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Both Lydia’s gut and the news seemed quiet so she headed into the garden and stared up at the crack in the sky. It – and the energy leaking through it – was the source of all this trouble and things wouldn’t settle down until it closed. She closed her eyes and sent out her mind towards it, trying to sense anything helpful that might help get rid of it. But even though she could sense the energy pouring out of it, she found she could not actually sense the crack.

We tried that last time, my ilsra. Fellaria’s voice sounded in her head. But we never learned anything useful.

You’re safe! Lydia exclaimed. I’ve been worried.

Safer, anyway, Fellaria said. The rebels won’t talk to me – not that I blame them – but my daughter is and she’s offered me shelter. It’ll bruise my pride but I’m going to take her up on it.

Good, Lydia said. Pride is a ridiculous reason to get yourself killed. She opened her eyes and stared up at the crack again. Is it just as psychically invisible from the other side?

From the other side? Fellaria asked blankly.

You said it opened into the void, right? Lydia said. Can it be sensed psychically from there or is it invisible like from Earth?

I… I really have no idea. Fellaria sounded puzzled. We never though to investigate it from the other side. I wonder why not. I mean, the void between worlds is rather hostile but we should have thought of it. I’ll talk to my parents and make sure someone does that, then, Lydia said.

Ask one of the dragons to do it, Fellaria advised. They’re more resilient to the void so they’ll be able to do a more thorough job. How are things on Taloa?

Messy. Lydia shot the events surrounding Jenny’s rescue to her mentor.

Well at least you know how to stop the transformation, Fellaria said. That’s critical to avoid things getting even worse. But you need to do something about your government as well. They can’t carry on that way. She paused at Lydia’s mental sigh. Yes, I know it’s easier said than done. I need to get going to my daughter now. I know you are in regular communication with her so I imagine we’ll see each other soon.

That will be interesting, Lydia said. Have we ever actually met in the flesh?

Just once when you were quite small, Fellaria said. When Anda brought you to me after you literally landed on his head. We still have no idea how you managed that jump – it was very impressive.

Jump? Lydia asked. Yes, somehow you jumped from Taloa to Kithra past the quarantine and across the void when you were a toddler. You’re very talented but your spacial affinity isn’t that strong so it’s a real mystery.

I don’t remember, Lydia said.

No, I’d imagine not, Fellaria said. You were very small. But I really do have to go now. Alaryia’s beacon is beginning to change tone so she’s getting impatient. Luck go with you, my ilsra. I’ll send you an imp once I’m settled.

—

A/N: reminder – I’m starting a new Space Opera web serial next week and you can help. Read more here.

ETA: First prompt post up here.

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