"Loner Days" (Rynk Mini-Series No. 2)

Loner Days


Introduction
Supreta was named after the group called The Pretas. It was composed of three travelling nations which formed on the brink of extinction. The first group, and largest, was known as The Pers’es of a country we think to be translated as Pers’al. This group was strong, but outgoing. The second were the Irnd’as, from what we translate as Indesya. These were somewhat smaller than the Pers’es, but still large, and believed in taking all from others, and accepting no others into their group. The third were the Scats- Do NOT laugh at that! … as I was saying, the Scats came from what we translated as Scotland, though others speculate that they may have originated from a place known as Engrinks. This group was much smaller, but desperate for support.



The Pers’es were willing to accept the Scats in a brief partnership, but the Irnd’as considered this to be a growing threat to their lives. With the threat of the Irnd’as attacking, the Pers’es were forced to decline the Scats’s plea, but the three groups allowed each other to live and travel near to each other, as it was good for warding off other travelling nations. This went on for years up to 0090. A nation much larger than any of the other groups was guarding a precious food-source, and planned to destroy all three of the travelling nations.



The Irnd’as wished to have nothing to do with the other nations, but eventually they agreed to join forces, and together they destroyed the giant nation. In the wake of the battle many were killed from the three nations, and food was running scarce, but the leaders of the nations refused to take anything from the giant nation they had destroyed.



The Pers’es refused out of guilt for the dishonor that would cause to the souls and families they destroyed. The Irnd’as refused out of strength and personal honor, with a need to show their ability to survive and thrive without the aid of others. The Scats wished to take from the battle a reward or medicine, but out of respect for the other nations, they decided to leave it.



The three nations took only what was the original prize, the food-supply that was untouched by the giant nation. This led to the formation of our National Pledge. “We do not take, for they may need, respect opposing enemy. We do not give, for need we too, may weakness cast no shadow on you. We do not spit on saviors’ acts, respect the wishes of those who save you. Respect, Give not, Take not, stand tall, and never let them see us fall.”



As you can expect, the three nations merged together creating the Pretas. With alike-moral-stances, they continued travelling. They would fight for or against many other nations, but neither give, nor take, rewards. In the year of 0393 they stopped at the Banshee Mobian Empire that was about to be destroyed, which would become the country we live in today; Supreta, the Su meaning “grounded” back then. That however is for a different time.



“Now I’m going to put you all into different groups, and each one will focus on one of the three groups. You will go over Their strengths, weaknesses, and future influences. Your workbooks will have more information about that. You will all have a week to come up with the assignment so I would suggest staying in contact with each other.”  {Well that’s aggravating.}



The students were moved into various corners of the faded-peach-walled schoolroom. Those near windows were forced to close the blinds as to avoid being distracted by the outdoors. They were almost completely evenly-gendered and distributed, with the ages being equal as well. The class had five sixteen-year-olds, six fifteen-year-olds, twelve fourteen-year-olds, and thirteen thirteen-year-olds. Even numbers were the goals, but despite having odd-numbered ages, nine per-group was still possible.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The most notable species was human and wolf, usually arctic wolf at a number of six, and very tan-skinned humans, at a number of also six. There were five felines in total of species, and a few foxes, but no reptiles.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Both genders of students wore required attire, with the ages having the Supretan number for their age on their scarves, which would tuck into slabs on their shoulders—right for girls, left for boys—and the uniforms simply being jackets over their own attires. Aside from this, many students usually zipped up their jackets to conceal provocative tops, as many members of the youth were extremely rebellious to the state-moral-code.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The students passed around their contact-information, and those that were unable to give this were informed of meeting places for research. {Thank goodness for that…}  Once finished, the children received their personal homework, and were sent out. And now we arrive at the student who does not belong in this school; the illegal.

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Sequence One
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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She looked like a non-striped lynx. She was a lynx in fact, but most simply considered her a simple cat of sorts. She was pale brown-tan completely, with green eyes that had semi-faded pupils. Her hair was long and black, covering half of her left eye. Her arms were large, as well as her feet, though she herself was short, even for her age of thirteen. She had the same uniform as the others, wearing a grey top, and grey pants underneath. She had no need to make herself stand out.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx gathered her books and left the class with the other students. She clutched her stomach while it growled at her, attempting to seem inconspicuous. One of other students, a mobian wolf-girl, asked “Hungry right? All these introductions get bored fast.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She nodded back “Yep…” {I don’t know if I should be more social about this or not. If I get too social she might try to befriend me… if I actually go through with this project that might need to happen… I’ll see what happen with this.}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The wolf-girl moved on without a thought, but the lynx remained without eye-contact. Maybe she could have hidden through that entire schooling-period if not for the high-price of the pigment-changers given. {Five weeks} She thought. {Lasts five weeks each time. If I want to keep this I need to get more Purmi… if I end up wanting this.}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was not fond of the idea; walking, talking, eating, around people that would turn on her the moment they discovered her species. However… as long as she remained disguised she was safe and could eat. The lynx had wanted the chance to visit Ytaris, the Nictrela country, but Purmi would not get here there. She had to leave Supreta though, at one point or another.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Lunch was ending and the lynx was rinsing down her meal with a drinking-fountain’s contents. {If I’m staying here a while I need to get to the library soo-}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Whoa!” A voice yelped to her left. The lynx’s head spun towards that direction, slamming her forehead into the fountain-spout in the process. She turned off the water spraying her face as she growled and hissed. Her eyes were squinting and could only make out a male figure standing in front of her. “What…?” She weakly asked while rubbing her head.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Are you bruised?” The boy asked.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Wh- Oh.” She rubbed her head some more. “I don’t know, maybe.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“N-no, your arm!” He corrected. The lynx’s oversized ears shot upward, nearly scraping against an air-vent. Both her arms shot up to eye-level. They were meant to be completely tan, a pale brown-tan, like her main fur-color, but small blotches of black began to surface. {Five weeks…}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, lots of pai- I have to go.” She dashed past the student, and through the school-campus in search of the nearest bathroom. It took longer than she wanted but she made it, and soon emptied the premises with a loud “OUT!”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Few students protested and within two minutes, nearly twenty students were standing outside of the girls’ restroom, some to release bladders, others with concern, and others with suspicion. A teacher walked up to the door knocking on it firmly. “Hello? What happened, are you alright?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Those lying- how am I supposed to get out of-}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Who’s in there?” The teacher asked to one of the front-standing students.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I think her name is Emis.” The teenager replied. “She just shoved everyone out and locked the door.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Without a key? What did she use?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The student shrugged.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Emis?” The teacher called out again. “Miss Emis? Please come out.” She turned to a different student near the edge of the crowd. “Go get one of the monitors so we can unlock this door.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The child nodded and dashed away.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{No windows, stripes coming back, one way out.}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Move back everyone!” The teacher ordered, with a few of the students aiding her in pushing the crowd away from the door. Once the crowd widened, the woman moved to the door, knocking again. “Please, say something. Are you alright? Anything.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{It’s worn off already!? Ugh! ... Fine; taking the direct route out. Gotta be fast.}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“The monitor is here, Science Tiri.” The returning student panted out upon his return with a tall armor-suited man behind him.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The teacher moved back as the monitor held up a small metal plate to the door, causing the lock to begin glowing. Eventually a clicking noise went off. It was unlocked.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Stay back everyone.” He ordered while reaching for the handle.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{… Sparta.}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The door was nearly knocked off of its hinges, slamming an imprint on to the wall next to it. The crowd gasped, some screaming, as the transformed figure stood at the doorway, one foot out after kicking the door open, both arms open with claws unsheathed, and a low hiss emitting from her vocal cords.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Moon-curved stripes could clearly be seen on her arms, ears, and face, with glowing-blue pigments fading in and out with each breath she took. Slowly looking up to the audience before her, eyes now a radiating turquoise irises, and blue pupils, a small chuckle escaped her. “The looks on your faces…”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Before anyone could react, she leapt above their heads, sticking to the ceiling above before dashing through the hallway. Soon many students began to follow as an alert sounded. She heard them screaming over and over as she zipped away, “Hellborn! Hellborn!”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Taking a turn to her left, she noticed that the windows were already locked down with a thick metal covering. She would need to go through one of the lower sections of the school. A staircase lay in front of her, with a student in front of it.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hellborn!” He yelled, pointing directly at her. The lynx dropped down directly in front of him, hissing out “That’s right!” before swatting him forward, sending the student into the window, then back down to the staircase. By the time he collapsed on the ground, they lynx was already a story downward on the stairs.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As she sped through the hallways the students began to change into adults, and those adults began to change into armored and weapon-holding adults. Those adults began to fire at her. At the moment they had a good chance of hitting her since she ran on the ceiling, and they on the ground. She needed to make it harder.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She dropped down, slamming both feet on to the head of one of the adults, before back-flipping over to one of the chasers behind her. Both fell in their respected direction as the lynx landed on the ground in a crouching-position. With her at such close range with the others, shooting would endanger hurting one of their comrades, so they would now have to resort to hand-to-hand combat.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Her arm was grabbed from behind, something she could not tell at first before lunging forward. A wince of pain from the jolt came swiftly to her before the lynx spun around, grabbing the man’s arm, and spinning him to the side into a wall, thus releasing her arm. Two came from both directions now, so she quickly spun to a sideways position, and leapt upward, performing a split-kick to both.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She hated using splits as a way to attack. It stung her, and caused her nerves to become fuzzy for a moment, but the lynx would be fine for now. She made her way through the hordes of security, but her stamina would not go forever.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Luckily she had acquired three of the weapons the security-guards held. Each held six rounds of different ammunition. These were Hellborn-killers, meant to drill through Banshee Bones, which were made of metal. One of the settings involved explosives, which would work well against her objective.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Finding a secondary window to her escape, the lynx fired repeatedly with each gun as the chasers were busy trying to ram through a door she barricaded. The first round of explosive-bullets merely caused the force-field around the metal-covering to disintegrate for a time, so she moved on to the second. A hole was made but it was small, too small even for her.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The third increased the hole’s size, but still it was not large enough. It left many secondary-holes around. She would need to break the connections of these holes for an escape. Clutching one of the holes tightly, the lynx began to tug. At first it did nothing, but she began to feel it give. Unfortunately it stopped after an inch and would go no further. {… Out.} She began pushing now. It bent forward. Next she went in again, then out again, then in, and out, and finally it snapped.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The door was rammed through now, but she needed one more connection broken for it to be escapable. The pounding of the men’s running sent the lynx up to the ceiling again as they all crowded around the window, instantly realizing what she was trying to do.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Line up.” She smirked. They were all confused by this statement, but soon discovered what she was referring to as the lynx swung forward, slamming her foot into the front man, which in turn shoved the next man against the window.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The first man collapsed from the impact, lying on the floor in pain. With all these men crouched together, they were not able to scatter in time to avoid her attacks, and soon they all fell in a pile.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She took one of the men’s weapons and shot a few more rounds at the window-covering, causing it to leave a fairly large hole. {Finally.} She looked outward, seeing a nearby building she could land on, then jumped forward.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As she leapt however, a large weight clamped around her waist. One of the men was still conscious. The two were falling to their death, and there was no chance of reaching the other building at this point. This man wanted to kill himself if it meant killing the Hellborn, but the lynx had other plans.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She dug her hands into the wall, her claws heating up quickly as they scaled downward before slamming into the cement below, both damaged, neither dead. Since the lynx was on top however, she remained conscious.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx looked over the man, contemplating whether she should take his life. {… Not again… not right now.}  Instead, raising the man’s hair, the lynx clawed a symbol of a moon on his forehead. He was awoken by the sudden pain, and attempted to reach up and grab her, but the lynx stopped her foot against his arm, then her other foot against his chest to hold him down.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">With his free hand he reached out to grab her. She slammed her teeth on to fingers, cracking them off instantly before spitting them out to the side. The man was obviously screaming at this point, but the lynx covered his mouth. “Shut it.” She hissed. “Your alive because you are going to remember me. My name is Rynk, and I’m the Hellborn who let you live.”

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Sequence Two
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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Only three hours ago a disguised Banshee was caught infiltrating Highest-Academy Intraments, a prestigious school and third in security-ranking of this state. According to students who claim to have interacted with her, she seemed to have been hide to fit in though we have discover evidence of otherwise.”  The reporter casually walked over to a victim laying atop a table. “Sir, can you tell us what happen?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It had carve a moon on my head, then bit my fingers off! That’s what happen! Said its name was Rynk.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The reporter turned back to the camera. “Some of you may not know, but this particular Hellborn also has gone under the name of ‘Demon-Steel’ as part of an elite-terrorist-group known as ‘Heavy Metal’ who three months prior attack an End-Ga Business-station. It was thought that the group had dissolved as both the leader and one tech-member were found dead the day of the attack, but this attack could suggest that this ‘Rynk’ meant to infiltrate the school as a means to plan an attack for the remaining members. Law-Enforcement has decided to place the school under lockdown and watch despite there being no fatal causalities.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Got herself founded.” A Television-watcher noted. He was human, at medium height, with a  scraggly sand-paper grey-beard, a black scrunched-up hat, a black coat, and dark jeans. His skin was incredibly pale, and he spoke in a Scottish accent. He was sitting in a messy room, with four television screens in front of him, and three computers to his left.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The room itself was large and cold. It being winter made that perfectly logical, but even in the winter-season it still seemed colder than it should be.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A second man, younger than the first forty-one year-old, more near his twenties, with an equally scraggly beard, but a much less square face, much taller, and wearing grey and black with a red-striped scarf, and orange for hair both facial and uncovered by a lack of hat, walked over; the sound of a door slamming followed by a glass-like clank, acting at the same time as his footsteps. He held a dripping beverage, brown, in his hand. “Which her- oh, the lynx. That was dumb of her. They catch her?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No…”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Y-you sound worried… You did something,” The younger male moved to a door at their left, latching it repeatedly, “she’s coming back to us now isn’t-“ *thud*  The door cracked a bit forward but remained latched.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Whad’ya want, Rynk?” The younger asked in a tuned-tone of irritation.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“To make you hurt… y… you…” The lynx tuned back from behind the door.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I have a name, y’know.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is it Mancrez Idolza?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then you can move aside and not get hurt.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Can’t we talk first?” The older male yelled over from his chair.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ha!” Rynk replied. “Just ripter first and we’ll talk.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The younger peeked at the hole made by the kick, meeting eyes with the angered lynx. “C’mon, girl… please? Place is messed enough as it is.”  After hearing a sigh of what he hoped was agreement, the younger shoved the door closed and unlatched it. Unfortunately he misunderstood the intention of the sigh. As soon as the last latch was unhooked, the door slammed open with the knob hitting the younger in the stomach.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk leapt forward, claws out and poised to jab into the flesh of Mancrez. While in mid-air her leg was grabbed-hold-of, and she found herself bashing into the dirty-carpet floor face-first. “Just wait.” The younger groaned out, walking past her in a hunch, rubbing his stomach with a cringing lip.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx rose up, controlling herself from hissing only so that she could spit out the pieces of dust and lint from her mouth. “Your little pot- *pweh!*-POTION, lasted six hours. You told me one vial goes for five-weeks and it wasn’t like I enjoyed screaming for ten minutes when I injected that one.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Happens.” Idolza shrugged, turning to face her. “What I’m concerned is you killing some of the only people in this country willing to supply Hellborns. ‘Sides, we can’t say for sure how it’ll react to different Banshees. They adapt to it remember? And I don’t even know how it would last on you.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, I’m sorry, guess I forgot about you telling me that before I paid you.” She hissed back while still spitting at the side.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Do… you want some water for that?” The younger asked.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk tried to stay hostile but nodded with an irritated grunt, her previously erect ears flopping sideways for a moment. The younger walked off.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Idolza raised his arms in a defeated-sigh. “What do you want, Rynk? Little girl fighting against the world; if you’re going this alone you need to handle interactions better.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, you’re right.” She chuckled forcefully. “Should’ve bitten off YOUR fingers as an incentive.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You might be trained, you might be danger-“ Rynk’s palm pressed against his hand, her now claw-sheathed fingers digging in to his cheeks.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“AM…” She hissed. “or are. Don’t ever say otherwise.” She let go.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Whether you are or not, does that matter? You couldn’t have taken out everyone in that school, you were trying to escape. You may be danger, kid, but you aren’t high-ranking danger. ‘Sides, you kill me, and I don’t even wanna think of all the people who will kill you… where…” Idolza turned towards the direction the younger walked past before turning back to Rynk. “Mind if I check what’s taking?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes.” She narrowed her eyes. He raised a glowing-blue long-nozzle-rifle, pointed at her forehead.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Now?”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk kept silent, still glaring, but did not move. Idolza walked out of sight. Fifteen second passed before she decided to chase after the human, but not five steps into her search a gunshot sounded, and a large thud echoed its passing. {Did he just kill his partner?}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Deciding to cautiously investigate now, Rynk climbed to the ceiling, laying belly-up as she slowly crawled forward. The bang came from the kitchen area of the grovel-like housing-area, where Idolza was now standing in, closing the refrigerator door next to the younger’s collapsed body.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx-girl leaped at Idolza’s head from behind, thinking she was unnoticed but had she been watching Idolza’s right hand curving clockwise she would have realized that he was well aware of her location, and thus he promptly she the lynx, sending an electric current through her which moved through her body and around her head, sending Rynk into a daze.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She collapsed on the ground, groaning lightly while limp. “Your bones can protect you for the most part, directing the electricity, but not when it gets to your skull.”  The lynx didn’t feel the pain of impact, but everything went dark regardless when the rear of the gun slammed against the side of her head.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Где ?” (Where)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Говорит… ‘Mas’Hal’.” (Says ... 'Mas'Hal')

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mas’Hal, Egra?” (Mas’Hal, Egra?)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Правильно так.” (Correct)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Am I tied up?}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Вы хотите это все еще ?” (You want it still?)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Хм ... Она не выглядит Ад – родился.” (Hmm ... It does not look like a hell – born)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{That… Those’r Nekair words...}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“О, вы не любите смешанные - породы ? Она имеет полосами и посмотреть на ушах !” (Oh, you do not like mixed - breed? It has stripes and look at the ears)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Хм ... Уши являются приятная особенность .” (Hmm ... The ears are a nice feature)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Flaggin’… how do… ва-… ванная…Should’ve read more of that book… something’s holding my hands still. If I could look over...}

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Так сделать you хотите это?” (So do you want it?)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ну, я не могу сказать нет, не сейчас. Мы увидим, как хорошо она ярмарки, но я хочу свои деньги назад , если это превращается в проблему .” (Well, I can not say no , not now. We'll see how well it fairs, but I want my money back , if it becomes an issue)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Как вы думаете, вы можете принимать решение что ? Вы хотели один из них. Вы знаете риски. Я не собираюсь платить, потому что вы были неудовлетворены .” (Do you think you can decide that ? You want one of them. You know the risks . I'm not going to pay, because you were dissatisfied)

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Хорошо, вы выиграете. Вот .” (Okay, you win. Here you go.)

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The sliding of items scraping against each other rings in Rynk’s ears as she waits for the transaction to finish. {Slavers, huh? Can’t get out of these cuffs; must be specia- whoa! Hey! Who’s pullin’ me?!] Her eyes flashed open, intending to be a brief second, but kept awake after noticing the surroundings.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk found herself in a snowy parking-lot atop a large metal pan before being gently picked up by someone who was now holding her in his arms and carrying the young lynx to a long white car. He was near his thirties it seemed, an extremely tall grey echidna with large arms and a strong grip. His eyes were a contrasting orchid-color, being the only other parts standing out except for his dark grey clothing. The lynx had a brief moment of blush but immediately after it turned into disgust. She had many ideas of what was going to happen where she was headed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This caused the hybrid to cringe uncontrollably, bringing the attention of the echidna, who looked down to the lynx for a moment before shrugging it off and placing her in the backseat of the car, sitting opposite her as a driver drove them to the highway.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Slowly Rynk opened a slit of one eye, making sure her lids didn’t pop open. She needed to make sure the angle she struck from was perfect. The echidna did not seem to be looking at her. He was more preoccupied with the windows of this limousine. Nothing appeared to be in his hands but Rynk felt his grip; she did not want to have this turn to an endurance fight. Unless she managed to use her leg-muscles, she would not be able to fight against him.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was laying on her side, facing him obviously, with her cuffed hands at her front, and not behind her back. {Odd} she thought. {Whatever; easier for me.}  Slowly, combining occasional faint groans with shrugs, Rynk bent one leg back, placing her foot at the base of the cushioned seat behind her. She saw him look over at her, and hoped that he was not enjoying the moment too much. He did not seem to be smiling which was good. If he were she would not be able to control herself. The thought of it made the hybrid want to bite out his teeth if she were able to, or perhaps his long handsome dreadlocks. {Concentrate… Ready…}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Launch.}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Pouncing forward from the seat, and making sure to shove herself upward with her cuffed-hands upon descending, the lynx landed on the echidna’s shoulder, He had moved out of the way. {He might have time to do something/  Gotta distract.}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She bit down at his shoulder but unfortunately he moved again. Rynk felt herself getting pushed forward, face into the cushion; suffocating. Pain followed this in her back, and soon after that, unconsciousness. {Flagg… in…}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So what is your name, тварь?” He spoke in English (or Singskrit). Rynk’s eyes bulged out as she observed her surroundings. It was a large living room with couches, one of which she was on, a television, and a kitchen in the distance. Her cuffs were gone as she noticed when pulling her hands to her face. He was monologing which gave her an opening.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As soon as her muscles began to tense up, she felt herself begin to relax, becoming dizzy and weak. Her heart-rate was decreasing. With the weakness still affecting her, Rynk searched herself and found a tight collar around her neck.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I use that for all of them.” He told her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re sick.” She hissed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You talk. Good. How many voices can you do?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t have Banshee powers.” She snarled back, becoming weaker the more hostile her tone became. “Get…this off’a…g….”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If you pass out too much you’ll get brain-damage. Just relax.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“While you do…whatever you want, right?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m not like that.” He defended in a hurt tone. “Besides you aren’t old enough for anything like that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, so you aren’t a pedo rapist slaver, you’re just a rapist slaver. Much better.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’ll have five or so years to realize how much better. I’ve never had a Hellborn employee before.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You don’t have one now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then would you prefer to be called a servant? You won’t want to be called a slave, that much is obvious.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’d rather peel off your fingers and scratch them against this choker till they’ve sawed it off.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’ve got a creative mind, that is for sure.” He noted, still calm. “I’ll ask again for your name.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“As if I would tell you.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then from henceforth you are referred… Moon-cat.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk gave the man an unimpressed stare. “… That took you a while to think up, didn’t it?” She moved her hands up in a banner-motion. “Coming to a theater near you; the most unoriginal slave name since slave-girl; MOON CAT.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“A sense a humor too… perhaps you were worth all I spent.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You aren’t giving me that name.” Rynk glared.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“And why not?” The man asked, being very amused by the lynx’s attitude.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Because when I tear out your vocals and break off your jaw, the message you write when they asked who tore this to the ground isn’t going to be ‘Moon-Cat’.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Hm… Maybe I could have you read poetry… or be a story-teller. That would be a first.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What makes you think I’ll just BREAK, huh?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… How old are you?” He asked. “Fourteen? Thirteen? Young teenagers are nothing if not breakable. Employees that actually show respect to me and obey are rewarded when they come of age. They have their own rooms, phones, toys, even their own slaves. They never have to dance, or do anything uncomfortable… maybe if you get a taste of it you’ll reconsider your mindset.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Why can’t any of you people leave me alone?” She growled lowly. “WHY CAN’T I JUST BE… left… a…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’ll get used to it.”  The echidna turned towards a hallway. “Parl! Tella!” He called out. From the hall came two different mobians. One was a tall male lizard, masculine, with long white hair. The other was a female sheep, also with long white hair, and smoothed out fur which Rynk found to be extremely strange-looking. They both wore suit-like apparels of the color red and white, and stood silently after entering.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“This,” The echidna pointed to Rynk, “is yours.” The two nodded to the slave-owner and began moving towards Rynk. The echidna gave a cautioning stare to the young lynx, telling her to behave. He easily realized this was not going to be the case. Rynk’s eyes were wide with fury as she darted her head back and forth between the echidna, and the slaves; daring anyone to touch her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If you don’t go along I can just have your nervous system hijacked, sending surges of pain through you.” The echidna produced a rectangular brick with a dial on one end, and an antenna at the top. Rynk turned to him with a smirk, pausing just long enough for him to move the controller in her range.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You have no idea…” She almost chuckled in a whisper before snatching the controller and cranking it to full. Immediately her body began contorting in spasms, but her expression remained as pleased with herself as ever. The echidna tried to grab hold of controller but Rynk pounced upward, slamming her toe-claws into the ceiling above. “I had-d a feeling,” She noted, becoming more in control of her body, “this would be linked to the sa-a-ame thing controlling my heart-rate.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx did not waste time. She leapt at the echidna, aiming for whatever vital organ she could grab at. Unfortunately one of the slaves rammed her, sending the crazed-lynx slamming into the ground. She still had the controller in her hand which she tried to raise up but before she could a blade was slammed through her palm and into the floor.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The echidna walked over to Rynk, looking a bit pleased with himself. “How does having all of that pain multiplied feel?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk just shook her still spasming head, chuckling. “My hands ca-a-an’t feel anything, e, ‘echidna-a.” She yanked her hand through the knife, and clawed up at the throat of the male slave, who nearly got cut but was pulled back by the female. The lynx-girl was about to continue her assault but the slaves held her down by her legs and arms.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She screamed and roared and hissed, yanking and pulling and chomping at the air, trying anything to get free, but it was not going to happen. The echidna took the controller and turned it off. Immediately the pain of having her nerves un-sizzled went through, along with a massive hear-burn. With a final scream, this one being much more in pain and much louder, the valiant lynx-girl passed out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Master Emit, are you sure it’s safe to have her under our watch?” The female asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“With the proper adjustments, yes.” The echidna replied. “Perhaps some hypnosis if mandatory.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Three
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk found herself in a hospital-like room, which according to Parl, was stationed in “Emit’s Domain”. The knife that went through her arm had pierced her metallic bone exoskeleton, causing it to ark upward in a volcano-shaped spike. Parl was currently hammering the metal back into a flat form so that the healing process would last a shorter time. It would take off a month of the process, but even then, there would be two months after that until the exoskeleton fully remolded. At the rate at which the hammer was blunting the spike, it would be a great long while till he finished, if he finished.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx-girl was not particularly hostile about the idea. If she was going to escape or fight them she might as well be healthier first. She did wonder however aloud, “What are those knives made of?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“They’re a high-tech mold that heats the shell, particularly the edges,” Parl began explaining between grunts and clangs. “They are also sharpened to an almost microscopic amount. It’s a product of Emit’s Domain.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk was a bit surprised. “I… didn’t actually think you’d tell me that. Isn’t that like… a secret I’m not supposed to know or something?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No, not really.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Alright, then what is ‘Emit’s Domain’ exactly?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’ll find out soon enough. Emit hasn’t authorized that information yet.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk looked over the calm “employee”. He had no scars, he had no collar like she did. He seemed completely content. Wasn’t he a prisoner of this place like her? Why was he a part of this? “Why do you work for Emit?” She asked finally.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Being a part of Emit’s Domain has extreme benefits,” He began before gesturing towards the young lynx, “one of them being you for the time-being.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This activated a knee-jerk reaction. Rynk yanked her arm away from the lizard, and got up from the bed. Parl did not seem to disapprove, though even if he did there was a slim chance Rynk would actually care. “What kind of ‘benefits’ do you think I’d do for you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Emit already told you that you aren’t old enough for physical servitude, until you come of age at least. But even when you do, I don’t think pleasure is going to be your main task. Emit paid quite a bit of money to get you; he’s not going to waste it on that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So you AREN’T in charge of me?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“For the time-being, Tella and I are. We are simply meant to be initiating you… converting you, you could say. Once the process is done, Emit will most-likely want you as a personal assistant.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk kept her back to the lizard-mobian, though if he could see her face he would see grinding teeth, and misting eyes. “… That still doesn’t answer my question.” She grumbled out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What you will do for Tella and I?” Pal confirmed. “You are mainly to be training, but we’ll have you fetch for things as well, delivering messages, doing groceries perhaps. We are limited as we are meant to prepare you for Emit, but we can make the best of it if we so wish.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">His tone was completely calm. It was casual; unfeeling. There was no inner turmoil about this for him. Rynk contemplated killing the man. If that led to her dying in this place, at least she would have taken someone down with her. Unfortunately before the livid lynx could brainstorm a strategy of attack, Tella walked into the room.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As the sheep-woman entered, she nearly jumped back in shock, as Rynk with her tensed expression, was facing the doorway Tella was entering. Rynk was alerted to her presence, opening her eyes a bit, still glaring, still cringing, but keeping her radiating irises fixed what seemed to be permanently, on Tella’s.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The sheep-woman cautiously moved around the lynx, giving a small grunt to clear her throat before speaking. “It is time to show her His Domain.” She informed Parl before realizing that they were no longer hammering. “Why did you stop with her arm? Is it fixed already?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” Parl replied plainly. “And we should get back to-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“NO…” Rynk interrupted tensely, chuckling cynically. “Let’s go. It’ll give me a good opportunity to escape… or learn how to kill you.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tella remained as nervous as Parl was emotionless. He replied in a very telling way “Given the circumstances, Moon-Cat,” Rynk hissed at the mention of those words, “you won’t want to.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The three mobians left the building, which was very exotically-colored, like a jungle paradise, with plants everywhere, mixing with the sunset-yellow-orange, red, and deep mixed-with-dark green. Outside of this hospital, it was little different.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A giant community lay outside, with buildings surround a vast lake… or pond; Rynk never could tell the difference. Many of them were very distinguishable. Small one-story buildings had mailboxes… or what looked like mailboxes. As the three mobians passed them, Rynk noticed that these had no opening. What were they for if they were not holding mail? Regardless, these were obviously houses. Some of the windows revealed beds, of which some people seemed to still be asleep in.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This confused the young lynx. She looked upward for a moment, testing if the sky matched the afternoon glow around this jungle-plain city. The sky seemed to be a glowing orange. {So it’s what? Four? Five-Thirty?}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The other buildings had large letters on them that Rynk realized were titles; signs of the different stores… or business-houses. These had one-way windows making it hard to tell what kind of events held place there. The hospital was basically the same. These buildings did very in size of course, but the observing feline-girl did not have a clue as to how she should distinct store-types based on size. One building however gave her a good idea of its type—produce—based on the stand of watermelons outside of it.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk remembered tasting watermelon before. It was only a few times of course, but they were certainly delicious. Her previous employment-group stationed themselves in Caconod, a very Africa-like city in Supreta, and the only place Rynk enjoyed being in. During their trip there were many watermelons practically gushing with juice…. Delicious… sweet…. “And that-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk whipped her head around towards Parl. He had been describing the whole area to her this whole time hadn’t he? {Great… now I get to find out through trial-and-error}. The lynx quickly followed where he pointed, and acted as though she were always paying attention.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Parl talked about how it was a schooling center, “a place you will be very familiar with soon.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Great…” She grumbled back. The lynx went back to her thoughts, but briefly noticed that she didn’t see Tella, that is until she turned around. The sheepish-sheep was trailing behind, eyes wide and hands tensely open. Tella was afraid of Rynk.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx held back a grin. {That can be useful,} She thought before turning back around.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The more of this city Rynk saw, the more it seemed so strange. Was it normal for a slave-owner to have a city for his slaves? The only slavers Rynk heard of seemed to keep them in one house, or one building more specifically, but what was the point of this whole city? Were all of these people slaves? Citizens? “How is all of this… here?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Parl gave a very uninformed eyebrow raise to the young lynx, so she rephrased. “How… why is this a city? He said something about different levels of slaves, yeah?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, that.” Parl cleared his throat. “Emti’s Domain is a secluded… sanctuary, from the rest of Nekai. We are a growing city, and eventually a state if the government permits. There is no marriage, no commitment, no violence, and no underage sexual intercourse.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Hold on, no marriage… but no young-age- okay why?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You don’t know very much about Nekai do you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m Supretan. All we get told is how ‘Amazing’ our country is, and never to let influences from other worlds, or countries, influence that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What do you think of our ‘influence’ so far?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh I didn’t make my feelings perfectly clear before?” The feline unsheathed her claws.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Do you want us to explain things or not?” Parl asked testily.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“She should be asking us for permission. The Hellborn requires discipline.” Tella spoke up.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk flew around, stamping her feet dead-set on the sheep-woman. “She can dish out discipline if that’s what you want, big girl. You see,” She took a step towards Tella. “I don’t like slavery but I don’t hate either of you… yet. You’re just brainwashed minions following DAAAD-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tella lost her temper, and slapped the hostile lynx, though she looked no less terrified than before. Rynk repeatedly sheathed and unsheathed her claws, taking deep breaths as she thought over her next decision. Her eyes remained on Tella. She was still wide-eyed and nervous. “You know,” The lynx whispered, making sure she was still heard, “for now, that expression, is more than enough.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The rest of the tour was silent until they arrived at a fitness dojo. “There.” Parl stated, pointing to a bench press. Rynk gave a confused stare, but followed him over to the exercise machine.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is this my bed?” She asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We are going to test your limits in strength. More weights will be added until we notice strain-damage in your body.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s overkill.” Rynk huffed, crossing her arms. “Good luck with that.”  She turned to walk out the door.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If you leav- e’hem, try to leave.” Parl began, “you will under rehabilitation.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You can try if you like.” She responded cockily.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It is not wise to taunt.” Tella began. “Unless you want to pass out from a low heart-rate.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk halted in a jolt, bopping herself on the head. “Right, forgot. Fine.” She turned back and began walking to the bench press. As she went she raised a hand towards her face. Tella made nothing of it at first, but the distinct sound of scratching metal gave her a hint as to what was going down.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">With a nod from Parl, it took five seconds for the rebellious child to pass out. “That was a very poorly-thought-out strategy, Moon-Cat.” Parl noted to the unconsciousness below his feet.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Room… in a room… ‘n…lights ‘n… pic-pictures? Ugh! … ow. Bright pictures… what’s… what’s…}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Hm? Oh, b-back up, again… what’s… sound, what’s that… ser…what?}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Mem…ber? Members? O…kay. I… what’s…}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Over and over it went; in and out Before she could become fully conscious she would be sent under again, with only the words, and images, flowing through her mind. If she were not being drugged during these sessions it would be nearly impossible. With them, it was only difficult.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk found herself sitting at the end of a bed, facing Emit, who is sitting on a stool. The lynx kept silent while observing her surroundings, but this did little to help her situation. “What do you want, slaver?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh this is too easy.” Emit rose up from the chair, taking deep breaths to control himself. Rynk waited for his answer with a very unamused muted gaze. When the echidna had finished collecting himself, he cupped his hands, except for his index fingers which were pointed at Rynk. “You have been unaware of your actions for an entire week. You’ve been doing nothing but sitting when told, eating when told, and leaving to the bathroom when told.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Okay, OR you want me to believe that and nothing’s been happening.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Do you like your new clothes?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk stared downward and fumed with a gag at the black and red “Emit Attire” she was dressed in. However, despite her disgust, she replied “Someone could have just stuck me in this outfit.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Very well.” Emit spoke out a strange word. It seemed inaudible, almost as though Rynk couldn’t hear it fully. At the same time, she felt the echidna pinch her shoulder and immediately after this, she found herself staring at the floor.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Blood was filling up her forehead… she was standing upside down. Rynk immediately released herself from the roof and collapsed on the ground, clutching her head in itching and soreness. Her thoughts were collected, as well as her realization… Emit hadn’t lied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can make it so that the trigger-word is all that is required to put you under, Moon-Cat.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Nothing… to lose then…” Rynk charged, ripping towards Emit but a jolt of nausea and stinging followed soon after just above her left elbow. Her arm was chained to the foot of the bed. Upon collapsing, no matter how much it tore at her pride, the lynx recoiled to the foot of the bed, crowning her arm, and doing her best to hold back tears.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I appreciate the information about your lack of nerves inside your arms. You have one last chance to behave. If you do, you will receive caring for.” He learned forward to the curling feline. “You are only harming yourself with this. I am offering you a perfectly peaceful life here. Do not call me unmerciful.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Footsteps departed and footsteps entered. The voice of Parl was recognized, and where there was Parl, there was Tella. Sure enough “You are going to be tested soon, Moon-Cat-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“BUT,” Parl interrupted sternly, “you can get used to your room first. We hope you choose to not harm yourself further.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">After the minions left, the chains deactivated, unlocking Rynk’s arms. She was not going to give in to this. She… couldn’t. This was not right… The clothes… they weren’t hers.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">*RIP* She tor them to shreds and moved to the closet. Inside she found more uniforms, and began tearing through them as well. She did this for minutes until her rage broke, and she realized that these were the only clothes she could wear.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx laid underneath a pile of red and black. They were her only modesty, but they were also a symbol of servitude. She tried to think back… back to a happy memory. What did she have? Her “Gang”? Art? The boy she… turned into an orphan…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Before Heavy Metal… there was a house. She had, guardians. She had people that wanted to be there for her. They took her in. {Did… I ever… tell them they mattered?} She could not think of a time when she did. This question repeated with a different ending every time. {Did I ever tell them they were loved- Did I ever tell them they were good people- Did I ever appreciate them?}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A wealthy family—high in stature—took her, a Hellborn, in to live with them. They protected her at all costs and… died because of it. What had she done to honor that? She could not even recall what their names were…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was only the beginning of course. No matter where she went, something bad would happen soon after. She murdered her mentor, she left her only {f-…fri-…} she could not even speak the title. Later she discovered the fate of Chain… Chain was her friend. Chain looked out for her. Chain was dead, but… there was a happy moment in there.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Terrible things had happened, yes, but for a moment, neither of them cared about what happened. They shared a deep, caring, embrace; holding each other tightly and showing one last time a sign of unbiased, unprejudiced, unconditional, love. Maybe Chain was never a mother-figure for Rynk but perhaps a sister…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">But now, she was laying at the bottom of someone’s ego; her choices being to either submit, or humiliate herself. And now,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">… now that no one could hear her, and no one would care, she broke… sobbing, wheezing, and calling…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Help.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Four
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Three weeks passed. It was a repetitious cycle   First Rynk would wake up. This began the reminder that she was once again in captivity, and that she had a day to find new kinks in the Domain. Most of her attention was focused on the collar around her neck, and the wires inside her body. The feline was able to saw the collar partially with her claws, but unfortunately this activated a failsafe, and she passed out again. She later tried it at a range of the collar-controller. The same result followed, though it did take longer on this second attempt to affect her. The Domain probably had satellite-dishes around to bounce the signal to her. If she were to take it off it would have to be either out of the city, or if the power went off.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Next she would go to schooling. This is where Rynk filled out most of the puzzle pieces about this place. As the stories go, Emit claimed to be one of those who lived before the apocalypse, or the “Fall” as it was usually called. He supposedly travelled unharmed, realizing later after the Fall that he “could not die”. This became a revelation to him, a message telling him to go and “help” others. He would venture around the planet, searching for people who would join him. Many refused his “graciousness” so he took them, and brought them to his original domain, an oasis. He made them work until it was in good condition, and once it was finished, he allowed them to live there, and that was the origin of Emit’s Domain.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk of course did not believe this, but everything pointed to this Domain being recently built; maybe a few years old. When she brought this up with the teacher, she was given the reply “Well, yes, this was made recently; ten years ago in fact. But Emit’s Domain is not a physical place. It lives in everyone. There are other Domains throughout the planet. When Emit calls to us, we know where to place the next.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Where are these other ‘Domains’?” The lynx would ask stubbornly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“In all countries.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“In what cities?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Whenever the questions became too complex for the teacher to answer, they would say “If you want a list you can get one later.” And of course that never happened. No matter how “wonderful” everything was described, Rynk just saw it as sick Stockholm-syndrome. They would not be convincing her of these stories any time soon.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Schooling did have some benefits though. Rynk learned the Nekain language, called “Russia” apparently. She did not understand the name, but the more she thought about it, “Singskrit” didn’t sound much like “Supreta” either. She was not a master of “Russia” but she could form some sentences at this point. This was for her benefit as now she could understand what everyone said about her, and plan revenge for later.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk always took great pleasure in terrifying the other students, one way or another. Usually she would tell them about how she almost killed their beloved leader. They would gasp and gape most of the time. Some would insult her, which she replied back with an insult as well. This would escalate until the lynx was dragged out of schooling, grinning all the way.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">After school, Rynk would be scolded by Parl and/or Tella, be it for being pulled out early, not reciting their pledge of allegiance, or both. Using the hypnosis tactic to make Rynk apologize, or whatever strange task, became a mediocre solution. Rynk was not phased… when they could see her. In her own time, when no one saw her, the tears came, but she never let them know. Thankfully the hypnosis ended for the time-being, and she was simply given more work as punishment.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Normally she would run about the city getting or delivering things for Parl and Tella. She highly doubted this was needed, but they had nothing they needed her to do. She was their only slave at the time, but they seemed capable of doing things themselves. They were the kind of people that preferred doing their own work, something Rynk shared as a trait.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Following her “duties” was free-time. Rynk always spent her hours in the dojo, exercising and training with her combat. This way she was able to run, kick, and exhaust herself naturally. The doors were always locked of course but at the very least, she wouldn’t be forced to pass out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It had been four months now since Rynk had any formal training, though she felt far from rusty. It did feel good to work on her combat skills, and even better knowing that she was so far unmatched by anyone in the Domain. She just assumed they were all too “peaceful” to be interested enough in honing combat skills. She developed a few new attacks of her own, but it was rare the lynx was given a combat partner.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Parl mentioned at one point that she could pay for someone to be her combat partner with point, but of course Rynk had very little point. Point was the currency of Emit’s Domain and was based on the amount of gratitude or respect someone had for another’s actions. The young lynx was incredibly agile and quick when it came to her delivery work, gaining her large amounts of point, but then there was her actions in schooling, and even when it came to the deliveries she wasn’t always obedient.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tella however decided she wanted to break Rynk, and paid to have the best physical combat member of the Domain “train” the young lynx. Unfortunately the member was otherwise occupied, and the second-best was brought in.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He was a large lizard with legs and arms nearing a balloon-like shape with their muscles. He had green scales and a large snout. His hair was brown and scraggily, and his eyes were yellow. He wore a tight grey tang-top and black jeans. Originally gloves and boots were involved but Tella made him take them off.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk looked up and down at the lizard wide-eyed; her, him, standing in the dojo, with Tella standing a ways in front of them. The equipment was moved away for the fight. Originally Tella had planned to have it in private but when the people started to find out about it, the dojo was soon filled with a good twenty or so people.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So… I’m getting a trainer?” Rynk asked obliviously, looking back from Tella to the lizard. “What’s your name?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard seemed a tad confused, and looked to Tella for what to do. The sheep-woman seemed displeased with his attitude. “Just fight it.”  She made sure to skim her eyes over to see Rynk’s reaction. The lynx clearly noticed and tensed. {Good…} The sheep thought.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard sighed and took a step towards the young lynx. She didn’t seem to move. She just tensed up more. The scaly muscle jabbed his right fist full-throttle at her. Tella felt everything as if it were slow. The murmuring behind her was drowned by the rippling of the lizard’s arm parting the air.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The sheep expected the lynx to move, punch, do something, but she instead took the hit, and when her head hit the floor, the crack of wood snapping upward echoed for a good thirty seconds. The lizard clutched his fist, rubbing his own sore from the impact, and waited for the next thing to come.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk’s forehead was bleeding blue and crimson but she got up. She was noticeably dizzy but resumed her standing position. This time though she put a foot behind, acting as a brace. The lizard looked to Tella once again and she gave him the same angry stare. He turned back and rammed his fist at Rynk a second time.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk headbutted the lizard’s fist, and broke his knuckles with her metallic skull. While still in contact she took the opportunity and dug her fangs into his knuckles to keep her rocked insides stable until her own brain stopped shaking. Her legs worked just fine though, and she made use of them. She kicked up, dug both feet into his bicep, and pushed, dragging her claws through his arm until she reached his armpit.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx had to bash her hands against the lizard’s to free her teeth, which mixed with the flailing of the now screaming adult, sent her flying across the floor. The top of her head was even more bruised with rolling blisters from the weak skin and fur.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard was bleeding out and going into shock on the ground. Rynk jumped up from her second fall and started walking towards Tella. “Got that controller on you?” She asked mockingly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tella did and made use of the device. Rynk collapsed on the ground with a chuckle. “Good.” She said weakly. “I’m pretty…sure…he’ll be more mad… at you…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emit called for Rynk the next day. When she arrived her right eye was patched. Her head was wrapped. She sat down casually, acting very pleased with herself. With legs crossed and hands practicing the Supretan greeting motion, the lynx asked bluntly “So Mr. Manipulator, miss the show?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emit looked genuinely shocked by Rynk’s current appearance. He didn’t seem to pay attention to her greeting and instead asked “Tella did that?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Now it was Rynk who looked shocked, followed by a disbelief rise of an eyebrow. “Her flanky did most of the work, but if you’re talking about the eye, that was all her, yeah.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What exactly did she do?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk shrugged. “I wasn’t really conscious for most of it. Felt like gunshots. I think she was trying to kill me. I can show you the dent in my eye if you want.”  She started to lift the patch but as expected, Emit waved her away frantically.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I…” He paused, troubled. “I, was going to scold you after what happened with to the lizard.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“He has a name, doesn’t he?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Not that I know of. He doesn’t like being called ‘the lizard’ but he won’t gi- th-that’s not,” The echidna stopped himself, and looked down. He was thinking.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The short lynx did not break the silence, and did her best to not feel any regret towards this man. Concern or no concern, she was a prisoner. “What exactly all happened?” Emit asked finally.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Tella wanted to make an example of me maybe. There were people watching, I got hit in the face, I hurt the lizard a lot, then Tella tried to kill me.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“She said that you tried to kill her… the bullet must have ricocheted off of… you, and hit her in the shoulder.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Why do you believe me?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m a good judge of character.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re a slaver!” Rynk hissed, her anger triggering. “How does that make you a good judge of character?!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Those are two completely different things… now, I openly admit my foolishness.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What do you mean?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emit did not respond to the question. Instead he asked her, “Who are you? What have you gone through in your life?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk was hesitant to answer. She did not plan to give him her life story. She certainly did not want his pity. “I’ve gone through a lot, let’s go with that.” She said in a softer tone. “That’s all you get from me unless you feel like letting me out of this place.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emit cupped his hands. “If you were completely free to do whatever you wanted. If… you hadn’t met me on bad terms, would you have liked to stay in this place?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What are you getting at?” The lynx asked impatiently.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“When I brought you here I thought you were just a rebellious child. I thought you needed to be disciplined. The man who sold you off-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Wait the-… Idolza!” She tensed, clenching teeth and fist. She did not notice that waves of nausea and dizziness had not contrasted with her stress.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“He told me that you killed your family, worked for terrorists, and tried to destroy a school in Supreta.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk just became more and more confused. “What about this makes you think I didn’t? Did I say something?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Was Idolza telling the truth about you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This presented an impasse. Rynk felt an urge to explain, but she wanted so hard to not at the same time. Why should she trust this man with her story? Was he trying to win her over? Was this a means to trick her? Perhaps if there were different circumstances she could trust this man’s words, but she had not forgotten… she had not forgotten the hypnosis..

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” She finally answered darkly through her teeth, eyes dead on the ground, with her stripes beginning to gleam faintly. “You, and I, we aren’t friends. You aren’t my provider, you aren’t my father, you’re not my god. I hate you, and I want to kill you and you deserve it for what you did.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s… a bit-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk slammed her hands on the desk between them, watering eyes piercing at his. “DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT FEEL-… what…” She recoiled to her previous standing position, head limply positioned at the ground. “I want to leave. If you have any bit of actual good in that head of yours, let, me, go.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You can’t tell me one thing about what happened to you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk had no idea what she was going to do with those words so she did nothing. It was if he were wanting to get her more upset.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m going to need time to make arrangements.” He finally answered. Rynk started to nod in a reply but stopped halfway with a growl, and began walking out. Before she left however, the lynx girl called back “Where is the lizard?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“больница.” He replied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Later on…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk walked over to the bed of the lizard. His arm was in a metallic cast with glowing pads on the bicep area; the spot Rynk tore out. He was conscious but did not notice her at the moment. “You… oh… right.” She cleared her throat. “Вы… сделал не хотите драться со мной, сделал тебя…” (You ... did not want to fight me, did you)

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard looked over to her slowly, but no less startled. It took a moment for him to acknowledge what she had said, but eventually he shook his head.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Она сделала вы это делаете…” (She made you do it…)

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… не до-…не д-… I shouldn’t have taken that out on you. Are you going to be okay?”  The lizard gave a partially confused stare to the lynx. She realized from this that Singskrit was not understood by this Nekain lizard. She repeated in Russia “Собираетесь ли вы быть в порядке ?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard looked from her, to his arm, then down. He did not nod. Rynk felt light-headed and forced herself to sit down while bracing her forehead. She had to find out from one of the citizens how to say the word in Russia and could barely pronounce it in her emotional state. “Мне очень жаль.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lizard did not look to her apology. He simply closed his eyes and began falling asleep. Rynk walked out of the hospital soon after. She had planned to bring him a flower maybe, or something, but she was not going to give him something from Emit’s Domain. It seemed she was going to be leaving soon though, so perhaps she could get him something, but for now, she had mutton on the mind.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Finding Tella’s house was easy considering she was Rynk’s owner. When the lynx got to the house however, she found Parl alone, sobbing. It was not hard to come up with why. “Relocated or killed?” She asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Parl whipped around to Rynk, his sorrow turning into a fury. He grabbed the controller from his pocket and cranked the knob to its fullest. Rynk sighed at the aggressive attempt, and pointed at her un-collared neck.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He looked defeated as the rectangle fell from his hands. Rynk felt some sympathy for him, some pity, but not much. She did not have much of a reason to feel anything but pathetic towards him. True he was not abusive to her as Tella tried to be, but they weren’t friends. He was no pawn. There was nothing to do here.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It became puzzling to the lynx, as she walked through the Domain, why Emit would execute Tella, or do whatever he did with her, after something like that. Rynk was not half as injured at her opponent, even if she had a constant itch from her metallic eye-lid digging into her eye. Did Emit really feel regretful? He did agree to let  her go, at some point in another, and even then that was if she could trust him… but killing one of his closest servants? That was strange to her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The rest of the day was spent looking for a way out of the Domain. Rynk had no desire to stick around and wait to be let out. If she could leave now, all the better. Unfortunately she found no exit and the only place she could not look was Emit’s personal house. Even if she were able to take on whoever was guarding it, no doubt they would have some form of way to sedate her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx finally decided to sleep on the ground in the outdoors. There were rarely insects in Emit’s Domain and just about everyone else was in bed. She did not look up at the stars. They were not real as she found out her first nights at this place. Her stripes did not glow in the moonlight; it was all holographic most-likely.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When Rynk awoke the next morning, one of Emit’s other personal assistants walked up to her and lead her to Emit’s house. Rynk informed the man that she knew perfectly well how to find Emit’s office, but he insisted on staying with her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emit looked serious, but not as shaken as the day before. “I’ve made arrangements for new caretakers to watch over you.” He informed without a greeting.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk almost answered “Thanks, can I go now” but midway she realized… “Wait a minute… I’m… y-you’re…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“They are a dancing group and they actually are allowed to venture out of the Domain very often.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You aren’t letting… you…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“They already have a child member. You two will get along nicely.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m g- you’re goin-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’ve made sure also that they don’t-“ No matter how much Emit tried to extinguish the tension, Rynk got more and more furious. She was not able to reach him with her claws, as the assistant, as well as two guards near the room, were currently restraining her. The collar went back on, and a new day of imprisonment began.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Five
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The flustered lynx sat still with peering eyes. She was inside of a new house now. Most of the furniture was cleared out for dance-practice, and three people stood about her. The leader, Ano, was a male human with blonde hair and purple eyes. Normally this would be an interesting quality, but Rynk simply found the purple irises to be strange and unbecoming. The second was a woman. Her name was Inxie, and she looked the same as Ano. No doubt they were siblings. The third was a mobians girl; a wolf. She was a slate color, with black hair and green eyes. Her name was Zapix.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano was explaining everything about their group to the young lynx, but Rynk did not pay much attention. She recognized where they were all from. Ano’s skin and accent told everything; Supretan. Inxie was the same though with both of them the names seemed incredibly odd. Ano sounded somewhat Supertan, but Inxie did not in the slightest, and Zapix did not sound like a name at all. Zapix… with her slit eyes and black highlights, was a Geiser; a citizen—former citizen—of Gei Si Heir, the people who took part in the Refine.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano caught on to Rynk’s attitude and asked her “Is something wrong?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx looked over to the tall human and answered “You haven’t kill the wolf, Icken, or did you forget where you came from?”  Icken was a term used when referring to a hypocrisy towards one’s kin.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano looked towards Zapix then back to Rynk, as Inxie walked in front of the wolf to guard her. “That’s right.” The lynx hissed. “I mean, why should we let the mobian live but not the Hellborns right? I know where you’re from and I bet you can’t even pretend to say you didn’t say a bad word about us.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can actually,” Ano spoke sternly, taking a step towards Rynk. “What are you trying to do? We’re all your enemy?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Anyone who does nothing is my enemy.” She replied stubbornly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well that’s really nice, child, but that isn’t going to be tolerate.” Ano held up the controller to Rynk’s collar, and flipped the switch off. “If you have something to say, you might as well say it as loud as you need to. You leave Inxie alone, and stop blame everyone else because you had a bad life. Most people who live here now had a bad life too. That’s why we live here in fact. Emit had ask us to take care of you and we’d like to. We’d like to know you, teach you, and become friends, but if we can’t be friends this is going to be a difficult relationship.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You want me to get along with you?” The lynx scoffed. “Get me out of here.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We’re not discus this right now. We have practice to get to. You can join us, or sit there. We aren’t going to punish you either way. If you want to leave and fight the whole world, feel free. Emit has his reasons but we aren’t going to torture you into submission. Now if you want to be a part of this, we’re perfectly fine with accept and appreciate you.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I thought we weren’t going to-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Can we please start… n-now?” Zapix spoke up nervously. Ano looked over to Zapix, seeming a bit surprised after realizing how much time they were wasting. With a sigh he nodded his head and the three backed up to the middle of the room where they began discussing and performing twirls, flips, presses, lifts, and mid-air spirals.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk sat stubbornly at the back wall. She would have left but had no way of really getting anywhere. These people were certainly not interested in getting her out… but… the more she sat, and the more she thought, the guiltier she felt. Sure she’d apologize to someone she thought she had wronged… after she had hurt them, like the lizard, but here these were simply misguided citizens. They weren’t being mean, just stern. It was hard to consider having a friendly relationship with them as they were basically brainwashed prisoners, but she did not have that much of a reason to actually be upset with them. They did not put her here. They did not imprison her. They were simply living their lives. They did not want to hurt her, but they did not want to cause trouble.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk rarely considered that maybe the people who don’t take part in her rebellions had good reasons to keep to themselves. This was a family, and if they broke Emit’s rules they would be in danger from Emit. Ano cared about Zapix, that was evident. Maybe that’s why the orphan lynx was so hostile. Zapix had a father figure to hold and comfort… one that didn’t experiment on her, or trick her into fighting a dishonest war, or enslave her in a giant hotel.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Before the lynx could change her mind however, the day was over and the three were cleaning up. Dinner was had which Rynk attended silently. Ano and Inxie prepared for bed, and Rynk decided to start towards her new room, but was caught by Zapix before entering the new bedroom.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“May I talk to you?” The wolf girl asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk felt hesitant to speak. She was not ready to converse  She just wanted to go to bed. “No.” She replied grimly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Please? I don’t mean to-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’d like to be left alone…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But…” Zapix attempted to show a sign of reassurance by placing her hand on Rynk’s shoulder, but the lynx took this a completely different way. Her left foot landing on the wolf’s stomach, and shoved her to the floor.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">At first Rynk had her typical look of distain with her, but this was soon replaced with a sorrowful guilty-looking wilt. She pressed her palm to her face. “Sorry- I- I’m so-“ It was too late. The wolf was running away. Now things were going to be harder.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk closed her door and leaned against it, her right hand still pressed against her forehead. Her cringing caused her eye to itch again so she had to keep it open. She wanted to be nice. She wanted to make friends with these people, but she couldn’t. Not here. Not in this place of slaves and subordinates. Her greatest fear currently? Becoming friends with this family only for them say “Emit says you need to be kill now” or “Emit says you need to be hypnotize again” and then performing the act because their king said so.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The next morning, what Rynk expected to happen, happened. Ano pulled Rynk over to a hallway corner, and they began their talk. Rynk interrupted him mid-speech with a partially croaking “Hey… I know what you’re going to say and…” She took a deep breath, “I’m not proud of when I kick her. I thought she was doing something and I was wrong so I react then. You don’t seem like bad people… do… do you actually believe in everything Emit says?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… well, yes.” Ano replied hesitantly, caught off-guard by the response.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Even the part about his rules not apply to him? About him being allow to do whatever to whoever because he’s your provider?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano did not give a vocal response, but his silence said everything. “Well,” The lynx inhaled, “we aren’t going to be friends then...”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk did not join the dancers for breakfast. She did not plan to join them for practice either. Whether or not she did want feel hostile towards them, she wanted no part in pleasing Emit. That was of course before…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We’ll be performing at Cкручивание  Tокарный  Rород.” Inxie informed the group. The only part about that name Rynk understood was “city”, but it sounded like somewhere other than Emit’s Domain. She was also a bit confused why there was an “ing” at the end of perform, but that was unimportant.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… You mean out of here?” She asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s inside of Nekai but outside of Emit’s Domain, yes. We may be citizens of Emit’s Domain, but we aren’t restricted.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Wait, people can actually leave?” The young lynx was becoming incredibly confused.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“This is a safe-haven, not a prison.” Ano explained. “One day when the Domain is able to expand in all corners of Mobocan, everything will be at peace and it will be safe to go wherever. Currently however, Emit’s Domain is the most safe of any place on the planet. You know how things are in Supreta, even for regular citizens. Where did you live there by the way?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sem-retches.” The lynx carefully pronounced, putting emphasis on her wording. Ano recognized the name very much so, prompting a small cough of surprise.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well-*cmph*” He began to say, “you know what it’s like then. Then again not many people know how Ytaris work. Then there’s Gei Si Heir. Most people think it’s just a paradise of peace, but if anyone upsets that government, they’re gone. That’s how we found Zapix. Then there’s Nekai; a place where if you aren’t married at nine years old, you’re considered old.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk remembered the marriage rules in Supreta. The youngest there was fourteen, her age, not that she had any form of marriage on the mind, but… it was not mandatory in Supreta. Did people have to get married at that young in Nekai?

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">With all this talk about different countries, Rynk almost forgot what they were talking about; being stuck in Emit’s Domain. “Wait,” She yanked back, “what about the part where people CAN’T leave this place?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Emit takes those that are living terrible lives, and brings them here,” Inxie informed. “He keeps them here until they understand his generosity. Once one understands it, true goodness evol-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay, you can stop there.” Rynk held up her hand. “I don’t need to hear that garbage.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Inxie sighed. Ano narrowed his eyes a bit. “That was very rude,” he scolded.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t care,” Rynk replied. “I don’t hate you people, and I don’t have anything against you, but that doesn’t mean I have to put up with your wacko belief. But, if this means I get to leave this place for a while, let’s get to practicing.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This presented an issue. Ano realized at that moment that if they were to bring Rynk she would most-definitely attempt an escape. Until now the human was not under the assumption she would be that much of a trouble, but if she was going to be, he would need to make sure things would not go badly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Practice was delayed for a couple of hours. Rynk spent this time exercising; sit-ups, push-ups, a back-flip or two (until Inxie had her stop before she stomped through the floor with the landings). Zapix and Inxie were chatting amongst themselves for the most part and did their  best to avoid getting near the lynx-girl.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While they did not think highly of using the collar-mechanism against Rynk, the two dancers kept the controller in close proximity of themselves in case they needed to. Inxie herself, while protective of Zapix, was incredibly curious of Rynk herself. She went on and on, questioning what happened to the moon-stripes feline, but not to Rynk directly. It was gnawing away at her and so she finally opened Rynk’s door and asked to come in.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Are you going to talk about Emit and his beliefs?” The lynx asked sternly while in the middle of a leg-stretch.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” They replied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then come on in… this is your house though. I don’t see why you’d have to knock. Isn’t there a rule or something about not having any rules?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… thought you didn’t want to talk about that.” Zapix said faintly, keeping behind Inxie the entire time.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Right.” Rynk stood up, stretching her arms out a bit. “What do you want?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I was thinking it would be nice if we all talked together.” Inxie suggested as the two stepped to the middle of the room, now facing Rynk.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You want to get to know me?” Rynk questioned.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well yes, if you don’t mind.” The human girl replied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk crossed her arms. “That depends on why you want to know.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m just curious about you. I lived in Gei Si Heir most of my life. That’s how I met Zapix. Very little is known about Banshees, and you being one, well… it’s a rare opportunity.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… I’m only part Banshee.” Rynk answered hesitantly, though growing more reasonable as she went on. “I was take when I was little and a doctor guy experiment on me. I don’t know if I was a lynx before or a Banshee before. I can’t control sound and I’m not tall as you can tell.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“A Supretan doctor? Who?” Inxie questioned in interest.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t remember much during the process, or before it. The company was call ‘Melcro’ so maybe that was his name.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’ve heard that name before.” Zapix murmered.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You what?” Rynk took a step towards the wolf girl in interest, but unfortunately Zapix in a startle jumped back. “N-no, I’m serious.”  Rynk stammered, trying not to seem dangerous by holding her hands up.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well…” Zapix relaxed again, “The Gei Si Heir military would talk about how Supertans are always a threat, and when they list off known ‘Supretan Terrorists’ they would mention the name ‘Melcro’ as a… supplier.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sounds about right I guess.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Anyway, you don’t remember anything before the doctor?” Inxie attempted to get them back on track.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nope. I was only like… eight, though so I don’t think much else happen. I’d tell you both more but that’s all I really think you need to know. I’m only mention that because I doubt it can be used against me and I’m guess if Emit tells you to reveal a secret about me, you will.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s a bit harsh, don’t you think?” Inxie huffed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If it’s not true, then yeah.” Rynk retorted. “But is it true?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Well, I’m not really sure.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The sound of the front door opening interrupted the ladies. They all exited the bedroom and met with the entering Ano. “Okay,” He began, giving his attention to Rynk. “We’ll be going on the road and you get to come with us but…” His face scrunched up a bit as he held a breath of reluctance. “we’ll… have to use the collar.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“As if I’d expect something less from him.” Rynk rolled her eyes while puffing some hair out of her eye.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I hardly blame Emit for that.” Ano retorted. “Can you at least promise us you won’t try to run off while we’re gone?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sorry, can’t.” She replied immediately.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then are you at least willing to finish the dance routines while we’re there BEFORE trying to leave?” He stressed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Sure.” She replied in a very non-serious tone; the kind that should be an obvious sign of the opposite such as “Sure I’ll run into that pile of cacti” or “Sure I’ll ride on a plan in my undergarments”. In this case it was “Sure, I won’t leave in the middle of the dance.”  It was a sarcastic sure that she wanted noticed as nothing else.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Unfortunately Ano was too willing to believe her and said “Alright, good. Then let’s get to practicing.”  Rynk felt a bit guilty as she watched them all prepare the equipment for their practice. They believed what she just said and while she had no intention of being dishonest, but if she corrected their misunderstanding would that mean she would have a lesser chance of escape? The decision was easy for her; stay dishonest. Say whatever to get out. That did not change how bad it felt for her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The moon-striped lynx shoved away her conscience for the time-being and joined in with the routines. Ano had her give a demonstration of how experienced she was with choreography, as well as how flexible and fit she was. Rynk told him that they’ll see while they practice. Most of the movements in the first routine involved a very up-close set of movement. The three, and now four, would flip about, twist, jump, and roll, around each other, getting as close as possible without colliding.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This was difficult for Rynk for one very large reason; her arms. No matter how much she kept the rest of herself in check, her arms were very flying about whenever she could not see them in her direct line of sight. She attempted to go through the routines with them crossed, but this simply caused her to lose balance more easily. This would take practice.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The second routine was much easier, as she had much more room. The group would dash and leap about on ropes and ribbons, doing mid-air twirls that would create patterns with the strings and waves surrounding them. It was very similar to the lynx’s training with Art. Rynk prepared to do a triple flip from atop a tall stool, and land into a handstand. She succeeded, but instead of landing her palms, she rammed her fists into the ground.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Great now we have to repair that.” Inxie groaned. “Why did you punch it exactly?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I had combat train, not dainty train.” Rynk replied. Ano had them move on and the practice went on.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It did not take long for Rynk to master the second routine, but unfortunately three days later and the first was still an issue. “Can’t you just… move the routine around so you don’t hit my arms?” She suggested. “I’m pretty sure we can telegraph where they’ll fly about.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano was reluctant but they tried it… and unfortunately it failed. No matter how well they guessed, it was incredibly difficult to instantly dodge something when you’re trying to remember a specific planned movement. “You’ll just have to practice controlling them so they don’t fly everywhere.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk groaned. She did know how to keep her arms from moving as much but it always made her sore. Not only that, but she would now had to tighten and soften her muscles back and forth in specific positions now. To say the least, it was not a fast transition. In fact it took another few days until this was accomplished. When it was however, Rynk expected that the group would be ready to go out to the normal world.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We aren’t done.” Ano informed her. “We have to practice with an actual set now, and with costumes on.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk gaped in irritation, collapsing on the ground beneath her. It made a large thud though she did not seem harmed. Reluctantly, she continued. One more week, and then one half-week after that, they were finally ready to go.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As the group drove out of the Domain, Rynk was kept in the far back with Inxie, the front blocked from their view as to not allow the lynx to see their pathway out. Ano was almost as upset about this as Rynk was, but orders were orders. The lynx did not talk with Inxie but instead went over her options of how to escape.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk remembered the delay in the remote’s signal. While in the car it was turned off. Emit knew that she was not going to risk this family’s life in an attempt of escaping the car. However it was kept on the highest frequency. All it took was a press of a switch and not only would Rynk become weak, but if she accelerated her heartbeat while out of everyone’s sight, the jolt in her heart might just cause it to explode.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The controller was an arm-band with a cap on the top to keep the button from being pressed accidentally. It was as fashionable as the rest of their jewelry, and on the wrists of every member, except for Rynk of course.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk picked at the collar with her claws, making it seem to be a scratch in the back of her neck. It was hidden below her now long hair though even with this cover she had to be very careful. Even if the remote was turned off, the collar itself was still reactive to the pressure and damage. Every time she picked at it, she nearly collapsed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The first few scratches made a noticeable noise. Inxie was about to question what Rynk was doing but the lynx interrupted her. “Can I lay down?” She asked swiftly, attempting to mask her weariness.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why do you need to lie down?” Inxie asked back, putting emphasis on the “lie”. Rynk could not tell if she was referring to dishonesty or an incorrect usage of words.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can’t lie… down?” The lynx gave a confused stare.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why do you need to?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m just tired!” Rynk explained, raising her arms in irritation before limping her head to the left and bracing it to her palm, showing off an on-looking pout. “Fine. Forget it. Whatever.” She sighed and went back to her regular position, crossing her arms with a look of anger in her eyes, though not even to seem furious—simply put off—sad almost.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The motions, tone, and guilt, all sunk in deep with Inxie. Not five seconds later out came “Okay. You can lie down.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk gave a soft nod to the human and shifted on to her back with her hands bracing her head. Rynk knew from experience that human hearing was far less potent than most animobians. With her head and hands muffling the noise, and the current position masking any dreariness, the rest of the trip was spent damaging the collar.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Apparently Rynk scraped off more than she could chew, and discovered that she was waking up at one point. She did not remember if there was a dream before her wake but normally her dreams consisted of a song. None came to mind so perhaps there was no dream at all.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When the lynx awoke, the car had stopped, and Inxie was telling her to get up. She groggily rose and followed them out of the car. They were in an incredibly pale grey area. It was not the kind of grey that Rynk was used to in Semretches—A wet dark grey with black polish and damp corners and streets. It was a sort of dusty grey, a concrete grey. Nothing was very shiny. It was more like the city was inside of a cloud, only there was no cloud.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The buildings were very straight and close together, most being higher than ten stories. The streets were practically white, a quart-looking pavement with squares everywhere. Most everything else that was not grey or white stood out greatly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The people around wore mostly black or grey themselves, but most also had some sparks of color here and there; a red wrist-band, a green tophat, or a yellow scarf. There were a lot of scarves.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A very unnerving part of the people however was how young so many of them looked. There were young boys and young girls paired with older girls and older boys. At first Rynk thought these were parents with children, which she found incredibly charming at first glance… but… then she realized, these weren’t children. She saw some of these young ones, usually girls, holding babies in their arms. It seemed odd but not incredibly. It was when they kissed each other, the young and older, that she became disgusted.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk remembered when they told her “No young marriage” {Something like that}. Nekai had young marriage, and since there were practically no couple that were both adults, this seemed to be the norm.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Aside from this distraction, Rynk found everything else strangely charming. Something about the whiteness and light grey seemed… clean. “One of the first times we were out here,” Inxie spoke. “we had no band to protect ourselves. They tried to take Zapix from us and sell her off to a husband.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk noticed Zapix walking further forward, ahead with Ano, as Inxie told the tale. “How’d you get her back?” Rynk asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ano had to pretend she was his,” The human’s voice nearly broke at the last word. When she continued it was much softer. “He couldn’t sleep for weeks… or stop apologizing.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“They made him kiss her?” Rynk scrunched her face up.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No, but it hurt them both none the less.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“None the less?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Anyway.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Anyway what?” Rynk became more and more confused.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Anyway means none the less.” Inxie replied irritably.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh…” Rynk looked around as they walked. “How close are we? And why did we stop the car?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Not too far. White streets aren’t for cars in Nekai.” The human replied, now speeding up her stroll. “Stay close. Nekai may not be as against Banshees as other countries but they’ll still be a problem.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Right…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The two caught up with Ano and Zapix, ending their stroll at a large metal stage in the center of what seemed to be a park. The trees in the park were orange. The leaves were not just orange, but the trunk and branches as well; all the same exact shade. If the shadows each casted were not there it would be hard to tell that they were separate, and some still were.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The trees were so noticeable because they were the only plants in sight. This worried the young lynx. {Where’s the grass…?}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The stage itself had large red curtains and behind them a small house. They unlocked the doors and sat down a set of packages being carried by Ano. The house had two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living-room, and a bathroom; the basics.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We’ve got three hours to get ready.” Ano informed the group. “If you need to leek do it now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One bathroom break later and outfits were being put on. After that came the make-up. After that came the jewelry. Ano wore a black and blue suit with a feathery pattern going from his left stomach-side and spiraling to his right shoulder. His make-up was a star design, with a giant white and black one on his forehead.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Inxie had green. It was a two-piece lime dress with an undersuit of lemon-yellow that made a spiral around her arms and legs. The lime dress had three layers at the bottom, fading in a wave-like pattern. Her make-up was vines, with two underneath and over both eyes, stretching to her ears.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Zapix wore a very pale pink with grey. It was similar to Inxie’s in structure, pink for the main fading dress, and grey for underneath. However it also had a spiral that went around her neck and tail. Her make-up was filled with flowers. Due to her fur, they added multiple designs on her arms and legs. A center pink daisy lay on her forehead.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk wore purple, with the same structure as Zapix and Inxie. The dress was a dark purple, and the undersuit was a semi-dark plumb. She wore no make-up. She did not need it with all of her stripes.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">All of them wore three earrings on each ear, two arm-bands on each arm, and a neck-collar, all of which were gold.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Apparently the public was informed of their arrival before even leaving Emit’s Domain. People were crowding the stage with seats set up everywhere. For a brief moment Rynk actually felt nervous. Whether or not Emit was ruining her life, she was not being forced to do any of this. Yes she agreed to the show for other reasons, but for the moment perhaps she could actually enjoy herself?

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was doubtful. Another time perhaps this would be a good fun time, but too many upsetting things were happening. She wanted to get out, and after that find a new place to hopefully live. Unfortunately Nekai was not that place.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano gave a speech about how amazing they’ll dance and how proud he was of them. Rynk did not pay much attention. It angered her a little bit, but she kept her temper regular as best she could. The group was put into their positions, the sound-effects played, and the curtains tore open.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ano dashed forward first, performing a mid-air flip and landing in a slow turning decent. The announcing voice called him “Mist-Nova” (In Russia of course). Next came Inxie, charging into the air, flipping, and landing on Ano’s shoulders. She was “Earth-Stream”. Zapix came third, posing atop Inxie’s shoulders upside down. She was “Life-Petal”.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk knew what they would call her and it took everything in her to not bare teeth at the thought of it, even if it was being spoken in a different language than Singskrit. Still she played her part. With a dramatic uproar of music she charged the fifteen feet of three individuals, and landed her feet to Zapix’s, balancing still and silent. She could not close her eyes. She was not that skilled.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Moon-Cat!” The announcer yelled, and everything silenced. Rynk was busy holding back a cringe at the name but gradually noticed the gapes, the wide-eyes, and the utter shock of the audience. Whether they were scared or thrilled… they were amazed by her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Something felt… good about this. There weren’t any strings here. These were pure eyes of neutrality right now… at least she hoped they were. If they did begin to oppose her then she would simply make her departure sooner, but they had yet to say anything bad.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A sound, a snapping… no a crackin-… {clapping…}  Instinct, no it was… spontaneous. She saw the metal floor below her. It could take the action.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She fell forward, flipping and flipping downward until she hit the floor, driving her arms into the ground, using her palms to brace it from denting. It was not a clank, it was a ring, and it stretched the pause. Ano and the others were figuring out what to do next.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk nearly went into a random routine of her own, but when she raised her head to look at them she saw the couples, kissing, and remembered how sick this country was… like all the others.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx rose into a regular standing position and waited for the others to start up. Oh the crowd cheered, but so suddenly, she hated their joy. She hated herself for thinking so badly, for ruining the moment, but she could not stop it.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The show went on. She did as directed. They danced. The group went through runs, flips, catapults into the air to land on each other’s hands, and many other fabulous feats. All Rynk did now was wait for her opening.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A second tower was starting now. They all lined up behind each other. Their backs were turned to her. Rynk had counted the time it took for them to get to her in the practices. Fifteen seconds was all she had.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Past the curtains, up the wall, on to the roof, leaping and smashing on to the floor below, Rynk made her escape. She dashed forward while tearing at the collar simultaneously. She could not disconnect the wires until this time or their bracelets would alert them. Now there wasn’t exactly a reason not to.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk had made sure to be on the rooftops when pulling it off. If she passed out she would have a better chance of hiding there than the narrow streets below. True to her suspicions, the collar sent charges into her body. It felt like she was pulling out her own veins. Rynk was barely conscious but had to keep pulling. She needed them out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She did not know if they were all out by the time she collapsed. She could feel nothing anymore. She saw the collar in her hands and wires connected to it, stringing towards her. She could not do anything about it yet. She was not asleep but she was far from fully conscious.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Six
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk had been still on the ground for a good thirty minutes now. No one had discovered her yet. She had tried to get up a few times now but to no avail. She was still too weak. They would find her if she did not get away. But what could she do? She felt just as weak as before.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{Oh… wires…}  The wires were still inside of her partially. They must have been keeping her body from tensing on their own. She had to get them out. Her arms would only flop upward an inch or so. One hand still held the collar itself. She would need to reach it somehow.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Slowly the small lynx curled her body inward. It strained her to do so, and her head became dizzy. Her legs shook slightly with the pressure but they eventually pressed up against her arm. Now she needed to move her hand to her mouth.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Moving her legs was hard enough but now Rynk had to push her arm over. There was something blocking her however. She could not feel anything at the moment so whatever it was could not be measured.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">No matter how she pushed, the item would not let her pass. The lynx looked about for anything that could help her. Nothing… {Wait…} Her dress… it was attached to her legs through a strap to keep it from flying off. If she could pull that, it would help move her leg, and in-turn her arm.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Shakily, Rynk began to raise her neck up, inching her mouth towards the side of her dress. She wouldn’t have to pull back, just hold on. Her teeth dug into the fabric just before she became dizzy again. She fell back, biting down as hard as she could. At the same time, with all the strength she could muster, she pulled her leg back, as well as her arm.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The combination became enough to move her goal a good three inches closer. Her arm was still a little ways off but she could do the rest with her mouth. Rynk moved her head to the side, and reached toward the wires. Her teeth would not reach, but her tongue managed to weave into them. She could not bite into them until all the wires were in reach.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Slowly Rynk inched the collar and wires closer to her face. Finally she had all of them directly between her teeth. She chomped down and felt a mixture of pain and energy blast through her. It was incredible and excruciating.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx blasted upward to her feet, screaming and flailing about. She took hold of the wires in her hand, ripping them from inside her body, causing herself to scream even more loudly. She could feel the blood in her neck bursting, but at least it was something she could feel.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tearing off a piece of her outfit, Rynk fastened a cloth-brace around her neck. The blood-loss would be minimal. Her body would create a sort of foam soon to clog the wound before healing naturally. {Another thing that’ll take a month…}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Still, her energy had returned, and it was time to make use of it. The city looked quite beautiful from atop the roof. Rynk couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight of the dozens who seemed to be searching for her but had failed to realize her location. They would notice at one point, especially now that she was standing up. It was time to go.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leaping from rooftop to rooftop, the young lynx found that the white and grey city had more than just tall buildings and maze-like streets. In fact, it had tall black buildings as well. These seemed more populated, with more colors and windows. This did not look productive however. What she wanted was an escape from this country.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A chanting sound caught Rynk’s ears as she began passing the dark buildings. Following it on her way onward, she discovered a large lot with a circular arena inside. A flickering dome-field was noticed around it, for protection no-doubt. A strange wing…like symbol floated above it. It looked strange but perhaps it was worth investigating.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk walked down the side of a building and made her way across the street to the entrance. Two fully-armored guards stood at the sides of the large pentagonal doors with a non-masked on at the center. The receptionist? The armor was very sleek. Rynk found it most intriguing. It almost looked molded on to the guards with glowing slits around the arms and eyes.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The unmasked guard, a very tall white dingo, gave the lynx an odd stare considering her attire. Rynk couldn’t help looking aside, flushed with embarrassment. She started to speak in Russia but the guard interrupted her “You aren’t Nekaian.” He stated in a strange flat-sounding accent.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You… speak Singskrit?” Rynk asked wide-eyed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I speak English.” He corrected.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“English? … Okay… What… is this exactly?”  {How was that ‘English’? What is English? It sounds like Singskrit.}

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What is a Banshee-girl doing in an exotic dress in Nekai?... Come to think of it, are you a special breed?” The guard mentioned.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk shot the man an offended glare. “… It wasn’t an insult. Do you want me to assume the worst?” He asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I didn’t have a say in the matter. Not really- wait…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The guard raised a confused eyebrow. “… What?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What Nation are you anyway?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Glatorian.” He informed bluntly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Aaaaaaas in Gladiator?” The lynx guessed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“In a sense.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’ve… never heard of that. That can’t be a nation.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… You think we’re Mobocanian.” The guard guessed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… You aren’t?” Rynk questioned, becoming more and more confused.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No, we’re a multi-dimensional Nation. We travel from zone to zone, recruiting members, hosting games, trading, and so on.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk held back a chuckle. “Multi-dimensional? Travel? How exactly is that possible in Mobocan?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We have a worldwide pardon to move about as we want. We provide aid to various countries, though not Supreta as you’ve probably guessed.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{“guessed”?}  It made… a bit of sense. It was the Supretan way after all to say “No, I don’t need your help. I’ve just lost both of my lungs” but a completely alien nation to this zone being allowed to appear and leave, even taking people with them? How did they get a pardon for that? The whole planet said no to anyone coming in from off-world, at least as far as Rynk knew. Sure there were no doubt some kind of exception here and there, but…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">… did it really matter? The more Rynk thought about it, she had a better chance trusting non-Mobocanians in the first place, and if they were lying about the governments being fine with their events then didn’t that mean they were on the same page? It did seem plausible both ways. They were here after all, and it wasn’t like they were hiding. Rynk certainly didn’t happen to come across them via super-secret-spy-tech. Either way this looked like her ticket home.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… So if I win at this I can hitch a ride to… anywhere?” She finally spoke up in a sly tone.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The guard looked her over with a disapproving stare. “How old are you exactly?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Fourteen.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He did not look convinced. “I am!” She crossed her arms to match her expression. “I didn’t pick out my height. Look, I don’t want to stay on this stupid planet. Can you help me or not? The stupid Emit people are probably almost here.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Emi-“ The guard yanked Rynk over and darted through the doors before setting her down. Rynk had nearly sliced off his arm in retaliation, barely stopping when he placed her back down.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“S-sorry.” He apologized. “Emit, as in Emit’s Domain?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What do you know about it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why do they want you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“To brainwash me probably. They stuck a collar on me so I couldn’t escape. Wanna see the holes?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No- I believe you, but… Okay,” He walked a ways further into the hallway. “Stay here. I’ll be back in a minute.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“B-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You two, Emit people might be near. Guard.” He directed to two other guards at the right and left hallways before vanishing through another set of doors. Rynk stood there feeling a bit guilty. She didn’t expect protection. She just wanted to get out. Was this going to get these people into trouble too? They looked formidable but would Emit do something… wouldn’t he?

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The guard did eventually return with a more decorated one, wearing yellow instead of black for his armor. He was a tall black jaguar. “What is your name?” He asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Rynk.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Can you fight?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Can you endure?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Follow Acts. He’ll get you prepped. Don’t expect a simple fight here.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m grateful.”  Rynk gave the man a short Supretan Bow before Acts, the white dingo apparently, led her through the right hallway. It made the young lynx chuckle a bit as they passed. She did not expect a working soda, and snack, dispenser, or a bathroom with the men and woman pictures to boot. It was… quaint; charming almost. It was friendlier than most things she’d seen so far.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… would like to imagine you’re all work up just for my benefit, I… guess,” Rynk began, “but I think it would take more than that to get you scared about Emit people. I mean, you guys certainly look like you can handle them.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Easily, yes, but we’ve lost members to them before.” Acts replied. “They steal random people through stealth, and if they’re looking for you that means you might lead them here.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… sorry…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">At the end of the hall was a locked door that stated “Members and participants only”. They went through and found a prep-room inside. There was exercising equipment to the immediate right, measuring machines at the middle-right, armor and weapons at the far right, what looked like an operating table and medical supplies to the immediate left, water dispensers and tables of food at the middle left, and a platform with caution tape at its base at the far left.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“This is… pretty cool.” Rynk murmured. “Wait do I just use all of this?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Some of this has limits, but yes.” Acts informed. “There’s something specific you’ll need though.” He strolled over to the weapons area and returned with a yellow collar. Immediately this triggered a knee-jerk reaction, with Rynk jumping backward with a shaking head.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Wh- !” The white dingo recalled her mentioning the collar from Emit’s Domain. “Oh… Sorry I forgot. This isn’t a slave-thing, it’s a protection-gear… If the fights get too dangerous it will create a protective barrier around you, and heals any fatal wounds if required… Wait didn’t you say there were holes in your neck?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk held the cloth-covered wound, looking a ways off. “Does that mean I can’t fight?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That depends on the wound. Can I see it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk felt reluctant but she decided to push aside her caution for the moment. She sat down on the medic table and took off the cloth. There wasn’t much blood around the wound because of the clogging, but the holes were still noticeable. “Alright, we’ll need to clean that first.” Acts took a fresh cloth and soon the blood was no longer visible. He observed the wound and sighed. “It doesn’t look like it’ll hurt your chances but are you sure you want to do this?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can fight, dude.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Okay.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Acts left the collar with Rynk. “You have a half-hour.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright.” She was alone now and the collar haunted her. It was a nice gold color with a triangle-shape at the right end. It looked almost like jewelry. The large-eared lynx was not fond of putting it on at first considering the recent events, but the more she thought about it, this was like an irony. Instead of hurting her, this would help her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She strapped it to her neck and instantly began to feel a tingling sensation. Startled, she began to tug at it, but then realized it was healing her. The holes in her neck would take time but this was more than helpful. She could take off the collar later. She’d need it for the time-being.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk snacked briefly, not wanting to get a cramp in mid-battle, and decided to rest for a short while before the fight began. She could wake up and get into the fray almost immediately after waking if required. This would simply help her store energy.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A hissing and clamping sound woke the lynx abruptly. She gave a large yawn while stretching out her legs and rose up. She looked to the door, then to the weapons. “Guess I should have picked one already…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk quickly scanned over the choices. A pair of spike-less whips caught her attention. The handles were a bit of an issue, but if she were to strap them to her arms it would help to keep her aware of anything happening to her hands and biceps.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx could hear someone calling for her to come out, so she quickly placed the baton-handles of the whips just below her outer-shoulders, and wrapped the whips around, tying them while leaving a good five feet of length left for use.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She entered the arena, which was a large concrete lot, circular, with crowds all over the edges. It was somewhat humorous seeing the actual city-floor being used with its cracks and such. An announcer tuned in, sounding like the organizer though he himself didn’t appear outside of this voice.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He went over the regular introductions as Rynk’s opponent arrived. It was a medium-sized female echidna, red, with a masculine build, wearing cargo pants and a tang-top. It was a bit surprising seeing another woman in these fights, while at the same time refreshing. Was this because of Nekai’s standards or Glatorian? No doubt the Glatorian would have to abide by Nekaien rules to allow this in the first place, so that was probably the case.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman held twin-katanas, which she immediately dropped upon seeing how small her challenger was. “Darya” was the name affiliated with her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She began speaking in Russia, yelling angrily at the announcer. Rynk could make out the word “детеныш“ which roughly meant “cub” or “youngling”. She was complaining over fighting a child.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The announcer replied in Russia to Darya, and the two began complaining. This was incredibly annoying. Rynk did not have time for this. Emit could pop up at any moment, or something else could possibly go wrong. Things needed to get moving.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">*CRACK-A* The rubber-covered leather sizzled against the echidna-woman’s arm, demanding her attention. “Это мой выбор, чтобы бороться здесь, и если вы не собираетесь бороться , а затем оставить”(It's my choice to fight here, and if you're not going to fight, then leave).

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In truth, Rynk did not want to make more enemies, but she needed things to get moving. “I can fight.” She repeated, this time in Singskrit.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman remained silent at first. She kept her stare at the side of the ground. She then turned to the young lynx and spoke in Singskrit “You think you can fight? Alright; let us fight.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman yanked her swords from the ground, dashing at Rynk while keeping them low to the ground. Rynk quickly caught on that the woman would plan to dig up any dirt from the floor to fling up at her, or simply to use an upper-strike. The lynx did not have a chance to counter-strike at such a close-range, so she scuffled back a bit before backflipping, waiting a moment to fling her arms up to ward off the attacks. She knew she would not hit with such poor aim, but the echidna would be forced to maneuver away from the hit-box.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk landed in a front-crouching position, with both feet and hands poised for motion. The right blade swung down while the left up, both going in a swerving circling pattern. The echidna knew how to use these weapons. This would make an opening for attack small. “You don’t talk in battle?” Rynk asked before pouncing with a knuckle-launch aimed at the woman’s chest.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman would be caught off-guard for a split-moment, allowing Rynk the hit, which knocked a small bit of air from the echidna, stunning the opponent for a moment. “No.” She replied with a brief cough.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Good; me neither.” Rynk smiled. “Just thought I’d ask.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hm-CGH!” The woman cleared her throat and the two returned to their brawl. Rynk continued to dodge attacks while the echidna continued to clip the air around her. It was far from impressive considering this was mostly Rynk moving backward with the woman following. This was not a fair fight; Rynk knew this, so she decided to add spice.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She knew the echidna would be aware of a second frontal attack, and charged her arms forward at the woman again, slower this time. The woman attempted to clamp against Rynk’s arms, but Rynk had already passed her hands downward and was currently leaping into a leaping hand-stand. The woman swiped at her arms while the lynx was in the air, which was the one flaw in the lynx’s plan.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Her arms clanged against the blades, paining briefly as she was hit off-track, but she salvaged the situation with a side-ways slam against the echidna, hitting the woman on the side-head and shoulder. Rynk collided very sloppily however, and was not able to recover.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">They both landed sideways on the ground. While the echidna was far more bruised by the impact, she had a much more able position to strike, with her sword laying atop her hip which was near Rynk’s head.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk knew this, and thrusted an arm upward, not being able to see where it would land. She heard the clanging, then tightened. At this point she looked up and realized it was the blade clanking against the ground as the echidna got up, not hurting Rynk.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx rose as well, understanding this as a sign of honor, not taking the easy shot. Unfortunately, despite the liking she was taking to this interesting individual, the fight needed to end soon.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{These weren’t going to help anyway…}  Rynk tore off the whips, and cupped her fingers before charging at the bladed-woman. The echidna slammed the swords at Rynk, but the lynx simply knocked them away with her arms before brushing her foot against the woman’s stomach. Realizing that a kick from that area would do more damage than intended, Rynk slid her leg up to the mid-chest of the woman, and slammed her foot forward just as the blades cut across her ears. “Sparta!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was never an even fight. Regardless of how skilled this woman was, Rynk’s exoskeleton bones were hardly damageable by the given weapon. Rynk preferred to play it fairly, but perhaps now an opponent with a skill-set able to counter her could take the echidna’s place; one that used arm-locks or heavy weapons perhaps.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The echidna was knocked unconscious from the impact of her head bashing against the concrete floor. Rynk felt worried that she may have killed her. Fighting aside, she seemed like a very decent person. Thankfully the collar on the woman began to glow yellow and the notable bruises on her arms were healing. The head was most-likely doing the same.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A scattered cheer arose, mostly from confusion and indecisiveness, but the announcer crowned Rynk the winner of the brawl regardless. Rynk grinned slightly, but asked quickly “So do I fight someone else now?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Behind her, Acts walked up. “No, that’ll be it for now. You wanted a ride off this planet, right?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Well yeah, but…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But…?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">{I kind of wanted to earn it more…} “Never mind. Er… she’s gonna be okay, yeah?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’d assume so.” Acts walked to the echidna and gently lifted the head of the woman. “She’s fine.”  Two Glatorian members came out and carried the opponent out, and Acts led Rynk inside.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This time they went through a series of hallways that were not familiar to the norm of this arena. The cheering that had previously been gnawing at Rynk’s hearing was completely gone. “Where are goin’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“The break room… well the victor’s break room that is. You can hang out there until one of the ships is ready to leave.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay; cool. Are there other victors there?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes. Currently seven are inside. If you prefer to go rest that’s also fine. There are some empty break-rooms you can use.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re… pretty generous.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Does that make you suspicious?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, no- not really. I just, don’t really get why the pampering is happening.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You don’t have to feel weird. We do this for all the victors. If this were a favoritism thing we’d have people with their pitchforks banging at our doors for blood.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That, make sense.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Good.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The door opened into a large white room with various arcade machines, television sets, (most-likely Mobocanian stations) an indoor-bar, and a great deal of talking. Two male victors were arm-wrestling. Rynk decided to go watch that.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Acts walked off, closing the door behind himself. Rynk kept silent for most of her time here. She cheered on the arm-wrestling a bit, and a few times confirmed that she had won a battle, which most of the others shrugged off, and decided this was the only time she would be able to try a beverage.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The drinks were free so she asked for whatever was some form of an alcoholic beverage. What she received, she could not pronounce, and it tasted like urine. She promptly spat it out and hoped it would never meet her tongue ever again. It took many glasses of milk to get the taste out, and soon after she required a restroom break.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The victors pointed her in the direction she required and soon she was relieving herself. Upon exiting her stall she was greeted by a familiar face before blacking out. The original collar came back on, and Tella gave a triumphant scoffing chuckle.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Seven
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What is the occasion, commander?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“A secret invasion of Gei Si Heir is under way and I was told you have resources for us?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You needed to see me personally to acquire hardware?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Specifics. I need stealth-based soldiers with power. We are going to have a small fleet and advanced units are mandatory to eliminate a specific opponent. We need something that can neutralize a regenerator.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You want to kill Talia Reephs. Interesting.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Does that mean you have something for us?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Many. I will load up your carriers with what you need, but you’ll need a spear-head; a living person to single her out. It just so happens I have a new suit that I need to test-pilot, just as I need to test the abilities of its pilot.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay, then WHERE is the pilot?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“When do you need it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Emits Domain. The entire civilization gathered around the lake with the glass platform floating above it. Rynk was stationed at the center, held by a large chain connected to her collar. Tella stood in front of Emit, with guards surrounding.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You have my forgiveness, Tella.” Emit informed. “You are pardoned but we cannot ignore, or leave unpunished, your actions.”  Tella opened her mouth to speak, looking suddenly nervous while before feeling very accomplished.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You not only attempted to take the life of a member of the Domain, but left us instead of paying for your actions. Still, you proved your loyalty through your return, and your skillful acts have reclaimed us this new…” The echidna glanced to the lynx briefly, “fated… individual.” He turned back to the sheep-woman. “Your commanding position will be stripped from you until a time of the future, but you are a free member of the Domain once again. Let us hope this is a moment to forget emotionally, and learn from, productively.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tella nodded, giving her thanks to the grey echidna leader. She stepped down from the platform where she was then lifted up by Parl. The two shared a long embrace of lips. Rynk had her head down for most of this event. She was angry. She was angry that she was so close to escape, only to run out of time. She was angry that these people were going along with this. She was angry at Tella for not leaving completely when she had the chance. All that was left was to kill Emit if she could. That was all that mattered for she would surely die here.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You were given a choice to be a part of our society, MoonCat.” She whipped her curled face to the nickname-speaker, hissing. “THAT ISN’T MY NAME!” She stood up, tugging at the chains which caused the glass to crack below her feet.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes, it is. You will embrace that name, and you will submit.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Are you weak, Emit?” She teased with a mocking tune of a tone. “You don’t have powers. You are just a man. You’re use TECHNOLOGY and pretty words to brainwash people. I would ask you fight me, but you wouldn’t. None of you can fight me. You’re all reliant on this stupid place. It smells bad like sweat; coward sweat.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is that your last statement of defiance?” Emit questioned with a finger at his cheek and a thumb below his chin. He raised them to the side ever so nonchalantly. “Yes? Good. Are you ready to give your apology now?”  All he received was a snarl. “I expected not. Now then, on to the punishment.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A bear stepped forward. He was a man of youth, in his late twenties most-likely. “This is Epitosti.” Emit introduced. “Epitosti is your new master. You will perform his every need and do so with a smile. When you are ready to show your full devotion, your first act is to show the truest form of devotion. The regular custom is appropriate. A kiss will do.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk looked over at the bear. He was smirking. This was wrong. It was… animalistic. A punishment in the form of committing a pure evil act; turning something special and pure into a sign of submission? Oh… this bear was going to feel something touch his lips.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The bear closed his eyes as the young girl approached him, and awaited the embrace. His eyes flashed open when her snake-raddling hissing sounded too close to his comfort. He almost did not fall back fast enough to avoid his jaw being bitten off. Emit had the chain in hand, promptly yanking Rynk back before damage could be done. “Always doing things the hard way… Take her fangs!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Her ears went erect but immediately laid back. Her mouth closed and she tensed, only to have her body relax once again from the collar. Men carrying metallic tweezers made their way towards her, but Emit called out “Wait! That won’t change anything…  It matters not what we do to her.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The echidna motioned and the family… the gymnastic family, was brought forward. “You do not fear death. You probably want it.” Emit began. “You do fear for other people though, barbaric as you are. These three will die, willingly, unless you perform your new duty.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This is when things became difficult. “All this… over me.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Do not flatter yourself, Hellborn.” Emit hissed, showing finally a sign of anger. “You are far from the first to enter this situation.”  He raised a pistol at the family, and began to count down from ten.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was humiliation. It was corruption. She would have to go through with it… could she live with herself if she didn’t? Would she be able to if she did? It did not seem like much of a decision. Dying was not that terrible considering the circumstances. “Nine.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was either her pride… purity, or the lives of three people. No matter how much it hurt the decision was not something she could make selfishly. “Eight.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She glanced towards the bear. He was waiting, smiling once again. He was no longer phased. She jerked her head back away from his, panting deeply. She felt fuzzy. “Seven.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Quick… it had to be quick. Just a fast peck and that would be it. It had to happen. “Six.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Slowly, Rynk turned her head back around to the mobian. She forced her eyes closed. She could not watch; could not look at him while this happened. “Five.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Seconds four through one were spent with shaking breaths. She could not tell if she was actually moving forward but she had taken too long. One gunshot sounded and she sank a few inches. A second one followed a few seconds later and she sank again. She only opened her eyes back up when her chin itched. Blood. The bear had been shot.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk turned around slowly and saw as Ano clutched his stomach while falling on his knees. Emit positioned the gun now at the girls. Inxie pushed Zapix behind her; both looking terrified, and in that instant Rynk realized that she was reliving a previous sacrifice. She was not going to run this time. “That was an inconvenience. Any more lives that want to be wasted on the immoral acts of one stupid-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The chains tore from the glass floor and found themselves fastened around Emit’s neck. Rynk was thrown back as the collar exhausted her once again. Emit took hold of the chain, and yanked her forward after she had hit the floor. Her claws tore into his back as he did this, forcing a howling scream from the echidna as the metallic talons became hooked inside of a dreadlock.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He swiftly slammed her back to the ground, placing a foot atop her chest. One hand pointed the weapon at her while the other clutched a wound. Inxie and Zapix remained still; guarded with guns pointed at them by other members of the Domain.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He did not have the time to speak out some last quip. Everyone’s attention fell upon the roof of the Domain as it crashed open with a white stomach of an airship floating above them. Emit looked shocked most of all, muttering out “What do they think they’re doing…?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Dominion guards tore out long energized staffs from their sides, as golden armor formed around them. From the airship came the Glatorian soldiers from the prior hours. No more than ten landed, making large splashes that fissured the liquid like an aquatic canyon before it shot upward into a mist.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The area was humidified with the city surrounding the lake half-blinded by the mist. The opposing forces met, and collided in battle below the platform. One-third of the Dominion troops fought, while another third moved the other members away from the conflict. The remaining defenders surrounded those standing atop the glass platform to protect their leader.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">For the moment Rynk actually felt assured that things would turn out before Emit shot a careless bullet through her shoulder. She could hardly feel the impact in her current state, but that hardly helped her situation. His attention was on her and the battle was only recognized through hearing, and by the sound of it, the combat was not near enough to intervene with Emit’s blasting.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A second shot was expected, but instead Emit turned his attention to the fighting. Did he assume she would die from blood-loss? It did not surprise Rynk too much considering his limited knowledge of Banshees when they first met.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Before the grey echidna could involve himself in the fray, a gold-armored sol- no that wasn’t gold that was just yellow… it was the jaguar Glatorian. He was dragging Emit across the floor now, and had just slammed the echidna’s head against the glass, nearly shattering the floor completely.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You have my thanks, mind-eraser,” The jaguar growled with his low baritone vocals. “For the longest time I did not have the proper excuse to raise my hand against you, but I’m sure HE will understand this as a response to an act of war.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A cracking sound went off. Rynk saw the jaguar’s fingers… they had plunged through Emit’s collar-bone. The echidna lay motionless on the floor. “I leave you to your people to decide if they live in fear of a dead man.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The jaguar materialized a handle-shaped item, which sent a gust through the platform, clearing the vapor for all the members to see their leader. The Dominion guards were either dead or overpowered. The fight was over.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The jaguar walked over to Rynk and began to pick her up. Rynk flinched at first, almost thinking the commander was going to puncture one of her bones as well, but felt more safe when realizing she was not under attack. She looked down and saw that they had begun to float.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“W-wait…” She croaked. “Them…” She pointed at Ano, Inxie, and Zapix. “Help them please…” The jaguar turned to one of his soldiers, pointing to the requested individuals. Before the hatch of the airship closed, Rynk became satisfied by seeing Ano’s now collapsed body carried upward.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The corridors inside the white ship were not as bright and friendly. They instead were a semi-dark grey with white strips of light across the walls. Rynk assumed these were scanners of some kind. Despite this, she did not feel threatened. It was impressive to say the least.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was lead into a medical room where the new collar was removed. The next hour was spent with the spiked puncture on her shoulder being heated to melt and be molded back into place. Once this was done, a cast was placed around it. She would not be moving that for a few days at the very least.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The medics had to restrain her at one point after removing the collar, as immediately after this, all her tension imploded, filled with wailing, blubbering, flailing, and screaming. Her body needed to react to what had happened and was going to have permanent damage if she did not have time to do so.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was left alone once the process was finished, informed that once she felt able, she could leave to meet with the commanding officer. There was a sink nearby which the lynx used to wash away the residual blubbering-spewing and decided to see how the acrobats were fairing.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Aye, look who’s talking to the common-folk. You’re not here to see me, Doc, so what are you after?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Actually you are exactly who I came to speak with, Mr. Idolza.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So, who sold me out? Before there’s some incarceration?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You mistake my intentions. I have no interest in undermining your dealings. It is no concern to me. I am however interested in an item of mine that you sold off.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oooh. Okay, well last time I checked she was shipped off to Nekai. Some Emit person wanted her.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then that is my next stop. If you would be so kind as to join me, I would like to discuss a purchase of some vials you acquired from a disbanded special forces unit.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What’s the pay?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Prestige among the Black Market dealers, in many branching ways.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sounds good.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was not long before the lynx came across some guards passing by. She asked them for the location of the acrobats, specifically Ano. They did not immediately respond, and instead began tapping at the air in front of Rynk.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Uh… is there something in your way?” She questioned.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re the new recruit,” The guard mentioned.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… guess that’s one way of putting it. I want to see how Ano is d-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You need to get in uniform. Were you briefed?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What? … Oh, wait, you think I’m a recruit like I’m work here?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“…’Kay… well… I’m not. I’m just hitching a ride- hey!” The guards were clearly untrusting of this new face, and took her by the arms. One pulled out what appeared to be yet another collar. “Oh this is NOT happen again!”  Rynk kicked her foot upward and slammed her heel against the collar, smashing it to the ground while slowly yanking herself out of the grasp of one of the two guards.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">With an arm usable, Rynk quickly turned to the second guard, kicking him back to allow pressure against the first, which in turn gave the young lynx a stun-advantage. She dashed to the side, giving herself a good five feet of distance from them.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She held up her hands a bit while keeping her legs and feet still in a crouching position, should they continue attacking her. “I’m not after trouble! Mr. Jaguar-guy said he’d give me a lift, that’s all!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the guards began talking lowly, but Rynk could hear it regardless. “Commander Prime, we have a Banshee hitchhiker situation in Hall E-2, past right medical bay room seven.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Bladed short-staffs materialized in the guards’ hands as they stood in preparation for Rynk’s next move. If she attacked, they would attack, and if she ran, they would chase. If she did either, reinforcements would arrive. Fighting off hordes of people was only going to make things worse, especially considering her shoulder, which was hurting already from  having to yank free.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Right now, the lynx’s best strategy would be to act docile and passive. She kept her hands up, and tried to look cautious, not angry. “Ask the jaguar guy. Ask Acts! He’s here isn’t he? White Dingo? Tall?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The guards did not respond. They were awaiting orders. To their left-side wall, a yellow energy burned, and through it walked a very tall, very built, male fox, with dark faded brown fur, golden eyes, and a white muzzle. His armor had pillars at the shoulders going up, with the sleeves ending at the elbows. The neck was a rounded triangle that dipped a few inches low instead of being the turtle-neck most guards had. It was completely black with small purple lines around the arms, legs, and chest.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“How did you get on this sh-“ The commander stopped questioning when he noticed the brace on Rynk’s shoulder. He took a deep sigh with his large commanding, yet somewhat soft-seeming, voice, which only made him seem more… strong. He turned to the guards. “I don’t think she would know how to operate our medical bandages safely.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re the boss here?” Rynk asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I am the Prime Commander, yes.” He replied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why didn’t anyone tell you then? A jaguar commander said I could hitch a ride because I won a fight against an echidna woman. Where’s Acts?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Those Glatorians are on a completely different ship,” The Prime Commander informed. “When you were in the medical bay it must have been teleported to the main bay for your convenience.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“My convenience?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Their ship isn’t planning to leave Mobocan for a good few months. This one is… let’s talk elsewhere. Would that be alright?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… guess…” It was hard to feel good or trustworthy about any of this. So far it seemed to only be a misunderstanding. Every other group she ran into was controlling, but then again, she did not want to be involved with those to begin with. This was her choice. Still, it could have been a trick. If it were, she would find out later, but that would be the only change in results had she decided to attack right then and there.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The Commander Prime had them both teleported to a small officer. It had a few chairs connected to the floor with a table also connected to the floor. It was well-lit but had a single black texture.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The commander sat opposite Rynk. “I was informed about an attack on an Emit’s Domain hive a short while ago. You’re the reason there was an attack I’m guessing?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Wait did I get anyone in trouble?” Rynk’s ears flattened a bit. “I didn’t ask them to help me… I- I mean, I really am glad they did, but that wasn’t my idea…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I suppose I can see where they’re coming from. While we aren’t shy of killing people, Glatorians are very protective of the rare. Banshees aren’t going extinct yet from what we’ve seen, but… well you would know the issue better than I would. We’ve managed to help some escape from time to time, but only when absolutely sure it won’t be discovered.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You seem pretty powerful. Why don’t you just ruin Mobocan? You could probably stop it all.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We often measure the chances of success if we decide to save a world. There are a great number of reactions to consider if we were to turn against this planet. They would consider it an act of war, and have to turn against the Zone Police Corps in the process, and if the Zone Police are taken out, anyone who is connected to multi-dimensional involvement would be in fatal trouble. Then of course there’s the issue of Supreta’s main trump-card; the doctor.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk tensed… she knew who he meant. He earls laid back and her teeth grinded. “… Melcro…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I take it you aren’t a fan,” The commander noted flatly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I spent a good couple of years being his little test-subject, so no.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Test subject? That’s- … oh my- you’re his super soldier…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“How did you know that…?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I have been unable to avoid his company from time to time. He enjoys gloating very often and has mentioned you. He said that you were his greatest masterpiece, and most powerful catch.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s… infuriating but I’m really not. If I was I wouldn’t have a cast on me right now…” Rynk looked back a bit impatiently. “Is there something specific you wanted to say?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes. Sorry. This is just a bit everywhere at the moment,” The commander cleared his throat. “Your rescuing might have caused an act of war against us by Nekai.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I thought they were separate from Emit.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“They are, mostly, but it’s still on their land.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Acts told me they kidnapped your people! How is THAT okay!?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Up till now we did not have proof that those members were taken unwillingly. They were given the opportunity to return, and didn’t. I don’t feel good about what happened but to force them to return would have resulted in a worse situation. You however, still retain your free will.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah well it wasn’t fun. Am I getting a lift or not?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The commander tightened at the question, but swayed his head with a sigh. “Yes, you’re free to go if you want to… I was hoping…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… You want me to join this thing?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You have skills, and an appropriate reason to want order. I can’t promise Mobocan being… saved, at least any time soon, but if you were to join us, you could help special mobian types, specifically Banshees, more easily.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk shook her head, keeping her glance down. “Look… your whole set-up here—it sounds noble and all, but this is the fourth… maybe fifth, big organization I’ve met that say they’re great people. There was the police… End Ga… the gang… Emit… I just want to take a break from everything. To be honest I like the loner style mor- I- I’m just ramble now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s alright…” The commander cupped his hands, pressing them to his head. He looked far more distraught than expected.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You… seem more upset than… normal.” Rynk asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s just a flashback.” He brought his face back up. “I had-… Where do you want to be dropped off at?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk shrugged. “I have no clue where anything is. A planet that doesn’t have war like this?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… have a few in mind you might prefer I suppose. We’ll be leaving in a few days. If there’s anything you want to bring you’d best get them soon.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“There’s not much to bring… but there is some place I want to see if someone could drop me off there before we go.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright. Where?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well that is unfortunate. We can’t have mad-men dying everywhere. What will his follo-… remaining followers, think?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“The Glatorian did this, huh? I remember trying out one of their arenas once.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“And how did you fair?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I lost. I was in my late teens but it was still a thrill. I tried again about… eight years later, but everything was closed. Something about a prince running off.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Family matters tend to influence morale. I do not cherish the thought of meeting with Sparan again but if their technology is still on the planet, we will end this chase soon.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

Sequence Eight
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You… you were both nice, and you didn’t have any kind of reason to be. I don’t remember ever saying thank you, or… love you. I just stared and kept quiet and… did you hate me for it? I must have seem so ungrateful. I wasn’t, I really really wasn’t. I just became so bitter after that. If you were still alive maybe none of this would have happened. I could have stayed… not… killing, Va-Vault… There’s people I can’t face anymore. I can’t face Art, I can’t face Inxie or Zapix… I was going to see them but then they told me what happen with Ano. I keep try to do things right but I keep think about me. I keep feel like I should be justify and I’m not. I’m sure… I-… I’m sure you would have been the best parents… I wish I could have told you that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">[“D-… David, there’s…” A tall human woman, with brown hair and brown eyes, aged to her late twenties, looked down at the collapsed child inside a flower garden at her large golden wood-based house. It was early in the morning, which matched well with the robe the woman wore.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Coming up behind her was a dirty-blonde man with brownish-gold eyes, who was almost the exact size of his mate, and also with his age. He wore a robe as she did, and his expression was equally as stunned. “Is she breathing?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">They both had accents that were not originated from Supreta. They spoke in what sounded somewhat like Singskrit, but not quite the same. Their voices were more… still. They had been leaving in the country for quite a few years but where they came from before that was not known.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t know. Check! Before someone notices!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The man fumbled forward and knelt in front of the unmoving person. A steady breath was felt as well as a heart-beat. She was alive, but clearly not well-kept. Some parts of fur had completely torn off, with the metal exoskeleton glinting out from under that.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“She’s alive.” The man picked up the battered sleeper and carried her inside, setting her down on a nearby couch. “Eph, we… how do we handle this?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman shook her head with a finger cupped around her bottom lip. “I-I don’t know…  I mean if she’s found then they’ll-“ She covered her mouth, squealing faintly at the image of what might happen.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then we have to help somehow. We can… Th-there’s the smugglers! Everyone knows there’s smugglers that take people to Ytaris.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“How would we even contact, or find out how to contact, them?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Police might have records… but that may bring attention back here… For now all we can do is hope she’s okay enough… Maybe she has a family and got separated.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“The Underground? Where would we start?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t know…” The man stared at the coloring of the young Banshee’s fur. “Is that a normal Banshee color? Don’t they usually have black or white fur?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The woman walked over to observe. “She looks very… lynx-like. Perhaps one of the parents was a lynx?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That might explain why she was alone. One parent doesn’t want to take care of it because of their position, and the other isn’t allowed to exist.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s a terrible thing to think.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s not impossible. It’s quite common actually. Tischary-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Please don’t bring him into this.” The woman cringed. “Just the thought is disgusting.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“He’s done it before. Usually it’s birth-control that takes care of it, but not always. Many of them resort to that sort of thing to get produce.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t want to talk about that anymore… can we just, leave her alone, for now? I can’t believe she’s still sleeping.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That… that’s a good idea.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The small child eventually woke up and looked around the large room. It was like a waiting-room that people had in restaurants. There was a fireplace to her right, and many more couches in the same room. Some hallways were seen and to her left was a television with a large half-painted canvas on an easel.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The young girl was not sure how she got here. Her memory was fuzzy. The house was very nice but was she a guest or an intruder? It would be best to leave. Whoever lived here would get in trouble if they found her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She gathered… oh, that’s right, she had no belongings. All that she wore were torn jeans and a yellow shirt. She started to get off of the couch but footsteps covered her in a frozen state of the words “oh no”.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In her mind she had laid back down with her eyes closed again, but realized that in reality, she had not moved whatsoever. Her ears stood straight up, twitching back and forth at the sound.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is it hard to keep your ears up so long?” A woman’s voice asked from behind the girl. “It seems like it would be heavy.”  The ears collapsed to the sides of the lynx’s head. She did not respond outside of a constantly repeated “I- I, I- I” pattern.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You aren’t in danger,” Eph assured. “We found you in the garden… Do… you have… have someone taking care of you?”  The girl shook her head. “Well… you can stay here for now if you like then.”  Still the youngling kept silent, not moving to see the woman.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph did not want to bother the child but there needed to be some communication. “Are you hungry?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was the first non-Singskrit version of the word. “hunger” was the single word used for all versions. “I am hunger”, “I was hunger”, “I will be hunger”. When approached with this different-sounding version, the lynx mimicked it in a questioning tone.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes… hungry.” Eph replied, assuming this was a progressive reaction. “Do you want to eat?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh…” The young girl felt her stomach. With her attention on the idea of food, it became apparent that breakfast was required. A mute nod gave the answer.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“…Anything specific?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The girl shrugged. Eph was growing more and more uncomfortable. She did not want to pry, but the vague responses were not helping. It was understandable that the lynx would not be trusting, but now everything had to be based on guesses. Eph gave a simple “Okay” and moved to the kitchen.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David was inside, listening in. “What if she’s allergic?” He asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Then we… I don’t know,” Eph sighed. “We make sure we’re there to take care of it. Banshees adapt. I don’t think it will be a problem.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That’s true. Alright, well we should start baking then.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David brought the food with Eph at his side. They expected the girl to be exploring the house at that point, but she remained on the couch still. David carefully moved the tray of food in front of a coffee table in front of the couch, but the girl apparently was not prepared for even this, and upon actually seeing one of her hosts, she jumped, kicking her feet against a cushion as to push herself back.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David nearly dropped the food, spilling a bit of milk and water from the cups. He swiftly placed the tray down before any more harm could be done and called out to Eph for a towel. “I’m sorry for startling you.” He said. “Most kids like pancakes. I hope that isn’t a problem.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The small lynx didn’t seem to be comprehending what he was saying at first. She was gaping still, though her eyes were off to the far-right. “Are you thinking about something?”  She looked over to David as he asked this question.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David braced his knees as he rose back up from wiping the floor. “When people are remembering something they usually look up to the right.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Wh-…” The girl began, looking puzzled now. “What’s ‘ing’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… I’m… sorry?” David now looked puzzled himself.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You said..” She stopped after realizing the food in front of her. “… that’s… m-..ine?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If you like it, then yes.” David replied. The lynx did not touch the food at first. She instead would slowly look over at the human, then jerk back, hoping he did not notice, which he did. To relieve the tension she began tugging at one of her ears.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You can eat it now if you want.” David added once past a good seven ear-stroked. The girl stopped messing with her ear and reached over to the food. The male human was not able to notice how the lynx stroked her ear from his angle, but seeing how shaky and twitching her hands were now seemed far too strange to be simple nerves.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When the lynx grasped a fork, she held it tightly. When she raised it, her hand still shook largely. She had to grab the silverware with both hands to keep steady, and was not completely successful even then. She managed to cut one side of the syrup-soaked wheat-cakes, and then a second, but when she raised the stacked triangle she had to lean forward to take the bite.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Are you alright?” David asked. The girl chewed, but between smacks she answers “I can’t feel them…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Feel them? … Your hands?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She nodded. The girl went on to her second slice with the same slow and worrying result. Her hands started to loosen uncontrollably so she pushed them against the table, with the fork now pointed at her in a flat angle. She slowly moved her shoulder and head down to reach it, but the bite fell off before she could reach it. The lynx tried to catch it but ended up jabbing her nose on the fork. She jerked up with a small squeal, which was followed by several sneezes that she attempted to cover.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David’s first instinct was to get some tissues but she was nearly covered in mucus now. He walked out and came back with a warm wet towel. “Here.” He said as he slowly began to wipe of the girl’s face. She was not comfortable at this initially, but she kept still until her face and hands were cleaned off.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Once clean again, the lynx reached for the fork once again. David intervened, grabbing the fork. “Here. Let me take care of that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But…” She looked almost flustered. She clearly was not enjoying being babied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Okay.” David placed the fork down for her and stepped back. The lynx did not raise the metallic handle. She instead spent a rounded twenty seconds starring at it shamefully. She placed a hand on the fork, and scooted it to the left of the table, towards David.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The human took the fork and slowly fed the young girl until the meal was finished. “You’ll want new clothes, right?” He asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx looked down at her tattered attire and nodded. “Do you know your sizes?” David asked. She shook her head. “Alright, then we’ll get some various choices.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The two adults attempted to coax out a name from the child. She simply told them that she could not spell, or read. This was of course not a complete answer, but they had not gained her trust just yet. Maybe she wanted to learn. Before they would do anything more however, she needed new clothes, and a bath.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David nominated himself to get the clothes, leaving Eph home. While he went shopping, Eph decided to print out the Supretan alphabet. She showed this to the child and began going over the different letters.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The girl mimicked each letter and their sounds but when they came to the end, she asked “Where’s the ‘Y’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph, now surprised that a Supretan native would know an English letter, asked the lynx “How did you learn about the letter ‘Y’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The girl replied “They said to put it in things because it sounds ‘cool’.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Who’s ‘they’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx girl began to shake her head. This started to worry Eph because the girl wasn’t stopping. “You don’t have to answer.”  The lynx stopped shaking. Eph looked over the alphabet and pointed at the Supretan letter which made the “yuh” sound. “This is the Supretan way of ‘Y’.” She explained.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But… that’s a start.” The lynx noted.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“In my language it sometimes replaces this letter,” she pointed at the Supretan Long-E, “and this letter” she pointed at the Supretan Long-I.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It does? … Why does it do that?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“My language changed a lot.”  Looking over the letters and translations, Eph got an idea. “Here,” She pushed the letter-posters closer to the lynx, placing a piece of paper and a pencil next to her. “Why don’t you look over these, and choose how you want to spell your name?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The young girl widened her eyelids, looking at the dozens of figures in front of her. “Do you think I can?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Of course!” Eph shrugged humorlessly. “If you need help you can call me and I’ll come over, okay?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx studied the posters in front of her, analyzing them for a moment. She rose her head and nodded to the human. “… The man called you Eph. Is that your whole name?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“My full name is Ephphatha but that just got confusing, so I got by Eph. My husband’s name is David.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is his name short?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No it’s the whole name.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.”  The girl had stopped talking, giving Eph the assumption that it was time to leave. She moved to the kitchen and began making a list. She was brainstorming mostly, adding things to it that would be needed for purchase in case she could call David to pick them up. The possibility of adopting this girl repeatedly went through her head, mostly when considering the many rooms that could be candidates for a bedroom. She had to keep that out of her head though.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was pulled off-track when a small voice called out “I finished!”  Eph made her way to the living room where the lynx held up a small word reading “Rynk”. Eph took note of the capital English R’s placement, which had not been discussed in the posters. “So you know some about spelling?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t think so,” The lynx shook her head.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You capitalized the R, and you wrote it in my language.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… I wanted it to be important.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I remember the R at the beginning. I don’t remember the others. Do I need to change it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No, it’s fine.”  Eph looked over the name a bit more. “You put a Y too. How do you say this one?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, you said it can sound like an E, so I used it like an E.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So you pronounce your name as ‘reenk’?”  The lynx nodded.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I guess so.” The lynx shrugged.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph had many questions she could ask the little girl but she was not sure of which might hit a nerve if attempted. She decided to start with something simple. “Do you want me to call you ‘Rynk’?”  The lynx nodded silently.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lack of communication afterward drew out more tension from the human adult. She had little she found appropriate to talk about… no, it was appropriate but perhaps insensitive was a better word. This child was new to them and it was very likely she had gone through many tribulations. At the very least she had been alone, tired, dirty, and hungry, for a good while.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Apparently this girl who called herself Rynk was very tired still and fell back to sleep. Eph decided to stay with her until she woke up. She went back to writing her list which was cut short once again when David arrived back at the house with shopping bags.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m b-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Shhh!” Eph held up her hands frantically while stepping carefully over to David. “She fell asleep. Let’s put them in the kitchen for now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Good idea,” David whispered in agreement as they made their transition. “When do you think she’ll wake?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“A couple hours maybe. Let’s see what you bought.” Eph whispered back. David began to unload the attire. A set of underwear and a set of socks were the first to be pulled out, though these were of little consequence. He pulled out a few differently-colored plain T-shirts, various sizes of jeans, and a thin dark-blue sweater. “This was cheap so I thought she might like it.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“She might…” Eph looked over the length. “It seems a bit long but she might still like it.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Let’s hope.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Now the couple began to silence. Eph knew she could ask her husband what she would not Rynk so she did so. “Should we let her stay? F-for good?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David expected this question but he was not going to be prepared for it regardless. With a clearing of his throat he answered “If we send her anywhere else there’s no hope. I could try contacting some form of smugglers but they might track them back to us and get her anyway.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“So we’ll take care of her until we have an opportunity.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David nodded. “She at least needs to be given something for whatever journey she’s on.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph looked out to the couch where two tuffs of large ears stood up. She smiled faintly. “Well we did want children.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">To the couple’s fortune, Rynk did quite like the sweater. She said little about the rest of the clothing, but enjoyed having clean shirts and pants to wear. David was not pleased to find the shower clogged with a large pile of brown fur but he subsided his anger when he saw that there was little fur left on the Banshee/Lynx after showering.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It had been a week now and the little girl had grown back her fur. It was very soft and smooth though the black areas with the glowing blue made it difficult to mask. David and Eph assumed she would become restless of staying in the house all the time, but to their surprise the small girl never requested to be out anywhere outdoors, save their backyard once or twice.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was clear however that Rynk did want to go out to the world eventually. She would often stare at the flower-garden outside the house, noting that her favorite was a purple and light-turquoise one.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This was a rare occurrence where the supposed adopted child would initiate a conversation. Almost no information was shared. The most the couple received from her was her age, which was apparently around eleven. They were surprised by this. She was so short for an eleven-year old Mobian, especially since Banshees were known for their height. Perhaps it had to do with her lynx heritage.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk said little to nothing about her room outside of “This is for me?”, “Are you sure?”, and “Okay”. They did not receive a direct “thank you” but they did not dwell on it. It was implied always and that was all they needed. Her room was not extravagant. It had a closet, a dresser, a bed. Nothing else was required.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David and Eph tried to think of things to do for the child. David would handle studies with her, and taught the lynx how to spell in her native language. Occasionally he would insist that she attempt writing, which she was sensitive towards and often regressed to a head-lowering state of shame. Each time this happened they did their best to lift her spirits, but it was clear she was going to remain upset.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph questioned why they did not teach her English as well, but David simply informed her that it would be too much to force on Rynk. Eph was not content with just letting David handle education however, and decided to help with explaining the history. Before she taught Rynk however she read through the textbooks themselves, and even the ones that did not speak out against Banshees were very dark. This was no literature for the child to learn about.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David and Eph often let Rynk stay at home alone when they needed to. Rynk did not seem to mind, and spent most of the time walking around, practicing her letters, or sleeping. When she thought they were not looking she would also try writing with hand, which proved still very difficult. It was worrying to leave her alone with prowlers constantly around, but they had to keep suspicion from arising.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One day the two were coming home from work when they heard singing. It kept repeating over and over. Rynk was in her room so even with her ears she did not notice the door opening. The couple slowly made their way up to listen.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The warriors run down the small town,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">They lay to rest all the men’s hope.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">They burn and break all of the houses

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The defender’s spears have all broke

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">And the king and his men,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">With hearts of greed and sin

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">They watch and they lay down their swords

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Like cowards they lay down their swords…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The kingdom is crushed now and weeping,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The people are all but slaughtered

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The black Knight rises up his sword now,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Then the kingdom’s prey is slaughtered

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">For the King and the Knights,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Whose hearts matched not their words,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Only sealed what would make their end earned

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">They’d know that their doom was self-earned…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Cry, Cry

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Tears, Tears,

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The battle-cry and innocent’s tears

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">For they did not know why

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">It was them that should die

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">For the innocent blood spilt is cursed

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The ones who spilt blood were now cursed…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Up rose the red knight

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The single savior

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Valiantly, selflessly

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Our one protector

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Down came the dragons

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Metallic death

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Then down came the red knight

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">Clinging to breath…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The last of the people were dead now

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The soldiers all marched out with glee

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">The final words that were spoken

<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent:22.5pt">“Savior, oh please come save me”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The Refine… this was about the Refine. The small town was most-likely Rynk’s home-town… but she could not of been there during the Refine. She was too young. It must have been her parents. David recognized some of what was described. The protectors laying down their swords referred to Supreta lowering their defenses to allow the countries to come in and exterminate the Banshees and Nictrela. The Black Knight was probably symbolic for one of the Gei Si Heir smart-missiles. They were generally black, but perhaps it was just Gei Si Heir in general. The Red Knight puzzled him a bit though. The single protector? Usually that would be a White Knight.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David and Eph had not been living in Supreta too long. They read up on some of their history, but what was described here did not completely match with the textbooks. That was understandable considering the government. Oh Eph and David were treated well of course. Their kind were almost like gods to Mobocanians. Whatever they needed or wanted was provided. They never really asked for much, but the house alone that they lived in stood out quite a bit from the concrete buildings surrounding it. They knew how it was for the Banshees, and to some extent they agreed with the government. Banshees WERE dangerous… but they also knew about Ytaris.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ytaris, the Nictrela country, was self-dependent, and completely off the radar. There had never been any signs of attacks from their government, with the only “illegal” acts being the smuggling of people out of Supreta. Nictrela were technically more dangerous than Banshees because the majority had to take medication to keep their psyche level and not turn into rabid beasts. And yet, nothing had happened. The same could easily be said for the Banshees.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Right now they had a Banshee in their house, Eph and David. She was not hostile or dangerous-acting. She was simply introverted, and quiet. How they would play out the next minute was a mystery.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The couple did not know what they should do. Would they enter and stop her? She sang rather well, which was not a surprise, her being a Banshee; sound powers and such. They could wait. When she was done singing, she would come out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The couple made their way to the kitchen where they began preparing dinner. David had made a salad and was now looking for noodles to have sent to their house on the internet. They were out and forgot to purchase the correct brand so he took imitative.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While going through a bakery website a notification appeared on his screen. “Eph,” He called over. “The movie is available now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph walked over. “That took a while. Which one?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“300.” He answered. “Reminds me of the guy we saw in… somewhere.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I think it was… huh.” Eph chuckled. “Guess we’ll remember later. Anyway, go on.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You know. The professor… at the high-society school?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Right. He mentioned how things were ‘meant’ to be pronounced.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">They both chuckled. “Yeah,” David replied. “Funny how they got a completely different word from this movie.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well you want to watch it tonight?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… Let’s wait. I want to check a few things about that song Rynk was singing. It might take a little bit.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay… well we can’t wait for too long. It’ll be taken again.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We can purchase it now and wait.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright. Let’s go with that.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eventually Rynk was called down from her room to eat. What was placed on their plates looked and smelled scrumptious. Small chunks of white meat lay atop thick tube-shaped noodles, soaked in a creamy tomato sauce with a thin bedding of rice below it. “It’s pasta.”  David explained. “It’s an Italian meal.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Italian?” Rynk asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“An old country. It isn’t around anymore.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The three dug in to their meal soon after. Eph cupped her hands before eating, which Rynk took note of, but she did not think much of it. She loved the taste of this meal. It was filling and tangy and bursting with flavor. It was chewy and slurpy and satisfying. She ate four  servings, leaving no leftovers afterward. When asking for a fifth she was finally denied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I think that’s enough.” Eph said. “Eat too much and you’ll get stomach-cramps.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk nodded understandingly. David noticed her slowly taking small bits of noodles from the serving bowl but he did not address it. If she got a stomach-ache it would be a lesson about over-eating.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We heard you singing early today.” David informed. Eph stiffened, worried about what the reaction would be. The lynx girl was surprised definitely, with her ears drooping to her sides in embarrassment.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It was very pretty.” Eph added quickly. “Did you make it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx shook her head. “I remember it.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… O- W-well uh,” David cleared his throat. “I did some research and found out about the Red Knight in the song. I printed out the files if you want to read what happened.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But… I can’t read well yet.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We can look over it together if you want. Would you like that?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx thought over the situation and then nodded gradually. Eph started to clear the table and David soon returned to now uncovered furniture with a laptop. He pulled up a website where a picture of a red-hooded figure stood at the icon. He began reading over the information to Rynk.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The information was filled with phrases such as “It is rumored that?” “it cannot be confirmed that” “We assume that”, but a series of matching situations formed a story.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It began with a comet that hit a hidden special ops base positioned inside of Rictisss. The comet was discovered to have been a species called “Identity”. The identity was found to be very docile, and highly intrigued by the new world. She said little but sought information constantly.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eventually the identity, who went by the name “Kaiya”, was recruited fully by the special ops unit. Their mission was to observe and sabotage a special project by the Rictiss empire, which was to escape Mobocan. The Organization informed her that leaving the planet would endanger the entire population simply by opening a portal.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">With false information fed to her, and a limit to the information acquirable about the world, Kaiya quickly infiltrated the project. The Op underestimated her intelligence however, and the identity quickly discovered intel concerning the portal-project, the government, and her employers.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Now refusing to let the Supretan Operation continue, Kaiya dismantled the infiltrators, and revealed them openly to the Rictiss Empire. With a strong fury towards the Supretan government, Kaiya made her way to the country of Supreta to lay waste to its leader(s) and plotters. Unfortunately she now underestimated them, and was captured soon after arriving.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The Supretan government attempted to reprogram the identity to no avail, but kept her as a mystery for the time. They knew that the Rictiss Empire would say nothing as it would draw attention to their project. So, for a series of years, Kaiya was the Supretans’ captive.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The identity gave up quickly on escaping for the time being, and decided instead to train herself more. She secretly researched the planet and while drained regularly inside of her cell, she kept a remote pool of Chaos Energy building up that she would draw from upon her escape.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eventually the day of the Refine arrived. Kaiya had freed herself at this point but remained in hiding as she secretly sabotaged the technology and shielding around Supreta. She was not aware that this helped the country when they let Gei Si Heir, and Nekai, in to destroy the Banshees and Nictrela of the planet.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Kaiya activated the energy pool she had been building up, and intervened on the conflict, saving as many Banshees as she could while also taking down as many hostiles as she could. Unfortunately, with the combination of her Nanites burning off from the overuse of energy, and the constant barrages of enemy fire, Kaiya was brought down.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The article concluded by saying that it is unknown whether the identity is still out there, but that all information provided has been passed down as directly from her. David was a bit skeptical of this considering the constant “rumor” statements, but it matched up with the events well.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk was wide-eyed, but she did not seem negatively affected. “Maybe that should have waited till tomorrow morning,” David mentioned in hindsight. Rynk did not reply. She was too deep in thought. She seemed to react when the adult closed the laptop screen however, and asked “Are there any pictures?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… uh,” David set the laptop back down and began to search for pictures of Kaiya. He found many but they were all drawings. Some people dressed up in hoods and used special effects to look as though they were something else, but comments in the pictures soon proved otherwise. When returning to the article however, it was now gone.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk had been watching and she saw David’s face. He had his hand cupped around his mouth, half pondering, and half worried. He refreshed the page but nothing happened, so he did it again, and again, and again, but the site did not appear. He spent a moment with his hands away from the computer, still starring at the screen, trying to decide on what this could mean. It could be an error… but it was probably something dangerous.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David began erasing all memory of the website encounter from the computer’s history, deleting cookies and all possible files with the word “Kaiya”, “Identity” and “Red Knight”. The young lynx was puzzled at this but kept silent; hoping that David had things under control.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The next day David and Eph were supposed to go work but decided to stay home. They were worried. Rynk eventually got up the nerve to ask “What’s wrong?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph explained “We just need to stay cautious for a little bit. In a few days things will be alright.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The small lynx was not convinced but she did not protest. Eventually she was sent to bed, but David and Eph stayed up, wide-awake with tension. “Let’s watch the movie,” David suggested at 11:32 P.M. “If we’re going to stay up we might as well.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph agreed and soon they were viewing 300. “2006…” David chuckled with a hint of melancholy. “Did your parents live from then?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nuh-uh,” Eph shook her head. “Grandparents… during the 75 years.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s too bad film digressed since then.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“On this world anyway…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The two attempted to remain silent throughout the movie as it played, but various scenes caused them to be more and more appalled. The blood-spatter was expected from such a movie, but the nudity, and scene after scene of gore… it was not appealing to them. David finally turned off the movie and they decided at 12:49 P.M. to go to bed.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">What the couple did not know, or expect, was that Rynk was still awake. She had kept from telling them that she got energy at night. She had slept at night here and there, but she was sent to bed too late often.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk had heard about this movie from Eph and David, and she heard the noise from downstairs. So… she snuck out and turned it on. Because of her amazing hearing, the small lynx kept the volume at the lowest setting. She watched the entire movie, but fell asleep after it was over, with the TV-screen still on.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph was the first up that morning, and she found the collapsed little girl in front of the TV set. She turned off the television and began thinking over what to do about this. First thing’s first; she woke up the little Banshee-Lynx, shaking her gently.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk moaned tiredly as she was lifted up on to the couch. “We snuck out last night, didn’t we?” Eph asked. Rynk blinked for a moment, then bursted her eyes open.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I-I- I, it- I we-… mm…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You watched the movie?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk lowered her ears. There was no point in lying. She nodded shamefully. “Y- you didn’t say I couldn’t and I was awake… I- I’m sorry- I’ll go-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph stopped her right there. “Wait… ‘Go’?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… I don’t have to go?” Rynk’s ears perked a bit.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You don’t have to go… I want to explain something though… actually,” Eph walked over to the TV-screen and began deleting the movie from the memory. “How much did you watch?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“A-all of it?” Rynk cringed, her head lowered so far that she began to resemble a terrified vulture.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“What do you remember?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“There was a lot of fight… and the king said ‘This is sparta’.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Is that it?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… The rest was kind of gross…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well it’s good we know how you feel about that,” Eph sighed, turning back to Rynk. “Rynk… do you know what Rated-R means?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk shook her head. “It means ‘Restricted’” Eph explained. “They used to put it on movies that children shouldn’t watch.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Adults are allowed to watch it though?” Rynk seemed more curious than rebellious with this question.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“But isn’t it bad? Shouldn’t they not watch it too?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Movies changed… ratings changed. It used to be about preparing for things we need to know… now it’s just things that hurt us… or that’s how it used to be.” Eph sat next to the lynx. “How do your eyes feel?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“M-my…?” Rynk touched her eyes worryingly. “A-are they bleeding?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“No but looking at a TV too long can hurt them.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… Am I in trouble now?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I think you’ve had trouble enough. You should eat… then spent some time outdoors for a bit. Some fresh air will help with all that exposure.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk nodded obediently and started to get off of the couch but halted. She turned to Eph again and started to raise an arm… maybe she was going to hug her. She did not go through with it. She went off to the kitchen.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David was awake now and took Eph aside in the hall. “I’m needed at work. Are you comfortable being here with just the two of you?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“We should be okay,” Eph said, attempting to assure him. In truth she was very worried, but to not go to work would cause more suspicion.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Are you sure you aren’t needed too?” He asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can risk one day of uninformed absence,” She replied.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Okay.” The husband kissed his wife and was soon out to the city. It was just Eph and Rynk. It was obvious the day would be a long one when a crash went off from the kitchen. Eph jolted in to find a glass destroyed on the floor with Rynk apologizing one-hundred times a minute.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph tried to calm Rynk down with gentle it’s-okays but Rynk just kept apologizing. Eph finally yelled “Stop!” and Rynk went silent. The human pulled over a broom and began cleaning.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… This STUPID hands!” Rynk slapped the backside of her left arm against the table.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Were you trying to pour something?” Eph questioned as she poured the glass into a trashcan.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I messed it up,” Rynk pouted. “It didn’t work.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Didn’t work?” Eph asked.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… I was trying to use my hands right… I was practicing.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“How were you practicing?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk led Eph into her room and showed her a bunch of papers scattered in stacks. Most of them were scribbles, with some torn, but a few were recognizable drawings and words. Eph held up one that had a full sentence. “Some of these are pretty good.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… How?” Rynk was astonished.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay, they aren’t amazing but you’re at least literate.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can’t draw anything though.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“In time… Wait here.” Eph walked out and soon retuned with stencils. Some were circles, suns, moons, hearts, people, animals, and so on. “You can use these for practice.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk caught on to the idea quickly and began outlining with the stencils on some paper. When finished she had made a three-dimensional box. It was jagged in some areas, which upset Rynk, but Eph did what she could to lift the lynx’s spirit.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eventually they transitioned to the backyard. It started out with drawings, then moved on to botany, specifically flowers. Rynk found out that the one she liked so much as called “Moso Lu”. She thought the name was weird but enjoyed how pretty it was.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">From botany they moved to the backyard tree. Rynk loved climbing up and down from it. Eph told her she had to keep from being seen. Rynk did the best she could to obey but her large ears often stuck out from the leaves.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">From there they went on the swing attached to the tree. From there they drew flowers. From there they went back to climbing. From there Rynk tore her sweater and nearly had a heart attack before Eph told her they could sew it to look just as good as it used to. After that Rynk insisted on helping and ended up stabbing her finger with the needle, which frightened Eph. After that, Rynk agreed to let Eph do the sewing.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Soon it was late and David had returned from work. The girls informed him of their day and since the following day would be free from work entirely, they decided to make it a special picnic.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Unfortunately that day was spoiled when rain arrived. They attempted to have the picnic indoors but it simply was not as enchanting. The day after this however…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Eph was reading a book in the backyard… WAS…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David opened the door and there they stood; government agents. “Sir we’re from th-“ David interrupted the man very loudly “Government officials!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The man took a step back from this random outburst. He did not know there was a Banshee in the house… or that David wanted the Banshee to hear him. “You’re here about a website, right?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That is correct, Sir,” The official replied. This wolf mobian in front of David had no intention of seeming intimidating. David towered over him, and was clearly unaffected (on the outside) regardless of the armed men surrounding his front lawn. “May we see your computer?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… yeah, ya’ can,” David motioned for them to go to the kitchen and brought over the computer. “I already wiped the memory.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The wolf widened his gaze for a moment. “May I ask why, Sir?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“This is why,” David replied. “You think I want the government ransacking my house? He quickly developed a tired-sounding slur tone, trying as best he could to seem like too little a problem. “So I got a little curious about a website that popped up. When I saw it was taken down I knew something was up.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mr. Quevil, you were the first to see the website before it vanished.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This piqued David’s curiosity. “Really? Well that’s timing. Look you have a field day with my computer if you want, but when I’m found innocent, pay me back please.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“If you have nothing to hide, Sir, we won’t be long.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Good! … Good…” David stumbled over towards the upstairs. Two of the armed officials began following. “Do I need an ESCOURT?” He asked angrily. “What, you wanna help paint the baby’s room?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The wolf began to speak some more but when David saw Eph being dragged inside by more guards, he started to become inwardly furious. “Get your hands off my wife, captain! … Or whatever your position is. You want a pregnancy test?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Actually we w-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“That was rhetorical!” David yelled. “That’s not your business… Alright look, you can take the comp, but leave us alone. We’ve got immunity and you’ll get in trouble.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The wolf’s ears perked up to this as his hands tensed. “I beg your pardon?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David shook his head, then lowered the shoulder of his shirt. A dark stripe lay there. “You’ll find a few others on my back but… well that’s also none of your business. We’re a rare species after al-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“HB SITUATION! RUNNER ON MY NOSE!” A voice yelled from the backyard. Screaming from both the man and Rynk went on as he yanked her off of a fence and drug her over. The guns rose at her, David, and Eph.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mr. Quevil, is that the baby you were talking about?”  The wolf asked, still remaining emotionless facially.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David said nothing. He was observing his surroundings and options. He could tank a few bullets if he needed to, but Eph and Rynk needed to escape. He wasn’t going to have an option for that without an opening.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the guards noticed that Rynk began to breathe in and out slowly and largely. “What’s she doing?” He asked, gaining the attention of the others.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While this hybrid did not currently possess the sonic blast abilities of most Banshees, she still retained a voice. She let out as large a screech as she could, piercing the surrounding people’s ears. David and Eph were affected but forced themselves to move, grabbing hold of Rynk and darting for the stairs.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Shots blasted behind them, one rather potent blast hitting the stove which was in use. A fire started up. David kept to the back, and had already suffered a few bullets to his body. They entered Rynk’s room, but lacked a plan of escape. There were no windows, and they were not going to escape by destroying the walls. That would take far too long.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David was pressing the door shut while Eph and Rynk slowly inched the bed to the door. Behind the bed however was a small air-duct. It looked barely large enough for Rynk to fit through, let alone anyone else, but it went directly outside, save for a generator at the other part of it.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The walls were already getting torn apart. Rynk was shoved into the pried-open rectangle, a painful experience to say the least. She instantly felt crushed, and it was hard to breathe, but David continued to push her through.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It hurt, it hurt so much. Rynk could feel her own bones scraping against each other, but unable to break. She was crying and screaming, but she did not tell them to stop. She was forced against the generator and eventually it broke off but not before a barrage of gunshots went off, covering Eph and David.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">David was so utterly destroyed that two of the bullets hit Rynk. They dug through her metallic bones. These people were prepared. Rynk fell through the tiny tunnel and on to the grass below. She was barely conscious at this point, and a green energy field was starting to appear around the now burning house.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Something grabbed her and she wanted to stop whoever it was but she was still too stunned. She heard a tearing and felt something wrapping around her ankle and leg. Whoever had pulled her away was using her sweater to bandage her leg. She was safe… but Eph, and David, were dead.]

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I guess it wasn’t… that special really. It was so brief but you were such nice people. It doesn’t do you any good now I guess but… I do love you both… if I knew what you might have wanted from me in the future, I- I just hope it… m-makes you- w-would have made-…  I’m sorry.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Footsteps. She wasn’t alone. “Took quite a while to catch up with you,”  [I know that voice… I KNOW THAT VOICE!]

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The claws tore out and she slammed into Idolza, driving her sharp tips into his stomach as far as she could before he fell down. He was in pain definitely but laughing. “Got that off your chest?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“WHAT DO YOU THINK!?” She screamed, preparing to cut his head off. She was yanked back, thrown into the air nearly one-hundred feet. When she landed, it was soft, as if gravity weakened for that single moment.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She plopped to the ground, and then HE addressed her. “My precious little girl. I need you for something.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She did not recognize this voice… wait… yes she did… it was famila-…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk tore her face up, eyes blazing and muscles aching to fight. “You’re Melcro…” She hissed. “YOU DID ALL OF THIS!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… Well I made all of you if that’s what you mean. Pleasant dreams.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Darkness

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

SEQUENCE NINE
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He knew the word that Emit used to place her under the hypnotic trance. That meant Emit was alive… or one of his followers told Melcro. Rynk was barely conscious at the moment and found herself immobile in what felt like a tight leather suits. It felt like a straight-jacket, but she could see that her arms were at her sides, before the eye-holes were blacked out that is.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You won’t have to worry about that mean man’s trigger-word anymore,” Melcro informed in a faintly teasing voice. “It isn’t that I don’t approve of the idea, but I certainly don’t approve of other people branding my creations.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk only managed to produce a low hiss at him. She could feel random pressure in different areas of her body as if thing were being slapped against her… or onto her. Was she getting armored? She faintly made out the doctor’s face moving about up and down and all around. He was the one equipping her.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re probably wondering what the point of this is,” He continued. “Well this is going to be a test-run. You haven’t mastered your new body completely of course, but this suit will take care of that issue. I needed a test-run to check on your progress since your departure. I’m glad to know your mind wasn’t completely damaged though there are definitely some issues. That is of course your own fault for breaking out of the process… or perhaps it would have done little to change things if you stayed. Who knows?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She now felt herself being picked up, but her body was stiff as a pole. She was being carried but she could not see now. “You have an assassination to complete. Once your mission is over you can return to whatever it was you were doing before. I’ll come get you when I feel the time is right.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She thought he was done talking but then he started up again after a short pause. It was as if he was upset she didn’t reply. She couldn’t reply though, which he understood, evidenced by the following “Oh ‘But why would you let me go instead of keeping me around so you could use me when needed’ you might ask. Let’s call it faith, shall we? It’ll be a test. You die and I get to see how amazing my skills at necromancy are, and if you run into deadly situations, like now, it’ll stand as proof of your skill. Now my little DarkShade- Oh you’re growing up so fast!”  He cleared his throat. “Apologies, that was rather unprofessional. Have fun.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was glad Melcro finally stopped talking but who exactly would she be killing? What was this “DarkShade” business? Was that the name of the suit?

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was blind now, but the suit did not limit all of her feeling. Her stomach turned for a moment. She was falling. Rynk could feel a rhythmic push against her… water. This was water. Her arms were moving on their own, as well as her legs. She was paddling. Something hard hit the lynx’s leg but failed to harm her. This was land.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She was climbing now. The structure was pointy and jagged. She jumped and flung and dashed around and over strange dips and spirals. Whatever she was going up was not a building or a… no that pretty much summed it up.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A second push was felt on Rynk’s back, this time in ripples. She was in the air. Now she was rolling. It felt like an explosion. Up till now the lynx was biding her time while regaining her stamina, but she felt no stronger than prior, and her body seemed to be at the whim of this suit, exhausting her further. So because it would not relent, she began resisting… or trying to resist. She yanked her head, stiffened her arms, trying to turn away from her target, but of course this would not work.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The next thirty minutes were chaotic. There was so much movement, from jumps to kicks to punches to throwing. She was in battle. There were punches at her sides, a knee in her face, a kick at her chest. She could not tell who was winning.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Something weighted began to form in her hands now. It felt like a pole or a handle. Was it a sword maybe? Whatever it was, it became her new weapon. The fighting went on, but with a large swipe she had apparently knocked an opponent far away. Rynk felt the weapon disappearing now but then actual pain rain through her body.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx felt as if she were burning. Her fur was on fire until it vanished and was replaced by something new. Something stabbed into her hands. Was this the suit’s doing or an enemy? The pain had stopped but now a strong spice sensation went on in her mouth and throat as ripples of her blood went from her shoulder through her arm. Was she excreting something outward now?

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This new… sensation did not last very long. A strong blow to the head caught the suit’s attention. Rynk actually felt pain from the new strike. Either the suit was running low, or whoever hit her was really strong. A whole new fight was going on now; this one worse than the others.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk found herself slammed into walls, thrusted into the air, and driven into the ground until she was in an arm-lock and some strange mist began eating away at the suit, slowly. The suit went into overtime yanking free of the arm-lock, but a barrage of the strange mist blew through her face. The mask was evaporating. She could almost make out what the figure looked like, but apparently the suit was still functional.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Her opponent seemed to be weakened by using the mist and Rynk was not brutally tearing at her face. Strangely with each swipe of her metallic claws a surge of pain went off in any area burned off from her suit. Rynk attempted once again to push against the suit, but it remained in control even now.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was not until the ground began to rumble, and an explosion sounded, did the suit relent its attack. The explosion was between the two fighters, and the remains of the suit were being destroyed by its pressure. Rynk was in no state to stay conscious during this.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Upon opening her eyes again, the lynx found that her mask was almost completely gone, save a bit of the chin and forehead. She was laying on the ground with a sensation of butterflies going through her stomach. She looked to her side and realized that she was falling. Her arm was caught on some part of a… [I’m… I’m on an air-craft carrier!]

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Apparently the suit had enough power to hold her in place, but Rynk yanked herself free quickly. This thing was going to crash and explode… wasn’t it? She looked for the nearest dropping point, and while scanning the area she could see the very conscious opponent, before they crashed into Rynk in an assault.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It was a female feline with white fur and black hair. Her eyes were large glowing yellow circles and she looked mad. Rynk probably could have explained at least a small amount of what was happening, but she was not going to. Her concern was getting out. The cat woman was still weak from the battle, making it easy for Rynk to slip her foot to chest-level, and kick her back down. “Sorry- it’s not m-…” She sighed. “Forget it.”  And with that, Rynk leapt off of the Aircraft Carrier.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A large black spike caught her, which she stayed atop until she saw the explosion. The lynx did not want to take any chances. She became worried if the white cat was dead but she seemed capable enough to get out of the way in time. Whatever had happened here was now over. Rynk wanted to leave.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk looked down for a ledge of slip towards. She noticed one but it was just as black as her own current standing-point. Was this a mountain? She turned to the wall of this landmark. “Wait a second…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In all of Mobocan there was always one specific location that remained a constant mystery. No one knew how to break it open, and many who ventured to it did not return. It was a gigantic continent-wide-and-tall mountain of a pillar with scribbles covering its black shiny walls. The Gei Si Heirens called it “The Great Blackness”. Supretans referred to it as “Cresha Fundani” which translates into “Death Foundation”.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Supretans called it this because it was the base for where Gei Si Heir made itself hundreds of years ago. They would make stories about it was filled with the sins of the Geisers. Rynk never believed this of course. She considered Supretans to be just as bad. Up till this recent adventure she didn’t give Nekai people much thought, and while she sometimes thought fondly of Ytaris, it wasn’t really an option at the time. She knew there was another country called… Rictiss. She wasn’t sure where they were.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Right now she just wanted to get off of this rock before something else happened. It did not take long to get to the bottom, which to Rynk’s surprise actually had a docking station with sand. It looked almost normal. A boat was in the distance and no one was in sight. She could have taken it… if she had any idea how to drive it.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While searching for the owner, Rynk heard a small clink from the back of her suit. She reached back and felt a rectangular container. Was this the control box? She pulled it out with some strain and found inside a set of glowing red vials. “Huh… these might be useful”. Rynk decided to keep the strange energy with her and go on with her search.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She ended up fruitless across the white-sanded beach, but upon returning towards the transportation, Rynk caught a glimpse of a figure stepping into it. They were going to take off most-likely, and that meant her only way off.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx dashed across the sand loudly, which thankfully was not given mind to as the motor of the boat started up. She made it in to the back just in time to fall backward from the jerk of the machine moving forward, causing many rippling thuds to follow.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The driver took notice of this, and Rynk knew they would. Just as the boat began slowing to its pause, the lynx scaled the top of the outer wall and sat upon the roof, crouching and crawling to different sides when the driver looked in her direction.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">At one point it seemed as though the boatman, who was a very surprisingly pale human, thought they boat had hit something on the shore, and thus he briefly examined the lower regions of his ride. Once things seemed to be in order the boat started up again, and Rynk had decided to keep to the roof.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The hybrid did not mind the movement much, not as though she had a choice to begin with. She did start to think however “What’s next?”  She still had quite a bit of funds from her hidden Purmi stash. That would of course mean she would have to go back to Supreta to get it, but strangely enough, after spending some months in Nekai, Emit’s Domain specifically, Rynk found the idea of Supreta to be less repulsive.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk decided to think past how she’d get her money again. [Where would I go?] She thought. [… Rictiss maybe. I should probably find out how things are over there first. Then again, Nekai is always an option. I don’t think I’d need money for that. I could get this guy to drive there… but then there’s the desert surround it. I guess we’ll see.]

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A day had passed now, and Rynk managed to keep herself awake by the lunar energy of the moonlight. She solemn looked down at the ship she sat upon, but one time she decided to glance down, she saw that the boat was no longer there. She could feel it, but… [Cloaking… Why is it cloaked?]

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She kept her eyes ahead now. The driver still hadn’t seen her. It was probably not cloaked on the inside. The thin faded shield of yellow energy made known to Rynk where they going. It was the energy shield surrounding Supreta. A small tunnel shot up from the ground, welcoming the boat. This boat… this driver, was part of the government? It must have been part of the attack… to confirm it went well maybe.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk was not interested in more fighting-her-way-through-everything at the moment. As soon as the boat was far enough through the tunnel, the lynx leapt up to the ceiling of this tunnel, and rammed a fist through it. She was injured, but it was nothing she wouldn’t heal from. The worst part was digging through the concrete above. The occasional “scree” was incredibly irritating and with minimal elbow room, scrapes were inevitable.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Fortunately however, as Rynk dug upward, she discovered a tingling sensation in her fingers. She was frozen with surprise at first, but realized after some testing that it was not her hands that felt the scraping, but her claws. She could feel the vibrations through her bones. She wondered why it only happened now. Perhaps it was because of the intensity of pressure she had to apply that made it… feel.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A near hour later and Rynk had hit moist, soft, soil. She squeezed it and rubbed it against herself in relief for something not concrete before bursting out of the ground and into a small patch of grass underneath one of the Supretan docks. This entire area was guarded by military.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx poked her head out of the side and saw that the dirt and grass stretched all the way into the city. She decided to take advantage of this, and burrowed a tunnel through until surfacing once again out of sight of the enforcers.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Her mouth was full and covered in dirt which Rynk promptly spat out, gagging occasionally as she searched stealthily for some kind of rinse. No fountains were in sight, which did not surprise her considering her location looked very much like Semretches, so she took it upon herself to silently cut out a window of a nearby house, and clean off in their shower.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">After confiscating some nutrition, and a set of clean clothing, Rynk set out to get her stash. She noticed on her ankle that her makeshift anklet-brace remained… the sweater. Why Melcro let her keep it, she did not know, but she did know that this was his main headquarters, and that she wanted out.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The hybrid stopped by at Idolza’s hideout once out of Semretches, looking for more of the serum to hide her Banshee traits. They would not last long as she recalled, but they would help, and if Idolza was there by any chance, taking him out would be an added bonus.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As she went through the safehouse’s things, a growing feeling of sorrow overtook her for a brief moment concerning Idolza’s deceased college. Rynk was partially grateful that it was not her fault someone died that time, but he was far more understanding and tolerable than Idozla himself and could have had a better future had things gone differently. If by some means the lynx located the murdered man she may have paid her respects, but the body was no-doubt moves months ago.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk did manage to find a few of the medicines as well as a good hundred-plus Purmi that would be useful for the road. After taking out her aggression from all recent events on the establishment, Rynk departed and a few days later arrived back where she had placed her stash.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Thousands of Purmi still remained. Rynk placed the vials where the money was and took the container, a large briefcase, with her to… wherever she felt like going. She was thinking over her next move when fireworks started up. She cringed at the popping sound’s painful zapping to hear eardrums, though she did enjoy the sound of popping regardless. It was the New Year for Mobocan… a new year… maybe that should mean something.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk continues onward, and found herself walking by a casino back-door. She did not recognize it at first, but the conversation inside piqued her curiosity. It was some kind of criminal organization by the sound of it. Someone was crying, being tortured for information and money. Perhaps this would be her New Year’s resolution…

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The metal door was knocked off its hinges, and before a shot could be fired, Rynk was already tearing off a limb of one of the enforcers. They were mostly mobian, but some humans surrounded as well. Cutting off the man’s arm was energizing… but… she did not want to rip people up right now, or ever. Rynk had too much of that lately.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the members seemed to recognize the large-eared feline. “You’re that Hellborn from the news!”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk stared at the man with shock and confusion. “You remember that far back? Huh…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Demon Steel right?” The most well-dressed of the men addressed. “Here to kil-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Rynk slid across the floor, swatting the man into the wall with a popping kick. “My name is RYNK, Well-Dress, and I’m here for my own reasons.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Gunfire and screaming; the sounds that followed Rynk everywhere. This was her normal it seemed. The men were dispatched with, the only fatality being the now armless man who had lost too much blood. Rynk had finished carving small crescent moons into their foreheads and walked over to the whimpering tied-up hostage.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">She cut off his bonds and asked “Gonna tell me what you were gonna tell them?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“I- y-“ The man was going to be stammering for a good long while. Rynk hissed a long irritated sigh. “Just tell me who they are, okay?”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“M-m- Merc-cy…”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… If I wasn’t going to show mercy I wouldn’t have saved you, wou-“

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“N-no!” He interrupted. “That’s them.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“… ‘Mercy’? … the Mercy Gang?” Rynk was not impressed. “I guess it’s better than ‘Heavy Metal’. At least it sounds original. It’s best you get out now.”

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The man half-nodded before getting up, tripping, getting back up again, and then dashing out the door. Rynk walked over to the man who died of the blood-loss. “… You can’t understand me now, so I guess apologizing’s pointless… Sorry anyway.”

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The lynx left the Casino room feeling satisfied. A door began to open from inside the Casino—the security probably—so she made herself scarce. After recovering her belongings, Rynk decided that perhaps she could use some well-deserved pampering… a new look maybe. After injecting herself with an appearance-changing concoction, the lynx strolled into a large Supretan Mall. A two-piece purple dress caught her eyes. It would need some changes but she wouldn’t mind indulging a little bit.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">For now, she was going to just go wherever, do whatever, and on the way maybe save some people. Emit was dead. Melcro had nothing to do with her at the moment. If anyone was after her, she was going to be ready from now on; a lone hybrid on the streets of Supreta.

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<p class="MsoNoSpacing">THE END