Colliding Worlds

Most business Illya could run through Ehvan for the time and Ehud it seemed had been badly injured, but he was recovering. Ehud could run the moonshadow here and see to smaller things while Ehvan drilled with the men and took them on small missions to retrieve more supplies. They couldn't afford to lose much of anything and a few days for grief were to be expected. During that time Illya stayed with Kalizda and Cypher. It seemed the baby was determined to live and over the next several days he started to fuss a little. Illya held the baby almost all day and sat in the chair or paced the room. Cypher's tiny little head would rest right over Illya's heart and the nurse came in one night to see Illya laying in his bed and holding the baby to the front of himself.

"Here." The woman picked the baby up and motioned to Illya's shirt. "Cypher will feel more comfort if he can touch your skin." When she got a skeptical look the woman sighed. "It is just a fact. You want the boy to grow and develop faster, you want him to be well and you hold him all the time. I've seen you. General you can barely stand to put that baby down. Just take off your shirt at night or during the day for a while and let the baby have skin to skin contact. It will help build his immune system in a gentle way too. You can't afford for him to get sick now and that is the safest way for you to help him."

Slowly Illya stripped his shirt off and held the baby to himself. Laying under the covers with a baby only in its diaper on on his chest and one hand covering the baby he could the little boy start to sweat. It was good for a Chip baby to have a little sweat and it calmed the child. In the morning it was the same routine as usual. Kalizda was still in a lot of pain, but she could hold Cypher in the mornings and feed him a bottle. At first the baby protested to being pulled away from his father's large hands, but he would settle when he was passed to his mother's arms. While she fed the baby Illya rested one hand on the guard rail of the bed. Leaning in he kissed Kalizda gently. "I love yah." He had been so afraid that he would lose her that in some ways Illya wasn't quite sure what to say now that she was here with him. All that time he had worried and been almost sick and then tried his best to distract himself with all the plans of how to divide the Elite forces and how and where he would travel with his half of it first. There was less to do after his talk with Henaiah and he already had almost everything that he could have done. Now there was the time of waiting for her and Cypher to recover enough to travel.

When Kalizda started to drift off to sleep again Illya picked the baby up and held Cypher till he nestled in and fell asleep. There were a few things that Illya needed to do so he set the baby in the crib and gently brushed the baby boy's back a few times till the whimpering stopped. The little boy had become so spoiled that he didn't even like to try and sleep without someone holding him. Rose hadn't seen them in a few days and she needed to be able to come see Kalizda and take a peek at her brother. Illya needed to spend some time with her and make sure she didn't feel forgotten. That was the main purpose to going out for Illya.

Illya barely set foot out the tent and he heard someone suddenly pipe up. It was loud, shrill, and entirely unwelcome. The general was still tired out and he didn't want anything to do with whoever this guy was. Staring at him and the others in the room Illya shrugged. "Dey recover and Cypher es fine. He will live." Gradually his eyes shifted to stare more steadily at Ayrn. "Who are yah?"

Ayrn had always gotten some hard looks from the man, even some down right terrifying ones, but this time the look was different. Tired...and a little blank. Maybe he was just joking to lighten the mood. Glancing around the room, the Terran chuckled. "Yeah, I know. Been a few months right? Seems a bit longer though."

It was impossible to know what the man was talking about and Illya stared at him for a long moment. There was nothing about the face that made him think he should remember who this man was. "I dun know yah." Turning slightly to the side Illya scooted past the man and into the regular part of the moonshadow. Then a second later he thought better of it. The man was a stranger and he'd just asked about his family. After the last refugee blew up the entire moonshdaow Illya was about to let this one get away with something like that. Grabbing Ayrn around the throat he snarled. "What yah want wit meh family? How yah know dey here?" No one had said anything except those that knew him might have come here so this refugee was nothing, but trouble.

What was Illya playing at? Didn't know him? He actually sounded serious too. Ayrn frowned a little as the Chip skirted past him, then suddenly found himself grabbed by the throat. "What the-ahuhg!" He grabbed ahold of Illya's wrist, as the grip on his neck grew impossibly tight and the man growled at him viciously. No air could get through for him to answer the bizarre questions he was asking either and in a mode of panic Ayrn fumbled, trying to pry the tight hand away from his neck. In response to Illya, sudden aggression, Kirit drew his blade and watched the scene just in case. The young warrior was taking no chances after what he had seen over the last few months.

So far as Illya was concerned there was no need to take it easy on this one. No one spoke up to say that he did know him. Squeezing harder on the neck he felt a sudden weight and it seemed that the man was going to pass out, but Illya wasn't going to let the man do that just yet. While the man was still mostly limp he threw the little foreigner on the ground then started to pat him down looking for guns, weapons, bombs or anything of the sort. Tearing the eye path off he inspected that too. There was never any telling what a person would do to hide their weapons.

Ayrn landed half limp on the hard, stone floor gasping for air as Illya looked down over him like a heavy shadow. What the hell was wrong with him?! He tried to speak, but he was still trying to catch his breath and stall the mad Chip. Finally his voice caught on a breath as Illya was snatching off his eye patch. "The hell..Illya!?" At the sound of the outcry Thomas' eyes snapped open and he sat up to see Illya standing over the Terran man tossing him over like a criminal. I t dawned on him that the man wouldn't remember the Ayrn at all. "Illya, stop!" Thomas called, stumbling to his feet. "He's a friend!"

While the weasley man shrunk onto the floor and gasped for air Illya ignored his comment. It could be anyone pretending to be someone they were not. This wasn't past the Federation and he fully intended on seeing to it that his family was safe this time. There weren't going to be any foreigners in his home to destroy the life of his son and agreed. Tossing the eye patch aside he reached down and pulled the man to his feet. Thomas started to speak, but Illya still didn't loosen his grip. Staring from one and then back to the other he released Ayrn reluctantly. "Huh. Yah stay away from meh family." For now that was all the more he could do. Issue a warning to the stranger. Illya didn't like this man at first glance and usually he had good instincts when it came to people.

Sputtering, Ayrn heard Thomas call for Illya to stop. Thank God for Thomas. He was sure, that for whatever reason, Illya could kill him this time. The Chip snatched him up forcefully and he felt his feet lift the ground before his grip loosened, dropping him back down. "I'm a friend," he coughed, "We've been working together for almost 2 years! "

Why he should believe the man Illya didn't know. Coolly looking him over Illya shook his head. "Ef yah worked wit meh I would have records. I dun know yah." There were a few of his old reports in which there was mention of an anonymous source, but he couldn't ever figure out who this person was and he didn't want to simply assume there was any such person or even try to guess who it was.

Ayrn rubbed the red ring around his neck and shot Illya a look. He couldn't exactly say what he was doing for the man all this time in front of the weird kid with the fancy knife and Calysta's father. Thomas straightened out his knee and walked over to the two, picking up the eye patch as he went. "Ayrn was part of Calysta's crew and has been...more or less helpful to the cause. He came to make sure his Captain was okay." Ayrn nodded, pointing to Thomas. "What he said. How do you not remember?"

With the man still standing there and being troublesome Illya was feeling a bit irritable. He was on his way to do something important and this little twerp had held him up. "Doesn't matter ef I dun remember yah." Pushing Ayrn aside he started to stalk off toward Ehvan's. "Yah got report. She's fine and yah stay away from her I kill yah next time."

Aryn gave Thomas a wildly confused look as the man offered his eye patch back. "I know he's stressed, but what did I do this time?" Thomas sighed and smoothed his goatee before giving it a tug. "C'mon son,"he said to Ayrn, "Let's take a walk and I'll tell you. I need to stretch my legs anyways."

Now that he was back to his task Illya went straight to Ehvan's and stopped outside the little sheltered area they were in. "Es meh Rose 'ere?" Before anyone could answer the little girl came barreling out and she threw herself into his arms. There was that absolute trust that he would catch her and he did. Rose leaned back a little after the initial hug and placed one tiny hand on each shoulder. Playfully Illya tipped her to one side and tossed her over his shoulder like a little sack of potatoes. "Take yah away."

Rose giggled and flopped wildly against his shoulder. When they finally reached the hospital again Illya carefully set her down on her feet. "Yah little brother es verah weak right now and Kalizda es still sore. Yah be careful." The girl walked on her tip toes into the hospital room as if she wouldn't wake them. Peering inside the cradle she asked if she could hold the baby and Illya shook his head. "Not yet." After Rose had a few minutes to stare at her new brother she moved over to say hi to Kalizda. Illya could tell that the girl missed them, but there was not much he could do at this point to be with the girl and try to ensure that she was taken care of. It was all Illya could do to get himself taken care of in the mornings and stay here with Kalizda and the baby. They needed him here and even if it was difficult he was doing his best to be around. At least a few times a day he would go for a while or he would lean against the wall and read while they were sleeping. It took a long time to read, but he had to get through some of the newer reports at some point.

*******************************************************************

It had been a long week and a half. Cypher was still needing a special mask to help him breath, but otherwise the baby seemed to be doing well. While Kalizda had improved she was still weak and Cypher was only getting heavier. "Kalizda yah get yah clothes ready?" She was supposed to be getting her bag ready and he would take it to the ship. In some ways it would be nice to have their own room and it sounded like Henaiah had made contact with some people ahead of time.

He was going there and they had a house lined out and everything for him to stay in with his family. Grabbing his own bag and then the crib that the men had managed to salvage from the moonshadow Illya set it outside the tent. Kalizda was still in her robe. That had also been saved from the ruins. Fortunately that little wooden room he made had saved quite a few things inside. Most of what was in the tent had been completely demolished. "I get dis stuff loaded while yah pack oter tings eh?" With a sigh he stared at the already massive pile. How much stuff did she think they needed for this trip?

Apparently they needed everything because they were going to be living wherever this planet was for a long time. Illya noticed a few of the other men staring at their piles of stuff with similar expressions. At least he wasn't the only one.
 
Calysta drifted in an out of consciousness for the first few days, and that was for the better as her body began to patch itself back together. Illya would help her hold Cypher close and she could hardly believe how small and soft he was. He kept the mask on given by the Ehaui to help him breathe and as days passed, he slowly began to improve. Illya would kiss her whenever he had to leave for a little while and say that he loved her. "I love you too," she would smile back. His face worse a gentle sort of look, but had always been his eyes that gave him away. She could see the worry and the stress behind them. His shuddering inhales became less frequent and on the fourth morning, he let out his first little mewling cry. It was barely more than a squeak but it was there. Hearing a baby cry was something she never thought she'd be happy to hear.

Illya brought Rose back to see them and Calysta was happy to see her daughter. "There's my Rose," she chuckled, weakly. The girl grinned at her, but bounded right over to the crib first thing, excited to see her baby brother and already asking if she could hold him. Rose got a good look at him, but when Illya told her that she couldn't hold him yet, her shoulders sank a little. "Soon, I promise," Calysta said, from her spot on the bed. She perked back up and shuffled over the bed, trying to climb up. "Can I see with you?" Illya scrambled as she jostled the bed, making Calysta wince from the movement. "A little while," she puffed, trying not to show how bad the movement hurt, "Let Wolf help you up." Illya helped the girl sit on the side of the bed instead of crawling all over and Rose took to saying all the things she wanted to do with her baby brother once he could leave.

At one point in the night, Calysta woke from a pain and lifted her head to shift. In the dim light of their room, she caught sight of her Chip laying on his cot shirtless. His bottom lip was poked out just a little like it did when he was worried and his curls were a wild mess, but covered in his large hands was their baby boy. Cypher was cuddled up to his bare chest, little cheek to her husbands heart while they both snoozed. Seeing them both like suddenly made all the mad world come into sudden clarity. She understood now what Haza had meant by a baby being an extension of love and no matter what happened they were together.

The Ehaui nurse came by when she was awake enough and started showing her how to feed him. She hadn't started producing milk really, which was another quirk about half-breed mothers. They often had trouble breastfeeding, and sometimes making milk at all. Despite that fact, the nurse showed her the proper way to let him suckle from her. "Hold his head, always support his head," she said, correcting the new mother. Cypher seemed to know what to do, even if Calysta didn't and latched on quickly, though the meal was meager. "You'll have to supplement with a special formula for good and healthy bone growth along with his immune system." At the words, Calysta looked up wide eyed to the nurse, with a shock of fear. "Is his immune system..is it strong? Could you tell?"

The fair-haired nurse nodded and gave Cypher a gentle stroke with the back of her finger. "His respiratory system was underdeveloped as were his bones, but early blood work and scans indicate he will have a good Chippeqouti immune system as he grows. Feed him frequently and hold him often and he will grow just fine." Calysta held Cypher all the closer and rocked him ever so slightly. He would be a healthy half-breed

**************

While Illya was out, Thomas was finally allowed to come see his daughter and Cypher with Henaiah at his side. His daughter looked pale sitting up on hospital bed, her long black hair stark against the white sheets. No matter how she felt, his daughter pulled her lips into a smile as she turned over her hand revealing the smallest of babies clad only in a doll sized diaper. It was both beautiful and hard to look at all the same. The boy worse a breathing mask over his little nose and his eyes were clamped closed. He looked almost like Calysta when she was passed off into his arms on Pyrta by the messenger sent to deliver her. Fragile and yet strong at the same time.

"Come hold him dad," she said, inviting him over. Thomas didn't hesitate to shuffle across the room and take up his grandson. The boy fussed a little at being taken away from his mother's soft hands, but quickly quieted as his grandfather cradled him close. "He's handsome," Thomas said, as he stroked the boys head, "Just like his Papa."

Calysta's smile grew even broader and she nodded. "Like his father too."

Henaiah walked over and sat on the edge of the bed as she watched Thomas coo over his newest grandchild. "Aye, looks like he has his father's resiliency too."

"Didn't want to name him something more Terran, huh?" Thomas commented, half-jokingly, "I think Daniel would have made a nice name."

"He doesn't have a middle name yet," Calysta admitted, "Illya and I haven't had a chance to talk about much." Even now she could feel sleep starting its slow creep into the back of her mind. Daniel was her grandfather's name on her father's side. She had never met him and while she liked the name as a middle name, it would feel odd to have him after a great grandfather she wasn't close to.

"I didn't really know him," Calysta admitted. A moment of silence passed, and she thought about a middle name more. If he carried any of his grandfather's names she knew who it should be. "I would have to ask Illya about it, but I thought about maybe making Markus his middle name." The man had done so much for her and Illya since they met, and she wanted Cypher to have both Kaerelean and Chippeqouti heritage combined. If she mentioned it to Illya, maybe he would like the idea. While she thought it was a great idea, Henaiah and Thomas fell stone cold silent.

"What? Cypher Markus doesn't sound that bad," she said, quickly.

Henaiah let out a small sigh and patted Calysta's feet under the hospital blanket. The poor girl didn't know everything that had happened, and Illya had been keeping it that way undoubtedly to keep her less stressed, and because of his traditions. It wasn't doing any good to keep her in the dark though. In fact it was only causing the beeping of the heart monitor to beat faster. She knew something was wrong and soon it would be her job to know.

"Calysta, the moonshadow collapsed when an agent of the Federation posed as a refugee. He blew it up from the inside out. Markus was inside and he didn't survive. I'm so sorry."

Calysta looked at them with a hollow expression, thinking about the man. He had been aloof and intimidating at first, even when they had brushed paths on the Ekram, but over the past two years he had become somewhat of a second father to her. They'd had a kind and simple understanding between them since the day she managed to speak her first hello on that bench in the Nuen settlement. Then he'd always been there when they needed help most. Some viewed him as harsh, and at times he was, but she knew the softer side too. For all they said he was or wasn't, he had been a good man. Her heart ached for her Yvonne, and especially for Illya.

Henaiah let her have a moment to think as tears trickled down her face, but she didn't fully cry. "What are they going to do?" she asked finally. The Council woman hesitated, her eyes flashing to the monitors by the bed. Calysta sighed, and wiped at her face. "Just tell me." Thomas nodded to his wife and Henaiah began to tell her the new arrangements. Illya hadn't even hinted that any of this had happened at all. He was carrying all of this weight on his shoulders, her included, and he was only one man. "You'll be going to Pyrta when you and Cypher are well enough to travel. You'll be meeting Fayn there to help train the locals." Calysta tried not to make a face at the name and sighed. "Thomas and I will be going with you as well, for a little while. The people need to see their representative isn't just making announcements from the shadows."

"And we'll be there to help with the baby too," Thomas said, as he rocked Cypher. The child was starting to grow hungry and squirming with the grumble of an empty belly. Seeing his daughter's face of worry, he sidled over to her and took her hand in his free one. "It's alright sweet heart."

*******

Illya kept eyeing her growing pile of items for their mission to Pyrta. Apparently it was odd to have what could be salvaged of her clothes, books, and charts along with all of Illya's clothing, plus Roses odds and ends on top of the Cypher's medical and essential baby supplies. As she folded her last tunic into the bag, she caught Illya looking at her with wide eyes again. "It's not that much," she said, told him firmly. She wasn't going to point out the fact that half of it was their gear and while Illya had said he packed up earlier, he had been holding the baby and totally forgotten his socks and underwear. She had found the them strewn across the bottom of the box totally left behind while he attended to Cypher's bag. "Besides," she smiled, "We'll have a house again to fill."

She had said nothing about Markus' passing yet and gone right along with moving, having asked no questions about why. He was quieter than usual, and she could tell he was stressing. It wouldn't be long before she had a talk with him about it. He wouldn't like it, but he needed to hear a few things and if she had to remind him of his promise to listen, she would.

As Calysta packed up the last of her things and put them into her duffel, her father came around with Cypher in a little cloth sling. Illya had fashioned it for carrying their boy, but her core muscles were still a bit tender for holding him up like that. It took much of her energy to walk around and help pack. Despite that, she smiled at the sight of her sleeping boy and took him up in her arms. It wouldn't be long before they left, and there was one last stop they needed to make. Illya wanted to see Ehud and Haza and so did she.

Ayrn came sauntering up behind her father, keeping a cool distance from her but also, taking occasional curious peeks at Cypher. It was like he'd never seen a baby before and he wasn't quite sure it was real. "It's cute. Good to see he takes after his mum," he said with wink. Calysta rolled her eyes as Illya walked up behind her. Immediately the Terran shied away with his hands up. "Just came to say I get it now, man," the Terran sputtered quickly, "Take a look at the files...I never put my name on them."

Calysta glanced from Illya to Ayrn and back again. "What's he talking about?"

***********

Calysta found herself staring at the window of their cabin aboard the Urian transport. It was the same window Illya had carried her to some months before and told her what he wanted for their future. Outside the stars were flying by as they had before, but this time Rose was propped up, nose pressed against the glass and hands all over, trying to find all the places she'd been to. "We're going to where you grew up, right Kalizda?" she said excitedly. Kalizda had told her so many things about Kaereal and she wanted to see. "You said Cin and Keysha would have lots of room to run."

"Aye, they will," Calysta replied, "And we'll have a house again."

Rose giggled and drew away from the glass and scuttled over to the crib which was rocking naturally with the ship's engine. "Cypher will like it too."

Calysta nodded and then turned to look at Illya. He was watching his the crib with his son inside with an almost intense gaze for just a moment, but she wondered where is mind really was. Probably with the fact, that while they looked like every other Urian transport, there was still a chance to be caught out in the open on the 3 day trip to Kaereal. She walked over to him and slipped a hand around his waist, pulling him to him to her side just a little. "I think you'll like my father's house," Calysta told him, " You don't remember staying there, but we spent quite of bit time in while you recovered from the bone surgery. There's an omne fruit tree out front and plenty of room to run. A bedroom for us too."
 
Ayrn was causing trouble much the same as he had since he had showed up that one day. The general was half tempted to go grab the little rat by the back of his neck. However, the rat appeared to have understood that he should keep his distance and immediately backed off. Illya didn't want him looking at Cypher or Kalizda. It seemed that the man was saying something about the reports and Illya stared at him for a long moment. "Get out of here." However, it was a little late since Kalizda was curious. The general turned toward her. "I talk wit yah about dis anoter time."

Part of this was disturbing to Illya. If this was his contact he didn't know why he had half an inkling that the man really was trouble. He looked like it, acted like it, and only seemed to impersonate it at ever turn. Perhaps it was a good reason to look for someone else. Finding someone to do the covert spying was always a challenge, but Illya wasn't so sure that he wanted that. It could get them into a lot of trouble at this point. Even while he was finishing loading the family things onto the ship Illya would glance back at the trouble maker. What sort of business did he hire the man to do in the past. All he said was reports and it was as if he knew that Illya would know which reports he was talking about. Again, Illya couldn't see why he would have hired the man and he shook his head slightly. Loading up the rest of the way he stepped inside the ship.

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They were finally on their way and Illya couldn't help himself. There was much more to worry about than Kalizda knew. He was the one leading now and he had worked out some sort of joint leadership for now because the Chippequoti were in a time of instability. It helped in some ways and then this war was only getting worse. At least this time weren't cornered. Not yet anyway. Peering down into the cradle he watched the baby sleep and he was half tempted to pick Cypher up and curl the boy into his arms. Why couldn't there just be peace. All of his life Illya had struggled and he wanted something better for his agreed, his daughter, and son. Kalizda stepped into the scene almost suddenly and he looked at her with a raised eyebrow. Slowly a smirk came to his face. "Plenty of room tah run? Dis yah way of saying I get fat?"

Calysta's hand around his waist tightened as they looked over their son and suddenly Illya came out asking if she thought he was getting fat. Her eyes snapped up to his, growing wide and she shook her head quickly. "No, of course not." The little smirk growing finally clued her in that he was teasing though and she played the tips of her fingers over his side. "Then again...maybe some running wouldn't hurt...you know. If you can keep up with me that is.," she teased.

Sometimes he didn't know why she took things so seriously. The general's grin only got broader as she began to deny the joke. When she caught on he only grunted. "Keep up wit yah? Hah." Illya started to chuckle a little and he grabbed her hand that was resting over his side. "Yah nut so fast or yah gonna make excuse yah want meh to catch yah?"

He was teasing her like he used to and it was impossible not to rise to the occasion when he was like this. Giving her Chip a playful grin, as her cheeks turned pink from the idea of being caught up with him, even for a split second. "Oh, I'm plenty fast. I'll fly while you run," she chuckled, trying to play cool, "Only when I land I might give you the chance to catch up to me."

Illya started to chuckle. "Yah fly too....Mmmm." Giving her a fake look of disapproval he carefully pulled her a little closer. Glancing behind himself he made sure the door was closed and then realized it wouldn't do any good. Rose was in the bedroom with them. Instead Illya settled to sneak a hand to her lower back and maybe a little bit lower. Giving a gentle squeeze he kissed her on the lips gently. "I like ta see dat someday." About time he finished Illya realized it could sound very dirty and unrelated to their conversation. An even bigger grin came to his face and he chuckled a little more.

Calysta felt his hand pull her close and slip down past the small over back with squeeze as he bent down and kissed her with a different sort of feel than what his hand was suggesting. Her face flushed even redder when he said he'd like to see her fly...or was it be caught by him....someday. How was it he could still make her blush and simultaneously want to encourage him at the same time? It was almost a shame she was still a little sore, but it wouldn't matter because Rose was still in the room too. Leaning up on her tip toes she kissed his cheek right near his ear. "Hmm..I think maybe you will someday soon. Little birds can't fly forever."

The general moved his hand back to the small of her back and listened to her with a broad grin on his face. "Mmmhmmm....I know dis. I wait for meh little bird." He was part way through the kiss when the door swung open behind them and Maks stepped over to stand next to them. The man patiently waited for them to be done kissing and Illya still holding Kalizda turned his head to stare at Maks. "What es et?" Maks replied in his usual matter of fact tone. "We've finished the complete check and made contact with our base. Everything is clear, sir." Giving a sharp salute he left the room when Illya nodded and the general turned back toward his agreed again. Illya was about ready to say something and then Rose yelled. "Kiss her again!"

He bent low and kissed her and she couldn't help but let her other hand wrap around his side. She was so focused on the meandering kiss that when the door opened she hardly noticed until Illya pulled away, and turned to talk to whoever was in the doorway. Maks had come in and was just staring at them patiently while they were wrapped up with each other. Quickly, she hid her face a little in his shoulder, trying to cover the bright red blush as she silently scolded herself. It was time to start locking the doors again now that they were aboard a ship where nobody bothered to knock. When Maks was gone, Illya turned back to her and Rose started yelling to kiss again. Calsyta stole a peek at Illya from his shoulder and gave him a shy little smile. If he kissed her again he would be all the harder to resist, but she wanted him to anyways. "Hmm...I think I might be locking our door again now," she whispered, "Only if you feel like kissing me again though."

Illya nodded a little when she mentioned locking the doors. He didn't care for the idea of the men walking in or Rose walking in when he was with Kalizda in bed. That wasn't particularly what he wanted. "I tink we lock dah door, but a little person might have ta leave eh?" It sort of depended on how serious she was feeling about all this. Illya kissed her again and backed up toward the door. It was just starting to open again and it ran into him. "Not right now." Illya's voice was muffled a little during his kiss. Apparently dinner was ready and Rose was more than happy to rush out and get some. It could be their chance and Illya studied her face for a moment to determine what it was that she wanted.

Calsyta saw barely saw the top of Rose's head scurry out the door, already calling out to her friends. They had to be told it was dinner time. "Zachary!!! Caaarrot! It's supper time!" Her foot steps stamped further down the hall as the door tried to open again while they kissed. When Illya shooed away the second intruder, he finished the kiss and looked back at her uncertainly. Was he thinking what she was? There was one way to find out and little time to determine if he was. Gathering up her courage, she stood on her toes and pulled him into a kiss again, this time a little more fervent. If he wanted to try, so would she. "I cant exactly carry you off," she chuckled.

It was hard to tell exactly what was going through her little brain when he was looking at her. Sometimes Kalizda was difficult to read and then she pulled on the front of his shirt and brought him down a little closer to her. Illya reached behind himself and locked the door. She had barely released him from the kiss and then she decided to say something. It was slighty awkward considering he completely forgot to pick her up or respond in a way that would seem appropriate about now. "I tink dat would be meh job." Carefully grabbing her behind the knees he felt Kalizda fall comfortably into his arms and he carried her to the bed. Peering over his shoulder he tried to see if Cypher was asleep and it seemed the little guy was. "He can sleep en moonshadow. I tink he could sleep tru anyting."

He seemed a little serious, or maybe he just wasn't sure if this what he wanted as he picked her up and carried her over to the bed. Poking her head around his broad shoulder, she saw Cypher was sleeping well, curled up with his little orange blanket. "Aye," she chuckled, "He'll sleep sound through anything." He laid her on the bed and she pulled him close, kissing him again with little pecks inbetween the longer ones. It had been a long time since they were together and yet this would be like the first time for him. Smiling, she thought of the advantage that might have on a few things. "300 hundred years to study the little bird," she mused between kisses, taking his hand she led it over her legs.

The woman was far more tempting than he would have thought. Illya found himself edging a little closer with each kiss. Even if they were both still fully clothed it didn't feel that would last for long. Not at the rate he was moving. Kalizda broke the kissing long enough that he thought she would start to pluck at the buttons on his uniform, but instead she moved his hands to her legs and Illya caught his breath. That was a bold move, but he liked it. "300 years eh?" He remembered her saying something about a surgery or maybe he actually remembered it for himself. Right now that hardly seemed consequential. "I dun tink dat will be nearly long enough." Snickering a little he leaned in for another kiss and gently eased his hand up her leg.

****************

Both of them had been a little late to dinner and Illya was still trying to tuck his shirt in the rest of the way as he held the door open with one foot for Kalizda. When she snuck past to go out into the hall he gave her a quick kiss on the side of her cheek. She was certainly an exciting person in bed and he hadn't quite expected that. "Meh little bird es more feisty den I tink." All through the meal he would look over at her slightly confused in some ways, but still twitterpated. Illya felt like he was so close to remembering something. Anything, but he wasn't sure what it was.

When he and Kalizda finished the dishes as their contribution to the work Illya let Kalizda choose her task first and he took whatever was left. She needed more time to check on the baby anyway. In many ways he was glad that she loved babies, because even if he loved Cypher it wasn't likely that he would be very good as a parent all by himself.

Part way through the dishes Kalizda came out carrying the little boy and Illya grinned broadly at them. Almost instinctively he winked at Kalizda. It was just the two of them and Cypher in the kitchen because Rose was still busy playing some kind of hop scotch game and trying to get the men to do it with her. Some of them were more open than others to making fools of themselves for a child's sake and then there were a few that didn't like to ever appear foolish. The shrill orders to hop sounded every couple of minutes, but Illya was far more interested in Kalizda. Wiping off the last counter he held the rag behind his back and leaned in to kiss her again. While the two of them kissed Cypher remained almost completely still. Mostly the boy was still too small and weak to move much, but he did make an occasional whimper.

Illya squeezed his rag out and washed his hands before resting a hand on Kalizda's back. "We maybe lay on bed wit him eh?" Even if Illya wanted to walk next to her in the hall he was too big to. Instead Illya took up the front and opened the door for Kalizda. The two of them went to the bed and laid Cypher down on the bed between the two of them. Carefully the Chip rubbed the baby's back till it started to doze. Meeting Kalizda's gaze from across the small gap he smiled. "I tink maybe we have few minutes ta talk before Rose bedtime eh?" For the time Rose was going to be staying with them. She was too small to sleep elsewhere on the ship and Illya knew that meant she would try to crawl into bed with them. "Yah know she used ta jump in bed wit us. Gonna have ta watch out for dat in da morning." It wasn't till after Illya said it that he realized it was real memory. Pushing up on one elbow he grinned. "I remember et. We had room in dah house wit dah door and Rose come and jump on meh."

************************************

A report came in and Sasha stared at it. Her eyes were narrowing and she carefully set it aside. A hot temper hadn't got her this far. It was cool calculations. Another planet had declared that they would rather create their own faction of Federation. Those strictly loyal to the Federation were going to be spared. She would simply tell the Cirrelants that they could have access to all planets that refused the Federation. Depending on what happened with Terra would depend on where they attacked. Yarborough was still loyal to the cause she imagined he was much like herself. Waiting for his moment to strike and take over.

In the even that Terra lost they would be subject to more Cirrelant attacks and if they elected Yarborough she would tell him to do what he had to, to keep face, but she was taking care of the Cirrelants. There was always a way to cut a bargain and so far it was working quite well. They were about to become her whip. To allow them free access to any planet that wasn't loyal to her would quickly bring many back into the fold.
 
Calysta sat across from Illya at dinner feeling sore but thoroughly happy and satisfied. Apparently, Illya felt the same way, because as she sipped on her soup, her Chip kept stealing glances at her with a confused yet curious look. Like she was a puzzle he couldn’t quite figure out. At one point, she caught him looking and a coy little smile curled to her lips, before returning to her soup. After dinner, she helped clean up the tables while the rest of the men vacated rather quickly. They were either on their way to play a game with the exuburent Rose in the hallway, or trying avoid getting caught up by the child altogether. Calysta left the galley on her way to their bedroom to check on Cypher, he would be getting hungry or at least be awake and she needed to make sure his diaper was clean.

Sure enough, her boy’s blue eyes were open and while he didn’t cry or fidget all that much because he was too weak, those eyes followed her around the room. “There’s my boy,” she said, lifting him up from the gently rocking crib. One good whiff from picking him up told her it was indeed time for a diaper change and she laid him on top of a spare blanket on the bed to start the clean up process. “Where did you get those blue eyes?” she mused while she worked. None her family had blue eyes, at least not that she knew of. Illya had green, his mother sported pretty violet eyes, and…Markus carried grey. Thinking of Markus gave her a little twinge, but she kept up her sing-song voice as she swapped out the diapers. “Little man, big stink,” she chuckled, kissing Cypher on his forehead. He seemed much happier with his change in attire and Calysta scooped him up into her arms. “Let’s go see dad, hm?”

Padding back to the kitchen with Cypher she found Illya just finishing up the cleaning. He leaned down and kissed her with Cypher snuggled between the two of them and she kissed him by gently. She had missed this side of him. At his suggestion they retreat to the bed, Calysta nodded and smiled at the hand at the small of her back. Illya let her climb in to her spot along the wall, then he stretched out with Cypher between them. He kept a broad hand the boys back, gently coaxing him back to sleep. “He likes having you close,” Calysta said, as she gazed at her Chip. It still amazed her how gentle he was sometimes. As he started talking about Rose, she could help but watch him in even more surprise. She had never told him that. A smile spread across her face as Illya realized it too, sitting up in excitement.

“Yes,” she nodded, her grin growing even broader, “Rose would come running out of her little cave, the one you built, and dive into our bed in a fit of giggles in the morning.” She laughed just thinking about Illya becoming a Chip sized jungle-gym almost everyone morning on Nuen. “The first night, she brought every animal in the house with her and Cin actually sat on her. You had to pull him off.”

He snickered, no doubt thinking of the image of his little girl bounding around the room with the animals. “Oh she wasn’t the only one who had issues with animals. When we first moved in, you didn’t tell me about keeping live snakes in the kitchen…”

*************************************

On the second night of their travel, Calysta went to the kitchen and brewed what remained of Illya's favorite tea, then poured it into two mugs. Carrying the cups carefully, she brought Illya a cup of the sweet smelling herb tea , but as she entered the room, she noticed he seemed quiet again, deep in thought. It wasn't uncommon for him since the brain surgery, but she could also tell see a bit of underlying stress. Tomorrow they would be meeting with Fayn, but she doubted his mind was really on the events of tomorrow. Sitting down next to him on the bed, his green eyes finally flickered over to her. "What are you thinking of?" She said, handing him his cup, "Talk to me."

The smell of tea just faded into the background and Illya hadn't even thought of the fact that Kalizda was the one who was bringing it. He was still staring almost blankly while he tried to come up with a realistic training plan. They were going to be needing to get the men moving at a pace that the enemy wouldn't expect, but he also knew that not all of them could move at the same pace as a Chip. Like usual his mind didn't really stay on track and he was back to thinking about the baby, the attack on the moonshadow and everything else since that he could remember. Glancing over at Kalizda he sighed. "I tink about training eh?" It was probably the safest part of his thoughts right now.
In truth he probably was thinking of training, somewhere in the midst of everything else. He was going to avoid this though, and she knew he wouldn't want to. "Ah, just training then?" she sighed. Her hand settled over his wrist as her thumb stroked his hand. She knew he was hurting and frustrated. "I do know you a little bit better than that," she whispered, her eyes flicking up to meet his, "I know a fair few things, but I'd rather talk with you about them."

Kalizda had a way like not other and she was already telling him that she knew he was thinking of more. Slowly he let a breath out. "I tink of oter tings too." Clenching his jaw he waited for a long moment before saying anything else. "Dere es someting I should tell yah." Swallowing and waiting for a moment he thought about telling her the whole thing, but then he decided that she only needed to know the fact. "Markus es dead."

She could feel him tense as he worked up the way to get out what he wanted to say, if he would say anything at all. Finally, he managed the simple sentence stating that Markus was dead. Calysta nodded, but didn't admit to knowing that already. Instead she rubbing his hand gently and let him sit with the fact for a long moment. Chippeqouti didn't speak of the dead, but he felt so tense there was no way he could go on not letting something go. "Your father is gone...I know Chippeqouti don't speak of the dead...but I am here. To listen. I know now that he is gone there will be more on you."

She knew....In a way that helped and at the same time not really. Illya had thought that he had kept the information from her so she wouldn't have to worry about it. Instead she had known and he didn't know for how long. "Mmmhmm." Nodding in agreement he let her say what she wanted about it. Obviously it meant more work and he wasn't really sure what else there was to say for the situation. Illya remained silent while he stared ahead at the wall. He could hear little Cypher breathing and the cradle gently rock with the sway of the ship as it went through space.

He was still shying away from it and Calysta sighed some as they watched the crib rock of its own accord. His green eyes were trained on it so intently that she let him slip into silence for minute. "I thought when the Chippeqouti settled on Nuen it would be a new start for them. A peaceful new beginning. And it was for a time. It was a safe, beautiful place and I felt I had done something to help. When that peace was broken I was scared for the future and in a certain way, felt as if I failed. " Clearing her throat, she nodded toward the crib and the snoozing Rose in her cot. "Now, I worry for Chippeqouti and my family too. What kind of future will they have? It feels like the future is dark and there will never be an end to that." Gripping his hand a little righter and looked back to him. "One night in this room, right at that that window, you told me one day we will travel the galaxy with our children and never fear the federation. I think that will still happen, Illya. No matter how things seem now."

While she talked Illya just listened. He didn't really know what she wanted him to do or say about it. Things were what they were and he couldn't do anything about it. After what felt like forever of silence he gave her hand a gentle squeeze and then nodded. "Yep, I say dis once." He could remember that and Illya kept his eyes trained on her for a long time. She had to be wanting something, but she wasn't saying what it was.

The silence was unbearable and Calysta felt like she had failed when he finally responded. She always was terrible at these types of things even from the beginning. Still, she had to try even if it was hard. "Illya, I suppose what I'm saying is I am sorry this is on your shoulders. I don't know how to help but I will always try. It's harder to do when I don't know where your mind is though. If you don't want to say anything, okay. But considering the mission tomorrow and how you seemed stressed I thought you might want to say what's on your mind."

At his silence, Calysta leaned up and kissed his cheek gently. "Your father loved you, and so do I."

************************************

They landed on Pyrta in the late afternoon at the small airfield outside of town. A few personal flyers, a cargo transport, and a docking station amid a sea of golden grass with red tips waving in the breeze. The scene extended out into the horizon, and it was easy to think the land went that far too. It ended a mile to the west and several miles in any other direction however. Calysta knelt and took Rose by the arms, making her stand still for just a moment. Looking into her little girl’s eyes she made sure full attention was being paid. “Remember what we talked about? How the land floats and it’s a very long fall? What do we do on Pyrta?”

Rose titled her chin up smartly. “We stay away from the Edge.” Calysta breathed a small breath of relief, knowing her girl had paid some attention. “That’s right. Now, go on.”

The girl skipped off ahead of them, obviously happy to be back in her pink sundresses and her felt cap. It had been arranged for the men to stay on the ship until those who wanted to be quartered, could be allowed to stay in some of the houses on Pyrta with its families. For the time being, Thomas and Henaiah were taking Rose to the house while she and Illya met with Fayn. Kirit, Maks and Jonas would accompany them into the meeting.

As they walked in their herd toward town it was obvious that some of the fields had already been harvested, leaving the land behind the little round seed pods that the grass produced near its base. Rose nudged one with her toe and then her curiosity got the better of her. With hard stomp, she crushed the pod with her boot heel. The crunch she expected, but the explosion of red, furry seeds caught her off guard. The fluffy bits puffed out over her and carried into the wind as she squealed in surprise and delight. Calysta kept an eye on the girl as she did what every other child did on Pyrta at some point or another. Suddenly, a seed pod went sailing over the path and collided with Kirit’s back in a burst of red. The man let out a Kaerelean curse as the seeds clung to his clothes and equipment. Even his hair. Behind him stood Rose with a devilish grin.

“Ye got me,” the young warrior chuckled after the initial shock wore off. Rose went to pick up another, but Kirit scooped up one and squeezed it at the girl rather than throwing it. A jet of seeds puffed at her and the Reylian laughed. It wasn’t until he realized Henaiah was looking at him with a raised brow, that he tossed down the seed pod and dusted himself off with blush on his cheeks. “I..uh..work now.”

***********************************

Calysta stepped up the stone stairs into the town hall feeling a bit nervous. It had been years sense she had seen Fayn and she doubted it was going to be a pleasant reunion. When she’d asked why Henaiah wanted her to meet with him. Someone else would be far better received, she pointed out the fact the Illya didn't know Kaerelean and Fayn was a provincial sort of man with little to no experience in traders tongue. It would have to be her to translate best into Qouti. Dressed in her black tunic and silver belt, she walked into the small, but well decorated office of the official. He wasn’t exactly a big time politician like Henaiah, his jurisdiction was strictly limited to their town and public on-goings there. Not that he didn’t act like his position was a bit more when he could.
Fayn sat in his chair as they entered, and she could almost see the little glimmer in his eye. “I was not aware Councilwoman Henaiah wouldn’t be coming herself.”

Already he was looking past her to the others in the room with his sharp blue eyes and it was irritating. She kept her cool though, setting a neutral expression on her face, translating the words and then replying. “This is General Illya and our company. You contacted Councilwoman Henaiah about Pyrta being an ally in the war against the Federation. We are here to train those willing to help. I am a translator and diplomat.”
“Uhuh,” Fayn replied, not bothering to look at her, “Fancy that.”

Calysta had to keep from rolling her eyes and didn’t translate his reply, though it’s sarcasm was obvious. “Do you want the help of the Alliance and the Chippeqouti, Fayn?” she pressed, hoping to see an end to the meeting.

The man stood and straightened his tunic with a hard tug before walking from around his desk. “Does he speak traders tongue?”

“Aye, he is proficient but Qouti is-“

He ignored Calysta and offered his hand to Illya eagerly. “Accept, yeah?”

Time had done little to improve Fayn’s brashness or his views on half-breeds, but at least the meeting had been short. Calysta nodded to Illya to accept the deal and stood ready to continue translating any details that needed to be arranged.

**********************************

Ayrn sat in the diner on Alpha Centauri reading over the news on his info-pad. It had taken 3 days to get this far and his transport to earth had been delayed due to security checks, but that didn’t matter Leaving the moonshadow had been fairly easy because most of the Chippeqouti avoided him or ignored him completely. Illya, though he understood the man had a bullet rattling around his brain, didn’t want to listen to him. He’d even shoved him off without so much as a good luck. It was irritating and no doubt Chip was even crazier now than he was before. Then again, what he was doing was mad too.

A rich voice called from behind him, and Ayrn jerked his head back in the booth to see who he had been waiting on. A tall, broad shouldered man in a blue suit and features not unlike his own. “Son.”

Ayrn gave his dad an apologetic look and ducked his head. “Dad.”

William Yabrough slipped into the booth opposite of his son, and the two body guards in full gear stepped up to the table silently. William waved them away. “Go eat some pie or something. This is a family affair.” The guards exchanged looks but obeyed, stalking off to the bar top. The presidential candidate turn his hard gaze back to his son and folded his hands over the sticky dining table. “So, you’ve decided to come home.”
 
Illya had seen the Pytra on the maps and did a little reading on it. Overall he wasn't ready nor had he recalled the part about it all being floating islands. Was the entire planet like this?! The Chippequoti almost wanted to stay in the ship. He didn't particularly like the idea of the land just floating in the air and neither did he like land that he could see was floating on water.

They docked the ship and Illya walked over the dock with Kalizda and Rose. For now he carried Cypher and that wasn't going to be forever. The boy would need to be handed off to one of the other men's agreed or when he went to the meeting with Kalizda. It was the first time he was going to leave the baby and part of him didn't like to. During war the little one's only defense was their father. This had been hard with Rose, but she was a little older and Cypher was 100% reliant on Illya and Kalizda. The boy couldn't even do so much as crawl across the floor for a bottle even if he wanted to.

Eventually it was time to hand Cypher off and Illya carefully peeled the baby from the front of him. The tiny little fists clung tightly as they could to the front of his uniform. Handing the child to Mak's wife he nodded. "Yah watch him careful eh?" Taking a deep breath he turned with Kalizda toward the little area they were going to be walking into. Rose was far more excited with the surroundings than Illya was and he didn't particularly like it here so far. It all felt strange. After a short walk Kalizda stopped with Illya to a small dwelling type place and the two of them stepped inside with Carrot. Illya took a moment to look around the room and he watched the movement outside the windows with great interest. At least his men were standing outside and while there was only about 24 of them they were prepared and he knew that they could handle anything that came their way.

When the man Fayn appeared Illya waited for him to speak first. It was always better to see if the custom was for the host to speak first. At least that was what Illya had remembered being told when he was younger.

This man, Fayn seemed to ignore all custom and Illya was feeling a little ill at ease to start with. Kalizda did nod to him to accept the deal and Illya didn't really know what he was accepting. Instead he looked to Kalizda again and decided he would have to trust her on this one. Shaking the man's hand he gave a brief statement in Trader's Tongue. "Chippequoti do not speak in Trader's Tongue for agreements or negotiation. Next time I speak wit meh Kalizda." It was best to give the man a reason for the tradition as it was and Illya figured that it wouldn't be a problem in the future.

Fayn felt the man's hand shake was firm, something he appreciated, but the man started to talk, he couldn't help be surprised and also a little annoyed at the same time. Nevertheless he humored the General. They needed defense on Pyrta because it supplied much of the food used in rations aboard the Kaerelean fleets. If he had to talk with the half-breed, he would. "Not much traders-tongue m'self," Fayn said, before turning to Calysta. "Kalizda? A change in name doesnt do much but I'll play along. Tell him I will use you as a translator as he requests and he is welcome to Pyrta. His men may quarter with the families in town if they like. Go on and make it fast." Calysta translated the words, leaving out more insulting bits to Illya.

Since it seemed that the negotiations were pretty much done Illya moved almost right away to the next subject. "How many men do yah have?" He needed to know what the training would be looking like and getting a number was a good start. Hearing the number he nodded and then asked the next question. "Yah have dem assembled I look at men first."

"We have a 102 men. Most are strong farm workers and are out in the fields right now," Fayn said, "Training will have to be done in the evenings because of the day time work. I can have them assembled at sunset or there abouts. My men will work hard, I assure you. Good Kaerelean blood in them." Calysta translated in a flat tone, wishing he would slow down a little. He was speaking fast on purpose to test her though and she knew it.

Kalizda knew what to translate and what not to and it was a good thing. As soon as she said farmers his eyebrows raised. "Oh may the gods have mercy." There wasn't even such a thing as men that had been previously trained. Surely even such a place as this could have had 100 men that trained for war. Instead he was going to be training them how to pitch a man with a fork rather than hay. "Yah dun have soldiers? Onleh farmers?" Illya was feeling a little desperate. He'd never trained farmers before and he knew he was in for a nightmare.

"Pyrta is a civilian continent," Calsyta explained in Qouti. Fayn's eyes dodged between the two of them as if he was paranoid. "What did he say, half-breed?" The man pressed. Kirit's jaw clamped tight at the words in Kaerelean but he remained silent. It wasn't his place to interfere yet. Calysta translated to Fayn and he frowned, obviously unhappy with the question. "Tell him, those farmers are as good as any with training. We have a small peace-keeping department and it has served well. We stand ready to learn to defend. Wild's he makes it sounds like that isnt good enough." Calysta gripped the hem of her tunic and relayed only the relevant parts.

Civilian was one thing, but farmers. They conjured up horrible images and Illya couldn't help cringing. Training the farmers at night was even worse. Illya was the best at training and this was part of the reason he took this assignment for himself, but he couldn't teach someone who had no ability. Since they sounded like they were going to stand ready to learn and defend Illya continued. "Then have their agreed and children work fields. Men need to train all day and into night." Farmers would need a little extra and Illya planned on working them hard.

Calysta relayed the suggestion to Fayn, whose frown grew even deeper. It was obvious this man had no idea how farming during the harvest worked. They were from a desert planet, so how would they know? Fayn shook his head and then jabbed his thumb at the window. "You arrived at harvest time. Every available hand is already out there. We have to get the crop up at the peak before it withers. We all can't be mercenaries for a living. Until that's done, it can be night work only." The gruff man didn't bother to look at Calsyta but addressed her too. "Even you know that, make sure he understands." Calysta translated quickly leaving out the mercenary and last portions, but it her face was starting to flush a little.

"Only night work! I work yah men ta death ef dat's all yah give meh." Even Chippequoti couldn't run those hours and it seemed this man thought that they were going to be working easy hours. However, he had to deal with this person and Illya was already starting to feel irritated. "Fine den yah teach Chippequoti tah harvest and we help one day and den yah farmers work two days all day and into night wit us training. Chippequoti work better den men and we do work faster. Meh men and mehself work now." Starting to unbutton the dress uniform part of his shirt he prepared to strip down to his usual shirt and just leave his usual combat pants on tucked into the tops of his boots.

This was getting out of hand and Calstya was beyond irritated at this point. She had know dealing with Fayn would be a pain to begin with but she wasn't about to give up. The man was giving her a bizzare look at the sight of Illya dressing down before glancing at her. "What in the wilds did you say?" Calysta folded her arms in front of her and raised a brow. "The General states they will help with the Harvest if you can manage to give him two days all day and night of training. I suggest you take the offer or make a better one. The General stands ready to work." The Kaerelean still seemed reluctant. Such hard days would wear on his men. "Perhaps it might be better to see if some of his men can help in the fields while yours train?" Fayn puffed up at her suggestion, a bit indignant. "I don't need your advice. Tell him do that's fine. We'll teach the harvest and he can teach the men as he sees fit." Calsyta translated it back to Illya, trying to hide her anger.

Illya threw his over shirt over his shoulders and marched out the door toward the men. "Pants and work shirt onleh. We get en fields today and get dis harvest done." The men all started to strip their dress shirt part of the uniform off with a yell of "Ous." That was the only response as they prepared and began to immediately line up. They were ready to learn whatever it was and if they were harvesting they were going to do it with the same gusto as they did training. "Leave 10 women wit children and dah rest help en fields." Quickly the women began to decide among themselves who was staying with the children and who was going to be working. A line of women formed as well in their pants and plain work shirts as well. Illya turned toward Fayn and nodded. This time he spoke in Trader's Tongue because the deal had been made. They would help for a day and his men would train for two and then the pattern would continue. "Chippequoti are prepared to do as we must. Teach us."

Calysta unbuckled her cloth belt and shirked off her own tunic a bit rougher than necessary, leaving herself in her boots, leggings and tank-top. Fayn had to be so proud that he would put his men through two days of training with Chippeqouti. He had no inkling what that was like and while Prytan men were born and bred hearty for farm work, they would still have trouble keeping up. So would she at this point, but she was part of the unit and she would do her part. Fayn strode outside behind them more than a little confused at the sudden exit and came to a halt in the door way. "Does he always take off like that?" he grumbled at Calysta. She cast a glance at the man and shrugged. "We don't waste time. The General says the Chippeqouti are prepared. Teach them." He raised a brow at her. "Can't you teach them? I have things to do too, you know." Calysta snorted and shook her head. "Oh no, I'm only a half-breed and you'll want this done right, after all. They are waiting for you." Fayn stepped down the stairs with a grumble and pointed toward the east fields. "First we clear the land of any bramble grown in the grass. Then we take the tractor and go down, cutting it all in rows. Once that's done, we get the baler and sweep it up. The baler isn't working quite right so the bales will have to be picked up by hand and placed on a skimmer. There are 7 miles of fields before you reach the other town to the west and its the only portion uncompleted. The men out in the field will show you how the equipment works. Try not to step on the seed pods." Calysta translated the words back to Illya and the other Chippeqouti men who stood ready.

While the man explained the work Illya and many of the others frowned. They weren't farmers by any stretch, but it couldn't be too difficult. Since they had a general direction in which to go Illya started out the jog toward the fields. For the sake of Kalizda and the other women he kept it slower for now. Once they reached the fields a pot bellied man started to show them the difference in the plants and how to handle the weeds and brush that had to be picked by hand first.

With brush being the first task Illya divided the Chippequoti into groups of 3 and sometimes four depending on who was in the group. Kalizda he kept with himself. "Yah work next to meh." Gently taking her arm he held her next to himself as if claiming she was on his team. Illya figured with it being early morning that he could likely get through the field with the other Chippequoti. Only seven miles and the man was making such a fuss over it. When the farmer managing the field showed them what he wanted pulled Illya pulled one to see how fast he would pace himself. It was going to make his back sore, he knew that much, but they could get it done probably far faster than any of these other farmers.

Starting at the beginning of the field Illya offered a prize to the winner. "Group dat gets dere row done first gets next two days off. Dey can help manage training." That was always a bonus since it was fun to watch men unfamiliar with their ways suffer. Chippequoti did have a slight ornery streak and getting the next two days off meant that they could rest and take it easy while the others worked. Illya worked pulling only the weeds and he had piles of them along the way. The fourth member to groups would collect all the piles and run them out of the field and then go to another row of workers and collect the weeds from that mile that was being worked. There wasn't any time to waste and Illya fully intended on bringing in the rest of this harvest. Part way through the field he saw that there was still a lot to do and his back was already hurting. Standing up straight he winced and twisted a little to see if he could loosen up the muscles.

Sweat poured down Illya's face and he was starting to soak through his shirt. His hair hung in loose curls with sweat beaded in it. Bending over he resumed pulling the weeds. Glancing at one of the men he gave a short order. "Both hands. Yah work faster." It was already well past lunch, but Illya kept working. Kalizda looked like she needed a break and he nodded to her. "Check on Cypher and Rose eh? Maybe time ta feed Cypher." From what he could tell she was wore out and she needed a break. Having Cypher was good enough of an excuse to let her go tend to him. Besides it would give her a chance to nap too if she needed.

Farming was a horrible kind of work. Illya saw that one of the groups were nearly done when the sun started to lower in the sky again. They could probably get all the baling done by dark if they worked a little faster. There were still several hours left. "Double time!" Yelling the order he bent over and continued working at a furious pace to get the last bit left. Men further down the lane yelled to each other. The first group done proved it by getting the machinery and started it up. One of the men ran the tractor through to cut all the grass down and he finished the entire section about time the last group skipped out of his way. A woman came behind in the baling machine. Illya watched it with a little interest, but he noticed that the bales were puny. Running up along side the baler he jumped onto the steps and knocked on the door. When the woman opened the cab door he yelled over the roar of the engine. "Yah waste time making dem so small. Change settings we need bigger bales." The woman nodded and then began the process to reset the size for the bales.

Now that the bales were much more efficient for time the Chips would pick them up off the ground and the men would toss them to the conveyor belts set up throughout the field. By the time they were finished with the field Illya was hungry, the sun was beginning to set and he fully intended on getting up early. If the recruits weren't out by sunrise he was going to start with Fayn's house to collect the man and then the rest of the trainees.

Stopping outside Fayn's house he knocked on the door till it rattled and when the man answered Illya gave him a cheeky grin. "Chippequoti help yah farmers. Dey train for two days now. Den a day off and more days tah train. Sunrise dey all be ready. I come get yah ef yah nut wit dem."

On the way back to the ship Illya noticed a small irrigation ditch and he wanted to wash his hands off a little bit. While Kalizda waited above him Illya swished his hand around in the water. He found a little snake in it and the snake had no teeth and no venom so far as he could tell, but it wanted to swallow his finger. Swishing his hand around in the water Illya waited till he had a snake on each finger of his left hand. Bringing it out of the water with 5 little snakes dangling from his finger tips he waved at Kalizda. "We eat good eh!"

Dinner was simple, but good. Illya loved the little snakes. They were tender, sweet, harmless, and easy to catch. It wasn't until he got into bed that Illya noticed he was having problems. His back began to ache only about half an hour after he got into the bed. Tossing and turning he tried to find the most comfortable position, but the muscles were spasming horribly. Grunting a little he sat up and tried to stretch his back a little. Instead it started to spasm again and he winced. Taking himself to the medicine cabinet Illya took out a lozenge for himself and tucked it into the side of his cheek. It didn't take long for the lozenge to begin to take affect and his back started to relax enough that he could actually try sleeping.

***********************************************************

Illya got up before sunrise and he cooked a hearty meal with the help of a few other men. There was enough for the women and children as well as all the men. It would get the day going right and then they would begin training. Despite the fact that his back still hurt Illya was determined to start the farmers out with endurance training. If they could outlast the Federation that would be their greatest technique and then he would begin to train them how to fight. They were going to need to have all the endurance they could get by training if they were going to make it through a fight.

Walking down the line of men Illya looked them over. He was disappointed in many ways and it was something he should tell them. For the sake that they were not familiar with Quoti and he wasn't negotiating Illya took charge to speak for himself. "I here ta train yah." Glancing at one man's fat belly he sighed and continued. "Yah disappointing ta look at. Some of yah fat, oters never look like dey know a fight. Dere es no point teaching yah to fight yet. I dun tink yah will last one day in a test of endurance." Giving an order in Quoti he watched his men flank the side of the 100. "Dey are here onleh to make sure yah keep up and yah push yahself. I tink some of yah are lazy. Federation never lazy and yah never get mercy. I teach yah to endure, fight, and kill."

Stopping approximately half way after he'd walked from one side of the line to the next he finished out his mini speech. "Yah respect meh. I dun care what yah tink of meh. No man has respect till he earns et." Motioning to Kalizda with one hand he nodded. "Kalizda es Chippequoti translator and important officer of meh people. Treat her same as meh. She es ta be respected at all times. Ef I hear dat yah consider her less den mehself den I remind yah of importance of Chippequoti translator.'

With nothing more to say he started off in a jogging pace with his men ensuring that the Pytrans were following and keeping pace. They were going to be running for half the day and then Illya would have them stop running an then they would begin to scale walls, jump the ditch, and learn to overcome whatever obstacle presented itself.
 
Calysta was glad Illya decided to pair with her for field work. Not only could she keep a good pace, but it was nice to work alongside him, plus it kept her away from Fayn for awhile. The man was rude to anyone he deemed inferior and that hadn’t changed even since she was a child. In fact, it seemed even more acute than before in some ways. As they jogged out into the fields, Kirit came along side her and gave her a knowing look. “Not a word,” she said firmly to him. The young warrior pressed his mouth tight at the order and then nodded silently in response. He may not have liked it, but she had given the order and for obvious reasons.

Farmer Hiran taught the Chips which plants to pull and which to leave behind and as soon as they new, the men set to work. Calysta already knew most of what the farmer said, so she was able to help point out to some of them hidden weeds. “Watch that briar,” she said to Maks as she tugged at the weeds, “It’s tangled around that section near the root.” More than once, the men discovered what the seed pods were. Every now and then puffs of red seeds clouded over the tall grasses and one of them would be heard sputtered the fluffy bits from their mouth. It was hot, dirty work pulling the weeds row after row and Calysta could tell her stamina had not yet fully returned from the ordeal at the moon shadow. Her belly ached a little with the movement of her new scar as her hands picked up cuts from the briars. Soon she was dripping sweat with tiny tendrils of her black hair plastered at her hairline. Wiping at the sweat with the back of her hand, she went back to tugging at the weeds with a vengeance. She would stay in the fields like the rest though. Her mind wandered to what her baby boy was doing and what Rose was up to. Was Cypher breathing okay? Did she make enough formula? Send enough diapers?

Illya stood and gave a twist to his back, then bent back to keep tearing at the weeds, his curls hanging soaked over his face. He would be sore as she was come time to sleep. As the afternoon wore on, Illya nodded to her to check on Cypher and Rose. “Aye, I’ll go and be back for awhile.” Cypher had to be getting hungry and while she didn’t exactly produce copious amounts of milk, she could always tell when it was time by how tender she felt.

Walking through the rows, she came to the main path cut through the field and flagged down the skimmer which carried the water tough. The Pyrtan gave her a broad smile before pushing open the door. “Ye hop in, yeah?” She knew Gentra and her husband as they lived down the street from her. Gentra was a sweet older woman, but her husband didn’t care for half-breeds either. He sat cross-armed and unmoving in the cab, having caught a ride out to deal with moving the irrigation systems. Gentra smacked her husband on the arm but he only slid over in the seat enough to fit a mouse next to him. “I’ll ride in the back,” Calysta sighed, too tired to argue. Had she not been expected to behave as part of a diplomatic endeavor, a few choice words would have tumbled from her lips. Instead, she swallowed them and climbed into the back of the truck alongside the water reservoirs. When she was settled in between the sloshing containers, Calysta tapped the side of the skimmer and they started off through the fields as a brisk speed. The wind felt cool on her hot cheeks, catching in her hair as they zipped past workers toward the town. Despite the home coming, it felt good to be back in her home town in some ways. No place had the crisp smelling air quite like Pyrta.

They dropped her off in town where she had to figure out who was being quartered where. After a few questions from the volunteers watching all of the children, she found Maks’ wife holding her boy. Cypher was awake but he wasn’t fussy. As soon as he spied her over the Chip woman shoulder though, he wiggled some, trying to keep her in his sights. “Thanks, Aleah. I hope we was good for you, yeah?” She nodded, and passed the boy over to Calysta’s waiting arms.

She carried her boy to her father’s house to find Henaiah and Thomas cleaning. The house had been tossed over more than once since her father’s disappearance but the thick layers of dust showed that nobody had bothered to come snooping in a long while. Rose had already found her old room and was rummaging through the closet. “Kalizda!” the girl called from the second floor bannister, “Where are all your dresses?”

The girl had never seen her wear a dress and how she came to the conclusion there should be some in the old closet, Calysta couldn’t begin to guess. “ I wanted to make sure you had plenty of room for yours,” she responded from the living room. Rose dashed back into the room with a giggle as Henaiah came around the corner from the kitchen. The woman gave her a gentle smile and walked over, offering Cypher a finger to curl his little fist around.

“Sweet boy,” Henaiah cooed, before turning her eyes to Calysta, “The house is almost cleaned up for you. There’s food in the fridge and the bedrooms have fresh sheets now. The crib is the master bedroom.”

Calysta tilted her head in confusion. She had thought they would all be staying together. “Where will you and dad be staying?”

“We’ve made arrangements to stay with a friend of mine in town. They have a nice spare bedroom and-“

“Henny! I found it!” Thomas said happily as he came around the corner carrying a box. Calysta recognized the old crate instantly.

“Are you sure?” Calysta replied, “And, Dad Christmas isn’t for 3 weeks. Isn’t it a bit early for decorating?”

Thomas put the crate down on the couch and grinned at the sight of his grandson cradled against Calysta’s shoulder. “It’s two weeks away and I wanted to get a head start.”

Henaiah let out a sigh and nodded to answer the original question. “Yes we’re sure. You need space for your family.”

Thomas gave Cypher’s head a tender kiss and the put an arm around his daughters shoulder. “There’s also something up in the master bedroom for you.”
Calysta took the stairs carefully with her father trailing behind her almost eagerly. When they reached the bedroom, he pushed opened the door showing the freshly cleaned room. The bed was made and the crib sat near the foot of the bed. In the corner, sat a new piece of furniture. A glossy wooden rocking chair. “The same chair I brought when you were born. I remembered it was in the attic and thought you could use it.”

With a smile, Calysta turned and kissed her father on the cheek. “Thanks dad.”

**********************
After feeding Cypher and making sure he was asleep in his little crib under the careful watch of Henaiah and Thomas, Calysta made the long hike back into the fields. The shadows were long on the ground now as the sun was beginning to set. The flytr bugs were starting to float where the grass had been sheared from the field. The progress they had made was incredible, but there were still miles to go. She found Illya hauling bales that weighed more than she did by a fair margin. The bales had never been so big before. She started to pick up one by the twine wrapping only to find, it wouldn’t even budge.

She heard a few snickers from the farmers as they pitched bales onto the moving belt stretched down the row. Shooting them a look, Calysta started trying to lift it again, this time felt much lighter. Kirit had come by and was holding up the other end. The young warrior was covered in sweat and red bits of fluff but he gave her a firm nod. “Ye take th’ lead.”

To the surprise of many of the Pyrtan’s the harvest was completed a day early. The completed work earned the Chippeqouti a bit of appreciation and many of the residents were starting to become more at ease around their new allies. Covered in grime and seeds, Calysta walked beside Illya on the way back to the ship to grab their bags. She could tell by the way he was moving that he would be sore from all of the work, but it didn’t seem to be dampening his spirit. He bent down by one of the irrigation ditches and washed his hands. She looked out into the sunset, letting him clean his hands until she heard splashing. Illya stood with a broad grin and held up his hand. “Eeip!” Calysta leapt back from Illya’s finger tips which had a little grass snake stuck to each one. He looked bizarre with the little slinky creatures clamped on to his hand like that. “Illya,” she said in a half gasp, half giggling breath, “As long as you don’t plan on sticking them in the kitchen drawer alive.”

******************************

After retrieving their bags, Calysta lead Illya to her father’s house. She was ready to rest and be with her baby. When they walked through the front door, she found her father with Cypher curled on his left shoulder with the breathing mask on. He hadn’t needed for a few days and immediately, Calysta dropped her bag to get him. “Is he okay, dad?” Picking up her little boy, she cradled him close, her grey eyes scanning over every inch of him. Seeing that mask on him again made her a feel nauseous.

“He should be fine,” Thomas assured her, “The altitude is different here and he seemed to be having just a little trouble when he laid down to sleep.” Calysta winced at the report. Why hadn’t she thought of that? “He’s breathing fine now?”

Thomas nodded and offered his hands again. “You took a few days to adjust when you were brought here too. Why don’t you two get cleaned up and we’ll start on some dinner?”

Calysta kissed Cypher’s head gently and laid him back into her father’s open arms. She wanted to just lay down with him, but her father was right. Her and Illya both were filthy from the day in the field.

“Oh, Illya found us some dinner for tonight,” Calysta said, “I’ll cook it up, no need for you to worry about it.” Her father hated snake if he knew he was eating it. During her time on Nuen she’d fed it to him several times without a single word of complaint from him though.

Thomas’ eyes narrowed at his son-in-law with suspicion. He’d had one too many surprising meals with the man to know that dinner wasn’t just a normal affair with him. “Aye, so what are we having?”

************************************************************
Fayn met them early in the morning for training as he was bid, but it wasn’t without some sort of huffing comment about, “Having other things to do on top of this.” Most of the farmers that assembled were either young men, barely of age or older fellows a bit gone to seed. After Illya spoke about training, calling them lazy and then also about respect there was a small murmur that rose up, lead by Fayn. “Eh, Terran, Kaerelean, or whatever else, I doubt any of it will help you keep up.” Some of the Pyrtan’s gave their mayor a hard look of disapproval and others nodded in agreement.

As endurance training began, it was obvious the Pyrtan farmers, for all their strength were going to have trouble keeping up. The younger men kept up for the long run decently enough, only falling behind a few times and catching back up when barked at by Illya or Maks. The older men trailed far in the back, some sweating profusely after just the first mile with their pot bellies swinging under their tunics. Kirit kept his pace steady behind Illya and in front of Calysta. They ran for miles on the flat terrain until they came up on a wide irrigation ditch. The Chips jumped the gap easily and some of the young Pyrtan’s gave it a good try, landing on all fours on the other side of the steep embankment. Calysta took the leap without breaking pace, coming up short, but still further than many of the others.

Fayn huffed behind them, red in the cheeks and a surly look on his brow. How did they expect his men to do all of this day one? What made it even worse was that the half-breed woman was faring better than most of the men. It was just embarrassing to be shown up by a woman of unpure genes. He forced himself to catch up with the young men though he was pouring sweat and his muscles were burning. “You..keep up with the men well,” Fayn said behind Calysta in Kaerelean, “Maybe its more than your genes that are scrambled.”

Calysta’s face grew red and she surged ahead, trying to put some distance between herself and the man. Kirit caught the comment and scowled, having hit a limit with the man. Calysta wouldn’t say anything because she was a diplomat and Illya didn’t understand Kaerelean. Lucky for him, he was fluent and a warrior instead. The young warrior came to run alongside the arrogant purist, earning him a look of contempt too. “Ye talk of pure blood an’ body, but th’ only dirty one I see is you,” he said in traders tongue.

Fayn looked over the young man like he was an idiot. “I’ma not’dirty."

With a snort, Kirit flicked his foot out in front of the man, tripping him mid-stride. Fayn plowed into the dirt chest first, picking up a mouth full as he came to a halt. “Ye are now,” Kirit called over his shoulder without breaking his pace in the slightest.

******************************************************
After the first day and half the night of training, the Pyrtan’s returned to their beds dreading the next day of training. Kirit found he was tired, but his curiosity overran his exhaustion. He’d heard so many of the stories of the mother planet’s floating continents. Rather than starting out to his quarters, he called out to a few of the men. “I think I like t’ go see th’ edge if ye want ‘t come with?”

Maks seemed interested along with a few others, so they took one last quick jog toward the nearest part of the edge. It was almost hard to see in the darkness, but when they came within a few hundred paces, the end of the continent became clear against the night sky. Kirit stepped closer and closer to the open sky, taking each step with purpose to ensure his footing was sound until he was a few paces away. Just close enough to see without falling. The wind was stronger near the Edge and it ruffled through his clothes as he peered over the side to see the swirling mists below. “The Wild’s,” he whispered in a little bit of amazement. It was hard to think that ancient Kaereleans had dared to launch themselves off the side in the hopes that their crafts didn’t fail. Squinting, he thought he could almost see the trees of the Wild’s below shifting.

Suddenly, he was pushed forward with a strong hand. Kirit yelped and dug his heels into the dirt, but the same hand snatched his shirt and jerked him back again. The Chip men started laughing as the young warrior clutched at the hand on his shirt collar. His heart felt like it was about to burst out his chest until he heard the crowing laugh of Maks who had grabbed him up. “Yeh don’t like tah fly, eh?”

Kirit shook his head as Maks moved him away from the Edge before releasing him. Normally, it would have been embarrassing to be caught off guard like that, but he knew they meant it in good humor after training with them for awhile. Rather than growing angry or quiet, the young warrior broke out into a laugh. “Not like that. I swim better anyways. ”

*******************************************************
After the second day of endurance training the Pyrtan men could be found in one of two places on their rest day; in their beds or at the pub. Fayn limped his way across the fields behind Illya and the others. There wasn’t an inch of him that didn’t ache in some way or another, but as talks of visiting the pub circulated among the younger men, he steeled himself for a long night. He wasn’t about to let the young pups show him up, the General, and especially not the half breed who stayed grossly close to his side. Why did he let someone stay that close? It gave Fayn a dirty sort of feeling, like the mix-genes could be contaigious. He knew that wasn't possible, but growing up, his mother always had her suspicions and imparted her wisdom on to him.

Grunting, Fayn forced himself into a jog and tried to catch up with the General. “Ye’ take a drink?” He called to Illya from behind in what he believed was excellent traders tongue.
 
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Illya thought about having a few drinks. He still had Kalizda and the little ones at home. For a moment it sounded tempting and at the same time he wanted to get some time at home too. "Aye...Jes for a bit. I need tah get home after a few." Glancing to Kalizda Illya almost seemed to silently ask for her permission to have a few drinks. It would mean that dinner would be about half an hour late, but he would time himself.

Fayn watched as the General reluctantly agreed and then looked to the half-breed woman as if he was waiting for her translate perfectly clear traders tongue, or almost as if he was asking permission? Calysta nodded and replied in Qouti with a small smile, "I'll go get supper started and the kids ready to eat, if you want to go." Calysta wasn't a fan of Fayn, but she could tell Illya was a little torn about wanting to go. Fayn's eyes bounced back between the two of them with suspiciously. "If ye like 't come, ye welcome. Don't need translator, yeah?"

The man was obviously misunderstanding of the situation and Illya rolled his eyes. "I dun need translation." Parting ways he went with the man toward the bar and shook his head a little when he noticed the few glances back at Kalizda. "Dun even tink about et. She's meh agreed and I dun share." He'd already figured out that some cultures didn't mind sharing, but he did and he wasn't going to even give the man a chance to ask about Kalizda having another man.

Fayn cast Thomas' daughter a small smirk, having gotten her dismissed by the General by the looks of it. The beer would be all the better without her hovering around making him look bad and feel gross too. Tapping his fingers on the bar top, one of the bartenders nodded knowingly and started pouring up a cold harvest ale. The General seemed to think he needed to explain his translator though and some how it sounded like a warning, until he said something about agreements and not sharing. A horrible thought dawned on him and his swiveled around to the tall man who was receiving his mug. "Ye' what?" he balked, "Ye together with that one?!" he said it loud enough that a few others glanced up from their conversations out of curiosity.

For a moment Illya couldn't figure out if he had said something offensive or not. Turning on his own bar stool the general slowly turned so he could get a better look at those around the room. When he swiveled back to see Fayn sitting in front of him he sipped at the drink and slowly nodded. "Mmmhmmm. No better woman." Illya set his beer on the counter and met the man's gaze only to see that there was something wrong. "Why yah seem so upset?"

The rest of the room was filled with people, mostly curious though there were some harder looks, but it was hard to tell if that was due to the words or the outburst itself. Fayn lost a taste for his beer and now he just felt odd sitting next to the man. Maybe the General didn't know what he was married to? Thomas' daughter had lied before about her heritage and it wouldn't be above her to do it again just to find someone to take her muddled genes. It would be embarrassing not to know when everybody else in town did. "Ye don't know?" he said quickly, before dropping his voice low, "Th'woman...is mixed...half-breed."

Illya blinked a few times and he frowned at the man. "Yes I know dis." At the same time he was starting to get an idea that it wasn't what he thought. They didn't approve of her. There was no way that he could make them approve of her, but he certainly wasn't interested in finding out if the man thought poorly of her. "Kalizda es meh woman and she's onleh one I want. She es Chippequoti now and yah respect same as yah respect meh." That was all the more he intended to say about it for now.

Fayn furrowed his brow and shook his head in distaste and managed a swig of his beer. The man actually knew what she was and it appeared he had married her anyways. It didn't make sense to pollute a perfectly good blood line with an already tainted one. "Ye choose not Chip, not pure, but Thomas' mixed daughter. Respect ye but why ye chose it is beyond me. Mixed gene 'f sickly babies as 'th line goes. Not right. Ye teach t' fight but ye men not touch 'th women."

Taking a deep breath Illya set his mug aside and he started to feel the burn deep in his guts. He was almost beyond when the man called her a mixed daughter and then spoke about sick babies. When he said it wasn't right that had been the last of it. There was already enough stress in his life and now this man had sat here and criticized his agreed openly. Jerking the man off his stool Illya glowered at him. "Yah will respect her as much as yah say yah respect meh. Dis talk es nut showing yah respect." Setting the man down he nodded to him. "Yah will get down and perform iron cross for 5 minutes and den yah will learn ta keep criticism of yah superior to yahself."

At the sudden movement, the Pyrtan's in the room all froze and watched as the Chippeqouti General snatched their representative from the stool and gave him an livid stare. Nobody quite knew what the situation was because Fayn could be an ass, and the Chip leader was a wild card. Fayn growled at being picked up, and spoken at by the man in his own pub. He stated what he thought and that he wanted the Chip men not to touch the Pyrtan women because they didn't seem to mind mixing bloods. They were just like the Terrans on that point. On top of that the man called that half-breed his superior. Working his jaw, Fayn's eyes peered into Illya's. "I keep it 't m'self" he hissed, "But ye not grab 'm again."

It really didn't seem that the man could obey a simple order and Illya worked his jaw in anger. A deep growl sounded and he pointed to the floor. "I am still general and yah still learn proper ways of military. Iron cross now!"

At this point some of the men in the bar jumped up and moved the women to the side. It wouldn't be unlike Fayn to start a fight after a few drinks or to get mouthy and they didn't need them getting sucked into a brawl. If the General decided to attack though, they would have to try to break up the fight. For once Fayn glanced around the room as the massive general bore down on him. He had brought the man to Pyrta for a reason and no matter how disgusting it was to be talked to by a half-breed lover, they needed him. Slowly and with murderous glares, Fayn took the position and stood there just to prove that he could.

Illya hated it when men took things to this extent. It was clear that he was going to have to do it the hard way and that meant that if he didn't he would lose respect in the eyes of the men here. Looking at the man for a moment Illya then reached for his own drink and took a large sip and swallowed it before he shoved the man over and watched him hit the floor. "I am still dah general and yah will obey. Dis is part of learning ta fight. Obedience, endurance, strength, and the rest of dah stuff dat yah have yet ta understand."

The others watched the General with a range of thoughts. In part, they knew they were no Reylian warrior or Chippeqouti Elite, but they were just as dedicated to protecting their families as he was. It was slightly insulting to be talked to like they had no strengths or endurance. They were farmers, and that came with the job and a certain sort of pride for their work. The Chippeqouti General clearly thought they were all as ignorant as Fayn could sometimes make them sound. Slowly the room began to empty, some of the men gave Illya respectful nods, others ignored him. One of the last walked up to Fayn, casting him a disappointed look before nodding to Illya. "Ye teach an we follow. Just remember not all of us are like the man in front of you." With a final nod, he left with his hand on his girl's arm, ushering her out of the door.

When one of the men cast a small apology Illya responded, but never took his eyes of Fayn who was glaring at him from the floor. "Each man make name for himself. Yah prove ta be more and I treat yah as such." As soon as the pub was emptied Illya spoke to Fayn again. "Yah fortunate dey dun stay ta watch yah humiliation."

The man understood this point and didn't reply as he left. The work of the hands earned what it earned. Fayn's arms trembled with the effort of having to hold them up as he kept his eyes firmly on the Chippeqouti General's in front of him. His muscles were screaming, but he stayed locked in. He shouldn't have warned the general at all and let the man go walking around with his half-breed cohort. To some people that would have been humiliation enough in return. Finally, his back wavered and a twinge of muscle sent his arms falling slack to his sides. "M' humiliation," he panted, "Ye enjoy, I'm sure."

Sipping on his drink Illya watched as the man slacked. "Yah have 2 more minutes." He didn't really care what the man was saying at this point. Blandly he continued to sip at the beer and finished it off and then pushed it across the counter and asked for more. "Drop 3 shots in et." The bartender simply nodded and mixed the drink for Illya. When the man's time was up Illya slid his beer toward him. "I dun enjoy punishment of meh men. Et jes means dat dey are nut fit for duty."

Fayn plopped back into his bar stool beaded with sweat an d took up his mug, downing it in 4 good gulps before setting it back on the bar stool. As disgusting as he found the man's affinities for mixed bloods he made a point that couldn't be argued about. "Aye," he nodded. "Teach what ye will." So long as they stayed away from his pretty wife and daughter, what the man slept with was his own business.

*******************************

Illya could still feel his back twinging from the days of work part of him wondered if there was a pleasure house where he could get his back worked on a little bit. Even if it would make him a few minutes later he knew that Kalizda would understand. Then he could take care of the dishes and she could get herself to the pleasure house to get a little massage to help with her injuries.

This town was large and a bit confusing. There wasn't a lot in the way that would indicate a pleasure house. They were instrumental parts of society and Illya had thought that it would be much easier to find. Finally he decided to ask one of the men walking the street where to find the pleasure house. "Ehm...excuse meh." When the man turned toward him Illya posed his question, "I find pleasure house where?" The stranger almost seemed a little embarrassed to tell him where the pleasure house was. It seemed odd. There was no shame in admitting that one had pains that needed to be relieved. "Tank yah." Waving at the man Illya started down the alley way and then cut to the left. He had another two blocks to walk until he came to the red painted house.

The Keareleans must have thought that a pleasure house was shameful if they hid it in the far back streets. Somehow it didn't seem right to make those that were possibly suffering walk so far to get help. They should have realized that there was no shame in injuries. Pushing the door open he saw a woman wearing only a shred of clothing standing behind a counter with a book open. "What can I do for you?" Gnawing on a piece of gum she stared at the tall handsome stranger. There had been some rumor of the Chippequoti and she eyed him. Looked about as they'd been described. Maybe they would be good paying clients.

"I need massage." Illya looked at the woman for a long moment while she just continued to chew whatever it was in her mouth. "How much?" She had to be one of the least helpful people he'd met in the business.

"Depends on what you want. Full service?" The woman stared at him for a moment. It seemed he didn't know what he was doing or maybe he was trying to drive the price down. "I don't have all day and I'm not dropping the prices. Pay up front like everyone else. Now what do you want?"

Illya licked his lip and he nodded. "Fine." Pulling out a handful of credits he flopped a good sum on the counter. "I want a full body massage and I want a man ta do et. Women not strong enough." He noticed the woman's eyebrows raise slightly. "Ets nut enough?" Feeling a little irritated he looked the woman over as she gathered the credits and then shoved a small sum back toward him. "Keep et, yah look like yah need new clothes."

The woman stepped out from around the corner with a smile on her face and led him down the hall. "Been a while since we've had a customer willing to pay the price." She had taken a little off the top for herself and still got the extra for 'new clothes.' Stopping outside a small door she pushed it open. "Garret you got a customer. Treat him good." Brushing past the customer she couldn't help thinking he was too fine a specimen to be interested in other men. Even if she'd seen her fair share of men that one was good looking. Probably wasn't too bad in bed either. Money and a little commission for herself wasn't too bad. No complaints since she made a few credits and didn't even have to work for it.

In a way the pleasure house here was unusual. Everyone in her culture liked doors and privacy. He wasn't in a large communal room with others on their beds and there wasn't any towel, but it was only him and the guy giving the massage. Worst part about it was that the place didn't even smell clean. They really needed to put some of that money to use, or perhaps the city taxed them too heavily? Obviously healthcare was not a priority with these people. At least the worker looked clean and he wore a robe.

It was no wonder to Illya that Kalizda was not healthy as a child and it made him glad that she had the Ehaui when she gave birth. Since there wasn't a towel to wrap around his waist Illya left his boxers on and gingerly laid face down on the bed. Even the bed wasn't that comfortable. "Start wit meh shoulders and work to meh lower back." Since the man wasn't familiar Illya figured it was good to give him a little hint on how to get through this without making in unbearable. Not to mention the fact that he was pretty sure too much pressure on the lower back right now would send him through the roof. The bed shifted some as the man crawled onto it and straddled him. If they would have made the massage table more reasonable instead of using a bed the man wouldn't have to straddle him. Closing his eyes Illya let the man work on his shoulders. Didn't feel like he knew what he was doing. Mostly it was rubbing, but maybe that was just to loosen him up and get rid of some tension. Illya knew his shoulders and back were tense.

"Aaagh." Illya felt the man's hands reach his lower back and he winced some. It hurt down there and then the man started to go a little further. At first the general didn't know what the man was doing and then he felt him tug at the boxers. "Uh?" Reaching behind himself he pulled the boxers back up and the felt the man grasp his wrist.

"Oh you like to play it that way huh?" The guy tightened his grasp when he felt the man underneath him pull a bit.

When the guy started to pull at his boxers again Illya turned to his side and pushed the man off himself. To his absolute horror the other guy was buck naked and he presented himself in a disgusting manner. Cursing in Quoti the general scrambled into his pants and shoved his feet into his boots. Tucking the laces in the top was good enough for now. Simply taking his shirt in hand Illya started to trip out the doorway in a daze. What kind of pleasure house was this? At the front desk he spluttered a few incomprehensible words.

"That good huh?" The woman nodded and then looked at him for a long moment. "Oooh that bad." She knew Garret didn't really like doing it with other guys since he was more interested in being company for the occasional female client. She sighed. Sometimes she lost money when the guy didn't behave. "Alright." Beckoning to one of the girls she motioned for her to go to the man.

Illya dropped his undershirt and started toward the door with eyes as wide as saucers. The woman just opened her robe and bared all right there. This place was insane! Considering it was only his undershirt that he lost at the 'pleasure' house Illya counted himself lucky. Racing through the streets he ran all the way back to the house. Bursting through the front door his eyes were still wide. He was only about fifteen minutes later than he would have been if drinking took as long as he thought it would have. "Kalizda!" When she came into the main room he beckoned for her to go with him to the bedroom. "I need ta talk wit yah in private." Privacy didn't do much since the volume of his voice carried his entire side of the conversation through the house anyway.

"I look for pleasure house and..." Gulping he met her gaze. "Dah man dere...Disgusting. I uh...." It was embarrassing to even say it. "I didn't know he was naked when he sat on meh." Even saying it made Illya want to gag. "Even dah women jes walk up and show demselves. Whole body and I run. Et es so awful." Illya didn't know if she was upset or not, but he was entirely grossed out.

******************************************

The next morning Illya made a special meeting for all his men. Clearing his throat he decided that it was best to warn them of this particular oddity in the culture before anyone else made the same mistake. "I have important information. Kalizda informed meh dat dere es no pleasure house here. Ef dey call et a pleasure house in Kaerelean lands dey mean et es for illegal intimacy. All Chippequoti know dis es not our way."

With that announcement out of the way he dismissed the men and swallowed again. This society was horribly out of balance. Even if he still needed a massage Illya was going to wait until he was with the Chippequoti back home. At least they would be clean and keep all their clothes on. They weren't like the people here. Since he would just as soon forget the entire incident Illya turned toward Kalizda. "Maybe we go over edge wit gas masks huh?" He walked with her close enough to the edge that he could barely see the haze over the ground. "Yah wanna come wit?"
 
Calysta was dusting off the fluffy red seeds from the back of Rose’s dress. Thomas had taken her to play in the fields which invariably meant the girl thought the few Chip children with them to bust the pods. All it had taken was a single pod thrown to start a flurried war of seed grenades at each other. Rose grinned, quite proud of herself, as Calysta shook her head. “At least you used an empty field. It will help the grass grow for next time,” she said, picking bits out of the girl’s hair. As she preened the seeds out of Rose’s mechanical arm, she wondered how things were going with at the pub. In a way she had been glad for the excuse of dinner and the children to look after. Fayn made her angry, and translating him even for short periods of time was a test of her patience. She had no worries about Illya needing help of any kind, mostly she wondered if the mouthy representative would say something idiotic in his roughshod traders-tongue. "Kalizda!"

Both of them jumped a little with the front door slammed open and Illya came flying through the kitchen. "I need ta talk wit yah in private." Calysta blinked at him and then patted Rose over to the table. “Go sit and Kirit will come get your plate.” The girl obeyed and scooted into her seat at the table, waiting patiently for her favorite warrior to come back from the bathroom upstairs.

Dashing up the stairs two at a time, she followed Illya up to the bedroom trying to think of what he was so panicked over. Had he and Fayn got into a fight? She winced at the thought. Illya could hit hard and the man wouldn’t have much of a chance. When she made it upstairs she found Illya pacing the floor a bit, he sat on the bed and then stood up again just as quickly. It was then she also noticed he was half naked.

“Illya what’s wrong? What happened?” she said, trying to calm him down. His eyes were wide with shock still and it was starting to worry that it might have been so much worse than a fight with Fayn. “Illya.”

Her Chip started spouting off about his visit to the ‘pleasure house’ and what transpired there. While he sputtered out the story, his round eyes kept glancing up at her in disgust and a touch of downright horror. Calysta listened feeling progressively guilty. “I’m so sorry, it’s my fault. I should have told you about that. Pleasure houses are not for massages like that anywhere but on Nuen. You learned that before…in a different way…” her cheeks flushed at the memory his barbershop- pleasure stop, “Anyways, it’s considered a another kind of pleasure. ”

Taking him by the hand, she gently lead him to into the hallway, where Kirit was exiting the second floor restroom. The young warrior gave the General a bit of a wide-eyed look, before catching himself and scurrying down the stairs in silence. Calysta ignored him and guided her Chip into the bathroom. “Go ahead and clean up, yeah? Take your time and I’ll have dinner for you whenever you’re done.”

Leaving Illya to take whatever time he needed, Calysta went back to the bedroom and shut the door behind her. She couldn’t contain the chuckles any longer. In his mind it was horrifying, and she would have been mortified too, but she couldn’t help it. When he came bursting through, she was certain it would have been so much worse. Burying her face into a pillow, she muffled the laughs until she could manage to think about it without a giggle, then went to check on her unfortunate Chip.

Later that evening, she offered to try to rub his back if it was sore, but after a few moments he shuddered and wiggled away, still feeling horrified about the pleasure house. Calysta just kissed his cheek and scooted off the bed to go down stairs. "We'll just put a heat pack on it instead, yeah?"


*****

Once the morning meeting with the men was done, they scattered to go enjoy their day off, undoubtedly avoiding the red painted pleasure house. It was a simple mistake between cultures and while Illya was still highly embarrassed, no real harm was done. Calysta wasn't going to tease him too much about it. His casual inviation to the Wilds disturbed her much more than anything a hired woman...or man...could dish out. He wouldn't know half the dangers of going down there and she counted herself lucky, he thought to mention it before just going off on his own for this trip. "Of course, I'm going with you," she said quickly. Taking up her Chip's hand, a smile spreading over her face. ""You'll need a pilot who can fly you down there. We'll need some equipment too. They should have what we need at the airfield though. "

Calysta lead Illya to the airfield and picked a 2 seated personal flyer, then gave Illya a list of items to pull from the store house outside the hangar. Rifles, ammo, gas masks, sealed-water back packs, machetes, rope. While Calysta waited for Illya to return, she checked over the flyer to ensure it was working perfectly, then went to go file the flight plan in the main office.

Kirit heard Calysta and the General talking about visiting the Wilds. Tikan had spoken of a few forays into the inhospitable portion of Kaereal and the idea of venturing down there piqued the young warriors interest. So, he went to the house to get his equipment, and then went to the airfield to see if they would let him tag along. When he came into the hangar, he found Illya packing up a flyer for the trip as Calysta sat in the cockpit running systems checks one more time. The young warrior walked up and Illya turned to him with a confused sort of look. "Uh, sir. I come t' ask if ye go, t' th' Wilds. Can ye make room for one more?"

Calysta heard the young man and poked her head over the side. "There's only two seats. I would go for a 4 seater, but there's not enough space for it to land safely." Kirit looked a little disappointed but gave a polite nod. "Aye, I understand." Illya didn't seem to like leaving the guy behind though and offered to make room. Calysta gave the two of them skeptical looks. The Chip barely fit into the back as it is and where they would fold Kirit's long legs into the passenger seat she couldn't begin to imagine. He would have more room in the front, but she actually need the extra space to fly properly. "If you two can figure it out," she said, "Just try to keep the arrangements as centered as possible or it will throw the balance off."

Kirit grinned excitedly and then stepped up, peering into the small passenger seat. Considering how big the Chip would be, he suggested they might let him a get in first and let the smaller man find a space to wedge into. Illya climbed into the bucket seat, pretty much taking he entire spot. Biting his lip, he considered what space was left. He wasn't going to ride in the man's lap, but luckily there was a small space on the floorboard between his heels. " I think I can fit there." Kirit stepped in to the small spot of floor board one foot at a time. It was barely enough for a child, but with a few feats of flexibility, he folded into the floor board. With his knees up to his chin, and his hands in the air, the young warrior realized that there was only one place to set his arms. "I uh...sir...I need a place t' put m' arms..." Cringing, Kirit slowly lowered his elbows over Illya's knees, sticking his arms over the man's legs. Feeling awkward, the young warrior felt the need to assure his commanding officer of a few things. "Ye don't need t' worry, sir. I don't like men either."

******

"Make sure your masks are on and sealed," Calysta said through the radio com. They didn't want to take any chances that the flyer cabin wasn't sealed properly and leak deadly gas into the cockpit and passenger dome. Adjusting her mask one last time, she eased off the throttle and they sank into the swirling mist. At first all that anyone could see was hazy cloud cover. It was so think that it took her reading the precise points on the navigation screen to ensure they were level and on course. As they took their gradual descent the canopy of trees appeared below. The jungle was so thick that the ground was swallowed by the vegetation entirely, swathed in a healthy coating of more poison gas. She could hear Kirit sigh, because he couldn't see much of anything stuck in the floor board. After about 30 minutes at the easy cruising altitude, a large mountain appeared in the distance covered in green jungle save for a few bare spots. A few floating islands tethered by thick vines surrounded the mountain and Calysta guided them through the sky easily.

The harder part was the landing. Calysta had landed here before, but it didn't make the task any easier. She would have to bring them down precisely where the bare spot began in order to give them enough room to stop before plowing into the trees or pitching them off the cliff. "Hold very still," she instructed the men in the back. She didn't need any shifts in the weight back there. With a deep breath she lowered the landing gear and flipped up the dampeners, gliding them along the uneven terrain until they came to jerking halt right before the treeline. "Not too bad for my first time out in awhile," she grinned through her mask. Taxing them backwards, she made sure that the flyer would be ready to go at the end of the bare spot in case they needed a quick get away.

"Alright, if the gas clouds lift even for a minute, don't drink or eat anything while we're here," she told them, as she lifted up the top "Most of its poison and the things that aren't are camouflaged to look like the things that are. It's just easy not to taste anything at all."

There were a few grunts, grumbles, and one very distinct "OW" as the two men fumbled out of the passenger seat behind her. Kirit tumbled to the ground first and started stretching out his shoulders and back all while looking around with wide eyes. Illya managed to unfold from the seat and landed onto the bare rock, causing a swirl of mist to puff away from him. "Let's gear up then," Calysta said, as she went over to the small cargo hatch at the nose of the flyer. Once everyone was equipped with a machete, rifle, and rope, she lead them into the tree line. As strange as it looked, there seemed to be a small path that twisted through the dark forest. It seemed strange that there would be anything even remotely like a path in an uninhabited land and as they trekked deeper, the air became heavier with humidity. The poison gas almost clung to their clothes. Through the mist, Kirit could make out strange shapes intermingled in the trees. A timber, a rough hewn stone. There were even rusted pieces of of metal poking between mossy spots on the ground. The more he thought about it, he remembered that there weren't really mountains in the Wilds either.

"Kalizda, I didn't think th' Wilds had mountains," he commented, trying to figure out if he had missed something.

Calysta heard the question through her com-link insider her gas mask, "That's because it doesn't. We're standing on the ruins of what once was Hyrole."

Kirit's head snapped up in surprise. "Hyrole...one of the lost continents."

"Aye, one of three," she said, "They were destroyed hundreds of years ago in the last Great War. It was one of three continents to be entirely broken by the separatist fleet. Once the ore that repels Kaereal's core is broken apart enough, it remains in the sky but all other pieces fall away, taking everything else with it. We're standing on what once was a city of thousands over taken by jungle."

The young warrior ignored the goosebumps running over his arms at the idea of walking over Hyrole. They were essentially standing on top of a massive grave yard. There were a few more signs of civilization peppered through the trees, they even came across half a house, turned on its side and filled with massive flat bugs who decided to make their nest inside. "Don't get near them," Calysta warned, "They spit poison at their prey. Get it on your skin and you'll die over the course of 3 days or so. " As they went further down the face of the 'mountain' the jungle began in earnest. The trees grew impossibly tall, and more than 4 meters in diameter in some instances, swathed in ferns and all manner of moss and vines.

Calysta drew her machete and started hacking at the vines to cut a path, purposely avoiding the thick, yellow ones with blue stripes flowers. Those stretched everywhere, some as thick as sewer pipes along the ground. Illya stood beside her, slicing away but he was edging to close to one of the yellow ones. Grabbing his shirt, she tugged him away from the vine. He gave her a confused look and she shook her head. "Avoid touching or stepping on the yellow vines." Even Kirit paused at the order, tilting his head to the side. "The juice inside is acidic and..." she held out her machete at arms length and tapped the nearest yellow one. Immediately vicious looking spikes over two inches long popped up all over the plant. The flowers began to writhe, looking for whatever animal had triggered their defensive and hunting system. "Once you're caught, the acid breaks you down and the flowers absorb what they want. There's a few more plants with similar properties in here so, if it looks pretty, its best not to touch." If they were lucky, vicious vines were the only thing they would have to deal with. She didn't like the idea of facing a tyrei. The cat-like creatures could be as small as a skimmer or as large as a transport depending on the area and age. Their mossy green fur and stripes kept them hidden in the tree tops where they could stalk their prey easily, then strike when it was best. Running into one of them was not on her list of things to do on this little adventure into the wilds. Despite that fact, she was still excited to be going out and about again with Illya, occasionally she would glance over to him, but it was hard to tell if he was liking the trip or not considering they were all wearing gas masks.

They cut through the jungle as the evening wore on and came to less dense portion where they discovered a crash site. The old transport flyer was at least a few hundred years old, but its metal frame and bulkheads still remained largely intact, though the constant humidity from the gas had caused mossy flowers and rust to take over most it. "It's an old transport, probably had some sort of engine failure between Pyrta and Hyrole," she Calysta said before carefully picking her way through to the long forgotten craft. She poked her head into the open hatch and found nothing but more vines. Any human remains had probably long been carried off. There were however, some Eoyn birds nest in the decrepit cock pit chairs. Calysta picked up the speckled eggs the size of foot balls and grinned at Illya who was ducking into the doorway. "These are a delicacy. Think the men would like some omelettes?"

********
"Papa Thomas! Look at this!"

Rose came running into the kitchen with an old, yellowed book in her hands and a toothy a grin. Thomas glanced at the title and realized she had found the book at the bottom of the Christmas box. He had sat the girl to work pulling out Christmas decorations and she had been excited about the task. It had been a long time since she'd had a proper Christmas and Thomas couldn't wait to give her one again, just like she would have on Terra. "Ah, the Nativity Story," he grinned, "This was mine when I was a kid." It had been left behind in the house where his mother lived, after she died, he had taken his what would be his last visit to Terra for a long time and retrieved a few of her things. He had forgotten the old book even existed.

Rose insisted that he read it to her, so Thomas shuffled into the living room which was filled to the brim with Christmas decorations now, and sat his granddaughter down on his knee. "Alright, I'll read it if you can help me. You remember a few Terran words right?" The binding nearly fell apart when he opened it, the old pages cracked and became loose but he turned the first page anyways. As he read, Rose became very still, looking at the pictures, occasionally asking questions about where the story was happening, who Joseph and Mary were, and why the angels talked to them. When the story came to an end, Rose's eyes were a little round and she tilted her head up to him. "Santa Claus wasn't in this one," she said, thoughtfully, " But this baby sounds like he was nice too if he was supposed to help people go to heaven. That's kind of a present."

The comment almost made Thomas pause. He started to correct her, and say that Santa wasn't meant to be religious at all. That this was something even bigger. But he didn't. She had an look in her eye as if she remembered from her life on earth, but that she was also hearing some of this for the first time. Did it really matter that she didn't understand fully? The child had caught on to that much all on her own after a simple story. "Aye, its kind of a present too. A pretty good one I think," he finally replied.

Rose slid off his lap and went back to putting ornaments on the tree, but Thomas sat back and watched her for awhile. She would stand on her toes, and stick each sparkling bauble on with a meticulous and careful plan. Thinking of his Bible, a passage came to mind. "But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

****************

Thomas walked into the market and stopped at the shipping station first. "What ye be needin' today, Mr. Monroe?" Asked the young clerk.

"Came to see if my order came in and to place another," he replied, putting his purchase form on the counter. The clerk took it and gave him another to fill out for whatever he wanted before diving under the counter.

Thomas was halfway done when a sealed package was plopped onto the table next to him. Ye package came right in time, Mr. Monroe." He had no idea of Illya took the occasional smoke or note, but he hadn't been able to properly congratulate the man on Cypher's birth and decided to try it, motivated partially by Henaiah and also by his own curiosity.

The old professor nodded as he finished the new order. "Thanks Marah. I'll need the new order by next week if you can."

The woman picked up the form and scanned it over. "Ooh Turkey. Must be that time of year for ye, yeah?"

He started to reply when a voice called out across the store in Kaerelean. "Thomas Monroe, been awhile since I've seen you around." The old professors stomach turned hard and he turned to see Fayn sauntering toward him. Or at least attempting to. He was moving a bit stiffly, with his stocky shoulders jerking him forward. Fayn had been a fixture in town for as long as Thomas had been living on Pyrta. The man had gotten into office and that was as far as his ambition propelled him. He was happy to use what little power he thought he had to make himself look strong. Thomas had found that out shortly after moving to Pyrta with a toddler Calysta.

"Aye, for you that's a good thing. Don't want to get to close," Thomas replied.

Fayn came a little closer and surveyed Thomas. "Your...half-breed daughter's husband caused some trouble at the pub last night. Got rough and had to be talked down. "

Thomas scratched at his beard, not altogether concerned. Illya could be rude and forceful but he doubted it went unprovoked when it came to dealing with Fayn. "You look fine to me." He wasn't going to point out that Illya was there as a favor to Pyrta just yet.

Fayn worked his jaw and leaned against the counter top. It was usually easier work under Thomas' skin. "That's not all...he also got pants down at the Dewdrop right after clearing out the pub. He hired a man. Apparently, his tastes wander further than just the want for mixed-bloods."

With a deep breath, Thomas tried to calm himself down, though his fists were starting to clench. Illya wouldn't go to a whore house if he knew what it was, and he sure as hell wouldn't hire a man. As much as he wanted to deck the man, Henaiah had asked him not to interfere. There were other ways of dealing with him. "And how do you know that? Heard it right from the owner's mouth, huh?" The representative narrowed his eyes and glanced away, clamming up for a moment.

"Ah not wanting to admit to your own tastes, I see," Thomas continued, his fists shaking, "Frankly, it's none of your business what my daughter and son-in-law do in their spare time. Now if you're done wasting mine, I have things to do."


****************

Thomas found Illya in the kitchen finishing up the dishes after their dinner. He had been into town earlier and brought back a little something he'd hoped to have shared with the man earlier, but with all the moving and the simple lack of places to buy what he wanted, there had been no chance. Straightening out his knee, Thomas cleared his throat and started off even enough. "Ah, dishes are done enough, join me on the back patio for a minute, yeah?" With that said, he opened the back door and slipped outside to the cobbled stoned square that served as a patio for the enclosed back yard. The bear was swatting at the left over omne fruit dangling from the tree while Calysta's lion-sized cat was perched in one of the lower branches. The day light had faded almost completely though, so he flicked on the porch light and settled into the chair. When Illya emerged from the door, Thomas gestured to the other seat. "Sit with me awhile." While Illya decided if he would or not, the old professor unwrapped the package he brought from the store very carefully, revealing 2 hand rolled Terran cigars. "Do you smoke at all?"

Kalizda's father had come to visit and Illya finished the dishes before joining the man on the back porch. Since it seemed the man wanted to talk Illya didn't mind. Thomas wasn't such a bad man and he didn't mind the company from time to time. When he sat down the man showed two strange objects and Illya shook his head. "I never smoke before." Not that he wasn't willing to give it a try. So far as he knew Kalizda's father didn't have any evil vices or anything that Illya should have to worry about. If he was smoking it was probably not harmful to the body or mind.

"I rarely do myself," Thomas replied, as he clipped the end of the first cigar and handed it to Illya, before starting work on the second. "It's a bit of a Terran tradition for men who have just had a baby with their wives. A celebratory moment just for the father and his friends." With the second cigar clipped, he grabbed up a match book on the table and motioned for Illya to bring his cigar over to be lit. "These were imported from a special little island on Terra. And if you've never smoked one before, the trick is not to inhale. Just taste the flavor and let it go." Illya's cigar lit, giving off a sweet, but also peppery smell and Thomas struck another match to light his own. Once the end was glowing, he stuck it between his teeth and gave the roll a nice puff.

The trick was not to inhale. Illya tried to remember that and he breathed through his nose and out his mouth. Mostly he wasn't getting the flavor, but Thomas had to be breathing in because he was blowing smoke. It seemed that this was some sort of tradition and Illya didn't mind it . In a way it was relaxing to sit on the porch with a cigar. Forgetting the rule momentarily he breathed in and took the cigar out of his mouth to cough. Eyes watering he replaced the cigar and made a few more breaths before mistakenly breathing in again. "Burns a little."

Thomas could tell the man had inhaled and tried not to chuckle. He'd figure it out eventually. It was strange to think this man was the same, and yet slightly different that the one he had met on Uria that day to negotiate. Between Calysta, and admittedly, Henaiah along with the man's memory loss, he had decided to give the man another try. So far, he had been impressed by how he had cared for his daughter, Rose, and the newest addition to the family. "Aye, you'll get the hang of it," Thomas said, taking another puff and letting the smoke out in little whispy rings. "I heard something interesting while I was at the store picking these up today, by the way."

While Thomas was busy rocking away and not paying attention Illya took the cigar out of his mouth and let it hang away from his face. He didn't like it that much and he was pretty sure it was going to leave a horrible taste in his mouth all night if he didn't give himself some kind of break from it. Sticking the cigar back in his mouth he hoped that Thomas hadn't noticed it was missing and he glanced at the man. "Oh? What yah hear?"

Thomas sat back in his chair and propped his elbows up on the arms, to tab off the ashes from his cigar. "Well, the first thing I heard was that a Chip had visited the pleasure house on the back alley," he said thoughtfully, "And the second thing I heard was that he requested a male. As it is, most folks know everyone else around here."

"Oh...." Illya kept on rocking and he tried not to look at the man. "I'm pretty sure dah Chip onleh meant tah have a massage." What they considered a massage almost made him cough again while he played with the cigar in his mouth. "Chippequoti uh...Dey dun take ta sex except wit agreed. I know about dis story."

Thomas chuckled and took another long puff of the flavorful tobacco. These were better than the last imports he'd brought and he was glad they were decent enough to be share this time. "Aye I'm sure he found more than he bargained for since this man happens to be very much devoted to his wife. Though he's got quite the reputation around town, it will fade in time. They'll get bored and move on just like when I first brought Calysta home. There are a few other things he should probably know about town though, hm? Feel like listening and letting him know about them?"

By the way Thomas was talking about it Illya had a feeling that the man knew. It wasn't as though he was going to get away with no one knowing it was him. By now they all probably knew it was him. With a sigh he responded. "Yah might as well tell meh what else ta watch out for. Pretty sure yah already know et was meh." Taking the cigar out of his mouth again he shook his head. He still couldn't figure out for his life why they would make pleasure houses like that.

Thomas couldn't help but give the smallest of chuckles before sticking the cigar into the corner of his mouth. "I imagine you know what a pleasure house means around here now. You should know not every man partakes and it's usually not looked well upon to go there for company. Chip man or not. If you see games or gambling, they'll be betting credits and not work hours, so don't expect that. If you see anyone wearing blue, which I hope you don't, give them a little space on the street and a polite nod if you can. It will be remembered and appreciated later. I'm sure you'll also noticed a bit of an attitude as far as some of the locals, particularly since you've had to deal with Rep. Fayn."

How the man could laugh about it Illya could see, but coming here just to say that was a bit obnoxious. On the other hand it was still good to know some of the other details. Illya remembered the part about blue, but the gambling was something entirely different. "Ah." Nodding some he pulled the cigar out of his mouth again. "Fayn es difficult man. He doesn't want ta learn. I tink he likes self importance too much."

"Aye you're right," Thomas replied, "I always thought so too. A man who thinks he knows it all and in reality knows very little." The old professor took a long drag on his cigar and surveyed the shrinking roll as he exhaled."I was a little like that once and it's not something I'm particularly proud of." Another long moment passed and he let out a little sigh. "Eh, anyways. I'm glad you arent like that. You're....you're a good man."

Illya started to laugh when Thomas went on with his speel and ended it by saying he was a good man. "Ef I thought I know everything I tink dat dis would have been good time to realize I dun know everyting. Now yah tell meh dah rest and I know everyting again." It was a version of a joke and Illya was still trying very hard not to focus on the last particular embarrassment. He never would understand those sorts of places. "Yah have good humor.I tink I forget ta ask yah what dis tree and all dese tings in house are for. Rose says Christmas and dis Santa Clause all dah time. What es dis?"

He chuckled at Illya and his joke. Why he suddenly found the man funny rather than irritating was a mystery to him, but he figured it might have something to do with the fact that neither one of them expected the worst of each other now. When the man asked about the Christmas decorations, Thomas almost forgot that Illya had no memory of ever having the first one in his house 2 years ago. Taking another puff on his cigar, he thought about the best way to approach the situation, recalling what Rose said. "Christmas is a very important holiday," Thomas said, "It's a religious holiday for a faith called Christianity. Christians, like me, recognize it because on this day, our God was born in a mortal form to give us forgiveness so that we may join him in paradise forever after we die. "

"Hmmm." Illya nodded after a long moment. "I am nut Christian." Quietly he sat for a long moment and continued smoking. "What yah do on dis holiday?" He was curious, but also feeling very cautious of such activities especially if they were going to happening here. So far as he could tell that was what it looked like.

"Aye, you're not," he said evenly. It was natural to be curious about what went on with the holiday and so Thomas continued, staying patient. "We will spend time together as a family, mostly. The night before and the day. it's a celebration of giving and we exchange gifts to signify the gift of peaceful, ever lasting life that has been born on the day . Its a good time of the year for forgiveness." He paused thinking of several things he needed forgiveness for just over the last 24 hours. "

Illya nodded and quietly observed the man. "I will tink about dis." It wouldn't be right to suddenly say that he would practice with them for the holiday or that he wouldn't. This was something that Illya was going to have to talk with Kalizda about. Were they even going to be wanting to do the present part. "Gifts onleh come from gods Chippequoti tink. Giving gifts es not always good. Chippequoti can give someting wit meaning as a promise, but nut just a gift."

Thomas came to the end of his cigar and put the butt end into the ash tray on the table. The way he spoke about gifts coming from the Gods was an interesting concept. Maybe it would make it easier for him to understand the purpose of the holiday if he chose to try. "Hmm...talk it over with Calysta. She enjoys the holiday, if anything, for the family time." Thomas wondered how the talk with Calysta would go, and as much as he wanted to push the man into coming, he held back. This would have to be his own determination, just like Rose did. An easy silence fell between them, after that filled only with the buzzing sounds of the flytr bugs floating in the yard and the bear making an occasional complaint about the omne fruit being to high to reach.
 
Getting Kirit stuffed into the seat was going to be awkward. Illya wasn't all that sure where the guy would fit and since he offered he had planned to just sit to one side. Kalizda said they had to have even weight. It was a little late and he got into the little bucket seat. Illya would have preferred to just sort of angle himself and give a little space for Kirit, but that wasn't happening. Instead he had to spread his legs and press his feet to the far end of the tiny capsule he was sitting in. It felt even more awkward when Kirit peered over the edge and he could see the triangle of seat left. The guy was practically going to be sitting in his lap.

There was nothing quite so strange feeling as having his legs spread and another guy peering down into the cockpit thingy that they were going to be sitting in. Kirit was one determined guy to fit into the tiny spot he had pointed out between Illya's feet. Instinctively Illya scooted further back into the seat and placed a hand over his crotch when Kirit set the heel of one boot onto the triangle of seat visible. When the man dropped one foot to the floor board it cocked his rear end at an angle that placed it directly in Illya's face. The Chip turned his head away and waited for Kirit to wiggle and squiggle his little ass onto the floor boards. At least the worst of it was over. Illya thought so till he realized the same as Kirit that the man had to put his hands somewhere. The words from Kirit weren't what he was concerned about, but it did bring a slight smirk to his face. "Good else I trow yah out on yah head."

Illya watched the mist turn to more of a sickly haze as they went over the edge of the ground. All these floating islands were a bit of a curiosity to him and he could see the underside now. There were thousands of streams of rocks that almost looked like they were a stretched from the wilds and reaching for the ground still hundreds of feet above. Perhaps whatever repelled them from the ground also had a pull for certain minerals. As they drew near the ground he could hear Kirit sigh. Soon enough the man would get to see what the rest of it looked like. They were barely landed and already Kirit was starting to struggle to get up. Illya slid his hands under Kirit's armpits and helped pull him up. During the maneuvering to get the Reylian out Illya felt him kick the right leg. "Ow." Illay grumbled a little as the small surge of pain began to radiate up his shin and into the femur. It still didn't take much some days to irritate the leg. Once the other was out of the flyer Illya began to work his way out and he dropped to the ground a little more smoothly than Kirit had. It may have been due in part because of the circumstance in which Kirit had ridden all the way to the landing spot in the Wilds.

Almost immediately Kalizda decided to start down some little trail. If it was an uninhabited part of the world Illya was pretty sure that it was a path made by animals. Perhaps he could see if there were any prints or something that might help him determine exactly what kind of creature would live in this environment. He was so busy examining the land and watching out for the tracks that might indicate the wildlife that he had failed to notice that they were on a slight incline. Kirit said something about it and then Illya narrowed his eyes slightly when she mentioned the war.

This wasn't the kind of war that he recalled hearing about. Not one of the Chippequoti. Their war with the Federation was a little newer though wars were not so uncommon with his kind. While he was trying to think of what time frame that would put the Chippequoti at he felt a crawling sensation on his arm. Illya noticed the blue and red bug had begun to try and burrow into his clothing and he slapped it with his hand. At first it seemed that everything was fine and then the bug bit his arm right through the shirt. So far if that was the worst thing that could happen he figured he would be just fine.

The insects were highly unusual looking and Illya leaned in closer to have a look when he heard Kalizda say something about leaving them alone. Glancing at Kirit he shrugged and then continued on. This wasn't the same kind of bug that bit him, but he figured since everything seemed to be poisonous that he should probably get checked by the Ehaui when they were done exploring. Dying in about 3 days seemed to be a bit drastic, but it likely affected her kind and Reylian's like that. Illya began to wander to the side of the little trail to look at the plants. They were also unusual and Kalizda immediately informed him that those were poisonous too. Next trip down here Illya was going to try and get a few samples to take back up top. He wanted to get them to the Ehuai to run some tests on. It could be useful in the coming war. Depending on what they could find or make use of from the discoveries.

Illya let Kalizda and Kirit get ahead by a few steps and he pulled the knife out of the sheath. Holding it out he poked at a lizard that was blended in very nicely with its surroundings. The little creature sprang ahead a few steps and then turned back to hiss at him. A purple tongue stuck out and Illya let out a breath. Even the lizards were poisonous. It seemed there wasn't a single thing here worth eating.

However, it could be a perfect place to create a fall back base at. Somewhere that would cost far too much for the Federation to even begin trying to take. Jogging a little he caught up with Kalizda and Kirit in time to see that they were starting to work their way into the bowels of a ship. While he was inside Illya studied the structure, walls and even the moss that was growing inside. The moss had a strange sort of ooze dripping out of it and he was definitely wanting to know what that was used for. In some ways it reminded him of an old tale that the Chippequoti had. Except the tale didn't take place here. There was a missing city somewhere on the first Quoti and it was a rich city with beautiful gates and many wicked men. As the tale went the gods became angry with the city and had it burned in fire and then washed away with a flood.

Inside the ship Kalizda was showing off some sort of egg and Illya smirked. "Yah sure ets not poison?" Chuckling a little he walked over to where she was at and picked another egg. This one he was curious about keeping and seeing what would hatch from it. If he didn't like it he figured he could always feed it and eat the animal later. "So what kinda symptoms do people get ef one of dose bugs bite dem?" Kalizda started to list a few things and he nodded. "Huh...sounds bad." Absent mindedly he felt along the little bite mark. From what he could tell with a gentle palpitation of the area the poison had been isolated and that meant he was fine for now.

When they were on their way back to the ship and Illya spotted another thing he wanted to catch. It looked like a sort of cat, just small with tusks and he thought it was kind of cute. From what he could tell it was still a tiny one and he smirked. What could be better than having a little tiny kitten to play with Keysha. However, he knew it wouldn't make the ride back with Kirit stuffed into the miniature cockpit with him.

This time Illya decided it would be easier if Kirit got in first and once the guy was curled up into his spot Illya started to awkwardly crawl in with him. It wasn't that much easier and in the end Illya was still just as uncomfortable as he had been before.

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Illya waited till they were back on the main floating island to say anything. "I need tah go see the Ehaui." He had a feeling that Kalizda wasn't going to be too happy about what he did. Pulling the sleeve up on his shirt he showed her a red swollen section. "Got bit by one of dem bugs. Dun worreh I'll be fine." Personally he wasn't too concerned about it. She had described the symptoms from early stage to later stage when they were walking. He'd asked just to see if he should be worried. Since he wasn't showing anything beyond a little irritation around the bite mark he figured that he was fine.

Calysta had just finished washing her hands and started to pick up Cypher when Illya came over and started pulling up his shirt sleeve. When the swollen, red patch came into view over his tan skin, she immediately put the baby back into his crib. "Illya! Why didn't you say anything?!" Grabbing his wrist she slid her hands up his arm to just before the swollen section to inspect it. "How did you get bitten," she asked quickly, "About how long ago in the trip?" The angry bite was already starting to ooze a little and it was only going to get worse.

Rubbing his chin he shrugged. "Eh...I dun remember when. Probably after yah showed us dah plants." It was pretty early on. "Dats when I asked yah what I should look out for eh?" She probably didn't know he was asking because he was bit. "Anyweh I take mehself ta see Ehaui and dey jes clean et up. I'll be fine." Of course there was still the question of how and he grinned sheepishly. "Oh I tink dat dere was someting fall out of tree on meh and I slap et. Didn't know et would bite meh arm when it was dying."

Why did he always keep the important things to himself? Now, he was bitten. If it wasn't caught soon enough it would kill him and he was just talking as if it were nothing. She had even described what would happen and he had still failed to mention it. "That's nearly 6 hours ago! It should have been looked at right then!" Taking his hand she started leading him toward the door with her heart pounding in her throat. There wasn't any time to waste with this sort of bite and they were far against the clock now."The Ehaui can treat you but they'll need the anti-venom from the Pyrtan wards to get the poison out of your system." As she started down the stairs with Illya in tow, Thomas glanced up from the couch. "Where are you two off to now?"

"Ets nut so bad." Protesting the whole way he followed her down the stairs while Kalizda got that wild look in her eye. Obviously he wasn't going to be getting to relax any. He was going to just go see the Ehaui, but figured she would like some explanation for why he would be gone for so long, just in case it was complicated. Thomas looked over at them and Illya shook his head. "She tinks I'm gonna die. I bit by many poisonous tings. I'll be fine."

Thomas started to ask but Calysta didn't even give him a chance as she hauled Illya out of the door. "Watch Cypher for me please, dad. Bottle in two hours...theres 4 already made in the fridge. We'll be back." With that she pulled Illya through the front door and toward the ship. Her eyes widened when she realized what the man had said. "You said many poisonous things? How many bites do you have?"

Thankfully walking with Kalizda was semi leisurely even though she was panicking. When she looked up at him with those wide eyes he frowned. "Oh nut all today. I tink jes one. I mean I bit by man poisonous tings in meh life. Snakes, bugs, lizards and I still here. Yah dun have to worreh. Chip bodies deal wit poison different."

"Those are much more powerful than just a snake or a lizard," she replied flatly, "And I'm not taking any chances." Calysta ushered him into the skimmer, cranked it, and started taking them toward the ship where the Ehaui doctor had opted to stay. While she drove them over the fields of stubby, harvested grass her hands fumbled with the radio until she managed to call the Pyrtan Hospital ward. The nurse on the other end was a bit lackadaisical in her responsiveness but she finally started a Pyrtan doctor on his way with the anti-venom to the ship. "We'll meet you there, yes..yes...thank you." Her fingers fumbled over the power button until the radio clicked off and she kept glancing over at Illya. "Hoe do you feel? Any nausea? "

She was panicking and there was no reason to. Illya sighed. "Kalizda I am fine. Yah worreh too much." No matter what he said she kept right on with her process of what she thought he was going to be needing. According to her little time frame he should have already been getting streaking up his arm and all the further it got was a little puss pocket. "I feel fine. Nut sick, nut tired, nut thirsty, no symptoms except the puss." By the time they reached the ship Illya was starting to get annoyed with how insistent she was that he would need the anti venom. Walking into the med bay he laid down on the bed and pulled the sleeve up for the Ehaui to see. The doctor looked him over and sighed. "Oh that's it?" Taking out a scanner he sighed and shoved a needle underneath Illya's skin. "Just a little bone boost and some blood cleansers. I'll lance the pocket and pull the venom out." Wiping the arm down with iodine and then a mild anesthetic he cut the arm open where the puss pocket was and he pulled it open to show a literal pocket that had formed around the damaged tissue. Pulling it out he dropped it into a biohazard bag and then put two stitches in to close the wound again. "There we go." Running another scan he looked over at a wide eyed Kalizda. "He's good to go. Just make sure you have his medication on hand in case he seizes. Otherwise he'll be fine in a day."

Illya sounded irritated, but she didn't care. He didn't understand what those things could do and she didn't want it to happen to him. She watched as the Ehaui just went about his business per usual and lanced the wound after cleansing it. She had never seen anything like it. The poison should have been oozing, draining out of his arm. Instead, the doctor removed an almost hard sac of venom from his arm. It was as if it had all stayed in one place rather than spreading through his system. "How?" she asked, her hands shaking.

The Ehaui looked at the woman and shrugged. "It didn't hit a main artery. Even a small blood vessel would have made it more complicated, but not difficult to fix. If it bit a main artery he would have passed out or had heart attack." When she looked as though she didn't understand he took a deep breath before explaining. Chippequoti body try to isolate what it considers poison. Somewhere like this is easy. If it was a main artery it would have still isolated, but then it would create blood clots or loss of blood to an area of the body. Those are much more difficult to remove and sometimes patient dies anyway even if we get them here early. Their body works very fast. Now before you go do you have medicine at home?" Illya looked at the doctor and scowled a little, but shook his head. "I should have figured." Wandering out of the room the doctor collected a little box with several mini vials and then two different prepared shots. Handing the box to Kalizda the doctor explained briefly. "If he has a seizure over 2 minutes give him a vial. If he doesn't stop or starts into another seizure only a few minutes later give him the shot and then come get one of us. Don't worry it isn't because of the bite. I just figured he didn't have any at home and this was a good time to make sure he's stocked up on his meds."

Calysta listened the Ehaui explain how his body had isolated the poison. Maybe he didn't need the anti-venom, but what if it had been a small blood vessel or worse? She still would have called, even knowing what she knew now. As the doctor finished up, he looked to Illya and asked about medicine of some kind. When the Chip shook his head, the Ehaui scowled and left the room only to returned with a box of tiny vials and pre-prepared shots. Gazing at the box, she listened to the doctor explain what it was for. Furrowing her brow in confusion, she looked back to the two men. "I don't understand, if this isn't for the bites, what else would cause him to have a fever high enough to give him seizures?" She knew Chips had seizures when their fevers ran out of control, but the doctor had just finished saying Illya was fine.

Of course the man hadn't explained that to his agreed and the Ehaui was half tempted to let Illya try and explain it. Instead he looked at Illya and then to Kalizda. "He doesn't have to have a fever to seize. The general is epileptic and he has been since childhood. Records show he was severe enough that he got the first implant to prevent seizures at 5 and we replaced it during the last brain surgery just to be sure since there was significant damage to some brain tissue." The Ehaui nodded to Illya and then started to usher them out. "I suggest you talk to him if you need to know more. I don't want to be in the middle." The Ehaui already was, but he didn't want to be anymore.

The doctor gave his brisk little explanation and the scooted them out the door, leaving her in standing in the hallway next to Illya with several questions stuck on the tip of her tongue. Epileptic? An implant in his head since he was five? Maybe he hadn't known till recently? Her eyes slowly traveled up his chest to his shoulders, then his face where they met his own green eyes with a look bordering between expectancy and a touch of irritation. "Did you know about the brain implant before the injury?"

To say there wasn't a convenient time to tell her was pathetic and the other part was just as bad. For the most part Illya didn't think about it until he had a seizure. "Yeah, but I dun get seizures vereh much. Et stops most of dem unless I'm sick or someting else happens. Implant makes most of dem so short I dun even know dey happen and neither do yah." Gently resting a hand on her back he started to walk with her toward the door. "Kalizda I dun tink about et most of dah time. Ef I'm sick I do cause I know I'll seize and I dun like et."

He had known about this for forever and he hadn't bothered to mention it once so she could keep the medicine on hand? Illya guided her toward the door with a hand just barely on her back, and she gripped the box of medicine tighter. "You don't think about it? Illya you never told me anything at all about this or tell me anything else. These are the kinds of things I need to know, so I can prepare for them." The idea of him seizing like he did on the Ekram before his bone surgery still made her queasy and it was forever stuck in her mind. He didn't get how it worried her sometimes. "I don't like it either but I needed to know and I would have preferred it came from you, but you still dont tell me things." She walked around the other side of the skimmer to get into the drivers seat and handed Illya the box of vials so she could drive them home.

"What do yah mean I dun tell yah dese tings?" Illya took the box from her and climbed into his seat. Looking over at her he wondered how one event translated into many. She was exaggerating on this and he really didn't know why it was such a big deal. "Yah haven't had meh seize witout reason before. I almost never seize and when I'm sick I know what ta expect and yah know dat too." Rubbing his head a little he grumbled a little and opened the box to sneer at his medicine. As much as he knew he shouldn't hate it he did. Illya never liked the stuff even as a kid because he liked to think that he was fine. Mostly he was. There were occasional events where it would happen, but they were rare.

It wasn't an new debate they were having between the two of them, even if it felt new to him. "Aye, I know that." Starting up the skimmer, Calysta started them on the way home. She noticed he was shooting looks at the box of medicine, which she couldn't fault him for, knowing all too well what it was like to be bound by medications and told you have limits. Waiting for a long moment, she considered how to answer his question as they zipped over the fields, with the wind catching in her hair. "The important things and most recently; possible deadly big bites, life -long epilepsy, and your father's passing." She said it quietly though she doubted he would understand at all.

Somehow he found it frustrating that she named things he didn't really think about and yet they kind of proved her point. "I told yah about da bug bite. I knew I was fine and I tell yah, but yah dun trust meh. Epilepsy isn't someting I always tink about and I dun have problems for a long time except dah oter day." Now he was going to have to tell her that too. "Telling yah about meh dad when yah recover was bad idea. Yah were already in bad health and I couldn't have yah more upset."

Her eyes snapped open to him for just a moment when he mentioned not trusting him and then he went on to tell her he'd had trouble with his epilepsy the other day. Not telling her about his father she could understand far more than the other two issues mentioned. She was sick, and he was no doubt hurting in some ways about it. "Illya, I do trust you," Calysta said firmly, "It doesn't mean you know how your body will react to something foreign like that. I've had to face the hard possibility of watching you die, not once but at least twice now. So, if I'm a little jumpy, well there you go." It was hard to finish that statement without looking upset or revealing how badly he scared her at some points. She pulled into the street and powered off the skimmer, before dropping head back to the seat for just a moment.

"Ok." Illya pushed the side door of the ship open and stepped out. Walking to her side he opened hers and offered her a hand. "We can go inside and get cleaned up eh? Got more drills tomorrow." Once they were in the house Illya took himself to the shower and he cleaned out the garbage can. He needed to remember to buy a bucket tomorrow before coming home. It was so annoying that no one remembered not to waste water and they didn't bother to buy buckets. Wasteful, and for those that used buckets there was hardly a sanitary option available. As soon as he finished with the shower Illya went down the stairs to help take care of the cooking. Kalizda wasn't even done yet and Cypher was happily cuddling with Thomas. That wasn't such a bad thing. The man had graying hair and momentarily he found himself wondering how old the man was.

To have hair that color for the Chippequoti usually meant that you were close to 250 or maybe 350 years old. Depended on the genes mainly. Some went gray earlier than others and then there were a few that didn't really seem to have gray hair ever. At the same time Illya realized he didn't even know Kalizda's age. By his calculations he was himself about 153 now. It felt so odd especially since it felt like he was still 148 or 147. Still he knew that couldn't be true. Kalizda had taken him to the Ehuai and he was in good health because of that.

They were all sitting at the dinner table and Thomas joined them when Illya decided to ask about Christmas. He'd just seen the decorations again and he forgot to ask Kalizda about et. "Kalizda what yah tink of having Christmas here? Yah dad said he like tah spend time wit us. Jes family es all." There wasn't anything religious about eating a meal together. Briefly he frowned and he looked around the room. Something about it felt familiar and he wasn't sure why."I ever come to dis celebration before?"

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Over the next week the men began to complain that it was close to Christmas. It was as if suddenly every man of Kaerleal were Christians. Since it seemed that Kalizda and Rose wanted to try celebrating the holiday too Illya relented and gave all the men 3 extra days at Christmas, aside from scheduled patrols. It was going to be nice to get a few days with Kalizda, Rose and Cypher.

There was still one more thing to do and Illya was a bit concerned about it. Since they were having Christmas as the house in less than a week he needed to know how to properly celebrate it. Catching Thomas outside he waved to him. Wandering over next to the man Illya nodded to him. "I need ta ask yah more about dis holiday. Maybe yah tell meh da kind of tings that are done so I dun mess up eh?" Feasts and such were a big deal and if this was part of Kalizda's culture then it was important to do it right so she didn't have to be ashamed of him. Asking her father also seemed a little more sneaky than just going up to Kalizda and us asking her. It would give away the whole plan if he asked Kalizda what he was supposed to do.
 
After the bug bite scare, Calysta to a wonderfully hot shower in the upstairs bathroom, scrubbing off the smell of the Wilds and ridding her hair of leaves from the trip. While the steaming water poured over her back, she thought of Illya. He had so many leaps forward and had recovered fully, but sometimes when he stepped out the door it felt like the day he left to find Kent. Smiling and making jokes at his little bird never to return as the same person. The idea of it scared her but it was part of their work and what they had to do. Rising her long hair, Calysta stepped out of the shower, dressed in a fresh grey tunic then went down stairs to find her baby boy. When came into the living room, Thomas was monopolizing Cypher and between Rose begging to hold him and Illya holding out his arms, Calysta was unsure who was going to win the prize. "If he's fed dad, I'll lay him down for a nap," Calysta said, as she swooped in. Recently, she had discovered that whenever she held out her arms to someone holding Cypher is was almost as if they bent to her will, handed the little man over. It was an interesting discovery that she used frequently when she wanted to get him back. The only person it didn't seem to work on was Illya who was just as loathe to hand him over as she was.

"There's my boy," she cooed as she she kissed his dimpled cheeks gently and took him upstairs to lay in his crib. It took all of 5 minutes for him to drift off and that was the normal. His little body had so much growing to do, he stayed sleepy for much of the day. With Cypher snoozing, they all sat down to a dinner of spaghetti and meat sauce Thomas had made while they were gone to the doctor. Rose twirled her spaghetti with a fork, making the tangled noodles grow around the tines into an impossibly big bite, while Kirit stared at his plate with the same face of uncertainty Illya wore as he poked around the meat sauce. "It's spaghetti," Calysta told them, "You liked it when I made it before, Illya. I think you'll like it too Kirit."

Kirit lifted up the noodles underneath, with a raised brow and then dared to take a bite. The young warriors face cycled through a myriad of emotions before he finished chewing and then swallowed. "Th' spke'tety is different, but not bad." Truthfully, he wondered if the stringy white bits were bugs. They looked like worms and without the sauce had a rubbery texture that he imagined a worm might have.

Calysta laughed and took a bite of her own spaghetti, before Illya suddenly asked about Christmas. Sometimes it was hard to remember that Illya actually didn't remember some things. Knowing how he felt about gift giving, Calysta gave a tentative answer. "Well, it is a tradition for dad and I. You were with us for one Christmas while you were recovering from the bone surgery. " Everyone seemed to go quiet for a moment as nobody seemed to know what else to say to the man who had lost his memory, until Calysta leaned in with a gentle smile and whispered in Qouti, "This one will be even more fun. We have an even bigger family to share it with."

********************

Thomas was on his way back to Henaiah. She liked to work when it was quiet, so she had stayed in their guests house while he tended to the grandchildren, a task he never minded at all. He loved Rose and baby Cypher, carrying pride and the constant urge to spoil them at every moment he could. The street lamps were flickering to life as he walked, but a shadow appeared beside him. Glancing at up, he saw Illya jogging over to him. "Aye, what is it?" The man was asking more about Christmas which was both pleasing and surprising at the same time. He wanted to start talking and explaining right away, excited to see they would be participating, but thought the better of it. "Hmm...well it starts out on the night before. We'll eat something simple. Calysta will probably bake and we might tell a few stories and family games. Then in the morning we'll wake up and I'll cook breakfast. Then if you decide to join in, we'll exchange gifts." He took a moment to see if Illya was following so far, but kept his pace down the street.

The man was explaining things and so far Christmas sounded to be reasonable. Just some food. A little bit of time to have family games, though he wasn't entirely sure what family games were for her kind. Nodding he listened and agreed with everything so far until it came to the gift exchange. "Ahhhnn..." Words seemed to be cut and lost at that point and he rubbed the side of his head. "Jes a minute. Yah give gifts? Dis es a problem. Yah dun jes give gifts like dat, makes man proud like a god and den he take credit for what nut his tah take credit for. Onleh time Chippequoti give es to help oters in need or tah make promise. Sometimes tings are symbolic of agreement, but never jes gift."

Thomas put his hands into his jacket pocket as they walked, contemplating on how to approach this. After a moment of thought, he decided to keep it light. "Any other time a gift would seem boastful, sure. On Christmas they are symbolic of goodwill towards others, forgiveness and love in honor of the day. There's no so much pride as it is a simple reminder to do those things. You don't have to participate in that portion of course, but I think I will pick up some things for the grandchildren. We always made sure the kids had a little something to enjoy, yeah?"

"Oh..." Illya frowned. He hadn't known that there was such a holiday. All these things seemed to be noble enough and even good to celebrate. If he was going to be part of the other functions of this Christmas celebration then he was going to be in the whole thing. It was best to learn about her culture through experience. "Den uh..." Illya almost felt nervous about this part. "What kind of tings are symbolic of dis day?"

He seemed to be at a loss for a moment, but Thomas just kept walking, letting him think it over. If Illya didn't participate, then the children and his daughter would have something to open up from himself and Henaiah anyways. He was sure the man would probably not want to participate, given how he felt about his false gods but he wouldn't say anything harsh about it since his son-in-law wasnt rude about his own beliefs. The next question, caught him of guard though and he tilted his head. "Well, there's a few regarding the more Christian side I could tell you about, but if you're referring to the gift giving, there's no specific thing you have to give. A gift can come in many forms."

So much of this holiday already felt strange. Illya could accept the part about the gift, but he wasn't so sure that he wanted to know about the other half of the holiday. It felt very strange. "Eh..." Halting in his steps a little Illya looked to the man and then decided to keep walking. Illya was starting to feel a little nervous and he wasn't so sure that he should be talking about this outside. There were plenty of other ears and he couldn't have anyone hearing this. It was very dangerous for multiple reasons to be listening to this conversation. "Yah tell meh more about dis somewhere private yeah?"

Suddenly, his son-in-law became strangely nervous talking about the holiday. As far as he knew, they were just having a general, some what exploratory conversation about it. Nothing devious had been said. Thomas nodded anyways, as they came up to their hosts walkway. "Aye, you're more than welcome to come in and I'll tell you more, or we can talk more on the Eve if you like."

Glancing around the small area he took a deep breath he nodded. "We be quiet eh? Ets uh...." Illya waited till they were inside and he followed Thomas to wherever it was that the man wanted to sit down to talk. Carefully perching himself on the seat Illya fiddled his thumbs and looked anxiously around the room before saying anything else. "I find dis Bible en meh bag. Try reading et sometimes when nobody dere. Maybe yah keep et for meh and I come look sometime. Dis same as Christian?"

Out of all the things he had thought Illya would have kept from his house on Nuen, the Bible he had brought for their household was not something he would have ever expected. Nor had he ever thought the man would pick it up and read it of his own accord. Thomas hitched at his trousers a bit before settling into his chair and giving the man a curious look. "Aye, its the holy book of Christians. A history and laws," he said, trying to keep it simple, "You can always come by and study here or in my old office at your house. You'll find some helpful guides in there as well." Taking a moment, he sat back and studied Illya's face. "Just out of curiousity. What have you read so far?"

Illya adjusted himself a little and he glanced around the room again. He really wished that Thomas didn't speak so loudly and casually about this. Working jaw the Chip looked over at the man. "I dun read much. Vereh difficult for meh." Explaining how it was difficult wasn't really part of his plan, but he needed to tell Thomas one thing. "I send et home wit yah, but dun let Chippequoti see et when yah visit next time. Too dangerous for meh to keep." The look from the other man seemed to inquire why that sort of thing would be said. Illya fidgeted again. "Chippequoti forbidden tah consider oter gods. I remember some I read before meh head injury and I like et, but I can't."

Thomas didn't remember Illya having trouble reading before. In fact the man had done it quite frequently. It was good to hear he remembered some of what he read though. At least the man wouldn't be starting from scratch and he actually liked what he read. A little thrill of victory tickled at Thomas' heart and he fought to keep down his smile. At the mention of the book being forbidden and too dangerous he nodded. "Well, you're hardly the first man studying in secret. Christians have a long history of being persecuted," he replied, scratching at his beard, "What happens if you do read or discuss other religions, if I might ask?"

The mere suggestion of perhaps being Christian was terrifying and Illya's eyes widened, but he listened anyway. It seemed that Thomas hadn't quite insinuated that and he settled down for a minute. "Chippequoti Elders pass judgement because ets bad luck for all people ef one defects. Et es duty for Chippequoti ta turn over anyone causing danger and den break dere back and give dem back ta da four winds." Illya felt a tinge of guilt knowing that bad luck may have been the reason that his father was dead. The four winds were looking for the unfaithful and he had a holy book that was not of their own. "I can't keep yah Bible. Yah have ta take et back."

Thomas listened quietly to Illya, trying to understand. The man had mentioned the winds before back on Nuen and he could only guess they were a point of worship as well as the afterlife he'd thought his family went to. "So, death and into the...uh..winds," Thomas said thoughtfully, "You should know just having to book or even reading it does not make you a Christian. I don't know much about your four winds, or gods. It's very different from my God who offers forgiveness and a paradise for the soul when he calls it home. I don't think simply reading and learning would bring bad luck to any one. It's not technically practicing the faith to do so."

"No..." Illya shook his head. "Yah dun understand. I can't keep et. If Chippequoti know dis I am nut faithful to dah winds. Entertaining dis es same as practicing. Take et and keep dah book. I read et here when I can." Illya knew that logically if the gods were so powerful they would have killed him for what happened with the Bible rather than his father, but he still had a certain level of fear for the gods of the winds.

Knowing what would happen if he was caught reading or even with the book made getting through to him all the harder, but if he got the man to read some of the passages and helped build what was already there, the compromise sounded fine. "Alright, I'll take the book back. You can come by and study on your own or with me if you want. We can't have you going around getting into, eh?"

Finally the man was going to take it back and Illya knew it would be much better that way. "Good den yah know yah never say dat Christmas is holiday of yah god. It es jes about peace eh?" Illya didn't know how teh man would feel about keeping the real meaning a little more simple, but he couldn't have the children spouting those sorts of things out. If they ever thought that Illya said it there would be trouble, but if it was only Grandpa there wouldn't be as much trouble. After all they were given a choice because they were not full blooded Chippequoti.

Thomas disliked having to boil down the birth of the savior to simply 'peace' and keeping things simple for the Chip so far and been a bit hard on his more studied Christian ideas. However, he saw the purpose in keeping the study of God a secret in his case. Sure, there were noble martyrs for the faith all through history but he wasnt keen on turning the man into one. And, in a certain sense the holiday was about peace, the best kind of all. "Aye, we say it is a holiday of peace, which is true. Don't worry about me saying anything. We'll just enjoy the holiday, yeah? I might suggest a few passages to look into if you come by study though."

The Chip nodded carefully and he rose to his feet again. "I tink Kalizda expects meh home. Maybe yah come get book tonight and I study dah passages later dis week. Make a late day eh?" Illya knew that he was going to have to tell Kalizda he would be home later one night, but as long as he told her he figured that it would be alright. "I jes tell her I come ta talk wit yah."

"I'll come by early in the morning," he said, giving Illya a pat on the back as he turned toward the door, "Henny will be home before I can make the walk back tonight. Just tell Calysta that you come by to smoke a cigar once and awhile with me. She wont mind us talking for a bit, trust me." Once Illya had gone, Thomas sat back in his chair and chuckled a little. His daughter would have a shock when Illya told her about coming to visit her of his own volition.

*******************

Training for the next week was hard but had produced some results. Mostly it had weeded out the men who obviously needed more training than the others, gotten Calysta back into proper shape, and kept Fayn too tired to insult them, or say much of anything. When they weren't training, Calysta was getting ready for Christmas. Illya seemed willing to experience the holiday again, and even she was a little more excited than normal. Rose and Cypher seemed to make the day even brighter when she thought about spending time with them along side Illya. They would be celebrating all together. That being said, there was a certain amount of apprehension about the day too, mostly due to the fact she had no idea what to give Illya. He would like something useful, but she didn't want to simply buy something like the first Christmas, though it had been meant as a heartfelt gift. What did he like? Animals...food...books....weapons...exploring...exploring with her...exploring her. Calysta shook her head, dislodging that train of thought. He was the only one left she hadn't gotten something for and she needed to focus on the task at hand.

As she was feeding Cypher a bottle on the couch and racking her brain for some idea on what to get her husband, Thomas walked through the door and started taking off his coat, while juggling a package in his hand. "Hey dad." The old professor grinned at the sight of his daughter and grandson as he shuffled over and kissed the top of both their heads. "Hey sweetie. I came by to bring you this, and to see what you thought about an idea I had. It's been awhile since we've done any family captures and I was thinking now that we can safely go out doors and with Cypher it might be a good chance to get everyone together."

Calysta looked down at tiny Cypher in her arms as he sucked on his bottle, blue eyes staring back at her. They hadn't had any new ones made since Nuen close to a year ago and while she wasn't so much a fan of photo shoots, it would be good to get some of the family together. So much had changed, and it would be a good start to new memories too. "Aye, I think it would be great."

************************

Christmas Eve was spent on last training day for the men before a nice long break. They came back from the fields covered in sweat from having run for several miles, then split of into teams for exercises. Fayn cast her a glare as they headed toward town, but nothing was going to ruin her day, not even slurs from that man. Taking up Illya's hand, they went back to the house and relieved her father of babysitting duty so he could go get ready for their evening out. "I''ll be back in an hour or so," he said ushering out of the door to go meet Henaiah.

While Illya washed off, Calysta flicked through Illya's shirts in closet, passing by uniform shirt after uniform shirt. Didn't he own anything that wasn't a uniform anymore? How had she not noticed this? With a sigh, she came to the end of the rack, discovering a black-collared button down with silver buttons. If she were honest, Illya would look good in anything but he looked especially handsome in black or green. "Hmm...this might work." Plucking the shirt from the closet, she held it up to make sure there wasn't anything wrong with it. He didn't need a shirt with bullet holes or any blood stains on it. A quick inspection showed this one seemed to have arrived intact and so she put it out on the bed, along side his freshly washed slacks, smoothing out the wrinkles. With his clothes set out, Calysta set off into the upstairs bathroom to shower and change into her dress.

It had been a long hot day and Illya stepped out of the shower room after he dumped the bucket down the drain. Kalizda needed to get washed up and they had to take turns to be sure someone was in the room with Cypher. The baby was laying happily in his little crib and Kalizda scampered right in the shower right after him. Wandering over to the drawers Illya pulled out his boxers and socks. Once he had those primary elements of clothing on he was good to start searching. The closet wasn't terribly exciting since it was all uniforms anyway. In a way having uniforms was nice. Made it easy to pick out what he needed to wear. When he finished getting dressed Illya picked Cypher up and started out the bedroom door. "I see yah downstairs!"

She had already turned up the hot water to maximum and was shaving with sweet smelling soap when she heard Illya's muffled call through the door that he was going down stairs. "Aye! Keep an eye out for dad and Henaiah! They'll be here soon!" She worked fast as she could, knowing that they were a bit behind. Rose had no problem putting on her nicest pink dress , but dressing Cypher had been a different story altogether. Her little man looked hand some in his doll-sized brown onesie Thomas had brought him the day before. It made his bright blue eyes stand out even more so, but he had filled up a diaper shortly after dressing him, so she'd had to undo the entire outfit, change him, and then dress him up again. Scrubbing down and rising off, Calysta hopped out of the shower and combed her hair before putting on the silver dress borrowed from Henaiah, it was a bit too bit in the bust and slightly long, but a fancy little trick with a push up bra fixed most of the problem. Making sure to put Illya's necklace on again, she let her hair dry down her back and scurried down to the living room carrying her slippers. When she started down the stairs she caught sight of Illya holding Cypher...in a uniform. Why was he in uniform? They had the next 3 days off and it was Christmas. With a small sigh, she slipped on her shoes and walked over to him. "You're in your uniform?"

Illya looked over at Kalizda when she stepped down stairs. She looked so beautiful. Grinning broadly at her he took a step over to stand next to her. Before he could say anything she was looking at him like she didn't like something and apparently it was the uniform. "Ets what was in meh closet." The Chip blinked a few times not entirely sure what she wanted from him.

Not that she didn't appreciate him in his uniform, but this had been her father's idea and he probably wouldn't want Illya in his military uniform for some family hologram captures and dinner out. He probably just hadn't seen them and gone straight for the closet out of habit. "I found a shirt and slacks for you, they're on the bed instead of the closet," she said, "I can hold Cypher if you want to change really quick before dad and Henaiah get here."

"If I want to change." Snorting a little he handed Cypher to Kalizda. "I dun tink et would matter ef I wanted ta bend over and unlace meh boots anyway. Yah jes get ideas." With an exaggerated sigh he started walking back up the stairs and decided to get wild. Unbuttoning his shirt he put his right foot up another stair and then pulled the shirt off and with the next step he pulled the undershirt off. On the final step before their room he whipped the belt off his pants and gave it a sharp crack in the air. With a hoot he scrambled into the room and shut the door.

Calysta's mouth fell open a little as her Chip stripped down going up the stairs and a red hot blush started in her neck, flashing all the way up to her cheeks. How was it he could still manage to do that? There was the little grunting sound of a throat clearing behind her and Calysta turned to see Kirit who was also pink cheeked alongside her father and Henaiah. Her father's eyes were a bit wide and with a raised brow while Henaiah was biting her lips in the desperate attempt not to laugh.

"Uh, he'll be down in a minute," she mumbled, before turning back to face the stairs.

*********************

It took Illya matter of minutes to come back down, shirt tail tucked in and grinning ear to ear. He looked good in anything, but it was the smile that touched his eyes which really made him striking. Calysta shook her head and gave him a coy little smile before slipping her free arm around his waist. Rose grabbed Kirit's arm and tugged him along the street excited to have an escort when she looked so pretty in her pink dress. The young warrior hadn't brought any clothes that weren't uniforms and so he was wearing slacks that were a bit too short and a dark brown button up borrowed from Thomas. He had no idea what Christmas was, other than the fact that it was a Terran religious holiday. They had decorated for it, and for some strange reason that included a needled tree in the living room window. Was it part of a ceremony? Would they dance around it like Reylian's did fires on the summer solstice? The little pin lights all over the place were no substitute for a real bonfire, but there weren't any pits nearby, as far as he could tell. When Thomas had approached him with the clothes and told him he was invited, the young warrior had given the man a skeptical look. "Ye say th' holiday is f' family. I'm not family." The man had nodded to him and insisted, stating that on Christmas, "everyone was family." With that said, he donned the clothes and joined them on the outing.

They headed out to into the town square where a beautiful Wild wood gazebo had sat waiting for them. "Alright, Calysta and Illya first." Calysta gave her boy a kiss and handed him off to Henaiah to stand next to Illya so her dad could take the hologram capture, putting her hand on the small of his back lightly. "Good, good now the kids!" Her father directed capture after capture. Some were just of her and Illya and others were just of the kids. Rose wanted to take one, holding Cypher. Her baby brother was still very delicate and Rose's prosthetic could be a bit hard, especially if she was swinging it around. With that in mind, Calysta sat down on a bench and picked up her daughter under the arms to sit on her lap. "Alright, you have to be gentle, yeah?" she said to the girl. Rose nodded in understanding and then held out her arms, fingers twitching to gather up her baby brother. "Support his head. There you go, just like that," Calysta said with a chuckle. The little girl's eyes were round as she gazed at Cypher, holding him just like a lady would. Stealing a glance at her Chip, she smiled warmly at him, just enjoying the time together.

With several more captures done, they decided it was time to get one of everyone altogether. Kirit stood by with his hands clasped behind his back, but Calysta waved him over. "C'mon you too, First Warrior." The young man hesitated but then broke his stance to come into the frame. Rose was quick to pull him into the group, and have him stand beside her. "Stand right here," she said tugging his hand, and stomping on the spot. Calysta took her place next to Illya, turning her shoulders to him just a little to make room for Henaiah. Her father sat down the hologrammer and put on a timer. "Timer set for 10 seconds! Everybody smile."

Thomas made the mad dash over to the group, and scuttled in beside Henaiah while the hologrammer started to count down. As it did, Calysta stole glances up at her tall Chip who was trying to hold still for one last capture, and an idea came to her mind. Should she do it? A devious little grin spread over her lips as the last beep sounded. Before anyone could notice or react, she launched up to her tip toes and kissed Illya on the mouth just in time for the capture. Pulling away with pink cheeks, Calysta gave him a shyer smile. "Just an idea you gave me."

************

After finishing up with the photos, they ate dinner on the patio of a tiny spot on the main street while some folks danced on the floor to the radio. Calysta cradled Cypher in her right arm awhile she helped Rose pick something she would like from the menu. "It's a grilled cheese sandwich," Calysta told Rose in Terran, "You remember those, right?" She had to use Terran when describing it because there was no word for 'cheese' in Qouti or Kaerelean. It was a delicious Terran product that neither language had invented label for.

When that was done, she turned to see Illya already ordering his food. The menu was written in Kaerelean and he didn't read her language at all. Maybe he had asked Henaiah or her father to translate for him? "I'll have the nyte beast steak with vegetables," she told the waiter, then she thought the better of it. Getting the steak would require her to cut it with a fork and knife while Cypher sat in her arms. "Uh, you know, I think I'll have the grilled cheese too." At least she could eat that one handed.

While they waited or their food, Thomas asked Kirit a few questions about life on Reylia. The young man was shy but his traders-tongue was much improved, which seemed to have helped him in speaking out a bit more. "Aye, ah m' father was'a warrior an' m' step father a worker in town. He is...ah.." the young warrior stopped trying to find the words, in traders tongue, "...works with numbers instead?" Kirit told them about running the Cyrnalia two year ago and then grinned at Illya. The man may not remember his own run, but it was still funny to the young warrior. "M' run was fast, but ye break m' record, General."

A few minutes later, their food was carried out on a tray by their waiter. Calysta and Rose's grilled cheese came out an inch thick and oozing melted cheese from every side. Illya's plate had a bed of noodles with a brown gravy and two very large, fried meatballs. The meat balls were roughly the size of Illya's fist and were still sizzling from their dip in the buttery fryer as he started to cut into them. When Calysta caught sight of the food, she stared at him in surprise for a moment. Out of all the items on the menu to choose from she never expected him to choose deep fried nyte beast testicles. It was more of a local dish and an acquired taste. As he took the first bite, she debated on whether or not to tell him what he was eating, and he caught her staring. "So, is it good?" she asked,

********************************

Calysta settled in next to Illya on the couch with Cypher asleep in her arms. They had come back from dinner to bake some gingerbread cookies while sipping on eggnog and now it was time to sit with each other and listen to stories by the sparkling tree. Rose grabbed a cookie from the plate on the coffee table and crawled into Illya's lap, wiggling her little shoulders between the arm of the couch and the Chips arm with her feet dangling over his knees. "Read me the story again, Papa," she called as she took a bite of her cookie. Thomas grinned and retrieved thin, worn looking book from the mantle before easing himself into the arm chair across from the couch. Kirit spun on his spot in the floor as he chewed on a cookie, curious to hear whatever stories the Terran had, while Henaiah was content to stay in her chair and sip her eggnog.

"I think I can do that," Thomas said, opening the book. A few pages fell out when the cover crackled open, but he plucked them up and stuffed them back into the binding. "There go, alright...The Nativity Story."

Thomas took each page reading aloud the story of Mary, Joseph and their destined son. It was a child's rendition of the actual tale from the Bible with no real verse to it other than spoken words by angels or wise men. As her father told the story, Calysta's head drifted to Illya's shoulder where it was warm. She may not necessarily have believed in God or son Jesus, but she did like the story. It was peaceful and had a certain beauty to it. When it came to the part about the baby being born, she could help but gaze at her sleeping boy curled on her chest and kiss his tend little head.

"...and the Shepherds went back to their homes telling the story of Jesus' birth for all to hear and be joyful. The end."

When the story was over, Calysta shifted against Illya to see Rose had drifted off to sleep with a half eaten cookie clutched in one hand, and crumbs on her chin. Rubbing her Chip's hand, she nodded to their girl and gave him a sleepy smile. "Let's get her to bed, yeah?"
 
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Illya shut the bedroom door behind himself and he sat down on the bed. For the most part he didn't really care if anyone besides Kalizda had witnessed the event. It was just the fact that he knew it would make Kalizda blush. Now that he knew they were all waiting on him Illya looked at the clothing laid out on the bed. How did he miss that? Stepping into the pants first and putting his boots back on Illya then decided to start tucking his shirt in. Once he had it started he opened the bedroom door and finished tucking the tail of the shirt into the top of his pants.

Having a bathroom connected to their room was actually very nice and before stepping out Illya decided to get some of the headache pills. He remembered one time when Kalizda gave him something. Remembering exactly what the pills looked like was difficult, but he was pretty sure they were roundish and white. Illya ran a little water into his cup and then started to dig through the small medicine cabinet. So far he was finding plenty of stuff for muscle aches, but they weren't bad right now. All he wanted was a little something to ease the headache that had begun throbbing and pounding. Shuffling through the cabinet he found some pills, but they didn't look right. They were red and he didn't remember them looking like that. The pills he remembered were smaller. Finally, he gave up looking in the bathroom cabinet and instead he dug through his night stand and still found nothing. Everyone down stairs had to be waiting, but he wasn't going to head out until he had something for the headache. Illya wanted to enjoy the night and he certainly didn't want to be grouchy.

Even if it felt like he shouldn't Illya pulled Kalizda's nightstand open and started to carefully rifle through her things. There were a few little hair bands, some lipstick, and brushes. At the bottom he found those tiny little pills. Some of them were a pale green and the rest were a light pink. These had to be the ones. Even if they weren't white they were certainly closer than the bright red ones that he'd found in the cabinet and closer to the shape that he remembered seeing. Illya didn't want to take the wrong medicine. Taking one green pill and one pink one Illya quickly popped them into his mouth and then wandered into the bathroom to grab his cup and wash them down.

A grin as big as a banana spread across his face as he made his way back down the stairs. Kalizda still had that hint of pink in her cheeks. Tightening his belt the rest of the way he went to stand next to her. He glanced down at his boots when he saw her eyes drift toward them. Illya didn't see how there was anything wrong with the boots even if he was wearing his slacks. Besides the fact that they were perhaps a little different from her father's shoes. Still they were the only footwear that Illya had. Carefully taking Kalizda's hand he caught her eyes looking up toward his face and he winked at her.

Oddly enough the first thing that they were going to be trying to do was taking pictures. While it wasn't an entirely new concept Illya didn't see the reason. He didn't often look at the pictures and he didn't know why they would want one of tonight. It wasn't like this was a night that commemorated anything. Just to humor Kalizda and her father he did stand still for the pictures and once or twice he gave a horrible grin just because he was tired of standing still for so long. Of course he had to fix the grin before they would take the picture, but it was still fun. For the last picture Illya was determined to behave. They were finally going to be done with all the pictures and he gently rested his one hand on Kalizda's back while she scooted a little closer for the picture. Still he didn't dare look her direction for fear of ruining the picture and having to retake it. Right in the middle of the picture he felt Kalizda nearly jump on him to get to a kiss. Wrapping one arm underneath her shoulders he lifted her slightly. Now that the pictures were done they could finally eat.

From Illya's understanding a family meal was going to be at their home, but that wasn't the direction that Thomas was going. Instead the small group of them sat down in a place that seemed to be serving communal dinners. It was like eating at an Ehaui hospital. They were even given a menu so that they could each eat what they wanted. Squinting at the menu and turning it almost completely to the side Illya finally realized it wasn't the jumbled words, it was a different language.

Everyone else was starting to order and there wasn't much else that he could do about that to start with. Instead the general just pointed to something. Hopefully it would be good. Sometimes he still had a strange sensation as if he didn't quite believe that this was his life. Quietly he listened to the others talk and it nearly drifted into a dream like sequence of events. Thomas, Henaiah, Kalizda, Rose, and then Cypher and Kirit. Out of the six others it felt like Kirit was maybe the only one that was part of the reality. When the food came Illya stared at his for a long moment. It looked unusual, but everything around here was that way. Moments like these felt so foreign that he wasn't even sure that he was actually awake.

Rolling one of the balls around on the plate he finally decided to cut into it and Illya cautiously chewed the first bite. So far it didn't taste horrible, but neither was he sure that he liked it. Kalizda leaned over and Illya shrugged. "Eh ets alright. I try someting new and ets nut so bad." Cutting into the little ball of meat he took the next bite and continued on eating it without really thinking about what it would be. From his experience these people had a strange cuisine and while he preferred snake to most of their meals he had to admit that the food hadn't been dreadful.

**************************************************

The little girl was tuckered out and her mouth was pressed into a slight frown as she lay in Illya's arms. He had been so interested in this little story that Thomas was reading that he hadn't quite realized Rose was sleeping. Carefully working his arm out from under the girl and instead cradling her he worked her little prosthetic off with the other hand and then picked her up. "We get her to bed and den maybe we get to bed early eh?" Being a bit closer to those with a different accent had made Illya start working on his own a little more. Occasionally it seemed that the locals here couldn't understand his trader's tongue as well as he wished they could.

Calysta shifted away so Illya could attend to Rose who was snoozing fairly well by now. As he took off her prosthetic arm, she gently took the abandoned cookie from the girl's other hand and then stood with dozing Cypher cuddled up to her chest. "Aye, I think that would be good." Calysta took Rose's arm from Illya so he could carry her up the steps and up to her room more easily, then turned to her father and Henaiah. "G'night, we'll see you in the morning, yeah?" Thomas came over and gave his daughter a kiss on the cheek along with Cypher and Henaiah bid them a warm good night. Once they were gone Calysta locked the front door and headed upstairs to see Illya just finishing up putting Rose into her bed and heading toward the bedroom. She took a moment to watch them and then smiled at Illya from the door way. "She had a big day, and its only Christmas eve," she chuckled quietly.

Carefully getting to his feet Illya adjusted his grip on Rose and pulled her a little tigher to his shoulder so he wouldn't drop her. At the top of the steps he walked down the hall just past their bedroom and then turned into the dark little room. Illya held her prosthetic arm in one hand and swept along the room with it till he heard it clunk on her dresser. Setting the arm on the dresser and then taking the girl over one step to the left he laid her in the bed and pulled the blankets over. Rose didn't even stir. She seemed so confident and Illya grinned a little bit. Leaning over her bed he kissed her on the forehead and then blindly made his way toward the light. "I tink she like tomorow." Illya could only hope that she would. Scooting out of the room he walked with Kalizda to theirs. Opening the door he smiled at her. "Yah go first." Perching himself on the edge of the bed he began to pick at the laces and waitd till he heard the door close behind Thomas. "Kalizda I tink yah headache pills dun work very well. Meh head still hurting. I take two of dem before we leave for pictures."

Calysta smiled back at him as she walked through the door being held open for her and started to put Cypher into his crib. He had fallen asleep with a fist full of her hair and she started to untangle his tiny fingers from the curl they were lodged in. With a few hairs plucked from her scalp, she finally worked the curl out his surprisingly firm grasp to lay him down. As she covered him with his orange blanket, Illya said something about a headache it confused her. "What headache pills?" she asked, tucking Cyhper's blanket around his feet.

Laying back on the bed Illya pointed lazily behind himself toward her night stand. "Yah know dah little pink and green pills in yah night stand. I take two of dem and dey do noting for meh headache. Maybe dey no good anymore."

Her eyes widened as she whipped around to look at her Chip stretched out across the bed. He'd just taken pills he'd found? Without even knowing for sure what they were? Scolding herself, Calysta shook her head. Of course he had done that and its small wonder he didn't have more than a headache after taking 2 of them. How would she get away with not explaining to him what they were? "Those aren't for headaches ," she said quickly, "Don't take any more. and I'll go get some from the bathroom yeah?"

Illya sat up and he sighed. "I already look in batroom. Dere noting for headaches. Ef dose pills aren't for headache den what yah keeping dem for?" So far as he knew she didn't need medicine. Normally Kalizda would tell him about medicines that she had. At least he thought she would since she told him all about the surgery for her bones.

"They're for me only," she said vaguely as she started to change clothes. Stripping off her tunic, she pulled on a tank top and shorts before walking over to the nightstand and shoving the packets into the drawer. In truth she hadn't expected him to notice them. She'd hid them in plain sight on Nuen for ages without any problems at all. "Dont' take anymore, they could make a man sick."

Sitting up a little more straight Illya wrinkled hsi forehead. "Well what are dey?" He was feeling a little frustrated with the fact that she wasn't really saying anything.

His face turned to a look of frustration and concern at her answer and she could see she wasn't going to sneak out of this question. Crawling on to the bed, she inched over close to him and picked up his hand, massaging it gently. "Well, they keep my cycle going regularly at once a month," she said evenly.

Somehow it seemed this was going to be bad news. Kalizda was holding his hand and rubbing it gently. Illya took a deep breath, he wasn't really sure what was going on. Was the bone surgery causing other problems? Then she mentioned the cycle and Illya looked up at her. "Yah mean yah take dis ta have more babies? So yah have more menstruation?"

He had it totally backwards and part of that was her fault. She'd forgotten he knew nothing about Kaerelean women again. Part of her didn't want to explain it and part of her knew it was going to necessary to tell him. "Well, not exactly. I always have a cycle every month, this just...helps me decide when I am ready to have another baby."

The explanation was very strange. Illya would never have thought that a woman would take medicine for babies. "So," blinking a few times he peered into her eyes. "Yah make sure yah dun have babies wit dis?"

Calysta inwardly cringed, knowing how that sounded to him. He would probably think it was a horrible thing to do. He loved children so much and had made it quite clear that he wanted lots of babies. Curling her fingers around his she gazed back at him and nodded. "It allows me to decide when I'm ready for more, so in a way, yes," she admitted, giving him a shy reply, "I want to make sure we're ready for another before that happens."

"Chippequoti women dun do dis. Et es very difficult for dem ta get pregnant." Illya didn't know what else to say so he left it there for the time and pulled his hand away from hers. "We jes get ready for bed eh? I need ta tink about dis." It was important that he didn't go with a gut reaction and he knew if he did it was not going to be good. Instead he focused on getting to bed and giving himself a little time to think about what she'd told him.

When he pulled away, it was obvious he was angry and she frowned. "Kaerelean women are just different, its easier for us to get pregnant and I didn't want to stress you any more than you already were. It's hard on my body, though I do want more." She felt it was important for him to know that even if he was mad. She wanted him to understand what it was like for her. It wasn't how she wanted this Christmas Eve to go though.

Nodding a little he gave her at least a sign that he had heard what she said and Illya pulled his pants off. Draping them over the hanger he shoved the pants back into his closet. Once he was back to the bed he pulled the covers back and got in. "I jes need to tink about et. Yah tell meh why yah do et and now I tink." Laying flat on his back he turned his head toward the clock. It was late, but he still didn't feel especially tired. When she finally got into the bed he rolled over and put an arm around her. "Yah jes stay close eh?"

Calysta felt bad for having told hin, but she couldn't have him thinking that this was medicine for him or the kids. He also needed to understand. She didn't really know what he would think other than that maybe she was a terrible agreed after all and he didn't want to do anything with her. Resigned to a cold night, she rolled over on her side and sighed a little as he climbed into bed. He was restless for a few minutes and she could tell that this wasn't how he wanted his night to go either, but he was a upset by what she did to want to do much else. A warm hand draped over her suddenly and pulled her close as he whispered to her. "Okay," she replied quietly, "I love you." Then she settled into his chest and close her eyes hiding just a bit even though it was dark.

***************************************************************

The next morning Illya woke up early. It was dark outside, nearly black in the room, and the clock said 4:30am. It was getting to be normal to become restless at night again. Laying in the bed he stared at the ceiling, then at the clock and turned on his side. Last night's discussion didn't quite go as he had thought and more than likely not like she thought either. In a way Illya still wasn't sure what to make of that particular problem that they had experienced. For the most part he wasn't sure if he should feel good or bad about the options she had. Having a baby was hard on her and if she was that regular then she would get pregnant much easier. Perhaps it wasn't a bad idea? At the same time it was very difficult because of the reasons he'd told her. Chippequoti didn't do this. They would never do something like this because it could take years to have a child.

Still it was only right that as the man he make the first move. Kalizda still needed to know that he loved her. Cautiously he lifted his arm and wrapped it around her waist. Illya pushed himself up on the opposite elbow and scooted in a little closer to Kalizda. Even though she was still sleeping she started to move her little fingers up his arm and then she relaxed.

Despite the time it still felt like the issue of the little medicines was difficult to deal with. Was it something that he liked, no. There did seem to be a certain necessary element though. If she became pregnant so easily and it was so hard on her body then perhaps it was the right choice. Not having any kind of intimacy would be far more difficult if she didn't have these little pills. Illya's mind was reeling. He hadn't ever faced this kind of problem before. It should have been an easy answer in the past, but he knew that it would have simply followed tradition.

Gingerly he leaned in a little closer and kissed Kalizda. "I tink maybe we decide togeter when yah ready for next baby eh?" Whispering the words to her he knew she was probably still sleeping, but he would tell her later. Illya was about ready to fall asleep again when he heard Cypher start to cough and fuss. Sometimes the baby did that in the early morning. Carefully pulling himself out of the bed Illya moved himself over to his side of the bed again. Crawling to the end of the bed Illya reached into the crib and picked the baby up with one arm. His first two fingers cradled Cypher's neck and he pulled the child to his chest. Almost as soon as the baby touched his bare chest it started to try and suckle on his collar bone or anything else. Kalizda was tired enough that Illya figured he would take the baby down stairs and get some of the formula to feed Cypher.

When Illya returned to the room he saw Kalizda was awake even though he'd tried to be quiet. It might have been the fact that Cypher had coughed and whimpered, maybe that he had been restless or that when Illya went downstairs he had managed to drop the bottle at least once before he got it to the baby. Sitting on the bed Illya twisted a little bit and pulled the covers over his legs while he held Cypher and the bottle to the little boy's mouth. "Last night I tink a lot about what yah say. Maybe dis es good ting and we decide when ets time for baby togeter eh?"

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In some ways Illya felt both giddy and nervous about the gift exchange. He knew it wasn't for a while yet and he'd snuck his poorly wrapped packages underneath the tree. There was one for everyone. Watching Thomas add a few little things under the tree and Kalizda over the last few days had inspired him to take part. After all if the gifts had meaning it couldn't quite be wrong could it?
 
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Calsyta fell asleep next to Illya feeling a little frustrated, but those feelings were more directed at herself. She knew he was still trying to remember a lot of things and sometimes his mind was still time lapsed to the man he was 5 years ago, but she wasn't a Chippeqouti. Things had to be different for her because of what she was, a non-Chip half breed. It wasn't something she could help though, and there was nothing to apologize for either. Mostly, she just felt bad that it was a bit of a shock to him. Not only that, but she wanted her next baby to be something Illya was ready for too. Cypher had been brought into the world at a time when his father was struggling and so was mother.He didn't even remember the events that lead to Cypher and she wanted the next child to be a joyful and happier moment they could both fully embrace. The next baby deserved two parents were ready.

Sometime in the night a weight settled over her waist. It was heavy, and her brow furrowed from the feeling for a moment, before she realized it was also warm, even nice. Her hand searched for the source, and found Illya's arm hugging her in her half asleep state. Maybe he understood, maybe he didn't, but it wasn't stopping him from wanting her to be there with him. Her hand drifted up his arm as she curled closer, drifting back into a deeper and more comfortable sleep than she'd had in a long time. It was when the warmth left that she stirred, her hand inched over the sheets looking for it again. Where had it gone? She found Illya's side of the bed was empty, the covers thrown back, and growing cool. With a sigh, she opened her eyes to confirm what she felt and then sat up to see the crib empty. Cypher must have woken up and she had been tired enough not to hear his weak little hungry cry. With as much growing as he had to do, the boy always woke up ready for milk from any source. She started to get up to see if Illya might need help after heavy thump came from downstairs, but no sooner had she flipped back the covers, then Illya was coming into the door with baby and bottle in hand.

Calysta wasn't sure if he was still angry with her or not, though he'd held her close all night. Her Chip slipped into the bed along side, cradling the baby in one arm and holding his bottle up with the other hand. Looking at the two of them, she couldn't help but feel smile. Illya held his tiny son with a gentleness that made her heart swell. Cypher began to drink greedily from the offered bottle as her Illya spoke. "Last night I tink a lot about what yah say. Maybe dis es good ting and we decide when ets time for baby togeter eh?"

The words broke Calysta out of her thoughts and her eyes traveled to the man's face, gazing at him intently. He thought waiting was a good thing? Something to decide on together. "I agree," she replied, "It's something that needs to be decided on together. That will require some communication though, Illya. I can't be left in the dark, wondering things." Reaching up, she smoothed the curls at his temple. "We promised to stick together and make decisions together, yeah? So you have to talk to me and help me understand what the right ones are for us and I promise to do the same if you do."

Nodding to his answer, Calysta leaned against his shoulder, melting against him some in relief. "And there's one more thing, when we think we're ready and we are actually successful. Help me announce the baby in my tradition as well as yours?"

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"It's Christmas!!!"

The announcement followed the patter of feet into their bedroom as Rose piled on top of the bed, and crawled up to Calysta's side. She and Illya had fallen asleep laying close with Cypher curled up on his father's chest. At the sound of their excited wake up call, Calysta sat up and tugged Rose into hug, making the girl giggle. "C'mon there's presents!"

"We gave to wait for Papa Thomas and Grandma Henny," Calysta said, kissing her girl's hair, "They'll be here soon."

While they waited, Calysta gave Illya a gentle kiss on the cheek and then took Cypher into he bathroom to feed him while Rose sat on the bed next to Illya. It wasn't long before a knock sounded from downstairs and their daughter launched off the bed, announcing her grandparents arrival. Ushering downstairs with her Chip beside her and Cypher on her shoulder, she greeted her father and then they went to work cooking some breakfast. Bacon and pancakes with buttery syrup made up this years Christmas morning fare.

With a piece of bacon in one hand, and Cypher, who was wide awake cuddled to her shoulder, Calysta sat down on the couch next to Illya. Thomas pulled a chair from the kitchen and sat down to start handing out the presents. Rose's presents were given first because she was almost to her patience limit, filled with excitement. The girl opened the packages with precision though. The first was from Henaiah and Thomas, which was a brand new, Kaerelean style hat with a pink flower on the cap. Rose jammed it on her head quickly with a happy grin, and then opened up Kirit's gift to her. A Wild wood carving in the shape of a tyrei. Apparently, the man had a hidden talent for carving, as the toy was very detailed. Calysta's gift to her was a set of silk gloves Terran girls wore to tea parties. They weren't children's gloves, but authentic women's accessories and Calysta had been sure to order one a size up from the other to fit the Rose's prosthetic hand.

From Henaiah and Thomas, she recieved a new, black captain's tunic and silky silver belt along with a set of chain earrings. Calysta likely wouldn't wear the earrings often because they weren't exactly practical, but they were beautiful. With no need to worry about practicality, she clipped them on, letting the delicate chain loop from her ears. "They're perfect, thank you dad and Henaiah." The two in-laws also had gifts for Illya also. Henaiah handed Illya a small box containing a metal pin designed into 3 interlocking circles. "I wasn't sure if it would be something you could wear on your uniform or not, but its a Kaerelean tradition. The three rings represent trust, bravery, and leadership." Thomas gave Illya an nod, encouraging him to accept the gift and then handed over a bag with a brown tinted bottle inside. "It's not nearly as potent as the stuff your people make, but it's a good Terran cream liquor I thought you might like."

Rose giggled and bounced around the room showing off her new silk gloves and hat for all to see as Kirit opened up his gift from Calysta. The young warrior peeled the neatly wrapped paper back with a delicate touch and then popped the lid from the box. Inside, he found a small curved blade, a replica of a knife style used by ancient Reylians. Kirit grinned and carefully took the razor sharp blade out of the guard to inspect it. "Thank ye, I carry it with m'now." Calysta smiled, happy to see her research had paid off, "You're welcome Kirit, merry Christmas." Now, the tree was bare underneath except several small, haphazardly packages that were undoubtedly Illya's gifts. It had surprised Calysta that he had wanted to participate and she wondered if the time he was spending with her dad might have been a factor in the decision to try. "Would you like to hand out your gifts?" Thomas asked, looking to Illya to see if he wanted to give it a try.

The prospect of handing out the gifts was oddly frightening in a way. Illya handed one to Thomas, one to Henaiah, Kalizda, Rose and then Kirit. For Kirit he had a new pad. Surely the man would like to contact his home at some point. Rose got a pink coat because she was always trying to wear a pink dress even when it was too cold. Henaiah being a council woman was only due certain items and Illya took his time carefully choosing the gold stars to decorate her hair. It would show her status and the Chippequoti found it to be a beautiful practice. Surely it would be admired by others. Thomas received a long range telescope to study the stars and Kalizda got a small cryptic looking box. When she glanced to him Illya nodded. "Et has maps of lands yah dun know yet." He knew she liked to explore and this was something he had kept for a long time. A part of his people's history that he didn't remember, but every Chip knew it well enough. "Someday I take yah dere."

Calysta was helping Rose fold her new pink coat back into its package to hang later, when Illya offered a small package. The paper was crinkled and bent at odd angles, but she didn't mind. Tearing at the corners she peeped inside, to find an metal box of sorts with little designs on it. What was this? It didn't look like any jewelry box she'd seen and it felt far too heavy not to have something inside. Glancing up at Illya curiously, he started explaining what it was. A little thrill ran through her at the idea of lands she had never seen or heard of. Opening the lid, a star chart projected through the room, showing beautiful stars and planets that not a single Kaerelean had ever witnessed, as far as she knew. Grinning from ear to ear, she looked to Illya and then kissed his cheek. "This is amazing. How did you find this?"

Seeing the woman react to the gift was all the more that Illya could have hoped for. "I find et in meh tings. Always tink dat someday I want ta see et." Clearing his throat a little he glanced at Thomas and then put his back to the man. "Maybe et better if I take yah wit meh."

He talked as if he knew something about this places, as if there was a story behind them. Maybe this was the galaxy where the Chippeqouti were from? Her grey eyes scanned his face with excitement of seeing an entirely new place like that, but she couldn't understand why he was acting a bit strange about it. "Someone's got to keep you out of trouble," she chuckled to him, "Is this this where the Chippeqouti originally came from? I'd love to see it."

Illya sat on the floor and he motioned for her to sit with him. "When yah open da box dere es a key." While the map was between them for the moment he then started to dig around in the bottom of the box and it disrupted the image frequently, but when he pulled the key up the images changed and it showed the cities. There were rivers charted underneath the sands and forests full of trees. "Et es where Dark Chippequoti are from. Yah keep dis box safe eh? Very old and et always pass to da son. When we're too old we give et to Cypher." A mischievous grin came to his face. "Unless we get dere first."

Calysta watched the images flash into the hologram. Beautiful cities and forests a growing along side sandy deserts took her to the landscape that was the Chippeqouti home planet. It spurred on questions she'd wondered since their meeting from Tikan and she discovered that the Chips were not from this galaxy at all. Did dark Chippeqouti still live here or was it completely abandoned? The way he spoke, it sounded almost as if they knew of home, but not where it was. "Oh, I think we can make it there first," she grinned, "I happen to be an excellent pilot with a husband who has a particular skill for navigation." She was going put the box away since it was the last official gift, but her curiosity got the better of her. "Why haven't the Chippeqouti returned to their original home?"

Searching her face for a long moment Illya tried to figure out if she was asking because she didn't know or if this was her way helping him create a new memory. By the way she was looking at him he figured that she didn't really know what happened. "Civil war. Dark Chippequoti split into factions and dey fight. Et was in meh grandfather's time. He remember leaving as a little boy with his father and coming ta live here. He pass dis to meh father and meh father give et to meh." It wasn't so much that they didn't know where to find the planet, it was more of an issue of whether or not the fires of the revolution still burned. "Et could be dangerous. Chippequoti do not forget easily."

Brushing her thumb over the box she thought about how old it must be for it to have been created when Illya's grandfather was a boy. It had to be well over a thousand years old. "Civil war," she murmured, thinking about how divided her own people were at the moment. He had mentioned a rogue Chip from their home planet a long time ago driving them out, but she hadn't known it was full on civil war. "Danger hasn't exactly stopped us before," Calysta replied, with confidence, "We'll go some day. Chippeqouti may not easily forget, but time does change things too."

*************
The day continued with games and enjoying the gifts. Calysta pulled an old Terran board game from the closet which she knew Illya would love to play. The premise was to start with a sum of money and work your way around the board, earning more property and sums along with way. Outside deals could be made, and trades could be offered, so it sounded like the perfect way to relax and have some fun. Calysta brought the box into the living room, placing it on the coffee table for her Chip to see as he held their sleeping baby boy. "I think you like this game. It's all about making deals," she grinned.

Her father perked up at the sight of the old board game box and leaned forward in his chair. "Ah, it feels like a hundred years since you've brought out that box. When was the last time we played?"

Calysta's eyes flicked to the ceiling as she tried to recall how long it had been. "I think since I was 12 maybe?"

Thomas' eyes widened and scratched at his beard as he did the math in his head. "Let's see, you'll be 28 in March, so that's close sixteen years ago. Has it really been that long?"

"Don't worry, Dad. You don't look a day older than when we had the last game," she chuckled back.

The old professor laughed, and shot a smile at Henaiah. "Aye, I suppose I still have my good looks."

Calysta started opening the game box and pulled out a tiny drawer of play money. "I think I'll be banker." Glancing up at Illya, she saw he had a strange look on his face. Maybe he was upset that he hadn't gotten his present from her just yet? Her present didn't really fit under the Christmas tree. "Don't worry, your present is just a secret," Calysta smiled to her Chip.


*********************

"I summon dah bird," Calysta chuckled as she pulled the turkey out of the oven and sat it on the stove top. The thing had cooked all day long, filling the house with the delicious smell of roasted meat and now it was time for dinner. The little joke made her father snort a little and shake his head as he started to pick up the turkey to bring it to the table. Illya caught the exchange between the two of them as he grabbed the gravy boat and bread bowl, giving her a raised brow. Calysta wondered why he had been giving her odd looks from time to time all day. Was he still nervous about Christmas or maybe it was because he still didn't have his present? Or was it that the he didn't remember having turkey? Giving her Chip a playful smirk, she knew the man didn't remember that particular instance of their trip to Terra. "You like turkey, though the last time you had it was a bit of a show," she whispered with a giggle. She still found it funny even two years later. Seeing his confusion made her grin a little wider as she explained. "You had my father convinced for awhile that Chippeqouti eat meat to raise the spirit of the dead animal, 'summoning dah turkeh bird' at dinner and then acted like a bird for most of it." With her explanation, Calysta could hardly keep down the laugh rising in her throat and picked up the candied carrot dish. "C'mon, my turkey. Let's eat."

Kirit had never had turkey before but as he took his first bite, he found it one of the best things he'd ever eaten. He didn't like the gravy on top like the others did, but those sweet and tangy berries from the bowl scooped over the meat was delicious. Thomas had called them cranberries, and the young warrior had half a mind to ask if he could have a bowl of turkey bird and cranberries alone. He tried Calysta's suggestion of candied carrots and liked them well enough, though Rose though it was funny he was eating his name. "It's actually Kirit," the young warrior laughed, "But I don't mind Carrot."

Dinner was delicious and passed with all of them laughing and telling stories. Illya got to hear more than a few about Calysta's adventures, making her turn pink cheeked. "She snuck out and tried to climb a tree," Thomas laughed, "On the way down she fell and ended having upside down by her ankle. I panicked when I found her trying to figure a way down but she was stubborn as ever, claiming 'at least the world looked different from that view.'"


Once dinner was over, everyone helped with clean up and it was a speedy process with all the hands on deck. Calysta went to go feed Cypher his Christmas dinner and rock him to sleep while Thomas and Henaiah bid them good night. Rose skipped into the kitchen with her pink skirt flopping at her knees and a toothy grin plastered on her dimpled cheeks. On top of her head sat a big red bow Calysta tied in her hair before the came to look for Wolf. Coming to a stop at father's side near the sink , Rose gazed up at him, eyes sparkling. "Wolf! I have something for you." When the Chip stopped what he was doing to look down at her with mild curiosity, she offered him up a small toy bow and suction cup arrow. "I have your present from Kalizda, but you have to help me find it."

While he was helping with the dishes Illya didn't expect that Rose would be coming to get him. The bright, loud announcement brought his gaze around to the girl and he saw the little toy bow and arrow. Taking the mini toy from he he felt semi ridiculous. "And des es gonna help us?" A smirk came to his face. The bow couldn't even fit his hand well enough for him to fire it. He would only hold it with his thumb and first two fingers if he didn't want break it.

"Yep!" she said proudly, taking up his free hand and tugging him toward the back door. When he started to follow, she brought him outside to the back yard just as the sun was starting to set and pointed to the omne tree where a little bear shaped target waited. "We're going on a hunt, and I'm supposed to help," she told him excitedly, "We have to hit the bear."

Illya couldn't help chuckling as the girl announced that the bow and arrow were indeed meant to help. The Chip walked outside with her and he looked back down at the little bow and arrow. He'd stand a better shot if he threw a rock at it. "How about yah shoot da target for meh?" In part he was afraid that if he tried to use the toy he'd break it and that was never good news. Rose was quite particular about her toys and last thing he needed to do was accidentally break one of her toys.

Rose's eyes lit up and she gave him a mischevious grin as she took the bow and arrow from his hand again. "I can do it, just don't tell Kalizda I helped that much," she giggled. The girl knocked the little plunger arrow onto her bow and drew it with careful aim, her tongue sticking in the corner of her mouth in concentration. Letting go of the string, the arrow sailed through the air toward the tree but fell just shy. "I'll get it!" Scurrying to retrieve the arrow, she got a little closer to the branches and aimed again with the same determined look in her eye. When her mechanical fingers released the string, the arrow flew straight and popped against the bear, right in his belly, making the target swing until it fell to the ground. A small little something had been taped to the back. A little tool for navigation on a ship. "I got it!" Rose danced as she let Illya pick up his prize.

Half the fun was watching Rose try to aim with her bow and arrow. The girl had exaggerated form. It was alright at this age, but he would have to help her when she got older. That meant he was going to have to practice a little more himself so that he could do it semi well in the future. Right now it was barely passable as a skill. While the girl scampered off to get the arrow and try again he took the moment to glance around. So far he hadn't seen Kalizda standing anywhere nearby, but he figured she was watching. After the second try the girl knocked the bear down and Illya went over to retrieve it. "Ah..." Turning it over he found the small compass and charter. It was helpful with some of the digital maps so he could get a more accurate reading. Something that would allow for manual readings on the hologram maps rather than plugging it into a ship's navigation chart. It also meant that to a degree they could keep some maps private and that was beneficial for many reasons. Grinning a little he worked the tape off the compass. He'd have to give it a try tonight and work out some math that he already knew just so he could get used to it and know if he was using it right.

Wolf was taking so long peeling the tape off the compass that Rose was getting antsy. She scurried up to him, the big red bow sliding to the side of her head, and grabbed his hand, pulling him toward the house again. "C'mon! There's more!" Guiding the Chip all the way inside to the living room, they found the space totally rearranged. The couch and chairs were moved to the side, making a bigger space to move. At the door sat two plastic swords and in the far corner was Kirit with another toy sword in his hand. The next target, a cat shaped one, sat on a shelf behind him. The young warrior had been shy about participating in this but Rose had convinced him that it would be fun, and he had a hard time saying no when she was so adamant all the time. Giving the General a sheepish grin, he hoped the man would just play along. "Ye next prize must'be won, Ms. Rose an' General." Rose didn't hesitate to snatch up one of the toy swords and war cry into battle. "C'mon, Wolf!"

Just the compass was enough and Illya would have happily taken himself inside and done some math. It sounded good at the end of a long day. Instead he was drug inside and he was supposed to fight Kirit with a fake sword? If it wasn't for the fact that Rose was so excited to be fighting he would have laughed and just sat down. Instead he picked his sword up and he winked at Rose. "I distract him and yah run around an slash him in dah legs eh?" Of course it was loud enough that Kirit knew what to expect, but that was to be expected. Besides a kid Rose's age didn't always catch onto those little details. Holding the little sword Illya snickered a little and gave a lunge just to see if he could catch Kirit off guard.

Kirit blocked Illya's lunge with the sword easily, but was purposely slow on turning to Rose. The girls squealed as she batted him behind the knees with the tiny sword and the young warrior dropped to a kneel. "Ye have bested me," he chuckled to Rose, as he handed her the prized from the shelf. "Ye make a good warrior someday." Rose grinned and took the prize with a hoot of victory, then held it up to Illya. Taped to the back was a little box of his favorite tea. "There's one more," the little girl announced, "It's upstairs." Without a moment to lose, she ran up stairs and waived at Illya to follow from the second floor bannister. "Hurry!" A bird shaped target was on their bed room door.

Despite his confusion at how all of this worked Illya was starting to enjoy it. This was a very strange way of doing gifts and he liked it. Carefully taking the next prize from Rose he opened it. "Smells good. I like dah tea." Winking at Rose and Kirit he figured he would share it with them later. He couldn't remember if they drank teas or not, but he could offer. It seemed there was another part and Illya wondered what it was. He had some nice math to do and tea to drink while he was at it. Following Rose up to the bedroom door Illya started laughing when he saw the target. "I tink I get dis one by mehself eh?"

Rose gave Illya a some what disappointed look, before relenting. "Kalizda said you wouldn't need help with this one." Remembering her last task, the girl tugged the Chip down a little lower so she could deliver a kiss to his cheek. "Merry Christmas, Wolf." With that done, she gave him a winning smile and then scurried down the stairs to go see if Kirit would want some tea.

"Yah made a good partner finding all dose tings." Winking at the girl he got to one knee and let her kiss him. Before the girl could scurry off he pulled her back and gave her a quick kiss. "Now yah can run away. Ask Kirit ta make yah tea. I tink he'd like ta learn how to make et and den drink et proper."

Calysta had been watching from the open window and the banister as Illya went through his adventure. She'd racked her brain for days trying to figure out what to give him and finally came up with the idea to give him something less tangible. She wanted him have fun and build a new memory. Hopefully it had worked, but she wouldn't be sure until she opened the door. Smoothing down her long tresses, she walked over to the door in her robe and turned the handle, just letting it fall open a crack. It took a few seconds, but finally Illya stepped through looking handsome as ever. A coy smile grew to her lips as she looked him over and then chuckled. "The hunter makes it to the last prize."

Knocking on the door quietly Illya waited for it to open and when it did he smiled at her. "I tink dis best part of dah hunt." Digging the little compass out of his pocket he set it on the dresser and stepped into the room. Illya closed the door behind himself and he pulled her into a gentle kiss. "I tink yah look beautiful. Dere are no words ta describe yah." Wrapping an arm around her waist he kissed her and used his other hand to play with her hair. He always liked how soft it was. While his was curly it felt much more coarse than hers.

Being there with him and seeing him enjoy his hunt, made Calysta all the happier that it was Christmas. She kissed him back slowly, wrapping her arms around him. She could feel him smiling as each kiss started and turned into another and another. Eventually, Illya's fingers were looped into her curls and she stopped kissing him long enough to whisper. "Merry Christmas."

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Kirit sat across from Illya in the skimmer on their second round of patrol for the evening. All was fairly quiet on the open land and the air was cooler with the night fall. It was especially quiet now that the farmers of Pyrta had realized they should rest when they could rather than go to the pub with training the next day. Not to mention, nobody wanted to be around Fayn, not even the other purists. He had taken to speaking almost all in Kaerelean unless necessary, and once he'd mentioned how wrong it was to see a mixed baby with the Chippeqouti out and about, most of his people had ignored him.

The week after Christmas had been a rough one on them as training had intensified into more combative styles. The men were strong, but lacked the finesse of a trained warrior. There was a difference in throwing a strong strike and actually having it land where it was effective. Kirit guided the skimmer along the edge and scratched at his head just a little. It wouldn't be long before he'd need to have Calysta shave the sides for him again. She wasn't the best barber, giving him a few uneven patches last time, but it was better than letting it grow longer than it should. "Quiet tonight," he commented to Illya, over the breeze, "I think th' men learn."
 
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Illya made it to bed with Kalizda and he was still laying next to her while he was trying to pull the day together in his mind. It was just a lot more than he had expected would go with any kind of custom that she had in her culture. Turning in the bed he held her around the waist and started to kiss the back of her neck. "I remember yah in dat red dress."

In many ways it was difficult for him to actually talk about what he did remember, but Illya felt fairly confident about this one and he figured that he might as well tell her at some point. "We eat togeter dat night at giant meal. Yah hair pulled up so pretty. I tink maybe et would have been fun ta mess it up." Chuckling a little he kissed her again on the back of her neck. "Can't help et. Even ef yah spend time making yahself look fancy I tink yah too beautiful ta resist. Jes get dese urges same as I did. I wanna hold yah close and...." Pausing for a long moment he couldn't help feeling a little nervous. "Maybe yah wear red again. We jes have quiet meal togeter instead of so many people." He couldn't really remember so many of the faces that were there, but he did know it was when they agreed.

When she turned to look at him Illya couldn't tell if she was surprised, upset, or if she even knew what to say. It was still a little strange at times to say anything about his memories so Illya decided the best thing to do was kiss her before she could speak. Momentarily a wave of guilt started to rise. He'd agreed with a very young woman and she said she'd live for 300 years or so and that made it alright, but still she was young. Did he know that when he agreed with her? Illya decided not to say anything. By now he'd done the deed several times. They had a child and an adopted daughter. To only make it more final they were agreed and he wouldn't have dreamed of doing the deed with her if he wasn't. By his estimation they had to have been together for several years since she already had a kid with him. It looked like she was going to start talking and he kissed her on the cheek this time. "Ef ets about da memory dun say it." Chuckling a little he tried to keep it light hearted. Pulling her on top of himself he sat up a little and started to kiss her again. "Yah jes make meh crazy some days. Good crazy."

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Running a hand through his hair Illya sighed. Training the troops after Christmas was miserable. "Yah all gain 20 pounds of fat!" Almost yelling he paced back and forth in front of the men. It was pathetic and he was a little disgusted with himself. Illya had never gained such a taste for a lazy life as he did during the holiday. Turkey was good, gravy was wonderful and the berries were delicious. To top it all off he had time to spend with Kalizda alone. They were together for hours on end and he loved it. Illya wanted to have a peaceful life. He wanted to have a time when he could go exploring with his little bird and at the end of the night they could cook a dinner and quietly enjoy a meal then go to bed. Illya wanted to sleep the night through without those flashes of memory and images of the war. In many ways he found himself slightly jealous. How was it that these farmers had what he thought he wanted? With the exception that they didn't explore.

"Men right column yah break fall front!" Illya watched them begin to perform the more vigorous versions of burpees and he turned toward the others. "Yah men will run 5 miles and den return ta do break fall and drill wit meh group." Of course one group of men thought that they were assigned the most difficult work, but Illya had more planned for the men that were coming with him. They were the most advanced of the men here and Illya wanted to make sure that they were going to succeed. At the very least a portion of men needed to know what to do should they actually get attacked.

As the weeks drug on the men began to show a little more ambition though they still tired far too quickly. It didn't seem to matter how hard Illya pushed the men they just seemed to get more tired. If this was their limit then he was going to have a bit of work cut out for himself. At the end of the day Illya went to Thomas' for just a few minutes. He had been trying to learn a little more of this Bible an Terran god, but he didn't have that much time after the drills. Kalizda would be expecting him and so was Thomas unfortunately.

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Sometimes Kirit's optimism was almost too much. Illya cast a glance back at the man and he sighed. "Dey learn ta get fat and lazy after dey have time off. I tink Federation kills dem far too easy. None of dese men will defend dere homes with efficiency." Though there had been some improvement Illya was starting to feel frustrated with the seemingly pathetic advances. "If dey were Chippequoti dey would understand da war and dey would work harder. I see dem break when dey tink I'm nut looking." They glided over the land in the skimmer and Illya glanced down at it occasionally to see if the electronics on board were still reading accurately.

Kirit gave a gentle turn to the controls of the skimmer, heading for the south side of Pyrta now. He could feel Illya glance at him, but he wasn't about to look away from his task since they were so close to the Edge. It was true the Pyrtans weren't learning fast, but that seemed to be their nature. "Th' men are not Chippeqouti, or even Reylian. Not raised warriors," the young warrior replied, "They not seen what we' see either."

How it was that Kirit could be so calm about it nearly drove Illya insane. "Ets nut good. I will work dem hard no matter how much dey hate meh. All dese men are meh responsibility and ef dey dun choose tah learn when I work hard ta train den dey have blood on dere own hands." For a brief moment he became quiet and then he decided to speak with Kirit about other things. "Yah Reylian and dese people are all warriors?" If they were Illya was going to be very interested in meeting them.

The General spoke a truth that Kirit knew. The Pyrtan's had to learn to fight, but sometimes he found that different people learned in different ways and sometimes you had to change tactics to see results. Pyrtan's were not warriors and perhaps they needed a different approach suited to their strengths. The only problem lay in discovering what those strengths were. He did know one weakness though and that was the leadership of Fayn. Kirit stayed quiet about his thoughts though, and let the silence be filled with the breeze as the passed by a farm with warm lights in the windows. The little girl out front gave them a friendly wave as they zipped by. At Illya's question, the young warrior was reminded that the memory loss had included his people too. "Aye, most of us. Warriors since th' ancient times, we keep t' peace when it is time, and go t' war when it is time. Ye came t' Reylia an' ye fight along side m' Chief an' his Elite with ye wife before. Ye took th' warriors run an' be one 'of us too."

Nodding slowly Illya decided to inquire a little further. "What es da history of yah people?"

Kirit's brow furrowed a little, thinking of how to say it. Military history was easy to remember. Dates, battles, and tactics could all be memorized, but the other things were harder and he was no scholar. "Reylian's start like tribes on Kaereal, a continent called Rey. We fight all who come t' us t' protect an' fight each other too. Make war with others, until one man come t' power. Lyr. He use flight t' conquer an' pillage t' build an empire. He fell an' th Reys go back t'their continent t' learn peace. When th' first flights t' space began. We look t' the stars an' choose t' inhabit Reylia...ah..traders tongue...'new Rey.' We join alliance, an' serve as warriors for many, many years, Rey as our base an' strength. Then, th' last great war. The old alliance split an' a war unlike any before came t' Kaereal. It ended when those against th' alliance used a new weapon an' shattered three continents. Hyrole, Tulay, and...Rey. They try t' break the alliance but Reylian kept fighting lead by a strong Chief Kulytra. Now, m' people live on Reylia an' still follow th' old ways. Still loyal t' the Alliance an still strong, learning to fight an' protect when th' time comes. An now Chief Tikan leads us t' battle."

"Den where es yah chief now?" Illya was glad to hear that there was at least one warrior society. They may yet have something to work with. At least he knew which major continents or planets he could focus on. Areas that would be more willing to side with them. At the same time he was starting to formulate a little plan in his mind. If he could find out which cultures followed which customs there would be ways to train them. Perhaps if he tried another little method with the farmers he would get a different reaction.

"M' Chief was on th' supply planet we clear from Federation hold until th' regulars arrive t' see it safe," Kirit replied, "Ye two work t' gether before an' now he guards Reylia. He had plans t' use th' old mines to t' turn 'th wealth of th' Federation against it. Ye ask me t' come train with ye when the Chippeqouti leave Reylia an' I agreed t' come, as First Warrior an' leader of th' Elites, I choose t' train with th' General an' learn." He rarely spoke so much, but the General needed to know these things an his traders tongue had painstakingly gotten better since his tenure with the Chippeqouti.

Since that seemed to be the most pertinent information Illya considered the conversation done for the time. Apparently he knew this chief though he didn't remember the man. "Good. We finish last round and den yah get back ta da house. I have meeting wit Thomas before I come home." Since Christmas Illya had gone to the man's temporary home several times and he was still curious about some of the passages that Kalizda's father had to show him. Mostly Illya was interested in the stories. There were a lot of good stories in this holy book. The tales were far more strange than the ones about the four winds. As soon as they landed Illya jogged over to the house where Thomas was at and he knocked on the door. Thomas was expecting him and Illya shifted impatiently from one foot to another.

Thomas heard the almost insistent knocking at the door and shifted from his chair to the living room. Swinging open the door, the Terran gave his son in law a nod and stood to the side so he could fit his wide shoulders through the doorway. He'd made sure nobody was in the house when the Chip made a time to come over, because he figured it might make the clandestine meeting less stressful. He couldn't teach the good book with the man acting like the world was going to end. They would save that for a study on Revelations. "You're late," he said, ushering in the Chip, "But I sent Henaiah out to get her nails done so we should have plenty of time." Bringing the man into the living room, he invited him to sit and nodded to the book already opened up on the table.

There wasn't any point in apologizing for being late. Illya shrugged. "I have more work." Aside from that fact there was still more time and he fully intended on using what he could of it. Glancing around the room he thought for a moment and then switched seats in the living room. It was smaller and less comfortable, but certainly better to sit in today. "What yah show meh today?"

The old professor found his seat again and picked up the Bible from the table, where he had already marked where he wanted to start today. "Last time you were here we talked about Adam and Even in the garden, how they were tempted and cast out of paradise. Today, I want to talk about the redemption portion. What, if anything do you remember of your readings on Jesus?"

"Eh...." Illya was tryign to remember what stories he read and so far Jesus sounded familiar. He must have been the fiery character that he read about. "I tink he call da....he call religious leaders snakes. Dis same as calling dem dah evil one? Den he take dah people in a boat to a mountain and dey send curses of many frogs to dah enemy and...." Illya squinted his eyes slightly before he finished what he did remember about this character. "After dah frogs he feed all dah people fish and bread."

At least the man had heard of a few things or at least recalled the name, he wasn't starting from scratch. "Aye, that's him. He's the one who I told the story about on Christmas Eve too. God's people waited thousands of years for him to be born into the world. He is the Son of God. A...uh ...representative of his father in the mortal world, and as he grew up he began to teach others around him. He also performed miracles..like making blind men see, and the fish and the bread. He fed the hungry multitudes who came to see him and learn of God's wish to see their souls all in paradise with him again once they died."

In some ways these were the more boring parts, but Illya was willing to wade through them to hear the more exciting stories. "Yah holy book have wars in et?" Thomas was pretty focused on all this other stuff and Illya was interested, but he really wanted to know about the wars. If there was something exciting to be had in a book Illya wanted to skip to that part. "Ets nut so important dat Adam and Eve eat dah fruit. What yah expect? Anyone would do et."

The Chip was eager, but also trying to change the subject. He needed to understand the broader point but curiosity should be rewarded too. He was surpised the man hadn't questioned God's power this time as he had last time. What God couldn't send a soul to paradise if he wanted it? Maybe the Chip didn't doubt that portion now. Thomas crossed his ankle over his knee and propped the Bible up to see it better, before giving Illya a small smile. "Adam and Eve eating the fruit is very important. One of the most important things in the Bible. If those two had behaved and stayed away from the fruit you and I wouldn't be here. It led to terrible things because they could no longer live in paradise with God. Though, I must admit, I would have been curious too. As for wars, well, there are many wars in the Bible too. We can read some of those when we get there."

Sometimes Thomas was far too methodical. Illya reached over and flipped a few pages in the Bible. "Dere es no rule what order yah read in yeah?" Since it seemed there wasn't he nodded. "Den maybe we read someting else. Adam and Eve are nut good story. Maybe wars?" He was still aiming for something more exciting then the last time.

Thomas tried to keep his patience at the man's disregard of the point. He was trying to build an overall understanding of things for him, and go from there, but it didn't seem to hold his interest. Instead, all he wanted was to talk about the wars of the Bible. How did Calysta manage this one track mind sometimes? Maybe what the man needed was to see Godi in action and then go from there. Sighing, Thomas flipped the pages over to 1 Samuel. "Alright, a war it is then. Most of them occur before Jesus was born, when there were no Christians but only those who were Jewish believed in God." Flicking his eyes up to the man's face, he wanted to make sure he was paying attention. "This is the story of David: And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and they encamped in the Valley of Elah, and drew up in battle array against the Philistines. 3 The Philistines stood on a mountain on one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side, with a valley between them. And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span.- in short the man was a giant and stronger than every other man Thomas added- 8 Then he stood and cried out to the armies of Israel, and said to them, “Why have you come out to line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and you the servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. 9 If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.” Giving a pause, Thomas turned the page, smiling at the next part a little. and described how the young Shepherd boy David came to the battle lines. So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it. And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled." Thomas finished the story and glanced up at Illya. "David went on to have many more adventures with the grace and mercy of God, which are also in this book.."

At least Illya had remembered that the book didn't have to be read in order. While he hadn't said anything yet to Thomas about the reason he didn't read much anymore and he was glad that the man read aloud without question. Settling into the seat Illya listened to the story with a look of concentration on his face. He wanted to memorize the story just because this one was in part entertaining. By the end of it Thomas was trying another one of his strange sort of endings. He always said something like that and Illya smirked. "Good story. I tink dat dis boy David es Chip."

The old professor stared at the Chip for a moment, trying to find how to say what he wanted without putting the man off this time. It was hard to make his point when it was being avoided or lost altogether. Closing the Bible, Thomas sat the heavy book gingerly on the table. "It is a good story. One of my favorites actually," admitted, before chuckling, "Why do you think that, David was a small shepherd boy with no training other than tending his flock. Doesn't have much in common with a Chip, eh? He did over come something much bigger than himself though."

After Thomas asked his question Illya laughed. "I know he's nut Chip. Ef he was we brag about him for generations. David es grandfather of yah Jesus." Illya cleared his throat some and he got to his feet. "I should hurry." He knew that statement sort of gave away the fact that he had perhaps read a little more than what he had let on up to this point and Illya had found a version that was read aloud on his pad. If he wore the headset Illya could listen to the stories at home and then delete the history so no one would know. "I ask yah about different war next time eh?"

Thomas was surprised to see that Illya knew of David. Perhaps had been studying more than he wanted to admit to anyone. He had misunderstood the intention of asking why he thought that. David was a normal man who did extraordinary things for God, and that was the true point of knowing. Maybe the man already knew that, maybe he didn't, but at least he was studying. "Maybe we'll study a bit of both, it's all in the Bible for a reason after all, " Thomas said, as he walked with the Chip to the door. "Good night Illya."

Nodding briefly to the man Illya started back into the dark and ran all the way to the house. He was tired, but he knew that Kalizda expected him nearly 5 minutes ago. It wasn't often that Illya was late and he half expected that she would say something. When she didn't immediately say anything he jogged up the stairs to wash his hands and get ready for a quick dinner with her. Usually Rose had to eat a little earlier, but she would eat snacks while they had dinner together and that was good enough. His nights were late and sometimes they were later if he couldn't fall asleep. If Kalizda was sleeping Illya did his best to stay in bed and he'd started doing that by listening to the Bible on a headset or some other book till he fell asleep. If it was the Bible Illya did his best to be sure that he didn't fall asleep with it playing. That was the last thing that he needed to have happen.

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Sasha stared at her maps for a moment. There was no need to reveal where the rest of her troops were just yet. All she needed was for the Cirrelants to do her work for her. Even the Chippequoti couldn't stretch themselves far enough to stop what was coming. If she loosed the Cirrelants on all the planets that had been undeclared and then of course those that were strictly alliance. Uria was perhaps the only land that she wouldn't immediately have destroyed. There was still some turmoil, but with the Chippequoti gone she was going to have an easy enough time manipulating them with what remained of Federation troops still on the planet.

Opening her pad she typed a quick message. The Cirrelants would be pleasedto know that she would willingly remove all her Federation influence and they would be free to attack within the month. As for herself that would give her a little more time to rearrange the Federation and get it under control. There wasn't time for others to be arguing over who would really run it. Sasha had every intent to take over the Federation in its entirety. It wasn't any good if it was split into factions, it made it hardly more effective than the Alliance. "Commander, I am pleased to inform you that the Federation no longer stands in your way. Feel free to attack the list of planets below and let your hordes feed as they will." Attaching a small list of those loyal to the Alliance she grinned and tapped the button.

Leaning back in her seat she started to write up letters of retreat for her officers on the different planets. As for those still trying to manage the Alliance she would let it appear that for the time they were forced to call for a truce. Wherever they were strongly supporting the Alliance there had been significant losses for the Federation and it would be easy enough for the Alliance to believe her statement that she would put forth.

Let it be known that from this point the Federation is making a truce. All Federation is pulling out of the Alliance territory. Undeclared planets have as of yet a chance to choose which territory they will be in. Because of the staggering losses in this war I am calling for a ceasefire of forty days.

Sending the last message out in mass she smiled to herself. That would give her plenty of time gather her troops and get the Federation under control. With a base of operations and a center control put in place it would make them that much more effective. They had pushed the Alliance into a corner so tight that she knew the only way they were going to take the offer. There was hardly any other choice. While they trained men to fight and tried to gain control of the mines in the first few days she would be gathering her men and allowing them rest. Cirrelants would do all the hard work and then when they finished Sasha planned to sweep back through. It wouldn't take very many men at all.

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Illya went to bed a little earlier than usual. The drill had been successful. Apparently the men needed to feel like the stakes were higher and the change in pace helped. While the fire had been controlled Illya had still put one of the fields aflame and he had his men shoot pellets at the farmers. Only took a few shots for the men to start firing back with their usual weapons. Thankfully they were not armor piercing and so any damage was minimal. That particular surprised drill did bring something else out in the farmers and Illya fully intended on reminding them of the drill and having them respond similarly in the next few days when they had all finished with their day off. At this point the general was pretty sure that they were too angry and upset with him to keep training for at least a day.

It was hard to sleep the last few nights and this one wasn't any exception. Once he was asleep the dreams started back again. Jerking awake he sat up in the bed and rubbed his face. Laying down again Illya felt Kalizda rub his back a little and he stared at the wall for hours even after she'd finished rubbing his back. For over a week he'd been waking up and having a hard time sleeping. This was supposed to be his day off, but he couldn't even sleep. In part he was afraid of the dreams. Lack of sleep didn't help either and the dreams were only getting worse. It was almost bad enough that closing his eyes would do it.

Not having sleep wasn't an option. Even if he did well with only a few hours of sleep each night Illya knew that no sleep would send him into seizures. Determined to get a little sleep he forced himself to stay in bed long enough to fall asleep again. Instead of finding the radio Illya kept looking for his father. Struggling against the blankets he pushed at nothing and started to grumble in his sleep. They were on this mission to the mines and he remembered that they caved in and he was looking for survivors. Somewhere Markus was giving orders. Illya shoved the head board a few times in his sleep and he turned over in the bed. Inside the cavern he could see a figure that looked like it was drawing a weapon. Drawing his own sword Illya lunged forward and he caught the figure in the chest as they tumbled down into the cave and the rocks nearly crushed him.

He couldn't even breathe under the weight of the rocks and he struggled to move even the slightest bit. Nothing was working right. His back was almost screaming with every little twitch or move that he tried to make. Illya choked and then seized for only a few seconds. Mostly unaware of his surroundings and confused he turned over in the bed and opened his eyes briefly before going back to sleep.

When Illya woke up it was later in the morning and he was covered in sweat. Even if he'd finally got some sleep Illya still felt tired, but he was determined to get up. Rolling out of the bed Illya took himself to the shower and filled a bucket with water. After he washed Illya took himself down the stairs. Wordlessly he plopped himself into a chair in the living room. Rose ran up to Illya and jumped into his lap. "Wolf I made something for you!" She was completely oblivious at times and her little eyes looked up at him for a long moment before Illya responded.

Being broken from his world so suddenly almost made Illya jump. Staring back at the girl for a long moment he finally responded. "Yah what?"

"Don't be silly. I said I made something for you." Rose held up a little drawing for Illya. "I drew a picture for you." Pointing to the people she drew she proudly announced who each of them was. "This one is Carrot, then Kalizda, Cypher, me and that's you."

Illya nodded as he observed each of the awkwardly shaped figures. He was practically a giant in her picture and his eyes looked more like strange green lanterns with a mop of black hair. "Looks nice." Taking the picture in hand he gave it a little further examination and then winked at her. "I tink yah better put dat on meh pillow and I'll see et later." Rose scampered off happily and Illya took the moment to try and collect himself. Carefully migrating from one room to another Illya sat down in the dining room this time. It looked like Kalizda had set out a full breakfast for him and Illya felt somewhat ashamed. She was a good woman and he was barely holding himself together. Not even enough to really be good to her. "T-thank yah." Quietly murmuring the words he started to eat the breakfast.

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Late that afternoon Illya received a mass message and he carefully read it over. The message took several minutes to read despite its length and Illya opened the program to read it to him just to be sure that he had it right. Listening the message through once had proved that he got it right, but it didn't change how disturbing it was. If the Federation was backing off then that meant that there was something far worse on the way. They were going to have to brace themselves for the worst that could come their way and he wasn't sure that he knew what could be worse than the Federation for those in the Alliance.
 
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He held her close and kissed at her neck, making her first instinct to chuckle because his lips tickled with their light touch. It wasn't until he mentioned remembering her in the red dress that she stopped laughing and turned to look at him with a shock running down her spine. He remembered that? Calysta smiled, her heart pounding in her chest at the thought of him remembering that on his own. She had purposely not said anything about those types of details because, if she was honest they were a little painful to think about still sometimes, knowing he didn't remember. This had been an entirely new recollection all on his own. Before she could tell him more, he kissed her again, asking her not to say anything about it at all. From his chest, Calysta kissed at his neck and ran her fingers through his hair like she used to, just enjoying being close with him. She missed this so much. "I think it would be good to wear red again," she whispered, "Marry me..."

***********

"You think standing next to that man, makes you something eh," Fayn taunted from his spot in the ranks, as Calysta helped show the men signals, "You're nothing but a damaged goods with a nice title."

Calysta ignored the man, though the urge to clench her fists and hit him was nearly overwhelming. Had she not prove herself time again, and yet Fayn still found the need to be cruel. Even when she could run farther and worker harder than any of the Pyrtan men on the field, she was nothing. Weighed, measured and found genetically inadequate. She knew that wasn't true, at least in some ways. Fayn's words didn't affect her like the used to, but it did leave her with the urge to punch something after drills occasionally. "You are dismissed," she announced, translating Illya's words.

They had come into the routine of drilling during the day, while she took breaks to take care of Cypher and Rose, before going back into the field. Having a family and training was exhaustive and it felt like days blended together some. Not only that, but she hadn't been getting much sleep. After their almost normal Christmas night, Illya had been having trouble sleeping. He tossed and turned at night, mumbling in his sleep, and she knew it was the dreams again. These were different though, he wasn't screaming or ducking. Something else had invaded his mind, and she wondered if it might be the memory of confronting Kent, by the way he acted. Flopping to his side, Illya took all the covers with him, and Calysta rubbed his back gently. "It's alright," she whispered, "It's in the past. Stay with me."

One night, he gave a horrible, gurgling cry before jerking wildly. The sound alone made her snap out of her light sleep just fast enough to avoid a heavy fist snapping against her side of the bed. Illya's body was contorted into a seizure and his out of control limbs were flailing in repeated ticks of movement. His feet, which nearly hung over the bed anyways, were smacking against the crib, causing Cypher to let out a mewling cry. Panic rose in throat Calysta's throat as she dove for Cypher, scooping him up in her arms, while pulling the crib away the from the foot of the bed with her free hand. There wasn't any time to comfort the child because she had to monitor Illya's seizure. It was coming close to the 45 second mark and she put down her fussy boy to get the box of medicine from the closet. A crash came from behind her as his hand hit the beside table, sending his water glass to the floor where it shattered. As she pulled open the closet door, the seizure stopped, leaving her Chip half off the bed and unconscious. Running her hands through her hair, she took a shaking breath and crawled across the bed to check if he was still breathing, then set him to right under the covers. Cypher was giving as much of a plaintive scream as his little lungs could muster while she cleaned up the water glass mess and by the time she managed to get to the boy, he was red faced with his squeaky cries. "Shh...Shh...it's okay," she tried to calm her son, but he wasn't having it until he was suckling.

While he was drinking the midnight snack, Calysta tried to calm herself down, sitting in the rocking chair. Her favorite tune came to mind and she started humming, pushing them back and forth with her foot. Gazing at Illya, she could see his brow furrowed even in his sleep and the image grew a little watery. He had been spending time with her father, which was good, but then he would come home quiet. They would eat whatever dinner she cooked and then they would go to bed...only to never find real rest. She wondered if it was the exhaustion that made him seem colder since Christmas. What had happened to trigger this? Was it her arrangement to have Henaiah reaffirm their vows? The stress of it? He had seemed like he wanted that, but with the following days, no matter the subject he had been distant and just going through the motions. She had tried to talk a few times, but it just ended up with a gentle but wooden kiss and then holding her. Calysta hugged Cypher closer and kissed the top of his sweet little head as she hummed. "I'm afraid your mother isn't much a lullaby singer," she mumbled into his wispy, dark hair, "I'm not even sure if your daddy is much better."

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Calysta knocked timidly on their bedroom door and waited for it be answered. She had elected to go over to Henaiah's place and get ready, putting on her long red dress as if it were the first time she'd ever worn the color. Why was she as nervous this time as she was the last? It made no sense, but here she was, knees bobbing a little a she waited. Her long hair had been coiled into some intricate work done by her mother in law and there were silver, glittering pins stuck in her glossy black curls here and there. She still wore Illya's necklace around her neck and her fingers played over a red sash. Why wasnt he answering the door? "Illya?"

Combing his hair had proved to be task enough. Instead of taming the curls it only made them more exaggerated. Getting his hands wet he rubbed them over his hair and then combed it back. It worked just fine till he turned his head. Somehow it seemed that his hair would sense motion and create its own. Rumpling like wrinkled sheets it began to contract into curls again. The big loose curls winged out in several different directions and he gave up for the time. A strange sound started in the room and Illya looked around. At first he thought it was in the bathroom and he walked in there to check for the sound. When he opened the linen closet the sound got louder and so he started to dig in it and then the sound was lower. Illya was on his hands and knees digging into very bottom of the closet when Kalizda knocked on the door. He hadn't been expecting that sound of all thins when he reached to pull the towel basket away from the wall and he smacked his head on the shelf. "Ow!" From what he could guess the sound was maybe coming from the closet and that was strange to say the least. Shoving the bathroom towel basket back in place he wandered into the room and then to the doorway. Reaching behind his head he rubbed it and looked to Kalizda. "Ooh yah look very nice."

She heard him rummaging around and then a little yelp sounded. What was he doing? "Illy-" Finally Illya answered the door rubbing his head and sending his wild curls in every direction. Her cheeks tinged pink at the sight on him in his black button up trousers as a smile crept to her face. "You look nice yourself," she replied shyly. He stood staring at her for a moment which made her cheeks turn even more red. "Is..everything okay? Can I come in?"

For the moment the compliment went in one ear and out the other. Illya was still busy rubbing his head while he glanced from Kalizda and then back to the closet. He was sure that there was something in it. "Uh huh." Rubbing his head again he turned his gaze toward Kalizda. There wasn't that odd sound anymore and instead he was just staring at her until she asked if she could come in. "Oh yeah...so we uh...Yah already know about dis tradition den so......" Illya worked his way over to the bed and sat down facing the closet. "Yah hear dat?" There was a little tapping sound again and he knew he was at risk of sounding crazy, but he couldn't ignore the sound either.

Her eyes narrowed at the Chip as he stammered an moved aside for her to come in. He didn't sound like he was really interested in this at all, which was a bit dissapointing. She had wanted to add this in to incorporate his tradition too but maybe it wasn't as interesting because they already were married? Illya went back to bed and sat on the end staring at the closet intently. She may not be the most exciting person, but staring at the closet door was a bit much. Then he mentioned something about hearing a sound. Calysta listened but didn't hear anything at all. He had been high strung all week and dreaming again...he was hearing things? No. That wouldn't be like him. Wobbling over to the closet in her small heels, she stared at it just as he was for a moment then closed her eyes to listen. There it was, a light little scratching sound along with a flutter muffled by the doors of the closet. "Aye, sounds like a mouse maybe?" Grabbing the closet door handle, she pulled it open and scanned the inside. There were a few clothes piled into the bottom of the hamper and some boxes stowed in the corner. Using her toe, she nudged aside the basket and found nothing. "Hmmm..." Then she stood on her tip toes to peer into the top shelf where there were old boxes and her father's graduation regalia. With nimble fingers, she pulled aside the coat to scare the mouse out. "Sqeaaak!" A horrifying shriek echoed and feathers flew everywhere as something rocketed into her face trying to escape. Calsyta tumbled back and started shoving at the attacker, until it beat her with strong wings and plopped to the floor. A large, dopish looking bird with green feathers and razored beak screeched at Illya and took off to attack again.

Maybe it wasn't the best way to start out their night, but he wanted to make sure it wasn't just him hearing the sounds in the closet. Standing up he watched Kalizda tap across the floor in her high heels. She was pushing stuff aside and Illya waited and watched. Wasn't any particular reason for him to be shoving in there right next to her. Kalizda must have heard it because she started to dig into the closet. Only a few seconds later a screech sounded and he took a halting step forward, he wasn't sure if she was putting on some kind of joke or if it was...a bird? Illya had completely forgot about that egg he'd buried in the closet. "Oh!" Leaping into action he went after the bird. The creature scampered across the floor in an awkward jolting gait. When the bird turned its head toward him it would snap at his fingers. The beak was plenty sharp and Illya had a little chunk taken out of one thumb and then he was chomped on the middle finger. Stubbing his big left toe on the bedpost Illya still scrambled after the creature. "Kalizda close da door!" The last thing they really needed was for the stupid bird to get loose somewhere in the house. She wasn't quite fast enough cause the dumb animal skittered out ahead of him and instead Kalizda shut the door in time to block Illya. The Chip grunted when he slammed his head into the door and he pulled it open. Just outside the door the bird puffed up and screeched loudly. The feather ruffled and it fluttered helplessly down the stairs. Still slightly imbalanced Illya tumbled out the door after the bird and right over the railing. "Ooof!" He hit the floor below with a thud that shook all the furniture in the main part of the house. Sitting up he saw Kirit's eyes were wide as he sat up from his makeshift bed on the couch. "Get dah bird." Scrambling to his feet Illya weaved around the Reylian and made a mad charge for the bird that was screeching wildly as it attempted to evade both men.

Calsyta dodged out of the room, slinging a little blood and hair tumbling from its pins as Illya tumbled over the railing. Her first instinct was to grab him, but that would have sent her right over with him. The fall leftna thunderous boom in its wake and she winced at the sound before looking for the bird. By the looks of the creature it was obviously an eyown bird from the wilds. How had it managed to make its way into their closet? She knew without a moments hesitation how that had happened. Illya. Now, both boys were down stairs dealing with a bird they knew nothing about. "Wait!" Neither of them heard her, instead Kirit leapt from the couch and slowly started stalking the bird as it screeched at him. Rolling her eyes, Calysta scurried down the stairs and into the kitchen. The bird dove for the young warrior, beak snapping at his bare feet. "Ye dirty bird, back!" It nipped his toe, drawing blood and then made a break between the warriors legs. The vicious little creature made into the the kitchen doorway, slamming into Calsyta's legs, but quickly recovered, zeroing in on the large hunk of raw nyte beast in her hand. "Somebody grab it!" She yelped, backing up as it followed her with hungry eyes.

There were at least half a dozen times Kirit got in Illya's way. The man would prance about if he thought the bird was going after his toes and Illya would have to side step or nearly fall over. When Kalizda made it down the stairs Illya kept after the animal. Both Kirit and Illya ran into the doorway leading into the kitchen. Illya shoved the Reylian to the side and dove on top of the bird. It's large feet would have clawed at his chest except that they were pinned beneath his chest and then he wrapped one hand around the creature's neck. Looking up at Kalizda he grinned sheepishly. "I got et."

Calysta had half a mind to smack him and yell while the other half laughed and kiss him. Those birds were strictly regulated and didn't need males and females to reproduce. They could only be sold as eggs and just one live one could cause a lot of damage. Plus, there was that niggling mother voice in the back of her mind telling her 'what if it had gotten loose with the baby?' Still, no harm had been done, other than the cut dribbling blood on her arm and a nice shake to the house foundation. Giving a little laugh, she shook her head. "Aye, you got one little bird there," she said wryly before looking to Kirit, "Bring me your belt." The young warrior did as he was told and Calysta knelt beside Illya, tightening the belt around the animals beak while its beady eyes glared at her. "They eat anything that moves and aren't supposed to be hatched on the continents. We'll have to figure out what to do with it for now . I hadnt exactly planned on bird wrangling tonight."

Apparently the bird was a bad thing to have and they were going to have to do something with it. Illya started to slowly sit up and he held onto the troublesome animal's neck while the claws flailed wildly in mid air. "Well I think we maybe eat et tomorrow. Dey any good?" If the bird wasn't any good he was going to take it to the edge and drop it over the edge. There was a slight concern about having the bird alive if the kids were home. "Eh. Maybe I wring ets neck tonight and we pluck et. We can still talk eh? Jes like tradition, but maybe we wait till morning ta get dressed back up like we're supposed to be."

The dumb bird gave a gargling squawk at them, as it struggled in Illya's fist. She didn't have much love for the thing, considering it attacked her and they weren't tameable. It wasn't exactly cuddly like Cin or Keysha either. "I've never eaten one like that before," Calyst admitted, "Most people just avoid things from the Wilds because its usually poisonous. Kaerelean's are mostly vegetarian." Wiping a t the blood on her arm, she tried not to get any stains on the dress. "It might be a good idea to put on something else," she sighed, "We can still talk."

Illya nodded. "Ef yah eat eggs den I tink dah bird es safe too." Placing his other hand on the bird's neck he twisted it till the bird's head hung limply to the side. The Chip set the bird in the sink. "We uh...go change and den I make da food." Once the two of them were changed Illya helped Kalizda clean up her arm and then he bandaged his own fingers. "I get started plucking bird." Rushing down the stairs again he sat down on a chair and started to pluck feathers. "I guess yah ask question. Anyting yah want tah know even t-though I think that yah already know everyting."

Calysta pushed the bucket he was using to catch the feathers, closer to where the fluffy bits were falling down. She'd never plucked a bird before and it looked like messy work, but Illya's fingers seemed well-practiced at it. His statement about her knowing everything made her frown some and she leaned back in her own seat. How did she respond to that? "I know somethings about the Illya from 7 months ago and somethings about the Illya now, You're one, the same, but also not," she said quietly. Maybe that was a poor way of explaining it but she didn't know how to tell him how she felt sometimes. He would be looking for a clear question though and she sighed, playing with one of the loose feathers. "Are you happy, Illya?"

What she said almost made his heart sink to his stomach. No matter how hard he tried he couldn't quite pull it off. Illya had put in his best effort into this life and he really did love her, but there was still a lot of other things that were bothering him. What she asked was one of the more difficult questions and Illya kept plucking the feathers. "I dun know. Ets difficult. Dere es no way tah explain. I love yah and I want yah, I want Rose and Cypher." Illya took a deep breath. "I know meh work. Eh...some days difficult ta remember everyting dat I learn. Tings I used to know."

"Illya I know its hard. It's been hard for both of us. Iwould love you no matter what you did or didn't remember," she replied, still fiddling with her feather, "But I want you to be happy more than anything else and I can tell, no matter how I've tried, that you aren't in someways. Talk to me. Ask me anything you want to know and I'll answer." She wasn't sure how else to help him and it made her queasy to think that he didn't even thought whether he was happy or not.

Letting out a long sigh he stopped plucking the bird. "I know I'm nut supposed tah talk about dah dead. Sometimes I tink of Markus. Tired....War es only worse." adjusting how he sat he grabbed a handful of the feathers and tore them from the bird's body. "I dun know how close we were. Dun know what kind of tings we talked about."

"We were close," Calysta whispered, "You told me things...about your family...about the war." Shifting in her chair, she dropped the bird feather, letting it flutter to the table too. His tone was flat, and a little exasperated. "You told me once you didn't want war. I didn't want it either, but neither could I stop it. You think of your father sometimes, and that's okay. There's nothing wrong with that."

It was hard to know what to say. Silently he plucked a few more feathers and then he turned the bird to start plucking more of the feathers. "I remember some tings of da past. Nut so much of where we were or what we say. Mostly jes dah feelings." Lowering his head some he clenched his jaw for a moment and he worked to get his breathing under control. "Kalizda I jes confused. Dere es so much tah remember. Sometimes I want ta hide."

Confused. If he was confused, why had he asked her to go through the ceremony again? Or maybe he was just confused about other things. So much had happened and he hadn't really dealt with it, thinking it was easier to hide to avoid the pain an embarrassment he must feel. Calysta tried to meet his gaze, but he had his eyes trained on the featherless bird. "Look at me, please," she said. When he finally met her gaze she scanned his face, and peered into his bright green eyes with determination among other things. "Then don't force it anymore," she said simply, "There may come a day when you have more memories, but if you don't then we keep going. Focus on what you love, even if its just a passing feeling, and the rest of things will fall into place. "

Slowly Illya raised his eyes when she asked him to look at her. She was trying to tell him not to force it, but there was a lot more to life than just focusing on the present. "Kalizda, yah worry meh. I tink maybe yah...." Frowning a little he just shook his head and looked back at the bird that he began to pluck again. "Sometimes I tink yah want meh da way I was. I want ta be da same."

She was trying so hard to be patient, but how could he still think that after she'd told him that she loved him no matter what? What else could she say or do to make him believe that? There was almost nothing she wouldn't do for him and yet here she was at a loss. It was frustrating and almost maddening to know she was failing him as a wife in someways. She didn't know what the right answer was to this. "Illya I know you want to be the same, and I do miss the days you would come home and talk to me, or just kiss me because you could. The days we played with Rose and that ridiculous bear .silly cat.." her voice caught in her throat and she paused, "But you make me happy now, just as you did before. I don't know if I should tell you to be the same or not, but either way, I love you." Her eyes sank to the floor as she tried not to sniffle. It was pathetic really, but it hurt her as much as it did him and in some ways she felt just as lost behind her brave face.

Carefully nodding he continued with the plucking. "Almost have a naked bird. Ready tah cook. We jes dun tell yah dad what et is." A little smirk came to his face and he looked up to see that she was so serious. "Now yah try worry meh again. Kalizda I get trugh dis. Meh brain et hurts when I tink so much and some days are hard. I learn many days dat I do nut remember before dis, but I dun like it." It was probably as good a time as any to just say it. "I dun like et when people try tah tell meh about a memory and den look at meh like I should know. I remember what I do and den dere isn't anymore. If I remember I want et to be meh memory nut jes a memorized list of meh life wit yah. Kalizda I dun like stories of what I was."

She didn't understand. He wanted to be the same, but he didn't like talking about what he was. She had never tried to pressure him into anything or force him to listen. It had been mostly to fill her own loneliness and help bring some light in. Maybe it would have been better if she didn't remember at all too. Remembering a life that he didn't want to hear about hurt worse than anything, even if it was because he wanted to do it on his own. The new memories she'd tried to give him staying positive and just trying, weren't making him happy either. "Alright," she mumbled, "Well, then I won't talk about it anymore." She wasn't sure what else she could or say beyond that.

Illya hated how sullen she seemed to be and it made this sort of thing difficult. He had tried to tell her what he could to untangle the mess in his brain. Yet at the same time it was like it was complicated. It wasn't like he could micromanage her emotions and tell her what to feel. There was a sneaking suspicion that she still wanted him to be the same person and Illya wasn't sure how he could ever be the same. "Dun worry."

"Right, don't worry," she said vaguely, wiping quickly at her cheek. "I'm not worried." That was a lie if she ever told one, but it was better than telling the truth right now, tradition or not. Her eyes settled on the raw, plucked bird on the table and thought it must look how she felt right about now. "Anyways, you still have time to ask anything you want about me before tomorrow, if its still something you want to do."

Having her ready to answer any question was even harder than he thought and Illya didn't really know what it was he could ask her without making this even harder than it already was. "Maybe yah tell meh about dah past a tiny bit. Break da rule already."

She didn't know how to respond. He wanted to know about the past but not about himself in the past. He didn't really know what he wanted and she had been trying so hard. Maybe this was a first step and maybe he would just tell her to stop. "I used to give you coffee before bed to help you sleep," she admitted, "I poured cream in and sugar and let you think it was tea because the taste was awful." That comment seemed safe enough without adding to much of him in the story. It was just a fact.

In a way the story was funny and at the same time Illya didn't know what to do with it. She gave him coffee? First of all he didn't really know what it was and then why would she have kept it secret for so long. "Why yah give meh coffee?" That semed like a an logical enough question.

It was hard to do this while not trying to tell him what he liked or didnt like. "It helped you sleep without the dreams at night. It was a Terran drink and Terrans were people that weren't favorable to you at the time," she replied quietly, "So, I didn't tell you, figuring that you probably wouldnt drink it had you known." It was a simple enough comment with the facts only.

Hearing that it was a Terran drink and that he didn't like Terran's made Illya smile. Somehow he didn't find that hard to believe. "Hmmm......I tink I have a crafty woman eh? She es like little bird." In a way he was beginning to understand a little better why he called her Kalizda. Plucking the last of the feathers Illya dropped them into the bag and then put the bird into the sink to cut it open. There was a bit of blood, but he could get most of it out if they dipped it in the scalding water several times. A little faster than trying to bleed it out over night and then it would be ready for lunch tomorrow. Their own version of a feast. Digging his large hand into the innards of the bird he pulled all the entrails out. "So meh little bird. She es happy?"

"Aye, I suppose I am. It's become my name for all Chippeqouti now, though it started out as an insult of sorts." Calysta let him talk as he wanted. Hearing his own distaste for coffee didn't bother him so, that was relief but it didn't make talking with him any easier. How many times had she told him a story, and he'd hated hearing about it? She didn't blame him in some ways because it probably did put pressure on him, though she'd only been enjoying the moment. While Illya took the bird over to the sink and started washing it, Calysta took the bag of feathers and tossed it into the trash can before grabbing the broom to sweep up the strays. As she ushered the feathers across the floor, he suddenly asked if she was happy. "Some days are hard for me too," she said thoughtfully, "But I am happy when I get to spend time with you and the kids. Go exploring when I can." It was as honest an answer as she could give.

"I see some days are hard." Illya wasn't sure how to fix them. More than likely he'd been the reason for some of those days. "Maybe...I tink maybe dis help us. We talk some and I know yah better again. I understand why we do sometings da way we do eh?" In theory that was how all of this would work and he liked that idea. Illya knew that they wouldn't actually end up going to the elders since they were already married, but he wanted to have a night where he could know her as a person a little better.

He was still trying, even if he clearly didn't know what he wanted some days. He'd said he loved and cared about her and she believed it, but now she wondered if that was just him doing what was expected of him. She didn't want this to be like an interview or her talking the entire time. Just spouting off things about herself wasn't what she did. Still, she would try if he would though she didn't know what he wanted from her. "Alright, my full name is Calysta Marie Monroe. I always hated the 'marie' part, but its my terran grandmothers name. My father thought it sounded nice so..." Everything just sounded stale and odd coming out of her mouth and she shook her head, gripping the broom handle tightly. "Anyways, I'm sure you've seen things are a little different on Pyrta from Qouti...the um pleasure house obviously. We have different customs on marriage and a few other things too."

Illya dipped the bird in the kettle several times till he was sure that the blood was out. By then Kalizda had tried to tell him her full name and it was just sounding strange. Quietly he washed his hands and he turned around toward her with a grin. "Eh...I wasn't asking for a fact book." It was so hard to explain where he was at because even he couldn't begin to explain what he wanted everyday. "I tink I like et when yah tell meh what yah like ta do. Explore, and spend time wit meh. Maybe we do more of dis. I know yah better dis way. Tonight maybe we jes go outside and lay on roof before we get in nice clothes again. I finish putting bird in oven and we go yeah?"

There he was turning around with that smirk and sarcasm, making her blush a little. She had always been terrible at dating and it appeared Illya was no different. He wanted to know about her, but she didn't know how to tell him. "I think that would be good," she nodded. While Illya finished with the bird, Calysta gathered up the rest of the feathers and tossed them into the trash, then lead him up to the attic where the tiny circular window could be pushed up to lead up to the roof. "I used to do this all the time as a kid when I was well enough," she admitted, then she smiled to the Chip, "and sometimes when I wasn't." Shimmying through the window, she climbed up to the roof and looked up to see all the bright stars. "I never was good at doing what I was told on some things, but if I had listened I wouldn't be here."

Getting out the window was easy for Kalizda, but not so much for Illya. He nearly got stuck with his shoulders, but he made it through and then he got stuck again. His pants were about to get pulled off and he started to laugh. "I tink da window es kinda small." Wiggling a little more he did get himself through the window with some effort, but his pants had slid half way down his hips. It was a lot harder to swing his legs up on the roof without ripping his pants, but he made it with a few tries. When he finally got to the top he pulled his pants up and then laid on the roof next to her. "Et doesn't surprise meh to hear yah were a trouble maker. I tink yah dad didn't like meh a while ago."

Calysta watched him struggle to get through the window, nearly losing his pants in the process. He thought it was funny and so did she, especially because she wasn't planning on telling him that. Mrs. Kyli was out in her garden watering the plants and had caught a glimpse of him pulling up his pants. "Aye, takes a trouble maker to appreciate one," she chuckled back, "Dad...he raised me on his own, and naturally had some..concerns. They don't seem to bother him much now, though."

The roof was nice and warm after a long day of sunshine. Illya gave a moan of satisfaction as he turned onto his stomach to warm the other side of his body. "I tink ets a good ting." After a moment he laughed. "Maybe good we already agreed. I dun tink I could keep meh hands to mehself all night." Pushing up on his elbows he leaned in and kissed her gently. "Dis where yah grow up and I dun like dah way people tink about yah. Fayn es trouble."

Calysta laughed a little as Illya stretched out and talked about getting a little wild. "Hmm..yes, that is a bonus," she mused, as she let the kiss linger a little longer with playful pecks. When he leaned back again, she smiled and rolled to face him a little better. When went into how the people were on Pyrta her eyes shifted downward. "They don't all think that way," she replied. Some of them are quite kind, but being half breed isnt a good thing for some. The purists think I'm unnatural and my sickness proves it. Fayn...he is the worst of them. I think it makes him feel good to say the things he does. He's always been trouble."

The Chip's face darkened when she spoke about Fayn. "Yah mean he still talks?" It was something that he had assumed had quit some time ago. He had been disgusted with how the man talked about Kalizda and it was no different now. "I talk wit him before and ef he still says dese tings to yah den I have ta make sure he knows yah are a superior officer and he can't say dat sort of ting about yah."

Calysta's eyes widened and she shook her head. Fayn had always been there and he would never respect her no matter what status she had. She was inferior from birth and that was the end of it. "I know some of what happened at the bar," she admitted, "and I don't say anything because I represent the Chippeqouti while I'm here. Even when he says things, I ignore them because I know he'll push worse and make things harder for training these men if I do."

After a long moment Illya just nodded. "Den yah stay close to meh and if he says anyting yah tell meh. Maybe yah nudge meh arrm, or do someting silent." That was the best that he could hope for at this point. To keep the lighter mood he sat up a little and kissed her. "I know who I agree wit. If half blood mattered I wouldn't call yah meh little bird. Et doesn't matter to meh. If dere es any shame et was it was yah parents. Cyher has no shame because we have none. Dere es noting wrong wit us together." Kissing her gently again Illya then waited for her to say anything at all. Perhaps she felt ashamed, but he didn't want her to.

Her hand crept to his cheek as he kissed her and then around to the nape of his neck. Fayn would always be cruel but it was people like Illya that made up for that a hundred times over. She had once been ashamed of what she was but that was no longer a concern. First, it had been simple callous over the issue and now the acceptance was much more than numbness to an old wound. "Hmm...nothing wrong with it at all," she chuckle, kissing him again, "In fact, it feels right."

Illya wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her closer to himself so he could lay on the roof with her partially on top of him. "I dun want any oter woman. When I find out I chose yah I was confused. I know for a while dat I make best choice. Nut even Chip woman could be everyting meh little bird es." Sneaking his hand up her back to the tips of her hair he chuckled. As his hand went further up her back he played with the black waves. "I tink dese are good times. Just us. Et makes meh happy when we're togeter. No war, no worry, jes meh Kalizda."

Calsyta brushed the back of her fingers over his cheek gently and looked into his eyes. Things felt right laying here with him. He was happy and he wanted her and that was the end of it. But she also remembered he had just told her not an hour earlier that he was confused. He hadn't known if he was happy or what he wanted. The man had acted like he was so sure at Christmas and then gone back to quiet confusion. Was this just another high before the low? Did he say these things because he really meant them or because he felt its what he should say? If it was the latter, she didn't want him to take part in the ceremony. Nobody should be expected to say things like the vows when they don't feel it. "If I am your choice, tomorrow we'll take the Kaerelean vows," Calysta said, brushing back his curls, "I want you Illya. Not memories. But just all of you there is to have." Maybe it didn't make sense to him, but she wanted him to know she was marrying him. Not his memory.

****************************************************************


Henaiah stood under the omne tree in her nicest flowing tunic and pants, the gold stars from Illya pinned in her dark gray hair. The Council woman held out her hands to Illya and Calysta who came from opposite sides of the yard. The two of them looked splendid, with Calysta is beautiful red gown and Illya in all black save for his new wedding sash. The only difference she noted was that they both had looks of nervousness rather than that wonderful glow of love that had been there the first time. Their first ceremony, the Chip had nearly forgotten his vows for being distracted by his brides beauty, this time he was looking at her, but with not quite the same passion. Henaiah imagined the cloud of war probably had a lot to do with it, along with the head injury. Her daughter in law had been trying so hard, as had the man, but she wondered if they could come together again.

Calysta walked forward with her red skirts clinging to her feet, feeling as if she were out of her own body. Illya was standing across from her with another one of his unreadable expressions. Was he excited? Happy? Wishing he could hide? It was driving her mad to know what was going on inside his head. When they reached Henaiah and turned to face each other, Calysta searched his bright green eyes, hoping for some clue if she should stop the ceremony or if continuing was best for them He'd promised to not keep her in the dark and make decisions together, but everything had still remained a mystery.

“These two people have come together in love and will now make their vows claiming their union in the sight of the all those present.”

Calysta heard Rose giggle with excitement behind her and Thomas gave her a soft 'Shhh' as he held Cypher. Her was her turn to say her vows and at first the words wouldn't come out as she looked into his beautiful green eyes. The eyes that gazed back at her, smiling but also uncertain. “With these hands, I, Calysta Marie Monroe vow to honor you as my husband," she said in Qouti, breaking the Kaerelean tradition, " To love you, protect you in storm or sun wholeheartedly. It vow to do this until my shadows are long and the wind ceases. With kiss I seal my vows, and let it be witnessed that you are mine. Now and forever.” When her vows were complete, she took up his wrists one at a time and placed a gentle kiss on the soft skin before meeting his gaze again.
 
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Ayrn, leaned against the heavy curtain in the back stage area and pulled at his stiff shirt collar with his fingers, trying to loosen up the red tie. He wasn’t the one on stage so why did he need to be in a suit and tie? “Appearances are everything,” his father had said, shortly before telling him to shut the hell up. All it had taken was a small lie about the brief case he stole being useless. He’d simply told his father, he was out of money and living like a vagabond. The brief case looked like it had a lot of money in it or at least something sellable and that’s why he had stolen it. The lie and a few heartfelt apologies had been enough to get him a nice warm bed again. A ton of delicious food too. His mother had covered him in little kisses and then set straight away to ordering him all of his favorite things, claiming he was too skinny. He had been welcomed home by most of Terra too, a big party held for the return of William Yarbrough’s lost son. He’d enjoyed the booze and flirted with one or three ladies who were more than willing to entertain. Coming home hadn’t exactly been a picnic. His father was more irritable than ever and his mother cried behind closed doors when she thought nobody could hear.

He watched his father give some answer on foreign policy, talking about “making Terrans the priority and protecting our own at home and abroad.” Ayrn just rolled his eye and crossed his arms. There may have been a time when he thought that was the truth, but his father only knew one priority and that was securing power with money. The old man had surprised him by letting him come home though, and had even set him up with some nice stuff, all for the sake of appearances of course. At least here he wasn’t broke and sneered at. Most of the time.

“As a proclaimed believer in separation, what would you say to those who believe staying with the Alliance is the wiser idea? They are after all, deeply embedded in defensive campaign at G’koe and continue to provide aid to Terran citizens,” asked one of the moderators.

“I say we are fully capable of protecting ourselves and assets with better trade partners and allies. Ones who will answer the demand for justice immediately when the time comes,” his father replied proudly, “An incident like the tragedy on Veyna 4 would need happen again.”

The questions went on and on until finally the debate was over. William read the mass message sent by his associates as he was walking off of the debate floor where the roaring applause was still going. Since the new management things had begun to shift, and everyone with a brain and the right information could see that, but this newest development was a bit enraging. With all the cameras still following him, William kept his cool demeanor and walked out to his car but not before snapping at his son to follow. The boy had been leaning against the curtains looking bored and he couldn't stand the slack face and glazed over eye his son got when it came to business. Keeping his smile up till he got into the car with his son, William asked the driver to change destinations to his office and it was done with no questions asked. When he arrived, he banished his son to go do something useful in the office and sat down at his desk, pulling out his pad with a jerk of the desk drawer. The secure line remained the same, though a new person now owned it. A woman from what he understood and she had just done something very stupid. Mashing the button, he tried to calm himself as the pad began to dial.

The line was ringing and Sasha rolled her eyes. Of course the man was going to be calling. She had read a few things and she happened to know that Yarbrough was a bit of a firebrand and one that had been easily manipulated in the past. He wasn't quite smart enough to see the big picture, but she would humor him. Every leader needed his powerful dunces to run his work. "Hello." Answering the line she waited for the voice on the other end to begin.

William heard the short 'hello' sound over the speaker and was glad that he hadn't decided to use video feed with it. Keeping up appearances all day was hard enough without having to control his face when dealing with this sort of work. Gathering himself he sat back in his leather chair. "You know who I am," he began, knowing introductions on one side would not be needed, "So, I think its only fair as an associate that I know with whom I speak."

"I do know who you are." The woman chimed in her usual sing song type voice, but it did hold a certain chill. "It really is only appropriate for you to know with the one you speak with. I am the head of the Federation and you may call me Kent." It was a name that she intended to use for the sake of remaining uniform. The Federation had a list of Kents and every leader had been Kent for some time. It was just the name that accompanied the office.

William worked his jaw a little at the woman using the false name of Kent. It made sense in part but it was also a bit annoying not to know this new one. He and the old Kent had at least built a small repoire. This woman would be a wild card but he had to assume she knew everything. "Alright, Kent. Why are you pulling the men from our assets? My assets? Just leaving the mines and people put like that is going to call some things into question and puts the campaign I just built in serious jeopardy."

It seemed that she had done the right thing after all. He was going to have to go all in or suffer the consequences. "Well, the Federation has to reevaluate the war and right now undeclared territories are going to be left out of the mix for the period of ceasefire. I can update the records and we will put our troops right back into the mines and ensure your safety from the Chippequoti. Federation needs to protect its own." Sasha waited for a moment before saying anything else. "So, Mr. Yarbrough what will it be?"

It didn't seem she understood the full extent of what she had done and here she was acting like she had him cornered. "I was under the impression that the Federation enjoyed having influence. My entire campaign has been built on whats "best for the people" if you pull out now, I lose Terra before the election is done. Xavier will keep his seat weak as ever and my company will be seriously damaged."

Sasha listened patiently. She knew very well where he was at. "Xavier is far too moderate. The people will demand that the Federation step back in and you will have his seat in time. If you want the fast track to victory then I suggest that you tell the people something that they want to know. Such as the fact that without declaring their will to be part of the Federation they will not have our protection. With the war the system is delicate and I imagine the Cirrelants will want their piece of the cake too. We need to consolidate and keep our power concentrated. I'm sure you understand that."

"What I understand is Terran politics and how people will react to this. It will be political suicide and bring me out into the light as Federation," William growled as his hands curled into fists. This 'kent' was even crazier than the last and what she suggested sounded as if she was bringing the Cirellants into play. They were dangerous and would double cross in the blink of an eye given the chance. "I have a better idea."

The woman doodled on a page as she listened to the ranting. If only they knew. Pitiful Terrans. They liked to think that this was the only system. She had far more interesting prospects than just sitting here as Kent. "What is your better idea?"

"If you really want Terra and is assets secured, we need to speed up the election process to an emergency vote. It may be a good opportunity to make the Chippeqouti and the Alliance look very bad in the Terran public. If you really want to spur them into action, give them a tragedy and they'll fall in line like ducklings," William said. It disliked telling her these things, but it was necessary for now. He didn't intend on remaining an underling forever but why use his resources when he could use his current allies instead.

Taking her back to elementary steps was all the more proof she needed. Yarbrough was a man that assumed he knew more than others. "I'm sure that you have carefully assessed this situation. If you must hasten the elections I'm sure you can rig a tragedy, but I assure you that there is no shortage of tragedy during wars." Cirrelants hadn't been given permission to attack Terra just yet, but if it was needed she could arrange for a small portion of them to do it. "Mr. Yarbrough this Federation is built on cooperation and intelligence. Both of which I hope to see you display."

This woman had no understanding obviously and he rubbed his temple as she insulted him. "I wouldn't have made it this far if I couldn't and those standards apply equally to you, Ms. Kent. When I'm sitting in the Presidential suite perhaps we can discuss further ventures together."

Being a woman had its disadvantages at times. It seemed that this man would have responded better if he would have thought that it was another man he was dealing with rather than a woman. "We all get here by our own methods Mr. Yarbrough. I have told you what my expectations are."

William grit his teeth, staying silent over the phone for a long moment before deciding how he wanted to answer. "Aye, you've made that clear. Have a good evening, Ms. Kent." Without so much as another word he clicked the end call button. Tossing his pad across the desk, he stared at it for a good long while. This Kent was planning something and he would lose the mines and ports protected by the Federation whenever it did, to the Cirellants. He cringed just thinking of the dirty bugs. It would make his campaign promises look ridiculous and though it would hurt Xavier too. The process needed to be sped up to an emergency vote and that meant all of the Heads of State, plus the chain of command beyond needed to be eliminated. It would be quite a task for his own men, and laying down such a big move would look impossible for a Terran man. But not a Chippeqouti. Grabbing up his pad again, he called his son into the room. The boy came dawdling in and William rolled his eyes. "Sit down, Aaron."

Ayrn plopped into a chair and crossed his arms behind his head. "Yeah, dad?"

The Terran scowled at his son as he looked him over. A useless lump, but still his heir unfortunately. "You said you were captive on Nuen for part of your....years abroad. Captured by the Chippeqouti. Tell about them."

His son shrugged, and William's temper flared as he slammed his fist on the desk. "Tell me what you know."

****************

Henaiah read the mass message over and over again for days after its arrival with a sinking feeling in her gut every time. The Federation was up to something. Would it be another mine attack? Or some other sort of terrible, weapon designed for mass murder? She knew this 40 days of peace was going to give the Federation time to regroup and they should be doing the same. They would be gathering their men like the tide retreating before an impending storm, and she had no intention of being caught unaware. Her eyes grew tired spending hours coming through reports of movements on both fronts until a short report from the Chief Airman at caught her attention. The man was at G'koe holding off the Cirellants, but it seemed the insect race had manuvered themselves to hold the planet with a splinter force. The others had retreated back to the Warren. Federation and Cirellants retreating at the same time? It seemed too much of a coincidence. She picked up her pad and walked outside to their hosts skimmer. "I'm taking the skimmer, Cylia!" she called to the kind Pyrtan woman. With a muffled approval from the kitchen, Henaiah left the house and climbed into the Vehicle only to be stopped by another message. This time a Terran alert.

"President Xavier Beck along with all Heads of Terran state have been reported as dead or missing as of this morning. Officials are investigating the hundred or so crime scenes, but one identifying trait has been released to the public, all the recovered bodies have been shot execution style in the head with a large caliber bullet. The kind, used in side arms used by Chippeqouti operatives. This has yet to be confirmed, but several eye-witnesses have confirmed seeing large men in the area. We will keep you updated as this story develops."

Henaiah read the message and her mouth fell open some in shock. It took several minutes for her to shake off the sheer adrenaline coursing through her nerves to scramble into the skimmer and take off at top speed to the fields where the Chippeqouti General was training.
 
In a way the rest of the evening was slightly awkward. Illya didn't know why it felt like there was a such a large gap between himself and Kalizda. Even when they went back inside and sat in the bedroom it wasn't quite right. Somehow the feeling of closeness had left. For the most part he thought that he had been very clear. He wasn't very happy with circumstances, but he did like being with her and the kids. Some conversations were difficult and there were days that he wanted to be alone, but mostly if he had a little bit of quiet time with Kalizda he was happy.

Once they were in the room Illya laid back on the bed. He had been so tired lately and he wanted to go to sleep, but he couldn't. This was the night that they were supposed to stay up together. That also meant that sex would be a bad idea. For the most part he would feel sleepy afterword and very relaxed. Which was nice if you wanted to just cuddle and go to sleep. So instead he tried to play a few games of cards with her. Tried to help her make her hair in the early morning hours, then he got himself ready to go again and flopped onto the bed. There wasn't much that either of them could say at this point. It seemed that she already knew so much about him and he was just starting to learn about her. At the same time Illya was beginning to feel nervous. Ironically he thought that he shouldn't feel quite so nervous to go through with the ceremony. They were already agreed and he was doing this so they could have a memory together.

All in the head it was far easier to think of. Now that he was here and faced with the real facts he couldn't help feeling nervous. Illya didn't take quite as long as Kalizda to get ready for the agreement/wedding. She called it getting married. Apparently it was interchangeable with agreeing. When he walked outside Henaiah was trying to get close to the tree, but Cin was creating a minor difficulty with that. The bear seemed to think that only the family he liked was allowed by the tree and he stood on his hind legs and waddled toward the woman with a few snorts. She looked to be a little afraid and it wasn't without reason. Usually a bear wasn't one to mess with. Illya yelled at Cin, "Nah.....Yah get out of dere."

With another snort the bear dropped to all fours and ran toward Illya. As tempting as running was the general knew better and he planted himself firmly. Throwing his hands in the air Illya roared and the bear backed off. It skittered a few steps and looked back at him. Since he had Cin on the run Illya kept after him. The animal was starting to get a little bit unruly at times and it made Illya slightly nervous.

There was a chance that Cin would one day get unruly with the kids or Kalizda. While he was chasing the bear it decided to turn around and stand up. Sniffing the air a little the bear growled. Illa figured there wasn't much time to take his action and he threw himself into the thick, matted coat. There were smells of varying degrees and none of them distinguishable from the other. Both Illya and the bear tumbled to the ground and wrestled with one another. At least no one had complained about the bear causing problems.

Only a few minutes into the wrestling with the animal Illya heard Rose yelling for him. "Wolf!" Taking a few steps the girl yelled again, "Wolf where are you?"

"Ahm...." Turning his head to get it out of Cin's fur Illya called to the girl from underneath his bear. "Over here!" Grunting and growling he pushed the bear and it moved off him lazily. It must have been that Cin felt a need for attention after so many days. Henaiah likely didn't know how to play with him was all.

"What were you doing? Kalizda is coming out hurry!" Pointing with her little finger toward the tree the girl gave an insistent expression and Illya jogged across the yard while he tried to straighten his shirt. A portion of it was un-tucked and he shoved it back into his pants while missing the bits of grass and leaves stuck in his hair. Henaiah leaned over and plucked it out of his hair while he finished trying to make himself presentable.

"Ready or not here she comes!" Yelling the words Rose began dashing around the yard wildly while she threw flower petals on the ground and in the air. She didn't seem to have any particular pattern. It was just a chaotic little mess of joy. Illya ran one hand through his hair and just watched the scene unfold. He was nervous. For the time it was best to keep his mouth shut cause he was pretty sure his breakfast didn't settle. Wasn't that the food was bad. There was just something about agreeing with her that made him feel like a little dough ball.

Swallowing hard he waited while Kalizda made her way underneath the tree with them. As hard as he tried to concentrate on the words Illya didn't think he would be able to remember them all. He didn't know you had to say words at a wedding. Even while she was still talking he was nervously gulping in air. One block of air seemed to catch part way down his throat and he winced a little. It seemed that the more nervous he got the more air he swallowed and the more unsettled his stomach got. Still staring at Kalizda with intense concentration Illya listened till the end of her speech. Maybe it wasn't long, but that was a lot to remember at one time. She grabbed his wrists and he tensed slightly as she kissed them. He remembered kissing her wrists once, but he didn't know it was part of this ceremony. Somewhere it had to have been lurking in the back of his mind.

This wasn't how the Chippequoti did it at all and he saw that Henaiah, Thomas, Rose and Kalizda were all looking at him expectantly. He was supposed to say something. Briefly opening his mouth he thought about starting and already forgot the first words. Maybe with just a moment of silence he would get it. Closing his mouth again Illya swallowed. There was another large air bubble that forced its way down his throat.

That last air bubble had passed the threshold and Illya worked his wrists out of Kalizda's grip. All that air was coming up and he didn't want to burp in her face. She was giving him that expectant look and anxiously Illya glanced to either side. Henaiah was on his right and Thomas had both the kids to his left. There was only one place to turn to. Turning around he saw Kirit. There were only so many options and so he pushed the Reylian to the side as politely as possible before letting out a massive belch. Two smaller consecutive burps politely followed and then Illya cleared his throat before turning around to continue the ceremony.

Catching a little look from Kalizda he shrugged. "Eh...I so nervous I jes eat air." Gently taking her hands in his he grinned broadly and tried to withhold the mounting surge of laughter. "Kalizda...I mean...." Snickering a little he let go of one of her hands and rubbed his face vigorously to try and compose himself again. "Do I say same words or jes make meh own?"

At least he could make his own and Illya started again. Despite his best efforts he couldn't hide the massive grin on his face or the lightest tinge of pink that had come to rest on his ears. Clearing his throat again he started off a bit awkwardly. "Kalizda I tink yah a beautiful woman. Yah strength like desert sun and kindness of dah shade in mid day. I dun see yah blood. When I look at meh Kalizda I see meh life partner." It wasn't quite eloquent, but it was all the better he could manage and he felt frustrated with himself, because he knew the past he could do better than that. Searching her eyes he could only hope that it would be acceptable to her.

*****************************

The men were all panting after a long run and Illya watched them with a nearly bored expression. "Long breath out and one quick breath in." It was the fastest way for them to catch their breath. He was about to call out the next order when he heard a skimmer. Turning slightly he saw that it wasn't just passing. Usually skimmer's didn't come close to the training area and this was even more unusual because it contained the councilwoman and she was stopping here. "Men at ease." Illya slowly stepped away from the group of trainees and he started over to where the councilwoman was at. Nodding to Maks he gave the man the permission to continue drills.

Henaiah looked shaken and that wasn't normal for her. Still the general kept a neutral expression. "Council member." Bowing slightly he made his respects to her and then raised himself to his full height. "I would assume t-that whatever news yah bring es uncommon." Illya kept his gaze steady, but he couldn't help the sinking feeling. She wouldn't be standing here like this unless it was bad news. Had something happened to Kalizda or the children when she left for her afternoon break? Obviously it was important as the woman was making her way toward him at the same time.

Henaiah smoothed down her bun from the drive out into the field and stepped out into the charred ground while the Pyrtan men were going through exercises. Some of them paused and gave her a nod of respect, others were working to hard to manage much of an acknowledgment or notice her presence at all. Seeing them train with their rifles strapped to her back made another jolt of nerves work.down her spine. She had to remain calm, particularly in front of the men. Finding Illya was easy enough in the crowd and as their eyes met he gave a bow. "General," she said evenly as she could, giving the man a short bow in return, "There are some developments that we need to discuss in private, if you would."

"What es et?" Illya searched the woman's face. He couldn't understand why she seemed to be even more an unease the closer she had been to himself and his men. There was nothing wrong with the training that they were doing. Illya had studied and practiced war most of his life and he would continue to do so. In a way being unfamiliar with it had become so distant that he lost the normal shock of it and instead fought to keep his memories at home. A normal life was much more jarring in many ways than this was. Stepping away from the men and into a clear part of the field he took a deep breath. "Yah come here for trouble I tink? What happen?"

Henaiah stepped around a charred seed pods and came to stand side by side with the general, info pad in hand. "That cease fire the Federation suddenly declared was suspect from the beginning. We've been waiting for a move from them, but I have just read a report from the Chief Airmen defending G'koe. The Cirellant fleet has splintered and returned to their Warren as well. It seems like to much of a coincidence that this would happen at the same time. I think its possible the Cirellants might be running interference for the Federation or are involved in some way. We've been waiting for an attack and both of our enemies are on the move, General."

Shifting his weight to mostly the left side Illya crossed his arms in front of himself. Frowning a little he listened carefully to the woman. "Aye ets nut surprising." He wasn't really sure why she should have looked so spooked over it. "Ets dah Federation way. I tink yah ask meh for advice eh?" Meeting her gaze he gave her a small smirk. "Dey begin to pull back and dis time we dun do et too. Ets time ta spread out and we infiltrate dere territory. Whenever dey leave space open we take et. Ef yah tink yah men nut enough ta hold et den I can." He knew that not everyone was quite as vicious as a Chip could be.

"I think they can hold it with some leadership," she said. "We need to spread out and get into the areas that have not yet declared as well. The more allies we have the better we'll be. Ewen had declared for the Federation shortly after the incident on Uria, mostly in the interest of protecting their economy. Now that the Federation has left the area, exposing them to a possible attack, I think it would be prudent for the Alliance to pay a diplomatic visit as well as a few other areas. We need to do this fast and simultaneously to get a decent hold though. We also must warn Sarai and the remaining Urian matriarchs," she continued. Truthfully, she was no tactician but she knew patterns and had the instinct for people. If Illya could be the hammer she could find him a nail to target, perhaps making some sort of progress in this war. "There's more though. The Terran President along with the entire chain of command on the planet has been assassinated. The news report just came in as I was on my way here. It's thrown the whole planet into chaos and I have a feeling we will br seeing William Yarbrough sieze power in the vaccum. We may find that Terra is not an ally by this time tomorrow depending on what happens. I.." she paused feeling a twinge of sadness for the loss of the Xavier. He was self centered and rude, but he had never truly wanted war, despite what his people cried for. "It may change the face of this conflict altogether."

The news about Terra was a little disturbing and there was one answer that came to mind. In many ways Illya understood her want for diplomatic missions, but there was no way that the Federation had abandoned territories that had declared themselves Federation. Nodding slowly he agreed with her and then lowered his gaze so he could look her in the eye. "Send meh ta Terra. I tink I would like ta investigate dis murder and den I kill Yarbrough. Better Chaos than Federation." He knew the name from research and it was all highly connected with the mines. "Why let man come ta power dat we know onleh make tings worse eh? Onleh way ta beat dem is for meh to kill dere leaders before dey rise."

Part of her wanted to agree. It would be faster, easier, and save trouble in the short term but long term, it would have lasting damage. Henaiah gripped her info pad, as her mind weighed the options, her eyes shifting over the scorched ground. "I don't disagree in part," she admitted, "But we want Terra back into the Alliance fold and killing him outright, especially by a Chip would make matters worse. The authorities on Terra already believe it was the Alliance and the Chippeqouti who killed their leaders. Some how ammunition and guns of Chippeqouti make were used and the entire planet is riding on fear of Chip invasion among other things." The more she thought of the situation, the angrier she became until her olive eyes snapped up to meet his bright green. "No, I want to expose him. I want to take away his entire empire and show the Terrans what sort of snake they were following. Then...then we can kill him."

Illya's hands tightened into fists and he glowered at the woman. "Dey tink Chippequoti murder?" He was already beginning to fume. Why she thought they had time he didn't know. "Dere es proof he es terrible ef we kill him or nut." Stepping a little closer he peered into the woman's eyes. "Let meh go now." He took this position and he could do what he pleased, but he wanted to go with the advice of counselors and those that knew this world and politics better than the Chippequoti. "Yah let how many men die ta prove yah point? Et can all be proved when we find records and den let da people decide for demselves. Dey may nut ever see da truth."

The General was angry and he had every right to be, but they couldn't act on impulse they had to tread carefully. "General some of the men who died today were my colleagues. Terra will fall under the Federation if we don't respond, but I'm not thinking of settling only for chaos. We want them back into the Alliance. They are a core member and could be our friend again against the Federation. It's not just about the short term, its about putting things back together where the Federation has torn them apart." If anyone could understand that, it would be him. Matching his gaze, she stayed firm despite how unnerving he looked with that fire of hatred in his eyes. "You find those records and expose him. The people may not listen but we need to try. There is someone on the inside who can help with that."

Doing it this way was almost more than Illya could stand. He hated the Federation and he wanted to weed it out now. No matter what the people thought in time they would recognize the evil of the Federation and he didn't have time for them to run around destroying entire planets. "Ef I can't kill dem, den before dey list demselves as Federation territory I go and investigate mehself. Prove dat dey are wrong saying et es meh men. I work, train and know meh men and weapons for over 100 years." It was important to note that since he figured nobody else could say that they had that kind of experience. "Send meh and tell meh who dis contact es. Ef dis insider es of help I dun want ta include dem in dose dat I kill when dey are expose eh?"

For the time being, it sounded as if the General was seeing her reasoning and that was a relief, but she knew all too well the man could be a maverick. "His name is not mentioned in any reports and it will be very dangerous for him if he is exposed. He is in deep enough that being killed by you isnt his top concern. I'll have him find you when he can on earth, under the alias Adam West. You'll know him with the Terran code word 'bats'. He'll be awaiting further instructions after this and I'll have him expecting you." She didnt want to tell him too much about her contact considering even a whisper could get him killed and while she trusted the General fully, his memory was debatable at some moments. "I suggest taking a partner. Someone who knows Terran and can help you navigate the planet. Once you have the information, send it to me and I'll handle the rest. Any of the other details I leave to you."

Illya grit his teeth and nodded. He hated the fact that she was going to send someone with him. That meant that whoever it was would likely know exactly what he was supposed to be doing or not according to Henaiah. In the past a Chippequoti General would have made his suggestion and the politicians would have simply accepted the answer given without question. His work was war and that was what they were in now.

Why couldn't she simply take his word for it and just let him do what he wanted? Illya was half tempted to do what he thought was best anyway, but he was in a larger group now. The Alliance had standards that he had to adhere to. When Henaiah was out of view Illya stalked back to finish the drills. "Men, yah scale wall and run course 5 times." It looked like they were all going to give him the death glare, but Illya didn't care. Taking up the front of the run he finished out the day's drill ahead of the troops. Illya beckoned for Maks to walk with him. At least until they reached the ship. It was on the way into the main section of town and Illya didn't want Maks to know that he was meeting with Thomas tonight. "Maybe yah take over some drills wit men, I leave on special mission soon eh?"

The Chip nodded and he glanced at Illya for a moment. A frown came to his face. "Sir, yah alright?"

Nodding his head Illya took a few more steps before he faltered. His legs started to get shaky underneath him and Illya hit the ground. He pushed up his arms in a daze and tried to get up. Momentarily his eyes rolled into the back of his head and he passed out.

Maks knew exactly what it was. They were close to the ship and a few of the other Chips gathered around. This wasn't something that they liked others knowing and so it was best if they kept it quiet as possible. One man ran into the ship to get some medicine just in case when the seizure started it went too long. Two others stood off to the side and directed the men who had been drilling further away while the rest made a sort of wall around Illya. When the first set of muscle spasms started they timed it. By the two minute mark Illya was still thrashing. Maks knelt on one of Illya's arms and forced the general's mouth open to pour the vial of medicine in. When the general started to splutter and tense a little more the soldier held his mouth shut till he was sure that it had been swallowed.

As soon as the fit was over the men picked Illya up off the ground and hauled him into the ship. Another seizure started and they carried him seizing or not into the clinic. The Ehaui doctor ran a scanner over Illya's head and he frowned. From what he could tell the implant was still working. Since the Chip already had the vial and he'd seen what he needed to on the screen the doctor shoved a needle into Illya's arm and pumped the medication into his veins. Within seconds the general's body went slack again.

***********************************

Illya woke up with a groan. His head hurt, he was tired, and his back was throbbing. There weren't a lot of things that made him feel this way and he couldn't remember anything before just now finding himself in the hospital bed besides the fact that he was supposed to see Thomas. Sitting upright he ignored the horrible throb and ache in his head. He was late. So late for the meeting and if he was too late he needed to get home to Kalizda. While he was swaying dangerously on his way to the door a pair of hands caught him and pushed Illya back toward the bed. "Not now. She's here and she's talking to the Ehaui."

"You understand the herbs yes?" The doctor listened to Kalizda's answer and then wrote up a small recipe. "Just give him a sedative before bed. He's not getting enough sleep and its only making things worse." She had already explained everything that was important. I only took the Ehaui a few minutes to narrow it down. "Between the stress and lack of sleep it has worn his body down and put quite a bit of strain on him. I scanned his head during a relapse of seizure and the implant is working, but he can't go this long without sleep." It sounded like the problem sleeping had been going on for quite a bit. The woman was just as confused as ever and the Ehaui almost threw his hands in the air. "No, no, no. You have been pushing in all the right ways. In my opinion you don't push hard enough. He's recovered enough that you should be asking more of him. It shouldn't hurt him no matter how confused he seems. The more you get him involved at home and doing the things he used to the better it should get. Make him a list if you have to."

Sometimes explaining a Chippequoti's health issues to their partner was difficult. At this point the Ehaui had as of yet to meet a Chippquoti who didn't hide something about their visit with the doctor from their agreed. "Kalizda, you have done nothing wrong. This is just him alright?" Meeting the woman's gaze the doctor wanted to ensure that she understood. "Go ahead and push a little more, talking is good, and just give him a sedative tea at night so he can sleep. That should solve the flare up of seizures. Implant should be able to stop the rest of them and handle the occasional surge. Right now his body is just overloading the implant. So, my advice is?" Waiting for the woman to repeat the words sedative tea he nodded with a gin. "Yes, and that's it. Just get him more sleep and the rest of it will start to sort itself out. We're all less confused and muttled when we've had a good night's rest and some basic rules still apply, Chip or not." Now that he'd explained a few things the Ehaui nodded to Kalizda. She could go in and see him. They had dosed the general up with a sedative and he was mostly tired anyway. It wasn't likely he was going to be awake.

In the short time Illya had been waiting for Kalizda to finish talking with the doctor he had fallen asleep again. His unruly black curls pointed out in various directions and a slight sheen of sweat covered his face. For the most part the Ehaui would have preferred to leave the Chip sleeping, but he figured they should get him home. "General." Setting a hand on Illya's shoulder he gently shook him. "General time for you to get up."

Startling a little bit Illya sat up in the bed with a frown. His head hurt and he was late. "Um...I'm late." Mumbling a little he pushed the blankets off himself and started to swing his legs over the edge and then he noticed another pair of legs that were definitely not Ehaui. Following them up he peered into Kalizda's eyes. "Oooh I'm really late." Lazily he buttoned the outer shirt up a bit tighter again and sleepily followed Kalizda out of the ship. He didn't really remember if she said anything and if she did he nodded and agreed with all of it.

They were barely to the house and Illya was already exhausted. Weaving through the house he tried to avoid running into things. Illya held his head with one hand and put the other out to catch himself as he walked all the way up the stairs and into the bedroom. Once he was in the room Illya unbuttoned his outer shirt and got himself stripped down to his boxers then burrowed under the blankets on the bed. After big seizures he didn't particularly care to talk, he just wanted to sleep and his head pounded every single heartbeat.

**********************************************************

By the next morning Maks had started the drills. He was on duty now and he assumed that the general was preparing to leave for his special work. Whatever it was he didn't envy the man. In a way it had to be miserable to be the general with all the hours of work that he put in, the lost memory, and then the seizures on top of it.

Illya woke about mid morning and he felt some better. Taking himself into the shower he got a bucket filled and dumped some oils into it. Occasionally his elbow would mash into the wall of the shower stall, but for the most part he got through it smoothly. The Chip took himself down the stairs and he wandered into the kitchen looking for Kalizda. "I need tah ask yah someting."

As much as he wasn't even sure that it was a goo idea Illya knew that Kalizda was the only one that he could ask for this. She was the only one prepared to take on this position in his opinion. "Kalizda, yah tink dere es way yah could come wit meh on special mission? Jes da two of us ta Terra." It meant they would be leaving the little ones with her parents and maybe one of the Chip women would be willing to help with Cypher once in a while if they had business or needed a break. "I dun know how long et will last. Yah meh first choice and I ask yah because et only right yah have chance ta refuse. Cypher and Rose would miss yah, but I give yah day ta tink about dis eh?"
 
He was going to throw up judging by the panicked on his face as he pulled out of her grasp. Calysta watched his eyes dodge around, looking for some sort of exit point while everyone stood there uncertain what the Chip was going to do. When the man spun in Kirit's direction and shoved him, the young warrior was already trying to step to the side, but the extra boost sent him careening out of the way just in time to avoid a massive belch. The burp was so long and loud it echoed through the back yard and left a tangible silence in its wake after the last to hiccups. From the other side of the fence, came the squeaky sound of Mrs. Keyli. "Oh my, excuse you!" she said in Kaerelean.

Calysta stared at Illya with wide eyes and nodded when he asked if he could make his own words up. At this point he could have said anything and she would have simply nodded as the urge to chuckle bubbled up. This was all so insane. Remarrying a man she was already married to. She had hoped this would be like the first time so Illya could have this memory, but nothing would be the same again and she knew that now. Maybe it would be a good thing. There were few things Kaereleans took so seriously and this was one of them, and would be entirely inappropriate. Looking over his sheepish face, she couldn't help but burst into a laugh which included a hearty snort. Nobody knew what to say or do as she cracked up, gripping Illya's hand. "The vows...were good..." she managed to say through chuckles, "Finish up the ceremony...please Henaiah."

Henaiah did as she was bid, though nobody quite knew how to react. Calysta doubted he would remember her in the red dress again, or even kissing her wrist, but she would never forget the sound that came out of her husband or the pink tinge to his ears afterward.

*****************************
Calysta sat a cup of water next to Rose's plate at the kitchen table and sighed. It was her usual break from the field to come check on the children and even though it seemed like a break her mind was turning in full gear. Their ceremony night had been an odd one. Illya had grown quiet again, even after they had some fun, and it was bothering her. No matter what she did, she couldn't seem to make things feel right between them on a consistent basis. Between his sudden moods of passion and then his retreats to awkward silence, she was at a loss. She nearly jumped out of her skin when Henaiah burst through the door, hair a frizzy mess and Thomas on her tail. "Calysta, you need to go out to the transport ship now," the council woman said quickly. The woman didn't have to say another word for her to know something was wrong. Sliding out her chair, she took the skimmer keys from their hook and started toward the door. "Watch the kids, please," was all she managed to say before she was gone.

The Ehaui doctor was already waiting on her and invited her into his makeshift office without hesitation to explain what was happening. "Yes, I know most of the herbs," she said, running a hand through her hair, "Stressed? He know he's been having trouble sleeping and I've only been adding to the pressure I think. I never should have pushed things."

"No, no, no. You have been pushing in all the right ways. In my opinion you don't push hard enough. He's recovered enough that you should be asking more of him. It shouldn't hurt him no matter how confused he seems. The more you get him involved at home and doing the things he used to the better it should get. Make him a list if you have to."

The Ehaui quickly started in on correcting her, saying she wasn't pushing hard enough and that she should even start making him lists to remember things at home. Calysta gripped the list of herbs tightly in her hands, and nodded back, though her mind was elsewhere. "Rest, tea with sleep, and push him harder," she repeated to him flatly. He smiled to her in approval, but Calysta felt like a failure. Illya had been so stressed this entire time and she had only been making things worse without realizing. What had she been doing that had caused this? The doctor seemed to think it wasn't her fault, but just the nature of his mind. It was a small comfort considering she still couldn't figure out what to do to fix the situation. He would keep having these seizures that the implant couldn't handle until he was less stressed. What would he do with a wife who was the cause? Making him a list would help according to the doctor, but that wasn't what she wanted. She wasn't going to list out kiss her goodnight along side change a diaper and feed the animals.

They finally lead her into the room where Illya was sleeping with the help of a sedative. He was covered in sweat and dirt from having fallen into a fit in the fields. Crumbs of dirt trickling off his shirt when he sat up in a haze, announcing he was late. "You are definitely late," she sighed, "but that's alright. I'm late too. Let's get you home." She put a hand on the small of his back and guided him out to the skimmer, with weaving steps. There wasn't much she could do if he fell, but the goal was simply to get him home. When they made it to the house, Calysta guided him into the house. Rose was already in bed and her father was on the couch holding Cypher and started to get up to help, but she waved him away. "Just look after Cypher, please."

They wobbled up the stairs, and at one point he pitched forward only grabbing the rail at the last second. When they made it into the bedroom, he stayed stone silent as he took off his clothes. "Get some rest," she said quietly as he burrowed under the blankets. Calysta picked up his clothes and put them into the laundry hamper before going into the bathroom and getting a clean wash rag. Running the water till it was pleasantly warm, she soaked down the rag and used both hands to wring it out. With that done, Calysta made her way back to the bed room with soft foot falls. Illya had already fallen asleep but that just made the task easier. She settled down beside him and wiped the grime and sweat from his face gently with the rag. He was tired enough he didn't even twitch in his sleep. The man was trying so hard and not knowing how to help was maddening. Why wouldn't he just tell her? There had been a time when he would, but she wondered if they would ever be that close again or if they were going to be stuck in this sort of limbo forever.

***********************************

Calysta ran the bottle under warm water trying to take the chill off from the fridge just enough for Cypher to eat. Her baby boy was cuddled up over her shoulder, his head wobbling on her shirt and bright blue eyes wide awake. The boy was finally starting to gain some weight, though he still didn't cry or coo very much. Mostly he just obverved the world around him in quiet curiosity. When the bottle was warm, she eased them down into the empty seat left by Rose who had already gone out to play. As she swapped Cypher to the crook of her arm, heavy foot falls sounded from the stairs and Illya appeared in the doorway. "Good morning," she said casually, as she held the bottle to Cypher's mouth. Rather than a good morning, Illya started off talking about work. The more he spoke, the more her brow furrowed. Was it a good idea for him to be going on special missions like this? Not to mention it was to a very dangerous place. While Cypher suckled, she looked to Illya. "A special mission? What will we be doing on Terra?"

It seemed that she was a little skeptical of the plan and Illya shrugged. "We find contact and we watch for evidence ta prove what some men of...." Realizing briefly who she was on a scale of home life and who she was in regards to position Illya chuckled. He didn't have to keep this all secret. "Well, I go ta watch for Yarbrough. I tink he's Federation and Council wants information before I do anyting. So we go dere quietly. Dis means dat I will have to wear someting different."

Calysta listened as he started out talking like she was almost an outsider or a work associate and then took the effort to swap back to sounding informal. Even after all this time it sounded as if he still struggled with then idea of her. At least he had said something and thought to ask her to come before just taking off as he was prone to do. Considering what he was saying, she figured something must have happened to make them need to watch Yarbrough more closely now. "Did something happen? I do agree though. Yarborugh has been the center of many issues on Terra and if we can find evidence we can take him out of the equation," she replied evenly. Cypher paused in his meal and Calysta adjusted the bottle.

"Eh..." Illya glanced over at her and the baby. He wanted to hold Cypher, but the kid hated to switch arms when he was eating. "When he's done yah hand him to meh?" For the moment it was a good distraction while he tried to think of some ideas of how to say what he needed to. "I tink Yarbrough had someting ta do wit assassination of many Terra leaders and den he blame et on Chips." That was the long and the short of it.

Calysta's eyes snapped up to Illya. "What? There was an assassination?" She had been running around helping children, dealing with Ehaui, and trying to look after Illya. She hadnt picked up her info pad once in nearly 24 hours to read anything. As the news sank in, she knew Yarbrough was likely the culprit. He was running for president and she was positive he was federation though the rest of Terra remained ignorant for the most part, buying into his hype. A trip like this would be dangerous, especially for them, but she was the best choice for this. She spoke the langauge, was somewhat familiar with custom, and could fight if she had to. Plus, she could get them on the planet with relative quiet. Being away from her babies would be hard, but this was necessary. The bottle had run dry and she put it down to burp him, by putting him over he shoulder again. She started to pat his back, but remembered Illya had asked to hold him. Peeling the beautiful boy away, she held him out to the chip. "Burp him, yeah? And I'm glad you asked, becauseI can help. I think its good if I go."

It was impossible not to eye the baby with some kind of jealousy. He really wanted to hold the baby. When she handed the boy to him Illya put the baby over his shoulder and Cypher made a little squeak before he nestled his little drooling mouth on his dad's shoulder. Illya rubbed Cypher's back gently and then he'd pat it carefully. A little burp started to work its way up the boy's stomach and he straightened out a little and whimpered just before he belched. "Yah sound like meh." Chuckling a little Illya glanced at the boy to see the baby giving him a gummy smile. Part of Illya felt more alive when he held the baby. He didn't have to say much and the kid would grin, there was no little prodding or pushing from the boy either. Feeling a little more at ease Illya looked at Kalizda. "Yah da best person for dah work and I wouldn't trust anyone as much as I trust yah." Even if it had been hard Illya was learning to trust her a little more all the time.

Watching her Chip take Cypher always made a smile creep its way to her lips. Illya was so good with him and Cypher was a near carbon copy of his father as he gave a happy grin after a satisfying burp. "He looks like his father too," Calsyta giggled, "All cheeky smiles when he's happy." Illya seemed to relax around Cypher in a way he wouldn't or perhaps couldn't with her. Even at their reaffirmation. It both hurt and made her glad at the same time. If he wasn't comfortable with her at least he was around his baby. "I would hope so," she replied evenly, "Besides, who's going to keep you out of trouble." At the last comment she cut her eyes up at him with a mischievous gaze.

"Trouble, who said anyting about dat?" Grumbling a little he smirked at at her from underneath his shaggy head of black hair. Leaning back a little more in the chair he continued to rub the baby's back till Cypher started to fall asleep. All the while the boy gnawed on his father's shoulder. The drool spot grew on his shoulder and Illya glanced at Kalizda. "Did yah know how old I was when yah agreed wit meh dah first time?" That one little fact had niggled in the back of his mind for a long time now and he felt very uncomfortable with it.

Calysta chuckled as she sat back and toyed with the necklace at chest. "Aye trouble. Wouldnt be a trip with you without it," she teased. They grew quiet for a moment aa Cypher gummed at Illya's shoulder, his little hands gripping at the Chip's shirt collar. Suddenly, he asked her something entirely out of the blue. How old he was? Where had that come from? Titling her to the side, she gave him a curious look and then nodded. "I knew the first time and it didn't bother me. The only thing I was about was not living as long as you, at first. The Ehaui solved that problem though." Searching his face with her grey eyes, her curiosity got the better of her and she remembered the doctors words. "Does the gap bother you?"

Naturally the question was going to be turned around and he had to answer the same one. Illya took a deep breath. "I tink sometimes maybe yah didn't know and den et bothered meh." In part it still bothered him, but he felt a little better knowing that she wasn't surprised by it. "I learn nut to be bothered by et so much now dat I know yah ok wit et." After a moment he felt the baby go slack and he knew that Cypher had fallen asleep. "Kalizda, yah ever wonder how we ended up like dis? Agreed and all dat?"

What there was to be bothered by as far as age went Calysta wasn't entirely sure. He was older, he'd had a life before her and she accepted that. Though some parts of that life had been harder than others. Cypher's breathing became slow and steady on his father's shoulder. He had laid his head down, with his dimpled cheek smooshed against Illya's shoulder and gone to sleep where it was warm and safe. Calysta couldn't help but reach over and smooth down the delicate hairs over her baby's head. They were so soft as to be irresistible to touch when she could. Illya caught her eyes again and asked his next questions. The way he said it was more curious than anything and yet Calysta couldn't help but think it sounded like he was having second thoughts of things deep down. More and more she was beginning to wish they hadn't reaffirmed yet. She had wanted to do it before something else happened but now she was acutely aware that his thoughts were mixed. It wasnt his fault, but it didn't make her feel any better about knowing he had made the vows feeling conflicted. When she considered the question , she wasn't sure how to respond at first either. "You mean, how was it we fell in love the first time and were agreed?" She wanted to clarify the question before answering.

In a way Illya forgot that he was the only one that ended up in this strange loop of life. He was the one that had no idea what was going on in the background. Illya was trying very hard not to forget that she already knew and by her rephrasing of his question he realized he'd done it again. "Well....I guess." Taking a breath he started again. "Kalizda I want ta know why yah loved meh. Already know dat we didn't like eachoter ta start wit."

"Love," she asserted, "I still do." The question was a good one but it was hard for her to answer. She showed her love through what she did and loving him had been almost natural after awhile. Calysta played her fingers over the beautiful necklace, as she thought over how to begin to explain. Why did she always have to be so awful at these types of things? He was waiting for some sort of answer, but she wanted to make sure she answered the best way she could. Gathering her thoughts, Calysta looked back to him feeling nervous. What if she poured her heart out and he rejected it in all his uncertainty? "I fell in love with you slowly, Illya. Over time you stole little bits of my heart I didnt dare let anyone have. I began to trust you when I saw there was so much more than a man from the desert, a humor and a kindness. You also see me as a person and not a half breed. That trust grew to respect and friendship." She paused trying her best to get to the root of how she felt. "I love you because you make me laugh, and your open to new things, with new places. Even if that wasn't so at first. No matter what I'm doing, how cruel people were, or how far I roamed, I knew that you would want to be by my side. I love you because you were genuine with me, Illya." Calsyta grew quiet but kept her eyes on his, forcing herself to not look away no matter how terrifying his answer might be.

Gradually the Chip sunk deeper into the chair and he let his head rest on the back of the chair. "I tink dat I know dis somewhere in meh head." Sometimes it was difficult for him to even sort out what he remembered and didn't. "Yah feel like meh best friend and den I love yah and den I get nervous." Illya shifted on his chair. "Maybe dis es difficult for yah. Meh mind es very confused. I remember more tings and I know dat I trust yah, but....Do yah know what I mean? Meh head knows dis, but sometimes meh feelings take longer. I love yah Kalizda, I jes dun want ta hurt yah." Illya looked to little Cypher and he rubbed his hand on the boy's back again before he looked at Kalizda.

It was the thought of love rather than the feeling he had been experiencing and here she had been thinking that he had been feeling something. Maybe he had or he hadn't. It was hard to know any more. She felt a bit guilty about the ceremony now. Keeping her same expression, Calysta folded her hands into her lap. "I know you don't want to hurt me. None of this is your fault. I don't know what you mean by nervous. Illya, I don't expect you to love me if you don't feel why you do." The words were blunt and they tasted awful leaving her tongue, but she said them in an even tone.

"No..." Shaking his head he stared at the floor intently for several moments. "I love yah Kalizda and I feel et. Sometimes I get nervous because I dun know..." Stumbling over the words he found himself debating the reason for staying here and saying anything further. It wasn't getting better, maybe it was getting worse. "At first when I come home I feel nervous because I dun know yah. Now I'm nervous because I dun know what I was like. Meh head knows I love yah and meh feelings become stronger, but I am...afraid? I tink maybe I nut da same. Sometimes I tink yah disappointed and I dun know why."

Her fingers curled around themselves tightly, making her tiny knuckles turn white. What he said was both encouraging, frustrating and made her feel bad all at once. How was it she could feel all of that and not burst at the frayed little seams that had become her heart? Swallowing hard, she tried to catch his eyes again. "You don't know what you were like, but you also told me you don't like hearing what you were like," she pointed out gently, "Illya, when you came home you were still married to Isla in your mind and you didn't know me at all. Nobody could be entirely the same after something like that. I didn't expect it. I'm not disappointed in you, Illya. I'm scared that the man who became my best friend thinks he can't tell me things anymore or is too nervous to just tell me what's wrong so I can help."

Somehow despite all that he still hadn't got it all out and it only seemed to complicate things. Illya sighed, "I give up. Ets nut someting I can explain to yah." Neither of them were quite getting it so far as he could tell and Illya was already starting to get frustrated with how he wasn't communicating as well as he wanted to. "Kalizda, I tell yah what wrong, but et doesn't make sense to yah and I dun know how else tah explain et. Maybe we jes say I dun know and I keep trying eh?"

Hearing him talk left her striken. Give up? She wanted to scream. Why was it so hard to know what he wanted? He wanted to be the man he once was for her, but didn't want to know how? She didn't want a chore list for a marriage or to have to remind him to pay attention to her. That wasn't a marriage. It was forced and fake. "Illya, I don't want you to give up. I'm trying to understand, and giving up would be easy, but that's not what I want. You want to know what to expect from me?" I was a shot in the dark, but she was trying to understand. "Illya, I'm not good at this all of the time okay? Its not all you, alright? You're afraid you've let me down...you havent Illya." She sat forward in the chair and looked him over with a steady gaze. "I'm not disappointed in you, but if it makes things easier, I tell you when I do or don't like things. I'll try to tell you more of what I feel if that's what you want. That way you aren't in the dark."

Kalizda was somewhat making sense for the first time. Sitting up a little straighter he tried to focus on what she was saying. Why it was so hard to communicate with people outside of work he didn't know. All the military was still the same and he found that comforting in a way. Taking a deep breath he nodded. "Yes I like dat. Yah tell meh when I do someting right or wrong and I learn." It was easily the most reasonable thing that she had said as of yet. "Kalizda, I want to please yah. I dun choose to be stupid et jes comes over meh."

Calysta took in a deep breath, feeling as if she had made some sort of progress, however small it might be. "I know," she replied, shifting forward in her chair, "We'll work on it together, yeah? I'll try to tell you what I think and feel so you'll know." Pausing for a moment, she thought about how to proceed from there. He was trying and so was she, sure that was enough to rebuild? Maybe there were other things he had yet to tell her about, things she could be doing better. "Are there other things that are bothering you?"

The conversation was over as far as Illya could tell and he'd gladly shut his brain off in that capacity. Kalizda was just reaffirming that her idea was a good one that was going to be the end of it. At least that's what Illya thought. Turning his head toward her he blinked a few times. "Like what?" He had no idea what sort of things she meant. Would Calysta be asking about anything, something related the conversation?

She was trying to learn more about where is mind was at while they were entrenched in this sort of conversation. "Um, anything else...you've been wondering..." she said slowly, trying to round up how to make the question clearer, "Things like the age gap for example....anything else you think you might be doing wrong? Or you are unsure about me?" It wasn't the best phrasing, but it was a start and maybe it was enough to make sense until she got better at it.

It became a bit awkward and Illya grinned sheepishly. "Nut dat I can tink of. Probably later I tink of someting and forget again."

Calytsa let out a small chuckle, half out of nerves and half out relief at the same time, then rose from her seat. Leaning over, she kissed his forehead gently. "My forgetful Chip, huh," she said, "I think you should stay and spend some time with Cypher this morning. I'll see to the details for the trip to Terra and be back, yeah?" It would be good for him to have some time with his boy and the arrangements would be easy.

Leaving her men, one little and one big, Calysta took the skimmer out the airfield and secured a small Terran star-class craft, meant for small time cargo hauling and basic travel between systems. The Silas had been left behind by foolish Terrans who had gone into the Wilds seeking treasure and never came back. The ship wasn't lavish enough or overpowered enough to bring attention and that was the main thing. There would be a little extra work to do considering it usually sported a crew of 4 but that was fine. Illya worked hard and so did she. "Is there particular reason you need this ship, Ms. Monroe?" the airman in the hangar asked, "And will you be filing a flight plan?"

Calysta shook her head. "I need it for taking a small diplomatic envoy to Ewen as a mission for the Alliance. No, flight plan this time."

The Pyrtan nodded in understanding and then picked up his info pad to start the check list of things. "I'll be sure to make sure the kitchen is fully stock and see to it that the armory closet has everything you need." She thanked the Pyrtan and then took the skimmer back into town, stopping by the shopping quarter. This is what would take the longest, and she had to quickly scroll a list of things out on her pad so she forgot nothing. Baby formula....blue jeans...extra medical supplies, better get plenty of painkillers...oh and diapers...Rose would probably like a little something too...some tea maybe....tea...need supplies for Illya's sedative too. Might pick up some coffee and creamer on top of that just in case...

The shopping was faster once she had a list going and it didn't take long before she had filled the cart with items for the trip, taking particular care of the herbs for Illya's sedative tea. She read the labels at least 3 times to make sure they were the correct ones before putting them into the basket and moving on to the specialty section of the store. They needed Terran clothing to pass as small time traders coming back from the outer rim. The store clerk behind the desk was picking a her nails looking bored when Calysta walked up, pushing the heavy cart in front of her. She didn't see much of anything on the shelves, making it obvious that trade with Terra had been dwindling for some time. There was one thing that caught her eye though. A sole black leather jacket hanging haphazardly from the hanger It was fairly big and where they were going would be frigid about this time. "Hey, Maraiah, what's that hanging in the back?" The store clerk snapped to attention and turned to glance at the singular coat. "Oh, boss had me order those about 2 years ago thinking the look would catch on. Turns out farmers on Pyrta don't have much want for Terran fashion," she smirked, "That's the only one that's left though. Way too big for anyone around here."

Calysta left her cart and inspected the coat curiously. It was well made from what she could tell, and her mind drifted over the image of Illya wearing it. "Ms. Monroe...Ms...Calysta?" Her eyes snapped back to the clerk and she picked up the coat from the rack. The thing was far heavier than she thought it would be and she nearly dropped it. "How much?"

"They were 200 credits," she replied, but the she leaned close over the counter.

Calysta winced at the reply. She only had 500 left from selling her last egg and they would need all they had to get to Terra. Think for a moment, she put the coat back down and sighed. "A shame that it will sit there forever. It's too big for anyone else and nobody has that kind of credit anymore."

Maraiah could see what she was getting at and leaned over the counter with a grin. "Aye, but I think the boss would be alright with me cutting a deal. 150 credits."

Calysta scoffed and shook her head. "75 credits."

"Boss won't let that one fly. That's just over the cost of the jacket. 125 is the lowest I can go."

"90 credits," Calysta pitched with a small smirk, "And a batch of gingerbread cookies."

That caught the store clerk's attention and she smirked. "Make it two and you have a deal."

******************************

On the way home, Calysta stopped by to see her father and Henaiah. She needed the details of the mission and to set up arrangements for the children. Henaiah told her in greater detail of the news and Yarbrough's suspected involvement. Calysta couldn't help but agree with the councilwoman's move to expose him first. Killing him outright would just add fuel to the flames that Chippeqouti were murderous heathens working for the alliance. Exposing him would be a blow to the Federation, and at least give them a better chance at bringing Terra back to the Alliance. "Are you sure that you want to do this?" Henaiah asked, "This will be dangerous and your children will miss you."

Calysta didn't have to guess what she was getting at. She wasn't just doing this for the Alliance, she was doing this so that the war might one day end. Growing up in fear and exile as Illya had was not what she wanted for her children or Illya's future. The best thing she could do for her children was do everything she could to make things right. She was also going because she was fairly certain that watching her husband walk out the door as he had last time would make her physically sick. "Henaiah, I know what will happen. My children are in good hands and we'll be back, yeah?"

Her father had been quiet up to this point and she expected some sort of fuss or demand that she stay home. Instead, her father hobbled up to her and held out two envelopes. "I thought you would want to go, so I had Henaiah make some credentials for you too." Calysta took the packets and slid out the two ID cards. "Ariel Laroux and David Shepherd," she read aloud.

"Thought it might be best if you two didn't appear married considering where you were going," Thomas said, before binding her up in a hug, "But I want you to stay close to Illya. Do you understand me?"

Calysta hugged her father back and nodded. "I will, Dad."

***********************
After arranging for Thomas and Henaiah to come stay at the house with the children, went home to unload all of the supplies. Kirit was out in the field with the men but Rose had already come in from playing and proclaimed she was hungry. "Help me unload the skimmer and I'll make you some lunch," Calysta said, "Have you seen Wolf?"

Rose picked up a bag with both hands and waddled into the living room behind Calysta. "He's upstairs sleeping with brother,"she said, "What is all of this stuff?"

Calysta hefted the bag of formula on the couch and picked up the bag of tea supplies from Roses hands. "They're supplies for a trip Illya and I have to take." Rose frowned and stopped in her tracks. "Like last time when I stayed with Grandma and Grandpa?"

The girl had a concerned look on her face and Calysta didn't like seeing that sort of expression on her daughter's face. "Sort of. You and brother will be staying with Papa and Grandma Henny this time. I'll be counting on you to-"

"No!"

Calysta scowled. What had gotten into her daughter? Everything was fine just a few seconds ago and now she was stamping her foot with a stormy glare in her eye. "You don't want to stay with Papa and Grandma?"

Rose shook her head firmly, making her new hat tip from side to side. "I don't want you and Wolf to leave me again. You came back sad last time. I want to go with you."

Listening to the girl, Calysta sank onto the couch next to the shopping bag and took a deep breath. They had tried to keep most of Illya's injury and the worries from their daughter, but Rose was sharp. She may not have known all of the details, but she was intelligent enough to see that something had gone wrong last time. How did she navigate this? Gazing at the defiant girl, Calysta leaned forward. There would have been a time when she told the girl not to worry about it and scooped her up into a hug, but not this time. "Aye, but this time I'm leaving sad," she replied, "I want to take you with me, but Cypher isn't strong enough yet and that makes me sad. He needs you to help take care of him while I'm gone for just a little while. I'm putting you in charge of helping Papa Thomas with him."

The girl seemed to brighten a little. "I can help feed him too?"

Calysta smiled and nodded, "Aye, feed and hold him. Give him a bath too."

Rose grinned and the grumpy look faded from her face. The girl had a task and she would be in charge of a few things, which was all the more distraction she needed. They brought in the rest of the supplies and put away what needed to be, then Calysta made Rose a peanut and omne jelly sandwhich for lunch before sending her to play again. Eventually, she wanted the girl to be in school, but that would be something she discussed with Illya. Walking upstairs with a tray of sandwiches for Illya, she found the Chip sitting up against the head board. His face was slack, bottom lip poked out just a little, and curls flopped into his face as he slept. Tucked to his chest with one arm was Cypher. Their son was curled up to his father's chest, mouth slightly open and chubby cheeks twitching. The boy was trying to suckle in his sleep.

The sight made Calysta smile and she decided it would be best to leave the food and let the two sleep. As she started to put the tray on the bedside table, found it was already occupied. There were several bottles of nail polish sitting half opened on the table top. "What in the Wilds?" A few, small drops of bright pink trailed from the lamp, over the floor to the mattress where Illya's free had sat limply on the sheets. Each of his thick fingers now sported a pretty pink nail. "Rose." The sudden image of Illya wearing a leather coat with bright pink nail polish on his hands struck her and she started to giggle.

**************************
Take off went smoothly enough and soon they were into a jump to their first refueling destination. Calysta had ensured that their stops were ones that had historically, had no Federation influence with a little research. With the war though, making any stops would be very dangerous. She did schedule a stop at Elizabeth's home planet. It would be good to touch base with their allies and it would be a safe port to use on the way to Terra. "Enroute to Paten. We should arrive in around 36 hours with your calculations." Flicking her fingers over a few buttons at the Captain's chair, she engaged the auto pilot then turned to Illya who was in his Terran style clothing already and occupying the co-pilots seat. He had a thoughtful look on his face and it was hard to know where his mind was at, but trying to read him did no good anymore.

"I'll need to keep a good eye on the engines," she said, "The Terrans who owned it before us had a few things calibrated incorrectly and I want to make sure everything is running as well as it can. I could use some help in the engine room, and maybe I could show you a few things." Illya nodded and followed her down the hall and into the small trap door that led to the engine room. Terran engines were always louder than Kaerelean ones. They lacked the refinement a Kaerelean craft did, if she were honest, but this one was in good enough shape to get them where they were going with a few tweaks. Despite its origins, Calysta felt at home here and quickly got to work, looking over the glass panel for the power readouts. Illya stood close and quiet watching her as she went over a few of the basic points, then pointed to a hatch above them. "I'm going to need that hatch open while I go get the tool box, yeah?"
 
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Sometimes the tired would linger even the day after a big seizure. Illya had slept in and that should have been enough sleep. He had every intention of actually staying awake and watching the kids. For the most part he could work on some of the details of their work while he was on board the ship. It wasn't long after Kalizda left and Illya was already starting to feel a little tired again. Cypher was worn out and the boy had become so accustomed to being held that he started to cry. In some ways Illya knew that the child would have to learn how to fall asleep without being held and at the same time he didn't see the reason in denying the little boy a little extra love. These were bad times and Cypher wouldn't know it for a while.

Reaching into the little play pen Illya pulled the boy out with one hand and held him to his shoulder. The cries turned to whimpers and the baby nestled its head into his shoulder. Rose was busy having fun outside and it was getting close to lunch time. Opening the fridge Illya dug through till he found something that the girl could eat, he could eat, and then he prepped a bottle. Cypher would be wanting something to. The kid had an uncanny sense of when others were eating and he always insisted that he eat too.

As expected the little boy woke up and started to fuss about time Illya finished making lunch for everyone. He had even put aside a plate for Kalizda. Rose came barreling through the door and plopped herself in her seat. "Sandwiches!" With glee she grabbed a thick sandwich for herself. The girl had filthy little hands, but Illya didn't mind so much. She was just a kid and as long as she ate what she touched he was fine. "Mmhmm." Grunting in response to her little exclamation he took one for himself. Illya held Cypher like a little football and crooked his wrist to hold a bottle for the boy while he ate the sandwich with his other hand.

Rose was old enough that she took care of herself for the most part when it came to meal time. She could get her own water or juice and she helped herself to seconds when she needed them. For the most part Illya thought that he was successful getting through the meal, but it was what came after that got him. Cypher looked up at him and gave Illya the cute gummy smile before he closed his eyes and then curled his little back. Within only a few grunts he filled his diaper. Apparently the lunch had been quite satisfying and Illya forgot about the food in food out policy with the little guy. "Rose yah go get diaper and wipes eh?" The girl bounded off and grabbed the diapers and wipes. When she returned the process was already started.

The baby was laid out on the floor with Illya struggling to get the onsie unbuttoned. As soon as he had it undone he could smell a whole new waft of the kid's mess. With just his finger tips he peeled the diaper open and started to gag. "Ugh...Yah stink." Cypher giggled and reached down. Grabbing the tiny little fingers with his hand Illya almost squeezed, but remembered that the kid was too tiny. He just didn't want to clean poop of the baby's hands. Almost as soon as he'd finished cleaning the boy began to grunt again and he pooped all over the floor. Illya hadn't thought that a kid could poop so fast and especially between diapers.

There was another process of cleaning the kid up putting a new diaper on him and then Illya had to set Cypher aside so he could clean the floor. Cypher laid in his crib wailing and Rose tried to help. The girl pulled the heavy baby out of the crib and then she promptly dropped him on his rump. Unfortunately the baby was still not strong enough to hold himself up and rolled back and bumped his head on the hard floor. Another round of wails arose and Illya still had dirty hands from cleaning up the floor. He took a deep breath and gave Rose a disapproving look. "Yah dun pick him up. Jes sit on dah floor wit him and I get meh hands washed." The girl nodded and did as her wolf said. Illya washed his hands and then came back to pick the boy up. How two kids could create so much work he didn't know. Illya held Cypher till the little guy started to doze and for a moment Illya thought that he felt strange. This was not the time for a seizure.

"Rose yah jes come upstairs and play where I can see yah." Maybe if he went and laid down for a bit he could avoid the seizure. Illya took himself up the stairs and into their room where he laid down on the bed. Part of him was afraid that he would drop Cypher or that he really was going to get a seizure. After a few minutes the feeling passed and instead Illya fell asleep.

It wasn't till he woke up later that he noticed his hands felt odd and there was a horrible smell in the room. In that brief moment he thought maybe he did have a seizure and he was waking up part way through. Cypher was still tucked just under his chin and he could feel the rise and fall of the baby's chest. Illya sat up and then he noticed the bright pink polish on his nails and all over his fingers. Rose.....she was the only one that would think of painting a person's fingers pink. She'd missed his nails in several spots and there were little glops of pink all over his hands too.

Rolling to the side of the bed Illya got himself up and carried Cypher over to his crib. "Kalizda?" Wandering down the stairs he found her and held up both his hands so she could see. "Dis stuff jes washes off right?"

**********************************************

Mostly Illya nodded because he figured he would have to know what to do with the engines anyway. There was an oddly familiar sensation about them, but he was still more focused on the calculations. He'd done them all correctly and even now he was working them out in his head. They had to be right. Why would she even say anything? It was wasn't like he couldn't do math anymore. Math was not something that left with the rest of his memory and he knew how to use the navigation equipment. He didn't remember learning how to use it, but he could sit down and just do it.

Once they were both at the little box Illya peered into the glass with her. It was all over her shoulder since she had her but stuck out and he couldn't quite get any closer. Somehow he lost track of the task and looked down at her. Momentarily he was tempted to give her rump a little slap, but that wasn't the best idea when they were dealing with engines and she was trying to teach him something. The moment was broken as soon as she turned and started for the tool box. Since she said she wanted the panel open Illya worked around it and pried the little window open for her and then waited. Kalizda was returning with a box in her hands and he grinned. Somehow that only seemed a natural response when he knew he would be standing next to her. Prime spot for kissing, getting close, maybe being so bold as to put a hand on her knee. They were agreed after all. "Where yah want meh?" Illya moved aside and let her pick her spot so he could learn this engine stuff.

Calysta swapped the tool box from one hand to the other and lifted it to the work station beside the glass panel. Why was he grinning like that? Even when she was teaching him the first time he was never so excited about learning the engines. Unlatching the box with a quick flick of her fingers, she selected a small multi tool and then turned to Illya who was still grinning like a Cheshire cat. Her eyes traveled over his face and she nodded to the panel above his head. "Mind giving me a quick boost so I can get to that hatch now? I'll show you where the regulators are which should fix our efficiency problems."

It seemed she was going to be the one to dig in the panel. Normally he would have insisted that she just instruct him through it so he would learn, but the opportunity to hold her was a little too tempting. Clearing his face of any expression for the moment he nodded. Kneeling next to her he said, "Yah sit on meh neck and I hold yah legs eh?" It would be a good steady way to hold her, get her up there and he could still see what she was doing in addition to getting to touch her legs. It was a bonus. Personally he was congratulating himself on coming up with a solution for all the little scenarios in one shot. "I like working on engines I tink."

Calysta smiled and turned so she could sit on his shoulder. It was good to hear he liked working on the engines already. Maybe he would learn as fast as last time and she could show him more of the operational side over the next few days. "That might be best," she chuckled, "And that's good. A decent explorer always knows the in and outs of their craft." Leaning gingerly against his shoulder he wrapped his arm around her legs and kept a firm hold as his stood up, taking her into the rafters with him. She held on to his shirt collar a little to steady herself and then reached up to slide the panel to the side, revealing the mechanisms behind it. With her head tilted back, her long black pony tail swept off her shoulders and trailed down her back as she worked on the panel. "See, this will regulate the power allowed into the engines. Its obvious these havent been calibrated in awhile." Shifting up, she stretched to reach the furthest regulator.

So far she appeared to be completely unaware of half his intentions and Illya was pleased with that too. Just as long as he could keep his hands still and resist the temptation to let one wander. Looking up he peered into the rafters with her and nodded like a dutiful student. She was leaning a bit awkwardly and it created opportunity for Illya to move his hand up her leg to steady her. "Yah calibrate wit dat dial dere?" For whatever reason he remembered that part, but he didn't know why. "Turn et ta 45 degrees and den tighten et ta hold position and second in line gets 30 degrees and den the first es 15 degrees. Always progression of 15 yeah?"

Calysta felt his hands shift up to steady her, though the move seemed to linger a bit longer than necessary. Thinking about his hand resting just above her knees, it dawned on her that he was probably enjoying this, though they had worked together like this many times before. When he mentioned how to calibrate the engines, her hands paused over the dial as she glanced down to Illya in surprise. It must have been something he remembered from their time on the Ekram, buried deep in the back of his mind. "Aye, that's how they go. Always in degrees of 15 down the row. The first one has too much and the rest wear out faster, too little and you starve the engine of the power it needs to respond quickly at the helm," she smiled. Mentioning the fact that he remembered something would just point out the obvious and make him uncomfortable, so instead she decided to finish calibrating the regulators and then tap his shoulder. "That should make things run much more smoothly. You can let me down now."

With a look of innocence he met her gaze. She was surprised he'd remember something like this? It was numbers. Of course he would remember it. Unfortunately the one thing he hadn't thought ahead on was the fact that she wasn't going to have to teach him and that meant that she would be done earlier. There was another hatch nearby that had the lube for the pistons that helped drive the regulators. "Eh...." When she said she wanted to get down he moved her over to the next hatch instead. "Yah check lube for pistons eh? Maybe good idea ta check et if last worker wasn't so careful." Sliding his hand back down toward her knee he grinned at her. "I tell yah ef yah do et right."

He was enjoying this and it had nothing to do with regulators and pistons. As his hand slid down toward her knee she had to fight the urge to giggle and kick. His broad hand was resting close to one of her the most ticklish spots she had, making it had to concentrate on a reply for a moment. "Oh..uh..aye I suppose we should. This ship hasn't seen open space for about a 7 months or so.." Pushing the panel to the side to reveal the lube reservoir and pistons, pedaling away, she reached up to check the levels and smirked to herself. "Might be a little steadier if you hold me here." With her free hand, she took Illya's and guided back above her knee, purposefully.

Illya smirked to himself. She was getting a bit flustered with how much he knew. It wasn't like she had any idea that he was actually flirting. Illya stood by just enjoying the moment of having his hands on her legs. He was about to ask her a question when she grabbed his hand and asked him to move it up her leg. Illya could tell that his hand was a bit further up then it had been last time. "Ooh...." It almost sounded dangerously close to being surprised so Illya had to think of something else to say really fast. "I uh. Tink yah know what yah doing up dere." Clearing his throat some he glanced up at the pistons and moved his other hand up the other leg. "I tink yah probably want bot meh hands up. Et will stabilize yah more."

Calysta felt his free hand slide up her other leg and she had to hide the growing blush and broadening smile on her face was by looking up at the panel. "That might be a good idea for more stabilization," she replied, shifting in his arms slowly, "Especially when working with these pistons. You seemed to already know what you're doing too. Maybe it's just a little practice showing though." Ensuring the reservoir was filled, Calysta check each piston for wear and tear. "The 4th will need replacement in the near future bu the rest are as strong as ever. Maybe we should check the electrical panel next?"

In a way it was comical that she was so eager to check out all the different sections while he held her up. Of course it was still better than climbing a ladder. At the same time Illya started to wonder if this was a bad idea. Was he being creepy by doing this even if she was his agreed? Obviously she didn't know that he really enjoyed legs. After a few moments of resolute silence he decided that it was probably fine. More than likely she didn't know and she was his agreed. Not like he'd actually done anything inappropriate. "Yah jes check everyting yah want. I gladly hold yah here."

He was going to stand there and enjoy holding her and she was going to let him for now. "Alright," she grinned, "Just be sure to hold on tight." Pointing to the electrical panel, he walked her over there and she popped open the panel, revealing a thick mess over wires. Using the multi-tool she ensured that the major wires had adequate power flowing through them. "All done, I think. Thanks thanks for the boost," she said before she bent down and kissed his cheek playfully.

When they were finished Illya carefully got down to a kneeling position and he let her off his shoulders again. Before he stood up she kissed him on the cheek. A little stunned like a boy he remained un-moving and mouth gaping for several seconds. "Yah get a little frisky dun yah tink? I jes hold yah up ta do yah work."

The look on his face was worth waiting to kiss him and she fought to keep her face from showing too much enjoyment. It was almost as if he were a kid again and a girl had kissed him on the cheek. "Me? Frisky?" she chuckled innocently. "I just thought you liked to work hard, but if a little kiss is too much of a distraction..." Then she turned on her heels and walked back to the control panel with extra sway on her hips.

"Ah...." Blinking a few times Illya found himself completely at a loss for words. What was she doing to him? All this time she'd been playing him and he didn't know it? No, it couldn't have been that. She just wanted to surprise him with a kiss and she had. Now he just had to keep up with the game. Illya wasn't about to be beat by his agreed. "Of course I like hard work. I like all kinds of hard work." Spluttering a little he scrambled to his feet and walked after her. Catching Kalizda by one shoulder he turned her around and planted a kiss on her lips while wrapping another arm around her waist and lifting her to more his height.

She was nearly to the panel, and it was all but impossible not to grin now as she listened to him sputter about liking hard work. He had no idea what to do with that. "Good because we have alot to-" A strong hand clamped over her shoulder and spun her around. Before she could say anything else, he was scooping her up into a kiss. With a soft squeak of surprise she kissed him back with wide eyes at first and then sank into his grip, her feet hovering over the floor. It move made her heart pound and her fingers curl into his hair. Apparently she had been more of a distraction than than she thought, but it was him who had rendered her speechless.

At first he was worried that she didn't like it, but when Illya felt her go slack in his arms he knew that it was a good thing. "Oh I tink dat yah like hard work too eh?" If there was one thing he noticed it was the fact that she blushed easy and it was semi fun to see if he could get a reaction out of her. "We finish real work now and have better hard work later eh?" Kissing her again Illya leaned his back against the wall and started to slide a little to the side before catching his balance while still holding her. "Yah make et hard to choose one work or other for a man." Kissing her again he rested one hand on her lower back and then set her down. "What yah teach meh next?"

He pulled back, leaving her breathless and pink cheeked in his arms as she kept her hands playing his his hair. Her cheeks grew even more red when he mentioned her liking hard work, but she couldn't help but give him a shy smile. Leaning them against the wall, he kissed her again and she urged him on just a little. Didn't he know what he did to her when he kissed her like that? He had her brain all fizzy and filled with things that had nothing to do with ships or engines. "I..I..should show you the jump-drive core," she stammered, trying to catch her breath as her feet hit the floor, "It won't take long to finish to get the readings on that. Easy work....for hard work later..."

Illya nodded a little and he followed after her into the jump-drive core section of the ship. This part he didn't remember as well and he had a few problems recalling the names of items in the machine. While they worked he gradually became a little more quiet until he didn't say anything at all when Kalizda would show him how parts were supposed to interact on the machine and the proper maintenance of them. Occasionally it looked like she was confused, but not about the machines and he had no idea why she would be giving him that look. He was concentrating and trying to learn. Being a flirt and talking was for times when he wasn't learning. Keeping his whole focus on the task at hand he tried to memorize the details since writing them down wouldn't do much good. Illya could manage to write notes from time to time that weren't scrambled, but it didn't mean he wouldn't scramble them later when he tried to read it.

Moving a little closer Illya held the belt up so that Kalizda could inspect the wheels. She suspected there was something on the wheels or they were dirty. Already they were going to be needing to replace this one, but it was important to find the bad spot before replacing it. While he held the belt up he reached down with his other hand and cranked the wheel so Kalizda could see. It seemed that the wheel actually had a bad spot. Trading it out was going to be a little more risky.

Setting the belt back in place and turning the automatic switch for the rotation to hold itself was the only choice for the moment. Illya followed Kalizda to the store room with spare parts and the two of them dug through boxes till he found the one with the spare part. "Here, yah check et and tell meh if ets good." Nodding he followed her into the jump-drive core again. This time it was going to have to be fast. They couldn't go without the rotation more than a few seconds. Illya flicked the switch and he grabbed the belt then pulled the old wheel off. Kalizda slipped the new one in place and the machine began to lurch in place. Before Illya was able to react and push the wheel in place for her Kalizda had given it a powerful little lady push and locked it in place. With only the belt left Illya stretched it and placed it back on the wheel. There was a lot of strain on the belt and they would need to replace it. That was the next part.

Both of them let the machine run for a few minutes while they waited for it to begin operating normally. It was no wonder the regulators had been out of tune. They couldn't afford for this kind of issue to continue. "Yah hold belt ready for meh." Carefully Illya pushed Kalizda a few inches away. He wanted a little more room to work and he was a bit larger than she was. The Chip watched the machine and got the rhythm down before he reached in. Illya tore the belt off and then he snatched the other from Kalizda's hand and wrapped it around the larger wheel first and then stretched it over the smaller one. In that time the ship had begun to tilt to the side. It was putting strain on the engine to have the work done on it while trying to compensate for the parts that were under momentary repair. This time the machine corrected itself a little faster and Illya winked at Kalizda. "I have smart woman for meh agreed." Both of them had grease on their hands and he didn't want to get her clothes dirty so he clasped his hands behind his back bent over so he could kiss her. "We done wit dis work now?" He was feeling a little like getting onto the hard work now.

*******************************************************************************************************************

The next morning Illya rolled over in the bed and wrapped an arm around Kalizda. He was thinking a little bit about the work and the kids. It was dangerous, he didn't know the place they were going and he needed to learn about it. While he was thinking about the kids he raised his free hand and stared at the pink paint that still remained on his nails. It was chipped, coming off in layers and there was a special stuff to remove it, but Kalizda didn't have any. Smirking a little he shook his head. At least it would be gone before they actually got anywhere.

It felt like Kalizda was stirring and Illya moved back so she had some room to turn in the bed. Since she turned her face toward him he kissed her on the lips. "I love yah." Rubbing along her back he would squeeze gently as if to massage the muscles along her spine. Instead of relaxing she tensed and started to giggle. Illya looked at her half in surprise. "What es dat all about?" Changing from a one hand massage to rubbing her back she relaxed again and he kissed her gently. "I miss dah kids eh?" In some ways they had both slept a little better and he'd had that special tea and herb. Illya hadn't thought that it would work so well and he woke up feeling good without the side effect of the sedative drugs that the Ehaui gave him. "I like dat tea too. Ets good. Well, nut good tasting, but I like et better dan Ehaui medicine ta sleep."
 
Working with Illya in the engine room had gone from very warm to almost cold in a matter of a few minutes. Her heart was still fluttering even as she explained how the jump-drive worked, starting from the core to the external parts. She kept stealing glances at him the quieter he became. Why had he suddenly gone from flirtatious to totally focused? Not that she minded him paying full attention to either her or the engine, but it was strange to think he had put her in such a mood and then hadn't continued with the ground work. Had she said something odd?

As he helped her inspect the core, it became obvious that she would have to replace one of the wheels and the belt which kept the jump-core processes going. It would be a hard task along, but with Illya helping it could be be done quickly. Rummaging through the limited spare parts section, she found a decent looking belt, the only one in the bin and and nodded to the Chip. "It will have to be done fast before the next rotation or the emergency response will kick in and stall us out of the jump." First, she waited till a new rotation began and then quickly unscrewed the old wheel, tugging it off and dropping it to the floor before snatching up the new one and shoving it onto the spoke. With few turned of the socket wrench the new wheel began to turn and she nodded at Illya to drop the old belt back into place. "Now the belt." He understood what had to be done so she let Illya take the lead on this one, holding the spare ready for him to pull off the old when the gears shifted and to stretch on the other. In no time at all, the ship was righting itself back to a level plane and running even better with the fresh belt. She took a spray bottle of clear lubricant and sprayed the belt down with a fine as it whirled.

"Easy," she smiled, taking a glance at Illya, "We should get some extra parts at the next port just in case, but the engine should be in fine shape for now."

"I have smart woman for meh agreed." Then her Chip leaned down and kissed her playfully on the lips. "We done wit dis work now?"

"Aye," she chuckled, "Let's get cleaned up and cook up some dinner."

For the first time in a long time, Calysta enjoyed cooking dinner. She asked Illya help her saute some of the sweet-grass along with some beans and peppers. He was always better at seasoning than she was, and he seemed to enjoy tossing the pan with the herbs in it while she chopped peppers by his side. His green eyes would roam over her and she would give him a coy sort of smile, letting him stay on simmer. They talked a little about small things over dinner, she even told him the story of how ended up working for Skycorp. "I saw the recruiting hologram and went to the office the next day. They asked me when I turned 21 and...and I told them 'on my birthday'. I just didn't tell them it was on my birthday 2 years from then," she giggled, "When the recruiter found out, I thought she would be mad. Instead, she just started to laugh and signed me up for a commission as soon as training was done. My dad was furious, but going with Skycorp was one of the best decisions I ever made."

When the dishes were done, Calysta figured it was time for more hard work, so she walked up behind her Chip as he stood at the sink and slipped her hands around his waist. "I'll come back and make your tea later, I don't think you're ready for it." He turned in her arms to look at her with a somewhat surprised look and she grinned at him as her hands slipped into his back pockets. "I'm not tired yet either."

*********************

It was the warmth that made her stir. A warm arm wrapping around her waist and she smiled without even opening her eyes yet. The night had been the best either of them had slept in ages. She'd made Illya's tea after a long hour of fun and then gone to sleep cuddled against his chest, both of them feeling relaxed and thoroughly satisfied. She could tell her Chip had slept better by his breathing, lack of mumbling, and no seizures at tall. Stretching a little, she rolled over to face him and found herself met by a gentle kiss, which she returned full measure before giggling. His roaming hands had massaged their way down to the small of her back where she was ticklish. "That tickles," she hummed, kissing him again.

When he mentioned missing the kids, she opened her eyes to met his. She'd almost forgotten they were not there. Her instinct had been to wake up and feed Cypher, but suddenly she realized he wasn't there. Her little boy wasn't there to give her toothless happy grins and her wily daughter wasn't there to insist on her favorite tea for breakfast. "I miss them too. Cypher was just starting to make that little laugh sound," she sighed , "And I had been teaching Rose to cook." The idea of her teaching Rose to cook was laughable considering she could barely manage it herself, but cutting vegetables with safety kitchen shears had been enough of a task for her to learn and be of help. Illya was there holding her, but pieces of her heart were millions of miles away on Pyrta. Illya seemed to sense she missed her babies and changed to the subject to the tea. "Aye, I think it worked. You rested much better," she smiled before giving him a wink, "Which means it's your turn to cook breakfast."

**********************************

The smell of breakfast was wafting through the air, and now that they had the ship in some sort of decent order, the finer details could be attended to before breakfast. Calysta picked up Illya's bag and plopped it down on the bed along side her own. If they were going to be staying in this ship for a few weeks there was no point in living out of their bags when there was a perfectly good closet. Plus, it would be easier to get their clothes out without having to wrangle around their body armor and other gear. Pulling out her clothes, she laid them on the bed and then crossed the little captain's cabin to the sliding door of the closet. There was a small hanging compartment inside along with a row of drawers for smaller items.

Pulling open one of the drawers, she found that it wasn't empty. Whoever had owned the ship before them had left behind their things, assuming they would come back from the Wilds alive, and the Pyrtan's had cleaned the ship but it seemed they hadn't gone through the drawers in the closets. There was a pile of multi colored socks and plain cotton underwear sets along with a few bras. They all smelled like laundry detergent at least, but she didn't have any use for someone else's underpants, so she grabbed the waste bin from under the bedside table and started unloading the drawer. Grabbing handfuls of the the socks, Calysta tossed them into the bin an then she went for the underwear, plucking at those with only her finger tips until she came to the bottom of the drawer where something else was hidden. Her fingers ran over something rough and she pulled out a red lace corset top. Holding up the garment, she looked it over with a bit of curiosity. Even being married she had never been one for wearing things like this. What would be the point? It wasn't practical and in certain cases the ties and laces were a hindrance. The item was pretty though and she couldn't help but wonder if Illya might like seeing something like that.

As Calysta pondered, the door slid open revealing Illya who announced that breakfast was ready. His green eyes landed on her holding up the racy little corset and her cheeks immediately flashed red as she froze to the spot. She hadn't even heard his heavy boot falls coming down the hall! "I-I...this isn't mine," she sputtered, still standing there like an idiot with the garment in her hands. Tossing the corset into the drawer, she slammed it shut and started toward the door, her cheeks still aflame. "Breakfast is ready?"

************************


Calysta sat in the captain's chair with her pad propped on one knee and Illya sitting beside her on the other side, her face was still slightly warm from earlier, but she had gathered herself up enough to focus on the task at hand. Illya had been trying to read over some things about Terra and given his last visit it probably wasn't a bad idea. "Henaiah said we would be meeting her contact in New Yerk," she cringed at the mispronounced word, it was hard to say in when her tongue was so used to Kaerelean, "New York. I speak Terran fluently, but it was a huge city. Navigating it was hard enough and now its going to be even more difficult given the situation. She didn't say what this Adam West would look like or where he would meet us did she?"

The name of the city was strange and Illya tried to type it into the pad, but he was having a very hard time remembering how the word should look. When he got something semi close it offered a link that he assumed would be New York. There was a giant picture of nothing but city lights and vehicles packed along the center of the roadway and people on either side. It was almost too much. Illya glanced to Kalizda and he shrugged. "Nah she dun say what contact look like. He tell meh his name and den we know ets him."

Calysta understood the need for secrecy because the contact could be compromised otherwise but finding him in a city of close to a billion people was going to be like looking for a needle in a haystack. She watched the screen filled with buildings so tall they touched the clouds. Kaereleans never built anything that big, they had flight towers and that was it, because to do otherwise limited flight capability over the continents. "The city is massive, so I suppose we'll have to trust that he can find us. William Yarbrough owns one of those big buildings..a skyscraper is what they call them. Its in the center of the city." She typed in the man's name and pulled up a picture of him in his prim blue suit, smiling and waving. Next to that was an image of his building, a sleek, entirely glass front that dissipated into the clouds. "With 300 floors above ground its one of the tallest buildings in the city. He also owns an apartment on the top floor where he and his wife live. For now at least." Another image popped up, showing William, his wife and a scrawny man in a suit sporting slicked back hair and...a leather eye patch. Calsyta sat up, her eyes wide. "Ayrn?"

At the site of the man with the eyepatch Illya growled. "I know dat man. He trouble." Clenching his fists he flexed them a few times in irritation. "I tink ets about time I kill him. He wander around and make eyes at yah and Cypher. Dere too much trouble wit men like dat. He knows about da Chippequoti and Moonshadow. Maybe he help dis Yarbrough man blame murder on Chippequoti. When I find dis Ayrn I tink he will be done living."

She frowned, and bit her bottom lip a Illya's words. Some of it was probably dead on and some of it didn't feel right. "We've known Ayrn for almost 3 years now," Calysta said, "We knew he was Yarbrough's son, and he is lecherous, no doubt, but this doesn't sound like something he would do. Maybe this is an old picture?" Calsyta clicked on the image and it expanded to show the file time stamp. It was only taken a week ago. "Its recent...but why? You two were working together on something when we lived on Nuen. He would come slinking into the house at all hours of the night and talk to you before vanishing again."

Illya frowned at her. "I dun know him!" She was talking as if she wanted to excuse him and Illya wasn't about to forgive the man. "Dis es Federation he work wit. I dun make deals wit Federation." Regardless of that fact he did have naggling sensation that she might have struck something. Ayrn had hung around and tried to talk a few times. Perhaps he had been the anonymous contact? It sounded so strange that Illya had used him and then again this could all be a ruse. What if the face that they saw now was just the way Ayrn wanted to appear? It was difficult to know and Illya shrugged his shoulders. "Noting more to say about him. We dun know."

Calysta was trying to stay patient but he was yelling for no reason other than he didn't like what he heard. She shot him a bit of a look with her grey eyes and then settled back into her seat some. "We don't know, but I think the guy should have the chance to say something before we go dispatching him. Federation or not." She knew he was trying to protect them and his hatred for the Federation was only increasing, but he would have to remember the lines weren't as clear again.

The fact that Kalizda insisted on talking about this made it more difficult and Illya narrowed his eyes slightly. He didn't really want to talk about this right now and it since his statement earlier hadn't worked the best thing to do was simply not to answer or respond to this statement. He would just have to decide when he got there what he would do though Illya was leaning very much toward the side of a little interrogation and then determining if he should kill the man or not.

His silence made it clear he didn't like listening to what she had to say, but maybe he would consider it. She had to wonder if Ayrn really run home after the war became harder. He wasn't exactly a hero and preferred the greater luxuries of life. Still, she had a hard time believing he would, especially after their conversation so long ago after they left Terra the first time. She had been under the impression the guy didn't like his father at all.

Sighing, she went back to reading out information on the city, making note of the fastest routes out of the metropolis and the most likely spot of information on the Yarbrough. "He's a popular figure there, and apparently his bid for President of the planet was going well. That campaign really started when his mine towns on Veyna4 were attacked by the Cirrellants. Ever since then he's been propelling himself forward on the brand of 'justice and Terran's first.' His company stock looks like it sky rocketed around that time too." Calysta changed image to a public list of companies associated with Yarbrough Industrial and Shipping. "He owns ports all over the quadrant and several subsidiary companies who run his mines and docks. There are hundreds of them. He's buried so deep, no wonder Henaiah wanted someone on the inside. "

***********************

Their first port was lackluster at best. It had been a small, out of the way stop to begin with but when they arrived almost all of the Terran shops were closed down. The settlers had decided to leave on account of the war and the sudden upheaval of their government. It would be safer on the home planet rather than counting on the backwards Kaereleans for protection. Those that did stay, were skittish even in their own shops, saying little to her and Illya as they searched for spare parts. They were dressed in their Terran clothes, jeans and t-shirts with jackets, but the welcome was still not a warm one. "At least we passed for Terrans," Calysta sighed as they returned to the ship. She ensured that they had been refueled and their water supply refilled before taking them into the air again. "The next port is about 2 days away. Elizabeth's home port. We should be able to get some spare parts there."

With the ship launched into a jump and the auto pilot engaged, Calysta slipped out of the captain's chair and started toward their cabin to get her info pad. They needed to read more on Yarbrough. The more they knew the better they could deal with him. "We can read some more before we cross into the Frazier Nebula, yeah?" Her boot heels clacked on the diamond plate floor and she still found it unsettling how quiet it was around the ship with no children to fill it. How had she ever stood the silence of being alone on Skycorp missions? As she walked down the hallway, the ship suddenly pitched and the sound of wrenching metal filled her ears. Her shoulder slammed into the bulkhead wall and warning bells began chiming over the intercom. "What in the Wilds?!" Their jump had been stalled and it didn't feel like the engines had stopped. By the sudden jarring, it felt like an attack. Someone had caught them mid jump! She scrabbled off the wall and ran back to the cock pit, only to be tossed off her feet again by another blow. Ignoring the sharp pain of her knees colliding with the metal floor, Calysta hauled herself up and dove for the captains chair. Already, Illya was pulling up the off board cameras for her.

When the image flickered on the screen, she could see some damage had already been accrued on the outer hull. It was minor, but enough to disrupt the jump-field. Beyond the billowing steam escaping into space, sat a much larger ship. Its scarred hull was a testament to many battles and on the side was a sunburst pattern painted in bright yellow. "Shit," was all Calysta could say at first. These were the Novas a large brother hood of privateers and pirates more or less that roved the galaxy. They didn't normally come to Kaerelean territory but where there was war there would always be vultures to pick up the left overs. Catching Illya's eyes, Calysta took a deep breath and looked over the situation. The jump-drive had been forced off line and all they had were the main engines. They would need a manual restart. "Pirates," she said quickly, "They'll try to disable us further and board. I need to get the jump-drive back online with a manual restart. "

Jumping up from her seat, Calysta started for the engine room. "Get ready to defend and watch for a boarding portal!" There wasn't any time to lose. The Novas liked to take prisoners so they could sell them off to the Myraxys and she had no intention of either of them getting caught.
 
Somehow it seemed that Kalizda needed a lot more help on the ship then she did at home. That was all strange to Illya. Maybe the kids weren't to bad. Rose was outside a lot of the time and then there was Cypher. Nothing was wrong with the boy at all, he was easy to take care of. Just a little food a few diaper changes and then he slept most of the day. Wasn't like he kept a person from completing their work. Besides the house always looked nice and she usually had food.

After his short analysis Illya determined that Kalizda just wanted a little break and he was more than capable of doing that. The meat in the sizzled and bits of seasoning began to flit around the pan. While the meat was cooking Illya threw some vegatables into the water to boil with the soft bread bag. He liked to have some boiled bread from time to time. As long as it was in a bag so it didn’t get soggy it was wonderful. Some humidity and heat would cause it to rise and it would cook, but never brown and seasonings in the bread would permeat the entire mini loaf.

When the food was close to being done Illya took out a plate for Kalizda and one for himself. Each plate was stufed into the oven for a few minutes so they would be warm and help keep the food warm too. That was one odd little practice he’d seen some of her kind do and he liked it.

Illya brushed his hands off on the front of his shirt before he decided to go get Kalizda. Marching down the halls with a determined stride he pushed the door open to the bedroom. She wasn’t immediately visable, but when he turned his head to the side he saw the scanty little red corset and a grin came to his face. “Dinner es ready and et doesn’t have ta be yah’s if yah try et on.” Pointing to the corset he continued, “Ef yah decide ta do dat I tink et would be nice of yah ta tell meh.” Her face was bright red and he gave her a broad grin then shut the door and left.

*************************************

The port had been less than spectacular, but in Illya's mind he didn't think it was a bad thing. At least they had made it without anyone stopping him or asking any serious questions. As long as they didn't know he was a Chip it was alright. In a way there was certain level of safety with being back in the air. Something that he liked about being in the air much better than finding himself at the mercy of some pathetic people that didn't understand war. Even if he knew Kalizda wouldn't appreciate the way he saw others he couldn't help himself from thinking it.

Taking off was about the same as usual and he couldn't see any reason to stay in the little navigation/pilot room. However, Kalizda decided it was a good time to do a little more reading. Illya couldn't really argue with that and so he waited for her to get the pad. He was still fuming about this Ayrn character and now was a good time to think about how to deal with him. All his thoughts were interrupted when he was thrown from the chair and he hit his face on the control panel screen. It lit up with the impact and Illya peeled his face away from it leaving a little grease mark. Tapping in a few codes redirected the cameras to view the damage. Kalizda was racing in and she saw the same thing he did, another ship.

Illya wasn't about to just sit here and watch for danger from a camera. He already knew that the best place for them to create a portal would be at the main loading bay. Jogging through the corridors he set himself up near the largest supply crate. It was metal and it would provide a certain level of protection. Anytime he expected to see men coming through and he knew exactly what he was going to do when they stepped inside his and Kalizda's ship.

A few minutes pass in total silence. The other ship was not attacking nor had a portal appeared. The engines had not yet come back online either to fill the silence either. Finally, a familiar crackling sound, like arching electricity filled the air and a portal appeared in the loading bay. There was no warning or hesitation on the part of the enemy as they began flooding through the portal. Some were humanoid, and some were not. A large creature with leathery skin stepped through amid his smaller comrades as the roared with the lust of an incoming battle. Stopping short of the overturned supply crate they encircled Illya, with guns at the ready. By the portal stood a man with sleek black hair, clean shaven chin, and a smirk set on his lips. In his hands he held a pistol and a metallic looking rope of sort. "Hiding behind a supply crate won't help you," he called in amusement. This was small trading vessel with a crew of four at the most and no match for their numbers. There was always one of two ways this went as well. The traders either surrendered and begged for their lives or they made things interesting and they tried to fight. Either way was fine with him so long as they got the goods, but a little fun might not hurt. "Come on out and make it easy on yourself."

Watching for any kind of portal Illya waited. It was probably best to play a poor scared guy if they were boarded. At least for now. Element of surprise was usually helpful with this sort of situation. Peering over the edge of the crate he watched the portal form with the sound of crackling and then he ducked again. Patiently he waited for these pirates to find him and they did. Widening his eyes slightly Illya did his best to play the part. "I come out ef yah make deal wit meh." If he didin't like the deal he would do what he had to.

The pirates kept their weapons trained on him and the man with the rope kept his position just on the other side of the portal as he started to chuckle. This trader sounded like a few of his other captives, though at least he wasn't begging to trade anything for his life. "You're not really in a position to bargain. Your ship is mine as well as its cargo and whatever crew you have," the man replied to Illya, "But I'd like to hear what sort of deal you'd like to make."

At the mention of them claiming the crew Illya felt his stomach burn with rage. Still he had to play the part. He would give them a reasonable offer to start with and then see where it went from there. "I dun have a lot ta deal wit. Yah got dat right." Honesty was usually the best policy and he looked the massive creature over carefully. "I keep one crew member meh choosing and ship. Yah dig tru and take anyting else dat strikes yah fancy eh? No trouble dis way." It would protect their identity and Illya could keep Kalizda. Then there wouldn't be any argument.

Already, the rest of the pirate crew was flooding the ship, looking for valuables and anything else that they thought might be interesting to have. Their hoots of victory and excitement could be heard echoing through the halls. The man who appeared to be in charge paced at his spot on the deck. He was listening to reports from his crew throughout the ship and it appeared that the ship really was mostly empty, which was disappointing. Their captive was acting as though he still had some control over the situation and while that was annoying, it was also a bit intriguing. By now most people died fighting or showed belly and gave up. "Stand up, slowly. I want to see your face," said the privateer. The pirates surrounding Illya motioned for him to stand, keeping their weapons pointed at him. When the privateer could finally see who he was talking to, he looked the tall trader in the eye with his mismatched own. "Interesting, but this ship and its contents belong to the Nova and her captain now," said the man, with a small smirk, "Offer me something I don't already have."

Naturally it seemed that the pirates were going through the ship and he wasn't sure if they were going to make it hard on themselves or not. Slowly the Chip got to his feet and stared the want to be captor in the eyes. He wasn't about to back down and at the same time he was slightly curious if they would even take the deal. What could they possibly want out of this? Apparently they thought there was still something to be had and Illya raised one eyebrow. "I offer yah someting yah dun already have..." Lowering his head as if he was in thought Illya nodded to himself and then looked at the man. "Yah life for start anyway, maybe I kill more yah men too."

And there it was, the same old tune he had heard a million times before. Sure, some of the traders were strong enough to hurt, even kill a few of their men, but there were far too many of them to let a single man escape. Rolling his eyes, the privateer sighed and looked to the trader. "And here I was thinking you might come up with something I haven't heard before. " Another report came through the privateers ear piece and he glanced up at the large, tan man standing in front of him. He'd been around a few places, and some of his crew weren't as well educated or traveled, so the word of a strange language being used on an info pad that wasn't common for the quadrant was intriguing. The woman they captured was obviously Kaerelean by the way she was spitting obscenities at them in the second boarding portal in the engine room, but this man looked different. His eyes were uncannily bright. If this man was what he thought, then there may be some use of him as part of the crew. " Hmmm how about this, you come aboard and work on my crew and I send this other crew member of yours on her merry way."

It shouldn't have been surprising that they were going to make trouble, but Illya really hoped they would have taken his first offer. Of course it sounded like a few others, but he was a little more effective than what they thought. As for becoming part of their crew Illya took a deep breath and pursed his lips as if he were in thought. "Yah have interesting deal. I keep woman. Maybe I work for yah, but she's mine. Nobody touch her and she share meh bunk." A little grin came to his face. "I like em small. Yah understand eh?"

The idea of the man's offer to him was funny in a way. A slave owning a slave was amusing and since they had been traveling together it might be easier to keep her in line if she was with her master until they could get her to the nearest auction. "You will work or be sold or killed. And if you want to keep the little thing around you're responsible for any trouble she causes as her owner," he replied finally, "You can come in cuffs or willingly without them." The leather creature grabbed a pair of thick metal manacles from his belt and lurched toward Illya ready for a fight or the order to stop.

Everything about these pirates seemed to indicate there was a way around them. However, that didn't mean that it was going to be easy or even decent dealing with them later on. Illya could have rolled his eyes when the pirate lunged toward him. Instead Illya motioned for Kalizda to come stand next to him. he hoped she trusted him. Fighting could very well have gotten her killed or hurt. "We go togeter. She es mine." Illya expressed thst clearly and stood his ground with Kalizda at his side. For the time he neither struggled with the pirates or moved. "Deal eh?"

The privateer had the tiny woman brought up from the engine room. She was pitched over his crewmans shoulder sporting a bloody lip and her hands were bound. "Damned woman bit me," the crew man grumbled and he tossed her down to her feet at the doorway. The privateer snorted as he looked her over. She really was small, a trinket really, but there were men with all sorts of tastes and there would be a buyer somewhere out there. Calysta walked over to Illya with a storm in her eyes, as she glared at the privateer standing in front of them. They had caught her in the engine room and she couldnt risk a fire fight in there with so much explosive equipment, so she had turned to hand to hand, which ended quickly. They had snatched off her necklace and hauled her upstairs like she was a sack of feathers. Calysta had no idea what sort of deal had just been made, but she knew Illya well enough to know he would do the best he could. It would be the best deal possible and she had to trust him fully. "We have a deal," the privateer smirked.

Looking Kalizda over the Chip sighed. It was everything he could do not to start a fight here. She was the only reason he didn't and Illya knew they would just have to bide their time. Before they were going to board he untied her hands and hooked the fingers from her right hand onto his belt. "She work where I work. Onleh way ta keep track of dis one." It was good enough for Illya if they let him keep Kalizda and always at his side. The closer she was the safer she would be. It made him glad that he'd left Rose and Cypher behind. Children could not come on these sort of missions for a reason. For the most part Illya considered himself nominally successful. He had bartered and got himself and Kalizda together at the very least. Resting a hand on her wrist he followed quietly after the pirates and ignored any sort of glare they gave him. In time he would turn them, take over the crew, or kill them. Some decisions would make it easy for the pirates or hard. They just had to make their choices.

Once they were taken on board Illya got a better look at the ship. They were taken on a tour of where 'slaves' were allowed to go and given a list of chores. Most of the chores given were those which Illya suspected no one else wanted for the time. Things such as cleaning the shower room, cooking, washing dishes, and then Illya was given a list of heavy labor. If they were going to test his strength and endurance they would have to give him more than this. However, Illya figured he could get most of it done and with Kalizda it wouldn't be so bad. At least they could talk. Might be a good thing, but he needed to ensure that their captors didn't know the Quoti language. A grin came to Illya's face and he started with a few words in Quoti that he figured would get the pirate's attention if they understood. "I'll take yah bunk, steal yah plunder, and soon I be captain of dah ship." There was a brief moment that the pirates around him stared, but they didn't seem to understand what he was saying. In reality Illya fully intended on taking over the ship. At some point he had no doubt that he would be captain or equal to one. It was just a matter of time.

Illya had a slight disadvantage when it came to the languages. The same as they did not understand him when he spoke in Quoti, he could not understand anything they said when it was in a language besides trader's tongue. One pirate made it his personal goal to give Illya commands in some foreign language and when he didn't immediately respond it would hit him. Even Kalizda didn't seem to speak this one fluently enough to translate. Normally Illya would have just complied and done as they asked, but the pirate was beginning to get on his nerves. After a second hit the Chip turned sharply and slammed the pirate into the wall. With one arm pressing on the pirates neck and the other pulling his head down it kept the neck vulnerable and soft. "Yah use trader's tongue ef yah talk to meh." Glowering at the man he lifted his knee and then brought it sharply into the pirates stomach. As soon as the man leaned over in reaction Illya let him go and then lifted his knee again and caught him in the face. "Dun touch meh or meh slave unless yah wanna fight." With that he pushed the man over by his head and then wandered down the hall toward the bunk room.

So far as Illya knew they were done with chores for the day. He couldn't remember Kalizda's fake name and he was going to have to ask her what it was again. They really should have made it something simple. Carefully wrapping his hand around her wrist he took her with himself to the bunkroom and selected a bunk. It was the safest space in the room by appearances and he didn't care whose bunk it was.

For the time Illya was only speaking in Quoti and nodded to Kalizda. "Yah get in bunk first. I'll be in behind yah. Can't have yah accessible to da filthy hands of dese men." Just because Illya had one code didn't mean that outsiders did. It was something that he remembered from the war and the pleasure house and proved it again. Curling around Kalizda Illya put his back to the main part of the room. At least she was protected from staring eyes and curious hands. Whomever he'd taken the bunk of returned at some point and nudged him. Illya turned enough that he could see it was the same pirate that he'd fought with earlier. Speaking in clear trader's tongue he stared the man in the eye. "Ets meh bunk now. Yah sleep somewhere else."
 
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