Page 111 of Alien Warlord's Fury

"Impressive control," Nirako said, crouching.

Meela beamed. "Elder Kavan says I might be ready for advanced patterns."

"I'm not surprised," I said, brushing her hair back. The haunted look was gone. "You're a quick learner."

"Like you," she said conspiratorially. "Selene says I have Guardian potential."

Nirako and I exchanged glances. The rescued children had developed unique connections to the Nexus.

"That's a big responsibility," I said.

She nodded solemnly. "I want to help. Like you helped me." My throat tightened. Her friends called, and she darted off.

"She's doing well," Nirako said.

"They all are," I agreed.

Mirelle waved us over. Her silver markings complemented the swell of her pregnant belly. Lazrin stood beside her, hand resting protectively on her back. "There you are," Mirelle said. "The Shadow Canyon representatives brought something for you."

She gestured to a small wooden box. Inside lay a pendant—clear crystal shot through with threads of silver and gold. "It's beautiful," I breathed.

"From the deepest part of the canyon," Mirelle explained. "Where Nexus energy runs closest."

Nirako took it and fastened it around my neck. His fingers brushed my skin, our bond rippling. "It suits you," he murmured. The crystal settled warmly against my chest, my markings responding.

Rivera approached, arm linked with Jen's. Both wore formal Eastern attire. Rivera's markings complemented Jen's lifelines. "Admiring your gift?" Rivera asked. "The Shadow Canyon craftsman worked for weeks."

"It's incredible," I said.

"You can thank them yourself," Jen replied. "They're staying for the full moon cycle."

Nirako's hand settled at my back. "A sign of growing trust."

"One of many," Rivera agreed. "The joint monitoring teams function well."

"Speaking of which," Jen added, "latest Nexus readings are stable."

I smiled. "The children helped."

"Don't diminish your role," Nirako said quietly.

A bell signaled the start of the ceremony. We took our places. Ravik stood for the Shadow Clan, Zara beside him looking relaxed. Lazrin and Mirelle represented the Eastern Settlement; Selene and Kavan, the humans. I stood with Nirako for the Guardians and monitoring teams.

Varek stepped forward. "One year ago, we faced a threat. Hammond sought to corrupt the Nexus." A murmur ran through the crowd.

"From darkness came light," Mirelle continued, hand on her belly. "Our strength lies in unity. Human and Nyxari, Eastern, Aerie, and Shadow—stronger together."

Nirako spoke next. "The Aerie teaches a storm reveals the mountain's strength. This year tested us. We stood firm."

"The Shadow Canyon kept to itself," Ravik added. "But isolation breeds fear. In opening borders, we found strength."

Nirako squeezed my hand. My turn. I stepped forward, the pendant pulsing softly. "A year ago, I was broken," I began. "Hammond's experiments left me with uncontrolled visions and pain. I wanted vengeance." I looked around the circle—Nirako, Mirelle, Ravik, the children. "What I found was connection. To the Nexus, yes, but more importantly, to all of you. The children Hammond tortured now learn to use their gifts. The Nexus he corrupted helps us understand this planet. The divisions he exploited are replaced by bridges." My markings responded.The rescued children paused their play, their markings glowing. "We've lost much," I acknowledged. "But what we've built honors their memory."

I stepped back, and Nirako stood beside me, lifelines bright. "The Aerie has a saying," he began, and I bit back a smile. "The strongest roots grow in broken ground." His eyes found mine. "This settlement—this alliance—took root in broken soil. Yet look what has grown." He gestured to the gathering—humans and Nyxari sharing food, children playing, mingled silver and gold light. "This is just the beginning."

The formal speeches gave way to music, a blend of human and Nyxari instruments. Tables were laden with food. Nirako led me away toward a quieter spot beneath a flowering tree, its pale blue blossoms releasing a sweet scent. His tail gave a slow, contented sweep.

"You spoke well," he said, thumb brushing my cheekbone.

---