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A loud explosion rocked the entire base. The Olissians, allies with the enemy Commune, were raining hell down on the base. Alexei and his troops traversed the darkened, maze-like corridors swiftly as the intense battle raged on outside. They carefully moved around corners, dispensing enemies with a quiet ease. They finally reached the lift.

Alexei held up his paw to signal his team to halt. He poked his head around the corner then calmly walked around.

The single guard looked the lion in the eyes. He hesitated for just a second. Just enough time.

In the blink of an eye, Alexei dashed forward and pulled the guards' weapon out of his hands. In one fluid motion, he threw it aside and thrust his left, mechanical elbow into the guards' gut, cracking the armour.

The guard spat blood and keeled over.

"The coast is clear," Alexei shouted back to his troops.

The five Lumarian Elites emerged from around the corner.

Jorhn, the sarcastic eccentric, patted Alexei on the back. "Good job, Captain. Always the show off, eh?"

"As if you could do better," Alexei replied.

Axiroth, Alexei's newest recruit, asked, "What's up there that's so special, anyway?"

Alexei turned to Axiroth. "What, you didn't hear the briefing?"

"Obviously not."

Alexei glared at the newcomer then rolled his eyes. "We're rescuing hostages being held by the Olissians. Plain and simple."

"We're Lumar's best soldiers! Why the hell are we being sent on stupid missions like this?"

"Because they're some important Lumarian dignitaries. Their shuttle was captured by the Olissians and they're being held for ransom. Apparently we're the only ones qualified to break them out."

"Why not just pay the ransom?"

"You've got a lot to learn, kid," Raiche, Alexei's second-in-command, cut in. "These guys are just a bunch of terrorists. You can hardly even call the Olissians an empire anymore. They've more or less been swallowed up by the Commune and now serve as simple pawns, doing the real dirty, usually meaningless work. It's really a sad story if you think about it."

The lift door finally opened.

"Kavhen, Jorhn, and Eskelle, you come with me," Alexei commanded. "Raiche, you can stay down here him." Alexei pointed at Axiroth.

"Yes sir."

The four piled onto the lift and soon they took off into the tower. The dignitaries were being held in the main control centre at the very top of the moon base tower.

"So," Johrn started, "how about that new guy? He sure is something."

"He's a good fighter," Alexei said. "I don't much care for the attitude, though."

"No one does," Eskelle spat. "The little bastard's the son of General Coorin. He would have gotten in even if he wasn't a soldier."

"Well, like it or not, he's part of our team. It took me a while to fit in, but I finally managed." Alexei looked up. "We're almost there. Get ready."

The three Lumarians readied their weapons. The lift finally came to a stop and the doors slowly opened. The four stepped out into the control room and scanned the area. There was no one in sight. All they could hear were the sparks of ruined equipment and the quiet hum of the base. They slowly moved across the room, scanning the dark room while kicking rubble and scattered tubes out of their way. Suddenly, a noise from above.

The four stopped and looked up, aiming their weapons.

Something suddenly crashed down from the ceiling. It landed with a loud thump, and it lay there covered in broken wires and dust.

Alexei approached and kicked it with his foot. "Hey, I know you're alive. Who are you?"

The dark-skinned Olissian was shaking.

Alexei bent down and placed his paw on its shoulder. He said in a calm voice, "Can you tell me what's going on here?"

The alien started to chuckle.

Alexei looked back at his team.

Eskelle, the female medical officer, bent down and examined the Olissian.

Suddenly, the shaking beast lifted himself up and took a swing at Alexei.

Alexei jumped back.

The three Lumarians pointed their guns directly at the alien.

The large Olissian smiled and bared his sharp teeth. He said, in a deep raspy voice, "So, you have come for your men? Well, we have already killed them. But now we have you."

"You killed them? Why?"

"We did not need them anymore. We used them to get to you."

"Do you truly think you can win against the toughest soldiers in the Lumarian empire?" Jorhn shouted.

"I can handle any Lumarian. It is this lion whom we desire."

This time, Kavhen spoke up. "Do you really think the Captain would go with you willingly? He could tear you apart."

The Olissian glared down at Kavhen. He suddenly swung his massive fist, knocking Kavhen back. "I was not talking to you, beast."

Alexei stepped forward. "Don't you dare touch my men again. If you want me, then bring it on."

The Olissian snarled and ran forward, his long flaccid horns whipping about behind him. He swung his fist at Alexei.

Alexei stopped the attack easily with his left, mechanical arm. He twisted his wrist and grabbed hold of the Olissian's forearm, squeezing tightly. He pulled hard, forcing the Olissian closer. As he did, Alexei trust his knee into the alien's gut. Alexei released the arm and punched him hard in the face with his left paw, then again with his right. He then smashed his foot into the Olissian's face, sending the alien back into the wall.

The Olissian looked up at Alexei, his face covered in dark-purple blood. He said shakily, "They...they never told me... you would be so strong."

Alexei stood above the Olissian. "You'd be surprised how often I hear that."

"Please," the alien continued, "do not kill me. The Commune... they set this whole thing up."

"Set what whole thing up?"

The Olissian hesitated.

Alexei pressed his foot against the Olissian's neck. "Do not make me repeat myself."

"They... they orchestrated this entire thing; capturing the hostages, staging the battle outside, getting you up here..."

Alexei stepped off the Olissian's neck. "Why? What's the point? They'd be foolish to think you could have stopped me."

"No... that wasn't it. I was... I was just supposed to distract you."

"Distract me from what?"

The Olissian paused again.

Alexei stared at the alien, concentrating. A moment later, "We've got to go, now."

"What is it?" Eskelle asked.

"Just go!" Alexei barked.

The four moved into the lift.

From behind they faintly heard the Olissian. "Take me with you..."

Alexei turned back.

"Captain, are you-"

"Go on without me. I'll meet you back at the shuttle."

Without another word, the door slammed shut and the three Lumarians were off.

Alexei stood above the Olissian. "And why should I? You deserve exactly what you get."

"We are a defeated people, lion. The Commune took everything away from us."

Alexei felt some sympathy toward the alien. He, too, knew what the Commune were capable of. He had experienced their merciless wrath firsthand sixteen years ago. Alexei extended his right paw to the Olissian.

The alien reached up with his large clawed hand and grabbed onto Alexei.

Alexei pulled the Olissian up and turned to farthest wall. He walked toward it and thrust both paws forward. As he did, a force flew out and blasted a large hole in the wall.

"How did you-?"

"C'mon," Alexei held out his mechanical arm, wind whipping through the room. "We can't wait for the lift."

"So you want to jump?"

"Let's go!" Alexei grabbed onto the Olissian and pulled him out of the hole. The two fell through the air, just now clearing the clouds.

They could see a massive battle ensuing below; it was hard to believe it was all staged, just for him. As the two fell, Alexei could see, way off at the base of the near-by mountains, his team making their way to the shuttle.

Alexei slowed his descent, still gripping the Olissian's arm. He pulled the alien up and wrapped his paw around his waist, getting a better hold.

Moments later, Alexei took off. Just as he did, an violent explosion erupted behind them, one after another. Alexei cried out as the incredible heat nearly burned him alive. He and the Olissian were propelled toward the ground with an enormous amount of force. Large pieces of metal and giant shrapnel rained down on the lion. When Alexei recovered, he caught the dark-skinned alien and looked back at the former Olissian base; it had been reduced to a large flaming crater, like a giant black smear on the planets' light brown surface. Alexei shook his head as he recovered. He looked back at the shuttle. His team was still outside, now rushing toward the crater. Alexei took off toward them.

The Olissian shouted as Alexei flew rapidly toward the planet.

Alexei finally landed near the shuttle, dropping the alien. He looked over at his troops as they quickly rushed back, excited to see their commander alive.

Kavhen wrapped his large arms around Alexei and squeezed him hard. He was nearly in tears. "We all thought you were dead! We just barely got out ourselves."

"What's he doing here?" Raiche asked.

"I took him with me. Come on, let's get the hell out of here."

"I'm not gettin' on the shuttle with that," Axiroth exclaimed.

Alexei turned to Axiroth. "Excuse me? You will do what I say or I'll leave you behind!"

Axiroth scoffed and walked past Alexei.

"So, what happened with the dignitaries?" Raiche asked. "Obviously they're-"

"They were killed before we even got there. I'll explain the rest on the shuttle. In the meantime, help the Olissian onto the ship. The rest of you, get going."

The Elites piled onto the shuttle with the extra passenger. Moments later they took off for Sarbod, the snowy Lumarian planet which their main headquarters orbited over.

"So, Captain, tell us again why you brought the enemy on board?" Raiche said.

Alexei sighed. "Because I wanted to."

"Can we trust him?"

"I think so." Alexei turned to Kavhen. "How's your cheek, anyway?"

Kavhen glared at the Olissian. "It's fine... So, what's his name?"

Alexei looked over at the Olissian. "Well?"

"My name is Alyster."

"And you killed the dignitaries, didn't you?" Raiche asked.

"Yes."

"And you should be killed by us, shouldn't you?"

Alyster paused. "Yes."

"Give me five minutes with him..." Axiroth stood up and clenched his fists.

"Back off," Alexei said. "Just sit down and shut up."

Axiroth sat back down. He said, under his breath, "Give me five minutes with you..."

"Oh. Oh dear, no," Alexei laughed. "I sincerely hope you don't mean that. The last thing you want to do is piss me off."

"Why don't we just test that theory?" Axiroth said, now standing above the lion.

Alexei raised out of his seat calmly. He looked up at Axiroth, then without warning, he gripped Axiroth's neck and slammed him into the wall. He gripped tighter and said in a frightening voice, "You do not want to piss me off, got it? I could tear you apart so easily... just keep pushing me..." Alexei withdrew his paw and returned to his seat.

Axiroth fell to his seat, sweating.

The rest of the trip was spent in complete awkward silence until finally, the shuttle reached home.

* * *

Alexei sat in his room alone, deep in thought. It had been over six years since he was forced to lead the Lumarian Elite Corps. Over six years since he had seen his home planet of Earth. The only reminder of Earth he had left was a deep-red pendant given to him by his truelove, Kaelin, a laid-back kangaroo whom he cared for deeply, before he was taken away by the very aliens he now called family. Alexei had accepted long ago that he would never return to Earth and that his place was now with the Lumarians.

Kavhen then entered the room, interrupting Alexei's thoughts.

"What is it?" Alexei asked.

"I just wanted to see how you're doing."

"I'm fine. Any word from the Grande Council yet?"

Kavhen sighed. "Yeah... That's the other reason why I'm here. They were absolutely livid... and that's just putting it lightly. I don't know what they're going to do with you, but it won't be pretty."

Alexei lay back on his bed and sighed deeply. "That's just perfect..."

"They expect to hear back from you within the next fourty-eight hours. What're you going to tell them?"

"I don't know. The truth, I guess."

Kavhen took a seat on the edge of Alexei's bed. "And what about Alyster? If they found out we've got him, and that he's the one who..."

"I never said I'd tell them the whole truth."

"So, how will you explain holding an enemy? I mean, they're bound to find out eventually."

"I don't know," Alexei growled, rubbing his eyes. "I'll come up with something. In the meantime, "Alexei smiled, "I could use some entertainment."

Kavhen looked back at Alexei. He smiled and crawled onto the bed, on top of the lion. He lowered his head. "And just what kind of entertainment did you have in mind?" Kavhen kissed Alexei lightly on the cheek.

"Well, that's a good start," Alexei replied, putting both arms around Kavhen's neck. He pulled their lips together and the two shared a long, passionate kiss. Alexei's soul instantly ignited, filling the room with warmth. As they kissed, Alexei, with his right paw, caressed the back of Kavhen's neck, while with his left mechanical paw, he started to pull up on Kavhen's shirt.

Kavhen withdrew his lips and giggled slightly. He shut his dark eyes and allowed the lion to completely remove his shirt. He could feel his tight shirt sliding across his skin, and Alexei's sensual paws moving across his muscles. He could feel Alexei's warm, flesh paw tickle his left ribs, and the frigid steel paw tickle his right. Kavhen lifted his large arms as Alexei completely removed the shirt. Now topless, Kavhen began to lightly nuzzle and kiss Alexei's neck, while also caressing his warm, furry chest.

Alexei started to massage Kevhen's smooth, luminescent body, playing around with his nipples, which became hard from Alexei's cold left paw. Alexei gave a deep satisfied growl as the nipple passed under his paw, then feeling the muscular curve of Kavhen's pecs and the sensual grooves and bumps of his rib muscles. Each subtle bulge and bump of Kavhen's well-built, powerful body sent arousing shivers up Alexei's spine.

Kavhen rubbed his hands down Alexei's chest and midriff, making his way down to Alexei's belt. He started awkwardly unfastening it, not entirely sure how it works.

Alexei leaned up and laughed. "Having troubles?"

"How the hell do you work this?"

"Just depress the top and the bottom..."

Kavhen continued to struggle.

Alexei sat up, releasing the catch. "Was that so hard?" he laughed, lying back down.

"It was unnecessary." Kavhen removed the complex belt and tossed it aside. He then quickly removed Alexei's black baggy pants, revealing an almost fully erect member.

"Wasn't it worth the effort?" Alexei asked.

"I hope so." Kavhen smiled and nuzzled Alexei's fuzzy balls. He blew warm air on them from his nostrils, which made Alexei giggle.

Alexei suddenly felt something warm and moist wrap around his cock. He closed his eyes and focused on the sensation. He felt Kavhen's powerful tongue massage and tantalize the tip, sending sensual surges through his member. Alexei bit his lip and squirmed about as Kavhen's lips tightly wrapped around his throbbing cock, thrusting up and down. Alexei finally let out his breath, moaning loudly and whimpering incoherent words.

Kavhen laughed awkwardly, Alexei's cock still in his mouth. He continued working Alexei's organ while also fondling his balls, adding somewhat to the lion's pleasure. He also rubbed Alexei's soft inner thighs, caressing a new, medium-sized scar which hadn't yet fully healed.

As Kavhen's head bobbed up and down, his large flaccid horns draped over Alexei's crotch and a bit of his stomach, which he enjoyed. Alexei reached his right paw down and held one of the horns, rubbing it softly. Alexei eventually released the horn as his cock continued to throb even more. He allowed his body to go limp, focusing only on the sensation.

Kavhen, now swallowing down to Alexei's base, took a free hand and squeezed around Alexei's cock and balls, constricting some of the blood flow.

Alexei gasped as he felt the sudden change in pressure. He said, between breaths, "Warn me next time you do that." Alexei felt a strange sensation as his balls were pushed northward and his cock became more engorged. Suddenly all the sensations were heightened. Alexei could feel Kavhen's rough, textured, powerful tongue gliding across his wet cock. He could feel Kavhen's tightly-closed lips around his shaft, massaging sensually as it moved slowly up and down. Alexei felt hot in ecstasy. His entire body felt engulfed in cool flames, warming his flesh and heart. Only his steel mechanical arm felt lifeless and cold as it leeched off Alexei's flesh.

As Kavhen continued working Alexei's member, now focusing his furious muscles at the tip, Alexei could feel an incredible tingling approaching. Alexei opened his mouth slightly, baring his teeth, and let out a quiet moan. He shut his eyes as his orgasm quickly reached its zenith. Suddenly his cock exploded with ecstatic pleasure. Alexei let out a loud moan as he spread his seed.

Kavhen kept his fingers around Alexei's cock and balls as the hot spooge burst into his mouth and onto his muzzle. He swallowed the salty and sweet seed as it splashed the back of his throat, enjoying the unique taste. With his free hand he stroked Alexei's shaft and lapped up the remaining seed. Kavhen continued to massage Alexei's slowly softening member with his powerful tongue, trying to get in as much of his seed and the feeling as he could before Alexei went completely flaccid.

Alexei, sweaty and panting, leaned up to look at his mate. He squirmed slightly as the pleasure continued, then he laughed. He said, panting, "Kav... That's good. Thank you..." Alexei laughed again as Kavhen slowly lifted his head.

Kavhen crawled forward, atop his commander, his luminous pink organ throbbing. "You've had your fun, Captain, but where's mine?"

Alexei leaned forward and put his arms around Kavhen's neck. He looked into his lover's eyes and kissed his muzzle softly. He reached his flesh paw down and took a firm hold of Kavhen's warm cock.

Kavhen spread out his legs, leaning back on his palms, smiling.

Alexei sat cross-legged between Kavhen's outspread legs. He slowly stroked Kavhen's large member while carefully playing with his balls, using his cold, steel paw.

Kavhen leaned his head back and simply relaxed in the ecstacy. The sensation of Alexei's soft, warm paw on his cock and his steel, cold paw on his balls was an unusual and arousing feeling. Kavhen let out a long, satisfied moan as Alexei gently worked his organ.

Suddenly, from across the room, the door swung open. A calm and solemn Graunta walked in.

"Hey!" Alexei shouted, releasing Kavhen's cock. "What the hell are you doing? Can't you see I'm busy?"

Kavhen turned to face Graunta.

"Please forgive my interruption, Captain, but I have some urgent news for you."

Alexei leaned forward in his bed. "Well, Jesus Christ, Graunta, can't it wait? Kavhen and I were just-"

"No. With all due respect, sir, I don't think it can."

Alexei sighed. "What is it?"

"Well, we've been monitoring Commune chatter for quite some time now..."

"Yeah, so what? You've been doing that way before I came along."

Graunta cleared his throat and shifted nervously. "We recently picked up something... unusual."

Alexei stood up out of bed, naked. "How 'unusual?'"

"Well, usually we pick up a lot of worthless chatter from the Commune, but every so often we'll get something involving an attack or plans for attack..."

"So how is that unusual? What are they up to now?"

Graunta held up a small disc. "Normally this particular sort of chatter would be completely ignored, or at least filtered to a less urgent monitoring system..."

Alexei rolled his eyes. "Alright, so what makes this one so special?"

Graunta hesitated.

Kavhen, curious, got up and joined Alexei, also naked, and his pink organ still begging for more.

"Out with it," Alexei said, starting to get annoyed.

Graunta sighed. "The chatter we picked up came from your Solar System... from Earth."

"What? How... how is that possible? Why? Why the hell would they be out there? What are they doing? What's it say?"

"Nothing, Captain. The chatter... it's nothing."

"Bullshit! What the hell does it say?"

"It's just log entries, system checks... normal, ordinary reports... We would have completely dismissed it if it hadn't been coming from Earth. I mean, most advanced civilizations are forbidden by law to come in contact with less advanced life forms, such as the people on Earth. We're only allowed small outposts to monitor their progress discreetly."

Alexei glared at Graunta with hateful eyes.

Graunta staggered back. "Well, those... those were extraordinary times, Captain. No race could resist a prize so great..."

Alexei sighed. "Well, we've got to go. Now."

"But, Captain," Kavhen cut in, "what about the Grande Council?"

"Fuck the Grande Council! This is more important. We have to go."

Kavhen looked nervously over at Graunta.

"What the hell is wrong with you? I'm giving you an order!"

"If we all defy the Grande Council, sir, we could be looking at permanent exile with no exceptions," Kavhen pointed out.

"Fine," Alexei said bitterly. "I get it... I'll do it alone, coward." Alexei pushed past Graunta and left his room. He rushed through the corridor, shoving other Lumarians out of his way. He stormed into the large hall and made his way into the training room to get geared up. From the lounge, Alexei noticed Jorhn and Eskelle watching him quickly walk by. They, too, went after him.

Raiche and Axiroth were in the training room sparring. Alyster was sitting in the corner, watching the two. Alexei then burst in and went for his armour.

"What's going on? And where are your clothes? Are we on a mission?" Raiche asked.

"I am. You can come if you want, or you can stay behind with that coward, Kavhen."

Axiroth stepped forward and grabbed Alexei's arm. "Listen, you bastard, we lay down our lives for you every day! You should show us a little more respect."

Alexei turned and smacked Axiroth's arm away. "Fuck you. You have no right to talk to me about respect."

Jorhn and Eskelle entered the room. "What's going on?" Jorhn asked.

"He's on a mission," Axiroth replied. "Won't tell us what for, though."

"We have to exterminate some Commune, okay? Plain and simple."

"Why?"

"Because they're the enemy. They deserve to die."

Kavhen entered with Graunta.

"I would have expected that attitude from you six years ago, Captain, but not now. What's going on?" Jorhn asked.

Alexei sighed. "We picked up Commune chatter near Earth... I have to check it out."

"Earth?" Axiroth cut it. "What the hell's so great about Earth? They're a bunch of primitive savages. Who cares if they're there?"

The room went dead silent. The rest of the Lumarians stood paralyzed in the tension, eyes darting back and forth between Axiroth and Alexei.

Alexei faced Axiroth and just stared. "You wanna know who cares about Earth?" he started calmly, slowly approaching the Lumarian. "Do you want to know who cares about Earth?" Alexei suddenly grabbed onto Axiroth's throat and squeezed hard, growling and baring his teeth.

Axiroth, shocked, struggled as he fell to his knees, choking and gasping desperately for air.

Alexei said, in a dark malevolent voice, "I'll tell you who cares about Earth, you disgusting, vile piece of shit... I do... I care about Earth!" Alexei threw Axiroth away.

Axiroth clambered to his feet, coughing and trying to catch his breath.

"I'm going, and I don't care what you say. I have to stop them."

"Sir," Eskelle began, "I know how you must be feeling right now, but this isn't the kind of situation you can just rush into."

"Why the hell not? I'm the most powerful being in the galaxy."

"With all due respect, sir, as far as we can tell, the Commune aren't even doing anything illegal, except breaking their own laws for being there... In which case, Captain, we have no right to punish them for their crimes. There isn't even any proof that they've touched down on the planet yet. Perhaps they're just passing by... as a sort of short cut."

"Do you honestly believe that, Eskelle?" Alexei asked skeptically.

"Well, no, but I was just suggesting-"

"You're just lookin' for an excuse to go home," Axiroth interrupted.

Once again, all eyes were on the two.

"Ax..." Graunta started.

"Back off, old man. I may be new here, but I ain't stupid. I know who you are, sir, and I know what happened to you. I don't doubt for a second that you're just dyin' to get home and never have to see us again."

Alexei growled. "I have given over six years of my life to this team and to your people. How dare you accuse me of such disloyalty. I would never abandon my team like that, ever... Not even the likes of you."

Axiroth lowered his head and backed off. The other Lumarians just stared at their commander.

Alexei grunted and turned around, continuing to gather his supplies. Ignoring the others, he slipped on the bottom half of his armour. He then felt a warm hand on his shoulder. "Don't touch me," he said angrily.

Kavhen moved both hands across Alexei's shoulders and down his chest, hugging him from behind. He held his trembling commander tightly. Kavhen said quietly, "I'll come with you, Captain... I will always be there for you, no matter what. I just don't want to see you get hurt, that's all. Being back on Earth after so many years..."

Alexei placed his right paw on Kavhen's warm hands. With a tear, he replied, "Thank you, Kavhen... but, maybe this is something I have to do alone. I... I don't want you all to get exiled because of me..."

Kavhen smiled. He lowered his head and whispered in Alexei's ear, "Fuck the Grande Council..."

Alexei smiled.

* * *

Alexei carefully strapped himself into the co-pilot's seat, fully armed and armoured. He leaned forward and flicked numerous switches. "I'm ready on this end."

"Copy that, sir. We are good to go." With that, Raiche pulled forward the control panel and pressed a few of the touch-screen buttons. The engine's quiet hum quickly turned into a loud whir.

Alexei turned in his seat and looked back at his team. He smiled. "I guess it's just the five of us again, huh? ... plus one more..."

The Elite Corps looked up at their commander and smiled in return. Alyster, who had decided to join the Elites, also smiled.

Graunta went on, "Well, to be fair, Captain, I'm not part of the Corps anymore... That's what Axiroth should be here for..."

"Yes, well, forget him. It'll be like old times."

A voice then sounded statically on the panel. Alexei turned and pressed a button. "Come to bid us farewell?"

"No... I... I want to join you," the voice shouted.

"Sorry, but we'll be blasting off at any second now. Why the change of heart?"

"Please, sir... I want to do this..."

Alexei cut the transmission and turned to Raiche. He paused for a moment then sighed. "Open the damn hatch."

"Yes sir..." Raiche said reluctantly.

The back hatch opened and a powerful blast of air rushed through the small hull. Moments later, Axiroth climbed up and into the shuttle, grabbing onto a piece of the ship to keep himself on board.

Alexei stood up and walked carefully over to the flailing Lumarian. He bent down, grabbing hold of the bench beside him, and grasped Axiroth's hand. He pulled the Lumarian up and helped him to a seat.

Finally, the door slammed shut.

Axiroth took a seat between Alyster and Kavhen, panting. He strapped himself in and shortly after, the shuttle took off, departing the space station and Sarbod's orbit in a few short minutes. He opened his mouth to say something but was greeted only with Alexei's back.

Alexei returned to the cockpit. He slumped back in his chair and turned to Raiche. "Once we're at the proper distance, engage the hyper drive and let's get the hell outta here."

"Yes sir."

"And also, ignore any transmissions coming from all Lumarian bandwidths. I don't want to be interrupted by their damn protocols. I'm going to have a little chat with the latecomer, so tell me if anything important comes up."

"Can do."

Alexei turned around in his seat and looked at his team. "So," he started, "I've gotta ask you, Ax: What brings you aboard my ship? If I remember correctly, you were very much opposed to the idea of visiting Earth."

Axiroth looked up at his commander. "I... I wanted to come along, sir."

"So I see... But what changed your mind?"

"I'm part of this team, Captain. I don't want to let you down."

Jorhn scoffed. "Why the sudden change of opinion?"

"Because... the Captain's right... He would give his life for me, despite how I treat him... I guess I just didn't appreciate that until today."

"Well isn't that cute," Eskelle teased. "Our little Ax is growing up."

Alyster laughed aloud.

"Fuck you," Axiroth spat.

"Alright," Alexei interrupted, "that's enough." He turned to Axiroth. "I certainly appreciate it, Ax. Just don't let me down."

Axiroth hesitated. "Yes... yes, sir..." he said quietly.

Alexei turned back around into the cockpit.

"We're ready to engage the hyper drive, Captain. Just say the word."

"Right... um... engage."

With a jolt, the shuttle suddenly entered hyper drive. After a few minutes of shaky turbulence, the shuttle was running smoothly.

"How long can we maintain this speed, Raiche?"

"If the ship's in its best condition, I'd give it about eight to ten hours."

"How long will it take to reach the Solar System?"

"It would only take about twenty hours if we could maintain the hyper drive long enough, but that's impossible. If I had to guess, I'd say it'll take around thirty-five to forty hours."

"Oh man..." Alexei groaned. "I hate having to sleep in these shuttles... it's cramped and stuffy..." Alexei leaned over and whispered, "Plus Kavhen and I'll have no privacy."

Raiche laughed.

Alexei looked out the window at the blur of stars rushing by. It had only begun to set in that he was now making his way back to his home planet, Earth. Alexei couldn't have waited long enough for this day six years ago, but now he felt hesitant. He wanted very badly to see his home again, but he also feared how it may have changed. What had become of his truelove? Perhaps Alexei was dooming the planet by simply returning. Perhaps without him the planet had eventually succumbed to alien forces. Thoughts and visions swirled around, confusing the lion. He did not know if he should return, but he knew as long as the Commune existed, he could not rest. He could never rest until he has had his revenge. Suddenly, a loud transmission interrupted his thoughts.

"Lumar-Sarbodian Spacecraft LS 33543-X... you have entered an unauthorized Vector without the proper clearance... Please return now or we will be forced to-"

Alexei cut the transmission.

Raiche looked over at Alexei. "Sir, I don't think that was a good idea. Unless you want to risk-"

"Just get us to safety. Disengage the hyper drive if you have to. Just outmaneuver them and get us the hell out of here. You're the best pilot we've got..."

Raiche sighed. The monitor to his right started to blink and an alarm sounded.

"What is it?"

"We've got three Hunter-class Fighters tailing us... I told you this wasn't a good idea." Raiche cut the hyper drive and suddenly the Fighters jumped closer. Raiche took manual control of the shuttle and quickly turn into a small asteroid belt.

Alexei turned to his team. "Alright, boys, we've got some assholes tailing us, so we're fucked unless Raiche can shake 'em. So just sit tight... it's gonna be a bumpy ride."

Raiche cursed as the ship was fired upon. "Fuck! We aren't gonna make it at this rate!" Raiche was sweating profusely as he steered the shuttle around and under massive asteroids, as well as avoiding enemy fire.

The shuttle was struck again.

"This is suicide!" Axiroth shouted.

"No it's not... Everybody, put your helmets on. Raiche, open the back hatch..."

"What?" Raiche shouted. "Are you insane?"

"Yes, but do it anyway. I've got an idea." Alexei put his helmet on and turned a valve on the side to allow airflow. "Everybody strap in and hold on tight..."

The back hatch opened and suddenly the team was wrenched toward the opening. Alexei walked slowly and carefully toward the rear of the ship, holding on tight.

"What the fuck are you doing?" Axiroth shouted.

Alexei ignored him. Looking out the back, he could easily see the three nimble Fighters catching up, as well as the hundreds of small and large asteroids thrashing about as the ship agilely maneuvered around them. Alexei grabbed onto a bar at the top of the shuttle and suddenly swung himself out and onto the top of the hull. Alexei closed his eyes tightly and stood there firmly, holding his paws together and lifting them to his face. He concentrated hard on the extremely turbulent space around him, trying desperately to maintain his powerful aura.

Alexei opened his eyes just as a small asteroid smashed into him.

The asteroid exploded around the lion, denting his armour. And yet, Alexei stayed his ground. Alexei growled as his mental aura steadily spread. Suddenly, the small asteroids smashed and deflected off an invisible force surrounding the lion.

The three Fighters started to concentrate their fire on Alexei. Each strong blast exploded off Alexei's energy, barely fazing the lion.

Alexei held his clasped paws outward, then spread them apart. With his paws to his side, he breathed in deeply and shut his eyes, now lifting his paws above his head. He slowly forced his paws down, as if gathering energy. A moment later, Alexei thrust his paws forward as if giving a hug. He opened his eyes and shouted terribly, his arms and paws trembling.

Suddenly, as Alexei slammed his paws together, two large asteroids collided, crushing a Fighter between them. Alexei, still shouting ferociously, lifted his right paw and held it there for a moment. He widened his psychotic eyes and thrust his paw down, forcing another large asteroid to smash through another Fighter's hull like a meteor tearing through a planets' surface. Only one Fighter remained.

The Fighter was now firing madly at Alexei, each blast being deflected.

Alexei gripped his fists tightly, staring wickedly at the remaining ship, his teeth bared and growling angrily. He let out another terrifying scream as he thrust his paws forward. He moved his fingers together as if grabbing onto an invisible object. As he did, the Fighter stopped firing, asteroids continually pummeling its hull. Alexei lowered his head and growled deeply, focusing on the ship. He slowly spread out his trembling arms. As he did, the Fighter started to tear in half, the sound of bending and splitting metal just barely audible. The ship now nearly torn in two, Alexei let out one last scream, sending an asteroid down into the ship, crushing everything beneath.

Alexei now turned around, facing the front of the shuttle, small asteroids and debris still crashing into him. He snarled and bent his knees, leaning over slightly, and lowered his head. He held his paws close as he growled and concentrated. Moments later, Alexei let out a horrifying cry as he spread his incredible force outward, pushing the hundreds and thousands of asteroids away from the shuttle. Alexei continued to howl as he forced the asteroids out as far as he could.

Alexei stopped and fell to his knees, the sweat pouring down his face and panting heavily. He got up to one knee and looked forward. He knew they were almost out of the asteroid field... just a bit further. Alexei stood up shakily and held out his right paw, waving it calmly in front of him as he caught his breath. With each stroke of his paw, a large asteroid moved peacefully out of the way. Alexei eventually stopped when their path was cleared. He turned back around and grabbed onto the bar and swung back into the shuttle. As he collapsed to the floor, the back hatch closed and the Lumarians soon removed their helmets.

They released their straps and surrounded Alexei.

Axiroth looked down on him in awe. "That... that was incredible..."

Alexei removed his helmet and turned onto his back, looking up at his team. He looked at Axiroth and said, between breaths, "Now you know why you don't want to fuck with me?" Alexei smiled.

Axiroth smiled back.

Kavhen kneeled down beside Alexei and squeezed him hard, stroking the lion's back. "Thank God you're safe..."

The Lumarians and Alyster sat back in their seats as Alexei began to laugh.

"You know you don't have anything to be afraid of..." Alexei shut his eyes.

"I know..." Kavhen placed his commander back down carefully, also returning to his seat.

Alexei shakily clambered to his feet and looked down at Axiroth. "Take a hike, junior. You're in my seat."

Axiroth stood up right away. "Yes sir," he said obediently. He moved and sat across from Alexei, between Jorhn and Graunta.

Alexei sat down and took a hold of Kavhen's arm, holding his hand. He sighed happily has he lay his head on Kavhen's shoulder, shutting his eyes.

Kavhen smiled and rest his right hand atop Alexei's, caressing the metal paw.

Soon Alexei drifted off to sleep in his lover's arms. In less than two days Alexei would be back on Earth. A part of him was restless and excited, yet another was nervous and anxious. He wanted so badly so see his home again, but at what cost would the planet pay? Alexei didn't know what to expect on Earth, but he knew whatever was waiting for him, he would not be alone. He knew his team would be there for him.

* * *

Alexei opened his eyes to the quiet hum of the shuttle and Kavhen's hand on his lap. He was leaned over on the other side, fast asleep. The rest of Alexei's team was also asleep, spread all over the floor and the limited seats, and the shuttle was drifting calmly through space. Alexei, taking large steps over his team so as to not disturb them, made his way to the cockpit. He sat in down and leaned over the control panel. Alexei sighed.

"Something wrong, Captain?" Axiroth asked.

Alexei jumped. "What the hell are you doing in the pilot's seat?"

"Just getting a good view."

"It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Axiroth looked over at Alexei. "What is?"

Alexei pointed out the window. "That, right there... Space, the universe, everything. The dark, infinite void... billions of stars and planets and life forms... it really makes you think."

"Whatever you say."

"What are you doing up, anyway?"

"I can't sleep... You know, you really freaked me out today..."

Alexei turned his chair to face Axiroth. "Oh?"

"I knew you were strong, and that you were a good fighter... but I had no idea you had that kind of power. You were ruthless up there. It was incredible"

"Well, I try to use my power as little as possible."

"But why? You could crush entire armies with those powers!"

"I would be unstoppable, wouldn't I?"

"Well, yeah. I guess you would."

"Do you know why my body is covered with scars?"

"Because you fight a lot."

"Yes, but do you know why I fight a lot?"

Axiroth shook his head.

"Because I am unstoppable. I won't die... There is something within me that keeps my body up, that keeps me going, that keeps me breathing. If it were up to me, I would have died sixteen years ago." Alexei removed the bracer on his right arm, revealing dozens of small, deep scars on his wrist.

"What... what the hell?"

"I've tried dozens of times, Ax. But I just won't die..."

"Why? Why would you want to die?"

"Because these powers made my life a living hell. I was hunted, as you well know. For ten years of my life I did nothing but fight and run. And when I encountered an enemy too great for me... I lose it."

Axiroth stared in awe at his commander.

"Every scar is my body refusing to give in; refusing to fall; refusing to die. And when my body is pushed over the edge, I am no longer in control. It's as if something takes over... Something horrible; something evil... That's why I refuse to use my power... it always ends up hurting those I love."

"I... I had no idea. I'm... sorry I was so rough on you."

Alexei smiled. He leaned over and rubbed Axiroth's shoulder. "It's alright, Ax. I can't blame you. I know it's hard having to take orders from an Earthling." Alexei leaned back. "When I started here, neither I nor my team wanted me there... and I think I was the worst about it."

Axiroth laughed.

"The only one who never seemed to mind was Kavhen..."

"Is that why you two...?"

Alexei nodded. "It took me a long time, but he helped me realize that my place was with you guys."

Axiroth smiled. "Where did you get that pendant? Did Kavhen give that to you?"

Alexei lowered his head and held the shiny red stone. "I got this before I was taken from Earth... A friend, Kaelin, gave it to me... so I won't forget him."

"So, you must really want to get home then..."

"Go to sleep, Ax. We're gonna arrive in less then twenty-four hours."

Axiroth turned slowly. "Yes sir..." he said quietly.

Alexei leaned back in his chair and sighed. He leaned on the control panel, staring into the eternal vastness of space. He continued to just stare for hours, watching small bright planets and moons rush past the shuttle, concentrating on the life forms. Most planets were too far away for Alexei to pick anything up, but every so often the shuttle would fly low enough for him to learn a few interesting facts.

This bright blue planet they had just passed, for example, is plagued with famine and civil war. The brash Ovaconn's, split almost into two nations by conflicting ideals, have been at war for nearly one hundred years, and show no signs of an end. They have used nearly every natural resource on their planet and recognize that only by working together can they achieve peace and prosperity. Unfortunately, as Human Nature would have it, it would never happen. Alexei almost felt sorry for the pitiful people of Ovaconn. He sighed as the voices disappeared once again into nothingness, and he continued to stare out the window.

Many hours passed as the shuttle flew gracefully through space. Alexei continued to pilot the ship, pressing buttons and flipping switches, until he was finally joined by Raiche, who had just kicked Axiroth out of his seat.

Raiche let out a big yawn as he sat down.

Alexei, watching Raiche, also yawned. "Ooh. That's contagious," he mused.

"So, Captain, see anything interesting while we were sleeping?"

"Not unless you find all this," Alexei paused and waved his paw across the window, "interesting. How was your sleep?"

"It was alright, all things considered. How much time do we have until we reach the Solar System?"

Alexei looked down at the control panel. "Uh," he started, trying to decipher the Lumarian numerical codes. "About... sixteen hours."

"Very good," Raiche said condescendingly. "Now," Raiche held up his hands, "how many fingers am I holding up?" He was holding up four.

"Fuck you," Alexei laughed. "You take over for now. I'm going to the back." Alexei got out of his seat and made his way to Kavhen, stepping over Axiroth who was currently sprawled across the shuttle floor. He sat beside his lover and rubbed his shoulder gently.

Kavhen slowly opened his eyes. "What's up?" he said groggily.

Alexei replied with a smile.

"Well isn't that sweet?" Jorhn mocked from across the shuttle, who had an equally tired Eskelle resting on his lap.

Eskelle opened her eyes. "Quit talking," she said. "I can't sleep."

"It's been eight hours," Jorhn replied. "You've had enough sleep. If you ask me, eight hours is more than enough."

Axiroth stirred about on the floor.

Jorhn lightly kicked Axiroth. "Get up, you lazy bastard."

"Fuck you," Axiroth muttered from beneath his large arms. "If Graunta doesn't have to get up, neither do I."

"Graunta's old," Jorhn said. "He needs more sleep than we do."

"I'm not that old," Graunta said in his deep raspy voice. "And I could kick your ass any time and any place, you little punk."

"Bring it on, old man," Jorhn laughed.

"Cut it out," Alexei interrupted. "Your captain's got a headache from listening to you all."

"We were just having fun, sir."

Alexei looked up and glared at the four. "Well, try to have fun more quietly. We've got sixteen hours to go and this boat's not moving as fast as I'd like it to be." Alexei looked over to the cockpit. "So, you think you can get the hyper drive working again?" he called back to Raiche.

"Hard to say," Raiche called back. "We exhausted most of the energy cells when we cut the drive earlier... we've got replacements, but someone will have to go out and replace them."

"How long will that take?"

"Depends on whether they know what they're doing or not."

"Well, count me out," Alexei said. "What about you?" Alexei pointed to Eskelle.

"Dammit, sir, I'm a doctor, not an engineer."

"Uh huh... Jorhn?"

"Don't look at me. As far as I know, Raiche's the only one who knows how. And if he can do two things at once, well then we'd be set."

"Raiche," Alexei called, "can you replace the cells?"

"Not unless you guys know what you're doing down here."

"How hard can it be?" Axiroth said, lifting his head.

"Extremely," Raiche replied bluntly. "If you don't calibrate the engine-output at just the right moment, it'll blow the reactor-core and we'll be stuck, drifting helplessly through space."

The rest of the crew stared at Raiche, dumbfounded.

"I can probably do it," Alyster spoke up.

"Oh yeah," Axiroth said, getting to his feet, "and then you'll blow us all to pieces. Do you really think we can trust you?"

Ignoring Axiroth, Alyster continued, "I was one of our chief engineers on my home planet, Olissar. I was at the top of my field, until our people signed a so-called peace accord with the Commune... after they had invaded. Some of Olissar's greatest minds were forced into military positions, myself included. I am no fighter. I am a scientist. So, I implore you, allow me to prove my worth."

Alexei rested his left paw on Alyster's shoulder, smiling. "If you think you can do it, go right ahead." Alexei turned to Raiche. "When he's ready, do your thing. I'm counting on you two."

Alyster turned and put on his helmet as the ships' engines powered down. He bolted the helmet and turned on the oxygen, making sure none of his many long, flaccid horns created a leak. Alyster gave a thumbs-up and the back hatch finally opened. The Olissian climbed out and beneath the hull, his thick, whip-like horns waving about gracefully in the zero gravity. He carefully moved across the belly of the ship, carrying three large, fully-charged energy cells on his back.

Alexei stood at the edge of the doorway, carefully watching Alyster.

Alyster crawled along the ships' hull until he finally reached the small access hatch. He unsealed the opening and released the safety cover. As the safety cover was released, an eerie blue gaseous substance poured out of the hatch. Alyster shook his head as the strange blue enveloped his body. Suddenly, he felt an odd burning sensation in his exposed, tough horns. Alyster growled as he tried to wave the mist away. The burning became more intense and the Olissian cried out loud, thrashing his head about. His large thick horns whipped hard against the hull, banging loudly.

Alexei, feeling the hard bangs under his feet and hearing the loud cries over the comm, leaned out further. "Are you alright? What's going on?"

"Shutting down the hyper drive caused the old cell to rupture!" Alyster screamed as he desperately shook the gas away. "The energy is leaking out and burning my skin."

"How long can you hold out for?"

"I'll be fine... I've experienced worse, your thrashing included." Alyster gritted his teeth and snarled, reaching for the damaged cell. He grabbed hold and ripped it out of the access hatch, throwing it behind him. Shortly after, the acidic blue mist dissipated along with the broken cell. Alyster reached behind and grabbed a fully-charged energy cell from his back. He slid it into the slot and held it there. "Lieutenant Raiche, I am ready to restore the energy cell. Tell me when you are ready."

Raiche, sitting in the cockpit, quickly entered various codes and fliped a switch. "I've prepared the slot for the new cell. The safety dampers have been activated and is ready for the energy input."

"Roger that. Infusing energy cell now." Alyster slowly replaced the cell into the slot and locked it in place. He turned a small dial and slowly depressed a large red button. As the engines kicked on, the deep blue energy within the cell swirled around. Alyster replaced the safety cover and closed the access hatch. Just as he did, the ship jolted forward, sending Alyster flying away from the shuttle. He cried out as he watched the ship fly away.

Alexei, recovering from the hard jolt, noticed Alyster's body and leaped out of the ship. He took off quickly toward the drifting Olissian. As he reached out his left paw, he looked back and noticed the ship getting smaller. "Grab my paw!" he shouted.

Alyster reached out his hand and grasped onto Alexei.

Alexei turned and flew toward the shuttle. He held out his right paw and concentrated on the ship.

The shuttle suddenly stopped, and despite the engines, moved toward Alexei. As the ship approached, Alexei pulled himself in. He looked down at Alyster. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, I am fine. Thank you, Captain. I owe you my life twice now."

"Hey, we all look out for each other. I was just doing my job."

Alyster, through his tinted helmet, smiled.

Alexei floated onto the ship, his mates pulling the two in. The back hatch closed and the gravity and oxygen was finally restored.

Alexei fell to his knees. He quickly removed his helmet and looked up at Eskelle. "Alyster needs medical attention. You heard what that shit did to him."

"Yes, sir." Eskelle removed Alyster's helmet and set him on his side carefully. "Try not to move, Alyster. You've got serious burns and I have to clean and wrap them... Everyone, give me some room."

The rest of the team sat in their seats, watching Eskelle work.

"I am fine, doctor. I do not need your attention."

"That stuff ate right through your flesh. How can you tell me you're fine?"

"I do not feel anything."

"That's because it destroyed most of the nerves up to your helmet." Eskelle grabbed onto the thick base of one of the long flaccid horns, rubbing and squeezing it gently. "Feel that?"

"Yes. It feels nice."

Eskelle moved her hand down into the damaged area. "What about now?"

"I do not feel anything..."

"Thank you." Eskelle turned to Jorhn, "Pass me my supplies. I need plenty of the povidone-iodine solution and bandages, now." Eskelle grabbed a large bottle of the antiseptic and soaked a large gauze pad, keeping the flaccid horn from touching the floor. "Someone help me keep this up."

Axiroth, who was sitting closest, hesitated.

Eskelle whipped her head back. "Get over here!" she barked.

Axiroth bent down and held the Olissian's horn.

Eskelle patted down the entire horn. "Do you feel anything?"

"A bit of stinging in a few areas..."

"Well, that's good. That means at least some of the nerves are still alive. I'm just wrapping you up now, okay?"

"Thank you."

Eskelle wrapped the entire horn in thick white bandages. She did the same, with Axiroth's continued help, with the many other flaccid horns. Almost twenty minutes later, she was done. She patted the Olissian on the shoulder and helped him to his feet.

"I thank you, Lumarian. I owe this team a great deal."

"Damn straight, you do." Axiroth blurted out.

"Well, I've got to warn you, Alyster, as the nerves slowly start to heal, it'll probably irritate you quite a bit, and most likely cause you some pain. But at least we won't have to cut them off."

"Good job, men. If everything's gone according to plan, we'll reach Earth in six or seven hours. Rest up, especially you, Alyster." Alexei sat in the cockpit beside Raiche.

"The hyper drive energy's been restored. Would you like me to engage now?"

"I'm sick of waiting. Get us the hell out of here."

With that, Raiche activated the hyper drive and soon the shuttle took off toward Earth. Nothing could stop Alexei now from reaching his home. The tired lion sat back and relaxed his tense muscles, slowly drifting to sleep. "I'm coming," he muttered. "I'm coming..."