How things work:

-” Dialogues, things spoken aloud. “

-’ Thoughts of the MC. ‘

*Quotes*

I awoke to an unfamiliar sensation. There was something… liquid like, surrounding me. I tried to open my eyes, but a soft, green light permeated my vision and prevented me from seeing anything. I tried to extended my arms, but it only made me realize that I was helplessly floating in some sort of substance.

A panicked breath made me aware that I can breath the strange liquid. A liquid which seemed strangely familiar… I couldn’t place it, but it somehow sent a tingling sensation all over my body, like an electric current that came in waves. It did make feel calm, safe… and cared for…

-’ Like a warm embrace of someone… ‘ My mind was slowly coming out of drowsiness. -’ What was I… ‘

A calming, tingling sensation was washing over my body in waves, just like a beat of a heart. -’ My heart. ‘ I realized.

-’ Ah, that’s my Mana Vat ‘ My memories were slowly coming back to me. I was confused, but it was to be expected, I remade myself.

A merry feeling arose within my heart. -” I am finally free! “ I tried to exclaim my joy, but it turned into strange thudding sounds. -’ Oh, right. I am still in spelled water. ‘ I thought and quickly channeled my power to break Mana Vat’s barrier, which kept the liquid suspended in its egg-like form.

Water was splashing in all directions and I suddenly found myself falling down. Before I hit the floor, made of dark metal, my reflexes kicked in.

Flow of power, usually calm and dull within my soul, twisted and formed into a myriad of knots, sigils that shaped itself into a familiar pattern of the levitation spell. A weightless feeling descended on my body suddenly, which suddenly started floating in midair. The feeling was both similar and alien to the feeling of being in zero G.

I took a look around - I was inside a circular, bare room of dark metal. There were arrays of glyphs that slowly faded into oblivion, same as the Manawater, which normally could not exist in this reality…

Despite bare and dark surroundings I was barely able to keep my excitement in check. I willed myself to float to the doorway, which was not barred by any door. Behind it there was a dark, long corridor without any light, but my eyes were easily able to pierce the darkness.

As I moved through the corridors I was reaching around with tendrils of mana, I needed to check how well the ship had fared during my sleep.

Mana Core, the heart of my ship, was still full of energy. It seemed bright like a thousand suns and I could feel even through all of the spelled metal between us. I turned my attention to the Wards, a magical array of shields that protected my ship., and found out that they were weakened slightly. -’ Hmm seems like a meteor impact… ‘ I brushed the issue for later, as I could always reinforce them with my power if need arose.

Air reserves were untouched, for obvious reasons… there was not a soul apart from me present on the ship. I quickly brushed the unsettling thought aside and concentrated on the Danger Sigil, which was a sort of a magical sentry that was created to look for any threats to my ship… I sighed, scrying magic was one with which I always struggled with and was punished for it often. I shook my head to banish the bad memory and concentrated on the task.

-’ It’s green. Everything seems to be in order. ‘ I clasped my hands with joy and laughed merrily - a lovely sound, that sounded like a crystal bells. The new sound only elevated my mood further my ship was well, I was free and the transmogrification spell seemed to work just as I wanted… I was still anxious to examine the changes to my body.

I floated down the corridor, enjoying the new sensations. -’ I can even float freely now! ‘ Weightless feeling was a sign of true freedom to me, slaves were prohibited from using such spells.

-” But I am a Master now! “ I twirled in the air as I exclaimed. -’ Well, technically speaking,  I am an Exile. ‘ I corrected myself and drowned myself in recollections of the past.

The world I was born on - Shaar. Its vast cities and grand palaces, all constructed only for one purpose, to fulfill Master’s willful wishes. Millions upon millions of slaves, traversing the plazas in endless quest to further the Master’s agenda...

My mood plummeted as hatred and sadness overcame me.

My memories reached back to the test to become Master. A pompous event organized to placate the Republic, which claims to be a bastion of civil rights and equality, but it's only an empty banter. A military alliance with my Homeworld was all it took to convince them otherwise.

I remembered clean and white clad visitors that came from outer space to witness the event, all turning a blind eye to the blatant slavery happening in front of their eyes.

-’ On my world there is no freedom, there are only slaves and Masters… and there's the test,  a gate to a dreamlike existence, but it’s almost like a hoax. ‘

I remembered the stark eyed Master, who stood on the other side of the circle, and his confident smile. He was jovial and welcoming, but it was only an illusion - for him it was just a game, to give a sliver of hope and then crush it mercilessly.

As to pass the test one had to do the unthinkable, defeat a Master. Even to me it was a night impossible task, and it almost killed me. Though I won, only because my opponent didn’t want to risk as much as I did.

After everything was done I was faced with a choice: become one of the Ruling Masters, or become Exiled…  For me there was only one choice, I wanted to break all ties with my previous life.

-’ It was only a choice of convenience for the Masters anyway  - join them, becoming a gear in their machinations, or leave, ridding them of a dangerous rival. ‘

I took a deep breath to calm myself and to take my mind off of the aggravating past. In my absentmindedness I arrived at my destination.

I concentrated and shaped the tendrils of mana to yank open a heavy metal plate that blocked the entry to the Main Room. The plate gave way and I floated into spherical room made of dark metal.

It was illuminated by thousands of moving runes that floated around the room. I was enchanted by iridescent displays created by the runes, they assembled into geometrical shapes, flowing waterfalls of light or just chaotically spread around in an almost playful manner.

Behind the flowing lights, a Great Expanse opened, a gaping maw of empty space and distant stars, held at bay only by the Ward. Distant lights were blinking and calling to me, to come and see what mysteries they hold…

Unable to control my impulses, I extended my arms and plunged them into stream of runes. They assembled into shining chains that clasped my forearms and melded my consciousness with the Spell Ship’s metal form.

I explored the shape of my vessel - forty meters wide inverted triangle of dark metal, with spherical bridge located in the midst of it. From the sides the curved wings extended forward, giving out a predatory feeling. I could feel two pairs of empty egg shaped rooms located in them and joined by convex corridor running across the ship.  Mana Core was located at the tip of the triangle, in the back. On my back I could feel its humming energy trapped in the giant crystal.

I concentrated on the distant stars and instinctively called on a Seeking Rune, an almost prophetic piece of magic technology that could glimpse reality with odd precision. Strands of chance were unveiled by the questing magic and I could feel a pull coming from one of the stars before me.

-’ Hm, maybe I should have decided what I wanted to find...oh well, it’s bound to be something! ‘ I quickly dispelled doubts about my course of action.

I felt sharp excitement at my first true journey, finally free for the first time in my life. An astounding Spell Ship being both the tool and the proof of my liberation.

My hands moved, they were surrounded by thickening runic strands that tried to strengthen my grasp on the Spell Ship. I reached for the Mana Core and tapped the power, willing it into me, it felt like a surging, molten lightning raging across my body, but ready at my beck and call.

I pushed the mana into complicated patterns that caused titanic lightnings to surge across hull of my ship, a sign of unfathomable power capable of warping the very fabric of Universe. My ship was wrenched away, plunged into madness between planes. I steeled my mind to enforce my Will upon the World Which Is Not, an all encompassing place of endless possibility but no reality to it. I felt the unfamiliar reality gnawing at me, wanting to consume me, to join me with the flow of aether, the possibility without substance.

But I held strong, willing my own reality to remain intact and whole. It felt strange, my strength of Will was slowly being eroded, but at the same time, I was energized by endless flow of mana permeating this plane of being.

Once again, I exerted my power and broke the chains of reality, this time to return whence I came from. I held Seeking Rune in my mind and willed it to guide my descent.

Energy surged and suddenly I was plunged into empty darkness. Remains of aether still coursing through Spell Ship and myself.

I was exhausted mentally, but simultaneously, I was bustling with raw energy. My magic, Spell Ship's Mana Core and Wards were full of power, energized to the limit. I could see remains of indescribable substance still lingering on my ship, though aether was quickly evaporating in the harsh reality of this Universe.

-’ Hmm, I need to name it… ‘, I thought lovingly about my vessel, but I was interrupted abruptly.

Danger Rune blazed with threatening crimson light. I called the Scrying Runes, that would allow me to see what was happening.

Fluttering runes assembled into a shape of oval disc and turned into mirror. My gaze focused on the surprising sight. Inside the mirror I could see several ships locked in heated combat.

-’ This thing must be over two thousand meters long and seven hundred meters wide.. ‘ I was astounded by the size of the Vessel shown by the runes. Spell Ships were rarely bigger than one hundred meters and mine was no exception...

And before my eyes was the biggest ship that I had ever seen. I took in its bulky shape covered by extremely thick metal plates. Elaborate ornaments were carved into brass-looking metal of its armor. They made it  look majestic and dignified, instead of blocky and crude. Though the Leviathan’s glory was stained, a multitude of smoldering wounds marred the exterior of the giant.

My gaze traveled to the image of a six small vessels, that were around three hundred meters in length, but I quickly turned my attention to the seventh ship…

An elongated black vessel, that had a pointed prow. It was almost half the size of the Leviathan, with shark like appearance and rows upon rows of weapons on its sides. It gave out distinctly commanding and threatening feeling.

-’ One of the leader...’ I thought as I witnessed wave of shining projectiles leaving side of the Black Ship. Perfect rectangle of orange lights struck unmoving Leviathan and painted it with array of blinding explosions.

In comparison, the response from the Leviathan seemed nonexistent, outmatched by the blinking onslaughts of the Black Vessel and its peers.

I wanted to understand what was driving the events happening before my eyes.

I concentrated on the magic mirror before me and shaped my mana into insubstantial tendrils of seeking intent. I sent them across the mirror to the scene of battle, I hoped that the spell will be able to penetrate combat weakened Wards of the fighting ships.

To my surprise, the spell to detect emotions yielded results almost immediately. I could feel greed, confidence and wicked joy coming from black vessels. On the other hand, Leviathan exuded stony determination and fear riddled with specks of courage.

I felt my eyes water,  feelings of Leviathan’s desperate struggle hit me and stirried the memories of my own past struggles.

Through teary eyes I saw Runes Of Communion that blinked dutifully, left forgotten behind Crimson of Danger and Mirrors of Seeing.

I beckoned and they came forth forming their own mirrors. Replaying events which still permeated emptiness of space, recounts of the past still locked in a cage of distance.

Image of a short and extremely sturdy person appeared. Rich, red beard woven into small braids and clasped with gold covered most of his face and chest. Deep set eyes were shaded by bushy eyebrows, that were giving him a disapproving look. He wore red uniform, riddled with buttons and golden chains.

-” Yii, you Bastards! How dare you blind side revered Merchant of the Brackenrock Clan! “ He exclaimed with intensity. I could feel his character - dignified, determined and direct.

Mean looking person appeared on the other mirror. Bald, with sharp features and condescending attitude. I could feel his greed and disregard for others...Emotions of the Intent Spell interweaving with images of the past.

-” Give up Dwarf, I have you stranded. Surrender your goods and I will let you fly with your ship “  He smirked to show his confidence.

I blinked at his words, realizing that bearded person was a dwarf.

-’ So that’s how dwarves look like ‘ I thought excitedly, I only heard stories about other races and always wanted to meet them.

-” Ha, I would see you try me, Baldy. There’s a great many of you, so you must be really weak. As expected of pirate scum! “ Dwarf responded boldly.

-” We shall see about that. All forces attack! “ Pirate smiled confidently as he gave a signal, at that moment runes showed brief image of the first barrage unleashed by the Black Ship.

-’ Hmm, so they are Pirates! Just like in the stories. ‘ I twirled excitedly in the air, elated by the possibility of taking part in something so exotic.

My happiness was short lived though, I was abruptly aware of the grief appearing here and there across the Leviathan. Only few had died, but the realization of real death, which I could feel from the distance, shocked me and brought swift end to my elatedness.

Suddenly image of the dwarf returned, he looked angry and confident, though my spell informed me about his doubts and sadness for the losses he was encountering.

-” Very well, Pirate. I will give you some of my cargo… “ Dwarf said in calmly.

-” I am glad that we have come to mutually benef… “ Pirate started responding haughtily, but the Dwarf was not finished.

-” For maring my precious ship! I will gladly gift you with fifty, top of the line, Hellfire Cruise Missiles! Enjoy my hard earned money scum! “ Dwarf screamed vengefully and notified his crew. -” Ai! Send them out boys! “.

Pirate’s expression turned sour.

-” I will get you for that, midget! Dark Vestigar’s shields won’t go down so easily! “ Pirate said vehemently.

-” Ha, as expected of cowardly human, to hide behind the Shield! What else are you hiding in there? Is an elven boy your top? “ Dwarf said in a taunting manner, but I could not understand what he meant even with the help of Translation runes.

Pirate bursted in anger, but before  he could respond his attention seemed to be called elsewhere. Then the feed was cut.

I saw an image of the Leviathan, in real time, opening a hundred meters wide metal plate on its side. I could see neat rows of round holes revealed beneath. Smooth shapes flew out of those holes leaving trails of white smoke. Ten meters long missiles split in all directions making flower-looking cloud bloom on the side of the Leviathan.

Small black ships tried to shoot down the incoming barrage, but even the destroyed missiles exploded into clouds of liquid fire, which traveled further on its path. Four small vessels were hit directly and melted away in an instant, I sharply felt their demise.

Two ships managed to destroy preying missiles, but were enveloped by the melting mists. One exploded soon after, while other... did something strange - it suddenly accelerated and disappeared far away in the distance.

-’ Er? Is this how others travel? ‘ I was surprised by the speed, which couldn’t be matched by mere light.

My attention was brought back to the image of the Black Ship. Dozens of missiles exploded near it, fiery payloads unleashed their molten fury clouding the Black Ship in a blazing mist...

I was astounded when white hot shape suddenly broke out of that fiery hell. Some sort of barrier saved it, but it was severely damaged nonetheless. Left side melted away into steely mess, most of its extremities disappeared, though the ship persisted. It looked like a flaming demon of molten metal escaping depths of burning abyss.

Pale and enraged figure appeared on the mirror.

-” You fuckin’ dwarves, I will shit on your face as you die when I gut you... “ Pirate was raging and spewing curses left and right, so I tuned out his voice…

On the other hand the dwarf looked calm, but I could feel his doubts and anxiousness. It seemed that it was his final play.

The Black ship turned its prow in the direction of a Leviathan and tried to purge superheated plate on its front. My mirror moved the view and showed a big cannon that was slowly being exposed. Danger rune turned purple and I was assaulted by the terror coming from Leviathan’s direction.

Communication Mirror awakened to pale faced and terrified dwarf.

-” Oi! This is madness! You must be insane to think that you will get away after using this! You will be hunted even to the outer rim! Republic won’t let it slide! “ Dwarf exclaimed and turned to the side. -” Tuli! I don’t care how, open the ANSIL broadcast channel asap! “

A new mirror appeared soon after, showing emboldened letters.

-” This is Merchant Ship Dernaldhur, we are being assailed with use of forbidden weapon. I repeat, Atomic weapons will be used… “ The message continued, but I could not ignore the plight of the Leviathan any longer. Danger rune was purple, which happened only during death spell activations...

Even if I didn’t have to take part in the titanic struggle before me, I was not going to shy away.

-” I am not a slave anymore “ I stated shakily to myself. Tears flowed wildly from my eyes at the thought of what I am about to do and at the feelings of lives which were already lost in the struggle before me.

One of the mirrors dutifully showed the Black ship as it readied its deadly attack. Metal plate still blocked the canon, but it was slowly moved away by tiny figures.

I extended my arm and used the waves of magic, which served for propulsion, to turn my ship. The bridge was set in the direction where combat took place.

Runes escaped from my right arm, it was frail, pale and slim...but it bore terrible intent.

My voice, crystal clear, began chanting terrible words. Ones, which I thought I will never have to use.

-”  I will offer innocence - the sacrifice - the key to true light... “ I chanted accepting my deadly will.

Energy flowed around my forearm, concentrating before the palm of my hand.

-”  I extend my prayers to you, doomed by my purifying song... “ I sang out my resolve and intent.

Force intensified and energy turned into fire and lightning that melded together, forging a small shining sun.

Black ship’s cannon was almost free of its metal prison.

-” I call now, at this monstrous feast, even if it is deep inside my heart... “ I continued chanting, feeling the gravity of my sin, as I was about to kill.

Sun shook and started wavering, but still pulled more and more strands of power...

-” The Time is Coming, I Overlap, Initialize, Execute, Convert, Convert, Convert… “ I chanted frantically trying to finish before it is too late.

Suddenly the sun stabilized and shrunk, turning its gentle yellow glow into sharp and cerulean one.

-”  Light! Resonate and Fly into the darkness, Overlapping with my Will!  “ My calling voice reverberated with the beat of power before me.

Ray of cerulean light shot into the darkness, moments later I could see it striking the Black Ship. I could feel some sort of barrier vanishing before the concentrated blow, the blazing light perforated prow of the enemy ship.

Backlash of several deaths lashed through me.

I could see several meters wide hole running through the hull, but, to my surprise, the ship seemed to still be in a working order.

-” How is that possible...this spell should have pierced their Wards and left them to die in darkness… “ I said in shock and suddenly realized how stupid I was.

-’ Those ships...they don’t rely on Wards and are just too big! ‘ I thought with astonishment and chastised myself for my mindlessness. I was so focused on using deadly magic that I forgot that this spell was created to fight against small sized Spell Ships and their Mana Cores…

I looked back at the mirror and expected to see Black Ship using weapon that caused the Dwarf to panic.

What I saw instead, was a Black ship getting away from the Leviathan.

I blinked at sudden realization on what had happened.

-’ I have destroyed their weapon! ‘ I twirled in the air, but stopped abruptly, my happiness destroyed by the fact that people died from my spell...

I was ready to accept that burden, after all, they were going to kill the dwarves without reason…

Still, rampant deaths gnawed at me, dashing all of the joy that I could have had from the adventure. I was still vaguely aware of all the lives lost, but the emptiness of space drained the remaining memories of their life. Leaving only nothingness...

-’ It’s just too sad, dying and turning into nothingness... Robbed of even the aetheric communion by the emptiness of space… ‘ I shed my tears anew and my mana driven sorrow perforated into aether. I reached out and sent images of the fallen, those whose memory not yet disappeared, on their final journey into The World Which Is Not...

-” May you join with The Flow and find it whole... “ I said as I disconnected from the aetheric flow. Painful daggers of desolation stabbing at my heart...

I could not stop crying, but some tenacious runes finally made me aware of them.

Communication runes urged me to see them, at my gesture they turned into the mirror and showed the Dwarf. He looked worried and insistent, as he tried again and again to get my attention…

I cleared my nose, then opened the connection.

-” Unidentified vessel please respond… “ Dwarf suddenly paused as the connection was opened and my image appeared before him...

At that moment I yelped and turned the mirror away. I totally forgot that I was naked!

I could vaguely still hear his surprised voice.

-” What was that? Was it really a teary, naked girl that I seen… I must be going senile, Tuli did you see it? “ Dwarf spoke to someone, but that someone’s answer could not be heard.

-” What? You say that you wasn’t watching...Damn at what Nuclear Implements can do to simple dwarven mind… Call me a shrink after we are done, I certainly earned a visit... “ I could feel worry coming from agitated Dwarf.

I took a deep breath to calm myself and used my mana to create flowing dress out of light. Though I was still embarrassed and painfully aware that I was still naked under the insubstantial light…

-” Oi, is there someone out there? Tuli, the channel’s still open, right? “ The Dwarf anxiously inquired.

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I cleared my eyes, then motioned the mirror. My image was back on Dwarf’s screen.

-” Hai! I knew it! Turli cancel my appointment! It would look bad on my record anyway. “ Dwarf exclaimed lively and I could feel his relief.

I tilted my head slightly, I was puzzled why seeking a counsel would be considered bad.

Suddenly Dwarf looked at my image intently. I could feel inner struggle between gratitude and aversion from within him.  As the feeling of gratitude emerged victorious, he coughed to cover his sudden embarrassment.

He bowed and barraged me with words.

-” Aii, thousand excuses Miss. I am sorry for making you wait, please do tell your Commander that I will gladly speak with him now. Even if he’s an elf. “

I blinked in surprise.

-’ I am the only one here... and what did he meant about an elf? ‘ I was puzzled by his antics.

Dwarf looked anxious since I haven’t responded yet.

-” Umm...you understand me, right? “ He asked hesitantly.

-” I do not know the Commander you are speaking of... “ I said doubtfully, then i corrected myself. -” I am alone and answer to no one “.

Dwarf yanked on his beard in surprise and I could feel strange warm feeling rising within him.

-” Ayy...then perchance are you the one that stopped that vile scu...er pardon my words, that vile vermin from destroying my ship? “ He asked cautiously.

-” That I did. “ I affirmed calmly, I found Dwarf’s exotic behaviour amusing.

Suddenly Dwarf let go of his beard, straightened his uniform and cleared his throat loudly.

-” Khem, pleased to meet you. Algan Fardelver, a venerable Merchant of the Brackenrock Clan and Captain of a fine ship Dernaldhur. At your Service! “ He exclaimed officially and bowed.

I was unsure how to answer him, so I did the best I could.

-” Um, Greetings Venerable Merchant...Pleased to meet you? “ I said nervously.

-” Ha, the pleasure’s all mine. Would you grace my ship with your presence? I assure you that Brackenrock merchants, despite vile rumors, are generous and forthcoming in their gratitude! “ Algan looked at me openly. I felt his feelings, which befuddled me - gratitude, sympathy, doubt, aversion, pity and a cold calculation. I could not understand how one person could contain such conflicting emotions at the same time. I could vaguely still hear his surprised voice.

He caught up to my hesitation and further barraged me with his speech.

-” Do not worry. I guarantee, with my good name on the line, that I bear you no ill will - elf or not. On the contrary, I would wish to present you with clothes and other things that you might be in need of. I will not let saviour of my ship run away naked and spread the word of my avarice! “ I was surpirsed by his insight and sharply reminded about my current situation.

-’ I must get some clothes...and food ‘ I realized that Masters of my Homeworld, banished me without any material possessions apart from the Spell Ship. I could sustain myself with mana, but in the long run it would make my visits to other Planes more difficult to return from.

What convinced me to accept were the feelings that I felt from the dwarf. I was surprised by his sincerity and care. I still could feel a bit of an mistrust from him, but it was overshadowed by gratitude.

Thought of total stranger thinking about me with care and pity shocked me greatly.

It was something so foreign when compared to rampant betrayals of my previous life that I felt my heart breaking.

-” Oi, what did I do? Please say something, whatever I did I apologize. I meant no disrespect! No need to cry! “ Algar panicked and his distressed feelings of care brought me some light.

I sniffled and said softly. -” I am sorry. It’s not your fault, I will gladly accept your invitation “.

-’ It was supposed to be my first real day of freedom...and I keep crying ‘ I smiled weakly and laughed through tears.

I could feel Algar’s worry for me mingling with concern and I basked in the warm feeling.

-” That’s much better. Now come, I will prepare you a welcome befitting the Ship Saviour! “ He exclaimed merrily and then addressed his crew. -” Oy, you heard me! Lazy asses! Get your backs working, we have a feast today! “.

I channeled my mana into crystals located at the back of the ship. I felt exhilarating feeling of acceleration as the crystals exploded with power, propelling the ship at astonishing speed.

I took one last look at a Danger rune - it shone with pale green light.

Soon the Leviathan appeared before my eyes. As I got closer, I turned my vessel backwards and made Propelling Crystals blaze with power to stop me bare hundred meters from the giant ship. Sudden deceleration barely affected my mana-augmented body.

I saw plate opening on the side of the Leviathan, revealing docking bay hidden behind it. I switched focus and grasped my ship’s Mana Core. I made it reverberate with the invisible matter abundant in this plane’s void, then used it as an anchor to push my ship around. It was very precise way of travel.

In a blink of an eye my ship swung in complicated n-turn and settled perfectly on the floor of the offered landing space. I twirled happily in the air and wondered about my sudden urge to show off.

Leviathan started closing its doors and I let the runes fall back from my arms. My connection to the Spellship dimmed down and I felt it becoming vague shadow at the back of my mind. No longer merged with my metal vessel I distinctly felt my exposed body.

I slowly let go of my levitation spell and descended to the floor. I turned and walked out of the Main Room, leaving its lights to flutter idly behind me.

With a foreboding clang, heavy plates returned to their resting place and barred entry to the Spell Ship’s bridge.

With deliberate, willowy steps I slowly walked through the dark corridor.

I traced flowing, irregular wall with my hand.

I could almost lose myself in a solemn emptiness of the ship.

-’ Alone. ‘

Haunting solitude of my past threatened to smother me in this dark and cold space.

Each step of my life taken on my own, in fear of being betrayed and hurt, leaving only familiar loneliness…

Suddenly spear of alien feeling pierced my heart.

I hastened my sylphlike steps and watched intently, with my large eyes, as metal before me split under wave of force. My mana opened the doorway, and I could see the light coming from between cold metal plates.

I walked into shining opening and found myself in a big hangar basked in sharp white light. Brass ornaments and white metal-like substance of the walls contrasted sharply with darkness of my Spell Ship.

Several meters away, I could see three figures engaged in a silent quarrel. My sharp senses allowed me to hear their conversation.

-” Oi, I don’t care! Even if it’s an elf I am going to make an exception! “, Algan’s voice was raised in heated whisper. Mix of goodwill and distress, which I felt from him, brought smile to my face.

-” I was only saying that I do not think it’s an elf. Also, you are the one that keeps saying that you won’t ever deal with elves again. “ I could hear deep and rough female voice.

-” But the ears! I tell you, the ears! It’s an elf! “ Algan continued agitated.

-” So which one is it! Make up your mind, or I will really get you an appointment with the psychologist! “ Female dwarf seemed annoyed by Algan’s antics.

-” Oi! You are my assistant. How dare you order me around! “ Algan’s voice seemed confident, but I could feel that the doubt was creeping into his emotions.

-” I am your First Officer you silly dwarf! I am going to kick your butt if you once again treat me like assistant! “ Female dwarf exclaimed threateningly and I could see her fist raised in front of Algan’s face.

Algan looked around in desperation and saw me. Relief showed on his face at my arrival.

-” Ah, our guest is here! Perfect timing! “ Hhe said openly, though his emotions showed inner battle of gratitude and fondness with aversion and distrust.

Female dwarf was annoyed by Algan’s obvious ploy to change the topic, but she only sighed at his sly behaviour.

-” Welcome to my ship, the Dernaldhur, honorable guest. Let me introduce my Assi...argh...First Officer Tuli Deephammer and my Chief of Security Rayvic Badun. “ Algan’s voice faltered when he received mean looking kick to his shin, but he managed to maintain official and dignified air about him.

I looked at Algan’s companions.

Tuli was a bit taller than Algan and had no beard. She seemed slender for a dwarf, though she was still stockily built and much more muscular than Algan himself. Her features were sharp and square, with wide lips and perky nose.

Rayvic was tall and athletic. He was middle aged, with dark deep set eyes and dark hair. His gaze was wary and I could feel his readiness to reach for a weapon at his waist.

Both of them inclined their heads toward me.

Tuli’s emotions, when she spoke to me, were like a calm wave - both analyzing and curious, bearing a hint of gratitude.

-” Greetings, traveler. Thank you for your help during the attack. Could you explain to the Captain about your race? He’s going to rip out his beard otherwise, thinking that you are an elf “ She looked at Algan pointedly and he exuded embarrassment as he let go of his beard.

-” Please don’t worry I am human… “ I told them the truth and was surprised by the wave of disbelief that suddenly assaulted me.

-” I knew it! Its an elf - they all lie! “ Algan exclaimed in exasperation. Tuli hit him in the shoulder and I could see him wincing under the impact.

-” Um, you look rather...unusual... for a human “ Tuli said hesitantly.

I realized that it was true, my body was far from normal - human or otherwise.

-” I guess that is true, probably Manaborn would be more accurate description now. “ I responded in agreement, but blank and stupefied looks were all I got from my explanation.

Silence fallen between us and I felt their feelings of awkwardness and curiosity.

Finally Rayvic broke the silence.

-” Could you explain what being a Manaborn means? “ He said and I could feel that he was thinking really hard about something.

-’ Ah, they probably never met anyone using High Magic. Still, it is strange that they haven’t heard about it... ‘ I wondered, remembering that on my Homeworld it was common for Masters to meld their and their slaves flesh to their liking.

-” For others it's a proof of slavery, but for me it’s a sign that I broke my chains. I melded my being with magic and this form was born to match my freedom. “ I explained.

-” Hmm, so you are saying that, you were born anew or something? “ Algan asked directly.

-” That seems correct. “ I answered simply.

Algan scratched his head in wonder and shrugged.

-” Well no matter, whether to a toddler, to an elf or to a man, I still have a debt to pay! Let us go, I prepared a decently sized party! “Algan exclaimed loudly and moved, motioning for me to follow.

Algan and his companions led me through white corridors decorated with ornaments made of brass-like metal. As we walked, I basked in the ship's aura, feeling its dignity and liveliness of its crew. I could not compare it to the majestic halls of Masters, which, apart from grandeur, radiated only greed and despair.

I closed my eyes and moved in flowing steps, intertwined with fluid twirls.

I thrown my head back and took steps to the invisible beat of the ship's heart, melody sprung by lives of sturdy, earnest and hardworking dwarves...

Finally baffled feelings of my companions brought my attention back, and I looked at them while tilting my head. Algan, Tuli and Rayvic looked back at me, indecisiveness and wonder painted vividly on their faces.

-” Is something the matter? “ I asked, curious about source of their uneasiness.

-” Erm, No. I mean, are you alright...you seemed distant. “ Algan said, but I could feel that he was hiding something. Algan’s companions also bore dumbfounded looks.

-” I am sorry, I could not stop myself from admiring your ship. The place I came from... could not compare… “ I said, sadness of old pains gripping my throat.

-” Ha! If it was similar to that dark ship of yours, I would drink myself blind if I were you! Tell me what were you d… ouch “, Algan’s lively speech was interrupted by Tuli’s elbow.

-” Excuse that big oaf. We are almost at our destination, let us enjoy the festivities. There’s no need to dwell on the past. “ Tuli said apologetically and gave Algan chastening look.

Their barter and ship’s aura felt like fresh rain on my parched soul. I moved without thinking and hugged Tuli happily. Her sudden grunt of pain made me back away just as fast.

-” Ahh, I am sorry! I did not want to hurt you, I am still not used to my strength! Are you alright? “ I bowed down apologetically, beating myself for my thoughtlessness. I have forgotten that I made sure that this body is on par with a Combat Adept, specially modified soldier-mage specializing in combat.

-” I am good. We dwarves are a sturdy lot. Though if you ever want a hug, let me respectfully decline in advance. “ Tuli said and smiled weakly throguh pain.

I sent questing wisp of force and confirmed that she was unhurt. I poured some of my mana to help her recover her bruises.

Algan relaxed, but I still felt shock and fear coming from Rayvic. He must have realized how dangerous this body is. I didn’t know how to soothe him, so I let it be.

-” Anyway, we have arrived “, Algan stopped before the door and made an encompassing gesture as it opened. Behind him I could see a big room, illuminated by dimmed lights. Multitude of wooden tables, chairs, barrels and a counter took most of the space. No less than hundred dwarves rose and cheered loudly.

-” Oi! YOU ROWDY BUNCH! “ Algan’s amplified voice silenced everyone.

-” Let us celebrated rightful buttkicking of the pirate scum… “, he was interrupted by a resounding cheer. -” ...and precious few who did not make through it. But they need not worry, we will drink their share alright! “, another round of applause erupted.

-” Also! The last but not the least thing! Let us welcome our guest of honor! One which caused even hardened pirate’s cock to go limp and run away in fear! Let the celebrations begin! “ Algan finished his embarrassing praise and total chaos erupted.

Rough voices cheered, barrels were opened and dwarves raised their drinks in toasts. Tuli led me to an empty table, which was raised on a dais. As soon as we sat, big mugs were placed before me and my companions. I was drowned in overwhelming liveliness and cheerfulness.

Algan, raised his mug in a toast and others followed. I did too.

-” First toast, as always, to elven demise! “ Algan intoned loudly and drank his mug dry.

I tried to follow, but the brew was not to my liking.

-” Would you want anything else? “ Tuli asked and was immediately interrupted by Algan.

-” Whaa? Can’t stomach fine dwarven beer? Almost like a human! “ Algan exclaimed and looked pointedly at Rayvic.

-” I prefer my brew weaker than my blaster cleaner, thank you very much. “ Rayvic responded calmly.

-” But we can’t leave our guest wanting! Oi, boys! Bring me some wine! “ Algan yelled and dwarves at surrounding tables applauded for some reason.

-” I do not think that’s sane idea, by any stretc… “, Rayvic’s protest drowned in resounding applause as dwarves returned with a small barrel.

Soon large metal goblet was placed before me. I sniffed the drink, light fruity smell was overshadowed by something really sharp. Expectant looks of surrounding dwarves were focused on me, so I shrugged and drank.

Liquid was sharp and lightly burning, with slight fruity afterthought. It was warming and the taste did not bear raw and muggy attributes of the previous drink. I smiled and nodded in approval. Resounding applause erupted from surrounding tables.

-” Ha, so you are not an elf after all! “ Algan exclaimed happily, while Rayvic gave me inquisitive and dubious look.

-” Anyway, another one! Second one for our gracious guest! Whom shown that not all of the sharp eared folk are not to be trusted! “ Algan raised his newly filled mug and my goblet was not left emptied either.

After draining the liquid I asked to stave my curiosity.

-” Why do you hate elves so much? “.

-” Bha… they are not to be trusted, is all! “ Algan said quickly, but I could tell that there was more to the story.

Tuli chimed in and I could feel that she wanted to exact some sort of vengeance on the dwarf. -” He betted his regular trading route in a drinking contest… and lost to an elf! “ Tuli said smugly and looked at distressed Algan.

-” He was cheating. I tell you! There’s no way someone so skinny could beat a honorable dwarf without resolving to underhanded methods! “ Algan tried to maintain his dignity while surrounding dwarves booed at him.

-” So you are saying that you would surely win a drinking match with our lithe guest? “ Tuli asked mischievously after giving me the evaluating look. Algan looked at me too, and swallowed hard, his panicked gaze wandered around and settled on Rayvic.

-” Ah, Rayvic! I almost forgot! You were saying something about important improvements for the ship. “ Algan said forcefully in seemingly casual voice, but I could see and feel Tuli’s amused expression at his awkward retreat.

Rayvic rolled his eyes, but answered dutifully.

-” Yes, as I was saying over and over, you need to finally fit normal force field onto this ship. It will raise effectiveness of that ridiculously thick armor several fold! “

-” What do you take me for! I am not some cowardly human or worse - a pantsy elf! “ Algar denied vehemently.

-” But your father is using one! “ Rayvic insisted, though he was not really into it.

-” It was a gift! I won’t be found dead or alive behind such a cowardly implement! “ Algan denied again and I could tell that it was an ongoing argument.

Then Tuli chimed in.

-” Just admit that you don’t want to splurge for a new generator and two engineers “ Tuli said, obviously tired of the old argument.

-” I am a proper dwarf! I will not hide behind some invisible wall like some weak elf! I will take it like a real man should! “ Algan kept his ground and hit his chest with the fist.

Rayvic rolled his eyes again and reclined on his chair. Then continued the argument. I could tell that he was doing it only for sake of appearances.

-” What about another two batches of missiles and a Fusion Inhibitor? “ Rayvic said dispiritedly.

Algan furrowed his eyebrows and said. -” Hmm, yes lets do that “.

Rayvic suddenly sprung to his feet in disbelief.

-” Wait, what did you just said?! “ He exclaimed loudly.

-” I said - lets do that. “ Algan responded calmly.

-” I mean what did you meant! Did he just agree to buy not one, but Two batches of missiles And a Fusion Inhibitor? “ Rayvic said in shock, accenting strongly.

-” Hmm, seems so to me. “ Tuli answered calmly.

Rayvic mumbled in shock.

-” I need a drink! “

-” Give me that! “, Rayvic exclaimed and took Algan’s mug, then he downed it in one gulp.

Rayvic coughed and grabbed his throat in pained expression. After a moment I could feel his consciousness slipping and his body sprawled under the chair.

-” Hmm, humans... there’s that “ Algan said absentmindedly and took his mug back.

I drank another goblet while Tuli went to arrange ‘something’, as she called it.

I saw a commotion and a group of dwarves that were bearing strange wooden and metal implements entered. They assembled at a nearby dais, which was empty before.

Tuli returned and sat next to me.

-” Are you ready for some classics? “ She asked.

-” What do you mean? “ I asked back puzzled.

-” Don’t tell me you haven’t heard music before. “ Tuli said in disbelief.

-” Um, I heard that some Masters were really fond of it, but I never heard it. “ I said hesitantly.

-” Hah, you are in for a treat then. “ She said and smiled widely at me.

A black clad dwarf, without a small wooden wand, went before the dais and started doing some strange gestures before the performers. Most of the dwarves in the room became quieter.

Suddenly a lone piercing sound reverberated in the air. Curious of what was happening I have sent a seeking spell around, getting to know some of the things that the musicians were holding.

Deep springy sound of the violin enchanted me, telling me its cheerful tale of lone discovery.

Soon other violins followed creating convoluted lead of springy adventure, their brisk tales intertwined in an uplifting tale that seemed almost like flying.

Sudden booming joined in, like a clash of danger. Drums struck a deep rhythm, that immediately accelerated to tell the tale of conquest. The feeling of incoming, unavoidable plight intensified...

Abruptly metal clang shook me to the core. Sharp clamor of cymbals resounded, intense sounds, like swords struck in violent combat, presented a tale of duelers locked in deadly strife.

High pitched sound of bagpipe joined in, adding another danger on the horizon - an army on the march...

I felt the music, each note striking a chord deep within me. Melody meandered and I followed, heedless of time and place. And when music slowly thinned and died down, I continued moving, heeding another chord. One which resounded deep within my heart.

Eventually I found myself alone in the room. Dwarves sprawled about in their sleep. And my tireless, graceful dance moving me about the room. Mana flared through my body letting me move as my heart wished.

I smiled as I twirled about, for the first time in my life feeling calm and safe.

And I cried again, but this time those were the tears of joy…

I felt like I belonged…

I felt like I become whole...

...but I could not stay with the dwarves.

I was too curious, too anxious, too starved for freedom...

...and too keen to see what other precious things The Great Expanse was hiding from me…

...and, after the farewells, I departed...but that’s the story for another time…

=============================

Hey~, Author's here~

I brought the story true to my name,

I caught the glimpse of that life's tale,

It kindled my heart’s dreamy flame,

It lulled my senses with innocent gale,

and then I wept glistening tears,

without hardships or any fears.

That said, I wish to give special thanks to ‘ mataneloro ‘ whose keen eye and honest feedback helped me improve both my novel and this short story ( which had gripped my hardened Overlord’s heart ). Thank you!

Cheers,

Mea, The Overlord of Dreams and Nightmares

[ and Narrator whom had nothing to narrate this time around...damn! ]

PS1 Poetry's mine Tongue

PS2 Feel free to comment, I am really keen on feedback...

PS3 ...as always.

NEXT ON: A tale of lawless worlds, military equipment and TV program in Western setting?! Stay tuned, its great [ If Overlord says so...]

http://www.royalroadl.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=25190