18. Jade

18

JADE

I wake with a start, my entire face puffy and sore from crying. I'm disoriented, the unfamiliar surroundings of the weapons cave throwing me off. Then, as I remember why I'm here, a fresh wave of pain and despair washes over me.

The loss of Zeleck, the realization that I can never go back to Earth, the need to protect my friends and their babies from Earth Gov…these thoughts and more play on a continual loop in my mind.

How can I make sense of all this? I could talk things through with Jillian, but I don't want to worry her more than necessary. I suppose I could give Alana another chance, after I set her straight about respecting the Rakuis way of life.

I don't want to see anyone yet but can't stay in this cave forever. I need to pull up my big girl panties and get to work. After finding something to eat, I need to talk with the others about these latest Earth Gov revelations and come up with a plan to protect the coming babies.

My head pounds as I make my way out of the weapons cave. Stepping into the hallway, I nearly collide with Cyana, one of the Elders. She takes one look at me and her eyes fill with concern.

Without a word, she gathers me into her arms, holding me close as I begin to tremble. I can feel the warmth of her embrace and the gentle strength of her presence. I allow myself to be comforted, to feel the support of someone who cares, and start crying. Again.

Cyana leads me into the Elders' living quarters, her arm wrapped securely around my shoulders. I'm weeping openly now, the tears flowing freely as she guides me to a comfortable spot and sits beside me.

She takes my hands in hers. "Tell me, precious one, what troubles you?"

The words spill from my mouth like water from a burst dam.

I tell her about Zeleck, about our quest for Rakuium, about our night together during the storm. Well, the PG version anyway. I tell her about the Earth Gov communications and explain how Zeleck rejected me after thinking he was my second choice.

"Zeleck didn't even give me a chance to explain," I sob. "He just assumed I was settling for him because I couldn't go home, then told me we were done."

Cyana listens patiently, her hand rubbing gentle circles on my back. When I'm finished, her eyes search mine. "What are your true feelings about Zeleck?"

I take a shuddering breath. "I love him and want to be his mate. Not because I'm stuck here with no home to go back to. But because I want to be with him. Forevermore ."

Cyana nods, a smile playing at the corners of her mouth at my use of the Rakui term for mates staying together forever. "The problems between you and Zeleck appear to be from a simple miscommunication. These things happen, even between mates who have been together for lifetimes."

I shake my head. "No, it's the Rakuium's fault. It brought Zeleck and me together, only to tear us apart. It's evil, just like Earth Gov."

To my surprise, Cyana laughs, reaching out to wipe away my tears. "Rakuium is a benevolent energy source, Jay-duh. It does not choose good or evil. The one holding it does."

I look at her, confused. "But, how can that be? Rakuium destroyed your homeworld and now it's destroyed my relationship with Zeleck."

Cyana smiles sadly. "Our ancestors destroyed our homeworld due to hate and greed. Rakuium was just the tool they used to do it. You and Zeleck are pure of heart. If you both allow it, the Rakuium's influence on your bond will be pure as well."

She takes my hands in hers, her grip firm and reassuring. "You need to find Zeleck. Make him listen to you. Do not let a simple misunderstanding destroy the love you share."

I wrap my arms around Cyana, hugging her tightly. "Thank you," I whisper, my voice thick with emotion. "Now I know why you and Morkon are so revered by the tribe. Your wisdom is invaluable."

Cyana returns my embrace. "Now go. Make things right with your mate."

I pull back, wiping away the last of my tears. "Zeleck's not my mate yet. But he will be, if I can convince him to forgive me."

I make my way out of the Elders' living quarters and toward Zeleck's hut. "Zeleck, are you in there?" I keep my voice down so nobody else will hear.

Just when I think he's not inside, the flap of his hut opens. Zeleck stands there with a smile on his face.

"Jay-duh. I was just coming to find you."