Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp (Tiva Boon Series Book 2) (8 page)

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

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

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

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

“Caedm.”

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

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

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

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

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

“You are not sleeping?”

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

“I am well, and you?”

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

“Yes, me too.”

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

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

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

“My friends were only concerned.”

“For your safety?”

“And yours.”

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

“Agreed.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ruvy?

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

Greetings, Cala.

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

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

The people on your planet weren’t challenging?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“You love her.”

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

“I see.”

“And a best friend.”

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

“Your tree, right?”

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

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

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

“Well, yeah, I guess.”

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

“Why?”

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

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

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

“Once a guardian…”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good morning, Tiva,
Aliri’s thoughts probed.

Greetings, Aliri.

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

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

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

“We are going to be here for a while,” Maar announced. “Hill and I are meeting with the others tomorrow. I don’t know how long it will last, but I want to make sure everyone gets some time off. Hill will send a revised schedule to everyone.”
“You know, things are so gloomy here now, I think a distraction is in order.” Hill turned to Emerala. “We should have a party celebrating your pending wedding.”

“Heck, why don’t we just have the wedding later this week?” Raife said unexpectedly.

“Do you mean it, honey?” she asked.

“You bet I do.”

“Aw,” Aliri cooed then smirked.

“All right, then let’s do it…” Emerala began tapping on her console. “I’ve just booked the VR Chamber, and everything else will take me about three days.”

“Good, good, so we’ll have a wedding at the end of the week.” Hill beamed.

“Sounds fine to me,” Maar stated. “We should be done with our meetings by then, and I know I’ll need a break and something to get my mind off all this...”

“Make sure to get a yummy cake,” Adam added.

“Yeah,” Raife chuckled. “We’ll make sure of it.”

Maar and Hill set out to begin their meetings with the Ambassadors and Captains of the Union. The crew was on shore leave. Many ventured off the ship to the base to shop, meet other friends from ships, and just loiter around in a different atmosphere.

Tiva began her time off sitting under a dull version of Te, in the VR Room trying to meditate. With the help of Emerala and Aliri, she was able to create an adaptation of her home. The coloring was slightly skewed and it didn’t have the same feel, but it was enough to give her a sense of belonging. So many things seemed to be pulling at her. First, Adam and her feelings toward him. She was also concerned about the crew…her friends, and the rising fear surrounding them. The threat of the salvagers was increasing, and their last tussle with them couldn’t be taken lightly.

It was possible their anxiety was creating the odd vibe she was sensing. Thinking calming thoughts and breathing slowly, she allowed herself to relax. As she finished the second cycle of calming breath, her wrist-comm beeped. She sighed and raised it to her mouth.

“Boon, here.”

“Tiva, it’s me.” Aliri’s voice fizzled through the device.

“Greetings, Aliri. Do you wish me to open the doors to the room?”

“Um, no, I want you to get your butt off the ship and meet us at Krikkie’s restaurant.”

“I am in the midst of something.”

“Hill thought you might say that, so it’s a formal request from the captain.” Aliri chuckled.

“Very well, I am on my way.”

“You have a bit of time. Dress casual, no uniform. I’ve added some credits to your stash in case you want to buy another outfit, it’d be a good idea.”

“Thank you, my friend.” Tiva smiled and rose from the ground.

“See you soon.”

Tiva entered the restaurant wearing the newly purchased dress. She fiddled with the hem, holding it mid thigh, still thinking it too short. As she glanced around, she noticed that in fact, it was not. The frayed bottom of the outfit flirted on her knees. She lifted the thin strap back above her shoulder and smoothed the soft pink fabric along her left side. At the request of the shopkeeper, she purchased a wrap in case she grew cold. She draped it over her right shoulder and began the search for her crew mates.

Maar’s boisterous laugh caught her attention and she altered her path moving to the back of the establishment. Adam wasn’t paying attention to the conversation and was first to smile at her. He rose from his chair and crossed the distance between them. The others stood up as he left, but she paid them no mind. Her markings pinked as he neared, he certainly had an impact on her even if she wasn’t completely sure where it was leading. One hand went to the hilt of his sword; the other gently took her hand, he leaned down, and kissed it.

“Good evening, Tiva.”

Dipping her head to hide her smile from the others, she replied, “Greetings, Adam.”

He grinned back and straightened then motioned to the others. Approaching the table, the men bowed their heads slightly. Emerala waved and Aliri just beamed.

“That is an amazing dress!” Emerala said, in her equally revealing red dress.

She fidgeted with the wrap in her hand and lowered her free hand to her side, slightly uncomfortable with the attention.

“Yeah, which shop did you get it at?” Aliri asked. Her jade knit top sparkling as she tugged at the sleeve. “Nicer than this old thing.”

Tiva took the only empty chair, between Aliri and Adam. She turned back toward the entrance. “The last shop on the second floor; Jilly’s I believe it was called.”

“Tender!” Maar raised his voice suddenly. “Another round for this fine crew!”

The table erupted in cheers. Tiva tucked a lock of her loose hair behind her ear, and glanced around at the others. Everyone seemed much more relaxed outside the confines of the ship. She met her friends gaze and smiled.

You look fantastic, Tiva,
Aliri offered silently.

Thank you. I was able to purchase it with my own savings. I will return your offering.

Nah, it’s okay. Maybe you’ll find something else you like. Trust me it’s not a problem.

Very well, I appreciate that very much.

Any time, my friend.

The staff of the establishment began catering to the crew, taking orders for food and beverage. Most ordered exotic things she had never heard of, and Tiva tried to find something on the list she believed she could tolerate. Adam leaned toward her, his hand cradling the back of her chair.

“You might like the Titarian chicken. It’s mild and tender,” he offered.

“I will try it…” She met his eyes.

She felt his thumb brush the skin between her shoulder blades. Tensing slightly, she turned away as a server placed a fresh drink before her. For that one weak moment, she did not care what was in the glass and picked it up sipping it down.

That’s a strong drink, you might want to be cautious, Tiva.
Adam’s voice filled her mind. She glanced over at him. Following his eyes, she noticed his hand was on the hilt of Cala, and then understood.

I will, thank you.
She turned back to the others, and listened in as the others talked.

The table was clear of their meal. Mugs, and glasses of wine, juice, something Raife called beer, and other beverages continued to flow. Tiva did not take the chance, and sipped at half a glass of wine. She maintained complete control until Adam touched her shoulder again; it was a soft tap, to get her attention, but it was enough stir her emotions again.

“This wine isn’t strong, have a sip, it’ll calm you.”

“You assume I need to calm for some reason.”

“Heh, all right.” He chugged another beer and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. “Just looking out for ya.”

Another hour passed when suddenly Hill and Maar rose at the same time, “We have another meeting in the morning, an all day event,” Maar grumbled slightly.

“Yes, so we’ll most likely not see you until the blessed event.” Hill raised his glass and glanced at Raife and Emerala. “Until then.” He drank the last drop, and then exited with the captain.

“Yeah, we need to get some sleep too…” Raife said, stifling a yawn.

“Hang on, I’ll go with you guys,” Aliri jumped up. “Have a good night guys.”

Tiva watched the others depart like a quick squall and then turned to Adam. He just laughed. She raised a brow, and shifted in her seat to face him. “You find something amusing?”

“Who, me? Nah, well…sure, I find humor in every situation.”

“I see,” she said and pulled the wrap across the back of her shoulders.

“Aw, why’d you do that?”

“I felt a chill.”

Adam’s wings twitched. “I can keep you warm.”

Her markings pinked. “I do not think it would be appropriate in an eatery, Adam.”

“Well, not what I had in mind, maybe later, but we can head out if you are cold…” He stood up and held out his hand to her. “Let’s walk.”

The quiet promenade loomed before them. Several people were scattered about, the normal throngs of shoppers and loiterers had returned to their loved ones or friends for the evening. Together Tiva and Adam circled the upper ring of the promenade used mostly for walking or looking at the stars. It was warmer, but Tiva carried the wrap keeping it near. Cala wasn’t shielding Adam as much as before, perhaps their contact was the cause because she could sense his gaze on her, then heard him snicker softly.

“Again you find humor?”

“I just wasn’t expecting to see the outline of your weapon through your dress. When you rounded the bend I saw the fabric tug slightly.”

Her hand went to her side half ignoring the fact he was watching her. “I do not go many places unarmed.”

“I don’t go anywhere unarmed.” He shrugged, and paused at a scenic spot. Outside the window was a radiant pulsar. It was far off in the distance, but the pale blue light blinked and sparkled happily at them. His wings unfolded and he moaned slightly stretching the limbs. “Think they’d give us hell if we flew around the promenade?”

She smiled at his unexpected question. “I think they may. Perhaps if the situation was less tense…”

“Yeah,” he frowned and his wings dropped slightly. The soft feathers brushed against her back. “You’re probably right.”

Keeping her attention on the window, she held her breath and nodded. His hand was unexpectedly on the small of her back. He nudged her to continue walking. She stiffened slightly and moved on, waiting for him to remove his hand. Instead, he slid it up her back to her neck and almost teasingly across her shoulders then back to his side. She put some distance between them as she turned the next bend, trying to make it look natural, but he was like a shadow mirroring its master.