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Episode 8 "Promotions" 1400hrs, Atlantis-Minor, July 14th, 1944 "Excuse me, Admiral Demmit, here's our latest mission report along with the Empress' report, sir." I said after knocking on his quarter's door. "That was fast. Come in and have a seat, Alex." Uncle Rick motioned me in. "I took some time before our return to finish it, sir." "Oh?" He said in surprise. His expression dared me to be more specific. I debated about telling him of our side trip to Reilly for additional medical treatment of the survivors. A few of those survivors, Shel's Ma included, had extremities too frostbitten for doctors of the time to save, plus Shel's Ma needed half a day's time in Reilly's hyperbaric chamber. Overall, our survivors' treatment required several days. Anchoring on the western side of Kili near the water treatment discharge port, aka the Mystical River, I had ordered the crew's liberty be confined to inside Reilly. That hadn't presented a problem except to one. Rommie wasn't too happy about being confined, but made the most of it after finding that all but the tips of her tail fluke could be submerged in either spa tub. "Emily had our patients' treatment well in hand, sir, and Ens. Morris proved a very capable assistant to her, but their hypothermic treatment took most of a day. Ens. Simonetti's Ma needed extra treatment for the bends." Demmit remained silent as he began to read through my reports, nodding and changing expressions several times during the two, four-page reads. "Very admirable, Alex, I trust Ens. Marsh suffered no ill effects? No hallucinations?" "Nothing of the sort, Admiral. Rommie has finally found her place in our society. Her self confidence has increased dramatically." I praised. "I see." He answered and began rubbing his forehead slowly. "You list her operational depth at over three hundred and fifty fathoms? That's over two thousand feet, Alex. How did she know her depth, and is diving to that depth even possible?" "Given her estimate of the time she spent in the sinking stern section and some future scientists' estimated descent rates for that section, it is only an approximation, sir. I had Carroll do the math to make sure." Uncle Rick rubbed his forehead even harder. "Is something wrong with either report, Admiral?" "No, Alex. I'm just at odds as to how I can get her a medal." He said in frustration. "Because of your unique situation, I find it impossible to officially show the navy's appreciation by medal or by promotion." "Then do it verbally, sir." I suggested. "But that will only go so far, Alex. What I need is a way to get the honors to her parent's state-side." "Sir, Rommie isn't the only one deserving of a medal or commendation. Michelle deserves one for simply having the courage to bring the mission to your attention in the first place. Then there was the two-hour inquiry about the sinking she sat through while impersonating her mother. Oh...and let's not forget that six hour immigration 'experience' to make sure her Ma wouldn't get deported." "I realize it was a difficult thing for her to do, Alex. Her record to date speaks of a totally different person from the well-behaved young woman you brought to my office four days ago." "I wasn't anywhere near Pearl four days ago, sir." The old man rubbed his face with both hands in frustration. "You're going to drive me into an early grave, Alex!" Demmit warned after staring at me for a moment. "Don't believe that for a second, Uncle." I said mischievously. The old man flashed me a confused glance. "Still, the question remains- how do I reward either of them for their heroism in the line of duty?" "Admiral...um...when did we start including the Empress's missions in with naval operations?" I questioned. "You used my boat to rescue those survivors, didn't you?" I nodded with a slight grin. "Good, I'm glad we understand each other, Alex. Now, what do you foresee I do for these two, well-deserving young ladies?" "Unless I miss my guess, sir, paper work recognizing their heroism will be enroute to the Department of the Navy by week's end. Sir, you do realize that Sand Dollar's crew is already the most posthumously decorated unit of any war?" "Alex, that doesn't even begin to convey the thanks of the people she's helped...me included...and just in the last few months," He said and chuckled. "Thank you, sir, on behalf of the crew." I said as I stood and went to attention. "You all deserve it, Alexandra. Can I offer you a drink?" Uncle Rick said as he nodded then retrieved two glasses from his bar and poured both of us a shot of whiskey. Handing one to me, we clinked glasses and downed the liquor. "So how have you been coping with everything...you know, the changes...that have happened? You seem very well adjusted for it only being four months." The old man asked after an extended period of silence. He was fishing again. "I'm sure you know that it's been a little longer than that for me, Uncle Rick." I said narrowing my eyes at him. "I have a general idea of your new concept of time, Alex, but I'm very curious as to how much time has passed since March...for you that is. I don't mean to pry or be rude..." He said as his eyes lowered to the floor. "I was just wondering how soon I would lose my new niece." He continued sadly. After a few minutes delay, I finally decided that his intent was genuine. "Nine." I answered quietly. "Nine months?" He exclaimed in surprise. His mouth dropped open. "Years," I corrected his assumption, "more or less." The color quickly drained from his face at my admission. "Honey, you have to slow down..." "Emily and I have already had this conversation, Uncle Rick." I interrupted as I held up my hand to stop anything further from him. "I'll tell you the same thing I told her: I'll do what I have to do...for as long as I can. That's all I can guarantee, uncle. I've seen my supposed last days of this existence and can tell you they are a very, very long way off. I placed my hand on my uncle's. "Uncle Rick, you, Emily, and I will have many years together and many fabulous adventures. Don't worry about losing either of us anytime soon though, I promise we'll be here to give you many more headaches." We remained quiet for a few more minutes. "Another shot, honey?" He finally asked. I smiled brightly and held out my glass. 1400hrs, Atlantis-Minor, July 22nd, 1944 "Captain Steinert?" Admiral Demmit shouted as we watched his PBY taxi away. It had been a little over a week since his last visit. "Sir!" I said as I stepped forward and saluted. "Captain, Ensigns Marsh and Simonetti front and center!" "Aye, sir. Marsh, Simonetti, front and center!" I shouted after I did an about face. Two very worried young women hurried through our ranks and stopped in front of me, stood to attention, and saluted. Repeating my previous parade move, I turned and officially announced the two Ensigns. "Admiral Demmit, Ensigns Marsh and Simonetti as requested, sir!" I said as I again saluted my superior. "As you were, Captain." He said returning my salute. I performed a left face, took two steps and then an about face to move to the side. The old man stepped up to Michelle first. "Ens. Simonetti it has been noted that your heroism and courage has been exemplary in the development and implementation of Sand Dollar's latest rescue mission. I understand how difficult it is sometimes to do the right thing despite a history to the contrary, young lady." Michelle blushed profusely, but remained quiet. "In appreciation, the Department of the Navy has authorized me...at my discretion, to promote you in rank. Congratulations, Lt. J. G. Simonetti." The old man offered his hand, but pulled Michelle into a hug as soon as she took it. "I hope you've learned some valuable lessons in the time you've known the Empress, honey. Keep up the good work." He said quietly into her ear before releasing the dazed, teary-eyed, girl. She slowly took a step back and he exchanged her brass bar for a silver one. After the two saluted each other, Demmit sidestepped to stand in front of Romney Marsh. "Ens. Marsh..." He glared at the frail looking young woman. Rommie visibly swallowed hard. She looked on the verge of passing out. "Ens. Marsh, it has come to my attention through the very same mission report that you too showed exemplary courage and heroism in the rescue of nineteen victims of a catastrophic maritime disaster." Demmit paused a moment as the timid girl quickly reached up to rub her neck for a second. She would admit later that her gills had started to emerge from the tension and that a few strands of hair had quickly irritated them. "It has also been noted that after single-handedly rescuing those nineteen souls, you returned to the scene and recovered one more victim...despite the eminent threat posed against your life." Rommie began to smile brightly. Demmit also smiled. "It is my pleasure to inform you that the Navy Cross and the gratitude of the Navy has been sent state-side to your parents. My sincerest thanks to you, Lt. J. G. Marsh, your acts of heroism reflect the drive and dedication of this whole unit toward the successful resolution of this war." Uncle Rick didn't even give Rommie the chance of a handshake; he just pulled her into a tight embrace- placing a kiss on her forehead for good measure. Our new lieutenant countered with a very passionate kiss to his cheek. "Outstanding job, Rommie! You make Capt. Steinert and I very proud to be your commanding officers!" He said as he exchanged her bar. My crew broke out in enthusiastic applause and whistles as Admiral Demmit finished pinning the silver bar to her collar, saluted, and joined the continuing applause. "Capt. Steinert?" He barked after things quieted down. "Sir." "Alex, you have a fine crew here and I hope to award many more commendations to this unit in the future. Keep up the good work." "Aye, sir!" "That's all I have, Captain. I'll be in my quarters until my plane returns from Pearl in the morning." "Aye, sir. Jack, dismiss the crew." "Aye, ma'am. Crew, ah-ten-shun!" She shouted proudly. A devious grin appeared. "There will be a small celebration for Lieutenant's Marsh and Simonetti in the Mess Hall in ten minutes. Moderation and modesty WILL be observed!" Jack shouted and paused a second. "Dismissed!" "Admiral?" I asked before the old man could run off. "Sir, the invitation extends to you also, and we would be honored if you'd attend." "It would be a pleasure, my dear..." I automatically offered my arm to him. "But...I'd like the pleasure of escorting our two new Junior Grade Lieutenants...if you don't mind?" He continued with a wide smile. Walking over to where a mob had formed around Rommie and Michelle, Uncle Rick used his considerable rank to break through and offered his hands to the two popular women. Both smiled and blushed as he said something to them. Jack, Mina, Emily and I hurried off to the Mess Hall to get things ready. "About time you people got here!" Alex Covington growled as we walked into the large room. She was just finishing hanging a banner that said 'Congrats, Rommie and Shel!' "Nice to see you too, sis. Is everything as we've seen it?" "Right down to the twenty year-old Scotch, hun." Ronnie Marsh, Rommie's future self came out of the galley and smiled. "I can't wait to see my face!" "Senator ", I smiled, "Nice to see you again. How are things on the hill?" "As screwed up as ever, Alex...thanks for asking." She laughed as her eyes shot past me. "Alex!" Admiral Demmit barked. "What is the meaning of this?" "A social gathering for entertainment or pleasure; or to observe an event with ceremonies of respect, rejoicing, or festivity." My future twin recited with a deliciously devious smile. Uncle Rick's mouth closed immediately and he glared at her. "You asked, Uncle." She laughed as a glass of caramel colored liquid hovered over to her. Taking it, she handed it to him. "Have a drink, Uncle Rick. You look like you could use a good stiff one." She said continuing to laugh. "Rommie!" Ronnie Marsh screamed shrilly as she rushed her present twin. "Congratulations!" She said enthusiastically as the two embraced. "Bet you never thought you would be hugging yourself...outside an asylum, that is?" Ronnie Marsh laughed. "And the party is just warming up!" I said to myself. "Oh ya, it's going to be a hot one on the ol' island tonight, Alex!" Allie giggled. "Admiral Covington, I assume you were the one to bring Miss Simonetti and her situation to my office a week ago?" Uncle Rick growled. "Sure was, Uncle. It had to be done before Michelle here just withered away to nothin'" I heard a gasp behind me. Michelle had overheard. "Give it a rest Simonetti! She had everything under control." Shel's voice shouted from behind Allie. Megan, that was the name she used on missions to the past like this, walked to her present self and hugged her tightly. "We were never in any real danger of vanishing. The Empress wouldn't allow that to happen, girl!" "Hey!" Dixie Peterson shouted from the galley doors. "Takashi and I spent all day slavin' in the kitchen for this thing, so get your pretty behinds in here and get somethin' to eat!" The aforementioned bottle of Scotch silently floated above the merriment and stopped in front of Uncle Rick. "Thanks, Jacki!" He said taking it, unscrewing the cap, and taking a long slug. "Some party today, huh, sis?" Allie giggled as I finished brushing out her hair. The four of us were sitting in a circle on the Empress' bed. Amelia was still fussing with mine, but Allie had already finished Emily's. Emily on the other hand was still braiding Amelia's. We were like four girls at a sleep over. "I wouldn't want to be in Uncle Rick's shoes in the morning." I giggled back. "Thank goodness for our nanos." Amelia too, giggled. "Sometimes a good drunk is good for the soul though, Alex." Emily giggled lastly. "He'd drink even more if he saw us right now, I'd bet." I added, all four of us giggling like schoolgirls. After another minute or so of laughing, I asked the question that would trigger an all out pillow fight. "So...who's going to wake up with whom tomorrow morning?" "We gotta stop doing that, hun; it's getting way too predictable." "I know, Allie. I wonder if the same is true for Emily." "Morning you two." Both Emily's' chorused as they exited my quarters. I had stayed the night in the Empress' quarters with Allie and let Emily use mine. "So...sleep well, sis?" I asked. Allie giggled. "Not really, Alex, that mattress of yours is too hard!" My Emily complained. "Neither of us got too much sleep." Amelia blushed ever so slightly. "Sorry about that, sis." I apologized instead of calling them on that last statement. The four of us walked together into the mess hall to get some breakfast. "Morning, Admiral, morning, Skipper. Morning, Commander and Lieutenant Scott." Lynn Samuels greeted. "You're usual, Alex?" Allie and I nodded. "Two plates of pancakes with butter and syrup, and two black coffees coming up. Doctor?" Lynn looked at Emily and Amelia. "Tea and toast for me, thanks." Amelia said in reply. Emily looked at her future self. Her gaze fell to Amelia's belly, but only for a second. "I'll have my usual too, Lynn, thanks." Emily replied a moment later and smiled. "I owe you a dollar when we get back to my quarters, sis." I whispered in defeat. "I thought she noticed last night in all honesty. Your Emily is getting better at hiding her personal condition, I see." "Tibius was working with her on that last time we visited New Citadel." Allie whispered back. I nodded. "Spencer or James know yet?" "If James knows he hasn't said anything, sis. We haven't been home long enough for her to tell Spence, but I'm sure Liz and Sarah know." "I see that he should handle the news pretty well- even though she isn't his, he'll treat Alaina no differently." Allie smiled. "I think the others are right about us, sis." She said and paused to look around the large room. "We are a buzz-kill." "Hey, there's our newest Lieutenant!" Lynn shouted in excitement as Rommie and Ronnie Marsh entered. "What'll it be, ladies?" "Sushi, Ricky Lynn." One girl looked at the other in shock. "What is 'sushi'?" Rommie asked her twin with a sickening stare. "Don't worry, its good- you'll see." Ronnie smiled to her twin. "I think Takashi anticipated that. She was working with some seaweed before I came out front. "Seaweed?" Rommie gulped as she began to lose color. Ronnie gently elbowed her twin's side. "We like it, so cut the theatrics. Geez, was I always this pathetic?" "YES," everyone within earshot chorused! Both girls blushed profusely. "Never a dull moment, sis." I giggled as both Allie and I watched the temporal twins sit down and carry on a very dramatic dialog between each other. "Ya, anywhere else and we'd all be locked up in rubber rooms for talking to our selves." Allie giggled. "Especially when we answer our selves." I laughed. "So how long have you hyenas known about my sister?" Emily asked after a minute. Her glare dared one of us to make light of the situation. I went first. "Almost nine and a half years, sis." "Ninety-one for me, sis." Allie answered after she did the math. "So you found out today or maybe last night then?" Emily glared at both of us. "No," I said shaking my head slowly, "I found out just after Mina told us about abusing our gifts, Emily...back in April." "And when did you 'see' you were going to tell me, Alex?" She demanded. "Em, Alex and I had expected you to use your gift to find out, but the simplest answer to that question is..." Allie answered for us both and smiled deviously. "Now." Amelia began laughing hysterically! "I've waited so long to see what I looked like at this moment!" She choked out as she continued laughing. Emily's face went bright red and she began to get up. Amelia's hand shot over and grabbed her twin's arm. "Relax, sis, we wouldn't want Alex to have to fix another tangent in the timeline, would we?" Emily slowly sat back down and her anger was replaced with tears. Amelia gathered her twin into her arms. "I forgot how sensitive I was during the war. I'm sorry, Emily, that was a mean thing to do. Please don't cry." Amelia said quietly, trying to comfort her twin. "So...which one of you ordered the pancakes?" Ricky Lynn asked with a tense smile as she approached with one plate and a cup of steaming coffee in hand. "Is Admiral Demmit in here?" Randi Van Pelt shouted from the mess hall doorway ten minutes later. "He decided to stay in his quarters until...and I quote... 'the temporal chaos has subsided and I can eat without threat of a monumental headache.' Why, what's up Randi?" I asked. As usual I already knew the answer. "I just got a strange transmission from CINCPAC for him, skipper. It's in that baseball code he and Dr. Scott communicate in." "Ya know, Alex, the girls and I should be leaving now." Allie said suddenly as she, Amelia, Ronnie Marsh, Joss Cummins, and Megan Simonetti quickly stood from their seats. Lynn Samuels, Dixie Peterson, and Takashi Moritsu appeared out of the galley and joined them. Our other future sisters quickly crowded into the mess hall and all joined hands with the Empress. "Um...did I say something wrong, Empress?" Randi asked awkwardly as she stood aside to avoid the influx of twin sisters. "No, hun, we just have to go so we can return to give Alex her next assignment." Allie told our comptroller cryptically. "You're going to love this one, sis." Amelia chirped with a huge smile. I nodded in response and grinned back. This would be an interesting mission, but a little cruel to the intended targets. "Until another few minutes, Empress." I giggled. "Until another time, Empress." Allie replied with a smile. The room decreased in occupancy by almost half. Tish walked through the galley doors holding two plates. She seemed oblivious as she placed the plates down before Rommie and bowed to her. "I have prepared a variety for you that I hope you will like, Lt. Marsh." Tish said with a smile before bowing again and returning to the galley. Rommie stared at the food for a moment, her gaze moving quickly from one plate to the other. "How am I going to eat all this?" She asked, poking at the rolled seaweed with the supplied chopsticks. "Is...is this fish?" They probably heard the laughter all the way to Hilo! 0900hrs, Atlantis-Minor, July 23rd, 1944 "Are you sure about this message, Lt. Van Pelt?" "Yes, sir, I authenticated it myself." She answered respectfully. The old man looked at me as if daring me to say something crazy. "The Empress and our future sisters left five minute ago, sir." I answered with a smile. Admiral Demmit's attention moved between me, the paper in his hand, and Randi. "Lieutenant, contact Pearl and tell them to send a plane..." "Admiral, why cut your stay short? I can have you there in the blink of an eye." I offered with a wry smile as I interrupted. "You already know what this is about." He accused. "I wouldn't be a very good Empress if I didn't, uncle." I winked. "Fine." Demmit grumped. "Belay that last order, Lieutenant, I've found another means of transportation." "Aye, sir." Randi stood to attention as she was handed back the message for destruction. She promptly left the Admiral's quarters. "So, do I have time to grab something to...?" The old man smacked his forehead and turned for the door. "What am I saying? 'Do I have time to get something to eat?' Richard these women are going to drive you nuts in..." He mumbled to himself on the way out the door. It brought an immediate smile to my face, but only momentarily. My uncle wouldn't go crazy...he would just pass from this world not knowing any of us and in... I quickly wiped the tears from my eyes and those future memories from my mind. It was heading toward 1000hrs. "Did you have enough to eat, Admiral?" I asked as I approached from the mess hall door. "Yes, thank you, Alex." He looked up at me for a second. "Could you give a hint as to the nature of this meeting we're apparently both going to attend?" "I believe you get to go on a mission with the Empress, sir." I said cheerfully with a bright smile. "That is...if you want the opportunity." My face fell as I saw several scenarios in which he actually declined. Uncle Rick apparently misunderstood my sudden change of expression and stood up. "Oh, Alex..." He said quietly as he reached out and gently took my hand. "I would be honored to accompany the Empress on her next mission. Where are we going this time- Ancient Rome, Greece, the Byzantine Empire, Renaissance Italy? What do I need to pack? Are we going to meet any famous people?" "Pearl Harbor, sir." I said sadly. I hated to burst his bubble of exotic destinations and historic celebrities, but Pearl Harbor circa 2011 was our target for this mission. "I know we have to go to Pearl first, Alex, where is our final destination though?" "I told you, sir, Pearl Harbor is the place." "Oh." Uncle Rick said, disappointed. "We'll be traveling to the year 2011 though, Uncle." "So what important event happens at Pearl Harbor in the year 2011, Alex?" He asked, a lot of disappointment tainting his voice. "A television show, sir." "A television show? What's a television?" "It's a movie theater in your living room, Uncle Rick. You saw one at Reilly earlier this year, remember?" "Oh...right. I guess we should get going then?" He said with little enthusiasm. "We're waiting for our last member to join..." "Hey, Alex...Oh sorry, Admiral. Lt. Cmdr. Jacquelyn Cummins by your request, Captain Steinert." Jack said standing straight and looking at both of us with a tense grin. "Relax, Jack. Uncle Rick is going with us this time." I giggled. "He is? I...I mean...Aye, Ma'am!" Jack really looked cute when she'd been caught off guard. "Let's get going, Jack." I giggled as I held out a hand to each of my travel companions. Admiral Demmit's office appeared around us. "Jack, please close the Admiral's door." I asked, noticing that it was partially opened to his clerk and the outer office. The door slowly and deliberately closed then quietly latched and locked itself. "We can let go now." I said as I rephased us with this reality. "So now what, Alex?" My uncle asked just above a whisper. He nervously stared at the door to the outer office as if his clerk would come barging in at any moment. "Let me know when I should drop my shield, Alex." Jack said with a nervous smile. "Will you relax, Jack? Uncle Rick is here by invitation of the Empress." "Yes, but he's still an Admiral!" "Jacquelyn?" "Yes, sir?" "I'm taking orders from the Empress on this mission, sweetheart. Lord knows she's done enough for me already to deserve that right." "Thank you uncle, that means a lot to me." I said with a nod to him. "So, I'll ask again, what do we do now?" Uncle Rick asked anxiously. "Not even curious as to the current date, uncle?" I teased. "Just tell me what we do now, Alex. I can tell that we're still in 1944 just by the sound of my clerk's typing!" Wow, and I thought I was a...how did Allie put it? Oh, a 'buzz-kill'. "We wait for me to show up, with my companion, sir." "Alex!" "I'm not trying to confuse you, uncle." I told him seriously holding my hands out in self defense. "I should be appearing in three..." I pointed to Jack to drop her acoustic shield. "Two...one." "Hi everyone." Allie greeted as she and Brie appeared in front of us. "We're safe again." Jack announced. "I swear you are going to make me crazy!" Uncle Rick growled and saw how Allie's and my expression dropped. "Why is it you look so sad when I say that, Alex?" "That's not important right now, Uncle Rick." Brie said as she wrapped her arms around our uncle. "I'm just glad to see you, Admiral." While Brianna was greeting our uncle, Jack and I dropped to one knee. "Welcome, Empress. It is 0930, July 23rd, 1944." I stated...for the record...with a giggle. "I'm simply impossible!" Allie griped, throwing her hands up in the air in defeat. "Brianna, I have aspirin in my top right drawer, honey. Could you be a dear and hand me the whole bottle, please?" "Sure thing, Uncle Rick." She laughed. "But these here'll work better an' last longer." My sister reached into her regulation shoulder bag and retrieved a small paper packet. Tearing it open, she dumped two tiny tablets into her hand. "Here ya go," she said, offering them to our uncle. He accepted the pills, but looked at the four of us expectantly. "Oh!" Brie said suddenly as she reached back into her purse and pulled out a one-liter metallic water bottle. "Sorry, sir," she said handing it to him after popping the spout open then looked at Jack and I. "Ah keep stock in NSAIDs. They's the only things that'll help with the temporal headaches ah get when Alex changes things." She explained with a tense smile. After she replaced her bottle, we hugged. Brie repeated her welcome with Jack. "So, Empress, how can the Empress be of service this time?" I asked Allie routinely. "Actually, sis, Ah'm the one makin' the request." Brie answered and looked around the room, embarrassed. "Ricky Lynn asked me ta find somethin' she...um... she lost." "Lost?" I asked, as one eyebrow shot up immediately. My sister turned bright red as she timidly nodded. "Doc Samuels was conductin' an important experiment." She began. Jack and I sighed heavily. "What'd she lose this time, Brie?" I asked in disgust. I noticed Uncle Rick stare at me in horror. "She an' one a her graduate students was workin' in conjunction with the Theoretical Physics department on what she called a Quantum Dimensional Actuator." That name struck a nerve. "Why does that girl insist on puttin' me outta business?" I questioned. I noticed Alex Covington close her eyes and shake her head side to side a few times. "Alex...for those of us that don't have any clue or understanding of such things, what is that and how could it put you out of business?" Admiral Demmit asked. "The QDA is a device capable of replicating the Empress' gift...on a very limited scale though." I answered, recalling Alex Reilly's knowledge base. The Terrans use a variation of it to protect their spacecraft from galactic debris. "Sis, Ricky Lynn claims it 'got away'." Brianna stated anxiously. "Great...just great!" I snapped. "When is that girl gonna learn to leave time travel to the professionals- to those of us with the gift?" I asked, looking at my future self. Allie just closed her eyes again and shrugged with a smirk. "I tried stoppin' her, sis, but y'all know Ricky Lynn!" Allie added. "We think it materializes in one a the hangers at the old seaplane base on Ford." "Old? We just repaired those hangars two years ago." Uncle Rick said setting the record straight. "Sorry uncle, for me it's not an active airfield, but a historical site, and museum for thirty some years." Allie apologized. "Most of the island houses junior officers and some contracted corporations." "Sis, we think the thing appears there sometime in 2011." Brie informed us. "How can you be so sure?" I asked my sister. "I was watching this TV show...Spirit Quest? And in this one episode they investigated Ford Island- specifically the Pacific Aviation Museum- Hangers 37 and 73." Brie informed us, but paused. "Alex, one a the voices they recorded during that investigation sounded like you, Uncle Rick!" The old man's mouth dropped wide open. "But I'm gone by tha..." He started to exclaim, but stopped short of finishing. He looked around at us, as would a child caught with a hand in the cookie jar. "Relax, uncle, Allie, Brie, and I already know that you peeked while at Reilly." I laughed and stared at the man with mock contempt. "I had Randi doctor your file as a precaution." "So, I'm not going to die in 1987?" He asked with a small glimmer of hope. Four of us lowered our heads sadly. "Not technically." Allie whispered. "Speak up, sweetie, I didn't catch that." "I said no...technically." "So what the hell is that suppose to mean?" Demmit growled. "It means no one should know too much about their future...SIR!" Allie growled back in anger as she wiped a few tears away. "And especially when they cross over." She whispered again, sniffing a few more tears back. "Okay..." I said quickly, hoping to stem the previous discussion. "Let's get this briefing started. Where and when, Brie?" "Y'all know the when and where at, Alex." Brie giggled tensely. "I mean for those of us that can't see into the future." "Oh...right. Well, Ricky Lynn...she believed her QDA was set for a two-hour jump into the future, an she expected the thing to reappear during some symposium she was speakin' at on quantum sing'larities." "Let me guess...it never rematerialized?" I said sarcastically. "No, and boy was she pissed!" Brie said animatedly. "Ricky Lynn thinks her grad student assistant set the thing fer twenty years instead 'a two hours." "Couldn't it be set for twenty minutes or twenty months," Jack paused a second in embarrassment, "Twenty centuries?" We all looked at Jack for a moment in disbelief. "I've already checked the close future instances then Brie watched her TV show an' made that voice discovery, but I'm due to be...um...well...otherwise engaged in another day, and..." Allie blushed red with embarrassment. "Got it." I interrupted. "So, you'd like us to continue in 2011 and work our way back?" "If y'all could...just the once, Alex?" Brie asked looking at me with her version of puppy dog eyes. I thought about how very pathetic my sister looked right now...and how very corny. "Fine." I said, "But y'all're gonna take her 'rector set away from her after this, right?" I asked, glaring at Allie. "Like that'll ever happen, sis!" She snorted. I shook my head in the negative a few times with a wry grin on my face as a response. Ya, I knew better. "So, what do we need to do to 'find' this thing, Brianna?" Uncle Rick asked annoyed by his other 'nieces' banter. "Sir, you're looking for something about the size of a Semi's disk brake rotor...maybe a little heavier." "What's a...disk...brake...rotor?" He asked in confusion. Brie narrowed one eye. "Oh. Well, it's a disk...about...um...fourteen inches across...about five or six inches high...and weighs about...fifty pounds. Oh, and it looks like polished bare steel 'cept fer the center 'hub'...that's painted 'Ford blue'." Uncle Rick still looked confused. "It looks like the flywheel from a 1915 White." I translated even though I wasn't sure myself. "Oh!" Uncle Rick finally grasped the shape then looked at me with another confused stare. "Look, just think a picture of the thing to Jack and she'll pass it to us, Brie." I suggested with some annoyance. "Oh...ya, ah forgot 'bout that." Brie giggled. I rolled my eyes a few times. "Is that all for the briefing, sis?" "Oh, here, you'll need this, Empress." Allie said quickly as she reached into her shoulder bag and pulled our tiara out. "Randi added a location finder. Its range isn't real far, but she says if y'all get within a few hundred yards it'll let ya know. I don't rightly know if it works though or not, sis." Allie told me as she handed the headpiece to me and bowed slightly. After glaring at her subtle taunt, I immediately placed it on my head and smiled. Why did I like this thing- this blatant reminder and obvious symbol of nobility- so much? "Great, now she really does look like an 'Empress'!" The old man groused and rubbed his face in frustration. "Its not just jewelry, Uncle," Allie argued. "Believe it or not this device has gotten me out of a few scrapes." My vision clouded for a second as I glanced quickly to Jack and thought about what that statement reminded me of. I noticed Allie wipe her eyes quickly, too. Closing my eyes quickly, I selected and energized my favorite piece of jewelry. Its display indicated a full charge. I also noticed two new items had been added to the main popup menu: 'Artificial Temporal Field Detection' and 'QDA interface'. "Sis, Randi recommends not leaving the ATFD enabled while transiting. She said that would be 'bad'. She also said that if you had any questions to consult the 'online help'- that she took the time to add it so y'all should take the time ta read it". I nodded. "Thanks for the info." Allie nodded and offered her hand to Brie. "Until another time, Empress." She bid her leave with a nod and a grateful smile. "Until another time, Empress." I replied with a nod. "And good luck with number four, Alex." I added with my own bright smile. Alex returned my smile and added a wink before she and Brie disappeared. "So...are we ready to start this mission?" I asked my uncle and Jack. Both took an offered hand. "Phasing in three...two..." I began. Jack nodded to me that her field was down. "Oh crap!" I exclaimed and immediately selected and turned off my tiara's newest function, ATFD. "One! I said brightly, but didn't transit to 2011 instantly; instead I felt we had to stay a moment longer. The sound of a key in the door's lock caught our attention. Admiral Demmit's clerk, Ens. Theodore Fischer, opened the door suddenly and quickly glanced around the room. "Funny, I thought I heard a woman's voice in here." He said aloud to himself. He began to sniff the air suddenly. "Perfume?" He noted as he looked around the room again in confusion. "How?" Shaking his head, he began to reclose the door. "The strangest things have been happening around here these last three months." He said to himself. "Remind me to put that boy in for a commendation. He's a good clerk...keeps his mouth shut, too." Uncle Rick said shaking his own head. I smiled to myself. 'She' would continue to serve the admiral well into the future. We were suddenly standing in front of a large aircraft hangar. 'Pacific Aviation Museum' was painted high up on its exterior wall. Part of the large hanger's door had been modified into a deeply sloped awning and now covered a glass storefront-type entrance. Off to our left, you could just see the top of a battleship's superstructure- to our right the long abandoned runway. "Shall we go in?" I asked, ignoring the four 'minivans', as Allie called them, and large box truck parked nearby. Nor did I pay attention to the four civilians milling around them. Walking in, I noticed what looked like a souvenir shop to our left and a Ticket Counter directly ahead. We entered a curved hallway off to our right and walked the thirty odd feet to the main museum area. "Sure looks like a museum to me, Alex," Jack said as she looked around the large display floor. That's when I saw the people we would try to avoid, but inadvertently interact with later on tonight. "Over by the 'B-25'." I said with a nod to a group of five, four men and a woman, attended by several other men and another, younger, woman. A few held what looked like microphones on long poles, a few held what I think were motion picture cameras. Two others held lights. We walked over closer. Uncle Rick looked apprehensive for a moment, but I assured him we were still phased out. "Are we ready?" A tall, blonde-haired man asked his collegues. One gave a nod. "OK, so what goes on here?" He asked the woman wearing the 'Pacific Aviation Museum' polo shirt. The uncomfortable looking woman took a deep breath and began to give what all thought to be an answer. "Welcome to Hangar 37. As you can see, this is our main display floor here at the Pacific Aviation Museum. This is our B-25 Mitchell Bomber. Planes just like this one participated in the Doolittle raid on the Japanese main island in 1942." "Anne? Anne. Take it easy! We won't bite. Just relax and talk to us like we're old friends. Now...what goes on at this exhibit?" The Blonde guy said with a reassuring smile. "Visitors have claimed to have seen a pilot and co-pilot looking out of the cockpit windows." The tour guide said- still nervous. "Have either of these apparitions communicated or done anything to the visitors in some way, Anne," asked a shorter, brown-haired, man standing next to the blonde guy? "Not to my knowledge, no. I've been told that they just seem to be looking out at something." "Tony, let's put a mini-DV camera on the cockpit- see if we can catch anything." "Got it, K." A taller, slim man wearing a chauffer's hat acknowledged. He quickly scribbled some notes on his clipboard. "Sounds residual to me guys." The shorter, heavy set man added. "That's probably the case, Rob. Where to next?" The blonde man, K or Keith replied to his cohort before looking to their guide. "Right over here." The woman indicated. "This is Kramer. Kramer is said to move when nobody is in the room. Sometimes his hand is holding the propeller, sometimes it's down at his side, and sometimes he's holding a piece of paper!" "Really?" The thin man next to Keith asked, somewhat surprised. "Yes," the guide nodded. "Before we close each evening we go around and make sure things are secure...and sometimes when we open the next morning Kramer's arm is in a different position." The woman explained with a slight shudder. "Brian, this one might not be so paranormal." "I have a few ideas on what this phenomenon might be, K. Okay." "Okay, where to next, Anne?" K asked. The guy with the hat, Tony, made some more notes on his clipboard. "Let's go into the theater." I felt Uncle Rick tug at my hand. "I'm told Seaman Kowolesky's brother was found right over there, shot four times straight through the chest." He said pointing to a spot near the large, sliding hangar doors. "So who are these guys, Alex?" Jack asked curiously. "I'm betting they're the 'Spirit Quest' guys Brianna talked about. So they actually make a living out of finding ghosts?" "If that's what you believe, Uncle." I started to say. "Maybe you should talk to Momma Scott about that...see what she has to say on the matter of ghosts," I nodded to Jack with a smile. "And other poltergeist." "I'm not a poltergeist, Alex. I...am a Mind Warrior." She said ceremoniously. "And I'm getting tired of just standing here listening to you girls debate the designations of purgatorial spirits! Can we please find this 'Temporal what's-it' and go home? I have paperwork to finish before the war ends." "Fine." I said, defeated, as I looked around for a safe place to rephase."Let's go over to the lavatories." As we made our way quickly through the rest of the museum past a yellow bi-plane and a bunch of tables and chairs, a janitor opened the ladies door and looked in to make sure it was empty. The men's side was already blocked open. "Great. Switching to plan 'B' then." I groused. "You didn't seriously just think about rephasing us in the ladies room, did you Alex?" Uncle Rick asked in surprise. "Why not, it looks just like the men's room...minus the urinals." Uncle actually growled at me. Had I come so far as to forget the taboo about men in the ladies head? "Let's just go outside and rephase behind a truck or something." He suggested. "Whatever." I said, though questioned where that particular response originated. "We still need to be within two hundred yards to find Ricky Lynn's toy." "Can we go over to the Arizona Memorial, Alex? I'd like to say hi to Jimmy." Jack asked with semi-pleading eyes. I had almost forgotten that one of his cousins had perished below decks that accursed morning. A darkened theater filled with people appeared around us. The majority appeared to be exiting double doors down front and just to the left of the screen. Moving us closer to a similar set of doors at the back of the tiered theater, I rephased us. "We're here." I said quietly, placing my hand against the steel door as demonstration. Exiting, we found ourselves at a dock where a large, white, Motor Launch marked '39-2' was tied up and idling. We casually made our way down a set of steel stairs. I smiled at an older gentleman at the bottom. He had unexpectedly turned back and stared at us...probably wondering where we had been hiding. Good thing I had quickly taken my tiara off before we left 1944. I giggled as we took our place at the end of the boarding line. The last person in that line- an Oriental woman- took an unsure step up onto the boarding ramp as we were saluted by a handsome, young...fit, Chief Petty. I'm sure she was wondering why until she turned around. "I appreciate this, Cap." Jack said quietly as we each returned salute before boarding. Seeing us board, the pilot turned, snapped to attention, and saluted from the raised bridge. Uncle Rick growled under his breath as we all saluted back. We suddenly found ourselves the center of attention. "As you were, ladies and gentlemen, I'm just a tourist today." Uncle Rick announced- loud enough to be heard over the throaty idling of the engines. "You had somebody on her?" The Oriental woman in front of us turned and asked loudly as she gracefully took a seat. She looked to be in her late fifties. "A cousin, ma'am." Jack answered timidly as the woman slid over to make room for us on the bench. "You don't look old enough to have cousin on Arizona." The woman said with a sad smile. "But it does seem like everyone a 'cousin' here." She smiled politely. "We recognize back to fifth cousins, ma'am." Jack answered quickly. "It's tradition to visit him when I'm in port." She nodded. "In that we are alike, Lt. Commander...Cummins." The woman said as she paused to read Jack's nameplate. "Ma'am?" Jack asked. "My father..." She paused. "He...cause...this. His bomb...he drop the bomb..." She sniffed and wiped at her forming tears as she fought to answer. "Bomb that..." She sniffed again. "Cause this." I looked over to Uncle Rick and saw the rage in his eyes. What happened that morning was not this woman's fault though. I shook my head gently at him a few times with sadness in my own eyes. The woman continued. "I come here every year or when I can afford to beg forgiveness from victims for father's...please forgive...ramblings." "Ma'am, I too have a tradition..." I began to say, "of traveling to Hiroshima. I have a friend who lost family there and I still feel personally responsible for those barbaric attacks. I too beg for forgiveness when visiting ground zero." I told her through tears of my own. "I also had a relative on Arizona." "I'm sorry child, but you shouldn't carry that burden. You weren't even born yet, why hold yourself responsible for something that happened well before your time?" She asked as she gently rubbed my arm. "I'm afraid I'll always feel that way, ma'am." I admitted. "Alexandra's great uncle was an advisor to President Truman, ma'am. He tried to discourage the bombings." Jack told her. Although it was the truth, it was nowhere near the whole truth. "Then I thank you for your uncle's efforts, Commander. It takes great courage to defy one so powerful." She sympathized. "Did he make it out of the war?" I asked calmly. "Did your father make it home?" "Mother and I were told that he was shot down over Midway, though we believed it penance for taking so many lives here." She rationalized while still gently patting my arm. "I understand that during war, we all must make peace with what we've been ordered to do- what we've already done." Just then the two man crew dropped moorings, throttled up the engines, and we found ourselves on the way out to the floating Memorial commemorating the rusting steel gravesite. The Japanese woman seemed to become more distraught the closer we got. She just stared down onto the deck and every once in a while I'd see her wipe away tears. "Ma'am," I said gently, "You should take your own advice." "Sorry, Commander, I lost another during that war. I had a relative serving mostly against his will on a warship that was sunk by an American submarine that, strangely, was rumored to be manned by women- that is, if Tokyo Rose could be trusted or even believed". My jaw dropped as I stared at this woman. She looked over at my sudden silence and reaction. "Have I said something disturbing, Commander?" She asked in concern. "You are of the family Moritsu," I gasped? The woman's eyes widened. "How did you...?" The woman stared more intently at my nameplate for a moment. "Steinert...I...I think I know that name." "I have a friend, Moritsu Takashi, who told me of a possible great uncle that was surprisingly named Takashi also. I thought Takashi to be a woman's name." "There were many traditions begun in time of war, commander. My Aunt and Uncle requested shortly after the war that we honor the name Takashi and told us that my cousin Takashi had been very courageous and honorable even though conscripted near middle age by the Imperial Navy." "I may be mistaken, ma'am. The Takashi I know looks more Navajo Indian than Japanese." I said trying to rescue the conversation. The woman's eyes grew larger. "My Aunt and Uncle also spoke of an American..." Her eyes grew even wider if that were possible! "An Alexandra Steinert! It was told that she had something to do with their decision to leave Hiroshima and open an eatery in Tokyo in the days before..." She paused and suddenly stared at me again in shock. We were nearing the memorial by now- the motor launch made a wide sweeping turn to starboard to dock and would soon be disembarking the boat. "Tell me, Cmdr. Steinert, has your friend ever told you of the angels clad in white that were rumored to have forewarned some of the people around those two Prefectures?" I felt the blood drain from my face. The observant woman's eyes narrowed. "You HAVE heard the tale!" She accused. "I thought it only a story, ma'am." I responded in a hushed voice attempting to cover my shock. "I have relatives who swore on their death beds that angels in white urged them to leave- a few even told how they mysteriously found themselves in Meguro, Minato, Setagaya, even Nakano without any knowledge of how they got there." Our boat started to offload to the memorial's dock and our conversation paused. After returning salute to the Park Ranger stationed on the memorial- a Marine Reservist- we soon found ourselves on the opposite end of the large floating memorial facing a wall listing Arizona's casualties. Jack carefully scanned the list until she suddenly broke into quiet tears- her hand reaching out, but failing to even come close to touching her cousin's name. Apparently this was a common practice, which necessitated theater stanchions and ropes to be placed a few feet out from the wall for protection. I placed my hand on her shoulder and squeezed gently. Her pleading eyes met mine, but I could only close my eyes and shake my head ever so slightly. I couldn't interfere. There was some secretive reason I could only rescue Brian and even my gift was against giving me that answer. At that moment, I felt so helpless. "Maybe we should go, Alex, Jacki?" Uncle Rick said quietly as I felt his quivering hand on my shoulder. My eyes hadn't moved from my first officer...my friend...my sister. She nodded faintly and we relinquished our spot to other visitors. We found ourselves near the middle of the Memorial that straddled the hulk, looking out and down into the clear water at the submerged galley- or what was left of it. "I think that's where he was stationed." Jack said sadly as she nodded down. It dawned on me that he had been a few compartments aft of Brian. I suddenly began remembering that morning- that single...terrifying...sound- the sound of a clock spring winding down and the sudden click that had doomed this ship and its crew! I thought about how close I had to have been to actually hear it that well. It had been in the next compartment! The horrid memory of my ill-fated rescue attempt that morning- of nine terror-stricken faces on the beach, assaulted me brutally. I...I couldn't save them, I thought- my vision severely blurring from tears. "Alex?" Uncle Rick's voice asked in concern. "Alex, what's wrong, honey?" "It is as though she were actually reliving the horror of that day, Admiral." The perceptive Japanese woman said with a troubled look from beside a horrified looking Jack. I blinked quickly before looking over to see her sorrowful, yet understanding eyes looking back. "Try as we might, Commander, history cannot be changed. It is as fixed as our destinies- forever cemented in time." "You're wrong!" I whispered vehemently as I looked out over the water covering this hallowed place- at the white buoy marking Arizona's bow. My hands squeezed at the handrail in anger- tears continued streaming from my eyes. "Why couldn't I save them?" Had I really just said that aloud? Judging from Jack and Uncle Rick's horrified expressions...probably. "I'm sorry. I've already forgotten how connected you said you feel to this place, Commander." The woman apologized with a slight bow. "I'm the one who's sorry, ma'am" I replied, quickly composing myself, and turning to face her again. "I shouldn't allow myself to get so consumed, Miss Moritsu." "Please, my name is Mitsuru, Commander, Mitsuru Akane." My mouth suddenly went dry after hearing her name! Being so consumed by this hallowed place and my first-hand memories of what actually happened here, I failed to consult my foresight until now. Quickly doing so, I reached into my regulation shoulder bag and automatically removed my flask. Unscrewing the cap, I took a sip from it. "I'm sorry, Akane. I've forgotten my manners. Would you care for a drink? It's only water." I said as I offered her my flask after wiping the top. I noticed Jack and Uncle Rick suddenly stare at me in horror. "Jacki and I just returned from a trip to Japan. While there I visited my friend's ancestral home in the hills above Hiroshima. I met a monk who, after hearing my and my uncle's story showed me to a sacred spring. He claimed that it held restorative properties and urged me to fill this flask, but to only drink from it when I again felt the burden fall upon me." I said but then smiled. "This is the first time I've taken a sip. Somehow though, it just tastes like water to me. I think he was just trying to make me feel better." I paused. "Here, try some. You look like you carry a similar burden, Mitsuru Akane." 'What are you doing, Alex?' Jack asked sharply in my mind. 'Doing what the timeline has shown I should.' I thought back. 'She's one of our sisters?' "Almost." I said aloud. Akane looked to me then at my flask for a brief moment as she thought about what I had said then took a sip and returned it to me. "Thank you, commander, it is indeed refreshing, though I think you are right about its claimed properties." "Well, at least its wet." I said taking another sip then recapping and stowing it back in my bag. I returned to gazing back out at the water. Toward another Battleship- Missouri- moored facing us. "Akane, have you been to the Aviation Museum yet?" I asked after a minute or two. "I have yet to set foot in it, Commander." "Care to join us, then? I feel I owe you something more than an explanation for my emotional outburst." Uncle Rick looked like he would pass out! "You do not have to do that, Commander." "I insist, Mitsuru Akane. It'll be my treat." "Thank you, Commander, you are very kind." Our return trip to shore was reverse of our arrival to the floating shrine. Akane's mood seemed to improve the closer we got to land. By the time we arrived back at the Visitor Center's pier her spirits were again high and a smile appeared. 'Um...how are we going to get there now that Mrs. Mitsuru is with us, Alex? You just can't transport us there like normal now, can you?' Jack asked in my mind as we exchanged quick glances. "Chief?" Uncle Rick called out as we reached the welcoming area not far from the permanently moored USS Bowfin. Jack and I turned our attention to the handsome SP standing near by. He immediately turned toward the old man's voice. A look of confusion filled his face before he noticed the rank. Apparently, word had made it back to headquarters that an Admiral and two adjutants were at the 'Valor in the Pacific' complex. "Aye, sir?" He stood to attention and saluted smartly. "Can I help you, Admiral?" "We'd like to go over to the Airfield." Admiral Demmit stated without hesitation. "I can have a car here in five, Admiral Demmit!" The thirty-something Chief smiled as he held his salute. He glanced to Jack and I a second and winked. "Wonderful, Chief...um...Fischer. Thank you." Uncle Rick hesitated as he glanced back at the sailor's nameplate. My uncle saluted then looked at me. I nodded imperceptibly with a smile. "How's your mother by the way, son? I haven't seen her in a while." Demmit asked with a raised eyebrow. "She's just as spry as ever, sir. Thanks for asking," he said with a wink before reaching for his cell phone. "You really shouldn't have done that, Admiral Demmit. I would've been quite content with just returning to my hotel instead of putting you out. I'm sure you have important matters awaiting your attention." Mitsuru Akane said after a long silence as we sat in the back seat of the Lincoln staff car sent for us. We were now crossing the bridge over to Ford Island. There was something to be said of modern convenience though I wondered when it had been built. "Nonsense, Mrs. Mitsuru, I try to leave room in my schedule every time my nieces hit port. It's the only time I get to see my family." Uncle Rick answered from the front passenger seat- his head turning to look at the three of us. "Beside, I haven't been over here in ages." He winked. Within a few minutes we were again standing in front of the entrance to the Pacific Aviation Museum. This time though, we could be seen. "Oh my, they seem to be filming something," Mitsuru Akane said as she noticed the activity around four minivans parked nearby. Several people were busy moving video equipment into the building. "I'm sorry for having you bring me this far only to be turned away, Admiral." She apologized. "Maybe we can still get in, ma'am?" I said cheerfully. "We might get in the way though, Commander." She said as she stared at the blonde haired man, Keith, coming out the entrance. "I wonder what LAPS means, anyway?" She asked. "Los Angeles Paranormal Society, ma'am." The man, Keith, said overhearing her question. "We're just setting up our command center for tonight's investigation, you can still go in to see the exhibits if you want. We're going to wait till after closing to finish." "Thank you." I said smiling at him. "Mrs. Mitsuru has visited Pearl Harbor many times, but has never been here before. We thought she would be interested since her father participated in the raid." "Really? Wow, I'm sure he told you some good stories, ma'am." "He never made it back to Japan, young man." Akane said sadly. "Oh. Oh, I'm very sorry, ma'am." "Mrs. Mitsuru's father, it seems, allegedly dropped the bomb that led to the Arizona's demise. She comes here every year to ask forgiveness on his behalf." I informed him. "Oh my gosh! That's...that's incredible! I can't begin to understand how you must feel, ma'am. Please...go on in. Tell the manager that Keith Fox said it was ok." "Thank you, Mr. Fox." Uncle Rick said as he offered his hand. "My pleasure Admiral, my pleasure." He said as he opened the door for us. "Can I help you?" A younger woman asked from behind the counter as we entered. "Mr. Fox said we could still take a tour." I replied. "Of course. We're still open for tours. Would you like the full guided tour with one of our Docents; the self-guided tour of Hangars 37 and 73; or would you just like to visit the museum in Hangar 37? We have one more guided tour scheduled to start in five minutes." The young woman explained as I looked at the rates. "We'd like the full tour for all four of us, please." I said as I reached into my regulation shoulder bag. "With your military discount that will be eighty dollars, please." She said with no concern of how much the total actually was. Had I not previously traveled further into the future, I would have choked! Instead, I produced my 'credit card' which she swiped through a slot built into the side of the register, waited, and then asked me to enter my 'pin' number using a small numeric keypad on the counter. "Thank you. Your tour will start over there," she pointed to her left, "in five minutes, Commander Steinert. Here's your receipt. When called, please step over to the area on your right and you'll all be given a wristband good for both hangers and the tour. I hope you enjoy your visit to the Pacific Aviation Museum here at Pearl Harbor." "Thank you." I said with a bright smile. "Please excuse me a moment." Mitsuru Akane begged and hurried off to our left for the restrooms. "Just where did you get a credit card, Alex?" Jack asked in curiosity as we stepped away from the front desk. "Did Randi get that for you when we visited the twenty-first century?" "It's my Empress Express card, Jack. I never leave base without it." I giggled quietly, unable to keep a straight face. Jack rolled her eyes in response while Uncle Rick tried desperately to figure out what a 'credit card' actually was. "It's like running a bar tab, but through a bank, Uncle Rick." I said feeling bad for him. "And yes, Jack, Randi set up a special off-shore account administered by RVP from Kili Island." I showed her the card with a dazzling, star-filled night sky on its face. "Cute." Jack deadpanned. "Hey, it was either this or wash eighty bucks worth of dishes!" I replied with a wry smile. "This place is privately run so we wouldn't be getting in free." Akane appeared out of the lavatory door and walked over to us. "Commander, I believe that water you offered me went straight through." "It did?" I looked surprised and horrified. "I hope it was fit to drink, ma'am. I'd feel really bad if I made you sick." "No, Commander, this old body sometimes takes me by surprise. I doubt a monk from the homeland would intentionally give you bad water." The older Japanese woman reassured me. "Admiral, Commanders, ma'am, the tour is about to begin if you would follow me please?" The young woman that waited on us said as she walked past and motioned to us. Stepping behind a walled counter she produced, reached across the counter, and applied our wristbands then again motioned us to follow. Entering the wide, curved hallway with airline memorabilia on its walls and a few self-standing display cases, the woman stopped and turned to us. "Well...um...hi, and welcome to the Pacific Aviation Museum here at Pearl Harbor. My name is Susan and I'll be your guide through Hangars 37 and 73 today. If you cannot hear what I've said, please feel free to ask me to repeat something. Of course, I don't really have to tell most of you that, I guess." Our hostess giggled uncomfortably. As if on cue, a jet could be heard somewhere outside. Uncle Rick looked a bit concerned, but quickly covered with a stern frown. "No respect for an Admiral around here!" He growled, shaking his head a few times in mock anger. We all laughed. As we waited for Susan to finish telling us about the artifacts in the display cases, I brought up my HUD and enabled my tiara's Artificial Temporal Field Detector. Hopefully the ATFD would find Ricky Lynn's missing device. I was glad I had remembered to take it off and place it in my shoulder bag. It really couldn't be called regulation- still- I preferred it to the high crowned, narrow brimmed cover the Navy issued women these days. Immediately, the ATFD window popped up in my vision and indicated nothing within the sensor's range. "So, Admiral, I noticed that you three are submariners?" Our guide asked in curiosity. Akane suddenly snapped around and stared at Jack and I! "Why yes, we're in the Silent Service, Susan." Uncle Rick admitted. "Silent Service? Wow, I haven't heard it referred to in those terms since our last group of World War II vets came through." She replied tensely, her smile somewhat guarded. "I commanded a boat during the cold war, sweetheart...when we had to be silent." Demmit growled. "The term never went away." Our guide looked at the Admiral with a little fear in her eyes. "Commander Steinert here has her own boat now. Lt. Commander Cummins is her Ex-O. I'm proud to say that they are the very first female naval officers to command their own submarine, young lady." He added. Akane gasped in surprise hearing that piece of information. "Oh my God, that is so amazing! I can't imagine the stress you two must be under, Commanders!" Susan gasped, her hands going to her mouth in excitement. "Wait until the others hear that I had two real celebrities in my final tour of the day! Wow!" As I felt my face warm, I looked over to Mitsuru Akane. She seemed to be shying away from both Jack and I, and the extra attention. "Three." I said looking back to our guide. "Excuse me, Commander Steinert?" "There are three celebrities in your tour today, Susan. Mrs. Mitsuru's father was an Imperial pilot in 1941. It's rumored that he dropped the ordinance that doomed Arizona." I continued. The younger woman, of obvious Asian descent stared at Akane a moment. "I admire your courage, Mrs. Mitsuru." Susan said as she bowed slightly to the older woman. "I have met many veterans visiting the island doing the exact same thing you are doing for your father. I take it he never returned?" Akane shook her head sadly.