Send your own ElfYourself eCards
2009-12-24
2009-12-20
OOC: Fun OOC quotes from corpmates
Yelan Zhou > /emote hammers against the Amarr stargate "noo let me in"
Yelan Zhou > I payed hundred of millions in taxes and now that........
Yelan Zhou > I demand transaction tax priority..........
Vaarun > aww...you guys are so sweet, I'm gonna puke a rainbow...
Shalee Lianne > im a bowl of fucking sunshine
Archbishop > the grass is always greener over the septic tank
Aldrith Shutaq > Oh dear Lord, we're out of caviar!
Shalee Lianne > oh yeah thats right
Shalee Lianne > youve unleashed the whine
Yelan Zhou > I payed hundred of millions in taxes and now that........
Yelan Zhou > I demand transaction tax priority..........
Vaarun > aww...you guys are so sweet, I'm gonna puke a rainbow...
Shalee Lianne > im a bowl of fucking sunshine
Archbishop > the grass is always greener over the septic tank
Aldrith Shutaq > Oh dear Lord, we're out of caviar!
Shalee Lianne > oh yeah thats right
Shalee Lianne > youve unleashed the whine
This last one was over IM, when I uploaded Mitara's portrait as a buddy icon for MSN -
Raphael Saint > Now Mitty's judgmental stare can haunt me at night too!
2009-12-06
A Great Day....?
Mitara sits in her study, looking out the viewport at the blanket of stars. On the side table sits an almost empty bottle of whiskey, and a half full glass of the same. After some time she speaks, still staring into the vastness...
Mitara takes the glass from the table and drinks it down, draining it.
She shakes her head as she picks up the bottle and tops of her glass. Mitara takes a long drink before return both the bottle and glass to the table.
She picks up the glass with a look of disgust and finishes it before slamming back down onto the table.
Her beeping datapad breaks her rant.
She switches her datapad off, looking back out into space. Suddenly she grabs the bottle and hurls it against the viewport. The bottle shatters, and what little whiskey that remains slowly drips down the picture of pinpointed stars outside the viewport. She turns and starts towards the door activating her communications implant...
Today the Empire saw it's greatest gains in the war to date. Egamar, Aset, and Isbrabata are now occupied by the Imperial Navy. There is celebration among the loyalists, and our Caldari allies.
Who can blame them? Is it not a great day?
Mitara takes the glass from the table and drinks it down, draining it.
Eighteen months. Our pilots have fought tooth and nail for eighteen months. Over this time we've lost many systems. But we've always reclaimed them quickly. We've even managed to take, and hold for some time now, Siseide and Lantorn.
Our Caldari allies have been in the theatre for just a matter of weeks, and already have been able to expose three systems bunkers.
She shakes her head as she picks up the bottle and tops of her glass. Mitara takes a long drink before return both the bottle and glass to the table.
I don't understand how they were able to accomplish such a feat. I've heard rumors they have high ranking contacts within the Republic, that their Navy has orders not to fire on them. Or maybe someone in the Republic has flat out turned traitor to their cause. I do not know, nor do I care, the Empire is reclaiming it's space, that is what does matter.
But.... The Caldari... They are doing what we are supposed to be doing. What we have failed to do.
She picks up the glass with a look of disgust and finishes it before slamming back down onto the table.
This is our fight. Our war. We are the ones who are to bring Glory to God's Empire, not some godless ISK worshippers!
Her beeping datapad breaks her rant.
"CALL TO ARMS: GUKARLA VULNERABLE!"
She switches her datapad off, looking back out into space. Suddenly she grabs the bottle and hurls it against the viewport. The bottle shatters, and what little whiskey that remains slowly drips down the picture of pinpointed stars outside the viewport. She turns and starts towards the door activating her communications implant...
Ready TEIS Upholder VIII...
2009-11-22
War of Words
"I do think I am beginning to understand. that you couldn't find a man that would have you."
What kind of monster am I? I look back now as I spoke those words, it was as if I wasn't the one speaking them. It was if I was watching myself from afar, but the voice was cold and vindictive.
I had every right to be furious, I know this much. Why I gave into her verbal abuse this day I cannot say. I have suffered her remarks without so much as batting an eye in the past. I surmise that even I have limits.
"I'd never thought.. oh well, I guess its normal for such lowborn scum as you to act like this, I should never have begun trusting you like this.. you're no better than him, you're just.. scum, you Ni-Kunni are all the same."
There was nothing behind her words. They were weak, powerless. I had hardened myself to a much more furious onslaught, but it never came.
"Shut up you low born runaway, you have no idea, you hear me, no idea at all, and now get out of my eyes and wash some rags or something."
It was like something in me smelled her vulnerability and struck like a predator sensing the kill, and strike I did. I did not feel the slightest hesitation, and I savored her inability to respond.
"Hmm? No quips forthcoming? I really expected more of you, Laerise"
My victory was complete.
"I hate you."
"I no longer care what you think of me."
I meant it, at least for a time.
Now all I can think of is how horrible it was. How I let myself become so vicious, regardless of what she says. I let myself... I let Aldrith down behaving in such a manner. I'm not sorry for thinking those thoughts, I feel they are correct, but I did act out as she says... in a low born manner, like scum. Do I care what she thinks of me? God help me, but I do.
For that, I hate myself.
2009-11-18
Of Dreams and Nightmares
The evening started well enough. Small talk about the war zone, about missing him, about a future Praetorian wedding between Lianne and Saint. That last bit of information came as quite a surprise.
I was in the Basilica, sitting at the waters edge, my thoughts wandering between the war, Aldrith, and the wedding date that had just been set by my sister.
"Because I'm going to marry Raphael."
A simple statement she made to Chancellor Karvash as they walked passed, and all the feelings of initially hearing of my sister's engagement came flooding into my head. I did what I could to congratulate her, though I'm sure it came off as rushed and awkward. They have had a peculiar relationship from what I can tell. God puts together strange pairs indeed.
She chuckles and shakes her head.
So, off we went to Pax Praetoria for a nightcap. Behold, Laerise had decided to make an early morning of it. We discussed the return of Karvash to the defensive fold. She wasn't as enthused as I. Of course, Lianne and Saint was brought up. When Aldrith arrived, she couldn't help but make a comment to sour the air. Once again I tried to divert her attentions to other things, asking about her 'wife' and her own ability to sleep.
After a few stunned glances from Aldrith and I, she continued...
My first reaction was total shock that she would ask such a thing, then a great sadness took ahold of me. I simply said back that it was a little too soon for that kind of talk. Laerise responded with something I didn't quite register other than her calling Aldrith and I 'commoners.' All I could do was grunt and attempt to cover my inability to react by taking a drink of my wine. After an uncomfortable silence by all parties, Aldrith spoke up.
My God, what was this? Some kind of sick joke? Something to spark Laerise's rage? A proposal? I sputtered back with something in the affirmative, unsure if I was becoming party to Aldrith's ill conceived joke or committing myself to him forever. I shot up out of my seat, draining the last of my wine and went to refill it, which I did, then I drained that. I didn't notice Laerise had followed me until she touched my arm.
My head shook slowly, partially in response to her and partially in disbelief he would put me in such a position with my fellow Captain. A look of realization that he may of just proposed crossed her face and she covered her mouth in shock.
I just wanted to get back to my seat as I felt my legs giving way.
His words took my legs from beneath me, sending my drink spilling over the floor. It was horrible. I was furious, mortified, my look willing him to cease. My head spun around to meet Laerise's gaze questioning me if what he said was true.
With that I was broken. I remember Aldrith laughing and Laerise yelling at him. All I could think of was to flee. This I did in the most graceful way I could muster.
I fled back to my suite, praying it was all some kind of nightmare. Sitting on the couch I wept and waited to wake, but I never did.
After some time, he quietly returned, taking a seat a safe distance away. When I could compose myself to speak, I asked him...
"What in God's name were you thinking?"
"I suppose I wasn't."
"Do you know what the worst part of it is? The worst is that for just a moment I thought you were serious. God knows I don't expect that, Aldrith. But for a fleeting moment... I wanted to believe you would."
"That is why you are angry?"
"I don't know what to think. No. But that's why I'm hurt. That you would joke about something like that. Especially with Anne and now Shalee... I'm angry because you embarrassed me... us... in front of my fellow officer, my senior."
"What, you do not think I have been pondering proposing this entire time anyway?"
"No. Why would you?"
"That woman deserves no respect... you are of equal rank, how dare she take these constant shots at you? At me, fine, but I saw the hurt in your eyes."
"Yes. I cannot stand it when she starts on you."
My anger started to subside as the truth of his words rung true. I have fought to ignore Laerise's slights towards him, and indirectly, towards me.
"I have no idea... I can only think it was by my actions. God curse my lack of social graces."
"No, it was not your fault. And if that woman were at all reasonable we would have simply been able to tell her."
"Yes, yes, this is true. But Aldrith, tonight, it was too much, too much..."
"I did not think... all she was doing was rubbing it in our faces, trying to make us feel ashamed. I refuse to feel shame for her."
"As we shouldn't. Her perspective is... different. I'm sure the behaviors of the Holders are as foreign to us as we are to them."
"I know Holders! I lived with them for half of my life! Being a Holder does not excuse one from being a decent human being!"
"You would know better than I.... From us I am the least."
"What? How can you say that?"
"Come now, Aldrith. I am the Ni-Kunni daughter of an Amarrian Naval officer. You were in Court. And Laerise, well... I am what she says, a commoner, and nothing can change that. Even if I outrank her, she will always hold more social power than I ever will. Even if I had it, I wouldn't know how to use it."
And I didn't care either. I know my place. It may not be where I wish, and I may feel ashamed to come from such low stock, but it is my place. This man, who I was furious with, lifts me up...
How could I not but smile at such a loving accolade? I looked at him, praising God in my mind that he was here, that I was not alone, and that I loved him dearly.
Our conversation drifted from what was said between them after I had left, the about us, and finally what our future may hold. Neither of us can foresee that, but for now we are content, happy. The evening closes with my loves sense of humor again. This time, I could appreciate it.
He took me by the hand, leading me to the bedroom.
"What, I should hope I will at least get the privilege of keeping your bed warm whilst you sleep. These Caldari keep their stations notoriously cold..."
"Mmmhmm... quite cold."
"I assure you, my intentions are quite honorable, milady... Besides... you are sleeping for three now!"
He deserved the welt my pinch left.
I was in the Basilica, sitting at the waters edge, my thoughts wandering between the war, Aldrith, and the wedding date that had just been set by my sister.
"Because I'm going to marry Raphael."
A simple statement she made to Chancellor Karvash as they walked passed, and all the feelings of initially hearing of my sister's engagement came flooding into my head. I did what I could to congratulate her, though I'm sure it came off as rushed and awkward. They have had a peculiar relationship from what I can tell. God puts together strange pairs indeed.
She chuckles and shakes her head.
So, off we went to Pax Praetoria for a nightcap. Behold, Laerise had decided to make an early morning of it. We discussed the return of Karvash to the defensive fold. She wasn't as enthused as I. Of course, Lianne and Saint was brought up. When Aldrith arrived, she couldn't help but make a comment to sour the air. Once again I tried to divert her attentions to other things, asking about her 'wife' and her own ability to sleep.
"Come now, what about you and.. Aldrith, who would have thought."
After a few stunned glances from Aldrith and I, she continued...
"Tch, do you really think I did not know, about you two? Oh come on, I might not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but... I hope he's at least been enough of a gentleman to propose to you, Mitara."
My first reaction was total shock that she would ask such a thing, then a great sadness took ahold of me. I simply said back that it was a little too soon for that kind of talk. Laerise responded with something I didn't quite register other than her calling Aldrith and I 'commoners.' All I could do was grunt and attempt to cover my inability to react by taking a drink of my wine. After an uncomfortable silence by all parties, Aldrith spoke up.
"Fine, Captain if you really must know, we are going to get married as well. We have been keeping it quiet for now so as to not overshadow Raphael and Shalee's engagement. Right, Mitara?"
My God, what was this? Some kind of sick joke? Something to spark Laerise's rage? A proposal? I sputtered back with something in the affirmative, unsure if I was becoming party to Aldrith's ill conceived joke or committing myself to him forever. I shot up out of my seat, draining the last of my wine and went to refill it, which I did, then I drained that. I didn't notice Laerise had followed me until she touched my arm.
"Is he always this horrid to you? I can't believe it."
My head shook slowly, partially in response to her and partially in disbelief he would put me in such a position with my fellow Captain. A look of realization that he may of just proposed crossed her face and she covered her mouth in shock.
"Oh no. He did not just..?"
I just wanted to get back to my seat as I felt my legs giving way.
"And she's pregnant!"
His words took my legs from beneath me, sending my drink spilling over the floor. It was horrible. I was furious, mortified, my look willing him to cease. My head spun around to meet Laerise's gaze questioning me if what he said was true.
"With twins!"
With that I was broken. I remember Aldrith laughing and Laerise yelling at him. All I could think of was to flee. This I did in the most graceful way I could muster.
I fled back to my suite, praying it was all some kind of nightmare. Sitting on the couch I wept and waited to wake, but I never did.
After some time, he quietly returned, taking a seat a safe distance away. When I could compose myself to speak, I asked him...
"Do you think that was funny?"
"Now? Of course not."
"What in God's name were you thinking?"
"I suppose I wasn't."
"Do you know what the worst part of it is? The worst is that for just a moment I thought you were serious. God knows I don't expect that, Aldrith. But for a fleeting moment... I wanted to believe you would."
"That is why you are angry?"
"I don't know what to think. No. But that's why I'm hurt. That you would joke about something like that. Especially with Anne and now Shalee... I'm angry because you embarrassed me... us... in front of my fellow officer, my senior."
"What, you do not think I have been pondering proposing this entire time anyway?"
"No. Why would you?"
"That woman deserves no respect... you are of equal rank, how dare she take these constant shots at you? At me, fine, but I saw the hurt in your eyes."
"Yes. I cannot stand it when she starts on you."
My anger started to subside as the truth of his words rung true. I have fought to ignore Laerise's slights towards him, and indirectly, towards me.
"How did she find out?"
"I have no idea... I can only think it was by my actions. God curse my lack of social graces."
"No, it was not your fault. And if that woman were at all reasonable we would have simply been able to tell her."
"Yes, yes, this is true. But Aldrith, tonight, it was too much, too much..."
"I did not think... all she was doing was rubbing it in our faces, trying to make us feel ashamed. I refuse to feel shame for her."
"As we shouldn't. Her perspective is... different. I'm sure the behaviors of the Holders are as foreign to us as we are to them."
"I know Holders! I lived with them for half of my life! Being a Holder does not excuse one from being a decent human being!"
"You would know better than I.... From us I am the least."
"What? How can you say that?"
"Come now, Aldrith. I am the Ni-Kunni daughter of an Amarrian Naval officer. You were in Court. And Laerise, well... I am what she says, a commoner, and nothing can change that. Even if I outrank her, she will always hold more social power than I ever will. Even if I had it, I wouldn't know how to use it."
And I didn't care either. I know my place. It may not be where I wish, and I may feel ashamed to come from such low stock, but it is my place. This man, who I was furious with, lifts me up...
"Listen to me. You are a hundred times my better, and a thousand times Laerise's better. Never let anyone tell you otherwise. Station... rank... they mean nothing in the eyes of God. He can only smile upon an angel like you."
How could I not but smile at such a loving accolade? I looked at him, praising God in my mind that he was here, that I was not alone, and that I loved him dearly.
Our conversation drifted from what was said between them after I had left, the about us, and finally what our future may hold. Neither of us can foresee that, but for now we are content, happy. The evening closes with my loves sense of humor again. This time, I could appreciate it.
"I know that this whole encounter has left me exhausted. That's about it."
He took me by the hand, leading me to the bedroom.
"Oh, you think so? After what you pulled?"
"What, I should hope I will at least get the privilege of keeping your bed warm whilst you sleep. These Caldari keep their stations notoriously cold..."
"Mmmhmm... quite cold."
"I assure you, my intentions are quite honorable, milady... Besides... you are sleeping for three now!"
He deserved the welt my pinch left.
2009-10-08
Happiness Is...
The starlight pouring through the oversized viewport illuminates the room in a soft light. Faint traditional Amarrian choir music can be heard, seeming to come from all around. Mitara sits in the usual plush chair located in her study. She is wrapped haphazardly in a thick white bathrobe, her hair looking somewhat disheveled. She smiles widely into the camera, chuckling softly.
Oh, where to start with this after so long... A verse I think.
"Surround yourself with the faithful, stand together, for there is no strength like it under the heavens"
That passage has never meant more to me than it does right now. My junior officers grow in skill and determination everyday. The precision at which they execute their patrols becomes more and more impressive. I am so proud of them all. My blessings are so many concerning my corpmates, I cannot begin to count them.
She shakes her head and chuckles louder. As if remembering something, she partially covers her mouth and quiets her laugh.
We are not without our problems and conflict, but they pale compared to what God and Her Majesty has called us to accomplish, and what we are called to be for each other.
Her laugh ceases as she turns towards the closed door, her face softens as does her voice
...Surround yourself with the faithful... stand together... for there is no strength like it under the heavens...
She stares at the door for some time, all the while smiling widely.
There lies a man beyond, sleeping soundly on the couch.
He is beautiful, in body and soul. His heart could hold the whole of the cluster. I am blessed to hold even a small place in it.
He is my friend; my council; my inspiration; my release; my folly;
* She blurts out a chuckle and regains herself *
my wingman; my trial.
He is my love.
A gift from God.
And I will cherish him.
And honor him.
Always.
She stares off at the door a bit longer before sinking back into her chair with a contented sigh.
Oh, where to start with this after so long... A verse I think.
"Surround yourself with the faithful, stand together, for there is no strength like it under the heavens"
That passage has never meant more to me than it does right now. My junior officers grow in skill and determination everyday. The precision at which they execute their patrols becomes more and more impressive. I am so proud of them all. My blessings are so many concerning my corpmates, I cannot begin to count them.
She shakes her head and chuckles louder. As if remembering something, she partially covers her mouth and quiets her laugh.
We are not without our problems and conflict, but they pale compared to what God and Her Majesty has called us to accomplish, and what we are called to be for each other.
Her laugh ceases as she turns towards the closed door, her face softens as does her voice
...Surround yourself with the faithful... stand together... for there is no strength like it under the heavens...
She stares at the door for some time, all the while smiling widely.
There lies a man beyond, sleeping soundly on the couch.
He is beautiful, in body and soul. His heart could hold the whole of the cluster. I am blessed to hold even a small place in it.
He is my friend; my council; my inspiration; my release; my folly;
* She blurts out a chuckle and regains herself *
my wingman; my trial.
He is my love.
A gift from God.
And I will cherish him.
And honor him.
Always.
She stares off at the door a bit longer before sinking back into her chair with a contented sigh.
2009-09-13
Resurrection - Chapter 3
NOTE: This story needs to be slightly retconned to take into consideration the events of YC121.03.18 that established that Ca'lik'bar is a subsurface mining colony and not an open air mining colony.
* * *
The last few days saw more food than before. One less mouth to feed helped, even though the worry of their missing mother kept her from sleeping. Her bruised cheek, and the cut across her lip probably helped with the miners sympathy too. With the sound of the shift change siren, she takes up her old violin, her muscles still sore from the encounter days before. A piece of bread crust, and a mostly eaten peach are the things she notes getting tossed into her brothers violin case, and she manages to smile a little.
"How are you feeling?" the vaguely familiar Amarr voice asks.
Startled, she looks up and over seeing the Navy officer at the front of a detachment of Imperial Marines. Looking away in embarrassment for not thanking him, she responds, "Ok, sir. Thank you... you know? The other day...?"
He smiles softly at her and then her brother, "And who is this?"
"I'm Kaleb!" her younger brother chimes in before she has a chance to respond. The young boy looks wide eyed at the Amarr officer, "Do you fly a spaceship!?" he asks excitedly.
The officer chuckles back at the inquisitive child, "I serve aboard one, yes."
"Wow!" The boy smiles broadly, enamored.
"I'd like to hear you play, " says the officer turning his gaze back to her.
She nods, trying to avoid his eyes. She brings her carefully chosen stick up to the rusted strings and does her best to not offend her audiences ears.
The officer puts on a forced expression of approval, trying to hide his amusement behind his smile. She plays a bit more before her brother breaks her concentration.
"Mommy!" he shouts and drops the violin case, spilling it's little contents onto the ground. He runs up to her hugging at her leg. She barely notices and approaches the officer.
The mother thrusts some papers at the man, shaking them, "Take them! For God, take them!" Out of reflex the officer responds, accepting the papers. She drops to the ground in front of him, grasping at his boot, kissing the toe of it, "Thank you, m'Lord!. By all that is Holy, thank you! They will serve you well."
The lump in the daughters throat prevents her from speaking, her body paralyzed at the implication.
The mother stands, pushing down the young boy who is still chanting, "Mommy! Mommy!" She turns away without looking at either of the children, running off into the cross traffic of arriving and leaving workers. Her wild, unwashed hair is the last they will ever see of her.
"Umm..." The Naval officer is the first to be able to respond, and he quickly glances over the papers he realizes he now holds. "Sergeant, take them" he calls out flatly.
The marines move swiftly, one grabbing the now crying boy off the ground, another scooping up the girl. She blinks in a daze and loses grip of the violin which falls to the ground, the aged cheap wood shattering into pieces. The troop quickly moves out towards the center of the city.
*
She stands with her younger brother at her side, the Naval officer behind them. She looks at the Amarr behind the counter as he finishes reading the papers their mother had thrust upon the officer.
"Yes, this is all in order. She has relinquished any claim to them. Do you have the registration forms for your new slaves?"
The officer hands him a data tablet. The clerk begins reading it, and almost immediately looks back up at the Navy man. "Sir, but this is..."
"I know." assures the officer in a commanding voice.
The clerk looks at the two children in front of him. He shrugs and continues reading partially out loud, "... Ni-Kunni female... age nine ... height, weight appear accurate..." He looks at the officer, "Name?"
The officer looks down at the girl, smiling, "Go ahead, tell him your name."
The girl looks up at the officer a moment then at the clerk. She says softly, "Mitara Cobestes"
"Mitara..." the clerk repeats back as he keys the datapad. He scrolls and reads more, ".. Ni-Kunni male... age 5... ok.." Knowing now what the response from the officer will be, this time he looks at the boy for the response, "Name?"
"Kaleb, sir"
"Kaleb..." more keying into the datapad followed by a press of a thumb. The clerk hands the datapad back to the Navy officer, "There you are sir, all set."
The Navy man places a hand on either of the siblings shoulders and turns them to walk. As they walk he looks down at the girl, she looks back up at him. "Mitara Newelle. You are Mitara Newelle now. Understand?"
She nods to him, even though she doesn't.
* * *
Mitara leans her back against the outer wall of the mineshaft and slowly slides down until she is sitting. She pulls her knees up against her chest, wrapping her arms around her legs. Her eyes close and her head lowers to rest against the top of her knees.
Emotion crashes down on her.
She sobs.
* * *
Kaleb lays curled on the bench of the transport, asleep. The young Ni-Kunni girl sits next to the Naval officer, unable to comprehend the happenings of the last several hours. The silence weighs down on her, and the fear of this unknown future scares her to her core. She tries not make any sounds as she can't help but cry. The Navy officer notices anyway.
Mitara sits straight up, sucking in a breath. Her heart races and her body trembles. She looks all around her. She is alone. What was once day has become night. There is a soft glow provided by the starlight.
A fresh stream of tears begin to fall, now tears of joy. She lifts her head to the stars, a smile slowly forms.
"Thank you."
END
* * *
The last few days saw more food than before. One less mouth to feed helped, even though the worry of their missing mother kept her from sleeping. Her bruised cheek, and the cut across her lip probably helped with the miners sympathy too. With the sound of the shift change siren, she takes up her old violin, her muscles still sore from the encounter days before. A piece of bread crust, and a mostly eaten peach are the things she notes getting tossed into her brothers violin case, and she manages to smile a little.
"How are you feeling?" the vaguely familiar Amarr voice asks.
Startled, she looks up and over seeing the Navy officer at the front of a detachment of Imperial Marines. Looking away in embarrassment for not thanking him, she responds, "Ok, sir. Thank you... you know? The other day...?"
He smiles softly at her and then her brother, "And who is this?"
"I'm Kaleb!" her younger brother chimes in before she has a chance to respond. The young boy looks wide eyed at the Amarr officer, "Do you fly a spaceship!?" he asks excitedly.
The officer chuckles back at the inquisitive child, "I serve aboard one, yes."
"Wow!" The boy smiles broadly, enamored.
"I'd like to hear you play, " says the officer turning his gaze back to her.
She nods, trying to avoid his eyes. She brings her carefully chosen stick up to the rusted strings and does her best to not offend her audiences ears.
The officer puts on a forced expression of approval, trying to hide his amusement behind his smile. She plays a bit more before her brother breaks her concentration.
"Mommy!" he shouts and drops the violin case, spilling it's little contents onto the ground. He runs up to her hugging at her leg. She barely notices and approaches the officer.
The mother thrusts some papers at the man, shaking them, "Take them! For God, take them!" Out of reflex the officer responds, accepting the papers. She drops to the ground in front of him, grasping at his boot, kissing the toe of it, "Thank you, m'Lord!. By all that is Holy, thank you! They will serve you well."
The lump in the daughters throat prevents her from speaking, her body paralyzed at the implication.
The mother stands, pushing down the young boy who is still chanting, "Mommy! Mommy!" She turns away without looking at either of the children, running off into the cross traffic of arriving and leaving workers. Her wild, unwashed hair is the last they will ever see of her.
"Umm..." The Naval officer is the first to be able to respond, and he quickly glances over the papers he realizes he now holds. "Sergeant, take them" he calls out flatly.
The marines move swiftly, one grabbing the now crying boy off the ground, another scooping up the girl. She blinks in a daze and loses grip of the violin which falls to the ground, the aged cheap wood shattering into pieces. The troop quickly moves out towards the center of the city.
*
She stands with her younger brother at her side, the Naval officer behind them. She looks at the Amarr behind the counter as he finishes reading the papers their mother had thrust upon the officer.
"Yes, this is all in order. She has relinquished any claim to them. Do you have the registration forms for your new slaves?"
The officer hands him a data tablet. The clerk begins reading it, and almost immediately looks back up at the Navy man. "Sir, but this is..."
"I know." assures the officer in a commanding voice.
The clerk looks at the two children in front of him. He shrugs and continues reading partially out loud, "... Ni-Kunni female... age nine ... height, weight appear accurate..." He looks at the officer, "Name?"
The officer looks down at the girl, smiling, "Go ahead, tell him your name."
The girl looks up at the officer a moment then at the clerk. She says softly, "Mitara Cobestes"
"Mitara..." the clerk repeats back as he keys the datapad. He scrolls and reads more, ".. Ni-Kunni male... age 5... ok.." Knowing now what the response from the officer will be, this time he looks at the boy for the response, "Name?"
"Kaleb, sir"
"Kaleb..." more keying into the datapad followed by a press of a thumb. The clerk hands the datapad back to the Navy officer, "There you are sir, all set."
The Navy man places a hand on either of the siblings shoulders and turns them to walk. As they walk he looks down at the girl, she looks back up at him. "Mitara Newelle. You are Mitara Newelle now. Understand?"
She nods to him, even though she doesn't.
* * *
Mitara leans her back against the outer wall of the mineshaft and slowly slides down until she is sitting. She pulls her knees up against her chest, wrapping her arms around her legs. Her eyes close and her head lowers to rest against the top of her knees.
Emotion crashes down on her.
She sobs.
* * *
Kaleb lays curled on the bench of the transport, asleep. The young Ni-Kunni girl sits next to the Naval officer, unable to comprehend the happenings of the last several hours. The silence weighs down on her, and the fear of this unknown future scares her to her core. She tries not make any sounds as she can't help but cry. The Navy officer notices anyway.
| "Why do you cry?" asks the officer in a kind voice. | "Why do you cry?" asks a voice. | |
| "It has been so hard. I have done some bad things." the short life of the young girl plays itself back in her mind. All the worry and anguish of simply trying to survive. Visions of the places and the people from which she stole roll through her thoughts. | "It has been so hard. I have done some horrid things." the Captain thinks of the constant patrols and battles, all her duties to PIE and to the Empire. She sees the faces of her fellow pilots prominently: Shalee, Raphael, Zenton, Laerise, Aldrith; others fade quickly. Deep within her she knows she has wronged them all. | |
| "Are you not also blessed?" the Amarr next to her says, gently placing his hand atop her head. | "Are you not also blessed?" the voice asks, the hair on her neck stands on end. | |
| She had been bathed, fed, and given new cloths. Her wounds had been attended to by a physician. She was not separated from her brother. "Yes, I am blessed." | She was nearly immortal. She was Captain in the venerated Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris. Rich beyond most commoners dreams. She had a family that cared for her. She had felt the elation of giving her heart away to another. "Yes, I am blessed." | |
| The young girl looks up at the Amarr officer, "Who are you?" | The woman begins to look up, "Who are you?" | |
| "I am your father, now." replies the man next to her. | "I am your Father, always." the voice fills her head. |
Mitara sits straight up, sucking in a breath. Her heart races and her body trembles. She looks all around her. She is alone. What was once day has become night. There is a soft glow provided by the starlight.
A fresh stream of tears begin to fall, now tears of joy. She lifts her head to the stars, a smile slowly forms.
"Thank you."
END
Resurrection - Chapter 2
NOTE: This story needs to be slightly retconned to take into consideration the events of YC121.03.18 that established that Ca'lik'bar is a subsurface mining colony and not an open air mining colony.
The broken plastic lid skids to a stop, bumping into a pile of broken glass in the dimly lit alley.
“I win!” cheers the excited Ni-Kunni boy.
“Yes, you win. Now go back home and I'll be there in a while,” replies his thin... too thin, sister.
He scuttles off whence they came, giving his makeshift ball an occasional kick as he weaves between the junk and other debris littering the alley. She watches him as long as she can. Normally she would let him win, just to see his excitement. But not today. Her body ached so bad, her joints grinding like broken gears. She was certain the pain in her stomach meant that her body had begun to feed upon itself. It had been days since she allowed herself even the smallest bit of food. She made sure Kaleb got as much as she could, rationing only a tiny bit for what had once been their mother. “You git on home now before it gets too dark!” Her shout is weak and hoarse. She's not sure if her blurred vision is the reason she finally loses sight of him, or that he has rounded some corner, either way she must now focus on her task.
It had only been two weeks since they had cut back shaft R-37 to two shifts, and already there had been a few near riots that had quickly been dispersed by ever increasing Imperial patrols. They had suffered worse than she thought they might. There were more people vying for the attention of the remaining workers for starters, and what she was able to get from them was less and less as the miners started to horde what they could in anticipation of the shaft being shut down entirely. She was so tired. All she wanted was to sleep, yet she plodded on. The occasional functioning alley light helped guide her towards the center of the city. Usually a better chance to find something she could use would be had there.
“I could give you something. That is, if you have something to give me?” The Khanid accent was thick. The twenty-something man stepped down off what must have been some kind of loading dock. His dirty white shirt was not worn, or ripped at all. “I've seen you come by this way before. You need something to eat?”
She nods back to him, “I would make music for you, but...” she lifts her heavy arm, pointing far down the alley.
“S'ok, we can figure something else out.” he says as he pulls a low crate aside and sits on it. He reaches into one of the over sized leg pockets that adorn his pants and pulls out a packet of dried rations, something the miners are given when they go very deep below the surface. “I've got this for you.”
“But I don't have nothing to... “ she finds the words so hard to say, knowing the weeks worth of meals is beyond her. Her head droops and her lips involuntarily pout.
“You can dance, right?” the Khanid leans forward resting his elbows on his knees, “Let me see you dance, pretty thing.”
She bobs her head in agreement and begins swaying from side to side, trying with all her might to move her arms in a graceful motion. Tears begin to well up as she hears the sounds of his laughter.
“Ha ha! No, you silly girl, not like that!” He jumps up from his seat and moves behind her, half leaning over her, his sweaty face above her head. “I want you to do it like this.” Her puppeteer begins moving his hips against her back and she sways with him in return. She closes her eyes, focusing on the pain in her belly.. “Yeah like that, now you're getting it.” He reaches over the top of her, taking hold of her wrists. She lays her head to the side praying for sleep to take her. He guides her hands up and down her preteen body, “That's good, very good.” Tears roll down the side of her face.
“Mother and Kaleb need you” she tells herself.
* * *
“You don't like my song!” cries the young girl standing in front of her.
Mitara feels her wet cheeks and shakes her head at the distraught child. “No, no, you did fine.” She kneels down, “You did wonderfully” displaying the coin in her hand, she holds it out. Both Ni-Kunni, adult and child, smile at each other with water streaked faces.
The young child snatches the coin and runs down the street, “Thank you, thank you!”
Mitara remains kneeling a moment, watching the girl down the street turn up a flight of stairs into what passes as an apartment building. She then looks down at the rough sidewalk where a couple of tears have dropped from her face and splattered.
* * *
She falls forward, limp, as he tries to work his hand under her tattered dress.
“Don't you know anything!?” the Khanid yells at her.
Her face scrapes against the dirty concrete of the alleyway and she rolls to her side as the force of his kick connects to her lower back. Her body responds with a yelp and begins heaving with sobs. She blinks a couple times looking at the few drops of blood smeared on the pavement inches away from her mouth. A couple of his footsteps are heard before the flash of white and the sharp sting on the side of her face that immediately begins to throb.
“Now we have to start over!” He grabs her by the armpit and attempts to hoist her up, her body refuses to help and he loses his grip, “Damnit, get up!” The soft thud of his fist hitting the backside of her shoulder is easily drowned out by the cry she emits.
“Please please please” She sputters between gasping sobs.
He hovers over her and spits to the side, “You want what I got, I know you do! Now get up!” His body freezes has he begins to bend down.
“Stop!”
The voice is confident and authoritative. The sounds of many men running grow louder as the sound of his retreat grows softer. She closes her eyes and begins to tremble as the sounds become a roar closing in on her. Even as they pass, she is too terrified to move.
“Come now, it's ok, it's ok.” It's the same voice as before, now soft, gentle.
She recoils, balling up in a fetal position at the light touch.
“It's ok, I'm not going to hurt you. Come on now.”
His hands and arms are strong. They pick her up and carry her to the nearby dock, gently he sets her at it's edge, sitting her up. She opens her eyes and sees a look of concern on the Amarrians face.
“We'll have to have that tended to. Can you tell me your name?”
She stares blankly at the Imperial Navy insignia on his uniform.
“I know you are scared, but I can help you. If...”
His head quirks away listening to something only he can hear, then back in a commanding voice says to nobody she can see, “Yes, thank you, Marine.”
His voice softens, “You're ok now. I'm going to help you. I'll be right back.”
She doesn't turn her head to watch him follow the way the rest went, she just sits looking forward.
“Mother and Kaleb” she says out loud.
She slides off the dock and her body wracks with pain as she lands. She whimpers as she tries to move with haste, grabbing the ration packet and starting towards home.
Her lungs are on fire and her muscles scream at her to stop as she nears the back of the apartment building. The sounds of Kaleb crying drives her to get there faster still even as her body rebels again her.
“Where is Mother?” she pants out.
“I don't know” wails her brother.
The broken plastic lid skids to a stop, bumping into a pile of broken glass in the dimly lit alley.
“I win!” cheers the excited Ni-Kunni boy.
“Yes, you win. Now go back home and I'll be there in a while,” replies his thin... too thin, sister.
He scuttles off whence they came, giving his makeshift ball an occasional kick as he weaves between the junk and other debris littering the alley. She watches him as long as she can. Normally she would let him win, just to see his excitement. But not today. Her body ached so bad, her joints grinding like broken gears. She was certain the pain in her stomach meant that her body had begun to feed upon itself. It had been days since she allowed herself even the smallest bit of food. She made sure Kaleb got as much as she could, rationing only a tiny bit for what had once been their mother. “You git on home now before it gets too dark!” Her shout is weak and hoarse. She's not sure if her blurred vision is the reason she finally loses sight of him, or that he has rounded some corner, either way she must now focus on her task.
It had only been two weeks since they had cut back shaft R-37 to two shifts, and already there had been a few near riots that had quickly been dispersed by ever increasing Imperial patrols. They had suffered worse than she thought they might. There were more people vying for the attention of the remaining workers for starters, and what she was able to get from them was less and less as the miners started to horde what they could in anticipation of the shaft being shut down entirely. She was so tired. All she wanted was to sleep, yet she plodded on. The occasional functioning alley light helped guide her towards the center of the city. Usually a better chance to find something she could use would be had there.
“I could give you something. That is, if you have something to give me?” The Khanid accent was thick. The twenty-something man stepped down off what must have been some kind of loading dock. His dirty white shirt was not worn, or ripped at all. “I've seen you come by this way before. You need something to eat?”
She nods back to him, “I would make music for you, but...” she lifts her heavy arm, pointing far down the alley.
“S'ok, we can figure something else out.” he says as he pulls a low crate aside and sits on it. He reaches into one of the over sized leg pockets that adorn his pants and pulls out a packet of dried rations, something the miners are given when they go very deep below the surface. “I've got this for you.”
“But I don't have nothing to... “ she finds the words so hard to say, knowing the weeks worth of meals is beyond her. Her head droops and her lips involuntarily pout.
“You can dance, right?” the Khanid leans forward resting his elbows on his knees, “Let me see you dance, pretty thing.”
She bobs her head in agreement and begins swaying from side to side, trying with all her might to move her arms in a graceful motion. Tears begin to well up as she hears the sounds of his laughter.
“Ha ha! No, you silly girl, not like that!” He jumps up from his seat and moves behind her, half leaning over her, his sweaty face above her head. “I want you to do it like this.” Her puppeteer begins moving his hips against her back and she sways with him in return. She closes her eyes, focusing on the pain in her belly.. “Yeah like that, now you're getting it.” He reaches over the top of her, taking hold of her wrists. She lays her head to the side praying for sleep to take her. He guides her hands up and down her preteen body, “That's good, very good.” Tears roll down the side of her face.
“Mother and Kaleb need you” she tells herself.
* * *
“You don't like my song!” cries the young girl standing in front of her.
Mitara feels her wet cheeks and shakes her head at the distraught child. “No, no, you did fine.” She kneels down, “You did wonderfully” displaying the coin in her hand, she holds it out. Both Ni-Kunni, adult and child, smile at each other with water streaked faces.
The young child snatches the coin and runs down the street, “Thank you, thank you!”
Mitara remains kneeling a moment, watching the girl down the street turn up a flight of stairs into what passes as an apartment building. She then looks down at the rough sidewalk where a couple of tears have dropped from her face and splattered.
* * *
She falls forward, limp, as he tries to work his hand under her tattered dress.
“Don't you know anything!?” the Khanid yells at her.
Her face scrapes against the dirty concrete of the alleyway and she rolls to her side as the force of his kick connects to her lower back. Her body responds with a yelp and begins heaving with sobs. She blinks a couple times looking at the few drops of blood smeared on the pavement inches away from her mouth. A couple of his footsteps are heard before the flash of white and the sharp sting on the side of her face that immediately begins to throb.
“Now we have to start over!” He grabs her by the armpit and attempts to hoist her up, her body refuses to help and he loses his grip, “Damnit, get up!” The soft thud of his fist hitting the backside of her shoulder is easily drowned out by the cry she emits.
“Please please please” She sputters between gasping sobs.
He hovers over her and spits to the side, “You want what I got, I know you do! Now get up!” His body freezes has he begins to bend down.
“Stop!”
The voice is confident and authoritative. The sounds of many men running grow louder as the sound of his retreat grows softer. She closes her eyes and begins to tremble as the sounds become a roar closing in on her. Even as they pass, she is too terrified to move.
“Come now, it's ok, it's ok.” It's the same voice as before, now soft, gentle.
She recoils, balling up in a fetal position at the light touch.
“It's ok, I'm not going to hurt you. Come on now.”
His hands and arms are strong. They pick her up and carry her to the nearby dock, gently he sets her at it's edge, sitting her up. She opens her eyes and sees a look of concern on the Amarrians face.
“We'll have to have that tended to. Can you tell me your name?”
She stares blankly at the Imperial Navy insignia on his uniform.
“I know you are scared, but I can help you. If...”
His head quirks away listening to something only he can hear, then back in a commanding voice says to nobody she can see, “Yes, thank you, Marine.”
His voice softens, “You're ok now. I'm going to help you. I'll be right back.”
She doesn't turn her head to watch him follow the way the rest went, she just sits looking forward.
“Mother and Kaleb” she says out loud.
She slides off the dock and her body wracks with pain as she lands. She whimpers as she tries to move with haste, grabbing the ration packet and starting towards home.
Her lungs are on fire and her muscles scream at her to stop as she nears the back of the apartment building. The sounds of Kaleb crying drives her to get there faster still even as her body rebels again her.
“Where is Mother?” she pants out.
“I don't know” wails her brother.
2009-09-11
Resurrection - Chapter 1
NOTE: This story needs to be slightly retconned to take into consideration the events of YC121.03.18 that established that Ca'lik'bar is a subsurface mining colony and not an open air mining colony.
The Imperial Spaceport is an immaculate, gold and white structure, dwarfing all other buildings in the city of Ca'lik'bar on Anath II, Aridia. It is a conduit for ores and minerals extracted from below the surface of this nondescript planet to reach the greater Empire of which it belongs. The businessmen, Imperial Regulators, and Imperial Navy personnel that keep it all running also travel it's corridors. It is a shining beacon surrounded by the squalor that is the city.
Ca'lik'bar is home to mostly Ni-Kunni and Khanid miner families and to those that offer their services to them. There is little happiness there. Those families that are lucky enough to work the mines worry when their employment will be terminated, as the cheaper to operate and more efficient asteroid mining ships continue to increase in numbers. Those without, do what they can to survive. Cooking, cleaning, entertaining, begging, and even less dignified activities all are offered to the Elite of Ca'lik'bar, and to even the lowest mine worker.
Mitara Newelle, capsuleer, Captain of Preatoria Imperialis Excubitoris, waits in line to exit the Imperial Spaceport and enter the place of her birth, which she has not set foot in for over 20 years. Those next to her regard her with disdain at her less than tailored cloths, and disheveled look. She plays the part, keeping her head down, not looking any of them in the eye. Finally the guard scans her id badge. He gives her a puzzled look and opens his mouth to ask something. The glare that she gives him steals his voice, and he simply waves her though.
The assault on her senses as she steps out of the spaceport and into the huge expanse of the cities' market plaza is overbearing. The aroma of hundreds of types food, animals, and the sweat of the thousands of vendors and their patrons make her gag. She tries to block out the droning buzz of activity all around her as she moves her way through the plaza to one of the main artery streets that eventually lead to mineshaft R-37. Along the way a Khanid boy leaps in front of her offering some type soup. She smells it, fights back the urge to vomit, and pushes past the boy. As she starts down one of the many wide streetways, she stops to watch a troop of teenage Ni-Kunni perform a synchronized dance. The few people assembled watch with subtle amusement, cheering once in a while at some feat of acrobatics. After a few moments she continues on down the street.
It is less crowded now, and the smell isn't as horrible, but there are still the occasional civilians looking to earn their next meal. She walks for some time and the bustle of business gives way to the calmer and quieter atmosphere of the residential districts. She muses at the size and condition of the apartments. The amount she spends in broker fees in a month on the interstellar market could refurbish the buildings 10 times over. It isn't until she feels something tugging at her sleeve does she realize how far she has gone, and into the slums at the outskirts of the city. The sight of her childhood neighborhood stops her cold.
“Lady, some change for a song?”
Even with Mitara's low class disguise, the young Ni-Kunni girl sees someone of greater wealth than she.
Mitara looks at the child - dirty, malnourished, uneducated. “What song will you sing for me, young one?”
“I don't know the name. My mommy taught it to me. It's really old so I don't know what the words mean, but Mommy says it is about how God will provide to the faithful.”
“Very well.” Mitara produces a coin from her worn overcoat and shows it to the child, then crosses her arms expecting that services be rendered first. The girl smiles awkwardly and begins singing in undecipherable words, that may at one time have been of the oldest of language in the Scriptures, but after generations of being passed down have become nothing but nonsense. Mitara listens for a time before her mind starts to wander ever back, back to her life before being a Newelle.
***
The two siblings stood at the entrance of mine shaft R-37. The boy several years younger than the girl, barely able to hold the worn and beaten violin case. The girl held the instrument like she had seen in a picture, running a stick across the dirty and rusted strings. It had been about a year since the two discovered the treasure while scavenging through the dumpsters of an apartment building on the other side of the city. In that time she had learned a few ways to coax the thing into producing some tones that did not make ones teeth hurt. Every day, at every shift change, they would come in hopes one of the miners would toss something, anything – a coin, a piece of bread, something; into their case. If they were lucky enough, they would bring the booty to their mother, who would wait emotionless under the back alley rear stairs of a run down apartment building. Her heart and ability to provide for her children were broken several years prior, when her mate left off world as a slave. While his needs would be met, even if it was in a life time of service to another, they would have to fend for themselves. The betrayal, hurt, and fear were too much, and her mind left her.
“Look mother! Cheese! And a candy!” The young girl exclaimed as she and her brother ran to what they called home. Their mother greeted them with a blank stare. “Kaleb, divide this while I get us some water.” She takes a couple old metal cups and goes to the rail well at the corner of the building, dunking them into the barrel. Upon returning her younger brother has torn the cheese into four parts. “You take two, mother and I will have one, you need it to grow.” The daughter puts a single bit of the meal to her mothers lips, which instinctively take it. The bit of cheese is followed by a drink of water from the misshapen cup, again the mouth muscles react on their own. The two children quickly devour their scraps in silence.
“Can I go first?” Kaleb asks, as he smiles an unusually perfect smile for one of his class. His sister responds with a smile of her own, “Yes, but don't take too long.” The boy quickly picks up the piece of candy and plunks in his mouth, careful not to bite down on it. “Now me!” she says to him after a several seconds. Her brother takes the candy out of his mouth and hands it to his sister. She raises it to her full Ni-Kunni lips, eager to taste it's sweetness. They both start to giggle with glee as they take turns sucking on their deserved pay.
The Imperial Spaceport is an immaculate, gold and white structure, dwarfing all other buildings in the city of Ca'lik'bar on Anath II, Aridia. It is a conduit for ores and minerals extracted from below the surface of this nondescript planet to reach the greater Empire of which it belongs. The businessmen, Imperial Regulators, and Imperial Navy personnel that keep it all running also travel it's corridors. It is a shining beacon surrounded by the squalor that is the city.
Ca'lik'bar is home to mostly Ni-Kunni and Khanid miner families and to those that offer their services to them. There is little happiness there. Those families that are lucky enough to work the mines worry when their employment will be terminated, as the cheaper to operate and more efficient asteroid mining ships continue to increase in numbers. Those without, do what they can to survive. Cooking, cleaning, entertaining, begging, and even less dignified activities all are offered to the Elite of Ca'lik'bar, and to even the lowest mine worker.
Mitara Newelle, capsuleer, Captain of Preatoria Imperialis Excubitoris, waits in line to exit the Imperial Spaceport and enter the place of her birth, which she has not set foot in for over 20 years. Those next to her regard her with disdain at her less than tailored cloths, and disheveled look. She plays the part, keeping her head down, not looking any of them in the eye. Finally the guard scans her id badge. He gives her a puzzled look and opens his mouth to ask something. The glare that she gives him steals his voice, and he simply waves her though.
The assault on her senses as she steps out of the spaceport and into the huge expanse of the cities' market plaza is overbearing. The aroma of hundreds of types food, animals, and the sweat of the thousands of vendors and their patrons make her gag. She tries to block out the droning buzz of activity all around her as she moves her way through the plaza to one of the main artery streets that eventually lead to mineshaft R-37. Along the way a Khanid boy leaps in front of her offering some type soup. She smells it, fights back the urge to vomit, and pushes past the boy. As she starts down one of the many wide streetways, she stops to watch a troop of teenage Ni-Kunni perform a synchronized dance. The few people assembled watch with subtle amusement, cheering once in a while at some feat of acrobatics. After a few moments she continues on down the street.
It is less crowded now, and the smell isn't as horrible, but there are still the occasional civilians looking to earn their next meal. She walks for some time and the bustle of business gives way to the calmer and quieter atmosphere of the residential districts. She muses at the size and condition of the apartments. The amount she spends in broker fees in a month on the interstellar market could refurbish the buildings 10 times over. It isn't until she feels something tugging at her sleeve does she realize how far she has gone, and into the slums at the outskirts of the city. The sight of her childhood neighborhood stops her cold.
“Lady, some change for a song?”
Even with Mitara's low class disguise, the young Ni-Kunni girl sees someone of greater wealth than she.
Mitara looks at the child - dirty, malnourished, uneducated. “What song will you sing for me, young one?”
“I don't know the name. My mommy taught it to me. It's really old so I don't know what the words mean, but Mommy says it is about how God will provide to the faithful.”
“Very well.” Mitara produces a coin from her worn overcoat and shows it to the child, then crosses her arms expecting that services be rendered first. The girl smiles awkwardly and begins singing in undecipherable words, that may at one time have been of the oldest of language in the Scriptures, but after generations of being passed down have become nothing but nonsense. Mitara listens for a time before her mind starts to wander ever back, back to her life before being a Newelle.
***
The two siblings stood at the entrance of mine shaft R-37. The boy several years younger than the girl, barely able to hold the worn and beaten violin case. The girl held the instrument like she had seen in a picture, running a stick across the dirty and rusted strings. It had been about a year since the two discovered the treasure while scavenging through the dumpsters of an apartment building on the other side of the city. In that time she had learned a few ways to coax the thing into producing some tones that did not make ones teeth hurt. Every day, at every shift change, they would come in hopes one of the miners would toss something, anything – a coin, a piece of bread, something; into their case. If they were lucky enough, they would bring the booty to their mother, who would wait emotionless under the back alley rear stairs of a run down apartment building. Her heart and ability to provide for her children were broken several years prior, when her mate left off world as a slave. While his needs would be met, even if it was in a life time of service to another, they would have to fend for themselves. The betrayal, hurt, and fear were too much, and her mind left her.
“Look mother! Cheese! And a candy!” The young girl exclaimed as she and her brother ran to what they called home. Their mother greeted them with a blank stare. “Kaleb, divide this while I get us some water.” She takes a couple old metal cups and goes to the rail well at the corner of the building, dunking them into the barrel. Upon returning her younger brother has torn the cheese into four parts. “You take two, mother and I will have one, you need it to grow.” The daughter puts a single bit of the meal to her mothers lips, which instinctively take it. The bit of cheese is followed by a drink of water from the misshapen cup, again the mouth muscles react on their own. The two children quickly devour their scraps in silence.
“Can I go first?” Kaleb asks, as he smiles an unusually perfect smile for one of his class. His sister responds with a smile of her own, “Yes, but don't take too long.” The boy quickly picks up the piece of candy and plunks in his mouth, careful not to bite down on it. “Now me!” she says to him after a several seconds. Her brother takes the candy out of his mouth and hands it to his sister. She raises it to her full Ni-Kunni lips, eager to taste it's sweetness. They both start to giggle with glee as they take turns sucking on their deserved pay.
2009-08-25
The Application
It has been little over a week since Mr Shutaq applied to the Praetoria. I do not think I had slept more than a few hours in those early days. I had been keeping my normal patrols up, so by all appearances things were as they should be, except to perhaps Ensign Saint. Carelessly I fell asleep... or passed out, in his Pax Praetoria club. I found myself in that chair, my face resting on it's padded arm like a pillow. My empty glass and nearly empty bottle of wine were sitting on the nearby table. Ensign Saint didn't seem to make much of it. Either he's wise enough to keep any thoughts to himself, or he's just flat out stupid. Even though he's a rock breaker, I'd wager it's the former.
I followed up my interview with Mr Shutaq there, in Pax Praetoria. He agreed to the additional terms regarding the Basilica, and with that, he was cleared to submit his formal application. I do not remember if I said something to expose myself, or if it was just clearly written on my face...
"You don't want me to join, do you?"
"Your course is set, Mr Shutaq. I will not impede it. Nor can you now."
My Captain's duty forced me to say it, lest we lose a capable combat veteran whose loyalty to the Empire is without question. I tried to leave then, giving him some type of encouragement. I am sure the words sounded hollow and mechanical. Then of all things he could have spoke..
"Want a drink?"
His half smile and playful gesture towards the minibar caught me totally off guard... the Captain was gone.
For some time we where there. Mr Shutaq laid out his life's story between glasses of whiskey and wine. By the time he reached when he became a capsuleer, I'm not sure how much we had enjoyed. It was enough that we were impaired, that is certain. The anti-climatic manner in which he spoke of being a capsuleer after such a lavish and grand story prior, also caught me by surprise. The humor I found in it must have been great, because I was unable to contain my laughter.
I was sitting on the arm of his chair... that chair... doubled over trying to catch my breath. By proxy he was infected, and succumbed to hysterics. I was the first to recover, finally being able to sit upright. Towards the end of his throws of laughter, his head came to rest on my lap.
Finally, here I was at last, as I had wished to be those many weeks ago, at the Utopian Dream. I looked down into his dark eyes, a residual smile lighting up his face, and gave myself into the most basic of desires. As my lips were pressed against his, I fought back the waves of decorum and decency trying to stop me. I was successful, for a moment. In that moment, all things fell away, all things... until there was nothing left but a man and a woman, Aldrith and I, sharing the slightest spark of the Divine.
I will never be able to share that moment with him again.
His application was accepted hours later.
Ensign Shutaq.
I'm beginning to find sleep easier. Wine has been of some help in that regard. I have again given myself to my duties, though they are not coming as easily as in the past. I pray God will give me the strength to fully be their Captain again, as my station demands.
END
I followed up my interview with Mr Shutaq there, in Pax Praetoria. He agreed to the additional terms regarding the Basilica, and with that, he was cleared to submit his formal application. I do not remember if I said something to expose myself, or if it was just clearly written on my face...
"You don't want me to join, do you?"
"Your course is set, Mr Shutaq. I will not impede it. Nor can you now."
My Captain's duty forced me to say it, lest we lose a capable combat veteran whose loyalty to the Empire is without question. I tried to leave then, giving him some type of encouragement. I am sure the words sounded hollow and mechanical. Then of all things he could have spoke..
"Want a drink?"
His half smile and playful gesture towards the minibar caught me totally off guard... the Captain was gone.
For some time we where there. Mr Shutaq laid out his life's story between glasses of whiskey and wine. By the time he reached when he became a capsuleer, I'm not sure how much we had enjoyed. It was enough that we were impaired, that is certain. The anti-climatic manner in which he spoke of being a capsuleer after such a lavish and grand story prior, also caught me by surprise. The humor I found in it must have been great, because I was unable to contain my laughter.
I was sitting on the arm of his chair... that chair... doubled over trying to catch my breath. By proxy he was infected, and succumbed to hysterics. I was the first to recover, finally being able to sit upright. Towards the end of his throws of laughter, his head came to rest on my lap.
Finally, here I was at last, as I had wished to be those many weeks ago, at the Utopian Dream. I looked down into his dark eyes, a residual smile lighting up his face, and gave myself into the most basic of desires. As my lips were pressed against his, I fought back the waves of decorum and decency trying to stop me. I was successful, for a moment. In that moment, all things fell away, all things... until there was nothing left but a man and a woman, Aldrith and I, sharing the slightest spark of the Divine.
I will never be able to share that moment with him again.
His application was accepted hours later.
Ensign Shutaq.
I'm beginning to find sleep easier. Wine has been of some help in that regard. I have again given myself to my duties, though they are not coming as easily as in the past. I pray God will give me the strength to fully be their Captain again, as my station demands.
END
2009-08-06
Time
Mitara sits in her usual chair, scrolling through something on her datapad
Has it truly been a month since I last sat to record my thoughts? Where does the time go? Hmm, where to start... with corporate duties I suppose...
She folds her hands over her datapad and looks off through the portal window.
After the fall of Halmah, our military installation reporting system has become all the more important. The speed at which the Tribals took the system was frightening. My hope is that some pilots on the first shift after prayer time will take it upon themselves to do a full defensive sweep, so that we may have a better idea of how to plan the rest of the days patrols. Time will tell.
The corporate shop was launched to the excitement of some. There have been only minor tweaks to the systems that have been needed, so I am quite pleased with thus far. Commodore Piskonit was very unhappy with the amount of initial backing donated to seed the shop. The time line for price reductions and increasing the amount of stocked items will need to be stretched.
Her attention back to her datapad, giving it a few taps and scrolling through some type of list
I have very much out of touch with our roster. My time spent on systems work has made it difficult to keep much of a presence overseeing our junior officers or doing recruitment work. I have had opportunity to lead some small fleets, primary doing defensive and probing work.
She stops scrolling and raises an eyebrow toward the item displayed
LtJg Lianne... Though she still very much has a defiant streak in her, she has been a model Praetorian of late. She has been very dutiful in her patrols, and has volunteered readily for missions as they come up. The calm before the storm? I pray not.
Mitara places the datapad on the side table next to her. She shakes her head slightly and sighs
I ventured into the so called "PIE Peons Club" some of our junior officers have taken to hold up in during their down time. Apparently one of the Admirals former Arbitrator class vessels, it has been gutted and .... defaced. A little horrid shanty that I pray will never been seen by outside eyes.
A small smile forms on her lips and she again gazes out the portal window, looking lost in thought for a moment before again speaking
I invited Mr Shutaq to join me aboard the Utopian Dream for a change of scenery, and a chance to perhaps truly relax. We enjoyed some light lunch that I had prepared...
She smirks, "We both are alive to tell the tale..."
Good conversation was had as we snacked on the beach, looking out over the lake. I managed to convince Mr Shutaq to join me for a swim afterward. It was wonderful. Just two people sharing each others laughs and time. Not Captain nor Sephirot, nor thoughts of Tribal warships, nor stewardship duties. I would have liked it to last much longer. Alas, Mr Shutaq was the first to be brought back to our lives of servitude, and was called away.
I remained for a while, alone, recounting the day to help better remember it. Even doing so, the memory has already begun to erode... God's way of urging us to make new memories I imagine.
Has it truly been a month since I last sat to record my thoughts? Where does the time go? Hmm, where to start... with corporate duties I suppose...
She folds her hands over her datapad and looks off through the portal window.
After the fall of Halmah, our military installation reporting system has become all the more important. The speed at which the Tribals took the system was frightening. My hope is that some pilots on the first shift after prayer time will take it upon themselves to do a full defensive sweep, so that we may have a better idea of how to plan the rest of the days patrols. Time will tell.
The corporate shop was launched to the excitement of some. There have been only minor tweaks to the systems that have been needed, so I am quite pleased with thus far. Commodore Piskonit was very unhappy with the amount of initial backing donated to seed the shop. The time line for price reductions and increasing the amount of stocked items will need to be stretched.
Her attention back to her datapad, giving it a few taps and scrolling through some type of list
I have very much out of touch with our roster. My time spent on systems work has made it difficult to keep much of a presence overseeing our junior officers or doing recruitment work. I have had opportunity to lead some small fleets, primary doing defensive and probing work.
She stops scrolling and raises an eyebrow toward the item displayed
LtJg Lianne... Though she still very much has a defiant streak in her, she has been a model Praetorian of late. She has been very dutiful in her patrols, and has volunteered readily for missions as they come up. The calm before the storm? I pray not.
Mitara places the datapad on the side table next to her. She shakes her head slightly and sighs
I ventured into the so called "PIE Peons Club" some of our junior officers have taken to hold up in during their down time. Apparently one of the Admirals former Arbitrator class vessels, it has been gutted and .... defaced. A little horrid shanty that I pray will never been seen by outside eyes.
A small smile forms on her lips and she again gazes out the portal window, looking lost in thought for a moment before again speaking
I invited Mr Shutaq to join me aboard the Utopian Dream for a change of scenery, and a chance to perhaps truly relax. We enjoyed some light lunch that I had prepared...
She smirks, "We both are alive to tell the tale..."
Good conversation was had as we snacked on the beach, looking out over the lake. I managed to convince Mr Shutaq to join me for a swim afterward. It was wonderful. Just two people sharing each others laughs and time. Not Captain nor Sephirot, nor thoughts of Tribal warships, nor stewardship duties. I would have liked it to last much longer. Alas, Mr Shutaq was the first to be brought back to our lives of servitude, and was called away.
I remained for a while, alone, recounting the day to help better remember it. Even doing so, the memory has already begun to erode... God's way of urging us to make new memories I imagine.
2009-07-07
Hitting Stride
Mitara is busily working over two terminals that are set upon a large workstation table. The table itself is placed next to the huge portal window. Several open books sit next the terminals, as do many loose papers. She works for some time without speaking, occasionally whistling to herself. Eventually, she pauses, looking through the portal window into the void...
I have not been as faithful to these recordings as I would like, but, I have been very busy enjoying the life God has laid before me.
She smiles slightly, a content sigh passes her lips.
I have been making very good progress on the next phase of our software initiative. Commodore Piskonit may have been premature in his announcements, but I imagine he wants to generate some kind of excitement as well as to secure additional funding for the project. There are some quirks about the pod interface that are annoying, but they will be overcome in due time. We are ready for some systems tests which I'm sure will expose some errors.
Laerise had spoken to me of some inappropriate behavior of LtJg Lianne and LtSg Tyrell at Paradise. I happened to bump into Ms Lianne and Mr Karvash at the Basilica and made an offhand comment about it, not really thinking much about it honestly.
Mitara shakes her head and frowns
The poor lass went totally out of control. Since she insisted on discussing the subject, I had to oblige. It was a good opportunity to perhaps demonstrate the repercussions of her public face. She eventually summoned Mr Tyrell to refute Laerise's account, which he really didn't. I don't know if she understood what I was trying to convey to her or not, time will tell.
"LtSg Tyrell made it a point to tell me what I should and should not be involving myself with concerning my subornidates", she says sarcastically.
"I let him rant on and he left adruptly. " She smirks. "After I had left the Basilica I set him straight."
That man is going to learn his place, and I fear it is going to be quite a painful lession for him. Oh well, what must be done must be done.
A smile creeps back onto her face.
I went to Paradise last night, Mr Shutaq was there enjoying some tea. It seems the White Rose Society has filed articles of war with CONCORD against the Ordo. He was solmn about it, though he does welcome the chance to show the Sansha scum the folly of thier heretitical ways. If they engage in the warzone I may try to assist as I can.
Mitara leaves her workbench and moves to the large seating chair, lowering herself into it looking very relaxed.
We spoke for some time. It was a very pleasant conversation, mostly of family and our childhoods. I find myself so at ease with Ald... Mr Shutaq. Perhaps too much so. At some point we got on the subject of Ms Nurataki leaving the Preatoria, which in turn included talk of some of the other recent defectors. As I had tried with them all to show them they were making grave mistakes, only to have them still defect... I was noticeably upset. Mr Shutaq took my hand and told me it was never wasted effort in trying to help another. I don't know why I let him continue to do so...
She sighs, and turns her head to look out the portal window.
Of course I know why. The feeling I had was unmistakable. I did my best to try and hide the fact my heart was beginning to race. I don't remember what I said after that, I was lost, trying to savor the moment.
She shakes her head and looks down at the floor
I should have known better. Laerise came in as she always does at the start of her shift. I must have lost track of the time. I pulled away from him and greeted her as I heard her enter, though I think she still saw. She does not approve of the Ordo, given some incidents they were involved in during the past. It's difficult to know if my associating with him is going to be looked upon poorly or not by my comrades and superiors. I know I will not let any feelings I have jepordize my standing within the Preatoria.
My duty to them is my first and foremost path, God help me fulfill it.
I have not been as faithful to these recordings as I would like, but, I have been very busy enjoying the life God has laid before me.
She smiles slightly, a content sigh passes her lips.
I have been making very good progress on the next phase of our software initiative. Commodore Piskonit may have been premature in his announcements, but I imagine he wants to generate some kind of excitement as well as to secure additional funding for the project. There are some quirks about the pod interface that are annoying, but they will be overcome in due time. We are ready for some systems tests which I'm sure will expose some errors.
Laerise had spoken to me of some inappropriate behavior of LtJg Lianne and LtSg Tyrell at Paradise. I happened to bump into Ms Lianne and Mr Karvash at the Basilica and made an offhand comment about it, not really thinking much about it honestly.
Mitara shakes her head and frowns
The poor lass went totally out of control. Since she insisted on discussing the subject, I had to oblige. It was a good opportunity to perhaps demonstrate the repercussions of her public face. She eventually summoned Mr Tyrell to refute Laerise's account, which he really didn't. I don't know if she understood what I was trying to convey to her or not, time will tell.
"LtSg Tyrell made it a point to tell me what I should and should not be involving myself with concerning my subornidates", she says sarcastically.
"I let him rant on and he left adruptly. " She smirks. "After I had left the Basilica I set him straight."
That man is going to learn his place, and I fear it is going to be quite a painful lession for him. Oh well, what must be done must be done.
A smile creeps back onto her face.
I went to Paradise last night, Mr Shutaq was there enjoying some tea. It seems the White Rose Society has filed articles of war with CONCORD against the Ordo. He was solmn about it, though he does welcome the chance to show the Sansha scum the folly of thier heretitical ways. If they engage in the warzone I may try to assist as I can.
Mitara leaves her workbench and moves to the large seating chair, lowering herself into it looking very relaxed.
We spoke for some time. It was a very pleasant conversation, mostly of family and our childhoods. I find myself so at ease with Ald... Mr Shutaq. Perhaps too much so. At some point we got on the subject of Ms Nurataki leaving the Preatoria, which in turn included talk of some of the other recent defectors. As I had tried with them all to show them they were making grave mistakes, only to have them still defect... I was noticeably upset. Mr Shutaq took my hand and told me it was never wasted effort in trying to help another. I don't know why I let him continue to do so...
She sighs, and turns her head to look out the portal window.
Of course I know why. The feeling I had was unmistakable. I did my best to try and hide the fact my heart was beginning to race. I don't remember what I said after that, I was lost, trying to savor the moment.
She shakes her head and looks down at the floor
I should have known better. Laerise came in as she always does at the start of her shift. I must have lost track of the time. I pulled away from him and greeted her as I heard her enter, though I think she still saw. She does not approve of the Ordo, given some incidents they were involved in during the past. It's difficult to know if my associating with him is going to be looked upon poorly or not by my comrades and superiors. I know I will not let any feelings I have jepordize my standing within the Preatoria.
My duty to them is my first and foremost path, God help me fulfill it.
2009-06-25
No Title
Mitara sits in her seating chair, legs curled beneath her. She's wrapped in a white full length bath robe, her hair still damp from a shower. Her datapad and a steaming drink rest on the side table.
Well... things are not a total disaster. I spoke with Aldrith some this afternoon, I think we can be cordial, which pleases me. Laerise and I spoke of him for a time... I will have to inquire about some of the things she has said, but not now... He was busy writing in that journal of his. I told him of these video clips I've been keeping, he seemed rather surprised. I asked if he had written about me at all, he said he hasn't... yet.
She chuckles
What I wouldn't give to be looking over his sholder when he does.
She reaches out and lifts the steaming drink, blowing on it first before taking a sip
I believe we are getting close to releasing our new systems software. After some feedback and resolving some pod interface issues things are looking good. I hope it is found useful for all the effort I've put into it.
Mitara takes another sip and sets the drink back on the side table, she furrows her brow
But then we have this thing with Lt Tyrell and LtJG Karvash. From what I can tell, Zenton was overzealous when engaging a suspected pirate and an innocent suffered from it. These things can happen in the warzone, and the LtJG did the proper thing and reimbursed that pilot. Lt Tyrell... he looks to have berated and shamed Zenton so, that he had disconnected from all comms channels and had revoked his PIE access rights. Thank God Captain Laerise and myself got to him before it was too late. Such nonsense that he was turning into a pirate... not Zenton... I won't allow it.
She grabs her datapad and begins working it quickly
I'm relieved that Lt Command Priboj has returned. Though I do not dislike conducting interviews, it has given me time to work on other things, which has been a much needed distraction. With the addition of Condor Amarr and Hiigaren the load of interviews has been spread out nicely.
All in all things look well on the front lines. I have nothing of note to record there.
Mitara nods satisfied
God is with us, so we shall prevail... God is with me, so I too shall be strong for His Glory...
Well... things are not a total disaster. I spoke with Aldrith some this afternoon, I think we can be cordial, which pleases me. Laerise and I spoke of him for a time... I will have to inquire about some of the things she has said, but not now... He was busy writing in that journal of his. I told him of these video clips I've been keeping, he seemed rather surprised. I asked if he had written about me at all, he said he hasn't... yet.
She chuckles
What I wouldn't give to be looking over his sholder when he does.
She reaches out and lifts the steaming drink, blowing on it first before taking a sip
I believe we are getting close to releasing our new systems software. After some feedback and resolving some pod interface issues things are looking good. I hope it is found useful for all the effort I've put into it.
Mitara takes another sip and sets the drink back on the side table, she furrows her brow
But then we have this thing with Lt Tyrell and LtJG Karvash. From what I can tell, Zenton was overzealous when engaging a suspected pirate and an innocent suffered from it. These things can happen in the warzone, and the LtJG did the proper thing and reimbursed that pilot. Lt Tyrell... he looks to have berated and shamed Zenton so, that he had disconnected from all comms channels and had revoked his PIE access rights. Thank God Captain Laerise and myself got to him before it was too late. Such nonsense that he was turning into a pirate... not Zenton... I won't allow it.
She grabs her datapad and begins working it quickly
I'm relieved that Lt Command Priboj has returned. Though I do not dislike conducting interviews, it has given me time to work on other things, which has been a much needed distraction. With the addition of Condor Amarr and Hiigaren the load of interviews has been spread out nicely.
All in all things look well on the front lines. I have nothing of note to record there.
Mitara nods satisfied
God is with us, so we shall prevail... God is with me, so I too shall be strong for His Glory...
2009-06-17
Bittersweet anniversary
The video feed activates, Mitara stands holding a datapad, facing the camera. Her face is red, her eyes slightly swollen, tears stream from them.
She unceremoniously tosses the datapad onto the side table and throws herself into the oversized chair.
I am a fool, a God Damned fool.
Her hand covers her eyes and her body shudders and she begins to cry... again.
Why did I ask him...? What was I thinking!?
She throws her head back, lying across the chair.
He was so shocked, I thought he may never speak. I wish he hadn't. To be denied because of another would be bearable, the knowledge that someone else that may, or may not, be my better.... I can live with that... but Oaths... I was defeated before I even wished to join the fight.
She shakes her head.
Then he suggests something hidden... something secret... How could I shroud myself so? Is he even the man I thought him to be... to even think of betraying himself or his Order? Oh, let us not forget his role as proxy for that betraying, manipulative rat.
I am a fool.
More tears roll down her face
Yet I am broken... I ache as never before... My breath escapes me... What hold does he have over me still? I wanted nothing more than for him to continue to hold my hand in his... I stopped him... WHY?
Because he is not what I thought him to be, that is what I will tell myself... Will I come to believe it?
Mitara closes her eyes, she looks very tired
Why did Laerise have to be there, I just wanted to have one drink in solitude to dull the pain and shame, and instead I am shamed more because she sees me... weeping like a baby...
Oh God... Damn you Shalee... Damn you Laerise... Why did I listen you?
Her words begin to trail off...
Happy Anniversary... Happy...
A few incomprehsible mumbles escape her lips before the nights alcholol takes it's hold as she passes out.
She unceremoniously tosses the datapad onto the side table and throws herself into the oversized chair.
I am a fool, a God Damned fool.
Her hand covers her eyes and her body shudders and she begins to cry... again.
Why did I ask him...? What was I thinking!?
She throws her head back, lying across the chair.
He was so shocked, I thought he may never speak. I wish he hadn't. To be denied because of another would be bearable, the knowledge that someone else that may, or may not, be my better.... I can live with that... but Oaths... I was defeated before I even wished to join the fight.
She shakes her head.
Then he suggests something hidden... something secret... How could I shroud myself so? Is he even the man I thought him to be... to even think of betraying himself or his Order? Oh, let us not forget his role as proxy for that betraying, manipulative rat.
I am a fool.
More tears roll down her face
Yet I am broken... I ache as never before... My breath escapes me... What hold does he have over me still? I wanted nothing more than for him to continue to hold my hand in his... I stopped him... WHY?
Because he is not what I thought him to be, that is what I will tell myself... Will I come to believe it?
Mitara closes her eyes, she looks very tired
Why did Laerise have to be there, I just wanted to have one drink in solitude to dull the pain and shame, and instead I am shamed more because she sees me... weeping like a baby...
Oh God... Damn you Shalee... Damn you Laerise... Why did I listen you?
Her words begin to trail off...
Happy Anniversary... Happy...
A few incomprehsible mumbles escape her lips before the nights alcholol takes it's hold as she passes out.
2009-06-08
For a Sister
The video feed comes into focus. Mitara is paging through a book of literary works, sitting upright and proper in the familiar chair, her uniform immaculately pressed and cleaned
I spent some time at one of God's most serene places, the Amarr Legio Basilica.
Her eyes close and she drifts off in thought
You could feel a touch of the divine, the feeling of being just an inkling closer to God. It warmed my heart so.
She closes the book on her lap
I will urge Lt Cmdr Narutaki to spend as much time as she can in prayer and meditation among the Emperors of old... There she can find peace from the torment she has placed herself under. Let one of a softer heart than myself help see her through her troubles, Mr Shataq... Aldrith.
A small smile forms on her lips as she says the name. Her eyes open
He was so kind as to offer to speak with Aefee. I know if there is a chance she can reached, he could be one to do so. His calmness permeates the air about him, you can only feel at ease. His voice... the night he recited one of his poems, I didn't even hear the words, I just felt...
She trails off again in thought, and after a moment speaks again
I will leave a message for the Lt Cmdr, suggesting we meet there, so I can make the introductions.
A very strange night at Paradise, I did not stay long, just long enough to have a short conversation with Ensign Yoblleh and a pilot from the Mandate, one Katherine Dosch, "Red Katherine." The Ensign was going over the nights battles we had against the Tribals. It was good to see a pilot studying to better himself for the next fight. Ms Dosch and I made small talk, she seems a decent sort. I have not met many from the Mandate, if they are all as she, I feel safe knowing that God has at the very least begun tugging at their hearts.
Mitara drums her fingers against the book on her lap
The Lt Cmdr... I wish so much for her to feel His embrace again... I pray she finds it before it is too late.
I spent some time at one of God's most serene places, the Amarr Legio Basilica.
Her eyes close and she drifts off in thought
You could feel a touch of the divine, the feeling of being just an inkling closer to God. It warmed my heart so.
She closes the book on her lap
I will urge Lt Cmdr Narutaki to spend as much time as she can in prayer and meditation among the Emperors of old... There she can find peace from the torment she has placed herself under. Let one of a softer heart than myself help see her through her troubles, Mr Shataq... Aldrith.
A small smile forms on her lips as she says the name. Her eyes open
He was so kind as to offer to speak with Aefee. I know if there is a chance she can reached, he could be one to do so. His calmness permeates the air about him, you can only feel at ease. His voice... the night he recited one of his poems, I didn't even hear the words, I just felt...
She trails off again in thought, and after a moment speaks again
I will leave a message for the Lt Cmdr, suggesting we meet there, so I can make the introductions.
A very strange night at Paradise, I did not stay long, just long enough to have a short conversation with Ensign Yoblleh and a pilot from the Mandate, one Katherine Dosch, "Red Katherine." The Ensign was going over the nights battles we had against the Tribals. It was good to see a pilot studying to better himself for the next fight. Ms Dosch and I made small talk, she seems a decent sort. I have not met many from the Mandate, if they are all as she, I feel safe knowing that God has at the very least begun tugging at their hearts.
Mitara drums her fingers against the book on her lap
The Lt Cmdr... I wish so much for her to feel His embrace again... I pray she finds it before it is too late.
2009-06-05
Unexpected Blessings
Mitara is in her seating chair, wearing her full dress uniform. Several books are laying open next to her on the side table. She is very focused, busily working on her datapad
Admiral Lok'ri has announced this months promotions. Most were of the standard fare. It was nice to see Condor, 'Omnicide', and Saif move up. Garst Tyrell managed to still be promoted, surprising given his role during Aefee's breakdown. His hatred of the Kingdom is startling. Are we not all Amarr? Given these times of miracles and extraordinary calamaties I pray his heart softens towards the idea of better relations between us and the Kingdom.
Mitara pages through one of the open books, finding what she was looking for, she continues working
I am most proud of young Ensign Karvash, now LtJG Karvash. I do wonder if I was the only officer that submitted a recommendation to the Admiral. I somehow doubt it. He is an outstanding pilot, a fine example of a Praetorian.
The most shocking promotions were the appointment of three new mid grade Senior Officers. Captain Vaarun is no longer alone.
She smiles, looking out into space through the huge view port window.
My Sister Veshta. God's Angel of Retribution herself. A worthy and noble woman. Though I have not shared many words with her for some time, I still consider her a close friend. I look back very fondly on our friendly rivalries when we first became Praetorians. My one victory...
Mitara chuckles as she gently lifts the Sword of God medal on her uniform, looking at it and says, "Not but a day or two later did she too qualify for PIE's highest combat honor. "
In the end, she proves to be of God's divine wraith walking among us. I could never match. Her name is known and feared throughout Shakor's militia, and rightfully so.
She lets the medal fall back into place and gazes again into the void
Captain Laerise, another feared and known warrior to our enemies. These past months we have grown closer, and to be honest, I would not have expected it. Her reputation preceeded her as a hard hearted soul, much like Lt Tyrell. That assumption has proved untrue.
Her brow furrows
I still cannot comprehend, however, that she is married to that Chase Starbright.... a woman. I doubt this was God's intent on how we were to mate. When Ensign Lianne said during one of our chats, "her wife," I naturally thought I had misheard her. It does explain the odd feeling I had watching the two of them. I hope to not be in the company of both of them together again, it would be quite uncomfortable.
A slight grin appears on Mitara's face, she appears satisfied with herself, looking down at her datapad
There we have it, this archaic NeoCom interface will not defeat me.
Her gaze again goes to her uniform, this time to her rank insignia, her grin widens
How long, I wonder, will it be before I am used to hearing "Captain Newelle"
Admiral Lok'ri has announced this months promotions. Most were of the standard fare. It was nice to see Condor, 'Omnicide', and Saif move up. Garst Tyrell managed to still be promoted, surprising given his role during Aefee's breakdown. His hatred of the Kingdom is startling. Are we not all Amarr? Given these times of miracles and extraordinary calamaties I pray his heart softens towards the idea of better relations between us and the Kingdom.
Mitara pages through one of the open books, finding what she was looking for, she continues working
I am most proud of young Ensign Karvash, now LtJG Karvash. I do wonder if I was the only officer that submitted a recommendation to the Admiral. I somehow doubt it. He is an outstanding pilot, a fine example of a Praetorian.
The most shocking promotions were the appointment of three new mid grade Senior Officers. Captain Vaarun is no longer alone.
She smiles, looking out into space through the huge view port window.
My Sister Veshta. God's Angel of Retribution herself. A worthy and noble woman. Though I have not shared many words with her for some time, I still consider her a close friend. I look back very fondly on our friendly rivalries when we first became Praetorians. My one victory...
Mitara chuckles as she gently lifts the Sword of God medal on her uniform, looking at it and says, "Not but a day or two later did she too qualify for PIE's highest combat honor. "
In the end, she proves to be of God's divine wraith walking among us. I could never match. Her name is known and feared throughout Shakor's militia, and rightfully so.
She lets the medal fall back into place and gazes again into the void
Captain Laerise, another feared and known warrior to our enemies. These past months we have grown closer, and to be honest, I would not have expected it. Her reputation preceeded her as a hard hearted soul, much like Lt Tyrell. That assumption has proved untrue.
Her brow furrows
I still cannot comprehend, however, that she is married to that Chase Starbright.... a woman. I doubt this was God's intent on how we were to mate. When Ensign Lianne said during one of our chats, "her wife," I naturally thought I had misheard her. It does explain the odd feeling I had watching the two of them. I hope to not be in the company of both of them together again, it would be quite uncomfortable.
A slight grin appears on Mitara's face, she appears satisfied with herself, looking down at her datapad
There we have it, this archaic NeoCom interface will not defeat me.
Her gaze again goes to her uniform, this time to her rank insignia, her grin widens
How long, I wonder, will it be before I am used to hearing "Captain Newelle"
2009-06-01
Wear Down
Mitara sits wrapped with a thick blanket in her seating chair, a steaming mug sit next to her on the side table. She looks uncharacteristically unkept, somewhat pale, and looking very tired...
It seems my schedule has finally caught up to me. I do not know if I had acquired the virus prior to my swim, or if that was the key factor. Regardless my immune system has been worn down and I am sick.
A violent cough shakes her body
Curses!
I checked in briefly with the Praetoria this evening. Captain Vaarun felt things were well in hand defensively, and LtJg Strife and her fleet were just returning from a successful raid into Matari space.
I do feel guilty that I am not doing my part these last days...
Mitara begins to speak but her voice cracks. She rolls her eyes, takes a sip of the hot drink next to her, and clears her throat.
The positive side of being cooped up in my apartment is that I have had time to start working on the report Commodore Piskonit has asked me to compile. My first draft is complete, but I still need to put together the metrics portion of the report. I should...
Another cough wracks her body
I should be able to finish and deliver my complete first draft to the Commodore in the next day or two. God willing my body will have driven this infernal sickness from itself by then.
On a personal note, my father stopped by PIE headquarters to surprise me, but the surprise was his to learn of my illness. He contacted me, wishing me well, and said he hopes to see me the next time he was in the region.
Mitara pulls the blanket tightly around herself as the video feed goes black
It seems my schedule has finally caught up to me. I do not know if I had acquired the virus prior to my swim, or if that was the key factor. Regardless my immune system has been worn down and I am sick.
A violent cough shakes her body
Curses!
I checked in briefly with the Praetoria this evening. Captain Vaarun felt things were well in hand defensively, and LtJg Strife and her fleet were just returning from a successful raid into Matari space.
I do feel guilty that I am not doing my part these last days...
Mitara begins to speak but her voice cracks. She rolls her eyes, takes a sip of the hot drink next to her, and clears her throat.
The positive side of being cooped up in my apartment is that I have had time to start working on the report Commodore Piskonit has asked me to compile. My first draft is complete, but I still need to put together the metrics portion of the report. I should...
Another cough wracks her body
I should be able to finish and deliver my complete first draft to the Commodore in the next day or two. God willing my body will have driven this infernal sickness from itself by then.
On a personal note, my father stopped by PIE headquarters to surprise me, but the surprise was his to learn of my illness. He contacted me, wishing me well, and said he hopes to see me the next time he was in the region.
Mitara pulls the blanket tightly around herself as the video feed goes black
2009-05-29
Will It Ever End?
The video feed shows Mitara pacing from her seating chair to the giant view portal on the wall...
Is there no rest? I had thought with all this Koronakesh business behind us, we could get on with our lives. But no. Lt Commander Narutaki decides to have some kind of nervous breakdown over the traitor Kazzzi and proceeds to break every sensible form of decency imaginable. Defying God, insulting the Admiralty, threating a fellow Preatorian...
Mitara stops, thinking for a moment, then places her hands behind her back and begins to pace faster
Then that stubborn son of a bitch Tyrell had to open his mouth, which only inflammed the situation. Attacking Aefee and then all of the Khanid bloodline. Then the lot of them start chiming in and Aefee only screams louder. Commander Strommer seemed too paralyzed to assist, so I had no choice but to forcibly dismiss Lt Tyrell to diffuse the room.
She comes to her chair and falls into it, looking exhausted
That man is dangerous. I fear if he were to somehow get his wish to see all of the Khanid erased we Ni-Kunni would be next. His hardened heart shows no compassion or mercy.
I pray he is wrong about Aefee. I pray the Admiralty takes appropriate action. Though it does not help her that she was seen by my agent in The Skyhook. Koronakesh... his poison still lingers.
I tried with him to no avail, do I blame myself for his defection?
I did.
Maybe I still do.
Though he got what he deserved.
Will Aefee be different? God willing. She does not seem convinced she is some demon let loose upon the universe, there is hope.
Mitara stands with great effort and makes her way to the vast view port and stares into the depths of space
But what if Garst is right, and I am showing weakness, that I'am wrong? Does Aefee's assertions of her career with the Praetoria then hold true as well? Has my fate been set? Is this all I will become?
She closes her eyes and her head hangs low
I cannot bear the thought.
God be merciful... we are your children... show us the way Home...
Is there no rest? I had thought with all this Koronakesh business behind us, we could get on with our lives. But no. Lt Commander Narutaki decides to have some kind of nervous breakdown over the traitor Kazzzi and proceeds to break every sensible form of decency imaginable. Defying God, insulting the Admiralty, threating a fellow Preatorian...
Mitara stops, thinking for a moment, then places her hands behind her back and begins to pace faster
Then that stubborn son of a bitch Tyrell had to open his mouth, which only inflammed the situation. Attacking Aefee and then all of the Khanid bloodline. Then the lot of them start chiming in and Aefee only screams louder. Commander Strommer seemed too paralyzed to assist, so I had no choice but to forcibly dismiss Lt Tyrell to diffuse the room.
She comes to her chair and falls into it, looking exhausted
That man is dangerous. I fear if he were to somehow get his wish to see all of the Khanid erased we Ni-Kunni would be next. His hardened heart shows no compassion or mercy.
I pray he is wrong about Aefee. I pray the Admiralty takes appropriate action. Though it does not help her that she was seen by my agent in The Skyhook. Koronakesh... his poison still lingers.
I tried with him to no avail, do I blame myself for his defection?
I did.
Maybe I still do.
Though he got what he deserved.
Will Aefee be different? God willing. She does not seem convinced she is some demon let loose upon the universe, there is hope.
Mitara stands with great effort and makes her way to the vast view port and stares into the depths of space
But what if Garst is right, and I am showing weakness, that I'am wrong? Does Aefee's assertions of her career with the Praetoria then hold true as well? Has my fate been set? Is this all I will become?
She closes her eyes and her head hangs low
I cannot bear the thought.
God be merciful... we are your children... show us the way Home...
2009-05-28
Something New...
The video feed shows a large, but sparse room, darkly lit, a very large view port dominates one wall. Through the view port can be seen a nearby planet and the vast ocean of space. A plain side table and a simple plush chair are situated next to the view port. Mitara sits there looking quite comfortable, datapad in hand...
Let's see how this goes.
She executes a few keystrokes on the datapad and rests it on the side table.
The corporate medical officer says keeping some type of journal has helped others release some stress, and to better focus themselves. I'm willing to try...
It is ironic that my first entry finds me very much at ease, relaxed... Happy even. Oh, Miss Lianne your news of Koronakesh's heart being torn out be that Seibestor witch made me most pleased. God has already started punishing that bastard for his treachery.
Mitara chuckles quietly and smiles...
I wish I could have been there to see it first hand.
My patrols went well, nothing in our contested systems, but several installations were closed elsewhere. Ensigns Yoblleh and Ves performed well, following orders promptly. A small engagement with a pirate Ishkur was the only resistance we saw.
Things of note from Paradise Found... I met a friend of Laerise's, Chase Starbright. She seems nice enough, somewhat aloof, but personable. They have an odd air about them, I can't quite place it...
She shrugs
No matter.
Mitara picks up the datapad quickly and begins keying
That reminds me, I must remember to thank Laerise for suggesting Horatius's malted whiskey, it was quite good.
Ensigns Karvash, Lianne, and myself were blessed to hear one of Aldrith's works. It was very heady, and kind of sad... I would like to hear more though, perhaps he will finish some of his 'more cheery' writings, as he put it.
Mitara sits quietly for several minutes, and the slight smile she has had disappears from her lips
Hmphf. I am not sure how I feel about this yet. Perhaps I will try again later...
A key on her data pad is pressed the video feed turns black...
Let's see how this goes.
She executes a few keystrokes on the datapad and rests it on the side table.
The corporate medical officer says keeping some type of journal has helped others release some stress, and to better focus themselves. I'm willing to try...
It is ironic that my first entry finds me very much at ease, relaxed... Happy even. Oh, Miss Lianne your news of Koronakesh's heart being torn out be that Seibestor witch made me most pleased. God has already started punishing that bastard for his treachery.
Mitara chuckles quietly and smiles...
I wish I could have been there to see it first hand.
My patrols went well, nothing in our contested systems, but several installations were closed elsewhere. Ensigns Yoblleh and Ves performed well, following orders promptly. A small engagement with a pirate Ishkur was the only resistance we saw.
Things of note from Paradise Found... I met a friend of Laerise's, Chase Starbright. She seems nice enough, somewhat aloof, but personable. They have an odd air about them, I can't quite place it...
She shrugs
No matter.
Mitara picks up the datapad quickly and begins keying
That reminds me, I must remember to thank Laerise for suggesting Horatius's malted whiskey, it was quite good.
Ensigns Karvash, Lianne, and myself were blessed to hear one of Aldrith's works. It was very heady, and kind of sad... I would like to hear more though, perhaps he will finish some of his 'more cheery' writings, as he put it.
Mitara sits quietly for several minutes, and the slight smile she has had disappears from her lips
Hmphf. I am not sure how I feel about this yet. Perhaps I will try again later...
A key on her data pad is pressed the video feed turns black...
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