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South of Bikini Episode 8 "Terra" 0940 hours, Ni'ihau, Hawaii, May 9th, 1944 "As you can see, Empress, this facility is very crude by comparison. I'm afraid it will be some time before our technology will catch up to Reilly." I told Alex Reilly as we finished our tour of Atlantis-Minor- Mina's chosen name for our base on Ni'ihau. "Captain, though you call it 'crude', I find this small settlement of yours wonderfully relaxing! I am reminded of similar places on our Homeworld before my reassignment to Reilly." At this point, she stopped and lowered her head. "It...it has been such a long time, Alexandra." "I'm sorry, Alex, I didn't mean to dredge up old memories." "No...no, that is not it at all. It is simply the fact that all my memories, as you designate them, are not of my reality! All known patterns, thought protocols, even my response to various stimuli, have all been installed into this revision of me! I have not actually experienced a single one. I am nothing but a preprogrammed replication of the original, Alex- what you would term a swindler or a cheat!" "Listen, Alexandra Reilly, that may be how you came into being this time around, but I've learned from firsthand experience that what we are on the outside doesn't matter as much as who or what we are on the inside!" Alex looked at me in confusion. "Look at it this way. I'm a woman now, true, but I still have all the knowledge, experiences, and memories of my original self- Alexander Steinert. Sure...I behave and am treated differently now, but inside...inside I'm still me, Alex! All of that combined with what I have become only develops me further as a person. It doesn't make me a fraud or flim-flam man...er, woman! Past and future- they all come together to define me- me- Alexandra Steinert. I'm a far cry from my original, Alexandra Reilly- in essence I'm an improved version...as are you." "If I did not know better, I could verify your lineage back to the Homeworld! How is it your technology is so far behind, but your cognitive thought processes are so advanced, Alexandra?" "I figure it hasta' do with my upbringin'. Ma an' Pa continuously impressed upon me an' Brie the importance of good clean livin'- of treatin' others with the same respect we expected from them. I've never thought twice about doin' harm to other..." "Yet there are those times, Empress. We cannot let those unacknowledged thoughts darken our core personality." Before I could ask how she knew, she placed her two pointer fingers together at their tips. I nodded my understanding. "At least you have physically experienced most of your memories, Empress. I fear that everything but the last one hundred and sixty years has been nothing but virtual- a...um...a dream...a fantasy." She countered. "In a way, when I think of Cassie and Samantha, I have similar thoughts..." A serene smile momentarily appeared...on both our faces. I again nodded in acknowledgement. "I haven't made those memories yet, Alex Reilly, but that doesn't make them any less mine! I welcome you to make those and other memories you've received from Allie and I, your own. By recalling them and learning from them you can only better yourself. That's what Allie meant when she said you were 'rough around the edges'. You haven't really experienced life yet- life outside a controlled environment, that is. Think of how it was on your planet...before...before its demise." Memories of her Homeworld arose in my mind. Though technically advanced, it had been a very beautiful world, not unlike my cherished Missouri. Information leading up to its destruction, though, did not surface in my recollection. Maybe she didn't know what happened on her world. I decided not to pry. "There you two are! Hey, sis, I think we'd better head home. I've had about enough adventure this visit. What's wrong, honey?" "Nothing..." I quickly wiped my eyes as I answered. "Alex and I were just talking about her Homeworld..." "Oh...ya...beautiful place...wasn't it?" Moisture began presenting itself from Allie's eyes now. She took a minute to compose herself. "Anyhow, I reckon I should get back to good ol' 2026, young Alex is probably sick with worry! Alex, you're more than welcome to come to the future with us- I'm sure you would find it fascinating!" Allie turned her attention to Alex Reilly. I smiled at my future self's lame excuse. "Thank you, my sister, but I must return to my own time also. We have plenty to do there at our new domic...home. And what if my abilities should be requested somewhere in that time? If I remain here much longer, it may be too late for diversion." Allie and I started laughing at her polite decline of Allie's offer. "Why the frivolity; is my logic faulty?" Allie recovered first. "Empress, ye have all the time in the world, Lass!" Allie's use of a Scottish accent escaped me, but she sounded sincere nonetheless. Alex Reilly cocked her head. "What my future self means Empress, is that you forget you can return to the exact time of your departure...if you wish. We are the only person on this planet- in this dimension...this universe, capable of such a feat- that I know of!" I explained. "Like I said, sis, rough around the edges." Allie winked with a slight smile. "No worse than I was at first! She at least has me for guidance. Who did I have?" I thought back to a few scant weeks ago. "Alexandra Steinert! You've always had me watching your back, or did that never occur to you?" "You sneaky bitch! You were behind everything?" Allie raised her hands as if blocking an angry advance. "Not everything, Empress. What happened the last few days went entirely and way off script! This meeting the ancestors' thing...never happened as I remember! In fact, none of us predicted your trip to and subsequent rescue of Reilly, sis! I figure Mina is still wracking her brains trying to figure out just how she missed that one! It's as if we did a major rewrite of our dimension; that or we just diverged and created a new one! I'll leave that up for you to decide though, sis. As far as I know though, my memories of everything up to this point haven't changed. As worried as I was with all this happening, I'm...I'm comfortable with it." "Sweetheart, we're ready." Brandon announced in a sad tone from behind us. He, Spencer, Amelia, Cassie, Samantha, Joss, and Lynn stood there with their duffles shouldered. "One minute, honey. I just want to say goodbye." He nodded. "I'm going to miss you, sis! As far as I remember it, we don't see each other again until after these two are born." She thumbed back to our daughters. "Take good care of Sanford. You're really going to fall hard for him! I'll tell him about us a week before we get hitched, but you already know that." Allie's tears appeared in earnest now as we hugged each other. "Oh, Alex, I'm going to miss you, hon! Y'all take care now! Empress, you take care too!" She stepped away from me, wiped her eyes, and embraced Alex Reilly. "Mom, we'll see each other again! Don't let mom delude you, there will be many, many happy visits in the future." Cassie approached and we embraced tightly. "And I'll miss you to, sweetheart!" I kissed her forehead. She too moved away from me, hugged Alex, and took a spot next to Allie. "Cassie's right, mom. There will be lots more times we all get together! Empress, be well!" She too gave me a bear hug and received a kiss. Sam repeated her goodbye to Alex. "Captain Steinert, I have enjoyed our time together immensely! Thanks to our little side trip to Pearl, I have a better understanding of the events of that day! Please don't be a stranger in our time, Alexandra Steinert! I will miss my wife's twin sister and her friends with all my heart!" Brandon looked back to Allie as if asking for permission of some kind. Allie just closed her eyes momentarily, which made two more tears cascade down her face. "Captain!" Brandon saluted, "it has been an honor serving with you, ma'am!" I returned his salute and offered my hand. "Mine as well, Lieutenant." He refused to release my hand instead, he pulled me close, wrapped his arms around me, and planted a wonderful...fantastic...oh, God, what a kiss! I heard Allie clear her throat. Applause erupted from our small group, Cassie whistling loudly. "You! Over here! Now!" Allie enunciated slowly- she was having a hard time holding back her mock anger and her smile. Brandon made sure I had my balance before releasing me and returning to Allie's side. Amelia was next to say goodbye. "Alex, you're welcome at the Condo any time, sis! Just contact Brie in our time to give us a heads up. Take care now." I nodded and we embraced. "Alexandra, this has been the most exciting experience ever! I look forward to your next visit and regard our parting with a heavy heart! Until next time, Empress!" Spencer hugged me and kissed my cheek. At this point, had I been wearing makeup, I would have looked like a first class train wreck! "Skipper, we had a really nice time! I'd almost forgotten the good times we had here. Don't forget to look us up sometime, okay?" "Jack." Now it was my turn to give a big bear hug. "I'm going to miss you and Ricky Lynn the most I think!" "But Skip, we're still here with ya! How can ya miss us if we ain't left?" Lynn sounded exasperated. "I thought by now you would have figured this time travel thing out, Ricky Lynn. I know you two are still here, but we'll," I motioned between the three of us, "we'll be eighty-two years apart! That's a huge distance even with time travel! You two take care and tell Carroll I'm so happy for her! I'll get something for the baby next time I'm there!" "Aye, Skipper." "Ladies?" "Right, Admiral." Jack and Lynn stepped over next to Allie- the eight then joining hands. On an impulse, both Alex Reilly and I fell to one knee. "Until we meet again, Empress, travel well!" We said in unison. "Knock it off, you two!" Allie growled. We both smiled. "Ready everyone?" Allie asked and received seven nods. "Alex, I'm sorry about Cindy, it was a good try though." That was the last thing Allie said before they disappeared. "You're not going to tell her!" Alex looked to me in disbelief after a few minutes of waiting. "Nope! She has to have some surprises, Alex. What would the world be like without surprises?" "She can see the future as well as you or I, you know." "I'm counting on it, in fact, I'm hoping she tries real hard, Alex!" Alex Reilly cocked her head in confusion. "All part of the plan...and the surprise." I giggled. "So, now that we've blown your excuse for a quick return to Kili out of the water, you're welcome to stay as long as you wish, Empress. Could I interest you in a little sunbathing on our wonderful beach? I just happen to have an extra swimsuit." "That miniscule covering you call a bikini? Why I haven't been that exposed in over nine...wait, I've never been that exposed in my life! When do we start?" "Empress, may we, the past and present reigning monarch's of Kili join you?" Mina's voice startled me awake. I found myself lying face down on my blanket, my top untied. When had I done that? I glanced over to Alex Reilly. She looked to be still sound asleep on her back. "By all means, your highness'. I think there's enough room for two more." I replied as I looked up at her and Billie. Both wore colorful, flowered print two-piece bathers that looked identical to what she wore on our initial visit to Kili. "You two look very nice, Mina." "Thank you Alexandra, you both look...very...um...very...relaxed." "I think they both look extremely captivating, Mina." Billie complimented. "Yes, I expect that you would, your majesty!" "Don't mind her Billie, Mina was raised in a time where display of one's physical attributes was frowned upon- floor length dresses; high, starched collars; tight, breath-constricting corsets; and large bustles were all the rage- plus, she's British!" I giggled. "I never wore such fittings, I'll have you know!" She growled as she spread her towel on the warm pristine sand beside me. "Not the first time around, at least!" I commented. "Nor do I look forward to it the second or third time, Alexandra!" "Hey, if I have to, you have to, your highness! If we want to blend in..." I let it drop. "What are you two talking about?" Billie asked from the other side of Mina. "Mina and I will be traveling back to the 1800's in a few weeks. In order to draw as little attention as possible, we must obtain and wear period clothing. As I've said, the style of that time period is a bit...um...confining- especially for women." "Like this event you call 'Halloween', Alexandra? Hearing your descriptions, images of people in costume filled my mind." Alex Reilly said as she rolled to her side and squinted at us. I don't think she even noticed that one side of her top stayed on her blanket. Ignoring the display, I set her recollection straight. "Those are Allie's memories, Alex. At this point in American society, we don't make such a big deal of Halloween- that comes about later, but yes you're right, similar to Halloween in that we dress in costume." "I would like to go to these 1800's of yours, Alexandra." "You might be a little busy by then, Miss Reilly." "So you have said. As I have told you, I haven't seen that yet. I was not aware I possessed that ability before we left Reilly...I mean Kili, Empress." "Trust me, you'll find great pleasure in it, Alex!" "You are the consummate tease, Alexandra!" "Thank you, Mina!" "Hi! Would it be socially acceptable that I darken my outermost layer also? Chief Ricky Lynn has allowed me use of her redundant...um...bikini." "It is called sunbathing, Camille of Reilly, and the answer is yes. Deploy your auxilliary covering on the temperate, loosely compressed, powdered silica next to me and recline!" Alex Reilly replied. "Unfortunately, I am without any auxilliary covering, Empress. May I coexist with you?" Alex sighed. "Affirmative." She sounded slightly annoyed. "The ancestor's really talk funny, don't they Mina?" I giggled as I re- tied my top and turned over. "No worse than some of the dialects I've heard in my travels, Alexandra." "Speaking of which, you should hear how they talk in 2026! Did you know that 'fat' and 'sick' lose their negative connotation and become positive descriptive there?" "All the more reason not to travel beyond one's barrier, Alexandra!" Mina decreed with a little annoyance. I looked over at her wondering where that had come from. Mina's attitude had changed since we returned to 1944 yesterday. "Spill it, your highness! What's got you so distressed?" "Did I say I was distressed, Alexandra? I don't recall saying anything of the kind!" "Knock it off, Mina! You've been acting strange since we got back to base! I thought you might want to talk about it, that's all. If you don't, that's fine too." After several minutes of silence, I was beginning to think she actually might not want to discuss things. "The future Empress has told you everything you need to know, Captain. Discussion of my fate is unnecessary." "For the record, your highness, Allie didn't have to tell me a thing! As soon as we arrived on Kili in 2027BC, I started seeing the future- your future, ma'am. I am deeply saddened by your lack of trust in me, Mina. I would never break a vow I've made to a friend or relative. I would just assume die first!" "You saw that far into my future...over almost four thousand years?" "Does that surprise you, sister? You, yourself saw our merging futures decades ago!" I paused. "Think about what is time to me now, your highness- an arbitrary point; a variable? For Alex and I time is no longer the ultimate constant; it is more like this beach. Each grain of sand is like a possible stopping point in a vast pool called time. Changing dimensions is no more arduous than walking to the other side of this island...to another beach. Moving between universes, like flying to another island! In short, my sister, no distance is too great- especially where my family is involved." Again we were all silent for a while. "And you're comfortable with my decision?" She finally asked. "I never said that, but it is your choice to make! I have no option but to oblige, Mina. I could fight you tooth and nail on this, and I could give you many valid reasons to change your mind, but in the end it would only be selfish of me to keep you here. Remember, I have vowed to take care of my friends and family, not control them!" "So, you have learned...learned to examine every crevasse and eddy- every little fleck of the future as it pertains to your proposed actions? I thought you too impulsive...too reckless yet, Alexandra." "Your highness, being pulled into another universe against your will; shocked back to life on a cold, hard floor- naked; waking to an old, worn out reflection in the mirror; then suddenly becoming responsible for a hundred unknown lives; resuming an indeterminate plan to rescue said number before their sun devours them; oh, and then there is the small matter of completely moving a large complex from one universe to another and moving it a second time within the confines of Earth to Kili; What about all that isn't impulsive or reckless?" I just looked at her with a raised eyebrow waiting for some well thought response to the contrary. "Sometimes we must push reason and logic aside and simply rely on our intuition, Alexandra! In saving Reilly, you made that difficult decision. That is the defining moment between student and instructor. You have exceeded my expectations...as I knew you would." "So why the sour grapes about traveling past your 'boundry', Mina? I've proven again and again that to do so is safe. What is so disturbing about seeing past your own lifespan?" "I am afraid it may influence my decision, Alexandra." "To use one of your expressions, Mina. Poppycock!" "Excuse me?" "Poppycock! There is nothing stopping you from visiting our future, your highness...nothing at all! With your added gift of transcommunication, all you have to do is call me...let me know that you want to visit. I'm nothing more than a thought away, my worrisome sister." "Empress, are you sure your inception was not on the Homeworld?" Alex Reilly questioned me as she rose and rested upright on her elbows, still not noticing her dangling top. Camille pushed herself up to sitting by one arm behind her. "Alex is right, Empress. Your reason and compassion are ubiquitous in our stories. If you have never visited the Homeworld, how have they been conceived?" "Why would you think I traveled between universes, Cami? Your Alex would be better equipped to inspire myths of the Empress. She is more familiar with the Homeworld than me." "Because you are the only one I know to accomplish such a feat. You possess the wisdom and compassion, Empress...you, not Alex. She has much to learn from you." "Thank you for your confidence, Camille Darough of Reilly! Janelle Hathor would show me more compassion! I am not that much of a tyrant am I?" "You misunderstand, Alex. You are indeed the Empress, but as the future Empress has declared, you are very irregular around the perimeter." "That's 'rough around the edges', Cami!" I rolled my eyes and looked toward Mina for strength. My attention instead turned to four figures leaving the tree line. To my surprise one of the figures turned out to be Scotti Williams. She, Josie, Tish and Random joined us on the warm sand. "Miss Williams, this is a pleasant turn of events. How did Josie manage to talk you into such an 'un-Corp-like soir?e," I asked after they had settled onto their blankets? Scotti frowned at me in silence for a few minutes or so. "It didn't take much, Captain." Josie answered for her. "I simply overheard her complaining about the heat and showed her how to make a bathing suit out of her blouse and a pair of shorts. After that I invited her, Tish, and Randi here." "You mean you had Cmdr. Cummins use her powers to dress me in this...this...and force me to come here!" Sandra 'Scotti' Williams protested through clinched teeth. "No, she didn't, Scotti! I changed your clothes for you, but I didn't force you to this beach!" Jack spoke as she appeared at the tree line wearing her bikini and prepared to do some sunbathing. "Such a wonderful day for a tan, don't you think, ladies?" "This is almost as embarrassing as those things you people call coverings!" Scotti hissed once more. "Instead of Sandi we should have called you 'Beachy'!" Jack giggled as she casually turned on her tummy and gracefully reached back to untie her top. "How can you be so nonchalant? Have you no shame, Commander?" I noticed her suddenly stare at Alex Reilly. "Scotti, if you had gone to the future with the Empress, you would have been branded a prude! I suggest you stop wallowing in self-righteousness and self-pity and start soaking up this wonderful sunshine! Don't make me throw you into that surf, Sergeant!" "I'm not a sergeant any more, remember? The Admiral and Major gave me a field commission to Lieutenant." "All the more reason to throw you into the drink, Lieutenant Williams, your mine now, my pretty!" I cackled maniacally. "How can you..." "Miss Williams?" "Skipper?" "Miss Williams, I suggest you quit while you're still dry." "But Skipper, you can't..." "Scotti, can you absolutely say, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that laying here does not elicit some form of relaxation?" "It does...but that's not the poi..." "Does it or doesn't it feel refreshing, Lieutenant?" "It does, Skipper, but..." "Stow it, marine! The rest of us prefer to relax here in silence or with at least pleasant conversation! Complaints can be formally expressed when I'm back on duty! Is that clear, Miss Williams?" "Aye, Skipper." "Good! Now can we just lay here and enjoy the sun before you go and scare it away, lieutenant?" "Aye, Skipper" "Well done, Alex, I couldn't have done better myself!" "I am you, Empress." "I must disagree, Empress. Alex Reilly may be genetically identical, but she is deficit your experience." Camille asserted. "We've already been through that Cami! What is so wrong about just laying here soaking up some rays?" "Rays, Alexandra?" "Twenty-first century slang, Mina. If you wouldn't be so deadset against the trip, we could show you the sights and sounds." "Possibly. Can we return to sunbathing, Alexandra?" Jack tapping me on my shoulder brought me back from a wonderful daydream. "Sorry, Alex, but take a glance over at Lt. Williams." She whispered. Rising to my elbows, I looked over to where Scotti had spread out her blanket. It was empty. "Where'd she go? You didn't..." "No, Cap, she's still there, you just can't see her." "Her gift?" I whispered back staring more intently at the seemingly unattended blanket. "I'm surprised you didn't see this, Cap." "I've been a little busy lately, Jack! Lt. William's rebellious attitude has gotten old to the point of being ignored." An annoying sand fly that had been bothering each of us in succession hovered then landed in mid-air on some unseen surface. A quiet smack was heard and the fly suddenly flattened, but nothing was seen that was capable of such action. Slowly the form of a woman lying on her side started to appear, translucent at first then becoming solid. Scotti Williams began to move as she woke up from her slumber. She sat up and looked around. "Okay, what did I do wrong now?!" She asked as she noticed every eye of our small group fixed on her. "You told me to relax...I did...so what's so damn fascinating about me doing that?" "Jack, show her what we just saw." I suggested. "Show me what?" She got no answer. "Show me wha...you just made that up, Commander! I can't do tha..." Scotti's eyes grew big as she lifted her hand to reveal the squashed sand fly in her palm. "Ewww!" She immediately wiped the remains off on her blanket. "So?" I raised an eyebrow at her. "So...so...so how'd I do that?" "You tell us, Miss Williams!" "I have no idea, I..." She frowned in confusion as she tried to think of any possible solution. "She was dreaming of meeting her father, Alex. She just kept repeating that she didn't want to be here...there- hoping that he wouldn't see her!" Jack informed us. "You're not supposed to be peeping into my dreams, Commander! Those are private!" I laughed at her statement. "Had she not been looking after you, Lieutenant, we might have been forming a search party for you at this very moment!" I exclaimed. "Try to do it again, Scotti." "I don't know how!" "Try thinking you don't want to be here- that you don't want to be seen, it worked in your dream once." I suggested. "I really don't want to be here though, Skipper! I definitely don't want to be seen in this!" Scotti seemed to fade out as she spoke; her last few words seemed to come from thin air. "Oh, God! I'm desolving! I can't see myself! Help me! Help me, please!" "Miss Williams, please settle down and rejoin us, would you?" I said calmly. "How? How do I do it?" Her frantic voice cried out. "Maybe try wanting to be here; that would be my guess." Slowly she returned to solid, looking at her hands in amazement while doing so. "My word, the invisible woman!" Mina chimed out. "Yet another fiction classic becomes fact." "Let's hope Vampires stay fiction!" Jack retorted. "I'm afraid they'll surface in the following decades, Jack! They'll call themselves divorce lawyers." I laughed at my own joke despite the confused looks I received. Sandra Williams practiced her gift many times before satisfying her curiosity and resuming her sunbathing. Josie watched in fascination the whole time. I noticed the slightest bit of disappointment come over her. "Josie, you'll receive your gift. It may take some time, but I promise, you'll enjoy it immensely!" She immediately looked conspiratorially over to Jack, who shook her head in denial. "Not this time Josie!" She pointed to me instead. "May I ask when, Captain?" She asked with a neutral expression. "Give it a month or two, Josie." I smiled. A huge smile broke out on her face, as she lay back down happy for my confirmation. "Breaking the rules again, Alexandra?" Mina smiled at me with a raised eyebrow. "As often as I can, your highness...and wherever I can!" I smiled back and nine out of ten of us giggled. "By the way, Scotti, don't use that gift to sneak into the women's showers! We've heard how you marines are!" Sandra Williams has a very nice laugh and one amazing smile when she chooses to show it- despite the very red face and equally red head of hair! Several hours later, Jack entered my office. Sunbathing had completed its intended purpose- to make me regret having to resume my job as base commander! "Alex, we need to pay a visit to the six. They've been locked up in the brig almost twenty-four hours now, or is this part of your plan?" "Didn't that sun feel marvelous this morning, Jack?" I asked as I stretched in my chair. "Don't go all soft on me, Cap! We need to discuss the six! We can't leave them there indefinitely, you know." Jack looked cute when she was being serious. "I know we can't, Jack! I just hate to see this happen. I've tried to find some way of avoiding the outcome, but I see no clear way around it." I told her, shaking my head slightly. "How many, Alex?" "How many?" "How many do we lose in the process? You know, how many die?" "Jack, no one dies. They make it safely to the dock where...I...you and I that is...where we take them...home." "What happens to me then, Empress?" "Nothing...nothing happens to you, Jack." I knew better than to hide the future from her. The blonde's eyes widening spoke volumes. She had clearly seen every detail the next day would hold for us. My Ex-O simply closed her eyes, nodded, and accepted the fact that she would be experiencing probably the worst day in her life. "Let's get this over with then." I said as I stood, walked around my desk, and together Jack and I walked out of my office heading for the brig. "Remember, Jack, Tish is protected at all cost!" "Aye, Cap." I began to steel myself for our encounter. "And you're sure there is no other way, Alex?" I simply sighed in answer. 1313 hours, Ni'ihau, Hawaii, May 9th, 1944 As we neared the building housing the brig, Jack and I heard a number of high-pitched voices screaming at each other. Understanding only 'cursing' Japanese, I had little idea what was being said- with the exception of certain curses, of course. We opened the door to an old-fashioned Japanese hen fight! Tish was on our side of the bars trying to get the six women on the other side to stop kicking, scratching, biting, and hair-pulling each other. If I hadn't seen this to be a setup, I would have really believed it! Looking at Jack, I asked the one question I had been dreading for three days. "Are you ready, Jack?" She took a big breath, looked at me, and nodded once. Immediately all six squabbling Japanese women separated and flew to different spots on the walls of the cell. Tish quickly turned in our direction. "Thank you, Commander; they were getting out of hand!" "What were they fighting for, Tish?" I asked. "They blame each other for their circumstances, Captain. This has been going on all morning!" Just then, one of the girls said something I'd rather not repeat and Jack's head snapped back as if hit with an invisible fist. She fell to the floor unconscious, the six in the cell dropped to the floor instantly. The same girl looked surprised for a second then figured out what had happened. She said something to the others. "Tish, run! That's an order!" I shouted despite knowing she didn't stand a chance. "How did they do that, Alexandra-sensei?" That was the last thing she said before the cell door flew open and Tish hit the wall hard. Her unconscious body crumpled to the floor as six confused women walked, unrestricted from the holding cell. Taking Jack's sidearm, I was told in Japanese that I was their prisoner. I hate knowing the future sometimes! The 'Reilly' suit I had on under my uniform started translating also. 'Empress! I have been monitoring you. Do you require assistance?' Cami asked in my mind. 'No, Cami, this whole situation has been foreseen. Stay where you are and keep everyone clear of the dock. That is my wish, Camille Darough of Reilly!' 'As you desire, Empress. I have informed Alex and she concurs. We are 'making a path' for you and your prisoners.' Came her reply. 'I'm their prisoner, Cami, not the other way around!' I thought back. 'But you can...' 'They don't know that yet. I will not reveal my gift until the time is right.' 'Acknowledged, Empress.' Cami ended our conversation. The business end of Jack's Colt pushing harder into the nape of my neck indicated I was not moving fast enough for their liking. I now had my hands tied behind me and was being directed across the base to our dock. Tish was being carried by two of the girls while the other four made sure I didn't do anything heroic. True to her word, Cami had effectively cleared the way and I saw no sign of any personnel. Still, Cami was going to get a shock. Thirty yards from the first plank, Jack's Colt suddenly jerked back, firing one round into the air as it left its abductor's hand, and flew off into the underbrush. My bindings came loose and fell to the ground. To her credit, Camille made a good try of it. Looking angrier than a raccoon surrounded by a pack of hound dogs, she appeared in our path. Her concentration was very evident. "Release her at once!" She growled just before she doubled over in pain a dozen feet to the right of her original position. Gasping for air even in my mind, she apologized for not heeding my wishes. Tish started to regain consciousness and began squirming. She was allowed to stand and was quickly subdued, her hands being held behind her. So far, all according to plan, I thought. "Tish, ask them how they presume to get off the island. We have no boat on reserve." I had given orders to not reveal our hi-tech clothing. The six argued back and forth for several minutes before one of them- the leader, I presume, spoke. "They were unaware of that Captain. They expected Sand Dollar to be tied up here." "Tell them the boat is on a mission right now. If they want to wait a few days..." Again all six squabbled back and forth before their leader spoke once more. "Captain, they know you have some special powers! I'm not sure how they know that. They say you can take them home, sensei." The girl on her left made a gesture that, if acted on, would have snapped Tish's neck! I raised my hands in surrender. "Alright! Tell them I'll take them anywhere they like- just don't hurt you, Tish. Exact translation please." I nodded slightly. Glancing quickly in Cami's direction, I saw that she was no longer there. A slight tingle at the back of my neck told me that everything was ready. "Where do they want to go, Tish?" Again all six squabbled a few seconds before one answered. "They want safe passage to Hiroshima, sensei! From there they will disperse." "Fine. Tell them to join hands and have one of them touch me. Tell them not to let go until told to do so, Tish." After looking at each other in confusion, they joined hands and their leader, the shortest of the six, took a firm hold of my left wrist. "You are not seriously taking them to the homeland, Alex-sensei!" Again I nodded once. I could not hold back the stray tear that escaped my eye. "I'm sorry for this, Tish!" I apologized, as the bright tropical vegetation of our island paradise became an arid, wind-blown, post- apocalyptic wasteland. Remnants of buildings nearly razed to the ground surrounded us. Melted masses of what could have been steel poles, probably streetlights at one time, bent at ground level stood witness to the savage heat this area had endured. Next to us the last vestige of a wall displayed the faint silhouette of some unfortunate soul caught off guard by the terrific blast. I was the only one of us that understood the desolate landscape. Tish immediately looked at me. I could hold back my tears no longer. "Sensei, how far in the future are we?" "Hiroshima, Japan, September, 1945. I'm so sorry Tish...I'm so very sorry!" I said as I bowed my head in sorrow. "That's impossible! Such destruction! What kind of attack would do such damage, Captain?" She took a good look around us and then looked back to me with a pleading look. "One...one bomb. One...atomic...bomb." I sniffled. "Can it be stopped from happening?" "It has already happened here, Tish, so no. If we can get back to the past, then maybe." It hurt so much to lie to her. "My home?" I shook my head. "My family?" "Everything...everyone...gone." Tears freely cascaded from the cheeks of my lowered head. "You must stop this, sensei!" Tish then screamed something in her native tongue; her voice echoed without resistance from all around us. Our six captors quieted a moment then began squabbling again. "They want you to take them somewhere safe, sensei!" "Have them hold on again, Tish." It was time to spring my trap- and to go for distance! I concentrated on the location seen in my premonitions. This would be the farthest jump I had ever attempted. If successful, more than one boundary would be crossed this day! Should we actually arrive on target and not die instantly, I would prove to myself forevermore that I was Mina's famed Empress. "Tish, this trip may take a little longer than normal. You may want to close your eyes, my sisters." She did as asked and I pulled the trigger figuratively. As with my unexpected travel to Reilly a few days before, our small group collapsed into me and everything went black for an instant. This time however, the pinpoints of light I called stars stayed somewhat fixed, moving slightly to port as our destination centered in my vision. Like before, the stars focused and congealed into galaxies, separating into individual stars again a second later. A single star brightened and began growing larger. Within seconds I could tell this star was not our beloved yellow sun, but a smaller one with a bluish-white hue. Moving closer, I was relieved to see that this sun was not our ultimate destination, but moved slightly to starboard allowing us passage as we made a slight course correction. Presently, a small, mostly beige planet came into view and began growing in size, revealing a strange unfamiliar landmass as we moved closer. After blacking out once more, my vision slowly focused on a lush jungle landscape. All about us strange vegetation grew tall and thick. Strange sounds filled my ears as I kept us phased out just in case. "Tish, don't let go. I haven't rephased us yet. Just tell our captors that we have arrived 'someplace safe'. Don't include any other information, please." Doing as told, she looked back to me. "Where are we, Alexandra-sensei, these surroundings are unlike anything I have ever seen?" "That's because you've never been to another planet before, Takashi- chan!" I answered while fighting an increasingly urgent yawn. I felt drained from the trip, but asked myself how far away from Earth this place was. 'Randi says one hundred eight of your light-years from Earth, Alex. How did you find such a beautiful place?' 'Quiet, Cami! You're not to reveal yourself yet!' I thought to her as the yawn I had fought to hold finally escaped my mouth. 'Cap, we have motion eighty clicks at nine o'clock!' 'Continue radio silence, Commander!' 'Aye!' A loud, high-pitched shriek filled the air from the direction Jack had indicated. Goose bumps immediately filled every square inch of my skin; my heart doubled its beat rate instantly- as it had in my vision. Our six captors stopped their squabbling instantly and began scanning for the frightening sound's originator. "Alex, move you're group off to the right and standby" I said aloud. Tish's eyes widened immediately. "You knew, Sensei?" I nodded slightly in reply. A devious smile crept onto my face. "Will they be safe here, sensei?" "Perfectly, Takashi-chan. They will be right at home here- trust me." "But that noise! It sounded big and angry!" "Sounds and size can be deceiving, sisters. Do not assume animosity should we be approached. It is only a display of dominance and territory. We stand our ground and don't back down." I instructed everyone in earshot. Vegetation could be heard thrashing about seventy or so yards from us and another blood-curdling shriek resonated through the heavy, moisture- laden air. The smallest of our captors, their self-appointed leader, looked deep in concentration as she dug her feet into the ground like a Sumo wrestler facing an opponent. Whatever was coming grew closer! Any second we would be face to face with the most underestimated adversary I'd ever met! "Tish, I'm going to rephase us now. This thing can see us either way so stay on your toes, sisters." "How can it see us when..." was all she got out as she suddenly doubled over in pain! That would leave a mark! I awaited the same treatment. Having foreseen the attack did nothing to ready myself for the intense agony I felt next! If everything worked out as envisioned, I would awaken in a warm bed next to my companions...minus the six. Trying not to cry out, I allowed the blackness to quickly over take me- a welcome release from the intense searing pain I was experiencing. "Alex! Alex, wake up! Alex!" Jack's voice called out to me as consciousness reasserted itself. My entire midsection felt as if I had been used as a punching bag! The pain I had experienced earlier returned, though somewhat diminished. I assumed a fetal position, pulling my knees into my chest in order to ease the extreme discomfort. A loud moan escaped my lips. "Cami, can you do to the Captain, what you did to us?" "I'll try, Jacki, I'm already compensating for the five of us now!" My pain ebbed to a manageable throbbing. "Thank you Cami, that feels much better." "You are quite welcome, Empress." Five different people 'shushed' her at once. "First rule when captured, Cami, is to not disclose details to the enemy! Name, rank, serial number, that's all that's required." "Like your repetitive statements shortly after you woke up on Reilly!" "Ya, exactly! Now pipe down before they hear us!" "It doesn't matter, Cap, they're tuned into our every thought." "I know, Jack. You and Cami might want to stop listening for a minute." "Alex is right, Camille. Shut her mind out...unless you want to be sick!" "Acknowledged, Jacquelyn. Ready, Captain." I immediately brought to mind that most horrifying image. Our pain completely vanished! "Way to go, Cap! Now maybe they'll listen. Wait, they're coming. A door sized panel silently slid open before us, two human-like beings entered and the door closed behind them. 'Who are you and how dare you threaten us with such barbaric displays of torture!' I heard in my head. I looked at the two for a moment. Each was approximately four and a half feet tall with three long fingers on each hand. Their bodies were extremely thin- very lanky with almost no muscle tone at all evident on their long arms. These creatures had small reddish colored eyes and practically no hair to speak of, but instead had blotches of forest color hues forming some sort of camouflage. A mouth was barely defined by thin bluish lines I assumed to be lips. All in all, completely opposite from the sounds they produced outside. The intense pain returned and coursed through my body. 'Who are you and why do you threaten us with such images!' "Turn off your own torture techniques and I'll answer your questions! I said as well as thought. The two beings looked at each other and my torture stopped. 'You will answer us now!' "We are innocent travelers and have come from another galaxy; a place we call Earth." 'Why envision such images?' "To make you stop hurting us and hear us out. We were unaware this planet contained so advanced a species. We also did not expect such a rude welcome!" 'You are not innocent travelers! We have seen your plan! You wish to maroon those six uncivilized creatures on our world!' My pain returned. Jack and Cami issued forth a counter attack, which caught our hosts off guard. Both hit the wall behind them with extreme prejudice! Our courageous mind warriors quickly doubled over in pain again. "Stop this!" I screamed, using my pain to maximize my volume. "Stop this at once!" As I had hoped, both beings' hands shot to they're...um...ears...I think. Jack and Cami immediately relaxed. 'I can scream a lot louder if you don't stop hurting us!' I thought to them as loud as I could. I was rewarded with two cold stares- you could almost read into it the 'I dare you'. "All right!" I admitted, "I lied about our motives. We came here hoping our six captors might find a home among your society. They're strong powers would endanger everyone on our world! Rather than have them destroyed on Earth, I thought they might prove worthy citizens of this world- among people whose powers rival their own! That is our true intention." Again the two strange little beings looked at each other. 'You speak the truth. We shall take time to debate your petition, but first a question. You claim these six beings have powers superior to anyone on your world, yet we sense two of you have the power to bring them thousands of units across the universe. Why claim your world devoid of such talents- especially with two others capable of thought warfare in your presence?' "My twin sister and I are the only two capable of such travel. On our world we are referred to as the Empress of Time and Space. We are peaceful travelers, dedicated to helping our civilization continue its development. Together, we right the wrongs of past, present, and future by using our abilities. Our two sisters are what we call Mind Warriors and are the only ones remotely capable of containing those six!" 'Your crusade is an honorable one. Our world too, has one so gifted, but without the ability to pass through time. That is a valuable asset indeed. We would think it increases your rate of success. Your Mind Warriors will stand down now and rest.' "They will comply. " I nodded to Jack and Camille as they slowly readjusted themselves on their makeshift cots. I returned my attention to our two hosts. "Our success is not as impressive as you might think. Despite our advantage, many do not heed our warnings. The horrific images you witnessed illustrate such consequences. I'm afraid more severe catastrophes will befall our world before those in power will listen." 'You are not in control of your world?' "Heavens no; I have no taste for political power! I have vowed to help my world any way I can- with or without governmental approval." 'A bold undertaking indeed- one that could possibly result in your untimely demise, Empress of Time and Space. We will cease our torment and debate the request for asylum of your miscreants. Please rest, someone will attend to your needs. Please do not try to leave as we will be monitoring you, Empress of Time and Space.' "My name is Alexandra Steinert and my sister's name is Alexandra Reilly; we find our title egotistical and aristocratic! We will not attempt escape if you do not set about torturing us again!" 'Rare creatures indeed! Noblity that refuses stature! Such power at your command, yet we sense kindness, grace, and extreme self-control- not only from you, but your companions- extremely valuable among higher order beings. We will return.' "How'd you know they couldn't stand our high pitched screams, Cap?" Jack asked still rubbing her head. "Foresight, Jacquelyn, foresight." Alex Reilly answered. "Oh ya, right." "Sensei, where are the others? Will they be all right?" Tish whispered to me while looking around the room. "They will be fine, Tish, as I said before, they are a better fit on this world than ours. Here they can develop their abilities without fear of harm or retribution. I have no doubt that they are being 'shown' how to behave on this world- being taught what is expected of them." I smiled as I remembered my visions. "Tish, you don't have to whisper by the way, they can hear your thoughts." As we talked, another 'person' walked into the room. Behind it followed two trays, some kind of clear liquid in a translucent container with what looked like small glasses on the first, and some sort of small, rolled, finger-type food neatly arranged on a flat circular dish on the second. "Please, allow us, "I heard Jack and Cami say mentally to our newest host. Its head nodded with the slightest motion and the two trays moved forward stopping at each of our beds momentarily. Each of us poured a glass of liquid and took a couple of the food items. 'The clear liquid is what you call water, it has been sterilized of any biologicals for your protection and the other is a selection of nutritional items we believe will appeal to you- at least our preparer thinks they are appealing.' We all heard in our minds. I began giggling immediately. It appeared that every world had the same attitude for prepared food in the military. "How do you know we are militia?" It asked me. "I have the same rapport with my cooks back on my base. It is sort of a backhanded compliment on my world. That and y'all are in camouflage." I pointed to our newest host. 'Apparently our two worlds are not that different, Captain.' "More alike than you believe, I'm afraid." I winked back. "This reminds me of sushi!" Tish blurted out as she took a bite of a sample. "What is 'sushi', Takashi Moritsu?" Camille asked in confusion. "Sushi is a variety of fish and vegetables cut, prepared, and served raw wrapped in seaweed or lettuce- for example." She held up the strange looking item with a single bite out of it. I bit into one of the items I had taken. "This tastes like a hamburger with all the fixin'- how do you do this?" 'Our 'food' as you call it reacts to the nutritional wants or desires of the individual to whom it is served. Whichever piece you chose it would taste like what you imagine.' "This would be a wonderful addition to the menu back at Reilly; I must get your fabrication data!" Alex bubbled. 'Your sister talks strange, Captain. Is she requesting the recipe?' "Yes. I'm afraid she's been away for a while, but we're working on that." I giggled again. 'It is strange to hear laughter. That noise is what you call laughter, is it not?' "It is! Does it bother you?" 'No. It is of a sufficiently decreased volume as to be tolerable.' If I had to guess, I think our host just smiled. "Are we allowed to get up and move around a little bit or are we confined to these beds?" I inquired. 'What beds, Empress? You have not changed position since your arrival.' I heard in my head. Our room, the beds, everything around us, melted back into the same jungle we had arrived in many hours before. The small frail looking creatures that were our hosts' disappeared- in fact everything had vanished completely as new scenery now appeared. The vegetation around us melted and changed. Trees and manicured shrubs became the landscape. Tall, elegant buildings could be seen reaching for the sky all around us through the new foliage. We were in some sort of park reminiscent of New York City's Central Park. Before us, and in place of the tiny alien creature stood a handsome man, about six-two, wavy brown hair, tastefully dressed, and in his mid twenties. Off to our immediate right, our six captors struggled against four invisible walls like caged animals- apparently, they could neither hear, smell, sense, nor see us. Six more very handsome men of around the same age stood around the imaginary enclosure keeping watch over them. "This has all been just an illusion? Why?" Tish stated as she looked around in disbelief. It was evident she was having problems understanding what was happening. "We were being tested, Tish." I informed her. "They had to know if we meant them harm." "That's some kind of test, Alex! I wonder what they do to their enemies." Jack rubbed her abdomen recalling her earlier torment. "You and Cami...of all people...you two should understand, Jack. The Terrans are telepathic beings. They're main protection is to invade the mind of their opponents- make them reveal their weaknesses." Our newly revealed host stepped toward me with his hand outstretched. "Empress, I am truly sorry for your mistreatment!" I took his proffered hand. "I can assure you that it was necessary in order to, as you said, protect ourselves. Now that we have confirmed your identities and purpose here, we welcome you and your group to Citadel! Your lodgings are being prepared as we speak. I hope you find them comfortable, Alexandra Steinert-Fleming." The man's smile was intoxicating! "I'm not married yet, Tibius- not..." He pulled me into a firm embrace and kissed me. What a kiss! After a few minutes we come up for air and I finished my statement. "Not for another three years, I'm afraid." "Forgive me...I still have trouble with your form of time travel, Empress! If not for the impending nuptials, I would try to gain your heart myself, as the last time we met." Tibius released me, took a step back, and looked at me in curiosity. A brightening of his smile, if possible, signaled me he had tentatively solved his conundrum. "Ah! You are still available! I think I finally understand this dimensional and temporal travel you are so fond of!" The handsome man's face saddened slightly. "Alas, if I were to gain your affections now I would..." He rubbed his head lightly. "I would change the circumstances that first brought you here! And to think I was the fool to announce my understanding! I am no closer to comprehension than I was before!" Tibius lowered his head slightly and shook it gently side to side in defeat. "That is why you need our help, dear friend. You lack the understanding to seduce your women and therefore have lost the ability to...um...love." A small devilish smile appeared on my face. "That is not it at all, beautiful Empress!" Tibius frowned, not comprehending my jab at the absence of women on this planet. "As I told you on your last visit; a failed experiment has caused our folly! We would have no problem seducing our counterparts, if...if any yet remained." Sadness overtook his face again as he thought about it. "That's so sad! In that way our two societies share a similar quandary. You see, Reilly has no men and...you're...oh, I see now." Cami said blushing as she suddenly grasped our purpose here. She motioned to the six incensed hellcats vigorously seeking escape from their invisible cell. "Do you think they will acquiesce, Alex?" I just nodded once with a smile. They had no other choice. The Terrans held the upper hand on abilities, so the six stood no chance of escape. I thought of the life awaiting them here: six women on a planet of several hundred million handsome, virulent, needy, men! They would be treated better than royalty! Competition would be fierce just to catch a glimpse of them! In short, they could command anything of these doomed souls! They would be loved and pampered- completely spoiled! I grew jealous just thinking about the life these women would lead! "Have you had any luck deactivating the nanotechs in your water supply yet, Tibius?" Alex Reilly inquired. "Alas, Empress, we have not! The micros have formed an affinity to all methods of eradication. Every sterilization process fails to eliminate the synthetic plague." Tibius informed Alex Reilly. "That is why I have brought my sisters, my friend! The past Empress, her assistant Camille, and her Comptroller Randi unknowingly created a similar extinction on their world. By combining information and experience, along with teamwork, we may find an answer to your planet's problem!" I pointed to each individual as I introduced her. "Wisdom, grace, and kindness all wrapped up in such a beautiful package! It is a shame you can't stay more than a few days, Alexandra! The things I could show you- the things we could do...again!" I felt my stomach flutter as I recalled my visions of our future, first encounter. Yes, I thought, the things he would show me; the things we would do! The guilt I would feel every time Sandy would look at me for almost six months after my return! Sometimes seeing the future, using Cassie or Sam's terminology, really sucked! Yet who was I to change the future? Granted, I was just the person to do such a thing, but did I have the right to modify my own future? Many questions converged on my mind simultaneously, creating a chaotic scene I stood no chance of deciphering! I tried sorting the deluge; should I actually hold Tibius to his word? How would it affect my children if I refused? Would my marriage to Sanford Fleming suffer? Could I possibly cause a tangent to our timeline? Would any tangent affect friends and family? If our timeline changed, would I be here now? If I decided to stay here in Citadel, would I want to return to Earth? How would that affect things? Where did everyone go? I scanned the area around me. Only Tibius remained. He had seated himself on a bench just a few feet ahead of me, patiently awaiting my return from my internal struggle. "Where did everyone go, Tibius?" "Your six savages have been escorted to a special training facility where they will be educated in our culture, language, and..." he cleared his throat, "edicate. Your entourage, dear Empress, has gone ahead to approve and ready your lodgings. Since you were so consumed by whatever concerns, topics, or multiple debates going on in there..." He gently touched my forehead as he approached; "...I thought it wise to stay behind so you would not return to an empty reality." Now Tibius raised his other hand to quell any response from me. "And before you assume anything, I did not impinge on that raging internal tempest you call your mind. I stand no chance of differentiating any individual thoughts in there, so why try? That is what attracted me to you at our first meeting. You intrigue me, Empress Alexandra!" "I'm sorry for going off into the netherworld like that Tibius, seeing the future can cause extremely confusing conflicts, the answers to which sometimes require a little more concentration than usual." "Standing completely motionless while staring directly ahead for two straight hours is hardly a little more concentration, M'lady. Glancing over my shoulder momentarily would be considered a little more concentration." His smile filled me with heartfelt warmth. "It was that long? I'm truly sorry to have kept you here that long, Tibius. You must have other things you could be doing instead of waiting for some flighty Missouri farm girl to come out of her stupor." "Nothing could be more important than watching such pure beauty contemplate her impact on life!" "I thought you couldn't discern my thoughts, Tibius?" "I can't, but there is someone who can. Alexis, you can come out now, my dear." Tibius looked around us as he called out quietly. "Father, I'm old enough to know when to appear! I was going to do just that in another second!" A young woman's voice said from behind me. I jumped slightly as she spoke. Turning, I looked into a familiar face- a face that reminded me of...of Brianna! My mouth dropped in surprise! A young woman of about seventeen smiled as we made eye contact. About my height, she was clad in a full-length, gold colored, form-fitting, sheath-type dress that sparkled in the brilliant, but waning, white sunlight. Her long, light brown hair was pulled up in some sort of tight vertical curl at the back of her head and held there by two sticks jutting from the top. Chopsticks maybe? Standing there, she exhibited a confident gracefulness of someone much older. "You didn't tell her, father?" She pouted. "I was just getting around to it, Alexis. You know how I fluster around beauty- your mother, especially." Tibius tried to explain apologetically. "Welcome back, mother Alexandra. I have been waiting this day for some time now." The young woman approached and embraced me, placing a gentle kiss on my cheek. "At first I did not understand why you went away, but after receiving my ability, I understood. I was quite shocked to learn you are not of Citadel." "No more shocked than I am right now, honey!" I looked back to Tibius for some explanation with a raised eyebrow. "I'm sorry, Empress Alexandra! We wiped her birth from your memory so that your relationship with your Earth spouse would not become complicated. I will now restore those memories...if you wish." He started to reach for my temples with both hands. My hands moved quickly to stop him. "How long did I spend here last time?" I glared at him as I asked. "Approximately one year; sixteen months, Alexandra my love." His hand moved against mine slightly. I stopped they're advance again. "Empress, you requested I do so. I assure you, I would no sooner intentionally debilitate you than I would purposely plunge a katana into my own abdomen!" He looked at me with such a remorseful, pained expression. "It pained me to remove those memories we shared; the joy and happiness we both felt of our daughter's birth- the first natural birth on Terra in over two hundred years!" The growing sadness radiating from his face hurt me worse than any mental torture they could inflict. Still I held my ground. Did I really want those memories back? Could they adversely affect my future? This time an old friend came to my rescue. The resounding negative helped sway my decision. I yielded to Tibius' offer. A smile appeared as he gently touched my temples. Wonderful memories filled my mind! Images of Tibius and I; the whirlwind tour of Citadel; of Terra; our daughter's birth; all the amazing feelings of holding her for the first time, her first feedings, the way she first looked into my eyes; the not so amazing labor pains. Everything came rushing back- maybe a little too fast. "Father! You made her cry! You said the restoration would not hurt her!" Alexis cried out in alarm. Tibius stood in shock as his hands quickly dropped to his sides. His face again saddened. I quickly reassured both of them. "I'm sorry, honey, I'm afraid the tears are my fault. I wasn't ready for everything to rush back in. Your father didn't hurt me." "I know that, mother. Father is just so gullible! You know he's never stopped thinking of you since you left. How long are you thinking of staying with us this time, mother Empress?" "I'm not sure exactly. Let me consult my gift, honey. With what your father has just given me, I have to recalculate." Again the maelstrom in my brain kicked into high gear. Dozens of questions led to dozens of possible outcomes, which led to dozens of tangents to the timeline- all had to be considered! In the background I heard the young woman's voice. "She's doing it again, isn't she, father?" I had no idea of his reply, instead I continued researching the future. "Welcome back, Empress." Tibius greeted me as I looked around to see that dusk had now fallen- the path we were on gently lit by the soft glow of street lamps. "How can you just stand there so motionless, mother? Don't you get tired?" "I suspect you already know that answer, honey." I looked at her suspiciously in the soft light. "I do, but it never lasts so long for me." "How long do you think it would last if you had not just one world, but the whole of the universe to balance and satisfy? I usually don't contemplate things this long either. Back home things are a lot simpler. Out here...well, let's just say I want to be certain I don't make things worse!" "Alexandra, how could things be worse? You have fulfilled what you promised those forty years ago. You have brought us six chances..." Alexis cleared her throat. Tibius eyed up the girl carefully. "You have brought us several chances for which to save our race! How could that selfless act cause disaster?" "Tibius, if you hadn't been so squeamish and looked into my mind, you would have seen hundreds of pitfalls!" "Mother Empress, you know that we consider personal privacy the ultimate law of Citadel!" "I know nothing of the sort young lady! I haven't been here before! I will arrive here forty of your years ago- ten of my years and three months from now. After your two step-sisters are born!" I thought about what I had just said- about how crazy it sounded. "I'm sorry, you must think I'm insane, but I don't think you two understand how time works for me. As I've told your sisters and Aunts many times before, time is a variable for me. It ceased being a constant the moment I received my gift. If you had experienced it firsthand you would understand the concept." I looked to the ground wondering if I had made any sense or confused them further. "Sometimes even I lose track of where and when I am. That's why our sisters on Earth inform me of the local year, day, date, and time when I appear." I explained hoping that would help. Immediately Alexis fell to one knee. "Welcome to Citadel, Empress! It is 24:31, Climax, Saturian 32nd, 332 of the new age." "It has to be genetic!" I shook and held my head in defeat. "Will you stand up already?" The young girl before me smiled and giggled as she stood. "My daughter, I thought you bowed to no one?" Tibius laughed. "I never said that." "You never needed to." Tibius said seriously. "Mother, do you know what it's like to walk down the street and have every male in sight stare- lusting after you like a pi