While the Weapon in me killed my relationship with Xelan, I sought ways of killing it. Bin returned to visit us on the Third. The nature and beauty of Earth impressed him. As did the people.

"So much hair. All over them."

I nodded. "I know. So strange."

People milled about the city in their huts. Humans dressed in various clothes denoting their class and gender. All of them so very furry.

He shook himself from gawking. "I brought you some news regarding our arrangement."

I held up a hand. "Before you begin, I want to thank you. Not everyone who is willing to make a promise is willing to keep it."

Smiling, Bin opened a device with a small projection. The planet of Thailea revolved in his hand. "You are no doubt familiar with the Ancients?"

I nodded.

"The Tritans stole some of their technology from this lost race. No one knows to what extent. But the ailment you suffer originated with them. I suggest searching the tombs."

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Conveniently, the same location as the ore Xelan asked for to develop his hybrid experiment. "Do the Mystics permit visitors?"

Bin's filmy eyes went grave. "Not since Umbra demolished their parent race."

I looked away.

Kindly, he changed the subject. "King Nox, I would like you to visit my planet after your encounter with the Mystics. I can show you our hospitality and discuss the future of the Third with you."

I looked back out over the city. "I would be grateful for your wisdom. We want to preserve the natural beauty of this place. Never knowing such before now, we are reluctant to settle without harming it."

"I look forward to discussing the ecologies with your brother. Would you like to join me?"

Xelan and I avoided each other for almost a year. He didn't want to see me. Colita informed me of the harm I'd caused. I wasn't sure how to apologize. Or if I wanted to apologize. "Best not. Things are complicated between us."

Bin sighed. "It often happens that way with brothers. But with how long we live, I can guarantee that you will overcome it. Eventually."

When he left, I headed to my throne room. Stopping by the entrance, I demanded of the guard, "Fetch your General."

Korac arrived within minutes wearing the finest Earth fabrics in bright colors. "Your majesty?"

I also took to dressing as humans in only skirts or pants. Our full-coverage robes made them nervous.

I wasn't happy with my next selection of words. It would drive my brother further away. But I couldn't spurn this opportunity. "We have a new campaign to wage."

"What mark?"

"Thailea."