He dived instinctively hoping to avoid the inevitable and swam in frantic haste. He saw the beak skim the near surface, catching a large fish before rising once more.

He surfaced at once, the warm buoyant water seeming to support him. Then he swam to the near bank and hauled himself out.

“Out of the frying pan perhaps?”

He suddenly realised his clothes had changed. The silver suit had been replaced with animal furs. Only his hair-covered legs were visible. For all intents and purposes, he looked like a caveman.

Andy shook his head.

“This is getting sillier my boy.”

He wiped his hair and climbed to his feet. The foliage was huge and strange trees grew in all directions. He noticed the absence of grass and then realised where he was. The Cretaceous period.

“That means dinosaurs. Damn it. I’ll be eaten alive.”

As he said this, a large dragonfly flew past and vanished among the plants. Andy stood up and began to wonder what was going on. Only one idea seemed to fit the facts.

“Time travel,” he shouted. “What happened to my passengers though?”

As this thought went through his mind, a loud roar ripped the air apart. He hit the deck as branches cracked within the foliage.

He managed to glance up and saw the hideous form of a Tyrannosaurus lumber past. Andy remained still, hoping it had not seen him.

The creature lumbered on and he sighed in gratitude. Being eaten by one of those would have been unpleasant indeed. When he deemed it safe, he crawled into the undergrowth and listened. The creature was far off now, and other bellows could be heard faintly.

He stood then and started walking through the plants with great care. Many of these were over seven foot high and swayed gently in the breeze. A loud crack made him dive down.

He glanced around but could not see from whence the noise came.

“Psst.”

“Who’s there?” Andy whispered.

“Over here.”

Andy looked and saw a large slim cat lying as flat as he. The bright blue eyes shone with intelligence.

“You had better come over here,” the cat advised. “That T-Rex is no fool you know.”

“Now I am going mad. Talking cats indeed.”

“Shut up you fool. Just get yourself over here.”

Despite his better judgement, Andy joined the cat and saw that it wore a yellow cloak that was closed with a throat clasp. The paws had brown fur and the animal stared at him.

“I’m Jerrix Tau by the way. And you are?”

“Andy Sarson. How did I get here?”

Jerrix looked around quickly.

“That is what I’d like to know. I crash-landed. Love the outfit by the way.”

“Not from choice I assure you,” Andy replied. You have a plane?”

“Not really. I have a ship. Now I think it is safe. Follow me.”

The cat stood upon its hind legs and calmly walked through the thickening plant life. Andy was shocked but followed anyway. This world was getting a bit too strange.

“You can’t remember how you got here?” Jerrix asked.

Andy explained himself.

“Obviously some time distortion then,” Jerrix replied. “As for your passengers well? They could have ended up anywhere.”

“Is that a fact?” Andy asked.

“I am afraid so Andy. Such things have been known you know.”

Jerrix made his way purposely through the plants until they reached a clearing. Within that space, the bloody remains of a stegosaur stank to high heaven.

“That’s a herbivore,” Jerrix explained. “Just don’t let it stand on you.”

As they inched past Andy asked, “Where are we going Jerrix?”

“Back to the ship of course. Perhaps I can get you back to Norwich.”

“You can do that?”

Jerrix regarded him coldly.

“Compared with your species I’m a genius. Now shall we continue or grow old here?”

Andy shut up as his strange friend led the way.

“So how long have you been here?” Andy asked.

“Only a few days. The time field collapsed and I turned up here.”

“You travel in time?”

“Certainly I do. What’s the problem? Feeling inferior are we?”

“Well, just a little,” Andy replied.

“So you should. Now where is it exactly?”

Jerrix stopped and stared around. As Andy watched, he walked forward and promptly vanished.

A voice from nowhere called, “This way Andy.”

He found himself inside an advanced control room that shimmered in a pale blue light. This seemed to emanate from the very floors and walls. At the centre stood four metallic cat statues, which were five foot high. A little taller than Jerrix. They stood at the four compass points and within that space, a metallic dome rose to waist height.

“What do you think?”

“No comment,” Andy replied. “Why were you outside by the way?”

“Looking for a quantum filament actually.”

“On Earth?”

“Of course. I can extract it from a diciferous nodule.”

“I don’t really want to know what that is,” Andy replied,

“Of course you don’t. Your puny mind has no comprehension of such things.”

Andy was a little miffed at the accusation but knew he was no physicist. Jerrix reached out to the south statue and pulled a fork shaped device out.

“Stand there a second.”

As the device waived at him Jerrix studied the readout.

“Oh no. I cannot take you with me.”

Now Andy was angry. He grabbed the collar of the cloak and lifted the animal up.

“Why not?”

“Violence has no place here Andy. Truth is your quantum signature is way off. If I were to take you the space-time cortex would disintegrate.”

“In plain language?”

“Eh, boom. Now put me down.”

Andy dropped him and Jerrix walked back towards the exit.

“Where are you going now?”

“Time waits for no cat you know.”

“Or men,” Andy said indignantly.
---
Outside the invisible craft, Jerrix pointed his device until he got a proper signal.

“This way friend. Keep close. Can’t have you eaten.”

“Perhaps not but you intend leaving me behind.”

“I will do such thing my boy. Trust me.” Then he stopped suddenly. “Tarra trusted me.”

“Who is she?” Andy asked.

“We travelled together. Very nice little girl but that’s another story.”

“You probably kidnapped her,” Andy spat back.

Jerrix spun round angrily.

“I did no such thing. She decided to stick around. I miss her you know.”

“We had better find your thing,” Andy reminded him.

“Of course. Not much further now.”

They cleared the plants and found themselves staring at a waterfall. Behind the wet rocks lay what Jerrix sought.

“Well. Just have to get wet then,” the cat muttered.

Andy placed a firm hand upon his shoulder.

“It may not be safe. What about spiders?”

Jerrix thought for a second. Then he smiled.

“You had better go first then.”

Andy crept forward as Jerrix followed close behind. As they entered the water, he stared into the darkness.

“I can’t see anything dangerous,” Andy whispered.

“Problem with human eyes is they are fairly poor substitutes for my own.”

“Then check yourself mate.”

Jerrix crept forward and scanned the interior.

“It’s empty. Come on in.”

Andy followed the cat into the mouth of a small cavern. He saw Jerrix waive the device across the near wall until he stopped.

“Perfect.”

Andy could only see glistening rocks as the cat fingered his device. Moments later, he smiled.

“We have enough now. I simply inject these filaments into the drive system and I’m off.”

A screeching ended the conversation.

“What the devil is that?” Andy asked.

“Just a pterosaur my boy. No need to panic.”

“As long as it flies off.”

“It probably will my boy. Now, back to the ship.”

As they stepped outside, two creatures were waiting for them. 
---
Andy stared at the huge star shaped beings. They hovered about six feet from ground level and appeared to be blind.

“What are those?” he asked slowly.

“I met those on Helos six a while back. They are sentient machines bent on conquest.”

“I take it we are stuffed?”

Jerrix stepped forward.

“No such thing in my book,” he said. “You must know me,” he called
out.

“We know you Jerrix Tau. You will surrender now or die where you stand.”

“Typical,” the cat exclaimed. “Earth is outside your sphere. What are you doing here?”

“We traced your craft to this planet. When you die, we shall take it.”

“Killing me is harder than you think,” Jerrix replied. “Surrender? You can go to hell.”

Andy was now very afraid and he said nervously, “Hold on Jerrix.
Don’t antagonise them.”

A paw lashed out and Andy was thrown to the ground badly stunned.
The cat fiddled with his device and pointed it at his enemies. Almost at once, they exploded, showering the area with debris. He brought his paw down muttering to himself, “That will confuse the palaeontologists.”

Then he slowly turned and strode towards his dazed friend.

“Don’t you ever interrupt when I am working.”

“Okay,” Andy replied sitting up. “You pack some punch. What happened?”

“I reset their nemorax matrix. Short circuit to you. Now get to your feet.”

Andy did so and followed the traveller back to his craft where he reinserted the device.

“That should do it Andy. I can leave now.”

“You’re leaving me after all.”

Jerrix turned, “Oh no my boy. I only have to reset the time projector and you are off.”

Andy watched him walking to the west statue and look at him.

“Are you ready?”

“Never more so Jerrix. Where will I end up though?”

“Certainly not in Norwich I’m afraid. Probably in a war torn trench. Take care now.”

“Wait a second. What do you mean?”

As his surroundings dissolved he heard himself shouting, “Jerrix!”

He seemed to fall forever until he landed face down in a sea of mud.

Ta..Other things on mind...

Ta my dear.."My writing is my life. My poetry is my life. When my life ends, as it must soon do, who will remember me?"

We are but a fly in the scheme of things. Even me.

Andy had been trudging for about three hours when the air began to gently vibrate. He looked around for the cause and saw a small winged craft approaching from the distant hills. Hills that did not seem to get any closer.

He watched as it deployed landing struts before descending slowly. Andy braced himself for the coming encounter.

“Take me to your leader,” he mumbled.

Moments later, a short ramp deployed and two figures descended to the desert. They were at least humanoid. He heard one of them call loudly, “Andy. Thank God that you are safe.”

This acknowledgement of his name puzzled him. He had never seen them before.

“You know me?” he said as they approached.

“Of course we know you.”

Andy saw that they were dressed as he. Only the golden hair and young faces were different.

“I’m Tom and this is James. Come on. Within the hour you will fry.”

They grabbed his arms and dragged him towards the craft where he was deposited upon a leather chair. He glanced around at the simplistic control room as the door closed.

“Where is your medic centre?” he asked.

Tom glanced at him.

“This is a scout craft as you well know. You been drinking from that wine lake?”

Andy coughed.

“I may have indulged.”

James shook his head as Tom pulled the joystick back to gain height.

“Where exactly is this place?” Andy asked.

“The Antigas colony of course. What’s wrong with you?”

“I really don’t know,” Andy replied. “Everything seems garbled.”

“Probably the wine,” Tom commented.

Andy glanced at the view screen and he saw the hills passing underneath. Then he saw an astonishing sight. Just ahead, lay a huge domed city, the dome parting as the craft descended.

He watched as they settled down gently and the drive system was deactivated.

“Can I get up now?”

“You had better follow us to the medic centre,” James told him. “You need looking at.”

They led Andy into what looked like a large dentists. Sitting upon the reclining chair, he saw a robotic figure approaching. With a harsh voice, the machine asked, “What seems to be the trouble?”

“He was lost in the desert. Probably drank that wine too.”

“I see,” the machine replied. Andy saw the arms extend and a syringe appear. Before he could react, the needle jabbed his left arm.

“Ouch, that hurt.”

“It was meant to,” the machine replied. “Next time be more careful.
I have ill patients to attend to. Now get out of here.”

Andy left the chair and followed his colleagues into the main thoroughfare. The city was fairly buzzing with activity. Moving pavements made getting around an easy and relaxing affair.

“I have to get home,” he muttered.

“State block six,” Tom said. He pointed to one of the descending paths and said, “Just mention your address. It will stop there. We will see you later.”

As they walked towards one of the transport systems, Andy stepped onto the descending path and garbled, “State room six please.”

The path moved down at a rather sedate pace. He gazed at a huge area below filled with shops, offices and cafes. The whole place looked quite organised. If a little futuristic.

The path glided over this panorama and swung to the left before approaching a block of apartments. Then it gently stopped and he stepped off. Before him was a plain door with a number six upon the door.

He checked his pockets for a key but could not find one.

“Oh that’s just rich,” he complained. “Locked out.”

A fine electronic voice replied, “Identity confirmed.”

The door slid open and he entered what looked like a shoebox. The ceiling was around six foot and the length around fifteen. It was dominated by a single dark bed that he scrambled onto.

The door slid shut and he gazed upward. There was no sign of a cooker, loo or entertainment.

“How does one get fed around here?”

The same pleasant voice replied, “The cafe Andy. Would you like the news?”

“I would not mind. Might explain where I am.”

“You need information Andy.”

He was about to answer when a screen appeared above his eyes as if from nowhere. He stared at the advanced hologram in some shock.

“Eh, current location?”

“State room six, Antigas colony.”

“How long have I been stationed here?”

“Three years twenty-four days.”

“I need to know my profession?”

“Infantry group four.”

“I’m a soldier?”

The electronic voice replied at once.

“Yes. Last action, area two.”

“And where is that when it’s at home?”

“The desert region Andy. Are you well?”

“I seem to be losing my mind.”

A warm light illuminated him and the voice said,”Carrying out
evaluation. You are well.”

“That,” Andy said. “Is a matter of opinion?”

“Your next duty roster begins in four hours. You must sleep.”

“Not before you tell me what happened to Norwich.”

There was a pause.

“Norwich, quadrant 0, was destroyed in the solar year 365, 210.”

“I know I’m not on Earth,” Andy muttered. “I need a map.”

Upon the hologram a diagram of the solar system appeared. At the far edge a dot flashed.

“That I presume is Antigas?”

“Correct. Antigas, quadrant four.”

“At least we made it to the stars.”

The voice reminded him that sleep was required.

“Turn off the light then.”

He was plunged into darkness and rolled over to sleep. His feverish mind replayed the taxi journey one more time, and then he knew no more.
--
Andy experienced one of those twilight sleeps when you close your eyes for seconds only. The blaring light woke him up.

“Time already?”

“You must leave now,” the voice replied.

He heard the door open and scrambled out. He found himself in the company of Tom and James.

“I need some breakfast,” Andy complained.

“We are off to get some now,” James told him. “Feeling better now?”

“I think so.”

They took a pathway to a cafe where a robotic servant served food tablets. Andy was rather shocked but was soon informed these would provide more than enough nourishment.

“What is today’s agenda?” Andy asked.

“We have to patrol area one today. The mountainous region,” Tom replied.

After a short liquid drink that tasted of sugar, they left the cafe and soon arrived at the landing bay where the scout ship remained.
After boarding, Andy sat quietly as the craft lifted off and swung towards their target.

“Check out the weapons will you?” James asked.

Andy looked around. He had no idea where they were.

“That wall there,” Tom pointed. “Get a grip will you.”

He walked over and touched a panel, which promptly slid back. Inside he saw three large weapons that looked fairly lethal.

He pulled one out and casually looked it over.

“Seem fine to me.”

“Great. We are coming into land,” James replied.

After touchdown, they walked down the ramp and weapons ready they walked off.

Andy saw mountain tops towering on his left and a sheer drop to an inland sea to his right. The weapon vibrated reassuringly though he kept his fingers off the trigger.

“We have to be careful,” James advised. “Creepos may be near.”

Andy felt foolish for asking the obvious.

“What are Creepos?”

His companions looked puzzled.

“Don’t worry Andy. You’ll spot them easily enough.”

They followed the open track further as the heat slowly rose. He
scanned the dark volcanic ground and noticed that a few peaks were
smoking. A heavy scent of sulphur filled the air.

This was certainly no place to be.

They had reached a large rocky outcrop when a boulder was dislodged, and rumbled towards them.

“Look out!” Tom screamed as it hurtled down.

Andy threw himself aside as the boulder bounced off the track and plunged towards the waiting sea. Almost at once, a dark mountainous shape reared into view and a thick tentacle waived in their direction.

James and Tom opened up at once as Andy scrambled to his knees. He aimed at the hideous spiderlike creature and pulled the trigger but nothing happened.

As laser bolts struck, the creature lumbered on and James yelled, “We need your weapon to work mate.”

Andy tried again but it was useless.

“The damn thing’s jammed.”

“Fall back,” Tom called out and his colleagues turned to run. As Andy followed, a hairy tentacle swiped him sideways and tossed him into thin air and over the edge.

He screamed as the weapon fell from his grip and the sea approached at breakneck speed. He closed his eyes as the impact came, plunging him painfully deep.

When the descent stopped, he clawed his way to the surface and reached it just in time. Gasping deeply he trod water as he looked around in surprise.

The volcanic mountains had gone. Around him, lush foliage grew in thick profusion. He completed a circle, convincing himself this was a small lake. He was about to swim to the bank when a loud overhead shrill caught his attention.

Looking up he saw the horrifying sight of a pterosaur swooping towards him. The brown creature, with huge frail wings, swooped down with beak wide open.

I existed for a fleeting moment within the vastness of time.
A fly, an insignificant speck upon this dung heap that we call Earth.
They called me mortal once. No more it seems.
Those days are long gone.

A distant memory for me.
A tiny fragment that even I cannot hold onto.
As if I want to remember that sad and lonely time.
A memory that exists only to destroy.

How I fought to the very end, clinging on madly to that drifting flotsam.
How I worried myself sick, until there was nothing more to worry about.
A world of pain and sublime terror I endured then.
A world that turned black until I woke once more.

A strange waking that.
Such a strong memory even now.
I rose as I always did, trotting off to the loo to wash and relieve myself.
The silence as usual.

It was the mirror that warned me.
I saw the rear blue wall and stared hard.
I even poked at the glass in surprise.
Then I realised, I had gone.

I trotted back and saw myself.
At least it looked like me.
Still, cold and very dead.
I shook my head and laughed.

“What was all the fuss about?”
I stared at the detritus of my life then.
I heard the meow of my loving cat.
She was deep in grief now.

The only one who cried over me.
I popped downstairs and created mayhem.
They saw the tv trashed and my frantic message
The cat was rescued and my corpse discovered.

I watched the police arrive, sudden death you see.
Then I watched the flat being cleared of my possessions.
After a year had past a new couple arrived.
Doomed like me.

I smiled, wished them luck and faded into history.
Never to return.
My moment on the stage was over.
I had taken my final bow.

That fleeting moment, like the life of that fly,
was at last over.

When the darkness cleared, Jerrix heard Tarra’s voice calling him.

“Are you awake yet?”

He opened his eyes slowly and saw a thick belt around his waist. He quickly realised that they were tied to a gurney.

“I seem to be okay. Must be getting old. What a fool I have been.”

“We seem to have walked into this,” Tarra said. “Who are they?”

“Racketeers I think. Must be using this planet to store their ill-gotten gains.”

A hidden door slid open, and a short thin bloke in a dark outfit walked in. Jerrix closed his eyes in disbelief.

“Well, well what do we have here? Jerrix Tau.”

“You know this vagabond?”

“I had him imprisoned for theft. How did you escape this time Praner?”

“Bribed the guards’ friend. After what you did to me, I have a good mind to throw you to the plant life.”

“You can leave Tarra out of this. She is innocent.”

“You are far from innocent though.” Praner paused. “We picked up the debris field. Did you survive that?”

“We were lucky enough,” Jerrix replied. “Two from two thousand.”

“So what do I do with you Jerrix? Any suggestions?”

“Try letting us go,” Tarra suggested.

“No can do. Your friend here would inform you know.”

“It’s my public duty.”

“You never change. We will have to take you with us, that’s all.”

“Back to your base I suppose.”

“I’ll keep you there until we figure out what to do with you.”

Jerrix sighed as the figure turned and marched back out.

“Seems we are stuck in here,” Tarra muttered.

“Only until we reach that base of theirs. Then perhaps we can do something.”

After a seemingly endless time, the craft reached its destination and the friends were released at gunpoint.

“Try anything and it is curtains,” Praner warned.

With arms raised, they left the craft and found themselves inside a landing bay. Three other similar craft were parked alongside. Jerrix looked up and noted the open roof. A weapon tip pushed him forward.

They were manhandled into a lift and taken down one level, before being thrown into a small cell. Before the door slid shut, Praner smiled.

“This will keep you both on ice for a while.”

The door closed and they gazed upon the white painted blank walls.

Jerrix saw Tarra looking around.

“No bed. Not even an air vent. We will suffocate in here.”

Jerrix placed his fluffy ear against the door and listened.

“I think our captors have gone.”

“So what?” Tarra shot back. “We can never leave. It is finished.”

Jerrix turned and asked calmly, “when did you know me to give up?”

She pointed to the door.

“That device of yours does not work on those doors. We are trapped.”

“You think so Tarra? Let me have that Kirby grip of yours.”

Looking puzzled, she handed it over and watched as he knelt at the door. He was muttering to himself as usual.

“If I can push this far enough I might just sever the beam.”

She watched him inserting the Kirby grip into the crack and gently push. The door opened with a sudden whoosh and he looked out.

“Now come on. We have one chance at this.”

Handing the plastic back he dashed towards the lift and punched in the correct floor. He had expected alarms to go off but all was silent as the door slid open.

They slipped out and spotted two armed guards pacing the floor. Jerrix pulled out his device and reset it. Then he pointed and fired. The guards collapsed and they dashed to a scout craft.

“Don’t worry about them Tarra. It’s only a mild coma.”

He dashed up the ramp and activated the retraction before entering the flight deck.

“Strap yourself in, this may be bumpy.”

Only then did claxons sound as the cat brought the ship to life. He hauled the joystick back and guided the craft upwards and into the open air. Once clear, he fired the boosters and aimed for the outer darkness of space.

“Back to the space port?” Tarra asked.

“Where else? I only hope they are smart enough not to follow.”

As they entered orbit, the craft pulled away until Jerrix spotted blips on the defence screen.

“They are coming after us. Damn fools.”

He activated thrusters and pulled the stick hard over. Tarra felt her stomach pull as the scout craft swung around until it faced the oncoming vehicles.

“Activating laser bolts,” Jerrix muttered.

He took aim and unleashed a storm upon his enemies. One of the craft exploded as the two others peeled off.

Jerrix flew theirs straight through, dive-bombing into the atmosphere.

“What are you doing?”

“Taking out their base Tarra. This time Praner will not escape.”

The craft dived out of the clouds and unleashed bolts at the open roof. As explosions tore the base apart, the craft peeled off, heading back into space.

When they broke through the atmospheric lid, they found themselves under heavy fire. Jerrix rolled the craft, swinging away before aligning once more. Then he let rip, tearing apart the second antagonist.

The third opened up, bolts shooting overhead as the craft dived. Then he turned again and fired a further salvo, until the enemy vehicle detonated.

“Now we go home.”

Tarra remained silent with shock. She had never seen him like this and to be honest, did not like it.

Jerrix took the craft into deep space as they headed homewards. Hours later, they landed at the spaceport and reported the loss of PX 116 to the authorities. A short stroll returned them to his waiting ship.

Tarra watched her friend activate the controls that would take them home in silence. The four cat statues stood at the cardinal points, as silent as she. He pulled the lever located behind the north one and the galactic image appeared over the waist high metallic dome.

Two lights were flashing, as he walked to the east statue and hauled the lever down. They transferred at once. She watched as he opened a drawer, handing back her old clothes.

She took them and nodded.

As she walked out his voice called back, “don’t forget me Tarra.”

The young girl turned slowly.

“Forget you Jerrix Tau? No chance of that.”

He followed her out and watched as she stared at her mom’s hillside home with its wooden exterior.

“You could say a pin-point landing,” he muttered.

“Quite brilliant,” she said softly.

“What about your mom?”

“Oh, I have that worked out already. I needed solitude.”

Jerrix laughed as she looked at him.

“Tell you what Tarra. One day we shall meet again when our trips
together seem like a fairy tale.”

“Let’s do that,” she whispered.

He waived with a ginger paw and turning, wandered back inside. Tarra watched the faint green glow fade from view.

She saw her mom in the garden and ran towards her yelling. The startled woman looked up.

“Where have you been?”

“I needed time on my own mom. Back now though.”

She threw her arms around the grateful woman and closed her teary eyes.
---
Andy Sarson had been waiting at Norwich station for a while now. Driving through the manic traffic so that he could earn his daily crust. It had started to rain then, small droplets at first you understand. Then the heavens opened and a veritable monsoon broke over the Viking city.

He stared across at the familiar red building. Its exterior facade always reminded him of a great Victorian market, not the place for embarkation. He could imagine the great steam trains arriving here and truly wished he had lived then.

This was the twenty-first century of course. Old Britannia was at war again with her old ally the US. A different kind of war this time. No bombers pounding the city, leaving a trail of rubble in their wake. He was thankful for that.

The pounding rain hid the approach of two tall gents dressed in grey and black suits. He only noticed when a fist tapped the side window.
He leapt out and through the hail of water opened the passenger door. The gents were thankful.

“What a terrible night,” Andy said calmly. “Where to?”

“Postwick, and please hurry. We are late as it is.”

He kicked the car into gear and headed onto the main Yarmouth Road.
In his mirror, he saw the gents clearly. The first wore a yellow tie and grey suit while his companion wore a black suit and outrageous green tie. Both were clean-shaven. As most males were today.

He weaved the taxi through the rain and nightmarish traffic. Dodging parked cars was one thing, trying to avoid hitting speeding oncoming cars was quite another. Why they drove like maniacs he could never work out. Perhaps they had a death wish?

The taxi reached Thorpe village without incident. To the right, boats no longer used lined the far bank. Many of them converted to houseboats. Andy loved that quiet style of life. On their left stood the church with its clock tower. Gothic looking and rather spooky, he shivered as he always did.

At last, he reached the roundabout, which was quieter than normal. He avoided the left turn, which took him to the industrial estate as he did the second turnoff, which took him to Yarmouth. It was the third he was after.

The rain continued its hellish noise as he pulled into Oak Lane and slowed the vehicle. He was almost there.

The grey suited gent tapped his wet shoulder.

“This will do, we can walk the rest of the way.”

Andy stopped the vehicle on this quiet track outside Postwick village. He glanced at the metre, which told him ten pounds was due. Like everything else in life, petrol had rocketed.

“That will be...”
---
A sickening falling sensation suddenly enveloped him. The familiar taxi seemed to fade and become blurry until his vision was restored.
He was standing in an endless sea of golden sand. He gazed at the dark green sky and saw an impossible sight. High in the heavens floated a small-ringed planet, the ring floating from pole to pole.
He was gobsmacked. Then he realised that his clothes had changed to. He was wearing a silver suit with a blue star emblazoned on the front. His leather shoes had been replaced with a pair of moon boots.
He scratched his head in absolute disbelief.

“Alien abduction simply does not happen in Norwich,” he muttered. “That’s just plain silly.”

He slapped his cheek twice, which hurt a lot. However, his surroundings remained stable. He also became aware of the terrible heat, which caused the air to shimmer in the near distance.

He swung around a full circle to get his bearings but only sand could be seen. He did see huge dunes just ahead and with nothing else to do, he headed straight for them.

As he trudged along, his boots sank up to ankle length in the soft sand, which made the going fairly tough, even for him. At last, he started climbing. Rivulets of sand ran down the dune as he ascended towards the domed summit. The exertion caused him to sweat buckets and he realised he needed to find water. As he reached the summit, a welcome sight appeared.

The silver glint of a huge lake. He stopped and simply stared. Dark hills lay in the distance beyond the sand’s reach and the lake looked quiet and tranquil. He stumbled down the dune, finally losing his footing completely. He rolled violently down the side until he finally came to a halt.

Stumbling to his feet, he wiped the sand off and struggled to the water’s edge. He stopped at once. Was it safe to drink? For all he knew it could be lethal to his human system. He argued with himself about the pros and cons. If he did not drink, he would die. That was fairly obvious. In the end, he had no choice.

Kneeling, he cupped his hands and slowly dipped them. Praying quietly. To his relief they did not burn nor char.

“It’s not acidic then.”

He raised his palms to his lips and dipped his tongue gingerly. The liquid tasted sweet, which surprised him. The flavour seemed to remind him of pale white wine, a favourite of his. Satisfied that it would not kill him, he drank his fill until he noticed a rather peculiar effect.

His head began to throb and his senses began to blur once more. He scrambled to his feet and gazed at the distant hills. He had to reach there, that much was certain. Somewhere on this strange world there had to be life.

Hopefully humanoid at least.

He trekked off, following the lake edge until reaching the northern perimeter. Then he scrambled over a low dune and once more battled through the gripping sand. He saw no sun but he was damn sure that the heat was rising. Looking back, he saw steam rising from the lake. It would soon boil.

Ta Tarra..Look out rear window..Jerrix may be waiting..Lucky you!

Tarra’s young life had changed quite a bit since she had met Jerrix Tau. A series of rather hair-raising adventures had quickly followed and this was her deserved reward.

She wiped back her straight yellow hair and adjusted the flowery dress that her strange companion had recently bought her.

Jerrix stood beside her, gazing at the sleek winged craft as it floated beside the launch gantry.

She glanced over at Jerrix, noting that the yellow cloak was still on the clean side. The gold throat clasp held it in place and he was
checking the deep pockets.

“For a cat you do take risks you know.”

“Only when I need to Tarra,” he replied looking at his ginger paws.

The fact that he stood on his hind legs at around five foot high,
had never surprised this plucky thirteen year old. She had taken it in her stride, which had surprised Jerrix.

“We had better pay for tickets,” he said, bright green eyes glinting.

Tarra was surprised to say the least.

“We are actually going on board?”

“Of course. After our recent exertions we both need a rest.”

“What about your ship though?”

He smiled, twitching his small black nose.

“It will be perfectly safe. I’m not daft enough to lose it you know.”

She followed him to a small booth where a short robotic teller was stationed.

“May I help you sir?” the teller asked.

“Two returns please.

The teller printed the tickets out and said, “That will be twenty jewels please.”

The cat reached into his cloak pockets and pulled out a small roll of notes. He carefully counted twenty and handed them over, before returning the excess to the cloak.

The teller took the money and handed over the tickets, which Jerrix handed to his human companion.

“Try not to lose them Tarra. Now shall we board?”

“I would love to.”

They reached the boarding ramp where the tickets were checked before being stamped.

Tarra gazed at the brightly lit interior as they stepped aboard.

“Did you note the cabin number?” Jerrix asked.

“Twenty-two beta, wherever that is.”

Within the first vast corridor, Jerrix studied a plan of the craft that was bonded to the near wall.

“Next deck up. I suggest we check it out before we go exploring.”

“How long shall we be here?” Tarra asked.

“Only two days, promise. This is a round trip.”

They followed the arrows until they came to a flight of spiral stairs and Tarra followed him up.

“You would think they would have lifts.” Tarra said.

“Stop complaining. What do you think feet are for? They reached the next deck and stepped into a brightly lit corridor. It was fairly cramped with rows of identical brown doors on either side. Jerrix counted the numbers until they found their cabin.

“I need the ticket again,” Jerrix told her. “Otherwise we don’t get in.”

“That explains the stamp,” she replied handing it over.

Jerrix swiped it across the door fob and it slid back with a swoosh. They quickly entered and Tarra gazed in wonder. A huge circular window upon the rear wall presented them with a view of interstellar space.

“Wow,” she exclaimed walking towards it.

“Quintex glass,” the cat told her. “In space it needs to be.”

Tarra gazed into the cold, hostile environment before turning her attention to the actual room. It was fairly large of course. Bunk beds were bolted to the right wall, and near the left a dressing table and mirror stood ready to be used.

Jerrix looked at his smart reflection and smoothed down his fur.

“As attractive as ever,” he commented.

Tarra opened the wall unit, which was empty apart from metallic coat hangers.

“Fairly snazzy,” she said as he turned.

“I am certainly pleased. Now shall we explore?”

“I would love too.”

Back in the corridor, he led her back to the spiral stairs and began hiking upwards. They had climbed two decks when the stairs stopped and they walked into a huge mezzanine.

Robotic figures walked around the tables where passengers were beginning to sit. The entire rear wall looked out into space light music played softly.

“Choose a seat,” Jerrix suggested.

“Eh...How about that one,” she said pointing.

“Looks fair to me. Next to the window too.”

They took their table and gazed at the dark panorama as one of the robotic servers approached.

“Drinks mam?”

“Do you have orange?”

Jerrix coughed.

“Two rubins please.”

The server moved off to collect the order.

“No orange?”

The cat grinned.

“I think you will be surprised when the drinks arrived.”

The server returned and handed over two yellow glasses that contained orange liquid. Tarra tried it, smiling.

“Rubins is the galactic name for your oranges,” he explained.

She put the glass down and stared at the obvious luxury of the craft.

“I have never been in such a posh place,” she admitted.

“First time for everything,” he replied. “This craft is technically a hopper. Owned by Goldly Corps you know.”

“The company must be loaded.”

“Oh they are Tarra. Hopping between systems is a lucrative business.”

She sensed a gentle movement as the craft eased away from the launch gantry. A pleasant voice announced.

“We are departing the space port ladies and gents. Shortly we shall achieve sub stand velocity for our trip to Selona Four.”

“Can we get off there and take a look,” Tarra asked.

“If you want to,” Jerrix replied. Selona 4 is known as a pleasure world. You may enjoy yourself there.”

She sensed the craft gaining speed as it moved through the silent vacuum.

Upon the flight deck, the officers monitored their progress with great care. Out here, there was no real threat of course. It was simply standard practice. The engineer watched the readouts carefully as a temperature dial began to rise.

“Port thrusters are running hot sir.”

“Keep an eye on it,” the captain replied. “That is the third time this month.”

“That refit should have cleaned up the problem,” the engineer told him.

“Let’s hope they weren’t cutting corners,” the captain replied.

The dial rose higher as the food arrived in the mezzanine.

“I hope you like that fish tart you chose,” Jerrix said as the food arrived.

Tarra glance down at the crusted pie and cut into it. Inside she saw lumps of green flesh and sniffed carefully.

“Smells okay.”

Jerrix tucked into his own food, a plateful of veg, when he detected something strange.

“The thrusters pitch has changed.”

Tarra glanced up.

“Perhaps they want to miss something.”

The cat seemed to glare.

“There are no icebergs out here.”

He stopped chewing and listened carefully, and called a server across.

“Is there a problem?” he asked.

“Not that I‘m aware of sir.”

“We are at low thrust,” Jerrix replied.

“Perhaps the engineer is running tests sir.”

“I suppose you are right,” the cat replied.

He started chewing again as Tarra tucked into her fish tart.

“You always look for trouble,” she commented.

“Just call me suspicious. It’s a trait of mine.”

Back on the flight deck, nerves were taught. Despite reducing the power to the port thrusters, the temperature continued to rise.

“Shut it down engineer. We’ll redirect to Selona One and use the
gravity well to flip back to space port.”

The engineer threw the switch and the thrusters went dead. The hopper continued on level trim as the pilots changed the flight path.

A sudden deep rumble was followed by a crump. The sound of rendering metal was heard as the port wing disintegrated. Passengers and crew felt the effects instantly. 

The craft lurched violently to port, throwing everyone in that direction. In the mezzanine, Tarra and Jerrix were thrown against the toughened glass.

“What’s happening Jerrix?”

“We seem to have lost the port wing,” he replied as the bloody red atmosphere of a planet came into view. Jerrix stared in absolute horror.

“The captain is trying to land on an H-class planet. He cannot do that.”

“H?”

“H for hostile Tarra.”

He looked around frantically as the atmosphere drew closer. Then he pointed to the table supports.

“I’ll lift you up. Then pull yourself up.”

As she was raised, Tarra pulled herself onto the top side of the table as Jerrix joined her. They stared up towards the far wall.

“We have to get as far away from that glass as possible,” he advised. “Now, up to the next table.”

He hauled her up as the craft shook and throbbed loudly.

“That is re-entry Tarra. Now move yourself.”

As she hauled upwards, the cat looked down and saw reddish clouds sweeping by. The craft was screaming down upon its side. A sickening impact was unavoidable.

He hauled himself beside her as the clouds parted, and yellow trees came promptly into view. They both stared as the plant life rushed up to meet them.

A terrible crunch ripped through the hopper as it skimmed the treetops. The toughened glass shattered at once and passengers were sucked out of the gaping wound. The sidewall disintegrated soon after. Screaming loudly, Tarra and Jerrix were tossed out as the craft swung level.

Jerrix opened his eyes slowly. His friend knelt beside him dabbing his forehead with water.

“How long have I been out?”

“Around two hours. The ship’s gone I’m afraid. We have six survivors.”

Jerrix was aghast.

“Out of two-thousand?”

“Yes. I’m surprised anyone made it.”

The cat drew the cloth away and saw the blood. He sat up slowly as his head swam.

“The cut is pretty deep,” Tarra told him.

He looked at her carefully and saw she had escaped unscathed. They were sitting on crushed bracken with the burning hulk in the far distance.

He reached to his throat and felt the golden throat clasp safely in place.

“At least you can summon the ship,” she said.

“We are too far away for that. This time we are on our own.”

“Oh great. This is the last time I take a trip with you.”

He shook his furry head and sighed.

“I had no idea this would happen. I just hope a distress signal was sent.”

Tarra cast her eyes around at the seemingly peaceful surroundings. Only the red sky looked ominous.

“Nothing hostile about this place Jerrix.”

“I wish you were right but I’m afraid not. Staying alive will be rather a headache.”

They climbed to their feet as the cat screwed his eyes.

“You said six survived. Where are the missing four?”

“Over in that direction. By the lake.”

“We had better join them then. Come on.”

They wandered across the damaged landscape until the shores of the lake came into view. The others were sitting together. As they approached, the survivors turned their heads.

“Glad to see you up and about sir,” a grey haired gent said.

Jerrix saw the brown uniform and the engineering flashes.

“Thanks. You’re the only officer?”

“Afraid so sir. Damn lucky too.”

Jerrix saw that the remainder were passengers like themselves.

“What happened?”

“Our port thrusters let loose sir, tearing the wing off. We had intended to swing around Salona One, but came down instead.”

“Did you send a distress signal?” Tarra asked.

“There was no time,” the engineer replied. “Don’t worry though. Once
they realise we are missing, they’ll come looking.”

“I suggest we just wait for them,” a tall blonde woman replied.

“Anyone else endorse that view?” Jerrix asked.

Everyone nodded.

“This is a class H planet,” he explained. “Sitting on our bottoms is
waiting to be eaten.”

“Are you sure sir?” the engineer asked.

“Absolutely. We need to move I am afraid.”

“Surely,” a thin, lanky individual said. “If we move the search party will miss us.”

“It is a calculated risk sir,” Jerrix said. “However, we have no choice.”

He turned to Tarra.

“Coming with me?”

“I’m sticking to you like glue.”

She followed him into the surrounding plants and toward what looked like a small hill.

The incline was rather easy and shortly thereafter, they reached the summit. Beneath them lay the lake and the desperate passengers.

“We should be fairly safe here,” Jerrix commented. “I wish they had followed us though.”

“It was their choice Jerrix. You can’t make them.”

“I suppose you are right. You would think the engineer would have backed me.”

“Perhaps he does not know as much as you,” Tarra replied.

“As an officer he should. If only the captain had survived.”

“What kind of threats do we face then?” she asked.

“Killer plants are the main ones. That is why there are no animal sounds here. When darkness arrives they won’t stand a chance.”

Darkness comes quickly on Selona One. As the stars began to appear in the sky, loud rustling and scraping sounds started to fill the air.

Upon their hill, Jerrix and Tarra sat around a small fire ignited by the cat’s fork like device that he always carried in one of his cloak pockets.

Below them, the survivors huddled, staring into the darkness. Wondering what those sounds could mean.

They did not see the advancing threat. As the unnerving sounds approached, a short male stood up.

“That does not sound safe to me.”

“Sit yourself down,” the engineer suggested.

“Perhaps it’s the search party?” the blonde woman suggested.

“I don’t expect them till late tomorrow,” the engineer told her.”

A sudden crash brought them all to their feet, as the trees nearest them were pushed apart.

“What the hell was that?” the short male asked.

“Where did that Jerrix go to?” the blonde woman asked.

“I have no...”

The engineer did not finish that statement.

Without warning, a yellow tentacle wrapped around his waist, dragging him away. The three remaining tried to run but were dragged off in their turn.

Upon their hill, Tarra heard the screams and the closing silence. She felt helpless of course. Jerrix placed a reassuring paw upon her shoulder.

“I am sure their suffering was short,” he whispered.

“Our turn then?”

“On this hill we are safe. They hunt on the plains. When the search team arrives, we will be found.”

As the plants rustled, Jerrix felt a gentle breeze from the night sky and looking up, saw three lights approaching from the west. They flew in a v formation, suggesting the shape of the approaching craft.

“I wonder what that is?” Jerrix asked, pointing up,

As Tarra looked, her young face lit up.

“What a time to be rescued. Why not minutes earlier?”

“Calm down,” he told her. “Where is it landing?”

They watched the lights descending quickly and heading east. As it approached, a loud roar was heard.

“We will check it out in the morning Tarra. A rescue team won’t leave their craft till then.”

“I suppose we should be grateful,” she said. “I just feel sick.”

“That is a strange thing from you,” Jerrix commented. “Are you alright.”

She hung her head sadly.

“A couple of thousand died today Jerrix. A happy space cruise turned to terror.”

“On your planet they call it Sods Law. I put it down to fate.”

“I have only just realised how dangerous this life really is.”

“I think I understand,” he told her. “You want to return home.”

“At least I’m safe there. I think it is time. Mom must be pulling her hair out.”

“According to my calculations, you have been away a few days at most. How will you explain it?”

“Oh I’ll think of something,” she replied.

“I know you will,” he said lying down. “We should sleep now. We get rescued in the morning.”

Tarra saw his green eyes close and lay beside him.

“Goodnight Jerrix.”

There was no reply. Her friend was sound asleep.

It was the rain that woke Tarra. It came down heavily soaking them both.

“Some wake up call,” Jerrix said. “Follow me Tarra, we have to find that craft.”

They dashed down the hill and into the alien foliage struggling towards the lake. They saw the skid marks that marked the violence and hurried past.

Tarra hoped the rescuers were still there. Perhaps you know, seeing nothing, they had moved on.

Thick bracken blocked their way as they moved deeper, until the sound of activity could be heard.

“We are nearly there,” Jerrix said excitedly.

“I’m certainly ready to leave.”

They broke through into a clearing where a sleek scout craft stood silently upon its landing struts.

“Hey!” Tarra shouted. “We are here you know.”

A side door slid back and a bearded figure followed the descending ramp. As they drew closer, they noticed he was around five foot, burly, and wearing a coal black outfit.

Out of breath now, the two friends came to a stop, as the silent figure pulled out a weapon and cut them down.

Tarra opened her eyes and saw Jerrix kneeling over her.

“How are you feeling?”

“My teeth are sore.”

He rubbed his own and said, “So are mine.”

He helped her up.

“I thought you were dead.”

Jerrix shook his furry head.

“We went through an advanced matter transmitter that’s all.”

She looked around the huge pale room where other Helosians were appearing.

“I see we are prisoners again.”

He smiled.

“Seems like it my dear.”

“Did you find anything out with your scanner?”

“They are powered by a nemorax matrix. Now my dear, if I could get to the satellite relay station I could at least give them a headache.”

“We have to get out of here first,” Tarra reminded him.

As she spoke, the president appeared and Jerrix said, “Well, well.”

He walked towards him as the room filled up.

“So they got you too Jerrix.”

“They did indeed sir. How about the alert?”

“I didn’t have time. Where are we?”

“Some kind of orbital prison ship. Usually matter transmission is a two way process. However, it may not be in this case,” Jerrix explained.

“Does this craft have a flight deck?” Tarra asked.

“I doubt it my dear. Probably automated and sentient.”

Without warning, the ambassador appeared and hovered towards them.
The president stood his ground as people backed away.

“This is an act of war sir.”

“We only need your cooperation Mr President. Surely you can see no point in resisting.”

“We will fight you to the last man sir.”

“With your puny weapons sir? They are useless.”

“What is your real purpose?” Jerrix asked.

“Our empire is expanding. Dolomite will ensure that continues.”

“I see. Plan to mine it yourselves?”

“Our prisoners will do that for us. Under coercion if necessary.”

“Even then they will refuse,” the president promised.

“Then they will starve sir. When that becomes clear, they will cooperate.”

“He has a point,” Tarra said.

“He certainly does,” the president replied.

“We will let you think about it before speaking again sir.”

The ambassador vanished and the captives calmed down.

“Seems rather hopeless,” the president muttered.

“It is never hopeless sir. Even at your bleakest hour.”

“We can’t get out of here,” the president pointed out.

Jerrix pulled his fork like device from his deep cloak pocket and fiddled with it.

“If I can reset this I may be able to induce a short coma.”

“How will that help?” the president asked.

“If they think we are dead they may send us back.”

“That’s brilliant sir.”

“Eh Jerrix,” Tarra said. “They could eject us into space.”

“Calculated risk but I’m ready if you are.”

“Go ahead,” the president replied.

Jerrix twisted the dial and everyone collapsed immediately.
Tarra found herself in a dark, silent world. It felt warm and peaceful. No thoughts drifted through her mind.
 
When Tarra woke, it was still dark. Her human eyes took time to adjust.

“It must be night,” she muttered.

“It certainly is,” a familiar voice replied.

“Where are we?”

Jerrix helped her up and said, “Back at the bizarre my dear. It seems everyone was returned to their point of departure.”

“We had better find this satellite relay station of yours,” Tarra told him.

“We had better go this way then,” he replied.

She followed him out of the bizarre and across the adjacent square until they reached the entrance of a subway station. Descending the steps, she found herself looking at a platform.

“They have tube trains?”

“Kind of. These use magnetic lift. We have to eh, follow the track.”

“Won’t that be dangerous?” she asked.

“See that large central rail?”

“I get the picture,” Tarra said. “Do not touch.”

“Exactly. Now we have to go.”

He climbed down and helped her to join him. They began walking into a tunnel and the darkness thickened.

“Feels rather spooky,” she commented.

“Only to you my dear,” he replied. “I think it’s boring.”

They walked along until the tunnel branched and Jerrix took the right fork.

“Just a little further now.”

Minutes later, they reached another platform and he helped her climb out. After climbing the steps, she found herself in a park with a large white building at the centre of it. Upon its roof, a huge dish pointed skyward.

“It looks quiet,” Tarra said.

“Yes. The machines must have grabbed as many as possible.”

As they waited, one of them floated past and they had to duck behind the wall.

Once it was gone, they ran across the grass and entered the main entrance.

“Now we have to get to the control room,” he told her.

She followed him through a myriad of corridors until they entered a large room banked by whirring computers. Jerrix walked into a central booth and stared at the controls.

“I have to transmit a precise pulse and reset their nemorax matrix.”

“That will defeat them, yes?”

“I believe it will.”

Tarra was deeply worried.

“What happens to the prisoners?”

Jerrix glanced at her.

“I don’t think you are going to like this my dear.”

“You can’t kill them Jerrix. You are better than that.”

“Do you have a suggestion? I would like to hear it now. Helos faces
misery and slavery. I really have no option.”

“You said the prison ship is sentient, like their machines.”

“So what is your point?”

“Reason with it.”

He gave her a rather funny look and fiddled with the control console.

“This may expose us to detection but I’m about to open a link.”

Upon a screen, a series of letters and numbers had appeared.

“Are you talking to it?” she asked.

“I’m using galactic code. Far more advanced that your gibberish. Now we await a reply.”

Moments later the reply came.

“It wants the binary code.”

Tarra leaned forward and whispered into his ear, “then hand it over.”

Jerrix typed it in and seconds later, the reply came.

Jerrix studied the series of letters and numbers.

“It has agreed. It only wants time to inform the other prison ships before returning the people to the surface. Then they will move out of range.”

“How long will all that take?”

“About ten minutes. We have to wait I’m afraid.”

As they waited, Tarra wanted to know what he was expecting.

“You just wait and see my dear.

The ten minutes were up and Jerrix typed in the code before placing a paw over the transmit button.

“This will do it Tarra.”

“Then I suggest you get on with it.”

His paw fell and the pulse was beamed into space where it bounced off the satellites before returning to Helos. As it struck, the star shaped machines exploded, spreading shrapnel in all directions.

Within the relay station, Jerrix stood up and silently led her outside. As they walked across the park, Jerrix saw pieces of metal littering the grass.

“Off to see the president are we?”

“I think not my dear. Let’s just leave quietly.”

As they walked slowly away from the dark park, Jerrix noticed an undamaged machine lying silently upon the path. He stopped.

“You had better stay here my dear. That damn thing may still be active.”

He walked over gingerly and examined it closely.

“You think we are defeated Jerrix. Ha, you are wrong.”

“Mr Ambassador?”

“Your details have been transmitted and we will hunt you down like a dog.”

“Feel free, but you won’t be there.”

“I don’t need to be...”

Jerrix heard a low whirr and suddenly realised what was happening.

“He activated a double feedback loop, delaying the detonation!”

As if in slow motion, Tarra saw him turn and scream, “down!”

As she hit the deck, an explosion ripped the machine apart.

She glanced up and saw the debris scattered around a still form. She scrambled forward and saw him lying on his side breathing heavily.
She saw the gaping chest wound and suppressed a tragic scream.

Kneeling gently she rolled him over and cradled his furry head. His sea blue eyes were open and he spoke weakly.

“Seems the ambassador left a going away present.”

Tears rolled down her cheeks.

“You can’t die here Jerrix Tau. Not in this awful place.”

He coughed twice and smiled back.

“I have nine lives remember. Probably about to lose one.”

His eyelids closed and his body went limp. Tarra, crying openly now, lay his head down and stood up. As she said farewell to her strange furry friend, she saw the body fade until only a spectral image remained.

Moments later, the body returned to solidity. His eyes opened wide and he scrambled to his feet. She saw that the wound had gone. His eyes were now bright green and as for the ginger fur, well?

She felt giddy and Jerrix had to steady her.

“Feeling alright now?” he asked, wiping away the tears.

“I really thought you had gone.”

“Bio matrix reformation Tarra.”

“I see.”

He looked at her smiling.

“Actually you don’t but never mind. Where are we going by the way?”

Tarra suddenly saw her chance and plunged straight in.

“You said I could stay.”

He looked her up and down, rubbing the back of his furry head.

“Did I now. Well, I am a cat of my word you know.”

She embraced him hastily.

“Hold on Tarra. I’m a little fragile you know.”

She released him before kissing his sweet dark nose.

“Thank you.”

“Now Tarra. We have to be off before anything else happens.”

He pressed the throat clasp and moments later, she saw the green glow of the ship’s presence.

“Coming Tarra?” he asked cheekily.

“Why not. I have a galaxy to explore.”

They walked inside and promptly vanished.

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Okay..Ta for reading...

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When he reached the front line, he found the troopers pinned down by incoming fire. They were going nowhere slowly.

“I have called in airstrikes,” the commander told him.

“We should try talking commander. Think of the lives.”

“I always find force talks better sir.”

Jerrix thought rapidly.

“You spoke of a world at peace. How can that be achieved if both sides kill each other?”

“I am open to suggestions sir.”

“Then call off the airstrike and order your men to cease fire.”

“Are you kidding? We would be overrun.”

“Try it at least. Please, don’t make me beg.”

Reluctantly to be sure, the commander picked up his radio and gave the command. The sound of shooting faded into silence.

“It’s eh, your show sir.”

Jerrix climbed to his feet and walked between the warring parties. He saw the burning vehicles and sighed. In a deep voice quivering with emotion, he began.

“People of Sagittarius one. On this day, your government faced the threat of collapse under the blows of a hammer. Are you all so stupid, that you do not realise what you are doing?”

He paused for effect then continued.

“End this carnage now and talk. Restore the Fleons to their rightful homes. Grow together in peace and understanding.”

He waited for a response. Any response.

Then he saw movement. The enemy commander removed his helmet and walked towards him. As Jerrix looked back with pleading eyes, the rebel commander did likewise.

“We will talk,” the enemy said. “We will escort you to the president.”

The rebel commander nodded and turned to Jerrix.

“You should join me sir. This was your doing.”

The cat’s reply was rather surprising.

“I have to live with that knowledge all my life commander. Another cross to bear.”

With head bowed in silence, Jerrix walked away and left the negotiators to decide their own future.

Returning to the wounded pilot, he found him in pain but smiling.
The medic was still there and waiting for air recovery.

“Is it over sir?” the medic asked.

“Yes it is. I will return with you if I may.”

“That sounds like the medic ship now sir.”

As they watched, a small craft touched down and medics filed out.

The injured man lifted him onto a stretcher and put him inside the craft. As it lifted into the air, Jerrix looked back in anguish.

He watched the ground below whizz past as they headed back to the rebel bunker. After touching down, he escorted the pilot to the medic centre before seeking out Terra.

He found her inside the teleport bay where she ran and cuddled him warmly.

“The Fleons went wild when the news broke. I suppose we have a long walk to the ship now.”

Jerrix smiled at her.

“Do you think this clasp is purely for show my dear. If I press it so..”

Seconds later, she saw the familiar light green glow that indicated the craft’s presence.

“Shall we go Tarra?”

She smiled and joined him, promptly vanishing from sight.
--- 
“Where are we off to now?” Tarra asked as Jerrix watched the galactic grid.

“I’m eh taking you home my dear.”

“That is unfair. After all the help I have given you.”

He stared at her closely.

“Just one more trip then and home for you. Agree?”

“Oh all right.”

Jerrix reset the lever and the craft changed direction. Upon the floating grid, a light flashed.

“That is Helos 6 my dear. Should be peaceful there.”

“I jolly well hope so. I try to keep out of trouble.”

“Believe it or not. So do I.”

Tarra looked at herself and felt the thermal globe inside the pocket
of her housecoat. She pulled it out.

“You better have this back.”

He took the globe and placed it back inside the wall drawer. Then he saw the grid vanish and reset the lever.

“We have arrived my dear. We should be able to get you a new outfit.”

She turned and glared as he smiled sweetly. They stepped out and found themselves at the edge of a bizarre. The light green glow slowly vanished as the door slid shut.

“Market day,” Jerrix commented as he walked briskly to investigate.

“We don’t have any money,” she reminded him.

“Oh never mind my dear. I will sort it out.”

They approached the first brightly covered stall, which sold some pretty unusual clothing. The stallholder was on the short side with a bulbous body and four tentacles protruding, two on each side.
Above the body, two large eyes hung from stocks.

Tarra nearly laughed in surprise but managed to suppress it.

“May I help you sir. Something for the lady perhaps?”

“You mean me?” Tarra asked.

“I certainly do madam. We do stock twin garments you know.”

Jerrix picked through the smaller items and finally pulled out a flowery dress.

“What do you think Tarra? I think it is lovely.”

“It must be terribly expensive and I have nowhere to change.”

The stallholder pointed to a small booth as Jerrix handed the dress to her.

“Try it on. For me?”

She smiled and walked into the booth before closing the door.

“How much do you want?” Jerrix asked.

“It is a beautiful outfit sir. I cannot sell for less than sixteen crowns.”

The cat screwed its eyes.

“Twelve and no higher.”

The stallholder thought for a moment and finally accepted. Jerrix
reached into his cloak pocket and pulled out a single jewel note.

“I expect change.”

The stallholder took the money and returned eight crowns. As he did so, Tarra returned beaming from ear to ear.

“It is absolutely brilliant Jerrix. Have you paid?”

He walked towards her taking the nightclothes from her.

“Of course. Now, I suggest we return these to the ship before continuing our day.”

After placing the clothes in an empty drawer, they once more walked through the bizarre until Jerrix spotted something that took his eye.

“Have a look at this Tarra. Would you believe it?”

She looked at the peculiar object but could see nothing of interest.

“It is just an old stone jar. Put it down.”

He was handling it carefully and looking at the peculiar writing on the main body.

“Let those be warned who look inside, their friends and partners shall divide.”

“You can read that scribble?”

He turned sharply.

“How dare you my dear. This is ancient Tarmonic.”

The snake like stallholder agreed with him.

“That is correct sir. Very rare within this galaxy.”

“Oh I know it is sir. How did you get it?”

“I have my contacts sir.”

Tarra frowned.

“I bet it’s stolen.”

“We do not use such language here mam,” the stallholder explained.

“You are not thinking of buying that are you?”

“I really don’t know. One must be careful about fakes. Now let me see.”

He turned the jar over while keeping a grip on its lid. He gazed at the smooth base and nodded.

“Sorry sir but someone conned you. This is worthless junk.”

He put the jar down harshly and sauntered off, leaving a very disappointed man.

At the far stall, he stopped again.

“Fancy a drink. Helosic tea is wonderful.”

“If you think it is safe,” Tarra replied.

He ordered two and moments later two small cups were handed over.
Tarra gazed inside and saw a small drop of thick treacle.

“This is tea?”

As Jerrix took his drink he said, “Best in the galaxy.”

She followed his actions and found the creamy taste quite pleasant.

“What do you think?”

“Not like mom’s tea you know.”

He paid a crown and they walked further on.

“This is a nice place,” Tarra commented.

“As I said before my dear. Peaceful. We need a rest after our ordeal.”

She nudged him then.

“You were not serious about taking me home were you?”

He looked at her sadly.

“You cannot miss your schooling my dear. Your home is the right place. You don’t want to be stuck with me all your life.”

“I have never met anyone like you before,” she told him.

“Of course not,” he replied taking her arm. “There is no one else like me.”

Ahead of them, stood a tall white tower and the cat smiled.

“Ever tried freefall?”

“You mean jumping out of a plane?”

“I have done that my dear but not today eh. How about that?” he said pointing.

She saw the tower but had no idea what lay inside.

“This may be your last chance to try it,” he hinted.

“Let’s do it then Jerrix. Me and you against the universe.”

She took his arm and happily skipped towards the tower.

They rode the lift from the base to the apex, and stepping out found themselves standing on a huge semicircular platform with an open central core. Tarra walked to the edge and looking down suddenly stepped back.

“We can’t just step off,” she said. “Surely it’s not safe.”

“No worries my dear. Safe as houses. Want me to go first?”

“After you then.”

She watched him taking a short run and paws outstretched leapt into space. He started falling at once and she genuinely feared he would be smashed to bits at the bottom.

Then she noticed that he was slowing as he fell, his yellow cloak fluttering. She took a breath and simply followed his brave example.

The first sensation she experienced was rather sickening, her heart leapt into her mouth and her spine tingled as she fell at an ever-faster rate. Wind whistled past her face as the floor rushed to meet her.

Then she slowed and Tarra actually began to enjoy the experience. It gave her the weird sensation of flying and floating at the same time. She looked down and saw Jerrix land safely and her own body moved gracefully to left and right as she controlled her movements.

The ground moved closer and she moved her legs into position, in order to land with the grace of a young lady. Which she was after all. The landing was experienced as a gentle bump and Jerrix smiled at her.

“Can’t do that at home can you?”

“Of course not. That was really fun.”

“It’s also free my dear.”

They were en-route to the lift in order to have another go when Tarra saw two tall beings marching towards them. Each one was dressed in a smart golden uniform and carried a gold rod. She saw the dark eyes and rather small snout as they stopped.

“I see Helos 6 still employs guards,” Jerrix commented.

“The president bids your company sir.”

Jerrix glanced at Tarra.

“Better not keep the old boy waiting then.”

Tarra shook her poor young head wondering what they were getting into this time. Couldn’t they visit without intrigue?

She walked behind and noticed the huge sumptuous building they were being led to. Its golden walls and spiral roof reminded her of the ice creams she had enjoyed at home. Now so far away.

Within this edifice, the carpets were thick and multicoloured and a huge golden door stood before them. Standing to attention, two golden-attired guards opened it and they entered the presidential throne room.

Sitting upon a huge bluish throne sat a smallish creature with a tear shaped head, rather elongated body and two largish legs. His feet were green and scaled, each toe armed with a deadly looking talon. Upon this strange body, a brown robe hung loosely.

The guards withdrew and the President smiled and shook the paw of Jerrix.

“Nice to see you again my friend. How long has it been now?”

“Three long year’s sir.”

“You know each other?” Tarra asked.

“He helped with our trade negotiations and caught a tea smuggling
gang to boot,” the president explained.

Tarra scowled at her companion as the conversation continued.

“If you had let me know you were coming I would have greeted you in person.”

“You know me sir. Pop in and out quietly.”

“So as not to be noticed perhaps? Eh Jerrix?”

“It may surprise you to learn that I prefer the quiet life.”

The president turned to Tarra.

“Who is this delightful lady?”

Jerrix made the introductions.

“The last time he was here he travelled alone you know.”

“Did he now?” she replied.

Jerrix coughed softly.

“Were we summoned to indulge in small talk sir or is there a more
important subject you wish to broach?”

The president eyed him up and admitted the truth.

“The ambassador of Siphona will be coming soon to open diplomatic relations. I value your opinion.”

“Siphona sir? I am not aware of that system.”

“Must be refreshing for you then,” the president replied.

“Quite so sir. I find it strange being told of a system that I have no knowledge of.”

The main doors opened and a guard announced the ambassador’s arrival. As Tarra turned, she cowered and hid behind her brave companion. Both he and the president did not bat an eyelid.

A star shaped silver machine around three feet in circumference hovered gently towards them. As far as Tarra could see, it was blind.

“Mr President,” it said. “Must we talk in the presence of minions?”

“Mr Ambassador,” the President replied. “Jerrix is my most trusted advisor.”

The machine swivelled in his direction.

“I apologise sir.”

“So you should,” Jerrix replied.

“May we know more about you?” the president asked.

Swivelling back, the ambassador continued.

“We feel that opening relations with you will do us both good sir.”

“What do you mean by we?” Jerrix asked carefully.

“I was referring to my people.”

“I certainly hope for a prosperous alliance,” the president commented.

“As do we. Our scan of this world detected large deposits of dolomite, which is a rather rare mineral.”

“It is indeed sir. The ore drives our entire economy.”

At this point Jerrix interrupted.

“Your people scanned Helos 6?”

“We did indeed sir. We have travelled far to get here. Spending months in the darkness of interstellar space.”

Even the president picked up on that.

“Your people came here?”

“We are traveller’s sir?”

Jerrix pricked his ears up.

“Not scavengers then?”

Now the president interrupted.

“Where are your people sir?”

“Why in orbit of course.”

The president looked surprised.

“You have never encountered a race such as we I take it?” the ambassador asked.

“No never sir. Diplomatic relations normally leads to trade etc. It’s obvious we cannot trade with a travelling race.”

“Our needs sir, are small. We only wish to mine the mineral.”

“Only Helosians are allowed that privilege sir. I believe you understand the reasons,” the president told him.

“I regret your reply Mr President. I will of course report back to my people. You should expect a reply shortly.”

The star shaped machine gently floated out of the room, and the doors were closed.

“What did you make of that?” the president asked.

“Obviously sentient beings sir. Despite their metallic exterior. I conclude they have an ulterior motive for coming here.”

He stopped.

“Well,” the president said. “Spit it out.”

“They want to strip your world of its resources sir. Dolomite being the top priority.”

“I agree with your assessment Jerrix.”

“What’s so important about dolomite?” Tarra asked.

“It’s highly degradable my dear. As it does this it releases tremendous energy.”

“A bit like uranium then?”

“Not quite my dear. No radioactive emissions.”

“I see.”

Jerrix smiled at her then became very grave.

“You must place your defence forces on alert. In the meantime I have an urgent need to return to my ship.”

“You may go sir. I will do as you advise.”

Jerrix turned and grabbing Tarra by the hand hauled her out. Once outside he broke into a run.

“You’re not going to leave them in the lurch are you?” Tarra asked.

“Certainly not. You will find out soon what I am up to.”

They reached the bizarre and dashed through the shopping public before entering the ship. He ran to the south statue and pulled out a fork shaped device and seemed to fiddle with it.

“Is that a scanning device?” she asked.

He glanced up.

“That is what I love about you Tarra. So intelligent.”

He dashed out again when they saw a swarm of the star shaped beings diving from the bright sky. These were larger than the ambassador and about five foot in diameter.

The travellers stared up at the awful sight. Shoppers and tradesmen alike looked up in surprise as bolts exploded around them.

“Hit the deck,” Jerrix screamed as the bombardment commenced.

As the bolts struck their targets, the victims vanished.

“We have to return to the ship,” Tarra shouted.

“I agree with you my dear. Far too dangerous out here.”

He stood up and turned, coming face to face with one of the machines.

Tarra saw him waiving his device at the machine. She saw a bolt being fired and saw him disappear.

“Jerrix!”

She bolted straight for the killer, hoping to out manoeuvre it when it fired again. Tarra felt the impact and her violent world went dark.

Ta...

Morning came and Tarra woke to find everyone else wide-awake.
“You slept well,” Jerrix said.

“As well as in my own bed. I see the fire went out.”

“What do you expect my dear. Now that everyone is awake we should push on.”

He turned to Dorix.

“Are you ready sir?”

Dorix gazed across the endless land.

“As ever Jerrix.”

“Good show my boy. Now let us hurry.”

They marched on at a fair pace as the light blazed down. A breeze blew the dust from the ground and into their faces.

“How much further?” Tarra asked.

“Until we get off this plain,” Jerrix replied. “No wonder the Dogians take a ship.”

“How about asking the Fleons for help?” Tarra asked.

“Their fragile wings are only good for short hops I am afraid. Leg power is far safer. Believe me.”

As they wandered on, Jerrix stopped suddenly and held up his paw.

“Everyone halt.”

“What seems to be the problem?” Dorix asked.

“That ground ahead is unsafe. Looks like quicksand to me.”

“That is all we need,” Tarra moaned.

“I agree,” Jerrix replied. “Dorix? Are we on a flood plain by any chance?”

“There is no need to worry. It last poured here about a century ago.”

“Then how come that sand is wet?” Jerrix asked.

Dorix shook his head.

“This is very strange,” the cat said. “I would swear this has been
recently flooded.”

“How long ago?” Tarra asked.

“Judging by the dark sand around a week.”

“I think we should get out of this place,” she advised.

“I would agree but quicksand is lethal. Even for me.”

“How about crawling across?” she suggested.

He thought for a moment.

“Well it might work my dear. That would certainly spread the weight.”

He turned to Dorix.

“Your people will be alright but my friend and I will have to take
measures.”

Tarra and the cat went down in all fours and slowly crawled forwards. Their hands and paws sank a little way into the mud, but the idea seemed to be working.

The going was incredibly slow until they reached solid ground once more. They pressed on then; further across the plain towards goodness knows what.

A short time later, Dorix suddenly yelled out as he collapsed face down in the dusty earth.

Jerrix and Tarra turned to see him struggling onto his spindly legs and called Tarra called out, “you okay there?”

The Fleon nodded slowly and seemed to be looking down.

“What is the matter?” Jerrix asked.

“I seem to have stepped upon a mine,” Dorix replied in a musical tone.

“Then for goodness sake do not move,” the cat advised moving towards him.

He crept forward and kneeling softly, examined the offending object.
As everyone stared, Jerrix gently scraped some of the earth off and as he did so, more of the metallic object came into view.

“Should you be doing that?” Tarra asked.

“I do not think it is a land mine,” the cat whispered. “Dorix, kindly move yourself off.”

The Fleon did so slowly and the cat brushed more of the earth away. Then he brushed frantically until a large circular pad was revealed for all to see.

“What the blazes is it?” Dorix asked shaking slightly.

“It looks like a teleport pad to me,” the cat replied.

“Dorix looked at him blankly.

“We can use this to transport ourselves into Kennel City.”

“Are you sure?” Tarra asked sceptically.

“Pretty sure. Probably has not been used for years. Either that or we will be atomised. It is a calculated risk but we should take it.”

Dorix turned to his people and asked for their opinion. They all agreed without question.

“That settles it then,” the cat said. “Now I only have to locate the frequency modulator.”

As everyone watched, Jerrix started pressing the pad in various places until a small flap opened.

“Voila.”

He turned the dial two notches and closed it again before standing up. Smiling from ear he said cheerily, “everyone on please.”

Tarra however hung back.

“It will be alright child. Have I ever let you down?”

She looked at him for a second and stepped on.

With everyone ready, he stamped his foot hard and the world around them dissolved into darkness for moments only. When they next looked out, they found themselves standing upon a similar metallic pad within a large dull coloured room.

They were about to get their bearings when a troop of Dogians ran through a side door and levelled their weapons.

“Nobody move,” Jerrix advised.

The Fleons hung their heads as Tarra clung onto Jerrix in alarm.
Another Dogian joined his troops and barked, “Lower your weapons.”

The troopers did as asked.

The officer looked at the new arrivals with interest.

“Which one of you found our telepad?”

Jerrix raised his paw.

The officer walked over and eyed him carefully.

“You must be pretty intelligent. What were you doing there?”

Jerrix coughed.

“Trying to get here of course. We want our friends released at once.”

The officer looked at him a moment before saying, “we seem to be at cross purposes. We have no Fleons here.”

“That is a lie,” Jerrix insisted. “You must have them here.”

The officer raised his paw in a familiar gesture and the cat took it.

“I’m Jerrix by the way.”

“Commander Sala. You have nothing to fear from us.”

“You are rebels I take it?” Jerrix asked.

The commander smiled.

“That is an appropriate word. We only want peace on our world.
Unfortunately our government disagrees.”

“Do we have to stand here all day?” Tarra asked. “My legs are killing me.”

“You and those legs,” the cat exclaimed.

“Follow me please.”

The officer led them through the open door and along a dimly lit corridor. At the far end was the mess room with its various tables and chairs.

“Have a seat please,” the officer asked.

As they sat, Jerrix asked casually, “How long have you lot been here?”

“Oh around six years give or take. This whole complex is underground.”

“Does the government know about you?” Tarra asked.

“Of course they do. We occasionally launch hit and run operations.”

“You must have a long term plan,” Tarra said.

The officer smiled.

“Kennel city is protected by an energy dome. We try and breach it but so far it’s held.”

“Do you have a map for me?” Jerrix asked.

“I’ll get you one,” the commander said padding off.

“They seem pleasant enough,” Dorix said.

“I suppose we were lucky then,” Jerrix replied.

Commander Sala returned with a large map and laid it out before them.
Jerrix studied it carefully.

“It’s pretty detailed. Landing pads, barracks, government buildings etc.”

“You must realise that we used to live there.”

“Of course,” Jerrix replied. “Now see these towers at the four corners?”

“Those are power conductors for the energy field,” the officer told him.

“Which should have been your primary target,” Jerrix said.

“Every time we tried the weaponry bounced off.”

Jerrix closed his eyes and breathed slowly.

“Calm down Jerrix. OK. These fields never reach ground level. There is always a gap of three or four inches at the base. That is the weak point.”

The commander shook his head.

“Nothing can squeeze through that. We would have tried already.”

Jerrix looked up at the commander and said, “I can get through that.”

Sala looked at him.

“You had better be sure Jerrix. If you get stuck, well...”

“I’ll need gelignite to put a tower out of action. Then you launch your strike. One thing I want made perfectly clear though. Minimum casualties.”

“You got it.”

As the officer went off to make the arrangements, Dorix asked, “you still have to get there.”

“A scout craft will do the trick. I’ll fly at ground level and pancake.”

“Sounds pretty dangerous,” Tarra commented.

“I have nine lives my dear. Don’t you know that?”

“Just don’t lose one,” she whispered.

The officer returned with some of his troopers.

“The operation is all set Jerrix. The scout craft is being loaded with gelignite now. One of my pilots can take you.”

“Loaded?” Jerrix exclaimed. “I only need a couple of sticks and detonators.”

“I’ll change the plan then,” Sala said ruefully. “Once the barrier comes down we will hit the military base and seize the landing port.
After that we will fight our way in.”

“So much bloodshed. Wasteful,” Jerrix commented.

“Sorry,” Sala replied. “There is no other way.”

“Of course,” Dorix said. “We will go with you.”

Both Jerrix and the commander shook their heads.

“This is no holiday trip for civilians,” the Commander said. “Our enemies will turn you lot into chum. Stay here until we return.”

“I agree entirely,” Jerrix commented. Then turning to the officer he said, “for goodness sake leave the prisons and those ships intact.”

“We are not murderers.”

“I know. We need to free as many as possible. The Fleons deserve a chance.”

“With us they will have that chance Jerrix. We promise you that.”

“Then it is time to go.”

He saw that Tarra was a little scared.

“Don’t you worry my dear. This crazy plan will work you know.”

She looked up a moment before bursting into tears.
===
The silver scout craft skimmed across the flat plain with Jerrix sitting at the rear fondling the bag, which contained the explosive materials. Other craft were nearby, invisible to enemy radar detection.

“Now remember to land softly,” Jerrix reminded his pilot.

“Don’t worry sir. You won’t even feel it.”

“I hope not. Once I’m out take the craft back out.”

The pilot disagreed.

“I’ve been ordered to accompany you Jerrix. That is what I intend to do. Someone must cover your back.”

“If you wish. How are we doing?”

“Nearly there sir. The fools have no patrol craft up. That will
change once we hit them.”

“That is fortunate I suppose.”

The craft swung as the city came into view. Jerrix saw the hazy glimmer of the barrier.

“West section please.”

The scout craft deployed the landing struts and came down gently as the experienced pilot cut the motor.

“We are down. Come on sir, time to go. We don’t want to be caught on the ground.”

Jerrix stood as the short ramp deployed and they filed out. They ran to the edge of the barrier and the cat pointed out the gap.

“See what I mean?”

The pilot looked at the seemingly impossible task.”

“I wish you luck sir.”

Jerrix lay upon his front and crawled as close to the energy field as possible. Then he lay upon his side and inched slowly under.

“Nearly there,” he whispered.

The pilot was astonished that he had made it.

Crawling free, Jerrix dashed to the base of the adjacent tower. As quickly as possible, he opened his bag and pulled out the explosives. Inserting the detonator, he moved back unrolling the cable as he did so.

When he considered the distance safe enough he plugged the cable into the plunger and pushed hard.

An explosion ripped the base free and the tower shook before toppling forwards. As it did so, the energy dome shimmered and failed. With a loud crash, the tower hit the ground and the armed pilot joined him.

“We need to get to that corner,” the pilot pointed out and the cat followed him.

As they reached the corner of a building, sirens wailed across Kennel City. The pilot looked up as rebel craft began their strafing run.

“Now it gets rough,” the pilot said.

“You’re not kidding,” Jerrix replied. “We have to move on.”

The pilot agreed and went to dash across the street when a laser bolt exploded near them.

“Keep your head down mate,” the pilot yelled firing back.

As explosions echoed across the city, further bolts ripped the soft wall apart.

“We have to get out of here,” Jerrix shouted. “I mean now.”

The pilot glanced around frantically and spotted an open entrance.

“We can reach there if we move now. Just run for it.”

Jerrix took a breath and dashed across the open space as bolts burst around them. How they avoided being hit was miraculous but they dashed through the entrance and spotted a staircase.

“Up there,” the pilot shouted and Jerrix dashed up the stone steps.

The pilot followed as they reached a locked door.

“Stand back sir.”

As he did so, the weapon barked and the door swung open violently.

“You only needed to take out the lock. Not the damn hinges.”

He was pushed through the door and found himself upon an open roof.
They heard boot steps ascending the steps and the pilot fired into the stairwell. Jerrix heard screams as some of the bolts struck home.

“I won’t be able to hold them off for long.”

Jerrix scanned the roof and spotted something. He ran over and saw to his relief a metal rail connecting this roof to an adjacent one.”

“Get over here now,” he shouted.

The pilot ran over and just stared.

“You first then sir.”

Jerrix climbed upon the rail and bounded across as the pilot followed. As they reached safety, the enemy bolts burst around their furry ears. The pilot swung and fired at the rail support, which caused it to collapse into the street below.

“That will hold them off sir. Now what?”

Jerrix found the exit and they plunged through. They dashed down the steps hoping the enemy would not cut them off as explosions continued elsewhere.

Reaching the street again, they dashed toward the prison building where the Fleons were being held. As they reached it, guards dashed out and opened up.

“Hit the deck,” the pilot yelled.

The first salvo flew over their heads as the pilot cut the enemy down. They dashed to the entrance and the pilot blasted his way inside.

Bodies fell in all directions and many of the guards fled as they pushed their way into the control room. When they reached it, Jerrix searched the panel.

“What are you looking for?” the pilot asked.

“The main power switch. Cut that and the cells open automatically.
It’s part of the safety system.”

“Why didn’t you say?” the pilot asked running to the far end of the room.

As Jerrix watched, he pulled the red lever down plunging them into a reddish glare.

“That’s the emergency lights,” Jerrix explained. “You can hear the prisoners escaping already. Come on, we better join the troops.”

They dashed out and were met by a column of rebel troops.

“Their patrol craft have been disabled and we are heading for the government building. How about that prison?”

“We managed to free them Commander. How about casualties?” Jerrix replied.

“We have a few sir. We seem to be winning.”

At that moment, they came under heavy fire and two of the troopers went down. As everyone dashed for cover, some of the released prisoners started to pour out.

The troopers returned fire, driving the enemy back as streams of Dogians and Fleons fled the scene.

When the coast was clear, the commander led his troops up the street in the direction of the government quarter.

As they advanced, they spotted a formidable obstacle. A wall of armoured vehicles.

Before they could react, these vehicles opened up and the ground erupted around the rebels. As shrapnel flew in all directions, the troopers scattered. Many of them were cut down savagely.

Jerrix saw the brave pilot go down badly wounded and crawled over to him.

“I’ll drag you to safety.”

He stood in the midst of the carnage and dragged the helpless man into an open building as scout craft struck back. The armoured vehicles erupted in red and yellow flame under the air assault, and the troopers advanced once more.

Rallying his forces, the commander ordered them forward as enemy infantry returned fire. Within the building entrance, Jerrix examined the pilot’s wounded leg.

“I’ll have to apply a tourniquet," he said raising the limb. “Now keep it there and hold on.”

He dashed off as the stricken pilot began to sink into darkness.
After what seemed like ages, Jerrix returned with a 2 piece of torn curtain. He expertly tied this in place and pushed the second piece into the gaping wound.

The pilot’s eyes opened again.

“Seems we must part sir.”

“Don’t you dare. How will I get back? I don’t fancy walking you know.”

The pilot smiled painfully at the intended joke.

At that moment, a medic officer appeared and ran towards them.

“Stay with him,” Jerrix ordered. “Don’t allow him to die.”

“I’ll do my best sir,” the medic replied.

“Where are you off to?” the pilot asked weakly.

“I have to stop this senseless killing.”

With that short statement, the cat dashed off towards the government quarter. Towards the sound of war.

This peek does not count..I see this is a slow burner..No worries..It will grow on you..

From their vantage point, they saw a series of buildings that looked terribly unearthly. They were tall and coated in a white substance. Each one had a spiral upon its roof and from these; flashes of light could be seen.

Among these buildings walked the residents. They were as far from humanoid as it was possible to get. Each one was insect like. Their bodies were supported by two spindly legs and from their shoulders, thin wings protruded. Large compound eyes looked ahead and from their mouth, a long thin proboscis protruded.

“They look like giant flies,” Tarra whispered.

“Be very careful,” Jerrix warned. “They can hear you.”

As he said this, two of the residents turned toward them.

“That’s torn it,” he whispered.

A musical voice drifted towards them.

“We know that you are both there. You had better come out and show yourselves.”

“Let’s say hello then,” Jerrix said standing up.

The inhabitants watched as the visitors walked from the undergrowth beaming.

“I’m Jerrix and this is Tarra.”

“Colix and Dorix,” they replied sweetly.

“Nice to meet you,” Tarra said.

“Why have you come here?” Dorix asked.

“Just passing through,” Jerrix assured them. “As a matter of fact we had no idea anyone was here.”

“You were lucky to get this far,” Colix said.

“We escaped the killer plants,” Tarra replied.

“Those are not the only dangers,” Dorix explained.

“Have you eaten?” Corix asked.

“We would love a morsel or two,” Jerrix said quickly.

“Then follow us. We don’t get many strangers here.”

“Please lead on,” Jerrix said.

The inhabitants led the way through the winding streets as others
stared at their strange guests.

“How long have you been here?” Dorix asked.

“Actually we have just arrived,” Tarra replied.

“Then you must leave after your meal,” Corix advised. “It is not safe here.”

They were led inside one of the buildings and found themselves in a pale round room. A table sat in the centre and chairs were dotted around. The strange thing was that these objects seemed to grow out of the dusty floor.

What seemed to be a wooden larder stood at the far side, and toward this Dorix advanced.

“Have a rest,” Corix suggested as Dorix opened the door and produced yellow and green fruit.

He carried these back to the table as the travellers sat.

“Those look delicious,” Jerrix said picking one up.

“Is it safe?” Tarra asked.

“Your humanoid anatomy can handle it. Take a bite.”

Their hosts sat as the travellers tucked into the snack.

The fruit was a little like peach in flavour but with a strong hint of meat.

“You like this?” Corix asked.

“Very nice,” Tarra replied.

Jerrix glanced around.

“You suggested a threat,” he commented.

“There is always a threat to our community,” Dorix replied.

“Who from?” Tarra asked.

“The Dogians,” Corix said softly.

“Who are they?” Jerrix asked.

“A race of mongrels,” Dorix replied. “For the last fifty years they have come out of their kennels and ravaged our lands.”

“Did you say kennels?” Tarra asked.

“She did,” Jerrix replied. “What I want to know is why they do this.”

“We wonder ourselves,” Corix said. “We cannot possibly harm them.”

Tarra bit another segment from her fruit, juices running down her chin.

Jerrix stared at her.

“Forgive my friend,” he said. “She is not quite civilised.”

Tarra just glared.

“Now that you are both nearly finished you should leave,” Corix said.

“We will at our own good time,” Jerrix answered.

“You do not understand,” Dorix replied. “Both your lives are in extreme danger.”

A figure ran inside at that moment.

“The Dogians are here.”

As they turned in mute shock, a large hairy paw swept the figure aside and a Dogian entered.

Jerrix held Tarra down and whispered, “Don’t even think about it.”

She remained sitting as the enemy walked toward them.

Tarra looked at him closely.

The figure wore a gold helmet topped with a short spike. Below this, two fluffy ears protruded. From the neck down, silver chainmail protected the body and upon the two paw like feet, metallic boots were worn. The Dark eyes looked rather menacing. Within the large paws, a weapon was held. It was pointing straight at them all.

“I see there are strangers here,” the creature said gruffly.

“You have no right coming into our community,” Corix said bravely.

The Dogian laughed.

“We have every right to remove vermin.”

“You regard these good people as vermin?” Tarra asked.

“Of course,” the Dogian replied. “Like all vermin they spread disease.”

“You don’t I suppose,” Jerrix asked.

The creature stared coldly.

“On your feet.”

All four stood slowly.

“What will you do with us?” Tarra asked.

“We are clearing out this nest,” the creature replied. “As for you
two strangers, you will be interrogated.”

“Like hell they will,” Corix shouted running forward.

The weapon barked once reducing the helpless individual to a pool of ooze.

The others stared on in horror.

“If you don’t want the same, get outside.”

Slowly, so as not to provoke further violence, Jerrix, Tarra and Dorix walked outside. The scene that met their eyes was not a pleasant one.

The inhabitants were being herded towards huge silver ships that Jerrex recognised at once.

“Those are prison ships.”

Their guard poked his weapon into their backs, urging them on.

They mounted the ramp and found themselves within a huge corridor. The guard moved them forward until they stopped outside a small cell. The guard pressed a button and the dark bars slid open.

“Inside.”

They stepped forward and the bars slid shut.

The Dogian guard laughed and walked away.

“We are sorry for your friend,” Tarra said softly.

“She was my mate,” Dorix replied.

“Next time think before making such loose comments,” Jerrix told her.

“I am sorry. Strange day eh? A couple of hours ago I was at home and now I’m behind bars.”

“You get used to it,” Jerrix replied.

“Where will they take us?” Tarra asked.

“Back to their land,” Dorix explained. “After that?”

“I admit that it does not look rosy,” Jerrix said. “Pity the guard left.”

“I’m glad that he did,” Tarra said. “That dog gave me the creeps.”

Dorix walked back towards the bars as the ship jolted.

“We are taking off,” he commented.

“It won’t be too long before we arrive then,” Jerrix said.

“Perhaps we won’t have to,” Dorix said quietly.

“What do you mean by that?” Jerrix asked.

“What do you think my hooter’s for?”

He watched as the proboscis felt its way beyond the bars and probed the recessed button.

“Almost there,” Dorix whispered.

He probed further and the bars suddenly slid open. He only managed to save his proboscis by inches.

“Are you two going to stay here?” Dorix asked stepping into the corridor.

Jerrix and Tarra quickly joined him.

“I hope you have a plan,” Tarra whispered.

“I am sure that Jerrix has,” Dorix replied.

“Follow me,” the cat said leading the way.

“What about the other prisoners?” Tarra asked as they passed a crowded cell.

“We can help them later. We have to reach the flight deck.”

They stopped beneath an air intake outlet. Jerrix leapt and managed to haul himself inside.

“Give me your hand,” he called to Tarra.

She stretched upwards and placed her hands in his paws. Then he hauled her upwards. Once she was safely inside, he reached down, taking Dorix spindly arms.

“Nearly there,” he whispered.

Once they were all safely inside Jerrix crawled along the passageway until they came to a sealed section. Jerrix placed a paw over his mouth.

“Hush.”

He looked down through another intake and saw the flight deck below.

“This could be awkward,” he whispered.

They watched as he stretched over the small space before dropping down inside.

“Hello there,” he called to the astonished pilots.

Before they could react, Jerrix lashed out with clenched paws knocking them out quickly. Then he ran to the main entrance and sealed the door.

“Come on you two,” he called up.

As he took the controls, Tarra and Dorix joined him.

“You can fly this thing?” Tarra asked.

“It is second nature to me,” he replied. “Now where is the Neumon gas control?”

He searched the console until he spied the button he was after. Then he pressed it.

Throughout the ship, clouds of pink gas poured down from overhead filters, quickly flooding the corridors. As it travelled, both guards and prisoners slumped to the floor.

“That should take care of everyone,” Jerrix said smiling to himself.

“I hope you haven’t killed them.”

Jerrix turned a scowling face in her direction.

“What do you take me for? Everyone is asleep.”

As he said this Dorix noticed a range of snow covered mountains coming into view.

“I think you had better gain altitude and quickly.”

Jerrix had seen the threat and pulled the stick sharply back. The prison ship swept upwards, missing the peak with feet to spare.

“Okay,” Jerrix said. “We need a place to land.”

Dorix looked as the ship swept landward again.

“How about there?” he pointed.

Beneath the ship, a huge expanse of grass had come into view. Jerrix swung the ship around gently.

“Reverse thrust, lower the landing struts and voila!”

The ship came gently to rest and he shut the drive system down. He got off the seat and reopened the main door to the ship’s interior.

“How about the guards?” Dorix asked.

“They will still be asleep. We have to wake your people and place the Dogians within the cells.”

They wandered down the corridors, waking the Fleons and dragging the guards into the cells. When this was complete, Jerrix led everyone outside. The ship had landed within an open savannah that stretched for miles in all directions.

“I believe we are about one hundred miles from your colony,” Jerrix said. “We have to get away from here before the Dogians come looking.”

“I think we should go that way,” Dorix suggested pointing ahead.

“You know where we are then?” Tarra asked.

“Not exactly but Jerrix is right. If we stay here we are finished.”

“That settles it,” Jerrix said. “That’s the way we go.”

Collecting everyone together, they marched towards the horizon and the unknown. After a couple of hours, they reached the banks of a fast flowing river. It was obvious that crossing would be a problem.

“Can we go around it?” Tarra asked.

“I doubt it,” Jerrix replied. “It seems to cut right across our path.”

“Perhaps we can help,” Dorix said.

“How?” Tarra asked.

“We can lift you across.”

Jerrix slapped his head.

“Of course your wings.”

Dorix nodded.

“They can fly us across?” Tarra asked.

“I think there are enough of them,” Jerrix said.

The Fleons surrounded them and taking hold of their arms their small fragile wings began to beat swiftly. Slowly but surely they lifted into the air and swept across the river before landing once more.

“Thanks for the lift,” Jerrix said.

“You’re welcome,” Dorix replied.

“Now that we are across,” Tarra said. “Where too now?”

“This way,” Dorix said.

They followed as the Fleons led the way across the flat land. As
they walked on, Tarra noticed the lack of any birdlife. She was
about to mention it when the very air began to vibrate.

“Everyone down,” Dorix shouted.

As they hit the ground, a large silver ship moved slowly overhead. Everyone remained still until the threat passed by.

“That was a little close for comfort,” Tarra commented.

“At least we know they are hunting us,” Jerrix said.

“How does that help?” Tarra asked.

“Actually not much,” he confessed. He turned to Dorix and his people.

“If your people wish to live in peace and harmony we have to deal
with the protagonists.”

“We would agree Jerrix but as you can see, they are much stronger than we are.”

“I bet you are smarter though,” Jerrix replied.

“You have a suggestion?” Dorix asked.

“Let’s say the germ of a plan.”

“I would like to hear it,” Tarra asked.

“You will, all in good time.”

As they walked on, checking overhead now for sounds of trouble, Tarra finally got the question off her young mind.

“Where have all the birds gone?”

Dorix looked rather puzzled.

“What are birds?”

“Small feathery things that fly,” she explained.

Jerrix smiled at her.

“I don’t think they evolved here.”

“This world gets stranger by the day,” she said.

Jerrix stopped for a moment.

“I think we should camp here for the night. We will need all our strength for the morrow.”

Dorix agreed. The sun had started to set and night was fast approaching. His people gathered kindling and a small fire was lit. As it popped and sparked Jerrix began to outline his strategy.

“Our first priority is to discover what the Dogians weaknesses are.

They must have a few. Our second priority is to discover the fate of the captives. Then perhaps we will gain the advantage.”

“They seem to have an incredible technology,” Tarra said. “Defeating that will be no pushover.”

Jerrix turned towards her.

“The more complicated technology becomes, the easier it is to throw a spanner in the works.”

“Then we will need one hell of a spanner,” she replied.

“Why should you want to help us?” Dorix asked pleasantly.

“Oppression should always be resisted,” Jerrix replied. “If we allow the weak to go under then we are no better than them.”

“It is a moral decision,” Tarra explained.

“Exactly,” Jerrix replied.

“My people thank you both,” Dorix said.

“You can do that when it’s over.”

Darkness rapidly descended and everyone settled down for what they hoped would be a quiet night. The silence was a little unnerving.
Only the faint rustle as the wind blew through the blades of grass could be heard.

Tarra tried to sleep but it was hopeless.

“Do you think we can win?”

Jerrix half opened his eyes and yawned.

“Dear child. I always win.”

She closed her eyes again and rolled softly into sleep. The strange surroundings had not fazed her as yet. Great danger lay ahead but for now, her mind was restful.

Ta...This series may not be to everyone's taste...

The home stood upon a dark lonely hill. Its wooden exterior dark and menacing, yellow light pouring through the glass windows.

This was an isolated spot, deliberately so. Beyond the windows, trees grew to the outermost horizon. Within that darkness, foxes scurried on their hunt for food and owls hooted at the waning moon.
Tarra gazed out of her bedroom window. Mom was at work as usual. Papa had left years before, unable to cope with his wife’s erratic behaviour.

Tarra was a happy thirteen year old. Her straight and yellow hair always seemed to gleam, even when it went unwashed.

She watched as bats flitted past, seeming to engage in aerobatics before her enquiring eyes. Her mother would return at dawn, she had better go to bed.

Sighing deeply, she turned her head away as a flash of light attracted her attention.

“What can that be?” she asked softly.

She screwed her eyes and stared hard through the cloak of darkness. Just within the boundary of the woods, a flashing halo of green light was clearly visible. Tarra had never seen anything like it.

She turned away quickly and threw her housecoat over her slim shoulders before prancing from the room. She darted down the creaky stairs and entering the hall made her way to the locked rear door.
In a moment it was open, cold air rushing past as she carefully crept outside. Her small hand pulled the door shut and she walked slowly but with purpose towards the location where the light had been seen.

As she got closer, the darkness seemed to grow denser and her heart beat a little faster. A loud whirring sound seemed to be coming from the woods, but the light had vanished.

A loud click persuaded her to crouch low. As she watched, an indistinct figure came into view. It was at that moment Tarra sneezed.

“Who’s there?” a strange high-pitched voice called out.

Tarra remained silent, holding her breath in desperation.

“Please come out,” the voice called. “I won’t harm you, promise.”

Tarra stood nervously as the figure watched from the trees.

“Please sir, I was just looking.”

“Of course you were little girl. No harm in looking you know.”

“I am not a little girl,” she protested. “At least not anymore.”

“Come closer,” the voice called. “I don’t bite.”

She crept slowly forward and gradually the figure came into full view. What she saw was clearly impossible.

Standing before her eyes was a rather large slim cat. He stood upon his hind legs and seemed to be holding something between his paws.
She saw the sea blue eyes gazing at her and the animal smiled.

“What’s the matter? Never seen a cat before?”

Tarra shook her head and rubbed her eyes quickly. The apparition remained solid.

The cat came forward, putting out a paw.

“I’m Jerrix Tau by the way.”

Tarra shook it.

“Tarra Jenkins. This can’t be possible.”

Jerrix looked surprised.

“That is the problem with humanoids,” he muttered. “Always assuming they are the pinnacle of creation.”

“Well we are,” Tarra replied studying him closely.

She clearly saw the deep brown fur over his paws and head but his body was wrapped in a bright yellow cloak that was kept closed with a throat clasp. She saw that two side pockets had been sown in. In one paw, he was holding a small silver star.

“What is that for?” she asked pointing.

“Just a direction finder Tarra, nothing important. Definitely not a ray gun.”

“I am glad of that,” she replied. “Are you lost then?”

Jerrix looked shocked.

“Me lost? Never. Just checking the location that’s all.”

“You sound lost to me,” she replied.

“What would you know about it? My brain would not fit inside that tiny skull of yours.”

“Look who’s talking,” she responded.

“Are we going to spend eternity arguing or can I leave now?”

“Where will you go to?” Tarra asked. “This is the middle of nowhere.”

“Ah, that is where you are wrong. I have a craft you see.”

Tarra gazed past the strange figure but her human eyes saw nothing.

“You have quite a walk then.”

“What do you mean walk? It’s right behind me,” Jerrix replied.

“That’s funny, I don’t see it.”

Jerrix laughed.

“Actually I am glad you can’t. That would be rather awkward.”

He glanced at the silver star and promptly swung around. As she watched, he stepped forward and vanished.

“Hey, wait for me.”

Tarra followed and found herself inside an alien craft. She gazed at
the walls and floor that shimmered pale blue. Ahead, Jerrix stood before four metallic cat statues, each around five feet high.
Slightly taller than he. The statues stood at the four compass points and within that space, a metal dome rose to waist height.

Jerrix turned as she walked across the spongy floor.

“Oh, it’s you.”

“Yes it is me. You don’t think that vanishing trick fooled me do you?”

“It seems not Tarra. Now you had better leave.”

“Give me one good reason why?”

“I could give you a dozen reasons. The fact is I have to leave.”

“In this thing?”

“Of course. See these levers?” Jerrix asked.

Tarra could only see three.

“What about them?”

“If I pull one of them we leave this planet of yours. So if I were you...”

“Wherever you are going I’m coming too,” she said quickly.

Jerrix was astonished.

“Are you sure Tarra? It won’t be a picnic.”

Tarra folded her arms.

“I’m staying Jerrix. At least for now.”

“As you wish.”

He turned and wandered to the north-facing statue where he seemed to pull something. Seconds later, rays of white light shot from the eyes of the statues and formed a silver grid above the dome.

“What do you think?” Jerrix asked.

“Quite amazing. What is it?”

He did not answer but simply waited. A few seconds later a spiral shaped sea of stars appeared. A huge bulge of light shone at the centre, and two dots flashed. Tarra noticed that they were on opposite sides of the galaxy.

“What do you make of that?” Jerrix asked.

“I’m not as dumb as you seem to think,” she replied. “The nearside dot is Earth but I don’t recognise the other one.”

“Of course you don’t. From your planet, it’s invisible. That dot is where I come from.”

A third dot started flashing, quite near the galactic centre on Earth’s side.

“Why is that flashing?” she asked.

Jerrix smiled as he walked to the east side. He pulled the lever sharply down and said, “That is where we are going.”

There was no feeling of movement, nothing at all. Not even a slight vibration. Moments later Jerrix pushed the lever to the middle position.

“We have arrived Tarra. Fancy taking a peek?”

He walked quickly past her and vanished again. She was about to follow when he reappeared, covered in snow.

“It’s far too cold.”

Tarra laughed.

“Serves you right. I can’t possibly go out like this.”

“I see you’re point. Now let me see.”

He rubbed his chin a moment before wandering over to the far wall.
He bent down and pulled open a hidden drawer. She approached as he tossed a small silver ball in her direction. She managed to catch it.

“Well done, you have excellent reflexes.”

He closed the drawer and stood to his full height once more. Then he placed his ball in a side pocket and suggested that she do likewise.

“How will this help?”

“It will keep us warm. Now come on.”

He vanished once more and taking a deep breath Tarra followed.

She had expected to freeze at once but a warm glow surrounded her slight form.

“Warm enough?” he asked.

“It is amazing Jerrix. I don’t feel cold at all.”

“Just keep the thermal globe in that pocket of yours, otherwise you freeze.”

She glanced around the windswept landscape. Sharp towers of rock stood stark against the pale sky as flakes of snow fell around them.
She turned expecting to see the craft but apart from a slight green glow, it was gone.

“It is turning opaque, never mind,” he explained. “I can always find it again. Linked to my cortex you know.”

She stepped forward as the snow rose to knee depth.

“Where are we Jerrix?”

“In your own language it is called Sagittarius one. Of course your astronomers have not seen it yet.”

“You don’t speak English?” Tarra asked.

“Of course not, I’m a cat after all. That would be silly.”

The young girl was puzzled.

“How come I can understand you then?”

“Our minds are linked. Have been from the moment we met. Not to worry it is perfectly normal.”

“Are we going to stay here long?” she asked.

“Depends on what we find. I reckon we go this way.”

Jerrix walked off in a westerly direction as Tarra followed. The snow acted as a restraint to their movements but they waded on.

“Have you done this before?” Tarra asked.

“Many times. I am a seasoned traveller.”

As he said this he tripped, landing on his furry nose.

“Eh right,” she said giggling.

As he scrambled free, he coughed loudly, wiping the snow from his cloak.

“That was lucky,” he commented.

“Call that lucky?”

“I was referring to the thermal globe Tarra. It remained in my deep pocket. Now if we go this way...”

He pointed ahead towards what seemed to be a distant ledge.
They trudged on as the wind billowed around them. At this extreme altitude, there was nothing but silence. No birds, no nothing.

They stopped as the ledge was reached.

Tarra looked across an extreme range of mountains rising up from a sea of low-lying clouds.

“It looks beautiful,” she muttered.

“Certainly does,” he replied looking down.

She followed his gaze and saw the snow covered ground falling away. To her horror, he sat and gingerly put his legs over the edge.

“We can’t go down there,” she exclaimed. “It’s far too dangerous.”

“There is a glacier just below here,” he replied. “We can slide down. It is much quicker than walking.”

“Oh come on, we shall be smashed to pieces.”

“You can be boring and stay here if you wish but I’m off.”

She saw him slip over the edge and vanish before sliding rapidly down the hillside. Tarra shook her head before dangling her own legs over the ledge. With a deep breath and a sense of fear, she let go.

The falling sensation was bad enough, but when she found herself hurtling down the ice covered slope her courage failed completely.

“Jerrix!”

The howling wind drowned out her voice as she hurtled toward the cloud base at increasing velocity. She closed her brown eyes in terror as the fluffy white material engulfed her.

In desperation, she thrust her hands into her pockets, gripping the ball tightly as she shot from the clouds and into a wider expanse. To left and right the thick glacier ground on and it seemed that the slope was easing. There was no sign of her companion, no sign of life at all.

She gazed ahead and saw a small blue patch that seemed to be getting larger.

“I hope its water,” she muttered, sliding toward it.

Moments later, there was a loud splash and Tarra found herself swimming in a warm Turkish bath. She clawed her way to the surface and saw Jerrix sitting on a grass-covered embankment watching her.

“Give me a hand then,” she spluttered.

“Try breaststroke,” he suggested.

She swam on, reaching the bank before hauling herself out.

“Knew you could do it,” Jerrix said.

“That was foolhardy in the extreme,” she shouted. “What kind of maniac are you?”

“Maniac indeed. We were never in any real danger. Those clouds were steam. I knew what lay below it.”

“You could have told me,” Tarra complained.

“Why? It would have spoiled your fun,”

“You call that fun?”

“Certainly funnier than ending up in a pig sty.”

He stood up and helped her to her feet. Looking down he noticed that her slippers were missing.

“Your bare feet could get cut, so be careful.”

Before she could reply, Jerrix walked along the embankment muttering quietly.

She followed, despite the wet clothes.

“What are you saying?” she wanted to know.

“I’m observing the fauna Tarra. Very earth like. Oxygen levels are
quite similar too.”

“Is that important?”

“Everything is important. You never know if the locals will grab you.”

He stopped suddenly.

“What is the matter?”

“I thought I heard something,” he whispered.

She strained but heard no sound whatsoever.”

“Must be your unique hearing,” she commented.

“Probably,” he replied. “Humanoids can’t hear a pin drop.”

Just ahead of them Tarra saw a long brown shape that seemed to be burrowing its way out of the ground.

Jerrix grabbed her hand and pulled her unwillingly into the thick undergrowth.

“We have to outrun it,” he said pulling her harder.

They ran for a time before he judged it correct to slow down.

“A killer plant?” she asked.

“Certainly looked like it. I have met this kind of thing before.”

“Which direction?” she asked.

He looked up at the canopy of trees, yellow sky beaming down at him.

“I will take a look.”

Without further comment, Jerrix shinned up the nearest tree and vanished among the leaves.

“What can you see?”

“Quite a lot,” he replied. “There seems to be a town just ahead of us.”

He reappeared and was soon standing beside her.

“We should check it out,” he said.

“A town seems fine to me.”

He took her hand and led her to the edge of the outback where a better view was afforded.

Ahead lay the strangest town she had ever seen in her life.