Shamara

by Catherine Spangler

  Her attention shifted to the sturdy buildings, laid out in an orderly fashion, with neat pathways connecting them to each other. More trees lined the paths, along with brilliant masses of blooms. She thought it enchanting.

  "Do you like it?" Jarek asked.

  "Oh, yes. It's as beautiful as Elysia. And better, without all the crowds and the marketplace."

  He laughed. "Moriah is going to take an immediate liking to you. She masterminded the transformation of this little corner of Risa, and she's very proud of it."

  "Was this once barren like the rest of the surface?" Eirene asked in disbelief.

  "It was. But Moriah is one of those people who thinks if you dream big enough, and believe hard enough, anything is possible."

  Hearing the wistful tone in his voice, Eirene turned to look at him. "You don't believe that?"

  He was silent for a moment. "I'd like to believe it. But I've been praying for a miracle for a long time. If one doesn't happen soon, my people face extinction."

  She looked away, unsure what to say. Guilt tormented her. She'd been over the Shielders' situation repeatedly in her mind, but she knew she couldn't help Jarek. As well as the known risks of exposing herself as an Enhancer, she couldn't channel her powers with any sort of consistency. Worse, there were horrible consequences when she did try. She thought of Rayna, feeling the familiar pain and regret. No, she didn't dare attempt to use her powers.

  A landing site came into view, with a surprising array of ships lining the sizeable pad. Two people stood watching from the ground as Jarek turned on the hoverlifts and brought the ship down. He powered down and unhooked his harness and swiveled his chair toward her. "Ready?"

  Strangely enough, she was. She'd braved the world outside Travan, managed to find her way and hold her own. She'd proven to herself that she could survive the unknown.

  Standing, she smoothed down her tunic and leggings, grateful Jarek had gotten them cleaned on Elysia and returned them to her. "I'm certainly ready to get off this ship."

  As they came down the ramp, a woman and a man moved forward to greet them. The woman was stunning, tall and statuesque, with long coppery hair and golden eyes. Slightly taller, the man offered a handsome contrast, with his ebony hair and eyes. Their attention was focused on Jarek, and Eirene stepped to the side as the couple descended upon them.

  "Jarek! It's good to see you," the woman exclaimed, her voice low and melodic. "I was worried when you left Chase's ship way too soon to be recovered. But you're looking much improved over the last time I saw you." She hugged him tightly.

  "You're looking pretty good yourself." Grinning, he splayed his hand over her abdomen. "You've got that special glow."

  She shoved him away. "Cut it out! You would rub it in."

  Despite her reaction and her words, Eirene sensed the woman's genuine affection for Jarek. But her emotions had sisterly overtones, rather than carnal ones.

  The man stepped forward, his expression stern. "Yeah. I don't need any help from you, san Ranul. You always like to stir up trouble." His wide smile belied his accusing words, and he shook Jarek's hand heartily and hugged him.

  Startled, Eirene realized she could pick up none of the man's emotions, as with Jarek. Why? she wondered, studying the two men. They were about the same height, and both had similar builds—lean but well-muscled. Both had high cheekbones and well-chiseled features. Were they brothers? Or…were they both Shielders? She tucked the question away for future investigation, as Jarek turned toward her.

  "Moriah, Sabin, this is Eirene. Eirene, meet two of my best friends in the universe."

  They studied her, their expressions guarded, and she wondered what Jarek had told them. But then Moriah smiled and stepped forward, her hand outstretched. Sincere warmth and friendliness engulfed Eirene. "Welcome to Risa. If you're a friend of Jarek's, then you're part of our family."

  Eirene took her hand, and knew immediately that Moriah was a woman of valor. She sensed something else—a second life force emanating from Moriah, another soul. The woman was pregnant, which explained Jarek's teasing behavior.

  She returned Moriah's smile. "Thank you. I'm glad to be planetside. I'm not so sure space travel is for me."

  "Especially if you're cooped up with san Ranul," Sabin said. "He's far too serious, not nearly as interesting as I am."

  Moriah rolled her eyes. "Oh, please. Don't listen to him. He's full of himself."

  "As far as I can tell, all men are that way," Eirene said.

  Moriah laughed. "I like you already. I hope you'll get to stay a few cycles." She sent Jarek a questioning look.

  "That depends," he said. "I have some damage to my ship from a little run-in with Turlock. Is Radd back yet?"

  "Turlock? That son of an Antek," Sabin muttered. "Damned shame we didn't finish him off on Saron. How bad is the damage to your ship? Radd's not here. He's with Celie and Lionia, and they ran into some trouble with the Leors. They're on the way back and should arrive tomorrow or the cycle after, at the latest."

  "The damage isn't too bad, but I can't go to Aldon until the repairs are done. If you don't mind, we'll hang out here."

  "Don't be silly. We love seeing you." Moriah linked her arm with Eirene's and turned her toward the group of buildings. "I'm glad you're staying a while. We'll get quarters ready for you. You can have something to eat and drink at the main hall while you wait."

  Sabin and Jarek hung back to talk, and Moriah moved toward a large building set back from the landing pad. "Let's go meet the others."

  Eirene felt like she was being swept away in a whirlwind as Moriah led her into the largest building, that was apparently the main hall. The huge room bustled with activity. Two long tables flanked by benches lined one side of the room. The tempting aromas of cooking food wafted from an open panel behind the tables, so Eirene assumed that this was a dining area.

  Groupings of comfortable-looking chairs and smaller tables occupied the middle area, where two adults sat, watching a handful of children playing. More tables and benches lined the opposite side of the room, with some large pieces of equipment situated next to them. Cloth was piled on one of the tables. Two women were working there, apparently replicating clothing. More people were sitting at other tables.

  "This is the heart of our settlement," Moriah explained. "We eat our meals, replicate our clothing, teach the children’s lessons, and spend much of our free time here. There's a galley on the other side of that wall." She pointed to the open panel near the first set of tables. "Let me introduce you to everyone."

  Eirene first met Marna and Tyna, crusty older women who had grown tired of delivering supplies and now took care of the cooking and laundry. Then there was Roanne, a shy dark-haired woman with a stutter, and her mate, Ardon. They had two children, and Roanne replicated clothing for the settlement's inhabitants. Valene, a pleasant young woman, assisted Roanne with the clothing production.

  No hostile or anxious emotions bombarded Eirene. All the women radiated well-being and contentment. Their feelings toward Eirene were welcoming and warm. They appeared to know Jarek well, emitting excitement and pleasure that he had come for a visit.

  An elderly man and woman sat in two of the overstuffed chairs in the room's center. They were apparently in charge of keeping an eye on the four active children playing nearby. Even through the moderate emotional melee in the room, Eirene sensed a commanding power in the old woman as Moriah led her to the couple.

  The woman raised clear gray eyes as they approached. Her gaze locked on Eirene. She felt a strong surge of energy reaching out and engulfing her, but it was well controlled, almost muted.

  "Janaye, this is Eirene. She's traveling with Jarek san Ranul, and will be our guest for a few days," Moriah said. "Eirene, this is Janaye. She's our beloved matriarch. Just don't cross paths with her, or that yarton club she carries might accidentally connect with your head."

  "Go on with you!" Chuckling, Janaye held out a hand gnarled with age. "Pleased to meet you, chi
ld."

  Eirene gently took the crippled hand and returned the woman's perusal. Janaye's snowy hair was gathered into a loose, silky bun, the escaping wisps framing her lined face. Despite her years, her eyes were sharp and wise. She was so like Rayna, tears pooled in Eirene's eyes, and emotion clogged her throat. She had to clear it before she could speak. "Lady Janaye."

  "Just Janaye, my dear. I'm so old, the title has worn off." Janaye smiled warmly and Eirene returned the smile. Janaye turned to Moriah. "I can tell this child is weary. Pull up a chair so she can sit and rest."

  Moriah laughed good-naturedly. "I will do that. But first, let me introduce her to our other elder." She gestured to the old man in the chair next to Janaye's. "This is Elder Gabe. He's from Jarek's home colony, and he's graciously offered to help us create a tracking and defense system for Risa."

  "I thought his mission was to pester me," Janaye scoffed. He spends more time in his chair than at that command center you built."

  "Don't need to spend much time at the center, Jannie," the old man retorted. "I can work circles around these young starsnappers." He offered Eirene his hand. "Greetings, young lady. My, you're a looker. I'm allowed to say that 'cause I'm too old to do anything about it."

  "You're too old to do anything," Janaye interjected tartly.

  "Eh, what's that? I can't hear a thing you say, woman!"

  Thoroughly charmed, Eirene took his hand. "It's nice to meet you, Elder Gabe."

  "Would suit me fine if you'd call me Gabe." He gestured to the chair Moriah pulled up. "Sit down and make an old man happy."

  Eirene sank gratefully into the chair. Already tiring, she let the emotions of the group drift over her. The children put out a different sort of energy from the adults, one that was exuberant and innocent, without any real fear or concerns.

  She could also sense the feelings of all the women in the room, with the exception of Janaye. She wasn't surprised by Janaye's ability to block, because of the woman's obvious psychic power. Now she had to worry about Janaye discerning the truth about her being an Enhancer. She'd have to guard her own energies very carefully around the astute old woman, assuming she could.

  The odd thing was she couldn't sense anything from the two men in the room. She knew it wasn't a male/female discrepancy, because she'd always been able to read the men on Travan; had picked up on many males on Saron and Elysia.

  It might somehow be related to the Shielder race, only Eirene didn't know for a fact that all the men on Risa were Shielders. She didn't dare ask, because from what Jarek had told her, Shielders didn't usually reveal their identities to outsiders. It was too dangerous, just as it was for Enhancers.

  Janaye reached over and took her hand. "Tell me, child, where are you from?"

  Eirene felt the power subtly probing. What could she say, without giving away information or making Janaye suspicious? She struggled to come up with an answer, but was saved by Jarek’s and Sabin's entrance.

  Jarek's arrival created quite a stir. Everyone but Janaye and Gabe rushed to greet him. The women hugged him and fussed over him, while Ardon shook his hand and slapped him on the back. Even the children vied for his attention, tugging on his flightsuit until he swung each of them up in the air, amid squeals of delight.

  He looked so different here, laughing with Tyna and Marna, smiling broadly as he teased the children. He seemed younger, happier, as if he'd forgotten his burdens for a brief time. His flashing smile and the sparkle in his eyes made him look even more handsome.

  Eirene couldn't help but stare. She'd sensed his power and fortitude, but hadn’t comprehended how truly dynamic and charismatic he was. Here, the force of his presence lit up the hall, and everyone gravitated toward him. He was a true leader, she realized, with the heart and soul and courage to inspire others to follow.

  "Impressive, isn't he?" Janaye murmured.

  Startled, Eirene turned to see those discerning gray eyes fixed on her. "Yes, he is," she answered honestly, suspecting it was futile to deny the truth to Janaye.

  Janaye looked at Jarek. "He's destined for greatness, that one. The stars were aligned with providence the day he was born."

  Eirene could easily believe that Jarek would achieve monumental things, but she knew she wasn't the one to help him reach those heights of greatness. Her powers were worthless—even dangerous—as long as she couldn't handle them.

  Jarek strode toward them, and her breath caught. She tried to ignore her reaction to him, reminding herself the only reason she was with him was because he had kidnapped her. He stopped by Janaye's chair and leaned down to kiss her. "Ah, here's my favorite lady. I'll bet you've been flirting with all the men, breaking their hearts."

  "Jarek, you charmer. I can understand why mothers hide their daughters when you come around." Janaye beamed at him with genuine affection. "You're looking good, young man. When are you going to settle down and give this old woman more children to love?"

  "Maybe when mothers stop hiding their daughters," he teased and squatted beside her. "How are you feeling?" He took both her hands in his, serious now. "Did the medicine Chase sent help any?"

  She shrugged away his concern. "Some. I'm just old. My journey on this plane is winding down."

  "We'd like to keep you around a while longer. So you take care, okay?" He pressed his hand against her face and rose to greet Gabe.

  Gabe pushed to his feet and gave Jarek a big hug. "Good to see you, boy. Sad news about your father. He was a good man—damn good!"

  Eirene started at this news. When had Jarek lost his father? She watched him and saw the shadow cross his face, the sadness that filled his dark eyes.

  "Yeah, he was a good man," he said. "But in a way, I'm glad he won't be around to see what's coming."

  Gabe's brow furrowed. "Don't tell me it's gotten worse. Blazing hells! How much more can we take?"

  "Not much. But I've got a plan, sir. I'm hoping we can discuss it while I'm on Risa. I'd like your input."

  Gabe beamed with pride. "Of course, Captain. I haven't planned any tactical maneuvers in a while, but I'd love to hear what you have in mind. You're a fine military commander. We're damn lucky to have you taking up where your father left off."

  Jarek shook his head. "I'm not so sure about that, Elder. If my ideas don't work, I fear for our survival."

  He now looked exhausted. Eirene knew he hadn't gotten much sleep during the trip from Elysia to Risa. He'd remained in the cockpit most of the time, on the lookout for more attacks. A surprising concern gnawed at her. Impulsively, she stood and pushed another chair into the circle, next to her own. "Here," she offered. "Why don't you sit down?"

  He flashed her a startled look, then nodded gratefully. "Thank you." He sank into the chair, absently rubbing his right arm.

  She knew the laser wound still hurt him. She'd put a fresh bandage on it this morning. It was healing, but still tender. Yet he'd managed to toss squealing, excited children into the air. She wondered if he ever put his own needs first.

  "I see you've met Eirene." He reached out, placing his hand on her arm. "I'm hoping she'll help us with my most crucial plan."

  She clenched her hands in her lap. He didn't play fair. He was as relentless as the sun's rays beating down on Travan's caked ground. She couldn't help him. Spirit, she hated being torn like this; hated her incompetence. But there was more than just the fact she couldn't control her powers. If the knowledge she was an Enhancer got out, it could only lead to one thing: a living hell in the clutches of the Controllers or some other faction just as evil.

  "Yes," Janaye said slowly, catching everyone's attention. She stared straight ahead, seemingly at nothing, her eyes unfocused. "Eirene has her own special destiny to fulfill."

  Eirene turned from Janaye to find Jarek staring at her, determination heating his eyes. Great. Already, he was swaying Janaye to his side. Weary of the emotional tug-of-war, she stood. "I'd like to go to my quarters now."

  "The evening meal is ready," Moriah announced from t
he galley. "Come on, everyone."

  The children shrieked their approval and raced for the tables, the adults following at a more leisurely pace. Gabe and Jarek helped Janaye to her feet. Leaning heavily on her thick yarton cane, she laboriously made her way to the tables, Gabe at her side.

  Her chest tight with frustration, Eirene turned away, but Jarek caught her arm. She whirled, longing to inflict bodily damage upon him. Her fierce reaction startled her; she'd never been a violent person. "Let me go."

  "I'm simply escorting you to the meal."

  She couldn't sense his thoughts or feelings. Why then, did she have such strong emotional and physical reactions to him? She took the offensive, knowing no other way to defend herself against him. "I don't want you telling these people I'm working with you. What does it take to get the truth through your thick head? I can't help you!"

  "Come on," he said quietly, ignoring her outburst and tugging her toward the tables. "Tyna and Marna are much better cooks than I am. And these are special people. You'll enjoy sharing this meal with them."

  She was hungry, and Jarek's skill in the galley was limited to only a few dishes. Giving in, she allowed him to lead her to a table. Dishes clattered and jovial voices filled the air as food was passed and the plates were filled. Then, at Janaye's command, a hush fell over the room, and she thanked Spirit for blessing them with food. The hubbub of voices resumed, and everyone dug in.

  The food was simple, but good: fresh bread, cheese, and an assortment of vegetables. Eirene ate slowly, too intrigued by the social dynamics of the group to pay much attention to what was on her plate. The relaxed atmosphere and easy bantering between the men and women amazed her the most.

  On Travan, there had been total segregation between males and females, except when the men visited the women's compound to appease their sexual urges. The men ate in their opulent dining hall, their food prepared by the women. After the men were seen to, the women gathered in small groups in their drafty tents and shared a much plainer fare than the men enjoyed.