Chapter 30

In all my risings, never would I have dreamed father would allow these interlopers full access to our systems. Several times I have started to confront him about this, but he has thrown all rational thoughts away since his pet was taken. The very thought of sacrificing good warriors to go after her turns my stomach. Now when they still held Zllera, I could understand it, but now, no.

Lostin my own thoughts, something moving out of the corner of my eyes stops me in my tracks. Standing in front of the shuttle they invaded us in, is an Orc. When she turns my way, I gasp out in surprise.

Ibow down the moment I realize who it is. "Zura, forgive me priestess, I had no knowledge that you accompany the others."

"Oh, get up. I hate that boring crap. IfI had it my way, no one would ever lower themselves to another. Who might you be?"

"I am Raya, the oldest daughter of CommanderZoD."

"And a warrior, I see."

"Yes, priestess. I have gained my scars. IfI may ask, what are you doing here?"

"I arrived with CommanderDaR. I was catching a ride home when he received the comm from Jade. As you should know I do not follow the path of my mother and have spent several Orbital rotations on Darverius training and guarding precious Keida. But my sword is available to your people if need be."

"Zura, I would be honored to fight by your side. I have applied to compete in the next warrior trials your home world promotes, but I have not been accepted as of yet."

"When our business here is done and if you prove yourself worthy, I will speak to Mother and ask her to sponsor you."

"Do you not compete yourself, Zura?"

"No, it is forbidden, as others would say the gods favor me. I too have earned my scars the hard way, but many who hold on to the old ways would only see fault."

"You do me a great honor by even asking this of your holy mother."

"The trials push even the best to their limits, Raya. You may not be thanking me in the middle of them."

"I still appreciate your assistance with the matter even if I am not picked to participate. Do you have to remain here with their ship?"

"No, I stayed as a precaution."

"I am heading to the armory. Would you like to go with me? Apparently, they have found a way to neutralize the Waldrin and Tordan asks me to gather all the warriors in one place. Mosthave lost loved ones and spirits are low. It would do them good to see one such as you. Most would believe the Lord of Light sent you here as a beacon of hope."

"Too bad that's not the truth, but what they don't know won't hurt them, and one thing I have learned in battle is you need all the encouragement you can find. Or a big damn Orc to help out. Lucky for me I have both when needed. Lead the way, Raya, let's go get these warriors riled up."