The voodoo priestess held her baby tightly. She was attended by
several servants as they walked through the wild forests of
Dakkari.
A thick mane of red hair tousled about her back. Wild eyes of
brightest jade were nearly luminous in the twilight.
"Mistress, we should rest now. It's been a long journey."
The curvaceous jaw jutted defiantly. "No thanks to political
hysteria. How dare they make us outcasts on our own world!"
A heavyset servant answered, brightly robed. Geometric color
dotted his wide face. The other servants also wore various body
paint under their garb.
"Perhaps they should feel our power. To think that our clan
cannot surface anywhere without being persecuted!"
The baby burbled, curling closely against his mother.
Tallandra smiled, kissing the round face. "Agreed, Togo. I have
debated the merits of vengeance here."
A thin woman piped up, her hair cut in angled layers. Oval
designs circled her deep blue eyes.
"Milady, I must speak. What fate for little Oban? Surely
Qui-Gon is long gone, ne'er to return. And you know the current
laws. Zealots would attempt to kill him on sight!"
Tallandra pointed to a nearby grove. "They'll be bitterly
disappointed, Geggli. We'll settle here for the night and
rejoin the others later. You dare speak so of my beloved?!"
"I meant no disrespect, but he escaped with the other Jedi from
their failed mission-"
Green eyes blazed with unholy light. "He was removed by
his own kind and stolen from me. Stolen!! Now our child must
suffer, not knowing his father" she held the baby close
once more. Small arms encircled her long neck.
Tallandra looked to the heavens. Birds and various wild animals
caterwauled in the approaching night. Dim rainbow color had
given way to evening velvet patterned with stars.
Her eyes were moist. "It enrages me so. Damn, I loved
him! I love him still. Where are you, Qui-Gon, my firebreather?
Do you think of me?" tears ran down her cheek.
Obi-Wan sensed her distress, cuddling in tight.
Togo approached her. "Come. We will weave a spell of rest and
containment. Vii and Qazz will assist" he motioned the others
to begin.
The sorcerers stood in a circle, chanting words of ancient
power. Incandescent fire blazed in a bright ring.
Tallandra sat at the root of a huge Bahg tree, Obi-Wan cradled
safely in her arms.
The witch stared into equally green eyes. There is a
darkness in you, my little one. Someday it will grow, for you
are more than what you seem. This I know in my heart.
Obi-Wan smiled with needle teeth. Tiny claws pulled at his
mothers' sleeves as he was held.
Tallandra was serene as her servants conjured, her thoughts
wandering once more.
Despite our love, Qui-Gon is an enigma to me. I doubted my
sorcerous senses. How could a Jedi be dark? Was he attempting
to mask his true essence?
She traced a slender finger along the baby's nose. Obi-Wan
gurgled.
Strange. These teeth.
She palmed a tiny hand, pressing a finger. A small claw popped
out.
What is this? Is my child a demon?
Qazz interrupted her thoughts, his long hair swaying in the
breeze.
"It is a portent, milady" he picked up on her thoughts. "The
dark ones favor us."
She looked up slowly. "Perhaps, but this still disconcerts me.
How can such a child come from a Jedi?"
The tall Dakkaran considered. "He may be touched. We may yet
return to prominence in time."
Tallandra stood up. "He does have latent ability, I can
sense it. If harnessed properly, he could well be the most
powerful sorceror Dakkan has ever seen. Ha! Our political
enemies had best beware."
Qazz motioned her to the fire where the others sat. "Come,
mistress. Let us recite our nocturnus puge durnuiim with
the others."
The lovely sorceress strode towards her ring of servants. "A
small plague upon my tormentors would indeed aid my sleep this
night."
The sorcerers sang black songs throughout the night in the deep
wood. Wild light and shadow danced across their bodies as they
danced nude around crackling flames. Obi-Wan lay upon a soft
pile of furs, rolled in a cocoon.
Tallandra laughed, her red mane flying in the wind.
So do we Dakkari dance the night
hear our chant, hide in fright
Cast out
Now doubt
In a cage
feel our rage
Toss and turn, toil and burn
We rule their fear
their souls will follow
Let spell of doom
escape this hollow
chant on, chant on
forever run
eternity is ours
retribution done!!
With upraised arms the darklings coaxed the flames higher and
higher, until they rivalled the height of trees.
WELL DONE, CHILDREN a cavernous voice boomed, rocking
the dark glade.
Geggli laughed madly. "The gods answer! NOW shall our enemies
pay!!"
"Be silent and attend!" Tallandra commanded as they stared at
the fire.
The flames grew and bloomed, firing high into the sky. Eerie
pretenatural shadow and color blanketed the forest under
midnight stars.
The heavy Togo could barely contain his glee. "Among the
flames. A shape forms!! Heed it, all of ye!"
They stood back. In hushed awe they witnessed a shape coalesce
and take form in the fire. Long, dark and sinuous it curled,
flowing among the flames.
"WITH PRIDE DO YE WEAR THE MANTLE OF DARKNESS."
"Even so" Tallandra replied. "And our lord is?"
A shape formed, serpentine and fine. Rainbow hues flashed with
every concievable color. Gemlike eyes observed the conclave.
In wonder the Dakkari stared. The serpent was marvelous to look
at, luminous and glowing even as the fire damped.
"Look upon me. Do ye know who I am?"
Boldened, Tallandra approached first. Shapely hands slid along
massive coils, across the flat head.
Her eyes closed briefly. "Hail to thee, serpent lord Chaos.
Great Litthsyss."
The others quickly kneeled. "All hail!"
The huge snake bobbed his head. "Well ssaid, children. A
long and weary way have I come to be with you this night. And I
enjoyed your ssong."
"You do us great honor" Tallandra said. "But...what brings you
hence? Surely, your appearance is a portent."
Litthsyss slipped among the group, observing them closely. A
whipping tongue tasted along their skin as he moved.
"Excellent. Indeed, there is much to relay this night in
terms of newss."
Togo stepped forward. "Will our people return to prominence?"
Litthsyss curled around a huge rock. "Eventually, but
there will be many ssacrifices. One life in particular brings
me here."
He canted his head over to Obi-Wan. "The child. Bring him
to me."
Tallandra picked up Obi-Wan. "This is my son-"
The serpent whuffed, nosing the infant. "I know thiss,
daughter of darkness. No harm will come to him. However, he
must be claimed."
Green eyes flashed. "Claimed? He is my child! None will take
him. I loved his father, but he is gone from my life forever.
Obi-Wan is mine!"
Litthsyss burbled with laughter. "You defy me?"
Tallandra stood off. "With all that I have! I've lost Qui-Gon,
I won't lose our son!"
"Mistress, this isn't wise" Qazz piped up. "Should we defy the
gods, they will withold their favors-"
"Silence, Qazz. My son is not a sacrifice, gods or no!"
Litthsyss curled about her sinuously, slowly. Tallandra
shivered at the erotic sensations against her bare skin. A coil
slipped between her legs as a distraction.
"I would never harm Obi-Wan" the voice was smooth
as silk. "I do but proclaim hiss true heritage this
night."
"I...ah" Tallandra fought delicious sensations running through
her. She clutched Obi-Wan tightly.
The other Dakkari chanted. "Favor Litthsyss this night, O
Queen!"
Litthsyss constricted against the thatch at her groin
deliberately. "You are lovely, truly a worthy mother of
the dark. Sshall I tell you?"
Tallandra arched. "Tell me, damn you. Then set me free!"
"Open thy minds, Dakkari, and I will sspeak."
They stood transfixed. Litthsyss spoke in silence as he coiled
tightly about Tallandra and Obi-Wan, vibrating his long form.
Tallandra struggled to contain an oncoming orgasm.
The serpent laughed in her mind. Useless, sweet one. I will
tickle your flower and ssset it aflame.
The witch gasped. "You...mentioned a tale. Speak it, then!"
A forked tongue teased her ear as she shattered, clutching the
baby in one arm while clawing a coil with the other. Red hair
tousled as her head fell back in ecstacy.
"Ghods...ahh..."
"Not sso bad, I would think" Litthsyss stated.
The one you hold is heir to a dark kingdom beyond mortal
ken."
Tallandra managed to gather herself. "Speak on."
"Oban Ssarparti, the Slayer. He who reapss what the
dragon sows. Prince of Hel and royal regent of darkness. Primal
power among the principles."
Tallandra loosed herself of the serpent hold. "Surely, all this
didn't come from my blood. I'm not a goddess."
Obi-Wan cuckled.
Litthsyss bobbed once more. "You ssell yourself short,
daughter. For tho' mortal born, thy soul iss touched with
immortality."
Realization struck Tallandra. "Qui-Gon!" she blurted. "I
suspected-"
"Your suspicionsss concerning your lost love are correct.
He too is massked."
Togo started up. "Then we were deceived out of necessity? He is
no Jedi?"
The huge serpent coiled in a pile. "There are deceptions
all around. Qui-Gon is Jedi trained, but not mortal
born."
"But why would he deceive me? We shared everything."
"Not intentional, daughter. His passt is hidden by
necessity."
Tallandra considered. "Then, he is also unaware of his true
identity."
"Aye. Now all of ye, gather about my coilss, for tonight
is a night of celebration!"
Qazz was delighted. "We have blood and sweetmeats to offer,
mighty one!"
A forked tongue whipped about. "Excellent! We will
feasst, and then regale the night away with talesss of eternity
and darkness."
Throughout the dark forest, creatures fled from Dakkari war
whoops.
The moon rose high against sparkling stars. The cultists
dressed and sat among the snake's coils, their cowls obscuring
their features over eerie red flames.
"Ah, the familiarity of a fire" Litthsyss hissed
softly. "There'ss nothing like it. Ssso primal.
So...senssual."
Togo agreed, wrapping a coil about himself like a blanket. "The
simplest life is the best, lord. Well said."
"Even sso. Now shall I speak of darkness impeccable and
eternity absolute. Silence, all."
In rapt attention they listened as the serpent spoke in
silence.
Throughout the seemingly timeless night Litthsyss spoke of
things seen and not seen, reality and beyond the veil. Even
Obi-Wan attempted to sit, though he was still too young. He
toppled against his mother repeatedly.
A few hundred yards away they were being observed. Two men
dressed in dark clothing huddled in fear against montrous tree
roots.
"Well?" one whispered. "Have you seen enough?"
The other nodded. "The Prefect must be told. This clan is
dangerous as ever."
"True, Noknei. At least some of their vile kind have run off
into obscurity."
"Sshh! Keep your voice down" the first man peered across the
dark glade. "Look! What manner of creature is that among them?"
"If I hadn't seen this with my own eyes...will anyone believe
us?"
"Surely it's the devil. Look at that black conclave!"
Tallandra smiled serenely at her son. Bright green eyes
regarded her as the infant nestled quietly.
Geggli appeared perplexed, running her hands along Litthsyss'
length.
"Milord, excuse my seeming ignorance, but you are no ordinary
serpent."
"True. But why strange?"
Geggli leaned back, making a pallet. "Serpents are cold
blooded. Your coils are warm. Boiling hot, in fact."
The snake threw his head back, hissing in laughter. This
is my spirit form only. Did you not suspect?"
"Not until I felt your coils."
Tallandra looked up suddenly. "Hold. We are being observed."
Qazz made a gesture at the air. "A hundred yards off. Two of
the Prefect's Ambade trackers."
The bulky Togo shook a fist. "They dare? Isn't it enough we
live as outcasts?"
Afe cackled. He was oldest of the clan, the last of the
previous generation of sorcerers. Withered hands waved wildly.
"Mistress, a spell! I'll change them into Moray birds.
Let their chirping aid the Prefect then!"
Tallandra laughed. "We could do with a bit of amusement."
Litthsyss turned his head a bit. "Hmm. No doubt, they
would run. However, events dictate they escape to tell their
'tale'."
"Surely you jest, dark one" Geggli pulled her chin in thought.
"Should they survive, we will suffer. The political climate is
currently averse to those with our...talents."
"To be certain" Ulroc spoke for the first time, his sharp
features grim. He pulled his cloak about himself tightly. "We
were once feared and respected by the general populace prior to
the last elections. Everything was fine until those damnable
psychics interfered in our buisness. Nothing's been the same
since."
Litthsyss was silent a moment. "There will be a chain of
circumstances, and you must be patient. Pivotal events will
shape the outcome of this drama."
Ulroc pointed into the darkness. "What of our visitors in the
meantime?"
Litthsyss closed his jaws with a snap. "We run them
around a bit."
Noknei and Sektor still huddled near the ground a few hundred
yards away.
"Let's go. Something doesn't feel right" Noknei looked about
nervously.
"Will you knock it off?!" his irritated companion complained.
"We'll go soon enough. Don't draw attention-"
"Can't you see they're looking this way?"
Secktor peered at the dark glade. The huge serpent suddenly
appeared to be 'staring' directly at them in the dark. Hooded
figures likewise turned from their seated positions.
Secktor gulped. "Maybe we're too far away to see..."
Noknei pulled his sleeve. "You think this is a coincidence?
Let's go while we can. I'm not certain our laser rifles will do
us any good against that creature."
Secktor nodded reluctantly. They slowly withdrew, not turning
their backs.
Litthsyss lifted his tail. "Observe, children. From the
depths I do call the Karboon to entertain our friends!"
Shafts of eerie blue flame erupted from the ground itself.
KRAKKKK!!!
Weird skeletal beings stood before them, clear flesh
luminescent. Blue fire enveloped their forms. They were adorned
in spiked armor and armed with deadly blades.
One stepped forward. All hail. What does Chaos command this
night?
Litthsyss hissed. "Those mortal trackers. Run them about,
chase them away.
A bony arm slashed the air with a sword. Slay them?
"Not these, Quella. But give them a few gentle
injuries."
The Karboon laughed, a cracking harsh sound.
Well enough, O Chaos. All good with thee too, Dakkari. But
may I be allowed to see the new heir first?
Litthsyss bobbed his head. Look well, all of you. One day
thiss little one will stand tall as your lord.
Tallandra sat apprehensively as the demons looked over Obi-Wan.
Bony hands touched the round face. The baby tried to bite.
Needle teeth chewed on stick-like fingers.
Skeletal faces cracked smiles.
A fiery one!
Strong and wild. Well will he rule.
Aye, dragon spawn.
The youngling is perfect commented still another
Karboon. Milady, you should be proud.
Tallandra stared at their faces, crazed eyes in bony sockets.
"Indeed" her voice was subdued.
Littthsyss hissed again. Let there be no more delay. Run
those foolss out of here!
Shrieking banshees raced at their quarry in the dark wood.
"Let's get the fug out of here!!!" Secktor screamed.
"You don't have to tell me twice!!" Noknei nearly shouted as
they bounded away.
SKREEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!
"Damn, what's that gawd awful noise?!" Noknei yelled in full
sprint.
"Turn around and look if you want" Secktor panted, streaking
near him. "It's all I can do to keep running."
Bony jaws clacked together as the bizarre apparitions closed on
them, waving long blades.
"Freaking skeletons!!" Noknei reached in his cloak
"What are you doing?!"
"This!!" he turned and fired. Laser cannon blasts struck a
Karboon square on the breastplate of his armor.
SKREEEE!!! Filthy mortal!! columns of blue flame erupted
from the skull head.
"Great, now you've pissed them off" Secktor gasped.
The others observed the wild scene as it diminished from view.
Blue flame cast eerie light throughout the deep wood.
"It would appear our nosey friends have met a sorry fate" Afe
barely held his glee.
Togo chortled. "You old bag of bones. It's a sure bet. I'll
lay...three pieces of gold"
"You're on!"
Ha Litthsyss laughed as he observed the baby. Obi-Wan
stood up in his mother's lap, vainly reaching small arms out.
Ulroc snapped his fingers. "Perhaps we should join the fun to
insure calamity."
Litthsyss turned his head. A good thought. But as I said,
they won't be slain. Just banged around a bit.
"A pity, mighty one."
Tallandra casually glanced in the direction of screams that
faded in the distance. Obi-Wan bounced and squirmed.
"Be still, Obi-Wan. Your guest of honor is here to celebrate
you."
Once again Obi-Wan stretched in the direction of Litthsyss.
Tallandra lifted an eyebrow. "Methinks you should hold him,
Lord. He seems determined."
Even so Litthsyss shifted.
There was a beat of silence as rainbow serpent gave way to
statuesque beauty. Stone green eyes penetrated long black
lashes. Red blonde hair shimmered against the moonglow. A broad
shouldered body of chiseled perfection was clad in green scale
armor with winding serpents. A reddish glow cast by the fire
shaded the high cheekbones and full lips.
Tallandra had her share of lovers and wasn't easily impressed.
But the sight of Litthsyss rendered her speechless.
Togo managed to speak first. "Truly, you are a Lord of Lords."
Nods and murmurs among the others.
Vii found her voice as well. Loose ringlets of burgundy framed
soft features.
"Hmm. Perhaps Litthsyss could stay another night or two?" she
eyed him slowly.
"Ask your mistress. She's said nothing since I abandoned my
serpent form."
Tallandra pursed her lips, suppressing a smile. "You are vain."
"Have you no other word for me?" the snake god teased. "Since I
don't seem to impress you, perhaps I should get undressed."
That elicited some whoops.
Ulroc gave a weird grin. "I might be tempted to switch,
milord."
"Debauchery, anyone?" Geggli snickered.
The serpent can quench any fire.
Vii stroked his chest. "What good celebration with no party,
eh?"
The snake god gave a deep laugh. "Loose witch. Priorities
first, please. I would view Oban up close."
Goldtone eyes winked at him. "I'll follow you on a flame and
cloud."
"My castle is open to your visit. Then we will discuss
matters."
Tallandra glared at her. "Maybe a swim in the icy river would
help."
"There's plenty for all, mistress. You needn't be possessive of
our Lord's attentions-"
Tallandra abruptly stood and stalked towards her, leaving
Obi-Wan on his pallet of furs.
"See to it, Vii, that I don't turn you into a brainless
oadworm. Then you could preen in the mud!"
Litthsyss stepped between them. Gemlike eyes bored into
Tallandra.
"I will hold Oban now" the voice was silky baritone. A soft
smile spread when he sensed her desire. "Such fire, milady.
Perhaps we should let it explode?"
"Aye, but not alone" Vii persisted.
"Silence, Vii" Tallandra didn't take her eyes off of Litthsyss.
"Stand off. Mine is first right here."
The others snickered with knowing glances. Afe nudged Ulroc.
"She'll have our lord on a stick and eat him, that's for sure."
"Down to the last lick" Togo added, smug.
Geggli picked up the infant. "Here is our prodigy. Look at him
well!"
Litthsyss took Obi-Wan from her. Powerful arms cradled the baby
as he settled and cooed.
The snake god nearly glowed, nuzzling his face against the
small one. A growling purr escaped him. Obi-Wan pulled his ear,
clucking happily.
The Dakkari were silent, observing. Tallandra stared, her eyes
widening as comprehension dawned.
Ulroc whispered to Qazz. "See how he looks at the child! Power
that could crush a universe holds Obi like an egg."
Qazz murmured back. "I begin to suspect-"
Litthsyss ignored them all. //One day, Oban. There is a
universe before thee.//
A tiny mind voice answered. /Know you./
//Yes, little one. I am one who loves you.//
/Love too./
//One day we will be together.//
/Go now? Belong./
//Not now. Later.//
The entire exchange took less than a minute. Togo broke the
quiet.
"By your expression milord, I would say you're delighted."
Blazing eyes lifted abruptly. "sss. I find the infant
fascinating. A darklord must bear examination."
Tallandra approached. "Liar. I have a question."
Litthsyss gave her a tiny smile. "A bold accusation. What is it
you suspect?"
She looked at them both a moment. "This is no mere examination
or claim of identity. You knew that before you arrived. What
did you say to my son?"
"I said?"
"You test me. I saw you speak as you did in serpent form."
Ulroc also eyed them critically. "Mistress has a point. There
is a...seeming here. Do you understand my meaning?"
The others murmured in agreement.
"I have no use for your riddles, sorcerer" Litthsyss settled on
a patch of grass near the fire. Obi-Wan molded against him,
tucking in tightly.
Tallandra stalked over, dropping next to them both. "Then I
will say what the others can now see. It's plain as your face."
A sidelong look. "Say your piece, woman."
"My son...is kin to you."
Slow smile. "Oh? And how could that be. Didn't you love
the Jedi Qui-Gon?"
Tallandra snorted. "Jedi trained and not mortal born, I believe
you said. I say again you're connected in some way. The
resemblence is obvious."
Geggli pointed. "This is a test, mistress. Did you mark
what one of the demons said? Spawn of the dragon, he called
little Obi-Wan. Think!"
"My firebreather" Tallandra said under her breath. "What of
Qui-Gon?!"
"Wrong question" Litthsyss gave her a fanged grin. "Ask me
about your son."
"I'd rather ask about yours."
"Insolent wench. You dare?"
"My senses lead me true, as always" Tallandra stated coolly.
"Initially I dared not believe. But I see it, feel it. The
source runs strong."
Slate green eyes darkened to steel. Clever girl. A reward,
then. Look into the flames.
Enraptured, they all stared into the fire. A scene took shape.
A temple. Robed figures talking.
Tallandra's breath caught.
A lone figure sat in a garden. Broad shoulders slumped. A face
etched in sadness.
Tears welled up over jade eyes. "My Qui-Gon" she whispered
brokenly. "He suffers so. I must go to him. You torture me!!"
Geggli went to her side, comforting. "Sshh, mistress. It isn't
torture, but knowledge. Calm yourself. Look at Obi-Wan!"
Afe stared. "Yea. He recognizes his father!"
It was true. Obi-Wan reached at the flaming image. He began to
cry.
"Stop this!!" Tallandra shouted.
'Tis done. Litthsyss snapped his fingers.
Tallandra dropped her head, sobbing. "Damn you. Why did you
show that?"
Obi-Wan howled miserably. Litthsyss touched the small forehead.
//Be at peace, little one.//
/Want mommy. She hurt./
//She loves you.//
/Want other. Where!/
//Your father waits for you. Not now.//
A sniffle. Obi-Wan quieted, reaching for his mother. Litthsyss
handed him to her.
"Daughter, you misunderstand me. I wanted you to know your
beloved didn't die in those bombings during that chaotic
Jedi mission."
Tallandra cuddled Obi-Wan tightly. "He lives, that's all that
matters. Now that I think of it..." green eyes were wild as her
mind turned.
Litthsyss eyed her sternly. "Hold, sorceress. The knowledge was
not given for you to act upon it."
"Perhaps Qui-Gon can be brought here among us" Togo suggested.
"Easily could he turn with awareness of his heritage."
"Think of the power at our disposal!" Qazz shouted, unable to
contain himself.
Afe waved his hands in circles. "Ah yes. One day we'll be gods
ourselves!"
Vii smiled. "Virtually unstoppable. This is but one world,
though our magics are of great renown-"
"You presume too much, mortals!!" Litthsyss
thundered. A bolt of lightning struck the ground nearby.
Obi-Wan giggled at the noise.
"Yikkah!" /Funny boom. All scared./
They shrunk back, huddling in their seated positions. Litthsyss
stood like a god of retribution, power crackling from his form.
"We meant no offense" Togos' voice was small.
But Tallandra was still defiant. "Blow and bluster, then. Since
when is lust for power a poor thing?!"
Cold smile. A hand lifted her chin as ageless eyes stared
searchingly.
"Well can I understand Quogan's choice. What a goddess you
would make!"
"I would be with my beloved. Where is the harm in that?!"
To her amazement, he kissed her. Too many twists of fate are
at play. I can't reveal them all. Suffice to say you must
remain here to assure Obans' safety.
"But what of Qui-Gon!"
He is in pain, but it will pass. Many changes are in store
for his life. Trust me in this.
"I'm apprehensive."
You should be. But Qui-Gon is protected for the time
being.
"Everyone else is being protected. What of my needs?!"
Litthsyss pointed at the baby. "Focus on the matter at hand,
sorceress. Your heart need no longer be heavy with grief, and
you still have your son."
Obi-Wan gummed her fingers to emphasize the point.
"My son tries to have me for dinner" Tallandra looked down
gently.
Litthsyss looked to the sky. I sense dawn will soon
approach.
The Dakkari stared upward. Though dark, the skies showed a
slight shift in color. The moon was low over the western
horizon. Forest creatures chittered and roared in the distance.
"You will leave us shortly, then. It's been an eventful night"
Togo stated.
Litthsyss nodded. "True. The Dakkari are highly favored by the
Darklords. Later there will be the birthing ceremony. All will
be in attendance."
Excited murmurs. Afe smoked a roll of booga leaves,
nodding.
"The council will preside then" long fingers played with his
pipe. "Will we see our black matron, the wolf?"
Tallandra glanced at Litthsyss. "It would complete the circle
if she attended, and most proper."
Perfect features regarded her. She will attend, be assured.
All the major regents and principalities will view Oban.
"But when and where?"
Litthsyss considered. "You will be contacted. A darklord will
visit with information regarding preparations."
"Reearrgh!!" Obi-Wan blurted, a weird and eerie squeal. Small
arms flapped wildly in excitement.
/Is for me!/
The Dakkari laughed. Qazz pointed at the infant, amused.
"Amazing. It would seem our heir apparent understands what's
happening."
"Squiqq" Obi-Wan grinned, sticking his tongue out.
Tallandra could barely keep from laughing again. "He certainly
makes enough noise. But it's understandable considering all the
excitement!"
Litthsyss kneeled and thumbed tiny lips.
So, little Oban. It appears you prefer the wild night life.
There will be plenty ahead!
The infant's eyes sparkled like emeralds. /Play./
He stood again. Nights wild and wonderful for you also,
Dakkari. Hel and Limbo both hold thee in interest, and know
that places reside for all."
Their attention was diverted. Hideous shrieks grew closer as
heavy footed Karboon crashed through foilage nearby. A blue
glow precluded their appearance.
Litthsyss smiled."Apparently those two nuisances have been
dealt with."
The skeletal demons bounded into the glade.
Hail, all regents of the dark. Our goal was met with
success.
Togo nodded. "A shame. We could have joined in the fun."
Quella stepped forward. A deed well done nonetheless. The
mortals are dispatched and injured.
"Will they be found?" Geggli wondered, sampling a smoke from
Afe's pipe.
Yea, soon enough another Karboon replied. We left
them by the river for the nearby authorities to find. Of course
they'll have difficulty speaking for quite some time.
The snake god glanced upward once more. The skies were
unmistakably shifting now. Deep purple gave way to muted blues
and oranges. The moon faded, sinking below the horizon.
"Dawn approaches" he stated, waving a gesture.
"To Limbo with thee!"
Hail Chaos! the Karboon dissolved into wisps of smoke
and disappeared.
Vii eyed Litthsyss once again. "Impressive, Lord. I presume you
have many other talents" brazenly she approached him.
A graceful hand traced along powerful thighs. Litthsyss gave a
bemused smile.
Vii moved her hands upward. "Between these lies much mischief."
He growled softly. "A strong minded one. I should drag you
away, witch."
She slipped against him. "A good drag. Could the tables be
turned?"
HA! I do like this. But time grows short. The sun rises as
we speak!
"True" Tallandra agreed. "Stand aside, Vii. Our Lord returns
home."
Litthsyss surveyed them all slowly. Blessed are all of
you razor clear eyes rested on Tallandra.
And you most of all, daughter, for you hold The Prince of
the flame.
Tallandra held her head high. "An honor which I bear gladly. My
son's royal heritage must be nutured."
An unreadable expression flickered across the handsome face.
He will grow to power beyond mortal reckoning. Care well
for...for Oban.
Obi-Wan watched. /Bye. See later./
Litthsyss stared softly. //Yes, wa'bee.//
"Hail, O Chaos!!" the Dakkari shouted. "Keep well the deep."
Strength in darkness.
Flame began to envelope the powerful form. Tallandra smiled
widely.
"Your grandson will be fine."
Wild eyes went wide as the god faded. Woman, I never
said...
"You didn't have to."
The sorcerers hailed the visitation, seeing it as an omen. The
morning did little to dampen their enthusiasm. Possibilities
for the future were discussed along with immediate strategies.
In a circle they sat in the glade, eating breakfast and
drinking wine. Obi-Wan crawled in the soft grass between them.
"Better times are ahead."
"Agreed, Vii. Our life is difficult, but bearable. Fear is our
greatest ally" Ulroc stated.
"I've sent a raven to bring word to the others" Tallandra told
them all. "They will join us by week's end."
Togo puffed a bong pipe. "Good news, mistress. We'll need to be
at full strength for what lies ahead."
Geggli combed her hair. "What of Qui-Gon? Is it conceivable he
would join us at some point?"
"It may not be workable" Togo replied. "Remember, he is Jedi by
training. As such, he could never accept our lifestyle or
doctrines. His love of our mistress was the only bond."
"Love" Tallandra was too quiet all of a sudden. She suddenly
looked up at the bright skies.
"However, he lives. For now I am content with the knowledge.
Would that I could touch his mind, without endangering his
protection."
Ulroc played with Obi-Wan. The baby swiped at swirling smoke.
"He would come straightaway to your side. It's too risky right
now."
"Perhaps. But the future is another story" Tallandra replied,
hopeful for the first time. She gave a small smile.
Obi-Wan cared nothing about the future. Full of milk and
sleepy, he stretched across his mother. The sun felt warm to
his face.
/Be with happy./
With a yawn he nuzzled against Tallandra, his small head full
of dreams.
Deepest Hel.
A goddess lay resplendant in rainbow sheer robes. Jet black
hair fanned across satin pillows as she sprawled in wanton
comfort.
Llane patiently awaited the arrival of Litthsyss in her private
chambers. She didn't wait long.
A column of flame materialized.
"Greetings, Llane."
"Eventide, Null. Come, sit by my side."
Litthsyss did so. His shoulders slumped a bit as green eyes
darkened to deep grey.
Arctic blue ones bored. "What of little Oban? Tell me."
A pause. "He's everything we expected and more. The mind and
instinct of an immortal beat within his small frame. He knew me
right away."
Llane sat up, intrigued. "You wanted to bring him here."
Fangs clicked. "Both father and son I held, wanting both. My
soul burns!"
"SSSS. Would that it were so easy. Kreequfukker sii
nyfassym. Beexyh fugger axzzopinhug. Ufoi dek natursiv!!"
"Litthsyss..."
"Rey byvlp purvaq ne se DUKRUIGlFEAXX!!!" he
snarled, clawing the bed.
Llane shook him. Calm yourself, I say!!
Litthsyss glared at her. "A plague on your idiotic pacts,
woman! Both should be here. 'Tis nonsense all around!"
Llane snapped back. "As if I don't want them here?! It's
too late for recriminations. Pawns are in place and none may
leave the field."
Litthsyss stared at his hands. "His skin was so soft and
fragrant, like fresh Evlin blooms. I could scarce
believe how green his eyes are."
"Don't torture yourself. Patience. Events will be in our favor
eventually."
"Bah. I held Quogan and gave him away. I held Oban and handed
him back. Enough! I'll call a session with both hel council and
twilight lords!"
He bolted up to leave. Llane bounded to her feet, dragging him
back.
"You will not!!"
Litthsyss growled at her. "Let go of me, Lupin. You started
this sequence of events with your blunders!"
Llane's voice cracked. "Don't you think I regret my decision? I
love my son. I love my grandson. Not a day goes by that I don't
feel the space in my soul."
Litthsyss felt his anger drain at her sorrow.
Llane looked down. "Is even an immortal infallible? I think
not."
The snake god put an arm around her. They sat at the foot of
her thronebed.
"I've never heard such candor from you on this, Lupin"
Litthsyss was subdued.
A ragged sigh. "Little Oban. Was he a joy to hold?"
Small smile. "Aye, a little fireball. Impetuous and curious."
Llane took his hand. "Hmm. You say he was aware?"
"Completely. His current level of development prevents him from
expressing his perceptions accurately. But they exist
nonetheless."
Slender fingers combed through red blonde locks.
You should let your hair grow.
"Again with this.You dislike it short?"
She nosed his neck. sss. You look like a barbarian.
"Better than a mermaid. I endured too much foolishness in the
past because of it."
"Your own fault, Null. Thy looks destroy reason."
"Ssss."
"Despite the passing of eons, I never tire of looking at thee."
Litthsyss felt his body do strange things. "Woman, enough. You
seek to distract me-"
A healthy thigh rested across his own. Litthsyss caught a vague
sense of perfume from milky skin.
"Perhaps boiling heat can warm me this evening. Why rage when
strength can be spent on other pursuits?"
Litthsyss licked his lips. Horny witch. Off of me. I must
return to Limbo-
"Limbo can wait. Now let the serpent dance to my tune."
Three hours later Litthsyss found himself much calmer. Not to
mention sated. Llane poured wine past his lips.
"Sssssss."
"Drink, you're thirsty. A good boil tends to dry the throat."
The snake god gulped greedily.
"A fine thing. First you have your way and THEN get me
drunk."
She sprawled against him. Timing is everthing, Null.
A pause. "I meant what I said earlier."
"I know."
"I couldn't even tell that dear girl the truth...that she
probably won't survive to raise her son."
"You rather fancy her, no?"
"Aye. She is worthy, and defiant as any darklord."
"Null, the signs only point to the possibility. Tallandra's
destiny is not set."
He sat up, satin enveloping rippling muscle. Perhaps not.
Still, those wretched hags of fate will conspire to torment
Quogan.
"My vision in this matter is somewhat obscured" Llane admitted.
"And once Quogan's heritage is reclaimed we will know more. If
she is destined to fall he will avenge her."
Litthsyss closed his eyes. "Contingency plans must be made for
Oban."
Blue eyes were wild. "We'll send him to his father!"
Fool! Since when are the Jedi a haven for Darklords?
Mind thy words, snake. I may tie that cock in a knot. It's a
perfectly reasonable idea. Better to have them together once
the change takes place. Quogan can ease Oban through the
transition.
"sss. I'm uncomfortable with this idea, Lupin."
"Think of the irony then, once the truth is out. The Jedi will
be demoralized and through them, the Guardians!"
Litthsyss regarded her with a sly smile. "Now that idea
appeals to me greatly. It does my soul good to see the smug
Alfaa taken down a notch or two."
"To think that the Jedi will be nurturing Darklords...their
livers will burst!" she laughed, pouring more wine.
Litthsyss sipped his goblet. A twisted and masterful plan.
So be it, Llane. For now I'll comply. But this will be the last
time his voice held a bit of warning.
"Agreed" she squashed against him. Jet black tresses slipped
over his face like silk.
The snake god purred, nipping her neck.
//Would that little Oban were between us now, where he
belongs.//
Llane nuzzled. //Many things I want as well.//
//I want my son here! That pale existence is ridiculous and an
insult.//
//Let it go, Null. Time enough and eternity for that. Look to
the future.//
sss. I will.
He gestured, dimming the candle glow. There was no more
discussions that night.
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