"I'll set you free, once you've completed your goal. I want to help you." No fancy words or masked symbols disguised with smoke and mirrors, only the blunt words of a caring individual who wanted to help, being there because he wanted to be, he could feel it. Data streams sucked in like a void in space and time. Doing the same as what all other Imperial Cores do with natural intentions, collect data, sort, store, gain wisdom and knowledge as well as converting data into energy to power them. That simple gut feeling yanked at his darkened heart, telling him to help, to care, to believe that hope still existed in such a time and place where evil and chaos reigned supreme.

Head lifted as she looked upon him. The curiosity of his words seemed abound, but questions went unasked as she looked in his rusty eyes. A brow lifted slightly as the other went to meet it. For once that somber face, it's calm, cool gaze seemed to lift as a smile formed slightly on her lips. It was warm and as soft as the light within her. It was the first time she has smiled since she had been restored. The soft voice came again in such a tone unlike the others.? You would help me? But I... don't even know your name... And you don't know mine.? Eyes seemed to be relit with a fire long forgotten. Some hope seemed to have been restored as she gazed on him.

"My name... Our parents named use twins Ash and Dust because we were one of the first Imperial Cores to build and lead an empire - the ones who created life from ashes and dust lost in the depths of space." He thought for a moment, knowing that most people hated it when he talked about his past, about the empire, about what he is and where he came from. All of which were strangled by his fury. ".....I am Dust...Dust Belarus. And your?"

?My mother named me for what she figured I'd always be. A beautiful princess in her eyes so she thought. I am Sarah Anne Slythe.? Looking at him she noted his name keeping it at the front of her mind. Bowing her head softly she whispered.? Pleasure to meet you Dust Belarus... Tis an honor.? Always kind and courteous. Golden brown hues flickered open upon him as she kept the soft smile upon her face.

Lance pushed his way through the front door of the inn. His mop as moppish as could be. He was hammered drunk... as much as could be. Wearing a green surcoat and all. Several steps brought him out into the alley. He was apparently fast... as he seemed to be.

Green dress hugged her frame as she stepped out into the night. Red hair bouncing on her shoulders as she followed Lance. Stormy eyes on him as she reached out for his hands. The clicked as she stumbled, she wasn't drunk just clumsy at times.

Dust Belarus: "The pleasure is all mine." He quickly noted to her as he nodded his head in respect.

Swallowing as she saw the two enter she seemed to move over and behind Dust as fast as her feet would take her. Peering over his shoulder she whispered.? These are not friends of mine...?

Hands reached back for hers, he was drunk, not stupid. Taking them in he pulled her close for a kiss. "Hmmmm" was mentioned.

Giggling as she was pulled close she returned the kiss. Fingers lifted as they caressed his cheek. Ignoring those around her as she closed her eyes.

"Mine either." The sole of his Tengu hooved boots slowly etched into a slight stance, looking as if he was casually standing in mid-conversation, and yet ready for just about anything to happen, just in case. "The alley was isn't really the ideal place for romance; it stinks, there's dirt slush all over, and it's well below freezing temperatures." He said under his breath as he thought aloud.

?But the alley is their choice. Perhaps we should relocate? Give them some space.? Staying behind him as her eyes fell back to him she whispered softly again. Curiously keeping her eyes away from the pair as she spoke softly again to Dust.? Besides I'm quite freezing, I do not really treasure below freezing, perhaps we could go somewhere warm??

Nearly forgetting that he could feel the expressions of warmth and cold but not actually be affected by it. He simply reached behind him and felt Sarah's body close, following her hip to her arm, and to her arm to her hand; grasping its numb coldness and walking out from the alley way and into the open winter haven of Rhy?Din streets. "Where to?"

Sarah's hand was truly cold as ice. Looking down at the hand clasping hers she looked back to those rusty eyes. Her eyes locking on him for a moment before she replied.? Perhaps the hall will be empty at this time of day or night...? It was night or morning, still dark and cold. She had lost all sense of time in this pathetic little world. As she looked at him she didn't seem to care. Time could pass her by, she had no care.

"Then let us treat lightly and make our way to the halls as swiftly as possible before this wind picks up. We don't need hell to freeze over tonight." He grasped her hand closer to his body letting his long gray torn tunic and cape cover her from the harsh winds. Walking down the icy slush streets to the halls of the red dragon.

She'd crouch down against him as they moved through the elements. Eyes closed now and then as bitter cold seemed to bite at her flesh. Squeezing his hand seemed to help, though she did it softly as she kept close to him. Letting him lead her steps as together the moved towards the warmth of the hall.

Large gold and marble doors echoed through the halls as they slammed shut against the winter winds fury. they were finally there. The halls dark with only the moon light lighting the sky light; casting its dim light onto the empty floors. He had noticed the torches had died down and only ambers survived at they're cloth ends. Walking near one and lighting it with a touch of his cold breath, blue flames burst into live and lit the area pretty well. His imperial orange eyes looking back to Sarah with comfort.

Sighing as she rubbed her arms she had moved her way to the hearth. Slumping low before the fire she pushed a few logs onto it before bringing it to life. Pulling her hair from her face she pulled off her coat and set aside. Hair draped over her back as flesh peeked from the sleeveless shirt. Golden brow eyes turned to gaze on Dust as she smiled softly to him.? Thank you.?

"No worries, I'm sure we'll be safe here till dawn." With that said he took a few steps to the hearth as well and removed his cape/cloak along with the damp tunic, sprawling them out on the floor in front of the fire to dry off. All that covered his body now was the Tengu uniform from the corporation he was affiliated with. His orange maple eyes met hers with compassion as he sat down on the floor in front of the hearth and stared into the flames of the fire place.

Looking at the flames she rubbed her bare arms. Her boots shifted as she slid down next to him. Fingers twitched as she kept her hues locked over the dancing flames. Soft and yet so dangerous were those flames as they licked and kissed at each other with such grace. Sarah felt the warmth flowing back to her as she sat there silent and basking in the fires warm dance.

"I had thought I wouldn't have had the chance to see you after my leave from the market place the other night." He didn't quite know what to say at the moment, he felt somewhat restless and oddly sleepy at the same time. He could only go back and forth; staring at the flames dance, and watch her as she gained warmth and color once. "What I mean to say is... I'm glad I could help."

?I was afraid the shadows would keep me from our next meeting to be honest.? Glancing at him as she smiled. Weariness in her eyes as she leaned back. Rubbing her arms again feeling warmth in her own touch as she kept her eyes upon him, ?I am glad that you wanted to help.?

"I am beginning to wonder what would have happened if I had decided not to show up." Thoughts and ideas strolled into his mind like birds feasting on bread crumbs in a park. there was little he didn't think about, always thinking up something and always active; could never not do something.

?Perhaps it is not wise to think of such things. For they are fearful thoughts. I do not see the point in lingering on what could have been.? Slowly her figure seemed to slowly fall towards the floor, though she had lowered herself. Eyes closing as she lay there. It seemed she hadn't slept feeling so happy and safe in ages. Always moving always running away it seemed. Hiding, keeping a step ahead of the chase.

"Sarah..... come here." He out stretched his arm towards her gesturing with his hand to move closer to him, perhaps using him as a pillow would be a little bit more comfortable than laying on the cold marble floor.

Nodding she seemed to glide as she moved over to him. Resting her figure against him she closed her eyes again. Smiling she wrapped one arm around him. Even though it was him being ever so dark she much enjoyed his company. A light whisper on her lips.? Thank you again for your kindness.?

"..and thank you for understanding me." He thought how so many people would employ him to take out a greater evil, then try to kill him once the deed is done. Even though people treated him quite the opposite of kindness, it never left his mind to try and treat them with kindness itself. Only a select handful of people living in his life currently understood him to the fullest. Sarah was one of those select people.

Using was one of those things Sarah would never do, being used seemed to happen so much to her day by day. Demons from dragons, from humans, to her own kin put her to challenges where her life depended on it. Yet, as she lay there she finally felt what it was like to have free will, to choose her own. Her arm around him as she rested in his arms. Letting him play pillow as her eyes remained closed. The fire dancing and warming her as she shifted slightly and closer into him. The other arm ... lifting to wrap around him as she hugged him tight. Seemed the phrase Poor Sarah, widely used last night was different. Though the teeth marks scared on her arm from the dragon were a reminder on how real so many things were. How night after night she'd have to answer to the things she had done in order to keep herself alive, but for now she was content, care free, and safe. One of the best moments it seemed she had had in quite some time.

The feeling hit him hard, he had never had anyone this close before. It felt right some how. Like he chose to be here, he had chosen to protect her from evils out side the walls of the Great Halls. He had chosen to comfort her in his arms, keeping her warm, safe, and content. For once, it had felt good to do something noble. He had to try to savor this moment and treasure it, for when it became a memory, it would do nothing but taunt him in his dreams; sleeping in that cold small bed of his back at the estates. Knowing no one knew he was gone, or had noticed, because it seemed they never paid attention to him until they really needed his services; for the mean time he was just glad he could be of help to Sarah and keep her warm and safe in his arms. the dancing flames of the fire reflected in those orange eyes of his as he wrapped his arms around her, his fingers gently smoothing out the fabric lining her ribs, the other resting on her lower back. It felt good to know for even a moment, that someone out there understood him and treated him with kindness.

Out of the ship comes Mino seeing Dust he moves over to him,?Hey Dust, and this lady friend of yours would be? Well, first I should introduce myself I am Lt. Colonel Mino of the Bolt Lock and 5th round, don?t worry ma'am I am just tagging along to retrieve my ships from the empire.?

"This is Sarah, my companion. She'll be travelling with us to the Core Systems, where the empire awaits me." He looked Mino over for a moment and then looked over the railing again, it seemed the ship was too large to find a parking spot within the city. But, he had to admit that he had a great pilot and captain taking care of his Chatter Till.

?I see?

Watching silently she stayed rather close to him as he spoke. Glancing at the city she had to admit she hadn't seen it from this view. Lifting a brow ever so slightly she looked back to Mino and bowed her head silently.

Well since he's a large dragon he can't bow but he makes a slight incline of his head in what seems to be a bow.

"Hmm!?! Sun showers?" Just as he had said that the sun peaked out through the clouds and the fall of warm water fell onto the city; its snow steaming and melting as the icy streets cleared off all signs of winter. Seeming for a moment that the cold did not exist. The warmth fell on his forehead as he looked up into the sky and watched the clouds part and gather near the far off distant mountains. He looked to Mino and Sarah as he began to walk towards the ships Cargo bay entrance to take cover from the warm rain.

The dragon felt a great splendor of joy and leaps into the air shining as the rain drops hit him, the great white dragon would seem a rainbow now.

Stepping away from the rain as Dust did she shadowed his steps really. Pulling her hood over her head and shielding her neck as the shadow collar seemed to blaze darker as the sun hit it. She ran her fingers over the collar for a moment before looking back towards the dragon. Another lifted brow she then reached forwards taking Dust's hand if he'd let her. The sun still seemed to warm for her and as she hid away from it under her hood she closed her eyes. Still keeping silent as her boots fell in soft steps.

Then the dragon came back down landing lightly on the ship

His hand feeling her soft hand, palm and fingers glide into his, holding her hand as he stepped out from the sun like it was some sort of fiend out to get him. He preferred the shadows over the light. Dust looked to Sarah as he held her close to him, his cape/cloak wrapped around the two of them like a cocoon, keeping their body's close, warm, and secure. The interior of the Cargo bay was large with large military like containers stacked tall, al of which came in different sizes.

What was in them? No one really knew but the one person who asked for them; Dust. The vehicles began to ling up in front of the cargo bays ramp and unloaded the large containers and allowed the robotic arms attached to the interior ceiling of the ship take over and assign each box a spot according to their use and priority level - stacking them nice and organized like a master of Tetris.

The dragon was lost as it slid back within the ship and off to rest.

Sliding along side him she looked at the cargo containers and then back to him. Smiling softly she whispered.? Thank you for letting me come.? Her eyes went back to watching the men as they moved, stacked, and organized. A few brow lifts here and there as curiosity seemed to grow more and more. Boots still making soft heel noises as she moved through with him. Always keeping close to him keeping her hand firmly in his.

Reaching the back of the large 4 acre cargo room he had stepped inside a large glass cylinder room, few other personnel and crew members stood in there as well. As the door slid close the room began to lift upward into the high ceiling of the cargo room and into the main level of the ship. The room slowed to an ease stop with glass doors quickly sliding open. Dust walked out and looked to Sarah, noticing she had constant wondering eyes from the curiosity that devoured her from within."Come on m'dear."

Constant wondering eyes of course, things were new to her. She hadn't seen so much new things well in her entire life. Nodding as he spoke she kept up with him now. Step after step keeping her eyes on him as he led the way. It was one of those moments where she wondered if she wasn't supposed to be looking. So she kept her eyes on him as they moved through the cylinder.

Now entering a long almost looking like an endless tunnel looking hallway with an arched ceiling. It was very wide with a large sidewalk on either side of its entire length. Small vehicles took up the two way road that led from the end of the ship to the front of it. People of all sorts walked the side walks taking side routes through large metal doors and hallways leading to other large parts of the ship. Where they stood was a small vehicle that had a robotic arm connected to the very top of this arched ceiling nearly 40 feet above them. Dust took a seat in the carriage like vehicle and handed a hand out to Sarah, helping her to the seat next to him. Now that it came to that?s all it really was... a carriage with no roof.

Sliding into the seat next to him she looked from the carriage to him once more. Hands finding there way, one back to his as the other went and took hold of her arm. Her finger twitched as she looked at the city within the ship. Arching a brow more each time something got her interest before she pulled away. Curiosity was abound in Sarah. So many new things to see, but still she would stay with Dust and let him lead the way. Smiling over to him she glanced over the carriage again. All of it seemed over whelming really, but she was happy. There was no other word for the emotion she felt being able to join him on a journey. It was one of those things she couldn't understand but didn't want to argue with, because she wanted to stay with him.

"I hope you?re ready." He said in the most optimistic tone he could muster up from his chest. That certain darkness still lingered but was controllable now. He took her hand in his and held her close to him with his arm wrapped around her body as the carriage like vehicle lifted from the walkway and nearly 40 feet into the air by the mechanical arm attached to a rail way on the ceiling. It began to slowly make its way past the entire commotion taking place beneath them, only the slight breeze from their current speed slipped past they're bodies as the carriage sped up a little bit more but did not go fast enough to the point of annoyance. Dust looked into Her golden eyes with his imperial orange hues and gave her a smile. They were currently traveling up the spine of the ship and towards the head where everything took place. Neon lights began to appear in the tunnels walls and road side as they began to travel into the heart of the ship where the mini city existed, small buildings all lit up with bright tribal colors of neon lights and large bollard screens covering the buildings with flashing adverts of current news and events happening around the ship. Small vehicles skipped across the air higher up within this ship as fireworks began to go off here and there from the roof tops of random buildings in different districts. The carriage they sat in climbed the ships rail way through this small city asessing large buildings, take out food services, condos, and balconies filled with small parks with people celebrating still from the new years that past only a few days ago. the rail system climbed up high above the city and into the smaller parts of the ship, where it wasn't as populated but not ghostly abandoned. The head of the ship is where they were, the carriage slowing down some signifying that they were near they're destination. And soon the ease of its stop barely noticeable, only the door folding outward onto the platform forming a ramp for them to step off from. Dust had stepped out firstly then reached out for her hand to assist her getting out.

Sarah had to look at him curiously as he spoke those words. There was a squeak, small one really, as the carriage lifted from the walk way. Her arms tightened around him as she closed one eye the other one half open and looking about wearily. Arm around him as she gripped at his shirt. The breeze flicked through her golden locks as she sat there clinging to him. Looking up into his eyes and seeing his smile made her relax slightly as she looked towards where they were heading. Resting her head on his shoulder she chewed on her bottom lip yet again looking from neon light to neon light for a moment as she saw the mini city appear. She gasped and looked at it in awe she had already thought they were in a city, but this just seemed to add to the surprise that was this whole experience. All of it was all so new.

Eyes on the city as she watched its life. From neon signs to people with in she gazed at it curiously. Reading a few signs, glancing at condos and vehicles as they flew in the sky. Jaw half open as she looked at it then back at him. Her voice showing her excitement as each moment passed," You live here?" There was a smile on her face really never in her life had she seen such a grand sight of buildings and places. No she had seemed to come out of shadow into the best light she had ever seen.

Glancing at the parks. Watching the celebrations as the carriage slowed and eased to its destination she looked back at him. Watching him step out her eyes still on the city. Looking back to him as she took his hand and stepped out she looked around again curiously. Her blonde hair pulled back from her face as she rested her golden eyes on him yet again," It's all so beautiful." Standing next to him she whispered softly," It's not like anything I've ever seen." She was quiet once more as her head turned to and fro. Everything taken in for a moment as she waited for him to take lead and guide her towards their destination.

"Do you need a breather?" He stopped for a moment letting her take a moment to rest for a moment. "Are you doing alright, Sarah?" He leaned against the wall near the hall way where they would be heading down that lead to the main nervous system of the ship; The command deck, which was also where he had his quarters. He took out a pack of cigarettes and looked to Sarah. "You don't mind, do you?" He asked.

Shaking her head she took a deep breath. Sighing slightly she smiled to him as she glanced around again. Looking at the pack she spoke softly," I don't mind at all Dust." Smiling to him as she pulled out a pouch. Showing off a set of rolled cigarettes she had for her own. She lifted a brow as she spoke once more," You don't mind do you?" Looking up into his eyes as she whispered lightly. Still taking breaths as she took in what she had just seen. It was all still sow amazing to her she could hardly comprehend it all.

He couldn't help but snicker as he witnessed her turning around his question on himself. Funny, indeed. He shook his head and smiled to her, "Not at all, go ahead." He said as he took out a single gray stick and lit it up. Taking a few puffs and exhaling. "This isn't all to much for you is it??

"No it's a bit surprising, but nothing I can't get used to. I hope." Lighting up her own white stick she took a small puff. Smiling at the fact that she had made him snicker. Golden eyes on him as she rested back against the wall. Legs folding for a moment as she looked around. Once more her voice came," This is all amazing."

"I wasn't sure if I should have taken you hear before, but now I'm positive that it was a grand idea. I'm glad your here." He took another deep drag on his cigarette and looked to her with those set of orange eyes. He was excited and happy that this sort of environment hadn't bothered her. Most preferred to sleep in the past instead of embracing the future.

Smiling more she rocked on her feet for a moment as the inhale of more smoke was made. Smiling to him she blushed slightly at his words," I'm glad you asked me to come." Golden eyes dancing as she looked in his orange ones. Getting quite fidgety for some reason as she turned on a heel to face him. Taking another long breath of her cigarette she whispered," I like it much more then Rhy?Din to be honest."

"Really?" He quickly asked. He felt she liked this place a lot, but had never met anyone who preferred This place over Rhy'Din. "Well then I have much more to show you, but, first I have to report to the bridge, retrieve my badge and get to my quarters."

As the door slid open she glanced around the hallway. Looking at the decorations, the lights as they glowed above them. It was all so much to take in. It was highly elegant and well poised something she wouldn't have expected to see at all. As she looked at the wooden door she smiled as both it and metal one slid aside. Walking with him her golden hair swayed over her shoulders. Looking down at his hand as she held it she glanced back up at the fire place as it came into view. Smiling more at sight of chairs and table. Eyes roaming as she looked over the area with dancing admiration. Seeing bed, furs and much more she danced on her heels slightly as she spun slowly taking it all in. As he spoke she looked back at him with a half parted set of lips," These are your?" Looking around again she supposed it would make sense. There was a stumble of her feet as she stepped back in awe," It's... wow." Silent then as she did another once over of the room. The whole room was bigger and better what she had been using as quarters. That she wouldn't think of as she turned to him with a smile.

"I'm glad you like it. Yours are nearly the same type. I usually have my guests quarters look identical to mine. You have a nice large comfy bed, bath, fireplace, mini bar, and a nice view of the forward and side port windows." He motioned to her another door that was next to his bar which led to her guest room where she would be staying for the night. Only a few more hours and they would have reached the Glass Mirror where they could roam around for a bit. Since she was with him now he could be gone with her for a little more than two days. Perhaps now he could take a real vacation.

Looking towards the door she smiled. Pulling her hair from her face she bit her lip. Lifting her brow she whispered softly," All this... it's wonderful Dust." Looking to the fire and then back at him she moved forwards and wrapped her arms around him. Hugging him tightly she whispered," Thank you again and again. All of this is wonderful. I don't know how much I can say that. But I mean it." Staying there and hugging him tight she buried her face in his chest. Giggling lightly as she shook her head. Muffled came her voice as she at last had to say it," Dust... is this all because you want to protect me?" Slowly her golden hues lifted and looked into his orange ones.

Noticing that she loved everything that he had done for her he embraced her hug. Those cool orange eyes settled on her sunflower hues as he heard her lightly ask him the question. He nodded to her and smiled with relief that they were finally at the head of the ship. The long trip from the market place to the inner workings of the ship were taxing but worth every moment of it. He slipped back into through as he began to think about what the trip would had been like if he had gone alone again. Where and what would she be doing. Then, he had remembered what she mentioned before hand. Not to think badly about what ifs of the past. So with a simple blink of his eye he snapped back into reality and looked to her, his arms wrapped around her waist as he looked her over once more, noticing that she had been more happy now than anytime before since he had encountered her..

Yes she was happy. Sarah had seemed at last to have her luck turn around as she looked up at him with a soft smile playing on her lips. A hand lifted to caress at his cheek as she brushed some hair from his face.

Golden against the oranges that looked back at her she wasn't sure what to say really as she looked up at him. Last night was a dream, something she could hardly believe had happened as she thought about it. He had stayed with her the whole night. Awake and watching over her as the sun rose while she slept secure in his arms. She was warm last night for the first time in many. It was one of those bliss filled moments that seemed to bring her wanting to be more then just protected. However, could it be that she was just to shy to say it? Possibly. As she looked at him she smiled more, perhaps while on this vacation she'd find the nerves to say it.

"Excuse me for a moment.. allow me to change into my uniform and gear up." He looked to her as he said that, feeling her soft hand come to his face, his hair being moved to the side so he could see her more clearly, something inside him was trying to tell him something about her, he didn't know what though. His hand reached up to the side of her face feeling her soft skin; he too slightly tucked one of those curly locks of golden hair behind her ear and smiled. He felt happy as well. Feeling good about these last two days he's spent with her. It wasn't like a bitter sweet dream, but more than that. It was with that thought he bent down to grab the case and moved to his bedroom, slightly closing the door behind him and plopping the case down on the bed.

Letting the case snap open and grabbing the nicely folded uniform from within and laying it out on the bed. He began to undress himself revealing those toned stressed muscles, looking like he worked out every day to stay in shape despite the fact that he smoked and enjoyed wine along with the finer things life had to offer. His Tengu under armor uniform peeled off his body like liquid and found itself on the floor, automatically folding itself up and powering down for a moment while he stepped into the bathroom.

The sensors in the bathroom sensed his being the need to wash up quickly before lunging back into his uniforms. The warm water poured down from the ceiling of the shower like rain as he stepped in and stood there under its steam filled barracks. Micro scrubbers came down on him and begin to polish off his body, the water at his feet looking foggy and discolored from the sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells that were being washed from his chiseled body. Soon enough he was squeaky clean and buffed. The water and steam were sucked into the marble floor and surrounding walls as vents opened up and blow dried his body. Now stepping from the shower he went to a large wall covering mirror and looked himself over, looking at the figure in the mirror as if trying to figure himself out, to decipher what he didn?t even know or understand.

Nodding as he pulled away. Even though when he touched her face her eyes closed and she sighed softly. Watching him as he moved towards his door. Clutching the box and nodding again. Eyes falling on the room at large. Over the bed, it's furs and size. Tracing a pillow as she went towards the fire place. Running her fingers over the chair as she waited. Not prying even thought she wanted to look she wouldn't she knew better then that. It wasn't appropriate to sneak a peak no matter how much it was wanted.

As she stood by the fire she traced its mantle gliding her fingers over the design as she thought. So much had seemed to happen in a matter of a week that she didn't seemed to understand. Eyes on the fire for a moment as her brow furrowed in thought she too seemed to be contemplating, working on her nerves as she tried to work through the thoughts that seemed do dance just out of comprehension. Biting her lip she brushed some hair away from her face again and tucked it behind her ear.

Sighing as she remembered his tender touch her eyes closed. Thinking over and over on what to do or to say. Pacing in her spot only to pause as she looked down at a chair. There was a close of her golden hues as she shook her head with a sight," I want to know there can be more between us then protection." Was said out loud though she was sure in her mind she had thought it. Stuck on that thought not sure how to word it to him she just stood there, eyes closed and silent.

After looking into the mirror trying to find some sort of answer he had finally stepped out from the bathroom and grabbed his Tengu from the floor, slipping his feet into the hooved boots and watching as the uniform itself climbed up his figure and sealed shut, powering up, and starting the feed of data once more. He reached over to his uniform and grabbed the shirt, slipping it on and buttoning up to the collar, slipping on the red tie. Grabbing the Black Pant's he followed his legs through one after the other, tucking in his shirt, zip-button, fed the belt through and slipped on the silk black vest. Finally slipping on the black jacket and buttoning it and prefixing his merits and pendants that hung over the left side of his chest. His fingers ran through his hair and fixed a part in it without a mirror, something has become a master of. All the while he grabbed his head cover and adjusted it perfectly. Left hand grabbed the hand of the gun while his right grabbed the knife. Both of which faded from the air and stored in a slip rupture device built into his hands; less space taken up as well as easier and more convenient than using a sheath or holster. The last thing in his case that he bothered with for now was his comm. capsule. Taking it in hand and popping it in his mouth, swallowing it whole, orange eyes looked to the cracked open door and walked towards it. Now coming out of the bedroom and seeing Sarah near the fireplace."How do I look?"

Turning on her heels she gazed at him over and over. Jaw dropping slightly as she stood silhouetted against the fire. Golden hair seemed almost fire red in its glow as the same eyes of gold gazed on him. Her golden jacket hugged at her tightly as black pants fell from under them and over those round toed boots. Sucking in a breath she found herself chewing on her lip again. Staring at his features and gazing, trying to keep herself from drooling perhaps as she studied him. There was a silent stride over to him as she looked up and into his orange hues. Smiling widely she said the only thing to come to her mind," Wow..." Again she'd used that word to describe everything she had seen but looking at him her eyes resting on only him. That uniform hugging at his flesh. The way he stood before her, all of it was possibly the most amazing thing she had seen all day.

"I guess that's more than good enough for me. Thank you." It wasn't often people gave him that good of a compliment. He looked her over as well, feeling like they were more than compatible, feeling that he wanted to be more than her protector. The words don't flow so easily like poetic ramblings of some prince who would travel through desert, snow, body's of ocean, only to say how he felt for the women he loved. It wasn't that easy for him, at least it wasn't since this feeling, this emotion seemed like it had no name, and something he hadn't felt before, something that seemed useless to him in the past that seemed to have had a purpose now.

The words never came out as of yet. Only that smile came into view, the shadows from the flames danced across his figure as he reached out an arm to her and pulled her closer into a hug. "Thank you for coming with me. I been so isolated from civilian life that I don't remember how to act, how to enjoy myself, how to have fun. I thank you because I believe that my vacation will be full of that this time around... and again.... thank you for that."

Arms would wrap around him as he held her in a hug. Closing her eyes she found herself resting her head against his shoulder as she caressed a small bit of his back. A soft smile formed on her lips as she took in his clean scent. Eyes opened as her head lifted to gaze upon him once again. There he was and she found her tongue tied again. Unable to spout it out, to say it as she remained shy, but warm and safe in his arms. Fingers lacing over his back as she found herself pressing a kiss to his neck. A murmur of softness from her voice as she smiled up at him," Tis I who should be thanking you Dust. You could have easily left me behind."

Looking in his orange hues as she made no attempt to leave his arms she smiled once more as the thought of saying it crossed her mind and vanished again with her nerves taking over yet again. He was right there but she was finding it hard to say it, to say what she desired most of all. Tormented by that ach of wanting to be near the man she was falling in love with, but unable to tell him. Wrapping her arms tighter around him she just looked up at him soft features on her face as hand lifted and caressed softly at his cheek. Brushing small strands from his face as she bit her lip.

His eyes slowly closed as he leaned his head down towards her pressing his lips to her forehead, kissing her for a moment. "I could have but didn't have the heart to leave you behind. I wanted you to come with me even if you told me no." Not knowing why he had that feeling about the subject he kept his arms around her and rested his lips back onto her forehead. For a moment the right words rested on his tongue ready to be said, but as he almost hesitantly said them, they were lost once again. "Sarah its almost time.. I'm sure we've nearly reached the Glass Mirror." He said to her, not wanting to interrupt this moment. But felt the time slipping by as they drawn closer and closer to the space slip rupture station.

Reds, Blues, Greens, Yellows, and Oranges glowed past the outer hull of the ship creating long trails of light as the ship looked like it was traveling faster than the speed of light. The blast shields covering the port windows peeled back like wings of an angel letting these magnificent colors flood the entire room with they're radiance. Dust cracked open one eye to look around, seeing the shadows made by the light dance across the walls. His was cuddled up with Sarah, his chest up against her chest; their legs tangled to gather like even the great vacuum of space itself couldn't separate the two. His arm still lounged over her waist with his fingers caressing her back. He watched her sleep looking over her soft smooth face with desperation to tell her he loved her; trying to resist waking her up with the sound of his yawn he opened his mouth a little, bringing his hand up to muffle his mouth. The arched doom of the ceiling looked like a large painting of angels and demons drifting among the clouds in peace, good and evil could co-exist. It was getting there which was the challenge. The old renaissance painting was a sign of hope every morning when he got up from his slumber. Dust eased his way out of the silk and fur mesh of blankets and touched the cold marble floor, an instant refresher in his mind, he thought. Standing up and out stretching his limps into a nice long stretch. His citrus orange hues looking out the large wall sized port windows at the streaming trails of lights whizzing past the ship. "Hyperspace." He whispered to himself in mid-thought.

Blonde hair draped over her face as she lay there next to him. Arm wrapped around him as she slept peacefully. The light shine from the lights drifting over her face as she shifted her head ever so slightly. The sound of his yawn, even muffled came to her half waking ears. A light swallow as she took a relaxed breath from parted lips. Arms laced over him as she felt the warmth of his legs tangled with hers. Half feeling him slip away she just lay there in and out of waking as she nestled deeper inside the blankets that covered her figure warmly. Sarah lifted her head slightly to nestle at the pillow beside her. Arm reaching out she tried to find his warm figure. Caressing the empty spot besides her she opened one eye and gazed about with foggy eyes. Turning in her spot for a moment she looked up at the painting with a sigh. Studying the angels and demons for a few moments before the blankets came up and over her head. Tucking herself underneath she wrapped in a ball still wondering if by chance this was all a dream. Biting her lip she poked her head from the covers to at last let her eyes rest on him. Golden hues dancing as the blankets underneath hid her smile. Shifting a bit more in her spot she stretched her form lightly. Closing her eyes again and rubbing them as she let out more satisfied sighs. Rolling on her side she lifted a brow to his whisper curiously. It was hard to make out what he said as she fought to wake from her second night of wonderful sleep. Glancing towards the light she slid out of bed to join his side. Biting her lip she lifted a brow. Whispering her own soft words to him as her eyes still watched the lights," It's amazing." Though what it was still seemed quite the thing to fuel another day of curiosity.

The slight shifting of his ears picked up the piddle patter of her feet walking across the cold marble floor. Turning from the marvelous sight he faced her only appearing as a silhouette cutout in front of the moving colored patterns. "It is amazing isn't it? I guess we're still in hyperspace for another hour or so." Knowing they both boarded the ship at a late time and being as early in the morning it was hard to tell without a sun to aid in the measurement of time. Reaching out for her with his hand open to her, he pulled her near. His right arm wrapping around her waist, holding her close. "Look at them all. Red, Orange, Green, Yellow, and Blues. All stars passing by at light-years a second." As the words poured from his mouth he looked over to the bathroom seeing the time and a new message scroll across the mirror in a holographic manner. Six am is what it said. The message scrolling across mentioned that they would be dropping from Hyperspace at 6:30am. He gave a smile as he looked back to Sarah and smiled.

Taking his hand and feeling him pull her near she smiled as her eyes lifted to look from the lights to his eyes. Resting her head on his chest she gazed back out at the lights. Watching them as they rushed passed she coiled an arm around his waist as she heard him speak. A hand rose to rest on his chest as she saw the various colors as she smiled," It's so beautiful." The more Dust showed her the more she loved as she gazed up at him. Eyes locking with his as he turned back to her the soft purr of her content voice came yet again in a soft hushed tone," Did you sleep well?" Always determined to see that rested face and smile. Now hoping with all her heart that he would always be happy. Fingers gliding over his chest as cool marble warmed at her feet as she stood there. Eyes falling back to the lights, wanting to stay there and remain watching as they lingered on the colors. The wanting to stay in his arms was also there as she sighed happily. Hair being brushed from her face with her finger tips as it lifted to once again look upon his face.

The tilting of his head directed his look to her with that grin on his face once more that he showed ever so often. His eyes adjusted on her beautiful face, the colors of passing space reflected off her face as he moved the palm of his hand up to her cheek and gave her a gentle kiss on her lips. "Yes, I slept very well and thank you for sharing my bed with me." Giving her another short kiss he then took a step back and looked to the bathroom, since he had already taken a shower before he went to be the night before, he would probably wait till he's on solid ground again. "Shall we get dressed; I feel there's much to show you and much to do." As he said the single word 'dressed' the sleeping lights in the room reawakened and faded into a light level mimicking the morning sun. In front of the bed a trap door slid open with a large control panel moving up from the floor along with a small metal based box. The controls already booted up and ready for commands the box letup with baby blues and oranges, its low hum kicked on, warming it up before being prompt for a command. Dust looked over to the controls and let out a slight snicker, he loved the way the AI of the ship worked. His vision focusing back onto Sarah he gave her a hug, then lifted her up off the ground cradling her in his arms as he walked over to the bed and eased her down onto the bed, "So what would you like to where for today?"

As he looked down at her with that grin she smiled back to him. Stretching slightly to return his kiss her eyes remained transfixed on his handsome face. Lifting her own hand so her fingers could brush strands from his face and gaze into those orange hues as she returned his second kiss. Smiling softly to him she whispered lightly," Good, you look well rested. I am glad that I followed you to bed. I don't think I would have lasted in a bed alone, you would have had me sneaking in to join you during the middle of the night." Smiling softly she watched him as he spoke once more. Sarah wanted to see more, wanted to know more about Dust's world as she gazed towards the control panel and that box. Looking back up at him as he snickered she was slightly wondering just how much surprises she was in store for with him by her side. As he hugged her she returned that hug. As her feet lifted off the ground and she found her in his arms she had to admit she rather enjoyed that spot. Resting her head against his shoulder as he walked to the bed she let out a soft happy sigh yet again. Once she was eased down on her spot on the bed she looked up at him curiously. Looking around at her pants as they rested on the floor where she had left them the night before she thought for a moment. Pulling her hair into her hand her fingers combed through it as she spoke," I don't know... Is there something else for me to wear?" Unsure by all of this, so much new things seemed to capture her curiosity these past few days spent with him. Smiling more she found her gaze resting on the box again with a lifted brow before they turned back to the pants that remained crumpled on the floor. Wondering what he meant was abound as her toes twitched and eyes swiveled back to his face with a confused gaze.

He laughed to himself a bit as he heard her say the word 'sneaking'. His head shifted to the machine prop that rose from the marble floor and looked to it. He already had something to wear for the day. Hoping that they would get to Mahikinah before noon. His mind snapped back into the now, his wondering eyes looked to hers. "Well is there anything you would like to wear when we arrive planet side?? His hair flicked back over his face as he pushed off from the bed with his hands, standing up and walking around the bed to the box he looked over the controls and gave a smile to Sarah, his fingers quickly moving over cursors and prompts, the small sound of flicking here and there only proved he was configuring a little something here and there. Within a few moments he looked up to her with an evil grin as he raised his hand up with a single finger extended and pushed the 'GO' button on the terminal in front of him. The box split in half like an axe to lumber, the sound of clicking and cutting through fabrics and metals could be heard under the sound of the machines joints moving quickly in the middle of the split box. The bright light from within was blinding making it useless to stare and tries to adjust so one could take a peak at its inner workings. The sound of needles and particle lights going off searing through materials soon started up as the box had finally cooled off and began to slow down to a clacking halt. The box closed and then reopened with a 3D rotating model of Sarah in a white tunic with brown baggy pants in brown boots. A few layers of cloth circled around her neck loosely with a pair of goggles and a hoody over her head, a long tan trench coat hung over her shoulders with ease. As it rotated to the back a small pouch could be seen hanging off her belt with a few smaller pouches and equipment.

Brows lifting more, confusion seemed to grow in her as she looked over to him. Chewing on her bottom lip she found herself replying," Is there something else for me to wear other than what I came in?" Watching him as he stood while she replied. Brow lifting curiously higher as he approached the box. Looking up at him smiling she was so lost that poor girl. Eyes moving from the box to him she found herself eyeing that evil grin on his face and wondering just what he was planning to do. When he pressed the GO button she jumped as the terminal came to life. When it split in half she slid forwards. Her figure leaving the bed all together as she crept slowly over to it. Swallowing as she moved to join Dust's side she kept her eyes on the process at hand. Well more like half watch really. The light pushed her eyes away as she looked towards Dust curiously and rubbed her eyes. Listening to the inner workings she found it all impressing that even then something still seemed to surprise her in Dust's world. All of it would at this point, what with it being so splendidly advanced from the world she knew. When it stopped she turned. Brows still lifting as she watched the image of her come into view she swallowed as she studied the garbs that wrapped around that holographic image of her. Reaching out her fingers she placed them against the figure of herself only to watch it shatter like the one had done the day before. Jumping slightly she glanced back to Dust with a glitter of awe and amazement at such things garbing her figure. Again she chewed at her lip as she turned back to the image. There was a whisper on her lips as she spoke to Dust," It's... I can wear this?" Turning back to him she smiled as her eyes seemed to glow with excitement," I can actually wear this?" Pointing to the image as her smile seemed only to grow. The outfit she loved down to every detail, but the thought of wearing such grand clothes seemed to be more like a dream then a reality that she could grasp with her hands. Gazing back to it she seemed to have forgotten all about the crumpled pants laying unused in their spot. Simple enough Sarah loved that outfit she saw that image wearing and she wanted to see it upon herself.

He grabbed the cube and lifted it up off the ground and let go over open floor. As if by the grace of gods hand it didn't drop, it only stayed in mid-air floating. The Cube hissed as a line appeared straight down the center of it and pulled open like an elevators door. A small optic camera looked about the room as if it had a consciousness and spotted Sarah standing near the bed. The holographic image of Sarah floated over to her lining up every limb and pose to fit over Sarah. When it was perfect the cube flew over top of Sarah?s head, the box spreading apart even more as a ring shaped metal object fell down around Sarah then lifting up into the air and into the box once more. The ring fell again, and again. With each pass of the ring around Sarah?s body clothing she was wearing was removed, dissolved and replaced with the new clothing fit for a relaxed tropical/desert theme. The lose tunic with a tight white t-shirt was bounded around her skin. The Tan pants tucked into desert knee high boots. The pouch and Tan cloak, everything. It fitted perfectly over her body," How's it feel?"

Watching the cube as it lifted off the ground and hovered there. She arched a brow slightly as it started to hiss, then it formed the line. Swallowing she continued to watch it as it opened larger. As she was spotted she gave a weak little laugh of nervous curiosity. Fingers twitching lightly as she watched it as it lined up the image with her figure still swallowing nervously. Thinking over and over Dust wouldn't let it hurt her, Dust knew what was happening, and she didn't have a clue in the world what was about to happen as it wrapped those rings around her. There was another nervous laugh from her as she stood there frozen to her spot. As she felt the clothes form on her she bit her lip. Once it was done she watched as it came to the end where those brown boots hugged at her feet. Fingers trailing over her tunic, up to her head and the goggles around it, over the pants on her figure and grazing them over the pouch. Pulling her arms away she turned on her feet glancing at the clothes for a moment, taking breath after calming breath. Turning on her boots she turned to look at him. Smiling again she replied," Wonderful."

"Good," he said as he put out his arms to the small cube. As if by some power he had it was pulled from its hovering spot over Sarah?s head and darted to Dust's hands. He placed it down as he simply added a few modifications of the clothing Sarah was wearing and made it into a males fitting, along with some small extras. His fingers punching down on the 'GO' button again. The cube floating over Dust's head, it opened up and dropped large hula hoop like rings around Dust's figure, removing what clothing he was wearing and replacing his boxers with the same outfit Sarah was attired in. Baggy black pants were tucked into Black boots. A large thick belt with a demons head as a belt buckle was fashioned in a black metal. Pouches on either side of his hip hanging from his belt. A white tight T-shirt was tucked into his pants revealing traces of muscle through the shirt. A black tunic with a white chest rested over his shoulder with a long cloth tail trailing behind him, fell to his feet.

Doors coming closer her eyes sealed and she scrunched up against him. Face buried into his chest she felt her whole body shaking as she waited for it. When the hinges broke free along with them she blinked. Sitting there with one of those did we die looks as she looked up at him and then around. Eyes resting towards the station she didn't seem to relax. Although she noted that her nails were digging in fairly deep with the Tengu suit. Eyes wide they met his again as her face said it all. What just happened? Seemed to be bouncing in a sign on her forehead, though it wasn't really there.

As he almost gave a sigh of relief the half hardened putty nearly gave way and the scratches on the side of the tubing was not a good sign either. Only a few dozen yards away from what looked like an outer wall of the station it had happened, if it seemed like nothing could have gotten worse at that vary moment it did. The putty gave way to the cracked tip of the tip. Stress cracks from the impact began to stream up the sides of the capsule and began to create cracks in between cracks and soon nothing but cracks came into view under the pressure of air and space.

Looking through the glass to see the wall coming closer he began to laugh under his breath. "I hope you don't mind the cold." He said to Sarah as the capsule slowed down to nearly inches per a second, cracks growing more and more. Soon chunks began to cave inward as a hole in the side of the wall opened up - a missile port hole safety at its best. Just as they were about to make it into the missile hatch the tubing shattered from around them exposing them both to the harsh conditions of space. But luckily the Tengu suits hooved boots were activated allowing them to be sucked into the hatch by the gravity sensor array in the boots. The hatch sealed and they both laid safely in the missile bay port hub.

Looking up at his sigh she smiled weakly. Taking a deep breath she relaxed. That was until he spoke again, that and as she saw cracks forming it seemed that even she knew that they shouldn't be there. Brows lifted and she managed to get out," Huh?" Through her panicked voice. Arms went back to tightened position as she closed her eyes. When glass started to fall and cold hit her skin it was a miracle she exhaled. Nails back to their digging in his neck she somehow managed a swallow as she phased out for a moment. When she came back to reality she was breathing air and looking at him. Laying there hands shaking as she pulled him into a tight fear filled embrace as she shook her head over and over. Shivering to the cold she had just experienced and closing her eyes. Teeth chattering as she clung to him she whispered," Can we not do that again?" Eyes still closed she lay there a frozen block it would seem, though in truth it was more like a chattering block. Against him as she buried her face back into the depths of his chest.

"I told you that you have nothing to fear when I'm by your side." He gave her an evil grin as he let out a sigh of relief, they sat in the missile bay bed, the room there had fusion missiles stacked to the ceiling with a few maintenance personnel looking to them like they were lucky to have survived that or just plane crazy. He held her in his arms trying to heat her up when the Tengu released the gravitational boots and began to heat up its skin, trying to get her warmth back,? Maybe we'll go again later Sarah." He kissed her cold forehead and then looked around to see the personnel of the station still staring at them and trying to work at the same time. He just chuckled reminding him of another crazy dangerous stunt he pulled off in the great nano wars some years ago. "If your warmed up enough we can get going and continue to my shuttle that will take us planet side."

Still shivering she thought about his words then what she had just experienced. Shivering more she clung to him and shivered yet again. More and more the chill of what had just happened seeped from her to be replaced by the warmth of him and his Tengu suit. Closing her eyes as she sighed she practically did a double take of his words. Do it again? Sarah thought for a moment and replied," Can we do that again without the freezing cold or is it required?" Smirking at him she closed her eyes to his kiss and sighed. Holding on to him she nodded as she ignored the eyes that seemed to be transfixed on them. Crazy perhaps. But still as Sarah lay there she didn't see why they were seen crazy. They were just out for some fun really. Granted for a while she wouldn't be able to see that as fun. Maybe when she had warmed up and relaxed a bit then would she think that was fun. Granted the adrenaline rush was great as she looked in his eyes with a smile. Kissing his lips she stood slowly and helped him up. Brushing off her clothes she spoke softly," I'll be fine with you by my side right?" Smirking slightly she said as she took his arm," So lead on my dear and I'll stay by your side."

He looked to her as he was helped to his feet. The Tengu cooled down once more as he took a step out of the missile bay bed and stepped on tiled metal floors. Looking around to the immense room with all the missiles stacked on one another he gave a smile thinking that this was a great place to store explosives if something were to happen, then again all these missiles were in sleep mode and wouldn't be set off if any of them were met with an explosion or gunfire. He looked to her once more as he grabbed hold of her hand and walked to the sliding blast door which entered into a hall located directly below the main plaza modeled city of the station. It was already seven in the morning according to the planets time frame measurements.

Looking down the hall he noticed many small vehicles slowly driving by as they hopped on the back of one vehicle that was heading out towards the surface into the plaza city. "So you enjoying yourself my love?" He looked to her giving a quick kiss on the lips wanting to feel that feeling that was so alien to him. The tingling sensation of a kiss that borrows deep down in his gut like an addiction he could never escape at anytime. He could only imagine now what it would be like to have a taste of love and then lose it and to never find any other like it again, it would be agonizing and a form of torture in his eyes. Even through he is the kind who would consider torture as an art form and a hobby in times of war.. This sort would be unbearable for him to survive.

Eyes were only on him as he stood, examined the area then took her hand. Walking from that chamber and on to the other she had not a care in the world as long as she was by his side. Squeezing his hand as she glanced around the hall spotting the vehicles as he had. Smiling to him she moved with him and on towards the vehicle climbing onto it with ease. Standing there, gazing at the new world around her she looked back to him in time to received his words, Feeling the kiss against her lips she returned it as if emotions were on the line between them. Love growing it seemed, never wanting it to dwindle or fade away.

Sarah wrapped her arms around him as they moved along. Not glancing at the city but at the one thing she'd stare at time after time, him. Fingers caressing at the Tengu suit where she had gripped it so tightly earlier she sighed bliss filled at that kiss never wanting any of this ever to end. Loving so much and to loose it would be a nightmare she wished she'd never have. Fingers clasping with each other as she closed her eyes. Holding him close she knew then that the emotions she felt were too strong to ever be pushed aside. Sarah wasn't going to go any where. She just couldn't, no she wouldn't, have the heart to leave Dust or his world behind. Dust seemed to be the one thing that she treasured more then silly curses or race problems. There was never any fear or doubt in her mind as she gazed into his ginger hues that he'd coil away from her just because of what she was. Together seemed more important to both of them. And Sarah knew that when she did tell him he'd still stand by her side. Still she would wait for the right time to tell him, for now she was having too much fun just letting him show her around his world.

The small tram cart passed by shops and people. Buildings sat on tall stilts with parks and controlled plant life growing underneath them in controlled temperatures and automated gardening bots. It seemed this station was all about cultivating wild life. Which it was; The Empire had made a note of all the planets that had died off or were slipping from life because the virus known as man would travel planet to planet just to populate and mine out all of its resources. Many eons ago the Empire sent stand alone stations to these planets that were slipping away and dying off into large chunks of rock that were inhabitable. These stations would gather plants and animals to re-cultivate the planets, lots of testing and re-engineering took place over the years but eventually time paid off and progress and advancements kept moving forward as one planet after another became success stories.

This planet was one of them; the planet of Mahikinah. This station was known as the 'Lok N Caps' which meant ?Love for life? in the language of the planets inhabitants, the Makanese, tall proud creatures that were both of the sand and of the water. Pale or black skin with gold patterns found all over they're body, large eyes with fine eye lashes. With webbed hands and feet used for swimming, but slender sharp claws that were used for climbing and digging for water in the deserts. Usually wrapped in fine silks and vary religious about they're culture they also were vary good at trading and learned to become leaned back and enjoy life one day at a time. Dust could see the shuttle complex up ahead a few kilometers away. It was a tall white building made of salt.

Technology has been built into the salt stones over time and was originally used as a science center to research the engineering and growth of salt. Now after a break through science to grow salt artificially at a rapid pace they turned the place into a hangar for ships. Only downside was that the salt would slowly peel the paint off from the ships making them look rent age to a point. The cart tram had finally arrived in the area. Salt lined the side walks and piled up against the buildings. It looked like snow but was potent to smell and if not careful could blind you if caught in people?s eyes.

Dust pulled his crimson cloth up over the front of his face to keep the smell from entering his nose or inhaling it, then readjusted his goggles over his eyes for safety reasons, he nudged Sarah and nodded to her; sort of a hint, hint to do as he does. "Looks like we're here finally", he said as the tram stopped and he hopped off the back into a piled of salt. Large blue sliding doors stuck out in the salt building, the Empires logo across the front was chipped and fading. A few local security men stood out front in white attire with masks and goggles. Already noticing Dust they moved out of the way and keyed the near by terminal, opening the doors to enter the complex.

For a long while she just gazed openly at her surroundings. Seeing the Makanese she couldn't help it, she found it hard not to watch one as they passed. Standing there brown pants hugging at her hips she kept watching as the area grew out ward. More and more things kept catching her eyes. When he nudged her she glanced up at him. With a quick response she pulled up the fabric around her neck and tightened it slightly to stay in place. Goggles were pulled down over her eyes as she gazed about once more from her side besides him. Her golden locks seemed to curl and whip out like fire behind her as the tram moved along. When it stopped she glanced to Dust as he spoke. Brows lifting she turned to look about the piles of salt as she stepped off behind him. Holding onto him as always keeping hand in hand she shadowed his steps with her own brown boots as her eyes gazed curiously. Those masked eyes lifted over the logo and studied it for a moment, storing it in her memory for future reference. The head on her shoulder bobbed down a bit to look at the guards as they stood aside. Watching them key in something she kept right along side him. Golden hues glittering with excitement once more as he continued to amaze her.

His strides were casual as the boots walked over freshly swept salty floors. Looking down the large hall could be seen one of the maintenance personnel riding a sweeper that drove up and down the hall sweeping loose salt up against the walls and buffering the salt block flooring, it shinned and nearly giving off a reflection. Black Tengu covered hands gripped around Sarah?s hand as he walked down the hall to a much, much large door than the one they walked through before hand. It was kind of scary for some people that walk down large halls like these with large doors. It gets them to think and wonder 'what could possibly possess someone to build such big halls and doors', then it just gets them to think if they built them so something big could fit through.

With that pointed out he walk toward the large doors, the sound of gears, levers, and pulleys all made of salt could be heard within the inner workings of the door. Salt pressure could also be heard shifting into different weighted capsules to cause the first layer of the door to slide back on its salty tracks, then the weights shifted once more causing the second layer and final layer of the door to crack open horizontally, one shutter moving up into the ceiling and the other into the floor. His attention drawn from the moving doors instantly to something else, the reason why the halls and doors were build so big.

The ground slightly shook and salt debris fell from the walls and ceiling slightly with each long pass of a footstep was placed onto the salty ground. It looked as if ogres were walking past Dust and Sarah in a group. Large drill bits were carried by a few while large drills were strapped to they're sides in large utility belts specially made for them. Dust smiled, it wasn't the first time he had saw this exact same crew and it wasn't the last. These ogre's standing anywhere between 15 to 18 meters tall were the architectures who worked on the complex, building it into a monument to let all know of the achievements made by the people living on this station; Lok N Caps.

As the Ogre's walked on Dust's eyes moved to the large shuttle that stood propped up on its three legs/landing gear. It was Yellow Orangish with blue and green designs here and there; of course all of it was fading from the salt but still looked in mint condition. Three Makanese' stood outside waiting for his arrival. A Pilot, Navigator, and an Engineer. They noticed Dust and Sarah coming and stood up to they're full height of 8 foot, looking so slender with long arms and legs and yet so elegant.

Dust smiled to him and then returned to his seat, he was a passenger of one of his own shuttles and yet he had to do the piloting. "Sometimes I wonder where they get these people." With that he leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes taking a short nap till they arrived at the space port in one of the tribal villages some 80 miles from the closest city. His hand slipping into hers as his fingers locked between hers, a small smile crawled across his face like a sneaky cat looking to get some milk.

Sarah watched as Dust's gaze wandered to the forward windows and the sea of dunes madly approaching the ship. The sense of trouble became apparent as she took note of the pilot having trouble, there was even a gulp as she saw the co-pilot move to help regain control. Fingers gripped at Dust's hands as she didn't even attempt reading their lips, though if she had know the situation she would not have blamed Dust in the slightest.

Sarah would question the fact that the ship should have been maintained ahead of schedule, thus was her logic. As she looked at the other four passengers she didn't envy them and their relaxed nature. Sarah would never want to be unaware of the situation around her that was obvious from day one, even if she did ask too much questions and look around to much. She was observant, even as she saw the smile fade from Dust's face that issued concern right away.

This time her gut twisted and tensed and as he unbuckled she noted the expression on his face with a mix of confusion and terror. Releasing his hand she felt it uncoil from his fingers, a cool breathing wave came to her hand at his absence. Orbs of gold shook as she watched Dust move to the Front Cabin, ever aware of the intoxication behind her that was the passengers. Ready to act on a moment?s notice she watched and winced as she saw the situation get placed in the right hands. Seeing the calculation taking place and Dust assessing everything kept her calm even then, granted she could have been panicking, but for once she wasn't.

Sarah had a clear head as she kept both eyes open. As the elder pilot was taken over by Dust as he gripped a hold of the controls with the one arm she could see. There was a deep breath as she waited to feel the ship begin to level. Closing her eyes she muttered something under her breath as she sighed in relief. An exhale was made from her lips as her eyes opened on Dust once more. Examining the way the ship moved between dunes she was reassured he had it all under control. Watching the dunes get higher she swallowed again as one of the dunes got closer on one side.

Now gripping at her seat she dug her nails into the arms eyes focused on her hero, Dust Belarus. Keeping a smooth breathing pattern her eyes gazed at the old pilot for a moment wondering quite obviously why he was still flying a ship, but she didn't want to argue at the moment. Watching the hand off take place she was sure that all was well now. Even relaxed as Dust returned back to the seat next to hers. Brows lifted as she sighed and slumped into her chair at his words," Perhaps it?s something to be examined after the vacation."

Sarah hated to think about after the vacation. Watching him close his eyes her head turned to take in the passengers for a moment. Feeling his fingers return to hers she squeezed them softly as she smiled lightly to him. Another sigh was made as she relaxed and closed her own eyes head resting against the back of her seat for a moment as she let the experience now over her mind was put to ease, though the words running in her head were repeated one final time.

Her faint smile got wider as she whispered lightly," My hero." With that said her eyes opened slightly to gaze at the window once more before they drifted closed again. Body feeling the twists and turns of the ship as it moved along its 80mile trek to the closest city. Fingers tied with his and keeping their grip firmly in place.

For a short time the shuttle hurtled past seas of dunes. The sight of large creatures
walking across its sandy floors was seen all to often. Dust could feel they're life force, hundreds of them crowding together as they migrated to water, others migrating back to the dune sea to mate and raise off-spring. But then there was the other white meat, the even larger beasts that roamed the desert side. Hunting down anything they saw through they're mad twisted minds, they were the ones diseased with anger and fury. Funny as it may have seemed for the moment, they were actually the same creatures Dust and Ash hunted down or tried to ride as younglings. The name of the beast had escaped his mind for the moment, but he could still feel them through the data streams.

Small villages made of bone towers and high walls of metal, bone, and mud climbed many meters. Protected from the harsh desert environment and from rogues who had often ambushed the trade routes the villagers took when going to the city and to hunt. Dust still had his mind rolling, the gears and cogs turning and always thinking even when he slept for this short time.

Most of the passengers of the shuttle had fallen asleep from being over intoxicated, it was after all after midnight for the planet side they flew over, but the addition of two sun made it appear day; four out of the 9 days of the week here. The days were long, but the nights were longer when actual night fall came, when the darkness came the dangers and risk factors were higher for everyone.

As the city came close the suns slowly shifted as the planet spun on and drifted on it's axis. The sun shined through the windows of the shuttle shining on Dust's face, causing him to toss and turn in his crash couch and soon wake up in time to see the city. It was large and alive with lights. Looking like a large broken ship that crashed straight into the planet. Large sky scrappers scratched at the sky hiding a large portion of the horizon since it was far too wide.

Spots and dots move about the city's limits and moving through its inners, they were the transports of the city. As the shuttle grew closer, the city appeared more and larger than what Dust has seen in a long time. Not since the empire. Dust looked to Sarah and flashed a smile as he looked back to the city itself.

The desert flashed by Sarah who was blissfully unaware of it or the dangers. Her mind was shut off as she slept clutching to his hand. Granted from the moment the trip had began she wondered what she would see, what surprises Dust had in store for her, and what kind of adventure it would be when she woke up from the last bit of adventure that had come her way. There was no note of the creatures, Qwertah Chaffles, in which she'd learn of later through Dust's experiences with her and the things she would learn from the rest of the family.

For now her sleep seemed to be keeping her relaxed as he slept close to her. Intoxication was not why she had slept, it was more to rest her mind from the moment of tension experianced moments later. The passenger's silence was welcomed at this point though there were a few times a snore seemed to make her turn in her spot. Never releasing the hand of the one she loved she was now fully in a ball as he woke to the lights of the city around them.

The watching done by Dust wasn't observed in the slightest. Sky scrapers would rush by her
and she wouldn't get to gaze at them from this view point. Not even when the lights flashed over her face. However, her figure did shift once more in its spot, but once it was hidden by the strands of hair that would come over her face she went back to her still slumber. The city limits, all of it were not noticed, nor seemed to hold a care in the sleeping girl as her mind remained blank and thoughtless.

She was content to just hold his hand for the moment. When Dust flashed her a smile she missed yet another chance to see delight on his face. Yet, now it was possibly noticed by him that she was at ease. Arm that wasn't occupied came up and hugged at her curled legs, the ball of her figure curled and warm despite the slight shiver here and there at the lack of the warm body next to her she had grown accustomed to in such short time.

There was a faint smile even then on her face as she lay there, motionless and still. Peace, bliss, and the fact that she was content obvious on her soft face. The tunic around her was wrinkled slightly and askew as the fabrics tried to adjust to her change in form. It seemed as if her boots had been kicked off in mid sleep because there were her feet, socks poking out from under the tan pants that help keep her small figure warm.

The city swallowed the shuttle whole as they slowed down and entered the traffic in the sky, skimming along the buildings side as other local traffic took they're different projections. A large building that had many platforms sticking from the sides like a puffer fish had many ships occupying each of the platforms, the smallest was reserved for this discrete ship. The shuttle's co-pilot eased the controls downward, the ship corresponded with downward thrusters that eased the ship to a slow and steady halt.

The wings shifted to the side to compensate for room as the landing gear folded out like large pins that fit into small holes built into the gray plated platform. They locked in and the ship had finally been landed. The elderly pilot relaxed in his seat as he pulled up the comm. for the control center and notified them that they docked. The co-pilot began switching controls, knobs, and levers. The engines spun to a halt and cooled down with cold liquids that would evaporate on touch creating a light fog around the engines that nearly froze, it drifted along the ground and fell off the sides like a Chinese waterfall and soon faded.

The side hatch for the passengers slowly eased open with the flick of a switch from the co-pilot. "All clear to go folks. Welcome to Mahikinah!" He had leaned back in his chair and began going through logs of they're next flight and preparing for a technician team to do regular routine work on the ship. The pilot had rested finally, still shaken by his experience from earlier.

Dust looked to Sarah sleeping so soundly not want to wake her only a smile came across his face to see her slumber so peacefully considering the choker that seemed irremovable around her neck. He wanted it to go away. The other passengers eased from they're sleep, gathered they're belongings and headed to the exit, going about they're business. Apparently sleeping off the drug. Dust grabbed his belongings as well and looked to Sarah?s boots that slipped off in her sleep. He leaned into her and gave her a gentle kiss on her lips. "Time to wake up darling, we're finally here."

Sarah remained oblivious to the world around her as she slumbered. Dust seemed to be the only one to have noticed that she was asleep. As the city swallowed the ship she stirred to the change of light, but did not wake. The body didn't even seem budge an inch as the ship entered the platform meant for it. Even as it slowed to a halt she remained calm. The shift of the ship as it locked its wings; the sound of the engines spinning to a cooling halt, the sound of passengers stirring all went unnoticed by Sarah.
The co-pilot sounded as the hatch opened, not a budge. As the passengers left to go on with their lives, unaware of how short it would have been if it wasn't for Dust. The sound of Dust rummaging to collect their belongings made her turn slightly, hand finally released from his, but seeking it out. As he leaned in her hand came to his side and gripped a hold of his shirt, even though she was still deep within the grip of the sandman.

As the kiss was placed to her lips there was a sigh from her as she slightly wiggled against the feel of it. His voice was like honey to her and didn't seem to bring her from the grip of a slumber. However, her left leg extended out wards in a stretch as fingers on the opposing arm hugging her legs opened and shut. Hand came up over that collar around her neck and the shadows coiled away from the peace and bliss that was coursing through those finger tips. The other leg came down to join the stretch slowly as she turned in her form.

Those lips pouted outwards for another kiss from his lips as arms came to rise above her head in a full on completion of the stretch. Golden hues slowly drifted open and took in the face she would have been dreaming of if she wasn't as content as she had been. The small form of Sarah inhaled a deep waking breath as head turned to gaze from scene to scene. Fingers came down to pull the strands from her face as she sat forwards in her spot. Rubbing over her eyes softly her lips parted and a soft dreamy voice issued from her lips," We're here already?" It was delicate as ever as sleepy gaze lifted to Dust again.

Toes wiggled in her socks as she shifted slightly to release herself from the twisted buckle. As she came free another full body stretch was taken and lips parted in a rather lengthy yawn. Those eyes closed for a moment as she slid up looking for her boots having missed that they were in Dust's hands. Blinking her dazed face looked up at him and the dreamy voice was issued again," Did I bring any boots." Shaking her head she rubbed her eyes again as her mind began to start the slow working as it woke from such a contented slumber.

"Yeah we're here already." He replied to her as he slid his arm under her back and pulled her in for another kiss. The co-pilot looked to them with a look of "please exit the craft before the technicians arrive". He ignored the sign and gave her another deeper kiss. His tongue coiled and twisted with hers, moving about in twisted ways only teasing her gently. He eased out his tongue still partially sticking from his mouth as he smiled an evil smile and then moved in to give her a quick lick of her lips. The taste of some distinct sweetness lingered and teased his taste buds, making them scream for another sample. But instead, he stood up and showed her the boots in his other hand.

Dust?s fingers slowly trailing across her neck as he pulled away, looking to the hatch that had opened and the large platform waiting ahead. He felt like her was home again, within the boundaries of the empire where he belonged instead of the backwater planet of Rhy'Din, but still that is where his family was, he respected that and only lived there for them and Sarah. If it was his choice he would stay within the systems the Empire had control of, at least he knew his way around and hadn't felt so out of place.
His gaze peered back to Sarah's beautiful figure and her ever so sweet and gentle face. He had much to show her and even more to teach her, he felt sorry for her. To imagine the confusion she always felt in his universe, the numerous questions and curiosity she had always felt that she wanted to vent out to him hoping for answers. It was there he would make an oath to
himself. To help her all that he could and more, to teach her all he knew and to be patient. He
wanted to give her answers to her questions and never leave her astray from the truths. What ever she had come up with in her mind to ask, he would give her the truth in absolute.

Dust set the boots on the floor in front of her so she could slip them on, giving her all the time she needed. He was in no real hurry, only excited to show her his world, and to let her bath in all that it had to offer. "Did you sleep well, Sarah?" he asked, concerned that she didn't get enough sleep from the long and slow journey to the city. "I hope it was comfortable for you." He added as his mind focused back on her once more.

The city was draped in red clothes, large banners hanging from building to building, not to act as shade and a windshield, but it was the markings on the banner that made them so special, they held the symbol of the empire. It was seen a lot through out the cities here. It was one of the main stop offs for travels making they're way along the intergalactic trade routes from here to other worlds and star systems including his real home, the capital system of the Core Empire. Where even more interesting things had happened.

Sands collected on the platform and piled up against most of the wall on buildings and corners. There was a lot of sand, but on other strips there was just as much water where the tropical scene could be found. Most of the sand was used to make glass and fuel. So it wasn't as much of a burden as most visitors had thought. Everything a person needed to survive was there, it was just a matter of where to look.

That kiss seemed to help turn on her brain. As they got that look from the co- pilot she was miles away. Arms were thrown around his neck and remained limp as her body reacted to that kiss and the best wake up call she had received. The deepness of that kiss made her body shiver and tingle for but a moment of bliss and contentment, yet again the collar coiled. Tongue twisting and tangling with his she never wanted the kiss to end as he teased away at her.

When he pulled away to lick her lips she glanced on towards the hatch and the adventure ahead. Eyes lifted back to the co-pilot who seemed stuck on that perturbed look, a return of a offended one was given to him as she thought of how close the ship had came to impending doom. If it wasn't for Dust they wouldn't have made it into the city and as she looked at the man glancing at them he seemed to realize her thoughts.

Shaking her head she brought her feet up and through those boots opening slowly. Figure kneeling down so she could go through weaving and adjusting them back into a simple knotted tie. Her ears tuned in to the city around her she, for now, had no questions to ask. A flicker of the crimson flags that marked his world made her body spark with excitement and glee, for the fact that she was seeing something so important to him made her feel that in some way she was even more a part of his world. Those fingers brushed at her boots then the tan pants as she rose to look into the orange hues of Dust's as he turned back to her.

Smiling again she inhaled a deep breath of air as at last those goggles were adjusted over her eyes. Peering through their orange tint her eyes scanned the area as she turned to look out the hatch once more taking in every detail she could see so far. Brows lifted as her ears took in his questions. The word 'sleep' made her stretch once again as she answered," I slept as well as could be expected my love. I didn't have the lump next to me as usual, but it was still comfortable."

Turning to look at him she smiled lightly and leaned in to wrap her arms around his torso. Looking towards the old pilot she nodded to the man before her head lifted to press a kiss to his lips for a quick second," I'm ready when you are."