For a few seconds Cathy didn't know what to answer. Did she? She knew Eqin's life was at stake, and that was really all that mattered. She was about to respond when the old woman over-rode her:
You will not intervene in any way. That is an order.
Anya suddenly spoke in Eqin's defence, reminding Atuk gently,
He has rescued Cathy ... . Cathy noticed that their gaze met as if sharing a secret connection.
But the ancient woman remained resolute. We cannot risk it. He caused his own demise.
He would be useful to us. He has great knowledge of the Algidan Council, given that his grandfather was a member, Anya insisted.
Cathy sensed a weakening in Atuk's resolve. Damn, Anya was good. But it wasn't enough.
Quiet! I will hear no more of this. You will follow my orders.
Cathy pursed her lips rebelliously. I will not.
But she'd underestimated Atuk's wrath. The next moment a gigantic ball of fire erupted next to where she was standing. Startled, she jumped aside like a scalded cat.
For a moment, she was gobsmacked, uncertain how to react to the violent outburst, but then she pushed out her chin in defiance.
If you think that you're going to intimidate me into following your stupid orders, you're mistaken. I will not sacrifice any life for any reason, and I don't care what you think about that. I will do what I believe is right.
You will do as I say!
No, I will not! I will NOT sacrifice Eqin's life for your need to take revenge!
Atuk stared at her for a few moments. Cathy could see she was seething, but at that moment, she couldn't care. No-one would intimidate her to do what they wanted her to do. Not even this ancient woman who seemed like she could teach the younger ones a thing or two. She'd had enough.
As if reading her thoughts, Atuk seemed to relent. Very well. We will attempt to save Eqin's life, but in return, I expect you to take your rightful place as my daughter.
Fine, she agreed without thinking, but only if we save his life.
It is done, then. Atuk looked sharply at her with her dark eyes. On your return you will take your place as my daughter.
Suddenly, it sank in what she had just agreed to. She'd just signed away her own life in order to save Eqin's. How could she have fallen into that trap?
* * * *
After they had left Atuk's hall, Anya could hardly contain herself. “What were you thinking? Do you know how close you came to being obliterated?"
Cathy looked at her blankly. “Atuk would never hurt me."
“You are mistaken. Atuk is dangerous. How do you think her essence has survived this long? Last year she killed two Caretakers whom she suspected of having betrayed her."
“And did they?” Cathy asked.
“That is not the point. She could have killed you,” Anya said, frowning. She grabbed Cathy's arm. “You have to give me your word that you will not cross her like that again. Please."
Cathy looked at her flabbergasted. Why was Anya so adamant she should be more respectful? She suddenly felt extremely tired. The day had been much more eventful than she'd envisioned.
Walking through the courtyard, she suddenly remembered her meeting the night before.
“I met the strangest person last night..."
“Last night? You were out last night?"
Cathy glanced at her sideways. “Yes ... So?"
“You were supposed to stay inside. It places you in unnecessary danger. There are many creatures out on the hunt at night."
“Well, thanks for telling me now. I found that out last night. If it hadn't been for the Caretaker..."
Anya puckered her brow. “Which Caretaker? No-one goes out at night."
“Well, this one did. He said he comes from Stogalea."
“Stogalea?” Anya seemed momentarily confused. “Oh yes, the Planet of Storms. A very harsh planet. Yes, that would be Karu. He is the only one who goes out at night."
“Who is he?"
Anya shrugged her shoulders. “I have not met him—few of us have. He keeps mostly to himself; moves around at night when the rest of us are sleeping. I do not think he lives in the Sanctuary."
“Really? He seems ... different."
“How so?"
“I don't know. He's different to the Krinians—he's rougher, tougher and a bit ... uncultivated. Almost like...” She was trying to find the right word but it escaped her. How would one describe him?
“...An untamed animal?” Anya suggested helpfully.
“I guess."
“Perhaps it would be better to stay away from him. I have heard that he is ... um ... reluctant ... to submit to the Caretakers’ rules,” Anya advised quietly.
“That sounds familiar. He's certainly in good company."
“Speak for yourself."
The last comment passed over Cathy's head. What was a creature like Karu doing at the Sanctuary?
She had a strong feeling she would meet him again.
* * * *
The following days were tough on Cathy. Atuk had felt it necessary to assign some of the Sanctuary's Caretakers the arduous task to instruct Cathy about the Antediluvian ways. Although she found their lessons interesting, she was frustrated with their alien way of thinking, and she had to admit to herself that she had no intention of following their way of life. She'd begun her life as a human and, despite everything that had happened, and whatever may happen, she'd retain her human values.
It didn't take the equally frustrated Caretakers long to label her as a rogue although they didn't express their concerns openly. She was, after all, the Chosen One. But she was aware of their thoughts nevertheless, although it didn't worry her too much. Her stay was temporary—no matter what she'd promised the ancient woman. Once Eqin was safe, she would return to Earth ... somehow.
Most of all, though, she despised the Sage's training. She hated the way he forever reflected what she asked or said without giving any clear answers, and she thought of every possible excuse not to attend the lessons. He didn't seem to mind, although she was convinced her training seemed to get harder every time she missed a session. When she wasn't in his presence, she thought about what Anya had said—that he was what she wanted him to be. It frustrated her that she couldn't reach into his mind, and she wondered how accurate Anya had been. Moreover, she had a sense that she'd met him before.
Anya was gone most of the time, leaving her to her own devices. She knew the younger woman was up to something, but she couldn't be sure. Whatever it was, she was probably fulfilling Atuk's orders.
Karu intrigued her, and she felt compelled to learn more about him. She'd waited several evenings for him, hoping to see him, but she'd been unsuccessful. The night before Eqin's Judgement Day, she sat hidden just outside her room, waiting for him. It was a long wait and she'd almost given up hope when she heard the shrill cry of the creatures she encountered the first night. She quietly watched as they circled the brilliant night sky, and wondered if they'd seen their prey. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw someone move and turned her head carefully so as not to attract attention. One of the creatures came swooping down and she felt her heart miss a beat. She wanted to jump up and warn him, but when he looked up unperturbed, she felt compelled to watch.
The volucris settled on the fountain in the middle of the courtyard. The person walked up to it without any obvious apprehension and held out its hand. She watched with baited breath. It was as if a silent conversation was taking place between the two creatures. Several other volucri came swooping down and surrounded the person in the grey robes. She could sense that there was no fear and no hostility between them.
After what felt like an eternity, they flew away, leaving the person standing alone in the darkened courtyard. Unaware of her presence, he stood watching them as they circled the night sky. Then, with a single movement, he jumped across the courtyard wall and she knew for certain that it had been Karu. She'd seen him scale that same wall once before.
The incident left her confused. Why had they attacked her when they were evidently friendly with him? She pulled her hand through her long blond hair. There was so much going on here of which she understood little. What had she gotten herself into? She got up and went to her room, but sleep evaded her. She was haunted by visions she believed were something of the past.
She saw herself running—running as fast as she could away from the chaos behind her. She could hear the screaming of dying people and smelt the burning flesh. Stopping, she sank to her knees, covering her ears, but she could still hear them. God, those screams...
Suddenly she was back in her room, staring into the darkness, and she closed her eyes. Would the dreams never stop?
After a long time, she slowly fell asleep.
* * * *
Just after dawn the next day, Anya came to inform her that Atuk required their presence. Still half-asleep, she went as had been requested.
The hall was empty as always when they arrived, and both women went to the middle of the massive structure to wait. Within seconds, Atuk was there with a question.
Are our people ready, Anya?
Anya nodded respectfully. Yes, Atuk. As ready as they can be, given the little time we had to prepare.
Good. Atuk turned to Cathy. You will remain here.
Cathy frowned. Why?
You are not yet ready. The Caretakers have indicated that you are learning slowly and that there is much that they still need to teach you. There was sternness in Atuk's words. You will be a burden if you go.
Cathy lifted her eyebrows, but Anya replied quickly on her behalf:
Yes, Atuk, we will do as you say.
She anxiously grabbed Cathy by the arm and dragged her out of the hall before she could argue.
Once outside, Cathy turned towards Anya. “What was that for? I wasn't done yet."
“Oh yes, you were. Did you not hear a word I have said? Atuk is dangerous when she loses her temper."
“Why would she lose her temper?"
“You were going to argue with her."
Cathy didn't say anything. Yes, she was going to express her disagreement—that's what she'd always done. The thought that it would aggravate Atuk had never crossed her mind. Surely, the ancient woman would be able to handle some difference of opinion?
As they walked down the elaborately decorated hallway, she mused about the very brief discussion in Atuk's hall. Who were the ‘our people’ they referred to? Somehow, she doubted they were referring to the Caretakers.
“To whom was she referring?"
“Who?"
“'Our people'."
“It's difficult to explain. Come, let me show you.” Anya pulled her along in a direction where she hadn't yet been. Reaching the opposite side of the courtyard, Anya waved her hand and a massive gateway appeared. She motioned to Cathy to walk with her.
The scene that met them took Cathy's breath away. Never in a million years had she expected this—and it was right under her nose all the time.
In the centre of the colossal amphitheatre were hundreds of uniformed men and women training in the arts of hand and weapon combat. She watched in awe as they carefully practised their moves over and over until they were smoothly and perfectly executed. A number of people dressed in blue uniforms and blue capes were moving among them, and she surmised that they were instructors.
She was speechless. So, the peacefulness of the Sanctuary was only an illusion—exactly as Anya had insinuated the first day she arrived there. Hidden underneath the apparent peacefulness was an army-like force that was close to being deployed. She wondered if the Algidans had any inkling of what was going on at the Sanctuary. If they knew, would they tolerate it? Surely, they wouldn't take kindly to having a force like that on their doorstep.
She glanced at Anya. “Who are these people?"
“They are our people. They are the Resistance,” Anya answered proudly.
“So all this—this peace and quiet—is just a smokescreen? You're training an army here?"
“Yes."
Cathy looked out over the amphitheatre. One of the instructors had noticed them, and walked up to where they were standing. He gave Cathy's grey capes a quick up and down before addressing Anya. “Your Grace, would you like to show the students how it's done?"
Anya smiled and nodded. She removed her cape, and for the first time Cathy saw what she'd been wearing underneath—the blue uniform of the Resistance.
She watched with interest as Anya and the instructor engaged in hand-to-hand combat, and felt her respect for the other woman rise. Not only was Anya clearly an excellent combatant, but she was also much faster and surer than the instructor. It was a sheer pleasure watching her move. She was like a graceful ballerina, but there was a speed and strength in her movements that took Cathy by surprise. Anya's smaller frame belied her abilities. She was good. Very good.
Their combat attracted the attention of a number of students who watched attentively. When Anya finally overpowered the instructor, they cheered with admiration. Cathy smiled. Anya was clearly well liked and loved, despite her disfigured features.
She watched as Anya held out her hand and helped the defeated instructor up. She could sense no hostility from him. It was as if he'd expected it. The two exchanged a few friendly words before Anya returned to Cathy.
Cathy nodded at her. “You're good. I'd like you to teach me some time."
“Thank you. My father taught me.” She put her cape back on, then covered her face again. “Now will you follow Atuk's orders?"
Cathy avoided her eyes, trying to keep her face expressionless. She would have liked to agree that she would follow orders, but she knew it would be a lie. She'd never been strong at following any instructions, and after a moment of hesitation, she admitted, “No, I won't."
Anya didn't seem surprised. It was as if she'd expected her answer. She turned her head away, and tucked her hands into her sleeves. “Why not?"
“Because...” How could she explain that she felt she needed to be there? That she had an overwhelming sense she had something important to do? “...I have to be there."
“Atuk specifically ordered you not to go."
“Yes, but she didn't order you not to take me there."
Anya sighed. “It was implied."
“Okay, let me say this in a different way—I, as the daughter of Atuk, order you to take me along,” she said in what she guessed would be a vain effort.
“That does not work. As long as Atuk is here, I shall take orders from her."
“I promise that I won't be a liability. I'll sit there quietly—I won't even squeak."
She couldn't see Anya's face, but she could have sworn the younger woman was smiling under the hood. “You know that will never happen. Atuk is right. You are not ready and you would be in the way. These people are trained. You are not."
“You can train me."
“Why would I want to? The Caretakers have already labelled you untrainable."
“Please."
Anya sighed again, and Cathy could sense that she was almost swayed in her favour. “I can train you, but you are not coming along."
Cathy was quiet for a moment. “I have to go, Anya,” she said softly.
Anya was silent for a long time before she finally relented.
“Very well. But only if you are ready and only if you cooperate with the Caretakers in your training."
“Thank you."
Anya didn't answer. Cathy knew that Anya would take her along—even if it meant contravening Atuk's orders.
But Judgment Day came much too soon.
* * *
Chapter 16
Eqin was awakened early on the morning of Judgement Day. The guard was standing in the doorway. His demeanour was neutral, nothing in his face or eyes giving away what he was thinking.
Your day of judgement has come.
Finally, Eqin replied, feeling scornful.
As was customary, he'd been kept in isolation f
or the past weeks, not being spoken to or having an opportunity to speak to anyone. He found it, to say the least, humiliating and frustrating. It was a good thing that he'd been mentally prepared for the isolation. He knew it was part of the Algidan's way of punishing prisoners and weakening their spirit.
As he was getting ready, he wondered how Cathy was doing. The fact that he'd heard nothing meant she was still alive—or at least he hoped she was. He'd been concerned about her safety after leaving the Facility, but he was confident she was able to take care of herself. But where was she?
He walked ahead of the guard out of the quarters and onto a platform on one side of the passage. The restraints around his upper body prevented him from moving fast, and the guard impatiently nudged him on. He gritted his teeth in an effort to control his temper. Apparently, their manners had improved little since he'd last been in contact with them. They were still barbarians.
Although he couldn't see them, he could sense the presence of others who were awaiting judgement. He heard their thoughts, their anger. Most were judged because of their relationships with non-Algidans and all knew what the outcome of Judgement Day would be.
Once on the platform, the guard moved his hand over a panel in the corner and a sphere of energy covered them before they started moving at high speed through a doorway into the controlled city airways.
He looked distractedly at the city beneath them. Regnos Navis. Not only was it the most populated city in the region, but it was also the seat of government. It had been some time since he had last seen it and absent-mindedly he realised he hadn't missed it a bit.
The city was built in carefully designed triangles around the Piros, a magnificent pyramid building which had been used as the government centre for centuries. It had been partially destroyed after an unexpected attack from the Viridi during the Great Viridian War, but was soon rebuilt even more grandiose than before. Its three sides were covered with a shiny protective shell with several docking bays for light vessels to leave and enter. It was a hub of activity that only ceased when the sun set.
His gaze shifted to the horizon, and he saw the glimmer of the energy shield that protected the city from the outside elements, allowing it to control its climate. The story went that after the Viridi attacked, the Algidans realised how vulnerable the city was to outside forces, and their researchers worked endlessly to improve the energy shield. It was said that they'd succeeded. How true that was, he didn't know. He knew from experience that the Algidan Council was cunning in maintaining control over the Krinian people. If that meant telling a lie or two, then they would surely do so.
Alien Genes 1: Daughter of Atuk Page 25