Adasion

The women were full of questions and the sun with a day moon was high in the sky as they left the Egg Fields. The evening would have two more moons making a brighter night.

Sophia spoke, “This is so different to everything we’ve know. Will we be okay?”

“I think so. I’m thinking of this as a new opportunity. I mean, I am a bit frustrated. Sophia, I’m older than everyone here. I had already a career. I had responsibilities. A whole town relied on me as mayor. I know that they can find someone else to take over, but I still wonder if they are out there looking for me.”

“My family must be terrified. We are so close. We were supposed to celebrate my sister’s quincenera in a few months. But if they’re looking for me…”

Juliana hugged Sophia. They stood together for some time. Juliana hadn’t allowed herself to cry. She only shed tears the first night she arrived. Having another to share in her loss allowed her to open the locked vault of her emotions. She had been in survival mode. Yes, she was staying with Nue’ant in a luxurious place, but there was so much she didn’t know in this world. She had been living on autopilot.

Jun’ep discreetly handed them handkerchiefs. They stood to the side wringing their hands.

“This was supposed to be a joyous day for the arrived. I was hoping that seeing how we’re born would make you more comfortable, Lady Juliana. I was worried you’d be disgusted by us. I hadn’t considered how much you missed where you’re from. I’m sorry you cannot return to Earth, Lady. You’re special. I finally have a purpose at the mansion since the war. I want you to love our world as much as I do. There is good here. Please, don’t cry.”

“Thank you, Jun’ep. I was—I was just mourning. We are experiencing a loss. We’ve lost a world we can never return to.”

As they boarded the carriage Jun’ep whispered, “Then maybe I have some good news for you. Lady Juliana, I have located the human male, Royce. Would you like to greet him? He’s in the Do district.”

Sophia overheard him, “What’s that? I am coming too.”

Her Mi level guards baulked and protested. “My lady, we must return to Prince Hirote. They will be very worried.”

“They really care about you, my lady. If we’re late, we’ll never hear the end of it.”

Sophia glared, “I will not live in a prison. If I wish to meet an acquaintance, I will.”

“It’s rougher in the Do districts, my lady!” a guard protested.

“That’s why you two and Juliana’s guard will accompany us.”

Sophia’s guard bent down and spoke low to Jun’ep, “You know there’s kidnappers there. Your suggestion puts both ladies at risk.”

Jun’ep raised his chin, “The ladies have every right to know the truth about what happens to men in Asa Dominion. I won’t hide it from them. Better for them to know then to be blamed for ignorance later.”

The guard spit, “You servants of the Fa think you’re higher than everyone else. You’re always surrounded by fancy things and you forget the real dangers.”

Jun’ep’s pale skin turned several shades darker, “I served in the war and was promoted twice, despite my Re level. Do not insult me further or we shall have a problem.”

The guard raised his hands, “Fine, fine. Have it your way.”

Juliana watched the exchange, “If that is all, let’s go. Thank you Jun’ep for remembering my concern.”

“Anytime, my lady.” He bowed low.