Journey.odt 1



>>>> Journey.odt 2

Chapter 1 – Longnight



Once again Longnight, the many earth years lasting winter had our world firm in its frosty grip, and the ice was advancing across the oceans of our world Nilfeheim, the second planet in the Solken system.

These unusual conditions were caused by our second sun, a brown dwarf. Or as some Union scholars argued a failed sun and thus a planet. We on Nilfeheim called it Fafner, named after one of the Jötnar, the ice giants of our Norse mythology. Whenever our solar system reached a certain constellation, our planet was pulled into a period of winter, that could last up to seven years.

The experts called it an erratic planetary orbit

It was predicted by the same experts, that his so called variable orbit our planet described, would eventually lead to the destruction of Nilfeheim, an event though many million years in the future.

Still this was a beloved fact by every Neo Viking, the promised firey doom of our home world was seen as a symbolic Ragnarök and a mythical parallel to the doomsday our gods, the Aseir would have to face; and since this would happen far in the future, no one was really concerned about.

Today I would celebrate the seventeenth anniversary of my naming day. So much had happened in the years past, that made me wonder what life and the Norns spinning the thread of fate had in store for me.

In a year from now, I planned to leave Nilfeheim and join the United Stars Navy and see if I could not make true my desire to become a Star ship Captain. School was officially over. Ingve my best friend had left Nilfeheim quite a while ago and attended College

It was very early in the morning, as I stood on our North tower, looking over the turqois churning waves of the ocean, many thick and large ice floes bobbed on the waves and in due time they would join and form a solid surface that stretched from Mount Muspleheim far up north all the way to Bifrost island and to the edges of the Uhim grounds. The wind was bitter cold and tugged on my Fangsnapper coat with firm relentlessness. Just below me was the room I had grew up in, and all the way down right across the door to this tower were the kitchen facilities and Midril's realm.

I suddenly wondered if she already has some fresh bread ready. That she was up already and busy preparing breakfast for the entire burg, there was no doubt. Many things had changed on Ragnarsson Rock, but some had remained unchanged. Midril and her kitchen were one of these things.

To me it,it felt almost like yesterday when I fought the wild Fangsnapper in her kitchen, or receive the beatings and humiliations form the heavy hand of my father.

My gloved fist clenched around the pommel of Mjördaren, the sword my grandfather had left me, as my thoughts turned to Isegrim Olafson our Clan chief and my father.

Father had changed, ever since he was no longer under the spell of the Psycho drugs his second wife had administered to him.

However now that I was officially the first born and heir to it all; now that I was no longer really afraid of him and his cursed Steel cable whip. I also had learned the truth and knew much of the story that enabled Gretel to do what she did. All her drugs and all he trickery would not have worked as well as it did without the seed being there.

<p lang="en-US">In my eyes he was still guilty of killing my mother. This event that happened almost exactly twelve years ago, still haunted me in dreams. Dreams that still returned and the most recent one was the reason I stood up here brooding and thinking of the past and of what lie ahead.

<p lang="en-US">I wanted to kill him and after a dream like this, his fate would have been sealed if he had crossed my path. No longer was I a helpless child, I knew full well what I could do with a sword.

<p lang="en-US">However my hunger for revenge was tempered, even barely so, by the lessons I had received from Egill, the Eldest. The one they called the hermit of the Pillar burg. It was him who taught me to see things in more than just simple absolutes and consider the consequences of my deeds.

<p lang="en-US">Killing him would make me the Clan Chief and in doing so, burden me with this task and dash my desire to leave this worlds for many years to come. While slaying my father was perfectly within my rights as a Neo Viking and no one on this world would find fault in it. Union laws still had little meaning here, but there was a good chance that premeditated patricide could be seen as a reason for denying me the chance to be accepted at the Academy.

<p lang="en-US">Ever since I had visited that Union fleet recruited I had read as much as I could about the career I was dreaming about. One fact stood clearly out, the Union Fleet took great care in selecting those who finally received the commission to command a ship.

<p lang="en-US">While there was nothing he could do to amend for his deeds and sins, I had to admit he tried. He treated Elena like a real daughter, like the high born of an Old Clan should be treated,

<p lang="en-US">I still rested my hand on the pommel of this legendary sword, that had been girded to the waist of every Ragnarsson, since the first colonists set foot on our cold,wild world. It had last belonged to my grandfather Erik Gustav, High lord and Clan chief of the Ragnarsson clan; the representative of Nilfeheim who I was sure had been murdered far away on Nilfeheim because, he was the greatest obstacle of a large Seafood Company quest to gain our world and plunder it.

<p lang="en-US">While the actual Union Police investigation was still ongoing, they did keep us informed about the progress. Alyskan Seafood had hired a so called Solution Provider to gain possession of Nilfeheim. Unbeknownst to most of us, our planet was a treasure trove full of aquatic life and clean water. Not to mention untapped riches in minerals and metals. However we, the stubborn inward looking Neo Vikings were in the way, so they planned to start a clan war.

<p lang="en-US">Exactly these events and conditions were in a way predicted by my grandfather as he flew with me to the Halls of Hasvik. Back then I did not really understand it, but now after the conspiracy had been unravelled, his words echoed in my mind whenever I was thinking about him and making me understand why he felt his duty to our world was more important than being a Clan chief and staying home.

<p lang="en-US">Oh yes their plan was good. Who would have complained? Clan wars happened before and this time with modern weapons wiping out anyone able to resist. They were aided by the greed and the misguided ambitions of my step mother, Gretel Olafson.

<p lang="en-US">The whole plot culminated in a planetary attack as the corporations plans were uncovered and they wanted to eliminate any possible evidence. A pirate hired by them attempted to drop a Planetary Incendiary bomb on Nilfeheim.

<p lang="en-US">With the help of my friends we were able to stop the attack, virtually in the very last moment.

<p lang="en-US">We paid a very high price as my friend Astrid Mossberg had lost her life extinguishing a fire in the engine room of my space born submarine, the Poseidon.

<p lang="en-US">The boat was so heavily damaged it was not repaired but it had been cast in a block of transparent Duranium and now sat on a base of Duro-Crete in the former Aseir Park of Halstaad Fjord. The Aseir Park was now known as Astrid Mossberg Park.

<p lang="en-US">It was intended to remind everyone how close Nilfeheim came to be completely destroyed. The street passing Astrid Mossberg Park once called Siegfried lane was now named Erik Gustav Ragnarsson Lane and I was told a statue of him was ordered and would be placed before the entrance of the space port.

<p lang="en-US">Alyskan Seafood's board of directors had been arrested and and awaited trial. My Grandfather's lawyer Mr. Silverzweig had, so he told me filed for a civil law suit against the Mega Corporation as well.

<p lang="en-US">The Solution providers, maintaining an office on a distant world could not been questioned, someone had killed them all. The Union Police detective, a peculiar man wearing a felt hat, who investigated the case had told us about it and was certain, these solution providers had stepped on someone else's feet, perhaps rivals.

<p lang="en-US">Gretel was dead, and so was Lothar my oldest step brother. Tyr, so I was told now lived with a relatives of the Hemstead's in Halstaad Fjord.

<p lang="en-US">The ice cold wind was biting into my face, but I was not just ready to go down the stairs and officially begin my day. It was a Viking thing to face the weather and stand brooding somewhere up high and gaze across the oceans of Nilfeheim, in that regard I knew, I was no different to any Norse or to any Olafson or Ragnarsson.

<p lang="en-US">I took the Nubhir wolf mask I held in my left and pulled the hood like thing over my head and face. A beautiful and fierce piece of fur made from the head of a Nuhbir wolf. It had been a gift from Elena my half sister, she had made it herself and given it to me only yesterday as sort of an early Naming day gift.

<p lang="en-US">Cold masks and face covers were essential on Nilfeheim, especially when the temperatures dropped below thirty degrees on the old C scale. Some fishers, Nubhir and Fangsnapper herders down at Isen wore them all the time, and often used modern heated masks bought at Silverhawk's Emporium, but real Neo Vikings, those who belonged to the old clans only used the traditional fur masks, the women of Nilfeheim made from the cured pelts of Fangsnappers or Nubhir wolfs.

<p lang="en-US">These masks transformed men into almost mystical looking man shaped beasts and there were many stories of the pirate days of old when our forefathers raided other colonies and even ships; of the horror and fear they caused dressed and disguised like this with helmets, fur capes, blasters, swords and axes.

<p lang="en-US">Every Viking boy and I had been no exception often dreamed about the pirate days and hoped they too would get a real fur mask at Yuletide.

<p lang="en-US">Of course I had never received any gifts at all while I grew up, but this too had changed. I was certain there wasn't a more regal and fierce looking wolf mask for sale or made anywhere than the one Elena made for me.

<p lang="en-US">The thing almost instantly warmed my face and once again my gaze found the horizon to the south. Far beyond that horizon were the Uhim grounds, a region of ocean that never froze over.

<p lang="en-US">Somewhere down there was the Sleep Mountain my huge white friend, the sentient Tyranno Fin.

<p lang="en-US">I had spent a lot of time the last few month with Tyr riding on his back seeing or rather feeling a world completely unknown to the Nilfeheim Norse. As little variety Nilfeheim showed on its surface, it was rich of breathtaking areas below the surface of its ocean. Tyr was the largest Tyranno Fin in our Oceans, a huge white being sentient and alive long before even the first settlers arrived. Tyr had vast Psionic abilities and spoke to me telepathically, but now as Longnight had arrived he as most of the other Tyrannos had retreated into their sleep mountains and would spend the cold period in a state of deep hibernation.

<p lang="en-US">I wondered if he would miss Egill. The old man of the Pillar Burg had left Nilfeheim and was gone now for almost six month. He had taken Sif along right after I had married her in a pompous celebration. As it was planned we had not signed a Union civil union contract. Our marriage was legal only on Nilfeheim

<p lang="en-US">In our wedding night she had told me again, that she wanted to make her own choices as who she wanted to spend her life with, but we had come to a sort of understanding. The events aboard the Poseidon had changed the way we looked at each other.

<p lang="en-US">Just yesterday a message from Pluribus arrived. Sif had been accepted at a prestigious college on Pluribus. Her goal was to go to University and study political sciences and eventually become the next Nilfeheim representative, so Egill could retire and step back.

<p lang="en-US">She was all excited about Pluribus and how different it was from everything on Nilfeheim.

<p lang="en-US">Egill who had spend several month in a Saresii hospital before he had taken Sif to Pluribus, assured me that he was perfectly fine again and that the Saresii had found the problem and fixed it,

<p lang="en-US">He had taken his seat at the Assembly and he too was in deep awe and overwhelmed. He did not put it in the same words as Sif did. He complained and grunted about everything, but I knew how he truly felt and what he meant.

<p lang="en-US">So much had changed since my last naming day anniversary,even our Burg.

<p lang="en-US">Well Ragnarsson Rock that is.

<p lang="en-US">There was much construction going on. The Tanneries deep down would still manufacture leather and the traditional disgusting way, since it produced a fine quality our clan was famous for. However gone were the stinking tubs, replaced by stianless steel tanks. Only last week we received our first delivery of twelves S-10 robots. They did not mind the smell and worked around the clock.

<p lang="en-US">The Steiner and the Bendixen clan had been absorbed into the Olafson clan, and neither clan existed any more. However a nephew of Frederick Steiner, the man I had killed in a sword fight about a year ago, had returned to Nilfeheim and made an offer to purchase the Steiner Burg in order to form a new Clan. We agreed and the Elders approved and confirmed it. The sale of real estate, a truly rare occasion on Nilfeheim, a world with very little land made the Olafson clan very rich indeed, even without the wealth of the old Ragnarsson clan and of course not counting the off world assets of my late grandfather.

<p lang="en-US">Taking a page out of Brunar Bendixen's book, the Olafson clan was run much more like a business and we exported leather, pearls and crab meat. Father still insisted on hunting Tyrannos and Tri Fins, but it was no longer the core focus. Elena so it turned out had a keen sense for these things and was very active in these clan activities.

<p lang="en-US">Father had kept his word and technically abolished the class of Low men on our burgs and paid them a fair salary. Freemen and Low men alike were allowed to send their off spring to Union School.

<p lang="en-US">As radical and new this idea may have seemed. I learned that Erik Gustav's father, my great grand father had paid his low men and did not prohibit them to go to Union School while he was Clan Chief.

<p lang="en-US">I even learned that there was a section of Halstaad Fjord called Ivor's Village. Named after my great grandfather. A section in the so called Lowmen's quarters of the old town, usually a place avoided by Clan members or in my case not even known to exist.

<p lang="en-US">There Ivor had provided low rent housing with good facilities for his Free and Low men.

<p lang="en-US">There in the distance to the east the first strip of light, Solken our main star and sun was about to rise. During Longnight, however it would never reach the zenith and its rays did little to warm this planets surface.

<p lang="en-US">I was about to return back inside.

<p lang="en-US">Even though my ears were covered now, by the mask and the thick fur hood of my coat; and the wind blowing I suddenly knew I was no longer alone. It must have been the strange electroreceptive sense gifted to me by Tyr that made me aware. I closed my eyes and now I could sense and feel my surroundings clearly and in a completely different way to seeing and hearing, I knew this beating heart very well.

<p lang="en-US">Elena stepped next to me, and she too looked over the ocean. Her gloved hand found mine and then she said. “Happy naming day, my brother. It pleases me greatly to see you wear my gift. It fits you well.”

<p lang="en-US">I turned so I could look at her. “I never had one of my own and often wished I too could be like the other chief's sons. Showing up at school decked out with the symbols of our culture, yet I was denied all such things. I cherish your gift very much.”

<p lang="en-US">“You do look very much like the warriors of old, standing up here in your pelts and leathers, resting your hand on mighty Mjördaren. Your gaze hefted onto the horizons of morning and future. It fills my heart with great pride and love that you are my brother. Yet I know it has been the demons of your memories that once again disturbed your rest and made you seek the solitude of this frosty tower roof.”

<p lang="en-US">She wore a dark red cloak, the hood brimmed with the white belly fur of a rare albino Nubhir. Her face too was hidden behind the furry features of a Nubhir wolf. Her mask had a precious coppery tone.

<p lang="en-US">Elena was gifted with Psionic powers and could read the thoughts of others. I doubted she had been born with it and suspected Tyr had made this talent manifest in her, just as he had done with Egill.

<p lang="en-US">She enjoyed her new role as first daughter and father melted in her presence and I knew the entire burg had become fiercely proud of her. While she was technically my cousin by blood, as her father was a brother to Isegrim. She had been adopted by my father and was now my sister and I loved her very much. There were no secrets between us.

<p lang="en-US">“Yes, I dreamed of mother again, but say what gives? Why the old way of talking and why are you up so early?”

<p lang="en-US">“Seeing you like that simply called for the old ways of talking. You really looked like one of the warriors on the paintings and pictures that hang on the wall in the High Halls. I am up for quite a while. I wanted to help Midril in the kitchen, she is up since three this morning. It is your first naming day anniversary that is really celebrated. It might even be your last one for a long time to come if you leave next year for the Academy. You know how she is, the first guests won't arrive before afternoon, and yet she is baking and cooking up a storm.” I smiled deeply under my mask and nodded, “Aye I do know.”

<p lang="en-US">“Anyhow, ever since Isegrim made me his daughter, she doesn't want me helping. Saying that I am a fine lady now and all that. She loves me like a real mother I know that, but she can be awful stubborn like that.” Elena shrugged. “So I decided to come up to see if you're awake. Well I sort of knew because I could sense you brooding from down at the court yard.”

<p lang="en-US">“Well no sense to stay up here then, let's see if we can score some sweet rolls or something.”

<p lang="en-US">–“”--

<p lang="en-US">Interlude – Halstaad Fjord

<p lang="en-US">Hogun Olafson

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<p lang="en-US">==========TO HERE============================

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<p lang="en-US">It was one late Friday afternoon; father was actually in town drinking with other Clan Chiefs at Hogun's Inn. Even though Carl now lived at the Burg now and trained both Elena and me in Sword and blade fighting, he too was in town today. He had advanced my training to Rapier and Main Gauche and I was fighting with my new sister in the snow covered yard before the High Hall. We wore protective lather but used real steel weapons. Elena was learning fast and fencing with her was great fun. After an extended conversation (back and forth play of the blades) I attempted a successful "attack au fer" meaning I deflected her blade in the opposite direction of her attack and moved in and landed the coup lancé. My blade point sliced a little in the tough leather armor she was wearing and she stepped back curtsied and took of her fencing mask. She caught her breath and smiled." You are becoming a real master, Eric. I would be dead now! You were playing with me the whole time!"

<p lang="en-US">Even though it was bitter cold, I felt warm and bowed to her."Don't sell yourself short, dear sister. Your skills improve daily and I doubt there are many fighters on Nilfeheim who would stand a chance against you now."

<p lang="en-US">Her face lit up with her charming smile that made her eyes sparkle." There is no one left on Nilfeheim who could best you. Even Carl said that."

<p lang="en-US">"Let's go to Midril and see if we can score some hot chocolate."

<p lang="en-US">She agreed and then said as she walked beside me," Besides you are not as handicapped as am."

<p lang="en-US">"I sure didn't notice any handicaps?"

<p lang="en-US">She touched her breasts." I am talking about these. They bounce around a lot and it is not very comfortable I tell you. It actually hurts sometimes! I bet you be half as good having a pair of these."

<p lang="en-US">"Sometimes I wish I had, but I am sure there has to be some sort of support. I remember Sif telling me something about Bra's and maybe there is something like that for doing exercises or friend Siegfrieda has a hard leather armor shaped for women.m I ask her if she can spare one or make you one."

<p lang="en-US">She kissed me on the cheek."Lucky me, I have a brother that knows more about these things than some girls. "

<p lang="en-US">We entered the kitchen and Midril, who had raised Elena like her own, smiled at us warmly. "It is amazing what you two do out there. Everyone coming in telling me about, I bet it got even too cold for you two out there. Go sit down I get Elena some Hot Chocolate and for Eric I make some coffee. If you wait a little I got fresh sweet rolls in the oven as well."

<p lang="en-US">She left us alone after she had served the drinks as she was busy to prepare dinner. Many things had changed on the Burg. Midril's kitchen however remained the same and she was the undisputed queen in her own little realm. Elena watched her with a warm smile on her face." I do remember Gudrun my real mother, but she hated me because I reminded her of the things Harkun had done to her. Midril raised me after mother died."

<p lang="en-US">I put my hand on hers." When I was at the Pillar Burg and Egill, he or maybe Tyr gave me a glimpse of what it is like to be raped and while I was spared the actual act, to this day it has not left my mind and I can smell Harkin's breath to this day. Don't hate your real mother for it."

<p lang="en-US">She turned with her eyes glittering with moisture."I do not hate my mother but she hated me, sometimes I wish she would have been able to tell me otherwise. Harkun is dead and before he died he lived through every crime he committed. "

<p lang="en-US">For a while we sat there saying nothing then she said."Come let us go to the space port. A girl's night out. I like to go shopping and I would like to have Freya with me and we can remember the good times we had with Sif, Hedda and Astrid."

<p lang="en-US">I sighed." I want to be Freya again so bad, yet I hoped this sickness would leave me! I promised myself to go to the clinic and have it checked out."

<p lang="en-US">She got up." I think it is part of what makes you the person you are and I would be sad if you eliminate that part of you somehow. Neither Tyr nor Egill asked you to change. I am sure they would have."

<p lang="en-US">I sighed and got up as well." Well one time more could not hurt I guess."

<p lang="en-US">Elena smiled." I don't think we are too old for Retro Emo either! Let's go Sister!"

<p lang="en-US">Elena was now living in what used to be Gretel's rooms. It was completely re-decorated and Elena did not have hand maidens either. As always I got deeply excited when I shed my male persona and slipped into my female alter ego. I had not done so ever since we left the Bredenberg Burg.

<p lang="en-US">Elena also returned to her old looks, with the wild red pig tail wig .She had chosen a skintight black shiny mini-dress with a dangerous plunging laced neckline and a matching black jacket. Her legs encased in black fishnets and high heeled boots." How do I look?" She asked turning once around.

<p lang="en-US">"Like a New Age Vampire on the prowls for male victims, the other word that comes to mind has four letter and starts with an S and ends with a T. "

<p lang="en-US">"Perfect! That's exactly what I was aiming for! Now it's your turn and don't be jealous we can make you look just as slutty!'

<p lang="en-US">"I am not jealous!"

<p lang="en-US">"Oh yes you are! Remember I can read minds now. Not very good but yours is very familiar to me."

<p lang="en-US">"You know that is illegal. I wish folks would stay out of my mind."

<p lang="en-US">"Even me?"

<p lang="en-US">"Since you can read minds, you know the answer!"

<p lang="en-US">She went to her closet and leaved through her things." To demur, to small, to long…ah just perfect. Try this on!"

<p lang="en-US">"You are not serious?" I said looking at the red patent leather dress she held up.

<p lang="en-US">Huddled in long hooded fur cloaks with the hoods drawn deep we rushed to the roof hangar and I prayed that no one would spot us. I relaxed as my red Opel flyer was in the air and then I said." I don't think I take of the coat. I can't barley sit down in this."

<p lang="en-US">"Oh don't be such a sissy. You look gorgeous and just as slutty as I do."

<p lang="en-US">Again I could not fight the feeling and started to enjoy the feeling to be Freya and it was as always as if I stepped out of a cage and into a palace and somehow felt free.

<p lang="en-US">It was Friday evening and the Space Port and Shopping mall was very busy. The Space bus had arrived and also the weekend shuttle of the Miners from the mining Colony on Balder. Elena insisted and I did leave the cloak behind. I felt very exposed and kept tugging on the way to short skirt and hoped it would not ride up to far. Yet it was this idea of doing something forbidden, that electrified me to the core. Elena had hooked her arm into mine and we strutted down the main concourse. We weren't the only girls of course. The Space Port was still the meeting point of most women and girls, and on a weekend the more modern minded Neo Viking Families and couples of Halstaad Fjord came here to visit the Virtu Theatre or go to have dinner at one of the two fine restaurants that opened at the mall only recently. Groups of miners gave us cat calls and I could not help but enjoy every one of them. Elena leaned closer." See I knew you would get pleasure from this!"

<p lang="en-US">"I should not, but I do! "

<p lang="en-US">We shopped and while it was perfect, I was reminded of the others and of Astrid who was no longer with us.

<p lang="en-US">She nodded."I miss her too, but wherever she is now, I bet she would want us to have fun. "

<p lang="en-US">Elena purchased a neat little device called a shape field bra. The sales woman praised it as truly invisible and perfect for sports as well. I had to decline of course as she wanted to fit me one.

<p lang="en-US">I had no care in the world and just as we planned to go to the Coffee shop, Elena suddenly cramped her hand around mine, her legs buckled and she fell! The black shiny material of her back had a small burning circle! A woman screamed and I turned and saw Tyr holding the silvery weapon I had seen his mother use. He aimed at me and fired!

<p lang="en-US">Interlude

<p lang="en-US">Captain Dennis Miguel of the USS Bremerton had been called to Union Fleet Headquarters Annapolis City on Arsenal V. His ship was currently refitted at Arsenal IV and while it was not uncommon for a ship commander to receive such orders, he still wondered what the reason was to be called there. Especially since he wanted to meet with Lt. Commander Anya Cruse, he knew her since the academy. Even while they were lovers they never gotten into a tight relationship, partially due to the fact that he was a Starship captain and she was the Main weapon Officer aboard the USS Devastator. Neither one really wanted to give up the career they had. It was very rare they both found themselves in the same quadrant, much less in the same system. It was sheer luck that the Devi was on Arsenal IV as well. While the Bremerton was in space dock and tied up for six month, the Devi would leave in a few days.

<p lang="en-US">There weren't many reasons a Captain was called to Fleet HQ. One of them was to be stripped of the command due to some grave errors; another was to be transferred to a new command or to receive a promotion. He could not think of a reason why they would strip him of his command, and he was fairly certain he was not in line for a Rear Admiral Star. He would hate to lose the Command over the Bremerton. Even though she was only a Merrimac Class Destroyer, she was his first Command, on the other hand if they would offer him the command chair of a Cruiser or even a Super Cruiser he would certainly not decline. The chances to get command over a real battle ship or a Carrier were slim at this point of his career, but one never knew. He did hear the scuddlebud about the four brand new Battle ships that would be delivered any day now to Arsenal IV.

<p lang="en-US">He walked into the cool marble and brass lobby, with the warm wooden paneling. It was an impressive place in a very subdued elegant way. To the left a wall with the golden name plates of every ship ever lost. Like a giant conveyor belt the plates kept slowly moving up, it had to be many hundred thousand names. To the right a floor to ceiling field screen listing all ships currently in service along with the name of the Commanding Officer. Against all hope he paused for a moment and wondered if the Bremerton would scroll by. The listing was alphabetically sorted and currently at Letter K. It would take many months before it reached B again. The ceiling was a projection of the M-0 Galaxy displaying the Union territory in blue. He stepped up to the horseshoe shaped reception desk and a Kilonian with Lieutenant rank bars wiggled its antennae and greeted him. Good Morning Captain Miguel, the Admiral of the Fleet is expecting you, please take IBT 4 it is dedicated and will drop you of at the top floor."

<p lang="en-US">Captain Miguel thanked the Centipod and went to the designated IBT. He did feel more than a little noxious. Being called by the Admiral of the Fleet was very much like being called by God. Admiral Mc Elligott was an immortal and in charge of the Fleet ever since it all began. Over 3000 years old, first only Admiral of the Earth fleet but after the Union was founded, he was the highest authority in the Fleet. Dennis had never seen or talked to the Immortal Admiral and as he rode the Inter Building Transport up to the top floor of this gargantuan building of 12,000 meters height he thought hard if he had done something that would warrant the interest of this legendary, almost mystical Flag Officer.

<p lang="en-US">An officer of Commander Rank greeted him and said." Please step right on through. The Admiral knows you are here.

<p lang="en-US">Dennis saluted and went through a set of wooden doors in an austere furnished office with a modest old fashioned wooden desk. The Union flag in one corner and the Flag of the Fleet in the other. He snapped into attention. The Admiral of the Fleet stood by the windows that gave a spectacular view over the sprawling modern town below and the deep purple colored jungle beyond. The admiral turned." At ease, Captain Miguel and good morning."

<p lang="en-US">Dennis relaxed only a fraction and said."Good Morning Sir."

<p lang="en-US">The Admiral was not very tall and a little on the chubby side. He had almost completely white hair and the face of someone looking between hundred fifty and two hundred years of age, but made a very vital and healthy impression otherwise. He wore a simple black uniform with the five star cluster rings on his sleeves and collar, but as he looked into the Admirals Eyes he knew this man was far beyond the age of any normal human being.

<p lang="en-US">"No reason to be alarmed. Richard and I were just discussing your response to that planetary attack incident a year ago." The Admiral pointed his flat hand to a person sitting in a leather couch he only now noticed. Dennis could not help but swallow. The man so casually introduced as Richard, was Admiral Richard Stahl, another Immortal and of the same age as Mc Elligott. Admiral Stahl also called the Fist of the Union, the Eternal Soldier, the Ultimate Warrior and each of these names and adjectives he had earned twenty times over. Unlike Mc Elligott he looked no older than maybe fifty or sixty; he had short blonde hair cut into an extreme short Marine Corps style hair cut. His face could best be described as heroic, with a hard distinctive pronounced jaw line, piercing blue eyes and a scar from under his left eye to his mouth. Stahl nodded a greeting and pointed at a free visitor's comfortable looking visitor's chair.

<p lang="en-US">Elligott sat down behind his desk and a printout appeared floating above his desk. "As I said Captain we just came across your report and I am sorry it took so long. The attempted destruction of a Union world with a Fleet Weapon is nothing that should have been simply filed away, but raised many alarm bells."

<p lang="en-US">He spread his arms in an apologetic gesture and added." We are currently upgrading our Computronic Main System, but it will be a while till NELSON our new system will be online."

<p lang="en-US">Captain Miguel was not sure what they wanted him to say but he decided to be candid." That is a little problem we facing for a while Sir. The Information processing is taking too long and goes over to many desks without anyone having enough authority or the guts to escalate some of them."

<p lang="en-US">Stahl cleared his throat in a theatrical way and Elligott agreed." Yes Captain Miguel we are aware of that and that is why we are implementing Project Nelson in the first place. We asked you to come here to clarify a few things in your report and since you were in the system we thought we ask you in person."

<p lang="en-US">Stahl interrupted." Did you really write submarine in your report?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir. It was an old SII Mil Tech Product for the Markan Wars. Designed to be a Submarine and fight primarily in and under the oceans of these twin planets, but it was Space flight enabled to go between those planets."

<p lang="en-US">Stahl looked in the distance."Ah yes the Markan Conflict I remember it well. Nulofan the Fourth was finally arrested but only after he nuked the daylights out of Markan II." He refocused on Miguel." We got the reasons and the outcome out of your report. I am more interested in the details of this little engagement of Submarine versus Space Bus. That has to be a first!"

<p lang="en-US">Dennis actually laughed." Yes Sir, I am sure it was a first, but the young Commander of that boat has my deepest respect, Sir. The space bus was armed and carried a P Bomb. The Sub had only very rudimentary sensors, no ISAH pods and much of its space systems had not been used in 550 years and was on the verge of giving out. Yet the guy and his all female crew of three managed to shot the P Bomb, manual targeting I might add, survive a direct double blast of a Class four FTL and without weapons or shields left ram that space bus and basically plow right through it. No hesitation, no fear about their own safety they did save their planet and over 2 million inhabitants. The boat lost one of the crew, a girl fixing the busted fuel lines after extinguishing a fire and dying as a hull fracture sucked the air out of engineering."

<p lang="en-US">"Nilfeheim you say that was, never really heard of that planet." Stahl said.

<p lang="en-US">Elligott responded before Miguel could." It is an ocean world, P191 Culture, very restrictive on tech and very little contact to the rest of the Union compared to other old Colonies. Remember the Neo Viking Pirates? They came from there!"

<p lang="en-US">"Oh right now I remember."

<p lang="en-US">Elligott looked at a read out." You know they have their very first Academy applicant. He signed up in the Pre Pool program at the age of 15 and renewed every year. He should be ready to join this year and if I read that right he is the same name as the commander of that Sub, Eric Olafson."

<p lang="en-US">Stahl leaned forward with a sudden glitter in his eyes."What did the recruiter write he is interested in?"

<p lang="en-US">Obrock Mc Elligott also smiled knowing his old friend well." It says here. He wants to become a Starship Captain."

<p lang="en-US">"I think I will keep an eye on this Olafson!"

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 2: Consequences

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 2: Consequences

<p lang="en-US">Tyr's beam burned through my chest. It felt as if my entire torso was on fire, but I was alive. I did not faint or pass out instead I ran towards him, his face was pure horror he still held the small weapon but he did not fire a third time. I reached him in mere seconds, buried my knee in his groin and smashed the palm of my hand against his nose with the hope I would shove his nose bone up his brain! I was furious and kept pounding him until strong fists dragged me of him.

<p lang="en-US">Space port security had arrived and they took me and Tyr into custody. Med bots carried Elena away.

<p lang="en-US">I was brought to the clinic and it turned out that the water filled plastic bags I had used to simulate boobs, had saved my life. The thermo blasts energy vaporized most of the water and turned it to steam, which had burned my entire chest and face. Elena had suffered a life threatening trauma but the fast arrival of the med bots putting her in stasis saved her. One of the Space port security men turned out to be a former Low man of the Ragnarsson Clan talked to me with a snickering sneer." So the first hero of Nilfeheim dresses up like slut out for a cheap date on Friday nights! Who would have thought?"

<p lang="en-US">I was embarrassed and felt very ashamed. Elena hissed at him. "Did we break any laws?"

<p lang="en-US">"I don't know yet. The Chief is reviewing the security footage!" He kept laughing. "This is too funny! You are a joke! Oh man look at you faggot!"

<p lang="en-US">Another security officer entered. "I am sorry we detained you here at the clinic for a little longer than necessary. We reviewed the security footage and it was analyzed by Legal Central and you have not violated any laws and acted in self-defense. Mr. Tyr Olafson however will be facing serious charges and will face a Union Judge on Holstein Planet. You are of course free to go. We will keep you informed in case we need you for the Court procedures." Then he turned asked. "What is so funny Sergeant Offragnarsrock?"

<p lang="en-US">"Chief look at that dressed up Tranny! It's Eric Olafson, the oh so famous Tyranno slayer and world saver!" He slapped his knees. "I can't wait till I tell this to the guys!"

<p lang="en-US">"You will do no such thing! Have you forgotten your oath and training? You know you can't discuss duty related things in private and what you are doing right now is highly unprofessional!"

<p lang="en-US">"Not to mention illegal!" Said the Space port doctor. "What your officer is doing, Chief could be considered cruel and unjustified mental torture and I will testify to that as witness if they sue!"

<p lang="en-US">"I will take care of this!" The security chief promised. "Since he finds this so funny he will like the idea to be transferred to Pit Moss Planet."

<p lang="en-US">To Elena and me he said. "I was informed your grandfather is waiting outside to pick you up!"

<p lang="en-US">I looked at Elena and she shrugged. I had no Grandfather, and she did not know hers. I knew Egill called me Grandson because he was a distant relative, but he was on Pluribus as far as I knew.

<p lang="en-US">In the waiting room of the Clinic sat the Ancient One, the Old man of Muspelheim and he did not smile or looked pleased at all. "I brought a flyer to the entrance. We can leave when you are ready!"

<p lang="en-US">We went out the side door and he rushed us to enter a black Mercedes and I noticed Richard the swords man behind the control.

<p lang="en-US">Elkhart motioned to the back seats. "Go sit down you two. Richard we are in and ready to leave."

<p lang="en-US">Only after the flyer was in the air and he sat across us he explained his serious mood. "Eric did I not tell you to be careful with your desire? I warned you to go in public like that. It makes no difference to me or the true keepers living in Muspelheim, but this world is not ready for this. If this becomes public you will ruin everything you have gained! Our population in general has very little tolerance for what they think is not normal."

<p lang="en-US">He hushed as I tried to say something. "I am not done Eric! The practice to kill deformed or otherwise handicapped children is still done behind closed doors! They will ask if Sif had put you under some spell to gain her position and subdue the most prominent hero of Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">Elkhart sighed and dropped his arms. "You are a celebrity a warrior, the young ones want to emulate and they play Eric Olafson on the streets and fight imaginary Tyrannos and bad space pirates. Can you imagine what Nilfeheim would say if that comes to light? They will ask questions and then find out that you are not really married to Sif. Sif is not ready yet and won't be for many years to come."

<p lang="en-US">Everything he said hit me harder than the whip of my father and I felt very much ashamed.

<p lang="en-US">He sighed. "It happened in public and I do not have the wonderful mental gifts Egill or Tyr have to make them forget." He stabbed his finger in Elena's direction. "And you are not trained to do that."

<p lang="en-US">Elena cried. "We meant no harm. Eric's mind is so much at peace when he can be Freya! No one would have noticed or recognized him!"

<p lang="en-US">He nodded. "I am not blaming you for what you are or what you desire Eric. I do not understand it but you find in me the most open minded person and if I would be younger I might even try it for a change, but this planet is at the brink of a new future and a better one for everyone. Hasvik is suddenly alive again with many applicants and both girls and boys from all walks of life and social standing. The fighting schools are overwhelmed with young women wanting to emulate Sif and the Elders discussing openly how to integrate a few women in the circle of Elders. All this is thanks to Egill and you."

<p lang="en-US">I tried to make my voice sound firm but failed."What can we do?"

<p lang="en-US">He said. "Sigfrida has killed Tyr, your brother so it won't come to a court case that anyone could watch on GalNet, where you would have to go as witness. We will also take care of the Security Guard as he will have an accident. She is very good at those things. No one will expect Tyr's death as anything else as a suicide. For the Union the case is closed and they won't release any security footage or names to the public, that was all I could do, but I don't like having to kill people to protect your secret. In a week school ends for summer break and your basic school will end and Mr. Valthim will make you a citizen, after all your birthday is only a three month off and then you will leave Nilfeheim. Out there you can be Freya to your heart's content, Eric, but not on Nilfeheim at least not for a few decades to come!"

<p lang="en-US">I nodded. "I will do that!"

<p lang="en-US">He leaned back and smiled a weak smile." I know you did not mean any harm and I can tell why you like to be Freya. Your clan could not be in better hands, Elena will make a great Clan chief and break another barrier and you can trust her."

<p lang="en-US">She took my hand and said."Yes you can I promise."

<p lang="en-US">The next day I went to the Clinic and asked for an appointment with Dr. Dwyer. After a short wait, I was seen by the old Terran doctor and it was hard to actually tell him what my problem was. To actually put it in words was more embarassing than I realized, but then I told him and he listened to my problem. He leaned back and said. "What you call a disease or a sickness is a psychological disorder that occurs in genetic predestined people, well at least in your case. I checked your DNA and found you have all the triggers necessary for it to occur and this combined with your traumatic childhood most likely caused this.

<p lang="en-US">It is very rare in this form in the Union in general. The DNA triggers are usually recognized early and prenatal and if the parents agree they are removed. About a thousand years ago it became so popular that you could find a Gender Change Studio in every mall across the Union, but some made the changes every other week and that led to wave of suicides and psych problems."

<p lang="en-US">He folded his hands and leaned back." It is still perfectly legal and easy to change ones gender and there is no law or cultural requirement that tells you how to dress or how to feel or to what gender you feel associated or attracted. There are so much more curious things out there; it would not even raise an eyebrow on most other worlds."

<p lang="en-US">"Can I get rid of it?"

<p lang="en-US">His face became serious." Every Psycho Surgeon would jump in and say yes of course, a little psycho surgery will forever cure you of this desire."

<p lang="en-US">I said." Why is it then you do not recommend it?"

<p lang="en-US">He sighed." With all our knowledge and all our advancements in medicine, the human psyche is still not completely understood. Even if the Psycho hacks say otherwise. It will forever change your personality, Eric. You would no longer be you! Whatever you think about your desire it is part of you and you should aim to find an answer, a balance or perhaps a place to live that is less restrictive. I have seen the results of Psycho Surgery and without exception they all turned out to be smiling and happy but totally empty and hollow. They would display whatever personality the Psycho Surgeon thought would be good. This is my professional opinion on Psycho Surgery and I cannot recommend it with a clear consciousness to anyone. All this said I have not even touched the metal physical aspects of soul, higher awareness and spirituality."

<p lang="en-US">"It almost destroyed everything I had gained last year and it might bar me from entering the Academy!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am sure they have your last Medical School Exams on file ever since you signed up and they also saw the triggers, while I can't tell you if this would be a handicap or not, I can tell you that if you opted for Psycho Surgery, it would most certainly bar you from ever becoming a Commanding Officer, that I know for a fact."

<p lang="en-US">Interlude:

<p lang="en-US">Every fifth Nutho-Cycle, which was a calculated time fragments of a Galactic Year and maybe three or four times in the life of a Dai Than all the tribes would meet at Thana-Soo the remnants of their once proud and beautiful home world. Destroyed so long ago by the ferocious hordes of the Y'All. Nothing but fragments of the planet remained, one such fragment the continent sized Nak-Thana-Shoo, the heart of Thana-Shoo, was the site of that meeting. No outsider, no one not Dai had ever seen this place. During four cycles this place was abandoned and nothing would be here, but during the end of the fifth cycle the system would fill with the fleets of every Dai Fleet and Millions of ships, many thousand gigantic Dai-Mother ships would fill the skies and ten Thana Shoo days would be dedicated to festivities and tribe business. The Tribal Chiefs and their oldest children would come together in the stone and rock amphitheater on Nak-Thana-Shoo. A force field bubble erected over it and filled with breathable air. The Tribal Chiefs would pit their most formidable warriors in highly regulated and deeply traditional fight events. The warrior who won the most fights would be called Champion of Thana Shoo and it was an honor like no other.

<p lang="en-US">Tar Kar-Hi, the high Tribe lord of the Tar-Kar Dai Than stood in his Tribes stair section of the amphitheater and looked over the many Dai Than tribal Lords, either already in their section or on their way to it, it was an impressive sight, but in truth it was a sad one. There were still many but nowhere the number there once was, many seats remained empty and there were already more empty seats than occupied ones.

<p lang="en-US">Bor Hat-Je an old friend walked over to him and greeted him grabbing both his shoulders and Tar did the same to him. "Good to lie hands on your shoulders again, my old friend, Bor Hat. How did the endless darkness treat you and your tribe over the past Nutho Cycles?"

<p lang="en-US">Bor Hat looked like a brother to Tar Ka, both tall and athletic, despite their age. The arms bulging with sinew and rock hard muscles, the skin bright red and the oil black hair slicked back into a very tight pony tail pulling the already angular arched black eyebrows even further up. Clad in deep red almost maroon colored leather like suits with intricate stitching and carvings, lined beneath with micro mesh armor and fully sealable in seconds to become a functional space suit. Each of them carried a vast arsenal of blades, guns, mini bombs and other weapons openly as well as hidden all around their bodies. Prominent were the double swords across their backs, single edged monofilament swords. Where the leather cross straps met on their chests was the Tribal – glyph, behind it the disc shaped Alti-karr knife, every Dai could throw with deadly accuracy and decapitate an enemy up to 20 meters away. Above and to the left in richly marked knife sheath the Okthi-karr, which should never be drawn, as the knife was only meant for ritual homicide of a family member that brought shame to the Tribe. And on the other strap was Nak-Karr, the one to end shame. The knife meant to commit suicide in case of any dishonor.

<p lang="en-US">Hat-Je kept his hands on Kar-Hi's shoulders. "It was a good time old friend but the hunting is more difficult and more dangerous than it ever was. I must decide after this Meeting if I will relocate into another sector." He then used one hand gesturing over the theatre." Look at this old friend. When it all began 75,000 tribal Chiefs filled these ranks. Today there are less than 8,000 thousand Tribes left!

<p lang="en-US">"Mur- Yuu-Hr the one we always called the truly tall one, you remember him well seeing your smile!"

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi also looked over the seats and said. "I was thinking the same thing just a moment ago, and yes I remember Yuu-Hr. I cannot see him yet, he must be late."

<p lang="en-US">"No he won't come. He met the USS Devastator and that cursed Waste land Demon Stahl. Another Dai Mother destroyed with many children, women the old and young gone. The Mur-Hr Tribe is no more and so are two others I know."

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi was not to proud to show his sadness as he heard about this and added his own bad news "The Union is getting more powerful every cycle, not only did they add the Klack but you heard the Attican Commonwealth has joined. All 96 member civilizations went along."

<p lang="en-US">A third Tribal leader joined their small conference Tar Bas-Co, his thumbs hooked in his belt. "I heard your words and I am only here because I retreated!" He hung his head." I retreated and still lost two thirds of my fleet. My Mother barely made it into free space. I am broken it is too much for me to rebuilt! "

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi put his hands on Bas-Co's shoulders." Then join my tribe. I shall welcome you as foremost Lord among all families in my Tribe."

<p lang="en-US">"It will be then be so!"

<p lang="en-US">Their little group had swollen to about twenty Tribal chiefs and then Kar-Hi said." We cannot fight the Union, not even if we combine all clans in one fleet. It would be a mighty battle and cost them much but they would still prevail and there would be no Dai Than."

<p lang="en-US">Everyone in their round agreed. One of them said. "You are known to be wise and your tribe is without question the biggest. I will listen to your council, but what are we to do? We do not have planets like other races. We do not want to settle down. We are Dai Than. We are warriors, we have lost Thana Shoo so long ago, and we are a space born race ever since."

<p lang="en-US">Another one said." Maybe we must find a world and settle it, it is not our way but it will guarantee the survival of our kind!"

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi said." I see our numbers dwindle. What good are our best ships against the Terran Translocator cannons? Our best shields cannot stop these cursed weapons. The Kermac have so much more resources and yet they have not found a way in 1500 years to find a way to defend against it. The Nul, no one here will deny their strength and fighting powers, they will never admit it in the open but they fear the Union and most of all the Terrans."

<p lang="en-US">Bas-Co held up his six fingered hand. "The Xunx, the Freons, the Ferons, the mighty Alakarr, the Piostla all were mighty empires and advanced species before the Terrans ascended. You will not find a single member of any of these species alive today. They dared to stand against the Terrans and paid the price and I do not have enough fingers and toes to count all the species and civilizations perished and wiped out by the Unions mighty onslaught."

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi crossed his arms behind his back. "The Shiss once one of the most feared warrior races, a shadow of their former might. But there are the Purple throat Shiss, they thrive. And do you know why?"

<p lang="en-US">One Tribal Chief said." They joined the Union."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes they did. The Shiss expand by sending their lowest cast the Purple throats with virtually no support on the most harsh and barley suitable planets and if they manage to survive and build a successful, thriving colony , the blue and red throats take over, reap in the benefits and make the Purple throats their slaves. 32 Purple throat Colonies however wanted to keep what they had built and rebelled. The Upper caste Shiss reacted, and destroyed one Colony with orbital bombardment. Was this the end of the Purple throats? No! They asked the Union for help and joined! The next time the Upper caste Shiss came to make another example, they were faced by Union Battle ships and I know there is no one here who hasn't seen those sleek wedge shaped behemoths in action."

<p lang="en-US">"Today only seventy years later these colonies are thriving, and would be a great prize for any of us!"

<p lang="en-US">"And there are Shiss Captains commanding Union Battle ships!" said Bas-Co. "I lost half my Tribe to the USS Hyperion under the command of Captain Zezzazzzzz, a purple throat Shiss!"

<p lang="en-US">There was silence, now over sixty Tribal Chiefs stood in a circle and Cam Elf-Na who hated Kar-Hi as he had lost to him 10 Nutho Cycles ago the title of Champion, said loud. "Go stand in the middle so all can hear your words. It seems you have the answers!"

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi went down the stairs, past his oldest son Har-Hi who a day before had won the right to call himself Champion looked in his sons eyes and knew that he needed to say what he contemplated for so long. His son and the generations to come had a right to live and assure the survival of the Dai Than.

<p lang="en-US">He reached the center of the Amphitheater and spoke. "Look around you, look beside you and see the empty seats. There are more now as there were at the last meeting and there will be even more during the next. We are a mighty race and few equal us in fighting skills and valor, but it takes us much longer to built ships as we take the resources we need, from others. This is our way! They call us Dai Pirates and equal us with criminals. It mattered little to us what other's called us in the past, but now we are facing an enemy who kills and destroys any Dai on sight, be it a single individual or an entire Tribe. There is not one among us who can deny their ships grow bigger and stronger, their weapons and shields getting better and their territory expands every time you hear. What was Free space yesterday suddenly is Union Space. But not just the Union, the Kermac and their thrall species also make it harder for us to take what we need."

<p lang="en-US">He saw that many who listened nodded.

<p lang="en-US">"Those who know me will attest I am no coward and have fought many hard battles both in the Arena and with my ships, but I too did not manage to attain all the resources I need to feed my Tribe, to built new ships or find the leisure to pause and give scientists the chance to research and improve our technology. "

<p lang="en-US">He came to the hardest part of his speech, and he knew it would change his fate and that of his clan forever and most likely would change Dai Than history forever, but he steeled himself. "One Nutho Cycle ago, an epidemic disease of unknown origin was killing many of my tribe and my Medical Staff did not know what to do to stop it. I decided to cross Union Space to reach Kartanian space. In the hope their scientists had a solution or cure. Going around Union space would have taken too long.

<p lang="en-US">There was dead silence in the ranks of the Chiefs as they listened to Kar-Hi's story.

<p lang="en-US">"I was less than a Light Nutho away from Kartanian space when we were engaged by the USS Devastator and five Union Battle ships, part of their First Fleet, with the rest of it approaching fast!

<p lang="en-US">Our worst enemy as always hailed us first to surrender and I simply told him, that I was not out to attack a colony or planetary system, but needed urgent medical help from the Kartanian. Do you know what our worst enemy did then?"

<p lang="en-US">It was Bas-Co who spoke. "He is our worst enemy but he has honor. He let you pass."

<p lang="en-US">"No my friend, he offered a Flag of truce and six Union Hospital ships arrived within the hour. Within the same day they had isolated the cause, and treated every one of us. There was not one word of hate or disrespect spoken by any of them and not a single weapon or bomb had been brought to our ships. They simply accepted my word that I would honor the truce as well!"

<p lang="en-US">A Clan chief Kar-Hi did not know said. "I will leave this meeting right now. My tribe too suffers from a deadly fever we cannot control. I do not care if you call me a coward or a traitor, or even Okthi-Dai! I will ask the Union for help. My Tribes well being comes first!"

<p lang="en-US">Many agreed and many called that chief Okthi-Dai, Outcast!

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi raised his arms and it became quiet again." We have three options as a species. We can leave this area of space and see if we can find better conditions across this Star spiral, we can continue to fight and raid and be decimated and go the same way as the Xunx, the Freons and all the others, or we can do as the Purple throat Shiss did and join the Union. I was assured that on the day we Dai become members, our past is forgotten and a new chapter is written. Instead of being decimated by Translocator canons we will have them aboard our ships and if there is one to be said about the Terrans and the Union, they keep picking fights and we can do what we always do, with our ships refurbished, repaired, equipped with their marvelous instantaneous communication and our children, the old and our families safe. I have made that decision for my tribe. You may join me or call me Okthi-Dai but after this Meeting my tribe will head for Union space."

<p lang="en-US">Almost instantly about 1500 clan chiefs stood marched down and stood behind Kar-Hi. The rest however started chanting Okthi-Dai, led into the chant by Kar-Hi's old rival, Cam Elf-Na. His old rival now raised his hands and the chanting died down." By the ancient traditions this place is sacred and only ritual fights may be fought. You and your cowardly followers may leave, but as soon as you have left this most holy of places and you are beyond our Old suns circle we will hunt you down, destroy every one of you as there is nothing more disgusting than an Okthi-Dai who is alive!"

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi responded. "Then so be it! Let it be known I already have applied for Union membership and I have not only gained access to free medicine but other Union tech that will make this a costly hunt for the intended hunter."

<p lang="en-US">Kar-Hi left the circle and then put his hands on Har-Hi's shoulder. "I have done this for you and the ones that come after you."

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 3: Orphan

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 3 - Orphan

<p lang="en-US">Elena and I stood by the large View ports looking over the snow covered landing field. The space bus was sitting on its single landing foot and a flexible covered gangway attached it to the terminal.

<p lang="en-US">Only ten days ago Elena had surprised us all as she killed three raging Fangsnapper bulls the old traditional way with the Hunting spear. Wtnessed by three elders and asked to be given the Ancient Challenge. Armin Thingsdal actually challenged her and she cut of both of his hands in the fight and was declared a Warrior. Father then revealed to us that Harkun was his half brother making Elena a real Cousin of mine and he declared that her feats could be explained due to the fact she had Olafson blood in her veins.

<p lang="en-US">Elena became more beautiful every day. She wore black knee high boots red leather pants and shirt over a sweeping fur rimmed cape with the Olafson Wolf heads on the back. The leather modeled her body in a very appealing way. Her rich thick black hair contrasted in a lovely way with her blue eyes and rosy complexion. I was very proud of my Sister. On her hip hung Hevnen, father said she had earned the right to wear it.

<p lang="en-US">With us also were Uncle Hogun, Aunt Freydis. the Ancient and Siegfrieda. The almost two meter tall blonde in her black leather outfit and fur cloak and the long blond braids reaching almost to her hips looked very much like a real Valkyrie and she turned every head. She had started to train Elena about two weeks ago and the two had become friends.

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun gave one of his trademark bear hugs and then stomped away. Aunt Freydis whispered ." Don't think bad of him. He is a big tough Fangsnapper on the outside, but soft as kitten on the inside. he didn't want anyone to see him cry. He hates to say good bye."

<p lang="en-US">"I know Aunt Freydis."

<p lang="en-US">She shook my hand. "Keep your honor as you always have and do what your heart tells you to do, sometimes the heart is a better councilor than the mind." She then followed her huge husband.

<p lang="en-US">The Old Keeper took my underarm and said." Be careful out there Eric. I traveled a bit last year and will do so again as soon as I can. I tell you this Galaxy of ours is a marvelous place and you will see amazing sights, but it can be a much more dangerous as a Rock shark infested stretch of ocean."

<p lang="en-US">I nodded." I try to be careful."

<p lang="en-US">Siegfrieda pointed at Mördaren I was wearing." Even though there aren't many your equal with this on Nilfeheim. Out there a simple steel sword is not even considered a weapon anymore. Don't try to pick any fights with someone having a gun."

<p lang="en-US">"I am only wearing it for the benefit of Lars Igvarhein standing over there. Father asked me to wear Clan colors and the sword. I am not planning to stand out like a sore thumb and advertise to everyone I am a Neo Viking Primitive of Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">She actually had to bend down to kiss me on the forehead. With her I always felt like a child again.

<p lang="en-US">Father did not come. He disapproved of me going off world and seeking to become a fleet officer and handed Elena the Clan ring in a symbolic gesture. Of course this was perfectly fine with me.

<p lang="en-US">She embraced me with a tight hug and she felt wonderful and smelled of shampoo, fine soap, a hint of perfume and warm leather. "Don't you worry, you are the first born and I won't take anything away from you!" "Sister, I am so proud of you. I never really wanted to be a Clan leader. You are everything the Olafson clan needs and so much more. You look regal and stunning at the same time, you are smarter than me, have a knack for business and Father is melting every time you there."

<p lang="en-US">"I love you my Brother. Always have. Be safe and write or call once in a while."

<p lang="en-US">I promised.

<p lang="en-US">A voice blared." Last boarding call for Grey Lines coach 554. All passengers please come to the boarding gate two in the Grey Lines Lobby. Last…"

<p lang="en-US">She kissed me warmly on the lips closed her eyes. "You better go now, I might change my mind and not let go!"

<p lang="en-US">I brushed a strain of shiny black hair from her forehead kissed her and went to the lobby.

<p lang="en-US">Lars now had a partner, instead of a cheap hover cam and directed his Cam-man behind me." Eric Olafson, foremost hero of Nilfeheim is leaving our world today to further his education off planet. Eric you still have a few minutes, would you mind answering a few questions?"

<p lang="en-US">"Lars I am not much for interviews and all this high browed media stuff and I do have a bus to catch!"

<p lang="en-US">"Who is this stunning blonde with your magnificent Warrior Sister? I am getting calls from all over Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">"A close friend. It is not very manly or very honorable to call in. Whoever is interested in Siegfrieda should come forward and ask her. This is the Nilfeheim way."

<p lang="en-US">I was halfway in the Lobby and Lars followed me." There are rumors your sister might be the next Clan Chief of the mightiest clan, is that true?"

<p lang="en-US">"There is only one Clan chief and that is Isegrim my father. He is healthy and full of strength and if you make news out of rumors. I will challenge you!"

<p lang="en-US">Lars stepped back." It is my duty to follow up on rumors. There is a rumor that your sister and an unidentified woman dressed inappropriately killed Tyr Olafson. What do you say?"

<p lang="en-US">I slammed my fist as hard as I possibly could into his stomach and then hit his chin with an upper cut that send him to the floor. "I hope your cam – man got that too! If you ever dishonor my sister or spread unsubstantiated rumors or accusations about her or the Olafson clan again, I come back faster than you can say Olafson and kill you without mercy, do you understand?"

<p lang="en-US">He spat blood wiped his mouth and nodded.

<p lang="en-US">I made it as last passenger to the Boarding gate and the Security Officer at the Gate asked me to present my brand new CIT implanted (Citizen Identification Tag) under the skin of my right arm. Mr. Valthim had made me a citizen and handed me my final Basic School scores only 6 days ago.

<p lang="en-US">A slide belt, the only one I knew of on Nilfeheim carried me through the flexible connector tunnel to the Space Bus.

<p lang="en-US">A robot greeted me at the Airlock." Good afternoon Citizen. Welcome aboard Gray Lines Coach 554. Your seat is upper deck, outmost starboard row seat 44A; please follow the blue pulse light to your seat."

<p lang="en-US">A blue blinking light appeared on the floor and guided me up a flight of stairs to a window seat.

<p lang="en-US">I took the fur coat off and the sword belt stowed it in my seat locker and sat down. From the view port I could see the Space port building and I hoped I would see Elena and the others, but all I saw was the reflection of the space bus and the gray sky of Nilfeheim.

<p lang="en-US">After a few moments the air pressure changed a little and the air started to smell different. A Leg less robot floated down the middle isle." Captain Ruthneck and his crew would like to welcome you aboard Coach 554 Afghan. Please familiarize yourself with the safety features aboard. In the event of a catastrophic hull breach your seat will activate its Life capsule mode, please make sure you have all limbs and other body parts inside the yellow outline around your seat at all times. You will find emergency space suits under your seats. Non humanoid species should ask one of the robots for an appropriate model. The consummation of tox drinks and legal drugs are permitted only while the bus is in space. Due to the various local laws to these matters, Gray Lines generally prohibits these activities while landed.

<p lang="en-US">Our next destination will be System Lichthaus and the planet Holstein. We will arrive at Holstein. Estimated time of arrival will be 16:04 or in about 2 hours and 12 minutes.

<p lang="en-US">The on board restaurant welcomes you to try our various menu offerings. Have a pleasant flight."

<p lang="en-US">We lifted off and the space port, Halstaad Fjord disappeared fast beneath us and behind the low heavy cloud cover.

<p lang="en-US">Then we were through the atmosphere and the Leyland accelerated and after about eight minutes, the stars suddenly disappeared, and the background hum of the engines changed to a faint whistling sound then the stars reappeared. The bus went past the Transdim threshold and slipped into quasi space, the thin layer between real space and the next continuum, where faster than light travel was possible and time did not exist. Inside the ISAH field we brought our own time with us.

<p lang="en-US">The viewports showed a simulated view of real space seen by Trans layer sensors. Humans and all known species had no sensory organs or means to perceive Quasi space. From the brochure displayed in the field screen before me I learned that the space bus service was heavily subsidized by the government. There were other, faster ways to travel of course, space busses offered very little comfort or luxuries and offered no separate luxury accommodations, but no other travel service existed that reached all occupied worlds and places in the Union and for little money. It was intended to facilitate the easy interaction between all Union worlds. A Grandmother could easily visit her grandchildren clear across the Union for less than hundred Credits. Students could travel to visit other places and tourists could visit every point of interest. The space bus service and the instantaneous cheap communication available to all Union citizens were considered the main reason why the Union existed for over 2800 years and kept on growing. Not even the furthest fringe world colony would feel cut off and Colonist revolts that were a common occurrence in many other multi culture Trans galactic cultures had never happened in the Union.

<p lang="en-US">I looked around and didn't see many passengers. Even thought the bus could accommodate over 1000 travelers.

<p lang="en-US">The multi entertainment unit mounted in the backrest of the seat before me flashed with the GalNet logo." Mr. Olafson you have a call from user identified as Mr. Silverzweig."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I accept."

<p lang="en-US">"My grandfather's old friend and legal advisor appeared and said." Shalom Eric! You left faster than I expected. I wanted to see you on Nilfeheim regarding your Inheritance. Your Grandfather wanted me to give you a recording and you now have complete access and control over the funds he left you."

<p lang="en-US">"I forgot all about that, Mr. Silverzweig. Can I see the recording from here?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I uploaded it to your PDD if you have one."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I do."

<p lang="en-US">I held my PDD net to the GalNet terminal, the connection was made and the file transferred. The lawyer nodded pleased and then said." I took the freedom to invest your inheritance and retained a portion of the stock in your late Grandfathers Company for you and it keeps earning you a little money on the side. You are quite a wealthy individual now and if you like I offer you my continuous services as financial and legal advisor."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Mr. Silverzweig I like that a lot. I would have asked you that if you had not offered."

<p lang="en-US">"In this case I suggest transferring only 1 billion in your private use account and letting the other 2.2 billion work for you."

<p lang="en-US">"Mr. Silverzweig. To me 100 Credits is a lot of money and I can't grasp the idea of having that much money. There is nothing I really need, other then maybe some less auspicious clothing, and a GalNet enabled PDD. Please deduct whatever fees you charge and do what you feel is right. My Grandfather trusted you and called you friend and that is all the reason I need to do the same, Sir!"

<p lang="en-US">He smiled and bowed slightly." I already deducted my fees Eric and I consider it a personal pleasure to serve you. Good luck with your Union Fleet Application."

<p lang="en-US">I thanked him again and he disconnected. My Credit strip made a pinging sound and as I looked at the read out I really had no idea what a Billion Credits meant."

<p lang="en-US">I started Grandfather's recording." Hello Eric my Grandson! If you see this recording I didn't make it to see you off on your quest to become a Starship Captain. I heard it is a hard journey and be assured I will be or would be proud of you no matter if you succeed or not. I know you will try your best and no one can ask for more. I left you a little bit of money in case this career choice turns out not to be to your liking and you can try something else. I wish I could have been there for you, but I assure you I am with you in spirit. Fare well my Grandson. For the short time I was allowed to know you made me a very proud grandfather."

<p lang="en-US">I hoped no one had seen my tears I hastily wiped away.

<p lang="en-US">Holstein Planet was the closest settled system to Nilfeheim and also the seat of the sector Council. It had been settled by mostly German Immigrants from Earth at about the same time as Nilfeheim. According to the Brochure that listed trivia knowledge of all the stops along the way, it was called the Planet of Meadows and famous for its rolling hills covered with deep green grass. Grass seemed to be some sort of sea weed that grew on land. Holstein had a population of nearly one Billion and exported mainly dairy products. The cheese and milk sold on Nilfeheim came from here. Its main city Lunebeck had a Union Police Station and a Sector Court.

<p lang="en-US">We dropped out of Quasi Space a short while later and I decided to skip Holstein Planet, as a sightseeing destination and stay aboard. Lay over time was only three hours anyway. The list of tourist attractions was short and none really peaked my interest. Tour of a Dairy farm, tour of a Brewery, Hiking in the Moors and visiting genuine replicas of German Medieval Castles were on the top of that list. I had burgs at home and the rest was not what I considered interesting. Our next destination would be Twilight, a planet with a permanent night side and a permanent day side and only the strip where both sides overlapped was colonized. I activated the Privacy Bubble and set the Sleep Inducer for arrival Twilight and went to sleep.

<p lang="en-US">Twilight is a moon around the fourth planet in the Yutoo System. Twilight is tidal locked around the planet Gigaball, an enormous gas planet with nine planet sized and hundreds of smaller moons. Twilight is unique among them as it has a Nitrogen Oxygen atmosphere, acceptable to most NiOx breathers in the Union. A strip of about 60 kilometers width and 12,200 km long follows the permanent terminator line between the eternal night and perpetual daylight side. The daylight side experiences temperatures up to 250 degrees Celsius and the night side is at minus sixty degrees. A strong permanent wind circulation between the two sides has smoothed much of the rocky surface and created valleys with mile deep micro dust. Fresh and liquid water exists at the terminator and developed indigenous plant life. No mobile or fauna life forms have been discovered so far. Twilight was settled by colonists from many different regions and no particular dominant culture about 1500 years ago.

<p lang="en-US">Most cities and settlements are located on or under the Terminator strip but there is a Suns site city and a Night side city. It is noteworthy to mention that the Day Siders do not like the Night Siders and vice versa and both sides consider the Termi's as snobs and weaklings. A short but violent war had been fought about 300 years ago between the two cities inconclusive and Termi called for Union Intervention.

<p lang="en-US">Main export items are a local variety of mushrooms that grow in caves, minerals and metals. Twilight also is a Traffic Hub to the other occupied moons and planets in the system. Some of the Tourist attractions are: Dust skimming, White water boating and a large Amusement Park.

<p lang="en-US">I rubbed my eyes after the inducer woke me from a deep dreamless sleep. I had read the GalNet Entry about Twilight and again was not too interested in the local attraction, but the bus would be there for eight hours, time enough to stretch my legs and perhaps have a bite to eat.

<p lang="en-US">The space port was much bigger and busier than the one on Nilfeheim and two other space busses had arrived as well and waited for a fourth one, the reason for the eight hour layover. One of them only did the local system and I learned that all nine moons and two rock core planets in the System were colonized. The bus in the left bay to ours came from New Sweden and would leave for He Mang and the right bus came from Gallia and would leave in an hour to Nightlife. It gave me a first glimpse just how big the Union was. Many passengers and locals weren't human and I saw members of non humanoid species and could identify only a few. Four insectoid Klack loaded with shopping bags, had a lively conversation with a four meter tall Andorian and a frightening looking ten limbed Kilonian who used eight legs to walk and its first pair as arms, looked like a segmented Sausage. A Wurgus in rainbow colored neck to floor shimmering and glittering robe almost bumped into me and his head really reminded me of a freshly butchered and plugged chicken with two onions stuck to it for eyes. Mr. Flensburger our teacher told us in Xeno Class that the term Chicken head was used in many jokes but should never be said in front of a Wurgus. He mumbled an apology and rushed on. In all this there were robot vendors, message bots, info bots and security bots. Everyone seemed to be in a rush and had urgent business.

<p lang="en-US">I smiled as I saw an Arthur Swine and Dine, complete with waving pig.

<p lang="en-US">A thin looking dirty boy wearing a shoulder bag grabbed a shopping bag a woman had set down on the floor to talk to an Info Bot and he then bolted. He was stealing that ladies bag! And he ran my way, not seeing me as he glanced back. I grabbed him by the shirt. "I don't think that bag belongs to you!"

<p lang="en-US">He turned tried to worm himself out of my grip and screamed."Let me go!" Now I noticed it wasn't a boy but a girl. Her hair was cropped short and she was perhaps twelve or thirteen. Wearing a one piece coverall like smudgy gray suit,

<p lang="en-US">I twisted the collar making it tighter. "Not before you gave back what you have stolen!"

<p lang="en-US">She kicked me on my shin bone and I felt her kick even through my padded Fangsnapper leather boots. Two similar looking but much older teens both about my age and male for sure, approached us trying to blend in the crowd. "Now you are in trouble Mister, my brothers are coming and they will shank you, better let me go now!"

<p lang="en-US">"I don't think they will." They had spotted the security officer just as I had. The girl changed her tune."Please Mister, don't turn me in. I don't want to go back to Mother Moore's happy Orphanage. Please!" Tears glittered in her eyes and I said." We give the lady back her belongings and I let you go!"

<p lang="en-US">"You don't understand! If I don't bring my share I get beaten and kicked out of the nest!"

<p lang="en-US">"I tell you what. We give the lady back her stuff and I buy you dinner at Arthurs and I buy you something you can use for loot. Stealing is not the answer and unfair to that woman who paid for whatever you stole!"

<p lang="en-US">"You aren't for real! Are you?"

<p lang="en-US">"I always keep my word!"

<p lang="en-US">"Dinner and twenty Credits and you got a deal!"

<p lang="en-US">"Alright. I give you ten now, bring back the bag and I give you ten more and buy lunch."

<p lang="en-US">She nodded. "Deal!" with her free hand she fished a battered scratched looking Credit Chip form her pocket and I swiped her ten credits in the thing.

<p lang="en-US">She stared at the read out." You give me ten more?"

<p lang="en-US">"When you done your part of the deal!"

<p lang="en-US">I let her go.

<p lang="en-US">At first it seemed she was about to bolt but then she went to the lady who was still arguing with the Info Bot and had not even noticed her missing bag. The girl put it right where she took it and came back, first on distance with a distrusting expression on her dirty face. "You earned the second ten and I keep my side of the bargain."

<p lang="en-US">She approached and I swiped another ten in her strip. On the far left of my field of view I saw one of her older friends coming closer, holding his right hand under a jacket and I turned fast. He revealed knife about ten centimeters and hissed." Don't interfere with the Port Roaches! I brushed aside my mantle drew Mördaren and held the blade under his chin."Don't come to a sword fight with a knife!"

<p lang="en-US">He paled and tried to flee but a suddenly appearing Security robot grabbed him and a police man arrived moments later."Traveler did this Non citizen harm or steal from you?"

<p lang="en-US">"No but he tried to stab me."

<p lang="en-US">"I have scanned your weapon. It appears to be a simple metal sword without energy signature and is therefore permitted. You may however put it away now. Can I also scan your CIT?"

<p lang="en-US">I slid the sword back into its scabbard and let him do it. He thanked me and said."Thank you for your cooperation citizen Olafson. Have a nice stay on Twilight."

<p lang="en-US">"Do I have to do anything else?"

<p lang="en-US">"No Sir. This thief and would be stabber will see the Judge and then either Ma Moore's if he is a minor or Dust camp if he is old enough. He won't bother travelers for a while in any case."

<p lang="en-US">The cop left with the robot dragging the young man along. I didn't see the other boy or the girl. I decided to check out the shops get me some different clothing, a better PDD and maybe go outside and see how the air felt on another world and did not think much further about the incident. But the girl suddenly stepped in my way. "You still owe me a dinner!"

<p lang="en-US">"Of course, and I will keep my promise. We can go back to Arthurs or go that Pizzeria there or any other restaurant. I see there are many choices here."

<p lang="en-US">"Any restaurant?"

<p lang="en-US">"Sure."

<p lang="en-US">"We go to Chong's all you can eat then! But I must warn you it's 12 credits a nose."

<p lang="en-US">"It's okay I think I can manage it!"

<p lang="en-US">She led the way to a set of black lacquered doors with golden symbols and two ferocious looking golden animal statues sat on each side of it.

<p lang="en-US">Inside behind a counter stood a woman, her face looked very much like that of the Off world assassin I had fought in my Submarine, her hair was black though and not silver. She bowed slightly and smiled at me but glared hostile at the girl." Your kind is not welcome. You have no money and steal much food!"

<p lang="en-US">"She is with me and I pay for all the food she eats or steals."

<p lang="en-US">"This is fortunate and acceptable to me. She is now welcome!"

<p lang="en-US">The restaurant consisted of rows of tables and in the middle a long buffet with rows of tubs of steaming foods. The girl took a tablet and a plate and looked at me." You pay for the food I steal too?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes."

<p lang="en-US">She first loaded her plate with a white cereal of little steaming kernels and filled bowls with stew like meat dishes. Then she filled her bag with rolls, and chicken pieces.

<p lang="en-US">"Don't you want to wash your face and hands first? I am sure they have a wash room and maybe they could wrap the food before you put it in that bag? Remember I pay for it."

<p lang="en-US">"Can I eat first and wash later? I am really hungry!"

<p lang="en-US">"Sure, it was just a suggestion. So what's good here?"

<p lang="en-US">"Everything is good! Do you like chicken or duck, spicy or not so spicy? Get little of the rice and much of the meat. "

<p lang="en-US">I simply did what she did and went to a table.

<p lang="en-US">To my surprise she used two sticks instead of a knife or spoon. Luckily there was a spoon like contraption made of ceramics. She ate like there was no tomorrow and then pointed at my plate."Have you never eaten with chop sticks?"

<p lang="en-US">"No not really. We actually advanced to spoon and knife."

<p lang="en-US">"They have regular silverware too; you don't have to use the rice spoon."

<p lang="en-US">After she went for the third time she finally slowed down, chewing she looked at me," So what world are you from? You wear furs and leather and a sword and all that!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am from Nilfeheim. Not that far from here."

<p lang="en-US">"Never heard of Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">"And you? You are from Twilight?"

<p lang="en-US">"You are not some law man right?"

<p lang="en-US">"No I am Eric Olafson from Nilfeheim. I am a Neo Viking, the first time off planet and on my way to Arsenal."

<p lang="en-US">"Oh right I heard of the Neo Vikings. Rough barbarians from some water planet, galactic east from here, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"I think so."

<p lang="en-US">"I am Exa, don't know if I have a real last name and I think I was born on Blue Moon if my mother told me the truth, but she stowed when I was real little to here and that's how I ended up on twilight."

<p lang="en-US">"Stowed?"

<p lang="en-US">"Stowed away, hid in a freight crate, you know. That's how Gal Drifts get around. It's not easy and sometimes you get stuck on a planet for a while, the Freights are pretty tight secured these days."

<p lang="en-US">"It's not really my business and I have no idea what a Gal Drift is, but why are you stealing to get by and why are you hungry? Aren't you going to school?"

<p lang="en-US">She poked the sticks in her food and then said without looking at me."Galactic Drifters, it's a sub culture. They don't believe in CITs and think it's not right to be tagged like cows so Big Brother can keep tabs on you. They don't believe in Union laws and that includes Schools. Citizens of the Universe they call themselves and believe all war is wrong, weapons are for evil purposes only and think if the Kermac want to rule over us then let them, instead of fighting them. Gal Drifts would not accept them as authority either." She sighed." My mom got hooked on God Dust, you know Califerm. Then she got caught and shot. They shoot Califerm addicts and dealers on sight as you know."

<p lang="en-US">"So you are a Gal Drift? How about your father?"

<p lang="en-US">She pushed the plate away." I told you Mom left Blue Moon or whatever planet when I was very little. Gal Drifts don't marry or keep track of their lovers. Of course it is easier on the men they don't get pregnant. I am no Gal Drift. I am a frikkin' Below. Below everyone else, as they call the Non Citizens. Without Union school you don't become a Union Citizen and the only school I can go to as an Orphan is Mother Moore's Happy Orphanage. It's the worst place there is, it is pure hell and I ran away three times. It isn't easy to get away. They have security like a State Pen and if I am sent back I go to the Inside on Slammer Moon. No chance of escape there."

<p lang="en-US">"Seems you caught the short end of the stick here. If you want you could go to Nilfeheim at our place and go to school there. It's not a very sophisticated planet but it is quiet and boring for the most time."

<p lang="en-US">"I can't simply travel, Mister even if I wanted to. Mother Moore is my legal guardian and one of them needs to sign my travel permission and release forms and all that."

<p lang="en-US">"Is there more than one mother?"

<p lang="en-US">"It is a Company they operate these orphanages on many planets and locations in the Union, and they get paid per Orphan they house, school and educate. The more complicated a kid is the more money they get. Therefore every second child is complicated! The real bad cases are sent to a moon not far from here called the Slammer. No escape possible and the kids only leave when they are legal adults and after extensive Psycho Surgery. After that they never complain,or tell about the real conditions and they praise Mother Moore's as the next best thing to paradise. There are no controls, no authorities checking on it unless someone complains. Who complains for an Orphan? We are by definition alone!"

<p lang="en-US">The more she told about this unfair situation the more I felt angry and while a voice in me warned me to let it go and make my way to Arsenal as planned. I leaned forward and said to her." You are not alone no more! Let us find a way to get the Authorities involved. This is the Union and you have rights!"