NationStates Jolt Archive

Killthanus struggled with his collar for the fifteenth time in as many minutes. Tugging at the material until he was quite sure any further interference might very well tear it from his shirt, he reluctantly let it be.

Instead electing to pull the laces of his shoes out somewhat until they could not possibly be any tighter. Returning to the mirror, his eyes scrutinised his face for signs of imperfection.

It was full of imperfection.

But he could not see any the cleaning agents that lined the sink area could remove, and had no choice but to leave it be. Sighing, he straightened to his full height. He could not believe that he felt as though this were the days of the Sketchan war, and the diplomatic tensions of its build up as he had raced from station to planetside and back, struggling to keep a warmachine up to date, whilst all the time struggling for peace.

But there was no war, and he had no diplomatic juggling act to perform, this was simple dinner. What complicated it was the presence of Melyanna.

He slumped down, feeling the spongy material of the seat mould around his body. Allowing his stiff muscles to relieve even a little tension, his mind drifted back, through past experiences and moments which in a million ways he could not force to take a more pleasent turn, or easier path.

He remembered the first time Melyanna had appeared to him as vividly as any of the most important moments of his life so far. The image of her burned and fused into his very being so completely he could never hope to remove her from his soul. Flowing, silken hair that shone brightly with the dazzling finish of the finest gold and most precious metals. Long, delicate limbs that seemed to be so graceful he would have thought she moved through a different time period.

Her skin, as flawless as sculptured porcelain on which not a blemish or mark of time or reminder of age would
be allowed to dwell. Not pasty so that the sun would shine above and make it out as a dweller of caves, or hiding from the natural world. No, a pale yet creamy complexion that begged the merest hint of warmth to be held against, as though the colour might change quickly and for a time.

Though all these things made Killthanus struggle for breath, and each indivdually accounted for beauty he had never known in his sphere of existance, he could not help but ignore them all for the wonderous windows to the soul that gazed at the world, and occasionally, at him. Her eyes were the purest blue. A cobalt hue that seemed

to imbue the harsh power of the artic, yet not nearly so heartless and unrelenting. A hint of warmth that led a hidden, yet existing spark. Indeed, that spark would betray her inner most feelings, no matter how she struggled to contain them.

Killthanus sighed. At times, he wished his own eyes, and those of Kaeneians everywhere, could carry the depth of emotion this single Elf, and as an extension not only her people but humanity as a whole, could claim too. He tried to banish such thoughts, shortly he would be in her divine company, and it would take his considerable willpower to simply avoid staring, and wondering. Shaking his head, he stood, and exited his quarters.




Melyanna allowed her eyes to wander as she gazed through the viewport that dominated the front of her quarters. The inky blackness of space stretched outwards, occasionally punctured by the bright, thermonuclear inferno that from her viewpoint was simply a pinprick of light, and whose whole existance and meaning was captured in a simple, four letter word- star.

She listened. For nearly a year she had resided within Kaenei, and in her capacity of official Elven advisory to the Serene^Union. And in that time, she had never ceased to be amazed by the sheer uniqueness of the people she had come across. Virtually everything they performed or achieved was in such a stark and unusual contrast to other people. A guarded, closed race whose tightly controlled emotions made for a near impossible climb over the solid walls of ice that marked their home.

From many sections below, the thrum of the drive systems reverated. Only the slight phasing giving any indication they travelled through space. Indeed, had she simply closed the silk curtains that adorned the screen, and sealed her chamber closed, she would have fooled herself easily into thinking once more she treaded on the soft grass of Terra.

She held her headband delicately. Despite finding to her suprise the utter strength of the metal it comprised, she feared always of a careless drop or nudge would snap it apart. Slender tubes of silver and black interlaced and mingled into a central and diamond-reminiscent shape, She carefully lifted it, placing it snugly on top of her head and pushing down until it settled on her forehead.

Glancing at the reflective viewport once more, she assured herself of its position. Tonight, she would attend no official function, nor further Kaeneian familiarisation classes. Tonight was simple dinner, with someone whom scarcely twelve months ago she had never met before, yet now was an unmistakable part of her life.

Retrieving a light, lilac coloured shoul, she retreated from the serenity of her cabin, and began her evening in earnest.


Deep within the bowels of the Kaeneian StarVessel Si^enna, amidst conduit piping, hull reinforcers and seldom utilised maintenance shafts, the powerful act of matter annihilation continued on uninterrupted as power was sought by the hungry, ravenous onboard systems. Superheated plasma raced through shielded conduits as it raged defiance against equipment built to overpower and force its angerous nature through.

However, this equipment was not infallible. Despite the best intents and efforts of those who crewed her. Despite the multi-million sensor points boasted by the electronic entity entrusted with the thousand or so lives onboard, random chance could not be totally ruled out. And where chance was possible, fate could not resist the urge to exploit.

And there, the plasma found a weakened point. A section which its furious, burrowing energies could be wielded with devestating consequences, and its appetite for mindless destruction and pointless death could be not only sated, but overbearingly fufilled. With the thunderous glow of a minature sun, the plating began to glow. The metal struggling and screeching in its vain efforts to hold together.

Now no longer a question of if, but when.




Killthanus watched with fascination as Melyanna leant over, Carefully lowering herself to her knees, she edged on to the grass. Her eyes cast over. She pushed on slightly, the carpet of deep blue bending as her small weight pressed down. The blue blades seemed to glow of their own accord, producing an eerie yet fascinating light of their own that made the overhead lantern quite redundant. Without looking up, she spoke, her voice betraying her excitement.

"The grass, on Solarri it was blue? Genetic engineering, or simple natural selection aside, it is a most incredible sight."

Killthanus seized on the oppertunity to smalltalk. If anything, could most certainly do with the practice.

"Not on Solarri, this was from a world known as Byzantiner, about a three earth-day journey from Solarri. Their world orbited a small, unremarkable star. The lack of solar radiation and heat meant that the days on Byzantiner were barely lighter than what we would term night. In an impressive feet of genetic engineering, they cultured their flora and fauna to emit a type of visible light, luminious in nature, and greatly useful in maintaining the light levels on their world."

"They called it "Cuyotiosun" or, sun-grass in the english tongue. It did not take long for word to spread, and the Byzantines reaped in a profitable industry in agriculture. Their remarkable illuminating plantlife could be found as far afield as the Northern Rim..." Killthanus trailed off as he thought of space long since abandoned, and of steeped tradition.

Concerned at his abrupt silence, Melyanna turned, fixing her eyes on his, and giving a comforting, and altogether dazzling smile. Feeling his concerns for the meantime calmed, he joined Melyanna on the grass, pointing ahead to a small collection of long stems, each topped with a closed flowerhead. He hesitated as he brushed shoulders with the beautiful women, feeling his heart flutter as though he were ten years younger, and not the intelligence minister.

Offering his hand, he coughed, "May I?"

Nodding, Melyanna placed her hand in his, and Killthanus moved it towards the closed flowers ahead. Taking her by the wrist, he opened her palm, and held it a few inches above one of the motionless stems. Within seconds, the petals slowly writhed. Unravelling, they opened lazily. Before their eyes, they began to change colour. A deep crimson to pink, and a gentle pink to white. As they cycled through the visible colour spectrium, Melyanna cocked her head.

"I hear something, most peculiar..."

Killthanus smiled, nodding, he waited until the sound occured to him, and then rolled through the air around. A gentle, high pitched hum that seemed perfect in both harmony and melody, a composition of the finest musical minds, and not that of a peculiar flower.

"This is the Singing Rose of Palenior, as it is translated in the english tongue." he began, "It exists as a symbiont partnership. It is paired with an extremely rare flying insect, similiaer in size to the Earth Bumble Bee, but far more rare. They emit a similiar, if slightly less melodic tune and cycle panels of their body in similiar colours."

Climbing his feet, but remaining hunched he explained further.

"The insect carries in itself the genetic material needed to create a new flower. They locate each other using their song, and colourings where the insect fertilises the flower, and the flower in exchange nourishes the insect, so it might continue on to others. Becuase the flower is such a ready supply of food, it remains closed as this to discourage other insects from trying their luck."

"Sadly, you will never experience the oppertunity to hear these wonderful flowers in unison. An entire meadow of these roses, in perfect harmony, in perfect unity is something that is really quite moving. Perhaps I can find an audio recording, it will not do the justice such an experience deserves, but it is far better than wondering."

Melyanna climbed to her feet also, but she did not heed the last of his words. Instead, she leaned inwards, Killthanus almost moved his head backwards, a natural reaction as the anxiety within him began to build sharply. He struggled painfully to keep from shaking as he watched those pristine features he admired so much move ever closer. Melyanna closed her eyes as the distance between the two closed to near non-existance.

And then, their lips met.

Nothing so hungry, or passionate yet to say that did not imply they were not in attendence. No, something altogether more gentle but needed. Melyanna sighed, a light, airy sound that soothed the worry plaguing the Intelligence Minister. Slowly Killthanus extended an arm, dropping it so it rested in the small of her petite back. Pulling her closer, she felt her body press on to his, moulding to his own contours.

For the Elven lady, she fought to restrain her true passions. She knew of the Kaeneian psyche, of their trouble with extreme emotional interaction. She did not for a second wish to jepordise something that had yet to truly begin, despite these steps. She brought her arms upwards, wrapping them gently around his dipped neck. She hung her hands over, tracing circles on the very top of his back. Her breathing slowed, despite her excitement. She felt a curious serenity.

Killthanus on the other hand could not believe what had finally ocurred. Never had he dreamed of this, of dinner and a gentle conversation he had realistically hoped. Yet here now, in the embrace of this divine women, he could not fathom why she would indulge him so. For possibly the second time in his existance, Killthanus did not question. He did not seek a reason for what happened now, or why. He embraced the moment, and Melyanna.


Minutes expired, and finally, lips parted. An awkward silence descended, neither quite sure how to approach or describe their interaction. It was the Lady who first broke the void, the corners of her mouth turning upwards in a grin as she looked on at the positively shocked features of the man she held in her arms.

"I do hope that wasn't too much of a mental drain?"

Finding his voice, the Intelligence Minister simply pulled Melyanna closer, until the pair were almost able to rest nose-to-nose.

"I can assure you, it was a most welcome drain. Perhaps to dinner my Lady? I would not wish to be accused of failing to deliver on my invitations."

Melyanna nodded, Breaking apart yet retaining her hand on his. Slowly they walked through the remainder of the botanical gardens. Much more was still to be seen, more amazing flora to watch. Yet these would be here in hours or days from now. What she and Killthanus moved towards was something she could not delay, or in her heart, wanted to.


Killthanus had taken a ridiculous amount of time earlier on in the day to decide on the venue for dinner. He had quickly passed on the Community Rooms, deciding against companyat that stage, and doubly glad with the
occurances of minutes passed he had done so. Feeling more at home within his own quarters, he had spent nearly

three hours re-arranging the dining room into something he could reasonably expect to be invited to himself. Gone were cluttered momentos and pointless artifacts. Spartan and basic, as most Kaeneians would prefer.However as he entered the room his mind sprung new and unusual criticisms. The paintings adorning the wall were obsolete, unflattering and boring. The table was too large to fit in with asthetic concerns on the room as a whole. Factors that would not have bothered him in the slightest now brought nerves and anxiety.

He was about to make a few changes when he felt two lithe arms wrap around his neck. A pleasent tickle around his neck followed as long blonde tresses fell around his shoulders. He relaxed into the embrace, forgetting his trivial concerns.

They slowly made their way to the table, Melyanna finally breaking contact to sit down. She set about organising her hair as Killthanus made his way into the small kitchen. He busied himself with clanking pots and other noisy utensils. It was a curiously familiar domestic scene, though the pair would stress it was anything but "domestic."


After a wrestling bout that very nearly ended in a scalding hot shower of garnished Teela Beans, Killthanus had managed to finish the upcoming courses. Gently laying the steaming pot on the table top, he began slowly scooping a portion on to some blue tinted plateware.

"I fear this might be a little bland for your liking." He hastily added as he placed the food in front of his guest.

"You are too dismissive of your culture to outsiders. It does not have to be spicy or pungent to be enjoyable."

Killthanus took a seat as Melyanna took a mouthful. She did not make a reaction, but simply continued to eat, periodically nodding her head, and taking a sip of water. She stopped, swallowing the food and looked across to the watching Minister.

"It is fine." she cooed.

And Killthanus smiled.





The metallic plate could stand no more. Its very structure pushed beyond breaking point, it tore from the conduit with a furious scream, its death throes drowned out miliseconds later as the roar of freed plasma pushed noise levels to lethal levels. The cloud of incandescent gas poured from the energy matrix, promptly melting through the sides of the conduit and releasing more flaming death. All around hull supports buckled and dropped to the floor, even as the junction electronics were exposed to the fire.

With a tremendous bang, far louder than any humanoid auditory system could withstand, the plasma detonated, vapourising the section with the force of a star. The harsh vacuum of space replaced the fragile oxygen a second later as the area was lost to the harsh black of the void. As the fire was extingushed through lack of reactant, the plasma was left as it was originally. A purple stream arcing out into the dark, through the jagged hull and lost for all time.

The Si^enna lurched to her port violently as the superstructure of the StarVessel shuddered violently. Throughout her various decks and sections, plasma conduits exploded with a seemingly random sequence, the entire energy matrix unbalanced by the first detonation.

Deep within the recesses of Engineering, dozens of tiny figures scurried, desperately trying to contain the damage, still unable to even hazard a guess at its cause. Those that could, worked to stabilise the energy grid. Those that could not, were most likely already dead. Their immobile, broken bodies littering the decking in an obscene exhibition.

Melyanna felt her hand wrenched from Killthanus as the table receded from her. She felt her chair thrown backwards, and she had not even the time to cry out before her head impacted against the edge of the couch, forcing a wave of debilitating pain through her being. She lashed an arm out, and felt less satisfaction as hoped when a heavy object came down on top of it. She heard an audible crack as the bones in her left forearm snapped. She cried out in pain, pushing against the fallen roof support but unable to muster the strength to move it.

Killthanus pushed the shattered table from his waist. Ignoring the stinging sensation of a broken rib he immediately darted to the side of Melyanna. Cupping her face, he made sure her eyes fixed on his. Breathing quickly through through his dirtied throat, he kept a tight hand on his emotions.

"Are you injured?" He asked.

Melyanna shook her head, the dense fog that had fallen over her mind lifting at the sound of a familiar voice. Opening her eyes, she gazed at Killthanus. She tried to move, but found her body pinned by the broken, and pressed arm.

"My left arm is broken..." She gestured to the roof support pressing down on the limb, "And I have a terrible headache, but nothing that can't be rectified." she reassured.

Killthanus nodded, rising to as full a height as his injured chest would allow. Without pausing, he turned and crossed to the communication panel mounted on the port wall. He steadied himself with his hands as the ship once more lurched to an odd angle, making his walk more of a crawl.

"I will acertain the situation, and get help for your arm." he said, finally making it to the console.

As he studied the unit for a functional channel, the lighting overhead flickered momentarily, pausing he watched as the photo-illuminatory chemicals died, no longer charged sufficiently to provide light. For a solitary moment, only the light of the stars through the viewport provided light. Eventually, the emergency beacons cast a red glow from each corner of the room, enough to see by, but barely so.

As he pushed the activation rune, the panel finally came to life. Killthanus was forming his opening words when a high pitched whine filled the air. Settling on the unit before him, he came to a sobering realisation of the source, and despite his reflexes, had not even fully turned to move when the unit exploded violently. Hurtling the Intelligence Minister backwards, He impacted stiffly on the rear bulkhead, sliding down without so much as a cry, or groan.

"Killthanus!" cried Melyanna as she watched the horror scene unfold, totally unable to even move to check on the prone figure. She tugged at the support, a muffled, agony-ridden cry squeezing out from her pressed lips as she felt the shattered bones move within her battered arm. Staring at the still figure propped up against the wall, she cried his name near every minute for the next hour.

But no answer came. Not from Killthanus, and not from a single soul above or below.



Within Engineering, only three figures still moved. Every second brought another conduit explosion, so that one could not reasonably walk eight or nine metres without the very real possibility of being burned to death in a conduit detonation. The Verteron drive, which dominated the Engineering Chamber, flashed erratically as its overworked and underassisted cooling systems struggled to cope with rampaging plasma.

Kianna darted to the cooling station, ducking her head instinctively as a conduit above blew outwards. She hissed her annoyance as she felt patches of skin on her neck shrivel and burn as drops of white-hot coolant fell from above. Slowing as she arrived, she passed her worried gaze over the row of orange and red runes that confronted her. She fixed her gaze on the final four, of which only one remained green, and the remainder a dangerous yellow.

Her hands flew over the console, her brow breaking into sweat as she struggled with the damaged equipment. To her relief, the four runes steadied back to green, yet for how long they could last, as their six before them had, she could not tell.

Setting off, she stopped before the master systems panel, before the reaction chamber of the Verteron drive itself. She took stock of the situation as she cycled through the remaining functional sensor pallets in the drive system, and energy matrix.

The Matter/Antimatter reaction was unstoppable now. Becuase of the multiple plasma detonations, the engineering safety systems had locked the injectors, in the hope manual interjection would shut down the energy matrix, and manually stop the reaction. Yet there were now no longer enough engineers conscious to carry out this task, and the matrix had destabilised beyond all hopes of salvage.

If the reaction was not stopped within the hour, the Si^enna would implode.

She acted quickly. Putting her faith in the durability of the safety systems, which had not failed her yet. Her hands flew quickly over the runes before her. Various symbols and patterns manipulated by her expertise until she felt the rewarding call of the still-functioning electronic intelligence.

Antimatter ejection system on-line.

Kianna stopped for a second, shuddering with the effort expelled. Bruises began to appear on her exposed skin. Deep lacerations running from her cheek and shoulder, a painful shrapnel impact slowing her down further. She pushed herself on, realising that there were literally no other Kaeneian within earshot to finish this vital task.

She allowed her left hand to drift upwards, beginning a seperate set of calculations against a cracked datanode as she continued on the original master display. A flurry of high pitched, melodic tones indicated the StarVessel still cared for its organic cargo enough to comply with their last, desperate acts.

Anti-matter ejection system is armed. Awaiting final verification for reactant dump procedure.

Kianna keyed in the final set of characters, and took a deep breath. She moved her forefinger down, towards the flashing icon in its centre. As she made contact, the panel flickered and died. Cursing, she looked left and right in desperation. Around her the chamber shuddered, as another conduit blew outwards, this time a safe distance away.

Jogging sharply round the massive form of the drive, she took a glance at the shattered platform lift, and continued on to the manual ladder. Pulling her weary, cramping muscles on, she climbed the considerable distance vertically, until she could place her bruised arms on the relatively stable decking of the upper level. Hauling herself to her feet, she quickly located a functioning console, and wasting less time than before, entered the sequence she had attempted earlier.

Verification confirmed. System standby confirmed.

Taking a second to stare at the flashing green icon, she lowered her palm, seeking to jam it down hard on the cracked display. She would take no chances. Her fingertip brushed the smooth edges of the console outline, which was as far as she managed to reach. With a shearing tear of metal, a conduit behind her erupted in a cloud of photofluerescent death. Kianna felt herself fly, as though gravity had abandoned her and now she soared as high and as free as a bird. And she remained free until the darkness welcomed her.

The bloodied remains of Third Engineer Adept Kianna Forsytui impacted against the rear of the Verteron drive, sliding downwards until she fell with a sickening thud on to the chamber decking. A streak of rapidly bubbling crimson painted a gory path of her descent from the upper level.

Damaged, malfunctioning and no longer able to regulate run time, the onboard intelligence choked out one, final desperate reminder. It knew Kianna could no longer hear, and that now, it seemed no time remained to save the Si^anna.

Verification...confirmed. Sys-sys-system stand-by....con-firmed.

Shadows danced, entwining from respective realms of damage and sustained impact, mingling like young children might make a playground their own for a few, short hours. Yet no slide, nor merry-go-round awaited to entertain these fluctuating images. Instead torn hull, splintered into suspended elements, and shredded, upturned panelling were the activites on offer for these flame-like shadows. As though a black fire burned fiercely against a backdrop of cold, grey metal.

Occasionally, the grey spread forth from the walls, infecting, multiplying, as though indeed it posessed some incredible power to alter the very force of life itself. It leached with near-invisibility, to the limp bodies that now made their home not on two feet, as it should be, but slumped to the floor, their eyes listed downwards, forever open and unblinking, yet the window-to-the-soul was sealed tightly shut, as though a great blizzard had now forever closed the glass pane to the warmth of outside, curious light.

Slack limbs were outstretched, reaching for a safety never quite within their grasp. Some bore near-broken fingernails, as though they had relied on the weakest structures of the Kaeneian body to pull them to salvation. Others balled their fists tightly, allowing the intense agony of an unknown-death throe to explode beyond their ability to resist. Yet all were unified in the total silence that reigned. Nothing did stir, nor beg for help, nor whimper.

Melyanna threw her heads upwards as consciousness overwhelmed her previous, fragile peace. Her eyelashes fluttered, as searing discomfort and scalding pain bubbled against her weakened nerve. Quickly, the events passing made themselves apparent, taking an amusing front-row seat to her obvious unhappiness. She tried to roll, to move herself with sufficient kinetic momentum to elicit some reaction. She cried out in pain, clamping her jaws together hard, yet with too much hesitation to prevent the sound echoing through the ruined interior of her quarters. She felt her heart grow heavy as she laid her tear-laden eyes on the still form of Killthanus. The Intelligence Minister had yet to stir, to even move since the energy surge had viciously struck him down, only the subtle, shallow rise and fall of his chest betrayed that life had yet to release its stubborn grip.

"Killthanus..." She choked, her voice robbed of a calm serenity often mistaken for arrogance.

Yet there could be no answer from a man whose conscious spirit had departed, whom took little solace in that deepest of places, dark and foreboding, where no wall nor floor could be felt, and whose fall was seemingly endless, without time to regulate or take pity. Melyanna slumped back against the wall, her shoulders heaving, with each shudder, her broken limb jarred, and she cried anew. She weeped for Killthanus, she sobbed for what would surely be her final few moments...

And she mourned the end of her all-to-brief happiness.




With a loud hiss, to rival any serpent that now made its displeasure apparent, the airlock reluctantly equalised pressure. The massive containment doors beginning to roll into recessed housing, their movements erratic, and poorly sequenced. Such was the state of the redundant access systems. without the asthetically pleasing dampeners and noise-suppressors that ensured a smooth transition to clear passage, the procedure was ugly, and prolonged yet thankfully, completed.

With haste, a lithe female stepped through. Her insulated boots making near no sound on the polished decking as she craned her neck to ensure both sides of the airlock were absent and secure. Slowly, she raised her gauntlet-laden hands, and with a twist, removed her pressure helmet. Immediately, alabaster-smooth flesh and flawless, piercing black eyes revealed Kaeneian origin. No sooner had she freed her severe ponytail from the entrenched helmet, others joined her. Some male, some likewise female, all united in their purpose and design. Without further thought, they quickly disbanded, their elegant legs carrying them quickly through the silent corridors with powerful steps.

"Your attention please, Anti-matter containment has been compromised. All personnel have seven minutes to reach minimum safe distance. All escape pods are armed, please secure all essential items within the primary cargo bay for immediate removal and proceed with all due haste to designated assembly points..."

Yet even as the onboard intelligence delivered this damning message, it joined its organic charges in absolute ignorance. Its sentience long since robbed and disabled by multiple system failures and overloads. This phrase but one in a hundred thousand previously programmed, and requiring nothing more than a simpel stimuli to find itself roused to activation. Few were able to hear, and furthermore act, on this intelligent-devoid warning.

Within the engineering sections, a terrible crescendo grew. Centered on the normally impassive, yet gargantuant Verteron drive, chaos began to enjoy free-reign. Normally slow and steadily illuminating magnetic segments began to pulse wildly as the entering Anti-matter lost all sense of input ratio. Injector assemblies sheared violently as the reaction began to spiral from control. With a terrific bang, an arc of forced lightning lept from the reaction chamber to an outlying conduit, shearing the tubing in half, and realising energised plasma into the heart of the Starship. Seconds passed, and another violent tendril erupted. Soon a veritable colour-show of lightning danced around the thrumming reactor core. Evidently, the decline of the Si^anna was accelerating.

Seconds later, the laws of physics without mercy took upon themselves the duty to end the starship. Finally free from a prison without feeling or interaction Anti-Matter freely mixed with the physical universe, the devastating consequences of which were visible as the Si^anna tore itself apart in a flurry of expanding gas and debris. Of those that had boarded, to make a final desperate grasp at rescue, nothing could be seen.

The void cared not, and continued to watch without passion. It could shed no further tears for souls cast adrift upon its freezing tides.

The silence was overwhelming, a point from which all activity and energy was drained and rendered useless so that the mind was left no individual noise to focus on. No tether for sanity to remain secure so that reality and madness did not mesh together without form or function. For even with the use of sight, teeming nerves firing in perfect unity to grant colour where before blackness resided, the passage of time slowed to an agonising crawl. The same scene devoid of humming, echoing, thuds, cries and laughter seemed to lose partial ability to evolve and transform.

As it did for Melyanna. Her eyes had observed the walls, now overcome with deepening cracks and fissures that threatened the very structure of the room. An intricate meal painstakingly planned and implemented with nervous energy and a not-inappropriate glee for what might await afterwards torn from laid tabletop and deposited without respect against the rubble-strewn floor. Yet all these objects or situations were not terminally so, steps could still be taken to rectify the damage.

For the body slumped against flooring, exposed flesh burnt, whose chest now rose and fell with such labour it became difficult to tell whether it lived or passed onwards, there would be no easy cure nor solution. For Killthanus, his strangled cries as overload sought to escape the harsh confines of conduit imprisonment and leapt for freedom in the form of his outstretched arm little of the cruel contemplation forced on his Elven love would likewise be endured.

However through this pain and misery a voice penetrated. At first utterly unrecognisable and garbled, seemingly little more than random letters and words assigned a chaotic entry into her mind and consequently ordered to depart almost immediately. She concentrated with determined intent, pooling her remaining energies to focus on this intruder and draw understanding from a placid lake of ignorance.

”Melyanna...”

She recognised the words, her name. She felt inflated by this, rapidly gaining in confidence and by doing so pushed against the blackness surrounding her. With the last vestiges of strength she succeeded in forcing back these obstructive barriers, and with a startling rush, all returned at once, and the blanket against her consciousness rescinded with violent pace.

The Apothecary crossed the short distance to the observation bed. Her forehead previously knitted in frown, relaxing as she ascertained the source of the murmurs to be of a positive, and therefore welcome nature. Leaning over hesitating, squinting eyes she ensured a calm welcome back to relative normalcy prevailed.

”Lady Tsile, please be calm. You suffered considerable injuries as a result of an incident aboard your starship, the Si^anna. The vessel was destroyed, however a number of personnel were evacuated before such circumstances ensured. Obviously you were amongst those, and I have treated you for minor internal bleeding, and an incomplete fracture of the left Ulna.”

Melyanna slowly sat up, her speed curtailed by a rapid descent back to the bed delayed only by the guiding hands of the Kaeneian present. After several moments taken to calm her breathing, and become once more fully aware of her surroundings, panicked though assaulted her.

”What of Killthanus? What are his injuries?”

The Apothecary took a step backwards, though her expression did not waiver from the detached aloofness demonstrated not only earlier, but amongst the near totality of her race. The Elf picked up on such a small act of distancing however, and her heart quickened.

”The Governor-General sustained injuries of a more serious nature.” She began, reaching to a mounted console and carefully rotating it the distance required so that Melyanna might view the data. ”The energy discharge initially caused damage to the Motor Cortex and Sensory Nodes within the Brain, unfortunately the discharge has been contained within the structure of the Cerebral Cortex rather than discharged from the body. Consequently it continues to degenerate the surrounding tissue and inflict further damage upon the Brain.”

Melyanna extended a hand, allowing her fingertips to trace the neural scan of Killthanus that graced the monitor screen. As though tactile contact with this inanimate object, so cold and detached by its thankless occupation, might somehow spur on health and healing, or bring them further closeness.

”What is your diagnosis?”

The Apothecary paused, consulting the scan once more before delivering news Melyanna had feared from the moment fate had struck the Minister so in the throes of yet-invited passion.

”It may have been possible to reconstruct his damaged balance and control centres if the discharge had struck but once and departed. However it would be useless and foolhardy to attempt to repair the damage whilst it would simply be inflicted once more no sooner than our instruments lay bloodied. Furthermore this does not remain the core problem. The discharge will in time dissipate, yet already it has spread forth downwards, to strike at the Medulla Oblongata and endanger vital functions. Medical subsystems stand ready to aid breathing, however ultimately there may be little surviving tissue from which to map a recovery.”

Ending the scan so that once more the monitor reflected not hope, or even information but the agony contained in the reflections of the Elf, the Kaeneian continued:

”Computer models have indicated an overwhelming likelihood of irreversible brain damage of which would bring into question any quality of living. Certainly near total paralysis and likely severe memory loss with accompanying retardation. It is of my opinion however, the Governor-General will not survive to be crippled so.”

Melyanna had ceased listening. As Pandora had unleashed evil against Mankind in Terran stories past, now she too felt trapped. As Hope did so likewise, unable to escape in time to prevent such horror unleashed upon a world unsuspecting. Hope who found itself alone in sole duty to comfort Humankind in times of woe and agony. Yet she would find little help from such good nature. Her blossoming relationship, as a flower still turning towards the bright Sun to gain nourishment now trampled upon and murdered. Twisted savagely and torn from the warm Earth.

Melyanna brought hands to her head, and wept.


The room was cavernous- practical in its naked and modernistic approach. From the far end an impressive window did stretch across, granting view over the bustling towers, streets and habitations of Solarri. Running against the temperate glass beads of ice cold water ran lazily, having melted from thick, blurry snow. As though attracted by the slightly warmer interior the flakes attached themselves promptly, only to be reduced to liquid by the heating elements contained within. Though the view could lay claim to steal the attention of any area, it did more so in a chamber containing almost nothing else of interest. Save for an elongated dull metal table from which may chairs stood either side, and the occasional drape of red upon black that hung from wall to ceiling in impressive height nothing stood apart.

With a thud deserving of such sudden activity, doors swung open.

They entered silently, seven figures dressed in the darkest blue and white. As unimpressive and low-key as the room they sought to meet within, it seemed silly indeed that anything of importance could take place here without such decoration or fanfare so common amongst those of Earth, those born underneath the glare of Sol.

Blizzards raged unchecked, Solarii once more accepting of the white blanket demanding to cover a warm body of metal, and plastic after an all to brief rest from such freezing conditions, and endless downpour. The first voice rang true, as though a foreboding preview of the tone set and following the conclusion of the statement to continue.

”It is a time of crisis, the likes of which the Serene^Union has not endured in five hundred Terran years.”

”I must concur with Supreme-Overseer Meridiaa. We have long since together discussed situations entirely impossible or deemed unlikely if only to ensure a contingency plan existed, yet now we find ourselves at a loss. Such news delivered within twenty four hours demanded action, yet twice fold brings devastation. We cannot now proceed without immediate resolution.”

Contemplating the words of the Defence Terra incarnate, Sophiaa Byzainti chose next to interrupt, and proclaim her opinion loudly to the gathered men and women of the Aengelisoria Dominica.

”Perhaps we transgress, perhaps it would be logical to first examine each incident in turn and arrive at a uniformed decision?”

A low muttering of agreement was forthwith from the assembled. Standing to accept this challenge as he had to begin the meeting, Christiansin Meridiaa, Supreme-Overseer of the Defence Solarri and consequently amongst the most respected of the Council continued-

”As you are now aware, the temporal displacement project vessel Scoperta was officially declared lost, condition and whereabouts unknown in accordance with military policy this new dawn. Having now been some twenty three Terran days since departing Khandrii facility, Europa and in that time neither emerging from displacement or successfully communicating their condition to the Serene^Union. Without any further similarly equipped vessels and utterly no data regarding the success of their initial jump, a rescue mission is impossible and foolishly considered.”

”I concur with my counterpart.” Began the Overseer of the Department Scientia, Farii Metrasci. ”Vessels of the first Solarri fleet, by gracious allowance of the Defence Solarri had taken up extended positions beyond the Sol System to lessen the possibility of the Scoperta having failed to actually achieve temporal displacement and simply found themselves in normal space with sufficient damage to limit communications. Exhaustive analysis has eliminated this option, and I can conclude with the data from in-depth testing from the jump point made certain this hour that it seems almost certain displacement was achieved in some form or another.”

A silence took temporary sway over those seated.

Julianna Hess had remained silent until this point. Given that she owed her place on the council to nothing more elaborate than the fact her immediate superior Minister Killthanus had been duly appointed Governor-General, she felt an illogical if entire unease at making her feelings known. Calling on her impeccable professionalism, she spoke.

”We are then, to all intents and purposes without an Overseer Aengelis. If I recall correctly standard military doctrine would now advise us to proceed as though the lives of the Scoperta are extinguished, and their return considered unlikely to impossible.”

Merdiaa nodded solemnly, his rough fingers interlocking as his eyes fixed downwards in concentration. ”Yet this alone, whilst news to sadden is not why we find ourselves on the verge of open crisis. For it is the events best described by the Union of Medicine that require the most candid and thought-provoking theories of those assembled. Apothecary, if you would?”

The indicated stood, as her title bestowed prestige as well as great knowledge and ability she received respectful nods in compliance with procedure and protocol. Viktoriia Annabel took a moment to ensure her data correct, allowing the pad to drop to the tabletop forgotten.

”Our Governor-General lies comatose at a secure medical facility within the limits of Solarri. Struck by a devastating energy discharge that has caused severe neural damage and continues to wreak havoc upon his fragile centres of memory, emotion and intellectual pursuits. Of how much remains Killthanus, let alone Kaeneian cannot be foretold. He had yet to regain consciousness and only then will the full toll be counted. Yet in my duty I must now officially rule Governor-General Killthanus as unfit to discharge his duties, I consequently declare the seat of Governor-General vacant on medical grounds.”

Assorted eyes fell upon Julianna once more.

”Investigations continue in an attempt to ascertain the cause of the destruction of the Si^anna. Yet progress is slow, and the near annihilation of the vessel and it's entire contents makes only assumption and chance weapons I can bring to bear upon this mystery. I regret to tell the Council of nothing they can utilise to find blame, guilt or cause.”

Meridiaa stood once more, to gain the attention of those assembled and steel it towards pressing matters.

”We face a decision that must now be made, yet we have no divine right to do so. For the first period in five centuries of the Aengelistoria Dominica we find ourselves without both a Governor-General and Overseer Aengelis, I need explain not the dire ramifications of this. We cannot now ratify legislation considered and approved, we cannot mobilise for war nor any military action. The Serene^Union cannot discharge its obligations as per alliance demands. Indeed the only guidance the Council has in such matters states only the immediate suspension of the military heirarchy to ensure abuse of power does not take place.”

Pausing sufficiently to gather new breath, he pressed on.

”As such, I have no choice but to immediately place the starships and extra-Terra facilities of the Serene^Union on indefinite isolation, pending resolution of this immediate and considerable problem.”

Vorsol Kindago, the immediate counter-part to Meridiaa and Supreme-Overseer of the comparable Defence Terra silently concurred with the action, indeed mobilising to stand and deliver a similar stance.

”I acknowledge such action, and likewise suspend the armies and machines of the Defence Terra immediately. It is with heavy heart I leave the Serene^Union defenceless, yet there is no choice, for the Council in turn cannot stand against that which grants us the very same power. “

I shall make the necessary announcements to whom it may concern, and prepare communiques for those Nations deserving of notification regarding the loss of the Scoperta.” Began the voice of the Foreign Affairs Office, Riordan Likonesse, ” I shall inform Kranf Artanis that in his duty as Triumvirate of Yut Facilitator, he must inform the council and other members of the inability of Kaenei to discharge its duties and therefore further indicate our suspension of contributions until such time as this incident is resolved. The same shall be made of the Non-Democratic Alliance.”

Meridiaa, whom had moved from standing to a strolling motion from his seat forwards, allowed a sign of weakness to transpire. Rubbing the bridge of his nose silently, he felt tension fill his weary being. ”Until further notice the holdings of Kaenei Mars, and Europa are to self-govern immediately. Make Martian Coordinator Liana Ferri fully aware of our situation, and request her swift compliance until such time as we can reform fully.”

Farri brushed a lock of blonde from her immediate view, lamenting the disorder her neatness had resorted to. ”The Serene^Union fractures, as we have avoided yet planned in this eventuality. In this instance, we can be assured of no betrayal. Though now we lower our weapons, and risk being struck true through the heart and impaled upon the agony of treachery. How shall we resolve? Who amongst us will take the mantle of Governor-General? It cannot continue in standard cyclical fashion, for the ancient texts forbade such. Better to ensure that the reason for the removal of both executives does not compliment one amongst the Council who might instigate such a treasonous act.”

Meridiaa observed the carefree flakes of snow brush upon the glass ahead of his pale reflection.

”That I cannot answer, we must debate, long into the evening and night for many days to come. We cannot yet leave until a solution presents itself. Ensure all is prepared out with the chambers, refreshments are required so we might be of sound mind and health.”



>>>Transmission to: [N.D.A/ Triumvirate of Yut] VIA {Trium DataNetwork[s]} <<<
||From: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture C/o WorldDisc Transmission Redundencies||
||Re:Immediate suspension of obligations and contributions ||



By order of the Aengelistoria Dominica, whom serve the Serene^Union with the vision and ability required to ultimately grant freedom and peace, I Supreme-Overseer Riordan Likonesse hereby must notify to whom it concerns of the immediate suspension of all foreign activities. Likewise and partially responsible is the official declaration of the classified transport project "Scoperta" as being lost without hope of recovery. Consequently the loss of Overseer Kristilanna Lgealis, combined with the critical injury to the current Governor-General Killthanus following the unexplained destruction of the starship Si^anna leaves the Aengelistoria Dominica without either executive branch for the purposes of ratification of Council actions or decisions.

With immediate effect, all territories of the Serene^Union are instigating self-rule including that of Kaenei Mars and Europan dependencies. All starships as classed "offensive and Military" in nature are immediately suspended from any and all activities or procedures. Similarly all Earth-bound armies and machinery of Kaenei are likewise forbidden from activation until such point as the current executive vacuum has been resolved. Whilst alliances and treaties remain in effect the Serene^Union cannot honour obligations or fufill charter expectations until such time as normal sovereignty is restored.

We wish a speedy resolution to this incident, our regrets.







Riordan Lkonesse
Aengelistorium Dominica, Supreme-Overseer of The Foreign Affairs Office.
The Serene^Union of Kaenei. (http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/page=display_nation/nation=kaenei)

TSMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: NDA standard
Broadcast type: Open
To: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture, the Serene^Union of Kaenei
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Devon Treznor - Treznor

It is with distress that we receive the news of the loss of your Governor-General. We understand that a time of transition must necessarily occur, and that you will not be participating as a full member within the Non-Democratic Alliance during that period. However, two of the founding principles of this organisation are solidarity and support. We respect your desire for autonomy, but should you have need of us, we stand ready to provide assistance. Until that time, we will respect your isolation and not count it against you.

As a Council member for the NDA and as an ally within the Triumvirate of Yut, we look forward to renewed ties with the Serene^Union.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v311/SpaceGhoti/Treznor/Devon.jpg
Devon Treznor
Emperor
<end transmission>

--<Transmission Type: Open Diplomatic Communique>--
-<Sender: Supreme Emperor Speaker-Rrit, FSS>-
-<Destination: Supreme-Overseer Riordan Lkonesse, S^UK>-
--<Subject: Current Difficulties>--

We understand your dilemma and offer our support. The Triumvirate of Yut has never abandoned a member in need and we will not do so now. I have it on the authority of the CINCTYCS that you can still rely on the TYCS to perform its duty in your defense, and we offer whatever assistance you need or are willing to accept in order to resolve this crisis.

We will stand with you.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/speaker-to-animals.gifSupreme Emperor Speaker-Rrit
Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

--<End Transmission>--

The screen ahead dutifully recorded the cardiogram, an ever travelling line of green whose occasional spikes and depressions did not do justice to the myriad of complex actions governing each and every beat of a biological heart. Such was the mindless devotion of technology- dogged in its determination to fulfil function, yet at such a base level totally uncaring and without compassion for that soul which in turn provided it with purpose.

An auxiliary screen complimented yet contained sadly lesser data. For where the wonders of imagination and creativity were rendered down as waves not unlike that of an oscilloscope, they were flat and seldom occurring. No final spark allowed the bridge between instinct and intellect to form, and such inactivity was sadly predicted. Yet those who had carried out the diagnosis felt no pleasure at their correct conclusions.

A shrill cry erupted from the previously silent equipment, one of warning and attention desperately sought. Within moments the Apothecaries mute through concentration had risen from forgotten workstations and moved towards the isolation cot. Silent upon crisp, white sheets the still form of Governor-General Killthanus cared not for the commotion around. Held above the cot a ring of glinting metal was mounted, from which streams of transparent and sterile material draped over immobile flesh. His bald, scarred cranium was a bizarre mesh of dermal regeneration patches and direct neural monitoring in the form of a fixed halo, burrowing directly into the skull and beyond.

Still the alarm wailed, and upon the neural activity monitor shallow waves erupted into voracious life, skewing across the faded green grid lines. The previously movement-devoid body that save a shallow rising and falling of the chest could be mistaken for dead broke into life with an arching of the back. Limbs secured with lengths of black remained forcibly paralysed despite the mindless shuddering of Killthanus. Without respite clouded slate orbs drifted open, fluttering as though standing on the verify edge of consciousness yet quickly clearing as intellect resurfaced to wrestle control from instinct.

Parting the ribbon-like sheaths of the sterile field, an Apothecary was immediately at bedside and witness to the first struggled words.

”I am numb…” Killthanus rasped, in some difficulty.

The Kaeneian medic nodded, ”You have suffered considerable damage to the motor control centres of your brain.” Leaning over the prone Governor-General, he ensured the medication eliminating the nauseating waves of pain was sufficient to last. ”The energy discharge that struck has caused progressive neural damage which we were able only to stem, rather than repair. Our initial projections doubted you would regain consciousness, yet obviously they were in error.”

Restrained by the suspension halo which held his entire skull within a vice-like grip, he was unable to nod to signal his understanding. Spluttering slightly he then accepted an offered sip of refreshing water, though the dryness that overwhelmed his parched throat grew uncomfortable.

”What is your diagnosis?” He whispered.

”We have been unable to contain the violent nature of the discharge, and consequently found no treatment suitable to delay the degradation of neural tissue. At current estimate loss of motor control will be total within fifteen to twenty hours, with conscious thought and ability unlikely to be retained beyond three days. After which technological intervention will be required to facilitate basic autonomic functions, and death can be expected within a period of hours afterwards.”

The facts were required without politeness or such etiquette. When life itself mattered decisions could be made only with the possession of the bare reality regardless of however harsh it may be. Killthanus knew the Apothecary as well as the entirety of the Union of Medicine worked tirelessly to prevent his expiration. If such a thing could not be avoided, he would accept his eventual passing.

”What of the Aengelistoria Dominica?”

Pausing to administer a further injection, the Apothecary pondered. ”The Council are locked in debate as last I was made aware. Following standard military doctrine the Scoperta and her crew were declared lost beyond hope of recovery, unfortunately with Overseer Lgealis among the missing the position of Overseer-Aengelis was declared vacant. With your medical condition leading to the vacation of the Office of Governor-General both executive sections of government are unfulfilled, the Council is paralysed and the Serene^Union is forced to enact legislation more akin to legend than procedure.”

Like all officials of such rank, Killthanus was well aware of the dated and unfortunately barbaric practices indulged in during times of such crisis. The suspension of all decision making above the most rudimentary level and the total paralysis of both Terran based and extra-solar military activity left Kaenei teetering upon the brink of disaster. Yet none would dare demand a restoration of even partial governmental activity, for the act of betrayal that found them waking each morning underneath the light of Sol was still fresh in the imagination of all.

That which led to their home world of Solarri enduring only as the name of the capital city of the Serene^Union, indeed that union itself, stemmed forth from an act of treason so beyond reason and simple understanding than to utter it in conversation would be to invite a frosty reception indeed. All wished an end to this nation-wide disorder, yet equally none would take that critical yet tradition-breaking first step.

Killthanus turned his head the fraction allowed by the watching medical equipment, his face twisting into a seep-seated frown. If indeed this wakefulness was to be short lived, taken from him so that he might fall forth into the bleakness of eternal rest then he would see that fall content.

”I would ask of you Apothecary… Can you bring Lady Melyanna to my side? For I sorely am in need of her company, and will not take a chance upon my continued conscious thought and reaction.”

”Immediately Minister, I shall work to minimise the time before her arrival. “

Drawing a deep, cleansing breath into weary lungs the crippled Kaeneian closed his eyes. Not through illness but tiredness that forced even bones to ache with a need for dreamless, fulfilling rest. He would wait for his love, his focus and desire, his will would not simply allow a passing without the complete understanding of the emotions he felt for her.

He would not go quietly, into the night.

Meridiaa settled his gaze upon the pitcher once brimming with chilled, refreshing water. From a promising source of vigour and revitalisation now all that remained were the vestiges of lukewarm liquid insufficient to provide one final glass. The pitcher was but one of a dozen likewise designs emptied and refilled as the morning had given way to blazing noon, and cooling afternoon bowed before the lunar influence of evening and the beginning of the nocturnal.

Turning his gaze now to his immediate counterpart, Supreme-Apothecary Vitktoriia Annabel, he pursed his lips.

”We are now a day further in age, wisdom and duration yet still no closer to solution. Despite the tolerances shown by both the Triumvirate of Yut and the Non-Democratic Alliance they shall not forever await our paralysis to end without retribution. I cannot see any other option save to break with the ancient legislation and appoint a new Governor-General without delay from those that sit here now.”

Viktoriia shook her head, almost immediately interrupting. ”To break the ancient legislation itself is not grounds for my complaint, but to circumvent the safeguards in place to prevent a repeat of our great displacement is both dangerous and defying in the extreme.”

Riordan Likonesse interjected, ”Yet something must be done to right this course, for each hour passing the populace beyond these walls will grow weary from lack of order. Despite our best intentions they cannot function without guidance or structure, and whilst we fail to implement this we fail in our sacred duty and sour the name of the Council. I hereby suggest a vote for the appointment of a new Governor-General immediately.”

Meridiaa nodded. ”I concur.”

”As do I.” Echoed Kindago.

”I cannot stand in good conscience with this decision.” Began Annabel, ”I say nay to vote.”

Until now having remained impassive and silent to the threats of sweeping change overcoming centuries of tradition and legislation, Farri Metrasci who did concern herself with matters more related to the Cosmos than the subtle nuances of national politics decided to speak.

”Whilst I appreciate the eagerness of my counterparts to restart the processes of government that do so now sorely lack, I find myself agreeing with the stark warning provided by the Supreme-Apothecary. Now is not the time to indulge in political experimentation at a time when we must remain absolutely true to the multiple safe-guards of the Serene^Union. We must resolve this crisis not through personal modification, but group certainty.”

”Who is to say group certainty is achievable when one considers the extraordinary circumstances of the impending decision?” Was the frank question from the overall commander of the sprawling bureaucracy that was Internal Administration. ”Even combined and in the best original intentions of those that founded the Aengelistoria Dominica we as a group lack the experience to make such a far-reaching decision with complete faith in any ramifications. Do not mistake this as slander, for each Supreme-Overseer present has the towering intellect and ability befitting their position. Unfortunately it is painfully apparent that this problem will not lend itself a perfect solution, as Kaeneians we seek wherever possible to discount side-effects and unwelcome results.”

”The natural world however, teaches us that on occasion perfection is at best, a deluded utopia.” She continued, her eyes travelling in turn to meet the gaze of each counterpart. ”It is apparent to myself that no such scenario for error suppression is possible, whether we appoint a Governor-General through our own interpretation, or attempt to arrive at another conclusion consequences will occur. Therefore in my opinion the lesser of those consequences lies with a vote to determine the position from among our own members, I say aye.”

Amongst the Aengelistoria Dominica one had remained quiet. Only recently appointed to her position and sitting amongst the most important and well-respected persons within the entirety of the Serene^Union she remained as eager as a Kaeneian could be to impress. Her enthusiasm was however, tempered by a lack of relative experience to the pressures of running an entire government department. Respectfully allowing the other Supreme-Overseers to issue their feelings on the matter, she felt comfortable to add her own.

”I fear this decision in more ways than one apparent through aye, or nay. The procedure for installing a Governor-General is neither exhaustive nor unusually inefficient. It is cyclical and thus truly equal as each of us in turn assumes the mantle. As such never have we been in need of assistance in breaking this cycle, and deliberately casting aside what little guidance remains."

”Now we wade deep within the waters of uncertainty. As a council we face delaying an appointment and further causing harm to the workings and people of Kaenei, or placing our faith and total devotion within the hands of one of our own whom will be the recipient of sole power in the absence of an Overseer Aengelis. Both carry inherent risks which we are all duly aware of, and have used to form the basis of our opinions. Regardless of conditioning or mental discipline we shall contaminate our opinions with more than simple, desirable logic. A deep-seated and unavoidable fear of betrayal does stalk each and every one of us, the very real chance of the violation of that most sacred of bonds- trust.”

”It is a fear we are not born into, but educated to recoil from. Rarely do other races learn to fear what fate dictates they will never be afflicted with, nor do they construct their entire civilisation on a harsh lesson learned by the virtual extinction of their existence. We have, and we shall never forget. However eventually we must make concession, as demonstrated by our membership to not only the Triumvirate but the Non-Democratic Alliance. We have stepped back from this fear before, and reached outwards. Now I ask the Council to once more step aside from tradition and apprehension and solve this crisis before it becomes a lesson to a future Aengelistoria Dominica in how not to resolve pivotal issues. As such I must say aye to vote.”

Meridiaa extended his arms outwards as if to pull the rest of the Council together for the moments he needed in order to speak.


”The will of the Council, though fractured is clear in majority. As such we must all in up most secrecy tender a vote towards either another member of the Aengelistoria Dominica, or themselves. In order to maintain appropriate measures in regards to interaction for the purposes of eliciting votes we shall be forced to mobilise elements of the Spire Guardians further against the ancient doctrines. We shall vote within the hour.”

Melyanna felt apprehension unrivalled within the sphere of her existence. Below her stomach existed a fire of sorts that seemed to simmer and burn the contents above so that she might feel an agonising twisting that although not life threatening robbed her of all semblance of control.
The walls were ironic in their sickening, hygienic white. Surrounding her the stench of death hung in the air though her logical self desperately attempted to point out the sheer fallacy of such a smell in here of all places.

White sheets stained a deep, foreboding red sat atop beds occupied by the dead- Twisted, gaunt corpses whose flesh bore not the warm tinge of life but the lingering paleness of eternal rest. Some wore calm upon unnaturally tightened faces, having fallen from the mortal coil without screaming or crying for but a second more. Others seemed not so fortunate and held masks of agony supplemented only by the pleading eyes forever open to gaze without creativity or emotion.

Melyanna shook her head, ridding her vision of such blatant foolishness. Concocted deep within her own fears of what she might gaze upon her mind spewed forth madness and distributed it freely in a final attempt to stop her and force a retreat from this place if illness. She would not condemn Killthanus to a final, few hours without her company or love. Such an act would be to strike him down immediately and take from his paralysed form what little time remained to live.

A voice devoid of discernable concern yet still soothing broke her internal monotone.

”Lady Melyanna, are you of sound spirit to proceed?”

Brushing a lock of blonde aside with trembling fingertips, she nodded. ”I fear we must press on, lest I lose the spirit to remain here, as shameful an admission as that is.”

”At once.” He replied, leading her forwards.

She recognised the critical care ward through memory rather than experience, and with such knowledge the condition those that were cared for there found themselves in. The seemingly endless rows of impeccably tendered yet obviously empty beds increased her concern twice fold. Row upon row of sophisticated technologies whom owed their existence to the suffering of Humanoid kind, yet ultimately here could lend little meaningful assistance. Towards the end of the unit the long medicated strips of the isolation shield were visible surrounding and obscuring the cot below, where she knew Killthanus to lay.

She became aware quickly of the thrum about such a structure, of machines labouring so that her beloved might endure for one final breath or word. Struggling to face the very power of death and deny, to refuse and give way only as their constructors threw hands upwards and admitted limitation. She was quite suddenly thankful technology knew nothing so natural as defeat, that these metallic angels would ward away the creeping tendrils of disease so long as a crackling halo of electricity so spurred their righteousness onwards. Her thoughts drifting slightly she considered further the ultimate humanity inherent in machines.

A curious, almost paradoxical term to utilise, but the longer she dedicated to this chain of thought the further credence she lent it. Truly did these neural stimulators, these dermal regenerators and automated respirators care not for social class, political leanings nor criminal intent. As equally adept at returning to life a celebrated artist of a generation as the forgotten and abused teenager of a broken and penniless family, merciful to all regardless of race and circumstance.

Merely the operators of such equipment clung to these ideals. Morals, ethics and the utilisation of the previously mentioned subsequently preoccupying the waking minds of their designers, implementers and users to degrees unavoidable as members of any sentient species. Indeed Melyanna believed it could be argued sanity as a subconscious cultural element was retained by the ability to grant machines freedom from such labours. To hand these creations the ability to fulfil an altogether grander purpose without the inherent difficulties in any decisions made.

As the Elf understood, one example of this employed in the world around her came in the form of triage, underneath the umbrella of the Hippocratic Oath- To treat those most seriously injured although others may be of ill health and indeed in unbearable pain. To allow a patient to pass onwards into shadow and memory in favour of one whom might yet cling to this waking world with diligent assistance.

Technology allowed for Men, Kaeneians and all to hand this difficult psychological and moral question onwards and allow pure science to answer without guilt, and self-depreciating questioning. Yet technology could no longer assist Killthanus.

His breathing was shallow, perhaps more so than in reality as it struggled to be heard above the thankless hum of surrounding medical sensors and chemical pumps. His flesh was a worrying and unhealthy white, not simply pale as it was with the Kaeneian race but a sickly pal as the skin itself grew weary and shrivelled leaving the features appear gaunt and thinning. The entirety of his forehead was obscured beneath the curved interface plate of the appropriately termed ‘halo’, as his right cheek was dominated by the elastic-like form of a dermal regeneration strip. It undoubtedly worked tirelessly to kit the burnt and scarred facial tissue together once more, but Melyanna questioned the purpose of such a superficial repair when his condition seemed terminal. His eyes, once a piercing grey that seemed so honest yet promised a wealth of hidden delight below a calm surface were clouded and hesitant to focus. With labour they eventually settled upon her.

”Melyanna…” He croaked weakly, his mouth slow to form the words he was so desperate to speak.

Carefully as not to cause further discomfort she took his limp right hand, held uselessly against shallow chest and held it tightly in her own. With her free arm gentle fingertips caressed their weak counterparts, if only to transfer strength of spirit rather than body.

”I am here beloved… I am here.”

He gasped audibly, his back momentarily rising from the bed. A soft yet out of place hiss signalled the instant response of the sophisticated machine suite surrounding, and with the release of some unknown agent Killthanus calmed and was once again able to formulate speech.

”I am not long for this Earth, my lady.” He wheezed, ”My strength is all but exhausted and only the abilities and technologies of the Apothecaries prevent my now certain expiration. I cannot explain to you in words truly what my heart and soul feel for you, yet I must- for I dare not take the risk of leaving you to continue your journey unaware of how important you are to every facet of my life.”

With a visible and distressing effort, he tightened his hold upon her hand. Melyanna sought to smile, yet failed to overcome the sorrow threatening to crush her heart upon the splintered rocks of cruel fate. Continuing to offer gentle soothing circles of motion with her free hand she remained silent to contain the wailing sadness and emotion.

”Whom can quantify love? The greatest poets, artists and musicians of this planet Earth and my world of Solarri have collectively expended a billion lifetimes in a virtually impossible quest to isolate and label affection, lust and devotion. Where they have failed science has loudly claimed superiority yet achieved only classification, not true understanding. Even the mind, which love must share with all other emotions does not help us to understand, only to merely recognise.”

”To a Kaeneian emotions represent the pinnacle of creativity and the summit of true sentience, yet at the same time the dark depths of self-destruction and depravity. Denying the rigid logical system so valued and mocking any attempts to understand them beyond guesswork and here say. Perhaps in the future as men of the past once thought this world the centre of the solar system and were in turn corrected, we shall come to understand affairs of the heart. Perhaps to be a master to our feelings rather than slave to their whim…one day.”

”Forgive me Melyanna, I am a slave in turn to this train of thought which has led me on a tangent away from my true goal. I can still remember as clearly as if recorded on data slate my first interaction with you, your intense curiosity that led to a barrage of questions I was ill prepared for and almost buried beneath. A curiosity that saw past the cultural barriers between our two races and that allowed me the honour of courting you. Listen closely to this admission my Lady, for I do not wish it to be disregarded as the sedated ramblings of a semi-lucid cripple.”

”Were fate to present itself before me and grant by some impossibility the opportunity never to board the Si^anna, and feel your exquisite lips against my own or even simply the joy of your company I would decline without hesitance. Though it seems in the clichéd tradition of a work of tragedy to rival that of Shakespeare, the all too brief months of your presence has brought a richness to my life that I could not have emulated in a century of decadent and indulging living.”

Melyanna could no longer resist the welling torrent of rage, sadness and helplessness that battered at her assaulted psyche. She felt the stinging blindness of tears as they began a lament from duct to rapidly colouring cheek. Her heart slowed, as one might be inclined to believe filled with a tearing unhappiness that forced the blood itself to travel onwards with little haste. As if even the cells contained within did weep and knew true loneliness.

”I have never known or understood the need for fulfilment through company. Always I have endured, thrived even with only my own intellect as companion and guide. Romance was a concept best left to those scholars and artists self-professed in its nuances. Life for me was simply a collection of experiences and its purpose to explore each in turn and decide upon its ultimate relevance in a grander scheme or picture. I had little time for frivolity and procrastination. Indeed something I shared with the Kaeneian people long before ever learning of their existence.”

She allowed her left hand to drift, now to press lightly on his exposed temple and trace the harsh lines of the halo unit.

”It is ironic that amongst a people devoid of passion I would see my own roar as an intolerable and equally uncontrollable inferno. Ironic, but welcome as I saw my flame accompanied by another, and that together we burned as brightly as any star that shone in the dark night sky above our heads.”

She paused, wiping the tears away sufficiently so that she might retain some sight.

”I still do not know or understand the need for fulfilment through company, Killthanus. I do however know I cannot endure without it regardless of whether I come to realise the implications, I do know that I cannot be fulfilled without you. Alone I am a star outshone and banished from a galaxy of hope and true contentedness- To the gulf between galaxies where only the most ancient and long abandoned of happiness reside.”

”Heed my words Melyanna, for they struggle to make the transition from will to speech. You must promise me, as much as I realise it shall hurt to do so, that you will continue onwards, continue here. You have brought the light of interaction to the Serene^Union and your abilities and personality must continue to serve the Aengelistoria Dominica and propel the vehicle of change that will see our isolationism end. Sorrow fills me in so many ways out with my own issue. To hear of the loss of Kristilanna weighs heavily and the effect this shall have on our government sadness further. To lose you would be to fire a pistol upon the temple of one bruised, starved and beaten so that death was simply invited scant moments earlier.”

”Killthanus, I cannot bare to face my life without you…” She began, but was quickly supplanted by the urgent tones of the former Governor-General.

”Melyanna you must! For not only my memory but the health of you, and my people. If only to better aid my happiness in whatever afterlife welcomes me you will endure, you will grieve but you will endure and eventually find another star from which to demand the heavens notice and compliment on. I beg of you to grant me this request, a final wish upon my death bed.”

No longer pausing to wipe the stinging form of her emotion, she simply nodded utterly unable now to find the catalyst required so that she might at least demand he not leave her, to dare fend for herself and cruelly snatch away the warm comfort so nearly her own.

Gray eyes drooped wearily, as his grip on her hand slackened so alarmingly that only the efforts of Melyanna prevented it falling limply to his lap. His chest slowly climbed to summit and then ceased laboured movement. With urgency unbecoming of an automaton the machines surrounding blared shrill alert and leapt into action. With efficiency a mask laden with bulging tubes which snaked along a conduit disappearing into the roof of the cot descended, clamping over the still mouth of Killthanus. Within this mask manipulators extended and roughly forced open his slackened lips, from which a tube extended and disappeared from view down his silent throat.

Previously vacated tubing burrowing directly into both lower arms and breastbone quickly became engorged on fluids of various colours and viscosity. From elsewhere otherwise invisible his body shook with applied electrical current, Melyanna stepped back utterly aghast at the scene unfolding before her.

Once more his chest began to rise, yet now with a mechanical quality- Each breath of the exact same duration, consuming precisely exact quantities of oxygen. The Elven women required no medical knowledge to understand the implications of what she observed. rustling saw the parting of the sterile shield, and the appearance of the Apothecary.

”What has happened?” She asked with anguish and unrestrained urgency.

The Kaeneian did not answer at first, taking a few moments to inspect the displays and perform an actual exam of Killthanus. When he returned Melyanna’s gaze it was one that immediately stabbed forth the emotional pain so hard into her bosom she dropped to her knees, ignorant of the hands immediately steadying her swaying form.

”I am sorry my lady, but the damage to his neural functions is now too severe even to permit autonomic function, let alone consciousness. These machines now labour for his continued existence, for there is now no will left to stir his heart to beat nor his lungs to draw breath. He is all but lost to us.”

Melyanna began to sob without measure, though the Apothecary put aside his unease at such openly emotional scenes and provided the barest comfort. Looking upwards to bring true sorrow to bear so that the Kaeneian might realise the extent of the torturous feeling that racked her body, she pleaded-

”Is there nothing that can be done?” She managed.

The Kaeneian shook his head, resigned. ” It seems now impossible to reunite his damaged neural centres with his body at large. We do not possess the tested science to attempt any other form of therapy or repair.”

From the blue and without provocation, Melyanna leapt to her feet. ”Could his consciousness not be duplicated? What of Angelus! I have seen the miracles walk and talk!

The Kaeneian again showed his doubt. ”Contact with the representatives of Angelus is all but non-existent. Issues complex in nature and resolution would prevent any appreciable action within the timeframe required to present any hope of duplication.”

At this the Lady did grow quiet, pondering.

”Zero-One.” She said simply.

”I do not understand Lady Melyanna.”

”What is the window of intervention?” She questioned quickly.

The Apothecary took time enough to calculate mentally, before arriving at an approximation. ”I would expect Minister Killthanus to be beyond the abilities of our equipment within three days under optimal conditions. I do not understand what you….”

Melyanna interrupted, though obviously through the spark of hope than rudeness. She turned to leave, almost losing balance in her rush to regain footing. Turning before exiting with a look seemingly almost determined save for the swollen, devastated orbs of blue she spoke to the Apothecary one final time-

”Watch over my beloved Apothecary and do not allow him to slip from this world if it is within your abilities. I shall return within the day and if it is within my reach I shall see his star burn fiercely or mine extinguished likewise.”

<open transmission, private diplomatic protocol>
Destination: Riordan Lkonesse, Aengelistorium Dominica, Supreme-Overseer of The Foreign Affairs Office
Sender: Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion
Re: Immediate suspension of obligations and contributions
Return channel: Open


Our condolences in your time of loss, honorable allies. We too grieve both for your loss, and the loss of our own aboard the Scoperta. We stand ready to support you should you require any aid, and barring that, await your ability to rejoin us as you are able. Know that we will account your absence as necessary, and as has been stated by our good ally Treznor, will not in any way hold it against you - neither in our NDA nor Triumvirate ties with you. Such is not the way of the Dominion, to abandon our friends and allies when they have need.

If there is anything we may be of assistance in, please do not hesitate to inform us.

-- Imperatrice Nathicana D'Aquisto

<end transmission>

S.H.O.D.A.N. ponders this problem carefully... but quickly, given the time required. Looking over the data sent by the Kaeneian apothecaries, she draws ideas in her mind, in portions of Zero-One cyberspace dedicated to her scratching out new ideas and weighing them. Can I do what I did for Treznor? No, his brain remained undamaged. This one already was and the damage could not be repaired in time. Patterning... could that be an option? HANS units have only been done with fully operational brains in critically injured bodies, but... there should be no reason why it cannot be done in this circumstance to save.

She calculates the risks, estimates probabilities of error and maps them against acceptable risk curves. Statistics and higher-dimensional mathematics combine, creating a histiographic sketch of what 'could' happen--an inexact science, more of an art, trying to divine the probabilities of life from between the lines. She compares the curves and graphs of her too-few options, eventually choosing the lesser of two evils.

"I have a possible solution," she replies simply, matter-of-factly, "a risky one, but possible no less. It is possible that we can pattern what remains of Killthanus' mind into a mechoptronic medium--essentially to create a Kaeneian Analog Neural Simulacrum. This technology was perfected by the Angelans... unfortunately, they have gone utterly silent. My own technology is sufficient to copy, but not repair. All involved processes are destructive, destroying the source material.

"What this essentially means is that I can copy his personality, his mind, everything that makes Killthanus Killthanus into a new medium. Instrumentality is another problem, dependent upon how much we save, and we have only one chance. Time is of the essence--if we pattern him now, we can save more. There's already a very good chance that his motor functions are lost; the more he loses before he is patterned, the more limited his instrumentality afterwads will be."

The almost tangible scent of exhaustion permeated the chamber and its contents. Empty pitchers of once cooling water regarded the silence formerly shattered by intense debate and dedicated discussion- Ended without solution to the problem, nay crisis at hand.

The bodies occupying parallel chairs were equally unwilling to break the uneasy quiet- Seemingly in deep thought or simply rendered so tired by the events of days passed that they found themselves stealing rest at the most opportune moments available. Outside the lofty chamber Mother Nature continued her relentless assault upon the streets of Solarri in the form of incessant downpour- Frozen showers of chilling snow that sweeped clear the pedestrian walks of not only detritus but any whom might have chosen a moment to travel from one point to another.

In this nothingness, activity made a triumphant return- The doors of the Council enclave slowly opening wide to admit one of their own number, flanked by the ever-present security of the Spire Guardians and one of the few armed units not affected by the terrible governmental paralysis that had struck the Serene^Union upon all levels.

”Overseers, I have returned.” Came word from Christiansin Meridiaa, Supreme Overseer of the Defence Terra and amongst the most senior of Kaeneians upon the Aengelistoria Dominica. ”Yet I return not with more uncertainty, but the solution to our crisis and the beginning of a path that shall right all problem and issue before it- I bring you the results of our landmark voting.”

Assuming position symbolically at the head of the stretching table, he consulted a data node for guidance before once more resuming speech.

”It is to be noted there were two abstentions- Myself and Overseer Kindago. As is customary in ages passed and agreed between us, the military should take no part in the decision making process of government. Consequently though we make our opinions known we turn them not into practice. “

Placing the data node upon the table surface, he entered a small sequence of commands upon a raised interface located at comfortable reach.

”Let it be known, recorded and forever retained for those to gaze upon and understand, that the Aengelistoria Dominica declares a successor to the seat of Governor-General. On this day, the twelfth sunset of the month of Terran February, the year of five hundred seventeen Earth Ascension. Is this decision heard and endorsed by the Council.”

Pausing for nothing more than to ensure the recording device gave proper respect in lieu of such an announcement, he continued-

”Therefore to the people of Kaenei, I hereby announce the one hundred and first Governor-General of the Serene^Union Supreme Overseer Sophia Byzainti. With immediate effect she is appointed to the office in question and endowed without delay the powers to ratify and approve legislation of the Aengelistoria Dominica. So let my message spread forth, and so let it be done.”

There were no words of congratulations- In the circumstances of Kristilanna’s passing and the imminent death of Minister Killthanus even subdued cheer would be disrespectful and uncalled for. Instead with perhaps more relevance than any words of encouragement Sophia stood, head bowed and eyes as cold as they seemed focused. Leaving her chair she joined Overseer Meridiaa at the head of the carved table, before accepting his acquiescence and step back by seating herself in the suitably more ornate chair of the Governor-General.

”It is done.” Mused Supreme-Overseer Riordan Likonesse.

”Indeed, now we move forwards and resume our obligations and contributions- Though we must do so without the normal structure of our Council. We are still without an Overseer Aengelis and now find ourselves with two Council members of little experience or knowledge at this stage with no disrespect intended to Juliana.”

”No offence taken or assumed, Christiansin.” replied the Kaeneian in question.

After these words, Sophia spoke- Now with the supreme authority and might of the Serene^Union echoing and reinforcing each vowel and word uttered where before only considerable respect and experience assisted.

”I take upon my shoulders not a glorious opportunity or promotion, but a heavy and wearisome burden. I find little pleasure or excitement in finding myself a replacement for Minister Killthanus whom has been indisposed cruelly and shall be taken from our presence in all too short a time. I voiced considerable opposition to the voting of a new Governor-General from amongst our own ranks yet will question no the supreme will of the Council- The command of the Aengelistoria Dominica is absolute amongst us all.”

”At this time I feel I cannot move to appoint an Overseer Aengelis without taking time in itself to acclimatise myself to this new found position. We have solved an immediate and grievous catastrophe, let us not rush headlong into another gruelling discussion whilst no need is impending. Fatigue finds much solace amongst our tired minds and I must recommend we retire immediately until such point as our intellects have fully recovered.”

Turning to Overseer Likonesse, she added- ”However, we must take action to restore full mobility to our forces and territories. The Office of Foreign Affairs must now rescind the self-rule of our extra-solar colonies, and announce to all relevant parties the restoration of the Serene^Union.,”

”It shall be done immediately, Governor-General.” Announced Likonesse, becoming the first to address Sophia in her promoted position.

Seeing that further discussion was nothing more than a frivolous waste of depleted resources, the assorted Overseers stood- Much still remained to decide upon and formulate but the wheels of government once more turned fully and the Serene^Union could utilise the full extent of its powers once more.

>>>Transmission to: [Triumvirate of Yut/Non-Democratic Alliance/Public News Distribution Networks] VIA {Trium DataNetwork[s]} <<<
||From: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture C/o WorldDisc Transmission Redundencies||
||Re:Restortation of govermental function ||



As Supreme-Overseer of the Office of Foreign Affairs, I Riordan Likonesse duly discharge my duty and the will of the Aengelistoria Dominica by announcing the formal appointment to the previously vacant office of Governor-General of the Serene^Union, formally held by Minister Killthanus.

On the twelfth sunrise of the Terran month of February, in the year five hundred seventeen Earth Ascension let it be known throughout that Sophia Byzainti duly becomes the one hundred and first Governor-General of the Serene^Union- Endowed with the powers and support of the Aengelistoria Dominica, the populace and trusted to steer Kaenei through the myriad strands of fate ahead.

Furthermore, I declare the period of suspension to be at an end- From henceforth all alliance contributions and obligations will be fulfilled without delay including any back-dating or outstanding developments which were neglected during the previous situation.

The will of the Council has spoken forth and seen action follow.






Riordan Likonesse
Aengelistorium Dominica, Supreme-Overseer to the Office of Foreign Affairs
The Serene^Union of Kaenei. (http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/page=display_nation/nation=kaenei)

The air itself vibrated with the repetitive hiss of technology, gathered around the immobile form lying upon the sterile bed sheet with dispassion and dutiful aloofness. Respirators stretched bellows apart as precious oxygen was channelled into inflating lungs forcibly and against the wishes of a mind now too damaged to comprehend its own imminent failing.

The room was dark, and only the blinking status lights of the medical equipment fought against the overwhelming blackness that threatened to rob the scene of all detail and leave only the barest outlines to be guessed at and pondered. Above a small spotlight shone downwards and illuminated passive, slacken features- Devoid of the warmth so supplied by the steady beating of heart and soul.

About this scene of illness, figures of almost apparition-like physicality passed. Garbed in flowing white robes they wrapped deceptively lithe fingertips around the cold steel restraint supports of the isolation cot. Cold blue eyes regarded the tragic scene with no personal loss, or alternative hope- Only to await the final shrill cry that brought the end of technology’s ability to hold back that most unappeasable final barrier, death.

That cry did not startle the attended figures, even as it rolled against the stark white walls and cried in agony. Instead no sooner had one such of the assembled ghosts turned to address the gleaming metal source of the sound than it stopped, replaced once more by incessant and unchanging hissing.

”He is not long for this world.” Said one, closely examining the equipment now silent.

His counterpart nodded, crossing the floor to join him. “Lady Melyanna insists her arrival shall come to pass soon- We shall endeavour to give him until her return, and whatever fantastical solution presents itself with her accompaniment.”

Manipulating a sequence of flashing runes, a reply was swift. “You doubt an opportunity will present itself?”

”The technology of the Serene^Union is not the crude dressings and amputations of Orcish medicine, nor the quasi-magical nonsense of the Necromancers. We are neither primitive nor stubborn but still our medicine can do no more than diminish the symptoms of his imminent death or at best, arrest it somewhat. We cannot doubt emotion drives Lady Melyanna’s quest for treatment, and in times it can be noble. But what hope does she cling to? I have received limited correspondence from the nation of Zero-One, in reference to total cerebral transplantation in much the same vein as that of Angelus. Yet I cannot believe preparation to make it a reality can be completed before Minister Killthanus passes beyond our world- Furthermore the sequence can save but what remains undamaged. Killthanus would remain a cripple and a mute.”

A response was not required as both understood the gravity of the situation. However before either could move in step or conversation rapid footfalls announced a visitor, and third member to their group. The flustered features of Lady Melyanna, Elven envoy of the Serene^Union virtually careered to a halt from what was little less than a gallop. Halting roughly before the assembled apothecaries she took but a moment to gather further breath.

“What is his condition?” She uttered with urgency.

"Essentially unchanged, Lady.” Responded the closest Kaeneian, ”Minister Killthanus has uttered not one word nor stirred since last he did so in your presence. Electrical activity in his cerebellum continues to decline alarmingly- Our assistance cannot guarantee his continued life for much longer.”

Almost pushing through the taller humanoids Melyanna rushed to the side of the isolation cot, to her beloved. Her subconscious ached to note he seemed not to have moved even a muscle in spasm, having lain in precisely the position left when she had begun her errand of mercy and devotion. Seeing the apothecaries had told her only truth she turned then to address them, desperation evident upon her weary face.

”I have been in contact with Zero-One, they have informed me of a procedure to duplicate the mind of Killthanus and yet grant him life. Have you begun the procedure?”

Silence seemed her only reply.

”Unfortunately Lady our own calculations do not share your assurances. We do not believe sufficient time now remains to complete the procedure before Minister Killthanus is beyond any benefit it would bestow. Furthermore the nature of the duplication involves the transfer of flaws- The Minister would continue to be as debilitated then as he finds himself now.”

"We cannot under those circumstances justify such a course of action.”

Melyanna sank to her knees, her hands rising to stem the flow of hot tears that assaulted her already flushed cheeks until they stung with the bitter, salty aftertaste of defeat and agony.

”Then all is lost.” She whispered hoarsely.

Though the words form the apothecaries were true and meaning, she did not hear them. Though their offers were sincere Melyanna could not respond, for her entire being choosing instead to dwell, and ponder and realise the loss that impacted so harshly against her fragile mind that to even withstand it was testament to considerable strength of will.

She felt deceptively strong arms take hold of her shuddering shoulders, with a gentle guidance that brought her back to her feet unsteadily. Sinking her tear-stained face into the pristine white overall presented before it, she sobbed. Her arms held tightly around the waist of the supporting apothecary, as he guided her towards a secluded bed- Thinking nothing of his own discomfort at such emotional scenes.

Oblivious to such pain and discomfort Minister Killthanus endured a dreamless, barren slumber. Unaware of the world of emotion, light and physical feeling that slowly but surely seemed to grow further from his weakened grasp. Forces beyond that of technology demanded that he accompany them beyond such foolishness as love, devotion and affection and into the waiting embrace of shadow and worse-forgetfulness.

His memories, so precious and irreplaceable regardless of the tempting riches on offer would be gone and destroyed- Experiences that would not be identical even with the expenditure of a thousand lifetimes dismissed with a callous disregard to their value. Utterly powerless as he was to prevent his downfall save tenaciously and stubbornly holding upon the jutting ridge of reality until his fall from the living could be delayed no longer.

Death stalked Killthanus closely now, and his grip could endure for only so long.


The Spire dominated the cityscape of Solarri, capital city of the Serene^Union and seat of power for the all-controlling Aengelistoria Dominica. Rising from wide foundations as an amalgamation of towers and crossing pathways it formed a titanic structure that dominated so utterly the paltry dimensions of its closest competitor that it seemed in itself an inherently impossible design. As though it was not one uniform construction effort but that of a thousand year struggle- Built upon as needs must and reaching such grandiose acclaim almost by accident rather than deliberate intention.

Such was the distance from Terra Firma to summit that the large landing pad intended for anti-gravitic vehicle use upon the pinnacle of The Spire was a permanently blasted grey- The original warning hues of yellow and orange repeatedly stripped and common sense dictating that repeated application was an exercise in futility. It stood as the only entry to the massive structure with any particular speed or urgency- The myriad corridors and means of negotiating the former suggesting any with urgent business best not enter from the ground.

Observing from her official sanctum a short way from such lonely perch Governor-General of the Serene^Union, Sophia Byzainti stood with arms clasped firmly behind her back. Despite keen black orbs the stretching towers of Solarri were virtually invisible beneath a furious blanket of freezing hail that hampered the senses of those shielded from it and crippled the senses of those subjected to its furious caress. Though the temperature within the sanctum was hardly far removed from that outside, she felt comfortable. Still a professional discomfort with her elevation to such supreme office continued to plague her reasoning.

Logic pointed out that no true barrier existed to prevent her embracing her ascension as Governor-General. The Aengelistoria Dominica had selected her through fair and justified means to succeed the soon to perish Killthanus and though such details were distasteful it was still an honour indeed to be selected so. The people of Kaenei widely respected her abilities and her tenure as Supreme-Overseer of the mammoth, all encompassing Internal Administration ensured she had worthy experience of the rigours of complex legislative formulation.

Yet still she was unsettled.

Never before had the post of Governor-General of the Serene^Union presided over integral change and alteration. Never before in living memory had the Union been assaulted both culturally and internally by factors its populace had strived to prevent for centuries beforehand. International interaction had reached levels unheard of since records began and with that interaction the bitter price of its occurrence- Kaeneian armies and starships mobilised in retaliation for attacks unwarranted and unfounded. Millions of those that would serve the Serene^Union slaughtered to sate the bloodthirsty tendencies of infantile savages.

In such darkness however, they did not stand alone. Much criticised as the starting point to eventual downfall the Triumvirate of Yut had time and time again proved its worth in both protection and opportunity. Truly few of those member nations had given reason to offend and indeed many had strived for quite the opposite- Perhaps these efforts would have heralded more success was it not for the untimely passing of Killthanus. In the Non-Democratic Alliance the Serene^Union found likewise nations whom founded their strong rule not on democracy but total authority.

Sophia could see no reason to affect the legislature binding Kaenei to these alliances- Having carried out the age-old tradition of examining her predecessor’s decisions for signs of improvement and finding none to effect. She knew however that her rule would be a difficult one, caught within the embryonic development of a new Kaenei, a nation warmly accepting interaction and responding likewise.

She did not entirely agree with the warmth of Killthanus- Freely admitting she often found it bordering on the illogical and desperate. Yet she equally knew his heart to be true and that none of his decisions could be viewed with regret. Did she then continue these reforms, or instead tolerate existing changes but no more? More complicated still, should Sophia merge the two in a desperate attempt to reconciliate two wildly opposing ideologies?

As the snow increased in fury to now blind all beneath its freezing pall, the one hundredth and first Governor-General pressed her forehead upon the cool glass, and sighed.

The sound of voices in dissent roused Melyanna from her restless sleep. Turning without the natural grace so often attributed to her race she regarded wearily the familiar form of the apothecary engaged in discussion with a newcomer- Kaeneian yet adorned within a robe of cold blue, somehow lending a chill to her fatigued bones though in reality the temperature remained constant.

“The procedure is nothing more than experimental…”

Swinging her legs down from bed to floor, she unsteadily closed upon the duo.

”It offers hope where before there stood only despair…”

Melyanna still did not understand whatever it was that could elicit the relatively heated debate, to Kaeneian standards, currently in process. Her eyes widened only when the relative stranger gestured to the paralysed Killthanus to illustrate a point or reason and he continued only as long as it took the Elf to close the distance and interrupt-

”If it concerns my beloved, it concerns me apothecary.” She said resolutely, even as the medic formed words of rebuttal.

“Lady Melyanna, the Department Scientia brings a possible solution to your difficult plight.” Announced the blue clad Kaeneian.

Turning to face him, she instantly suppressed the wave of joy at hearing that which her dreams had held at such tantalising closeness to her grieving soul. She fixed a stare upon knowledgeable eyes and spoke firmly.

”Speak of this, but I beg of you not to fill my heart with false hope.”

”Our previous attempts at safeguarding the life of Minister Killthanus have been limited to repairing the existing neural damage to a state approximating normal function, too late did we look into transferring consciousness and even then to technology not best suited in the available timeframe.”

Crossing to the isolation cot, he gestured at one of the many data screens displaying sadly unchanging physiological statistics.

”Are you familiar with the science of isomorphic projection?”

Melyanna hesitated, before nodding. ”The science of generating three dimensional and interactive images. I have seen some in operation within the interactive data nodes of the Aengelistoria Dominica central library.”

The Kaeneian nodded. ”It is a relatively new field of study, having only recently been adjudged sufficiently advanced to deserve a dedicated field name. However that is irrelevant, it is what the promises of this technology’s future application may bring- The rewards that research and simple trial and error bring.”

”I’m afraid I don’t understand.” She sighed, rather impatiently.

”The true barrier in current isomorphic study is the computational storage limit- Our current interface and storage systems can hold only a very limited amount of data and still access it quickly enough to allow for the uses the technology promises to be feasible. However recent advancements of a quite-ground breaking nature have boosted that storage limit and now make what I propose within reach.”

Melyanna began to grow exasperated. ”What is it you propose precisely?

The Kaeneian turned, so that he might deliver the startling opportunity directly.

“I propose the electronic duplication of the Minister’s entire neural network, and subsequent storage in a specifically constructed network for isomorphic generation.”

”A hologram?” She asked simply.

The Kaeneian nodded. ”In time, perhaps the technology can be refined further to allow superior quality of life- I solemnly believe it is our only viable option Lady Melyanna.”

The Elf turned to the apothecary, who had remained silent until now. Seeing the questioning gaze cast in his direction, he finally added his opinion.

”It is almost entirely theoretical Lady, and there are countless variables that remain totally unaddressed. Additionally there are very obvious limitations to the isomorphic representation- It will be unable to interact with the physical universe save the items specifically created for such a unique use. I am totally unable to ascertain at this stage the psychological repercussions of such a fundamental change in the state of existence for Minister Killthanus.”

Casting a glance towards the afore mentioned, he concluded simply- ”It may prolong his life, but I cannot condone it as a means of restoration, though equally in my duty to defeat disease and malfunction I cannot deny the usefulness of the procedure. I must also take into account such factors as relevancy to the patient and his role within our society.”

Melyanna looked downwards, steadying her nerve. ”Your decision?”

The apothecary pondered for a moment, only the automated respirators breaking the silence with their methodical hiss.

“I am left with little other choice- We shall undertake this procedure.”


Function over form was an integral part of the Kaeneian design philosophy- Aesthetics were a secondary concern appearing more through coincidence and accident than any deliberate consideration of style. It was therefore beyond doubt that the design ethos would be aghast at the state of the traditionally impeccably precise isolation cot within the centre of the medical bay.

Surrounding the cradle machines of various heights stood. Some bristled with displays of nauseating rotating lights- Row upon row of runes that glowed and flickered and warped to new hues depending on input and status. From these curious constructions snake-like conduits sprung and created a maze of piping that ran across the spotless flooring linking up once more on the other side with equally baffling electronics.

Suspended hastily from the roof an articulated arm extended down into the isolation cot itself, conduits supplying energy remaining upon the roof only so long as it took to clear the cot before dropping to the sharply to join its brethren upon the floor. At the end of this arm hung not a grasping arm, but a crescent of steel- Each extreme end of this crescent a bulging cylinder whose split sides glowed with an almost eerie blue.

Negotiating the maze, the blue-clad Kaeneian gently manipulated the crescent-attached arm downwards, until the former was secured tightly around the forehead of Killthanus. From there a sequence was triggered and the ghostly blue light began to pulse, slowly at first though clearly accelerating. From bedside Melyanna observed cautiously, casting a glance through the nearby observation window. Snow fell as it did so frequently, yet the sky had grown dark- Many hours had passed since this new hope had been planted in her heart and it had taken precious hours to set the complex equipment in place.

”We must now wait for the electronic interface to successfully establish a link directly into the Minister’s neural pathways. This is a critical element of the procedure- An error now will mean incomplete or imprecise duplication and all shall have been in vain, for we do not have sufficient time remaining to attempt this again.”

As though a sentry on guard the apothecary continued vigil at a monitoring station nearby, his face an unreadable mask that allowed none to decipher true feeling or motivations. Melyanna found this incredibly comforting oddly, for she found that the hope she continued to hold could feel no setback or blow from sorrow upon his face or creased brow.

The cycling blue of the interface began to slow, until it held a steady, cobalt hue.

”The interface has been established- We are ready to commence duplication. Apothecary, what of the Minister’s vital signs?”

Allowing his hand to traverse over the bank of controls, the medic spoke- ”Our equipment is now at the very limit of effective capacity, and our time is extremely short. I cannot now give an accurate time until expiration but each moment wasted increases the chance that he will not live sufficiently long enough to complete the process- Time is of the essence.”

Reacting instantly, the Kaeneian science adept placed his hand upon the rune of activation. Pausing to allow a final visual confirmation that all was ready, he pushed downwards, a soft tone almost sighing from the assembled machines and indicating the beginning of the duplication.

”Neural activity is slowing.” Announced the apothecary, ”I shall attempt to compensate.”

His counterpart remained silent, eyes fixed firmly on data screens pouring information totally unrecognisable to Melyanna, whom watched the situation whilst her stomach twisted in anxiety.

”I am refining the data stream, we may require additional time.” He stated.

The apothecary seemed to sigh almost at such an announcement. ”I cannot give you such, electrical activity in the brainstem is now falling below safety parameters. Can the duplication speed be increased?”

The second Kaeneian shook his head. ”I dare not force the transfer rate- Even the slightest error would render the duplicate utterly useless. A single corruption of even microscopic proportions will lead to a larger problem that our abilities cannot comprehend nor treat.”

An urgent tone drew the apothecary’s attention back to his console. ”Support equipment can no longer regulate basic autonomic function. Breathing has become dangerously erratic, pulse dropping sharply.”

Nodding, the science adept made adjustments possible in the time allowed- ”We need but a few more minutes.”

Melyanna watched in horror as Killthanus rose from the bed- His limbs tied down securely to prevent movement of the interface but his chest rising sharply as though he were prodded painfully in the spine. He remained taut for a few seconds, before dropping limply and resuming utter silence. She noted with numbness the lack of hissing she had so come to expect from the automated respirators.

The apothecary stepped from his console. ”Cardiac arrest has occurred, and whilst the duplication continues I cannot utilise electrical shocking to resume circulatory function. Support equipment is now redundant- Brian death will occur in approximately six minutes.”

”I am increasing transfer rate- We have little other chance now.”

Melyanna stood frozen as the already pale flesh of her love faded to ash, the last vestiges of life departing the prison of flesh and allowed finally free to merge with that which induced all life to sadly end eventually. She stumbled backwards into a chair and sat, shocked.

The apothecary now consulted a monitor mounted a few inches above the slack, staring eyes of Killthanus.

”Neural activity has dropped below the minimum range of our scanning equipment.”

Turning to now occupy the station he had previously abandoned, the Kaeneian medic pushed a rune set apart from others and marked a depressing black. A moment elapsing before a series of short beeps ended with a drawn out whine.

”Death occurred at twenty one hundred hours, on the twenty sixth sunrise of the year Earth Ascension five hundred and twenty.”

All eyes bar one pair turned to the interface mounted upon the corpse lying ahead. Taking a few seconds to consult the panels in front of him, the tech adept turned to regard his counterpart and Melyanna.

”It is done.” He said though no triumph was evident despite the success.




The blackness seemed unending; a permanent blanket of ignorance that robbed the senses of all input and left the soul tumbling through the immateria without guidance or direction. Not even conscious thought accompanied as the far-reaching silence encompassed all before it and promised only agony and forgetfulness.

A rending light, a painful flash of such searing intensity that not even its colour was recognisable. Against the bleak background it was made altogether more visible and though it seemed to pass instantaneously it left an imprint upon the retina not easily passed up. Again it tore through the void, bringing not enlightenment but a suffering that more existed beyond such simplistic surroundings but seemed as inaccessible and hostile as the first.

Now it took up residence, points within the black where the blanket of ignorance was challenged and pushed back- As stars born and casting their light outwards into an expectant and virtually silent universe. These lights became commonplace, some merging with others and creating larger patches until the colour threatened to replace the blackness as uniform feature.

The brightness grew too great to withstand, and soon blindness resulted. The last few seconds of semi-coherent thought absorbed into this bizarre explosion of energy and light that consumed all and left no clue as to why, or how. As the senses had been silenced before, so they were now- Deaf, dumb and blind.

Killthanus bolted upright, his hands immediately covering eyes that were no more blinded than he might expect of a deep sleep indulged. Pausing momentarily, he cast his gaze about unfamiliar surroundings, frowning.

The room was square in form, dominated by a floor to ceiling conduit whose thickness was considerably more than half his own height and which stood directly in the centre. About this conduit at waist level a sprawling circular bed of control panels sprouted, a myriad bank of flashing lights and status runes that from this distance Killthanus could not hazard a guess at the function of.

Standing, he gazed back at the unremarkable, grey bed he had occupied a moment before. As he stepped forward he froze, his higher functions asking of his being a simple and rather vital question.

Precisely how had he returned from the dead?

His last conscious thoughts- Of Melyanna’s hand in his own, of her tears and promises discussed. Of his inherent difficulty with emotions, and his own declaration of love for her never ending through life, and death- The blackness that came to take his resisting self and tore him from the bosom of his Lady’s love into nightmarish nothing.

Yet he stood here, now- Alive.

Crossing towards the centrally located controls, his gaze settled upon the roof-mounted data screens- Occupied with scrolling lines of coding that Killthanus had never before seen, let alone comprehended in an entirety that could allow a guess at purpose. Stepping to the consoles surrounding, he extended his hands and brought them to the runes seemingly indicating access.

His eyes widened as his flesh simply dissipated on contact with the smooth metal, the phalanges of his fingers coruscating slightly as they lost all physical form and disappeared into the inner workings of the console. Pushing further forwards until all five fingers and the entirety of his palm had seemingly vanished he remained silent with astonishment- His mind unable to comprehend this peculiar state of affairs.

Withdrawing his unstable limb, he watched as the palm, digits and fingertips reformed flawlessly. No evidence of their physically impossible jaunt through the metal remained, and all was as it should. Stepping backwards, he examined the limb with his other hand, finding again no error or flaw.

As he gazed down he noticed with increasing tension his chest did not rise, and fall in such vital action as to draw oxygen in to his body. In a fit of disregard for the laws of biology and physics his flesh had seemingly decided against that which it needed most to simply function, and exist.

Before he could question these impossibilities further, the door to the chamber opened. He recognised instantly the Kaeneian who entered first, followed by the tear-stained form of his beloved, his lady, Melyanna.

”What has happened to me?” He asked flatly.

The apothecary took a moment to consult the console ahead before addressing the shocked Kaeneian before him. ”I regret Minister that we failed to locate a means to repair the neural trauma suffered by your cognitive functions, and that we were unable to prevent your physical passing. In order so that you might still live on, your consciousness was essentially duplicated and placed within a prototype isomorphic projection interface.”

Killthanus struggled, his words stuttering. ”I have passed?”

The apothecary nodded. ”In the strictly medical sense, indeed. You are however to all intents and purposes surviving in another state of existence outside of flesh, and blood. “

Melyanna now chose to step out from the shadow of the taller humanoid. She fixed red-raw eyes upon a sight much longed for and yearned. Stretching an arm outwards, she allowed an outstretched fingertip to fall upon the cheek of Killthanus. She suppressed the urge to flinch as the cheek began to fluctuate- The integrity of the projection field compromised by her well intentioned intrusion.

”I have missed you my beloved.” He said, relishing her touch though in the literal sense of the word, he could feel it no more than she could feel his.

”Words cannot convey my feelings.” She replied, ”For deep was my sorrow at losing you my love, deep and foreboding. Whilst I know it pains you to learn now that you are not as you once were, fear not. Technology will progress as we demand it, and I shall find a way, we shall find a way to make you whole once more. Our hearts cannot be separated by any physical barriers placed in our way- We are one.”

The apothecary exited silently- Recognising the need for privacy. Though they could not touch, he suspected much remained to discuss. Though in time to come Killthanus would undoubtedly grow weary of such limited existence in the here and now it was a blessing unrivalled- To gaze upon that whom claimed his love and simply here her sorrow free voice ring with delight.

For now, he would endure.

They would endure.

The screen blinked dutifully as once more information was displayed in updated form, the scrolling lines of text fading into obscurity as the limit of display was reached and the oldest such lines faded from view into technological bleakness. The words were not for Humanoid eyes to understand easily; complex lines of programming code fluctuated constantly to represent new and fantastical developments, yet consistently remained within the boundaries of feasibility.

Killthanus stared at such code, not simply a processing function but a vital necessity to his continued well being and indeed actual existence. For where most of his people could find simple reassurance at their continued life through pulse or heartbeat, he would feel no more the pounding rush of crimson through fragile arteries; the almost throbbing pulse of such a vital and central organ as the heart, indeed once thought of as the home of the soul itself.

Only the truly titanic exertions of the technology surrounding kept Killthanus in existence, ensuring his hold on reality was though tenuous at the very least real, and palpable. Raising his arm slowly, he began to push his hand towards the screen, until fingertips were precariously close to touching. As they ached to make contact the very tip of the furthest extended digit began to waiver, as though a pebble thrown amongst the gentle and lapping waters of a lake might ripple violently. Distorting with physical obviousness, the flesh first lost pale hue; bright cobalt blue replacing the tones of the living and beginning to surge towards the wrist.

Secondly, and most evidently the finger did not make physical contact with the screen as should be expected. Instead taking leave to lose all semblance of structure, skewering as a shadow might be cast in place of light interrupted; followed quickly in number as other fingers felt the impossibility discovered by the first in making simple contact with the physical. Still Killthanus pushed on however, until the entire palm was obscured in a haze of shuddering multi-coloured light which prevented even him from now gazing upon the information contained upon the monitor.

At this point even the cuff of his unremarkable tunic began to lose cohesion, shimmering from previously uniform grey to an intense and almost photo-fluorescent purple. Realising the futility in the endeavour Killthanus withdrew the limb, and it returned to as it had been before; no evidence remaining to suggest that what lay beneath the flesh was any more remarkable than the blood and sweat of any other creature.

A hiss permeated the hum of instrumentation as the doorway exiting the chamber, previously sealed opened efficiently to admit the familiar figure of the Apothecary. Flanked on one side by the recognisable form of the tech-adept responsible for the procedure that allowed him the courtesy to exist at this moment, Killthanus straightened.

“Greetings Killthanus, how does your day progress?”

The former Governor-General frowned, more at the lack of pre-title afforded in the opening courtesy. “Is it to simply be Killthanus now, Apothecary?”

“Unfortunately during your illness, the Aengelistoria Dominica saw fit to declare the office of Governor-General of the Serene^Union empty, and subsequently appointed Sophia Byzainti as replacement. Furthermore your previous subordinate, one Julianna Hess has been made Supreme Overseer for the Ministry of Intelligence in your absence- You are without official department title or name.”

Killthanus nodded, feeling a heavy weight upon his heart grow more debilitating. “It seems as though the majority, including myself were prepared for death. It seems almost an inconvenience to have endured at all.”

The blue-garbed tech-adept stepped forward, “Do not disparage the sheer wonder beneath your continued life. It is a testament to the technological abilities of the Department Scientia that you are able to walk onwards, talk once more and convey the spirit of your being from a place not beyond this mortal coil.”

“I do not believe you understand fully what it is to live, adept.” Killthanus replied almost silently.

“You must understand, Killthanus.” Began the Apothecary, “You stand upon the very frontier of technology- Indeed you represent the very limit of the ability of the Serene^Union to deny death final victory, and as such I implore you to remember that limitations take time to overcome, and in such time quality of existence for you will improve.”

Killthanus turned from the Kaeneians assembled, to look upon the chair that represented his sole access to furniture; laying a hand upon the smooth metal frame he took small comfort in its willingness to interact with him and in turn in some fashion reassure his existence as real. Yet for all the solidarity it demonstrated the chair was as without substance as he, a non-event within the physical universe and no more believable to those gathered near as a spirit departed or other non-corporeal event.

“Is this chair real?” Killthanus asked simply.

The Apothecary seemed momentarily taken aback; “It is an event within this reality- How much more real can it be?”

Without warning, Killthanus seized the chair and lifted it into the air; without the mass afforded to its weightier and palpable cousin it was an easy achievement. Swinging his arms quickly he released, allowing the piece of furniture to careen towards the two Kaeneians with a speed too deadly to facilitate an avoidance.

The tech-adept did not even so much as offer a grimace as the facsimile passed through his body, simply dissolving into an arcing pattern of intense light which only resembled that which might be strong enough to act as seating once it had comfortably cleared his presence; impacting against the boundaries of the isomorphic projection grid as a real chair might impact a wall- Falling to the floor with a loud clatter.

“Real as you say Apothecary, yet not so threatening as to receive even a reflex? How can I reconcile this life to my own previously if I am nothing more than that chair? How can one even accurately label this life?”

“A crude demonstration,” Was the only response.

Killthanus shot back almost instantly, “An apt one.”

“We can achieve little more today,” summed the tech-adept. “We shall return at a later date.”

The door slid open hastily to allow the duo to leave, though Killthanus had ceased to regard them in voice or sight prior to their departure. Sighing loudly the former Governor-General strode forward, retrieving the fallen chair slowly and hauling it once more to the centre of the room. Slowly sinking to sit upon it his attention drifted once more to the monitors arranged in a circular circumference.

“Command access; display cerebral processing output on monitor.”

The previously blank screen erupted to life, as groupings of circles took residence upon the bottom of the monitor. Each of these circles was not however complete, a small incision allowing two-dimensional tubes to descend from the upper area and interface; admitting streams of code which filtered at wildly varying speeds into the circles and then disappeared from view.

“To which circle do I owe my dreams, or my fears? Which stream of code even represents this train of thought? It is not for the eyes of a Kaeneian to see his very consciousness displayed as thoughts come to the fore for pondering, nor natural to gaze upon a window into his very soul. Can I look upon my reflection and know truly it is Killthanus who stares back? I cannot shake the feeling that I am no more than a computer simulation of a spirit now passed and deceased- No longer for this mortal coil yet heinously duplicated in a half-desperate attempt to deny fate.”

“Data degradation reminder; isomorphic projection cannot be sustained beyond safety parameters. Physical generation will terminate in one minute.”

Standing, Killthanus absorbed the emotionless announcement from the resident electronic intelligence with similar reaction-devoid acceptance. Yet another imposition against normal existence was the inability of this cutting edge technology to maintain his matrix for any longer than fifteen hours in any one given day- Data degradation issues becoming a danger to maintaining cohesion and forcing him to experience a dreamless slumber. Before him the chair so solid moments ago began to flicker, as though the atoms that contributed to the steel frame had grown bored of such predictable molecules and themselves had begun to depart in earnest. This flickering grew steadily worse over passing seconds until the very structure was unrecognisable and opaqueness allowed Killthanus to view the non-descript flooring.

Such a state of affairs did not last for an appreciable period of time, with the chair leaving the visible spectrum almost immediately afterwards. Killthanus scarcely had the time to once more admire the space created when the electronic intelligence governing his existence made a second harsh statement:

“Terminating isomorphic projection.”

Torn as he was, Killthanus experienced relatively blissful silence as he faded from existence, and knew no more.

Melyanna fidgeted nervously as she awaited the return of the clerk whom had bid her wait a few minutes before, flicking a handful of her long raven tresses from over shoulder to behind. Satisfied for the time being that her composure was as it should be—composed and never betraying a stray feeling—she was content to sit still for a moment. Folding idle hands back into her lap she stared at the seemingly ever-stretching grand corridor, and the imposing form of the doorway into the office of the Governor-General, the ultimate legislative authority within the Serene^Union.

A supreme authority the Elven Lady was here to converse with.

“The Governor-General will see you now, Lady Melyanna.”

Standing in respect of the statement, she nodded visibly; thanking the clerk for his time spent assisting her. Stepping forwards, Melyanna negotiated the small crack between the massive doors which led into the chamber. Her eyes immediately settled upon the tiny figure of one Sophia Byzainti, seated at a sweeping desk and surrounded by a tedious mountain of data nodes demanding her attention and frustrating; neither too unimportant to delegate nor vital enough to fully deserve her undivided attention. All this framed by an impressive bay window which by virtue of the great elevation enjoyed by the Spire, allowed for a spectacular view of the capital Solarri.

“I am sorry to intrude, Governor-General Byzainti, I made every effort to ensure you were not overwhelmed with other tasks before seeking your time.”

Sophia rose her head slowly, eyes still fixed upon the final lines of text on a data node she held between fingertips, even as motion stopped to announce her neck could tilt no further upwards comfortably. Imprinting her thumb against the validation square at the bottom of the document, she discarded the node into an obvious pile of perused reports—finally gifting the Elf with the attention she sought.

“It is of no inconvenience, Melyanna.” Replied Sophia, dispensing with the normal formalities in favour of first-name basis, common amongst those of the Aengelistoria Dominica, where such stiff regulation was not necessary and indeed proved stifling to duty.

“I do not believe we have spoken since my elevation to the office of Governor-General,” She continued. “I am both pleased we are able to speak and apprehensive; I know indeed it is not often you seek council for there is little beyond your ability to solve.”

Stepping forward towards an offered seat, the younger women eased downwards. “I am here to discuss Killthanus, Governor-General.”

“Sophia is sufficient, such a grandiose title is not appropriate between friends.”

Melyanna nodded, “I am concerned for his wellbeing Sophia; I have seen the Apothecary’s report and it fills me with worry.”

The Kaeneian seemed lost for a moment in consideration, as though searching for a fact mentioned. “Yes, I too have made myself familiar with the medical records—of which I find few to be pleasing if one considers the progress originally vaunted to occur.”

Melyanna clasped her hands together tightly, bringing them up against exasperated lips. “I do not know what to do Sophia, I feel as though somehow I have let him down by failing to guide him through this ordeal; as though I am somehow responsible in part for his suffering.”

Shaking her head, the Governor-General immediately interjected; “I do not think that to be the case for a moment, Melyanna. What Killthanus had undergone is literally soul-wrenching in nature, and few can truly comprehend what it means to transgress the physical in such a way as he has. The science which enabled his survival could be considered magic by the very same people who instigated it, and unfortunately as is the way with technology, it is often implemented before the creators are fully mature enough to handle the unforeseen consequences.”

Pausing long enough to sip a glass of warmed water, and offer such to Melyanna whom declined politely, she continued.

“I do not believe anymore could be asked of you, for already you are at his side for as long as his matrix can run without undertaking deleterious decay. When he questions the very fundamentals of his existence, you are there to provide answers; comforting and securing. When he is unable to cope with the burden of his limitations, you are there to disprove the need for them; whether your own feelings are hurt or not. Truly you carry as large a trouble as he Lady, yet there is but the concern of friends such as myself for you to rely upon in turn.”

“I endure,” Replied Melyanna quietly.

“Insufficient,” Retorted Sophia. “Enduring is not tantamount to living; despite what our society might seem to indicate or appears to condone. You must see to your own wellbeing Melyanna—Killthanus will benefit little if you are too ill or sick with worry to in turn comfort him.”

The Elf nodded, though the Kaeneian simply sighed aloud.

“You acknowledge, but do not heed my words.” Sophia replied, taking a second sip of the water and wiping the heat-generated perspiration from the surface of the glass. “However I will continue to repeat them, until I can no longer formulate words or you finally carry out what you say aloud. I anticipate the former sadly before I have the pleasure of the latter.”


The void was discomforting to Killthanus, as he regarded the inky blackness of his enforced prison with silent contemplation. Not even the caress of wind broke the stifling, monotonous existence he endured; neither too cold nor hot, neither too hard or too soft in texture. Such mindless repetition tested the stability of his intellect tremendously, and he felt little impetus to fight for success in such a test.

He could see neither his arms nor legs; the entirety of his body seemingly taken, only a non-corporeal ghost remaining behind which saw, and understood but could make no speech nor step. In truth he could not tell if his eyes truly did see, or if the overwhelming black was more a result of genuine blindness robbing him of one of the last avenues to prosper.

A blinding flash brought quick answer, as Killthanus was sent tizzy with activity. He watched the streak of energy burrow past him violently, before arcing into the distance where even its brilliant glow eventually faded as distance became negotiable no longer. Before a confused intellect could ponder, a second and third flash followed, rending the void apart with pyrotechnical wonder and giving the bored Kaeneian much to analyse if a break in the furious activity was forthcoming.

Fortunately for sanity, such a pause was unwilling to make itself apparent, and soon the surging energy made itself a permanent fixture; forming into complex and weaving lines of traffic which moved from origin unknown to destination equally mysterious. Killthanus no longer felt content and instead tried to reach out and touch such phenomenon, to truly bring the undiscovered into a sharper focus that might gift him more knowledge.

The former Governor-General shook his head in amazement as he heard the clinking of glasses raised in toast as crisply as if the Kaeneian were in attendance—more so when realisation dawned that it was his own arm held aloft in celebration, glass in hand. Killthanus attempted to turn his head to view his surroundings, but found his vision locked as though the course of his gaze was already plotted and executed as he pondered.

Faces stood in toast around, and he recognised immediately the identities of the gathered Supreme-Overseers of the Aengelistoria Dominica. A short distance to his right, the most senior individual in Christiansen Meridiaa nodded his approval even as the startled Kaeneian heard his own voice begin to recite an obviously pre-prepared speech. It was only after he gazed upon the oddly young features of Sophia Byzainti, that he comprehended what it was he saw and seemed to participate in—His assumption of the Office of Governor-General of the Serene^Union.

Killthanus’ intellect did not require long to create a hypothesis: clearly the energy he had observed was in fact the result of his own matrix formulating the neurological processes of the computer system into something he could comprehend and manipulate—an occurrence due more to the complexity of the program that constituted his being than a deliberate intention of design. He had somehow been able to access these memories at will, clearly showing he retained a deep-seated ability to manipulate even the environment of the computer during his inactive hours.

Asserting his will, the memory before him faded into the familiar blackness, laced with the high-speed transmission of the energy, or now-realised computer processes. Concentrating, Killthanus attempted a far more active implementation of his will upon the system, seeking to override its most fundamental laws in an effort to explore limitations.

“System malfunction—unscheduled activation of isomorphic projectors.”

Stretching out his hands even as they shimmered from mirage-like opaqueness to solidified reality, Killthanus felt a new sense of control assert itself. No longer was he a mere simulation of a spirit departed, whose appearance and interactions were dictated by machine; no longer feeling as a cutting-edged piece of technology rather than simply feeling alive, and worthwhile.

Killthanus felt limited purpose rush into his life as the surging torrents of a river long dammed might explode through drying bed once released from servitude. Though he felt tremendous sorrow still cloud his existence, vital control thought lost over such fundamental factors as his waking hours was wrested back into his own grasp. Now in the very least, he would not be at the beck and call of the myriad scientific minds whom plagued him incessantly whenever they felt desire to converse with what might be termed a technological miracle.

It was not that Killthanus harboured ill will to those responsible for his new-found state, or wished them harm. His initial and still-felt anger stemmed from the limitations of his form, and not as a thankless attack upon the efforts of the Department Scientia. However many of their number did not view the unique Kaeneian as much beyond a tool of learning and advancement, to be studied at their leisure or when they believed benefit could be garnered.

Killthanus was not a project to be tinkered with and examined—he was as deserving of freedom and liberty as any sentient creature within the borders of the Serene^Union, and if the well-intentioned but seemingly utterly misguided scientists of his procreation could not come to understand this, he would simply take such matters into his own hands.