Amazon: Part 5 - Charm School, Week 1 free porn video

Amazon - Part 5: CHARM SCHOOL By Itinerant Edited by Amelia R Biographer's Note: This is Nicole's story. It covers those events and people she finds notable in her life and chooses to share. If you have problems with it, take it up with her. I'm just a glorified stenographer. ********** Friday, January 5, 2001 WGSS Main Office Fairfax, VA 5:10PM ET Nicole spent the remainder of the afternoon with the returned team after being introduced by her boss, David Stirling. She had learned something of their life in the field as the five recounted incidents, some humorous, of their latest expedition. She quickly observed that this group, at least, was tight-knit, various members responding automatically as questions in their sphere of expertise arose. "How did you handle being there?" Nicole had asked. "How did you deal with having to just stand by and watch what was happening to those people?" Ted answered for them all. "For the most part, we didn't see anything while it was happening. The militias left us alone and ran when we came into an area. We helped when we could with the medical supplies we had on hand." He sighed as he finished. "There's only so much you can do when the government is such a big part of the problem." ***** She'd finally wrapped up her day, or so she'd thought, when she returned to her desk to collect her coat and purse to return to her apartment. ~I guess I can call it home. It's all I have at the moment.~ A note was on her desk: Nicole, Please stop by my office before you leave. Amelia Nicole, carrying her coat, purse, and briefcase, made her way to Amelia's office and found her there with a black computer case on the desk. The redhead knocked at the doorframe. "Amelia? You wanted me to stop by?" "Yes, I did! I didn't have time to do this earlier, and I know you're due in California on Monday, so I wanted to make sure you had your company laptop so you can keep up with your e-mail and the like while you're on the road." Nicole grinned as she replied, "You just saved me a stop during my shopping trip tomorrow. I noticed a CompUSA down the road and was going to do some shopping." Amelia opened the case to display an IBM Thinkpad within, along with the combination modem and Ethernet card, cables, power adapter, manuals, a flash drive, and external mouse. "This is our standard field system. It's running Windows 2000 and the Professional Office package. We add anti-virus and firewall software as well. Are you familiar with the OS and Office?" Nicole nodded. "I've used both Win2K and Office before. Since you use flash drives, I assume I have admin privileges so I can mount it?" Amelia smiled. "That's right. It also has a CD writer so you can back up your work. You have full ability to completely trash the system. The restore disk is in the inside pocket of the carrying case if that happens. Now, if you want to set it up, we'll get you logging in and learning your passwords." Within half an hour, Nicole was repacking the system in the case. She had the VPN software set up, her logins were working, access to the network drives was verified, web access through the company proxy worked, and her e-mail client was set up. "Thanks, Amelia. I appreciate your providing this system and helping me get it all set up." Amelia looked amused. "I don't know why you're thanking me. I don't recall the last time I just stood around and watched like this. When you get back from your outside classes, I'm going to draft you for my department!" "You'll have to take that up with David." Nicole chuckled. "Just keep in mind I'll only be here for about a month before I'm gone again." The blonde grinned. "That won't save you. I'll take whatever time I can get. Besides, I'm not above using my cooking for bribery." Nicole chuckled. "The cooking is tempting, but you'll still need to convince my boss. And," the tall redhead said as she closed the last zipper on the case, "I guess that's it. Is there anything else before I head out?" "Nope! We're all done here. Have a safe trip, Nicole, and I'll see you when you get back!" She extended her hand to the other woman. Nicole shook the offered hand. "Thanks, Amelia. Bye!" ***** Nicole's Apartment 6:10PM ET The door to the apartment closed with a solid 'thump' as Nicole lugged her load inside. She left everything on the dinner table while hanging up her coat. ~I really need to consolidate here. Carrying all this through the airport is going to be a *pain*.~ She quickly unpacked the briefcase and examined the contents. ~Most of this paperwork can just stay here, but I'll need to add a fireproof lockbox to my shopping for tomorrow." She pulled a piece of paper from her purse and made a note. ~It looks like there's room in the computer case for the few items I really need from the briefcase. Hmmmm.~ She reorganized the computer peripherals to make room, then packed the remaining business items in the case. A small number of business cards made their way into her wallet. Satisfied with the re-packing, she took the now-empty briefcase into her bedroom and stored it in a corner of the closet. She looked again around the room -- her room. The furniture looked to be all wood, but a clean-lined style that reminded her of a motel room. ~It isn't my first choice for style, but at least it isn't that cold metal stuff.~ The queen-size bed, dresser, night-stand, and armoire were all solid, if not fancy. She returned to the living area. ~Time for some dinner and relaxation. I at least need to do a little shopping tomorrow. ~ A thought rose abruptly. ~Oops! Almost forgot!~ "Michael? Do you have a minute, please?" "Yes, Nicole?" Her guardian angel and mentor appeared near the door and walked toward her. "Hi Michael. I had a talk with David Stirling today, and he was unhappy, as he called it, with how I was brought into the company. I didn't tell him much, but did say his training was crucial to my long-term survival. I said he should call you, tell you what I said, and ask for more information." Michael winced. "I'm sorry you were in the line-of-fire, child." She chuckled. "Daddy, that's not the first time *or* the worst time. I want him to train me, but I need him to trust me enough to do everything I'll need. I didn't know how much it was safe to tell him; I didn't think he'd believe the real story." The man nodded. "I'll think about it and talk to him next week. You did well, daughter. Are you ready for your trip?" "Pretty much. I need to pick up some luggage and a fireproof lockbox for the important papers, but I think I'm set for everything else." "Can I do anything else for you?" "Nope, just a hug and I'm good-to-go. Or you are. Or something like that." She grinned. Michael reached out and hugged the young woman. "You have a good trip, and you be careful." "I will." She returned the hug and watched as he walked toward the door and disappeared. ********** Sunday, January 7, 2001 Doubletree Guest Suites, Doheny Beach Dana Point, CA 4:10PM PT Nicole pushed the door open with her shoulder, awkwardly wheeling the larger of her two suitcases into place to hold it open. The second suitcase squeaked as she pulled it into the room and was left by the bed that soon held the hanging bag, computer case, and her purse. Another moment and the door thumped shut as the last suitcase was pulled into the room. ~I *hate* LAX!~ She groaned as she left the last bag sitting on the floor where it was. She sat down and slipped out of her shoes, reveling in the feeling of bare feet as she rubbed them to soothe the slight ache from the long day of walking around airports; it seemed to take more of a toll on her than she was accustomed to. Looking around, she grimaced. ~This stuff won't hang itself up.~ She stood again and began to unpack for the long stay. ~After this, I'd best make my run by the seminar site, so I know where it is from here, and also check out where I can eat. Who knows? Maybe I'll be able to walk tomorrow, weather permitting.~ She had to admit, though, that the Grand Prix was a fun car to drive. Maybe walking wasn't such a good idea -- it might rain, after all. She smiled to herself as she unpacked. ~I might as well indulge a bit while I can.~ ***** Monday, January 8, 2001 5:00AM PST Beep-beep-beep! A bleary eye gazed venomously at the source of the noise. It had been hard to sleep with the noise at the apartment after the quiet of the cabin. The motel was even worse. Her keen hearing had picked up new arrivals all night, as she was startled into alertness by doors closing in the corridor or the voices of new arrivals walking near her door. Tempting as it was to hammer the clock into pieces and go back to sleep, she groped for the off switch and sat up. She still rose early, as the habits of even a few weeks were ingrained. She might not have horses to care for, but she needed to keep up her conditioning, and perhaps it would help her wake up. Nicole stood, stretched, and made her reluctant way to the bathroom. She dressed in a sports-bra and sweats before making her way to the fitness room. Scanning around, she saw a couple of decent Nautilus machines and several treadmills. A five-minute warm-up and she began working her way up the weight settings on the Nautilus. An hour and a half later, having topped out on the weight settings and then using a short 45 minute run at 10 miles-per-hour to get her heart rate up a little, she returned to her suite for a shower. It was time to dress for the outside world and to eat before classes started. She wanted to make good use of the business outfits purchased that first day after she changed. A bolt of pain accompanied the memory of that shopping trip with, and her recent betrayal by, Artemis. She shook off the memory; one day there might be reconciliation, but not until Artemis decided to change her outlook. Nicole flipped through each of her outfits and evaluated the impression they would make. The weather here was warm enough to use anything in her closet, but rain might be a pain even with the umbrella that sat by the door. ***** 8:45AM Etiquette School She stopped just outside the door and checked her watch. ~Great! I'm here fifteen minutes early. That's plenty of time for me to get in and settled before class.~ She walked up and entered the building. A receptionist pointed her to the room where the weeklong Business and Social Etiquette seminar was to be held. Perhaps a dozen people were already in the rectangular room. A projection screen was to the right of the doorway, and a ceiling mounted projector to the left; a computer to run the presentation sat in the far left corner of the room. A lectern stood alone in the far right corner, next to the screen. Light gray walls surrounded the wood-looking table, which looked about half full and held small placards with names printed on them. Looking at the people in the room, Nicole's first thought was relief. She had chosen a comfortable, medium-blue pants suit and light blue blouse; it being the closest thing to typical office wear she had. Her hair was restrained by a barrette and trailed down between her shoulders. The black, low-heeled shoes completed the echo of the blue- suited executive. She had deliberately avoided much makeup; she'd get a feel for dress conventions and then decide where to go on that. The dress of the others in the room varied a bit -- this was California after all -- but so far most were also in office wear. She located an empty seat with her name on a folded card and a stack of handouts on the table. She sat down and started flipping quickly through the stack. Her thoughts were derailed by a cheerful voice as someone sat in the next chair. "Hi! My name's Kate, Kate Tanner." Nicole turned her head to look at the newcomer and extended her hand in greeting. Kate was not terribly tall, perhaps a head shorter than herself, with shoulder-length, dark brown hair and medium green eyes. She had an open and friendly feel about her. "Hi, I'm Nicole Harrison." There was an odd... tickle? ... in the back of Nicole's head as the brunette sat next to her. That feeling was followed by another, much lower in her body, as the attractive brunette stirred physical responses of a more easily recognized sort. Nicole fought the latter reaction as she looked at the girl. ~Woman, you dummy! She's the same age you look!~ she thought to herself as she picked up the conversation again. "Glad to meet you. Are you from this area?" Kate nodded as she replied, "Yeah, I grew up in West Hollywood and went to school at UCLA. The company that hired me sends all their new people to this seminar and the one on dining decorum. You?" She absently rubbed the back of her head. "No, I'm from out of state; I graduated from Syracuse. I work for Wing Ground Sensor Systems near DC; they seem to think I have management potential, and I'll also be doing some field work, so I'm here for this seminar, the one on dining decorum, plus the next week that covers international etiquette." "Cool! Ever been here before? I'm staying at the Holiday Inn, since it's too far to commute home." Nicole's brain flashed through trips Tom had made over the years, but decided to avoid the possible problems of mentioning them. Besides, this *was* her first trip as Nicole. "Nope, this is my first trip. I'm in the Doubletree for the three seminars this place hosts, away for a week in London for another seminar, and then, if you can believe it, back to LA for dance lessons!" "Dance?! Why?" "We do a lot of business in the US and Europe, so they say I need to be ready to handle upper-crust social situations." "Ewwwww!" A look of distaste at the thought appeared on Kate's face. Nicole shrugged. "It's just part of the job. I hope it'll wind up being more fun than squished toes. Maybe I should invest in steel-toed shoes?" She snickered. Her companion giggled. Her response was cut off as the instructor showed up and the seminar began. ***** The seminar took a break at 10:30 to allow attendees to stretch their legs and take a coffee break. Nicole noticed that the 'tickle' faded when Kate left the room, then returned when she did. ~How odd. I wonder what's up?~ Kate looked puzzled when she returned, but waited until Nicole returned from her bathroom break. "Nicole, would you like to grab lunch with me?" "Sure, my treat today?" "Sold!" ***** The morning flashed by, as information poured out of the instructor on "how to make an entrance and work a room" and "networking and first- meeting strategies." Nicole's handouts were extensively marked up with highlights and elaborations. Nicole and Kate found a small restaurant near the seminar site, sitting indoors as the breeze off the ocean was cool. Both took advantage of a seafood salad, and they munched quietly for a time. "So, Kate, who is it you work for?" "I work for an electronics firm called Interstate Electronics in our Anaheim office." She dug into her purse. "I think I have a business card here somewhere...." Nicole smiled as she pulled her wallet out, extracting a business card from one of the credit card positions. "Here's my card, Kate. Someone suggested I store a small number of business cards like this," Nicole showed her wallet to her companion, "so I'd be able to find one quickly." She didn't mention that it was Tom's mentor when he started his career in the 60's. Kate finally unearthed a card from her purse, a bit the worse for wear, and handed it across the table. More cards followed and found their way into a niche in her wallet before it was returned to her purse and the conversation continued. "Nicole, have you noticed any odd headaches this morning? Every time I've walked close to you, I've had this odd feeling in the back of my head," Kate said. "Not a headache, but a tickle. Is that more like it?" Nicole responded. "Exactly! Have you ever felt anything like that before?" "No, I haven't. I can ask someone who might know about things like that." She thought to herself that Michael might be waiting for her when she got to the motel for that matter. "That feeling really is weirding me out! Do you think something's wrong?" Kate was looking a bit worried. "Not a chance. I recently had a complete, detailed physical. I think they even checked my hair for split-ends. Absolutely everything is clean, so it can't be a physical problem. We may be nuts, but we're healthy nuts." "Great, that makes me feel *ever* so much better. Not." "Kate, I don't really know what's happening either. I do have people I trust to tell me about things that I should worry about. I promise to check tonight and let you know tomorrow if they have anything. I have no idea what it might be. I will warn you my life has been severely weird of late." "OK, I guess. If you hear anything, I want to find out then; got it? This is totally freaking me out!" "I get that; I don't like weird things happening in my head either." She checked her watch. "It's time to get back." Nicole paid the bill and joined Kate for the short walk back to the seminar. ***** 5:20 PM Doubletree Suites Nicole finally got back to her room after the seminar, but only after promising Kate she'd meet up for dinner at 6. ~Maybe I can get an answer to our questions before dinner.~ "*MICHAEL?!*" She raised her voice a bit, trying to make sure he knew it was for him. "What's up, Nicole?" A familiar voice came from right behind her, causing her to start and spin around. "Cut that out!" she said, glaring and slapping gently at the grinning angel. The glare faltered and changed to an answering smile, then a half-frown. "I had a weird thing happen today. I hollered to see if you could help figure out what's going on." "OK, I will if I can. Tell me about it." She quickly outlined the events of the day leading to her call for help. "So I promised to find out what I could." Michael nodded. "It's simple. That 'tickle' is a recognition signal telling you that a potential Amazon is near. She gets the same signal that the Queen is near. It will keep happening until the potential recruit either accepts or refuses the call. Each Amazon is also sensitive to potential recruits, but you will have the final say in extending the call." "And it didn't occur to anyone to TELL *ME* about this?" The glare returned. He shrugged. "It wasn't supposed to happen like this. You were supposed to have Artemis to help you adjust to being a woman. Since you and she aren't able to work together on that, you are being provided with someone else instead." "Great. 'Hi, Kate! I found out that you're a potential Amazon and that tickle in your head is telling you I'm your Queen. Just ignore all that Greek mythology. Oh, and by the way you're selected to help me learn how to be a woman since I was a man two months ago.' Yeah! Uh-huh! That'll really work, I'm sure!" "You were going to have to face this at some point." "I know that! I thought I'd have time to learn a little about what I'm doing first! What do I *do*?" "If I may make a suggestion, just telling her the truth might work out better than you expect." She gaped at him. "Just tell her the truth?" He nodded. "All of it?" He shrugged. "Perhaps not all at once. You do need to fill her in as quickly as you can. You need the help she can give rather badly." "Just when I thought my life wouldn't get much weirder for a while." She sighed heavily. "If you need to talk later, I'll be listening. It's time for you to get ready for dinner." She smiled uncertainly. "And it's probably best to settle this sooner rather than later, right?" Michael just smiled in return. "Right. Put in a word for me with your boss and make sure He has a line open for me. I'll need help to get this across without sending Kate screaming from the room. Oh, and can you drop off a couple of feet of 3/4" rebar? I want something to get Kate's attention and a demonstration might help." "Of course, and I'll be here anytime you need me, daughter." "Thanks, Daddy. Now scoot so I can change." ***** 6:00 PM Holiday Inn Express "So, Kate, where do we go?" The brunette and redhead stood outside the motel looking at the signs up and down the road. Kate shrugged her shoulders. "Dunno. Mexican?" "Sounds good, there's that place that way we can walk to," she said, pointing south. Kate nodded as the two walked along the highway toward the restaurant. "By the way, Nicole, have you found anything out yet?" There was no immediate reply from her companion. The hesitation unnerved Kate. They walked in silence for a moment before Kate tried again. "Nicole? You're scaring me here. Is it that bad?" "I'm sorry Kate, I was just thinking. It's not bad; you're not sick, or anything like it. The whole thing will break your weird-meter though. It might be best to hold off the explanation until after we eat -- and no alcoholic drinks; you might want one later, but you need to be sure of what you hear." "OK. I'll stay right here at a nice, comfortable scared. Water with dinner, check." ***** Dinner had little, if any, small talk. Both women sat quietly, preoccupied with their thoughts. One woman was stressing over the unknowns of that sensation in her head, the other trying desperately to imagine a believable way to explain the unbelievable. Outside, the two stood trying to decide how to proceed. Nicole spoke up, "Why don't we go back to my suite, Kate? It's quiet, and I'll explain what I know." "That's the best deal I'll get, right?" "Probably; it's the best I can do right now." Nicole had an apologetic look on her face. Kate took a deep breath. "OK, let's go." ***** 7:30PM Doubletree Suites The brunette was subdued as she sat on the couch. She waited as Nicole found a seat after coming out of the bedroom and propping an arm-length piece of 3/4" rebar next to the chair. She also held a white rod in her hand. "So -- I can't really put this off anymore," began the redhead. "I talked to that person I mentioned who would know what that sensation is all about. He explained it and left how to explain it to you in my hands." She paused for a moment. "As I said, it isn't at all dangerous. You aren't sick or anything. It *is* kind of a problem for me, though, since I hadn't expected find someone like you yet." "Like me?" Kate tilted her head and raised an eyebrow in question. Nicole nodded. "Buckle your seatbelt, because here it starts getting really tough to believe. All I ask is that you hear me out to the end. "Let me start with some basics. What do you know about Greek mythology -- specifically the Amazons?" Kate looked puzzled. "I took a Greek history course as an elective, but I don't know much. They were a tribe of warrior women in what's now Turkey. They died out about three-hundred B.C.E. as far as I know, at least based on the stories surrounding Alexander the Great." Nicole nodded, unsurprised. "Ignore most of the Greek mythology you know regarding the Amazons; it's almost all wrong. They existed about 4000 years ago, centered north of the Black Sea. They were betrayed and overrun by the Hittites; every last clan was hunted down, isolated, and destroyed. About seven weeks ago, I was going home from a business trip when I literally tripped over this, the Amazon Royal Scepter." She held up the white rod in her hand and then handed it to Kate. "A week later I had visitors who said I had been chosen to restart something that hasn't existed for 3500 years -- the Amazon Nation." Kate's expression was, to be nice, skeptical; she examined the rod, and, after handing it back, snorted in derision. Nicole ignored the response, other than curving her lips into a slight smile, and continued. "That 'tickle' you felt was how a potential Amazon can identify me as the leader, the Queen if you like. I get the same sensation to tell me a potential Amazon is around. I didn't select you; that decision was made by others." She shrugged. "It is still your choice; you can say no, or you can say yes. Either way, once you decide, the sensation will stop." She paused for a moment. "Kate, you're a person I know I can grow to like. Even if you say you don't want to become an Amazon, I hope you'll consider becoming a friend." "You're nuts, you realize." Kate, wide-eyed, started looking for exits from the room. She wished she'd taken the chair closer to the door. Nicole sighed; she had expected this reaction. "OK. Don't go running away screaming just yet. How about a demonstration?" She stood and moved toward the door. "Pick up the rebar and try to bend it." "Huh?" Kate looked blankly at the other woman. "Why would I want to do that?" "Please. I need you to convince yourself that rebar is real." Kate kept her eyes on the lunatic redhead as she picked up the heavy steel bar. She tried, but couldn't even make the thing flex. "OK. So what?" "Are you satisfied it's real? Do you think anyone could bend that with their bare hands?" Kate barked out a laugh. "Even Ahhhnold couldn't bend that puppy." "OK. Just put it down and move off to what you feel is a safe distance." Kate did so, returning to her seat on the couch. It was frustrating that Nicole carefully kept between her and the door. Nicole walked over and picked up the rod. "Real steel and almost an inch thick, right?" Kate nodded. "Watch." Kate's eyes started and her jaw dropped as the other woman, seemingly without effort, promptly turned it into a hoop. "Here." Nicole handed the bent bar to her shocked companion. "Try to unbend it. Still the same bar, right?" Kate gave the ends of the rod a strong tug. She was unable to budge the bent steel. "It seems to be the same, unless it's all a magic trick." Nicole retrieved the steel circle. Again, seemingly without trying, the bar bent easily and was returned to a slightly warped version of the original. Kate just stared for a moment at the rebar, then looked in fear at the redhead. "This can't be real. You can't be human. What ARE you?" Nicole moved back, placed the rebar next to her chair again, and folded her arms under her breasts. "As I told you, I'm the first Queen of the new Amazons. I'm a stronger, faster version of all the rest that will come later. It's my job to learn what I must, and find the women and men I need to rebuild the Nation from scratch. You are the first person I've found who has been selected, if you choose to say yes, to help me in my task. I'm not here to hurt you in any way; I need you and your help." "I must be hallucinating, or dreaming." Kate sat, shaking her head in disbelief. "Why do you think I suggested you stick to water?" Nicole put the rod down before walking to Kate. She knelt down before the young woman. "Kate, I know this is unbelievable. The person I spoke with, who told me what that 'tickle' was, said you deserve the whole truth up-front; I agree with that. I can't build the kind of relationships I need if I don't tell the truth." She waited a moment for some reaction. "Can I get you some ice water?" "Sure," came the absent reply. Nicole was grateful she was responding at all. Kate struggled to process the revelation. ~This normal looking woman says she's an Amazon, and she's stronger than an Olympic weightlifter.~. Kate shook her head to clear it as Nicole returned and gave her the ice water. The oddest part of this was that, weird as it all sounded, something deep inside told her it was all true and real and right. Her heart told her this was to be part of her life. It made no sense at all. "So let me get this straight -- you got drafted into restarting the Amazons, and you picked me to help." Nicole returned to her seat with another glass of ice water. "Not quite. I was picked, but had a choice to say no; I said yes. Remember that I didn't pick you, either. That came from a much higher authority." Nicole pointed up. "God chose you because you are the best person to help me. It's still a choice, not a draft. You can say no, and no one will force you, or think less of you, either way." She paused for a sip of water. "There is one thing that you must promise me, no matter what you decide. You *must* keep this secret until I say otherwise. There are people who are looking for me and will kill me if I'm found." The brunette paled. "Who? Why?" "I don't know who, yet. The same groups are still around that destroyed the Amazons last time. They'd be happy to stop me now, before I can get started." Kate's mind whirled as she strove to cope with the magnitude of what she'd heard. "I... I need some time to think about this." "I understand, Kate. Take all the time you need; there's no hurry or time limit. Just think it through carefully and ask any questions you want. I'll answer anything as best I can. You have my cell number on the card I gave you earlier. I'll leave my phone on. Call me any time with any questions." She paused before continuing. "Kate, do you have any religious affiliation?" The brunette nodded absently. "This is a good time to pray for guidance. This is a lot to think about and you need all the help you can get. If it helps, I'll be praying for you, too." "I need to leave now. I'll see you tomorrow." The thoroughly rattled brunette departed hurriedly, leaving Nicole to ponder whether she had a future anymore. "Michael, I hope I didn't blow it," she said to herself as she closed and locked the door. An arm draped itself over her shoulders. "You did fine. She needs time, just as you did." "What happens if she says 'Yes'?" "Then we need to have Artemis come and welcome her into the Nation. I know it won't be comfortable for you, but it must be that way." "That's only right. She's waited so long for this, there's no way we can keep her out of it. It's the only way she'll ever really heal, I think. I can't let my problem with her poison the relationships she can have with the new Amazons." She looked up at Michael. "How's she doing? Has anything changed at all?" The angel hesitated. "Things haven't changed much since you left. She's worried that she has ruined any chance for the Amazons to succeed by estranging you, rather than thinking about how she wronged you." Nicole shook her head. "Michael, you know my heart. I don't hate her; I'm just terribly hurt and angry. But no matter how hurt I am, I can't let that ruin the chances for the Amazons to be reborn." She paused. "Let her know that I'm hurt because I want to love her and have her love in return. Any time, any place -- if she thinks we can reconcile, I want to fix this, but she has to get to the point where she accepts me for who I *AM* not who I was. And could you ask her to come by for a minute? If Kate says yes, I want to have something straight with Artemis." "I'll make sure she knows," he replied and left. Only moments passed, and then a black-haired, dusky woman appeared. "What do you want, Harrison?" She waited for a response, wondering why Nicole had voluntarily asked for her presence. Nicole began, "We need to get something settled before you have to welcome our first new Amazon." Artemis' face flashed from uncertainty, to hope, to worry. "First, I want to apologize for my words when I came back from my camping trip. What you said hurt, more than anything in my life, but my reaction still wasn't justified. Please forgive me, and I'd be pleased if you felt comfortable calling me 'Nicole' again." Artemis looked startled. She had considered many possibilities, but this was nowhere on her list. "Of course you have my forgiveness, as if it is needed. And right now I appreciate your permission to call you by your given name." A small smile appeared on her lips. Nicole nodded. "I'm sure you know I met a potential Amazon today. If she says yes, I don't want problems between the two of us to taint her attitude toward you. I want the Amazons to respect you as they should." The goddess had the grace to appear embarrassed. "Thank you. I understand, though, you and I still have a long way to go." The Queen nodded. "We have time. This situation with Kate can't wait. May I call on you as I do Michael if I need to?" "Of course. Do you think she'll say yes?" "I really hope so. It would be nice not being all alone." Artemis barely winced, still seeing echoes of the damage so thoughtlessly inflicted. "I'll be back if you need me. Anything else?" "No. Just say 'Hi!' to Elizabeth for me? I miss her, too." "I'll do that, and throw in a carrot from you. She keeps looking for you." "Thank you." The tension was thick as Nicole struggled to reign in her instinct to lash out. "That's all I had to say." The goddess nodded, but paused before she left. "Nicole? I know you don't have any reason to trust me right now, but please be careful. You're learning your new role in life, and it's very different from the life you used to live. This is your first foray out into the world; give yourself time to ease into who and what you are now." She disappeared. The bridge wasn't ready to rebuild, but perhaps the riverbed was ready to be reshaped after the nuking. ***** Tuesday, January 9, 2001 5:30AM Doubletree Fitness Room Nicole was just completing the last rep on the weight machine when he came in. He looked to be medium height, perhaps even as tall as she was, with blond hair and ice-blue eyes. She nodded in greeting as she got off the weight machine, reset the weight to its lowest setting, and set up the treadmill for her morning run. ***** Keith watched with interest as the redhead finished with the weight machine and started her run. He watched her lithe form with appreciation as she moved. ~I may just have to start a little earlier tomorrow.~ That thought left a smile on his face as he set the weight machine up. ***** Nicole glanced at the young man as he set up for his workout, noting the smile appearing as he looked at her. Her mind noted the attention with distaste. ~What kind of person does he think I am?~ At the same time her body decided it wanted more of the attention, and the slight friction between her legs as she ran only aggravated the mental distress she felt. ~What's wrong with me?~ Nicole wrenched her mind from her internal war and focused on the TV. ************** 6:30AM Nicole's Room Nicole walked into the room a bit tired after the run and still feeling the 'runner's high,' but there was still that unfamiliar sensation as well. She stripped off her clothing and headed for the shower; the exercise left her feeling good, but the sweat and odor she could do without. She stepped into the warm spray, enjoying the feel as it began cleansing the sweat. She turned and almost started as the water hit her breasts -- the impact of the spray on her nipples reinforced the sensations she'd felt earlier. She moved her left hand up to stroke one breast and groaned as the touch set off a pleasant tension throughout her body and warmth grew between her legs. The other hand stroked her front as it joined in the delightful stimulation of her hardening nipples. She felt the stiffening and crinkling as her arousal grew. All new, and all so different from anything she'd known as a man. Images of the man in the fitness room, then Kate, flashed through her mind as she continued her self-stimulation -- the incongruity utterly lost in the feelings coursing through her body. New levels of excitement opened as her right hand trailed slowly back down her stomach to gently cup herself and begin the invasion of the moist, textured velvet of her new sex. She brushed a spot at the top of her cleft and the world blinked out abruptly.... The water continued to sting her sensitive skin as she recovered enough to realize she was collapsed against the side of the shower stall. The abrupt explosion of orgasm had come, and she only vaguely recalled her knees buckling and her loud moan as she was swept from consciousness momentarily. Rarely had Tom experienced anything comparable, though there had been times in his youth when he and Beth had one of those perfect moments -- an utter joining of body and soul that even this didn't touch. They were rare even in those younger days. She just stayed there for a time, relishing the afterglow. Slowly she recovered and stood carefully, and unsteadily, to continue her shower. It was terribly tempting to indulge again in that new marvel she'd found. Now, however, it was time to get back to business and get ready for the day; perhaps she'd indulge tonight, or in the morning... or both. ***** 8:50AM Etiquette School Kate walked in looking like the morning after the night before. "Morning, Kate." Nicole looked sympathetically at the young woman as she sat, clutching a Starbucks cup. It was large and the contents were strong enough to give anyone within 3 feet a caffeine boost. "Morning." The brunette drank from her cup, trying desperately to substitute caffeine for sleep. Her eyes had bags under them, poorly concealed by makeup. She hadn't tried to use anything else other than a touch of lipstick. Even her hair looked a bit bedraggled and weary. "Do you want to join me for lunch today?" Nicole could feel the fatigue of the youngster. She'd try to keep questions to a simple, easy-to- answer level. A real conversation was not going to happen. "Fine." She took another gulp of the potent drink. Nicole gently shook her head. It could be a lot worse. ***** 12:00 Noon Kate was functional enough to follow, but little else. The caffeine had allowed her to take notes as she sat quietly through the morning presentation. Nicole took her to a nearby restaurant, the "Brio Tuscany Grille," and they sat in a fairly secluded booth. "Kate? Are you OK?" "No. I'm not. I hardly slept last night, and no matter how hard I try, I can't convince myself you're lying... or insane." Head held in her hands, a brief shake of the head was her only movement. "I'm not lying or insane, and you aren't insane either." She reached out a hand to her companion's shoulder in comfort. "It's hard, I know, to find out that something so weird is real. That's why I told you there's no need to hurry. There's all this week and next before you're done, and I'll be here the following week, too." "I... can't make a decision yet, but I don't want to drag it out either. Can we grab something quick to eat tonight? I want to just sit and talk for a while." "Of course, Kate. I told you before, I'll answer any questions I have the answers for, and do my best to find any answers I don't have." "Great." She looked dazed as she scanned the menu. "Is there a salad dressing with caffeine?" ***** 5:30PM Doubletree Suites Nicole gave Kate a ride to a nearby sub shop, then drove them back to her motel. Kate nibbled at her food, too tired to be really hungry. "So, Kate, you had a question?" Nicole tried to kick-start the conversation. "I was awake almost all night with questions racing though my head. Now I can hardly think of any; my head feels as if it's full of cotton. I guess I want to start simple: What ARE the Amazons? What do they do?" "It seems we have an enemy left from the time of the first Amazons, and we'll have to be ready to fight them. The Amazons will be warriors; we will fight to protect ourselves, our sister Amazons, or others too weak to help themselves. We will also be a matriarchy, with all command positions filled by women. That part the Greeks got right. As far as I understand it all, there is an ancient group that the Amazons are uniquely suited to combat. My task is to rebuild in such a way that we win the war this time. While we're doing that, I hope we'll be able to use the unique strengths of our women and men to build a society that will be more just and balanced than any other -- a model for the rest of the world." "Why me? What am I supposed to do? I don't have any military skills. I'm just out of college. And I don't know anything about sociology, either." Nicole chuckled. "Answering your questions in order: I don't know, I haven't figured out that for myself either; I'd say you'll do something you like to do, something that uses your strengths and skills -- that you have an aptitude for; and the implied third question, that's OK since I don't either -- at least not yet." "Huh?" "Which question 'Huh?'" "You're supposed to be the head of a nation and military organization and know nothing about either?" "Ignorance is curable. God willing, one day we'll not have to focus so much on fighting, but for now we seem to be called to stand up against something no one else can deal with." Nicole shrugged. "In March, I'll be heading off to Marine boot-camp at Parris Island. By the time I'm done in the Marines, I should be less ignorant." "Marines? Why the Marines?" Kate was waking up enough to process a bit more of what was being said. "We aren't -- won't be -- a nation state like the U.S. or Canada; we're going to be more like the Native American tribes that exist within the boundaries of another country. The Amazons will be a ground force, strictly light infantry; that eliminates the Air Force and Navy. The Army is geared toward big formations with lots of logistics support. The Marines are accustomed to operating in smaller, self-contained formations. That's closer to the Amazon model I'm shooting for. At some point I hope to get into their Force Recon training program, which is the Marine version of Special Forces. It's the best I can do in the States." "So what do I do? Am I supposed to sign up?" "No. At least I don't think so, not yet. If you say yes, I want you to keep going as you are. I'll need someone to run the financial side of the nation; if you like doing that, it's better to keep you at work you are good at and enjoy. At some point you'll need training, but not immediately." Kate nodded. So far things sounded odd, but OK. "What happens if I say yes?" "If you accept, I'll call Artemis, the patron goddess of the Amazons, and she will empower you and make you an Amazon." "Does that mean I have to worship her, or something? And how does this all work with being an American? I'm not happy about everything the U.S. does, but I don't want to go against it either." "First, things have changed a lot since the time of the Greeks. Artemis now works for the Archangel Michael in Heaven's Armies, so you don't have to worship her, but she does deserve your respect as the head of the Nation. Also, remember I grew up in the States, too. I don't think we'll be working at cross purposes much." Kate's eyes widened a bit as she asked, "And you're saying that all that stuff in the Bible...." "There are misunderstandings and misinterpretations, but insofar as it's translated correctly it's true. There was a pastor I heard once who said, 'The main things are the plain things, and the plain things are the main things.' That is completely and unambiguously true. From what I've found recently, people have gotten into trouble when they try to make things plain that aren't intended to be plain." "Wow!" Kate sat quietly for a few minutes as she considered the information. Nicole chewed on her meal, waiting for the next question. "So," Kate asked, "why did *you* say yes?" Nicole paused for a minute to swallow and take a sip of her drink. "I was, and am, a Christian. You recall I showed you the rod?" Kate nodded. "That is the Queen's Scepter of the Amazons, and it appeared, literally, under my foot. I had Artemis and Michael show up to tell me what it was and the choice I had to make." Nicole shrugged. "I had a call from God and had to decide to accept or not. What choice did I really have and still be true to my faith?" Kate's eyes were wide. "You had an Archangel bring that call!?" Nicole nodded. "And they both trained me between my accepting the call and yesterday. Just as advice, *DON'T* try to be evasive with an angel. They get really angry, and there aren't many scarier things in this world." She shuddered a bit at that memory. Silence filled the room as the redhead finished her meal, and the brunette actually made progress eating as she contemplated her choice. Kate was tired, but was suddenly settled in her mind; a sense of peace filled her as she realized the choice was made. "I think I know what I want to do, but I'd like to sleep on it if that's OK?" Kate broke the quiet. "Kate, I told you there's no need to make a quick decision. If you need more than a day, or a week, that's OK too." "Thank you; I really appreciate the lack of pressure. Is there anything else you can tell me?" "There are other things I'd say to a sister Amazon, but unless you need more information for your decision, not really." "OK. Oh! One more question. Ummmm. The Amazons were supposed to be all- women, all the time, and that's kind of squicky to me. Will I? we...." The blush started from the shoulders and worked up to her hairline. Nicole giggled and shook her head, as another corner of her mind voiced disappointment. "No. I can't let men take direct part in running the Amazons, but it won't be an extended episode of 'Lesbian Warrior Women.' We'll have men as part of the nation. Keep in mind, though, I won't make an issue of behavior in private as long as it doesn't affect the safety or mission of the Amazons." Kate sighed in relief, and then quietly finished her meal. A sense of peace and resolve came from somewhere and grew with time. Her decision was made; she knew it, but was determined to wait one more day. This was a BIG choice. ~One more day, just to be sure.~ She knew she'd sleep better tonight. She said her goodnight to Nicole and left. Nicole started to turn on the radio then stopped. "Michael?" Her guardian angel and guide appeared in the room, in front of her this time. "Hello, daughter. You did very well today with Kate. What can I do for you?" The redhead looked at him with a confused, almost fearful, look. "Michael, the last couple of days I've found myself responding to men *and* women. Physically, I mean. Sexually." As she spoke her face assumed a distinct red cast. "Just now there was a part of me that was sad that Kate was turned off by same-sex relationships." Michael nodded. "Are you really surprised?" Nicole hesitated. "I can't honestly say I really thought about it. Until I went through my change, I was a happily heterosexual man; now I'm female outside and attracted to both sexes -- I think. That just isn't right, is it? I mean everything I was brought up with said it wasn't." "Have a seat, child. I'll try to help you work through it." Michael nodded at the couch, sitting next to the terribly confused woman as she took her seat. "Now, why do you think something is wrong?" She looked at him as if he'd grown a second head. "I was raised thinking homosexuality is a problem and a sin. I know there are lots of people who think otherwise; I, well Tom, even worked with some people who were gay or lesbian, and they were marvelous to work with. They were, and still are I suppose, great folk I'm proud to have known. I just never expected to wonder which side of that street I lived on. God called me to do this work; I don't want to offend Him if I can help it." The expression on the angel's face turned faintly sad. "I wish more people would at least think to ask your question. Let me see if I can help you work through this. First you need to answer the question, 'What is God?' What one word describes Him best?" Nicole didn't answer for a few moments as she dug through her memory. "Love. In first John, chapter four, verse sixteen: 'God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.' It ties in with what Jesus said were the two greatest commands -- that we're to love God and love our neighbor." "Your new memory helps, doesn't it?" He chuckled. "Now, do you agree that you and Beth lived in love, and that your relationship was *defined* by that love for each other?" She bit her lip before answering; the hurt of the loss still fresh in her heart. "Michael, you don't even need me to answer that. You know the pain I still feel from that loss." "I know, and I'm sorry. I wouldn't bring it up if it weren't important. Anyway, do you think God had a problem with that relationship of yours?" She sighed. "There were times.... We wanted so much to have children. When we found we'd never be able to, we were heartbroken." Her breath hitched at a long buried memory. "We even tried adoption. All those doors seemed to slam in our faces...." Tears began as she recalled the shared pain from years ago. "Yes, Michael. At times we did feel God was angry with us and we didn't know *WHY*!" Raw pain flowed with the tears that fell freely down her cheeks. Michael quickly pulled her close. "Nicole -- *Daughter* -- He was *never* angry with you. I know it still hurts, but he had a path for you and Beth that needed you to understand that hurt; how many couples did you two help over the years who dealt with the same thing? Remember, He *LOVES* you, and always has." He stood long enough to grab a tissue. She sniffed back the tears, using the tissue to wipe her eyes. "So what does all this have to do with my confusion?" "God has one standard for a relationship: Love. A 'straight' or gay relationship based on anything but both love and respect is a sin to Him. Anything else, anything *less* is a mockery of his creation. "Adam and Eve were created to have that loving relationship as well as to procreate. The need to have children is not as crucial now, but the standard is still love and respect. There are couples of both sorts that are based on greed, or lust, or any number of things that make Him grieve. Whomever you choose to spend time with, even if it involves sex, if it is *love* and *respect* that motivates you, He will not be angry. Love can be misdirected, but it cannot be sin. Keep in mind I'm not talking about the current 'Hi! I love you!' attitude. The casual jump- in-the-sack cheapens what is meant to be a gift -- an outgrowth of an intimate sharing between two hearts." "So you're saying I don't need to worry about it, as long as our hearts are in the right place?" "Precisely; you *will* want to give yourself time to adjust to your new body and its reactions, so you can avoid problems. Your brain is literally wired differently now, and it will take time for you to learn just what that implies, not to mention that you can now get pregnant." "But what about all those verses talking about how bad homosexual behavior is?" "That's one of those cultural sidelines for the time. The Greeks had oriented themselves and their society to the point they abused women and viewed them as nothing more than brood mares." Nicole finally returned Michael's embrace. "Thank you. I really needed this." She gave him a quick peck on the cheek as she said, "Love you, Daddy. Do you mind hanging around for a bit? It's comforting to have you around just now." She snuggled into his embrace as she pondered the information and what it implied for her life. "Not at all," he replied. ***** Wednesday, January 10, 2001 5:10AM Doubletree Fitness Room He was already in the workout room when Nicole arrived. He was already on one of the Nautilus, doing reps at a steady pace. Nicole found herself enjoying the view of the muscles working under the strain. She nodded and, with a friendly "Good Morning," began setting a second machine up for her own workout. He paused momentarily to look over at the sound. He smiled broadly and returned the "Good Morning" before continuing. For the next twenty minutes there was only the sound of weight machines. She'd come in prepared for her own physical reaction and just rode it without feeling the stress level of the previous day. Not to say she didn't appreciate the attention or the view. As she worked, she contemplated the change in her sexual outlook. After her talk last night with Michael, she decided she'd just relax and enjoy; there was no need to choose either side of the street for now. He sat on the Nautilus, watching her as she completed her routine. She'd just finished the last rep when his eyes widened. "That's an amazing weight you use!" She nodded. "I've worked at this for a while. It helps me stay in shape on the road." "I wouldn't think that should be much of a problem." He shook his head ruefully at the slender woman who topped his workout weight by 100 pounds. "Thank you, kind sir. I'm flattered." She smiled at him as she reset the machine and started setting up the treadmill. "My name's Keith. Keith Anderson." "Nicole Harrison. Pleasure to meet you, Keith." After shaking hands, she stepped on the treadmill and began her customary routine. She considered whether or not to continue the conversation, finally deciding to see where Keith went from here. Keith took a minute to choose a pre-programmed setting on a second treadmill before continuing. "So, what brings you to this part of California?" She explained her seminars, and they continued their conversation as they ran. Keith was in town until the end of next week for client meetings. "So, since I'm here over the weekend, would you like to take in some of the sights with me? Do the tourist thing?" Nicole actually regretted having to turn him down, suppressing her surprise at her own reaction. "I'm sorry, Keith. I'd like to, but I also have a new employee I'm supposed to orient while I'm here. Even my supervisor will be in over the next several days. I'm going to be busy pretty much every day I'm here." He looked a bit disappointed as he replied, "I understand, and that will have to do. You'll still be down here in the morning, right?" "As far as I know -- If it changes, I can let you know." She finished her run and left, trying to come to grips with balancing caution, work, and wanting to explore this new aspect of her existence. ***** 8:45AM Etiquette School It was all Nicole could do not to bounce in her seat. She found herself alternating between nervously tapping her fingernails on the table and twiddling her thumbs. When she forced herself to quit chewing a thumbnail for the third time, she got up to grab a cup of coffee. She thought to herself, ~I can't *wait* for Kate to show. This waiting is driving me up the wall!~ Finally Kate walked through the door. She had a carefully neutral expression on her face as she took her place. "Morning, Kate." Nicole was puzzled by the impassive face of her companion and the lack of response other than a quiet nod. Well, if she decided no.... With a shrug the redhead returned her attention to the handouts for today's session. The rest of the morning continued in the same vein. Kate was distant, to the point of not even agreeing to lunch when asked during the mid- morning break. By noon Nicole was becoming annoyed. She had other things she could do if Kate was uninterested, but why wouldn't she *say so*? She wondered what had changed since the previous evening. Pulling her chain, perhaps? Maybe it was time to show her that a chain has two ends and messing with the master, or mistress now, of hassling is a BAD move. She kept the evil smile off her face as she planned her own moves. ***** 12:00 Noon Etiquette School When the class broke for lunch, Nicole quickly made her way out of the room and the building. There was a small copse of trees across the street that provided a good observation point. She watched as Kate came out and looked both directions along the road. Her shoulders visibly drooped as she walked toward the nearest restaurant. Nicole followed from a distance and then made sure she took a seat at another nearby eatery allowing surveillance of the brunette. Kate seemed to be keeping an eye out for someone, her demeanor growing more depressed as time passed. Nicole was grateful for her enhanced eyesight; she was able to pick up useful information from a safe distance this way. Kate seemed to be picking at her food for a while before she gave up and, paying her bill, made her way slowly back to the seminar site. Nicole followed, again at a distance. If she was evaluating the reaction of the youngster correctly, Kate might be a little more careful in trying to hassle people who have *years* more experience at it. Her stalking continued to, and into, the building. The brunette took a look around before entering and then continued in with a truly depressed air -- followed shortly by a redhead with a very nasty grin. Nicole waited until the instructor was approaching the room, ducking in just before she got there. She delayed taking her seat until the instructor approached the lectern, leaving no time for conversation. Kate looked relieved to see her. Nicole returned a cool look and focused on the class. ***** 2:30PM Kate was squirming. ~Good.~ Nicole felt a soft touch on her arm as the instructor called for the afternoon break. "Nicole, may I talk to you a minute? Please?" Nicole looked over and any intent to extend the retribution died. The brunette was visibly distressed and was getting teary-eyed. With a nod and a hand on the youngster's arm, she guided the young woman out of the room and to another, empty, room. "What can I do for you, Kate?" She might not actively tease, but that didn't mean she wouldn't make her companion squirm a bit more and commit herself without opportunity to counter-tease. "I'm sorry I was mean to you this morning. I was just trying to tease, and it kind of got out of hand. I wanted to apologize at lunch, but you vanished and I couldn't find you." Her voice quivered as she continued, "I'm really sorry, and if you don't want me around anymore I understand. I really do want to join the Amazons though. If I still can? Please?" A tear began to trail down her cheek. Nicole's heart melted. The contrition washed away any inclination to draw out the wait. With a warm smile Nicole reached out to Kate. She wiped the tear away and then drew Kate into a hug. "It's OK, Kate. I figured out you were teasing and decided to indulge in a little payback." Kate looked shocked, then ticked, as she wiped more tears from her eyes. "You mean you... Why... Arrgh!" She took a playful swipe at Nicole, who dodged it easily. "Seriously, Kate, you're sure you want to say yes?" Kate nodded vigorously, a hopeful smile appearing that almost matched Nicole's. "Then I'd be and I accept you as an Amazon." She hesitated for a moment. "Let's go to my suite after class, and then we'll have Lady Artemis come meet her new daughter." Nicole's warm smile turned into one of brilliant joy. "Come now, get yourself pulled together. It's time to get back to class." ***** 5:30PM Doubletree Suites For once the session seemed to drag as both struggled to concentrate on the material. Finally they arrived at the suite and Nicole led Kate in. After the door was closed, Nicole turned to her companion. "You still have a chance to change your mind. Are you sure you want to do this?" Kate's face was calm and determined. "Yes, I am. This feels more right than anything I've ever done in my life, so far." She wiped her hands on her slacks as she continued, "Just ignore the pounding heart and sweaty palms." Nicole smiled and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "It's OK to be nervous. This is a huge step, and if you weren't nervous, *I'd* be nervous. It shows you're really thinking about this. Now, are you ready? Shall I call Artemis?" The brunette took a deep breath and nodded her head, "I think so. Go ahead." The tall redhead nodded. "Lady Artemis?" Kate started as the tall, black-haired goddess appeared in the room. She had an air about her that shook the young woman. She felt it in her bones. ~This is what true royalty is all about.~ Artemis radiated wisdom, and *power*; there was also an odd sense of age and agelessness! Kate looked toward Nicole for her reaction and a cue on how to act now. The redhead stood quietly, bowing slightly toward the goddess and seemingly unaffected by the sheer presence of the new arrival. Kate followed suit and replicated the slight bow. Artemis returned a nod to Nicole and then looked carefully at Kate. "Good evening, Nicole. And this is our candidate?" "Yes, My Lady, she is. She has accepted the offer to become the first of your new Amazons." Nicole took a step away as Artemis approached the now-trembling brunette. "Be calm, little one; you need not fear me." Artemis gently reached out and caressed Kate's cheek. "Do you want to continue? Once you take the oath, there is no turning back." Kate paused before responding, "Yes, I want to continue." Artemis dropped her hand to her side. "Very well. Kathryn Marie Tanner, do you swear your allegiance to your Queen, obeying her in all things and forsaking and renouncing all other allegiances? Do you swear to support your sister Amazons, giving them all the aid and comfort in your power? Do you swear to aid the weak and helpless as you are able?" "I do." Her eyes glistened. "Nicole Joy Harrison, do you, as Queen, accept Kathryn as your sister and a true Amazon? Do you swear to protect, teach, guide, comfort, and aid her?" "I do." Nicole returned the goddess' gaze calmly. "Then welcome to the Amazon Nation, Kathryn, my daughter." She placed a hand on the young woman's head, and a soft silver glow spread over her body. Nicole felt a pang at the tone of the words. Artemis' unreserved joy rang through the welcome -- she had her first *true* daughter for her new Amazons. Nicole ruthlessly suppressed her jealousy at the unqualified acceptance and focused on the joy of the new addition to the family, the first of her new sisters. Only a moment passed and the glow faded. Kate wobbled a bit and then steadied as she recovered from the process. "Woah! That was... indescribable! Is it over now?" Artemis responded, "Yes. You now have the empowerments of the Amazons. You are physically more capable than any normal human." "But not up to Nicole's level, right?" "True. She is, and shall always be, a special case." For an instant, a look of sadness passed through the goddess' eyes. "You will need to be very careful until you are accustomed to your new strength." "So, now what?" asked Kate. "Would the Lady would like to join us in a small celebration dinner this evening? You might like to have a little time to spend with your daughter," suggested Nicole. Artemis nodded; such times were likely to be few and far between in the future. The three departed for a local restaurant for an evening of casual socializing. The time for work was coming, but for now they would enjoy the relative quiet. ***** Thursday, January 11, 2001 Doubletree Fitness Room 5:15AM "Good Morning, Keith." "Mmmph! Morning, Nicole." He had been working hard this morning. The sweat on his face and chest already had begun to soak his shirt. She looked at the setting for the weight machine and cocked an eyebrow; it was set 50 pounds higher than the previous day. "I see you've pushed the weight up this morning." Keith finished the set and just let the weights drop. The higher setting had taken every bit of energy he had. "Yeah," he gasped, "I wanted to see if I could push a bit harder. Man, that was work." She nodded in agreement. "You look like you almost overdid it today." He actually looked severely overstressed, but a slender woman who was using a 100 pound heavier weight setting would *not* win friends by mentioning things like that. She set her machine as before, quickly running through her routine as Keith recovered. "Are you OK?" she asked as she completed the first part of her workout. His face was quite flushed, almost looking like a case of heat stroke. "I think so. That was harder than I expected." After resetting the machine to a lower weight, she stood and looked closely at Keith. He was not as flushed as before, but still looked more red than he should after the long recovery time. She gently, but firmly, made him lie back on the bench. "Lie down here for a minute." Keith's face showed surprise at the strength in