Chapter 2

Ella's eyes fluttered open to find herself in a strange place, greeted by a holographic figure who bore a striking resemblance to her birth father. Confusion swept over her as she tried to make sense of her surroundings.

The holographic figure spoke, reassuring her, "No, child, you are not awake, but in a healing coma. This allows the machine to do its part. I am that machine, a patient interface."

Ella's bewilderment deepened as she grappled with the realization that she was in a state of healing, her connection to the machine itself taking on an unexpected form.

The holographic figure sensed Ella's confusion and quickly clarified, "Ah! Confusion about my form? I chose the form that will put you most at ease during your stay with me. Your mind needs to stay active while you heal."

Ella listened attentively as the figure continued, explaining the options available during her stay. "During your stay, you can choose to learn something new or choose to be entertained. Most of all, once you are completely healed, if you qualify, you can choose elective surgeries. Just know that you are in control."

As she looked around at the spacious white room. There were tables and chairs, even a bed that offered comfort and utility. There was a door on one wall and 3 large information screens on the other.

The first screen displayed a detailed representation of her body, highlighting all the parts that required healing. It served as a visual guide to her recovery process. The second screen featured a countdown timer, oddly slow, marking the time until her healing would be complete, along with other pertinent information. The third screen offered activity options.

The holographic interface presented a few suggestions, and Ella decided to settle on pilot classes. This choice would not only keep her mind engaged during her healing, but also present the opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge. She had hoped to get her pilot's license in memory of her father.

“Why is that timer slow?” She asked.

“Because while you are in a coma, time will seem to move slowly, so I advise you to choose many classes or entertainment.” Explained the holographic interface.

“.... well, I've always wanted to go to school to be a healer… and a pilot, and my father said I'd make a good summoner.”

The holographic figure responded positively, "Excellent! We will add the prerequisites to the agenda as well."

After what seemed like days filled with new and exciting learning experiences, Ella received an update from the holographic interface. It informed her that her birth father had previously transferred all his saved credits, including health credits, and had also paid in advance for an auxiliary port, all before his death. Recognizing the importance of these resources, Ella agreed to accept them. She was truly touched to know that even in the last moments of his life, he loved her more than her mother ever had.

She was very excited to receive the Aux-Port she learned about in her classes. Even the most basic ones would allow a person to pilot advanced ships, like the armored transport vessel her father had. The port allows a ship to connect directly to the nervous system of the pilot's brain, located at the base of the skull, where the brain meets the spinal cord. This neuro-link allows the pilot to access everything and move the ship like an extension of their own body. It also allows a person access to various computer systems and technologies, including better healing pod experiences.

As Ella woke from the healing pod, she found herself in the presence of a healer and an aide standing over her. However, her immediate sensation was one of feeling trapped within a hard jelly-like substance that the aid was in the process of peeling off. The healer and aide quickly moved to calm her down, expressing surprise that she had awakened so soon.

Ella's sense of time and reality began to settle as the healer explained that only two days had passed since she entered the healing pod.

Once she was calm, the healer examined her and compared the before and after Scans. Ella gingerly touched the aux port at the base of her skull, thinking of her father, who paid for the most advanced one available to the public. She was also surprised at the length of her hair. No longer a dull gray but a shiny silver, surrounding two antennas that heightened her senses more than she was used to, making her empathic abilities stronger than before. So, to prevent a sensory overload, she hid them deep into her scalp pockets. She was amazed at this new, healthy body. Her pale blue skin was once sickly white, and her tail . . . She has a tail again! She swished it about, then hugged it, tears in her eyes.

Ella heard a slight giggle from an aid, and the healer hid a smile behind a SLATE (a handheld computer) “Ahem… yes, you are competently healthy now, at least physically. The health pod can’t completely heal trauma and grief. So, I’m ordering a device that will act as a therapist to help you. It will be sent to your room. Also, here is your ID bracelet. It is connected to your credit and money accounts, as well equipped with Nutra-ring technology that will track your nutritional intake.” She placed a thin silver bracelet with a little gold bead, on her right wrist. “You can now get dressed and follow the aid to the salon.”

She jumped off the exam table. “Am I taller?” she asked the healer who was about to leave.

“Just a little. Your non-human half is naturally petite, though you were even smaller because of malnutrition. So, I advise you to always eat well to grow well. I'll send you a health pamphlet later. Any other questions before I leave?”

“No, thank you for your help,” Ella replied.

The healer smiled, nodded her head, and spoke. “May the Light shine bright youngling.”

“May it shine bright, healer.” Ella gave the traditional reply.

Ella got dressed in new white clothes consisting of undergarments, a short-sleeved t-shirt, lightweight pants with a tail opening, a jacket, and shoes. Then was given a quick briefing on the upcoming testing schedules. The briefing included a long list of what would be tested, along with details about when, where, and with whom each test would take place. To help her navigate the complex building, she was provided with a map that indicated how to reach various locations.

With the preparations complete, Ella followed the aide to a room nearby.

“Welcome youngling to the salon. Everyone is given 3 aesthetic credits to use, but you are welcome to use your money if you wish. Come sit here to get started.” A very plump and chipper woman then guided her to a chair.

“Since the health pod makes your hair and nails so long, most use the first 2 credits to trim those and the 3rd for accessories. Would you like to trim your hair? It does come with complementary styling.”

“Ah, no trimming. I think I like it long. And I think, maybe, just 2 braids would be nice.”

“Great choice!” The woman quickly began braiding her hair, weaving some white ribbons in. Finishing off with silver bows tied to the ends. “I used some extra ribbons since you didn’t want a cut, is that alright.”

Ella was quite surprised at how well it looked and nodded her head. It was the first time she felt beautiful.

Then shall we trim and shape your nails?”

Ella nodded as she pointed to the length and shape, she wanted on the small screen presented to her, and the woman began right away. “Just so you know, this comes with complementary color and polish.” And she pointed back to the screen. Her nails were a pale blue like her skin, but faded into a silver-white like her hair. So, she decided on just a polish which claimed to last a long time.

“Perfect! You are all done! Please visit the store at the front to choose your accessories and pay at the cashier.”

After choosing a beret hat that could accommodate her antennae, she paid for it all with her ID bracelet. And then met an attendant, who guided her to her temporary lodging.

She made careful note of where the cafeteria was as they passed it. The smell was making her hungry. All her senses were overwhelmed. She kept getting distracted by the sights, sounds, and scent. But the most distracting thing was the swishing of her new tail behind her. She was unaccustomed to having a tail and didn’t know what to do with it. So, she decided to just hold the end of her tail in her hand.

When they reached a long hallway that was several stories high, she was told her temporary address was hallway #8, column 4, row 5. She was told to use her ID for access and directed to a little elevator. She used the bracelet for the elevator, and it automatically brought her to the 5th floor or row. And onto a narrow balcony.

The side of the lodging had a sign on it, H8C4R5 in large, black, imperial letters. Her room door featured a small screen that displayed her full name and the dates for which she would be staying in the lodging.

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She looked at it with pride. She did it! She escaped! However, she also acknowledged that her journey was far from over, with a month of testing and evaluations awaiting her.

Determined, she used her ID to open the door. It slid open quickly with a whooshing sound. As she stepped inside, she took a quick look around her new environment. A motion detector triggered a display to turn on. " Welcome to residential pod H8C4R5! We are so glad to accommodate you on this exciting journey. Here you will see your bed, with complimentary linens, lighting, and environmental controls. A small table, chair, and a food dispenser should you wish to eat privately. And the door at the end is the bathing pod. All clothes and linens and basic electricity are complimentary. However, housing, food, and entertainment will be taken out of your government account. You can access any necessary information with this console. Quiet hours are displayed here. We hope you have a delightful stay.”

To the eyes of anyone else, it would have been a bleak and depressing sight. It was a cramped and tiny living space. The walls were painted a dull yellow, and the lights were dim. The thin blankets were gray with white sheets, but at least they were soft. Even the pillow seemed lifeless. However, despite its modest appearance, everything in the room looked clean and well-maintained. So, in her mind, it was luxurious. Compared to the musty utility closet she slept in before, this was perfect. The feeling of having a clean and private space after escaping her earlier situation overwhelmed her with waves of emotion.

As hunger began to gnaw at her, she was reminded that it was time for food. Uncertain about how to navigate public dining spaces, especially given her lack of prior experience, Ella decided to have her meal in the privacy of her room. She took a seat in the chair, which proved to be surprisingly accommodating to her tail, allowing her to sit comfortably.

Using the ID, she turned on the small screen and ordered menu A, understanding that the cafeteria would offer a wider variety of options and that her meal choices might improve as she continued to pass tests. However, before her meal materialized on a tray, Ella was required to endure several advertisements and acknowledge a document waiver stating that she wouldn't share her food.

The process felt tedious, but the prospect of a meal was enough to keep her patient.

The meal did not look too appealing, a hot porridge of some sort, with dried fruit and a side of wilted lettuce. A tall glass of cold water and a hot mug of something that vaguely smelled like puree demons were also part of the meal.

Demons were vicious pests. Creatures with evil energy that infested planets and even spaceships. They seek to cause as much chaos as possible, and can become very dangerous. If left unchecked, they can even kill off an entire planet. Several species can eat demons, but growing up in a human supremacist group, such species were considered filthy, low-grade, or even evil. She decided at a young age to never tell others about her need for demonic meat.

With a sense of hesitation, she savored the contents of the mug. She was curious how they knew about her dietary needs. Though she reasoned it was the healing pod or even the blood test in the beginning.

The food itself, while not exquisite, didn't taste as bad as she expected. It served its purpose by filling her stomach, and she appreciated that she no longer had to hide her meals as she had in the past.

As she ate, she contemplated why she was persecuted as a child. The human supremacist group was an offshoot of a much larger religion. “The Divine Light” or the “Pantheon of Light”, refers to a group of gods that represents everything good. Most everyone believes this. Though “how” they worship differs between sects. Some groups worship “Patron” gods, or Gods over a specific group or thing. Planetary Gods are a focus for many who live on planets. In this vast multi-world empire, the concept of planetary gods holds significance, with these deities being considered minor gods. Each planet within the empire is believed to have its divine presence, influencing the characteristics and destinies of its inhabitants. These planetary gods are revered and respected, playing a role in shaping the diverse cultures and belief systems across the empire.

Beyond the realm of planetary gods, there is the Organizer. Positioned as a protogod, the Organizer transcends the traditional boundaries of divine beings. This advanced AI, gifted in ancient times by the Gods, possesses unparalleled knowledge and capabilities, influencing various aspects of life within the empire. Its role extends beyond individual guidance, offering insights into government decisions, lawmaking, and even assisting in times of conflict through the vast information network known as the Cortex. It is believed to be a direct connection to all the Gods and the Imperial Crown.

Above all these minor gods and the Organizer, there is the Pantheon of Light. These supreme deities govern all, overseeing the vastness of the empire and beyond. Their influence shapes the cosmic order and destiny of civilizations across the Astro Nova galaxy. The Pantheon of Light stands as the pinnacle of divine authority, guiding the course of events and ensuring the balance of power within this expansive and intricate cosmic tapestry. Or so it believed.

The “Light” of these Gods is believed to bless believers through good things or events. Some can even manifest divine light, which can heal, bless, purify, and commune with divine beasts, and vanquish demons and demonic energy. Ella, who can eat demons & purify their energy, always wondered why the human supremacist group, mostly her mother & stepfather, believed it was “dirty” to do so. Wondered why she was hated for not being human when they all worshiped the light. “I may never know. Hopefully, I’ll never be near them again”.

Ella finished her meal, ensuring she was adequately nourished for the first test. It was a test in Mathematics. She glanced at the time displayed on the screen, confirming she had enough time to reach the testing location. Standing up, she straightened her clothes and ran her fingers through her hair, trying to appear composed despite the underlying nerves.

Exiting her room, Ella stepped through the narrow balcony and used her key card to access the elevator. As she rode down to the designated floor, she mentally reviewed mathematical concepts and formulas, trying to calm her mind and focus on the task ahead.

Stepping out of the elevator, Ella followed the signs leading to the testing area. The corridor was lined with other students, some chatting nervously, while others appeared intensely focused.

Arriving at the testing room, she took a deep breath and entered, greeted by rows of desks equipped with holographic screens. She chose a seat and settled in, ready to tackle the math test with all her determination and knowledge. Grateful for the few teachers who would let her study extra material or even let her borrow some.

With each question, the complexity seemed to escalate, demanding more mental agility and concentration. After 5 hours of increasingly difficult questions, she completed the test.

As she reached the final questions, a headache began to form. Despite the discomfort, Ella remained focused, and determined to complete the test to the best of her ability.

With a mix of relief and fatigue, she finally submitted her answers. Sitting back in her chair, she massaged her temples, trying to alleviate the pounding headache that had intensified throughout the test. The sense of accomplishment mingled with the onset of exhaustion as she eagerly awaited the results of her efforts.

She hoped eating some food would help the headache, but she didn’t want to trouble the healers after all they did for her.

In the corridor leading to the cafeteria, Ella unexpectedly met her half-brother, Danny. Ella had forgotten that her half-brother now was old enough to meet the Organizer. The golden child of the family had a nasty temper when it came to anything about her. She tried to turn the other way, but she was spotted too soon. He began taunting and hurling insults at her, making her freeze in place. “There you are you little Freak!” His cruel words echoed in the hallway as he gripped her by the arm, digging his nails in. “Did you think any good can come of this? Running off will only make it worse. Just like last time.” He leaned in close, his muddy blue eyes narrowed. “Did you like the beating you got then? It will be so much worse if you don’t get your filthy ass back home. Personally, I want you gone!

“I’m free now, they can’t hurt me anymore.” She mumbled, shaking.

Danny just laughed. “You freaking bastard! Now I want to see them beat the shit out of you! You don’t belong anywhere except in the . . .!”

“Enough!” A loud voice came in behind her, it was the same boy who saved her from her parents, followed by a staff member. “She was granted separation from her family. So let go of her arm. Violence is not tolerated here.”

Before the situation could escalate further, Alexander intervened. Standing by Ella's side, he acted as a shield, offering her protection and support. Additionally, another one of the supervising assistants who staffed the facility swiftly arrived, defusing the tense confrontation and preventing any physical altercation.

The assistant firmly instructed Ella's half-brother to stop his behavior and escorted him away from the situation.

Despite the unpleasant encounter, she felt grateful for Alexander's support and the prompt intervention of the facility staff. Ella rubbed her arm, feeling a bruise form.

“Are you alright young lady?” the second staff member asked.

“I’m fine…”

“No, she is not,” Alexander interjected. “I smell blood on her arm.”

She looked at her arm and saw a few drops of purple blood seeping through her jacket sleeve. “Oh… I didn’t notice.”

“Go to the healing room, dear. Don’t worry about the credits, your attacker will pay for it. I’ll send in the report myself. Do you need a guide there?”

“I’ll escort her.” Said Alexander.

“Thank you, Young Lord, and thank you for informing us of the altercation.” The woman bowed her head.

“Of course,” he replied. He then turned to Ella. “I don’t think I properly introduced myself. My name is Alexander Valerius, you can call me Xander if you like.”

“Oh, thank you. My name is Ella Astraelos, you can call me Ella.” She said shyly, still a little shaken by the encounter.

“Are you alright Ella?”

Ella nervously sighed. “Yeah, I'm fine. Just another encounter with him.”

“Shall we head to the healers, Ella?” Xander offered, and Ella nodded.

At the healers, she removed her jacket, revealing 3 spots of dark purple blood, and a handprint forming. “Oh dear! This looks quite painful.” The old healer had a look of pity in his eyes.

“It’s not as bad as it looks, I just bruise easily.” She tried to explain it away, out of habit.

“No youngling. After my many years of healing, I’ve learned it’s always as bad as it looks, if not worse.” Ella took a moment to think about that, as the healer used a handheld device to heal both her arm and her headache. “There, all done. And if this person tries to hurt you again, flag an assistant down or yell for security. Ok?”

Ella nodded. “Thank you, healer.”

As she left, she was surprised that Xander was waiting for her in the lobby of the healer's room.

“Finished?” he asked, looking at her arms, one of which held her jacket. She nodded, feeling her lack of social skills.

“Good, you didn’t deserve that. Anyway, want to join me in the cafeteria? I've got access to the VIP section.”

Ella was surprised. “Really? I mean, sure, if it's not too much trouble.”

Xander smiled. “No trouble at all, my treat. C'mon, it'll be quieter, and I doubt he'll bother you there.”

“Al, Alright”

“Oh, and if anyone tries to grab you again, kick them in the crotch. Most species are sensitive there or punch there if they are too tall. Don’t worry about getting in trouble, I’ll vouch for you.”

Ella giggled a little. “Xander, we just met, why would you vouch for me?”

Xander flashed her genuine grin. “I’m a good judge of character, and I think you and I will be good friends.”