Book of Fates ✔

The journey begins

The skies in the room were yet merged in the haze of dawn when Anya opened her eyes. The dizzying heights bewildered, and startled, and stupefied her. A few moments had passed before she grasped the reality and remembered all it was just the bizarre interior of Kelas. The slumber left her limbs instantly.

Wait... I'll be late!

After brushing her teeth and dressing up simultaneously, Anya slung the backpack over her shoulder, and hurried out of her room, along the hallway and down the stairs. Nikk's crystal gift was now hanging from her neck, and she quickly hid it under her top, taking the stairs two at a time. If Daphne saw the pendant, there'd be another tirade about 'the earthling's uselessness'.

Whatevs, I won't retreat.

For the first time in her life, Anya felt like she was finally going the right direction, like she had finally found the missing piece of her soul, her very existence, like she had a chance to prove herself worthy of something-and not just something, but everything! Excitement kindled Anya's heart.

When she descended the broad steps to the main hall, it was still early, but the daitias were all there and ready to set off. Eirney wasn't late even; he was packing his bag, jabbering to Klliss and Naaek.

Not far from them, Daphne talked to her ominous friends. For a fraction of a second, Anya's gaze met that of Daphne's. The daitian winced as if was doused with a bucket of icy cold water, and averted her eyes quickly, her expression sulky and irritated.

I wasn't going to say hello anyway, Anya thought and started toward Nikk, who stood aloof, leaning against the wall, lost in thoughts. I'd better-

"Are you ready for some heroic deeds?" Radiating with enthusiasm, Amarillis hopped in Anya's way.

"Um... I guess so," Anya nodded slowly, watching Rill's swift fingers running through her pink hair, plaiting it into a braid. "Wasn't your hair green yesterday?"

"Yep," Rill jerked her chin up, proud. "A new adventure's calling for a new me! Do you like it?"

Suppressing laughter bubbling up her throat, Anya gave a shrug. "You're amazing." Rill's outfit was as crazy as always-rainbow colored leggings, a strappy top and a fringe vest -the spirit of adventure in flesh and blood.

"I knew you'd like it!" A full smile blossomed on Amarillis's face. She opened her mouth to say something, but Klliss interrupted her as he approached.

"Here," he handed Anya a passport.

Anya looked at the document, and then raised her eyes to Klliss in confusion. It was her photo there, no doubts, but the name and the signature suggested different. "It's fake?"

Klliss chuckled, amusement sparked in his eyes. "Technically yes, practically no one will ever see the difference."

"Why to change my name?" Anya glanced at her passport once again. She was Anne Elliot now.

"Your real identity can draw unwanted attention.Klli Do you think Nikk is actually Nikk? Or," Klliss pointed at Daphne, "Daph's ID says Daphne From-Another-Planet Aurion?"

Hearing her name, Daphne glared at him. "I asked you not call me Daph anymore."

Klliss's shoulders stiffed. "You ask for too much sometimes," he replied without looking at her.

Astarta appeared in one of the archways, and the others abruptly grew quiet. The chief eyed everyone as she walked over to the center of the hall, her gray hair shimmering in the fluorescent lights.

"I am glad to see all the members of the mission here," Asta began in her permanently impassive voice. "We've been tarrying on Earth too long, seeking out for the means to prevail in the war. The people of Sutāla expect us to succeed, thus we have no right to let them down. Once we find The Book of Fates..."