R.O.N.A.

Chapter 14

*Aris*

Tyzon told us that hover-cars were actually designed for long distance trips at a higher elevation and that they could only hold so many passengers. So, he divided the group in two for the ride to the other hemisphere of the planet. Sephora, Malina, Talon, and I rode in one hover-car, while Rexan, Tyzon, and the additional passenger I suggested, Zander, rode in the other.

As Malina and Sephora chatted excitedly, I was out of sorts. I was unable to focus on the excitement. Instead, for some reason, I found myself starring at Talon, who was driving. I still found it odd that he had been somewhat unemotional towards all of us, but then all the sudden he smiled in front of me. I couldn’t imagine what had sparked this drastic change.

“Aren’t you excited Aris?” Malina asked looking at me with a puzzled expression.

“Hmm?” I answered. The question had barely registered to me. I turned to Malina and Sephora and found them both starring at me with worried looks. “Oh, yeah sorry. I was just thinking about something.” I smiled to reassure them that I was fine and their worry melted away.

“When we get there I have a surprise for you,” Malina said eagerly, “Since we are also getting a tiny break and you may never get to see this side again... at least anytime soon.”

“Cool! I can’t wait to find out what it is!” Sephora said with a wide grin.

For the rest of the way, I forced myself to be part of the conversation as we chatted about various subjects until we finally reached our destination. The opposite side of the planet was also exactly opposite in climate. Whereas the city was mostly lukewarm in temperature and the area was mostly covered in molten rock, this side had a very tropical-like climate and trees and flora grew everywhere. Also unlike where R.O.N.A.’s headquarters sat, there was sun on this side. Apparently the planet’s rotation meant that the sun never directly shined on the city.

 Both parties carefully landed the hover-cars in an empty field-like area in between the trees. Talon helped each of us out. When he held out his hand to me, I hesitated, but then I took his hand for balance. As soon as I was firmly on the ground, I studied the area around me.

The trees looked a bit different than home, but by what I saw it felt like I was in the Amazon. Tall trees loomed nearly all around us, except for a small opening. Exotic flora was growing all around and the atmosphere was mildly humid.

Rexan, Tyzon, and Zander also exited their aircraft and then came over to the rest of us. “Now, this is strictly a trip for collecting the Minayla flower,” Tyzon said sternly, “Once we have enough, we will return immediately in order to produce enough vaccinations for all those who were affected. Got it?”

“I don’t think it will matter if we take a small break,” Malina argued. The group turned to look at her with wide eyes. She seemed like the quiet type, I had never heard her speak so forcefully, but I did know that she could definitely could be stubborn.

“Alright,” Tyzon gave in, “What is your idea?”

Malina smiled wide and pulled the off the pack she was carrying on her back. She knelt down and dug into the bag and suddenly threw the guys each some sort of clothing. “Here. This will explain it. Us girls will go and change in the trees... no peaking!” she teased.

“What are we doing?” I said quietly as the three girls walked over into the trees.

“You’ll see,” Malina replied with a mischievous grin.

“You make me a bit scared...” Sephora said. I could tell she was nervous; she had never liked surprises.

“Don’t worry. You’ll have fun. I know it.”