Zarya

Chapter One

The growing fury of the storm outside hurled dust and debris that pounded the window so hard Aaron couldn't have seen out of it even if he was interested in looking up from his computer screen.

The basement lab was dark except for the pale blue glow from the monitor that lit his face. He liked it this way. It kept him focused on his work.

Numbers filled the screen. Calculations, scenarios, prototypes, test sequences. To the average person it would be nothing but a jumbled mess, but Aaron knew he was close. He could feel it.

His long tail danced back and forth behind him, absently counting the seconds as he toiled away. The equations hit another dead end and his left ear wiggled in annoyance. The key was hiding right in front of him. In plain sight. But he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Every time the solution was almost within reach, a single number would throw the whole calculation out of balance or a variable would refuse to fall into place. Aaron leaned against the backrest of his chair and stretched his long frame as far as it would go. Maybe it was time to turn in for the night. He could get to work again in the morning.

Just as he stood to head upstairs, his phone chimed and he winced at the loud, high-pitched sound as he lifted the phone to his ear. He really needed to change that ringtone.

Hello?

Is it ready? Gerik asked.

Aaron sighed and rubbed his forehead with his free hand. Almost, but--

Good. We can show them in the morning.

Gerik, no, it's not finished yet. I'm close, but it's not ready. I just need a little more time.

Aaron could hear Gerik's breathing during the long silence that followed.

I've already set up the meeting. Gerik's tone was decisive. I've got the whole Council board ready to see what we have to offer first thing tomorrow morning.

Why did you--?

It's now or never, Aaron. Do you have something to show them or not?

Aaron shook his head. Gerik was an old friend and he appreciated the man's drive, his passion, but some things couldn't be rushed. He'd told Gerik as much many times over the five years they'd spent working on this project, but the message never seemed to get through. What are they expecting? Maybe he could show them something to tide them over until the real work was completed.

What do you mean? They're expecting what we've promised. A clean, sustainable energy source that can power all of Cydnus.

Aaron could tell Gerik was getting frustrated now.

I called in every favor everyone has ever owed me during my time with The Council to get funding for this project and to get us this meeting. You have to deliver.

Fine, fine, Aaron said. I'll have it tomorrow.

First thing?

First thing. See you there. Aaron dropped the phone on his desk. He'd be up all night to have this ready for a presentation in the morning.

He looked back at the computer screen and one of the equations seemed to light up like a beacon. Aaron bent over his keyboard, fingers flying. Five minutes later, he sat back. That was it. So simple, and staring him right in the face, just as he'd always suspected. He didn't know what had made the difference. Maybe Gerik's overzealous pressure had actually paid off. Whatever it was, it was done now. He had the key. They could offer renewable energy to the entire city.

Aaron, are you almost finished down here?

He turned to see his wife, Messina, standing at the bottom of the steps. He hadn't even heard her walk down. Aaron smiled. I'm just finishing up.

Messina smiled back and Aaron walked across the room to her.

And how is this little one doing? He leaned down to kiss his infant daughter on the forehead.

She's been sleeping well so far tonight. It's late Aaron; you really should come up to bed soon.

He reached out and stroked her bright orange skin with his finger. Just let me get everything shut down and I'll be up in a few minutes. Aaron leaned down to kiss his daughter again. Daddy loves you, Zarya," he whispered.

Messina turned and walked back up the stairs. Just a few minutes?

Aaron held up his right hand. I promise.

Once the door at the top of the stairway closed, he went back to his desk to shut everything down. He had what he needed.

After five long years, he had what he needed.

His finger hovered over the power button. What if...?

Aaron sat down and ran through another flurry of calculations then leaned back, stunned.

He and Gerik had been thinking too small. Now that he had a small-scale solution for sustainable energy figured out, an even more potent possibility leapt out at him. Forget powering New Cebrenia, this could lead to a technology that could provide all of Cydnus with energy for centuries. Maybe even forever. He had to look into this more.

Aaron glanced at the stairs.

But not tonight. He already had something to show The Council. He and Gerik would make the presentation and easily secure more funding to research this further.

Now it was time for sleep.

* * *

Aaron woke up early the next morning, five minutes before his alarm was set to go off. He switched the device off and slid out of bed without waking Messina.

It was still dark outside, but he didn't bother turning on any lights. Like most of the Cydnus people, Aaron could see very well at night. But Aaron's vision was even better than most and he was able to make it to Zarya's room without tripping over a pile of blocks or stepping on the teddy bear that squeaked. He smiled as he dodged around the minefield of toys. How could such a small baby need so many toys?

When he reached Zarya's cradle, she was already waking and squirming around. I'm surprised you're not crying. He reached down and lifted her from the cradle. Keep it up and let Mommy sleep.

He carried the girl into the kitchen and prepared her morning bottle, bouncing her around and talking to her the whole time. Zarya smiled and even giggled a few times, but never made too much noise.

Aaron was just thinking that he was going to get through a full feeding without waking up Messina when she walked into the kitchen.

Sorry, Aaron said. We were trying not to wake you.

Messina smiled. I appreciate it. But my mother's ears won't let me sleep too long once this little one is up. She poked at Zarya's belly and the little girl let out a squeal.

Aaron passed Zarya to her mother. Well it's good that you are up. I've got to get ready and head out.

Messina frowned. So early? It's not even light yet.

I know. Believe me, it's not my choice. Gerik set up a meeting this morning with The Council. He wants to show them the new power cell technology.

Is that even ready?

It wasn't when he called me. But I had a breakthrough last night and it is now. He looked around as if someone could really be listening to them in their own house, and lowered his voice. I might have found something even better. But I'll keep it under wraps for now.

Aaron walked back to the bathroom and took a quick shower. He emerged no more than twenty minutes later and found Messina rocking a crying Zarya in the front room.

She was so happy earlier, he said.

Messina shrugged. Guess that can't last forever. She looked down at the crying baby. Also looks like I'm probably not going back to sleep.

Aaron leaned down to kiss her. Sorry, honey. Maybe she'll quiet down soon. He grabbed his bag from the table and headed for the door.

Are you going by Guida's on your way?

How did you know?

She smiled. Just a guess. Tell her I said 'hello'.

Will do.

The bustle of the city assaulted him the moment he stepped out the door. He missed living in Adamas, far from all the crowds and skyscrapers, but his work made it necessary to be here in New Cebrenia. At least it was better than Cebrenia. If half of what he heard about the city was true, it was almost as big as New Cebrenia and twice as dirty. New Cebrenia may be overrun with technology, but at least some of those gadgets and drones kept things clean.

He walked up to his transport and placed his hand on the window.

Identity verified. Welcome, Aaron. The vaguely female voice was soft. The door opened with a whoosh and Aaron climbed in.

What is your destination, sir?

Guida's.

A map appeared on the windshield and a yellow hue highlighted Guida's house. Confirm destination in 225-4 sector.

Confirmed, Aaron said.

The transport lifted off and merged into the flow of traffic overhead.

Aaron used the time to go over his notes for the presentation. He was sure everything was here and that it would all work, but he had to make sure he could tell the board about it in a way that made sense to everyone. A few of them were once scientists themselves, but most were businessmen and politicians.

A soft chime announced that he was approaching Guida's house so he took manual control of his transport and guided it down to a landing.

She was already coming out the door to meet him, a basket in hand.

Aaron walked up to the woman who had raised him and hugged her. Did you know I was coming?

Guida smiled and tossed another handful of birdseed from her basket. I always know.

He shook his head. He couldn't deny that.

How is Messina? And little Zarya?

They're both doing great. Messina says 'hi'.

Give my love to them both. Come on inside, I have breakfast ready for you.

Aaron followed her inside and was immediately hit with the smell of a delicious breakfast. A soup she had fed him since he was a child simmered over the stove. The smell of spices from the bread baking in the oven would give anyone an appetite. Guida was an amazing cook and Aaron had never been to her house, surprise visit or not, without being treated to a magnificent meal. Not only had she raised Aaron, she was also Messina's godmother. There was no one closer to them in the whole world.

This looks amazing, Aaron said as he sat down to eat. The whole meal was devoured in a few minutes and then Aaron stood to leave.

I assume you're heading over to The Council, Guida said as he paused by the door.

Aaron nodded. Have a big presentation today. Gerik and I have been working on it for five years and we're finally ready to show the board.

Guida frowned. Be careful about what you put in their hands. After all the years I worked for them I can tell you that you shouldn't trust a single person on that council.

I'll be careful, Guida. But she wasn't done. And I'm not so sure I like that Gerik character, either.

Aaron laughed. Gerik is my friend. He can be a little rough sometimes, but without him, this project would never have gotten off the ground.

Guida's face softened. I know, I know. I just worry about you. She hugged him. You be careful, and remember, I love you all.

We love you, too, Aaron said.

His comm beeped as he walked out the door. It was a message from Gerik: Everyone's in place. See you soon.

Aaron smiled at the not-so-subtle reminder that he'd better show up with something worthwhile. He dropped the comm back into his pocket and climbed into his transport. No need to answer; he'd be there soon enough.

Chapter Two

After confirming his new destination, Aaron's transport had him up in the air and on his way. He settled in to go over his notes again and let the autopilot take over the flight to The Council headquarters.

It was still hard to believe that he'd done it. He just had to hope that the presentation would go as planned. Aaron ran the simulation on his data pad again. Based on everything he'd entered, there should be no problems. The only issue was that he hadn't had time to do any real world testing. And The Council wouldn't be impressed by simulations and projections. If he and Gerik were going to get funding to keep this project going, he had to show them something real. Better yet, show them that they needed it.

His other breakthrough would have to be kept secret for now. Those alternative calculations could prove to be an import leap forward for the planet. But if it were to get into the wrong hands, a malevolent purpose could be pursued. Nevertheless, If everything goes as planned, his improved calculations for a new power cell should prove to be an impressive breakthrough.

While Aaron checked and double-checked his simulations, the vastness of New Cebrenia flew by outside his windows.

He'd only moved here two years ago as the project neared its final stages and he became more dependent upon the resources of The Council to make progress. But in that time, he'd already grown accustomed to the sights of the big city. Particularly those he passed on his way to the company. Even though he did a large amount of his work in his own laboratory, he made this trip at least twice a week, frequently, more often than that. The city had been stunning and exciting at first, but the novelty faded fast and it became nothing more than a sprawling cluster of huge buildings.

Gerik's faced sprang to life on the windshield in front of him. Where are you? You never answered my message.

I never answered, because answering won't get me there any faster, Aaron said.

Gerik frowned. Where are you?

Calm down, I'm almost there. Aaron looked past the image of Gerik. I can see the complex ahead now. Which building?

Building 5. Our security clearance has been renewed and we'll have to grab our new badges before we can enter.

Gerik broke the connection before Aaron could respond. The man did appreciate efficiency.

Aaron hadn't realized that his security clearance needed renewal, but he never did pay much attention to that type of thing. Gerik handled details like that so Aaron could stay focused on his work.

The massive Council complex loomed before him and Aaron took manual control of his transport again. Autopilot was perfectly capable of landing a transport in theory, but he still had trouble trusting it to maneuver into tight spaces.

Building 5 wasn't really a building at all, but rather the secret underground portion of the complex. The average citizen saw the four towering structures above ground and thought the company was impressive. They didn't even know of the fifth building that was larger than the four visible ones put together.

Aaron angled his transport toward the entrance. The ground opened before him as he flew close. Once inside, a voice came over his vehicle comm system.

Please report to hangar 3 for security inspection.

This was only Aaron's second time coming to Building 5 and he didn't really know where hangar 3 was. Fortunately, signs lit up ahead to guide him in.

Aaron pulled into the hangar. Immediately, four small drones emerged from the walls and swarmed his vehicle. Bright probe lights swept every inch. He bumped the control yoke and realized the manual control had been overridden. That was a new feature.

All clear, the same voice said into his transport.

His controls unlocked and Aaron flew out the other side of the security hangar.

Another sign appeared in front of him just as he was wondering where to go. It pointed him to the left and he found a large parking bay where he set his vehicle down, powered it off, and climbed out.

There would be no more tests, no more simulations. Either his technology worked, or it didn't. Aaron took a deep breath and walked for the entrance.

The moment Aaron exited the parking bay and stepped into the building, Gerik grabbed his arm and led him down the hallway at a brisk pace.

Let's go, Gerik said.

What's the rush? I'm here early.

Gerik didn't answer and Aaron didn't bother pushing the point. When Gerik was pursuing a goal, there was no point in talking to him.

They were stopped by a guard in front of the elevator. If Aaron remembered correctly, this elevator went straight to the main conference hall. The hall was ancient and had been used by the Cydnus people for hundreds of years. It was Aaron's first time seeing it.

Gerik? Aaron? the guard asked.

That's us. Gerik flashed his best smile.

I'll just have to verify your identities. The large overly muscular guard pulled out a handheld scanner which he waved over Gerik, and then Aaron. The small blip it emitted must have meant they passed, because the guard held out two badges in his oversized hands. These are your new security badges. His low, deep voice echoed through the hall, commanding authority. Push this button if you want to speak. When you have permission, it will flash green. Otherwise, you are to remain silent.

Aaron took his badge with a glance at Gerik. This wasn't sounding much like a presentation. Why would they need to wait for permission to speak if Gerik had called the meeting in the first place?

The guard pressed a series of buttons and the elevator doors slid open.

Gerik and Aaron stepped inside and the elevator began its descent the instant the doors closed.

Aaron faced Gerik. Why would we have to wait for permission to speak? Aren't they here to see what we've come up with?

Gerik smiled. Not exactly.

What kind of meeting is this, Gerik?

The top councilmen and chief scientists are discussing the energy crisis. It's an emergency meeting called to evaluate our options.

So they're not expecting to hear from us at all?

The doors opened again before Gerik could answer. They stepped forward to have a young woman scan their badges.

Aaron was left wondering if these were real security clearances or something Gerik had cooked up to get them into this meeting. Gerik did have connections, he had to hand him that.

A door opened and Aaron saw that the meeting was already well under way. They entered unnoticed and stood against the back wall.

Order! Chairman Flindar hit the gavel to settle the chaos. I will hear from the gentleman.

The chairman's half-exposed face grimaced, tilting the facial device hud at an odd angle. The facial device provided regular updates along with a direct line of communication to his officers. The eye module attachment showed him the identities of everyone in the hall. A gold epaulet on his right shoulder proclaimed his status as the highest ranking officer. Dark grey hair extended past his shoulders; the bottom half of his body was covered with a mechanical suit.

The people of Cydnus will suffer greatly if we don't find another sustainable energy source soon, a voice was yelling as they walked in. Aaron thought he recognized the man with the small curved horn on his chin as a senior councilman. He wore the silver epaulet on his shoulder that confirmed his rank. At the rate oxygen levels are declining, we will be completely without energy within fifteen years. The old technology simply doesn't work anymore.

Another council member, a stocky older man with a tail too long for his size, wore a pistol in clear view. His name was Jerion, a senior council member and close friend of Aaron's. The man stood. "Couldn't this have been avoided? Why have we only developed a single source of energy if it's this unsustainable and unreliable? The people of Cydnus depend on this Council for their energy needs. Why didn't