Amazon: Regenesis

by Itinerant

edited by Amelia R.

 

Amazon – Part 5: CHARM SCHOOL (continued)

 

Biographer's Note: This is Nicole's story. It covers those events and people she finds notable in her life and chooses to share. If you have problems with it, take it up with her. I'm just a glorified stenographer.

 

 

Thursday, January 11, 2001

Doubletree Fitness Room

5:15AM

 

"Good Morning, Keith."

"Mmmph! Morning, Nicole."

He had been working hard this morning. The sweat on his face and chest already had begun to soak his shirt. She looked at the setting for the weight machine and cocked an eyebrow; it was set 50 pounds higher than the previous day.

"I see you've pushed the weight up this morning."

Keith finished the set and just let the weights drop. The higher setting had taken every bit of energy he had. "Yeah," he gasped, "I wanted to see if I could push a bit harder. Man, that was work."

She nodded in agreement. "You look like you almost overdid it today." He actually looked severely overstressed, but a slender woman who was using a 100 pound heavier weight setting would not win friends by mentioning things like that.

She set her machine as before, quickly running through her routine as Keith recovered.

"Are you OK?" she asked as she completed the first part of her workout. His face was quite flushed, almost looking like a case of heat stroke.

"I think so. That was harder than I expected."

After resetting the machine to a lower weight, she stood and looked closely at Keith. He was not as flushed as before, but still looked more red than he should after the long recovery time. She gently, but firmly, made him lie back on the bench. "Lie down here for a minute."

Keith's face showed surprise at the strength in the slender arms. "I still can't get over how strong you are."

Nicole shook her head a little as she kept her eye on the man. "As I said, I've been training long enough to be much stronger than I look." She used the inside of her wrist to check his forehead temperature. "You seem to be cooling off and recovering, finally. Just lie still for a bit longer and you should be fine." A smile graced her face.

Keith asked, "Aren't you going to do your running?"

"Skipping one day won't hurt; I want to make sure you're back on your feet. Let me get you some water."

He smiled uncertainly; the attention of a lovely woman was nice, but there was something about this one that confused him.

 

8:45AM

Etiquette School

 

Kate was bouncing—there was no other word to describe it. She bounced into the room to take her seat. The excitement of the previous evening was still charging her nerves. "Morning!"

Nicole smiled and shook her head, noticing some looks and smirks from others in the room. She turned toward Kate and, in a voice just audible to her companion, said, "Keep bouncing like that and you'll have them thinking you, or we, had a really good night."

"Nicole!" The youngster just barely kept the volume down as she yelped in shock at the comment.

The redhead snickered, leaned over, and whispered, "You were drawing a lot of attention to the two of us. Now, shhhh! Class is starting." Nicole smirked as the frustrated brunette was forced to squelch her response until the break.

 

 

The remainder of the day was an extended session of one-upmanship as Kate tried to get revenge for Nicole's remark and Nicole countered to retain her points lead. By the end of the class, the two agreed to call it a draw.

That evening at dinner, Kate asked about Nicole's plans for the weekend.

"I don't have any, really. You have first call on my time, but if you have plans...." She shrugged. "I'll find a way to keep occupied."

"Do you want to spend the weekend with me at my parent's place? There's plenty of room, and I'd like to have time to just hang with you and get some questions asked and answered."

"If it's OK with your folks, I'm game."

"Let me give them a call and I'll make sure." Kate pulled her cell phone out and dialed. "Hi, Mom! ... Yeah, it's been an interesting week." She glared at her companion as she chuckled at the comment. "Anyway, I was calling to ask if it's OK to bring a friend home for the weekend... Not that kind of friend! ... Mom! ... No, she's in the seminars with me and came in from out of town. I thought she might like someone to hang with over the weekend... So, it's OK? ... Great, we'll see you tomorrow night then... Love you, too! Bye!" She ended the call and put the phone back in her purse. "No problem! She'll have the guest bedroom all set up for you when we get there. Is that OK?"

Nicole nodded. "That's perfect. I really appreciate you and your family putting yourselves out like this."

The brunette shrugged. "It's no big deal. Besides," she dropped her voice to ensure she wasn't overheard, "I want them to meet you, even if they can't know about the Amazons."

"So you want to leave right after the seminar is done tomorrow?"

"I think so. It will probably take two or three hours to get there. We're done around 3:00 PM, so that should get us in at a reasonable time. Do you want me to drive?"

"Sure, as long as we swing by my motel before we hit the road."

"Great. Oh, don't forget to pack for clubbing. There's a place my friends and I hang out, and I'd like you to meet them, too."

"Errrr. That might be a problem. You're talking to Queen Geek here. My idea of a good night out was a LAN Party. I have some casual clothes, but I don't know how they'll fit in."

Kate gave the redhead a look. "You're kidding, right?"

Nicole shook her head.

"O... OK. I guess we take you on a shopping trip Saturday."

A cold chill raced up Nicole's spine. ~This won't end well,~ she thought to herself. Those traces of Tom that were left rebelled at the idea of shopping for women's clothing.

 

Friday, January 12, 2001

Doubletree Fitness Room

5:10AM

 

She had awakened before the alarm this morning, the nervousness from the planned weekend ensuring a restless night. On the plus side, it meant she'd had time to pack for the weekend already. On the minus side, she was feeling the lack of rest. ~Ah, well. Perhaps the exercises will help.~

The room was empty as she began the now-familiar ritual; a quick warm-up, then the weight machine. She thought about increasing the weight, but after yesterday it seemed a poor choice. Keith might not survive.

 

5:20AM

The sound of the door opening drew Nicole's attention. Keith walked in, looking much better than the previous day.

"'Morning, Keith. You look like you feel better."

"Good morning, Nicole. I do feel much better." He moved to a Nautilus and began setting it up, but with weight settings only slightly above his normal workout level. "You still busy for the weekend?"

She paused for a moment and returned a sad smile as she replied, "Sorry. I'm spending the weekend on orientation of a new employee in L.A."

"Ah, well. I have to fly out early next Saturday; can we make a date for Thursday?"

The red-haired woman grinned at the persistence of the young man. "You've been good company in the mornings, but I have to pass up the opportunity. I still have my responsibilities for my company; I only have another week with her and need to spend my time making sure she's up to speed."

Keith's face fell; his whole demeanor deflated like a punctured balloon.

Nicole felt sorry for him, having been in precisely the same situation. She also knew that he'd recover from the mild bruising of his ego.

 

8:50AM

Etiquette School

 

Nicole sat at the table as she sipped on her coffee. She hadn't dated much as Tom; this morning's encounter had pointed out that in time she would need to face dating as a woman. She stared off into space as she contemplated yet another challenge in her life.

Kate came in ebullient, but not bouncing. "Morning!" She sat and looked at Nicole. "OK. What's up?"

"*mumble*"

"Nicole, I don't speak that language."

The redhead sat back in her chair. "I had a guy ask me out for a date next Thursday."

Kate blinked. "Yesterday you were telling me about Queen Geek, and today you're telling me you have a date. Right. So how did this all happen anyway?" The incredulity in her voice turned to glee as she pondered the chance for payback, or even pay-ahead.

"I didn't say I had a date. I said he asked. I told him no since I had work related responsibilities."

"What responsibilities are those?" Kate gave her a puzzled look.

"You are, Kate."

"Humph! I'd let you off the hook for one night. Was he cute?" A wicked gleam in Kate's eye warned Nicole of the inquisition to come.

Nicole leaned forward and thumped her forehead on the table as the instructor entered and the last day of the seminar began.

 

3:10PM PST

Doubletree Suites

 

"OK, Kate," Nicole said as she closed the trunk of Kate's sturdy, white Saturn. "I'm loaded, and we're ready to go. I brought the best options I have for 'club' wear."

"I'll take a look when we get home. You travel light, only one medium suitcase and a hanging bag. I have two larger suitcases plus a bag. How do you do it?"

The reply came with a grin. "Practice, dear, practice."

"Humph!" Kate started her car, and the two women began the weekend's excursion.

 

 

The trip was starting well; traffic on I-5 was relatively light heading in-town, and Nicole found herself sightseeing as Kate navigated the highway. Memories of earlier trips, many taken before her companion was born, overlaid her thoughts with a nagging sadness—in particular that last, never-to-be-forgotten trip just last November. She bit her lower lip, trying to keep from completely losing control of her emotions. ~Hormones? Wiring? I miss Tom's emotional control, damn it!~

"What's wrong?"

Nicole glanced over at the driver, seeing the concern in her new friend's face. "Sorry, Kate. I'm just... struggling with some memories. I was here this past November, and a lot that happened after that is emotionally painful."

"I knew something was bugging you. Would it help to talk about it?"

Nicole took a few moments to consider her reply. "It might help me, but I'm afraid it'll freak you out again. It makes the weirdness of the Amazons look normal, but I found out it was one of the reasons you were chosen."

Kate didn't reply for a mile or so. "After what's happened already? You have something even more off the wall?"

"I'm afraid so. I already told you I was chosen for this job in late November, right?"

Kate nodded, keeping her eyes on traffic.

"Well, what I didn't tell you is who I was before I accepted this position."

From Mission Viejo to Anaheim, Nicole told Kate the whole story: her life as Tom; growing up; being married; being found by the scepter; the visit from Michael and Artemis; her time at the cabin. At that point Kate gave a watery laugh. Nicole looked over to see tear tracks on her face; she handed a tissue to Kate and waited for her to regain control.

Kate finally spoke. "So, you're a 50-something guy who was turned into a woman? And you gave up your whole life and marriage for this?" She waved a hand in Nicole's direction.

Nicole's eyes stung with tears. "Not exactly," she said softly. "I'm a woman now, right down to my DNA and the wiring between the ears. All that's left of the 50-something man is the memories. And yes, I gave up everything I had and loved for this." She paused before continuing, "Artemis tried to teach me what she could, but there is so much I still need to learn to cope, and I'm still struggling to keep my head above water. If you need time to think and want to change your mind about this weekend, I'll understand, but Michael told me to be up-front with you."

Kate pulled over to the side of the highway, stopped the car, and turned to face the redhead. Her irritation was clear on her face. "Do you really think I'm that shallow? Nicole, all week there have been times you've said or done things that confused me. All you've done is help me understand why those things happened. I'm still your friend and sister Amazon; if I can, I'll help you keep learning what you need to know. I made a commitment and took a vow to become an Amazon, to make myself a part of your family." Kate poked at Nicole's shoulder in emphasis. "I won't bail out now just because a weird situation got a little weirder. I pledged myself to your service, and I keep my promises!"

Nicole broke down at this point; the relief that surged through her at the assertion of loyalty overwhelmed her shaky emotional controls. She vented the stress and fear as Kate rubbed her back. Finally she recovered and wiped her eyes and blew her nose. She smiled gratefully at her companion. "Thanks, Kate. I don't think you fully understand how much you and your support mean to me right now. All this change in my life came so fast, and there's so much to learn. I'm happy with who and what I am, but I miss my family and friends. The loneliness just gets to me sometimes."

"Are you good to go now?" Kate asked, reaching over and squeezing Nicole's hand.

"Yes. Let's get rolling. I'm looking forward to meeting your family. And thanks, sis."

 

5:30PM

Tanner Home, West Hollywood, CA

 

It was a not-so-minor miracle. Kate had followed I-5 through downtown and then taken the Hollywood Freeway to Santa Monica Boulevard, as it was the closest exit to home. Despite the time of day, they'd actually kept moving and arrived not long after sunset.

The remainder of the drive had been quiet as Nicole lost herself in memory, and Kate tried to process another batch of weirdness from life.

They finally stopped at an upscale southern California home. A two-story, Spanish-style house on a small—for the East Coast—lot, it still had a nice view of the Santa Monica Mountains. The top of the range had just lost the last rays of the setting sun as the car pulled into the driveway. The fading sun still provided enough light to reveal the large, covered, second-story balcony to the right of the arched doorway. A light hung over the center of the arch and lit the stoop with its golden-tinted light.

As Kate turned the car off, Nicole reached over and squeezed her hand as she said, "Thank you."

The smile was returned and the two got out and carted their luggage to the door. Kate dug in her purse for a key, but was interrupted by the door opening. A small, brown-haired woman stood in the opening to greet them. "Kate! Welcome home! And this is the friend you mentioned?"

"Yeah! Mom, I'd like you to meet my friend, Nicole. Nicole, this is my mom."

Nicole and Kate stepped in and set the luggage on the hardwood floor. Nicole stepped forward, extending her hand. "I'm pleased to meet you, Mrs. Tanner. I'm Nicole Harrison, and I do appreciate your hospitality."

The door opened into a small entryway, and another door into what looked like a living area.

"It's no trouble at all, Nicole. We have lots of room, and we're always glad to have one of Kate's friends over. Now that you're here, I'm afraid we may have a small change in plans. I thought the guest room was free, but I forgot we're using it for storage while we do some remodeling. There are two beds in Kate's room, so if it's OK with you to share a room we'll put you in there."

Nicole looked at Kate and shrugged. "I don't have a problem. Kate?"

"No problem here."

"Good, then let's get you two girls upstairs and settled. Did you stop for something to eat on your way?" Mrs. Tanner asked as the three made their way through the living room to the stairway.

"No, since the traffic was moving, we wanted to take advantage of it and just get here. We usually didn't eat until 6 or so anyway," Kate informed her mother as they made their way up the stairs.

"Your father will be here about 6, and I had dinner planned for about 6:30. There's plenty to eat, so why don't you join us?"

"Sounds great, Mom. What can we do to help?"

"There isn't anything just now, but after you get settled in your room I could use help getting the table set."

"OK, we'll be down in fifteen minutes or so." Kate stopped at the door to her room and opened it. "That'll give us time to at least get Nicole oriented a little."

"Good idea. I'll be in the kitchen. See you both downstairs." Kate's mom nodded at the two as she headed back out of the room.

Nicole looked around the room. It wasn't large, perhaps ten by fourteen feet, with just enough room for two twin beds, a chest with a lamp between them, and a largish dresser. A closet door was on the wall opposite the beds. The decor was generally Mission style, in keeping with the architecture of the house.

"Why don't you put your stuff on the dresser, Nicole," Kate suggested. "I have plenty of room in the closet for anything you need to hang up, too. We can change into something casual while we're settling in."

Kate's unpacking consisted largely of tossing dirty laundry in a pile on the floor and putting everything else away. She changed into a pair of well-worn jeans and an equally worn t-shirt.

Nicole hesitated for a moment. This was the first time she'd changed with another person in the room. She was just another woman now, and Kate was treating her that way, so she'd best follow the lead. She undressed and hung the outfit she'd worn in the closet, along with the extra she'd brought, then changed into a jeans and blouse combo she'd brought. A flash of orange on the shelf caught her eye as she closed the door. She noticed Kate was barefoot and decided to skip shoes herself; she might as well enjoy the casual feeling.

"You don't need to dress up, Nicole. Grubs will do just fine for knocking around the house tonight," Kate admonished her companion as she looked Nicole over.

Nicole gave her a wry smile and replied, "Have you forgotten that everything I own is only two months old? This is as close to grubs as I have."

Kate went wide-eyed for a moment and then left the room shaking her head; Nicole trailed along behind.

The two made their way downstairs to the kitchen, where Kate was drafted into helping finish with cooking. The light stone countertop and white painted brick made the area light and cheery. Mrs. Tanner pointed out where dishes and silverware were, and Nicole worked at setting the table. With three working together, it took only a few minutes to have everything ready. It was shortly after six when Kate's father walked in to find the three women chatting in the kitchen.

"Good evening, ladies!" Mr. Tanner called out as he came in. He was slightly taller than Kate, with the same dark hair. "Hello, dear," he said as he embraced his wife. After a quick hug, he turned to Kate with another hug, "Welcome home, Tigger! The classes are going OK?"

Nicole's eyebrows rose at the nickname. ~Tigger?!~

Kate winced at the nickname and then nodded.

Mr. Tanner smiled and turned to Nicole. "And you are...." He stopped speaking and just stood, looking at her.

"Greg? What's wrong?" Mrs. Tanner asked after a moment.

Nicole was trying to keep a puzzled look on her face. The last name, Tanner, had not triggered a warning. Seeing the man in person, she realized he was Tom's liaison to the UCLA Medical Center on his last trip here.

He shook his head and, still looking intently at the redhead, replied, "I'm sorry, but you bear a striking resemblance to someone I worked with not long ago. Are you related at all to a Tom Edwards—perhaps a niece or daughter?"

"I'm sorry," she replied, choosing her words carefully, "I don't have any relatives with that name."

Kate listened carefully as her friend skated carefully around a sensitive topic. ~Poor Nicole!~

Mr. Tanner continued, "It's amazing how much you favor him anyway. He was out here helping with a database system just last November. We got word that he'd passed away shortly after his last trip home. I was sorry to hear it; he was one of the best software architects, and best men, I've ever known."

Nicole clamped down on her emotions as she gently probed for more information. "Since you asked if I was his daughter, I assume he was married?"

"Yes," Mr. Tanner replied, "he was married for about 30 years, as I recall. Our department sent a gift to his widow. We hear she's doing fairly well; Tom seems to have provided enough for her to stay in their old house. Word has it that she's doing surprisingly well for such a sudden loss."

Nicole said a silent word of thanks. Beth was OK and provided for as promised.

"Just amazing!" Mr. Tanner took one last look at Nicole. "Where are my manners? I'm sorry, Ms? Miss?"

Nicole smiled broadly. "Either one is fine. Nicole Harrison is my name, Mr. Tanner, and I'm very pleased to meet you." ~Again, even if you don't know it.~

 

 

The remainder of the evening was far less eventful. Kate and Nicole talked about the seminar, and Nicole was gently quizzed about her background.

"I have a BSEE and an MSCS. I know it isn't a typical woman thing, but computers and I just seem to get along," she said to her hosts. She chuckled. "It's almost like I was born knowing how to make those things sit up and talk."

Kate snorted and choked on the water she was sipping.

The elder Tanners glanced at their sputtering daughter before Mr. Tanner continued the conversation. "So now that you have your Masters, what are your plans?"

"I'm working for a firm called Wing Ground Sensor Systems. We send teams into the field to survey areas for underground resources like oil and gas. Sometimes we're also called in to check for archaeological sites before construction of new buildings. I'm going to be working on one of the field teams and, before I do that, I need training so I can protect myself and my team. I'll spend a tour of duty in the Marines to get that training. It's an unusual requirement, but it works. They've never lost a team member in the field."

"I see. I understand that you'll be in the seminars next week with Kate?"

"Yes, she'll have to put up with me for another week." Nicole grinned. "She seems to be doing OK at that so far."

Nicole in turn found the Tanners were lifelong Californians, born and raised in the L.A. area. Mr. Tanner, as she knew, was working at the UCLA Medical Center in Records Management. Mrs. Tanner was a specialist in Ancient History, currently working as a telecommuting researcher for writers at Warner Brothers.

Mrs. Tanner remarked, "It's frustrating to see a real-life story gutted to make it 'relevant.' The real story is often far more powerful than what appears on screen."

"What kind of stories are you working on now, Mom?" Kate cocked her head in question.

"Oh, someone is doing work on a script for a movie about Alexander the Great. It's a fascinating story, but they're pushing stories that aren't there in the real world. That's very frustrating to a historian like me."

The conversation veered toward safer topics after that, settling on the relative merits of the UCLA and Syracuse basketball teams, lest Mr. Tanner be left floating helplessly on a sea of 'girl-talk.'

 

 

Nicole was shooed out of the kitchen when she tried to help with cleanup. "We don't let guests do that," she was told. She made her way to the family room and sat on a sofa on the opposite side of the fireplace from the one where Mr. Tanner sat. The two chatted about computers and databases while waiting for the others. Nicole found herself fighting to avoid asking questions or making comments indicating more knowledge of the UCLA system than she should have as a new graduate.

Finally, Kate and her mother finished in the kitchen and settled in the living room. Kate joined Nicole on the sofa, while her mother took her place next to Mr. Tanner.

"So, Nicole," began Mrs. Tanner, "where do you and your family live?"

Nicole winced before she replied, "I live and work near Washington, DC. My father passed away about 10 years ago, and my mother died about 5 years ago. They lived in the Syracuse area." She paused for a moment. "I don't have any other family."

"Oh! I'm sorry, dear! You don't even have cousins or anyone?" Mrs. Tanner's voice was full of sympathy.

"No, both my parents were only children. My dad died suddenly, and my mom just couldn't handle living without him. She hung in for my sake, but she once said it was like living without her heart. I still miss them."

Kate scooted over and hugged her friend, who smiled and patted the comforting hand.

Nicole continued, "It's OK, Mrs. Tanner. I knew, without a doubt, that they both loved me. And I have two people who are like parents to me now. Michael and Artemis have taken me under their wing and helped me when I needed it. And now I have Kate too, it seems." She smiled and looked at the brunette sitting beside her. "I always wanted a little sister. Kate and I have 'clicked' since we met, and I'm grateful for her." She frowned a bit. "Unless she's teasing me about my fashion sense." She gently bumped her friend with a shoulder.

"Hey! Someone has to get you educated. A heavy burden," she gave an exaggerated sigh and put a hand on her chest, "I guess I'll have to bear."

Nicole missed the momentary look of concern that crossed Mrs. Tanner's face.

 

 

It wasn't terribly late when everyone retired, as the elder Tanners were early risers. The girls retreated to Kate's room to chat as they got ready for bed. Nicole sat cross-legged on one bed brushing her hair out, and Kate was flopped on her bed as they talked.

"Nicole, before I forget to ask, did you really know my dad before... you know?"

Nicole stopped brushing her hair and nodded. "Yes, I did. I met him in March when we started working on a fully computerized records system for the UCLA medical center. I probably spent half my time with your dad working out just how the system needed to operate." She smiled. "He's one of the good guys, Kate, and very sharp. You should be thankful for him. I know I had a good time while I was here."

Kate nodded. "I love both my folks dearly, but it was weird the way he reacted to you. I can't imagine what it was like for you."

With a wry smile, Nicole said, "It really surprised me. When I met you, and you told me your name, it didn't occur to me that you'd be related to anyone I knew from my work out here. It was all I could do to keep looking confused and not panicked."

Kate chuckled. "Back to important things for our weekend. I like some of the outfits you have, Nicole, but I still want to get you something that will fit in better at the club."

"I think I'll want to do some jewelry shopping, too. What I have is a bit much for clubbing."

"Mind if I take a look?"

"Feel free, but remember I warned you. Everything is in my suitcase in the small black bag."

Kate got up and found the bag. "My GOD, this stuff must be worth a FORTUNE!" She pulled out one or two pieces for a good look before gently putting them back for fear of damaging something worth more than her car.

"Meet the crown jewels. Artemis wanted me to have something suitable for formal wear. That's why tomorrow I want to get a necklace, some nice earrings, and maybe a bracelet or two for more normal wear."

Kate just nodded. "Oh yeah! You'd get mugged wearing this stuff. The stores open about 10, so we can sleep in a little."

Nicole grinned. "Is there a good place to take a run around here?"

"Yes. Why?"

"Because, my dear sister Amazon, we need to start working on your physical conditioning. We'll keep it down to two or three miles tomorrow... Tigger!"

"NICOLE!"

Quiet giggling was abruptly cut off by the soft THWOP of pillow impact.

 

7:30AM PST

Saturday, January 13, 2001

Tanner Home, West Hollywood, CA

A panting Kate staggered into the kitchen, trailing a visibly smirking Nicole. Mrs. Tanner was sipping on a cup of coffee and greeted them.

"Good morning, girls." She looked at her daughter with puzzlement. "What have you two been up to?"

Nicole jumped in before Kate could make a comment about the Marquise de Sade. "I normally go for a run in the morning, so today I dragged Kate along. She did very well, and I hope she'll stick with it. I want her healthy and around for a long time."

"I think I hate you," came without heat from Kate as she recovered enough to speak.

Nicole stepped over, put her hands on Kate's shoulders, and put her forehead on Kate's. "You are important to me, and I will do whatever I must to make sure you stick around. If that means I have to draft your mom into helping keep you healthy, I will."

"You make it really hard to be mad at you, did you know that?"

"I try." An unrepentant grin perched on Nicole's face.

"Ahem!" Kate's mother interrupted. "What are you two planning for the day?"

Kate straightened up and answered. "Nicole and I are going to the mall to get outfits for going out tonight. Other than that, not much."

"Do you mind some company and a couple of extra stops? I have some shopping I need to do, and we need to stop for groceries before tonight."

"Girls' day out?" Kate asked.

"If it's OK with you two."

The arrangements were agreed to, including lunch at the Hard Rock Café, once the Tanners discovered it was new to their guest.

Kate wandered off to take a shower after her run, leaving Nicole with Mrs. Tanner. As she left, she remarked to her friend, "When you change after your shower, wear a blouse and skirt. That will make it quicker to change while we're shopping."

"Yes, Mom!" Nicole replied as Kate left the room.

"Nicole," the older woman began as the shower started upstairs, "how do I put this? Is there anything I should know about your relationship with my daughter?" Her face and voice reflected a mother watching over a loved child, concerned about a new relationship she didn't understand.

For an instant the gray eyes that turned to her looked far too old for the face.

"What exactly do you mean?"

"Please understand, I'm only concerned for my daughter. It's unusual for her to meet someone and so quickly become close to them. It took her weeks at college to even start making friends with people she met there. It worries me that in less than three days she meets you and invites you home. You just don't ... feel like one of her typical friends."

"So you're concerned that something happened this past week and I'm taking advantage of Kate?"

"It does look that way, I'm afraid."

Nicole nodded. "I agree that it was sudden; I wasn't expecting anything like this to happen either." A smile appeared on her lips. "I even called Michael to ask him for advice. I've never had anyone quite like Kate around before."

Marie chuckled. "I can understand that; she is unique."

Nicole joined in with a gentle laugh. "How very true." Her face returned to a more serious look. "Mrs. Tanner, I don't really understand everything that's going on either, but I truly look at Kate as my little sister; she's become that important to me. I'm looking forward to her finding the right guy and having kids that I can spoil as 'Aunt Nicole.' You don't need to worry about my having odd designs on your daughter." A half smile was left as she finished; she felt, now, the uncertainty of the mother. "To tell you the truth, I'd be surprised and disappointed if you acted any other way. You love Kate and are worried about her."

Nicole thought for a moment before continuing. "I know, more than most people, how important family is. I'm not going to drag her away; she'll be staying right here when I leave. I want her to have a long and happy life with you, but I want her be a part of my life, too. If you are that worried about what she might do, talk to Kate about it. She loves you and will be honest with you."

Marie relaxed slightly; she would watch, but perhaps she didn't need to worry quite so much about this odd young woman.

 

Beverly Center Mall

The three women explored shop after shop as Kate sought the proper combination of style and color to outfit Nicole for the evening. In most of the stores the brunette examined the selections in a cursory fashion, mostly killing time as her mother did more serious shopping in her own styles. Only a few of the trendier stores merited a truly careful review, and in only one or two did the selections win a trial up against the redhead for color coordination. She knew in general what she was looking for, a style that showed off the long legs and slender figure of her new friend, with colors that did the tan and flame-red hair justice.

Finally at 'bebe' she found what she was looking for.

"That's not a skirt, that's a belt!" Nicole hissed at Kate as she took the white miniskirt from the rack.

Kate looked around. Her mother was in another section of the store, and there was no one in earshot as she spoke, "Look, sis, do you trust me?"

Nicole's face betrayed her uncertainty, so Kate continued in a lower tone, "Please, Nicole, trust me. You need help adjusting to who you are now, both the age you look and your beauty—I promised to help. Just try this outfit on; if you can truly tell me you don't look good in it, I'll find something else."

The redhead blushed pale pink at the miniskirt and nearly backless top. ~There's no way to wear a bra with this outfit!~ she thought as she just nodded as she took them and disappeared into the changing room.

She hung the outfit on a hook and then undressed to her panties. The white skirt slid up her long legs and took only a moment to adjust on her hips. The white top took a bit more work with the split sleeves and tie behind the neck. She slipped her flats back on and exited the room. It was time to face the mirror.

 

 

"Nope! I take it all back; you can't have it, sis." Kate shook her head in amusement at her hesitant friend. The top hugged the slim torso while the skirt showed the long, tanned legs to full advantage. "You look way too good to have around. Now slow turn so I can get a good look, then you get a look in the mirror." She whirled a finger in a 'turn-around' gesture.

Nicole followed the instruction and slowly twirled, managing to keep the skirt, or what there was of it, down. Kate nodded in approval and pointed to a set of mirrors.

Breathtaking; that was the only word that came to mind as the mirror revealed the effect of the outfit. The white top set off her tan and hair, while the skirt seemed to show legs up to her armpits. The cascade of hair obscured a comforting amount of exposed skin down her back. She knew it was a good look for her, even if it was way out of her comfort zone. It was revealing, but less immodest than she'd first thought.

"You win, little sis, it works better than I thought it could." Nicole smiled nervously at the brunette. "That doesn't mean I'm anywhere near comfortable with it."

"Just keep thinking about what you see in the mirror; this look was made for you. All we need now is shoes and jewelry for you and an outfit for me."

"And I pick up the tab for your stuff, too."

"But…. "

Nicole leaned toward her ear. "Consider it a royal command and don't argue."

Kate glared, then curtsied saying, "Yes, Your Majesty," followed by sticking her tongue out, which started the two giggling.

Kate's mother walked up at that point. "OK, girls, what are you up to now?" She took a good look at the tall redhead. "Nicole, that's a very good look for you!"

"Thank you, Mrs. Tanner; you can give your daughter the credit for it. She's the one that talked me into it. Now it's her turn to get something nice for tonight. Oh! Before I forget, does your family normally attend church?"

Mrs. Tanner was momentarily surprised as she replied, "Why, yes we do. Or at least we attend Mass at St. Ambrose. Are you Catholic?"

Nicole shook her head. "No, I was raised Presbyterian. I make it a habit to attend somewhere even if I'm away from home. Would there be a problem if I joined you?"

Mrs. Tanner smiled and replied, "You are more than welcome. We'd normally go to the eight o'clock Mass, but we can wait for the ten o'clock if you're out late."

Kate watched the conversation, wondering momentarily why Nicole was asking. She had never been too enthusiastic about religion and found the rituals boring. As her mother walked away, she asked Nicole about it.

"Nicole? If you're not Catholic, why do you want to attend Mass?"

"First of all, for me," Nicole pointed at herself, "this is a way of showing I'm thankful for the good things in my life; I can give back an hour or so each week. Secondly, I get to hear someone else's thinking on Bible passages I've read many times. They sometimes catch ideas that are new to me, and that keeps me from thinking I have all the right answers all the time."

"But why not go to a Presbyterian church?"

Nicole grinned. "Sometimes it's good to go outside your comfort zone. Besides, this is a part of your family life, and I want to know more about you, even if I don't feel entirely comfortable in the service."

Kate thought back to Nicole's comments about her call, and decided that perhaps a more serious attitude was in order. Amazons, goddesses, and Archangels; what was going to drop into her life next?

 

Tanner Home

Nicole started sorting out her paraphernalia for the evening. Her new outfit was laid carefully on the bed, with the lingerie selected to go with it. She'd taken a quick shower and stood in a T-shirt as she pondered the makeup selections. Kate had looked over the selections in Nicole's case the previous night and snorted.

"It looks like it's for an old lady."

Nicole couldn't suppress a chuckle. It was funny no matter which 'old lady' was referred to. She looked over the new selection and tried to analyze differences between new and old. ~More to learn. I'm just lucky it all goes on the same way.~

Kate came back from her shower, and the two began preparations for the evening.

 

7:30PM

The Key Club

West Hollywood, CA

 

~Earplugs! I should have brought earplugs!~ Nicole thought as she and Kate entered the lounge. The pounding beat from the local band was painfully loud to the sensitive hearing of both women—Nicole winced, and noticed Kate grimacing as well. Despite being an obviously upscale hangout, Kate and her friends met here on a regular basis to stay in touch after high school. As they walked in, Nicole noticed the reactions of males of all ages and sometimes their dates. Kate had talked her into comparatively short 2-inch-heeled mules; between the top, skirt, and shoes she felt herself completely on display. She just knew her face was glowing red as she felt the heels make her butt sway in just the way guys found irresistible and her breasts bounce in a slightly syncopated motion. She wanted to find a hole to crawl into.

Kate leaned toward the taller woman's ear and almost shouted, "I DON'T REMEMBER IT BEING THIS LOUD."

Nicole put her mouth closer to Kate's ear as she responded, "YOUR HEARING IS BETTER NOW—OR AT LEAST IT WAS BEFORE WE GOT HERE."

Kate nodded as she scanned the room, dragging her companion toward a table surrounded by three young men and two young women. "Hi, guys!" she called as they walked up during a lull in the music's volume.

"Guys, this is my new friend, Nicole. Nicole, the guys are Case and his girlfriend, Megan, Bob and Gail, and this is Alex," she released Nicole and sidled up to Alex, "who's mine!"

"Glad to meet you all," Nicole hollered as the band's noise level rose again.

Kate's friends nodded a greeting to the newcomer, then Case, Megan, Bob, and Gail left the table for the dance floor.

Nicole moved around to the side of the table closest to the wall, ending with Alex sandwiched between her and Kate. The noise level precluded easy conversation, so the three sat and watched and listened to the band.

During the next break between songs, Alex spoke up. "Can I get you two something to drink? Your usual, Kate?"

"Please! Nicole, would you like something?"

"Just a diet cola—Coke or Pepsi is fine."

"Just a soda? They do serve alcohol here if you want a beer, or something."

Nicole nodded in the direction of a table where a visibly intoxicated group sat. Their behavior was loud and increasingly obnoxious. "I like alcohol on occasion, but that kills my taste for it."

Alex nodded as he went to the bar, returning shortly with Nicole's cola, beer for himself, and a marquerita for Kate.

Nicole took her drink. "Thank you, Alex. How did you and Kate meet?"

He grinned as he replied, "We went to high school together, then both went to UCLA when we graduated. It was ... what … tenth grade? … we started dating."

Kate nodded after she put her drink down. "Yup! It's been about six years now. We were working on that environmental science project for biology class. We worked together so well, we started going out and haven't quit since." Her eyebrows rose as she saw a smile on Nicole's face and an evil-looking gleam in her eyes. "And no, we haven't talked about marriage yet! We both want to get our graduate degrees before that, so we don't have the stress of school plus family."

Alex looked quickly between the two, wondering what he'd just missed. "What about you, Nicole? Who's in your life?"

Nicole thought she'd done quite well at controlling her reaction. He couldn't possibly know. "I don't have anyone right now, and, since I'll be busy traveling for the next few years, I don't see that changing anytime soon."

Alex looked puzzled. "What kind of job do you have?"

"My company does underground surveys all over the world. I'll have to spend a lot of time in the field, and a good relationship takes work and time." She smiled. "You and Kate have the right idea. Take the time you need to be sure; being friends first means you'll have the basis for one of those fifty-year marriages." Nicole took a sip of her soda, trying to swallow the nagging hurt she felt at memories of a lost friend.

The other two couples returned to the table with their drinks, allowing Nicole to sit back and observe the interactions between the young men and women, learning how this generation acted in the wild.

 

12:00 Noon PST

Sunday, January 14, 2001

Tanner Home, West Hollywood, CA

Nicole and Kate had gotten back to the house by midnight, and rose in time to make it to the ten o'clock Mass after their morning run. They returned to the main floor, dressed and packed for their return trip that afternoon.

"How can we help with lunch, Mom?" Kate inquired as she looked around the kitchen.

"Can you help me get the food out to the table? Nicole? Would you get the dishes out, please?"

As the three set up the table for the meal, Nicole noticed another concerned look from Kate's mother. ~I need to set her mind at ease, if I can.~ She also noted, with some amusement, that Mr. Tanner stayed out of the way of the lunch preparations. ~It's odd being on this side of the 'cooking is for women-folk' divide.~ A snicker leaked out, getting a look from Kate that would require an explanation later during their ride south.

 

1:30PM PST

Tanner Home, West Hollywood, CA

 

Kate loaded her last bag into the trunk of her car and shut the lid as Nicole and Mrs. Tanner looked on. "I guess that's it. We're both loaded."

Nicole checked the car. "I don't see your purse. Is it in the trunk?"

"Ack! I'll be right back! I'll let Dad know we're leaving, too." Kate scurried into the house to retrieve the missing item.

Nicole turned to Mrs. Tanner as Kate left. "Mrs. Tanner? I know you're still worried; is there anything I can do to set your mind at ease?"

The older woman gave her a sad look in response. "I think only time will tell, Nicole. People can say what they want—just don't hurt my baby."

Nicole felt the sting of tears. "I swear to do everything in my power to help and protect her for as long as I have breath, Mrs. Tanner. As I said, she's family to me."

Marie nodded in response as Kate bounced back out of the house. Greg trailed steadily behind.

"C'mon, Nicole! Time to go! Bye, Mom! Bye, Dad!" She hugged her parents and got in the driver's seat as Nicole closed her door. The elder Tanners were left chuckling and shaking their heads at their sometimes manic daughter.

 

2:45PM PST

Doubletree Suites

 

"So you were chuckling at my dad just sitting while we got lunch ready?" Kate asked.

"Not quite, it was more amusement at being the one in the kitchen for a change," Nicole finished as they arrived at her motel. "Did you hold your room over the weekend?"

Kate shook her head. "I need to check in again."

"Do you think they'd let you stay here instead? I'd like to have you closer at hand."

Kate thought for a moment. "I think they would as long as the cost isn't too different."

The two compared the rates, finding the Doubletree charged the same rate as the Holiday Inn. They made their way to the desk and found the room connecting to Nicole's was free for the week.

"It's early enough for you to cancel the reservation at Holiday Inn without penalty. You can do that when we get to the rooms," Nicole advised her friend.

"Do you know how to do that?" Kate looked a bit uncertain.

"I've done it once or twice in my life." Nicole gave her a reassuring smile. "Let's get everything in and I'll walk you through it."

It took only a few minutes to carry the bags up. The two spent more time getting their bags unpacked and themselves settled into their rooms.

Nicole opened the connecting door between their rooms and knocked; Kate opened her side soon after the knock, and the two took care of the reservation cancellation.

 

5:00PM

Dana Point beach

 

A bright full moon just crested the high bluffs that rose to the east, separating the sea from the town, as they walked along the sand just north of the marina. The waves, hardly more than ripples, broke on the shore with those long intervals characteristic of the Pacific. Sparkles of moonlight glittered on the water as the last of the sunlight faded.

"I really enjoy the beach; if I ever have to leave California, I think it's what I'll miss most." Kate walked beside her companion, skipping and kicking little sprays of water as waves reached her.

The gentle noise was a perfect remedy for the case of nerves Nicole had as she contemplated the weeks ahead. She walked along the edge of the water, shoes in hand despite the cool temperatures, reveling in the moment of peace.

"I enjoy this, too, though I think I like taking walks in the woods just as much. You can get lost in the bird songs and the hum of insects." She watched with amusement as Kate sent another small shower of sea water flying.

They passed a trail that wound down a low point in the bluff, and Nicole noted a small group of people in the cleft. Their voices, though not loud, were clear to Nicole. ~Not good,~ she thought. ~They're a bunch of kids looking for trouble, and there's no-one else in the area. Why didn't I spot them earlier?~ She mentally chewed herself out for carelessness and began looking for alternative routes off the beach as she kept to the same pace she'd used before. People were out in the world who wanted to kill her; if she wasn't more observant she'd be dead. She tried to conceal her search. If they were trouble she might be able to avoid a confrontation by appearing confident. A memory from somewhere bubbled to the surface, "When in doubt about your footing, barefoot is best." She hoped it would be unnecessary to use that advice as she wondered where it came from.

She spoke quietly and clearly to Kate. "We may have a problem. Don't look around or change your pace. There are some people in that low point in the bluff, and they don't sound pleasant. If they start trouble, stay behind me and watch my back. With luck, they won't bother us, but you need to be ready if they do."

Kate nodded, but the worried look on her face made her feelings clear.

 

 

This time of year the beach was their domain after dark. They gathered here, hidden from the trailer park some called home, to assert their dominion over their turf on anyone who trespassed.

A nudge caught the attention of the leader and an arm pointed to two figures walking their beach. A closer look and the moonlight revealed long hair and two slender, feminine figures. The evening might be much more fun than they thought if entertainment was providing itself. The four youths moved out of the cleft, stringing a cordon across the beach to cut off the women who were seemingly oblivious to their danger.

 

 

She heard them moving behind them. It was no more than the rustle of clothing, but it was enough. There was more than one; she could hear at least one on each side as they approached. Nicole took a good look at the cliffs and the beach ahead. If they attacked, she didn't want witnesses. A quick mental inventory confirmed she was unarmed. As long as there were no guns, they should be OK, she hoped; it had dawned on her that even one-on-one they might wind up dead if the gang decided just to kill and rob them.

~Some job I'm doing of protecting Kate.~ She hissed to her friend, "Kate, I'm going to stop and turn. Follow my lead and stay behind me!" Suppressing the sudden jolt of fear and anger at herself, she turned quickly, trying to throw them off their balance. A quiet shuffle of sand told her Kate was, for the moment, where she was told to be. Four youngsters, in their late teens, were in a line that was converging on their position. The sudden realization of their vulnerability started a surge of adrenalin.

 

 

The chicks stopped and turned to face them. They both had pretty faces and showed no fear as the gang approached. They would teach them to show more respect. They ended in a semicircle as the leader spoke.

"Hey! What are you doing on our beach?"

 

 

Nicole shrugged as she replied, "The sign said it was a public beach."

The leader, a tall dark-haired boy, grinned. "It's not; it's ours. If you use it, you gotta pay us."

"Pay you what?" As if there was a question, she thought. She was actually grateful they were looking at her for sex, not money.

The boy's grin got wider and was echoed on the other faces. "I'm sure a couple of pretty chicks like you two can come up with something."

Nicole cocked her head slightly. "I don't think so. You'd best stop now, before you get hurt."

The four boys stopped in shock, then became angry. Who was this skinny broad to warn them? They started to reach into their pockets.

The redhead saw the grins change to anger as the four reached their right hands into their pockets, presumably for weapons. From somewhere, more memories rose with knowledge of what to do. Time to see just how fast and strong she really was. She dropped her shoes and moved. "Kate! Cover my back!" Her voice sounded loud after the relative quiet before.

Kate had watched the confrontation, growing more nervous as the intent of the gang became clear. Steeled as she was, the sudden shout from Nicole startled her. It took a moment to realize her friend was moving to the attack, drop her own shoes, and begin to move as well.

Nicole shifted first to her right to keep the weapons being drawn on the far side of the teen's bodies. A quick punch to the stomach of the kid folded him over. Nicole stayed in motion as she turned to the next in line, the leader, as the first kid fell to the sand. She heard Kate move into position behind her, and mentally cursed as the boy at the far end began shifting around to attack from Nicole's rear.

Time seemed to slow for the two women as the adrenalin fully kicked in; Nicole was already in striking range as the leader finished pulling an object out of his pocket. Not waiting to see what it was, Nicole reached out for his wrist. A sickening 'SNAP' revealed the true strength she was using as the bones snapped under the twist of her hand. She left him to lie there, screaming in pain.

The third youth had a knife out and ready as she moved in. She tried to control the strength she was using as she kicked out to the groin area. A shriek and huddled collapse rewarded the effort.

Nicole stopped and turned in time to see the end of Kate's confrontation with the last teen.

The fourth teen had ignored his companions as he moved toward Kate. Smaller than her companion, he thought he could use her as a hostage if things went bad, or chase her off and attack the redhead from the back. He took out his knife and moved in.

Kate heard the shriek of the first youth as she shifted to cover the teen moving from the far end of the line. A cold chill hit as she saw the blade he pulled from his pocket. ~I can't back off. I have to protect Nicole from this kid and his knife!~ A portion of her mind noted the second teen's scream of pain.

The knife seemed to move in slow motion as Kate watched. It was almost like being in a scene from 'The Matrix' as she reached out to grab the wrist of the knife hand and make him let go of the blade. The truth of her speed and strength hit her as she could see the wrist distort, the shape ending with an unnatural angle as she felt the bones snap.

He'd gotten in close, but suddenly his hand lost its grip on the blade. For an instant the fourth teen looked at the sharp, sideways bend of his wrist—then the pain struck and he screamed.

Kate paled as she looked at her handiwork. Self-defense or not, her stomach lurched at the agony inflicted on her attacker. She looked quickly around and noted Nicole looked equally sick as she surveyed the injured bodies littering the sand.

Nicole spoke, shakily, as she made sure Kate was also OK. "I think we'd better let these four leave. Don't forget to pick up your shoes"

The attacker's screams of pain had diminished to moans as they slowly recovered to their feet. They looked fearfully at the two women.

Nicole nodded in the direction of the cleft, collected her shoes, and waited, keeping an eye on the teens as they staged a bedraggled retreat. The four teens kept glancing in her direction, seemingly fearful the two would finish them all off. Kate collected the weapons as they left, hurling them as far as possible into the ocean. As the youths disappeared into the cleft, the two women returned the way they'd come, staying close enough to the water's edge to ensure their tracks were obliterated.

They finally rounded the turn in the coastline and were well out of sight of the stretch of beach where the encounter had taken place.

Kate at first relaxed, and then the memory of the brief skirmish returned. The sound and feel of bone snapping under her blow echoed in her ears as the boy's face contorted in agony. Her stomach lurched at the memory. She ran up the sand to the edge of the bluff, followed by Nicole.

Five minutes later, the two finally had their stomachs more or less back under control. The remnants of lunch were concealed under sand where they had vomited, then dealt with dry heaves as mind and body rebelled against the memory of the fight.

"I don't want to do this anymore." Kate moaned as she fought to cope.

Her pale companion nodded. "I don't either; I'm sorry, Kate. I should have picked up on those kids being there before it got to that point."

 

 

By the time they reached the motel, they were finally recovered enough to think about food. A light tuna salad and some ginger ale to settle their still roiled stomachs were all either could manage.

Nicole's mind spun as she reviewed her actions. ~Stupid! Everything might have been lost if I hadn't been lucky, and that teen, and Kate.~ Her stomach lurched again at the memory of the shattered wrist and endangering her sister. There was no real need for either; she HAD to learn control and forethought. She said a silent prayer for forgiveness and help as she struggled to hold down her meal.

 

Sunday, January 14, 2001

Elsewhere

"Well? Where is she? You've had a month. I expected results by now!"

"Sir, she hasn't shown up anywhere yet. No calls to battle; no confrontations in the press. This new queen is being quiet; we can't find her until she does something."

"That's not good enough! You can't let them get established!"

"Sir, we do have one idea. Why not let the western intelligence services do our work?"

The voice grew curious. "What do you mean?"

"We won't have time to set it up until the end of the year, but why not set up a series of operations and make the Amazons look responsible? Even if they don't find her, it will make the queen keep her head down and slow their rebuilding."

A low chuckle rumbled through the room. "That's hilarious. You're making two groups that should be allies into opponents." A sharp laugh escaped. "Excellent! Do what you've suggested as soon as the resources are available."

"As you wish, sir."

  

  

  

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