The Waterbear rears up, its claws engaging for a fatal swipe.
In an instant, I know if I don’t do something—if I don’t act immediately—this will be the beginning all over again.
Racing forward, I reach out mentally to the Waterbears—letting them know to stand down. I use whatever form of persuasion I can, sending memories of Tethys, myself, and my friends. At the same time, I push out my gifts as far as I can—doing for Landry and Fenton what I did to Trae before. Only this time, I have to do it from meters away.
I gift them the sight.
The men recoil, blinking away the surprise of being able to see the Waterbear herd in all their glory. The shock is enough to stop the entanglement, as they scramble backward.
The male snorts, glancing briefly toward me, before leaving the men to check on the cubs. No longer interested in a fight.
“Who are—” Fenton begins. “What are—”
Before he can say the rest, I’m consumed again by the intense white light—I’m back in the mix of it all and no longer a part of history. I meld with the restructuring of time, allowing it to do it’s magic on me as well—changing whatever necessary—and allowing me to keep the rest.
As the light pulls back again, I open my eyes and find myself sitting against the Tree of Burden.
With one simple, phenomenal change.
No longer are the trees completely barren. Or the woods filled with mountains of snow. Tiny buds unfurl from the branches—little bursts of green and gold.
At the base of the trees, large circles of brown grass is matted to the ground, with tiny green shoots making their way to the surface. From everywhere the eyes can see, unfurling from beneath the snowy blankets are thousands of white flowers. Their five petals tilt up toward the sunlight. The beautiful sun no longer locked in the sky, but currently located high up in the distance on the opposite side from where it had always been.
We did it. I did it.
Whatever may come now, whatever may be—it could only be made possible through these acts of rebellion and…revolutions.
24
Traeton
WALKING THE GROUNDS OF THE ACROPOLIS, I’m still amazed at the sheer number of flowers blooming here. I’ve seen so many seasons come and go, but these hardy little white petals refuse to fade. Something about them has always impressed me. Maybe it’s their hardiness. Or maybe even their iridescent colors. They just have a special kinda power rolling off of them.
I bend down, plucking one from the ground. I’m not sure why, but they’ve always seemed oddly familiar to me. I’ve lived here for the past five years, so you’d think it would be that. Hell, maybe it is—but it doesn’t feel like it.
Keeping the flower pinched between my fingers, I continue to walk the grounds. The enormous trees sway in the breeze, their leaves gently tossing aside to allow the midday sunlight to stream through the branches.
Who would have thought humans would ever have been so lucky to find this place? Pendomus is like a heavenly variation of what Earth had become. I’m still so grateful, every single day my family decided to take the risk of coming here. Who knows what would have happened to the four of us if we woulda stayed. We’d probably all be dead.
Among the trees, birds flit in and out. Little gray things we call Juncos because they remind us of the birds we had back home. But they call themselves AirGliders.
The grass out here is so green and the little white flowers definitely contrast against it.
“Though’ I migh’ find ya ou’ here,” Fenton says, coming up from behind me.
“You know me. There’s something about being out here. It’s not something I’m able to take for granted,” I say.
“True dat,” Fenton nods, then takes his yellow glasses off to clean them.
“Where have you been, anyway?” I ask, pushing him in the shoulder. “I thought you said we were going to go exploring again today. Did you and Kani get lost in your bedroom again?”
I laugh, knowing it’s probably true. The two of them are practically inseparable. I’d never have pictured the two of them as a couple, but yet, here they are. Honestly, they’re a good match until you have to listen to one of them going on about their prospective professions. If I have to hear one more talk about the sterilization of scalpels or how to tie in a mainframe to the planet’s soul—I think I might puke.
“Well, as a matter o’ fact, there mighta been some of tha’ going on. When are you gonna put yerself ou’ there an’ find someone to smooch up to?” Fenton laughs, making a kissy face.
I roll my eyes.
“Not all of us are as obsessed as you are with the opposite sex,” I say, chuckling.
“Sure, sure. Yer jus’ repressed. Wha’ ya need is a good romp wit—”
“Gentlemen,” Delaney says as she approaches.
Fenton clams up, knowing his jab at my non-existent sex life was just ruined by the appearance of Delaney. Internally, I’ve never been more thankful to see her. Knowing Fenton, our entire conversation would deteriorate into a lesson on dating.
“Hi Lane, what’s up?” I ask, turning from Fenton’s disappointed face.
“Beautiful day, isn’t it?” she says, deflecting.
“Lane,” I warn.
“Alright, I need your help, Trae. Do you have a moment?” she says, eyeing Fenton.
Both she and I like to keep my arrangements with her separate from my ordinary life. While it’s sorta a job, it’s not at the same time. So it’s nice to keep it all in separate baskets.
Fenton gives her a once over, raising an eyebrow and pursing his lips.
Lane’s dark skin contrasts the cream colored top she has on today. It gives her a regal appearance, especially with the way she piles her dark curls on her head. The air about her is all business and I know better than to turn her away.
“Sure, whatcha need?” I finally respond.
I shoot Fenton an ‘I’ll come find you’ glance and continue to walk with her. Fenton takes the hint and turns stiffly on his heels. He raises a hand in the air, flicking me off as he heads back toward the Acropolis.
I can’t help but grin.
“Yep, tha’s fine. Wan’ed more SEX, anyway,” he mumbles as he heads off.
Delaney watches him depart and waits until he’s out of earshot before she smirks at me and shakes her head.
“He’s never going to let you live alone, you know. He might be right. Get out and date once in a while,” Lane says.
“Not you, too. C’mon Lane. Get to why you came out here to find me,” I say, rolling my eyes.
“Alight,” she nods, “Traeton, I know you’ve been at a bit of a loss lately. The Pillars and I need some help and I’m wondering if you’d be interested in an adventure,” she begins. “Humans have been here for a while now and we’re ready to expand our reach. We’re interested in scouting out more of Pendomus and I think you’d be a good fit for this type of mission,” she says. “You’ve never shied away from getting involved in the larger picture. I’m hoping I’ll be able to count on you now.”
I consider her words for a moment. This could be the exact change of pace, I need. Leaving the confines of our encampment here could be amazing. As much as I love it here—who knows what’s out there. Exploring our boundaries has been an interest of mine, that’s for sure.
“How long are you thinking the mission would last?” I ask, considering my sisters. I’ve never been away longer than a few days at a time. Though I’m no longer living with them, we’re still so close.
Delaney shrugs.
“However long it takes. Could be days, or months. Honestly, it’s really up to you. We’re just wanting to learn more about what’s beyond this place. We need topographical maps created and I can get you the equipment you need. Of course, Ash could go with you. Or perhaps I could find a lady friend?” she says, smiling.
I lower my eyebrows.
“Think about it. I’ll get back to you in a couple of days. Sound good?” she says.
I nod, “Sure, Lane. I’ll think about it. Might be fun.”
“Excellent,” she says, nodding back.
With that, she pats me on the back and continues on her way.
I walk away, my thoughts swirling around my new choice.
Who wouldn’t love to explore more of Pendomus?
I’d be a fool if I said the thought wasn’t utterly enticing. I’ve been hanging around Fenton on and off for nearly three years now and he’ll manage just fine without me. Besides, he and Kani have their thing going now. They need a third wheel about as much as I need to be one. That’s probably why he’s been trying so hard to hook me up with random women. He wants the flat all to himself.
Maybe this could be for the best? It’s not like I’d be gone forever.
Then again, my sisters won’t like it—but they’ll have to learn to live with it. Especially Ava. They’re both getting older now and with my parents working with the Council, it’s not like they don’t have plenty of people to talk to.
I continue my walk, taking in the sights and enjoying the way the AirGliders flitter back and forth through the trees. Their chirping is cheerful as they follow me on my path. Fenton would never have let me take in the sights and sounds this way. He would have been talking the entire time, so I guess it’s kinda a godsend that Lane interrupted.
Twirling the flower between my fingertips, I catch myself smiling. This day has turned out far better than I anticipated. New adventures on the horizon and all that.
Maybe this is the very reason I haven’t found someone for me. Going on this mission, traveling the world. Who could do that sorta thing with someone left behind? I know for damn sure, I couldn’t keep my mind in the game if that was the case. It would be too much.
I pass a large tree with wide, open branches that look like they could wrap around you with a massive embrace. Many of the trees here are ancient—far older than most of the trees that existed back on Earth. From what I hear, they’re millennia old.
Walking up to the edge of the large stream that runs the circumference of the Acropolis, I take a seat on the grass and cross my legs. I unfold the small snack I’d packed and look out over the water. There’s something calming in the effect—watching the sunlight glitter across its moving surface.
“Alright, Trae—so what do you think? Should I go, or should I stay?” I say out loud.
A small junco flitters down from one of the trees, and begins to scritch in the dirt beside me. Its white beak pecking for something I can’t see.
“Hunting for the unknown,” I say, “Good idea, little guy. Head out on the trip it is.”
Of course it was going to go that way.
“Hey, mind if I join you?” Landry says, walking up beside me.
His bald head reflects the sunlight and I shield my eyes.
“Suit yourself,” I say, motioning to the spot next to me.
“Alright, so Lane just told me she let you in on the adventure. Whatcha thinking? You haven’t told Fenton yet, have you?” he asks.
I shake my head, “No, just talked with her thirty seconds ago. Why?”
“Well, I don’t want to spoil anything, but I think Fenton might take it kinda hard. He considers you to be like a brother, Trae. You know that,” he says.
I snicker, “Sure, but it’s not like I won’t be back. He’s not gonna care. He and Kani—”
“Are pregnant,” Landry finishes.
“Say—say that again?” I say, my mouth dropping open.
“Yeah, he doesn’t know yet. Kani asked me to keep it quiet for a few days while she figures out the best way to break the news. But, I thought you better know before you make a decision. He’s gonna want someone to lean on, I think.”
I blink my eyes, my mind suddenly flooded with images of Fenton changing nappies and running after kids. It’s scary, and oddly appropriate. He’s like a gigantic kid himself.
“Wow,” I say.
“I know. Crazy, right? I’m going to be an uncle,” Landry nods, a satisfied sort of sigh escaping his lips.
“You’re actually happy about this, aren’t you?” I say.
“Well, yeah. Then Liana will have someone in the family to play with. I mean, unless Alina and I end up having another. I suppose that could happen. She’s already hinting at it,” Landry says, shrugging.
“What? Lia’s only a year old. How can Alina already want another? Doesn’t she realize all the kid does is eat, poo, and sleep?” I say, chuckling.
“Women, man. Who knows? Something about how she misses the ‘baby phase’ now that Lia’s walking and chucking her food at the walls. I don’t see it,” he says, grinning.
“Sure. Whatever, man. I see it in your face. You’re totally on board,” I snicker, shaking my head.
“Seriously, though. I never knew how awesome being a parent was going to be. How fulfilling and amazing. I hope one day you’ll know what that feels like, Trae.”
My eyebrows raise, and I shake my head. I can’t say I’ve given it any thought whatsoever. Kids? Me? I’ve got enough on my plate just keeping Fenton out of trouble. And now—with a miniature Fenton on the way, things are about to get far more interesting.
“I don’t know. Not ruling it out, but I just don’t see it happening. At least, not any time soon,” I say. “But I’m more than happy to support all of you. Just call me uncle Trae.”
“Speaking of which—think you could babysit tonight?” Landry asks, a big cheshire grin spreading across his lips.
“Yeah, sure,” I say, my eyes attempting to roll around in their sockets. “You Tabet men think you’re so clever. Don’t think I don’t know the manipulation techniques you’re applying here.”
Landry holds a hand to his chest in mock surprise.
“Why, Traeton Revasco, I have no idea what you’re talking about.Whatever do you mean?” he says, blinking his eyes innocently.
“Yeah, yeah. Get outta here before I change my mind. I wanna spend a few hours in solace before getting covered in baby food and juice—while you and Alina have a nice night out,” I say, smiling.
Landry stands up and pats my shoulder.
“Thanks, man. See ya at seven.”
He walks away, knowing better than to say anything else. Just in case I change my mind.
I inhale deeply, taking a bite of my apple.
Wow. Fenton and Kani are pregnant, too. It’s happening all around me. There must be something in the air. In my left hand, I twirl the everblossom again, watching it spin.
Circle of life, I guess. Good for them.
This doesn’t change anything though, if anything, it makes more sense than before to take Delaney up on her offer. They’ll want to use my room as a nursery. I’ll go, explore, and find another place to stay when I get back. Simple.
With my mind made up, I finish my apple and chuck the core into the stream. One of the animals will enjoy the rest of it.
Pushing up to a stand, I walk the stream, straying further from the Acropolis. Out this way, it’s usually so peaceful because only a handful of others will venture this far. Human curiosity only goes so far for some people, I suppose.
The light filters in just right, bouncing up from the floor of the stream, allowing me to see a small herd of Waterbears walking slowly, along the water’s edge. Because of their iridescence, they can be hard to spot. They’ve got a tendency to blend into their surroundings with a natural camouflage, but they never travel far from water. Thus their name, I suppose. They’re beautiful creatures and so unique. Nothing like them ever existed on Earth. Well, not that I know of, anyway.
Smiling, I follow the stream, watching the sunlight sparkle on the moving water. The stream itself weaves gently in and out of trees, meandering its way through the forest before looping back around to the base of the Acropolis.
As I continue walking, I notice a shoulder poking out from behind a tree. A young woman is sitting at the base of one of the more enormous trees. Surprised to see another person thi
s far out, I walk toward her. I’m curious to know who she is and why she’s willing to travel so far from the beauty of the Acropolis’ courtyard.
“I’m going to head back. See you at home?”
A young man, roughly the same age as the woman stands up and begins to walk away. His hair is the same color as the woman’s and their features are extremely similar as well—clearly siblings.
“Okay, Ammon. See you at home,” she says. “Tell Dad I’ll be there in time for dinner.”
The young man nods, and then spots me. He tilts his head, and quirks an eyebrow, but continues walking, clearly unfazed. Guess I’m not too threatening holding my lunch sack.
The young woman sits still, her head down as she flips pages of a large book in her lap. The tree behind her has an aura all its own. The massive branches extend outward in all directions, with beautiful leaves of green, gold, and red. The dark trunk enhances the contrast of her light hair. It’s so light it’s practically white. Woven into the braids on the side of her head are bright purple strands of hair.
Nice.
I thought I was the only one these days who liked the more unusual colors for hair. Instinctively, I run my hand through the darn brown tuft at the top of my head.
I continue to follow the stream, throwing glances toward the girl. I don’t know what it is about her that keeps drawing my attention. She’s completely engrossed in her book—not once has she even looked up. The girl also has an aura around her, not at all unlike the regal stature of Delaney, or the subtle energy of the Waterbears. It’s a gentle power, if such a thing exists.
Unable to help myself, I deviate from my course along the stream and make my way to her. As I get closer, I catch the iridescent light of a lone Waterbear sitting by her side.
The mysterious girl looks up at me, setting the book down in her lap. She gasps and her mouth drops open with a sense of surprise. She recovers quickly, though, setting the book aside and standing up.
The Complete Pendomus Chronicles Trilogy: Books 1-3 of the Pendomus Chronicles Dystopian Scifi Boxed Set Series Page 72