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(Collin's view)

I hear something....its pulsing...my chest feels tight. I feel this heat in the back of neck. My right hand clenches tight onto something weirdly shaped. My vision is blurred at first before I see...stairs...o-oh god no...don't make me relive this again!

That moment...that awful day. It was the day when my world was forever changed. I never saw the good in anything anymore. My childhood was torn away from me...I wished I was one of the lucky victims who could bury it...but I'm not.

I was only eight. I was wearing my superhero shirt, jeans, and socks while keeping my favorite GI Joe figure SWAT team hero next to me as I went down the stairs hearing my mother calling me.

"P-Please he's just a child. Don't do this." I hear her softly whimpering to another person before I hear her yelp followed by soft sobs.

"C-Collin come down here!" She said loudly as it felt like a...hole in my heart was slowly forming. She wasn't usually that demanding unless I had done something wrong but I can't remember anything bad I did in the last few months.

Step by step the creaks of the wooden stairs covered in white carpet sound throughout the place I once called home. My skin felt on fire as I heard someone else with my mom...was it Dad?

Finally after what seemed like an eternity I reached the ground floor but had to walk into the living room where the sounds were coming from. The walls were white, the carpet was white, my house was neatly decorated with flowers, vases, and pictures of our memories with each other. Mother always made sure to clean the house properly and would yell if I messed it up...But what happened that day...We will never be able to clean it. It will never wash out of my memory.

I walk into the living room and stand by the doorway looking into the last time I ever saw that room. I had happy times in this place, watching movies with my parents, playing with my toys, trying to help mom clean up for Dad...but what I saw...I dropped my SWAT GI Joe figure at first sight.

I saw my mother being held by the neck from a strong looking man's arm. His arm was pulsing from tension from holding my mother in place and my mother looked trapped. She had her hands on his arms and it appears she clawed him for awhile but it looked like it did little good...

The man holding my mother was tanned...he was Mexican. I could see the baggy jeans he wore that were torn, some on purpose others looked from bad experiences. His wore a white tank top shirt and on those arms holding my mother were tattoos, tattoos of skulls, grim reapers, and fire. There was a bandana on his head and I saw his face...a stubble beard and mustache growing but what I really noticed...was red on his face. It looked like blood but I couldn't see any cuts on the man.

I didn't know what to think before I saw what was in the left hand of the man...a gun...pressed right against my mothers head. That image...that image of my mother being threatened by chaotic evil...It was like even then I knew my life would forever change.

The man with the gun was breathing heavily before he smiled at me... he smiled at me with a crooked grin showing his yellow teeth before chuckling to himself.

"Hey there little boy...do you know who I am?" He asked me as my mother looked at me with tears in her eyes and whimpered to the man.

"P-Please...don't hurt my son...don't take him from me." She begged but the man held her even tighter.

"Shut the fuck up bitch!" He yelled at her and-and I couldn't move...I didn't know this man but I knew he was going to hurt me and my mother. I couldn't feel anything at that moment. I can't even feel my heart beating. I knew if I tried to run for help my mother could be killed and he might come after me.

The man was dressed as if he came from a bad neighborhood and look like he was on the run from something...but why this house? Why wouldn't he just keep running? Did he want my mother's car? I would get the keys for him if he promised to let my mother go...

...If only I knew what the man had intended to do....

Suddenly I heard noises outside...sirens, many of them. I've seen them before because Dad was picked up by them before. I knew Dad wasn't home but I prayed that he would save me and Mom. The colors of red and blue coming into the living room through the window. The curtains were closed but there was a little space open for the colors to come through.

I first hoped that the man would be frightened by the sight of police cars coming for him but...he smiled again as if he were the one who had the advantage. I even heard him mutter something utterly evil under his breath.

"That's right you fuckers...I want everyone of you to see me kill this bitch and the little shit."

He went over to the curtains and hid behind my mother but kept the right against her forehead for the police to see. He pulled open the curtains and started laughing.

"HAHA! Funny now assholes?! How's it like to have your family threatened huh you douchebag!!" He screamed before firing 2 shots at the police and my mother screamed. The window shattered as he hid right behind my mother again as a human shield. I heard people barking orders and demanding the immediate surrender of the man but he only laughed in that horrible voice.

"HAHAHAHA!!! You're going to get what you deserve Gunderson!!!" He screamed as...again everything going white. Please wake up! Wake up! Wake up! WAKE UP! I was screaming in my mind before hearing.

"Collin!....Don't!" Another gunshot.

In an immediate reaction I woke up only to be greeting with a sudden smack to my face. I let out a silent scream as my nose felt broken. I could feel a bit of dirt enter my nostrils. I rolled on my back as I touched my nose. I felt like a sledgehammer hit my forehead as my eyes protested to open.

After lying there for a few moments moaning out in pain I opened my eyes. I saw a bunch of wooden poles coming together at a center hole. Surrounding the hole was this whitish, tannish material...wait...

I sat up and looked around. T...This is a tepee. Everything rushed back into my head as I remembered what...what I thought was a horrible dream. The plane crash, the androids...those walking, talking animals. I-Is it true or was I only seeing things.

I stood up to see the tepee was empty except for my bed which I fell out of because of my dream. I jolted remembering something that might have threatened my life while I was sleeping. My UMP!

I looked around but it wasn't here...Where did I lose it? I had it when I gave the dog his spear but then...wait...did Alex take it off of me while I passed out for a moment on the wheat fields? I can't remember having it when I was talking with the lion chief or first falling asleep...I guess maybe it was a good thing that Alex took it. Falling asleep with a gun on your back spells disaster to me. I could have woken up with a bullet to my leg...or worse.

I listened around for a moment thinking about all the worst possibilities about yesterday. W-What if those animals were just waiting for us to sleep as they took us one by one. Or what if they are androids in disguise! Still wouldn't it have been better to disguise themselves as humans rather than those animals? Maybe I was just overthinking this-panicking about nothing.

I heard birds chirping. I could hear them flying around my tepee singing beautiful little wake up calls...now that I look at it I can see where the sun is beyond this tepee...it looks like its right in the middle of the sky. How long was I sleeping for? Ugh then again I needed a nights rest after what happened. The memory of the crash...the bodies...I could almost feel this acid feeling in my heart eating me up slowly. I shook it off and knew I had to look outside. Hopefully the others are awake.

As I walked towards the leather flap door I heard something else other than birds...I heard...children? I paused as I was just about to grab the leather and heard the unmistakable sound of kids running around and giggling.

I tugged on the leather door and pushed it open. I half expected to see the agents in a chaotic state of panic or despair...but instead I saw a few of them in a little circle talking among themselves. They kept looking over to the left...when I looked to the left I saw a tribal looking at us...in his hands was a spearing pointing up as if...guarding us...or maybe guarding the villages from us.

I thought from this distance and under these circumstances I would see a stern glare along with the spear being held tightly looking ready to defend itself if we attacked but...I could see the cheetah turning its head at us and it was holding his weapon loosely in on of its hands. It looked intrigued at us not suspicious of a threat.

I could tell the agents were cautious about the guard but then I saw another...and another warrior. Before long I noticed a little circle of those animal warriors around where we were located. At first I was scared that the were simply being herded up like cattle to be eaten but I saw the weapons the agents carrying around this backs...they surrounded us and yet did not disarm us?

I was sure nearly everyone here went to sleep, who could have stayed up after a day like that? The agents looked a bit unease by the circle of guards but the guards looked more like children when they see a new animal to them. They kept their distance but still wanted to see what we were doing. I walked out of the slight safety of the tepee. I saw a few of the animal warriors look at me as if I was going to do something amazing like grow wings and start flying.

Beyond the warriors though I could see people trying to go back to their tribal lives but obviously were distracted like the guards were. The children were running around and giggling like nothing was wrong. They are just too innocent to realize what a situation like this is like. They probably think of us as a guest at a motel or something.

I had no idea what to do. Join the agents in their silent conversation or maybe try to communicate with the animals again. I then noticed a figure coming towards me. Turning to face him I saw that it was Travis and he looked...tired...but something was beyond that. I swallowed wondering if maybe Travis would turn on me before. He told me it wasn't my fault that the plane crashed but maybe now he was going to take out his revenge.

I didn't dare run or beg for mercy, not like I could run anywhere or say anything to defend myself. Travis stopped and looked at me with these obviously sleep deprived eyes.

"Collin..." He said lowly as I nodded once slowly expecting a fist at any moment.

"Travis." I answered back.

"We need to talk. In private." He informed me as if going back to his agent side.

"Okay" Was all I could say as we walked into my tepee. There wasn't anything to be embarrassed of because I only had a bed but I was more worried what was so important that he had to talk to me alone about. Travis sat down on the bed not caring that it was a mess. I sat down next to him and I glanced over every once in awhile wondering what he would do or say.

Travis looked like he wanted to lie down and sleep and I was starting to wonder if he ever did go to sleep last night. Was he by the president's side the whole time last night? That made me wonder, if he was allowed into the village could we pass that circle of warriors?

We only listened to the sounds of the tribe outside the tepee talk and go about their business but I can just tell that they were on edge from out visit. I've never visited a tribe before or anything but they must be frightened of us. Travis let out a loud sigh and was prepared to speak.

"Collin...We're not on Earth are we?" He asked as I looked at him and the fact that he knew made my heart beat loudly...but at the same time I guess it was clear that we weren't.

"How did you know?" I asked back

"Alex told me everything. I-I thought it was just him in shock but...its true isn't it? We went through the portal...and now we are here."

"Yeah...its true."

"And we have no idea how to get back right?" He asked as if he was expecting me to have a time traveler or something! Ugh no I'm just a bit stressed about all this still. I shook my head as I rubbed my forehead to get the sweat off. Only now did I realize the heat of this place. I'm still wearing my suit and it smelled horrible I bet, the adrenaline before and the smoke and ash of the crash...but then again Travis probably smelt the same.

"Jesus...what the hell...what the hell is going on anymore?!" he said going into shock.

"I don't know Travis. I really have no idea what the hell we are going to do." I said back but instead of continuing to be miserable he just resting his face into his hands shaking side to side not wanting to accept this was really happening.

Is there really any sort of plan for something like this happening? Traveling through space, meeting a new species, fighting androids, surviving a crash...I think none of us had any idea what to do.

I was already thinking about what our plan should be....okay...we are in a tribe that is welcoming us and it has protection from the androids. We have next to no supplies except a bunch of weapons and ammo. We have no idea what else is on this planet and we have no idea to go back.

Okay...I think the first thing to do is make peace with the tribe. We are extremely lucky that they didn't decide to attack us, even luckier is that we are inside their walls. The chief appeared kind to our situation but how long would it last? It might only be a few days before they ask us to leave.

Since they appear to hunt androids like us maybe we can kill a few more androids to prove they need us or something. If necessary I think we may need to exchange our guns for their trust. How many of us are there anyway? That crash and the androids...how many of us are left? Swallowing the sinking feeling in my heart knowing I was not going to like the answer I asked Travis.

"Travis...how many of us are there?" But at first he didn't answer. I thought maybe I was asking to much of him before he looked up and wiped away some tears.

"We took a body count when you were still sleeping. There's 87 of us, 14 more injured 5 of them critically...the rest are...are." He didn't finish but I figured...why hide it?

"How many Travis?" I asked trying to numb my body for the blow but I know nothing would make it better.

"There were 162 passengers and flight attendants when we left...61 people are dead Collin." He said as I felt what felt like a part of my mind exploding in guilt. S-Sixty one people...dead because of me. All because of me. On reflex I start to sob internally, I was fighting back my tears but I knew I wouldn't win. Travis looked at me and did something I didn't expect...h-he held his arm around me.

"Collin. Its not your fault. You saved everyone left! We would have been constantly under attack by the androids if you didn't go out into the forest. Carter, the little prick, probably would have started a war with these tribals at first sight rather than talk and-"

"The crash killed most of us! Don't hide it Travis. I might have saved a few...but I killed most of them...Its my fault...its always my fault." I said as a few tears broke through as Travis held me tighter against him.

"Collin...we would have all died if we didn't go into that portal. You saved us, the androids would have killed us all if we didn't do something quick. You've given us a little home and we actually have a chance now to come up with a plan to get home rather than just worry about survival. Listen to me Collin!" He said as I tried to lower my head and blame myself more but Travis didn't let me. He shook me and made me look at him.

"I couldn't have done what you did. I would have panicked! I would have made the situation worse! Me! A sworn agent of the United States would have given up where you showed the courage to do so! Please Collin...don't blame yourself, we are alive because of you and I want you to feel good about what you've done for us so far instead of what you couldn't do." He told me as my throat felt like it was caught up in a knot and I couldn't speak...I-If only those words were from...no....

I nodded and swallowed my tears.

"Okay Travis. I-I'll try to stop blaming myself. But I don't know what else I can do right now." I told him and he nodded at me releasing me from the comforting hold.

"I know. I can't think about what to do either...I've been trying to talk to the other agents but I can't seem to get an idea out of them." Travis told me as we both went into a long silence. We were thinking about any plans to try and I remembered what I thought about before. W-We would have to try to negotiate with the tribals. Its better then nothing.

It felt very strange...that I was the guy helping coming up with plans. The student surrounded by agents and flight attendants trained to calm down people in emergencies was the person thinking about what actions to take. For the love of god I'm just a kid really! A young adult at most!

"Travis...I did have an idea...though you might not like it." I said as Travis turned to me.

"I'm willing to listen to anything at this moment. What are you thinking about?" He asked and I somewhat surprised about his immediate attention.

"Well...When looking at our problems here. Stranded, outgunned, outnumbered and with no way to go home I think the best thing to do would be to try to befriend the tribals, as in help them with whatever they want and we play by their rules." I suggested as Travis looked at me with a serious grin that didn't change at all. I glanced back and part of my mind as telling me to stop thinking I was talking nonsense but I had to explain my plan.

"I-I mean think about it Travis. If these tribals wanted to kill us they would have back at the plane when they had numbers and were in close range. They had another chance when we were all sleeping. We were exhausted and I'm sure we wouldn't have the strength to fight them off...but here we all are, from what I saw we are still here, all of our guns are still ours, and did those guards seem very threatening to you? From what I can tell they were looking at us like guests instead of threats. Travis...even if we get rescued it will take awhile for the World to produce that portal we are going to need a lot of food and shelter. Looking at those wheat fields I cannot imagine these people are struggling to find food, if they live and fight against those androids with spears and swords and they are still alive somehow that must mean either one: those androids do not consider them much of a threat so we can lay low here or two: They have the strength and numbers to hold their own against androids that we, agents with machine guns, were having trouble fighting off. They welcomed us Travis...if we prove to them that we are friends we can build a little base here and figure out our next move. We NEED them Travis, we need to try to help them in whatever way they can and hope they'll trust us in return..." I offered my explanation hoping for the best.

Travis stared at me keeping that same expression. His eyes seem to pierce me like those spears the tribals had. I half expected him to stand up and walk out and warn the others that I was going insane or something.

"You had me at befriending the tribals." He answered nonchalantly back as I swear I was expecting him to burst out laughing and call it a lie but he nodded to himself.

"You have no idea how glad I am that I'm not the only person thinking about playing nice to the animals. I'm not going to lie Collin...we're in a serious fucked up situation here. I consider it a miracle that those walking animals welcomed us. Those agents trained for years to fight off any threat and those androids...killed them like they were nothing. Which reminds me...that shaman wolf, you know that one that sniffed you yesterday?" He asked as I nodded remembering her face...probably because she shoved it in front of mine.

"She wanted our leader to talk to their chief." He told me as I shivered. The president was in no shape to walk or talk. He said the ambassadors were killed in the crash. So right now we are completely...leaderless.

The thought that no one was leading us made me think about wanting to break down and cry. A group of people that joins another without a leader usually becomes bait or slaves. I mean I don't want to think that those animals would use us as slaves but we don't know their ethics!

Could the president even talk right now? Appoint a leader in his condition? I can't imagine these tribals would have anything to fix a piece of airplane shrapnel going through your chest.

"Well...did the president say anything about someone taking over in case he was sick or something?" I asked as Travis looked blankly into the ground suddenly...and he went pale at the question. I took that as a sign that he didn't meaning with the rest of us we had to pick a leader. Travis hid his mouth between his hands as if he were shock at something. He then muttered something but I couldn't hear it.

"Huh?" I asked as he removed his hands and I could tell he wanted to take a deep breath but its like he didn't have the strength to breathe.

"The president is dead" He said as it felt like a lightening bolt struck me dead at that moment...t-the.....the president....d-dead...t-t-the president...is dead? I couldn't even comprehend it in my mind. H-He can't be dead, the president of the United States can't be gone!

Travis didn't change his expression as my chest started to feel heavy as if ready to collapse on itself. W-We're completely leaderless...even if we get back home...H-How many of us would make it home? If the most important man on this mission is dead who's to say we're all going to die?!

A single stuttering gasp left my mouth as I slumped down on the bed letting my hair brush against the thin leather covering of the tepee. I felt like I could have fell over and let the tepee fall down. Travis still wasn't moving as if he had already gone through this...hell he was probably already there when it happened.

I readjusted myself and let my hands rest against my forehead as I was towards the ground but I had my eyes close shaking my head not wanting to believe any of this was happening. W-We're screwed...we have no leader, little supplies, and no way home.

"He died in the middle of the night...the animals said that his 'life energy' was too weak...." He said before he sobbed softly to himself.

"Oh god he didn't stand a fucking chance...I-I knew it when we first found him that he wasn't going to make it. I-I don't even know if we should have shot him to save all the pain he had to endure afterword." He said looking like he was going to cry but I could see on his face that he had already done it so many times before. He had no tears left.

"B-But...those animals...t-the herbs...h-he said that the herbs made him feel comfortable...t-that he was slowly not feeling anything. H-He even smiled before closing his eyes and-...and then...." Travis said as he looked ready...I don't know why but I felt like he was about to go into a rage like anyone would. He would probably go blaming the agents, the androids, the tribals, me...or himself.

"Travis" I said grabbing onto his arm.

"I'm sorry...but there's nothing any of us could have done. Y-You said he died comfortably?" I asked again hoping to sooth him. He nodded his head.

"He wasn't in pain...those tribals helped him in more ways then we could have. The president wouldn't have wanted us to panic or blame something...he would have wanted us to continue on without him...am I right?" I asked him appealing to his memories.

I realized that it could have quickly turned on me in a second. Who's to say the man never acted the way he did in public. I want to say with all these plans and speeches that he values human life but I never knew him in person until now. Travis sniffed up his dry tears before nodding again.

"Y-You're right....I know you're right Collin. H-He would have wanted us to think and remain calm...h-he even said it to me in case if a terror attack killed him. He would have....He would have wanted us to talk to the tribals." He confessed as I patted his back as he finally took a breath after what I swear he didn't take for a whole minute.

"I'm here Travis...I-I'm a bit in shock but I will do my best to help. We need to think about everything we need to fix and who to appoint a leader." I said as it took him a few minutes to kill his nerves before he looked ready to think.

"Alright...I think the obvious things that we need are these tepees and an understanding between our species. We need to show them that we are not enemies and we need their promise they are not going to hurt us." Travis pointed out as I nodded agreeing.

"Yeah we'll need to establish a trade possibly too. We don't have much supplies Travis and I think they can tell too. But looking at those wheat fields I'm sure they have more then they can eat...it might not be easy but I think maybe we could trade for work." I suggested.

"Work?" Travis asked puzzled by what I meant.

"I mean like maybe we could help them harvest the wheat or help guard the place in exchange for food and shelter....or maybe...I don't know if you might like this idea but..."

"Yes?"

"If it really comes down to it...we could trade...for a few of our guns." I said as I expected Travis to shake his head immediately and scowled me for even suggesting it. I was asking a agent to hand over some of our only weapons to a species that we only recently met.

"..."

His distant stare was making me increasingly nervous, it made me want to just say it was a joke. I was asking a man to hand over what little we have, what little advantage we have over to the tribals. Travis sighed as his eyelids dropped.

"Then the concern is they might use the guns against us will be another worry on our minds." He said as I nodded not denying his foresight. It was a risky deal, we might be handing over the tools they need to wipe us out but we might have no choice if it comes down to it. We know we can't face those androids head on so there was no hope there...we might have to gamble and hope that these tribals really will be friendly.

"Its just a last resort of course." I repeated but we knew that it very well come to that.

"Its not like we have any real power here. I don't think we should pick a fight with the tribals in order to get what we want. Carter even suggested that we threaten them with the stories of our jets and missiles to make them leave and use this place as our base." He mentioned as I should have guessed. I haven't meant this prick face to face really but he sounds like a real ass.

"You told him he was fucking retarded I hope?" I said as I couldn't believe but I cracked a small smile, then going into fantasy levels I actually heard Travis chuckle.

" Just that he should shut the hell up or use his asshole as his new mouth." Travis joke as we both chuckled, despite all the worries about our future we relieved some of the stress with jokes and gossip. But when we were done the burden of having to think of all the ways negotiating with the tribals could go.

This place is perfect, I won't deny Carter is right that we should use this place but do so in a peaceful way. I can only be thankful that Carter wasn't the president or the leader of us right now, it would be....wait...

I remembered that Carter, Alexander, and all those agents are ranked below the head of the security of the plane. W-We have a chain of command. First it was the president, then the ambassadors, and if something went wrong then it would fall on the person in charge of the security on Air Force One to be in charge! That would mean...

"Hey Travis..." I asked realizing my thoughts just now. Was he coming to me because he wanted some ideas before taking leadership? I thought he was a just a high ranked officer but I could have sworn seeing the agents following his lead as if he was the one in charge of them.

"Yeah?"

"You were the head of security on the plane right? Like a general?" I asked as he nodded.

"Yeah and?"

"W-Well...with the president...gone and the ambassadors dead that would leave you in charge." I said wondering if we were on the same page.

"W-What?" Travis asked softly as I was starting to think-

"U-Um well...the chain of command thing you know? I mean the president was in charge then the ambassadors....and then you...Travis....you're leading us right?" I asked as his eyes went wide and his cheeks seem to drop as if he had aged a couple of years.

"I-I'm...in charge? M-Me? N-No-no...wait...I would be tec-. No-I-it can't be." He stuttered as I realized he didn't even realize himself that he was the highest ranked person here. In fact I would technically be the lowest being a civilian. I thought Travis should have been prepared for this at training but its almost like he never expected this...then again who would have thought all this would have happened.

"Travis...you're in charge of being the head of security but...I'll be here and so will everyone else." I tried to reassure him as it only made him more in shock.

"B-But I've never lead anyone like this! I mean yeah basic reports and commanding agents b-but not actually leading a group of people diplomatically! I didn't sign up for that I wanted to be head of security for-for..." He stumbled at his last words.

"Travis. You are in charge but I'll be here...I-If you really need me then...I can be an advisor of some type I guess if you want." I offered not thinking about the importance of what I just said. I was pretty much offering to be second in us but I didn't want Travis to think he had to do this alone.

"N-No! I-I can't! I hardly passed those requirements and-and...Oh god don't make me lead. It will be a disaster. Look at where we are, this is the best the both of us have manage. Trapped on an alien planet with little food and a lot of us dead! I-If I lead I know things will only get worse." He said going into a rant about his doubts but it had to be him, it can't be me or anyone else. If he's received training then it must be up to him to remember what he learned.

"Travis...you were trained for this. You're the one in charge and the men will follow you, they look up to you. If they see you panicking there really will be trouble." I said as a part of my heart was doubting my own words.

When I lie or exaggerate things I get this burning sensation on the back of my neck and next to my ears. I really did feel like I was leaving him for the wolves, if something goes wrong, which probably will happen, everyone is going to blame him. I can't imagine what it must be like for him, being the leader of a group of humans against a formed society of alien tribals. One small mistake and for all we know he could his head chopped off.

Still I know Travis can do it. He's the only one who can. He looks like a leader, he has the voice to be a leader and he certainly has more experience leading men than anyone here.

Travis placed his hands on his eyes and started rubbing as if wanting to wake up but we all tried that. This is no dream, we were in someone's nightmare. I waited for Travis to regain his thoughts, he must have a lot on his mind right now. A dead president, aliens, negotiations, the burden and responsibility of leading the rest of us must be taking a toll on his mind right now.

"I-....I need time alone Collin. I-Is it okay if you leave your tent for awhile?" He asked as I nodded giving him his wish.

"Of course sir. Take all the time you need." I said getting off the bed and walking over to the leather door.

"A-And Collin." He added as I turned to look at him.

"I'm going to meet the chief at noon which I think is in an hour....can you-can you come with?" He asked as I nodded once again remembering my promise to be an advisor of sorts.

"Of course Travis. Whatever you ask." I said confidently letting him know that I will obey his wishes. The last thing he needs is people disobeying and fighting his orders.

I left the tepee and looked at the tribals that were still staring at us from a distance. It seems only more of them joined in at looking at the "strange hairless creatures" I was sure they were thinking. I know the others are frightened of them, I would be lying if I said I was also frightened of them. I'm sure they are physically more capable than us with their claws and fangs.

But still...I don't think they are going to harm us in anyway. They might make us leave but I don't think they intend to hunt us or enslave us. I suppose one thing to suggest to Travis would be to convince the tribals that they need us to help defend them. Despite having survived this long I'm sure the androids must be a constant threat to them...

I suddenly remembered something. The plane! I know the thing is never going to fly again but we could offer to break off some of the scrap and use it as a shielding for the wooden camp-

I then remember what was at the plane...W-We only returned for a moment but a sudden shock in my heart made me realize something....I-...I don't think we ever buried the dead. P-Paige...the agents....the ambassadors....their bodies were-were just left out there the whole night.

The thought chilled my bones as I felt so....dishonorable, like I wasn't even human. We just left peoples bodies in the wilderness...to rot in the sun...w-what if those androids did something to the bodies like-like burned them! Mutilated them or-or- the thought of all the horrible things a machine could do to a dead body made me a bit noxious. My throat began to feel tight as I remembered Paiges bodies...t-the blood down her suit...a-and I just left her there. W-We only but a blanket over her but that mind as well tell those fucking metal freaks "here destroy this'

Even if they are still there...they can't be left like that. I'll have to ask Travis if we can bury the dead. I'm sure he'll agree. I know I'm being a bit hard on myself right there in the moment any person would be concerned about their own safety before tending to the dead but now that we have a little base we have to honor the fallen.

It made me wonder what the tribals do with their dead. I don't want to seem paranoid but you never know what tribals do with their dead. In some places it was just like we do, we bury them and leave cherished possessions. But in Harvard I read about tribes that do strange things like let the corpses stay in their houses for days before putting them into the ground or even worshipping them in the open. Then others made that tightness in my throat come back stronger then before...I've heard about tribes that eat their own dead, who's to say these animals don't go back to earthly animal instincts and eat them.

But that made me wonder what Travis told me. He said they used herbs on the president so they must have some respect for the injured and sick instead of eating them like some of the tribes do "survival of the fittest" and that, a disgusting way of thinking in my opinion. Many people in history looked weak but that didn't mean they aren't worth helping.

Augh I'm just giving myself a headache about this paranoia. I don't want to accuse them of anything and I think asking tribals this early would be rude to them, we haven't even discussed anything yet.

Hmm....chances are we are going to be here on this planet for awhile, if not for the rest of our lives. We need to know about their culture, having to prove ourselves as both rational and capable visitors, then how to adapt to their laws and the environment.

I looked at all the warrior tribals continuing to gaze at us and I needed to know...are we being caged right now or simply examined. If we're being caged it's the first step a population does to control and possibly enslave or exterminate another population. I mind as well learn right now, I spotted Alexander leaning against a tepee where I can only guess where a log was holding the brute of a man up. He was looking at the tribals at a distance too and I was wondering if maybe he was thinking the same things I was. I suppose if something does go wrong I would like the strongest among us to have my back.

Going up to him he didn't even seem to acknowledge my approach he just kept looking and I could see his brow furrowing at them...I could tell the thoughts he were having we're pleasant ones. I'm sure for a bodybuilder and bodyguard he must be thinking about how to take on the tribals with his bare hands if needed. He might be even thinking about how to take down that lion chief. Gods that thing was huge, far bigger then Alex but if he had another man or 2 I bet we could hold down the chief if everything went bad.

Still I would rather think about positive things before having to resort to that but its always good to have a plan in case of anything. Alexander doesn't look like a negotiator so its probably only normal for him to have these kind of thoughts. I may think about more diplomatic ways but that doesn't always work so it would be nice to have any ideas in case talking doesn't help.

"Hey Alex." I said but he only tilted his head slightly and nodded acknowledging my presence but that's it. It's got to be a plan of action he's thinking about, I suppose it would be nice to know about any plans that I could help with but I understand if he needs muscle, which I lack.

"What are you thinking about? Wait-before you answer just let Travis and I talk with the chief before we consider fighting them okay?" I asked but Alex kept glaring at the distance.

"That jackass..." he softly growled as I wondered what he meant.

"The nerve of that animal!...saying I don't look like a bodyguard! BULLshit!" He said as I was...wait...did he mean.

"Y-You mean when he said you didn't look so tough?" I questioned wondering deep in my mind...really? That's what's made him pissed?

"Yeah the bastard! Calling me out in front of everyone! I should kick his ass for saying that! Look at me! I'm about twice as big as everyone here and he calls me a whip?! I'm going to beat that bull down and make me some steaks." He growled as I-...I guess he takes it personally. Definitely not where I see things or take insults on them but I got no reason to tell him not to worry about.

"Um...well...I-I guess if things go bad then yeah he's all yours but um aren't you worried about all the tribals with spears looking at us?" I questioned wondering if he was for real

"Oh yeah I noticed that. They didn't seem to make organized patrols that I can pick up. Why do you ask?" He answer nonchalant as I guess he was for real...he cares more about his stature as a bodybuilder then a possibly looming threat I guess.

"I'm wondering if their caging us like cattle you know? I was wondering if we could just walk around is all. I would like someone to be with me is all. You don't have to accept." I said as he got off the tepee and nodded.

"Yeah sure, maybe we'll even find that bull and kick him around a bit." He said with a smirk but what he doesn't realize is that if that bull wanted to lift me up and throw me straight into the ground...I think he just would.

"Um sure but try to hold back the urge if you can. We're not here on the best circumstances." I reminded him as it seemed to sadden him a bit. But he kept his head held high ready to guard me if needed and it was good to have him along.

We walked to the edge of the circle of warriors and approached one who looked a bit frightened of both me and Alexander. It was a black panther and he looked ready to run if we so much as growled, which is odd considering he was the natural predator in my eyes.

"Um excuse me...a-are we being forced in here?" I asked as I admit it probably didn't seem like something a person ready to fight would say but still I don't want to come of as aggressive.

"W-Um-What?" He replied.

"Can we go past you and look at the village?" I spoke my desires as he seemed surprised.

"Oh we'll we didn't have orders to keep you there so I guess...um I guess you can if you want. Um also is it true that you guys can spit lava so hot that the metal ones would melt?" He asked as I felt almost ready to laugh thinking it was some joke but his eyes looked ready for demonstration answer.

"Um no...we can't" I answered as the panther released a breath of air.

I walked past him but I heard Alexander mumbled.

"Only if we're provoked." He said with a smile as the panther looked ready to faint in shock.

"Alex!" I told as I shook my head both to him and the panther. For Alex not to joke around like that and to show the panther it was a lie but he still didn't look entirely convinced. The first joke between our kind...

It must seem strange for a teenage boy to scowl a bodybuilder like him but it feels...natural. I kinda feel this weird chemistry with him....in the sense of friendship of course! He's the muscles, I'm the talker. The classic duo in cartoons almost. Ha...it's kind of funny in my mind.

Well despite the little cartoon references in mind we had to keep on guard. We walked into the thick of all the tepees seeing only a few others who avoided us as if we were death or something. I suppose its only natural. We found a little road separating a large group of tepees from another. Strange...maybe its arranged like sections like a castle would be.

Like this section could be home to farmers while another is for the warriors and that. Still its not like we can go ask anyone like this. People kept their distance and parted whenever we walked nearby. Conversations would turn to whispers as we passed by the villagers doing daily chores like chopping wood or preparing food.

It didn't feel like we were being threatened, their stares weren't glares at us they looked like they were more in disbelief that we could exist and walk among them. Some tilted their heads like curious puppies as we looked back at them.

Alexander and I then walked to what looked like a blacksmith hut. The massive leather door was wide open showing a variety of axes, machetes, spears, and bows and arrows, which these tribals arm themselves with. A few had decorative feathers and gems it looked like. When we were walking towards them we would hear the clanks of what sound like the androids but it was really metal being pounded for combat.

The sounds stopped as we looked at the horse and what appeared to be his son, another little horse stop and look back at us as if we were going to do something. Hmm...with so many weapons they must arm themselves well....and where does all the metal come from? I wonder if maybe they have some sort of currency system like on earth but the horse and his apprentice son didn't seem to have the courage to ask us to leave or if we needed something. I kinda felt like a creep right now just looking at all the tribals without saying a thing.

"Um...these weapons look very nice." I said as the horse jumped a bit but looked at his rack of weapons then back at me.

I was hoping for an answer but he continued to stare back at me. The silence in the air was extremely awkward, for all I know I could have just insulted him in some way. Alexander just stood there next to me feeling like a third wheel but its not like anyone else is talking. I would have welcomed his input but then again...I'm the talker he's the muscle my previous thought haunted me.

I figured I got my answer as I waved goodbye for a split second and Alexander followed close behind. I could have sworn that when I left I heard the boy go over to his father and ask.

"What did he say?"

"He...told us that our weapons were very nice." He answered back as if...they had never heard of a compliment before. I'm sure there must be things as compliments in this village, its just got to be strange coming from me in their eyes.

"The people appear frightened of us." Alex said softly

"Yeah but can you blame them? They've never seen anything like us and all of a sudden we're living in their village." I reminded him as he nodded admitting my point.

As we took the brief stroll around the village I noticed some things. All of the food here...was either fish or vegetables...and even odder then that were vegetables I could pick out, corn, wheat, potatoes. I also saw some fish like northern pike and small mouth bass being prepared...but no meat. Nothing like hunters and gathers would.

Its was eerily creepy....that some of the foods we shared looked similar. What are the odds that two planets would share a lot of food DNA together along with inhabitants that looked like creatures from out planet and could speak the same language.

My headache and paranoia was starting to come back...is it possible...I mean you hear about theories like this ones where everything is similar except for a few changes like different dimensions. I also began to wonder if maybe the androids travled back in our time more then once!

I-I mean it is possible, they did it once and could probably do it again. Maybe looking for a new planet to conquer...but still not wanted to think bad of our hosts if the androids wanted to whip them out...why not do it right now? They are right here in the open with their valuable wheat right outside. Surely the androids would think to burn the wheat and let them starve or more likely out fight them with their lasers.

It doesn't feel right to me. I kinder part of my mind wanted to think that maybe by extreme measures that the androids maybe wanted our species to make contact with each other...but if they wanted that they could have just led us to the portal and not attack the president.

Is it possible that the tribals provided a threat to the androids and the androids could not beat their numbers? Maybe the androids don't have as much numbers as I feared. If these tribals could hold off and even hurt the androids numbers with tribal weapons I'm sure earth could hold them off. Our guns did hurt them but image what missiles and explosions could do to them.

All these thoughts about how the tribals live alongside with the androids was an insolvable puzzle to me. If they had the numbers why not get rid of them? Who knows for all I know the tribals might see them as gods or something.

Going into a trance like state of thinking I didn't even look ahead of me as I wlaked straight into one of the tribals who was also not paying attention. My right eye area hit right against its jaw as I stepped back seeing a flash a white and black for a moment.

I let out a soft grunt cursing myself for not paying attention. I at first hoped I ran into another agent but I saw a female tribal ahead of me. She was looking away and rubbing her muzzle as she mumbled to herself. Oh no...

"Augh Castro I swear if that's you I'm going to-" She said turning around but when she saw me her eyes went wide and she swallowed a nervous gulp. We looked at each other as if we were going to attack the other but we both didn't say a thing. I certainly don't want to start a fight...not that I would win it.

It was a tiger wearing only a linen bra and a loincloth to hide her most private areas but she had a chest built for....w-why am I noticing that first? Anyway she was taller than me by a few inches and I could image someone like her kicking the crap out of me.

"Y-...You're one of the-...the visitors...H-Humans you called yourselves right?" She questioned looking ready to run away if I showed any anger for our run in. I was still a bit sore but rubbing above my eye with my hand seem to dull the pain.

"Y-Yes I-I apologize for running into you I was thinking very hard and wasn't looking where I was going." I said as her tail flicked as if stunned at what I said.

"Oh wow! The others around the village worried you're people would be ill mannered and barbaric." She told me looking at me with awe all of a sudden. Like with that shaman wolf she looked at me just as intensely but at least she literally wasn't in my face. I tried to turn my head to look away but its hard to ignore a walking tiger looking right at you.

"U-Um no we're not rude, at least I hope we aren't to your culture."

"Not that I can see...hey is it true that your kind can kill the metal ones with their bare hands or throw little rocks with such force it goes right through the metal ones?" She questioned out of nowhere and now I was really starting to wonder where all of these rumors came from. Do we really look like we could rip apart metal with our bare hands?!...Well maybe Alexander could but most of us probably couldn't. And throw little rocks with such force what do they mean by that?...hmm...

"Um no. Thee-um "metal ones" are far too strong for my kind to take on bare handed. We don't even have claws and could you please tell the others that we don't have any amazing powers or anything?" I said holding up my hands showing her that if anyone could tear apart the androids it would be her kind.

She looked at my hands as if going back to her tiger instincts. She looked at it at all angles as if expecting something extremely different. I do remember like the animals on earth they had similar paw prints on their hands and feet but it was odd. While she looked at my hands I looked at her feet...strange....those look more like tiger feet than their hands. Come to think of it...every single tribal here had 5 fingers on their hands but had four on their feet like the ones on earth.

Except for the horses and the bull if I remember...they had hooves like the on earth but like the others here they had 5 fingers...interesting. It seems some are different from each other but they don't seem to mind. It's too early to say but it might hint that they are unaware of racism.

"Amazing...like my mother said hardly any fur on you! I see a bit on your arms and the patch on your head but its like you're a hairless one of us! I bet you must be freezing! Hehe." She giggled to herself and the thought made me chuckle softly as well. I suppose for them blankets and the like would only be useful for comfort and winter. Its not cold in the least bit in fact its actually pretty hot. There are no trees here and the sun is beating down on us.

Not to mention we're all still wearing yesterdays clothes, nearly all of them black suits and pants making it even warmer for us. I'm surprise that they aren't sweating or lying in the shade like earth animals do.

"Ha. No actually we're pretty warm.....hey...can I ask something?" I asked as she finished looking at my hands and looked up at me ready to receive a question.

"Are your people afraid of us?"

The question brought an immediate frown on her face and I took it as a bad sign. I suppose I should have guess but you never know. If they are afraid its not like they kick out outcasts. I mean this girl is talking to me and I don't see disapproving looks from anyone else.

"Well...um...some of them are....others don't trust your people. They think you will bring the metal ones or unwelcomed fights. I-I know the shaman said you mean no harm but that doesn't mean..." She said trying to find the words but there was no need. Just because 'we' don't mean harm doesn't mean our presence will cause trouble.

"No its perfectly understandable. Our people would be just the same if you came to our planet." I told her hoping not to put her in anymore uncomfortable positions but she looked up in surprise again.

"Planet? You have your own planet?" She asked as I wondered how much information I should give out.

My paranoia kicked in again wondering if maybe...this girl is a spy. Try to make us admit our weaknesses. Maybe they are cleverer than we think. They might be trying to make us trust them before stabbing us in the back. Crap and worse I gave out a bit of information already like the no claws...then again that was pretty obvious if they just looked. In fact I bet the next question will be about our guns. How they work and all that.

"Oh well never mind I'm Iona by the way. Its nice to meet you! The others might be scared of you but...you seem nice." She said suddenly smiling and then holding out her hand. That startled me, at first I thought maybe she realized that I knew what she was doing but...I couldn't sense any deceit in her...I usually can tell when someone means bad.

I was intrigued again by this act though...a handshake I'm sure...just like us. Tribals around our world have different ways of greeting each other. Some are aware of our handshakes but these aliens knew about it already? Hmm...if we do get back home I'll be sure to tell scientists there are culture and mental similarities between us.

I held out my hand wondering if she really was offering a handshake and quickly she placed her hand into mine then shook it like anyone on earth would. I instantly felt what felt like sandpaper on my hand and I knew it was her paw prints. The feeling made my arm felt numb. She could just swipe me with her claws and I would have a huge gapping gash on my arm if she wanted. But yet...there was a tenderness to it.

"U-Um nice to meet you Iona. My name is Collin." I said as once again she looked at me in awe

"That's right! Someone said you had names like us but I couldn't be sure! Cou-Collin! Yes. Haha that's a funny name but that's okay. I hope we can learn about each other later." Iona said as I noticed she was still shaking my hand. I wondered if at first it was meant to be this long for them but she noticed it too.

"Oh forgive me." She quickly apologized taking her hand away. I looked at my hand and it looked the same but I felt this tingle in my wrist.....The first handshake between our species.

"Collin we should probably go back. Travis is waiting for us." He told me as I realized how did he know that I need to meet Travis?...Did Travis tell him too?

"Bye Collin!" Iona waved as I waved back noticing another casual greeting similarity...the wave goodbye.

Alexander and I walked together but the trip was silent. There was a good reason why too. The meeting between us and the leaders of this place will decide everything. Travis must feel like a wreck I bet. I'll stand by him but I don't know how much I can do for him at this point. I mean besides our guns we aren't that strong right now, we're about as weak as can be. Inexperienced leader, stranded, little supplies...it all spelled disaster for us to be demanding anything.

I guess we just have to hope that they are a nice as they promised...

Suddenly a group of little boys and girls ran into us. Some of the boys touched Alexander's and my leg then ran off each of them declaring how brave they were for doing it against the "furless ones" Hmm...maybe they do have some 'racism' in their culture. They called the androids metal ones and now we might be called the furless ones.

Their little dare seemed to spook Alex a bit as he looked a bit more on guard after that. I'm pretty its because they surprised him when he was suppose to protect me. Even though I won't ask but I'm pretty sure Alex seemed pretty relaxed back there. He wasn't on guard because he was looking at the village like me. He didn't seem like he was ready for a fight or anything, well except for the bull.

I've got to admit...simple life does sound great at times. In simple times you can prosper, all you have to do is work and you can make a fortune. While back home, there would be so many lines and paperwork to fill out. Some people are just natural dreamers, they dream they can be artist or an actor or a senator but others keep piling on report after report that it kills their dream.

I know what that's like...to have your dream killed before your eyes...to have everything crumble apart in front of you and everyone blames you for it....

I'm starting to wonder...should we really even mention our politics to them? Here it's a simple chief is in charge, he listens to the shamans and elders advice then makes a decision. He doesn't have to please everyone in order to do what he thinks is right...

It really is a shame that the president is dead. He and the chief would have been fast friends I bet. The president would have yielded to their rules in respect while the chief would have helped us at our hour of need without second thought.

Before I could think deeper I noticed something at my feet. I knelt down and picked it up to see it was a doll. It was a bit dirty and seen a lot of use but it was still cute. It was a tannish white with the basic features. Head, arms, legs, chest but something else above where the butt would be...another arm.

I let out a soft chuckle at what I just thought another arm, it was clearly meant as a tail. I also saw to little beads where eyes would be located. I then heard something approaching me before stopping. I turned to it to see it was one of the children that ran by. A little wolf girl, if I had to guess hardly 5 years old but I don't know the lifespan of these aliens.

I caught a glimpse of her running over with a soft smile before she saw me looking at her and it was like she had just seen a ghost in me. Her eyes went back and forth between the doll in my hands and my face.

I gave her a soft smile before handing the doll over to her but she immediately backed away like I threatened her. My smile instantly went away as I motioned for her to take it back.

"Here. You can have it." I told her not demanding in anyway.

She took a few steps back but she didn't say a word. It's like she saw a monster in me. I looked around hoping maybe Iona or one of the others would be brave enough to take it then give it to her but they all kept a safe distance. Alexander looked a bit sad wishing he could help but if she's frightened of me, a giant like Alexander would make her scream in fear.

"I'm not dangerous. I just want to give you your doll back." I tried to reassure her but it seemed to do the exact opposite. She turned around and ran towards another female wolf who I guessed was her mother. The mother looked at me and I still held out the doll showing I was still willing to give it to someone but the mother guided her daughter inside their tepee. Like the little one she looked terrified of me.

I stood up and looked around for anyone willing to do this simple favor of returning a little girls toy but they all stayed too far away. I almost had the desire to throw it at one of them. I'm sure they think I have some disease or I'm going to bite them but throwing the doll would look hostile or it might ruin the doll.

I sighed before looking back down at the doll looking into its bead eyes. It-its haunting...a little child...having a toy figure...before seeing something that changes their life forever....I just pray to god that I'm not going to be a bad change.

Taking another deep sigh in I said to myself.

"We have a lot to work on." Before tucking the doll in my suit pocket.

(Castro's view)

The air in the village has changed. It was once easy and soft now it is hard to breath. The guests called humans have caused the elders to become worried and scared. The idea that those who we are suppose to look to for courage and wisdom are sitting in my fathers tent debating about what to do with them. Some are visibly shaken when the warriors told of the forest ruined by the humans flying machine.

I'm sitting next to Zio as the elders talking and argue amongst themselves. None have addressed us in anyway but I must be ready for questions...I-I was the first to talk to them, the first to met them I'm sure they are going to ask me what the human called Collin did when I approached him alone.

From what I can hear the elders think they are some sort of evil spirit arisen but the shaman has reassured everyone that her first judgment was correct, they are not here to harm us but still we cannot ignore how a great piece of forest has been burned by the humans.

I looked over to my brother Zio who was waiting patiently for father to finish talking with the shaman in private. He was looking into the ground struggling about how he felt about the humans too. I was struggling too.

The elders only heard about it, we 'saw' it, along with numerous metal ones bodies. Literally some of them had holes as large as rocks in them. What did they use to create those? Rocks? Could they have thrown them so hard that it pierces through the strongest material we know? Imagine what they could do with our weapons! We couldn't hope to stand against them even with these numbers.

Boris is standing in the corner watching everyone talk about the new arrivals. He seems angrier than usual. I have to guess it was with that huge human, the one he escorted to the tepees belonging to the humans. Boris is usually the kind of guy who seems uninterested in challenges and lets everyone be, but ever since he talked to that huge human he's been sour as if wanting to fight him.

I know if anyone could fight the humans it would be Boris and my father but I don't want Boris to charge into something even he might not be able to handle! These humans must be more powerful then we feared. If they fought off the metal ones with those blunt staffs and spears it certainly proves their strength. If they've managed to build flying machines and have those armored turtle things it speaks about their intelligence.

If they wanted I have no doubt they could take the village but that's where I want to voice my opinion. They haven't attacked yet so it must mean they have no desire for a fight. They haven't shown any desire to attack or corrupt us and we shouldn't provoke them by trying to kick them out or cage them.

If they don't have fur they must not be affected by the cold much. When winter comes they probably don't feel a thing and have no use for blankets. But what's with that weird loincloth they all wear? Its black and it covers their entire body...I think...maybe it is part of their body.

The hut we were in was massive and in the center of it was the fire. A fire is lite every day and it is said that the flame shows wisdom in someones words. If the flame glowed bright in one direction it meant the person in that direction was wise. Right now the flame was dim showing no favor in any ones words.

The voices of the elders started to get louder and it wasn't pleasant to listen to.

"They must be spies for the metal ones! Only they can fly through the skies like the flying diamonds the metal ones use!"

"They have no fur yet they are not metal we have many warriors who claim that they saw blood among the injured. The metal ones do not bleed red blood!"

"It also means they are not invincible! We must kick them out and be ready to defend ourselves if they refuse to leave!"

"How do you know that it was the metal ones who injured them?! The fake phoenix they rode crashed and left many wounded. The metals may have been nothing more but a nuisance to them!

"Beings with such strength like that but with no fur must be demons! They didn't attack our warriors because they had already satisfied their bloodlust from the metal ones!"

"How would you know?!"

"Let us ask the first one who saw them!" An elder exclaimed as the elders responded with an approving shout. It woke me up as I prepared to speak. Waiting for them to address me.

"Zio tell us what did they do? Were they bathing in the dark blood of the metal ones?" He asked I felt a strike in my heart...Z-Zio?...t-they're asking Zio about his encounter rather than mine? B-But I was the first to see them! I-

"My brother was the first one to see them actually maybe you should ask him." Zio growled as I had mixed feelings about his defense. He stood up for me and acknowledges my part...but once again my brother and father are standing up for me. The elders looked displeased with Zio's answer but reluctantly questioned me.

"Very well...Castro...what did the humans do? What did you see?" He asked as I took a deep breath to calm myself.

"I saw one of them near a giant white rock which came from the fake phoenix. One of them was dead against the white rock while 2 metal ones were dead. I saw one slowly approaching the rock and I thought it was my chance to kill it from behind. When I threw the spear I ran up to take its head but instead was....one of them. He pointed his strange staff at me but didn't attack me. He looked at me strangely..." I said remembering what happened yesterday.

I didn't get a good night rest because of it. The humans face was in my mind, How quickly he prepared himself for me. He looked ready to attack but-

"Strange? Strange how?" Another elder questioned.

"Like...he was scared. He was frightened of where he was and got even more frightened of me. Yet he didn't attack....he kept his distance and lowered his weapon when I did the same."

"Lowering a weapon doesn't mean he's peaceful!" Someone shouted as I answered back.

"But he talked to me! He gave my father's spear back! He would have kept it if he meant harm!" I said as they looked at my outburst. I-I couldn't believe I just spoke out to the elders. I receive some glares from them but...oddly...when I looked at my brother he smiled as if proud.

"And that same creature talked to me later when they showed us the flying machine." Zio added as they turned back to Zio.

"Instead of asking for surrender or anything else...he asked for medicine...to help his injured people. IF they were evil creatures they would have left the dead but they helped them. They have honor." Zio made clear as I remembered the human named Collin words to Zio.

Father then came in with the shaman Akia and sat next to the fire like everyone else except for Boris who stood proud and strong for his leader. Akia stood by my father and father gave Zio and I a nod.

"My fellow kinsmen. I understand the situation we have been placed in is a difficult one. As you are aware they are furless beings that live within our walls right now. I now they frighten us but something tells me they are just as scared as us. "

"Chief Teryal! Where have these furless ones come from?" An elder fox questioned.

"They came from the sky in a giant flying bird. But that is all I know...I think they came from the gods." My father said as everyone looked at him amazed at what he was saying.

"From the gods?! F-For what purpose?!" A stunned elder horse asked

"We do not know and we are not meant to know. They are testing our patience and kindness to those different from us. I feel that if we attack them we will anger the gods. Make no mistake my friends...these are no immortal beings like spirits or demons." He said as everyone gasped.

"The leader of the "humans" died last night from his injures. I can only assume that they are leaderless right now." Akia stepped in as father nodded at her words.

"I-If that is true we can kick them out or strike them! Order them to leave and never to return." An elder cheetah rose up speaking his desires as soon rallied behind him but father silenced them.

"Would we expect them to be calm about it?" Father questioned but even I could tell

it was a trap if anyone said anything else.

"If I and my sons died in battle against the metal ones what would happen?...Chaos...we would fight each other for leadership and attack anyone who wasn't with you. Telling the humans to leave with no leader would make them panic and attack the only place they know where to find food and shelter...Kanza. I have no desire to fight these humans my kinsmen. I've heard the scouts tales...these humans aren't powerless...the metals thought so and most of the ones who attacked....lie dead with numerous holes. Even if we won against them...would it be worth it? Would we have enough to survive? The metal ones could attack later against our weakened forces and wipe us out." Father reasoned with them and no one spoke out again. The fire glowed bright with my father showing his wisdom once again to all the others. There was a silence before someone spoke up.

"T-...Then what do we do?" An elder panther asked.

"They are a lost tribe with no home....we should treat them as such and listen to any requests they ask. We have enough food...I fear we waste too much of the wheat for the gods to be happy with. We might learn much from these newcomers." Father said with a reassuring smile.

Then as if the gods had planned it as such the leather door opened and 5 figures entered. The elders looked at the figures in awe as did I...there stood five humans. In the center was a man with neat black hair but he looked just as exhausted as all the rest. From what I can see I would say he's the leader, next to him on the right was the giant human and standing just as proud as Boris was. On the left was...him...Collin if I remember. He was looking all around the room. He was looking at the elders, the fire, and all the weapons that decorated my fathers hut. It was odd because he seemed more at ease then the rest, he looked nervous but almost as if he was use to seeing our kind. The two others were some other humans who I never noticed before. I noticed at their side they both had one of the smaller staffs hardly bigger then a dagger. They must be extra guards...are they expecting trouble?

I know it must be frightening for them to be here but we are honorable people. If there were a disagreement we would never fight in the fire's presence. If there is a fight that cannot be settled it will take place away from the fire to show we have no gone back to our savage ways before the gods show themselves to us.

The elders moved away from the humans but kept their eyes on them as if waiting for an attack. Just because we won't fight near the flame doesn't mean these humans won't. All the elders including my father were siting around the flame but the humans stood up. I could tell from the leaders face that he was confused if he should sit down with us or remain standing. It wouldn't matter either way. Most of the elders must sit because they cannot stand for long debates...and they knew this one would take hours if not days to discuss.

Father looked at the human leader with respectful eyes. He didn't know if the human had any experience in leading and was willing to let them take as much time they needed to make their desires clear. Father was usually like this, always willing to help. Its said some tribes in the West are still savage enough to not allow meetings and debates among the elders but not here we welcome the chance for others to speak their minds...I only hope these humans make reasonable demands.

"Humans...that is what you call yourselves correct? I'm sure you've noticed that your presence here has caused my tribe to be worried. I however am not so easily frightened. I know you have lost your leader and I am willing to negotiate with you for whatever you need to survive. I don't know what you see us as but we are not heartless...we are kind to those in need but a terror to those who dare hurt us. So tell me human leader...what is your name?" He asked as everyone was caught a bit off guard. I thought he would ask terms or demands but he wanted a name before anything else?

The human leader looked the most surprised and looked towards the giant human and Collin. Collin shrugged and guessed it was okay to give their names. The human leader clear his throat and took a step closer to the flame.

"I-I am Travis...I was the head of security for the president..or-um I guess you could say um-something like-head warrior?" He questioned and I...was a bit underwhelmed by his voice. I expected hardened warriors and leaders but this man was speaking as if he had seen a demon. Father then motioned for the rest of them to speak...Collin stepped forward.

"I am Collin, I was...a student until now, now I am acting as an advisor to Travis." Collin said with a bit more confidence. Then the giant human stepped forward. Boris and him instantly locked eyes and glared at each other. The human looked at Boris with rage I have never seen before...this human was the most frightening to me.

"I am Alexander, bodyguard of both Travis and Collin. I've served the army for over 15 years and never once lost a fight." He said looking at Boris at the end and I only saw Boris glare intensify at his words. Boris clenched his arms that were crossed against his chest. Boris was holding back the desire to want to fight him...no...if anything I would say Boris wanted to challenge him! It takes a lot for Boris to do that. Once or twice a warrior annoyed Boris enough for him to do it but it takes weeks for him to explode.

When the human Alexander stood back with the others the one named Travis and Collin looked almost frustrated at his words. I could have sworn I heard one of them whisper.

"Goddammit Alex." As if they were frightened of our reaction...but we were all intimidated by his words...n-never lost a fight in 15 years...While Boris can claim the same who's to say all these humans take a right of passage? A fight of the fittest! Like a dozen of them enter a ring and only one comes out. We hear horrible tales of how leadership positions were handled before the metal ones came and they seem so barbaric.

The other two introduced themselves as Tyler and Greg and said they could be called warriors. As I guessed just extra guards both of them were on guard but didn't look a match for Boris. When the introductions were complete my father spoke again.

"And I am Chief Teryal leader of this village we called Kanza. These are the elders who act as voices of concern for my people and some of you know our shaman Akia." He motioned his hands as the elders bowed in respect out of tradition while Akia placed her hand on her heart and closed her eyes, a shamans way of greeting during debates. Travis looked at her with a distant sad face as if remembering something painful, Akia looked at him like a mother does to a child in need...I wonder why?

"My most trusted bodyguard is Boris over there in the corner." Father mentioned as Boris snorted towards Alexander. Alexander smiled a smug grin at Boris as if taunting him to fight right in the middle of hut

"And these are my sons. Zio and Castro." He motioned towards us and both I and Zio bowed towards the humans. I noticed Collin looking at me and he must be surprised to see me. I could say the same to him.

"Now...humans what are you here for?" My father asked.

"We...were attacked by the androids-um metal ones as you call them and crashed here." The one named Travis said.

"Hmm. So they attacked you, did you provoke them in anyway? Have you seen them before?"

"No! We never expected to be attacked by anything like that! They attacked us through some portal that came out of nowhere."

"Portal?" my father questioned.

"Yes it came out of nowhere. Please we do not mean any harm to anyone. We had no choice but to defend ourselves!" Travis suddenly pleaded as it surprised all of us to her pleads rather than demands.

"Of course, no one here questions why you have killed many of the metal ones. Our tribes are attacked from them occasionally, your kills prove you are capable of defending yourselves. The concern my kinsmen have is...can you do more then defend yourselves?"

No answer. The humans looked entirely uncomfortable with the question as did the elders. I-I have to admit myself I think father could have asked at a better time. Father soon noticed the silence then changed the question.

Tell me...do you have a way home?" Father asked.

There was a pause from the humans before Collin spoke.

"No...we have no idea how to go home." His answer made the elders whisper among themselves. Father waited for the whispers to end before speaking again.

"Then you must find a new home...do you have any idea where you want to live?"

The humans looked at each other. Collin motioned for Travis to speak but he didn't. Travis seemed frozen and Collin shook his head like a parent does when disapproving of foolishness. He started his words looking at Travis still before turning to father midway.

" 'We' talked and we would like to live here if that is okay with your people." Collin spoke as the elder talked more openly.

So they really do want to live here...I don't know what to think about that. Part of me wants to know about them but what if they less than pure intentions for us? They destroyed a massive part of the forest and gods know they might do it again.

But again...this weird feeling...almost like the shaman I'm not getting this evil feeling from them. The fright in the voice of Travis in unmistakable they fear they cannot beat us...each side is fearful of the other. That is both good and bad, when sides are fearful that must mean they respect the other in some way, they admit that if anyone could beat them it would be the other...but all it would take is one single bad move and we would be at war with the humans.

It might come down to a vote...do the humans stay or leave? If the elders cannot decide it will come down to Boris, Akia, Zio, and myself to have the final vote. If my father wills it though it must be done. I don't know what my father wants though sure he talks about them kindly but that doesn't mean he understands the consequences of letting them stay.

"So you desire to stay?...What will you do for us in exchange?" Father asked as the humans looked at us as if ready for something they had prepared for.

"Everyone in our tribes plays a vital role. The farmers and fisherman feed us, the warriors defend us, the elders and myself lead the village...what do you think you can do for us?" Father asked them.

Another pause...I don't know if I like they hesitation from the humans. Once again Collin was looking at Travis to speak but what I assumed was the leader wouldn't. Collin was visibly frustrated with him and looked at Alexander and the two others but they didn't speak either. I heard Collin sigh as he spoke again.

"We considered that and in exchange for living here and for using your supplies we will help guard you from the metal ones and help fish and farm if you want us to. We realize that our help might not be accepted but...we are willing to work to survive. We only desire to survive in peace and find a way home. You have all of our words that we will not attack any of you or try to interfere with your leadership-" Collin said before father frowned.

"No.." he said as everyone froze. Collin especially when he thought he broke a taboo or something. I didn't think they were asking anything out of reason what was father thinking? The humans looked at the elders as if expecting them to lunge at them with weapons drawn.

"If you are going to live among us...you too deserve a say in our village." My father answered with a smile as the elders looked "stunned" wouldn't be right, they looked at father as if they had seen a bizarre monster or something. Zio and I looked at father amazed by his words. T-They would get a say in our village? Like another elder?! B-But if they were willing to place themselves below ourselves it would-...then again if we started to use them too much they might rise against us.

Was that your plan father?...d-did you from the beginning intend for the humans to live here? Is the council just a tradition that must be done? I suppose my father knows what he is doing...I-I hope.

"U-Um thank you sir. I-I promise we will not ask much in return." Collin said before stepping back.

"In our council ask anything you would like and we will decide on it...but-" Father added before looking at them curiously.

"I cannot see who is the leader right now...I understand your leader died last night of his injures. You have my sympathy for your loss but...do you have a leader to replace him? If you do he will be the one to take his place on this council." Father said as a few of the most stubborn elders want to yell in protest but they could not speak against him.

The one named Travis stepped forward and clear his throat.

"We have decided who will lead us..." Travis said as all of the stood aside but

suddenly he held out his arm and pointed at Collin.

"Collin will lead us." He said as Collin's eyes opened wide.

"WHAT?!" He said out loud as it startled the elders.

"Hmm him? Yes...the one who talked to me during your arrival it makes sense."

"W-WAIT NO! I-I'M NOT THE LEADER TRAVIS IS!" Collin shouted back but Travis looked like he was clueless.

"W-Well I'm more like a general or an advisor but Collin is the one with any leadership experience." Travis said as my father looked confused about what was going on.

"What are you talking about?!" Collin demanded his face was I swear to the gods bright red.

"Is this true?" Father asked Travis as the elders looked in awe at the humans...w-was this the way they handled leadership responsibilities?

"Oh yes. You see we have a similar way of ruling ourselves. A council with a chief or "president" we call him. A president is chosen by a majority of people or by a successor called a vice president. Sadly we do not have either...but Collin was studying to become a leader." Travis claimed as it opened my eyes. Him? Studying to be a leader? Father seemed to read my mind as he spoke.

"You mean like an apprentice for a blacksmith?"

"Yes Collin was studying with the qualities that makes a leader, first he took speaking classes then later he went onto war tactics meaning he is capable of leading us in peace or war against the metal ones." Travis said as Alexander had to hold back Collin from pushing Travis it looked.

"H-How did you know that?!" Collin looked stunned.

"I told you I looked at your file. You have the most training in leading while I'm more of an advisor. Collin...we need you. You had the courage to fly the plane here, talk to the them first, be calm enough to make terms of peace...if anyone else was in charge we'd all be dead most likely." He told Collin looking right at him as Collin calmed down.

I could see he was still stunned and angry over something but yet I can't deny Travis's words. He did show the signs of a capable leader...my concern though is that he is young...like me! Its strange for the young to lead the old but I do not know their ways so I cannot speak my mind about their confusing ways.

But...I cannot tell if I somewhat envy or pity Collin. I always wanted to lead the village but I am no blind fool the responsibility of keeping my people safe would make me shiver about every action I took. My brother is going to be the one who leads though because he is older. I may be his bodyguard someday if he wishes.

I can only imagine what Collin must be going through not only to lead your people but with us, a race of creatures they have never seen before and he has no idea of our ways...He must feel horribly overburdened.

"If that is true then I would like to give my opinion that Collin does seem the most capable of being the leader. His age does concern me and does he have any experience of leading?" Father asked as Collin hung his head as if he were condemned.

"No...while he would be the most capable he has never actually led anyone." Travis replied as father nodded his head.

"Very well then...under the terms that the humans do not harm our people, help defend out territory from the metal ones and helps bring food to the people they will be permitted to stay, eat, and given a voice in our tribe. Do you agree Collin?" Father asked him as Collin kept his head hung down. I wonder what he's thinking right now...surely that's everything they asked for.

"Yes...they sound fair." He said softly but it was clear he felt betrayed. The elder breathed a bit easier now that the meeting had officially ended. Some of the elders began to leave as did all the humans except for Collin who stood there hiding his face from everyone.

There was something...familiar about that look...that look of betrayal...Like he wasn't given a fair chance like I've never been. My brother and I chose to stay as father and Akia talked to Collin about other matters.

When everyone was gone and only the five of us remained my father spoke to Collin again.

"Collin...I know you must feel overwhelmed. You have my word that I will not take advantage of you in anyway. I am a fair and just ruler and I understand how you must feel. You're placed into a position that I think no one ever wants to be placed in. I know the others might not believe me but I can see...you are just like us aren't you?" Father asked as Zio and I looked amazed but Akia and Collin looked unfazed by his words.

"I....I feel like....I'm going to lead us all to our deaths if I'm in charge." Collin whimpered looking up at father showing tears still in his eyes. Father looked at him almost with caring eyes like he gives to Zio and I.

"Yet according to Travis it sounds like most of your people owe you their lives. Akia told me that she saw no harm in you...but yet saw harm in yourself." He informed Collin as that got him to look up and wonder how she could tell that.

"We cannot tell what exactly happened to you but Akia can tell it still haunts you. A tremendous regret in your life."

"..." Collin remained silent as father shook his head wondering if he had made a mistake.

"You know as leader people must look up to you for guidance. If you do nothing but mourn they will lose faith in you and bad things will happen. I cannot ask you to forget what happened to you but you must put it aside to help your people. They need a leader and I think you are the one to do it." Father told Collin as he still remained silent.

"I will be here to offer advice and help if you ask for it. For matters of wisdom and history can you see Akia. We will do our best to make sure everything will be okay for both of our people."

With that Akia and father left as Zio started to follow, part of me wanted to comfort the other boy but...I-...I didn't have the courage to do so. I got up and left with my brother as the human looked into the fire. Staring into it with a blank stare that sent a cold breeze through my fur.

I went back to my tepee and examined my spear. It was dull after all the strikes against wheat dummy's I make when no one is looking. I went over to the blacksmith nearest to me but I couldn't get that human's face out of my mind. He looked so...empty...

I placed my spear on the grindstone heard the shrieking sound of my spear being readied for another day of training. Looking at the sky it was past midday meaning I would only get a few hours before I would risk myself to the metal ones said to travel at nights. Its said that their blood red eyes can be seen...stalking you...ready to kill you or skin you alive.

But I'm not as afraid of them as I once was...I killed a metal one, but I never did take its head as proof. If I claimed such a thing the others would call me a liar along with a coward as they always do...But...at least that human has a chance to make himself known. Here I am still the only one of my kind in the village.

The elders have spread the word that the humans were living with us and that the leader of the humans was a young man. This sounded strange to most of the villagers that we would accept them like brothers and that someone so young would have wisdom that the old were suppose to have. We believe that the older you are the wiser you are, the young seek guidance from the old so to have someone young question the young seems odd to us.

Whatever my father was thinking I will support him. Maybe within time we'll forget they are different from us but right now its going to be a weird couple of months ahead. Collin said that the humans will help defend us and gather food...I wonder if the others would trust them to handle such important responsibilities. I'm sure rumors of poison or spying will continue.

Well I have enough to worry about besides the humans. I still need to train to be a warrior, I suppose I have no choice but to continue to fish and gather wheat with the harvesters. Its going to be a long time before I can ask to take the warriors trial again.

I returned to my hut looking at everything I had compared to the humans...I had a basket full of loincloths, a bed holding a few blankets of linen, my spear next to my bed and a few amulets of past failures when I took the warrior trials. I look at them to remind myself of my mistakes, how to practice good form with striking, and how to be on time always.

That human though...Collin would probably be getting a lot of stuff now. He might receive a lot of gifts from my father and Akia, it makes me jealous a bit but then I remember what he is responsible of and that jealousy quickly fades.

I sighed thinking I would go with the fishermen and help with the catch again today...I'm starting to wonder if maybe the gods placed the humans here to entertain those of us who have no excitement in their lives. Maybe I should have stayed next to the human, listen to him become like a personal guard or something but that's foolish....But then again he is young like me so...

Putting aside my thoughts I left my tepee and started to walk over to the side where the fishermen were preparing to set out for the ponds and rivers. All around me people looked all around them as if expecting something bad...the humans I'm sure. Our people are going to be cautious in the coming months.

Sadly I wish I followed their caution...for a different reason.

"You must feel a bit happier now huh?" I heard a deep voice to my side and I instantly recognized it. It put a frown on my face as I wanted to say "really? I'm still the thing you worry about when humans are around?" turning my head I saw Fenrien with a scowl.

"What do you want?" I asked clearly not in the mood for any of his insults. He just won't leave me alone! It could be everyday for weeks he lets me know of my failures and how useless I am.

"I'm just saying finally you aren't the ugliest and most disgusting thing around now anymore Castro. You must feel like you've been reunited with long lost relatives right?" He mocked me as I just knew this was what he was planning all day. I remained silent hoping it would bore him but it didn't.

"Whats the matter? Nothing to say to them? What happened to your pride when you said you'd become a warrior? What's that? They didn't even test you? How could they possibly ignore you? After all you brought out the oracle and got everyone thinking the white phoenix had returned." He taunted me relentlessly each word was striking my heart knowing it was true...I-I missed out again. Its bad enough when you fail something but when someone is just mercilessly assaulting me with insults I-I-!

"What do you want from me?! Don't you get tired of this? Do you really have nothing better to do?!" I complained as he smiled liking my frustration with him. I felt on the verge of tears if this continued

"Nope making you miserable is just what I like to do." He said as I hoped he would just leave on his own before he continues.

(Collin's view)

I looked into the fire for what felt like years...in the matter of a few moments...I became leader of the humans on an alien planet....T-Travis...h-he tricked me...H-He was the one with leadership experience....and the bastard dumped it on me!

I understand his logic...yeah so I did take action when others didn't maybe I should have been more like a bodyguard like Alex but I can't lead these people! My headache felt like it was pounding against my head. D-Does anyone seriously think a kid like me should be in charge in a situation like this?!

I wanted to deny it. I wanted to think that as soon as everyone else hears it they'll force Travis to be leader instead of me. How could they possibly blame me for wanting to turn the tables on him like he did to me!!!

....We're done...its over. Unless we get rescued or find a way home soon we're dead. I studied tribal culture for only a few classes but not everything is the same here. What do they consider sacred? What would be the punishments for not following the laws? Do they have brutal rituals to whatever religion they follow?

My heart was sinking further with every question. My mind in total chaos thinking just how did this happen?! How?! Travis may not be the best speaker, so what? Not many people are but at least he's a fighter, led some agents, and had just about as much experience as me when studying to lead.

All I have are a few classes, and not much at that! I had only 3 classes this year related to public speaking and the last one ended with a B plus. I'm not fit for this, I'm not fit for this! I screamed constantly in my mind.

...It took awhile for me to regain some of my thoughts. I still think I'm a bad choice for leader, I'm not the worst I know. Someone like Carter would probably have us at war with the tribals and Alexander would led through intimidation rather than negotiations. Not that Alexander was a bad person I can just tell he isn't the leading type.

Standing up and looking into the fire I thought about the fire in the plane...the jet fuel...everything we had already lost...it was now my job to make sure we don't lose anything else. We have so little...part of me wants to say it should be easy keeping that little part safe...but if it so much as just got starched it would be a major blow to us.

I didn't know where we were, what we are going to do, how we were going to do anything but I made a prayer looking up at the top of the hut. I could see the sun beyond it as I wondered...would our god hear us right now? I'm not too religious but I've been curious about topics related to it. I always wondered if a true believer was taken away from Earth would they still think God would hear them on a different planet?

"Am I the right person to led them?" I asked as I suddenly saw the flames in the fire whip at me. I backed away taking it as a sign but...was it good?....probably not. Fire attacking you must be a bad omen or something....

I walked out of the hut and looked at the village. We were on a small mound while the rest of the tepees were on leveled ground. From here I could see all the way to the wooden walls...our 'great' protection from the androids...was this place really as safe as we think it is?

I could see the tribals going about their business as if they had no idea what happened in the hut. Imagine...after all I went through...I was going to be the first representative of the human race to an alien species. A 19 year old college student will be the image of the human race for another intelligent species...

The more I think about it the angrier I get at Travis the prick. He's the one whos doomed us all! Shaking my head trying to refocus on the world I began to head back to my tepee. I remember it was northeast of here, if I get lost I mind as well look for where we humans are.

Then as if he had no regard for my feelings at all I saw Travis and he walked up to me obviously feeling a hit of regret of what he did to me but I was in no mood to hear about it.

"Collin please listen-" He said trying to grab my arm before I pulled it away not even acknowledging him. I thought he was scared just like everyone else...I thought he would at least try to be the leader, but he didn't even try. He just gave up and dumped it on me like I was some trash bag or something.

"Collin Wait!" He said trying to walk up to me as I made sure never to look at him. The son of a bitch doesn't deserve to be talked too. He doesn't deserve the chance to explain himself he-!

I felt my heart pound at that last sentence.....I froze as Travis took it as a sign I was willing to listen...Not like I have a choice...H-He should at least have a chance to explain his reasons....

....U-Unlike me...

"Collin please I know your angry but you have to understand!" He told me as I met his eyes with mine. He was taller then me, stronger and faster too most likely but my stare spooked him.

"I let everyone down on the plane, the president, the ambassadors, and many of my men! I was the head of security and nearly everyone I was in charge of protecting died. Now we're here on this god forsaken planet living besides walking animals fighting against androids that are thousands of years ahead of us in firepower. I have already failed everyone, but you!...You this college student who managed to bring down over a half a dozen androids, studied to be an actual leader, and took action when everyone else was in chaos...I-....y-you remind me of the president. I thought I really couldn't have done any worse but I know if I took charge in here I would somehow find a way to make it worse!" He told me biting his tongue.

It was clear Travis took the responsibility of the president's and ambassadors safety seriously...and they all have died. I see how he feels like a failure but-

"So you just dumped it on me suddenly?" I answered him as he looked at me with clear regret of the choice.

"I-...I thought it would be for the best." He weakly answered but it only served to strengthen the fire of rage in my heart. Speaking through my teeth showing my rage at him I started speaking my mind

"For the best?...do I have to remind you that you said you looked in my folder? Did you read it at all? What happened to me? What I did?! What I felt?! How I felt?! The therapists concerns?! My fathers comments?! My mothers silence?! My forgotten friends?! The police reports?! DID YOU FUCKING READ ANYTHING IN THERE?!" I screamed at him as some of the tribals stopped to look at us. Travis backed away in shock of my outburst.

I admit...I don't look the type to do so. I was the kind of guy who sat in the corner, at his meals alone and read books in the study hall but yet you never really got the feeling of sadness on him...almost like it was my choice. B-But here....now...what he's telling me....all those years of shadowing emotions were coming out all at once.

"You thought it couldn't get any worse but you did just right now! You fucked up big time Travis!" I told him as he finally barked back.

"I didn't and stop being such a little punk! Take some responsibility for your actions you little shit!"

Wrong words....wrong time....

"Punk?......Responsibility?....You think you have any right to tell me about those things Travis?....The president is dead and so are the ambassadors thanks to your brilliant leadership. Dead Travis....no one, Not one! Fucking security officer in the history of humankind has fucked up like you have! Here is a man yet he, like a little bitch, is scared of his own shadow. Instead of proving himself he hides away letting others take credit! He would rather give up his dignity as an agent then lead the men who have sworn to die for things like this. SUCK IT UP ASSHOLE THESE MEN SIGNED UP FOR IT AND ITS SUPPOSE TO BE YOUR JOB TO LEAD THEM! But no....you ran....like a little girl you ran Travis...I bet that's what you did on the lower levels right?! Let your agents go first instead of you? Do you have any shame at all?!" I demanded as a few tears left his eyes then he looked at me as if ready to kill me but...

"YOU'RE RIGHT OKAY?!"

"Everything you just said is true! Why did you think I didn't want to be leader?! I was always a failure! I got in this position because of friendly favors nothing else!....nothing else...not because of skills....or talent....I get it...I'm a pathetic human being....I-I wanted to redeem myself in a different way other than leading..." He told me as my rage slowly disappeared.

"If someone fails at something all the time applying more pressure on them at the same thing doesn't make them better. If you constantly shove failure down their throat of course they won't get better at it....they've already decided they aren't good for it...its something I tell myself everyday. It's a motto I've taken to heart"

"My father was ashamed of me...you know?...I know you like to think that only your father hated you but your not the only one Collin...my father was embarrassed of me. I had to run away to escape the constant reminders of how useless I was to him. The public humiliation he put me through, the man who was suppose to support me no matter what!"

"I thought joining the police would make me better, for awhile I did good but then....you get caught in the game. You let a criminal walk free again after paying bail, you miss a shot and get a person badly injured....they all stack up on you before you realize it...you're not going much good here either. Then a...friend...gets an important position and asks you to be his right hand man. You think...I can't possibly fail him....but I did....The president was my childhood friend Collin." He told me as I gasped. He looked at me and now tears were streaming out of this grown man eyes. He looked at me completely helpless....there was no hiding any toughness in his eyes. He was letting everything out right there.

"I let my best friend die...I fucking failed everything and everyone....I know you don't feel any better then I do but I'm 36...There's so little time for me to make amends. I can't learn anything new...But you still have a chance Collin. You can still be someone who you are proud of. For you...you have a home to go back to, a nice little dorm room and the chance to continue studying whatever you want but me? Failures all over my records, too old to go back to college, and an emotional wreck....what's left for me to return to?...what would be the point for me to return?

"T....Travis" I said softly as the rage seemed like ancient history....the grown man collapsed to his knees as I followed with him. He sobbed into his hands as I-...I comforted him...I did what no else did for me back then...

"I'm sorry....I'm sorry I let everyone down. I'm sorry" Travis sobbed over and over again. Travis....was like a grown version of me. The idea haunted me but...what he just said...I-It plagued my mind when I was in college. What if I fail? Where could I go? What would I really have to lose after that?

Travis let out everything I've ever wanted too...There was a part of me, something inside that felt like it wanted to come out and confess too but it couldn't break through. I took a deep breath in feeling the urge to come out with my secrets but...I couldn't.

It took Travis a few moments to calm himself down and breath normally again. I stayed by him just to make sure he didn't feel like I was doing this just because...I-I did this because its what I always wanted when that moment of weakness got me. How could I be a good person if I left someone with the same pain I have. Travis took a deep breath in before speaking again.

"Listen...I-I know what I did was unfair and...and if you really think you can't do it Collin then lets go back...and I'll be in charge. I shouldn't have done that to you and I am sorry. Should we tell the chief?" He asked as my mind pondered at the thought.

Travis was willing to lead now but...look at him. Crying, miserable, and scared well the last one I'm also guilty of but...I'm starting to see he wasn't cut out for this. So this was probably going to happen from the beginning huh? I feel sorry for Travis, he's just a poor guy who only wanted to succeed at something but failed everytime. I still felt like this was just suddenly dumped on me but I-I'm less angry about it.

I guess before I was just upset that it was put on me so suddenly. I always hated that in college, you have plans or its suppose to be a day off but then out of nowhere you have to write a report or fix something that wasn't suppose to break. Now all the things I just said to Travis were coming back to haunt me. I called him a failure and a fuck up. I was like a bully at college right now...I-I promised myself I would never be like one of them but I just talked down to a poor man who's failed at the last task he promised himself to complete...its like bullying a homeless person almost.

I signed regretting what I said before pulling Travis up with me so we both stood. His eyes were still red and his face was slightly gaunt from all the tears being absorbed. He looked at me ready to get my answer but instead I smiled.

"At ease soldier...As your leader I order you to take the rest of the day off." I told him as he looked shocked.

"B-But I said I-" He was about to complain before I patted his shoulder twice before gripping onto it.

"I know and I made my choice. I am the elder and I will lead the men...I promise you Travis." I told him and he looked as if there was something still on his mind.

"T-Then I want to be the captain or your advisor! I want to prove myself without-"

"Who said it'd be easy. I'll take care of leading in the council of tribals...you just lead the agents who trust still Travis. Despite what you think of yourself Travis they still trust you as their former leader and friend Travis. Remember that...I'm here and so is everyone else." I told him as he was shaking before he hastily placed his arm on my shoulder and patted it twice then nodded.

"T-Thank you Collin. I-I swear even if it costs my life I won't let you down. I swear it!" He promised looking into my eyes as I nodded at him.

"I'll hold you to it. Take it easy for now Travis. I got things I need to do but if you need me just find me." I told him as he thanked me one last time before walking off.

I looked around to see some of the tribals looking at the drama we had but when it was over they went on their way. I sighed again before letting it all sink in....I-I'm the leader now...the elder and representative of the human race. People were going to count on me. History was in the palms of my hands. What I do here could greatly affect our future and for the rest of us back home.

I will do my best...I will do everything we need to in order to survive and live in peace with the tribals. I won't fail....I won't fail again....I'll do anything never to fail like that again.

I took a moment to think about what I needed to do. I could introduce myself to the elders but they still seem uneasy about my position in the council in the first place talking to them might get me some friends but I don't know the traditions of this place, maybe talking out of the council was bad for them.

I don't want to go straight to the chief either otherwise its going to seem like I'm hiding behind him for protection and not take any responsibility for myself.

Oh yeah...I-I just remembered what I thought we would talk about during the council but things changed. The bodies at the plane...god are they going to have to sit out there for another day? Not to mention if we ever could find them on our own. We could hope for some smoke still but if there isn't I'm risking the people I send out to get lost.

Seeing a pattern in a lot of my concerns I had to think of a solution...and quickly I did.

I need a guide. I need one of the tribals to show me around.

Hmm maybe this is a chance to go back to the chief. I mean its not like I'm asking him to be my guide I'm just asking if he would recommend anyone. I started to walk back to the human side of the village thinking deeply to myself.

The problem is would anyone volunteer to be with me? These tribals are scared of us and the person who might get chosen would feel punished rather than blessed. Instead of taking time to explain things they would give me a vague explanation and move on.

Who would trust me enough to show me around? I got to think about it, I might have missed something that could help me right now. I stood still and rubbed my forehead with the palm of my hand trying to remember anything. All I was doing at first was agitating my headache but then I heard something soft.

"You are always going to be a failure." It said and I shook my head dismissing it as words in my head.

"Ah come on! I told him I'm sorry and that I forgave I couldn't be thinking about that still." I said to myself before noticing it went on.

"You are over privileged and a child! You keep saying you'll be a hero yet you still hang on here like the leech you are!" The voice got louder as I knew it wasn't in my head. I followed it letting my mind rest a bit and focus on the source of the noise. I stepped out of a row of tepees before seeing....

The back of a cheetah I think...and in front of him was another walking animal. I can't tell who. But from what I can tell its not casual talking. The cheetah continued its rant.

"You've never belonged here and you'll never complete anything in your life. You should-"

"I think you've said enough." I said as he turned around and the person who he was talking to show himself too...H-Hey! I-Its that husky! Um Castro I think was his name.

"What are you doing furless one? This doesn't involve you!" He said back to me and I was a bit amazed to see him unafraid of my presence. The husky looked at the cheetah amazed at his insults towards me. I admit I did feel a shiver of fear if I thought I would take on this cheetah with my bare fists. I've got to remember these things still have claws and fangs....but...

"Is that how you greet an elder?" I asked trying to appear cool but inside I panicked wondering if maybe that really didn't mean much but the suddenly stop of the cheetah's low growl gave me some hope.

"What? You?! An elder?! You lie!" He accused but then the husky talked.

"N-No its true! I was in the council and my father said they would get a voice in the council." The husky defended me and the cheetah looked back at him with as much anger as he gave me. I could tell he wanted to attack me and the husky but he looked like he had to stop or else there would be bad consequences.

"I told you he's not your father you fleabag! And you!...a furless one becoming elder...you'd better watch out...because if the metal ones don't get your useless life then I will!" He threatened walking towards me before bumping my shoulder against his.

"You must make those metal ones feel very bad about themselves." I said to him not even bothering looking at him. He stopped and I heard him turn around with another low growl.

"What was that?" He asked as I looked at the husky with a smirk. The husky looked scared for me but I knew how to push people's buttons on earth...lets see if it works here.

"I mean as an elder now I'm 'very' impressed with your insults and words...you must do 'nothing else' but practice them all day. But I've wasted your 'valuable' practice time you may leave." I said turning my head slightly as the cheetah growled loud enough for me to think of an attack from behind but I heard the cheetah stormed off grumbling threats under his breath. Ahh speech class does teach you something.

You can get underneath anyone's skin by using the right words and by examining the person's habits. Something my professor told me when on the shooting range just before blowing a clay pigeon to bits I thought to myself before chuckling. Sadly I don't think the latter would be wise here.

The husky look stunned to see the cheetah run off and my slow approach to him. I made sure to look as easygoing and non-threatening as possible and it seemed to work but it wasn't exactly the best entrance to do so.

"Y-You might regret doing that. He holds very long grudges and you don't know anything about him." He told me as I looked back and shrugged.

"Well.... he looks like the honorary village douche to me." I said holding back the desire to chuckle but-

"What's a douche?" The husky asked me, as I wanted to slap myself for using words they wouldn't know. Probably shouldn't say stuff like that in front of the chief's son either.

"Um well...bad person." I said but he still looked confused.

"Your people have honorary bad people?" He asked tilting his head in confusion as I sighed thinking this wasn't off to a good start.

"No um-I was using sarcasm....oh please tell me you know what that is." I said voicing my internal thoughts but he nodded awkwardly.

"Um yeah we do. I-It was just strange to see you use it." He said as there was an awkward silence.

"...So um...thanks for getting him off my back. I-I'll be going-" He said turning around and about to walk off.

"Sure-Um no wait!" I said holding out me hand and the husky froze in place. He turned to look at me again.

"Yes?" He asked as I took a moment to think about how I would ask this.

"Y-Your name was Castro right?"

"Y-Yes Castro Talon."

"Right, um you live in this village right?"

"Yes?" He confirmed as I already knew that answer why would I ask that?! I screamed inside my head. He answered my question and looked confused by it, obviously he lived here where else would he live?!

"Listen...I'm really nervous about being elder and all and I don't know a thing about this place or its history or its traditions and-....what I'm saying is I don't know a thing about this place and I was wondering if...maybe....you could show me around? Like being my guide?" I asked before scratching the back of my head.

(Castro's view)

"W-What?" I asked making sure I heard right. This...human came out of nowhere told off Fenrien and now he's asking me for help? This creature certainly was strange.

It didn't owe me anything to get Fenrien off my back...well wait I did save his life with the metal one but-...he-he doesn't feel obligated to help me right?

"Will you guide me around the village?" He asked again. I just stood there in front of this human, looking at him as if....as if I was expecting him to laugh and say it was a joke. H-He was asking me for something?

No one asks me for anything and-...no one asked me for anything....

I thought for a time that no one asking me anything was a good thing. That I would have all the time to train and do my own things but now...after not getting a chance to prove myself so many times...I-I feel useless at times.

Fenrien was always one to make simple stories seem greater then they were but...I always feared he might be right about me...how I just leech off the people here...How I need my brother and my father to defend me whenever the village has had enough of me. E-Even this human has come to my aid now....but why him?

Father and brother have a reason to protect me, I'm family...but why did this human come to my aid?...oh right...a favor. But still he came to 'me' to ask this instead of anyone else in the village. Should I feel honored by this? What does a guide mean for a human? I hope it doesn't mean I must help him for a long time or anything. I know nothing of their ways and do not want to get into trouble which would cause the village to hate me more...I wonder even if I did become a slave to this human would the others try to save me?

The villagers talking behind my back...the elders not allowing me to take the warriors test...I am useless to everyone. Including this human.

"Why would you ask me?" I was curious about his thoughts.

"I just thought that since we know each other and how you saved my life and all before that you could help me again. I realize I might be asking too much and I apologize." He said looking down sadly.

So he feels indebted to me? I should have known. No one would do this out of the kindness of their hearts.

"There is no need to apologize but I'm afraid I cannot help you. I apologize elder." I told him once again turning around to walk away...this pain in my heart feeling familiar. I-If I tried to help him I would only mess up. Someone else would come along and he'd chose them over me.

I heard the human sigh before calling out to me again.

"Okay but would you know anyone who would? If you don't know anyone then can I ask if you think its okay that I ask your father? " He asked as I stopped in my tracks again and looked back at him with my eyes more open now.

"My father?" I asked

"Yeah if you won't do you think your father knows anyone who could?" He asked as I was puzzled before realizing...wait...if he tells father that I said no, when he knows I do nothing but train now he'll be angry that I rejected the humans offer!

No doubt father would love the chance for me to get close to the humans. All last night I heard him talk about the humans with Akia, he seemed fascinated by them but he feared that him examining humans closer would be dangerous. It would make the village look weak so who better then a son to look at them?

This human must have known I wouldn't be in the position to refuse. If I refuse father will be ashamed of me, but I'll feel humiliated traveling with this human. It will take weeks to show him everything I know and that'll put me so far behind in training for the next warrior's trials.

I'm trapped then, I have no choice. I hope these days with the human will go by quickly, if he doesn't have any questions or anything maybe it'll go by fast. Exhaling a deep breath I looked back at the human and nodded.

"Very well then. I will show you the village and the surrounding areas. Was there anywhere you wanted to go to first?" I asked ready to take him anywhere he asked. He looked surprise by my sudden change in decision.

"Really you will? Thanks! Um...hmm...I guess show me around the village is all and can I ask questions about the roles people do here?" He asked and my calm and immediate thought in my mind was

NNNNNOOOOOOOO!!!! But I said with a weak forced smile

"Okay."

We walked out of the tepees into the roads that separated each triangle shaped section of the village. I informed the human who reminded me his name Collin...odd name now that I think of it. It sounds like calling. Perhaps that's its meaning but calling to what? I've heard others have titles like Calling to the wind or the gods but his sounded like just calling...humans are weird with their names.

Anyway I informed him that the village was circular in shape. Many tribes have circular camps except for the tribes living the sides of mountains. Theirs are either semi circular or squared in shape.

"For defensive purposes correct?" He asked as I looked at him.

"How did you know?"

"Well I noticed the even ground in the wheat fields while this village is placed on a small mound with the chiefs at the highest. The scouts and gate guards have a wide view of any andro-metal one attacks. The chief also has a grand view of his village and being in the center can direct any section of the village if one is being attacked."

"Amazing." I commented his strategic knowledge. Only the most veteran warriors know about such things.

"But there is a concern I noticed." He said as I paid more attention to this concern. Would a visitor pick up on weakness those of us living here for generations haven't?

"I walked around a bit before and noticed only one gate leading into and out of the village. Aren't your people concerned that if the metal ones take control of it they have you caged in? Not that I'm saying the walls aren't too high to climb over but still." He mentioned as it once again amazed me.

"Yes that was a concern for a long time and it was only until 50 years ago I'm told that something was noticed by all of the elders and surrounding villages...the metal ones have never attacked from a gate." I informed him as it was my turn to shock him and it seemed to have worked.

"Really?! That's odd...why would the things not attack at a clear weakpoint?" He said but he looked worried for a moment that he offended me but I wasn't.

"We noticed that whenever the metal ones attack they never pursue us if we run away from the village. They burn down the village usually afterword but they never hunt the survivors."

"Wouldn't they think that the villagers would just retaliate? Counter attack I mean." He asked

"Most tribes do. Then the metal ones fight anyone who attacks. They defend their territories fiercely. Only a few heroes ever have managed to take back territory from the metal ones. Usually when metal ones take over the tribe must move to a different area or join another village."

"Interesting. How much territory do they control?" Collin asked.

"Very little, though a long time ago it was said that over half of the entire world was taken by them."

"Over half? How did your people managed to take it back?"

"We didn't...the white phoenix did." I told him and he looked at me thinking deeply about what I just said.

"The white phoenix...what we were confused for right? What happened when the white phoenix appeared?"

"No one is certain. All that we knew was that when the phoenixes rage was complete nearly all of the metal ones were destroyed and the territory they controlled was scorched by fire and turned to wasteland. Thankfully in time the gods restored the land but the metal ones here today are meant to keep us in check." I told him before biting my tongue at the last part.

"In check? In check of what?" Collin asked

"I-I'm sorry but I think that's a question for the shaman not me. I don't know how much information I can share with you." I said trying to act proud but I already told him about the village. If he did mean harm they already know how to do it. Still my lips are sealed about that part of our history.

"Oh okay...I'm sorry if I asked to much." He apologized but I nodded showing him that it wasn't too bad. It was understandable I just want to be safe is all.

We arrived at the first section closest to the gate. The gate was located on the South side of the village. I started pointing at each directions I told him. Villagers looked at me as if stunned to see one of us with the humans but I felt no threat from Collin. Oddly enough this wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

"On the SouthEast side of the village is home to the farmers and gathers of the wheat. It is their job to get us the wheat from each harvest and prepare for the next one. While they are considered the weakest of the village they are the most important. Other villages far away are said to have abused the farmers but they do not realize that if they choose to stop gathering food the whole village may fail...so they are the weakest and the strongest at the same time." Collin nodded his head understanding.

"On the SouthWest side we have the fishermen. While we do eat vegetables we also eat fish to keep a balanced meal. Eating vegetables and fruits gets boring so fish meat is considered a delicious meal. They are sadly less successful at gathering food then the farmers. It all depends on the fish and the gods blessings if we get enough fish to give to everyone if not...then it is a sad winter." I told him as he looked somewhat shaken by my last words. I admit I did say them rather low so it might have been seemed like bad things happened but not that bad.

"I-I mean the villagers just eat the same meals usually! We've never had a harvest that fails to feed everyone its just...well...I'm a big fan of fish." I admitted. It was true, salmon, trout, perch, even fish like walleyes are so good to me. If I was a strong warrior I would have nothing but fish all day everyday! But sadly I am not...

"The fisherman are stronger then the farmers for the have to lift the fish back to the village and can throw spears as good as any warrior can but they lack the bravery of the warriors. They can defend our village but only in dire needs really.

We walked north and arrived at the sections of Northwest and northeast. Along the way I couldn't help but look at Collin again. He was looking around everywhere but I kept my eyes on him. He seemed...entranced by this place...it was odd. Has he really never seen a place like this?..but then again what do I know?

Like when we did at the forest I looked at his figure...he looked slightly taller then me. He was still wearing the weird black loincloth that covered all of his body. He must feel so hot in it. Inside the tepees it's usually hot with the sun blazing down on us. Wearing that it must feel like he's inside another tepee suffering twice as much as we were.

But I noticed the water on his head...sweat...like us he sweats when in hot places. I look over his body and I notice he is not carrying that blunt staff yesterday. Perhaps he put it away during the meeting? I wonder how heavy it was? I looked hardly any bigger than a waraxe and with his arms....those arms....

I shook my head realizing I was staring at his arms for to long for simple observations. I-I must admit they did look bigger then mine. I looked at my arm and I almost wanted to do a comparison. Stepping a bit closer occasionally I noticed it was true. I had to glance of course and act nothing was wrong but his arm was indeed slightly larger then mine...or at least it was with the loincloth on.

I then began to wonder...what does he look like with the loincloth off? Would he be like us or...is there something they are hiding? Like a third arm or wings or something! Still I think it wouldn't be right to ask him to remove his loincloth right now.

Regardless of my personal observations I continued guiding him. I pointed in the direction of Northeast and told him what I could.

"Here in the Northeast section we have the artists and creative villagers. Here we make war paint for great battles with the metal ones." I told him but he asked.

"But when you came to us I noticed nearly none of you had any paint on you." He noticed as I nodded.

"You see a lot of things Collin. Yes at first we thought well...your people were the second coming of the white phoenix and there was no need to paint our warriors. When a sister tribe told us differently we had no time to paint the warriors and defend the white phoenix as soon as possible. We also paint the tepee's of each person living there. We paint major accomplishments and their duties on them. Sometimes they even paint their favorite gods or dreams they had." I said but Collin looked like...he heard all this before.

"Is something wrong?" I asked

"What oh nothing. Sorry I was thinking about something is all. So do you only work on paint here?" He asked.

"No...we also work on clay. We make baskets of clay to hold fish, weapons, and wheat but the problem with the clay is that it takes so long to make it solid. I'm not sure of the process but at the end they must heat it up near a great fire to make it solid but it takes a long time. So in the winter they cannot work on it because it would be a constant struggle and a waste of wood needed for winter. Also oddly the clay becomes more brittle during winter and sometimes break on their own. "

"Believe it or not we have clay where we are from." He told me as I was amazed to have something in common.

"R-Really? Do you make clay baskets?" I asked interested.

"Oh yes, entire schools are dedicated to arts like painting and clay making."

"What are schools?" I asked as once again he looked defeated for some reason.

"Um...basically villages solely inhabited by artists."

"Really?!" I asked thinking it would make the artists here envious of their home.

"Yep. I wish I could show you but...trust me its very interesting to see hundred of people in a giant ro-...hut...creating clay baskets and figures."

"I-I really want to see that."

"Yeah it is fun to watch artists create things." He said as my tail wagged in excitement.

Really?! Him too?! Finally! I mean a few others here enjoy artists working on things but most of the others see it as boring. I'm just glad I could have something to talk to this human with...T-That is if we ever talk again!...N-Not that I would mind.

"And Northwest is where your...people are located. It use to hold nothing but spare food and a few woodcutters but we moved it for you." I told him and he seemed saddned again.

"We're sorry."

"Don't be there wasn't much in the first place since its only the beginning of harvest and the woodcutters wanted to move to a different part of the village. We already had the tepees set up so it seemed perfect...It is okay right?" I asked and Collin nodded immediately.

"Of course! You have no idea how happy we were to live inside these walls. We thought you would never allow it or we would camp outside the walls."

"My father would never allow it...I believe he would have built new walls for you if you asked for it. He's very kind like that." I said with a smile. Father...I could only hope to be half the man you are.

"I noticed. I don't think many would have given us a chance like he did. Your father seems like an honorable man Castro."

"He is. He's always been the kind of person to listen to everyone. He even listens to the farmers, something unheard of in most villages."

As we walked passed the tepees belonging to the humans I felt that awkwardness I was expecting to feel in the first place...but it was with the humans staring instead of my people. Collin also glanced over to them feeling a bit uncomfortable with them whispering but when we passed them it seemed to make things better.

Along the way we started talking about each other.

"So um...tell me about yourself Castro." He asked as it made me jump.

"Oh um..theres not much. As you know I'm the chief's son, I'm 17. I live in the next place we're going to. I'm hoping to become a warrior." I said knowing it sounded a bit uninteresting I'm sure.

"That's all? You don't have to hide anything from me Castro. I mean I guess I understand if you still feel afraid of me but...I know this might be a bit strange but...I don't feel in danger when I'm around you Castro." He told me as...as it did shock me that he was feeling the same as I was.

"I-I know its just...its just-" I struggled but it wasn't because of lack of things it was because....because no one ever asked me about myself. I-Its strange to have this attention on me so suddenly.

"Well to be fair I guess I'll tell you about myself. I'm 19 I am currently studying at "school" dedicated to a lot of fields of study, mine being leadership. I grew up at a place called Reno. It was very hot there but I didn't mind it. We lived in places called houses and they are twice as big as your fathers hut."

"Twice as big?!" I asked amazed by the size of what this human had in his place. Was he important where he was before?!

"Well ever since I went to the "school" I got a room about the size of the tepee you showed me. Anyway I like playing games I guess, some of which I might show you. I like learning about things like this village. You might not believe it but this is a big event for our kind. We've never met anyone outside of our kind with as much intelligence as you."

"W-Wow you shared so much to me while I gave you basic stuff about me." I said ashamed of my previous comments.

"Its okay...besides I know you like art like me." He remembered, as I was surprised he would remember that. Its one thing to show interest in me but to remember what I say is another. Does he find me interesting? He'd be the first outside of father and brother.

When he talked so openly about himself it gave me some confidence to share more with him. My tail began to wag side to side with the tip brushing against my back. I had to stop it with my hand when Collin wasn't looking, it was just embarrassing that I was finding an interesting person in this human.

"Well I told you I'm training as a warrior but I've tried just about everything in the village. Right now I guess...I don't have a specific role. I've tried to be an artist but I couldn't keep up with the others. I tried being a blacksmith and a healer but I wasn't so great at it. Right now I either help fish, gather food, or train by myself." I said rather shyly wondering if he would consider that any better for personal information.

"Do you like it?" He asked and it-it made me smile that he would ask about how I felt about it rather than saying "its your role right now"

"Its...something to do for now. I really want to be a warrior and become strong like my father and brother. Here being a warrior is a great honor, it gives you the respect I don't get-" I said before biting my tongue. Oh curses did I say that out loud?! Of course he's going to wonder-

"You seem respectable to me. You saved my life after all" He said as-...I stopped and had to look at him. E-Either he's being overly nice or-or he really means that. I-I'm guiding though so it must be just a compliment you give out of tradition. T-There's no way he really means that....right?

"T-Thanks um....here it looks like we arrived to the east side of the village." I said quickly wanting to change the topic. My tail sadly didn't change as quick as my words.

"Here are the healers, herb gatherers, and blacksmiths. The shaman Akia also lives here as well as I." I said with a soft smile that didn't seem as forced as before.

"So we can chat more if you wanted right? Since we live so close." Collin said and I immediately answered.

"Yes! I-....I mean if you wanted that is." I said wanting to bite my tongue off for answering like a pup. I must seem so easy to manipulate, I probably am a child to him.

"I'd like that." He answered back looking at me and-and why was it so hard to look at him right now?! I feel like I should look at him in the eyes but on instinct my head turns away.

He and I didn't talk when going to the last place. My footsteps had less power with each step, at first I wanted to show how proud and strong I was to this human but now its like I could walk on air! W-Why is he being so kind to me?! I-It just has to be because I'm his guide.

B-But what if its not? What if he really does see something interesting in me? How is it that this human who I only met yesterday has treated me kinder then most of the others in the village? C-Could this be a-a friendship between the humans and us?

Now that I look at him it-its not like he's "too" different from us. They walk on two legs, they have two arms, hands, a head. They don't look any stronger then us, well except for that one Alexander but then again we have Boris. The only things I can find different are the amount of fur on him and his very short muzzle.

But that's what I can tell with that black loincloth on. I wonder what's beneath it? What would he look like? Maybe they would have fur like us...maybe they would look just like us with muscles...um-for information about his kind is all! I-Its not like I'm hiding much while this human has his entire body covered. He can see nearly all of me!...I-I wonder what he thinks?

(Collin's view)

Interesting layout of their shelter, self efficient, self governing, and some history with the androids. If there are so many villages out there they must have enough to create an army against the androids.

I was interested about the white phoenix story. Is there such a powerful beast on this planet? Imagine a creature capable of destroying half a planet with fire. I have no idea how big this planet is compared to earth but even it it's the size of Mercury or the moon it would be a terror to the human race if it saw us as enemies.

I'm also surprise that Castro is still traveling with me. I thought he would run off after only a few minutes but it must have been at least a good 45 minutes and we're still talking, he even seems interesting talking again sometime. But I'm feeling something strange with him...he seems....sad all the time.

You would think being a chief's son, basically a prince in our world it would make you popular. You would be praised wherever you went and girls would swarm around you...but I saw him being bullied and by the looks of it the cheetah was a common villager.

Not to mention Castro has this soft and shy personality on him. You'd think that a chief's son would feel boastful and would show off his strength's but...he's just walking next to me awkwardly. Maybe he feels uncomfortable around me still. I was trying to make him feel comfortable by giving him compliments so that he would trust me more but I guess its not working.

We walked to the last section of the village and I definitely noticed something different from this one to the others. Weapons were scattered about, the more serious looking men, and the tepees were painting with many pictures of warriors attacking gray human shaped creatures with red eyes...the androids.

"And this is the warriors section. Here all of the warriors, scouts and elders plan in case of a metal one attack. They live here with their families, they get the best food, the best tepees, and the most respect around the village outside of the elders, my father, and the shaman.

"So your people value warriors highly then?" I asked as Castro nodded.

"Yes the metal ones have thick skin, sharp blades, and are incredibly fast. Anyone who can fight and kill an android is worthy of respect here." He told me as I nodded back.

"And the more androids you kill...you may become a hero." I said hoping I got it right.

"That's right. If you have proven 100 metal one kills you are a hero in here and the neighboring villages. Being a hero is rare, we think the metal ones must also keep count of dangerous warriors because many do not live past the first couple of years when they are declared a hero." Castro informed me and...it made me shiver.

They kill the ones who are a threat to them. We're talking about tribals with swords and spears...what would the metal ones think about us? I'm sure if they could transmit data to other androids we must seem like the real threat to them right now. We have guns and the ammunition to create a small army. Unlike the tribals we don't have to be right up to them in order to kill them. I'm sure the androids must consider us the immediate threat.

I can only hope that their numbers are so small that they might not consider attacking. Maybe since we survived the crash we are already in a position to wipe them out and they are preparing their defenses. I don't think we're in any shape to start a fight though. We have to blend in with the tribals before we consider attack the androids...not to mention...if we get rescued before that.

Could we really get their hopes up with better weapons only to leave them like nothing? Unless that burning phoenix came back they wouldn't be able to kill all the androids with these kinds of weapons.

But I'm sure discovering a friendly alien species would be too hard to ignore! We would be tempted to move some people here and hopefully set up peace councils. Blend into their society and ours. We don't know how our first encounter with alien species will go...I wonder if societies will blend like the tribals will adapt cars and guns but still keep a tribal organization of things.

Those are concerns for a what if situation right now we need to think about whats happening here right now.

"Would you like to be a hero Castro?" I asked as he seemed flattered by the question.

"Me-um....yes I would but I've only gotten one kill so far...one I wasn't able to prove." He said hanging his head...one kill?....does he mean-?

"That andr-metal one that attacked me? That was your first kill?" I asked as he nodded.

"But I didn't take its head back. None of the warriors said they clearly saw me throw the spear...basically I know I've killed one but no one will believe me..." He said with a whimper like any dog would give. I felt bad for him....I wonder.

"Tell me....would an elder's presence count as a reliable witness?" I asked as Castro shot back an answer.

"It would but no elder was present! Not even my brother could convince them that I killed it." He ended with another whimper but I smiled wondering how he would react to what I was going to say.

"Really?...because this elder saw you clearly throw the spear and was only feet away from taking its head." I said with a smile as he looked confused at first.

"You but.....wait..." He said before realizing...I was an elder, he needed my word and I figured giving a chief's son the respect he needed to be a kind gift. Castro looked dumbfounded by the idea that I would defend his claim.

"You?...you would...tell them that I killed a metal one? Y-You'd do that for me? I-I...wait! What would I have to do in return?" He looked ready for a demand as if I was blackmailing him or something...true I could try but I don't want to go into blackmailing right away on my first day here.

"Nothing. I'll do this for you for thanks. You saved me and my people after all." I said with a smile and Castro looked away and I thought maybe I had said something bad but I heard...more whimpering then what I could have sworn was....a sob? Was he crying? I hope I didn't say anything bad or offensive to him. I reached my hand out to touch his shoulder but as soon as I touched his fur he turned around immediately and I saw....him crying.

"T-Thank you Collin. I-I need to go now! I hope you can find your way home bye!" He quickly said before running off.

"W-We'll meet again tomorrow right?!" I called for him but he was already out of earshot. Internally I punched myself thinking I was stupid to give him something like that. For all I know the tribals may take favors seriously and asking nothing might offend them by saying they are capable of nothing.

I sighed and ran my fingers through my hair before looking around...I messed up...I must have messed up. I was suddenly reminded of the doll in my suit pocket and all it did was remind me of how bad I was talking with these tribals...geez I-I must seem like some sort of devil to them.

(Castro's view)

I ran back to my tepee, I didn't care if anyone was looking or wondering where I was going all I knew is that I needed to go to my bed! I can't believe I cried in front of him and-and that HE'S DOING SUCH A THING TO ME! I bit my teeth against each other but no growl came all I cared about was getting home.

I finally arrived to my tepee and pushed the leather door open before collapsing to my knees and backing away to my bed looking at the door as if I expected him to follow me all the way here...

I-I can't believe it....he's going to help me claim my first kill and he's asked nothing in return. A few tears came out as I knew this was real...this was really happening. Collin said that with the straightest face I could tell...He's serious...

He....he's going to help me....when no one else was....all of the people who I've lived beside for years...and this total stranger is going to help me more then the others ever have.

I was...in complete disarray in my mind. Collin this human was going to show me more kindness then all of the other elders and warriors ever showed me in my entire life...m-maybe...

I feared he would use it against me but...he's doing it out of kindness...are all humans this kind? How many others from other villages go through what I do?...and if there's more humans like Collin c-could they be helped? Collin really doesn't owe me anything. He's an elder he could deny the whole thing but he's going to help me give a name for myself...I-I'll no longer be Castro Talon "talon of a flea" I might really make a name for myself!

He has no idea how this might change my life! I might be given more credit, my opinions will mean more, the warrior trials might be held for me,!...I-I might even get a mate.

In those few words he could have turned my whole life around for the better....thats....thats what a friend does.

A-A friend? Collin...a human....a friend?...I-I just met him yesterday. I know next to nothing about his life, his ways....and he's going to help me when he knows nothing about us.

I cradled my face into my knees whispering softly...wishing I had said this calmly in front of him.

"Thank you.....Thank you..."

I stayed in my tepee the rest of the day. I-If he does consider me a friend and if he's an elder that would be a great thing for me. Being friends with elders is a long and difficult road but Collin could be my friend! I wonder if the others will take his word, they must if they consider him an elder and a witness to my kill!

I wonder what I'll do after that. I'll probably have to train some more before the next warrior trials but at least they'll give me a chance this time.

When night came I fell straight asleep thinking about what tomorrow would bring. I promised to be Collin's guide but...now I am haunted thinking I left him too suddenly, what if he takes that as a bad sign. He might look for someone else and I'll miss my chance to befriend an elder.

These humans....its weird...how they came here in a giant burning bird...carry these weird sticks, and almost immediately they have joined our tribe. Its all happening too fast. I wonder if this is Azah will to learn from these vistors? What I don't understand is why are there so few of them?

If they are from the gods and here to stop the metal ones how could they do it? They have blunt spears and few numbers...Azah's will is far to complex for me to understand. Perhaps I should ask Collin what those staffs mean. Could they be symbols of power?

I am also interested in those armored turtles in the middle of the human section. We look at them in astonishment but never once do we see them move like when they entered. They are not like turtles because we have no seen them eat...these humans have strange items I would love to explore!

I-...I must make sure I talk with Collin again! I'll wake up early and go to his tepee and wait for him if I must. If they are not here to harm us then they must be allies.

I yawned as I began to lie down on my bed.....

"Great......allies..." I said as I let the night cover my eyesight.

A dream from Merna appeared the goddess of night, moon, and dreams. In it I saw....a waterfall with a pool of water below it....it was night....and the pool was shining from the full moon out....

There's someone there....they are looking into the water but....it looks like they are waiting for someone. I thought I was dreaming in an outsider view but...I felt myself step forward and came into the clearing where this other person was.

The other turned around to face me and I could somewhat remember his voice.

"Castro? Why did you call me out here?" He asked before I heard my name called again.

"Castro........"

"Castro?.........."

"Castro wake up!" A sudden voice called as I did and I found myself still on my bed. The dream was quickly gone. I was saddened that I didn't really understand its meaning. I guess all I can assume was that it was going to be an important place for me.

Anyway as I looked up I saw my brother Zio pushing me awake and I thought it was just him being the demon he was again annoying my sleep until-

"Castro I'm so proud of you!" Zio said as my eyes protested to look at him and surrender to the pleasures of bed again.

"Huh? What are you talking about Zio?" I asked sitting up and rubbing my eyes before yawning.

"Your first metal one kill! I knew you had to be the one but they wouldn't take my word for it! That human-um what's his name. um you know the elder one now." He said as my heart pounded. I wanted to say I was dreaming again but I looked at my brother with wide eyes.

"Y-You mean Collin?...d-did he?" I asked wondering if-if Collin really had kept to his word.

"Yes brother! At the morning council one of the first things he mentioned was your first metal one kill! You're officially a man now!" Zio said before giving me a hug and-...and I was left paralyzed.

Collin.....did keep to his word....I-I'm a man now! I-I killed my first metal one and I'm considered a man now! Oh happy day! My tail started wagging uncontrollably as I wanted to parade around the village about my kill! But something tells me parading in the nude wasn't going to go well with the women or the children.

Wait a moment....morning council?...oh no....

"Um Zio....d-did you say morning council?" I asked as Zio nodded before he breath awkwardly now.

"Y-Yeah sorry brother you over slept again. You must really learn to wake up earlier." He said scratching the back of his head.

Oh curses! How could I sleep at that glorious moment?! I would have loved to see the elder's faces as they recognized me as a capable man. Father and brother were only thinking "overslept again" but I bet he must be so proud of me too!

"Wait...what about Collin?! Where is he? I must thank him so much for this!" I said happily but....

The frown coming from my brother stopped my tail almost immediately. The joy in my heart was replaced with worry and fear.

"Brother? Whats wrong?" I asked as I worried that maybe Collin was hurt because of me. A-As much as I wanted the claim to become real I-It would never be worth someone's health!

"Collin....and the humans...are.....are"

"W-What? What?!" I asked fearing they were being exiled or something.

"Putting their dead to rest." He answered as...as I didn't know what to think about that answer. I wanted to say I was relieved but...I don't know how seriously the humans take honoring their dead.

"W-Where are they now?" I asked

"In a clearing in the forest...do...do you want to see them?" He asked as I wondered if this was the best time to intrude. They said they had lost some people before but I had no idea how many. It would feel wrong to interrupt them but I feel like I should give Collin my thanks. I looked back up at Zio and nodded.

"Yes I would like to see them."

I put on my next loincloth and headed out with my brother to the forest. I noticed a few others wanted to see how the humans treated their dead. We heard the whispers of cannibalism and horrible things but they couldn't be true...Collin just....doesn't seem the type to take part in that. I know I've only known him for a day but to help me claim a kill and to talk to me more then anyone in the village does for a year it-it just doesn't seem right to think he might be eating the dead or something.

It wouldn't make sense...except...there have been rumors that the metal ones...take back their dead for something, for what we don't know but is it possible that the humans-NO! I can't think badly of them when he's just helped me. I'll see for me own eyes what they do.

My brother led me through the forest. I knew this area of the woods so all it was for me was just remembering where to go if the humans ever went here again. After a few minutes we came to a clearing and we saw the humans....doing something.

I thought the humans didn't have spear but once again we saw a number of them grabbing this big blunt spear heads and stabbing them into the ground. When they pulled up they took a bunch of soil with it and put it over in a pile.

In a different area I saw a bunch of humans cutting down branched and making these sticks forming a "t" for some reason. There were these holes in the ground and I saw humans putting...oh...

I-I think I see now. These things they were carrying were covered in blankets and placed inside these holes. When they were placed into the hole some of the others started putting the dirt back in.

I approached closer before noticing nearly every human from the village was here helping burying their dead. It...wasn't as bad as I thought. Tribes in the south do the same thing. To us it was strange but understandable. Though I don't remember the tribes ever saying they place these "t" over their burial place.

I was allowed to approach close enough to one of the graves before noticing a...something on the t's themselves...it was rectangular...somewhat shiny...I saw a face along with a name, "day of birth", and something saying "donor" for some reason...on top I noticed the strange words...Drivers license...is it their way to identify the dead?

I saw a lot of these t's in the ground...I had a sudden chill when looking at the number of humans alive and the numbers of t's in the ground. I-It almost looks like they lost have of their number. My brother, myself, and the other villagers who came to watch looked at the humans treat their dead with respect that we were both sadden yet somewhat relieved for.

We even saw a few humans break down in front of the t's and crying loudly. I wonder....how many of these humans knew each other. What friendships and mateships were ended by the metal ones. It made me angry at the metal ones. If one was nearby I felt like I could rip it apart with my bare claws but...all I could do was look at the humans mourn their comrades.

Finally we saw them putting a big pile of wood together. On a large bed came another figure wrapped in blankets. I was wondering why they were giving that one a different burial until somewhat approached me from behind and joined in on watching the humans.

"Their leader." A voice said as I saw Akia next to me. A-At first I thought she meant Collin but...then I remember it was the other leader...the one who came in badly injured.

"One of them told me he wanted to be...cremated...which means burned until ash to them." Akia said as I looked at the humans place their dead leader on top of the wood and then we saw 3 of them holding torches then set them into the wood...

We saw the figure consumed by the flames as the humans looked at their leader being burned. It was haunting to think what that would be like...to be burned...my body would...serve no purpose...I would be nothing but ash....I-I would prefer. T-This is their way and we have ours. I shouldn't be troubled by it too much.

Most of the humans left when the fire died down. But I saw someone near one of the t's and was on his knees. Most of the villagers left with the humans but my brother and I stayed. I went closer to the human and I saw who it was....Collin...

I wanted to say hello but it would seem rude. Collin was completely focused on the t and looking at the shiny rectangle. I think he didn't see me coming closer to him. I walked up right behind him seeing the name on the t....

.....Paige Everson....

W-Was....Was this someone who Collin knew? Paige...that sounds like a girl name...oh no..w-was it his mate? I felt something like a punch to my heart as I thought about....how much has he suffered through? He looks young but old enough to have a mate and to lose her like this and so fast it-it must be torture to his heart.

I didn't know if I wanted to cry for him or go on a rampage against the metal ones. To attack people who have done nothing to them! How could the gods let them do this for so long?! I-Its just unfair especially for them! Just because I have to obey the gods will doesn't mean I have to like it.

I slowly raised my slightly shaking hand and placed it on Collin's shoulder. He didn't even jump or seem to acknowledge it at all. I only heard him sigh softly.

"Is....is it someone you knew?" I asked ready to apologize for any rudeness it might create.

Collin didn't answer for awhile before saying.

"Yeah...she was...a friend." He answered. I wondered if he meant like a 'friend' friend or a friend mate.

"I'm sorry Collin." I said to him as he stood up.

"Its me who should be sorry....I shouldn't have left you." He said to the ground where it held his 'friend'

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah I just needed to say goodbye was all. She's in a better place...away from this." He said lowly and mentioning his situation. He must have thought she wouldn't be okay in this environment.

There was a pause between us. I didn't know what to say to him. I felt like I just rushed into this without thinking. I should have thought this through more I knew I made a mistake. Now he's probably going to think I'm this savage-

"Hey um...can you show me around the woods? I-I know yesterday I must have scared you but I really did enjoy our talk." He said out of nowhere and I caught me off guard. H-He's asking me to guide him again? Even though 'I' was the one who ran.

"Yes I would like that. Do you want to go now or-?"

"No lets go now. And thank you Castro. I really mean it." He said as it-It made me smile for some reason.

(Collin's view)

I don't know how to feel right now...I-I've made my peace with Paige and Travis. I saw him crying softly as we cremated the president. He's been through enough, I can't ask any more of him right now. And Paige...I had to help on the plane. I left her in the safest room in the whole plane...what more could I do?

She wouldn't be the vengeful type...I know her you would literally have to be mean right in her face for weeks before she got mad at you. Maybe helping those who are alive right now is the best way to get rid of my guilt.

I walked with Castro for a while. We didn't talk at first but I didn't mind...I was taking in the sights now. Before at the plane I looked at these forests with fear, thinking there could be a giant monster that could eat me whole. Now...its...majestic. I stopped for a moment and touched the bark on the tree.

The trees here must be hundreds of years old....the bark feels so uncorrupted. At Harvard there were a bunch of field trips to forests to demonstrate wildlife but the bark was always splintered and ugly looking...but here...its untouched.

The leaves were bright green and swaying with the wind. To my amazement I could hear...birds. I'm not an expert on bird calls but they sound similar to the ones on Earth. Castro was walking through these trees as if there was no threat....is that possible? Is there really nothing to fear in this forest?

"Hey um" Castro said out of nowhere and I looked at him wondering what he wanted.

"D-...Did you really tell the elders about the metal one I killed?" He asked as I blinked my eyes a bit surprised that's what he wanted.

"Um yeah I said I would. I keep my promises...is that bad?" I asked wondering if maybe it was dishonorable to do so.

"NO! I mean I can't believe you'd do that for me. Its just I hardly know you and its considered a really big favor here to do something like that." He told me as I smiled.

"Well like I keep saying you saved my life and you are guiding me around." I answered but it seemed to bother him.

"But 'why' me?" He asked as it confused me.

"Why?"

"You could have asked anyone. There are a many smarter and wiser people you could have asked. Since your elder you could ask and the others would be honored bound to help you." He told me as...yeah I guess but-

"I figured but..."

"But what?"

"Well...I just trust you is all. You seem very nice, I know you've been uncomfortable around me but...I was hoping by making you feel better that you'd be a bit more comfortable me...I meant all those compliments before but if its making things worse then I apologize." I said as once again he looked distraught with something. Dammit I knew it was me.

"I'm sorry Castro I've never meant to dishonor you its just where I come from its-"

"T-Thank you...Thank you so much you've-you've treated me so nicely yet you hardly know me. I-It's me who's acting weird don't be concerned. I-I have to admit...I-I like being around you too. C-Can we be friends?" He asked as he gave me...puppy eyes...literally.

Looking at him...his laid back ears. His curly tail, those puppy eyes staring right at me. It made me feel sorry for him. Was he really alone in the village? Wouldn't the chief's son be popular to them?

But you know...I don't mind him. He feels unconfident of himself like...I was...but maybe being friends would make that pain go away for both of us. Friendships between our species is inevitable.

Still...I've never been friends with anyone...Paige was just a colleague who shared a lot of classes with me. It feels like a lot of pressure to hang out, remember special days for them, keep up contact even when you just want a day to yourself.

But...now there's time. There's no TV here, no cell phones, no Internet. Haha I bet most of the kids at home would think this place is hell. I don't mind I go online as much as the next guy but there's something nice about the quiet of the library or reading a book under a tree. Technology is nice but it's not everything.

With a little water entering my eyes but I held back the desire to feel sad as I said to him with a smile.

"Sure we can be friends."

That got his tail wagging like crazy. God it was so cute actually to see a dog, even a walking dog, act like a puppy on earth. There was a lot more enthusiasm with his steps as he started talking like crazy about the forest.

"These woods were said to be created by a spirit that wanted to give these wheat fields more life to them. Birds from across the world are said to gather here. Its really something to just sit back and listen to them all. Oh we're here!" He said out of nowhere in the middle of his non stop talking, I wasn't complaining it was funny to hear him talk so easily now.

We arrived at a large stream that cut through the forest. The stream went on as far as the eye could see. I noticed it went down a few hills and that the water was...remarkably clear. Stream water back on earth is filthy but here...its perfect. I leaned down and took a bit of it into my hand...not a single spec of-of anything!

I drank it and it was fresh, cold. I stood back up and looked back at Castro. He smiled and told me all about it.

"This stream goes to a big river. The water never gets dirty its said. I think this would be a perfect place for the humans to clean their um...loincloths." He said as I just realized...oh yeah...I've been wearing the same suit since the crash.

Well I've always noticed the smell but what exactly worries me is...how do I do the laundry with nothing but water? Maybe technology does have its uses.

"Um yeah sorry I'll be sure to wash them later today...is it okay if we go back to the village?" I asked as Castro didn't seem to mind.

"Sure what should we talk about along the way?" He asked happily as we left...a human with a suit and a husky in a loincloth...walking through the woods...opposites...yet friends.

.......From the bushes....something watches us leave

We arrived to the village after he told me all about the harvests he helped with. Sounds like a lot of wheat, not sure if I'm going to enjoy lifting all those baskets constantly.

Augh oh well we're safe here and that's all we ever wanted.

"Collin?"

"Yes Castro?"

"Thanks for being my friend..." He said out of nowhere.

"Of course. You've really opened up to me. Its kinda funny considering where we were only a day ago." I said as he chuckled and looked away embarrassed.

"Yeah I was afraid of you but you've been so nice to me. I'm glad to have known you. So what do you plan to do after this?"

"Hmm...I'll probably have to explore around some more...I've got to get ready to announce to my people about being leader. I manage to convince Travis to hold it off until tomorrow but...Yeah I'm not so excited for it. What are you doing?" I asked as he also thought.

"Probably go out and train some more. I might talk with father and brother the same as every day for me....You said you are worried about a speech to your people?" He asked as I sighed dwelling on it again.

"Yeah...I guess you noticed that my people don't let people at my age lead usually. I'm not worried about what I'm going to say I'm worried about how they might react. I want them to be hopeful but...being attacked by-the metal ones- losing our former leader and living here with you, things we've never seen before, it just spells disaster and its up to me to keep everyone calm."

"I guess I understand Collin but...look what you've done for me. You have my word I'll help you with anything. My father isn't the kind of man to take advantage of anyone at a disadvantage. You saw it when you were first-um chosen to be elder. You've been fair and kind to everyone I know you'll be a good leader." He said as I appreciated his words but suddenly I was reminded something in my pocket.

"Well it isn't just my people's emotions I'm worried about." I said softly before pulling out the doll I had kept. The little wolf's girl doll. I couldn't find her not that I would think she'd want to be found.

"What's that?" Castro asked.

"It was a little wolf girl's doll. She dropped it and when I tried to return it she...she looked at me like I was some kind of monster. I wish I knew who she was. I would have returned it or gave it to someone else but everyone was avoiding me...I'm worried that your people will look at mine as monsters." I said as Castro suddenly patted my back with his hand. I felt his rough hand paws rubbed against my back before patting it several times.

"It might take time but they'll see how kind you can be Collin. For now...keep the doll and soon she'll ask you for it like there were no differences between us at all." He said with a smile as I placed back in my suit pocket and nodded.

"Yeah you're right. Once they see how we can be trusted your people will feel safe again."

"We've always been safe Collin. You have my word nothing will go-"

Suddenly a loud shriek echoed across the village before we heard something like a forest being broken. Splinters and big chunks of wood we flown across the village as I pushed Castro over and covered him on instinct to dodge a large sharp piece of wood blown towards us.

The sharp end of the wood piece landed feet away from us before we heard...explosions...familiar explosions...before screaming. I rolled off of Castro and we both stood up to see...a fire in the distance and a huge hole where the wall was once complete. Both of our eyes were open wide and our jaws dropped.

Villagers started screaming and running away from the hole as I tried to make out what they were saying in the chaos....and what they said chilled my bones.

"Gods save us!"

"There must be a hundred metal ones attack from the west!"

"They broke the wall!"

"RUN! RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!" People screamed as Castro snapped into action.

"Collin! The metal ones are here! W-We need to defend the village!" He told me as I shook my head trying to get back to reality.

"Y-Yeah but I have no weapons...I-I need to get back to my people! We'll help fight don't worry!" I told him as Castro nodded.

"I need to arm myself too...good luck Collin." He told me grabbing onto my arm as we clenched onto each others arms like-like warriors do in the movies but...this is real...its not just them being attacked right now. "We're" being attacked right now...humans and the tribals. We released each other and went our own ways.

I passed by tribals who looked hysterical and panicked. Some were wounded from the spraying wood. One had a swollen face as a piece of wood hit him in the forehead. Others were carrying him away. Its bad because if I remembered right West was where all the healers tepees were.

Worse was that I was running straight into the thick of it. I could hear the sound of androids firing their lasers and the stomping of their feet. Fuckers are attacking us now when we were about to begin living together...there was hell to pay!

I ran as much as I could before seeing the hole for my very eyes...it must be a least 15 feet wide....and I see androids coming in one by one. I hid behind some tepees but I knew they wouldn't stop a shot from the androids.

My heart was pounding against my chest and everything seemed to be telling me to run away with all the others but I didn't...Either its my legs that were frozen or...or its my promise to Castro to help fight.

I'm scared...I know I am but I'm not a coward. I hid alongside each tepee avoiding any android I saw. I saw some of them cutting down the tepees as if looking for something. The tribals screams now were few but some were still around.

I kept hiding until I saw my tepee in sight but still far away...but...fuck wait!

"Goddammit!" I cursed forgetting I didn't have a weapon there!

"Fuck I should have thought this through more!" I cursed myself before hearing something.

I hoped it was someone coming to help me but when I turned around I saw.....

Then...literally face to face....I was looking into red...I thought it was blood but...it was a cannon...the android's lazer cannon. I wish I could describe what I felt looking into the cold blood creatures weapon...any second I was expecting it to fire. Fire right into my face...I was haunted by the images I had seen on the plane...grown strong men with gapping burned holes in their chests....a-and m face was going to be that...there was no way someone was going to be able to identity me by facial...

Beyond the cannon I could see the androids red eyes looking right at me...unfeeling, emotionless...it was going to kill me like I was nothing. I was going to die...on an alien planet....

All my failures...all of my mistakes were going to be judged in the after life...I-I was going to die...I was going to die! I screamed in my mind as I closed my eyes awaiting to feel a sharp pain then nothing after that....

But....nothing came. I heard the android lower its weapon and-and it took every sap of energy to look at it again thinking it was just switching to its blade but...

It was still looking at me but it seemed like it was...examining me for some reason...then...as if nothing happened....it moved away from me. It walked away like it had seen me a million times before.

It heard its footsteps crashing against the ground away from me as-as....I collapsed to the ground. My legs mind as well have been chopped off...I couldn't feel them...I couldn't feel anything before I remembered to breath again.

A cold sweat ran down my face as I took in so much air I couldn't breath it all out. I was in shock...I-I was right there....T-The android had me right in its sights...I was defenseless but....it didn't kill me. I-I'm still alive....r-right?

I punched my stomach as if expecting myself to wake up from a dream but I didn't I felt my punch...T-This was real...I-I wasn't dead! B-But why?! I-I should be dead but I'm not...Why wouldn't it kill me? I-It killed defenseless people on the plane before so why...why didn't it do it now?

I didn't have the metal balance to think about why I was still alive...I just sat there thanking god that I wasn't dead. I don't know how long I sat there, it must have only been a few moments before I heard a scream coming form somewhere.

I snapped back into action but my legs were still woozy from recovery from shock.

I had to use the tepees to help me along before I could stand on my own. The screaming continued until I saw 3 figures about 30 feet away. I hide behind a tepee again but peeked out at them.

I saw a little wolf girl huddling down with an android closing in...standing in between them both was a tiger female holding a spear and she looked ready to defend the girl to the death.

Come on help them Collin move! My mind screamed but my body wouldn't listen. Come on!

"Stay away from her you abomination! If you so much as lay a finger on her I'll cut you to shreds!" The female tiger threatened as-as the voice sounded familiar!

I looked again seeing the tiger female again but....wait...I-Is that Iona?! I remember her face well. She looked just as scared as I was but she was standing her ground for the little wolf girl...hey...the wolf girl...that's her! I'm sure of it!

"Just you wait until Kerak comes here! He's going to break you all over the place!" She threatened the android but it was incapable of feeling anything. Come on Collin do something! Tackle it or find something!

I looked at the ground for a splint second before hearing.

"Iona!" A cry came as another tiger came out of nowhere and he held a machete. The man looked ready to fight. He came from the side of the android but it looked right at him with its red eyes before...

it let out a loud metallic roar that sent chills up my spine. I wanted to collapse to the ground again but I held onto the tepee again. It appears I wasn't the only one who was shaken by the roar. I saw the male tiger drop his weapon and abandon the 2 women to their fate. Iona looked horrified and betrayed as she cried out.

"Kerak!...H-How could you?!" She screamed as she looked at the android only feet away from them now. She lunged forward with the spear but the android quickly parried and cut the spear in half. Iona held only a broken stick right now but she threw that at it but it didn't anything. She covered the cowering wolf girl with her body but....but I knew that was only going to buy the girl only a few seconds of life....

A woman....defending a child....even if it means her death. She's going to protect her...something snapped in my mind....the wolf girl looked up and it was like...seeing myself again....on that horrible day...

I then noticed something near my feet....a pistol...a big pistol

"Desert Eagle" I whispered before feeling...my heart calmed immediately as I reached down and picked it up. An agent must have dropped it. It was fully loaded and ready...like I was...

I don't know what that android was thinking when it spared me but it showed no mercy to us on the plane...and I sure as hell wasn't about to show any right now! I stepped out of my hiding place and pointed my gun right at the android as its blade was out ready to cut down Iona. She and the wolf girl screamed before-

A gunshot echoed.

Like on the plane I saw a bullet traveling slowly before meeting its mark in the androids head. So powerful was the bullet that the android was taken off its feet and it feel over as if hit by a wrecking ball. The side of its head having a huge hole in it.

It crashed to the ground with a loud thud as I ran towards them. My hand slightly ached from the powerful shot but there was no time for that.

"Are you alright?!" I asked from a distance before seeing another android coming towards them. I pointed my gun at it and fired 2 shots leaving two holes in its upper chest and throat and it flew backwards and never moved again.

"Get to cover! GET OUT OF HERE! GET TO SAFETY!!" I screamed at them as Iona looked shocked to see 2 androids killed like that. She picked up the wolf girl and carried her on her back before the wolf girl screamed again pointing at something.

I reacted immediately catching only a glimpsed of an android pointing its cannon at them but I had the quicker draw and fire. I fired once into its head before it collapsed to the ground and twitched before dying.

"Get out of here now! I'll cover you!" I screamed as Iona nodded and ran.

I had to get a better weapon. I only had 3 bullets now! I wonder if the armored turtle-I mean Humvee has anything! The girls ran fast and got away quickly as I ran towards where the Humvees last were. One of them was missing but one of them was still here. I ran up to it and opened its trunk seeing....wow...

Tons of firepower, pistols, shotguns, assault rifles, and many others including ammunition. I had no idea what would work best but it didn't matter. I picked up the first thing that was easy to reach...an AK 47. I took some clips of ammo and stuffed my pockets with as much as they could carry. I picked up some desert eagle ammo as well before I heard someone whisper.

"SSPHSS! Collin!" Someone called and I pointed my gun at the source of the noise before seeing it was Travis!

"Travis! Thank god! Get some weapons and help defend the village!" I said getting ready to hand out some weapons to him. I noticed a few other agents behind him but when they came up to me and I held up a M16 towards Travis he grabbed my other arm.

"The androids aren't attacking humans! I don't know why but-"

"Who the fuck cares?! Grab a gun and kill any android you see!!!" I demanded holding the weapon up to him again.

"B-But Collin-!"

"OBEY YOUR FUCKING LEADER!" I told him not in the mood...my face no doubt bringing memories of when he failed the president before. He nodded and took the M16.

"Get ready men! Take whatever you want but make sure there's enough to go around!" Travis started barking orders as I looked at the hole in the distance again and thought about the counter attack.

"We have to stop them from coming into the hole. Form a line of fire and make sure not a single one of them enters!" I said my plan as everyone shouted.

"HHHOAAH!"

I and 3 others were already armed and ran towards the hole. When we got to the hole we saw maybe a dozen of them already coming into the village....I think its about time to 'kindly ask them to leave'...

The agents and I opened fired immediately. Our gunshots echoing across the village but we didn't let up. I hardly bothered to aim as more and more agents joined in. The androids dropped like flies as our bullets littered their shining bodies with holes.

All of us including myself screaming curses and war cries as we fired everything we had at them. After awhile all I could hear was the beating of each shotgun, assault rifle, pistol, submachine gun, and sniper rifle unloading their bullets into the androids.

We obviously didn't care for aiming as I saw the wall being littered with as much bullet marks as the androids. A few of the tepee's were started to disappear as we unloaded everything we had at them. We wanted revenge for Flight Phoenix, we wanted to see these androids suffer for what they did to us.

Alexander cam out of nowhere and like a showoff started firing his weapon of choice...a light machinegun. He must have cut down at least half a dozen of the androids. The only time I took breaks from firing was reloading. The androids kept coming despite seeing dozens of them on the ground as if it was undeterred from it objectives.

Then the big guns came in. From behind we saw one of the Humvees with a gunner at the 50 calibur fire into the wall. We fired so much there was a thick smoke coming from us. I coughed a bit but kept firing with the others. Eventually I didn't want to waste time reloading and pulled out the desert eagle just to keep the pressure on them.

Unknown to us....the tribals looked at us...seeing our strange sticks blast this fire repeatedly as the androids were being blown apart. It took awhile before we heard someone shouting.

"Hold your fire! HOLD YOUR FIRE!" He said and we did....there was a silence...an eerie silence.....at our feet hundreds maybe thousands of bullet casing laid out our feet. The smoke was as thick as the fire was on the wall but it seemed like the fire on the wall was dying out.

We all kept out weapons pointed at the wall as if ready to continue the barrage of bullets but we couldn't hear a single android still moving. A few of us including myself started walking forward. At first we could only see the basic outline of the wall from all the smoke but as we came closer....we saw dozens of androids bodies near the whole...practically creating a wall on its own over 3 feet high. I would have to say at least 70 of them lied dead on the ground.

Some of the agents kicked the androids bodies seeing if they were alive but most didn't react. One I kicked it twitch slightly before...moaning...or softly roaring was more like it. I aimed my desert eagle at it looking it right in the eyes before firing a single shot...killing it instantly.

Some of the bravery agents went to the very edge of the hole and looked out...we awaited their judgment as they turned back as said.

"I think we got them all!" He said as there was a breath of relief before they pointed towards us...except not at us...

"Um...guys..."They said as we turned around to see....a massive crowd of tribals looking at us...in...I would say awe but...there jaws were all dropped...both commoners and the warriors. The agents looked concerned thinking the tribals would attack them out of fear but I knew better...though we might be asked to leave...

I stepped forward with the AK 47 on my back and I put my desert eagle away. I walked out alone awaiting to see if anyone would either cheer for us...or scream to leave. I even saw Castro in the crowd holding his spear and he looked at me as if he didn't recognize me. The chief, the elders, the shaman....everyone saw what we did t the androids.

Its that silence that makes anyone go insane...anything could happen...likely nothing good...

But then...a little wolf girl stepped forward...t-the wolf girl from before! She walked towards me looking at me with big eyes. I knelt down both out of respect and how weak my legs were at the moment. She walked until she was only about 2 feet away from me. She was looking right into my eyes...

I-It was like looking at myself in the past...what would it have thought of what it just saw? I moved my hand and the tribals looked ready for the worst. I reached into my suit pocket and pulled out what was in it this whole time....the doll

I held it out to the girl and she looked at it for a second...she looked at me before I said trying not look frightening in the least bit.

"Here.....its yours....I kept it safe for you." I said as she grabbed onto it with both hands and took it away...it was finally returned to her.

She stepped back and nodded. Then softly said.

"T-Thank you........for defending our home."