Aristian Holiday

The hardships that Iason and Riki have endured has led to their confrontation with the Elders of Rhea. The Flame and his Tempest now face their ancient enemy in an all-out battle for survival, and their love. Hang on to your boots!!

Aristian Holiday Chapter 17: The Lords of Amoi

They huddled together in the darkness, as they whispered encouragement while their bodies trembled. The planet held little light, and less warmth as the distant star Norain kept the planet in an endless sunset. The medics were unaccustomed to the darkness, and struggled to see what the natives took for granted. Everywhere they looked, prying eyes and translucent fingers pointed at the six young medics who looked out of place. Their skin was light yes, but their eyes knew the light for they held torch lanterns to see the ground beneath their feet.

The village was some distance from the main city of Noerein, the light of the city could be seen from their position, and the sounds of the city was light, as the wind carried away its melodies, high into the Elder’s City. A mysterious lot who built their nation into the bowels of the sleeping giant rumored to be nearly 10,000 years old.

“Where do you think Martin and Owen are?” Fran whispered.

“Martin said to wait here in the village at the base of the mountain, and there have been all sorts of shuttles going in. Hey, do you think Lord Mink has been transported yet?”

Fran looked at Gabriel, the young medic Martin lift in charge. He was rather pensive as Fran waved his hand in front of his face.

“Gabriel?”

Gabriel was also worried, too many shuttles had entered the keep, and he worried for Martin and Owen who said they would follow Lord Mink from the ship to the Elder’s city.

“Lord Mink is probably in there by now, it’s been over an hour, and I’m certain, that is the reason so many shuttles have arrived.”

Gabriel was afraid, as all the young medics were. They went from one shop to another before acquiring laser pistols with the money they were paid. No one really cared about the sale of weapons; after all, Rhea was on the outskirts of the dangerous Path of the Ancients. Many mercenaries stopped on their way to unknown destinations, and all knew the darkness of Rhea, kept many secrets.

Although clearance was required by Jupiter to travel that forbidden area of space, the mystics that roamed that known sector found ways to circumvent the probes that prevented ships form entering the worm-hole infested paths. Yet the Elders, whose inner telekinetic powers gave them the ability to “see” the holes, saw them as veils of gold. The Elders found a way to use the ability to pad the lining of their portfolios in a lucrative enterprise by mapping out the most stable worm holes for the highest bidder.

As the six young medics looked up at the dark skies, they were startled by Martin and Owen. “Damn you Martin!” What are you trying to do, scare us to death?” Gabriel clutched his chest, as Martin smiled at the frightened group of young men.

“Lord Mink’s shuttle just entered the Elder's city, we need to move, Lord Mink said help had arrived, and we were to wait for them.” Martin whispered as they once again huddled in the darkness. The young medics crouched down as a group of men approached their position. They were a group of young men, tall and dressed in scarlet robes and black capes.

“So what’s the big rush? Why were we told to report to the keep?” A young man spoke as the group paused to light cigarettes and rest a bit. Another voice spoke up.

“The Council of Elders was attacked by some unseen force, and they said a Blondie was captured.”

The group of men began to move once again, as they continued to speak amongst themselves.

“I heard they were expecting some Lord…damn, I can’t remember his name…but they said we were all to report to the Council’s Chambers to re-enforce the psychic barrier.”

Martin and the medics looked at each other, as the men suddenly stopped and turned their heads in their direction. Martin feared they might be young Elders, if they were going to re-enforce the psychic barrier. He knew they were no threat to the young Elders; nevertheless, the men began to walk into the alley they were hiding in. Martin feared for the medics, they were doctors not soldiers, and in a moment of panic, called out in his mind.

“Lord Mink! Lord Mink! We’re in danger! A group of Elders is coming towards us!”

Iason was being escorted out of the transport shuttle, when he suddenly stopped, and turned towards the direction of the village below the entrance to the mountain. Ayuda looked at Iason, as his hair began to rise and his lips parted.

“Martin…”

“Lord Mink!”

The young men began to move suddenly, as the Elders picked up the pace and began to run towards the young medics, when suddenly, the muffled sounds of bodies hitting the ground, silenced the footsteps.

“Shhh! Don’t move young Martin,” Came the quiet voice of Riki, as Raoul, Luis and the men quickly dispatched the group of Elders. “I am Lord Oskuro, do not be afraid.”

“Riki…”

Iason closed his eyes, as the gentle voice of Riki reached out to him.

“Iason, we’re here, at the foot of the mountain, the medics are safe.”

Elder Simone turned back as he noticed Iason standing still. He motioned to the two Elders standing guard behind Iason to move. Suddenly, Iason narrowed his eyes, as he turned his head over his shoulder focusing on the movement of the two men. The guards froze, unable to move an inch. Elder Simone pointed a laser pistol at Ayuda.

“Release the guards or I will fire, Lord Mink.” The young man glared at Iason.

Iason raised his hand. “Do you really want to test me young Elder? I think not.”

Elder Simone could not hold his gaze steady into Iason’s sapphire eyes that did not flinch, nor did Iason release the guards.

“I’m certain- you do not want any harm to come to your personal guardsman, Lord Mink. But you will release my guards.”

Ayuda held his breath, and thought to himself: “Damn it all!” He cursed his inability to help Iason. He was a hindrance, and a pawn to be held over Iason’s head.

Iason picked up his train of thought, and then released the guards who breathed in deeply. Their bodies shivered from the cold grip that pressed against their bodies, preventing them from moving an inch.

Iason gave Elder Byron a scorching glare, and then began to walk once again. He reached out to Ayuda’s mind and spoke.

“Ayuda, Lord Oskuro has arrived, Martin is with them, stay close.”

Ayuda sighed, feeling relieved. “Yes Lord Mink, I understand.”

Iason walked into the main corridor as Riki reached out to him once more.

“Iason, I have a team of 30 men, and we are heading towards the city. There are four main entrances to the Elders’ City. You will see us coming from all four directions- as they all lead directly towards the inner chambers and the two vaults. Don’t ask me how we know this, rest assured, you will see me shortly.”

Iason smiled, as he was led down the main corridor to the Council Chambers.

“Riki, please be careful, survive the day my love…”

Riki smiled to himself, as they gathered near the main entrance, but whispered out loud.
“Survive the day Iason, when the shit hits the fan, the men know what to do.”

“Very well my Prince…”

Suddenly, a deafening pressure pressed into their minds, and there was silence. The Elders had raised their psychic barrier, separating Iason from Riki. In his anger, Riki’s body began to transform and a tempest was raised.

“Bloody Hell! We must move now! I feel a collective presence raising the alarm on the mountain!”

“It seems, we’re expected.” Raoul observed, as Riki tried to contain his anger, not wanting to expose the team.

Riki looked at the medics. “You have been loyal to Lord Mink, Martin. Please remain here, out of harms way.” Riki gave them a smile.

Martin reached out and touched Riki’s arm. “Lord Oskuro, with all due respect, we would like to help you. Lord Mink is dear to us, we would feel horrible should harm come to him or your men.”

Martin pleaded with Riki, as the medics all looked at the young Prince. Riki was not very comfortable taking the young medics, but Martin did have a point. Injuries to Iason or the team could be taken care of quickly, perhaps saving a life in the heat of battle.

“Very well, just stay close to the team leaders, and keep your weapons ready.”

As the team neared the main entrance, James, Sir Luis’ right hand man, came forward. He had gone ahead, and scouted the entrance.

“Lord Oskuro, the four main entrances to the Elders’ City have been left unguarded. However, I did notice guards take up defensive positions behind stone barricades, approximately 100 yards inside each entrance, and the outer lighting has been shut off.”

Riki focused in his mind, as he could feel the tension coming from within the mountain. Petros, who had been silent up to this point now, spoke.

“My Lord, the psychic barrier has been re-enforced, I can see the inner Chambers, the Council is at this very moment anticipating Lord Mink’s appearance. There is much anxiety among the Elders.”

Raoul noticed Riki suddenly transforming into full Warrior mode, his face glowed softly in the darkness, but his aura felt warm. The teams were split into four groups, with men from both the Firm, Blondie Specialists, and Medics. Riki would be joined by Petros, Odi, Askel and Freyn, with Martin and Jake as Medics. Riki faced the group and spoke.

“We have the element of surprise, in that the Council does not know our numbers, or skills. Nor do they know from which direction we are coming from, this will work to our advantage. We well know that they possess great mental strength, so concentrate on your surroundings, and listen to your team leaders. We will all enter the mountain simultaneously; I will give the word, so focus on me.

Lord Am, Sir Luis, and Sir James, you are to lead your teams straight to the Main Chamber in the heart of the City, then descend to the lower labyrinth. We shall all rendezvous before the Council Chambers. Sir Luis, and Sir James, you will enter through the Vault’s secret doors. Lord Am, and I will enter through the two main doors that lead to the Council’s Inner Chambers.”

Riki looked at the men, they were focused, and he sensed no doubt in their objective. He noticed Raoul had armed himself with his behavior altering devices, and his whip; as did Sir Luis and Sir James. Raoul and Luis had placed mind blocks in all the team member’s minds.

Petros did not need it, as he was a powerful Sage in his own right, and an Elder. He knew he could handle himself, and was assured the Elder Class on Aristia was prepared to enhance the young Lords and himself, as they held their vigil in Armah’s Love.
Odi, Askel and Freyn had never experienced a mind block, and at first, were apprehensive as Raoul used the devices on them on board the ship. But once they adjusted, they could feel a strong sense of confidence permeate their minds. Odi knew Riki was inside their psyche, and it was not such a bad thing. The fervor of his love for Iason was inspiring.

The eight medics were in awe, as they finally got to see Iason’s lover, Prince Riki Oskuro. He was beautiful, and powerful. Martin could see the Warrior in him, and recalled when Iason spoke that “The Tempest has awaken the Flame.” This Prince was indeed stunning in features, but what stood out the most was the expression on his face when he spoke to Iason a few moments earlier.

There was great love, and a passion that could be felt by all who came into their presence. Martin now felt his decision to aid Iason was the right one. He was in the thick of it, and wanted nothing more, than to see the two Ancients reunite.

Raoul had taken the medics aside and implanted a mind block into their psyche. They looked at each other as the tall Blondie towered over them. Raoul was gentle with them, as he gazed into their eyes and gently spoke the commands. Then Raoul took Martin aside, and spoke privately.

“Martin, I am forever grateful for the care you provided Lord Mink. When I learned of his injuries through Lord Oskuro, I feared he would not have survived, if it weren’t for your brave actions. You risked much, and I know Jupiter will reward your courage.”
Martin blushed as Raoul gently touched his temple with the mind altering device.

“Thank you Lord Am, we did not know Lord Mink was to be abducted, and learned he was the target only after he was brought into the Med-Center. We decided collectively to aid him in healing, and escaping. He showed us great kindness, and we do not regret our decision to be here.” He looked up at the handsome Blondie with wide eyes, as Raoul praised him.

The other medics also grinned as they stood in line, and were prepared by Raoul for what was going to be, more a mental barrage- than physical battle. As medics, they were keenly aware of the mind’s power; Iason being a Blondie, was incredibly strong, even beforehe awakened as the Flame. But as he healed, and began to transform before their very eyes, they knew he was unique to all the Elite from Amoi.

They all stood before Riki who gave the word to move out. Each team quickly made their way in the darkness, their mind's focused and every muscle poised to act with incredible precision. Their senses were sharp, and tuned in with Riki's, as if they were one body, one mind . Once they were positioned near to their assigned entrance, and waited for Riki to give the command to enter. Riki focused on Raoul, Luis and James, and then spoke into their minds.

“Now! Take them quickly, don’t hesitate, and silence their minds before they can warn others!”

Riki walked into the main entrance, his appearance was awe-inspiring to Petros who focused on the thoughts of the two guards who noticed Riki right away. But Riki raised his right hand, and the two guards flew against the rock walls and were crushed instantly. Suddenly a group of Elders came forward; Riki never lost a step as his face glowed brighter.

“Cease your movement, or die!”

The sharp booming voice came from a rather tall Elder, who led his group of mature guards and stood before Riki. The team of Elders stopped in their tracks, as they noticed Riki was not alone. Odi and the twins hid behind a group of large boulders, as the Elders came forward from the protective barricade of stone. Odi motioned to the medics to duck as they raised their laser pistols and fired.

The Elders were armed, but held no weapons. They raised their hands and used their inner psychic abilities to attack the team. But no one stopped. Their efforts were thwarted by the mental blocks in their minds, and before they had time to pull out their own weapons, were fired upon. The group of Elders ran for cover, they did not expect resistance from mere men, and looked at their leader as he stood frozen before Riki.

Riki held the Elder in front of him with his outstretched hand. The Elder could feel Riki in his mind, and that is where Riki made his appearance.
“I have come for what is mine, and you stand before me believing you can prevent it!?”
Riki narrowed his eyes as the Elder tried to speak, but was unable to. Riki gripped their throats tightly preventing any from raising an alarm.

“I am Lord Oskuro, Elder of Rhea, and you shall pay the price for daring to raise a hand to me.”

Petros could see in his mind what Riki was saying, as the Elder stood helpless in front of Riki who had not laid a hand on him, but only stood with his outstretched arm; his hand slowly forming a fist. The group of Elders saw this in their minds, and they began to concentrate their effort on taking Riki down. But they were like leaves in the midst of his tempest, that was beginning to spin in the corridor; the Elders’ robes began to flutter as it picked up speed. They could not do anything against it, and as Riki glanced over their direction, in his mind’s eye, he spoke once again.

“You are mistaken if you think you can overcome my will- young Elders.”

Riki spoke in a forceful, yet strangely calm voice, but then heard the soft chime of his earring against his ear, and focused his mind on the Elders only, aiming his power in their direction, and away from his men.

Suddenly the walls began to rumble around Petros and the Odi, as chunks of stone and dirt began to collapse around them. If the Elders could not attack Riki mentally, they would now aim at killing his men by force.

The medics shouted for Odi to move, as a large rock was falling over his head; Petros raised his hands and using his enhanced powers, forced the stones away from striking Odi and the Medics. Askel and Freyn took the opportunity and fired upon the Elders, taking several down, which weakened their attack.

Riki became furious, and without hesitating, they all fell dead before him, their necks snapped in two. Riki knew there was a moment, when he heard the chime of the earring, that a hole in his defense was created, allowing the Elders to attack his team. He made a mental note to be aware of everyone’s position, but then looked at Petros with another idea.

“Petros, I will ask you to stand guard over the guys, they do have the mental block to prevent them from being manipulated, but, they do not have the power to shield themselves from an attack such as the one we just faced. It is clear, that they will use everything around them as weapons, and since Odi and the others cannot see into their minds, they will be at a disadvantage.
You will be that shield, allowing me to concentrate on the Elders. I am grateful for the earring; it has reminded me of my strength. However, when Lord Mink and Ayuda have been freed, you and the teams must leave the mountain as quickly as possible, understood?”

Petros gave a quick nod, as he looked at Riki’s intense gaze. He knew, as did Odi, that they could be used as pawns against Iason and Riki. Odi then came up to Riki and spoke.

“Lord Oskuro, Riki- I know we run the risk of being used as leverage against you, but don’t worry too much OK? We may be mere men, but we are strong, and we do not fear these Elders. I feel confident, that they can’t manipulate us in our heads, I mean, I could feel the pressure in my mind, and I could see their hands trying to reach me, but Raoul’s block held, I felt as if an invisible wall protected me.”

Askel and Freyn also spoke after making sure the medics were OK.

“Yeah, I also felt them inside, it was creepy, like they were trying to pull my brains out or something!” Freyn gestured to his head.

Askel chimed in, “Well that must have felt like an itch in your nose, as there probably wasn’t much of anything in your head to pull!” He teased his brother, as Freyn took a swing at his arm.

Riki smiled as he looked at the bodyguards, they sure had come a long way from the penthouse luxury they guarded on Amoi. Now they were in the armpit of the darkest region of space, facing an ancient enemy hell-bent on revenge. The irony of it all, was that this old enemy held the fate of known universe, in their captive- Iason Mink.

“I know you are all strong, and loyal Odi, I appreciate you guys hanging in there, but remember when we get to Lord Mink, you guys will have to head out taking any -and all- Elders down, that get in your way, as you all bug-out.”

Riki and the team began to move down the corridor, as Riki focused on Raoul, Luis and James. They had all encountered a group of Elders hidden throughout each of the entrances. They came out from behind stone barricades, and large boulders. Raoul’s energy was fierce, as Riki could feel his strong desire to find Iason. He could not fault the old lover, he knew Raoul would always love Iason, and did not feel threatened by it. Petros had told the team leaders that the Elders on Aristia were enhancing Riki’s and Iason’s inner powers, and that they should move with confidence.

*~*

Raoul moved with stealth-like accuracy, having no inner powers like Riki, although the Intellect in him was being drawn out. He could feel the power course throughout his senses, as he used all his skills to avoid a mental confrontation. Perhaps it was his proximity to Riki and Iason, as their awakened powers did have a side-effect to those around them, especially the Elite. He led his fellow Blondie Specialist’s down the entrance, and they immediately came under attack, as the pressure of psychic energy was felt by every team member.

Raoul was armed with the advance technology from Jupiter’s arsenal. Being the Head of Intelligence, Raoul never did like the many devices used to manipulate, or alter the minds of men. He disliked using them in place of an alternative means of security, as they left a bitter taste in his mouth. He preferred good old-fashioned brute force, favoring the whip, laser pistols, his defensive arts, or his own pure, unadulterated Blondie strength.

But Jupiter, in her wisdom that spanned ten thousand years, knew these Elders well. She had used her inner matrix to store all known technology to develop such weapons. Her Blondie’s were strong physically, but she was never able to replicate the psychic abilities of the Elders.

Iason and Riki were the only two Ancients with inner strengths, that she successfully reanimated. Their natural abilities rivaled the Elder Clans, but in their absence from the current era for so many centuries, she slowly developed such devices, that over time came to be used by only the Firm, Shield of Honor, and the Head’s of Intelligence.

Raoul never dreamed he would be using such weaponry against a foe whose very being, revolved around the power of the mind. He had brought a particular device that deflected this force, and beamed it back to the Elders, momentarily stunning them where they stood. This opening granted Raoul and the Blondie’s to use their impressive strength to subdue the guards, before they could react and warn others of the breach. Raoul did not hold back, he knew these Elders were going to be tough, and a mountain full of them, were more than they could fight alone. Time was of the essence, he had to move quickly, and leave none breathing.

*~*
Sir Luis had spent a lifetime instructing his students in the defensive arts, never giving an inch when they failed to learn a technique, always pushing the envelope to push them beyond their own abilities. He knew over the course of centuries past, that his ancestors lived to do Jupiter’s will. For Jupiter was the one who raised the survivors of Amoi’s destruction from the ashes, and made them the most powerful race in the known universe. The Ancients were all but gone, and when the remains of Iason and Riki were discovered, his dream of witnessing their return was highly anticipated by all the descendants of the Warrior Clans, namely his ancestors.


Although much was lost in the scope of time, the power of the Warrior Clans had been watered down by the mixing of other cultures into their fold. Many who searched the stars for the remains of the Intellects found mates on the many worlds they visited. They brought this element into the Firm, and the inner strengths were all but lost.
But the spirit of who they were, -Warriors- defenders of Jupiter, and of her Blondie’s was all they lived for. Educating the Elite to be more than they were; and hoping to instill a sense of pride for their lineage, was the duty, and privilege, of all members of the Firm. But the Blondie’s did not take that to heart, finding their status, strength and appearance to be the natural course of their evolution, that is, to be elevated above all on Amoi.

Sir Hector Stone always hoped to have his son, Ayuda follow in his path as the future leader of the Firm. As he watched his face react to the news of his son’s survival, Luis was inspired to use all his abilities, to return the young man to his father. But most of all, to restore the heirs to the Intellects, Lord Iason Mink, and Lord Riki Oskuro, the Warrior Prince, to Jupiter. These were his only two objectives-- nothing else mattered.

*~*

Sir James was dodging rocks, as his team came under attack. The Elders had hidden in the shadows of the corridor, using two of their own to bait the team into the open. What they did not count on, was that James and his team from the Firm, were using themselves as bait, while the Blondie Specialists fired on the Elders, as they exposed their own positions.

The expression of their faces betrayed their surprise, and they scrambled to attack them with their inner psychic powers raising their hands towards the attacking Elite. But they were too late, as a full blown brawl ensued. Because the Elders were unaccustomed to using their physical strength, the Elite as well as the Sir James and his men, overpowered the Elders weaker bodies. Truly, they did not expect a group such as this to outfox them, which made their deaths that much more satisfying to the team, who only suffered minor injuries.

As the four teams quickly traveled the corridors, they noticed an eerie silence as they neared the entrance to the main chamber, the City of the Elders.

*~*~*

Iason was led down a long corridor that opened up into the hallowed chamber of the mountain revealing the inner City of the Elders. There were many buildings carved right into the bedrock, consisting of a community not unlike any other found on the planet. Shops, markets, even medical facilities, all under the shelter of the extinct volcano. The air was humid, and there seemed to be fresh air filtered in by large generators powered by the heat of the hot springs, that numbered in the dozens. Proof, that the volcano still had life in its veins deep below the surface.

The temperature was quite comfortable compared to the dark, cold and unwelcome atmosphere of the planet. The City of Elders was completely independent from the world community. It was no wonder the city was exclusive to the Elder Clans. Being a secluded, eccentric species, they maintained their existence in the darkest corner of the planet, in the farthest reaches of the known universe, where only Mystics and Sages would feel at ease.

The lighting was moderate as light fixtures and street lamps lit the city. As one would imagine, Iason stood out, as many stropped to see him enter the main corridor, and head towards the Council of the Elders’ lower chambers. He was tall, blond, and stunning in appearance. Even though many watched in awe, the older community knew of his kind. No doubt the ancient race was well educated in their lineage.
Iason began to feel the hatred that many felt in their hearts, as the psychic pressure increased by the moment and quite noticeable. Ayuda needed no special skills to see the negative attention their appearance brought. He knew they were in a hornets nest, and the hive was buzzing.

The city began to shut down, and the population seemed to almost vanish immediately, as if word of their arrival warranted such action. Iason noticed the city began to dim the lights in an eerie fashion requiring Iason and Ayuda to adjust to the darkness, as they were now led to an underground labyrinth. The hushed sounds of many men could be heard down every corridor, and the urgent sounds of hasty footsteps could be heard, as a sense of anticipation and anxiety made the atmosphere tense.

They finally came upon a rather large chamber, the air was quite humid, and Iason figured they were near the core of the mountain, as the air was filled with the scent of minerals. Unlike those of Aristia, these minerals had a pungent metallic scent, which made the walls of the underground chamber moist, as if one was taking a bath in warm mud. Iason and Ayuda, unaccustomed to such an environment, felt nauseated as the bowels of the mountain had a much warmer atmosphere than the city above. The ventilation was uncomfortably warm and breezy, as if they were about to enter the lair of a dragon.

Elder Byron stopped before a very large ornate entrance, that had symbols carved into the thick wood. Iason, being the archaeological historian, easily recognized the ancient symbols which read:

“ENTER, LAST BEGOTTEN SONS OF AMOI. ORPHANS OF THE ELDERS. EMBRACE THE DARKNESS OF RHEA, AND GROW STRONG IN MIND, HEART, AND SOUL. NEVER FORGET YOUR LINEAGE, NOR THE SUN THAT FOREVER SET IN YOUR EYES.”

Iason shivered, as the somber words reminded him of the images and destruction Jupiter showed him and Riki the night before. He felt no pity for them, not for the betrayal of the Elders of old. No. Iason would neither fear, nor pity them. For in his eyes, the Elder Clans were the creator’s of their own fate, not by Jupiter’s hand, nor by their fathers. No, they had one of their very own, to take credit for their exile.
The doors opened, and Iason and Ayuda were led to the inner chambers. Iason could hear the low rumble of men’s voices, as the Council Chamber doors were opened. Iason’s heart raced, as the candle-lit room was lined with seats that rose up against the bedrock, similar to an arena. Iason was led to the center, and directed to stand on a platform which faced a row of elaborate chairs, where the Council of Elders sat individually.

There was a rather large hot springs behind the Council member’s chairs. It was elaborately decorated with two large granite pillars, and green vines that thrived from the humid environment. Iason noticed the water’s murky appearance, unlike the beautiful hot springs of Aristia, with its fragrant minerals.

There were seven seats, representing the seven Elder Clans that were exiled from Amoi. The men were quite old, as if preserved by some mystical power. Iason knew the Ancients aged slowly, Riki’s father was nearly 400 years old, when he was assassinated, so to see such elderly men before him confirmed his thoughts.

The Elders that were seated in the many rows behind Iason, numbered nearly one hundred. Their hushed voices seemed to vibrate against Iason and Ayuda. Ayuda made a quick surveillance of the two exits, and the two doors that led into two rather large chambers. The doors were guarded by four men, on each exit, yet none were armed with any weapons, which made him wonder. The two young Elders that escorted them were armed, as well as the two guards that were behind them, so that made for only four armed men. Iason turned to face the Council as the doors were all closed, and silence was ordered.

The Elder seated in the center chair stood up and prepared to speak. He was tall, with long graying auburn hair. He wore a long, yet well groomed beard, adorned with light gold link chains woven into a long braid. His clothing consisted of a scarlet robe tied at the waist by a long black silk sash. The long sleeves hung down over his hands, concealing old bony fingers, and long manicured nails. He wore a gold necklace which held a small, rather thin square, tastefully designed with gold woven fringe. In fact Iason noticed all the Elders wore such a necklace.

The tall Elder raised his hands to once again silence the room.

“Welcome, young Lord Iason Mink, we are honored with your presence.”
The voice of the Elder was immediately recognized by Iason, as the one that was heard in his minds’ eye the night before. Iason narrowed his eyes, as his appearance began to slowly change. He held back his anger, deciding to listen and discover the reason he was brought there.

“I am Elder Kronos Simone, and on behalf of the Council of Elders, I wish to offer our sincerest apologies for the rather unfortunate manner in which you arrived to our world. But as you repeatedly ignored our invitation to talk Trade, we were forced to take matters into our own hands.”

Iason listened intently, he had yet to speak, which confused the Council. No doubt, they were expecting an angry outburst from Iason, but he remained silent, as his steady gaze pierced the Elders’ own once again.

“While Rhea is not as beautiful as the island planet of Aristia, we have found our world has its own hidden beauty. If Aristia’s hot springs is known as the place Armah washed the dust from his face, then Rhea is where he washed the mud off his feet. We find it amusing how the locals put so much spiritual nonsense, into that old tale.

The darkness of Rhea has afforded us sanctuary, from centuries of persecution. We thrived in the belly of this sleeping giant, and now look forward to making ourselves known to the powers that rule the known universe.”

Elder Kronos studied Iason, as the stunning Blondie made no acknowledgement of the Elder’s statement, looking at his face without as much as a grimace.

“We were informed of your injuries, and are pleased you made a full recovery.”

At that moment, the chamber doors were opened and Commander Darius and Victor entered. They bowed slightly at the Council, and headed to take a seat while Elder Kronos continued to speak.

“Ah, Commander Darius, I see you finally grace us with your presence. We were just welcoming our guests to Rhea. I assume you received your commission?” Elder Kronos noticed Iason’s face change to one of anger, as Darius caught Iason’s glare.

“Yes, Elder Kronos, all is in order. Forgive my late arrival, but it was unavoidable, as I had to see to my ship and crew.” Darius gave the Elder a slight smile.

“I see, well please take a seat, as we were discussing the young Lord’s recovery from his injuries. We are confused with his appearance, ans your medical report of his grave condition, not three days ago. Perhaps your young doctor can explain this to us?”

Victor stood up, rather surprised to be addressed by the Elder. He never was given any attention, as Darius was the one who always did all the talking. He glanced over at Iason, who rolled his eyes as Victor looked rather smug, as if he had done a great thing.

“Yes, Lord Mink’s stamina, and genetic makeup are mostly responsible for his quick recovery. There was also the team of medics in my Med-Center, that cared for Lord Mink exclusively, which accelerated his recovery. But it was more than that; Lord Mink seemed by all appearances, that he would not survive the numerous injuries. Then something occurred that I’ve never seen before. He mysteriously began to heal with great speed. Wounds that should have taken weeks to heal even with Accelerator began to fade almost instantly. It was quite fascinating from a medical point of view, and I have yet to know why he made such a radical recovery.”

Iason listened to Victor, who spoke as if he were some kind of lab experiment, which pissed him off. “Mysterious recovery indeed!” He thought to himself. If they only knew that Riki’s own healing in the Armah’s Love, was responsible for his recovery. That- coupled with the constant care the team of medics provided, were the true reasons he survived. Iason maintained his temper, as the Doctor reached the end of his rather verbose explanation of his recovery.
Elder Kronos was impressed with the physician’s report, and then looked at Iason with a slight smile.

“Yes, thank you Victor, I believe Lord Mink had help from another source, don’t you agree Lord Mink?”

Elder Kronos watched Iason’s face hoping to see a reaction.

“We know for a fact, that Lord Mink has a rescue team nearby, and that his healing abilities, as impressive as they might have been, were healed by more than his stamina, and genetic makeup.”

Commander Darius stood up, surprised by the statement. He had no indication they were being followed, and knew that it would have taken at least several days before they were remotely close to them. Unless, they traveled through the “Path of the Ancients.” Yes, that would have afforded them several days.

Iason continued to glare at the Commander and Victor, which was not lost to Elder Kronos, who took the opportunity to test Iason’s patience.

“Come now Lord Mink, do you have issues with these men? They were both such diamonds in the rough no? They knew Amoi so well, I can’t say enough about their intelligence, and truly, Amoi is so trusting.”

Iason listened as the Elder egged him on.

“Don’t you wish to crush them in your grip? They were so eager to take this mission after all. The Commander’s very own father is one of the family heads of your prestigious Shield of Honor, is he not Sir Darius Raymone?

Iason was shocked by the revelation, but then noticed Darius was still wearing the gold necklace with the Firm’s symbol of a shield and sword. So he was Sir Luis Raymone’s son. What could have driven him to such a betrayal?

Iason tuned out the Elder, who was still grandstanding before his peers, and reached for the Commanders mind. Darius felt the jolt of Iason’s presence in his mind, and turned his eyes away from him. Iason got his attention once more, as he gripped his throat with his mind, and that of Victor. Victor was helpless to do anything but listen, knowing first hand that Iason’s mind was incredibly strong.

“Is this true Darius? Have you betrayed your very flesh? Have you sentenced your own father to death?”

Iason released both Darius and Victor, who finally caught their breath. Iason continued to speak to Darius, who now appeared agitated.

“Darius, do you not know- that your father is here, beneath this very mountain attempting to undo the damage you have caused?”

Darius gasped, he had no idea his father would himself come to rescue Iason. He looked visibly shaken, as Victor noticed Darius touch his left wrist with his right hand. He knew it bore the scars of his dismissal, by his father’s own hand. Victor knew well, the pain he felt each time he caught his lover rubbing the scar, for he knew his heart also carried the same.

“Do not waste your time Lord Mink, a mercenary knows only one allegiance, the one that only credits can afford. He cares nothing for Jupiter or the Elite. He doesn’t believe in anyone, but himself, and would sell his own father to the highest bidder.

The Elders’ words stabbed at the heart of Darius. For the first time since he was expelled from the Firm, he felt....regret. His stubborn pride prevented him from ever attempting to contact his father. He knew what the Firm stood for, yet couldn’t let go the views he held against their secret society. In his arrogance, he was the one who helped the Elders bring chaos to the universe. It was too late for regret.

Iason picked up on his inner conflict. His feelings were so strong; Iason was moved to speak to him once more.

“Love is thicker than blood, even if blood is thicker than water. It is never too late, Sir Darius Raymone- to do what is right.”

Iason gave Darius and Victor a small burst of energy from his heart. It was the first they had ever felt, and it washed over their whole body. A big difference from the cold grip they had felt before. Darius felt tears well up in his eyes, but quickly composed himself. Was there really hope?

Darius composed himself as he turned to the Council and spoke.

“I assure you, Elder Kronos, we were not followed, nor did we pick up any ships within a sector of our ship, as we approached Rhea. Though I don’t doubt Jupiter would send a team, immediately….”

Elder Kronos shouted in a voice that rumbled the chamber’s walls.

“Do you dare speak that name in our presence?! That damn machine’s name is forbidden to be uttered by anyone in this community, save only by the Council of Elders!”

Elder Kronos’ face betrayed his anger, which made Iason break his silence. He smiled as he spoke for the first time.

“I see that the Hall of Elders has not changed in over ten thousand years...”
Iason’s voice was as smooth as silk. He paused as he slowly closed his eyes and transformed a bit more, just a peek, for them to see his golden hair float as if a gentle breeze was making it move. He looked at the seven Elders seated before him as their faces stared at his appearance.

“Your welcome, as you stated, was nothing less than a barbaric attack by mercenaries you yourselves hired. YOU are nothing but a race of bitter old men, hell-bent on revenge for Jupiter’s wise judgment, and subsequent exile of your Clans!”

Iason's words to the Council were laced with contempt. And as he continued his verbal attack in the midst of angry whispers, the volume in the chamber began to rise once again, as Jupiter's name was once again mentioned.

“You can save your sincerity for some other fool. Your false humility is an insult to the millions whose lives your hands are stained with their blood. Innocence, peace, compassion, love…all lost by your ancestor’s unfettered greed, ambition and desire to have power. The Commander’s poor excuse of my abduction reflects even more poorly on you, who commissioned his services!”

Iason once again locked his gaze at Elder Kronos, his hair whipped about, and he sensed their outrage.

“You shall release me immediately!”

The chamber broke into a roar of angry reactions among those present. Iason’s scathing words hit them like a ton of bricks, and they cared less for his accusations. Elder Kronos raised his hand, and shook it in the air; his hair began to rise a bit, but nothing nearly as impressive as Iason.

“You will be silent Lord Mink! You do not hold any authority in this chamber, and you are forbidden to speak of that machine in these hollowed chambers!”

Iason glared at Elder Kronos as he laughed out loud, making the whole congregation gasp.

“Hallowed chambers?! You act like petulant children, angry because your mother punished you, and sent you to your room! That machine, that you so eloquently spoke of, was the direct result your very own ancestors contribution to the Living Text. This machine held your very own forefathers knowledge, along with that of the Intellects, and the Warrior Clans. Jupiter is the result of a collective effort to advance our peoples. Lord Kai Oskuro, Lord Jonas Simone, and Lord Raimen Mink- my father, all worked together on this machine, whose every component was my design. The Living Text was to forever record the greatest civilization that had ever lived.”

Iason left the chambers speechless. The silence was deafening, as no one uttered a sound. Kronos thoughts were sent to the Elders in the chamber.

“How can any man know what occurred over ten thousand years ago, with such accuracy? Could he really be the Flame we feared? And if Iason is the Flame, could Riki, be the Tempest?"

Elder Kronos and the Council had spoken many times over this Lord Iason. There were many occasions when they thought Iason could be the one prophesied in the ancient texts, but they never really believed the past could be brought back to life. Jupiter favored this “Head of the Syndicate” above all the previous ones, and they had never failed to do away with them in one way or another.

But Agetha proved to work best, as they all were driven insane by the poison. Now he observed the man before him, Iason was indeed powerful, and had successfully survived Agetha’s potency. He did have the outward appearance of the Intellects, but then again, Jupiter reanimated nothing but Intellects, not Warriors, and certainly no Elders.
Then there was this Lord Riki Oskuro. Had Jupiter also brought back the young Prince, Heir to Lord Kai Oskuro of old? This made Kronos extremely angry. They had failed to bring anyone back, not that they did not try. The Vault of Specimens was packed with the remains of the Elders, including Elder Jonas Simone, Lord of the Elder Clans of Ancient Amoi.

As shocked as they all were, Elder Kronos spoke once more, wanting to test Iason’s authenticity.

“I do not know by what sorcery you came by this knowledge, young Lord. But you have the facts all wrong. It was the Intellects and Warriors that turned on the Elder Clans of old, and it was your machine that drove the Elders into the caves of Amoi, everyone knows this! Jupiter came to life due to your specifications, and then she took over all of Amoi and banished our Clans off the face of the planet, and into the darkness of space!”

Iason’s eyes turned a deeper shade of blue, and his face began to glow. Ayuda felt the pressure of his anger, and as the bells chimed softly in his hair, Iason raised his hand and in his fury, pointed to Elders siting before him.

“Fools! Your very own Clan betrayed you! Elder Eric Simone, son of your ancestor and leader of the Council of Elders Jonas Simone, was responsible for the destruction of Amoi! Do not dare to insult the memory of the three ruling Lords. Erik demanded to have the Elder Clans rule over Amoi, so he programmed the Living Text Jupiter, to unleash the inner powers of the Elder Clans, setting the world on fire.
Your people turned on everyone, men, women, and children! No one escaped their insanity! Your very own leaders attempted to undo the damage, and being unable to regain control of your people, ran like cowards into the caves of Amoi, to escape the destruction!”

Iason trembled with the memory of his father’s funeral, and the deaths of his mother, Lord Oskuro, and Riki’s mother, the Lady Erin. He gathered every ounce of control he had, not wanting to erupt in the fury that burned in his heart.

Ayuda, who was linked to Iason for his protection, could hear Iason’s internal cries, as he recalled the images Iason witnessed along with Riki. Ayuda felt his mind burn with the images of all the destruction, and the sorrow that tore the hearts of the two young Lords. He raised his eyes, as Iason stood erect, gathering his thoughts before he spoke again. Ayuda felt tears well up in his eyes, tears Iason would not dare show the Elders.

Their silence did not reveal whether they believed Iason’s account or not. Iason, never lost his composure, and now spoke once more.

“Jupiter’s awakening occurred nearly five hundred years after civil war ripped apart what remained of Amoi. She provided food, power, shelter, and life to the survivors. Yes, she banished your Clans, and justly so. You will not stand before me and dare to convince me that you are the ones who were unjustly sentenced! It is convenient for your ancestors to claim revenge, when all of the tombs you defiled, have recorded the same events throughout the known universe.”

The Elders all began to murmur once again, as the council members spoke in hushed whispers towards Elder Simone. After a few moments, the Elders became silent. Elder Simone looked at Iason with a calmness that puzzled the Blondie.

You want us to believe, that YOU Lord Mink are an Ancient of old Amoi? You who were created by that machine, bred in a lab, weaned by nursemaids, and educated in a programmed, sterile environment? Forgive me, but YOU, young Lord would not know the difference between the images provided by an insane machine, that has out-lived her usefulness, and one of the many holopic’s created for the amusement of your Elite.

We do not believe you are such a man. There are no Ancients in existence, and we are not fools, like the many that claim prophecies are being fulfilled by you or this Lord Oskuro- Riki the Dark- is this not his name? An unruly pet mongrel you plucked from the slums of Midas?”

The Elders laughed amongst themselves, as Elder Simone laid it on thick.

“This so-called Prince is nothing but a sex slave you’ve obtained for your own pleasure. Moreover, now you want us- to believe he is a Prince, an Ancient such as you? Perhaps you did suffer some brain injury, and have gone insane yourself!”

In the roar of laughter, Iason could no longer hold his anger. He lost control, and held out his hand to protect Ayuda, then unleashed a force of energy that washed through every man in the chamber. They clutched their chests, as a cold hand gripped their hearts, and they fought for breath. Iason’s fury was like the roar of a lion, as he spoke.

“The Tempest has indeed awakened the Flame of Jupiter’s heart! You stand before his judgment, Elders of Rhea!”

Iason released a wave that pierced the very core of the Elders psychic barrier, and a slow rumble shook the chamber walls. The Elders all stood rooted to their seats, as the deafening sound was once again heard in the Vault of Specimens. Iason turned his attention to that chamber, then again released a second wave, but this time from his heart- not in anger- and the vibration stopped.

“What is this?” Iason wondered to himself, as he heard what sounded like the voices of millions of people crying out to him.

The Elders cried out and then began to chant, but it wasn’t their voices he heard. Iason could feel their pressure and looked to Ayuda, who had been seated next to the platform. His face betrayed an inner pain as the Elders attempted to manipulate him, knowing Iason would not attack his own man. Iason focused his mind on Ayuda.

“Ayuda, don’t fear what you hear, or feel, concentrate on me- something greater than us is here.”

Iason smiled at Ayuda who immediately felt the warm surge of power Iason had released. His mind was no longer feeling the Elders’ pressure. Elder Kronos hissed at Iason’s outburst, but could feel the cold grip of Iason’s power in his chest. He knew Iason was holding back. “Could he suspect what the vaults contained; the hidden secret and purpose of his abduction?” The Elders worked quickly to seal the psychic barrier, hoping Iason would not notice the tear.

Iason looked at the Council seated before him, and faced Elder Kronos, and once again spoke.

“You brought me here for what purpose? Were you hoping to use me as leverage for interest in Trade? Or perhaps you are planning to hold me hostage, and force Jupiter to yield to your demands?!”

Iason’s hair whipped in his anger. He still could not sense Riki’s presence, and was certain the psychic pressure he felt was keeping them from communicating. He didn’t know where they were inside the mountain, but knew he needed to keep the council occupied long enough for Riki to arrive. There were over a hundred Elders in the chamber, and he was certain, more were outside the chambers hidden, waiting for them to arrive. Elder Kronos composed himself, as Iason was reminded of who was in charge.

“Lord Mink, I’m certain you would not want my guard to “accidentally” fire his weapon that is pointed at your bodyguards heart...do you? I suggest you release us, or I won’t be held accountable.”

Iason glanced at Ayuda once more, as he was being held by one armed guard, while a second held a laser pistol to his chest. Both guards were straining against the force of Iason’s cold grip. Iason looked at Ayuda who once again felt helpless.

“Lord Mink, do not worry about me- do what you must.”

Ayuda’s sobering words echoed in the silent chamber. Only the labored breathing could be heard as the Elders struggled for breath against Iason's grip.

“How commendable!”

Elder Kronos’ arrogantly sneered as he clapped his hands mocking Ayuda’s remark.

“Your guardsman is quite loyal is he not? It warms the heart to see such unadulterated trust.”

The Elders’ cackle left Iason fuming, as he slowly released the grip of his hold. A collective sigh was felt by all. Darius and Victor struggled to breathe as Iason held their gaze. Darius turned his face away from Iason, averting his eyes to the ground.

*~*~*

Riki and the three teams were quickly moving through the corridors that all intersected in the main chamber where the underground city was. They were at first, amazed by the small metropolis that was built in the belly of a volcano, and if their visit was a pleasant one, they probably would have been impressed. But this was not a holiday visit, the Elders had ruined that for Iason and his household. This was now a matter of life and death.

Riki saw Raoul exit from his corridor, as Luis and James joined them soon thereafter. They all seemed to have survived the initial attack. The young medics walked behind the tall Blondie’s, afraid of their surroundings, but held their laser pistols tightly, as they looked around.

It was surreal, as they walked down the main street of the city. There was no sign of anyone. The hot springs formed an eerie fog-like mist that enveloped the buildings. The humidity was thick with the smell of minerals, which attracted the attention of Jake, one of the Medics. He came up to Martin and whispered.

“Hey Martin, do you smell that?”

“Smell what?”

“The minerals in the air, do you recognize the minerals?

Martin shook his head, and then the light of awareness shone in his eyes.

“Agetha?”

Jake nodded his head as he smiled.

“Yeah, it’s Agetha, and since the volcano has so many hot springs, I bet the minerals here are like the ones on Aristia.”

Martin looked surprised. He needed to inform Riki of this, because they could use the minerals to their advantage. They picked up the pace, and walked up to Riki who was walking with Petros near the entrance to the labyrinths.

“Lord Oskuro, Jake has some important information about the mountain.”

Martin looked at Jake and motioned him to speak. Jake was a little scared of Riki who was in full Warrior mode. Riki sensing this, calmed the tempest that swirled around him.

“Go ahead Jake, I want to hear what you know.” Riki gave the young medic a smile.

“Well, um, you see, the mountain was once an active volcano, right? But now, it’s just a mountain full of hot springs. I recognized the scent of Agetha in its pure form that seems to rise from the hot springs. It’s not as pleasant as the hot springs on Aristia, but its here nonetheless. I thought it may be important, since we used mineral lotion from the hot springs of Aristia, to heal Lord Mink’s injuries. He responded so well we used it around the clock on him.”

Petros eyes grew big, as he understood what the young medics were trying to say.

“Lord Prince, if the hot springs here are like the hot springs on Aristia, that would explain why the planet was lit like the sun when you and Lord Mink…um…released your passion.”

Riki smiled slightly at the old Sage’s who blushed at his own words. But this indeed was something good for them- an advantage the Elder’s did not know about. It was no wonder, their powers where amplified as they neared the planet. He wondered if Iason knew.

His thoughts were interrupted, as he sensed the movements of more Elders as they entered the lower level of the city. The labyrinths were dimly lit, and many shadows hid the men that lay in wait for them.

Raoul prepared once again, as all the teams were poised to deal with whatever came from the shadows. He motioned to Lord Leonard, who had been silent throughout the whole mission, not wanting to make any waves, now that he had been given an opportunity to redeem himself in the eyes of Raoul. And more importantly, was shown mercy by Lord Oskuro, who could have killed him with a single thought. He spoke to Raoul as they neared a particular section of the maze.

“Lord Am, there is a concealed door about thirty yards ahead to the left. That should lead to the two vaults. There is a blind turn you must take to the right, as you near the vaults. You must watch your step, there is a shaft that drops to what I believe is a hot springs. It is not the type one would enjoy. The two doors to the vaults are straight ahead from there.”

Raoul looked at Sir Luis and Sir James, they were listening to Lord Leonard describe the danger near the vaults.

“Sir Luis, and James, you two will enter through the vaults. Lord Leonard will join you, since he is aware of the danger, and knows what to look for. I will be entering through one of the two main entrances along with Lord Oskuro as planned. Wait for his command, we will enter once again together, since it will be the element of surprise we are hoping for.”

Sir Luis waved at his team to follow as the four teams divided once again and moved into the labyrinth’s dark maze. Riki could feel the Elders, the psychic barrier was not allowing him to communicate with Iason, and so he assumed the population was behind this barrier.

Riki could hear the sounds of conflict, as the teams encountered more guards, Riki focused on the teams and sent out a burst of energy which washed through them, but pushed the Elders against the force, stunning them long enough for the men to attack. He could feel the strength course through his body, as Petros also channeled his strength to protect the Medics who were behind the team’s Blondie Elite, and Specialists.

Suddenly the ground rumbled, and the air became still.

Riki felt a shift in the barrier, similar to the tearing of the golden veil that always shielded him and Iason in their mind’s eye. A scream in anger, and frustration washed over his senses- it was Iason.

He could hear Iason’s angry words, as he addressed the Council of Elders, and even listened to the sound of the many voices that screamed out to Iason and resonated with his heart. Riki shouted as everyone looked at him.

“Iason! I am here! Wait for me…we are but a moment away!”

Riki, once again in full Warrior mode began to run through the labyrinth in the darkness. Petros gave chase, as he also was able to hear the thoughts of Iason’s fury. He looked to Odi, Askel and Freyn, as Riki’s body began to glow before them. The fury of his tempest blew ahead of them, and the Elders that confronted them were blown away against the walls, crushed in his anger.

Odi had never seen Riki so focused. He could see his anxiety, as he heard him call out to Iason. Something must have happened in the Council’s Chambers, to make Riki fly down the corridors of the maze. He wondered how he even knew where he was going, but didn’t question his haste, so he followed behind, keeping a close eye on the team. He could see the bodies of the Elders against the stone walls, left in the wake of Riki’s fury. He noticed Riki listened to the chime of the earring he wore, as the focus of his fury was well placed. He also felt confident in Petros’ ability to protect them from behind.

Suddenly Odi could hear the voice of Raoul engaged in a firefight with a group of Elders near their position, and in the next moment the screams of their deaths echoed down the corridor. Riki must have gotten to them, he guessed. As they neared the inner chamber doors, Riki stood poised in front of them. He could feel Iason’s fury, and wondered what he would see when the doors opened.

Inside the chamber, Iason’s wrath was being felt by the Elders who struggled to maintain control over the situation. It was obvious to them now, that Iason was indeed and Ancient, and the next moments would be crucial in their plans. They were going to either succeed in their manipulating of the young Lord, or fail, to be sent into oblivion by his fury.

The Elders now focused their combined psychic strength to hold the barrier in place, but Iason’s power was too much. Suddenly the chamber doors flew open to their surprise, and Riki walked in.

He was even more intimidating than Iason, whose appearance was getting more frightening by the moment, until Riki made his entrance into the room. Iason looked over as Riki walked up to him and touched his cheek gently.

“My Flame, I am here, see with your own eyes, the Tempest that stands before you.”

Iason’s eyes filled with tears, as Riki’s warm hand brushed his cheek. Iason closed his eyes slowly, and then opened them, as if not believing his lover was really there, and not just an image in his mind’s eye.

“Riki…can it really be you?”

“Yes, my Lord, it is me. Iason, I am real, I am here.”

Raoul and his team took up defensive positions in front of Iason and Riki, as Sir Luis and James could be heard coming through the vault doors. The Elders were indeed shocked to see their chamber’s defenses breached by such a large and unorthodox group. Blondie Elite, with members of the Firm, and of all things, an Elder. They did not recognize the others, but were dumbfounded nevertheless.

Commander Darius could not believe his eyes, for there stood Sir Luis, his father, armed to the teeth, glaring at the Elders. He did not see him, as he stood near the entrance by Odi. The medics saw him though, and suddenly they turned their laser pistols at both him and Victor.

All eyes were upon Iason and Riki. And while some waited a lifetime to see this reunion, the Elders did not share the same sentiment. Elder Kronos now spoke to the two Lords of Amoi, ready to set in motion their purpose.

“My Lords, I see that you are truly the Flame and Tempest. Prophesied in all the ancient texts passed down from the days of old Amoi. Many have eagerly expected your arrival, and we the Elders of Rhea, have also patiently awaited your appearance...for reasons of our own.”

Iason and Riki turned to face Elder Kronos, whose manner of speaking was suspicious to say the least. Iason reached out to Riki and spoke.

“Riki, do not act yet, I want to hear why these men went to all the trouble of capturing me. There is a reason to their madness, and they have been extremely cautious not to reveal it from the moment I stepped into this room.”

Riki was not so patient, nor forgiving. He wanted nothing less than to finish what he started when he reached out with his hand, and held them all in his grip. He wanted to end this once and for all, and he was having a hard time holding back. In his mind, he replied.

“Iason, they are up to no good, I sense great deception and evil from these men. I agree, that there is madness in their minds, and I feel they are about to play their hand. I will hold on for your sake, but the moment I sense their deception, I will not yield to mercy.”

Iason nodded as he turned to Elder Kronos, and spoke in a voice that rumbled like thunder.

“What is this reason you speak of? There can’t be a logical reason, for your manner of doing things has brought nothing but death and misery to millions of lives!”

Iason glared at the old man who raised a hand, and pointed to a large video screen on one of the walls. There appeared a young Elder who relayed a message to the Council Members.

“Elder Kronos, your communication to Amoi has been received. Jupiter has agreed to speak with you.”

Iason and Riki watched as the image of Jupiter appeared before the council members. She was not pleased, as her inner chamber hummed angrily.

“What is the meaning of this?! How dare you demand my presence Elders of Rhea?”

Jupiter scanned the room, and then noticed Iason and Riki standing side by side, completely transformed. They were stunning to her eyes, and she called out to them.

“My Flame, you have finally been found by the Tempest. Lord Iason, Prince Riki, I have waited so long to see you both as you stand before me.”

Jupiter, reached out in the image of Lady Erin, and stood before them as a holopic. She gazed into Iason’s beautiful sapphire eyes, and then into Riki’s which where as dark as night. Their hair danced serenely, and their faces glowed softly, as Jupiter smiled at them both, then turned to address the Council.

"What is it you want Elder Kronos? You obviously hope to use my children as leverage for your demands, so out with it. I have no patience with terrorists, nor do I yield to blackmail. I will say this, whatever it is you hope to gain is not in my hands, but in the hands of the Lords of Amoi. So you are now warned.”

Elder Kronos stood up and walked towards Jupiter as he spoke.

“For centuries we have waited for the appearance of the Lords of Amoi to return. We searched the stars as you did Jupiter, hoping to find the remains of the Flame and the Tempest. It was an undertaking that spanned nearly ten thousand years, with no success.”

Elder Kronos stopped and pointed at Iason and Riki.

“We learned that over the centuries, you have been able to reanimate the Intellects of old, but never an Ancient, nor a Warrior. Now we see before us, the reanimated Lords. You found a way to do this, where we have not. You are the Living Text that holds the combined knowledge of the three Clans, and we want what is ours. We want this knowledge, and you will comply.”

Jupiter gave no reply, as she processed this information.

Iason, on the other hand was livid, as the true purpose of his capture, was now becoming clear. Iason spoke as he looked in the direction of the two vaults, and recalled the voices that cried out to him.

“You have been raiding the tombs of my people for centuries. Desecrating their remains, and hording the treasures buried with them, for what purpose? Were you hoping to find this knowledge you speak of among the dead?”

Riki, who was losing patience by the moment, raised a tempest that began to swirl before him. His clenched jaw betrayed the fury he was prepared to unleash. But Jupiter raised her hand and spoke.

“Calm your anger, my Prince. I see now, what madness has driven the Elders of Rhea to this point in time.”

Jupiter watched as Iason continued to look in the direction of the vaults.

“Lord Mink, what is it you see? Why do you stare at those doors?”

Elder Kronos now played his hand.

“The two vaults that Lord Mink is preoccupied with are the reason we are here. For we did not raid the tombs of the Ancients for revenge alone, as you may think. No, we collected bone, and tissue samples of each and every Ancient, and Warrior we could find, and destroyed the remains. We hold millions of specimens within the vaults.”

Kronos walked back to his seat at the Council's table. His expression was smug, as he now laid it all before Jupiter.

“So this is the proposal, we will hand over the specimens and the Lords of Amoi, in exchange, for the technology, and knowledge of reanimating the Ancients. You see, we also have a vault of specimens. And have also collected samples of our Ancients. So the exchange is simple.”

Jupiter now hummed in her fury.

“A simple exchange of knowledge you say? Is this what you are attempting to blackmail me with? In return of the young Lords and the samples of the Ancients? I know now, that you all have indeed gone mad!”

Elder Kronos became agitated, as Jupiter spoke.

“And what if I deny your demands? Will you murder the young Lords? Destroy the remains of the Ancients?”

“Yes.” Came the cool response from Elder Kronos.

The Council of Elders watched as Jupiter’s expression changed. She looked at Iason and Riki, and thought of the multitude of her children who were in those vaults. A whole civilization suspended in sleep, and now being used to force their hand.

“If we can’t bring back our Clansmen, you shall be deprived of yours.”

Kronos paused for a moment to look over where Iason and Riki stood. He could see the young Lords were not going to cooperate, so now he pressed Jupiter for a decision.

“What say you? I’m certain you do not want the young Lords to lose their lives once again, do you? And after all the trouble they went through to be reunited. I know you desire the remains of the Ancients.”

As the Elder continued to once again grandstand before Jupiter, Iason looked at Darius, and noticed he held his hand over his necklace. Iason then called out to him in his mind.

“Darius…please listen to my voice.”

He then reached out to Sir Raymone who stood near the vault doors and spoke into his mind.

“Sir Raymone, Luis.”

Luis turned to face Iason who nodded to him. Darius listened, as Iason spoke to his father.

“Sir Luis, behold your son, Darius. He is not lost, even as he was the catalyst in all this. He may have aided the Elders in robbing the tombs of my ancestors, but this also has now worked to an advantage, for they are all in one location before you. I feel his part in all this was fate. We must embrace that possibility, and see where his heart truly lies. See the symbol of your loyalty that hangs around his neck, I believe, that when the time comes, he will do right thing.”

Riki was also listening to the conversation intently. He was not as magnanimous as Iason, but did not interfere. Darius looked at his father. He did not know what to think as Iason’s words echoed in his mind.

Sir Luis also was at a loss, since he had not seen his son in many years, and wondered what he would say to him once he found him. He witnessed all that his son had done, the many lives that were lost, and even the attack and injuries suffered by Lord Mink and Lord Oskuro. Now Iason was showing him mercy? He did not know what to do.

“Lord Mink, I am only his father. He is no longer the student, having laid his own path to follow. If his heart and mind are true, he will know what needs to be done. My love for him will never change, for I am a mere man myself. He should know this, since I could not bring myself to harm him when ordered to, even upon his expulsion from the Firm.”

Darius felt overwhelmed by his father’s words. It was as if his heart would burst with anxiety. He now stood at the crossroads of his destiny, and searched his heart for the right choice.

Iason returned his attention to Elder Kronos, whose long-winded banter was trying even Jupiter’s patience. Riki then spoke to Iason’s mind.

“Bloody Hell! This is not going to happen! I would rather die and take them all with me, then to yield to their insanity. I am ready Iason, just give the word, and I will unleash hell on these old bags of bones!”

Iason smiled as Riki’s old persona mixed in and out. He was also not going to allow the demands of the Elders go through. They then reached out to the men, focusing on their positions, and appeared in their minds eye.

“When Lord Oskuro and I begin to transform completely, you are instructed to leave this chamber and head for the surface. Petros will shield you, as the Elder’s of Aristia have enhances his Sage’s powers, and will be able to deflect any attack by the Elders. Lord Oskuro and I will put an end to this. We will not allow the Elders to ever obtain such knowledge. Jupiter knows we will never agree to it, and it is evident that the centuries of hate, and the thirst for revenge, has indeed driven them to madness. The end has come for this sect.”

Petros spoke up, “Lord Mink, what of the specimens? Are they to be destroyed?”

Sir Luis glanced at his son, and then spoke.

“Lord Mink, allow me to speak with my son.”

Iason focused on Darius, and then nodded to Sir Luis.

“Darius, I don’t know what is in your heart, or where your loyalties lie. But if you are willing to stand by me once more, tell me about these vaults.”

Darius looked over to his father as he stood before the vaults. He found the whole scene unnerving, but made a decision.

“The vaults are centuries old, and were created to protect the specimens at all cost. They are more than a meter thick, and completely air tight when closed. They can withstand pretty much anything…Father, what are you thinking?”

“Darius, which one holds the remains of the Ancients of Amoi?”

“The one before you, the other holds the remains of the Elders of Rhea.”

“Son, know this. Even though you were a part of their folly, I no longer hold any animosity towards you, go in peace and survive this day.”

“NO!”

Suddenly Iason and Riki turned and walked up to Jupiter who watched them approach. They raised their hands to touch her face and Iason whispered.

“Jupiter, if we do not survive the day, know that we love you. We appreciate you reuniting us after so long, and we hope to see you soon…”

Riki whispered, “Mother, I pray to see you soon.”

Jupiter’s expression changed as she screamed, “Iason, Riki- NOOOO!”

The Elders all watched as Jupiter’s scream echoed in the chamber, then suddenly Iason and Riki began to transform, their bodies changed quickly, and the air was filled with static as Riki’s tempest roared in their midst. Iason raised his hands, and looking over to Raoul, winked as a powerful surge of energy began to build up around Iason and Riki.

Darius grabbed Victor’s hand, and bolted across the chamber floor towards Sir Luis and James, as they turned to enter the vault. Darius pushed Victor into the vault, then helped his father seal it from the inside.

Petros raised his hands and the team rushed out of the inner chamber, as Riki slammed the doors shut. The team ran through the maze, led by Lord Leonard who knew the way out. They all feared for Iason and Riki, but did as they said, hoping they would survive the battle.

Inside the chamber, the Elders watched Jupiter, as she reached out to Iason and Riki with her hands, and faded away. Iason and Riki stood face to face, and held each other in loving embrace. Their bodies began to glow with such an intense brilliance, the Elders turned their faces away.

“I love you my Prince, I pray we survive the day…”

Riki smiled at Iason as he held him tight.

“Yes, my love, I pray we survive the day. I have too much I want to do to you when we get back to Amoi…so don’t go and die on me…”

Iason smiled as he bent down to drink from Riki’s lips. The moment was frozen in time.

They turned and stood back to back, as they raised their hands and a surge of energy formed around them. Riki’s tempest kept the Elders away as they began to fight back.
Elder Kronos mentally screamed to all of the Elder Clan within the mountain to fight against the light with all of their power.

Aristia…

The Elder Clan felt the drain from Iason and Riki’s encounter with the Elders of Rhea. Then suddenly, the hot springs began to resonate with the Elders. They stood in the water with their arms extended, and their hands palms up. They focused all their Sage’s powers, sending their collective energy to the Ancients, that drew power from their inner being. As Iason and Riki continued to fight the psychic pressure from the
Elders, the mountain began to quake and rumble.

Petros felt the surge of energy within his body, and suddenly his body began to transform, which frightened everyone who abruptly stopped and turned to witness it.

“Flee you numb-sculls! The mountain is falling over your heads!”

As they reached the upper level, they were confronted by the Elder Clans who stood in place and let out a barrage of psychic pressure upon the group. Raoul, the Blondie Lords, and the men from the Firm all opened fire on the Elders that stood in their way, while Petros continued to protect them from their attacks.

Odi, Askel and Freyn kept the Medics between them, as they were so frightened, some of them closed their eyes in terror. It was quite a sight to see the multitude of Elders, young and old, come out of hiding as if someone had struck the hornet’s nest with a club.

Petros noticed the hot springs began to stir, and then suddenly the murky water began to glow softly at first. Then as the surge of energy grew, the water became brilliant. It was as if the light of the sun had descended into the volcano’s chamber. The bright light blinded the Elder Clans as the team continued to run for the corridor that led out of the mountain.

Petros looked back as he continued to guard the men. Raoul and the others all stopped to look also, as the mountain continued to rumble and quake.

*~*

Sir Luis looked at his son who covered his ears as did Victor. They screamed as the psychic barrier was too much for them. Sir Luis then realized the two of them had not been prepared for the mental stress of the Elders as they had. Immediately, Luis grabbed Darius and placed his mind altering device on his temple, and began to whisper the commands in his son’s ears. James also did the same for Victor.

As they sat near the entrance, the Vault began to vibrate, and the specimen jars began to glow, lighting the inside of the vault. Sir Luis stared in awe, as he looked at the size of the vault that had been dimly lit when he first entered before. The vault was nearly as large as the archives vault at the Firm, and reached nearly two stories in height. There were literally millions of specimens.

Kronos and the Elders bombarded Iason and Riki with their psychic energy, but Iason and Riki were more than they ever expected. Riki’s tempest was beginning to toss the Elders against the walls, and although they rose again, he continued to fling them as if they were nothing. Iason’s piercing glare was aimed at Kronos who felt his gaze.

“You will not succeed Heir of Amoi! As your Father was felled by his lover, so shall you!”

Elder Kronos focused on Riki and with a surge of energy pushed Riki away from Iason. Iason watched as Riki fought back. Kronos began to chant mystical spells towards Riki, making the young Prince fall to his knees.

Iason, enraged by the attack, suddenly felt the surge of energy from what could only have been the Elders of Aristia. The waters of the hot springs within the Council’s chambers began to sway, and rise above its wells. Riki closed his eyes, and absorbed the golden energy as he shouted.

“Bloody Hell! Now that’s what I’m talking about! Hey Iason, those old farts on Aristia are fucking brilliant!!” Iason smiled as he heard Riki’s words, relieved to see the young Prince in control once again.

Kronos had never seen anything like it in all the centuries his people had lived on Rhea. The springs never did anything like that before, even with all the psychic energy of his Clansmen. Yet they danced and swayed to the energy of Iason and Riki.
Iason and Riki once again stood back to back, and with one deep breath sent out the most powerful surge of energy from their bodies, making the chamber light up in a brilliant golden light.

Sir Luis looked at James, as the specimen jars stopped vibrating, and the room went dim once again. They could not hear anything in the airtight vault. They felt nothing, neither Iason nor Riki’s energy, nor the psychic pressure of the Elders. The four men heard nothing but silence, and the pounding of their hearts.

As they were about to open the vault door, Sir Luis felt the warmth of Iason’s energy wash over him. As he drew a deep breath, James, Darius and Victor all sighed also feeling the wave from Riki.

They opened the vault door which creaked as the damage to the outer shell of the door was now in view. The chamber was completely destroyed. There were holes in the ceiling and the cool breeze from the outside softly reached them. The room was dark and all that could be seen was the shapes of Iason and Riki as they stood back to back. They held their heads high, as their hands were slowly lowered, and their bodies began to return to normal.

Sir Luis tried to get close to them, but their inner powers were still high, and their breathing was still rapid, their hair floated serenely about their heads. The gentle chime of Iason’s bells and Riki’s earring made them snap out of their trance, and they became aware that someone was near. Iason and Riki turned their heads in the direction of Sir Luis, and the three men, but quickly realized they were their own.

As they returned to normal, James found the torches that lit the room before and lit them. Darius looked all around the chamber and saw nothing but ash where bodies once were. There was no sign of anyone but them in the room. The vault that held the specimens of the Elders had not been sealed, thus all the jars were destroyed, and the specimens had also been turned to ash. Iason turned around and seeing Riki standing in front of him, immediately took him into his arms and held him tight.
Riki groaned as Iason’s strong embrace took his breath away.

“Hey, hey! Watch your strength big guy; you’re not just a Blondie anymore.”

Riki teased Iason who immediately loosened his embrace, fearing he had hurt him. When Riki smiled at him, he quickly relaxed. Taking him in a gentler embrace, Iason raised him up to meet his lips, and gently kissed him. Riki gave in to the kiss.

Sir Luis and Darius looked at each other, not quite knowing what to do. Sir Luis reached out to Darius, and pulled him into his arms.

“I knew you would do what was right. I never doubted you.”

Sir Luis held back tears, as he held his son for the first time in many years. Victor looked on, as his heart went out to them. He was surprised when Darius first took his hand and pulled him, but he never hesitated. He ran with him. He knew things would never be the same, but that was fine by him as long as they were together.

When Iason placed Riki down, they looked around and saw what was left of the chamber. The ashes of the Elders swirled with the cool air, and were dispersed in all directions. They left the underground maze and entered the city. Everywhere they looked, the ashes of the Elders were all that remained. The city was completely destroyed and the walls of the mountain were beginning to crumble. They quickly moved through the city, and came out through one of the long corridors and reached the outside.

At the base of the mountain was Petros, still providing a shield for the team. As soon as Iason and Riki were in sight, they all began to cheer. Petros removed the shield, and turned to see Iason and Riki smiling. Raoul shook his head, not believing they could have survived the barrage of power from a city full of Elders.

As they were all reunited, Iason looked at them all and spoke.

“Friends, I am pleased you all survived. Lord Oskuro and I will never forget your loyalty, or your friendship.”

Iason looked at Raoul, and the Medics; Ayuda was shaking Sir Luis’ hand when he pulled Darius next to him. At first the men were not too pleased to see him, but when James explained what he did, they were more forgiving. Although Victor was not as well received by the Medics, which he expected. He was still happy to have survived.
Martin looked at Iason with such admiration, he was moved to tears as Riki came up to him and spoke.

“You guys really came through, all of you. It took a lot of courage on your behalf, to help Lord Mink and I survive the day. You will always have my thanks, and my friendship.”

Martin blushed having Lord Oskuro address him so informally. The medics all came up to Riki, seeing him return to normal, and took turns shaking his hand, which made Riki grin from ear to ear. He playfully rubbed their hair, as they were all about his age, and just as tall.

Raoul stood apart, watching all the happy reunions in front of him. The Blondie’s all felt a bit awkward, as the enormity of it all sank in slowly. They wondered what would come next for the two Ancients. Certainly, the universe would soon discover their identities, and nothing would truly be the same again.

Iason walked up to Raoul and the Elite. As they bowed respectfully, Iason looked at Raoul and smiled.

“You came through- old friend. I know there is a lot that needs to be said, and done. I assure you, we will get together once the dust settles down, agreed?”

Raoul smiled a genuine smile for his old lover. “Yes Lord Mink, as you wish.” He felt awkward being addressed so casually by Iason, who was now Royalty.

Iason smiled back, “Yes, Raoul, we will.”

Petros turned to Iason and asked, “What of the Vault of Specimens? The Ancients of Amoi were not lost were they?”

“We sealed the vault until a recovery team arrives from Amoi. They will be fine, as the natives of Rhea are very superstitious, and fear what has occurred tonight upon this mountain. This will keep them away long enough for our teams to arrive.”

They all entered the shuttle and made for the Ship. As soon as they cleared the atmosphere, Sir Luis placed an outgoing beacon to Jupiter who waited anxiously in her chambers with Sir Hector Stone.

There would be much to discuss, and they all looked forward to returning to Amoi. Petros found new quarters with the medics, as he gave his bed to Iason. The ship would arrive on Aristia within three days, but the two lovers were looking forward to their intimate reunion now, and nobody dared disturb them.

There was much more that needed to be done, and the Lords of Amoi, would need there rest no?

*~*~*
Thanx for reading my little story. I hope you enjoyed it! Please give a review.