"Last Furil of Drak Morak"
by: Mousira

          Setrelca paced her house. Dralil was late. Again... Thought Setrelca. Why do I put up with him? It's not like I couldn't get another guy. Oh well. Just then the sound of a car and door was heard. She walked over and yanked open the door.

          "About time." She grumbled. "What took you... Uh. Is it Halloween already?" She looked at the creature that stood before her. It stood roughly about 6 feet, and had dark brown eyes. What surprised her was that it looked like a tiger and a human squeezed together. It looked up at her and smiled.

          "Don't be frightened. I will not harm you. I have come to tell you something that will change your life forever. But I cannot tell you here. May I come in?" He said all the while stepping forward. Setrelca stepped back, thinking that if she closed the door and waited he might leave. But something about him seemed familiar so she nodded her head and motioned for him to come in.

          He walked in and looked around. While he studied her house, she studied him. He seemed well built. Muscles rippled under the soft white and black fur that covered his body. He wore a sash around him from his shoulder hanging down across his chest. His tail twitched and swung to the sides. His eyes were set deep into his face and were slightly hidden by his nose that stuck out about an inch from his face. His paws were huge, but had a slight difference to them. They looked human in appearance, but had the spaces between the toes for his claws. He looked at her.

          "You've grown since the last I saw of you." He spoke calmly. But before she could ask what he meant, he continued. "I know, you don't remember me. That was the problem you thought might happen during the transfer. But I guess it let you go around the fur-less society better."

          "What do you mean. Sorry to interrupt, But who are you, what are you, and what do you want to tell me?" She said walking slowly to circle around him and get closer to the kitchen. If he turned out hostile, she wanted to be close enough to grab something to save herself.

          "I am your student/assistant, Eleibag R. I am a Furil, as are you. I wish to tell you what you told me to tell you when I came to find you 10 fur-less years later. You were a scientist. You had figured out a way to travel between dimensions. So you created a portal to allow this. But the portal was untested. And you wanted to be the first to go. So you left with permission from the council. You and 15 others were sent out to different worlds.

          You thought that the fur-less' were the farthest along in technology and thought they would be best to speak to if a trade was to be made for goods. The only problem was, to do this, someone had to first find out about their culture. You went to their world, here, as the case might be. Something went wrong in the transfer. When we changed you to a fur-less, something must of hit your head, because you couldn't remember a few things. But you remembered enough and continued with the project. When you went through the portal, a malfunction happened. It resulted in you forgetting everything.

          After 10 fur-less years, you had a mail specified to be delivered on that date. It had instructions that if something should go wrong, I was to fix the machine and find you. I would know something had gone wrong if you were not back within one fur-less week of my receiving the letter. I have followed your instructions and have come to take you home." He smiled at her and held out his paw for her to take.

          "Whoa! Stop right there. Look. I am a human. Not an... animal like you. My boyfriend will be here soon. So I think that you and whoever sent you here to make fun of me can leave me alone." She moved herself to the door and opened it so that he could leave.

          Eleibag just shook his head. "I'm sorry to tell you this. But it seems he will not come. For he found another person to be with."

          Setrelca looked at him and growled. "What is THAT supposed to mean!" She started towards him, but something seemed odd. Why am I doing this? How did I growl like that? Is what he said true, that I AM an animal person? No. It couldn't be!

          "Whoa. No need to get upset. I saw him on my way here. We've been able to watch you at certain times to see how your progress is going. Also to see how many years have gone by." Eleibag smiled. Setrelca lost it and leaped at him. He just caught her and held her so that she could do no damage.

          "Well, I guess you will see for yourself. Hmm...?" Just then, the area around them shimmered and for Setrelca, everything went black.

....A few hours later?....

          Setrelca woke up and looked around. She saw she was in her room. It was just a bad dream. Then she turned to look towards the door and saw a little girl. At least, without the soft grey fur, the pink nose and tail, she would have been.

          "Wha...?" Setrelca started. The girl smiled and chirped at her. Then the little girl seemed to realize something.

          "Sorry. I thought you were a Suilian. But I see you're a Mourian. The ears kinda says otherwise." She smiled then seemed to look worried. "What's wrong. You seem kinda scared."

          "With good reason too, I'm afraid." Setrelca jumped at the sound of Eleibag's voice. "She was the first scientist to go through the dimension-door."

          The Suilian looked at her amazed. "OH WOW! I am so glad to meet one of the few who have returned. How was your trip? Did you meet anyone? Do they have great food? Do they..." Eleibag cut her off.

          "She's a bit tired. So how about taking your chatter out of here, Lilak?" Eleibag said in a calm voice. Lilak sighed and turned to leave. She looked back once more and smiled then left. Eleibag turned to Setrelca.

          "Sorry about that. She does have a tendency to go on and on about things. So, how would you like to get dressed and we can go out and about. Just so that you can get used to being home."

          "Dressed? But aren't I already....?" She looked down at herself and her first shock was the fact she was naked. The second shock was that she had white fur. She shrieked at the top of her lungs. Eleibag ran over and covered her mouth. She fought back at first, but it slowly turned to tears. She pushed his hand away and sobbed.

          "What did you...? What am I?" She questioned Eleibag. Instead of answering he pointed at a mirror in the corner. She gathered a blanket around her and walked over to it. Looking back at her was herself, but with large ears and a small petite nose. Her face and body was covered with short white fur, and she could see a tail twitching in the back. She turned back to Eleibag.

          "What the hell do you think you are! Change me back! NOW!" She screamed at him. He shook his head and hugged her. She pushed away from him and went to sit on the bed. He looked at her and sighed.

          "I can't change you back. This IS who you are. If you stayed in that other world any longer, we would have lost you forever. I'm so sorry. I wouldn't hurt you on purpose. I know you think that Centaire, as the fur-less call it, is your home. But Earth really is!" He looked at the ground and sighed. "I'm so, so sorry..."

          Setrelca looked at him and wondered what was it about him that seemed so familiar. Maybe I should start believing him. Maybe then I will learn what's going on. She smiled at him and nodded.

          "It's not your fault I guess. How about I get dressed now. Then you can show me around. Hmm?" Setrelca watched as he lifted his head and smiled. She could see he was close to crying. He quickly wiped away the tears and smiled again.

          "Ok. Get dressed."

          She waited for him to leave. After about a minute she sighed. "Aren't you going to leave?"

          "But I thought... Oh, I see! You still think... right! I see it'll take you a bit to get used to being a Furil again." At that he turned and left the room. She stared at the door and then shook her head. She then got up and got dressed.

....A while later....

          "It's all so beautiful!" Setrelca looked everywhere. To her right was a Waterfall with the water cascading into a clear pond. Trees were everywhere of each size shape and some of different colors. A bird that looked like a parrot fluttered between the trees. All around her were animal-people of each furry-kind. She looked up at Eleibag who stood beside her. Due to her size as a Mourian, she found she was at about the same ratio as a mouse to a tiger back on her old home-world. But due to the human-halves, she was about 3 feet tall.

          "Would you tell me something?" She asked him. 

          "Anything. What do you want to know?" Eleibag asked.

          "Umm... Was there... Was there anything between us? I mean before I left?" Eleibag shifted a bit at the question. "You don't have to answer if you don't want to Eleibag."

          "It's not that. I was just thinking should I tell you the truth or not. But I then thought it would be unfair to tell you a lie. But yes, we did have a small relationship of sorts. But you had a problem with a Chipian named Nesa. He wanted to be with you. But you didn't know if you wanted to be with him or myself. So I guess you found a way to get out of it. At least for a while." He smiled at her and winked.

          "You wanna know what I find funny. When you first left, you were almost 9 years younger than me. But now, because time goes faster on that fur-less planet, you're a year older than me. Funny, don't you think?"

          "Yeah. Funny..." Setrelca said a bit puzzled. After what she just heard, it seemed as if there was more to it. At least, that's what his tone of voice said. "What is wrong with it all? You made it seem like there is more to this then you're letting me know."

          Eleibag sighed. "I see you are still good at picking out things. Well, there are... Complications." He took a deep breath and started.

          "It happens that you were supposed to marry him. But I didn't want you to. I just,... I, saw you two dancing one night. I think, it was then that I realized I liked you. When it was a few weeks before the wedding, we were at a ball. I remember coming to you when you were alone and asked you to dance. We danced, and..." Eleibag stopped for a second.

          "And?..." Setrelca

          "It doesn't matter right now, I'm supposed to be showing you around and helping you get used to your body again." Eleibag smiled at her and starting walking again. Setrelca looked after him. What is he hiding?

          Shrugging, she hurried after him.

          "Wow, there is so much in this world. I never would have imagined it." Setrelca said in open appreciation. Eleibag smiled and crouched next to the lake at the base of the waterfall to get a drink.

          "Thirsty?" He asked.

          "Uh, no. I'm fine." She said while looking around. At the top of the waterfall she saw a small black figure. "Who or what is that?" She pointed and Eleibag looked. Just then the figure called down.

          "HELLO!!!! I'M COMING DOWN!!!!" The figure then stepped back and leapt off the cliff. "CANNONNNNNNBAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!!!" He hit the water and created a huge splash that swept out to engulf Setrelca and Eleibag.

          "Who or What was THAT?" She asked. Eleibag was laughing as he went over and helped the small skunk out of the water.

          The skunk shook himself off and hugged Eleibag. "Hiya Buddy! Didn't know it was you, how ya doing?" Before he could answer the skunk saw Setrelca. "Well, hello. I'm Ele, Ele Wronb that is. As you can see, I am a Skurian. And I would guess you are my friends new toy, huh? Huh? Am I right?" He walked over and put an arm around her and looked her all over. "Hmmm... Not bad Eleibag. She seems to be a great little package."

          Eleibag shook his head. "That's the doc. The one who went through the rift to the fur-less world. And she's not my toy."

          Ele looked at him then at Setrelca. "OH! You're one of those people. Whoops. I musta been really rude to you. You're used to those Mahun's ways."

          Setrelca looked at him. "How do you know what I was called? From what I've heard, everyone here calls my people 'fur-less'." She pointed at Eleibag. "He's one of them."

          Ele smiled. "Easy, I was also on that world. But I only stayed for about 3 Muhan Years. I guess you stayed longer. I stayed long enough to see an Amusement Park. Oh! It was such fun. As soon as I came back, I made one. Well, the builders made it, but I had the idea for it." He then hugged her and stepped back. "Well, I better get going. I'm trying to hide from Quinomide."

          "Who?" Setrelca asked.

          "Quinomide. She's a new type of Turgrian, like Eleibag here. But instead of being white, she's orange. And she's always following me. I just don't know what to..."   Just then a small orange streak fell on top of Ele. The little cub that was sitting on his back looked up at Setrelca.

          "Hi there! I'm Quinomide. I've been watching you for a short while. You're one of those travellers. I think that's so coooool." She held her paws close to her face and pouted. She then looked at Ele with that expression. "Why did you leave me behind? You know I wanted to jump with you."

          "Sorry Quinny. But I saw our good friend Eleibag and wanted to say hi." He smiled at her, then shifted a bit. "Could you get off now? You're not as light as you used to be."

          "Oops. *Giggle* Sorry, Ele." She got off then waited for him to stand up, then she hugged him from behind and stayed there.

          "Well, gotta jet. I got things to do, people to tease and things to run." Ele said to Eleibag. He turned to Setrelca. "Nice meeting you. Ci-yo!" He then broke from Quinny and ran.

          "Wait for me Ele!!!!" She yelled, running after him.

          Eleibag laughed and looked at Setrelca. "Those two will get together someday. But for now, she's having fun with him."

          Setrelca nodded. Eleibag motioned for them to continue, and she walked with him back to the lab.

          "This whole entire thing seems to real to be a joke. But I still can't believe it. Is there anything else that may help?" Setrelca asked Eleibag and Lilak. They were all sitting in the main lab room. Lilak sighed and sat back. Then she jumped up.

          "I know! Her old family pictures. And pictures of her with her friends. Does she have any?" Lilak asked Eleibag.

          He thought for a second. "No... Wait, yes! She does! I'll go get them." He got up and walked out of the room.

          Setrelca sat back and smiled. Now I'll finally know the truth.

          Eleibag came back and plopped down on the chair. He had 3 books with him. He saw Setrelca looking at him. "You were only 7 when you left. So you didn't have much pictures taken. But here, this is a picture of you and your parents."

          She took the picture and looked at it. It showed two mice holding a little mouse between them. The mouse in the middle had purple tinted hair and a blue nose, just like hers. The one that would be her mother looked very beautiful, with long blue tinted hair and a light pink nose. The father didn't look all together well, but he had a huge smile and his hair was red tinted and he had a dark blue nose.

          "I guess, I'm a mix of the two. Why the strange colors for hair and their noses?" Setrelca asked.

          "No one knows. It seems that all Mourians have different colored noses, hair, and some have odd colored eyes. At least, odd to the rest of us. But it seems normal for them. This next picture is of you at age 5, when you and I won a contest for the best 'new development' of a cure. We found the cure for Sileprosy." Eleibag handed her another picture.

          It showed her and a white-tiger cub, which she took into count was him. "Sileprosy?"

          "It's when Furil's transform with the moon. It's how we first found out about Muhan's. Furil's with Sileprosy turn into fur-less's each full moon. But we found the cure. Nearly every Furil is free of the virus. Only those who couldn't afford the treatment are stuck with it. But with the new law being passed, all Furil's will be free."

          "New law? What is it?" Setrelca asked while looking through some of the other pictures. Then she recognized one person. "Hey! This is me. When I was Muhan."

          "Yes. You told me to take a picture of how you looked when you changed, so that when we turned you back into Furil, you would remember even if something went wrong." Lilak said to her.

          "Ah. So I really am a Furil. It would make sense. Why I didn't have a family, and I had to get by on my own. Now it does all make sense. But about the law. What is it?"

          Eleibag smiled. "Easy. It was a bet you had with the government. If you could go to the Muhan's world and come back, then you had one week to remember everything of your Furil life. If you could do it..."

          "...No Furil would have to pay for anything every again. I remember!" She smiled at Eleibag and saw him smiling back. "I can remember a lot." She looked at Lilak. "You've been my friend since we were 3. But at the time I went through the portal, I hadn't seen you in almost 2 years." 

          "OH! You do remember!" Lilak gave Setrelca a hug and sat back again. "I can't believe you remember it. Do you remember who Nesa is?"

          Eleibag looked a bit nervous but didn't say anything. Setrelca nodded. "Yes... He's a Chipian. And he decided I should marry him. But I didn't want to. I found the portal, and used it to make a bet with him."

          Eleibag leaned forward. "Bet? What would that be?"

          "If everything went right, then I would not have to marry him. And it did. So I'm free of him!" She clapped her hands together. "And I remember what happened that night we danced now. But I think I'll keep it our secret."

          Eleibag squirmed slightly, but nodded. "So now we can go to the high council. But maybe you wish to rest a bit longer."

          "Yes... I wouldn't mind that." Setrelca said. She started to get up to go to her room when a small nose poked in.

          "Oh! There's others here. I'll... I'll come back later."

          "Please come in." Setrelca said. The nose in the door twitched a couple of times. Then it came in.

          Before them stood a Hamster. "Uh... Hi. I'm... I'm... I am Tahann."

          "Welcome Tahann. Are you new here?" Setrelca asked.

          "No. Tahann's been working here for a month. But you wouldn't know Setre." Eleibag said. Lilak nodded.

          "Yes, he's been helping me with a few things. But he's very shy." Lilak said going over to him.

          "I... I was just br...bringing a message for you Li. The high council is becoming annoyed with the 'portal project'. They want all people back and they want their report. By tomorrow."

          "Tomorrow!? But they told me I'd have one week to recover my memory!" Setrelca shouted. "I can't believe them! Tomorrow!" Then she noticed Tahann was fidgeting. "I'm sorry Tahann. I just came back from the Muhan world. I still think like them at times. They use their voice to prove a point. I have some memories back. But they are still coming back as I speak."

          "O..Oh! You... You're the... her! Wow... I wanted to be on that project. But they told me no." He looked sad at that but still managed a slight smile.

          "That's my fault Tahann. I found out that Himarlin's cannot go through the stage of change to look like other races. It would have killed you. So I think it's best you didn't push to go." Tahann's eyes opened wide and he nodded.

          It was the next morning. Setrelca got up and stretched. Looking out the window, she saw the sun was still not up. She shrugged and turned over to fall asleep. On the opposite side of the room, she saw Eleibag sleeping on his bed. She smiled and fell back asleep.

          A few hours later, Setrelca woke up to someone gently shaking her. Her eyes snapped open and she looked up at Eleibag.

          "You know. I totally forgot you used to do that. I only remembered last night." She laughed and shook her head. Then she waved him back a bit and sat up. She stretched and yawned. Looking out the window, she saw the sun was rising slowly over the horizon. "That's so beautiful. Don't you think so?"

          "Yes. I probably know something that's more beautiful than that, though." He chuckled and went over to the door. He opened it and went out.

          Now what was he... OH! She blushed as the realization of his statement hit. She got up and got dressed. Checking her reflection she went to the door and went towards the lab.

          "So, we have 4 hours to get to the high council's chamber and give them my report. Everyone clear on this?" Setrelca looked over her audience and waited for anyone to disagree. When no one did, she continued.

          "Ok. So I will interview each one of you, it will be a 5 minute interview, just to make sure everyone knows about their Furil lives and the lives they lived the last few months of this world, years or days of the other worlds."

          Some people groaned at this, but realized the importance of it. Setrelca scanned the audience. "Yerffej! You're first."

          The bushy tailed wolf looked up at her from his conversation with Ninefer J. He nodded and looked back at Nin. She gave an exasperated sigh and waved her hand to say he could go. Yerffej looked a little hurt, but hurried to follow after Setrelca.

          "So whatcha want Set?" He yapped as he followed her into the conference room.

"If you paid attention and didn't flirt with Ninefer all the time, you'd know. I need to know anything you can remember from Xenofex and you're Furil lives that you can remember." She tapped on the desk.

          "Oh. Ok. Well. The Zierons are very odd. Their culture is a basic form of ours. They have many resources that we could trade with them for. Apparently, they have very little food resources. I remember from my Werlian days before the 7 year vacation to Xenofex that I was a Werlian. My name is Yerffej. I am an assistant consultant to this project. I was hired for my ability to learn things quickly and my endurance made me perfect to go to that partially toxic planet. I'm single and have no pups. But I hope to have a pub soon." He smiled.

          "Pub?"

          "A pup-cub."

          "Oh. Ok. You're dismissed. Send in Ninefer. And don't dally Yerf."

          "No prob Set!" He raced out of the room and down the hall. Setrelca just shook her head.

          Two hours later, Setrelca was finally finished. She sat back and sighed. A knock came at the door. Never fails. "Come in!"

          Eleibag stepped in. He looked around the room and finally spotted her. "Hi. Just wondering if you wanna go catch a bite to eat before we head out to Grand-Fil-Mar."

          "Sure. I'm done the interviews. So I have an hour to waste." She smiled at him and got up. He held the door for her. As she went out she couldn't help but get revenge. "The view from this morning can only be surpassed by the view from my height."

          She looked back and saw him shake his head as he blushed slightly. "Always have great comebacks. Don't you?"

          "Of course." Setrelca laughed as Eleibag did a playful growl and started running after her. She ran out and down to the Ruil.

(Ok... Small author's note here. Many words I am using in this story may or may not make sense. So, I shall explain a few of the tougher ones. Muhan is just Human scrambled up. Ruil is something like a stable. <The use of Automobiles is not heard of on Drak Morak.> The races <example Mourian>, is explained under character descriptions. Alright. That's it. If you see any more Blue words in brackets, please remember these are authors notes. They will explain things you may or may not know. Always best to check these. O^_^O Now back to the story.)

          Setrelca stood up in front of the High council. "Good Afternoon great ones. I have returned from the portal. My name is Setrelca Crage Rohn. I am the Lead Scientist of Furil's Trade Worldly Via the Portal, or F.T.W.V.P. I have come to finish our deal. The freedom of all Furil's to never pay again."

          "And how do you plan to prove that you remember all? As was our agreement?"

          "I told you that I will answer any and all questions you ask."

          "Who am I?"

          "Lord Rerpy the Second."

          "What am I?"

          "You're a Dogrian. And you are of the Silver Hills Clan."

          "Good. Now, what was our Deal?"

          "If I could go to Centaire, the world of the Muhan's and stay there for 10 of their years, three of our months, then return and remember all from both lives that no Furil would have to pay for anything ever again."

          "What was the code I told you to tell me upon you're return."    Setrelca smiled at this. It was an easy one. Her phone number in Centaire was that very code. "3892321"

          Rerpy smiled. "Good. You have remembered. Now come with me for a few minutes. The rest of the questions cannot be asked here. Let all assembled meet here again in 2 hours hence!"

          Eleibag looked at Setrelca and she just nodded saying she'd be alright. Then she turned and followed Rerpy.

          Going down a long corridor, Setrelca followed Rerpy past the pictures of the great heroes of the Empire. He stopped in front of one.

          "Do you know who this is?" He asked her. She realized that this was the first question.

          "He's Sir Rerpy the First of Relinoir. He saved the city of Dar-Moor-Tren. He was your father until he died in the battle at Sur-Milar." She replied. He nodded slightly and continued walking.

          After another few feet he stopped again. He turned to the wall and pointed at it. This was a silent question. Setrelca walked over and moved aside the picture. Then she put her left paw on the touch pad and her right paw typed in the code. The wall swung open and Rerpy motioned she should go first.

          She stepped in and walked over to a pedestal. On it lay a piece of paper, worn and yellowed with age. She took the pen next to it and looked down. She smiled and wrote something. Then, setting the pen down, she turned and walked back out.

          The door closed and Rerpy turned to her. "The law is now written." He then walked back to the main chamber.

          Two hours later, all were assembled once more. Eleibag stood next to Setrelca and looked down at her. She smiled at him and then motioned for him to listen. Rerpy stood at his podium.

          "Let all here assembled bare witness. As my word is law and I must follow the written law, I here-by say that upon this day, the Law is written! No Furil is to Ever Pay for Anything Ever Again." He nodded to the law-press and the audience. He then turned and left the court.

          Eleibag hugged Setrelca and found she was hugging him back. She had finally done it.

          They all were riding back to Mirc-Sy-Driw, it was early evening now. Setrelca looked back and saw that a few people were falling behind. She called a halt. "I think we should camp here for the night. Many of us don't look like we could make it."

          Many nodded agreement and set up for the night. Setrelca was setting up for a fire and some food, when Ninefer came over.

          "Hi there Setrelca. It's been busy today, don't you think?"

          "Yeah, just a bit. Can you hand me that?"

          "Here, so umm, how's Ele?"

          "I only met Ele not that long ago..."

          "Oops. *giggle* I meant Eleibag."

          "He's fine. Why?"

          "No reason. How was your trip to the fur-less world?"

          "Centaire was ok. I sorta had forgotten I was a Furil, but I remember having fun as a Muhan. I had a boyfriend, and he..."

          "What's a boyfriend?"

          "It's a single guy that you go out places with, spend time and do things with. But ONLY him."

          Ninefer played a bit with her hair. "Hmm. Sounds kinda boring. I like being with all the guys I can be." she smiled and looked at Setrelca.

          "It was the law there, Nin. Anyway, I couldn't mate with him, we were both children there."

          "But you're 17! How?"

          "18 is still young on their world." She shrugged and watched the fire. "It's ok I guess. There was people here I wouldn't want to live without." Setrelca didn't notice Ninefer's look, but it was probably for the best.

          Setrelca got up from the fire. She looked around and yawned. She stretched and looked for Eleibag. Not seeing him, she shrugged and went to her tent. She walked in and got ready for bed. She then sat on the edge of her bed and sighed.

          Setrelca layed back on her bed and felt someone beside her. She looked and saw Eleibag laying there. She smiled and ran her paw through his fur. He moaned slightly and turned over. She giggled and fell asleep herself.

          The next day on the trail home, Eleibag rode up next to her. "Why don't we get back as soon as we all can, then give everyone the day off, except the Portal shifts?"

          Setrelca thought over it. "Sure. But tomorrow I expect everyone to be ready to get cracking."

          Eleibag stiffled a laugh. "Yessir.... uh I mean Ma'am."

          Setrelca just shook her head and waved her paw in a dismissive manner. Eleibag turned and went back to tell the others.

          Well, the rest of the Journey should be uneventful...

          Setrelca layed on her bed in her room. What a day! No, what a week! I left so much here unfinished. Everyone is gone today. Maybe I should do some work. She got up and walked out of her room. Walking past all the sleeping quarters, into the gym and through, then finally reaching the mini-labs and the hall to the Portal room. She turned into her solitary lab and looked around. Looks so much like a storage closet, in fact I use it for that purpose as well... don't I? Oh well. She took down an experiment from when she left and started work.

(Ok... now I'm going to change things here for a bit. We're gonna leave Setrelca and focus on Eleibag. They are both the main characters, but I think some history is needed, and only Eleibag can provide it. O^_^O)

          Eleibag walked into his room. He saw it was empty besides the two beds, and two storage cases. He walked over and opened up one of the cases. Inside was some clothing, a few books and a scroll, and 3 photo albums. He took out the scroll and went to his bed.

          Laying down on his bed he opened the scroll and read it. It was from Setrelca almost 1 year ago, and he kept it ever since. Whenever he felt down he'd read this scroll. It was written in her fancy handwriting. The reason she wrote it was because she didn't know if she'd live going through the portal. The message on the envelope it came in said "To be opened after I go through the portal."

      Dear Eleibag.

I write this to you in hopes that it will always cheer you up. I wish for you to remember all the goods times we always had as children. If I died in that portal, I'd never wish you to be sad.

I remember back when we were young, and you said you wanted to be the greatest Turgrian of all. I always thought you were. We've been friends since My birth. But It seems fair. I wonder what I'd look like at your age, but I guess I'll always be a child to you.

There is one hope though. If I made it through the portal, the time goes quickly on that other world. Maybe I can use that to reach an older age. I hope to stay 10 years on the planet called Centaire.

If I do get through it, and I come back. Please make sure I remember everything, including that night that we danced. Well, actually, you danced and I stood on your feet. I've always been so small.

One thing I think you'd love to know, and you can ask me to do this when I return. All Mourians are supposedly able to change their sizes. I can do it. I can grow from a Mouse's height to a Muhan's height. (Muhan's are what we call "fur-less". They also abound on the planet I'm travelling to.)

Remember, I'll always be there for you, or beside you. Allowances for my state of being.

     Your Friend,

Setrelca Rohn.

          He smiled and closed it up. He walked back over to the case and placed the scroll in. Then he took out the Photo albums. He walked back over to his bed and sat them down. He stood for a moment.

          "I wonder if Setrelca would like to see some of these pictures?" He wondered aloud to himself. He paced a bit. From out in the gym he heard a noise. He turned and went to investigate it.

          He walked into the gym and saw a small tiger playing on the bars. To the right of the gym, he saw a white female tiger. He shook his head, for these tiger's he knew.

          The white tiger walked over to him, as she got closer she seemed to smile.

          "Hello Eleibag, why have you been avoiding me?" Asked Ninefer.

(Ok... so I lied. You thought you'd get more of a history, but I don't wanna spoil it all. But we need to get back to Setrelca.)

          Setrelca was finishing up her experiment and cleaning up when she heard a laugh. She put the last jar on the shelf and walked out to the gym. She saw Quinomide hanging from the bar and smiling at her.

          "HI!!!!" She lept down and ran over to Setrelca. "How're you doing? I'm doing fine. Whatcha been up to?"

          Setrelca smiled at her. "I was working on a project I forgot to finish before going to Centaire, the fur-less world. But I'm fine. Have you seen Eleibag?"

          "Oh yeah. Ninefer is talking to him in his room." She smiled and laughed. "I'm gonna go play more. You coming? I'm waiting for Ele to get back."

          Setrelca's eyes widened. "His room? No I can't play now." Setrelca hurried down the hall towards her room. Quinomide just starred after her.

          "What a funny girl. Must have rubbed off from that trip she took."

          As Setrelca neared her room, she could hear voices. She slowed her pace and listened. She could hear Eleibag and a female voice she took as Ninefer's.

          "Why torture yourself AND me, El? You know we're both Turgrians, possibly the ONLY two of our color."

          "Nin, it isn't you. Honestly. But my loyalty is to the lab. I have so much to do here, and I can't spare a moment."

          "Ha. Likely. You just wanna stay with Setrelca. She's a Mourian. She only comes up to your waist for Drality's Sake!"

          "I don't care. She's my friend, I've known her since HER birth. I won't just drop her like she's nothing. And I don't want to be with you."

          "What?! Am I ugly or something? Or are you just blind! You two can never be!"

          Setrelca heard movement and something large slam onto the floor.

          "NINEFER!!! What're you doing?!"

          Setrelca chose this moment to walk in.

          "You know. I could swear that you're room is about 50 ft from here Nin."

          Ninefer stood up from her position on Eleibag and starred at Setrelca. "What's it to you?"

          "I'm tired. Get out of my room."

          "It's his room too! You can't kick me out."

          Eleibag looked at her. "Get out."

          "But El..."

          Setrelca smiled. "You heard him. Get out."

          Ninefer glared at her once more then left. Setrelca turned to Eleibag who still layed on the floor.

          "It just sounded like so much fun, I wanted to join in. She does have a point you know."

          "What point?"

          "You two are probably the only two white Turgrians. I'm only a Mourian, there's lots of us."

          "You're missing the point I made to her."

          "What point? That you'd give up your happiness for something I started? I thought you were smarter." She shook her head and walked out of the room. Leaving Eleibag there with his mouth open.

          Setrelca went outside and walked around. Why do I have to put up with everything? It was so much simpler on Centaire. Go to school, go home, hang out with Dralil. Oh yes, that cheat! I wonder how long he was doing that? How did Eleibag know? I'll go find out. She turned and saw the waterfall. At the top of it she saw a small figure. She shook her head.

          "Hey! Ele! Is that you?" She shouted up. The figure looked around then jumped.

          "Setrelca? I'm coming down." He jumped off and Setrelca moved back before he hit the water. When he got out he shook himself off then looked at her.

          "Hi. Whatcha doing out here? Where's Eleibag?"

          "He's at the lab. I just saved him from embarrassing himself, then he shows me he's an idiot. What am I going to do?"

          "Whoa. Explain this to me. I wasn't there, k?"

          Setrelca went into telling him what went on and Ele just nodded along, letting her speak. When she was finished he sighed.

          "I think you were the idiot. He chose YOU, not her. That means that you're more special to him. Nin has been after him since you left. I can't believe he actually let her into his room. If it wasn't for Yerffej, I'd introduce her to someone else."

          "Someone else? All she wants is a white Turgrian like herself."

          "I know, but the guy I have in mind has been her friend for a long time. But they haven't seen each other for years. He wants to meet her again, but I can't bring him to her unless Yerffej would be alright."

          Setrelca thought for a moment. I have just the person to get Yerffej's mind off Nin, long enough for you to get her and her friend together."

          Setrelca went over and sat beside Ele and told him of her plan. After she did, Ele was smiling.

          "That'll definitely work. Ok, Setre, we'll try it."

(Now we'll go back to Eleibag for more History. Hopefully that'll please you... *lol*)

          Eleibag watched as Setrelca left the room. He turned over on his back and sighed. Why is love so hard? I don't even know if she loves me back. And if she does, what way? A friend? A companion? Something more? It was easier when she was a child, cause then I was just like her uncle or older brother. But now she's a young woman. What to do?

          He thought about back when she was first born. He remembered how her mother was sitting on her bed. Her father was getting ready by setting up the bed that would hold the little ones.

          He remembered how disappointed her mother was when only 2 children were born. Most Mourian families would consist of at least 6 babies. Even so, Setrelca took it badly as well as her mother when her sibling disappeared at age 3. He remembered how Setrelca had locked herself up for a week, only accepting food every day at exactly 4:00pm. Any time earlier or later, and she'd skip it.

          Eleibag's face seemed to scrunch up as if to cry as he remembered how she looked when she came out. She had a bruise on her forehead from thumping her head on the wall, and cuts on her arms from scratching at them. She came out of her room and had collapsed.

          She woke up many hours later and had looked up at him. He still remembered her first words before falling asleep. "He came to me during that week, he talked to me. Telling me about his dream to become a famous scientist and live a long life. He saw the bruise and cuts and told me to live. To take over his dream, but make it better than he imagined. Will you help me, big cat?"

          Eleibag sat up and smiled. He remembered telling her he would, and he loved how her eyes seemed to sparkle. He loved making her happy. But didn't you go against that by taking her from the Muhan's world? NO! Shut up! She could not have been happy there. Did you enjoy telling her that she wasn't what she thought she was? No, but I couldn't let her suffer there. Suffer? When she was happy? How thoughtless of you. Eleibag went over to the mirror and looked into it.

          "How... Thoughtless...?" He sighed and banged his head against it. He often had conversations like this, only instead of himself putting himself down, it was Setrelca laughing along with him. Lately, since her return, it was more than laughter from his jokes.

          "I have to talk to her. I have to know if she's happy." He walked over to the window and looked out. He saw her by the waterfall talking to Ele. There she is. Now all I have to do is... Just then Setrelca leaned over and gave Ele a hug and what looked like a kiss on his cheek. What? No! She... But she... I told you, she's not happy, at least with you. It can't be. There has to be a good reason. I'm going to talk to her. Now.

          He turned and stomped out of the room.

(There... Happy??? Now you know more. And more will come everytime it's necessary. Also, small note. The names are shortened in this story a lot to go with how people really talk. So one thing that may confuse you is Ele and Eleibag. The short for Eleibag is El. But Ele is Ele. Ok. More later on. O^_^O)

          Setrelca laughed at Ele. He did another backflip and landed on his tail. She clapped and smiled.

          "You're very talented. I never knew that you could do that with you're tail."

          He sat down next to her again and looked at her. "It took me a while to be able to do that. But yeah, I can."

          She nodded and giggled. Then she stopped and looked worried. "Oh! I have to get back and apologize to Eleibag!" She leaned over and gave him a hug then whispered in his ear. "Make sure the plan goes perfectly tomorrow at 3:00pm sharp."

          He nodded and she got up and started back for the lab.

          On her way back, she saw Eleibag coming out of the lab and towards her. She smiled. "Hi Eleibag! I have great news!"

          "Oh? What's that?" He asked, all anger forgotten for the moment.

          "Ele and I figured out a way to get Ninefer off your back! I'm so happy I talked to him, and I bet you're happy... too...?" She asked and saw his face twist up. "Something wrong? Oh, My! You didn't want Nin to leave you alone? I can run and tell Ele before..." He cut her off.

          "No! It's not that. I saw you and Ele talking. I didn't know what was going on. Now I do. It's just... surprising."

          Setrelca sighed relief. "That's good. I thought I made a huge mistake."

          Eleibag smiled. "Nope. But, I would like to talk to you about a few things. Wanna go back to the lab?"

          "I guess..." She answered and followed after him.

          Setrelca shook her head and laughed. "No Eleibag. I'm not unhappy. Even if you left me on Centaire I would not be unhappy, for I would not have remembered here. Ok?"

          He sighed and nodded. If only it was that easy.

          Setrelca looked around the portal room and most specifically at the large portal through which she first travelled. She sighed and walked over to it. It was about 10 feet in Diameter, and glowed a light blue. She typed in the co-ordinates to Centaire and looked through.

          She saw her house there, and inside was Dralil. She was about to step through, just to surprise him and say "Hey look! I'm really a Mouse!" when she saw her best friend step out of her room. The portal shimmered some and Setrelca realized she could actually hear their words. She listened for a few moments.

  "I can't believe she just left like that. Can you?" Serima said.

   "I can, the tramp wasn't as fun as you anyway." Dralil said grabbing Serima and holding her close.

   "Still, she might have found out how you were with me and committed suicide. Don't you care that she might be dead?" She said trying to get free.

   "So what. If she killed herself over that, she's not worth me." Dralil said bringing her in for a kiss.

   "Dralil! What an awful thing to say! She's my best friend and YOUR girlfriend. You should at least care what became of her." She struggled and finally got free. She ran to the door and pulled it open. She looked back at him. "Jerk."

   He shook his head and watched her run to her car and pull away. "She was good, for a while. Setrelca wasn't fun at all. So why should I care?" He slammed the door and walked to the bedroom.

          Setrelca shut off the portal and sat down. She scrunched up, put her arms on her knees and cried.

          Eleibag walked into the portal room about an hour later and saw Setrelca sitting down with her head in her paws crying. He was beside her in a bound. "What's wrong?"

          She looked up at him. "Oh, I'm sorry... I was looking through the portal at Centaire and saw my old boyfriend. He said something really mean about me to my friend. And I found out that they were both cheating on me. I can't believe it, my Best friend and my Boyfriend." She put her head back down and sobbed again.

          Eleibag just hugged her. They stayed that way for a short while, but were interrupted by someone clearing their throat at the door. They both looked up. A short Mourian stood there. She had a Green nose and black hair with Light Blue streaks.

          She smiled at Setrelca. "You know cuz, I don't ever believe I've seen you with anyone but El there." She smiled again and laughed.

          Setrelca jumped to her feet and ran over to her little cousin. "Eidhi! How have you been? Still chasing the guys?"

          Eidhi laughed. "Nah. I came here to live with you for a while. If you can put me up?" She looked at Setrelca with her puppy-dog eyes.

          Setrelca patted her on the back. "Stop with the look. We have room for you. We always do."

          She laughed and walked off with Eidhi, showing her to her room. Eleibag just scratched his head. Eidhi doesn't have to see her cousin sad, I know that. But it's still amazing how fast she changed emotions.

          Eidhi set her bags down on the floor and looked around. "So. This'll be my room eh?"

          "You don't like? I can give you another?"

          "No, it's fine. I was just asking. Same as this question. What happened to you?"

          Setrelca looked at herself then realized what she meant. "OH! You mean, oh, yeah. Well. It's like this. Remember how I am the Lead Scientist for the Portal Project? Yes, good. Well, I went through the portal and stayed there for 10 years. Apparently, age stays with you no matter where you are. So 3 months passed here, but I went through 10 years. Now I'm 17 years old."

          "Ah. Ok. Cool. So now you're like my OLDER cousin. Instead of the other way around?"

          "Yep. So it seems." She smiled and they laughed.

          Eleibag looked up and saw Ele in the doorway. Ele smiled and walked over to him.

          "What's happening around here? Hmmm? I saw someone new coming in here just before me."

          Eleibag nodded. "That's Setrelca's cousin, Eidhi. She's here for a short while. Come here for a few minutes, I wanna show you an experiment I've been working on."

          Ele smiled and followed his friend. Little known to them a small mouse watched from the doorway. She was not there when they left the room, and didn't even notice her following them to Eleibag's personal Lab.

          Eidhi followed closely behind Eleibag and his cute new Skuril friend. She watched as his tail bounced along behind. She sighed softly, but no one heard. They got to the Lab and Eleibag showed him the experiment.

          She leaned out just a bit too far and fell. She stood up quickly and saw them looking at her. She smiled cutely and looked at the Skuril.

          Eleibag heard a clunk and turned to look. He laughed when he saw Eidhi there. She was smiling at Ele, so he decided he should introduce them.

          "Eidhi, this is my friend Ele. Ele, this is Setrelca's cousin, Eidhi."

          Eidhi slid over next to him and put her arm around his waist. "Hiya. Pleased to meet you." She winked at him then turned to Eleibag. "Setrelca is looking for you. She sent me this way to find you."

          "Really? Well, I better see what she wants." He started out of the room. "You two be careful in here. Some of those chemicals can hurt."

          Eidhi and Ele nodded and Eleibag hurried from the room. He was about 10 steps away when he remembered something. He headed back but stopped when he saw Eidhi holding Ele, and his tail around her.

          Oh well, I'll tell him later. They look really cute together.

          Eleibag saw Setrelca sitting on her bed reading a book. She looked up when he came in.

          "Hi Set. You wanted me for something?"

          She looked at him and narrowed her eyes. "No... I don't remember sending for you."

          "But Eidhi said... OH! She just wanted to be alone with Ele." He smiled, then he saw Setrelca's look.

          "You left Eidhi alone? With a guy? Oh my..."

          "How old is she?"

          "She's just... wait. She's old enough. What am I thinking?" She shook her head and sighed. "I guess I was thinking of my cousin from Centaire."

          Eleibag smiled. "She'll probably be ok. So don't worry." He went over and hugged her. She rolled in his arms and hugged him back.

          "Thanks El, I know she'll be fine."

(Now here's a surprise... Not really, but I still say it. We're going into another Past with Eleibag. Here goes.)

          Eleibag sat back and watched as Setrelca left the room in search of her cousin. He sighed and started thinking. It's so odd, seeing her like this. It's as if she's accepted that her life on Centaire and her life here are one and the same. She speaks of her "past" as if it's been more than 3 months. But to her, it has been.

          My past isn't anything to brag about. Mostly my family's history is the fault of that. I'm just lucky no one has guessed why I am so short. Even being an Adult Turgrian, I'm short.

          It's Grandma's fault. She should've known he was a Carlian. Just because he was Persian, doesn't mean that he's not gotten his stripes yet. How embarrassing would it be if people knew that a Turgrian and a Carlian got together and forced the rest of the Turgrians in that family to be short?

          I guess I'll never know. Besides, Grandpa is pretty cool for a.... hmm, what do the Muhan's call them? Ah yes, a Cat. He's pretty cool for a Cat. It's not his fault. Then Eleibag thought of Setrelca. Yeah, not their fault. Love is for anyone and everyone. And race doesn't matter.

(haha. Now for those who were wondering about his height, you know! Now Back to Setrelca.)

          Setrelca walked from the hall to the bedrooms into the gym. In the center of the gym, she saw a Turgrian standing there. She looked like she was uncomfortable being there, but she saw Setrelca and smiled.

          Setrelca walked over to her. "Hi, may I help you?"

          "Yes. My name is Damnaa. I would like to know if there is someone here that I'd talk to for a job?"

          "Yep, me. I'm Setrelca. Owner of Drak Labs. We can probably find you some work. Here, let me show you to your room." Setrelca smiled and picked up one of the bags. Damnaa followed her back the way Setrelca came.

          She looked all around. "Just how big is this place?"

          "Kinda big. After being here for a while, it seems small. *giggle* But that's the problem when it's built for Turgrians I guess."

          "Oh? I'm not the only Turgrian here?"

          "No. There is two others who work here. Eleibag, he's my assistant. And Ninefer. She works as a messenger and go-between for projects. Then of course, there is little Quinomide who comes around every once in a while. But she only works on things when she's bored. So I don't really count her." They both laughed and continued on.

Setrelca looked at Damnaa. "If I may ask, why do you want to work here?"

          "I got a good mark in Science, and found that I can do it easily. I'm hoping that I can become as well-known as you. You're my idol."

          Setrelca smiled. "Thanks, but I think there are many other great Scientists. Most of which are better than I. But if you're as good as you say in Sciences, we'll start you in working under Lilak. She'll teach you all you'll need to know."

          "Ok. Who is this Lilak?" Damnaa asked as she continued walking with Setrelca.

          Setrelca stopped in front of a door. "Lilak's Room is right there. This will be you're room. My room is down at the end of the hall, past the fountain." Setrelca said pointing to each place.

          Damnaa nodded and saw there were names on the doors. She walked along until she saw Ninefer J. "Nin is here?"

          "You know her?" Setrelca said opening Damnaa's door. Damnaa walked back over and into the room.

          "We were old school mates. She was always after a certain guy. His name was..."

          Ninefer came out of her room and shouted. "Eleibag! I have to talk to you! You still have my..." She then noticed Setrelca and Damnaa. "Hi Set. Hello Damnaa. It's been a while, hasn't it?"

          "Yes, Yes it has."

          Setrelca just shook her head. "You two can get together later and find out what all has happened. I have something to work on, and places to show Damnaa. Eleibag is somewhere. Maybe you should go to the gym and shout, less area's to dampen the sound, and more room to echo it throughout the place."

          Ninefer nodded. "True. Later Damnaa."

          "Later Nin."

          Ninefer growled slightly as she went past them towards the gym. Setrelca shook her head again.

          "She's still after him?"

          "Yep. And he works here."

          Damnaa just nodded and started unpacking.

(Now you're all wondering. What happened with Eidhi and Ele? Well... I should make you wait. And I'm going to do that. Make you wait... Muahahaha. No, it's because I HAVE to get back to Eleibag. So much past, so little time. Wouldn't you like to know why Setrelca and him are together? hmmm? hmmmm? Well, here's why.)

          Eleibag walked out to the gym following the shouts of Ninefer. He saw her there staring at him and he walked over.

          "Whatcha want, Nin?"

          "I want my fur-itioner back. You borrowed it and never returned it."

          "I gave it back. You then gave it to Yerffej. So don't blame me for your faulty memory."

          "Faulty? What about you shorty!? You're careless to a Fault! You can't even see that we're both Turgrians. We're MEANT to be together."

          "And I tell you everytime. My first priority is..."

          "The Lab! I know, I know! But I think it's just that, that, that Mourian!"

          "Her name is Setrelca, and she's your employer. If you can't be nice to her, you lose your job. So what if I don't want to be with you because of her. It's NONE OF YOUR CONCERN! Get it? Got it? Good!"

          Eleibag then turned and marched away. Ninefer just watched him leave, thinking of another plan. Eleibag walked down the gym and out the front door. He went out to the waterfall.

          Maybe she's right. But she can't be. Setrelca and I promised each other that we'd always be friends. I fell in love with her, like a big brother sorta love. But when I saw how well she grew... It all changed. She changed, and it's not her fault if I love that. She's not the child she was before, but she hasn't been like a child since her brother died. No one has been able to understand the change. But maybe... Yes, I can go talk to her brother. His grave is only a day or two away. Maybe if I go to there, he might "talk" to me like he did with her. That's IF he really did, and it wasn't a dream of hers. I certainly hope not.

          Eleibag smiled at the prospect of an answer at once. He turned and went back into the building to tell Setrelca he'd be gone for a while.

(Now, the story is staring to make sense, eh? Well. Maybe I should do a Past thing with Setrelca now. But I'd have a lot of people after me if I didn't say what Eidhi and Ele have been up to. Right? Fine, here...)

          Ele looked down at the Mourian he held in his arms. She just smiled at him, And he laughed.

          "So. Why do you keep smiling?"

          "I don't know. You're the first Skuril I've had the pleasure of meeting. At least, the first Male Skuril." She smiled at him and he smiled back.

          Ele then felt her running her finger over his chest.

          "Setrelca told me about you. You like to have fun, hmmm?"

          "A lot of the time, yeah."

          "Hmm... so what would ya like to do?"

          Ele ran his paw along her arm. He leaned close to her and whispered in her ear. She giggled then took his paw and led him from the room.

(Now I'm going to be mean and NOT tell you what happens until MUCH later. *Evil Laughter* Anyway, we have to get back to Setrelca. O^_^O)

          Setrelca stood in the gym and waited as everyone got settled. She saw everyone seated then tapped on the podium for their attention.

          "Alright Everyone. I have some important things to say, so if I could have all your attention? Thanks. First, I have looked through the logs and everyone is doing good so far with their work. The portal remains stable, and I have permission from the council to send about 3 more people through.

          Second, Eleibag has informed me of a necessary leave, so I ask that all projects that require his supervision to be transferred to Lilak or Myself. Or they may be put on hold.

          Third, there has been a rumor going around that a bug may be in the computer systems. I don't usually trust rumors, but it's better to be safe than sorry. So I'd like the Technical crew to see to that.

          That's all, is there any..."

          Setrelca suddenly lurched forward, as something hit her right shoulder. Everything spun, and she could see several people stand to help her. She saw Eleibag's lips moving, then all went black.

(Hmmm. I should go back to Ele and Eidhi, they seem so much happier. O^_^O What's that? You wanna know what happened with Setrelca? Ok, I'll tell you................................. LATER! Ha! <Aren't I Sadistic??>)

          Ele walked to the Ruil. Eidhi followed behind. They went over and got two horses and lead them out. Ele got up and turned to Eidhi, who sat in her horses Saddle.

          "The Fair is out at Relinoir, so it'll be about a half days ride. We can stay with my friends there. Ok?"

          "Alright." Eidhi smiled at him and started her horse forward. Ele spurned his horse after.

          Ele reined his horse in, and Eidhi followed suit. They got down and the Murition put the horses in the Ruil. Ele took Eidhi's hand and they set out for the fair.

(Not going to bore you with every little thing they do at the fair, or what they do later at Ele's friend's house. But I will tell you a couple of things. First off, Ele lied, it's really HIS house, so no one's home. Due to the fact that some young people may read this, I will not put what happens here. But I will type it up separately, and people can e-mail me for it. Next, a Murition is a Mink. Now, we should go back to Eleibag. Cause Setrelca's in no condition to say anything.)

          Eleibag leaned down next to Setrelca and lifted her shoulders. His left hand felt moisture from her right shoulder. He took his hand away and saw blood. He lifted her up to look behind and could see a small round hole.

          "Someone! Get the doctor! Quick!"

          Eleibag looked around the room and saw something move along the rafters and disappear. He growled lightly, but everyone around him took a step back. Whoever you are, you better hope she's alright. He thought to himself.

          A Skuril in a white coat came in and knelt beside them. He took one look at the hole and looked up at Eleibag.

          "Please bring her to the Infirmary. I cannot work on her wound here."

          Eleibag only nodded and picked Setrelca up. He then followed the doctor to the Infirmary.

(Anyone guess what happened? Yep, I was mean to my character, and shot her. Whether she lives or not is up to me, isn't it? Well, I guess you'll find out. Right? Back to Eleibag.)

          Eleibag paced back and forth. It was almost two hours later and there was still no report on a change of Setrelca's status. He was getting ready to enter the room when the doctor came out. His face didn't seem good.

          "She didn't..."

          "No, but it's not good. She's infected with a class B Poison. It's slow acting. But the only known cure for it is found at Mt-Intrudo. A single berry from the Li-lia-Liak Plant is needed. It is then added to the melted water from the snow that forms on the Peak of the Mountain. But no one can travel there. Possibly not in time."

          Eleibag shook his head. "This is not good."

          "No. No it isn't."

          Eleibag paced the floor. He sighed each time before turning to pace back the way he came. I have to save Setrelca, but I can't leave the lab in chaos. Who can I send to get the berries and snow?

          The door opened, and in stepped Ele and Eidhi. They were laughing, and smiling at each other. Then they noticed Eleibag, and how he looked.

          "Something's wrong, Isn't there El?"

          Eleibag nodded and when he looked up at them again his eyes were glistening. Eidhi went over and pulled him over to where he could sit down. Ele followed behind and sat on the floor next to them. Eleibag calmed down then told them what happened.

          "...and now they tell me she's poisoned. She has about 3 weeks to live, if she doesn't do too much. But I can't travel to Mt-Intrudo, for the Li-Lia-Liak Berries and Melted Snow. I have to stay here and make sure everything is alright."

          Eidhi looked at Ele and he nodded. "We can go for you El. She's my friend and Eidhi's cousin. We have to try."

          Eleibag looked at his friend and let his eyes show how he felt. Ele smiled and left the room to go get ready. Eidhi looked at Eleibag, she gave him a small hug then started for the door.

          "I won't let my cousin die, not without trying. We'll be back before you know it." She then left the room.

          Eleibag looked at the floor and sighed. "I hope you do, I hope you... do."

          Ele strapped the bag to the horse and felt two arms go around his waist. He then felt a kiss on his back. Eidhi slid around to face him.

          "This is really nice of you. Thanks."

          "Thanks? For what?"

          "For helping my cousin."

          "No problem Eid. Set is my friend now. El has been my friend for a long time. So I owe them something."

          Eidhi smiled and giggled. "Still, thanks."

          Ele hugged her close and kissed her forehead. "Your Welcome."

          They broke up and finished getting ready for the week long trip. One week out, a week there and one week back, is their plan. Ele looked over at Eidhi and sighed. I hope all goes well. Our time runs thin with each inconvience.

(Ok. Small thing here, taking bets.... who thinks they'll get there and back in time? Just joking. You know they have to. Or maybe they won't. Hmmm.... Confused yet? No? Darn. Not trying enough. Of course I could have Ele and Eidhi die on the trail, leaving Eleibag thinking they are coming back. Well, you'll see won't you? Or maybe you won't? Who to go back to, I guess Eleibag. O^_^O Here we go!)

          Eleibag walked into the hospital room where Setrelca lay in Stasis. He went over to her and leaned on the glass. She looked like death laying there, but he knew it wasn't so. Hang on Setrelca. You can't die, not like your brother. Please live, if not for me, for yourself. I would have rather been hit by that bullet. But I promise, if you don't make it, I WILL avenge your death. Don't die, Please. Please, Please....

          He then put his head down in his arms. Outside the room looking in was a small green eye, not noticed by anyone. A noise sounded from down the hall and the eye disappeared. Eleibag lifted his head and walked out of the room.

(Mysterious, no? Ha, well. On the trail to Mt-Intrudo!)

          Eidhi looked around at the landscape. For the last week, all that was seen was grasslands and the occasional steppes. She sighed and looked at Ele. He seemed to be enjoying the view. He then looked in her direction and caught her gaze. He winked and she laughed.

          "How much longer is it to the mountain, Ele?"

          "Not far as I see."

          "What?"

          "Look, that's the peak rising over the steppes. It should be another 2-3 hours."

          Eidhi smiled, seeming pleased. "I'm glad. As much as I love the wilderness and travelling, I like to have more than a 4 hour break every 16 hours."

          Ele laughed. "So do I. But we have to hurry, we have only 1 and a half to 2 weeks left."

          She nodded and hurried her horse along.

(Now, maybe I should play with your minds some more. *rubs hands together and types*)

          The hospital was silent in the Stasis ward. Outside of Setrelca's room, a small hand pushed open the door ever so quietly. The person stepped in and walked over to Setrelca laying in the Stasis field.

          She smiled, proud of her work. She then heard someone at the door, but didn't turn. A black shape moved into the room and walked towards her. She smiled to herself and quicker than seen, she turned, grabbed her crossbow and had it aimed at the Intruder.

          "Great aim as always, Sister." he was dressed in a black cape, with the hood over his head.

          "Of course. You'd think otherwise? Shame on you, Bro." She shook her head and let her hair fall forward. She then looked back up at her brother. Her crossbow never moved.

          "So, that's Setrelca? Dead is she?" He walked slowly over and looked in. He then looked up and saw his sister's face. "She's NOT dead?! The order was to KILL her!"

          "I didn't want to take the fun out of it. They believe they can get the berries before three weeks are up. I don't think they can, so she's as good as dead." Her green eyes shone in the faint light and she could see her brother's mouth move in what looked like a smile.

          He nodded slowly. "If you think so. You always were the vicious one, wanting your kill to feel it's pain."

          She walked over and gave her brother a hug and kiss. "I also play with my kill at times." She winked and started walking out. She then turned and shot her brother in the shoulder.

          He grabbed it in pain and looked at her. "Dear sister, you better give me the antidote before I kill you."

          She laughed and turned away. Reaching into her shirt, she pulled out a vial and tossed it behind her. He caught it and drank it. She laughed again and walked from the room.

          He glared after her. Then looking down at the arrow, he pulled it out and watched the hole seal over. "Some day sister. You will die, hopefully by my hand. And after I've had MY fun." He leered then walked out after her.

          Setrelca just continued to lay there. On the small screen next to her, another dot appeared, symbolizing another spread of the poison. The counter changed to an estimate of 10days left.

(Lemme guess, you're saying "WHO ARE THEY?" Right? Haha. Not telling. :P )

          Ele sighed. He leaned back and relaxed. They were about 3 hours from the top of the Mountain, and still no sign of the berries. Eidhi walked over and put her paw on his chest. He opened an eye and looked at her.

          "Why don't you tell me what these berries look like? Maybe then, I can check around, while you relax. Then we switch. It might go faster."

          Ele smiled and sat up. "I was thinking of it. Ok then. The berries are found on a silver stem. The leaves are gold. The berries are special. They keep changing colors, going through the colors of a rainbow. Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet. When it turns blue is when it can be picked. Any other time, and it'll be poisonous."

          Eidhi nodded. "OK. I look for a berry that changes through Roy.G.Biv. Then pluck it when blue. Gotcha!"

          She stood and took off. Ele watched her go off to the right some, then layed back down.

          Ele woke to Eidhi shaking him. "Where do we get the water?" She looked really excited. He sat up and looked at her.

          "What..."

          "I found the Berries! Look!"

          He looked down at her hand. She held it out and inside her palm was five little blue berries, and a gold leaf.

          "I got the leaf in case you didn't believe me." She smiled and laughed. She then gave the berries to him, and he put them into a small jar.

          He got up and hugged her. "Keep the leaf. It's a great keepsake."

          They both laughed and he took her hand. They raced up the mountainside. Now they were full of promise and hope of a successful mission.

          Back in the hospital, a body lay still. The computer beeped, and another dot showed on the screen. The doctor looked at it and sighed. He shook his head and hit the estimation. It showed only 6 and a half days left.

          "The poison is spreading faster. They better get back soon."

          He just looked at the Mourian laying there and sighed again.

          Ele and Eidhi rode, pushing their horses to the max. We took too much time there. There's only 3 days left, if that. He looked at Eidhi who just concentrated on the road. Her hair flew with the back-draft, and she looked straightforward.

          He turned his gaze forward again. The horses hooves beat heavily on the dirt road, and time passed.

          Eleibag walked into the Stasis room and looked at Setrelca. Then he looked at the monitor. The time said there was close to 47 hours left. He closed his eyes tight and held back tears. Where are they? I expected them back by now. He looked at the monitor and saw another spot appear. The time changed to say 36 hours.

          "Setrelca, fight it. Please!" He fell to his knees knowing that if Ele and Eidhi didn't get here in the next 12 hours, it would be too late. Never before in his life did Eleibag feel so scared.

          Ele looked at the sun and saw it setting. He judged they had to make it back to the city before Dawn. He looked over at Eidhi.

          "How're you holding up?" He shouted. She looked at him.

          "How much longer until we have no more time?"

          "Until Dawn!"

          "Then I can hold up until Dawn!"

          She didn't say anything more and pushed her horse to go faster. Ele smiled at her determination and spurred his horse after.

          The sun was starting to come up as Ele and Eidhi first saw the waterfall.

          "We're here! Let's get to the infirmary!"

          Eidhi nodded and jumped off her horse as it started to falter. Ele did the same and ran to the infirmary.

          Inside the infirmary, Eleibag looked at the time. It said there was an estimate of 2 minutes left. He hung his head and felt tears on his cheeks. He heard something and looked up. The stasis was starting to wear off and he could see Setrelca's body moving in pain.

          Her eyes opened and she looked at him. She managed a weak smile for him and held her paw out. He took it and looked down at her, trying to force a smile as well.

          "The... door... hurry." She fell limp and Eleibag just opened his eyes wide. He ran to the door and flung it open to see two small figures running towards him.

          One figure waved. "Eleibag!!!!"

          Eleibag laughed nervously. They were here. He bellowed back to them. "Do you have it?!!"

          "YES!"

          Then Eidhi threw something in his direction. Eleibag jumped up and caught the small pouch. Inside he could feel liquid. he ran back to Setrelca and poured it down her throat. He watched the monitor as Ele and Eidhi came running in.

          He saw no response. He closed his eyes, knowing they were too late. Then a beep sounded. He looked again and saw the dots starting to disappear. He rubbed his eyes and looked again. He laughed and turned to face Ele and Eidhi.

          All three of them laughed and hugged. Setrelca opened an eye and looked over. She smiled, but then fatigue lulled her back to sleep.

(You all KNEW she'd live.... Just didn't think I'd cut it that close did ya? And what about those suspicious people. Hmmm... Maybe it's time to go back to Setrelca. A few days later, of course. O^_^O)

          Setrelca woke up in her bed and looked around the room. She smiled and got out of bed. Another day of life is worth the boring look of these walls. Maybe I should have that wall taken out and a huge window put in.

          She laughed quietly and left the room. When she got out to the gym she saw a small figure. The figure walked towards her and she could see it was a Weilian. But this one was familiar.

          "Hello Setrelca Crage Rohn. Remember me?"

          "How could I forget you."

          "Oh come now, all that's in the past. I've come to ask you if I could come to work with you."

          "You were the one who tried to kill me. Weren't you?"

          "That was my last job. I promise. My brother wanted you dead. Now with you living, I must get a normal job, or I am free game for him."

          "I'd have to talk to my partner, Maadna. You remember Eleibag."

          "Yes. Has he forgiven me for that little prank I pulled in school. When he got turned into a fushia Turgrian." She laughed happily.

          Setrelca was careful, but laughed along, remembering that. "Yes, I believe he has."

          Maadna smiled a warm, friendly smile. "I will wait your decision. It's my life you hold in your paws. Please make a good choice."

          Setrelca sighed and nodded. Maadna walked out of the room. She stopped by the doors. "I will return in 2 days for your answer. See you then."

          It took Setrelca a day and a half to finally screw up the courage to talk to Eleibag. She sighed and walked to the portal room where she has last heard he was going to be.

          Setrelca walked into the portal room and saw Eleibag sitting at a table, working on something. She crossed over to him and sat down. He looked up at her and smiled.

          "You want something?"

          Setrelca thought of what to say and finally decided on just telling him straight out. "I have been asked by someone for a job. That is, they want to work here."

          "Ok. You're the boss here. It's your decision."

          "I want this to be your's as well."

          "Any reason?"

          "It's the person who tried to kill me."

          Eleibag jumped to his feet. "WHAT?!?! Are you crazy!?!?!?!"

          Setrelca cowered slightly. "She told me why. Please calm down and I'll explain."

          Eleibag sat back down and relaxed some. "Ok. Tell me. Then I will consider calming down more."

          "Maadna, that's the person. It was her brother that sent her after me. She was in the same school as I, but she was part of the Fighter's Club while I was in the Science Club. Her brother is really the person you're after. So we shouldn't hold anything against Maadna."

          "Ok. She can work here. Under constant surveillance though. Who is her brother?"

          "Maadna's last name is Kype."

          "NESA TRIED TO HAVE YOU KILLED?!?!?!?!!?!?!?!"

          Setrelca cringed and whimpered softly. "Please, El. Calm down."

          "CALM DOWN?!?!?! YOU TELL ME YOUR FIANCE WANTS YOU DEAD AND YOU WANT ME TO CALM DOWN?!?!?!?!?!"

          Setrelca curled up into a ball and Eleibag finally noticed he was scaring her. He relaxed and put a paw on her shoulder. She peeked out from her curled up state.

          "I'm sorry Set. I didn't mean to scare you. It's just... I can't believe that, Nesa, of all people would want you dead."

          "I couldn't either. But Maadna has never lied to me. She likes to tell the truth, it hurts more."

          Eleibag laughed. "Well, at least we can trust her here."

          Setrelca laughed too. They both stopped and could hear someone laughing above them.

          "Yes. That would mean you can trust me." Maadna said. She then came down and stood in front of them.

          "Maadna. We do have doors." Setrelca said while watching Eleibag. He stood and walked over to look down at her. Setrelca winced, hoping he wouldn't hit her. Instead, Eleibag offered his paw.

          "Welcome to the team. Now, I just have a score to settle with your brother."

          Maadna smiled. "My full name, as you may know is Maadna Nyln Kype. And I want by brother dead. He threatened to kill me if Setrelca lived. I made sure that she had a poison that should last long enough to be cured. I know, it came close. But it was long enough. He knows by now that I have double-crossed him, so I need sanctuary. And this is the best I can have. If anyone sees him here, they'd recognize him immediately due to your engagement to him, Set. I just hope he doesn't sneak in through the rafters. He shouldn't, cause he doesn't know the way, but he may try."

          She sat down and sighed. Then she unloaded all her weapons on the table. Everything from Hand-pistols, to Crossbows. An assortment of Knives and Daggers. A Scimitar, and a Hatchet. Then she took out an assortment of vials. "My poisons." She said. The last thing she put down was a small medallion. Setrelca recognized the Fighter's guild symbol on it.

          "So, you made it to the Elite core?"

          "Yep. But now, I hand everything over to you. I just want to have a normal life. And I'm willing to learn sciences if necessary."

          Eleibag looked at her. She noticed his stare and smiled. "What's up big cat?"

          "I always wondered why you looked more like a Weilian than a Chipian."

          She let her gaze fall to the ground. "My brother's mother died. I am his sister only because of our father. My mother is a Weilian." She looked back up at Eleibag. "But, I'm not the only cross-breed here. You're too small for a full grown Turgrian. Why's that?"

          Eleibag's eyes opened wide. "I... Well, I..." He looked at Setrelca. She nodded and went to the door. No one was outside.

          "It's clear El. No one but us shall know."

          "Good. Please, keep this secret. But my grandfather is a Carlian. They got together when Grandma was young. She didn't know he was different, he had stripes like us. He.... I just don't know."

          Maadna smiled. "Don't worry. I won't tell. My brother and you two are the only one's who know why I am like this. You won't tell, I won't. Deal?"

          "Deal." Setrelca and Eleibag said together.

Setrelca was in her room when a knock came from the door. She looked up and saw a Chipian there. He smiled at her and walked into the room.

          "Hello Set. How's my wife to be?"

          "Hello Nesa. And I won't be your wife." She answered bitterly.

          Nesa shook his head and sighed. He then walked over and sat beside her. He put and arm around her shoulders and drew her close. She didn't resist for the time being.

          "Why resist me Setrelca? Haven't I been nice? Haven't I been there for you? What do you see in Eleibag, that you cannot see in me?"

          "Easy. He hasn't tried to kill me."

          "Ah, my sister has talked to you. I knew she would, she's always been more weasel than chipmunk. Where is she? I'd like to have a little chat."

          "Where you can't find her. And I won't tell."

          "Really now? I know how to make you talk." She felt his paw on her back. She took a sharp intake of breath.

          "I'll scream if you try anything." She said cautiously. "I'm not afraid of death, thanks to you."

          He glared at her. "Fine. I'll find her myself."

          "You kill anyone on my property, and I'll come for you myself."

          Nesa looked at her and saw she wasn't lying. He stood up and winked at her. "I'll look forward to it."

          He then turned and walked out of the room. Setrelca put her head in her paws and cried.

(Hmm... Now what to do. Seems like We've left a few character's out for a while. And what's happened with Ninefer and her old friend? Well. Here's a switch, let's go to Ninefer.)

          Ninefer sat in her room. Her tail twitched back and forth as she looked at a lone picture on the wall. It was a picture of her and Eleibag when they went to Ele's fair. Setrelca was also in the picture, but she had cut her out.

          "What is it in that Mourian that he wants? Aren't I good enough for him?!" She said to herself. Then a knock sounded at the door. She wasn't in a good mood, but if it was Setrelca, she could lose her job for saying 'Get Lost'.

          "Come in." She said with a sigh. Setrelca wasn't at the door, but someone else was. A small Carlian entered. He saw Nin and smiled.

          "Hi Babe. How's things been? I see you're looking your best as always."

          She jumped up and ran to give him a hug. He took a step forward and hugged her back. "Oh Ulke. Still the Ladies-Cat I see."

          Both laughed, then Nin pulled back slightly. "Why're you here Ulke?"

          "I wanted to see my favorate Turgrian and maybe take her out for a night on the town." He winked at her and she smiled.

          "I believe I have time to do that. How long are you in town?"

          "I'm here for as long as I want to be. I just moved in a week ago. I live down in the circuit."

          "Really?! Oh wow!" Ninefer hugged him close and he gave her a kiss on her neck. She giggled softly. "Let's go, Hun."

          "After you, I love to watch you walk."

          She giggled to and took his paw as they walked out of her room.

(Ah... The sweet smell of Love. LOL. Back to Eleibag.)

          Eleibag sat in the Barracks. Maadna was over at the side, training with the guards. They were teaching her how to use the C-kp32's. A new Robotic suit designed by a couple of Engineerers working at the Lab.

          She walked over to Eleibag. "This suit is neat. If my brother comes, I could use it. And it wouldn't kill him unless I wanted to. But I wouldn't. I'd rather have him locked up. He's crazy."

          Eleibag nodded. "I remember him. It was the dance when he first met Setrelca. I didn't realize then that he'd want her for him alone and would stop at nothing to make sure she was. If I knew, I would never have introduced them."

          Maadna hung her head, then looked up at him again. "No one could've. But now, I'm probably the only person that can save Setrelca. So I have to live." She unstrapped herself and jumped down to the ground beside him. "I just wonder where he'll strike first."

          Eleibag and Maadna both fell to silence. Then both of them jumped up. "Setrelca!"

(Well. I think it's time we have a flash back with Setrelca. This will explain a bit more on our enemy.)

          Setrelca lifted her head and sighed. When did you change like this Nesa? You were such a nice person when we met. Her thoughts recalled a time close to 3 years ago when she first met him...

          Setrelca looked around the ballroom. She saw Furils of all shapes and sizes. She looked up at Eleibag who held her hand. He saw her and winked. This always caused her to giggle. Then Eleibag started forward. She followed meekly and saw him heading towards what looked to be a Chipian.

          The Chipian smiled at her and Eleibag, then he walked over to her. He and Eleibag shook hands, and Eleibag then brought Setrelca forward. She smiled cutely at him and extended her hand. The Chipian took it and kissed it gently. He looked up at her.

          "My name is Nesa Mathos Kype. My sister is Maadna Nyln Kype. I believe you know her. She's in the fighter's guild at school."

          "Yes. I know Maa. She's a bit... odd at times."

          "My sister has always been that way. Don't worry though." He looked up at Eleibag. "You wished me to meet her, you said you'd tell me why when I did."

          Eleibag nodded once. "She's Setrelca Crage Rohn, of the Fir-mast Clan. Daughter of Denyam the third. King of The West cities."

          Nesa snapped his head to look at her. He smiled gently. "I have to go for now. But I will come by and see you sometime. You are at the DML, right?"

          "Yes, later Nesa."

          Eleibag looked down at her and smiled. She would have been happy, but his smile seemed sad. "El, what's wrong?"

          "It's nothing Set. Lets go home."

          "Ok, Elabig."

          He laughed. "It's Eleibag, Set."

          "Oops. Sorry. I try." She hung her head and held back her tears. He reached down and picked her up. She gave him a hug and he laughed again.

          "It's alright Setrelca. I could never stay mad at you."

          She smiled at those thoughts. Eleibag was always there for me. I loved him then, I still do now. Only, it's a different kind. Since I saw him on Centaire. I just had a feeling about him, I thought it was mystery, but it was love. Oh well.

          She stood and walked out of the room. Walking down the hall, she thought for a bit then nodded. She then headed out towards the waterfall.

(Wow. So many people, so little time. Who to go to next? How about someone totally new? That seems great. But I'm not going to. I'm going to Ele.)

          Ele paced the gym. He sighed, remembering his time with Eidhi in the last month and a half. She seems so different then other people, somehow. And I've been with many females. What makes her so different? Is it because of her behaviour? Her personality?

          "What is it!?"

          "What's what Ele?"

          He turned around and saw a Mourian there. But it wasn't Eidhi, it was Setrelca.

          "Uh, nothing. Hi Set. Whatcha doing out here?"

          She walked over to him and tilted her head slightly. "You seem troubled. Is there something wrong between Eidhi and you?"

          "No, maybe, yes, I dunno. There's just something, but I just don't know."

          Setrelca nodded. "I think I have an idea. You seem as confused about her as I am about El. Come on. I think we need to get out for a while. Wanna show me where you jump off that waterfall?"

          Ele looked at her and smiled. "Sure."

          He walked out of the lab and out to the waterfall. Setrelca walked along beside him. In the moonlight, she looked similar to Eidhi, but he knew better. He went around to the right side. He looked back at Setrelca and could see her eyes.

          "This is the path. I have to take your paw, otherwise, you might fall off."

          "Ok." She held out her paw and he took it. He then started up the hill. She kept up to him, and he was surprised that she seemed to almost walk beside him.

          They reached the top and he looked at her. He then did a double take.

          "How come you're so tall?"

          Her head snapped down to look at herself and she saw he was right. "Oops. I was supposed to change back. It's a Mourian trait, we change size."

          She shrunk and he nodded. "Wow."

          They then turned and jumped off the waterfall.

          "Ahhhhhh!" He heard Setrelca shouting behind him. She soon was floating beside him in the air. "Wow! This is so exciting!"

          "Wait til you hit the..." He didn't get to finish what he was saying because he hit the water. They both came back up to the surface and he looked at her. "...Water."

          Setrelca giggled. "Really?" She looked up at the sky and sighed. "The stars are really pretty tonight."

          "Yeah, they are. I think we should go back now. I told Eidhi I'd only be out for a few minutes."

          "Can't keep her waiting. Can you?" She said with a teasing smile. He laughed. Then they both got out and went inside.

(Ok... I know most of you are expecting 30 pages, but I've changed my mind. I'm only doing 20. So this is the last page of Book 1. This one is longer. Sorry, but I want to do more on End Game. And I can't do that unless I'm not preoccupied with LFDM. Lets go back to Eleibag.)

          Eleibag charged into the back door of the complex. He went to his and Setrelca's room. Seeing no one there, he ran to the Portal Room. Little did he notice the little Werlian that managed to keep up. He got there and saw no one.

          "Where is she?!"

          "Where's who?" He heard coming from behind. Both Maadna and him turned to see Eidhi.

          "Setrelca. Have you seen her?"

          Eidhi shook her head. "No. I'm out looking for Ele right now. He said he'd be back in a few moments. It's been almost an hour."

          "Maybe they're both someplace together." Eleibag said. He then heard laughing coming from the gym.

          All three of them ran for the source and saw Ele and Setrelca coming in laughing. Eleibag ran over and hugged Setrelca while Eidhi did the same to Ele.

          Setrelca looked surprised. "Wow, I go jump off a waterfall and people act as if they haven't seen me in years." She laughed and Eleibag pulled back.

          "You were at the waterfall? Phew. I thought, well, Maadna and I thought that Nesa may have come after you."

          She looked a bit sad. "He did. But he left. I'm alright."

          Eleibag looked at her and sighed. He then turned to Maadna. "That means that she's safe."

          "We're all safe as long as we never leave the lab's grounds." Setrelca said calmly. "But I think it'd be better if we got him first. I don't want to be stuck on this small area forever."

          Maadna nodded. "But how are we gonna do that?"

          Ele looked at Setrelca and nodded. "She's thinking of using a trap. Right Set?"

          "Exactly. There's two people here that he wants. One dead, one yiffed. So what we have to do, is make sure the bait doesn't become baited by their own trap. Think we can do it, Maa?"

          Maadna smiled. "Of course. Let's get started."

          Eleibag looked a bit sad. Setrelca noticed. "What is it El?"

          "I just don't want either of you hurt."

          Setrelca and Maadna laughed. "We don't wanna get hurt either."

(Hmm.. we should get back to Ninefer and Ulke. It's been a short while now.. LOL)

          Ninefer leaned back and layed her head on Ulke's lap. She then looked up at him and he smiled. "You know, I just love the way your body moves. It seems like liquid moving."

          Ninefer blushed slightly at the compliment. "Of course, all cat-races do. We just move a bit better than normal cats."

          Ulke laughed. "Too true. Too true."

          She slid her paw along the inside of his leg and he closed his eyes slightly. She then reached up and pulled his head down to hers. "Wanna go to your room?"

          He put his paw on hers and nodded. She sat up and let him tow her to his room.

(Now, because of Geocities Policy, I cannot write what happens next. Again. But I will write it separately, and you can e-mail me for it. Just ask for "N&UBedroom". Ok. Back to Ele.)

          Ele held Eidhi delightfully close. He could feel her hands on his back. He looked down at her and kissed her. He felt her kiss him back. They then parted and looked at Setrelca. Eidhi looked a bit sad then walked over to her cousin.

          "Be careful Set. I couldn't lose you anymore than I could lose Ele."

          Setrelca hugged her cousin. "I will be careful. Now get to your room."

          "Alright. See ya later, Ele." She then turned and went to her room.

          Ele looked at the group. "This is gonna be tough people. But we can do it. We have a few objectives. One, get Nesa. Two, keep Maadna and Setrelca alive and well. Three, make sure it all works." He sighed and looked at the faces around him.

          "We are only gonna capture Nesa. We don't wanna kill him. That's why Maa has given us tranquillizers. Are you ready?" She looked at Eleibag with her last question.

          "Yes. Let's do it."

(Ok. I don't like to skip time too much, but this is a week later. Also, Setrelca will have a better view-point.)

          Setrelca looked around the gym. Since being shot there, she was very cautious about the area. The beams reminded her of how Maadna had come in and gotten her. But now, they were expecting Nesa to use the same way.

          She looked to her left and saw Maadna sitting there, reading. "So... Maa. Whatcha reading?"

          "I'm reading the 'Art of Death.' Same one I've told you the last 20 times you asked." She sighed and put the book down. "Are you a bit scared or something?"

          "No. Just anxious to get this over with. It's been a week. I'm starting to wonder if we should just all go back to doing whatever, but keep the tranquillizers on us, just in case."

          "Hmm... that might be a good idea. But I think that we should all have someone that we stick with at all times." Maadna said. She looked up at Setrelca.

          Setrelca nodded. She then called out loud enough to be heard through the complex. "All people, please report to the gym now! I repeat, all people, please report to the gym now!"

          A few minutes later, everyone was assembled. She looked out to everyone.

          "As you know, my life was close to forfeit as of recently. But we have an idea." She glanced at Eleibag, who in turn glanced at Maadna. Maadna whispered something to him, and Eleibag looked back at Setrelca. He shook his head to state that Nesa wasn't anywhere around. "Ok. I want everyone to have a partner. We have reason to believe that my assassin may come after any of you. So if we stay in pairs, and each person has a tranquillizer we should all be fine. This is not the worst to happen to us in this lab, and I hope all of you will agree. Any disagreements, please speak now." No one spoke up. She smiled and started to put her plan into action.

          Maybe just once, I can be on the winning side of something. She looked at Eleibag, who was to be her partner through this. "Well. Lets go. I'm tired, and I want to rest."

          Eleibag took her paw and walked to their room.

(Well... that's the end of book one. Later!)