Deerinea worked beneath the immobilised Schinicin tank, then after a few anxious moments, she found and severed the controls to the destruct controls. Within moments, the other operatives had neutralised any threat from the other tanks, and rejoined Deerinea and Glider.
    "Great work people…" Deerinea congratulated them. "I didn’t expect such a windfall."
    "Deerinea – how on Meldaron are – "
    "These tanks are not that dissimilar from our own Glider. Indeed, they will be a worthy addition to our own heavily depleted forces. Now, someone go find Whitetail, as I need to talk with him." Deerinea spoke.
Quickly, a soldier left and found two temple acolytes – then asked them to find Whitetail. Deerinea paced the courtyard, watching as the temple priests and guards returned to cleansing the courtyard of the corpses and debris that littered it.
    "I do not believe – " Glider began. "That we survived that battle…."

    Deerinea sighed softly, then ran her paws over her head and down her neck.
    "Neither do I…. It seemed easy – far – too easy. I know what the Schinicin are after…and I do not see why they would only send in a minimal force to take it."
    "Minimal?" Glider moaned. "You call that minimal?"
    Deerinea wilted him with a look.  "Yes Glider – considering that the Star-Crusher’s carry – on average – over twenty thousand troopers, seventeen thousand heavy assault vehicles, nine and a half thousand support personnel and other personnel…."
Glider’s face paled.
    "So – you could say that I am quite surprised…." Deerinea spoke. "Come on, let’s get out of here…."
Deerinea led Glider back through the temple, and in to the former Bishops reception chamber. Here, Whitetail paced the chamber, cursing softly.
    "Whitetail – " Deerinea began.
    "This doesn’t bode well, my beloved mate." Whitetail spoke, as he paced agitatedly.
Glider sat down then cleared his throat. Whitetail paused, then looked at the hyooman.
    "Whitetail, Deerinea has been educating me on Schinicin tactics…." Glider began.
    "Now you come to realise, the implications we’re up against here." Whitetail growled. "Those Schinicin will be back…it’s just a matter of time."
    "What can we do about it? Temple guard contingents are severely depleted, our own weaponry is hideously inadequate…and we seem to be prisoners here."

    "I know – " Whitetail spoke. "Our Tech’s are trying to restore flight capacity to the shuttle, but without the right equipment and supplies – it’s easier said than done. Apparently, there was more damage to the shuttle than what we realised."
    "So – " Glider asked. "What do we do?"
    "I’ve spoken with Millar – and she has told me, that under no circumstances, can or will she intervene on our behalf, in this war. Millar will only protect her temple, as it is her home…. Nothing more." Whitetail growled.
    "Now what? We can not hide here forever…." Glider sighed.
    "I know that – and it is this problem, that I am experiencing much grief over. If I leave, then they will not have my powers to draw on in defence…but if I stay, then you all will likewise – not have my talents to use in the war, against the Schinicin…."
    "Whitetail – you must do what you know is right." Deerinea consoled him. "Deep in your heart, you know the answer to this problem."
    "If I leave – then there is a high chance…that everyone in this temple complex will die, at the hands of the Schinicin, when they return…."
    "That is not up to you to foresee. None of us can foresee the future…." Glider told Whitetail. "Without your skills – and abilities, the Meldaron resistance will be hampered in their attacks against the Schinicin. Does the fate of the entire Meldaron race, not outweigh the cost of a few guards and soldiers? Think logically my friend – for the fate of Meldaron lies in the resistance movement…."
    "Now you see the problem." Whitetail moaned. "I was born here – raised here – and I can not just turn my back on it all, and walk away."
    "You alone, must make this decision – we can not make it for you." Deerinea told him.

    To their surprise, Silverfox entered the chambers, her eyes red from crying.
    "Whitetail – " Silverfox whispered her voice hoarse.
    "What is it my friend?" Whitetail asked her.
    "I have made a decision…. Please, do all that you can – to bring Mack back to us."
Whitetail stared incredulously at her.
    "I feel – that his life was taken from him, so suddenly. Is it better not to meet your death in battle, on your feet…than it is, to die in such an honourless way?"
    "Silver – " Glider spoke.
    "No Glider…this was my choice. I feel strongly, that Mack’s life was taken wrongly from him, and if I have the chance to counteract that decision, then it is I who shall live with the repercussions of my decisions."
    "Silverfox – are you really sure that you want to do this?" Whitetail asked. "It is a very dangerous…ritual."
    Silverfox sniffled and nodded. "I do not care what it takes. Mack was my friend – all my life, and I owe him this much…."

    Whitetail sighed, his ears drooping sadly.
    "Silverfox, I will not tell you again. This ritual – is very dangerous. I will need a part of your own life essence, to bring your friend back. If I get a single part of the ritual wrong – then – both – of you will have your spirits sundered…and cast in to the netherworld. I only tell you this – so you know the very real dangers in this ritual." Whitetail spoke softly.
    "I acknowledge the risks…and accept them. I have faith in you, and if I was in the same position, then I – would do the same for any of you…."
Glider began crying softly, and Deerinea pulled him close to her, then rocked him gently, resting his head against her shoulder, as she patted him consolingly.
    "Then come with me – " Whitetail spoke. "We shall make preparations for the ceremony…."

    Obediently, Silverfox bowed her head and followed Whitetail from the chambers. Glider wept bitterly, and Deerinea continued rocking him, whispering soothingly to the sobbing hyooman.
    "Why?" Glider wept. "Why are we forced in to this cruelty and injustice?"
    "I have faith in Whitetail’s new-found powers…as I do in your own, my young friend." Deerinea consoled him.
    "Why was I given this power of the lightning? How can I be responsible for such a precious gift? Why also, must Silverfox give a part of her very spirit, to restore our beloved friend?" Glider mumbled.
    "As for the lightning powers – I do not doubt that Millar knew exactly what she was doing. Millar would never have granted you this power – if she did not think that you could learn to control it…and use it for good. As for Silverfox, the young Vixen must sacrifice a part of herself – to bring the Tashan back…as it is an appeasement to the demons and worse, than infest the netherworld. They will demand a sacrifice – in exchange for releasing the soul of your beloved friend. Whitetail, using this ancient ritual, will in effect, fool the demons in to thinking that they actually do now possess Silverfox’s spirit. Now deceived, they will permit Mack’s spirit to return – but if they detect that they have been misled…then both Silverfox and Mack, shall have their spirits sundered and cast forever in to the deepest pits of the netherworld…. Even Whitetail, who will be the channel between the two worlds – will face deadly risks. Should he mispronounce a ritual or do something wrong – then all of them will perish…if we’re lucky…."
    "Lucky? How can you say that?" Glider wailed.
    "Trust me – " Deerinea sighed. "If we are not lucky then a rift will form between this world and the netherworld…and the demon-spawn will be loosed on to this world. No-one will be safe from them, and all will surely perish…."

    In his private chambers, the Grand Admiral restored his calm and tranquillity, before he knelt on the holo-transmission pad. After a few moments, the holographic image of the Schinicin Emperor appeared, then it’s chilling voice struck icicles of fear deep in to the heart of the Grand Admiral.
    "Explain yourself Sith Hirr Draconis – " Growled the Emperor.
    "Sire – the attack on the temple – I’ve never seen anything like it in my life! Their Priest literally called forth the living dead…and our troopers and armoured divisions could not stop them! We were unprepared and our forces were hideously outnumbered…. Sire, it was literally a slaughter, as many of our forces were torn limb from limb…by these undead warriors."
    There was a soft reptilian like hiss of extreme exasperation.  "You disappoint me Grand Admiral…." Spoke the Emperor.
    "Sire – how can we kill – the undead?" Moaned the Grand Admiral.
    "I told you Grand Admiral – for I do not care what it takes, but I will not tolerate failure. Use anything and anyone you have to…get that book. Should you fail – then I personally, will take great personal pleasure – in tearing your heart out…and banishing you to the deepest pits of Ra’Charnath…."
A moan of reptilian terror escaped the Grand Admiral.
    "Yes Sith Hirr Draconis – you know the legends of the Pits of Ra’Charnath. Even without a heart – shall you live. Here, in these dim – evil depths, shall you discover new and even more hideous tortures…. Every day, the torture will begin at dawn. You will suffer unimaginable pain all day, screaming for mercy – then with the setting of the sun, shall you die, only to be revived…. Come dawn, the next day, shall you live again – and this time, the torture that shall infest you – will be worse."
    "Sire – have mercy…." Pleaded the Grand Admiral.

    "Thus, shall it continue, until I am satisfied, that you have learned your lesson…and I destroy your heart…condemning you to an eternity – of emptiness, darkness and loneliness. Do not fail me…again…Grand Admiral." Come the evil hiss of the Emperor. "If I must, then I personally will come to Meldaron…. If I do come, then I shall be most displeased, my servant. You had best fetch me the book of Zra’Chak – and send it to me, or else, you will not live to see the week out…. This is your very last warning Grand Admiral. I have been lenient on you in the past, because of your exemplary and outstanding campaign successes, in the past. However – even my incredible patience – has its limits…and you are rapidly reaching that point in time. Use what-ever you must to retrieve that tome Grand Admiral – or else, you will not like the consequences of failing me…."
    "My lord – without reinforcements to enforce your will on Meldaron…."
    "I have considered your requests – Grand Admiral…and I have reached a decision. I am declining your request for additional forces. Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak, and I assure you – you will have the full might of the Schinicin Empire, at your command. Your forces will have to suffice Sith Hirr Draconis, until such a time, as I have that book in my hands… and then, shall you receive your reinforcements – and more besides. Until then – you are on your own…."

    With that, the holo-link was severed, leaving the Grand Admiral shaking beneath his reptilian skin. Indeed, if the Emperor came to Meldaron – the Grand Admiral was certain – that he would kill himself first – before the Emperor could carry out his very real threat. Of all the Schinicin legends and myths, the fabled afterlife was one all Schinicin held dear. If the Emperor did carry out his dire warning, then the Grand Admiral – would never rest…. He would truly know such agony, which would be ceaseless – without remorse or relent. It was – truly – the worst afterlife any Schinicin could ever experience. What was worse, was Sith Hirr Draconis knew full well – that the Emperor was quite capable of handing down this sentence.
    "Commander – " Sith Hirr Draconis grated.
    "Sire?"
    "Prepare a full invasion force to take the Temple…."
    "Sire? Are you – " Come the Commanders startled response.
    "I do not care for excuses Commander – just carry out my orders. I want as many Schinicin armoured divisions and infantry as you can manage. I do not care if you have to strip most of the garrisons on Meldaron to do it – but I want that temple taken…."
    "Aye sire – as you command. It will – take a few days to organise such a strike…."
    "You have two days Commander. I suggest that you get too it…immediately. This is a top priority Commander."
    "Yes sire – at once."

    Back in the main temple cathedral, Whitetail was preparing the necessary ritual equipment, whilst Silverfox was being bathed, brushed and purified, by some of the temple priests. Whitetail’s ears lay tight against his neck, as he turned another page in the ancient book, and read diligently, before he issued some orders to some priests, then lay out some more of the necessary items, that he would need for the ritual – that he prayed – would succeed.  At last, they were ready, and Whitetail sighed softly, then knelt in prayer before the altar. His words were truthful, meaningful and from his heart – as he pleaded with Millar to grant him the ability, to carry out this delicate – and extremely lengthy ritual. Silverfox was lead out, dressed in a long flowing white robe, her paws hidden in the sleeves, her head hooded. Two temple priests accompanied her, their soft prayers echoing eerily from the cavernous cathedral walls. They lead Silverfox to the small bier, upon which she lay. Glider and Deerinea stood well back, fearing that their mere presence would upset the delicate powers that Whitetail was to bear in this ritual. Mack’s corpse, likewise dressed, cleansed and purified, lay on a bier beside Silverfox.
    "Silverfox Relah Star – " Whitetail chanted. "Are you ready to commence the ritual of T’Neth?"
    "I am." Come Silverfox’s faint reply.

    A young priest, garbed in his ceremonial robes, slowly walked around the altar and the two biers, casting a circle of powdered silver, holy water and salt. A dozen lesser priests formed a circle around this magical warding, then they joined hands. Softly, they began chanting, and as the startled Glider watched, the magical circle burst in to bright silver flames.
    "What – " Glider whispered.
Deerinea glared at him then clamped her paw tightly over his mouth.
    "Silence!" Deerinea breathed in his ear. "Do not make a sound!"
Glider swallowed, then nodded his head. Deerinea glared at him again, then shuddered and released him. They took a seat on the narrow pews, then watched the ritual unfold….

    Whitetail came closer, his voice rising and falling in harmony with the other priests, as he recited the powerful incantations. Carefully, he ran his fingertips down Silverfox’s body – from the tip of her head to her toes. He repeated this thrice, and then lay his palm against Silverfox’s chest.  Deerinea, knowing what was about to happen, slapped her paw over Glider’s mouth again, silencing any risks of him crying out in alarm. Silverfox shrieked in mortal agony – then mercifully – fainted. Whitetail’s voice began rising, as the silver flames slowly turned in to a smoky-grey colour and edged towards black. Within several heartbeats – the ebony flames drew all light and warmth in to their dark embrace. Glider glanced at the torches on the temple walls, and he was shocked to actually see them die down. A cold wind ruffled the torch flames, and chilled those present, as Whitetail’s chant changed pitch and intensity, echoed by the assisting priests.  Deerinea intensified her hold on Glider, knowing that the ritual was really beginning now – and it was reaching a very deadly stage. One false word – or gesture – and all of them would die…as the demons from the Netherworld, were being called by Whitetail, and Silverfox’s spirit was dangled before them teasingly. Deerinea watched – prayed – that Whitetail had the strength – and the ability – to complete this most deadly of rituals. There was a good reason for why it had not been done in centuries….

    No one had successfully carried it through to completion….

    Indeed, the Meldaron high priest Y’Nagioth had tried – and his spirit had been torn from him and banished in to the netherworld – all because of a simple and tragic mis-pronunciation of a word….

    For the next seven hours, Whitetail continued with the dangerous ritual, sweat matting his pelt and the very real fear evident in his eyes. Still – he refused to give in, and finally, late that night, there was a horrendous scream from beneath the ground…and Whitetail shrieked a command, then shattered the spell powers. Deafening peals of thunder ripped overhead and the entire temple rocked – as Whitetail had performed the impossible – and restored Mack’s spirit to his body. He collapsed to his knees, weakened beyond his physical endurance. Deerinea ran to him, then knelt and held the shaking young Stag tightly, tears of joy running down her muzzle.
    "I…." Whitetail gasped.
    "You did it!" Deerinea wept. "Millar be blessed – I know not how – but you’ve done it!"
Silverfox and Mack lay unconscious – their own bodies badly weakened from the experience. Gently, some of the priests brought forth stretchers and carried the two unconscious Meldaron’s to a warm chamber, where they would rest and recover from their ordeal.  Whitetail helped her mate to his feet, then led him to his quarters. Here, she bathed him and then wrapped the shaking Pearldinean in warm blankets.
    "I – never want to do that again." Whitetail chattered.
    "I can not believe you actually managed to do it." Deerinea whispered, as she prepared a warm drink for Whitetail. "It’s exceptionally dangerous."
    "The power – the deceiving peace and calmness of the other side…." Whitetail whispered. "It almost ensnared me."
    "Never trust the Netherworld my beloved – as we both know that this is all – that the Netherworld is. It is deceiving, in which you are lured…and enslaved for eternity. Here, your immortal spirit would be tortured for eternity…at the hands of the fallen."
    "I did not think – I could do it…." Whitetail shuddered. "It would have been so easy, just to give up – and sink in to that peaceful darkness…."
    "You did do it – and we are all grateful for what you’ve done for us…." Deerinea told him. "Silverfox and Mack will be grateful, I have no doubts about that. Now, try to rest – and recover. You’ve had a terrible time of it, and we’re safe for the moment…."
    "Those Schinicin – "
    "We’re safe. Millar has strengthened the mystic shielding over her temple, but if they launch another ground attack against us – then we’re all in trouble. Get some rest, and I will tend to you…and try to get the shuttle repair crews working a little quicker. We need to get out of here – and to our base in the Unknown Hills."

    Whitetail took the steaming mug in both paws, then sipped it carefully.
    "Go on – " Whitetail spoke. "I will be alright…."
Deerinea looked sceptically at him, but did as he said and left the chamber. Whitetail watched her go, then sighed softly.  Deerinea went outside, then gazed up at the coruscating emerald shield that protected the temple buildings. Quickly, she made her way to where the shuttle lay parked; the Tech’s swarming over and under it.
    "Lt. Deerinea – " Spoke their leading Tech.
    "How goes the repairs?" Deerinea asked.
    "Slowly – " He sighed, then wiped his muzzle with an old cloth. "Without proper knowledge of some of the Schinicin circuitry – it’s fairly difficult. However, we estimate that to effect proper repairs – we would need to dry-dock at a repair facility…and spend about seventy-two hours, repairing the worst of the damage."
    Deerinea sighed.  "That’s not what I wanted to hear – okay, let’s ignore the worst of the damaged systems, and just try to get this puppy flight-worthy again. What are the chances of getting her partway flight capable?"

    Quickly, the Tech moaned. "Well – there is a totally destroyed drive system on number three drive…but the other two are operating at approximately sixty percent capability."
    "Atmospheric capability?" Deerinea enquired, as she inspected some of the repair work.
    "We wish. Outer hull has been compromised in many places, and there is no chance of repairing that damage – without a fully working repair facility. She will fly, but only at a very low altitude."
    "Any luck in neutralising the Schinicin transponder transmitting system?"
    "We were lucky in that regard – as we’ve managed to decipher some of the Schinicin coding and such – and we’ve taken down the transponder. So – "
    "So – Schinicin ground tracking stations won’t detect us?"
After a minute, the Tech nodded.
    "Great work. Okay, so we’ve got flight capability, but severely hampered – "
    "This crate will fly – but only just. Manoeuvring thrusters are mostly gone, and main power conduits are extensively damaged. I just pray, that you won’t need to out-run anything in a hurry…."
    "We’ve got about a hundred mile flight to make…. Will it hold out that long?"
He paused, then consulted with some of his other flight technicians.  "Only just. Main power is falling concurrently, for reasons we’re not quite sure. If you’re going to get moving – I’d make it real quick."
    "Do what you can – and I’ll let Whitetail know, that it’s now or never."
With a quick nod, the technician walked back to the shuttle, then they resumed cursing and fighting with the alien vessel, trying to bypass it’s neuro-net processors and on-board diagnostic systems….

    Deerinea walked to the shattered main gates, then looked out over the rolling hills. Deerinea trembled, knowing that the Schinicin forces were quite possibly mobilising, building their garrisons and armouries, and gathering together their forces, for another attack on the temple grounds. Deerinea sighed again, then returned in to the temple, and walked through the quiet hallways to where she had left Whitetail. Here, she told him everything that the Tech’s had told her…and he sighed wearily.
    "So – we’re running out of time?" Whitetail croaked.
    "I’m afraid so. Main power to the shuttle is falling rapidly. If we do not get out of here within a few hours, then we’re not going to get out."
    Whitetail cursed fluently, then growled. "Alright – four hours until we move out. Let everyone know…."
Deerinea nodded and left the chambers. Quietly, her hooves clicking on the stone floor, she approached Glider’s chambers. Here, she paused then knocked softly.
    "Come – " Glider spoke.
Deerinea opened the door, then poked her nose in.
    "It’s alright Deerinea…." Glider smiled. "What’s wrong?"
    "We’re moving out in four hours. Our shuttle transport is experiencing difficulties and is losing it’s power. We’ve got to get out of here – and escape to the Meldaron base."

    Glider was silent, then at last, he spoke.
    "What of Mack and Silverfox? Will they be able to move?"
    Deerinea sighed.   "Silverfox will recover quickly – but Mack – will remain in his unconscious state for a few more days. Once we get him to the Meldaron base, we will be able to accelerate his healing, using the medical facilities there."
    "What about the Schinicin’s? Won’t they detect us?"
    "Our Tech’s have been working on the shuttle, and they’ve managed to disable the Imperial transponder system. Providing we keep very close to the ground, and do not draw attention to ourselves, we should escape Imperial attentions."
    "Four hours?"
    "That’s right…."
Deerinea gave the young hyooman a quick and affectionate hug, before she left him to sit and think about things.

    Softly, Deerinea approached the other chambers, where Mack and Silverfox lay unconscious. Deerinea opened the door, to find a Meldaron temple priest sitting beside the two unconscious Anthro’s.
    "How are they holding up?" Deerinea asked.
    "The young male wolf Tashan – is gravely ill. As for the female fox Tashan, she is likewise grievously ill, but is recovering swiftly."
    "We’re moving on in under four hours – " Deerinea spoke. "I just pray, that the Schinicin do not strike this temple complex again…."
    "If they do, then we will fight to the last – to protect Millar's home." Spoke the Priest.
    "I know you will – but I just wish that we could lend you reinforcements or even some tanks and such of our own…to help defend the temple."
    "Millar will take care of us – as this temple has never fallen to invading forces…."
    "I pray – that it never will…." Deerinea nodded.

    Silverfox twitched, then moaned in pain.
    "Silverfox – " Deerinea whispered, as she took the young Meldaron’s paw.
    "Wha – " Silverfox croaked weakly. "What – going on?"
    "We’re moving out soon…."
Silverfox struggled to sit up, but Deerinea held her down.
    "No – try to rest. You’ve suffered worse than any of us today…." Deerinea gently spoke.
    "Did…is…." Silverfox whispered.
Deerinea gave Silverfox a small sip of some water, then nodded delicately.
    "Whitetail completed the ritual – and Mack is alive. However – he is in a critical condition, and we’ve got to get him to medical help…."
    "The Schinicin – "  Silverfox croaked.
    "Are no longer a threat – at least – for a while. We’re going to be moving our remaining forces and ourselves to the Meldaron secret base. I’ll organise some supplies and equipment for us…and I want you to rest. If there is anything you want – or need, just ask the priest here."
    "Can I – " Silverfox asked.

    Deerinea looked to the priest, who shook his head softly.
    "I’m sorry Silverfox – " Deerinea told her. "I can not let you out of bed just now. I want you to try and get some more rest…okay?"
Silverfox thought about opposing Deerinea’s suggestions, but realised – that Deerinea was only trying to take care of her. Silverfox moaned and Deerinea gave her another drink of water.
    "Only take small sips – " Deerinea spoke. "You’re dehydrated and your system has had a terrible shock. Rest and try not to worry…. It will all be alright."

    Suddenly, there was a piercing scream, and the sound of a laser pistol being fired. Deerinea swore and fled the chambers, nearly knocking over some Meldaron temple guards, who were likewise running to investigate the disturbance. Again, more laser fire ripped through the temple, and there were sickening thuds – the sounds of bodies striking the floor. They ran to the main cathedral – just in time to see two Weasel Anthro's and five Rat Anthro's run from the cathedral, carrying a small chest.
    "Oh sweet Millar!" Deerinea wailed, as she looked at the broken open altar. "Come on! They’ve stolen the Tome of Zra-Chak! We’ve got to stop them!"
One of the rats ducked behind a statue, then there was the briefest of muzzle flashes – a young temple guard staggered backwards blood pouring from his chest. Instantly, Deerinea and the other guards took cover, and un-holstered their own pistols. Another laser bolt cut down one of the guards and the others looked worried. These laser shots had come from two different angles…and they began to suspect that there may be a sniper lurking up above in the dim balconies above.
    "Get to cover!" Deerinea wept. "Go!"
Again, another guard was slain, blood spurting from his severed throat. He collapsed and lay choking – as his blood began drowning him.
    "Whitetail – " Deerinea shrieked in to her communicator. "We’ve got a sniper in the cathedral – and some damn spies have stolen the Tome of Zra-Chak! We need help!"
Only a crackling hiss came from the communicator – they were being actively jammed.
    "Damn it!" Deerinea wailed. "Cover me! I’ve got to alert the others!"
Obediently, five temple guards lay down a suppressing fire – giving Deerinea the chance to run from the cathedral….

    "Whitetail!" Deerinea wailed, as she ran through the temple. "Whitetail!"
    He staggered from his quarters, leaning heavily against the doorframe.  "What – "
    "They – they have stolen – " Deerinea panted, her breath ripping from her. "The Tome! They – stole the Tome of Zra-Chak!"
    "Who?" Whitetail exploded his rage instantly aflame.
    "Weasels – from the Maydane Swamps…." Deerinea gasped. "Some – rodent’s as well! They’re escaping!"
Whitetail swore venomously, then grabbed Deerinea roughly by her collar and ran back towards the cathedral. As they approached, a sickening explosion rocked the temple, driving Whitetail and Deerinea to their knees…. Smoke, dust and pieces of the ceiling pattered down, coating them both, as they struggled to get to their feet. When they edged closer, they were horrified to see the remains of the Meldaron temple guards – who had borne the brunt of the grenades. Their corpses were mangled beyond recognition, and Deerinea burst in to tears. Whitetail held her tightly against his chest and even he – was sickened by the damage the grenades had done, both to the sacred temple – and the Meldaron guards.

    "An – Schinicin high explosive anti-tank grenade – " Whitetail moaned. "Only that – could do such damage…."
    "Why? Why did they steal the Tome of Zra-Chak?" Deerinea wailed.
    "Why? Why is irrelevant…. Question is – how are we going to recover it? They could be anywhere in this complex…."
A dozen Meldaron military soldiers boiled in to the cathedral, and many of them were immediately stricken with the sight of the butchered temple guards.
    "You there!" Whitetail snapped, then coughed violently. "Rouse anyone and everyone now! We’ve got to capture those thieves!"
    "Sir!" Barked the Sargent, as he ordered his forces to spread out and round up as many temple guards as he could.
Deerinea fled in tears and Whitetail slowly approached the gore-spattered altar. Here, he knelt then bowed his head in prayer.
    "Oh mother Millar – " Whitetail wept. "Why has this befallen your most sacred of places? Why are we pitched against such callous and heretical fiends? This is a holy place – but they do not care. They have defiled your home – in taking of lives – and I swear…that I shall avenge this sacrilege…."

    A soft emerald glow began to form behind him – and Whitetail slowly rose, then turned about. Growing in its intensity, the emerald field began shimmering…and Millar herself stepped through the glowing portal. Whitetail immediately dropped to his knees and averted his eyes from his Goddess.
    "Arise – my child. "Come Millar's telepathic response.
    "Mistress – why? Why have you come to me? I am but unworthy of your grace…."
    "You will not recover the Tome my child…." Millar sighed. "Even now, they are fleeing through the catacombs…and soon – they shall be gone."
    "If they can escape – " Whitetail moaned.
    "There is nothing you can do – " Millar's telepathic voice spoke softly, but with the hint of authority touching it. "I had not foreseen this – and it is my fault – as much as anyone’s. I had the former High Priest place the Tome there. It was here – that I thought it would be safe…. I was wrong."
    "Mistress – " Whitetail wept bitterly. "If that Tome falls in to the hands of the Schinicin – "
    "I alone – take responsibility for allowing it to be stolen – my child. I was too overconfident in my own powers – that I dared not think – that someone would have the tenacity – to break in to my own holy temple – and steal the most treasured item in our Temple , right from under my very nose."

    "How – what – " Whitetail moaned.
    "There is little that you may do – to change that which has happened…. I alone , take full responsibility for losing the tome. It is my fault – and I alone – must deal with this."
    "Mistress – please…." Whitetail begged. "Let me help you!"
    "Call the young Vixen… I have something for her…."
    "Silverfox?" Whitetail whispered. "Her?"
Millar nodded softly.

    Whitetail ordered a young Meldaron soldier to fetch Silverfox. He returned shortly, supporting the weakened Silverfox, who stared in awe at the ten-foot tall goddess, who gazed back at her compassionately.
    "Silverfox – daughter of Charlene and Maxin Rajin – step forwards." Millar commanded.
Weakly, her knees trembling, Silverfox did as she was told – then knelt before the Goddess.
    "You know of what your fate holds for you – and in this regard – I present to you this weapon…." Millar spoke
A shimmering spear appeared and hovered before Silverfox. Its make was of exceptional quality, the broad blade of the spear tip gleaming in the guttering torchlight. All along the spear was intricate runes, etched in to the ancient wood of the spear.
    "This is the Spear of Meldaron …." Millar's telepathic voice spoke to them. "This weapon – was used in the banishment of the Dark Star Dragons…thousands of years ago. I give it to you – to help you in your quest…. Take care of this weapon my child – as it will serve you well – and will aid you in your ultimate goal . As we are all aware – the Tome of Zra-Chak has been stolen …and soon…it will fall in to the hands of the Schinicin . However – they can not restore the Dark Star Dragons from their banishment, as they do not possess the key – to unlock that Tome. I hereby give you…this quest. Find – and destroy – the Schinicin Emperor …. I can not offer you any more help than what I already am – and I pray – that you will succeed…."
    "Millar – I am unworthy – " Silverfox moaned.
    "Correction – you areworthy of being the one to wield this weapon. You are pure of heart and spirit…. Only you, with the spear in your paws – can confront the emperor – and see past the cloak of deception, that he hides himself behind. I know – that the Emperor – is notwhat he seems…. Only you – can face him – and see what he really is . With the aid of the Spear of Meldaron – may you do battle with the Emperor…and destroy his evil once and for all. He will try to deceive you – and this is where his downfall lies. He will not – if you are careful, know of you wielding the Spear of Meldaron – until it is too late. When you confront him – he will use all within his powers – to deceive and blind you. Do not fall for the emperors lies …as he is a master of deceptive ploys…and if you succumb – he will destroy you."
    "Millar – my mistress – this young Vixen…." Whitetail pleaded.
    "Silverfox Relah Star – is my chosen one…. Would you dispute my decision?"
    "No – my beloved mistress…." Whitetail bowed respectfully. "I do not wish to anger you…."
    "Whitetail – you are hereby sworn to protect this young Vixen…. Are you worthy of being the champion of my chosen warrior?"

    "Mistress – if you deem me worthy, then I shall do all that I can – to ensure Silverfox fulfils her destiny…." Whitetail promised.
    "Whitetail – I will never lie to you…or to any of my children. This quest – may well result in you…or others… losing your lives in this battle. It shall be hard – of that – you already know. Arrayed against you all – will be the entire Schinicin forces…. They will do all within their power – to either capture you – or destroy you. Should you fail, then the entire world of Meldaron…will fall forever. Her people will be lost – prisoners under the merciless heel of the evil Emperor . Within fifty years – the Meldaron people will be no more , and our legends and history will die with us…."
Silverfox whimpered softly, but Whitetail placed his arm comfortingly around her slender shoulders.
    "Silverfox – I grieve to have given one so young – such a burden. Please , believe me, when I tell you – that I would never have done this – if I felt…that you would not be strong enough to carry this burden…."
    "Almighty Millar – I believe in you…and I trust in your judgements…." Silverfox wept. "It is all just – such a lot for me to take in…."
    "I know it is…and I wish that I could ease your burden – but I can not. I just pray – that you succeed…and end this threat to your ownworld…and it’s people…once and for all."
    "What shall we do?" Silverfox asked. "Will your temple and its priests survive the Schinicin invasion?"
    "If we survive – we survive…." Come Millar's response. "Worry yourself not needlessly with such thoughts. If it is our time – then there is nothing that can change that."
    "What should we – " Silverfox asked.
    "What will be - will be. Now, go, as already, the dark forces consolidate their hold on this world – and they make preparations for your destruction ."

    With that, Millar vanished as suddenly as she had come….
    "What do we do?" Silverfox wept, as she hesitantly took the spear.
    "We do what is expected of us – we obey Millar's orders…." Whitetail replied consolingly. "Come on – the others will be ready by now."
    "So that’s just it? We just tuck our tails between our legs and leave the temple guards to fight the Schinicin alone?" Silverfox growled.
    "Silverfox – please. There is more to this temple, than you realise. Remind me, when we have the time – to tell you of the legend of this place…." Whitetail sighed quietly. "Right now – we’ve got to get ourselves away from here…and to the Meldaron base."
    Silverfox drew a shuddering breath, then sniffled.  "You’re right – the fate of Meldaron lies in the resistance…."
Whitetail gave her a gentle hug of understanding, then led her to where Deerinea was helping to load Mack on to a small stretcher.
    "How – " Deerinea began.
Whitetail silenced her with a look, then nodded towards Mack.
    "He’s resting comfortably enough – but I’d be much happier, if I could get him to a fully stocked medical facility…."  Deerinea sniffled.
    "That is exactly what we’re going to do – " Whitetail spoke. "Come on – we’re moving out…right now."

    Deerinea nodded then took one end of the stretcher, with Glider at the other. Together, they carried the unconscious Mack out in to the courtyard, where the shuttle pilots were warming the engines.
    "Lieutenant – " Spoke the Sargent of the Meldaron soldiers.
Deerinea paused, then looked at him.
    "With your permission – we’d like to stay here…. We want to fight alongside those who are likewise staying – to help defend the temple." Asked the Sargent.
Deerinea looked to Whitetail, who shrugged quietly, then carried the unconscious Tashan up in to the shuttle.
    "Sargent – "
    "Lieutenant – please…. Their forces are heavily depleted…and they sacrificed their own lives – so that we would have a chance. It is – the least that we can do…."
    Deerinea shuddered, then nodded quickly.  "Make it so Sargent…and…may Millar bless you all." Deerinea yelled, as the shuttle engines increased their power.
    "May she guide and bless you all as well!" Replied the Sargent, giving Deerinea a salute.

    Deerinea returned the salute, then ran up the shuttle gangplank. Just as she strapped herself in, the shuttle pilot raised the shuttle…and set course for the Meldaron base.
    "Here we go again – " Silverfox groaned.
    "Did you say something?" Deerinea asked.
    "No – " Silverfox sighed, then closed her eyes and to her surprise…she slept.
    "Poor Silverfox – " Whitetail whispered. "Why Millar chose her…."
    Deerinea and Glider looked at Whitetail. Whitetail sighed, then told them of what had happened. When he was finished, Deerinea and Glider were stricken speechless. Whitetail unstrapped himself, then went in to the cockpit and spoke at length with the pilot. They reprogrammed the shuttle communications systems to the Meldaron military’s emergency frequency…and prayed that the Meldaron’s were listening.
    "Captain – I want this code transmitted in ten second bursts…" Whitetail spoke quickly. "Stay with this frequency. If we’re lucky, the Meldaron’s will pick up the call…."
    "What if we’re unlucky?" Asked the Captain.
    "Then – this will be a real short trip – as the defence systems within the base – will perceive us as a threat…. Then – it will activate its emergency override controls…and blow this shuttle in to the next millennia…and us with it."

    Leaving the Captain to worry, Whitetail made his way back to the passenger area and sat down. He ran his paws across his muzzle, then rubbed his eyes wearily.
    "What can we do?" Glider asked.
Deerinea looked at him, then glanced at Whitetail.
"There is only one thing to do – " Whitetail spoke. "We pray…."

    After their escape from the Temple grounds, the thieves made their way south-east, to their small encampment. Here, they celebrated jubilantly on the capture of their prize….
    "Those Schinicin will pay a kings ransom for this book…." One of the weasels laughed.
    "That they will," Spoke a black furred rat. "I can not believe that those temple guards could be so easy to take down!"
    "Yeah – " Giggled the other Weasel. "Thanks to our sniper Blackpaw's…."
Blackpaw’s, the group sniper, smiled cruelly. He returned to polishing his most prized possession, his sniping laser rifle. What was most disturbing, is that he was a brush-tailed possum – a native of the peaceful Rainforest Cape province.
    "So – when do we alert the Schinicin to our prize?" Asked the first Weasel.

    A soft giggle snapped them out of their revelry. From out of the shadows, stepped a hooded and cloaked figure, followed by two dozen Schinicin infantry.
    "There’s no need – " Came the hooded figures giggle. "We already know…."
Immediately, the thieves snapped up their weapons defensively, then stared at the Schinicin, who we by far – much – quicker than they were.
    "Come now – " Spoke the hooded figure. "There is no need for violence…."
It giggled insanely.
    "How – who – " Demanded the Weasel.
With its paws, the hooded figure reached up – and cast back it’s deep cowl. Those who were looking at it averted their eyes, sickening retching sounds coming from them. This figure – was a hyena, his face covered with oozing sores and wounds. His paws and wrists were heavily bandaged in stained bandages.
    "I am Teric – " Spoke the hyena. "I would suggest – that you surrender the Tome of Zra-Chak…."
As they looked on, a pustulant wound burst and a sickening trail of pus and blood tricked down the hyena’s muzzle. Without noticing it, he stared at them, his black eyes glittering with the madness, which possessed his mind.
    "Hey!" Stammered the lead Weasel. "We had a deal…. We steal the tome…and the Schinicin give us a handsome bounty for it…."
    "Well now," Grated Teric. "It would seem, the rules have been changed? Would you not agree?"
    "We had a deal – " Whimpered the thieves, as they stepped backwards.

    They were backed up against a high cliff, and they glanced backwards, looking down at a two thousand-foot drop, to the valley floor below.
    "It would seem – that the Grand Admiral has had a change of mind…. He does not negotiate with thieves and scum like yourselves…." Teric giggled madly, then threw back his head and wailed with a bone-chilling laugh of utter madness.
    "You – you’re insane…you know that? Moaned the Weasel.
    Teric growled dangerously, then blinked and began gibbering and giggling.  "Mad…mad…I’m not mad…" Teric squealed hideously. "I’m not mad, I’m a total, certified fruit-cake!"
Sickened, the thieves edged back even further, away from this plague riddled Hyena….
    "Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak… now."
    "We – " Pleaded the Weasel.
    "Had a deal – yes – I know. However, the rules have been changed. Give the Tome to me…and I shall ensure you and your – party – free passage from this place. Also, I shall ensure that the Schinicin forces leave you and yours alone."

    Sensing that they had no other options, the Weasel looked to his companions. Their fear shone brightly in their eyes, as they realised that they had been double-crossed by the Schinicin forces.
    "Give me the Tome of Zra-Chak… now." Teric gurgled, then giggled madly.
Reluctantly, the Weasel lay it tenderly on the ground, then backed away from it. A Schinicin soldier stepped forwards, retrieved the tome, and returned to display it to the plague riddled Hyena. Lovingly, he caressed the tome and smiled wickedly.
    "You’ve made the right decision – " Spoke Teric. "Captain – please yourself and your men…."
    "Wait!" Pleaded the Weasel. "You said that – "
    Teric sighed, then turned back to look at the Weasel.  "I – lied."
There were the anguished cries of the thieves, then the Schinicin fired – and silence fell heavily. There was a stench of burned fur and flesh, which wafted over the slaughter.
    "There is – no honour amongst thieves…." Teric giggled softly. "Come Captain, we must report to the Grand Admiral. I believe – he will we more well disposed, now that we have the book in our possession…."
    "Yes sir." Replied the reptilian Captain, as he slung his weapon.

    They moved back in to the shadows, then Teric paused.
    "Captain – " He spoke.
    "Sir?" Asked the Schinicin Captain.
    "Bring me the pelt of that possum…. He will make an excellent addition to my trophy chambers."
    "Yes sir."
Quickly, the Captain made his way back, then after a few moments, he returned.
    "Sir – the possum…."
    "What of him Captain? Where is my trophy?"
    "Sir – his corpse…it’s gone!"
    Teric growled dangerously.  "How…I thought that you…."
    "Sir – we did shoot him…I suspect…he has fallen to his death – from the top of the cliff."
    Teric sighed.  "A shame – his pelt would have made a wonderful addition to my trophy chambers."

    They made their way back to their shuttle, where Teric paused and retrieved his bio-suit. With some help from the Schinicin soldiers under his command, he struggled in to it, then stepped aboard the shuttle.
    "Inform the Grand Admiral – we have completed stage one." Teric spoke, his voice muffled by the filters in his suit.
    "Yes sir." Replied the Captain. "By your command…."

    Little did they know, but the Schinicin had shot the possum, but he had only been grazed. He had deliberately fallen off the cliff, and using his exceptional dexterity, had managed to cling to the cliff wall. After he had heard the shuttle depart, he laboriously crawled back up the cliff and dragged himself over the precipice. He stared at the dead thieves and mercenaries around him, then sighed. Taking his concealable sniping rifle and other weapons and supplies, he set out through the forest around the temple, wondering what he was going to do…and if…he was going to survive….

            Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    "Grand Admiral – " Come a voice.
    "Yes Lieutenant?" Replied Sith Hirr Draconis.
    "Sire – a shuttle from Meldaron, is requesting clearance to land sir…."
    Slowly, the Grand Admiral leaned back in his throne.  "A – shuttle?"
    "Yes sir – they claim – to have a special priority delivery for you personally sir."
    "Very well – grant them permission to land…. I want a full battalion of soldiers present in the docking bay…in case this is a trap of some kind."
    "Shuttle Draknar – you are cleared to land…proceed along preset fly path." Spoke the controller.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis breathed deeply of the churning chlorine gas aboard his flagship, and then he watched the view-port as the Schinicin shuttle approached. His interest was sparked, as he wondered what they were bringing – that necessitated such importance.
    "Commander – notify me when the shuttle has landed. I shall be in my quarters."
    "Yes sire…" Spoke the Commander.
Grand Admiral Sith Hirr Draconis raised his great bulk, then swept from the bridge of his flagship, his mind churning with possible thoughts….

            Aboard the Stolen Schinicin Shuttle

    "Sir – we’ve got sensor contact…." Spoke the shuttle pilot.
Whitetail made his way forwards in to the shuttles cramped cockpit.
"Send the transponder code Captain…." Whitetail instructed him.
Quickly, the code was transmitted and after a few anxious moments, there was a soft chirp of recognition and Whitetail breathed a sigh of relief.
    "We’ve done it Captain – " Whitetail grinned. "We’ve been recognised and accepted by the Meldaron base defence systems. However – do not be alarmed, when we land – to see a armed contingent as a greeting party when we arrive."
    "Sir?" Asked the Captain, as he began the final approach.
    "It’s just standard procedure Captain. After all – this is a Schinicin shuttle…and we are at war…."
    "Sir – I thought that…."
    ‘Trust me Captain. Do not make any sudden moves. If the base defence computer gets suspicious…it will blast this shuttle in to dust…and us with it. Just keep going…and hold your course and speed steady."

    Down on the ground, hidden anti-starship guns tracked the shuttle, their lasers and missiles primed and ready to fire. Meldaron ground forces in several hidden tracking stations kept a very close eye on the shuttle – and they run passive scans of the life-signs aboard the ship. Slowly, the shuttle slowed and approached the secreted docking bay, located within the mountain itself. Every step of the way, powerful computer systems and their Meldaron operators tracked the shuttle…until it touched down.
    "Millar be blessed!" Whitetail moaned. "We’ve made it!"
There was a soft whine, as the shuttle engines slowly cycled down in to silence. Visible outside – through the shuttle cockpit windows, they could see the Meldaron soldiers taking defensive positions and there were quite a number of them – and heavy blaster cannons, quite capable to destroying the shuttle – should they fire.
    "Wait here – " Whitetail spoke.
Fearfully, the Captain nodded.  Whitetail walked back in to the hatchway then activated the controls. With a soft hiss of escaping air, the hatchway hissed open and folded itself down.
    "Identify yourself!" Come a voice.
    "I am field operative Whitetail, under the command of Lieutenant Deerinea, who in turn, serves King Reyard Russet."
    "Step out – and keep your hands above your head…." Come the voice.
Whitetail done as he was told, then under orders, he knelt, then placed his paws on the back of his head. Quickly, two soldiers approached and retrieved Whitetail’s identity card and ran it through a small electronic reader. It chirped and began displaying the information on Whitetail.
    "Sir – he’s clean." Spoke the other officer.
    "Sorry sir – " Said the first officer, as he handed Whitetail’s ID back to him.
    "It’s alright private – we are at war – and can not be too careful."

    Deerinea came down the gangway, carrying the stretcher, with Silverfox following, likewise helping to support the unconscious Mack. Glider and the shuttle pilot was the last to come out, and they were all likewise scanned. Naturally, the soldiers were highly suspicious of Silverfox, the unconscious Mack and Glider.
    "Private – they’re clean. They work with us." Deerinea growled.
    "I’m sorry Lieutenant – it’s routine. We’re going to have to confine them to quarters – until our Intelligence people have cleared them."
    "Private – " Deerinea growled.
    "Deerinea – you and I both know the rules." Whitetail spoke. "Let up on him – he is only doing his job."
Deerinea growled, but acquiesced to the orders.
"Silverfox – Glider – I’m sorry…." Deerinea sighed. "Orders have to be obeyed."
Silverfox nodded and Glider groaned, as they were lead at gunpoint to the secured quarters, where they would stay. Deerinea watched them go, then ordered two soldiers to carry Mack to the Infirmary. Here, he would recover – and be kept under constant guard. Whitetail sighed wearily then led Deerinea to the Command and Control centre of the base….

    "Lieutenant Deerinea – Whitetail – " Spoke the old Tashan wolf, that had been there at Foxville. "Millar be blessed – for I never expected to see you both again."
    "We do not have time for many pleasantries Commander, but we are both grateful – that you too have survived the attack." Whitetail spoke. "What information can you give us on the war so far?"
    Sadly, Commander Drakmarian sighed. "I’m afraid that it’s worse than it first appeared. Our military ground forces are down to forty-two percent – our space fleet has fled, and they’re down to twenty-nine percent…. It doesn’t bode well for us all I’m afraid."
    "What of his excellency – the king?" Deerinea asked.
    "His majesty was wounded in the destruction of Crown Castle, but he survived and is alive…."
    "Thank Millar – " Deerinea groaned. "Without him – the Meldaron’s morale would surely collapse. Sir – where have our space fleet fled too?"
    "They have fled to a neighbouring system – who are our allies. Here, they are undergoing resupply and repairs, then we shall keep them there…until we’re sure of what the Schinicin are doing. We expect the Schinicin to spread their fleet throughout this system…and if they do as expected, then when the time is right…we shall recall our remaining battle-cruisers and fighters…and try to bring down a few of the Schinicin Star-Crushers."
    "What of ground force deployment on Meldaron?" Whitetail asked.
    "Schinicin ground forces control vast areas of Meldaron, and all of the major industrial areas and other areas of military importance. They are now enforcing their rule – and our spies report that they are deploying their garrisons in and around the major cities and areas of key importance." Replied Drakmarian.
    "Hmmm." Deerinea growled. "It’s not good news for us…is it Commander?"
    "I am afraid you’re right Lt. Deerinea. Schinicin forces came at us so swiftly, we didn’t have any prior warning that they were coming…and they caught us unawares…."

    "What actions have been taken – to try and disrupt the Schinicin deployments?"
    "Our other field agents – are infiltrating key sectors…and working to disrupt the Schinicin communications and command structure. A few of our agents have managed to infiltrate the Schinicin industrial areas…and they are working secretly – to sabotage the Schinicin power supply infrastructure.
    "Sounds dangerous – " Whitetail pondered.
    "It is dangerous." Replied Drakmarian. "However – as you two know, you work as a team, and we’ve already lost over three hundred of our field operatives, as many were found out through those of our own forces – who defected to the side of the Schinicin."
    "Damn it all!" Deerinea snarled. "Why are our own forces betraying us?"
Whitetail placed a comforting paw on his mate’s shoulder. Even Commander Drakmarian was surprised by her sudden outburst.
    "I – " Deerinea began, then sighed and shuddered. "Commander – forgive me."
    "I forgive you Lieutenant – as you’ve suffered a lot lately…. Would you like a few days leave? To recover and rest?" Commander Drakmarian asked.
    "No sir…I must respectfully decline. Meldaron’s people need us all to do our utmost."
    "Lt. Deerinea – " Commander Drakmarian spoke. "If you need some time from your duties…just ask me."
    "Thank you – Sir." Deerinea spoke.
    "Now – tell me all about what has happened, since we last spoke at Foxville – and above all – how you’ve managed to steal an Imperial shuttle?"
    Whitetail sighed, then explaining all that had happened, between then – and now. When he had finished his debriefing, Deerinea told the Commander of all that she herself – and those of her companions, had done…. It was going to be a long… long…night for these three….

            Aboard the Schinicin Flagship

    There was a soft beep from the communications board within the Grand Admiral’s chambers. He lay on his massive bed, his eyes closed – the lights turned off. Drawing deeply of the chlorine rich gasses that swirled and eddied throughout this chamber, he idly reached out and touched the sensor.
    "Yes Commander?"
    "Sire – the shuttle has landed…and the passenger – a…."
    "Commander?"
    "Sire – he is a Meldaron…wearing a bio-suit and clutching some sort of…book?"
    Immediately, the Grand Admiral snapped in to battle readiness. "A…book?"
    "Yes sire…." Stammered the Commander.
    "Commander – detach a security detail to this Meldaron. I want him immediately brought to my chambers…."
    "Sire? – I thought it was your rest – "
    "The hells with my rest period!" Snarled the Grand Admiral. "Bring him here…NOW!"

    After a few moments, the door sensor pinged.
    "Come – " Growled the Grand Admiral.
With a hiss, the door opened and in walked Teric. He paused, as the two Schinicin soldiers stood attentively just inside the door.
    "Guards – leave us." Commanded the Grand Admiral.
Obediently, they stepped outside and the door hissed closed again. For several moments, Teric stood in the dark chamber, then there was the red gleam from Sith Hirr Draconis' eyes, as he opened them a crack to glare at the upstart Hyena.
    "Speak – " Rumbled the great dragon.
    "I would speak – " Teric giggled, then burst in to hysterical laughter. "If I knew to whom, I was speaking."
Uttering a low growl, the Grand Admiral called the lighting, which swivelled in on Teric, blinding him with its bright glare.
    "I have given you an order – " Hissed the Grand Admiral.
    "Ooh." Teric muttered, then giggled again. "Too scared to show yourself?"
    "Try not my patience – you insolent whelp." Growled the Grand Admiral. "I am not known for my tolerance for insolence."
    "Patience – my disgusting lizard…patience." Teric snickered. "What I have in my possession, I believe, will make you change your mind."

    Seething, the Grand Admiral hissed venomously.
    "Teric – you would be advised – to do as I have commanded…."
    "Oh? So the big scaly one knows my name!" Teric giggled insanely.
    "I know of who you are – " Whispered the Grand Admiral. "Also, I know of what you are."
    "Big deal – " Teric chuckled. "As if I really care for what some hulking lizard thinks."
His patience fraying, the Grand Admiral snapped a command and the chamber lights blazed in to incandescence. Teric giggled and walked casually across the deck, then reclined lazily in a chair. Incredulously, the Grand Admiral watched him, wisps of flame and smoke trickling from his nostrils….
    "Hey – " Teric smiled. "Nice place you’ve got here…decorate it yourself?"
    "Do not play games with me – you festering sore…."
    "Oh – name calling now?" Teric taunted him. "Surely – a creature of your authority would have a much thicker skin – or perchance – it is just your head…that is thick?"
    "What – do – you – want?" Grated the Grand Admiral, through gritted teeth.
    "What do I want?" Teric asked, then giggled madly. "What I want – you couldn’t give me in a thousand years…. Besides – it is what you want – that is important. I have something – that I believe – you wanted?"
    "Impossible – " Growled the Grand Admiral. "If our forces could not obtain it, how could the likes of – "
Teric smiled, then showed the Grand Admiral the Tome of Zra-Chak. He was delighted to see the great dragon actually fall silent.
    "You – the Tome of – " Stammered the Grand Admiral.
    "That’s right – sir scaly one. I have the one thing…that you desire."
    "How did you – " Asked Sith Hirr Draconis.
    "How? How is irrelevant. What is relevant – is what deal – are you willing to make for this book?"
    "I do not – " Began the Grand Admiral.
    "Correction – " Spoke Teric, with a manic giggle. "You do make deals now…."

    Slowly, Teric giggled and showed the Grand Admiral the Tome – of which, was only the cover.
    "You – " Exploded the Grand Admiral.
    "I may be a thief – a liar – and irreversibly insane – but I am not foolish. You want the book…and I think – we can come to a – shall we say…. A mutual agreement?"
Seething, the Grand Admiral snarled in rage, his roar reverberating deafeningly throughout the chamber. Teric smiled and added his own choking screams.
    "There – that feels better…doesn’t it?" Giggled the insane Hyena.
    "You DARE to make a mockery out of me?" Snarled Sith Hirr Draconis. "I could crush you – like an eggshell!"
    "You could – " Admitted Teric. "But you will not. Now, let’s negotiate. I possess the Tome of Zra-Chak – which you want…."
    "What do you – want from me?" Hissed the Grand Admiral.
    "Ah – straight to the point huh?" Teric giggled. "I like a man – which you’re not – who doesn’t want to haggle for hours…."
    "Let us not mince words…." Seethed the Grand Admiral. "What do you want, in exchange for this book?"
    "Well – " Teric pondered, idly tapping his gloved paws against his muzzle-mask.
His patience nearly at its end, the Grand Admiral rose and began pacing the chamber.
    "Well – " Teric resumed. "How about being the sole ruler – of this region?"
    Sith Hirr Draconis snorted in displeasure. "You’re mad – you know that?"

    Teric blinked, then to Sith Hirr Draconis' surprise, Teric threw back his head and shrieked in insane laughter. He even began gibbering and drooling, as he done an impromptu dance about the chambers, reinforcing Sith Hirr Draconis’ displeasure. What the Grand Admiral did notice, are the sores and wounds that littered the insane Hyena’s entire body. How – this Hyena could bear such pestilence – and still survive, amazed the Grand Admiral….
    "Aye – " Teric gibbered. "I’m mad…so what? Isn’t everybody?"
    "So – you want to be installed – as the regional governor of this sector?" Asked the Grand Admiral.
    "Yes – for starters…." Teric snickered. "That should suffice for the moment…."
    "What else?" Sighed the Grand Admiral.
    "Well – I want the Meldaron forces to obey me…come to think of it – disband or destroy the Meldaron forces totally…. I want my own personal battle fleet, based on this very impressive Starship…."
    "Star-Crusher." Growled Sith Hirr Draconis.
    "Starship – star-crusher…who cares?" Confided Teric.
    "Continue – "
    "Once these demands are met – then I shall consider my other requests…. If we agree to my demands, then – only then – shall I deliver to you, through a third party – the Tome of Zra-Chak."
    "You’re asking a lot – " Grated out the Grand Admiral.
    "Ah – but you’re receiving a lot." Snickered Teric. "I know – what is in that Tome, and what power it holds. You’re seeking to restore the Dark Star Dragons – aren’t you?"

    "How did you – " Exploded the Grand Admiral.
    "A lucky guess perchance?" Giggled Teric. "Think about it Captain – "
    "Grand Admiral – if you please…you festering – rancid – hideous creature."
    "Oh…well – excuse me – " Teric chuckled. "His excellency has spoken!"
    "Do not play games with me…." Seethed the Grand Admiral in rage.
    "I shall do as I like – " Teric shot back menacingly. "I alone, know where the Tome is hidden…and oh – whilst I think of it – you’re interrogation techniques will not work on me, as I am certifiably off my nut. I am out of my gourd, bonkers, crazy, a couple of biscuits short of the pack, a few cans short of a six-pack…."
    "I get the meaning…." Sighed the Grand Admiral. "Very well – I will be in touch with you…."
    "Undoubtably you will – " Smiled Teric. "I do not doubt it at all…Captain."
    "Get out!" Screamed the Grand Admiral.
    "Temper, temper…the naughty lizard is losing his temper – " Teric snickered, then left the chambers.

    After the plague riddled Teric had left, the Grand Admiral vented the chlorine from his chambers. Even though he knew that Teric was wearing a self-contained bio-suit…the Grand Admiral was positive – the stench of that decaying Hyena remained. Agitated, the Grand Admiral summoned the Commander of the Dragon Wing. After a few moments, the Commander arrived. He was a black scaled dragon, his blood red eyes furtive and sinister.
    "My liege – " Spoke the Commander. "I live to serve the Emperor."
    "Commander Zur-tarn – I have a mission for you…personally."
    "Speak of it sire."
    "That – creature – that just left here…holds some vital information that we desire above all else. I want you to follow him – and find out where he is living. Once you’ve done this, report immediately to me…and I shall give you additional instructions."
    "Yes sire – by your command."
    "You are dismissed Commander…."
    "You will learn – " Hissed the Grand Admiral. "Never try to betray a Grand Admiral…."

            Inside the Secured Chambers – Meldaron Base

    "Oh – this is just wonderful !" Glider groaned, as he stared at the force field that imprisoned them. "We’ve fought so long – and for so much – just to be turned in to prisoners?"
    Silverfox sighed softly. "Glider – we’re not prisoners."
    "How can you say that?" Glider growled, then kicked a chair at the force field.
It fritzed and the armed guard outside glared at him.
    "Knock it off…." Snarled the Tashan soldier.
    "Why don’t you make me?" Glider hissed.
    "Do not tempt me – boy." Growled the Guard.
Silverfox grabbed Glider, then forced him to sit down. Glider resisted at first, then sighed and complied.
    "Why are they treating us like this?" Glider asked.
    "Glider – they’re keeping us confined – whilst their Intelligence people run checks against our names – and identities. It is standard military operation. They do not know who we are…. We could be Schinicin spies for all they know."
    "Do we look like reptiles?" Glider hissed.
    "You know what I mean…." Silverfox sighed in exasperation. "Soon, once our names have been cleared and our identities confirmed, then we’ll be free."

    "I still feel like a prisoner – " Glider moped.
    "Believe me Glider – it’s for our own protection…and that of the Meldaron base."
Glider mumbled something, then lay down on the hard bunk and closed his eyes. Silverfox looked at him, then sighed again and sat down, and hugged her knees close to her chest.  Thirteen hours later, Deerinea came to them and ordered the force field to be dissipated.
    "Come on – you’re free." Deerinea told them.
    "About time – " Glider yawned. "I was about to die of old age."
Deerinea looked at Silverfox, who shrugged as if to say ‘Don’t ask’. Deerinea smiled gently then led them to more suitable quarters.
    "You’ll be sharing these quarters together…until we can find some more suited accommodation. Things – as you can imagine – are quite disorganised lately…."
    "This is fine – " Silverfox spoke. "A little on the light side – but fine. Thank you."
    "If you need anything – then just let the guard know…and he’ll see to it. I’ve got to get to work, and get you both outfitted and see to your training…." Deerinea answered.
    "Deerinea – "
    "Oh – Mack is recovering…and undergoing extensive testing, to ensure there is no – lingering – damage to him. I’ll try and get some time for you to see him, when I can."
    "Deerinea – I never said this before – " Silverfox stammered.
Deerinea paused in the doorway, then looked back at them.
    "I – just wanted to say – thank you. For everything…."

    Deerinea sighed, then turned back to Silverfox and Glider. Quickly, she gave them both a warm affectionate hug, then left the chambers.
    "Come on – let’s see about getting you both outfitted and enlisted…." Deerinea smiled.
Silverfox took Glider’s hand and they followed Deerinea out of the chambers. Glider paused, then looked at the Tashan guard. He stared back, until Glider reached out a hand.
    "No – hard feelings – okay?" Glider spoke.
Slowly, the surprised soldier blinked – then took Glider’s outstretched hand and shook it gently.
    "None taken – and I’m sorry for biting your head off like that…. We’re all under a lot of duress lately…."
"Aye – that we have been…." Glider admitted, then cuddled Silverfox warmly and followed Deerinea down the passageway. "That we have been…."

        Meldaron Military Base

    Deerinea led the two friends through a myriad of areas, thoroughly confusing both the Meldaron and the Hyooman. Deerinea knew where she was going, but Glider and Silverfox were left to stagger along in her wake – overwhelmed by the seemingly utter chaos that reigned within this base. People of all races were busy about their assigned tasks, barely giving the newcomers a second glance. For this, Glider was grateful –, as was Silverfox. They were too overcome with their own personal problems – to try and absorb all this.
    "Well – " Deerinea spoke. "We’re here. Go through this door, and the medic’s will give you a check-up…and then once you’ve passed that, we’ll get you settled in."
    "I feel – " Silverfox began.
    "Out of place?" Deerinea inquired, one eyebrow raising slowly. "It’s alright Silverfox, I’ll always be close to you all – and try to help when I can. You could say – that I’ll be your senior officer – "
    "You – " Glider asked.
    "Once you’ve undergone your training and such – yes. I will put in a special request, to take you three in – and train you myself."
    "Why?" Silverfox asked. "We’re no-one special…."
    Deerinea smiled. "Yes you all are – you’re my friends…."

    "Lt. Deerinea – report to General Taldarian – Mission ops sector." Come a voice communication.
    Deerinea groaned then hugged them both again. "No rest for the wicked huh?"
Silverfox and Glider watched Deerinea move off, about her assigned orders. Together, they made their way in to the chambers beyond, where they underwent rigorous physical and mental testing. After four hours – they were passed fit for duty, and Whitetail met them outside the medical centre.
    "What’s the verdict doc?" Asked Whitetail with a grin. "Are they certifiably crazy yet?"
    Their Doctor, a young male brush tailed possum laughed softly. "Not yet – but if they hang out with you long enough…they might be!"
Whitetail threw back his head and laughed uproariously.
    "What’s – so funny?" Glider asked.
    "It’s just that – Dr. Greytail here – has been my good friend for many years. It’s just our little joke between us. He thinks I’m crazy – and I’m starting to believe him."
    Doctor Greytail smiled weakly, then chuckled.  "Whitetail – you take good care of these new recruits – or else." He sternly told the Pearldinean.
    "You know me doc – always do." Whitetail smiled.
    "Of course I know you – and that is what worries me." Taunted the Doctor good-naturedly.
    "Come on – let’s get you two enlisted…." Whitetail spoke. "It’s going to be a very long day…."

    Once again, they were led through the Meldaron base, becoming more and more confused with the various twists and turns within it. At last, they were brought to the Office of Major Blacktalon – the Recruitment officer. They paused outside, and then there was a stern voice.
    "Come – "
Whitetail opened the door, then they entered. Major Blacktalon looked up, then gave them a quick glance over – and consulted the data pad on his desk.
    "Silverfox Relah Star – " Spoke the grizzled looking Coyote.
    "Sir?" Silverfox answered.
    "I see that your father – and Grandfather served in the great Meldaron war…."
    "Yes sir." Silverfox replied.
    "Have you undergone any military training in the past?" Asked the Coyote.
    "No sir – not formal training. I did learn from my father, the use – carrying and cleaning of a variety of weapons…hand to hand combat tactics – and starship piloting…."
    "Excellent – your skills will be honed to a fine edge – and we’ll find you a suitable position. At ease – corporal."
    "Thank you sir." Silverfox spoke.

    Pausing, the Coyote looked at his data pad and then glanced at Glider. He idly scratched his muzzle, then spoke.
    "Glider – is this your real name son?" Asked the Coyote.
    "Sir – it’s the name I’ve always gone by – since I was old enough to know my name…."
    "I see – family son?"
    "No – sir." Glider spoke. "I did not ever know my family. I was raised by foster parents – here on Meldaron."
    "Glider – that’s an interesting name son…. May I ask how you got it?"
    "Sir – I have been blessed with the ability – of flight. I do not know how, but ever since I was a child – I’ve had this natural ability…."
Blinking, Major Blacktalon stared at Glider.
    "Sir – permission to speak." Silverfox asked.
    "Permission granted Corporal."
    "Thank you sir – I wish to verify Glider’s story – sir. I have been friends' with him, since we were both very young. I have never known him to be dishonest, or mask the truth in any regard…."
    "I see – Whitetail – do you have anything to add to this discussion?" Asked the Captain.

    "Sir – " Whitetail spoke up. "I’ve only known them both for a while – but I’ve found them to be honest, open and halfway respectable as soldiers. Glider sadly, is lacking in proper training with weapon usage, but Silverfox – is quite capable. I feel – that she would benefit most, from further training in her chosen class of weapon, perchance – she may qualify for the sniping class."
    "Very well – I shall make recommendations to my superiors, and we shall begin their training. Glider – I hereby grant you the rank – of corporal. Congratulations recruits – and welcome to the resistance…."
    "Thank you sir." Spoke Silverfox and Glider.
    "Dismissed." Replied the Captain.

    Silverfox and Glider saluted sharply, and then the Captain returned it. Quickly, they left the chambers and waited outside. Whitetail joined them and smiled weakly.
    "Well – one minute you’re civilians – the next – corporals. That’s the military for you." Whitetail smiled. "Come on – let’s get you both some uniforms and identification passes."
    "Is it always like this?" Glider asked Silverfox.
Before Silverfox could answer, Whitetail spoke up.
    "No – actually, it’s worse." He grinned.
Silverfox couldn’t hold back her laughter – and she wailed in almost hysteria, so grateful to be finally able to give vent to these emotions, which the war had threatened to stamp out forever. Whitetail caught on to Silverfox’s veiled joke and even he began laughing. All around them, soldiers stopped and blinked, exchanging glances with each other. Indeed, Silverfox’s laughter had a remarkable vitalising effect on not only the companions – but also those who heard it….

    Finally, after what felt like months, they returned to their chambers and slumped down on to their beds.
    "Oh Millar – I am so tired!" Glider moaned.
Silverfox smiled weakly.
    "What are you smiling at?" Glider asked.
    "If you’re sore and tired now – you just wait for the real training and such to commence…."
Glider moaned weakly and rolled over – as Silverfox grinned and removed her heavy combat boots and uniform. As she changed in to something more comfortable, Silverfox caught Glider’s furtive glance – then his bright blushing.
    "What?" Silverfox asked. "Never seen a Vixen before?"
Glider blushed worse and turned back away from her.
    "What’s got in to you?" Silverfox asked. "Are we all embarrassed?"
    "It – it’s just that…well…." Glider stammered.

    Silverfox laughed delicately then slipped in to her loose robes. Then she came over and sat before him, as he took up her brush and gently began brushing her hair and neck fur.
    "What's wrong with you Glider? Has Millar stolen your tongue?" Silverfox whispered, as she moaned softly, enjoying the brushing.
    "It’s just that – well – we’re not kids any-more." Glider whispered, then shuddered.
    "I – am not quite sure that I follow you." Silverfox spoke. "What's eating you? Come on, we’re friends – you can share it with me…."
    Glider stopped brushing, then sighed wearily. "Silverfox – we’ve known each other all our lives…so let’s be open and honest with each other…okay?"
Silverfox slowly turned, to look in to Glider’s concerned face. He sighed again – then put down the brush…just as he was about to speak, Deerinea burst in to their chambers.
    "Suit up kids – we’re moving out." Deerinea snapped sharply. "Come on – let’s move !"

    Immediately, Glider was on his feet and Silverfox leapt to hers, then began struggling in to her uniform and boots. Glider lent her some much-needed assistance, and then they ran from the chambers.
    "Come on – move it!" Deerinea growled – unlike her normal cheerful self.
They ran through the passages, and down to Major Blacktalon’s offices.
    "Not bad Deerinea – but do you think you could motivate your recruits a little faster next time?" Major Blacktalon asked.
    "Sorry sir – " Deerinea spoke.
    "Alright recruits – I’m sorry for dropping you both in to the deep end, but this mission just came in. It’s a search and rescue mission. One of our fighters on combat patrol was shot down forty miles northeast of here. Our pilot managed to eject to safety, but he’s been injured in combat. I’d send the S&R crews, but they’re assigned to other duties right now. I am afraid – that you’re it. Can you handle it?"
    "Sir – with all due respect – I do not feel that my recruits are – " Deerinea began.
    "Lt. Deerinea, your objection is duly noted. I wish I had the forces to organise and deploy, but we’re running on a skeletal staff at the moment. A shuttle is standing by in the hanger, awaiting your arrival. I won’t lie to you – or your recruits. This mission is dangerous. Get in, find the pilot – and get the hell out again – before the Schinicin detect your ship – and you. Dismissed."

    Silverfox, Glider and Deerinea saluted the Captain, who returned the salute. Immediately, they boiled from the office and Deerinea led them to the star-fighter hanger bay. Here, Silverfox and Glider had but a moment to glance at the star-fighters and other combat ships, before they were herded in to the small shuttle."
    "Pilot – all aboard. Clear!" Deerinea snapped.
Instantly, there was the loud rising hum of the shuttles engines firing up, then Silverfox and Glider strapped themselves in. Deerinea did likewise, as the shuttle manoeuvred in to the launching tubes.
    "Shuttle Rescue-1 prepared for take-off." Spoke the pilot.
    "Affirmative shuttle…cleared for take-off." Come the controller’s response. "Good luck. Tower clear."
There was an explosive acceleration, as the shuttle was catapulted down the launching tubes and in to the early night sky. Flying low and without its lights shining, the shuttle hugged the treetops, avoiding any chance of Schinicin ships detecting it.

    "Alright – let’s gear-up people!" Deerinea spoke. "Come on – move it!"
Silverfox and Glider undone their safety harnesses, then prepared their weapons and packs.
    "Ten minutes to dust-off site." Come the pilot’s voice.
    "Make it five private – " Deerinea shot back.
    "Yes sir – increasing speed…." Replied the pilot. "Revised ETA – drop-site, six minutes."
    "I said – "
    "Lieutenant – forgive me, but we’re already touching the red-line. If we go any faster, our radar signature will be detected…and the Schinicin will know we’re out and about."
    Deerinea growled deep in her throat, but acknowledged the risks.   "Just get us there as quickly as you can private – that pilots life depends on it."
    "Yes sir – will do." Replied the shuttle pilot. "I’ll do my best…."
    "I just pray – that it’s good enough…." Deerinea sighed. "Alright people – it’s show-time."
They re-checked their weapons and rescue equipment, then waited patiently for the shuttle pilot to finish his last manoeuvring….

    "Transponder signal coming through strongly – " Spoke the pilot. "About three hundred meters – north/northeast from dust-off site. "ETA landing site – one minute."
Gently, the shuttle touched down and immediately, they ran from the shuttle. Spreading out, they used their tracking transponder receivers to locate the downed pilot.
    "We’ve found him – he’s still alive." Deerinea reported back.
    "Make it fast – ground tracking surveillance has detected Schinicin patrols closing on your position…." Come the response.
Glider cut down the critically wounded pilot and they carried him back to the shuttle. Here, Deerinea set about hooking him up to the shipboard medical systems, as Glider sealed the hatchway.
    "Let’s move – " Deerinea snapped sharply. "Schinicin patrols are closing in…."
    "Yes sir – " Replied the pilot, as he began cycling the engines up to speed.
From out of the dark forest, came the lumbering Schinicin tanks. Immediately, their tri-fire laser turrets swivelled in to lock on to the shuttle.
    "Lieutenant – " Squealed the pilot.
    "I know – I can see them" Deerinea growled. "Let’s move out…now!"
Quickly, the pilot launched the shuttle in to the night sky, and then it rocked heavily as the Schinicin tanks opened fire. Applying full power to the drives, the pilot blasted off, and was soon well out of range.
    "That was too close – " Deerinea spoke. "All right – great work people. Let’s get him and us home in one piece…."

    Glider moaned and slumped down in to the seat. Deerinea glanced over at him and blinked.
    "What's wrong?" Deerinea asked.
    "Are all our missions going to be this hard?" Glider asked.
    "Hard?" Deerinea spoke softly. " Hard? This was a walk in the park – you wait until we’ve really got a mission to handle…."
Silverfox smiled weakly and patted her friend gently. Glider looked at her, then back at Deerinea.
    "Easy? You call having a patrol of Schinicin tanks easy – which I might add – shooting at you – easy?" He asked incredulously.
Deerinea actually began to chuckle softly and soon, she was laughing loudly.
    "Glider – you do not know the half of it…." Deerinea chuckled. "Welcome to the resistance – and I suspect – a new life for you both…."
Silverfox sat in contemplative silence for a time, before she spoke up.
    "I’ve been thinking – " Silverfox began.
    "What with?" Glider teased her affectionately.
Silverfox managed a weak smile and punched Glider playfully.
    "You’re willing to take us on – as trainee’s under your command?" Silverfox asked Deerinea.

    "Well – " Deerinea countered. "That is my idea – "
    "May we ask why?" Silverfox asked.
    "You’ve both got good skills – Glider has the power of flight, or so you and he claim, as well as possessing the ability to use the lightning as a powerful weapon.  Besides Silverfox, you are a pretty good shot – and I believe – you would make a halfway decent sniper…."
    "What of Mack?" Glider asked.
    "Mack – now that young wolf is an enigma. I am not sure just where he will fit in – what is he good at?"
    "Whining – " Silverfox smiled.
Glider blinked at Silverfox, then chuckled softly.
    "Silverfox – " Deerinea rebuked her softly.
    "No – honestly – ever since we were pups…Mack has had a phenomenal ability to remember ways through things…. Like in the sewers beneath Foxville – he knew…almost instinctively – where to go…."
Deerinea idly lay her paw against her muzzle, and then her eyes grew thoughtful.
    "So – " Glider asked.
    "So – " Deerinea replied. "I do believe that he would make a fairly respectable addition to our group. Glider is – if you’re willing – going to be trained in security bypass and electronic systems…Silverfox will be our company sniper, and Mack, can be our spy or something similar. With his skills, we should be able to sneak in heavily defended areas – using the sewer tunnels and such beneath the areas of infiltration."
    "Sounds dangerous – " Silverfox whispered.

    "I’m afraid that the job carries extreme risks – but that’s a part of it. Sound equitable to you both?"
    "Fine with me – but I have a question…." Glider asked.
    "What is it?" Deerinea glanced at him.
    "Why am I – to be trained in electronic systems and security…and another question, is why does Whitetail not hold a rank within the military?"
    "Hey – " Deerinea growled. "That’s two questions…. Okay, we need a electronic security systems expert…and I gather…that you are interested in such things?"
Glider smiled and Silverfox glanced away.
    "Silver – " Glider spoke.
    "Hey – do not drag me in to this! I just said how you loved to tinker with machines and things…." Silverfox stammered, trying to withhold her laughter.
    "Okay – that’s resolved – " Glider spoke, the poked Silverfox. "You wait."
    "As for Whitetail – even though he is a fully trained military person – the reason he doesn’t hold any rank…is he declined it. He willingly serves the Meldaron military forces, but he did not want any recognition or ranking…which in his words – ‘Were more shrapnel’ – that he would be forced to carry. He loves the freedom and such he has…and does not go for military pomp and ceremony…. He prefers to carry out his mission priorities, then get it done – and return to a life free of the military strictures and rules."
    "He is a renegade?" Silverfox asked.
    "Well – yes and no. He will do all that is asked of him – for the cause – but he does not like being bound to the military staffing meetings, debriefings and other such bureaucracy that all military forces seem to propagate. He just believes in getting the mission orders – getting the mission carried out – and getting out again. Preferably, with a successful mission and in one piece…." Deerinea told them.

    "What of our training? What can you hope to tell us of it?" Silverfox asked.
    "Regrettably, not much – you will undergo basic training and weapon skills, and once you’ve passed those – you’ll move on in to your more specialised training fields." Deerinea admitted.
    "Will we – you know – still have time for each other?" Glider asked.
    "Of course – but there may be times – when due to different mission parameters, that you’ll be separated. I will try to keep you all together – as with some luck – you’ll form the base of my own personal squad. I will apply for special training, and if I pass – then I will be your squad’s commanding officer – " Deerinea told them.
    "Lieutenant – we’re set for landing…." Spoke the pilot.
    "Inform base medical staff – we’ve got the patient and need urgent medical assistance in the landing bay." Deerinea sighed.
    "Yes – sir." Replied the pilot, as he quickly verified landing protocols and relayed the message to the groundside controllers.

    Quietly, the shuttle passed through the shielding of the base – then touched down gently on the landing pad. Within moments, the medical team was aboard and stabilised the wounded pilot – before they moved him out in to a stretcher.
    "Efficiency – " Silverfox spoke.
    "Well – we’ve got a limited number of pilots – and we sure can not afford to lose any of them. Ground tracking stations can only do so much for us – but we need the Meldaron pilots – to go on routine scouting patrols…to ensure our safety." Deerinea told them.
    "What of the Star-Crushers in orbit?" Glider asked. "Won’t they detect the launching and such?"
"It is a danger – but our star-fighters are small enough…and fly low and fast. Schinicin orbital sensor sweeps get all confused, as the natural terrain around here has a high magnetic ore deep within it – that masks and distorts sensors." Deerinea smiled. "It’s one of the reasons – why we built our base here hundreds of years ago."
    "If the terrain – " Silverfox began.
    "Our technicians had worked that out – and our systems are attuned – somehow – to filter out the magnetic interference…." Deerinea replied. "Come on – let’s report in to the mission officer – and get our debriefing…."
Glider and Silverfox moaned, dreading the debriefing and subsequent discussions on their missions to come….