Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp (Tiva Boon Series Book 2) Page 7

  “You know, you’re a damn good fighter, Tiva.” He raised Cala in his hand and struck down at her right side. She dodged to the left, spun around and slashed at his midsection.

  “As are you, Adam.” She moved the katana above her head, as his sword came up at her. This would be her strongest attempt. Tiva clenched the hilt tight, the weapon almost touching her back as she prepared. She sensed Cala stronger now, she tried to ignore the feelings and then gasped as the sword neared. Each knew they were too close, Adam maneuvered to her right, she twisted to his left, but the blades connected with flesh, and they both cringed in pain.

  Adam lacerated her upper right thigh. Blood dripped down her leg creating a puddle at her feet. He was not without injury. Tiva ripped into his right arm, the dark stain saturating the fabric of his uniform top.

  “You okay?” he asked calmly.

  Tiva nodded and lowered her blade.

  “That was close.”

  “Indeed.” She smirked slightly.

  “It seems we’ve lost our audience too,” he said, shaking his arm slightly.

  She limped backward and cleaned the blade with her tattered shirt. “It appears so. Thank you for allowing me to use your weapon.” She offered it back to him.

  “My pleasure,” he answered taking the blade and returning it to its sheath. “So, on a totally unrelated note, what’s your favorite color?”

  “Black, mostly…”

  “Not surprising. It’s the favorite color of many. But I’m sorry; I can’t easily pull that one off with my eyes.”

  “It is slimming...” She paused and met his gaze. “Oh, I enjoy it when they match my markings.” They blushed before an attempt to control them.

  “Sorry, but I have a hard time with pink too... It just doesn’t come naturally. Though I did get treated for it once.”

  She turned toward the door, trying to remain nonchalant, but more to calm herself. She was suddenly very aware of him, her body responded to him despite the fact that she did not sense him. The feelings he stirred in her were apparent, but she tried not to listen to them.

  “Hey, don’t look over there. The view’s not as nice.”

  “Pardon?” she asked, turning back.

  “I said don’t look over there, because the view isn’t as nice.” He moved closer.

  “Where should I look then?” She turned and tilted her head up slightly.

  “Right there’s fine.” He smiled once more, his purple eyes locking onto hers.

  Tiva felt her heart stop the instant his eyes changed. He beamed with delight, her markings weren’t responding to her pleas to return to normal, and they grew lighter.

  “White markings...What do those mean?”

  “No, that is impossible. It happens only with a potential or when the courting ritual begins, or if…” she said more for herself than to answer his question. Her fingers trailed over her moons. That was not meant to happen.

  “So in other words... It’s your telepathic powers stating the blatantly obvious fact that I’ve been trying to make you fall madly in love with me for quite a while now?”

  “My markings are responsive to my emotions not telepathic…Wait, you are attempting to court me?”

  “There’s an old Earth saying…duh.” Adam pulled out a small piece of cloth from his belt and knelt down. Before she protested, he tied it tight around her thigh. He glanced up, smiled, and when he rose, he was inches from her. He spoke softly and calmly, and despite being alone he whispered insuring only she could hear, “All I want right now...is you.”

  His words shocked her. Here stood a man not afraid to speak his intentions. He knew she could not sense him and could have kept them from her, instead, he confessed without hesitation. Tiva’s eyes widened. Adam’s stare was intense, his eyes shifting to a much deeper shade of purple than before. Again, she felt her markings go white and she turned away. Only the soft hum of the holo-images lingered in the room. She stopped breathing. What could she say to him? Her lack of connection to him mattered little; she knew he spoke the truth.

  “Adam...I do not know if or how I can do this.”

  “Does it really seem such a bad idea?”

  “No, but, you will outlive me and move on.”

  “I know...”

  “The potential is supposed to be the one that you will meet in the Eternal Lands and be with until eternity ends.”

  “Is that the rule, or is that the story?”

  “It is what I have always believed...It is where my parents are now.” A painful sigh escaped her lips and a single tear fell down her cheek.

  Adam touched her cheek gently catching the tear on his finger.“Just because something usually happens...doesn’t mean it must always.”

  Tiva shut her eyes forcing the tears to stop. She was feeling too much around him. He was drawing emotions out of her she did not want to deal with. “It is all I have ever known, do you not understand?”

  Adam stretched out a wing wrapping it around her shoulder. “I understand and I know what you say. I have heard the same song in different keys. You’re in a place foreign to you, new customs, new types of people…it’s a lot to take in, but you’ve adapted well. I’d like to help you become more familiar with it all.”

  Without thinking, she leaned into him. It was the first time in ages she remembered feeling at ease. The arrogant winged warrior calmed her in ways she didn’t comprehend.“Adam…I need time.”

  “Not a problem,” he said facing her. He rubbed his thumb over her cheek and smiled down at her. His wings folded back and he gently took her hand. “I think we should head to the infirmary before we bleed all over the room.”

  “That may be wise, though I warn you, Doctor Hino will not be pleased to see us.”

  “Damn doctors, they just don’t get people like us, Tiva.”

  “I agree…”

  All the questioning started with Doctor Hino when they entered the infirmary. He was not pleased. But their wounds were mere scratches and the session was by far the best workout she had in a long time. The nurses tended to the wounds then released them, but not before informing the captain.

  Aliri cornered Tiva in the lift on her way back. When Tiva asked why she and the others left without saying anything, Aliri confessed their spar seemed more like foreplay than actual fighting.

  “Pardon?” she had said.

  “Foreplay, you know, getting in the mood for a romantic interlude…”

  “We were fighting!” Tiva choked.

  “Yeah, but the way you two were looking at each other…You need to pay more attention to body language with him, Tiva. You can’t read his emotions or thoughts, but the way he moves speaks volumes.”

  “If you are referring to the cut shirt, it was unintentional.”

  “Right…that’s what he said.”

  The repercussion s didn’t stop with Aliri. Raife, Emerala, and even Hemko confronted her. The former were concerned seeing the wounds he inflicted on her, but when she explained his injuries, they backed off. Hemko on the other hand felt shunned. As part of her security team, he wanted the best training she had to offer. Not wanting to hurt his feelings or make him feel inferior, she promised him a one on one training session.

  When the captain called her into his office before departing for Kitias she prepared for a reprimand. Instead, he asked for the details of the match and seemed amused.

  She didn’t mind explaining her actions to her friends. Tiva knew the majority of the people could never understand what her life was like before the Union. They didn’t realize how she thrived on fighting. Everything she knew revolved around her combat skills. She was a soldier, nothing more.

  The uneventful journey to Kitias was the perfect chance to get away from the majority of the crew. She knew Hill was a quiet person and not one for small talk, and the captain, though always interested in chatting, was in a mood and kept quiet most of the trip. Ranndom and Axium were constantly talking, usually about past duties, women, and oth
er topics, but as long as they left her alone she did not mind.

  Kitias was a planet of lovers and philosophers. They welcomed the Tolox crew members with open arms, literally. Tiva hid her amusement as one of the elder fox-men embraced the large Oninus warrior. The captain, though uncomfortable, made no visible sign.

  After a short meeting, they toured the first city headquarters and retrieved the application from the governor. Everything ran smoothly, still Tiva was cautious the entire time. She only began to relax slightly when the Tolox came into view on their return trip.

  Tiva followed Maar and Hill back to the command center. The crew began talking all at once when they entered. Maar raised his hand, and they went silent.

  “Caedm.”

  “The salvagers have destroyed the Grapper.” Her eyes seemed cold. “All ships are being recalled to Ovvella for an emergency meeting.”

  “Send a message of thanks to the Kurus for their hospitality, inform them of the emergency and let them know someone will contact them soon,” Maar said, turning to Emerala. “Hill, review the incoming messages, Nassut, full warp home.”

  Tension filled the air. More life lost. She did not personally know anyone on the Grapper, however others did. Silently, she moved to her station and kept herself occupied for most of the shift doing various checks on security fields, sweeps around the ship, and weapons inventory. Ranndom and Axium were patrolling, making their way to the detention cell for a diagnostic. The news dampened spirits, so everyone keep busy at their stations.

  The Tolox crossed into the Xatlo galaxy a few days later, the journey to the base required another ten hours of travel. As no other ships were on sensors, the captain ordered shift change. Not in the mood for any company, as many had been recently, Tiva retired to her room for the evening and attempted to rest.

  She slept for a few restless hours. Paced for another two then finally ventured out into the corridor, her destination unknown. She passed the crew quarters and gathered a sense of serenity from many of the occupants. When she entered the lift, she was startled to see Adam leaning up against the wall.

  “You are not sleeping?”

  “I was for a bit, I think I drank too much caffeine at dinner.” He shrugged. “How are you, Tiva?”

  “I am well, and you?”

  “Wired.” He must have noticed her contorted face. “Restless…”

  “Yes, me too.”

  “Let’s go to the mess and get some warm milk, that’s what I was gonna do anyway. It’ll help you sleep.”

  Adam sat down across from her sliding the mug of steaming white liquid toward her. She sipped it carefully and nodded. Glancing out the window, she noticed the uninhabited planets of the Xatlo system blur past. They were nearing Ovvella, and would soon find out how bad the threat of the salvagers was to the Union. It was not something the crew was looking forward to learning.

  “So, I hear everyone was giving you flack about our little spar.”

  “My friends were only concerned.”

  “For your safety?”

  “And yours.”

  He laughed and she smiled. “Well, we weren’t really fighting each other, I doubt either us would be walking if we were.”

  “Agreed.”

  “Anyway, I wouldn’t worry about it. Most are just jealous of our elite skills.”

  “It is not my intention to make others feel inferior, Adam.”

  “No, I suppose you wouldn’t, it just happens that way…”

  “Perhaps.” She sipped her milk again. “I assume Cala enjoyed herself?”

  “Oh yeah, that’s right, she’s been wanting to thank you for a few days now.” He unsheathed the sword and handed it to her. “Go ahead…take her.”

  Tiva placed the mug on the table and took hold of Cala’s hilt. Immediately, she felt a crushingly powerful mind. Her head felt on fire at first, but slowly the initial shock subsided.

  Sorry, I’m used to talking to Ruvy. The soft feminine voice filled her mind.

  Ruvy?

  Yes, Adam…Ruvy. Never mind. Hello, Tiva Boon.

  Greetings, Cala.

  I enjoyed our fight. The sword suddenly felt lighter in her hand. I can change my weight at will. Ruvy likes me heavy when not fighting so he knows I am near.

  He cares for you, that much I can sense. Tiva glanced over to the weapons specialist. He was making a noise with his lips watching the stars through the window. And I am glad you enjoyed the spar. You and Adam gave me the challenge I have been searching for.

  The people on your planet weren’t challenging?

  Some, but the only person who fought me without holding back was my father.

  Neat. Well, I don’t want to hurt your head, but I have a feeling we’ll be getting to know each other a lot in the days and months to come.

  I look forward to it. Tiva smiled and gave Cala back to Adam.

  “So, what did you think of her?” he asked.

  “She seems kind, and wise. I enjoyed our conversation.”

  “That wasn’t much of one, trust me, when she warms up to you, she can yak all night long.”

  Tiva chuckled. “I am sure. You two must be very close.”

  “Yes, very.” He ran his hand down the sheath.

  “You love her.”

  “Huh? No…no.” His hand moved to the table. “Well, yes, but more like…a daughter, truth be told.”

  “I see.”

  “And a best friend.”

  She nodded understanding, though his situation was much different. “I had similar feelings about Te.”

  “Your tree, right?”

  “Yes,” she said, surprised he remembered. “Though you are fortunate, Cala can speak back. I can…could only sense him.”

  “Seems like you’re never going to see him again, they didn’t chop him down or anything did they?”

  “I would not know. It is hardly a priority.”

  “Well, yeah, I guess.”

  “I sent a message home. It will be a while before they reply.” Tiva frowned; this was not going to help her sleep. “My friend, Neola, informed me I am the last Royal Guardian left. She’s asked for my help, but I told her I had to stay.”

  “Why?”

  “The only way for me to find those who supplied the Rebels is by remaining here. There are no means on Abennelp. Neola and the Legionnaires are building a resistance. Hopefully, by the time the numbers can help turn the tide, I will have found the aliens.”

  “And what if you do find them, what are you going to do?”

  “I am unsure, maybe cut off their contact with the Rebels. Return to Uucor and ask the Major to help.” She sighed. “I have saved the majority of my wages; I suppose there are many things that can be done. But, my priorities now are finding them and protecting this crew from the salvagers.”

  “Once a guardian…”

  “Yes, it is in my blood.” She smiled slightly. If anyone could appreciate that, he could. “I chose this life. It was not thrust upon me. Granted the setting I grew up in fueled my passion, but I did have a chance to change my path. I never once glanced down it.”

  “And I’m sure you’ll help your people, when the timing is right.” He grinned. “Besides, you got friends here that’ll help.”

  “Thank you, but this is something I cannot drag the Tolox or its crew into.”

  “Why the hell not? You’ve saved a few butts around here already. Friends help friends, it makes the universe whole.”

  “Perhaps, if the time comes…”

  “You sound as if you’re never going to see your home again,” he said, perplexed.

  “Though I feel secure here among my friends, something is lingering in my mind, Adam. I wonder if I will ever see my home again.”

  Chapter Six

  Tiva lay in her bed until the computer beeped. Her shift was starting soon, and though the ship was almost at base, she had plenty of tasks to keep her busy. After washing up, changing, and braiding her hair, she ventured to the mess for
something to eat. Only Vinni and Raife were inside. She greeted them both, ordered a pastry and tea, and hid in the corner until through.

  As she sat, she replayed her evening meeting with Adam. He never once mentioned the fact that he was still trying to court her, or rather, the humanish equivalent. She asked for time, he was giving it and enough space to sort out her feelings, though the more time they spent together, the closer she felt to him. While she talked with Cala, she sensed fleeting emotions from him. It was then Tiva realized Cala was shielding Adam.

  She longed to learn more about the man and his spirit-sword, but duty called, and she finished her meal and made her way to her station.

  Good morning, Tiva, Aliri’s thoughts probed.

  Greetings, Aliri.

  The group exchanged greetings as they began filtering in. Captain Maar was the last, and the weariest of them all. No one talked for a while. Instead, they went about their duties as normally as possible. Emerala had the base on short sensors, so Hill asked her to contact Ovvella to gain docking permission.

  Tiva noticed several other ships orbiting around the base. From the superficial sweeps, she knew they were prepared; most ships had weapons ready. The entire situation was tense, and the loss of the Grapper crew did not help. The Tolox docked on the base next to the Enigma, Captain Locke’s ship.

  The crew continued their daily routine, practically ignoring the fact that they had reached their destination. Emerala informed the captain her translation of the Kitias application was complete, and downloaded it onto a datarecorder for him to present to the Ambassadors. Aliri, Raife, and Adam updated Hill on the ships status, and Tiva sent him her summary from the last two days.

  “We are going to be here for a while,” Maar announced. “Hill and I are meeting with the others tomorrow. I don’t know how long it will last, but I want to make sure everyone gets some time off. Hill will send a revised schedule to everyone.”