Book Of Nakkiis -Segment One

Book Of ’Nakiis

Segment One

Words of the Prophetess Albastak

From The Ga Ha Rim- Holy Book of the ‘Nakiis’

The Gateway Revealed of the Head of the Waters

“For we may go forward, and we may find failure...yet, it is within us the Will and ability to Live to Fight another day FOR THAT WHAT IS MOST PRECIOUS TO US- the Targi of the Tornai! Life is long and lived evermuch! Let us proscribe to all the Sentients who have lived before- For everthus shall we become the New Sentients of the Wars of Knowledge.”

La Lachum May Yum Na Wa

“To this our bread and water.”

“ Matrix transmission 519- 10-4... 519! Do you read? Hello transmission code 519 this is Homebase Star Command- your transmission has been corrupted- what are your coordinates?! Matrix 519! Do you read!?”

The Reption could not confirm the coordinates and they had to abandon the search. She was assistant ensen on the Armada Command ship of the S.S. Euralias, an Alantean built vessel which she had come to serve in the Command since the recent reckoning events. She conferred to the ships ’Commander Jedicii this pertinent information who took it in with interest.

Commander Jedicii had been raised in the Saturnian Transition Station Corinth as a slave but had been freed since her youth. She had been earmarked for the Command Council and even in her early years had distinguished herself as an astute and brave leader. The missing of the full communication by her team she took personally, and everyone knew they had let her down although she tried to hide it. Commander Shayleen Comas Jedicii was no one to fool with. She did not like to lose and her green eyes flashed when angry and her untameable curly red Atlantean hair invariably shook loose when that happened. Those of her command gave her a wide berth when it did, which was not very often- for she almost always found another angle which did prove successful when pressed...and right now she was pressed.

“Matrix 519” - the sound of the pleading voice on the other end of the transmission echoed in the cavern of her mind for several weeks, it had the vague reminiscence of her younger sister Meg, who had died very young- the sound haunted her. She grew weary of her taunt words to her undeserving crew one evening after an explosion after a crew member jokingly commentd on her her eating alone one night and she went to her quarters in anger and then shame. Sighing she called forth her Sub-Commander, Torath, to sit after the evening meal. It was comfortable but not luxurious.

The Euralias was not a commercial ship. She was designed and built by the High Council of the Ancients which had been recommissioned and re-fired by Shayleens’ direct ancestors to find and extract the homeless souls who had been trapped in the numerous Matrixes built by the Kabal. Their history books spoke of them as a dark evil force which came from a realm called Chaos, which few remember as the realm of the Dark Lord whom had many names and manifested in star systems in various forms- only recognizable by his” dark energy” that created “ dark matter”- unmanifested Light as it were- but that is dear reader for another time.

Shayleen needed someone to be her sounding board. She almost always knew what she should do before she did it, but had learned to put it before her trusted council assistants before she did now – to the great relief of her subordinates.

“ Do sit Torath, I need your advice.”

“ Yes Ma’am,” Came the reply, as his thick lumbering rocky and tawny sandstone furry frame body slung down into the only chair in the room which would hold his entirety of 600 lbs and 8 ft tall. It groaned and sagged but held to his relief- he had broken two chairs this very week and distressed to their cost on his wages which were meager enough.

“ How can I be of service my Commander?”

She then appraised him...looking ...beyond him and seemingly into his aura so as to seek out any misgiving he might have that present as unusual patterns within his massive half human, half animal auric field- but could find none. Her Seer heritage had not dissolved of her and she kept that secret well hidden but for those of whom she was well acquainted. Her search acquitted the Sargent at Arms on board and Wolffen friend for many years and she continued as if nary a pause was held.

“ Torath, I must ask of you a thing.”

It was a command – not a request.

“ Yes, Commander Jedicii, what is it you wish?”

“ I wish to find the Seventh Sister and to understand why it is that the transmission we received from Matrix 519 was broken off. I feel something ancient here Torath- do you?

“ There is no question about it Commander Jedicii, the Spirit was strong to get the message through at all. I fully agree, an in depth search should be commenced.” He gave a grave answer.

“ I am getting the feeling that someone is trapped there that we should very much release and it has been irritating me to no end...Come Torth- perhaps you can sequester information or help at the Council of Marduk while we are there next week.I know you have some Dragon comrades on that Council..something HAD to have blocked it and I must needs find a way to secure that landing. Are we clear? Yours and their assistance would be noted and well accommodated for.”

“ As you wish.” Came the reply from the aged whiskered thoughtful Wolffen Clan Chieftain that sat before her as they shared a glass of an old Forteneau she had been saving…

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Sophi woke up feeling soft sunlight on my face and wondered mildly where it was coming from. She reached over to find Deans’ shoulder and snuggled up to his back. He stirred and pulled her arm over him further. They lay there a few minutes just enjoying being together when a knock at our door broke the silence.

Startled and Sophi reached for her robe. He got up in underwear, hair tousled and answered the conventional door in our stateroom on board the Las- Angelico with a rather exasperated look upon his face.

The door swung open.

It was Calliopea. Her mouth flew open and her hand to her mouth.

“ You could have put some clothes on Dean! Jeeez.”

He yawned saying nothing but went to the bed giving me yet another one of those looks that said ’please get rid of her’.

Sophi laughed.

“ Cal- you simply need to learn to let people wake up on their own! What time have we got?

She looked at her watch.

“It’s seven-thirty.” she said with a tone and expression that said ’what- you haven’t also been awake for three hours?!’

She groaned.

“ Oh...only seven -thirty eh?… Um did you have something to actually say Cal? I mean, some reason to wake us up?”

She was squirming a bit now and twisting her fingers this way and that, which were slender and long, like the rest of her. She had immense blue eyes that usually shone and whispy fair hair which she had braided perfectly in old Viking style. She wore a practical blue tunic of natural weave with an intricate braid woven into the edging, darker blue stockings and high boots of good quality, with a shimmering bag that contained all sorts of unique devices which intrigued me.

“ Well you know we arrived at Spaceport Damascus during the night – or sleep time- and I want to go explore, but do not want to go alone. Please Sophi, come on. I want to see the market, the city...it’s...so exciting!”

The last words were spoken with a flair that had never failed to entice her to action- pleading and insistence- from one she had come to know again as her eldest sister from the Time of Reckoning past, Calliopea, her name drawn from the constellation of the three stars of summer, Cassiopea- she loved to enjoy the sights and sounds of people and places.

Sophi looked once more at Dean who just waved at me.

“ Go. Go ahead if you want. I,for one, am getting more shut eye. “

With that, he covered up his head and she went towards the private bathroom.

“ Ok. Ok! Getting up now. Argh... Give me a few minutes to get ready. Okay?”

“Lovely dear!” she sang and went into the adjacent room which served as our entertainment space with couches and actual plants to sit and wait for her.

She got herself ready in under fifteen minutes following Cals’ dress code with a short tunic dress with an open triangle at the neckline and long cotton shirt beneath. She was not sure if weapons were going to be needed, but just in case she put on my swarisa knife leg belt with a small leather purse with coin to spare.

She noticed the knife and wrinkled her nose, but said nothing but a sigh.

As we were leaving she said,

“ Bye Dean, I will bring you back something”

“ No thats thats good hon.. recall we have weeks here and do not buy out the market!”

Sophi laughed, closed the door after blowing a kiss.

They made our way through the maze of tunnels until we reached the spaceport. There was no need for high security here and many of the Damascus Security Team already knew her by face and smiled as they went through the “customs” of the city. Sophi smiled back and waved. They went through security with no issues. As they got to the other side Sophi felt a shiver of darkness and there was no clouds in the light blue sky as they stepped out into the sunlight cityscape of Damascus of Marduk- ancient city on Mars which had as rich a culture as the ancient lore on Earth.

She quickly forgot the shiver of darkness and filed it away as excitement.She breathed in the lighter air than she was used to which gave her a slight tingling in the fingers and made eyes brighter. They headed for the market.

Damacus was a very ancient city that had survived many holocausts over thousands of years. That was mainly due to its’ geographical location far up the ranging mountains of Arabella. The walls of the immense gorge which lay above and around the city were tall, unscalable by most and certainly not without being seen, were also riddled with caves .They were angling fortifications and the perfect refuge for those looking to protect themselves from attack.

Whole complexes of caves with large rooms carved into the sandy tawny rock showed evidence of vast amounts of water having been through them, for the sides were smooth and water eroded. They had been the headquarters of many rebellions over many years.

Sophi wanted to take an expedition down there soon and was working up to tell Dean of a “ romantic” get away plan. But, she had not worked herself up to it.

They saw Commander Luke with Las’ Ima on his arm, looking ever so proud at her widening girth. Cal waved at them and we met each other at the head of the market street of paved redstone.

There were several Damascus Security at the entrance of the gated market, which was fenced with again large slabs of the redstone of Marduk. They looked briefly at our ID and allowed us in with as little fuss as possible but with a stifled reverence Sophi had come to recognize among them as a sign of high reguard. Their perspective is one of character building. The famous or especially wise are not to be looked at or noticed too much, but acknowledged with a bow of the head or closed hand to the heart. Sophi noted , pleased that they were all wearing Psyche-Hoods. Those of ancient Atlantean descent went even further and would touch the hem of her clothes and show hands with wrists together to form a lotus and say “ Solara- Sunrise” to which she was told she should touch their heads or they would think she was dishonouring their entire family. It was a bit too formal for her, although deeply respected their goodheartedness and their thanks.

It was better once Las’Ima had begun to show the pregnancy and they often now went to her for the Farshay Blessing. She was the first Atlantean to be pregnant in 10,000 years- and THAT was a big deal to a great many people.

Of course, they all attributed it to her handling of the Eye of Wisdom Cystal ball, which now was being sung about all over the friendly galaxy.

She looked healthy. Her auburn hair danced in the Martian wind and Sophi swore her belly looked even more enormous since the last time they had seen each other.

“ You are almost as tall as you are wide- there Las’Ima” she teased.

Laughter with joy emerged from both of the expectant parents.

Her eyes brightened and she shook her head.

“ Not quite I am sure. At least I hope not.”

“ Well I only say that because I am jealous.”

Cal looked at her shocked.

“Really?” I thought you were going to wait!”

“ I did say that...but wish we could go ahead and make babies. I guess it will have to be put off until we secure all posts in the system. That is what we are here to discuss later. Do you know Thomas what other topics will be on the agenda this afternoon?” Sophi asked the tall sandy brown haired handsome man. He considered for a second and answered;

“ Yes we are discussing sweeps and state machinery. Food distribution will come up and special ops missions into those caves will be discussed as well. But let’s not bore the ladies, shall we? Come my dear,” he said taking her tiny but powerful hand,” let us feed you as I well know you must be starving by now.”

“ He is so right!” answered Las’Ima “ Famished.”

He led the troupe to a stall with an open patio fenced with ornate metal work and sat us down to order food while we happily discussed the days’ activities and what the market might have to offer.

Across the slim paved road sat a native Martian in a wrapped reddish turban tunic that was sand covered and worn. His eyes were deeply etched and volcanic blue. He watched as they spoke and ate their breakfast and carefully he noticed the knife upon Sophias’ leg with interest. He slowly got up and faded into the noisy crowd of an ancient market of all manner of beings, and things to buy under woven tarps of multicolours.

Dean did not sleep for much longer but did enjoy the solitude. He got up slowly and made tea before striking a match to light incense at the alter in the room upon which was a wooden statue of a Buddha of ancient Marduk. He sat upon an ornately embroidered pillow and began a breathing mediation. He hadn’t gotten far when a voice nearly made him jump out of his skin.

“ How about some tea for an old friend?’

Namir stood there in long robes and carved staff. His amused face showed how funny he thought it was that Dean had nearly jumped straight up three foot in the air, aghast.

“ Namir! What the hell?? Does nobody respect the sanctity of ones home? What are you doing here?” he forced exasperated.

“ Well that’s what happens when you become famous Dean. Get used to it. Now your life will always be scrutinized, interrupted and watched, as they say...” He said the word “watched” with a certain flair that made Dean stop with his exasperation and take heed. He rarely spoke without meaning.

“ Oh?”, said Dean,” I see. I have some tea in the kitchen, go ahead and help yourself then.”

Shortly Namir returned with a steaming cup of green tea and they both sat before the alter doing a series of breathing and syllables meant to awaken the chakras. When this was over, they faced each other, Namir in a chair and Dean in half-lotus on the floor. Namir took a deep breath and raised his staff, as he blew out the air a whistling sound came out and at the same time a dark blue dome of lightweave covered over them.

Dean began;

“ This weave is secure?”

Namir nodded. “ We believe so”

“What have you come to tell me?”

“ There are locals here who come from an ancient line that are asking about you ….”

“ Oh?”

“ and Sophia.”

Dean frowned.

“ Do you know what line, where they come from?”

“ My sources suspect it is the Arabellan Hasshin- a tribe of assassins and “ Hidden Ones” who do not come out to public places very often. They have not been seen openly in these parts for a hundred years or so. Now they come asking questions about you two. I do not like the sound of it.” Namir stroked his greying beard.

Dean nodded, also thoughtful.

’ I recall Dragon masters telling me about the ancient brotherhood. That they had been around for centuries...that they had a rigorous training, that they were used by the High Councils and various Royal Regimes throughout the past centuries with no small amount of success. They always get their mark. I also recall Brother Francisco telling me they had a high regard for spiritual practices as well and some followed a doctrine of sorts. I have heard of a great cavern that was once filled with thousands of “ Nakkii” worshippers. Do we know where their lair is in this area?” Dean asked.

“ No. That location is not known to us yet, however I suggest you tell Sophi about it and be on your guard. But,” he added looking down at Dean, “ I would not tell the rest of the crew yet, if I were you. We do not know if their intentions are harmful. Their kind and ours had a falling out roughly 100 years ago, the quarrel being over certain books that were in their possession that the “Overlords” wanted. They refused to give them up and a civil war ensued. A stalemate was drawn as there was no way to win a war of the people who are from this land and they withdrew to their mountain fortress- the Arabellan.”

“ I see, Master Namir.” came Deans reply.

“ You know, you do not need to keep calling me Master anymore Dean-Na. After the Awakening Reckoning that you and Sophia and the others pulled off, the High Council is about to name you both saints, so certainly you are a M

Master unto your own right. And good on you I say!”

“ Yes I suppose,” came his retort, “ but I think it will be some time before I am used to the idea. It all happened so fast.”

“ Yes, Dean, life usually does.” answered the revered Dragon Master of the Ages, True and Original Architect of the Matrix Time Mandela and Chief of King Trithons’ Protector Dragon Knights. “ It usually does.”

With that he took down the protective barrier that surrounded them and they went about making small talk about going down to the famous Martian baths later together.

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Hope Is At My Side

“ Know Thyself- God is Love ,God is Fear.”

Book of Nakkis

Ha Im Ma Yad Ya Wah

“ The People from His hand.”

Nanna Orrine waited until the first stars were setting in the sky and the bloom of the sunset had begun to fade. This was the third day of the telling of the story, but she was not yet tired- not yet, although inside she felt a yearning for the long sleep of death, to rest until her spirit would be called upon again, but she put that feeling aside. Now was not the time for that. The children needed to be educated. The ceremony of it had become a beacon of light and understanding among the few who had survived and escaped and would remain with her people for many generations after she had gone. She wanted to make sure of that.

She cleared her throat and Melony brought her clear fresh water from the stream which she gratefully accepted and drank feeling the cool water and its magical powers both lift her spirits and remove an impingement on her throat. She began:

“ After Sophia and Dean- Na had found each other and broken through the Matrix membrane escaping with the 144 into the Real World, they lost contact with the Matrix they had come from. They no longer had a place to dial into or receive information. It was as though that Matrix realm had gone dark and no word was heard from it for some time. The Dragons within could not get out and the Dragons without could not get in and even her guides Ismeel and Orkon said they could only see a dark orb around the place that was once known as “ Earth”.

The ancient Atlanteans came out of hiding and joined the Council of Marduk as consultants and Council members. They sent ships out to parts of the galaxy to find and identify any further Matrixes which they had learned about from the Draco prisoners and what Albastak and Las’Ima had gleaned from their minds.

The Psyche- hoods proved to be working in every system but they had still not been able to locate and take down at least one Draco outpost within the asteroid belt beyond Saturnsma ( Kelper). An armada of ships had been sent out and only one had returned at the time of the Council meeting on Marduk which brought the old Atlanteans with the Seekerships envoys together at Damascus. This is where they learned about “The Lost Ones”. And this is where they learned that ancient peoples know things no one else knows...”

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The Danger in Dinner

“The course lays before thee, and the menial mind repels, the effort too strong, the reward too little..and yet, in the course of thy awakening Soul, the journey of the vows begats its own sacrifices and rewards, so take up the Staff my brethren and be of the survivour Sentients of The Wars of Knowledge”

ShaYunHa La Shalom

" Her teeth for a peace offering”

Book Of Nakkiis

They ran into Norma on the way back to our staterooms. Sophi was surprised how well she had handled the transition, but then again she was one of the few who had all her children and husband with her still. For most of the others, that was a luxury and a point of contention to try as hard as we could so they could be reunited with their families. She and her eldest one Gaia -such a beautiful young lady, were on their way to the market and one could see the wonder in her young eyes as we said hello. Sophi asked how she was fairing;

“I am doing ok. Things are good but strange you know?” she nodded.” BUT I am told they sell something here that amazingly looks and smells and better yet tastes of coffee! So we are off to explore!”

“Have fun you guys! Buy one of those Martain silk scarves- they are super warm !” Sophi suggested warmly.

As participants in the Matrix Wars we had been given certain status with the new Regime and had funds which were allotted to each survivour, by gold stores which had been put away at the time of the last Reckoning by the Council of Marduk and Surviving Royalists- not everything was confiscated by the Dracos. We had all benefited from that.

She and Gari went off happily to the marketplace and I and Cal to our rooms, with packages in our hands.

Sophi found Dean strapping on his swords to his back, the black and white samurais.

“ Oh there you are.” he said, “ I was just going to look for you.”

He was wearing his cotton Kata pants and shirt. That meant he wanted to work out – sword practice .

She sensed something irritating him and could see he was going to calmly wait until she got ready So she said.

“ I will be ready in a bit.”

Putting the packages down, in one a sweet soft cotton dress which had a pant and throng with it she intended to wear this afternoon. So much for small talk she thought.

He just nodded and waited for me.

They left shortly thereafter on our way to the gym. This ships equipment sported weapons from all over the galaxy and some that were not like anything she had ever seen. They brought our own although Sophi was using a practice sword for this that was not quite sharp.

As he had taught her, they stood within a series of rings, back to back. They both closed their eyes. Even though not quite touching, he had shown her how to test- feel the microfibres of the bioenergy in a person which got all tense when they were about to attack. She waited. He attacked first with a grab toward her left arm, trying to throw her off balance, but she sensed it and moved away, drawing sword from sheath on her back with a ring that vibrated around the room. He did not draw his, to her surprise but crouched low as they circled each other. She swung with sword in an arc and lunged. Too slow- he nipped away but caught her rather hard on the wrist which almost made her drop it. She looked at him surprised but swung down and under, hoping to catch him in an upper cut. He deflected it with calm steel; which he had now drawn. His manner was so calculating, his every strike nearly knocking her off balance. He parried, She feigned and cut, he stroked down, she lunged, he deflected. She was really running out of breath. Usually he allowed some quarter, but not today. The intensity of his eyes and the force of his blows left her on my knees breathless, his sword to my neck.

“ Jesus frigging Christ Dean! What the hell are you doing? “ she asked breathless

“ You could have had me in one move” he said

“ I know. But this is coming from something deeper.” She held her hand out to him and he gave it helping her up.

“What is going on Dean-na?”

At the mention of his old name he stopped and gave a nod.

“ Not here.” he said.

" Again. Eyes closed. Feel the room”

He walked around her wiating for her to relax just enough. He stepped out and sliced down in a whilrwind to her head. Her eyes flew open and blocked the strike just in time. That was enough for her.Her eyes showed the hurt ofexpected unfamilair agression.

" Shower?” he asked as he softened when he saw that.

She nodded and we went to wash up and change. Her wrist was going to have a bruise the next day and she felt fairly battered up. He had barely been touched. He had been fighting as though he were really fighting a serious foe and that concerned me.

When they left the gym, went back to their room and he fetched some blue glasses into which he poured some linquina juice- a Martian favourite which favoured as a pick me up.

“ Ok lovey, are you going to tell me now what is bothering you?” she asked sinking into the rough silk cushions of the couch

He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair which he only did when worried about something and she knew it was big. he sat up more.

“ Namir was here this morning.”

“ Oh?”

“There seems to be some ancient form of brotherhood akin to the Hashassin of the Earth you know. They...have been asking questions about you. They have made it clear your whereabouts are to be known to them...which means they already know where you are. And we do not know why exactly but...”

“But?”

“Well they are assassins, so it may be they have been contracted to kill you. That was why I was so hard on you earlier. We were probably being watched at the gym. I wanted them to know it will not be easy and that they would be dealing with a Master of Arms should they try.”

She raised eyebrows.

“Right. Just what I need. Just what we need.” I quipped.

I rolled my eyes.

“Well there is not a lot else we can do but keep our eyes peeled for strange things...mmmhh” I pondered.

“ Mmmmhh what?” Dean asked.

“I saw a older Martian man in a strange turban this morning while at breakfast. He was watching me with some interest. I did not think much of it at the time, but I did see his eyes notice my leg belt knife. It may be nothing . But I think we should let the others know.”

“No. not yet.” he answered.

“Why?”

“Because if we do that- if anyone who is a server here is one of them they will know we are on to them.”

I nodded in agreement.

“You are right.”

“ Will Namir be at the Council Meeting?”

“Yes, he should be.”

“ Ok well, let us get ready for that then love, shall we. One thing at a time, my dear Mom used to say.” I hugged him and went to find my Council clothes,her eyes beginning to water.

She missed her mom at the strangest of times. The tears fell as she recalled...

She had died a couple years ago. Not long after dad, who had passed away the year before. How she missed them both. It had been Mom who had helped her get the funds together for that trip to the UK and had insisted sher go- ‘Go see some of our relatives’ she’d said. So sad she had died not long after. It was for her and dad that she had wanted to write a book of our ancestors. That reality felt like lifetimes away now and she wiped away the tears -there were things she had to. Things to be done, assassins to kill- eh what?

They were ready shortly and left together holding hands, and armed- both of them.

Arriving at the cuncil meeting among well wishers to Commander Luke and Las’Ima who was becoming quite a celebrity, especially among the “Hidden Brothers’- the old Atlanteans who had been MIA the last 10,000 years whom had just found their way back into circulation at long last.

Neither Dean nor Sophi really knew them although we had met the few who were crew on the “ Lost Ancient”. There was a couple whom she had been introduced to – Grok and Abrath whom she felt very weird around, but that was about it. She saw them at the other end of the long large room, talking privately, but when her eyes took them in, Grok glanced up and noted that- she wondered why. They made our way to a table with refreshments and poured some lemonaid. Dean-na saw Trithon and Calliopea enter and waved to them who waved back. There were many of our company there

The Embassy of the Council of Marduk was both ornate and simplistic. The dark, almost purple wood of the floor boards shone, as well as intricate carvings inlaid into the door of the like one would have found in ancient Chinese temples, of dragons and clouds and mountains. The chairs were high and plush, the table a golden wood with veins of what looked like inlaid crystal that resembled a large tree. The lighting was soft, music drifted in from anmother room. There were several Hidden Brothers milling around Las’Ima and Commander Luke and Sophi saw Namir out of the corner of her eye talking to what looked like a werewolf of sorts.

Sophi nearly spit her drink out when she saw them. Dean-na was startled and when she looked over to Namir he glanced and then gave her a-not -to be worried- smile and headed me over there, much to my nervousness.

Namir was talking as we within earshot.

“...We shall just have to bring it up then..”

He then noticed them and broke into a smile.

“ Sophi, my dear!” they hugged and smiled happily- he always made her happy to see him.

“This is the young lady I was telling you about.” he said matter- of- factly to the Werewolf man, who despite his furry face was dressed quite elegantly in a ships’ Command uniform jacket and sash which she had seen before on other military men throughout Damascus and other places.

He bent his large head down, his eyes lowered,his right arm came before his stomache and his right leg swept the floor in front of her. A werewolf greeting she imagined. Both Dean and Namir noticed this with raised eyebrows but they said nothing. She made a mental note to ask about it later.

“ Sophi-Sola The Awakener, I greet you. I am called Torath. You may make tryst with me. I am always your friend and serve the Light Pendium.”

“I, I thank-you Torath. It is good to hear. I am always your friend as well” she found herself curtsying somewhat flustered.

Just then the gong rang and they were all called to order.

Thankfully the name tags on the long table displayed several languages of names and they found theirs quickly and sat beside one another in a group. The session began promptly.

High Elder Camoden,High Elder of Dragon Marduk Council began after the flow of chatter stopped. He in his yellow flowing robes all the old Dragons seemed to like, cleared his throat ;

“ Welcome welcome all who sit at this dignitary table on this auspicious day! The returning of our Lost Ancient brethren has finally come to pass by the Lords of Antiquity and we celebrate their return with joyous and righteous words. Today we welcome to this table those of our kind, Jakir, the Blue ( nephew of Namir) and Formina , the White -formerly of King Trithons’ regime- a mated pair, Allice- the Brown( a strong large Brown Woman-dragon raised up her arms), Cortul- the Red ( a smaller Man-dragon in old Roman style dress with very thick arms and red hair raised his arm) and shapshift into his drgon form momentarily to much applause, Shuniki- the Yellow ( a thin Man-dragon who looked all the world like a Shaolin monk raised one arm calmly) Orreili- the Orange ( a smaller Woman-Dragon who shimmered around the edges in a flowing gorgeous orange gown raised her hand delicately) and Tamnir-the Purple ( a bold Man-Dragon with a dazzling tunic of purple studded with what looked like diamonds who raised a fantastic looking bejewelled sword into the air)-” all to the applause of the crowded table.

“Now we have several Atlanteans to introduce to the Youngsters among us; Lamcome- High Councilor of Lomas ( he rasied a hand), Tubur( a tall somber looking warror who was bare chested with crossed swords at his back), Histitus( a pudgy round fellow with bright red cheeks and eyes), Kalun( clearly a warrior- he carried an ancient scythe at his waist), Jacobus ( bespectacled and balding hair -he had to be an archivist if he was anything), Lomitca( a young vibrant warrioress with golden hair and a short sword at her back) and Fairaway( a tall serene woman with the ancient white eyes of a seer) all of the High Council of Lomas ( each of whom raised a hand).” Applause went ’round the table enthusiastically.

“ We all understand that congratulations are in order for the happy couple Las’Ima- revered seer of old Atlantis and Commander Thomas Luke of the “ Lost Ancient” Interstellar ship and from the planet Lomas as they are expecting their first child- and as we understand -the first of their race in 10,000 turns!!”

Everyone cheered and Sophi got a moment of softness and touched Deans hand, which he then covered with his and smiled warmly.

“ We now bring your attention to Lieutenant Torath of the ship Euralias and his report of the findings of the armada sent out to retrieve other Matrix captives. Lieutenant?”

Camoden sat down and Torath stood up.

“ Yes High Councillor Camoden, well after several sweeps in the northern parsect of the Sol-Orion systems grid and on the outer rim we had no signs of any anomalies energetically, however...we did come across a signal which was a mayday call from a recording that called itself “Matrix 519” as we made the solar sytem coming in and it sounded like a womans voice calling for help. We are not sure as we have not been able to retrieve the signal again- yet- faint though it was to begin with. I was instructed by my Commander Shayleen Jedicii to ask for assistance and volunteers to search out this Matrix 519. My commander sends her regrets to not be attending the meeting as she has other business to attend onboard, she will be able to attend the dinner later.” He was fluent and proactive.

“ Is that all Torath?” asked Camoden.

Torath nodded” Yes Sir.” He sat down.

Camoden contined, “Well? Are there any volunteers willing to go?”

Grok stood up, an unsurprised Abrath standing quickly his side.

“We will go.;” said Grok assuredly

“ And I.” said Shunikii

“ And I” said Tamnir

“ And I “ said Lomitca

“And I” said Kalun

and then a silence...then Cortual stood asking;

“ Is this woman whom we seek one of the Seven?”

Torath looked at him with piercing blue eyes

“We think it may be so.” came the answer

“ Then too I will go.” and he slammed his large fist on the table.

The rest of the meeting went on as usual after the elders calmed down at the show of strength. She noticed looks her way that seemed inquisitive and yet unnerving, including one from Grok. She gulped down her lemonade wishing it was stronger.

Afterwards they invited a few back to their stateroom which was fairly large. Trithon and Cal, Namir, Jakir and Formina walked the long way back to our room talking. Torath had been invited but had other business to attend to. Namir and Jakir were clearly family as they looked a fair bit alike, tall, longish hair and beards, large animated blue eyes in blue and dressed as ancient Celts in forest green touched with gold at the hem respectively ,each armed with a staff of excellent carved wood- they always seemed to have some sort of scholarly debate going on, and did so enthusiastically. Today it was about a book by the human Robert Graves called ‘The White Goddess’.

Jakir was commenting” I am quite sure the stanza was referring to the lady Cordelia who leads the ceremonial opening of the door to the underworld ”

“There are several references to the white swan as being the bird which leads the procession to the door, which I believe is also be relating to white dove of Sophia..“Namir countered

Dean-na and Sophi walked hand in hand as they sped past them to open the door for their animated guests both of them smiling at this.

Daddy Trithon went straight for the liquor cabinet which Sophi told them to help themselves to and went to change yet again. She asked Cal to pour some wine and come help with her hair which had gotten quite long now. Before she went into the closet Dean pulled her to him and they kissed, it was sweet. She sighed when they parted.

" I know” he said. He then asked her what she was wearing so he could mach. That was the first time he had done that and a small part of her was secretly pleased and she rewarded him with her brightest smile. She chose the sandy colored sleeveless dress( with shawl) with a long slit. He chose sandy coloured raw silk pant suit with beige light silk shirt. He looked dashing.

" You look beautiful.” he said

“You too.” she said back.

They were about to kiss again when Cal knocked at the door.

" Open up you two! Get a room- oh this is your room.” she called laughing

She opened the door warmly and Dean left the girls to do girly things.

The conversation was still jovial when they got back, both ladies in swept up hairlooking lovely. Then they all set off to the dining hall at the far end of the station house.

They were announced as The Lady Sophia, Daughter of King Trithon of Atlantis and Escort Esquire Dean-Na, Lord Heir of the Swysteen. She practically giggled with delight, obviously Daddy Trithon and Sheena, Dean-Nas’ mother had something to do with that. Speaking of which, there she was in a glorious sunset pink and orange dress.

“Mother!” Dean-Na said,” What a nice surprise! I didn’t know you were coming. You should have messaged me.”

Sheena smiled warmly.

" I wanted to surprise you.”

She wrinkled her nose at Sophi in her funny motherly way and touched her arm,

" Lovely to see you dear. Any plans to making me a Gramma yet?”

She beamed and Sophi helplessly shrugged.

“None so far Sheena. We will let you know as soon as we do. How goes it here on Marduk since you’ve come?”

They made their way to the refreshment table at the sides of the enormous splendid hall which was decorated with white roses and purple lilacs- the scent was marvellous, making small talk. The magnificent table of polished dark wood (she thought mahogany- but then where would they get it from? Marduk was not known for many trees..) was 40 meters long if it was an inch and decorated with four large flower arrangements with the same florals as the arches and columns. It was set with what looked to her as silver cutlery, with blue crystal glasses. The place settings were too numerous to count, Somewhere off the room, through an open door, she heard some delightful music being played on instruments she did not recognize, but recalled the theme from earlier.

Dean spotted Torath and made his excuses. He almost always made his way to the men in parties of this ilk and stayed far away from the various ladies who often came ’round seeking to ask him questions, especially those of his species, for it was known that Sohi and he had not actually tied the knot yet and they were still considered single- hence the announcer could only call him her escort.

It pissed her off. She would never have let on but it irked her that Namir, Daddy Trithon, Las’Ima and the rest of the High Lomas Concil had strictly forbidden it until they had freed the Matrix captives- because they said- that there may still be some of the Seven still trapped which meant that, according to the prophecy, kindly donated by the Draco Albastak, Las ’Ima and two other genetically recognized Seers, that the lasting peace which was supposed to envelope the remaining galaxies from our Sol System to the core of the Milky Way way could only happen when the Seven Star Sisters came together as ONE Sentient. That meant she had to wait until they all showed up in one place-only then could she claim the throne of ancient Atlantis as Heir Appointed- “The Sisters” had to be whole. Daddy Trithon was serious- he approved of the marriage, but it had to be done within the confines of tradition in order to be recognized. She was learning to accept it.

Sophi knew there were five others besides herself that had been found. She was at this point not allowed to see or speak to them but they knew of each other and we were all free and that meant a great deal. The Light Pendium had sent her a Tryst Light badge through the orb messengers when the last one had been located on a Planet called Sorba in the Cygnus Nebula. It was starting to come together these past months since they had escaped one year ago. She had to agree the future looked bright, but somehow she was still waiting for the shoe to drop.

Sophi made small talk with the ladies of the cities’ elite and even some Royalty from Anndromeda was there in their many folds of sheer, their insect eyes deploring too much light. Trithon and Cal had mingled with the Old Ones from Lomas and she saw the conversation was becoming animated as was wont it was when Daddy Trithon had a few in him. She went over to save Cal from the worst part of the joke when...suddenly Albastak appeared before her.

Her large red eyes were startling as she peered deeply into my brown ones, which fitted my auburn hair. When she spoke Sophi felt a curious tingling at the back of her head.

" Sophia of Earth ,as you know I am Albastak of the Draco...( she searched the ceiling for a moment) Sister of the Star People Sophia, Pure One, I would ask of you a question. Will you answer me?”

She heard a high pitched ringing in her ears and could only swallow and nod.

" Now that I had betrayed my people,...what will become of me?”

She could not have even spit if she tried, she felt glued to the floor and a falling sensation took over...and yet something lifted her up. A light garment of wings came over her shoulders and her eyes became opaque as she spoke.

" You have not betrayed your people Albastak of the Draco. This ordeal has been a part of the Great Makers’ plan for you. You shall become a Prophetess of your people and complete the Holy Book Of The Nakkiis which all of your kind shall revere for countless generations and help bring peace to the Galaxy which has never been known before!”

The voice came out like manifold light and as it was told to her later, She had actually levitated a few inches when the words came pouring out - quite without her conscious knowledge.

Sophi came to with Dean-Na at my side. She thought she would have tripped over the floor had he not caught her and manoeuvred her to their seating at the table which thankfully the dinner bell had just rung and the congregation found their seats too.

Dean-na gave Namir a fierce look, which was returned with a disconcerted frown. Sophi just sat there dizzy and needing water.

The first course came and went. She tried to make small talk to the lovley Martian woman on her left who was an engineer,but could hardly concentrate on what she was telling Sophi about a beam extender she had invented. Her head was pounding and she needed to get out of there soon.

As the second course came out a porter came to offer some white wine which she nodded to, thinking it less heady that the red. He had barely poured the glass and she was reaching for it when the glass exploded in front of her with a Swarisa knife sticking out of the table before her. Sophi heard screaming and felt something dripping off her face. Then she did faint.

Sophi came to on a large couch with large pillows at my head. Namir held one hand and Dean was at my head with a cool cloth. She moaned. Her head pounded just to open the eyes. She tired to sit up but found it impossible..

“She is coming around now!” Namir announced to several onlookers, who came closer to see how she was faring. Sophi saw the kind eyes of Trithon, others and Las’Ima who made her way through the small crowd and knelt beside the couch.

She looked deep into her hazy eyes which could not focus for a few minutes and declared;

“She has been poisoned, but only slightly. She will recover soon.”

The crowd gave a sigh of relief and the Base Commanders Wife- Joona, a dear kind Blue offered to call their medical wing to allow me to stay for observation in their royal suite, to which was declined. She just wanted to be in Dean- nas’ arms and nothing else. Sophi looked at him with my ′ will you please just get me out of here?′ look and he asked for an escort and an air- panel car.

" Are you ok honey?” asked Trithon worried and Sheena was right behind him wringing her hands.

" I think so “T” I just need some rest.” she answered weakly.

“And the antidote! ” declared Namir loudly ” We shall find out the poison and acquire the antidote forthwith!” He and Jakir and Formina set off but not before he had tenderly kissed her forehead and they had solemnly bowed with right hand to breast to her.

Dean said to Trithon and Sheena;

" You’d better come too. We have some things to discuss.”

They agreed and as the Air-panel car arrived they helped her in as she slunk down beside Dean and Trithon drove.

Why does this shit have to happen to me, she thought? So much for the other shoe dropping.

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