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With the Time Machine Bandit, Clemson, now 'incarcerated'. Alex and the crew of Meridian 12 must now find their Egyptian passengers a new home. What other surprises are in store from the Empress of Time and Space? And is this the last time we'll see Andromeda, Regina and the crew of Atlantis? Copyright 2014: R.G. Beyer Episode 10 "Loose Ends" "Alex? Where did you come from? Is mother all right? Did your attendance help lessen her charges? Will we ever see her again?" Emily asked rapid- fire as I once again found myself in our Atlantis quarters. I just nodded, as I looked around- still stunned. Had I actually been in the presence of...? I shook my head. No, there was no way that could be what happened. How would I ever rate audience with ...'her'? Looking to the floor, I began to wonder about my supposed significance in...what did they call it... existence. Had I just represented, redirected, and then taken sole responsibility for not only my actions, but for other's without blinking an eye or conscious thought? Why would I not be severely punished for what momma and I had done- for what we truthfully admitted to? That woman...she was the first to speak from the gallery- the first to show disinterest in the inquiry as if it should have been some game. Was she expecting I would respond as I did? If that were the case, was I again being tested- manipulated- to observe my response? "Alex? Sis, it's almost three bells, and Andie asked us over for dinner. Are you feeling up to it? I can call and reschedule if you'd like to take it easy a while," Emily said as she gently took my right hand in hers. E.S. Atlantis, Standard Year 257:09:11 "Must you leave so soon, Anna Beth?" Andie asked as we stopped beside Meridian in the huge Diplomatic hangar. Our spacecraft seemed dwarfed more than ever in the huge bay. "I'm afraid so, Andie. We've worn out our welcome and it's time that we sought out a new home. Only the Lords know how long that will take," Anna Beth looked to me accusingly. "Meridian, Passenger status?" "All passengers except one have boarded. Command crew is deficit two. Crewmember families are all accounted for, captain." "Acknowledged. Are we ready?" Anna Beth replied scanning the ceiling of the hangar. "Dixie's...Atlantis A.I. hospitality link disabled. Meridian A.I. pre- flight complete and go," Meridian answered excitedly as she reported her Comm link and preflight status. Still, I detected a tinge of sadness in her voice. "Thank you, Meridian," Anna Beth confirmed as she looked back to Andie, Reggie, and Ian then impatiently around the hangar again. "We've really enjoyed having you these past few weeks. Hopefully, Alex will see fit to bring you all around for a visit every now and again," Andie said as Reggie mechanically nodded her head. "Ricky Lynn, I hope Alex brings you back when she visits. I've enjoyed talking 'shop' with you. It won't be the same around here without you," Reggie said, finally composing herself enough to speak. "I'm sure ol' Alex seen more visits in our futures, toots. Hopefully, we can get back fer the baby shower in a few months," Prof. Samuels said with a guarded smile. "Or we could come visit you...Empress willing," Reggie replied with a tempered smile of her own. "Exec, where are my Communications and Tactical Officers? Did they elect to stay behind?" Anna Beth growled impatiently to me. "The Pixies said that they had to visit and say their farewells to all the children in all the schools and daycares around Atlantis, captain. They will arrive presently," I answered. Across the hangar, the passageway access door slid open and three small figures flew in slowly. As they got closer, Yuuka began to grow up and once her feet touched the ground, joined us. Sunni was next to exit Pixie mode and took her place next to Yuuka. She remained as Sunni though. The third, a pixie with yellow-smudged, silvery wings, began to grow, but remained much smaller than her sister Pixies. She hurried over and stood next to Sunni, quickly taking her hand. It was a good thing Ricky Lynn still had a spare Reilly. The first time Tath'ba had entered Pixie mode- she had been startled by a first year student twice her size at one of the elementary schools in Gamma Ring- her clothes ended up in a small pile on the floor. Tath'ba was hovering a cubit or so above; naked as the day she was born- in her adult form no less. Anna Beth stared at our newest sister sternly. The young girl's response was to tighten her grip on Sunni's hand and hide slightly behind her. Sunni pulled gently on the girl's hand so that she came out from behind. "What do you say to the captain, Tabatha?" she asked the girl using the English version of her name. It would become her legal name very soon. "Um...um...sor...sorry, captain, ma'am. I...IIIIII...I wanted to say goodbye to all the children. Do we really have to leave here?" "I'm afraid we do, little one. Andie and her people are going to be landing Atlantis in the next few weeks and we'll just be in the way. Besides, don't you want to see the beautiful new world Alexandra has picked out for us?" Anna Beth asked the young, newly gifted, girl. Tabatha had realized her gift quickly as she lay in the infirmary recuperating from the severe injuries she received during the Sun Temple procession. Since her release from Atlantis' infirmary five days ago, she had stuck to Sunni like glue. "I would like that very much, captain, but I would also like to see Sunni's world too," she replied shyly. "Let's see where the Empress takes us first, munchkin. Alex has her priorities you know," Sunni told her. "Col. Smithson, would you care to board Meridian. Meridian, enable another station next to tactical for Miss Tabatha," Anna Beth said as she smiled slightly. "Bridge modification complete. Bridge seating complement has reached maximum, captain," Our A.I. acknowledged. "Thank you Meridian. Col. Smithson, once your charge is seated and secured; please begin your tactical pre-flight. Young lady, the bridge will be a very busy place for awhile so you must be on your best behavior." "Aye, ma'am," Sunni and young Tabatha said after snapping to attention. She and Tabatha turned and marched toward the outer hatch at Anna Beth's nod. "I've never seen a six year old act so mature," Alusia commented quietly. And I have never seen a sixteen year old act like such a brat, niece," Anna Beth countered. "We've had a long series of discussions about her behavior back in Memphis, captain. Alexis has seen the light, so to speak," Alusia assured as she glanced to Allie, Andie, Emily, and I. She had tightly held the girl's reigns since our arrival on Atlantis and still did so now. "Just like her mother," I said in whisper to Allie and Jack. "Yes, Empress, just like me. Though I think she learned some of that from her father also," Alusia said, having heard my comment. "I told you I surrender, mother! I couldn't go back to Memphis now anyway- I'd never live long enough," Young Alexis cried in angst. "I never said you couldn't go back, hun. I just didn't think you would want to marry your own cousin. We have laws against that sort of thing where I come from," I admitted to the teen. "Why would I marry Djedefre? Eewww!" The young woman exclaimed as she grimaced. "Because Djedefre is Pharaoh now, and according to his newly reformed government, he is now a living God and can do pretty much what he wants- when he wants," I looked at the teen sternly. "Including claiming anyone he wants...related or otherwise...as many times as he desires...with as many partners as he wants!" Anna Beth looked at me as though she thought I was joking. Alexis' face drained of all color. "He would do that?" she asked in disbelief. "We got a sayin' back home, hun: 'It's good to be the king'." Andie, Reggie, and Ian smiled and shook their heads. "Remaining command crew to the bridge. Get below, Alexis," Anna Beth commanded awkwardly. The sixteen-year-old angrily stood to attention, quite dramatically performed an 'about face' then marched exaggeratedly the few steps to Meridian's outer hatch. "Wow! Now that wasn't a statement, was it?" I said to no one in particular. A round of hugs and handshakes ensued before we all turned and entered Meridian. Andie, Reggie, and Ian made their way over to the docking control room to observe our departure. Welcome back to the bridge, counselor," Anna Beth said as Alusia walked off the elevator. "Please have a seat." Alusia looked about as frightened as the last time she was on the bridge- when we left Poland. This time all consoles around the bridge were manned except the one next to Emily at Environmental. "What station have you assigned me, captain?" Alusia asked in confusion. "Alexandra has assigned you to Ship-wide communications and information, dear. Your job is to monitor and route all intra-ship communications. Assist and answer questions about the intercom system, and help our passengers cope with interstellar travel, though I am at a loss for how long our travels might actually last," Anna Beth explained as she looked over to me with a raised eyebrow. "It sounds like I'm a glorified telephone operator-slash-shrink," Alusia complained. "Something like that, hun," I laughed. "It's that or you go back to your quarters for the duration." "No, this is fine, Cmdr. Steinert," she conceded. "Let's get going, Exec," Anna Beth ordered as she grinned "Aye, captain! Bridge. Pre-flights," I barked. "Engineering." "Go, Ex-O. Beta-wave APU online. Inertial generators to dynamic. Fuel cells one hundred percent and tending," Ricky Lynn answered. "Environment." "Cabin pressure equalized. Breathable gas mixture optimal. CO2 scrubbers online and operating at one hundred. Medical, stocked and ready, commander," Emily answered. "Helm." "Attitude gyros online and standing by. Thrusters in standby and primed. Awaiting start authorization from Atlantis Control, Commander," Peyton responded with a smile. "Navigation," I asked. "Nav sensors cal'd and sync'd to time augmented local star maps, Ex-O," Natalia replied with an excited smile. Again, Seph and her mother bumped fists. Our captain said nothing this time, but shook her head and smiled happily. "Tactical," I continued. "Tactical sensors online and in standby. Tactical display parameters entered. Collision avoidance protocols disabled and locked pending docking control release, ma'am," Sunni responded as Tabatha stared at her completely enamored. "Weapons." "Partical and optical weapons disabled and safed until Meridian exceeds Atlantis Control's safety border. All weapons batteries charged, but safed, Cmdr. Steinert," Jack answered. "Ship's Security." "External sensors online and operational at minimum power levels. Navigational strobes in standby." "Ex-O. Docking Control confirms hangar is devoid of all personnel and awaits our request for decom," Yuuka cut in. "Understood, Comms. Sciences." "All scientific analysis equipment online, but in standby until outer Atlantian border exceeded," Allie confirmed. "Communications." "Normal transceivers online. Subspace transceiver shunted to virtual load and in standby until outer boundary exceeded. Meridian transponder online in Extremely Low Power mode. Emergency Comm transceiver in standby. Atlantis Control confirms receipt of Meridian transponder ID," Yuuka reported "Internal communications." Alusia didn't answer. I looked over to see her puzzling over the console. Emily looked over from her station and pointed to a specific spot on the sleek, sloped console face. "Thank you, doctor," she said quietly. "Internal communications," I repeated and still got no response. "Alusia! Internal Comms!" "I'm sorry, the number you have dialed is currently not in service. Please call directory assistance and state your feelings on this matter." "You are directory assistance, hun. Now, are you done with your pre- flight?" I growled to the bridge smartass. I noticed Anna Beth fight a giggle. Alusia reached to her console and touched it once. "Internal Communications online, mein Sklaventreiber." I glared at her. I didn't need my translator for that one. "Thank you, Internal comms. Captain, all stations confirm pre-flight completion. We are go for launch," I officially reported to Anna Beth. "Confirmed, Ex-O. Alert Atlantis Control of our status." "Aye. Communications, contact Atlantis control. Confirm pre-flight completion and standing by for remote docking and Decom," I said, authorizing Yuuka's station. "Atlantis Control, Meridian 12. All pre-flights go. Meridian 12 awaiting remote docking initialization and Decom; confirm," Yuuka announced. "Acknowledged, Meridian. Docking Control has been given authority," Andie's third in command responded over the loudspeaker. "Confirmed, Atlantis Control. Commander, Atlantis Control is ready," Yuuka relayed to me. I looked to Anna Beth. She nodded her approval. "Very well. Alert Docking Control we are ready for remote docking procedure," I relayed back to Yuuka. "Dock Control, Meridian 12. Atlantis Control confirmed for handoff. We're ready when you are." "Acknowledged, Meridian. Commensing remote docking protocol," Another voice answered. "Captain. Remote docking program has come online. Meridian A.I. shows handshaking confirmation," Ricky Lynn reported. "Alert Docking control, Communications," Anna Beth ordered. "Aye. Docking control, Meridian. We confirm remote docking handshake. We're in your capable hands." "Acknowledged, Meridian. Starting hangar decom," The voice informed us. "Exterior atmosphere deleting, captain. Decompression has started," Allie reported. "Meridian, Docking Control." "Go, Docking," I answered. "Meridian, at this time enable your navigational illumination, please." "Acknowledged," I answered as I nodded to Cami, who nodded to Sunni. She in turn nodded to her little helper seated between them and pointed to her console. The six year old grinned brightly as she touched the indicated spot. "Nav strobes enabled, ma'am," Sunni reported. She smiled at the young girl. "You did good, Tink." Cami smiled brightly to their helper. "External atmosphere deletion complete," Allie announced after several minutes. "Internal atmosphere and pressurization nominal, Ex-O," Emily announced. "Docking control, Meridian 12. Hull integrity one hundred percent. We're good to go," I announced. "Looks good, Meridian. H.D.A. initialization," Docking control reported. "What's an H.D.A, Sunni?" Young Tabatha asked quietly. "Hangar door activation, Tink." "Oh. Does that mean it's going to open?" "That's right, munchkin, now let's put the curiosity on hold before the captain changes her mind about you hangin' with me on the bridge, 'kay'?" The young girl nodded animatedly. "Meridian12, cutting hangar Grav generator in three, two, one," Docking announced. "Exec, thruster quads just came online in station-keeping," Seph announced as we felt Meridian jostle slightly. "Inertial generators active, Alex," Ricky Lynn reported. "Y-axis quads firing," Seph reported. The hangar ceiling began moving as Docking Control piloted us out of the hangar Meridian had occupied for two weeks. Soon we were outside of Atlantis' Command Core hull. "Attitude quads firing," Seph reported as our view of Atlantis dropped down and out of view on our display. "X-axis quads firing. Forward momentum, captain." "Meridian, Docking Control. At this time we'd like you to start up your main thrusters. Acknowledge clean starts or misfires." "Acknowledged, Docking. You heard the man, Seph. Fire 'em up, hun," I told our helmsman. "Main thrusters enabled. Starting main thrusters, Alex." The whine of Meridian's main engines starting filled the bridge. Natalia and Persephone 'high-fived'. "Main thruster start confirmed, Alex." "Give her a little love tap, Helm," I ordered. "Aye, ma'am," Seph responded as she quickly slid all thruster controls up and back down again. Anna Beth gave me a curious glance. 'Goosing' the thrusters wasn't part of typical Terran launch protocol. "Retro quads compensated, exec. We're good to go." "Confirmed, Subcommander," I acknowledged. "Docking Control, Meridian 12. Main engine start and thrust test confirmed. Meridian 12 requesting a departure vector." "Keep your pants on, Meridian 12. Follow the checksheet," Andie's voice ordered over the speaker. "Rodger that, Docking. Meridian 12 tightening her belt," I giggled in response. "X-axis quads firing. Forward velocity has increased, captain," Seph announced. Over the next five minutes we ran through Atlantis' own prelaunch checks. Apparently, Andie wanted to make sure everything was good for our trip. "Meridian 12, Docking Control. That's all we have for you. The Commodore used up almost four cubits of stationery. Hope you guys aren't too bored. Standby for a full media comm from Atlantis Command." "Rodger that, Docking, standing by," I acknowledged. "Alusia put it ship-wide," I added. "Ready for ship-wide, Alex," Alusia responded personably. Everyone on the bridge stared at her for several seconds in complete astonishment. "Captain, we have an incoming media transmission from Atlantis Control," Yuuka announced. "All displays, Internal Comm," Anna Beth ordered. Andie and Reggie appeared on our main screen. "Captain, you have our sincerest wishes for a safe and successful voyage. Reggie and I hope you find a suitable home, good health, and prosperity," Andie said. She looked like she had been crying recently. "Alex, you better take good care of those people! I swear, if I have to come after either of you..." she said before choking up. "Pleasant journeys, Empress," Reggie cut in. "Come back soon." "Goodbye...Pleasant journeys!" Everyone on Atlantis' bridge chorused. "Captain, Meridian has just crossed Atlantis' outer safety boundary," Allie said as she wiped her cheeks. "Remote docking protocol has disengaged and self-deleted, captain," Ricky Lynn announced. "Docking control signals all clear and has transferred all communications to Atlantis Control," Yuuka reported. "Alex, you and Allie take them folks where they belong, you here?" Andie choked out with a forced smile. "That's been my intention from the very start, sis. We'll see you in a few weeks," I told her. Ian's face came on screen. "Meridian 12, Atlantis Control. You are go for extra-planetary departure. Everyone here on Atlantis wishes you a safe journey. Atlantis Control, out." The main screen went blank then displayed Atlantis in all her awe- inspiring majesty. "Thank you, Atlantis Control. Meridian 12, out," I said sadly. "Exec. I need a course and heading," Anna Beth requested. "Navigation, make for safe passage through Sol's asteroid belt and the outer planets. Deflectors forward," I ordered. "Course set and enabled, exec," Natalia responded. "Hit it, Seph!" Anna Beth ordered in a playful tone. "Aye, ma'am." Meridian's engines roared to life as the bridge filled with their trademark whine. "Thrusters at full power, ma'am," Seph repeated as we felt Meridian start to break Earth's gravity. "Weapons. I want those safeties off immediately!" Anna Beth commanded. "All weapons online and live, captain," Jack responded. "Tactical," Anna Beth continued. Sunni whispered something to Tabatha. "We're in the clear, captain. Sensors report nothing unknown in all three-sixty around us," The young girl reported calmly. There was a tiny bit of excitement in her young voice though. "Excellent job, Ensign," Anna Beth congratulated. "Who is 'Ensign', captain?" the girl asked, confused by the word. Anna Beth got up and walked the short distance to Sunni's station. "You are, 'munchkin'," Anna Beth said with a smile as she placed her hand on top of the girl's head. "You're doing such a good job I gave you a field promotion. Welcome to Meridian's Command Crew, Ens. Tabatha." The new officer jumped from her seat and hugged Anna Beth around her hips. "Oh, thank you, your majesty!" Tabatha cried in happiness, but suddenly released our captain and stood to attention. "I...I mean...thank you very much, captain. I'll try to do my best for you and Meridian, ma'am." Applause and laughter filled the bridge. "We're clear of the Asteroid Belt, Captain," Natalia announced about thirty minutes later. ETA to Khieper Belt, three hours. "Now what, Alex?" Anna Beth asked. "Now I take Meridian to warp," I answered without looking at her. "What do you mean 'warp'?" "I just do my thing, captain. With your approval?" I asked. "Alusia, open a ship-wide announcement from my station." "And just how do I do that, captain?" Our Internal Comm officer asked innocently. 'Ensign' Tabatha slid off of her station's seat and walked across the bridge to Alusia's station. "Touch this button then touch this button, ma'am," The little girl said as she pointed to two places on the console. "Oh, well thank you, child," Alusia said sweetly, but blushed all the same. She touched the appropriate controls. "Ship-wide address open, captain." "All hands, prepare for Temporal Jump," Anna Beth announced. "End announcement." Without waiting, Tabatha pointed to another location on Alusia's console. "Thank you, but I knew where that one was, Ensign," Alusia groaned. Tabatha smiled, turned, walked back across our bridge, and climbed back onto her station's seat. Anna Beth began laughing hysterically! I took the opportunity to jump us to our next destination. As with previous jumps that involved space travel, everything seemed to collapse into me and I watched as the stars moved and changed for a few seconds before everything around me reappeared. "By the Lords! What was that?" Anna Beth choked out. Only Tabatha, Natalia, and Peyton mirrored our captain's frightened expression. Sunni was laughing hysterically while pumping her arm up and down as if having some kind of crazy seizure. "Temporal Jump complete, captain," I announced mechanically. "All stop!" Anna Beth shouted in surprise. "Navigation, where are we?" "Why ask me?" Natalia groaned. "Alex has a better idea than I do." "Alex?" Peyton asked. "Did we just do what I think we did?" "What is it you think we did, Subcommander?" I asked back as I saw Jack, Sunni, Cami, Emily, Yuuka, Ricky Lynn, and even Alusia look toward her. "I thought I saw stars! For the briefest of seconds I thought we were moving across the galaxy." "Let's find out, shall we?" I said with a mischievous grin. "Subcommander, have you triangulated our position yet?" I asked gleefully. "It would help if the Exec would give me some idea as to where we should be! A star year would help immensely!" Natalia growled menacingly. "We're a long, long way from Earth," I hinted. "And pray tell, how far from Earth, Miss Steinert?" Anna Beth coaxed. "Around one hundred-thirty light-years...I mean units, captain," I answered. "And would you happen to know the direction and how many years have passed us by, Alex?" "I do, captain, but I'll defer that detail to a future..." "Captain! We're receiving a transmission," Yuuka shouted as she put it on speaker. "Repeat. Unknown spacecraft, you are entering restricted space. Please identify yourself." "Yuuka, is our transponder active?" "Yes, captain, high power mode," Yuuka answered quickly after tapping a spot on her panel to check. "Alex, what did you just get us into?" Anna Beth hissed. "Captain, I would suggest introducing ourselves," Allie advised. "Patch me through, Comm." "Go ahead, captain." "This is the Terran Interstellar Probe, Meridian 12. We have just arrived in this system and are peaceful...repeat, we are peaceful," Anna Beth announced. "Unknow spacecraft we do not recognize that identification. Please hold position until we can positively identify you." "Captain, we're being targeted! They have a lock on us!" Sunni shouted excitedly. "Alex?" Anna Beth hissed. "Comm, send file 'Comdrafs' through our transponder," I requested to Yuuka. "Aye, commander." "Unknown spacecraft; please provide access pass code for 'Comdrafs' encryption and hold until decrypted and permitted," The voice advised a few minutes later. Anna Beth glared at me as if I had two heads. "Yuuka, send this through the transponder: [email protected]," I ordered. Emily, Jack, and Cami shook their heads and tried to keep from giggling. "Unknown spacecraft please re-identify," The voice asked after a long pause. I nodded to Anna Beth. "This is the Terran Interstellar Probe, Meridian 12," she restated. "We have just arrived in this system." Again there was a long pause. "Meridian 12, you will proceed to the transmitted coordinates and hold pending further communication." "Captain, I'm receiving those coordinates now, ma'am," Yuuka confirmed. "Transfer to Navigation, Comm." "Aye, ma'am." "Coordinates received and entered into navigation console, captain," Natalia reported. "Computing time to destination." "I hope you know what you are doing, Alexandra. Weapons, status!" "All particle and optical weapons charged and ready, captain," Jack responded. "Engineering, shield status." "Shields in standard forward deflect mode and active," Ricky Lynn answered. "Captain, at half power we should reach the transmitted coordinates in under an hour," Natalia advised. "Nav, engage course. Helm, three-quarters power to the thrusters. Alexandra, both of you in my conference room...now! Nat, you have the bridge," Anna Beth growled as she stood from her seat and walked back to her personal conference room. Allie and I followed. "Care to tell me what you're doing, Alexandra?" Anna Beth demanded as soon as the door closed. "Do you know exactly where we are and may I remind you that we have two hundred and eighty-one souls onboard?!" "We merely brought you to your new home, captain," Allie started. "We found you a world similar to your old home." "Apparently there's someone living there already, Alex! I don't need to remind you of the issues that could arise in the form of confrontations and border disputes!" "There is more than enough room to share the planet with the current residents, captain. You'll find them very obliging and helpful. I'm sure you'll find them very friendly. Almost like old friends," I continued to tell her. "Let's hope so, Alexandra! By the Lords, what has gotten into both of you lately?" "Captain, our mission..." Allie began. "It's taken so much of our time..." "Almost six years, in fact, since we have been to our homes," I continued, but stopped to let Allie continue. "We feel you shouldn't have that long to wait. At least you can take pleasure in knowing that everyone here will survive. We still don't know if our homes exist or if Clemson succeeded in totally removing us from history," Allie concluded. A paging tone came over the loudspeaker. "Yes?" Anna Beth barked. "Please standby for an announcement from our 'Navigatrix', Subcommander Natalia," Alusia snarked. Anna Beth showed her annoyance by rolling her eyes. "Thank you, Alusia." "Captain, you should get out here," Natalia's voice urged. "Trouble, Nat?" "No, captain, we're here! Sister! You have got to see this!" Anna Beth glared at me before turning and hurrying out of the conference room. Allie and I took a page out of Natalia and Seph's book and bumped fists before we also exited to the bridge. On the monitor was a blue and green planet with white clouds interspersed randomly around it. Anna Beth gasped as she stopped short of her captain's chair. "By the Lords...it's beautiful!" she exclaimed. "Captain, receiving another transmission," Yuuka announced. "Terran Interstellar Probe, Meridian 12, identify the purpose of your arrival and duration of stay," The voice requested. "Meridian 12 seeks permanent residence for two hundred and seventy-three souls," Anna Beth responded as she looked to Allie and I. "Captain, we're receiving a file. It looks like some multi-paged questionnaires of some kind," Yuuka reported. "Let's see these...questionaires, Lieutenant," Anna Beth ordered. Four forms appeared on our large screen tiled two by two. The entire command crew began reading. "Application for Proprietary Travel through Regulated Terra Nuevo Space?" Natalia read one aloud in confusion. "General Landing Permit for Antiquated Space Vehicles?" Persephone Peyton read another with equal confusion. "Application for Permanent Citizenship of Terra Nuevo?" Sunni giggled, reading yet another of the forms. "Application for Colonization, Occupancy, and Development of Southwestern Continent of Terra Nuevo?" Anna Beth gasped as she read the last form. "We have an incoming full-media communication from Terra Nuevo Planetary Command, captain. They would like to talk to Cmdr. Steinert." Anna Beth cautiously nodded to me. "On screen, Yuuka. And send those forms to Khufu in the captain's quarters," I smiled as I said the last part. "Alexandra. Welcome home, M'lady!" Tibius' happy face appeared on our main display. Anna Beth gasped recognizing my Terran mate's face. "Hello, Tibius. It's been awhile...for me," I giggled. "I see you picked up something we lost a long time ago. I trust she is capable of landing under her own power?" he asked with a smile. "Showroom condition, Tibius." "And her complement?" "Two hundred-seventy-three. As many as we could save...counting progeny and, as an added bonus, her original Captain and Exec, sire," I replied with a proud smile. "My I speak with your captain, Alex?" Tibius requested. I motioned a stunned Anna Beth closer to me. "Captain, as Grand High Counsel of this planet, I formally welcome you and your crew to Terra Nuevo. I trust this planet brings back fond memories of your own home planet?" "IIIIII...I believe it to be even more beautiful than our long lost Terra, Grand High Counsel," Our captain answered as she sniffed back her tears. "Well, we hope to protect this planet better than the last one, captain. We left a dying Terra ten years ago and thank the Lords every day that Alexandra and her sisters found us and helped save us from our own ignorance. Have you completed the required forms yet, captain?" "My mate is analyzing them for legal content now, Grand High Counsel. It could be days before he confirms acceptance or submits acceptable annotations and another week at least before actual ratification of said documents." "Hmmmm. I trust you have enough provisions then?" "We do, Grand High Counsel. We are provisioned for twelve Earth months." "That long, huh? Hmmmm. Well, we can't have a ship full of homesick travelers orbiting such an enticing planet with fully charged weapons at their disposal. I'm going to use my 'considerable' authority to speed up the processes. What do you say to that, captain?" Tibius asked. Just where did he learn to tease like that? 'I wonder, Alex. I really wonder?' Jack thought in my mind. Cami began giggling, but quickly stopped when Anna Beth glared at her. "It seems that would be very acceptable, Grand High Counsel. Some of my crew has already started to show signs of Deep Space fatigue." "Well, in that case..." Tibius began to say before Yuuka cut in. "Captain, we are receiving landing instruction, coordinates, and temporary permissions!" "Welcome home, Meridian 12! We've missed you. I hope you don't mind, but we've gone ahead and developed a site on your continent's northern coast to serve as a spaceport and temporary capital city. Permission to land...granted, captain," Tibius said with a proud smile before the transmission stopped. "You sneaky Jackal! You had this planned all along!" Anna Beth accused as she wrapped her arms around me. Allie got up and walked over. Our captain repeated her embrace on my sister. "Comm, pass that information over to Navigation." "With pleasure, ma'am." "Nat? Sephie? Take us..." Anna Beth paused to wipe both eyes. "Take us home," Anna Beth commanded regally. "Beginning Meridian Re-entry translation. De-orbiting retro thrusters in ten, nine, eight..." Peyton exclaimed after 'high-fiving' her mother. Terra Nuevo, 1123hrs, Prefinal, Neptinian 12th, 424 of the New Era "Wow, this place is Rad!" Sunni exclaimed as we exited Meridian's outer hatch. She took in the newly constructed spaceport buildings and launch pad facility, as would a tourist. "Tibius started designing this before we moved the Consulate building to New Citadel," I informed her. Looking back at Meridian, it seemed a waste to have her sitting on such a massive pad structure. Designed for more conventional, interplanetary spacecraft, the site measured well over four football fields in length and width. Near the outer boundary, a small box slowly rose up from the expansive, level, carbon fiber composite, deck. A group of figures emerged and began walking our way, yet they were still too far away to identify. "Looks like we got us a welcomin' party, Alex," Ricky Lynn observed. "It's more than just a welcoming party, professor," I hinted. What I observed as five people slowly focused into a dozen. I could clearly make out Tibius, my Alexis, Nathan, Timus, Heidi, Marcus, and my Granddaughter, Alexandra. Several others- people I had met at official Terran functions over the years, made up the rest of the group. "Captain! Media drones overhead," Peyton announced. "Command crew, Presentation! Line-up!" Anna Beth shouted. We quickly stood side by side in a single row, guided right, and went to attention in one flowing, choreographed move, even though never practicing together before. I guess precision drills were precision drills no matter what planet you're on. The welcoming party stayed back a few paces when Tibius waved for them to stop. He approached alone, and bowed respectfully. "On behalf of all Terra Nuevo, I welcome the crew and complement of Meridian 12, Captain Anna Beth." "My, things sure have become lax since our departure, Grand High Counsel Tibius," Anna Beth smiled pleasantly. "It has been brought to my attention- numerous times in fact- that we Terrans are too stiff and formal, Captain," Tibius nodded to me with a wink. Anna Beth wasted no more time, taking a step forward and bowing slightly. "Grand High Counsel, I wish to report the discovery of a new star system with sentient life similar to our own. It has been named 'Earth' and is located one hundred thirty-two units from here. We have succeeded in securing friendly relations with the inhabitants- some of which have voluntarily joined my crew." "Congratulations, Capt. Anna Beth. As legacy representative of Terra, I deem Meridian 12's primary mission a superb and complete success," Tibius announced officially and stepped forward to shake our captain's arm. He moved a little closer. "I'm sorry to inform you though that we have already formalized relations with the people of Earth- their diplomatic emissary is standing next to you," Tibius whispered with a devious grin. "Yes, I know, sir, but we arrived first- well before the Empress appeared on our shores," Anna Beth rolled her eyes as she loudly whispered back. "What year did we just come from, captain?" I asked quietly, leaning to close the distance to her ear while displaying my own devious smile. "Sixty-five thousand years before we arrived in Egypt...yes, I know, Alexandra, but...Atlantis hadn't landed yet," Anna Beth grumbled in argument. "Well Alex, it seems you have really extended your reach. What other surprises are in store for us at Meridian's debriefing?" Tibius smiled. I just smiled deviously at my Terran mate. His face immediately paled. Quickly composing himself though, Tibius set his attention back on Anna Beth. "Captain, we can stand here all day or we can start offloading your passengers. I would request that you dismiss your command crew. I have several impatient individuals in my group that would like the opportunity to say hello to several of your officers." "Meridian, begin passenger debarkation procedures starting with level two. Command Crew! Dismissed!" Anna Beth shouted. Immediately, my Alexis ran around her father and wrapped her arms around me. "It is wonderful to see you again, mother! I trust your mission concluded satisfactorily?" "Y'all can cry if ya want, hun. No one'll think any less a ya," I told her through tears of joy. "Oh shut up, mother," My daughter sniffled quietly as her arms tightened around me considerably. I loved it when my daughters hugged me tight and nuzzled into my shoulder. Alexis slowly yielded and moved on to greet her Aunt 'Allie'. Tibius began to approach me again only to be cut off this time by our Granddaughter. My mate frowned, being sidestepped once again. "Grandmother. Welcome back. Ah trust them migraines'll stop now?" Alexandra asked as a few tears ran down her cheeks. "Clemson has been stopped, yes," I answered as my Granddaughter wrapped her arms around me and began crying recklessly. The intense tingle felt...it felt wonderful! I noticed that Heidi had walked over to Alusia. The two were chatting away in German. "Welcome back, sister. I trust the Empress found your assistance beneficial?" heidi asked. "That depends on which Empress you talk to, Counselor. I have been curtailed by my own responsibilities," Alusia replied as she quickly glanced over to me. "Responsibilities?" heidi asked, intrigued. Alusia turned and waved for her family to approach. They had just exited Meridian's outer hatch and appeared for all intents, tourists. "My family. They are my foremost responsibility, Counselor. My husband, Khefra; daughters Alexis, Ana, and my son, Lusius," she said introducing them in order. "You've been here too, mother?" Young Lusius asked in excitement. "Not this planet, but our previous home, young sir. Your mother arrived on Terra with Alexandra Reilly about ten years ago. To help Alexandra Steinert and her Granddaughter Alexandra," heidi explained with a pleasant smile. "What is it with the name, 'Alexandra'?" Alusia's oldest asked in mock annoyance. "Grand High Counsel, may I see your daughter over here a moment? I have someone that wants to meet her," heidi inquired, turning to my mate, who was just ready to greet me...finally. My daughter excused herself from Emily and stepped over. "May I present Alexis of Alusia and Khefra, Counselor." "Hi, Alexis. Your mother talked highly of you on her last visit," My Alexis smiled. "I am Alexis, daughter of Grand High Counsel, Tibius and Alexandra Steinert-Fleming of Earth, by the way," she continued, offering her hand. Young Alexis' mouth dropped open. "No way! I'm named after the Empress' daughter?" "Seems like it, hun. Great name though, right?" My daughter giggled, smiling brightly. "Finally, we meet, Alexandra," Tibius said as he finally wrapped his arms around me. "I have missed you very much these last ten years. Before I could respond, my mate planted his lips on mine with all the passion and love I yearned for! God, did it feel fantastic! Whistles and clapping echoed in my ears. I blushed as I looked around to see everyone smiling at us. "Emily. Nice to see you again, doctor. Cynthia sends her regards and hopes you'll have time to visit her during your stay," Tibius greeted as he wrapped his arms around her. He moved on to Allie. "Alex, nice to see you here too. I'm afraid your mate could not make this memorable occasion. He is attending a trade conference on the Medici Homeworld at the present time, but should be back next week." "That shouldn't be a problem, sire. I've accumulated a whole lot of shore leave from this mission. Y'all think he misses me?" Allie asked. "As Terra missed the seasonal rains, Empress!" Tibius replied sentimentally. His attention turned to Jack. "Nice to see you, Jacki. I hope Alex hasn't been working you too hard," Tibius said as they joined right arms in greeting. "No, as a matter of fact, they have been the ones working to exhaustion." "Oh, they have, have they?" Tibius looked back over to me with a furrowed brow. "And how long has she been unconscious for this time, my dear?" "Only three and a half days, sir. Not that long at all, considering," Jack answered. Tibius smiled as he looked back sternly to me then took a blind step to his right to welcome Cami. "Where did she go?" he asked in confusion. Jack nonchalantly pointed up with her left hand. Tibius followed her gesture. Cami and Timus were hovering several yards above us, wrapped in a loving- and oblivious- embrace. My mate just shook his head and moved on to Ricky Lynn. "Professor Samuels, good to see you again. How are things at the University?" "Ehh, not bad...considerin'," Ricky Lynn replied indifferently. "That is the second time today I've heard the word 'considering'. Could you please explain?" "Well, things there was goin' good 'til my boyfriend filched my time machine. We finally got it back, but I'm still not over what was done to me and why." "Time machine? I thought Alex was the only one capable of Temporal Relocation? Did it work well?" "Too well, sir! We had one helluva time catchin' that mook! Finally got the bastard though." "That's good to hear, professor. Now who do we have here?" Tibius turned his attention to the young girl trying to become part of Sunni's uniform. "Grand High Counsel Tibius, Colonel James...err Sunni Smithson, USAF, sir," Sunni said jumping back to attention and saluting. "At ease Colonel. I was actually talking to your shy little friend here. Hello, my name is Tibius, what is your name, my dear?" Tibius asked sweetly. Tabatha jumped out from behind Sunni, snapped to attention and saluted. "Ensign Tabatha, Mr. Grand High Counsel Tibius." Tibius lowered himself so he was looking eye to eye with the young Ensign. "Well, Ens. Tabatha, I must commend you and your fellow crew members on a mission well done. Welcome to Terra Nuevo," Tibius said offering his hand. "Thank you, sir," Tabatha said as she cautiously shook the hand then took a step back and took Sunni's hand. "Colonel Smithson, I take it this is your first time traveling with Alexandra?" Tibius asked. "No sir. I've joined her team twice before, but never this 'far' off- world," Sunni answered. "Hmmm," Tibius started as he looked carefully at our tactical officer. "I seem to remember meeting someone that looked a lot like you when I visited Kili many years ago." "My mother is Tammy Richards, sir. Maybe you are remembering her from your visit?" "Yes...that's it. You look a lot like her, save the hair, colonel. Welcome to Terra Nuevo." "Thank you, Grand High Counsel." "Tibius will suffice, Sunni. I'm trying not to be so formal," Tibius said, looking toward me again. "Yuuka! How is my favorite Pixie? Keeping out of trouble?" My mate asked as he looked over to our daughter, Alexis. "I have been trying my best, sir," she replied after swallowing hard. "I have been protecting the Empress as you asked those many years ago." "Keep up the good work, little flower," Tibius told her proudly, shaking her arm. "Thank you, Sir Tibius." "Commander Anna Beth," Tibius turned back to her. "In three days, there will be a Mission Debriefing. By that time you and your passengers should have had a chance to claim your new lodgings. Hospitality personnel are on-hand down in the port's main lounge to help select residence options. We have constructed more than enough housing, both urban and suburban, to accommodate everyone. Also don't forget to register with our planetary transport system." "You got it working?" Anna Beth asked in surprise. "Over six hundred years ago," Tibius smiled politely. Terra Nuevo, 1600hrs, Prefinal, Neptinian 12th, 424 of the New Era "No offense, hun, but I prefer my way of travel over having my body broken down into subatomic particles and transmitted around the planet," I said to Tibius as Allie, Emily, Jack, Ricky Lynn, Yuuka, Sunni, Tabatha, and I rephased in the Empress' suite in New Citadel. Tabatha had staunchly refused to leave Sunni's side. "Wow! This place is amazing!" the young girl swooned as she looked around. "Go show her the view from one of the guest suites, Sunni. Back that hall, any door on the right." Sunni Smithson nodded silently and gently guided her young charge out of the large living room. "Looks like Jimmy's got himself a daughter," I said casually after both girls disappeared down the hallway. "Lil' tike's got it bad for her, skipper," Ricky Lynn agreed. "I thought Sunni was going to change back once the mission was over, Alex?" Yuuka asked, confused by her fellow Pixie's apparent change of heart. "I mean, don't get me wrong, James is a good looking man, but...but I like Sunni better. She's easier to talk to, and...she doesn't snore as much." "Whether Sunni will become James again depends on what she decides to do with Tabbie, hun. I see happiness for both of them in either form," Allie predicted. "By the way, I think I'll swing over to the Medici system and surprise Gaillan." "So you'll be staying for three years again?" I asked seriously. Allie smiled brightly at me, nodded once, and disappeared. Tibius stood next to me with his mouth open for a minute or two. "Alex...would you know..." he ticked his head to the right slightly with his eyes closed. "Would Cami also be staying for the requisite three years?" "Why," I smiled, "Aren't y'all done with the new suppression generators yet?" "They are completed, yes, I just didn't know we would be testing them so soon, Empress," he admitted reluctantly. "They'll hold this time," I told him, but added, "Almost." I smiled deviously. Tibius took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. "How many blocks will we need to clear for the arrival?" he sighed dejectedly. "Candice will require the same safety zone as Cassi. Remember, while you and your scientists improved the Psi dampening generators, Cami has developed and strengthened her gift. Combined with Candice's own gift, Citadel will have another blowout childbirth celebration." "It seems a shame to crater such a beautiful landscape so soon," Tibius said shaking his head in disappointment. "Commander Steinert! You have got to see the view!" Tabatha screeched as she ran back into our living room. "I know!" I exclaimed with just as much excitement. "Maybe Sunni can take you down to the beach to go swimming. Did you bring your bathing suit, honey?" Sunni, who was just coming into the room stopped dead in her tracks with a stunned expression. The six year old frowned. "No, I don't have one. I don't know how to swim," her frown suddenly turned very sad and tears began falling from her face. "Mommy wouldn't let me go down to the river. She said it was too dangerous." "Well, we have a swimming pool here in the Consulate building. Did you know that? You can learn to swim there before going to the beach," I told the girl. "But I still don't have a swim suit!" she complained. "I think I might have one that fits around here somewhere. Let's go check," I said, taking her hand and guiding her back down the hallway. "This is your room, Commander Steinert?" "Allie and I share the room, yes, you like it?" Tabatha nodded. "Would you like to see where you are staying?" She nodded again as I closed my closet having found no clothing in her size. We left my private suite, walked back one door, and entered one of the guest suites. Unlike mine, this suite was slightly bigger, but had four queen-sized beds instead of my single King-sized bed. This room also lacked the hot tub. The view though, was identical to my suite. Tabatha's eyes opened wide! Walking over to examine each of the four tall, matching, wardrobes, I finally found a bathing suit that might fit her. "Here, try this on, honey. If it fits come back out into the living room and we'll see if Sunni will take you up to the pool." "Alex?" Sunni interrupted from the doorway. "You want to help her with this, hun? I think she wants to get up to two-twelve and hit the pool." "Alex, I...I don't know...I'm not sure about...I don't have a suit either," Sunni babbled. "You're still wearing your Reilly, right?" I asked calmly. "I am, but...but it only has...a limited selection of swimwear...in inventory." "So what is wrong with wearing a bikini? I think you'd look fantastic in the yellow one, hun. It'd go great with your hair," I suggested. "But I'm not..." "You and Tabby go into the lavatory and change. I'll wait out here," I interrupted, immediately shoeing them into the bathroom- Sunni looking back at me in trepidation. Once the door closed, I walked back to the living room. "Find one?" Emily asked as I returned. She winked at me. "Yep. They'll both have every eye on them the minute they enter the room, sis," I giggled. "Which one is Sunni going to wear?" Yuuka asked as she kept looking into the passageway. "The yellow one," I said nonchalantly. Ricky Lynn whistled and shook her head once or twice. "Talk about jumpin' inta the deep end!" "They won't be alone, professor. I was thinking of taking a dip, myself. Anyone else want to join us?" I asked, as my own Reilly became my favorite black, string bikini and translucent cover-up. Tibius' eyes about popped out of his head as his mouth dropped open! "Stop it; you're starting to drool, hun," I told him. Tabby came running out to the living room. "It fits! It fits!" she shouted over and over again. Sunni appeared with a robe wrapped tightly around her. She stopped suddenly and gawked at my sisters and me. We were all wearing bikinis of various colors. "Well? Let's see how y'all look, hun," I motioned for her to remove the robe. "It...it fits. Let's...let's just get to the pool, Tabatha," she stuttered. "Are you all coming with us, Commander Steinert?" The excited girl asked with a big smile. "We were thinking about it, hun. Hey, why don't you call me Alex from now on- save the 'Commander' stuff for Meridian?" I told her. "Okay, Alex, let's go! Come on, Sunni, or...can't you swim either?" "Alexandra?" Tibius began to ask. "Still in your side of the dresser, hun. We'll see you up there," I smiled at him before Tabby and I took Sunni's hands and headed for the elevator. Terra Nuevo, 1130hrs, Climax, Neptinian 13th, 424 of the New Era "Oh, come on!" I groaned, gently smacking Cami's face. "It isn't like you didn't know this could happen, hun! What did you expect; the guy hasn't seen you in ten years." Just like last time, she had passed out at the kitchen when I told her she was now expecting. And just like last time, Allie walked by in the hallway and stopped abruptly. "Let me guess," Allie rolled her eyes. "You told her she's pregnant?" "Alex beat me to it, sis," Emily answered- slightly disappointed as I took my seat and she helped a semi-conscious Cami back into hers. "So you two will be staying on for three more years?" "Maybe a little longer this time, Em. This time," Allie paused to think. "This time I'd like to see my kid grow up instead of being shocked by a young woman just out of puberty appearing on my doorstep calling me 'Mother'," Allie told her. Cami quickly turned and stared at her sister. I just gave a quick snort and shook my head a few times, eyes closed. Ricky Lynn walked into the kitchen. She didn't look so good this morning. "Not feeling so good today, Professor?" I asked innocently. "I think I picked somethin' up on Atlantis. My gut ain't feelin' so great this mornin'." "Have a seat, hun, I'll get you something that'll help," I said as I stood and walked over to the food dispenser. I placed an order and placed the tray down in front of her. "Here, hun. Granny's tried and true remedy for morning sickness," I said as I sat back down. Professor Samuels looked surprised, but immediately looked down to her plate of weak tea and plain toast. "Shoulda' know'd better," she grumbled, picking up and taking a bite of her toast. "Can't a girl keep anything private around you and Miss Busybody?" Jack walked in the door. "I didn't tell Alex a thing, Ricky! She knew well before I did," she said for the record. Ricky Lynn fiercely took another bite of her toast, chewing silently while Jack placed her order at the food dispenser. "So, Jack, how is Sunni handling all the attention from last night?" Emily asked. I almost choked on my coffee. "She was sitting on her bed with her knees under her chin for a good long time, crying. Don't you think playing 'Chicken' was a little too much for her this soon- I mean, Festus is a handsome, well-built man, but..." Jack said sadly. "But she has some issues to work through." "Sunni will be fine after she comes to terms with her gift," Allie said as she sat down next to Cami. "Granted, there are several barriers she must dismantle before that will happen, but it won't be too much longer." "In fact..." I continued, pointing to the hallway. James Smithson appeared in the doorway. "Morning everybody," he greeted halfheartedly as he trudged over to the food dispenser. "Expresso, Empress-blend, double-strength." "Are you okay, Jim?" Emily asked in surprise. From the look on her face she saw he was far from it. "I'll get over it, Aunt Emily," he assured her with a tight smile. "As with all the other times I've traveled with Alex, things are wonderfully FUBAR- I've come to accept that." "We both know that isn't so, Jim," Emily said in her professional voice. "You have taken a giant leap in developing your gift and you have absolutely no reference point or understanding of what to do." "Oh, I understand, doc! I understand that I'm one seriously screwed up individual! What was I even thinking to come along on this mission?" he retorted. "Jimmy, it really didn't matter if you came on this mission..." "Cut the shit, Alex!" Jim interrupted angrily. "I know that my gift would have come whether I was with you or not- that's the only thing I really DO understand! What I can't figure is why? Why me? Why was I the one chosen to play for both teams? Why, Alex?" "Listen, hun, you play for whichever 'team' you like! I didn't have anything to do with which gift was given you! I just know that, out of any of us, you...you, Jim, are most qualified to receive it," I argued calmly. "But why, Alex? What makes me so damn special? What did I ever do to the 'powers that be'?" "Do y'all think I ever wanted to be the Empress? Y'all think Jack or Cami wanted the power of the universe at their command? Or that Yuuka wanted to be a Pixie?" "Well, actually, Alex, I really don't min..." "Can it, Yuuka. I'm trying to make a point here," I said, staring angrily at Yuuka standing in the doorway with Tabatha. "The facts are that you, and only you have been chosen to receive this gift, Jim. Whoever decided what gifts we got, decided that you were the one person that could handle this one- they alone must have decided which gifts we all got because I never ever considered 'Time Travel'!" "I beg to differ, sis," Emily said placing her hand on mine. "How many times when we were dating, and then under way from California, did you mention how you would save Brian if you could just go back to December 7th? How many times, Alex, cause I lost count?" "But I saved Brian and look how that turned out! Brianna's a great sister, but I still miss my brother, Em." "Don't be so thick, Alex! My point is that you really did wish you could travel time...if just to save your brother. Now, I'm no expert on dishing out gifts, but wouldn't such a heartfelt wish like that draw attention?" Emily argued. I decided to stay quiet and let Emily play psychologist. "So you think that I wished this upon myself, Aunt Emily?" Jim asked- a little surprised. "Think back to the first time you met Yuuka, Jim. Do you remember what you were thinking at the time?" Emily asked. I noticed Yuuka and Tabatha take an instant interest as they sat down at the other end of our table. "I was ten years old, doc! I was just starting pub...um...to take an interest in girls. I'm sure Alex, Cami, Jack, Ricky Lynn, and Yuuka all know what I was thinking," Jim declared as he looked uncomfortably at our youngest sister. "I'm sure they do, Jim, but humor me?" "Should we really be doing this in front of Tabby, Aunt Emily?" "Why not? She's mature enough to handle it, Jim. I'm sure she would like to know more about the person she has placed her trust in?" Tabatha nodded slowly as she stared at Jim Smithson in silence. "I...I...I thought she...that Yuuka...that she was the most beautiful creature on the planet! I wanted to know her when she returned to normal. I wanted, so badly to..." Jim started to say, but stopped abruptly and blushed profusely. "You wanted to mate with her," Cami finished his sentence with no embarrassment. "I can't do this," Jim exclaimed as he stood suddenly from his chair. "If this is going to turn into a woman to woman talk," Both Jim and his clothing began to change. "Then I should at least get into character. The embarrassment you're putting me through is killing me!" Sunni finished. "Hi, Sunni! I missed you!" Tabatha cried as she rushed to her and wrapped her arms around Smithson. "Interesting. So...you thought our little talk would be easier if you were the same gender- is that the reason you changed, Jim?" Emily asked as she calmly took a sip of her tea. "The other way felt too awkward, Aunt Emily." "And I feel awkward with you calling me 'Aunt Emily' all the time, Sunni. I'm going to take a page from Alex' book and ask that you call me Emily. We're both adults, right?" Emily smiled pleasantly. Sunni looked down at the tabletop- her shoulders dropped. "I'm sorry," she sighed. "It's an old habit." "So is your thinking, Sunni; old, I mean. Now that your gift has matured, you have to push aside the old and embrace the new. You aren't just James Smithson now, you're also Sunni Smithson. I know it sounds impossible, but you shouldn't be embarrassed by gender specific conversations or situations. Over time what I'm telling you will make better sense- you'll gain experience and relax as Sunni...like you already have for the last week. Changing back to Sunni to have this talk shows me that you're already using the familiarity of the body and its experience, sweetie. But, no matter what form you take, there should be no concern of embarrassment. Have confidence in yourself, girl!" "Ya know, toots, Corrine Masterson went through somethin' like yous is goin' through. She had trouble adjustin' from her Mahanilui," Ricky Lynn told Sunni. "She did?" Sunni gasped in surprise. "Why would she have problems? She can look like anyone." "It took a few months for her to gain enough confidence in herself, Sunni," I revealed. "Jack, show her Corrine's true form, please." "But, Alex, I promised her..." "Sunni won't say anything, Jack," I promised. Sunni nodded her head a few times in acknowledgement. Her face suddenly paled. "That's what...oh my God, how could she walk...in the sub...I mean...wow?" "She was teased mercilessly. Just ask Prof. Samuels," I said flatly. "Had ta bring that up, didn't ya, skipper?" Ricky Lynn sighed. "I told her I was sorry an' she forgive me- ninety-one years ago, Alex." "I know that, hun. I just mentioned it for illustration. What we're trying to tell y'all, Sunni, is that Jim is a handsome man and Sunni is a beautiful woman. The only thing you lack is self-confidence. If Corrine can do it, you have no excuse not to." "Sunni, I know you felt strange at the pool, but you really looked pretty...and you seemed to be having fun too! I'll help you be a girl as much as I can," Tabatha told her. "I'll teach you everything I know so you won't be so embarrassed, okay?" "Come here, Tink," Sunni sniffed as she pulled Tabatha toward her and hugged her tightly. "Acts like a Sunni to me, sis," Allie giggled. "She probably doesn't even realize it, sis," I said quietly as we watched the tender scene. "I hate to be the buzz kill, sis, but don't you have some things to put back?" Allie replied quietly as she nodded to Ricky Lynn and Sunni. "I'm sure Peyton would like to get back to her family." "One thing at a time, Allie. I can't leave before the welcome home ceremony tonight," I reminded. "I just wanted to make sure, sis. I'm officially grounded." Terra Nuevo, 1900hrs, Climax, Neptinian 13th, 424 of the New Era "Lords and Ladies, may I have your attention?" Tibius said loudly after tapping on his fluted glass of delightful Terra Nuevo Ros?. The giant reception hall quieted. "Alexandra and I wish to officially welcome home the crew and passengers of Meridian 12. I cannot begin to say how amazing I find this reunion or how light my heart feels at this moment. I can only hope you find life on Terra Nuevo as equally fulfilling as the life you left back in Egypt. Without further ado, Alexandra would like to say a few words. Welcome and we hope you have a wonderful time tonight. Alex?" "Thank you, Sir Tibius. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish to convey my appreciation for the trust y'all placed in my sisters and I. Without your support and understanding, we couldn't have rescued as many of you as we did," I said, as I looked out at all those seated comfortably. "Over the next few weeks and possibly several years, more of your neighbors and friends will undoubtedly be appearing suddenly and unexplainably. That is my promise to you," I sighed as some people began to clap. "Unfortunately, many loved ones will still refuse my offer of relocation. I want to say that I am sorry upfront, because I cannot ignore their wishes and subsequent decisions, though rest assured, the Empress will watch over those that choose to stay and do everything in our power to see that they always have options available to them," I paused to take a breath. "Wow, for once, I'm the long-winded one," I smiled as I looked down to my right- at Tibius. Several people laughed politely. "I guess I have nothing more to say other than...Let the celebration begin!" The room broke out in applause as my sisters appeared and began serving our guests. Among those serving were Khufu and Anna Beth. A quiet murmur rose from the gathering when some noticed. As usual, Jack and Cami insisted on showing off by flying a whole table's worth of plates to their destinations. Still, most eyes were on the former Pharaoh and Queen of Egypt as they bussed several dinners then went back to the kitchen for more prepared plates. "Administrator, why do you serve us? You and Queen Anna Beth should be at the head table- in a position of respect and honor!" One man said loudly as Khufu placed a plate before him. "My friends," Khufu said loud enough for the whole banquet hall to hear, "Should we not forget that my mate and I have been in your service since I became your Administrator. This is our way of thanking you for your trust and confidence over the years." The man- I recognized him as one of the neighborhood representatives- remained quiet for a moment then shouted, "Here, Here!" Everyone raised his or her glass in a toast. Tibius placed his hand on mine and gently squeezed it. "My Empress, it is time we also served those who lost so much." I nodded as we stood. The busy kitchen appeared around us and I waited until we were in the clear to rephase. The look on the faces as Tibius and I emerged from the kitchen carrying full plates was priceless. Many people took a second or third look between where we had been sitting at the head table and where we were now. "I'll get Khufu an