The Enemy Part2 By valerafon An earth man and an alien woman battle on a distant world. This work of fiction should not be read by anyone under the age of 18. Please do not read further if you are offended by graphic violence and sexual content. Chapter two The Federation's Man He propped his feet up on the table, and sipped his drink with a straw. He half dozed as the cool ocean breeze made the midmorning sun bearable. From time to time he would look down at the coconut to make sure it still held some liqueur. He had more than enough credits to keep himself occupied and happy for the foreseeable future. This was the life he dreamt about. When he was in one of his life and death situations, on one of his ill fated jobs, he would often think of Fiji. It was his special place. He would think of the palm trees and native women, and it would give him the edge he needed to find a way to survive. He was here, and know his dream was finally coming true. He wasn't going anywhere for a very long time. The world could take care of itself for awhile. He was out of circulation for at least a year, and maybe forever. As he dozed, Bannon thought about his last job. Everything had gone perfectly. The kidnappers made so many mistakes it was almost too easy. It was the first time he could ever remember that all the information he was given was correct. He was even able to hand over a couple of the kidnappers to the Turkish authorities. The top executive for United Oil even doubled his fee when he got his daughter back alive. This was the first time he had received all of the credits due him in years. It was a windfall! It was more than he received for all his other jobs combined in the last ten years. The fact that it was the easiest of all of his jobs now brought an ironic smile to his face. Maybe, he mused my luck is finally changing. Bixby, the computer genius, and his one and only friend in the world had even helped him change his identity, and wash the credits he received. Bannon was so happy in paradise that he sent Bix a postcard using his new identity. It was a way to thank his friend other than the credits he gave him. It was a nice gesture he thought to finally remember a friend. Computers may run the world he mused, but they still can be fooled. No one is going to find me here. His thoughts lingered on Bixby a little longer, his one friend. Everybody else he knew and loved was dead. Why am I still alive he wondered? I've used up enough good fortune for a hundred lifetimes. My luck should've played out long ago. Maybe, it's time to retire? Bannon took a sip from his drink, closed his eyes, and thought about the bikini clad beauties on the beach. ------------------------------------------------ Glaxxana entered the great hall with Tiani at her side. The remainder of her surviving warriors followed two abreast behind their leader. The great hall was filled, to capacity, with members of the five ruling clans of Gamula. As the procession filed in, everyone stood in honor of both the living and the dead. The procession stopped at the foot of the great altar before the ruling council of five, and made two columns each facing the other along the isle. Next, came the wooden boxes of the fallen warriors, and they were placed by the temple eunuchs, one after another, in the center of the great aisle. After the last box was gently placed in its location of honor, the eunuchs hastily left the sacred chamber and closed the huge golden doors. Nianna the leader of the five ruling clans, and hence the leader of Gamula and all the hundred conquered worlds, spread her hands out in prayer. The gathering bowed their heads in silence, and said the Cortah.....the prayer of thanks and supplication to the warrior goddess Hiem. After the solemn prayer the great hall erupted in a mighty war cry. Even the ruling caste of five joined in. This was not a day of sadness, but one of great joy and celebration. The fallen warriors were to be given back to Gamula, the sacred mother, and their deaths honored. The warriors who came back alive would receive the sacred and fragrant jasmine wreath as a token of their victory, and would be assured of moving up in the complex hierarchy of their clans. All who fought in the Arena where members of the ruling clans, even though the ruling clans made up only five percent of the population of Gamula. Nianna gestured with her hands for the throng to be quiet, and motioned for Glaxxana to come forward. She was especially proud of this moment for Gaxxana was a member of her clan. She could see a day, in a future time, when Glaxxana might rule the council of five, and thus all of the empire. She had been the first to see the greatness in the child, and acted accordingly. Nianna had made sure Glaxxana was given only the best of instruction. She had been tough and exacting on her young prot‚g‚e from the beginning. Some might even say she had been oppressive and unyielding, but the clay she had molded was turning into a fine young Amazon. Nianna saw her now not only as a trusted ally and a great warrior, but also as a compassionate and thoughtful leader of women. Nianna had a contented smile on her face as she received her prot‚g‚e. This seed she had planted a long time ago was beginning to bear fruit nicely she thought. Glaxxana moved forward and knelt closer in the shadow of the great altar. She bowed her head and waited. The old queen watched the young and vital woman approach with pride. She often called Glaxxana her daughter, and that is exactly how she thought of her. "My daughter, all of the hundred worlds honors you and your brave warriors." An attendant handed the queen the sacred scepter. The queen took it, smiled at her young prot‚g‚e, and began to speak in a loud regal voice, "Accept this scepter as further proof of the high regard your clan, and indeed all of Gamula holds for you." The scepter was acknowledgment of her new status with her clan. She was now a member of the highest order within it, the ruling elite. It was a great honor for one so young Nianna thought, and tangible proof of Glaxxana's metal. Glaxxana accepted the scepter with humility, and knelt again in supplication directly before her queen and mentor. The queen touched her shoulder, bid her to rise, and then continued, "As you know Glaxxana, we have issued a new challenge to the interlopers." Now the queen was talking to everyone as well as Glaxxana and her voice rose another octave. "We have grown impatient with them as we have observed their weaknesses in the Arena. In our sacred writings weakness from warriors is not acceptable. We no longer consider them equals. This makes the compacts with this Federation no longer binding. Thus, we have acted accordingly.....and justly." The crowd murmured its approval of the old queen's statements. Someone in the crowd yelled out, "They will never accept the new challenge. They are weak, and they are cowards." Glaxxana yelled out in reply, "They have never proved themselves to be cowards. They all died in battle as bravely as our warriors." Some in the crowd emitted a clearly audible gasp, and the gathering broke out into a hundred different conversations, but the old queen silenced them with a wave of her hands. "They have already accepted the new challenge...with conditions," she told the gathering. She paused a second, looked around the great hall, and then spoke once again, "They say we have broken with the pact, but will accept our challenge only if it is altered." The queen paused for effect and then continued, "They wish to make the contest one of trial by single combat. In our minds this will not alter the outcome. Trial by combat is our way of life, and we have agreed. The hall was very quiet as all the women pondered the queen's last statements. Then someone else yelled out, "How will our champion be chosen?" Hundreds in one voice yelled, "Send me!.....Send me!.....Send me!" The old queen held out her hands to silence the crowd once more. The crowd was immediately stilled. "One from each clan will be chosen. The five will enter the sacred ring of combat. There they will do battle according to the old ways and customs of our people." The queen turned and gestured with her hand to the immense statue dominating the alter of sacrifice behind her. "In ritual combat, as is our way, our great goddess Heim will choose her champion." All the women cheered. After the cheering died down, the queen added, "Four have already been selected by their clans." She gestured off to the side, and four of Gamula's strongest and bravest warriors entered from a vestibule door. They stared out proudly at the gathered throng, and waved their arms in the air. They gestured triumphantly and confidently to the scattered pockets of their own particular clan. Each clan responded by shouting the name of their champion. The queen let them have their moment before she once more quieted the multitude and spoke once again. "The champion from Defender Clan has not yet been chosen." The queen looked around the great hall, and stopped her gaze at a large group of her own clanswomen. She shouted with youthful vigor to the multitude, "SHE WILL BE NOW!" And the crowd erupted once more. The warriors from Glaxxana's clan were especially boisterous. After the queen had asked for order with her hands out raised once more, she looked at Glaxxana and asked, "Will you represent our clan in the choosing?" Glaxxana looked around the hall, and then at Tiani who was smiling at her as a sister would. She looked back at the leader of the hundred worlds, and she was smiling like a mother would. She bowed her head and said softly, "Yes! My queen." Tiani led the war cry this time.... ------------------------------------ The president paced the room and shook his head nervously as he considered. He ignored his friend for a moment who was sitting calmly in a chair opposite him. Donavan was the only other person in the room. "Bannon!" the president yelled, and then paused in thought and shook his head again. There has to be thousands, maybe millions of selections better than this Bannon character he brooded to himself. The president then looked over at his closest friend in the whole world, stopped his pacing, and considered him for a moment. Maybe, Donavan was his only friend in the world. Leaders couldn't afford the luxury of friends he thought. Maybe, it was time to move his friend out.... He then asked Donavan the question he was afraid to ask. "Why Bannon?" Donavan with carefully chosen words answered his friend. "If he was being chosen for a position on an Arena roster, he would be the worst choice in the world. He can't and won't follow orders." The president gave him a bewildered look. "But he is being chosen for a solitary mission. In that instance, he is the best choice in the world." "Why won't a military man do?" the president asked seriously. "Because, Mr. President, a military man has spent a great part of his life training to die for the Federation, and that is just what he'd do.....Die for the Federation!" The president seemed to absorb the statement, but he said something completely different, "I told you to call me Bill when we're alone." Donavan was momentarily sidetracked, but he acknowledged his friend with a nod and continued. "Above all Bannon is a survivor. A characteristic unsuitable for the military. He is at his best when situations are breaking down all around him. At those times when his life is on the line, he is the calmest. He has survived his missions because he has found unorthodox solutions to his problems. His mind does not think in a structured way. This will be his greatest strength in the ordeal ahead." The president started to pace again, but Donavan could tell he was calmer, and listening intently to his friend. Then the president asked, "We have accepted Gamula's counter offer. How can we trust such a rouge with the fate of twenty five star systems?" "I assure you he is the best choice. Zero, one, or twenty it won't matter to him. He will do what his instincts dictate." "How can you assure me he will complete his mission?" "He won't have a choice Mr. Pres....Bill" Donavan smiled he knew this was the beauty in his plan and then he elaborated. "His instincts will take over, and he will automatically choose life. He won't have a conscience choice. He will act as he did on Nixon the prison planet. Or on Mars during the riots of New Eden." The president had one final concern. "How will we find him? I am told he has vanished without a trace. Who will convince him, and then prepare him?" The president asked him a number of questions all at once, but Donavan knew by the tone of his voice the president had accepted his plan. He knew he would be held totally responsible, friendship not withstanding. Donavan knew what the president wanted him to say next, and he didn't hesitate. He said the required words. "Mr. President, why don't you let me handle those problems..... -------------------------------------------------- Bannon had been enjoying his new lifestyle on Fiji for several weeks. He always followed the same ritual everyday. The mornings he would spend at the pleasant little dockside caf‚, ordering the same drink, just loitering there, lolling his time away. He had few needs, and he couldn't think of a better way to spend his time and credits. Besides, he was on holiday, and time just didn't matter. So he put his feet up on the table as was his custom, put his straw hat over his face, and dozed. He heard them coming. There were three of them. They had the unmistakable shuffle of the military. They walked in step up to his chair, and stopped. Damn! He thought to himself. How in the hell did they find me? He continued to ignore them. Maybe, it was just a mistake or a bad dream. A female voice intruded on his peace, "Mr. Bannon, will you please come with us." He tipped his hat, and looked up. It was worse than he thought. It was Earth Watch Security. What the hell did these Nazi's want? None of the warrants out on him would justify them getting involved. They did mainly security work for very important people such as council members or ambassadors. He looked at the female who had addressed him. She was tall, arrogant looking, and very beautiful. He really didn't want to have to slug her. Finally he spoke in a casual tone, "I'm sorry, I think you have me mixed up with somebody else." But the female was persistent. "Mr. Bannon, give us credit for doing our job correctly. You're Bannon. Nobody seems to know your first name. You were born somewhere in the Midwest about thirty five years ago. You're a soldier of fortune usually with no fortune." As the woman spoke, the other two soldiers started to position themselves around the table. Bannon was aware of their movements even though he didn't look at them. He continued to listen to the woman without changing his position. "You have just successfully completed an assignment for United Oil. The first successful assignment, I may add, that you've had in a very long time. A friend of yours, Carlan Bixby, helped you with a new identity, and forged new papers for you as well. And your hear now wasting your time." He looked at her again, and then at the two others positioned around the table. Typical muscle he thought to himself. He gave her a shrug of acknowledgment, but didn't like her added commentary. She was very annoying, and really quite arrogant he thought, but she was a major. At least they considered him important enough to send somebody who could make a decision. That thought pleased him. A few tense moments passed before Bannon spoke in reply. "I just have one question. How did you find me?" It was the major's turn to shrug. She didn't think the question important enough not to answer. "Have you used the phone?" He shook his head no. "Do you watch the telecom?" He shook his head no again. There was never anything of interest on the telescreens. "Did you mail a letter?" This time he did not shake his head no, instead he gave her a look of bewilderment. The major smiled at his confusion before she answered. "When you mail a letter, the box takes your picture and sends it to the main computer for cross referencing. If you happen to be on any wanted lists, the program notes your location, and reports it to the proper authorities. It wasn't easy to get World Police to let us have first crack at you. There are some officers at the bureau that have devoted their lives to finding you." In a frustrated voice he asked, "What do you want with me?" "That's two questions! Just come with us. You really don't have a choice. Your credits have already been suspended." His mind was working out a plan even as he listened. He didn't like going anywhere against his will, too many unknowns to keep the odds under control. He slowly stood as one of the muscle heads covered him with a gun. Even as he seemingly ignored the man he wondered, Why do most guards get too close to their quarry? The trio of guards escorted him back to the dock, and when he got there, he could see their boat. He was happy to note that there were no more Nazi's waiting there. The major was smiling at him the whole time. Evidently, she thought she was going to get commended or maybe get a promotion for this. That's when Bannon threw the object into the air. He had it in his fist. It was the cherry from his drink. The major instinctively followed it's flight. Her mind trying to make out what it was. That's when Bannon struck. The first thing he did was to chop the gun out of the hand of the soldier on his left. He then lifted up his leg viciously in a reverse leg kick. The heel of his foot catching the guard, behind him, right in the family jewels. He had dished out punishment and received none in return. A formula for surviving and winning any fight he thought. By this time, the guard on his left was throwing a punch. He blocked it deftly and countered by throwing a punch of his own. It hit the guard squarely in the jaw knocking him into the water. The guard behind him was still bent over, but was beginning to recover. He quickly turned around, and punched that guard sending him sprawling to the dock, but he didn't have time to gloat. As he turned again, he saw the major in a karate stance. She looked very determined, and she appeared very formidable. That's when his mind found the easiest and safest way out. He leaped into the boat moored to the dock. The major followed, but he held his hands out and braced. He caught her in mid-air, and changed her trajectory. Her momentum carried her over the boat and into the water. In one motion he unhooked the mooring line. His eyes searching for the keys. He found them in the ignition, and quickly started the boat. He could see the soldier on the dock shaking off the effects of the punch. The major was trying to pull herself into the boat. He went over and pushed her head down into the water with his foot. "Sorry major!" apologizing to her even as he pushed her deeper into the water, and then he took off. He was cruising for about ten minutes before he spotted a small lagoon. He guided the boat into the lagoon, got out, and was about to head inland, when ten Earth Watch soldiers, in full battle gear, walked slowly out of the tree line with their weapons pointed directly at him. My God! They've sent an army. He quickly calculated the odds, and did the only prudent thing. He placed his hands on his head, and waited. He didn't have long to wait as a hovercraft appeared. He wasn't surprised to see a very wet and angry looking major get out. At least her arrogant demeanor was gone he thought. Maybe, it was the water? It certainly hadn't done anything for her hair. With his hands and legs secured with restraining cuffs, he was escorted to the large hovercraft. Before he entered, he turned around and addressed the major. Ten blasters were pointed directly at him as he casually remarked, "Can I go back an finish my drink?" "BANNON! GET IN THE CAR!" -------------------------------- He was transported to the Wheel. It was the seat of government for the entire Federation. It was located three hundred miles from earth in geosynchronous orbit. He had never been to the wheel before, few non diplomatic types had. His arrival at the Wheel could only mean that someone high up in the pecking order wanted him for god knows what reason. Maybe, for a job he thought. Remarkably, he was escorted to a large suite, and told to shower and change for dinner. His guide produced some rather nice clothes for him, and he was told to choose whatever he liked from the assortment. He was then left to his own devices, but the attendant told him, before leaving, that dinner was in one hour. He went back and tried the door after starting the shower. It was locked. Well, he wasn't completely free he thought. The attendant was punctual. He was escorted to a small room with two place settings, and a marvelous view of earth. The attendant showed Bannon to his seat and left. A few minutes later a man of medium height and build entered the room. His hair was graying noticeably. Bannon estimated his age at about eighty. Not too old he thought. He did seem to look familiar, but Bannon couldn't place him. He did note that the man had a demeanor that commanded attention, and Bannon was mesmerized. The man seated himself opposite Bannon and spoke in a calm but firm voice, "Mr. Bannon, I guess you wonder what this is all about?" "The thought had crossed my mind." "My name is Donavan. I'm the presidents chief advisor. I want you to do a job for the president, and for all of humanity for that matter. I will try to convince you using just the facts, hoping for your complete cooperation with no coercion on my part." Bannon liked the man's straight forward manner, but at the moment, he had other things on his mind. "You could coerce me a little by feeding me. I haven't eaten in a day." Donavan laughed as he signaled for the attendants to serve dinner. As they did so, the man added in a pleasant voice, "For now, enjoy dinner and the view. Later, I will explain everything you need to know." Bannon watched the videos of the battle in the Arena. He marveled at the discipline and skill of the Gamulans. They never missed! And that war cry of theirs! It was like something out of an epic by Homer. They were so muscular, but yet so graceful. They were obviously tall, but their bodies were not awkward looking. They were marvelously proportioned, and they were obviously females. Donavan watched Bannon closely as he watched the video. He could see how he was taking everything in.....appraising. As Bannon watched, Donavan casually asked, "By the way you're watching the vids, I would say you never saw these clips before." "I never watch the vids. As for the Gamulans, I always thought that was the Federations concern." "Do you think they can be defeated?" Donavan asked curiously. Eating the last bite of his pie, Bannon answered without doubt in his voice, "Any force can be beaten, but it won't be easy. Hey! Your not trying to recruit me for the Arena?" "No! Mr. Bannon, I can guarantee you of that. You will never see the inside of the Arena." Something in his voice made Bannon shutter. Did he detect some sort of irony in that last statement. "Mr. Bannon, I 'll get straight to the point. The agreement has changed with the Gamulans." Bannon looked him straight in the face, and was waiting for the ax to fall. As usual, Donavan was straightforward, "The accord is now one of individual combat. It will be held in less than a month on a planet the Meridians call Regna. It will be to the death, and the fate of twenty five star systems hangs in the balance." Donavan stopped to let him soak in the significance of the last remarks, but he didn't have long to wait for a reply. "Let me guess, Mr. Donavan...You want me to kill some nine foot tall giantess with three times my strength, twice my weight, and twice my quickness. And to top it off, she's Annie Oakley as well." "That's essentially correct. Except for the fact that the women are around six and one half feet tall, and they roughly way about as much as we do. I have great faith in your ability. I would put your chances of success at one in three." Bannon shook his head, and tried to comprehend the gravity of what he was being asked to do. "Thank you for your flattering assessment of my talents," he finally answered back somewhat facetiously. "I'm not demeaning you, quite the contrary. I believe you have the best chance of any single man in the Federation, and that's not flattery. That is my assessment of your considerable talent for staying alive." "You want me to risk everything for some hunks of rock light years from here?" "No, I want you to risk your life to save millions. The Gamulans are a warrior race with a code of ethics similar to some of our ancient peoples. The Vikings or the Amazons would be examples. They have lost respect for the Federation. I believe this single battle can avert an interstellar war. Especially, if we win." Bannon put his head down and considered. He was still considering as Donavan sweetened the pie. "If you win, you will be given enough credits to live prosperously for a hundred lifetimes. You will be given full medical which will increase your life span by many decades. You will be given a house on Fiji or any other tropical isle of your choosing. Furthermore, all charges will be dropped against you and your friend Bixby. We'll even throw in enough credits to take care of him and his family." Bannon listened carefully. It was a chance to do some good for his friend. He owed Bixby. What did his life matter? It also was an opportunity to give meaning to it. "There are some considerations," he interjected cautiously. Now it was Donavans turn to wait for the ax to drop. "There is a small section of a Martian colony called New Eden that caved in during the riots. It was never excavated. Too expensive I was told. I want that section cleared, and the personnel entombed there given a proper burial. Religious services, the whole nine yards." Donavan needed no further information. He was familiar with everything about Bannon. He knew his girl friend and father were buried there. "I want one more thing guaranteed, even if I loose my life on that planet. I want full medical for Bixby, and his family." Donavan considered the proposal. It was cheap by any estimation, if Bannon was able to deliver, and save those star systems. Donavan offered him his hand. "We have a deal Mr. Bannon!" "Just Bannon," he said as he shook the high advisors hand...... ----------------------------------------------- Chapter 3 Ritual Combat Glaxxana and her second Tiani walked proudly into the small arena. It was full to capacity, but the crowd was minuscule compared to the multitude watching on the telescreens. All of Gamula would witness this event, and the hundred worlds as well. Tiani carried the ritual bow. If Glaxxana ran from the circle, it was Tiani's task to make sure it was her last cowardly act. It was purely ceremonial though. In all of recorded history, no warrior ever fled the circle in fear. Glaxxana was dressed according to the strict codes clearly spelled out in the sacred texts. She was bare to the waist. Her firm huge Amazonian breasts jutting out proudly before her. They would have to be protected. They would make an inviting target for the picdall. Her flaming red hair was bound in a braid, and reached midway down her back. No ornamental combs or fasteners were allowed. They might be used as a weapon. Glaxxana did not worry about such things. No Gamulan would defile this rite, with all of her sisters watching. She wore only a small ornamental patch of cloth barely covering her groin. It was secured by the finest leather straps artisans of her clan could make. On her body and face were the war markings. They were laboriously painted on by other members of her clan. They were distinct to each clan, and signified the rich and glorious history of each. Her sandals were open toed, and were fastened to both her feet and calves by leather straps. Each combatant was allowed one weapon, the ritual picdall. It was the only weapon used in ceremonial combat. All girls from an early age learned the art of fighting with this weapon. Some of the warriors she would face were highly skilled in it's use. It was a staff about five and a half feet in length. On one end was the bust of an animal favorite of each clan. The Defender Clan portrayed the head of a Chimierra, a winged predator about four feet in length. They were especially noted for guarding their eggs against much larger and dangerous animals. On the other end was a strap that circled the wrist. It prevented the warrior from being easily disarmed. Losing one's picdall during combat almost certainly insured defeat. That end of the picdall was slightly tapered so the combatant could easily grab the staff with one hand. The staff was often swung overhead in one hand with great speed. Along the picdall's length pictographs were portrayed. Each pictograph telling it's own tale of ceremonial combat through the ages. Each clan had a guardian of their picdall. It was one of the holiest items solely owned by any one clan. The champion of each of the five clans gathered around the circle. They looked a fearsome sight with their war paint on, and brandishing their picdalls. Some of the women strutted and made gestures to the others. They were obviously playing for the cameras. Glaxxana stood motionless stoically waiting for the battle to begin. She was preparing her mind and body for the task ahead. The demeanor of her champion did not go unnoticed by the queen. She was very proud of her prot‚g‚e. To her the outcome was never in doubt. She was sure she was looking at a future leader standing proudly there waiting for combat. The circle's diameter measured ten meters. More than enough room for the five combatants to play out their struggle in front of all of Gamula. The warriors saluted each other, and waited for the queen to start the choosing. Outside the circle and surrounding it stood each warrior's second. Ever at the ready to reward cowardice with an arrow. The queen stood on a small platform with the other four of the ruling caste. Behind them were five chairs where they would watch the combat. The queen held out her hands in a gesture of silence as all eyes fell to her. The queen did not have to explain the rules. Everyone knew them from childhood. They were set down in the holy texts by the first queen from the goddess Heim herself. If a warrior was knocked from the circle she would not be allowed to enter again, and she was eliminated from representing the goddess. The only other way for a warrior to lose was not to be able to continue. That usually meant being knocked unconscious. Although, death was not the object of the contest. Many lost their lives in the circle of Heim. The last warrior standing, with no challenge from another, left the circle as the chosen one. The queen signaled the contest to begin, and the warriors cautiously walked forward into the circle.... ------------------------------------------------ Bannon was getting in some exercise on a treadramp. He was thinking about Regna. The terrain would be important to his plans, but the terrain and layout were to remain a mystery to both adversaries till they saw the planet for themselves. Bannon thought it would be critical to remember as much as he could about the land as he descended. He needed to know exactly where the streams and the woods were located, as well as the high ground. Donavan walked into the room and greeted Bannon with true delight. They were quickly becoming friends. It surprised Donavan, but there was a strange simplicity to this man. Maybe, that helped to explain his clarity of thought in difficult situations. Whatever, he saw honesty and integrity in the man as well. Such a strange combination for a man with his reputation. As he watched his friend workout, he gave him the new information, "I have some news for you on the equipment. The Meridians will furnish a complete list and the rules by tomorrow." "It's about time!" was Bannon's reply. "You will be allowed so many points, and each weapon and tool on the list will have a different point total. Each combatant will be allowed to choose their own mix from the list up to the limit of points." "Will I be able to carry my own food?" Bannon inquired. "Food packets will count toward the point total. You should decide if you want to live off the land or take food." Bannon considered for a moment never stopping the treadramp. His answer did not surprise Donavan. "I'll probably want some food. I won't know till I get there how hard it will be to appropriate food from the environment, and I don't want to spend all of my time in food retrieval. I will need time to get to know the enemy." Donavan thought that was wise, but he was sure the computers would give the best possible mix of food, weapons, and tools for Bannon's use. He wasn't so sure Bannon would be receptive to that mix though. Donavan thought nobody knew Bannon like Bannon knew himself. "I have a couple of other points," he said looking Bannon over. He looked fit and ready. Donavan hoped it would be enough. "The area for the encounter on Regna will be twenty five square kilometers, and there will be a force field around the area." Bannon considered for a second and said, "That may mean the encounter could take some time. That should be factored into my choices of tools." There was a pause then Donavan's voice changed. "I've received a letter for you from Bixby. I made sure it was unopened. I think you will find we have upheld our end of the bargain." "And Mars?" Bannon asked. "The excavations have started, but won't be completed till after you've left for Regna." Bannon started to jog much harder. Donavan took that as a cue to leave. But before he could leave, Bannon yelled at the retreating figure of his friend, "Donavan?" he said simply. Donavan stopped and looked back at his friend. Bannon said sincerely, "Thanks!" And then he started to run even harder. That simple statement touched the old man and he answered back just as sincerely, "I promise you that whatever happens on Regna, I will make sure those people get properly buried." He turned again and walked out the door. After Donavan left, Bannon's thoughts turned toward Regna, and the deadly encounter. He felt himself shudder as he momentarily had a vision of a tall muscular woman with red hair. She was riding a unicorn, and looked like she had just swept down from Valhalla to collect the dead. He shook his head for a moment to clear it. The vision was so real he stopped jogging for a second. Was this some sort of precognition? He chuckled, and told himself to get a grip, but he couldn't help but wonder what his adversary would be like..... ------------------------------------------------- The five combatants circled each other warily. Glaxxana looked from side to side as she positioned herself on one of the edges of the circle. From this vantage no one could attack her rear. Louanna from Attack Clan was in the middle of the circle. Glaxxana knew she could be the target for any one woman or combination of women. This was evidence enough for Glaxxana that Louanna would not be the chosen one. Both Roxanna from Feilty Clan and the woman from Alliance Clan, that Glaxxana did not know, seemed to be moving in concert with one another. They were slowly trying to encircle Louanna. The remaining warrior, Diana from Support Clan, glanced at the three combatants, and knew what was happening. She turned her attention towards Glaxxana, and with her picdall slowly moving in huge arcs above her head moved to engage Glaxxana. The battle was joined. She struck at Glaxxana's head. The movement of the picdall above her head gave her blow great momentum and energy. Glaxxana was able to block the blow, but she staggered back a few paces, and almost was knocked out of the circle. Diana had gained a clear advantage from her initial attack, and Glaxxana was forced into a defensive mode as her antagonist reined blow upon blow on Glaxxana's retreating figure. Glaxxana parried the blows taking no serious damage. She was biding her time studying her opponent for a weakness. Meanwhile, the other fight had started unevenly. The women of Alliance and Fealty Clans had apparently allied. They were attacking Louanna from two directions. Their attacks were coordinated, and some blows were getting through. The arena was quiet, and all that could be heard were the grunts of the warriors as they struck with their picdalls, and an occasional outcry as one of the blows found its mark. Diana was still on the offensive. She would alternate her strategy by sometimes attacking low. Glaxxana would jump over the picdall as it's arc intersected with her legs. The fury of Diana's attack did not give Glaxxana time to do anything but defend. She continued to look for a weakness, and conserve her energy. After three or four minutes Glaxxana saw a pattern to Diana's attack, and waited for the next assault at her legs. It came and Glaxxana reacted. As Diana swung her picdall in a mighty arc, and changed her position to aim low, Glaxxana thrust her picdall forward catching Diana's jaw squarely on the bust of the Chimierra. The other contest was not going well for Louanna. She had taken some severe blows to her arms and legs, and these had weakened her considerably. Her two antagonists moved slowly and deliberately to finish her off. She was retreating constantly, and her actions were desperate. Finally, a blow from one girl doubled her up, and the other swung her picdall hitting her with an upper cut square on the jaw. Louanna staggered back and fell over. Diana was knocked off her feet by the surprise blow. It gave Glaxxana time to gain the upper hand. Diana had been hurt, but was still a dangerous foe. She backed now trying to recover, but her actions were defensive, and she had completely lost the initiative. Glaxxana did not give her time to recover. She quickly moved in for the kill. Her motions were a blur as she struck with her staff. She did not swing her picdall, but rather attacked with both hands on her weapon. This allowed her to parry with either end looking for a vulnerable spot. She found Diana's left breast, and quickly followed up with a blow to the side of the head. Louanna was on her knees with blood all over her face. Her jaw was probably broken, but she staggered to her feet. Her opponents let her rise, and waited patiently to continue the abuse. Roxanna glanced over at the other battle, and could see that Diana was in trouble. So she motioned for her partner to quickly move in on Louanna, and did the same. Diana staggered to her feet. They could barely support her as she wobbled noticeably back and forth. She tried to mount an offense, but her blows were hardly noticed as Glaxxana moved in for the last time. She hit her twice more on the side of the head, and once high up on each arm. Diana staggered and lost her picdall. She froze and looked at Glaxxana. Diana held herself as upright as she could, and gave Glaxxana the proudest most defiant stare she could muster, as she waited for the final blow. Glaxxana pulled her blow as it hit her opponents stomach and bent her over and then she pushed Diana out of the circle. It was sufficient to win Glaxxana thought. Louanna was lying on the ground. She could barely see, and she was bleeding profusely. One of her arms was useless, and her left leg was broken. She could no longer defend herself. Roxanna was standing and looking down at her beaten foe as the woman from Alliance Clan swung her picdall high over her head, and prepared to deliver a killing blow. "NOOOOOOO!" Came an outcry from Glaxxana's direction. The woman halted her deadly blow, and looked in Glaxxana's direction. Roxanna stared over as well. As both warriors looked at Glaxxana, she warned in a venomous voice, "Remember you have won nothing yet! And you must face me next!" Both women paused. Glaxxana looked over to the leaders, and the queen instantly stood and issued an order. "Enough!" She motioned to two of the seconds. They entered the ring, and quickly removed Louanna. "Continue!" The queen commanded, and the three remaining warriors began again. Both women looked at each other and nodded. Their alliance would continue for one more battle. Glaxxana backed as her two foes slowly moved forward towards her. She appraised both of them. Neither seemed hurt or winded, and they had taken few blows from Louanna. As the warriors circled again, Glaxxana thought she would have to take one out quickly, and that might require something risky. The woman of Alliance Clan attacked. She used her picdall in a similar manner to Diana. She swung with great arching sledgehammer blows, but Glaxxana blocked her every attack, and countered effectively. They fought for a couple of minutes, and then Roxanna took her place. Their strategy was crystal clear now. They were going to try and wear her down. What either of her foes was not prepared for was for Glaxxana to attack. She waded in close to Roxanna looking for an opening, and got one. She caught her flush on her right breast, and a load scream was heard throughout the arena. Roxanna quickly backpedaled as her ally moved forward. Glaxxana was ready for her as well. She pressed forward and struggled with the woman at close range. Glaxxana had the woman's right wrist in her grasp, and the woman couldn't use her picdall. Glaxxana just lowered her shoulder, and drove her body into the woman. It knocked her to her knees. Then Glaxxana kicked her in the jaw. It knocked her onto her stomach. Glaxxana swung at the prone figure, but only hit the ground with her weapon. The woman had deftly avoided the blow, and scrambled back to her feet. Glaxxana had to admire that maneuver even as she quickly moved in with her picdall, and it was finding its mark on the woman's shoulders and stomach. The suffering warrior tried to cover her vital areas as best she could. Finally, Glaxxana got in a telling blow to the side of her head, and knocked her off her feet. She might have been able to finish her off, but she felt a sharp pain on her left shoulder as Roxanna delivered a blow. She had recovered and moved back into the fight. Glaxxana was hurting, but instinctively ducked low, and was able to miss the greater blow. Glaxxana still in her crouch, thrust forward with her weapon and caught Roxanna square in the stomach. It knocked the wind out of Roxanna, and bent her over. With the quickness and power of a jungle cat, Glaxxana twisted her body, and lurched up and forward with her picdall catching Roxanna on the side of the jaw. It knocked her completely off her feet. Glaxxana quickly turned to see the other woman moving forward with unsteady feet. She pressed forward herself swinging her picdall over her head for the first time. The blow she threw was blocked, but the force knocked the woman to her knees. Glaxxana continued to rein down sledgehammer blows on the other woman's picdall. The woman slowly was being forced down to the ground from the impact of the blows on her staff. Finally, her guard collapsed, and Glaxxana struck her on the side of the head. She uttered no cry as her body crumpled to the ground. She looked lifeless as blood gushed from the wound. Glaxxana froze as she considered that she might just have killed a clanswoman. Roxanna had recovered, and used her adversaries momentary hesitation well. She got in a blow to each of Glaxxana's arms as she pressed forward back into the fray. It hurt, but caused no serious damage as Glaxxana herself pressed forward. They both held their staffs close to their bodies, and prepared to do battle at close range. Their staffs touched, and were frozen at their chests in a test of strength. Each warrior grunting with effort as they both tried to gain the advantage. Slowly, Roxanna was pushed backwards. She screamed in effort as she instinctively felt the edge of the circle draw near. In a move drawn from desperation she slammed her foot down hard on Glaxxana's foot. The pain momentarily broke Glaxxana's concentration, and she was pushed slightly backward. Roxanna thought to raise her picdall and strike, but Glaxxana was quicker. With both of her hands, she struck an incredible blow to her adversaries staff. The force was so great it broke the leather strap from her wrist, and her weapon sailed away. Glaxxana cut her off from the weapon, and Roxanna slowly backed away. Glaxxana did not follow. When the distance between them was great enough she reached down for Roxanna's staff, never taking her eyes from her stunned adversary. She picked it up, and heaved it from the circle. She repeated the procedure with the woman of Alliance Clan's picdall as well. If Roxanna was afraid she did not show it. She stood her ground, smiled, and saluted her foe. Glaxxana hesitated for a moment, threw her picdall from the circle, and saluted back. The tired and battered warriors circled each other preparing for the final battle. They assumed martial art positions each differing from the other. They would fight the final battle in the preferred style of their clan. This time Glaxxana stuck first. She used her hands and feet in combination with lightening skill. Several blows got through. Roxanna's nose was bloodied, but she still could fight. She acknowledged her opponents skill with the nod of her head. Glaxxana nodded back. For a moment both warriors could admire the ability of the other. Then the moment passed, and they both attacked. Arms and legs flew toward their rival seeking a vital spot. It most have looked like a dance to the onlooking crowd as each move was so precisely made. Eventually, the tide of battle turned against Glaxxana. Her wounds were taking their toll, and she was receiving the worst of the blows. This time she was the one who gave ground. She steadily backed trying to summon her remaining energy. Her moment of desperation had arrived, and in that moment she remembered her clan. She was a member of Defender Clan. Her thoughts went back to her childhood, and all the time she spent on defensive movements and tactics. Nianna making her practice the movements till she dropped from exhaustion. In this desperate moment she remembered them all. Her mind cleared once more, and it seemed as if time slowed down. Now, she blocked her opponents every thrust. It seemed like she knew where every blow would be directed, and they came slower. She fought calmly, and waited for her opening. It came as her opponent overextended and slightly lost her balance. She delivered the blows precisely to her opponents abdomen. The first robbed her opponent of her wind, the second robbed her of her balance, and she fell to the ground. Glaxxana's third blow robbed her of awareness, and as her head hit the ground Roxanna was already unconscious. The arena went deathly quiet. Glaxxana tried to stand completely upright, and almost fell over. She staggered over to the woman of Alliance Clan, and could see that she was still breathing. She exhaled a deep sigh of relief. She looked over at the old queen who was standing with a proud look on her face. She looked at Tiani, who had dropped her bow, and was moving slowly towards her. She looked at the crowd seemingly to notice them for the first time, and then she staggered slowly out of the circle of Heim. The crowd roared its approval.... ------------------------------------------------ Bannon turned around and looked at the major. She was the last human he would see for some time. Maybe, the last human he would ever see. He gave her the thumbs up sign, and she returned it. At that moment, he would've liked to have kissed her. He certainly didn't want to slug her anymore. He wondered if she would mind, but the airlock door opened, and a Meridian appeared. The Meridian motioned for him to enter. He waved back in the direction of the major, and entered the Meridian shuttle. The Meridians gave Bannon the creeps. They were a small species averaging around four feet in height. Their complexion was a sickening grayish color with a huge oversized head in comparison to their bodies. Their eyes dominated their features. They had large black oval eyes. If you looked into them it was like staring into a pool of oil. They had no noses and little stubs that must have been earlobes. They did have normal looking mouths except for the very thin pale lips. The thing that irritated Bannon the most was that they all spoke such perfect English. He thought they all would be quite at home at Oxford. Another feature that puzzled him was their clothing. They wore long flowing robes that covered their feet. Bannon wasn't sure if they had feet because when they moved they seemed to glide. As soon as he entered the airlock, he was directed to go through an arch. He thought it was the Meridian equivalent of a metal detector. He could see a Meridian looking at a monitor nearby. Bannon was permitted to bring nothing except the camouflage suit he wore. After passing through, he waited for alarms and buzzers to go off, but nothing did. His guide, as the Meridian called himself, escorted him over to the table, and his chosen equipment. His guide told him he had one hour before touchdown, and the beginning of the trial. Bannon noticed an observing port nearby, and asked if he would be permitted to look out as they landed. The guide smiled and nodded yes. At least Bannon thought it was a smile. He was then permitted to spend time by himself to look over and assemble the equipment. He quickly scanned the equipment. It was precisely as expected. Everything was there. He noted the two large blasters, and chuckled to himself. What a fuss that caused. He wanted to take two blasters down to the surface. The computer assessment said one. It took him two days of arguing with the military advisors before Donavan intervened, and turned the tide. As soon as he thought of Donavan he smiled. The old man was hard as nails, but he had a gentler side as well, and only he had been allowed to glimpse it. He knew he now had two friends in the world. He smiled and said to himself stay alive you old fart! He immediately saw the irony in his thoughts. Here he was going into an extremely dangerous life and death situation, and he was more worried about his new friend who was living the good life back on the Wheel. Did that mean he put no value on his own life? Or that somehow some way he would manage to survive again. For the first time in a long time, he hoped it was the latter. It took him about a half hour to pack the equipment the way he wanted it. Some of the items he put in his pockets. The uniform was designed to hold those items securely. He strapped the knife on the side of his right calf, and his small but powerful binoculars fit in a pocket on his sleeve. The hand gun he strapped to his right side. The rest he stowed in the back pack. He thought it would be some trouble carrying two blasters and the back pack, but that couldn't be helped, and it wouldn't be for long. After everything was stowed, he nervously looked at his watch and laughed. He didn't have a watch. It wasn't an item that was needed. He couldn't afford a nonfunctional item. Finally, he sat by the viewport and looked at the planet. He reminded himself to take in as much as he could on the descent. As he stared out the viewport, his thoughts once again went back to his adversary.... ---------------------------------------------------- Glaxxana looked over her equipment. It was all there. She thought about the old queen as she stowed it. She was just like a mother to me she thought. Why did it take me so long to realize that? She was so hard on me, but she was always there observing and teaching. She was preparing me from the very first. She chuckled as she considered....in life as in battle things are not always as they seem. Then her mood changed as she thought of her real mother. Her own mother had died when she was very young. She hardly remembered her. She wished she could have known her better, but it was a great honor to die in battle, and she died very bravely. She thought of her father for just a moment. Glaxxana wished it was allowed to have known him better too. Glaxxana moved over to the viewport for the final decent. She thought it very important to memorize the lay of the land as they descended. She wondered if the human would be doing the same. As she stared out the viewport, a picture of Tiani came into her mind. She would not be here to cover my back she thought sadly. It would be the first time in many years that her and I would not go into battle together. She knew that she wouldn't be alone though, all of Gamula would be there in spirit with her. It would not be possible for her to lose either. The goddess would be with her, but what if she did lose? She would shame the queen and her clan. The thought chilled her, but only for a moment. No, it's just not possible. She new her skills and her training were the best the galaxy had to offer. She was supremely confident of her ability and the finely tuned weapon that was her body. As she thought further, she said resolutely, I am sorry my adversary, but I must kill you. Then her thoughts turned to another matter. She wondered if the human would prove to be a worthy opponent. She hoped this would be true, and then wondered why. As she continued to stare out the viewport, she hardened herself for the task ahead. I have to win for Gamula, for my queen, and for the goddess. I have to go back, and tell my mentor what she means to me. I have to go back to watch over and teach Tiani like the queen taught me. She thought about all of this as she stared out the viewport, and then her thoughts went back to the enemy..... ------------------------------------------------ He was almost on the ground. Bannon could see the large wooded area off to the left or directly west of where he was landing. A large river was off to the southeast. There was higher ground directly north several kilometers away. This was immediately behind where his adversary was landing two kilometers from him, and due north of his position. He closed his eyes and committed it all to memory. He kept his eyes closed for a second, and wondered if he should say a prayer. Would God be listening? He laughed to himself and thought, What if God is Gamulan? A few seconds later, he felt a bump and knew he was down. He opened his eyes as the Meridian ordered him to leave. He jumped a small distance to the surface, and moved away from the ship. It moved off in a blur of motion. He watched the ship till it was out of sight. Then his thoughts turned to the matter at hand. Bannon noted it was very bright and very hot. The two suns were directly overhead. He noted that one was at twelve o'clock and one was at two. He looked around to orient himself, and took off in a jog towards the woods...... To be continued..... In part three the battle is joined. Glaxxana is surprised at her adversaries cunning. Back on Gamula they begin to worry at the amount of time that passes. On the wheel Donavan figures no news is good news. Both players in the game begin to respect the other, and then.....