The Alien Within or Holy Crap, There's An Alien In My Bed!

by Lorraine B.

© 2002, All Rights Reserved

 

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Chapter twenty-four:

We as a family withdrew from the waters, all was well or at least I had hoped so. Gordon placed an arm around me as I held our baby walking. The arboretum was almost empty when we arrived to the shore. We looked into each other's eyes there was the sign of contentment there in Gordon's. I knew that my eyes had the same signs. I was happy with life at this point. I had changed in so many ways whereby I had set a path to self-destruction now my life was stable. I had the universe at my disposal!

"Honey, we have to get you ready for the ascendance ceremony. I'll take Lynn with me. Paul and Eve are waiting for us in the passageway. Paul will be coming with Lynn and I, while Eve will go with you." Gordon said.

All I could do was to give him a kiss. I wanted to do more but there were still many that were walking around in this sanctuary. I heard the dolphins start their medleys and the birds sang as we kissed. There was a peacefulness here that I didn't want to give up.

I began to think if there was a way for the three of us to remain for a time on the ship. I wanted to learn all I could from the people that were on board but at the same time we had obligations back on Earth as we all did. I pushed those thoughts to the back of my mind.

We broke from each other arms, starting to walk toward the passageway that I had previously entered for the ascendancy testing. I felt a bit naked as I walked in my bra and panties, but I saw no one as we walked to the doors. I saw both Paul and Eve waving to them, which they returned eagerly.

"Are you ready Arlene? Both of your mothers are in Arlene's stateroom waiting for Arlene." Eve said softly.

"And both fathers are waiting for Gordon in his." Paul said.

"I don't like the sound of that. Alright, What's going on you two?" I said.

 

By the expressions they had on their faces I just know they had to hiding something.

"Honest Arlene all they said is that they had a surprise for the both of you. We swear we know nothing else, besides we have been sworn to secrecy By the Grand Duchesses." Eve said.

Grand Duchesses? Who the hell were they? I must have had a stupid look on my face.

"Your mother and Amanda hold the title of Grand Duchess and advisors to the queen, king, and Princess Lynn." Eve said.

"Our fathers each hold the title of Grand Duke and advisor to the king of the realm." Gordon said.

"Okay stop, I still have much to learn about this nobility stuff. Now who were all those people at the testing?"

"They were the High and Low Council members from the other ships in the Armada. Now we better get going and get ready." Gordon said.

We embraced one further time I didn't want Gordon to leave me. Eve and Paul pulled us apart with Gordon, Lynn, and Paul going in one direction and with Eve pulling me forcibly into the other direction.

 

Again, we walked those passageways of the ship. Again I saw no one else. Several times I stopped to look out at the stars and planets in the viewing ports. I saw nothing except the depths of the cold, pitch-blackness of space. On the second stop seeing the planet Pluto and its satellite moon, Chiron, rewarded me, although I didn't know it until Eve told me. She explained the mothership was in an orbit encircling the smallest and farthest planet of the solar system, Pluto.

Due to the technology we had, it was next to impossible for anyone to detect all the ships or their presence either by sight or spurious electronic transmissions. She also explained that this was a perfect listening post to hear and watch for other species that might come to visit or cause trouble to Earth. Not all the species that traveled in space were or are as peaceful as we are.

I had always heard of the planets but had never dreamed I would get to see any of them. This was the dream of many on Earth, I so wished I could make those dreams possible for them. Perhaps one day it would be possible.

We continued to walk to our destination. As I have stated before all the passageways and doors looked the same to me. Was I lost? Oh yes! Did I know what part of the ship I was in? Oh No! I guess I'd better get a map and a sense of direction.

We finally arrived at our destination, entering through the doors into what could be appropriately described as my Stateroom Suite. I was happy to see and hear that no one seemed to be around. I went to the bathing area, taking off my panties and bra set while Eve stayed out in the lounge area.

I saw an enclosure near the wall not unlike the shower stalls on Earth. Quickly I entered it. I needed to remove the salt that was still on my body. I saw a nozzle in the wall but no handles for the water. I remembered that mostly everything was done onboard by either voice or mental commands. I first tried mental commands that didn't seem to work. Then I said, "Shower, water on, one hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit." Those seemed to be the magic words as the water came from the nozzle with a gentle force.

"I see you found the shower and how to operate it. When you're finished, dry off and I brought you a robe and slippers. Then we'll eat." Mother's voice said loudly from across the room.

"Mother, please make sure that Eve also eats with us please."

Mother sounded too pleasant I've heard that tone before in her voice. There was a problem she was worried about that she didn't want to tell me about yet. Like in the old days we just had to let her bring it up in the conversation otherwise she would remain silent and then there would be hell to pay. Possibly I could change that. I quickly finished the shower and put on a robe and slippers I found that mother had brought in.

Entering the lounge area was an entertainment and communications area. Built into another wall was, by Earth standards, a bar that had dishes of food with different colored decanters of liquids. There was also what appeared to be an Earth style microwave oven that I was to find out was a food synthesizer that prepared all the food and liquids if we wished to dine in our stateroom.

Mother, Amanda, and Eve had already gotten their food and were sitting down waiting for me. I was happy that this was totally informal, as I did want to just relax as I did in our house on Earth eating meals in the kitchen with Carmen our Chef. I really missed her!

Walking to the food dishes I took and feasted on shrimp, abalone, scallops and kelp. There was a deep red liquid that I took just a bit of, since I didn't know what it was and no one said to me what it was.

I sat down at a table with them seated around me saying, "Okay, mothers, what's the problem? Don't try to hide it. Remember I can also feel your emotions. Or conceivably I can force it out of the both of you."

"Eve since you are intelligence and security for the Armada, will you do the honors?" Amanda asked.

"My Queen…………" Eve said and stopped.

"Eve, don't you dare give me that My Queen stuff. Spit it out!"

"Well…………Um………… we had a moving contact that was picked up by one of our probes a few days ago that entered one of the galaxies that are still many light years away. It was decided to send one of our heavy cruisers based on Mother Ship Three to do a reconnaissance of that galaxy and find out who they are after a planet disappeared."

"Wait a minute, what the hell is a heavy cruiser doing with the fleet? I thought that we're peaceful? What can this ship do and how many are there? How big is it? How………? A whole planet?"

"I'll answer those questions, Eve. Okay first we are peaceful but we will not stand by to be slaughtered by another species. It was decided by the queen on the homeworld to make sure all of the explorers had a way of fighting back if attacked. It is called self-preservation!

Each of the Mother Ships carries four heavy cruisers that are attached to beneath the hull and interlocked to us. They are over two miles long in length. All are heavily armored for fending off projectiles weapons and have the ability to absorb all forms of energy-based weapons rendering those weapons useless. The weapons on just one Cruiser can, if used, destroy a small planet but that could deplete their energy stores. We have never done that and we hope to we never will. They are all extremely fast and maneuverable exceeding several times the speed of light with wormhole flight capabilities. All ship systems are updated as we develop new technology.

Each Cruiser can take several of our Shuttles on board for re-supplying and carry fifty Scout Ships. The Scout crews normally stay on their craft as they have living quarters there. They are ready at a moments notice for flight. Their firepower, electronics, propulsion systems and weapons can almost match the cruisers though they are faster with less armor. The cruiser is a base for our scouts as the Mother Ships are bases to all of the craft."

"By my rough calculations that's over twenty thousand Scout Ships and four hundred of these heavy cruisers. That's over one hundred and twenty thousand for just the crews of the scouts. Okay, so what about this contact that was found?" I asked.

"The probes that were fired from the cruiser sent back more information to the Cruiser that immediately was evaluated. It is a mining vessel that belongs to a race called Krea'ckh. They have a nasty habit of destroying planets that are habitable or not. They seem to care less if there are lifeforms on a planet as long as they get what they seek, water and the minerals. By the cruiser and scouts plotting their course and speed they are headed they are enroute to this Solar System, directly to Earth."

"I would have to assume by all of you that we are about to lose our adopted world, is that correct?"

"Arlene, both Amanda and I have seen what this race has done to many planets. The answer, I would say, is yes."

"I see several problems, the first is that Earth is still not technically advanced to fend off these interlopers. The second is that Earth is now our adopted home world. Do we tell these people what is coming? How in the hell do we explain who or what we are? How do we convey to them that we are not hostile? Do we tell them everything? Can the governments be trusted? That last question I have to say is, No." I said as I popped a garlic-buttered scallop into my mouth.

"It has always been the policy to never be deceitful to any species. We normally do have a non-interference policy but in this situation I think that it has been voided. I know that the High and Low Councils will do as you request they do." Amanda said.

"Mother, It is not as I wish, it is a matter of what is right, to ensure that all the people of this planet we live on survive and flourish."

I resumed eating my meal looking at everyone at the table. I saw them all nod their heads in agreement and smile. I knew at that moment that I had made the right decision. But the major question was how to show the people of Earth that we meant no harm to anyone. Sure, I believe it was within our technological means to take control of their nuclear stores or anything electronic and mechanical. I couldn't help but giggle out loud a scenario that could conceivably unfold.

"What's so funny, dear?" my mother asked quizzically.

"Oh, I just thought of an old Sci-Fi movie with Michael Renee and Patricia Neal."

"Oh, Which one?" Eve asked.

"The Day the Earth Stood Still."

"I remember that one with the robot cop and the alien that came to warn Earth. It was either peace or total annihilation, if I recall. It was an excellent movie. I think we have it in the library." Amanda said.

"That's the one. Now we're in that type of situation except we have to tell the Earth of an impending disaster. I mean we could do all of the things in that movie, but how do we control the panic? If we make too large of a showing with our craft they may retaliate thinking they are to be invaded. Again we have panic but by the military with the possibility of the loss of life, mostly theirs."

"Dear, I hate to rush you but we still have to get you ready for the investiture ceremony. We'll work it out but for now your people need a queen. We can talk as we get you ready."

"Your mother's is correct. I'll clean the table off and be in to help." Eve said.

Amanda and my mother each took me by an arm gently lifting and steering me to another room that I had dressed in earlier.

 

Okay I was a mess! Amanda and my mother took care of my hair, nails and makeup. All they kept saying is that a queen had to be presentable and a lady at all times. Alright, so I do like the relaxed, casual look. While they worked to get me ready, I thought of the situation we were in. I had decided on a course of action that might go against the councils and our laws. I could see no other way of us not getting involved.

"Since you're both here I need witnesses to what I'm about to do." I said.

"Don't you dare do what I think you are going to do, Arlene." My mother said.

"She wouldn't do that, would she?" Amanda said.

"Eve come in here. Drop what you're doing. Now girl!" I yelled.

As soon as Eve entered I said, "Tell the pilot or captain………"

"It's the captain dear, and she's right beside you doing your hair."

I must have had a strange look on my face saying stupidly, "Huh……?"

"Damn it! The captain is your mother and father, Arlene." Amanda said.

"Okay, I want this ship to go under stealth to within two nautical miles of the Earth's space station. I want this ship to maintain this position until we are ready. You will notify the Armada so they will not be alarmed. They are all to monitor what we will do. Nothing else is to be disclosed until I state so.

Eve, can we tap into all the Earth's military and diplomatic frequencies and video. What about their classified frequencies?"

"Sure, but………?

"No buts! I want this done! Ouch! Don't pull so hard on my hair mother. Eve, either you or Paul will tell me when it can be done or finished."

"You heard your queen, Eve. Whatever she has planned had better work." Amanda said.

"Eve, please also tell Tommy to make all preparations to get under way. Alert the Armada and the crew of our intention to leave orbit." My mother said with remorse.

"Mothers, Eve, I intend to tell the Earth of our existence. We will be requesting a meeting of all the superpower leaders and those leaders that can and will attend at the United Nations Building in seventy-two hours after our existence is confirmed by the space station crew and by NASA. They must find out about the impending danger to their and our world or we will lose another world."

"We can see your point but there has to be another way to avoid this exposing of us all. There seems to be several problems such as emissaries, panic of the masses and our very existence." Amanda said

"Oh no you don't mother, I can see right through that ploy to make me change my mind."

"Eve, do as I said. There is no way of turning around now or going back. I am committed to my decision. Furthermore I am my own emissary! I would not send someone else into possible danger without me going first."

"Correction Arlene, we as in all of us are committed. The Elders will approve your decisions. You have proved yourself this day to be worthy of the title ‘Queen of Our People’ and will have the respect of your people."

Amanda took my hand and kissed it then bowed followed by my mother and Eve as I blushed.

"Grand Duchesses Amanda and Iris, I thank you and you too Eve, my security specialist." After saying those words, I too bowed to them all.

As Eve left to do my dirty work, Amanda and my mother attacked me with everything they had stashed in clothing. Most of the articles of my clothing came from Earth such as my undergarments and shoes. For some reason they felt that the ship's uniform clothing would not be appropriate for the ceremony. My feeling of the ship’s clothing was they were comfortable and fulfilled a purpose. I just hoped I didn't look like Dale Arden or a ‘Ming the Merciless’ clone again.

I didn't mind the emerald green satin corset and lace panties I was thrown into. I became used to the corset going to the fancy formal affairs I had to attend with Gordon. Next they helped me with sheer green stockings and green dyed three-inch heeled sling back pumps. Next was a multi-layered green crinoline and half-slip.

 

They both disappeared for several minutes into what I imagined was my closet. When my mother and mother-in-law came out they held a gorgeous emerald green satin and lace gown that closed down the center of the back with emerald green satin covered buttons with a zipper below the waist. The sleeves and top of the bodice are also emerald green colored sheer lace and the remainder of the bodice to the waist is covered with the same layer. It had a high neckline made also of green lace. The sleeves were pointed and closed with one green satin covered button. The waist of the gown was fitted and gathered. The skirt was edged with lace including the train that was approximately five-foot long. There were also lace sections sewn to the train and the front of the skirt. There are pearl shells sewn to these sections with various fish and crustaceans portrayed in embroidery on the train. The bodice of the gown was double lined with satin and the skirt was unlined. I remembered that the woman I saw in the picture, my other mother or donor, was wearing an identically styled dress.

After I had the dress on I thought it looked to me as more of a wedding dress instead of a gown a queen would wear. I was not about to cause a scene because of this dress. It was beautiful and I looked good that was all that counted.

Both mothers asked me to sit out in the lounge while they got ready leaving me to my thoughts and the butterflies in my stomach. I regretted eating all of that rich seafood.

I sat on the edge of a lounge chair being very careful not to wrinkle the fabric. I would never hear the end of having wrinkles in my dress. My mother was unforgiving in those types of matters. I had learned well from my experiences with her and my sisters.

I replayed my words to my mothers and to Eve in my mind. I was convinced I had done the right thing. It was then that I heard the words I wanted to hear coming from a panel in the wall near the door.

"This is the captain speaking. All hands prepare to get underway. Make all underway and system reports to captain on the bridge. The ship is at condition yellow. I repeat condition yellow. All defensive weapons on line and ready to fire if needed."

As I heard those words I thought that the voice sounded familiar. Then I told myself it was my father's voice. I imagined him onboard and in command of an earth ocean going vessel. I thought that both sailors at sea and in space used the same terminology and I again thought of the similarities.

 

As I daydreamed I didn't hear my mothers enter the compartment until Amanda touched my shoulder lightly. I turned my head to them, both wore similar gowns but in pastel green. I was helped to my feet with each of them taking an arm while I grabbed the train of my dress.

Going out the door or hatch and into the passageway we took an anti-grav pad straight up. My stomach was once again in rebellion but I ignored it. When the pad stopped I had to let my eyes adjust to the blue lighting. Many people dressed in their shipboard uniforms were gathered by electronic consoles and panels that contained many different colored lights that flashed, blinked or remained steady.

I saw Gordon, his father Daniel, and of course my father walk toward us after my eyes had adjusted. Paul stood to the side cradling Lynn in his arms.

"Ladies, High Elder Felicia Cortez is ready to begin the ceremony. Lady Arlene are you ready?" My father asked as he took my arm.

"Yes, father, we are." I answered.

All he did was nod his head as Gordon took my hand into his leading us all to the center of the bridge where nearby two flight chairs were affixed to the decking.

There was a Hispanic lady about Amanda's and my Mother's age standing on a raised platform in standard shipboard uniform holding a book. I had to assume this was the High Elder Felicia Cortez.

"Please step in front of me." She said.

"By what right are you here before me?"

I at once felt the gentle push at my privacy wall. It was Gordon telling me what to say.

"We are here to claim the right of ascendancy to the throne. We claim that right through royal bloodline to join the two continents as one through our marriage and our daughter, the Princess Lynn our heir. May our world be one, may our people be one, joined through the monarchy and this union." Gordon and I said in unison.

"Is there any dissension or challenge as to the bloodline of the prince and princess?"

There was absolute silence on the bridge.

"Very well!"

From the corner of my eyes I saw movement. It was Sheila, Irene and Karla carrying a pillow each that held the crowns and scepters of the people we were to serve and unite.

"By these symbols, do you swear to all the people you are there for them at all times for their protection and maintain their growth as a people casting aside any personal gain?"

"We do."

"Accept now the symbols of your office, Queen Arlene and King Gordon."

Gordon and I had the crowns placed on our heads. On our right hand ring fingers were placed simple gold rings decorated with a crown and scepter etched on an emerald.

 

In our right hands we took up the golden colored scepters, the symbols of the king and queen and the authority we held.

"Your people have waited for this day since the destruction of our homeworld. We have all watched you both grow into the beings you are now. The lessons learned were invaluable to your nature. The most important lesson was that you are human, you can and will make mistakes. We as a people ask that you take guidance from all. The weight of the people you serve is great. As queen and king, wife and husband, mother and father you are one.

The people are united once again. We as a people have a queen and king. Rejoice! Let peace, knowledge, and prosperity flourish throughout our people.

Your Majesties, Queen Arlene the first and King Gordon the first do you accept these responsibilities?"

"We Do"

With those final words from the High Elder Cortez and ourselves, we turned to face those on the bridge. The cheers erupted by those on the Bridge that watched the ceremony. Gordon and I breached protocol by giving each other a kiss, which made the cheers grow louder.

I looked over to all the people that celebrated with their cheering. I was proud to be a part of their lives. I silently thought to myself that I hoped this would not be the last time they where able to express their joy.

"My Queen."

I turned around to face High Elder Cortez.

"Congratulations are in order for this day on your ascendancy to the throne. We of the councils have all received your orders and agree with the decision you made in regards to Earth. You shall have our full cooperation in this operation."

"High Elder Cortez, It was with a heavy heart that I placed all of us in the greatest possible danger. How did you know what I planned?"

"We believe you slipped and let your wall fail. Every man, woman and child in the Armada and on Earth heard your thoughts. At first the Council members where affronted that it was not discussed with them, but then we each realized the dropping of the veil of your private thoughts was perhaps no more than accidental."

The mental note to myself was; you were negligent. Be aware what you do! The entire Armada? I'm a walking psychic transmitter! In the whole solar system? All I could do was to smile very diplomatically of course while I chastised myself mentally.

"We thank the councils for the approval of my plans. The doors are always open to any of the council members for any type of problem. We will try to ensure there will be a solution to any problems that may occur. If you will excuse us but I think it would be advisable for us to be dressed in the clothing of the ship and crew. I feel out of place dressed as I am."

"I understand totally my queen. Thank you again for the insight."

With those words I went to Paul to get my daughter and spend some time with her.

"Your Highness," Paul said as I approached.

"Paul, thank you for taking such good care of Lynn for us. I need to spend some time with her, so I'll take her while you go help Eve. I'm afraid I gave her a massive assignment to do."

"Thank you, Your Highness," he said as he left for the anti-grav pads.

I then walked over to Gordon and the rest of the family with Lynn cradled in my arms.

"I don't know about anyone one else but I am really uncomfortable. Gordon will you come with me to our stateroom, please, and help me get out of these clothes."

All at once I saw the eyebrows go up on my mother's face. It was then that I realized what I had said.

"I didn't mean that way, mother. I want to get into the ships uniform so I at least blend in normally. Besides I think I'm finally married if I translated those vows and ceremony correctly."

"Your Highness, you were also married by our traditions. You will never blend in normally again. I can see your reasoning and I quite agree. Let us all go change our clothing." Amanda said with a smile.

"Daddy, how long will it be before we reach our objective area?"

"Your Highness, I would have to say about four Earth hours. Why don't you all go and get comfortable. I'll send a message to you when we are within visual range.

Arlene, Your Highness, my daughter, Oh Crap! We are so very proud of what you are about to do. We all feel the same way, as do you. The Council refused to make a decision but you jumped right into the situation. We, all the crews, feel it is right and just." My father said as he gave me a kiss on the cheek.

I blushed as we all walked to the anti-grav pads to the cheering of all the people on the Mother Ship's bridge.

 

Chapter twenty-five:

 

Gordon, Lynn and I went to our staterooms. Having changed our clothes into the working uniforms of the ship we both shared the duties of taking care of the necessities of baby care which included much parental love before going to sleep after Lynn had her breast milk.

Gordon and I sat next to each other after Lynn was asleep, with his arms around me just holding me tightly. This was our time, the time for us to be with each other privately. I knew that the next several days and months were going to be a strain on the both of us.

As we were together I must have fallen asleep too. All I could recall was to be awaken by the blare of the announcing system calling me.

"Your Highnesses, we are within visual range of the Earth's space station. We took care not to make any ripples to give us away in the time-displacement theory of theirs," my father said laughing.

He knew as well as I now know that we had gone well beyond that theory in our technology. As a child I was never the scientist, I was always the adventurer to take the risks. Father used to say that scientists were adventurers too, that many of their experiments and calculations were risks. You know, I now know he's right!

"We'll be right up, father."

I looked a Gordon just as I door annunciator went off.

"Door open, please," Gordon said aloud allowing the door to open for our visitor.

"Your Highnesses, I'm sorry to disturb you." Eve said stiffly.

"Eve, while you and Paul are in conference or in our house you will always address as we have always been. And since this is our home……"

"The Royal Brat has spoken." Gordon said teasingly. Damn, he must have spoken to Sheila!

I seriously wanted to hit him but we did have company. He would get what was coming to him later.

"Okay, thank you for that honor. Well anyway as I was beginning to say was that everything is ready for your broadcast on their frequencies. I hope you don't mind but we did some tweaking with the computer and tapped into their top-secret security frequencies. You know the ones they think can't be broken into. I guess they will know then, that we are for real. We also are already into the video channels of NASA and some of the military channels through their spy satellites. The computers are set to interpret you words, inflections and voice into all the Earth's languages."

"Well then, its show time then."

"Your……………Uh………Arlene, Gordon, if I may suggest, It would be best if you both wore your crowns and carried the scepters of you office." Eve said.

"My opinion would be that it's too……… ostentatious." I said.

"Yes I agree it would be, but it would impress them on the video I believe, my dear wife."

"I guess you're both right on that matter. But I will only wear the crown."

Gordon left the room briefly to retrieve the crowns of state.

"Eve, I need a favor."

"Sure anything, if I can do it."

"I want a Scout to bring Carmen up to this ship. Other than you, Paul and family she was the only one to control Lynn."

"Didn't Amanda and Iris tell you?"

"Tell me what?"

"She is onboard. She was the one that made that meal for us."

"Why didn't you tell me? Where is she?"

"She knows and will be here shortly. She was one of the passengers on our shuttle flight that you didn't see. She was told to be quiet by us as a surprise to you. Gordon made the arrangements for her to be picked up by a separate car."

I was so happy I hugged Eve. In the time I spent in the house on the beach it was Carmen that helped to keep me sane and focused. She always took the time to be with Lynn or me even though she was busy in the kitchen. She became more than an employee she became a part of our family from our mothers to my sisters. She became my mother and Amanda's best friend and sometimes an advisor.

 

"I'll stay here with Lynn and wait for Carmen, while you and Gordon go to the bridge.

The communications you have will only be one way. You can talk and they will have to listen. I only hope we are not using too much power to send those signals out."

"It will be fine whatever you did. I too, hope they will listen."

Gordon came with his crown on and holding mine. He placed it on my head that it rested as an earth style headband would. The center pieces of the crown was again an emerald of large proportions perhaps at least three inches in size, finely etched and polished and surrounded by diamonds of at least five carats apiece surrounded by more smaller diamonds. It was then that I realized that this was not the crown I wore earlier but it was the one in the picture of Aimaila of Kriac, the queen.

"Where is the other crown?"

"I had these made by our craftsmen with materials gathered from Earth. They were made true from the historical archives. It is my gift to you on this day. "

"I love it but don't you think it's a bit pretentious?"

"Not for you, my Queen, or for our predecessors." Gordon said giving me a kiss.

"Remind me to thank you for it later."

"Oh, I will. I will."

We waved to Eve as we walked out the door to the anti-grav units. I swear I'm going to have to get motion sickness pills if I have to keep using these. Gee, I wonder if there are stairs anywhere?

Upon reaching the bluish-lighted bridge we were escorted to the chairs we saw earlier and were told to be comfortable by a crewmember.

I saw another crewmember and asked, "Could we please see the Earth and it's space station."

On a type of screen in front of us I was barely able to make out the planet much less the space station.

As the seconds went by the size of the earth increased until we saw the space station. I thought of the hard work of all those involved. Now we show up with this engineering marvel. I thought of how inferior they would feel. I wanted to tell them that you had to crawl before you could walk.

"Your Majesties, we are within the stated range you ordered."

I saw that Eve and Paul had arrived along with others. Paul and Eve took positions behind and to our sides. I remained totally impassive with no facial expressions.

"Are we ready captain?"

"Whenever you say Your Highness."

"Let's do it then."

I waited until my father pointed to me to begin talking and then saying, "People of the planet Earth we bid you peaceful greetings from another solar system. As of this moment we have taken control of all of your destructive weapons and have rendered them harmless as all your militaries can confirm. All mobile weapons on platforms have been rendered useless this also includes your submarines and truck mounted missile systems.

"Now we will give you ten minutes so that I may speak to your world leaders. You must assure them that this is not a hoax. As we speak, we are within visual distance of the Earth's first space station. They will confirm our existence by radar and visual once we allow them to do so. They must also confirm to you our existence via your encrypted communications to maintain secrecy from the general public so as not to cause undo panic. When they have been prepared we will know.

"The captain of this vessel has told me that we can now be seen and be probed electronically. We will be monitoring your communications before we resume."

I felt a light push on my wall 'You did great so far. I bet that there are some very high-ranking military men that are having terminal diarrhea right now.' it was Eve that joined our thoughts.

I almost lost my control and laughed. How could I explain what Eve thought? Oh well, it's back to work.

"Leaders of the planet Earth, I am Queen Arlene and to my side is my husband King Gordon. In seventy-two hours from now you will be receiving an emissary from me at the United Nation's Building in New York City. I request you treat that person as you would any diplomat.

"What that person says to your General Assembly is of the utmost importance to the survival of your planet, the people and all life that inhabit it. The danger you face is more deadly than you can possibly imagine and I stress it is not from us. I suggest to the entire planet to unite and drop all forms of hostilities amongst yourselves. That is why we are suggesting all the Earth's leaders be present with their delegates.

"One further item for you to note, that your gifted astronomer Carl Sagan was wrong. There is intelligent life in the universe and your space station crew has thusly, seen that proof."

"Your Highness, their Space Shuttle has just been launched from the Space Station and heading toward us."

"Very well, Captain intercept it and bring it into the landing bay."

I watched as a squadron of six of our Scout Ships intercepted the Space Shuttle bringing them closer to the Mother Ship with the greatest of care and caution.

"To the President of the United States and to NASA by now you must realize that we have control of your Space Shuttle. Your crew will be our guests, as the Shuttle gets refueled. The crew will be safely returned to you shortly. I assure you they are in no harm by anyone on our vessels. As I have said seventy-two hours. Thank you."

"End communications and return their circuits to normal. Maintain control of their weapon circuits." I said

"Their Space Shuttle and crew are now safely aboard. They are coming out of the Shuttle now," my father said.

"Paul meet that crew give them a tour and bring them to my stateroom."

"Yes, Your Highness. My pleasure."

I saw the smiles of joy around the bridge. Everyone seemed to be in a festive mood. All I thought was that now the wheels were put into motion. Now what?

 

Chapter twenty-six:

 

We arrived back at our stateroom with Eve in tow. We decided to keep one member of the shuttle crew onboard not as a hostage but to report to those on Earth what technology we had, as they would do undoubtedly. We would also show that person the Armada or maybe just a portion of it. The ship was still visible to those on the space station that we knew were watching these events unfold.

As I approached the door it opened and I walked in. Carmen was seated on a chair reading a paperback novel when she saw it was us. She dropped the book and ran toward us screaming her joy.

"Carmen, it was such a surprise to find out that you were here." I said hugging her, as I would hug Amanda or my mother.

"Now you've gone and done it. How am I supposed to keep my mouth shut to the other chefs about being in a spaceship? And with royalty no less!" Carmen said as she again kissed all of us.

"Carmen I need a favor from you."

"Anything!"

"Well there are some Astronauts coming from the Space Station and…………"

"There is no need to explain, Senora. Sure it will be done and right here in the magnificent kitchens on this ship."

"Oh, thank you. Thank you so very much, Carmen."

As Carmen left the stateroom for the preparation of the feast for those people, the three of us sat until the communications panel called for Eve, which she took in another room on her comm. device.

"Ah………… We have a bit of a problem with the Shuttle Crew and the Shuttle. There are ten guests instead of the normal crew of seven. I told Paul to bring them here after the tour. By the way, they are filming everything. Should we stop them or erase the films?

Also our flight people have found a fuel leak. One of their engines may fail at a critical moment, but the worst is there is a massive hull micro crack that can't be seen. If that ship flies it could or will destroy itself and the Astronauts. We think it was cased by stress."

"Gordon, what do you think?"

"Honey, I would let them film. After all we will be sharing most of our technology. I think we should keep them all for a while and take one back to the space station. I have a feeling that several of them where to relieve a crew on the Space Station and are now just curious passengers"

"Tell my father and mother to use their own discretion. I will abide by whatever decision they make. Stress to them that they are our guests."

Gordon and I sat with each other as Eve relayed what we had said.

Upon returning Eve said, "Your father agrees with you both as does your mother. They've sent for the Armada engineer for help. I've already told Paul."

"Eve, can we pick up any of the satellite news stations in here?"

"Sure, after what we pulled off today we can do anything, I think."

"Computer, hologram, Earth satellite feed, Scan Cable Network News, real time."

It was almost instantaneous that we began to watch the news coming from satellite feed in what amounted to be a life size image that appeared solid.

There was a special announcement that the superpowers of the world leaked information to the press that they had all lost control over their nuclear weapon stockpiles though none of the nuclear power plants were affected. The weapons had all been suddenly neutralized which mystified all the scientists.

There was a further report that all radio communications among the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard of the United States was disrupted.

 

There was another report that all the radio system on the Space Station and the Space Shuttle had ceased working or as the press speculated there was a news blackout that something may have gone wrong up there in space.

Paul had entered our stateroom with our guests after announcing himself. We all stood to greet our guests forgetting about the hologram.

 

"I want to place an order for one of those TVs. Damn, look at the size of that thing. Life sized!"

"Nyet, We have better in Moskva."

"Your majesties, I present the Space Shuttle Crewmembers that disembarked."

"We welcome you all to Mother Ship One. I hope your tour has been productive." I said

"Why yes Ma'am, I'm the Commander of the mission, United States Navy Commander Jake Filipowski. We appreciate the hospitality of this magnificent craft." The Mission Commander said while introducing the rest of the crewmembers.

 

We all made our introductions to the crew. We also explained to them the problems with their craft and why it was unsafe to fly it. They all agreed that safety of the ship and crew was a priority. We made arrangements for the Commander to contact NASA and the space station to tell everyone, all was well and they were not being held incommunicado on Mother Ship One. We allowed the pictures they took to be sent to NASA and Moscow.

 

While the Commander was gone with Paul, Eve called some of the security personnel to take the crewmembers to quarters. I could see that they all needed to relax before the meal that Carmen was preparing.

Gordon and I spoke to each other in reference to the shuttle and how to get back to Earth. We had a slight problem or so we thought.

"Computer, find the Captains and Lady Amanda. Have them come to our stateroom."

"Done. They are enroute."

After several minutes of waiting my parents and Amanda walked into our Stateroom. When they sat, I began.

"We have a slight problem called the Space Shuttle and one crewmember of the space station."

"We know about the Shuttle, it's being repaired. It will be placed into one of our Cargo Shuttles and delivered to Florida," my father said smiling.

"I suggest that the Space Shuttle not leave until we are ready to leave for New York City. Also have the technicians upgrade what they can for NASA. Everything of each modification must be documented for them. Their Commander is talking to NASA now on a secure circuit.

One of those Astronauts has to go back to the Space Station, as a gesture of goodwill I suggest we upgrade the Space Station too but at a later time."

"The Astronaut can be taken back by a Scout without a problem. The upgrades and repairs will take about forty-eight hours. Sure we can do the space station after your visit or send a team there now," mother said.

The annunciator announced we had visitors. The door opened to allow Eve and Jake Filipowski into the suite.

When all were introduced, the Naval Commander saluted those introduced and then shook their hands.

"Commander we have some good news and some bad news for you." I said

"I know we are all prisoners or hostages." He said angrily almost spitting the words out.

"No, No, on the contrary Commander. Your Space Shuttle is being repaired as we speak. The systems will be upgraded also. We will transport the crew and the shuttle back to Florida before we address the UN General Assembly. It will be flown inside one of our transport cargo craft.

The one astronaut from the space station will be returned to it to complete their mission. Is that equitable?" I said

"Why yes, yes it is. Frankly I didn't know what to expect. My bosses just ripped me a new, pardon the expression………"

"A new asshole?" Gordon said.

"Wait a minute here. How do you know that expression?" Jake said suspiciously.

"I think you better have a seat, Commander. We have a story to tell you." Gordon said before going into great detail of our homeworld and the destruction of it. The Commander was told everything except for a few things like me being a male for over fifty years and Gordon having our baby.

"You're saying that there are over a hundred ships like this hidden in various parts of this Solar System?

Your people have been living and visiting earth for over a century. Queen Arlene and King Gordon were born in California.

"With the wars, disease, and famines that we've had, why in the world didn't you help?" Jake said.

"We have a policy of non-interference with any species. We have been mostly a non-aggressive people except when threatened." I said.

"Our Queen and King have decided that you must know of the impending danger you face. The Krea'ckh are a ruthless species. They have no scruples in destroying worlds.

You have been developing your own science and technology by yourselves, perhaps at times with a nudge from us in the right direction. Every invention was by the original inventor and not by us.

We have decided to help primarily as Earth is our planet too. Many of our people have families still there, husbands, wives and children. Earth is our adopted planet, but we feared to be exposed as aliens to be hunted down by governments wanting to experiment and dissect us.

We are humanoid but it is also true that we are different due to the radiation exposure of space travel and our advanced technology. Nonetheless we are all human beings." Amanda said with tears in her eyes.

The Commander went to Amanda, placing his hand into hers saying, "Welcome to Earth."

"Commander, I think you should tell them what NASA, the UN Secretary-General and the President said." Eve said.

"Oh Yeah I forgot. Well after I was reamed and read the riot act they connected the UN Secretary-General and the President to the radio. As the Space Shuttle Commander, pilot, engineer and the officer in charge, I have been made your Ambassador and Liaison to Earth. Sorry, no credentials, but I do have a witness in what was said."

"They also said the Commander was also promoted to the rank of Admiral for the duration, with congressional and UN approval by the convening of the meeting. They asked if possible to bring him with you to the meeting you had asked for." Eve said.

"Excuse me, but you scared the living hell out of them. I could hear the fear in their voices and believe me I know fear. They're scared shitless!" Jake said.

"That was our intention to do just that. That fear will be ten fold after that meeting." I said.

"Well I have to admit the shit stains will run deep and very brown until that meeting." Jake said.

We all had been talking for over an hour when Hurricane Carmen flew through the door.

"Senors y Senoras, I have been working with the other chefs preparing the meals for our guests. Now those peoples won't let me serve them."

"What are you talking about Carmen?" Amanda said.

"Those peoples outside the guest's rooms."

Paul and Eve gave me the sign they didn't do anything. By the shocked looks on their faces I knew Amanda and mother didn't do anything. When I looked at my father he was the one that had the look. He did it!

"Eve, Paul, go to every one of those staterooms and remove those guards that father put there. It is my order, no my command!" I said angrily.

"Father these people are guests of the Armada and now the Ambassador has been insulted. Please apologize for the incident." I said.

"But Arlene…………"

"No, buts. Please do as I ask."

"I apologize for the incident, Admiral."

"There's no need to apologize sir. I understand the need for security. I can safely say that all those people can be trusted including our Russian friend. I would trust them all with my life and I do that in space on an hourly basis."

"Carmen, please see to it that all our guests and us are fed." Gordon said softly as Hurricane Carmen flew happily from the stateroom.

I looked at my father and nudged his wall, 'Father, I love you but we have to show our trust in these people in order to help them. Please don't be angry or hurt."

I saw his smile he understood the reasoning we had in removing the security. I had to wonder what other problems we would have. I didn't have to wait too long to find out.

The annunciator sounded again but the door remained closed so we knew it wasn't Paul or Eve.

"Door, open please."

As the door opened our boisterous Russian Cosmonaut came into our stateroom.

"Tovarisch, I have come to ask to use your radio. Moskva will be worried about Gregor and me." He said.

It was then that Paul and Eve came through the door after announcing themselves.

"Yes and so will the KGB, Komitet Gosudarstvennoy Bezopasnosti and the FSK, Federal'naya Sluzhba Kontr-Razvedky, Tovarisch. You will be limited to the frequencies to be used. You will only speak to your President. No other reports about us will leave this ship." Gordon said as I looked on smiling.

I saw the blank look on his face. The admiral stood there with a smile on his. To coin an old Earth seafarer expression the wind was taken out of his sails.

"You've been caught, Alexei. I have had my suspicions for a long time but they have just been confirmed."

"I will not lie to you. Yes, it is true. How did you find out?"

"Alexei we base our society on trust. We also have a gift to communicate by thought to others. The Admiral will explain that to you later. All I will tell you is we heard every thought and worry you have. You have no reason to be suspicious of us or to be suspicious of anyone. We are not your employers but we are your friends. And you are not being held against your will." Gordon said.

"You have my word that I will tell the President only the truth. I must contact them soon."

He was also told the decisions of the UN Secretary-General, the U.S. President and NASA. We also explained to him the repairs being done to the shuttle and soon to the space station. I noticed that he took in every word that we spoke. I knew he would tell his President what we said.

"Paul, please take our friend here to use the Comm. Devices. I nudged Paul's wall, 'Monitor his thoughts. He is not to speak to anyone but the Russian President. Find out if he can be held to his word and be trusted.' I said and thought.

Paul nodded his head taking the Russian with him from the stateroom.

"That was great! I never saw him so quiet and, what's the word, repentant. He was caught with his pants down around his ankles.

I have a feeling this will be one hell of a learning experience, and the greatest adventure of a lifetime. And I owe it all to you folks.

If you will allow me to leave, I have to brief the others and besides I'm starved." The Admiral said as he hurried out of the stateroom with Eve in tow.

"I have to admit that you, Arlene, have changed for the better. I am very proud of what you have accomplished since the change. We all make mistakes and I proved that point, which you and Gordon remedied. I felt hurt at first that my authority was countermanded on that matter. Now I see your purpose and agree with you both unequivocally. My long dead sister-in-law would have been proud to see her heirs show their reasoning skills," my father stated with a tear in his eye.

"Oh my Lord!" I heard Amanda and my mother say in shock together.

"I don't believe we heard that! Tommy, are you mellowing? Is middle age getting to you? I think I need a drink." Amanda said facetiously as she got up and hugged my father.

It was the annunciator again to catch our attention with Paul and Alexei walking in.

"Alexei welcome back." I said looking at a very sad man.

"I have just had that talk. After what was said I don't know if I should tell you."

"Excuse me", Paul said. "If you think the Admiral got reamed Alexei got the whole enema bag. The President of Russia thinks that we are tricks of the Americans. I heard the distrust in the President's voice. He stated that Alexei was to remain with us and to keep a watchful eye on our activities. He was told to remain with the Admiral as his Aide he would see to it through the United Nations Secretary General."

"Alexei, you are certainly welcome to remain with us. But you will be under the Admiral's command. We know that you have obligations and ties to the Rodina." Gordon said.

When Gordon said the Russian word for motherland we saw the sparkle of life come back into Alexei's eyes. The Motherland was the heart and soul of every Russian.

"But the KGB and FSK? They will harm those close to me, my family. They can and will be ruthless in those type of matters to get what they want, information."

"When we said we would share our knowledge and technology we meant for the planet as a whole. It is not for a select few but for all mankind." I said.

"I can only thank you for our people of Russia that have suffered so much for so long. The President will be another matter."

"Let us handle him. You have to help the Admiral and us. Your jobs will be very important to protect and save the planet." Amanda said as she placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Yes, yes I see. Oh thank you, ever so much. But I do warn you to beware all the politicians, they cannot be trusted."

"Yes our friend we know that. Paul, take Alexei to the Admiral and have him briefed by him, please." I said as Paul took Alexei to the Admiral's Stateroom.

"Well another hurdle has been placed in front of us. The distrust of all those governments has to be defeated somehow, someway," Amanda said.

"I think that we will have to do as we discussed previously. We have lived through and seen much worse then this." Mother said.

We all agreed with her, as we talked further of what was to happen soon.

 

Chapter twenty-seven:

 

The past few days have been productive and the bitching never louder to say the least. I found out that Gordon's father, Amanda's husband and my father-in-law, is the chief engineer for the entire Armada not just this ship as I thought before.

When he was told what we had planned for the Earth shuttle he couldn't wait to tackle the assignment. When he was told about the space station he volunteered to go and check it out. When he returned to check on the work of his workers they had made major modifications to the Earth shuttle. He said the shuttle interior looked similar to the Scout Ships. The propulsion systems could launch the ship without the need of booster rockets. He was very leery to give that amount of technology to anyone. It was finally Amanda that told him to be quiet and just do the necessary work.

We sent a repair crew over to the Space Station while we took our guests for a short cruise of the Solar System. An pre-arraigned command was given to the Armada to show themselves as we came closer to the other ships. We all saw the amazement on their faces. We even took them to several of the other Mother Ships in one of our Heavy Cruisers. When they calculated our strength they seemed jubilant. Each of them had said that they had only dreamed of going as deep into the solar system as they went into with us. They felt as if they were true Astronauts explorers. Little did these people know of what adventures might lay in their futures or ours.

Our doctors checked each of the guests and immunized them for just about everything. Each member was given a complete physical correcting any genetic abnormality. We had decided to make this procedure available to the people of Earth also.

We outfitted the Shuttle Crew with new clothing as the smell was getting to all those that came into close proximity to them. Okay so they reeked! Someone had neglected to instruct them on how to use our showers or heads.

 

Our launch time window was getting very close. Our parents would take care of Lynn in our absence as they pointed out there was always a danger of her being hurt. That was grandparent's language for we want to spoil our granddaughter.

We had decided to take six Scout Ships as escort to ours as a precaution with another six to escort the shuttle ferry. Our mothers trained the shuttle crew as to the use of our flight suits, which included our survival utility belts and QDD's. We had even sent some of the suits to the space station for their use as well as packing extras into the shuttle for NASA. Their Christmas was coming early this year!

When not entertaining our guests Gordon and I played with Lynn and so to speak with each other. We also had the opportunity to visit with others of the crew in the various recreation centers and the Mess Decks where some or most of the crew ate and Carmen was at home cooking for everyone. Formalities were lost aboard the ships, as we all became closer and a working cohesive unit functioning as one.

Zero Hour had arrived for us. The Scout Crews and the Cargo Shuttle Ferry Crew had been briefed. We each checked each other over in the Flight Bay making sure that our suits functioned, as they should.

 

We said our good-byes to our new friends with hugs and tears as they were helped into the ferry shuttle. Gordon's father, Daniel went with them to make sure that the NASA engineers understood the equipment they were getting. We all silently watched as the ferry launched with it's escort following.

We made our way to our Scout Ship giving our mothers, my father, and of course Lynn our good-byes. I cried as I went onboard which I was entitled to do.

We strapped Alexei and Jake into their couches and let their helmets do their work. They were both instructed on how to use their thoughts to control them.

This was my first diplomatic ride in this type of ship; no this was my first ride ever in this type of ship. I was honored when the flight leader asked Gordon and me to take control until we reached the Earth's atmosphere then the normal crew would take over.

This crew had done this type of trip many times and knew of the dangers that we faced from incoming slower passenger jet aircraft to military jets and of course their missiles.

We lay down on our couches putting on our helmets. Without warning a cocoon engulfed my body, I almost panicked but then realized that this was a safety measure that the passenger shuttle did not use.

'Computer, system checks' I thought once my skin felt the electrodes.

'Pilot, systems are all functioning within normal parameters.'

'Computer, view, three hundred and sixty degrees at five nautical miles at launch. Maintain flight safety rules, seven scouts, six on escort.'

'Pilot, confirmed, we are center and guide.'

'Computer, launch, maintain communications with Mother One.'

"Pilot, confirmed. Launching.'

I saw the other ships and our scout rise and turn going slowly toward the open space. My heart leaped in anticipation to the thrill of flying this craft.

'Computer, remove all stealth from all craft. Allow sensor readings. Identify craft and flight as Diplomatic Emissary One to sensors. Allow Earth style communications on NASA flight frequency.'

'Pilot, by voice or thought?'

"Computer, by voice.'

'Pilot, they answer.'

'Computer, activate sound and my voice.'

'Pilot, activated.'

I at once heard the radio traffic to NASA from the Space Station. My thoughts were being transposed to words by the ship computer. "NASA this is Emissary One."

"We have you Emissary One. Read you five by five this channel."

"NASA, please notify all Air Traffic Control Centers both military and civilian to please clear our flight path."

"It has been done. Your chief engineer says good luck."

"Thank you NASA. Emissary One Out."

'Computer, cease voice communication, monitor. Your captain is your pilot.'

'Computer, forward view.'

'Forward view on.'

I watched on the view as we approached and entered the Earth's atmosphere. The darkness of space gave way to light, and the blue of the Earth's sky. It was magnificent as we descended.

'Computer, link with Paul and Eve, voice please."

'Linked'

"Paul, Eve?"

"We are here, Your Highness." Eve said.

"We will be the last ship down. Have the security teams secure the area for us. Make sure they keep their helmets on. Visors are to darkened and do work with the authorities that will be there. No weapons unless fired upon. Is that understood? These people will be scared. The population will be scared!"

"The teams are ready and they do know their orders. We will work with the authorities before your arrival, but they will listen to us also." Paul said.

"Thank you, see you in the Big Apple."

'Computer, pilot, allow the escorting Scout Ships to proceed independently.'

'Your Highness, it has been done.'

I watched our progress as we came lower and lower. Soon three of the other ships would leave us to deploy our security at the landing site. Those ships would return and the three with us would do the same.

"Your Highness, we have a visitor. Civilian aircraft in distress."

"I see them."

"Pilot, can we help?"

"They just ditched into the sea. There appears to be no break up of the plane. I think we can stabilize them. More help is coming for them. At least they haven't tried to get out of the plane."

'Computer, notify the United States Coast Guard and Navy, we will assist.'

'It is done.'

"Pilot, recall all scouts to assist. Flank speed, Sir."

"It has been done, Your Highness"

"We can bubble them by using our protective shields and expanding them. Their help won't arrive for another two hours. I know we can get them to JFK Airport in five minutes, flying slow with that baggage below us."

"Do it then! They may have injuries on that plane."

I saw that we had the jet in tow, beneath us. We didn’t need all the craft to help us but it was a safety precaution. I sincerely hoped that we were not blamed for this incident. That might put a wrench into the diplomatic works. Then I remembered that life was so much more important.

As our pilot said we arrived at JFK Airport with the jet in tow. The pilots gently laid the jet down near the crash crews that were called out to help those people. It felt good to me that we could help someone that needed help.

Again three of our Scouts left us as we flew out to sea hovering above the wind swept waves of the Atlantic Ocean. As quickly as the first group had left us they returned and regrouped on us with the other three scouts leaving us.

It had been decided previously that when our six escorts returned we would then go to our destination after paying our respects to the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor.

'Our scouts have returned, Your Highness'

'Proceeded as planned, captain'

I watched in the viewer of my mind as we flew along the shoreline straight to the mouth of the Hudson River. I saw the shoreline of New Jersey and New York as we flew deeper along the river until we came to the Great Grand Lady that has greeted so many to these shores of the United States. I remembered the poem engraved on the plaque at her base that was fitting to all those that come to these shores.

 

The New Colossus

By Emma Lazarus

 

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,

With conquering limbs astride from land to land;

Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand

A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame

Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name

Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand

Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command

The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

"Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she

With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,

Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,

The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,

I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

We hovered in a perfect, tight formation in front of her at one hundred yards to the amazement of the tourists visiting this great symbol. All of the ships in unison dipped their noses, wagged their stubby wings, alighting the skins of the ships to flash the Red, White and Blue, in salute to her before flying off. This tribute was not to impress, but to pay homage to the symbol of hope and freedom of all immigrants.

Within seconds we had traversed the island of Manhattan, the dreaded nightmare of every automobile driver on the planet Earth. I thought briefly of what those drivers thought if they saw our ships. I think there will be many bartenders hearing the story of drunks seeing funny looking aircraft that made no noise. I had to laugh to myself on those thoughts.

We had made our destination to the park area, just north and adjacent to the United Nations building. The scene I saw was chaos! There were police, news media and military everywhere with our people holding everyone back. I noticed too that no weapons were visible. That gave me relief from some of the nervousness I had accumulated on our journey.

We hovered three feet above the Statue of Peace then moved back several feet away to get a mark. I saw two of our security team come forward giving the hand sign to lower the anti-grav unit.

We all quickly gave the order for the release of the cocoons and stood up. I was slightly amazed that Alexei and Jake had managed to release themselves so quickly.

'Computer, link with those that stand, voice"

"It is done"

"Does everyone hear me?"

"I do." said Jake.

"As I." said Alexei

"Remember do not take those helmets off until we or I tell you to do so." I said

"Are we ready to go?" Eve said as she came into the flight deck area.

"I guess or at least ready as we'll ever be." I said

We walked to the anti-grav pad, all of us standing in the middle of it as it silently lowered us to the to the ground. I allowed the visor area to be dark. I saw perfectly without the computer enhancement to my brain.

What we saw was a zoo! Police, suits, fire, medical, military personnel were the predominance of the people that stood around. Next were the news crews. I saw very few civilians present but there were some in attendance. I was standing still with our group while camera flashes erupted. Our own security had us encircled as the police held people back.

It seemed that there was finally movement toward us. I guess we were an imposing site to those gathered on this historic day. Finally several people in suits came forward with outstretched hands.

"What the hell is that all about?" Gordon said while we all laughed.

"I know they are worried we do not speak English." Alexei said.

"Alexei in your case you don't." Jake said producing more laughter with Alexei laughing the loudest.

"Do you want to see this guy freak out? Watch what I do." I said mischievously.

"You're not going to do what I think you're going to do, are you?" Gordon said laughing.

"Computer, amplify, roboticize voice."

As the man in the suit came closer to us, I spoke saying in a very mechanical voice, "Take us to you leaders, please."

I swear that man must have left a brown trail as he turned and waved us to follow him. I wasn't sure but I think he shook his legs as he walked toward the UN headquarters. At least there wasn't a trail of brown.

"Computer, normal voice, conversation level."

I heard the laughing all the way to the front doors from our group as well as others. I did this not out of arrogance but to take the tension out of the air.

"You do know that stunt you did was recorded and sent to the Armada. Don't you?" Gordon said.

"No I didn't." I said.

"And mom was probably laughing the hardest along with the rest of the Armada."

"Paul, take four of our people inside and find out where we are going. Eve contact the Scouts and tell them to Bubble the building when we enter it." Gordon said.

Paul and four of our people ran toward the building entrance causing many people to move out of the way. I thought I heard the cries of those that had their toes stepped on. Well at least there were medical personnel available and no one was seriously hurt.

"The place is packed and they're in the General Assembly hall waiting." Paul said through our comm. units.

"We are entering the building now Paul, Thanks." I said.

We entered the foyer of the main building again to the bright lights and flash strobes of cameras going off. We just kept following our friend going through corridors that has seen very little public traffic.

We finally arrived to a set of doors that our guide held open. We left the security team at those doors.

"We'll wait for Paul and Eve. Then go in together." I said.

"We're on the other side, go ahead out there, Your Highnesses."

We entered into the General Assembly room, when they saw us; there was a noticeable silence.

"Computer, override all translations, translate my voice to all the delegates. Take control of all Earth public radio and television frequencies on my command. Translate as well."

"Ready."

 

"Please remove your helmets. Computer now!" I said

As my helmet reformed itself I was walking toward the podium that was in front of our audience.

I looked about the sea of delegates noticing that almost all of the world's major leaders were in attendance. Every delegate was present.

I adjusted the crown I wore after taking the helmet off and putting it on the floor near the podium.

"Members, delegate countries of the General Assembly, Madam Secretary-General, leaders of the superpower nations. We thank you all for coming on such short notice.

As you can all see, we are human just as you all are. There is nothing to fear from us.

I am Queen Arlene and at my side is my husband, King Gordon. Behind us are your ambassadorial representatives' Admiral Jake Filipowski of the U. S. Navy, and Sub-Captain Alexei Abramovich of the Republic of Russia behind them are our Armada security chiefs.

As I had stated previously, the Earth will soon be in a fight for its very life. We are a peaceful race but we will fight back if threatened. Our stance is one of non-interference with any species, culture or society. In this situation we too are threatened, as for many decades we have lived and worked among you as equals in every corner of this planet. We have kept ourselves hidden so as to not provoke hatred, envy or possible dissection in any of your science laboratories." I said pausing.

 

When that was said there was an uproar of disbelief. I asked for quiet until I was finished speaking. We would answer any and all questions.

"Our homeworld was destroyed by debris when our sun exploded. The homeworld scientists, we think, had made a miscalculation when they said that our sun was dying.

There are over two point five million of us that live amongst you. We came to Earth onboard one hundred craft that we call Mother Ships. What was seen outside and is waiting for us are called Scout Ships. Do not let that name fool you as their weapons are formidable and beyond any nations technical capabilities on this planet. Now those ships are based in fifties onboard our Heavy Cruisers as well as the Mother Ships. Now, the Mother Ships carry four Heavy Cruisers as well as numerous other Shuttle and Cargo Craft. Each of those ships is capable of travel far beyond the speed of light and through what you call wormholes.

In our travels our people encountered a species that call themselves the Krea'ckh. They are beyond arrogant in nature. They destroy planets for their natural resources, which includes water, which is sacred to us."

I backed away from the podium to allow Gordon to step in. when I turned I saw a holographic image of all our spacecraft. I saw a small generator in Eve's hand.

I nudged her, 'What's this Show and Tell?'

'It was Gordon and Amanda's idea.’

I just smiled.

Gordon took the podium as I stepped away saying, "As my wife, the Queen, has said this planet is in dire danger that was why we have made ourselves visible to the world. Currently the Krea'ckh vessel is under surveillance by one of our Heavy Cruisers and a squadron of her Scouts.

Our purpose is to help you as you have unknowingly helped us by giving us once again a homeworld.

We are prepared to share our technology and spacecraft to protect this planet, which we now call home.

We are sorry that we took your defenses away from you but we had to show you proof we are genuine. We had to show they were but mere toys to us.

Now I would like to introduce Admiral Filipowski, and Sub-Captain Abramovich to speak to you. Please gentlemen.

As the two men stepped forward, Gordon came to my side and took my hand.

Those two men told the delegates and the world, what wonders they had seen and the technology that was in use by us. The most important items they stressed were the people they had met and made friends with. They both stressed that the danger we stated was real as they saw the intelligence that was gathered about the Krea'ckh. They saw a planet disemboweled for its resources.

When they had finished I went forward to the podium.

"We will step out of this room while you, the representatives of this planet make a decision or to formulate questions for us. We thank you all for your time and for allowing us to speak to you."

I bent over to retrieve my helmet when the auditorium burst out into applause mixed together with cheers from the delegates we had spoken to.

I rose to my full height and smiled to all the delegates and walked to Gordon taking his hand into mine. We then walked over to Alexei and Jake.

"Jake, Alexei, you need to stay here. We're just stepping out so they can talk. Which they all will." I said.

"Didn't you forget something?" Gordon said

"No, not that I recall."

"The transmission."

"Oh my, I did forget. Computer, cease transmission, resume normal activities." I said.

"I have one question for you both. Will that damn computer hear you in the Head?" Jake asked.

"Jake that computer will even hear you fluctuating in your sleep or making love to your wife." Gordon said with a smile.

"Just what I need a friggin Peeping Tom computer. If you don't mind what do you two do to get privacy?"

"Easy, just tell it."

"Shit. I never thought of that."

 

We walked away just shaking our heads in disbelief, while Paul and Eve laughed all the way out the doors we came in from.

 

Chapter twenty-eight:

 

We joined our security people out in the hallway where they have been waiting patiently for us. They greeted and congratulated us warmly. We all had time to talk with each other. We noticed that there seemed to be no argument coming from the room we had left. I hoped that it was a good sign.

Jake came to the door where we stood saying, "They would like for you to return. They all seem to be in agreement with each other, a friggin' miracle has happened."

Gordon and I were escorted by Jake and closely followed by Eve and Paul. Not a whisper was said nor a word. Each pair of eyes followed us as we walked toward the podium with Jake taking the microphone into his hand. I sensed no fear only relief from these people.

"Thank you for being so patient while I brought our guests back. I will now ask The Secretary-General to state any concerns or questions you have."

A petite oriental woman of undeterminable age and beauty stood and walked to the podium taking the microphone from Jake.

"Thank you, Admiral," The woman said in very precise English.

"To be quite honest with you, we did not know what to expect to hear from you. Some of our members said that you have ulterior motives and are distrustful. Others have said that they believe all you have said and believe your motives are to help.

The Admiral and Commander have told us of your conversations that you have had with them and the reluctance in coming forward. We now see your views and why you have had much fear.

Our planet grows smaller each day with the many advances that are made. We still have intolerance based on many things including culture, society, religion, politics, disabilities and sexual or sex preference.

You have joined this planet as one, this day. That was the one thing that I thought would or could never happen in my lifetime. We have peace where there has not been peace for many years, perhaps centuries. We now have hope where there has been no hope. We have tolerance where there has been none.

We have learned from you that this planet is small and the universe is infinitesimal. We have learned we are not alone and we had better learn quickly to work as one and unite.

The danger you spoke of is absolute. We do wish to offer you our sign of friendship and welcome. Welcome citizens of the planet Earth!"

The Secretary-General offered her hand to each of us as the applause exploded in the room.

I didn't know if I should cry or not as I took this women's hand into mine. This was a proud moment for us and the people that came in the Armada and that have settled here on this planet that is called Earth.

For several hours we answered the questions of those that attended. I had even asked that those, which accompanied us, answer some of the questions. Questions were asked to the pilots and crews of the Scout Ships that brought us here.

The press corps that was approved to witness the proceedings had asked to join in with more questions that we all answered, even to their satisfaction.

There had been one question asked by an Associated Press reporter that none of us could answer, "Will the people of Earth ever see any of the Mother Ships in our skies?"

"Computer, link, voice, council members" I said loudly for all to hear.

"Done"

"Council members, a question has been asked that we have not discussed before. That question is, ‘Will the people of…………………’"

"My apologies, Your Highness, we have all heard what the reporter has asked. This is High Elder Amanda. Eve, please activate the generator. I hope you can all see my image.

We have, meaning of the councils, discussed this at length and have come to the conclusion of, No, you will never see a Mother Ship in your skies unless you of the planet request it to come and visit.

Their immense size or your planetary gravity is not a concern. They do have the ability to land anywhere. We also have no intentions of disrupting your world's ecobalance. These ships were and are still our homes, a sanctuary of sorts for many as well as the florae, fauna and creatures from our homeworld. We are not being secretive or deceitful but they retain much of our homeworld and heritage.

Soon our ships will be having guests from your planet we shall gladly offer them any and all hospitality we can offer.

One thing further, my queen and king, please look at the generator. Your daughter, the princess, is waiting for your return."

Amanda was in front of my immediate family as she held our daughter, asleep as usual, but with a smile. The assemblage whispered with the vigorous motions of nodding heads. Gordon took my hand into his holding it tightly.

"Blessings to you all!" They all said.

"Computer, cease transmission" Gordon said as I wiped tears from my eyes.

"Done"

"As you have seen we have a daughter that needs her mother and father. And, yes, our daughter was born on this very planet as my queen and I were. You will find many of us were born here. This is our homeworld too, as we never knew the homeworld of our parents.

"We thank all of you for the courtesy you have shown to us. More scientific and further information and data has been given to Madam Secretary-General, which is in the process of being converted for each of you, which includes the press corps.

"We apologize to this host country of the United Nations, the United States, to the city and people of New York City if we have inconvenienced anyone but this was a matter of importance for the world and not just any one country. This has nothing to do with world economics. This is a question of survival! Again our intention was not to disrupt this great city or to slight its hospitality." Gordon said.

Once again the delegates stood to applaud us as we walked off the stage area walking down the aisle with many of the delegates following us.

"Captain, cease Bubble, prepare for all of our arrival, one hour." Gordon said.

"It has been done, we await, Your Highness"

I happened to have heard a worker say, "Damn, dey speak in da air, den dey get da answer. Better den da cell phone! I gotta get me one of dem things." I had to look at the ground as I giggled inside and smiled.

 

We all stood together with the Secretary-General in the main lobby shaking the hands of many, many of the delegates. The Presidents of Russia and The United States together with many others agreed with what we said. They would all speak before their respective politicians in two days time or as soon as their politicians could convene in session.

I happen to glance over at the Madam Secretary she was holding one of the portable computers pads we used on the ship. It was the size of a legal pad of paper but could do so much more than any computer or system on this planet.

She must have seen my reaction saying, "We thank you for these gifts and the information they contain. These made this meeting more plausible to the assemblage, before you arrived. It swayed many of the dissenters in their opinions and their votes."

I looked at Gordon, then at Eve. I saw that look of, who me I didn't do anything, written all over her face. I tapped mentally at her wall, 'You did well! We all should have thought of the idea. Remind me to give you a raise.' We both smiled knowingly at each other.

"Madam Secretary, please enjoy the gift. It may help you and all the delegates as you learn how to use it and unlock all of its secrets. We are sorry that we must say goodbye but we must. Our daughter is waiting so…………"

"I understand completely, Your Highness. If you don't mind most of us will come and walk with you," she said as she took my arm and Gordon's arm.

We spoke of several things as we walked toward our awaiting craft. The amassed crowds were still gathered with even more people visible. I didn't see any of the UFO crazies or their signs so I thought that all was well and I began to relax a bit more. People were a trifle loud trying to get our attention, so we all waved and smiled pretty.

Our ship was waiting where we had left it. It was even more magnificent now that we were going back to Mother One. With each step I took I relaxed more until we arrived at the lowered anti-grav pad. We shook the hands of those close by and climbed onto the pad waving to the people.

Once inside everyone went to our assigned couches, lay down and let the magic begin as the helmet reshaped and the cocoon emerged.

"Ship, voice transmission please."

"Pilot, could you notify the escorts to assemble over the river and then salute those people down there. Then, maximum speed back to Mother One."

"Sure, Your Highness. We'll even give them a light and air show all the way back to Mother One."

I wasn't sure what he meant but I had the distinct notion that my stomach would never be the same.

 

"Jake, Alexei."

"Yes, Your Highness."

"Have you two ever been test pilots?"

"Somewhat, mostly acrobatics and fighters, why?" Jake said.

"I think we are going to be part of an Air Show."

"Oh Shit, They wouldn't!"

"I think I said it was okay."

"Can we get out, please. We saw the entrance and this show before. I don't even want to think of the finale."

"Pilot, console thy brethren please."

"Admiral, Commander Just relax and watch the show. These will all be simple maneuvers that we teach in our flight school."

"Say, did I ever tell you, you can fly these ships manually? We teach our cadets how to do ballet with these. These Scouts are so maneuverable you can make them stand on their noses." The pilot said in glee.

It was then I realized why we had the cocoons. Either this pilot had a set of brass balls or he just wanted us to sweat.

"Pilot, maintain safety controls in what you do please."

"Always, we have all of our passengers to think of, Your Highness."

"Start your show, pilot."

All seven ships backed slowly to be over the East River. Once over the river they all dipped their noses in salute to those on the ground. Then each ship changed the color of their skins to reds, greens, and blues. We remained silver for us being the center of the flight formation. They began to rotate the colors to give a strobe lighting effect when watched from the ground, which then turned into a rainbow of the light spectrum. The ships stopped at the color red that pulsed in intensity to a pink to a very deep red. Without warning the ships accelerated without a sound straight up the blue-sky atmosphere of Earth, to the blackness of space and eventually to our destination, Mother One's flight deck and hanger area.

 

Chapter twenty-nine:

 

We arrived at the Mother Ship in what had seemed like minutes. When the ship settled on her skids everyone was ready to leave the ship we thanked them all for what they did for us before leaving the hatchway.

The hanger bay was strangely silent as we walked. A crewmember came through the hatch from the main passageway directly toward us. After a slight bow and a chest salute she said, "Your Majesties, Ambassadors please follow me."

We followed the young woman through many passageways until I realized we were near the mess decks. Then I remembered I hadn't eaten for a while. My stomach grumbled to let me know too, and very loudly.

We walked into the mess decks but the lighting was off until we walked in, when the lighting came on and people from the crew yelling "Congratulations, Welcome Back."

I was taken aback a little I was not expecting this type of celebration but I was gracious and smiling. My main concern was food, any food prepared by Carmen. And there was a feast prepared!

"Thank you everyone we will speak but now I see food and I am very hungry." I said as they all cheered.

Gordon and I were the first to fill our plates with these delicacies from the seas of Earth.

"Senora, Senor welcome back. We saw you did well with those politicos. We made all of this for a party. Enjoy, enjoy it all."

I placed my plate down and gave Carmen a hug, which she returned gladly and with emotion. Oh yes this was beginning to feel and be another home for me, no for us. We had everything but at the same time we may lose everything including our lives.

All of us sat at a table barely speaking to ourselves, let alone anyone else. Excuse the expression we were too busy stuffing our faces. My hunger was satisfied as I pushed away my plate. I saw the looks of the men, which was contentment or possibly gas, I really couldn't tell.

 

"Oh there you are. I brought someone that missed her mommy very much." My sister Irene said as she handed Lynn to me. I fussed over Lynn as I took her into my arms.

"Oh I missed her so much and everyone else. It was strange down there. I felt as if I had never been there before and yet we were born on Earth."

"I know the feeling, sis, I think we all do. Look we'll talk later, Al finally came up and …………"

"Don't even say it, go. He might be a pig but you married him." I said interrupting her.

"I didn't know there were children up……… On the ships." Jake said.

"Sure Jake, there are many children on board. They have structured schooling, their families, even nature and wildlife."

"Yeah Alexei met some before. Something the size of a bear but with longer hair, wanted to mate with him, I think." Jake said

"That was a yahlic I believe. They are very tame and as you said similar to the bears on Earth. They are attracted by smell, you have to admit you two did give off some very potent odors before." Gordon said as I laughed.

"No one told us the showers were voice activated. I stood under that nozzle for twenty minutes waiting for water." Jake said defensively.

"We apologize for that incident. It's been a long time since we've had guests on the ship. When you get settled, someone will come to your staterooms to instruct you on everything." Gordon said.

"That would be great, make sure she's about 35 and built well, please."

"Me too, I want the same." Alexei said smiling.

I thought to myself that things never change. How at one time I was like these two macho men that sat at our table except that I was far worse than they were. My thoughts were to change them but then how was I going to explain it to Gordon. He would know I did it. That seemed to be the least of my worries. What about the UN and their bosses? If they found out could that be considered an open act of aggression? I guess it could. I settled in, watching and holding our daughter, gently giggling to myself at the thoughts of those men being on the bottom for a change with a man.

"Hi, sweetheart. We're glad your back." A voice said softly from behind me. Turning I saw my mother and father.

Hello son, welcome back Jake, Alexei." father said.

"All of you did well we are very proud of you. You did what we knew you could do it. All the ships are having parties as we speak to celebrate this day. I just hope we don't have to go into hiding or go looking for another planet after this." father said.

"For the reason of telling the truth I feel we did the right thing, father. We could not abandon those on that planet. Many of us have ties to it not just by birth, but family as you know." Gordon said.

"I forgot that your people have lived on the planet for decades." Jake said.

"True and we have been watchful but there have been instances where our ships have been fired upon or some of our people almost caught trying to get home or return to the ships for their duty routines here in space. We each spend several months out of the year up here.

In order to do that many of us own their own businesses and hire many of the crews so as not to draw attention to themselves when they are gone, or they use accumulated vacation time. We have people that isolate themselves by being farmers to give us landing sites and ocean going ships to provide food." Mother said.

"Many bring the families here and many can't, as some spouses and children don't know. Many spouses think that their loved ones are fishing or visiting relatives. Again we are back to the fear and deception factors. I dare to say there will still be more deception for fear of seeing their relationships crumble." Father said.

"Then we have the children. We have found out that our genes are dominant in most cases. How do you tell your spouse from earth that there is noting wrong with their children even though they hear voices in their heads, or never get most of the childhood diseases. There are other things I dare to say you aren't ready to hear yet." Mother said.

"I see the points you're making but now we hope this will be a new era in cooperation, relationships and understanding. That's all we can hope to achieve." Jake said as Alexei nodded in agreement.

As we talked one of our security team members came to the table after seeing us.

"Ambassadors, the UN Secretary-General is trying to contact you. She has the Presidents of Russia and the United States with her. She said it was important." The man said.

As they made their apologies and left. We apologized to my parents and much of the crew to leave for our staterooms. We loved them all but we wanted some family time for just us.

"Computer, privacy mode, emergencies only." I said as we entered.

"Done"

I went to Lynn's room and laid her on her bed. She was still sleeping as I gave her a kiss and left her to her dreams.

I was tired as I went to our bedroom but a relaxing bath was more important to me. I undressed quickly, finding something to dry and cover myself and headed to the bath.

It was grand as the crystal clear waters of the pool hit my skin. I felt the tensions I had, just dissipate into the steam.

"Computer, music, earth, volume soft, Moody Blues, Fleetwood Mac, YES, Styx, Cream."

"Done. Beginning."

The strains of the song The Chain by Fleetwood Mac filled the air.

 

"Computer, lighting three, soft tones."

The lighting lowered in intensity with a rose colored hue.

"Done"

I was even more relaxed after I had unbraided my hair. I just closed my eyes to the sounds of the music which also worked it's magic.

I tensed as I felt someone in the pool with me. I opened my eyes to see Gordon besides me.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to alarm you dear. I saw you in here and thought you would like some company." He said as he placed his arm around my shoulders.

"This is what I needed after the past several days." I said as I leaned and laid my head onto him.

"This is nice, isn't it?"

"At least we can spend some time with each other and our baby. Right now all I want to do is to stay right here with you." I said feeling my energy levels increase to more normal levels.

It was that way for the next several hours for us until the cries of Lynn broke over the sounds of the music. I quickly exited the water, dried off and covered myself running to her room.

Looking down at her she stopped her crying to a whimper. I picked her up and checked her as she nuzzled into my shoulder while we walked back to the bath and Gordon.

I told him what happened when I picked up Lynn. I was concerned due to amount of time we would be gone. The only other option was to take her with us for the meetings but not into the meetings. He agreed with my observation and would speak to our parents what we were about to do.

We, as a family exited the waters of our bath with me taking Lynn to the nursery and Gordon going to our bedroom. Lynn was asleep as I laid her down in the crib making her little noises. I bent over and kissed her. I was not too happy about the decision we made but it was logical.

I was relaxed further as I entered our bed without a stitch on. Gordon swept me into his arms almost immediately drawing me close to him. This was a good feeling, a warm feeling and a safe feeling. We were one with each other, something I thought that would never happen. Not a word was spoken or a thought shared as we held each other for so long a time period.

 

Chapter thirty:

 

Gordon and I must have fallen asleep in each other's arms. We were awakened to what amount to was the ringing of an incessant alarm clock.

"Computer, what is that ringing sound?"

"A visitor that claims urgency"

"Are they at the door?"

"Yes"

"Very well have them wait."

I woke up Gordon who was still soundly sleeping by gently kissing him repeatedly. Without warning he managed to roll me with him on top of me as a result.

"I warned you what would happen if you did that to me." Gordon said as he kissed me.

"Wait! Wait! There's someone at the door."

"Sure there is."

"Computer, is there someone waiting at our door?"

"Yes, are you in need of assistance?"

"No, and thank you."

"See I told you." I said starting to laugh.

"This isn't finished. You do know that." Gordon said as he rolled off of me smiling.

I was off the bed in a flash. I threw on a robe I had on earlier and ran to the lounge.

"Computer, open door."

The door opened to allow Jake, Daniel and Eve inside.

"Oh we're sorry to have disturbed you. We'll leave and comeback later." Jake said.

"No that's alright. We've had enough rest." I said graciously just as Gordon came out in his robe.

"We can go, Ah……sorry to have disturbed you." Jake said.

"Will you stop and sit down. Now what's the problem?"

"Well, First the meetings at Washington and the Kremlin are confirmed. You will be addressing Congress and the Russian Senate after you speak to the respective Presidents. Now your dad needs to speak." Jake said.

"We were in one of our cargo holds pulling equipment spares out of storage for NASA. We found another two hundred and fifty scouts that were stored away in our bulkhead storage that had been never used. I called the other ships and had their chief engineers go to the same locations. They too found the same ships stored in areas just as ours were.

"Gordon, perhaps you remember me saying that our hanger bays always looked empty even with all the all the Shuttles on board. Well now we know they've been in storage.

"We also found the documentation inside three ships we had never seen before. The technology is from the home world and that time frame. As the years went by, we continually upgraded our systems. These are the original systems with no modifications.

"When I looked at the propulsion engineering, I saw many differences that looked to be design modifications along with the power systems. Theoretically they're faster than even the scouts by at least several times over with a crew of twenty and probably double the amount of passengers. I think it could also be used as an assault craft for troops. The armaments are significant that if used will not drain the power or the reserves when fired to leave the ships vulnerable to an attack. Their firepower exceeds our scouts and possibly our Cruisers. Looking it over I saw the lack for nothing in creature comforts. According to the manifest, that was never entered into our computers it is listed as a Victory Class Destroyer.

Lastly we found what was named the Councilor Class. This ship is a bit smaller than the Scout and has the speed and weapons of the scout. It was designed for the Captains we think for intership use but………"

"Hey a Captains Gig! All naval ships have a boat for the captain's use." Jake said.

"Okay Jake calm down. Now getting back to what I was disclosing, but it could defend itself admirably.

Lastly when we left the home world our scientists made substantial breakthroughs in solid and organic matter transceivers. All the kinks had been worked out of them and were supposed to be installed on the ships, with us to test and certify them. We never found them until now that is. Again not listed."

"Dad, what your saying is, we now have an additional twenty-five thousand ships, two hundred destroyers and one hundred……………Captain's Gigs. Are there any more surprises?" Gordon said.

"Yes and I hope not. I have everyone checking and looking on all the ships……"

"That's one hundred and fifty thousand personnel for the scouts, four thousand personnel for the destroyers and four hundred for the captain's gigs. That totals to one hundred and fifty four thousand and four hundred personnel or four hundred and sixty-four thousand and four hundred people for three sets of flight crews." I said.

"I told Amanda and your parents, all they said was to tell you and rolled their eyes." Daniel said

"Gee thanks mother and dad." I said silently and barely audible.

"What do you propose we do, father?" I asked.

"As we speak those ships are being prepped and are in the hangers. All the flight mechanics are upgrading the systems and modifying our scouts and cruisers with the revisions in their power plants and weapon systems. These ships were made at the last minute. They aren't prototypes."

"Okay, but what do we do for the crews? I know we can get more volunteers from the Mother Ships but……………"

"Why not from Earth? This is gonna be our fight too, y'know." Jake said.

"Computer, Captains please."

"Enroute."

"Thank you."

"Gordon can Jerome and the other flight instructors take on this many students?"

"He's out in the hanger. Ask him." Daniel answered for Gordon.

"Eve, please get Jerome for me." I said.

"Jake, how in the hell are we going to propose this to the General Assembly?"

"Well, very carefully. We are talking about people that have had combat flight training preferably in jets? Possibly test pilots? Space Shuttle people? Oh Shit. NASA will be pissed! Anyway, I think there will be many pilots out of work after your appearance." Jake said.

Eve walked into the stateroom with our lead flight instructor and chief Pilot. Along also were my parents. We told them what Jake had proposed and the reasons behind those reasons. They seemed to concur.

"I think that simulator time will be a problem but can be handled. Flight time won't be a problem with all those extra ships. Our crews are ready or as ready as they will ever be. I know that many of our pilots will help in the training of the new cadet volunteers. We'll need support personnel too for the maintenance." Jerome said.

"Jerome can all the pilots be cross trained for the other ships too?" my father asked.

"They all already are. Oh you meant the new cadets, sure. That's part of the training isn't it, Your Majesties?"

"Sure is, now this has to be proposed to the UN, I daresay we will have many volunteers. Medical has to be involved too for the physicals and screenings. I would venture to say one pilot out of one hundred will make the grade." Gordon said.

"I know the medical personnel will be very busy. Mother, can you break the news to them of our plans?" I asked.

"We had a feeling you called us because of those ships. We stopped and saw the Docs. They said bring them on. They were bored," my father said.

"Well that's another problem down. In a way I'm glad those craft were found. I was concerned that more would have to be made which could mean a strain on our resources in the Armada and on Earth. But replacements and components will have to be made eventually. Will the Earth help in that manner?" I said.

"Considering what is at stake I'm sure they will do more than you may think." Jake said.

"Jerome what about the amount of time to train and get the pilots ready?"

"If they are like Jake and they all are not going to be like him, offhand nine to twelve Earth month's. We'll try a faster solution and approach to our normal training methods." Jerome said.

"Perhaps the Krea'ckh will find other planets to engorge themselves with or maybe their sensors will give them false readings to give us more time to prepare. I want this all ready to be presented to the Earth UN.

"Father, I would like a ship prepared for maximum safety for our next meeting. As far as those matter transceivers, set them up, test them, certify them, but they will be for cargo only. I want the flight time for the pilots and crews.

"Jerome you will also teach the new pilots tactics, maintenance of the ships and manual control. I would like battle simulations to be done with their training.

"Once trained we will have loses but I would like to keep those losses to a minimum or none at all"

The meeting had ended with everyone leaving us to ourselves. Gordon already knew what to do and had a wicked smile on his face. I was forcibly picked up by Gordon and carried to the bedroom with a smile on my face and a body full of loving.

 

Chapter thirty-one:

 

I awoke after much needed rest. Gordon was still fast asleep. We have had over twenty-four hours of privacy. We became a family once again, just Gordon, Lynn and me and no one else came to bother us for any reason.

I seemed to have spoken too soon, as the comm. pad came to life in our bedroom, that I answered.

"Your Highnesses, you have a lift off in three hours for your meetings on Earth. The Armada Engineer requests your presence on the flight deck." A voice said.

"Thank you."

Gordon and I had already decided to take Lynn with us on this trip over the objections of the grandparents. I had decided and had asked Carmen if she wanted to take care of Lynn onboard the Scout Ship, she gladly accepted. While we were in the meetings Lynn would be well taken care of by Carmen, allowing the crew to maintain their vessel.

Walking into Lynn's room he told me he had heard the panel and had gotten Lynn ready and fed. I noticed that he was wet so I knew he took her into the bath with him. I gave him a kiss and ran to the shower to wake up for our day.

My thoughts focused on many things as I showered and got dressed but more so on my father-in-law wanting me on the flight deck. Why? Well I thought, I'll soon find out. The one thing I was certain of is that there wasn't a major problem or he would have called us himself.

We were dressed, ate a light breakfast and headed to the flight deck with Gordon carrying Lynn. In a matter of minutes we arrived noticing that the hanger area and flight deck area in activity with workers going in and out of various ships. In the center of the flight deck was a ship neither of us had ever seen the likes of. It was much larger than the Scouts were, perhaps six times larger in just length, and larger in height and width. I did notice it was big but not as big as the Passenger or Cargo Shuttles. It had the same general lines of the Scout Ships of a teardrop. The skin shone in its silver coloring to a mirror brightness. I noticed that there was a crest of some type on the nose as we walked looking at her.

I noticed that the crest had two bottlenose dolphins on each side of a very large clamshell that was open. Sitting inside of the clamshell was a woman with my face on her body wearing the crown that Gordon had given me as a gift. Behind the raised shell was a man holding a trident with Gordon's face there and his crown.

I thought that was very nice of these people to do what they had done.

"Beautiful likeness of you two. Such magnificent workmanship too." I heard from behind me. I turned to see Daniel, my father-in-law.

"That's just the way we pulled it out of the storage hold." He said.

"How……how could that be father?" I asked.

"Come inside, there's more." He said.

Going up the gangway we saw the interior was indeed larger than the scouts were. We followed him to what could be called a stateroom although a smaller version of the one we occupied.

"I think you had better sit down over there." he said.

After we sat he started saying, "While we were preparing the ship we found the crest as it was and the stateroom, just as you have seen, together with a nursery for a infant. On the table in front of you is a CompPad that was activated when I touched it with a letter addressed to you in the Homeworld language, which I did not read I might add.

I'll leave you so you can read it privately."

"No father, we have no secrets among family. Please stay."

I picked up the computer and began to read the translation out loud instead of listening to the voice that dictated it.

 

My Dearest Daughter and Heir to the throne;

If you are reading this I am dead, so are our people and our planet. I have had many dreams that have predicted the catastrophe and have confided with Iris, my sister, to the events I have seen in my dreams.

I have also seen your face and your husband's face along with my grandchildren's faces. I was the one that had your images placed on this craft. This craft is a gift from your mother and father. Yes, he does know what I have predicted. However, our scientists say we will not have the cataclysm for a very long time. This I highly doubt! Iris has done well in following my wishes and I thank her, Amanda, Daniel and Thomas, which are the names they go by in your time.

You must remain patient at all times. As your people show their loyalty, so you must show them you are loyal to them also. You will have trying times and must be strong and persevere. Your decisions must be final and just! You and your husband must remain strong for all.

As I have said if this ship was found there will be others found too. Your enemy is strong but not as strong as you are. You will rally those that are hesitant to yours and their cause.

To my son-in-law, help your wife. Love her and counsel her. Be there for your children and above all your people. All the added materials that have or are about to be found as I said are for your usage in your period of time. That is why it was not on the ship's cargo and spares manifest. There is more to be discovered, so much more.

My children heed this advice: be patient, loving and caring in each chore that you do.

We wish we could be with you physically but cannot. We shall always be in your hearts and minds to guide and love you.

 

With all my love dearest ones

 

Your Mother, Aimaila, Queen of Kriac of the planet Urh'natau.

I couldn't help but to cry saying, "Damn it! She knew! Why didn't they save themselves?"

"She knew, we all know that now, her people came first and so did the Armada. With the Armada there was a chance to save everyone. Unfortunately no one knew the exact dates that the homeworld would be destroyed or exactly how. That letter proved to me that she had a tremendous love for us all," Daniel said as he came to comfort me.

"Come along and see what the queen gave to you," he said.

We went into the adjoining compartment where the nursery was. The queen was quite knowledgeable as to what a baby might need and like. Mostly everything was the same, as you would find on Earth. There were a few items I wasn't sure of. I decided to leave them alone until I spoke to someone about them.

The quarters weren't elegant but were functional in their design. I thought at once that I would not have the slightest hesitation in taking Lynn in this craft.

"Father, has the pilot and crew been assigned yet" I asked.

"Why yes, they have. Jerome volunteered as did several others as soon as the saw the resemblance's of you both etched into the ship's skin. They call it the "Royal Barge," after Jake said an Admiral's boat was called the Admiral's Barge."

"Father, could we call her the Urh'natau after the homeworld or the Queen Aimai, after she that gave us so much."

"Queen Aimai, huh? I like that. It fits as the protector for all of us." Gordon said while he placed the sleeping Lynn in the nursery crib.

"That was what we all called her as her nick name. I think it would be fitting." Daniel said.

"Good, it's settled then. Also please share this with the Armada." I said as I handed him the CompPad.

"I'll have it etched right now before you depart. By the way, Jerome has fully tested the "Aimai" and certified it for flight. Are you absolutely sure about this communiqué? I mean it is very personal."

I slowly nodded my head yes.

"I'll tell the flight crew and security personnel we're ready. Same as before six scouts, right?" father said with his smile.

"Yes dad with Eve, Carmen, Jake, Alexei and Paul on here." Gordon said.

"Carmen?" he said, questioningly.

"Carmen was asked to take care of Lynn so that all of you could try to decipher the queen's message and get those other craft ready."

"That's logical, besides I think Carmen likes to fly and we all trust her with Lynn." Father said as he walked out the door after hugging and kissing us both.

We were left alone in the craft. There was no sign that this ship was old. All the electronic systems and some of the weapons systems had been upgraded to bring it up to date with our present technology.

As we walked about Carmen, Eve, and Paul came aboard. I could see the amazement in their eyes, as each of them walked around and walked with us.

"Where is the baby, Senora?"

"Asleep in the nursery." I said.

"There is a nursery?" Carmen said.

"Yes, courtesy of a long deceased and loving relative. I have to warn you that there are a few things in there that I don't know what they are." I said.

"I'll take Carmen and we'll find the nursery and those gadgets. Maybe I know what they are."

"Thanks, Eve. I was going to ask you about them later. The stateroom is over that way," I said.

I had to admit that this craft was spacious although not as big as our Cruisers or Shuttles. I hoped that we wouldn't have any problems with it in finding a parking place to put it into. You all know that good parking spaces are hard to find and when you do find a place to park, it's either a fire hydrant or a meter maid waiting with a parking ticket book in hand.

 

As Gordon and I explored the craft the volunteer crew stated to come aboard, following close behind was Jake, Alexei and Jerome. The crew didn’t leave anything to chance as they each checked their own equipment, then checking with the Destroyer’s computer and then the Mother Ship’s computer.

"We’ll be taking off soon, Your Majesties. We’re missing one crew member, our engineer." Jerome said.

"Who, Jerome?"

"Your father-in-law volunteered for this flight over the objections of the council. He pointed out as the Armada Chief Engineer it was his responsibility to be present on the maiden flight of this craft. You know I have to agree with him but I think he just wants to have some time away from Amanda."

"Yes, my mother can be a pain but she means well. I think he enjoys the peace up here away from her." Gordon said laughing.

I had to agree with the both of these men. Amanda is a very strong willed woman, assertive I think is the term. It is understandable, as she and the council had to keep all the people in the Armada hopeful that they would find a homeworld for the all that would accept them.

That time had come for us. We have been welcomed formally and officially by the UN with a resolution approved by the members. We had been notified by a message that came from NASA while Gordon and I spent some time with each other and Lynn.

Jerome had given the order to check the ship and the systems as a final check for preparation for lift off. Since there were extra couches on the flight deck the four of us remained.

Daniel arrived and seemed to be in a joyous frame of mind as he prepared his systems for launch. You could see that this is what he enjoyed. I assumed he enjoyed the challenges of repairing and making things work.

I could see the anxiousness on the faces of the crew. They were like children that just opened a present, a new toy on Christmas. I could feel the excitement building in each and every one of them as they prepared for launch at their stations.

As we watched, Daniel was in a conversation with Jerome, which they both seemed to want to be kept confidential. We saw them both nodding their heads in agreement and went back to work.

The gangway of the ship was raised and the hatch was sealed. I heard the familiar humming of the craft, feeling and watching it raise and turn toward the blackness of space.

(continued)

 

 

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© 2002 by Lorraine B. All Rights Reserved. These documents (including, without limitation, all articles, text, images, logos, compilation design) may printed for personal use only. No portion of these documents may be stored electronically, distributed electronically, or otherwise made available without express written consent of the copyright holder.