Now and Then, Here and There Fanfic

[mastertae]

Here's a fanfic I made. It's not as clean as I would like since I concentrate more on the novel I'm writting, but I hope you enjoy. : )

Now and Then, Here and There: Ebb and Flow
Based on an Anime written by Akitaro Daichi

“Because Ten Billion Years’ Time is so fragile, so ephemeral…
It arouses such a bittersweet, almost heartbreaking fondness.”
Opening to Now and Then, Here and There

Chapter 1: Yesterday is Today

“If you could go back in time and change the mistakes of the past or if you could change an unbearable future, would you...Could you…Where would the line be drawn and would it be morally right?”

Even though days passed while Shu was imprisoned in his time only a day has passed. It seem almost like a dream, but the horrors he saw yesterday were all too real. The scars on Shu’s back were evidence that everything that happened was not a dream. His torture, the scenes of death, and Sara’s rape would never leave his memories. A tear slowly rolled down his cheek. Shu touched a scar on his shoulder. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. He knew he could never let his father see his scars. Shu knew that too many questions would come up and he had no logical explantion to give his father. Shu quickly went and took a hot shower. The water felt soothing to his aching body. Shu grabbed a white t-shirt, jeans, and his jean jacket, which had a tear at the shoulder where a bullet had grazed the jacket. Shu carefully looked into a mirror to make sure that there were no scars visible and then went downstairs for breakfast.
Shu’s father was sitting at the table and reading a newspaper. His sister was finishing up her noodles and his mother was preparing another dish for Shu. Shu suddenly got a sense of déjà vu. Shu quickly sat down and began to eat his ramen noodles.

“Who are Sara and Lala Ru? His sister quickly asked.

Shu looked at his sister. His face became pale and his eyes became shallower as memories began flooding in his mind. His sister had never seen his brother so withdrawn before.

As she got up she gave him a hug she whispered in his ear “It’s okay if you don’t want to tell me.”

She quickly climbed the stairs and was out of sight.

Shu looked at his father and said, “I must have been talking in my sleep again.”

His father put down his newspaper and smiled as Shu got up and hugged his mom. He quickly grabbed his Kendo equipment and ran out of the shop. In the background he could hear his mother yelling for him to slow down.

As Shu started towards his Kendo class he noticed that no one was moving. Shu stopped and stared at a woman who was walking her dog, but neither of them appeared to be moving. The dog and woman appeared to be frozen in a walk-like stance. Shu walked over to the woman and poked her on the arm. Shu quickly realized what was happening. Time had completely stopped, just like before when Shu had first met Lala Ru. Shu could not believe that it was happening again. Shu fell to his knees. Tears streamed down his face like rivers flowing down a mountain. Then something else began to happen. Shu could feel his heart skip a beat. The woman and the dog appeared to be walking backwards. It was not only the woman and the dog walking backwards, but everything was moving backwards. Soon everything began to move backwards at an extremely fast pace. Everything was moving at such a fast pace now that everything looked like a blur. Shu began to feel dizzy and passed out.

Shu awoke from passing out. To his surprise he found himself sitting on a smokestack. Shu immediately recognized the smoke stack he sat on when he first met Lala Ru. Shu looked at the other smokestacks that were surrounding him. Shu was astonished to see Lala Ru sitting on one of the smokestacks. It did not take long for Shu to realize that time had reverted back to the time when he first met Lala Ru. Yesterday was again his today. The same events were repeating themselves. Shu did not understand what was happening, but for the first time he did not care. Shu looked over at Lala Ru and smiled. To his surprise the normally stoical Lala Ru smiled back.

Shu was surprised again when Lala Ru called his name and said “Shu it’s different this time. The sunset is different.” Shu stared up at the sunset. He smiled when he realized that Lala Ru still had her memories. The sunset was different. It was bigger and more beautiful then the last time. Shu began to wonder if he had dreamt everything. His thoughts were quickly interrupted by Lala Ru.

Lala Ru looked at Shu with her deep blue eyes and softly said “It wasn’t a dream.” With those word the cars and people in the streets below ceased to move. They were frozen in time.

It was not long that the peaceful scenery of the sunset became violent as a large snake-like vehicle jumped out of nowhere. Shu quickly recognized the snake-like vehicle as being to one that attacked her the last time. Without a second thought he jumped off the smokestack towards the mechanized snake. Shu reached out his and managed to grab a hold of one of the pincher-like attachments protruding from the head. When he thought about it the machine actually looked more like a centipede then a snake, but Shu quickly shook the thought away and climbed onto the head. Shu was surprised to see a young girl in the cockpit of the machine. Not wanting to hit a woman Shu hit the controls with his shinai, which he had instinctively grabbed. In the background he could hear a voice giving out commands. Lala Ru stood next to a female soldier who wore some sort of mechanized armor. To Shu’s horror he also saw Hamdo towering over Lala Ru. Shu grit his teeth as he swore to himself that things would be different.

Shu leaped from the mechanized snake and reached out his hand towards Lala Ru. Hamdo grinned as he lifted a remote-like device and pressed a button. Time seemed to be at a stand still for a few seconds, the Shu felt a hard jerk and had a feeling he was falling through a hole. As he was falling he felt an object touch his hand. It was Lala Ru’s pendant. Some how the pendant had fallen off of Lala Ru. Shu quickly grasped the pendant. Soon the time warp was complete. Shu found himself falling toward a metallic floor. After landing Shu quickly evaded the other debris falling around him. Shu stood there in bewilderment as he watched Hamdo and three small girls with rifles escorting Lala Ru away. Shu did not understand why the soldiers were young girls. Things were definitely different, but Shu did not have time to stand around. He quickly ran towards Lala Ru and grabbed her hand.

Lala Ru and Shu began to run at a fast pace, but there were more girl soldiers in hot pursuit. Shu looked back once more and seemed to be gaining distance from their pursuers, but when he turned a corner he found himself face to face with another girl soldier. Unable to stop in time Shu found himself stumbling forward and losing the pendant in the process. The girl soldier had short brown hair and blue eyes. Her face was stern and angry as she held the rifle to Shu’s head. Her hand was visibly shaking. It was not long before Hamdo and the other girl soldiers managed to catch up. Quickly the other girl soldiers had their rifles drawn and pointed them towards Shu. Hamdo went over and kicked Shu in the face. Shu could taste the saltiness of blood in his mouth.

“Take Lala Ru to the queen!” Hamdo barked at the small girls.

The girl looked at Hamdo and spoke in a firm voice “What about the boy?”

Hamdo gave Shu another kick. Hamdo then commanded the girl to “Take him to the cell with the other prisoner.”

Shu felt himself being led across what seemed to be some sort of bridge. He looked down and could see what appeared to be large cylinders. It was not long before he found himself in a cell. The girl hit Shu with the butt of her rifle. Shu fell to his knees and hit the floor.

Shu heard the clang of the cell door close. Shu quickly sat up. Looking around he saw a girl with long blonde hair and blue eyes sitting in the corner. Shu quickly smiled when he realized it was Sara. Shu quickly called out Sara’s name, but she eyed him suspiciously. Not thinking Shu grasped Sara’s hand. In a panic Sara hit Shu with a metal bowl that was on the floor knocking Shu unconsious. Within a few minutes Shu regained consiousness and felt a cloth touching his head. Shu quickly sat up and ignored the sharp pain on his head. Sara looked away from Shu.

“How did you know my name?” Sara asked without looking up. Shu looked away from Sara as he did not want her to see the tears that began to fall from his face. Shu slowly told Sara everything that happened before time reverted backwards.

Shu explained his torture, how little children where forced to do unspeakable acts of murder and other war atrocities, and he told Sara about her rape and pregnancy and how she chose to live in this world instead of going home. Then he told her that on his world a day had passed, but for some reason time had reverted backwards and how some events where different.

Shu looked at Sara and wiped his tears and optimistically stated that “This time will be different! I won’t let you be hurt again.”

Sara looked at Shu as if he had gone insane. “How do I know you’re telling the truth? How can I believe such a story!?”

Sara took a step back as Shu began to remove his shirt. Sara was horrified to see scars lining his back like vines going up a tree. This was the first time Shu had showed anyone his scars.

“This time things will be different! I was given another chance. I won’t let anyone hurt you and this time I don’t want to see anyone die!” Shu stood up and looked at Sara. He never realized how pretty Sara was until now. “As long as we have life then good things can happen. Sara I promise that we’ll both get out of this place!”

Sara let out a slight smile.

[mastertae]

Chapter 2: Indominable Spirit

“Pandora opened the forbidden box. She watched in horror as all the evils of the world flew out into the world. Quickly she went and closed the box, but all that remained was hope.”

Meanwhile Hamdo was taking Lala Ru to another part of the ship. Lala Ru passed what appeared to be a nursery full of small babies. In another room they passed she could see young girls and women being injected with a needle and tested with other machines. In another room she saw young boys being stripped of their clothes. The boys appeared to be preteens of eleven to thirteen. Lala Ru recognized one of the boys as Nabuca. She turned away when he looked up at her. Lala Ru whispered Shu’s name under her breath. It was not long before Hamdo led her into a room.

The room had a single bed draped with pink silk. The room had various flowers and plants. Sitting on the bed was a woman in military clothing. Lala Ru immediately recognized her as Abelia, who was one of Hamdo’s commanders before time reverted back.

Hamdo bowed as he spoke “Queen Abelia I have Lala Ru, but the pendant wasn’t on her.”

Abelia walked over to Lala Ru and back slapped her. Lala Ru fell to the floor. Abelia motioned for Hamdo to leave the room. Hamdo bowed and quietly left the room. Lala Ru stood up and kept her usual composure. Abelia looked at Lala Ru with a distasteful expression of angst. Abelia grabbed Lala Ru.

“Where’s the pendant!” Abelia asked as she slapped Lala Ru on the cheek. Lala Ru stared at Abelia. Tears were clearly falling from Abelia’s eyes.

“All I wanted was a better world!” Abelia proclaimed. Abelia stood back onto her feet trying to regain her composure, but she was clearly agitated.

“Do you enjoy hitting small children?” Lala Ru asked as she walked towards Abelia. Abelia stared at Lala Ru in disgust.

“Don’t condescend me girl. You don’t know what I went through to get to the top! You’re not human! How could you ever know how I feel!” Abelia screamed as she again slapped Lala Ru in the face. Lala Ru lowered her head.

“Hamdo! Take Lala Ru to her quarters and bring the boy in here for questioning!”Abelia screamed as she went back to the bed at sat down.
Within a few minutes Abelia could hear Lala Ru being escorted to her room.

“Have I always been a monster?” whispered Abelia to herself.

Within a few minutes Abelia could hear foot steps of Hamdo and the boy. She sat up and regained her composure.

“Queen Abelia, Here’s the boy as that was with Lala Ru.” Hamdo said as he forced Shu through the door. Abelia waved for Hamdo to leave the room. Hamdo quietly left the room. Shu was surprised to see Abelia as the queen of Helywood.

“I’ll ask you the same thing I asked Lala Ru. Where’s the pendant.”

Shu looked Abelia in the eyes as he calmly stated “I don’t know.” Abelia went over and punched Shu in the face. Shu felt blood gush from his mouth as a tooth was knocked loose.

“Why? Why are you doing this?” Shu asked as he received another blow. Shu looked up and saw tears flowing from Abelia’s face.

“If it hurts you to hit me why do you do it then? A bad person doesn’t cry.” Shu asked. Expecting to be hit Shu winced, but nothing came. When he looked he saw that Abelia had fallen to her knees and crying.

“Hamdo!, Take the boy to be interrogated and use what ever means to get that pendant!” Hamdo quickly came in and grabbed Shu.

“Hamdo, don’t kill him.” Abelia ordered Hamdo as he and Shu were going out the door.

Shu had reached Abelia’s quarters from the opposite direction then from where Lala Ru had been escorted, but as he was being sent to the interrogation room Shu’s eyes widened with horror as he saw the same scenes of horror that Lala Ru had seen previously. In one room he clearly saw what appeard to be scientists and doctors stripping young boys naked. As they kept walking he would see young who appeared to be getting some sort of shot. It wasn’t long before he saw the nursery. Shu could not look anymore and quickly turned his head.

“What are those labs for?” Shu asked as they finally came to a stop at a door.

Hamdo smiled a crooked smile as he spoke “You’ll find out eventually.”

Hamdo forced Shu into the room. The room was small and dark. A single chair was in the middle of the room and a table with various devices was against the wall. There was a man in a white apron in the room.

“It must be the man that does the torture.” Shu thought to himself.
Shu was forced into the chair and bound by metal chains. The chains were clearly meant to allow an electric current through as there were wires attached to them. Hamdo’s eyes began to bulge and his smile grew large as the interrogations started.

Hamdo asked the same question over and over again and no matter how many times Shu stated that he lost the pendant he always received a shock. Soon the shocks became beatings and cuts. He could even feel needles being poked through his fingernails. Seconds felt like minutes, minutes felt like hours, and hours felt like days to Shu as he endured painful torture for an untold amount of time. Shu could hear Hamdo laughing.

“Having fun?” Shu cockily asked. Shu felt a blunt object hit him on his head and everything went dark. Hamdo looked down at the unconscious Shu as he spoke in to his walkie-talke.

“The boy lost consciousness. Do you want me to continue with the interrogation tomorrow?”

There was a garbled reply through the walkie-talkie by Abelia. “No, take him back to his cell. I don’t think he knows where the pendant is.”

Shu managed to regain some of his consciousness as he was forced to get on his feet by two girl guards. It felt like forever as he was finally taken to his cell. One of the girls hit him with the butt of her rifle, which caused Shu to fall hard in his cell. Everything was becoming hazy again. She saw Sara’s blue eyes as he felt her wiping the mixture of blood and sweat. He never realized how beautiful Sara’s eyes were until then.

“Sara…” Shu whispered as he finally collapsed.

[mastertae]

Chapter 3: The Great Awakening

“When I’ve fallen on my knees and tears are falling from my eyes why does no one hear my cries?”

Shu awoke from his sleep. His body ached all over. Clutched in his hand was Sara’s bandana, which she had used to wipe his sweat as he lay sleeping. He looked around and noticed that Sara was gone. Tears swelled up in his eyes. Shu heard foot steps in the distance. It was three armed girl guards.

“Where’s Sara!” Shu shouted at the top of his lungs. The oldest girl walked over to the cell. She had blonde hair and blue eyes like Sara’s. Shu noticed that the girl was pregnant.

“She’s in training to become a soldier of Helywood.” Said the girl. Shu looked at the girl and saw a tear roll from her eyes.

“What’s your names?” Shu asked the three soldiers.

The oldest soldier spoke for the other girls as she said “My name's Kame, the youngest Suzie, and the other one is Sarang.”

Kame began to open the cage. The girl was crying even more. “I’m sorry.” She whispered to Shu.

Shu soon found himself being led out of the cell and towards the same direction as the Abilia’s quarters, but when the passed the door that led to Abelia’s quarters Shu’s heart skipped a beat. The images of young preteens being stripped naked was fresh in his mind. Shu tried to struggle, but found himself being hit with the butt of a gun. Kame then forced Shu into the lab.
Shu looked around and could see the empty expressions on the other’s face. The doctors seemed to ignore a boy’s cry for help.

“Strip him down. Then check if he’s able to procreate.” One of the doctors stated.

Shu then felt various hands forcibly taking off his clothes. Shu felt helpless to do anything. Tears rolled down his cheek, but like the boy who screamed for help he got nothing in return. Shu soon felt himself being touched. He could hear the doctors stating that they needed more samples. More tears fell from his eyes, but again no one seemed to notice.

“Why?” Shu quietly asked himself. After the ordeal one of the doctors came and put his hand on Shu’s shoulder. Shu looked up unable to comprehend what just happened. The doctor fell to his knees and hugged Shu.

“I’m sorry,” the doctor whispered in Shu’s ear. The doctor stood up and motioned for Kame to take Shu away.

Kame took Shu to another cell located in another part of the fortress. Shu soon found himself around other male prisoners. Shu curled himself into a ball. The feeling of dirtiness would not leave him. Shu lifted his head and looked around. Most of the male prisoners were around his age.

Looking around Shu saw three familiar faces. A part of Shu was relieved when he recognized Nabuca, Boo, and Tabool even though he knew that in this time that they have not yet met.

“Things are different.” Shu whispered to himself.

Shu looked put his head on his knees, but then felt a hand on his shoulder. Shu quickly flinched and jumped to his feet ready to attack, but then he realized it was Nabuca. Nabuca looked at Shu and smiled. This was the first time he saw Nabuca smiling.

Nabuca greeted Shu and introduced him to his friends. “I’m Nabuca, the youngest one is Boo, and the other guy is Tabool.”

Shu looked in Nabuca’s eyes and could see the same sadness that he felt. Shu grasped Nabuca’s hand and smiled.

Shu smiled as he proclaimed,“I’m Shuzo Matsutani, but you can call me Shu.”

Meanwhile in a millitary barracks Sara found herself in a room with many bunkbeds. Sara had not slept in a bed in what felt like days. Sara looked around and saw many of the girls were in military uniforms. Some of the girls were visably pregnant. All the girls seemed to carry a gun. One of the girls walked over to Sara and extended her hand.

“I’m Kame.” Said the girl as she grasped Sara’s hand.
Sara looked at the girl confused. The girl had short blonde hair and blue eyes. She wore a green vest with a matching green skirt. Sara noticed a slight bulge on her stomach and realized that the girl was pregnant.

Sara replied, “I’m Sara.”

Two other girls walked over to Sara. The youngest girl looked to be about eight and she introduced here self as Suzie. Suzie had red hair and green eyes. Sara kindly smiled at the girl.

“I’m Sarang and I don’t shake hands.” The other girl bluntly replied.
Sara noticed that the girl was very pregnant and it appeared that she could give birth at any time. A tear fell from her eye.

“You have to forgive her. We’ve all been through a lot.” Kame replied with a sad expression on her face. Sara thoughts wandered off as she suddenly thought of Shu.

“What do they do with your babies after they’re born?” Sara asked.
Sarang eyes flashed into anger as she looked at Sara.

“This isn’t my baby! Don’t ever call this thing in me mine! I never asked for this!” Sarang angrily replied.

Kame went over and hugged Sarang. “You’ll have to forgive Sarang. Even though she she’s grown to hate her child I’ve grown to love mine. I mean the child didn’t have a say on how it would be born, but that’s how things are. There has to be sacrifices in order to see that Queen Abelia’s dream come true.” Kame replied as she continued to hug Sarang.

“How can you just accept things as how they are? This is wrong! Are you telling me you’re going to tell little Suzie to just accept it, because that’s how things are!” Sara replied.

Kame got up and walked over and slapped Sara. Sara looked at Kame in surprise. Kame who seemed so calm and cool headed had lost her temper. Sara could see the look of anguish in her eyes. All of a sudden there was a voice on the intercom.

“This is Hamdo and by the order of Queen Abelia everyone is to cease daily duties and is to search for a blue pendant. I repeat. Everyone is to cease daily activities and concentrate on searching for a blue pendant. The one who finds the pendant and returns it to me will be greatly rewarded. Thank you that is all.” Said Hamdo.

Sara watched as everyone began searching. They searched through vents, under beds, and in various other areas, but after hours of search the pendant still was not found. Soon everyone was told to go to sleep and continue the search tomorrow. Sara laid awake in her bunk. She thought of Shu and remembered his promise that everything would be okay in the end. She also remembered Shu’s story, especially about her becoming pregnant from being raped. Fear entered her heart. She didn’t want to end up like Kame or Sarang. Tears fell from her eyes. She buried her head in her pillow.
“Will I become like them?” She said to herself as she slowly fell asleep.
Sara began to dream. She dreamt of Shu. In the dream Shu was walking into the sun set like some hero from a movie. Shu stops and turns around. Sara can see his smile and can see his tears. Sara is soon awakened by Kame’s hand.

Kame spoke “It’s time to get up. I was ordered to take you to the lab today.” Tears were running down her face. Fear gripped Sara like hands wrapped around her throat.

“Come on. I was told to use force if I had to. Don’t make this any harder then it has to be.” Kame coldly replied.

Sara did as she was told. As they began to walk towards the lab Kame stopped.

Kame looked away as she said, “Tell the boy you were imprisoned with, when you see him again that I’m sorry about the other day and please don’t hate me.”

Sara looked at Kame with a puzzled and fearful expression. “What happened to Shu? Why does she apologize to me?”

It was not long before they walked by a room were they saw preteen boys around Shu’s age being stripped. Sara paused and stared in horror.

“Is this what you did to Shu!” Sara yelled at Kame.

Kame stared at Sara. “The doctors told me it’s necessary for invitro fertilisation. I was told that invitro fertilization was more reliable and cleaner, but no matter how hard I try to forget, the images remain. You’re right Sara. This shouldn’t be acceptable, but it’s the only way we’ll survive. Please don’t hate your future child. It deserves to be loved.”

They continued walking until they reached the other lab. Sara felt herself being pushed through the door. Sara felt one of the doctors grab her by the arm. Sara tried to run, but felt a blunt object hit her on the head. The next thing she knew she was bound onto some sort of medical chair. Without realizing it she called out Shu’s name.

One of the doctors walked over Sara. “I was told your name is Sara. Your data sheet says that you were brought to Helywood and imprisoned with a boy. I hope you both can forgive me then.” The doctor kindly told Sara.

Sara soon passed out and awoke in her bunk. Sara clenched her stomach with her hand.

“Was it a dream?” she asked herself.

[Jon]

See I'm a huge fan of Now and Then, Here and There, and I found this to be very entertaining. I loved how you reversed the roles of Hamdo and Abelia, and I loved how Shu knew what was happening early on.

Nice fanfic, just clean it up a little bit, there were a couple of grammatical errors. Other than that and maybe putting it into paragraphs for easier reading, a job well done.

[kiyomi]

yes..nicely done..but paragraphs would be nice so that the entire story just doesn't run together.

[mastertae]

Yes I haven't checked for any errors, but I noticed them. I also misspelled a few words and names. My Word grammar and spell check is not working so I have to do it the old fasion way. haha. I knew I should have added paragraphs, but I can honestly say I was being lazy : P

[mastertae]

I will go back though and try to fix it.

[mastertae]

okay I edited the 1st chapter

[Leader Desslock]

Check your grammar & formatting again. For example, the following solid block of text should look more like this:

...Quickly the other girl soldiers had their rifles drawn and pointed them towards Shu. Hamdo went over and kicked Shu in the face. Shu could taste the saltiness of blood in his mouth.

“Take Lala Ru to the queen!” Hamdo barked at the small girls.

The girl looked at Hamdo and spoke in a firm voice “What about the boy?”

Hamdo gave Shu another kick. Hamdo then commanded the girl to “Take him to the cell with the other prisoner.”

Shu felt himself being led across what seemed to be some sort of bridge...

If you look through your edited version, you've got a bit more to do.

I scanned through the story once, and it seemed interesting to me until the single-paragraph format caused me to blur out on the details. I look forward to reading it after it's cleaned up a bit, and I'll add it into the main index later this evening. Good job, though. :thumbsup:

Question: Should I use the 1st chapter title as the title of the whole work, or does it have a separate title? Just curious. I can also list it as "untitled" if you'd prefer.

[mastertae]

Well I have not given it an actual name. The anime is titled "Now and Then, Here and There", but I have not actually given a name to the Story. I wrote the title as "Now and Then, Here and There: Yesterday is Today", but I plan on changing the title to "Now and Then, Here and There:Ebb and Flow" Thanks for the advice. You want me to try to separate the quotes a bit more to make them more readable?

[Leader Desslock]

^ It's not a question of what I want. It's more a question of "do you want your work to be readable?" If so, you need to follow the rules of English grammar regarding dialogue.

Some rules are here: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/marks/quotation.htm

...special attention should be given to the following passage...


When an attribution of speech comes in the middle of quoted language, set it apart as you would any parenthetical element:

"I don't care," she said, "what you think about it."

Be careful, though, to begin a new sentence after the attribution if sense calls for it:

"I don't care," she said. "What do you think?"

Convention normally insists that a new paragraph begins with each change of speaker:

"I don't care what you think anymore," she said, jauntily tossing back her hair and looking askance at Edward.
"What do you mean?" he replied.
"What do you mean, 'What do I mean?'" Alberta sniffed. She was becoming impatient and wished that she were elsewhere.
"You know darn well what I mean!" Edward huffed.
"Have it your way," Alberta added, "if that's how you feel."

In proofreading and editing your writing, remember that quotation marks always travel in pairs! Well, almost always. When quoted dialogue carries from one paragraph to another (and to another and another), the closing quotation mark does not appear until the quoted language finally ends (although there is a beginning quotation mark at the start of each new quoted paragraph to remind the reader that this is quoted language).


I hope that helps a bit, as does the rest of the site. I'm sure there are better sites out there, but that was the first example I found. Check how the dialogue is written in any standard novel you have lying around the house. You should see what I'm talking about.

[mastertae]

Okay I see what you were saying I just misunderstood what you were asking the last time. Thanks for the site though. I'm sure it will be helpful as I write my novel too. : ) Okay I edited the 1st chapter again. I hope it's better ^_^

[mastertae]

Chapter 4: Perpetual Dreams

“When I am cut do I not bleed? When I am hurt why can you not see all the pains I have endured for the sake that you will not suffer too?”

Abelia stared out a large window. The sunset looked beautiful as the giant red sun went down beneath the desert dunes. It was because of the red sun that the planet had very little water. The world was thrown into war and chaos. Hamdo came into the room and placed his hand on Abelia’s shoulder.

“Is anything wrong my queen?” he whispered in her ear.

Abelia asked herself the same question. Ever since she met Shu and Lala Ru she had become more hesitant towards her ultimate goal.

“Why did you let the boy live?” Hamdo softly asked.

Abelia pretended she did not hear the question. Her thoughts returned of Shu.

“Why if it hurts to see them like this do I let it happen?” she asked Hamdo as he embraced her in a kiss.

“There has to be sacrifices made to reach our ultimate goal my queen. You should know this better then anyone. I found you alone and distraught wandering the streets. You were abused and violated by men and it was I who saved you.” Hamdo replied.

Abelia clenched her fist. Her memories of wandering the streets and being forced into slavery was not a good one. Her only good memories was of Hamdo, but she could not forget what Shu had told her. She could not forget the pain she saw in his face. She could not forget that despite all the pain she inflicted on Shu he still implied she was a good person.

“Have I become a monster?” Abelia asked herself.

Abelia’s goal had always been the concquest of the planet inorder to create peace. She wanted to create a world ruled by women. A world where no woman would ever be violated by a man’s hand again. She even thought she had found the perfect method to fill in holes in her army. Hamdo was the one who had suggested invitro fertilisation. He claimed it was more reliable and faster. Abelia thought it was funny how something that was meant to help infertile couples have a baby was now used to help her maintain an army.

“Have I become a monster?” she asked herself once more.

All of a sudden Abelia could hear her phone ring. Abelia pushed Hamdo out of her way and grabbed the reciever.

“This is Abelia. What’s the problem?” she quickly said.

“An enemy craft was spotted.” The voice on the other end stated.

Abelia took a deep breath. “Deploy all troops.” she she screamed into the phone.

“And the pregnant girls? Did you want me to deploy them too?” the voice asked.
Abelia paused for a moment. She could not decide.

“It’s a necessity my queen.” Hamdo whispered into Abelia’s ear.

Abelia glanced out the window. “Deploy all troops to the battle field.” She wearily stated in the reciever.

Meanwhile Sara and the other girls were still looking for the pendant. It was not long thought before a siren sounded. All the girls suddenly stopped their search.

“This is Hamdo speaking. An enemy craft had been spotted. This is not a drill. All soldiers of Helywood are expected out on the field for battle. I repeat this is not a drill.” Hamdo stated in the intercom.

Sara watched as all the girls suddenly started to run in every direction. Many othem grabbed whatever gun they could find. Sara felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned around to see Kame holding two rifles. Kame handed one of the rifles to Sara. Sara stared at the rifle in disgust. She never used a gun before.

“You pull back on that piece and put the bullet in there. Then you put the piece back in place to secure the bullet. That little protrusion on the side is the safety. Make sure the safety’s off when you’re shooting the gun.” Kame coldly stated.

Soon Sara found herself out side. It was not long before she could see the enemy soldiers in the distance. It was not long after seeing the enemy that bullets began to fly by. To her horror she saw many of the younger girls shot dead on the spot. She saw Kame able to kill some of the incoming soldiers. All of a sudden Sara was pushed to the side. To her horror she realized that a small girl had just taken a bullet for her.
Sara quickly ran over to the girl with tears in her eyes. She placed her hand over the bullet wound in hopes that the bleeding would stop. It was not long before the small girl stopped breathing. The small girl had died. Sara let out a loud scream.

Kame along with Suzie, and Sarang grabbed Sara and hid behind a large rock.
“What do you think you’re doing out there? It’s either shoot or be shot! There is nothing else!” Sarang screamed.

Kame used a mirror so she could see the battle. Her eyes widened with horror. Curious to see what Kame had seen Sara poked her head around the corner of the rock. To her astonishment she saw a huge vehicle that resembled a cross between a large tank and a large fortress. She turned her head away when the vehicle fired a round into a group of young soldiers. Sara’s thoughts moved to Shu and his promise that they would get out of here.

“What is this place?” Sara asked herself.

Meanwhile Abelia was in her quarters looking at the battle taking place from her window. A young girl soldier ran into Abelia’s quarters and gave a salute.

“We’re receiving heavy casualties on the front lines. At this rate we’ll lose this battle.” The young soldier stated.

Hamdo who was standing beside Abelia smiled.

“We can use the missile my queen.” Hamdo whispered in Abelia’s ear.

Abelia looked up at the girl. Abelia’s eyes seemed to burn with a new fire.
“Launch the missile!” Abelia commanded.

The girl soldier looked at Abelia in astonishment.

“But that would cause heavy casualties.” Replied the girl soldier.

Abelia went over and slapped the girl.

“Don’t ever question me! If we lose this war then everything I’ve fought for is lost! Launch the missile!” commanded Abelia.

The girl saluted and walked off.

In another quarters Lala Ru was also watching the war from her window. Lala Ru placed her hand on the glass. The glass had a cold feel to it. In the distance Lala Ru saw a bright blue and white light and then heard the loud explosion of the missile. She wondered where Shu was and if he was okay. A tear flowed from her usually stoic expression.

In his cell Shu felt the ground shake and could hear the explosion of the missile. Thoughts of what Kame told him filled his head.

“She’s in training to become a soldier of Helywood.” Kame had told him.

A tear rolled from his eyes. He remembered when he was hung on a rope the bright light flying by.

“I hope she’s alright.” Shu whispered to himself.
Shu all of a sudden felt someone kick him. Shu fell over, but managed to get to his feet. Standing infront of Shu was Tabool.

“Where is it? I heard you came in with that girl Lala Ru. If you give me the pendant then maybe everything that is happening will stop!” Tabool screamed at Shu.

“I don’t know where the pendant is.” Shu replied.

Tabool angrily punched Shu in the cheek. “You liar!” he screamed.

Two other boys came over and held on to Shu’s arms as Tabool began to hit Shu numerous times. The beating though suddenly stopped. Shu looked up and saw Nabuca standing inbetween Tabool and himself.

“What do you think you’re doing Tabool!” barked Nabuca.

Tabool stared at Nabuca in disgust. “Someone like you has no right to question me!” Tabool stated as he walked away.

Shu felt himself being thrown to the floor. Nabuca stretched out his hand and helped Shu to his feet.

“I’m sorry about that. He wasn’t always like that. There was a time when him, his sister, and I use to play together. He use to smile all the time, but now he’s grown cold and angry, especially since he found out his sister was pregnant with my child.” Nabuca softly said.

Shu looked down at the floor. He had no words to comfort their pain.

He looked around and yelled out to the crowd. “As long as we’re alive good things will happen! Has everyone lost all hope!”

The crowd looked away from him. Not one person said a word after that. Shu looked around and then sat back down. He buried his head in his knees and cried. No words of comfort came his way. Everything was quiet. There were no girl soldiers running around in a frenzied state. The missile had done its job.

“I guess the battle’s over.” Shu quietly told himself.

[mastertae]

Chapter 5: Illusions of Granduer

Do you truly know a friend by their name?
And what happens on every given day?
Have you ever wondered if a friend is truly happy?
Or just maybe. . .life is just too long to live another day.
Do you truly know a friend by the expressions on their face?
Or could there be another ace up the sleeve?
Afraid within a day the friend decides to leave.
Do you truly know a friend within the midnight hour?
Could they be crying. . .praying. . .
So their soul may be devoured?
Do you know your friend?
Do you lend your hearts desire?
Do you know your friend?
Do you know their fire and the reason that it burns?
Or do you yearn to know more to give your life for them?
For you may never know the day or the hour when the essence
of their life comes to a final end.

Abelia sat at her desk looking at the casualty report from the battle the day before. Almost half of her units were destroyed by both enemy fire and the missile she had ordered to be launch. She had won the battle, but Abelia wondered if the cost was too high. She knew she could not afford another costly battle. Staring at a map Abelia began to contemplate her next move. She knew she had to replenish the number of troops she had. Abelia looked at the map and saw a village slightly east of their current location. Abelia took a marker and drew a circle around the village. She grabbed her walkie-talkie and called for Hamdo to come to her quarters. It was not long for Hamdo to arrive.

“How may I be of service my queen?” Hamdo asked.

“I need to replenish my troops so I need you to prepare the boys for deployment to this village.” Abelia commanded as she pointed to the village she had circled on the map.

“As you wish, I’ll deploy them immediately.” Hamdo remarked as he quickly left the room.

Abelia sat back down at her desk and rested her head on the desk. She felt that everything was finally running smoothly. All she needed now was Abelia’s pendant. Abelia began to wonder if she should have the boys help in the search, but decided against it. Abelia felt that she did not need the pendant, but Hamdo assured her that the pendant had special properties that would assure her victory. Abelia began to think of all the horrific deeds that has been done in her name and she wondered if history would see her as a great leader or as a tyrant. Abelia laid her head on her desk and closed her eyes. All she ever wanted was a peaceful existence, but instead she found herself surrounded by destruction.

Shu was in his cell. Shu and the other boy prisoners were just ordered that they would be deployed to a village. Each of the boy prisoners including Shu were forced to wear some sort of collar. The collar had a red LED light that glowed when it was locked in place. Shu also realized that the only adult soldier he had seen were the nurses, doctors, Hamdo and Abelia. Shu walked over to Nabuca.

“I was just wondering why the only adults I’ve seen are in the labs?” Shu asked

Nabuca looked at Shu. “It depends. Adult males are killed if they are deemed too weak or too old. Most adult males though do maintenance on the ship, but a few of them are trained as doctors. Adult females have it the easiest. They’re used as nurses. Some of the young ones though are impregnated through invitro fertilization. Since there is no way to keep our samples you’re probably already a father.” Nabuca replied.

A tear rolled down Shu’s cheek. He could not believe what he had just learned. Nabuca handed Shu an yellow and orange uniform. Shu quietly put the uniform on. It was not long before a girl escorted all the boys outside. Once outside everyone was given some water. Nabuca, Boo, and Tabool came back with some rifles. Nabuca tried to hand Shu a rifle, but Shu declined. Shu instead grabbed a stick off the ground.

“I won’t fight, but I’ll help you dig trenches and the wounded.” said Shu.

“Only the girls do actually fighting. What we do is much worse.” Nabuca replied without looking at Shu.

Shu looked away, because he already knew what Nabuca had meant. The boys were not only forced to have children, but they were made to bring in new recruitments.

Shu looked Nabuca and stated, “I won’t do it! I won’t force people to do something they don’t want to do!”

“You don’t have a choice. We’re soldiers just like the girls. Can’t you see that we have to do this to survive! Once this war is over we can all go home!” Nabuca replied.

Nabuca began to tell Shu everything that happened in his life. He began to tell the story of how Tabool was once a good kid, who would smile all the time. He talked about how they all use to run through the meadow. Shu learned that it was these memories that kept Nabuca sane. Nabuca’s wish to be home is what kept him alive. Tabool walked over and grabbed Shu’s canteen and began to drink the water.

“If you’re not going to help then you’re just a waste of good water.” Tabool angrily screamed.

Tabool then grabbed Shu and held him by Shu’s shirt.

“I’ll give you back the water if you give me that pendant.” whispered Tabool.
Nabuca though pushed Tabool to the ground. Tabool got back to his feet and stared at Nabuca. It looked as if Tabool was ready to attack, but instead he walked off without a word. Nabuca picked the canteen up and handed it back to Shu.

“Don’t get the wrong idea. I’m in the same opinion as Nabuca. If you won’t help then you’re a waste of water.” Nabuca harshly replied.

Nabuca walked off towards the gathering troop formation. Boo looked up at Shu. Shu could see the confusion in Boo’s face. Boo looked away and ran after Nabuca. Shu looked at the half full canteen. He closed the canteen and attached it to his belt. Slowly Shu got up and with his stick in his hand he joined Nabuca and Boo. Shu handed the half full canteen to Boo.

“Go ahead and drink it. I won’t drink it if you all feel I didn’t earn it.” Shu replied mostly talking to Nabuca.

“Why did you come in formation if you don’t plan on helping us?” Nabuca asked.

Shu looked at Nabuca. Shu’s face was expressionless as he replied, “To stop you.”

It was not long before they all began their trek across the desert. Within a few minutes they found themselves at the outskirts of the village. In the distance Shu could barely distinguish the people, but imagined small children playing together. He imagined mothers and fathers doing their daily chores. A tear streamed down his cheek. There were various vehicles with them. One of the vehicles fired a missile at the village. The missiles hit three building. Hamdo claimed that the building was military targets, but in Shu’s heart he knew the building were really a warning that if the villagers did not surrender then he would kill them all and take the children by force. After the missiles hit they were all ordered to enter the village. As they entered the village there was a group of adults standing and waiting for them. Hamdo walked forward and ordered the adults to surrender. An old man stepped forward.

“We’ll give you water and supplies, but you cannot take our people” the old man replied

Then two of the younger men ran and attacked Hamdo. Shu watched in horror as Nabuca and Tabool shot them dead. Shu ran towards the men. In a panic stated he tried to stop the bleeding on one of them men. The blood was gushing like a geyser. Hamdo walked over to Shu and kicked him out of the way. With no remorse Hamdo placed the gun to the man’s head and pulled the trigger.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Hamdo angrily yelled at Shu.
Nabuca quickly intervened.

“Sorry sir. He’s a new recruit. I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again.” Nabuca replied.

Shu was forced back to his feet. Nabuca ordered Boo to keep watch of him. Boo pointed the gun at Shu. Shu could sweat forming on Boo’s head.

“Don’t try anything funny or I’ll shoot.” Boo shouted.

“Is your hands tainted by the blood of innocents too?” Shu replied to Boo.

Shu’s reply seemed to shaken Boo as he looked away. Shu looked over and saw small children being loaded into trucks. He noticed that the girls and boys were separated into different trucks. They did the same with adults. Shu saw the older adults lined up side by side to each other. They were all blind folded. Shu realized what was happening. Shu quickly got to his feet and started to run towards them in hope that he could stop it, but then he felt a sharp pain in his leg. Boo had shot him. Not wanting to look he heard the sounds of gun fire. They all were executed on the spot. On the way back to their cells Shu remained speechless. Shu went to a corner and fell asleep. He dreamt of Lala Ru and Sara. In his dream he could hear the faint cry of a small baby.

[mastertae]

Chapter 6: Elysian Fields

Oh!, the days I've seen
The things I've felt
Purity lost in a forgotten realm as I
Travel through a dark, thick, gloomy haze
When will the horror end...
The unforgiving pain in my forsaken life
I live...I die...
I stand alone, in a forgotten land...
Alone I live...alone I'll die...
Forever More...Good-bye

Sara lay in her bunk bed. The battle from a couple nights ago was still fresh in her mind. The image of the girl taking a bullet for her would not allow her to sleep. Tears streamed down Sara’s face. She stared at her hands. She tried to save the little girl, but in the end she had failed. Sara began to wonder if Shu’s word had any merit. Sara closed her eyes in an attempt to fall asleep, but then she felt something tap her shoulder. Sara opened her eyes and saw Sarang standing next to her bunk. Sara could see tears coming down Sarang’s face.

“I’m sorry about waking you, but I have a favor to ask.” Whispered Sarang.

Sara sat up and looked at Sarang. Sarang had brown eyes and black hair. Sara looked at the soon to be baby and a tear fell from her eyes as she remembered that she too was going to be a mother.

“Of course, what do you need?” Sara asked Sarang.
Sarang looked around to make sure no one was awake. It appeared that everyone was fast asleep. Sarang let out a sigh of relief. Sarang looked at Sara and smiled. It was the first time that Sara could remember seeing Sarang smile.

“I’m going to help you escape.” Sarang whispered.
Sara looked at Sarang. She could not believe what she was hearing. Sara began to wonder if this was some sort of sick joke being played on her. Sara wondered why Sarang would risk so much for someone she hardly knew. She began to think that maybe Shu was right. As long as she is still alive then maybe good things could still happen.

Sara smiled as she said, “Okay, but how are we going to escape?”
Sarang glanced over her shoulder to make sure that no one was listening.

“I have guard duty so I can help you out of Helywood, but once you’re outside I’m afraid you’re on your own. Like I said though I also have a favor, I want you to take Suzie with you.” Sarang replied.

“What about Kame and you?” Sara asked

“Kame is a delusional fool. She’s been brainwashed into believing Abelia’s dream of a world run by women. These babies we carry are a testament of how crazy Abelia is, but Kame refuses to see that. I won’t let that happen to Suzie. She’s a good girl and so are you.” Sarang replied.

“You still haven’t answered me. What about you? You can’t stay here!” Sara said.

“I’ll only be a burden, besides this child I carry is close to delivering. It’s just too risky.” Sarang replied.

Sarang quickly handed Sara a guard’s uniform and woke up Suzie. She quickly explained to Suzie that she was going to help her escape. Sara could see tears in Suzie’s eyes as Sarang told her that she was not going to be coming. Sarang gave Suzie a guard’s uniform as well. All three of the girls now wore guard’s uniform. Sarang led Sara and Suzie through various twists and turns. Every once in a while Sarang would stop and make sure no one had spotted them. It was not long before they arrived at some sort of vent. Sarang told Sara and Suzie that the vent leads outside into the desert. Sara and Suzie gave Sarang a hug as they told each other good-bye.

Sara and Suzie must have walked for hours. The sun was rising and they both could feel the heat bearing down on them. Suzie fell in the sand. The heat was too much and her small legs could not walk anymore. Sara went over and picked Suzie up on her back. Sara also began to feel exhausted, but she knew that if they stopped under the hot sun now then their chances to survival were none. After a few more hours of walking in the desert Sara’s legs buckled and she fell forward. Everything began to become hazy and dark. As she was about to finally collapse she saw two shadowy figures that appeared to be wearing some sort of suit. The suit reminded her some what of a rain suit. They wore goggles and a mask on their faces. Sara wondered if they were here to save them as she finally collapsed.

Abelia sat in her office. She had become more frustrated, because the pendant had not been found. She also grew concerned over a rumor that there may be an assassination attempt. There was a knock at her door. Abelia took a pistol from her drawer.

“Enter!” Abelia commanded.

A young girl walked into her office. She brought in a heavily pregnant girl and pointed a rifle at her. The pregnant girl’s remained expressionless. She showed no fear towards Abelia.

“What’s the meaning of this?” Abelia asked for answers.

“This girl helped a couple of prisoners escape.” The girl replied.

Abelia looked at the pregnant girl in disgust. She walked over and back handed the pregnant girl.

“What’s your name?” Abelia demanded.

The pregnant girl smiled. She showed no fear towards Abelia. This seemed to anger Abelia even more as she once again slapped the pregnant girl.

“My name’s Sarang. Tell me does it feel good to hit a pregnant girl?” Sarang replied with a smile.

This comment infuriated Abelia. Abelia pulled out her pistol and pointed it at Sarang’s head. Abelia and Sarang stared at each other. Both refused to say a word. Sarang closed her eyes. She hoped that Abelia would pull the trigger, but nothing came. Abelia lowered the pistol and walked to her desk.

“Take her to her quarters.” Abelia commanded.

“She’s a liability; shouldn’t we make an example of her?” The girl commented.

Abelia stared at Sarang and then at her unborn child.

“No, she has suffered enough. Take her to her quarters and no one is to lay a finger on her. Is that clear?” Abelia commanded.

The other girl soldier politely bowed and led Sarang back to her quarters. Sarang was confused. She did not understand why Abelia had spared her life.

“Why did you leave me cursed?” Whispered Sarang to herself.

Abelia was back on at her desk. She laid placed her pistol on the corner of the desk and laid her head down to rest. The look of Sarang’s face was still fresh in her mind. It was the look of someone who wished to die. It was the same look she had carried when Hamdo had found her in the streets. Abelia heard a knock at her door. Abelia sat up. Something did not feel right. Abelia picked up her pistol and grasped it under her desk.

“Come in!” Abelia ordered.

The door suddenly swung open. Two men wearing a bandana over their mouth opened fire at Abelia. Abelia quickly leaped under her desk. Shooting over the desk she managed to shoot one of the assassins. The other assassin quickly ran out the room. Abelia walked over to the corpse of the assassin she just killed and kicked it. She went over to her desk and pressed the button to the intercom.

“This is Abelia! There has been an attempt at my life and one of the perpetrators has escaped. All soldiers both male and female are to find him and shoot him on sight. I repeat I want this man dead. He has a tattoo of two bands on his right wrist. Find him and kill him!” Abelia ordered over the intercom.

Shu heard Abelia’s orders and saw a bunch of girl guards running around. The boys in the cell were forced to wear the same collar as when they had to capture more recruits. Shu shuddered when Abelia described the tattoo. Shu remembered Soon and how he witnessed her father being killed. Shu quickly ran to Nabuca and grabbed him.

“We can’t kill that man!” Shu hysterically screamed at Nabuca.

Nabuca looked at Shu as if Shu had finally lost his mind.

“You heard the orders. We’re to kill the assassin!” Nabuca replied

Shu did not say a word. He was afraid that he would fail again to save Soon’s father. It was not long before Nabuca , Boo, and Shu began to search for the assassin. They went from corner to corner in search of the assassin, but could not find him. All of a sudden though someone grabbed Boo and placed a knife to his throat.

“I’ll kill him I swear I’ll slit his throat!” Soon’s father fearfully proclaimed.

Nabuca lifted his rifle and was about to shoot, but Shu jumped in the way.

“You can’t kill this man. He has a daughter named Soon!” Shu stated.

When Soon’s father heard the name of his daughter he quickly dropped his knife. He raised his hand in surrender. It was not long before Abelia arrived at the scene.

“Why didn’t you shoot this man like I ordered?” asked Abelia.

“Sorry my queen, but this soldier is new and he got in our way.” Nabuca stated as he looked at Shu.

Boo was still on the floor, but got up and stood next to Nabuca. Abelia looked at Shu with disgust. She walked over to the Soon’s father and placed the gun on his temple.

“Stop it! He has a daughter! You can’t kill him!” Shu yelled as Nabuca and another soldier held onto him.

Abelia looked at Shu and smiled. She pulled the trigger and Shu could hear a loud bang. Soon’s father was dead. Shu had failed to save him a second time. A tear fell from his eyes. Abelia walked over to Shu and hit him with her pistol. The world around Shu went dark. Boo stared at Shu and then at Nabuca. Boo could still remember what Shu had asked him. A tear fell from Boo’s eyes as he looked away.

“Take the boy and throw him in the pit!” ordered Abelia.

Nabuca and Boo took Shu to the pit. The pit was deep and dark. Nabuca then lowered Shu into the pit. Shu awoke to find himself complete darkness, Shu sat down and buried his head into his knees.

“Why, did he have to die again?” whispered Shu to himself.

[mastertae]

Chapter 7: Deliverance

I can feel its touch upon my cheek...an
embrace through all the years...I can hear
it whisper sweet lullabies...I can feel it
wipe my tears...I can sense its magical
air...Oh how I yearn to fly as I watch him
lift the eagle so it may soar so high...Oh
how I wish to be the wind flowing softly
through and fro...Oh how I wish for the wind
To gently carry me home…

Shu woke up and found that he was still in the pit. He looked around. He was not sure how long he had been in the pit. Shu’s stomach began to growl from hunger. Shu stood up and looked around the pit. There was some light that seeped through a hole in the roof. The pit itself was not very large. It could only hold one person at a time. The pit seemed to be filled with dirt, but Shu realized that it was trash and discarded waste products. Faintly Shu could hear some foot steps. It was not long before Shu saw a familiar face looking down at him. It was Boo.

“I was told to give you some food.” Said Boo.

Boo brought out a metal bowl and threw it down at Shu. Shu quickly ate the food as Boo watched. Shu looked up at Boo and saw a tear fall from his eye.

“What’s wrong?” asked Shu.

Boo looked down at Shu and tried to regain his composure.

“I was just thinking about what you had asked me. You know if I had any innocent blood on my hands. I’ve never killed anyone myself, but I’ve seen too many people die as it is. Nabuca promised me that after the war I get to go home. I’ll do what I have to.” Boo replied.

Shu looked up at Boo. Tears were visibly coming from Boo’s eyes.

“What home will you go back to? You saw it too didn’t you! Hey killed those people they thought were too old or weak. Can you go back to your home with the knowledge that the reason someone’s grandmother or grandfather isn’t there is because you killed them? What if they thought your mother and father were too weak? You saw what they do to the weak!” Shu yelled.

Boo was visibly shaken by Shu’s words. Boo looked Shu in the eyes as tears began flowing like rivers coming down a mountain.

“You’re wrong! My parents are alive!” Screamed Boo.

Shu looked away. He knew he shouldn’t have said that Boo’s parent could be dead. Shu began to wish he could take his words back. Shu looked at Boo and smiled.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that. I’m sure your parents are okay, but I still think this war is wrong.” Shu replied.

It was not long before Shu remembered how Boo had died the previous time. A tear rolled down his Shu’s cheek. Boo went and threw down a stick. Boo was going to let Shu escape. Shu grabbed the stick, which had become a symbol of hope for Shu. Shu looked at Boo and smiled.

“I have to get Lala Ru. Come with me. You won’t have to kill anymore.” Shu asked.

Boo looked at Shu and turned away. As he walked away Shu could hear Boo reply. “I can’t. I’m sorry, but I can’t leave Nabuca behind.”

Boo was out of sight.

Shu then felt a water droplet hit him on the head. Shu looked up and could see a faint glistening object hanging from what appeared to be a root. Shu eyes widened when he realized it was Lala Ru’s pendant. Shu reached with his stick and managed to get the pendant. Shu put the pendant on around his neck and began to climb out of the pit. The only thing in his mind at the moment was to save Lala Ru and escape. Shu’s body felt like it was on fire as he sluggishly forced himself out of the pit. Once out of the pit Shu looked around. He saw a door and quickly ran for it. It was not long before he ran into a girl soldier. Shu recognized the soldier as Kame. Kame quickly got to her feet and pointed her gun at Shu.

“Don’t move or I’ll shoot!” Kame yelled at Shu.

Shu stood to his feet and walk toward Kame. His face was emotionless. He had one goal in mind and that was his escape and he was going to take Lala Ru with him. He walked until the barrel of the gun pressed against his chest.

“Then shoot me, because I’m going to escape one way or another.” Shu calmly replied.

Kame stared at Shu. Her face was distorted into an angry stare. She pressed the barrel of the gun even harder into Shu’s chest. Kame did not waiver. She put her finger on the trigger, but did not pull the trigger. Shu looked at Kame hard and noticed that Sarang and Suzie were not with her.

“So, where are your friend’s?” Shu asked.

Kame was seemed to become even angrier when Shu had asked her about Suzie and Sarang.

“Sarang helped Suzie and a new girl escape. Sarang is imprisoned in her quarters for the time being. She’s and idiot though. Once Suzie and that girl are captured they’ll be executed.” replied Kame.

Shu grabbed the barrel of the gun and tucked it under his chin. Kame was surprised by Shu’s actions. She had expected him to surrender, but Shu was going to be defiant even if it meant his own death.

“Will this be the way they’ll kill Suzie when they catch her? Maybe they’ll tell her to get on her knees before they shoot.” Shu coldly replied.

Kame was clearly becoming distraught. Thought began to fill her head. Finally Kame lowered her gun and turned away. Shu walked passed her. A tear fell from his eyes. He felt the anger building inside him at the thought of what Kame must be going through. Shu also felt relieved when he learned that Sara had escaped. In Shu’s heart he knew that she must have been saved from the desert by Sis. The memories of Sis filled his head. It was not long before he reached a corner. He carefully looked around the corner and saw two guards escorting a girl with blue hair. Shu quickly recognized the girl as Lala Ru. Shu ran and grabbed Lala Ru’s hand. The two began to run away, but Shu accidentally tripped. Things were not going well for Shu. Shu looked back and could see guards coming at him. He saw one of the girls talk into a walkie-talkie. Shu quickly got back to his feet along with Lala Ru. They began to run. Again their escape was impeded, but to their horror it was Hamdo and Abelia. Abelia’s face was clearly angry. Hamdo seemed to smile as he saw the pendant around Shu’s neck. Shu thought it was finally over, but then all of a sudden there was a large flash of water that filled the fortress. Lala Ru had activated her powers in order to save them. The water that filled the ship carried Lala Ru and Shu out of the fortress. They were now outside. Outside Shu saw a hover device and remembered that they had escaped on it the time before. Shu looked over at Lala Ru who was now visibly weak from using her powers. Shu asked Lala Ru to climb onto his back. They got onto the hover device, which looked similar to a moped. They had escaped their captors, but Shu knew that Abelia would come after them. Shu and Lala Ru were on the moped, but it was not long before the small vehicle finally ran out of fuel. Lala Ru and Shu were forced to make their journey by foot. It felt like hours, before they finally made it to a cave. Shu decided it would be best for them to rest in the cave, because Lala Ru was still weak from using her powers. They entered the cave and went into one of the caverns. Memories fill Shu’s head about the last time he had hid in this same cave. Shu knew that a search party would come after them, but he remained optimistic of the outcome.

[mastertae]

Abelia stood up. There was water everywhere in the fortress. Much of the water Abelia stood in was up to her knees. Abelia looked around and became infuriated when she realized that Shu and Lala Ru had escaped with the pendant. Abelia quickly went back to her office. Her office was drenched in water as well. She went to her desk and pressed on the intercom button.

“This is Abelia, two prisoners have escaped. Everyone is required to find them. I want them alive!” Abelia commanded.

Abelia soon met everyone outside to begin the search. She looked around at the sea of young boys and girls. Many of the girls were pregnant, but Abelia tried to her best not to think of it.

Within the large search party were Kame, Boo, Nabuca, and Tabool. The search was on the way. All around soldiers, both girls and boys alike were scouring the desert in search of Lala Ru and Shu. It was not long before the large search party came up to a cave. The cave had many caverns and was lined with crystalline stalactites and stalagmites on the ceiling and floor of the cave. Kame and Tabool went one way in the cave, while Boo and Nabuca went the opposite direction. It felt like hours of searching, but Shu and Lala Ru were nowhere to be found.

Shu on the other hand was looking at the large search party that had just arrived. Shu knew that they had to escape, but Shu could not find a way out of the cave. It was not long before Shu saw Nabuca coming towards their direction. As Nabuca came closer Shu tried to duck away, but it was clear that Nabuca had seen him. Fear began to grip Shu as he began to wonder what Nabuca would do if he finds them. The last time Shu had saved Nabuca’s life and Nabuca had let him escape, but this time was different. Shu did not save Nabuca’s. It was not long before Shu found a light to his face. It was Nabuca and Boo. Boo was holding a gun towards Shu.

“There’s nowhere to run!” barked Nabuca.

Shu looked at Nabuca and then at Boo.

“Whats going on over there?” a soldier yelled at Nabuca.

Nabuca looked at Shu. His face was emotionless.

“Sorry sir, but I didn’t find anyone here!” Nabuca replied towards the soldier.

Shu looked at Nabuca surprised and confused. He did not understand why Nabuca was letting him go. He understood the last time Nabuca had let him go, but this time events were happening much differently.

“Don’t get me wrong. I’m not doing this for you, but if you’re captured then Boo may become implicated in your escape and he’ll wind up being executed along with you. I’m doing the for Boo not you so the next time I see you I’ll kill you without a second thought.” Replied Nabuca to Shu’s thoughts.

Nabuca then told Shu that there was a back way out of the cave if the continued further into the cavern. Shu and Lala Ru followed Nabuca’s advice and found that they were outside once more. As they began their travels Lala Ru collapsed. Shu picked her up on his back and began to carry her. They had finally escaped.

[mastertae]

Chapter 8: Companionship

She's a fallen angel loved and despised by the world...The painfull memories, become a single blur as she puts the bottle to her lips...slowly drinking the pain away hoping to live another day...she grows tired and cold...falls to her knees and prays...putting the gun to her head she wonders...click...click...the pull of the trigger and it all comes to an end...she wonders why you didn't listen to her cries of angst and disgust...she wonders why when you called her friend you let it end...she wonders why when you call her sister...did you let it go too far...she wonders.......

The World goes quiet and still she gets no answers....

Shu carried Lala Ru on his back. Lala Ru’s weight was becoming burdensome, but Shu knew that he had to continue on. Time seemed at a stand still as the continued on their way. Shu had no clue what direction they were going, but his memories of Sis told him that he was going the correct way towards Zari-Bars. It was not long before Lala Ru finally awoke from her exhaustion.
Lala Ru looked around as she was being carried. All around her she could see the vast desert. It was just an endless sea of sand. It was beginning to get dark. The air was becoming cold and frigid. Lala Ru tapped Shu on the shoulder.

“I think I can walk now.” Said Lala Ru.

Shu set Lala Ru down. Shu could see rock formations in the distance. The rocks reminded Shu of large mushrooms. Shu and Lala Ru began their trek towards the rock formation. It took what felt like hours, before they finally reached the large rock formations. As they walked passed a few of the mushroom-like rocks they came up to a skeleton partially hidden in the sand. Next to the skeleton were a doll and a small sack. Shu picked up the small sack. In the sack there were a few explosives and a couple of matches. Shu then remembered a plant-like creature attacking them from his experience before the time change.

With that thought something came and grabbed onto Shu’s ankle. Shu looked down and saw what appeared to be a vine. Shu was being pulled to a large plant-like creature. It had a large opening with rows upon rows of teeth. Shu repeatedly hit the tendril with the femur. Eventually the plant-like creature let go, but it had not given up yet as it reached for Lala Ru. Shu quickly grabbed Lala Ru’s hand and ran. Shu and Lala Ru quickly came up to what appeared to be a large boulder. Shu quickly lifted Lala Ru to the top of the boulder. As Shu tried to climb the boulder the creature used one of it’s tendrils to latch onto Shu’s leg. Shu wasted no time and gave the creature’s tendril a hard whack. The creature let go of Shu’s leg. Shu quickly managed to get up the boulder, but the creature became more persistent as it managed to get a tendril onto Lala Ru’s ankle and pulled her onto the sand. Shu quickly took action as he leaped onto the sand and hit the tendril. The creature let go of Lala Ru’s ankle, but Lala Ru appeared to have hurt her ankle. Shu quickly remembered the explosives and the matches. Shu took one of the explosives and lit it. He threw the explosive into the creature’s mouth, but the explosive turned out to be a dud. Shu quickly grabbed the other explosive and lit it with the last match in the bag. Shu hoped that the explosive would work. Shu closed his eyes as he threw the explosive. The explosive let out a loud boom! Shu opened his eyes to see that the creature was dead.

Shu walked over to Lala Ru who was obvious hurt. Lala Ru tried to get up herself, but fell back to the ground. Shu reached out his hand.

“It’s okay, I’ll carry you.” Said Shu.

Shu carried Lala Ru onto his back. He walked over and managed to lift Lala Ru onto the boulder. Shu climbed up the boulder and joined her. Shu stood up on the large rock and stared out into the horizon. There was still vast desert that they had to cover. Shu pulled out Sara’s handkerchief from his pocket. The thought of Sara filled his head. Shu looked over to Lala Ru and helped her to his back again. They climbed down the boulder and continued their journey.

Shu could feel the heat beating down upon his head as the sun began to rise. Shu set Lala Ru down to rest. Shu realized that he was still wearing Lala Ru’s pendant. He took it off and handed it to her. Lala Ru looked up at Shu and smiled. Shu looked round and spotted what appeared to be an oasis. Shu picked Lala Ru on his back as they walked towards the oasis. Shu hoped that it was not a mirage. As they got close it was apparent that it was not a mirage after all. Shu and Lala Ru went and drank some of the water.

“You have you’re memories of the last time too?” asked Shu

Lala Ru looked at Shu and nodded her head in agreement. Shu looked at the oasis. The oasis was actually very small. It was more of a small hole with water then an oasis, but at this point any water to Shu was a good thing. This also gave Lala Ru a chance to rest her ankle. After resting for a few minutes it was time for them to continue on their journey. Lala Ru was still hurt so Shu lifter her to his back.

Shu and Lala Ru walked for about an hour. It was nothing, but sand and more sand. An occasional wind gust would blow the sand into their face, but Shu and Lala Ru kept on walking. Eventually they got to an area with large plateaus at either side of them. Shu and Lala Ru decided to climb the cliffs. It was a hard climb, but eventually they managed to reach the top. The walked to the other side of the cliff and looked down. They could see various buildings and farms. They had finally made their treacherous journey. They finally reached Zari-Bars.

Shu carried Lala Ru down the cliff and started towards Zari-Bars. As they walked towards Zari-Bars Shu saw a smalle girl sitting on a boulder. Shu recognized the small girl as Soon. Soon stomach became tied into a knot as he remembered watching her father being killed. A tear rolled down Shu’s cheek as he remembered that the last time Soon was killed by Nabuca. Shu continued walking down the path. It was not long before he could hear two people arguing. Shu looked to see who the people were that were arguing. It was an old lady arguing with a young man.

“How many more people will die?” the lady asked the young man.
Shu immediately recognized the old woman as Sis. Shu while carrying Lala Ru walked over to Sis and the young man. The young man and Sis stopped their argument and looked at Shu.

“Hi, I’m Shu! My friend and I came from Helywood.” Shu stated. The young man looked at Shu in disgust when Shu mentioned Helywood.

Sis looked at Shu and smiled. Her smiled seem to make Shu feel safe and welcomed.

“You must have been through a lot. Who’s you’re friend over there?” Sis asked.

The last time he lied to Sis about Lala Ru’s name he got punished. Shu decided then it was best to tell the truth. The young man standing next to Sis though decided to leave the conversation.

“This is Lala Ru.” Said Shu.

Sis looked at Lala Ru in surprise and smiled warmly at Lala Ru.

“I see. Then you must have quite the story to tell. Come and we can talk about it at lunch.” Said Sis.

Shu smiled and gave a nodding agreement. The three went to Sis’ home. All the homes in Zari-Bars were made into the surrounding rock. Inside Sis’ home Shu saw many small children at the table already. Soon and Sara was not there yet. Sis invited Lala Ru and Shu to sit at the table to eat. It was not long, before Soon finally came into the makeshift home. She sat next to Lala Ru and remained quiet. It was not long after that that Sara came into the home. She was carrying some vegetables in her apron, but at the sight of Shu and Lala Ru she dropped the vegetables to the floor. Sara especially took notice of Lala Ru. Sara grabbed a fork from the table and attacked Lala Ru.

“It’s all you’re fault that all this is happening!” Sara screamed as she attacked Lala Ru with the fork.

Shu though had already anticipated that this would occur and was already on his feet. He threw his body in between Lala Ru and Sara. The fork stabbed Shu in the shoulder. Sara and Lala Ru both looked at Shu. They both were surprised by Shu’s action. Shu looked at them both and smiled.

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to…” Sara’s words were cut short as she collapsed.

[mastertae]

Chapter 9: Lullaby

I lay under a willow tree…
I lay and begin to dream…
Can you not hear her gently singing?
Can you not hear her cry?
I lay and I listen to her calls.
I lay and I listen to the calls
of the whispering willow and all
her songs of sorrow. I gently fall
fast asleep.

Sara and Shu were both taken to the doctor. The stab Shu received to his shoulder was not that serious, but the doctor was surprised and frowned when he saw Shu’s scars. After being bandaged Shu went to go see Sara who was in the other room. Sara was already awake by then. Shu and Sara could hear the doctor talking to Sis.

“They’ll both be okay. The boy’s wound was nothing serious, although I would like to mention that I found many scars on him. I also discovered other wounds on him, but they appeared to be healing fine. It’s quite troubling. I swear that boy was severely beaten and tortured.” The doctor told Sis.

“How is the girl doing?” Sis asked the doctor.

“The girl is doing just fine, but I find it troubling that she’s pregnant, but what makes matters worse there was no scarring or any signs of abuse. I’ll have to ask them both a few questions before I’m willing to release them.” The doctor replied to Sis.

Shu and Sara looked away from each other when they heard the news. The doctor came into the room. The doctor was an old man with balding white hair and a mustache. The doctor grabbed two stools and sat on one of them. Shu sat in the other stool. The doctor smiled at both of them. The doctor turned and looked at Sara. His face became serious as he began to speak.

“Judging by the way you two are acting I’m guessing you both heard the conversation. I’m going to give it to you both straight. After numerous tests I discovered that Sara is pregnant, but I could not find any signs of scarring or abuse. As a doctor and a man of science I’m beginning to think this pregnancy was done artificially.” Said the doctor.

The doctor immediately knew the answer as Sara quickly curled into a ball. Shu though remained on his feet still trying to comprehend what the doctor was saying. The doctor looked at Shu. Shu saw a tear form around the doctor’s eyes.

“I’m going to ask you a very personal question Shu. I saw your cuts and scars, but I need to ask if you were violated in any other way?” the doctor asked.

Shu looked away from the doctor. The memory of the lab filled his head. He did not know how to answer, but it appeared his actions already told the doctor everything he needed to know. The doctor stood up and walked over to Shu and looked into Shu’s eyes.

“Shu I’m going to need a blood test.” Said the doctor.

Shu nodded that he understood. The doctor grabbed a syringe and a test-tube. The doctor carefully withdrew some of Shu’s blood and placed it into the test-tube. The doctor then asked Shu to leave the room. Shu quietly left the room and went into the other room. Sis was still in the room waiting for the doctor to come back with some news. Shu looked at Sis and began to cry. Sis quickly walked over to Shu and embraced him in a hug. Shu looked up at Sis. Shu took a deep breath and began to tell Sis everything that happened. He started by telling her the events of the first time he came to their time period and then he told her how time had reverted backwards and many of the events had change. Shu continued to also talk about many of the events that stayed the same and how he had been hopeless to stop them from recurring no matter how hard he tried. Then he told Sis about how he promised Sara that things would be different and how much it hurt to learn that she was pregnant again through horrific means. Shu described his torture and then how he was taken to a lab and violated.
Sis looked at Shu. She was horrified to learn that young girls and boys were forced to be soldiers and then forced to have children through in vitro fertilization.

“What will you do if the child is yours?” Sis gently asked Shu.

Shu looked at Sis. His eyes were watery and seemed as if he would burst into tears again, but Shu managed to maintain his composure. Shu knew that this was not the time to fall apart. Shu had to remain strong for Sara. Sara looked at Sis and smiled.

“I’ll do what I have to.” Shu replied.

Shu then walked out-side. He walked over to the boulder where he originally saw Soon sitting. It was already night and Soon must have went inside to bed. Shu climbed the boulder and sat down. Shu looked at the moon and stars. Everything at this moment seemed so serene and calm. Shu felt some one touch his shoulder. Shu turned a looked. It was Sara. She had tears in her eyes. She sat next to Shu and looked up to the sky.

“It’s beautiful isn’t it?” Sara asked as she pointed to the moon.

Shu looked at Sara. Here eyes seemed to glisten like jewels under the moon. A breeze blew by and Sara’s hair seemed to move like the wind. Shu thought Sara looked beautiful. Shu blushed at the thought and looked at the moon.

“What if it’s your child?” Sara asked.

Shu looked at Sara. He wanted to say that everything would be alright, but at the moment Shu did not have an answer. Things were moving so fast, that Shu hardly had anytime to think.

“I don’t know. You didn’t get pregnant this way the last time. So much is different, yet so much remains the same. I made a promise. I promised myself I wouldn’t allow anyone to be hurt anymore, but I’ve already failed so many times. I don’t know what to do.” Shu said.

Sara looked at Shu and smiled.

“You once told me that as long as we’re alive that good things will happen. Do you still believe in your own words?” Sara gently asked.

Shu looked at Sara. He forced a smile onto his face.

“Of course I still believe that.” Shu replied.

Sara smiled and gently let herself down the boulder and quietly walked back into the home. She went into the restroom and looked into the mirror. Tears streamed down her face. She picked up some scissors that were lying on the sink and cut his hair. Sara then fell to her knees and cried.
It was not long before Shu came into the home. Sis and Sara were in the hall. Shu looked at Sara and noticed that she had cut her hair. Shu also noticed that Sara had been crying, but Shu could not say anything. A little girl had come down stairs. Shu was surprised that it was the small girl that had been with Sarang and Kame.

“You’re that Suzie girl who was with Sarang and Kame?” Shu asked

Suzie looked at Shu then at Sara. She was surprised by everything that was happening. Suze smiled and ran over to Shu and hugged him.
“Sarang helped me and Sara escapes that bad place. I met lots of friends, but my best friend in the whole universe is Soon!” Suzie proclaimed excitedly.
Shu heart skipped a beat when Suzie mentioned Soon. The image of Abelia standing over Soon’s father was still deeply embedded in Shu’s memory. A tear began to flow from his eye.

“Can you tell me and Soon a bedtime story?” Suzie asked.

Shu smiled and agreed to tell them a bed time story. Sis led Shu and Sara upstairs along with Suzie. The room had various beds in it. Shu found out that Suzie slept in the bed next to Soon. Shu positioned a chair between Suzie and Soon. Shu looked at Soon and smiled as he told the story of a young girl, who enjoyed traveling to different places with her father. Soon seemed especially interested in the story and after the story Soon and Suzie bother were fast asleep. Shu wondered what they were dreaming of. Sis walked over and put a hand on Shu’s shoulder.

“You know Soon’s been much happier since she met Sara and Suzie. She uses to be so withdrawn since her father went on that mission. She would sit on that boulder and just wait for her father’s return. While we were talking in that room you said that Soon’s father had died. I know you’re going through a lot right now, but you’ll eventually have to tell her or she’ll wind up figuring out the hard way.” Sis said.

“How am I supposed to tell her?” Shu asked.

Sis looked at Shu. Her smile seemed to warm him.

“You told me she was killed when she learned her father had died, while the village was being attacked. Don’t you think she died, because she had no one to comfort her? Maybe this is your chance to save her.” Said Sis.

Shu looked down at Soon one last time as Sis walked out of the room. Soon seemed as peaceful as a baby she laid asleep. Shu knew he had to tell Soon about her father and decided he would do that tomorrow. Sara gently brushed against Shu’s shoulder as she went over to an empty bed and fell asleep. Shu stood up and went to the bed next to Sara. Shu looked at Sara. Shu was even more surprised to see that Sara looked even more beautiful with short hair. Shu went over to his bed and laid in it. The bed was soft and comfortable. There was another bed next his. Lying in the bed was Lala Ru. Lala Ru was fast asleep. Everything seemed so peaceful and serene. As Shu closed his eyes and began to sleep, he dreamt of the sun set over an ocean.

[mastertae]

While Shu and Sara rested asleep in Zari-Bars, Abelia sat at her desk furious that not just one person had escaped, but now two have escaped. There was a knock at her door. Abelia yelled for the person to come in. It was Hamdo. Hamdo was smiling. He appeared to be enjoying everything that was happening.

“My queen, I have some good news. With all this water we can finally use our engines. We can make Helywood come alive!” Hamdo stated as his eyes bulged with excitement.

Abelia paused. The thought of Helywood finally being able to move put Abelia in a much better mood, but it still did not change the fact that two prisoners escaped. There was another knock at the door. Abelia told the person to come in. It was a girl soldier with one of the boy prisoners.

“My queen this boy claims to know who let the boy and that girl escape.” the girl soldier proclaimed.

Abelia walked over to the boy.

“What’s your name?” Abelia asked.

The boy replied, “Tabool.”

Abelia looked at the boy and asked “So you have some news for me?”
Tabool looked at Abelia. He smiled. The smiled looked evil and had a dark connotation to it.

“I know who helped that boy and girl escape.” Said Tabool.
Abelia looked at Tabool. It was clear he wanted something in return for the information.

“I want something in return. I want to be more then just some kind of slave. I want to be like Hamdo. I want to be one of your commanders.” Tabool stated.

Abelia stared at Tabool. She could hardly believe that this boy would betray one of his own, just for a promotion.

“Fine, I’ll give you something in return for this information, but I can’t give you an outright promotion. It’ll take more then giving me information on traitors for me to give you a promotion.” Abelia answered.

“Of course my queen, but I at least hope this information will help you gain my trust. I saw in the cave Nabuca allowing the boy to escape.” Tabool replied.

Abelia looked at Tabool.

“Bring me Nabuca!” Abelia ordered the girl soldier.

The girl looked at Abelia and bowed as she left the room.

Hamdo walked over to Abelia.

“My queen we still have the issue about the water. Would you like me to get everyone to start pumping the water into the engines?” Hamdo asked.

“Of course I want to begin pumping the water immediately! How long will it take to pump all the water into the engines?” Abelia asked.

Hamdo smiled.

“It’ll take three days to pump the water and to get the engines online. I already sent out a person to search for the location of Zari-Bars. Hamdo replied.

Abelia smiled at the thought of getting her revenge on Zari-Bars. It was not long, before the girl soldier arrived with Nabuca. Abelia walked over to Nabuca and backhanded him on the cheek.

“I was told that you allowed the prisoner escape!” Abelia proclaimed.

Nabuca looked around the room. He saw Tabool standing next to Hamdo with a large grin on his face.

“You would betray your best friend Tabool?” Nabuca asked Tabool.
Abelia slapped Nabuca again.

“So it’s true. Why did you let the prisoner escape! You know the punishment for allowing a person to escape is death!” Abelia shouted.

“I’m sorry my queen, but I hesitated and that’s how he escaped. The next time I see him though I’ll kill him.” Nabuca replied.

Abelia looked at Nabuca and smiled. She knew that Nabuca was hiding something. It was obvious to her that he was protecting someone. Abelia though decided it would be best to spare him. She thought to herself that Nabuca would be the next in line after Hamdo, because Nabuca showed no fear of death and showed a strong mind.

“Very well I’ll spare you, but I don’t want this incident to repeat again. Next time I’ll have you executed. Take him back to his cell.” Stated Abelia.

Tabool was clearly agitated. He could not believe that Abelia would spare a traitor.

“My queen I must say I disagree with your judgment. He’s a traitor and should be executed!” Tabool screamed.

Abelia walked over to Tabool and punched him. Tabool looked at Abelia with surprise.

“How can anyone trust a person who would betray even their best friend? If I execute Nabuca, then I’m executing you along with him, because a person who betrays their friend is no better then an animal!” Abelia shouted.

The girl soldier led both Nabuca and Tabool to their cell.

Abelia smiled as she heard Hamdo barking orders to start pumping the water into the engines. Helywood in three days would be back online and if her spy finds Zari-Bars she’ll get revenge on the ones who tried to assassinate her.

[mastertae]

Sorry for some reason chapter 8 was missing...but I think I have them all posted now up to chapter 9...I'm working on chapter 10.

[mastertae]

Chapter 10: Sweet Embrace

How I miss you my dear friend…
I sit and ponder waiting for your return…
Two friends embraced in a hug…
I sit and wait as the sun begins to set…
I sit and wait when the sun begins to rise…
I sit…and I sit…waiting for your return…
Just so I can see you smile, before I go…

Shu awoke the next morning. Shu looked around the room. It appeared as if everyone had already awakened. Shu quickly went downstairs. Everyone was sitting at the table and eating breakfast. Lala Ru, Soon, and Suzie were not at the table. Shu went and sat in an empty chair next to Sara. Sis came over a put some steamed vegetables on a plate. Shu looked up and smiled.

“This smells great, but where are Lala Ru, Soon, and Suzie? Shu asked.

Sis smiled as she also gave Shu a small glass of water.

“They already finished their meals. Suzie and Soon both insisted that Lala Ru come play with them.” Sis replied.

Shu smiled he was happy that Lala Ru, Soon, and Suzie were all having fun. Shu decided that he would tell Soon about her father tomorrow, since she was having so much fun. Shu then ate his food. The food was better then the food he ate while he was imprisoned in Helywood. After he finished Sis walked over to Shu and put her hand on her shoulder.

“Since you’re staying here I require all my children to help around the place. You can handle a few chores right?” Sis asked.

Shu looked at Sis and smiled.

“Of course I’ll help! What would you like me to do!” Shu replied.

Sis smiled and looked at Sara and Shu.

“First I want you both to get some water from the caverns and then I think you both can help out in the fields.” Sis replied with a smile.

Shu felt much better today, despite everything that has happened. Shu was happy to be alive and he was happy to see Sara, Soon, and Lala Ru smile again. Sara then proceeded to lead Shu to the caverns with the water. Water was scarce, but the cavern was abundant with water. It seems the people of Zari-Bars understood the scarcity of the water supply and even had an armed guard in the cave that made sure that no one stole or took too much water. Shu and Sara filled a wooden bucket with water and carried it back to Sis. Sis used the water to water a few plants in the house. All the plants seemed to be growing either fruits or vegetables. Sis then gave the bucket to Sara and a hoe to Shu so they could work in the fields. All the children that lived with Sis joined Sara and Shu to help out in the fields.

Sara went and mostly just picked a few vegetables. Sis did not want Sara out too long though, because of her being pregnant. Shu went to another field with some of the children.

Shu then brought the hoe over his head and brought it back down as he screamed out “Men!”

The children looked at Shu and the all giggled. They had never seen anyone do anything like that before, but they thought it looked fun so they all proceeded to copy Shu. Shu laughed to himself. Everything seemed to be okay for once. After finishing in the fields Shu and the children had dirt all over them. Shu and the children went inside to get cleaned up. Sara was already setting the table for lunch. After coming down everyone quickly prayed and ate lunch.

After eating lunch Soon and Suzie walked over to Shu and Sara.

“Can you both play with us? We want to play house! You and Sara can be the mommy and daddy!” Suzie exclaimed with excitement.

Shu and Sara looked at each other and smiled. They agreed to play house with Suzie and Soon. Lala Ru played the aunt, while Sara and Shu played the parents. Shu was kind of embarrassed, but could not complain. He was having a lot of fun, especially after everything that has happened. By the time they were finished playing the sun was beginning to set. Lala Ru looked at Suzie and Soon.

“Would you want to come and watch the sunset with me?” Lala Ru asked Suzie and Soon.

Shu and Sara watched Soon and Suzie walk over to the boulder to watch the sunset. Shu could remember watching sunset with Lala Ru and smiled. Despite everything that has happened Shu found that there were really always at least a few happy times. Shu smiled at the thought.

Sara and Shu walked into the house together. Sis was cooking and some of the children were already setting the table. Sara went over and helped Sis with the cooking and Shu decided to set the table for dinner. It was not long before many of the children started to come in for dinner. Sis told the children to get cleaned up before they could have any dinner. The children quickly complied with Sis’s demands and got cleaned up. It was not long before they were down for dinner. Suzie, Lala Ru, and Soon came in while everyone were sitting down. Sis looked at them and smiled.

“Hurry now we can’t start eating without you three so go get cleaned up.” Said Sis

It took about fifteen minutes, but the three girls came down and were ready to eat. Sis looked over to Shu and spoke.

“Won’t you say the prayer Shu?” Sis asked

Shu was surprised by the request, but agreed to pray. Shu prayed for all the good things and for a blessed future. He prayed with all his heart and soul that everyone in the room would find happiness. After the prayer everyone began to eat. Shu thought the food was delicious.

After eating the meal Sis had everyone brush their teeth and get ready for bed. For once Shu felt that the day went well. He finally began to believe that he could at least save Suzie. Shu swore to himself as he went to bed that thing would only get better. Shu gently fell asleep. He dreamt of Suzie, Soon, Lala Ru, and Sara. They all were smiling as they ran through a sea of flowers. Shu smiled in his sleep. Everything was quiet and at peace.

[mastertae]

Meanwhile in Helywood, Sarang lay in her bunk. She wondered how little Suzie and Sara were doing. She also began to notice a great change in her brother Tabool. Tabool was only a year younger then her, but she carried his best friend’s child. Sarang remembered Tabool’s friend. It was Nabuca. She had always had a crush on him, but now she despised him. She carried his child. A child she hated with all her heart. Now she wondered if she was wrong all along. A tear rolled down her cheek as she thought of Nabuca. She felt bad for hating him. He must have gone through so much with no one to comfort his pains.

Kame walked over to Sarang’s bed. Sarang looked up and saw tears streaming down Kame’s eyes. Sarang did not know what to say. Of all the girls Sarang met Kame was the strongest. Sarang sat up and held Kame.

“What’s wrong?” Sarang gently asked.

Kame looked at Sarang and smiled.

“I let that boy and girl get away. I could have stopped them, but I froze. I’m all alone. Suzie was all I had left. I’m sorry for the things I said to you.” Kame replied.

Sarang hugged Kame. All of a sudden Sarang felt a sharp pain in her stomach. Sarang was having contractions. Kame looked at Sarang. She did not know what to do. Kame quickly got up and began to scream for a doctor.

“Someone, I need a doctor! Don’t worry Sarang I’m here for you.” Kame gently stated as she held Sarang’s hand.

It was not long before doctors came and took Sarang to the lab. Kame waited outside of the lab, which was also a makeshift hospital. Five hours later a doctor came out of the lab. He walked over to Kame.

“Your friend just had a baby boy. She’ll be okay. You can go in to see her if you like.” The doctor stated.

Kame walked into the lab and walked over to Sarang. Sarang was holding the small boy. Kame was surprised to see Sarang smiling. Sarang who had always stated she hated her child seemed to genuinely love her child. Kame smiled at the thought. Sarang looked at Kame and smiled as she lifted the baby for Kame to hold.

Kame held the baby boy. He was so small. Kame looked at Sarang and smiled.

“What’s the child’s name?” Kame asked.

Sarang looked at Kame and the baby.

“I named him after that boy prisoner. I named him Tabool after my brother. I know Tabool isn’t the same person he once was, but he was a good person at one time. That’s why I chose the name Tabool.” Sarang answered.

A doctor entered and came over to Sarang and Kame.

“I’ll have to take the baby to the nursery and I think Sarang needs to rest for the time being.” The doctor gently stated.

Kame understood and left the lab. She went back to her bunk and lay down. She put her hand on her own bulging stomach. She hoped she could be as strong and as accepting as Sarang. Kame smiled as she fell asleep. She dreamt of Sarang’s and her child playing together in a meadow.

Meanwhile Sarang lay in the lab bed. She too dreamt of her child and Kame’s child. She also remembered Sara and the boy prisoner. She hoped that they were all well. Then her dream went to Suzie. She could see Suzie smiling and playing. For once Sarang felt that things would be okay. Sarang smiled as she lay asleep.

While Sarang and Kame slept Nabuca remained awake. He just got the news that his child was born. Nabuca was ordered to remain in his cell and was not allowed to go see his child at the moment as a punishment for allowing Shu and Lala Ru to escape. Nabuca took all the blame, because he did not want to see Boo get hurt. Nabuca looked at Boo, who was sleeping peacefully. Nabuca also wondered what Tabool was thinking now that he knew his sister had his child. Nabuca hoped that Tabools outlook would change. For the rest of the night Nabuca dreamt of his childhood, when he, Tabool, and Sarang use to go play in the field. Everything was so peaceful.

Nabuca was also a wake at the time. When he learned of his sister’s pregnancy he became even angrier with Nabuca. A part of Nabuca though felt bad for thinking these thoughts, but something inside him felt angry and lost. Nabuca wondered for the rest of the night if it was possible for him to change. He soon fell asleep and dreamt of how he and Nabuca use to always compete against each other. He always lost, but he still could remember that it was a happier time.

Boo also dreamt happy dreams. Shu had given him more hope for a better future. Boo dreamt of a future with not wars, killing, or famine. He dreamt that everyone was living happily. He dreamt of his mother and his father. Boo for once felt as if things were looking up. Boo dreamt of peace and happiness. Boo hoped in his dreams that everything bad happened would just fade away into nothingness. Boo, Nabuca, Sarang, and Kame all dreamt peaceful thoughts.

[mastertae]

Chapter 11: Scarred

“I felt so cold and alone then you appeared like an angel holding me in your arm. I’ve finally felt the warmth and love of a human heart.”

Shu woke up from a loud commotion downstairs. Shu went down to see what the noise was. It was Sis arguing with the same young man from when he entered into Zari-Bars. Shu saw Lala Ru hiding behind Sis.

“Why didn’t you say anything about this being Lala Ru,” the man shouted!

“There was no need to mention who she is. She’s only a child! What does it matter to you,” Sis angrily replied.

“We can use that girl as a bargaining tool! Maybe we can bargain with Abelia! Many people will be saved,” The man shouted in return.

The man grabbed and tried to pull Lala Ru towards him, but Sis quickly went up stairs and came back down with a rifle.

“You’ll let her go! As long as she’s in my care I consider her one of my children and I’ll never let anyone take one of my children,” Sis shouted!
All of a sudden there was another man who ran into the house. The man was clearly out of breath as he breathed heavily.

“Sis, a soldier was captured trying to get into the village!” the man shouted as he gasped for air.

Sis and the young man quickly ran outside. Sis had brought her rifle. They went to an area outside of the village’s entrance. There were a group of men surrounding another man. Sara was there as well. Shu could tell that Sara’s hands were trembling. Shu went through the crowd and saw a man on his knees. Shu’s eyes widened with surprise. It was the doctor that had violated him in the lab. Shu’s hands trembled as he clenched his hand into a fist.

“We need to help this man he’s dehydrated and injured,” Sis shouted!

“It’s on thing helping little children, but this is a grown man who was a member of Helywood! We can’t just let him in the village,” a young man shouted!

Shu could not take it anymore. Shu rushed in and grabbed Sis’s rifle and pointed it at the man’s head.

“You’re the doctor that did this to me and Sara,” Shu screamed!

Shu pulled the trigger of the rifle. Click! The gun did not go off. The rifle did not have any cartridges in it. Sara ran over and snatched the gun from Shu’s hand and threw it on the ground. Shu fell to his knees and began to cry. Sara went and hugged Shu. Tears began to fall from her eyes as well. Shu stood back up and looked at his hands. Shu was astonished that he was willing to commit murder.

“Sis, when will the doctor have the blood test done,” asked Shu?

Before Sis could answer the prisoner spoke.

“That’s not necessary. The child is yours,” said the prisoner as he turned his eyes away from Shu.

“Why would you do this to us?” Sara asked.

The man looked at Sara and replied, “I’m truly sorry, but you have to understand I did what I had to in order to survive.”

Shu walked towards the prisoner. His eyes were cold with hatred. Shu never felt this angry before.

“You took our childhood away and you expect forgiveness!” Shu shouted.
Sara was surprised at Shu’s tone of voice. She did not expect Shu to lose his cool so much. She remembered that it was Shu who had always been strong, but at this very moment she knew that she had to be strong for both of them. Shu stared at the man for several more second, but then walked off.
Before Shu even realized it he was in the cavern that contained the water supply. Shu looked around and saw many small jagged rocks. Shu picked up one of the rocks. The rock had a sharp point and a jagged sharp edge. Shu closed his eyes as he placed the edge of the rock on his wrist. Shu breathed in deeply and exhaled. As soon as Shu was about to cut into his wrist he felt someone smack him in the face. Shu dropped the rock. Shu opened his eyes to see Sara staring angrily at him.

“Was everything you told me a lie,” Sara screamed as tears fell from her eyes?

Shu looked at Sara. She was right. He always said that as long as people were alive then good things would happen, but here he was fixing to end his own life. Sara went over and hugged Shu.

“Can’t you see that I need you? You were always the strong one and I can’t do this without you,” said Sara.

Shu knew that Sara was right. He knew that he had to be there for Sara and the child more then ever.

“I’m sorry. I was being selfish,” said Shu.

Sara smiled. Shu and Sara walked out of the cave together. Shu and Sara walked back to Sis’s house. When they entered the building they saw a group of young men, some of the elders of the village, and Sis. Sis was arguing her case for keeping Lala Ru. Shu and Sara also learned that they had decided to allow the prisoner to stay in Zari-Bars for the time being. The young men tried to argue their case of negotiating with Abelia by using Lala Ru.
Eventually though their arguments against Lala Ru fell apart as the elders and women all agreed that Lala Ru was just a child and should not be used as a bargaining tool. After the decision the young men left the room grudgingly. Sis walked over to Sara and Shu and smiled.

“I’m glad you two are feeling better, especially you Sara,” said Sis.
Shu looked at Sis then at Sara. He did not know what they were talking about. Sara touched Shu’s arm.

“Sis caught me in the restroom while trying to force an abortion. It was that same night I cut my hair,” said Sara.

Shu looked at the floor. He felt bad for being so selfish. All this time he’s been thinking of his own pains and suffering that he forgot that there were other people around him suffering as well.

“I’m sorry. I was being selfish. It’s my fault that you…” Shu was suddenly cut sort by Sis.

“Why do you try to carry everyone’s burden yourself? Shu we’re here for each other. We created this village to create a safe haven for people just like you and Sara. You don’t have to blame yourself. It wasn’t your fault,” said Sis.

Shu knew that Sis was right, but he could not help, but to feel partially responsible for the things that happened. Soon and Suzie entered the house. Shu remembered that he had told Sis that he would tell Soon the truth. Shu’s hands trembled as he slowly walked towards Soon.

“Soon would you like to take a walk with me,” Shu gently asked.

Soon looked at Shu and smiled. Shu wondered how long that smile would last.

“Okay,” said Soon.

Shu and Soon took a walk outside. Soon stopped and looked at the flowers. The flowers were very pretty. Shu smiled as he plucked one of the flowers and placed it Soon’s hair.

“We have to talk about your father,” Shu gently stated.

Soon looked down at the ground. It was clear that she was no longer smiling. Shu took in a deep breath. He could not forget the image of Abelia shooting Soon’s father. Shu trembled as he spoke.

“I don’t know how to say this, but I saw your father,” said Shu.

Shu’s voice had cracked. Soon looked up and could see tears in his eyes. Soon knew then that something was wrong.

“He’s not coming home is he?”

The question Soon asked pierced his heart. Soon grabbed Shu and hugged him. She was in tears.

“I’m so sorry. I tried to save him Soon, but I failed. I know it hurts, but you have to know that your father loves you and even though his body is gone his spirit still lives inside of you. I promise though that I’ll take care of you. I’ll be your big brother for now on and I’ll protect you,” Shu stated.

Soon looked up at Shu and saw that Shu was crying too. Something about Shu’s tears made Soon stop crying. She knew then that even though her father was gone that she still had a family who cared for her. Even though Shu’s words did not take away her pains the thought of Shu as her big brother comforted her. Soon continued hug Shu and the tears kept flowing.

“It’s okay to cry,” whispered Shu.

Soon soon fell asleep in Shu’s arms. Shu gently picked Soon up and carried her back to her bed. Shu gently laid her down and placed a blanket over her. Shu then felt someone touch his shoulder. It was Sara.

“You really would make a good father,” Sara stated.

“I hope so, but we’re both so young. I’m scared Sara,” Shu replied.

“It’s okay. I’m scared too. The doctor told me that, because I’m so young that there’s a greater chance for me to miscarriage or I could even die,” said Sara.

Shu looked up at Sara and smiled. Shu then got up and walked his bed. Shu lay in his bed awake. Shu slowly drifted to sleep. He hoped that things would be different.

While everyone in Zari-Bars laid asleep the former doctor of Helywood silently snuck pass a sleeping guard. He slowly walked out of the village and set up a homing beacon in the rocks. He had just alerted Abelia of Zari-Bar’s location. The doctor felt guilt for what he was about to do, but felt that it was the only way. The prisoner doctor pressed a red button, which activated the homing beacon.

It was not long before Abelia received word that Zari-Bars had been located. A smile crept across her face. She could finally get her revenge. She could finally build a new world, where men would become slaves to women. There was then a knock on her door.

“Come in,” said Abelia.

It was Hamdo. His eyes were wide with excitement.

“My queen Helywood can take flight by tomorrow afternoon,” Hamdo said with a wide grin.

Abelia walked over to Hamdo and gave him a kiss. Tomorrow she was going to finally attack Zari-Bars.

“Tomorrow will be the beginning of a new world order. My queen no man will ever hurt you again,” Hamdo whispered into Abelia’s ear.

“Tomorrow we attack Zari-Bars,” Abelia stated.

That night Abelia could not sleep. She remembered the time when she was violated and how it was Hamdo who had found her in the streets. From that day on she swore that she would create a new world. She would create a world where women were in control and men would be nothing, but cattle. She smiled at the idea of this new world. She finally felt invincible. Nothing would stand in her way.

[mastertae]

Chapter 12: Frustration

“Why does it seem that every time I take one step forward I find myself going two steps back.”

Abelia woke up early in the morning. A smile formed on her face. It was a new day and today she would finally take over Zari-Bars. There was a light beep at the phone next to her bed. Abelia quickly picked it up.

“This is Abelia,” said Abelia over the receiver.

“The engines are online and ready. We have already set the coordinates towards Zari-Bars,” said a soft voice.

“Very well I want all the soldiers ready to attack and capture Zari-Bars,” Abelia replied.

Abelia then hung-up the phone and got dressed. Abelia walked over towards her desk, but was startled to see Hamdo sitting in her chair with his feet propped up on the desk. In his hand he held a gun at Abelia. Hamdo eyes were wide and he had a wide grin on his face.

“Hamdo what is the meaning of this,” Abelia asked?

“Isn’t it obvious my queen? You played your part well, but I’m afraid that I have no use for you anymore,” Hamdo replied.

Abelia was speechless. She never expected to be betrayed by the one man she trusted.

“Why are you doing this? You told me when you found me that you would help me to create a perfect new world,” Abelia stated as she began to become hysterical.

Hamdo grin seemed to get larger.

“That’s right I did find you beaten and violated, but then again it wasn’t hard finding you as I was the one who hired that man,” Hamdo replied with a laugh.

Abelia could not believe what she was hearing. She quickly fell to her knees and and grabbed her hair. The one man she trusted was the one who created all the angst in her life.

“You see all this has happened before! I was once the leader of Helywood, but all my plans were ruined and I even thought I was dead, but something glorious has happened! I got another chance to reach my goal,” Hamdo stated with a loud voice.

Abelia looked at Hamdo as if he went crazy. She did not understand what Hamdo was talking about. She thought then that maybe Hamdo had finally lost it.

“You’re insane! How can you have been the leader of Helywood if Helywood didn’t exist before,” Abelia asked.

Hamdo stood up from the chair and walked over to Abelia. He placed his hand on her cheek. Even though Abelia felt betrayed she found herself still wanting to be with Hamdo.

“My dear Abelia I will make you my queen,” Hamdo whispered into her ear.

Abelia looked up at Hamdo. Tears were falling from here eyes.

“You’re not going to kill me,” Abelia asked?

Hamdo smiled and gently kissed Abelia. Abelia found herself closing her eyes. She no longer knew what to think. Despite Hamdo’s betrayal Abelia found that she still loved him.

“Of course I won’t kill you. You’re too valuable for me to lose,” Hamdo stated.

Abelia was confused. It was not long before two boys came in holding guns. She remembered them as Nabuca and Tabool. She looked at them as tears streamed down her face. When she saw them she saw small children being forced to do things they never wanted to do. Guilt entered her heart when she realized what she had done. She took these children’s innocence away and now they were betraying her.

“How ironic,” Abelia whispered to herself.

“She’s to stay in her quarters and I want two guards guarding her at all times,” Hamdo ordered the boys.

Hamdo quickly went to the microphone and spoke into it. His voice was loud and clear over the intercom.

“This is Hamdo speaking. Due to some unforeseen circumstances I will now be in charge of Helywood. We will proceed as planned towards Zari-Bars.

A female soldier entered Abelia’s quarters. She was very young with long brown hair.

“I was told to tell you that we’ll be arriving in Zari-Bars in approximately ten minutes,” the girl stated to Hamdo.

Hambo had a large grin on his face and his eyes widened when he heard the news. Everything was going as planned. He would finally get revenge on the boy who had defeated him before. He still had the memories from his defeat and those memories had been slowing eating at his mind. Ever since he learned he was still alive he had swore to find away to exact his revenge. The time was fast approaching.

“Prepare all the troops,” Hamdo commanded the girl.

The girl nodded and left the room.

It was not long before Helywood was finally mobile and began its journey towards Zari-Bars.

As Helywood slowly mad its trek towards Zari-Bars Shu and Sara were both doing laundry outside. To them everything seemed to be well. The weather was sunny and warm, but was not overly hot. Shu looked at Sara and smiled. He hoped that times like these would last a life time. As the two went back to do the laundry they could see a man walking towards them. It was the prisoner they had caught before. When the man reached them his face was pale and he seemed withdrawn. He looked at Sara and Shu and tried to give a smile.

“We have to get out of here,” said the man.

Shu and Sara both looked at the man. This was the man who had violated them and now this man wanted them to go with him. Shu walked toward the man and looked him in the eyes.

“You betrayed this village,” asked Shu?

When the man looked away Shu and Sara knew the answer.

“We have to warn the others,” Shu replied to the man.

The man looked up. He was surprised by Shu’s answer.

“If you warn the others you’ll be captured,” the man stated.

This time it was Sara who walked over to the man. Sara then slapped the man on his cheek.

“Only a coward would run,” Sara replied.

With those words Shu and Sara quickly ran into the house and explained to Sis what they had learned. As they started to explain to her the prisoner’s betrayal one of the younger men busted through the door. He was with a group of armed men. Lala Ru came down stairs to see what the commotion was about.

“Helywood has been spotted coming towards the village,” yelled the man.

Sis looked at the man and could see the anger in his eyes.

“How far from the village is it,” asked Sis.

The man was clearly annoyed by Sis’ question.

“We have about an hour or two at the most before it reaches out village,” the man replied.

“Then we’ll have a meeting in the center of town. Shu and Sara can you watch the children,” asked Sis.

The man grabbed Lala Ru. Shu and Sara went to help their friend, but Sis quickly stopped them.

“Why do you need Lala Ru for?” Sis asked the two men calmly.

“We can use her as a bargaining tool with Queen Abelia. Maybe she will spare us,” said the man.

Sis went to protest, but one of the town’s elders interrupted her.

“Sis let us not be too hasty. If there is a chance to save the life of many don’t you think the sacrifice of one person is enough?” said the elderly woman.

“Sis was angry, but she could not argue. She knew that by the laws of Zari-Bars that she had to file a complaint at the town meeting. Sis then looked at Sara and Shu.

“Don’t worry I’ll make sure nothing happens to Lala Ru,” said Sis as calmly as she could.

Shu and Sara watched as Sis and Lala Ru were taken out of the house. Some of the children had come downstairs after hearing the commotion. Sara looked at the children, but didn’t see Soon or Suzie.

“Soon and Suzie are missing,” said Sara

Shu looked at the children. Many of them were frightened and scared.

“Sara take them to the cave and go hide. I’ll go find Sara and Suzie,”replied Shu.

Shu left to go find Sara and Suzie.

[mastertae]

I added part of chapter 12 sorry for the slow post, but it's been taking a while since I've been busy with my essays for my political science classes

[mastertae]

I finally have a break...lol...anyways I started to write again. My book I'm working on seems to be going well. I've even spoke to a few publishers already. Hopefully everything will go well so wish me luck. : )

[mastertae]

Chapter 13: Trust and Betrayal

“Something is coming. It’s so dark and creepy. I can feel it’s breath upon my neck. It’s so dark. So dark and creepy…”

Sis and Lala Ru were forced on top of a hill. A crowed had gathered and Lala Ru could hear the murmuring of the growing crowd.

“Listen to me everyone! Helywood is on the way here, but don’t worry if we give this girl to them I’m sure that Queen Abelia will let us all live! This is our chance!” yelled the man to the crowd.

The murmuring in the crowd grew louder. It seemed as if the man was winning the argument of handing Lala Ru to Abelia, but then an elderly man walked towards the hill. It was the doctor who had treated Sara and Shu when they first got to Zari Bars.

“I heard the news too, but handing over a child to the likes of Abelia is no solution. There has to be another way,” said the doctor.

The man looked at the doctor and sneered. He quickly pulled out a pistol he had been carrying in his pants and pointed it at the doctor. The doctor looked at the man and was clearly stunned by what he was doing.

“Have you gone mad?” The doctor asked in a calm voice. It was not enough though. The man pulled the trigger and the doctor fell to the ground. It was then that someone yelled from the crowd that Helywood was coming straight towards the village. They were wrong about the time of Helywood’s arrival. It only took the large fortress ten minutes, before it was within their territory. The people in Zari Bars began to panic. Everyone was running in every direction to get away. The man looked at Sis and pushed her to the ground. He quickly grabbed Lala Ru and ran off towards Hellywood.

Shu found himself having trouble looking for Soon and Suzie with everyone running around like ants panicking in a rainstorm. He tripped and fell to the ground as he ran towards the hill. He looked down and saw the doctor laying dead. Shu felt that he was beginning to panic, but managed to remain calm. He finally walked up the hill and saw Sis laying down clenching her fist to her chest. Shu ran up and held her in his arms. Sis was dying of a heart attack. Tears began to roll down his cheeks. He had failed to save two more people.

Sis looked at Shu and smiled. She gently wiped the tears from his face as she took her final breath. Shu gently laid Sis on the ground and kissed her on the cheek. In the distance Shu could hear two girls crying. Shu quickly realized that it was Soon and Suzie.

[mastertae]

Shu also noticed Helywood was now in the village. In the distance he could see a group of young boys and girls coming toward Zari Bars. Shu then new he had to get to Soon and Suzie first. He quickly ran towards the sound of their cries.

It didn’t take long before he found Suzie hiding in a closet, but Shu quickly noticed that Soon was not there. Shu turned around to see if Soon was there, but instead he found the barrel of a gun pointing to his face. It was Nabuca. Boo stood behind Nabuca.

“Please, let us go.”

Nabuca looked at Shu. His eyes were cold and emotionless. Shu made eye contact with Boo. Boo then let out a loud scream for Nabuca to stop and threw his gun down to the ground.

“I can’t do this. We killed a man who had a daughter. I want to see my mommy!” Tears rolled down Boo’s cheeks.

Shu realized that this was about the point of time that Boo and Soon both died. Shu closed his eyes waiting for the inevitable. Shu heard a loud bang and opened his eyes. He was astonished to find that the doctor who had impregnated Sara with his child had jumped in front of the gun. Soon and Boo were both alive. Shu walked over to the man and lifted his head.

“Why? Why did you save them,” Shu asked as tears streamed down his face.

The man gave a small chuckle. “I guess I was hoping for a little redemption.” The man’s eyes closed as he took on last breath.

Soon dropped the gun and ran over to Shu and began to cry. Shu felt a hard hit to the head and everything went dark.

Hamdo stood on a large cliff as a man held Lala Ru with a gun to her head. Hamdo looked at the man and smiled.

“If you leave Zari Bars I’ll give you the girl. This is what you wanted isn’t it,” asked the man?

“After all the trouble that this place has caused me you really expect to negotiate with a man willing to betray his people? Sorry, but I rather see you dead.” With those words a group of soldiers fired at the man. The man then knew he had made a grave mistake and threw Lala Ru out of the way of the firing bullets. The man was shot numerous times before falling to the ground dead.

Hamdo then ordered the soldiers to begin gathering all the children and to have Lala Ru taken to his quarters. For once everything was falling into place. This time he would make sure things went his way.

[mastertae]

I'm almost done with this story. I have one or two chapters left...and I'll write an alternate ending for it as well. Chapter 13 was fairly short, but that's okay since this wasn't meant to be as long as it turned out to be lol : P

[mastertae]

Chapter 14: The Sorrowful End

“When I die will people cry for me? Will they remember me or will I become a whisper in the breeze”

Nabuca stood and looked out over the rail. He could see various devices that powered the ship. The humming and dings of the devices seemed to soothe his soul, but in his mind Nabuca found himself troubled by the thoughts of Boo. He had no choice, but to arrest Boo and place him in a cell.

Nabuca gently whispered “Have I become a monster?”

In the distance Nabuca could hear some footsteps. He looked up and saw Tabool coming towards him. Tabool looked at Nabuca and smiled.

“We finally did it.” Tabool said with a large grin.

“Yeah, we can finally go home,” replied Nabuca.

Tabool looked at Nabuca and sneered.

“Home, don’t be so naïve. There is not home to go back to. I know I saw the explosives placed in our homes. No, this is a new chance for a greater world! I’ll go up in the ranks and I’ll eventually be the one to rule this place!” Tabool said with a large grin.

Tabool pulled out a knife and stabbed Nabuca in the stomach. Nabuca looked at Tabool and then looked behind Tabool.

“Why are you smiling,” asked Tabool?

Tabool then turned around as Nabuca fell over the railing. Standing behind him was his sister Sarang. In her hand she was holding a small child. She had hoped to show Tabool and Nabuca the baby, but instead she stood in horror as tears fell down her cheeks.

Tabool fell to his knees. He had not seen his sister in so long and now he was staring at her face to face. Tears streamed down his face. He had been blinded by his own ambitions that he killed his best friend. Tabool all of a sudden found himself thinking of the boy prisoner.

“What have I done,” whispered Tabool?

Tabool let out a loud cry as his sister came up to him and hugged him. Tabool got up and looked at his sister.

“I have to go.” Tabool walked away from his sister as she slowly became a small speck. With the memories of Nabuca in his mind he decided to free the prisoners.

Nabuca meanwhile had managed to grab onto something and pulled himself up. He slowly made his way toward Shu and Boo. He decided then that he would save them.

[mastertae]

This is the beginning of chapter 14.