The Beaded Tapestry

Simona thought back as she waited, how disturbingly close the Earth had come to destroying itself. The balance was still delicate even after the gigantic effort to save it, and life still teetered on the edge of a knife blade. Hope gave her courage as she anticipated this next stage of the plan. She sat in the ground car, impatiently awaiting her fellow traveler. Doctor Annalis was not actually late for their departure, but Simona was vehement and excited to get to the site. She checked the time on her wrist unit again, just as the professor rounded the corner of the Oxford administration building. She immediately spotted the vehicle waiting for her arrival and sped up her approach. “My apologies Professor Simona, I had no idea I was late.” Dr. Annalis said a bit out of breath. “No apology is necessary my dear doctor.” Simona said as she gestured for the woman to join her in the car. “You are right on time and if you are willing we can dispense with the formalities. Please address me as Simona.” The arriving woman signaled agreement. “That would be excellent. Please call me Annalis.” She responded as she took her place next to Simona in the back of the vehicle.

“The trip to the pocket zone near Loch Rannoch will take just under six hours.” Simona began. “I would like to give you some history on our facility as we travel and also give you an overview of what we are doing there.  This will help pass the time quite nicely.  Also we can discuss your role in our endeavor if you are agreeable.”  Annalis nodded enthusiastically, closing the door behind her and adjusting herself on the seat.  The driver stowed her small overnight case in the storage compartment on the side of the vehicle and climbed into the operator’s cabin in the front of the ground car.

Professor Simona explained the history and details of their destination as they made their way out of Oxford and headed north on the suspension motorway. The two thousand hectare facility was located between a small loch and a protected range of mountains 750 kilometers north of Oxford.  Only the sister site located in Australia was larger.  The loch location housed the last remaining colony of bees in the British Isles.  Between the two facilities they created a six thousand acre protected environment for the endangered species.  Both were the brain children of Dr. Frances Sten, a twenty-first century bioengineer from Sydney.  His incredible vision was put in place to curb the disastrous decline of the bee population across the globe.  If not for Dr. Sten’s diligence there would no longer exist the world as we know it now.  Simona thought back as she related the story. She hoped this planned stage of the project would deter the next imminent disaster.

As the vehicle neared the site, Simona could feel her excitement boiling over.  It had been months since she had been able to visit, trapped at Oxford with her scholastic duties and research administration for the melittological endeavors.  The jolt of the car as it left the main road pulled Simona out of her reverie.  To their left the shimmering wall of the research enclosure was just visible through the dust kicked up from the dirt road. The pocket environment was dwarfed by the mountains bordering the north side of the facility.  The re-moleculorized polymers that once polluted the Earth, supplied the building blocks for the huge structure.  It also contributed to the distinct rainbow hue reflected off the surface as the vehicle made its way along the outer border.  It gave the impression of viewing the mountains through a polarized lens.  The facility was immense despite its relation to the mountains; it took a half hour of traveling along the site’s perimeter before the main entrance came into view.  “The enclosure is arranged in a rectangle.” Simona explained to Annalis.  “The designers tried to utilize the maximum space with the given allocated land.  With the mountain range bordering on the north,  there was a limit on the size and shape.” She said pointing to the high reaches. “Also the proximity to the public transport way had to be taken into consideration. The southern edge of the facility had to be pushed back several kilometers away from the interference of the public access.  We cannot have the noise pollution, not to mention the particle pollution interfering with our charges.”

The car stopped just short of the entrance, and Simona and Annalis exited the vehicle.  The driver also got out and handed Annalis and Simona their cases before getting back into the car.  He pulled away, heading to a protected parking area away from the main structure. “There are entrance protocols as I explained, so I will step you through them. Please follow me.” Simona gestured toward the sealed entrance as she made her way over the threshold.

The door opened upon their approach and they proceeded through into a narrow corridor lined with small lockers.  “The facility has a triple entry system to protect the inner environment from microbes and similar invaders.” Simona explained as she removed her shoes and coat, placing them in one of the lockers. She indicated to Annalis to do the same, and then they proceeded through the next door. This area provided them with a white coverall marked with the logo of the facility.  She indicated to Annalis to use one of the benches to make it easier to don, and took her own seat across from her. A shelf running along the end of the area supplied the protected boots to complete their outfits.  They then continued on in full garb through the final barrier and into the main facility. 

Annalis arranged her coverall hood, not used to the cumbersome outfit and took a deep breath.  The air was sensual and a rush of anticipation greeted her as the pungent smell of fertile loam and sweet pollen filled her senses.  “The enclosure is very utilitarian.” Annalis stated as she took a first look at her surroundings.  Simona looked around at the neatly planted rows of fragrant vegetation and the crisp lines of barren ground bordering the walls of the facility. “Yes, I suppose it does give that impression.” She answered. “It creates an easier habitat to maintain. The barren border around the interior wall was a necessary inclusion in the design. As resourceful as humans are, bees are more resourceful and cunning.  When the ground cover was allowed to encroach on the walls of the enclosure the bees became escape artists.  Our researchers found that only if the bees were drawn to the barrier by attractive vegetation were they even aware they were held in captivity.  So the vegetation was cleared twenty centimeters from the barrier wall all around the facility. Now there is nothing to entice them close to the encircling barrier.  They seem to remain content now within their terrain. All ten of our pocket zones around the world use this method.  Unfortunately many of our populations were lost before this process was perfected, escaping into the outer world and bringing back the fatal bacterium that nearly wiped out their wild ancestors.” An expression of sadness passed across her face before Simona gestured for Annalis to move into the central path cutting through the vegetation. Simona did not like to recall that devastating phase of the project.  The memory still brought unwanted emotions to the surface, and now was not the time to lose the attention of her guest.

A young woman approached their position, also clad in the white coveralls. Her adornments also included a security hologram displaying her name as Samantha Barnes, chief bioengineer. “Well met Sam,” Simona said as she extended her hand to her colleague. “May I introduce our guest Dr. Annalis Morgan.” Annalis also extended her hand in greeting and Samantha gave it a friendly shake. “Dr. Morgan, such a pleasure to meet you.” The young woman said as she stepped back from the path to allow one of the workers to pass their position. The blue clad employee was pushing a wheelbarrow full of green cuttings followed closely by an interested group of bees. Simona saw Annalis raise her arm to wave away the oncoming denizens, before changing it into a gesture towards Samantha.  “Please call me Annalis.” The scientist stated as she stepped back for the passing worker, slightly embarrassed by her reaction to the habitat’s key occupants. The woman pushing the wheelbarrow gave her an unreadable look before continuing with her task. “It is very busy here; so much industrialization.” Annalis said to cover up her embarrassment. Simona nodded agreement and indicated that Annalis and Sam should follow her.  “Don’t worry Annalis.  Your response is a normal one. They will not take offense. Sam, I will be giving the good doctor a full tour today, but we would like to concentrate our final observations on the Moramet habitat. Can you indicate if any large scale activities are scheduled for today?  I would like to share the habitual activities of our residents without too much outside interference.” The bioengineer shook her head in an indication of the negative and the three women started their tour of the large facility.

The first part of the tour concentrated on the biological residents of the pocket environment.  Twenty-five different species of anthophila were spread over the two thousand acre structure. Each species had a designated territory, with hives doted throughout their favorite vegetation.  No physical barriers were in evidence between these areas, but Simona explained to the attentive Annalis that there was very little natural cross contamination between the species.  They mainly kept to their territories and the twenty-five species were chosen for their locations based on their natural lack of aggression and competitiveness toward each other.  They spent a pleasant afternoon viewing the different habitation before Simona led Annalis into a large block building dominating the southern end of the facility. “This building holds the saviors of the Earth’s food crops.” Simona explained as she sealed the double doors behind Annalis. “After the near extinction of our anthophila brethren, Dr. Frances Stern set his mind to the creation of an indestructible population to replace their fragile brothers.” Simona opened a third door and entered a large low ceilinged laboratory.  The outer walls were lined from floor to ceiling with a mixture of hexagonal and cylindrical cells.  Some of the cells were occupied by an ebony inhabitant, barely visible through the opaque walls. The air of the room was filled with flying objects, busy with various tasks. “Dr. Sten kept his creations as close to their biological counterparts as he could.  It makes the imprinting process more efficient and extremely successful.” Simona explained as she motioned Annalis closer to one of the covered walls.  Simona could now make out the distinctive markings of the flying inhabitants of the room.  They vaguely resembled the North American bumble bee, with their large striped body, covered in course hair, but these were completely black and no noise emanated from their flight. 

Simona indicated a pair of benches situated in the center of the structure.  She took a seat and Annalis sat down on her right. “This drone burrow contains over 50,000 individual at one time.” She began.  “These mass produced similes of the once prolific species of honey bees are almost indistinguishable from their biological counterparts.”  The professor motioned to the cubical around them and the swarming creature clouding the space.  “Created by using drone and nanotechnology along with the incorporation of DNA gene splicing breakthroughs from the twenty-second century, these cyber drones are the savior of the world as we know it. Once the mechs as we call them have been created,  they are integrated into the  colonies outside this building in the main area of the biosphere.  They assimilate the methods of pollination and survival from their natural family.  Once this learning has been embedded into their gel network, they are recalled from the biosphere and stored here for later transport.  Once released into the agricultural zones of Earth, they provide a sustainable alternative their endangered family.” Annalis gazed around in amazement at the community made up totally from mechanized creatures.  “An impressive display!” She said as she admired the industry around her. Simona nodded agreement as she pulled a few drink containers from her travel pack. “Let us have a short rest and refreshment while you take in the site, then I can show you what you came all this way to really see.”  She said with a tinge of excitement in her voice. Annalis took the offered beverage and sat sipping the chilled tea taking in the activity around her. 

Once they were refreshed and the drink containers stowed back in Simona’s pack,  the professor gestured toward the enclosures east exit, suggesting that they continue on.  Once outside the outer isolation door, Simona turned right and headed down a compact dirt path heading straight for the far wall of the enclosure directly opposite the main entrance to the facility.  After a few minutes walking they entered a forty acre plot of land that stood apart from the surrounding areas. The top layer of ground had been removed and replaced by a slightly darker soil.  Strange plants covered the area in a rich carpet of fanciful colors.  Annalis stared at the exotic foliage of dark magenta, true blue and dark azure trying to recognize any of the plants from her travels.  “I have never encountered any of these varieties before.”  She asked of Simona. “Where are they sourced from, some exotic hidden paradise?” A small laughed escaped her as she glanced toward the professor in anticipation.  Simona shook her head in a negative response and indicated for Annalis to follow her down a side row blanketed in azure blossoms.  The constant hum heard in the previous area of the habitat was now only slightly auditable as the two woman made their way down the new path.  Studying the azure flowers, Annalis discovered that each was adorned with a violet star in their center.  The plants stood waist high to Annalis and completely obscured the ground beneath them.  

Halfway down the row Simona squatted down and motioned for Annalis to join her.  Now at the same level as the blossoms, Annalis could see they were not alone.  “Here is the creature I have brought you to meet.” Simona said indicating a spindly form clinging to the stem of the plant just below the roof of dark blue flowers.  The creature was moss tinted with six delicate legs.  At the end of each leg a small bristle like appendage sprouted.  The fairly like creature was caressing the tops of the flowers with these small yellow brushes, collecting the violet substance and transferring it to a pouch at its belly.

“This is the aerial Moramet.” Simona began, pointing to the creature. “It was once a prolific resident of the planet Fleres.  One of our research teams encountered this species on an expedition to study the binary star system Ceres over 50 years ago. The environment of the planet had been decimated by solar activity from one of the twin stars and most life was near extension.  A small community of the Moramets was retrieved and they have thrived within our enclosures.” Annalis studied the creature as Simona told its history.  Once the Moramet completed its violet collection,  it unfolded delicate transparent wings from beneath a fold on its back and hoovered just beneath the cover of the blossoms to move on to the next stem.  “Amazing!” Annalis whispered as she sat down on the damp soil. The creature never ventured above the floral canape, remaining invisible to the observer above. 

“The exploration team also retrieved as many biological samples of flora as they could before completing their investigation. The Moramet has very specific tastes in plant species and they wanted to ensure the survival of the species once their planet became unable to support life.” Simona rose as she completed the history of the denizen, dusting off the knees of her coveralls as she straightened. 

These will be your companions on your upcoming voyage to New London.  Although it is a controversial decision, the foundation has decided to seed the A zone of Neo-Britannia with these resilient creatures. We have discovered that much native foliage on New London is compatible and even preferred by the Moramets. And then there is the Anomaly. We believe this species will have a favorable response to the creature occupying the space of that system. It is even possible that the cooperative and communication systems of the Moramets will be affected by the Anomaly’s influence.  This is the mission I would ask you to accept from me.  With your work already taking you to the Alpha Centauri system, and the secrecy of your own project,  I believe you are the ideal candidate to undertake this task.

Annalis stood up facing Simona. “I accept with honor this great responsibility you are asking of me.” Annalis stated with as much ceremony as the occasion called for. “I see the logic in asking this of me.  It fits strangely in with my own endeavors.” Simona smiled and indicated the direction of the entrance to the enclosure. “Excellent! Let us retire to the human habitat area of our facility and drink to the success of our join endeavors. We have much to discuss and arrange.” 

Annalis followed Simona out of the enclosure doors, excited and ready for the next stage of her existence.

After a month had passed and Erendar prepared to once again attend to the chimes, Ellyna came to him in his workshop and expressed her wish to speak of what had transpired on their joint venture to the meeting halls.  Deep into the night they spoke of the encounter with the musician and what they both suspected was his malicious intensions toward their creation.  Ellyna spoke of her encounter with Galvinar, as Erendar had tended the chimes, and the hatred that now marred her life, an affliction that she had never known before. This last confession filled Erendar with dread for never had his sister been afflicted with evil tendencies or judgements and he blamed the musician for all her woes.  He also at last perceived the obsession of Galvinar and wished to deny him even the sight of his sister’s face.

The next day as his sister slept, Erendar left their home and made his way to the meeting hall of the Doyens. The foyer was deserted upon his arrival and there was no sensation of watchfulness to mar his work as he tended the chimes. This relieved Erendar but also disappointed him since he wished to confront the musician about his encounter with Ellyna, and to warn him against further interference.  But as the day wore on and Erendar complete his ministrations, no sight of Galvinar had been seen and no watchfulness was felt.

Unbeknown to the craftsman, Galvinar hid amongst the trees on the border between the Fayde and the Realm of the Doyens and watched Erendar as he made his way to the halls. He then took to the road and heading away from the realm, made his way to the lands of the siblings. There he found Ellyna at work on her loom upon the raised platform at the edge of the forest. She was unaware of his presence, being in the trance of foretelling that came upon her when she created.

The musician then pulled from his back a golden harp that was bound there, and began to play. In the months since he first gazed on Ellyna he had labored on the melody that he now played. In this composition he injected all his desire and quest for control into its haunting theme, both beautiful and bewitching.  Ellyna at once fell into his spell, being already in a state of reverie and receptive to magic. 

The musician completed his song and seeing Ellyna returning from her trance, stole away before ever she saw him. He hid again in the trees on the edge of the land and watched her as she gazed in bewilderment at the unfinished tapestry before her, wondering what had broken her dream before her work was accomplished. She then arose from her loom and making her way up to the house, entered and was removed from Galvinar’s sight. Turning, he made his way back into the realm, avoiding the detection of Erendar as he returned on the same road. There was no need to observe further the home of the siblings. Galvinar only needed to bid his time and await the fruition of his labors.

At Erendar’s return he was overjoyed to find Ellyna once again herself and all shadow of her encounter with the musician strangely gone.  Only a month had passed since her visit to the chimes, but his hopes were that the memory had faded and her strong nature had won over the evil influence and she had now returned to herself. He vowed to keep her away from the musician at all cost and in this he knew she would rebel as this would also separate her from the chimes.

As the year drew to a close the Doyen and Doyenne sent another messenger to the siblings, desiring a new commission from the workshop of the artisans.  They wished Ellyna to create a tapestry for the Arch Doyenne who was expecting her second child. She wished for a rendition of her expected child’s former existence in order to prepare the home for his arrival.  In this request unbeknownst to the Arch Doyenne was the interference of the musician, for he wished to look upon Ellyna once more and see the progression of his song.  During the announcement ceremony of the expected child, Galvinar included the praises of the siblings work in his song, thus placing the compulsion within the Doyenne to request this new commission. He also injected doubt within the Elder at the happiness of the new born if his past was not revealed and studied before his emergence. In this act of manipulation of the minds and desires of the Doyens, Galvinar tainted his fate although he knew it not.  The Elders looked with fell judgement on any being who interfered with the free will of another.

At his summons, the first strife arose between Ellyna and Erendar, as there never had occurred within their life together. His desire to isolate her from the musician and also to protect her newly healed mind created a rift between them. Ellyna, knowing the importance of this new request from the Doyenne and the need for direct contact with her subject, was confused by her brother’s reluctance at her acceptance of the commission and her desire to travel to the halls of the Doyen. Their debate went well into the night and escalated with Erendar losing his reason and forbidding Ellyna to go, ran out of their workshop locking her in behind him.

This proved the undoing of his plan as Ellyna knew many hidden escapes from their dwelling structures being the chief designer of their abode. After Erendar had locked the door and Ellyna was sure he had gone up to the house, she went to the back of the workshop near the storage of her tapestry supplies and released the latch on a hidden panel opening onto the platform where she sat to do her meditations. It had been placed there only as a convenience, giving her quick access to additional supplies when she was at her work, relinquishing the need to traverse the entire building. She then escaped the workshop unnoticed, closing the panel behind her and made her way down the green lawn and onto the road that led out of the Fayde. Erendar knew not of her escape until the following morning.

Being an early riser, Erendar woke just before sunrise and quickly preparing refreshment for his interned sibling and himself, made his way out of the house and to the steps of the workshop. Entering the workshop with his peace offering he found Ellyna gone, knowing at once where she had gone although not realizing her full mind. He then took immediately to the road hoping to overtake her before she reached the realm. By this time Ellyna was already in the throes of the musician, Erendar being too late with his pursuit.

As her bother slept in their home, Ellyna entered the upper Realm and by the rising of the sun came to the great doors of the meeting halls. There Galvinar stood in greeting and she found herself glad at their meeting, but knew not why. He led her through the empty foyer and into the inner structure through the left arched alcove. Here lay the private chambers of the retainers of the sacred halls and only the Doyen and Doyenne were allowed entry by their liegemen. Galvinar took Ellyna’s arm and drew her to his own apartments, entering the rooms through a door of ebony leading off a maze of passageways. She did not question this nor ask why she was not brought before the Doyens, thus was the power of the spell that Galvinar had sung to her. There he placed her within his inner rooms and no one was aware of her presence.

Late on the day of Ellyna’s capture, Erendar arrived at the halls of the Doyen calling out for his sister. When he received no response, he entered the foyer and found it deserted. A slight melody from the chimes acknowledged his entry and he moved to the center of the dome and gazed up at their shining form. One of the Doyens found him there saying works of greeting, but also words of confusion at his presence. Although the elder welcomed the brother, his sister had been requested. Erendar voiced his concerns for his sister and also described the strange reaction to the request of the Doyenne that had come over his sibling. He learned to his dismay that Ellyna had not arrived that day and had not answered the call of the Doyenne. The elder did not realize that she was within their own sacred halls and surmised she must be elsewhere within the realm or might not have left the Fayde at all. Erendar’s thoughts went immediately to the musician and his desire for Ellyna and the chimes, but the Doyen pushed these suspicions away, saying their liegeman was away from the realm on an urgent matter. He then bid Erendar to continue his search within the Fayde and turning entered the inner halls.

Erendar spent the next weeks searching the realm and Surrounding areas for Ellyna, traveling further each day in his frugal hunt. He returned home after one last journey to the home of his mother, dejected and full of sorrow at his failure. His mother had hoped Ellyna would seek her out in her strive with her brother, but after a month no sight of her was seen and Erendar gave up, returning to their empty cottage to prepare for his next visit to the chimes.

During her internment, Ellyna revealed many secrets of her abilities, some willingly and others through the enchantments of the musician. She created two great works of art during this period, revealing much of her mind and aspirations. If all had remained as it were and Galvinar remained content with the possession of Ellyna alone, his crimes might never have come to light, leaving her a captive forever, but his desire and jealousy was not alone for Ellyna and her gifts. The burning desire to possess the combined efforts of the siblings that still hung within the entry of the Eldar grew with each passing day and their sweet melody taunted him at the stir of every breeze.

Thus, after a month of captivity in the grips of the musician, Ellyna’s brother returned to the realm to administer to the chimes. As he removed the chimes from their perch, breaking the seal of protection placed on them by Ellyna’s runes, the musician creeped up from the shadows and smote him with an oak branch.  Erendar let fall the chimes and with a mighty disharmony they crashed to the marble floor.  The cacophony made its way into Galvinar’s inner chambers and Ellyna hearing the chimes discord awoke from her enchantment and fled from the apartments of the musician.  She entered the domed foyer and there discovered her captor hovering over the prone form of her brother who’s head was afflicted with a bleeding gash. 

Then all that had transpired over her weeks of internment came rushing back to her in full and a rage filled her at the transgressions of the musician. She reached for the oak branch that Galvinar had let fall at the sound of the falling chimes and with all her new found fury, rushed to the stooping man with murderous intent. It would have gone ill for Galvinar if at that moment the Prime Doyen, on his way to the inner halls, had not entered the foyer, seeing the musicians peril. Catching her arm in midair as Ellyna strove to strike the musician; the Doyen stayed her movements speaking works of calming to her as she struggled against his grip. She released the weapon as the Doyen spoke, dropping her arms in dismay at her actions. Looking down at her brother, she saw his eyes flutter open and his gaze alight on her distraught form. The subject of his search was before him and the worry and agony of the last weeks passed from his mind. Slowly his eyes closed, shutting away the vision of his beloved sister and his spirit passed from his body, dispersing his great creative energy into the cosmos. Then Ellyna, her rage curbed by the elated face of her brother, knelt down and covering his fallen body, wept, forgetting all those around her and even who she was.

The musician had retreated to the wall of the foyer when he glimpsed the rage of the weaver as she stood confined by the Doyen.  He now huddled in terror at what he had done and the arbitration and retribution of the Doyen and Doyenne he would now face for his transgressions: not only to the siblings but also to the Eldar themselves. 

The Doyen and Doyenne, seeing all that had transpired since the creation of the chimes, held a council on the fate of the remaining sibling and their own liegeman. Now was the loss of the chimes influence felt the strongest since with the passing of Erendar and the decomposition of Ellyna’s spirit they could not be repaired.

Thus in consideration of all that had transpired the decision of the Doyens was to release Ellyna from the worlds of the upper realm, finding it the only way to break the grief of her brother’s loss. When the weaver awoke from her grief, she found herself in the lower realm and in mortal form. All memory of her former existence was washed from her mind, being a tragedy that could not be resolved. No retention of her life with her brother remained as the Doyen could not release her from the trauma of his loss. They instead removed him from her mind before her transfer to the lower realm and if an unwanted tear escaped her eye whenever she heard the sound of a chime catching the breeze, she only brushed it away in wonder at the unknown sadness.

They left Ellyna only an echo of her former abilities, a simple fortune weaver among her new people. On Galvinar they also took pity, but knowing he could no longer be included in the service to the Doyen after his transgressions against the Eldar and the perpetration of a death within the Realm, he was also sent in human form to the lower realm and all knowledge of the upper realm was removed from his mind.  He retained a semblance of his former adeptness for music,  but never again would he be able to use it for enchantments or dominance.  He would be a simple musician, entertaining the denizens of his new existence.

Still, in the depth of his mind a desire for Ellyna and her talent lingered unknown to the Doyen, but he was sent far away from where Ellyna started her new life and no memory was in his mind of who or where she was.

Here is part 1 of a prequel to my book The Beaded Tapestry. The finale part 2 will be shared in the next post.

Very long ago when time was new and no blemish marred Lune, there lived a craftsman together with his sister. His skills were renown among the Eldar race and they coveted all that issued from his workshop. Erendar was his name and his sister was Ellyna. She also was illustrious among the Eldar race, for she was a master weaver and her tapestries were both beautiful and foretelling. Their home they made outside the living world, dwelling instead within the parallel existence of the Fayde. This was much to their liking, being isolated where no being could disturb their creative process or steal away the treasures they created.

The nature of the Fayde was also much to their liking, as there grew within its borders many beautiful things full of color, life and music, giving rise within the thoughts of Ellyna and Erendar ideas of creation and visions of what will come.

Erendar spent many joyous hours walking the paths of their world, capturing visions of the living world and stashing these pictures within the drawers of his mind.  Coming to his workshop, he would open these drawers and transform his visions into items of surpassing beauty and wonder.  Sculptures he produced of ebony wood in the likeness of the night sky, dusted with flakes of mica to mimic the stars, and lanyards of jade in the likeness of weeping willow fronds hanging in curtains above the surface of a sapphire lake.  Verily he labored in his craft, finding joy and fulfillment with each creation. 

His sister Ellyna was no less industrious, but found her inspiration within the depths of her thoughts and not in the outer world.  Instead she sat upon a raised platform on the edge of the forest near their dwelling, heeding only the sounds of the world around with her eyes closed.  Within her mind images began to take shape, bringing her visions of things yet to come, but also things that had already occurred, but were hidden. When all was laid out in her mind, she opened her eyes and set her hands to the loom and began to weave.  As in a trance she remained for sometimes days at a time, sitting still as solid stone except for the blur of her industrious hands.  As the creation at last came to fruition, a great sign would escape her lips and her hands would drop to her lap as her eyes rose to gaze upon the finished work.  A tapestry of exquisite form was always before her, reflecting the vision that she had held in her mind; some scene from the distant past, giving guidance, or something yet to be giving hope for the future or warning for what was to come.

As was said of their endeavors, it was greatly desired by the race of the Doyen, being the eldest and highest race of the world. They made their swellings and halls within the High Realm and had a direct road to the Fayde. The Doyen often sent messengers by this path to request works that they wished for the siblings to create. Erendar sat in his workshop on one occasion when one of these messengers arrived. The messenger decreed that the Elders desired a new creation for their halls; A thing of beauty and enchantment to adorn the entry foyer of their great meeting chambers. So great was their admiration of the craftsman’s arts, that they wished this item to be the first thing they viewed when gathering together in thought and decision; A handiwork of color and sound to adorn the entry and bring pleasure and decisiveness to all who entered their grand halls.

Erendar found delight in this request, being eager to try his hand at new ventures.  In all his endeavors, he had never included music or sound and this he was willing to attempt.

He called his sister to him as the messenger departed and explained with excitement this new commission. She also found enthusiasm in this request as she shared in the joy creation of all things gave just as her brother and knew in this they could work in unison to produce a work of immense beauty.

Thus, on a morning of exceeding brightness, the pair began this undertaking for the great halls of the Doyen. Silver bright and unmarred, was brought from their vast store rooms and was laid out in gleaming sheets along with lesser quantities of gold and bronze. Gossamer strands of silk were retrieved from Ellyn’s weaver’s satchel along with all the tools of their trade and all was made ready to begin their great labor. 

Taking the silver, Erendar wrought the gleaming material into delicate hanging chimes.  Their long elegant vessels filled with the gentle atmosphere of the sibling’s realm.  The shining surface was embellished with runes by Ellyna, telling a tale of great deeds past and odes to those yet to come.  Trace adornments of gold and bronze finished off the creation, enhancing its beauty and adding rich undertones to the chimes melody. The final vessels were strung together is precise order, using the gossamer silk, ensuring the sounds of enchantment.

Erendar hung the finished work upon the branch of a golden laurel tree that adorned their land and the sweet melody of the chimes sang out as the gentle breeze played across the silver surface. Far and wide the music traveled across the Fayde and even traversed the borders of their world and was heard within the great halls of the Doyens.

At this time there was a great musician who was in service within the inner meeting halls of the Doyens.  He was named Galvinar and he spent his days relieving the toils of the weary with his songs of joy and enchantment. His abilities were great and he worked tirelessly and with pleasure, but he was also a proud and vain artist coveting and protecting his standing within the inner halls and reluctant to share acclaim in anything he achieved.

As he sat within the entry foyer of the great hall, he harkened to the sweet melody emanating from the Fayde. At once his jealousy arose, thinking an usurper for his position had come and he left the hall making his way toward the reverberations.

As he entered the Fayde and crept nearer the din the sweet melody ceased and he stood as one awakened from a trance.

It chanced that as Galvinar approach her dwelling, Ellyna sensing that their chimes had completed the cuing of its wood, retrieved their hanging creation and wrapping them in silk to quiet and protect their music, placed them in a silver casket decorated with runes of giving. Little did her thoughts dwell on things of deceit or malice being a creature of peace, or she might have known her response as being a warning of peril to this creation she had come to love. 

Unknown to Ellyna, Galvinar had crept up to the edges of her land and espied what Ellyna did, noting the nature of the casket and the letters of giving adorning it.  Then he knew in his heart that this was indeed a gift for the Doyens and the chimes enamoring melody, surpassing his own gifts would threaten his position in the great hall. His thoughts also dwelt on Ellyna and he could sense that she possessed a great gift of foretelling.  This he coveted being aware of its advantages, both good and malicious.  Thus he wished to possess both the woman and her creation, not knowing that the chimes also contained her brothers’ abilities. 

The musician stood long at the borders of the property, watching the woman as she went about her daily rituals, hoping she would release her vigil on the silver casket long enough for him to spirit it away without her knowledge.

It happened at this time that Erendar returned from a visit to their mother’s home a half days travel from the siblings swelling.  She also possessed talents for the foretelling which she had passed on to her daughter although it was altered in nature.

Erendar coming up the road that led to their dwelling beheld the musician watching his sister from his hiding place.  Unlike Ellyna, Erendar was quick to discern evil intent within others and he came upon Galvinar and held him fast demanding words of his intent.

Galvinar caught unaware could not answer truthfully without revealing his evil intent or lust for their creation, thus he remained silent in the strong grip of the craftsman, meeting his eyes with false innocence. Ellyna, hearing the raised voices quickly left her liturgy and raced to her brother’s side.  Seeing the musician restrained by her brother, Ellyna quickly stayed his hand as she recognized him as in direct service to the Doyen and Doyenne.  She pleaded with Erendar to release him,  not caring what he had done, for she knew pain of punishment was placed on any who hurt or hindered one of the Doyen’s inner circle.

At his sister’s words, Erendar released the musician and he fled down the road, returning hence he had come and one again entered the foyer of the Eldar halls. There he sat in silence, pondering and scheming how to bring about his possession of the chimes and the weaver without breaking the laws of the Doyen, his masters.

The siblings, not understanding the extent of their peril, quickly put the occurrence with the musician behind them and prepared for the ceremony of the giving of their labors.  Their joy of the finish creation was empowering and as their nature was at once proud but not possessive, they did not covet the chimes, but only thought of its qualities as a gift. To share with others and thus receive more pleasure from this giving was the extent of their ambition.

The day of the ceremony was set for three days’ time and the brother and sister made all ready for their visit to the realm of the Doyen and Doyenne. 

The morning of the ceremony opened bright and clear and the siblings took to the road leading from their home.  By midday they entered the realm of the Elders, carrying the silver casket between them.  Leading from the great entry of the meeting hall, many steps ran down to the road.  As their journey drew to a close, Erendar and Ellyna came to these steps and made their way up their white lustrous surface to the closed doors.  Many were lined along the stairs to witness the giving ceremony and they cheered and raised their limbs in praise as the siblings reached the top of the climb.  A short note from a gong announced their arrival, although the striker of this note was not visible, and the tone seemed to come from the depths of the structure.  The doors were flung open by wardens within the hall and Ellyna and Erendar entered the foyer.  Round was the foyer, with a lofty domed ceiling and all was built of snowy marble veined with ebony. Across their sight, all dressed in fine silks with flower and wreaths adorning their hair, stood the Doyen and Doyenne in an arch around the center of the foyer. The hall was also adorned in lanyards and wreaths of blossoms, trailing across the arched passageways leading off the domed foyer.

A short stair was in the center of the entry and the siblings ascended these with great ceremony and placed the silver casket upon the raised platform that had been raised there. They lifted the hinged cover in unison revealing the silk covered contents within. Ellyna lifted the chimes from the cushioned interior with her left hand, than unwrapping the silk cover from the gleaming cylinders as she did so, handed the creation to her brother.  Erendar then climbed onto the lofty platform next to the casket, and finding a silver clasp just within his reach, made fast the chimes to the domed ceiling.

At once the space was filled with the music of the chimes and the glittering reflections of the sun as it hit the rune covered surface.  The dance of light mingled with the frolicking melody and all that were within and without the hall were lifted in a tenor of great heights.

The siblings retreated to the entry of the foyer and bowing spoke words of farewell to their creation, relinquishing ownership to the Doyens. 

Now many watched these proceedings with joy and amazement, but one remained apart from the others and looked out from the shadows of one of the many alcoves of the entry to the inner halls. This was Galvinar, who also was the hidden striker of the gong that announced entry into the hall. At first he was hesitant to attend the giving of this item he coveted, knowing it was given to others, but he desired more to gaze on it once more and also to glimpse Ellyna in her triumph. Thus, only he, giving his full attention to the weaver, noticed the slight hesitation she showed when relinquishing the chimes to her brother and also the reluctance in her tone when she spoke the final words of farewell.  Then he became aware that within her heart a possessive flame had been sparked for the exquisite creation.  A glimmer of design awoke within him, laying out how he could master both the chimes and Ellyna.

The renown of the chimes spread out through the realm and the entry foyer was visited by many. They found delight from their beauty on these visits to the council halls of the Eldars, but many came only to view the gift of the siblings and marvel at the emanations.

The care of the chimes was given to Erendar and he made regular visits to the hall to warrant the chimes were well maintained.  On many of these visits a sense of watchfulness would shadow him as he worked and he spent much attentive energy searching about him for the culprit. On his return to their dwelling after one particular disturbing visit to the hall, Erendar voiced his concerns to his sister, hoping she would alleviate his suspicions, knowing she herself was rift of this mistrustful affliction.  To his dismay she only compounded his worry with her own wariness and voiced her desire to accompany him on her next errand to the chimes. In the months since the relinquishing of the chimes, the unrest in Ellyna had been growing and in this unrest her work had suffered. Although the renditions she begets were both beautiful and full of knowledge, they all contained a taint of possessiveness, creating an overprotective tendency in the recipients.  This flaw in Ellyna’s work haunted her thoughts, thus it came to her mind that a visit to this coveted work would relieve her troubles.  For although this desire for the chimes was buried deep, she still felt its pull from afar and felt this was the source of her affliction.  

The following month, Ellyna and Erendar traveled from their home into the Realm of the Doyen and Doyenne.  At the entrance to the meeting hall they were greeted by the High Doyenne, she was delighted in seeing that Ellyna accompanied her brother. They entered the hall together and stood admiring their gift as it encompassed the foyer with its light and sounds.  The watchfulness again smote Erendar as he stood watching the dance and as his gaze tracked around the domed room, came to rest on a figure standing in the shadows of the left alcove. The Doyenne also became aware of the figure and a look of great pride crossed her face as she went to greet him.  She at once took his hand and drew him near to the siblings and introduced him as the musician to the Doyens and one much revered amongst their kind. 

The siblings greeted him with much show of respect and admiration in reverence to the Doyenne, but a shadow was on their hearts at this meeting, remembering their encounter with Galvinar near their home in the Fayde.

Brother and sister were left to their task of the upkeep of the chimes and the Doyenne along with Galvinar traveled together further into the inner chambers.  It was forbidden by any save the Doyens and their retainers to enter the inner halls of the structure.  Ellyna and Erendar remained in the foyer, but troubled thoughts entered their minds as they watched the pair depart.  They both looked with knowing at one another, but remained silent until they were once more in the privacy of their dwelling.  For now they bother realized where the watchfulness came from and that Galvinar coveted their gift to the Doyens.  Nowhere in their thought entered the suspicion of the musician’s desire for Ellyna or his aspirations for her talents.

Before their labors were complete, the awareness of surveillance returned and looking up from her work, Ellyna spied the musician watching her from the doorway leading to the inner chambers.  His eyes glinted with a strange light as he met her gaze and a cold shiver traveled down Ellyna’s spine as he drew near them. A desire to renounce her gift to the Doyens flashed into her mind as she watched the man approach and she quenched the compulsion down before it overtook her will.  She knew as she looked on the musician that the thought emanated from him and a hatred never know to her before grew in her heart.  She at once began to weep and ran from the hall, not knowing what had come over her. Erendar, completing the final care of the chimes, turned from his work to find Galvinar standing beside him and sister nowhere to be seen.  He knew not what had occurred between them or what had become of his sister. He then became aware of her cries, but they were far down the road leading back to the Fade.  He then took up the tools of his trade and let the entrance hall of the Doyens, remaining silent in fear of speaking harsh works to the musician in his wrath.  For he knew that the cause of his sister’s weeping was due to this retainer of the Elders and other ills as well in the months that had passed since the creation of the chimes.  But he stayed his hand, knowing the penalty for violence within the realm and especially to one of their liegeman. He also had no knowledge of the altercation between Galvinar and his sibling, being engrossed in his labors at the time. 

An hour after Erendar took to the road; he came upon Ellyna walking as if in a daze. Her eyes were still bright with unshed tears, but she did not respond to him as he drew to her side. In silence they made their way back into the Fayde and entered their own lands. A deep silence filled their home from that day forward and was only broken by the repressed weeping of Ellyna.

Waves propagate through space, rocking the ship to a calming frequency. The creature tracks the small vehicle as it nears her position, giving her a view of the occupants pressing their faces to the viewing ports. Their wide eyes take in her magnificent vibrant form and she increases the emanations that propagate down her many limbs. The effort increases the reaction from her audience, adding to the flow of emotions being released from the ship. The resulting waves increase the rocking of the vessel and the forms on board grasp for better hold on the rails of the observation deck.

The being catches a glimpse of a kindred light shining from the orbs of one of the tiny creatures peering at her from behind the multitude of watchers. A common frequency emanates from its optical nerves, adding to the harmonics she receives reflected back from the surface of the ship. The orbs of the being enlarge with surprise as it also senses the connection and experiences the feedback. An elated expression passes across the features of the being as it moves closer to the viewing port, pressing its form to the transparent surface.

Dear sister,

I can still feel the cold glass beneath my fingers as I exited this dream of the Anomaly. These images are always enjoyable, especially when I experience them through the perspective of our research subject. To imagine that one day it will respond to my presence brings excitement for what is to come. 

The journey has been quiet so far and the ship is a little over two weeks from the scheduled start of the stasis phase. I thought the tension would elevate as I approached this stage of the journey, but strangely I am relaxed about the upcoming medical process. I believe because you gave such a vivid description of your experience that I feel I know what to expect. We will see if I feel the same and remain calm once I am strapped into a medical cubical being pumped full of foreign substances.

For most of the voyage I have mainly stayed isolated from the rest of the passengers. I spend my conscious hours traveling the decks or utilizing the public areas designated for single travelers. This practice is definitely a change from my first weeks on board. After my encounter with the other passenger during the first few days on board, I quickly lost my enthusiasm for changing my solitary nature and making acquaintances. One definitive event during my fourth week on the Infinity solidified my decision to remain aloof from the rest of the ship. I was having my midday meal in the common dining area, hoping to catch a final glimpse of Earth through the observation viewer that is located there. My fellow table mates were unknown to me, so I was left to my meal as the others conducted private conversations amongst themselves. As my eyes strayed from my last glimpse of the Earth hoovering in the view screen, I caught the two women across from me at another table studying me. One of the pair was the same researchers who had tried to interrogate me during the first days onboard. I thought it odd that their attention was focused on me since the man next to them was relating a very interesting description of the effects the Anomaly had on the weather patterns of New London. Since this is a favorite topic for most of my fellow ship mates, the man usually kept everyone’s attention. When they caught me looking at them, they both looked away, seeming to continue a conversation they were having between the two of them. It seemed innocent enough on the outside, but something about the way they were studying me made me feel like a lab specimen. That and the fact that at least one of them will be accompanying me to the Phycodurus sent my alarm bells ringing. I tried but was unable to catch any of their further conversations, but they both spent the remainder of the meal diligently avoiding looking in my direction. Somewhere in my memory I also recognized the second woman. Something was familiar about her varied expressions. I tried but could not place her. Maybe it was possible I had seen her at one of my lectures or possibly a recent conference. I do not specifically remember ever having dealings with them before, but after the two left the table, I discreetly asked a few of the other researches if they knew anything of them. No one knew anything about them or seemed to be connected with their expedition to New London. Also, no one knew, or admitted to know what their occupations were or their scope of study. I did not want to delve any further in case my interest raised suspicion and got back to the two women and their companions ears, so I stopped my enquiries after a few negative attempts. It was at this point that I made the decision to spend the rest of the voyage as isolated as possible. I have enough research backlogs to keep me occupied as long as we are still in the vicinity of Earth’s universal access network. After that is no longer available, I can delve into my private questions about the Dark Anomaly.

Fortunately there are many private areas, such as the coffee corners you described on your voyage, that I can utilize if I get cabin fever. They do not seem to be as artful or entertaining as you described on your ship, but that is always what you focus on. I have had no further incidents with these three individuals, but I have remained out of the public view as much as possible; even going as far as eating most of my meals in my quarters. The food is the same from all the dispensaries and I assume no better than the cuisine you described on your trip, but I would welcome such conversations of edibles as you experienced with Nickolas. I would enjoy the distraction, but also the chance to discuss the disturbing event I have experienced with you.

I hope you both are slumbering peacefully for the next stage of your life. I miss you immensely.

Love Annalis

Starlings’ jet and dance above my prone form, pacing the clouds streaming by. A storm is gathering on the horizon and the dark billowing forms quickly gobble up the last light of the day. Soft music accompanies the movement of the weather, bringing back memories of our mother earth. My time aboard the Infinity has now reached the end of the third week and already the thoughts of rain and thunder from my past existence are distant and vague. I find myself spending more and more time in these simulation modules, watching the images that will soon be my only reminders of my previous home. It is hard to imagine how indistinct these things will become after my prolonged stay on the space station. Now I acknowledge the need for meditation practices that you have been driving into my head for the last decade. I will begin at once, when the memory of how raindrops feel on my face and the sound of the distant rumble of thunder are fresh in my mind.

The vessel’s constant vibrations have become a calming companion to the silent lonely hours in my living unit. Although I do venture out for most of my meals, a growing unease is keeping me confined to my solitary quarters for what remains of the ships day. This quiet relaxation station which I just described to you is near my quarters and is the only exception to my forced solidarity. The area only accommodates four individual occupants at a time, so I find it mostly vacant when I venture from my room. It is an ideal location to converse with you; similar to the coffee corner you described on your transport. The scenes of Earth provided are a quiet reminder of what I must focus on during my future meditation sessions on the Phycodurus 8. This practice, according to you, should keep my sanity intact. Some of the music is unknown to me, so I will have to add them to my embedded programs. Sound has always been a memory trigger for me, so it will be a favorable addition to the routines I loaded when still at Oxford.

Frost stars are now forming across the plasma screens, accompanied by the sounds of Liszt’s piano works. I can almost smell the chill air of the forest during one of the many winter walks we took in our childhood. The stone raven cradled in my hand as we explored the frosty countryside. How mother would scold when we returned home, covered in mud without our gloves or hats. I carry your frog with me even now and hope my talisman gives you the same comfort on your journey. It seems an eternity since I saw you. To you it has only been a few weeks, for me it feels like a lifetime. So much has happed to me in the last year, that it feels like I am a different person from the sister you left. I guess you will feel the same once I arrive from my long voyage. We will both have so much to catch up on. How will you have altered after spending an entire year on a new planet? Eating strange food and meeting native New Londoner’s, all these things will have a definitive influence on what you will become. That should be the first thing on my agenda when I arrive. Even before I visit my new lab, and yes it will even take precedence over the inspection of my home. I cannot promise you that I will not first take a peek at the Anomaly, but you will be hot on the heels of that amazing sight. I know my lab will be in good hands when you complete the work there, even when that task was originally slated for me. There is no doubt in my mind that you will have left me with an entire year of incredible data on our research subject. Even as excited as I am to review that information, when I arrive I will contact you first and get an earful of what your life has been like on this new adventure.

Ohhh!!! I am doing what I should not, living in the past and future instead of focusing on the present. Life is too short to not seize every moment and give it my full attention. I will close for now and disregard my nagging worries. I am now heading for the observation deck to take a look around before heading to the last meal of the day. Be proud of me for moving outside of my comfort zone. You know how difficult I find that to do.

Love 

Annalis

Dear Victoria,

Ahh!, A perfect beverage for the initiation of my travel correspondence with you. The dispensary on board the Infinity has Grecian mountain tea available on the menu, which was a pleasant surprise when I perused the choices. I now sit, with a warm cup in hand at one of the breakout areas, ready to start our one sided conversation. This sage based tonic became one of my favorite finds during a trip to Crete. Since that time, it has become my go to drink when I feel a drop in my immunity. My internal barometer told me it might need a little help with its defense system over this next leg of the journey. Being surrounded by hordes of people, trapped in a confined space for the next six weeks with no chance of escape to fresh air does not give me confidence my system will hold up intact. So I listened to this instinct and sought out an immunity booster. As I sip the fragrant liquid, the atmosphere of Greece returns to my mind. The scent of the full sun baking my skin, mixed with the feel of gentle waves gliding over my bare feet, comes back to me from that island adventure. The pleasant memories mixed with the natural healing properties of the tea’s ingredients, hopefully will give my system the boost it needs for the next few weeks.

The Infinity is picking up speed as we head for the outer planetary limits of our solar system. I also notice as you did, that the vibrations caused by the ship’s acceleration has a calming effect on my nerves. Luckily this effect comes at an opportunist moment. The vessels occupants have just been through the orientation for the hibernation protocol that is set to begin in a few weeks. For this reason I needed something to distract me from all the complications bombarding my brain. I knew of the risks before, but to sit on a ship with no chance to back out is a lot different than reading case studies in the safety of my lab back at Oxford. Hearing that you may not awaken from stasis at the end of the journey, no matter how slight the probability, while experiencing the vibrations of the ship’s build up in speed is a whole different experience. Families with young children mumbled worried phrases around me, acting as if they had never heard the details of the process before. They frequently glanced down with concern at their offspring playing on the floor of the orientation room as the ominous words were spoken by the medical staff spokesman. I also know how they felt since I began to realize the full impact of these risks for the first time.

So I sit here with my beverage, hoping against hope that some magic lies within its depths, sending molecules of healing to my cells. It is a lot to ask from a few leaves, but since it is the last refuge of the original herbal genus and also a location of one of the bee colonies of Professor Simone, I am placing a great deal of responsibility in these Crete origin ingredients. It somehow all ties in with my current situation. My secret traveling companions, the healing goal of our finished product and my connection to the Anomaly all contribute to my destined future. There must be some distinct possibility that all things combined will sway the universe in our favor and steer a smooth course to our ultimate goal. This sounds so ridiculously philosophical and almost mystical, but I must find come type of solace where I can. Normally you are my source of positive energy, but since I have been robbed of my muse over the past year, I must search for it elsewhere. If that indeed is in the fate and power of the universe (and a small gathering of leaves) than so be it. So, as I said at the beginning of this correspondence, I will put a little faith in my tea. It may be that each element has an equal sway in the grand scheme of things.

I hope your sleep is peaceful.  It gives me hope that mine also will be.

Love

Annalis

Dear Victoria,

As I await my fellow travelers, my mind focuses on the predicament of the Earth. With all the new restrictions on migration, I wonder if the administration who has initiated these new rules has forgotten the past woes of our species. The property wars of the last century and the near extinction of our elders in the decades of the pandemics all lead to asking ourselves the relevant question. How can we block out the memory of the thirty years of evolving epidemics that plagued the beginning of the twenty-first century? The genocide of an entire generation of individuals, unable to defend themselves from a geriatric killer. So much knowledge lost forever when disaster slowly enveloped most of the post 70 population. I have reread these histories as I await my embankment and wonder why the government has again set the Earth up for overpopulation. It makes no sense to me, unless the actions are but a power struggle to control the masses. I believed this type of attitude was well behind us, but it seems history continues to repeat itself; washing away the pain and tribulation of long ago as if they were pages in a fictional novel.

I spent many hours staring at the distant Earth as I await our departure, asking myself these questions; frustrated by the delay. The planning administrator wearies of my constant status checks. It does not help that there is little else to occupy my mind since the data centers on the transfer station are limited to general information and advanced engineering and station operational programs. Our three day delay has now stretched to six and there is no favorable news to lighten this predicament! The only bright event today was the arrival of a few more travelers in my area of the station. They are also bound for the Infinity, so this supplies me with some additional likeminded company. We still miss over a third of the allotted passengers, but at least some are receiving their permissions to leave Earth. The planning officer did inform me that the ship’s crew is complete, so at least there is some positive news.

I have arranged and rearranged my quarters at least three times during my time here. I hope with the new additions the time will pass quicker, but without any indication how long this delay will be I am at my wits end. If we miss the launch window at the outskirts of the solar system, what will that mean? Can the ship make up time like a delayed flight on Earth? So many questions without any answers and this does nothing to relieve my mental status. I was never one to be idle for long, so this forced inertness is frustrating. I wish at times like this I had your ability to self-entertain. I could attempt to create something artistic, but you know what a disaster that would turn out to be. I guess I will continue to release my frustrations out on the historic blunders for our ancestral government and also the current ones. At least it gives me someone to blame.

Love

Annalis

The surrounding space is black as ebony when our travels begin. The abyss of the cosmos awaits our call, to travel beyond our native world. Adventure beckons as we board our ship, to leave all behind and head beyond into the great expanse to create a new epic.

Dear Victoria,

It is always pleasant to start a journey with a Homeric poem, so here is an attempt to capture in words how I am feeling at this moment. We are finally aboard the Infinity after a long arduous delay of eight days and the relief of being underway to our destination is releasing. The quarters assigned to me are not much bigger than on the transfer station, but they are better designed for long term occupancy. The research library included with my travel package is very thorough and I will be able to stay occupied during the six week travel to the outer rim. I still retain access to the university database while in the vicinity of Earth, but I will lose that connection a few weeks out. This short time span should allow me to wrap up the last few things for Oxford before I am out of range. After that, I can concentrate on general research in anticipation of my arrival on the Phycodurus. We will also be utilizing the jump location near Pluto for our Gambel process as your ship did, but with the current coordinates of Mars, we will not be privileged with a view of that planet as you did during your journey out of the solar system.

The ship is very luxurious and I feel privileged after the sparseness of the transfer station. There are many communal areas to explore and in the three days since we boarded I have explored many of the options. The talk among the passengers in these areas has centered mainly on the immigration fiasco over the first few days, but now the discussions have evolved into the much more relevant topic of New London. It is interesting to hear all the different reasons people are leaving the Earth and heading for this new undertaking. There are as expected many research fellows such as myself, hoping to find new insight into the Anomaly, but there are also families and individuals searching for a new life. Maybe they are hoping for a fresh beginning under the influence of the creature occupying the space in the Alpha Centauri system or just a new prospective on life. A few artists have been utilizing the community areas also and I have tried to engage then in conversation when encountering them. This is probably an attempt on my part to find a substitute for your missing influence, but I am also curious what goals they are striving for once they engage with the creature. This has not been a very successful endeavor, since most of these individuals are very closed to any type of interrogation about their purpose. I have received only a few snippets about working with New London’s native color variances or light studies, but nothing more specific than that. I guess we all hold our dreams and aspirations close to our chest, fearing a possible encroachment on our ideas. I know I also have side stepped a few enquiries about my own plans once I reach our destination. I only mentioned my first stop off at the Phycadurus, since it will be no secret that I am leaving the Infinity once we reach that point in the journey. Strangely two passengers that were involved in this discussion seemed to know this point already and jumped at the chance to interrogate me further. The research duo seemed to be traveling to the station themselves, but only for a short stay before traveling on to New London when their business was accomplished. What that business was and what the purpose of their trip was they did not disclose. They both brought up knowing I would accompany them on the transfer shuttle between the Infinity and the space station, before I mentioned my itinerary. Very strange, but it was never a secret I would be destined for that location once our deep space portion of the trip was accomplished. I only wonder when and where they overheard this piece of information. I did not supply them further information even though they evidently wanted more.

So I am at last beginning my journey after a year delay. Let us hope the process moving forward goes as planned. I only need to get past the possible complications from the stasis procedure. I assume my decision to have a full regeneration of my missing limb, instead of a prosthetic, will turn out to be a good choice.

Write again to you soon.

Love

Annalis

There is some debate on this one. The pattern said it is a bird. Everyone else sees a sea horse.