Universe Hunters: Taken by C.L. Scholey Read Free Book Online

ignited.”
    “Oh, for the love of God. Here.” Cali ripped off a length of her clothing for him to wrap around his hips. Parts were singed, some areas had small holes, but it was salvageable. “I’m not going to have to stare at your dumb ass.”
    “Quiet, human.”
    Cali stiffened as Altair gripped her shoulder. Across the river was a huge beast. It moved in a weaving fashion, its soulless yellow gaze centered on them. It was the largest bird Cali had ever seen in her life standing at least twelve feet in height. White as snow feathers covered most of its body. A massive black beak opened to expose razor sharp teeth all in a neat row. Huge light brown wings fluffed, lifting it off its feet for mere seconds before returning it to the ground. Foliage swooshed up under the bird creature, giving indication of its great mass. It hissed at them in frustration, and Cali realized it couldn’t fly. She bet it could run like the devil on its two three-toed feet.
    “The Gar. They found us already and have taken a new form,” Altair whispered.
    “Why don’t you just burn it? Roast the bastard and maybe I can finally eat something. Those drumsticks would be mighty tasty right now.”
    “You don’t understand, that creature is the Gar or Gars. We should be fine. It won’t cross the water.”
    No, Cali didn’t understand. “For heaven’s sake. Why don’t you kill it ? Deimos would.”
    “Have you seen the size of Deimos?”
    The question made her blink. “Um, yeah.”
    “Then you know how powerful he is.”
    Cali turned to study him. For a second, she swore Altair was in awe of Deimos. Blazar was built bigger, so was Altair. What was she missing?
    “You have to be at least seven inches taller than Deimos and a good twenty pounds heavier.”
    “Exactly.” He was staring at her as though she must comprehend what he meant.
    “But, but,” she spluttered. “He’s smaller than you. Granted he’s strong.”
    “He has twice my strength. Surely you must see that? He is smaller, therefore much stronger.”
    Cali was stumped. It was obvious she was missing something. A thought occurred. It was Deimos who had fought Crone, not Blazar. Deimos was the physical one. Perhaps size in their culture meant something.
    “So, are you saying because Deimos is smaller, he is stronger than both you and Blazar?”
    “Of course. A smaller intense light burns hotter, because it takes only seconds to light. A larger fire, or greater light, takes more time. Time is of the essence to a hunter. Deimos begins to conquer his foe immediately while brighter lights need more time to gain their exact potential. Deimos shines with his potential the second he ignites.”
    “I suppose bigger lights don’t always burn brighter.”
    The bird creature snorted and screeched. Cali stood up and began moving away. Altair jumped to his feet and caught her hand. His skirt-loin cloth slipped low on his hips. His chest was broad and his long legs were as white as snow. Cali resisted the urge to giggle at him; he looked ridiculous.
    “Where are you going?” he asked.
    “To find shelter. Looks like it will be dark out soon.”
    “We mustn’t stray far. I was able to send a distress call.”
    “I’m not going to sit around like a damsel in distress waiting to be saved. I can save myself.”
    Cali turned on her heels and began walking. This might not be Earth, but it had a primitive, familiar smell. A shadow formed overhead, causing her to glance skyward. Thousands of birds looped and dove in a wild dance across the sky. They were beautiful. Abundant foliage made Cali wonder at the season, perhaps mid-spring. That would be a bonus.
    They walked for not more than a half hour. Cali ripped small strips of material off her clothing to make certain she could find her way back to the river. They came to a cave. She peeked inside. It wasn’t too deep, but it would keep them sheltered until help came. Then, she surmised, she would be kidnapped again and stuck on