Chapter Two: A Whole Old World

[Akirapryde]

(OOC: Okay so this post was created between Suki and myself via PM. We are making one post for the ease of reading. Consider the post as part of a conversation between two characters.)

At Alice’s revelation, Suki’s mouth hung open in surprise. Lost for words, Suki allowed Alice to lead her towards the serving line. As the pair got in line to get their food Suki finally asked, “so you were born in Clan space? Are you a human just forced to be raised there?”

Alice shook her head, “no my family was actually from the Clan world of Ironhold. They moved from Ironhold after the situation between the Science caste and the Warrior caste became hostile. Shortly after I was born and my mother was killed, my father took me and fled Clan space. We settled on Tharkad, where I was raised.”

Suki listened and dropped her head, “so Clan’s are not alien?”

Alice shook her head, “no. But their culture can be alien to many.”

“So do you think we should get the others food also?” Suki added. Then she nodded wanting to ask another question. “ah…..so you are human?”

Alice laughed, “yes I am human.” She patted Suki’s hand, “in Clan culture, the warrior and along with some of the Science caste engage in genetic manipulation. They did this in their quest for perfection in the human evolution. To create the prefect warrior or in the case of the Science caste, a better human being.” Alice fell silent then added, “I think that the others will like that. I will make a selection for them.”

Suki blinked as she moved her tray forward down the serving line, “so um….were you manipulated on?”

Alice looked down as if it was a difficult subject, “yes….yes I was part of the genetic program created by the Science caste.” There was a clear sadness in her voice as Alice answered.

Suki didn’t have to see the look on Alice’s face to know that her question caused sadness. “I am sorry.”

Alice made her final selection as she spoke softly, “no, its okay. The choice was made for me. Plus, growing up on Tharkad wasn’t bad. Many teachers and fellow students really treated me much better than I could have ever been treated back within the Clans.” She looked around not realizing that their conversation could be misunderstood. “Maybe we should continue this conversation later.” Alice made sure that there were four trays filled with a healthy selection of food for the party members back at the table.

Suki nodded, “okay.” The pair walked back to the table with two pairs of trays filled with food. Suki helped Alice place the two trays on the table as she looked forward, “we figured we would get you two something to eat also” Suki said speaking to Jake and Adrien. “I hope you enjoy your food.”

Alice made sure that both Jake and Adrien had their own tray of food. “It’s not much but I hope you guys like it” she said helping Suki back in to her chair. “So did we miss anything?”