Journey.odt 2



Chapter 4: Exa

Chapter 4 – Exa

She finally gave up and pushed the plate away." That feels so good, to be full and all. I even got enough food in the bag so they will be nice to me at the nest, even though Benjamin has been arrested and most likely sent to Dust Camp."

"What is the nest?"

She looked around as to make sure no one listened in. "No outsider is allowed to know where it is and the roaches kill anyone who does."

"I didn't ask where it is but what it is."

"It's our hideout, us the Port Roaches that is. They found a neat spot sublevel nine, behind the Space ports Enviro tanks the Tunneling robots digging the tunnel for the water and supply pipes brushed a natural cave. It's not big but it is all ours. Much better place than the Short Rats or the Filth Flies have. It is dry and warm. Outside nothing is ever dry!"

I didn't tell her that she told me where her hideout was after all and said. "It rains a lot?"

"It hasn't stopped raining in this area for the last 100,000 years or more. This space port is located on the East wall of the Twilight river Canyon. The river is about 3000 meters below us. The Town Dusk is on the West wall, connected via the famous vertigo transparent bottom bridge. I can show you if you like I know my way around."

"Alright, I think I stay a day or two on Twilight and take a different bus. I want to see if we can't do something about your situation!"

Her suspicious facial expression came back. "Not that there is anything you can do, I am a Bottom no one wants to deal with us, but I sure like to know why you would want to get involved?"

I shrugged. "There is always something you can do and I simply can't help myself not getting involved when I notice something unfair and your situation is so far the most unfair I ever heard off."

"You said that about the ladies bag too, the unfair thing!"

"It's one of my two big problems that keep getting me in trouble." I got up, "Let's pay the Inn keeper and then I need to get me a hotel or something and buy me some other clothing. I also want to find a Union Post office. I think I am sending Mördaren home and get me something else. I would never forgive myself if I lost it."

"Mördaren?"

<p lang="en-US">"My sword's name."

<p lang="en-US">"You are weirder than I thought! I did hear of pets but naming a sword?"

<p lang="en-US">"It's a Nilfeheim thing!"

<p lang="en-US">I paid the bill and the lady said to the girl. "You can come back now and will be always welcome!" On our way out I said." You won't be welcome if she notices her golden cat thing missing you stole from the counter. I buy you one if you want one."

<p lang="en-US">He eyes darkened. "I don't want one but it might bring a few credits on Xchange net."

<p lang="en-US">I went back in and paid the lady for the missing statue, and when I left I didn't see the girl. Maybe it was better that way. I should not get involved anyway and who knows what the entire story was, maybe she was a hardened criminal. She sure was stealing everything in sight.

<p lang="en-US">In a clothing store I looked over the offerings and found the male section measly and drab compared to the two floors dedicated to female clothing. I resisted the urge, purchased a pair what the sales man said was a 3000 years classic, blue pants he called jeans and a few shirts, a leather jacket. I did like the Terran All terrain boots with tough soles that would adjust automatically to the terrain I walked over. Then I went and put my old clothing and the sword in a big box and paid the Union Postal service to deliver it to my sister for safe keeping. I felt already very different without fur coat vest or tight leather trousers and I decided I liked leather better than jeans. Everything I wore now felt lighter, much lighter and I wasn't sure I would keep dressing like this and if I did the right thing sending my stuff back.

<p lang="en-US">I also purchased a more advanced PDD with GalNet connection and it was over 8000 credits, the most expensive item I had ever purchased and yet it did not really change the readout of my credit strip. As I left the girl stood outside, her bag looked empty and she said." I just went and shared the food with the others in the nest. They could not believe what I told them. So here I am. Your Twilight tour guide. If I charge you 20 Credits for this service would you say no?"

<p lang="en-US">"Why don't we make another deal? We get you cleaned up and I get you some decent clothing and when you are all clean I give you twenty credits and a tip."

<p lang="en-US">"You pay me for that?"

<p lang="en-US">"Sure will!" I took the PDD and said. "Greylines Passenger Relations of coach 554 on Twilight. I like to make changes to my travel arrangements."

<p lang="en-US">"One moment please, connecting."

<p lang="en-US">"Greylines Passenger Relations. Please transmit your ID blip."

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

<p lang="en-US">"Olafson, Eric. Boarded on Nilfeheim with final destination Arsenal Gate?" "Correct"

<p lang="en-US">"What can I do for you?"

<p lang="en-US">"I like to stay a little on Twilight and take a later bus"

<p lang="en-US">"No problem. Your ticket is good for one year and on all connections to Arsenal Gate, regardless the route you take. Do you have luggage aboard?"

<p lang="en-US">"No."

<p lang="en-US">"Then all is set you may take any later or different bus at any time you choose. Thank you for choosing Greylines and have a nice day."

<p lang="en-US">"That's a SII – Prodat 9 is it not?"

<p lang="en-US">"I think so, I just bought it. My old one was not GalNet enabled. Don't steal it! It was quite expensive!"

<p lang="en-US">"I know I could get 100 Credits for it from the Roach King!"

<p lang="en-US">"I think your roach king keeps a hefty profit for himself then. This just cost me 8000 and its brand new. Even if he gets half for it, you should get more than 100 credits for it."

<p lang="en-US">She blinked." You just spend 8000 credits, just like that?"

<p lang="en-US">"More or less. So are we still on or keep standing around?"

<p lang="en-US">"There is a scrub and soak on Level 9 for Dust Miners. I could shower there." Her face did not look happy as she said it.

<p lang="en-US">"You don't want to get clean?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I don't mind being clean, water isn't free up here and it's a long way to the river. There are only Dust Miners and rough men at the Scrub and soak…"

<p lang="en-US">"It was your suggestion. I was thinking about a Hotel room with a private bath!"

<p lang="en-US">Her face lit up." A real Hotel with one bed per room?"

<p lang="en-US">"Do they have unreal hotels too?"

<p lang="en-US">"There are Bunk Houses, Hostels, Sleep halls, Hour Hotels, Portels, Bed and Breakfasts, one, two, three, four and five star Hotels and there is even one Ultra Lux in the City.

<p lang="en-US">I sighed lead the way and pick one. "We have two hotels on Nilfeheim and that is it and I never been in one."

<p lang="en-US">"How much do you want to spend?"

<p lang="en-US">I shrugged." Is there one with a nice view perhaps of the outside or something?"

<p lang="en-US">Exa's eyes sparkled." Well there is no better view than from the Bridge Hotel."

<p lang="en-US">"That's the one Girl. Lead the way!"

<p lang="en-US">She led me to a bank of Inter Port Transports and we entered the transport bullet, she keyed in a destination and the bullet shot down. The transparent tube we traveled in left the bottom of the space port and I now saw the entire port was build hanging two thirds of a mind blowing canyon. On the other side was a City with sky scrapers built the same way hanging over the cliff the two were connected via fragile looking bridge. But taking the size of the city and the space port complex into account the bridge must have been gigantic." I said to her."Say didn't you want to stay somewhere on that bridge or is there another bridge hotel or something?"

<p lang="en-US">She said." I am sorry Eric, but the others said I must do that or they kill me.!" She touched my hand with something and I felt my legs give away and slide along the wall to the floor. She looked sad." Sorry Eric! I had no choice! You would be gone tomorrow and I am still with the Port Roaches!"

<p lang="en-US">I passed out. My last coherent thought was how stupid I had been once again!

GalNet Entry

After the last great war between the Big Four ( Union, Shiss, Nul and the Galactic Council lead by the Kermac) and during the armistice conference it was decided that all space not Territory of either of these species was declared Unrestricted Space, and buffer zones between these galactic super powers, it was called Free Space. Several space faring civilizations such as the Kartanian, the Velox, the Armosia and the elusive Togar declared their space Free Space during the same Armistice conference. The main article of that contract prohibits any of the Big Four to operate fleets, armed ships or trespass into free space. (Private ships and civilians are not included in this contract) Each of the Big four and the so called Neutrals watching very closely that the others do not violate Free space. Free Space is now a heaven for pirates, the lawless element of all Civilizations and the most famous of all the lawless places is Sin 4.

For almost 500 years since the end of the last war by armistice, the 4th planet of the Sin system is synonymous with crime of every possible shade and flavor and every vice, every drug and everything illegal anywhere else can be found here. Crime Syndicates operate openly with offices. Sin 4 is relative close to Nul, Union and Kermac space as well as within reach of Kartanian and Togar and also a Trade hub for the little trade that is going on between those sides.

Sin 4 is the only Non-Union planet connected to GalNet. (SII operates a Call Center and a Bank on Sin 4). Anything can be purchased or sold on Sin 4. Including sentient beings, generally known as Slaves.

Sin 4 has two continents and 14 major islands. The entire northern Continent is one big city. Build without any regulations. All 14 islands are occupied. Twelve belong to the twelve major crime syndicate families running the planet. Number Thirteen is known as Trash Island and the fourteenth island features one of the main temples of the Sojonit Sect.

Union Travelers are urged to avoid Frees space and Sin 4 as the space is Pirate infested and there is a good chance one does not leave Sin 4.

There are four levels of Society known to exist on Sin 4. The Echelon or the top level consists of the Crime Lords, their Sub bosses and Lieutenants. The Beston are the rich who pay horrendous sums for their safety and operate the high end businesses on Sin 4 that are not directly owned by the Syndicates. The Averas are the workers, employees, enforcers and all those who hold a job either with Beston Companies or with the Crime Syndicate. The Lows are the unskilled laborers, the little street vendors and the street gangs. Finally there are the Skath, the lowest day laborers, old whores, escaped slaves, the homeless and the sick.

<p lang="en-US">Interlude: Sin 4

<p lang="en-US">Faria sat in one of the frilly white gazebos that dotted the beautiful landscaped park like garden that surrounded the Sojonit Temple on Sojonit Island. It was a beautiful sunny day. On her lap the Book of Sojo, in it the secret history and many but not all secrets of her order. She was dressed like all Sojonit Sisters that ventured outside the Inner temple. A pink bra and over it a sheer bolero style jacket with long fluttering sleeves. She had opted for the pink mini skirt and the thigh high pink heeled boots. She also could have worn the Bikini bottom with the harem style veil pants over it. Her face was hidden behind a flesh colored face semi rigid mask that resembled a beautiful woman's face with an open mouth, and her real hair underneath a shoulder long wig in page cut also in pink. The Sojonites were considered the most expensive whores in the Galaxy. They worshipped Sojo the Goddess spirit of universal Love and sexual pleasures. The Order of the Sojonit so legend had it, already existed when the Celtest ruled the Galaxy over a Million years ago and the truth was not so far off. As the Sojonit Order was founded by a group of Celtest and Saresii women, during the height of the Celtest war against the Dark Ones.

<p lang="en-US">The Celtest a highly advanced civilization once ruled over much of the galaxy and it was a glorious time of peace, cultural and technological advances. Then the mysterious Dark Ones arrived and waged war against the Celtest. No weapon, none of their Psionic powers, not even the elusive Narth were able to stop the Dark Ones in their relentless pursuit of death and destruction. The Narth retreated and their entire Star System simply vanished. The Saresii back then a young and warrior like species with vast Psionic abilities, allies of the Celtest paid a horrible price and all of their over 10,000 colonies were utterly destroyed leaving only Sares Prime untouched by war. The Saresii blamed male aggressiveness for this catastrophe, prohibited any space exploration, destroyed all their remaining space ships and isolated themselves on their planet for 500,000 years and banned anything male from their world.

<p lang="en-US">The Celtest were losing, but one group of Celtest and Saresii women believed that perhaps love and the art of sexual pleasures would be an alternate weapon to conquer the evil of the Dark Ones and retreated to a secret world known only to the High Sisters and began to collect and research anything and everything related to sex, mating rituals and love making from every culture and species they could find and out of this developed a secret knowledge. It was said that a fully trained Sojonit Sister could bring any known sentient life form to the utmost height of sexual pleasures, and easily kill any being that way too, regardless if that being was humanoid non human, male or female.

<p lang="en-US">The History of the Sojonit changed over the millennia and they began to believe in a universal spirit of love and ecstasy called the Sojo and to worship Sojo treasures had to be collected in her name and so it came that the Sojonit travel the Galaxy offering their skills to the richest customers who gladly pay the high sums that were charged for a night with a Sojonit.

<p lang="en-US">The Sojonit all dressed and looked thanks to their masks alike so no one would fall in love with a particular one.

<p lang="en-US">Faria looked up and remembered how she came to this island. Back then she was seven or maybe eight years old, her mother a Skath, living in a trash bag plastic tent in the Slums around the city of Sin 4. She remembered her mother to be almost as thin as a Stick, the true natives of this world. Faria did not know how her mother ended up in the slums or if she herself was the daughter of a Skath. Skath had no rights, no future and struggled daily to stay alive, by begging, stealing, scavenging and competing against the rats and all the other filth that has been brought to this planet from all across the Galaxy, for morsels of anything consumable. Skath had no quarrels eating each other if they had a chance and too many beings humans and other sentient races were just another source of meat in the first place. One night her mother said she would not survive another day and told her daughter to take the little row boat she had stolen and head to the Sojonit Island. She told her if she would make it she would become a well cared for, well feed whore, what better life could there be?

<p lang="en-US">Faria saw her mother collapse on the shore and wanted to return but could not as Heghoor Scavengers fell over her mother's body. She rowed the thirty eight kilometers in tears, weak of hunger and thirst but almost made it, when a Skimmer most likely just for fun and target practice opened fire on her boat that was nothing more than a plastic covered cardboard box and shot her through the leg as she jumped in the water. She did not remember how she made it but they told her she was found the next day on the steps of the Sojonit Temple. Mother Superior allowed her to be taken inside and she had been here ever since. Mother Superior was very kind to her and she was taught much of the techniques and the secret knowledge, but even Faria did not know how the Human looking Sojonit Sisters could for example service a 4 meter Petharian or an Ult or any of the Non humanoids. This knowledge was reserved for the Higher Order.

<p lang="en-US">She noticed someone coming and turned to look and it was the Mother Superior herself. She was the only one who did not wear pink but a deep red, her clothing was not as transparent as the others and the mouth of her mask was closed.

<p lang="en-US">Faria got up from the bench and immediately knelt down as it was proper. Faria when she wore the mask also lost her name and received a new one, the one associated with her mask. When she wore the face cover she was only known as Wetmouth. When she looked up inside the eye slits of her mask she could, by looking at eye switches activate several technical and very advanced features of her mask. One would send Computronic data directly before her retina. Her mask would instantly recognize another mask and tell her the Sister name of the person she looked at. She could activate a force field; fill her mask lips with poison for a last and final kiss. Or fire the tiny but quite powerful Forced Energy Needler hidden in the masks nose, good for two or three silent energy pulses. The readout placed on her retina told her immediately that this was the genuine Mother Superior.

<p lang="en-US">Mother superior motioned to her." Stay seated, child. I have to talk to you and I think this is a good place to do that!"

<p lang="en-US">The red dressed woman sat down while Wetmouth returned to her seat waiting what this was all about. Mother superior began." Wetmouth you have been gifted with a very bright mind. While we lack the proper measuring and testing tools I am sure your IQ exceeds that of 99 percent of the galaxies sentient population."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth said." I am humbled by your assessment Mother Superior, but if my self analysis is correct I do not exceed an IQ of 400."

<p lang="en-US">"Child!" the woman laughed behind her mask," A person over 180 is considered a genius. You have ability to independently arrive at and understand concepts that would normally have to be taught by another person. That is the very definition of being a genius, girl!"

<p lang="en-US">The woman padded Wetmouth's knee. "You are not destined to be a working Sojonit. You must explore and use your real gift. I will therefore grant you the right to wear the Veil of abstinence and I will send you away. I want you to reach Union Space and apply for Union Citizenship at the first planet you reach. Only there can you fully develop your gift. They will recognize you very fast for what you are and they have the most wonderful Universities, the Corps of Scientists and schools with access to libraries and knowledge."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth knew about the Veil of Abstinence it was very rarely given to Sisters who received special tasks where the Love making would interfere. Her Intellect understood very well the opportunity and the reasons why the Mother Superior said all this, but on an emotional level she was afraid to leave. This was the only home she ever knew. She said. "I will obey your command and ruling!"

<p lang="en-US">The woman left her hand on her knee." Wetmouth it will be a hard way, but this world can offer you no future and it would be a sin against nature and the Spirit of the goddess to waste such incredible intellect."

<p lang="en-US">It had been a long journey and Wetmouth was at the end of her resources and felt utterly alone. She had reached the Space port of Checkpoint 96; she had arrived on an old Leyland space bus from Netlor twelve days ago. Her journey was everything but easy. Men chased her, wanted her because she was a Sojonit. To them the veil of abstinence meant nothing and she had been raped brutally on Alvor's Cove, fled stowed away on a water freighter. Now she had no credits left. There was no Sojo temple on Checkpoint 96. Her luggage had been stolen and she was dirty, hungry and alone. The Union Guard had scanned her and told her she was a year to young to apply for citizen ship and she would need a sponsor anyway. She lied to them and told them she was visiting an aunt. But she found out that even if she had money she could not purchase a Space bus ticket without a CIT. Mother superior was right, the Union was a shiny world but it was full of regulations and cold. She sat down, on a bench and despite her intellect she felt lost and she did not have enough data or knowledge to analyze the situation.

<p lang="en-US">She didn't realize it at first but she cried behind her mask. A very tall black dressed man wearing some black things before his eyes, stopped and sat next to her, his voice was rich and deep and he said. "I could not help but notice you. Is everything alright?"

<p lang="en-US">"Please Mister. I am wearing the Veil of Abstinence, I cannot service you!"

<p lang="en-US">"Sorry to have you disturbed then. I was not looking for service by the way, I am happily married and do not need such services anyway. I just heard your sob and wondered if I could perhaps help."

<p lang="en-US">She looked up." It would be highly logical to accept help in the situation I am in but experience of the behavior of men and their reaction towards a Sojonit conflicts with this initial logical assessment."

<p lang="en-US">He chuckled. "Young lady you are not talking like I would have a Sojonit expected to talk, but I understood what you said nevertheless and I can add some input to your situation analysis. I promise I will not hurt you. I promise I will not touch you in any way. Furthermore since your initial statement suggested that you do need help and I might be able to offer such, you might consider telling me the reason for your initial logical assessment."

<p lang="en-US">She raised an eyebrow behind her mask. The stranger was quite able to express himself and she said. "I am lost and stranded and do not know how to achieve my goal of becoming a Union Citizen."

<p lang="en-US">Now she noticed two men and a very professional looking woman, all trying to look inconspicuous, but their focus was clearly the tall stranger. The men looked perfectly civilian but still something was odd and dangerous about them. "Sir, I might not be the only one with problems here. There are three individuals approximately seven meters from here and their behavior pattern suggests they are focused on you and I believe with a reasonable high probability that they are armed."

<p lang="en-US">"Very impressive young lady, the two gentlemen are associates of mine and the woman is my executive assistant Yvonne. My name is Rex by the way. Would it be acceptable if I invite you to a cup of coffee or something and you tell me more about your troubles? I believe with a reasonable high probability that I can help you and I want to assure you I will not ask for anything in return, neither any service nor any information you are not willing to give."

<p lang="en-US">"I have little options left and a hot beverage would be most welcome. I am Wetmouth."

<p lang="en-US">"Do you trust me enough to walk over with me to that Coffee shop or I can have the coffee brought here."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth relaxed a little. The man seemed no threat and was very friendly. His voice had a deep very reassuring and self assure quality and she believed him." I do not think they deliver coffee over here, Sir. I think we need to go over there."

<p lang="en-US">"I am sure they make an exception for me." He smiled at her and waved his hand and the woman Yvonne managed to walk with grace, fast and silent on high heeled pumps. A feat of perfect body control, Wetmouth was impressed.

<p lang="en-US">"Yvonne I would like to get some coffee for me and my bench sharing associate and a menu from that coffee shop over there.

<p lang="en-US">"Right away, Rex!"

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth was quite stunned when two waiters came running a few moments later carrying one of the Coffee houses tables, a third carried coffee cups and menus. They placed the coffee table right in front of them and the third waiter behaved like the owner of the place and his facial expression reflected, pride and a little fear. Wetmouth analyzed the behavior, the body guards and came to the conclusion Rex was a Crime lord or something similar. Only they commanded such obedience. The waiter bowed placed the coffee cups and said." Mr. Schwartz I cannot begin to express my pride and thanks you have chosen my coffee shop, everything you want Sir you name it and I get it."

<p lang="en-US">"Good to know. I would like to have a private conversation right now with this lady."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir!"

<p lang="en-US">"Are you a crime syndicate Lord?" Wetmouth asked.

<p lang="en-US">Yvonne who stood nearby sucked in air audibly but Rex smiled. "No young lady, this is Union space, not Sin 4. While I am sure we have a few of those here too, they usually don't like to draw much attention to themselves. Frankly I don't like that either but we have this part of the lobby for ourselves at the moment."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth only now noticed that he was correct, this part of the elevated balcony above the main concourse was void of other beings.

<p lang="en-US">The woman Yvonne said." The Battle ship with your Son in law has arrived Sir. They should be debarking within the hour."

<p lang="en-US">"Thank you Yvonne. Is my daughter informed?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir, she is the first in line at the gate. We will give Roy time to say hello to his girl and tell them where I am"

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth sipped the coffee and only now realized how hungry and thirsty she had been her hands were shaking.

<p lang="en-US">Rex said to her." No I am a business man and much of my business is quite legal."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth nodded." Ah the Union uses a legal system of laws and rules that determine what activity is legal and what is not. The activities not legal are considered to be criminal, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes young lady but I know Sin 4 and realize what this culture is what you use as base line. Don't get upset but despite your mask I am seeing you are quite upset and hungry. Your outfit is not as immaculate as it usually is with Sojonit Sisters. So why don't you tell me your troubles?"

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth ignored her caution and simply told the man everything and he listened without interrupting her. She was crying again as she ended and cursed her mask, she could not dry her tears.

<p lang="en-US">He leaned forward." Please don't be afraid no more. If you let me help you, I help you become a legal citizen and I take care of your education as well."

<p lang="en-US">A man in military uniform accompanied by an incredibly beautiful blonde girl and a huge black animal approached the table. Rex got up and said. "Wetmouth this is my daughter Monique Masters and that Union Special forces Marine is Roy Masters my Son in law. Oh and that big black thing that's Partner his Fury Hound."

<p lang="en-US">They greeted her friendly and either didn't know what a Sojonit was or did not care and seemed to completely overlook the fact. His daughter hugged and kissed him and then he hugged the muscular man, who was not as tall as Rex, but Wetmouth somehow felt this man was very dangerous and not only because he was a member of the even on Sin 4 famous and feared Union marines. The big animal simply flopped down right next to her and without really thinking she touched it and felt its soft fur and began to pet it.

<p lang="en-US">Rex said."Are you done now with the Marines?"

<p lang="en-US">"Never Dad, once a marine always a marine but I will be discharged officially in a few days. Well I promised my Angel to go shopping with her. Partner likes your new friend so I leave him here if that's okay Dad."

<p lang="en-US">"Sure is, have fun you two."

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth felt jealous of the two. They had everything and a loving father!

<p lang="en-US">Rex sat back down." I am sorry I had to interrupt but I had not seen either of them in a year. That is the reason I came to this place in the first place."

<p lang="en-US">She said." I am just a stranger they are family. I understand!"

<p lang="en-US">The woman Yvonne stepped closer and Wetmouth realized she was there the whole time, and she looked at a PDD. "I just checked with legal, Sir. It isn't as easy to make the young lady a citizen. According to her visa she is a minor and needs a legal guardian. Technically she is an orphan of non Union origin and would need to report to Social. "

<p lang="en-US">He said." I don't care if it is easy or difficult I want it done!"

<p lang="en-US">"There is this alternative…" She held the PDD before his eyes.

<p lang="en-US">Rex glanced at it and then said." Wetmouth, I am Rex Schwartz. I don't know if you have heard of me on Sin 4 but I am considered the richest man in the Galaxy and while I must abide by the law like everyone else I usually get things done. I am an Immortal and older than a little over 3000 years old, I am happily married for almost as long and I assure you I could hire every Sojonit there is for a decade and would not have to cut down on sugar for my coffee. I am telling you all this to assure you I am no threat. I won't harm you but even if the press says otherwise. I got a heart and I am a man, I can't help it but I am touched by a girl crying and your life story has touched me deeply! So let me help you but I can do so only if you trust me!"

<p lang="en-US">He paused to let it sink in.

<p lang="en-US">Wetmouth of course had heard of Schwartz Industries as they maintained a Call Center and a bank on Sin 4. Not even the Syndicates dared to mess with them. Her analytical mind realized how incredibly powerful that man was and she believed every word he had said. She shivered involuntarily and then said with a weak voice." Yes I trust you."

<p lang="en-US">He smiled. "Splendid, we will call your mother superior and make sure she is okay with that and then I will adopt you, if that is okay with you. As my daughter you can become a citizen in no time and then we find you the finest tutors and your University of choice."

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 5: Crystal Suite

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 5 – Crystal Suite

<p lang="en-US">I came to my senses and realized even before I opened my eyes I was naked and my hands were tied to my back. I opened my eyes and looked into the face of a blue skinned Thauran teen with coppery metallic hair. "Hey Exa, your rich benefactor is awake." Then he turned back to me." Now listen carefully, Rich Citizen Kid. We are the Port Roaches, the most bad ass gang on all of Twilight and I am the Roach King. You caused one of my roaches to be arrested. I don't like that. You interfere with my business and I don't like that either. But little useless Exa here, tells me you like little girls and pay for food and you got money. You can improve your situation by letting me see how much money you got on your credit chip and then I want you to transfer every micro cent into my credit strip and I let you live, release you, naked but alive up in the port and you can go back to whatever dirt ball you came from, poorer but alive!"

<p lang="en-US">"I don't believe you. You can't let me go after I handed you my money. Union Police would tear this planet apart if they hear of a kidnapping, I am sure you know what the penalty for everyone involved is."

<p lang="en-US">There were twelve others similar dressed and dirty as the Roach king and Exa who was the smallest and most fragile looking of them all. One of them said." He is right King! This ain't stealing anymore! We're in deep trouble; they will hang us for this."

<p lang="en-US">Another squeaked." I seen a public hanging and I sure do not want to go like that! It was horrible, the guy was charged with murder and he kicked his feet for almost five minutes before he died. Roach king let's cut our losses and let the guy go!"

<p lang="en-US">"You all shut up! I am in charge here! This guy is rich! That is our ticket out of here! We all will have money and eat and sleep in real beds!"

<p lang="en-US">"You are elected by us to be our leader!" The other yelled." We have a right to vote on that!"

<p lang="en-US">I added to stoke the fire." You can't leave this planet without CIT's and no money will buy you those. Where do you want to go? I sent a distress call with my PDD just before that lying brat send me dreaming. I am sure if Port security can't find me they call in Union Police. To kidnap a Union Fleet member is real bad."

<p lang="en-US">Exa almost cried as she said." He did tell me he was on his way to Arsenal. That's Fleet HQ!"

<p lang="en-US">Another boy said." Union Fleet, King are you crazy? I am out of here! They bring in the PSI Corps to find him or anyone responsible for his death! There is no place we can hide from them!"

<p lang="en-US">"I quit! I go to the Filth Flies. They may not have a nice cave as we do but they stick with stealing!"

<p lang="en-US">The Roach King screamed in a fit! "Alright let us discuss this but not before that rich boy! I kill him myself so no one is going to be hanged other than me if it ever comes to that!" He herded them out and closed the rusty door.

<p lang="en-US">Now I had time to check my surroundings. I was in a small utility room. There were big pipes and hand wheels on one side. The walls were made out of natural rock and I assumed this was some sort of maintenance chamber along the pipes, Exa had talked about. Across the other side was a railing about hip high and a sign read Fresh water holding tank 12. Pre-treatment holding. I could see the water reflecting of the rock ceiling beyond. The door busted open again and the Rat king came back." You will tell me the access code to your PDD and transfer the money!"

<p lang="en-US">"No!"

<p lang="en-US">"You still think you have a choice, rich kid!"

<p lang="en-US">Two of his friends came in." What we are going to do?"

<p lang="en-US">"We toss that piece of shit in the water like we did with Serg and make him talk or he drowns! They all talk after that!"

<p lang="en-US">They dragged me to my feet, and over to the railing, now I could see a big and very deep water tank fed by a pipe on one end and some sort of grading at least ten meters below the surface.

<p lang="en-US">The Rat king came close to my ear." You see that Rich boy? That is real cold river water and it is deep."

<p lang="en-US">I had to bite my lips to make me sound terrified." I can't swim!"

<p lang="en-US">"Swimming isn't going to be your problem, shit! Getting air to breath however is!"

<p lang="en-US">Someone kicked me in the knee pits and I dropped rather painful with my naked knees on the steel grading and two of them pushed me head first into the water, holding my legs. After only one minute or so they pulled me back up! "The PDD code, now!"

<p lang="en-US">I knew I was acting real badly and as if I was out of breath and terrified." No!"

<p lang="en-US">They dunked me again and not much longer then the first time.

<p lang="en-US">One of them whispered." We are not really going to kill him are we?"

<p lang="en-US">"Shut up you pansy!"

<p lang="en-US">Then he leaned forward." The next time I dunk you it be two minutes. That's twice as long as before! The Access code now!"

<p lang="en-US">I shook my head." No if I do you kill me!"

<p lang="en-US">"I do if you don't!"

<p lang="en-US">He dunked me again. I kicked them harder this time and I slipped out of their grip. I expelled all the air form the lungs kicked little for show and then let myself float. I could not help but grin to myself but my own stupidity brought me into this situation in the first place and that was no reason to smile.

<p lang="en-US">After about ten or fifteen minutes, they used a pole to get me and then fished me out. I kept playing dead. I heard them say." If his body clogs the intake the engineers come down and find him they going to investigate! We got to throw him in the river. Now get his clothing and the PDD so if did make that call they think he fell in the water or something and hopefully the river will drag him halfway around the planet before that."

<p lang="en-US">"Now everyone knows I am not afraid of killing!" At least something good came out of it." Don't forget to cut his ties. If they suspect a murder the investigate even harder."

<p lang="en-US">I risked a peek and the king came back with my things and the PPD and the other cut my bonds. The King said." Go dress him!"

<p lang="en-US">"I'm not touching a dead naked body eeew!"

<p lang="en-US">"You do or you going to be the next naked dead body!"

<p lang="en-US">The Rat king laughed and went out the door. The one left behind cursed and turned me on his back. I kicked him as hard as I could directly under the chin, his head flung back and he actually lifted off the ground smashed backwards into the metal armatures behind him and slipped to the floor leaving a bloody smear on the pipes, he did not move. I dressed as fast as I could, took his knife and wanted to activate my PDD but someone had pried of the energy pack, probably to sell the pack as a part. I opened the steel door a crack and peaked through. There was a dimly lit corridor with two big pipes running along in the middle. I could see the feet of someone behind the two pipes and risked opening the door a little wider. The corridor carved into natural rock, ran seemingly endless into one direction, but ended at an elevator door in the other direction, only about fifty meters from where I was.

<p lang="en-US">Now all I had to do was sneak up to that Elevator door and disapear and take the next possible space bus, but somehow I could not let this attempted murder on me go unpunished. I wanted to explain to that Roach King that I did not enjoy his kind of hospitality and had the strong urge to repay him with a typical Nilfeheim answer to such things. This overwhelmed my better judgment and I hoped my aunt Freydis was right and following the heart was sometimes better than following the mind. Of course it was a pile of Nubhir poop, following my instincts rather than what was the sensible thing to do was the reason I was down here in the first place." I wondered how many million passengers passed through Twilight and the worst thing ever happening to them was perhaps an overpriced meal or a stolen shopping bag, but I had to slide headlong into trouble on the very first stop on my journey. I wondered what would have happened if I had stopped at Holstein?

<p lang="en-US">I sneaked out, the soles of the all terrains adjusted from metal floor to rock floor and I was able to walk silently. I climbed a short ladder and laid myself flat on the incredibly dusty and dirty top of the metal pipeline. I could smell the metal paint in my nose as I inched myself forward. There on the other side of this corridor dividing pipeline was a crack in the tunnel wall about forty centimeters wide and I guessed perhaps 100 centimeters likley the entrance to the Nest of the Roaches Exa had described to me. Not the rat king but one of the older boys stood right next to it. I recognized him being the other guy form the pair of Roaches I had first seen up in the space port lobby after I had grabbed Exa. Some sort of homemade looking gun leaned next to him against the wall. I figured he was supposed to be a guard or look out, but he was a very bad one. He played with some sort of hand held game that made cartoonish noises. A good guard would be right here on top of the pipes able to see in both directions on both sides of the pipes. Obviously neither strategy nor tactical planning went into choosing guard or guard position. I got into a crouching position and jumped pushing the guy hard to the ground, my knee pushing deep into his stomach as he hit back first to the floor and me on top. He gargled and went limb, I looked left and right dragged him under the pipe and then checked his weapon. It was some sort of pressure cylinder that released pressured air or some other gas, driving a piston and it in turn would expell a ten centimeter long round steel spike out of a long barrel. It was a one shot deal and I had no idea how accurate or how strong it would be. Peaking inside the crack I saw a natural cave of about twenty meters circumference. I could see three rats and the King. He was sitting on an elevated office swivel chair. The cave was lid by two light elements very rudimentary wired into the lights of the corridor outside. What I saw next disgusted me so much I was about to throw up. One of the rat boys shoved Exa towards the King and I heard him say." It was all your fault the things went bad.

<p lang="en-US">It was you that could not run fast enough and you got caught. And thanks to that drowned friend of yours, my best man Benjamin got sent to the Dust Mines. I got five of the Roaches, others left to go to the Flies and all because you could not do even do a little thing right and use the Lights Out-stinger before he had a chance to use his PDD."

<p lang="en-US">She cried." He didn't use his PDD. Please don't make me do it again!"

<p lang="en-US">"Oh but you will. My blue pecker needs cleaning! it will teach you a valuable lesson to obey and do what I tell you to do!"

<p lang="en-US">She cried knelt before him and he opened his pants…

<p lang="en-US">I fired the crude weapon and the bolt nailed him through the left shoulder into the back rest of his chair. I squeezed myself inside the crack rushed up and used the empty weapon like a club, hammered it over the head of the tallest and buried its dull end with force into the stomach pit of the other. I managed to hit each of them three or four times with the long metal thing, until both were on the floor. I looked around but did not see any other and then jumped up readied for a swing and said. "Your reign ends today Roach king! I take your filthy head of!"

<p lang="en-US">"Stop it right there Citizen!" Bright light filled the cave and the edges of the crack in the wall began to glow white hot and a heart beat later four armored Police men with blasters stomped in the room." Citizen drop that Air rifle and let me scan your CIT!"

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

<p lang="en-US">One of the Roaches I had seen when I first regained conciousness, it was the one who challenged the Roach King for a vote, appeared behind the cops." I told you they abducted a Citizen. Do I get my reward now?"

<p lang="en-US">"Wait outside Non –Cit and we will deal with that later."

<p lang="en-US">The policeman in front of me wore a bulky looking Ultronit segmented armor with Police stenciled across his chest. Two bright lights mounted to each side of his helmet made my eyes water and I could barely see a thing." You are Eric Olafson, legal Citizen of Nilfeheim?"

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

<p lang="en-US">"Please tell us exactly what happened. Be as detail specific as possible."

<p lang="en-US">So I told him pretty much everything that happened since I landed.

<p lang="en-US">One of his colleagues looked at a hand held device." The Poly Analyzer gives his story a 99. 21 percent truth level. Cyber Legal shows all green. Citizen has acted in clear self defense and self preservation. No laws have been violated by Citizen."

<p lang="en-US">I said angrily." What I said was all true not just 99 percent!"

<p lang="en-US">He turned off the glaring lights and said." Citizen, we would accept 75 percent. The machine can never give 100 percent out of sampling errors, adjustments and calibration errors. I never have seen anything close to that. So I assure you we do not question one word you said."

<p lang="en-US">His closest partner scratched his chin." You sure cleaned house down here. Three dead, two wounded and that after being almost drowned to death!"

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

<p lang="en-US">"The guy in Fresh Water Tank access room 5, basilar skull fracture. The one you stuffed under the fresh water pipeline crushed rib cage, and this guy right here blunt trauma to the temple, that cut his lights for good."

<p lang="en-US">I wasn't very proud of my sad record."What do I have to next?"

<p lang="en-US">"Whatever you like you are free to go. "

<p lang="en-US">"What will happen with them?"

<p lang="en-US">"The two guys are old enough and will be charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. I doubt the judge and the Jury will take long to come to a verdict. We got 3 witness accounts, Poly Verified and physical evidence. I figure they will be hanged in a week or so. The girl, well she is according to my Bio scanner 12 years old and a minor, but there is no family or verifiable place of origin. No worries she will go back to Mother Moore and then be on her way to Slammer Moon. She will be a real good citizen by the time she is eighteen."

<p lang="en-US">Exa starred with a hollow expression on her small face at the floor.

<p lang="en-US">"Officer is there any way to prevent that?"

<p lang="en-US">He tapped his PDD."Well she is a Non Citizen and technically if she paid her fines for this and her long string of theft charges, she could be released. But who would want to pay the 16,000 credits for something as worthless as her?"

<p lang="en-US">"She is a sentient being and she should be priceless instead of worthless just for that reason. I guess the shiny and good Union has a dark and dirty Underside after all!"

<p lang="en-US">"Nothing is perfect Citizen, besides we have places and institutions to deal with such, like Mother Moore and the Social Bureau."

<p lang="en-US">"I am going to pay her fines!"

<p lang="en-US">He shrugged."It's your money Citizen, but she will be out in the Port Concourse tomorrow and steal and beg as soon as you are gone."

<p lang="en-US">"Not if I can help it, Officer."

<p lang="en-US">I put my hand on Exa's shoulder and said."Let's go girl."

<p lang="en-US">On our way to the elevator she said." You are not angry with me? Do you want to kill me now that you bought me?"

<p lang="en-US">"The idea had crossed my mind when you sent me to dream land, but you are a child and you did what others told you to do. I didn't buy either."

<p lang="en-US">"Do you want me to clean your pecker?"

<p lang="en-US">I shivered in disgust." Of course not Exa and I am promising you I find a way so you never have to do that again!"

<p lang="en-US">A Police man stood by the Elevator." Press nine and it gets you to Sub-Level Nine Sir. From there you can find an Inter Port Transport to get you all the way up."

<p lang="en-US">"Thank you Officer."

<p lang="en-US">"Great work, Sir. Word will spread like wild fire and keep the ruts in line for a while. Teaches them to mess with a Viking Pirate"

<p lang="en-US">"They still call us Pirates after all that time?"

<p lang="en-US">He shrugged." I guess it was the only thing your planet really did to stand out for a while. No worries Citizen a little bad-ass rep goes a long way these days."

<p lang="en-US">I sighed and shrugged and pushed Exa in the Elevator. Then I said to her."We still have a deal, right? You show me around and will be my tour guide and in return I pay you to take a bath and then we find you something better to wear as well."

<p lang="en-US">She looked up to me."I will keep my bargain this time, I promise."

<p lang="en-US">"Good enough for me!" "How did you survive the drowning?"

<p lang="en-US">"It's hard to drown someone who can breathe water."

<p lang="en-US">"Like a fish?"

<p lang="en-US">"Well I was told more like a Sea turtle but basically yes."

<p lang="en-US">The Vertigo Bridge was an amazing sight. About fifty meters wide, about twenty high and according to Exa, exactly 1600 meters long. Except for the Metal frame work and slide ways on each side, the bridge was completely transparent. Rain pelted the roof. I could see the City on the other side.

<p lang="en-US">Children were lying on the floor pretending to fly. Locals walked or used the Slide ways without hesitation, visitors and some tourists clearly stood out as some of them hesitated to take the first step. There was laughter and shrieks.

<p lang="en-US">Exa walked a few steps out and said." 3000 meters below us is Twilight River. The river carved this canyon out of the very hard granite rock. The River fed by the perpetual rain and the canyon are almost 6000 kilometers long, making it one of the longest rivers on any known planet in the Union. It has the longest stretch of white water turbulences and there are 321 waterfalls of which the Skull Mist Veil seventy kilometers up river from here is the widest and the Giant shower 200 klicks down river the highest with a 1400 meter drop. Twilight river is visited by over 6 million white water sports enthusiasts and we have thousands of river water sports related clubs, associations and equipment manufacturers."

<p lang="en-US">The steep v shaped rock walls glistened wet and green. Dense green forests lined both sides; the river itself was a small band of green snaking in a crackly line as far as I could see into both directions.

<p lang="en-US">"Are you coming or are you afraid? We could use one of the Cable cars or the Swing tram. Or if you do not like heights at all we can of course also use the Trans Planet Mag-tube."

<p lang="en-US">"No I am not afraid. It is the first time I actually see another world and I was taking in the sights."

<p lang="en-US">I followed her and now I could see a big A frame steel construct in the distance connecting the two sides and dozens of capsules attached to the apex of the A frame with thin cables swung back and forth.

<p lang="en-US">She said."That's the swing tram. It belongs actually to the Amusement park and connects both sides of the park build into the walls, there are no absorbers or anything you feel the full effect of the swing and it is along with the bridge the most popular attraction."

<p lang="en-US">"You really know your stuff and you sound like a real tour guide"

<p lang="en-US">She smiled proudly. "Sometimes I am lucky and they look past the dirt, and then they hire me as a tourguide and I can earn some credits in tips. She pointed throught the floor. "The river below teams with fish. None of them are native as there is no local animal life but they were brought in from Earth. Do you want to go fish? It also is very popular!"

<p lang="en-US">"No not really. I come from a planet where fishing is a major part of life. I would not mind to find out how they taste, though."

<p lang="en-US">She waved me over to the Slide way and we rode on it and reached the peak of the arched bridge in no time. There the bridge widened and was not transparent. On the left were a dozen shops and restaurants and on the right a Hotel.

<p lang="en-US">The man behind the reception desk was human and he looked me and the girl up and down and said."Sorry we do not service Bottoms, even if you received bed vouchers from Social. The community sleep hall is on Port side Level 7."

<p lang="en-US">I wondered why he treated me like this but then I saw my reflection in a big mirror. I was smeared with black sod and dust from head to toe.

<p lang="en-US">"I need two rooms with baths. I am not a Bottom and neither is she."

<p lang="en-US">"I am sorry sir but it is peak season and I am booked solid, except for the Crystal Suite for 1500 credits a night. It does have several separate bed rooms however."

<p lang="en-US">I took the credit chip out of the secure chip compartement of the PDD, activated it with my Bionetics and my code so that he could see the amount displayed."I did not ask how much the accommodationscost, now did I? I'll gladly put down a deposit and then I would like to have a bath, laundry service and a few hours of peace and quiet."

<p lang="en-US">His chin dropped." Holy mother of god! Sir if you want I call the Super Lux and have them send Butler service! He became all fluttery and asked us to follow him.

<p lang="en-US">The Crystal suite was incredible. Extending like a bay window out into sheer nothingness. With transparent walls and floors, but partially covered with deep soft carpets, luxurious furniture and it even had a transparent fireplace, that I found particular incredible to look at. He said." The suite has the latest in GalNet technology Sir, fully Holo Avatar capable in all rooms. The glass bottom Jacuzzi, and everything else can be turned opaque. The Auto Dresser was just delivered last week and accepts downloads form all major fashion houses. Oh and don't worry about the transparency. You can see out, no one can see in, of course."

<p lang="en-US">After he was gone with a nice tip, Exa said." The bed rooms inside walls turn opaque as soon as you close the door from the inside. That is so cool!"

<p lang="en-US">"Now get cleaned up girl and use the Auto Dresser and I do the same and then we figure out what we going to do with you.

<p lang="en-US">I had heard of auto dressers but never seen or used one. It was basically a rectangular box with an automatic door. As I stepped in, the door closed and it was completely dark for maybe a second, then a voice said." Species recognized, human, male. Loading tailor simulation. Suddenly I stood before a three leaf mirror in what looked like an old fashioned clothing store, with wooden shelves. A man in a gray suit said." Welcome to Crystal Palace Hotels. This is a SII – Lux IX Auto Dresser and I am James the Standard Human Male Start Sequence Avatar. This is the London Tailor set."

<p lang="en-US">Before me appeared a glowing circle with small representations of other sets.

<p lang="en-US">"You may choose any of the 35 standard Sets, design your own or upload your preferred set from your PDD. "

<p lang="en-US">I said." Skip this selection sequence and begin." Casual standard clothing."

<p lang="en-US">I felt something constricting my body, as the assembly arms and nanites started their work. Invisibe to me inside the simulation. My reflection in the mirror showed me a selection of pants and shirts. I choose black leather pants, All terrain boots and a dark blue shirt.

<p lang="en-US">James the Simulation said." This model is fully stylist and hygiene enabled. Do you wish a shave, hair styling, massage or body hygiene sequences?"

<p lang="en-US">I had a few blonde whiskers and wondered if I should keep wearing my hair in braids, the system offered me a few style suggestions and I opted for a pony tail and a shave.

<p lang="en-US">As I stepped out I wore the clothing I had selected and my hair in the new fashion. Exa was still busy in the bath room so I sat down before the GalNet terminal and asked to be connected to Mr. Silverzweig.

<p lang="en-US">He came on almost immediately and I saw he was in some kind of meeting." Hello Eric! Nice of you to call! Is there something I can help you with?"

<p lang="en-US">"If you are busy I can always call later, Sir."

<p lang="en-US">"Call me David. I call you Eric after all. This is a boring conference on Tuktian Law, I activated the privacy screen. Please tell me what is on your mind."

<p lang="en-US">I told him about my latest adventure, about Exa and the inhumane conditions she had described at Mother Moore. While I talked he actually took notes on a paper pad with a pen and then said." Your Grandfather was very much like that. He too could not look away or keep his nose out of trouble. I am glad you called me. I am going to call a friend of mine and have him investigate Mother Moore and if we can proof any wrong doings, we shut them down. As for Exa, you are not old enough to adopt her or become her legal guardian, but your father, your Uncle Hogun or any other adult on Nilfeheim could. If you can organize an official invitation from Nilfeheim, she can then legally travel there."

<p lang="en-US">"Good Idea. I do that!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am glad I could be of service. I agree with you that the Union as whole should do something about that. I will think about it for a while and keep you posted if I have an idea."

<p lang="en-US">After I said good bye I called home and it was Greifen who took the call."Greetings Eric! The Lord your father is down in the basements with the construction crew. We're digging a few more levels out of the rock and expand leather production. Your sister is a whirlwind of ideas! One moment I think Midril is signaling me...ah yes Elena is coming!"

<p lang="en-US">Elena appeared, taking off her cold mask and her thick gloves and yelled."Eric!"

<p lang="en-US">After exchanging family and local gossip I told her the story. Exa had silently appeared next to me and stared at Elena. My sister got an angry face and said." Those bastards! You send that girl on her way here. I'll talk to the Ancient and father right away to get that invitation. I will call you back in an hour."

<p lang="en-US">Exa said."That lady looked like a princess. Who is she?"

<p lang="en-US">"That was Elena, my sister." I turned and stopped talking. Exa had transformed from a filthy underground kid to a beautiful little girl. The Auto dresser had changed her dusty gray mob of short hair in a shiny brown bob cut. Her skin was so fine it almost had a translucent shine to it. She wore a nice green dress with white lace around the collar and sleeves. The skirt reached to her knees and she wore white tights and black shoes. She blushed." I always wanted a dress. I never had one. You don't like it, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"You look very nice and like a girl should, you are also clean and that is a major improvement!"

<p lang="en-US">She smiled."I smell good too! I used perfumed soap!"

<p lang="en-US">I motioned her to sit down and said."Exa I do not want you to do anything you don't like. The door is not locked and you can go whenever you like, but I would like to send you to my home world Nilfeheim. There are people who will take care of you, never touch you if you don't want them and there is always plenty to eat. You can wear dresses all day long and when School starts in a few months you can go to Union school with many other girls and go home afterwards every day. Granted Nilfeheim is not the most hospitable planet and it is going to be cold for a long time, with lots of snow. But we got warm burgs and lots of warm things to eat and wear. It is only a suggestion of course. I am not sending you there if you do not want, okay?"

<p lang="en-US">She listened and said." I don't have to be a Bottom there?"

<p lang="en-US">"No Exa, they don't even know what a Bottom, if you say you are a Bottom they think you want to be a pair of pants or something."

<p lang="en-US">She giggled for the first time like a girl." That sounds funny. Can I think about it for a little?"

<p lang="en-US">"Sure! Why don't you eat something while you think? I am sure you can order food here."

<p lang="en-US">Exa had eaten and fallen asleep on the sofa as the GalNet Unit blinked and the Olafson Wolf logo appeared. I accepted right away. It was Uncle Hogun, Aunt Freydis, Elena and the Ancient, all together at the family table at Hogun's Inn. The ancient spoke first." Eric you did the right thing to call us. I informed Egill and he will transmit to you an official invitation of the government of Nilfeheim to little Exa. Your father said immediately yes, but your Uncle Hogun and his wife really would love to invite the girl to them, where is she?"

<p lang="en-US">Exa stepped into the capture field of the visual sensor and she said shyly," I am right here."

<p lang="en-US">Aunt Freydis clapped her hands together." Oh you are adorable! Exa, I am Freydis and this is my husband Hogun. Don't be afraid of his beard, he is very nice, we are relatives of Eric and we would love to welcome you in our home if you want to come."

<p lang="en-US">Exa wiped a tear from her face." Yes please if you really allow me to come. I promise I won't steal anything and eat very little. I can also help and work!"

<p lang="en-US">Now it was Aunt Freydis who wiped tears away and Uncle Hogun turned away. My aunt said." You sent that little lady to us right away, Eric, you hear? "

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun blew his nose in a huge kerchief and faced the visual sensor again."You can eat all you want and you don't need to steal anything. All you have to do is ask and it will be yours!"

<p lang="en-US">The Ancient smiled warmly."Eric make sure she travels safely!"

<p lang="en-US">I handed Exa a data Chip." This is your official Nilfeheim Invitation. It allows you to travel there! It also holds a few credits, so you don't travel without means. You won't need much money on Nilfeheim that I can assure you. I hired you a charter shuttle that takes you straight there, so there are no stops and it isn't very far either. The suit cases with your extra dresses we bought are already loaded. Am I forgetting anything?"

<p lang="en-US">She said."Yes Eric! Can you kneel for me?"

<p lang="en-US">I did and she flung her arms around my neck."Thank you Eric!"

<p lang="en-US">I hugged her too." Don't be afraid when you see Uncle Hogun. He is very big but I assure you he is the gentlest person you will ever meet and try not to steal too much. Neo Vikings don't have a lot of patience for that, but you got 20,000 credits on that chip. You should be able to buy what you want."

<p lang="en-US">She pressed her cheek against mine and whispered." I will not steal I promise. If I can have a place where I belong, I don't need anything else."

<p lang="en-US">I walked with her to the D 20 FTL shuttle I had hired and she climbed in. The pilot tipped his hand to his head and said." One Passenger to Nilfeheim, all aboard young Lady, we going to be there in no time!"

<p lang="en-US">The shuttle climbed, slipped through the rain shield membrane and disappeared in the clouds. I decided to check out the amusement park and do a little sight-seeing before I would board the bus to Blue Moon and from there to Arsenal. I didn't expect any more troubles. Besides what could go wrong in an amusement park?

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 6: Defenders of Gore

-GalNet Entry Planet  Guayas

Guayas is the 3rd planet in the Dom Seis System. Dom Seis is one of the six F Spectral type Stars in the Hyades Cluster 152 Light years from Terra. The Hyades Cluster was the main home of the Xunx. After the Terran –Xunx war only a few useable garden worlds were found in the Hyades Cluster. One of the few untouched garden worlds was Guayas. Opened for colonization in 2177 and colonized by seventeen groups of indigenous people of South America, Australia, Africa and the South Pacific (Earth regions). These tribes bemoaned the loss of lands and their traditional ways to the influence of European settlers and claimed that the influx of Alien technology would further deteriorate their way of living. Planet Guayas a rich Type 3B Garden world with 4 continents, sprawling rain forests, and a very mild tropical climate was first surveyed by Captain Eduardo Sezcan of the USS Palermo, he being a Native of Ecuador brought many images home and convinced the tribes to colonize this world.

This was before the formation of the United Stars of the Galaxy and the Native settlers insisted on strict isolation and did not want to belong to the Association of Earth Colonies (Pre Union Organization of Earth Colonies, now defunct). The seventeen tribes thrived and most of them shed all trappings of modern society and returned to Stone Age conditions but with surprisingly great success."

During the 4th Inter Galactic War, the Kermac War thrall species, the Nogoll invaded Guayas to use the planet as resupply depot for a direct attack on Sol and Earth. A Regiment of Space Marines orbital jumped onto Guayas, fought almost to the last man to prevent a Nogoll massacre on the Native population, today known as the Battle of Guayas and still remembered in the seventh strophe of the Marine Hymn. After the war, the Chiefs of the seventeen tribes agreed to have a Union Post with a Clinic, Post Office, Gal Net station and Union School. Mostly to prevent such an event from ever happening again, Guayas became a Union world in 3200 and is a full Member. Mao Tsuta is the current Pluribus Representative. The Seventeen tribes maintain a Type 100 P Culture without prohibiting their tribal members to obtain technology. There is no formal government and the tribes keep their own independent chiefs. They do come together once a year for a big celebration during which planet matters are discussed, such as the election of a Representative if necessary. Only about five percent of the population is registered as Union Citizens and travel abroad, but young men are honored and considered especially brave if they choose a career as marines to repay the planets debt to that branch of the military. Tribal wars are fairly common and also the practice of head hunting. Tribal wars are highly ritualistic in nature and the biggest death toll is perhaps five or six men. Their semiannual sporting events are much more dangerous and claim more lives. While the individual cultures maintained their own distinctive ways, over the long time some of the practices and traditions are an amalgam of all cultures. While 95 percent of the population claims to belong to the Old Catholic Church of Earth, they have strongly altered that religion and developed a very unique brand of this faith, with a heavy focus on shamanism, demon and spirit worship.

The rich indigenous flora and fauna has many consumable species and some species are dangerous to man but the locals have learned to live with these dangers.

There is virtually no export, except for some tribal made craft items. The sale of shrunken heads is officially prohibited. Also there is virtually no import except for knives, shot guns and other very basic items.

Union Post Papua town is considered the Capital. A small Hotel, several shops and a Class K Space port (leveled dirt field) is frequented every two month by space bus and Post ship. Flyers are rare, only the Clinic and the Hotel operate a small fleet of them. One Company provides public transport to all continents and Island groups via a fleet of wood fired steam ships. Tourism is not unknown and not prohibited but not encouraged either.

<p lang="en-US">Mao Mao Vouza was the son of the Papuan tribal Chief Mao Pappy Vouza. His grandfather had seen the Union marines fight for them and instilled a longing for the outer worlds and stars in his grandson. The Papuans were of Austronesian descent and usually bigger than the members of the Native American or African tribes. The Papuans had settled a group of large islands in the South East Sea and for most of the year had no or very little contact with others, Mao always loved to listen to his grandfathers stories of the valiant soldiers dropping out of the heavens, fighting the green scaled monsters that also had come from a world beyond the clouds and was allowed to visit the Union School in Post Papua. His father hoped he would join the United Stars Marine corps. Not knowing that his son had other plans. Mao was even for Neo Papuan standards big. At the age of fifteen he was considered one of the strongest men and a regular winning participant at the wrestling and strength contests during the Sports games. He already had much of his family history tattooed on his left shoulder and arm and all in all was known to be as good natured as he was strong and honor full.

<p lang="en-US">Summer break was almost there and school would be out in five weeks. By next year he hoped to be accepted at the United Stars Academy. While a career as marine was nothing bad. He had seen a school Virtu of a Battle ship opening fire and ever since he wanted to become the one sitting behind the bridge station officially called tactical but he knew the fleet slang for it. Weapon System Officers who held the tactical position on a battle ship sat behind the Firing Piano! Because like a musician of a piano or an organ pressing many buttons and contacts and so releasing a fire storm of destruction. Behind his family's hut he had built himself a replica of a Firing Piano, when he was a kid. It was made of wood, sticks and mud and colorful shells and rocks for buttons, but in his imagination it saved the day when he destroyed Dai Than Fleets, Kermac Battle ships and Y' All Armadas.

<p lang="en-US">His teacher Mr. Roundtree was actually a Native American of Earth and despite the fact that he was an Off-worlder very highly regarded by everyone, stopped him as he wanted to leave class."Mr. Mao Mao what are your plans for this your last summer break?"

<p lang="en-US">Mao said."I don't have many plans. I will participate in the sports games for the last time, study the books on Weapon systems you organized for me and wait till October to travel to the Academy."

<p lang="en-US">"The Union Education Board has a Student exchange Program and they looking for exceptional students to spend their last month of school and the three month of summer break with another culture. Since you are my best student I thought I would offer you the opportunity. It is all paid, of course but they are also looking for an exceptional brave student who would accept the invitation of a new Union Member species called the Archas. Because their form frightens many humans they want to show that it is only the form and that they are not as they appear."

<p lang="en-US">"I am deeply honored that you thought of me. If my father agrees, I will go!"

<p lang="en-US">"You don't ask me how they look like, who they are or where they are?"

<p lang="en-US">"If I would ask those questions you would not have picked me, Mr. Roundtree. They are Union members and they are sentient. If I would base my decision on how they look I would neither be brave nor a good citizen."

<p lang="en-US">Roundtree put his hand on Mao's shoulder." Indeed Mr. Mao Mao, this is why I have chosen you. I asked your father first and he has permitted it, pending your decision."

<p lang="en-US">"I think it is a great opportunity. So I can experience the Up world before I go to the Academy and show everyone I come from a stone-age civilization."

<p lang="en-US">"Well the space bus will be here in 2 days. I will go in town and make a GalNet call to arrange everything."

Chapter Six – Defenders of Gore

<p lang="en-US">The Swing Tram was something else. Passenger cabins suspended on a long cable released from a docking port swung across the Canyon and clinked into a similar port on the other side. For a short moment you felt weightless then at the base of the swing several gee's pressed down on you while the rock wall came rushing towards the capsule. The docking station was cleverly disguised behind a holo image of rock. People were screaming as loud speakers transmitted crushing sounds and even though I would never tell anyone, I think I screamed too at the first time. The roller coaster ride bolted right to the rock wall and then seemingly dipping into the river through a transparent tunnel was so awesome I did it three times. I was kicked out the Tunnel of Horrors after I knocked out a Ghost that actually was an actor in a glowing costume. I told them I never been in a Tunnel of Horrors before and thought the apparition was really attacking the woman before me. The ghost however accepted my apologies after I paid him 2000 credits for his pain he suffered from the broken jaw.

<p lang="en-US">The Spider Bot ride up and down the sheer rock walls strapped to the back of a six legged robot spider was quite unnerving but I was told there were no accidents in the last 100 years of that attraction and the robots were designed to do that and had safety features like directional Arti-grav that prevented a fall.

<p lang="en-US">It all was fun but I thought it be more fun with someone to share the thrills and then talk about them. Just doing them alone was just not the same. I wished I could do this with Elena or perhaps Gunnar or Ygral. I wondered where those two were at the moment.

<p lang="en-US">So I left the Amusement park and went to the main shopping area of the City Dusk. I could not believe the size of the buildings and to realize that they were occupied and all the flyers and taxis carried passengers. Yet Dusk was not the biggest city on Twilight and nothing more than a Silver Flicker was to a Tyranno compared to Pluribus. There was also plenty of pedestrian traffic and especially here in the main shopping area. One Shop's advertisement sign caught my eye: "A. Vogt and Isher – Weapon Merchants and Gun Smiths"

<p lang="en-US">I did send Mördaren home and I was a Neo Viking, since I was unable to stay out of trouble maybe I could get me another sword or something.

<p lang="en-US">Inside were glass cases and three dimensional displays of every weapon imaginable. Spears, Axes, Swords, guns, beamers rocket launchers and everything in between. A lighted sign over the main counter read." the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." Next to it a poster proclaimed the owners to be genuine Terrans."

<p lang="en-US">Why this was a selling argument I had no idea, but it seemed to impress the fish faced Ult talking to a Klack while looking at the weapon's displayed." Those monkey-boys from Earth sure know how to make weapons don't they?"

<p lang="en-US">I did not hear the Klack response as a bald headed man came over and said." Can I help you find anything in particular?"

<p lang="en-US">I shrugged." I am from Nilfeheim and we usually carry only swords. I am no expert on distance weapons."

<p lang="en-US">He checked his PDD." We are sending swords and knives there a lot. I just checked, Nilfeheim has no local restriction laws on any weapons and I can fix you up with a Federal Class Three license in no time. Class three is the highest civilian class. Only a few civilians are permitted to own Mil Grade level IV and higher, like the Citizens from Green Hell for example. But mind you, there is a great selection for Class three!"

<p lang="en-US">"Alright fix me up then!"

<p lang="en-US">Ten minutes later my CIT chip had a new add on. Federal Weapons bearer License Class III. He then guided me to a Display case." These are more advanced swords. He places one on the counter." This is a Marine Corps Issue Chain sword. Three thousand molecular compacted, monofilament Ultronit teeth with a micro coating of Neutronium. Revolving around the blade extendable to 150 cm at five times the speed of sound. Each tooth vibrates at 25,000 cycles a second. No known material can withstand this baby, except for reinforced Neutronium. Will cut a fully armored Nul in half like cutting butter with a hot knife."

<p lang="en-US">I picked it up. It was heavy. He spread his hands, "even at atom thin layer of Neutronium is quite heavy." He handed me something that looked like a sword handle. No blade at all. "This, my Viking friend is a mono filed sword. Activate it here and you see it generates a 180 cm long purple barely visible Para-Dim force field. It its almost two dimensional and slide right between the molecular bondage of most materials and sever it. Also cutting most materials up to Ultronit and is quite effective against a shielded person or target."

<p lang="en-US">He pointed behind him." Of course we have no tech and low tech versions of every sword and bladed weapon known to the Union, for most you don't need any license. How about guns?"

<p lang="en-US">"As I said I am no expert in guns and I rather stick with something I know."

<p lang="en-US">"We have self-aiming weapons but you would need a Neuro connector for those. Beam Gloves and shoot fingers, laser eyes are all class six weapons. Meaning weapons must by law look like weapons and cannot be hidden in something else or made to look like something else, unless you have a Class VI license, but I don't know anyone who has one."

<p lang="en-US">I think I take that chain sword. "It sure looks awesome and if it is good for the marines it's bound to be good for me."

<p lang="en-US">"Good choice. It comes with a twelve shot Nano Thermite flamer. Do not use that indoors!"

<p lang="en-US">In its retracted state it was just underarm long and came with a holster.

<p lang="en-US">Feeling much more like a Viking again. I left the place. The next space bus that would go into a direction I needed was not due until tomorrow.

<p lang="en-US">Several of the Gun stores customers and sales persons had gone outside and I went too, to see what was this all about. A group of men and women, I counted twenty three, wore white blood stained sheets, and hand painted signs and banners. The banners read:" Free Gore! Stop killing the Living Planet; expel all colonists and Corporations from Gore!, Fight for the Rights of Gore!

<p lang="en-US">The group was trailed by four Police men and an equal number of robots. Most pedestrians and shoppers completely ignored them. Someone in the group I was standing in said." I don't know why they allow those whacko terrorists to protest. Those are all Gal Drifts anyway. Useless maggots!"

<p lang="en-US">The protest group suddenly stopped and pelted everyone in sight with red plastic bags.

<p lang="en-US">A blonde with a fanatical glare in her face tossed one in my direction and I was able to avoid it only partially, the thing burst, hitting my shoulder instead of my face and splattered me with a red liquid. I really had to stop myself and resist the urge to tell her what I thought about this, but I would not get into more trouble. The Cops and robots already reacted. A flyer swiftly swopped down and dropped several football shaped objects. The Robots and several of the Guns store customer reacted and fired at the dropping spheres. Two popped and the Police robots collapsed! I turned to run inside the gun store for cover. No need for me to be involved in something I had no idea what it was all about.

<p lang="en-US">I rushed in and stared into a gun. Three men and a woman in blood stained sheets and hoods held guns. The bald headed man lay wounded on the floor and two others were quite dead, one missing a head and the other had a fist size black hole where his heart was. A fourth Gun store employee had his hands raised. The men were grabbing guns and weapons and putting them in carry bags.

<p lang="en-US">The gun pointing at me was held by a woman. Even the white sheet did not hide her female shape completely and there was red hair sticking out from underneath the white hood."

<p lang="en-US">"Don't be a hero! Stick your hand to the ceiling and you walk out alive!"

<p lang="en-US">I did and I wondered what the odds were to be the victim of a crime twice in two days, I was very proud of myself not to do what I wanted to do. I told myself."These are not your guns. The police are already here and tomorrow I would be on my way to Arsenal.

<p lang="en-US">One of the masked men looked out the window."The decoys aren't doing too well. There is more police and they shot down our Flyer!"

<p lang="en-US">The Bald headed sales person did not look to good. His left arm was a burned stump and he shivered, a clear sign of shock and he looked pleading at me for help! The girl covering me turned to look, that was my chance and I grabbed her wrist with the hand holding the blaster twisting her arm to her back turning her that way in a painful way forcing her like a shield before me. She yelped in pain and I took her gun with the other hand and pressed it in her back, while her gang turned to face me. Aiming their weapons but not shooting."Let her go, bastard and we let you get away alive!"

<p lang="en-US">"I blast her to bits. I don't know what gun this is but my finger is at the trigger and I am very nervous!"

<p lang="en-US">"Hero, you don't know who you are messing with!"

<p lang="en-US">"A bunch of crocks dressed like idiots robbing a gun store, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"Last chance Hero. Our cause is more important than her. I shoot right through her if I have to. We are the Gore Defenders and if you even care a little about Gore, you let us do our thing!"

<p lang="en-US">"I have no clue who that is. Now quit talking and drop your guns."

<p lang="en-US">Just then an amplified voice said." This is Twilight Police. Union Police is on its way to assist us. The store is surrounded. Surrender and we will guarantee a fair trial."

<p lang="en-US">The speaker of them yelled back." We have hostages and we carry Spore Bombs. We are not afraid to use them. Half the planet will be depopulated before you can stop it. We won't wait till you had a chance to get the PSI Corps here or Union SWAT. Our demands are simple." Bring a Flyer to the front door and have a D 12 FTL shuttle ready at the port. We will release the hostages then."

<p lang="en-US">I had aimed the gun between arm and body of the girl "Did you forget about me Loudmouth?" I fired. The gun blast roasted the gang leaders head. And he collapsed. I fired again as the other two hesitated and one more died. The woman however reacted equally fast and hammered the back of her head into my nose. I was blinded by pain. She screamed."Shoot him Josh, now!"

<p lang="en-US">I simply let myself drop. Something incredibly hot singed the top of my head and then my eye sight cleared enough and I pressed the trigger once again aiming a beam was easier than I thought. He had hesitated to fire as his first shot had still wounded the woman, her robe was actually on fire and she tried to get out of it using only one arm. My shot had hit the man where his neck met his torso and now police and robots came storming in. One robot fired a weapon arm at me!

<p lang="en-US">I regained consciousness and cursed like a Nubhir skinner." This is the second time I got paralyzed on this Fangsnapper dung place planet!" I looked around as I sat up. I was on some sort of emergency stretcher in a medical clinic of sorts and a dozen police men, a news man and a doctor were present. The doctor said." I restored your scalp and replaced most of your ear and gave you a hair grower. You should have your hair back in two three days."

<p lang="en-US">"My hair?"

<p lang="en-US">A man in civilian clothing said." Your head was on fire. The robot put you in stasis. While you were in restoration surgery we checked on you, Mr. Olafson. It seems the Hero of Nilfeheim just became the Hero of Twilight. I am William Reynolds, Planet Governor and I am here to thank you!"

<p lang="en-US">"For spoiling a Gun store robbery, a thank you card and a free subscription to a gun magazine would have been sufficient, Sir."

<p lang="en-US">"The Gore Defenders really had a Spore bomb on his body and he was fanatic enough to use it. We are still investigating how they got the hands on one."

<p lang="en-US">"I have no idea who the Gore Defenders are and what a spore bomb is, but I got a Bus to catch, Sir."

<p lang="en-US">"Mr. Olafson as I said we checked on you. You are according to your Planets representative on your way to Arsenal to apply at the Academy. You are traveling with Space Bus and you still have several weeks time. We would like to thank you and have booked a passage on a Fast Luxury Clipper that will take you to Corridor and from there you can resume your journey aboard a Space Bus to Arsenal gate. "

<p lang="en-US">One of the police men said." The Gore Defenders are a small but fanatical terror group recruiting their members from a sub culture called the Galactic Drifters. Their aim is to remove all colonists and companies from a planet called Gore II. That system and planet is only eighteen light years from here and since the planet is corporate owned and security is very tight, they bring their protests to other planets, unfortunately also to Twilight.

<p lang="en-US">"A spore bomb is a Terran/ X101 development out of the War spores used by the Kermac and the Piostla during the last war. Aerial self replicating genetically engineered spores eating anything organic, a spore develops a fast expanding greenish foam that only stops when there is no organic material left, or it is contained in a force field. It would have rendered every being on the twilight strip into a skeleton and every plant, every piece of wood, every rubber and fish into a gob of green slime and it would do that in about ten minutes. We would not have enough time to evacuate, or set up enough force fields for everyone. So you really did save millions of lives and our economy. Not to mention the live of one of the gun store owners."

<p lang="en-US">The Planet Governor said." Why don't you be our guest for two or three days and you still be way too early at Arsenal Gate. I offer you a personal sight-seeing tour! "

<p lang="en-US">"Heck why not."

<p lang="en-US">The Governor kept his word and it was actually the coolest thing. He took me on a white water rafting trip, which I enjoyed greatly. Showed me Night side and the beautiful site of the Night side town, it reminded me of Isen Landsby but this town was much bigger and was called the City of a billion lights. It sparkled and looked very pretty especially from a distance. There I was invited to a fine Diner with lots of local fish and it was quite good.

<p lang="en-US">Now on the second day we were to visit Day town and according to the Governor the best way to get there was by Dust Bouncer. The bouncer was a 50 meter long machine riding on eight enormous balloon tires. It had several cabins inside with beds and a small staffed kitchen. On its top was a panorama lounge with great view of the glaring desert. Big Ball the enormous gaseous planet occupied most of the sky and it was the most impressive sight I had seen so far. The Gas giant's atmosphere was a kaleidoscope of swirling colors and two of the other big Nilfeheim sized moons could clearly be seen as well. We sat in the comfortable panorama lounge while the vehicle was rolling through the desert. He sipped at his drink and said." The day side is much more dangerous and unforgiving than the night side. With enough warm clothing and a face mask you can survive outside on the night side for a while, but the day side is bombarded by radiation and heat. Weather does not change on Twilight. Winds blow in the same direction due to the convection caused by the temperature differences and that they do since this moon exists. Grinding whatever mountains this place once had into a powder fine dust, filling many valleys. There are oceans of this powdery dust out here. It is so fine that it almost behaves like a liquid, or a non Newtonian liquid to be exact, it is so fine you can easily drown in it. Some of these dust lakes are several kilometers deep, that's why this bouncer has those enormous wheels. It actually floats on the dust."

<p lang="en-US">"And it is mined?" I asked.

<p lang="en-US">"Yes it has actually many industrial uses, like bore hole stabilization but it contains also almost every metal and useful mineral and already in microscopic kernel size. Easy to separate and already refined."

<p lang="en-US">The steward who had just served the drinks came back up the small stair case walking backwards! I found that odd and then a woman appeared, half of her face was burned and she held a weapon. "Stay seated, Gentlemen. I managed to escape as you can see and I got two perfect hostages. This bouncer is under our control and while the Governor will help me to get my demands fulfilled. I have other plans for you Mr. Hero!"