Through The Fire and Flame (The Kurtherian Endgame Book 3)

by Michael Anderle

  >>Yes, Bethany Anne?<<

  Eve appeared at the door. “You called?”

  Bethany Anne placed a hand on each of her children’s Vid-docs, which right now were Alexis and Gabriel’s only hope of survival. “Find out what is hurting my babies.”

  23

  Devon, QBBS Guardian, Viewing Deck

  Sabine stood at the rail, the stars an endless expanse before her. They seemed so small, but it was she who was small.

  Where was her place in all this? The future was still uncertain. Would they stay on Devon and build the company? What if all that held the group together was their mutual love of Michael?

  And on the subject of love, would Akio ever relent and address her feelings for him? She almost hadn’t sent the letter—the one where she’d spoken about her feelings openly for the first time. She had been crying as she wrote it, knowing that this was the only way to move on with her life.

  It’s too hard to accept.

  If Sabine were honest with herself, she knew deep down that her feelings for him were unrequited, and always would be. She knew, and still she clung to them. Tim was a wildcard—an unexpected opportunity to step out of the comfort zone her fantasies about Akio had given her.

  She watched him talking to Barnabas in the reflection of the window. Was this what she wanted? A life of following a path that led nowhere?

  Or could she step beyond that and experience something real?

  She was back to feeling small and insignificant.

  Hai, Sabine. Akio’s voice came into her mind, calming as always. We are small, but we burn brightly. What troubles you?

  Sabine stared at the infinite beauty of the cosmos, seeing none of it. Today I walked around a space station with a talking dog and lost a fight with a werewolf. I came up here to spend some of the frankly obscene profits our company made from organizing a fight. She brushed her hair behind her ear, then folded her arms across her middle. You know, all the normal stuff. She sighed. When I think of how life has changed—how it is still changing—I have no control over my emotions.

  Akio walked over and joined her by the window. Is Devon not working out for you?

  Sabine sighed. Yes, I suppose it is. We’re doing well. I just… I thought things would be easier than this.

  The Japanese vampire stood with his hands clasped behind his back. Did you expect life in space to be easy?

  Not space, Sabine replied, looking at him with a wry smile. Life. I’ve been so confused. I have almost died so many times, Akio, and every time you were the one who made it better. She looked down. Did… Did you get my letter?

  Akio stiffened and stepped away. Yes, Sabine. I received the letter. But you knew when you sent it that we cannot be anything more than we already are. His expression was kind, but his voice was firm. You realize there are centuries between us?

  Sabine uttered a short, harsh laugh. “That's not the real reason. I know.”

  Akio chuckled dryly. You are a wonderful woman, and you will be dear to me forever. However, you are right. That is the issue for me–you are a woman.

  She held up a hand to reassure him. Oh, I know. You don’t like women, I got that from the start. She paused, feeling her cheeks burn with the intimacy of what she was about to say. But it wasn’t about sex. It was the feeling of security I got from you that I've been clinging to. You gave me closure on my family’s deaths, Akio. Do you understand how much that meant to me? You are my hero, and you always will be. That was why I got confused. I mean, she looked into his eyes. who could live up to you?

  Akio chuckled again, this time with feeling. I understand why you might struggle, he teased. I can think of a Guardian who might be up to the task if the video Ashur sent me is anything to go by.

  Sabine’s eyes widened, and her hand shot to her mouth. You saw that?

  Everybody has seen it, he told her matter-of-factly. It’s been playing station-wide. It’s not every day the station commander almost gets his ass handed to him by a tiny woman.

  Sabine groaned aloud, squeezing her eyes shut. I wish I hadn’t been so cocky. I should have stuck to shooting.

  Akio allowed a smile to slip out. I do not think you minded losing to Tim as much as you say.

  He was silent and still for a moment. His face became serious again as he spoke his next words, and she was surprised to feel his hand on her shoulder. Sabine, ever since the night I walked in your mind and we brought Justice for your family, I have thought of you as my only living child. Even more so when I shared my blood to keep you alive. It’s only natural that we should feel a bond. Could you bring yourself to honor me as your father?

  That didn't sound at all…bad. Sabine discovered it felt better than the contrived happy ever after she'd dreamt of. Her shoulder relaxed under Akio’s hand. I think I can. Thank you for being so patient with me. It couldn’t have been easy. She felt a weight lift. Akio watched a small tear form and fall down her face, curving across her cheek as she lifted her eyes once more, their wetness a gauge of her emotions. So we will be father and daughter?

  Akio nodded. Would you honor me as such?

  Sabine gazed into space, considering Akio’s words. The tightness she’d felt in her chest evaporated, and an honest smile of joy touched her lips. I am honored that you think of me that way. As long as I don’t lose you, I’ll be happy.

  You could never lose me, Akio told her sternly. I am proud of you. Of what you and the others are building here. He smiled down at her. You are ready for this life, whatever it brings.

  She arched an eyebrow and smirked. Even if it’s a hot Were?

  Akio stepped closer and wrapped a protective arm around her shoulders. Especially if it is a hot Were. Goodness knows there are so many of them aboard this station.

  She tucked her head into his shoulder, and together they watched the stars. I’m glad we had this talk. I’m ready, and I’m going to enjoy having dinner with Tim tonight. She tapped him on the arm. Maybe we can find you a hot Were, too. Now you’ve loosened up a little, that is.

  Sabine could have sworn Akio reacted to that, but he had himself under control before she could be sure. She squeezed him and let go. You deserve to be happy, and if I can let go of my fears, so can you.

  Akio’s eyes were tightly closed, giving nothing away. One day, Sabine.

  She smiled again, satisfied with his answer—for now. So, you already know Tim?

  Let me tell you a story about Tim, Akio said. Or better yet, let me show you. Did you ever see the video of his first real Alpha fight?

  He led her to the nearest console and pulled up the video. Tim, young and full of aggression, faced off against an even younger Peter. She listened to the speech Peter made and watched the other four contenders back down. One of the four looked familiar. Hey, that’s Rickie! What’s going on here?

  I see you have met the team clown. Akio shook his head. This was the Alpha fight that decided the Guardians’ leadership. Peter had a righteous claim that day, but Tim wouldn’t back down. He is an Alpha, so challenge is in his nature. It’s one of the most famous fights in Wechselbalg history. Tim may have lost, but he lost to the best.

  Sabine watched openmouthed as the battle between the two went on. She caught herself getting angry every time Peter landed a strike on Tim.

  The video ended and Akio spoke. You like him.

  She looked up in shock. It’s not like you to be so direct, Akio. First the hugging, and now you’re talking about my feelings?

  Akio nodded. I have never had a daughter before, but I am aware that taking care of your heart is one of my duties as a father.

  Sabine snickered. Will you defend my honor too? she asked half-jokingly.

  Akio missed the humor. Of course. Woe betide any man who hurts you, for he will have me to face.

  Emotion overwhelmed Sabine, and she looked at Akio with tear-bright eyes. Thinking to throw him an emotional curveball like he’d just done to her, she wiped her eyes and smiled. You do realize that if I get married,
you’ll have to give me away?

  That got the reaction she was looking for—Akio’s face turned to stone. Of course, he ground out. Nothing would make me happier.

  Sabine gave Akio a long hug, which he accepted, grunting with surprise as she squeezed him tightly. I’d better get back. I’ve been gone awhile. Thank you, Akio…Father. The word tasted strange.

  They would get used to it.

  You are welcome. He tapped his head and gave her a knowing smile. Just be aware that I will be checking up on anyone who shows an interest in my daughter.

  She giggled at the thought as she left him, skipping down the stairs. She paused halfway down as Akio’s meaning hit her.

  Oh shiiit, he’s going to mind read anyone I date!

  She heard the ancient vampire’s laughter drifting down the stairs after her.

  Devon, QBBS Guardian, Team Quarters

  Sabine arrived back at their temporary quarters and waited a few minutes before going over to the fridge to see what passed for basics on this station.

  She was surprised to find everything she needed to make a monster sandwich. There was bread in the cupboard above the counter. Knowing that Ricole would steal half of her sandwich if she didn’t make her one too, she automatically doubled up on everything.

  She had just poured out two glasses of what she hoped was juice when Ricole came in like a whirlwind.

  “Sabine, you won’t believe what I got! It will interface with any system. It’s one of Eve’s and it shouldn’t have been here, but I recognized that little symbol she stamps on all her creations.” Ricole drew in a heaving breath.

  “Did you run all the way here?” Sabine put the plate and juice on the table and gestured to the chair. “Come, sit and eat. Get your breath while I grab my plate, and then we can talk.”

  Demon sauntered in with her nose in the air. She turned away as she walked past Ricole to rub her face against Sabine’s hand in greeting. Ugh, you smell like dog. Is he here?

  Sabine sighed. “Why can't you and Ashur rise above it and get along?”

  I prefer to uphold tradition. Demon sniffed and jumped onto her bunk. Besides, that ass annoys me. He's so vain. She lifted a heavy paw to lick it.

  Sabine exchanged a glance with Ricole. Neither of them wanted to mention pots or kettles, but they were both thinking along similar lines.

  Sabine smirked and headed for the kitchen. “Ricole. tell me more about this wonderful purchase that's going to change our lives.”

  Ricole waved her off and made a beeline for the sandwiches. “We should wait for Jacqueline and Mark. They're on their way.”

  Sabine opened the fridge and took out a big steak, which she tossed to Demon before washing her hands. “Don't tell Mark I fed you,” she told the lion. “You know how he is about you being independent,” she finished as she dried her hands.

  Demon held up a paw. As if I would talk myself out of a source of free food. It's our secret…as long as you keep the steak coming.

  Sabine rolled her eyes and went to join Ricole at the table.

  She picked at her sandwich, her mind still turning over everything that had happened since she’d arrived on the Guardian.

  Ricole cleared her throat. “Are you going to finish that?”

  Sabine looked at Ricole blankly. “Huh?”

  Ricole indicated the mostly untouched sandwich. “You're distracted. What's going on?”

  Sabine pushed the plate over to Ricole. “It's been one of those weird days. You can have the sandwich. I have a dinner date at eight.”

  Ricole wasn't put off by the arrival of Jacqueline and Mark. “What do you mean, you have a date?” She turned to the others as they came in. “Forget my news for a minute. Sabine has a date!”

  Mark nodded and held out his hand for her to shake. “Good for you. I hope it goes well.”

  Jacqueline shoved him out of the way. “Is that all you can say?” She sighed in annoyance. “We need details! Who is your date, do we know him? Where did you meet?”

  Sabine counted her answers off on her fingers. “His name is Tim, he's a Were. I beat him on the range scenario, and then fought to a draw in the APA. I'm only having dinner with him. Don't start looking for hats.”

  Ricole frowned, obviously not understanding.

  “For the wedding,” Jacqueline explained. “The French are weird.”

  Sabine checked the time. “Can we get to whatever it is that Ricole called a meeting about?”

  Ricole grinned and got up from the table. “Sorry, I got distracted.” She retrieved a wrapped package and placed it on the table. “This is the answer to all our prayers. But first, let me tell you about the rest of my day.”

  Sabine smirked. “Oh, how did it go with your fans?”

  Ricole pointed at her. “That’s where it started, and thank you all for agreeing to employ them. After I spoke with them, I chose the market scenario and spent the day looking at what was available for order. Do you know that Devon has a trade agreement with the Federation?”

  Blank stares were all she got in answer.

  Ricole nodded. “Well, they do. It’s literally the best of both worlds here. Back to what I was saying: everywhere I went, people asked me when we would be holding another event.”

  “Us too,” Mark interjected.

  Sabine looked at them. “I think we’re starting to put down roots. But this was only supposed to be a short stay. We have a choice to make, all of us. Do we stay longer or go back as planned? How would you all feel about sticking around for a while?”

  Jacqueline made a small sound. Mark covered her hand with his. “We'd like that. We met a bunch of orphaned kids while we were out looking for a new base for the company in the First City. We'd like to help them if we can.”

  How did you meet these young ones? Demon asked. Weren't you in the business district?

  “Yeah,” Jacqueline replied, humor touching her voice. “The little…darlings tried to pick our pockets.”

  Demon looked confused. And your decision, based on their activity, is to nurture them?

  Jacqueline shrugged. “If you mean try to make it so they don't have to risk their lives robbing people just to eat, yeah.”

  Whatever. I am content as long as we are together, Demon informed them. She turned a circle and curled up to sleep. Home is where your pride is.

  Ricole bristled with energy. “So, are we doing this?” She looked from Mark to Jacqueline to Sabine and Mark again. “Settling down on Devon?”

  Jacqueline and Mark looked at each other, then nodded.

  “Looks like we have our decision,” Sabine announced. “Which means we need to think about next moves.”

  “We found a few suitable properties,” Mark supplied. “I'll arrange for viewings.”

  Ricole nodded. “Good. Now here comes the crazy part, so just hear me out, okay?” She paused a beat while they all agreed to listen. “These fights have the potential to be very profitable, but there's no industry to support the fighters. Nothing in place to make sure that they're fairly paid. It's all street-level stuff.”

  “Because the people here hate faceless organizations,” Sabine cut in. She held up her hands when Ricole glared at her. “Right, sorry.”

  Ricole shrugged. “It's a valid point. But we're not the types to sit behind closed doors while there's a fight to be had. I think they will accept us as the new face of entertainment in the city.”

  Sabine considered this as she chewed her lip. “What exactly do you mean by ‘entertainment?’”

  Ricole shrugged. “Whatever the market demands.” She stopped herself and clarified. “Well, within reason. But we start with what we know. A regular fight night will allow us build a fund for when we know what we want to expand into.”

  “And you think this will make a difference, as well as making us a shit-ton of money?” Mark quizzed. “Although making us a shit-ton of money sounds good, too. However, making a difference feels good.”

  Ricole nodded enthusiastica
lly. “For sure. We made so much from the one we hosted on the fly. A lot of the attendees were there to fight regardless of who they were fighting. But that’s not the exciting part.” She sent them all a digital copy of a bill of sale, and when their tablets pinged in unison, they pulled them up to view it. Jacqueline’s eyes opened wide.

  “I bought us a satellite network.” Ricole finished.

  24

  High Tortuga, Space Fleet Base, Michael’s Offices

  Bethany Anne paced thirty feet on one direction, turned around, then paced thirty feet in the other.

  Michael stood glued to the spot in front of the wallscreen. The camera feeds from inside Alexis’ and Gabriel’s Vid-docs occupied the split screen, with each child’s vitals displayed at the bottom of their half.

  Neither Bethany Anne nor Michael took their eyes from their children, who were both still unresponsive to treatment. The silence between them was heavy, like the air tightening before a storm.

  Bethany Anne was seething and her cheeks were stained, but she said nothing.

  Michael couldn’t let the silence drag on forever. “I hope Tabitha is okay. Today was hard on her.”

  Bethany Anne whirled, her eyes already red from crying. She raised a finger. “This is her fault! In fact, no! It’s yours for pushing them into unlocking their abilities too soon!”

  Michael’s eyes flashed red, but then his chin dropped and his anger deflated. “I know. I'm sorry.” He turned back to the screen, his face contorted with guilt. “I didn't consider the consequences, but I will fix this somehow if I have to turn the galaxy upside-down to find the answer.”

  “That kind of extreme won’t be necessary,” ADAM cut in from the speaker. “I have Alexis’ and Gabriel's test results.”

  “Tell us,” Bethany Anne spoke quickly. “What’s happening to our children?”

  “I did a thorough examination, and the issue is with the twins’ nanocytes.” ADAM paused to give Bethany Anne and Michael time to process. “The readings for activity indicate that their nanocytes are going haywire, but there is no outward manifestation to back it up. Nevertheless, this situation is inherently dangerous for them.”