Chosen Mate Ch. 08

It was a long, stretched, half-ovoid shape; the slightly flattened bottom curved up to meet the sides of the craft. The thrust tube, centered near the bottom of the craft, terminated at the end in the same configuration as the others. Three short triangular tail fins, at the rear, sprouted around the uniquely controllable nozzle of its steering. It turned, horizontally then vertically, giving all a close look at the alien looking craft. The contracted wings expanded and were manipulated by Leonard in a variety of configurations.

--This craft has the greatest benefit of the three. Its control surfaces are able to mimic those of airborne creatures. ...From the floating of a butterfly... It spiraled around the room with expanded wings, moving upward quietly. ...To the stoop of a hunting hawk; it turned downward, high above, and dropped like an arrow rapidly, wings folded against its body. It expanded its wings, curling them inward, to cup the air and bring itself to a halt over the heads of the council. They exclaimed as the displaced air of its sudden deceleration played briefly over them. It made a few more passes of the hall, demonstrating its speed and agility, then floated to where the team began packing it up for storage.

--This model would make a superlative fighter. The obvious advantage would be the ability to avoid the close ground limitation of conventional airframes that are bound by high weight and inertia, forcing them to use power and flight surfaces to keep aloft. He paused. ...I will conclude with a summation of our thoughts and recomendations with your permission, Lord Sand.

Leonard waited while the group drew close together in conversation. Excitement radiated from them in mental waves of conjecture and anticipation. At last, Daniel broke away from the group.

--Continue Leonard. You have given us much to contemplate; my mate calls me to lunch and there is still one other matter before we adjourn. Light chuckling laughter accompanied his final words as Leonard collected his thoughts and began his summation.

--The advantages of these LTA's are unprecedented. To use Oldman's words, 'They are not just bags of air pushed around the sky', but true aircraft, capable of complex, coordinated movement. In addition to their use as offensive weapons, they possess a stealth capability that will greatly increase covert operations and allow extended loitering times as those operations are enjoined. He looked at Harry. ...If used for conventional methods of mass transportation, they would be very safe, except in catastrophic accidents such as collisions with established airframes. He paused once more and continued.

--There are some problems with high altitudes, such as the rupture of the gas envelope, but even in this event the craft would retain its aerodynamic capability and be able to descend safely. This brings up another interesting observation.

--None of these models have the traditional landing gear found in conventional airframes; it is thought that not only are they not needed, but unnecessary for any future use; the weight reduction of mechanical devices to deploy and retract them, and the reduction of drag co-efficient from fixed configuration is most desirable. The one instance in which they would be advantageous would be a careful mimicking of accepted craft in an attempt to disguise the true nature of their abilities.

--In conclusion, these are difficult to control in windy conditions; the incorporation of microprocessor augmentation of the controls is very highly recommended, especially in the last model we demonstrated which will be the most expensive to construct. Propulsion and weapon payload weights should be very carefully considered in its final configuration. As to simple logistics, we recommend acquiring extensive hanger facilities and privately owned airfields, preferably in as remote areas as possible, before prototypes of any manned craft are constructed. I would add that no one outside of our people should be allowed to view these craft. Leonard stopped with a half bow and waited.

--I think we will adjourn now with one short ceremony. Daniel said. ...Har ri na, join me in service at the second step.

--Think we'll jump again? Oldman laughed, as Harry's eyes moved from Leonard to Daniel.

Harry put his helmet on his head, sealing it to the laughter of the encircling council, then moved to the circle of white stone unhesitatingly and awaited Daniels approach with Gerry, who held a carved wooden box that he opened before him. Daniel removed a glassine object from the box with his right hand then held it high on Harry's arm and held his left to Harry.

--Clasp my hand. Harry took the proffered hand. Daniel began glowing brightly as his aura became blindingly apparent with crackling energy. ...This ceremony was neglected last night during the presentation of mating. The people were in such a hurry to see their beloved Princess mated, and our times of celebration have been few.

He glowed stronger; the energy about him flowed along his arm and into his hand, that shimmered like the forge of a blacksmith. Harry felt the heat through the suit as the round medallion melted and flowed into the material of the suit becoming a rosette of fins and scales.

--Here is the mark of my service that shows all that you are bound to the command and duty of the Shining People. Daniel moved back to the box and returned with a second object in his left hand and extended his right. Harry took without instruction. Daniel again glowed intensely.

--This if the mark of favor and accomplishment, awarded for your gift of these craft. Their conception in your dreams will be a pivot point in the fortunes of the Shining People. The medallion melted and fused into an identical mark on his right arm. ...Go now in my service and favor to free our people from persecution. He turned, walking away to his waiting councilors. Harry called after him.

--Wait Daniel, excuse me, Lord Sand, I mean. Daniel turned with an inquisitive look in his eye, saying.

--There is no need to stand on ceremony here. Speak freely to me of your thoughts or concerns. Harry sighed and began.

--There is much in my mind that will never be known. My dreams are like a well that is dipped from by the bucket of my thoughts; the bucket has an ever-changing form that may sooth my thirst or drown me with inundations. The water of that well is mostly sweet but occasionally the taste is bitter, as is the knowledge of all the craft is capable of. Daniel nodded and spoke with sorrow in his thoughts and deep feelings for all races and creatures.

--We desire these things neither but our people would be free of hiding. His eyes moved to the waiting Fay by the dais with many questions in their minds and made to join them.

--Daniel, my friend, there is more I must say. Harry called, then paused as the quirking smile and inquisitive eyebrows turned to him once again.

--There is a task I must perform before beginning those you have set before me. I believe that it would be in the best interest of the people. I cannot tell you but it concerns my dreams and the hill behind my shop and something else seen, that was unseen, until it was seen. He said in reference to the green armor of the hill.

--There may be some danger also, Oldman said.

--You call me friend, Daniel began, and searched Harry's eyes. ... I reply in kind, for a friend is admired and trusted. But tell me; Does Sandra know of these dreams?

--We've told no one, Lord Sand. Harry's worry for his sanity has concerned him; it was assuaged by Sandra's declaration; that development has kept him busy this past week. Oldman chuckled. ...We must do this alone.

--No. Harry said. We need one more.

--If you're thinking of taking Sandra then you can leave me here. Daniels eyebrows knit for a moment then he guffawed in a hearty laugh, his humor turned with him to those waiting.

--Who will hold Oldman's mind for him while Harry goes to the hilltop? Startlement came from the thoughts and bodies of the council as they seemed to shy back toward the safety of the dais. Daniel mirrored his delighted laugh again, turning to the pair before him. His raised brow contemplated the presence of Oldman.

--No volunteers Quick Wit. He looked to Gerry's serene visage. ...Who do you require then, if not my daughter? Gerry would go if asked. I think he likes his position on your left.

--I will take Mira with your permission Lord.

--She has attached herself to Sandra, but she may go if she so desires. How will you prevent Sandra from going with you?

--We were hoping you could help us with that. By the way, Sandra's on her way here as soon as they find a spot to park near the bar, Oldman informed him casually.

--They? Questioned Harry, looking at Gerry's and Daniels pained expressions.

--Yes. said Gerry, as he searched in his mind. ...We're about to be graced with the rest of the family. Daniel whirled into movement, turning to command.

--Leo nar di, raise a table; call for food and drink; brothers come. A wave to the council brought them toward the raised table; they created seats about it in comfortable arrangements that revealed the structure of their group as certain Fay seemed to congregate together.

--Break out the first model and bring the control while I prepare the table. He began raising bumps on the tabletop. The sand moved under his hands, deftly molding the grains that were soon recognized as the topography around Harry's house. Then he sat back to look at it; a cup of ale was placed in his hand.

--Does that seem correct? I did not study long the contours and there were many, anyone? He looked around the room as he stood resting his hand on the wide flat rim surrounding the simulation. One of Leonard's team came forward, moving his hands over the table, then stepped away.

--Yes, that's it; I must go there. Harry said, leaning forward and placing a finger on spot high on the hill; it glowed red with his touch.

--How long will this take for you to perform this task, Harry? Can you give me an estimate? Oldman and Harry looked into each others thoughts.

--May we confer for a moment, Lord, Oldman said, stopping Harry from replying. Daniel waved a mental hand of acceptance, looking to a kindly looking Fay across the table.

--Store this and bring up the west and the river valleys. He talked while marking points of interest on the new map. Harry and Oldman retreated to a private room in their thoughts.

--Why are we doing this? Harry asked, anxious to be away and end the mystery that haunted them.

--What are you planning? Just walk up there and yell for him?

--I was thinking more on the lines of a quiet knock. Harry said as his thoughts moved to the problem.

--Hello, anybody home, Oldman mocked. ...that's your big idea? And why include Mira? Let's bring the troops; there's enough of them around.

--No, you don't see. What would you do if armed men were standing at your front door?

--Sure wouldn't let them in, given the choice. Okay, I understand your reasoning, but what if he's not a friendly person?

--Let's hope the troops aren't far off, Harry said. If all else fails, run like hell. They were interrupted.

--Ale, Har ri na? He turned, accepting drink and found Mira's lavender globe floating there. He took the cup and raised it.

--Mira, I greet you. Do you know why you are here?

--Only that you require my service, Har ri na. She answered in a sincere thought.

--There may be danger, but we don't know exactly what. There may be much to tell afterwards. Oldman said, examining her thoughts closely.

--Or not, if the door cannot or will not be opened. Harry replied absently, as he cast about in search of an organized plan of action.

Mira looked to the man from whom the two thoughts spoke to her. Great things, mysterious things, followed him like puppies. She was curious to see what new dog crossed his path.

--I missed the excitement of the mating ceremony; if there is a chance of such, I will gladly go. As to the danger, I have run from the Black Ones before; I am swift. Her globular aura pulsed with pride, both from her declaration of speed and the honor of being selected to accompany the Dreamer into unknown adventure.

--Well that's settled. Oldman began, then added. ...Oh no.

***

Margay came through the portal of oaks and into the Great Hall with Sandra and Donna flanking her. They flew above the ground, not swiftly, but with a sedate ponderous approach that instilled a feeling of intimidation on him.

Harry drank from his cup; his mouth was suddenly dry as he felt the thoughts of Sandra about him and her eyes upon Mira. He looked over his cup to Daniel and Gerry and could see that they were both under the same scrutiny and were well acquainted with the tactic.

The three arrived at the table; their movement did not change, even as they began to walk instead of fly. Margay strode about the table, examining the occupants that were busy about it with food, drink, and conversation. Her eyes flickered to the model floating over the table, then settled on Daniel while Sandra and Donna enveloped the meeting and came near their mates.

--What mischief are you about Daniel? Her clear sweet thoughts inquired in honeyed interrogation as her shrewd eyes held his innocent silver ones. Donna had the same expression as she looked into Gerry's eyes that revealed nothing as he sipped from his cup; his free hand played in soft caresses about her waist with accustomed ease. Sandra's hand came to rest gently on Harry's shoulder. Oldman held his body tight but Harry's mind revealed his startled thoughts; her mind moved over his searching.

--We are examining the craft designed from Har ri na's drawings and speaking of its uses from which will spring great mischief. Daniel replied truthfully and smoothly.

--Leo nar di, demonstrate the craft. It began moving; Leonard began his narration again. Once more, the golden eyes flickered to it, and then moved about the council as she stalked around the table. Her eyes fell on Harry momentarily and he felt illuminated by the great golden searchlights of their gaze as it examined him then passed on. She came to a halt behind Daniel and played with his hair, smoothing it with nonchalance as she spoke again.

--Mischief enough, but that is not what I spoke of. What are the words the Oldman used Sandra?

--'There may be some danger.' Are the words I was told were used. I wouldn't know exactly, they came not from my mate. Her thoughts were accusing as they continued searching Oldman's presence.

--You spy on my council daughter? Daniel began, trying to change the subject with feigned outrage.

--We watch the interests of the people, Mate. Margay said gently. ...Our service of information is always needed. There is much that interests the people here. Daniel laughed and stood; his eyes passed over those at the table, and then rested on Harry.

--Har ri na, you see the true strength of the Shining People. He said as his cup indicated the three women with a gesture. ...Our ministry of information; there is little they do not know or ferret out in their service, no matter how trivial, once their interest falls on it. Way ne ah, restore the representation of Harry's interest and replay our conversation.

Wayne was the recorder of the meeting. He swiftly brought the topographical representation up on the table and replayed the conversations with a gauzy tapestry of mental images. Sandra watched intently.

--I understand and concur with all that has been said, but why do you refuse to allow me to come with you? There was some hurt in her thoughts as she communicated her feelings to him.

--You are my lifeline. You have saved me once from the depths of the shining paths. I believe our bond will do so again if needed. She glanced to Daniel and he nodded.

--If I cannot protect you from danger at least I can extract you from it. She said, moving over the representation of the hill, speaking quickly, marking positions on it, and issuing commands with an ease that gave Harry pause as he observed her.

--The command post will be here. Condition Alpha is to be implemented immediately; Mark time.

--Clock running, said the kindly faced Fay whose name was Wayne. The council were apparently members of the command structure also. They began relaying instructions in discrete private communication and conferring among themselves. The glowing lights of lesser Fay began to move around the hall in reaction to the activity that was occurring at the table.

--The warehouse under the shop will hold a fully armed heavy reactionary force standing by as events unfold. She placed a finger on the spot; it glowed green. ...call sign Sword. Leonards team will infiltrate from this road in normally disguised appearance with light hunting rifles and take position here as an O.P. so that the eastern approaches and the south side of the ridge are secured from unseen intrusion. Call sign Hawk. She traced lines of approach then dotted them with the position to be taken with a green spot. A second team will take place here on the western end of the ridge and deploy through the forested slopes there and hold to communicate any penetration through these heavily wooded areas... She looked to Gerry, receiving information or suggestions that were unheard by Harry.

--Call sign Badger. She continued. ...A mobile team here will patrol along the road that parallels the western approaches relaying any traffic. Again, a slight look to Gerry brought a response. ...Call sign Snake, She stopped and considered her deployments, then looked to her father. He nodded as his prideful eyes examined her.

--Maybe we should go ahead and tell her. Harry said privately to Oldman. He looked into her thoughts and decided that she just might double the force if he revealed all his knowledge.

--A little much for a walk in the woods don't you think? Oldman said sarcastically.

--Tell me of Harry's Dream and I will reduce the deployment of the people. She paused, her thought hard on Oldman. ...Or not. Silence stood between their thoughts in the middle of organized mayhem.

--Still mad I said nothing? Oldman said to her petulant presence. She turned her thoughts on him angrily.

--You still say nothing. Why do you not tell me, mate. She asked of Oldman, hurt evident in face and mind.

--I have held your secrets from Harry, should I have told him all that was evident to me?

--You have held secrets from me my lady? Harry asked. Oldman interrupted.

--Of course Harry. I've known from the first night you went out with her. My mind was shackled with yours then; I was bound by your sight and hearing. But I can see and hear what you do.

--Nonsense, Sandra said. There would be nothing to see; she was unsure and it showed in her face.

--That right sweetheart, but I did; from the first twitch of your pretty little ear to the wings on your tattoo. Your Father chastising Bob and Billy on the hill above the graveyard was a dead giveaway. Did you know how fast Billy can fly?

Sandra turned to her father then Donna and Margay. They gave a negating motion with their heads then looked accusingly at Daniel. Gerry's head was bowed; his features and thoughts were hidden.

Daniel stood, and looked about him in exasperation, then spat.

--Tattoo? Will we have a family quarrel in the middle of a Condition Alpha? Stand down Alpha and initiate Intruder. All eyes. Status report on Dreamer O.P.

--Hawk reports infiltrating, no contacts. Badger and Snake moving. Sword assembling. Wayne reported, with his eyes up cast. ...Situation normal. His eyes glanced about the family.

Daniel turned about, his gaze moved over the Great Hall and its activity. By this time, there were a respectable number of Fay in full armor standing near, helmets sealed and ready. The trees around the hall shimmered with the glow of lesser Fay, charging in the imaginary afternoon sun of the Middle World; reports and activity abounded at the table as they coordinated in preparation.