Zenith Prophecies

Part I

When the Warriors arrive and the lost one is returned, the last mission will be pieced together.

__________

1

You’re all I have left

Real time

Galcon almost regretted regaining consciousness. The raiders had finally captured him last night, and they’d taken great relish in beating him. He wasn’t surprised. He’d eluded them for… How long had it been? He’d searched the forest for Kynacoba since the beginning of the raider attack on Phantasya, and that seemed an eternity ago. Soon, however, his time might come to an end in this… Where was he?

Lifting his head off the grimy floor, Galcon’s vision blurred. It was dark. Cold. Clammy.

I’m underground, he thought. What’s that smell?

When his eyes focused, he remembered everything.

The raiders had dragged him to a subterranean level of the Phantasyan city’s palace tower and thrown him in a dank, torch-lit prison. Here now, Galcon watched from his cage as raider laborers molded corpses of their fallen comrades into the walls. This prison was also a catacomb, and raider bodies were encased in the walls for as far as the torchlight allowed Galcon to see.

Ky’s killed a lot of them, he thought. Good for her.

A severed arm fell outside Galcon’s cage, not far from his face.

He knew he couldn’t block out the stench of the raiders’ work, but he rolled to lie on his other side. This movement took great effort. He’d grown malnourished while living alone in the forest, and the beating last night didn’t help. Too weak to stand, he inspected himself as he lay on the floor. He was bruised all over. His clothes were tattered and stiff with dirt and dried blood. The raiders had burned some of the corpses before encasing them in the walls, and the sooty smell stuck in his long hair and beard.

The smell overpowered him suddenly, and his body retched as he dry heaved into the floor. He hadn’t eaten anything to vomit in days.

Why don’t they just kill me? he thought. What do they want?

Galcon lay on his side and dropped back into restless sleep.

When at last the raiders dragged him from his cage, Galcon was so glad to be out he hardly cared where they took him. His care returned, however, as they reached the ground level of the tower. He’d been too beaten to notice his surrounds when they brought him in, but now he saw the macabre renovations the raiders had made to the Phantasyan tower. The skylight window above was covered with plaster, and torches now dotted the balconies. The troughs which had once carried water now held burning oil, adding light to the sweaty room.

The raiders carried Galcon across the ground floor, and their path crossed a crowd of chained natives. Someone spit at Galcon. He looked back and saw Pradem, one of the former Phantasyan Elders, glaring from his chains.

The raiders at last stopped in the throne area. Blood painted the back wall, and spears pinned into the wall heads of Phantasyans Galcon recognized. Torches lined the platform, and piles of furs and skins cluttered the floor.

On Elder Quar’s former throne sat the giant raider leader, Pernicious, who appropriately wore his executioner’s hood. Skulls, each cut like bowls and holding questionable contents, sat on the arms of Pernicious’s throne. Galcon felt a chill as he realized the bowls weren’t only ornamental – they were dinner.

Wait, thought Galcon. Pernicious isn’t allowed to kill the Phantasyans because of the deal he made with Vedanleé. They could only kill these people if Vedanleé got her daughter. Since Ky hasn’t come to Vedanleé, who’s killed these Phantasyans?

Galcon looked back at Pradem and the other slaves.

They killed their own people for the raiders, he thought. Pernicious must’ve promised them Vedanleé’s magic in exchange-

Have you made him talk? barked Pernicious.

Galcon tried to remember if he’d been questioned. He hadn’t, as far as he knew.

A raider holding Galcon shoved him. He refuses to give us Kynacoba’s location.

Oh, thought Galcon. That’s what they want.

I don’t know where she is. His voice was hoarse. I haven’t seen here since-

Silence!

A raider helped Galcon obey by swatting his face with the back of a gloved hand, slicing Galcon’s cheekbone. He winced from the fresh pain, but it revived him a bit as well. He shook his head and blinked away the pain.

Pernicious turned to a form lying on a bed of furs. Am I allowed to kill this one? He’s Earthborn, not Phantasyan. Is he under your magic’s protection?

Galcon looked in surprise to see Vedanleé sit up on the furs. He’d assumed the form on the bed to be part of the gruesome décor – maybe she was. Her long, golden hair hung long and scraggly over her chest. The witch was barely clothed, but where she was it was with someone else’s skin.

What’s happened to her? thought Galcon.

Vedanleé lifted her gaze to Pernicious and looked over at his prisoner. Galcon felt a chill as he met eyes with the witch. When Vedanleé recognized him, a puzzled look replaced her expression of resigned loathing. She examined him for a long time, shivering as she did so.

She didn’t know I stayed when the others escaped, thought Galcon. Little good it’s done–

Kill him. Vedanleé looked back to Pernicious. You’re free to do it.

Pernicious needed no further encouragement. He rose from his throne, drew a machete, and stepped forward.

This was it. Even as Galcon struggled against the raiders holding him, he knew there’d be no escape. Pernicious was crazed with bloodlust and would show no mercy. If Galcon was lucky, maybe they wouldn’t eat him.

Goodbye, Ky, he thought.

Pernicious sneered and raised his machete. He swung, and Galcon closed his eyes as he heard the blade slicing through the air.

Nothing happened.

Wincing, Galcon opened his eyes and saw the machete had stopped centimeters from his throat. He looked at the giant. Pernicious was completely frozen, a sneer locked on his face. The raiders holding Galcon were also motionless. Everywhere he looked, people were frozen. Everything seemed to stretch and blur as if a mirage.

Am I hallucinating? he thought. No, I can still feel them holding me.

Galcon pulled himself from the raiders’ grip and sidestepped Pernicious to get away from the deathblow. It was then he noticed Vedanleé, who was whispering repeated chants.

Oh, he thought. She’s using her control of the space dimension’s dark power!

Not knowing what else to do, he stared at the witch. He swayed where he stood, but he managed to remain on his feet.

Finished with her spell, Vedanleé rose from her furs and turned to Galcon. Her expression was blank and lifeless, but she seemed more lucid than he’d expected. He’s right, you know. He can kill you. Since you aren’t a Phantasyan, you’re not under my spell’s protection. He hasn’t been allowed to slay anyone in a very long time, and he’s itching to do it. You are at his nonexistent mercy.

Galcon was sure Pernicious would leap forward at any moment, but the giant remained frozen. Galcon was equally wary of Vedanleé.

How is she doing this? he thought. Why? Is this even real? Have I gone mad?

Galcon felt himself shaking and knew he couldn’t stand much longer. He tried to think straight. Vedanleé, can you kill Pernicious with a spell? Quick, let’s get away before-

No. My arts have made Pernicious invincible. I’d die if I tried to kill him, and he’d live on. If he kills me, he’ll die. Our lives are bound. We hate each other because of it. She shivered. Believe me, there are worse things than death. You were about to be fortunate. A disturbing grin spread across her face, and the insanity Galcon had expected began to show through.

He swallowed. Why are you doing this? What do you want? I can’t get Ky for you.

Her grin disappeared. It was immediately evident this was exactly what Vedanleé was hoping. She hadn’t spared him from death by Pernicious’s machete – she’d only paused to offer Galcon an alternative.

His mind snapped into gear now. Vedanleé, your daughter won’t join you. She won’t. She knows the deal you made with Pernicious, so she’s staying away to protect these people as much as anyone can. Don’t you see the danger you’ve put your daughter in? Ky isn’t protected under your deal with Pernicious any more than I am, is she? You protected Ky if she joined you, but Ky is in danger as long as she’s out there on her own. If the raiders capture her, they’ll kill her just like Pernicious will kill me. They won’t bring her to you. They’ll kill her. They know if they kill Ky, they don’t have to worry about your deal with-

I know! Vedanleé left her furs and took quick steps to stand before him, leaning into him as she begged. That’s why I need you to bring her to me. You think Pernicious hasn’t threatened to kill her if she doesn’t join us? I know my daughter is in danger, but I’m trying to save her. But she won’t come! She won’t listen! He hunts her, and I can’t convince her to join us and save herself! She held up her hands to his face in pleading. But you’re her friend. You could make her see. Bring Loree to me!

No.

I’ll lose her, he thought. But…

Pernicious would be free to kill the Phantasyans. Ky – Loree – doesn’t want that, and I won’t do it. She won’t come to you, Veda.

Vedanleé was so crazy now that she looked honestly hurt by Galcon’s refusal. Her eyes flamed, and she took a step back to scream at him. Then you’re no use! I’ll let Pernicious kill you! She glanced back at the giant with a cringe and muttered, But that would only bring him joy. He would eat you in front of me for the pleasure of watching my stomach turn. I can’t watch any more… But what to do? What to do? She faced Galcon again, now shaking with sobs. Please, you’re all I have left. She’s my daughter!

Galcon looked back at the witch and genuinely felt sorry for her as she continued to wail, all hope gone. But he could not, would not do as she asked.

And I’m going to pass out any minute, he thought. If I collapse before getting through to her…

Veda, I know you love your daughter. Please, let me go. I can save her from this. That’s why I stayed behind when you drove our friends off Phantasya. Let me go so I can take Loree away.

She exploded, tearing what little clothes she had and pacing in short circles between Galcon and the frozen raiders. You all take her from me! You only ever take her away! I hate you! All men are a plague to me!

Veda, Pernicious will gladly let all his raiders die before calling them off the hunt for Loree. He’s invincible and will never stop until he has what he wants. Veda, he’ll never stop!

The witch pulled up in front of Galcon. She continued to sob and glare at him, but the truth of what he was saying seemed to have struck home.

Veda, yours is the only life off limits to Pernicious, and not even you can stop him from getting to Loree. Please, Veda, let her go. Let me go find her.

The woman let out one last sob. After a pause, she wiped her face with a grimy hand and looked around the tower. Dear God, what have I done?

Galcon had nothing to say, but Vedanleé turned her back and walked to the raiders and their giant leader. After a moment, she stepped to position herself where Galcon had stood a moment before, in the path of Pernicious’s swung machete. Her eyes burned against the frozen giant.

Vedanleé looked at Galcon from under the poised blade. Go. Find my daughter. May a curse fall on you if you don’t save her. I swear it will be so.

Before Galcon could respond, Vedanleé resumed chanting.

A second later, everything snapped to life. The raiders found themselves guarding the witch rather than Galcon. Pernicious’s expression changed from a sneer to a wide-eyed look of horror as his blade finished its stroke.

No!

Too late. Pernicious couldn’t stop his momentum, and the machete sliced into Vedanleé’s throat. Her blood spurted onto the giant, and the raiders backed away from the witch in surprise. Vedanleé’s body crumpled to the floor. Pernicious dropped his machete and tottered. Blood began to pour down the front of the giant where his own throat had split open. The giant’s massive bulk fell forward over the body of the witch, as dead as she now that he’d killed her and brought her curse upon himself.

The raiders stood looking at the two bodies as they realized what had happened. One cried out, and raiders from all over the tower ran to the throne area to join the commotion.

Galcon had been standing as if he now were frozen. He took no more time. With more instinct than thought, he stumbled to the tower’s garden-side exit. Throwing his weight against the doors, Galcon managed to slip outside unnoticed.

It was night and raining. The cold rain soaked into his hair and clothes, reviving him enough to run. He descended what rubble was left of the veranda stairs and clumsily ran through the demolished garden. The forest seemed far away, and he was sure pursuing raiders would recapture him before he escaped. But they didn’t, and the sound of the rain was loud enough to aid his flight.

Must get away, he thought. Must run.

Galcon reached the edge of the forest but knew he was by no means safe, so he ran on into the dark woods. The branches overhead swayed in the wind, and rain pelted through the canopy into the already muddy forest floor. This sloppy mess made Galcon’s flight all the more difficult. Flashes of lightning and shadowing rolls of thunder rattled the forest, but there was no sign of danger anywhere along the path.

Galcon’s right foot found a particularly deep puddle, and he stumbled before pulling himself out of the hole. He paused only long enough to listen for pursuers, but his gasping breaths were the only sounds of life as he ran on. Every muscle in his body ached. His legs were spent, and he suspected the rest of him would soon complete the mutiny. He had to stop, and he fell to the ground in exhaustion. There was no point trying to stay dry, so he lay on his back in the leaves and gasped for breath in the rain. He noticed his cheekbone throbbing, most likely bleeding.

I’m in shock, he thought. Did all of that really happen? I-

The bushes rustled.

Galcon lifted his head and held perfectly still. No raiders appeared, but he knew they would come in search of their escaped prisoner. With no strength to run farther, however, Galcon could only slide to sit against a tree. Leaning on the wet bark, he positioned himself to have a clear view of the forest path.

Future time

Kynacoba, Amu, Rave2, and a blind Arctos talk cheerfully at a dining table in a nice home. Amu hits a switch, and a hotplate with food rises from the center of the table. Kynacoba calls down a hall, and a little girl runs into the room, the VCPC buzzing behind her. The toddler climbs into her chair, and the adults pass food around the table.

Trok sits in a rocking chair nearby. He smiles as he watches, but it’s clear he’s nervous about something.

The doorbell rings. Kynacoba’s daughter climbs down from the table and runs to let in whoever’s arrived.

Rave enters, catches the little girl as she jumps into her uncle’s arms, and smiles happily when he sees his own uncle. It’s about time you showed up, Trok.

Arctos laughs and, though blind, faces Trok where he sits in the rocking chair. Yeah. Time’s up, eh, Interceder?

Outside time

For six months, this future window had been my sole companion. Ever since Kynacoba and Galcon had stayed behind on Phantasya and I’d sent the others on their way, I’d been locked in the realm of the space dimension. I wouldn’t be able to exit until this current future window’s fulfillment, until the fulfillment of the Re-Life Prophecy.

The Re-Life

The final battle’s end

will spark life and light.

Peace will illuminate the land

and glow in the Warriors.

Out of an end

will beam a radiant dawn.

Because this prophecy would be fulfilled without my interceding, I wasn’t needed in real time. And, I wasn’t allowed to change anything, not even in past time. It was a comfort to know everything would end happily, but I felt incredibly isolated. And useless.

I floated in the swirling, fiery lights and pulled out a mirror from my coat pocket. Talking to my reflection had become a rather pathetic habit. You’re isolated because you’re supposed to be making your decision, great Interceder. What are you going to do?

This was the choice I’d been left with since Phantasya: When the future of the Re-Life came, I’d be allowed to either reenter time to finish my days as a mortal or else remain outside time to work throughout eternity as the Interceder. Both options held promise; both held drawbacks. I missed my friends, but would it be worth giving up immortality and all that was open to me in this outside realm? I could continue to do good as the Interceder, but would it be worth it if it meant outliving all those in existence whom I loved?

I watched the future window play over again, but no clue was given to me about which way I’d choose.

I have time, I told my reflection. This future will take a few more years, considering the age of Ky’s little girl. I have time to make my decision. All I have is time. I lowered the mirror and looked around at the lights.

Six months. For six months, I’d only been able to watch my friends. I’d worried at first that they’d once again be angry because I’d seemingly abandoned them. But, Arctos had been able to convince them I must have my reasons.

Arctos, I thought with a smile. Whatever the grand purpose’s reasoning, I’m glad Arctos was allowed to see this future of the Re-Life. It’s comforting to know at least one of my friends knows the truth about why I’m away. Actually, they’ve been too busy to worry much about my absence. I can’t really blame them…

In this new world, we’d found the Kota at last.

The settlers of Zenith had traveled through Earth’s Mainland-Asian portal during a time far past that I remembered well. These were our long-lost Kota kin who’d ventured through the portal in their attempt to obey the Signal Prophecy back when I lived on Earth. That was over five hundred years ago, but the truly wonderful thing was – unlike the Ebonites and Phantasyans – the Zenoes still seemed Earthy. The Zenoes were less alien. They didn’t explore their galaxy and settle multiple planets but instead stayed grounded to Zenith. There were no microevolutions like blackened eyes or dwarfed populations. There was neither an overwhelming advancement of technology nor stagnation. The Zenoes thrived in their new home by living as their ancestors might’ve continued to advance on Earth.

The Warriors and their team were as close to home as they’d ever get. No other world had felt quite right. Ebon was too cold, Phantasya too hot, but Zenith was the porridge in the middle.

I sighed into the surrounding lights of my home.

Not much I can do, I thought. I’m sure the Warriors have more work ahead, but what? Considering everything Amu and I’ve discovered about the Magi, something will come of it before the end. I mean, we’ve at last found our Kota people! The Magi must be connected to these Zenoes somehow… But where’s the danger the Magi feared? There’s no danger on Zenith of any magnitude that warrants what the Magi did to Amu. What’s this mission to save our Kota people? Where are the answers?

I scowled into the lights.

I’d been able to view most of Zenith’s history, but gaps in Zenith’s past time were hidden from me. This suggested there was some Magi connection to Zenith, but I still wasn’t allowed to see it. And this made me irritable.

But, I thought, it’s not like I could do anything about it even if I did find the Magi.

At least Amu was still searching for answers. For six months, she’d been looking for hints of the Magi in the Zeno histories, searching for answers.

Some things never change, I thought with a smile.

Feeling twitchy, I floated in the portal lights toward an area where I could check on my friends.

In my Interceder way, I had a feeling Kynacoba and Galcon’s time on Phantasya was nearing its end. Soon, Amu would be able to teleport them to Zenith. I had every reason to have faith in this, and I was glad to see my friends shared this hope. Those on Zenith had worried about Kynacoba and Galcon for six months while trying to adapt to their new home, and I knew this hadn’t been easy. However, Arctos knew of the Re-Life future just as I did. Over the months, he’d used this hidden knowledge as a spring of hope for himself and encouragement for the others. Arctos, Amu, Rave, Evant, Matsuri, and Rave2 weren’t as despairing as they might’ve been. And soon they’d be reunited with Kynacoba and Galcon on Zenith, their new home.

But I still could not join them.

One thing I know, I told my reflection as I frowned into the lights. Whatever comes next, they’ll have to get through it without me. And I don’t think they’re going to coast along, enjoying themselves until the time of the Re-Life’s fulfillment. That’s never been how this works. Something will come. We’re not at the Re-Life yet, and I bet they’ll have to earn it. All I can do is watch.

I once again attempted the hand motion which in days prior would’ve opened a portal into real time. Now, because the grand purpose had other plans, nothing happened. I was meant to stay away.

2

We’re running out of time

Real time

The Sky of Zenith was a glorious capital. It was also very much in the sky. Towers stood in a wide circle, and a pseudo-ground of web-like bridges connected the towers at a height over two hundred stories. This made the Sky rather like a towering table stool. What made it unlike a stool was that the towers continued to rise above bridge level for several stories higher. This gave the Sky exterior borders because the towers formed the outermost rim of the capital. Turning inward from the towers, courtyards lined the circumference around the interior bridges. In the very center of the Sky, a greenhouse garden lay like the spoke in the middle of a bicycle wheel.

The Empress’s palace towers were by far the most elaborate in the Sky. It was here the splendor of Zenith’s high capital was most impressive, as the Empress spared no expense. She was a student of the ancient Kota society of her people, and the oriental décor of the palace was a throwback to that culture. Whether one appreciated the origins of the style or not, the palace was beautiful. Wooden floors were polished, hanging lanterns lit the halls, warm tapestries hung in the chambers, and sparkling statues and other ornate decorations stood in every corner. In the main court at bridge level, tall windows allowed the bright, winter sun to pierce the open room. The sunlight sparkled on the tiled floor, which was crafted out of rough stone from the northern mountains.

At one of these windows, Rave stood in his typical, casual posture. He faced outside, although all he could see was snow and sunshine, and the brightness caused his genetically oversensitive eyes to squint. He didn’t care for the view, but he wanted even less to face the crowd of Zeno nobles mingling in the court behind him. However, Rave’s eyes couldn’t take the sheer whiteness for long, so he looked away to examine a golden fountain.

Rave caught his reflection in the water. He jumped as he mistook himself for Trok, but with a chuckle he inspected his reflection. Because of the winter season, his skin was pale. He hadn’t cut his hanging, brown hair in a while, but it was clean and covered battle scars on his neck. Overall, he looked like one of the Sky nobles. Refined. Proper. Dignified.

When did that happen? he asked his reflection.

When they’d first arrived in the Sky six months ago, the Warriors had found the customary dress of the Sky Zenoes to be uncomfortably elegant. Now, Rave felt at ease in the dark red jacket he wore, and he realized he’d accepted his changed appearance without much notice. It was true Zenith had had a transforming effect on him – Amu had commented just yesterday that he’d finally grown up.

I don’t mind if this place has changed me, he thought. It’s because we feel so at home here. But these nobles…

Rave pasted on a smile and faced the buzzing crowd gathered in the court. Because it was the celebration of New Year’s Day, the palace court was brimming with people who’d come to enjoy the holiday splendor of the palace. Most Zenoes here were nobles from the Sky, but a few were common Zenoes from the Ground. Whether native to the Sky capital or not, all Zenoes while at court conformed to the Empress’s preferred customs and dress. The men wore long jackets with wide-legged pants underneath, and the woman wore sari-like dresses. The clothes all had the same flowing cut, but individual families each had their own distinct coloring. This was the traditional Kota style used for generations, and the Asian flavor was unmistakable. Not all Zenoes were of Asian ethnicity, however.

That guy has Euro ancestry, thought Rave as he looked at passing faces. That woman has as much Northern Continental blood as me. Few here actually carry Asian ancestry. I guess it makes sense. Trok always said the Kota Council chose to live in Southern Asia. They adopted the local culture but originated from all over Earth. They formed into a mixed race, really. We Kota are a diverse bunch… We just look like we all have the same tailor.

Rave sighed and headed across the court. Several Zenoes bowed in greeting, and he managed to smile. Curious little children looked at him in awe – so did many adults, for that matter.

"Rave, we’re over here by the bench," Amu’s mind-voice said in his head.

Changing course, Rave walked around several more clusters of chatty Zenoes before he saw his friends. Amu stood by a frosted window, and Arctos sat on a long bench beside her. From a distance, Rave noted how Zenith had transformed them too. The Collins siblings’ clothes were of a matching turquoise color, which illustrated their family identity. Amu’s flowing, wrap-like sari accented Arctos’s long jacket, but she also wore a black cloak for warmth. Her blond hair had grown long and was twisted up into a neat bun. She was still petite and lovely, and her bare arms under the cloak showed most clearly that she wasn’t the fighting kind of Warrior. Arctos was as tall and muscular as ever, his head shaved clean, and his familiar smile was once again on his face as he waved Rave over to join them.

Rave looked down at his steps as he approached. There had been many times over the past six months when he’d felt a pang of jealousy around Amu and Arctos. They had each other, but his sister was lost. Rave knew they missed Kynacoba, but it had been hardest for him. Still, Rave knew he could depend on their friendship.

Rave sat on the bench beside the biggest Warrior. Grace and peace. This was the formal Zeno greeting.

Arctos bobbed his head. Happy New Year.

Where are Evant and Matsuri? I thought they were sticking around for lunch before heading back to the Ground.

Amu continued to stare out the window at the lessening flurries. Evant said they had work to do. They had to leave early.

Rave snorted. Not likely. They hate all this pomp and wanted to get away as soon as they could. Besides, we all know they’re treated like lesser citizens up here.

Because Evant and Matsuri weren’t Kota, the Sky nobles had never been particularly excited about them. They were treated with tolerable respect for the Warriors’ sakes, but they would never be viewed as equals among the nobles. Perhaps aware of this, the Empress had assigned Evant and the others to prominent positions on the Ground. They’d moved from the Sky a few months ago to be more comfortable among the common Zenoes on the planet’s surface. Officially, they were welcome in the Sky anytime, but they preferred to stay on the Ground.

When Galcon gets here, thought Rave, he’ll be treated the same.

Amu possibly heard these last thoughts as she faced Rave. I thought you should know, I just finished looking in on Galcon.

Has he found any trace of Ky?

She shook her head, squashing Rave’s excitement. No, but Galcon isn’t well, Rave. He was unconscious earlier, but I saw in his memories that he’d escaped from the raiders. I don’t think Galcon will be safe for much longer. She looked uneasy.

Rave knew Amu trusted Galcon to find Kynacoba, as did Arctos and Rave. No, they weren’t worried Galcon wouldn’t or couldn’t find Kynacoba. Instead, now the torturing issue was what to do with Kynacoba once she was rescued.

A loud voice rose above the chatter. May I have your attention, please?

Rave turned with Arctos to face the court. A nobleman named Mingyu was holding a glass at the front of the crowd as if preparing for a toast. Rave had always thought the man’s green-wearing family to be full of themselves. Apparently he wasn’t alone in this critique. Many other nobles in the room also looked reluctant to abandon their conversations for the sake of listening to Mingyu’s speech.

Thank you, Mingyu said when he had the crowd’s attention. I want to say a few words about our excitement for what potentially lies ahead in the New Year.

"Here we go," Amu said in Rave’s mind.

Rave glanced back at her with a shared look of tension.

We all know of the ancient writings dating all the way back to when our ancestors first left Earth, Mingyu began, turning with his drink so everyone could see him. Because of our Kota faith’s insistence on clinging to written texts, through the ages our collective memory has benefited as we’ve kept these historical records. Because of writings the monks have preserved for centuries, we know how significant these current days truly are.

Several nobles knew where he was headed with this and glanced at the Warriors.

We all know the story, said Mingyu, though until the Warriors arrived many thought it a fairytale. Once upon a time- he laughed at his joke -an angel came to our ancestors as they worked to settle this world. He guided the people in many things. The angel told them the correct interpretation of the Virus Prophecy – that the Kota were immune to the DRK virus. He told them the correct interpretation of the Signal Prophecy – that they’d escaped through the portal to be safe from persecution and to start a new world. The angel also told them of newer prophecies given to the Kota remnant on Earth, and these prophecies were the ones concerning the Kota Warriors. Here he motioned to the trio of Earthborns.

Rave offered the crowd a tight smile.

On top of all this, the angel gave the Zeno settlers new prophecies of their own. When the angel stopped coming to Zenith, time ticked on. Many Zeno prophecies were fulfilled over the centuries, and at last only one of these prophecies remains to be fulfilled. Mingyu nodded for emphasis. This one last prophecy is upon us, my friends. We now know it’s no fairytale. It began with the arrival of the Kota Warriors from Earth, and the prophecy’s fulfillment promises our entire world will be united in peace. I know you all share my excitement. At the moment, our empire suffers from political strife and outright terrorism, but the prophecy promises the Warriors will bring peace. Now that they’re here, the prophecy is underway. All we await is the arrival of their Leader. I pray their Leader returns soon, and safely. I have faith this will happen. In this New Year, our world will find peace. We need to be faithful and thankful. And so, I raise my glass to the Warriors. May Heaven bless you.

Nobles with drinks also lifted their glasses and looked the Warriors’ way. May Heaven bless you.

Rave, Amu, and Arctos bowed their heads in thanks.

Mingyu returned to his circle of friends, and the nobles returned to their previous discussions.

And that’s why we’re celebrities, thought Rave. No pressure. And the bigger problem is what the prophecy says about Ky…

Beside him, Arctos whispered, What are we going to do, Rave? We’re running out of time to make up our minds, and the Empress left the final decision up to you.

Shh, Amu said in a loud whisper. She looked at the crowds.

Rave examined them too. These people weren’t supposed to know the Empress’s plans for this prophecy.

Arms crossed under her cloak, Amu shifted on her heels. We still aren’t sure about the prophecy’s wording. It might not be about Ky. Some of the monks read the prophecy differently. Even the Empress acknowledges the interpretation is unclear.

Here we go, sighed Arctos.

Amu had made this pitch before. "We should let them do it to me. Ky’s been through enough. If we agree to this, why can’t it be me? The Empress has no right to force Ky to do this when we aren’t even sure it has to be Ky."

Arctos was ready with his usual comeback. The strictest translation makes the most sense. It means Ky, not you, sis.

Amu wasn’t put off so easily. She turned from the window, the sunlight catching her blond hair and giving her a very fiery edge. I realize it’s been a while, but surely you two haven’t forgotten how horrible Ky’s life has been already. It’s wrong to put her through this. She’s going through hell on Phantasya, and we should give her time to recover. But you want to subject Ky to everything the Empress is suggesting the moment Ky gets here? We could let the Zenoes do it to me instead, and the prophecy could still-

Sis, we know what you think, but if we’re agreeing to this at all, we can’t chance it. We have to follow the exact wording of the prophecy. Besides, the Empress is right; everyone on Zenith knows you already, but Ky will be a stranger. It’s much easier to get people to believe you’re a miracle if they’ve never met you before.

Arctos! Now you’re okay with lying to these people?

The biggest Warrior frowned. "I don’t like it – you know that, Amu. But if we go along with this at all, we have to follow the strictest translation. That means it’s Ky. I can’t explain it, but I know it has to be Ky. It isn’t you, sis."

While Rave was of course worried about his sister, he also knew the deeper concern. Whether it’s meant to be Ky or not, whether we’re lying to these people or not, we’re still being asked to control a prophecy.

Amu and Arctos paused in silent acknowledgement.

Rave sighed and massaged between his eyes. My biggest fear is that the Empress wants to force this prophecy at all. Yes, the prophecy’s fulfillment means peace for this world, but I’m not sure we should push it. Forcing a prophecy into motion, even for the promised result of peace, is a gutsy thing to do.

And do the ends justify the means? agreed Arctos. Even if this prophecy’s fulfillment brings peace, look at all the lies the Empress is concocting to get it. The people would never believe in the prophecy if they knew she was forcing it along, so she’ll lie and pretend it’s all happening naturally. Lying can’t be what the prophecy intends.

Amu sighed. We’ve tried to tell her all that. She’s not listening.

Have our people learned nothing in five hundred years? Rave thought yet again. These Zenoes’ ancestors misinterpreted the Signal Prophecy and flew through the portal for all the wrong reasons, and it took an angel to straighten them out. Why doesn’t the Empress see how serious this is? And she’s putting the decision on me! What if I… My father forced the fulfillment of the Bearers Prophecy. Everything did get fulfilled despite the mess, but look how my father paid for it – yes, his beloved prophecies were fulfilled, but it ruined his life! Now, am I to repeat the mistakes of my father and be praised for it? Fulfilling this prophecy means bringing peace to this entire world, but wasn’t that the same desire that blinded my father’s faith?

This pressure, these taxing questions of controlling fate, might’ve been the true reason for Rave’s maturing over the past six months.

Amu sighed. Where is Trok? He’s the one who has lived through all of these prophecies. He’d know what to do.

Arctos squirmed on the bench. I’m sure he’d be here if he could.

Rave met eyes with Amu before looking at Arctos, who stared at the tiled floor. Rave again suspected Arctos was hiding something. He’d gotten this feeling a few times, especially whenever one of them mentioned Trok. Also, for reasons Arctos wouldn’t explain to either Amu or Rave, he’d asked Amu to sever their mind link. Amu hadn’t liked it, but she’d done as Arctos requested. Rave knew Amu was even more curious about it than he was, but they respected Arctos’s wish to let it drop. But was Arctos hiding something?

Arctos lifted his head and returned to their original subject. Whatever we do about this prophecy, we’ll need to have faith. Despite our collective knowledge of prophetic do’s and don’ts, there’s no way to be one hundred percent certain we’re doing the right thing. We have to hope everything works out. And I think… I have a feeling everything will be okay in the end. He looked at Rave. Many of the old prophecies were forced into fulfillment too, but they still worked out. Maybe the prophecies are like Trok’s futures – they’ll happen no matter what, even if we take the wrong path to get there.

But, said Rave, does that excuse us if we take the wrong path?

Amu fiddled with the edge of her cloak. Ky would say we need to do what we think is right and trust we’ll be forgiven if we’re wrong.

Arctos agreed. So what’s right? We need to decide before Ky gets here, and we’re running out of time.

Rave felt sick.

I need more time, he thought. But would there ever be enough time to make this decision? The past six months have seemed like an eternity. And I feel more and more certain of the decision I have to make.

Finally, he said, Listen. Because Trok raised me to believe my life revolves around prophetic missions, you both know how serious I take this. That said… He let out a huff. I don’t think we have a choice. I know we all hate the Empress’s plan, but if we refused to go along with it, I think she’ll do it anyway. She’s determined to fulfill this prophecy. If we oppose her, that could cause problems. If we cooperate, at least we can watch out for Ky.

Amu frowned. "You really think the Empress would go ahead without our consent? She’s stubborn and insistent about this prophecy, but… You think she’d do that? She’s not a bad person."

No, Rave agreed.

He had to admit he liked the Empress, despite all their disagreements. She wanted peace for her people. She was just a little pigheaded about how to achieve her goals.

Rave’s right, sis, said Arctos. I think going along with the Empress’s plans is the only way we can salvage any good out of this situation. We’ll do all we can, trusting that the rest will be okay. That’s the point of ‘let whatever happens happen,’ right? He smiled at them. Someone had to say it.

Rave also smiled.

With a noticeable pout, Amu twirled her cloak and came to sit between them on the bench. Arctos put his arm around her shoulders.

Rave took a deep breath for composure. Okay. So we’re all in agreement?

Yes.

Yes.

They were silent again for a moment, adjusting to this major shift in gears. At least it was a relief to have made a decision at all.

From where Rave sat on the bench beside his friends, he looked at the crowds of Zenoes still mingling about the court. None of these knew the Empress’s plan. Only a few select Zenoes had that privilege and charge.

Ugh, thought Rave. Why does the Empress think we understand prophecies better than she does? All of these Sky Zenoes are educated in the Kota far better than we are. There are monks who’ve dedicated their entire lives to interpreting the ancient texts. It’s been forever since we’ve had to deal with prophecies at all – since Earth, really, and interpreting the prophecies was always Trok’s job. Besides, the Warriors Prophecy and the Mark Prophecy on Earth were pretty straightforward – fight evil. Now this one last Zeno prophecy asks us to unite our people and lead them to peace. How? Sand. We have to get this right. Everything up to this point would be meaningless if we now ruined it for our own people.

Arctos broke the lengthy silence. "We’re in agreement, but what will Ky think? She’ll be pissed as hell initially."

An old lump of fear for his sister rose in Rave’s throat. Amu was right about Kynacoba going through plenty already. Now, they were doing this to her.

Rave sighed. Let’s hope she can forgive us.

I’m sure she will, said Amu with experienced certainty.

Rave scanned the court to make sure no one had heard their discussion. At last, he rose and straightened his jacket. Okay. I’ll go inform the Empress of our decision. I’m sure she’ll be thrilled.

3

At least she’s safe

When Galcon awoke, he felt worlds better, though he was covered in mud, clothes torn, hair tangled, and everywhere sore. He sat up from his bed of leaves and saw it was midmorning. The rain had stopped, and the trees were releasing their final drips as sunlight poured through the canopy.

A broken stick lay on the ground near his feet. This wasn’t unusual, but the end of the stick was carved to a point. Crouching on the ground, Galcon stooped to pick it up for closer inspection. Dried blood was caked to the point. With increasing interest, Galcon brushed aside his wet, hanging hair and inspected the ground. A clear boot print lay in the fresh mud. The trail died after a few steps, confirming his suspicions – Kynacoba had been here and dematerialized.

Galcon rose and headed in the direction the few prints led. There was no way to tell which direction she’d gone, but he’d followed Kynacoba on much lesser clues before. He threw aside wet branches and made his way as quickly as any starving man could. Chances were good she was still in the area.

I wish I had her knack for slipping through the underbrush undetected, he thought. I don’t have time to be cautious of raiders. If Ky was close, I have to get moving. I might not get another opportunity.

Galcon bumped against a tree as he felt another presence in his mind. Not now, Amu! I’ve found something! Where were you last night when I could’ve used you?

"I’m sorry, but listen. We’re ready now when you bring Ky here."

Galcon headed farther into the brush. Oh, good. Now you’re ready? I’ve been taking my time-

"Please be quiet. It’s taking all my concentration to hold the link with you. What I mean is, now we’re ready because we’ve agreed to let the Empress do as she wishes. Rave just returned a minute ago from telling her. It’s all being finalized as we speak."

Galcon sighed, knowing from previous discussions what this meant.

"I saw in your memory all that happened last night," said Amu with more excitement. I think everything is coming together now because it’s finally time to get you out of there. Based on this trail you’re following, I think she must be somewhere close. Hurry, Galcon!

I’m trying.

Before Amu had a chance to reply, Galcon stepped into a clearing. He revolved around in confusion, never before seeing such a break in the otherwise dense forest. This wasn’t the familiar clearing, the Guardian Meet where the Elders used to hold discourses. Galcon had no idea where he was now.

Taking a step forward into the clearing, his legs were pulled out from under him, and a rope around his ankles dragged him forward and up along a tree. His exposed skin scraped against the rough bark on the way up, and finally he stopped, swinging upside-down by his ankles. He lurched from side to side, trying to get free. No luck.

Good job. Now what?

He tried to reach his feet but was too weak to pull himself up. Don’t suppose you could teleport me down?

"I don’t know if I could control it that precisely, no."

Galcon heard a twig snap. He held still. When nothing else happened, he groaned and continued his struggle. Too exhausted, he had to give up.

Amu, what can I-

The brush ahead rustled. Three raiders enter the clearing. Frantic, Galcon squirmed against the rope, but the knots held. The raiders laughed, and Galcon watched helplessly as one of the men pulled out a knife.

As the nearest raider took a step toward Galcon, one of the others cried out, Hey!

A body dropped out of the tree above and landed between Galcon and the raiders. Because of his position, Galcon couldn’t see well, but…

Ky!

Be right with you!

The raider with the knife lunged for her, but Kynacoba dodged and elbowed him in the face. She kicked off a tree to spin and kick the second man to the ground. The third took off into the forest, but Kynacoba grabbed a fallen tree branch and threw it after the fleeing raider. The branch hit his head, and he fell motionless into the mud.

When satisfied all three raiders were out cold, Kynacoba turned to Galcon. She tilted her head to see him right-side up and examined him as he examined her. To his relief, she didn’t look sick, crazy, or harmed in any way. She even looked as if she’d managed to keep her clothes clean and her hair kempt. Her green eyes inspecting him looked as sharp as ever.

I look ten times worse than she does, he thought.

"Oh, thank Heaven!" said Amu’s mind-voice. Galcon, you have to-

Shaking Amu out of his thoughts, Galcon exclaimed, Ky, I can’t believe it! It was all he could think to say.

Kynacoba was looking at him in equal amazement. Galcon, you look terrible. Have you been here the whole time? I saw the Cygnese ship leave months ago. Weren’t you onboard? I thought Amu-

Could you cut me down, please? He was losing feeling in his legs.

Kynacoba pulled out a raider knife from a tie around her arm and threw it at the rope with her usual, mutate-gene enhanced accuracy. The rope broke above his toes. Galcon’s body fell from the air and collapsed in a heap, and he rolled onto his side. He decided to stay seated until blood returned to his legs.

Looking up at her, he smiled. Nice shot.

Of course it was. –Galcon, what are you doing here? I was stealing weapons for Quar last night when-

Quar? He’s alive?

Yes. A group of innocent Phantasyans are camped on the far side of the mountain. I’ve been looking after them this whole time.

This took a moment to sink in. She hadn’t been alone, as he’d feared. She’d had a camp with allies. That was why she looked so well. Galcon felt sorry for himself in comparison, but he was more relieved to find her well.

Why’d I never know Phantasyans are out here? he thought. I’ve been to the far side of the mountain a few times, tracking her. No wonder there were always signs of her in that area. She must’ve hidden the Phantasyans pretty well. The raiders certainly don’t know about their hiding place.

Kynacoba swept loose hair off her forehead and got back on track. Anyway, I was stealing weapons for Quar last night when raiders came running out of the tower, cursing your name. I went back to Quar and told him I’d find you and whoever else came back to rescue me. Since then I’ve been tracking these three all morning, hoping they’d lead me to you. She looked down at him, still in disbelief. I thought maybe the rest of our team had come back for me, but you… You’ve been here the whole time? Alone?

He nodded. "I told Amu to leave me behind when the others escaped. Since I have a mind link, she can teleport us both to safety. I’ve been looking for you… Oh, it’s been