FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

CHAPTER ONE

SHELTER SWITCH

Darin and Robert had been working for FUPA (Florida Underwater Preserve Agency) for about two years. The company had a surge of uncharted shipwrecks in the last few months following the end of the second Vlatorran war. The war would have lasted for years if the Universal Police had not stepped in and stopped the slaughter.

Darin and Robert were diving on the wreck of the USS Sharnhorse, a Ticonderogaclass cruiser that was sunk during the war. They dove to a depth of two hundred feet toward the forward deck of the cruiser. The boys were followed by Kea, a bottlenose dolphin that was their guardian angel and it was a good thing too, considering that they were usually in trouble.

Darin and Robert were on the forward deck next to the turret. The ocean current causing the sunlight to dance, casting shadows on the superstructure. The sunlight lit up the wreck, making flashlights unnecessary. They entered the ship to begin mapping the bridge area. They communicated with the radios built in their respirators.

"Okay we'll mark hazards and rate the bridge." said Darin.

"Rate the bridge, how?" Robert asked.

"Judge whether or not it is worth seeing." Darin replied.

"Oh, I see."

They entered through an open door on the port side.

"Let's shed some light on the situation," said Darin as he and Robert took out their flashlights.

The light lit up the interior, revealing wires that had been knocked loose when the torpedo struck the ship. They swam deeper into the ship searching for a way up to the bridge. As they searched, they were continually taking in their surroundings.

The walls were free of growth for the most part. Some areas had small barnacles starting to form. The water was calm inside the ship. They finally came to a set of stairs that led up to the bridge. They swam up to the bridge and took in the view from the windows. The bridge was definitely worth seeing. Looking out of the windows, they had a sense of the ship traveling on the ocean floor.

They then swam back down and out of the ship. Kea was waiting for them as they emerged from the ship.

"So how was it?" he asked.

"It was great, the view was worth the swim," Robert replied.

"We better return to the office and turn in our report," said Darin.

They swam back to the surface next to their twenty-foot Boston Whaler that was provided by FUPA. They climbed up onto the deck, took off their scuba gear, and set them on the deck. Darin started the engines while Robert pulled the anchor up. They sped off back to the company docks in Brickelle Marina and tied up the Whaler. They then went into the locker room and changed into their normal clothes.

Darin wore blue jean shorts that extended six inches below the knee. He also wore a FUPA t-shirt.

Robert wore the same shorts except that he had a Notre Dame t-shirt, which he wore with pride.

They left the locker room and headed up to the second floor to turn in their report. They walked into an office two doors down from the stairs. Inside was a man behind a desk. He was looking at some papers when they walked in. Darin cleared his throat loudly to get his attention.

"Oh you're back, how was the bridge view?"

"Well worth the dive Tom. There were some wires hanging around but they did not pose any real danger." Darin replied.

"Hey listen, Darin. We just got a call from AUPA, our Alaska division in Anchorage. They told us that they were looking for a group of experienced divers to examine some wrecks around there. We were wondering if you and Robert would be interested in taking up this offer."

"We would be glad to accept it. Is there anything else we should know." said Darin.

"Yes, they are asking us to we send a group of three there. We were going to send Chuck with you two; however, he was injured on a wreck. I was wondering if you know someone who would be interested in going." Tom said.

"I do." Darin replied.

"Great, who is it?" Tom asked.

"I'll let you find out when it's time for us to leave. Speaking of which, when do they need us there?" Darin asked.

"They said that they would have a date for us in the coming weeks. The weather is not allowing air traffic to leave the ground." Tom replied.

"Thanks Tom. Keep us posted," said Darin.

"When you bring your third member please tell me," Tom said.

"I'll do that," Darin replied.

They left the office and went down stairs to punch out before they left for the day. They headed out of the office building into the Monday evening sun on April 9th 2018. They walked over to the staff parking lot and snaked their way over to Darin's new Ford F-650.

Darin had bought the truck online from a dealer in Miami. The truck was a beast and could haul a huge load behind it. They climbed into the truck and Darin started the engine. The engine roared to life and they pulled out of the parking lot. They turned left onto Southeast 15th Road then turned left onto U.S. highway one. They then bearded onto Southwest 37th Avenue. They turned left onto East Sunset Avenue and followed it to Sunrise Drive where their house was. Out in front of the house the "Demon's Law" bus was parked. Darin chuckled to himself at how a rock band of girls ended up living with them. It was funny how the whole thing worked out.

He drove up the driveway and parked the truck in the garage. They climbed down from the truck and walked inside the house to end their seven-mile journey.

Their house over looked the Biscayne Bay. The inside of the house was very open. The kitchen was in the center of the first floor. A big cathedral window brought in light from outside to light up the great room. A stairway went up to the second floor where the bedrooms were. A walkway went around the entire upstairs like a suspended track. A large cathedral window looked out onto the bay. The basement had a pool that was connected to the bay by a tunnel, which was large enough for a dolphin.

On the couch in the great room was Shora, looking gorgeous as ever. Shora wasa lovely orca he had met in Miami Florida. She was a member of a rock group called "Demon's Law". Shora was an arthro orca, meaning she was an orca in a human form. She was the most beautiful thing Darin ever laid eyes on.Next to her was Jasmine, another female arthro orca. Jasmine was the wife of Sethi-Arh, who was a male arthro orca.

Robert closed the door behind them as they entered the house. Their entrance was met with surprised looks. Shora stood up from the couch and walked over to Darin. She embraced and kissed him deeply.

At that moment, Selin, a sleek black dragoness came down the stairs. She walked over to Robert and picked him up in her arms. She held him like a mother would hold a newborn. She brought her head down and kissed him tenderly.

From the kitchen, Sethi-Arh stood to watch. He was a buff male, and was the guardian angel of Darin and Robert. He loved the boys and dedicated his life to protect them. Sethi-Arh was the cook of the house and he was proud of his skill. Cooking for those he loved made him feel important in the family. He was an incredible chief, making dishes left and right that would have earned him the title of "world-class" cook.

In addition to his ability to cook, Sethi-Arh was also a loving family member. He took time to talk to everyone and ask them how their day was going. Sethi-Arh was also protective of those he loved. During the concert on the Miami beach last year in mid September, he fended off jealous fans as they were attempting to cause harm to Darin when he was called up to the stage that night.

Sethi-Arh watched as Shora kissed Darin. It was funny to watch. Shora trying to lock lips while Darin tried to avoid it. He laughed when Darin dropped to the floor when Shora almost had him pinned. Shora laughed also as she watched her love wipe his face and stand up slowly. Robert was cracking up in Selin's arms. Selin was laughing too, rocking Robert as she inhaled.

"Okay clowns, it's time for dinner," said Sethi-Arh.

Shora chased Darin to the table. Selin carried Robert in her arms, not wanting to let go. Jasmine sat next to the head of the table. Next to her was Shora and Darin. Across from them, Selin, Robert and Fiara sat.

Fiara was another member of "Demon's Law". She was a lovely ice phoenix and the only single person in the whole house. She tried to find love once but that turned out terrible. No one wanted her for who she was, only her money.

Sethi-Arh set some hot pads on the table and set some serving plates down. Smoked steak and butter noodles were the meal of the evening. Those around the succulent food dug into the dishes and served themselves. Darin cut into the steak and put a small piece into his mouth. He chewed it and savored the flavor.

"What kind of wood did you smoke this over?" Darin asked.

"It's a secret." Sethi-Arh replied. "So how was work?"

"Well, the wrecks that resulted from the war were finally charted and evaluated. We just finished up with the USS Sharnhorse," Darin replied. "Also I have to ask you something."

"What would that be?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Would you be interested in going to Alaska with us to work for AUPA?" Darin asked.

"What is AUPA?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Alaska Underwater Preserve Agency. It's FUPA's northern branch." Darin replied.

"What kind of work is involved?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Inspecting wrecks and their condition, basically conservation." Darin replied.

"I'll go with you. However, on one condition," Sethi-Arh said.

"What's that?" Darin asked.

"We bring the other half of the family with us." Sethi-Arh replied.

"That's a tall order, but I think we can accommodate everyone." Darin said.

"Thanks. Now I hope you can tell me when we are to head for Alaska," said Sethi-Arh.

"Keep an ear open during the next few weeks. I am supposed get word of a date at some point." Darin replied.

They all finished their meal and left the cleaning to Sethi-Arh and Jasmine. Darin went to the computer room and began to search for homes for sale in Anchorage on the internet. He was searching for three-story homes with at least five bedrooms and a nice view of the ocean. He soon found that one house he was looking for. It was a nice, three-story seven-bedroom house. In addition, it had a pool. The asking price was $2,000,000, well within his price range. He got on the phone and talked to the realtor. After a brief talk, he bought the house. Darin sighed after dodging a bullet that would have cost him the chance of having Sethi-Arh along for the ride.

At that moment, Shora came into the room and sat next to Darin. Her sudden appearance caused him to jump. Shora laughed when she scared him.

"What are you looking for," she asked.

"Just trying to find us a home for us to come to when we leave for Alaska." Darin replied.

Shora draped her arms around his neck and pressed her head against his. She sighed with content as she felt his warmth against her skin. Darin shivered a little from her touch. Shora giggled and looked at him.

"Is my baby cold," she asked.

"I don't know, what do you think?" Darin said.

"I think my baby should be coming to bed now. It's almost eleven." Shora replied.

Darin looked up at the clock and noticed that it was 10:57 PM. He closed out of the internet and shut down the computer. He and Shora then went up stairs and went to bed.

The next morning, Darin and Robert were up early. Their day was going to be a busy one. First, they were going to check in to see if FUPA had a date for when they were to leave for Alaska. Then they had to bring everyone down to the office to check them into the company so that FUPA could tell AUPA who was coming.

Darin and Robert were eating breakfast when the phone rang. Darin got up from the table and answered it.

"Hello,"

"Darin this is Tom; I have that date for you. You, Robert and your other member are to leave for Alaska today."

"Okay, thanks Tom."

"One more thing Darin, you have to bring in your other member to the office."

"Okay Tom, I will."

Darin hung up the phone and sat back down. He finished his breakfast and went outside for some air.

The sun was just coming up over the horizon. The water was calm as the wind blew across it. Darin sat in a lawn chair as he looked out over the bay, watching as some dolphins jumped in the water. He closed his eyes as he though about the time when he and Robert were depending on them and the cousin the orca to survive. Darin was so deep in his thoughts that he did not notice Sethi-Arh come out onto the deck.

Sethi-Arh woke up early that morning when he heard the muffled ring to the phone. He looked at the clock on the nightstand in the bedroom and saw that it was 5:55 AM. He cursed under his breath for whoever was calling at this early hour. He felt a warm body lying next to him. He recognized it to be his wife Jasmine. He kissed her head and gently stroked her back before climbing out of bed. He silently walked out of the room, closing the bedroom door quietly. He stepped out into the dim great room, his feet mashing into the cool carpeting. He heard the sound of cereal being poured coming from the kitchen. He went to investigate and found Robert sitting at the table eating a bowl of Frosted Flakes.

"Well, nice to see you up early," said Sethi-Arh.

"I have never had to wake up this early since high school." Robert replied.

"Say where is Darin?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Oh, he's out on the deck getting some air," Robert replied.

Sethi-Arh left the kitchen and went out onto the deck. He walked out into the cool morning air and sat on the railing of the deck. He looked out onto the bay and sighed as he thought about the fun times he and Darin had shared. He looked to his right and saw Darin sitting in one of the lawn chairs with his eyes closed. Sethi-Arh smiled and went over to sit in the chair next to him. He relaxed his dorsal fin so it lay flat against his back. He slipped his tail through the hole in the back and then leaned back. He set a hand on Darin's and closed his eyes.

Darin was brought out of his trance when something was place on top of his right hand. He opened his eyes and looked to see. There on top of his was a black hand. He followed it to see that it was Sethi-Arh's. He looked into the orca's face to see a smile. Sethi-Arh turned his head to look Darin in the eye.

"Good morning," he said.

"Good morning." Darin replied.

"What are you doing out here?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Oh just thinking." Darin replied.

"Thinking about what?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Just thinking about how I'm going to fit every one into my truck and drive you guys seven miles to FUPA for registration." Darin replied.

"Registration for what?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"AUPA wants to know who is coming, so you and everyone else has to register." Darin replied.

"I see. So what time are we going?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"When everyone else wakes up," Darin replied.

They sat there talking when Robert joined them. Darin began to tell about the house he had just bought in Anchorage. He told them the house was on Sonstorm Drive, less than a mile from Earthquake Park and on the shore of the Kink Arm of the Cook Inlet.

Shora woke up around 9:10 AM that morning. She stretched out and climbed out of bed. She grabbed her robe and put it on before heading out of the bedroom to go downstairs. She walked into the great room and heard voices coming from the deck outside. She walked over to the door wall to the deck and saw Robert, Darin, and Sethi-Arh sitting in chairs and talking.

"Mind if I join you boys," she asked.

"Have a seat," Sethi-Arh said.

Shora sat in one of the empty chairs and looked at the boys. There was a moment of silence until Shora spoke.

"What are we doing today?"

"Well, we are all going to go to FUPA and register to fly to Alaska where Darin and Robert have been asked to work," Sethi-Arh replied.

"I'm game for a road trip." Shora said.

"We can't leave until everyone is up," Darin said.

"So where is our new home?" Shora asked.

"It's on Sonstorm Drive less than a mile from Earthquake Park on the shore of the Kink Arm of the Cook Inlet." Darin replied.

"Sounds like a nice place. How much did it cost?' she asked.

"It cost a pretty penny. What matters is that it belongs to us now." Darin replied.

It was about 10:10 AM when Fiara and Selin woke up. Sethi-Arh began to make breakfast as everyone else sat down at the table. Darin told Fiara and Selin the activities of the day. The girls were ecstatic about going to Alaska.

After breakfast, they all climbed into Darin's truck and were off. They drove onto East Sunset Drive then turned right onto Southwest 37th Avenue and headed north. Traffic was moderate as they got onto US-1 South Dixie Highway. It was 10:35 AM when they pulled into the driveway of the FUPA headquarters. Darin parked the truck in the staff parking lot and the gang climbed out. Darin and Robert led the group to the lobby where Tom was waiting.

"Hello Tom," Darin said.

"You made it, great. Now who is your third member?"

"Right here." Darin said.

Tom looked up at Sethi-Arh and his jaw dropped. Sethi-Arh towered over him. His sculpted body spoke volumes of his level of fitness. Tom tired to say something but all that came out was air. He walked around the beast, taking in every detail as he went.

"Where in the world did he come from?" Tom asked.

"Tom, we came here to register for Alaska, not gawk at a male orca." Darin said.

"Right," Tom said.

He looked past Sethi-Arh to the group of female standing behind them.

"How many are actually going on this?" Tom asked.

"In total, about six," Darin replied.

"I see. Okay, I guess we'll have to order some more tickets." Tom said.

Tom led the group up to the second floor and into an office where Tom gave Darin a clipboard. He signed his name on a line next to an "X" and handed it to Robert who signed his name before passing it to Sethi-Arh. The clipboard was passed down to the last person and then was returned to Tom.

"So when do we leave?" Darin asked.

"As soon as you can pack your bags," Tom replied. "The plane is waiting at Miami International."

Tom handed Darin the tickets and smiled.

"Thanks Tom," said Darin.

"My pleasure, anything else?"

"Yes, please contact AUD and have them send my truck and the "Demon's Law" tour bus to my residence in Alaska." Darin said.

"I'll do that." Tom replied.

Darin led the group back to the truck and drove back to the house. Everyone rushed inside and grabbed their luggage. Darin packed his bag carefully, making sure not to miss anything. Shora simply dumped her drawers into her bag and sorted through the pile, folding every piece of clothing.

Meanwhile, Robert was packing his things the same way Darin was. Selin was following Shora's approach. Fiara finished her packing and sat in the great room to wait. She leaned her head back as she thought what it would be like in Alaska. Her train of though was broken by the sound of feet coming down the stairs, signaling that Darin, Shora, Robert and Selin had finished packing. Minutes later, Sethi-Arh and Jasmine came out. After everyone checked their luggage and ensured they were ready for the trip, they piled their luggage into the truck again and climbed in.

They followed the same route they took to get to FUPA, taking Southwest 37th Avenue north. However, that is where the similarities ended. Instead of getting onto US-1, they got onto US-41 and drove west for about four and a half miles then turned right onto SR-953 and traveled north for about five miles. They then took the ramp onto Northwest 21st Street and followed that for seven miles. They arrived at the airport at about 11:14 AM. Darin parked the truck in the garage and helped off load the luggage. He then called a shuttle to take the group to the terminal where they were to meet a FUPA jet pilot.

The shuttle dropped them off at the entrance to the terminal. The group gathered their luggage and checked them into security. Darin gave the clerk the tickets. The clerk called on his radio and a man in a pilot's uniform came out of the terminal and walked over to them.

"Hi, I'm Dave and I'll be your pilot," the man said.

"Hi, I'm Darin. This is Robert, Sethi-Arh, Selin, Fiara, Shora, and Jasmine."

Darin shook Dave's hand. Dave then led the group into the terminal and over to a door with a sign that read, authorized personnel only. They walked through it and down a set of stairs to the tarmac. They exited the stairway through a door out onto the tarmac.

In front of them three airport security SUVs were waiting for them. They climbed into them and rode to the other end of the airport. They stopped in front of a hangar where a private jet was parked. The group climbed out of the SUVs and boarded the jet. They sat in their seats and buckled up. Darin sat in the first row next to the window on the left side of the plane. Shora sat to his right. Across the isle, Sethi-Arh and Jasmine sat. Jasmine occupied the window seat. Behind them in the second row were Robert and Selin. Robert was in the isle seat while Selin had the window. Across from them, sitting all alone was Fiara. She was by the window looking to the outside. Once their luggage was loaded and secured, the plane taxied to the runway. The plane made several turns then came to a stop as the Dave requested clearance to take off.

"This is AUPA flight 150 calling Anchorage tower. We are on runway C4 and request permission for take off."

"Permission withheld, 777 traffic coming in on runway C5."

"Roger that, we will wait."

Dave looked out the window to see a black dot in the distance. He watched as the dot grew bigger and bigger then the plane came into focus as it touched down. There was some chatter over the radio between the airliner and the control tower.

"AUPA flight 150 you are cleared for take off on runway C4."

"Roger that, taking off on runway C4."

Dave worked the throttle to move the small jet to the take off strip. He did a quick check of the controls before he pushed the throttle to full. The plane jerked forward and rattled as it gained speed. Then the plane lifted up into the air and began to climb. The wheels were retracted and Dave set the plane's course for Anchorage Alaska.

The flight lasted for ten hours. During the flight, the group took turns sitting next to Fiara to make her not feel left out. It was until the sand man paid them a visit, putting the gang to sleep.

Jasmine was sitting next to Fiara reading a magazine when she felt something furry against her skin. She looked to find Fiara had fallen asleep on her shoulder. Jasmine chuckled and stroked the ice phoenix's cheek before falling asleep too.

Shora had been looking at Darin for the first few hours of the flight. She admired his character, reclusive but alert with a machine like mind that produced clever ideas and ingenious plans. She loved it all and was proud to call him her own.

Selin was doing the same to Robert. She loved his witty attitude and bluntness. She loved his determination and humor. What Selin loved most was his devotion to protect those he cared for. During the second Vlatorran war, Robert saved Darin three times and he did it without breaking a sweat.

Selin watched as Robert's eyes began to close despite his best efforts to remain awake. She smiled and held him in her arms. She kissed him as he drifted into a peaceful sleep.

Darin changed his watch to Pacific Time before the plane began its descent. He looked out the window at the land below. They flew past Mount McKinley, its peek surrounded by a flat layer of clouds. The plane continued its descent, cutting through the clouds.

Darin tightened his seat belt as the plane began its approach. He remembered the last time he and Robert had flown to Anchorage and was still scared from those events. He then felt Shora's hand clutching his in a reassuring way. Darin laughed at himself; he should have known that Shora would find out about his terror after his near death landing.

Shora whispered into his ear, "Everything's going to be alright." She then kissed him softly and smiled.

The plane touched down safely at Anchorage International Airport. No problems came up as the plane slowed to a stop before it taxied to a hangar on the far side of the airfield. When the plane came to a stop, the cabin was filled with the sound of seatbelts being unbuckled. Darin thanked Dave for flying them safely before he opened the cabin door and climbing down the stairs to the tarmac. The rest of the gang followed and went to retrieve their luggage. The airport security sent over three SUVs to take them to the car rental where Darin rented a fifteen passenger van.

They loaded their luggage into the van and piled in. Darin then drove as if he were on autopilot. He turned onto West International Airport Road then turned left onto Satellite Drive. They then turned right onto Postmark Drive then turned left onto Aircraft Drive. They then turned right onto West Northern Lights Boulevard, then left onto Telequana Drive, then right onto Clay Products Drive, then turned left onto Marston Drive, then finally left onto Sonstorm Drive. Everyone sighed as Darin drove into the driveway.

After Darin put the van in park, they all got out and unloaded their luggage. Darin brought out the keys and opened the front door. They all went inside to explore the house. Darin had suggested that they keep the same room arrangement from Florida. Everyone agreed and went to claim their rooms.

Once everyone settled in, they collapsed onto their beds and fell asleep. The whole house was in deep slumber in less than thirty seconds. Darin fell on top of Shora, stretched across her chest. Robert slept at Selin's side. Sethi-Arh and Jasmine slept in each other's arms.

The next morning, Darin woke up early. He climbed out of bed and went downstairs. He went into the computer room to check his email. He typed in his user name and password into the log on to access the page. Darin had only one new message. Darin opened the message and read it.

"Hi Darin, it's Tom, I'm writing to you to inform you that you will be going to the AUPA headquarters. It is located on Ocean Dock Drive. Open the attachment and print out the directions."

Darin opened the attachment and printed out the directions. He then opened Microsoft Streets and Tips and zoomed in on their house's location. He then opened the route planner and typed in their address. He then entered the location of the AUPA headquarters and clicked "get directions". He then printed out the map and set it aside. Darin stood up out of the chair and glanced at the clock, it was 5:54 AM.

Meanwhile, Sethi-Arh woke up. He looked to find Jasmine nuzzled next to him. He slowly pulled away from her and climbed out of bed. Walked over to the dresser and pulled out a pair of blue jeans and a white t-shirt. He then went out of the room and into the great room. He admired how quiet the house was in the morning. He went out onto the deck that over looked the Kink Arm, the cool air washed over his skin as he opened the door. Sethi-Arh looked out over the water as the sun rose and cast a ray of light on the waves causing the water to turn into gems of sparkling water.

Sethi-Arh returned to the inside of the house to see Darin emerging from the computer room.

"Good morning." Sethi-Arh said.

"Good morning." Darin replied.

"What have you been doing?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"Find the location of AUPA's headquarters." Darin replied.

"So I take it that we are going to AUPA to see the director?" said Sethi-Arh.

"Right."

"So when do we leave?" Sethi-Arh asked.

"As soon as Robert wakes up." Darin replied.

"Since I'm awake we can go now."

Darin turned to find Robert standing behind him.

"Oh so you are awake," Darin said.

"Let's go before the others know we have left," said Robert.

They quietly went into the garage and climbed into the truck. Darin opened the door and started the engine. He backed out and drove down their street and turned right onto Marston Drive, then left onto Clay Products Drive. They then turned right onto McKenzie, then left onto West Northern Lights Boulevard, and then left onto Minnesota Drive, then right onto Minnesota Byp. The street name then changed to I Street. Then they turned right onto West 6th Avenue, and then left onto A Street heading north. They then got onto Port Access Road and followed that to Ocean Dock Drive.

They pulled into the driveway at AUPA around 6:18 AM. Darin parked in the visitor parking lot. They climbed out of the truck and went inside the main office building. The lobby was huge; at least six stories could be seen from the lobby floor. There was a staircase leading up to the second floor to the left of the lobby. A welcome deck was in the middle of the lobby. They walked up to it and were greeted by two female employees.

"Hello and welcome to AUPA, how may we help you?"

"We're from FUPA, we were wondering where might find the director?" Darin asked.

"Fifth floor room 510, he is currently in a meeting so you're going to have to wait," the young blond said.

"Thanks," said Darin.

They strolled around the lobby as they waited. Sethi-Arh was attracting looks from visitors and employees. The two from the welcome desk were focused on him as he walked around. They admired his buff chest and body. The way he moved hypnotized them.

A mother was sitting on a bench with her seven-year-old child waiting for her husband to come to take them out to breakfast. When she turned her attention to her purse, her son decides to run around. He jumps up and runs across the lobby. However, his time of freedom ended when he collided with Sethi-Arh.

Sethi-Arh was admiring the construction of the office building when he felt something slam into his left leg. He looked down to see a young boy who had run into him. He had fallen backwards and hit his head on the floor. He began to cry and clutch his head in pain. Sethi-Arh bent down and picked the boy up in his arms. He spoke softly to him in his discomfort.

"What's wrong, did you hit your head?"

The boy only nodded, tears streaming down his face.

"Ahh, there, there. You're okay."

The boy's crying stopped and Sethi-Arh set him back down. His mother came running over to retrieve him.

"I'm so sorry; he just got away from me,"

"No need to apologize, I don't think he'll try to run without looking anymore," Sethi-Arh said.

"Where are you from?" the woman asked.

"Originally Michigan, I'm with two others." Sethi-Arh replied.

"So what are you doing in our fine city?"

"We're starting our job here. I'm not sure what we'll be going but I am certain that I'm the right guy for the job." Sethi-Arh replied.

"Well when you're shift ends, give me a call," the woman said.

"If you're trying to get me to go out on a date I have news for you. I'm already married and so are you," Sethi-Arh said, pointing at the woman's wedding ring.

"Oh, ohhhh would you look at that. How did that get there?" she said, desperately playing dumb.

"I'm not buying it."

"Sethi-Arh, come on the director is free now," Darin said.

The woman looked at him, then at Sethi-Arh.

"Are you gay," she asked.

"No, I'm his guardian angel," he replied.

Sethi-Arh left the woman and followed Darin and Robert up the stairs to the fifth floor. They quickly found the director's office and knocked on the door.

"Come in," came a voice.

Darin opened the door and walked in, followed by Robert and Sethi-Arh.

The office was a good size. It had a large window the over looked the company docks below. A dark oak deck sat in the middle of the room. The floor was cover with navy blue carpeting. Behind the desk was a tall bookcase loaded with books from end to end on each of the twelve shelves. At the desk sat man in a dark blue uniform. He had dark brown hair and black skin. The man was filling out papers when Darin knocked. He stood up and greeted them.

"Hi I'm Joe Elwood, AUPA director. You must be the crew from FUPA; I heard many good things about you. Please have a seat."

"Like what?" Darin asked.

"That you are hard working and that you were the best they had." Joe replied.

"Oh, I see," said Darin.

Joe looked at the three figures that were standing in his office. He glanced over Darin and Robert then froze when he saw Sethi-Arh.

"Who is the big guy?" Joe asked.

"Oh this is Sethi-Arh; he is the third member of our team." Darin replied.

"Great. Getting to the point, you are here for your documentation, am I right?" Joe asked.

"Yes," said Darin.

"We were wondering when we begin our tour of duty." Robert asked.

"You guys are scheduled to start work next week," Joe replied. "But first I need you three to fill out these forums first. You can give them to my secretary when you're done or you can fax them, the number is on the last page."

"Thanks," Darin said.

"Sure thing," said Joe.

Darin, Robert, and Sethi-Arh left the office and headed back down to the lobby. They left the office building and back over to the truck. Darin started the engine and drove out of the parking lot for home. Along the way, they talked about what they would like to do until they started work.

"I would like to take a kayak trip on the Cook Inlet," said Sethi-Arh.

"That sounds like a good idea, I'm always up for a new challenge," said Robert.

"I've always wanted to sail among orcas," Darin said.

"Ah, not to put a hole in your dream, but you already did." Robert said.

"That was when it was life and death. I wanted it to be a friendly meeting, not a rescue party." Darin replied.

"Oh, I stand corrected." Robert said.

"That you do, that you do," said Darin.

Robert slowed his movements and clenched his fist.

"When we get back to the house, I'll give you a three second head start."

"For what?" Darin asked.

"Three seconds," Robert replied.

"Okay, three seconds." said Darin.

Sethi-Arh listened to the conversation from the back seat. He noticed Robert tighten his fists. The situation was becoming slightly hostile. He tapped Robert on the shoulder to get his attention.

"I would retract that statement if I were you," he said.

Robert's eyes widened, he had forgotten that Sethi-Arh was in the car with them.

"But, I'm cute and fluffy," Robert said.

"Oh no, here we go with the cute and fluffy again," said Darin.

They pulled up into the driveway around 8:34 AM. When they entered the house, the females of the house greeted them. Shora and Selin pounced on Darin and Robert. Sethi-Arh received a warm embrace from Jasmine.

After the greetings were through, planning for the remainder of the week. It was decided that today they would all go kayaking in the Cook Inlet. The next day they would go to Denali National Park. On Thursday, they would check out some of the shops in town. Friday was still undecided.

"The kayaking sounds good," said Shora. "Except for one problem, we don't have any."

"Well then I guess we'll be going to the athletic store in town," said Darin.

"Let's go then," said Shora.

They all piled into the truck and went into town. It was not a very long drive, athletic stores were everywhere in downtown Anchorage. They parked in front of Mike's Alaskan Sports Gear and went inside.

The store was huge, had to be the same size of the expo center in Novi. There were hiking boots, back packs, weather jackets, camping materials, and kayaks.

Darin looked at the small boats on the racks, each different from the last. Ones with rudders, some with long pointed ends, and some looked like they had been cut at the ends. There were so many choices it was hard to decide. A store employee was near by and Darin called him over.

"How may I help you?"

"Could you tell me which one of these kayaks would be best to use on the Cook Inlet?" Darin asked.

"The Cook Inlet you say. Okay, those up on the top racks,"

Darin looked up at the top racks and saw kayaks that looked more like canoes.

"Those are more stable in rough water. They are longer than those meant for going down rapids and are safe around the local whales that come to the Cook Inlet. They also come with paddle. The kayaks themselves have special features built into them such as forward headlights."

"How much?" Darin asked.

"$100 each," the man replied.

"Sounds reasonable; we'll take six," Darin said.

"Will that be cash or charge?"

"Do you take Discover?" Darin asked.

"We sure do," the man replied. "Follow me and we'll ring you up."

Darin followed the man to the front of the store toward a deck. The man push some button on the register and asked Darin for the card. He handed the man the card, who wiped it through a scanner, then pushed some more buttons and the register's printer started going. A piece of paper came up from the printer then stopped. The man then tore the paper away and gave it to Darin along with a pen.

"I need you sign this."

Darin took the pen and paper and wrote his signature then gave both back to their originator.

"Thank you for your business. Would you like us to ship the kayaks to your residence?"

"That would be helpful," Darin said.

"Okay, would you then fill out this form please?"

Darin took the form and wrote out the address of the house. The man took back the form when Darin had finished filling it out.

"Okay, your kayaks will arrive in about an hour at your residence. Thank you and have a nice day,"

Darin rounded up the group and told them it was time to go home. They all climbed into the truck and drove off. When they arrived at the house, a delivery truck was parked out front. Darin figured that their kayaks had arrived. He pulled into the driveway and parked. He then opened the garage and went over to the delivery truck to check to see if it was the kayaks.

"I believe you have something for me," Darin said a man in the truck's cab.

"That we do, you want them in the garage?" the man asked.

"Yes that would be good." Darin replied.

The man and two others climbed out of the cab and opened the back of the truck. They carefully brought out the six kayaks and set them down in the garage. Darin thanked them before they drove off. He went into the garage and counted the kayaks to ensure they were all there. Once the count checked out, he then went inside the house to find everyone in their swim trunks; Shora, Jasmine, and Selin wore bikinis. Sethi-Arh wore a black Olympic swimsuit and Robert had on a wetsuit.

"Come on Darin, get ready and let's go," said Sethi-Arh.

"Okay I'll be ready in a minute," Darin replied.

He ran upstairs into the bedroom and over to the dresser. He opened a drawer and pulled out his swim trunks. He stripped down and put them on. He then pulled out a wetsuit and put that on. He then ran out of the room and downstairs. Then they all went out into the garage and grabbed a kayak. They then went to the back of the house and climbed down the stairs to the dock below where they put their kayaks into the water. They were about to climb into the kayaks when Sethi-Arh stopped them.

"Before we begin, I would like everyone to take a map and a compass."

He went around and gave everyone theses things then climbed into his kayak and paddled away. The rest of the group followed his lead, digging their paddles into the water. Darin and Robert were following behind everyone, looking around at their surroundings.

It was a clear day; the sunlight bouncing off the calm water. All was quiet as they paddled out toward the middle of the inlet. They were four hundred-twenty four yards out when they split up in different directions. Sethi-Arh and Jasmine continued to head toward the middle, Robert and Selin turned northeast, Darin and Shora turned southwest.

Robert and Selin paddled side by side, looking around at the scenery. They were enjoying the experience of Alaska. The kayaks sliced through the water, causing it to curl as they paddled through almost effortlessly. It was not long until they saw a pod of orcas in the distance, shooting water vapor as they surfaced to breathe then dive back under in a smooth and elegant motion. Robert wondered if Keiko was there and paddled over to check. He paddled closer to them, being careful not to scare them. When he was able to hear them breaking the surface to breathe, he began to shout out.

"Keiko, Keiko are you there?"

Robert got no response and he turned away.

Meanwhile, Sethi-Arh and Jasmine were resting in the middle of the inlet when there came a sound of air being exhaled through a blowhole. Sethi-Arh looked to see an orca pass under them. He looked around and saw more orcas coming their way at a fast pace. He wondered why they were in such a hurry. He and Shora followed them, unsure of where they would lead them.

Meanwhile, Darin and Shora were paddling along at a comfortable pace a few feet from Darin. She looked at him and smiled. It was at that point she noticed a male orca approaching them. She watched as he came closer and closer. Then she felt some water splash against her skin. She looked to see another orca dive under her kayak and then surface between her and Darin. The orca then bumped against Darin's kayak which pushed it sideways.

Darin felt the push and watched as the orca dove under him. Then suddenly, there was a tremendous thud as the orca's tail stuck the bottom of the kayak and sent it into the air. The kayak flipped in the air, spilling Darin out and into the water. The kayak landed a few feet from him.

Shora paddled over to check if Darin was okay. She laughed when Darin was trying to climb back into the kayak when the same orca bumped it again causing Darin to fall out again. The orca then swam behind Darin and nudged him. He turned around and laughed. Shora was confused and paddled over.

"What is so funny?" she asked.

"Oh, you never met Keiko have you," Darin said.

"No I don't believe I have," Shora replied.

"Well now you have," Keiko said.

Shora did a double take; she could not believe what she heard. The orca spoke.

"Did you just say something?" She asked.

"Yes I did, and believe me my dear, I am very much real," Keiko replied.

"I must be..."

"You are not dreaming," Keiko said.

At that moment, Sethi-Arh and Jasmine arrived.

"Hay Darin is everything alright? I saw you go flying," Sethi-Arh said.

Sethi-Arh looked at Shora and saw an expression of surprise and wonder.

"I see she has met Keiko," he said.

"How could you tell?" Darin asked.

"Lucky guess," Sethi-Arh replied.

"So what are you doing back here? Is it already fishing season?" Keiko asked.

"No, we're here on a different job. We are working for AUPA," Darin replied.

"I see, so I guess you'll need my added protection then?" said Keiko.

"Yes, that would be helpful," said Darin.

"Okay then, I'll see you later," said Keiko.

He dove under and disappeared. The kayakers then decided to turn in and stop for the day. They went in search for Selin and Robert. Aided by Keiko, who happened to be swimming in the same direction, they quickly found them and headed back to the house. They arrived at the dock where they pulled the kayaks out of the water and onto the dock. They climbed up the stairs to the house and went inside to wash up before dinner.

Darin and Shora went into their bedroom. Shora took her shower first, which forced Darin to wait. He sat on the bed, listening to the water as it pelted against the tile in the shower. Shora was humming a song that Darin had never heard of. The notes had an eerie sound that sent shivers down his spine.

Shora came out shortly. She emerged wearing her light blue bathrobe. Darin got up from the bed and went into bathroom. Steam from Shora's shower still hung in the air as he entered. He striped down and got into the shower. He quickly washed himself clean and was about to shut off the water when he began to feel light headed. Darin had brief black out spells in the past but nothing like this.

His head felt like it had taken a blow from the front. His vision began to blacken and he was quickly losing balance. He braced himself on the wall until his knees gave way and he fell to the floor with a sickening thud.

Shora was in the bedroom, putting on her nightgown. She heard Darin turn the water on to start his shower. She watched the clock and predicted that his shower would conclude in five minutes. However, as she watched and listened, five minutes turned into seven minutes, then ten minutes. By now, she was worried. Then fifteen minutes later, there was a sickening thud from the bathroom. Shora sprang into the bathroom. She opened the shower door and found Darin lying motionless on the floor. Shora reached her hand under the water to check the temperature and found it to be normal. She then shut the water off and picked Darin up and took him out of the bathroom. She laid him on the bed and ran out of the room.

"SETHI-ARH COME QUICK, DARIN COLLAPSED IN THE SHOWER!"

(Chapter 1 tune 1)

Darin began to wake up. He felt his head pounding with pain from the fall. He sat up and placed a hand on his head. He looked around and saw that he was laying down on something. He also noticed that he was in the middle of a circle of light. He looked up to find the source of the light but all he saw was darkness. He looked around and saw nothing but darkness. He stood up and tried to figure out where he was when he heard something. He quickly looked around, searching for the source. Then it came again, closer this time. Darin was quickly growing scared.

"Hello," he said in a quiet voice.

Suddenly, there was a rumbling sound mixed with the sloshing of water. He turned to face the sound and saw a wall of water coming towards him. He tried to run, but his feet would not move. He tried to kneel but his knees were frozen. The wall struck him but surprisingly, it did not knock him over. Even more surprising, he could breath. He looked around into the deep blue and heard the sound of something swimming close by.

"Hello," he called again.

"Hello my son," said a voice.

Darin looked around and saw Keiko swimming around him.

"What's going on?" Darin asked.

"It's judgment day, are you ready?" Keiko asked.

"I don't know," Darin replied.

"We'll find out shortly," Keiko said.

"Where is Shora?" Darin asked.

"She is in the physical world where she belongs," Keiko replied.

"No! I can't be dead. NO! I'm not ready!" Darin said in a panic.

"That's the answer we've been looking for," Keiko said.

"Answer? What answer?" Darin asked.

"Go back, my son. It is not yet your time,"

Darin's eyes flew open. He quickly sat up, his heart beating a mile a minute and his breathing just as fast. He quickly slowed his breathing and looked around. The air smelled sterile. He looked at his left arm and found that he was connected to an I.V. It was then he realized where he was, in the hospital. He lay back in the bed, thinking about what he had just seen a few moments ago. He heard voices coming from outside the room. Then the door opened, letting in a flood of light. Shora stood in the doorway and was about to walk in when a doctor stopped her.

"I'm sorry Shora, but you'll have to come by tomorrow to see him. We are not finished stabilizing him."

Shora turned and left as the doctor closed the door. Darin closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep. He had another dream. It was a repeat of the one before only this time it was longer.