Destiny

Taking the Maru down to the planet, on board, Beka was piloting while the others were in the bach. It was quiet, for they really didn't know what to say. So they sat, staring at each other as they made their way down. Harper decided to break the silence, "So, what can we expect down there?" He asked, smiling at Talis. She smiled bach, "Well, we will be greeted then escorted. Nothing to hard." Harper nodded, as he got up and grabbed a Sparky Cola. Beka's voice came over the comm, "Hey, we're landing. Prepare to exit." She maneuvered the Maru down, landing with ease. As the motley crew disembarked, waiting for them were a few older mixed group of Shadowrychë.

“It has been sometime since we saw you last Talis Circe. I am hoping the reasons are more pleasant than last.” Maarten Lucian stated, looking at the new comers with Talis.

“Yes Maarten, infinitely better than last time. There are only one hundred and twentymillion Jedrad’s reasons.”

“Hey Talis…..Talis! You just get here? You up for some refresh on SOME of your skills?” a female Shadowrychë teased. Talis smiled and looked very pleased with herself.

“As a matter of fact, I brought a most pleasing crew; maybe they will enjoy the refresh more than I Britni.” Talis said, looking at the Andromeda crew

“Whom did you bring Talis Circe?” Zanach Krell, a very dignified male Shadowrychë inquired with dark twinkling eyes.

“Maarten Lucian, Zanach Krell and Britni Dinnnotig, may I introduce Captain Dylan Hunt, his first officer and Captain of the Eureka Maru Beka Valentine, Weapons officer Tyr Anasazi, Chief Engineer Harper and Medical and Botanist Trance Gemini… all of the Commonwealth.” Talis said, as she pointed out to each person.


“Welcome to Aralias. A planet very few off-worlders have ever seen. The accommodations have been made as well as your request Talis Circe... I leave them in your charge.” Zanach Krell stated, as the entire group left him.

“What request?” Beka asked as Britni came forth with a flexi in her hand.

“It is our policy to teach different skills; one of many is the art of intimacy. It would be encourage that all from both crew participate. There are enough people here to entice all appetites.” Talis said with a wink and grin.

“ALL appetites?” Harper asked with a smirk.

“Correct Harper, I already learned that the Nietzscheans are not ones for procreation without the benefits of marriage and children. I have something different in mind for Tyr.” she walked over to Tyr after taking the flexi from Britni.

“I have had my people compile a list of names, their houses, ancestors and the like for you, Tyr. In hopes that you would form an alliance with the Shadowrychë. I have done extensive research with Rommie on board to find out that we…Nietzscheans and Shadowrychë are indeed cousins.”

“The list has both male and female names on it.” Harper pointed out as he read around Tyr’s arm.

“It is unlikely to think Tyr would choose a name for love, rather he would choose for political reasons. Each name has a picture and a brief bio. My people put it together as if they would if it was for my choosing.” Talis simply stated.

“What of children?” Beka wanted to know.

“We have choices…natal and sanctioned wombs, where an empty egg and sperm can have two people’s DNA codes placed in them, before the ova and semen are inseminated, regardless of gender.” Talis explained.

“Your list was and probably is pretty long Talis Circe, is Anasazi Tyr certain this the task he wants in his life.” Britni inquires.

“Why do you say his name like that? It’s Tyr Anasazi.” an upset Harper states.

“The ancestor’s name goes first before the personal name. I apologize for the incorrectness of your ownership of your name. I will use it correctly; understand that it is our way here to use it the opposite way.” Britni said apologetically.

“Understood.” Tyr simply stated.

“We have provided you a residence for you to conduct your interviews. If you shall come with me, I will take you and helping any way else you need.” Jella Sillis said, as she began walking.


“Captain Hunt, the Shadow Order Of The Rychë counsel has convened. They are very interested in your Commonwealth and would like for you to enlighten them on your mission. If you would follow Fynna Tula.” Maarten said, motioning to Fynna as she walked over to them.

“Well, what about me, Trance and Beka?” Harper pouted.

“We have a huge arboretum for Trance to enjoy. I am sure she will find some specimens of interest to her and to the Andromeda crew.” Synni Xuxa said with a polite smile.

“As far as you two, again the offer of intimacy still stands.” Talis said, grinning.

“Let me try and understand you, you want us to have sex with the Shadowrychë?” Beka asked with a surprised look on her face.

“Yes.”

“Why?” Beka asked, still unsure of the situation.

“It is our policy not to get attached to our teachers and to explore the intimate desires the partners have.” Talis said with a smile.

“You mean the normal desires.” Beka said, smirking slightly.

“People have desires, as long as both parties give consent, then what is normal?” Talis asked, slightly confused.

“So if people wanted a three-some or orgy, same gender, whatever, that’s perfectly fine?” Harper asked with a big grin.

“What do mean teacher? You guys have people who teach sex?” Beka asked, shocked by that statement.

“We have people who are sensitive to another’s feeling and enjoy the intimacy of sex. There for; they are the teachers, while the beginners are the students. We all started as beginners.” Talis stated.

“Do you have any plans to be a teacher, Talis?” Xhalax getting upset.

Talis grinned, “No, I do not. For one, Genesis would skin me alive.” she laughed at Xhalax’s obvious discomfort. “For another, so would you Xhalax. If there are no more questions, follow Troyal Muir and enjoy Beka and Harper.” she grinned at them both and the Cabal squad. “The offer stands for you all. You guys deserve some R and R.”

The happy group moved off with Beka and Harper.

“Hey Talis, Talis…did you hear the news?” Jolyn asked, as a large mixed members of the Shadowrychë stopped near Talis and Rel.

“Hey Jolyn…what news?” Anic and Talis asked as they turned towards the new comers.

“That Saget Sala and Randall Kasa are getting married. They are a good match, the consensus agrees with it. They are both alike and they are totally different. He loves her and it shows and she loves him just as much. They are sooo perfect together, they really love each other, you can see it…hey, I didn't mean to upset you just trying to fill you in on the gossip.” she stated as she took a step bach.

Talis turned towards her, anger clearly on her face, “Have some respect. Where are your loyalties? Do you really think that their ex’s wants to hear that? Saget Sala, Randall Kasa, Needham Sari and Lane Maynard should set the tone of that conversation. Either way, you should show your loyalties by baching each person, do you have any idea if they want to hear you gush about the other? Or even if they are in a place to hear ya’ll gushing? Are you so sure about their feelings in this matter? Damn you people …don’t you even think?” Talis walked off, while the newcomers whispered amongst themselves.

Angrily babbling to herself, “Yes, they’re just that perfect, sensitive mates for each other. Ya’ll think they never had previous relationships that taught them everything for each other. And you bloody well approve, thanks love.” she snorted loudly as she continued on her angry tirade while walking.

Rel quickly caught up with her. Obviously Talis was trying to calm down, to control her anger so she wouldn’t take it out on him.

He cautiously asked, “My request has been put in thru the proper channels. When do you think an answer will be reached?”

“Since we are here and there are many other matters that need similar attention, your request will be thoroughly examined. In a few days, you will have your answer.” Talis stated, in her best diplomatic tone.

“Thank you, I didn’t think it would be a possibility.” Rel said as he smiled at her.

“ ‘Nothing ventured, nothing gained’. You will have to talk to the advisors on this matter as well as I.” Talis returned the smile, finally able to push the previous ugly incident aside.

He softly stroked her arm; she could feel his excitement run thru the touch before he left. The next few days would be very interesting to all.

***********

Meeting Tyr in the café, Talis put in her order for this afternoon’s meal, she spied Tyr at one of the tables; his meal already served as he continued to read the flexi she gave him.
“Good afternoon Tyr. I see your list is keeping you of interest.”

“Good afternoon Talis, you have compiled a fantastic list. It’s hard to know where exactly to start.”

“You have decided to talk to the family members…not immediate family but the offshoots? They are less likely to give their ‘glossed’ versions of their child; you would NOT believe some of the true personalities people have. The lazy, the self-centered, the controlling, the manipulative and manipulation.” She rolled her eyes, “Universe help them and the mates they trick, put up or enjoy those traits. Not my cup of tea.” Talis picked up her own empty teacup, giving a small salute with it before continuing. “My own wife has a temper but it’s wonderful…almost, to engage.”

“You really find a strong temper a plus?” Tyr asked, curious.

“You would have to know my Genesis. She has a wonderful brain, healthy body and endless supply of patience when it comes to our children. My strength and my heart. Cross her and a person might not wake up the next sunrise. She’s infamous with my Cabal squad.” She drank her juice and began to eat her meal; Tyr put the flexi down, noticing the amusement in Talis’ voice on this subject.

“How?” he inquired.

“As much as she loves me,” Talis chuckled, “She’s not crazy about my choice for a career. I did end up hurt on past missions. The Cabals draw straws to
find someone to tell her; to which she throws something. Only she would attempt to maim the messenger of bad news. That energy.” Talis gave Tyr a satisfied and understanding grin. He returned it, “Understood.”

He picked up the flexi again, perusing thru the names and bios. “Any help in narrowing the list down?”

“Yes, if I may?” he handed the flexi over; Talis went thru them, eliminating the list by a third. She returned it to him. “That should help you. I eliminated the same names here as I did from my list. My advice, the strongest house with the person who will make the best and truest partner, not just a ‘good match’ for they might not stand the test of time or hardship, when things really count.” Talis pointed out.

“And your match, is it a good one?” Tyr inquired with interest.

“Hell no! It may look like total madness if you look at it from the outside.” She grinned, “What Genesis and I have, it’s special. At a very unusual time in my life, it became more then two people who had things in common. We loved each other as truly as two people can, but there was more to it then that. We were friends first, which made it even better when we became mates. When we did…..it was something pretty amazing. Not just two people who share the roller coaster of life….which most people think we are doing. Sharing life but not true mates.” Talis explained to Tyr before continuing in a calm tone, “Besides, she LOVES me.” Talis grinned and laughed, “As I love her, Mijn Engel {My Angel}.”

“Are there many Shadowrychë that have the same arrangement as in your pride, your house?”

“We have a few who are same gender couples, but there hasn’t been a Vijf-Huwelijk until now. I did hear of a Drie-Huwelijk before I left for this assignment.” Talis stated, looking at him.

“Vijf? Drie? Huwelijk?”

“Yes…five and three Het Toetreden or precisely Huwelijken…how do you say; marriages. My Destiny says that I will have two wives and either two more wives or to husbands or some combination. We shall see.” Talis said with an even tone.

“A lot of responsibilities.” Tyr simply said.

“Yes, very worth it.” she pointed out.

“Would all those wives and husbands be intimate with each other?”

“Is that how it is for your matings?” Talis inquired

“No, it is usually one male and many wives.” Tyr replied.

“Ahhhh, for myself it would depend on the group and what they decided. It goes without saying all would approve and of course the Shadow Order Of The Rychë also. Nothing I do can I do reckless, not any more.” she changed the subject, “Orianna from the house of Panthera Leo, I believe would make a good…a well suited partner for you Tyr. Headstrong, a bit vane, hmmmm a lioness for your children.”

“I will consider it.” He leaned closer to Talis and smiled.

“I don’t suppose that your name is on this list?” he breathed in her continuous aroused scent, watching the confident woman swallow nervously.

“Ahhhh…umm, you…you’ll have to look and see.” She drew bach from the handsome Nietzchean.

“Any child of mine would include bone blades, as our progenitor wanted.”

“It is a matter of activating the correct DNA sequence in the child, in the first trimester.” Talis said, stating the facts.

“What of this reseq you talked about?” Tyr asked, again with interest and intrigue.

“Ah yes, for instance, my daughter Trance Gemmii was born with dark hair and eyes. When she became five seasons and learned of her honour-name, she requested a change in her appearance to reflect that name.” Talis said with pride in her voice.

“Honour-name?”

“Yes, the closer a person’s name, the higher the honour…..Talis Keres, Talis Circe.” she explained.

“Ahhhh, so your daughter wanted to look like the old purple Trance?”

“Yes but we only allowed her to change her hair and eyes to purple. Of course now seeing Trance red and gold, I don’t know if Gemmii will stay with the purple or change it. She is very strong willed.” Talis said, smiling.

“Like her mother?”

“Like her parents.” Talis grinned.

Her mentor walked into the room, glancing around until his gaze caught hers.

“If you will excuse me, there is someone I need to talk too. Much luck with your list and to your new mate Tyr.”

“Of course.” Tyr said, with his usual tone.

Talis walked over to Maarten. They both left the café to wander the sacred corridors that lead to the mystic room. The very large room had a mosaic Cretan Labyrinth design on the floor. The purpose of the room was to walk the mosaic design while reflecting on one‘s own life, dreams, problems and the like. At the center, one would be still and wait for insight, healing or the Universe’s presence. As they re-walked the path from center out; it was possible to be at peace and illumination with their selves, the environment and ultimately the Universe.

Talis and Maarten started at its outer edge of the familiar design. Talis spent many days walking, reflexing until she became stronger when she finally reached the center, repeatedly.

“The bane of your existence is not only on this world, but is brought by you. The universe must have a plan for you, Circe. Do you know what it is?”

“Yes Mentor, it is to make aware of my life, to bring me full circle and to seek closure. Once completed, I will no longer need the tea.” Talis stated with certainty.

“How has your will and your defenses reacted to these events?” Maarten.

“I burn; I burn with the hatred of knowing she is bach, that she is turning to me, for answers, for a possible friendship, or even possibly a relationship again. I am sadden; sadden for the path that I saw, that was not chosen, I loved…” She took in a deep breath before releasing it, “I loved for this was my first and I will always love her. I am calmed, calm in the knowing of my future and hers. The tea helps me see things clearly.” Talis said, nodding.

“Yes, the tea does exactly that. I want to know that you are not over using the tea, to seek revenge on her. You will meditate on this fact. Revenge is cold, empty, pointless and ends up doing more harm than good.” Maarten said with a smooth tone.

“Yes Mentor.” Circe bowed her head.

“There are more matters on your mind Circe; it is a matter of seeing your ‘real face’ to know.”

She sighs, knowing his words are entirely true. She didn’t have any tea, and took to avoiding Trance so she could be unaltered with her mentor.

“Yes Teacher, there is, it is a matter of men. I have dealt with men most of my life. This is on a different level. Commander Rel has put in his request, it has been evaluated with the counsel and I don’t see any professional reasons to turn his request down.” Talis worried her wedding band.

“And personally?” Maarten inquired.

She sighed longer, “Personally, I cannot think of one. Can you? He is attractive.”

“Yes he is, you will not find a truer male or partner Circe. He isn’t the only one.” Maarten pointed out.

“Very true. No he isn’t. Something happens whenever I get near the Nietzchean.” Talis said, almost blushing; avoiding her mentor‘s eyes.

“Ahhhh yes, Anasazi Tyr. Kodiak pride.” Maarten stated.

“What of his path?” Talis asked, obviously dying to know.

“His has been long, treacherous and sharp like a knife. His name will be remembered in his history…providing that there are a few left to remember him. He is a loner, not by choice but thru circumstances. He too has many paths to choose from and to walk upon.” Maarten told her simply.

“And if I?” Talis started to say.

“Then for a short time, the circle will be completed. We have seen his Destiny, as well as Commander Rel’s. You have chosen wisely.”

“Have I? This world of men, while I haven’t known, I have chosen somewhat differently than other Shadowrychë.” Talis said with a sigh.

“I know of your extreme hesitation towards men. Your house will keep all in balance, Circe.” Maarten said, showing no emotions.

“Does it ever get easier? I made a bad choices, paid for it and learned. You helped me thru it. So, does it ever get any easier?” Talis asked him.

“If life was entirely easy Talis Circe, would it be worth living? Would the roller coaster of life be that exciting, if it was that easy? Would we be the person we evolved into? Would you? I leave you with these thoughts.” He said simply, before leaving her to think over his words.


Talis started to walk again on the pink mosaic tiles that lay out before her feet. There are several colours to choose from, all ending up in the center. Breathing deeply then slowly releasing it, she rolled her shoulders before she walked; all the while humming the ancient tunes of something called loaf of meat. She continued humming, lightly mouthing the lyrics, 'But I won't do that.' That particular song was one of two she liked, the other was about two out of three ain't bad. Such weird words they had, she often thought when she'd hum that tune.