Chapter Three

Country of Georgia

Cort is quiet on the board as Prez gives us the final update. Zeke and Mucimi are in a stealth about five minutes ahead of us on the way to the prison we’re breaking into. Prez Knight finishes with us being Badass and everyone cheers. We had a meet, then everything changed so it was wasted time. I like the plan we have now better and it was a lot quicker.

When I stand with the others, Prez stops me. “Citiali, you spoke with Aiyana and Justice last night. Do what you can to shield the civilians knowing she’s covering you and Zeke from the reservation.”

I throw him chin. “I will, Prez. Zeke and Justice are keeping me open for questions and Aiyana explained the energy to shield more. I’ll let it pass through me like we practiced last night.”

He nods. “Call to me if you need me. I don’t have new ability answers but I can cover you with energy.” His words hit me right in the chest. Not only acceptance, but the trust and concern for me personally have me throwing chin so I’m not talking around the lump in my throat. He throws it back with a quick blast of energy that I feel as if he’s right here with us.

Freedom pulls me to the door by the sleeve of my coat. “You got Alder and MB. The other team has me. The other chopper has their own freaky taking the non-freaky.” She blows out a breath before putting her helmet on. “They kill me with the feels but it’s not in a bad way.”

I smile dropping my helmet on before I bend. “It felt good. LP, MB, you need the helmet and air on. We’re dropping fast from high. I don’t move slow.”

“Same to VP Mase, Nash?” Alder asks.

“I never ran Ops with them. I pick a location and appear. We’re shielded so shots won’t hit us but physical touch is different. I don’t have answers or time to ask. Be ready for anything. I work as if I don’t have a shield.”

“I stay alert same to you.” He climbs on my back as he says it. The little Brother is smart.

MB holds my arm. “Forearm okay?”

“Yeah, don’t let go.”

Teller gives the one-minute marker for our team and Justice opens the door. “Zeke and Mucimi are in, if they have IT issues, Mucimi will come get you, Alder. I don’t see it but I don’t see everything. Stick close to Citiali and MB if you’re not needed. You’re a go, Citiali.”

I hear his ‘ Ancestor Blessings ,’ as I tell MB and Alder to close their eyes.

Me: I move us to the door marked on our plan. “Open. LP, stay on me readied until we see our path. The shop looked huge.”

LP: “Factory. I laser readied.”

Me: I look to the side, MB has his MP out. “Touch is how I can move you fast, if I say touch, hold my arm or coat or something.”

MB: “Roger.”

Teller: “I’m picking up chatter. Mucimi, stop the warning. Justice, this is you, Brother.”

Mucimi: “Done. No internet, or electric to more than overhead lights.”

Justice: “Good job. We need you on FBI for the paper then transport for us. On my one, Citiali. Three-two-one.” He makes me smile saying it as one word.

Me: I throw heat, then hit the glass with my hand and watch the glass spider. A push has it falling so I can reach in and open it. “No one is close in front of us.” Turning, I see Teller, Brothers in navy gear and dogs. I don’t ask who’s flying the chopper. “Glad you made it. We’re in,” I say right after Justice. No one answers, just the way I like it.

MB: “Protect, yellow. Harky is control, find me when you’re done.”

Me: One of the bigger dog’s barks softly once reminding me of the Presidents that you don’t fuck with. “Zeus, do that in blue.” The other impressive dog does the same thing then he’s gone with four dogs and four Brothers following him around the next right turn. Prometheus and his crew of dogs and Brothers stay with us on the main aisle until his turn comes up. “Touch.” MB holds my sleeve. I push to the red section. These are CIA workers with Badass and Indians mixed up in their shit. The first gunshot has me slowing. “Open. Readied.”

LP: “Bend, VP Citiali.”

Me: I bend but Alder is already sliding down my back. He still has his gun in hand making me feel better about this. Justice said he’s a top Protector and I helped with a trafficking Op in Texas hearing about the Little President’s ninja training but seeing that gun has me relieved. “You’re shielded even away from me. Make every shot count, Brothers.” They both throw chin. Opening this door is a matter of turning the handle. While lights are on, its backup and doesn’t include the keycard access Mucimi and Zeke disabled. ‘Entering red.’ I throw to Prez. He doesn’t comment. First look shows guards pointing guns our way. I roll black through moving forward.

MB: “I’m the first block.”

Me: I nod and keep moving. Mase shows beside me with fire on his arms. “Glad you made it.”

Mase: “I’m transport and on LP so we’re not here longer than an hour. Mucimi will bounce between us and Justice. Go, Brother. The doors we need were unlocked before they cut the power.” He follows Alder to the aisle on the left. This is set up like half a pie cut into three pieces.

Me: I keep going straight, opening doors as I walk. While Indian languages are my specialty, I do own Babbel and speak Russian. “Come, line up.”The inmates don’t look well and move slowly but they move. I make the end of this side and open less doors going back up toward the intersecting corridors. Standing in the center, I speak to all the people in the three lines while Mase and Alder are still working down theirs. It’s the reason Alder had that corridor.

Me: “My name is Citiali Nanyehi. I’m part of Badass here to rescue you. The CIA asked for our help but we’ll be landing in Badass secured areas. You will be safe and free to move throughout Badass Security Council areas. If you choose to go back to the CIA, we will transport you to them. Badass members can stay or be transported with us.”

Woman: “NO!” I see a man openly crying behind her.

Me. I nod sending a blast of calm out. “This is your choice. We have a plane that will transport you outside of Georgia to wash, change and eat. From there we’ll fly back to the US where we can keep you safe and free. Someone will explain all Badass options open to you.” I don’t know if they want that or need it but say it.

Older man: “We have no papers.”

MB: “We’ll get you papers.” I’m surprised he speaks Russian without the French accent.

Zeke: ‘Citiali! Help the shield!’

Me: I push energy feeling my back in movement. “Done.” The people in front of me skitter back to the walls, bumping into anyone behind them. A couple fall over. “Stop!” The Russian word causes a freeze. “I’m Indian with ability or gifts as they’re called. Relax. Mase! We need to get them out.”

Mase: He runs from the back causing more people to shy away. This isn’t working very well. His arms are on fire. “I can take maybe ten.”

Me: I shake my head. “MB, get them on the looped rope. I’ll take them and be right back.”

Mucimi: “I got it. You need to hold the shield. Zeke is healing.”

Me: These people are weirded right the hell out but we don’t have time. “Mucimi is Mohegan and gifted. He’ll get you to the plane.” I push energy to him and more than three quarters of the people are gone. “Fuck me.”

Mase: He laughs. “I can take these. Alder needs help. Take a loop on the rope, I’m not Mucimi.” He tells the inmates.

Me: I’m shocked when the people left against the wall stumble to the rope. “I’ll push. Go.” I send energy and he’s gone.

Prez: “Jesus, Mucimi is back with Justice. Get the rest of them, Brother. I see why you’re there.”

Me: I’m glad he does but don’t ask him to explain it to me. I can ask later. Now, I find MB and Alder with two men and a woman on the floor of a cell. “I can help heal.”

LP: “Thanks you help to me. Medical supply to plane. Dehydrate to all, these starve, beat.” I move my hand in a circle and sit pushing energy to the three. I’m not a healer like Zeke and the other Princes but I can help.

Aiyana: “I am with you. Send energy. I will direct it.”

Me: I throw energy and feel when she moves on to the next person.

MB: “Citiali, some backup for the freaky, Brother.” His mind shows fire. Shit.

Me: “Warrior Princess.”

Aiyana: “Go, shield.”

Me: I push as I’m standing and move to the hall. Mase is flinging fire balls at what looks like Russian soldiers but we’re in Georgia. A few inmates are on the floor plastered against the wall with their heads covered. I roll black through the soldiers and watch the last three fall. “Put the fires out, Brother. We need these transported. I’m needed with Justice and Zeke.” There’s something odd about the man, no woman that’s watching us from the wall. I push it away and bend for Alder who followed me.

LP: “Boss Mucimi take two. I go to plane on freaky ride.”

Me: “Yeah. Mase, take the last and LP once the fire is out. MB, touch.” He does and I move. “Fuck. Open.” The half pie hallways are full of injured. “Zeke, Justice, I’m sending energy.” I feel them but check the building then feel a split and push energy out. I hope it’s working on the building and the people they’re helping.

Harley: “Freedom had to help with the dogs. Russian security something showed up.”

Me: “Thanks. I can’t look for them with the energy I’m sending out to the building and healers.” She gives me a weird look. “Get them on a looped rope for Mucimi and Mase.”

Teller: “I got it, Harley. Solitary is done. I’m quicker moving than healing and need to get the people ready for the plane.”

Me: I shake my head when the people and Teller are just gone. I didn’t know he could do that.

Harley: “Princes always had more than us but they’re freaky strong now.” She’d be amazed at the Virginia Brothers.

Justice: “Teller, I need your German or Russian or something.”

Me: “He’s transporting. I’m on my way.” I move to his side quickly. An older woman is glaring at him with a baby in her arms. What the hell is a baby doing here? She steps back when she notices me.

Older woman: a bunch of shit comes out but I snag on one word. “ Asgina …”, the accent is off but I understand one of my favorite words.

Me: My hand goes up. “Never. More angel than devil. Cherokee.” I say in Cherokee as I move my hair and turn my head.

Old woman: She starts to fall and I put a hand out, stopping that. I have no idea what she’s saying but get the word safe.

Me: “You’re safe now. We’ll get you to safe and free.” I watch her head bob up and down with her tears and wonder if I should take the baby before she crushes it into her.

Justice: He smiles. “I got her, she’s happy and blessed. I don’t know all the words but got that.” His hand calms the woman.

Me: “I think it’s a mashup of Russian and Cherokee, maybe the blue clan. She’s going home.” He gives me a look and I figure I’m done here. I find Harley and MB shooting at whoever the hell the soldier guys are like they’re picking off ducks at a county fair game. There aren’t many and they seem to take turns cuffing the wigglers as the soldiers fall. Nothing is hitting them so it’s good.

MB: “These were badly beaten. Harley said Zeke’s hall is all that’s left.”

Mucimi: “I got them. Two left and the woman he’s healing. The baby is a guard’s. The mother died. The woman wants the baby.”

Me: I have no idea what to say to that so I throw him chin.

MB: “They tortured them. I thought they went through the whole justice system and it’s better now? There were UN sanctions a while back.”

Me: “For most it’s better now. These are Russian Security sent to keep them. This isn’t Georgian officials running it anymore, I guess. Political prisoner means they’d probably be held for a trade.”

MB: “Not CIA. They’re not worth much if no one knows they’re here. No name, no proof of US citizenship.”

Mase: “We have it.” The Brother has my head whipping his way. “FBI just gave the paperwork and passports to Justice.”

MB: “For all of them?” We knew FBI was here but I haven’t seen them or the Virginia Protectors that are covering them.

Mase: “Sixty-three. Four are from here but were seeking asylum from the UK. They were trying to help the CIA head or something. They’re the Badass that drew Prez in. The CIA Head wasn’t leaving here. He’s in rough shape.” He says it like it just is, not a big deal.

Me: I push energy out hoping I never find any of this normal. Prometheus runs in with his bloody dogs and Enforcers behind him. None of this is normal. I push more energy out feeling my back in motion again.

Harley: “Tell me you just painted yourself.”

I close my eyes. I’m not normal anymore either.

Prez: “Mucimi is taking Zeke and the man to the plane so Alder can help. Aiyana is needed. How are you holding up, Citiali?”

Me: I’m happily surprised by the question. “With less healing going out, I’m doing okay. The building has dark in it but it’s not close and lightening little by little.”

Prez: “FBI is clearing it. They’re not as fast as your team, but they’re getting it done. If you feel yourself draining, let me know. I can help with energy from the reservation.” He doesn’t sound worried and I don’t feel it from him.

Me: “I will, Prez, but Harley asked about the paint so the ancestors are with us…” a soldier close with dark intent has me focused on the intersection of the corridor. He’s not there but fires something that shouldn’t be in a building, making Harley and MB duck as the wall in front of and to the side of us explodes like we’re in a sci-fi movie. I don’t see the soldier through the fiery hole he made, but throw energy hard enough to stop him. White light flashes from my outstretched hand surprising me, because that’s never happened before. MB and Harley run so I follow suspending while remembering my interrupted conversation. “I'm good, Prez.”

Harley: “You are, Brother. What kind of gun is that?”

MB: “Looks homemade. Is everyone out?” He wants out of this hellhole too.

Prez: “FBI and Virginia are still clearing. We need you with Citiali to keep the building shielded so FBI gets out without starting a war.”

Me: I roll my eyes. “Roger, Prez. Let’s clear this.” Home sounds good right now.

MB: He smiles. “Prometheus, Protect, clear the building, Go.” The dog crew runs with Brothers following. “Hunting is better than standing here waiting. You in, Harley?”

Harley: “Fuckin’ A.”

Me: “Prez, let FBI know we’re clearing from this side.” I move, throwing back, “You’re shielded. Let’s finish this.”

Prez: He’s laughing in our pieces but doesn’t say anything.

***

BSC East Plane

Mag is flying so I’m not surprised when Justice sits beside me. The energy that surrounds him helps the tired I’m feeling. “Thanks.”

He smiles. “I’m not sending anything yet.”

“You don’t need to. I feel it with you so close. Ancestors work through Brothers who are open to them, you’re one of them.”

“Your markings make you another.”

I nod. “There’s one on the other plane that’s marked. She’s dressed as a man but I got called away. She went with the last from that side.”

“There are more than a dozen Indians, how do you know she’s marked?”

I notice everyone paying attention to us. “I felt it but she isn’t surprised by gifts and wasn’t intimidated by Badass. She was relieved.”

“She took men’s clothes. I know who you mean. Her hair is cut short.” Mucimi surprises Justice.

“She’s marked?”

Mucimi shrugs. “That or she’s got ability. She’s got a light like us. Citiali said she’s marked, he’d know better than me. I was going to find her when we stop. Teller has her going to West BSC. She didn’t ask for South or East.”

Bastille leans forward. “The UK inmates?”

“East BSC. Forty-one are West the others spread out between East and South. Not many have connections to the others in the jail.” This bothers Mucimi. I figure he sees more than he’s saying.

MB nods. “CIA kept Maiyun's group separated, I bet these were too. How’d they get so many? Their language is a mix that had to take years to form.” He’s a smart Brother.

“The Cherokee had Blue Clan words or shortcuts, the Russian could be area dialect. A few were Cree and Navajo mixed with what sounded like French but I didn’t get to French yet.”

Justice laughs. “You got the Babbel?”

“Yeah, I didn’t have much to do when Putam left. IT work stopped when Hemy closed the reservation.”

His hand takes my forearm. “That is changing, Liberty will get the same as everyone else does. Training ability without the ability Brothers from Liberty stopped them from seeing the gifts you all have. Aaron already fixed that. I’ll get Enoli on the IT.”

“Atohi told me about the training and he asked Aaron about IT. A tech from Princes is going to send work.” I don’t know Josiah but Atohi was excited about aerial work because of the force-fields.

He smiles. “Atohi is comfortable in his place beside Andrew.”

I smile right back. “He is. Christian brought Andrew the ability chart and showed him Liberty Brothers. The reservation closed and we all got more but Andrew didn't work with us so he never saw it. Atohi said he ran FBI for a while until they had new Controls. His mind was set by the time he got back to running ability Protectors.” I give him so he calms.

“He’s right but Andrew should have asked. He needs an ability Brother beside him that can tell him to slow down. With Liberty working, they won’t be losing the Brothers we saw. They’re back to a clear path.” Mucimi has all eyes on him.

“Hemy isn’t losing his trainers, is he?” I ask while he’s giving what he sees.

“No. Aaron has maintenance training with Hemy now. They’re working together again.”

Atohi didn’t tell me that. I throw him chin.

“So, the paint shows when ancestors are close and your eyes show when you’re pissed?” Mase has me shaking my head.

“I’m not sure about the paint, it’s new for me, but when I push the ancestors’ energy it shows. My back felt like it was in perpetual motion the whole time but when I push, it feels like more, or faster. It’s always been for my eyes to show anger.”

“Are you drained?” Harley asks.

“He’s tired but not drained. It was more energy than White Wave pushed and he was working while doing it. I’d ask Zeke but he’s working at the reservation with Aiyana to heal. She said they have them all together so she doesn’t have to travel around the country.”

We all smile or laugh at that. Aiyana is smart and everyone thinks she’s a handful but I haven’t seen that. For Brothers, if we decide what we want and do it, we’re seen as determined and focused. Women get eye rolls and seen as stubborn or a handful. Ginny was a good teacher for us at Liberty. We all saw her focus and determination get her the position she wanted.

‘It will be said and written that you, Citiali, are now among one of my favorites.’ I laugh with Justice and Mucimi. Mase shakes his head. I shrug.

“I am honored to hold that position and will work to keep it, our Warrior Princess.”

Mase tells everyone what she said, getting a laugh.

I don’t ask why the other readers didn’t hear it.

The boards light up with Prez, Cort and Hemy on one and the other plane’s Ops room on the second. We all throw chin.

Prez smiles with a shake of his head. “Brothers, you’ll be stopping in Virginia to separate and board planes for home. The rescued that opted for your areas will be on that flight. Choppers are arranged for your Clubs when you set down so you’re not delayed. This Op ran faster and smoother than I expected. You were right, Justice, the collective power didn’t need the teams both Cort and I suggested. Less dogs, when it was Zeus and Prometheus, ran as if they were double the number. All in all, Great fuckin’ job, Brothers.”

MB makes me smile with his ‘hooyah’ amidst the Indian war cry and barks from the other plane.

Cort shakes his head. “I don’t know how you did it, but I’m proud you did, Brothers. What you can do, how you know just when to use your abilities, is impressive to watch. We don’t say much because we’re always amazed. I’m honored and proud, Brothers.” His eyes shift to the side then come right back to us. “Mase, you won the bet. Because it was all Clubs, it’s close to a hundred grand. The Brothers betting didn’t even know what the Op was but put money into the pool.”

Mase laughs. “Give it to the people we just rescued. Pocket money will help get them started.”

Hemy shakes his head. “I got clothes, LB has cars and Cort took IT to help them find family, papers or whatever they need. Citiali, the Liberty Brothers watched the Op, they’re proud the ancestors showed on you. We knew it for years but showing it had them all feeling good about the new training with the maintenance classes. You all did good but they felt that one, Brothers. Proud you’re ours.”

Justice pats my arm. “We all are, Hemy. We’re honored to be appreciated and recognized but it was one of the easier Ops. We needed every Brother we had and used our abilities seamlessly from the pilots to the Enforcers. Mucimi and Zeke with the IT had me worried but they did it without being seen…”

Prez cuts in. “Zeke suspended time with Mucimi on this Op. Dakota says there are no stories about any abilities he saw today.”

Justice makes us all smile. “We’re fuckin’ Badass, Prez. We learned it from you and started writing our own stories.”

Prez, Cort and Hemy laugh, then the board goes black. The other board is still up.

“Good job, Brothers. Are there any questions?” Justice is a good President.

“Nope, it was easy and quick. Did you have questions?” Blake asks. I didn’t see him but once in the prison.

“No, Brother. I’m honored you’re all mine and fuckin’ Badass is all that’s left.”

Blake salutes him and closes the board to cheers that get cut off.

I breathe deep. The Liberty Brothers are proud. I smile. My little brother will be chomping at the bit tonight.

***

Reservation

I sit on the rock just taking in the colors playing over the water.

“Citiali!”

I’m smiling before I turn toward Atohi’s voice and footsteps. It looks like the whole Liberty tribe is here. Standing, I catch the nut before he jumps on me. Pulling him into a hug, I squeeze him back before setting him down. “You brought friends, Atohi. Your Protectors will be home soon.” I swing my hair back out of my face.

He looks so young without worry in his normally haunted eyes. “Andrew is here with us. They’re jumping with us now. You’re early.”

With an arm over his shoulder, I walk toward my tribe, my friends. “I’m on the plane, I don’t have much time.”

“You’re not tired.”

“No, Brother. I’m fine and was during the Op.”

“You all moved so fast, we had four screens running, those dogs are crazy.”

Yona steps forward as soon as we’re off the rock. “I’m so proud of you, Citiali. The Little Brothers are all excited to show their abilities now.” He hugs me quick.

I nod, stepping back and look over the Brothers assembled. “Prez Knight says we show when we need to. It was needed so I did. You do the same, Brothers. Abilities keep us safe to do the job. Use them like the tools they are and you’re all good. When it becomes a game, you’re misusing them. Talk to your Protector Brothers when you’re not sure.”

Yona laughs at the ‘yes, sir’ and ‘roger’ I get back from the whole group. “We didn’t expect you.” My uncle hugs me hard. “You’re showing them their worth to the tribe and Badass from across the world, Citiali. You are a true warrior messenger and the ancestors just amplified your purpose. It took them long enough. The older are honored to be on the Op but wished they were with you. They said FBI are boring.”

I laugh with Atohi, Enoli and the Little Brothers that are close. “I came to show appreciation for the help and strength today. I need to get back.” I touch heads and shoulders as the Little Brothers walk by touching me.

“Can I have a minute?”Andrew steps around Yona.

I give Atohi’s shoulder a squeeze throwing chin to Andrew. “I’ll see you later, Atohi, I should be home by then.”

“I’ll find you.” He walks with Yona up the rock.

“Brother, you were fuckin’ Badass today. Hemy said the Liberty Brothers hold back their ability but are proud.”

I nod. “We were taught to show when they’re needed. We do but some are nervous they’ll be thrown on Ops. For some of us, our paths are written and clear to us, others are still looking. The Op today ran well with Virginia covering FBI.”

His serious look holds no anger. “It did, I’m learning. Atohi and Enoli are good teachers. How do I help?”

I smile. “Ask Atohi. He knows the Brothers as well as I do and now knows you and your intentions. He sees more than me too.”

“I will. Thanks for today, Brother. I won’t hold you up. I have questions for Atohi, the fuckin’ kid likes me asking everything here.”

I laugh and jump.

***

ABSZ

Landing, I tell of my appreciation for being brought onto the Op and got laughed at. Not understanding why they are laughing at me, Justice hugs me with a thanks and calming energy. I get hugged and ‘good jobbed’ from every Protector, Cort, Ranger and Luke Rayne. I feel the honor in that and know I am seen, heard and appreciated here for who I am. Letting the last shreds of doubt go is freeing in a way I have never felt. I think it’s because my family banished me and my brother as babies from our home and people. Here, I am free and equal just as Cort told me at our first meeting.

The Alpha-Bits show, surprising me with their number. There has to be thirty waiting. Knowing how many more there are hits me hard, if you add the monastery kids, that number matches our tribe in Liberty. We have the chance to bring that number higher, whereas they face extinction. We also have Native Brothers and Cherokee all over the country, but the Alpha-Bit number will never grow. That hurts in a place deep in me. I need them to know and bend for hugs from them too. I give appreciation for all they do and Alder does his one nod before telling me they are honored. The tears in his ancient eyes tell me he feels it.

As I stand to get to my chopper, the rescued people are watching from the side. My eyes lock on the woman dressed as a man and I throw her chin. Not knowing what more to do or say, I walk to the chopper. The rescued are being separated to different Clubs so we have a wait. Mag Bailey has some questions so it isn’t a bad wait.

I stop and turn toward the door when I feel ability close. Three are walking our way. An older man who limps badly, a late teen boy and the woman who is marked, board the plane.

“Do you speak English?” Mag asks, walking to the door.

“Yes, all.” The older man says.

I stand seeing the old man is nervous. “Sit, relax, the Club is not far.”

His eyes light with a smile my way. “Citiali Cherokee.”

I smile. “Citiali Nanyehi of the Liberty Cherokee tribe in Virginia. I am considered a messenger for all.”

“One of the warrior brothers, the messenger and the teacher.” The woman says in perfect English with an accent I can’t place in the short sentence. She’s heard our stories so she was raised in a tribe that hadn’t turned away from the ancestors.

One nod is what I give. “You’re marked and have ability.” My words have her on guard immediately, so I show her my mark. “I feel it but did not read you. I read only what’s open to me as a precedent, everyone has a right to freedom.”

Her brows go from suspicious to surprised. “I am a seer.” She’s not giving much up with that.

Mag gets them settled while telling of his grandmother the seer. I almost laugh at the simplistic label but leave it alone. The woman watches me but I keep my eyes on the older man. “I can heal so you’re comfortable.”

With his nod, I sit in front of him with my knee touching his leg and throw healing energy. Mag gets bored and tells us I can heal while he flies.

At Guardian, Mikey, Parker and Axe are waiting with a woman I don’t know. I introduce everyone getting a smile for having their names right. I was struck when I saw it on the list the Flight Crew gave Mag. Dyani is a Cherokee name meaning deer. It’s not like I’d forget that one. Smith isn’t her last name, Jones and Brown aren’t the men’s last names either.

Mikey points. “This is Mary, she’s a PA and helps with integrating women back into society. PA is a doctor so she can help with the brace Alder said you need Miguel and the questions you’ll have Dyani. Andrey, Axe works with the kids and can help with your questions and introduce you around. I’m Mikey, this is Parker, our President is Nova, Parker’s twin but older by a couple of years. He’s on Ops tonight but he’ll have breakfast with you in the morning.”

I nod, ready to be home. “I’ll let you settle them in. Thanks, Brothers.”

Mikey stops smiling. “They’re going to your VIP. Ari has it supplied and said you have the two-bedroom open so Mary can stay with Dyani.” Ari purposely put in only one two-bedroom at VIP so the crazies wouldn’t park at our Club.

I should have looked. “Okay then. Do we have a ride?”

She points to the SUV pulling up to the portico. “They have clothes in the houses and the fridge is stocked. Maiyun will be here tomorrow.”

“I’ll get them settled and show them around. Thanks, Mikey. Is breakfast at the Protector Club or here?”

“Seven at yours and it’s Teach.”

Axe laughs knowing I don’t ever say the name. I wear it, that should be enough.

I roll my eyes and guide everyone to the SUV. “I call it Protectors but she’s a stickler for the names. We train Protectors for the families and Alpha-Bits. Our old Clubs called it high security. New takes some getting used to.”

“You are new here?” Andrey asks.

“I’m from Virginia and got here about two weeks ago. BSC Clubs are pretty much the same everywhere but the old names stuck with us in the south. We’re protectors and we train, same as here. My old Club was named for our President Hemy. The big Club was Virginia Badass. Here it’s Guardian and Teach.”

“There are many BSC. They showed a map so we can choose a new home but we are free to move to another Club. Miguel is Badass so he explained some.” Andrey is cute with his child-like excitement.

“You are. There are plenty of jobs to go around and Clubs that specialize in different areas. All Clubs offer training for jobs with our procedures, but there are service jobs that are available like Guardian has greenhouses and fields for farming. They train too but not specialized in High Security. We have highly focused trainees that will go to other Clubs. The other specialized Clubs are Law, Rescue, Satellite, Flight Guard, Aerial and advocacy. Veritable trains police and sheriff, Cooper is mainly military Badass. Rising Squared is dogs and Ops, they do a lot of FBI Ops. I need the list to give you all their training. Axe would know, he’s been here longer than I have.”

“I am computer analyst.” He’s already excited for work tomorrow.

“Every Club has computer but if you have a specialty, I think ABSZ is the hub for IT. The Alpha-Bits are all computer genius Brothers.”

“No specialty. I analyze incoming data. Cyber security was my department.”

I nod. “I’ll get with Axe about training for here. He does IT for Alder when he’s not working.”

“Thank you, thank you, VP Citiali.” He thinks he’ll be working right away. His worry is food and clothes.

“You don’t have to start tomorrow, Andrey. Your house has clothes and food. Mase won the bet on time for the Op and gave it to all who were rescued. It will get you incidentals we didn’t know you like. He said pocket money. Relax, get yourself settled, questions answered and checked by the doctor. The website has jobs when you’re ready to work and we always need help.”

“And for me?” Dyani asks sounding timid.

“Same thing. Everyone is equal here. You saw the Alpha-Bits, they were grown by the CIA. They’re equal to you and me. Old, young, men and women are just Brothers here. If you can do the job, it’s yours. I will be working with the Indians that were rescued here. Some don’t remember where they came from. Mary probably knows more about that than me so she can explain, but you’re welcome to the meeting I have set for tomorrow after dinner. It will be my first.”

“Why are you doing this?” She doesn’t believe.

Mary laughs. “It’s Badass, that’s what we do. Everyone helps and we take care of each other.”

“Like the clan?” Andrey asks. He’s Indian.

“Yes, we’re all family through Badass and our Native ancestry,” I tell him. “What tribe are you from?”

“Cree. I was taken young. I don’t know where my clan is but I know they’re Cree and another name.”

I nod for him. “We can explore that at the meeting. There are many tribes and many mixes. Do you know your given name?”

“Ahanu is all I remember. I say it every day so I don’t forget.”

I pull up to the VIP section hoping they really are stocked. “He laughs is a good name for you, Ahanu. That is definitely Cree. Come to the meeting tomorrow. We can ask around and add you to the list I saw, many don’t remember but we have connections to all tribes now and may find your family.” I get out of the truck and am surprised when I’m bear hugged by the boy.

His words come with tears. I feel his pain and hope but can’t step back. The boy was taken and sold years ago. I see the child he was. “My aunt is Cree and Navajo. I remember the desert; I want to go home.”

My arms go around him automatically. “I’ll look tonight with the ancestors, Anahu. If I can find her, I will.” I throw calm out and turn my head toward the little giggle.

“Your paint is showing and his heart is soaring, Citiali. You will find his aunt and I see Anahu working in office clothes like Mary.” Dyani is indeed a seer.

I nod and step back. “It will be, Anahu. Let’s get you inside and settled so I can get to the reservation and find your family.”

“Yes, yes. My aunt from the desert.” He looks up at the night-time sky. “My home.”

With a smile, I turn and start walking. “Okay. So, this is the VIP section. Here, you have to keep away from the Alpha-Bits until we get your blood tests back. Alder said he’d send everything in the morning. He would have already told them so they understand and won’t be offended. Ari is our President. I’m VP. Prospects are assigned to us and will deliver what you need with the app on the tablet or phone. Use the service while you get acclimated without worry. This one is one bedroom, so is the next. Mary, the bigger one is two doors down. Can you settle Dyani in?”

“I got her. The Prospect brought my bag over so we’re good. Breakfast at the dining room?”

“Yes. Seven,” I say opening the door to the first house. “Have a good night, ladies.” Stepping in, I’m glad Anahu and Miguel follow. “First the phone and tablet.” They’re looking around with relief and excitement flowing off them. “Anahu, come see. This one is Miguel’s house. His name is on the tablet.” They’re better than Virginia with the setup.

I go through the apps showing them the chat that has all rescued in a group, Prospects and the BSC website showing all the Clubs. I move to the fridge and walk through to the bedroom and bathroom. Miguel has clothes and everything he needs to have a good night. He looks beat and I feel his relief and some pain creeping in him.

“This is your home for however long you need it. Alder will send someone with the brace for you tomorrow. Breakfast will give us information about the day. Tonight, relax, shower, sleep or sit in your yard and appreciate the night. Do you have questions?”

“Medicine?”

I hold his arm and throw healing energy. “Anahu, open the mirror in the bathroom, a bottle is by the toothpaste, bring the bottle.” The boy runs as if it’s an emergency. He’s going to love the Alpha-Bits. They were held back from them at the ABSZ but they were all smiling at them. “The pills are basic pain relief. Call if you need me. Tonight should be easier now.” I let his arm go and take the bottle from Anahu. “Two pills every six or eight hours if you feel pain creeping up on you again. Call me if it’s intolerable. I can be here in seconds.”

His smile shows no pain. “I am tired, my friend, pain is gone. Thank you.”

I nod and hand him the bottle. “If you need it. They’re made by Native Remedies , Aiyana ships them everywhere. All natural and safe.”

He hugs me.

Anahu’s excitement overflows with his new house being the first real home he’s had since he was taken. This kid has lived through a hell I don’t want to see any more of. Thankfully, excitement only shows what his old rooms, cells and beds looked like. With another hug and promise to ask about his aunt, I’m ready for some reservation time.

***

Reservation

Lying flat out on my back I watch the sky and revel in my new acceptance. I smile and fix that, new complete acceptance. I need to work to show it’s deserved and appreciated.

Anahu deserves his family back. I filled out the form with his information and a short video of the desert I saw from him. His aunt is young in his memory and the name he called her isn’t Indian. Saki isn’t from these tribes and was said with vowels that don’t match Cree or Navajo dialect.

As soon as I feel him, I turn to my side.

“Sakari is in the Bravo tribe. She works at the breads store in Honor.” Mucimi is a wealth of knowledge.

“Thank you. I’ll take him over tomorrow after work.” I throw energy to him.

“You’re on them tomorrow. Get them settled. He doesn’t want to leave Dyani and Miguel yet. Miguel’s name is Nitis. He’s from Texas and was a US Marshal, then a bounty hunter when he joined Badass. He saw UK joining so he went there. In the UK Club, he heard of the CIA holding Indians and jumped in. No one has heard from him since. His paperwork in the UK expired.” US Marshal to bounty hunter is interesting because Hemy has a full Club of bounty hunters waiting to be picked up by the eastern Clubs.

I sit up fast. “CIA held him?” I see it and wave my hand. “What were they doing with them?” I’m not really sure I want to know.

“He’s smart, they tested him but I don’t know why. I sent it to Christian but he’s been busy. Nitis got beat at the prison. CIA didn’t hurt them but it was like another prison. Dyani…”

Teller shows with a hand over his mouth. “Chenoa will meet you tomorrow at the Bravo Club. She’s an elder of the tribe.” Both Teller and Mucimi are gone.

A deep breath has me blowing it out with a laugh. Dyani is mine. I knew but didn’t expect confirmation. I flop back and look at the sky. The ancestors are happy tonight too.