There had been more to the meeting, mostly the aggravating scholar asking all about her physical features and what was average for mimics. She was released from the medical center a few hours later and moved to a room that usually housed ship captains. The small room was attached to the guardhouse, which meant that she could be watched, not that she was going anywhere. They did not keep her captive, but every guard seemed to know her face wherever she went. They did require that she checked in every few hours. As a result, she never got to go very far into the city without some kind of escort. Audrey had been pestering anyone who would answer about Atoninasia while she awaited the king’s reply.

“So, how many different magical species live on the island?” She asked Lealiah one night. The lieutenant had agreed to escort her around the city for a bit after her shift. The sun was just beginning to set as they made their way back to the guardhouse.

“As far as I know, 23.” She replied. Audrey was surprised, she didn’t even know there were that many.

“Oh, how do you fit all of them? I mean, surely, they must have differen’ needs and such.”

“There are different climates throughout the island, mountains, beaches, forests, tundras, and everything in between.”

“But how?”

“Magic.” Audrey turned her head and bunched her eyebrows.

“They created an island?” She asked.

“Kind of. A group of powerful magics came to the island and combined their power to change the island to fit their needs. The effort killed some, and shortened the lives of others.” Lealiah grew quiet, “My husband included.” She added. There was a moment of silence, an unspoken honor to the dead. “But,” she sighed, “now, we have this sanctuary. A home.” Lealiah finished, proudly gesturing to the city around her. And it was a wonderful city. Though the docks had been filled with humans, as soon as she went deeper into town, she saw how different everyone was. There were fairies, centaurs, elves, and other kinds that she had no name for. She even saw what she could only assume to be a dragon flying overhead once. Her people would be safe here.

“I need to get home, my kids are with my brother, but I need to get them to bed.” Lealiah explained as they reached the guardhouse. Audrey walked into her room feeling content. As she entered, she noticed a note on her bed. She couldn’t keep from smiling as she read it. The king had approved for her people to come to the island. They would leave as soon as a ship was ready. Audrey lay on the bed and deflated, breathing out a long-held breath. Her people were going to be safe.

General Elias Aplin sat with a map of Europe on his desk. Audrey Rivers was sitting on a barrel beside him. Beside the mimic was his first mate, Kye Tent, a merman. Scholar Hurston, an elf who had served under him for many years, stood at his right.

“It’s here, there’s an old castle that was abandoned years ago, our coalition found it and put it to good use. I don’t know how many will be there, but there is always at least a small crew.” Audrey explained as she pointed to a spot on the map near the mountains. They had docked the night before on European grounds, and were debating their next move.

“Then we’ll take a small crew to get up there...” the general began,

“No,” the young woman sternly said.

“Why?”

“Cause, they could think it’s an attack and run.” Audrey Rivers explained. The general had to agree with that one, these people would be unpredictable, and he wanted them on his side. Quickly he evaluated his limited options, then made his choice.

“Then Scholar Hurston, you and I will go, Kye, stay here in case something happens. If we don’t return in a week, then get out of here.” he hated leaving his men exposed like this, but they were capable. His first mate nodded sharply.

“The rest of you, pack your belongings and meet me on the main deck.” He dismissed them then got to work.

Ten minutes later they were on their way up the mountain. As they walked, Audrey coached them on the manners of the coalition, and the traditional greeting.

“When you meet formal people, you must use your left hand and make an arch, like so,” She demonstrated, starting with her hand above her head and ending it level with her chest. “Then you shake their hand.” They practiced a few times as they climbed up the mountain. As the silhouette of the castle came into view, Elias’s heart beat faster in anticipation of the events ahead. He allowed the adrenaline to seep into his body, helping him focus. What was left of the castle was two of the towers and parts of the courtyard. All was quiet. The only sound was the wind and their own footsteps crunching against the snow. There were no guards outside, no one watching the walls, no smoke from a fire. Elias scanned the area, but they seemed to be the only souls. He nearly jumped with Audrey Rivers knocked three times, then once, then once again on the massive wooden doors, and he was surprised when he actually heard a voice.

“Identify yourself!” a male voice commanded.

“I am Audrey Rivers, 32nd member of the coalition, part of operation 2. These are my guests.” She pointed to them. “I need to speak with the coalition immediately.” The female mimic commanded. The door creaked open a little more and they were allowed to enter. Inside there was a small crew of armed men. In the dim lighting he could still partially see the silver lines on their faces. They regarded each other carefully, while Audrey spoke to a man who had stepped up to greet them. After a moment, he let them through. Elias watched carefully as they made their way through the entrance, counting the soldiers that he saw as was his habit. There was only ten of them. Scholar Hurston beside him jumped as the doors closed with a BANG!

“The meeting room is this way,” Audrey led them down a hallway. They were flanked by two guards. As she walked down the ancient halls, she wondered who she would see, and who she wouldn’t. The room had chairs lining the rectangular brick walls. Some of the windows along the wall were broken and there were many cracks along the walls. “Have a seat,” Audrey invited her companions. They did as they were told,

“Audrey!?” Shouted a voice of disbelief.

“Claire!” Audrey exclaimed as she whipped around, recognizing the voice. She broke into a smile. In the doorway stood a teenager with blond hair and the same grey markings as Audrey. The two young women rushed to each other, ending in an embrace. They stood together a moment, unable to speak.

“You’re alright,” Audrey finally breathed as she held her sister in her arms.

“Did you find it?” Claire asked, desperation and hope reflected in her eyes. Audrey couldn’t speak for a moment, she bit her cheek to focus.

“I did, I found it, we’re safe now,” She whispered. A single tear snuck down her face. She wiped it away quickly. Beside her she heard other people heading into the room, and knew that reunions would have to wait.

“We’ll talk later,” Audrey said, professional again. She gave Claire another moment to compose herself, then together, hand in hand, they went to General Aplin and Scholar Hurston.

“This is my sister, Claire.”

“Pleased to meet finally meet you, Audrey told us all about you” The General said, flourishing his hand like Audrey had taught him. The General was a quick learner, as was Scholar Hurston, who was nothing like the king’s irritating scholar.

“I hear you have good news!” Claire said,

“We do,” the general said with a smile.

After introductions, an assembly of male and female mimics made their way into the room until only a few chairs were left empty. Audrey and Claire sat next to each other; Audrey next to the scholar. A hush fell over the room as Rowen Canmore, leader of the coalition, stood up.

“An emergency meeting has been called because one of our scouts, Audrey Rivers, has returned to us with news.” He spoke in a deep and confident voice as he gestured over to her. She took the hint and stood up as well. Turned slowly as she spoke, she told them everything that she knew.

“As many of you know, I have been sent out to look into the talking's of a magical sanctuary, and I am here today to tell you that they’re true.” There were murmurs and sighs of relief that echoed around the meeting room. Audrey let them have a moment, the waved General Aplin and Scholar Hurston to stand up. “I have spent the last few months with these people,” she continued, “first on their island, where I found all sorts of interestin’ creatures. General Aplin here is a fairy, And Scholar Hurston is an elf, which ’splains why the ones in the north seemed to of vanished. I have decided to trust them, and I have told them of our plight. They have agreed to help us.” The mimics all inspected the newcomers more carefully, and excitedly talked amongst themselves. Scholar Hurston sat after a moment, but then general remained standing.

“We have several cogs ready to transport any who wish to come to Atoninasia, fully provisioned for the trip ahead.” He explained. Audrey bit her lip, knowing that they coalition did not trust anyone easily, but that they were going to have to. Aplin was still talking to the group, “I am willing to answer any questions you may have, but I sincerely hope that you will accept our offer.” He finished diplomatically, then took his seat. The coalition whispered a few things, then Rowen Canmore called for silence.

“General Aplin, I will have you and your companion wait outside while we discuss our next move.” The general nodded left the room. Rowen turned back to her,

“Now tell us everything.”

Elias waited, pacing, just outside the room with Hurston, who was seated writing down everything that he saw.

“Do you think they will accept?” Hurston asked when he was done writing.

“I-I do not know these people, but I believe so. From what Audrey told us, they need help, and they would be foolish to turn us away.” The scholar nodded his understanding.

“And if they don’t?”

“Then we will go home, we will have done all we can.” Elias replied, trying to not allow his frustration to show. These people would not make it much longer, he knew, and Atoninasia would help them, like they had helped his people. Suddenly the door opened and they were brought back in.

“Moment of truth.” Hurston muttered to him as they went back into the room. The mimic who was clearly the leader was the only one standing besides them. He searched their faces for answers, but found none.

“We have come to an agreement,” the man said. Elias quickly turned his eyes back on him. “We will allow you to take 400 mimics back to your island, and then return here with 10 of them in three months. We will gather them, then send them with you. We would also require that we inspect your cogs before you leave.” General Aplin nodded, that was almost half, which was as good as he was going to get. It made sense for them not to send all their people at once.

“Thank you for trusting us, you will not regret it.” He stated and he meant it. “When will you be ready to leave?”

“When we have enough gathered, you may stay here for the duration of that time.” He hoped that wouldn’t be too long, they had supplies, but he did not want to risk the chance of not having the supplies for the month-long trip back.

“Thank you, sir, but I must check in with my crew within the week.” He insisted,

“Then we shall inspect your ships then. Tomorrow if possible." Elias nodded, glad there were no objections.

“Ola can show you to your quarters,” the man said with a wave of his hand. “Audrey, you can stay with your sister.” The young woman smiled,

“Thank you, Rowen,” he dipped his head. Elias and Scholar Hurston stood to leave,

“Also, General and Scholar, you are to have someone with you at all times unless you are in your quarters.” Elias expected as much, but still didn’t like being constantly watched. They followed the woman to where they were staying. After inspecting the room, they decided to explore. The guard who was posted outside of their room showed them to the common area, which also functioned as a tavern, where there were several mimics already gathered. He noticed Audrey and her sister talking quietly in a corner together. It was the perfect opportunity to gain some trust, and intelligence.

After finding a good spot near the sisters, he and Hurston ordered some food, and offered to pay for it in plain gold, to avoid having to exchange coins.

“What do you think of this place?” He asked Hurston.

“I think that they are very good at hiding, which is a good thing.” He explained, then showed some of his notes. “I have been wondering what climate they would end up in.”

“I agree, though I am sure that they will let us know. Perhaps we could ask.” He glanced over at Audrey and Claire. Audrey was staring at a piece of parchment, turning it over in her hands while not seeming to really read it.

“This-this is too many...” he heard her mutter, the anguish clear in her trembling voice. “How?” she asked. Elias listened closely.

“They found Newkeep..It was a massecre.” Claire responded; her eyes cast away.

“What?” Audrey whispered. The parchment shook in her hands and tears welled in her eyes. “I-I wasn’t fast enough.” she breathed, “I wasn’t...” Elias walked over quietly, Audrey did not look up.

“What is it?” He asked, Audrey did not seem to hear. Claire, who had more composure coaxed the parchment from her sister’s hands and handed them to the General.

“It’s our dead,” she said despondently, not meeting his eyes. There were pages filled with names.

“How many?”

“200,” Audrey managed, the words sounded stuck in her throat. “200 gone.” Her hands clenched into fists. Elias knew that kind of pain, it was part of the reason he volunteered for the trip. He sat down beside her.

“I know what this feels like, and it sucks.” He began, not knowing where to go. “But I promise you, on Atoninasia, this,” he shook the page, “this will never happen again. We will protect your people; they have protected mine.” He paused; Audrey finally shifted her gaze from the ground to his face. They were full of sorrow, anger, and disbelief. “My people were in the same spot you were several years ago, hunted for our wings, but when we came to the island, we were safe. Now we are many, and your people will be too.” Audrey sniffed, then took a deep breath.

“Thank you General.” He nodded,

“Of course, Ms. Rivers.” he replied. He stood and left the two sisters and returned to Hurston. He hoped his little spiel had helped, but he knew that there were things beyond words.

“What’s going on?” Hurston asked. Elias placed the parchment on the table.

“This is their death count. About 200.”

“Oh,” Hurston said. They didn't speak for a long moment. Elias sighed as he looked at the people around him,

“Which is why I think it is so important that we save these people, and all magics. We need to bring them in, before they close the border.” He stated.

“They’re actually closing the border?” Hurston asked,

“It would make sense, with the increase of issues at the docks.”

“What about trade?”

“I don’t know, Hurst.”

Audrey stood at the starboard bow of the ship, looking over her people. General Aplin beside her. Half of her entire species was on one voyage. She prayed that they would make it to Atoninasia, and start anew.

“Are we ready?” Aplin said.

“Yes, let’s save my people.”

Epilogue: The Mimics made it to Atoninasia and found that they quite enjoyed cities. The other half of the mimics came to the island on the second trip over. They elected Rowen Canmore as their elder who would partake in the government counsel who ruled under the king. The mimic species flourished and grew under the island’s protection. Audrey lived near the docks, but traveled often, learning about the different cultures on the island and eventually becoming a scholar herself. Lealiah stayed on as lieutenant until she was promoted to general when Elias retired. General Aplin did more work to get other species on the island until his retirement.

And that is how the Mimics came to be on Atoninasia.

Lieutenant Boulevard readied her men, awaiting the general’s signal. The bushes behind her moved. She turned, spear pointed at the source as a dog made its way through the underbrush followed by Michal and his team.

“What are you doing here?” she hissed,

“The trail led here,” Mart jumped in.

“Great,” Lealiah muttered. “Join rank,” she ordered. Michal was still in control of the dogs, she had him stand with her; the animals might prove useful. She watched the sky for a moment. Suddenly, a fairy flew up above the building giving the signal.

“CHARGE!” She cried and rushed into the room.

The dark room lit up with their torches and the light of Lealiah’s hand. There were voices, some of them crying and all of them young. The kids. Ordering a search to be done, Lealiah found the children in the next chamber over. Bending down to them she smiled.

“Hey, guys, it’s okay now.” She said to the group. The older children stood up and some of them cheered, a few gave her a hug. Pulling herself away from the kids, she had one of her underlings gather them up and lead them outside. As they children left the room, the counted, all seven were there. She let out her breath and went to find if anyone had found the crooks. A low growl came from behind her. Michal was following the two dogs. The yearling gleefully found a small patch of silver blood.

“Leave them, we don’t want to spook her and lose her all over again,” she commanded. Michal clicked his tongue twice. The older dog instantly came to his side, tail wagging, but the yearling took off in the opposite direction.

“No!” Michal shouted as they both followed the hound. They heard a muffled scream coming from the direction the dog had taken, accompanied by excited barking.

“Moxie! Come!” Michal called harshly, the puppy ran out from a room, tail waving frantically. “Good girl, good come,” he cooed at the dog. Lealiah jogged into the room Moxie had come from. Tied to a wall was a woman, the prisoner. Her leg was cut open from the dog bite, silver blood flowed in massive heaps from the wound. Audrey River’s glassy gaze met hers. Her eyes were wide and full of fear as she watched the lieutenant, and more closely, the dog. Lealiah cut her down, Ms. River’s collapsed on the floor. Leaning against the wall for support she stood, glaring a challenge. Lealiah left her, giving orders that she be brought back to the prison.

Lighting a small flame in her hand, Lieutenant Boulevard, along with the head scholar, inspected the unconscious woman. Silver lines crossed her face, a long line that seemed to cut her face in half, a small arch that went across her cheekbones to over the bridge of her nose, and a small line on her chin. Where ears should have been were just holes, indented in her head. Ms. Rivers had passed out along the way due to blood loss and had been brought back to her cell, for the safety of the rest of the building.

“Have you sent word to the capital?” The scholar asked,

“Yes, the general sent word to the king as soon as we found out, we had a message sent that they have their best team coming down, but I don’t know when they will be h-” she stopped short as Ms. River’s opened her eyes, they were dark grey, and still had that glazed sheen to them. Next to her the scholar’s underling was frantically drawing her face.

“What are you?” Lealiah asked. “And don’t you dare say human,” she added. Ms. River’s eyes swiveled to meet hers. She sighed,

“We call ourselves mimics,” she finally replied.

“Write that down,” The scholar breathed to his constituent. The centaur immediately obeyed.

“Why didn’t you just tell us?”

“Cause...” She took a breath, “I had ta be safe,”

“Safe from what?”

“Harvesters, h-hunters, whatever you want to call ’em.” She touched her head with her hand.

“Ugh,” she rubbed her face and closed her eyes,

“Harvesters?” the scholar inquired. Ms. Rivers managed to open her eyes again,

“They take our blood, cause they think it’s real silver,” she scowled, “It’s not,” sweat appeared on her forehead and her shoulders sagged. “It’s not real...” she fell back into unconsciousness. Lealiah looked at the mimic,

“Bring her up to the medical center.”

“No, Jaxson, put that down,” Audrey heard as she slowly opened her eyes. She was back in the medical wing, though this time as her true form.

“But,” she heard a young voice say.

“I mean it young man,” a familiar voice commanded,

“Okay,”

“Mamma?” A young girl said. She had the same dark skin as the lieutenant with long braids clinging to her head.

“What darling?”

“She's awake,”

“I know, she’ll talk when she’s ready, and don’t you disturb her Jaxson.” Rubbing her head as she sat up, she took in her surroundings. There was a little boy with short dark hair, the little girl before, and Lieutenant Boulevard. In the lieutenant's arms was a toddler, laying on his mother’s shoulder.

“Mamma? Can I have a honey stick?” The boy asked,

“Did you bring money for a honey stick?” The boy sighed, then looked hopefully at his sister.

“You’re not taking any of my money,” she defended,

“Here,” Lieutenant Boulevard said turning over a little cash to the girl, “Take your brother and get four honey sticks,”

“Yes!” The little boy pumped his arms as he followed his sister out the door.

“You’ve got some good young ’uns,” Audrey ventured,

“Indeed, Cammie’s the girl, the boy is Jaxson, and this is Lucas,” She indicated to her now fidgeting son. She smiled lovingly at the little boy as she brushed his head.

"Did you find those kids?"

"We did, and two of the four suspects as well, we're still searching for the other two."

"That's good that you found the kids," She replied. Silence filled the room again.

“How long was I out?” Audrey said when she couldn't take the silence anymore.

“After you went out the second time, only about twenty minutes,”

“Twenty minutes?” The first time she woke her head was pounding and it felt like a fever had taken over, there was no way she healed that fast. She remembered talking but couldn't remember what about. She hoped she didn't reveal anything.

“With magic, healing takes a lot less time,” The lieutenant explained. Audrey looked down at her left leg and found it healed, and her right leg shackled.

“Still a prisoner I see,”

“We just don’t want you running away again. You’ve ruffled a lot of feathers, you know, a whole new species on the island.”

“So, what is this place, really?”

“Atoninasia, a home for all magics... a safe place for those who are being hunted because of what they are.” The woman met her eyes, and Audrey knew she had said something about the harvesters in her previous delirious state.

“So, the rumors are true then?”

“Yes. It’s a safe place for those who need it, a good home for a family.” She looked fondly at her child. Suddenly the other two children burst through the door licking their honey sticks. The girl held two extra in her hand.

“Mamma, Cammie got four, but she only gave me one!” Jaxson complained.

“Yes, I know I told her to.” the boy’s mother said,

“Why?”

“Because I want one too,” the woman replied as the older girl handed over one of the sticks to her mother.

“But there’s one more,” Jaxson exclaimed.

“Yes, I know,” She turned back to Audrey, “Would you like a honey stick?”

“Sure,” Audrey replied as the little girl gave her the treat. “Thank you,” In truth, she was hungry, having not eaten since those hunters nabbed her.

“You’re welcome!” The girl piped, she then looked at her shackled leg and took a step back.

“Are you a bad guy?” Jaxson asked following his sister’s eyes.

“Umm,” Audrey said as she patted her hands on her lap. She looked to the lieutenant for help.

“Not exactly a bad guy, but... she lied to me, and you know that it’s wrong to lie.” Lieutenant Boulevard said, cocking her eyebrow at the boy.

“Woah, you lied to mamma and got away with it?”

“No, I didn't get away with it, she put me in jail,” Audrey explained,

“Then how did you get here?”

“I escaped”

“WHAT! Mamma! I thought that no bad guy could escape you! How did you do it?!” The boy exclaimed, turning to his mother; Audrey laughed at his disbelief.

“Like this,” She turned her face to match the boy’s, he squealed with delight.

“That’s right, she pretended to be Travis, only I didn’t know.” Lieutenant Boulevard said.

“That’s awesome!” The boy said in awe.

“Ohhh, do me!” Cammie asked,

“Okay,” Audrey said as she complied. The child’s face lit up and she clapped her hands.

“Do you, do you, do you, want to see what I can do?” Jaxson asked.

“Jaxson, no!” The lieutenant commanded sharply, “you know the rules, not inside.”

“Just the hand thing?” he whined.

“No,”

“But.” His mother gave him a look.

“Yes mamma.” He said resigned.

“So then, what are you, Lieutenant?”

“A fire forger, and call me Lealiah,”

“Okay, Lealiah...can you get this off of me?” Audrey gestured to her bound foot.

“Unfortunately, I can’t, the king commanded it,”

“The king?”

“Yes, he-” there was a knock at the door.

“The king’s scholars.” The guard answered.

“Speaking of which," Lealiah remarked to her, "Enter,” the lieutenant said to the guard outside. Audrey stood as a group of people filed in. There was man who was half horse, a tall man with pointed ears, a short woman with scales and dragon wings, and a man with tall opaque wings.

“General Aplin,” the lieutenant said with a nod to the fairy. The old man with the pointed ears stepped forward.

“I am Scholar Gilford,” he spoke with a deep voice, “and you must be Audrey Rivers.” Audrey nodded her head, unsure where this was going.

“If you don’t mind, we would like you to answer some questions.”

“Of course,” she conceded,

“Remind me what your species is called.”

“Mimics,”

“Mimics, I see. And what are your abilities?”

“We can change our form to someone that we see.”

“Someone? Could it be an object?”

“It has to be alive,”

“Are plants and animals included?”

“Not plants, but some animals, it would depend on how different it looked to how difficult it would be.”

“Can you change your clothes?”

“Only the strongest can, and only for a short time.”

“I see, and how many of you are there?”

“I know of about a thousand.”

“A thousand? Are you all together?”

“No, most of us are nomadic... but...” She stopped, her heart racing in her chest, she struggled to keep a neutral expression. She began to hope, hope that she wasn’t about to doom her race, that she wasn’t making a mistake in trusting these strange people. Hope that her people might be safe. Besides, the lieutenant had told her so, she just wished for to gather more information, but she was running out of time. For every minute that she spent away was another chance for her brethren to fall. It was time to tell the truth. “But there is a coalition.” Audrey finally said after a long moment. There was no going back now.

“A coalition?” the scholar echoed

“Yes, most mimics are connected to them somehow. It’s in place to protect us.”

“Protect you from what?”

“Whatever threatens us, which right now is hunters.”

“Hunters?” The scholar repeated, a habit Audrey found quickly becoming annoying.

“Yes, they hunt us down for our blood, because they think it’ll get them somethin’ cause of the color.”

“And remind me of what that color is.”

“It’s a silver hue.” The scholar’s quill danced across the parchment, marking everything that she said, she was sure.

“I see, and why not just disguise yourselves all the time then, if you are being hunted?” Audrey dug her nails into the palm of her hand, “Cause, we can’t hide our smell. They trained their huntin’ dogs to find us. Then they drain our blood, and take it for their own gain,” she said angrily, her hands becoming fists at her side.

“It’s why I’m here.” She took in a deep breath, and pinched herself for good luck, “I am a member of the Coalition, and I was sent to figure out if this place is the magical sanctuary it’s said to be.”

“It is.” All eyes turned to General Aplin as he suddenly spoke. His bright blue eyes met hers. “I can promise you, here you will never be hunted for what you are.” He indicated to his wings, “My people are safe here, and I am sure that yours can be too. We can bring them here; that’s what this island is for.” Audrey felt her heart beat faster than she thought possible, while she felt the wight on her shoulders lift. She had done it, she hoped, her people would be okay! She used her magic so no one could tell that tears were building in her eyes.

“Thank you.” She managed. She straightened up, looking around the room with the strangest assortment of creatures she had ever seen. She smiled. “When can we get started?”

She headed towards the medical center to question Travis. The room was lined with about a dozen beds, only about half of them filled. She looked around for Travis. Not seeing him she called the doctor over.

“I had one of my men sent here a little while ago, where is he?”

“Second bed to the...” He indicated to an empty bed. He called one of his underlings over.

“Where did that man go?” The employee looked around, “I-he-he was right there just a minute ago!” The lieutenant rubbed her temples,

“How do you lose an unconscious man?” The doctor was asking shaking his hands violently at the man. The flabbergasted employee could only shrug.

“Great, another person missing,” Lealiah muttered to herself. She instructed the doctors to keep her updated, then went to inform the general. She walked down the same hallway that the prisoner had been taken down just yesterday, wracking her brain for an explanation, and debating her next move. Suddenly, on the brick corner, something glinted in the torchlight.

“What?” She whispered, drawing closer to inspect it. It looked like dried, liquid, silver. She touched it, and part of it flaked away and fell to the ground. Her heart skipped a beat. Blood, it had to be. This was where the woman had cut herself on the wall. This was why she jumped back so quickly. To confirm she called Officer Lark, the vampire who had alerted her earlier.

“Yes, it’s hers, and it’s blood.” The man confirmed after getting the scent.

“What species has silver blood?” Lealiah asked.

“None that I know of ma’m,”

“Thank you,” She thought for a moment, “Gather the head scholar from the library and have him inspect it, just to be sure.” she commanded, then finally went to update the general.

“General Aplin?” he waved her in unnecessarily,

“Any good news?” She shook her head,

“Just gets worse, my officer, the one that we found in the prisoner’s cell, he is not in the medical center. No one knows where he went. And we found the prisoner’s blood on one of the bricks.” the general furrowed his brow, “We were still unable to identify the girl’s species, but the blood is silver. Which...” She took a breath, “Which I have never seen before.” She waited patiently for his response. The lines on his face grew more defined as his furrow deepened and he began to shew on his bottom lip. Finally, he spoke.

“When the blood hounds get here, find the girl, as well as the kids... do you think she is involved with the kidnappings?”

“Potentially, but I would like to interview some of the others who came off board with her again, if I remember correctly, she had at least one friend.”

“Good, find her, question her, and find those kids.” he commanded,

“I’m doing my best sir,” she replied

“aren’t we all?” he mused as she walked out the door.

Lealiah looked up as there was a knock at her office door.

“Enter.” One of her senior officers came in with a young blond-haired woman.

“Constance Lace, as requested ma'am,” he said, standing at attention.

“Did she give you any trouble?” The lieutenant asked with raised brows.

“No ma'am.”

“Good. Have a seat miss.,” she said, indicating to the chair across from her. The young woman complied. Lealiah thanked and dismissed her officer, then spoke.

“I know that you were questioned yesterday, so I will only take a little bit of your time.”

“What is all the commotion about?” Ms. Lace asked in a high, delicate voice.

“Miss, we just need some information from you about your friend, Ms. Audrey Rivers. What can you tell us about her?”

“Audrey?” the young woman sat up straighter, “Is she in trouble?”

“I am not at liberty to say,” the lieutenant said, “but I need you to tell me everything that you know about her.”

“We met on the St. Andress, so I have only known her a short time.” The lieutenant stared, waiting.

“What... do you need to know?” the lady finally said, breaking the awkwardness that has settled on the room.

“Let’s start with who she would talk to, who were her friends?”

“She was kind to everyone, but really only friends with me.”

“Did she talk excessively with anyone else?” the lady shook her head.

“Sometimes another girl would join us, Nancy, no one else really.” Lealiah nodded, writing down the name on her parchment.

“Thank you,” she paused to gather her thoughts, “did she have any odd habits or behaviors?”

“I can only think of one time, when I offered for her to stay in my quarters at night, she politely refused, which I thought it perhaps a cultural habit” Lealiah marked that down quickly,

“I see... And what culture is that, where exactly is she from?”

“I do not think that I asked.”

“Did she say anything else about her culture?”

“She said that her people were mostly nomadic, hence why she travels so much, and that they travel in small groups.”

“Anything about her family?”

“I inquired once, but she said that she did not want to talk about it.”

“That’s fine” the lieutenant wrote down every bit of information she could, then turned her attention back to the young woman.

“Is there anything, any small detail about her that you think might help? Likes, dislikes, fears, and affections.” she stressed.

“She plays the lute, likes to drink tea, she’s...” Ms. Lace took a moment to think, “She’s afraid of dogs, likes traveling, and is a very good story teller.” Lealiah nodded,

“Thank you, every little bit helps,” she told the young woman, she just needed a bit more information. “I know this is going to be an odd question, but please just answer,” Ms. Lace gave a small nod, “was there ever a time that she was any other color?” The shock on the lady’s face was instant. Holding up her finger to hold off questions, “Just answer the question,” Lealiah instructed, the woman nodded again, her eyes flicking to the right before she answered.

“Other than the time that she became seasick, or perhaps it was from the fish, as several people were sick that night.” the lady made a disgusted face as she recalled the incident.

“What color was she?”

“Green and bits of silver, or grey, it was hard to tell due to the fact that she was leaning against the rails.”

“Silver? Where?”

“On-on... her face...why?”

“What happened after that?” she said, ignoring her question,

“She slept it off in her quarters, I went to check on her, but she refused me every time. Now what does that have to do with her?” The lieutenant gave her a long look, leaned forward, then sat up straight, folding her hands in front of her,

“You are dismissed Miss Lace, we will call upon you if we have any further questions.” She said coldly, nodding to one of her guards to take the lady away. After a moment she got up to see if the scholar had arrived yet from across town, and saw Travis walking in to the building, a few minutes late for his shift.

“WHERE IN THE GOOD LORD’S NAME HAVE YOU BEEN!?” She shouted. Travis stared at her, shocked,

“I’m just a few minutes late ma’am,” he said with a cock of his head.

“No! I mean where did you go last night?” the lieutenant said, enunciating each word.

“After my shift? I went home, ask my wife.” he put his hands up in defense. Taking a deep breath, Lealiah regarded her officer.

“Travis,” She said more calmly, “I’m putting you on desk duty for today,” he opened his mouth to protest,

“I don’t care, okay, there’s something big going on, and you are staying here until I figure it out.” She drummed her fingers against each other, then decided to fill him in. He stood there in shock as she briefly explained his disappearance.

“I promise you, ma’am, I went home,” He said after she was done, “I didn’t leave until my shift this morning.”

“I’m going to send Angela to check your story, and until then, you are to stay on desk duty.” She said, snapping her fingers at Angela. The fairy nodded and left at once.

“Yes ma’am,” he said, as she turned away, she caught him grumbling about his task. Lealiah shook her head, a theory developing. Ms. Rivers did not seem to be involved with the disappearances, but there was still a potential unknown species, and their only lead is currently on the run. The sound of dogs barking cut through her thoughts, Lucille had arrived with her hounds.

“Lucille,” she said as the dragon trainer entered, flanked by a single guard.

“General Aplin says you have some missing kids,” she said, skipping any pleasantries.

“That’s right, and some suspects as well. We’ll have you start with a group to find the kids, and I will need a separate group to find a missing prisoner,”

“Seems like you have your hands full today,” the trainer remarked. “I cannot go with both, do you have anyone Particularly skilled with hounds, or animals?” she asked. Lealiah considered her options.

“There’s a few that come to mind, I-”

“Michal,” said the guard from behind Lucille.

“Your brother? Are you sure?”

“Yeah, I’m sure, I once watched him train our goat back on the farm when he was twelve, he can do it,” The young man proudly explained.

“Michal it is then, you may go with him. Take Caius and Mart as well, and listen,” The man met her gaze, “You have to stick together, all four of you, no one is to leave one another’s sigh for even a moment,”

“Yes, ma’am,” he said with a salute. He hurried off to his brother’s station,

“Hey, Mike, you want to go play with dogs?” he shouted on his way out. Lealiah watched him go,

“Lieutenant.” Lucille stated, “I have a yearling with me as well, she’s smart but inexperienced.”

“Thank you for the information. You’re dismissed.” Lucille nodded and went back outside to her dogs. The hunt was on.

A few hours later, she received an update; Michal and his team had found a blood trail for the prisoner. They were heading towards the south side. She sent the carrier pigeon back, reminding them to find her, but not engage if possible. As she sent the first bird away, a second one fluttered in, this one from Lucille. She ran to the general’s office,

“Sir, we found the kids,”

General Aplin stood up and dashed out of the room, almost hitting his desk in his rush.

“Where?”

“Divit’s old house, the one that burned down.”

“Then there’s not a moment to lose. Assemble three teams, you lead one, Ivo can lead the second, I will get the third.” His Lieutenant nodded, her face glowing, small cracks of light breaking through her face.

“It’s time for a raid.”

Lieutenant Lealiah Boulevard watched carefully as the humans all docked into the port, carefully profiling each of them. A large man tripped off the gangplank, and the lieutenant gently stopped the line until the man could stumble away and get his land legs back. She noticed one of the few women coming down off the ship. Her black dress contrasted her fading white corset, and sitting boldly on her head was a faded purple, felt sun hat. Her brown hair matched her watchful eyes, and she carried a lute on her back. The ship captain, Captain Richards, made his way down.

“Did you make it all right, no trouble?” Lealiah inquired, Captain Richards shook his head.

“No trouble, clear skies this trip. And no pirates too,”

“That’s good to hear, sir,” she said with a wave. Good business to know all the frequent captains, and Richards was a good captain, and a good man.

“How are the kids?” He asked,

“They’re doing just fine. Thanks for asking, Jaxson just turned 8 and now he thinks he’s the boss of everybody, but other than that they are great,” She replied with a smile. “How’s your wife?” Richards smiled

“She’s got number three on the way!”

“Oh, congratulations!” She said in a bright tone. “God bless that woman’s soul!”

“Thank you,” he replied as he disembarked. They then headed their own way.

“Shooo’ that’s a lota silver fir just a bit,” Audrey Rivers complained to the merchant, but handed over the coins, getting a dish full of sweet smells. “It better be as good as you says,” she said as she walked away. Finding a nearby barrel she settled down to eat her food. Though tired from the journey over, it had been a good first day, she had made her way to an inn and managed to play a show on night one, and made good revenue for it. It was like most places, at least near the docks. She had yet to see what she had come for, but it still seemed like a lovely place. And, oh, the food is good. The unidentifiable dish before her was tangy and rich, with a little bit of spice to it, and the meat had a smokey taste. Audrey took in the bustling street around her, a dark-skinned woman with short, curly black hair sat down on the barrel beside her. In the woman’s hand was a spear.

“How are you liking it here so far?” she asked casually.

“It’s a lovely place, with some great food.” Audrey answered, indicated to her meal.

“That’s good,” the woman replied, “I’m Lieutenant Boulevard,” the woman said.

“Pleased ta meet you,” Audrey replied.

“Now, I don’t mean to ruffle your feathers, but I am going to need you to come with me, it will only be for a little while, then you can get back to whatever you’re doing,” the lieutenant said casually.

“I don’t think I did anythin’ wrong, did I?” she asked nonchalantly.

“We’ll see... you can finish your meal first though, just let me know when you’re ready to go,” Audrey spooned the last of her food in her mouth.

“We can go,” she said as she stood up. The lieutenant led her to a building where there were already people gathered, all who were on the ship that she came in.

“Constance!” Audrey smiled across the room as she saw her friend.

“Do you know what this is all about?” Constance inquired in her dainty voice.

“I sure don’t, maybe somethin’ is wrong with the ship, or somethin’s missin’ from it,” she speculated. They waited for a while, talking about what they had already seen that day, until the very short woman with the paper walked in again,

“Audrey Rivers?” She called. Audrey was led down the hall into a room with the lieutenant that she had met a little while before. Lieutenant Boulevard was holding a quill and had a paper before her. In the corner was a tall guard, whose face was obscured by the dark.

“I just have a few questions for you.”

The woman before her spoke with a sweet and drawling accent. Her purple hat made her easily identified.

“Ms. Rivers, what is the purpose of your stay here?”

“I’m a traveling musician, and here seemed a good a place as any.”

“Is there any other reason you would be here?”

“Other than I like to travel, I s’pose.”

“And where all have you been since you disembarked?”

“I guess da inn, and the market place is all I've managed ta see.”

“Thank you, which inn was it?” The lieutenant asked.

“I think it t’was called the Yellow Star. It t’was the one on the eastern side of town, nearest the docks,”

“Okay,” Lealiah copied Ms. River’s whereabout on her paper “Is there anyone to confirm your whereabouts?”

“The innkeeper, and anyone else who was there. Why you are you asking me these things? If you’s allowed ta say.” The girl before her said. The lieutenant paused,

“There’s been a few kids who have gone missing, and the St. Andress was the only one to disembark yesterday,” she answered.

“Well I can promise you, I never would touch young‘uns, I hope that you find them.”

“I really hope so,” Leahliah said ruefully. Suddenly, the guard in the corner walked over to Lealiah and whispered in her ear. She glanced back at the young woman before her, taking a long look.

“One more question before you go... Are you human?” the lieutenant asked carefully, leaning her arms on the table.

“Course I am,” the woman answered quickly... Too quickly.

“Course you are, of course you are,” The lieutenant echoed. “Lock her up,” she suddenly commanded.

“What?! What did I do? I told ya I would never touch them young‘uns!” the woman said hysterically.

“But you lied to an officer, I would like to know why,” the lieutenant stated plainly.

“But- I am human,” she cried, her eyes casting around for help. The guard from the corner grabbed her wrists, she did not resist. As the guard led her away, he turned too quickly for her around a corner, and her arm knocked harshly on the rough brick wall. The young woman recoiled suddenly causing the young soldier to point his spear towards her. She straightened and he led her away, her shoulders tense, and hands clenched tightly behind her back.

Audrey sat in her cell, rubbing the small cut on her arm. Carefully watching the guards, she waited for the exchange. There were only a few other prisoners in the cells beside her, but no one spoke to her. Finally, the new watch came in, it was time to make her move.

Lealiah poured over the city map as one of the new recruits was bringing a tray to their prisoner. She traced her finger along on of the roads.

“One of the abandoned buildings...”

“Um... Lieutenant?” the concerned recruit said, interrupting her thoughts.

“Yes?”

“We have a problem with the prisoner,”

“What problem?” She hissed as she rushed over to the cell,

“That’s not the prisoner,” said the recruit, pointing into the cell.

“Travis!?” She yelled at her guard. The large dwarf did not stir in the cell. She opened up the door, which was locked, and felt his pulse. It was there, and it was faster than it should have been, but he was alive.

“I thought that he went home after his shift was over,”

“Yeah, I thought so too...”

“Your order, sir?” The rookie officer asked,

“Get Travis to the medical center, I have to go meet with the general,” She said with a sigh, “and I have to set an alert, we have a prisoner on the loose.”

Lieutenant Boulevard rushed to the general’s office.

“General?” She burst within without knocking.

“What’s the problem?”

“As you know, the seven children from the orphanage are still missing, we now have our suspects. There are four men missing from the St. Andress. They are the prime suspects, and we are doing everything in our power to find them.” The general nodded.

“I have called Lucille to bring some blood hounds over so we can track them,” he informed her.

“There’s one more thing general,” she added,

“What?”

“Our prisoner escaped.”

“Great,” The general sighed, he tapped his foot, pausing for a long moment, pondering his next words, “When Lucille gets here, have one of her blood hounds go and find the prisoner.”

“Yes, sir.”

Tori dashed into the car, leaping through the passenger seat and into the driver's. Her brother got in beside her, Bethany and Carrie close behind. She jammed the keys into the ignition and started the car as the first wave of zombies began to draw closer.

"Let's Go!" her brother, Camren, shouted. She tried to press the gas, but her feet couldn't reach the pedals. She was the only one left who knew how to drive.

"Come on!"Bethany squealed, glacing back at the approching horde and clutching her sister closer.

"I'm trying!" She said. After a few seconds of searching she found the lever and pushed it. Slowly, inch by inch, it moved her foward.

"Tori," her brother said with a warning in his voice, she didn't dare look back.

"What are we waiting for?" said terrfied little Carrie. "Beth, I'm scared," Tor heard her whisper,

"I-I-I can't reach the pedals yet," She tried to explain, her arms beginging to shake. She screamed as the first zombie began to hit the back window, she didn't know how long it would hold,

"Come on, come on," She muttered, until, finally, her feet were able to touch the pedal. She slammed on the gas as hard as she could and tore away from the zombies.

After driving for several miles, Camren broke the silence,

"I guess I have to learn how to drive now,"

"But I can drive," Tori protested,

"Yeah, but, like, you're too short, you can't even see the whole road like that,"

"Yes I can," She snapped,

"Maybe, but you drive like a little old lady,"

"Do not!" She said, but she was struggling to keep the scowl on her face.

Diamonds are made with pressure,

Gold is made with heat

metal shaped with hammers

and paths worn with feet.

Progress is made with practice

Peace is made with war

coffee is made with grounds

and muscles get strong with sores

Patience is made with time

growth made through pain

strides are made with stress

and hard work makes gains

Diamonds are made with pressure

So keep the end in sight

Remember your reasons why

and put up a fight!

I can't stop

It's way too late

I can't stop

love, joy, and hate

I can't stop

I need to know more

I can't stop

I didn't know that before

I can't stop

Someone please shake me

I can't stop

Someone please wake me

I can't stop

I do not think

I can't stop

while I continually sink

I can't stop

must find what I sought

I can't stop

before I lose my thoughts

I can't stop

I'm lost in my head

I can't stop

my brain may soon be dead

I can't stop

I can't stop

I can't...

I...

...

I'm a little puzzle piece

A little link in the chain

a single bit of string

a single drop of rain

I'm a little puzzle piece

helping where I can

doing much with

each woman and each man

I'm a little puzzle piece

as the picture comes together

hoping we can change the world

or make it a little better

I'm a little puzzle piece

just like many others

painting a pretty picture

for our sisters and brothers

I'm a little puzzle piece

I'm ready to assist

It's no problem really

I truly do insist

I'm a little puzzle piece

doing what I know

you don't always see me

just the grand old show

I'm a little puzzle piece

I'm glad to be of service

I don't need my name shouted

I don't need it in a circus

I'm a little puzzle piece

just like you are

when we do what we know

we can make it far

I'm a little puzzle piece

one part of many

shout out to those others

who serve us daily

I'm a little puzzle piece

I know that it's true

and to all those other pieces

Thank you

She stood surveying the battlefield. The sky was as red as the ground below. She knew that it had to be her, she had to be the one who would fight the other side. They had a mysterious fighter, someone who had taken the lives of many on their side. They had a dragon with them. Her cousin had volunteered, but how could she let her fight, knowing that her cousin might not survive, knowing that her cousin had a young daughter. No one else could do it, only she could. And she finally might be able to find out who this monster was.

Suddenly she heard it, the flap of dragon wings, deafening in her ear. It was time. Slowly, the figure rose from the other side of the plain and gradually approached. The dragon landed nearby, and a figure approached her slowly. She readied herself for the fight... until she saw his face.

"No," she breathed, it couldn't be! Not her brother, anyone but he! She waited but knew what she had to do. They fought. She manged to get him on the ground and tore off his helmet and his armor. Then she took her knife and stabbed him. But he didn't die. Again and again, she stabbed him, tears streaming down her face. Cut after cut was made until his flesh become spongy and deteriorated. Finally, what was left of her brother stopped moving, and she sat down in the blood and sobbed.

This was a dream I had when I was 14 or 15, and it bugged me for the entire day afterward. I love my brother and we get along great, so this one hit hard. I have had other dreams, dreams where my entire family dies, but I was never the one doing it.

DIFFERENT NIGHTMARE:

Everything was on fire, again. This dream had happened several times over. Sometimes her family made it out, sometimes they didn't, and sometimes she was trapped beneath the flames. But it was always a dream...

Until the fire alarms went off.

(Turns out the alarms were just broken, and there was no real fire, but it took us a while to figure it out.)