the field of view but whatever he was saying could not be heard. When he did look back there was cold menace in his eyes.

“You do realize that I can change that amendment within a matter of hours. What will you do then? What other trick will you employ…”

“We must once again apologize for yet another interruption but…”

“we would then move the matter to the Galactic High Court which…”

“would, in turn, tie up this matter for far greater than the original…”

“Amendment 335 to the Vanguard Charter.”

“You cannot invoke the amendment to the charter in this matter! How does this little girl from a remote, backward planet directly concern the Vanguard?” he yelled.

“We think that…”

“it is quite obvious.”

“When it appears that someone is attempting…”

“to duplicate Vanguard abilities artificially…”

“it most certainly directly…”

“affects the Vanguard.”

The Sabreth quickly turned away once again from the speakers. When he turned back his expression was unreadable. “Very well, we will abide by the amendment but, after that period of time, we will take custody of the child and the Venok. I have just dispatched the battle craft Valorr to Vihara. They will stay at Vihara for the duration of your investigation as an added safety measure. The child and the Venok will not be allowed to leave Vihara for any reason. Any attempt to remove the child or the Venok from Vihara will be dealt with harshly. Do you understand?”

“Completely! We are very pleased with the efficiency of our wonderful…”

“system of government that allows us…”

“to quickly resolve issues between the…”

“various agencies of said government.”

In addition may we say…”

The glowing figure winked out of existence. At the same time the room brightened enough for Emma to see that it was filled with variously shaped robed figures. She also saw that every one of those figures turned, in unison to stare at her.

At that very moment Emma understood the saying “you could cut the tension with a knife”. Everyone in the large domed room just stared at her without saying a thing. This moment was mercifully broken by the speakers as they approached her.

As they came closer Emma got her first good look at them. Dragons! Very much like Zal’Thor yet different as well. These two lacked the arrogant air that surrounded Zalt’Thor. They seemed kind and understanding.

“Please forgive us our moment of rudeness but, as you saw, we have been besieged with matters that are directly related with you,” they both said in unison. They both extended their right hand to her in a very human greeting. She shook their hands in turn and looked up into their faces to see a hint of smiles forming on their reptilian features.

“Pardon us once again, where are our manners, we are Kol’Reth and Ko’Rema but you might already know us as the twins. Welcome to Mar Saba!”

Too embarrassed to speak, Emma merely nodded.

“Ah Tobok, it has been too long! How are you!” they said as they hugged Tobok warmly.

“It has been an interesting journey. I thank you for your warm greeting,” Tobok replied with just as much feeling.

“We are sorry that you had to undertake such a difficult task and we are just as happy that you have succeeded at it so well.”

“In truth, I was saddened when I received my orders but now I can honestly say I am very happy that I went,” Tobok said as he turned and smiled warmly at Emma. The twins stole a quick glance at one another and smiled.

“It appears that this assignment has been very good for you. Come now, everyone, take your seats. We have much to discuss.”

The others in the room turned and filed into chairs set into stone steps that circled the room. It looked like a small amphitheatre.

“Oh and this must be Shnooby. Well, hello there. How are you doing?” As they said this they extended their hands to Shnooby. To Emma’s surprise, Shnooby did not growl but lowered his ears and allowed himself to be patted on the top of his head.

“A wonderfully astute companion is he not?” the twins said obviously taken with Shnooby. With some effort the twins pulled themselves away from him.

“Where were we now? Oh, yes! Emma, will you please sit next to us?”

Emma, who had suddenly found her voice replied, “Only if Tobok and Shnooby are allowed to sit with us as well?”

The twins looked at her then at each other. They drew in deep breaths and kicked their heads back. When their heads came down to look at her, she expected flames to leap from their open mouths. Needless to say she was pleasantly surprised when laughter not liquid fire came pouring out of them.

“Our frightened little visitor has found her voice! And in a matter that directly affects her,” the twins said as their laughter subsided. “Oh, we like her! You have courage. You stand up for yourself and things that affect you! Very good, very good indeed! Very well, Emma of Earth, we would be honored to have you, Shnooby, and Tobok sit with us.” They turned to leave but Emma was still stunned by their reaction. “Come now, child, you have earned this,” the twins said with smiles on their faces. So, Emma took Tobok’s hand and they followed the twins to their seats.

Zal’Thor suddenly stepped up, “Should not the child stay outside for the duration of the briefing? She is not a member of the Sangha and she is, as I said, only a child.”

It was Tobok who jumped in to answer, “This whole briefing is about her. She has a right to know what is going on regarding her!”

“She is a mere child and cannot possibly understand the details of the …”

“She understands more than you think and her name is Emma, not “child”.”

“Gentlemen, I believe that we invited Emma to sit with us. Shall we proceed?” replied the twins.

Reluctantly Zal’Thor nodded and stalked back to his seat.

When they came to their seats, Emma was again pleasantly surprised that the twins did not sit at the center of this hall but in very ordinary seats on the lowest tier and at the far end. Emma did not want to be a specimen to be gawked at like she was on Earth.

When everyone was seated and the whispers had died away, Zal’Thor stood and walked over to the tables situated in the very center of the hall. The tables had items on them but they were covered by sheets. Zal’Thor stepped to the nearest table and began to speak.

“As you all know, quite some time ago, one of our patrol ships on the far edge of the galaxy intercepted a distress call from an unknown Zellenite research base on the fourth planet of an unremarkable star system located here.”

The room suddenly darkened and a three dimensional representation of space appeared around Zal’Thor. A pin prick of light was flickering of to one side of this map and it quickly grew in size to show the familiar system that Emma had called home.

“The message was garbled but our technicians were able to determine the exact location. When we arrived we found this.” The map zoomed in again to the fourth planet of that system. It kept zooming in until they saw a smoking crater with debris scattered around the area. “There was not much there. An extensive search of the area found no survivors. Our investigative team was able to recover enough material to identify this as a Zellenite research facility. From the looks of what was left of the structures, this facility was there for centuries.”

Zal’Thor uncovered the first table to reveal debris taken from the base he had been talking about.

“During the investigation at the destroyed base, the crew experienced a very strong sensation. They described it as “a wave of shockingly cold water”. It lasted only a few seconds but the crew felt invigorated by it. It was decided that a small contingent would remain on the planet while the ship investigated the source of this phenomenon. After intensive meditation on the residual traces of this “wave”, they traced it to the third planet of the same system.”

The star map shifted position and ended up on a beautiful blue green world.

“As soon as a stable orbit was established around the third planet, the ship encountered this…” The screen shifted to show what looked like a large drop of quicksilver. As they watched, it started to flow and grew a long cone from the side of it. The cone then shot a beam of shimmering purple energy that came straight at them.

“It is a Verossi frigate and appeared to be already damaged. The shields of the ship easily took the blast but before they could retaliate, the US Cruiser Adamant showed up and attacked the frigate at full weapon strength. They took heavy damage and decided not to linger. They left the system with the Adamant in close pursuit. Where the Adamnt came from is not known. When queried later, the captain stated that they were on long range patrol when they too intercepted the message from the Zellenite base.” As Zal’Thor continued with his briefing, Emma couldn’t help but stare at the images flashing before her. The people on that ship killed her parents! She felt a heat start in the middle of her chest and spread out to her extremities. Just then, she felt Tobok gently squeezing her hand. She broke out of her trance and tore her eyes away to look at Tobok. He was looking down at her with concern in his eyes. She squeezed his hand back and gave him a quick smile. She looked back at Zal’Thor who was gesturing at some new images.

“…After deliberating with the Sangha, the crew of the patrol ship established contact with the government of the nation state where the phenomenon occurred. A small diplomatic group was left on this planet while the ship went back and retrieved the investigative crew from the remains of the Zellenite base,” Zal’Thor continued.

“After insuring that the area of the disturbance was secure, the same investigative crew was dispatched and the resultant debris confirmed a Zellenite as well as a Verossi presence. The natives had already started an investigation due to the extensive damage so close to a populated area. Our crew was able to retrieve all of the debris gathered by them, minimizing any possible contamination.”

This was where Zal’Thor’s voice took on an ominous tone. “What was not expected was to find a native child cocooned in organic material at the very epicenter of the disturbance. The natives had assumed that the cocoon was more debris but a third level adept on the investigative crew noticed a disturbance in the debris. He opened the cocoon and discovered the child. She was in a deep coma but otherwise she was undamaged. He also discovered this lying next to her.”

With that the star map faded away and the lights came up. Zal’Thor walked to the center table and removed the covering. Emma gasped. Lying there on the table was the shiny, sparkly ball that the alien had thrown to her before she blacked or should she say “whited” out. It was no longer as shiny or sparkly as she remembered. In fact, it looked very menacing.

“This device is of Zellenite origin but its design is not in the Zellenite database. It also has a nasty temperament.” Zal’Thor picked up a long metallic bar and gently touched the sphere. It erupted into life shooting very thin filaments into the air around it. The filaments were moving as if searching for something to grab onto. After a few moments the filaments withdrew back into the sphere.

“It took the chief healer on the patrol ship two hours to coax the filaments out of the initiate that was foolhardy enough to pick up the device despite warnings from the adept who found the child.”

Emma shuddered. “Those things were inside me?” She was horrified. She pulled the sleeves up on her tunic and looked at her forearms. She could not see any kind of marks at all but she remembered the fire that erupted in her arms and shot throughout her body in a matter of seconds.

As if responding to Emma’s thoughts, Zal’Thor continued, “These filaments left no marks on the initiate but they had traveled throughout his body. Upon further examination, a reservoir was found at the very center of the device. It appears that this device is a very efficient delivery system. Knowing the Zellenite talent for genetic engineering, it was deduced that the original material inside the reservoir was some sort of mutagen although no trace of material was found.”

“Upon hearing the reports from the investigative crew, the Sangha contacted the Zellenites for an explanation. The Zellenites, unsurprisingly, denied that they were conducting any experiments in that corner of the galaxy. The investigation would have stalled there except for a startling discovery. Genetic material discovered near the cocoon was analyzed and found to belong to a Zellenite geneticist, Arch Master Mengellen. As you all well know, Mengellen was brought before the Galactic High Court on charges of crimes against citizens of the United Systems about sixty cycles ago. He was found guilty on all counts but mysteriously vanished from a maximum security facility shortly before his sentence could be carried out. It was thought at the time that he had help from a foreign government, specifically the Verossi, but nothing could be proven.”

“Once all of the facts were put together it was concluded that the great geneticist was working for the Verossi. Although it was determined that the Verossi had destroyed the research base on the fourth planet and had tracked the scientist to the third planet, circumstantial evidence suggested that the scientist had betrayed his masters and was trying to keep his research from them. That would make sense given the desperation evident in his choice of a receptacle for that work,” Zal’Thor said as he turned to stare at Emma.

“All of the physical evidence was gathered up and shipped to the United Systems main research facility and all of the witnesses were debriefed, there still remained the problem of what to do with the comatose child. She showed no outward signs of mutation and, aside from her coma, she was in perfect health. In cooperation with the governmental authorities of the nation state where this occurred, it was decided to take the child to a secret and what we thought to be a secure facility out in the middle of a desert. It was also deemed necessary that a Vanguard representative be assigned to watch the child in case she awoke or otherwise showed signs of the genetic tampering. That agent would have to be of such an appearance that he or she would not frighten the child when and if she awoke and if it was deemed necessary to reveal themselves. That, along with other factors, was why Third Adept Tobok was assigned to that task.” Zal’Thor paused to sneer at Tobok but he merely smiled back calmly.

“Thank you Second Adept Zal’Thor for that summary of all of the basic facts of this event,” said the twins in perfect unison. “We now recognize Third Adept Tobok who will summarize all of the pertinent facts relating to Emma of Earth.” They didn’t say “the child” when referring to her as Zal’Thor had. She was really starting to like these twins.

Tobok gave Emma’s hand a squeeze and got up from his seat. He walked over to the center of the room and started to speak. “Esteemed members of The Sangha, what follows are the events starting from my arrival on Earth approximately one year after the event. The comatose child, whose name is Emma, was in perfect physical health except that she was in a deep coma. I sat and observed her for over a year, watching as the native physicians ran test after test on her but were baffled on why she was still in a coma. I had run my own tests on her at the same time, actually probes of her mind, and felt confident that I could awaken her. I had deduced that the event was not meant for a child of Earth but an adult. In studying her background and her family’s background I had come to the conclusion that this event was aimed at her father and not Emma.”

Emma was surprised to hear this. Tobok had never mentioned that he suspected that her father was the target of this experiment and not her.

“You see, her father had reported a strange incident that occurred to him as a child where he had been abducted by and experimented on by what he called little green men. As you know, these little green men have show up in their news media quite often along with what the humans call “flying saucers”. It is widely known that the Zellenite craft could be considered as flying saucers and their appearance is very close to the little green men descriptions. In looking over Emma’s father’s journal, he reported several other times when he had memory lapses or strange dreams of additional experimentation. Due to Emma’s own account, her father was too far away for Mengellen to administer the mutagen so he chose the closest target, Emma.”

A journal? My father had a journal?

“Knowing this I deduced that her coma was a side effect to a mutagen that was specifically geared to her father. It might have killed someone who was not genetically related to her father. As it was, either due to this or just her age at the time of the event, her mind could not cope with the changes occurring inside her. That was when I decided to try and slowly guide her back to consciousness. I entered her mind…”

“You did not consult the Sangha on this matter, did you?” interrupted Zal’Thor.

“Well, no. I did not. I was sent there to observe Emma but I am also a Vanguard. Does not our charter state that we must help any and all beings in their time of need?”

“That is not the issue here. You did not consult the Sangha on whether the child should be awakened. The true nature of the mutagen was not determined. She could have awoken as a plague carrier or something worse,” Zal’Thor shot back.

“I had been in her mind. I had not seen any evidence of such manipulation. I also felt that she would not make it back with out my help,” Tobok said with conviction.

“Please, both of you! We are not here to argue but to hear Tobok’s report. Zal’Thor, please refrain from any more comments until Tobok has finished,” said the twins. “Tobok, please continue.”

“As I was saying, I slowly led her back to consciousness. True, there were many areas closed off to my probes but I did not get a sense of danger from any one of them. Once she awoke, she initially did not exhibit any obvious signs of abnormal behavior for a human. In fact, the first signs of any abnormality were very subtle. The first manifestation was a passive healing ability. Humans with injuries or maladies would quickly heal when in her presence. This was followed by her sensitivity to the presence of others even when not in her field of view. Her intellect was also growing at a phenomenal rate. I do not know if this is completely due to the alteration or her own abilities, she is a very astute person.” Tobok looked over at Emma and smiled warmly.

“The greatest leap came when she was examined by a foreign speaking physician. Emma was able to, in mere minutes, comprehend and speak a language that she had never heard before. That was when I contacted the Sangha about bringing her here. My concern was confirmed when a Verossi who was masquerading as a human physician attempted to abduct Emma. It was something that happened during the attempted abduction that cemented my resolve to bring Emma here for training. She fought off the Verossi by herself using a powerful form of bio-electricity. She would have destroyed the Verossi if not for my intervention. As you all well know, these abilities are far in advance of almost all Vanguard. I feel that without proper training these abilities will manifest themselves with disastrous results.”

Tobok turned and came back to his seat at Emma’s side.

“Does anyone have any questions so far?” asked the twins.

A strongly built Sabreth stood up, “Tobok, Is she manifesting true Vanguard abilities?”

“It is my opinion that she is,” he replied hesitantly.

It was Zal’Thor who chimed in next, “Then the Zellenites have found a way to create a Vanguard in a fraction of the time it takes to develop the abilities naturally. With such a capability, the Verossi will be able to create a weapon that could negate the advantage that we have over them now. That would tip the balance of power over to their side. This is disastrous!”

The whole chamber erupted in argument. The noise was almost deafening.

“Silence! We must have silence now!” Emma felt rather than heard the twins shouting. It was very effective. The noise level decreased and the members calmed down.

“We still do not know what has happened in its entirety. There is much speculation as to the persons behind this series of events and to their final purpose. We must learn all of the facts before we can forms opinions. Now, one thing that seems obvious is the fact that whatever was going on did not go according to plan. That means that the end results might not be permanent or that there might be something wrong with the experiment. In either case, the most prudent course of action would be to allow Emma time here to train with us. She needs to learn to control whatever abilities have manifested and this will allow us to observe her and see if any new abilities present themselves.”

There were grumblings of dissent from the group and, what looked like to Emma, an equal number of nods in agreement.

“Due to the special circumstances surrounding Emma we cannot admit her as a standard listener. She will need to have a full time speaker assigned to her. That speaker will need to supervise her training and adjust it whenever needed to match her abilities and aptitude. She will be allowed to attend regular training sessions but only under the direct supervision of her speaker,” continued the twins.

It was then that Zal’Thor interrupted, “I believe that we have already discussed that a Level 2 Adept would be the best choice for such an important assignment. We cannot trust this to anyone of lesser rank and ability. Therefore, I humbly offer myself to fill this role. I believe that I am…”

“That is outrageous! You do not know anything about her. You treat her as an object not a person. How can you possibly instruct someone when you do not even care for anyone but yourself!” cried a furious Tobok.

“Tobok, my friend, your role in this matter is at an end. Now, when it really matters you must let your betters take over so that there would not be any blunders that would cost the Vanguard dearly. It has already been decided that a Level 2 Adept would handle the child’s training and I seem to need to remind you that you are just a Level 3,” Zal’Thor replied haughtily.

“And I seem to need to remind you that her name is not “child’ but Emma!” It was then that Tobok felt a reassuring hand on his arm. It was one of the twins. “Calm yourself, Tobok. We must also consider the listener in this matter. She will need to feel comfortable with her speaker to be able to learn effectively. Emma, who would you want to be your speaker?” the twins asked her.

Emma did not hesitate in the slightest, “I want Tobok. If it wasn’t for him I would either still be in that coma or I would be dead. I have learned so much from him already.”

“The child has obviously formed an attachment to Tobok and he with her. Objectivity is needed in this child’s training. Without it she will end up…”

“Devoid of the emotional stability that only a loving family can provide. There is so much more to being a Vanguard than meditation and intensive training.” The twins paused and stared at Tobok. When they turned back to Emma there were smiles on their reptilian faces. “That they have formed an attachment is clear. Whether this attachment will help in her training to control her abilities remains to be seen. Tobok, as you have seen some have argued that objectivity is needed in Emma’s training. It is our feeling from what we have seen and heard that you would not be able to be objective regarding her.” Emma saw that Zal’Thor was smiling triumphantly and she suddenly felt a cold hard mass form in the pit of her stomach. “On the other hand, we have never had a listener quite like Emma here at the academy. The normal training methods just do not apply to her. Her training will require someone who is in tune with her personality and capabilities. There is no one here who knows her better than you. Therefore, we have decided that you will be her speaker.”

“We have already discussed that only a Level 2 Adept should train the child!” replied Zal’Thor hotly, not looking quite so smug as before.

“We know what was agreed to. Tobok, come and stand before us.” Tobok nervously walked up to where the twins were seated. “We have given this much thought. Many things that you have done on this mission could be deemed as beyond you current level, the mind probing and eventual revival of Emma for one. You have also shown an autonomy that yielded positive results on several occasions. It is these factors along with your previous performance and in recognition of such an unusually long and successful assignment that allow us to elevate you to Second Level Adept. Congratulations Second Level Adept Tobok!”

Cheers erupted from around the hall with one notable exception. The group clustered around Zal’Thor were quiet, their faces solemn.

“Congratulations Tobok!” Emma told him joyfully.

Even Shnooby got into the act by jumping up and licking every square inch of his face. Tobok was very gracious about it. Emma thought better of it than to tell Tobok that Shnooby had just finished licking his rear end. Some things are best not known.

“Therefore, per our previous discussions of the requirements for this new mission, we can now officially assign Second Level Adept Tobok to be Emma of Earth’s speaker.”

That cold mass in her stomach instantly dissolved and Emma jumped up to give Tobok a big hug. “I guess my request to be your speaker has been approved,” he said with a big smile on his face.

“Thank you all for participating in this very important assembly. I must remind all of you that what has transpired here must remain here. Any breach of this trust will mean your removal from the Sangha.”

With that statement from the twins, everyone stood up and filed out of the hall. Zal’Thor and his entourage were the last to leave. They stopped and as one turned back to glare at Emma. They then turned away and left without a word.

Chapter 13 – The Twins

“Now that everyone has left we must sit down and let Emma know what she can expect here. We are sure that Tobok has told you some of what goes on here but we are pretty sure that you still have some questions. Are we correct?” asked the twins.

“Yes, I guess that I do,” Emma replied shakily.

“Please, do not be afraid. We are all friends here and friends help each other out. Come, let us go someplace where we can talk comfortably,” replied the twins.

They turned and walked to a set of smaller doors at the far end of the hall. Emma, Tobok, and Shnooby followed them through those doors and into a room that Emma could only describe as warm and cozy. There were two things that caught her eye when she entered, one was an immense fire place that, like everything else here seemed to have grown out of the wall. The other thing was the immense glass wall that looked out onto the rest of the mountain range and valley below. Emma couldn’t keep her mouth closed. It seemed to her that gaping had become her new hobby.

“Come, let us sit by the fire,” the twins said after removing their robes. They were still struggling with some other piece of clothing when suddenly enormous wings sprang from their backs. “Ahhh! Oh how we hate those harnesses but not everyone is comfortable talking to someone with wings.” They stretched their wings out to their fullest and let them come back into their natural resting positions. They walked over by the fireplace and sat down on large cushions that were arranged in a semicircle around it.

Emma saw that Tobok had also removed his robe. If wings were going to pop from his back, Emma knew for sure that she would faint. Fortunately, she did not have to faint. Tobok motioned for Emma to come over and sit in one of the cushions. She walked over to a particularly beautiful maroon cushion and slowly sat down. As she sat she noticed that it was just like the seat on Tobok’s shuttle. The cushion easily conformed to Emma as she finally let it take her full weight. Shnooby seemed content to lay down at her feet resting his head on his front paws.

“Before we begin we must say how happy we are to see such improvement in you, Tobok. It seems that this assignment was very good for you,” they said smiling warmly at him.

Tobok looked up at them with a slight grin and said, “Some would have seen this assignment as not worthy of their time. They would have also seen it as an opportunity to rid themselves of a potential rival.”

“We are not blind to Zal’Thor’s ambitions. His like would have easily seen this as a waste of time but we saw things differently. Our decision to send you encompassed many levels only one of which we see here and now.”

“I cannot lie, when I was first sent to Earth I was angry and maybe a little bitter. I guess I was thinking too much of myself and not of others but the moment I saw Emma lying in that bed I was deeply ashamed of myself. The more I learned of her situation the more my shame deepened. How could I possibly have strayed so far from the path?” Tobok then turned to Emma, “I apologize to you for that. I was never able to bring myself to tell you before. Please forgive me.”

Emma looked at him fondly but then she remembered something she heard in the hall, “Now that we’re talking about things you couldn’t tell me, why didn’t you tell me that my father had a journal? What else haven’t you told me?”

To this the twins replied, “Tobok was under strict orders not to reveal too much information to you during his time with you on Earth. It seems that he bent that rule as well as others but he did manage to keep the overall intent of that rule. We did not know what had happened to you or why or even if anything would come of it. Tobok’s assignment was to just observe, not to interfere. He was not even allowed to reveal himself to you at all. This specific rule is very important because we do not want to adversely affect any developing civilizations. There have been too many disasters already that have claimed many civilizations just because they knew of the existence of a more advanced race.”

Now it was Tobok’s turn to speak, “I am deeply sorry Emma but I would like to think that I could make up for some of it with this.” Tobok fumbled around in one of the pockets in his tunic and pulled out a long, intricately cut crystal. “This is the key that fits all of the trunks that have been delivered to your room. Inside you will find all of your parents things that I felt you would want to have with you here on Vihara.”

Emma was dumbstruck! “You brought some of my parent’s things here for me? Where did you find room to put them?”

“Only half of the trunks that I brought had my things in them. The other half is all yours.”

“Why didn’t you give them to me before?” Emma answered, anger raising the pitch of her voice.

“You remember what happened to Dr. Samuels do you not? I did not know what exposing you to your parents’ things would have done to you. I felt that the time to give you those things was here at Mar Saba where there would be more people to help if you reacted badly to them.”

Emma visibly calmed and when she next spoke it was with a calm, even toned voice, “Yeah, I could just see me melting a whole wing of that base if I saw a picture of my parents playing with me, knowing that I will never see them again.”

“Do you want this key now or should I keep it for you?” asked Tobok.

Emma looked at the key as it glistened magically in the firelight. “You keep it for now. When I get a little more control over the things that I can do I will ask you for that key.”

Tobok took the key and slipped it back into the pocket from which he had taken it. He smiled at her and said, “You are far wiser than your years. I do not think I would have been able to make that choice myself.”

“It takes a great amount of strength to put others before one’s own interests. It appears to us that your stay with us will not only teach you something but you will be able to teach us something as well,” replied the twins.

“Very well, now that we have settled all open issues it is time for some refreshment.” As if on cue, two Sabreth initiates came into the room bearing trays on which were four glasses and one bowl. Two of the four glasses held a deep amber colored liquid, one was a light green while the last one was a deep orange color. The bowl was filled to the top with water. The initiates put the trays on a long table that ran along the entire wall opposite the fireplace and then left.

The twins got to their feet and retrieved the items from the trays. One of the twins gave Emma the orange glass and put the bowl down next to a now alert Shnooby. The other one gave Tobok the green glass. The twins each took a glass containing the amber colored liquid. When they resumed their seats they saw that no one was drinking.

“Go ahead, we believe that you will like your drinks.” They then simultaneously took long, deep drinks from their own glasses. Emma sniffed hers and swore that she smelled oranges. She took a tentative sip and was surprised that it was the best orange juice she had ever had. She looked down and saw that Shnooby too was testing the water in his bowl. Finding it acceptable, he quickly drained the bowl of every last drop.

“Tenesian Ale! Oh it has been a long time, thank you!” said Tobok smacking his lips.

By the time they had finished their drinks the sun had started to set. The shadows that the mountain cast grew longer and the sky took on a beautiful deep blue color while the mountain range glowed a fiery red gold. The room had also darkened but the firelight gave everything a warm glow and enough light to see comfortably.

“Now then, Emma, we need to let you know what to expect here at Mar Saba. We assume that Tobok has told you many things already but for completeness we will start with the knowledge that you nothing of Mar Saba and what we do here.”

They collected their thoughts and continued, “First off this facility’s main function is to train people to become Vanguard. The Vanguard are a branch of the government of The United Systems of Arathos. The United Systems are a collection of various star systems that have banded together for the purposes of trade and security. There are other groups in our galaxy whose interests sometimes clash with our interests. One of these interests is expansion of territory. Wars, both major and minor, have been waged due to these clashes. Yes, we are not advanced enough yet to be able to settle all of our difference without war. It was during one of these border wars that the Vanguard were born.” The twins paused to once again collect their thoughts.

“You see, anyone can be a Vanguard. Every single being that we have encountered through the years has the potential to become a Vanguard. The down side is that it takes many, many years of study and meditation. The source of a Vanguard’s power is this: a very deep empathy with all living beings. Imagine a huge tree with many leaves on it. Each living thing can be represented by one leaf. The leaves are connected to a small branch. That branch is connected to the larger branches and those in turn are connected to the trunk of the tree. Now, take one branch only and imagine all of the leaves on that branch. Each leaf is attached to that branch therefore you could say that each leaf is connected to each other leaf on that branch. If all of those leaves are connected to each other on the one branch and the branch is connected to others, you can say that all of the leaves on the tree are connected to one another. The Vanguard make use of the collective power of all living things. We connect to that power by dropping all of our defenses and opening ourselves up to our connection to the branch. That branch has the life force of all of the lives connected to it coursing through it. We are able to borrow some of it at times of need to help us do what we need to do to protect all life. Do you understand us so far?”

Emma was completely wrapped up in their explanation that it took her a moment to respond. “Yes, I think I understand most of it. So you are saying that sometimes you use more of this life force than any normal person would have at one time. Aren’t you hurting some other leaf on this branch when you dip into this power?”

“A very good question, Emma, the answer is no. The size of the branch is so large and it encompasses a vast amount of living beings that any borrowing we do does not affect any one person in a bad way. The average person usually only uses a very small portion of this energy in normal situations. There have been reports of people suddenly having enormous strength when a loved one is in danger. Other reports have had people developing extreme resistance to fire or cold. What we have found that each event is the result of a very stressful situation but it does not happen all of the time, in fact it is very rare. What we have done, in strengthening our connection to the branch, we have been able to call upon these abilities at will. It is a very slow process and the abilities usually develop in a predictable manner. That is why you are so unique. Someone displaying your abilities would be the equivalent of a seventy five year old human and that is after spending virtually all of those years in intensive study and meditation. Now you know why you are so unique. Someone has been able to produce, in a relatively short time, a full fledged Vanguard Adept.”

Emma was trying to understand why this was such a bad thing. If everyone could do what she does, wouldn’t it be a much better world, err galaxy?

“I can see from the confusion on your face that you do not understand why this is not a good thing,” Tobok said after studying her face closely. “You see, to get this much power so fast without working for it, earning it, does not instill the great amount of responsibility that this person would need not to abuse that power. It is almost like when an individual who has not had wealth all of their lives suddenly gets an enormous amount of wealth all at once. They did not have to work for that wealth so they do not appreciate it and respect it. They usually end up squandering that wealth in a short amount of time and end up in a worse state than they started out.”

Emma still did not understand what they were trying to say and it seemed that they knew it.

“I believe that this concept will be the most important thing that we hope you will learn here. Now where were we? Ah, yes someone has possibly created a full fledged Vanguard Adept. This ability would enable someone to build an army of Vanguard to do their bidding. They would have all of our abilities but none of our values,” continued the twins.

“Does that mean that you are an army for this government of yours?” asked Emma.

Of all the reactions that Emma expected she had not expected the one she got, both the twins and Tobok chuckled or did what passed for it.

“Forgive us Emma, but your question results in a complicated answer and that answer is no and yes,” replied Tobok.

Emma hoped her blank look would invite someone to explain that answer, the twins did not disappoint her.

“As you have seen, the Vanguard posses many unique abilities that would make us very efficient soldiers except for one thing. Our abilities come from an extreme empathy for all life. That empathy has many benefits but also some disadvantages. We feel everything others feel even their deaths. It is a terrible thing to experience the death of another. It is not something I would wish on my worst enemy.” They paused for a moment as if remembering something but quickly snapped out of it. “Because it is so traumatic, we are incapacitated by it. Thus, the very nature of our abilities makes us poor soldiers. We become helpless when death is near us and if we try to kill, that very intent robs us of the necessary state of mind to use our abilities.”

“You answered no and yes. What is the yes part?” asked a clearly interested Emma.

“Very good! You were right Tobok, she is quick! The yes part comes into play with a group that the United Systems has been at odds with ever since we made contact with them. You have already met them, I believe.”

“Dr. Samuels!” replied Emma, rage building inside her.

“Yes, Dr. Samuels. He is a member of the Verossi. They are a race of people who are masters of technology. Their expertise allowed them to construct immense cities that eventually covered their whole planet. Eventually, the waste generated by their society began to have a toll on their overall health so they once again turned to their formidable technology and found a way to transfer their consciousnesses to artificial bodies. This step is what separated them from the branch of life that we have already discussed. They were now a completely artificial life form able to exist in the harshest of environments. Only a small percentage of their race survived this process and the complications that arose afterwards. Because of this they needed to build up their ranks. Their answer was to convert the peoples that they had conquered into cyborgs. They are more machine than alive and they fill the role of soldier perfectly. The encounters they have had with the United Systems forces usually ended badly for the US. Remember, they are masters of technology. They are so far advanced than anyone else that any military encounter with them ends badly for their enemies. That is where we come in.” The twins looked over at Tobok to continue.

“The Verossi are completely dependent on their technology. If they come up against an alien technology that has a stronger weapon or better shielding they have the ability to quickly analyze and implement a response that ends up negating their enemy’s advantage. They can even break into computer systems and tell them to drop those shields or power down that weapon. The Vanguard, on the other hand, use organic technology, for lack of a better term. You have seen the living ships we employ. We do have artificial technology on board but at a minimum. The bio-electric fields that the living ships can generate are able to take the shape of a weapon or shielding and they are the equal if not greater than any Verossi equivalent that we have come across. Also, we do not employ artificial technology weapons for personal use. As you will see, we rely more on simple bladed weapons and other low tech alternatives that cannot be turned off or forced to overload when we encounter them face to face. The lethality of these weapons comes from how we use them. From the Verossi point of view, we are an enemy that is truly on an equal footing with them. Our name, Vanguard, describes how we are deployed in combat with them. We are sent in first to take their full attention. Once they are engaged with us, the rest of the US forces can come in and use their weapons to turn the tide of these encounters in the US’s favor. That is why the answer to your question was no and yes. Against other life we are pretty much useless as soldiers. Our role there is more as healers. Against the Verossi, we are the front line soldier and that is also why what happened to you concerns us very much.”

“You mean that if the Verossi make Vanguard of their own they would also be able to do what you do. Then they would be able to find ways to get around what you do and to defeat you,” replied Emma, understanding dawning on her face.

“You are correct, Emma,” replied the twins. “Yes, that is what all of the current evidence is pointing to. That is why it was very important to get you here. That and also to get you started on learning to control your new abilities.”

“And to make it easier to observe me, right?” asked Emma knowing she will not like the answer.

“Admittedly, yes. We will not lie to you, we wanted you here as well to observe what other abilities you might develop and to help you cope with those abilities. There are also the abduction attempts. Someone wants you quite badly,” the twins replied gravely.

“Why would they want me?” asked a bewildered Emma.

“From all of the evidence we have been able to gather it looks like whoever destroyed the lab and chased the geneticist to Earth did not get what they were looking for and the thing that they are looking for is in you.”

“Why did you keep saying that you don’t know who did this? I told you it was those Verossi people. I saw them!” Emma replied hotly.

“One very important thing you must learn here, Emma, is not to jump to conclusions. We do not have all of the pieces to this puzzle. The current theory that the Verossi are behind this is just the most plausible at this time.”

“You had almost seven years to find out and you’re saying that you don’t know who did this for sure?” Emma asked.

“Admittedly the ones behind this are very good at concealing themselves but we feel that the trail is heating up once more. Do not worry Emma we will get to the bottom of this. Enough of this talk for now, you must be tired from your long day. Let us get to your orientation.” The twins paused again to collect their thoughts. “This academy was started to train individuals in the way of the Vanguard. It is a very long process and only a small percentage of those who begin that training go on to achieve the rank of Adept. Because of the commitment required we also provide more practical training in all aspects of modern life. It is said that Vanguard training is among the best in the known galaxy. We like to think that anyone spending time at this facility will be better prepared for a successful life in the United Systems. Our students are called listeners and the instructors are called speakers. All brand new listeners start off learning how to discipline their minds. This provides a good basis for all of the more intensive training to follow. Physical activity is also introduced to provide a balance and is important in future training. Advancement is not dependent on age but on ability. Each training segment has a set of tasks that need to be completed before you advance. Therefore, the more that you apply yourself the faster you will advance. Do you understand us so far?” asked the twins.

“Yes I do,” replied Emma not wanting to show any sign of the growing fear in the pit of her stomach.

“We understand that this is quite a lot to absorb all at once but I assure you it is much more pleasant than it sounds. Now, housing is divided by rank. This is done to provide incentive to the listener to advance. Due to your special nature and the need for security, your quarters are on level fifty. You will be sharing your quarters with Tobok. This will increase the efficiency of your training since questions can be answered at any time of day. We say here that a speaker and their listener should make the climb together. In your case you will epitomize that statement. Do you have any questions?” asked the twins.

Emma could not suppress a yawn, “Oh please forgive me. No, I don’t.”

“Then I think we can end our meeting right now.” The twins got up out of their chairs quickly followed by Tobok and Emma. At the first sign of movement Shnooby was up on his feet and completely alert.

“Oh, we almost forgot to tell you. Shortly after Tobok left on this assignment our academy saw a substantial influx of some rather peculiar listeners – The Hunzack.” If Tobok had been feeling any fatigue this statement quickly burned it out of his system.

“What’s wrong?” Emma asked him.

“As I told you the Hunzack are a hunting people, very proud and very arrogant. They had never mingled with any other of the races in the US except for reasons of commerce and then only in small numbers.” The next question from Tobok was aimed at the twins, “How many have enrolled?”

“The official count is five hundred and all from the best families,” replied the twins quickly.

“Why can’t the Hunzack join your academy?” asked Emma still trying to understand the seriousness of the situation.

“It is not that they cannot. Everyone is welcome. It is just that they have openly criticized the Vanguard in the past. Their beliefs are actually very much in line with the Vanguard except that we differ on one major issue, they feel that the natural world is a resource to be dominated and controlled, while we feel it should be nurtured and allowed to proceed on its own course guided by its own natural will. To have so many join our academy at one time and from the best families is very strange indeed. You do understand the immediate implications of this do you not, Tobok?”

Tobok looked down at Shnooby. “Yes, it is something I had not foreseen.”

Emma caught Tobok staring at Shnooby and asked, “Why are you looking at Shnooby like that?”

“Well, Shnooby is a Venok, albeit a genetically altered one. As I told you they are the prized hunting pets of the Hunzack. No one but a Hunzack can own one or even be seen with one. I think that you need to consider having Shnooby stay with the other animals here. We will make him very comfortable and you could see him everyday.”

“I will not be separated from him. He needs me and I need him. I can’t explain it but I will not be separated from him.” Shnooby growled deeply as if agreeing with Emma’s assertion.

“Emma, we do not know what the Hunzack listeners will do when they see you with one of their prized pets. They are a very passionate people.”

“Then I guess they are not very good listeners and they have not learned anything in the time they have been here,” replied Emma sharply.

Tobok and the twins exchanged glances.

“Very good, Emma, we will have to watch what we say around you from now on!” laughed the twins. “Your loyalty to Shnooby and your bravery is most commendable. Very well, we will not separate you from your beloved friend. We have this feeling that you will work out a peaceful solution to this. Now, go on, get some rest. The new term begins in three days. The listeners who have left to visit their families are due back starting tomorrow. It has been a pleasure to finally meet you Emma of Earth and you too Shnooby! It is very good to have you back Tobok! Come see us tomorrow. We wish to discuss Emma’s course of study. Good night to you all!”

“Good night,” Emma and Tobok replied in unison.

With that the twins lead them to the doors leading into the great hall. They left and made their way out through the main entrance.

Once outside of the hall, Emma looked back and couldn’t help but smile.

“Why are you smiling?” asked Tobok.

“I like them. They’re weird but I like them,” she said.

“I think they like you too. As long as I can remember they have never talked as much or with such openness with a brand new listener. There is just something about you Emma, something….familiar.”

Chapter 14 – Onalen

Emma woke up the next morning feeling like she had never felt before, completely and utterly refreshed! Her room was much bigger than she expected. It was nothing like her room on Earth. She did not feel like anyone was watching her. It felt very warm and inviting. The golden sunlight that bathed her now came from a wide window that took up half of the outside wall of her room. A sliding door was butted up next to the window that led out onto a terrace. She noticed that the crystals she had seen yesterday permeated the whole mountain. All of the walls in her room were laced with them.

She got out of bed and stretched lazily. She opened the sliding door and instantly felt a very cool but refreshing breeze. There was a railing around the outside that came up to her chest. She took a deep breath. It was cool and crisp and smelled of life, there was no other way to describe it

The terrace looked down into the valley where they had landed yesterday. She was awestruck by the view. Last night there was not much to see but now, in the light of day, it was breathtaking. The orchards and gardens extended much farther than Emma thought. Beyond them was a forest so dense with trees that it looked like a huge solid object. She had never experienced anything like this in her whole life! “Maybe it won’t be so bad here after all,” she thought to herself.

As she turned around to go back inside, Emma thought about the music in the Core and decided to contribute to today’s song. She left the sliding door a third of the way open and wondered how the melody had changed.

Shnooby was still curled up and asleep on a mat made of the same material as her bed. She guessed that with everything that had happened to him in the last few days it had taken a lot out of him. He looked like a big cuddly puppy. In fact he was just a puppy. Her heart went out to him yet again and the kinship she felt with him grew stronger. They were both puppies that someone decided to experiment on.

The trunks that Tobok had talked about containing her parents’ belongings stood neatly stacked against the opposite wall. She felt a pang of regret for not having taken the key from Tobok last night but all she had to do to dispel it was think of what she did to Dr. Samuels. She shuddered. “Is that going to haunt me for the rest of my life?” she thought.

She decided to let Shnooby sleep. She went to the bathing room and took a long, luxurious bath. She saw something peculiar on the far side of the room and was surprised to see what looked like a shower stall meant for a very small person. She finished her bath and decided to dress in the robes of a listener, might as well blend in as much as possible.

As she left the bathing room, she met Shnooby who was walking very slowly. Whoa, he needs to go do his business! How is she going to get him outside in time, they are on the fiftieth level! She then thought of the small shower stall and quickly led Shnooby there. It worked like a charm. He did all of his business and she was able to wash it away. It was almost like someone had put it in especially for Shnooby. This reminded her of Onus. She hoped that he was alright. It still amazed her how open and friendly he was with a complete stranger. Too bad he was the exception and not the rule.

When Shnooby had finished, they both went to look for Tobok. Their apartment was big. She went into a living room area that had a fireplace and cushions much like the ones in the room where they had talked with the twins last night. There was also a kitchen area with some strange pieces of equipment set into the walls. This led into the other half of the apartment where Tobok’s room was. She cleared her throat, “Tobok? Tobok, are you awake?” No response. She slowly walked in and saw that his bed looked like it was not even slept in. It was then that she saw the door to his terrace open. She walked up to the door and looked out. There was Tobok sitting cross legged on a decorative mat, deep in meditation. He was dressed in his Vanguard tunic and leggings.

Emma didn’t want to disturb him so she attempted to leave quietly.

“Good morning! You are finally awake,” he said now staring directly at her.

“Good morning. Did you sleep at all last night?” she asked motioning to his bed.

“I slept very well it is just that I usually wake up early to do some meditation before the start of the day.” He then jumped to his feet and bowed before her. “Speaker Tobok is ready to start your instruction.”

“Now? Can’t we do it after breakfast?” she asked hoping that he was just joking.

“Now. This is one of the best times to meditate and it helps put you in the right frame of mind for the rest of the day. I have procured a Tenesian made meditation mat for you.” He reached for a roll that was laying next to his mat. He unrolled it and placed it directly in front of his.

“Now, if you would please sit down in the manner that you saw me sitting, we can begin.”

Emma reluctantly sat down facing Tobok who was already in position.

“Now, close your eyes and breathe. Try to empty your mind of everything. A tool to help with this is counting your breaths. Breathe in through your nose, breathe out through your mouth. Good! Count your breaths now! Feel how the air goes into your nose and fills your lungs then feel how it comes back up and out of your mouth.”

It went on like this for a couple of hours. It seemed like years to her. Finally, mercifully, Tobok announced an end to the session. Her stomach was growling and Shnooby’s was positively deafening.

They went into the kitchen area and Tobok started running the equipment. He also pulled out one of the espresso machines he had brought from Earth. As Tobok prepared his precious brew, he gave Emma a small bag of the food Shnooby ate on the living ship. His bowls were placed right next to the counter where she sat. Whoever brought all of their stuff to the apartment had thought of everything.

Emma had something that looked and tasted like pancakes and a glass of the orange juice tasting liquid. Tobok had his usual bowl of grains and at least two lattes.

After they cleaned up Tobok announced, “Now, let me properly show you my beloved home but first I need to give you this!” Tobok handed her a pin with a symbol on it that she did not recognize. “This is your translator. I have disabled it but it still looks like it is working. You must wear this at all times so as not to arouse suspicion.”

Emma happily accepted it but wondered how to put it on.

“Oh, yes, just push it onto your tunic and it will stay there. Listeners usually wear it on the center of their chests.”

Emma quickly put it on. She knew that she would stand out having Shnooby along but any other help she could get to appear normal here was enthusiastically accepted.

It was almost mid-day by the time they made it out and there were many more people out and about than yesterday. They made their way to the Core and moved to the lower levels where all of the shops and eateries were located. The melody was more complex probably due to the greater number of people about. They met more of Tobok’s friends and stopped to eat at a place that had the best tasting fruit she had ever had. They eventually made it down to the entrance hall and found a spot overlooking the tunnel that lead to the Core.

The twins were right, the flow of people into the mountain was steady. It still surprised her how many different species belonged to this Union. Tobok would point out some of the more exotic groups and explain a little about them. They had been at it for an hour or so when they heard a tiny voice from behind them say, “Greetings newly elevated 2^nd Level Adept!” They both looked back but did not see anyone. When they looked down they were surprised to see one of the mouse people, The Zek’Drath, standing right behind Tobok. It appeared that Tobok knew her.

“Onalen! How wonderful! When did you come in?” Tobok said as he bent down to hug her.

“Oh we arrived late last night. My father sends his love,” replied Onalen. She then looked over at Emma and Shnooby. “This must be Emma and Shnooby. I am very pleased to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too – from both of us,” replied Emma. “Are all of your people so warm and kind?”

“I do not know. Do all humans walk around with Venoks for pets that they saved from madness?” she replied with a smile on her face.

Emma was shocked, “How did you know that? Who told you?”

Tobok and Onalen laughed. “Onalen is the daughter of Onus. He must have told her,” replied Tobok.

“He sure did! We have no secrets in our family but we do know how to keep them.”

“Were you looking for us?” asked Tobok.

“Yes, my father told me how much you like to come here and watch everyone come back from break so that is how I found you. He asked me to come by and see if Emma needed anything like maybe a friend?”

“Your father is amazing! He was the only other person besides Tobok who was kind to me and he is trying to look out for me even here. How is he?” asked Emma.

“OK, he was assigned to another bothra heading to the capital system. He won’t be back until the end of this term,” she replied sadly.

“I’m sorry to hear that, it would have been great to see him sooner!”

“Since it looks like both of you have hit it off well would you be able to stay with Emma until I get back, Onalen?” asked Tobok. “You see I have an appointment with the twins about Emma’s course of study. I will not be very long.”

“That would be great! I will let her know which ones are nice and not so nice. We can also talk about some gossip I heard about some of them as well. Do not worry Tobok, I will catch her up on all the important stuff in no time!” replied Onalen cheerfully.

Tobok paused, “That is what I am afraid of.”

“Oh go on, we will be fine, right?” Onalen asked Emma.

“Ah, yeah, I think so,” replied Emma hesitantly.

“Alright, just stay out of trouble,” said Tobok. He then turned around in a swirl of robes and was gone.

“He is a great guy! He and my dad have been friends ever since they came here,” Onalen said. “Now I am sure that Tobok has told you all the boring stuff about the different groups you have seen coming through here. My job is to tell you all of the really juicy stuff about them.”

Onalen spent the next hour or so pointing out and talking about many of the people passing beneath them. This one is from a respected family and that one just made it in because their father works for the president. On and on she went. Emma found it fascinating and had to admit that she was having a good time. It was probably the most fun she has had since, well, before all this happened to her.

“Uh oh! Here they come! Quick, we have to hide!” Onalen said with some panic in her voice.

“Why? What’s wrong?” asked a confused Emma.

“The Hunzack have arrived,” she said pointing to the outer doors.

Sure enough, Emma saw a large group of tall blonde haired people come striding through the entrance. They looked almost exactly like the ones who had experimented on Shnooby. The low growl at her feet told Emma that Shnooby had seen them too.

There were young ones and older ones. The younger ones had shorter hair and not nearly as many braids as the older ones. The older ones had one other thing that the younger ones didn’t have, Venoks. These Venoks looked a little different than Shnooby, though. They were full grown and fierce looking and they had large multi colored collars around their well groomed necks. From the look of them they definitely took a lot of pride in these animals.

“Do not let them see Shnooby! If they see us….” Too late, she heard a shout from the group and when she looked down, one of the older ones was pointing at them. A small group broke away from the main one and disappeared to the right. They reappeared a moment later on the same balcony as them. As the twins and Tobok had predicted, they were not happy.

“Whodst dise sher Venok begoks to?” yelled the leader of this smaller group. He was tall and quite muscular. Emma noticed that they were not wearing the basic listener robes but a variation of it. His Venok growled menacingly at Shnooby and Shnooby returned it in kind.

“Who does that Venok begoks to?” he yelled again

.

“He is my friend if that is what you are asking,” replied Emma.

The leader gave her a confused look and then started to laugh. They all laughed except for one Hunzack at the back of the group.

“What have we here now? Looks like a rodent and a Hunzack wannabe. Didn’t anyone tell you, wannabe, that only a Hunzack can have a Venok “friend”?” he asked mockingly. “Since it is forbidden for any Hunzack to sell or give away a Venok, you must have stolen it. Am I right, wannabe?” he asked with mockery giving way to menace.

Emma had about enough from this brute. “I will have you know that I saved this Venok from insanity and possible death after some of your own kind had done all kinds of terrible things to him!”

“Do not talk of things you do not understand, wannabe! A Venok that cannot pass the training regimen set up for it must be culled so as not to weaken the overall gene pool. Stand aside and I will cull this beast myself!” He pulled a long knife from the inside of his robes and advanced on Shnooby. Emma pushed a snarling Shnooby behind her, “Don’t you dare take another step toward him! I will not let you harm him!” Emma said injecting all of the menace she could into her voice.

“How dare you stand in my way! This matter does not concern you, wannabe!” He then made to push Emma out of the way. Emma felt a familiar sensation and, without thinking, she pushed him – hard. She saw him fly back into his group with such force that the brute knocked down several of his friends before he himself ended up on the ground.

“Vendetta! I call Vendetta!” he cried from his prone position. His Venok, sensing his master’s wishes, lunged for Shnooby but Shnooby was no longer there. The Venok gave out a yelp and fell backwards onto his master, claw marks visible on his chest. The Venok was not dead but could not move. When Emma looked back she saw Shnooby standing where he was before. She did catch a glimpse of his secondary claws retracting into his right front paw.

The smaller group was joined by the rest as they rushed to see what had happened. A much older Hunzack walked to the front of the group and surveyed the damage.

“What has happened here! How dare you attack one of my own?” he shouted at Emma.

“He attacked first. He wanted to hurt Shnooby and I did not let him,” she told the older man. It was then that he saw Shnooby.

“Father, she is in possession of a Venok cur! I was just doing my duty to preserve the strength of the species,” said the brute as he got to his feet. The older man looked at the Venok that had attacked Shnooby. “It appears that this cur is not as weak as you thought. Who are you and how did you come into possession of this Venok?” he asked Emma.

“My name is Emma. I am from a planet called Earth. I met Shnooby after some of your own people had done horrible things to him. Their experimentation nearly killed him. It did drive him mad. I helped him get better,” she replied evenly.

The older man showed surprise at the mention of experimentation. What he said next not only surprised her but also the group of Hunzack standing around them.

“Then we owe you a debt of gratitude. Any genetic manipulation of Venoks is strictly prohibited. Selective breeding or any other natural refinement to the breed – yes, but artificial manipulation is an abomination. I trust that these experimenters have been dealt with?”

“They are dead. They were killed by the other one before it tore itself apart,” she replied.

“Good, very good. We cannot have the ones responsible running around loose. You have courage and you seem to handle yourself well. I do not know where this Earth of yours is but our two peoples might be related in some way. Come see me later on, I have many questions about what you know of this experimentation. I believe we need to get all of the facts before a course of action can be implemented. We have much to talk about, you and I. Bring the Venok as well, it is his fate that we are to determine is it not?”

“But father, if the Venok was tampered with it is even more important that we prevent it from contaminating the gene pool! We at least need to confiscate it to……..”

“Are you questioning me? Who does not know his place? Who is the ungrateful cur?!” He glared at the brute. The brute stopped his protests. “I apologize father. It will not happen again.” He picked up his knife and put it back under his robes. He then went over to tend to his Venok.

The older man looked back at Emma, “My name is Herzon. That cur of a son is Henior. Forgive his outburst, we take pride in the fact that we think before we act. Unfortunately, in our zeal we sometimes act without thinking.” He then turned and gave the rest of the group an elaborate hand gesture. Three other Hunzack rushed up and helped Henior carry his Venok away. The rest followed without a word. The one that was in the back of the original group and did not laugh when she was being mocked turned back to her and smiled. He then rushed to catch up with the rest of his group. Herzon was staring at Shnooby and when he saw that Emma was looking at him, gave her a brief bow, turned and left as well.

“Wow!, I cannot believe what I just heard! That was the ranking member of the Hunzack here at Mar Saba and he invited you to visit him?” asked a dumbstruck Onalen.

“It sounded more like a direct order than an invitation to me,” Emma replied carefully.

She was still staring in the direction that the Hunzack had gone when she heard a familiar voice behind her, “Sorry for the delay. What did I miss?”

“You are not going to believe it Tobok,” replied Onalen.

Chapter 15 – The Hunzack

“She did what?” asked Tobok for the second time.

“That Hunzack was twice her size and she threw him like a rag doll,” Onalen repeated. “And then the Hunzack leader asked her to visit him!”

“Emma, what did he say to you?” asked a visibly worried Tobok.

“He said that he wanted to get all of the fact about what I know about Shnooby. He also wanted me to bring Shnooby. He said his fate needs to be determined.”

“I do not like this. They are a very proud people and they would not let grievances like this go so easily. Did he mention a time for this visit?”

“No, just to come see him later,” replied Emma. “I am not going to let them take or hurt Shnooby in any way. I don’t care how many of them there are or what they can do!”

“Please, calm yourself. We will go there together. I am very curious to find out what he really wants from your visit,” Tobok said carefully.

“What do you mean by that? He wants to take Shnooby away from me,” Emma replied hotly.

“If he wanted that, he would have already taken him. They are a very stubborn people. No, he wants something and I intend to find out what that is. Now, have you calmed down or do we need to do another meditation session right here and now?” he asked her with a stern look on his furry face.

“No, that’s OK. I think that I am definitely calm enough so we don’t need to meditate right now. By the way, what took you so long?” asked Emma.

“Well, the twins have done a lot of thinking about you, Emma. They have already given me a complete outline of what they expect from your studies. That will now, of course, have to be amended after your new display of physical strength. I take it that you became angry again?”

“Yeah, I couldn’t help it. That bully was going to try and hurt Shnooby! I couldn’t let him do that so I got real angry, felt all tingly and just pushed him as hard as I could and I am not sorry I did it either,” she said defiantly.

“I am not asking for an apology but this new event shows me even more the urgency for you to reign in your emotions, especially your anger. You must keep a low profile, remember? That is why you are dressed the way you are and why you have that device on your chest. How can I explain someone so young doing things only a much older person can do? At least that part of the outline does not need to change,” Tobok said with a hint of frustration in his voice.

“You said that part of the outline needs to change, which one?” asked Emma sheepishly.

“The very first one: you learning emotional control. It seems that the emergence of new abilities as well as the flare ups of existing ones are tied to the amount of stress you experience and how you react to it, except the passive ones of healing and perception. What is really messing me up is that your abilities are not emerging in a predictable manner. One day you can tell where everyone is around you and the next you are,” Tobok looked at Onalen who was listening with rapt attention, “doing other things. Since things are changing faster than we thought we will have to make frequent changes to the outline.”

“Is there any room in that outline for a little fun?” asked Emma.

“All of the fun is in the learning,” replied Tobok with a smile.

“Oh geez! I think your elevation to 2^nd is getting to you,” laughed Onalen.

“Very funny, Onalen. Come it is way past the mid day meal. Are either of you hungry?” asked Tobok.

“Oh yes!” they both replied eagerly.

“Good! I know this place on the 34^th level. They serve a wonderful grain medley!” Both Tobok and Onalen almost drooled with anticipation.

“Do they serve anything that Shnooby and I could eat?” asked Emma carefully.

“I believe that they do. You see, this place has also started serving Hunzack food. We will be able to see how similar your two people are,” he said with a wink.

Emma smiled and turned back to see if Shnooby was behind her when she saw them, a group of people walking in single file. They were covered from top to bottom in dark green robes. Emma couldn’t see what they looked like because they had large hoods on that completely concealed their faces. There was something odd about how they were walking.

“Tobok, who are those people down there?”

Tobok turned to look where she was pointing and he hesitated. Finally as if he decided on what to tell Emma he said, “People from across the US come here. They come for various reasons, chief of which is to study the ways of the Vanguard. Some come here to take a break from the hectic pace of daily life, to recharge their batteries. There are some, though, who come here for reasons which are very personal to them. Because of that they request privacy. If the Vanguard determine that their reasons for coming here will not harm them or anyone else, they are granted that privacy. Those people down there belong to that group. The Vanguard respect their privacy and I trust you will too. Come now, it is time to eat!” Tobok turned and started to walk down the ramp leading to the hall with Onalen at his side. Emma turned back to look at the dark robed people one last time when it finally hit her. They were walking in sync with one another. No, not walking but marching. Marching like………….. soldiers!

The meal was good, really good! Emma was sure that she would have to wait until they got back to their quarters to get a descent meal but, for once, she was glad she was wrong.

“It tasted like chicken! That was amazing!” she said for the third time.

“I guess that you are very similar to the Hunzack. They call this meal “chunar”. It is a game bird from their native planet. Ever since they started coming here in larger numbers many of the food vendors have been going out of their way to learn how to prepare some of their favorite foods,” Tobok said in between mouthfuls of various grains and green leafy vegetables.

“I guess I should be glad they started coming here,” replied Emma.

Shnooby was enjoying his own specially prepared meal. It looked like the vendors were also catering to the prized hunting animals of the Hunzack as well.

Onalen, like Tobok, had ordered a plate full of grains and leafy vegetables as well only not nearly as large of a portion.

“I still cannot believe that you pushed that large Hunzack so hard that he fell over like that. What have you been teaching her Tobok?” Onalen asked in between mouthfuls.

“It’s not anything that Tobok taught me it was just that I surprised him, that’s all,” replied Emma a little too quickly.

“Sure, right. If you do not want to tell me that is your right. I just thought that friends trusted one another and, well, I just thought that you were my friend,” Onalen said with hurt in her voice.

Emma looked at Tobok and said, “I guess we can tell you. I mean your dad is Onus, a close friend of Tobok’s and Tobok has known you your whole life, right?” she was directing this question more to Tobok than Onalen.

Tobok merely stared at Emma with a confused look on his face. He finally realized what Emma was asking and choked on his current bite. He burst into a fit of coughing. When he got it under control he again looked at Emma, this time with a stern expression.

“C’mon Tobok, if we can’t trust her then we can’t trust anyone, right?”

Tobok then glanced over at Onalen. She had this hurt expression that made Emma think she will burst out in tears at any moment.

“Alright, alright. Are you sure that the two of you have not met much earlier than this morning? Fine, we can tell her but, Onalen, you cannot tell anyone else. This is a very serious matter. I guess that it would make sense to have another pair of eyes keeping a look out for any suspicious people.”

For the next half hour, Tobok and Emma filled Onalen in on everything that had happened to Emma. With each new fact, Onalen’s expression grew more and more serious. When they had finished Onalen was speechless. When she had recovered from the shock, the only thing she could say was, “Oh my!”

“Now remember, you cannot say anything to anyone! It is bad enough that some of what we told you has leaked out and the rangers are calling her a Genek but they do not have details on what changes might have been done. I am still trying to find out who leaked even that small bit of information,” Tobok said angrily.

“They are calling you a Genek! Oh, I am so sorry! That is very mean and I would have thought that the Vanguard would have moved past such discrimination,” replied Onalen.

“It’s alright, I guess. Since I am a stranger to your world I don’t really understand how bad that word is and I guess I should be glad I don’t.”

“Let us not pay attention to such matters, they are not worth that much effort. What I am most concerned about is the invitation from the ranking Hunzack. As I said, it is not like them to interact in this manner with anyone, especially an alien Vanguard initiate.”

“Do I have to go, Tobok?” asked a concerned Emma.

“One does not ignore such an invitation Emma, besides this might shed some light on matters surrounding Shnooby’s enhancements as well.”

“If you say so. He didn’t say that I couldn’t bring a friend. When did you want to go?” she asked him.

“Let us give them some time to settle in. It would be polite to visit right after their last meal of the day so we will go then.”

“Can I come?” Onalen asked enthusiastically.

“I believe that due to the mysterious nature of this invitation that Emma and I must go alone. Do not look so disappointed Onalen, if this goes poorly it will be safer for you not to be there.”

Emma felt a knot form in the pit of her stomach. “Do you think that this could go badly?”

“We must always plan for the worst going into a situation like this. That way one is prepared for pretty much anything. The trick is to think of the absolute worst possible scenario, within reason. If you do not have that established correctly then things could be worse,” replied Tobok as if he was remembering the statement from long ago.

“Was that what one of your speakers told you once?” asked Emma.

“Yes, it was in fact the missing triplet, Kol’Roth. He was my speaker just before I became an Adept. If it was not for him I do not know if I would have become an Adept at all,” he said warmly. “He really helped me improve my focus. Anyway, since everyone is done with their meal I believe we have some meditation to do before our visit this evening. Please excuse us Onalen.”

“You have got to tell me everything that happens, OK?” she almost ordered Emma.

“Don’t worry, I will if everything goes well that is,” Emma replied nervously.

“You see, that is why you are here. The nervousness you feel already puts you at a disadvantage. I just hope that the time we have will be enough to prepare you. Take care Onalen!”

“See you guys after!” said Onalen as she turned and left them at the table.

True to his word, they went back to their quarters and spent the next few hours out on Tobok’s terrace deep in meditation. She really tried to concentrate and listened intently to Tobok’s instructions but she was not able to quash that sense of dread that was slowly spreading from that knot in her stomach. Shnooby was laying right next to her. She knew deep in her heart that she would not let them take him away from her and if she had to she would use any and all of her new abilities to make sure of that. It seemed that she conveyed some of her intent to Shnooby through the bond that they shared because she suddenly sensed deep gratitude from him.