The telepathic *voice* was very deep, its usual warmth replaced with terse authority.
     *Again.*
     Meren brushed the sweat from her eyes, gritted her teeth, dropped into her favoured defensive stance and waited for Jimain's next strike...
     He was so fast, a blur of black and bronze... she dived sideways for the ground, her foot lashing upwards as he leapt: the kick caught him on the thigh, deflecting his attack just enough for her to roll to her feet and ready herself for his next move.
     *Good! Again.*
     Half an hour later she was gasping, bruised and desperate for a rest. Jimain too was panting heavily, dark-golden skin sheened with sweat, testament to Meren's combat skills.
     *Can't we stop for a while?*
     He shook his head, expression grim.
     *You will not be able to ask a rest of the ANOMM. You must overcome your exhaustion, draw strength from it...*
     He tensed, gaze swivelling as the door to the training chamber opened - then relaxed as Jadrel's shaggy bronze head appeared.
     *Are you two finished yet?*
     Meren ran a hand through tangled black ringlets, shoving them back from her face.
     *Drige - I lost track of the time.*
     Jimain smiled and glanced at his partner.
     *You have something arranged?*
     *Ah, yes - but we can do it later...*
     The Elder inclined his head.
     *Far be it from me to come between friends.*
     Jadrel grinned.
     *Oh, you can come between us any time!*
     Chuckling, Jimain reached for the towels, handing one to Meren then wrapping another around his neck, *calling* back over his shoulder as he headed off for a shower.
     *We will continue training on the morrow.*

The two females watched as Jimain left the chamber, and Jadrel sighed.
     *You are so lucky...*
     Meren grinned.
     *Lucky? You think it's lucky being beaten up?*
     *Hey, Jimain can beat me up any time...*
     *You want me to tell him that?*
     Jadrel raised an eyebrow.
     *No, that's all right... I'll tell him myself. If I'm ever feeling masochistic.* She hugged the slighter female. *How is it going?*
     *He doesn't make any allowances. Then again, he never has...* She rubbed at a bruised shoulder. *And he developed a whole new discipline while he was back in Chatandi. Very nasty, very lethal stuff.*
     *Think you'll ever actually use it?*
     *I hope not. But you can never tell.* She paused for a moment, then sighed. *Peridien wants us in the States next minor month.*
     *Why?*
     Meren shrugged.
     *I don't know the details yet. It's something to do with the Kadaji Corporation, some sort of convention?*
     Jadrel nodded.
     *The Kadaji Conference, yes. They've been working on some new projects, things useful to us - photothermic filters, a new kind of energy cell, things like that. It all sounds really exciting! D'you think I could come too?*
     *You'd have to ask Peridien.*
     She sighed.
     *Yeah... He'll say no, though...* She shook her head resignedly, then grinned. *Hey, you need to get yourself ready. The night's half over already. Minor moon's about to rise.....*

Peridien glanced up from his monitor as Jimain entered, smiling at the warrior and gesturing to a seat. Jimain sprawled comfortably, shoving long wet hair back from his forehead and shoulders, watching as Peridien's attention returned to the information on his screen. The Elder was frowning.
     *There is a problem, my brother?*
     Peridien inclined his head, golden eyes troubled.
     *More than likely. Nothing overt, of course, but...*
     *ANOMM?*
     *Who else?*
     The warrior sighed.
     *What now?*
     *There's a somewhat worrying news item on one of the information sites in the Northern States. It's hidden away with several other similar but less significant articles. Less significant to us, anyway.* He swivelled the monitor around so Jimain could see the screen. *Here.*
     The warrior frowned.
     *'Trials of a range of new drugs to treat emotional and stress-related illnesses are being conducted at the Institute of Clinical Psychology, Rydensberg...'* Jimain glanced at the Elder. *I do not see why this should trouble you. Such things are common in the heartling world.*
     *Look at the company making the drugs.*
     *Ecceutical Inc.? Who are they?*
     *A very small, very inconspicuous ANOMM-controlled concern.*
     *Ah.*
     *Indeed.*
      Jimain inclined his head.
     *Should we intervene?*
     *We can't, at least directly. However, Listry has made many connections throughout the States: I'll contact her to see if she can arrange for one of her colleagues to join the team - maybe as a volunteer.*
     *Will that be safe?*
     *Possibly not. But I don't see how else we are to monitor the situation.*
     Jimain's rich green eyes narrowed pensively.
     *We are due to meet with Kadaji in seventeen days. Meren and I may travel over in advance and look into what is happening at Rydensburg.* He frowned at Peridien's unenthusiastic expression. *It is the best plan, my brother.*
     In fact it wasn't, but Peridien was *aware* of Jimain's restlessness. The warrior's recent trip to Chatandi had roused old memories, the sights and sounds of his subtropical homeland seeping deep into his self. While he was fully aware of his responsibilities to his 'clan' as a whole and to Peridien in particular, he itched for action, for the opportunity to leave this sheltered place for a time... The Elder leader nodded.
     *Very well. I will arrange it for you.* He rose suddenly, pacing around the desk and cupping the warrior's face in long slender hands, golden eyes gazing into green. *You will take care.*
     Jimain eyed his leader - his lord, in his own mind - for long moments, then nodded solemnly.
     *Of course...*

*No.*
     *But...!*
     Peridien sighed and ran a cool hand over the shaggy bronze mane.
     *Jadrel, I'm sorry, but you cannot go with them.*
     She planted her hands on her hips, glaring at him with that much-loved, infuriating expression he'd known since first encountering her.
     *Why not?*
     *Because you are not warrior-trained...*
     *Since when has that mattered?* she grumbled. The Elder frowned and inclined his head.
     *Since the ANOMM have started intruding into heartling affairs.*
     *But they've always done that!*
     *And their interference is becoming more widespread - and more subtle. I do not wish to risk any of our people unnecessarily.*
     *Well, can I go to the conference then? The new Kadaji stuff sounds fascinating! I want to be there, to see it firsthand... and I haven't been off Verland since that trip to Celdion three years ago!*
     Peridien smiled.
     *And you will miss Meren.*
     *That too.*
      *But they will not be gone for very long.*
     *That's what you said last time!*
     *Jadrel...*
     Her shoulders slumped as she gazed up at him from under her long shaggy fringe, expression woebegone, and he nearly gave in. But good sense took over before he could nod. He stroked her face gently.
     *Precious, you know I do not say 'no' without good cause. I don't want you to come to any harm.*
     She opened her mouth to object, then paused and half-smiled wryly.
     *Very well, Milor' Peridien.*
     He chuckled lightly, amused at the gentle sarcasm.
     *Thank you, precious.* He hesitated for a moment, then sighed. *I will think about it. If ANOMM activity in the area is low, then it might be possible. You will need a guard however.*
     She brightened and grabbed him into a hug, then pouted.
     *I wish the guard wasn't necessary.*
     Peridien closed his eyes, the faintest chilling whisper of ancient memories brushing across his mind.
     *We all wish that, precious...*

*Principles of Lunar Mining.* Jadrel handed over the tome with a grin. *You won't find it much fun.*
     Meren took the book and added it to the small pile of clothing and personal effects sitting on the bed.
     *I don't need to. I just need it to give me the impression of quiet academic.*
     Jadrel chuckled.
     *You, an academic?*
     Meren grinned.
     *Hey, it works! And gets me taken seriously, which is always useful.* She ran her gaze over the pile. *I think that'll do.*
     Jadrel frowned doubtfully.
     *It's not much...*
     Meren wrapped an arm across her shoulders and hugged.
     *I don't need much, meamori. And I've always preferred to travel light.*
     Jadrel leaned her head on her friend's shoulder.
     *It's going to be cold...*
     Meren laughed, amber eyes gleaming.
     *I was born in the Firhjin Mountains, remember. I know cold intimately...*
     Jadrel shivered melodramatically, then sighed.
     *I'm going to miss you.*
     *I'll miss you too... But it's not for long. And you might be joining us at the conference!*
     *Maybe. Though Peridien will probably say no.* She scowled. *Why does everyone keep saying it's not for long? Time's relative. It's going to feel long to me, regardless of how many days you're gone.*
     Meren grinned, then sighed.
     *Ah well. Let's get this into a bag then I'd better go see if himself is ready...*
     Even after all this time it amazed Jadrel how... practical Meren was: she would have been able to live perfectly adequately out of a carryall if she had to. Ten minutes later she dropped the bag at the door of her chamber, draped a warm, fur-lined leather coat over it, and turned to her friend.
     *Well, I guess that's me...*
     Jadrel hugged her tightly.
     *You'll look after each other, won't you?*
     Meren kissed her friend's cheek.
     *Of course. You're not to worry. Hopefully we'll see you at the conference - but if not, we'll be back before you know it.*
     Jadrel reluctantly released her, the glib words not in the least reassuring. Meren stroked her face.
     *You worry too much.*
     *Can't help it.*
     *I know... Keep an eye on Peridien, won't you? He worries too much, too.*
     A light tap at the door, then Jimain looked in, smiling.
     *You are ready?*
     Meren nodded, hugged Jadrel briefly, then grabbed her bag and took her usual place at the warrior's side. He inclined his head to Jadrel.
     *You are not to worry, lovely lady. I will return her safe and sound.*
     *And yourself!*
     He chuckled, deep voice reverberating slightly in the domed chamber.
     *And myself.* He caught her face between strong hands and kissed her gently. *I promise.*
     *I'll hold you to that.*
     Vivid green eyes gazed down into tawny-gold as he smiled.
     *I know that you will.*
     Jadrel held his gaze for a moment, then sighed.
     *Well, you'd better get going...*

Their necessary overday stay on Stalia had not been restful, and Jimain and Meren arrived at New Morberg airport weary, jet-lagged and driven by a sense of urgency: dawn wasn’t far off. They disembarked from their aircraft and hastened to the transit lounge to check in for their connecting flight – only to hit a snag
     "I'm sorry sir." The receptionist behind the desk fixed Jimain with a warmly appreciative smile and a less-than-subtle wriggle that made Meren chuckle - until she heard what was being said. "Due to the current bad weather, all internal flights have been grounded."
     Jimain frowned, his deep, warm voice tinged with concern. "But it is essential that we reach Rydensberg at the earliest possible opportunity."
     "I appreciate that sir, but there's really nothing I can do. This storm covers the whole of the east coast from Partington to Winslide. Nothing's getting through. You were lucky your flight wasn't diverted - it was one of the last to make it in." Jimain nodded tightly, turned from the desk and strode towards the exit, eyes narrowed in frustration. "Sir, I can recommend a good hotel..." the woman called, reluctant to let him go.
     "Thanks, but I'm sure we'll be able to organise something." Meren nodded at the heartling, grabbed their hand luggage, and hurried after her partner. Jimain was standing at the main doors, hands on hips, neon glinting on his long glossy hair and heavy golden earrings, staring into the snowy chill of a heavily overcast East Coast pre-dawn.
     *At least we don't have to worry about the time right away.* grumbled Meren, pulling her collar more closely about her throat as the wind whipped her sable ringlets into a wild tangle and slung snowflakes into her eyes. *I guess we'd better find somewhere to stay.*
     He nodded.
     *Are there any kin in the area?*
     Meren grinned. It was just as well one of them thought ahead - as always she'd checked the current records before they'd left Verland.
     *There are six 'safe' houses in the city. I'd suggest we contact Enaviel.*
     Jimain smiled.
     *The reporter? An excellent choice.* He paused. *Do you have the number?*
     Meren laughed.
     *Of course I do.*
     He leaned down to kiss her cheek.
     *I am eternally grateful for your foresight and efficiency...*
     She smirked.
     *Well someone has to keep you organised. You can make it up to me later...*

The sky was lightening as the flame-haired female flung open the door and dragged Meren and Jimain into an enthusiastic hug.
     "Welcome! Welcome! Come in!"
     Inside the door, smiling shyly and waiting quietly to take their cases, was a young heartling male - quite an attractive one, Meren noted. Enaviel grinned and beckoned to him to come forwards.
     "Jimain, Meren, this is Dwaine. My... companion."
     The heartling ducked his head, then regarded them both with brightly fascinated eyes.
     "Mighty pleased t'meet ya."
     Enaviel patted his shoulder.
     "Honey, could you take the luggage through to the guest room?" As Dwaine took Jimain's large case and Meren's far smaller holdall Enaviel ushered the newcomers through to the warm and almost luxuriously comfortable main room. Meren frowned as she slid out of her coat.
     *Does he know what you - we - are?*
     Enaviel nodded.
     *Some. Don't worry, I'm very, very careful who I pick, and I can't be arsed remembering to act heartling all the time - it's too much effort. There are plenty of pretty little things like him around eager for an easy life for a while in return for their silence.*
     Jimain eyed her appraisingly.
     *Nevertheless he is a security risk.*
     She pressed her hand between her breasts and lowered her head.
     *Lord Jimain, I am sure he's fine. But if you wish it, I'll send him away while you're here.*
     The warrior shook his head, sliding his coat from broad shoulders.
     *That will be unnecessary: I would not wish to repay your hospitality with such churlish behaviour. However, he must learn as little of us as possible.*
     *Certainly, my lord. I've no intention of compromising your safety!* She glanced to the door as Dwaine peeped in.
     "Ena, c'n I get drinks for y'all?"
     Enaviel glanced at Jimain, who nodded, then smiled at her companion.
     "I think the usual, please, honey."
      Dwaine obediently disappeared, to return moments later with a tray sporting a large decanter and three capacious tumblers, and a large mug of local ale and a bowl of salted nuts for himself. He placed the tray on a low table between the two facing sofas and moved to sit beside Enaviel, arm along the backrest, his fingers lightly brushing her hair.
      Meren's eyes twinkled.
     *You've got him well trained!*
     Their hostess' gaze resting on Dwaine's light blue eyes for a moment before turning to her guests with a smirk.
     *I do try...* "How long do you think you can stay?"
     Jimain pursed his lips.
     "Until we can arrange transport to our destination. I regret, not long."
     Enaviel nodded, pouring them each a tumbler of rich red liquor.
     "Pity - there's a lot to see here." She grinned as Jimain shivered almost imperceptibly. "Ah, yes, you would enjoy it more if the weather were a bit warmer."
     Meren took a deep swallow from her glass, the brandy in the liquid tingling through her limbs - then yawned widely, suddenly very tired. Enaviel nodded sympathetically.
     "Perhaps you should get some sleep."
     Jimain drained his tumbler and rose lithely to his feet.
     "An excellent idea, shahana. The rest will be most welcome."
     "Take the decanter with you."
     Jimain raised an eyebrow, then smiled and inclined his head.
     "Thank you."
     Enaviel chuckled.
     "It'll help you sleep..."
     Laughing quietly, Jimain reached a hand towards Meren.
     "Come, sweetheart."
     Allowing him to pull her easily upright, Meren turned and hugged their hostess affectionately.
     "Thanks for putting us up" * - and putting up with us.*
     Enaviel smiled.
     "It's no inconvenience at all. You sleep well and we'll speak later: I'm looking forward to hearing all the gossip!" *Dwaine'll be out, so we won't need to vocalise.*
     "Ah, good! And we want to hear what's been happening here, too." Meren yawned again, pulling away from the older female. *Ach, I need to sleep. Speak with you later!*

As the sun breached the horizon, unseen behind the heavy snow-filled clouds, Meren curled against Jimain's side with her head on his shoulder: the warrior stroked her hair as she drifted slowly into sleep. She needed the rest. They had a lot to talk about on the morrow.