Alana had been standing behind Adam listening to Niona speak.
Alana said, “By all means, please join us. We have missed your company and your counsel. I never believed that Fionna spoke for you; only wondered why you said nothing at the time.”
They walked inside to the living room and sat facing each other. Niona spoke first.
“I said nothing because I wondered how much of what she said was true, even for me. Our species most certainly does look down on mortals; we never mate with them and, as a rule, feel superior in every way. We do not consider it arrogance if the facts support the belief. But during my time here with this family, I have learned that longevity alone without empathy, love and wisdom is an empty life devoid of all that allows us to fulfill our purpose to the Living God. We cannot exist solely to know more and use our powers for whatever purpose we see fit, given only scant guidance from the Great Master.”
“What are you saying, Niona?”
“The worst parts of me started out observing and trying to understand the creatures of this planet, the strife between the species and what role I could play, given that Liara the Creator was deeply involved here. Normally we would step back from this local trouble and let nature take its course. But Liara was doing something out of character with one mortal in particular, so I decided to stay and observe. Then I discovered that a half mortal half Immortal of another species of Immortals has been sent to observe this unique human and then kill him. Except she transformed from assassin to loving this bag of flesh and bones. Something did not add up, as you humans would say, so I intervened. At first, I was guilty of what Fionna said. I experimented. I experimented with you, Adam. With physical exhilaration first, then my experiment went too far. I allowed myself to have feelings and emotions, to feel love and commitment, to care about mortals who should be beneath me, but in their own way were superior to me in every respect. After a while, I could not bear to be away from my mortals, one in particular who was so different in every way, yet so thoroughly human in his weaknesses that I was confused at first. But then I realized that I felt love and that made me feel alive in ways I could never describe. I didn’t care about being an Immortal; I wanted only to be a part of a family, this family. To love Adam and be loved by him. But the secrets of the Immortals I knew would catch up one day and I feared to act as one of my species, and I also feared to lose the love of my family. I knew I could not have both.”
“I never knew, Niona. I’m so sorry, I never asked or understood.”
Alana said, “What brings you here tonight? I see that you are torn between two worlds; to the one you once knew and the one you now know. Can you live in both?”
“I cannot. Fionna is right. I must leave, or I must stay. Fionna thinks only of the work, her experiments and nothing more. She can return home and report her lab rat findings untouched by the experience. She expects I will do the same; there is no life for me here after you die Adam. My work will be finished, and I must return home.”
“I see.” Adam had hoped for another way, a third way. Apparently, it was not to be.
“I am saddened by your need to choose; it is terribly unfair,” said Alana. “Will you and your sister depart together?”
“No. And that is why I am here to speak plainly with you both.”
“What is it?”
“I left the planet to speak with my Great Master, who is compassionate and wise, though stern in the rules that govern my species. I asked him for something never before permitted. He granted my request with one caveat. A caveat that would mean my expulsion from his realm.”
“What are you saying?”
“My Master has allowed me to become mortal, with all my skills and powers intact, but only for so long as I am mated to you Adam, and only for so long as you live. If you die, I perish with you. Whether that is tomorrow or for eternity, I must be by your side or die. I must decide tonight, so I wish to know if I am forgiven by you both and will be welcomed back to our family.”
“Is this what you truly desire?” Alana thought her sacrifice too great. “Adam will be dead soon; there is nothing we can do to prevent Liara from carrying out her death sentence. It seems too much of a sacrifice for what must be but a blink in the eye for you.”
“I am not convinced of that, but while I understand it is likely, I am willing to accept this fate. I wish to spend all my days with Adam and this family, fighting these battles and committed to saving all that is good on this small blue and insignificant orb. If you will have me, if you still love me, I will willingly make this sacrifice for the love I feel I every time I am with you Adam and you Alana, and all the characters who love you and our mission. I wish to be part of something greater than me and my Immortality. Our love will live eternally as will the good we do here.”
“If you make this choice, you will have my undying love and Alana’s, and we shall return to the time before any of this madness took hold. I have locked away memories of our tragedy for most; Alana and I are the last. Join us, and we will dream no longer of the pain we once knew.”
“Then, I accept mortality with you Adam St. James, and with you Alana McCarthy. I wish to be wed once again in Chapel and renew my vows of fidelity to the man I love.”
“Perhaps tomorrow we shall all renew our vows to strengthen our love and resolve. But I shall reserve my wedding night for you, Niona, if you so desire.”
“I do. Though I may wish the company of my renewed sister, Alana.”
“Who am I to refuse such a fortunate request? Alana?”
“I believe my schedule is free and your parents can babysit. I am overjoyed. Come to me sister, we have much to discuss.”
Chapter 21
Misti began the meeting that included almost everyone connected with the planning and execution of the major activities of the project. Her sudden reappearance was welcomed by most, unsettling to a few. But that she was always fully in command when present in the City, more powerful through force of will than even the Manti, was never doubted. Her invitation to attend the conference in the Great Hall this evening was not mistaken for an “attendance optional” invite; invitees were being summoned and it was mandatory.
Before the request went out, Niona, Vera and Alana met with Kendra and Hecate at the small Chapel adjacent to main Cathedral to renew their vows with Adam and solemnize the commitment each had to Niona for the incredible sacrifice she had made not just to Adam, but to the world. Alana and Vera still were incredulous that Niona, who had lived untold lifetimes, could give it all up for one man; a man who was destined soon for death. Yet Niona seemed at peace with herself and her decision; her demeanor vastly changed. She gave up wearing her Sari and began singing instead, soft, and low in the evenings. Her voice was soothing and mellifluous, the sadness and joy of living permeating all who heard the strains of her voice.
“I have invited all of you here today for two reasons; one for an announcement of great import from the Manti and the other from me about our near and distant futures. I give the floor to my husband.”
Adam ascended the stage alone.
“I am not one for speeches, nor do my best efforts inspire many to action. It is not in my nature to attract attention to myself. In the audience today are those I know and love, whether family, friends, wives or my closest allies and kindred brothers of the Gens of many clans. Tar, my brother, Akira my father and mentor, Orsin who has adopted our cause, have shown me fealty and friendship, loyalty, and commitment in making this world whole again. None us knew the difficulty we would undertake, but for those closest to me, whose commitment has been steadfast, the insurmountable task we have undertaken has warmed me with respect and intense gratitude. I have not the words to express my deepest inner feelings of elation that I am surrounded by such friendship and love.
“I think all who know me know how deeply committed I am to our project, my family and the people of Paraiso despite my impending fate. I face each day with joy knowing that however long I am to be blessed
to live among you, I have been even more fortunate to have known each of you. Like a mosaic, or puzzle, you have added to our project the pieces that will, in the end, lead us to success. I would bring each and every one of you up to this stage for an abrazo and a kiss, but I fear what Tar might do to me.”
Everyone laughed.
“But today, here and now, I must speak of one whose love had already captured my heart, but whose sacrifice for me now, for you and for all the world touches my soul in a way I am unable to express sufficiently. Today I renewed my vows with her, with Vera Capri and with Alana McCarthy to express that though my life will soon end, my end will be hopeful and fulfilling. I would ask that my wife, renewed, please join me up on stage. Please Niona, the Huntress, unite with me now.”
All eyes turned to the beautiful Immortal who all thought had abandoned Adam along with her sister and removed to Nabataea to practice their arts on those who were enemies of Paraiso and the world to come.
Niona seemed uncomfortable having thousand of eyes cast upon her, even while standing next to Adam. She was a fierce warrior, the wielder of the Sari of Death, and afraid of no being anywhere in the Universe she inhabited nor in the vastness of the RealVerse that was. But suddenly she felt shy and wishing to be alone at home with Adam and his ladies, the children, and the many frequent visitors, all of whom sought time with the Manti.
“I sense that my wife would rather be anywhere but here, so I shall be brief in my comments and praise for this woman I love. I thought in my own ignorance that some sacrifices, even for the greatest among us, would be limited by what we all can offer, what is in us to give. There are limits, and not all sacrifices are borne equally and willingly. But, just one night ago, Niona appeared at my door, wanting to speak to Alana and me about something incredible and selfless that she asked we accept, and to forgive her previous actions. Niona is an Immortal and as an Immortal, was taught to think, act and speak as an Immortal, which she did for millennia uncounted, until she came to our aid, sent by her Master, the One True God. Knowing that I loved her and needed her, she asked permission to stay and live among us – as a mortal. She has forsaken Immortality for the sake of my love and our planet.”
The news, the chattering and whispers enthralled the crowd and began instantly.
Adam said, “Please hush and let me finish. Niona retains her powers and skills, but her life is now bound up with mine for eternity. That was the command of God. In exchange for the blessings and heartache of mortality, for a new experience of this world, she will live as I live and die when I die. Niona accepted these terms, and I have taken her as wife again with greater love and appreciation to my home along with Vera Capri and Alana McCarthy. Niona and Vera each wished to bear me children so that our offspring may continue the work we have begun long after Niona and I expire. Such love, such commitment is almost more than I can bear. It is not just for me, an imperfect fool to whom she has bound her troth, but to you and this world. It is my sorrow that we shall end our existence together, but I know our Lord God will allow us to reunite as one in the afterlife. As Niona said, we may perish, but our love will endure through all eternity. I ask that when you see Niona on the street or in our home, fear not the fierce warrior wielding a Sari blade, but rather see the gentle soul who loves us all. To our Gens brothers and sisters, her Sari hereafter defends you as it defends me. Approach my woman and love her as she loves you. Know that I will bless and remember you for your kindness shown and will carry those blessings to the world beyond.”
Fionna was disgusted, but now was not the time to make her feelings known. She would find the two idiots and share her feelings in no uncertain terms as soon as this foolish love euphoria wore off. She would reclaim her sister and Cori, and rectify this grave error in judgment. This transitory foolishness would not long endure, especially as the time drew near for her life to end with this bug.
***
As the crowd settled down, Misti once again took center stage to begin to describe her view of the present, and what the near future would bring. Everyone assembled had a role to play, and she would be giving each their tasks, the timing of each, and the work for Paraiso after Adam’s demise. There was much to be done; there were dangers to encounter and surpass, and death would come to some in the great Hall today. She would be plain and honest. She too would once again be in the line of fire.
“I have asked you to be here today to discuss the complexity of the world we confront and to organize ourselves for the challenges that will surely dominate our lives and this place we love. Everyone, and I mean everyone from our top military to the ladies who sew our clothing, are essential to our cause. I shall ask each of you to redouble your commitment to our cause and to remain faithful to that commitment until we have prevailed. I also warn you that some of us here today, including me, will be in grave danger; some will not return home. But whether I am counted in that number or not, neither I nor those warriors closest to me will shirk our duty to protect you and ideals we hold dear. If there are those among you here present who waver, cannot maintain your commitment or lack the fervor for what will be demanded in the next year and beyond, you must dig deep and find a way to connect back.”
“She paused. For those few of you who are spies for Paulo, lean toward his cause or who seek to undermine our efforts, I can promise you swift and certain justice. Today as we sit here I have asked Hecate the Immortal to enter the minds of each of you and evaluate your fidelity to our cause. Those of you who sit on the fence are to be expelled. Those of you who have infiltrated our homeland will be executed today.
Misti paused.
“I begin now, and when I am done I will begin our conversation about the challenges we face, and the tasks for which you each be responsible. Tar’s men have the lists, are stationed at each exit, and if you seek to escape, Hecate will implode your head. Go quietly and face justice.”
It took over an hour, but over one hundred infiltrators were identified. All took capture with dignity and were escorted from the Great Hall.
Misti continued, “Finally, Fionna, I ask you where your loyalties lie, and whether we can count on your skills and wisdom, or whether this is just a game in which you have no interest other than ‘research’. Adam has divorced you, and you are no longer welcome in our home, nor the City of Light. If you have no interest in us, or the outcome, I invite you to move on. You are no longer welcome.”
“My sister has gone mad. I will make every effort to change her mind and convince her to recant her insane choice.”
“You are free to do that, just not here in the City. You may remain as long as you do not undermine our efforts; make sure you are, at worst, neutral.”
“Or what? You puny insect can do nothing to me, but I can cause misery to you.”
“I know your secrets, Fionna. I can send you home in a box and will not hesitate to do so with you if you impede us or your sister in any way. I have lost patience with all of you arrogant Immortals. Help, shut up or leave; failing that I will kill you.”
“Bluster.”
“I have come into possession of the Kard of Senari and have it with me now. Would you like to test me in combat?”
“You lie.”
Misti signaled to Tar, who came on stage, handing a small bejeweled sword, and once grasped by Misti, molded instantly to her hand.
“Please, feel from to challenge me here and now. I am prepared for combat to the death.”
“You could only have received this artifact from …”
“… yes, that’s correct. It was a gift, and one upon which no restrictions were placed. That includes you.”
Wary of Misti’s instrument of death, she immediately became less belligerent and more respectful.
“I shall honor your request and stay away from my sister, and out of the City and its environs. I shall reside in Nabataea, and if my sister wishes to speak to me, please honor her request and ask her to contact me there.”
“Agreed. Now leave us; your
sight disgusts me.”
Fionna left.
Chapter 22
“I thank all of you for attending this most important meeting about the future of our project and the roles that each of you will play over the next year. We have assembled here today over one thousand representatives of the three great species, the Gens, the Nobilus and humans. On the stage with me today is Derek Nobilus, of the Nobilus Magnus and hero of the battle in Boston, having saved the lives of both Hecate the Immortal and Niona the Huntress, neither then able to defend themselves at the time.
“The importance of the contributions that each species has made to our success thus far cannot be understated. But we have so much more to do in the next six months, then in the aftermath of the fight between the Manti and Paulo Fortizi, and for the next six months afterwards before his fate is sealed and we lose him and his leadership forever. I implore you to count each day as if there is no tomorrow and redouble your efforts toward the success that we all must have. The alternative is that Liara the Creator will destroy this planet and all of us together. If we wish to see our children grow and flourish in a new world order, we have no choice but to cooperate and succeed.”
She paused.
“You may believe that once Adam, the Chosen One, vanquishes Paulo Fortizi, our troubles are over. They are not. After that day, which will come as surely as the sun rises in the east, we must plan how to bring our three species out of the shadows and work together to build our future, free from fear and anxiety that has cursed our past for millennia uncounted. With new knowledge and new abilities, the Gens no longer require water or blood to transform; they may freely elect to adopt human or Gens form.
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