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TITLE: Avoiding the Ghiron Outpost
AUTHOR: Anne Sealey
TYPE: Story
RATING: G
DISCLAIMER: The characters in Earth: Final Conflict do not belong to
me, but toTribuneEntertainment, Kirshner-Roddenberry, Atlantis and
related companies. I am making no profit and no infringement of
copyright is intended.
SPOILERS: "The First Of Its Kind" through"Dimensions".
Set between "Dimensions" and "Moonscapes". Forshadowing of
"Moonscapes" but nothing big.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Ghiron is as close as I can get to the outpost
Da'an mentioned in the Taelon legend. This is another of my attempts
to get over Boone. Its meant to explain why Da'an seemed more
assured by "Mooscapes". Thanks go to my mom, as always, for her
gracious reading. I'm not sure about this one, but I decided to give
it a try. Please send any comments my way. Flames now used to warm
the bus
stop.
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Avoiding the Ghiron Outpost
By Anne Sealey <notpat@yahoo.com>
"As you can see, Da'an, Resistance activity has been stepped-up over the past several weeks. You can no longer ignore this threat. Your noble vision of humanity is clouding your judgment. Why must you insist on allowing this to happen?" Da'an was not listening. Zo'or was annoyed. "Da'an. Answer my query." "My apologies. My mind was elsewhere." "Then I suggest you regain your focus. Jonathan Doors's Resistance must be destroyed. Their continued existence in North America is appalling, Da'an. The Synod wishes results. It would be wise for you to put an end to their interference." "The Synod wishes, or you wish?" "There is no distinction." "I believe there is. Prior to your interference, Zo'or, some members of the Synod were willing to speak on behalf of both Humanity and the Taelons. Sadly, that voice is weakening." Da'an looked in the other direction, not choosing to listen to Zo'or's next words. "You have been preoccupied of late, Da'an. You have been withdrawn, unfocused, moody. All very human behaviors. Especially when they're facing strong emotions, like grief. That is not Taelon. Do you mourn, Da'an? Surely it it is not for Quo'on. Not for another of our kind's passage into the Void. Was it you human implant? I can not understand your illogical and dangerous attachment to such creatures." "It is not for you to understand." "Commander Boone is dead." "He did not have to be." His voice rattled as he spoke. Zo'or's anger matched Da'an's own. "That is beside the point, Da'an. Boone has been replaced. Major Kincaid is now your protector. I suggest you focus on the matters at hand, not those which cannot be altered." Da'an regained his composure, but lost none of his resentment. "I shall take the Synod's feelings under advisement." "It would be in your best interest to do so. Quo'on may have tolerated your fascinations. I, however, don't have to. Do not expect it." "I'll bear that in mind. Good bye, Zo'or." "I shall be waiting." Da'an sighed. With the data stream closed, Zo'or blinked from view. Da'an allowed himself to fall back slightly. He was so tired. *Such a limited being could not understand*, he thought.Of that, Da'an was sure. *** Liam noted Da'an had been quiet most of the afternoon, halfheartedly reviewing security files, and reading up on current plans as he stood watch. With a graceful wave of his hand, Da'an closed the data stream, almost unnoticed by his protector. "Liam, what do you know of orchids?" "Not much, Da'an. They're pretty, but my floral experience is limited." Da'an's voice was wistful, "They are quite beautiful. And very diverse. Perhaps like humans." "Could be." Liam was wary. Where was he heading? Da'an's impromptu lessons were moral, or philosophical. Never horticultural. "They live a varied amount of time. Some of the rarest, and the most beautiful live only a short moment. Almost unfairly." "They're just flowers, Da'an. Beautiful, yes. But I doubt they want or need our sympathy." "And the people?" "You're Taelon, Da'an. I've been taught Taelons don't mourn their dead. They embrace the Void. Kimera are the same." "For ourselves, yes. However, I have often found there are exceptions to every rule. And you?" "I suppose." Liam wanted to press further, but Lili entered, wearing a long blue dress. "Da'an. Major." She nodded. Da'an spoke, "Yes, Captain?" "We've got to get ready for the concert. We can't be late." "Of course. Please prepare the shuttle." "Already done. We can leave right away." Da'an got up and motioned for the others to follow, the orchids seemingly forgotten. *** Lili was fidgeting slightly. The night had grown long. The music was nice, but it was the last thing on her mind. At this point, she just wanted to go home. She looked to her friends. Liam seemed more interested, as usual, in watching human behaviour than the actual performance. And Da'an... Da'an sat sate sedately, politely watching the performers. But he wasn't interested. Most unusual. Da'an usually had a great appreciation of the arts. Lili's silent musings were cut off by the Master of Ceremonies. "And as we come to the final performance of the evening, I would once again like to thank our most kind supporters. May I present Da'an, North American Companion and Synod member. Without his support, this wonderful facility, the Taelon - Human Music Institute, would not exist. He is a true Companion." The man emphasized the fourth word, saying it and the last very deliberately. A loud chorus of applause echoed through the concert hall. Lili turned to her right, expecting to see Da'an towering above. He was still sitting, and staring off into the distance. Lili could feel the confused stares of those around her. She touched Da'an lightly on the arm, to no avail. She whispered, "Da'an. DA'AN." Da'an shook his head slightly then stood up. The applause lifted once again and Lili breathed a sigh of release. She caught Liam's eye and saw her expression on his face. The speaker, now uncomfortable, continued, "On behalf of everyone touched by your people's generosity in this project, thank you, Da'an." Not missing this cue, the alien sat. "As the evening draws to a close, we have selected the valedictorian of this year's class to play her most recent effort. It is a human song, no doubt, with human feeling, but she has combined Taelon musical elements. In particular, the synthesizer she uses has Taelon hardware, and allows her produce sounds of both our worlds. Her classmates maintain it shows the best of human emotions. It is our hope we can share this. May I introduce Camille Samson." Once again, the room filled with applause as a young woman with flowing brown hair and a red dress took the stage behind an instrument akin to a keyboard. She started the piece with a short introduction, filled with instruments Lili could only partially identify. Taelon or human, it was beautiful. The sound was only added when she began to sing with a voice that seemed to flow through the music. "No matter what would happen I knew you would be there You can't go and leave me Once you've made me care I cannot live without you Its so hard to be apart It's not fair for you to go now Not fair to break my heart" Lili could have sworn she saw Da'an become more distant. Convincing herself only partially that it was her emotions, not his, she managed to focus back. "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind" Lili looked to Da'an, his face still unreadable, but changed somehow The distance looked like it was replaced by sorrow. The song continued, "We always seemed so different But I know we were the same My life changed so completely After first you came There's so much you can teach me So much that I must know We cannot reach this ending yet I cannot let you go" Lili looked to Da'an. She hoped she wasn't reading his expression correctly. "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind" Lili looked back to Da'an. If he had been human, she'd be sure the words were hitting too close to home. "Though some said you betrayed me Your heart was always right And when it turned to shades of gray You were the truth's sole light I cannot bear to lose you The pain would be too great Stay with me forevermore I cannot bear to wait" Lili felt Da'an's hand cover her own. He blushed blue. She had never seen him like this. Before he could be noticed he regained his human facade. Lili caught, however, that Liam had seen. She looked down. She hadn't just imagined Da'an's hand. The chorus flew by, her attention captured elsewhere. "You were the only one for me The only one who knew For despite all of our conflicts You were always true I will try to find you I won't let you get away Because when I was with you I knew there was a way" Da'an was looking down pensively now. "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would search the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind" She tightened her grasp as she listened to the last of the song. "There no way I gonna let you leave me behind Truest friend of mine Only friend of mine Don't leave me behind." Da'an slowly removed his hand, and focused forward. Lili could barely hear the applause. She was too concerned. *** Liam stood outside Da'an's private chamber. He hit the buzzer. Without a sound, the door opened. No one greeted him. He spotted the Taelon across the room, facing a window. "Da'an?" There was no answer, but Liam could hear his mentor speaking softly. It was Eunoia. And not just Eunoia, ancient Eunoia. Eunoia that, from "his" (really Hag'els experience), had not been used in millennia. Surely before Da'an's time. "Kalana. Ayl u skar holas. Kalana. Cora j'ad ulay too daka. Kalana. Rel or an el eg ha sha. Kalana.Or rez cjea uio dera caol. Kalana. Ha rlan. Kalana had rany." Liam approached to see Da'an light a candle and blush over it. Liam recognized it and was not happy. He repeated his question, "Da'an?" The Taelon turned, "Liam. Might I ask what brings you here at such an hour?" "I wanted to know what you thought of the concert." "This world has great talent for the arts. I was pleased to see it." Liam listened to Da'an, trying to keep his eyes from wandering to the candle. "I see, Liam, that you are interested in my candle. Perhaps more so than in what I thought of the performance." Da'an's head tilted slightly. Liam hoped a smile would play across Da'an's face but none was to be seen. He had not known his companion long, but he seemed so withdrawn. From all accounts, Da'an had "smiled" in the past. He didn't anymore. "I am curious, I must admit." "Surely you Kimera heritage can tell you what this is." "A Kalana candle?" "Exactly. So you understand why I do not wish to dwell on it." "Of course. But, may I ask..." "Who is it for? One you didn't know. One I sometimes did not know." Liam was almost certain he knew. Da'an gestured to several chairs, of obvious human construction, "Shall we continue this conversation in a more comfortable area? I am curious to see what you thought of some of the music." Liam sat first, Da'an took a chair across from him. "Did you have a favourite piece?" "I was partial to the one at the end. You, Da'an?" "That piece was a most... emotional selection. It spoke of friendship, and the bonds it brings, did it not?" "Or the bonds of love, a human concept." "But, as you well know, perhaps not so alien to ones such as ourselves." "Maybe not." "I take it the person speaking in the song has lost someone close to them. A death." Liam didn't answer it could easily be someone who was left through choice, not death. But he continued with the Companion's reasoning; he wanted to see where it would lead. "I would assume so. It was very human though. Kimera, Jaridians, Taelons, we do not see the Void the same way. Perception is different for us. However, such devotion is not unknown among us, though rarely does the separation of the Void cause such great pain." "One would think so, would they not?" "I do, Da'an. I stared into the Void. I feared, but it wouldn't have stopped me. Fate, however, did." "Fate. How curious. Perhaps fate troubles me more than the Void." Liam decided to let that one lie. "Do you mourn Quo'on?" "Quo'on was Taelon. He met the Void as any of us would have wished to, bravely." "Would you have prefer I had not saved you?" "Of course not. Though there are moments when I see why a human would choose the Void over life." Liam was worried, "You wish to die?" "Of course not. No Taelon would. I must continue my work. Would you have me leave Zo'or in charge?" "Not on my life." "Then you see why it is imperative I stay. Back to the performance, what did you think of the second presentation? I found it most unusual." Liam realized he would get no where. He resigned himself to discussing the music while the candle burned into the night. **** "Augur?" Liam stood in between the doors to Augur's home, hoping to be let in. He waited, and got no answer. "Augur!" He waited and glared at the camera that was partially concealed. " Augur! Come on, this is important!" Liam heard his friend's voice over the intercom. "Coming. Coming! Can't a man get any peace in his own home?" The door opened. "I need to talk to you about Da'an." "What? He wants to know what to wear to our next ‘secret' meeting." "No. I think he's in trouble." For a reason Augur didn't quite understand, his mood dampened. "What is it?" "I think he's upset." "Why?" "No. Not upset exactly. In mourning." "Mourning?" Augur wrinkled his nose. "Taelons don't mourn." "This one does. He lit a Kalana candle." "A what?" "Its a sign of grief. They haven't been used in generations." Augur shot him an incredulous look. "Just look it up in the Taelon historical archives you claim to have downloaded." "Fine. Fine." Augur hit the button to bring up the Avatar program. Liam rolled his eyes. It was obviously Augur's latest representation of Lili. That man had some weird perversions. Lili was dressed in knee-high go go boots. Her hair, somehow, was piled into a beehive. She wore a high hemmed, low cut red dress. On one side, in a holster, was some sort of primitive looking energy weapon. Swung over her other should was a curious device shaped like a box. Apparently, this time, Lili was dressed in the costume of a television program produced in the middle of the previous century. The name escaped him, though, he could only remember watching part of an episode on late night TV once. It had aliens with funny foreheads. *If only they had known...* Liam thought. He looked at "Lili" once more. Weird. But definitely Augur. "Bring up anything from the Taelon archives on the Kalana candle." The avatar spoke, "Sensors online. Reading data. The Kalana candle is now obsolete. It was used up until the first several millennia of the Commonality, in remembrance and the mourning possess, to show the departed they still had a connection to the world of the living. It lit the Void. As Taelon culture progressed, the Kalana candle became outdated as the society adopted a belief that inevitability of death was not to be feared, but rather embraced. Associated with Kalana candle was a prayer-like chant... "Enough." "Halting transmission. Ready for your next orders, Captain." She smiled mischievously. Liam couldn't remember the original show being so laced with suggestion. Then again, maybe he could. "That's all, Yeoman." The Avatar nodded, "Beam me up, Scotty." She disappeared. Liam didn't know whether to laugh or cry. Instead, he spoke, "See, Augur? I told you something was wrong. Da'an has never been one to to stick to archaic traditions. Kalana candles are time consuming. He's not one to waste time on the unnecessary." "I think you're right." "If Da'an's mind is so bothered, he cannot focus on his work. We've got to get to Doors. If he plans anything right now, it could harm Da'an. And our chances." "We've got to get to Jonathan." The two men looked each other straight in the eye. They left. *** "For crying out loud Doors, he was lighting a Kalana candle!" "And I care why?" "Because Da'an is unstable!" "Why should I care! That's one less Taelon and one less person who knows about this hideout. And might I remind you who's fault that little escapade was?" "If Da'an is removed we lose our only chance. Da'an is becoming gradually more distant and unfocused. There is nothing Zo'or would like more right now than to see him gone. We must prevent this." Lili and Augur stood to the side, keeping quiet. Liam and Doors were tense. The older man spoke first. "If Da'an is removed it will put the Taelons on the defensive. We could get our chance. If we plan something now, Da'an can't handle it. He'll be removed, and falling so close to Quo'on's death, the Taelon hierarchy will be in chaos." "I don't agree.The risk of losing Da'an is too great. We can't afford it. Don't let your people pull any of their garbage and we might be ok." Lili piped up, "Look, Liam's right. At this point, after the loss of Boone, we *need* Da'an. And he just hasn't been himself. He seems so tired. We can't push this, Jonathan." Lili turned to Liam. "We do need Da'an. Can't you see that? I may not have been around for as long as you, but I can see what's written on the wall. If you want humanity to survive, we need Da'an on our side." "Since when have you cared about humanity?" Doors stormed out, not waiting for the answer. Lili crossed her arms and looked down. Augur wouldn't meet anyone's eyes. Liam licked his lips, turned his head slightly and sighed. "Don't worry. He won't do it you know. He's not going to try anything. Doors can be irrational, but he isn't stupid. He knows as well as us that Da'an's the only one who can help," Augur spoke for the first time. Lili and Augur just looked at each other. Liam walked away. *** "And we are here today at the third annual Family Values Conference, an event hosted by the US Government and supported by the North American Companion. Today, members of the public, scientists, religious and political figures, as well as children will try to redefine the role of the family in today's post-Companion America. Among those expected to attend today's gathering include President Thompson and Reverend Travis Murray. Also expected is..." The news anchor trailed off as Da'an came into view. "Here, ladies and gentleman, the North American Companion himself, Da'an. Da'an, what is the Synod's view on Family Values?" "As always, we believe that families are an integral part of the human condition. They will provide strength for the struggles ahead." "Pardon me, Da'an? I don't think I follow." "My apologies, ma'am. I meant, for the struggles life provides. On a personal level, of course. The Synod also believe that this is an internal matter for humans, and we shall endeavour to support whatever decisions you make." Liam breathed a sigh of relief. Da'an had certainly been acting strangely. Da'an had always seemed larger than life, even imposing. Now he seemed so small. While even the greatest of diplomats could misspeak, it was not in Da'an's nature. The reporter looked confused. "Thank you, Da'an. Enjoy your day." "I shall." Da'an walked away and Liam followed. If Da'an was like this now, before the stress of a conference, what would he be by closing time? Liam was almost afraid to contemplate it. He was Da'an's protector, but could Liam protect him from himself? *** For the second time in as many days, Liam stood outside Da'an's chamber. He was thankful that the misstep of that morning had been Da'an's last, for now. His speech was among the best Liam could remember. It was almost enough to make him think he was imagining the change. It wasn't like he had known Da'an that long. Liam chimed the door. Silently, it opened. "Liam. It is good to see you. Please come in." Liam stepped through the threshold, and noticed the candle was still burning. A recording of the finale song from the previous evening's concert played in the background. He saw the Companion click it off, almost embarrassed to be listening to it. Da'an gestured to chairs they had used the evening before. "What is it you wish to discuss?" "I don't know." "And yet you take time from your off duty hours to visit me. You have a home? Friends? Associations, do you not?" Liam nodded. "So why visit me? You are not compelled to do so." "I don't know. Just to do that. Visit. Talk. You're the closest thing I have to a parent, can't I visit?" "You know you are always welcome. I just do not wish to keep you from whatever you may have planned." "Truth be told, there's no where for me to go. Lili's working. Augur's out. Doors hates me." Liam lied. He could have rustled up Augur for a game of cards, but he was already owed an obscene amount of money. He wasn't sure about Lili. And he was almost sure Doors hated him. What it came down to was that Da'an was in need. "However, if you wish me gone, I can find something to do. I don't want to impose." "No, stay." Liam nodded and sat down. Da'an followed suit. Liam began. "So... You gave a good speech at the Conference today." "Thank you. I do believe that family is one the strong points of human society. It is an institution worth preserving." Liam looked distant. Perhaps this was a little too close to home. Why had he let his guard down? Da'an caught Liam's look, "But, during my time here, I have learned family is not purely defined through genetics. There is more." Liam almost smiled. "I'd better hope you're right." Da'an shifted slightly. He didn't wish to open that up. He spoke in his native tongue, "Tell me Liam, what do you know of Eunoia?" Liam tried, and matched it badly, "Snippets of what my father knew. I think he spoke more Kimera. Sorry." Da'an looked almost disappointed and switched to English. "Oh. I was curious. Have you adjusted to you shaqarava yet? Since last we spoke of it some time has past." "I now control it more than it controls me." "Yet, do you understand it?" "I'm not sure." "Then you do not. You must continue your journey of self discovery. It will pose a threat to yourself and others until you can properly hold its power." "I understand." Da'an shot him a skeptical look. "Have you considered what I told you of fate?" "I have. I believe the future must be changed. Those like Zo'or must not come into power." "I fear he has." "Then you must stop it Da'an." "And what of Doors?" "He's just as dangerous. We need you Da'an. You have to change the future. Ma'el did it. Now you must." "I fear it may be too late. I am too weak." "I can only assure you that this is not the case." Da'an cocked his head, and blushed blue. Liam sat in silence. Neither said a word. Finally, Liam decided to change the topic. "You've been playing the finale again?" "I am attempting to understand its meaning." "Do you?" "I believe so." Liam was willing to bet he did. Again, the room was quiet. Liam looked to the flame, flickering in the moonlight. *** The candle burned through the night, through until the next morning. It was the first thing Lili saw as she was allowed into Da'an's chamber. The soft light conflicted with the sun's early morning rays, like the moods within her. "Da'an?" "I am here." "You called." "I know." Da'an sat unmoving in his chair. Had he been human, Lili might have thought he was sulking. "Why?" "May I talk to you?" "Of course." "I do not know who else to speak to." Lili was willing to wager that hrwas not saying that just to win her confidence. Da'an used to talk to Boone. "Go ahead." Da'an stood, and moved towards her "I do not mean to be insensitive, but you have known your share of death?" Lili cringed, but held it back and nodded. "We all have." "I cannot disagree. You have lost a parent, a brother, friends?" "Too many. Too often. War does that. You move on. You have to." "Yet, it comes to the surface. Help me understand." It was a order, not a request. Lili looked puzzled. Da'an answered, "When we shared you grief threatened to overwhelm me. But it was more for yourself." "You're right. There is nothing about grief that helps anyone but ourselves. It is not for the other person, its for us. It would be more constructive to go out and do something in their name. But we don't. We feel for what we have lost. Not them." "I felt that too." The room was quiet. Lili looked to Da'an uncomfortably, "When we shared, did you feel all that? Did you know about me? About the Liberation? About Boone?" "I felt all that, yes. But the pain was so overwhelming, and your confusion, that I did not feel much more. I knew you, but not about you, if you can understand what I am saying. As for the Liberation, I had my suspicions. No Companion worker I have ever encountered had been so evasive, yet efficient..." Lili nodded, "Were you angry?" "I do not know." Lili looked nervously to the candle. Da'an fixed his gaze on her. She felt like she had to speak. "What about Quo'on?" "He was Taelon. His voice within our Synod and Commonality can never be replaced." Da'an answered without answering. They both looked to the candle. Da'an returned to business, "I am to be on the homeship today. Zo'or has instructed me to meet with him. Liam is accompanying me. Zo'or wishes the presence of yourself and Agent Sandoval as well." "I'll get the shuttle ready." Lili turned to leave, as she crossed through the door, she heard Da'an call out, "Thank you, Lili." It had nothing to do with the shuttle. *** Liam smiled slightly at Sandoval as he sat down in a rear seat of the shuttle. The older man barely acknowledge his existence. Da'an sat motionless in front of them, seemingly oblivious to the entire exchange. Lili strapped herself in and began to prepare the shuttle for flight. "Da'an, are we ready?" Lili received no answer. She glanced over her shoulder. Da'an still did not answer. Concern flickered across Sandoval's features. Liam tapped him gently on the arm. Da'an finally spoke, "Proceed, Captain." Lili started the shuttle, and everyone sat in silence. Sandoval, of all people, broke the ice, "Da'an, do you know why Zo'or has summoned us?" "I am unsure. A meeting of the Synod I would presume. Why are you not with him?" "Captain Marquette wished to return from the mother ship. I decided to join her, as Zo'or had no need of us." Da'an nodded. Liam just watched. The trip was short. No one said a word. Da'an usually would discuss things, if only the business of the day. He was silent. No one wished to interrupt him. *** "As we all can see, we must step up our efforts if we plan to offer an adequate defense against the Jaridians. Quo'on was not decisive enough in this matter. In my role as Synod leader, I place the protection of the Taelon people as my highest priority." There were general murmurs of agreement. Zo'or, wearing his human facade, put on an air of smug superiority, "So, Da'an. Have you come to your senses? Surely you must realize that at this point you are defeated. Your ‘vision' cannot be realized. The Synod demands results." Da'an did not answer. The murmurs stopped. One voice spoke. It was Ki'er, the senior member of the engineering caste. "The Synod demands results which will benefit our people in not only the short, but the long term. We must explore all the options. I believe Da'an has begun this." Da'an steadied himself. "Thank you, Ki'er. I believe the long term of our species involves the humans." "We must keep things in perspective, Da'an. You may be well meaning, but indecisive action such as you propose lead to the loss of our last Synod leader. We must step up our efforts. Unless there is any further business, I wish to end this meeting." There were no objections. Within moments, the other Taelons had dispersed, leaving only Zo'or and Da'an. "Zo'or. I must protest this course of action. We can not make an informed decision if we do not have the information." "I disagree Da'an. Your radical ideas will only harm the cohesion of the Synod. Now we must be of one mind and one voice." "I disagree." "Da'an, leave. If you refuse to help our efforts, do not fight them." Zo'or turned away. Da'an was too tired to disagree. *** Liam looked at Da'an. He quickly glanced down to his global. "So, the dedication will be quick. The SI veterans foundation wishes to donate this statue to the Taelons as a thank you for world peace." Da'an seemed almost annoyed. "I understand the purpose of this gathering." "Then why do you seem so upset?" "I fear we may bring more destruction than we have averted." Liam wanted to ask, but Da'an took his place on the stage and didn't look back. Liam followed to his, but the ceremony began before he could speak. The speaker had droned on too long in Liam's opinion. While still worried, he was thankful when Da'an approached the podium. "My friends, on behalf of the Synod, I would like to thank you for this kind gesture. It is my belief that peace and co-operation are the best course of action. Understand is to be valued over violence, the peacemakers more rewarded than those who fire first. Today there is peace. We should enjoy it, treasure it. We must honour those who have fallen. They are not the first nor the last. Despite outward peace, wars are being fought today. Their causalities must not be in vain. " Da'an was visibly upset. Well spoken though it was, he speech was obviously confusing his audience. Liam touched him slightly on the arm. He did not steady, but rather continued, "Until all see that peace is the way to go, that co-operation and a joining of forces are the only thing for us,we are all in grave danger. We shall all loose, not only coming battles, but those people close to us." Liam was more worried, he spoke lightly "Da'an. You can't risk this. Calm down." Da'an paused for a moment. Not a word was spoken. "Your world has taken the first steps towards a lasting peace. As beings, Human and Taelon alike, we must never loose sight of co- operation and peace. Those we have lost must not have died in vain. However, such meaning cannot be found through glorifying the battlefield. Only through ensuring it never happens again. Or, if it must happen, it is minimal. I commend you for recognizing us. You shall all be saviors. Thank you." The audience applauded, but cautiously. Da'an sat. The speaker closed. The audience wondered. Liam worried. If Da'an could not see what was happening, Liam could do nothing, and everyone would suffer. *** Da'an sat in his chair, bracing himself. He knew what was to come. But he was too tired, too restless to care. "Da'an. You jeopardize the very people you claim to so nobly wish to save with these outbursts. Should this continue, you will have to be removed. At this time we cannot tolerate such rash, illogical behavior in the Synod. Your message is destructive." "Destructive to our common goal, or your petty beliefs?" "Our goal ceased to be common when you fell in love with these insignificant earthlings. Tell me, Da'an, do you attempt friendships with skrills as well?" "I do not believe you understand." "Perhaps you retained more of the atavus than you care to let on. Your behavior has been decidedly un-Taelon. Emotional. Human." "And you are not giving into your emotions now?" "I am doing what is right!" "As am I." "You are being deliberately antagonistic. I offered to let you join forces with me; to allow you a chance to maintain your dignity. You refused. You are making a mockery of yourself, Da'an. There was a time when I respected you. That time has passed. I cannot respect one who has become a pale shadow of the person they once were. Perhaps, had you agents fulfilled their duty when you were the atavus, we would not be in this regrettable position." "You confuse weakness with thought. I am not jumping blindly to action and speech as some in our leadership." "Really? Your performance this afternoon would suggest otherwise." "I was honest." "Your cryptic remarks are of no help to the people of this planet. I suggest you curb them, or I will." Da'an didn't acknowledge him. Zo'or closed the data stream, leaving Da'an to think. *** Liam walked into the darkened audience chamber. He saw Da'an sitting, unmoving, in his chair. "Da'an?" "Liam." "Are you all right?" "Of course." "I was concerned after your speech that that might not have been the case." "You have no need for concern." "Don't I?" "Explain your reasoning." "I have not known you long." "I can't disagree." "But I can see it in Lili's eyes. And Sandoval's. Even yours. This isn't you." "How so?" "You have been so quiet, withdrawn. Its not who you are." "I fear it is now." "Why?" Da'an looked away. "Was it the Atavus? Quo'on?" Liam paused a beat, "Boone?" Da'an's reply was a barely audible whisper, "He had no right." "Pardon?" "Nothing. Do not concern yourself. With my schedule of the last few days, I believe I have overexerted myself. Some time spent resting should do me well. You may leave now." "Is there anything you require?" "Only solitude." "You're certain?" The concern dripped from Liam's tone "Most certain. You are dismissed, Major Kincaid." Liam knew when he was no longer welcome. Da'an was never that formal in private. Liam nodded politely, turned on his heel, and left. He looked over his shoulder. What was he to do? *** Liam entered the Flat Planet Cafe and spotted Lili and Augur at a table near the back. Augur was leaned in far, elbows resting on the table. Lili was barely containing laughter, leaned back against her chair, arms crossed against her chest, her eyes rolling. Liam made his way over to them. He pulled a chair up to the table and sat with them, "I interrupting anything?" Augur laughed, "I am just trying to explain to the good Captain here that fantasies are not harmful. And, by acting on one's fantasy in the privacy of their own home no harm can be done..." Liam answered absently, "Careful, Augur. She's a Marine." "No, Liam. You have to understand. I'm right, she's... Liam. What's wrong?" "Nothing. Everything. Something. I don't know." Lili cocked an eyebrow "Would you care to elaborate?" "Its Da'an. He's worse." Lili took a deep breath. "Thanks for telling me what I didn't want to hear." "Have you spoken with him?" Lili shook her head, "Sandoval and Zo'or keep me running around. I last saw him in the shuttle." "Can you talk to him? He blew me right off." "I don't know what to say. Besides, if he blows you off, what do you think he'll do to me? I don't think he's quite forgiven me for being Resistance yet. The hard part is, I don't know if I can forgive myself." Augur looked left out. "Why's he acting like this? The way the new speaker of the Synod talks Taelons are above everything." Lili's face showed more concern, "This one's not." "Does he still have his candle?" Liam shrugged. Lili answered, "He did the other morning." Liam grimaced. He looked to Lili, "You're the one who shared with him. You've known him longer than us. Do you know if he ever spoke to anyone? Another Taelon?" Lili shook her head, "The closest thing Da'an had to a confidante was Boone. Now he has you." "This is not good. Did you manage to pull anything out of the Taelon archives..." "Nada. Its like they don't mourn. Not that I believe a word of it. All I could find was the chant that with the Candle. It goes..." Liam finished, "Let my remembrance light your way. Now that you're so far Let my remembrance light your way. Gone from sight but not from heart Let my remembrance light your way. Through the bonds that we have forged Let my remembrance light your way. The Void cannot keep us apart Let my remembrance light your way. I will remember. You light my way." The look from his seat mates was a question. "Ha'gel spoke Taelon." Augur looked, "This is getting more encouraging by the minute." Lili's Global beeped. "Marquette here." "Captain? Lili. This is Da'an." "Da'an! Are you all right?" "Of course. I need you in my office." "Shall I inform Liam?" "No. Please come immediately." "I'm on my way." "Thank you." Lili closed the global and looked with trepidation to Liam. "Go. Do what he asks. I'll keep my line open." Lili nodded and left. Her friends exchanged worried glances. *** The room was dark, and Lili could barely make out Da'an's form. He stood facing the window. "Captain. Thank you." "I haven't done anything." "You came." "You asked." For the first time, Marquette noticed the music playing. It was the song. "Da'an? What's that playing?" No answer. "Da'an?" "How do you deal with the pain, Captain?" "You learn." "I cannot. Who am I now?" Lili approached him, "What do you mean? You're Da'an. You're a Taelon. You're my friend." "No. I am broken. I am tired. I'm not Taelon. I'm a killer. I am disgraced. Nor am I anyone's friend." "Da'an. That's not true. You're my friend. You're the Liberation's only friend. You're Liam's.You were Boone's. "Was I?" "Da'an, don't do this to yourself." "Its so dark, Captain." "I can turn on the lights." Da'an shook his head. She stood next to him, and put her hand on his arm. "Look, I may not work with you anymore Da'an, but I'd like to think we were more than that. You know my loyalty lies with you. Let me help." "You cannot help me." "Is this about Boone? Wil?" Da'an merely cocked his head. "Da'an. Its not your fault. If its anyone's, its mine. Had I not been so stupid, I wouldn't have lead Ha'gel and Beckette and Boone there. Don't blame yourself. You saved Boone more times than once. Don't do this." "I never said this was about Boone." "Did you say it wasn't? I don't know about Taelons, but when humans are sad, we rely on each other. I'm here, Da'an. Don't do this. If we loose you, we loose our bridge." "A bridge that crumbles cannot help anyone." "Let me help you." Lili took Da'an's hand, and placed her palm against his. He pulled back. "Perhaps I need to return to my roots. Can you take me to the museum? To see the artifacts connected to Ma'el? He is an inspiration to me, and I need to center myself." "All right. I'll call the museum and let them know we're coming." "No. We shall speak to the night guard. I wish this to be a quiet visit." "Well then. If we need to do this, we'll do it." "You have my gratitude. Please prepare the shuttle. I shall join you shortly." "Of course." Lili left the room, the last thing she heard were the gentle strains of the song playing through the darkness "I would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time ‘Cause there's no way I'm gonna let you Leave me here behind." *** Lili reached the shuttle in time to call Liam. He answered, "Liam Kincaid." "Its Lili. Actually, its Da'an. We're on our way to the museum. Something's not right. Can you meet me there?" "The museum. What would he want there?" "He says he wants to get back with to his roots. He keeps the playing song. Its like he's planning something." "What part of the song?" "The chorus. About time and space." Something played across Liam's face. "Oh my God. Lili, you gotta stall him. I'll see you there." Lili closed the Global as Da'an rounded the corner. She tried to smile, "Let's go." *** Lili was amazed with the ease Da'an managed to get past the guard with. She doubted he'd ever seen a Taelon in person before. She followed behind Da'an, not speaking. He paused at the Mosaic they had uncovered in Ireland. He touched Ma'el's face, and blushed blue. He muttered something in Taelon. She did not understand. He moved with purpose, passing display upon display. He paused in front of the portal. The song played in her mind, "I would scour the the stars for you Bend the laws of time." Bend the laws of time. The portal. Liam. Oh God. What was Da'an going to do? "Da'an?" He looked into the portal. "Da'an? Listen. Don't do this. Its not the answer." Da'an ignored her, lost in thought. She heard footfalls behind her. It had to be Liam. She ran towards him. "Liam! Liam! Its Da'an. He's trying to access the portal. He's not listening to me. Please, Liam." He merely nodded and ran toward the companion. He stopped several feet behind Da'an. Liam watched Da'an stare into the portal. He activated it. Da'an began to step through. Liam called out, "Da'an! No! Don't." The Taelon stopped, and looked back, "I must." "No. Don't, its wrong. What will it accomplish?" "I can save him. Myself. All of us." "Da'an, you said yourself that not even the future can always be changed. The past can't. Boone is dead, let him lie." "No!" Liam moved slowly towards the glowing portal. "I'm coming closer Da'an. Let me help you." "You cannot. Fate has been stopped. I must set it right." "No. No, Da'an. You cannot. The ghosts of the past cannot be disturbed. It hurts. I know it does. But you've gotta let it go. No matter what he did, that Taelon had to go to the Ghiron outpost. It can't be avoided." "I must try. He taught me that. You don't know what this is. I've got to continue." "No. Da'an. This isn't you. You would not break this law. The loss is too great." "But... I miss him. He has the strength to survive the conflict ahead. He should not have died. And now, Zo'or is in charge. We are beaten." Da'an sank to his knees. Liam rushed forward. "No. You will stop him. Its ok Da'an. People are lost. People are killed. My father died with Boone. But I don't blame him. You have to let it go." "But how do I continue?" "You have to." Liam decided to play another card. " Why the concern? He was only your implant." "He was more. He was a friend. He was..." "Did you love him?" "I don't know. But life now seems.... less." Da'an's calm words seemed to balance his nearly hysterical manner. "Boone loved his wife. But he kept going. He had to. So do you." "That too was my fault. I betrayed him." "He betrayed you Da'an. He lied, he was Liberation." "He was who he had to be. I cannot forgive him, for he did nothing wrong. He searched for the truth. He did was was right. I wish he could forgive me." "Da'an. Going back will not help. You will put him in more danger. If Zo'or wants him dead, he will die. This way was painless, and trying to help someone. It will hurt you and it will hurt him." "No. I must." Da'an began to reach for the portal. "Da'an. Don't. I need you. Lili..." Liam cocked his head in her direction, "Needs you. You are the only hope for all of us. You told me that Boone said you were a bridge. We need that now. The river widens between us and you are the only one who sees reason." "Liam. You don't understand." "No. You don't. Boone wouldn't want you to waste both your lives. You told me that once, when you were dying, he wouldn't let you. That he pulled you back. He wouldn't let you waste this. Neither will I. Don't do this, for his sake." "You didn't know him." "I don't pretend to. But you have told me so much. And Lili and Augur have told me so much. And Boone wouldn't want you to do this. I don't want you to." Da'an stared through the portal. Liam looked at him. "You know what Da'an? I won't let you." Liam stood up, and felt his shaqarava begin to glow. He waved it in front of the portal. Both stopped glowing. Da'an sat with his head in his lap. Lili looked down. Liam started breathing again. *** The sun was brighter as Da'an answered Zo'or's transmission. "Da'an, you seem much improved." "A lot can change." "Have you reconsidered my offer?" "Of course not. I must see my idea through. I truly believe it is the only way both species can prosper." "I had hoped with your improvement came greater mental clarity. Perhaps I was too optimistic." "Perhaps so. However, of what use would I be if I did not fight for what I believed in?" "Explain." "If I do not do what I feel is right, even when it appears incorrect, I can help no one." "A very human philosophy from a being who's race has one mind." "Or would like to believe so." "Da'an, I do not understand you." "Perhaps you never will. I shall bring my newfound understanding to the next Synod meeting." "Then it shall be for them to decide." "It will be wise for you to remember, Zo'or." Da'an closed the data stream, secure that he was ready for the next time. *** It was late, and the room was darkened. Da'an stood once more above the candle "Kalana. Ayl u skar holas. Kalana. Cora j'ad ulay too daka Kalana. Rel or an el eg ha sha Kalana. Or rez cjea uio dera caol Kalana. Ha rlan. Kalana had rany" Perhaps it was illogical, archaic, overtly emotional. But it was necessary. Zo'or would call it human How fitting. Boone was human. And Da'an was better for it. It was imperfect. Incorrect. But at least, in a most human fashion, they had tried. And for Boone, for himself, for everyone, Da'an would not let this bridge crumble. Refreshed, enlightened, and ready, Da'an sat in his chair, contemplating the candle. Music played softly in the background, echoing his recent thoughts. "No matter what would happen I knew you would be there You can't go and leave me Once you've made me care I cannot live with out you Its so hard to be apart It's not fair for you to leave me Not fair to break my heart" "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind" "We always seemed so different But I know we were the same My life changed so completely After first you came There's so much you can teach me So much that I must know We cannot reach this ending yet I can not let you go" "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind "Though it looked like you betrayed me Your heart was always right And when it turned to shades of gray You were the truth's sole light I cannot bear to lose you This loss would be too great Stay with me forever more I cannot bear to wait "Why did you have to leave me? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would scour the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind "You were the only one for me The only one who knew For despite all of our conflicts You were always true I will try to find you I won't let you get away Because when I was with you I knew there was a way Why did you have to leave me ? You were my truest friend So don't you try to tell me We have reached the end ‘Cause I would would search the stars for you Bend the laws of time There's no way I'm gonna let you leave me here behind"
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Copyright 1998 Anne Sealey