The Lideen commander was feeling a great deal more comfortable. Technician Fail had made the modifications and calibrations and he was deliciously cool. The door alarm sounded.

"Enter."

His Second in Command entered.

"Sir. There have been communications coming from the rebel units."

"Mmmph. I suppose they're planning some other acts of sabotage."

"I don't know ."

The commander was suddenly interested. They had broken the rebel's code the weeken previously.

"This is being beamed into space, Sir. And it's in a new code. Well it might be a language we don't know."

Visions of demotion and being exiled from the delights of Phrigidos loomed like an unwelcome spectre .

"I want every available decoding unit put to work on this. Language experts too. There's no leave until I know exactly what in those messages."

"Yes Sir. As you instruct." he raised his taal stick to the middle of his face in salute and left. The commander exhaled noisily. They didn't train officers as well as that nowadays. he thought the modern recruits extremely sloppy and sullen. They had no pride in the traditions of the Lideen Warrior, or their heritage. To be quite fair the Lideen weren't renowned warriors, their fighting more resembling a terrier shaking a rat that anything else. Persistent, but without imagination or direction. Which usually led to heavy losses, which was actually why the youth of the Lideen were getting rebellious. They had no desire to die for a cause that didn't benefit them. Neither did they have much of a heritage.

Their way of life didn't exactly produce much in the way of writers or artists. Those that there had been had often been cut down in mid work of art. Not exactly inspiring. Neither did they have much in the way of music. It was generally accepted that modulated tonal variation was well outside the capabilities of their hearing. A few paeans glorifying battles that they had actually won were about all there was. Sexual activity was usually a quick affair of grunts and snorts. No eulogies for a beloved from the Lideen mate. half the time they'd no idea of each others names. Most Lideen infants never knew who their parents were and the nursery staff didn't give a damn about their charges. Altogether an ideal scenario for total social disintegration. A disaster in the making. Well for the older generation at least. The youngsters didn't care one way or another. They'd discovered the delights of sang cheng

*******************

"I thought you said there'd be some one to meet us here Sparky."

"I was assured that there would be a guide provided to take us to the mountain camp."

Aeryn looked through her low light goggles.

"There's nothing out there."

"You're sure this is the right place?"

Rygel puffed himself up.

"Of course I'm sure. In matters of such importance I don't make mistakes of that nature!"

"It was a good idea of Urana to mask the transmissions in your language Crichton. It's totally unknown in this part of the galaxy."

"Well they got the key words that what matters."

John moved round uneasily.

"Don't like this at all. No light, no sounds, no guide."

"It's a perfectly normal Egredon night."

"Don't you have animals that hunt at night? You know ones with big eyes and long teeth."

"What a stupid idea. This fauna on this planet only comes out in the daylight. Safer that way."

"Do I detect the hint of a reason why it's safer in the day Ryg?"

"Er well it's just tradition."

"Animals don't have traditions."

"Extremely intelligent animals on Egredon Five."

"Rygel, animals don't have traditions, they learn through experience. Now are you going to tell me why nothing comes out at night on Egredon?"

"It's a tale to scare the children."

"Oh I get it! A fairy story. Ryg, what's the bad bit? You know big, bad wolf, the demon king, the witch of the woods!"

"Er, well."

Aeryn moved up.

"Rygel if you say that just once more I'm going right back to Moya."

"It's a vaaldak!"

"So?"

"Nobody's ever seen one, but things go missing. Farm animals, and only a few bones are ever found. People go missing. No one ever hears from them again. It happens especially on the nights of the twin dark."

"Come again Sparky?"

"Nights when both moons are set!"

"So a fictitious animal causes the local inhabitants to quake in their boots?"

Rygel shivered.

"I wouldn't be so derisive if I were you Crichton."

"I have never, Rygel, been scared of things that go bump in the night."

There was suddenly an ear splitting roar and scream. Aeryn suddenly found Crichton with his arms round her.

"I thought you weren't scared of things that went bump it the night?"

"I was just protecting you."

"Well it might not have filtered through to your brain yet that I'm a trained soldier and things that go bump in the night usually have a completely rational explanation."

There was a glimmer of light on the path ahead. Aeryn scanned the area with the goggles.

"One male and an animal of some kind. Carrying a light in a container."

Crichton took the goggles from her.

"It's an oil lamp or something similar. I didn't think things were quite so primitive here Ryg."

"They aren't. Not exactly cutting edge technology, but sufficient for an extremely comfortable existence."

The figure came within range of their light pads and they switched them on. A hand shot out to cover its eyes as it was suddenly dazzled by their lights.

"Thank the Goddess you're here!"

The voice came from a creature with a leathery skin, porcine type head and a large reptilian tail. It was accompanied by something which was graced by having four legs and and extremely well fanged mouth in its extremely ugly head.

"I've never seen anyone like you on Egredon Five!"

"Ah yes explanation. I'm a refugee from Lepp. The resistance has a lot of refugees fron different planets. Life under your relations, Dominar can be tiresome."

"How tiresome?"

The Lepp glanced at Crichton.

"Terminally tiresome."

"That bad eh?"

"Oh it only takes some small misdemeanour to bring you to their attention, then it's the re-education facility..."

"Brainwashing!"

"A little worse and it's the legron mines..."

"Slave labour!"

"Insults aganst the rulers or a little honest sabotage merit...."

And he descriptively drew his stubby fingers along his throat.

"Death row!"

"I didn't realise things had got so bad."

"Well there were grumbles enough in your day so I'm told, but your reign looks like a dream come true compared to that of your relatives"

"Who's actually reigning then. I never heard the details. I was otherwise engaged."

"Your brother."

"He hasn't got the brains to rule a village let alone a vast empire."

The Lepp snorted.

"He does as your cousin tells him I believe."

"Ah yes that would be the case. I spent my time sending him to far reaches of the empire on trade missions. Well don't look so surprised Crichton. Couldn't stand the sight of the little grunt. Always trying to toady favour."

"Arse licker?"

"Yes you're right there. Never thought of it in that way. Anyway it seems that he'd offered a lot of bribes to people to follow him and usurp me!"

"Well seems the wheel's turned full circle. You can take it all back again Rygel."

The Lepp snorted.

"I wish it was so."

"Do I hear a cautionary note in your voice?"

"It all comes down to organisation. All the groups are spread far apart but they can't decide on a leader. Seems no one wants to defer to a person from a different group."

"Maybe the Dominar can bring some order to the chaos."

"I hope so."

The Lepp gave Crichton a hard stare.

"I don't know what to call you. Are you the Dominar's council?"

"I'm John Crichton, and this is Aeryn Sun. The other members of our group are still on board our ships. And no, we're not Rygel's council. We're his friends."

"Well John Crichton I'd better get you to safety. Could I borrow one of your lights? They are far in advance of mine."

"You can go in th middle Sparky. Give him yours."

"I should really have one. In my position!"

Crichton sidled up to the Hynerean.

"Ryg. Your position is a wanna be ruler. Now are you gonna give the man the light or do I have to embarrass you by taking it off you?"

"Oh very well then."

He took his sled down and handed his light pad to the Lepp.

"Here you are. I think you need it more than I do."

He glared at Crichton who was standing by Aeryn, with an innocent look on his face.

"Why thank you Dominar. Just follow me."

With Aeryn and Crichton bringing up the rear they followed him along the dusty track.

"What'd you think about our guide?"

"The Lepp are herders. They're settled on a couple of Peacekeeper planets. On the whole they keep out of trouble. They can get a bit rowdy though, when there's a group of them."

"What do they herd?"

"Depends on where they are. Dimtaurs and lamacs mostly."

"Edible?"

"Edible and rideable. Though why anyone would wish to ride an animal is beyond me."

Crichton grinned. Aeryn could see him in the cold light of the pads.

"What's so funny?"

"I went through a cowboy patch. Learnt to ride and everything.."

"Strange customs you have on Earth."

"Sometime I'll fill you in. Used to love John Wayne movies. And then there was the Magnificent Seven. Ah those were the days!"

"I'd keep your mind on the path. It seems to lead upwards now and it's rougher."

Crichton tripped and almost fell arse over tip. Aeryn grabbed his arm.

"You don't listen do you?"

They progressed upwards in silence. At last the Lepp stopped and made a shrill sound. The seemingly unrelieved rock face was suddenly broken as a portion of it slid to one side. A dimly lit passage was visible. They followed the Lepp's bulky figure and started to make their way down the smooth passage. Aeryn started as the door closed behind them. She slid close to Crichton.

"I really don't like this!"

"You think it might be a trap?"

"It crossed my mind Rygel's family might want to make a terminal disposal."

"Fricasseed Sparky?"

"It's a possibility."

"Well we're nicely bottled up in this place. Any ideas?"

She shook her head.

"Only be watchful, and keep your weapon ready. I doubt even Talyn could penetrate this place!"

They walked on in silence. The pasage way got wider and they walked into a well lit cavern. There were crates and machinery cases neatly lining the outer walls. The Lepp took them to the far end where a grey haired Egredon was sitting next to an elderly Sebbacian woman.

"Sir, Dominar Rygel the Sixteenth and friends."

The man looked up and smiled.

"It's good to see you again."

"Dravol, my old friend. They said you were dead."

"Tales of my demise were greatly exaggerated. I never thought to see you again, though."

"Ryg who's the old friend?"

"He used to be my Major Domo. Organised the household with a great deal of precision and expertise."

His little body shook with laughter.

"Got me out of a scrape of two as well!"

"Zevoin, have you got the food for the Dominar?"

The Sebbacian smiled gently and indicated that Rygel should follow her.

"Free Sebbacian."

"How can you tell?"

"Just a way of carrying herslf, a calmness."

Dravol coughed to gain their attention.

"I take it you are in charge of your combined forces?"

"Well, er.. me...?"

Crichton shook his head.

"You have organised several operations?"

"How do you know about those?"

"Our intelligence gathering is wide spread."

"We haven't got any forces."

"You caused all that mayhem on your own?"

Aeryn broke in.

"We have the use of a Leviathan gunship commanded by Captain Bialar Crais."

"Interesting. I thought he'd been banished."

Aeryn looked at Crichton and raised an eyebrow.

"Look Dravol. I don't know what you want from us but having the past dragged up makes me very uneasy."

"What I want's simple John Crichton. I want you to co-ordinate the up rising. There is no one else suitable and it will stop the in fighting. Will you do it?"

Crichton looked inquiringly at Aeryn who just shrugged her shoulders.

"Aw what the hell! In for a penny in for a pound! Just as long as it's not a repeat of Custer's last stand . Shake hands with your new C-in-C!"

Part 5a

Crichton wasn't completely comfortable with the idea of co-ordinating the resistance.

"Crais would've been a better choice!"

Aeryn shook her head.

"No. he's too entrenched in Peacekeepers' doctrine. Even as a renegade he's totally Peackeeper in outlook! It's something that lives with you. You think differently. Unorthodox methods are just what's needed here."

Dravol had sent out a message to the unit leaders to meet in one day's time at the cavern.

"That gives us time to get organised too", Crichton said as they made their way back to the transport in the light of the first rays of the rising suns. Rygel was accompanying them. Every one had agreed that the dimunitive would be ruler was safer on board Moya. he would come down for the meeting.

"You're quiet Sparky?"

"Just remembered the responsibilities of being a ruler. You get very little chance to be yourself. Not much time for fun. Never know who to trust."

"You're not getting cold feet are you Ryg?"

"No..... Just come down from the clouds."

Aeryn smiled as she remembered his initial euphoria.

"Probably better that you have. You'll think a great deal more rationally."

"I suppose so."

His tone of voice denoted that he was less than convinced. As the transport pod hatched opened they were met by Chiana.

"Crais says he's managed to do it"

"Great Pip. At least we'll be sure that there are no messages getting off the planet."

"What about our communications?"

"Different system. We'll still be in contact with each other and Pilot and Crais."

Crais and Talyn had deployed small jamming beacons at regular intervals round the planet. They were adaptive and would automatically modulate to any alteration in frequency. Egredon Five was effectively in isolation!

*******************

"What do you mean you can't send for spare parts?"

"Exactly that Sir." mumbled the Lideen lieutenant through his helmet intercom. "There's only static and squeals on all our frequencies. We can't get anything out and nothing can get in."

"What do the scanners pick up?"

"Er nothing Sir."

"Nothing. NOTHING. Our communications fail and nothing's caused it. I'm a patient man but that is beyond even the bounds of my imagination!"

Actually as Lideen were not renowned for having great imaginations that wasn't difficult to achieve.

"What do you want to do Sir?"

The commander paced the room. As he had no vessels capable of space flight he was without means of physical reconnaissance. The instruments were limited to several small scanning dishes which had been adapted from the planet's internal communications net. They were totally dependant on their hosts and their allies for interplanetary travel.This was one of the times that the commander wished that they had been more technically orientated. At least it might have kept the younger Lideen away from the race tracks. he grunted.

"Just keep me informed and tighten garrison security. And try to find a freighter for hire. We've got to see what's out there!"

"I could commandeer one Sir."

"What and further antagonise the local population?  We're living on a knife's edge as it is. Credits are not in short supply. Hire one."

The officer saluted and left the beleaguered Lideen still pacing his office.

*******************

The crew plus Crais and Urana were all gathered on board Moya. Sout and Chiana had made some food and they were all eating and discussing the situation.

"Crais I know you still don't like me a great deal, But I'm gonna need your help on this one."

Crais muttered something incomprehensible into his beard. Crichton lifted his hand.

"OK OK. I'll ask Aeryn to be liason."

Urana piped up.

"Crais why don't you like Crichton?"

"It's a long story."

"Go on tell her. It isn't a secret. She'll find out sooner or later."

"Well when Crichton first appeared through a wormhole, his ship rammed the one my brother was in and killed him. I went beserk."

"What's beserk?"

"Very angry, but a type of anger where you don't think straight. Anyway I spent the next cycle trying to kill him."

"Would you have felt better if you had?"

He thought for a couple of microts.

"No, no I wouldn't have."

"It's silly to fight when you need each other."

"Out of the mouths....!"

"In retrospect it is foolish Crichton. We're much better off formulating a plan of action."

He glanced at the human.

"But don't expect me to like you!"

Urana had sneaked round to d'Argo by this time. She tugged the big Luxan's sleeve and looked up at him. he looked down at her dazzling smile. his own face replied and he patted his knee. Urana hopped up onto it. Sout had brought in a huge pot of tisane and was handing out beakers of it.

"Hey Sout man. What would you do?"

"The essence of running a successful guerilla war is to make sure that units are small and discreet."

"Run that by me again."

"You divide your people up into small units, say four or six then have say four again under a controller. he reports to someone else who reports to the chief."

"Yes I get it. The classic spy cell set up. If some one gets taken they only know the identity of a few others. Can't really do that here though. They all ready know one another."

"That does pose a problem."

"Well to keep them in their tight units might be a mistake."

"What d'you mean Aeryn."

"We already know that the main problem was finding a leader, bucause of unit pride, no unit wanted to be told what to do by another."

"Yeah, that I remember."

"Then put one member from each group into each of the others, that might help to break down their partisan nature."

D'Argo laughed.

"Or lead to some frelling good fights!"

"We can't afford for them to squabble amongst themselves d'Argo."

"No that's obvious. Actually I can't think of a foolproof answer to it!"

They sat quietly pondering the subject and drinking their tisane.

"Why not just change their commanders?"

"What Pip?"

"Just change the commanders round. Fewer people to upset."

"You know it could work. What do you think Sparky?"

"Don't ask me. I'm only the how did you put it Crichton? The wanna be ruler."

"You're sulking ."

"Why should I be sulking?"

"Feelin' left out?"

"What's new in that. No I'm starting to wonder if it's worth all the trouble."

"You don't want to be Dominar?"

"I'm not sure. But those folk down there are looking to you to free them, Crichton. With or without me."

Urana sitting quietly on d'Argo's knee had her attention taken by a small movement under a small table at the side of the chamber. A pair of yellow eyes looked straight at her and something emerged from underneath.

"Oh it's pretty."

D'Argo bent down to her.

"What's pretty?"

"Look!"

He followed the direction of her finger and saw the irridescent wings and colourful body.

"Oh frell!"

"What is it?"

"Those things are back again."

"What things?"

"Look over there Chiana."

"It's beautiful."

"It's hungry. One of those little monsters bit me."

"One of those caused the crystallising?"

"Yep."

"What are we going to do ?"

"I don't know. Pilot."

"Yes Crichton."

"What's Moya's latest on the flying fangs?"

"Just a microt. Yes there seem to be a number on level twelve."

"There's one up here too. Watching us watching it!"

"I can seal off twelve and flood it with sterilising gas."

"I'd say everything we're saying is being sent back to the group."

"The cluster appears to be moving down to level thirteen."

"Told you."

"It's gone Crichton."

"What Urana?"

"The tiny lizard thing. It's gone."

Crichton pointed to where it had been.

"That's one problem I can do without."

"What do we do about them?"

"Nothing we can do at the moment. Just hope they keep to themselves and if you want to go way down in Moya, get a suit of armour."

*******************

"Dravol, you've got a nerve. What could you be thinking of?"

"It seems to me that it's a perfect solution. By making an off worlder the commander there can be no more internal power struggles. We can focus on the job at hand. And we get the use of their expertise. They have Peacekeeper weapons and a Leviathan gunship."

"That's a new departure. I thought Leviathans couldn't carry weapons?"

The assembled group leaders nodded in agreement. Dravol looked round at them. It had been a lot easier than he'd first imagined. Well John Crichton, you have your troops, Goddess help you. Perhaps you may be able to make sonething of them.

"Er well I believe it was an experiment the Peacekeepers carried out. I think he's the only one."

"He?"

"His name's Talyn and his mother's Moya."

"They use Leviathans as prison transports don't they?"

"In some quarters I believe they do. And they also carry troops."

A rather grimy individual with a seamed face asked.

"Just how did they get a Leviathan?"

"You know Baast, I haven't a clue. I never asked them."

He paused a microt.

"Anyway how they got the ship's totally irrelevant. The fact is they have a base, they've brought the Dominar and they can train us."

There was a guffaw from and individual sporting tentacles similar to those of d'Argo, but having a long narrow purple face.

"If this new commander suceeds in doing that then I'll broach a cask of Valan Nekter."

This brought some ribald remarks from the other leaders. Dravol brought his mug down on the table to get attention.

"Gentlemen and others. We need this John Crichton and his friends. I think we are all in agreement that none of us wants to live under the rule of the Dominar's relatives."

General head nodding.

"So here's to a free Egredon Five."

Mugs were raised.

"A free Egredon Five."

Matters settled they got up and left one by one. They would come back the next day to meet their new leader and the deposed Dominar. Dravol remained seated. He was joined by the Sebbacian woman. He touched her greying hair fondly.

"It's our last chance Zevoin."

She sighed.

"There's been so much conflict. I want our childrens' children to have peace and freedom."

"Peace yes, but freedom always has been subjective. In any society there is never full freedom for an individual."

She placed her hand over his and looked up at him.

"Well more freedom then."

She paused.

"I have heard rumours that the Scarrans are on the move again."

"I've heard those too."

He shuddered, Zevoin though he looked his age.

"They're only rumours my dear!"

"Oh Zevoin, would that it were so!"

"You mean there's substance to them?"

"I was talking to a Xiphanian merchant captain. he saw the dreadnoughts massed in the Ralian corridor over six monat ago."

"But if they're still there, surely they can be no threat?"

"I've also heard they've got a directional wormhole. They can go where they please at their leisure."

Zevoin looked at him in shock. Suddenly the day had acquired an extremely bitter taste!

The group leaders were all assembled in the cavern the next day when Rygel, Aeryn, d'Argo, Crais, Sout and Crichton entered. Davrol stood up.

"Dominar Rygel the sixteenth, John Crichton, your new commander and his advisors."

There were general mutters of greeting, but the faces were sullen. Crichton whispered to Rygel.

"How about a few words of encouragement to your waiting public?"

"They look about how I feel, depressed and disillusioned."

"Come on Ryg where's the diplomat you've shown you can be."

"Oh very well then."

He cleared his throat. There was an expectant hush from those gathered.

"My friends, citizens of Egredon Five and those who seek its sanctuary. This is a momentous occasion."

He paused for effect. Twenty faces were looking at his.

"Seldom do we get the chance to right a wrong and restore freedom and harmony. We are indeed fortunate that it has fallen to us to do just that. I know that John Crichton will prove to be an effective leader and that he and those who advise him will be able to give you the benefit of their valuable experience. I ask you to give him your undivided loyalty. For Egredon Five and for the freedom of her citizens!"

"Egredon Five!", echoed round the cavern. Rygel went back to Crichton.

"There will that do?"

"You surpassed yourself Sparky."

He stepped out to face the leaders.

"Well lets get down to the nitty-gritty."

Blank faces looked at him. Aeryn countered.

"You'll get used to the way he speaks. It's general on his planet. The microbes can translate most of what he says. If you have a problem get him to explain."

The murmur from round the table betokened that they understood what he meant.

"What do you want us to do?"

"Number one, you all put your names in a hat, then the names of all your groups go in another. Rygel will pick out pairs. These will show the leader and group combinations."

"But everyone is used to his own people."

"That my friend leads to slackness and favouritism and all the problems you've been having of late."

They looked at each other. One young leader with a blotched brown and black face finally countered, "I suppose we have been acting like children."

"Well as long as you realise the fact we're getting somewhere." The procedure was started and Rygel solemnly drew the slips of paper. Most of the folk there seemed contents with their lot. There was a groan from one old Bloog.

"I don't believe it. I got the Die-hards."

Crichton grinned.

"With a name like that they should make good soldiers."

There was a huge guffaw from the others. Davrol explained. "It's a rather bad joke. They've never been in to action. They're teachers, artists and scholars. have no idea which end of a rifle fires the bolt."

"Are they clever?"

"Well yes. I will say they do learn quickly. There are a couple of scientists and an astronomer in the group. You see they wanted to help but they're just not fighters, so they gather information and stuff like that."

"A totally necessary function. I see no reason to ridicule them. Not everyone is suited to fighting."

"Let me introduce Captain Bialar Crais, late of the Peacekeepers and Captain Aeryn Sun also late of the Peacekeepers. They will undertake the main weapons training."

Crichton then indicated Sout and d'Argo.

"Sout is a Suran Da master and he will teach you those skills that he knows that you may find useful. Ka d'Argo will try to instil some rudiments of successful planning skills and be in charge of over all fitness. We'll give you all a list of basic requirements. Davrol is it possible to get groups up here unnoticed?"

Davrol chuckled.

"The Lideen never venture this far North and our own folk won't come because of the vaaldak."

"It exists then?"

"Only in the minds of children and the superstitious. We propagate the myth. It's always been a centre for smuggling and we don't want intruders."

"There's no such thing then?"

"Well something gave the story credibility. What exactly that is no one has lived to tell."

"I hope it doesn't show its snout here!"

"Oh I should think that's highly unlikely."

Crais interrupted.

"Crichton, we'd better get some idea of exactly what weapons they have."

"Agreed. Davrol can you get them to make lists of anything that would be useful?"

"No problem. Each group can do that. You'll have them tomorrow."

"And anyone with special skills. Explosives, lock picking, stealth. Anything like that."

Davrol grinned.

"We've got half the Thieves' Guild in Vaol's new group."

"There's actually such a thing as a Thieves' Guild?"

"It's an honoured profession with its own code of rules."

"Such as?" "Never steal from the poor or out of work."

"I hope we're in the no go zone too."

"Oh absolutely. You're a comrade. Never steal from a comrade."

"Looks good to me. We'll start training the first two groups tomorrow. They can sort out who'll go first amongst themselves?"

"It'll give them something concrete to do. Now they've seen you and the Dominar, they'll feel a little more confident."

"Are you really sure they want to go for the big time? You know start raiding?"

"They have all sworn to make Egredon free. To the death if need be."

Aeryn turned away, Crichton shook his head.

"Never could understand the 'to the death bit'. I always thought the ultimate objective was to live to enjoy the fruits of victory."

"No one wants to die, my friend, but sometimes it's thrust upon us. I've no desire to be a martyr, but I have to face the fact that there will be casualties and I may be one of them!"

"Then we'll have to give them the best training possible in the short time we're here."

Davrol looked shocked.

"I understood that you'd be here for some considerable time."

"Where did you get that idea?"

He suddenly looked a very old man.

"I..I think I may have been living on hope too long. Very well then we'll do the best we can with what you have to offer. Anything's better than nothing, which is effectively what we have now."

"Crais has family commitments and we are relying on Talyn for protection. When he goes so must we."

"I understand."

Crichton moved away and was joined by Aeryn.

"I can feel that old man's disappointment."

"I know, but better he knows the truth than cling to false hopes."

"You don't want to leave do you John? Not until they can fend for themselves."

"Am I so readable?"

"Probably only by me. You can't win everyone's battles you know."

She touched him on the arm.

"You know I don't think Crais will go and look for his long lost cousin."

"No?"

They were back out in the open, Crichton leant back against the rock face.

"No. I don't think there ever was a cousin."

"So what's he up to?"

"Oh I think he was trying to entice me on to Talyn, make me react by saying he was leaving."

"And would you have gone?"

"I might have. That's before a certain John Crichton got the use of his own head back."

She spun away.

"But not now. I think he's going to have his attention taken by a certain young lady called Urana."

Crichton chuckled.

"She's already got Talyn's devotion and I don't think Crais is far behind."

"You know d'Argo didn't think we noticed the other day."

"When she climbed on his knee?"

"Yes. The softer side of a Luxan warrior."

"Do you think she'll be all right?"

"Urana? She's a cute pixie. I can see her winning every male heart all round the galaxy."

"Even Scorpius's?"

"Shouldn't think so. I've heard he's even more taciturn and introverted since the Sareel episode."

"I share your dislike and distrust for him, but I feel a little pity too." "how come?"

"To discover something within you that you thought was absent and then to have it taken away from you without warning."

"have you discovered that 'something' in you Aeryn Sun?"

his face was very close to hers.

"Love you mean? I'm not sure that I have. I enjoy being with you, sometimes. Sex is good too, but I'm not sure I want you around all of the time, not as a fixture. And that's what you're asking of me isn't it?"

"It's the custom on Earth when two people care very much for each other that they form a pair."

he moved to kiss her, but she broke away.

"I can't give you that commitment John. I just can't."

he looked crestfallen, she felt sorry for what she'd just said then immediately thought, "It's that lost look of his. Goddess knows it's appealing. I must do what I'm comfortable with. But half the time I want one thing half the time something entirely different. Why can't life be simple."

She'd reached the transport by this time and was stowing her rifle. Sout, d'Argo and Rygel were making arrangements with the various leaders for the next day. Crichton followed her in.

"Aeryn, I don't mean to pressure you, but you mean so much to me. Surely you can see that?"

"I can see John that your hormonal level is high and that you need release. But I also remember the Princess and Galina. Do I have to go on?"

"hell no. You've made your point. You don't think I'd stay faithful."

"Exactly. I might make a commitment and find your interest had wandered, again. Let's keep it strictly on a need basis. When I need you, I'll let you know, when you need me, just ask."

"You make it sound like business arrangement."

"Isn't that what you're asking me for. A loyalty package. I don't trust you enough John."

"That's what it boils down to, trust?"

She nodded.

"Oh and how could I have forgotten Sareel. And look exactly what happened after that little caper."

"That's below the belt."

"As far as I can tell that's exactly where you carry your brains!"

Further mutual home truths were prevented by the appearance of the other three. Rygel was in animated conversation with Sout and d'Argo.

"You know I'm feeling a lot better about the whole affair."

"You are Rygel?"

"Oh indeed Sout. We'll try to give them back the planet and then we can leave with a clear conscience."

"You don't intend staying then?"

"Might have in the beginning. But now I think that they can rule themselves quite well given half a chance. Anyway I never did like that particular planet very much. The cuisine's awful."

Crichton laughed.

"Well I might have known your stomach would win."

"I mean, well frell it Crichton All they seem to rave about is some crustacean called kret. Tastes like....."

"I get your drift Sparky."

"And it makes me have gas."

"More than usual?"

The little hynearean glared at the human.

"Much more."

"Oh boy. Remind me never to give you kret then."

*******

The transport was nearing Moya and on board Talyn an excited Urana was watching it on the external view screen.

"They're back Crais."

"What? Oh the transport's back. I'll hear what state things are in down there."

The little girl pouted.

"You're not taking me?"

"You'd be bored."

her face lit up.

"I wouldn't Crais. I wouldn't!"

"Anyway haven't you got a lesson to work through and then it will be time for bed."

She hopped round him.

"I can work through that in the morning while you're down on the planet doing training or whatever you're going to do. Chiana said she'd show me how to keep a record. And I'm not a bit sleepy. Oh please let me Crais."

Two earnest violet eyes looked into his black ones.

"Please Crais!"

He sighed and Talyn beeped at him.

"A fine help you are Talyn. Very well then. But don't be a nuisance."

"Oh I won't I promise. I'll be quiet as a conduit rat."

Part 6a

The gathering was discussing happenings on the planet surface.

"Well I think it's going to be hard work John."

"You do d'Argo? Gotta admit I had the same feeling."

Aeryn scratched the back of her neck and stretched.

"A bunch of schoolteachers and novices."

Crais smiled.

"What's funny?"

"Aeryn Sun, do you remember the Zeraphim Regiment?"

"Vividly."

Crichton looked at them both. "Is this a private story or can anyone join in?"

"Will you tell him Crais?"

"Seeing as I had to suffer them, yes."

He turned to Crichton.

"As you know the majority of Peacekeepers are born in to the group. Occasionally, mainly after a major battle they find themselves short of troopers. So they go round Sebbacian planets and 'recruit' new members."

"That was how they got you wasn't it?"

"Yes and Tauvo. Now I was asked to train these new, raw recruits in the basics of military discipline and ship craft. Never, never have I had such a difficult and unrewarding task. They were insubordinate, questioned orders and were thoroughly useless in general military matters. Couldn't use a pulse rifle, totally unfit and flabby. To cut a long story short, I found out purely by chance that they made very good saboteurs. Crafty and sly. So I cut the basic training and got an old war dog commander to help me with them. We turned out an excellent hit and run group."

"You think that's what we should do?"

"If we take out those who've got some military potential and keep them as an overt group to make diversions, then we divide the others into groups with special skills. Then we've got a chance of making an impact. Talyn wants to take out the Lideen's main generator, but I think that can wait."

"You got a better idea?"

*****************

In spite of what she'd told Crais, Urana was tired. The adults were engrossed in their discussion of the Egredon resistance and she was also bored. She noticed the ogroop walk out of the chamber and followed. It turned into Sout's quarters. At first she didn't notice the Morgul, who was sitting immobile on his divan, legs crossed in front of him, fingertips on his knees. At her entrance his eyes flew open.

"Oh Sout. I 'm sorry. I didn't see you at first. I was following the ogroop.

The animal in question jumped up on the divan and rubbed its head against Sout's chest. he looked down and fondly scratched its head.

"Chiana called it Rool. Do you want to stroke him?"

The little girl looked at Sout rather tentatively.

"May I?"

"No reason why not. Here sit down beside me."

She climbed up beside him and Rool began sniff her with his delicate nose. Urana giggled.

"He tickles!"

The ogroop's green tongue flicked out and licked the end of her nose.

"Ooo.! That's nice."

She scratched behind his ear mounds and was rewarded by a contented warbling from the little animal. Finally he curled up between them.

"Well I'd say you'd got a new friend."

"Mmm. Crais says I should want to have other younglings as friends."

"I'd say Crais was right."

She looked a trifle put out.

"But those I've seen want to do silly things like play games."

She looked at him seriously.

"And the older ones are chasing mates."

"It's an age old pastime."

"It's un....unrewarding. You gain no knowledge."

"Oh on the contrary. It's the ultimate game. You know even adults like to play." She frowned.

"Adults play games?"

The Morgul nodded.

"Down on Egredon. what are the Lideen and the resistance doing?"

She chuckled.

"I think the resistance are enticing the Lideen younglings to the races. Is that a game?"

"They are both wanting to rule the planet. It's a game called powerplay and it can have serious consequences."

"Talyn says he wants to kill the Lideen."

"You've been talking to the Leviathan?"

She nodded.

"Crais gave me a control circlet. Taly's excited by all this."

"I don't doubt that he is, but remember Urana, he's big but he's scarcely more that a child himself. he's not capable of making mature decisions."

"I told him that it was a waste of energy to just blast at anything. he should choose his target carefully."

"What did he say?"

"That Sareel had told him the same thing. Sout who was she? Whenever I ask Crais he changes the subject."

"Has he told you about Scorpius?"

"The Peacekeeper scientist? Yes. He doesn't seem to like him. He called him the menace in black."

"Well even menaces can fall for someone."

"Oh you mean Scorpius fell in love?"

 Sout smiled.

 "Well I wouldn't go that far. No shall we say he found someone he didn't want to be parted from."

"Sareel?"

"Sareel. Well like all good stories they had their problems."

"But it all came right in the end!"

"Not in this case Urana."

"What happened? Did she die?"

"No, not exactly."

The little girl looked up at him with her violet eyes.

"Why isn't she around?"

"We had a problem with the Scarrans a little while back. One of them removed her brain from her body and at the moment there's no way of putting them back together again."

"Urrgh. how horrid!"

She thought for a microt.

"And is Scorpius sad?"

"You know no one knows. he'd never let on if he was. he's a very private person."

"Perhaps I could help him. I feel so sorry for him."

Sout burst out laughing.

"I think you must be the only person in the galaxy who feels that way about him. Most would like to see him dead."

"He's bad then?"

"Depends how you look at things. If you're a Peacekeeper then he's a valuable asset. To everyone else he's a scourge and a pest."

"Oh."

She was quiet for a while, gently stroking Rool's dark chestnut fur.

"Sout?"

"Yes."

"Can you teach me the Suran Da combat and discipline?"

The Morgul was taken aback by her request.

"I can but it takes a great deal of commitment and self denial. The discipline's strict. A Suran Da novice has to exercise patience and self control."

"I'm very patient Sout. I held myself in check when my master was angry and I wanted to hit him. Please!"

The two violet eyes loked at him pleadingly.

"You are going to devastate the male population when you're older. how can I refuse a look like that? I'll make arrangement with Crais to give you lessons."

"Oh Sout I love you!"

Two small arms wrapped themselves round his neck and her felt her warm little body hugging his. he sighed. She was going to be a challenge but what a fighter she'd make if trained properly.

"Then we start evaluating them tomorrow with a view to creating specialist groups?"

"That would sum it up Crichton. Now where's Urana? We should be getting back to Talyn."

"Well she's not here. Anyone see where she went?"

General shaking of heads. Sout came into the room.

"hey Sout have you seen Urana?"

The Morgul smiled.

"Yes John, I just left her. I'll show you where she is Crais."

They went up to Sout's quarters. There lying on his divan, Rool curled up alongside her, was Urana fast asleep, an angelic look on her small pointed face.

"I knew she was tired but she would come."

"You tried to say no of course."

Crais looked at Sout.

"How did you know?"

"I didn't. It was an educated guess."

"It's those eyes."

"Oh I know. She's cajoled me in to giving her Suran Da combat lessons. I need to fix a time with you."

"Well I'd suggest first thing in the mornings, before we depart for the surface. It won't matter if you're late arriving."

"She's to stay with Chiana and Rygel I believe."

"Yes she's likely to get hurt if she goes planetside. She's into everything. An extremely inquiring mind."

"Do you know where she comes from?"

"Not this side of the galaxy, that's for sure! That pointed face and those eyes would be in great demand."

"I never marked you as a collector of waifs and strays."

Crais sighed.

"Neither did I. But I just couldn't leave her there! Anyway Talyn likes her and she seems to be able to get some sense into him. he doesn't always listen to me."

"That's going to pose a problem isn't it?"

"I just hope he gains reason with maturity. I have to treat him as a wayward child at the moment. If Aeryn Sun would join me I know he responds well to her, but she seems entangled with Crichton. I'll never know why. They seem to get on each other's nerves most of the time."

"Ah but they make up for it the rest of the time. To change the subject. Do you want me to wake Urana up?"

Crais shook his head.

"No leave her. Where are you going to sleep?"

"Well it won't be the first time I've been on the floor with a bedroll!"

"Oh I'd forgotten you'd been in the Peacekeepers too."

"Yes with that she snalkit Urla. Just because she came from one of the main families she thought she owned everyone."

"I've met the type. Coming from a rural family, even a rich one, automatically laid Tauvo and I open to ridicule."

"Looking like I do had about the same effect. Lots of snide remarks about my ears and veining."

"Well I'll see you planetside in the morning."

Crais just touched Urana's cheek. She smiled in her sleep and the ogroop opened an eye and yawned before curling up even tighter by the little girl. *******

Pilot was worried. Down in Moya's lower levels, DRD's were reporting more and more burnt pieces of superstructure. They were not large enough areas to cause Moya more than a mild itch, but they were on the increase. he checked and doublechecked but could find no obvious faults in Moya's circuitry.

"It must be those flying things that attacked Crichton. There's no other answer. I'll gas down levels twelve to seventeen. That should effect a cure."

 ******

The units who had been detailed to listen for relevant information for the hive picked up Pilot's thoughts via Moya's sensory fibres. All the growing numbers of units rapidly evacuated the area to be gassed and that brought them to level eleven, much closer to the giants. The hive mother collected all her children around her. A new strategy was called for. Perhaps it was time for them to go on the offensive. They would move in on the giants the very next day. Total carbonisation of them would provide an acceptable food source for a considerable while. Then they could continue systematically attacking the huge ship.

Part 7a

The next day proved to be a hot one on the planet. Eddies of dust were swirling round and round in the approach to the caves and the suns were a lurid red colour. Crais, Aeryn and d'Argo had gone ahead.

"Dust storm!"

"Uh what did you say Sout?"

Crichton was miles away in a world of his own.

"The weather's brewing up for a dust storm. Typical in desert regions."

"Oh I suppose it is."

Sout moved over to walk close to Crichton.

"Something bothering you?"

"Yeah. The whole thing with Scorpie. he's done some things which seem to be not in his own interest and that rings warning bells."

"Well we had to co-operate on Pharas. It was a matter of life or death for all of us."

"Suppose so."

"You know the Scarrans want him back. They want his knowledge and that's made him feel vulnerable. That and what Zip Tok did to Sareel. If he hated them before then think how he feels now!"

"Yeah!"

"Is that all you can say today? A virtual session of minimal response."

"Do you think he's got a chance of restoring Sareel?"

"Depends how long he can wait. It might be possible in a cycle or may be it'll take a hundred cycles and he'll be an old man by then."

"Funny I can't think of him as an old guy. he looks as old as Methuselah now. What'll he look like then?"

"You see probably."

"Sout man, I'll be dead cycles before that. humans don't live that long."

"That's what's bothering you?"

"No not really. Aw hell don't really know what it is. Just feel, well sorta cut off."

"You're homesick."

"Nah"

"Well what the frell is it then? You need your mind to be on what you're going to do today and you're so abstracted it's unreal."

"I've been thinking. That wormhole that brought me here, I always thought it was a random event, but the only ones I've seen since I've been in this part of the galaxy have been manufactured."

"Well I suppose a random event is possible but getting all the parameters correct would mean that they were a very rare occurrence."

He stopped and faced Crichton.

"Just what are you implying John?"

"My being brought here wasn't an accident!"

Sout stared at him.

"What brought you to that conclusion?"

"Bits and pieces. Things that have happened. Can't exactly put a finger on it. Everything seems to be leading to something else and....."

He looked at the Morgul who was waiting patiently for him to finish.

"And?"

Crichton threw his hands up in a gesture of despair.

"The Ancients, Sareel, I guess even Scorpius and Crais. It seems to be a web and I seem to be part of it. Scorpius is convinced he needs me and I don't trust him one inch. Sareel had what we both wanted and now that's outa reach again. The Scarrans are going on the warpath or so we're led to believe and I just have a gut feeling I was meant to be a part of it."

"Philosophy part of your studies?"

"No hated it."

"Well you're doing a lot of it now. We believe in the Suran Da that there's a cosmological wheel which inexorably turns. Not everything has a visible rational reason. Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith."

There was silence for a few microts, then Sout said, "Actually John, what would be so bad about a working arrangement with Scorpius. After all I far as I can see it would be mutually beneficial."

"He didn't put you in the Comfy Chair."

"No he didn't, but to the Peacekeepers you were an intruder. From what you've told me the mutual fascination started then."

"What the hell are you implying?"

"Well he's managed to keep you alive on several occasions and you've not made as much effort as you could to kill him, which is what you say you want to do. To me that implies a degree of curiosity about each other."

"Don't agree with your assessment. Just turned out that way. Just been times when we were useful to him."

"Oh I'm sure he was overjoyed having to ask us for favours!"

"What are you trying to say Sout. Come on, I don't think I'll like it, but let's get it into the open!"

"Do you really think he'd have asked for our help and granted an amnesty if there'd been any other solution? I think you'll find his sentiments on that matter much the same as your own. You're both being driven, though Goddess knows by what."

"I wonder if he dreams?"

"Why do you?"

"Sometimes. Sometimes I dream of Earth, but my memories are fading and it doesn't seem real any more. And sometimes when I look at the planet it's not quite right. That's when I dream about the wormhole."

"That's not all of it. There's more isn't there?"

Crichton's voice was choked as he answered.

"Scorpius and Sareel are always there. Even before I first saw Sareel, she was in those dreams. But now she's gone."

"Except in your dreams and I guess in Scorpius's too. There's a mystery in this John. Don't try to fight it, go with the flow."

Crichton sighed.

"Don't have much choice do I?"

"Not really."

By this time they'd reached the entrance to the caverns and the cool of the passage was a welcome relief from the sultry heat outside.

********************

 The assembled groups in the cavern were keeping well away from an extremely motley collection of personages who were standing up by one of the walls looking most uncomfortable. The 'Die hards' had arrived. An extremely tall and thin Taal was in charge. A small portly female Egradonian, nudged him with her elbow.

"Porten, why did we come here? We're a joke to the others."

"We want to do our bit for the cause, Teacher Koy. We all have special skills other than fighting."

An extremely obese Sheyang sat down heavily on a crate.

"Well I don't know what I can do. Can't even raise fire any more."

Further discussion about this was prevented by the arrival of the group from Moya. General introductions were made. Crais, Aeryn and d'Argo took the main body of would be fighters out side and Sout and Crichton took the rather diffident group that was left to the big table in the centre of the cavern.

"You guys can contribute in the skill department . When I point to you tell me what your name is, what you do and what special skills you have. Sout can you keep a record?"

The Morgul nodded. Crichton pointed to the Taal.

"I'm Porten and I control the waste disposal on the planet. Special skills, well good engineer."

"Koy. I teach at the higher Academy. Special skills, I can get into any computer system on the planet."

"We've got ourselves a hacker Sout."

"That could be useful."

The Sheyang was next. "Asp' nouth, owner of the race track in Egredon City. Special skills, can't think of any."

"Oh come on Aspi. You're the best body I've ever seen at calculating odds. I should know I've lost enough to the track."

This brought gales of laughter from the group and the tension which had been there lifted. By the time they had finished going round, the list had two scientists, an explosives expert (demolitions), a locksmith, two prostitutes and a flight co-ordinator for a trading company. Crichton suggested a break and took Sout to one side.

"What the hell are we going to do with them?"

"Well we've got to neutralise the Lideen command for a start."

"I thought Chiana and Piqua had that under control."

"They can get in, but we've got to get control of the main communications unit. Piqua says that's one of the most heavily guarded parts of the garrison."

"I can see that we need to control that. Those beacons Crais and Talyn put out won't last for ever."

"It also has the main holoprojection transmitter and studio. They control the whole of the entertainment and information from there. We need to get hold of that facility to tell the population what's going on!"

"I guess it's got security codes. We'd need to override them."

"Who better than Teacher Koy!"

"Yeah I guess she could. So the girls would have to find some way of getting a small group inside?"

"I suggest we give it some thought when we get back to Moya. I'll try to get some rudiments of Suran Da combat into their heads this afternoon."

"That should be worth watching!"

"Well the best I can expect I think is that they are at least aware that they might walk into trouble."

***********

Aeryn and Crais were having to admit, a bit grudgingly, that these groups were proving to be more receptive than those they'd had the previous day. They were showing reasonable discipline and and got the hang of the pulse rifles quite quickly. D'Argo had got half a dozen of them practising stealth approaches and a bit of bush craft.

"You know Crais, I think we may stand half a chance."

"I'd be happier if the rifles didn't have to be charged with chakkan oil. They can run out at the most inconvenient time and these people just can't refuel quickly enough."

"Like ours you mean, the ones Sareel modified?"

"Yes I wish we had more of them."

"Maybe some of John's latest group can copy what she did."

"Now that's a thought. There're a couple of scientists and an engineer in the bunch. Look I'll carry on here if you'd like to take one and see what they can do."

Aeryn glared at him. he was getting back into his old Peacekeeper command ways.

"I may just do that. Then I can see what Crichton and Sout are doing. I'm sure you're quite capable of managing on your own."

Crais noticed the acid edge to her voice, but he never associated his behaviour with her tartness.

"Yes That will be no problem. Will you be long?"

"Why should that matter? You already said you could manage."

Crais grimaced as she stalked away. he'd fallen nicely into his own trap. Of course what he really wanted was for her to stay by him during the training. Aeryn Sun was a different kettle of fish now, to the other Peacekeepers he'd known. Life on board Moya had made her more self confident and assured, she questioned things and made her own decisions. Not the officer blindly following orders that he'd first known.

*******************************

She found the cool of the cavern a welcome change from the dust and heat outside. Looking round she spotted Crichton and Sout talking to a spotted Talak.

"Crichton!"

"Oh hi Aeryn. Rambot was just explaining how the atmospheric layers could be made to camouflage the planet."

"Yes well I need some more practical help. have you got any one capable of converting the pulse rifles the way Sareel did ours?"

Rambot took the modified one from her hands.

"Oh what an elegant idea. Very clever adaption. Yes we've got plenty of power sources like this one. We use them in our domestic appliances. A little modification and they'll do quite well."

"You're sure?"

"Dear lady. I love a challenge as does my colleague. You'll have them all converted within the weeken. May I keep this one for reference?"

"What's with the rifles?"

"Crais pointed out that if the oil reservoir runs dry at a crucial point, our people won't be able to change it fast enough."

"Hell yes! I always found that a problem."

"Yes well you haven't had days of drill doing nothing but change the frelling things and an instructor calling you all manner of dren!"

"Yeah I had someone like that. Could never strip down a rifle fast enough."

He looked at his feet.

"Funny!"

Aeryn looked at him. She could see that he was in one of his reflective and somewhat morose moods.

"What's funny?"

"Everywhere you look on Moya, there's something that Sareel modified."

"She had a lot of talent."

"Scorpie thought so."

There was silence for a while.

"Crichton. Just what has Scorpius got to do with things at the moment?"

"Nothing I suppose. But everything keeps coming back to him and his wormholes."

"Now look here. We've got a job to do and we've got to rely on each other. There's no room at this time for any thought of what might or might not be with him. You've got to focus or one of us could get killed. Do I make myself quite clear?"

Crichton made a half bow.

"The Iron Lady's spoken. Who am I to disagree?"

"Crichton, this is no time for flippancy."

"Hey Aeryn you don't have to shout. You'll have them all wondering what's going on."

"Shouting seems to be the only way I can get through to you when you're in this kind of mood."

She walked away but noticed that he still had the slightly bemused look on his face.

"I just hope he gets himself together in the next day or two. Goddess help us all but he's the best we've got at causing utter chaos!"

Do you like sokrans?"

"Don't know. What are they?"

"Well a sort of cake. Only you have to be careful they burn easily."

Chiana, Piqua and Urana were experimenting in the kitchen. Urana had proved to be quite adept at cooking.

"He made me do the cooking", she'd said of her former owner. "I burnt a lot to start with and he shouted at me, but I've got quite good at it."

Piqua hadn't a clue.

"I used to pick up a meal where I could and off whoever was willing."

"Willing to do what?"

"Er you don't really want to know that Urana."

The little girl jumped up and down.

"I do Chiana. I do."

Piqua looked at the Nebari who just shook her head.

"You never say no to this one. It makes her all the more curious."

"Frell. Well men would give me a meal for.. er...favours granted."

Urana looked disappointed.

"Oh just a street lady. I thought you'd done something grand!"

"I'll tell you Chiana there's nothing like younglings for cutting you down to size."

"Tell me!"

They had neglected watching the sokrans during this conversation and it was the smoke coming from the oven that brought them down to the ground with a bump.

"I told you they burnt easily!"

Chiana took them out of the oven and plonked them down on the top of the range.

"Some of the frelling things have stuck."

She tried to pick one of the unburned ones up.

"Yeoooow! "

She licked her burnt fingers. Urana took a spatula and carefully released all the ones that were still edible and put them on a platter.

"Rygel's in the lounge. I know he likes them."

"Tell me something he doesn't like Urana."

"Can't think of anything so far."

Chiana took the baking tray in a cloth and put it on the floor.

"There Rool can clear those up!"

When they got to the lounge, the hynearean's top lip wrinkled at the smell.

"Sokrans! Delicious!"

Sitting down they tucked into them with relish.

"Have you ladies worked out how to gain entry to the garrison?"

Piqua replied with her mouth full, spilling crumbs on the floor. The ogroop scurried and picked them up and looked at her inquiringly.

"It's easy. Every week the Lideen allow their non Lideen staff some recreation. They aren't allowed into the city you see so entertainment is brought in. I know the fellow who organises it. He owes me a favour . In fact he owes me a couple."

The sound of heavy munching prevailed for the next microt or two. Rygel belched and Piqua giggled.

"Rygel do you always do that?"

"Not always Urana. It's something which is prevalent in my species."

"And don't we know it," muttered Chiana.

"Sorry what did you say Chiana?"

"Oh nothing Ryg. Nothing at all."

"Mmmrph."

**********

There was a procession of tiny feet as the delicious aroma of burnt sokran assailed their sensitive olfactory pores. The hive mother was with them this time as she wasn't gravid. She was still about three times larger than any of the hive members. They turned the corner and a scout carefully peered round the corner of the entrance to the kitchen.

"All clear", was the unuttered communication. The group, which now numbered about a hundred, clicked their way in and made for the baking tray. Tiny jaws scraped and chewed their way to the burnt cakes. Several flew up onto the bench in the middle where another tray was placed. This one was right at the edge and there wasn't much burnt material on it. The leading member sprayed the normal material with a purple fluid and it rapidly crumbled to carbon. Others flew up and the combined weight flipped up one edge of the tray and it teetered on the edge before falling to the ground with a loud clatter.

*********

"Did you hear that?"

"Yes it came from the kitchen."

"I suppose something's fallen over."

"Do things often just fall over on Moya?"

Piqua and Chiana looked at each other as a dawning recognition entered their minds.

"No they don't. We've got intruders. Frell! Where's that pulse pistol?"

She finally found it under the table.

"I'll lead, you follow Piqua."

"Sure, lead on."

Chiana made her way carefully down the passage to the kitchen, followed by Piqua. Rygel and Urana were a pace or two back.

"Say you two, I don't like this."

"Well you can go back Rygel. You don't have to come."

She peered round the door opening and saw the mass of rainbow tinted, shimmering bodies covering the tray. Turning she put her fingers to her lips and slid back down the passage.

"It's those flying things Ryg."

She whispered this information to him.

"The ones that bit Crichton?"

She nodded.

"I vote we retreat."

"Can't do that."

"Why the hezmana not?"

"We mightn't get another chance to deal with them. And they seem to be multiplying."

"I don't fancy crystallising. You do what you want."

He slipped a little back from the other three. The ogroop was ambling down the passage.

"Well here we go. I give them a quick blast and retreat round the corner."

"You're going to make them very mad Chiana."

"I know Urana, but perhaps I can pick them off as they come round the doorway."

She peered round the door, took aim and fired. There was a bright flash and several dozen of the creatures exploded as the pulse hit them. The rest stopped eating and turned to look for the source of the trouble. A couple spotted Chiana as she slid back. All the pairs of yellow eyes swivelled to focus on her. She was almost mesmerised by them. There was a high pitched whine starting up and she moved swiftly back.

"Frell I've done it now, run like the wind back to Sout's quarters."

"I said you shouldn't do it . I warned you."

"Oh shut up Rygel. Just run."

"I hope my sled's top speed will be sufficient!"

There was an ear-splitting scream and the first of the horde flew out of the kitchen.

"They're catching up."

"Sout's place has a door that shuts tight."

Chiana fired at the leading bunch. A few dropped to the ground.

"It's no good. We've had it."

No sooner had she said it than a large dark chestnut blanket with teeth in the centre, erupted past them. The flying mass took one look and turned tail back into the kitchen. There was the sound of things hitting the floor in great numbers.

"What the sholt was that?"

Rygel was sitting on his sled with his mouth open.

"Rygel I just asked what was that?"

He pointed a small stubby finger in the direction the flying blanket had gone.

"That...that...that."

"Oh come on Ryg. Spit it out."

"It was the ogroop. It just lifted its snout, seemed to get a scent and then its eyes lit up and it just changed shape as I watched."

"I don't think it likes those flying fangs as Crichton calls them."

"That makes five of us then."

After about ten microts there was silence from the far end of the passage. Everything quietened down in the kitchen area. A chestnut snout peeped round the door and the ogroop sidled out looking distinctly pleased with itself, its belly almost touching the floor.

"Rool you all right?"

The animal sniffed her legs and gave a loud belch. Bits of iridescent wing were stuck in the corners of its mouth.

"You've got company Rygel, that was a fine one."

"Mmm. Shall we investigate?"

They carefully peeped round the door. Chaos was what they saw. Cooking pots and broken pottery littered the floor, intermingled with various bits of creature. There was nothing alive to be seen anywhere. An acrid smell permeated the air. Urana bent down to look at something on the ground.

"Chiana look! Where the purple stuff is the floor's gone black."

The Nebari inspected the spot.

"Looks like something corrosive. We'd better tell Pilot, then he can warn the DRDs."

"Do you think they're all gone?"

"Don't know for sure Piqua. Only time will tell. I really hope so."

"I never realise that life on board a ship could be so interesting."

Chiana laughed.

"Most of the time it's totally boring. But when we get trouble we get it big time."

"Do you know where they came from?"

"Your guess is as good as mine Dominar."

"Crichton will be relieved."

"Will he? he's still got that damage round the bite."

"I thought Sout had cured that."

"No he said something about he could keep it in check. Nothing about a cure."

 **************

Urana had found the whole episode extremely fascinating, She followed the ogroop back to Sout's quarters. It sat in the middle of the floor, licking its lips and then it started grooming itself.

"Rool you clever old thing. You're a plector. Those flying things were sidols. You ate them all up."

The ogroop swallowed and drew one of its eyes back into the socket. She could have sworn it grinned and she knew it understood. Plectors were extremely intelligent but preferred to live easy unobtrusive lives until....! Well until they encountered sidols or their relatives. Threads of her old existence were materialising. Folk tales and myths! Echoes of her home in another galaxy with its varied life forms.

"I wonder just how sidols were brought here and why plectors are here. Oh Rool I think you're wonderful. I always wanted to see one and here you are."

She climbed up onto Sout's sleeping couch and started playing with his meditation ball. Rool climbed up beside her and started his warbling song, the one everybody on board found so comforting and reassuring. Urana could hardly remember her home planet, so long ago had she been taken from it, but she could remember the species that had removed her and destroyed her culture and her society. A planet where nothing was quite what it seemed. Where one thing could easily turn into something else and where there was a liquid that could make you live if not for ever at least for an exceedingly long time. Ah well all that was gone. It was highly unlikely that she would ever see any of it again. Make the best of a bad thing and hide her abilities. The events of the day had left their mark and she laid down. Rool curled up in the hollow of her body and started softly snoring. Urana could see the bright lights in her head and the voices. Suddenly she sat bolt upright .

"No it can't be here. We were always told it existed under the eye of the Guardians. it was only shown to the chosen. Only they could survive it. Surely these beings in this galaxy aren't worthy."

Rool opened an eye and blinked. Stroking his head she wiped away the tears that had formed in her eyes with a fist. She started intoning the power mantra. There was something she had to know. her mind linked with Rool's and they crept away ferreting through the confines of space for information. Somewhere in this galaxy there was a key. She'd almost given up the search when she felt an almost imperceptible tug on her neural matrices. Following the link she found herself in a spartanly furnished room. On the side table there was a clear cylinder containing a gently pulsing brain. A figure in black was bent over a coffin like structure. She could feel the waves of sadness emanating from the being as he lifted his head and looked at the brain.

"Not much longer my dear girl. It won't be much longer."

The resignation was apparent. Urana suddenly knew what was going to happen if not why. Disconnecting from the ogroop who'd also seen, she went calmly to sleep.

"You must be mad if you think that they can be ready by the end of next weeken."

"Hey, hey calm down, It's not just me. D'Argo thinks that they are improving so much that it's possible and Sout says that it's evident that they've been practising when they're home"

Crais came over a beaker in his hand.

"Crais you tell Crichton."

"Tell him what?"

"That they'll never be ready to attack the garrison by the end of next weeken!"

Crais looked inquiringly at Crichton who just shrugged his shoulders and mouthed something he couldn't catch. Aeryn however did, and aimed a fist to his solar plexus. Crichton doubled over as the wind was forced out of his system.

"You have to be careful with Captain Sun, Crichton. She can bite back! As I've found out several times."

Crichton was carefully unfolding himself.

"Yeah well I wouldn't know that. hey Aeryn that's not where you usually aim."

"This time there were different circumstances!"

"Crais you tell her!"

"Sorry Aeryn. This time I have to agree with Crichton." "I don't believe it!"

"It's all a matter of timing. I don't think we can keep this training operation secret for much longer. And as I see it surprise is at the core of the operation."

"Hit the nail right on the head there Crais. If they get a sniff of this, the Lideen security will be tighter than a politician's ass."

Aeryn looked stunned. The idea of Crais and Crichton actually agreeing on something was quite an innovation. She sat down on a rock and looked out over the valley. Crichton put a hand on her shoulder and failed to see the pained look in Crais's eyes.

"Hey come on. They'll make it. Their training may be minimal but they've got a cause. That can make all the difference! Earth history's littered with stories of groups with inferior weapons and training who have beaten well armed and disciplined armies."

Sout ambled over scratching his right ear.

"Couldn't help overhearing what you just said. I don't think Lideen discipline or morale are good at the moment and I think we've got a way to make it even worse."

he shouted to the Sheyang who was over the other side of the gully.

"Asp'nouth, come and tell them your idea."

The Sheyang waddled over as fast as he could and arrived puffing.

"Sorry I'm just not fit. My idea. Well you know the younger Lideen troopers have got the gambling bug."

They all nodded.

"How about we play on that?"

"Sounds good to me."

"Well what ever day you decide to attack, I presume it will be at night?"

"Catch them at their least alert then."

"Yes, well that afternoon I'll put on a special set of races. You know the general idea, to cement the frienship with our Lideen brethren and all that rubbish. I'll lay on a big party with plenty of osako."

He latched on to their blank faces.

"Osako's a drink they like. I should be able to acquire some which is considerably stronger than usual and I think I can guarantee that at least half the garrison will be sleeping soundly and the rest won't know what day it is."

Crichton laughed.

"I like it Aspi. You're my kinda guy. Just one thing though."

The Sheyang looked suddenly worried. "I haven't forgotten anything have I?"

"No, but would it be possible to send some of this osako stuff to the garrison? You know for the poor sods who can't get away to the races."

"Commander Crichton, that is inspired."

"Yeah well I thought it was pretty good."

"No trouble at all. A little something to cement good relations."

Sout was in fits of laughter. Aeryn glared at him.

"What's up with you. I don't see anything funny in that idea."

"Aeryn Sun it is evident you've never tasted osako."

"Well of course I haven't. This is the first time I've heard about it."

"Well I happen to have a small flask here. Please try it and tell me what you think."

Sout passed it first to Crichton who took a swig, ran it round his mouth and also burst out laughing.

"here, Aeryn you're gonna laugh your socks off too."

She took a tentative sip and she looked completely surprised.

"Tisane?"

"Sure. The Lideen get legless on cold tea."

"I seems that there's something in the herb that affects them."

"Oh boy that means we can drink 'till the cows come home and all we'll do is piss."

The Sheyang had realised by this time exactly what Crichton meant.

"If a couple of you come along and the Lideen youngsters are well lubricated then you may be able to liberate a key card or two."

"Have you got friends in the Thieves Guild?"

"Many. And they all owe me money!"

"That's the best way to have it."

"Crichton, do think Piqua could get us a keycard?"

Aspi suddenly began laughing which was a bit of a mistake because suddenly a lot of smoke and a small flicker of flame came out of his large mouth.

"Yotz. haven't been able to do that for at least two cycles. Something must be altering. You were inquiring abut Piqua. I don't know anyone with lighter fingers. She can lift the cobiles off a Sork without it feeling her!"

"I gather she's good then?"

"Oh the best my friend. The very best. But she won't join a clan. Prefers to work on her own. have you any idea when you're prepared to move?"

*****************

Davrol was feeling his age. Gone were the days when he could have taken on running the Dominar's palace and household. Exile and mounting frustration and finally resignation had taken their toll. he found solace now in fishing and the mountains. His only other pleasure was Zevoin's company. This day however she'd taken the message round the groups fixing the day for the attack on the garrison.

"No one will take any notice of an old woman visiting her relations."

She taken a basket full of sweetmeats and under them the chips to arm the the modified pulse rifles. They'd all been delivered to the groups in various ways a couple of days previously. Feeling rather at a loose end at the camp, he'd picked up his fishing gear and some food and made his way to a swiftly running mountain stream. Well it would be swiftly running in the down season, but right now it was more of a lazy trickle. There were however several deep dark pools along its way which had been scoured out aeons before during one of the planet's more active periods. he felt confident of finding a routt or two there. They would provide a welcome relief from dried pocan meat.

Laying down his blanket on a flat rock, he sat down and started assembling his rod and net.There was a slight heat haze over the far bank and the air was warm by the pool but not oppressive. Having assembled his gear he cast his lure and put the rod up on the stand. There wasn't all that much chance of a bite during the heat of the day so he spread the blanket on the ground and using his bag as a pillow, laid down and closed his eyes. He never knew exactly what woke him but he opened his eyes to see a face in the heat haze. As he focussed on it he realised that it was insubstantial. he also took in the sheer horror of that disembodied head with its rows of sharp pointed teeth and blood red eyes which seemed to flare with fire. Remaining immobile through sheer terror, he watched as it came closer. One thing he noticed was that it seemed to hover round a particular point on the far side of the pool.

There was the sound of a hideous echoing growl as the creature opened its jaws wide, just above Dravol's unprotected head. he breathed a prayer to the Goddess convinced that his last microt was nigh. Then suddenly it was gone. The Egadonian was riveted to the spot hardly daring to breathe even when the apparition vanished. Eventually his heart stopped pounding and logic began to return to his brain.

"Oh my oh my! Just what was that?"

His rod was still leaning lifeless against its stand, so on rather wobbly legs he decided to walk round to the other side of the pool. There was a thick coppice of coridon trees and he had to make his way through their thick shade. Finding himself almost exactly opposite to where his rod was set up, he started looking around him. At first he saw nothing unusual but suddenly out of the corner of his eye he caught a glint of something shiny half hidden under a low bush. Carefully he made his way over and gently parted the vegetation. A shiny blue metallic hemisphere was winking in the sunlight. Ever wary he poked it with a stick. Nothing happened and he ventured to pick it up. The top wassmooth with just a small knob on the centre. he turned it over. Some symbols were etched on the bottom and a tiny amber light was blinking.

"I'll see if Commander Crichton and his people know what this is."

He placed it into his belt pouch and fastened the top then he stared into the darkness of the undergrowth and noticed that there was a large rock in its midst. Pushing his way through he stood in front of it. In the gloom it looked completely natural and he was about to leave and make his way back to his rod when he saw that there was a smooth protuberance on the left hand side. Curiosity got the better of him and he placed his hand over it. There was a whirring sound and part of the rock face slid into the ground. he peered into the darkness of the cavity and noticed the the inside was emitting a faint blue glow and this cold light was feebly illuminating a collection of objects. Overcoming his reticence he lifted out the nearest object. It was a vase of a type he'd never seen before, banded with gold and iridium and encrusted with stones. Suddenly he burst out laughing.

"Well it was always here in myth and children's tale but I never thought it really existed. Oh this is going to help no end. Barnstup's Treasury. And I found it. Just wait until I tell the others."

He put the vase back and picked up a small bracelet from off the ground. That was also richly ornamented and intricately made. He slipped it into pouch to join the hemisphere.

"Now how the frell do I close it?"

He looked for another catch but failed to find one. Finally in complete frustration he kicked the rough exterior of the rock and almost slipped on a patch of dead leaves and grabbed hold of the protruding lump to save himself. The door rose effortlessly fron the ground to seamlessly seal the rock. he walked back to the fishing area humming a tune which was popular at the time and was pleased to noticed that he had a bite. half an ahn later he packed up his gear after adding a fat routt to his bag. There was a spring in his step as he made his way back to the cavern.

***********

"Anyone seen Davrol?"

Crichton shook his head at Sout's question. D'Argo lifted his head off the cushion where he'd laid it in complete exhaustion after he'd seen the last of his charges go on their way.

"I believe he's gone fishing."

"Lucky man! What I wouldn't give for a nice quiet pool, a hickory rod and some lazy ol' catfish. Can't think of a better way to pass an hour or two."

"Why did you want to ask him something?"

"Only problem is I need some materials to replicate the Lideen voice phonemes. There seems to be a distinct lack of currency in the groups."

Aeryn shook her hair. She'd released it from its braid and was savouring the freedom.

"You could ask the Thieves Guild for help."

"Only wanted to do that as a last resort."

Davrol came jauntily into the gully, whistling and grinning all over his face.

"You'll never believe what I've just found!"

They all turned to look at him.

"Well you look pleased with yourself!"

"So would you!"

He opened his pouch and brought out the two artefacts. Aeryn peered at the bracelet.

"Just look at the detail!"

"I'd say the finances just took a turn for the better!"

Crichton was more interested in the hemisphere.

"What's that gizmo do?"

Davrol grinned.

"Well it gave me the fright of my life for a start!"

He explained exactly what had happened. Crais picked up the shining object.

"Similar to Peacekeeper design. Portable holomessagers, but this one seems to have a few extras such as proximity trigger. Clever adaptation though!"

"Think we've found the source of the vaaldak legend."

"This isn't THAT old!"

"Perhaps they died out. Who's to know? Anyway I'd say Egredon has found its piggybank!"

Davrol looked pleased.

"Perhaps you'd all like to share a meal with me this evening?"

He lifted the routt out of the bag.

"Extremely tasty!"