ROTU: Chapter Forty-Seven

Jalena and Shamira changed into their new uniforms gifted to them by the Lumaña before they gathered their team to depart Asteria. The black gear was made of flexible material similar to that of their old. Blue and silver trim spread along the seams of the sleeves and pant legs.

"The trim allows the light to move freely through the cloth," a tailor had explained when the warriors collected them.

The white, gold, and silver of the Lumañas' battle attire glistened in the setting evening sunlight as the warriors spread across an open field near the ship bunkers.

Lenias and the other Stelarions bowed as the master warriors joined the group.

It is reassuring to see this many in number, Shamira said to Jalena.

Jalena nodded in agreement.

"I can't believe we get to fly Avehkal ships," Jarek said as the doors opened and the masters filed into the bunker.

They stared in awe at the sleek white and gold ships seated in a line before them.

"Lumaña ships," Danika corrected.

"Same thing," Jarek said. "They're amazing."

"They are almost the same, Master Jarek," Tau stated. "You really did not think that Ralian was the only brother with advanced technological skill, did you?" Tau said as he joined the party. "Ralian's engineering skill is unparalleled to most, no doubt, but compared to my brother's design, these are—"

"—way cooler," Jarek finished, "as humans would say."

Tau chuckled. "Indeed."

"They are undetectable to the human eye and are likely similar to what you are used to in design," Tau explained. "Our fighter pilots will escort you out of the atmosphere to your designated positions, but first, they will join you in piloting your ship into the Andean Mountains so you can practice getting comfortable with the ship's controls. Our top pilot, Suba-ka, along with Oba-ka and Surion-ka, will arrive in a few minutes to instruct you in the basics."

A blaring, high-pitched horn sounded, and the group turned to see another fleet of soldiers from a different province march across a nearby field, preparing to leave the Inner Realms, many of them for the first time in their lives. The soldiers carried spears and long blades. Their white and silver cloaks matched the smooth helmets that adorned their heads.

"Won't the humans in the area see what is transpiring?" Shamira said. "It would be hard to miss."

"The Stelarions will cloak the areas where any battle is fought. The Elementals will assist in masking the area also."

"Where are the Conduits?" Tau asked.

"They are preparing to journey to their assigned pyramids," Jalena said. "I feel that they should remain away from the main battle and have plenty of time to get into position. Shamira and I will see them off, and then we will return here."

Jalena and Shamira arrived at the edge of the clearing where Drisana and Sitara stood with their appointed Stelarion companions.

They both wore uniforms similar to the master light warriors, except that their clothing was trimmed with green and gold rather than blue and silver. Two blades sat in sheaths strapped around Sitara's thighs. Drisana wore a thick white cloak over her uniform, which hid necessary climbing gear and a short sword sheathed at her hip.

Jalena placed a hand on each of their shoulders and smiled as she observed the green halo around the rim of their irises. It had formed as the result of Kafele's light that surrounded them at the last Council.

"Do you feel more like yourselves now?"

Sitara nodded. "Thank you, Master Jalena, for everything." She grabbed her into a tight hug.

Jalena chuckled as she returned her embrace. "You are very welcome."

Drisana grinned as she repeated Sitara's gesture. "I haven't felt this good in years," she stated as she released Jalena.

"That is because your authenticity has finally surfaced." Jalena looked at both in turn. "You understand all of what you are to do?"

The two nodded.

"It is comforting that the planet has a secret army among the humans. Remember to align your full focus at the right time, and your heart will not fail—"

She turned sharply to her right as a tall teenage blonde girl wearing green attire approached them. She carried a white jeweled staff housing a green stone at its tip.

Jalena's eyes widened as she noted the green halo in the girl's eyes.

"Aeilah?" Drisana questioned.

Aeilah grinned and nodded. "I guess as a Conduit, you grow faster in Strenkarlia—probably because of their magic."

Jalena laughed as Drisana and Sitara took turns hugging Aeilah.

"We are happy that you found your way back to us," Jalena said as Aeilah hugged her. "Elindrel told me he has prepared you for what to do."

Aeilah nodded. "Rather than the pyramids, I will go beneath the ocean and direct the energy through the crystal caves that lie within the Earth."

"Where will you enter?" Shamira asked.

"The portal that lies within the Bermuda Triangle. I will not need the protection of the Earth warriors that Shakou has gathered for us," she added when she saw Jalena frown. "The animals of the ocean will mask my energy once I have entered the area, although I believe I will need a pilot to help me get there."

"I am sure one of the Lumaña pilots and Stelarions can assist you," said Jalena.

"Just mention to Master Lenias where you need to go, Miss Aeilah," a Stelarion said.

Aeilah smiled. "Thank you."

"I do not want to lose communication," Sitara said. "I feel like I am going on a solo quest."

"Let's try something," Jalena said. "Remember how Kafele spoke within your mind?"

Sitara and Drisana nodded.

"With your powers unlocked, it is likely that you can do this as well."

"Relax through your breath and then see your mind open to those on the mission," Shamira instructed.

The three did as they were told. After a few seconds, the green halo in their eyes brightened.

Can you hear me?Jalena asked telepathically.

The three nodded excitedly.

Good. You can communicate like this with each other, which is very useful for feeling connected even when spread across the planet. I believe you will not be limited in communicating across the distance.

Jalena and Shamira bowed to the Conduits.

When I see you next, it will be within the light, Jalena said as she and Shamira bowed to the Conduits. Use all the power you have been granted to spread the love for your planet that is ignited within you.

She addressed Aeilah.I will take you to the bunkers now.

Shamira's eyes widened as Sitara suddenly hugged her.

Sorry, Shamira, Sitara said quietly…you know, for all the trouble.

Shamira relaxed and dropped her arms around Sitara's shoulders. It's okay, kid.

I'm scared, she whispered.

Shamira smiled and tilted Sitara's face up to her own. What—a tough fighter like you? Her gaze turned serious. I know you can do it. Just believe fully in what you were born for. Your team is always with you, so remember that you are not alone and keep your connection flowing with support for each other.

Sitara took a deep breath and nodded as Aeilah quickly said her goodbyes to the others.

The three moved as the Stelarions chanted a spell to open two separate gateways. They held their staffs before them as golden glowing symbols appeared across their skin. Gold light spilled from their gaze as bright golden orange light shone from the amber stone in their staffs. It projected outward and traced the shape of a diamond into the air. Snow blew in from the portal to Tibet as the diamond widened to reveal a dark sky. Sunlight streamed through Sitara's portal to Yucatan.

Drisana shivered and threw the hood of her cloak up. Sitara held out her fist to Drisana and locked eyes with her teammate. Drisana nodded in reassurance and bumped her fist against Sitara's before the two, with their team of Stelarions following, disappeared through the glowing hole before them.

Remind you of anyone?Jalena asked Shamira on their way back to the bunkers.

Shamira smiled. Small team—just like us.

Jalena nodded. For now. Then, we gained nine more. I have a feeling they will find their tribe, too.

The three made their way back to the bunkers, where Jalena explained to the Stelarions what Aeilah needed.

Jalena watched in silence as the master team mingled with their Lumaña piloting partners. It was difficult to imagine that she once believed she would never see them again during her stay on Earth. And yet, with their return, they brought her even more than their companionship. Combining their powers during their journey into the Realm of Illuse was much more than she had ever expected.

The road you travel ends with everything you desire.

Jalena smiled at Malik's words, which had now become one of her favorite phrases. And then some.

Shamira gathered the master team together so Jalena could address them.

As she walked before them, Jalena met their gaze in turn, allowing appreciation for each to fill her.

Now that I have you before me again after all these long years on Earth, it would never be that I could willingly let you go very far from my sight, she said as she held Valora's stare.

Valora exhaled a deep breath.

Jalena continued to move along the line of warriors. I know that the memories of all of us living and fighting with the other by our side that I carried within me, alongside Gyan's powers, are what kept me from giving in when this mission was on the verge of failing for so long. I now understand that it was the essence of your existence—this team—that fueled our resilience even in the years Shamira and I forgot who we were.

Master Jalena, Hoshi whispered as she closed her eyes.

Danika quickly wiped her eyes and squeezed Jalena's hand as she held it out to her. Jalena put a hand on Hoshi's shoulder as she passed before her.

And yet, we come to a place where physical distance grows between us as you each leave the planet's confines once more.

Her eyes filled as she paused before Brogan.

He held her gaze with a fierce, watery stare.

Except this time, there is no real distance, for my heart has surfaced a love for something I took for granted when I left my home. After all the time we have spent here, I was unsure if I would have the privilege of continuing my journey of guiding some of the greatest warriors that have ever lived.

She gave the team a small smile as her tears dropped. She took a deep breath. Those I would not dare travel the universe without again.

Lorcan sniffed and dropped his gaze as Jalena passed him. He grabbed her hand tightly as she placed it on his shoulder. Next to him, Jarek shifted his stance as he crossed and uncrossed his arms. He closed his eyes as Jalena placed her palm on his cheek with her other hand.

The halos in Jalena's eyes began to shine as she continued. My appreciation for all of who you are is immeasurable. We are happy to be a part of the loyalty, friendship, and communion that you have freely shared in our experiences together. She stepped back. There is no team I would rather have by my and Shamira's side than the one that stands before me. What we lost with the transition of our old team has been fulfilled with even more than I had dreamed. We are honored to be a part of your hearts as you are a part of ours.

Shamira joined Jalena in bowing to the group, who returned their gesture.

I would thank all of you for the depth of conviction that you each displayed in the Realm of Illuse, Jalena said. It is for this reason that we are able to use our skills with even greater synchronicity than before. Because of this and because of the love and power that we carry, although we will be at different points across space, we are still united as one. Do not forget this.

When we unite the power that flows from within, the circle will be impenetrable. Remember the strength of your core, and you will know exactly what to do when the components align. I know, because of who you are, that you will be able to manage the planet's power successfully.

Master Jalena, I am about to burst with all these feels, Jarek said as he placed a hand on his chest. He swallowed. It was easier when you were—well, scary.

Jalena smiled as the group laughed. Sorry, Jarek, there is no turning back. You will just have to get used to it. Besides, I enjoy making you uncomfortable.

Her tone turned serious once more. When we fought Drasúl at our headquarters in Colorado, his blades carried poison, so spread the word to the rest of our comrades in case they have not yet received the information. I am unsure how fast our healing abilities will work against it.

How about we just not get injured at all, Lorcan said.

Good idea, said Brogan.

Even better, Jalena said. We want to rely on the skills of the Lumaña and Glisayas as much as possible in this battle. Unless it cannot be helped, do not open your Reserve until the shield is launched since all of your concentrated power will be needed to alter the Earth's energy.

The warriors nodded.

The masters bowed again to each other and joined their partnering Lumaña pilots.

As Jalena and Shamira joined the other soldiers, Tau lifted his large staff.

Gold light spilled from the symbol in the middle of his forehead to match his gaze as the symbols along his skin lit brightly. Amber light burst from the tip of his staff, and a large swirling portal opened above the bunkers. Brogan and the rest of the team waved from their cockpits, then maneuvered the ships up and out through the portal, followed by a large fleet of Lumaña pilots.

See you within the light, Brogan stated.

Tau moved to the front of the soldiers and pointed his staff out over the field. The light of his staff outlined an expanding diamond before the soldiers.

Drasúl will bring everything he's got at you when it is time to launch the shield, Shamira said.

I know, responded Jalena, I'm sure he will find a way that is equivalent to the use of moonfire to kill me when we meet, but I have been waiting for this battle with him all these years. I look forward to the end of this chapter of our lives, sister.

Then we go home.

Jalena grasped Shamira's hand. Then we go home.

Without a backward glance, the two stepped through the portal hand-in-hand.