FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

"Hey, Captain!" Alexei heard a voice call. Alexei lifted himself quickly, still groggy and now a bit dizzy. Alexei groaned and listed to the static from an unfound speaker-comm. The room was dark, save the eerie glow of the pale moonlight from a few small moons, so Alexei felt around for the comm.

"Captain, are you there?"

"I'm here," Alexei grumbled to himself. He still couldn't find the panel.

"Well, is he there?" another voice said.

"I don't know. He's not answering."

Alexei stopped then concentrated on Alyster, specifically, on his mind and his knowledge of the ship... In every quarters there is a comm panel beside the light switch, and in later models beside the bed. However, this design was later replaced and eventually forgotten with newer, more powerful technologies. In the most current design, which hasn't been in major production since the Commune invasion, simply an audio command will suffi-

Alexei shook his head. "Christ," he said to himself, getting up, "he even thinks too much." Alexei walked drowsily to the comm panel and pressed a button. "I'm here," he said loudly.

"Captain?" It sounded like Raiche.

"What is it?"

"We're coming up to some planet. You want us to land?"

"What planet is it?"

"I don't know, sir. All I can tell you is it's relatively small, about the size of Earth, and likely uninhabited."

"Does it support life?"

"Would I suggest we land otherwise?"

Alexei could hear laughing on the other side of the comm. He rolled his eyes and continued, "Are there any signs of civilization?"

"Not from what I can tell. Most of it is a pale pink, which suggests it's a desert planet. We could look around, if you're interested."

"Might as well. I'm coming up." Alexei looked around the barely-lit room and found his pants, not bothering with his shorts. They were still dirty, anyway. Alexei left his room and headed to the end of the cold corridor and opened the loud hatch. Now on an unstable catwalk above the cargo hold, he noticed Kaelin, Axiroth, and Eskelle down below.

The three were sitting on some large empty containers talking. They waved and smiled as Alexei came out from the sleeping quarters.

Alexei waved back as he continued along the catwalk. He entered the main hub of the ship where he met Alyster reading.

"Good morning, Captain Alexei," Alyster said, closing his book. "You slept a long while."

"Yeah, I was tired. What're you reading?"

"Just some old Olissian science journals."

"Oh. Did you ever write a science journal? You were a scientist, weren't you?"

"Of sorts, yes. I was an engineer, but I worked on very important scientific research as well. I helped develop much of the Olissian technology, including most of this ship, which helped thrust our people further into space. Unfortunately, that was also our downfall, as the Commune were very interested in our research and, of course, you know well how that turned out. But to answer your question, Captain, I have written several scientific journals. While most of it was merely theory, the Commune took all of my, and most of my colleagues, journals and papers, post their arrival. "

Alexei grunted, suggesting intrigue. "I'm sorry to hear that."

"Do not worry yourself, Captain, for all my theories and ideas are locked securely up here." Alyster tapped his head, off of which grew very long, dark flaccid horns which looked more like smooth, three-inch-thick dreads, tapering off to a point as it grew several metres down to the floor, with his clawed-finger.

Alexei smiled and walked into the cockpit. There he saw Jorhn and Raiche piloting the ship, looking quite lax as they did. "Are we there yet?" Alexei asked with a chuckle.

"Almost, Captain. We're entering the atmosphere now."

Alexei sighed. His joke was lost on the Lumarians. He held the back of Jorhn's chair as the ship began to shake.

Alyster suddenly popped his head through the cockpit hatch and said, "Three, two, one..." The shaking suddenly stopped.

The three looked over at Alyster while still carefully piloting the ship. They were still in entry.

"How did you know it would stop?"

With a smile, Alyster explained. "I invented and designed the Vibrational Damping Systems for this ship, or VDS. The tremors only last a few moments until the system is able to assess then calculate the necessary adjustments to ensure precise equilibrium."

"Well," Alexei started, "you just don't cease to amaze me." He put his paws on Jorhn's and Raiche's shoulders. "You two could learn a lot from him."

The two groaned. Finally, the ship had entered the less-than-turbulent atmosphere and flew just above the sandy surface. Up ahead they could see what appeared to be a city, which blended easily into the golden sandy terrain. As the ship drew nearer, they noticed there was very little activity and the place looked abandoned.

"I don't sense any life," Alexei said. "Why is every planet we go to deserted?"

"We're just lucky, I guess," Jorhn replied.

"Why the hell are we here, anyway?"

"'Cause you wanted us to surprise you," Raiche said with a smile. "Surprised?"

"Not particularly."

"Well, I tried. Wanna look around, anyway?"

"Sure, why not. Land this boat wherever there's room. Then meet me in the cargo hold."

"Yes, sir," Jorhn confirmed.

Alexei and Alyster left the cockpit and made their way down to the cargo hold. They met Axiroth, Eskelle, and Kaelin who were still lounging about.

"What's up, Alexei?" Kaelin asked.

"We're going to land on some deserted planet."

"Why?" Axiroth asked.

"Because I want to. It wouldn't hurt to just look around. We might find something useful, anyway."

"Like what? A home?"

Alexei glared at Axiroth. "Perhaps," he said.

Suddenly, with a bit of a jolt, the ship landed and Raiche and Jorhn emerged from the cockpit.

"I called Kavhen and Graunta and told them to meet us here. They should be along shortly."

"Thank you, Raiche," said Alexei. "I'm going to look around this city a bit, if anyone's interested in joining me. The rest of you can do whatever the hell you want."

Kaelin hopped up and grabbed Alexei's left arm. "I'll come with you. Maybe it'll give us some alone time."

Alexei giggled, then looked up, blushing.

"Aww, isn't that sweet?" Jorhn said, putting his arm around Eskelle. "The little kids want some alone time," Jorhn continued in a babyish tone.

"Shut up," Alexei said, laughing.

"What's going on?" Kavhen asked from up on the catwalk.

Alexei, who was linked to Kaelin, turned awkwardly. "We're going out to explore this city a bit."

"And then they'll have some alone time," Jorhn blurted out again.

Eskelle smacked Jorhn. "Cut it out, you ass."

Kavhen glared down at Alexei and Kaelin. "Well good for them."

Alexei scowled at Jorhn then looked up to the unimpressed and uninterested Kavhen. "You're welcome to come exploring with us. No one else seems too interested."

Kavhen thought about that for a moment.

"Actually," Alyster cut in, "I would like to take a look around the place. I am very curious about the people who built this city and why they are gone."

"Alright, then, you can come along, too. Anyone else?"

"Do we have to go with you?" Axiroth asked.

"No, I suppose you don't. You can do whatever the hell you want. I was just asking."

"Well then I want to explore, but I want to explore without you."

"And that's your prerogative. Kaelin and I are leaving now. Do what you will." With that, the pair opened the large cargo hatch and walked down into hot, sandy surface just over a hundred metres away from the city. Shortly after the two left, the entire team left the ship and slowly followed behind.

"Man, this heat is killing me," Kaelin complained. "Why did you land the ship so far away?"

"You'll have to ask Jorhn about that one." Alexei looked back at his team, who were also feeling the sun's blistering heat. Alyster, however, seemed fine. "Hey, Alyster, why the hell aren't you bothered by the heat?"

"Olissians are naturally resistant to heat, as our home planet is quite torrid. Our three suns make darkness nearly impossible."

"Which explains your dark skin, huh?"

"Yes. We have evolved to absorb the heat, in fact, and process it naturally into energy. That is why I do not often eat during the day."

"Well, you learn something new every day," Alexei muttered. The rest of the trip continued in silence until the team reached the edge of the city.

Many of the sand-coloured buildings were very plain and looked mostly residential. Passing through the streets, nothing caught anyone's attention. It was clear if they were going to explore anything of interest, they would have to make their way to the centre of the city. The team could see, from close to the edge, a large rising structure on the western-most side. It was very tall and very impressive. The structure, the tower, stood upon an equally impressive set of stone stairs, making up at least a quarter of its height, and rose into the deep blue sky. There were few windows on the building, however the ones visible were large, yet small by comparison, and showed unique designs of whatever creatures had once inhabited this planet, possibly even of their deities. This building was obviously designed as a symbol of power, the quintessence, even, of the entire city. This was where decisions were made and records were kept.

"Where are we even going?" Axiroth complained.

"For the last time, Ax, we're going to that building there. Now quit asking."

"Can't we stop and rest for a minute? It's a million degrees out here."

Alexei stopped. He was very irritable, mostly because of the heat. He could tell the Lumarians were also very agitated. "Like I said before, you can do whatever the hell you want, Ax. I'm going there," Alexei pointed to the large building, "because I can tell that's where anything of use is going to be! If you want to explore these stupid houses, go right the fuck ahead!"

"Well," Axiroth drew closer to Alexei, "maybe I don't want to go there."

"Then don't."

"Maybe I just wanna punch you in your furry face right now!"

Alexei leaned in and spoke in a deep, threatening voice. "Just try me, punk. 'Cause I would love nothing better than to kick your ass all the way back to Lumar."

"That's it!" Axiroth threw back his fist and swung hard at Alexei.

The Lumarians, although exhausted, threw themselves forward, trying to stop the fight.

Alexei stepped back, easily avoiding the punch. He growled then threw back his own fist, which was caught by Kaelin. "What th-." Alexei looked from Axiroth, who was being held by Raiche and Graunta, then to his right at Kaelin.

"Don't waste your energy," Kaelin begged.

Alexei looked back at Axiroth, who had mostly calmed down, baring his teeth. Still glaring at the young Lumarian, he forcefully took back his arm. He turned and continued on his way, followed shortly by the rest.

The remains of the trip was spent in complete silence. They finally reached the centre of the city, which was mostly a large open space surrounded by large buildings and some sculptures.

Alexei stood in awe of the large tower overhead. He turned and addressed his team. "Alright, I'm going to go look inside. You guys can do whatever, so long as you meet back here in a few hours."

The tired and sweaty Lumarians grumbled as they slowly dispersed, mainly looking around.

Alexei continued up the stairs to the tower along with Kaelin and Alyster further behind. As he approached the top of the stairs, he became much more aware of the grandeur and importance of this building. The doors, which had just started to peak over the top of the stairs, were incredible, weather-worn wooden doors which were set in about two metres under a grand pointed-archway. The archways themselves, along a smooth, plain rounded stone wall, were set in around four metres, the rest of the tower seemingly held up my massive, intricately decorated columns.

Upon closer inspection, now almost half way up the stairs, Alexei could see even the walls, too, had intricate patterns relieved into the stone. The patterns, while nothing pictorial or narrative, gave the building, in Alexei's opinion, an almost Celtic touch. He was impressed at the dedication and the intricacies of the design.

Alexei and a very tired Kaelin finally reached the top of the stairs, the tower looming eerily over their heads. Alexei rubbed his paw across the smooth and dusty door. He was able to determine it was very heavy, although nothing he couldn't handle. Alexei pushed slightly on the door, wanting to preserve its splendor.

"I think you need to push harder than that, Alexei," Kaelin said, catching his breath.

Alexei pushed harder and heard loud cracks. Dust, or sand, fell from the door.

Finally Alyster reached the top. "Is something the matter, Captain?"

"I'm trying to open the door."

"And you cannot do it? I am surprised."

"Hey, that's what I said!" Kaelin laughed.

"You could give me a paw," Alexei snapped. "Either that or I just tear the whole wall down."

"Alright, alright," Kaelin said, patting Alexei's back. "Never figured you'd care. It's not like anyone's home to give a shit."

The three shortly began pushing together, and with relative ease, the large wooden door creaked open. Light poured into the massive chamber within the doors as the group walked in, looking about. The main floor, beautifully tiled, had several desks and benches strewn about, the chamber surrounded completely with large metal shelves. They appeared to contain an innumerable amount of books and papers and documents. In the very centre of the grand chamber was round table with what looked like flat, dark control panels. The three were in complete awe as they continued into the middle and looked at the chambers above. The structure, most likely a library of sorts, continued infinitely upward with a countless amount of floors or balconies. They could see the metal railings of each floor until it became a dark blur above their heads, and just the tops of the metal bookshelves. There must have been millions upon millions of documents in this building alone.

The three stood breathless in the darkened room, their only source of light coming from the barely-open door. Alyster, finally taking his eyes off the endless void above him, examined the round table, angled slightly to eliminate leaning onto it. He brushed his clawed hand over the smooth dark surface of the flat control panel. There was no response. He continued to study the control panels around the entire table.

"What's up, Alyster?" Alexei asked.

"I am searching to activate this control panel."

"Good luck. The place probably hasn't been with power for years. Probably decades, if not more. If this place still worked, why would it be abandoned?"

"That is exactly what I wish to discover. Why would they not take this library, this incredible wealth of information, with them?"

"Assuming they left willingly," Kaelin cut in.

Alexei and Alyster looked over at Kaelin.

Kaelin shrugged. "I haven't been in space as long as you two have, but would it surprise either of you if they were all wiped out somehow?"

"The kangaroo has a point," Alyster said.

"Of course, you also have to consider how they'd get all these books onto a ship in a short amount of time. It would take forever to move all these."

"Another good point," Alyster praised the roo.

Alexei then turned, for a moment, to the doors. He stared at them, concentrating. Suddenly, the doors began to open wider with another loud creak. More light began to pour into the library until the doors could no longer open wider. He turned back to his friends. "Well, it seems this is as much light as we're gonna get."

"So it would seem," Alyster reluctantly agreed. He had hoped the tower still had some

power. "Perhaps it only needs repairing, damaged by time. I will, then, try to do that myself."

"Hey, you know this stuff better than anyone," Alexei said. "And it's not like you're going to make it worse, right?"

"We shall see."

"Alright, well, do what you want." Alexei turned to Kaelin and grabbed his wrist, "C'mon, let's look around."

Kaelin giggled as the two seemed to prance away. Alexei felt very warmhearted and happy at that moment, holding paws with his mate and running through the massive, alien library.

They stopped at a bookshelf marked with what appeared to be a stylized "h," likely an alien symbol. Kaelin pulled a random book off the shelf and opened it to the middle. "Hey, Alexei," he began, "can you read this?"

Alexei looked over Kaelin's shoulder and at the book. "Um. No. Can you?"

The heavy-bound book was written in an alien script, likely illegible to anyone but that species. "Well," Kaelin continued, "I'm not sure exactly, but I think it's something to do with sexual desires."

Alexei laughed. "And what about sexual desires does it say?"

"Well - now, my knowledge in alien linguistics is bit rusty, so bear with me - it looks like it says something about giving into your natural, or carnal, desires whenever the opportunity presents itself, in order to maintain a healthy relationship."

"Oh," Alexei laughed, playing along, "is that so? Well, that's a very curious book you've found there. What else does it say?"

"Nothing," Kaelin said, slamming the book and throwing it aside. The book banged loudly as it hit the floor, sending loud echos throughout the entire library. He pressed up against Alexei, pushing the lion into the wall, and held his face close to Alexei's. "The book didn't say much more than that, Alexei. It simply gave very detailed descriptions of the following steps." Kaelin then pressed his lips against Alexei's.

Alexei went partially limp as he felt the roo's warm lips caress his own. He raised his right paw and held it to Kaelin's face, gaining better control. He could feel the roo's powerful tongue try to enter his mouth, and soon enough he allowed it in. They continued kissing passionately for a few good minutes. Alexei pulled his lover away for a moment, keeping his paws on the roo's hips, rubbing slightly. "Kaelin," Alexei said, breathing heavily, "I don't think we should do this. Not here, not with Alyster right over there."

"Oh, he can't see us. If we're going to be lost in space, Alexei, we might as well make the best of it."

"He'll be able to hear us, Kaelin. I don't think-"

"Enough thinking! C'mon, let's go to the top. You can get us up there, right?"

Alexei sighed. He grabbed Kaelin's waist and lifted himself, and the roo, off the smooth and sandy floor. He flew slowly out toward the middle, out from under the balcony, and looked up.

Kaelin held on tight. "How far do you think it goes?"

"Beats me, but we're gonna find out." Alexei raised up to the next floor, looking down at Alyster, who was working away at the control panels. "Hey, Alyster, we're going to see how far up this place goes. Will you be alright?"

"I will be fine, Captain. Do not get yourself lost."

Alexei laughed and shot up quickly.

Kaelin made a noise as they rose. The sudden shift in gravity caught the roo off guard.

Alexei continued upward, taking note of the symbols marking each floor. A few looked familiar, but he couldn't be certain. Alexei suddenly felt Kaelin start to shake. "What's the matter?"

"Oh, nothing, hon. I'm just... Well, we're pretty damn high."

Alexei giggled. "I'm not going to drop you, if that's what you're thinking."

"How can I be so sure?"

Alexei scoffed. "What, you honestly think I'd drop you?" He stopped in midair, holding Kaelin closer.

"Of course not, but fear isn't rational, Alexei. Just because you've never been scared in your life doesn't mean-"

"Hey, I've been scared! I know what fear is." Alexei continued slowly upward again. "I was afraid I was never going to see you again six years ago."

"Oh, well that's different, sweetie. I'm just talking about basic, simple, completely irrational phobias. Obviously," Kaelin clung onto Alexei tighter, "you never knew I was afraid of heights. I just assumed you knew."

"Then why did you suggest we go up?"

"Because I wanted some privacy for us. You and I haven't been alone together for a while, and I thought we were both due of some, you know... loving."

A sudden surge of guilt rushed through Alexei's gut. He began to sweat as he remembered the night he had shared with is brother no more than twelve hours ago. "Yeah," Alexei said nervously, "it'll be fantastic."

Alexei shot up faster this time. It was pitch black now, this far up the tower, but he could somehow feel he was nearing the top. Alexei came to a near halt as he felt the ceiling against his paw. He touched something round and glassy, but couldn't quite tell what it was. He assumed a light source of some kind. Alexei moved to the side and got himself onto the uppermost balcony. He finally released Kaelin.

Kaelin, now on his feet, staggered to the side. "Thank God," he said, falling to his trembling knees. "I can't see a damn thing, though." He then waved his paw in front of his face, unable to see a thing.

"I wish Alyster would get those damn lights on. I wonder how long it's been since any one has been up here? Further more, I wonder how they'd get up this high? There didn't seem to be any elevators or whatever."

"Well, maybe you just missed it. It's not like we looked all along the wall down there."

"Yeah, true." Alexei, following Kaelin's thoughts, found the roo on the floor and held his paws, now sitting next to him. "But, hey, now we're alone."

Kaelin smiled, or so Alexei assumed. Although Alexei could not see Kaelin's physical self, he could feel his emotions and could read his thoughts. Alexei pushed himself further toward the roo, pushing him onto his back.

Kaelin yelped as Alexei kneeled, accidentally, on his tail.

"Sorry," Alexei said. "I can't see a thing."

"Well, just watch where you're putting your knee. You almost nailed me."

Alexei laughed. "I'd watch what I'm doing if I could see."

Kaelin giggled. "Fair enough."

Alexei awkwardly climbed atop the lying roo, trying desperately not to crush what shouldn't be crushed. He felt Kaelin's body in order to get his bearings.

Kaelin lay there, moving about and trying to get comfortable.

Alexei finally felt Kaelin's left nipple ring through his thick sweater. "Ah ha," he said aloud. Alexei them positioned himself accordingly and nuzzled close to Kaelin's face. He placed his paws on the floor just beside Kaelin's head, barely missing his ears, and his knees just below Kaelin's hips. Alexei lowered his head and kissed Kaelin softly, somewhere on his face.

"Alexei," Kaelin started, "That's my eye."

"Oh, sorry."

Kaelin raised his head slightly as Alexei lowered his. Their lips finally met and they began to kiss each other slowly and carefully. Alexei started to get a feel, now, of where and how his mate was positioned. Suddenly, he could see everything. All around him was complete darkness, but Kaelin stood out brightly in the void. Alexei moved around slowly, fondling and caressing Kaelin with gentle ease.

Kaelin, too, was able to feel and sense his mate's body. Everything, despite the complete absence of light, worked to perfectly and so naturally.

Alexei coursed his paws up and down Kaelin's chest and stomach, feeling every sensual muscle as it passed under his rough and metal pads. He moved his paws down to feel along and up the roo's ribs, enjoying his soft and bumpy sides. As he did this, Alexei gradually lifted Kaelin's sweater up his body.

Kaelin, on his back, ran his paws all across Alexei's body, getting a feel for the various ridges and imperfections all over his soft body. He continuously ran his right paw under Alexei's left pectoral, gently caressing the deep scar which ran just under the breast. With his left paw, Kaelin massaged Alexei's right shoulder and the scar which ran across his upper arm. The scars which riddled Alexei's otherwise soft body was an incredible turn-on for the roo. Each time his paws passed over one of the larger scars, cold and pleasurable shivers went up his spine, as well as a familiar warm tingling in his pants.

Alexei now had Kaelin's thick sweater pulled up to just below his nipples. Leaving the sweater for a moment, Alexei ran his paws once again over Kaelin's sensual stomach. He enjoyed this greatly as the tips of his short claws reached nearly half way to Kaelin's back. There was something about this skinny roo's stomach that turned Alexei on more than anything. Alexei murred as he continued to feel up Kaelin's stomach and chest.

Kaelin, only able to feel Alexei's warm and cool touch caress him softly, groaned slightly. He groaned again as he felt his pants getting tighter in the crotch.

Alexei then continued to work off Kaelin's sweater. He pulled it up higher, then, a moment later when Kaelin threw up his arms, he removed it completely. Alexei tossed it aside, careful not to throw it over the edge of the circular balcony. He heard Kaelin giggle.

"It's too bad you don't have a shirt I can remove so sensually," the roo said, laughing slightly.

"Well," Alexei said softly, "I might need some help getting my pants off."

Kaelin giggled as he moved his paws slowly down Alexei's scarred midriff. He found Alexei's belt and began fiddling with it, unable to see what he was doing. He then shook it vigorously. "How the hell do you work these things?"

Alexei, now on his knees and resting, almost, on Kaelin's thighs, just below his crotch, placed his paws on Kaelin's. He, his fingers atop the roo's, pressed the buckle just right. The hatch released and the belt came apart. Alexei then removed his paws and let Kaelin remove the belt completely. Alexei felt as his heavy black pants fell, stopping just at the top of his hips. They now hung off his hips very loosely, able to be pulled off easily. Alexei heard as his belt skidded across the dusty floor to his left. He then found Kaelin's paws and placed them on his hips, just above the top of his pants. He then scooted forward, up past Kaelin's crotch, and rested his rump just on the roo's skinny, yet sensually muscular, stomach.

Kaelin rubbed his paws up and down a bit, teasing the lion, until he found the pants and then the front. He also managed, with much ease, to find the gift Alexei was hiding within. Kaelin fondled the hard package through the pants for a moment, and as he did a sharp stroke of pleasure struck his own organ. Kaelin moaned as he fondled Alexei's fuzzy balls. He then unhooked the button and unzipped the pants, pulling apart the two halves. Kaelin gasped silently as Alexei's now throbbing cock sprung out of his black pants. Although he could not see it, Kaelin knew it was there and could sense the pulsating organ just above his chest. He let the pants drop to Alexei's knees, also draping over his own hips, and gently touched the lion's hard cock.

Alexei suddenly felt Kaelin's warm paws delicately squeeze his throbbing shaft. He also heard Kaelin moan as the paws started to fondle his organ. Alexei closed his eye, despite the darkness, and leaned his head back, concentrating only on the roo's touches. He felt the warm paws stroke back and forth, over and over, and nothing else. Alexei, almost unwittingly, began to purr and moan slightly at the sensations. He writhed around slightly as the paws, not gripping tightly, slid up and down, slowly and daintily, one occasionally stopping to fondle his warm balls, which gave a constant, yet not overpowering, sense of pleasure. He could also feel Kaelin's tensing abs on his rump. Alexei, his tail flicking back and forth almost uncontrollably, stood up above Kaelin, his pants now fallen to his feet, and stepped out of them. He tossed them aside then got back onto his knees, still atop the roo. He murred as he pressed himself slowly up against Kaelin, kissing his face softly. He then felt those same warm paws caress his lowers ribs as they continued kissing. Alexei lay on top of Kaelin with his forearms out to the side of the roo's head and his rump just above Kaelin's crotch. At the base of his tail he could feel Kaelin's throbbing cock trying to burst out of his pants. He continued to make out lovingly with his mate.

Kaelin was feeling an immense pressure within his pants and Alexei continued to arouse his desire. He groaned loudly each time his and Alexei's lips met. His cock begged painfully for more as it tried to bust through his zipper. He continued caressing Alexei's soft, war-torn body as the lion kissed him tenderly on his lips and his neck, Kaelin making pleasured noises as he did. Finally, he had had enough. "A-Alexei," Kaelin started between breaths, "you've got-gotta get my pants off. It's killing me... plus you're closest."

Alexei laughed, his lips pressed against Kaelin's neck. "You serious?"

"Uh-huh," Kaelin confirmed.

Alexei giggled as he sat up and twisted around, feeling around Kaelin's nether regions for the top of his pants. Teasingly, Alexei massaged and fondled Kaelin through his pants, although not for too long; Kaelin began to whimper as Alexei tormented him. The lion had finally located the top and carefully unhooked the button and unzipped the fly. "The rest is up to you, lover." Much like his own, Kaelin's cock leaped out of his pants. Almost instinctively, Alexei grabbed hold with his left paw. He stroked it with relative speed with his metal paw.

Kaelin, still unused to the warm and cold sensation, cried out as his cock was so quickly taken by the lion. He gripped at the smooth hard floor and squirmed around as his organ filled with much fervor, letting out long and muted moans. His legs writhed about, slowly working off the pants, as the passion grew. His quiet moans quickly became louder. As Alexei sat atop the roo's stomach, fapping him vigorously, Kaelin caressed the lion's inner thighs and called out his name quietly, between his moaning.

Alexei laughed between breaths as he fapped his mate. Extremely aroused by Kaelin's soft touches, especially as his paws grew in proximity to his sensitive organs, Alexei made a small noise and felt a small amount of precum drip from his beating cock. He felt it course slowly down his hardened shaft, then faster as more leaked out. Alexei yelped as he suddenly felt Kaelin's soft paws on his warm cock.

Kaelin groaned, now feeling the precum, and lifted a paw to his mouth, licking and tasting the sweet essence. "Mmm," he noised. As he lapped up the small amount of pre, still feeling Alexei working away, a sharp sensation filled his gut. He grunted as he tried to speak. "Keep going," Kaelin said quickly. "More..."

Alexei smiled as he picked up his pace. Through his metal paw, he could almost feel what was coming from within his mate. As he continued to fap the roo, feeling Kaelin's climax quickly approaching through his paw, he began to sense it within himself. His cock, throbbing greatly, started to fill, slightly, with the same ecstasy his mate felt. He opened his eye, sweating, unable to comprehend how this was possible. He shook his head as Kaelin's orgasm came.

Kaelin let out a loud cry and instantly arched his back, his head thrown back, as his orgasm struck instantly, his hot seed exploding out of him and onto Alexei's metal paw.

Alexei cried out, too, as the incredible sensation rushed in, then out, of his own cock. Panting heavily, still gripping and slowly stroking Kaelin's softening cock, he was still perplexed at what had just happened. He could feel the orgasmic uproar leaving his organ, yet it produced no spooge. He was still as horny and as throbbing as he was moments ago. Alexei then chose to ignore this phenomenon and finished what he was doing.

Kaelin writhed around as Alexei fapped his flaccid and cum-coated cock. He leaned forward slightly and grabbed the mechanical arm, pulling the claw to his face. Feeling very warm now, blushing as he stared up at where Alexei's face was, Kaelin kissed the metal paw, now licking and consuming his own warm spooge. He murred out of satisfaction and he slowly caressed his mate, specifically his thighs.

Alexei, feeling only Kaelin's warm body beneath his rump and his tender paws on his legs, shifted back and leaned forward. He pushed himself back so he was now lying atop the roo, their noses nuzzling.

"Thank you," Kaelin said quietly. He was still panting slightly and sweating. He wrapped his arms around Alexei's back, rubbing up and down his back ribs and sharing their warmth.

"I love you, Kaelin," Alexei said softly.

Kaelin giggled as he kissed Alexei gently on the cheek.

Alexei purred then shifted again backward, trailing his paws in front of him, coursing over Kaelin's nipples and breasts and down his subtle abs, then over his crotch and eventually rested them on the floor side Kaelin's thick-based tail. Alexei rubbed the roo's tailhole gently with his right paw then leaned down and sniffed the area. He was suddenly filled with Kaelin's stimulating aura.

Kaelin, unable to see what exactly Alexei was doing, felt warm breath pass over his tailhole. He began to caress his own nipples as he felt a wet muscle surge over his tailhole over and over. He felt an unusual tingling as the powerful, mucus-covered muscle entered his rectum. Kaelin made a sort of yelping noise as it did. "What're you doing?" he asked.

"I forgot the lube," Alexei replied simply.

Kaelin laughed. He then felt Alexei's flesh and steel arms under his legs, respectively, then he felt his legs and rump lift. "What're you-"

Alexei interrupted Kaelin by pressing his already-wet cock against, and in slightly, the roo's tailhole.

Kaelin's eye widened. "Oh..." he said at length, letting himself go limp as he let out his breath. He allowed Alexei to ease into his body.

Alexei, now holding a relaxed, yet nervous, roo in his arms, pushed himself forward. He ascended quicker than usual.

Kaelin, the sensation seeming more prominent now than in the light, gasped at the sudden change in pressure. His tailhole, although somewhat experienced, stretched much faster than he was accustomed. It pained him, slightly, to have Alexei enter his bowels so quickly without lube.

Alexei felt the tight squeeze of Kaelin's warm bowels on his throbbing cock. His own shaft, too, pained somewhat as he penetrated the roo's body. He grunted and groaned as he moved forward.

Kaelin cried out quietly in pain. He was trying to be strong.

Alexei, within moments, had completely inserted his cock within his mate. It was still an unusual yet extremely pleasurable feeling having Kaelin's tight entrails fondle and squeeze his throbbing cock. "How are you holding up?"

"Ugh... I'll be fine."

"I don't have to continue."

"Please," Kaelin begged, "do as you will. It's really not that bad. I'm just not used to such a small amount of lube, you know?"

Alexei, through the darkness, smiled. "Alright, but tell me if you want me to stop."

Kaelin nodded, despite knowing Alexei couldn't see it.

Alexei then exited Kaelin's bowels quickly, exciting the roo greatly, then applied more of his mucus-lube. It smelled strange, but he had no choice. When he was good and ready, Alexei once again continued up Kaelin's tailhole. He moved much quicker this time, and in just a few seconds he had fully reentered the roo's body. He removed himself again and then began, slowly but surely, pumping away at Kaelin's rump.

The pair grunted and moaned and writhed in almost perfect harmony.

Alexei's pulsating cock drove through Kaelin's body with such precision; Kaelin's hips rotated and thrust in concordance with his mate's movements. They worked their bodies together as one, an amalgamation of two spirits, flowing seamlessly together. Like liquid, the pair moved fluidly as the mix of pain and pleasure melted into a singular sensation, blinding the furs further. All they could feel now was each other - their thoughts, their pains, their pleasures; Everything they had experienced - all ran together in a single euphoric uproar.

Alexei, feeling himself regressing back to his primal nature, let out an incredible roar. He pounded away almost ferociously at his mate. Panting heavily, Alexei let out a deep growl with each thrust, baring his teeth.

Kaelin, although he could not see his partner, could feel Alexei's power. He felt, deep within, the ferocity and incredible emotion pouring out of his mate. He was very frightened at that moment, and yet at the same time he had never felt safer. His tailhole, getting a harder workout than he could ever remember, burned with delight. Kaelin could feel Alexei's powerful aura around them, enshrouding the two in pure carnal lust. The sweat poured off Kaelin's face and body as the everlasting and relentless pleasure endured deep within his bowels.

Alexei continued, still snarling at every rough and powerful thrust, the sweat also pouring off him. He felt, now, like he does when in battle. His body was tired and exhausted, every muscle straining and burning. He was in pain and out of breath. And yet Alexei continued on. He continued to pound away at his enemies, getting incredible pleasure out of each and every blow. Alexei bared his teeth, growled, and narrowed his eyes as if focusing all his hate and pain into conquering his enemy; into pleasuring his mate.

Kaelin cried out in a long loud moan. This was like nothing he had felt before. His tailhole, and even his insides, burned with a searing delight.

Alexei pounded again and again, brutally beating the roo's rump. His paws felt up and down Kaelin's hips in harmony with his powerful thrusts. All Alexei could feel now was the sensation coursing through his groin. He continued to growl and roar primally, now digging his claws into Kaelin's rump, unable to control himself.

Kaelin let out quick yelps as he felt his partner dig his claws into him, grunting in between. He wasn't sure how much more punishment he could take, but he knew he couldn't stop now. He was frightened of his mate. He now feared what might happen if he wanted to quit. In amongst the darkness and the pain and the pleasure, a tear rolled down Kaelin's cheek.

Alexei continued ferociously, quickening his pace as best as his body would allow. Like a well oiled machine, Alexei thrust himself forward and back with powerful precision. He loud out a piercing roar as he began to feel his climax quickly approaching. He growled deeply, grunting with each fast thrust, and focused himself. Suddenly, Alexei's sharp orgasm snuck quickly upon him. He groaned fiercely as his throbbing cock unloaded a forceful amount of spooge into Kaelin's bowels.

Kaelin could feel, somehow in amongst his chaotic senses, the hot seed pouring into his gut. The warm shot of cum filled him quickly, and he could feel it within. Kaelin blushed and whimpered as Alexei unloaded himself, his fears quickly washing away. He felt another tear roll down his face.

Alexei slowed his pace now as his once-throbbing organ became soft. He retrieved his cock from his mate's gut, a small amount of spooge trailing behind, and massaged the hole gently with his tongue, lapping up the small amount of seed. Alexei panted and murred as he breathed in Kaelin's essence.

Kaelin, now feeling very warm and probably still blushing, smiled and made a satisfied noise as Alexei stroked his burning hole. As the euphoria wore off, Kaelin slowly came back to his senses - save the sense of sight.

Alexei stopped and crawled forward and lay, tummy to tummy, with Kaelin. He put his arms and his paws to Kaelin's warm face, and he felt Kaelin do the same.

The two murred together as Alexei rested his head on Kaelin's chest, rubbing his right nipple softly with his paw. They lay on the cool tile floor, sharing their warmth.

"That was perfect," Kaelin said softly.

Alexei, his head still on the roo's furry chest, nodded. He knew he had made the right choice. He said, softly, "You, Kaelin... you're mine, you're all for me. And nothing... nothing's gonna change that."

The two continued to lie together, their paws and legs slowly moving about, fondling each other gently and lovingly. In the total darkness, all they could hear was each others heartbeats, heavy panting and their soft fur rubbing together. Occasionally one would make a slight, satisfied moan as a paw passed over particular areas, but they remained otherwise silent.

Eventually, in amongst the dark void of the dusty library, Alexei fell asleep atop his mate. He felt just as he did on that night six years ago, when the two had mated for the first time. They had shared the same passion then as they still do now. Alexei was happy lying with his mate, and even more pleased at his decision to stay with him. They shared an inexplicable bond with one another, and nothing would pull them apart. Alexei smiled as his thoughts drifted into dreams, holding Kaelin tenderly.

* * *

Alexei woke to an unusual noise. Everything was still pitch black, and now he felt Kaelin squirming beneath him. Alexei, still naked, rolled onto his rump, propping himself up with his right paw, and sat beside his still-lying mate, listening.

"Wha..." Kaelin groaned tiredly. "What is that?"

Alexei sat and concentrated, listening. The noise grew louder. It seemed to be coming from the centre; the large drop. The curious lion got to his feet, feeling a bit groggy himself, and, after finding the edge, leaned over and peered into the void. He soon felt warm paws stroke his back, then up around his shoulders, finally two arms resting around his neck, loosely.

Kaelin held and leaned against the warm lion as he, too, peered over the edge, curious what the noise was. He kissed Alexei's cheek softly and whispered, "I wonder what it is."

Alexei turned his head to the right and returned the gesture, smiling warmly. "It sounds like a... popping noise of some kind. A bursting..." As he looked back down, he noticed something; it was a small light at the very end of the void, and it was growing. Suddenly, everything started to come together. As his grogginess wore off, and his short-term memory returning, he figured out what it was.

Kaelin caressed Alexei's back with his left paw and held the lion's right paw with the other. He noticed the light now, too. "Hmm..."

"Alyster," Alexei blurted out.

"Huh?"

"He must have fixed at least the lights in here. The power's back on."

As the loud drumming sound drew nearer, the two could slowly begin so see what was around them. They looked into each others eyes, still barely able to see.

The noise and the lights grew near and Alexei smiled with an almost giddy anticipation. Suddenly, an incredible green light blinded the two furs.

They both backed away from the centre, away from each other, covering their eyes and groaning. As they slowly opened their eyes, a brilliant green dome, in the centre of the ceiling above them, met their gaze. Other smaller, pure white lights, five in total, shone from the circular walls.

The top chamber was very different from the floors they had seen. All around the winding room were many large, dark coloured desks, each one with a small, flat red light on their fronts. There was sixteen in total.

"What the hell is this place?" Alexei said to himself.

"Beats me..." Kaelin replied. He stared at his mate, the reflection off the red pendant grabbing the roo's attention. He smiled, moving toward Alexei. "Still got my necklace, eh?"

"Yeah," Alexei replied, holding it, "I never take it off."

Kaelin reached forward, placing his paws on Alexei's chest, and kissed him passionately on the lips.

The two continued to make out, still naked. Alexei very much enjoyed the feeling of Kaelin's warm tongue press up against his own, as well as his lips touching sensually with the roo's.

The two were suddenly interrupted by a loud voice, which seemed to emanate from the green dome. "Captain? Can you hear me?" It was Alyster.

"What is it?" Alexei called out.

"I have restored power to the tower, sir."

"So I see."

"This desk on the bottom floor seems to be a sort of security station. There are many panels showing various floors, including yours. Except yours in shown in the centre; in a glowing green dome."

"So, can you see us now?"

"We can see everything, Captain!" someone shouted, likely from behind Alyster.

"Who was that?" Alexei asked.

"We're all here, now. You coming down or what?" It was Jorhn.

Alexei backed off and retrieved his pants. He looked back to see Kaelin doing the same.

"Is there anything up there, Captain?" Alyster asked.

"Yeah, but it's not like the other floors."

"And what are the other floors like?"

"Mostly like the one you're on, excluding the middle. They're full of books and records. They must have every piece of writing on the entire planet here, if not this entire system."

"Perhaps even the galaxy," Alyster speculated. "So tell me, then, what that floor is like?"

"Well, there aren't any books or even shelves of any description, and there's sixteen desks all the way around. They seem to be pointing toward the centre, where the large green dome is."

"Interesting. What are on the desks?"

"Hold on a second." Alexei, with Kaelin just wandering around, walked up to the glowing panel. Through the diffuse light there appeared to be flat buttons. Alexei ran his paw across the fluorescent panel. "There's a flat panel with a bunch of buttons."

"What do the buttons look like?"

"I don't know. They're black, I guess, with alien writing in the middle."

"Describe one to me."

Alexei sighed and rolled his eyes. He rubbed his finger across the panel and stopped at a random button. "This one looks kinda like a four, except the diagonal line stretches down to the bottom... and there's a dot above the diagonal line, then two more on the opposite side."

"Interesting," Alyster paused for a moment. "Press it, sir."

Alexei pressed the button, and just as he did, the green dome turned dark blue, almost black. "What the-" Alexei stepped back from the panel, soon joined by his mate. "Everything just went dark," Alexei shouted.

Suddenly, a brilliant light shone out of the dome, and just below and around it was an unusual, sphere-shaped grid with many dots of different sizes and shapes. In amongst the sphere were other larger and smaller circles, or as Alexei speculated, orbits. Suddenly, the shapes and orbits burst outward, filling the entire room.

Alexei stared in awe as a point of light drifted slowly past his face. The entire room was black, save the green dome and dozens, probably hundreds, of small holographic lights.

"Are you seeing this, Alyster?" Alexei asked toward the dome.

"Yes, I am. It is a hologram. More specifically, it is a star map.

"A star map," Alexei thought to himself. "Is it possible to download this information to the ship's computer?"

"It is possible, however I will have to configure the control panel."

"Do that, then."

"Should I download all the information, sir, or just the star maps?"

"You'd better do it all. I'm beginning to think all these books are just for show. Hard copies, if you will."

"Agreed, Captain. I will start as soon as possible."

"Why the hell don't you just come down and talk to us?" Axiroth blurted out.

"I'm coming now, Ax. Jesus." Alexei turned, Kaelin following behind, and stood up onto the ledge. He turned to Kaelin and held out his right paw.

Kaelin blushed slightly as he took his lover's paw.

Alexei pulled the roo up and over the edge. With Kaelin pressed tightly around Alexei, the lion made his descent, at first slowly. "You wanna see how long it takes to get to the bottom?"

"What do you mea-" Suddenly Kaelin dropped and was in a free-fall toward the first floor. He was crying out madly as the lights, appearing as five surrounding straight lines, whizzed by. He cocked his head toward Alexei, who was laughing the entire time.

Alexei reached over with his right arm and held Kaelin's paw. As the two fell fast together, it was incredibly exhilarating for both of them.

Kaelin's fear quickly washed away with Alexei's soft touch. He then felt himself falling faster, rather, felt as Alexei slowed his descent. He held on tighter to Alexei's paw, then felt the lion's cold metal paw grip his arm tightly.

Alexei gradually slowed himself and pulled Kaelin forward. He pulled the roo up and quickly put his right arm around his back, holding him close. Alexei continued to decent at this much slower, yet still significantly fast, pace. He finally saw the light from the bottom floor and soon he emerged from the long rise above his team.

The Lumarians watched as the pair descended back to the ground, holding each other. It was a very romantic sight.

"Aww," Jorhn started. "Well isn't that adorable? You know, we could hear you up there before Alyster got the power on."

Just as the two touched down, they had realized what Jorhn had said. They blushed uncontrollably.

"Hey," Jorhn continued, holding up his hands. "I don't care what you two do and where you do it, but as long as you keep it between yourselves, I'm okay."

Eskelle smacked Jorhn on the arm."Will you shut up and mind your own business?"

"I'm just saying... At one point it sounded like our Captain here was in a fight, and we had no way of gettin' to him."

Alexei covered his eye and shook his head.

Raiche cut in. "Can we just shut up about this entirely? Alyster, can you download the information?"

Alyster poked his head up from under the large desk. "I think I have it done now, sir. Just give me a moment and I will start the process."

"Excellent work, Alyster." Alexei turned to his team. "You guys find anything useful out there?"

They all shook their heads.

"It looks like anything worth taking is all right here," Eskelle said. "You guys ever find out what happened here?"

"Well, with any luck, this information will tell us something. But I would guess some kind of pandemic."

"Maybe they just wanted to get off this dirtball," Axiroth added.

Kavhen emerged silently from behind a bookself, holding a large, dusty, black-bound book. "Perhaps they all simply evolved or advanced themselves until this world, this place, this corporeal, universal existence, was not enough for them. They ascended up into the astral skies, leaving their physical selves behind - the useless shells of a long-forgotten, primitive race of unnatural beings. And this tower, this mausoleum of sorts, is their testament to this universe; the knowledge of all things."

There was an awkward pause in amongst the team.

"That is very profound, Kavhen," a voice sounded from the large library doors.

All at once, the entire team whipped their heads toward the familiar voice. They were shocked and surprised to see, silhouetted by the bright light shining brilliantly through the large archway, a young lion.

"Xavier!" Kavhen cried out like an immature child. His eyes lit up as he ran toward the small lion. He wrapped his arms around Xavier.

Alexei was more shocked than anything.

"Hey, there, big guy," Xavier said, laughing. "I missed you."

"I missed you, too," Kavhen replied. He hugged Xavier again.

Alexei walked forward. "What're you doing here?"

A bead of sweat rolled down Xavier's face. "Just had a bit of time off, so I thought I'd visit you guys. I miss you all."

"Time off from what?" Raiche asked.

"I'm working for the Lumarians now. Their army. I guess they really like me so they gave me some time off."

"And how'd you find us?" Raiche went on.

Xavier laughed.

"He's got the same powers as me, Raiche," Alexei cut in. "He just followed Kavhen's thoughts, I'm sure."

"You got me, Alexei." Xavier scratched the back of his head. He and Kavhen then walked into the middle of the chamber to join the group.

Alexei felt uneasy. He wasn't sure why, but he figured it had something to do with their questionable relationship. He had chosen to stay with Kaelin, but his brother could easily ruin that.

"So," Alexei said, "you just came to visit, huh?"

Xavier nodded.

"How long are you going to be staying?"

"I dunno. Until they call me back, I guess."

Alexei wasn't convinced. Xavier seemed too nervous to be just visiting. Alexei tried, without making it obvious, to read his brother's mind. As he concentrated, he got nothing clear. He concentrated harder.

"So," Xavier went on, interrupting Alexei's thoughts, "what're you guys doing out here?"

"Just lookin' around," Axiroth said. "Not like we've got anything better to do."

There was an awkward silence.

"Did you guys find anything interesting?" Xavier asked.

"Just look around," Alyster said, holding out his arms. "All this knowledge in one incredible building, just sitting here, ours for the taking. 'Did we find anything,' indeed."

Alexei smiled. He then had a thought. "What exactly do you do for the Lumarians, Xavier?"

"I'm in their army."

"Yeah, that's what you said. But someone with your power doesn't end up a common soldier. Surely you're one of their Elites."

Another bead of sweat rolled down Xavier's face. "Yeah, okay. I'm an Elite. So what?"

"So an Elite of your stature doesn't just get 'time off.' So, again, why are you here?"

Xavier was quite nervous now. He backed away from the group.

"Is it a mission?" Alexei went on, stepping forward.

"No, I... I..." Xavier was at a loss for words. He stopped and regained his composure. "Listen... I am on a mission."

The group listened intently to the young lion.

Xavier sighed. "I am the new Captain of the Elite Corps. I'm... your replacement, Alexei."

Alexei, although he loved his brother greatly, felt anxious and irritated. "I can't say I'm surprised. A natural choice, I suppose."

"Yeah, it is..." Xavier agreed.

"So, then, as the new Captain, what are your orders?"

"Alexei... I don't know how I'm supposed to tell you this. This is incredibly hard for me."

Alexei walked up to his brother and placed his paws on his shoulders. He said, quietly, "Don't be afraid. I'm your older brother and I love you. You know you can tell me anything."

"My mission... I was ordered to take you all out."

Alexei stood back, shocked. The rest of his team felt the same. "Who... who gave the order?"

Tears welled up in Xavier's eyes. "It was the Elders. They wanted you all executed."

"Then why not just do it on Lumar?" Kavhen asked. He was hurting the most.

"I don't know. To protect their image, I guess. It would have been an unpopular decision."

"You can't do this," Kavhen cried. "You wouldn't dare!"

"I'm sorry! I don't have a choice."

"Of course you have a choice, Xavier," Alexei said. "You're one of the most powerful beings in the galaxy and are bound to no one. Not like I was. I had nothing to live for, but you do."

"I'm sorry..." Xavier lowered his head.

Suddenly, a small group of Lumarians appeared in the large doorway. There were eight of them in total. The largest one walked up to Xavier, holding Graunta.

"This one was still in their ship, Captain." The Lumarian threw Graunta forward. "He came with us willingly."

"Thank you, Mikos," Xavier said with much sadness in his voice.

The new Elites held out their weapons, aimed at the defenseless ex-Elites.

"There is no way I will allow this slaughter to happen, Xavier," Alexei stepped forward. "Please, I beg you, brother, reconsider your orders."

"Do not listen to him, Captain," Mikos interrupted. "He is attempting to manipulate you. Your loyalties are to the Lumarian Empire. Do not forget that."

Xavier began to tremble as tears rolled down his cheek. The tension mounted as the silence grew longer.

"Xavier," Alexei begged, "you don't have to do this. The choice is yours."

"I... I don't know... what to do. I have my orders..."

Alexei sighed. "I can't make the decision for you. Just know, any attempt on my team's life will get you killed. If you want them, you will have to go through me."

There was another long silence.

Alexei continued, "I can destroy your men easily, with but a thought. And you can do the same to mine. The real battle, brother, is between you and I. Whatever happens then is up to the victor."

"I... I don't want to fight you, Alexei. Not after that nigh-" Xavier stopped himself and looked up at Alexei and his men, then to Kavhen. "Not after discovering you are my brother..."

"Wait, you two are brothers?" Jorhn cut in.

Alexei nodded.

"Guess I'm not surprised. You two are nearly identical."

"Enough of this inanity!" Mikos snapped. "Let us perform the execution and be rid of these Exiles. They are a plague and a disgrace to the Empire."

"Mikos, please..." Xavier rubbed his forehead in frustration. He was deeply saddened by the whole affair, and very confused. "I... don't know." He shut his eyes as more tears ran down his cheeks.

"If you don't want to fight me, Xavier, then don't. Nobody is forcing you to."

"If you do not perform your task," Mikos went on, "then we will be banished along with this scum. And although you may have no qualms with exile, we do."

"Yeah, and so did we!" Axiroth shouted. "But you don't hear us bitching about it. The Captain made the right choice to go to Earth, and you have no right to say otherwise. He had a noble cause and didn't deserve to be banished, and neither did we."

Alexei turned his head. "Thank you, Ax," he said quietly.

Axiroth smiled.

Mikos scoffed. "It was your disloyalty to the Empire which had you banished. You had allowed your commanding officer, as well as ten important diplomats, to be slaughtered by the Commune, then refuse to show up for your hearing. Instead you go gallivanting across the galaxy and end up on Earth, the punishment of which is a slap on the wrist compared to your former offenses."

"I don't need reminding, Mikos. I know what I did, and for that, I am paying the price with grace."

"Indeed," Mikos spat. He turned to Xavier. "So, what will it be, Captain? Will you refuse to follow through with the Elder's orders and subject us all to a fate worse than death? Or will you fulfill your duties as the Elite Corps' Commander and destroy the Exiles?"

"I guess... I have no choice. I made a commitment to the Elite Corps... I'm sorry, Alexei... I'm sorry Kavhen." Xavier held up his paw, and as he did, his troops prepared their weapons, aiming toward the Exiles.

Kavhen, who had joined his fellow Exiles, now wept in Graunta's caring arms. He couldn't even look at Xavier, his love.

"Don't bother," Alexei said to his brother. "You know what will happen. This fight is between you and me. And I'm sorry it had to come to this."

"I'm sorry, too." With that, Xavier slowly spread his feet and held out his paws, ready to attack.

As Alexei did the same, the surrounding Lumarians backed off. They didn't know what exactly to expect, but they knew it was going to be fierce.

Alexei's Elites knew what their Captain was capable of. They had experienced it many times, first-hand, and they could assume Xavier was capable of the very same. They all were scared for Alexei, while also afraid for Xavier. They had no way of knowing the outcome of this battle. Would they simply tear each other apart? Or would they continue fighting for an eternity, neither refusing to fall?

The two stood, staring, waiting for their cue. The tension hung heavily in the air as the two behemoths prepared themselves mentally.

The Lumarians, who encircled the brothers, watched with restless anticipation. Kavhen stood trembling, unable to move or take his eyes of the lions. The large black-bound book began to slip out of his hand.

At the same time, Alexei and Xavier looked, without moving their heads, at the book, then back to each other. A bead of sweat rolled down Alexei's face as the book continued to slip.

Suddenly, Kavhen dropped the book. The heavy tome seemed almost to hang in midair, mere inches from slamming onto the hard floor. After a long moment, the book finally crashed to the floor, the titan's cue to begin.

Xavier dashed forward quickly, and with extreme speed and agility, he attacked his brother.

Alexei, somewhat surprised by the sudden attack, threw up his arms, barely blocking each blow. Unlike his usual enemies, it felt as if Xavier was moving at a normal speed, and Alexei could hardly keep up. He blocked with his forearms to the left, then the right, and again at the left. He continued to narrowly dodge and block each lightning-fast blow after blow.

Suddenly, an opening. Alexei thrust his paws forward, grabbing onto Xavier's right forearm. Without missing a beat, he forcefully spun his brother around, throwing him hard into the marble-like wall, flying far beyond the Lumarians.

Xavier hit the wall with incredible force. He felt himself slam suddenly into the building, then drop to the hard ground.

Alexei bounded forward and onto the round desk. He held out his paws toward his brother, pads down, then lifted his arms up. As he did, two large pillars of earth and marble rose from the ground and hung in front of the fallen Xavier. Alexei growled and stepped forward, and as he did the pillars were forced toward his brother. Alexei stopped as he felt another strong force pushing himself and his earthen pillars back. The force grew stronger as Alexei pushed forward. He felt the power slam against his entire body, straining it. With his claws out, Alexei fiercely thrust himself forward, slowly against the force.

The stone pillars, held together with Alexei's mind, began to crumble and small chunks split apart and flew back.

The Lumarians just watched in awe.

Xavier slowly got back to his feet, concentrating heavily on Alexei, pushing his brother back. He growled as he got to his feet.

Alexei now flew forward a force of his own, opposing his brother's. He could feel Xavier's power increasing and putting pressure and strain on his body. Alexei slowly and stressfully pulled his forearms crossed in front of his chest, as if gathering energy. He then thrust his paws outward, tearing the forces apart. The pillars crumbled and blew apart while both he and Xavier skidded back.

Xavier was once again against the wall. He shook his head and was greeted with Alexei's powerful fists.

Alexei struck his brother hard in his left cheek, then again on his right. As Xavier flew to the right, Alexei dashed after him and struck him hard in the gut. He then grabbed Xavier's arm and threw him again.

Xavier slammed and skidded across the smooth floor, bumping into the desk. He groaned and got to his feet.

Alexei walked calmly toward his brother, his arms down to the side and his paws prepped for another attack, his claws drawn. He was panting slightly as he paced forward, staring Xavier down. Suddenly, the ground started to shake beneath him. Alexei stopped and braced himself. He noticed, out of the corner of his eye, the Lumarians hastily making their way out of the tower. Alexei looked back at his brother who was bent slightly and holding out his paws. Small pieces of tile and stone gradually peeled off the floor and rose up. Alexei was unimpressed, until suddenly Xavier rushed and smashed into him.

Alexei flew back into the wall, cracking it. He fell hard to the floor and felt a hard foot slam into his left ribs, then the wall again. His ribs were throbbing now, and felt mostly broken. He lifted himself only to be met with Xavier's knee in his face. Alexei could feel the cartilage tearing inside and the blood gushing out of his nostrils. Before he could hit the wall, Alexei was thrown to the left from a blow to his right cheek. He flew just above the floor until he came to a painful stop as he crashed partly through a large stone pillar. Alexei lay on the floor, trembling at Xavier's power. He hadn't imagined he could have grown so strong. For the first time in over sixteen years, Alexei felt fear. This demon, his brother, was making quick work of the old lion.

Alexei shook his head and looked up at Xavier from a bloody eye, groaning. He was sure a tear ran down his face as he stared his brother, his lover, in the eyes. It had just started to occur to Alexei what exactly was going on. He was now fighting his own flesh and blood to the death. That thought made Alexei sick, and he coughed up large amounts of chunky crimson blood. He shakily began to lift himself up, his ribs agonizing as he did. The blood dripped down his chin and chest, and more continued to pour from Alexei's nose. He now stood on his shaky legs, barely able to keep balance as Xavier drew nearer. Alexei shook his head again. He had been through worse. Much worse. His wounds were nothing compared to what had faced even on Earth. Alexei bared his bloody teeth and focused on his brother. As he focused, the pain was quickly replaced with rage. Alexei used this rage to fuel his power.

Suddenly, a flash in Alexei's mind. He leaped forward just as two stone slabs slammed together. He jumped up and two more collided. Alexei nimbly leapt off every large chunk of stone thrown at him, flying through the air. He finally landed then dashed quickly toward Xavier. Mere inches away, Alexei slammed into another stone slab, this one having been risen from beneath. Alexei smashed through the barrier with his metal paw but saw no Xavier. He spun around quickly and waved his left paw in front of him, deflecting a clever attack. Alexei deflected another would-be punch from his brother with his right paw, then again with his left. Alexei leaned back slightly, avoiding another hard foot in the face. He stepped back and moved the attacker's punches away. It seemed Xavier was tiring out. This was Alexei's chance.

As Xavier gave another kick at Alexei's head, the older lion grabbed hold of his brother's ankle and spun him back into a freshly-risen slab.

The slab crumbled as Xavier fell to the floor.

Without missing a beat, and knowing his brother was far from out, Alexei picked up his barely-bloody brother and tossed him somewhat gently to the side.

Xavier stumbled as he regained his balance. He stared malevolently at Alexei.

Alexei dashed forward and pounded his right fist into Xavier's gut, sending the young lion flying straight across the large room. Before Xavier hit the ground, or the wall, Alexei burst forward and slammed his foot down into his brother's chest, stopping the young lion instantly. Alexei landed and slid forward on his feet. As he ran back toward Xavier, who was promptly getting back to his feet, Alexei jumped up high. He hung in the air for but a moment until he slammed his clasped fists down, shattering the tile beneath him. He looked through the dust and debris, which seemed to float for a moment, for his brother. Alexei then clambered swiftly to the right as his brother slammed himself down right were he had been.

Alexei rolled and got to his feet. The second he spun around, he clasped paws with his brother. The two pushed on each other with incredible force. As they did, their feet began to slide back, their claws now extended and digging into the tile. They stared at each other in the eyes with such hatred, baring their teeth and growling madly, the blood still pouring down Alexei's face. Alexei could feel his legs starting to give way, and he knew Xavier's were, too. Alexei pushed harder, and as he did the floor beneath his feet began to crack and flake apart.

Alexei let out a terrible roar as he summoned as much extra power as he could. As he let forth an enormous amount of energy, Alexei could feel himself gaining ground.

Xavier, his legs burning, pushed as hard as he could to oppose his brother, however he felt himself begin to falter. The sweat poured down his face until suddenly his legs gave out.

Alexei slammed his brother into the ground with extraordinary force. Still grasping Xavier's paws, Alexei lifted the young lion and slammed him into a stone pillar. Alexei walked up to the dazed lion and lifted him once again. He tossed him back into the middle of the room to let him recover. When he noticed Xavier's same focused eyes, Alexei dashed forward.

Xavier, now focused, swung a hard fist as his brother fast approached.

Alexei, less than a foot away from Xavier, dug his left foot into the tile to stop himself, leaning his head back to avoid the punch. Time seemed to slow as these fast and fluid movements occurred. As Alexei watched the fist barely graze his furry cheeks, he leaned to his right as much as possible, then sprung back with an attack of his own. Alexei drove his right fist deep into Xavier's ribs, shattering them and sending the young lion back hard. Before Xavier caught some air, Alexei swiftly and fluidly punched his brother's left cheek, then again on his right. Alexei then delivered a blow to Xavier's chin - an uppercut - which sent a large smear of blood across his face and shoulder. As Xavier hung in the air, chin up and split open, Alexei quickly put his paws together and swung them to the left, and after building enough tension, released his fists into Xavier's right ribs, sending the beaten lion straight across the room, stopped by the metal bookshelf.

Alexei walked up and stood above his brother, panting heavily. Although he had received a very sound beating, Alexei could sense the fire still alive. Suddenly, Xavier let out a strong roar and a force which blew Alexei back. Alexei regained his wits quickly while midair, now floating high above the table in the middle. Alexei backed off and landed softly.

The brothers continued to stare each other down for a long moment, panting.

A drop of blood slowly rolled down Alexei's face, traveling down his muzzle. It hung off the end of his nose, dangling eternally. Alexei could feel it hanging off his dark wet nose. It tickled his sensitive prow and Alexei grew more enraged. He growled, as the lion dared not move. Then finally, the single drop of blood, burdened with the weight of the slow crimson trickle, fell from Alexei's nose. Alexei continued to stare down his brother.

The drop of blood fell slowly, as time itself seemed at a standstill. As it fell slowly, the drop aroused Alexei's senses. He could hear the blood dropping as it passed through the dusty air; he could smell and taste the bitter blood that coated his nose and mouth; he could feel the blood as it coursed down his furry body, caressing him warmly; he could see, easily, the blood as it fell slowly though the air, as well as the coating around himself and his brother. Suddenly, all that went away; the small drop of blood exploded as it hit the dusty floor.

Simultaneously, as the blood struck the floor, Alexei and Xavier both flew forward, crying out fiercely, baring their claws. The two met above the centre of the table, the two powers slamming into each other. As their fists smashed together, a shockwave resonated from the two, shattering the small windows and knocking some books off the shelves. They could both sense the tremendous power each were discharging. They continued punching at each other ferociously, every blow striking with incredible power and precision.

Alexei, going for one final strike, threw back his left arm far and released it quickly. As his mechanical fist struck Xavier's, an unbelievable amount of force ran painfully up his arm and shoulder. Alexei faltered for but a moment.

Xavier, using this split second, leaned back and kicked Alexei hard in the chest, sending his brother flying back.

Alexei quickly recovered and flew forward. He and his brother met again with extreme force, except this time the shockwave forced the two upward. Alexei grabbed onto his brother's arms and Xavier did the same. They stared at each other with such malevolence, growling fiercely and pushing each other further and faster. Alexei, not knowing how quickly they were actually going, glanced up briefly and noticed a green light. It was the ceiling. As the pair flew up toward the light, Alexei pulled harder and harder, struggling desperately to weaken his brother. Suddenly the pair hit the ceiling, shattering the glowing dome.

The blow rocked the entire tower. The tremendous force blew the entire top off the enormous tower, at least the entire top two floors were torn apart, blown outward like an explosion. The Lumarians watched in awe as the pieces of the tower crumbled toward the earth, and as the two superpowers continued, in the air above the tower, their mighty battle.

Alexei suddenly sensed his team's concern, as well as Xavier's. He could also sense, as he continued dodging, blocking, and throwing punches, the tension mounting between the ex and new Elites. Despite knowing both their captains were far above them, nearly in the clouds, fighting to the death, the Lumarians continued to bicker and fight.

Alexei threw up his left paw and gripped Xavier's ankle hard. He then twisted around and threw the young lion toward the earth. As he watched Xavier recover, he sensed the tension was rising between the two teams. Suddenly, miles below him, Alexei noticed a fight had also broken out. His team, although unarmed, were putting up a brilliant fight; it was a battle between experience and young audacity. Alexei wanted desperately to help, but he knew his fight was with Xavier.

Xavier, having just recovered, stared up momentarily at Alexei. He growled and bolted upward again.

Alexei, caught off guard be the ensuing fight below, was struck hard by his brother. He flew back, dazed, and felt the change in gravity as his body quickly descended. He opened his eye as best he could, only to see his brother in fast pursuit. Alexei groaned as the air rushed past his ears and he tried to recover his senses. After closing his eye tightly for but a moment, Alexei felt a sudden pain in his gut, then his chest. Alexei opened his eye and grabbed hold of his brother, who was pushing him faster toward the city below.

Alexei tried desperately to push himself away, but it was useless. Xavier had built up such an incredible amount of momentum, reversal was impossible. Alexei continued to struggle, crying out as he plummeted.

Suddenly the pair crashed down extremely fast and hard into one of the stone buildings, demolishing it and the surrounding structures completely. Out of the crater's dust, Alexei burst out, tearing the could apart, and took off into the sky. Seconds later, Xavier tore out after him.

The Lumarians stopped momentarily as the lions crashed into the earth, sending deep shockwaves across the city and pounding through their chests. Despite their own battle, they felt almost terrified as to the outcome of the epic battle. With such unimaginable power, the two could easily tear the planet apart.

Alexei pushed himself up, dodging his brother's attack. He turned quickly and bolted forward, ramming him hard from behind. He then grabbed Xavier's tail and swung him around, throwing him down in the opposite direction. Before Xavier could recover, Alexei shot down below his falling brother and kneed him hard in the gut.

Xavier, feeling the sharp pain, spat up blood.

Alexei winced as Xavier's warm blood splattered over his face. He held up his arms, his back now facing the ground, and gripped Xavier's left arm. Hesitant for just a moment, Alexei then swung, with all his might, his brother down toward the planet. As his brother fell, Alexei extended his claws and threw down his right paw, letting out a powerful and precise force, hurling Xavier down faster. Alexei then let himself drop, following his plummeting brother.

Xavier hit the hard, stone street with extreme force, creating another strong shockwave as his power suddenly dispelled.

Alexei landed just at the edge of the crater, in the middle of the street. The surrounding buildings had crumbled, and even more cracked and broken from the dispersion of Xavier's force. The dust finally began to settle and blow away as a slight breeze blew through the wide street. Alexei could sense the fire still burning within Xavier. He peered down into the crater at his bloody and dusty brother.

Xavier got up, shakily, and eventually climbed out of the crater.

Alexei had backed off, keeping a good distance away.

Xavier, now at the edge of the crater, trying hard to keep himself from keeling over, stared at Alexei, focusing deeply on him.

The two continued once again to stare each other down, the wind now blowing softly through the street and kicking up small amounts of dust and sand.

"I will not let you win, Xavier," Alexei cried out from afar. "Give up now."

"Never," Xavier muttered. He continued, louder, "I will not give up until my duty is fulfilled, even if that means taking down the most powerful being in the galaxy."

It had finally struck Alexei how serious his brother was. This was not about ego or some kind of power struggle. It was all about a young lion doing his job as a commanding officer. Fighting his brother suddenly seemed so hollow, so cold. Alexei felt a pain within as Xavier uttered those words. That night they had shared together suddenly meant nothing. Alexei realized that at that point, he and Xavier were no longer brothers, but bitter enemies.

"I don't care," Xavier went on, "how strong you are. I would rather die than fail my team and the Elders."

"No," Alexei whimpered. "You... you don't mean that."

Xavier replied with a deep and long and bitter growl. He continued to focus intensely on Alexei.

Alexei shook his head and focused, also, on his brother. The two stood, prepared to attack, motionless, however the tension was high.

As the two stared into each others eyes, their energy flying wildly, the sky grew dark.

The Lumarians stopped their skirmish and ran to their captains. At the far end of the street, nearest the tower, they watched in awe as the two focused their energy and their power.

The sky continued to darken as the clouds quickly, at an almost frightening pace, drew in.

Kaelin held Kavhen tight, scared for both his life and Alexei's.

As the dark malignant clouds grew together, now spiraling above the titans, a loud and brilliant bolt streaked across the sky. The sky rumbled constantly, almost matching the deep growls of the lions.

Suddenly, another loud crack.

On cue, Alexei and Xavier flew forward snarling. As their mighty fists struck, a powerful surge exploded from between them, and another crack of lightning. The two flew back, as if pushed away from the force. Again, like the lightning itself, they struck again. Continuing to rise, the two struck again and again, each blow sending terrible shivers down the Lumarians spines.

Alexei continued to attack with his left paw, however he could feel the metal starting to wane. As he flew back once again, Alexei went in for a final blow. He threw back his fist, almost instantly greeted by his brother, and threw it forward. As his metal fist met with Xavier's flesh, he realized he had made a huge mistake.

Xavier's fist finally tore through Alexei's steel paw, sending small shards of metal scatting down to the planet.

Alexei cried out in pain.

Without missing a beat, Xavier, with the momentum he had built from his punch, spun and kicked Alexei hard in the chest.

Alexei spat up blood.

Before giving his brother a chance to fall, Xavier spun again and bolted downward into Alexei.

Alexei, blood trailing off his beaten body, flew down almost instantly into the buildings below and skidded backward through several more, shattering the stone architecture around him.

As the dust and stone settled, Xavier hovered confidently above the piles of rubble. He scarcely sensed Alexei's heartbeat.

Alexei lay buried in the ruins, bloody and in pain. He tried to lift himself but was unable. He had no idea how much rubble lay atop him, but he knew he wasn't out. Alexei could feel a throbbing pain in his right arm; probably broken, or shattered at best. Alexei closed his eye and tried to concentrate. He felt just as he did sixteen years ago when the Commune, Commander Graves, had first attacked him. He felt, once again, that searing pain as he lay under the wasted buildings, the fire still alive. He growled deeply as he focused his energy. Alexei began to slowly move the rubble above him.

Xavier quickly noticed the small movements and smiled. He rose himself up high above the ruins and looked down. Moments later, a loud bolt streaked across the entire sky, lighting up the darkened city. As if on cue, Xavier bolted straight down, obliterating the movement below him.

As the shattered rock and dust flew all around Xavier, his face showing sheer malevolent joy, Alexei burst from the rock behind him, breathing heavily.

Xavier, suddenly realizing the mistake he had made, turned his head. Before he could focus on his enemy, he was struck hard in the face. Xavier slammed into the jagged rubble and sprung off, landing again several meters away.

Alexei leapt up high and slammed his right fist into his fallen brother.

Xavier, feeling Alexei's fist nearly tearing though his broken skin, spat up an unimaginable amount of blood.

Alexei picked up Xavier and held him to his face, blood coursing down endlessly. "You," he said in a deep, raspy, frightening voice, "are not my enemy. Stop now. I do not want to kill you, brother."

Xavier spat in Alexei's face.

As Alexei flinched, he felt a quick sharp swipe on his cheek. Alexei dropped his brother as he touched his small wound.

Xavier laughed evilly. He then dashed forward and threw a punch at Alexei's face.

Alexei, not moving his head, looked over and quickly grabbed Xavier's wrist and threw him aside.

Xavier growled and hurriedly got back up and rushed Alexei.

Alexei stepped back and, with his broken left arm, moved his brother's attacks easily away. He again threw Xavier to the side. Alexei held out his right paw and swung it outward, a few rocks promptly following and striking Xavier.

Xavier swung his fist and deflected the attack with his own stone projectiles. He then held out both paws and rose them slowly, many more rocks rising around Alexei, surrounding the lion. Xavier moved his paws together, and as he did the rocks constricted Alexei.

As Alexei easily burst out, he was met with a hard punch to his left cheek, then another on his right. Then a pain in his gut and almost instantly after, another strike to his jaw. Alexei stumbled backward, his senses thrown off. Alexei spun around, trying to focus on his brother.

Xavier dashed from side to side then slammed his elbow into Alexei's temple, sending the lion back and toppling over onto the jagged rubble.

Alexei stumbled to his feet. Everything was now a blur. His vision, his eye, his only eye, was bloody and damaged. It was impossible for the lion to see anything clearly. It was all a blur.

Xavier approached his older brother slowly. He, like Alexei, wore nothing now but his armoured pants, bleeding profusely; the rest had been torn off in battle. Panting heavily, Xavier picked up a metal pole, one of many in amongst the rubble, and swung it around. As Alexei, still on one knee, looked up at him, Xavier slammed the pole hard into Alexei's face, sending the lion skidding across the stone and into another crumbling building.

Alexei, his right side mostly torn up now, let out a cry and incredible force, blasting the surrounding buildings away. He was beaten terribly, but he would not fall. He sensed his brother quickly approaching. Alexei held up his right arm and blocked the pole. A sharp pain shot through his already tender arm and through his shoulder and spine. Alexei grunted as his knee started to give. He twisted his arm and grabbed the pole, pulling it away.

Xavier smashed his foot into Alexei's face then twisted around, holding out his paw behind him. Another metal pole flew from afar into his right paw and, keeping up with the momentum, swung it again into Alexei's face.

Alexei flew to the left, tearing through the crumbling wall and into weakened building. As Alexei lifted himself, he was attacked again seconds later. Barely able to see now, he felt a sharp pain in his gut as he was jabbed with the pole, then in his back as he smashed into the wall behind him. Alexei once again felt the pole's searing pain as it tore across his cheek, and moments later, struck the other. Then finally, Alexei felt the pole tear up his chin and bottom jaw, feeling the blood gushing out, then he felt the warm ground as he collapsed. Alexei's face felt as if it had been set aflame, the warm blood pouring from his raw, cut up skin. Suddenly, after a moment of silence, he felt himself get lifted up to his feet. He tried looking at his brother, his enemy, but it was too soaked in blood and stinging madly for him to focus. He could hear words, but he couldn't make them out. Alexei groaned as more blood poured from his mouth. He was suddenly thrown to the right, into the adjacent wall.

Alexei fell hard and cried out as he felt a boney foot pound his gut. Alexei crashed through the wall and several more until he felt his battered body skid painfully across the street. Alexei was suddenly startled at the loud crash of the lighting above. He felt a cool wind pass through the street, chilling his bones. Alexei tried desperately to get up, his paws slipping on the pool of blood beneath him. He finally got on one knee, shakily, as he lifted his head.

Xavier, also blood soaked, walked out of the building confidently, still holding the metal pole. He was twirling it around slowly as he approached his weakened brother.

Alexei continued to lift himself to his feet, trembling. He looked to his left, now mostly up, through his damaged eye. From afar, from a massive pile of debris, he noticed another metal pole. Alexei held out his right paw and, concentrating hard, pulled it toward him. As it reached his paw, Alexei now holding it tight, he let go his mental hold and let the momentum swing it to his right side. He held the metal pole to his side like a sword, his feet now firmly planted on the warm sandy street.

Xavier stopped for a moment, staring at his brother.

Alexei, breathing heavily, stared Xavier down. He knew the odds were against him; he had been beaten and battered nearly to death, having lost what seemed like most his blood. Alexei was exhausted and in incredible pain, but he had to continue. He couldn't give up. He couldn't let his team down.

Xavier suddenly dashed forward, roaring loudly, with his weapon readied.

Alexei took a step back and, now with his only good paw, swung up his weapon and deflected Xavier's attack. Suspended in time, Alexei watched as the dozens of sparks burst from the metal-on-metal collision. He watched almost in awe of the explosion - that small spark of life that still burned wild within his tired and beaten body. Alexei, his weapon now forced to the left, swung the pole hard in the opposite direction, only to have it deflected by Xavier's unbelievable reflexes.

Quickly regaining his composure, Alexei swung fiercely, aiming for Xavier's head, but once again created sparks with his brother. Alexei stepped back, as he was jostled by the blow, thrown off for a moment. A quick flash in his mind and Alexei swiftly parried to the right, just barely dodging a blow to the side of his head. Now behind his brother, Alexei cried out as he thrust his pole downward into Xavier's back.

Xavier, mere moments after his attack missed, twisted around completely, now hanging in the air, gripping both ends of his metal staff to deflect Alexei's next attack.

Alexei slammed his weapon down onto Xavier's, which forced a strong shockwave outward, smashing the young lion into the stone ground and skidding back, digging up a massive amount of rock and earth. As the dust started to settle, Xavier was getting to his feet with only rage in his eyes.

Alexei, also seething, walked forward slowly with his weapon to his right, still breathing hard. He gasped slightly as he nimbly dodged back, a metal pole flying in front of his face downward then smashing into the ground below. Alexei quickly pounced to the right to dodge another of Xavier's attacks. He looked behind, now on his back, and held his weapon in front of him, watching as Xavier quickly, like lightning, went for another blow. Alexei flinched and growled as a sharp pain shot up his right arm and shoulder, deflecting Xavier's attack. As the sparks flew above Alexei's face, he felt himself dig painfully down into the rocky earth. As fast as his brother, Alexei shot up and out of his small crater.

The moment Alexei touched the ground, he was once again met with opposition. Alexei swung his weapon skillfully around, deflecting each attack. He was tired and in pain, and he didn't know how much longer he could hold off each powerful and intense blow. Alexei threw his weapon upward, blocking and pushing away Xavier's attack, then spun and slammed the pole into Xavier's ribs.

Xavier, feeling the pole nearly shatter his bottom left ribs, flew to the right, bouncing and skidding across the ground, stopping at the front of a stone structure. He got back to his feet, through great pain, only to be met with a hard, and bloody, knee to his face. Then, a loud and hard crack to his left cheek, and another to his right. For the moment Xavier was disoriented, he felt yet another blow to his left cheek, and as he hung in the air, blood flying out, he felt a final blow from Alexei; two clasped paws slamming him suddenly downward.

Alexei stood above his brother, almost surprised he was still able to stand. As he watched his brother simply lay there, lifeless against the building, Alexei dropped his pole as if he hadn't the strength to hold it. But just as the pole hit the ground with a high-pitched clang, Alexei felt his hot cheek heat up again as Xavier's powerful fist drove into it. As he hung in the air, Xavier still smashing his fist into his face, Alexei felt either shocked by his brother's speed or frustrated at his own lack thereof. After pondering this for the fraction of the second he had, Alexei felt once again the searing pain of Xavier's fists tearing up his already tender face. He didn't know how much more he could handle.

Xavier quickly and precisely attacked his older brother with extreme brutality, feeling nothing now but anger and rage, almost blinded to it. He continued to slam his fists and dig his feet into Alexei's raw body, finally sending him flying down the street, further now from the tower and from where the Lumarians continued their skirmish.

Alexei tried to get up, but when he raised his head, his vision still not at best, he was again struck by his brother. He crashed through the wooden door of a stone structure and hit hard against the back wall. As Alexei recovered, he felt hard foot bore into his gut, beating him into the wall, creating large cracks and breaking small chunks off. Alexei groaned as he fell to his paws and knees, his left broken paw held to his stomach. He looked up at his brother, who was now standing in the broken doorway.

Xavier looked down at his older brother through hateful eyes. He suddenly walked forward and kicked Alexei square in the muzzle, the warm blood coating his foot.

Alexei cried out as he was forced back, then wept as his dazed body hit the ground. His entire body ached incredibly, more so now his nose and muzzle. He curled up, cradling himself and crying into his arms. He heard Xavier growl.

Xavier picked up his brother and held him face-to-face.

Alexei was barely able to keep his damaged eye open.

Xavier then swung and slammed his brother into the cracked wall in front of him, breaking it more. Xavier let go of Alexei, then a moment later drove a back kick into his brother's chest, sending the poor lion crashing through the stone wall.

Alexei slammed into the wall of the next crumbling building, outside, but felt himself once again being smashed through the thick, yet weak, enclosure. Alexei didn't know how much more he could take. He stood almost motionless, unable to sense a thing.

Finally, Xavier, the metal pole in paw, spun and slammed the pole into the right side of Alexei's face.

Alexei flew to the left and tore through the crumbled wall and into the next, still standing building. Alexei groaned as he lay on his side in the dusty stone home, up against a wall. Tears started pouring down his torn up face and Alexei began to weep.

Xavier finally walked into the weak building, still holding his metal pole, staring down at his brother. "Get up," he said.

Alexei replied with barely a groan, writhing on the floor.

"Don't tell me you're already down and out. If you're anything like I've heard about, this isn't the end. You've still got something left in you."

Alexei held out his paw and tried to drag his half-dead body toward his brother.

Xavier backed off.

Alexei groaned again as he very slowly and shakily lifted himself to his paws and knees. As he lifted himself to his feet, Alexei stumbled backwards into the wall, breathing heavily and feeling an unbelievable amount pain. He shut his eye and tried desperately to recover his senses.

Xavier slammed down the pole into the floor and approached his brother. He held his left paw to Alexei's neck and squeezed. After a moment, he thrust his hard knee into Alexei's gut, getting bloody puke all over himself. Xavier lifted Alexei's head and smashed his right fist into Alexei's cheek, then struck his right, then his left again. Xavier grabbed Alexei's arm and swung him around, slamming him into the adjacent wall, cracking it. He stood over his weakened brother, facing him.

Alexei, using all the energy left in his body, looked deep into Xavier's fearful eyes. He managed to say, although broken and raspy, "B-brother... please..."

"Begging for your life, brother?" Xavier spat in Alexei's face. "Disgusting."

"No," Alexei said, weeping. He lifted his right paw to Xavier's left cheek, pulling Xavier in closer, trying to lean forward himself. "Please... don't let anything... happen to Kaelin..." Alexei then managed to press his bloody lips against Xavier's, kissing him softly.

Xavier, surprised by this, seemed also to be kissing back. He held his paws to Alexei's soft and very tender face and began to kiss more passionately.

Alexei, despite the searing pain all throughout his body, felt aroused by this, and even felt a bit of pleasure in his stained, torn-up armoured pants. Finally, Alexei leaned back again, releasing his brother. He groaned slightly as the tears continued to run down his face. "Also..." he continued at length, "give him this..." Alexei lifted his broken mechanical paw to his chest, poking at the red pendant.

Xavier looked down at the shiny red stone then back to Alexei, a tear now in his eye. "A-Alexei..."

"Whatever you do... I beg you... don't hurt Kaelin. Bring him... back to Earth... please..."

A tear welled up in Xavier's eyes. All his anger and all his hatred suddenly vanished, and he stared down at his pathetic and bloody brother with an overwhelming amount of guilt and sympathy. He only now started to realize exactly what he had done. Xavier started to tremble. "Alexei... I... I'm so sorry. I don't know if-"

Suddenly, a flash in both the lions minds.

Alexei, despite his excruciating pain, felt alive again, that fire burning brighter, as the images poured into his mind. He knew Xavier was experiencing the same. "K..." Alexei tried to speak.

"I know, Alexei. Grab on."

Alexei threw his weak arm around his brother.

Xavier held Alexei tight and looked up. He then blasted the roof off the building with his mind and burst quickly into the dark sky. He hung in the air with his brother for but a moment, then flew quickly down to the street and bolted down the road, flying just above the stone. He slowed as he approached the Lumarians.

Alexei's team was crowded around one of them, while Xavier's team held Mikos back. They all turned to face their captains, somewhat surprised to see them together.

The brothers quickly realized what had happened.

Xavier set down Alexei and ran forward.

Kaelin ran quickly to his mate, holding him close and crying.

As Xavier pushed his way past Raiche and Axiroth, shoving them hard, he saw a bloody Lumarian lying on the stone ground, Eskelle tending him carefully. Xavier fell to his knees, tears pouring down his face, and held Kavhen's cold hand. "Kavhen," he cried, "I... I'm so sorry. I didn't mean for any of this to happen..."

Kavhen groaned. "X-Xavier...? Where is... Alexei? Did you...?"

"Try not to talk," Eskelle said. She looked up at Xavier and said, bitterly, "He needs his strength."

"No, Kavhen... he's... alive... don't worry." Xavier started to tremble as he felt Xavier's life force fading. He cried into Kavhen's hand. "No, you can't go... Not yet... I... I love you."

Kavhen tried a smile, a tear running down his face, but he could barely keep his eyes open. "I'm so happy," Kavhen spoke slowly, "we were able to meet. I... fell in love with you... the moment I saw you."

Xavier continued to weep, holding Kavhen close. "You have to hang in there, Kavhen. Don't die on me... you can't."

The Lumarians all watched the two in dead silence.

"I don't want to lose you," Xavier whimpered. "I love you."

Kavhen smiled, however weak. "I love you, too, Xavier... And please... tell Alexei... he still has a special place in my heart."

Alexei, with Kaelin's help, approached the dying Lumarian, crying. "You, too, Kav... you know I love you..."

Kavhen then closed his eyes, smiling. Finally, his hand slowly went limp and he lay back his head. He felt very cold now.

With tears pouring down his cheeks and seething, Xavier stood up and faced his team. A piercing crack lit up and shook the entire city. "Who... did... this?" Xavier cried, trembling. "I told you not to attack!"

Xavier's team backed away, terrified of their Captain.

Mikos finally released himself from his teammate's grip. "These... these exiles provoked us, sir. W-we had no choice. It was unfortunate, yes, but necessary. You see how easily they fall in line when one of them is taken down."

"You son of a bitch," Xavier slammed his fist into Mikos' gut. He swung around and smashed his foot into the Lumarian's jaw. Like the lightning above, Xavier struck again before Mikos could fall. He then clasped his fists together and struck Mikos hard, sending him flying back. He dashed forward and punched the Lumarian again in the face, then again, then again, and again. He leaned forward and grabbed hold of Mikos' head and slammed it into his knee, then threw him up into a wall.

"C-Captain," Mikos begged, blood running down his face.

Xavier struck him over and over in his face, chin and gut, relentlessly. His precise, lightning-fast attacks were incredible, almost invisible. Xavier cried out as he attacked, grunting as he released every blow.

Now bleeding incredibly, Mikos continued, "You... you can't do this... I'm your s-second-in-command..."

"I don't give a shit," Xavier replied frighteningly. Continuing to ignore Mikos' pleas, Xavier kicked the Lumarian hard. He grabbed Mikos by the wrist and swung the bruit out into the street, then again like lightning, struck him in the left cheek.

Mikos stumbled backward.

Without missing a beat, Xavier cried out terribly as he relentlessly struck his second-in-command over and over, blood spilling onto the stone ground and smearing all over his furry body. Xavier grabbed him again and drove the Lumarian hard into a wall. He backed off slightly and held out his right paw. He then lifted it, shakily, large chunks of sharp and jagged stone rising with it. He held them above the wounded and frightened Lumarian, growling ferociously.

"No," Xavier heard a voice from behind. He then felt a warm paw on his shoulder. Xavier turned to see Alexei, who was held up by his mate.

Xavier whipped his head around to see he was also surrounded by his team, who all appeared frightened and uncertain of what they should do.

"Don't do it, Xavier. He's... not worth it."

"But he...he killed..." Xavier choked up as he again started to cry.

Alexei, too, felt incredible anger and hatred toward the new Elites as the tears ran down his tender and bloody face. He knew what Xavier was feeling. He wanted so badly to tear Mikos apart, but he knew if he allowed himself to succumb to his malicious and demonic urges, he would become nearly unstoppable, and would probably rip the planet apart, killing everything and everyone. However, Alexei kept himself sane while in the arms of his one truelove, Kaelin. His warmth calmed Alexei's malevolent spirits.

Xavier fell to his knees, trembling.

Alexei could sense Xavier's demon rising. He limped over to his brother and placed a paw on his shoulder.

Xavier looked up at his beaten brother.

"I know... how much it hurts, Xavier. I have seen more death... and more destruction in my life... than anyone sane fur should ever see. And every time I lose a loved one, it never stops hurting... but trust me when I say... killing this pathetic Lumarian won't make the pain go away. If you give in to your bestial side, you will only feel more anger... and more hatred." Alexei fell to his knees and put his right arm around Xavier, holding him close. "Killing this monster won't bring Kavhen back... but I'm here for you. You don't have to suffer alone."

Suddenly the jagged chunks of earth crumbled and fell, a loud and brilliant crack shaking the city. Xavier held his head and let out a terrifying cry. As he did, the ground shook and the already crumbling buildings began to tear apart.

The new Elites gathered their second-in-command and hauled him away from their commander, to a safer distance.

As the quakes got worse and more forceful, the sky started to darken further. The black clouds seemed now to swirl directly above the raging lion. A strong force began to blow from Xavier.

Alexei, still holding his brother, yet still feeling the powerful force, turned back to his team as the lightning continued to crash above them. "Get out of here," he cried. "Head back to the ship, and bring Kavhen with you!"

The ex-Elites snapped immediately into action.

Alexei noticed Xavier's team doing the same, heading back to their own ship. He then noticed his mate, Kaelin, trying desperately to keep himself up, not leaving Alexei's side.

"I won't leave you, Alexei," the roo shouted.

"Kaelin," Alexei shouted back, "you have to head back to the ship and take off. That's the only way you'll be safe!"

The quakes continued to intensify as the surrounding architecture almost blasted apart from Xavier's force. The tower, too, slowly began to crumble.

"What about you?" Kaelin cried.

"I'll be fine. You have to trust me!"

Kaelin stared into Alexei's eye, worried. After a long moment, he knew Alexei was right. Kaelin, still hesitant, nodded reluctantly and took off to the ship.

Alexei turned back to Xavier, who was now on his knees and holding his head in his paws. Despite the mighty force flowing from Xavier's body, Alexei managed to hold on to his brother. He got down on his knees and put his arm around his back and rubbed it lovingly. "You have to stop this, brother," Alexei said loudly. "I know it's hard, but you must control your rage."

Xavier uncovered his face and cocked his head to the left, looking Alexei directly in the eye. His eyes, which were pure white, almost glowing, showed nothing but complete malevolence as tears of blood flowed down his face. "I can't... stop it..." Xavier cried.

Alexei held Xavier closer, their bodies pressed tightly together. "I'm here for you," he said softly, caressing his brother's back. "You don't have to feel alone. We can get through this together."

Xavier cried out again in pain. The ground then shook terribly and large fissures tore open the earth around them. Another brilliant bolt crashed from the frightening sky above. Enormous masses of earth were forced up and out of the ground then flew back, obliterating what was left of the homes and buildings. Suddenly, from the huge fissures which now scarred the dark and dusty city, large geysers of glowing red magma burst up into the heavy air.

Alexei held Xavier, trying to calm him. He knew what it was like to feel this much pain and this much rage. He had to find a way to get through to his brother. He continued caressing Xavier's back softly. He then leaned in closer and pressed his muzzle against his brother's, nipping slightly at his ear.

Xavier looked at Alexei, surprised. "W-what're you-?"

Alexei nipped again at Xavier's ear, tugging playfully on his earing. He then moved his lips down and pressed them lightly against Xavier's.

The red-hot geysers began to slowly descend back into the earth and the quake's intensity lessened. A loud bolt streaked across the blackened sky.

Xavier shut his eyes tightly, trying desperately to make sense of his emotions. When he opened them they appeared normal, however dilated, bloody tears still pouring out. He muzzled close to Alexei, trembling terribly, putting a paw to his cheek. As he felt Alexei's warm body press up against his, the quaking city lessened to a mere rumbling, then to complete and eerie calm. Xavier pressed his trembling lips against Alexei's, kissing passionately. The dark clouds above slowly parted, spiraling outward again. The lightning, too, had quieted down and drifted further away, now just silent flashes in the blackened sky. As Xavier pulled away from Alexei, he felt more at peace. He felt incredible sorrow at the loss of his love, Kavhen, but he knew somehow he would be okay.

* * *

Alexei's ship landed on a very small planet closest to Lumarian territory without entering their border. According to the star map, they had just a couple hours until it reentered Lumarian space. The Exiles gathered on the surface of the planet, dressed appropriately, around a large mound on the grassy plane. They stood with much sorrow in their eyes and pain on their faces. They stood, for a long moment, in silence.

Raiche then met Alexei, his head lowered, holding something. He looked at Alexei in the eye and held out his hands. He lifted his right to reveal Kavhen's dog tags. A tear rolled down the tough Elite's face. "He was a good man, Captain, and I know how much he meant to you. You know I never condoned your relationship with him, but I could always count him to be there for us, for the team... and for you." Raiche, perhaps uncharacteristically, choked up as he handed Alexei the tags.

Alexei, whose fur was stained a light pink from the blood, accepted them with a tear. Beneath his clothes he was wrapped mostly in bandages from his duel. "Thank you, Raiche. That means a lot to me."

Jorhn stepped forward, holding Eskelle close. "He's gonna be missed by us all. He was a good friend and a fine warrior... he never stopped caring."

Eskelle held Jorhn's hand, comforting him. She simply nodded, then added, "He was always there when I needed him, always willing to help."

Alexei smiled as the tears continued to course down his cheeks. He stood with his mate, the roo named Kaelin, holding him close. To his right stood Xavier, who hadn't said a word since they left the dusty planet. He was perhaps hit the hardest by these events.

"I knew Kavhen since he was a punk kid; a new recruit." Graunta said, tearfully. "He's got a good heart and never gave up, not even when the odds were stacked against him... the kid's got balls."

"I did not know Kavhen very long, nor have I known any of you, but from what I could see he was a very sensitive and caring soul, especially for the two young lions. I am greatly sorry for your loss, Captain. You have my condolences."

"Thank you, Alyster," Alexei said. He looked over at Axiroth.

Axiroth kept his head down and shifted slightly. He looked up at Alexei with sympathetic eyes. "I... I don't know what to say..."

"It's okay, Ax. I know how you feel, and thank you."

Xavier couldn't stop himself from crying.

Alexei rubbed Kaelin's back and released him. He then put an arm around his weeping brother, tears still running down his face, trying to comfort his sixteen year old brother. "It's going to be okay, Xavier. I'm here for you."

Xavier looked up at his older brother. He stared for a moment then wrapped his arms around him, weeping. "I loved him, Alexei, more than anything... and now he's gone. I'll never forgive myself... never. I... I'm so sorry."

Alexei held his brother close, comforting him. He stroked Xavier's back warmly with his paws. "Everything will be fine. I know what you're going through right now. I've lost so many loved ones in my life, including my parents, my entire village... But I got through it because of the friends I have now. You're not alone here, Xavier. We'll help you... I'll help you."

Xavier looked up into Alexei's eye, sniffling. "I don't know... if I can stay with you after what I've done."

"What're you saying?"

"I just need some time to think, that's all..."

Alexei nodded and released his brother, giving him a warm pat on the shoulder. He looked back down at the mound and stared tearfully for a long moment.

Kaelin put his arms around Alexei and the two stood, as well as the rest, with their heads lowered in a moment of silence for their departed teammate and friend, Kavhen.

As Alexei stared at Kavhen's grave, he couldn't help but recall some of the times they had shared together. He remembered most fondly the day they met, when Alexei was the newest addition to the Elite Corps and no one save the lighthearted Lumarian accepted him. Alexei smiled while his tears coursed down his face as he remembered their first kiss. It had been a long and rough day for the lion, sixteen years ago, but despite all, Kavhen was there to cheer him up. He was always there. They had spent an unforgettable night of bliss together and were in love ever since.

Alyster raised his head. He said, quietly, "We have thirty minutes now until we reenter Lumarian space."

The team looked up at each other through grieving eyes then headed slowly back to the ship. They walked silently and solemnly, save Xavier who had fallen to his knees, weeping over Kavhen's grave.

Alexei looked back, tears still filling his eyes, then went back to him. He stroked his warm paw across Xavier's back and motioned for him to come along. The two walked back to the ship together, Alexei's right arm across his brother's back, holding him close.

Alexei then put his sorrowful brother to bed and joined Kaelin in his quarters, lying with him, thinking. It was a rough few days for everyone, especially himself, but more especially for Xavier. Alexei thought about Xavier and how hard he was hit by the loss of his love. He considered that Kavhen was possibly Xavier's first love, and also that they hadn't a chance to spend any private time together. Alexei suddenly felt saddened more so by that fact. There was a lot running through his mind at that moment.

Alexei continued to recall many of the times Kavhen had been there for him, with much sadness, but was comforted somewhat by his mate. It was going to be a rough while without Kavhen around, especially for his brother. Alexei closed his eye and snuggled close to Kaelin, now feeling the weight of an emotional day bearing down on him. Slowly the tired and still-healing lion drifted to sleep in his lover's arms, still remembering the alien he had once loved dearly. Alexei didn't know what fate held in store for the Exiles now, but he knew the war was far from over. Both his and Xavier's so-called treason would not go unnoticed by the Elders and surely they would be hunted to the ends of the universe relentlessly. Alexei realized that perhaps Kavhen's death had brought the team even closer together now, against a common enemy, making them stronger. But whatever happened, and despite his terrible loss, he knew he and his team would get through anything the corrupt Lumarians threw at them. As Alexei drifted to sleep, he began to feel some solace in knowing his team was there for him, and for each other, to get through the rough times ahead. No one was alone on that ship, and nothing, especially now, was going to tear them apart.