Random Musings

Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire, Part 5

2009-11-08T14:03:48Z

For those who expressed an interest, here is the next part to the Adrian and Kali story.

Rating: Gen
Genre: Drama

The green-uniformed medical personnel, with face masks that obscured the lower half their faces, gently removed Adrian from the restraints after giving him a sedative and some strong painkillers.

“This is disgusting,” said Penn, the taller of the two assistants, as they lifted Adrian onto a gurney, the slick, partially dried fluids making a slurping sound as they clung to his skin.

Dr. Greenwell, whose midnight-black hair contrasted sharply with his pale face, was an old-timer and had seen many cruel things done in the name of the Empire. Nothing surprised him anymore. “Be glad it wasn't you.” He retrieved the 'scientific' log kept by the Therapist and read it quickly.

“Someone’s going to have to wash him.” Yuen, the other medical assistant had the face of an ex-boxer, with a crooked nose that angled strangely, but his hands were surprisingly gentle.

At a quick look from Greenwell, he said, “I guess that would be us.”

“You guess right.”

Penn's nose crinkled under his mask. “You know, I never really liked him. Always thought he was a cold, stuck up fish, but what they did to him...”

“Makes you almost wish you could like him?” said Greenwell, who never became attached to his patients; life was much easier that way. That wasn't to say he was a heartless man, but he expressed his caring in detached, impartial competence and concern.

“Feel sorry for at least,” said Penn.

“We’ll keep him under for now. He's going to need all the rest he can get.”

“What about...” Yuen's sympathetic almond eyes rested on Adrian's sweat-stained face. Being new at this, he still had a personal reaction, but he was learning quickly.

“Real therapy?”

“He’s going to need it, won’t he?”

Dr. Greenwell finished reading the last entries in the sickening log. “Not sure they want him to recover. Or need him to."

“Well, that’s...." Yuen's eyes reflected reluctant resignation. "…none of my business.”

“Smart man.”

Penn adjusted the automated steering controls on the gurney. “You know, I thought he was smart, smart as they came. But letting them do this to him? That was stupid.”

“It’s not our place to wonder about other people’s lack of common sense," said Dr. Greenwell.

“Yeah, s’pose not.”

**********

Captain Tarn strode onto the bridge; his hands clasped behind him, the dark look on his face making everyone stand a little straighter at their stations. He nodded absently to the duty officer and disappeared into the anteroom that served as his office.

"Psst." Bryce whispered out of the side of his mouth to Kali. His fingers seemed to work by themselves as he ran the obligatory daily diagnostics on the weapons systems. He'd performed this task so many times, he could do it in his sleep. And sometimes in his dreams, he did, much to his horror and consternation.

Day shift was usually busy, full of routine tasks, but it was still an endless stream of boringness. Without anything to shoot at, his greatest source of excitement was gossiping about the crew.

Kali's fingers drummed the control panel at her flight station. Her eyes kept flicking surreptitiously to the closed door that led to Captain Tarn's office, even as she ran diagnostics on the life support and environmental systems at her own station. "I'm busy."

"You can talk and work. 'Sides the computers do most of it. We just stare at it and try not to fall asleep."

"I interpret the results."

"Yeah, that's later." Bryce chewed on his lower lip as he noticed her preoccupation. "About before, I'm really sorry I couldn't help. I--" Several lights on his panel turned orange and beeped urgently at him. "Damn." He rapped the readings but the indicators blinked obstinately. "Double damn."

The duty officer, Pincer, a balding man with a mole on his chin said, "What's the noise over there?"

Bryce grumbled under his breath before saying in a suitably respectful voice, "Just a few warning signals on the output flow regulators, lieutenant."

Pincer was a by-the-book officer, and his book told him to take care of warning signals before they developed into greater problems. He rushed over. "What's wrong with them?"

"I've already started the secondary diagnostics," said Bryce, who had just that second, entered the commands to begin them.

"Good. Good." The mole on Pincer's chin jumped with excitement. Finally something much more interesting than babysitting the lower ranks, even if it was only a few minor warning lights.

"It's probably just a faulty reading. We get those all the time. It'll even out in the secondary diagnostics. You'll see."

Pincer nodded slowly, "Yes. Could be." He eyed Bryce intently. "But then that would mean the system sensors need to be recalibrated, won't it?"

Bryce groaned.

"Ensign Tranton, report to my office." The Captain's strident voice came over the oval comm speaker on the wall.

"Go on Tranton. I'll watch the diagnostics," said Pincer.

**********

Kali stood at attention in front of the Captain's desk, staring at a spot on the wall, waiting for Tarn to say something.

Tarn leaned back tiredly like a balloon slowly deflating, losing form and life. He stared at her over laced fingers. "At ease, ensign."

Kali relaxed a little and dared to look at his face. She'd been audacious the other day, barging to the officer's quarters and confronting the Captain with her ideas to save Adrian but she was acutely aware that he was the most senior person on the ship and she only a lowly ensign.

"You don't have to be nervous, Tranton. I'm not Barker."

"Yes, sir. Is--" Her questions were like a flood of water waiting at the sluice gates.

"He's in the medical unit now. Recovering."

"Is he alright?"

Tarn winced as he remembered the scene in the Security Section. "I don't know, ensign."

"I'd like to see him."

Tarn sat up. "It’s not a good idea."

Kali's eyes were troubled. "I don't understand, I thought you said he was recovering."

"Physically he will." Tarn sank back into his chair. "You saved his life, Tranton but I'm not sure he'll thank you for it."

"Does he blame me?"

"I never told him your full role in this."

"What did you tell him?"

"I said you asked to be transferred to the Trykor to help him. I told him you didn't understand the implications."

"You lied to him." She had the sneaking suspicion she wasn't going to like his next words.

"He doesn't need to know it was your idea."

"I don't want to lie to him, Captain."

"You don't have a choice if you're going to help him. This isn't just about your relationship with Stannis." Tarn exhaled loudly and stared up at the ceiling. "He's going to need you when he gets over to the Trykor. I know him. He has a tendency to get into trouble with people he doesn't respect. And someone like Admiral Verel will grate on Adrian's nerves. He needs someone he can trust. There won't be anyone there for him."

"Then I can't lie to him."

"Are all Tellarans this stubborn? Morality isn't worth anything if it doesn't produce the right results."

"I don't agree." She stared hard at him, opening up her psi senses to their maximum sensitivity, trying to decide if he was being serious. Unfortunately, he was.

"Well, you're going to have to. If Adrian finds out it was your idea to pressure him using yourself as leverage, he'll never forgive you. I've already done my deed for the day, good or evil, depending on your point of view. The rest is up to you."

"I don't understand, sir."

"Barker and the therapists were never able to break him. He fought them to the very end." The stresses of the last few hours were heavy weights loading down on shoulders that were sagging under the burden. "But he broke when I threatened you." He leaned forward, his eyes like lasers. "Do you understand what that means? That's why he can't see you right now."

"I knew he wasn't going to like it. I knew he might hate me for doing it." Kali's legs were shaky and her stomach was queasy. "Did--did I make a mistake, sir?"

Captain Tarn felt as ill as she looked. "No, Tranton, you didn't. It was the only way to save his life. But understand this, Kali. They're going to watch both of you carefully and he will have no choice except to do what they want. He will consider that worse than dying, and in his own eyes, he's lost."

"Because of what he did for me?"

"Yes. Adrian doesn't like failing. He will see what he did for you as a weakness."

"I'll try to help him. Maybe we can escape and--"

"Stop." Tarn held up his hand. "I don't want to hear the details. You're a good woman, Tranton, and Stannis is a far better man than he wants people to think. I wish the both of you luck."

His words had finality to them. They would receive no more help from him.

"Thank you, sir."

Tarn was about to terminate their conversation but there was one more thing to be said, one final truth that had to be told. "Adrian saved my career. Did you know that?"

Kali's eyes reflected surprise. "I didn't."

Adrian's eyes haunted the Captain, the brokenness and surrender, the anger and pain, the hatred of himself and the love he couldn't acknowledge but which had brought a proud man to his knees. Hidden beneath the prickly, icy exterior, Adrian was more human than any of them and the vision of those deep, anguished eyes were burned into Tarn's memory.

"No one knows. He made me swear not to tell anyone. We hadn't found anything worth reporting in two years. No valuable minerals or planets worth colonizing. Nothing of note. Central Command was going to recall the ship, probably demote me to a penal colony. Adrian spent months developing a new scanner to give them."

"I thought…" Kali's mind went back to the months when Adrian was glued to his computers or was shut up in his lab, "he was just obsessing over it. I tried to distract him."

"I'm glad you didn't succeed." He sighed tiredly. "You're being sent over as his consort. You will share a cabin together."

"No, I don’t--" Her voice trailed off in shock. "We don't have that kind of relationship."

"You're going to have to work something out."

"I--"

"You are being used as leverage against his cooperation. They had to believe you and he were intimate. I didn’t have any choice."

"He's not going to like it."

"He's an adult. I'm sure he'll manage, or think of something to do. We'll be arriving at Base 337 in three days."

She shook her head vigorously. "We really don’t have that kind of relationship. He barely tolerates me helping him."

"I'm sure you'll think of something. You're dismissed Ensign."

The Request

2009-11-08T04:08:20Z

This drabble (alright it's a bit mooore than a drabble) is for emerald_happy who won the Favourites meme challenge when she guessed the connection between SG-1: Atlantis and Traders.

Her plot bunny was a bit of a challenge because I've never written these two alone before.

The Plot Bunny - Vila said Avon was helping him and Corinne set up the magic show. Did Vila ask for help or did Avon offer? Oh to see how that came about! Not to mention Corinne's response. ~~I bet she glomped Avon. Good for her. No one else is exuberant enough to dare. XD~~ Or was it Corinne's idea in the first place? I wouldn't put it past her since she invited Jenna to Reya's party...

Avon straightened up from the computer and flexed his stiff neck, rotating it from side to side. It cracked in complaint at his neglect, making him feel like a rusty engine fit only for the recycler. Though on this side of the Calendar, metal that rusted could only be found in museums.

He caught the whiff of a scent out of place in the antiseptic lab.

A sweet smell. A woman.

It wasn't Cally, he would know her. Not Jenna. The last few weeks of enforced proximity assured him of that. That left Reya or Corinne.

"Corinne."

The young woman blew out a disgruntled sigh several feet from him. Her voice was melodic and as bright as her personality. "Oh! I thought I could sneak up on you! How did you know it was me?"

"It wasn't difficult." The Commander was more straightforward and less frivolous. She would have announced her attentions.

It was time to increase the autorepair priority for the lab's door, which was stuck open. An open-door policy might work for the trusting and naïve, but he was certainly neither of those. "Is there something you wanted or is this a social visit?" The way he said it made it sound like a disease he didn't want to catch.

"I…" Corinne twirled the ends of her shoulder-length black hair. The implications of 'bearding the lion in his den' (in Vila's words) finally hit her and was stifling her normally exuberant courage. "I know you don't like being disturbed, A…Avon. You're busy and…you have lots of important things to do."

She always felt awkward when addressing him. Calling him Avon seemed wrong somehow, he felt more like an uncle. Corinne suppressed a giggle at the thought of seeing the look on his face if she called him that. She might one of these days, just to see his reaction.

Avon's eyes narrowed in thought. Corinne was unusually subdued and she appeared to understand the need to avoid bothering him with trivial matters. He might be able to spare a few moments to pursue this, and he could truthfully tell Cally that he had taken a break. "What is the nature of your concern?"

Corinne's eyes brightened. "You're interested in helping us?"

"Us?" Suspicion darkened his brow as he remembered the hallucinogenics Vila had placed in his 'water' during the party. He had yet to find time to work on the molecular analyzer in case there were future incidents. "As in you and Vila?"

"Yes!" Her voice was like the light of a thousand suns in its enthusiasm. Even though Avon did not intend to help her in anything he did not deem important, even a cold, factual heart could not fail to be warmed a little by this burst of sunshine into the dark place that was his life.

"We're doing another magic show! This time on the ship!"

Avon's eyes tightened and the wrinkles at the corners deepened. "An entertainment."

"You enjoyed that one on Tellar didn't you?"

Even though he couldn't see, he could imagine the anxious and open expression her face. There was something about naiveté or innocence that always touched an unexpected chord in him.

In his mind's eye, he remembered the simple faith of Meegat. She believed in him and he had made her people's survival his concern. At times, Blake had that naiveté, when he wasn't touched by the darkness of what the Federation had done to him.

"It was interesting."

"Oh." There was a pause. "Vila told me about this. In your language…that means you really liked it!"

Arms wrapped around him without warning. Avon flinched and was about to push her away when he realized she was giving him a hug. He was still trying to decide the appropriate response when she released him.

"I'm glad you liked it! It meant a lot to Vila. He said you're an expert at magic and knew all the tricks. We were so nervous you wouldn't like it."

Why would it matter to the thief (or Corinne) whether he liked it or not? He had thought it was simply because of the bet and the winning of the unconditional favour. Corinne seemed to be suggesting it had a different significance for them.

"What is this matter you wanted to see me about?"

"Well…" She described the illusion they wanted to produce. "Vila said it's impossible unless you help us with some of the numbers. We don't want to blow anything up."

"That would not be advisable."

The idea was a sophisticated one. Surprising for a Delta grade thief with a low-rate education. Avon had to admit it challenged his creativity. It might have peripheral value if he could adapt this idea for later use.

A quiver of a smile lifted the corners of his lips briefly. It wouldn't take long with the proper computer simulation. Fortunately, he was an expert. "Come back tomorrow."

"You're not going to help us?" Her disappointment was palpable.

"I will have the schedule of numbers for you tomorrow. I cannot have you and Vila blowing up vital parts of the ship."

"Oh, Avon! Thank you!" She moved to hug him again.

Even without functional eyes, Avon could 'see' another assault coming. He held up his hand. "One is more than enough."

Corinne bubbled over with laughter.

B7 The Ends: Tingash - Chapter 03

2009-11-06T22:12:06Z

Category: Humour, Drama, Romance
Rating: Gen
2nd Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: Kirsten attempts to have a serious discussion with Sester. Avon, Argus and Vila have discussions of a different sort on the flight deck.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Three

Next Chapter

"Our fears," said Kirsten.

Sester's brows lifted in momentary surprise before he touched the hand that held him at bay and lightly drew a line of heat up her arm. "I'd rather do something more interesting."

"I know you would." Her knees felt weak at the artistry of his caress, it was just as well she was sitting down.

"Well then…" His voice was husky with desire and he pressed forward as her hand gave way, "what are we waiting for?"

They were close now, enough for him to nuzzle her neck gently, sending a thrill of desire through her body. "We're waiting for you to stop avoiding the question."

"Is that what I'm trying to do?" A gentle breath of air passing from his lips, lightly tickling her sensitive skin, and was rewarded with a hissed intake of breath and low moan at the back of her throat, bit off before it escaped.

His mouth followed the curve of her neck, barely touching the smooth, silky surface. She sighed with pleasure. He lifted his head, his eyes feverish with desire and his cheeks flushed. For a long moment he looked into her eyes, searching for hidden truths that were supposed to be an open file to someone like him.

With difficulty Kirsten managed to say in a normal voice, "That's what it feels like."

"It feels like I'm trying to do something else." His tongue snaked out and slowly drew a hot moist trail from her neck to the back of her ear. This time she couldn't help herself and let out a throaty moan as her head leaned into his wet caress. Sester smiled.

In a breathless voice, Kirsten said, "You really don't want to talk about this, do you?"

"Can't we do this first?" he mumbled as he gently nibbled her earlobe.

Kirsten let out a reluctant sigh and pushed against his chest until he pulled back. "No."

"Just like that?"

"I think this is more important."

"Are you going to make it a condition?"

The words were casual and light, and said with a touch of a smile, but Kirsten was aware this was deceptive. Her own voice contained raw sincerity, "I would never do that to you."

"So, that means we're not going to be doing anymore of this," he drew his hand lightly up her arm in teasing circles. "...today?"

Her voice took on a harder, sarcastic edge. "Do all psychostrategists lose their ability to be subtle when they're personally stressed, or just you?"

"You stress me in many ways." His tone was still light and the circles were like little traps, capturing her attention.

It was a game. Kirsten shot a barb amidst the circles. "You're afraid."

"I'm afraid of many things. Large snakes…"

"Me?" Her voice rose in challenge.

"You're the scariest of all…" A smile tugged at the corner's of his lips.

"And you?"

"Why would I be afraid of myself?" He studied her intently as her words sought to pierce his guard. She was sharp, persistent and perceptive, and there was an element of danger in what she was doing to him. His pulse beat with excitement and a touch of fear, and his body was responding in primal predictability.

"That seems to be what you don't want to tell me."

"Maybe I don't know."

"That's very good," said this time with outright cynicism.

"And so is this…" Unexpectedly he slid her arm out of the way and pressed up against her, his hands surrounding her waist and pulling her closer to the edge of the table. He bent his head to kiss her but she twisted her head out of the way.

"Not so fast."

"I don't plan to be fast."

She deliberately turned her head to face him and looked him straight in the eyes. "You also don't plan to answer my question."

"Is it that important to you?"

There was a pause, a rift in the fabric of time, when you come to the realization that what you were talking about, had taken on a significance that could change the pattern of the stars. Kirsten knew Sester would tell her if she said yes.

"I don't want you to tell me now."

"Is this an attempt at reverse psychology?" A grin of amusement passed across his face, like the flicker of a shadow.

"I know you'll tell me if I asked. That's why I won't. You're more important to me than any answers I want to know."

Sester bent forward, his lips brushing lightly on hers in a kiss that was unlike the ones he had planned. Tender and warm. He desired this woman more than ever. “I will tell you a little.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I know, but I want you to know me. Just a little.”

"I want you to know me too. Just a little."

With that, they shared with each other the fears the Thaarn had revealed. Sester avoided telling her about Venner's role and a few other details, but he told her everything else.

**********

Argus and Avon were discussing Tingash when Vila approached the flight deck steps. Spotting him from a distance, Argus said loudly, "Avon, what should we do about Vila?"

Avon's head tilted at the sudden increase in volume. "Something must be done."

"Oh, I agree. We can't have that kind of behaviour…oh, Vila, come in, we were just talking about you."

Almost stumbling down the steps but saved by his agility, Vila said nervously, "Nothing bad I hope."

"Not for us," said Avon with a poker face.

"I thought…" Vila's words trailed off as he frantically tried to remember their conversation in the lab. He had thought everything was fine.

"Avon, didn't you say thinking was bad?" asked Argus seriously.

"Only when you do it."

"Oh. And Vila?"

"Sometimes he shows distinct signs of intelligence."

Vila's forehead and nose crinkled in outrage, "Now wait just a minute, all my ideas are good ones."

"That's a matter of opinion," said Avon.

Argus pressed his hand to his head. "That party…my headaches still have headaches."

"You didn't like the party?" Vila asked, a frown clouding his face.

"I would if I could remember it," said Argus wryly as he rubbed his head.

Avon said, "My recollection is unreliable due to your liberal use of hallucinogenics."

"I wanted everyone to have a good time," said Vila, a whining quality entering his voice.

As he became the focus of their attention, Vila's eyes narrowed. "When did the two of you start cooperating so well?"

There was a long moment of silence as Avon and Argus turned to each other. Vila wondered if they had suddenly developed telepathy and hadn't bothered to tell him.

Avon said expressionlessly, "Five seconds before you entered the room."

"I don't often get to put one over on you." Argus chuckled, "I really enjoyed the bachelor party, Vila. I couldn't have imagined a better one. I've been meaning to say, thank you. So thank you."

"You had me going there. Just a bit, mind you. Hard to put one over me. I knew it almost right away."

"It's gratifying to know that your penchant for modesty is unchanged," said Avon flatly.

Vila grinned and there was a slim, uneven grin on Avon's face.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Three

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

B7 The Ends: Tingash - Chapter 02

2009-11-04T15:26:32Z

Category: Drama, Angst
Rating: Gen
2nd Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: Tension on the flight deck between Avon, Argus, the Wolf and Sester. Jenna gets physical.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Two

Next Chapter

Argus stood alone staring at the star field on the flight deck, his arms crossed over his broad chest, trying to come to terms with his actions and motivations. Guilt ate at him like acid.

This was silly. He shouldn't be feeling this way, but he couldn't help it. After he told the others about his deal with Servalan, they'd all forgiven him and expressed unanimous confidence in his leadership, but it only made him feel worse.

You all have a choice to make. Can you still trust me? And do you want me to continue as your leader?

They should have said no. He wished they had said no.

The responsibility for so many lives was a heavy weight that threatened to crush him. His eyes closed and his head bowed, his fists clenching in anguish, trying to shut out the faces that were always with him, the faces of the living and the dead.

If only he could fight alone and never cause the death of another friend, another comrade in arms.

One's pack is loyal.

I know. I just wish…they had a better leader. It no longer felt strange having the Wolf in his head.

The creature sneezed. One is a good leader.

I don't know, Wolf.

One is Alpha. One is leader. It threw its head up in proud confidence.

I wished I were as sure as you are.

One does not wish. One is, and one must. There is no wish.

Argus sighed. It must be nice for everything to be so simple, but the creature didn't understand his guilt and his culpability.

One understands, but one acts. One must do so for the pack.

A soft tap-tap at the doorway caused Argus to turn his head to see Avon, dragon-headed staff in hand, coming down the steps. The staff was extended before him, but not like a normal blind man trying to feel his way, it was more like a prop for show. He didn't use it once as he unerringly made his way to the couches.

Argus said jokingly, "You lost Jenna? Or did Jenna lose you?"

Avon 'stared' at him without responding.

"You know, Avon, it's hard to believe you're blind sometimes," Argus said as Avon sat down without hesitation.

"As long as you don't move anything."

"I wouldn't dare," Argus grinned, "but I'm not so sure about Vila."

"Neither am I."

Taking a seat opposite, Argus asked, "Is there something you wanted?"

Avon's sightless eyes were almost as disconcerting as his normal ones. "The decision has been made. Worrying about the rationality of it is pointless."

"That's easy for you to say." Argus sighed, "But it's not that simple."

"It is that simple. It's just not convenient."

"That's easy for you to say."

"Don't be a fool. These people need you."

"And you?"

This was an unexpectedly personal question. Avon hesitated before saying in a measured voice. "You are the only one they will all follow."

"I asked about you."

"There were times when your simplistic approach might have allowed for quicker decision-making."

"What does that mean?" He leaned forward.

"Of course, more thinking is generally preferred," said Avon.

"I'm starting to think you're related to Sester."

"That wasn't the thinking Avon was talking about." Sester, as he was in the habit of doing, was leaning against the doorway listening. He came down and joined them. "What Avon is trying to say, is that it takes you less time to come to some decisions than it takes him. But he also thinks you take far too little time to come to those decisions."

There was a low growl as Argus and the Wolf reacted to the intruder.

"What are you doing here?" Avon's voice was chill.

"You're not that hard to follow." Sester grinned good-naturedly at them.

"You were following me."

"That's what I said."

"Why?" The word was simple but not the way Avon said it.

"Well, you and Argus together…provides for some interesting discussions."

"You mean amusing." There was a sharp quality to Avon's flat voice that could have sliced through Herculaneum plating.

Sester's eyes sparkled like diamonds. "You know me too well."

"I doubt that." Avon's voice was a door shut in the faces of unwelcome visitors. "This is a private discussion."

"Of course, admitting how you feel about each other is very private. If you managed to say it, that is. That's why I'm here. To provide translation."

Grrr.

There was an inquisitive gleam in Sester's eyes. "Wolf. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

The Wolf cocked its head in curiosity. This human-creature had pride that made its hackles rise but the Sester-human was addressing it directly as the Avon-Alpha did. "One understands."

"You do?" A sliver of a smile was all Sester allowed himself this time. "You understand what Avon and Argus were saying to each other?"

Argus shook his head. "Stop that!"

"You interrupted our conversation," said Sester.

"Stop trying to manipulate me using the Wolf!"

"But the Wolf understands your conversation better than you do." Sester's voice had become as expressionless and factual as Avon's normally was.

"I don't need the Wolf to say…I mean...What I want to say is…" He looked at the man whose dimmed eyes were 'staring' intently in his direction, his head tilted in concentration. "Avon, we don’t…need to say it, do we?"

There was a long, awkward silence. Sester waited. There was nothing more powerful than the intervals that begged for words.

The man to whom sentiment was a weakness said, "I have never understood why it should be necessary to become irrational in order to prove that you care, or, indeed, why it should be necessary to prove it at all."

"That's…what I say," said Argus. "But don't tell Reya. She'd never understand."

"Cally does, but she prefers not to."

"Women."

"Agreed."

Sester shook his head and smiled.

**********

Whack! Jenna hit Lt. Dain with a stick padded on both ends with large knobs of soft black material, at least it was supposed to be soft until it hit her. They faced each other in the combatant's circle in the gym, each trying to get past the other's guard. They barely noticed the dozens of others using the various equipment dotted around the room.

"You still have a great deal of anger." Dain said calmly as he brushed off her stick with his own.

"Yeah, well, you would too if you were me. Yieee!" She hit him again, this time a solid thump on the arm that she could feel in her own bones.

When they first began these 'exercise' sessions, she was wary of hitting him too hard, but when it was obvious he barely felt it, she put her full strength and anger into each strike.

Jenna was fairly certain Dain was allowing her to hit him most of the time. He didn't seem that incompetent with his own stick the times he hit her. She wasn't about to say anything. The lieutenant was a nice young man who was trying to help her.

She tried an overhand strike. Thuck. This one only hit Dain's stick.

Dain was young but not as young as she first thought, early 30s but with a boyish face. He was so excruciatingly polite and calm that she wondered what it would take to rattle him.

This time, she attempted a feint first and then a forward lunge. Dain leapt back quickly. "That was good, ma'am. Almost got me that time."

"Not even close."

"Well, maybe not." He put his stick up in close guard position and Jenna followed suit. They bowed to each other. "It was a pleasure, ma'am."

"It was too, lieutenant."

They hung the sticks back on the racks along the wall. Jenna picked up her towel and dabbed the beads of sweat trickling down her face. Dain did the same, wiping with broad strokes and hanging the towel around his neck.

He asked, "Same time tomorrow?"

"If I can get away."

"You and Avon don't get along?"

"Whatever gave you that idea?"

"The ferocity with which you hit me. You must hate him a great deal. It must be difficult working together."

"I don't hate him." Her hands wrung the towel, twisting it in knots. "But…I don't like him. I never have."

"Would it be too forward of me to ask why?"

"Yes, it would."

"Sorry for prying, ma'am. I only wanted to understand."

"So you could help me further?"

The lieutenant's ears took on a slightly pinkish tinge. "I wouldn't presume to be able to. That kind of thing is out of my league."

"But not whacking people over the head?"

Dain rubbed the side of his head where Jenna had hit him at the beginning of the session. "Maybe being whacked over the head would be more accurate."

"Thank you for trying, lieutenant. You're probably the only person on the ship who bothers to be nice to me."

"They don't hate you, ma'am, but it is hard to forget."

Jenna bristled at the continued use of the word she didn't like. "Lieutenant. There is something you can do that will help me tremendously."

"Anything within reason, ma'am."

She smiled at his caution. "Stop calling me, ma'am. It makes me sound like your mother. I'm only…well, let's just say I'm not your mother's age. Just call me Jenna."

Dain nodded. "I will, Jenna. And, if you don't mind, I will also tell the others to stop calling you ma'am."

"That would be greatly appreciated, lieutenant."

**********

After annoying Avon and Argus some more on the flight deck, Sester returned to his cabin to think. Kirsten was waiting outside for him. "I was wondering where you went to."

His eyes searched her carefully. "You don't have those handcuffs, do you?"

"This early in the morning?"

"What was I thinking?" he chuckled as he opened the door and let her enter first.

"You were thinking. Just not with your brain." She brushed past him, the sweet scent of flowers in her hair drifting close, reminding him of spring on Rungar 5.

"We psychostrategists have many talents." He followed the flowers in.

“I just bet you do.”

“And which of my talents would you like to see today?” It seemed a long time since they’d played their games together.

Kirsten sat at the edge of the table, her legs showing invitingly below the knee-length burgundy skirt, a promise of further delights. It was a call Sester found hard to resist as he stepped closer, enough that she couldn’t swing her legs without touching him.

“I want to talk.”

He leaned forward, his voice like raw silk, “I can do more than talk.”

Kirsten kissed him, her mouth hot and ravenous, parting his lips. Their tongues touched, wrestled, and explored each other like wet sinuous snakes, reaching deeper in a hunger to taste more. Sester’s arms circled her waist, his rising interest pressing up against her legs as Kirsten brought him even closer, one hand at the base of his neck as her other hand slid his shirt up.

At the back of his mind, Sester wondered when she would stop and leave him frustrated or would she continue, finally allowing their bodies the release they both craved. He didn’t know which he wanted more.

Kirsten pulled back, her hand pressing on his chest. “I really would like to talk.”

He leaned forward but her arm stiffened, pushing against him. “We can’t do both?”

“Not the way we do it.”

He grinned and took a step back. “I suppose not. What did you want to talk about?”

“Our fears.”

Previous Chapter

Chapter Two

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

A completely gratuitous and frivolous poll...

2009-11-01T14:08:41Z

From a suggestion by reapermum...

View Poll: Argus as token Kirk

B7 The Ends: Tingash - Chapter 01

2009-10-31T21:14:20Z

Category: Drama
Rating: Gen
2nd Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: The next journey begins.

Note: Here you are, emerald_happy. I hope you've made good progress on your essay ;)

Chapter One

Next Chapter

"We will begin with the tertiary sequencing today." Avon felt for the arms of the hover chair in front of the computer terminal, and lowered himself into it.

"Finally!" said Jenna as she let go of his arm and took up her own seat. She'd found a thicker padded one today. She needed it for the long hours Avon insisted on working. The man was a slave driver. It didn't matter that he worked even longer hours than she did. The man wasn't human, what did he care?

"Such enthusiasm." Avon's voice contained a sneer, even if his face didn't.

"Let's get on with it." She slid the old keyboard over and positioned her piping hot coffee next to it.

Avon sniffed slightly, savouring the rich odour. He was more appreciative of smells since he lost his sight, they added a level of detail he craved. There was time enough later to have Jenna bring one from the food dispensers. A task she would find demeaning no doubt.

"Use the formula we ended with yesterday."

Jenna asked with irritation, "How am I supposed to do that?"

"You don't remember." It was a flat, sarcastic comment that could have crushed diamonds.

"Not everyone's a heartless computer like you."

"As you undoubtedly define yourself as a human being, I shall choose to accept that as a compliment."

"Yes, you do that." She wished Avon could benefit from the snarl on her lips that accompanied the cynical tone, it was a work of art. Instead she jabbed the "ON" button on the simulator unit. "Well, what are we waiting for?"

Avon reached forward to the control panel in front of him. His hands immediately clenched, trying to hide the shaking of his hands. It was becoming progressively worse. He was aware of the increased rhythm of his heart, beating a staccato of warning. "Bring me coffee."

"What am I? Your personal slave?" Jenna's voice rose in the tone of the indignant.

"If the title fits." It was a struggle to keep his voice impassive.

"Why you…!" she rose from her chair, a vengeful ocean goddess rising from the stormy seas.

Avon clutched at his chest and doubled over as a stab of pain pierced his heart.

"Avon!" Anger turned to shock as Jenna's human reflexes took over and she put her arm around his shoulders.

He tried to push away the helping hands, but that only made the shaking apparent. "I don't need your help."

"Then you're not only a computer, you're an idiot." Jenna was not budging. "Why didn't you tell me it was this bad?"

"Would you have cared?" Cally's voice was a splash of icy water from the doorway. She had rushed from her cabin when she sensed Avon was in trouble. She was acutely aware of his deteriorating condition.

Jenna looked up, a glare in her eyes. "Don't you start."

"I don't need to start." Cally checked Avon's life signs. Her voice softened, "Avon, you need to go to the medical unit."

"The research…" he gasped, his words trailing off as his heart pounded in his ears.

"It'll have to wait."

"It…can't…w…" Breathing had suddenly become a monumental task.

Lt. Dain and Baxter entered the lab and rushed over to help lift Avon from his seat.

**********

Argus raced into the medical unit so fast, everyone could feel a rush of wind as he skidded to a halt. "How is he?" he demanded when he saw Avon lying on the bio-bed.

Everyone stared at him.

"What is it?" he looked around at their puzzled faces.

"Wolf?" asked Cally hesitantly.

"I'm not the Wolf." Argus was finding it increasingly frustrating that people kept mistaking him for the Wolf. True, they were in the same body, but it was HIS body.

"You're naked." Jenna tried not to stare at his muscular physique, which stood out like a well-proportioned statue when he was angry or miffed as he was now.

Argus looked down at himself. "I am NOT naked. I have trousers on."

Cally said, "Yes, you can see why we were confused."

"I was in a hurry, you said it was an emergency. Next time, I'll take the time to put on some clothes."

"Perhaps a name tag could be useful."

They all turned to stare at Avon who had pushed himself up on his elbows.

Argus growled, "You must be fine. I'll go and put some clothes on. The sight of my naked body appears to be an eyesore."

Jenna said, "We didn't say it was an eyesore. In fact…"

"I DON'T want to hear it!"

"There is nothing wrong with my hearing," said Avon in a slightly elevated flat tone. People still insisted on raising their voices when speaking to him.

Cally asked Argus, "Why are you so irritable?"

"Is it a full moon?"

Argus whirled to glare at Sester who was leaning against the doorway. "What are you doing here?"

"I imagine for the same reason you are." He came towards them, a faintly amused look on his face.

"I don't believe you."

"Direct. And wrong, as usual."

Argus glared daggers at him as the Wolf gave him a low menacing growl.

"Now," Sester grinned with satisfaction, "that was the Wolf."

Argus took two steps, closing the distance between them in a heartbeat. He was so close, Sester could feel the heat of anger rising from his opponent and his breath, like hot flames against his face.

"You may think baiting the Wolf is amusing." Argus's voice was low and as sharp as a double-edged blade.

"It will kill you," said Avon.

Argus punctuated that statement by pulling his lips back and baring his teeth. Sester found it fascinating. The effect of that menacing act, a combination of the Wolf and Argus, made it seem as if some of his teeth were pointed and sharper, just like a real wolf. His eyes blinked. In reality, they were normal. This was interesting.

"The Wolf may kill you, but I can do far worse." Argus's voice had the effect of a blade slashing down, stopping just short of cutting his throat. The air was electric with tension that made their hair stand on end.

"Oh, I don't doubt that." Sester gave him an unconcerned smile. "But you won't. Yet."

Cally glared at him. "One of these days, you'll find the limit is much closer than you think."

"I doubt that."

Argus decided to ignore him. "Cally, how is Avon? What was the emergency?"

"The poison is no longer responding to the Shade injections."

"What? Why didn't you tell me?"

"Avon…"

Avon explained, "I asked her not to inform you."

"But that's…Avon!" He blew out a frustrated breath. "I need to know things like that."

"Do you have the antidote?"

"Of course not! But…"

"Then there was no point in telling you."

Argus had strong objections to that logic but there were more important matters, such as the real possibility of Avon dying. "What can we do?"

"Go to Tingash."

There were shocked faces.

Jenna asked, "But isn't that the mutoid research facility?"

"I was captured there," said Argus.

"There are base elements of Shade that bear a resemblance to the blood protein nutrients used by mutoids."

"You're saying Shade has a connection to the mutoids? And the Federation might be behind it?" Argus was instantly in tactical mode.

"It's not out of the question," said Jenna.

Cally said, "Jenna's right. If the Federation is behind Shadow…"

Sester was in full analyzing mode. "It sounds logical, except for one glaring fact."

Avon nodded. "Why would the Federation be fighting itself?"

"Exactly. Though…" A cynical grin lifted the corners of his mouth. "I can think of one reason."

"It's all an act."

Everyone turned to see Vila and Corinne standing at the doorway. Vila said, "Don't you see? It's devious. Just like the Federation."

"I don’t get it," said Argus.

"That's because you're not," said Sester.

Grrr.

"Will someone tell me before I get a headache?" asked Argus.

Cally said, "Yes, I would like to know too."

Avon faced Argus. "The Federation fought the Terra Nostra. But they ran the Terra Nostra."

"Oh. You mean, the people behind Shade look like they're fighting the Terra Nostra, but they're both being run by the Federation?"

Jenna's face paled. "I was…working for the Federation all along?"

Argus looked down at the floor. "There's something else all of you have to know."

Chapter Two

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

Observations about Weapon

2009-10-31T17:10:13Z

I'm in another one of those moods...so be warned.

I do love Weapon because it's yet more instances of how completely unintelligent Blake is and how the only way he manages to succeed at all is by sheer dumb luck.

1) Blake and Jenna laugh at Avon

Ok, what is there to laugh at exactly?

Gan, on blind faith and no evidence of using his brain at all, is gung ho to jump when Blake snaps his fingers.
Avon, thinks about it carefully and weighs all the angles and dangers. When the alarm is raised, he, after careful thinking, decides that it is worth going to take a look, on the condition that the Federation is not there.

Does this sound gung ho at all? It sounds like a man, who after careful consideration, decides on a course of action.

So why are Jenna and Blake laughing at Avon and accusing him of being gung ho, just like Gan?

It's no wonder Avon has very little respect for the people on the ship, especially Blake.

2) Avon thinks the basic idea of attacking the Weapons facility is a stupid one. (I love that in the final "Blake" episode, Deva also considers Blake's actions stupid and will get people killed. Avon isn't the only one who thinks that of Blake and thinks there is something wrong with it.) Blake disagrees and says the idea was logical enough.

That statement of Blake's had me in stitches.

Avon points out that since this is the Weapons Development Base, it must be one of the best defended installations in the Federation.

ORAC suggests that the best place to get weapons is everywhere except the Weapons Development Base.

To which Blake says, "Agreed. Even so."

Hm, let me get this right, Blake's idea of logic is to say....yes, this must be one of the most dangerous places in the Federation to go, SO?

So if Blake agrees this is the one of the most dangerous places, what exactly is his idea of logic?

Could it be something like this?
Monkey needs weapons, Monkey sees shiny weapons, Monkey goes gets shiny weapons.

This is the simplistic logic of a child who doesn't think about consequences, only getting what he wants.

Even Blake's crew thinks its stupid, when they think more about it later.

GAN That doesn't sound very promising. Someone must have made an attack on the base.
VILA Who'd be stupid enough to do that?
AVON [Snaps his fingers] Justify "stupid."

I love that exchange. Who is that stupid? Uh, name starts with a 'B'.

And I love what Jenna says in this exchange:
BLAKE What do you think, Jenna?
AVON I think the basic idea was stupid.
BLAKE No, the idea was logical enough. Jenna?
JENNA A lot more logical than this makes it seem.

Bwahaha. So obviously, when Blake presented his idea to Jenna, it was the simplistic version without any thinking or any relevant details other than "here is base with weapons, lets go get weapons".

What Jenna is saying is that, yeah, it was logical (according to Blake's idea of logic), but not if you actually look at any facts. So even if she brainlessly followed Blake in laughing at Avon, she obviously thinks Blake's reasoning is faulty.

Love Avon, Vila and Jenna. And ORAC. They obviously think only a (in Vila's words) stupid person would consider this a 'logical' idea.

But Blake strutts around arrogantly thinking he's clever and more logical than Avon? Can someone pleeease borrow Travis and point him at Blake?

3) Logic, thy name is not Blake.
Ok, the Weapon's Development Base goes on alert. The more logical assumption, which all of them make (other than Cally) is that someone was stupid enough to break in to the base.

Blake's logic goes like this...
"Assume a fugitive from the Weapons Development Base, and a stolen ship capable of one-man operation. Assume no outside help. Where would he go? Orac, I want a series of options rated according to probability. Oh, and one more assumption: when he left, he took with him something secret and valuable."

Let me get this right, Blake is automatically assuming that a single person, working alone with a small ship, expects to steal something really valuable from one of the most dangerous bases in the Federation and escape without any help?

Ok, is it just me but does that sounds like only a crazy man would be doing that?

Blake doesn't ask Zen to check out any of the much more logical possibilities, only the idea that some insane person escaped from the base.

Either Blake had inside knowledge or he was once again incredibly lucky to meet someone even stupider than he was.

4) Luck is a substitute for intelligence, if you're Blake

The crew discovers IMIPAK, Servalan and Travis on the planet.

Servalan lets him go, even though Avon warns him that this is a trap.

Blake gets back to the ship and decides the best way to survive is to hide behind the planet.

Um, Avon points out that would only work if it was a primitive signal.

It's obvious that in their day and age, something like going behind a planet will not stop a weapon. But isn't this supposed to be a really advanced, secret weapon? What is the chance that it would use a signal so primitive that the easiest way to defeat it is to "get behind it" or "hide behind something"? Remember that this is supposedly a weapon that Servalan is confident will be able to kill anyone, anywhere in the galaxy.

And Blake was totally, absolutely wrong again. His "logic" was completely erroneous.

It's clear from what Servalan says to Travis later that she expected Blake to do something that stupid, and that the weapon was in no way hampered by having the ship 'hide' behind the planet. She tells Travis that once Blake makes his dumb move, Travis can go ahead and kill him with IMIPAK.

But the clone and Rashell intervene and take the projector.

The unfortunate thing is that the crew thinks Blake was smart and saved them. They don't realize that his stupidity nearly got them killed again and they were only saved by luck.

Avon was right, the only chance they had at all was to kill Servalan on the planet.

Servalan played Blake like the fool she knew he was. He just got lucky the clone stepped in and took the weapon from her and seeded the mines.

Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire, Part 4

2009-10-31T15:58:33Z

Rating: PG+
Genre: Angst, Drama

Mornings can bring a new perspective or solutions to problems that seemed hopeless the day before. Kali wished she had one of those mornings but today wasn't one of them. There was a solution, but it was a 'lesser of two evils' kind of solution.

Kali leaned hard on the cabin buzzer, pressing several times in quick succession. The empty officer's corridor was sombre and the bland grey walls seemed to whisper their disapproval of her audacity.

A lowly ensign shouldn't be making a personal call on the Captain's cabin or disturbing him this early in the morning, but for her, no rules of protocol were more important than saving Adrian's life.

The door slid open and bleary eyes blinked at her. "Tranton. This had better be good." Captain Tarn smothered a yawn and rubbed his thinning brown hair. "And short. I just woke up and I haven't had coffee." Any rational person who valued her life would see the big red warning flag, apologize profusely for her impudence and backed away, bowing and scraping.

"It's important, sir."

Her earnest grey eyes made Tarn wince. He hung the towel around his neck. "Let me guess, this is about Lt. Stannis?"

Kali met his eyes squarely, a cocktail of accusation and challenge in her voice. "Is he already dead to you, sir?"

The Captain's hands tugged on the ends of the towel, not liking the taste of guilt in the morning. "It might be better if he was, for his sake."

"What will they do to him if he doesn't cooperate?"

Tarn sighed tiredly. Kali wasn’t only one who had been spending sleepless nights. "He will cooperate or they will destroy his mind."

"That would be worse than death for him."

"Don't you think I know that?" Tarn blew out a violent breath and his face came closer to hers as he emphasized, "But there's nothing either one of us can do."

"You're wrong."

Tarn looked at her with interest. "You have an idea?"

**********

Captain Tarn abhorred visiting the Security Section of his own ship. It was where his vile first officer held court and abused his crew. A contingent of his own black-clad guards waited behind him, phaser rifles at the ready.

Tarn understood the need for discipline but he didn't approve of the sadistic pleasure Barker and his people seemed to take in it. As Captain, he tried to limit the use of discipline as much as possible, preferring to work things out using other means, but there were numerous infractions that did not depend on the participation of the Captain.

He paused before opening the door to the interrogation room. The metal barrier, cold and impersonal, kept screams from escaping to the rest of the ship. It also kept behind closed doors, the things that none of them wanted to think about.

Abandon hope all ye who enter. A shudder passed through him, leaving behind an aftertaste of old fears and disgust. He remembered his own run-ins with Security people in his younger days; before he learned how to play the game.

What would he find? He knew some people were never the same after the sessions with the retraining therapists. Adrian had been subjected to them for eight full days. Would there be anything left of him?

Tarn didn't bother announcing his entrance. His personal override code gave him access to every corner of this ship and he fully intended to make his power and authority loud and clear in this room. "Stay here. Wait for my signal," Tarn’s orders were terse as he pressed the required numbers and placed the flat of his hand to the ident-pad.

The door slid open. Tarn nearly gagged at the stench of humanity that rushed out to meet him. He steeled himself and entered, keeping the shock from showing on his face as moans of pleasure, not of pain greeted his ears. His brilliant genius was a pitiful writhing figure sliding in a soup of his own waste. A conditioning unit imprisoned his head as Barker's hands--

Tarn screamed in fury, "Stop it! ALL OF YOU!"

His first officer continued working on Adrian's wriggling body as he turned to his Captain. He kept his voice respectful even though his eyes were not and his actions were calculated as a deliberate rudeness. "I don't think so.” There was a slight insulting pause. “Sir. We are under orders by Admiral Verel."

"I know what his orders are," said Tarn in controlled anger. "You are relieved of your duties in this matter."

Barker lifted his hands from Adrian's body, got up from his tall stool, and wiped his hands on a red-stained cloth. The Therapist stood at attention, hoping he would be considered a minor participant, not worthy to be included in the Captain's anger.

The first officer advanced on the Captain. "You have no right to do that." His face contorted in a sneer. "Not where Security is concerned."

"On the contrary, I think you'll find I have every right." Tarn banged his hand on the door control. The guards rushed in, like a black wave crashing through a suddenly opened barrier, their weapons drawn and grim looks on their faces. All of them had experienced Barker's discipline before and none of them would have been upset if they had to shoot him.

The sight of Adrian's abused body and what was being done to him, made them grip their rifles tightly as they tried not to gag. Undisguised hatred flashed in their eyes.

Tarn's words had the effect of a whip being applied to unprotected flesh. "I am relieving you of authority, first officer. And charging you with acting according to personal interests, not that of the Empire."

"That's ridiculous!" shouted Barker. "I'm only following the Admiral's orders. Breaking this…" His lips thinned in distaste. "…prisoner so he can serve the Empire."

"And have you?" asked the Captain.

"No, but, we're close."

Without the hands feeding the needs of his body, Adrian was still moaning, more now in agony as his fevered mind was caught between desire and anger at his own weakness.

The Captain said with contempt, "I highly doubt that. You've had him eight days." He looked casually over at the readings on the panel. "And you've increased the drugs to a dangerous level, something the Admiral expressly said not to do. You were not to endanger the prisoner's mind. Or did you forget to read that part of his orders?"

The Therapist's voice rose in defence, "I was watching carefully, sir. I would never…"

The Captain turned to him with a rage that made the Therapist step back. "If there is any damage to his mind, your career is over. Flush the drugs from his system. Now."

Tarn tore the conditioning unit from its hinges, sending bits and pieces flying, and threw it on the ground with a crash as the Therapist rushed over to the panel and shoved his assistant out of the way. He worked frantically to follow the Captain's orders.

The first officer was livid. "You can't get away with this, Captain."

"I'm glad you still recognize my rank," Tarn said with icy sarcasm. "Restrain him." He would have preferred tying him up and throwing the detestable man out of the airlock - he suspected the entire crew would be falling over themselves to help - but unfortunately that would be considered an infraction.

The guards gladly followed his orders and bound the first officer's hands behind him with the same manacles he used for Adrian. Barker considered struggling but the look on the guards' faces told him they were only looking for an excuse to hit him in the line of duty.

Captain Tarn said, "Command does not look favourably on people who fail or act in their own interests to the detriment of the Empire."

Barker spat out, "And you think you can do better? What happens when you hand him over and he hasn't agreed to cooperate yet?"

There was a hard, resolute look on Tarn's face. "He's going to." He gestured. "Take the first officer to the brig. Keep two guards on him."

Everyone filed out, leaving the Captain and the, now silent, prisoner on the slab.

Tarn's steps were heavy with guilt as he approached the bound man. His hand brushed back the hair that was plastered to Adrian's face by salty layers of drying sweat. In a whispered voice, he said, "I'm sorry I let this happen. You didn't deserve it."

Tarn grimaced as he lifted Adrian's lids; the man was barely conscious. There was no way to speak to him in this condition.

He had to prove he could produce the results his first officer and all of his thugs couldn't. There was no choice.

Tarn rummaged through the vials of drugs on the side table and filled an injector. He injected a stimulant into Adrian's arm.

Adrian's eyes fluttered and then he gasped and his body arched as liquid energy forced him back to consciousness. He groaned as the agonies of his body made themselves felt.

Tarn said gently. "Adrian, wake up."

The bound man's head moved slightly from side to side, as if he were refusing.

"Lt. Stannis," the Captain's voice became one of command. "You will hear me."

Adrian's eyes opened slowly, blinking at the bright lights overhead. His voice was raspy. "Cap-tain."

Tarn no longer noticed the smells; the stench of his own guilt filled his nostrils. "I'm sorry I let this happen, Stannis. You were right. I was a hypocrite. More concerned about my own career, a career you saved.”

Finally freed from the manipulative drugs, Adrian's mind began to work again. He almost wished it didn't as the fuzzy details of the past week began to crystallize into a sharply focused nightmare. His thorough mind began to process the horror of what they had done to him. His stomach wrenched painfully and he groaned because there was nothing left to throw up.

Tarn placed his hand on the bound man's head, but Adrian flinched away as far as the restraints allowed. He fell back against the metal platform, wheezing and his body sagging in the metal bands, the last of his energy spent.

The Captain lightly touched the metal that bound him to the table and grimaced but dared not remove them. They were caked with Adrian’s blood and his wrists and ankles were raw and bleeding. Without medical aids, they would be painful to remove. Tarn reluctantly left them on. There was something else he had to do. "Kali Tranton has requested a transfer to the C.S.S. Trykor."

Adrian's mind was too exhausted to maintain the façade of the cold, emotionless man. He rasped, "No."

"It's too late. She's offered the services of her psi abilities and the Admiral is interested. "

Adrian's mind was thrown into chaos by powerful emotions he always kept contained because they confused his rational mind.

Tarn paused a moment before he asked, "What do you think will happen to her if you refuse to cooperate?"

Adrian's heart skipped several beats. "I…" He struggled to return to his old, impassive self. "Don't understand."

"I think you do," said Tarn implacably. "She requested the transfer because she wants to help you. She doesn't realize she's giving them a hostage."

A knife of pain plunged through Adrian's defences, ripping out his insides and laying them bare. Kali had been a thin lifeline in the nightmare that threatened to drown him, but they were taking that away too. His will, his dignity, his mind and now the only thread of hope.

He felt as helpless and exposed as he had the past week and Captain Tarn was as cruel a tormentor as Barker and the Therapist had been.

"She…means…" Adrian fought to push unwanted feelings away. "Nothing."

They weren't taking Kali away, they were making her a part of the nightmare.

"You know they will use her to pressure you, and you know what that means."

I feel nothing. Sentiment is weakness. "She's…nothing to me."

"You won't mind if I give her to Barker then? I believe she's on her shift." Tarn headed slowly to the door and hesitated before he activated the control. He silently willed the stubborn man to answer. For a moment, he wondered if Kali had misjudged Adrian.

A hoarse voice whispered behind him, painful surrender in a single word, "Wait."

Captain Tarn's head bent in anguish.

Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire, Part 3

2009-10-31T15:54:04Z

Rating: PG+
Genre: Drama
Warning for torture in the last scene.

To reassure those who expressed concern, I am actively working on the next story, Tingash, though I am still on the planning stages for some of the details. Those who wish to take a more active part, feel free to add suggestions. You have jaxomsride to thank for the overall idea of the Tingash story.

For those who were interested, here are the next chapters of the Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire story. This tale is somewhat different. Even though I have adapted several B7 characters, they are different and this is not fanfic. This was originally an exercise in improving writing style, specifically with layering details and using active voice. So this one is not quite the same as my PGP stories, though you will begin to see the improvement in style 'bleeding' into those stories.

The mess hall was a crowded, elbows-required-for-movement place at this hour. People rushed about ordering, eating and disposing of breakfast. The scrape of chairs and the busy roar of animated conversations covered any whispered words but it didn't stop Bryce's eyes from darting left and right like a nervous mouse in a cat enclosure.

He bent close, his hastily folded-up sleeve almost dipping into his steaming mug of coffee. "I'd like to help, Kali. Really I would."

Then why did I have to chase you all over the ship just to talk to you? Kali took a sip of her own coffee to maintain a semblance of normalcy. She'd finally cornered Bryce in mid-bite over breakfast. His half-eaten butter and jam smothered toast lay discarded on the plate. "We have to help him."

Bryce would have preferred having this talk in the remotest corner of the ship, or not at all. The thought of Adrian in Security Section, with the therapists, chilled him in places that no fires could ever warm.

There was no way he was going to end up there. He'd already helped enough the other day, hadn't he? He wasn't even sure why he'd done such a foolish thing but Kali was a pretty face and Adrian, the cold-hearted bastard wasn't all-bad.

No one deserved the therapists. Bryce had heard some rumours told 'below ranks'. They had something special planned for the stubborn genius. That was never a good sign. 'Special' in Security Section usually meant you would come back out in pieces, sometimes literally.

What could he, a lowly weapon's specialist, do? Better to stay out of it. Keep his head down the way he usually did. Pretend that he was blind, deaf and amazingly stupid at all the right times. "There's nothing we can do short of breaking him out and I'm NOT helping you do that."

Kali's heart fell. It felt as if he'd just shoved her out in the cold and shut the door in her face. She stared into the black murky depths of her coffee mug, wracking her brain for some way to convince Bryce to help. His help the other day had been unexpected and she had fooled herself that it might meant something more. Obviously it didn't, at least not enough to continue sticking his neck out.

A grey-clad tech with a breakfast-laden tray, mainly meat on meat, accidentally bumped Bryce's chair from behind, causing him to yelp like a mouse whose tail had been caught in a trap. The broad-shouldered youth, Sanderson, a sanitation engineer by trade - in the Empire that meant he took out the better trash of the officers - laughed and asked sarcastically, "Caught with your hand in the wrong pocket again, Bryce?"

"Yeah, yeah, we'll see whose laughing next time I take you to the cleaners."

"You're lucky I have double-shift today." Sanderson, juggling his tray precariously as a fellow sanitation engineer bumped him in the arm. "I'm eating in my cabin," he grumbled. "Too many people. Later, loser."

"That's rich from someone who hasn't won yet," Bryce shouted after Sanderson's retreating back.

Kali's brows knitted. "Why are you taking him to the sanitation department?"

"Eh?" Bryce stared blankly at her.

"The cleaners. You said you were taking him to the cleaners."

He eyed her suspiciously, wondering if she could be pulling his leg. "You really are alien, aren't you? Or you've led a very sheltered life."

Kali sighed and wondered if she would ever understand all the complex Earth social rituals and slang. "Another Terran custom?"

One reason why she liked Adrian was they were both outsiders. Adrian wasn't much into normal social interactions. He found them a waste of time. It made him an alien amongst his own people.

"Yeah, it means I'm going to wipe the floor with him at poker." He fluttered his fingers lightly in anticipation of drawing the winning hand.

"I…see," she said slowly, not really seeing at all but wanting to continue with their interrupted conversation. "What you said earlier, about breaking Adrian out…"

The combination weapon specialist, thief and cardsharp eyed her warily. "Don't even think it. They'll be on you faster than you can blink."

"Bryce, you know what they're doing to him."

"Yeah, well, I don't think I wanna to know. It's safer that way." He stuffed a ragged edge of toast into his mouth, biting a piece off and chewing as if it took all of his attention.

"They want to break his will. They'll do anything...." Her voice trailed off and there was a slight tremor to her lips as she thought about the last five days. It had been that long since Adrian disappeared into the abyss that was Security Section.

For her, it had been five hellish days of pain and overpowering sensations that were not her own. Her psi senses and connection to Adrian enabled her to feel a small fraction of what he was experiencing.

Periods of intense pain brought tears to her eyes. There were strange urges and sensations that were confusing but told her terrible things were being done to him.

She had to reinforce her mental shields but enough seeped through the cracks of her concentration, especially when she was thinking about him, which seemed to be constantly.

"I can't sit by," she whispered fiercely. "I have to do something. Even if you won't."

"There's nothing you can do, Kali." Bryce put a restraining hand on her forearm. "You have to face it. No one can defy the Empire or escape it. It's impossible."

"The rebels do it all the time."

"Shhh." Bryce looked around in alarm. He felt as if someone had turned on a spotlight right at them. His voice dropped lower. "Are you trying to get us killed? I knew you were crazy. I didn't know you were suicidal."

Kali withdrew her arm from his grasp. "You don't have to help."

"I wasn't planning to." He looked down at his unappetizingly cold toast and coffee. "Don't think I'm hungry anymore either." Bryce gathered his things and picked up his tray. "I like you, Kali. I don't want to to see you getting hurt. It's impossible to break Adrian out of Security Section and even if you did, where would you go? There isn't anywhere on the ship you could hide him. He can't escape. He'll have to give them what they want eventually. You might as well…"

She cut him off. "Face facts? That's just like Adrian. He doesn't like doing the impossible. He considers it a waste of time. But he's fighting them now."

"Then he must have lost his mind." A dark cloud seemed to pass over Bryce's face and his eyes looked down at the food he was about to throw away. "And if he hasn't, then they'll do it for him. Don’t make the same mistake, Kali. It isn't worth it."

Kali's face was hard. "That's because you've never had anyone you cared about more than yourself."

"Ouch. I'll ignore that, even if it is true. But, Kali," he leaned forward. "Are you sure he cares about you? This is Adrian we’re talking about."

**********

That night, Kali lay on her bunk, her sleepless eyes searching the dull grey ceiling for inspiration. Cabins for ensigns were cramped affairs, little larger than her closet back on Tellar, but at least they did have their own, unlike the lower ranks.

She rolled restlessly, trying to find a comfortable position, but it was like having an itch that couldn't be reached. The white institutional sheets scraped roughly against her skin. Was it possible to get sheet burn? She might find out tonight.

Was Bryce right? Could nothing be done?

Trying to break Adrian out while they were stuck on the ship was an insane idea. There was nowhere they could go and no place to hide him.

The unremarkable grey walls seemed to be closing in on her as she considered each option and discarded them.

She could feel Adrian continuing to struggle, but fear gripped him now and hopelessness.

He was weakening with each passing hour. Unlike her, he was not given the luxury of rest. He had been strong at the beginning but these people were cruel and had the relentless tenacity of pit bulls with their teeth sunk into the throats of their victim. They would not release him until every drop of life had been drained from his body and soul.

Kali knew Adrian’s rational mind would tell him it was a losing battle. He should not be subjecting himself to something that could be avoided.

Adrian was the most pragmatic man she knew. He fought battles he had a chance to win and he knew the value of tactical withdrawal.

Then why was he fighting the inevitable?

Was it hope? It didn't seem possible. Adrian had lost faith in that concept a long time ago.

Was he making a personal stand? This was even stranger. Adrian didn't believe in anything and he did not make pointless gestures.

Even with her psi advantage, Adrian was still as much of mystery to her as he was to everyone else. And to her, a constant pleasant surprise.

This man who had lost faith in everyone and everything, was fighting for a reason.

Kali steeled herself as she lowered her mental shields just a little. A howl of agony washed towards her and she clamped a hand over her mouth to stifle a responding cry. Her shields slammed shut, her heart pounded wildly and she was breathing heavily, like someone who had reached the moment of truth in a marathon.

I have to do something.

How could she sleep knowing what he was going through?

There might be something. She might not be able to break him out, but she might be able to help him a little.

Among her own people, there was a way to send healing vibrations to someone who was in distress. Would it work with humans? There was only one way to find out.

Kali's hands balled into tight fists and her face tensed, a fighter preparing for battle.

Have to remain strong. Stay in control. She wished she hadn't slacked off with her Tellaran mental exercises. In a ship full of humans, there hadn't seemed to be any great urgency and she'd become lazy.

She lowered the shields a smidgeon, much less than the last time. A blast of pain struck her like a fist, but this time it was manageable and she let it wash over her. Her fists tightened further, nails digging into her palms. Lungs panted with the effort and sweat beaded on her forehead.

Focus.

Kali gathered her strength and all of the positive feelings she could muster and, as the Tellaran healer had taught her, launched it towards Adrian, like a life raft to a drowning man.

She lingered a little longer, hoping to sense any indication that it made a difference. Her shields clamped down quickly as she felt her concentration flagging and a scream shaped her lips. Her eyes remained closed for a few minutes as a trickle of perspiration rolled down over her nose.

Was she able to help him? She wanted to believe it did; it was the only thing she could do for him.

**********

Adrian's mouth opened in a pantomime of a scream. Blood slid down a raw throat that could only produce strangled sounds, giving a metallic liquid taste that would never touch a parched tongue.

Drugs snaked their way mercilessly through his body. Pain, like a roaring fire, consumed him from the inside, as if he were being burned alive. His body strained upwards; a bow pulled tight, ready to snap. His limbs slipped and flailed on the slick surface of the frigid metal platform; wet with his own bodily secretions. Sweat and blood mingled, drawing nightmarish trails down his body. Globs of vomit, dried at the side of his face and by his head. Sticky patches of dark red streaked with bright scarlet, pale white trails of semen and the acrid yellow of urine.

The Therapist and his people were black masked executioners, taking him apart piece-by-piece, filtered from the stomach-churning smells as they plied their inhuman trade. The only one who had to bear the stench was the prisoner; a constant, repulsive reminder that in this room he was nothing more than a helpless prisoner wallowing in his own filth.

Adrian's eyes began rolling up into his head as the darkness of unconsciousness mercifully paid a visit.

The Therapist had been watching for this. He signalled with a flat hand to his assistant at the control panel. "That's enough. Flood him with the neutralizer. Quickly."

Adrian slumped back onto the cold, damp surface, his lungs heaving like someone who had had been running for his life.

The Therapist looked down at the panel. The life signs were faint, the mental readings sluggish; all the classic signs of a man pushed beyond his ability to resist. He was finally ready for the conditioning. The conditioning unit was swung into place, shrouding the prisoner's head in a large helmet-like device, and switched it on.

The irresistible boom of conditioning phrases blasted into Adrian's ears, "The Empire must be served", along with the more insidious subliminal messages whispered to his subconscious mind. Energy waves forced his mind to match specific patterns. His head felt as if it were in a vice, and his tormentors were medieval torturers intent on squeezing until it cracked like an egg. Images fed directly through his optic nerve, overriding memories, seeking to remake his past and his present, and to control his future.

Adrian shook his head weakly from side-to-side, moaning, knowing they were manipulating his mind but unable to do anything about it. There was a pounding beat inside his head. Like the sound of a heart amplified a thousand times. Boom. Boom. Boom.

An irrational fear struck him. If his heart matched the rhythm of the booms, then he would be lost. Boom. Boom. Boom. He could no longer hear the beating of his own heart, no distinctive sound that was his own. No! Dry lips cracked as he screamed in silent agony.

A shuddering gasp escaped his lips as something pleasant and comforting flowed into his mind. Weak and human after all, he reached for it, desperate for warmth and kindness but he drew back. It's a lie!

Life taught him that behind the soft-lined glove was usually an iron fist to smash him in the face.

Pleasure and then pain. Kindness and then cruelty. The illusion of love masking a face distorted in hate. That was what they taught him in this room.

Boom. Boom. Thump thump. Adrian's eyes widened inside the conditioning unit. He could hear his own heart again. Or was it an illusion too?

The warmth continued to flow into him but he knew what it was, it would not fool him. Except there was something different about it.

It was pure and beautiful, full of strength, caring, and peace. Adrian's breath caught. He recognized it.

The Therapist scratched his greying hair. Adrian continued defying his efforts despite everything he threw at him. The man should be a blubbering idiot by now, willing to do anything to make the pain and humiliation end. The specialist's advanced techniques were not going to get him noticed after all. No one paid attention when something didn't work.

Adrian was finally weak enough for the maximum effect of the conditioning unit, but it was slow going, the man's mind was unusually strong.

The Therapist whacked the side of the panel, startling the med tech monitoring the screens.

How could this be? The prisoner still had enough strength to resist the conditioning.

The life and brain wave readings on the control panel were frustrating. Physically, Adrian was on the verge of collapse. Only the drugs kept him from passing out or his heart from stopping.

The disruptor machines made it impossible for him to concentrate for any length of time. His body was flooded with drugs that intensified emotional responses and visceral sensations; making him an unwilling slave to every touch on his body and taking every sliver of pain, fear, humiliation and helplessness and magnifying it to the point where he should have lost all hope and begged for it to stop.

Adrian was beginning his silent screams again and pulling against the metal bands that held him fast. The Therapist was extremely displeased. This man should not be able to fight the machine's efforts to override his mind, but the readings did not lie.

He doubled the dosage of drugs and looked down at the struggling man. One technique was proving quite effective. The combination of physical pleasure and the torture of the mind produced conflicting signals that made the conditioning much harder to fight. He began to caress the body tenderly, giving it all of his attention, and was rewarded with a reddening flush and a slight relaxing of the muscles. Perhaps, his efforts were not totally in vain. He still had a chance to break this man before the Admiral's men go their hands on him.

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 34 (End)

2009-10-30T20:32:33Z

Category: Drama, Romance
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: The bonding.

Note: We've reach the end of this story with a celebration.

We have added a Wolf, even if it is only in Argus's head. Avon is adjusting well to being without sight, but there is hope. Of course, he still has other physical problems that will have to be resolved. This will be the focus of the next story when they go back to Tingash.

Jenna is not adjusting well to coming back and no longer being one of the most important people on the ship.

Servalan's plans have received a big blow. It couldn't happen to a nicer tyrant.

Each person on the ship discovered some things about themselves that will have continued repercussions.

Vila and Corinne are preparing another spectacular show.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Four

Next Chapter

Argus felt much better. Or rather, he didn’t feel like dying, the Wolf was no longer howling and whimpering inside his head – who knew the creature was such a wimp when it came to hangovers (grrrr) – though he couldn’t feel anything above the neck. He wasn’t sure if that was a good sign but he was glad the pain was gone.

He studied himself in the reflective surface, straightening the collar, needlessly brushing the sleeves and breathing deeply. The dark navy dress uniform with mandarin collars and fringed in silver, courtesy of Reya, was an Athol one with Commander markings.

I can do this. He took in a deep calming breath, determined to do his best for Reya.

“How do you feel?” she came to stand beside him, slipping her arm around his waist as she studied their reflections. She was in a similar uniform and her face had a slightly modified look of the makeover with more subdued colours.

“Like my first day on parade.” He hugged her closer and marvelled how perfectly they fit together.

“I know you’re nervous.”

“I haven’t managed to say anything wrong yet at least.” There was a wry grin on his face.

She leaned her head on his shoulder. “You’ll do fine.”

“You would say that even if I fell flat on my face.”

“I’m nervous too.”

Argus’s brows lifted. “You?”

“It’s a big responsibility.” The warmth and solidity of his body made Reya feel as if they could face anything together.

“Should I lose some weight?”

Reya smiled. “Don’t change anything.”

“Not even my tendency to put my foot in my mouth around you?”

“That’s one of your many endearing qualities.”

Argus sighed and turned to look into her eyes. They were a great deal softer today than they normally were. “You’re wonderful.”

“That’s the alcohol talking.”

“Probably.”

She gave him a playful punch on the arm. "Ouch."

The door chime sounded. A muffled voice said, “Commanders, its time.”

**********

They walked side-by-side, automatically in step, to the bonding hall. Lt. Dain had gone on ahead to set things in motion.

Reya looked down at their matching booted feet. "We're marching."

Argus looked down too as they rounded a corner and the wide double doors of the hall appeared at the end of the corridor. "Yes?"

She sighed. "Nothing." They were both life-time soldiers, it was natural.

His hand reached for hers as they neared the doorway. Lt. Dain, who looked very handsome and serious in his own uniform, was waiting for them.

"Can't we go in together?" asked Argus, whose stomach was doing somersaults.

"It's tradition."

He sighed. "I don't like tradition." The Wolf sniffed in agreement.

"It's only for a few minutes." She squeezed his hand before she let go. "Lt. Dain."

Dain stood at attention, gave them the Athol military salute of fist over heart, and bowed. "Commanders. It's an honour sirs. I wish you both light in the darkness and hearts that are forever young."

"That's much appreciated, Lieutenant." Reya acknowledged the Athol blessing and returned one in reply. "And may you find your own light."

Dain nodded formally.

"That's nice, Dain. I never knew you were a poet," said Argus.

"He's an artist," said Reya.

Dain cleared his throat in embarrassment. "I wouldn't know about that, sir."

"Yes, I remember the art lesson in the cargo hold." There was a light teasing grin on Argus's face.

"I think, they're all waiting for you, sirs." The tips of Dain's ears were starting to take on a reddish tinge. "We'd better go in."

Argus took a deep breath, held it for a few seconds and let it out slowly. "Let's do this then." He took Reya's hand and pressed his lips to it. "I'll see you on the other side."

**********

A hush descended over the packed cargo hold as Argus and Reya appeared on opposite sides of the room, ready to begin a walk that would bring them together in the centre. On a raised platform stood Admiral Tarkov in full military dress, the front of his uniform a sea of colourful campaign and honour ribbons. The room was draped in light and dark blue fabrics, with bits of silver glinting like bright stars.

The crew stood as one as the sombre music began and the two Commanders walked towards the platform. Their eyes were only for each other as all eyes were focused on them. Shadows danced merrily along the walls in celebration.

Argus and Reya reached the platform together, hands reaching out for each other as if they were magnets naturally drawn together. A peal of bright bells tinkled when their hands touched. It was a moment of truth that made everyone draw in bated breaths.

They ascended the few steps, two strong individuals already joined together, a formidable bulwark against the coming storms. At the top they faced the Admiral, their eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Cally and Avon sat in the front and she conveyed the details to him as they occurred.

* They're handsome together. I wish you could see them, Avon. They're both wearing the navy blue and silver uniform of Athol. *

* Appropriate. *

The Admiral raised his hands above their heads. "Please be seated."

Everyone took their seats, their eyes intent on the platform.

"I have known Drel Argus for a long time. He is an honourable man. A brave man. A leader of men. Very few can stand against him and win. But most of all, he is a man of compassion and integrity who would be the first to rush to anyone's aid."

Avon remarked to Cally, * Another idealistic dreamer. *

* You mean, like Blake? Is that why you like Argus? *

He turned his head towards her. * I don't believe 'like' was in my description. *

* Wait a moment. * Cally's 'eyes' opened up inside Avon's head and blinked. * You knew Argus first. You were drawn to him from the beginning. Is that…* Her eyes were deep in thought. *…why you believed in Blake? Despite your conflicts with him? *

* You are surmising I was subconsciously 'looking' for Jack? Interesting theory. *

* And your constant conflict with Blake was because of the ways he wasn't like Jack. *

* An unsubstantiated theory at best. *

* You're not saying it's an improbable one? *

* Anything is possible. *

The Admiral continued, "I don't know you Commander Reve but from the little Argus has told me, you appear to be a legendary creature who couldn't possibly be real." He smiled on them both with fondness. "But from my own observations, you are a perfect match. You are people of strength and integrity and your love for each other is true. So it is my pleasure to perform this bonding ceremony for you."

Kirsten sat in the second row with Sester. Occasionally she would glance over at his reaction but his face gave away nothing. He seemed amused, but then he usually did.

Vila and Corinne sat near them, their hands joined and eyes glistening. She leaned against him.

"Reya Reve and Drel Argus. These are my words of blessing and bonding for you." The Admiral's voice was grave but there was affection in his eyes. "May your lives be graced with good health. May you always find happiness in your journeys. May you be a refuge for each other from the storms of life. May your love grow ever stronger as you share your lives together, and may your future be even more wonderful than you dreamed possible."

He paused and nodded to Argus.

Argus took Reya's right hand and placed it over his heart. "Reya, I offer myself to be bonded to you. You are my better half. The greatest joy of my life. You are the light in my darkness, without you, my life would not be worth living. All I have is myself. It's not much but it is all yours if you'll have me."

Reya took Argus's other hand and placed it over her heart. "I do." She squeezed his hand. "Argus, I offer myself to be bonded to you. I never thought I would be able to find anyone I could give my life to. I never expected that someone like you could exist. You make me complete. With you, I feel that we can do anything and face all dangers together without fear. You make me a better person than I am. The fire of your passion inspires me. I may have many things that others may consider valuable, but in my eyes, they pale in comparison next to you. All I have and all I am, I offer up to you, if you'll have me."

Argus felt the start of a howl at the base of his throat and squashed it before it could emerge. His eyes seemed to be having trouble focusing, Reya's face was slightly blurry. "With all my heart."

One's eyes are wet, said the Wolf.

No, they're not.

The Admiral announced, "Then by the authority invested in me as the senior official of a ship in space, I declare that Reya Reve and Drel Argus are bonded. And if anyone dares tear them apart, they will answer to me."

The room erupted in cheers and shouts of elation as everyone rose to their feet, throwing bright streamers high into the air that burst into a rainbow of colours. Eyes were moist with tears of joy and everyone rushed forward to congratulate the happy couple.

The Wolf lifted its head and let off a full-throated howl of joy that filled the room and echoed through the corridors of the ship.

---------- THE END ----------

Next Story: Tingash

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Four

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire, Part 2

2009-10-30T01:16:35Z

Rating: Adult
Genre: Drama
Warning for torture (scene at the end)

Captain Tarn turned off his screen and looked up as two burly security personnel brought Adrian into his office. They roughly shoved the blank-faced, shackled man into the room and stood on either side of him, like two walls of muscle ready to crush him at a moment's notice.

Keeping his face neutral was an effort even as Tarn grimaced inside, but he was a senior officer in the Confederated Empire; he had become quite adept at never revealing his true feelings. Especially not in the presence of his first officer who stood by his desk with an insufferably smug look on his face.

The restraints were an unnecessary precaution. Adrian was hardly dangerous, nor could he go anywhere. Of course, it wasn't necessity or security that motivated Sub-Commander Barker.

"You can go." Tarn waved his hand dismissively at Barker and his 'security' personnel. "I'll handle this."

As Barker contemplated Adrian's expressionless face and stiffly correct posture, his tongue passed across his lips like a hungry man anticipating a long awaited meal. "Are you sure, sir? He's a tough one."

Tarn fixed his first officer with a glare that demanded respect and a voice that gave the effect of a sharp blade being unsheathed. "Are you saying that I need you to handle my own officers, Barker?" Tarn might be the captain of a science ship but he was, without a doubt, the captain of the vessel.

For a few moments, the first officer stared back unflinchingly. He was a martinet with the power he yielded and wasn't used to someone intimidating him, but the look in the captain's eyes made him hesitate. This was the only person on the ship who could order him to undergo retraining, and he knew the Captain wouldn't hesitate if he felt Barker was challenging his authority.

The first officer looked away, rather than down, backing away from a direct challenge but not by much. He said with stiff formality, "Of course not, sir." Realizing it might be misconstrued; Barker added hastily, "I mean you're the Captain. I would never suggest otherwise."

"I hope not." Tarn paused for effect and said in a steely voice, "For your sake. Now leave us."

Barker looked with undisguised regret at Adrian. He had been looking forward to giving this man an unpleasant time; he had something very special planned for him. A new retraining procedure he couldn't wait to test-drive on his least favourite person on the ship. “As you wish, Captain.” The first officer sneered at Adrian. "I'll be waiting outside." Barker turned on his heels and took the two security men with him.

After the unwelcome contingent left, Tarn regarded Adrian with interest. His science officer had not said a word since entering. Nor had he given any indication that he was alive and not some statue that one could never expect to have any expression.

“Stannis.”

The statue unfroze and spoke, his voice as formal as his posture, “Sir.”

Tarn flicked on his monitor screen and recalled the command dispatch that ordered Adrian to report to the Trykor. “What am I going to do with you?”

“My answer has not changed.” The shackles bit tightly into his wrists but Adrian's face remained impassive, refusing to acknowledge the pain.

The Captain sighed heavily. “I know it hasn’t. You’re a stubborn man, Stannis. You always have been. And a constant pain in my side.” He smirked slightly. “But even more of one in our first officer’s.”

“The man’s a fool,” said Adrian.

Tarn glanced at the closed door through which the ‘fool’ had just left. “Yes, but he’s a fool with power, and those are the most dangerous kind. You have to be more diplomatic, Stannis and careful.”

“I have no interest in humouring bullies.”

“Unfortunately, this one has a great deal of interest in you.”

Adrian had been staring ahead without expression but now he looked at Tarn. “Is there anything you can do about the orders?”

Tarn shook his head. “I’m sorry. I’m just the Captain of an insignificant science vessel; I don’t have any power in this.”

“You owe me.”

“I know. If I could help you, I would, but my hands are tied. The admiral wants you. I don't dare defy him.”

Adrian levelled a long, fixed glare at him but didn't say anything.

The Captain squirmed uncomfortably. This cold man's look could make someone feel naked and exposed. And guilty.

He said again, "I'm sorry, Adrian." It felt lame and inadequate as the words came out. Even the use of the more personal first name didn't make him feel any less a traitor. "I know you saved my career. If it weren't for you…"

They both knew why Adrian was in trouble now.

The Empire had little patience with those who did not produce results. Being an exploration vessel assigned to a barren area of space with almost nothing worth exploring wasn't an acceptable excuse. At Tarn's request - more like a desperate plea - Adrian had excelled himself and produced something out of nothing, a breakthrough in technology to increase the range of their scanners. That had satisfied the ghouls that demanded results. At least until the next yearly review.

None of the crew knew. Adrian preferred that no one ever find out. It would spoil his image of the self-serving loner.

Adrian wasn't surprised at this turn of events. It was the story of his life. All human beings were treacherous creatures who would betray you the moment the risk outweighed the benefits to themselves. He was a fool, and his life was one big exercise in irony. His greatest wish now was to live the rest of his life in a place devoid of human beings, assuming he survived.

He suddenly had an overwhelming desire to get out of this room. He would rather face Barker than continue to be in the same room with another person who had betrayed him.

Adrian's voice was like slivers of ice that burrowed into Tarn's flesh as he said in a dead voice, "Are you finished with me?"

Tarn winced as the slivers hit home and burrowed straight to his burdened heart. "Don’t say it like that."

The voice of the dead intoned, "How would you like me to say it?" He added in a tone that made Tarn feel as if his entire family had been insulted. "Sir?"

The Captain said defensively, "I'm not like Barker."

Adrian's throat was tight with controlled anger, "No." Barker doesn't hide what he is. "I'd like to go now."

The Captain hesitated for a moment, wondering if he should tell Adrian the truth about what was happening. He owed him that much at least. Better to find out from him than Barker. "Admiral Verel knows what you did on the neutron wave project."

Adrian started and for a brief moment, his eyes reflected uncertainty. Unconsciously, he began kneading his wrist with his right thumb.

They finally found out the project failed because he sabotaged the test results. The 'loud' and very embarrassing failure had resulted in assignment to a ship that plied the ends of nowhere.

His collar suddenly seemed like a noose that was tightening around his neck. The very air pressed down on his body, squeezing him on every side, making each breath a conscious effort.

The future he thought he had finally made for himself was being taken away at the blink of someone else's eye. The person he thought he might be able to spend that future with, would be better off never knowing him.

His voice was toneless and his eyes held the depth of an open grave. It made Tarn shudder and feel even worse than he already did.

Adrian said, "He wants me to finish it." It wasn't a question.

"I'm afraid so." Captain Tarn could no longer meet his dark and disturbing eyes.

"And if I refuse?"

Tarn tried to swallow but his throat felt as if it hadn't felt the touch of liquid in ages. He tried to sway this brilliant but stubborn man from the disastrous path he was setting for himself. "Adrian, you know what they're going to do. They've already authorized it if you don't cooperate. Don't give them an excuse."

That was why Barker had been so smug. Admiral Verel had included orders for the maximum retraining level and had approved Barker's people to begin the preliminary stages.

The Admiral was a man who did not accept refusal from anyone and Adrian's file would have told him that he was particularly strong-willed and far too intelligent to bend to anyone's will. He would have Adrian's cooperation or destroy his mind. The thought of it made Tarn's stomach queasy.

Adrian said in a tired, lifeless voice, "I would like to go now, sir."

The die was cast. After a lifetime of struggle, he should have known that he would never be able to escape the Empire's control. He never had before, no matter how hard he tried. They were far too powerful.

Adrian knew they would most likely execute him once he was done, unless they had something else for him to do. He knew which he would prefer.

The Captain sighed and pressed the comm button on his desk. "You can come back in now, Barker. The prisoner is yours."

With a single word, Adrian's status had changed. He no longer had the benefit of a name; he was no longer simply an officer who needed to be disciplined. They might give him his name back if he gave the Admiral what he wanted but Adrian wasn't planning to.

**********

Kali stared in shock at the empty cell. Her eyes closed tightly and snapped open again. Projecting to Adrian was useless if he couldn't tell her where he was. Her hand slapped the side of the wall in anguish. Having limited psi abilities with humans was proving to be extremely frustrating.

Where was he? What did they do with him? Could they have released him? Was he back in his cabin? It was worth a try.

Her hand covered a wide yawn. She wasn’t fond of the night shift. It always made her feel as if she'd been run over by a huge transport vehicle. Unfortunately, Adrian preferred the hours when most people were unconscious and couldn't bother him with unreasonable demands or silly questions.

After a night of worrying, she was even more tired. She put one sluggish foot in front of the other, taking deep breaths to keep herself alert.

Adrian. Where are you? They were hopeful words sent out into the uncertain darkness. I'm coming to your cabin.

Her footsteps seemed unusually clumpish in the empty corridors. Military boots on metal surfaces were never very quiet. She might as well take out an advertisement or be wearing a bell.

Kali made the foray to the officers section. She'd never tried visiting Adrian's cabin before. It would announce a relationship he barely acknowledged to himself.

Her hand reached out to the door panel and paused in hesitation. Would he answer? If he wanted to be left alone, he might not. Even if he were inside. She liked to think he would make an exception for her but it was hard to tell. Despite her ability to 'read' his emotional states - when he wasn't actively keeping them from her - he was still a mystery.

"He's not there," a bass voice informed her.

Kali instinctively snapped to attention at the voice of the Captain behind her. She turned stiffly to face him. "Sir?"

There was a tired-of-life look in Tarn's eyes. "I'm sorry." His eyes held hers briefly and then he walked on to his own cabin.

A sense of fear made her chase after him. It was no longer time for discretion. "Sir, where is Adrian? I mean, Lieutenant Stannis?"

The Captain's steps faltered and stopped but he didn't turn to face her. "He's…" The words seemed to take a great effort, as if they grated against an open wound. "…in the Security Section." There was a pause. "With the therapists."

Kali swayed on her feet as the implication hit her. Her voice was faint and her cheeks were drained of colour. "The therapists?"

Captain Tarn regarded her with curiosity. "You have a relationship with Stannis?" he asked in a tone that implied that dogs doing the tango were more probable than Adrian having a positive relationship with anyone, and even less a romantic one.

"We're shipmates."

"Of course." She obviously didn't want to tell him and the Captain was never one to pry into the private lives of his crew, but he was not the commanding officer by being blind.

"I was worried. He didn’t show up for his shift."

"Yes." A dry cough choked his throat. "I wouldn't get involved, Ensign." His eyes sought hers. "It would be better for both of you."

His look froze Kali's heart in fear. It was as if he had dismissed Adrian from the land of the living. She stammered, "W-what's going to happen to him?"

The Captain's voice became frigid as he tried to distance himself from something that was making him ill. "That's up to him. Now, if you'll excuse me."

Even after Tarn had disappeared into his cabin, Kali stood frozen in place.

**********

"It's an art," said the Adjustment Therapist conversationally as he watched the black-clad security personnel strip Adrian and lift him onto the dull metal slab. Their movements were impersonal, as if they were preparing a specimen for testing purposes.

The cool air of the white-walled therapy room washed over Adrian's flesh, chilling him to the bone. He was determined to stay impassive, showing no external reactions, but an involuntary shiver passed through him as his flesh touched the icy surface. His limbs were spread-eagled and metal bands were snapped into place over his wrists and legs. Wider ones were stretched across his shoulders and hip. He tugged against the restraints but there was no give, he was immobilized. His eyes fixed on a spot on the featureless grey ceiling and he drew in his concentration, trying to ignore the feeling of being naked and exposed to whatever they wanted to do to him.

Barker was watching nearby, a sneer on his face.

Adrian was familiar with these psychological games to increase the feeling of helplessness and forced submission. As a valuable but uncooperative resource for the Empire, he had been subjected to them most of his life.

He knew what was coming. The only way to fight it was to concentrate his mind, to fill himself with thoughts of his own choosing. He could not allow them a foothold.

His cold flesh barely felt the pinprick of needles as they were inserted into his veins and attached to drug lines controlled from a panel near the bed. The cool liquid dripped down and was carried into his body, chilling him further.

They were beginning, and so was he.

The Quaten-Seris Theorem… His mind intoned the complex theory that had been his first brilliant thesis.

The Therapist, a pleasant-faced man with clinical eyes and hair that was greying, in a distinguished way, at the temples, continued talking to him. "Yes, it is an art. To be able to break a man’s will, but not completely. Just enough for you to continue being useful."

His fingers ran absently along Adrian's body, light as a feather, drawing a string of warmth across his chest. Despite his efforts, part of Adrian’s concentration was being leeched away as his flesh became acutely aware of the hot fingers that seemed to reach inside to touch the core of his being. It could almost be considered a sensual sensation if it had been a lover's finger and not that of a ruthless man who was preparing to twist his mind to suit another's will.

The Therapist bent down over his chest. Adrian gasped and his hip jerked against the restraints as warm air blew gently across his nipples. His eyes widened in shock as a different kind of warmth pooled in his groin.

There was a pleased chuckle from the Therapist. "You see, even the coldest of men have some feelings. The drugs enhance physical sensations. Both pain, which we will explore later in detail, and pleasure." He blew lightly across Adrian's inflamed flesh, sending reluctant shivers of pleasure through his body.

Adrian clamped down hard as he bit back a moan and desperately tried to find a way to fight this assault on his senses; the visceral, primal feelings that overrode the higher functions of the mind.

"There is no way to fight it," the Therapist informed him helpfully. "The other drugs force your body to respond by increasing the production of various hormones and chemicals." His face came within Adrian's view. "You never expected this, did you? They said you were special. You would be hard to break. They told me to get started and they'll take over with more advanced techniques. But I have a few of my own. Something I hope will bring me the recognition I deserve. I'll be recording this for prosperity. You will be my first subject."

Adrian regarded him with his well-known cold impassivity, but it required a conscious effort. His body had already betrayed him.

The Therapist's fingers brushed against the prisoner's lightly flushed cheeks. "Even someone like you can feel shame. You're a man who lives almost entirely in your mind. It makes you vulnerable to certain…" The fingers trailed down, selectively touching him, sending ripples of warmth and desire through Adrian's body. "…things. You don't know how to deal with emotions and strong feelings. You're afraid of them because they can make you lose control. So you try to distance yourself, shut down your emotions, and outlaw feelings as irrational."

The knife-edge of the Therapist's palm traced the smooth, vulnerable flesh along the inner thigh. Adrian hissed and bit his lower lip as his body stretched and arched against his will. He struggled against the restraints, less to free himself - which he knew wasn't possible - and more to express his resistance to what was happening.

Therapist smirked. "You're afraid. You know I can make your body do anything I want." He reached down and began stroking the most sensitive part of Adrian's body, slowly and firmly like a lover who knew exactly what his beloved wanted. He said in a seductive whisper, "Pure physical pleasure. Entirely beyond the control of your rational mind. Courtesy of drugs that don't care how smart you are. How does it feel?"

Waves of need rolled in past defenses that were primed to fight a different kind of attack. They overwhelmed Adrian’s mind, compelling his body to move in an unwilling rhythm to the other man’s control. The Therapist was playing him like a finely tuned instrument.

No!

He rebelled at what was happening to him. He tried to concentrate, to bring his iron discipline to bear, but it was useless. He could not quench the fires that consumed his body and besieged his mind. The desires resisted all efforts to be pushed down; to be buried where he normally hid all things that threatened to take away his control. His body refused to obey his will.

Can't…think. Must…think…

Adrian bit his tongue, trying to produce pain to counteract the pleasure that was making his body betray him, but it only seemed to enhance what the Therapist was making him feel.

"Ahhh." One sensation seemed to build on the next as the Therapist stroked and touched him, blinding his mind, making it impossible to think, fight, to resist. His body arched and sagged to the control of the hand between his legs. Slow. Fast. Hard. Soft. Pain and intense pleasure.

The Adjustment specialist said clinically, "It will be interesting to discover which will make you beg. Will it be the pain or the pleasure?"

Fear entered like a thief, robbing Adrian of dignity and replacing it with feelings he had fought all of his life, helplessness and loss of control.

His jaw clenched harder, stifling the moans of desire that threatened to escape his lips. His face burned red with humiliation, and his fevered body ached with the need to reach a climax the Therapist was not allowing him. His treacherous body writhed with the agony of hate and desire.

No!

Adrian had been expecting pain, conditioning techniques, psychological trickery, anything but this. All the mental tools he had learned to fight them with were useless against the Therapist's manipulation of his senses, but he refused to give up. The man might have his body, but not his will. He refused to finish the neutron wave project, not matter what they did to him. His voice was tight with anger as he said, "Go...To...Hell..."

The Therapist's face assumed an amused smile that stopped just shy of his eyes. "You're already there,” he said as he abruptly quickened the rhythm. Adrian’s hips thrust hard against the metal bands and a reluctant shout of release was torn from his lips.

Sub-Commander Barker tilted his head back and triumphant laughter erupted from a mouth twisted in a cruel smile.

Adrian and Kali: The Confederation Empire, Part 1

2009-10-30T00:59:41Z

I'm posting this at the request of jaxomsride who was curious...

I've been writing another story series, not B7. It is a bit like an AU in that I've taken the dystopian world setting plus 'borrowed' a couple of characters but have changed them. I will also be using some of my OCs from the other story and slotting them in here but in different ways.

Rating: Gen
Genre: Drama

Synopsis: The Confederated Worlds have been under siege for a millennium, ever since the curious Terrans managed to venture beyond their own galaxy towards Andromeda. In desperation, a confederation of the strongest planets, with Earth being at the forefront, have formed a united Empire to fight off each wave of invasion and incursion.

Unfortunately, out of a need for an iron fist and harsh discipline, whose sole purpose was the protection and survival of its citizens, the Confederation Empire has become increasingly totalitarian. Its once noble goals have become excuses for escalating oppression of its citizens. Corrupt, power-hungry leaders are the norm rather than the exception.

Into this world we find our heroes, Adrian Stannis, a cold, brilliant loner trying to stay out of the clutches of the power hungry, and Kali Tranton, a humanoid alien with psi abilities, whose world has escaped the oppression of the Confederation Empire - until now.

When the story begins, they are both serving as far from 'civilization' as one could possibly get, on a science and deep space exploration vessel, the C.S.S. Sedener.

**********

Why does time seem so slow when you're waiting for something to happen? Was it simply a trick of the mind or was there a dimension you entered, a special mocking place, where time expanded just to drive you crazy?

Kali drummed impatient fingers along the rounded edge of her control panel. The solitude of the bridge was eerie during the night shift. The slight energy-hum of various ships’ systems, normally ignored, were magnified in the absence of other noises, and gave the room a cavernous, echoing feel.

Where was Adrian? They'd arranged to have this shift together - or rather, she did, and he didn't object - but his tactical station was conspicuously empty. It was highly unusual for him to be this overdue, or late at all, for that matter. The man was so punctual you could set a time indicator by him.

Something had to be wrong, and he was going to be in trouble if he didn't have a good reason for being missing from his post. She sensed nothing from him. He was completely closed to her, as if he was trying to block her psi senses.

Where was he? If he didn't check into his station soon, his lapse would be logged in for review by the first officer. Then Adrian would be in real trouble.

Being a deep space exploration/science vessel, the C.S.S. Sedener tended to be more lax in discipline than the regular Confederation Empire's military ships, but even here, not showing up was not an option.

If he put himself on the radar of the first officer, Kali shuddered to think what might happen.

Sub-Commander Barker, the First, as he liked to call himself - though the crew had far more colourful names for him when he was out of earshot - didn't like Adrian. He had a real hatred of anyone who was smarter than he was, and Adrian didn't bother to hide his intelligence.

Unfortunately, Barker was the Empire's eyes and ears on the ship. Anyone who stepped out of line, or committed any of the thousands of infractions deemed harmful to the security of the Empire, was subject to a sliding scale of disciplinary measures, from a stiff reprimand, up to physical punishment for the lower ranks, or psychological adjustments for the officers.

Barker and his people loved their work, moreso because they were a sadistic lot – Kali suspected – than for an actual love of the Empire. On the Sedener, there was little scope for their ‘talents’. Infractions tended to be minor. The only one immune to their attentions was the Captain, but even he was wary of attracting Barker's suspicions.

Adrian had not felt the "wrath of Barker" yet. His mind was far too valuable to risk the "retraining" methods employed for officers. Not to mention he was a First in the Privilege Levels, born one and tested as one.

Unless there was a gross breach of discipline, Adrian could not be touched. Not showing up for his duty, without a good reason - like being on his deathbed or captured by aliens - would definitely qualify as a severe violation.

Should she use her psi abilities to contact him? The use of her talents made Adrian nervous - it seemed like an invasion of privacy when she used them on him - so she refrained from projecting her voice into his mind without his permission.

Kali was a humanoid alien from Tellar in Sector 5. She was human enough in all the right places, with only a few minor, internal differences, hardly noticeable unless you were into dissecting bodies or were in the medical profession. With her jet-black hair - cut regulation short for females - sharp grey eyes, thin, athletic build and black officer's uniform, she seemed like any other Terran woman onboard.

The only other obvious differences were her psi abilities. She was fully telepathic among her own people but with humans, it was limited to sensing emotional states and projecting her voice into their minds. It was a haphazard thing at best, except with those she was closest to. On this ship full of humans, her closest human friend was Adrian, their resident computer specialist and all-round scientific genius. It was ironic since he was the one person on the ship who shunned personal relationships with others.

She had felt an instant connection with Adrian the first time they met, and he had found her easy to work with, which was the ultimate compliment from him. They had developed a comfortable relationship over the past year, usually away from the prying eyes of the other members of the crew. Adrian was an intensely private man, and for his sake, they maintained a proper, professional rapport in front of the crew.

From the beginning, she had sensed great depth in him, and his emotions rolled like hidden waves below the surface. If she didn't have her psi abilities, she might have also viewed him the way the rest of the crew did; a cold, arrogant loner whose brilliant mind made him even more unapproachable.

Now he was a loner who was missing.

Through her connection to him, she knew he had been agitated and highly stressed today. She had hoped to use the quiet time of the night shift to slowly tease out the reason from him. Should she have tried to approach him earlier?

She closed her eyes and drew in her concentration, absently placing her fingers to the side of her temple in preparation. It was harder projecting to someone if she didn’t know where they were or how far.

"Kali!" shouted Bryce -- their ship's weapons specialist and one-time thief -- as he raced in, his shock of burnt-orange hair, just a little too long, waved like flames on top of his head. He came to a wheezing and panting stop as his out-of-shape lungs protested this increased demand for oxygen.

Kali opened her eyes and turned towards him. Bryce always seemed to overreact to everything and he considered sharing, one of his primary missions in life. She found it amusing at first, but it could be irritating if she was trying to do something important. "I'm trying to find Adrian." She tapped the side of her head in emphasis. "Trying to contact him. He didn't show up for his shift."

Bryce, wearing the grey jumpsuit of the lower ranks, said excitedly, "That's why I'm here. Thought you should know."

Kali's heart quickened in apprehension. She said in a rush, "What's wrong? Where is he?"

"He's in the brig."

"What?" Kali asked in shock. As far as she knew, Adrian had never been in the brig before. "What happened?"

"Beats me." Bryce shrugged unhelpfully. "Just saw two of those big bullyboys dragging him off and shoving him in one of the holding cells." The big bullyboys, Bryce's irreverent name for the security staff under Barker, were nasty 'discipline' specialists. No one liked them, which was just as well because they didn't like anyone. Adrian might be a loner who was wary of people, but next to him, these men didn’t seem human.

She asked in a stuttering voice, "D-did they do anything to him?"

"Didn’t see any bruises if that's what you're asking for," said Bryce. "'Sides, he's a Firster and an officer; they wouldn't dare lay a finger on him."

Kali's lips thinned. She wasn’t so sure about that. The security staff might not dare, but the first officer was a different matter. "Was Barker there?"

"Oh, you mean old grom…I mean, our esteemed first officer?"

"One of these days," warned Kali, "They'll throw you in a punishment cell."

"What do you mean, one of these days? I was there two weeks ago." He shivered involuntarily.

"I thought you said you were on leave?"

"Yeah, well…" Bryce's light green eyes lowered in embarrassment. "I was supposed to be. I sort of…started early."

"You didn't?" she said incredulously.

"I didn't think anyone'd notice."

Kali's grey eyes seemed to darken slightly. "You've done this before, haven't you?"

"Well, if you must know, yeah. I've never been caught though. And what's a few extra hours early? It's not like we're doing anything important. I haven't had anything to shoot in ages."

"I hope you've learned your lesson."

"Oh, was I supposed to learn something?" asked Bryce facetiously.

"You're not the problem now."

"Yeah, good old Adrian. I knew he was all right when Barker didn't like him."

"We've got to help him," said Kali.

"Why? It's not like we're friends." In Bryce's experience, all relationships were barter ones where no one did anything unless you were guaranteed to receive some benefit in return.

Kali had found Terran culture very cutthroat, unlike her own Tellaran world. There had been great controversy about joining the Confederation Empire, but a small neutral planet found it rough going during these troubled times.

"Bryce, he's only got us."

Bryce grimaced at the tone in her voice. He was always a sucker for a damsel in distress. "What d'you want me to do?"

"I'm stuck here until my shift ends."

"Oh. You want me to do some digging 'round?"

"You're good at that."

"I'm not sure that's a compliment," said Bryce wryly, his eyes rolling upwards.

"It is this time."

"All right, I'll see what I can find out."

**********

Adrian sat stiffly at the edge of the hard metal sleep platform; his back ramrod straight and his hands resting lightly on his knees. The cell was square, grey, cold, and devoid of anything resembling imagination.

His liquid hazel eyes were dark and brooding, his dark brown hair cut regulation short, and his features, though boyish and at times could be considered handsome, were severe to the point of grim.

"Psst." A voice called to him from the doorway.

Adrian's lips curled downwards as he reluctantly got up from the platform and went over. "Bryce. What are you doing?"

"Trying to be quiet." The weapon's specialist poked his orange-topped head from the side of the energy-shielded doorway.

"Why? There isn't anyone here."

"Oh. Yeah." More of him came into view. He peered inside past Adrian. "Comfy in there?"

"Did you come to annoy me or did you have a real reason?" asked Adrian coldly.

Bryce grinned. "Kali sent me."

Adrian's normally hard, impassive face softened briefly - at least Bryce could almost swear it had - before the cold mask slipped into place again. "Tell her not to worry."

"That's a hard one to sell. Look where you are." Bryce rested his hand on the side of the doorway. "She wants to know what happened."

Adrian gave him one of his classic stares - Bryce imagined the millions of wheels turning in his head - before saying, "I will tell her later."

"You're going to let her spend her whole shift worrying?" Bryce pointed out.

Adrian stared at him again. Bryce really wished he would stop doing that, it was very unnerving. Bryce asked, "Well?"

Adrian's eyes focused on a spot just past Bryce's head, almost as if he were trying to see through the walls to where Kali was, except it was in the wrong direction. "I've been told to report to the C.S.S. Trykor when we reach Base 337."

Bryce's eyes widened and his mouth opened in a big O. “Wow!”

Adrian said flatly, “That wasn’t my reaction.”

“But the Trykor! That’s Admiral Verel’s ship. Fleet Admiral Verel.”

“I know who he is,” said Adrian in a measured voice that gave nothing away.

“Your career is set if you’re assigned to his ship. I hear they serve real food there. Not the reconstituted junk we get.”

Adrian’s voice rose a tad, “Then you go.”

“Well, I’m not the genius, am I? Just a lowly weapon’s specialist. Press the buttons and things go boom. Not much to it really. But you, I’m surprised they didn’t snap you up sooner.”

Adrian turned away and began pacing his cell. He stopped suddenly and said, “Tell Kali not to worry.”

“She’s not going to believe that, you know. But I’ll tell her,” said Bryce. “And I’ll tell her you’ve lost your mind.” He raced off before Adrian could object or glare at him.

**********

After Bryce relayed what Adrian said, Kali’s lips pursed in thought. “Did he say why he’s refusing?”

“You know him. Likes to keep everything to himself. He probably won’t even tell himself if he could.”

“You’re exaggerating,” said Kali.

“It’s true.”

Kali’s fingers tapped her console. Why would Adrian refuse assignment to the best ship in the fleet? Did he know the Admiral? Was there a personal conflict? Knowing Adrian, that wouldn’t be out of the question. “Did you find out what they’re going to do with him?” she asked Bryce.

“Nothing good,” said Bryce. “You know the ‘Fed. You go where you’re sent or you go where you’re sent, or else.”

“So you don’t really know.”

“Yeah, well, I wasn’t about to ask, was I?”

Sighing worriedly, she hesitated a moment as she contemplated Bryce’s face.

Bryce held up his hand in a defensive gesture, “Now wait just a minute, I’m not about to stick my neck out again.”

“You won’t be. I only need you to get an answer from him. You don’t even have to say anything.” She touched her temple, “I will.”

“I don’t know...” His face scrunched up as if he’d eaten something extremely sour.

“You can wait until no one’s around. That should be safe enough.”

Bryce rolled his eyes. “Why do I do this to myself?”

“Because you’re a good man.”

“Yeah, well, don’t let it get around. I have a reputation, you know.”

Kali regarded him with amusement and shook her head slightly. “You and Adrian aren’t too different from each other.”

“I resent that,” said Bryce.

“Both of you want people to see you worse than you are.”

“Me, maybe.” Bryce grinned.

“You should give Adrian more of a chance.”

“He doesn’t give anyone else one.”

“Adrian’s very fair. He treats people the way they treat him.”

Bryce shook his head wryly, “You’ve got it bad for him, don’t you?”

Kali bristled. “That has nothing to do with it.”

“Yeah, yeah -and pigs can fly.”

“Adrian’s right, you can be very irritating,” she said with a scowl. “Are you going to do it?”

“I’m a good man, aren’t I?” His chest puffed out in exaggerated pride but there was an impish smile on his face. He was the kind of man some women found the need to mother.

“I’m beginning to reconsider that opinion,” said Kali with an exaggerated displeased frown.

Bryce chuckled. “I’ll go.”

**********

Adrian continued pacing his cell after Bryce left. He knew something was going to happen now that Kali knew where he was. Not to mention, Bryce was an incessant gossip and busybody.

It didn’t take Kali long to project to him, Adrian.

His steps slowed.

She said into his mind, Can you tell me why you’re refusing the new assignment? You know you won’t have a choice and Barker is only waiting for a chance to make your life miserable.

Adrian sniffed and sat down on the hard platform. He knew very well what Barker wanted to do to him. Apart from the Captain, he was the only officer onboard who hadn’t been sent for retraining yet.

The tyrannical first officer wasn’t stupid enough to risk endangering the mind of someone who had been deemed a valuable resource to the Empire. Not to mention Adrian had been born into Firster privileges and had tested as a First Level.

“Psst.”

Adrian directed annoyed eyes to the door. Sure enough, Bryce was back. Before the weapon’s specialist could open his mouth, Adrian repeated, “Tell her not to worry.”

Bryce gave an exaggerated grimace and complained, “You know if I tell her that, she’s just going to send me right back. Maybe I’ll make up something.”

Adrian shot him a hard and very 'loud' glare.

Bryce swallowed and said quickly, “Or maybe not.”

As much as he didn’t want to admit it, Adrian knew the one-time thief had a point. Women liked understanding the deep emotional reasons most men would prefer to deny, and himself even more.

What answer would satisfy her? He knew Kali would say something simple, like the truth.

It wasn’t that Adrian was opposed to truth. In fact, he demanded it as a necessity in his life. It was why he preferred working with computers and machines. They were truthful in a way he knew human beings couldn't be.

But some truths touched more deeply than was comfortable for him.

He didn’t want to tell anyone why he was refusing this prestigious assignment. It had a great deal to do with why a genius of his calibre was spending his time doing research in the outskirts of the civilized worlds, far away from the privilege that his position and reputation gave him.

No one had bothered to ask, though he suspected Kali wondered. They all thought he was an eccentric loner who didn’t want to associate with people. He encouraged that image, of course. It made for far fewer irritating questions from the majority of people who, in his experience, did little thinking.

So far, Kali was the only one who had braved his prickly exterior to dig deeper. She had the advantage of her Tellaran psi abilities, but he suspected she would have even without them. There was something about her. Adrian mentally shook himself out of what could become pleasantly diverting thoughts.

Bryce looked nervously down both ends of the corridor. “Can you hurry it up? I don’t want to get caught here.”

“Then leave,” snapped Adrian.

“See if I don’t.” Bryce’s voice rose in indignation. “But I’m not doing it for you.”

“I never asked you to.”

“D’you have an answer or not?” asked Bryce in a huff.

“Tell her.” Adrian hesitated as he considered his words carefully. “Tell her it’s a military vessel.”

“I’m pretty sure she knows that. Everyone knows that. It’s the Admiral’s flag ship.”

“That’s my answer,” said Adrian.

Bryce was finding this thirsty work and wish he was back in his bunk where he had a flagon of whisky waiting. He grumbled, “Would it kill you to say a few more words?”

“It might.”

It was Bryce’s turn to stare at him, uncertain if Adrian was kidding. The man had the poker face to beat all poker faces and revealed nothing. Bryce said with ill humour, “I’ll tell her. But don’t be surprised if she sends me right back.”

Just as Bryce turned to leave, Adrian said, “Tell her, I’m not ready to explain.”

“Yeah, what else is new,” said Bryce. “You sure know how to break a girl’s heart.”

“I...” Adrian stopped himself in time from saying something more personal.

Bryce turned around with a startled look. “You feel alright?”

The blank, expressionless look was back. “I’m fine.”

There was an awkward moment of silence. Adrian was as blank as a statue most times, except for his eyes. Those were deep and alive with expression, as they were now. Bryce said, “I’ll just tell her what you said.” He headed off.

“Bryce.”

The weapon’s specialist turned to face him again. “Yeah?”

Adrian stared at him a long few seconds, as if he wasn’t quite sure why he had called him back. “Thank you.”

Bryce’s mouth dropped open. “It’s...well...nothing to it.”

**********

After passing on Adrian's highly uninformative message, Bryce sighed resignedly and asked, “D’you want me to go back? Ask him what it means?”

Kali’s eyes were troubled. “No. It’s all right.”

Adrian was telling her it was not a personal conflict with someone onboard the Trykor. It had something to do with it being a military ship.

“You know what it means?” asked Bryce in mystification.

“I'm not sure, but I can guess.”

Kali wondered if it had anything to do with why Adrian was on the Sedener in the first place. She'd always wondered what someone of his calibre was doing here. He would have had far greater privileges, money and position serving anywhere else in the Empire.

Had he offended someone? Had he deliberately chosen this middle-of-nowhere posting? How had he been able to avoid notice? The Empire tended to snap up its valuable resources quickly - although, it seemed that his time of relative anonymity was over now, and not in a good way. She had to find a way to help him and discover what was going on before it was too late.

Favourites Meme

2009-10-29T15:31:31Z

Haven't done a meme in a while. This one is snagged from oxbastetxo

1) Post a list of up to 20 books/movies/anime/TV shows/video games/bands [fannish etc.] that you've had an obsessive fannish love or interest in at some time in your life.
2) Have your f-list guess your favorite character/member from each item.
3) When someone guesses correctly, strikethrough the item and put the name of your favorite character next to it.

EDIT: Only 1 left!
Traders - There is a connection between Traders and Stargate: Atlantis that will give you a clue.

This last reference is hard unless you've watched both series. Sooo, as incentive, I will write a drabble of your choice for whomever guesses this final one.

And the winner is....emerald_happy!

1. ~~Blakes 7~~ - Avon (no surprise there), reapermum and oxbastetxo, Cally & Vila would be seconds, followed closely by Gan
2. ~~C.S.I.~~ - Grissom, emerald_happy
3. ~~The Closer~~ - Brenda, oxbastetxo
4. ~~Doctor Who (old)~~ - the Brig, reapermum, Dr. Elizabeth Shaw is also up there
5. ~~Doctor Who (new)~~ - Donna, vilakins
6. ~~Sapphire and Steel~~ - Silver, emerald_happy
7. ~~Eureka~~ - Jo Lupo and Henry are a toss up, vilakins, seconds would be Fargo and Taggart
8. ~~Alias~~ - Jack, emerald_happy
9. ~~Firefly~~ - Inara, wolfma, she and Shepherd Book were my favourites, with Wash and Zoe as close seconds, I hated when they killed Book and Wash in the movie
10. ~~Life~~ - Charlie Crews, emerald_happy
11. ~~House~~ - House, oxbastetxo, Cuddy and Wilson would be seconds
12. ~~Bones~~ - Temperance Brennan, vilakins
13. ~~Boston Legal~~ - Alan Shore and Jerry Espenson, vilakins
14. ~~Burn Notice~~ - Sam, vilakins
15. ~~Yes, Minister and Yes, PM~~ - Humphrey, vilakins, though I'm a softie for Bernard as well
16. ~~Traders~~ - Grant Jansky who is played by David Hewlett(Rodney McKay) (hmm seems he was born in Surrey, UK, and his family moved to Canada when he was young), emerald_happy
17. ~~Chef~~ - Gareth Blackstock, wolfma
18. ~~Millenium~~ - Frank, emerald_happy
19. ~~Buffy the Vampire Slayer~~ - Spike! debris4spike, though I have a soft spot for Giles too
20. ~~The Avengers~~ - Steed, reapermum, Mrs. Gale is a close second

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 33

2009-10-27T11:49:15Z

Category: Romance, Humour, Drama
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: The morning after the parties. The men and Wolf feel the worse for wear.

Note: This also contains the previous Avon and Cally scene. Thanks to darrowsgirl for some valuable suggestions for that scene, jaxomsride for help with the biology info and AA for spotting typos.

EDIT: I have also added a line in the Avon/Cally scene because it seems several of you were concerned about Vila. Sigh. It seems I didn't make it clear enough they were joking.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Three

Next Chapter

After dropping Reya off and seeing that the three drunken men were safely tucked away, Cally arrived in her own cabin. Avon stood stock still in the centre of the room, a bemused look on his face. At least he was standing.

"Avon, is something wrong?"

"Cally." He turned to face her. "Do you see it?"

Cally did a double-take. "S-see? What?" Avon's face was flushed. She immediately felt his forehead, it was slightly warmer than normal. "Are you feeling alright? What did you drink tonight?" His dim eyes gave no indication, if they had, that would have been surprising, or a miracle.

"Nothing Vila concocted, I assure you." Reaching out in the direction of her voice, he encountered her hands, took them in his own and drew her closer. "How was your evening?"

She searched his face but it was as it always was when they were alone, impassive still, but slightly more relaxed and animated. "It was enjoyable. We had a good time of sharing and treats."

"No drunken singing or men popping out of cakes?"

Cally scowled. "I heard about the men's party."

A brief smile touched Avon's lips. "Corinne, of course."

"Must men be so…"

"Disgusting?" Avon smiled.

"Primitive."

"We are men." He pulled her closer, breathing in her familiar scent and feeling her curves fitting against his body. His eyelids flickered and he leaned in, brushing the softness of her neck with his nose as he took a deeper whiff. An explosion of swirling colours danced in front of his inner eyes. "Were strawberries among the treats?" The soft, sweet fragrance made his mouth water. It had been a long time since he'd tasted fresh strawberries. The last time had been…with Anna in Europa dome. It was a long time ago.

He had an irresistible desire to taste those strawberries again, he kissed the sweetly scented flesh, his lips parting, and the tip of his tongue tasting… "Strawberries." He pulled back in surprise. "You taste like strawberries."

"It's a special fragrance. Do you like it?"

"It stimulates different sense receptors? Producing olfactory, visual and oral effects? There are certain chemicals..."

Cally sighed. "I tried to convince the women you can be romantic when you want to be."

"Ah." His voice softened but remained flat, like silk caressing exposed flesh. "This would not be one of those moments."

"It wouldn't be high on my list."

"Then I shall endeavour to do better."

Cally brushed her fingers lightly along his forehead following the curve of his eyebrows. Her voice contained curiosity. "Avon. The scent isn't supposed to produce a visual effect. Did you say that you had one?"

Avon's head cocked slightly. "I was experiencing visual hallucinations before you entered the room. The fragrance intensified the effect."

"Hallucinations?" Her hand stopped its movement as she searched his eyes. "Are you sure you didn't drink anything Vila gave you?"

"I had the Wolf bring me a cup of water." His eyes widened. "It must have obtained the water…"

"From an unreliable source."

"Vila."

"I hope you don't need Vila for anything tomorrow, Avon," she said in a half-joking, half-serious tone, "I might possibly want to kill him."

"I will leave you a piece. Would you like an arm or a leg?"

Light smiles played across their faces, each aware they were no longer speaking about Vila.

"It seems we can all have primitive urges."

Avon breathed in the heady, enticing scent of strawberries and Cally's lightly scented skin mingled deliciously together. Sensual warmth spread like a blanket over his body. "I would like to have a primitive moment now. If you have no objections."

**********

Somewhere a wolf howled in mournful misery. Dain shivered, gripped by an inexplicably primitive fear, and snuggled deeper under the blanket.

Wait a minute.

He opened his eyes a sliver and was greeted by the familiar sight of his cabin, bathed in shadows of the night cycle.

Then the pain hit, a dull throbbing ache of a brain that seemed to be swelling, trying to break free of the confines of his skull. "Ohhhh." He moaned softly, remembering, just in time, the reason for his present sorry state.

Loud noises were to be avoided at all costs, along with light, and moving more than a few inches at a time. And breathing, as even that simple act caused groan-inducing pain. Taking light, shallow, delicate breaths, he looked over to the cot in the middle of the room.

Argus was curled up like a sick puppy, pawing at his head and whimpering piteously. A thin grey blanket lay in a heap on the floor.

"Commander?" The lieutenant dared a soft whispered query.

Argus whined and mashed the pillow over his head, trying to hide from the cruel world.

Getting up was a heroic feat that Dain didn't feel up to, but Argus seemed in even worse shape than he was, not to mention the howling and whimpering was far too loud.

Dain rolled his body out of bed, fully expecting he was going to end up flat on his face and would have to crawl the rest of the way. Automatic reflexes mercifully took over and he stood up slowly, one hand on his aching head, the other desperately grabbing at the wall. The room lurched and swayed like a drunken sailor. He swallowed hard, trying to keep his stomach from travelling up his throat.

Taking baby-like steps, he made his way to the cot. Dain shook Argus's shoulder. "Sir, are you alright?"

The pillow smothered a howl of pain and complaint.

Dain knew about the Wolf of course, but he'd never had to interact with it personally and definitely not in this state. He hoped the creature recognized him as one of its pack.

"Wolf, are you in pain?" That was a silly question. Of course it was, otherwise it wouldn't be making sounds that made both of their heads want to find a hole and not come out until next year. "Wolf, I can help but you have to stop making that noise. It hurts even more when you do that."

"Rrrr?" it asked in a whining query. Two red-ringed eyes appeared and stared at him from the edge of the pillow.

"Yes, that's it. Your head hurts more if there are loud sounds."

There was a low whispered grumble at the base of the creature's throat.

Dain couldn't speak wolf but the creature's feelings were very apparent. "Yes, it's not a very nice feeling."

The grumble became a low growl that ended in a whimper of pain.

"You're right, it's terrible." He had an irresistible urge to stroke the creature's head, as he once did for a sick puppy back home. This was all very strange.

The wolf sniffed, satisfied at the description and closed its eyes.

"Commander?" Dain asked in a bare whisper.

Argus's eyelids fluttered and his eyes opened. He groaned, "Don't shout." It felt as if an axe had split his head open and the contents were spilling out. He rubbed his sore head.

"Sorry, sir." Dain nearly mouthed the words. "Do you want me to go to the medical unit and get something for the pain?"

"Bucket."

"Oh. You're going to be sick?" Dain's eyes cast around for a large container. He might need one too.

"For medicine."

"Ohhh. Yes, I know what you mean, sir. I'll go and get it now." Dain looked dubiously at the door that seemed a mile away. He'd be lucky if he could crawl that far.

Dain spied the triangular comm unit on the table. That he could manage. Barely. He made his way over, depressed the button and said in a reluctantly louder voice, "This is Lt. Dain. I need someone from the medical unit to bring pain medication to my cabin. Several strong doses. It's an emergency."

"This is Cally, Lt. Dain. What is the nature of the emergency?"

The normal-sounding voice was like an angry roar. Dain winced sharply and covered his ears. "Please, not that loud."

Cally's voice became softer. "I see. I'll be right there."

**********

Cally gently slapped several pain patches on Argus's neck as Lt. Dain administered his own. "You shouldn't drink so much."

Argus's eyes seemed to be in a permanent wince. He really wished they'd turn the lights down, or off. Dim lights weren't dim enough for him. "But it was a bachelor party."

Cally sighed. "Yes, I know. But still."

"It's almost a tradition."

"You could start a new one."

Argus put his hand to his head and wondered what Cally's reaction would be if he asked for another patch. "Then it wouldn't be as much fun."

Cally eyed him dubiously. "This is fun?"

"You don't get it." He really wished he didn't have to think about anything. It hurt too much. Plus he had a sneaking suspicion he had to do something today but couldn't for the life of him remember what it was. "It's not about the day after."

"Maybe it should be."

Argus shook his head stubbornly and winced at the motion. Maybe Avon had the right idea with amputation. Maybe he'd felt like this before. "Is Avon alright?"

"Avon didn't get drunk. He drank water."

"I knew he wasn't human," Argus grumbled.

"Though I think Vila managed to sneak something into that water."

"Good old Vila. I should give him a medal."

Cally gave him a hard stare.

Argus looked down in embarrassment. "Maybe not. Did anything happen to Avon?"

"He was seeing colours and he developed a mild fever."

Argus and Dain looked sharply at her. Argus asked, "He can see?"

"Not in the literal sense. The substance Vila used, activated the optic centre of Avon's brain."

"Is that good?"

"It means if we can replace his eyes and optic nerve, his brain will be able to process the visual signals normally."

"That's good." He was feeling much better with this news and stood up. "Ohhh." And sat back down.

"Slowly. The medication has a great deal of alcoholic damage to neutralize."

"You can sound as sarcastic as Avon sometimes."

"Once you feel able to move, I suggest you run. Reya is waiting for you."

Argus's eyes became as wide as a full moon, his mouth dropped open and he slapped his hand to his head. "How could I forget that?"

"Yes, how could you?"

**********

Vila (who felt like death warmed up, had a cold compress pressed to his aching head and was trying, with great difficulty, to put on a light purple shirt) and Corinne were dressing for the bonding ceremony when the door chime rang.

"Who could that be?" asked Corinne (who was a vision in a pink and purple dress and, in Vila's opinion, far too cheerful for this hour of the morning) as she checked if he was decent enough for visitors.

Vila cursed the person who invented door chimes. Even the pre-prepared shot of pain killers and his grandmother's sure-fire cure for hangovers, was not helping this morning.

"Don't know," he whispered.

The door slid open.

Vila gulped. "Avon?" The pain in his head just magnified ten-fold.

"Vila." Avon's voice was colder than the vacuum of space.

"Are you alone?" he asked nervously.

"Who else did you expect?" Avon, in a smart silver leather jacket and black turtleneck and trousers, entered the room with measured steps. Jenna waited outside. Avon's head turned towards him, his sightless eyes, like lasers boring in his direction. "A firing squad perhaps?" he asked in a flat tone.

Vila looked anxiously at Avon, as Corinne looked curiously at Vila.

Corinne asked, "Is something wrong, Avon?"

Avon's answer was a 'loud' stare at Vila.

Vila put his hands up defensively, "Now, just a minute. I didn't mean any harm. It was just a…"

"Hallucinogenic?"

"I knew you weren't going to drink anything I gave you."

"You tricked Wolf." Avon's tone rubbed harshly against Vila's ears.

Vila winced. "Well, it wasn't hard."

"The creature trusts the members of its pack."

Vila felt like a heel. "Well, I wanted you to have fun."

"What was the chemical used?" Avon's voice remained unemotional but rose in a demanding volume.

"I don't know. I mean, I'm not a chemist. But it's called Lover's Sight, if that helps."

Avon nearly choked, remembering the previous night with Cally. He barely managed to maintain an emotionless tone. "Quite."

"Nothing went wrong, did it? I mean…" Vila's face fell. "I know you think fun is playing with your computers but I thought…you really didn't like it? Well, of course you didn't. That's why you're here. Honestly Avon, I was only trying…"

Avon cut him off with a curt lift of his hand.

Vila fell silent and considered amputation. A dark cloud seemed to be hanging over his head.

Avon's dark eyes continued 'staring' in his direction before he said with a blank face, "Cally enjoyed it."

"Oh," Vila said morosely. "That's nice." He looked up suddenly. "Cally enjoyed it?"

"I will bring a chemical analyzer to any future festivities."

"Avon." A grin spread across Vila's face. "I have more of that…chemical. In case you wanted to do an analysis." His tone became suggestive. "A complete analysis."

"All knowledge is useful."

"And I bet Cally would love to know its chemical composition."

At that, the corners of Avon's mouth twitched in the hint of a smile.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Three

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

Happy Birthday!

2009-10-27T02:05:42Z

Mab as Cheshire Cat and a gratuitous Vila pic ;)

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 33, Part 1

2009-10-24T21:03:00Z

Category: Romance
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: A brief Avon and Cally scene. After the party.

Note: The full chapter isn't ready yet but this is the first scene for darrowsgirl. Thought it might cheer you up. Hope you and reapermum feel better soon.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Three, Part 1

Next Chapter

After dropping Reya off and seeing that the three drunk men were safely tucked away, Cally arrived in her own cabin. Avon stood stock still in the centre of the room, a bemused look on his face. At least he was standing.

"Avon, is something wrong?"

"Cally." He turned to face her. "Do you see it?"

"Nothing Vila concocted, I assure you." Reaching out in the direction of her voice, he encountered her hands, took them in his own and drew her closer. "How was your evening?"

She searched his face but it was as it always was when they were alone, impassive still, but slightly more relaxed and animated. "It was enjoyable. We had a good time of sharing and treats."

"No drunken singing or men popping out of cakes?"

Cally scowled. "I heard about the men's party."

A brief smile touched Avon's lips. "Corinne, of course."

"Must men be so…"

"Disgusting?" Avon smiled.

"Primitive."

He had a irresistible desire to taste those strawberries again, he kissed the sweetly scented flesh, his lips parting, and the tip of his tongue tasting… "Strawberries." He pulled back in surprise. "You taste like strawberries."

"It's a special fragrance. Do you like it?"

"It stimulates different sense receptors? Producing an olfactory, visual and an oral effect? There are certain chemicals..."

Cally sighed. "I tried to convince the women you can be romantic when you want to be."

"Ah." His voice softened but remained flat, like silk caressing exposed flesh. "This would not be one of those moments."

"It wouldn't be high on my list."

"Then I shall endeavour to do better."

Cally brushed her fingers lightly along his forehead following the curve of his eyebrows. Her voice contained curiosity. "Avon. The scent isn't suppose to produce a visual effect. Did you say that you had one?"

Avon's head cocked slightly. "I was experiencing visual hallucinations before you entered the room. The fragrance intensified the effect."

"Hallucinations?" Her hand stopped its movement as she searched his eyes. "Are you sure you didn't drink anything Vila gave you?"

"I had the Wolf bring me a cup of water." His eyes widened. "It must have obtained the water…"

"From an unreliable source."

"Vila."

"I hope you don't need Vila for anything tomorrow, Avon. I might possibly want to kill him."

"I will leave you a piece. Would you like an arm or a leg?"

"It seems we can all have primitive urges."

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Three, Part 1

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

Avon and Gan

2009-10-24T05:02:55Z

I've been taking a look at Gan's character and I discover that I really like him. He's the true voice of conscience on the ship. I would have liked to see more of him. It's too bad he didn't really come into his own until Shadow and PP.

This is a little conversation between Avon and Gan. Spoilers for Pressure Point. And some dialogue borrowed from Shadow, Time Squad and Star One.

Gan: Avon, Blake isn't listening.

Avon: Does he ever?

Gan: He does listen to us.

Avon: Does he really? Try saying something he doesn't want to hear or refuse to do what he wants.

Gan: What do you mean?

Avon: An experiment, for your edification. Tell him you refuse to go to Earth and attack Control because it's too dangerous. He's going to get us all killed.

Gan: But he's promised us he wouldn't. We're just going to scout the outer perimeter defences. We won't even be in scanner range of Earth defences.

Avon: And you believe that?

Gan: I do.

Avon: Then you're a fool. (Avon turns to leave but turns around, a sliver of sarcasm in his eyes) Why did all of you demand that Blake promise he wouldn't lead you on a suicide mission to make a pointless gesture? Is it because you believe in him?

Gan: Blake is passionate.

Avon (with a sneer): Another word for obsessed beyond reason.

Gan: He doesn't think things through sometimes.

Avon: Try all the time. One of these days his fanaticism and inability to think will get us all killed.

Gan: That's all you care about isn't it?

Avon: That he will get all of us killed? (with a knowing smile) Isn't that why you forced him to make the promise? Blake's idea of destroying the Federation is to get all of us killed in the process. Dying hardly constitutes winning.

Gan: Then we'll help him see other ways.

Avon (scoffs): With Blake, there is only one way. His.

Gan: You really hate him don't you?

Avon: When this is over, I am done. I am finished. I want to be free. Following Blake requires a level of stupidity, I have not been capable of in a long time.

Gan: Then why are you still here?

Avon: Certainly not by choice. Blake can do whatever he wants. Stir up a thousand revolutions. Wade in blood up to his armpits.

Gan: That doesn't sound like Blake.

Avon: Have you forgotten the Terra Nostra and Shadow? Or has that conveniently escaped your memory?

Gan (hems): Blake needs to win.

Avon: And to achieve that he is willing to do anything. Become like the Terra Nostra. Become like the Federation.

Gan: He's trying to destroy the Federation but…he shouldn't have tried to work with the Terra Nostra or tried to be a drug pusher.

Avon: I'm surprised you're agreeing to help him destroy Control.

Gan: But we're not. He promised us we weren't going anywhere near Earth. He knows its suicide. No one in two hundred years has been able to do it. Not massive rocket attacks from space, not ground assaults. Every kind of attack has been thrown against it and they've all failed.

Avon: And you think a little thing like suicide and getting us all killed will stop Blake? That is why you forced him to promise that he won't, isn't it? We should use Control. Not destroy it.

Gan: I don't know, all that power…

Avon: And you think killing hundreds of millions of Blake's rabble is the better solution?

Gan: But… (his eyes open wide) I didn't think…

Avon: That's no surprise.

Gan: That would make us murderers. Of innocent people.

Avon: And you think that matters to Blake? He is only concerned with winning, with tearing out the heart of the Federation even if it means wading in the blood of others to do it. Yours and anyone else's he can use.

Gan: But he's promised us not to go near Earth. That means we won't be destroying Control. We won't be killing all those people.

Avon: You're a fool if you think Blake's promises can be trusted.

Gan: We have to stop him. Make him see reason.

Avon: Blake and reason, do not belong in the same sentence.

Gan: Are you going to help him destroy Control?

Avon: If only to rid myself of him. If we succeed, if we destroy Control, the Federation will be at its weakest. It will be more vulnerable than it has been for centuries. The revolt in the Outer Worlds will grow. The resistance movements on Earth will launch an all-out attack to destroy the Federation. They will need unifying. They will need a leader. Blake will be the natural choice.

Gan: And what do you get out of this?

Avon: The ship and my freedom.

Gan: Avon, I don't want to destroy Control. Not if it means killing a lot of innocent people.

Avon: Then you have a problem.

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 32

2009-10-22T11:51:49Z

Category: Humour
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: The women's bachelor party goes into full swing.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Two

Next Chapter

The Harmony Room - the name, dubbed by Corinne, for the music room - was festively decked out for the female version of the bachelor party. No party hats were in sight although there was a whiff of alcohol if you really sniffed hard, or were a wolf.

Red and blue streamers hung across the glowing crystals, two hearts lovingly entwined. No one could miss the symbolism, unless you were Avon, and only because he was blind. Or maybe not, depending on your point of view; Avon's idea of romance being a highly contested issue.

The crystals added to the atmosphere, reflecting the joy in the room with exquisite sounds coaxed by a device Corinne had obtained from Avon. The melodic laughter of bells and light fingers lovingly stroked across stringed instruments, transporting the hearer to a world that did not have a word for war or violence. Obviously from a different dimension, or Corinne's very active and 'highly improbable' (Avon's words when he heard what she wanted) imagination.

A cornucopia of mouth-watering delights tickled their nostrils with whiffs of fresh strawberries (well, the sim version of it at least), the heady smells of chocolate promising to carry them to heights of sensual pleasures and, of course, ice cream. In the shape of bunnies. Corinne had discovered them in one of Vila's Delta vids. A cartoon about bugs, bunnies or it could have been about carrots. Obviously a nature vid.

"You did all this?" Reya had been apprehensive about this party. Despite the afternoon teas and music sessions with the other women of the ship, not to mention the sparring practices, she was still highly uncomfortable with 'girly' things. She didn’t want to tell them the idea made her skin crawl and she'd rather get it over with as quickly as possible. And check on the men. She'd heard some strange rumours.

"Everyone pitched in." Corinne beamed with enthusiasm.

The door slid open and Jenna appeared at the threshold and stood nervously, like a vampire who needed to be invited in order to enter.

"Everyone?" asked Reya as she spotted her.

Cally glared at the intruder. "Who invited you?"

A fleck of vulnerability flashed briefly in Jenna's eyes before she reassumed a hard, bitter edge and a snarl that she must have learned from being around Avon too long. "Obviously not you." Her tone was harsh.

Corinne's eyes passed anxiously between the two antagonists but a determined smile of peace and welcome brightened her face. Her voice was light and airy, like an innocent completely oblivious to the idea of conflict. "I did. I hope it's alright. I thought it might be a good idea to get all the women of the ship together. There aren’t that many of us and this is a bachelor party for women."

"You're right," said Reya. "Come in and join us. You're welcome here. Isn't she, Cally?"

"You can welcome her." There was continued hostility in Cally's eyes.

Kirsten eyed her fellow Chandaran curiously. Sester had suggested she not underestimate Corinne. There was an innocence about her that Kirsten had never known, but there was also unexpected steel under her soft, almost child-like, exterior.

"Well, don't be so enthusiastic." Jenna came in, a sarcastic smile seemed plastered to her lips.

Reya could be the cold water to anyone's desire to cause trouble. "I will welcome you for the sake of peace on this ship, Jenna. But you could very easily be unwelcome." Her glare had the effect of pinning Jenna to the wall and watching her squirm. "I will never forget what you did to Rane or my people but I believe your contrition is genuine. If I didn't, you would not be on this ship. We will be civil to each other and smile and try to work together but cross me or harm anyone on this ship and I will show you what true pain is. Do we understand each other?"

Jenna swallowed hard under the woman's glare. There was a good reason why no one on the ship crossed Reya. "I understand."

Reya forced a pleasant smile. "Good." Her voice assumed a light quality she didn't feel. "Now ladies, you were going to give me--a makeover?" A grimace joined the smile.

Corinne pushed over a cart full of, to Reya, medieval instruments of torture. "You'll love it!"

"Corinne is almost sure you will," said Kirsten, trying to quash a smile at the animal-caught-in-the-crosshairs look on Reya's face.

The militaristic woman tried to look enthusiastic but it was hard as they led her to a chair. Having been in the military most of her life and growing up with a trio of extremely masculine brothers, normal female rituals were alien to her.

Reya sat down hesitantly, wondering if metal clamps were about to shoot out from some hidden recess and restrain her to the chair. Or if she could run now before they did irreparable damage to her image. "This isn't going to hurt, is it?"

She eyed the cart suspiciously as Corinne slid out several trays bursting with objects with suspiciously 'feminine' colours. Reya refrained from pointing out she had always objected to the arbitrary assigning of 'male' and 'female' colours; herself preferring numerous shades of blue.

Cally, deciding she was going to pretend Jenna was invisible, had an amused smile on her lips. "You're a soldier, I'm sure you've had worse."

"I'm not sure about that." There were various shades of lipstick and flat-ended face applicators, and some implements that made her wonder if this was entirely legal. She closed her eyes staunchly, not wanting to witness the upcoming atrocities.

Corinne's brightly melodic voice said, "We can't work with your eyes closed."

Sighing, Reya opened them a sliver and then fully. "Alright, what am I supposed to do now?"

Kirsten said, "Enjoy it?"

Reya shot her a disgruntled look. Kirsten had obviously been hanging around Sester far too much.

Cally placed a supportive hand on her shoulder. "Relax, Reya. This is your party. We won't hurt you. I guarantee that Argus will like it."

"Do you think so?" she asked, suddenly shy.

"I guarantee it."

"Alright."

Cally squeezed a dollop of cream onto her hands, and began to knead Reya's knotted neck muscles. "I'll give you a massage while the others do your face."

Reya wriggled her shoulders and took a deep breath in. She exhaled slowly, her eyes half lidded in enjoyment. "That feels good. Did you learn that on Pleasure City?"

"Some of it." She applied her elbow to the area between her shoulder blades. "The rest I learned for Avon. He…has a lot of aches and pains."

"That still hasn't improved?"

"The progress is slow."

"He must be frustrated."

"He doesn't like…" Cally paused. "We're here to talk about you." With the flat of her hand, she stroked the length of her back from bottom to top, with a firm upwards motion. "How is Argus dealing with having the Wolf in his head?"

"He's frustrated too. But I think he likes the Wolf. They're very much alike."

Corinne asked, "What colour would you like for your face, Reya?"

Reya sighed. "Why don't you pick one, Corinne?"

"You want Corinne to pick a colour?" asked Kirsten in an exaggerated incredulous tone.

"Hey!" objected Corinne.

"Do what you think is best, just don't make it permanent." Reya hoped she wasn't making a mistake.

The two young woman began pulling out various items and placing them on the table. Reya tried to concentrate on the relaxing massage and blocked out whatever they were doing to her face.

After watching them apply various creams and facial masks, Jenna glanced at Cally. She tried to remember what it was like to speak without anger, resentment or bitterness. "Some of these have different scents."

They all stared at her, including Cally.

Corinne said, "Oh, yes! I forgot that." She picked out a bright red lipstick and placed it to her nose. "This one smells like strawberries. Do you want one of these?"

"No," said Jenna. "I meant for Cally."

Cally's cold voice was like a void between them. "I don't need anything from you."

"I was thinking Avon might find it interesting."

"You don't know anything about Avon."

Jenna nodded. "I know I'm the reason why he's blind. I'm only trying to help, Cally. You can reject me but at least listen to what I have to say."

The rejection was at the tip of Cally's lips but she said, "I'm listening."

"Avon can't see but I bet his sense of smell has improved."

"Maybe."

"He might not be able to see your face but he can smell you." Jenna ran her fingers along the trays. "Some of these scents are very sophisticated." She picked out a lip stick, opened up the case and offered it to Cally. "This one gives the impression of a summer's day at the seaside."

Cally hesitated but sniffed shallowly. Bright summer. The warm sun beating down on cool skin. Waves gently lapping on the shore. She took a deeper sniff. "You're right."

"You can use it for Avon."

"Produce a picture for him using smells?"

"That's the idea."

She was reluctant to admit it, but it was a good idea. "I'll…consider it."

"That's all I ask."

“Is there a computer scented one?” Kirsten looked up from applying a face mask.

“That’s not funny,” said Cally. “Avon can be romantic if he wants to be.”

“Really?” asked Reya. “Of course, Argus’s idea of romance is a night on the firing range, complete with candles and two fully charged rifles.”

“Avon gave me a rose once. Of course, it was only an illusion and it was in the nature of a scientific experiment.”

“He gave you a scientific experiment?” Reya’s brows rose. “That’s romantic? I think I like the rifles and candles better.”

“It was a twinned rose from Auron. Something very rare. It symbolizes joined souls.”

“That is romantic.”

“I told you. He can be if he wants to.”

**********

When the makeover contingent was done, they stood back to admire their handiwork.

"Well?" Reya asked impatiently.

Corinne's eyes were wide. "You're…beautiful. I mean you were beautiful before but you're gorgeous now."

Reya's eyes narrowed. "I want a mirror."

Kirsten chuckled. "Are you sure?" She reached into a lower drawer and pulled out a flat reflective screen. "You might faint."

Reya winced. "That bad?"

"Don't listen to her," said Cally. "Corinne's right. You're stunning."

Kirsten handed the mirror to Reya with a smile. "Yes, don't listen to me."

"Argus will be the envy of every man on this ship," said Jenna. "He's going to have to beat them off with a stick."

Reya slowly rotated the mirror up to her face and…nearly dropped it in shock. "Who is this?" She stared at the vision of beauty that stared back at her; the angular cheekbones, the red inviting lips, and the hard eyes that had been softened to a mystery.

Cally put her hand on her shoulder. "That's you."

"But…that's not me. That's someone else." She turned the mirror to different angles, trying to understand this new face.

"It is you. You're beautiful. You always have been. The colours only highlight your best features. But they're all your own."

"I…didn't know I could look like this."

Corinne asked, "Do you like it?"

Reya looked around at the faces in the room. These were her friends. They were here to share the joys and sorrows together. "Yes, I do, Corinne. Thank you. All of you. Now, do I smell chocolate cake and strawberries?"

**********

After the party and as Cally walked Reya back to her cabin, they ran into a staggering Argus singing and howling, carried between Lt. Dain, who was somewhat tipsy and Vila, who could barely keep upright and seemed to be permanently cross-eyed.

All three men ground to a halt and their eyes blinked wildly when they saw them.

"Arroo who is thish lovely…Baxter?" asked Argus.

"It's me, Reya." She felt very self-conscious under the admiring stares of the men.

"Arrrreaya?" He rubbed blurry eyes.

Vila said, "Can't be. She's…pink."

Cally looked at each of their unfocused eyes. "You're all drunk."

Argus, Vila and Dain beamed at her.

Vila said, "I hopsh sho. Wouldn't want…feel like thish and notsh bees drunk."

Argus and Dain both nodded and shook their heads in emphatic agreement.

"You’re boootiful." Argus reached for Reya but managed to miss her by several feet as Dain grabbed him before he fell over.

"Dain, find a cot and have Argus sleep in your room tonight."

“Yes, Commander.”

"But…” Argus's face fell. “You're boootiful."

"It's a custom,” said Cally. “The pair to be bonded does not sleep together the night before,"

"Silly custom." Argus pouted as the Wolf sneezed.

“What’s that on your head?” Reya stared at the crushed fedora.

“S’hat.” Argus shifted it to an even jauntier angle and held his head up proudly. “Wolf likes it.”

“He does, does he?”

“Avon wantsss holo of it.” He nodded and lowered his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “He’s shecret agents.”

“He’s a what? Never mind. Wait here.” Reya disappeared into her cabin and came back out with a pillow and a blanket. “Here take these.”

Argus clutched them to his chest like treasures. “Reya lovsh me.”

“Yes, I do. Very much.”

Argus lifted his head and howled.

“Now be a good Wolf and go to sleep in Lt. Dain’s room. Come back in the morning to get dressed. Alright?”

A big smile brightened his face. “Yesh, Reya.”

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-Two

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

Writing

2009-10-22T06:00:39Z

Hmm, I think I'll do a fic where Blake is finally made to pay for all the evil things he did in the name of being good and the self-serving things he did.

And maybe one where Vila finally has to face the music for betraying everyone in Hostage and trying to dump Avon, Cally and Blake at Star One and Tarrant later, all just to save his own neck. I wonder if that went through Avon's mind in Orbit.

There are far too many fics where Avon is made to pay for his sins. You almost get the idea that he was the only one who did anything bad and the others were all his victims.

Well it's time to have a little parity. Just fair warning. If you don't feel like reading then don't. I'm going to write them anyway.

kalinda001 @ 2009-10-21T13:11:00

2009-10-21T17:15:30Z

I'm trying to type with a dog in my arms. The fire department is here for the annual fire alarm test. Suffice it to say, Gremlin thinks alarms are portents of imminent annihilation so he's currently shaking like a leaf and wants to make sure I will not leave him behind.

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 31

2009-10-20T16:55:41Z

Category: Humour
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: Party time!

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-One

Next Chapter

The festivities started with drinks, or more correctly, alcohol and lots of it.

And hats.

"Is this necessary?" Lt. Dain dangled the tri-cornered, multi-coloured headgear by one corner and well away from his head.

"It's an old Earth custom," Vila said with a straight face.

Avon came towards them, his hand resting on Argus's shoulder. "It's more likely a Vila-intends-to-humiliate-us-all-while-taking-damaging-holos-for-later-usage."

"It's nothing like that." Vila exclaimed, pressing a hand over his heart in a gesture of sincerity, which might have worked if he wasn't trying to suppress a smirk and none too successfully. Dain eyed him suspiciously.

"Here's yours, Avon." Vila extended a black, grey-banded hat - reminiscent of an old-style fedora - and touched the back of Avon's hand with it.

"I'm not wearing anything you're giving me." Avon squeezed Argus's shoulder. "Wolf, to the couch."

"Arrrr." Wolf led the way to the centre of the room, expertly avoiding the crowded space.

"And put on the hat."

"Rrr?" They sat down together.

"It's a human custom."

The creature blew out an exhale. "Silly custom."

"Nevertheless."

Wolf took the hat and jammed it on its head at a jaunty angle.

Vila framed Argus's head between angled fingers and eyed him critically, "That's not half bad. Dashing. Like a secret agent."

Avon made a sound suspiciously close to a snort.

"You should've taken the hat, Avon. Cally might have liked a shot of you in it."

A familiar half-mocking - but saved by its silky quality - voice noted, "Why would Cally want a picture when she has the real thing?"

Avon bristled as his head turned slowly in the direction of the voice. "Vila, I assume you've prepared headgear for all of your guests?" His tone was pregnant with meaning.

"Oh, yeah." He rummaged through his party box and pulled out a droopy star-pointed hat with little bells that jingled. "This is yours." There was a slight apologetic look in his eyes as he handed it to Sester.

Sester accepted the jester hat with a gracious smile. "How appropriate." With careful deliberation, he positioned it on his head, turning the points as if there was a specific angle he was trying to achieve. A broad, infectious and warm smile completed the ensemble. "What do you think?"

Vila's mouth dropped open in awe. "I…that actually looks…" His forehead crinkled in amazement. "It looks good on you. I…don't know how but…"

"What did you give him?" Avon asked, a frown casting a shadow across his face.

"It's a jester's hat."

"A fool's hat?"

"Yeah but…" Vila glanced at Sester.

"What Vila is trying to say…," there was a superior smile on Sester's face that made Wolf snarl, "…is that you can look good in anything, if you know how."

Wolf bared its teeth and rose from the seat like a tide of aggression. Avon put his hand on his arm. “Argus."

Argus shook his head, as if he were trying to shake the water from his hair. “Are you going to keep doing that?”

“When I find it useful.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of.” He sighed and pulled the hat from his head, looking at it dubiously. “Why am I wearing this?”

Avon said with a blank face, “I understand it’s an Earth custom.”

“It’s a...what? I’ve never heard of this.” He wrung the hat in his hands, crushing the brim.

“The Wolf likes it.”

Argus stuck the half-mashed fedora back on his head, in the same jaunty angle as before. “I suppose I’m lucky it wanted to put something on and not take anything off.”

“It was busy.”

“Doing what?”

“You don’t remember?”

Argus hemmed. “I was bored. I tuned out.”

“That explains it.”

“Explains what?”

“The snoring sounds. Wolf said it didn’t make them.”

Argus rolled his eyes ceiling-wards. “You’re making that up.”

The barest of smirks curled Avon’s lips.

“Alright, Vila, let's get this over with.” Argus snagged two drinks from Vila’s tray, one sparkling blue and one light green. “What are the other Earth customs I’ve never heard of?”

He held the drinks up to the light. Light gleamed through them, streams of silver swirled invitingly and the heady smell of alcohol filled his sensitive nostrils. Wolf sneezed. “What's in this?"

"A little of this, a little of that."

Argus eyed him warily.

Sester took the glass that no one else had dared pick, a deep red liquid, like blood, that swallowed the light, its silver streams slithering menacingly throughout. "I don't think he trusts you, Vila." With a challenging smile, and jester's bells tinkling - which jangled on Argus's (and the Wolf's) nerves - , he drained the cup.

Grrr.

Avon stuck his hand out. "Wolf. He's baiting you."

The words came out in a low growl. "I'm not the Wolf."

"Then stop growling."

Grrr.

"Yes?"

Argus brought the blue drink to his lips.

"Wait!" Vila stuck out his hand to stop him but it was too late. Argus quaffed it in two gulps. His eyes went as wide as saucers and he gasped like a man drowning as the liquid burned its way down his throat and raced straight to his head. "W-what is this?"

"I was going to say take it slow."

Avon's voice was like a sliver of ice on naked skin. "What is it?"

Vila winced. "A&S and Denecran brandy."

"Are you insane?" exclaimed Avon, his head turned in the direction of the still drowning man.

Argus straightened up, his eyes slightly glassy. "Everything looks--blue. Is that normal?"

"Is that normal?" Avon's eyes narrowed. "Vila. This is your mess." He turned towards Sester with a snarl. "And yours."

There was an impish smile on Sester's lips as he raised his hands defensively. "I didn't make him do anything. He did the drinking."

Argus's words were slurred. "Reya likes blue. Did you know that?" He looked wistfully into the empty glass.

Avon's voice was firm, like an adult teaching a child. "You've had enough."

"But Avon…"

"Wolf."

The Wolf's soft amber eyes regarded Avon affectionately. "Rrrr?"

"You'd better take over for now."

The Wolf leaned forward and licked Avon on the nose.

Avon pushed him off the couch. The startled Wolf, its reflexes dulled, yelped as it hit the floor.

Argus stared up at Avon. "Why did you do that?"

"You…" Avon wiped his hand across his wet nose.

Sester chuckled. "You licked him."

"I didn't." Argus pushed himself up.

"The Wolf did," said Sester.

Argus looked at the uncooperative off-white ceiling again and shook his head.

Wolf! Didn't I say not to lick people with my tongue?

Arrroooo?

You're drunk. He looked around at the blue-tinted world. The whole ship seemed to be swaying. "I'm…drunk."

Vila grabbed his arm. "You'd better sit down."

There was a commotion by the door as two soldiers wheeled in a towering cake.

Argus asked, "What's this?"

"Have you never been to a bachelor party before?"

Argus stared at the person-sized cake; its layered edges rimmed with elaborate pink and blue swirls, a work of art in icing. "Who did you…?" His mind boggled at the idea that Vila could have persuaded one of the women on the ship to do what was traditional at a bachelor party.

"Just sit back and enjoy it," said Vila as he plopped himself on the couch beside them. All the men took seats in puzzled anticipation as the music began. It was a seductive, enticing melody, tickling their ears, promising delights to come. The melody built to a quick crescendo and lights turned off one by one. Mouths were wet in anticipation. In near darkness, a single bright spotlight hit the cake, making its white surface glare, and from its top…burst a beautiful Corinne with a big smile and arms upraised.

Fully clothed.

All mouths dropped open.

Sester's cocked his head in amusement. "She's beautiful but…isn't something missing? Or rather not missing?"

Avon's ears strained. "What's going on?"

Argus coughed. "It's Corinne. She's very nice."

Sester said, "And fully dressed."

"Ah. Then I haven't missed anything."

The soldiers, led by Lt. Dain, all stood up and began clapping in appreciation as the two who pushed the cake in, helped Corinne to descend from the cake.

Vila said, "I wasn't about to let her dance around naked."

Argus nodded. "I would hope not. That was very nice, Corinne."

"I hope that was alright," said Corinne.

"It was fine. Did you make the cake?"

"I have to go now. I have my own party to go to." She gave Argus a hug. "Have fun." She rushed off.

Argus said, "That was very nice, Vila."

Vila held up both hands. "Wait! Wait! We're not done."

Through the open door, two more soldiers wheeled in another huge cake.

"What's this?" Avon was annoyed that he couldn't see.

"It's another cake, Avon."

The music started again, but this time there was no waiting. A beautiful, longhaired and scantily clad woman erupted from the top of the cake and began dancing sensuously.

Mouths dropped open again. And then there was a loud collective gasp.

It was young Baxter, the nude model from the gym.

The room erupted in laughter.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty-One

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

LJ woes?

2009-10-20T15:29:41Z

I've been having the occasional blank content screens the last couple of days on LJ. Today I got this message after posting a comment.

Error running style: Died in S2::run_code running EntryPage::print(): Database handle unavailable (user: kalinda001; cluster: 1) at /home/lj/cgi-bin/LJ/Subscription.pm line 76

Has anyone else run into this?

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 30

2009-10-18T12:10:21Z

Category: Drama
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: Argus confesses to Avon.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty

Next Chapter

Argus stood outside the door to Avon’s lab, taking deep breaths, trying to rehearse what he was going to say. No matter what he said or how, he knew it was going to be bad. Avon was never going to forgive him for betraying the trust between them. He was starting to feel dizzy, it was now or never. The door slid open at a touch to the control panel.

“Computer, what were the readings...” Avon cocked his head towards the door. “Who’s there?”

“It’s me, Avon.” Argus walked in reluctantly as Avon’s head moved to follow his steps.

“I’ll be done in another hour.” Avon turned back to what he was doing. “Computer, repeat the...”

“That’s not why I’m here.” Argus perched himself at the edge of the workbench. “I need to talk to you.”

“Can’t this wait?” There was irritation in Avon’s voice.

“No. It can’t.”

Avon turned his head to face him. “Well?”

“I’ve done something you’re not going to like.”

Sightless eyes stared at him, making it even harder to do this. He swallowed, trying to wet a dry throat. “When Servalan gave you back to us over Papos, it was because I made a deal with her.”

“You agreed to work together to fight the Andromedans.”

“It wasn’t just that. I…" This was harder than facing a battalion of troopers naked. "…made a private agreement with her.”

Avon’s eyes hardened.

“I agreed to be her agent if she left you alone.”

Avon's lips thinned. It had the effect of a dagger plunging into Argus's heart. "What kind of agent?"

Argus grimaced. "I..." His head bowed. "…agreed to be an assassin for her."

One did not do a wise thing.

I know that Wolf.

Avon's dark eyes fixed in his direction. The silence was deafening. "You're a fool."

"I know. I shouldn't have done it. I was wrong. It wasn't my decision to make. I…" Even if he fell on his knees, it wouldn't help. "…betrayed your trust. I broke my promise. I have no excuse." He felt horrible but it was only what he deserved.

Avon continued 'staring' in his direction, making Argus feel even guiltier by the minute. “Avon, say something.”

“What is there to say? You’re the one making all the decisions.” There were slivers of sarcasm in every word.

Argus winced as they burrowed deep into his flesh. “I’m sorry. I don't deserve to be a leader. If I cannot keep trust with people who are important to me, then…I should step down.”

What is one doing?

Don't stop me, Wolf. I have to do this.

"You've said that before." Avon's lips formed a sneer. "It obviously didn't mean anything."

The slivers pierced Argus's heart. He felt sick and his head hung. "I know you don't believe me, Avon. I can't blame you after what I've done. I'm not much of a friend or a leader." His eyes sought Avon's face, wanting the other man to hit him, to yell at him, to forgive him, but he knew it was a selfish need. He sighed heavily. "You deserve someone better. Someone who won't lie to you. I'm such a fool, as you keep telling me. I'll leave this ship. It's always been yours. If you could drop me off at a neutral port, I'd appreciate it."

Avon was still "staring" at him without expression.

Argus slid from the edge of the table. "I'll gather the others together. Tell them what I've told you."

"I will speak to the Wolf."

"What?" Argus's eyes widened in shock.

"The Wolf." Avon's voice was curt.

Wolf? Avon wants to…

One hears and understands.

The Wolf opened its eyes. "Avon-Alpha wishes to speak?"

Avon's brows lifted slightly at the ease at which the Wolf was able to assume control. "Did you understand our conversation?"

"One understands the words."

"But not the meaning?"

The Wolf cocked its head. "Human creatures are strange."

"In what way?"

"One is Alpha. Until one is sickly or can no longer fight those who would challenge."

"I am Alpha in this pack."

The Wolf dipped its muzzle in acknowledgement. "Avon-Alpha." It paused. "Argus-Alpha."

"Ah. In a wolf pack, there is only one?"

"The pack has one Alpha."

"How did Argus explain this anomaly?"

"Avon-Alpha is…a friend."

"You do not understand the concept?"

"Wolf has pack. Wolf has Reya-mate."

Avon's eyebrows rose slightly. "Wolves do not have the concept of friendship?"

"One does not."

"But you accept me as an Alpha of this pack?"

The Wolf nodded. "Avon-Alpha."

"Why?"

The creature sniffed. "Argus-Alpha."

"You accept me because Argus does?"

"One accepts." The Wolf wriggled in the clothes that itched. It tore at the clasps, ripping the top ones.

Avon tilted his head at the sound. "What are you doing?"

"Coverings itch one."

"You're taking them off?" Despite himself, an amused smirk turned up one corner of his lips.

The creature yanked the shirt off, dropping it to the ground. "Off."

"Returning to our earlier conversation. Do you know why Argus made the deal with Servalan?"

"Avon-Alpha is one's friend."

"I thought you didn't understand the concept?"

"One does. Now."

"Because of what Argus did with Servalan?"

"Arrrr."

"And because of what he is doing now?"

"Alpha would not do this."

"But a friend would?"

Wolf studied his face. "Avon-Alpha understands."

"Perhaps."

The Wolf gave a single bark of laughter.

A tinge of a smile touched Avon's lips. "Let me speak to Argus."

"Avon."

"You heard?"

"Yes. I don't understand though." He looked down at the discarded tatters on the ground and grimaced with irritation.

"You don't need to." Avon fell silent, his mind rapid with thought and decisions. "You're trying to make a grand gesture by leaving?"

"I…" Argus sighed in resignation. "No. I just think you'll be better off without me."

"You are not giving us a choice." Avon leaned forward. "You are not giving me a choice."

"I…" Argus's shoulders slumped as the implication hit him. "I did it again. I'm sorry, Avon. I didn't mean to. I wasn't thinking of that."

"You never do." He 'stared' in Argus's direction for a few moments. "Give me a choice."

The Wolf shook its head in puzzlement and blew out a breath of confusion.

Stop that. Argus's voice became formal. "Avon, do you want me to go?"

"That is not the choice."

"I don't…Avon, I don't want to be leader. I don't deserve it. Not after what I did."

"That is not your choice."

"You…you're taking the choice away from me?"

"Do you object?"

"Of course I do!" He looked over at Avon's harsh face. "No. I did it to you. You have every right to take it from me."

"That isn't why."

Argus exhaled forcefully. "Talking to you is like talking to Ses…"

"Don't say it."

"And just as frustrating." Argus frowned. "Alright, what do you want from me?"

"Continue."

"You still want me to be your partner?" His brows knitted.

"Continue leading the others."

"But not you?"

"Wolf was right, there can only be one Alpha in a pack."

"But you're the Alpha."

"And you."

"Alright, there are two of us. I still don't get what you want." Argus sure he was going to get a headache.

One's head hurts.

"What was our original agreement?" asked Avon.

The tension had eased somewhat but Argus knew there was more. No single conversation would be able to rebuild their trust. "We will lead together."

"The odious tasks will be yours."

"Thanks a lot."

"That is my condition."

"So you have all the fun and I get everything else?"

"Do you accept?"

Argus had not expected this. "Is that what you want?"

"Does it matter?"

"You know it does."

"Then yes." Avon reached out to the touchpad and turned off the modelling unit. "Were you going to leave without the Commander?"

Argus slapped a hand to his forehead. "I'm an idiot."

"You have a habit."

"I would have asked her."

"She will be relieved to know that."

"Now you're just mocking me."

A meagre smile spread across Avon's face. "You surprise me."

Argus sighed. "Can you tell me why you're willing to let me stay?"

Avon hesitated, his sightless eyes boring into the spot where Argus's voice emanated from. "You gave no excuses. Others would have."

"And if I had, you would have dropped me on the next neutral planet? Without courtesy of the teleport?"

"We'll never know." There was no smile on Avon's face.

"There's something else you need to know."

"I need to know everything."

Argus nodded. "Yes. The Wolf. I think Sester was right. It wasn't the Thaarn."

"That much was apparent."

"You knew?"

"I deduced. It was implausible the Thaarn would have implanted such a complete personality in a short period of time."

"I think Servalan was able to use the programming. She controlled me."

Avon sat up abruptly, leaning forward. "Was able to?"

"Yes. But not anymore. I think…" His forehead crinkled. "…it has to do with the Wolf. The Thaarn's machine separated us. The conditioning wasn't designed to work that way. When Servalan tried to use a light flash to activate it, the Wolf came out and told her to stop. She couldn't control me anymore."

"You've been speaking to Servalan without telling me?" There was a dangerous tinge in Avon's voice.

"I'm telling you everything now, Avon."

"Go on."

"Yes, I've been speaking to her directly under a secure protocol."

"How many people have you killed for her?"

"I never killed anyone I did not agree to. That was part of the arrangement."

One corner of Avon's lips rose in cynicism.

"Yes I know." Argus exhaled noisily. "I only killed one person for her, Sevisia."

Avon's brows lifted in surprise.

"She didn't give me a reason. I'm sure it was for some nefarious purpose, but I didn't ask. I didn't mind killing him."

"Is there anything else you've been keeping from me?"

"Not that I can think of." He glanced at Avon, glad the other man couldn't see that his shirt was off again. "I'm going to have to tell the others."

"A modified version."

"Servalan was not happy I terminated our arrangement."

"You will include me in your next communication."

Argus looked sharply at him. "You want me to contact her again?."

Avon smiled and a corresponding wolf-like grin appeared on Argus's face.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Thirty

Next Chapter

From the Ends to the Beginning Story Index

kalinda001 @ 2009-10-17T20:26:00

2009-10-18T00:27:25Z

B7 The Ends: The Self Divided - Chapter 29

2009-10-16T20:59:49Z

Category: Drama
Rating: Gen
1st Story of From the Ends to the Beginning

Introduction: Jenna is in a 'mood' and takes it out on Avon and Lt. Dain. Avon and Vila have a discussion. Argus contacts Servalan.

Previous Chapter

Chapter Twenty-Nine

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Jenna punched the numbers into the keypad, imagining all manner of unpleasant things for the man who seemed to be staring at what she was doing, but couldn't possibly be. "Stop staring at me!"

Avon cocked his head. "Who are you talking to?" He hadn't heard anyone enter his lab.

"You!" She entered the last number with a stab of viciousness. "And yes, I know you're blind! And yes, I know it's my fault!"

"You're tired." He felt the panel in front of him and flicked a switch.

"Stop pretending!" She didn't know why she was yelling but it felt good.

"There is nothing wrong with my ears." He noticed people had a tendency to speak louder to him even though he was only blinded. It had been amusing at first, then annoying but now he generally ignored it. Jenna's outburst was different.

"Stop pretending you care."

"It's a matter of self-interest." Avon's sightless eyes turned to her. "If you make a mistake, I would have to start over."

"I knew it!" It was annoying that he couldn't benefit from her glare.

"It must be comforting." Sarcasm briefly curled Avon's lips. "Have you finished?"

"Yes, I've bloody well finished!" She lifted the data pad to throw it at him but slammed it down on the table instead.

"Good. Once you've had some rest, I have another file for you to input."

"You…" She was feeling hot under the collar.

"Yes?" Avon's face was impassive but she imagined he was being insufferably smug underneath.

She shoved back on her chair and got up. "Nothing! I'll be back."

"Don't take too long." He bent over his task again. "Computer. Bring the last data model online."

Jenna glared at him but Avon no longer seemed to be paying attention to her.

"Fine!" She stalked towards the door and crashed into Vila. "Ahh! Why don't you look where you're going?" The whole world seemed to be against her today.

Vila rubbed his forehead. "What did I do?"

"Nothing!" Jenna's look dared him to say something before she clomped out loudly.

"What's with her?" Vila asked as he came over to where Avon sat in front of the computer. "Did you do something?"

Avon straightened up, his face blank but tension crinkling the corner of his eyes at the new interruption. "We were working."

"That would put me in a bad mood too," Vila chuckled good naturedly. Not even a huge bruise on his forehead - he could feel it growing as they spoke, a big red one - could dampen his spirits today.

"Are you here for a useful reason?"

"Oh, yeah. Are you coming tonight?" The event being Argus's pre-bonding party, though Vila liked the old name, a bachelor party. He wasn't sure why they used to call it a 'stag' party.

"Yes." Avon turned towards the computer again.

Vila beamed. "That's alright then, see you tonight." He turned to go and then whirled around and stared at Avon.

Avon was becoming quite good at interpreting sounds and before Vila could get a question out, he said, "You want to know why?"

"You're…" Vila's face scrunched up at Avon's oddly social behaviour. His eyes brightened. "You're curious about the wolf?"

A smile pulled at the corner of Avon's lips but his voice was expressionless. "A scientific curiosity."

The small movement did not escape Vila's sharp eyes. "You don't fool me, Avon."

"I wasn't trying to." He turned to his work. "Computer, run tests…"

"Why do you do that?" Vila pulled up a chair and studied him. He found that without his eyes, Avon wasn't as careful about keeping his emotions from appearing on his face. Maybe it was easy to forget if you couldn't see anyone else's reactions either.

Avon's jaw tightened when he heard the movement of the chair. "I'm trying to test a different algorithm for the Shade antidote."

It didn't answer Vila's question but the mentioned of Shade robbed some of the wind from his sails. "Oh." He leaned over to look at the data model. "You found anything yet?"

Avon turned dim eyes to stare at him. "I might if you stop interrupting."

"Alright, alright. I know when I'm not wanted." Vila got up from the chair with a sniff. Before he left, he said, "You know, it wouldn't kill you to admit you're coming because Argus is your friend. I wouldn't tell anyone."

**********

Jenna stalked the corridors like a predator, determined to pick a fight with the next person who was unfortunate enough to cross her path. The Thaarn's machine had brought out some unpleasant truths about herself. She had nothing, no one on this ship liked her and her position as Avon's assistant - more like personal slave - was irritating and demeaning.

She was older than any of the women on the ship, and she looked it. And those damned soldiers still insisted on calling her "ma'am"!

Lt. Dain appeared at the end of the corridor, walking with the confidence of a young man in his prime. His head nodded politely as he passed her, "Ma'am."

Jenna rounded on him like a panther pouncing on a prey. "Don't you dare call me that!"

Dain's eyebrows rose high on his head. "Ma…I didn't mean to offend. My apologies."

"You don't have to be so excruciatingly polite, if you don't like me say so!"

The level-headed young man stared at Jenna's wildly flashing eyes. His manner was calm and firm, like the competent lieutenant he was. "You're upset."

"And don't be so damned patronizing!" She planted her hands at her waist, dug in her feet and glared at him.

He took in her posture at a glance. There were many ways to deal with this kind of situation but Jenna was a civilian who was not under his command. Not to mention she was a woman who seemed intent on taking a bite of someone.

Dain glanced at his black-strapped chronometer. "I can meet you in the gym in an hour. I have something to do right now."

Jenna was almost screaming at him. "And why would I want to do that?" She needed to explode at someone but the lieutenant refused to rise to her bait.

His voice was calm. "You need to work out your aggressions."

Her voice dripped sarcasm. "And you think a workout will help?"

"A workout with me."

"And what's so special about you?"

"Nothing at all, Jenna. But I'm offering. I suggest you accept."

He was being so helpful that it was deflating her anger. "This had better be good."

"That depends on how hard you can punch."

**********

Argus prowled the empty flight deck, like a sinewy beast on silent padded feet.

Zen reported, "Communication channel established."

"Put it onscreen, Zen."

The Federation President's eyes shone with anticipation. "Commander. How good of you to call."

Argus was in a growling mood. "You wanted this meeting."

"So I did, but it's always a pleasure talking to you."

"Don’t expect me to return the sentiment."

Servalan smiled.

One does not like this woman, growled the Wolf.

That makes two of us.

"What deviousness are you up to now, Servalan?"

The screen flashed. There was a howl of pain in his head as he put his hand to his eyes. His mind opened up to the memories that had been denied to him.

The Wolf snarled at the screen. "One will not do that again."

A cold - very unfamiliar - shiver ran up Servalan's spine. She backed away from the screen before she realized what she was doing. Argus had been menacing before but this was different. "I don't know what you mean."

The amber eyes flashed. "One will not make fire on the screen."

"Fire?" The eyes seemed to bore straight into her soul. Anger rose up. Servalan was not used to being intimidated. "Don’t forget yourself, Commander."

Argus blinked and his eyes closed for a second. When he opened them again, there was undisguised anger. "You've been playing with my mind."

"I don't know what you…"

"Skip it, Servalan. You can't fool me anymore. I know what you've been doing."

"Do you, now?" Her voice was smooth.

"You've been using me. Controlling me." Fiery eyes glared at her, the slightly amber glow was disturbing. "I was a fool to make an agreement with you. That is now over."

It was Servalan's turn to be angry. "You don't know what you're saying. I can take Avon back any time I want. The only way to keep him safe is…"

The Wolf's growl started at the base of Argus's throat and burst into a roar. "I will keep Avon safe!" His voice lowered to a deadly rumble that seemed to rock the walls. "If you touch him, we will kill you."

"Don't try to threaten me."

Argus's eyes were like fire. "You know it was not a threat."

Servalan was like ice to his fire as she pushed down an involuntary shiver. "You're making a serious mistake, Commander. There is still an alien incursion to deal with."

There was a pause.

What do you think, Wolf?

One must kill the enemy.

I agree, but there are still the aliens to deal with.

"Very well," said Argus. "That is the only part of the agreement that will remain."

Servalan was confused by the unexpected turn of events, a state she did not like. "It would be interesting if Avon discovered our little agreement."

Grrr. "Forget it, Servalan. You no longer have any control over me. I will tell Avon myself."

Servalan stared at him across the screen, her eyes mystified. "It appears you won this round, Commander."

Argus's eyes narrowed at her choice of words.

"You will regret it." She reached forward and the screen went black.

She must be killed, stressed the Wolf.

Argus's fists were clenched. "I know."

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