Virtuous Lies

An Argentrooper Chronicle Silvanus S-gar Prince

Works By S. S. Prince Nytheun Annals Ymd Eras Of Miashunes & The Epithecesh The Lay Of The Epithecesh Of Heynoch Thuntmutz Crimson Night The Crystal Tower Finishing The Job Exiles From Terror Possession Shadow Song Truths Weve Sold The Death Of A Duke Oracle Awakes Argentrooper Chronicles The Sweet Decay Virtuous Lies Catastrophically Content Philosophical Essays Rants From A Nihilist Existence - An Exploration Syllogisms For A New World Short Stories The Little House Behind My Old Garage

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when frightened by change serenity clings to my sleep and wonders remain their world will inherit its meek so wickeds the taste you feel when the mysteries arise ive fallen from grace because of her treacherous eyes you dont know so alone and thats why im coming home and beautys disdain attends to those virtuous lies she tries to restrain the ardent and amorous eyes so wickeds the taste you feel when the mysteries arise ive fallen from grace because of her treacherous eyes you dont know so alone and thats why im coming home

Coming Home The Tea Party

Burhdonton Mildthryth III, Keldatun Dukedom Imperial Date: Helmet 23, 2276

Gyldan Wysadal wiped up the spilt pools of ale as she had done countless times before. It was the only polish the well worn wood of the tavern table ever received. The two men who had been sitting at this particular table had just left, arm in arm singing an old Keldan drinking son. Gyldan had laughed, as had the rest of the patrons in the tavern when the two men had departed. However she then set to work cleaning up after them. She had been working in the tavern now for over ten years and had become a favoured waitress of most patrons. This was not only due to her beauty, but also because she took no bull from anyone and often played referee or bouncer when certain patrons got out of hand after one too many drinks. Gyldan had long golden coloured hair which she often wore loose. She wore a black blouse and dark pants with a dark blue apron. Her eyes were green and she had a smile which could melt the hearts of most men. It was while she was cleaning the table that the black cloaked stranger entered the tavern. He sat down at an empty table across from the one Gyldan was cleaning and she felt his eyes, hidden behind a dark hood, looking at her as soon as he sat down. She was used to being looked at, some of the drunker men often stared unabashedly at her beauty. Yet she felt something different about this hooded man. There was something about him that was not the same as the usual tavern crowd. Another waitress arrived at his table and began serving him. She was unable to hear the order, however when she went back to the bar she asked the other waitress what the man had ordered. Hot cider. she shrugged, waiting patiently for Tamnais Athdara, the bartender and tavern owner, to pour the drink. Let me take it to him. Gyldan proposed. You can keep his tip, but I need to find out who

he is. Alright then, Gyldan. the other woman agreed. When the drink was ready, Gyldan carried it on her serving tray to the table where the man in the black cloak sat. Ciders a strange drink for most people who come into this tavern. she noted as she set the steaming glass of cider on the table. The man pulled back his hood revealing a chiselled face, brown eyes and long brown hair tied in a top knot. Hello Gyldan, I have missed you. Veldrich! she cried in shock. Then, almost without thinking she slapped him hard across the face, much to the immediate delight of the tavern patrons. Go on, Gyldan! one of the rowdier patrons called out. Teach im some respect! She turned round and looked at the rowdy man. Ill come over there and teach you not to meddle in the business of others! she warned. The man backed down quickly, not wanting to incur her wrath. The other patrons cheered loudly until Tamnais bellowed at them to settle down. Grudgingly they went back to their drinks. Gyldan turned her attention back to Veldrich. How dare you come in here after all these years and simply say you missed me! Veldrich stifled a laugh, not wanting to increase her displeasure. Alright, let me start over. He paused for a moment. Hello Gyldan, it is good to see you again. What do you want? she demanded, her tone icy. I was passing by and thought I would stop in and say hello to an old friend. We were much more then just old friends. she shot. Yes, and I wish I had been able to return here sooner. he lamented softly. So, what do you want? she demanded again. Demefre is back. he stated in a matter of fact tone. With the mention of that name, Gyldans mind flashed back ten years to when she had first met Veldrich. Back then, he had been a young member of the Fridu Order - an order of semireligious warriors who dedicated themselves to bringing peace to the galaxy. Veldrich had been sent to Mildthryth III to investigate rumours that the Duke of Kelda, whose family had ruled the planet and surrounding star systems for generations, was plotting to over through the Emperor. The young Fridu had been sent with his mentor, Demefre, and the two Fridu had been captured by the Dukes

guards and tortured. Demefres mind had been twisted by the Dukes telepath, an evil man named dwulf Dunstan. The mission ended with Veldrich slaying Duke Keldatun and knocking Demefre unconscious before Veldrich was forced to flee the Dukes Palace. At least that is the story Gyldan had heard as rumours of the House of Keldatuns demise circulated throughout the Duchy. Gyldan had not seen Veldrich since he had departed for the Palace and was captured. The memories were painful and she had spent the last ten years trying to forget them. Yet, now Veldrich sat before her and his presence had brought them all back to the forefront of her mind. So youve come here looking to find out what happened to him after you fled. she deduced in a irritated tone of voice. Partly. the Fridu admitted. I also wanted to see you. I wanted to know that you were alright. You were right, I never should have gone to the Palace that night. Yet, it needed to be done. Duke Keldatun needed to be stopped. And once youve found everything you are looking for, she countered, youll be gone again. Probably never to come back. Well, finish your drink and get out of here, Veldrich. Im not a young girl anymore. I have not been waiting for you. Ive moved on. I hope you have too. Gyldan turned on her heal and began walking away. It is good to see you again, Gyldan. Veldrich called after her. I am glad that you are doing well. She ignored him and simply walked past the bar and into the rear staff area. She made her way to the staff bathroom and locked the door behind her. Sitting down on the toilet seat, she broke down and cried.

Veldrich stepped out of the tavern, his own eyes slightly watered from the emotions the conversation with Gyldan had drawn up. He quickly wiped them and then walked over to where he had parked his hover-bike. Once there, he reached into his black cloak and pulled a small communications device out from under the green robes which he wore under the cloak. The Fridu turned on the comm device and set it to the proper channel. Veldrich to Captain Kort, do you read me? he transmitted his voice through the device. I read you, General. Captain Korts baritone voice replied through the comm.

Status report. Veldrich ordered. We have setup a command base in an abandoned farm house near the ruins of the Palace. The soldier reported. I am having its coordinates transmitted to you as we speak. Veldrich looked at the small view screen of the comm device and saw the data that the Argentrooper Commander had sent. I have just received them, Captain. he confirmed. Continue with your report. We should have the command post fully operational in the next ten to twenty minutes. Kort continued. I will then be dispatching the Argentscouts on a recon of the Palace Ruins. Excellent, Kort. the Fridu approved. I will meet up with you shortly. Very good, General. the Captain replied. We will await your arrival. Captain Kort, out. Veldrich out. he replied and then turned off the comm. He returned it to its place within his green robes and then climbed onto the hover-bike. He started the engine and then drove off through the city, heading for the coordinates Captain Kort had sent him.

Gyldan emerged from the back of the tavern and started cleaning another empty table. She had just pulled out her cloth from her apron when she heard Tamnais Athdara call her over to the bar. She put her cloth down and then walked over to where her boss was standing at the bar. He was an Orion who had moved to Mildthryth III fifteen years ago and had bought the tavern to keep himself occupied after retiring from the Imperial Star Navy. He was a tall, burly man with broad shoulders and a face that took no gruff from anyone. He had long orange hair which was starting to turn grey at the sides and keen green eyes which often reflected the joy and laughter he felt most of the time. Tamnais looked deep into Gyldans green eyes and he immediately saw the pain in them, as well as the hint of redness from her tears. You obviously have met that off-worlder before. he noted as he dried a pint glass. I knew him a long time ago. Gyldan admitted, sitting down on one of the bar stools. I havent seen him in ten years. One of Tamnais eyebrows shot up. Ten years ago was when Duke Keldatun was overthrown by a Fridu. And he remembered that particular Fridu had been very fond of Gyldan - and that she

had been madly in love with him. Ten years, eh? he continued in an off-hand way as he set down the dry pint glass and picked out another wet one from the dishwasher. Thats a long time. They were dark times back them, what with the crazy Duke and all. The golden haired girls face darkened. He was right, it was the Fridu she had loved so long ago. Its him, isnt it? Tamnais leaned in and whispered. Hes that Fridu who slew the Duke. Gyldan bit her lip. Veldrichs looking for answers. she explained in an even tone. A lot of bad things happened that night and he is trying to figure it out. But why after all these years? the tavern owner asked. Because one of Keldatuns servants has surfaced and is posing a threat to the Empire. Gyldan replied. You still love him, dont you? he asked gently. At first, Gyldan did not reply - unsure as she was of her own feelings for the man who had fled the planet ten years ago. I think I might. she admitted, not only to her boss but also to herself. Tamnais finished drying the pint glass he had been holding. He looked at the woman in silence as she contemplated her emotions and then he put the glass away. The Orion then reached up and pulled down a tumbler from the shelf which held the taverns glasses and set it down in front of Gyldan. The orange haired bar tender then turned around and picked up a bottle of Orion Single Malt Whiskey. He uncorked the bottle and then poured a couple of ounces of the golden coloured alcohol into the glass. Replacing the cork, Tamnais returned the bottle to its place on the shelf and then pushed the tumbler towards his waitress. Its on the house. the bartender smiled. I think you need it. The golden haired woman picked up the glass and drank the golden liquid, its thick peat taste and strong potency sending shivers down her throat. She put the glass down and shook her head, trying to clear her head. Now why dont you take the rest of the night off. Tamnais suggested. We can manage here. You need to clear your head and figure out where you stand with this Fridu friend of yours. Thank you, Tamnais. Gyldan nodded. Youre right, I need to figure some things out. With that, she got up from the stool, returned to the back of the tavern and retrieved her few belongings. She then left the tavern, the events of the night - and their implications both for her personally and for the Empire - still spinning through her mind.

The farmhouse was located some five kilometres from the gates of Burh Kelda, the former palace of Duke Keldatun. It had been recently vacated by its inhabitants and had stood empty for perhaps six months before Veldrichs Argentroopers had appropriated it as a base of operations here on Mildthryth III. Captain Kort had supervised the efficient setup of the necessary equipment to make the farmhouse a fully functional field command base for his unit. The main floor of the house had four rooms: a living room on the front right side; a dinning room on the front left side; a kitchen at the back left side and a large pantry on the back right side. A small foyer was set just inside the main door at the front of the house with a stairwell leading up to the bedrooms. The living room had been converted into a communications centre manned by Lieutenant Hildard and two other Argentroopers. The dinning room was a command and control centre complete with sensor equipment and holographic battlemap display stations. The kitchen served as a mess for the unit while the pantry held additional supplies. The hover bike pulled up next to the house and Veldrich dismounted. He walked into the farmhouse and immediately found Captain Kort overseeing two other Argentroopers in the command and control room. A holographic representation of the surrounding terrain was displayed on one of the battlemap displays and the Argentrooper Commander was watching three glowing white diamonds move across the three dimensional map toward a large structure set on a hill. He looked up as Veldrich entered the room, his face cast in an electric blue glow from the hologram which glowed in front of his face. Captain Kort had the chiselled look of a soldier, with a squarish head and blue eyes. His brown hair was cropped short and he had the first hints of a five oclock shadow running along the edge of his firm jaw. The trooper wore the standard armoured uniform of the Argentrooper Corps, the silver full exo-skeletal armour, though his helmet - with its distinctive diamond shaped visor - sat on a nearby desk. Korts armour bore the royal blue chest and leg stripes denoting his unit and a black pauldron which hung from his left shoulder denoted his rank. Well, Captain, Veldrich asked, what have you discovered so far? The Argentscouts are only now arriving at the gates of Burh Kelda, General. the trooper reported. We have completed a preliminary sensor sweep of the building and its immediate grounds and have detected no signs of life. It appears as if the building has been left abandoned since Duke

Keldatun was killed. In fact, we have found local reports - both from local government and local media sources - that state that no one has entered the building for ten years. I would imagine that it is in poor repair due to the effects of the elements and the lack of maintenance. How long until the Argentscouts make their first report? the Fridu asked, looking at the holographic map and noting the positions of the three scouts. They will perform a preliminary sweep of the area to confirm our sensor readings. Captain Kort explained. That should take about ten to twenty minutes. We should receive their first report after that. Excellent. Veldrich nodded. Are there cots upstairs? Yes sir. the Argentrooper confirmed. Good. I am going to rest for a while. Wake me when the Argentscouts begin to report in. Very good, General. Kort replied. Veldrich headed upstairs and found a cot in one of the farmhouse bedrooms. He lay down and quickly fell into a deep meditative sleep. A quarter of an hour later, one of the Argentroopers was shaking the Fridu awake. The Argentscouts are beginning to report, General. the Trooper informed him. Thank you. Veldrich replied. He stood up and followed the silver-armoured soldier back downstairs and into the command and control centre. Captain Kort was standing again at the holographic display which now depicted a three dimensional image of the ruined courtyard of Burh Kelda. As Veldrich approached the display he could see that most of the palaces structure was fairly intact as it had been constructed from stone. All of the windows of the main palace building were either broken or missing entirely and he could see that most of the outbuildings were ruined beyond recognition. Well, Captain? he asked the Argentrooper commander. The Argentscouts have confirmed the information we received from our sensor scan. Kort reported. There is no one living in the palace. Most of it is in ruins, but there are a few rooms in the middle of the main structure which are still in good condition. There is very little left in any of the rooms, at most broken furniture or dishes. As of yet, the Argentscouts have found nothing significant. It is as I expected, Kort. the Fridu nodded. Let the Argentscouts continue to survey the site and report anything of significance they find to me. Of course, General. the soldier replied. What will you do?

I will head back to Burhdontun. Veldrich explained. There is one person there who might have answers to some of my questions. I will report back here when I am finished. Yes General. Kort saluted. Veldrich left the command and control centre and went back outside. He got back on the hover bike and drove down the country lane, back to the city in the distance.

The Temple of Taran was located on the west side of Burhdontun on a street occupied by townhouses and small shops. It had been constructed on a large lot that occupied and entire city block. The temples courtyard was shadowed by ancient willow trees which swayed as if in a dream in the gentle night breeze. The facade of the temple was encased in copper which had long ago tarnished into a dull green colour. There were columns of wood which had turned grey with age and neglect and the great doorway to the temple itself showed a number of cracks and dents in its copper covering. Though these dents and cracks marred the surface of the door, you could still make out the faded symbol of the Order of Taran etched into the copper: a hand holding a glowing rod on a black circle. Cautiously, Veldrich ascended the short flight of stairs which led to the door - careful to step around one section which was missing its granite step. Once at the top of the stairs, he opened the doors of the temple and stepped inside. The foyer of the building was in little better shape then the exterior. And from all indications, the rest of the interior of the temple was also in a state of neglect. There was an old carpet that Veldrich knew had once been red velvet but was so stained it looked brown and black in the orange light of the foyer. The paint on the walls was peeling in many places and the Fridu noticed a number of large cracks which ran from the ceiling down to the floor. Though he was saddened by the neglected state of the structure, he continued through a doorway into the sanctuary. Veldrich knew the layout of the temple intimately. His father had been a Priest of Taran and he had grown up listening to his fathers sermons and participating in the churchs rituals. The Fridus childhood home had been the rectory of the Temple his father worked in on Vega V. Needless to say, his father had expected his son to join the Order of Taran when he was of suitable

age. Yet Veldrich had always had misgivings about the theology of the Order and much of its dogma. When the young Veldrich first announced to his father that he had been accepted as an Initiate in the Order of the Fridu, his father was more than disappointed. From that day forward, Veldrich and his father had spoken very little to each other. In fact, it had probably been at least six years since the Fridu had spoken with his father. Putting the thoughts of his childhood aside, Veldrich walked down the central aisle of the sanctuary. For a moment he stopped in front of the altar, which stood on a dais that was a quarter metre higher then the rest of the room. The altar cloth, which was bright red and depicted the symbol of the order in its centre, was the first thing in the temple that the Fridu had seen that was not in need of replacement or repair. He only tarried for a few moments and then he turned to his left, walking past the altar and through a door that was set on the side of the dais. He entered a short hallway with four doors - two on either side. Without hesitating, Veldrich walked to the second door on the right and knocked politely on the door. Just a moment. a womans voice called through the threshold. The Fridu heard the sound of someone walking and then the rattle of the old metal door handle. The wood door swung open to reveal an older woman with greying hair and wearing red robes. She had intense blue eyes and a face that still showed its beauty. A surprised expression washed across that face as the woman saw the man standing outside of her door. By Tarans roar, could that be Veldrich Iwdl at my door on this night? It has been a long time lfscenee. the Fridu smiled warmly. Come in! Come in! the elderly cleric cried, leading him into her sitting room. The room had not changed in the decade since Veldrich had last visited. In fact, it was the best kept room the Fridu had seen in the temple thus far. lfscenee ushered him to one of the chairs. You will of course have some tea. she assumed. Of course. he smiled again. lfscenee went into the kitchen, which was located through a doorway opposite of the one the Fridu had come through when he entered the apartment. There was a small bookcase across from where he sat as well as two other chairs and a large coffee table. The bookcase held a number of theological works as well as some philosophical and mystical texts on various subjects. lfscenee returned to the sitting room shortly carrying a small tray with two mugs, a tea pot,

as well as cream and sugar. She put it down on the coffee table and then took a seat across from Veldrich. Taran works in mysterious ways. the cleric noted. I was just, this afternoon, talking with your father. Veldrich was surprised at the odd coincidence. However, he did not let his mind dwell on it too long. And how was my father? he politely asked. Doing well, by the sounds of things. lfscenee surmised. We were talking about business regarding our Order. Nothing you would be too terribly interested in, my dear. No probably not. the Fridu admitted. lfscenee bent over slightly and began pouring the tea. Sugar and lots of cream, right:? she asked, trying to remember how he like it. Yes, thank you lfscenee. The cleric fixed the tea and then passed Veldrich his mug. Now tell me, Veldrich, what are you doing here? It seems to me that you were not just in the neighbourhood and you stopped by for a social visit. You know me too well, lfscenee. the Fridu complimented his host. Demefre has surfaced and is threatening the Imperium. lfscenee had been about to sip her tea just at that moment and Veldrichs statement seemed to catch her off guard. She took a quick sip of her tip as an expression of fear crossed her face, however it was quickly replaced by one of surprise. Veldrich, though, had noticed the first expression but decided not to say anything about it. Do you know what ever happened to dwulf Dunstan? he asked in stead. Again, an expression of fear quickly crossed lfscenees beautiful face which Veldrich saw as well. This time, though, it was replaced by one of confusion. Dunstan came to see me after the Duke was slain. she began to explain. I told him never to leave and never come and see me again. I wanted nothing to do with his schemes. That is the last time I saw him. Rumours around the city said that he nursed Demefre back to health, somewhere hidden away. After that, they returned to Burh Kelda and stripped it of any valuables. The rumours say the two left Mildthryth just after that. Where they went is anyones guess. And Dunstan or Demefre have not tried to contact you since then? the Fridu asked and then took a sip of his tea.

No, thank Taran. the cleric prayed. Did Dunstan say what he wanted? Shelter, firstly. lfscenee replied, taking another sip of her tea. But then he started talking about helping him avenge the death of the Duke. What did you tell him? I told him that I am a Priestess of Taran and can not condone acts of vengeance. she related. I told him that even though the Duke was my brother, my faith came first. I would not jeopardize my position within the Order for some mundane vengeance. And he has not tried to contact you again? Veldrich wanted to clarify. No. lfscenee sated with finality. The Fridu finished his tea and then stood up. Well, it has been so good to see you again, lfscenee. Yes, dear the old cleric smiled, standing up and giving Veldrich a hug. May Taran watch over your steps. I know he is watching over yours. Veldrich replied. Take care, lfscenee And you look after yourself, Veldrich. lfscenee insisted. I will. he smiled warmly. And if you talk with my father again, say hello for me. I will do that, dear. lfscenee smiled as she opened her door for him. Goodbye, Veldrich. Goodbye, lfscenee. he nodded and then turned and walked back down the hallway toward the sanctuary. He heard lfscenees door close as he went over the conversation again in his mind. He stepped through the door at the end of the hall and back into the sanctuary. Again, he stopped in front of the altar, this time curiosity halting his steps. He stepped up onto the dais and walked around to the back of the altar. Everything seemed to be in order according to what he had learned as a child in his fathers temple, however he sensed that something was amiss. He centred his mind, as he had been taught by the Fridu elders while he had been an initiate, and he sent out his thoughts onto the surface of the altar. After a few moments of steady concentration, a form began to glow on the back side of the altar. A nine pointed star with a circle etched in its centre glowed in a green luminescence in Veldrichs minds eye. He had seen the symbol before, etched onto the armour and uniforms of the men who worked for Demefre. Veldrich

let the image fade from his mind and then quietly walked out of the temple. Once outside, he climbed onto his hover bike and drove off into the night.

The main door of the temple opened and a black cloaked figure descended the steps to the sidewalk below. It turned to the left and hurriedly made its way along the street. A few moments later, a second black cloaked figure stepped out from behind one of the willow trees in the temple yard and began to follow the first figure. The first figure kept its hooded head down, looking only at the pavement under its feet. It seemed to be following a path it had travelled many times before, for it did not hesitate at any point it traversed. However, it did weave in and around other pedestrians without slowing its pace. Most of these pedestrians seemed to take little note of the figures passage until they were passed by a second black cloaked figure moments later. However, the citizens of Mildthryth III were not an overly curious society. Most simply shrugged their shoulders and continued along their way, quickly forgetting the odd pair of cloaked figures stalking through the nighttime streets of Burhdontun. The lead figure stopped for a moment outside the window of an holographic video store. It looked around for a moment and, not seeing anything out of the ordinary, walked through the door of the store. It made its way directly to the counter at the back where a bored looking teenager with long bright green hair and several facial piercing stood behind the counter. I need to talk to Acleah. the figure stated in a womans voice. Hes out. the green haired kid replied. Then give him a message for me. the woman continued. Tell him that there is a green leaf growing in the ruins of the castle. What? the teenager asked in confusion. Just tell him, dear. the woman instructed. Acleah will understand the message. Alright then... the kid agreed, writing it down on a piece of scrap paper. When he looked back up, the black cloaked woman was gone. In her place, a black cloaked man with long brown hair stood in her place. Whoa... the teen grunted in surprise. Like, where did she go? Do not worry about where she went, son. the man told him. Just tell me what she asked

you. The teen was mesmerized by the mans brown eyes. Um... she asked if my boss was around. he stammered. When I told her that he wasnt, she gave me a message for him. the greenhaired kid passed the note to Veldrich who quickly read it and then handed it back. What is your bosss name? the Fridu asked. Acleah Niewheall. the teen answered. Thank you, son. The teen looked down to make sure he put the note for his boss in a safe place and he started to reply to the black cloaked man as he looked back up. Not a problem, du....de. shock washed over the teenagers face. Like the black cloaked woman before him, the man had disappeared. What the.... he blurted, suddenly realizing that the black cloaked woman was no longer there. His memory of the black cloaked Fridu had been erased and he simply shook his head in disbelief. Strange woman.... he muttered to himself, returning to his work.

Gyldan had at first intended to go strait home after leaving work, however her instincts soon changed. As she unlocked the door of her hover car, she felt the sudden urge to go to Dagian Gardens where she had first met Veldrich. It was a very strange feeling that had come over her, one she could not ignore but also one that filled her with a small sense of dread. In the ten years since Veldrich had fled Mildthryth III, Gyldan had made a point of going nowhere near the gardens, as they only brought back memories she had tried to forget. Now that he had suddenly walked back into her life, she followed the urge to return there. What she hoped to find, if she found anything at all, she did not know. However, she pushed the ignition button on the car and pulled out into the street, heading for Dagian Gardens. The drive took a little under twenty minutes and Gyldans mind kept reliving all the time she had spent with Veldrich ten years before. She specifically remembered how they had met. It was a beautiful spring day, the buds on all the plants had just started growing and Gyldan had the day off work. She had decided to go down to Dagian Gardens to enjoy the fragrance that were just starting to fumigate the air. She had brought a picnic lunch and a book along determined to enjoy the day,

the fresh air and her time away from the tavern. Gyldan had found a nice quiet spot near the small stream that ran through the heart of the gardens. In fact, it was a small knoll right next to the waterfall where the stream tumbled over some rocks and down into a small ravine. Her day had been quite enjoyable as she basked in the sunshine and listened to the water tumbling over the rocks nearby. She had just finished her lunch and was putting her dishes back into her picnic basked when she noticed that there was a shadow being cast over her. She turned around to see a man with short, spiky black hair and a scar running down his left cheek. He was dressed in a black sleeveless shirt and dark green canvas pants as well as tall black leather boots. However, what shocked her was the six inch knife he was pointing towards her. `Oy lady! he cried. Gimme all your jewellery, right now. Are you serious? she asked, more out of disbelief that she was being robbed in broad daylight then out of any innocence. Does it look like Im serious? he grunted. Seriously mistaken. a male voice corrected. The thief turned around as Gyldan looked up. Standing behind the spiky haired thief was a young man wearing green robes. He had long brown hair that he kept in a top knot and he had brown eyes that had a serious look to them which matched those of the robber. In one quick motion, the green robed man struck the thiefs right arm just above the wrist with a powerful chopping motion. The spiky haired man cried out in pain as his knife dropped to the ground. Almost unconsciously, he took a step back, accessing his opponent. The green robed man reached inside of his robes and pulled forth an ornately decorated rod which was about thirty centimetres long. A stream of powerful energy shot up from one end of the rod, forming an energy blade which glowed electric blue. Seeing the glowing powersword, the thief turned and fled, not wanting to battle such a well armed and probably highly skilled foe. As soon as the thief was gone, the man in the green robes pressed a small button on his rod and the energy blade disappeared with a swooshing sound. Are you alright, maam? he asked. Quite fine, thank you. Gyldan replied. I am Veldrich, of the Fridu. he introduced himself. My name is Gyldan. she smiled, shacking his hand. Are there often thieves lurking in these beautiful gardens? Veldrich asked.

He is the first I have ever encountered. she admitted. Then I was fortunate to be passing through. the Fridu noted. Yes, you were. Gyldan replied. Tell me, what is a Fridu doing here in Burhdontun? I am on a diplomatic mission. the brown haired man explained. Diplomatic? she asked in a confused tone. Does it have to do with Duke Kelda? It might. Veldrich admitted. He looked around. I must be going now, but you are certain you are alright. Yes, thank you again. she smiled. He turned and began to walk away. Veldrich! she called after him. The Fridu turned around. Why dont you come by my house tonight. Ill cook you dinner as a thank you for saving me from that thief. He smiled warmly. I would like that very much, Gyldan. he replied. She reached into her picnic basket and pulled out a napkin. She had a pen in her pocket and she wrote down her home address for him. Ill see you around dinner time then. Certainly. the Fridu smiled, taking the napkin and looking at it. He folded it and then placed it inside one of the many pockets in his green robes. Veldrich then turned and walked away. He did come to dinner that night and she and the Fridu had become quite close. That was, until he and his mentor, Demefre, went up to Burh Kelda to confront Duke Keldatun and were both captured. Gyldan could only imagine the torture the two Fridu suffered. Yet Veldrich was able to escape and confront the Duke, eventually slaying him. Demefre, though, had been corrupted by the Dukes telepath and Veldrich was forced to flee the planet. Not long after, Imperial Argentroopers arrived and placed the entire planet under martial law until and Imperial Governor was named to rule the Dukedom. The whole planet and all the star systems which the Duke had ruled had been under this direct Imperial rule ever since. Now Gyldan stood on the small knoll near the waterfall where it had all began ten years before. It seemed to have changed very little in that time. Some of the trees were perhaps bigger, but she still heard the water tumbling over the stones just as it had on the day she met Veldrich. In her mind, she saw him standing there, watching her. He had a look of fear on his face and there was much uncertainty etched deeply into his brown eyes. She had the sudden realization that he needed her help - whatever help she could give. Gyldan suddenly knew exactly what she needed to do.

Colonel Wiellaburna was the overall commander of Mildthryth IIIs Argentrooper Legions. He had first been stationed on the planet three years ago and took his job of maintaining the planets security very seriously. Like all the other Argentroopers, he had the chiselled look of a soldier, with a squarish head and blue eyes. His brown hair was cropped short and he had a firm jaw. Wiellaburna, however did not wear the silver exo-skeletal armour of the Argentrooper Corps. In stead, he wore the smart looking formal uniform of the Imperial Armed forces. Black pants and black leather boots with a black coat decorated with his rank insignia and unit designation. He sat behind an oak desk in his office in Burhdontons Argentrooper barracks busily reviewing reports on an holographic screen. There was a polite knock on the door and he indicated that the interlocutor should enter. He looked up from his holo-screen to see his secretary, a civilian woman named Ertha Addaneye, walking into his office. A Fridu named Veldrich to see you, Colonel. she informed him. Veldrich. Wiellaburna replied in surprise. Let him in at once, Ertha. Yes, Colonel. the secretary nodded. She then turned and motioned to someone standing just outside the door. A moment later, Veldrich stepped into the office and the secretary departed, closing the door behind her. I was aware that you were planet side, Veldrich. the Argentrooper stated. Though, I must confess I am surprised to see you in my office. Captain Kort told me that you and your Century were investigating in and around Burhdonton and that they would require little to no support from the local Legions. I assume there must be something I can help you with. I hope so, Colonel. the Fridu replied. What do you know about a local man named Acleah Niewheall? Wiellaburna thought for a moment and then turned to his computer keyboard. He began typing and soon new reports appeared on the holo-screen in front of him. Civilian records show that he is a local, born and raised in Burhdontun. the Colonel read. He owns a holovid store in the city and studied for a while at Burhdontun University. I have his home address and other contact information. No police records? Veldrich asked.

Nothing local, or in any Imperial database. Ill need his home address, then. I can upload it to your comm. Wiellaburna suggested. Excellent, Colonel. Veldrich replied, retrieving his comm from his robes and handing it to the Argentrooper. Wiellaburna held the comm inside the holographic image on the display in front of him. He held it there until a small green light flashed on the comm and then he withdrew it from inside the holographic image. The Colonel then handed it back to Veldrich who looked at the information which was now stored on the device. Thank you for your help, Colonel. If there is anything else I can do for you while you are here, just let me know. Wiellaburna told the Fridu. Of course. Veldrich smiled, turning to leave. He stepped out of the Colonels office and into the small room beyond. To his absolute amazement, Gyldan was sitting quietly in one of the chairs near Erthas desk, as if she had been waiting for him. For her part, the Colonels Secretary was busy typing on her computer and appeared to not be paying any attention to the golden haired woman sitting nearby. What are you doing here? he demanded of Gyldan. You need my help, Veldrich. she replied in her usual no-nonsense tone. The Fridu looked deeply into the green eyes of the golden haired woman. He saw determination and love in those eyes and he knew there was little he could say to change her mind. Are you certain you want to get involved? he asked. There are dangerous things happening and I cannot guarantee your safety. Gyldan looked at him, contemplating his words and her response for a moment. I lost you once, Veldrich. she explained. I dont want that to happen again. And I know you need my help. You dont know this city like I do and that can be a weakness that might get you killed. Alright, Gyldan. the Fridu agreed. But wait here a moment. Veldrich turned and knocked on the Colonels office door. After hearing the Argentroopers prompt, the Fridu walked back through the door. Did you forget something, Veldrich? Wiellaburna asked, surprised to see the Fridu again. Can I ask one favour of you, Colonel? Veldrich enquired. Certainly.

I am going to need a blast pistol and two power cartridges from your weapons stores. The Argentrooper looked at the Fridu with an expression of confusion. Everyone in the Empire knew that the Fridu never used guns of any sort as they relied solely on their powerswords for defence. May I ask why you would need a blast pistol, General? Wiellaburna asked formally. It is not for me. Veldrich explained. It is to protect someone who will be helping out my investigation. This is highly irregular, you know that. the Colonel pointed out. I assume this individual is a civilian. She is. Veldrich admitted. The Colonels left eye brow rose slightly. Very well, Veldrich. he complied. However, if something goes wrong, I want you to tell any inquiry that you ordered me to furnish you with the weapon. Would you like me to? the Fridu smiled. That will not be necessary. Wiellaburna replied. However if anyone asks, that is what I will tell them. Alright. Veldrich agreed. Thank you, Wiellaburna. Be careful, Veldrich. the Colonel warned. I have a feeling you are involving yourself in dangerous plots. I will be. the Fridu replied and then turned and left the office, closing the door behind him. Gyldan was still waiting for him in the waiting room. Follow me. he instructed and led her out of the waiting room and down a long hallway toward the back of the barracks building. They reached a door with a sign saying Authorised Personnel Only painted on it and Veldrich simply stepped inside. The room was the small arms storage for the Argentrooper base and Veldrich quickly located a blast pistol, two power cartridges and a holster. He clipped one power cartridge into the bottom of the pistols grip and then put the other in one of the pouches on the holster belt. He then checked the safety switch on the pistol and then put it into the holster. Veldrich turned and handed the belt to Gyldan. Here, put this on. What? she asked in a confused tone. You want to help me, then you need to be able to protect yourself. Gyldan looked at the belt and the pistol sitting in the holster. She knew how to use the

weapon, however she had never carried one before. Are you sure? she asked in a timid voice. I told you Gyldan, Veldrich explained, If you are going to help me, I can not guarantee your safety. So it is up to you to be able to protect yourself. I am simply giving you the means. Alright. she nodded, taking the belt and putting it on. The pistol felt funny hanging off her left thigh, but she imagined she would eventually get used to having it there. Besides, Veldrich was right: she needed to be able to protect herself. What he was involved in was dangerous and he might not always be there to keep her safe. What now? she asked as they walked to the main door of the barracks. Now we look deeper into the words of a virtuous liar. Veldrich replied.