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Chapter Thirty-nine:

I awoke several hours later in my bed. The nap I took seemed to have relieved the vomiting and the upset stomach I had prior to lying down. I felt like my old self and I felt energetic. I stripped out of the ship's uniform I had on, placing the articles of clothing into the self cleaner adjacent to my closet. At least I thought to myself, I wouldn't have to do any laundry as I did back on Earth, which didn't bother me in the least to do.

I put on a robe, walking to the nursery to check on Lynn. I noticed that the crib was empty. That seemed strange that she was not there.

"Computer, Locations of Lynn and Gordon please"

"Done, Lynn is with your mother in her stateroom. Gordon is in the Communications Room."

"Thank you, notify my husband and mother that I am awake and in the shower, please."

"Done, Gordon and she will be here shortly."

I padded softly to my original objective, to take my shower. As the water cascaded over my body I thought to myself that I should have done this earlier. Whatever queasiness I had faded, I was hungry now. I hurriedly exited the shower with my thoughts focusing on food, any type of food.

"Computer, please find Carmen. Have her come to our Stateroom please."

"Done."

As I dried off my thoughts turned to why mother had the baby and Gordon was in the Comm. Room. I quickly went to our bedroom and dressed casually with clothes brought to the ship without my knowledge. It was heaven just put my hair into a ponytail, to pull up a pair of white capris slacks over my panties and a spaghetti strap pink blouse over my bra. Oh yes and a pair of white sneakers on my feet. I guess that mothers will always be sneaky when it comes to what their daughters like and will wear.

I just finished tying my shoes when the computer announced a guest.

"Allow."

"Senora, Come Esta? Que es entuerto, Amado?" Carmen said bidding me greetings and asking what was wrong.

"I'm fine Carmen, nothing is wrong."

"Do not tell me that, mi cari. What was it you said to me so long ago, Heh, we have no secrets, Si. I heard Gordon talking to mamacita, that you were not well."

Damn, the husband of mine. Wait until I get my hands on him. I know he is worried, but to go to my mother?

"Carmen I had an upset stomach now I could eat anything you make. Please, that's why I called you here. The synthesizers cannot match your cooking."

"Okay what would you like?"

"Oh, I don't know maybe Pickled Herring in Crème Sauce, Oyster Stew, Fried Clams and deep fried Flounder filets, Crab and Lobster cheese soufflé, and hush puppies. Oh and a salad with bleu cheese dressing with tuna." I said smiling impishly.

I saw Carmen's eyes open wide and her eyebrows grow very close together as I said what I wanted to eat. Then I saw her smile.

"Okay you'll get it all. Would you like sweet or dill pickles too?"

"Kosher dills, Carmen."

"Oh, Madre de Dios………… you are!"

"I am what?"

"Pregnant! Have you seen the Doctor?"

"Carmen if you tell anyone………………….."

"Your husband and mother already know, and dear sweet child I know for sure. You only like sweet pickles and do not like them dilled. You also prefer your Herring in Wine Sauce and onions."

"Oh Shit!”

"Si Senora, Mierda!”

As we both agreed with each other, mother walked into the lounge area with Lynn in her arms and Gordon closely behind her.

"Okay you two what are you conspiring about?" Mother asked smiling.

Carmen was right mother did know! I could tell by the expression on her face and that smile.

"Nothing Mother, I just told Carmen what I wanted to eat."

"Okay Carmen spill it, what does she want to eat?" Mother asked.

Carmen described in detail what I wanted to eat. There was no look of astonishment on her face. She had that knowing look and gave it to Gordon. It was the proverbial, I told you so look that all mothers have when it comes to their children, especially their pregnant daughters.

Gordon came to me, picking me up into his arms, hugging and kissing me.

"Hold on, it hasn't been confirmed yet. If I am, I have a feeling you won't be doing that too much to me in a few months." I said.

Gordon said whispering in my ear, "Sweetheart you should have been there when I was having Lynn for us, I was a total ass to everyone. I love you and that is the only thing that matters."

"Excuse me, but I will go get Arlene's meal. Now that she'll be eating for two, her and the baby. Shall I bring enough for everyone?"

"Go ahead Carmen I don't know about her menu though. Make Arlene what she craves but please use your judgement for us."

"I'll make something good for you."

"Thank you Carmen. As for my daughter, she thinks she can hide these things from her mother or any woman that has conceived. She will get more help then she wants from everyone. This is a joyous occasion for us." My mother said as she adjusted Lynn in her arms.

"Mother please stop this banter, you're getting as bad as Amanda. Oh Shit! Does she know yet?"

"No, not yet. I wasn't planning on saying anything until we know for sure." Gordon said.

"Honey, believe me when I tell you I know for sure that we are pregnant."

We all talked as I told them what was going on with my body. It wasn't just the cravings but also the vomiting, tiredness and the mood swings that I have been hiding from them. As we spoke the computer announced the doctor had arrived.

Before I could get a word from my mouth mother said, " Hello Doctor Carson. I would safely say that Arlene is about to become a mother again."

"Iris, you take care of the ship and the Armada. Let me take care of Arlene. Remember I have been her physician since I delivered her. Arlene stop looking at me like that, take a good look at my face and add one hundred pounds to my frame."

He was right! I did know him as the doctor that always came if one of us were injured or there was a problem with our bodies. He was always so kind and gentle to me. He always made me feel so special. But now he looked so young and handsome, Wow!

"Now Arlene, please go into the bedroom, lie down on the bed and get comfortable. I'll be right in there."

I left the lounge area going into the bedroom. As I lay down on the bed my thoughts wandered toward what Gordon was doing in the communications area. I suppose he would tell me after this little examination. I happened to be hearing those in the other room whispering, which stopped and Doctor Carson walked into the room.

"Computer, tie into Sick Bay computer, file encrypted, voice, mine no others."

"Completed."

"Begin, noninvasive Sensor Scan of female."

"Done."

"Send results to my Comm. Unit with transcription of analysis."

"Done."

As the Doctor Carson studied the results of the test, I quickly ran went to the bathroom, as I seemed to be urinating more frequently lately. When I returned the Doctor was smiling.

"Arlene are you ready for the results?"

"I already know."

"Oh really?"

"Sure I'm pregnant, I realized it earlier. My signs are some fatigue, nausea, vomiting, skin dryness, and back pain. I've been hiding the cravings. We've wanted this for us and for the people of the Armada. This is a sign of the rebirth of our people." I said joyously.

"I must say you are taking this well. I would also say you have been preparing yourself for this day. You certainly have changed for the better. You've turned into a role model for us all."

"Please call in Gordon and my mother." I said as I lay down upon the bed.

As my mother and Gordon entered and came to my side I said," Computer, Comm Link, visuals, general announcement to all Armada Ships."

I saw that look of joy come onto their faces. Gordon and mother kissed me.

"Done."

"Good People of the Armada, the time of war is near, this may very well be a time for sadness to all as we may lose shipmates in the coming action.

But, today is a time of joy for all, Besides me, are your King Gordon, my mother High Elder Iris and Doctor Carson. We have been Blessed this day with the knowledge that your Queen is with child……….."

"No My Queen with children, three to be exact." The doctor said interrupting me.

I was speechless as I passed out.

Chapter Forty:

When I came out of my faint both Mother and Gordon were holding me. This bit of news was a total shock to me. Three more babies, this would be very interesting to say the least.

"What happened?" I asked.

"It may have been the news of our impending arrival of triplets. You do know that for us, this is very rare but so are twins. Don't worry you will have the best of care and all the help you need." Doctor Carson said holding my hand in concern.

I looked over to mother and Gordon. I again saw the joys in their eyes and their facial expressions. All I felt was fear!
How in the hell was I going to cope with this situation? Lynn was just one baby, now there were three more coming. Sure there would be help but who was going to be feeding all these babies? You guessed it, me. What about the birthing? Oh well I have the time to mentally prepare myself. I will let nature take its inevitable natural course.

"The Armada is in a joyous uproar. They feel as you said that this is a sign of good fortune for all." Mother said hugging me.

"The entire Armada heard Doctor Carson announce the triplets. When you fainted I declared forty-eight hours of celebration of this historic event." Gordon said as he kissed me.

It was then that I realized why the female dolphin was so protective of me, she knew that I was pregnant.

"I was thinking, do you remember when we were swimming?"

"Sure."

"Do you remember that female dolphin that gave birth that stayed close to Lynn and I with her baby?"

"Yes, it seemed odd at first but then I remembered how they acted on Earth with you. I thought it was normal behavior for them."

"I'm telling you she knew or somehow sensed I was pregnant even before I realized it myself."

"According to the ancient legends, the queen normally could tell if she was pregnant by the behavioral actions, such as you described by our friends. Well I guess it isn't legend anymore." Mother said.

"Well you don't need me anymore. I have more physicals to give. Arlene I want to see you at least several times a week. Also I don't want you to take any chances, if you travel I will be going with you. If you sense even the slightest abnormality you will notify me. You can exercise but you need to rest and eat properly too. Am I quite clear on those orders?"

"I will see that she does as you say. If not I will bring my Mother back." Gordon said.

"You wouldn't?" I said.

"Oh yes I would! Will you do as Doctor Carson says?"

"I promise." I said half-heartedly.

With that I slowly got up from the bed with Gordon's assistance. As I entered the lounge area I was converged upon my father, father in law, sister's, bother, Carmen and our guests.

"Congratulations" They all shouted as we walked in.

I tried to go back to the bedroom but was forcibly held onto by mother and Doctor Carson to remain. I was taken to a chair and forced to sit in that chair as everyone spoke at once.

Carmen was walking around to everyone and handing them all a wine glass with a purple looking liquid in the glasses. I assumed that they were filled with some exotic beverage from another solar system. I was given an herbal mint tea, I think in my glass I smelled the heavy aromatic smell of mint.

"Let us raise our glasses to toast and celebrate the blessings bestowed upon the Queen and King and the Armada from the Mother of Life. Our cause has been proven to be honorable." Tommy said smiling.

"As the Poles say, Do Waszego Zdrowia, We Russians normally say Zdrowia, health." Alexei said.

"Are we getting knowledgeable in linguistics now? Never mind it is good and I agree." Bezsonka asked laughing as everyone drank to the toast.

Thank goodness Carmen was here. She had made enough food to feed the crew of Mother One and me. Mother brought a plate to me with the pickles I had asked for earlier. My cravings had stopped for the moment, as I ate the food I had asked Carmen to prepare.

We all spoke of many things as we enjoyed the feast. I finally got the nerve to ask, "Gordon what happened in the communications room?"

"Yes we heard you were called there, since Arlene was indisposed. " Li Wei said.

All I could do was blush as mother and father just touched my hand. That was the signal to listen and keep quiet. My sister's and Tommy nodded to agree with them.

"Well Amanda arrived at the Ad'lph homeworld, High Elder Felicia Cortez will be there in several hours. They will prepare them for our arrival. We have been asked to address a coalition of planets. The Ad'lph agree that we will need all the help we can assemble.

They have sent messengers to the homeworlds of many of the far-reaching galaxies to attend this summit. The Gor'tha would attend also they are on a blood vendetta now.

Amanda requests we come with five Mother Ships and a representative from Earth to show our potential strength, Felicia agrees with her."

"I can see the representative should be Li Wei, don't you see it also Bezsonka?" Michael said.

"Da, I agree, all in the UN will say they agree. This is an important step for our planet and for peace my friend."

"Good, it's settled then." Michael said.

"Wait, don't I have anything to say?" Li Wei said.

The room became quiet and then everyone said in unison, "No!"

"I would have to say you are going also, Li Wei. Father prepare the ships for transit please. Mother please select the Mother Ships to go in escort with us." I said.

"Michael and I, thank you for your hospitality. This has been a learning experience for us. We wish good travelling on your journey. Alexei and Jake will be very helpful to you. As the French say, Bon Voyage y Bon Chance. " Bezsonka said.

"I agree with my friend, it certainly has been a learning experience. Jake, as your boss, I ask that you do what you can to help. Please do have a good journey and a safe one. I think Bezsonka and I can safely say we wish we were going also, but we have a bit of diplomacy and explaining to do on Earth." Michael said shaking the hands of Jake and Alexei.

"High Elder Travis will be in command of the Armada to maintain the safety of Earth. Do not hesitate to call upon her for anything you need. We will also maintain communications with NASA through our ships." Mother said.

"We understand and thank you all." Michael said.

"Could we share the same flight home to Earth? Bezsonka and I have to get our people to trust one another again. Between the two of us this would be a sign to all there is trust once again." Michael said.

"It will be arranged. We'll fly you back in thirty minutes. Please be ready." Father said.

"Please, take both Presidents back to Earth in the Royal Barge. Have Jerome hand pick the crew for this flight. Sorry dad you're needed here as Jerome is also." Gordon said.

Gordon's father was disappointed but he agreed before leaving to tell Jerome.

The two Presidents too agreed and left quickly to be ready for their flight back to earth. Alexei and Jake were told to stay as they both knew their way to the hanger bay.

"Mother, before arrival to that homeworld, detach all Cruisers and launch the Destroyers. I would like the Destroyers to escort the Barge down to the planet surface and the Cruisers and Scouts to protect all.

Have Paul and Eve coordinate the security personnel onboard the destroyers. I would like high security in effect for us and the Landing Party. Departure will be one hour after the Barge returns to Mother One." Gordon said.

"It will be done." Mother said.

"Speaking of Paul and Eve, where are they? They're normally around when we all gather." I asked.

"They're both in the armory with Al." Father said.

"What Armory? With Al?" Gordon said.

Weapons and my brother in law were synonymous with each other. He was a former U.S. Marine that was assigned to an embassy security detachment before marrying my sister, Irene.
Before their marriage, Irene had laid down the law saying that no firearms would be in her house. This rough, tough and burly man loved her so much; he complied with her wishes without hesitation.

I was never very fond of him but he was Irene's husband so I tolerated him. When Irene disclosed herself to being an alien all this man could say was "So what, I love you just as I always have." That man stood in a different light in my eyes from then on.

Irene then told me privately that so far her married life was grand. Gordon had requested that the medical section do what they could to prolong his longevity for Irene's sake. Medical research can do miracles I found out with something called the Suicide Gene. He began to regress in age with his virility increasing. This same procedure was then offered to all the spouses that were from Earth and to the Earth.

There was even talk of Irene and Al having children that they could not have before due to his former medical problem of viable sperm for conception.

"The Armory was found full of personal weapons and heavy armor in the new hanger bay. Al volunteered to help with the inventory and to help train Boarding Parties to fight if necessary." Father said.

"Since he has a weapons background place him in charge of the Armada Armories and the training in the use of the new weapons. Give him any personnel and whatever he needs. His bosses will be Eve and Paul. He will work directly with Armada Security and Intelligence." I said.

As I said those words I looked directly at Irene. I saw her eyes light up with happiness together with my sisters and Tommy.

I felt a slight push on my wall, 'Thank you Sis.' It was Irene; all I could do was smile at her.

This was the least I could do as Al was always frowned upon by me in my past life. I owed him much and the debt is not fully repaid as far as I was concerned. His love and dedication to Irene and her happiness was most important to me. Maybe, just maybe, now I could pay Al back for my insensitivities.

"The Barge has departed the ship with our guests. It should be back in thirty minutes. Your mother is staying with you and I'll be going topside to the bridge." Father said then kissed me.

"Thank you Father, I'll see you later." I said.

He turned and went out across the room in a healthful stride and out the door as he said his good byes to everyone.

Our assembled family and extended family members stayed joking, talking, eating and laughing with each other. We seemed to enjoy each other's company all the more then we have ever had.

I was eating the second plate of the food that Carmen had prepared when I heard my father's voice say, "All Hands, prepare to get underway, make all underway reports to the Bridge. Prepare the ship for Wormhole Passage. Secure all loose objects throughout the ship. Astro-navigator, Armada and Chief Engineer report to the Bridge."

Daniel gave his plate to Carmen returning to kiss and hug me saying, "You have done all of us proud. Amanda and I are very proud of Gordon, Lynn and you sweetheart, we love you all so very much. Thanks ever so much for the additional grandbabies."

I saw a tear is his eye when he kissed me once again before running to the Bridge and tending to his duties. I too had tears in my eyes from what he said. This made up my mind that these babies I know carried within me and Lynn would be loved and cherished by all of us.

Chapter Forty-one:

The Royal Barge had return to Mother One without incident. The party had broken up and my wonderful sisters cleaned up the Stateroom. Mother and Li Wei had stayed just long enough to give Lynn a bath and prepare her for bed. They both went to the bridge together after kissing us both.

Gordon and I stayed embraced in each other's arms as we heard my father say, "Now secure the Flight Deck Doors. Raise aegis screens to full, Condition yellow; bring all weapons on line with safeties in place. Maintain Condition red on designated Scouts, all Cruisers are at condition red, maintain safeties on all high Yield Particle Beam weapons. Underway! Stealth all Ships before wormhole entry."

I didn't know everything that was said. I must have had the look of stupidity on my face.

"Computer, hologram, three hundred and sixty degrees, five nautical miles from this ship. Display all please." Gordon said.

I watched as the selected mother ships surrounding us and taking their stations in our flight formation. Suddenly without any warning the ship seemed to disappear as if a light switch was turned of in a room.

"Computer, cease hologram." Gordon said.

"I imagine we'll be in the wormhole soon." I said.

"Are you scared?"

"Kind of, I don't know what to expect." I said nestling into Gordon more.

"The way the ship and the drives are made you won't feel anything. Except a few seconds of Déjà vu and a brief euphoric feeling."

"That I can handle. Will the gravitational pull or the radiation hurt the babies?"

"The doctor says not at all. He believes that our mutations where caused by the long periods of time traversing the wormholes and the radiation storms after coming out of the wormhole."

"But…………"

"We'll all be fine. Nothing will happen, stop the worrying."

I got even closer to Gordon. I was worried! I felt the safety of Gordon's arms wrapped around me. At the same time I wanted to see what we were headed into, the wormhole. My curiosity was at peek stimulation to see this momentous event. This was to be the first wormhole transit for Mother Ship's of the Armada in many decades. This was the first time that the Armada had a Queen and King to transit with them.

"You have visitors." The computer said.

"Allow." I said as I sat up very close to Gordon.

As the door slid open Eve, Paul and Al entered into the stateroom.

"We're sorry that we missed the party. We came to congratulate you both on the event." Eve said as they all sat down close to Gordon and I.

"Thank you, have you three eaten yet?" Gordon asked.

"Yes, Carmen took care of that matter. She's a really special lady and a marvelous chef." Al said nervously.

I noticed that Al was nervous for some reason at first I was tempted to tap into his mind and find out why. Instead I said, "What's wrong Al?"

"I know that you really haven't cared too much for me in the past. What has happened in the past stays in the past. I want to thank you and Gordon for allowing me to help. I want to thank you both for giving me a new lease on life so that I can be with Irene longer. I love her deeply………….."

"We know Al, we agree that the past stays in the past. You have skills that Eve and Paul can use throughout the Armada. There will be more people coming that we might have to use as Boarding Parties, they're safety is paramount." I said as I got up and walked over to Al. I gave him a kiss and said into his ear softly, "Take care of Irene sweetie and that's a royal command."

"I will Arlene, I will, I promise you that, and thank you." He said softly smiling.

Sitting back down next to Gordon I sensed that the nervousness that Al exhibited before, was now gone. He was more relaxed being in the same room with me. I felt closure to what I had done to him in the past.

"Arlene, the Armory was the same situation as when we found the second Hanger Bay. There are weapons there we have never seen before, but we do have the necessary documentation." Paul said.

"They are all high yield energy based weapons. According to the documents they destroy anything that is comprised of any type of molecule starting at the nucleus working its way out. It's quite nasty if you are on the receiving end of it. It does tend to disintegrate the material." Eve added.

"It appears that your ancestors knew of the oncoming dangers. From the manuals and the tests ran on the weapons that were archived. One shot from those weapons could obliterate the heaviesttof Earth's armored tanks with as much as a foot of armor plate or obliterate the heaviest of their ocean going vessels. The devastation these could cause are unbelievable if placed into the wrong hands." Al said.

"Well I guess that you will have to see that they don't, Al." I said.

Al smiled at us all saying, "I will do my best and thanks for the confidence."

"Al you screw up and you answer to Eve, Paul and all the crews of the Armada. Is that understood?"

"Yes my Queen, it is understood."

I smiled saying, " Now that, that is out of the way what else?"

"We took Al to the gymnasium to test his skills in Hand to Hand Combat. He taught us moves we never even thought about and kicked our asses." Eve said smiling.

"Arlene, do you remember Irene and I lived in Japan for several years. We were both English instructors to one of the manufacturing corporations there.

Well we became friends of one of our student's families there. It turned out that the family had ties way back to feudal Japan and the Father was the leader of the clan. This man was also the sensei of the Dojo he ran.

When the sensei found out I had been a Marine he took me into the dojo to show him what I had learned. He severely beat my ass. I was hooked and so was Irene. We begged to become his students. We became the first Iteki he had ever taught. We learned and became accepted students by the Master of the Clan.

We were taught the techniques used in Aikijujutsu the use of centrifugal/centripetal forces, harmonious Ki, entering and center, as in Aikido. Aikido as you might know uses the use of striking, immobilization, throwing and leveraging as in JuJutsu. But Aikijujutsu uses armed weapons such as staff, sword, bow, halberd and spear within the overall concept of utilizing the opponent's energy to invoke and apply techniques.

Every chance we had we were in the dojo learning the skills and concepts of the art. This was an experience for us. We became skilled enough to become sensei's in our own rights." Al said.

This was another revelation that I didn't know of Al or my sister. Now they possessed skills that might be needed.

After thinking a short time I said, "Eve, Paul are you saying you want Al to teach the art to your security crews?"

"I guess we are, with your permission of course." Paul said.

"Granted, Al, you and Irene will teach all those that wish to learn the skills you are talking about. Paul, you and Eve, will teach Irene and Al all of the skills they need to become security personnel. They are to be with you all the time as your partners and second in command of Armada Security." I said.

Well this was another time that I came out smelling like a rose in bloom. I saw their faces brighten, perhaps I was getting this royalty stuff down to a science.

"By your Command, your Majesty." Eve said.

"Bull Eve, this is what you and Paul wanted anyway, you have it now." Gordon said smiling.

"Okay you caught us. Are we that predictable?" Paul said.

Gordon and I looked at each other and then to them saying in unison, "Yes!" Then we all laughed together.

We spoke to them for several more minutes as they drew up their plans of action. They were the ones that decided to break up the meeting, which I was glad they did. I wanted to put on a swimsuit and go to the Arboretum to by amongst the nature we had onboard. I also did not realize that we had started our passage through the wormhole transit pipeline.

Okay I didn't feel anything unusual as I thought we should have. All I knew was that it felt as if we were still in our orbit around Earth. There was no sensation of movement as you feel on an automobile, passenger jet aircraft or on a train. This ship was an engineering marvel to me, also our people of Urh'natau had indeed left a legacy for us to preserve.

Chapter Forty-two:

Walking through the hatch doors and into the Arboretum I noticed that there were few people here to enjoy the immense beauty contained in this spot. The solitude was wonderful as I walked further into this place of beauty. Gordon stayed with Lynn in our stateroom deciding that I needed the peace and solitude of this place.

I laid my robe down on the grass and walked to the waterline. Before I had placed a toe into the water our friends had come to greet me. Gradually I walked into the water as the waters wrapped around and enveloped my body. This was the serenity I needed as I felt my body recharge itself with the energy I needed. Slowly I floated on my back as my friends swam and played with me each of them seeking my attention.

"Hi Sis, Gordon said you were here. Do you mind if we join you?"

As I turned my head I saw it was Irene and Al. What could I say, no and tell them to leave.

"Sure, this area belongs to everyone. Come on in and enjoy yourselves." I said.

They both entered the water gradually hand in hand. This was love between an Earthling and one of our kind. There was still friction with some of our couples that I had hoped would resolve itself once we returned back to Earth. Perhaps Irene and Al could help them adjust?

We managed to talk about many subjects from family to marriage and of course the inevitable, children and pregnancy. All the while our friends remained close to my side. Al, I noticed had been very attentive throughout the conversation, even to the point of asking several intelligent questions.

I at once noticed something I had not realized before that this man not only was devoted to Irene but also was very intelligent. Okay, sexually as a man he was a pig, crude as most men are, but he was loving and caring toward Irene that was what mattered to me. This was what impressed me the most about him.

I told them of the problem we had of several spouses having problems with the adjustment of having married someone from the Armada. This problem had caused major breakups within the family unit that had once been joyful. I asked that they speak to those that are having their problems and also to see if anything that can be done for the children of this marriage. They both agreed to my proposal immediately once we had returned to our Earth base in stationary orbit.

We continued to swim in the waters until I felt a tapping at my privacy wall.

'Sweetheart, your father requires us on the Bridge. We are about to drop out of transit. Karla said she would watch Lynn for us.' Gordon thought roared into my brain center.

I told Gordon I would meet him on the Bridge. Explaining the situation to Irene and Al, they both understood why I had to leave. I told them to enjoy themselves that we would all meet again later.

I gently caressed all my friends in the water to say my good-byes until later. I touched the leader of the pod and felt strange for a moment and sensed communication.

'Danger……… our Queen………Danger…………shortly………protect young!'

I saw Irene's hands go to her face. I knew she felt what I felt. I was at a loss for words. I regained my composure and asked through my thoughts.

'What am I to fear?'

'Our enemies……… have friends………that are coming………beware all gifts………Not is all……… as it seems.'

My private thoughts were that this was a cryptic warning. How did these creatures of the deep know and have they ever communicated with us before?

"You go to the Bridge and we'll tell Eve and Paul. Damn another first contact for you!" Irene said.

'Listen……… to blood. She……is right! Be aware…… Be cautious…… strangers…… not of blue water planet………of birth.'

'Arlene are you alright' Gordon asked mentally.

'Yes, but why do you ask?'

'Who is mentally transmitting to you?"

'The Alpha male of the pod I think. Did you sense the transmission too?'

'Yes, I'll be right there. I'll contact your father.'

'No need sire, we heard too.'

I noticed that father was being polite. None of us knew who was hearing this mental conversation.

'Why have you not contacted anyone else?'

'You are queen……… Queen Aimaila said………no others. Only new queen……. We obey her……….. and you.'

'Queen Aimaila! Why?'

'You blood……… We trust……… help you.'

'So is Lady Irene and Grand Duchess Iris.'

'True……… you taste like Aimaila………look like…… her………Iris……Irene……. Same ……and different. Friends…….are………Friends.'

'Yes we are friends, I thank you and the pod.'

'We…………..hungry………need to feed.'

'Eat well my friends. I will be back later to see you all.'

We watched as the pod launched themselves into the air landing gracefully in the water several times. The pod did another high-speed swim and walked on the top of the water with their tails, talking all the more.

I waved to those creatures that called us friend as they swam off to feed. I followed their movements visually for as long as I could, then they all were gone beneath the blue waters.

Turning, I slowly made my way to the beach were Gordon, Irene and Al were waiting.

"Are you okay Sis?" Irene said.

"I guess so, just surprised that's all."

"I never realized that they were so intelligent." Al said.

"Wait a minute here, Al you heard them too" Gordon asked.

"Well, yes." Al said.

"Irene get Al down to Sick Bay and have Doctor Carson run all the necessary tests on Al. Those tests that he runs on us. Have him submit those result to Arlene and myself."

"Why? Oh no, you're not thinking?"

"Yes I am, now hurry." Gordon said as he helped me into my robe.

Irene and Al lost no time heading toward sick bay. I never saw a man as large as Al, being dragged by a woman barely over five feet, three inches tall and he at five feet eleven inches tall. The era of the Cave-Woman was reborn!

Gordon and I laughed all the way to the Bridge. We had decided not to tell my father or mother what we expected. It was better to have conformation from Doctor Caason.

We both entered onto the Bridge from the anti-grav pads still laughing, barely able to control ourselves before going to my father.

"What's so funny?" He asked after he kissed me.

"Dad we'll tell you later. We must be sure first." Gordon said.

"Okay I'm used to being the last to find out anyway." He said acting hurt.

I felt sorry for him so I told him we suspected that Al was mutating toward our genetics code, how Al had felt and heard our friends telling me about the danger. I also told him how Irene had dragged him off to see the doctor. I saw the twinkle in his eye as we told him. I knew that Al was going to be catching some crap from him if he was the same as we were.

"That was a good decision you two made for them. Again you did well. I brought you up here to watch the launch." My father said.

"Computer hologram, three hundred and sixty degrees, bridge visibility transparent, Open flight deck hatches."

As I looked about the bridge the bulkheads seemed to disappear to the consistency of glass. The area of the solar system that we were in was lovely to gaze at. There were eight planets and a sun that blazed orange. The planets each had a different color scheme to them ranging from shades of gray to blue to purple. The beauty was overwhelming and beyond imagination.

"Computer, vocal announcement by Captain, code three Gamma Xeno Terra Four."

"Authorized, Done"

"All hands now hear this, flight quarters, flight quarters all hands man your flight quarters stations. All Ships you have a red deck. Prepare for launch."

I gazed once again at the vastness of this solar system we were in the beauty and my meager introspections or descriptions could not adequately describe the magnificence of what I was seeing. I felt insignificant; I wanted to explore these worlds that were before me. I rethought those ideas as I had my duties to perform with responsibilities to Earth and the Armada.

"All is at ready." The computer said.

"Computer, voice" My father said.

"All Cruisers you have a green deck for launch. Destroyers and Scouts you are at yellow deck. All support personnel stand by. All ships be advised we are in Stealth. Follow procedures as outlined."

Since we could not visually see the launching of the Cruisers I turned to the hologram and watched silently. Eighteen Heavy Cruisers came from beneath the Mother Ships that circled this diplomatic flight. I knew that the computers and their Data Links were controlling everything, but it was glorious to watch what was being done.

"Computer, Voice."

"All ships you have a green deck. All flight safety rules are in effect. Launch!"

Each of the Destroyers that were launched joined the formation just outside of the Heavy Cruisers. The Scouts that were launched stayed in close proximity to the Mother Ships. Each of these ships was prepared to do battle if necessary to protect the mission we were involved in. These men and women I considered being our heroes both of the Armada and of Earth. The crews of these ships contained many that had come voluntarily from Earth to give their lives if necessary to defend it.

As I watched the formations on the hologram I heard the faintest of footsteps. I turned to see Li Wei, Jake and Alexei had made their way to the Bridge.

"I must say it is gorgeous up here. Considering the warning that was given I see it was taken seriously." Li Wei said.

I looked at Gordon and my father with the look of surprise etched on all our faces.

"Did you hear the warning? All of you?" Father asked.

"Why yes, it was remarkable. I never dreamed that the dolphins had that much intelligence. The scientists on Earth that study them will go mad as they have tried to communicate with them for decades." Li Wei said while Jake and Alexei nodded in agreement.

I looked at both my father and Gordon again gently tapping on their walls of privacy. 'I think we do have a problem. If Al is diagnosed as I think he will be. We may have made a grievous error in their evolution pattern.'

The concern was etched on their faces as they both nodded in agreement to me.

'We will talk later on this matter.'

What matter? I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention, I was admiring the beauty of the planets." Li Wei said.

"You heard me?"

"Why yes, like you were speaking but not through our normal avenues of hearing." Li Wei said.

"Yes it was just like that." Jake said.

"Have you noticed anything else unusual?"

"Ah, I……..Yes." Jake stammered.

"Well spit it out Jake." Gordon said.

"Damn, it’s too embarrassing. I think not, I'll pass on that one." Jake said.

"Jake if you don't tell me I will enter your mind and grab all the gory details." I said.

"You can do that? Oh shit, I guess you can. Alright, I was having a dream. I met a wonderful woman here on the ship. We made love several times and fell asleep. I was having dreams about her, very vivid dreams, if you catch my drift.

I suddenly awoke to feelings I had never had before; they were orgasmic, very intense. I lay in the bed and was again overcome by the feeling that I had to urinate.

I went to the Head and stood as I always stood to urinate but I couldn't find it. My damn penis was gone! I panicked at first but the need to relieve myself was greater than my emotional panic.

I sat down and proceeded to relieve myself after I figured out how to control the plumbing. It felt strange to urinate as a woman relieves herself. As I heard the urine cascade in intensity I looked down to see that I had the breasts to match the other equipment between my legs.

I cleaned myself and went to the mirror. I was in shock! I looked like an exact duplicate of Margie that was lying in my bed. I didn't know what to do; I was scared to the point of humiliation. I was a freak by my own standards I thought as I screamed and later cried.

It was Margie that heard my scream and sobs, I had awakened her. She came to the Head and comforted me. That was a need that was psychological, instead of the physical. She held me as I cried uncontrollably, for that I will always be grateful to her for.

She was the one that showed and explained to me what amazing things that all of you can do. She showed me how to control the shape shifting that you do. I came to terms that day and night to the chauvinistic ways that I had as well as to brace femininity."

"Are you saying that you and Margie reversed roles?" Gordon asked.

"Yes and it was grand to be able to feel what she has always felt. It has brought us that much closer to each other. We have even moved in together with each other so she can watch and train me to control this new gift or gifts." Jake said smiling.

"Be careful Jake or might be the one that becomes pregnant. We know that from past lessons, don't we Arlene?" Father said.

I had a stupid smile on my face, as did Gordon. The time to tell them all the truth was here.

"Computer, solidify all bulkheads, Wormhole entry on my mark, secure all Launch Bays." Father said

"Standing by."

Father waited a few minutes, as the glass once again became the bulkheads blocking the view of the Solar System.

"Wormhole entry now. Resume former course to destination, resume flank speed, and maintain speed. Maintain contact and control all ships."

"Done, all information stored. We are at Flank Speed."

"Thank you."

"Now I think we should get you three to Sick Bay. I want a complete battery of test done by Doctor Carson in this matter." Gordon said as he took Jake, Li Wei and Alexei in tow to the anti-grav pad.

"One moment please I have one question. What is flank speed of the Armada ships?"

"Oh, in excess of over one hundred times the speed of light by your physics, Jake."

All the three of them had the animated facial expression with the look of disbelief on them. I too had that same look many times.

Father and I remained on the Bridge not speaking until they had departed.

"You do know that all the ships should be notified as to our concerns?"

"I do realize that and those from Earth that have undergone the treatment should be told and quickly. The entire Armada should be told and quickly. Perhaps these are isolated cases and perhaps they are not. I see possible ethical problems of abuse.

Father, we should wait for the results from Doctor Carson. We had no idea we would stimulate the processes of the evolutionary changes that are occurring. Perhaps it was intended and we happened to help those changes along.

Please notify the High Council with our permission and tell them all what we have found out. On second thought have mother do it."

"You do know they will be angry?" He said.

"Sure, but the mistakes were not intentional, they will all have the physician's report when it has been completed.

On my authority tell all the Ship Captains to be watchful of their Earth crewmembers. They must be observant to any abnormal behavior in them." I said as I kissed my father.

"One question my dear daughter, why do I get all the dirty assignments? You are just like your mother and your sisters."

I gave my father another kiss and smiled at him saying, "Because I asked you to do this and I know, isn't it grand Father."

"Now Arlene…………."

I once again took the lessons I had learned from my sisters. I kissed my Father again and hurried to the anti-grav pad.

"We still need to have to talk young lady." He said just as I got on the anti-grav pad.

I smiled, blew him a kiss and winked as I left the Bridge. I briefly saw that he was shaking his head and speaking to himself in disbelief of what I had done. Oh, the power we women had over men was truly irresistible. I love it!

Chapter Forty-two:

I was still laughing at my Father's reaction as I walked into the stateroom. Karla was sitting on a lounge chair reading from the library.

"What are you laughing so hard about?"

I proceeded to tell her everything of the events that arose on the Bridge. We were serious until I told her what I did to our father. She laughed so hard she had to go to the bathroom to relieve herself.

I relaxed as I put Lynn onto the floor with a blanket under her. I thought at first she would just lay there while I went to get something to drink. I watched her as I was walking to the food synthesizer. I was amazed as she crawled by herself to follow me. Well it's time to baby-proof I thought to myself. Next will be standing and then walking!

"Computer, immediate, must ensure safety of baby, this stateroom."

"Done, noted to memory."

"What's going on Sis?"

"Guess who's starting to crawl?"

"You're kidding? That's great! She'll be walking soon."

"I'll remember that auntie in a few weeks. I just told the computer to baby-proof the stateroom. I've noticed that she wants more solid food then her normal breast milk during the past few days."

"That's a good sign she is a growing girl and a sweetie. Just like my sister Arlene."

"Doctor Carson would like to speak to the Queen." The computer said.

"Go ahead computer."

"Your Highness?"

"Yes doctor, what are the results please, if you have them."

"Yes I have, it's just as we thought the suicide gene as it has been called has mutated rewriting their bodies genetic coding to be an exact replica of ours. In essence all those that have been under therapy are exactly like us or soon will be. What the exact trigger was, I don't know. I have to do more research on that matter."

"I think you better share this information with the rest of the Armada."

"I was planning on asking you if it was acceptable for me to do just that. Thanks and I will contact the other ships, to have everyone monitored."

"One further thing, for your information and please tell my husband that our daughter has now hit the crawling stage of her development."

"Why that's great! She sure is growing fast, I'll tell him. Bring her in to see me. She's due for a check up and so is her mother." Dr. Carson said before disconnecting.

"Well, what do we do now? How do you tell these people that we may be the cause of their mutations?" I asked Karla after telling the computer to disconnect.

"They do have the right to know the facts. What I would do is possibly pair them off with us. They will have to have training to control themselves just as you did.

Remember you did the right thing by allowing the gene therapy. Because of it the people of Earth will live longer, be more productive and less sickly then they have ever been. So there are drawbacks, so what? We've learned to live with them so will they."

"So will they what?" Gordon said as he entered the stateroom with Li Wei, Jake and Alexei.

Karla told them her idea of pairing those of Earth and those of the Armada that had been mutated. They had to be trained, so what better teachers than those that have gone through the mutation.

"I don't mind saying that I was scared shitless. If it wasn't for Margie I don't know what I would have done. I agree with Karla and her logic." Jake said.

"I too agree with Karla. I haven't gone as far as Jake yet but I know it is inevitable." Li Wei said.

"I also agree, maybe tomorrow I will be a woman. It sounds like fun." Alexei said.

"Alexei you better be beautiful. There aren't any paper bags or enough vodka on this ship to hide that ugly face of yours now." Jake said laughing.

"Just remember one thing you two, you start playing around like that and you'll be the ones that become pregnant. Do you know that might be fun to watch? Oh I can just see these guys in the Delivery Room " Li Wei said laughing.

"Shit Alexei, she's right! I forgot all about that, but I'll admit it was fun and from a different prospective." Jake said.

"Alexei you just come over and see me. I'll show you how to have fun." Karla said with an evil grin.

"Karla!" I said in astonishment. I had never heard her speak like that.

"What? I'm human and a woman. I have needs too!" She said nonchalantly and flirtatiously.

"Do you have to be so blatant in your propositions?"

"Well…Ummmm…… Yes I do."

"Okay I was curious, have fun and don't wear Alexei out." I said laughing.

Poor Alexei, he has no idea what he was about to get involved with. This was going to be debauchery to the umpteenth degree. If he was walking bowlegged I, no all of us would know what that had been doing.

Poor Lynn in the meantime started to cry. I picked her up into my arms. She started to fall asleep immediately.

"Here Sis, give her to me. I'll put her down in her bed." Karla said as she took Lynn from my arms and went to the nursery followed closely by Alexei. Gee, I think he's interested in Karla!

"Visitors are at the door."

"Allow."

As the door slid silently again Irene, Al, Eve and Paul entered.

"Where's Karla, Sis?" Irene asked.

"With Lynn and Alexei in the nursery."

"Alexei?" Paul said.

"It's going to be a new policy that Father and Mother will have to initiate. To pair the people from Earth with those of the Armada." Gordon said.

"Many of us were born with the gifts we have and have learned from an early age to control and not abuse them. Now we found out that many from Earth now share those same identical gifts. They too must be trained, So, the logical way to go is to pair them with those on the Armada." Gordon said.

"Okay Al, what are your thoughts?" I asked.

"I really can't say yet. Irene, Paul and Eve have prepared me somewhat. I've seen Irene use some of her gifts as you call them, when she didn't think I didn't notice. In some respects I feel that I have been blessed and other aspects I feel I've been cursed." Al said sadly.

"Why? It's not a curse, it can be beneficial to you and those around you. In Arlene's case she almost killed us with that temper of hers, I'm just thankful she learned to control it." Eve said with a smile.

"I think a demonstration is in order. Irene, Paul and Eve go into our bedroom, please." I said.

I tapped on the walls of Irene, Paul and Eve, 'I want you to chose, which of you to shape shift into. Go into my wardrobe and pick out similar outfits to wear. Since Irene is closer to my body mass I think she would be appropriate for the demonstration. And Paul please do this without any complaints, it will only be for a short time.'

We talked for several minutes when Karla and Alexei came back from tending to Lynn. They had said that Lynn had gone right to sleep.

"We're ready now." Irene said.

"Okay come on out."

When all three came from the bedroom all I heard was the gigantic intake of breaths from the people in the room. All three women had the same hair length, coloring and eyes along with the attributes of my sister with their makeup applied the same. Somehow they had found shorts, tops and foundation garments that were basically the same. They each wore summer lightweight, sandals that I myself liked to wear when I wasn't in the uniform of the Armada. I myself had a difficult time in choosing which was the real Irene.

"Swiety Gowno! Triplets!" Alexei said astonished and nodding his head in disbelief.

"If that means holy shit Alexei I agree." Jake said getting up to look at all the women before him.

"They look the same to me. Right down to the birthmark behind Irene's ear." Al said looking them all over.

"Are you saying that this is one of the gifts, Arlene?" Li Wei said.

"As I told you, and Jake knows first hand by experience, we and now you, have that ability. We can also increase or decrease our ages at will. This was one of the reasons we were never discovered on Earth." Gordon said.

"Paul, is the internal plumbing the same as any woman's? I mean is it fully functional? Can you really conceive and give birth?" Li Wei asked

My sister and her identicals giggled together saying, "Sure and if you became male it would be the same. Yes, Paul can become pregnant and give birth as we told you before."

Well the time of truth has again risen. I told them all about my past life and how Gordon and I had conceived Lynn and how he had birthed her. We also told them all of the attempted murder of Lynn and myself. If we were to be a team we could not have any secrets the truth had to be known by those in the room. The understanding that was exhibited was a step in the right direction. The support was unimaginable.

"Now that we have cleared the air a bit. I need some water." I said as the carafe of water slowly rose from the counter near the food synthesizer. I purposely took my time and let it slowly come my glass that was on the table. I filled the glass and had the carafe circle the room to the amazement of the people from Earth. Then I sent the carafe to its original place.

"I know that levitation will be another gift, right."

"Yes Jake and so will this, please watch Gordon."

Gordon stood and slowly dematerialized before their eyes. I thought that they were all going to run away at first. They all found their courage and stayed.

"Foi mâte! He is gone!" Alexei said.

"Alexei keep it up using those nasty words and I have a bar of soap waiting for your mouth." Jake said laughing to break the fear and tension in the room.

"Okay Gordon, we've proved our point." I said as Gordon materialized.

"These are some of the gifts that we think you will all have. Now you see the need to control these gifts. If not, the consequences could be disastrous both to you and for us." I said.

"Okay you three, go back into the bedroom and change, please. I really love Irene but I don't think I have the stamina to make love to three of you." Al said.

We all spoke to each other as our triplets assumed their normal appearances back in our bedroom. As we spoke I sensed the fear that they all had to varying degrees. We tried to lessen those fears and did so somewhat but the fear was still evident.

"Hey Sis, do you mind if I borrow these clothes. I promise I'll bring them back clean." Irene yelled from the bedroom. What could I say? That was my sister and sisters share everything except men.

Chapter Forty-three:

Sitting together as a group seemed to lessen the fears of the new mutants. I don't mind saying that the talk we had to lessen my fears too and gave me more self-confidence. I knew exactly how all of them felt emotionally. It was needed to assure them that we were there to help them all. The support for them was always there if they needed it.

I needed to go to the bathroom and I asked both Karla and Irene to accompany me there. There was one person I was worried about that had not been there and that person was Carmen.

As I prepared myself to use the commode to relieve the pressure on my bladder I told them my concerns.

"Don't worry we'll help her adjust, Sis." Irene said.

"Besides her boyfriend will help too." Karla said.

"Boyfriend? What boyfriend?"

"Didn't you know? She's hot and heavy with Phillip, another chef. At first it was only to share recipes. The next thing we knew they were both stirring the pot together." Karla said.

"Well that explains a great deal of why the privacy mode was on so much lately."

"That pot has to be shaking, because it isn't stirring." Irene said laughing.

My thoughts were that Carmen needed a socially active life. This companionship was good for her. We humans as a species need that companionship whether it is sexual or platonic. We are socially active creatures that must interact with others of our species.

Going back to the lounge area, I saw my mother and Tommy had arrived.

"Tommy, when we attend these up and coming meetings you are to be present." I said.

"Mother, I want our Task Group on alert at all times. That includes Amanda's and Felicia's Ships. As for us on the ground I want every contingency that can be thought of put into place."

"You're expecting trouble aren't you?" Mother asked.

"Not really but we have to be prepared for any eventuality." Gordon said.

"Eve, Paul, Irene and Al, you are to be with us at all times. Irene and Eve will be disguised as ladies in waiting for me. Al and Paul you are to be with Gordon at all times as Aides de Camp." I said.

"If that's the case then no one should eat or drink anything on the planet surface or to take possession of any gifts. It would be advisable to wear our flight suits and keep our gloves on along with our helmets." Paul said.

We all agreed on that matter. If there was to be a problem we wanted to be prepared. The flight suit would protect us from energy based weapons while the gloves would protect us from any type of contact poison that could permeate the skin. The helmet would of course protect our faces, skulls and neck too from injury. We had all decided that we would not partake of any food or drink while on the planet surface as a precaution. We would only eat or drink onboard our ships, which would always have several crewmembers as security and electronic surveillance.

“Mother, I would like all the Mother Ships to maintain a vigil on the conditions of the crews that go down to the surface. Have Doctor Carson monitor everyone that goes down also. I know that the technology exits to alter the outward appearance of a being but I don’t think the DNA can be totally changed. Have our science and xenobiology teams to also monitor all that do attend this conference.”

“Dear you are expecting trouble, we could have the conference meetings here.”

“That would be giving those beings too much access up here. We’ll play their game first but with and by our rules. There is also a probability the Krea’ckh have saboteurs amongst the delegates, remember we had a warning that we do have to take seriously.” I said.

“If the Gor’tha find out there could be some serious complications.” Mother said.

“We agree, that’s why we have to find these friends of the Krea’ckh first without the use of our gifts. I think that Doctor Carson and his teams are the key to this situation.” Gordon said.

After that point was brought home, I made my polite excuses and went to lie down. As I lay in bed after I left, I thought of the new life that was growing within me. I was concerned that I might have to decrease the amount of public appearances to maintain an aura of safety. This made me sad as I felt I was shirking my duties as the queen. I know that the people of the Armada would understand, as would the people of Earth. Due to the other species that were not humanoid, it would be a difficult challenge to overcome. Those differences could be substantial.

I finally managed to fall asleep with no dreams. I was awakened by the sound of Gordon's voice softly urging me back to the realities I had to face.

"Hi Sweetheart, I was asked to wake you by the powers on the Bridge." Gordon said softly as he leaned toward me, then kissing me.

"Why? What's wrong now?"

“We’ll be coming out of the Wormhole Transit in about fifteen minutes. We’ll be in geosynchronous orbit in thirty minutes. My mother and Felicia are planetside waiting for us. They said that most of the delegations have arrived.”

“Okay let me go take a shower and change my clothes. How long have I been asleep?”

“Fourteen hours.”

“Fourteen hours! Why did you let me sleep so long? Who took care of Lynn? How did I get into my nightgown?”

“First of all you needed the sleep and your mother said to let you sleep. Secondly, All of the family helped with Lynn. Thirdly, I put you into your nightgown.”

“I’m sorry, I really didn’t mean to sleep this long. Have you showered yet or ate?”

“Showered yes, ate no. I’ll wait for you. Carmen brought you breakfast and Lynn is still sleeping. Sheila said she would be with Lynn while we are gone. Li Wei, Jake and Alexei Also the landing party has Security Forces onboard the Escort Ships with their Crews that are waiting. My father and Jerome will be the Barge Crew. Our personal security Eve, Paul, Irene, and Al are ready and waiting. New weapons have been issued to all the security personnel.”

“What about Doctor Carson?”

“He’s waiting too on the Barge, sorry I forgot to add him.”

Since he was so close to me I pulled him down and kissed him with a fervent passion that he seemed to enjoy. My thoughts where to ravage him on the spot and to let everyone wait. I loved him so tremendously I didn’t want to release him. He was finally the one to break our kiss. I was ready! I wanted him in me so much I ached with anticipation for our throes of passion.

“Darling please go take your shower and get dressed. We’ll have plenty of time for our romance once we return.” Gordon said as he helped me from the bed.

As I stood up I reached around his neck and pulled him down to me. I once again kissed him with all the fiery passion I had building up within me. Oh yes I wanted him! I wanted him now!

Before we knew it we were in bed together. I had gotten my way! Sure we both had responsibilities but at the moment this came first. I’d like to meet those fools that say women are the weaker sex, Phooey on their beliefs. I lured my husband back to my boudoir and we both had our way with each other. At least if there was trouble down on the planet and I died, I would know I had performed my wifely duties to my husband.

What the hell am I saying? I have three babies growing inside of me; I have my responsibilities to them, Lynn my daughter, my husband Gordon, our family, the Armada and to Earth. I planned to be around for many, many years and be the proverbial pain in the ass I always have been.

We had concluded our coitus without the interruptus by our ever-watchful and intrusive computer. I had that warm, womanly and glowing feeling throughout my body. I was happy to say the least, having orgasm after multiple orgasm. I knew that I was the one that had seduced Gordon but I didn’t care. I received what I had justly deserved. Did I deserve what I had received you ask, Oh Yes! I never knew or did he, that I could reach such high notes on the musical scale with such intensity. To say the least it was impressive.

My afterglow was still with me as I went into the shower to join Gordon. Did we make Love again? Well……………Okay………… Well………… yes we did! I can’t wait to try making Love in the bath next time. We had a slight problem in the shower as we made Love. That problem stemmed from the echoes that rebounded from the walls from my mouth. I was so loud and vocal Gordon had to place a hand over my mouth. It could have been worse with him sticking a dirty, rolled up sock in my mouth. Yeech! What we women go through for just a little bit of pleasure.

We both had managed to get dressed in our flight suits, and eat breakfast without him, I or the both of us, becoming the breakfast menu.

I went back to the bedroom and straightened up the mess we had made. I applied my makeup, braided my hair and then checked on Lynn in her room. She was still asleep so I gave her a kiss and walked silently out to the lounge area to wait for Sheila.

I had walked into the lounge area and saw that Sheila was waiting for me.

“Have a good sleep, Sis?” Sheila asked with a smile.

“Gordon, you told!” I exclaimed as I tickled his ribcage.

“Don’t pick on him. You were tired and needed the rest. Besides, you’re carrying my growing nieces or nephews in you.”

“Yeah, don’t pick on me. We’d better get to the Hanger Bay. They’re waiting for us. I could tell them you were the cause of us being late. Buy the way put this on. ” Gordon smiled as he handed me the crown he had made for me.

I thought awhile as I put the crown on before I spoke saying, “I could tell you you’re cut off for a month but I would be suffering too. I know I could change you into a woman and you get pregnant again, but then I would have probably four more children to nurse beside Lynn. Damn, no matter what I say or could do, everything comes back to me.

Okay, I have an idea, let’s forget about this meeting and go back to bed. We could have a little more fun.”

All Gordon could do was to smile and then turn red from the embarrassment while Sheila laughed all the harder.

I took Gordon’s arm and pulled him through the door, waving good-bye to my sister.

“You sure know how to push all the right buttons, don’t you?” Gordon said.

“Yes I do indeed, honey. You know what?”

“What?”

“I love you so very much.” I said stopping as I grabbed his ears pulling him down to me so I could kiss him.

We stayed like that for moments in a tight embraced. When we separated, I was almost forcibly dragged toward the Hanger Bay.

Entering the Hanger Bay and walking to our ship there was a flurry of activity. People and Ships were going through routine pre flight checks to insure that safety standards were met satisfactorily. If these checks were not performed the central computer would notify Jerome and Daniel. Between Jerome and Daniel there would be hell to pay, there was no such thing as a marginal or a non-functioning system in deep space. Each ship crewmember knew that there was always the potential for death, those risks were acceptable to them but to lessen those risks the flight suits, together with other safety precautions came into being.

On entering our ship we were greeted by my father in law, Daniel. The interior was darkened except for the blue lighting.

“Everyone is onboard, what took you two so long? We’ve been waiting. Are you alright Arlene?”

“Dad we’re here, that’s all that counts. Have Jerome notify the Bridge we’re ready for launch. Arlene is fine Dad.”

Daniel gave us both our helmets and walked with us to our stateroom. Everyone was there from Doctor Carson, our Earth Delegation to our Security Chiefs.

Irene took her eyes from the CompPad saying, “What took you two so long? Oh My Gosh, you two were doing it!”

“Irene, no we weren’t. Besides it’s none of your business.”

“Arlene, yes you did and that is the end of it.”

Shit! Everyone knew! Well, I really don’t care if they knew or not. What we did was normal for all couples to do. I didn’t feel as if I was responsible to give an explanation to our actions as to what Gordon and I had done. By the look on my face Irene had received my message I was conveying to her. The subject matter was dropped immediately.

“Your Majesty, High Elder Amanda has sent the following message. The Gor’tha has agreed to ally themselves to the cause. They are really angry about the loss of those crewmembers and their ships. They have also recruited other worlds to join this cause.

As it stands the count is over twenty thousand different worlds that have decided to join this alliance. Amanda said there are more worlds and star systems coming each hour as the messages and couriers are sent out. She also sends her love to everyone including Daniel. She also said to take good care of her grandbabies.” Eve said smiling.

“These Krea’ckh must have really angered these people?” Li Wei said.

“I looked into the database the last entry into it was over one hundred years ago about the Krea’ckh. I could barely read the originals logs. The Armada stopped for supplies in a Solar System over one hundred billion light years from Earth’s Solar System, Sol. The planet the Armada stopped at is a humanoid race called the Treaak. It is a planet four times the size of the Earth. The population was estimated at close to a trillion beings.

Their technology is beyond ours. They have learned to coincide with nature as they realized that early on that to disrupt the ecology meant their demise.

They too are an exploring planet and had colonized many planets in theirs and other solar systems. It was in the furthest system that had a colony that they had encountered the Krea’ckh. Now keep in mind that these people are explorers and not a militaristic planet.

They had several trading ships, seven to be exact, that had reported seeing the Krea’ckh devour several planets. The ships attempted to make a contact. The Krea’ckh destroyed five of those seven ships that had several thousand crewmembers and families onboard them. The remaining ships barely managed to get away to their homeworld. Those ships had reported that the Krea’ckh told them to go away or to be destroyed. The Captains stated that they were but trader explorers with no military weapons but for self-defense. I do know that those traders had traded with your homeworld when it existed and what they told the Krea’ckh was the truth. The Krea’ckh tore those five vessels apart, digesting them into their own ship.

The ruling Councils of their homeworld sent a thousand military ships to do battle with the Krea’ckh, less than two hundred returned to their planet. The Krea’ckh still must have been hurt as they did not try to follow and kill that planet. It is a possibility that Treaak may have gained the respect of the Krea’ckh, though I doubt it.” Li Wei had said with great emotion in her voice.

“Li Wei, who wrote that Logged entry?” I asked.

“I believe it said Iris and Amanda.”

“That’s interesting, so this Treaak know about us. I wonder if they know our strength?” I said to no one in particular.

“The answer is no to that question, dear. They went to the Treaak homeworld in two Scout Ships when they made First Contact. That is the normal procedure for us, we decided that most civilizations had to grow on their own and in their own way.” Daniel said.

“That’s like the television show that was created by Gene Roddenberry. They had what was called the “Prime Directive”, it was a non-interference law that said to observe but to never interfere.” Jake said.

“Well we had that too Jake, until Arlene and Gordon decided to disclose ourselves to you on Earth. We felt and still feel that the Krea’ckh are a danger to all the planets and stars. They must be stopped at any cost!” Eve said.

“We still believe in that non-interference policy. There are planets that are still in their evolutionary infancy stages. Those planets are more savage than any human can imagine. Those that will be attending this meeting are all seasoned space travelers, we all have a code of conduct. Each of these civilizations have beyond light travel capabilities but share their technologies or advancements.” Paul added.

“This is a situation where all of those civilizations must band together to defeat a common threat. We must do this to preserve the peace of the cosmos. We have lost the need for avarice; sloth or jealously, we are all rich beyond our wildest dreams. We share with all as they do and ask for nothing in return." Daniel said.

“Look everyone, we do understand what each of you have said. But if there is a decision to be made that concerns the Earth there are two ways I can go. The first way is to make the decision without a quorum vote by the General Assembly of United Nations and then suffer the consequences when I get back to Earth. The second way is for me to convene the General Assembly in emergency session through your communications network and call for a vote.

The thing is, that our technology is not even a fraction of yours, I couldn’t even say if the materials you need could come from Earth. We have supplied some manpower, but these magnificent ships are yours, although, you have trained many of our people.” Li Wei said.

“Li Wei, you have the backing of the largest nations on Earth. Whatever you decide, the other countries will follow. As far as raw materials go, that Solar system has more than you think, we know as we’ve been using those resources for decades. You do what you feel is the right thing to do. Follow you heart in any decisions you make, the Earth will support you without question.” I said.

“Besides, you have us, to sway them all to make the right decisions.” Gordon said.

We talked about the coming meet. Li Wei knew that we spoke the truth, the nations of Earth would abide by all decisions she would make. If necessary we would see to it by persuasion that they would support those decisions.

Chapter Forty-four:

Jerome had notified us that we would be landing shortly. The atmosphere and gravity of the planet was similar to Earth. Our Task Group was prepared! Our Scout Ships took position allowing our security personnel to disembark from the Destroyers.

To the casual observer our ships and security forces would look like an invasion force but our hosts and we knew better. The Ad’lph had been advised to the security situation by Amanda, they agreed that the precautions were welcomed. The one clause was that if the informant was captured that that being was to be turned over to them. That being was to be made as an example so others would have second thoughts of betrayal. I shuddered as I thought of that being’s fate, the loss of its bodily fluids, just as a spider on Earth would suck the life from another insect trapped in a web.

Jerome advised us that all was in readiness. It was decided by consensual vote that Gordon and I would be the last to depart the ship.

“Eve please make sure that if identified that, our enemy spies are only stunned into unconsciousness and not killed. They have to be interrogated first then given over to the Ad’lph. We must follow their request.” I said.

Eve nodded her head slightly to acknowledge what I had said. My beliefs in the sanctity of life, any life made me feel morose on the inside. I felt as if I was betraying my newfound values. This internal and mental conflict was going to test my abilities to lead our people, the Urh’natau in the coming days.

“Arlene, be careful as you go down the ramp. The Barge is in hover due to the unevenness of the land contours.” Jerome said.

“Thanks for telling me Jerome. I will be careful.” I said as I walked to the hatchway.

Gordon was waiting at the ramp for me. I immediately attached myself firmly to his arm. This was done partly for stability in walking but also out of fear, due to the unknown. Sorry but this was my first of many First Contact situations to beings I never knew existed. Some of these beings would be humanoid and many would not be such as the Ad’lph.

As we came down the ramp from the ship, I noticed that the humidity was substantially higher. The climate was more of the Rain Forest or Tropical climes that were found on Earth. Thanks to our flight Suits I was very comfortable and not feeling the obtrusive heat or humidity.

The visual impact of this world was that of an Earth impressionistic artist that was sight impaired. There were colors that seemed to run together that should not have been, blending into unlikely shades of its plant life. I noticed in the distance there were live volcanoes spewing their smoke, ash and embers into the skies. The smell of sulfur hung heavily in the air but the air was still breathable. The sky was tinged a violet that held a red sun and yellow clouds.

When I brought my eyes back to the area around us I saw my first Ad’lph and what a sight it was. The being was similar to Earth’s Tarantula species with its black fine hairs and all. This spider stood at least six feet tall but had an hourglass on the back and stood on its eight legs gracefully. When I saw that hourglass my mind immediately thought of the variety of arachnid called the Black Widow and how they devoured their mates after mating. Next to the Ad’lph was my mother in law, Amanda, perhaps there were similarities there.

“Welcome to the homeworld of the Ad’lph. All is prepared for you in the reception area. I am Tokrak, leader of the clan of Pisrah the civilized ones.” The arachnid said in the style of Earth English.

“We thank you for this opportunity for allowing us to visit your homeworld. We have read the journals from those of the Urh’natau that have traveled here before.” I said smiling.

“That is true your species has been here before and Amanda was one of the visitors. We are pleased to once again see her here. She and Daniel were the ones that helped to return the peace to this planet along with those that had stayed.

It was a time of civil unrest amongst our various clans. We became uncivilized and let the ways of science lapse. Due to Amanda and Daniel they both taught us the ways of peace and to further the goals of science that we had forgotten.

We are forever in your debt. We do not forget our friends and we are powerful enemies to those that will harm our friends.

Again we welcome you Arlene and Gordon Queen and King of the Urh’natau. We welcome the people of the planet Earth, Fong Li Wei, Jake Filipowski and Alexei Abramovich.

Come now, our assemblage awaits to hear you.”

We all were preparing to walk to the reception area when Daniel came running from the Barge with a CompPad in his hand.

“Your Majesties, Please wait a moment.” Daniel said as he handed the CompPad to me.

As I read the message from Doctor Carson Daniel greeted the Ad'lph next to Amanda and kissed Amanda.

Having run the DNA Scans of the delegates, all but one group does not match the scans in our data banks.

It appears that the DNA is similar but there are too many anomalies. Even with the evolutionary process of all species it appears that this DNA was manipulated.

Looking at the reconstruction of that delegation it is the Krea’ckh disguised as Mnuunks a humanoid species.

I passed the CompPad to our entire group allowing them to see the results. The CompPad was then handed over to Amanda and Tokrak.

“Your suspicions were just. The scientific evidence is irrefutable! It would be wise for us to handle the apprehension of these criminals to avoid the panic.

Once they have been apprehended you may debrief them for their information. We ask that they may not be harmed so they may know our justice.”

“Tokrak, we do agree with your terms. Be wary of those spies as they may be walking armaments. Our security personnel will help if you wish.” I said.

“That is not necessary, as we speak our security squads have determined that they are not a threat. They carry no armaments or biologics. They are now in custody.

Your security can debrief our spies once we get to the reception area. I will have our chief of security take them to where the spies are being held.”

“That is suitable and we thank you.” I said as I gazed toward Eve and Paul.

I knew that Tokrak was telepathic by the reports that I read of the First Contact report. That was a major reason I did not use my abilities to the others. If telepaths were gauged on a level from one to one hundred with one being the weakest, I would register at one million. That was what Doctor Carson had told me stating I was the strongest telepath he had ever seen in his career as the Armada medical officer. Most of the Armada people registered in the high nineties on that scale. It was an ability that I had to control closely.

I have managed to control my empathic and telepathic gifts somewhat but I was concerned that I could damage anyone of these beings or quite possibly injure them severely, maybe to the point of killing them. I had made a decision on my own not to use my telepathics before leaving Mother One.

Walking down the crystalline path from the greeting place where our ship had landed, to the reception area I was amazed to see a gigantic diamond shaped enclosure that sparkled in the daylight sun, its beauty was magnificent. It was an architectural engineering marvel, truly a work of art worthy to be gazed upon. The symmetry lines were gorgeous in this peaceful setting.

Continuing to get closer to the building I noticed that the diamond shaped building was not made of materials that I had originally thought of. It was made of the webbing materials that arachnids use to entrap their prey into. I wasn’t worried in the least as to our safety.

“I will leave you now and take your security team to our prisoners. Vealak my aide will escort you inside to be with the other delegations.” Tokrak said.

“We once again thank you for all the courtesies you have extended to us Tokrak. Please listen to what will be said by the delegates, I feel that your input and wisdom will be needed many times in the future.”

“Amanda you were correct, your daughter in law is truly ambassadorial material. She has done your planet and people proud in her gentleness. May the Great One watch over you all.

People of Earth, once again our greetings to you. You have been welcomed into the Alliance of Galaxies. Soon you will all be well traveled amongst us. These beings that are gathered wish to help you, they will not desert you in your time of need. ”

“Tokrak, we thank you and we hope to see you again.” Li Wei said adding a bow to our host.

A smaller arachnid arrived that had the same markings as Tokrak. We later found out that Vealak was one of the many thousands of children that Tokrak had, had.

“Welcome travelers to our homeworld. Please come with me. Do not be fearful of these beings, they are here to for the same reasons as you, peace.” Vealak said.

We followed our host into the web made building. Was I scared? You had to be a fool not to be scared. I picked up immediately the emotions of the beings that had gathered. Those emotions went from fear to fearlessness, trust to distrust.

Slowly we made our way to the front of the delegations eventually to be led to a stage where we were assigned sitting at a very large table. The multitude of language and voices was very evident until we had all been seated, and then there was silence.

“They are ready Arlene. Stay seated to show respect to them all. The computer will take care of the vocal translations.” Amanda whispered to me.

I at once did a surprising thing by removing my helmet. This motion was done also by our complete group. I know I broke the security rules that we spoke about, but I needed to show trust to this gathering of delegates.

“Gentle Beings,” I began saying, “I am Arlene, Queen of the Urh’natau, we bid you all blessings and thank you for making this journey.

At this table are representatives of the planet Earth as well as my husband King Gordon, and High Elder Amanda that many of you know.

The representatives from Earth are Fong Li Wei, Secretary General of the United Nations of Earth; Admiral Jake Filipowski of the United Nations Earth Defense Forces and his Aide Sub Commander Alexei Abramovich.

Many of you know that our planet Urh’natau was destroyed by our sun that exploded. We have been beings without a homeworld until we found Earth. Until recently we all had been in hiding and have followed the non-interference policy of the Alliance.

Many of our people have joined into relationships with the Earth beings; many of us were born on Earth such as King Gordon, our daughter and myself. I am also the direct descendent of Aimaila who was my mother. Yes gentile beings, I do look as she did and no, I am not a clone of her. It was done through her egg and the King’s sperm introduced into to her sister’s body to give me life and bring hope to the Urh’natau people.

On the day of our ascendancy to the throne it was disclosed the murderous way of the Krea’ckh and their piloted ship that destroys planets, inhabited or not.

We saw the destruction of the Gor’tha ships through our sensors and mourn their loses but celebrate their Ship's Crews lives. We, the Urh’natau were placed at a disadvantage with the Gor’tha as we could do nothing to help them.

We have been tracking the Krea’ckh and have seen the eventual course as heading for the planet Earth. Granted the Earthers have made technological strides but there is no possibility they could adequately defend the Earth from the Krea’ckh. I overruled our High Council of Elders, deciding to reveal the Urh’natau people to the Earth. I take the responsibility for overturning the non-interference policy of the Alliance.

We, the Urh’natau have shared with the entire planet our technology just as all of you have shared with us. Now is the time that we join together once again to end this reign of intergalactic piracy, terror and murder. We cannot do this alone as the Gor’tha have learned, we therefore ask humbly for the Alliance to help and to send a message to others that arrogance and the infringement of the rights of all beings will not be tolerated.”

Once again I saw that many of the various beings gather in this arena seemed to be speaking among themselves. My thoughts were that help would not be coming. In effect I did break the non-interference policy of this galactic alliance.

“Gentile Beings,” Li Wei said, “You have heard Arlene speak the truth to all of you. The planet Earth was on the verge of its own destruction from various causes. It was the Urh’natau people that saved it. We are deeply indebted to them for the peace we now have. Due to their caring nature, diseases have been cured or eradicated forever. We have learned to live with our environment and to clean what we have destroyed. We too thank you for the gifts you have shared with them and with the people of Earth.

As Arlene has said our long sought after peace will be breached shortly by those that wish to destroy anything in their path.” Li Wei said.

“Arlene and Gordon we welcome you and your people once again back into the Alliance. We welcome those from Earth and invite you into the Galactic Alliance membership.

I am Paarth that speaks from the planet Scchoou. I am Premier Council Elder of the Alliance, advisor to the High Premiers.

Decisions had been made prior to your arrival as to what is to be done with the Krea’ckh.

We have watched your adopted planet evolve into what it is now. We have seen it grow and with the Alliance and the Urh’natau, we see that there have been many changes in thought and desire. The Alliance feels that Earth is a planet that is worth saving and so are the beings that inhabit it.

As we speak five hundred starships of your count are enroute to the Armada as you call it. In those ships are technicians and supplies to refit your Mother Ships and to help Earth. Additional planetside bases will be built to house additional starships to protect the Solar System Sol from any threat. Teams have been sent, to use the Earther phrase loosely, to Terra Form Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Pluto and your moon for those bases and habitation.

By decree of the Alliance, a fleet of three thousand ships are being readied to ensure that peace will be throughout the galaxies once again.”

I was stunned to say the least! I took Gordon’s hand into my hand and held it tightly. This was so much more then what we had asked for. Never again would the Urh’natau feel alone again.

“Arlene and Gordon, we have watched you both as you have grown into the beings you have become. You have done the memories of the former queen and king very well. They are smiling now at you and send their blessings. Granted you had shattered the non-interference policy of the Alliance. You have both shown great strength and fortitude in your endeavors. You have shown to us that you have the abilities to be leaders, no, great leaders, Still, there must be a punishment for breaking our Directives, which we have not decided upon.

We now ask for you to take your rightful places as High Premiers of the Elders Council of the Galactic Alliance just as your mother, Queen Aimaila and her consort had done in the past.

In the history of the Alliance, Queen Aimaila of Urh’natau was one of the founding members to help restore the peace among us. Our galaxies flourished after eons of petty wars, piracy, and the loss of life. We know too of the impending births of the children you now carry. We will be there for you as you bring them into the galaxies. Will you accept Arlene and Gordon of Urh’natau?”

I was stunned to say the least. I must have been squeezing Gordon’s hand too tightly when I heard him gasp for breath. Amanda brought me back from the shock by kicking me and then a pinch on the thigh. I looked at Gordon briefly as he nodded his assent.

“Gentile Beings, We, Gordon and I, do accept the responsibilities as High Premiers of the Galactic Alliance.”

“Fong Li Wei, Jake Filipowski and Alexei Abramovich, does Earth accept membership into the Galactic Alliance?”

There was absolute silence from those delegates until in unison all three persons from Earth said, “ Earth does accept the terms of membership into the Galactic Alliance.”

What happened next was a blur to my memory. I saw perhaps thirty beings arise that could not even be described, donning purple and red robes. One of those beings was my brother, Tommy. It was then that I knew that he was the one telling everyone about Gordon and me. But what the hell was he doing on the Galactic Alliance High Council? I didn’t even realize he was missing from our entourage. I guess I had better be more observant from now on.

Slowly those thirty beings made their way toward us eventually making their way to the raised platform we were at. The beings eventually encircled the table with Tommy standing in the center in front of Gordon and me. I was so proud of my brother as he stood before us but a bit peeved that he didn't tell me of his status with the Alliance.

“As High Councilor, I am about to give you your oath of office, once more it is asked if you will accept this office willingly. The duties will be difficult, but you have proved to the Alliance that you are worthy to assume these duties. I ask again, do you accept these duties?”

“We do.” Gordon and I said.

I was still a bit confused as to what our duties would be. I certainly hoped that a manual came with this additional job. At least I had Gordon at my side.

“The Galaxy Alliance is much like the United Nations of Earth. Our powers extend to diffuse any hostile altercations by any beings in order to bring peace once again.

The Alliance serves all, not just planetary governments. We protect the lives and the well being of all in each galaxy. If the Galactic Laws are broken our peacekeepers become peace officers to bring those to justice that violate interstellar agreements. The Alliance has recognized the Urh’natau as the Alliance peacekeepers to protect the Rights of all Beings are paramount.

Do You Arlene and Gordon agree with this philosophy of the Galactic Alliance?”

“Yes we believe.”

“Elders of the High Council do you accept Gordon and Arlene as High Premiers of the Galactic Alliance?”

“Yes” was the only word that was said in unison by those around us.

“Very well, you have been accepted by the Elders High Council. Their word is final to this ceremony. Be fair, honest and the peace kept throughout the Galaxies.

Accept the symbols of your office. The robes are the colors white and red. White is the symbol for the peace you will uphold and red is the symbol for the justice you will dispense. Will the Urh’natau follow?”

“They will.” Gordon and I said in unison.

“Very Well.” Tommy said and turned to the assemblage saying, “Members of the Galactic Alliance, I present to you High Premiers Gordon and Arlene, King and Queen of the Urh’natau people.”

From the silence in the conference room we were in, the assemblage rose to a deafening roar showing their approval.

Once the noise had diminished Tommy once again began by saying, “Ambassadors of the Planet Earth of the solar system Sol do you accept the bylaws and the governing laws of the Galactic Alliance? Will the Earth accept all gentle beings of this assemblage to share their trade and technology with the Galactic Alliance?”

“The Earth will.” Li Wei, Jake and Alexei said.

“Will the Earth assist the Urh’natau and the Galactic Alliance to quell unrest, resolve disputes, and to abhor as well as obliterate piracy and injustices throughout the universe as we now know it?”

After much thought the trio from Earth answered, “The Earth will.”

“Be welcomed, to the Galactic Alliance gentle beings of the planet Earth.”

Once again the roar of approval was evident throughout the chamber. The High Council took us all from the platform into the awaiting throng of the assembled beings to be greeted individually.

I felt a light tapping at my privacy wall. Letting it down the words came into my head from Jake. 'Sorry, but if those words mean what I think, the Earth just became the Law Enforcement arm of the universe, am I correct in that assumption?'

I looked about to Gordon, Paarth and Tommy.

“There is more to it then that, Jake. The Earth isn't alone and neither are we in the universe.” Amanda suddenly said from the back of us avoiding the answer to Jake's question.

“I thought that I projected my thoughts to Arlene? Oh well, I still have so much to learn.” Jake said smiling and shaking his head in embarrassment.

“We’ll work on it later. You did well though, surprising me at first with that new ability.” Amanda said as she hugged Jake.

“Well there is a bit more than what it seems that we are getting the same abilities as you have. I still haven’t considered if this is a curse or not.” Jake said.

While Jake was speaking I sent Amanda my thoughts about what had happened to Jake when he found out about his abilities. All she could ask was if he had fun or not. I told her that we told all of them to watch out as that they all could become pregnant. She had that wicked smile of hers and just hummed a simple Earth piece of classical music. I believe it was by Frederic Francois Chopin called the Polonaise

Chapter Forty-five:

“Arlene, Gordon please come with me, we must speak privately.” Paarth said.

We left the assemblage to walk down that crystalline path once again away from the web made building we were inside of. As we walked we spoke.

“We are so pleased that your people have once again returned to the Alliance. The loss of Urh’natau homeworld was devastating and a loss to us all. Your mother and father were beings that will be remembered by us all, for all time. The loss of the people of the planet saddened us, they were fair and just to all, and they kept the Alliance together to be strong.

I am not saying that the High Council didn’t, but they needed to be decisive with one pair in thoughts as Aimaila and her consort were. Arlene as I have said the Alliance has watched you mature into the person you are, just as we have watched you also Gordon. Do not be alarmed Arlene, your past is only known by a very select few of us.

You did well with the Earth beings and to bring them into the Alliance. If this wasn’t done soon we believe that that planet and all those beings may have destroyed themselves into oblivion. As a planet they offer so much to the Alliance, but they are as you and Gordon once were promiscuous children. They will grow as they accept their roles in the Alliance. These beings are very much alike as the Urh’natau are.”

“Paarth, just a moment please, are you telling Gordon and I this was a test?” I said.

“In a manner of speaking, yes it was. Earth was on the threshold of interplanetary exploration without many of the individual territories participating. Earth had to be united with all territories involved. We studied the sociologies of the planet and saw there had to be a uniting factor to bring them all together. The Krea’ckh and the Gor’tha turned into the catalyst for you to be decisive and to bring the planet together as one.” Paarth said.

“Excuse me, but you said that we had violated the non-interference policy. I ask that none of those on our crafts be punished as I was the one that made the decision, not those that obeyed.” I said.

Before Paarth could answer I saw movement in the bushes directly ahead of us along with the briefest of flashes from a shiny object. I somehow felt it was not any of the local animals or inhabitants.

Suddenly, I heard the high pitched resonance that a charging energy weapon would make coming from that area. The energy bolt of that weapon hit me squarely in the center of my chest knocking the wind out of me, causing me to partially pass out as I fell to the ground.

“Everyone get down! We are under attack! Arlene!” Gordon yelled.

The bolts of pure energy streaked near and nearer to us at an astounding rate. It appeared that we were in a crossfire situation. I saw that Eve, Paul, Al and Irene had joined us returning the energy bolt fire back to the bushes from their weapons.

It was then that our Comm Units were activated by several of our scout ships reporting that they too were under a massive air attack by unknown ships. Jerome ordered all of the Cruisers and Destroyers to return fire, our protection was paramount. Myself, I was still trying to catch my breath, lying on the ground in the open.

Recovering, my anger seemed to flow readily throughout my body. I had managed to enclose those around me with a shielding projected internally by my mind. The audacity of these creatures to attack a meeting of the Alliance!

Standing upright once again, planting my feet firmly and spread slightly apart for balance. It appeared that their energy weapons could not penetrate my protective shield as they tried all the harder. For some unknown reason I had raised both of my arms pointing my fingers at the bushes directly ahead of me as one would point a gun. There was a noise as loud as a sonic boom and much louder than the sound the energy weapons made. I felt the energy flow from my hands. One second the bushes where there, the next the area was decimated as if a bomb had exploded. The gloves I wore were in tatters and smoking.

The many bushes in that area seemed to have been ripped apart and shredded by a lawn mower or mulched. My only thoughts returned to when I was in training and what I had done to our gate at our home on Earth in California. I started to recover my normal composure when I saw the energy bolts raining upon us from the sky.

My anger once again built as I felt the energy stream toward my arms, to my hands finally to my fingers. By my senses alone I aimed my fingers directly toward the area the energy bolts came from. I felt the power surge, being released toward the target that was firing at all of us on the ground.

The ship that was firing was shaped like an Earth style cigar and was a cobalt blue in coloring. When the energy surge from my body hit the ship it turned white just as if it were a sun that was ready to nova and explode. In the warships case it imploded upon itself destroying itself and its crew with no debris falling from the skies. It truly was vaporized!

I looked around me at the destruction to the vegetation, which was sizable. The assembly building that we were in seemed to have come out of this foray without a scratch. Many of the Alliance beings came out to see what had happened. I had managed to substantially calm myself down from the adrenaline rush that flowed through my body.

“Arlene are you alright?” Gordon asked.

“I think so. I feel just a bit weak, but otherwise okay.”

Without a moment to spare Gordon called for Dr. Carson to check me out. What I did was stupid I know by putting my unborn children and myself into jeopardy. I knew that I would not hear the end of this from my husband and family. Looking back at the events that unfolded I knew in my heart I did the right thing.

“Is Arlene alright?” Amanda asked worriedly.

“I think so, but I called for Dr. Carson to make sure.” Gordon said.

“This assassination attempt will not go unpunished. The Alliance has just become stronger due to the arrogance of the Krea’ckh. Those members that were neutral or indecisive will declare themselves enemies of the Krea’ckh. Nowhere in the Galaxy will they be able to hide.” Paarth said.

“Paarth, are we sure it was the Krea’ckh that attacked?” I asked.

“That ship that you destroyed was of their design. That design is only used by them. I am sure of it and so will the Alliance.” Paarth said.

As Paarth was speaking Dr. Carson arrived to check me over. The sensors registered and sent all body readings to the computer onboard the Barge and then to the Mother Ship for analysis. Apparently the amount of energy that my body armor and my body took did not harm the babies or myself. It was then I had found out that we lost three of our scout ships to the attackers, but that the crews had managed to abandon their craft. All injuries to the crewmembers were minimal.

The destroyers had lived up to what they were called. They had destroyed over two hundred enemy spacecraft. The ship that was strafing us was the only one that had managed to get through. I was proud of these men and women that had crewed all of our ships.

This force was at their peak of readiness. Jerome and Daniel had done well along with all the commanders of our spacecraft. They had defeated an opposing force that had superior weapon capabilities. I felt that we had a chance to defeat the Krea’ckh.

“Paarth, with the added upgrades in technology from the Alliance I feel that we will defeat the Krea’ckh. If we have concluded our meeting we shall depart, back to our Solar System for further preparation.” Gordon said.

“Very well, the Alliance is ready but I would like to stress that diplomacy is our first priority. We ask that bloodshed be a last resort.” Paarth said.

“We do understand but what had happened earlier was just a beginning. We feel that bloodshed will be unavoidable.” I said.

“The Alliance feels as you do. Do follow the policies of the Alliance, your brother will advise you in these matters. Listen to his words closely.

One further bit of information, here are the coordinates of an anomaly that the Borulathen have found while in Wormhole transit recently. We ask that a vessel be sent to investigate what these readings mean. Our scientists are at a loss in explanations.” Paarth said as he handed a CompPad to me.

“Amanda, where are these coordinates?” I asked as I handed her the CompPad.

“It appears to be over twenty light years away from here. These readings are strange. They are similar to our Wormhole Engine and power signatures, but very weak.” Amanda said after doing some calculations.

“That was the exact conclusion they had made.” Paarth said.

“Amanda, I would like you, Felicia, Eve, Paul, Dr. Carson, Daniel and Jerome to take four of the five Mother Ships to those coordinates and investigate those anomalies, please.

I have a feeling that we are not the only Urh’natau left, if you are right about those readings. If you need more assistance you will get it, I just hope it might not be a trap laid out by the Krea'chk. May the Creator be with you all and protect you.” I said while Gordon smiled at the decision.

"The Creator will be dear daughter as She is with all of us. I will recall all of our ships now, with your permission. We will leave within the hour.”

“Very well, tell Daniel and Jerome to see Gordon and I before leaving. Have a replacement crew brought to the Barge. Mother our love is with you all.” I said then kissing her cheek.

Watching Amanda leave, I saw the look of determination written on her face with the task at hand. She was totally within her element as an explorer. This forth-coming mission I sensed would test their entire prowess of all their intelligence combined.

“You wish to go with them, do you not?” Paarth said to me as he placed his hand on my shoulder.

“Yes, that is true.”

“Your place is with those you lead and to prepare them for the coming scrimmage with our foe. You will get your chance to visit other places, to be the explorer you wish to be. I sense though, the Urh’natau people are above those dreams to voyage the stars.” Paarth said.

It was true! This man saw through me to my very depths of my thoughts. Gordon and I have a responsibility to our people first. We have the additional responsibility to the Alliance. It was Aimaila’s dream for all Beings to be one in the galaxy. When it is time our children will have those responsibilities, they will remember all that we have done just as we are now learning what Aimaila had done.

As I turned around with Gordon I saw that all the delegates of the Alliance were watching us as we spoke. As I have said before there were creatures beyond description but these were beings that were sentient. Some were explorers, some traders and above all intelligent just as humanoids were. Prejudices had no place within the Alliance this would be a difficult concept for the people from Earth to comprehend, they with their petty prejudices against those of color, sexual preference, sex or religious beliefs.

One being that looked to be an earth wolf said via thought, ‘Arlene of Urh’natau, I am Mar’loge of Sve’pok the alpha male of my kind. I will tell you thanks from the delegation for the heroic action you have done for us for our protection.

You placed yourself in great danger to defend us all. Your courage is great, as was your mothers, Queen Aimaila and her consort. Many of us knew her well and her consort well just as we now hope to know both you and Gordon well.

We had all heard the rumors of your strange telekinetic abilities. I for one had my doubts until today. If not for the courage and the strength of the Urh’natau I fear we may all have gone to our creators. Our thanks to you and your people.’

My thoughts roared to those onto our ships in space to be heard by all. The computer I was told later, sent my thoughts to all the planets in the Alliance.

‘Gentile Beings, it was not only the people of the Urh’natau in our ships but those beings of the Earth also. Some of those ships had commanders from Earth on them. Earth has proven that their people are brave this day also. It is a proud day that you have granted them to be a part of the Alliance. They will not disappoint you in their endeavors.'

'Today it will be told to all the people of the Earth, of the Alliance and of the bravery of all those gathered here. You delegates have shown what working together to create peace truly is. We, the Admiral, Sub Commander and I thank you all
all.’ Li Wei had said also via her thoughts.

‘We must leave now, back to Earth to ready our fleet. As you may already know we will be sending four of our Mother Ships on a possible rescue mission. Our hopes are that there may be those that may have possibly survived the destruction of our homeworld. At this time all or any of us have is hope, but time has been more than against us for this rescue. Farewell to you all and the blessings of the Creator to you all.’ Gordon’s thoughts rang out.

As we turned to leave, the assembled delegates began to once again vocalize their approval. We all turned to face the delegates; both Paarth and Gordon each had placed a hand on my shoulders. I vowed not to disappoint these special creatures of the Alliance.

Once again we started to walk toward the Barge. I felt good that I was able to help, but I knew that my security teams were going to give me hell for what I did by placing myself into the danger we faced. Oh well, what can I say?

Li Wei, Jake and Alexei met us at the Boarding Ramp of the Barge. We all told Paarth we would all be in communication with the Alliance. Jake as the Fleet Admiral of Earth Forces and Jerome as the Urh’natau representative would be responsible for fleet tactics, would be also in communications with the Alliance. I sensed that Paarth was not as tense as he had been as we all went aboard the Barge.

Upon entering we all saw that Jerome, Amanda and Daniel were still on the Barge.

“Is this why Jerome and Father didn’t come and speak to us?” Gordon said loudly and later smiling.

“Now wait a minute please. Our duty is your safety first. We have a Destroyer waiting to transport us when we land onto Mother One. Besides there were too many beings around you.” Daniel said.

“Okay Father, we do understand. Are all security members onboard their ships?” I asked.

“Yes and we are also ready to lift off.” Jerome said.

“Turn over the Barge to Caroline. We need to speak in our cabin.” I said.

“You heard the boss Caroline, let’s go.” Jerome said.

Chapter Forty-six:

We all entered the inflight cabin with me being the last to enter. I didn’t want to hear what Eve had to say, at least not yet.

“Father, I want those Matter Transceivers certified for humanoid use.” I said.

“But those are only for cargo.” Daniel said.

“This mission might require their use. Can you do it?” Gordon said.

“Sure, it’ll be done Your Highness.”

“Good. Jerome, You are now our Armada Battle Fleet Admiral, I would like you to work with Jake and Alexei to work out the battle tactics we might have to deploy against the Krea’ckh when you rejoin the Armada.

This is in conjunction to your other Armada duties. Pick your own staff from the Armada. You will also go on this mission.” I said.

“Yes your Highness.” Jerome said.

“Mother, when you are one hour from those coordinates contact Mother One every hour on the hour for a situation report. Please, no heroics and the safety standards are to be observed.” Gordon said.

“Li Wei when we get to the fringes of the our solar system. The Barge will launch, taking you directly to the UN to file your report with the General Assembly. Please notify them in to what is coming and for them not to panic. The Comm Rooms and ship's computer are open for your use at anytime you need.”

Okay now Paul, Al, Irene and Eve, not one word. I know I broke all the agreements about our security. It won’t be done again. Eve and Paul you are to go also.”

Before they could say anything else we were all aboard Mother One. I wished them all the best of luck and silently prayed that they would find the remnants of our world. I hurried back to our Stateroom so that I didn’t hear what security had to say and Gordon stayed to see Amanda and Daniel off, along with everyone else for their assignments.

On entering our Stateroom I saw another me sitting down listening to classical music and reading a romance novel from Earth while Lynn was asleep on a blanket on the floor.

“How was she? Did she behave for you?” I said to hide my surprise.

“Lynn was a demon after you left, all she did was cry. I had to go out of the stateroom and change into your likeness. Sorry Sis, but I borrowed your clothes after Lynn made a mess of mine. Lynn decided it was more fun to throw her food then to eat it. By the way, I like those stylish gloves you’re wearing. Is that the new style for the Armada?” Sheila said.

“That’s no problem with the clothes. The gloves, I guess I kind of destroyed them, Huh.”

“Are you alright? We saw the meeting, arranged by Daniel, we also saw the attack. The entire meeting was transmitted to the Armada and to Earth. I think that the gloves have to go, way too trashy.”

“I think so, it still hurt me that I destroyed those lives.”

“It was a situation of them or you. It was nature’s basic law of survival. All of those that were with you are alive because of you.

What about the rescue mission?”

“I see what you mean. The rescue mission, what can we expect to find? If our people are there, they may all be dead. I don’t know, at least we can put their spirits to rest. What I can’t understand is why wasn’t the Distress Beacon used?”

“Maybe there just wasn’t time to use it. It might have malfunctioned. Where and how did they get the ships? We were always told that the Armada were the only ships that were built.”

“I guess whatever questions we have will have to wait until we find out that these indeed are our ships. Computer, Bridge, Duty Captain, Please” I said

“Welcome back dear, you did well.” My mother said,

“Mother, take Mother One back to the Armada at Flank Speed. Have the other Mother Ships departed yet?”

“They just went into the wormhole.”

“Tell them Bon Chance from me please.”

“Amanda said she will keep in contact with us.”

“Good, now let’s get back to the rest of the Armada. Sorry but I miss the Earth."

“I know the feeling. I’ll see you when your father comes up here. We love you Sweetheart.”

“We all love you both, Mother.”

“Computer, locate King Gordon, ask him to come to this stateroom. Also locate Carmen and have her contact me.”

“Done”

Sheila and I spoke briefly while I awaited Carmen to contact me. Mother One was now underway back to the Armada. It would feel good to be near the Earth again.

“There is a visitor at your door.”

“Allow.”

“When the door slid open Carmen in all her glory stood there smiling. When she entered she ran to me and hugged me saying, “Senora, we are happy you have returned. Are you hungry?”

“How did you ever guess.”

“Wait, how can there be two of you? Oh no, no games today.” Carmen said after seeing Sheila.

Sheila told Carmen what problems she had with Lynn. That was why she looked the way she did. It wasn’t to play a joke on Carmen or me.

Carmen said she would make anything I wanted. I asked for just a light snack and received a strange look from her as she ran from the Stateroom to her Galley Kitchen. To Carmen a light snack meant a buffet table for three hundred.

“Sheila, I really have to get out of this flight suit and into something else. Would you mind staying longer with Lynn?”

“No Sis, she’s a little darling now that she’s asleep. Why don’t you also take a bath and relax. I’ll stay, besides Gordon and mom will be here soon.

“You sure do know how to read my mind, don’t you?”

“You bet, now get going.”

I was in our bedroom in nothing flat, removing the flight suit layer by layer until I was naked. The air temperature in the room felt wondrous on my skin. I placed my crown upon the dresser to put it away later. I examined myself in the mirror that was a part of the closet doors. I had to admit I looked pretty good for a pregnant woman that was formally male and looked very old.

“Computer, bath, temperature one one five degrees Fahrenheit, fresh water, Rose scented bubble bath with oil, Jacuzzi style.” I said as I examined myself further.

“Preparing”

I grabbed a robe and softly padded to the bath area. I heard the water filling the bath. Hanging the robe on a hook I turned around to see once again the immense size of the lagoon we called a bath. This was one of the many wonders I loved on this ship.

I slowly walked and immersed my body into the heated water until I was seated with the water up to my chin. My body started to relax from the stresses I had incurred.

“Computer, the same music as the living area. Increase water temperature to one two zero degrees.”

“Done”

The musical scores of Johann Sebastian Bach filled the air. I closed my eyes further. I heard another person entering the bath. Opening my eyes I saw Gordon getting into the relaxing waters with me.

“I didn’t mean to disturb you.”

“You didn’t.” I said as I reached for his hand, drawing him closer to me.

Gordon sat and drew mm closer to him saying, “You did well on Ad’lph. I just love you more and more each day. I never know what to expect, except of course being a wonderful mother and a very loving wife.” He then raised my head and kissed me with all the passion he could.

I broke slowly away from the kiss to say, “Computer, seal doors, privacy mode bath area only.

“Done”

Gordon and I resumed where we had left off before going to the planet surface.

Chapter Forty-seven:

Somehow I had manage to fall asleep in Gordon’s arms after our time to be alone finished. As I awoke fully refreshed, full of passion, I kissed him once again.

“Oh no, not until later. Besides your mother is probably waiting for us.” Gordon said after he returned my kiss.

“Sweetheart, all I want to do is to show my love for you.” I said.

“I know but we still have duties to perform. There are many plans to be made that will require the both of us.” Gordon said brushing my lips lightly with a kiss.

“I see your reasoning. I guess we better get out of here and get dressed.” I said disappointedly.

Slowly we swam over to the stairs and walked out of the water hand in hand. We walked that way all the way into our bedroom, dripping wet. We kissed once more as he dried me off with the towel he retrieved. I was in a state of primal lust, all I could think of was to have him. To be joined as one in the throes of passionate lust.

“It’s the pregnancy doing this to me, isn’t it?” I said.

“Yes and your needs become insatiable as your pregnancy progresses. Mother and dad helped me as Lynn was growing inside of me. Now it’s my turn to show you.”

Ever so gently Gordon led me to our bed. He told me to lie on my back and to close my eyes. I felt his caring touch between my legs touching those areas that would renew the fires of my passion. I feared that I would take him willingly or unwillingly.

As he touched, those fires dimmed and died bringing me back to reality, I began to relax without falling asleep. My needs slackened as he softly touched various points of my body.

“There, do you feel any better?” Gordon asked.

I didn’t answer him but raised slightly to kiss him saying, “I love you. Thank the Creator that Amanda and Daniel showed you what to do.”

“Didn’t Dr. Carson tell you about your hormonal rush during your pregnancy?”

“He might have but I really don’t recall.” I said as I took his hand into mine.

“Now let’s get dressed. Your mother, Sheila and Lynn are waiting for us.

I slowly removed myself with Gordon’s assistance from the bed. Going to the closet shelves I removed a low-cut full-length lounger in violet from the hanger in the closet. I decided not to wear any slippers at first but changed my mind placing my favorite open toed mules on my feet. Looking at Gordon I saw that Gordon had dressed himself in a dark blue sweatsuit and black sneakers. Men, I'll never understand their sense of comfort!

I thought to myself, if anyone saw us they would never think that we were the king and queen that we are, but above all we are also human and do like our comfort.

“Computer, remove all privacy, normal mode.” Gordon said.

“Done.”

Gordon took my hand into his and led us through the doorway into the living area.

“Hormones, huh?” Mother said.

I just looked at her shyly and with embarrassment, nodded to her.

“Sweetie don’t be embarrassed, ask your father what I did to him. I’m surprised he can still walk. Any room in our house or furniture was fair game. Wait until you go into labor, our men have a tendency to run from us from our viciousness.

Sheila, don’t you dare say a word. I know I should have said something to prepare Arlene, but it did slip my mind.”

I took a seat next to Gordon on a sofa. He placed his arm across my shoulders drawing me to him. I still felt badly for my actions previously. Just by Gordon holding me I knew that he understood what had happened.

“Carmen should be here soon. Should we have her prepare a plate for daddy?” I asked.

“No, knowing Carmen she already fed him. Do you think that Amanda will find anything?” Mother asked.

“By the signatures of the energy systems it appears that whatever is causing the readings are running at a marginal level, that's what my father said.” Gordon said.

“Is it in the Wormhole Transit Lanes or dropped?” Mother asked.

“If they are in the Transit Lanes I would assume that there is nothing but pieces of wreckage. I think that it is coming from a ship possibly from our own design for energy transmissions.

My assumption is that the ship is intact.” Gordon said.

“Are we assuming that there is but one ship?” I asked.

“By the signature, yes. There cannot be more than one ship unless one of the computers are channeling all shipboard functions to the others.” Mother said.

“It’s possible but unlikely.” Gordon added.

“They are AI (Artificial Intelligence) are they not?” I asked.

“Sure they are but,………”

“Then it is possible this might be a situation of self preservation.” I said

“Computer ETA to Armada and ETA for Mother Rescue?” Amanda asked.

“Two-eight point four, five, three hours to Armada arrival. Two point one, five, two hours for Mother Rescue.” The computer answered.

“Computer please plot DATUM based on navigational information of Mother Rescue and rescue coordinates. Show relative relationship of both.

Do the electronic signatures match those of the Armada?” Mother asked.

I watched as the hologram appeared showing the rescue ships and the point to their destination.

“The analysis of the informational data given it is a match. Margin for error is point zero, zero, one conclusive.”

“Computer, are you able to communicate with rescue coordinates and Mother Rescue?” I asked.

There was a absolute silence in the room until Carmen came into the room.

“Here is the food for you, eat while it is hot.”

“In a minute Carmen, this is important.” I said.

“Affirmative, I have communicated with all.”

“All? Specify!” I asked excitedly.

“Two thousand and four ships. They require assistance, power levels are critical and failing.”

“Access all ship’s manifests and logs, all engineering drawings, and upload to Mother One.” Mother said.

“Done.”

“Display crew manifests.”

Before us the hologram was displayed. I gazed at the ship’s crew names onboard but couldn’t read the symbols. Those symbols where not Urh’natau, I didn’t know what it was, none of us knew.

“Mother, when we were being schooled by you, there was a story you read to us. Those symbols look to be the same. You said the people were called the Ca’leth I believe.” Sheila said.

“Computer, search language banks, identify and translate, Earth English.” Mother said

“Old Ca’leth is identified language, Translating.”

I saw the smile on Sheila's face after she correctly identified the symbols.

“Computer Upload all files pertaining to rescue to Urh’natau Rescue Mother One and Alliance, encrypt all. Contact all Mother One personnel and Paarth of the Alliance.

“Done.”

“Amanda, Paarth?” Mother said.

The Hologram took shape with the likenesses of both Paarth and Amanda.

“Iris, what did you send us?” Amanda asked.

“Those ships that you are enroute to are Ca’lethian. Paarth, did the Ca’lethians build our Mother Ships?”

“Iris, they build many ships and components. It is possible

“What we sent are the computer files of two thousand ships that you Amanda, are enroute to rescue. Paarth, I think Amanda and her teams will need help. Power is failing for this fleet. Please notify the Ca’lethians that we have found their fleet of ships.” I said.

“Computer, what location did journey commence from and destination.” Mother asked.

“Urh’natau to Ca’leth.”

“We’re getting sensor readings of many humanoid life forms on those ships. Life support is at minimals on all vessels. Our computers are also reading many stasis chambers with many not operating.” Amanda said.

“Paarth, we will remain on the scene until the Ca’lethians arrive. We will provide life support and try to find out what may have caused their problems.” Amanda said.

“The Ca’lethians and many others are now coming to help you. They state they had lost contact with those cargo ships over one hundred and fifty Earth years ago. They also state the computers on those ships were of a new generation of viral based systems and not the organic type we used. They discontinued the viral based systems due to high failure rates in synapses routing. Do what can be done.

Now in answer to a previous question, your ships had many of the components made by the Ca’lethians but they were designed by your people. ” Paarth said.

“We understand and thank you. I said.

“Amanda, do what you can, tell Daniel to be aware of the computers. Please be very careful, our daughter, son and grandchildren need us.” Mother said.

“I will and I will tell Daniel, our love to you all. Thanks for the files they will help us. Stay in contact with us. ”

“We will.”

“Computer break communications.”

“Done”

“Well, all we can do is to wait now.” I said.

“True, in a way I had hoped it might be our people on those ships.” I said.

“I know Hon, but I somehow think not.” Mother said.

“Computer, advise the Bridge, Tommy Jr., Li Wei, Jake and Alexei to all communications that we have had. Ask that they come to the Royal Stateroom at their leisure. Advise the Armada as to the situation.” Gordon said.

“Done.”

“Senor y Senoras, do not give up hope. Some of your people may still be somewhere.” Carmen said coming to each of us with a hug.

Okay, so I was disappointed, we all were. It would have been grand to announce to the Armada that we had found survivors from our homeworld.

The adventures that Gordon and I have had brought us closer together to work more as one. Our love for each other had grown to become the leaders that our people need. All the people that are close to us have seen that. I adjusted my position to get closer to Gordon as we sat together. I felt his arm draw me closer to him.

Gordon and I were handed very full plates by Carmen, as was Mother and Sheila. I was surprised that Lynn remained asleep as the smells of the food wafted throughout our stateroom.

I was in a dreamy state as I ate the Lobster Thermadore that was on my plate for an appetizer. I ever so slowly savored the richness of the dish. The spicy marinated profusion of the lobster pieces combined with the fullness of the melted cheeses, pimento, shallots and wine, titillated the palate. Carmen knew that Gordon and I enjoyed this dish as we requested it all the time.

“Visitors are at the door.”

“Enter”

“We came just in time Carmen and her food wagon is here.” Li Wei said jokingly.

“I have more than enough to feed everyone. Come, eat and enjoy.” Carmen said.

Alexei, Tommy Jr. and Jake waited until Li Wei was served then they went into a feeding frenzy.

“Jake, Alexei, Tommy slow down, enjoy and savor the food. I have brought much, much more for all to enjoy.” Carmen said to those grown men as if they were children.

“Never get your fingers near their plates when they are eating, if you do, count them all.” Li Wei said in a warning tone of voice.

“I like to see men eat and enjoy their food.” Carmen said.

“In their case they could replace a garbage disposal unit.” Li Wei said as she watched the three men eat.

“I’m sorry but I’ve had the best prepared food on Earth at the best restaurants. I never really cared for veggies or anything that came from the water but lately…………” Jake was interrupted by Sheila.

“Don’t forget you are more like us now. Your dietary preferences have changed perhaps for the better.”

“I think that we have all forgot all about that.” Alexei said.

Gordon and I went to the food cart and took some of the sweet and sour oriental style prawns and the grilled Flounder. I saw the smile on Carmen’s face as we added to those plates.

“I looked at those manifests after I had them translated. Have any of you noticed that several ships were devoted to water creatures and wildlife?” Li Wei said.

“Ah……No, that does seem strange. The other item that was missing were the recorded logs of the ships by the captains.”

“Could our computer linkup have been bad?” Jake asked.

“Not hardly Jake, but their computers are all very sick. Since the system is viral based instead of organic anything may have happened. Your Earth computer CPU’s are silicon based as well as your memory.” Mother said

“Our CPU’s are organic as well as the memory. We have found out that when our living orgasms replicate the memories the mother plant contained and then they are transferred to the children as a form of Backed up Data. Exponentially we have unlimited processing, storage and memory power through nutrients and light.” Sheila added.

“I don’t recall having ever helped you study that Sheila?” Mother said.

“Daniel has been teaching me.” Sheila said.

“Learn all you can from Daniel and Amanda, they are both fine engineers.” Mother said.

I looked at Gordon after I heard him almost choke on his food.

“Yes Gordon, they are both Armada Engineers. I told you that before. When we mate we are paired for life, which includes careers. It seems you children still have much to learn of our ways.” Mother said.

“There is a transmission from Amanda.”

“Accept”

We all watched as the holographic image appeared of Amanda and Daniel”

“I see you a enjoying your meal.” Amanda said.

“Oh cut the theatrics Amanda. Is everything alright?” Mother said.

“Theatrics, Hmmmmmm…………..Anyway Daniel and I have checked the computers upon arrival. Apparently the virus mutated not replicating, as it should but destroying the good cells. Dr. Carson has begun to rebuild the system after a massive dose of antibiotics.

The owners of the vessels will be here in two earth hours and take over the salvage operations. We were asked by the owners not to enter those ships due to safety concerns. I reminded them that according to the Alliance Charter that those ships were technically salvage. They put up one hell of a tantrum and disconnected communications. Paarth contacted us and requested we do as they asked. I decided to do as they asked, what was done was done externally through an inspection port in the vessel's hull structure.

It appears that it was fortunate that you downloaded that information when you did as it is no longer available and cannot be reconstructed.” Amanda said

“From what I can see you followed the right path. We are all proud that you avoided an incident. Let Paarth handle the diplomatic problems. Tell all the crews they did well. When you are ready to leave notify the Armada.” I said.

“We’ll see you soon. Our love to you all. Rescue One out.” Amanda said.

“Mother, I want every file that was downloaded analyzed, reconstruct what you have to. The Ca’lethians are hiding something. I want to find out what.” I said.

“Arlene you have a very suspicious mind. However I must agree with you. Something is being hidden and what of those Stasis Chambers and ships dedicated to sealife and wildlife?” Mother said.

“I’ll help if I can. I know that Jake and Alexei will also.” Li Wei said.

“So will Karla, Sheila, Irene, Tommy Jr., and Al will volunteer to help.” Mother said volunteering the family.

“Thanks for letting me help, I was going to ask anyway.” Sheila said sarcastically.

“Sis, that’s payment for the clothes you have on, that I may never see again.” I said smiling.

“I think we are all in agreement that there is being something that is hidden. The question is what it is. This is a job for Charley Chan, who knows he just might be one of my ancestors.” Li Wei said impishly.

“I thought your ancestors were smugglers.” Jake said with a smile.

“Sure they were, and good ones too. Maybe there’s a cop somewhere in that ancestral line too.” Li Wei said.

“I think for the present we just need to find out what we have as Arlene said. Now I want to finish stuffing my face, so I have more energy to expend.” Gordon said.

“Uh Oh, we better have more beds available.” Sheila said.

“Don’t worry the material replicators are working just fine. The problem will be to keep up with Arlene and Gordon.” Mother said with a twinkle in her eye.

After the friendly barbs had been flung to everyone, we finished eating. We spent the rest of the time to acquaint ourselves to the various creatures and cultures in the various galaxies. For some unknown reason I needed to find out more about the Ca’lethians.

Everyone had left for his or her own living quarters leaving Gordon, Lynn and I to be alone. Gordon and I played with Lynn until she became tired.

I prepared Lynn for our regular sleep cycle and told Gordon I would join him in our bed soon. Lynn accepted her bath with mommy in the spa with her smiling and giggling as we entered the water. As I held her in my arms I thought of what the Queen would say of her Granddaughter and the forthcoming births of the Grandbabies I carried. I think she would be pleased as my mother was, after all my birth mother is her sister. My thoughts were broken as Lynn attached her little mouth to my breast and began suckling.

I made a pledge that day that I would try to be the best mother I could to my children. I know that now my Birth Mother and Father did what they had to do to protect me and absorb the knowledge required as the heir to the crown. I bent my head down and kissed my daughter.

Chapter Forty-eight:

After joining Gordon in our bed I could not go directly to sleep. I tried everything I could but nothing helped.

Finally I left our bed and went to the living area having the Replicator brew some hot herbal mint tea for me.

As I walked to a chair and sat down, tucking my legs underneath me, I thought of the mystery that unfolded. Taking a sip of my tea I realized in essence I knew very little of the Ca’lethians.

“Computer display all general data on the Ca’lethian people and planet.”

Taking another sip of the tea the holographic image of their solar system opened, forming what I asked for.

The system contained twenty-seven inhabited planets. There were forty-three moons and two suns. Each of the planets and moons were inhabited by the Ca’lethian. The populations varied with the size of the planets and moons.

All the Planets and moons had massive ship building satellites or docks in orbit some as big as the planets and moons they went around.

“Computer, what was the length of construction of Mother One in Earth time?”

“one point three five years Earth time.”

My logic told me to amass two thousand ship with the resources that the Ca’lethians had would have taken decades.

“Computer, Do the Ca’lethians or any Alliance people have the ability to build or store the type of ship that Rescue One found?”

“Affirmative.”

“Computer, List all, with galaxies and reference to Earth.”

Over fifty galaxies unfolded.

“Computer, show the relative position of Urh’natau.”

What was shown was that Earth was at the far fringes but Urh’natau was almost dead center. The puzzle was coming together.

“Computer, have my mother and father, Jake and Alexei come to this stateroom immediately. Bring up a Comm Channel with Amanda, Daniel also Paarth immediately. Send this new data to Rescue One. Allow entry when they arrive. Continue with display.”

The Ca’lethians seemed to be a key that would open the door to the mysteries of those ships and their cargo. Where they involved somehow with the Krea’ckh? This was a question I was not prepared to answer just yet but I surely hoped they were not.

“Done.”

The door opened with my mother and father rushing in saying, ”What’s wrong? Is Lynn all right? The babies and you?”

“Yes, I’ll explain once I have everyone here.”

Father went to get some coffee for him and mother, while mother looked at the hologram images. Jake and Alexei entered going with my father.

Two images took shape with one being Paarth and the other Amanda and Daniel.

“I am sorry to disturb all of you. I have sent some data to you all.”

“Arlene, what is it?” Amanda asked sleepily.

“Those fifty galaxies you see combined have the resources to build the ships that you have found. Look at the center.”

“That’s Urh’natau!” Amanda yelled.

“Yes it is, mother. Paarth, why are we being lied to?”

“Arlene I have no idea. It does seem that the Ca’lethians are bending the truth.” Paarth said.

“Bending the truth is putting it mildly.” I said.

“I managed to reconstruct a partial navigational log which showed that that fleet was indeed at Urh’natau before its destruction.” Mother said

“Daniel, have you turned over custody of those ships to the Ca’lethians?” Mother asked.

“No Iris, we expect them soon.”

“Paarth, I suggest that we allow them to repair those ships. I suggest that Amanda and Rescue One transfer my staff personnel to the other Rescue Ships to rejoin the Armada.

Give Rescue One all the Destroyers and as many scouts as it can take aboard and follow the Fleet to its destination point, gathering as much information as they can.

If we feel there is a criminal intent then it can be brought before the Alliance for disposition.

Do you want the Cruisers too?”

“Yes I would, just as extra support.” Amanda said.

“That does seem the wisest thing to do at this time, I agree. I have known these beings for many of your years. They are not the type to deceive any being. This saddens my heart that there is subterfuge. I will notify the Alliance Council.”

“Mother you have heard your orders, by the direction of the High Council of the Alliance.

Do not, I repeat, do not put yourself or our crews into any jeopardy.” I said.

“We do have a special ability that the Ca’lethians are not aware of. Could we use that to our advantage?” Amanda asked.

“Yes, if you can verify the safety of those involved, you are in command of this operation so you will not participate. Is that understood?” I said.

“It is understood my Queen.” Amanda said disappointedly.

“Very well and please keep in contact with us. Paul will remain with you and Eve will return. Follow Paul’s counsel in this operation.

Paarth, I know that I have confused your thinking but Amanda will explain. Thank you once again.” I said.

“Arlene I was happy to be a part of this operation. One thing I must say once again, that your birth mother and Aimaila should be very proud of you.” Paarth said.

“So is her Mother in law, Paarth.” Amanda said.

“Her mother is proud of all her children even though Arlene is special to the Urh’natau people.” Mother said.

“I will leave you all to contact those that must be contacted. Amanda please be cautious. Arlene, we will be in contact later.” Paarth said

We bid our farewells to Paarth and Amanda, disabling the communications.

“Well daughter you did well. Why did you leave Paul with Amanda?” Mother asked.

“Because Paul will not hesitate to put Amanda in her place if she attempts to disobey my orders."

"Arlene, what about those ships? They're monstrous in size. I mean that the Armada Mother Ship's are big but these are over four times larger. This ship is over fifty nautical miles in diameter and close to twenty-five miles in depth.

We're talking in comparison to two hundred miles in diameter and one hundred miles in depth. There are two thousand of those monsters!" Jake said.

"Jake have you ever heard of the word stasis?" Iris asked.

"Sure, it's an abnormal state in which the normal flow of a liquid (such as blood) is slowed or stopped, similar to hibernation. It's as if putting the body into a very long sleep." Jake said.

"Well those ships are full of those type of chambers as well as sealife and wildlife from our mother world. Now according to what we have pieced together, those ships made a stop at Urh'natau before having their problems." Iris said.

"You're making a very large supposition if you assume that those ships contain more of your people and the planet's wildlife." Li Wei said.

"Sensor scans don't lie. Those chambers contain people, humanoids." Iris said.

"Why didn't the Ca’lethians allow the boarding of their vessels if your people are onboard?" Alexei asked.

"We don't know, Alexei. But they really didn't give us permission to enter them. That's why Arlene told Amanda to find out what they were up to and why." Tommy Sr. said.

"Father, please notify the Armada of the situation. What is our ETA to Earth?" Arlene asked.

"They will be notified. Our ETA is less than nine hours." Tommy Sr. said.

"Father, place twenty-five percent of the Armada on yellow alert for wartime cruising. If Amanda needs the help, she will get it. Make certain Amanda keeps the Armada advised of her position. Have our computer do a link up with her ship every twenty minutes and to monitor the ships status." Arlene said.

"I want a Situation Report of the Armada's refit status once the Alliance ships arrive. Once a Mother Ship is refitted, it will be placed on Yellow Alert and prepared for Wartime Cruising. If the refit can be accomplished enroute then that ship goes if needed." Arlene said.

"You know Tommy, she acts more like Aimaila each day." Iris said.

"No mom, she acts more like a decisive queen that will go to all lengths to protect those that need protection." Gordon said as he came to my side from the bedroom.

"I didn't want to disturb you. I was very restless." I said as I took his hand into mine.

"That's why I awoke, you weren't in bed with me." Gordon said as he kissed me.

"Gordon, her mother is correct she does act like Aimaila. I for one am ecstatic. She was a brilliant, decisive queen and a charming, lovely lady. The Alliance respected her judgments never to question her decisions." My father said.

"That still doesn't answer the question I asked earlier on Ad'lph. Are we or aren't we the galaxies cops?" Jake asked.

"I guess we are in some ways, Jake. We are the peacemakers and arbitrators for the galaxy our word is final in the dispute. We do bring justice to those that wreak havoc on the weak such as the Krea'ckh. We are intolerant of any species killing the other in accordance with Alliance law." My father said.

"I don't understand this at all. The Earth is a cesspool of corruption, murder and avarice, yet we are to help you in maintaining peace. Earth people have practiced the seven deadly sins for centuries there will be those that won't change." Li Wei said.

"To paraphrase a very wise person on Earth, people can and will change for the betterment of society. The Alliance would not have sent us to Earth if Earth could not have been saved. Yes Arlene, the Armada was sent here under her direct orders to observe and evaluate Earth for potential membership in the Alliance."

"What if the Earth had refused." Li Wei asked.

"I really don't know, the matter would have been brought up to the High Council of the Alliance for disposition." Tommy said.

There was no use in speculation about the, What ifs. I assume the Alliance would have told us, the Armada, to depart leaving those on Earth that wished to stay. The Earth would have been by itself to attempt to stop the Krea'ckh which would have meant the deaths of all life and the planet.

"Father, have you notified High Elder Travis that we have assumed control of the Armada yet? Li Wei, are you packed and ready yet?"

"I left orders with the computer to send out the message in three hours." My father said.

"I'm already to go, Arlene. I haven't decided what to say to the assembly yet."

"Just tell them the truth. The Earth knows that there is help coming. They know? How? Never mind………everything on Ad'lph was transmitted back to Earth, Right?"

"Yes it was. High Elder Travis made the arrangements after speaking to both of the Presidents. They thought it was necessary.

There has been a group of skeptics spreading rumors that all information was not being given to the people of the world. They said that we actually have invaded the Earth, taking control of it. They have also said that you, Jake and Alexei were dead and blamed us." Tommy said.

"That's rubbish. I guess that I have a bit of diplomacy to do down there." Li Wei said.

"I made preparations for you to have a security team composed of all Earth personnel." Tommy said.

"I think that Alexei and I should accompany Madam Secretary General. We might be the swaying factor for people to see that all is well. When Daniel and Jerome arrive I ask that we be notified." Jake said.

"Li Wei do we have the permission of Earth to bring the refit ships into the solar system?" Tommy asked.

"Computer, have you been recording this conversation?" Tommy Jr. asked.

"Affirmative."

"The answer is yes, you do have the permission granted by the Secretary General of the Earth United Nations. We of the planet Earth made this decision and we are not under any form of duress." Li Wei said.

"As the High Counselor of the Alliance I certify that this file has not been altered in any way." Tommy said.

"Computer, send file to all Earth News Media and governments." Tommy said.

"Done"

"That was a stroke of genius. The Press will love you." Jake said.

"Yeah, thank you dear brother, now take a look at how we are all dressed. I cannot believe you did this." I said.

"Arlene, cool down please. Be thankful we weren't all naked." My mother said.

"But mother………….."

"Arlene, let us just enjoy the few hours we have left with our friends. All of us will be very busy soon." Mother said.

"One more thing Jake, will you and Alexei speak to and recruit those that work out your fighter tactics for the Armada?" Gordon asked.

"Alexei and I had planned on doing that when we returned. I'll need to have the flight specifications of all ships." Jake said.

"Computer, send all ship flight specifications to the Barge for Admiral Filipowski."

"Done"

"There you go Jake you can access that information via the Compad. Anything else, just ask. The only problem I see is the refits. Those specs might change. Dad will make sure you're advised of them." Gordon said.

We sat talking for the hours to pass. By the time our friends leave us and land in New York City we will have rejoined the Armada Mother Ships to await the continual arrival of the Alliance refit ships.

Chapter Fifty:

It has been several months now that the Alliance Refit ships have joined us. The job that they are committed to is massive and Daniel is "Happier then a Pig in Shit' to quote Jake. So far eighty of the Armada Mother Ships and all their auxiliary and fighting ships have been refitted from armaments to every system onboard.

The bases and cities that are being constructed on the planets and moons are partially finished. The Terra Forming of certain planets are close to completion also. It seems strange to see Mars with seas, rivers and lakes together with the flora and fauna for life breathing air that had come from Armada ships. The next step will be for the introduction of suitable wildlife to the planet. Mars, sometimes called the Angry Planet due to the red color seems to enjoy the changes that are being made.

We have heard from Amanda and her ships still following the Ca’lethians ships, which are traveling at several times the speed of light. High Elder Travis has volunteered to relieve the ships following those ships so Rescue One could be refitted. So far Amanda has refused as she and Paul feel that this fleet is close to their destination. We shall see!

Fong Li Wei has utilized the skills of diplomacy to her advantage. She has quelled the fears of the diplomats and people throughout the Earth. She is the 'Darling' of the News Media by allowing them to interview her wherever she might be visiting. We have made a destroyer available to her anytime she needs one.

Jake, Alexei and Jerome have assembled two hundred of the finest Air and Ship Flight statisticians ever. They came to us from all over the Earth from all branches of the armed services. These men and women will be the unsung heroes of the conflict.

Eve, Al and Irene have been training our raw recruits in the survival skills that may save their lives. We now have Security, Boarding and Rescue Teams that can be relied upon for any eventuality.

Me, I just keep on getting bigger with Doctor Carson yelling at me to watch my weight. Gordon is a Dear; he has been really patient with me and my raging hormones.

"There is an incoming transmission for you from the Ca’lethians." The computer said.

"Allow please."

A holographic image of a humanoid with four arms came into view saying, "Queen Arlene, we bid you greetings. I am Koruse, High Builder of Ships."

"Greetings Koruse, may I be of some assistance?"

"We seem to have a situation. We know that your ships are following us. We have had several incursions onboard our ships by your people, please do not deny this. We have recorded evidence to support this allegation."

"I am not aware of these incursions. I will however admit to our ships following you."

"We have asked you not to come aboard these ships and you did comply but lately we have seen your people onboard."

"Why have you lied to us? Why is there sea and wildlife from Urh'natau onboard your ships? Why were those ships at Urh'natau? Why do those ships have stasis chambers?"

"Please, please we have given a promise not to disclose any information. Our word is sacred to those we gave it to."

"Simple yes or no answers would be suitable. I ask you those question once again, if the answers are not suitable I will dispatch my personnel to board those ships and send many more from the Alliance to do the same."

"Very well, I will answer what I can. I know that you have the authority to do as you say. But first if your people come aboard they will be exposed to a very deadly virus that we are immune to. Are you willing to accept those risks?"

"What are your intentions?"

"We are enroute to Maarsk'tu in the Tellez quadrant. It is a planet that developed the Virus Strain for the computer system core; they have developed the cure. Currently the main computer is off-line. We are using Auxiliary computers we have brought with us. Let us continue this flight to Maarsk'tu and we will disclose all to you. We ask for your trust and apologize for our deceptive ways thusfar, but as I said we had made a bargain or promise for secrecy. I ask that you keep your people onboard your ships and those that have come aboard be isolated from the rest of your crews."

"I sense that you will keep your word. We will do as you ask on the condition that those ships broadcast a quarantine signal."

"It is done, we thank you for your trust."

"Remember, I want answers."

"Computer, end transmission. Make file available to my staff Paarth, and Rescue One. Mark file as urgent."

"Done."

"Computer, Open transmission to Paarth."

I saw Paarth's image come into view.

"Paarth, greetings."

"Greetings Arlene, I have received your vidfile. Allow me the time to review it."

"By all means, we will speak later."

"Computer, end transmission"

"Computer, Doctor Carson, my mother and King Gordon to my stateroom."

"Done."

Gordon was the first to enter followed by my mother and Doctor Carson. Once they were seated I had the computer replay the transmission while I sat silently.

"They are hiding something else." Mother said.

"I think we all agree. Have you contacted Amanda?"

"I sent it off to her. I called Doctor Carson here as I was worried about possible contamination to our crews."

"It is possible but to be truthful it would be best to isolate those crew members that became exposed. Since Amanda is following that fleet I would contact the Maarsk'tuians through Paarth or direct, to arrange for the cure."

I thought briefly before saying, "Computer, High Priority Communications with the Maarsk'tu in the Tellez Quadrant."

"Done."

We watched as an image came into view of a creature with yellow lizard like scaly skin, large eyes set off from the head to look almost to its rear and sides, a large protruding mouth with fierce flesh eating teeth. It stood upright using its tail to balance its body. Looking at this being it resembled bodily, a carnivore on Earth called the Crocodile. I felt a little uncomfortable as I gazed at it.

"I am Queen Arlene of the Urh'natau, High Première of the Alliance. Whom am I addressing?"

"I am known as K'broi, we have been expecting your communications. Paarth has contacted us and has sent the Vidfile to us. We have made all the necessary preparations for the incoming fleet of ships. We will send the necessary medical information to your ship doctor when contacted. We have sent a decontamination team to meet the fleet and to start the procedures to clean the ships of the viral spores."

"Do you know what cargo the fleet carries?"

"We do not know, we do know the fleet was gathered at the request of Aimaila with great secrecy."

"Secrecy but why? Did you help to build those ships?"

"We do not know why. Yes we did help but only the Bio-Genetics, specifically the computers. Other Alliance members built those ships also with the primary architects being the Ca’lethians to your design. One thing we noticed was the enormous cargo areas of those ships that are multipurpose living quarters."

"Those areas were describe as the Stasis Area. We did manage to upload all the files we could. We have managed to reconstruct the more damaged files."

"Did your computer become infected?"

"No, our systems are the older versions but have been updated. We don't use VBT (Viral Based Technology). Our technicians ran our diagnostics just to be sure."

"That is correct your ships are the earlier versions. That was a wise decision for the diagnostics."

"K'broi, we thank you for the information, you have been most kind."

"It was my pleasure, I hope that I have helped."

"Computer, cease transmission.

"Done."

"He was not telling the truth. K'broi is hiding something. I also felt fear as he spoke."

"Fear, fear from whom or shall I say what? Reprisals?"

"Fear from me, mother, possibly. Could they be involved with the Krea'ckh?"

"I highly doubt that. They have always refused anything the Krea'ckh have asked. That is possibly why the Krea'ckh hate the Alliance so." Mother said.

"You have visitors."

"Allow."

Jake and Jerome entered our stateroom with Jake saying, "All the Cruisers, Destroyers and Scouts have been upgraded. We now have an additional five hundred thousand scouts spread out on the planet. Ah………..did we interrupt something?" Jake said.

We proceeded to brief them on what had happened.

"I took samples of that Virus and the computer core and memory cores for our Virologists to study. Before being recalled back to Rescue One.

The virus chain sample I took from the memory could never have been part of the original computer memory core. I believe it was introduced, sabotage is a possibility. There is no possibility of any of us or our computer contacting it." Doctor Carson said.

"That's a relief. So we have another lie from them. Did you manage to take any samples from the Stasis Chamber?" I said.

"No, I was recalled back to Rescue One." Doctor Carson said.

"There is a transmission from Paarth."

"Connect."

"Arlene, I have reviewed the Vidfile and feel that they are hiding a great deal."

We then gave a brief synopsis of the conversation with K'broi.

"I have no doubt there is collusion. What do you wish to do?"

"It appears that they have the means to see our ships even with our stealth systems activated. I would like to recall our ships and replace them with others from the Alliance to seek the answers we need." I said.

"That can be done. The excuse could be to refit all those ships in preparation to stop the Krea'ckh." Paarth said.

"I will do that then. They will remain on station until relieved by that Flotilla Commander. Iris will send the Ship Movement orders to Amanda immediately." I said as I nodded to my mother as she left the lounge area.

"Paarth, whatever Alliance ships are sent please make certain that those ships were not built by the Ca’lethians."

"The Ad'lph have requested to assist your cause. They have sworn their allegiance to the Alliance or shall I say to the Urh'natau, they will be most discrete. I do know their ships were made by the Ke'resei."

"Send our greetings and thanks. Have them notify Amanda with the information where they wiil rendezvous. Amanda will brief them as you should too."

"Arlene, I hope this is not a situation of treason to the Alliance. If it is it will be dealt with severely. It has also been reported that seven hundred ships are less than fifteen light years from your location in Sol."

"That is good news, we will be in contact with you Paarth. We must prepare for their arrival."

"We will speak later Arlene."

"Computer cease transmission, send Vidfile to Amanda, Paarth and Eve, Classified as urgent."

"Done."

"Computer, track and communicate with ships fifteen L/Y from Sol. Notify all Armada ships and Fong Li Wei of Alliance fleet arrivals." I said.

"Noted, Done."

"Jake, Alexei, Mother, will you handle the incoming ships and give them their assignments?" I said

"Sure, It might be a wise idea to relieve our ships shadowing the Krea'ckh. Have our ships been upgraded that are on station there?" Mother said.

"Yes they have been upgraded, but Amanda's Flotilla has not." Jake said.

"Jake, will you, Alexei and Jerome please take command of those incoming ships and use them as pickets at System C-354." Gordon said.

"Sure, will that be the staging area? I mean it's logical being several systems away from Earth." Jake asked.

"In actuality Jake, It's almost at the Krea'ckh ship loading ramp. We want them to see how they've angered the Alliance." Gordon said.

"We've been in touch with the strategists on Earth as well as the Alliance. It appears that they agree with each other in the tactics that might come into play. The Gor'tha have been the relay link to all those involved.

I have talked with their High Military council several times. They are out for the blood of the Krea'ckh, surrender by them is not an option." Alexei said.

"There is a message for the High Premiers of the Alliance from Earth."

"Accept"

As the image formed, we saw Li Wei smiling at us.

"Queen Arlene and King Gordon, as you can see the journey was a success. Currently, The General Assembly of the United Nations has voted unanimously to become members of the Galactic Alliance, this measure was supported favorably by the individual leaders of each Earth nation.

Every member has seen what had happened on Ad'lph. If the Earth wishes to survive and its people flourish in the trade and technology offered. we will try to uphold the laws of the galaxy with the Urh'tanau." Li Wei said.

"Computer, Paarth please."

"Done"

We watched as Paarth's image solidified. We told Paarth of the Earth's decision.

"Fong Li Wei, General Secretary of the United Nations, this joyous news will be sent to all the Alliance. The Galactic Alliance has become stronger this day with the members of the United Nations of Earth joining us." Paarth said.

In the background we could hear voices of several Earth languages being spoken at once. All at once there was the deafening sound of applause.

"As you can hear, your words Paarth, have stirred the people. With the technology the Urh'tanau have given us, we have shared this transmission with the entire Planet. There are reports of great celebrations in the streets.

With the technology available to us, this will be a new beginning for our people. The days of children and adults starving to death or homeless are over; the days of the people not being educated are over. This New Earth will not be utopian but we hope eventually that it might be.

Technology does not hold all the answers to dreams; perhaps it may help those dreams, the dream of peace." Li Wei said.

"That is what the Alliance hopes too. The Alliance too is not perfect but it does strive to maintain peace." Mother said.

"The Earth has decided for me to become the first ambassador to the Galactic Alliance as well as the Secretary General of the United Planets of Sol.

My cabinet of advisors will be from the elected leaders of the Earth; the General Assembly will respect the wishes of the people they serve unifying the Earth.

Eventually there will be those that wish to populate the planets of Sol. We will all have ties to the Earth just as the Urh'natau people have ties to Urh'natau. Therefore we have formed the United Planets of Sol for the future representation of those planets."

"Thinking toward the future, that was wise. The Alliance will be pleased to your decision. I for one see there was great wisdom to bring Earth into the Alliance." Paarth said smiling.

"We have learned from the Alliance, Urh'natau and from many of our own nations on Earth." Li Wei said.

"I must go and report this development to the Alliance. We bid you peace gentile beings of Earth." Paarth said as he signed off.

After Paarth had left us we told the Earth what we planned. Jake and Alexei received the readiness reports of the ship and crews of the various ships that the Earth had received for its defense. The people of Earth have proved to all that they could and would work together. The ships were at eighty- five percent trained and ready. This number exceeded the percentage originally forecasted. Jake though, was not happy and told the base commanders that training would be increased until the objective was reached of one hundred percent.

I thought that his figures were a bit unreasonable. Not all could learn the systems and the ships as quickly as I did. I was about to say what I thought until Gordon came to my side and taking my hand into his. This was our signal to each other to keep quiet and we would discuss the matter later.

Gordon was right for me to keep quiet. These people had the right to demand more from their people. They might all play a part in the survival of Earth if the Armada should fail against the Krea'ckh. The thought of failure was ever present in the recesses of my mind and my nightmares. The thoughts of members of the Alliance dying were ever present.

Chapter Fifty-one:

The preparations by the Alliance have been to say the least have been an experience. The people of the Earth have had extensive contact with other species. Of course there where those that tried to cause problems (Racial Purists) but those problems were remedied quickly when the charging whine of a Blaster was heard and put into their faces. Those that were once in bondage were free, never to be oppressed again. Those that were considered the unclean were clean. Societies and cultures can change if there is a reason for change.

The greater majority of the people of Earth had opened their arms to embrace all of the Alliance. Those people knew that the Alliance was there to help them in the oncoming fight with the Krea'ckh. Many knew also of the technological and trade benefits too. The Earth was prosperous to all!

We of the Armada have been busy too. The training and the upgrades of the equipment have been extensive. The engines of all the vessels have overhauled. The Wormhole Drives had been upgraded to increase the speed even more than what it was. The Matter Transmitters have been reconfigured on all our vessels and on Earth. The use of the auxiliary and fighter craft to transport personnel, supplies and parts can now be used for the purpose they were designed for, to keep the Alliance peaceful.

Daniel and Amanda have never been happier. Oh yes, I forgot, Amanda has returned to the Armada after being relieved by the Ad'lph. There were times in the past she was more than abrasive in her manner. I don't know why but I sense she has found an inner peace to her she did not have before. I had mentioned my observations to Mother, Father, Gordon and Daniel, they said to keep my comments to myself. They all liked the new Amanda and I do too.

The Ad'lph have been sending reports back to us frequently. They have reported that the fleet of massive vessels had been taking shuttles on and off. There appears to be no set destination yet and they did not want to make any assumptions.

They have also reported that several times their ships had almost been discovered. They almost had collisions with the vessels going to those massive ships.

We have cut down the security duties of Irene a bit. We found out that she and Al will be having a baby soon after we have the triplets. I see the joy in their faces each day. Al, I sense will be the perfect father spoiling the child. Now maybe my other siblings will get married. Oh, I wish!

Gordon and I have decided not to have the knowledge of whether to have the sexes of the babies revealed to us. Although we have a feeling that our parents scared that information out from Dr. Carson.

I have been having dreams that I cannot explain lately that had to do with Aimaila. In those dreams she said smiling, she was proud of her daughter and son in law. Every situation that we had was taken care of in a manner that she would have done.

Aimaila had appeared to me several times, on the second time she was in my dreams her face was sorrowful. I had managed to ask why she was sad, her reply was it would all be explained later. Was this an indicator she would guide Gordon and I? I was told it was her personal sorrow and had nothing to do with the Armada. This was good I thought as she faded from my mind.

I spoke to my mother of these apparitions by Aimaila in my dreams as they started to disturb me. She said that she too had been having them. Mother then said that Aimaila had told her that she had done a marvelous job in raising her children. She was especially proud of her in raising me to ascend the throne and to assume the duties of a leader, wife and mother.

All I could do or say was to hold mother and Lynn while the both of us cried. Once we had composed ourselves we spoke more of those dreams. I thought I had them because of the strange food I had been eating before going to sleep. Mother had not ever indulged in those foods during her pregnancy with us. She actually looked disgusted as I told her what food cravings I had been stuffing my face with. Okay, so I like hot sport peppers and pickled herring with my chocolate and pistachio ice cream before bed. I still can't understand why everyone leaves the room while I have my little snack. Mmmmmmmmm…………………Good!

Now Lynn is another matter. She has grown tremendously getting into everything as she walks about. (Oh yes she can walk, levitate and grab!) Nothing is safe from her. If she can grab something and stick it into her mouth she's happy. She also learned to levitate her stuffed animals and to animate them. Oh, she can also say mommy and daddy. That's our little girl! Daddy and Mommy are thrilled! Oh the joy our little ET gives us daily!

The Terra Forming of the planets and the creation of the additional bases have been coming along quite nicely. The Construction Crews and Terra Forming crews came from Earth after the Alliance trained them. Space Docks have been built and the personnel are in place. People once considered worthless on Earth now were happy they had a purpose with their lives playing a part of the history of the Solar System and the expansion of the humans that were born on Earth. All of Earth was united by one flag that was the United Nations Flag.

As I awoke I thought of all that had been accomplished, briefly forgetting my dreams of Aimaila. I was thankful to have seen the face of my Donor Mother in my mind but I had other matters to concern myself with at the moment.

"Arlene, Gordon, Please come to the Bridge." The disembodied voice of my Father said.

I could sense the urgency in his voice and said, "Father we're just getting up. Could you give us an hour to get something to eat and get ready please."

"I'll be off duty by then. I'll brief your mother and come to your stateroom. How's my precocious Granddaughter and Grand babies doing?" Father said.

"That would be fine. Lynn is still sleeping and the other three kept me going last night, I think they had a card game going inside of me."

I heard my father laugh to be joined in by my mother.

"No one ever said being pregnant was easy, dear." Mother said.

"Why don't you both join us for breakfast? I'll have Carmen bring it to us while you tell us what the urgency is." I said.

"That sounds great! Then I can tell everyone at once." Father said.

"Computer, allow my parents and Carmen access to our living quarters when they arrive."

"Done"

"Just walk on in when you get here. I'll notify Carmen." I said.

"That will be fine, we'll be there shortly." Father said.

"Computer notify Carmen to have breakfast served to us here for five."

"Done"

I quietly turned to face my husband, placing a kiss gently onto his lips. I have done this each day to wake him and to express my love for him. Okay sometimes we get a bit carried away but this was truly my way to wake him.

I drew my lips from his as he encircled me with his strong masculine arms pulling me closer.

"You had a rough night, didn't you?" Gordon said softly.

"You heard, didn't you?" I said softly while disengaging his arms from around me.

"That and I felt your kicks too."

"I'm sorry if I woke you. Right now I can't wait until they are born. I feel like the Goodyear Blimp on Earth." I said as I got out of our bed.

"Shortly sweetheart."

"I know, it's just the heavy mood swings, trips to relieve myself, weird cravings and wanting you all the time. I think that if I could have them now I would." I said as I got dressed into my maternity ships uniform.

Gordon came from the bed, walking slowly to me just to embrace me saying, "I know but as I said darling, soon." Kissing me and placing a hand on my protruding, enormous belly.

I gladly accepted his affectionate kiss and the feeling of his hand on my belly. To me this meant a form of safety and love not only for me but the children I was carrying.

"Go get dressed, Carmen will be here soon with breakfast." I said as I gently steered him toward the closet for his clothes.

"Visitors are at your door." The computer said.

"Allow."

I once again pushed him saying, "Hurry up dear. Carmen is here."

When I entered the lounge area it wasn't Carmen but Jake, Alexei, Eve, Paul, Al and Jerome. All did not look happy.

"Sorry we're intruding, your dad suggested we be here when he speaks to you." Jake said just as my parents walked into the stateroom and Gordon walked into the lounge.

Before a word was said Carmen brought the hot food along with coffee and tea. She looked around the room and kept quiet as she prepared plates for us.

"Arlene, the Krea'ckh just ate another planet inhabited with several billion beings. They gave that planet no warning." Father said.

My sorrow was overwhelming as I burst into tears. My sorrow for those lives lost was unimaginable. As I composed myself my sorrow turned to anger. This had to be stopped!

"Father place fifty Armada Mother ships on Red Alert with preparations to get underway. Have the crews make ready for Wartime Cruising. I want all weapon systems checked and at the ready. We get underway in two hours.

Jake, tell Li Wei what has happened and that we are going after the Krea'ckh. They will die as they have killed the innocent, without mercy.

Jerome brief all flight crews, double the amount of Scouts and Destroyers on the Mother Ships from the other planet bases. If the Captains complain tell them the orders are from me.

Alexei, I ask that you coordinate all crew rescues, lost ships will be inevitable in this action. Work with the Armada Medical Officer, Dr. Carson he may have some useful ideas for you.

Mother, tell Paarth what we are about to do. Have him notify the Alliance and we request the help he promised. Tell the Ad'lph what we are about to do also, they can break off the surveillance and join us if they wish. They have a score to settle also. Notify the amassed fleets we will be underway and to rendezvous at the coordinates we had laid out earlier.

Set General Quarters thirty minutes before we get on station. Launch all ships when on station." I said..
"Dad, are the new Aegis repulsor shields tested and fully functional?" Gordon asked.

"Yes Gordon, Mother Ship Twelve tested theirs last week taking the ship through a meteor storm. It worked just as it was supposed to work. Theoretically they will absorb high-energy yield ship based blasters or particle accelerators." Father said.

"All the other ships are ready also. The crews are more than ready for action. The pilots and crews from Earth are ready too; they seem to be at their peak. Morale is very high throughout the Armada. " Jerome said.

"Mother I'm worried, should we leave all the children with the other ships? Should we take them with us?" I asked.

"Dear it has been traditional with us that the family unit was never to be separated for any reason. The Mother Ship's Computer monitors the locations where all the children and pregnant women are. Our suits that we wear will protect them from many of the hazards we may incur if the ship is badly damaged or destroyed.

With the new shields and firepower we have I see no reason to worry. I know, I know they said the Titanic was unsinkable. In our case every safeguard will be into place." Mother said coming to me and giving me a much-needed hug and a kiss on my forehead.

"Senora, I will be by your side at all times, do not be worried. Now please all of you eat." Carmen said taking my hand into hers.

Although everyone tried to reassure me, I was still a bit apprehensive. Shit, I was scared stiff! I was worried about the survival of my children and the children of the Armada. I had to make sure that all the safeguards were in place and that they worked.

I was worried that I would make the right decisions when the pressure was intense. I could not fail these people of the Urh'natau or the people of Earth. I wanted to go back, to forget about being a leader, returning to the peacefulness and safety of our house on the beach in California.

Gordon came to my side, placing his hand into mine saying, "It must be done. The gauntlet has been thrown at the feet of the Krea'ckh. We have challenged them to do battle. We are the champions of those that live, that died or will die. Tap into the courage of those that died at their hands. Remember those beings!"

I began to cry not from the fear, but from the anger that seeped from the words that Gordon spoke. He was right that those that died needed to be revenged. Justice needed to be served to those that had no remorse for what they had done.

"Mother, the order stands. The Krea'ckh will either surrender for justice to be served or be destroyed. I fear this will be the hardest order I will ever have to give to avenge those that have died it is the only way." I said through my sobs.

"Your logic and heart have spoken, dear daughter. The Alliance is at the ready!" Mother said wiping a tear from my cheeks and giving me a motherly kiss before hurrying out the door.

Chapter Fifty-two:

All preparations have been completed. The sadness was still heavy within me. I knew that there would be many on this journey that would not be coming back. If there was a way to avoid those deaths, I needed that revelation now.

The depression I felt was not good for me nor the babies that I carried. I had to have a clear mind and the ability to concentrate. For an unknown reason I decided to go to the arboretum and swim within the seawater pools.

I asked Carmen to stay with Lynn which she readily agreed to do. Gordon decided he would go with me, as he knew that this was the heaviest depressive state he had ever seen me in. I gladly welcomed his company, as I needed him to be with me.

We quickly made our way down the wooded path to the beach with its golden sands gleaming in the artificial sunlight. Our friends were there to greet us, we quickly disrobed and made our way to the waters edge.

Immediately I started to feel like my old self upon entering the waters and was greeted by the complete pod of dolphins. I sent my greetings to each of them by touching them all. The depressive veil I had seemed to lift, I was able to think clearly once again.

'Queen………well now……… Young growing………not feared…….soon is their time.' The leader of the pod communicated to us.

"Yes my friends, I am well now. The babies are doing well thanks to mother water and you." I said.

'Young will swim…………with Pod……….bear more young…………..All mothers……smile……….You…..blessed…..Ai…..mai……la……..Queen……..
young……. Mate……..blessed……..Ai…..mai…..la.'

"How can Aimaila bless us? Aimaila is dead when our planet died." Gordon said.

'No…………Ai……mai…….la…..here soon."

I must have had a look of bewilderment on my face.

"Are you saying that Queen Aimaila's spirit will come to us?" I asked.

'No………….Ai…….mai…….la………well……she………..speaks………… to pod. Queen ………..lives.'

I looked at Gordon with disbelief. It was then that I recalled the cryptic messages both mother and I received in our dreams.

"Gordon, could she possibly be alive?" I asked.

"I don't know, sweetheart. I just don't know. I mean that I sincerely hope so. It would mean so much to those in the Armada and to you. That would explain much of the mystery of those ships and the stasis chambers."

"Not to mention the wildlife and sea creatures." I said as I touched the baby dolphin lovingly about its blowhole.

My thoughts were thoughts of joy. As Gordon said it would be a joyous occasion if family members could be once again reunited. It was then that I also thought of the awkwardness by many members of this family reunion.

Many of the customs we had as a society had been changed to reflect our time on Earth. This could present problems to those used to the purity of Urh'natau culture. We are a resilient people, so I think that my worries are for naught.

"Gordon sweetheart, if Aimaila is alive, what are you going to do with two mother in laws?"

"I was just thinking about that. Maybe I could hide or change shape." Gordon said as he kissed me and then smiled while I feigned a pout on my face.

If anything that smile of his could melt my heart. As I have said so many times before, each day my love grows for him. I gave him another very long kiss just to show him I truly cared for him.

I felt my father's thoughts 'Your Majesties, we are near the appointed rendezvous coordinates. We are about to slow, would you please come to the Bridge.'

I acknowledged him and bid our friends adieu, as we walked from the water, out of the arboretum and to the anti grav pads.

All the way to the Bridge Gordon and I held each other's hands. Upon entering the Bridge we noticed that it had the bluish glow of electronic equipment lighting and each consoled had been manned which normally weren't. The manning of the consoles was a preventative measure, if the computers should become disabled. This was a normal setting for Wartime Cruising onboard all the ships of the Armada. These perhaps twenty-five men and women that manned those consoles were both from the Armada and Earth. Each member of the Bridge crew were all highly trained professionals in their own rite. They knew their jobs well and they each knew the equipment that they monitored.

We remained motionless, once my eyes had adjusted to lesser light, I noticed at once that the normal solid bulkheads up forward on the Bridge were now transparent. I saw the blackness and the vastness of space with its stars, planets and suns. Farther in the distance the colors that abounded from other star systems that merged. The Creator sure knew how to blend those vibrant colors that shone so majestically. I was in total awe of this picture.

"The view, it is Gorgeous!" I said aloud.

"The beauty of the universe is equaled to yours, sweetheart." Gordon said tightening his handhold of my hand.

I was tempted to kiss him but we had to maintain our propriety in front of all these people. Okay, If I could I'd make love to him on the spot. Hey, I'm only human and no, my hormones are not raging.

"Attention on deck! Royals are on deck!" a loud voice said.

We walked slowly to where my father, mother, Jake, Alexei, Jerome, Amanda, Daniel, Eve and Paul were gathered around a hovered holographic image. All of them stood rigidly at attention.

"Father please tell the crew to go back to work." I said softly.

"Bridge Crew, Carry on." He said loudly. The crew then went back to their duties.

When I looked at the holographic image I saw many blue spots that I later found out were the amassed ships of the Alliance. The total count now was over nine thousand ships that were larger or the close to the same size as our Mother Ships. There were several ships that could be even classified as planets.

"Admiral of the Gor'tha wishes to communicate." The computer said.

"Allow." My mother said.

"Admiral, we bid you greetings." Jerome said.

"As we do, High Premiers and Admirals. The fleet has been transferred to your command. May this operation be swift and just, our dead must be avenged."

"I thank you for the courtesy, Admiral. The Alliance justice will prevail, Admiral."

"Computer, send a message to the fleet, encrypt, ship movement orders; message follows: Urh'natau Mother Ship One now assumes the overall and tactical command of the Fleet.

Make all preparations to be underway in three hours.

The coordinates, duties and the positions of your ships have been sent to your computers." Jake said.

"Admirals, we have our orders and you have our thanks to allow the Gor'tha to participate."

Before anyone could say anything the Gor'tha disconnected. I was uneasy, there was a bit of deceit in the works that I sensed. I had to decide if I should tell what I sensed.

I didn't have to say a word as Alexei said it before me saying, "They intend to attack the Krea'ckh on their own. I think they feel they alone can defeat them."

"Alliance Intelligence said that the Admiral had a lengthily meeting with the Gor'tha leaders before leaving the homeworld. When the Admiral left he didn't seem too happy. Our guess is the Gor'tha fleet is on a suicide mission." Eve said sadly.

"That would seem logical, they do have another agenda such as revenge. They need to be monitored closely." My father said.

"Have the computer monitor them closely. Any deviation of course and speed, try to communicate first, then use any reasonable force to stop them without jeopardizing the fleet." Gordon said.

"Once we get one hour from those coordinates where the Krea'ckh are sound General Quarters throughout the fleet, have the fleet launch all ships, go to stealth all except for us. I want the Krea'ckh to think we are the only vessel approaching.

I want to contact and speak to them before we show the Fleet. Please keep the Gor'tha under control. The fleet presence is our ace in the hole. " Gordon said.

"I know the Gor'tha Admiral, do I have permission to speak to him?" Daniel asked.

"Father by all means, please see what you can do. What is our ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) to the Krea'ckh?" I asked.

"Fourteen hours to launch and fifteen point five hours to the Krea'ckh interception. Currently they are in the Cli'tariris System. There are no inhabitants, ten planets and two gas giants." Mother said.

"Jake and Jerome, Remember I want them totally surrounded. I want no escapes! I want them in an Alliance Tribunal Court to pay for their crimes." I said forcefully with determination.

With the completion of those words I turned and walked back to the anti grav pad with Gordon closely following.

Going down the grav pad Gordon took my hand into his. I was trembling before from the anger within me. I know he sensed my anger as we got off from the anti grav pad by saying, "Calm down sweetheart, they will all do their best. Every member of the Armada and the other Alliance ships are professional and seasoned space travelers."

My anger subsided as we entered our stateroom. When we entered I grabbed Gordon's ears and pulled him down so I could kiss him. I couldn't believe he was so in tune to my general emotional feelings, but he was.

"Now that's the woman I married. For a minute I thought you went over to the Dark Side." Gordon said as he kissed me again.

"I think it is time for me to leave you two alone." Carmen said jokingly.

We both motioned Carmen to sit and took seats next to each other. We told Carmen of what had happened with the Dolphin and the events up on the Bridge.

"I think that Eve is correct, the Gor'tha are on a suicide mission. If you leave them at the rear of the action they will disobey your orders and proceed on the road to their inevitable deaths." Carmen said as she brought us a snack.

"I would rather try to negotiate first." I said.

"Those creatures are beyond negotiation. They have a set agenda, to eradicate everything in their path. I am sure you will think of something to stop them." Carmen said.

Carmen and Gordon spoke to each other while I became very tired. I remember placing my head onto Gordon's shoulder, shutting my eyes to relax them, after that I must have fell asleep.

I awoke when the alarm klaxons went off throughout the ship, scaring the hell out of me. The lighting had changed in our stateroom to blue. I was dressed in my survival clothing in record time.

"Computer, ship's status. Location of King Gordon please."

"General Quarters, all stations manned and ready, on the Bridge."

"Computer, have Eve and Paul come to this stateroom. NNtify me when the Krea'ckh vessel is within human sight. Return normal lighting to this stateroom. Allow Eve and Paul to enter."

"Done."

I ran to Lynn in her room after hearing her screams of fear due to the loud noise. I picked her up into my arms to reassure her that all is fine, that mommy was there with her.

When I picked up Lynn the Klaxons ceased their shrill sounds that they made. I had her dressed quickly also. Lynn and I then went to the lounge area where she went back to sleep in my arms. She must have felt the safety that all babies feel with their parents holding them. I smiled at her cherubic face and bent to kiss her just as Eve and Paul entered.

"That's one hell of a sound to wake up to." I said as they came in.

"True but I guess it was necessary. Do you want tea?" Paul asked.

"Yes please and see if Carmen left anything to eat. I'm really hungry." I said while adjusting Lynn in my arms.

Eve and Paul finally sat down after getting the refreshments and the small talk finished.

"Other than what we have in the data banks, is there any other further information on the Krea'ckh that might be useful?"

"Not really, no one in the Alliance membership can remember what they look like. Although one of the members has said that they are insectoid, we had just found out, I think that bit of intelligence is true as the member that volunteered the information is a founding member, Fraepkt of Jukit."

"Computer, Fraepkt of Jukit please." I said.

"High Premiere, Greetings, could I be of some assistance?" A friendly looking black skinned, female, humanoid said.

"Greetings Fraepkt, I need information about the Krea'ckh. It appears that you are one of the few gentile beings that have ever seen them."

"Very well."

Fraepkt went on to describe the Krea'ckh in all detail. It appeared that these creatures were not only scavengers but slavers too. Once a slave was deemed useless they would eat the slave. Of course they would eat anything as a true scavenger.

They were indeed insectoid that was controlled by the mother of the nest. She would reproduce up to five hundred young in an egg sack attached to her lower abdomen and then later dropped. The young were cannibalistic and fed on the weak and unhatched eggs. The adults too were cannibalistic. I noticed that this was similar to an insect on Earth called a cockroach.

The water they stole was needed for the Krea'ckh population to survive. I imagined that the ship interior was damp and reeked of foul smelling odors.

I began to become uncomfortable with the descriptions of the conditions of the ship as well as the creatures themselves. Fraepkt managed to give some personal information that was also not previously known.

Fraepkt disclosed that she was once a crewmember on a Jukit Trader that was captured and digested by the Krea'ckh. The crew was captured and taken off the vessel first. The stench of the ship made them all sick until they got used to the smell.

She saw first hand the barbaric nature and arrogance of the Krea'ckh. The Krea'ckh seemed to philosophize that they were invincible. They pillaged technology and knowledge. They considered all the Galaxies theirs.

"Why haven't you disclosed this information before?" I asked

"It took me several of your Earth years to come to the terms of the atrocities I had seen. My dreams are still not undisturbed." She said.

"How did you escape from them?"

She explained that the Energy Shields of the ship did not overlap the quadrants of the ship, this was a design flaw. The space between the Shields was enough to fly a ship through directly to or from the hull. There were also hatches placed inside the shields that contained escape pods and hanger areas.

She and several hundred slaves managed to commandeer a spacecraft that they were to begin stripping for parts in an auxiliary hanger. The loss of life was great for the slaves but they escaped. It was at the ships launch that the computer found the gaps.

"Fraepkt I apologies for bringing those memories back to you. We know it was difficult." I said solemnly and apologetic.

"It was necessary, my regret was not to have told the Alliance earlier. May the Creator bless you all." Fraepkt said.

We bid her our farewells, ceasing communication with her.

"Could maybe two destroyers and a scout, breach their ship's shields and ship with boarding parties?"

"Oh no, Arlene! You have that look on your face." Eve said.

"What look? I'm just thinking to myself aloud."

Okay I wasn't just thinking out loud. I explained my idea to them; it was also my intention to go with the Boarding Parties. It took us approximately ten minutes to put this operation together.

The Alliance, Gordon, the High Elders and our staff were going to be very angry, not to mention both sets of our parents. I know that the amount of danger is extremely high and our survival factors looked very small. This risk to get the leader of the Krea'ckh to face justice seemed to be the only way without a massacre of the beings waiting in stealthed ships that have followed us. This also seemed a way to lessen the chance that the Gor'tha would be our 'Loose Cannons'.

Chapter Fifty-three:

After a promise of silence, I managed to get Carmen to stay with Lynn; she was very worried about my safety and the babies I carried. Once again I made sure that my survival suit was functioning before leaving the stateroom. I gave my daughter a very long motherly kiss and held her to my breast. I prayed this would not be the last time I saw her. Both Lynn and Carmen cried as I walked out the door. I had to insure that I returned.

Walking through the Passageways the ship felt deserted. At least there was activity when I came into the hanger. My Barge and another destroyer crew had just completed the preflight inspections with the sixty hand picked men and women chosen for this mission. Toward the rear of the Barge sat a Scout Ship that was also ready to leave. I walked toward the Barge seeing Irene and Al coming toward me, both of them didn't look happy.

"Arlene, you're not coming with us." Irene said angrily with her hands on her hips.

"Sorry Sis, but this is my mission too. Besides, I'm the queen." I said making her all the more angrier.

"Please be reasonable Arlene, think of the children your carrying." Al said softly.

"Both of you, listen to me and listen well, I am going and that's final. I know that all of you are well prepared for this mission but there are going to be challenges beyond your abilities."

"Sis, there are going to be some very pissed off people if and when we get back." Irene said.

"Yeah, and that includes Amanda."

"Oh crap, she's going to be the worst next to Tommy Junior!"

"And Gordon and Mother."

"You're going to be in some deep doo-doo, Sis."

We smiled as we joined, hugged and giggled. She was right but as I said and was taught, you must show the example as you lead. I had to lead by example how could I, in good conscience send someone on a mission as dangerous as this without me being there to assume some of that risk. Maybe some of Amanda's antics have rubbed off on me, Nah.

Before I left the Mother Ship I had to do one thing of importance.

"Computer, Command Zeno Theta one slant Command Protocol Override."

"Confirmed identity, Queen Arlene, voice command override."

"Computer, report all personnel are aboard including Queen Arlene, no ship launches, no ship location reports until notified by the Barge Computer data Uplink, No communications to launched Ships or Personnel are authorized. All logs will be maintained on the Barge until it has landed on Mother One. Command Zeno Theta one."

"Will Comply, Done."

"Okay Sis, let's find Eve and Paul."

We found them just as the briefing was about to commence in the Armory. I kept quiet as Eve and Paul gave the mission description and the objective to these brave people of the Armada and the Earth. Not a word or whisper was said during the entire briefing.

Next were the assignments of three teams. Al was to take one team and Eve and Paul were taking the other teams. Al and Paul were to seek out any other slaves of the Krea'ckh to release them and get them to safety. Eve was to lead her team to the Bridge. Once the Leader or Captain was found, the Scout would maneuver toward the Bridge and activate their Matter Transmitter to take the Krea'ckh Captain onboard for sedation and transport to Mother One and eventually to trial.

All the teams would then return to the Barge and Destroyer. The trick was that we would have to retain invisibility and try not to be discovered from the beginning of the mission to the end. These people and myself would be mentally and physically drained of our energy. Everyone was told to drink as much water as they could along with the energy capsules they carried.

The people in the Boarding Parties were slightly stunned when Eve announced that I was to be coming also. The feelings that I felt were mostly concern and later joy as they realized my empathic abilities, but I felt that there was much concern for the babies. They were also shocked that the entire ship had to be searched in thirty minutes.

I left the armory heading toward the direction of the ships that waited for us.

Getting closer to the Barge I saw my backup pilot Caroline and Daniel, my father in law. Shit, I was caught now! How was I going to explain!

They both saw me and began to walk toward me. Daniel had a frown instead of the normal smile on his face.

"Arlene, I should have know when the flight status board on the Bridge didn't show the Barge, a destroyer and a Scout in the hanger bay. Okay, give up the info."

I told him everything that we planned. I wasn't going to tell a lie because those lies come back and bite you in the ass.

I went deeper into the plans we made; his skeptical look became a look of admiration.

"I won't say a word to anyone because I'm going too." Daniel said.

"But Father………….."

"Don't father, me Arlene. I'm going too as your engineer. I can run the sensor scans without the Krea'ckh even knowing we're there or the fleet. Besides who else can keep the computers from snitching? You do know we will be crucified if they find out on the Bridge? Oh lord, Amanda! She'll cut me off for a year!"

I had to giggle at his last remark setting both of us laughing.

"I'll handle mother when we get back; can you get us out of the hanger bay in Stealth?"

"No problem, although it never has been done before. I'll never share the secret with the other engineers on how to do it. The Flight Computer has to be tricked into thinking we're off the Mother Ship."

"Why?"

"You know, Flight Safety Rules. We can also bypass those easily. Just don't tell Amanda or Jerome how I do it."

"Okay father, oh, here come the troops." I said.

It was decided that the two search teams would go into the one destroyer. The Bridge search team would go into the Barge and be the first to enter and dock. Irene would go with the Scout and operate the Matter Transmitter and sedate the Krea'ckh Leader.

All I could do was to say a brief prayer to the Creator, as I walked up the Barge's ramp entering the blue lighted interior. I took a seat in a console chair on the Bridge of the Barge telling the computer to restrain my pregnant body to the chair.

Eve took our team to several of the ready room compartments to check their weapons. Eve returned and lay on the console chair beside me but not before attaching a new holster and weapon to my utility belt.

Since I had already sealed myself into my suit and helmet prior to laying down I knew that I was connected to the computer and crew.

'Caroline, let's go. Father, Stealth mode please.' I said.

I told the ship's computer to allow me to see the ship's launch. The ship silently took aboard the boarding ramp, at the same time the airlock hatches sealed themselves. It was still amazing to me how silent and lack of motion these ships had.

I saw the ship's nose point toward the open vastness of space. The next thing I knew we had become a part of that blackness traveling faster than a bullet fired from an Earth style percussion pistol.

'See Arlene, I told you we could launch in stealth. The Krea'ckh shields have been scanned and plotted. We're heading to their Hanger Bay hull maintenance hatch. We should dock in two minutes. I'll have the hatch open in thirty seconds be ready to move.' Daniel said in my mind.

I already saw Eve getting out of her console chair, I was right behind her. I said another prayer as I got up noticing that our team had already assembled near our hatch.

Daniel walked around to each crewmember, checking to see if their suits were sealed before going to the hatch and opening it.

The ship had already depressurized to allow an easy opening of the hatch. This than allowed him to place a short tunnel to join the ships together so that he could open the Krea'ckh hatch.

As he said, he had their hatch open in thirty seconds which included disarming the open door sensors that would alert the Krea'ckh Bridge.

'Concentrate and maintain your de-materialization. Queen Arlene do you sense any movement?' Eve asked.

I had to let my mind use the skills that I had been trained to use. I slowly became transparent and I sensed nothing empathetically.

'It's clear'

We all ran from the Barge to the Krea'ckh ship entering its darkness. With the help of my suit I was able to see but with each step I took I felt my fear creeping about to close in on me.

To allay my fears I looked briefly around me, the ship was filthy with mold or something greenish black and alive clinging onto the bulkheads. I was thankful for the suit I was wearing so I didn't have to smell anything around me. It was bad enough it looked bad, I bet it smelled even worse.

Cautiously we made our way through the passageways. I could sense our other Boarding Parties making their way through the ship. I also sensed something that could not be described coming from several decks up and forward.

We saw much debris scattered about that included what appeared to be shells or the remnants of exoskeletons as we walked slowly and cautiously to our destination. At one point we saw what was left of what appeared to be a crushed humanoid skull

Where was the crew? Where were the Krea'ckh? I felt the presence of the slaves and the fear they felt.

'Paul, Al, your targets are three levels down port and starboard sides. Eve, I think our target is four decks up and forward.'

Because of the confusing emotions I was getting I called Daniel on the Barge.

'Father can you scan the ship for life signs without triggering their alarms?'

'Sure, standby.'

While we waited for Daniel's scanning results we creeped slowly to where I felt the emotions where coming from.

'Arlene, you're close to one lifesignnthat is a Krea'ckh. Al and Paul have reached their destinations. There are no other Krea'ckh lifesigns onboard that vessel.'

How could that be? I felt the hairs on my neck stand. I felt danger!

'Eve, the Krea'ckh is coming!'

We all but run forward to what was the Bridge. Fortunately the size of the Bridge was immense so we could all spread out. What followed us could only be described as the largest Cockroach I had ever seen. It stood upright being over seven feet tall with a girth of all of five feet. It barely made it through the hatchway with its mandibles clicking on its ugly mouth and antennae twitching on its bulbous head. It appeared that it was tired as it moved, dragging behind something that looked to be part of its internal organs. The thought struck me that this was the mother and she had just dropped her egg sack.

Could she have killed and eaten the former crew? I wouldn't doubt it!

'The slaves are free. Ninety seven hundred and fifty on the Port side. We have them loaded into escape pods.'

'The slaves are free on the Starboard side. Same count as Al. They are ready to launch.'

The Krea'ckh was indeed tired. It went to the instrument console and pressed a few buttons. It was then that I saw where Eve was standing that she began to move slowly toward the hatch we had entered. I saw the rippling of the bent light, which was the only indicator that we had to monitor each other. The Krea'ckh remained busy at the console as Eve slipped out the hatch and into the Passageway.

I had no idea where she was going or what she had planned to do. I was afraid to use our gift of telepathy to communicate with her. I was in total abject fear! We each saw the remains of her kind and those of many humanoids walking through the many passageways.

It was then that the Krea'ckh pressed an object near her mandibles.

"You have breached my ship's security. I know where each of you are, you are at whatever mercy I seem fit to give you. Show yourselves now!" the electronic almost human sounding voice, said.

I almost lost it! I almost let the fear overwhelm me. My bladder almost released as well as my bowels. I began to shake from the fear.

Slowly I regained my composure placing the fear to the back of my mind. Gradually I became fully in control of my body. I glanced around and saw that the rest of the team was still as they were, invisible to the eye. I decided to expose myself, as this was the only way to protect the others.

Just as I was ready to come to terms with my fate the Krea'ckh control panels came to life getting the attention of the seven foot roach.

I became visible and motioned silently for the team to leave the Bridge. These seasoned professionals probably didn't like to leave me alone but they did as I told them to do. I remained visible to distract the Krea'ckh from their leaving. I was ignored as the Krea'ckh attended to the excitedly lit consoles.

"Okay, I'm here! As far as your mercy is concerned you have none, on the other hand, I am here to serve justice to a murderer." I said almost yelling over the din.

"Ah, the puny one shows herself. I will attend to you shortly. In the meantime review your life as you will die soon."

"No I think not, you will see the justice of the Alliance this day. You should be the one reviewing your murderous life. Killer of planets!"

I must have got the very large roaches attention. It turned around very swiftly and spewed a substance from its mouth that probably smelled worse than the ship did. I moved from the liquids path very quickly avoiding it.

The liquid hit the deck plating, I saw that the materials the decking was made from began to smoke making hissing and popping noises. I thank my blessings that I had this survival suit on when I saw the reaction the vomitus had on the deck. My first thoughts were it was an acid she vomited. I had to stay out of the Krea'ckh's range. But, what was that range?

"That was a warning puny one. Do not anger me! I must keep my thoughts focused." The Krea'ckh said.

"What thoughts? You have a very insignificant brain to comprehend the technology around you." I said ready to move quickly to avoid the acid.

Nothing happened, I was being ignored, why? The answer was evident when I saw out the viewing ports of the Krea'ckh Bridge. A Wormhole Portal had opened directly in front of the Krea'ckh ship, possibly three hundred nautical miles or closer, Dead Ahead. If the Krea'ckh did not compensate for the graviton anomalies the ship would be destroyed or crushed as it was being drawn into it shields or not.

My thoughts yelled, ' Get off this ship, now. Abandon Ship! Wormhole Dead Ahead!'

'Arlene, get off of that ship! Dad, get her off, now!' Gordon's thoughts rolled like thundered through my mind.

I felt very strange as if every molecule in my body was being pulled and rearranged. I was about to lose consciousness! What the hell was happening! I saw the Bridge of the Krea'ckh vessel disappearing as it lost its shape of three dimensionality. I closed my eyes. I no longer felt the solid deck under my feet, or felt the clothing on my body. Oh shit, I died! Or so I thought opening my eyes again after feeling the pins and needles of all feeling leaving. I was once again feeling the survival suit on my skin and my feet on the solid deck.

My mind finally registered that I was no longer on the Krea'ckh ship but instead on the Barge. I guess it was the shock to my system was too great as I lost the veil of consciousness.

Chapter Fifty-four:

I relived the manifestation that I dreamed of, I was once again on the Krea'ckh ship, that horrendous creature and the vile vomit. The vastness of the Wormhole that the Krea'ckh ship was heading for, all the alarms. Every event that I witnessed rolled on through my mind. I relived every emotion that I had, including the fear I felt, the loss of family, husband and children. My babies that I carried that would never be born. I gradually returned to consciousness.

I felt the feeling of a hand holding mine very tightly. Opening my eyes slowly I saw that I was not onboard the Krea'ckh ship, the Barge or Mother Ship One. Slowly turning my head on the bed I saw it was Gordon that was holding me.

I tried to speak at first but nothing came out. My first concern was not for myself but for the lives of my babies.

"Shush dear, relax, don't say anything. I love you." Gordon said as he bent over and kissed me.

"You gave us a fright, but you're with us again. The babies are fine and so is Lynn. Close your eyes and sleep to regain your strength." Gordon said again as he kissed my hand.

When he kissed my hand I felt the wetness on his cheeks as he laid his head onto my breast. I managed to move my other hand and stroked his cheek just to let him know that I cared for him and that I loved him deeply.

The tiredness was once again affecting me, allowing my eyelids to close. The darkness of sleep came back once again and this time with no dreams.

When I awoke again, Daniel was there. He saw that my eyes had opened and ran from the room. Looking about the room, I noticed that it was as large as our entire stateroom. I was confused! Slowly I arose from the bed to stand up. At least I didn't have anything stuck in or monitoring me. I was in a gorgeous nightgown of pink lace and satin that exposed the top of my breasts and flowed around my immense belly to the tops of my small swollen feet. I never saw this gown before and I knew it wasn't mine.

I tried to move my feet and was rewarded with a slow shuffling motion. I moved to a chair that held a robe and on the floor were a pair of mules that looked to be my size. Putting the robe on and the mules I maneuvered to the doorway. I smelt food!

In the gigantic lounge there sat a tray loaded with all kinds of seafood delicacies that I loved. My thoughts turned to Carmen, I thought it really sweet of her to bring this here, wherever here was. As I ate the food it was good but not the style of Carmen's cooking as it was rich but not as highly spiced as she made it. Still it was something to eat and I was hungry. So hungry and thirsty in fact I didn't leave a morsel on the plate or a drop of liquid in the teacup.

I haven't spoke a word since I awoke, I needed to have answers since no one was around. It finally clicked into my brain that there might be a computer available.

"Computer, Location of Gordon, Please."

"Who is Gordon, dear?" It said in a sultry but nasal New Yorker female voice.

"What the hell did my father in law do to this damn computer now?" I said under my breath.

"Computer, Locations of King Gordon, Princess Lynn, Iris, Amanda, Tommy Sr. and Daniel.

"Sweetie, those names don't ring a bell."

I was mad now saying, "Computer, Command Zeno Theta one slant Command Protocol Override."

"Listen sweet cheeks, there ain't no such command code, now buzz off dearie."

That's it! Now I was pissed! That arrogant, damn computer! I'll ring Daniel and Amanda's necks for this shit, the audacity of them to pull this off using a bitchy computer.

I was not amused! The energy flowed as my anger increased. I had to control it or wherever I was would not exist. There was only one alternative to this situation and that was to get dressed and find them all and ring their necks.

I felt like my old self as I ran or shall I say waddled to the bedroom I was in. Going to the closet I found a purple colored gown with a dark red and white sash trimmed with purple. There was also matching purple lingerie and purple flat-soled shoes. On the shelf next to the lingerie was the crown that Gordon had had made for me.

"Okay, the fat lady will get dressed and play your game. Your asses are mine whoever you are! First a shower." I said to myself.

Somehow I managed to find the bathing area. The shower was just like ours on Mother Ship One.

"Computer, Shower, water, hot."

"Well at least the water came on without the sassy computer giving me the bird this time." I said as I went into the stall.

The water refreshed and recharged me. Now I really felt like my old self. The computer shut the spray off and I dried off.
My thoughts strayed to that awful ship, that creature, I shuddered and pushed those thoughts into the recesses of my mind.

In the bedroom I dressed silently first putting on my lingerie and stockings. I found makeup and applied it and did my hair piling up on my head. I heard the opening of the stateroom doors and the soft mechanical sounds of something coming closer to my location.

Looking toward the bedroom door I saw nothing until I dropped my eyes lower seeing something mechanical and motorized coming toward me. It was square and ran on treads and had two mechanical arms about two point five feet tall. On the top there was a triangular sensor array. Where the hell was I? This sure as hell wasn't my ship! Unless of course Amanda and Daniel were playing with an erector set and built R2D2 here.

"Queen Arlene, when dressed I am to take you to your husband, King Gordon." The robot said in a human quality voice.

"Ah………Okay, I'll be ready in a few minutes." I said than realizing that this computer knew who Gordon was.

What the hell is all this secrecy crap, I thought. Well at least I would be going to Gordon's side. But I'll skin his mother and father alive for this snotty assed bitch of a ship's computer, I thought as I finished getting dressed.

As I placed my crown on my head I said, "Let's go, I'm ready." To the half-pint, but polite robot.

It turned around and stayed about four feet in front of me. I was taken through passageways and anti grav pads that were not familiar to me. After approximately ten minutes of walking we enter a very regally decorated foyer.

The robot stopped saying, "Queen Arlene, please wait here. Someone will be here shortly." Turning around it then left the foyer leaving me alone.

Standing, waiting there I looked around there was nowhere to sit. It was obvious that this room was a waiting room for state functions. But whose? Where am I? A theatrical debut?
I doubt it!

As I stood one of the babies kicked taking me by surprised.

"Are you alright, dear" Gordon said as he ran to me, wrapping me in his arms and kissing me. He was dressed, as he was when we married. My Adonis!

I immediately forgot about the kick. It was funny that I seemed larger now. I looked as though I was close to term. I knew I could withstand anything as long as we were together. I vowed that we would never be apart from each other or the children. Never again would I do anything as stupid as what I did. I was in the arms of my mate, lover, husband and the father of my children. This was and is the joy that every woman should feel.

"Gordon, I love you too, but where are we?" I asked as I came up from a kiss to take a breath.

"Sweetheart, I can't tell you, I made a promise but you'll soon see."

"Don't tell me that I'm in trouble for the stunt I pulled?"

"Darling, all I can say is that you will see shortly."

This response made me start to worry.

"Darling, please stop worrying. I made a pledge not to tell. They wanted this to be a surprise."

"Who wanted to surprise me? Why? We did what we or I felt was a necessary boarding. We didn't now about the prisoners. My mistake was in not telling you. I'm so sorry, do you forgive me?"

The answer of course was a loving kiss by Gordon and to keep me quiet.

"Your Highness, King Gordon, please enter." A man said wearing a uniform I had never seen before.

Gordon gave me one last loving kiss before he turned and entered through the door the man held open. As Gordon passed the man became rigidly erect and bowed at the waist.

After Gordon had left me the door was once again closed. My curiosity about what was on the other side started to get the best of me. I listened at the door and heard nothing. I tried to open the door and it wouldn't open.

Standing away from the door I was about ready to use my energy to demolish the door when the door opened.

"Your Highness, Queen Arlene your presence is requested." The same man said doing to me what he did to Gordon.

Coming to the doorway I heard someone pound a staff three times on the deck saying, "All rise for the queen. Queen Arlene of the Urh'natau people of earth, Queen of the Armada. High Premiere of the Galactic Alliance."

While the man with the staff yelled those words another man in uniform offered me his arm to escort me. I needed it as the room……no more like a stadium, was packed to capacity with many members of the Alliance, Armada and Earth.

While we walked slowly the crowd opened a path for us, women curtsied and men bowed. There was music playing somewhere that was majestic if not a bit militaristic in style.

I felt as if we had walked more than a mile when the crowd still continued to allow us to pass. In front of myself and my escort was a clearing with three thrones with the middle throne's back the highest and on a platform.

I now had serious questions, which I didn't have a chance to ask. Gordon stepped from the side and took my arm from the escort after bowing to me. I almost broke up laughing as I recalled Gordon sitting in our house in California in his underwear on the couch, smoking a good stinky cigar, eating potato chips, drinking beer and watching sports on the television. He was the epitome of the slobbish husband all we women make fun of. I guess you can take a slob and turn him into a prince or a king, I did. Gordon then escorted me to the center throne while he stood to my right side.

Once again there was the sound of three strikes of the staff on the flooring, the man then yelled," All rise for the Queen Mother. Queen Aimaila of the Urh'natau people of earth, Queen Mother of the Armada and the Urh'natau Fleet. Former High Premiere of the Galactic Alliance."

I was to say the least overjoyed. I had always wondered about Aimaila, now she would get to know us all. Since this was basically a public gathering I had to maintain a decorum to this assembly.

Aimaila came closer to us wearing a fabulous blue gown and a gold crown engraved with dolphins. Aimaila was identical to me in every way except for age and hair coloring shade. She was about my birth mother's age and my hair was just a bit lighter. As a matter of fact she could be the twin of my birth mother, Iris. Wait a minute, could that be? Well they are sisters. Jake Filipowski of Earth escorted Aimaila to me where she curtsied very low as Jake bowed deeply.

I broke decorum and went to Aimaila taking her hands into mine. Both she and I cried, kissed and hugged. This was my donor mother, if it wasn't for her, destinies or past events might have changed or never have happened. When we came apart I said to her, "Thank You." Just like what my Birth Mother would have done she smiled and winked. Jake then escorted Aimaila to my left side and stood.

I looked over to Gordon and Aimaila and sat as graciously as I could. The crowd stirred to the left of me and I saw Paarth coming forward to eventually stand before us.

"Your Highnesses, I stand before you as a friend as you have always been there for me, now the Alliance must call you friend as you have been there for all beings.

I have been requested by the Gor'tha leaders to have them come forward to speak at this assembly.

I slowly nodded my head to signify yes to Paarth.

Slowly two slightly built, older men that were humanoid in appearance came forward.

"Your Highnesses, I am the leader of the Gor'tha, my name is Maak and this is Admiral Lee'ad. We thank you and all of the Alliance for freeing and returning the survivors of our ships that were captured and destroyed by the Krea'ckh.

Our Council on Gor'tha has asked me to ask you and the Alliance forgiveness. We intended to avenge our people by crashing our ships into the Krea'ckh ship. It has been brought to our attention, by the Armada engineeres, that the collisions of our ships would have been futile.

It gives us pleasure that the Krea'ckh have been dealt with in a manner that no blood is on the hands of the Alliance. Let this example be a warning to those that wish to break the peace and our laws.

We of the Gor'tha wish to honor those men and women of the Urh'natau and Earth that freed our imprisoned people with these decorations."

The admiral came forward with an aide holding a tray.

"Very well sir, Sir Paul and Lady Eve, Sir Daniel please assemble the Barge, Destroyer, Scout and Rescue team crews." I said.

I was proud as the crews received those decorations they deserved them. I haven't decided as to what reward I will give them next; they all saved my ass too.

I was slightly surprised as the Admiral came to me asking for permission to pin what appeared to be a recreation of a solar system onto my sash. I quietly tried to explain that the others where truly the heroes and not me, I was ignored.

I looked at and around at my gathered family being very embarrassed; all I saw was immense pride as I blushed.

"I thank you the representatives of the Gor'tha on behalf of those that participated in the operation. The freeing of your people was an added reward to an operation that was implemented to save as many lives as we could in the Alliance.

I wanted the Krea'ckh to face justice for their crimes against all gentle beings. I failed to do that. I…………….."

"I beg your pardon for interrupting you Your Highness." My Birth Mother, Father and Paarth came forward before us.

"Grand Duchess Iris and Grand Duke Thomas, why are you interrupting your Queen? Has court courtesy diminished so, since I've been gone?" Aimaila asked.

"We are sorry but there is information that the Queen has not been told and no, courtesy has not left the court, my sister."

I had to admit Mother had a set of Cast Iron Boobs to speak as she did to Aimaila. I couldn't help but have admiration for her.

"Please state what you must say to all in attendance." Gordon said.

"Thank you Sire, Queen Arlene because of the delaying tactic you did on the Krea'ckh Bridge the prisoners where saved.

This ship of Queen Aimaila's created the Wormhole. It drew the Krea'ckh ship into it, it was realized by her and her crew that that would be the only way to destroy that ship." Iris my birth mother said.

"The loss of life in the fleet would have been devastating. Armada Engineer, Grand Duke Daniel was contacted by Queen Aimaila's ship to transfer you to this vessel via a Scout Ship while he and your other vessels retrieved the Boarding Parties." Tommy Sr. said.

"The Krea'ckh and their ship of destruction are no longer, thanks to your delaying tactics which have been recorded and archived.

You, the Queen of the Urh'natau and High Premier, Arlene, have shown vast amounts of courage and tenacity in the face of great danger. You have proved yourself to be a loyal leader that is concerned for all life." Paarth added.

Eve then came forward and curtsied to us saying, "Your Highnesses, Because of Queen Arlene's action I was given the time to destroyed the Krea'ckh's eggsack just as the young were hatching. All of us would have died before the Krea'ckh if I did not get to the hatchlings in time. Queen Arlene gave me and our team that time that was needed."

"Due to an abrupt part failure the Urh'natau almost lost a queen and our babies. Because of medical science and the skills of Dr. Carson, Queen Arlene and our babies are here today. Queen Arlene, my wife and mate you have been in a induced coma for two of Earth's months and she is close to term, that is why you think of yourself as larger." Gordon said taking my hand into his again.

No wonder I thought I was bigger, I actually was. Two months, in a coma, no sex. Not Acceptable! I'll have to do something about that, later, and I did let Gordon know about that too

"Once the Krea'ckh ship was destroyed, Queen Mother Aimaila made it known that she was alive by arriving on this vessel that originally contained the stasis chambers that Queen Arlene correctly deduced, contained our people and wildlife, before the destruction of our homeworld." Grand Duke Daniel added.

"Due to unanticipated circumstances due to a computer malfunction many survivors of the planet still lost their lives such as my consort but still many survived thanks to the people of the Armada.

But still we are without a homeworld. We thank the people of Earth and the Alliance for all their help in combating a foe that will not be missed nor mourned.

Yes, those before you are heroes but all of the Alliance are heroes too.

Long Live the Galactic Alliance! Long live the age of reason, peace, knowledge and trade! Let us all celebrate our victory." Aimaila said smiling.

The crowd cheered wildly, the Alliance had survived, and our babies and I had survived. I needed now to be with my family; my time was very near for my babies to come into a universe of peace and harmony.

Gordon and I kissed to the delight of the beings gathered. I wanted him so badly but now was neither the time nor the place. Besides the babies began a drum tattoo inside of me. Well I guess we have their approval.

Carmen came forward handing Lynn to me. As soon as she saw me she had her little arms opened for me to hold her. She had grown larger since I saw her two months ago. I cried as I kissed her and held her to my breast.

This ship and the entire fleet celebrated with wine, feasting and music to be joined by the Alliance. What had befell the Krea'ckh was a lesson to those that thought to follow in their path.

While the beings celebrated, I tried to have a brief chat with everyone while seated, under the advisement of Dr. Carson and the insistence of Gordon and Carmen.

Those three knew how to keep me quiet, they fed me. Carmen had prepared my favorite foods, making sure I ate. I was in a blissful state of feeding my face, my favorite pastime.

I must have had a strange look on my face after I ate. I was suddenly overwhelmed with concerned beings looking after my welfare. Dr. Carson ran a scan on me and declared me to be taken to Sickbay as quickly as possible.

Okay, so I left a mess. My waterbag broke and I had been ignoring the pains I felt, I was into heavy Childbirth Labor. Oy, the pain! I'm going to kill Gordon for knocking me up!

Chapter Fifty-five:

I must have called Gordon and every male, names that could not be repeated. I saw several males cringe as I called the males of our species most inappropriate names each time I had a contraction. Those males kept a safe distance from me, at arms length. They even protected their sexual reproductive organs with metal trays. Come here boys! Mama wants those things that swing in a sack between your legs.

The contractions increased and I was fully dilated. I yelled fiercely through clinched teeth, "C'mon kids, out damnit! Mamas calling you!"

The first baby crowned. I felt as if I was splitting in half as I bared down, breathed harder and bared down again. The baby was out!

I heard the baby cry as the next was coming. I followed Dr. Carson's instructions doing just what I did before. I pushed when I was told to push. I heard the second baby cry. Okay two down and one to go! I was exhausted.

Thank the Creator the last child started to come. I again did as the doctor screamed for me to do, I pushed. I pushed hard!
The poor kid was lucky not to have taken a flying lesson with me pushing so hard. The last child was out! I cried for joy as there were no more coming. Now I could relax. Yeah, Sure.

We had two girls and a boy. I felt sorry for my poor son, he was going to go through hell growing up having three sisters to make his life miserable. My concern was mainly that they were all healthy, happy comes later. I was assured they all were.

I was drenched in perspiration as I was handed each of my newborns. They were small but as I said healthy. I kissed each of them as they took me from the Birthing room to a resting room.

It had a party atmosphere there, the family had gathered. Gordon, my Father, Daniel, Tommy Jr., Jake, Alexei and Jerome kept at a safe distance. Wow, I guess word does travel fast!

I called Gordon over to me and gently kissed him. He then knew everything was okay and I was back to normal. As all the female members came around to view the babies then the men came after they lost their fear of me. I smiled weakly at the babies.

As I said I was tired but as I gazed at our babies sleeping in my arms, my love was there for them. I called for Iris, Amanda and Aimaila asking if they each wanted to hold one of the babies, after all they were also their grandchildren as was Lynn. Each of them took a baby into their arms; they each had the look of joy, contentment and happiness.

Tommy Jr., as the uncle had made sure that the Fleet and the entire Alliance saw the babies cradled in the arms of my mothers. All the Alliance celebrated all the more and harder.
Our people of the Armada celebrated the hardest.

Those poor babies were passed to all those gathered in that room, until Dr. Carson told everyone to let us all rest and for them to leave. He only allowed Gordon to stay while Amanda, Aimaila and Iris took Lynn to be with them. The babies were placed into bassinets next to my bed.

"Darling, you did it, I love you so much. They're all so beautiful, like their mother." He said before he kissed me.

"This has been one hell of a day. I wake up from a deep sleep for two months, in a ship I don't recognize, no one around to help me, find out my donor mother is alive, get awards, have a party and go into labor, give birth to triplets and want to rip my husbands testicles off. So now what? I know have more babies or have fun making them. Are you up to it?" I asked.

"Sweetheart, is that you talking or the hormones still raging?"

"It's all me baby, all me!" I said smiling.

In reality I was sore and tired but I wanted to yank Gordon's chain as only I could do. Maybe in several weeks I might give him a thrill but now, I don't think so.

"Oh no, I know that look, get some sleep. Mom said if you need help have the computer call us." Gordon said.

"Oh,……. No! There's no possible way I'm using that thing. That is the sassiest computer I've ever heard. It sounds like Fran Dressler. If it was a real woman I'd rip her hair out."

"That bad……… Huh."

"If you don't believe me listen."

"Computer, Aimaila's location, please."

"Hi sweetie, she's in a meeting and can't be disturbed."

"You see what I mean?"

"If I hadn't heard it myself I would have said you were having an episode."

"Wait listen to this, Computer, Command Zeno Theta one slant Command Protocol Override."

"Listen sweet cheeks, I told you before earlier, there ain't no such command code, now buzz off dearie."

"I don't believe what I heard. I'll have dad look at the computer. In the meantime use this Comm Unit it goes through our ship computer to our Armada personnel."

"Okay dear, I love you."

"As I and all of us." He said as he kissed me and left the room.

Within minutes I was asleep. I was too tired to dream and I slept soundly. The medical personnel and our family saw that the children were well taken care of so I could rest.

Grandmas, Aimaila, Amanda and Iris saw to it that Lynn was well cared for while renewing familial ties. Besides, Aimaila gave her all the attention she wanted. Me, I slept!

Gradually I woke after a sound sleep only to find Aimaila, Iris and Amanda asleep in the lounge chairs in the room. All of them were clothed in robes, slippers and nightgowns. They must have come in sometime while I slept.

I picked up the comm unit that Gordon gave me saying, "Computer on Mother Ship One. Please notify Carmen to make breakfast for four in my room on Aimaila's ship. Bypass that computer, please."

"Done" the comm unit responded.

I estimated we had about thirty minutes before breakfast. That was enough time for me to clean up, which I needed to do.

I found a clean robe, slippers, a clean nightgown and towels. Next was to the bathroom. I still hurt and hurt more as I relieved and cleaned myself. The shower was great, even if a sassy computer controlled it.

While I showered I thought of how much Aimaila and Iris looked like each other. Then it struck like a lightning bolt in the ass. They're twins! Identical! And I looked to be a younger version of the both of them. I was the one that looked more like them than any of my other siblings.

I finished my shower and dried off. I turbaned my hair as I left the bath. I thought that I was lucky to resemble them both, as they are both gorgeous.

"Why didn't you ask for help, dear?" Amanda asked sleepily.

"You were asleep and I thought you needed it." I said.

Before anyone could say anything else Carmen entered with the food I requested. I was in heaven when I took the lid off the plate. Huevos Rancheros!

"Carmen you made my day!"

"Senora, it was the least I could do. I was surprised when our ship contacted me."

"Our ship?" Amanda asked.

"Listen; Computer, Command Zeno Theta one slant Command Protocol Override."

"Listen sweet cheeks, there ain't no such command code, now buzz off dearie. I ain't gonna answer youse no mores."

I heard Amanda and Carmen giggle joined by Aimaila and Iris.

"That damned arrogant computer really got to me yesterday. It didn't even know who any of you where."

"Is that accent from Earth? It sounds funny. I have been trying to get back to date. I've missed so much." Aimaila asked.

"It sounds like New York City, maybe the South side of Chicago. I know it's still learning but that accent is bad and the voice it chose is worse. " Amanda said.

"Carmen, do you cook like this all the time?" Aimaila asked changing the subject.

"Si Senora, I hate the taste of the prepared foods from the Repliwhatsyamacallit."

"Replicator, it's called a Replicator." Amanda said.

"Si, like I just said."

"The Armada has the best trained Chefs in the Alliance thanks to Carmen. The Crews eat more in the Galleys than in their staterooms. She always has something new to serve us, morale has increased due to her skills." Iris said.

Aimaila shocked me when she started to speak to Carmen in her native tongue and dialect of her homeland, Spain. I had that stupid look on my face again as Carmen answered Aimaila. I have always had trouble with languages due to what some linguists call a lazy tongue, that was why I always used the computer or telepathy. I saw the surprise and pleasure that was on Carmen's face as she spoke to Aimaila.

"Arlene, what's wrong now?" Iris asked.

"Nothing, I was surprised that's all."

"You will have the same ability to communicate, we all do. It just hasn't developed yet. That was one of the reasons that we were able to blend into the various nations of Earth." Iris said.

"Daughter, You're still young and haven't fully experienced all the gifts we have." Aimaila said.

"Dearie, you have visitors." The computer said.

"That damn insolent computer, allow. Please fix it!" I said.

"I'll have your Fathers do that today." Amanda said.

The door opened to allow Li Wei, Jake and Alexei to enter the room. Each of them had their arms full of gifts for the babies and me. They all came to me to congratulate me on the births and gave me a hug after placing the gifts down wherever they could find room. They each gazed lovingly at the babies, which were sleeping soundly. Carmen of course handed them all very full plates of food.

"These are just a few gifts Li Wei brought from Earth. By our last report the Earth is still celebrating along with the entire Alliance." Jake said between bites of the food on his plate.

"Li Wei, Jake and Alexei, I want you to meet my other mother Aimaila. She was the one that saved our butts. Mother these three are our friends from Earth that have helped us in so many ways. We do have many more friends there but these are just very special to me." I said.

Li Wei, Jake and Alexei formally bowed to Aimaila.

Aimaila greeted each in the language of their births. This immensely pleased our friends and made them more relaxed.

"Arlene, How are you feeling?" Li Wei asked as she held my hand after laying her plate down.

"Like my old self, only thinner and with less weight. What brought you all the way out here, wherever out here is."

"Well, first I have a few questions for Aimaila." Li Wei said.

This was the first time I saw the look of puzzlement on the Mother Terrors in my room. This was great! At least I knew my looks of stupidity were hereditary.

"Are you planning to stay with your daughter? To reunite the people of Urh'natau?"

"Paarth has said he knows of several planets on the other end of the galaxy that were suitable for colonization. We had hoped the Armada Ships and people would join us.

Iris, Amanda and I have spoken with each other, they said that I needed to be with the families. They both said that I needed to be with those that don't know me. They also said that Arlene was a handful to control." Aimaila said looking at me directly.

"Well we have several planets that are available too. What I mean to say is that many of the Armada have made their homes on Earth, the babies were born and raised there. Many, many of them married Earth humans. We have the space and there is even more space for colonization on the new Terra Formed planets.

Since we, meaning the Earth, have been asked to help the Urh'natau to maintain the peace in the Alliance, we would gladly have you live amongst us and work with you. We have begun to think of the Urh'natau as family and not as our benefactors."

"I see that Arlene has learned the diplomatic ways and has let her heart guide her in the choosing of friends. She has chosen well.

Our cultures are different, our sociological structure is different, this might present problems."

"So are the cultures and sociology of the nations of Earth. Because of the Urh'natau, we are at peace."

"Computer, message to the Urh'natau Fleet and Armada, Message Follows: Lay course to the Solar System Sol at maximum speed. Our destination is Earth and Mars. Our home!" I said.

"Sorry dearie, I can't do that you don't have access." The computer said.

That's it! That computer's data banks were mine. I'll find that memory core and choke it!

"Calm down dear, learn and listen, Computer, Override, Omega Psi one." Iris said softly.

"Hey, youse too! Up yourz! Buzz off, Baby!"

I had to laugh as mother turned different shades of red. I haven't seen her that angry since Tommy Jr. and I broke the very large living room window when we were kids.

"My Gawd, that sounds like a New York cabby that's off duty." Jake laughed hysterically.

"Let me try, Computer Therron three slant three." Amanda said.

The computer went into a four-letter word tirade that every Earth sailor knew and used at one time or another. Iris looked to be about ready to use the tried and true method of making it eat a bar of soap that she had used on me so many times in the past. Amanda blushed and Aimaila smiled weakly. Our friends from Earth and I just shook the heads in disbelief, laughing. That was the last straw that broke the camel's back.

"Arlene, give me that comm unit!" Amanda said angrily and grabbing it from my hand.

"Computer, Mother Ship One, Therron three slant three.

"Identity confirmed, Grand Duchess Amanda, Armada Engineer."

"Computer, link, repair and train all computers in Urh'natau fleet. Mother Ship One is central core. Disregard order for Armada Fleet."

"Done, estimated time of completion one hour Earth standard time."

"Send the message that Queen Arlene wanted sent to all Urh'natau Ships."

"Done"

"Dear Sister in law, you have not changed in all the time you've been gone from us. We have to get you angry for the successful results to come." Aimaila said laughing hysterically.

"Damn, remind me to never get you angry. If that computer had testicles they'd be ripped off." Jake added.

"My, that's a colorful way of saying things Jake." Aimaila said.

"Oh he has better, more descriptive and more colorful words beyond those." Li Wei and Carmen added in unison, giggling.

"I would imagine that this journey will be a learning experience." Aimaila said.

We talked more, I could see the group had bonded and relaxed, the stiffness that they had dissipated. Everyone in the room had taken turns checking on the babies. The pain of childbirth was still evident and so was my lack of energy. I lay back down on the bed, until I fell asleep again.

Chapter Fifty-six:

Once again I awoke several hours later, dreamless. I looked about the room seeing my Father, Husband, Father in Law, Tommy Jr. and Dr. Carson.

"Hi Sweetheart, it's our turn to help out." Father said giving me a kiss.

"Daddy you didn't have to do that. None of you, but I thank you." I said tiredly.

"Carmen said she'll bring lunch for us." Tommy Jr. said.

"Still thinking about food, huh, brother dear?" I said as I giggled.

"Honey, Dr. Carson said you can go back to our Stateroom with the babies, if you want." Gordon said as he kissed me.

"Gee, I don't know, I'm kinda enjoying all the service and attention." I said impishly while I held Gordon's hand in mine.

I received another kiss from him, this time only longer and with more passion.

"Alright you two, next we'll have to leave because of all the heated sex scenes." My Father said jokingly.

"Uh no, sorry Daddy but I think not for a while anyway. Uh……Should we let you and mother know when we resumed our sexual trysts? I said teasingly.

"I think out of all you kids you have got to be the worst with your teasing." Father said.

"Who's teasing?" Gordon and I said together.

"Great, what are you laughing about Tommy? She's your sister!"

"But, Dad!" Tommy Jr. said laughing.

"Arlene, as Gordon said you can go back to your Stateroom with the babies. There are several experienced medics available that volunteered to help out with the babies, actually they are all physicians in training. They all asked to help with the babies and Lynn. I wouldn't recommend them if I didn't think they had promise." Dr. Carson said.

We discussed the matter a bit and I was talked into having the trainees. I was a bit apprehensive but was assured that they all would be perfect for us.

In twenty minutes the babies and I were in the stateroom assigned to us on this flagship. Oh yes, Jake struck again by stating to call this huge ship the flagship. The name stuck! I preferred to be back on Mother One but you all know how that goes. I did however manage to put on comfortable clothing, shorts, top and sneaks. I later found out that the fifty ships of the Armada that had come with us had been brought aboard these Flagships just as the Mother ships take aboard the cargo ships and the scouts.

Carmen and her never-ending buffet of food greeted me.

"The Chefs are all busy they have already begun to train others in the culinary arts. Madre de Dios, those that just woke up can eat!"

"Hey Queenie, youse got somebody at da door."

"Allow. Father as a priority please fix that damn computer."

"I thought Amanda was fixing it?" Daniel said.

"I thought so too." I said.

"I'll see what can be done." Daniel said.

"If you don't fix that arrogant piece of shit, I have a blaster that will." I said angrily.

"Arlene!" Father said in mock surprise.

"Hey, everyone has tried so far in fixing that damn thing, including Mother One. It's driving me crazy!" I said as Aimaila and Iris walked in.

"Its still not right. is it?" Iris said.

"Absolutely not, Mother, it's worse." I said.

"Gentlemen, would you mind if we took Arlene with us?" Aimaila asked.

"Not at all, Aimai. Just don't let Arlene near the computer core access room." Father said.

"Come with us, we need to talk." Iris said.

We left the stateroom and walked briefly to what amounted to a monorail car that could hold possibly sixty people at one time. It was very impressive traveling this way but not one word was said as we traveled.

It was strange that I had not felt or heard the destination we had intended to go to. My thought was that this car was preprogrammed for this excursion. At our destination I was escorted silently until we entered through a set of doors.

As those doors open I saw lush vegetation just as we had in the Arboretum aboard Mother One. There were several differences between this and Mother Ones. This one was absolutely huge!

We followed a path for more than thirty minutes to the edge of the largest body of water I had seen in months. It reminded me of the Pacific Ocean that I missed, oh so much.

"Arlene honey, I know this is a bit confusing but as the new queen I have to acquaint you to the pod. My mother did this for me as Iris and I will do this for you." Aimaila said.

"Sweetheart, Mother Water is with us, she is what we, the Urh'natau call the Creator of all life. The pods are the guardians of that life as well as the advisors to our life's path.

As with all religious philosophy throughout the galaxies the Creator assumes a different personification. Mother Water is our Creator just as those religions on Earth are different but they tend to believe in the Creator also." Iris said.

"There will be times that you will need to be advised, to tape into the knowledge of the ages, our friends have much knowledge to share with us. There are times that our paths seem right but in essence our logic may be flawed as the advice of our human advisors are not infallible due to our emotions." Aimaila said.

"We must now remove all our clothing and enter the water as we all were born. The pods are arriving to greet their new queen." Iris said solemnly.

I removed my clothing as I was told to do. I didn't know what to expect, as both mothers seemed to be in mystical frames of mind.

When I had removed the last of my clothing, I looked out upon the manmade sea containing the sealife of a planet now gone. I grieved for those we lost and for the planet in general.
There were sea creatures coming that were similar in appearance to the sealife of Earth, but many were not. What I saw made me realize that all humans should have respect for all of the life that inhabit any world.

"I call to the ancient one, Nar'loi to come forward to great his new queen." Aimaila said as she took my hand into hers and Iris took my other hand into her hand.

Slowly we entered the water, hand in hand until I no longer felt the sandy bottom with my feet. I felt the sensations of energy recharging my weakened body from the pains of childbirth. I felt several smooth skinned creatures brush against me as I have felt before in the waters of Earth and Mother One. The empathic ability I had felt or sensed the joy that each creature was sending or feeling.

'Nar'loi………here.' The voice said in my mind.

'Ancient one, long time friend, we bid you greetings. Show yourself to your new queen.' Aimaila said.

After several minutes of waiting, the look of displeasement was evident on Aimaila's face. It was time for me to act.
'I Arlene, Queen of the Urh'natau bid you welcome. We ask that you show yourself Nar'loi as the Queen Mother has requested. I hold my arm out to you for the test.'

As soon as I extended my arm, I felt the strong jaws of what I didn't know. I was feared but composed as I held my eyes closed. I had to hide that fear that was welled up in me.

'My brother………on other ship………said………same but different. pods……accept you…………Queen Arlene.'

'Show yourself to me.'

I didn't know what to expect as a pure white creature that was perhaps thirty feet long start to break the surface letting the upper dorsal fin cut through the blue waters we were in.

Closer it came to me stopping at about ten feet. This was the largest albino dolphin I had ever seen; it would certainly outweigh the Killer and Beluga whales I had seen on Earth. Facial features were the same; just the immense size made this creature fearful.

'Nar'loi, why are you fearful of me?'

'New queen……has anger still. New queen……….
has pain.

'Nar'loi, the pods need never fear my family nor I. Aimaila and Iris are my mothers. My daughters and son will always be a part of the pods.

Soon we will be arriving at our and your, new homeworld. All the pods, shellfish and schoolfish will survive and thrive just as you did on Urh'natau.'

As we spoke through our minds Nar'loi came closer to me. He allowed me to touch him on the snout and blowhole area. This denizen of the deep was so very gentile in its nature. I could feel his fear of me start to disperse. I felt his playful, loving nature return to him.

'Our queen has………found home?'

'Yes Nar'loi we now have a home called Mars, with oceans, lakes, and canals. There was no life, but we are now that life that will live and thrive there.'

As I spoke I could hear or feel the excitement in all the creatures that were near us. I felt the hands of Aimaila an Iris touch my upper arms to signal me that all was well.
Managing a quick look at their face I saw their smiles which put a smile onto my face.

'Queen has ……pain. Tyan'ak will fix. Children……are well?'

Yes Nar'loi I am in pain from the birthing. Being with the pods has helped to take some of the pain away. How can Tyan'ak fix me? I'm confused. Yes the babies are well and sleeping. Soon I must go back to them but I will return to you soon with the king and oldest daughter."

'Tyan'ak comes……..she………pods healer……will help queen. We know ………babies well………bring to pods………soon. They ………will learn……from pods and mother……… Princess and King……will come too…….Pods will teach………our ways.

I had that dumb look on my face again. How could I be healed? Sure we'll bring the babies when they are a little older. What in the Universe could be taught to Gordon? At times, he could use a bit more refinement but he's mine and I don't care if he sat around all day in his underwear and smoked nasty, foul cigars. He was mine and I was his, the children are ours.

I felt the presence of another dolphin next to me. Nar'loi allowed this dolphin to come closer to me.

'Queen…….touch Tyan'ak……I help……Tyan'ak birthed many babies……Take pain away.

I saw the smaller dolphin coming closer, very cautiously. It was the normal coloring and size of all the dolphins I had met on Earth and Mother One. I had no fear of these creatures but how could they heal? Perhaps they were the reason that our people survived on the fleet of ships we found.

Tyan'ak touched my upper and lower abdomen, breasts and back with its nose. The pain that I had was gone.

'Queen feel………better? Look fine………now. Happy……mate asked Tyan'ak……help you.

'You are Nar'loi's mate? I thank you and all the pods. I also have much to learn from the pods. Yes, I do feel much better, more like my old self.'

'Queen…….people not……… Urh'natau born………will learn……from pods. Have much……knowledge……history………will share……to all.'

I lovingly touched Tyan'ak to tell her that we will learn from the pods. She was correct in telling me that we had much to learn. Why didn't the pod on Mother One tell me? Maybe Dr. Carson now has a bit of competition?

'Our friends of all the pods, we will learn much from you all. Be patient with us from Earth. We are new to the old ways of the Urh'natau. We are your students and your friends. I will not disappoint the pods nor will me family.

It is time for us to leave you, will be back. Many of those of the Earth will come to share your knowledge teach them well our ways; we have a debt to repay. The Earth was our shared homeworld for decades until recently……….."

'What my daughter has said is true. We do have a debt to repay. Give your knowledge to those that ask for it. Soon we will be at our new homeworld; we will check the waters to ensure they are safe for you all. Soon our new planet will be all our homes; we will no longer be without a homeworld.' Iris's thoughts flowed freely.

I was so proud of both my mothers for being the strong, intelligent women they are. I had learned much from them and the pods. I knew that I could rely on their consul in the many years ahead.

"I see you have met the pods, Arlene. Aimai, why didn't you tell me you were coming here?" Amanda said.

"Dear sister in law, I am sorry for not telling you. I know that you needed the time to mourn as I did. I truly long for the companionship of my mate and your brother." Aimaila said sorrowfully.

"Our only regret was not to have found all of you sooner. My brother might still be alive to be with us. I have been blessed with all of you that have survived due to the caring nature of the pods." Amanda said as she came into the deeper water to join us.

'Lady Amanda……brother was……beyond healing………with Creator…… now. Tried……healing……could not.' Tyan'ak thoughts had much sorrow.

'I know the pod healers tried, I will miss him but his spirit will always be with those that live.'

"Indeed their spirits of all the Urh'natau will be remembered. It is our way to remember them in our own ways.

We are a united people again. Many of those on the Flagships are alive because of our pod healers that returned health to our people.

Arlene, you were very caustic to those that were assisting to bring many of us back. They could not answer your questions as I had told them that they could not. Paarth, our long time friend and advisor was not advised until our action with the Krea'ckh was completed.

As you had theorized, we had managed to secure these ships to transport our people before Urh'natau was destroyed. My sisters here were directed by me to survey the Earth for possible membership into the Alliance.

I had asked my twin to bring you into this life as my heir to the throne due to not being able to carry a baby to term. I had not thought of the possibilities of you and Gordon to lead our people. This was a surprise, which I was overjoyed to find out. I was again overjoyed that I had a grandchild that I would be able to share with everyone.

I was displeased however, that you placed yourself into such a dangerous position with our not yet born gifts, which you carried. I was pleased of your handling of the situation with the Alliance in saving many hundreds of thousands of lives. Remember my darling daughter, as a royal our people and the pods come first and look to you for leadership and guidance. We are not perfect and we will make mistakes, as you have found out.
Amanda, your brother and my husband shall always be remembered by his grandchildren and for many generations afterward. You, Iris, Tommy Sr., Eve and Paul have protected and trained Arlene well. Yes daughter, I was told everything including your trysts and abuses.

There was to be no interference, as the High Council and our advisors made the decisions on the path you had to follow. If I were on Earth I would have ordered the same learning experience." Aimaila said as she hugged me tenderly.

I had tears in my eyes as Amanda and Iris joined Aimaila and me in our hug. It was now time for me to be the leader and mother I was expected to be.

Chapter Fifty-seven:

We had left our friends, the pods and managed to return to my stateroom where all the family and friends had gathered. I had noticed that the pain I had was now gone and I felt like my old self.

I tried not to be ignorant to anyone but I needed to see all my children. The newborns had just been fed and asleep. I was however greeted with squeals of delight by Lynn in the play area. She had grown, was standing and could walk and that was what she did, straight to me.

"Momma!" Lynn said all smiling and giggly.

I smiled too as I picked her up and held her closely to my breast. This is what motherhood is about too; holding your child and telling her you love her and missed her. Wait a minute; Lynn said momma. My little prodigy said momma, this I absolutely loved to hear. This was a special moment for me for my daughter to call me momma. I began to cry as I held my daughter; she was growing up right before my eyes. Lynn is so sweet and loving I just had to guarantee myself that she would retain that sweet innocents.

"That's a wonderful picture to behold, Arlene. " Aimaila said softly.

"Thank you mother, would you like to hold your granddaughter?" I asked

"I would be a fool to say no. This is what I missed with you, dear daughter. I missed giving you life, holding you and loving you. Perhaps you would not have been traumatized if I had been around." Aimaila said as she took Lynn into her arms.

"Mother, I realize now that what was done was done for a purpose. I had to learn and to grow; I had to learn to love and to share my love. I had to learn to be a leader although I didn't know at the time what I was going to lead. The decisions I made had been difficult for me. Those decisions involve those of our people and the people of Earth."

"Darling, to lead is a difficult matter to ascertain. My sister and Amanda trained you; Jerome, Eve and Paul refined that training. Our Council had made difficult decisions as to your protection. They all took great distaste in the deceptions they perpetrated, this was done to ensure that the Urh'natau had a queen."

"I missed so much when I was a child. Sure, all my siblings knew about me but these truths were hidden from me."

"Arlene, there will be times as you rule that there will be a certain distaste or remorse. I have that distaste having to explain my sister and Amanda's my actions. Again, it was to be certain there was to be a queen and heirs to keep our people united and at peace. We, the Urh'natau are the backbone of the Alliance, now Earth too; we share our responsibility to maintain the peace."

"Mother was the truth told of my father's sperm viability?"

"Sweetie, Both my consort and myself had problems that could not have been corrected. I was told that if I became pregnant there would always be the possibility that I would miscarry or die in childbirth. Medical science could only do so much so very long ago. Iris my sister had always said she would be a surrogate mother for me, well, I gave her the chance and you are the result, my daughter.

Due to the medical advancements by Dr. Carson and his teams of doctors in the Armada, you do not have that gene or has been repaired. You have proven yourself to be fertile, the birth of your babies have proved that."

"I thank you for your honesty, now I can only love you all so much more." I said as I kissed Aimaila as any daughter would kiss her mother.

"I knew you were back Arlene, we need to speak. Oh sorry, I didn't know you were speaking to your mother." Li Wei said as she entered the playroom.

"C'mon in, what ever it is must be important." I said.

"The rumor machine is active again on Earth. The dissidents are reporting an invasion fleet will be entering the Solar System soon. There are those that are over reacting to these reports. Sure these ships are beyond my realization in size but we must show that there is nothing to fear.

I don't think my speaking to the planet will eliminate the situation."

"We could orbit the Flagships around the planets." I said.

"No Arlene, we have to put those rumors to rest." Aimaila said.

"Mother, could these ships enter the atmosphere?" I asked

"Yes they could, they are just a larger version of the Armada ships."

"Arlene, please don't do what I think you are thinking."

"Computer, Bridge please."

"Hey toots, youse ain't got da permission ta use or abuse me. I tolds ya dat befores."

"Damnit, I told Amanda and Daniel to fix it. I'll fry that core!" I said angrily.

'Mother One computer, hear your queen. By royal command, override all computer operations of all Flagships. Commence repairs of all Flagship computers.

Lay a course to Earth for this ship; slow all other flagships until our arrival on earth, this ship is to be at Flank Speed. Allow Flagship to enter atmosphere, lay a course to maintain a distance of five nautical miles East from New York City, Manhattan Island. Altitudes of safe and prudent at hover above the Atlantic Ocean, do not impede Earth's air traffic.

Notify the flight crew and security of the Royal Barge to launch when in position. The Barge is to be prepared onboard this Flagship in the landing bay nearest to this Stateroom.'

"Arlene, please calm down. I think every ship and being heard your thoughts."

'Mother One computer, have you complied?'

'Done.'

"Computer, this is a test."

"All is complete as you commanded."

"Finally, that arrogant bitch will be gone for good." I said smiling.

"Computer, have all royal family members and Earth staff come to the nursery playroom immediately, please. Notify Earth defense of our intentions and request escort for the Barge." I said.

"Done."

"Arlene, what are you doing?" Iris said running into the playroom.

"Going to Earth. Why mother?" I said normally.

"Once before you did this and scared the hell out of the inhabitants. And that was only with the Scout Ships. If you take this behemoth there, there will be panic."

"Mother, this is a necessity. We have to put these rumors to rest, once and for all. We are a part of the Alliance and Gordon and I are leaders in the Alliance. This will be a diplomatic visit by us to quell the rumors and fears of those on Earth."

"Iris, I agree with our daughter. There must be an element of fear to promote trust. The Flagship is that element of fear. Arlene, Gordon and the Alliance are the trust." Aimaila said.

"Sorry I just heard Aimai's response but it is logical. Our daughter is doing the logical thing. In addition, the people of Earth have put their trust into the Armada. It must be shown that the Earth can still trust us. Arlene and Gordon demonstrate that trust.' My father said.

"I agree with Tommy. The Alliance saved our proverbial and collective asses. I think that the Mothers, fathers and the children of the King and Queen should go down." Jake said.

"Me too, I agree." Alexei said with Karla firmly attached to him.

I saw the look that my sister had on her face. It matched Alexei's look. They both had the look that said they loved each other. Why not, they've been together and sharing the same bed for weeks now.

"Alexei, you always agree with Jake." Li Wei said.

"Sure, he's my boss."

"At least you're honest. Speaking of honesty Alexei, when are you going to make Karla an honest woman?" I asked.

"Uh…… Sis, Alexei already asked and gave me a ring. I said yes!"

'Computer, is Paarth onboard this ship?" I asked acting angrily.

"Yes."

"Contact him, please."

"Done."

"Arlene, this is a pleasant surprise. How may I assist you." Paarth said.

"By officiating at a marriage between Alexei and my sister Karla." I said.

"I am honored High Premiere that you have thought of me."

"Paarth, would you be willing to do the service on Earth? In New York City?"

"As you wish Arlene."

"Would you have Li Wei assist you?"

"By all means. Will it be at the UN of Earth?"

"With Li Wei's permission. She is nodding her head yes. I assume the matter is settled. Thank you Paarth for making an honest woman of my sister." I said smiling.

"My pleasure, Arlene."

"Karla by Royal Command you will wear Alexei's ring at all times. Congratulations to you both."

"Uh……Arlene………Sis, I haven't told anyone, so I might as well tell you all now. I'm………uh, Oh shit! I'm pregnant!"

The room went crazy or should I say Alexei went insane. He picked up Karla and kissed her madly, until she could make him stop.

"Now you did it Alexei. One question, did Sheila put a bag over your head when you both made love? Where did she find the bag? Oh well, I just hope your children all look as pretty as Karla looks." Jake asked kidding his old friend.

"Admiral! I can't believe you said that to your second in command." Li Wei said laughing.

"We're sorry Aimai to put you through this. These people are and always will be our friends. They all might have a playful nature but they are professional in what they do." Iris said.

"When we are not in court and are with friends and family you will address me as you have always done, Aimai. Have I been gone too long or have you all forgotten? Karla and Alexei to you I am your Aunt Aimai, is that understood? My blessings to you both."

"Damn, I guess you do put on your knickers the same as any other woman does. I have a father I want you to meet back on Earth. The both of you will be a real hoot." Jake said.

"Jake!" we all chorused.

"Ummmmm……. Sorry Your Majesty."

"For what Jake? However, you will have to explain to me in private what you said. As to your father it would be a pleasure to meet him." Aimaila said laughing, taking the tension from the room.

The tension was gone as we left the Nursery. I checked on the newborns one last time and conferred with their medics. I was assured that they were being well taken care of. At this stage of their new lives, they all tended to sleep a great deal.

"Arlene, I'm afraid that there might be a slight problem in Alexei and Karla's marriage plans." Li Wei said.

"Is it because of Alexei?"

"No the State of New York requires a three day wait after the issuance of the marriage license and they require a blood test."

"The blood test is not a problem. That can be done on the ship. The license is the problem." I said.

"Let me see what can be done. If necessary we can claim diplomatic immunity to that law since there has been no crime committed."

"No Li Wei, we will abide by their laws we must set an example, see what you can do first, thank you." I said as I hugged my friend.

"Queen Arlene and King Gordon, Sweeties, your presence is requested in stateroom B-135-2. Medical Emergency, Dr. Carson."

"What was that all about? That damn computer! Now it's taken over the sultry voice of Mamie Van Doren." I said in disgust.

"That's Jerome's stateroom!"

"Li Wei, keep everyone here until I find out what this is about. I said as I ran from our stateroom after telling everyone there was a problem and Gordon and I had to leave."

Chapter Fifty-eight:

Gordon told them all to remain in our stateroom and to eat. We would be back soon as we left hand in hand running. My hope while running was that Gordon knew where we where running. I had no inkling! Within moments, we came to a door that was closed.

"Computer open door, please." Gordon said.

"Sure thing, honey."

I looked around as we both entered. The stateroom was a disaster area with bottles, clothing and glasses strewn everywhere. I was afraid to touch anything as I might catch something.

"Dr. Carson?" I said loudly.

"In the bedroom with Jerome."

The bedroom was as bad as the lounge area when we walked in. This untidiness was not like Jerome.

Jerome was lying on the bed softly sobbing.

"What the hell happened in here? Jerome why are you crying?" I asked as I sat next to him on the bed and held his hand.

"Arlene, I was summoned by the computer here as a medical emergency. The computer monitors all crew life-signs if one of us is sick or injured. It was reported to us that we had an unconscious female in Jerome's Head.

When we entered, the stateroom looked like a bomb hit it as we walked through it. We found Jerome praying to the porcelain god and not a female crewmember.

The computer showed massive amounts of an aphrodisiac that was outlawed over a century ago by the Alliance. It wasn't only an aphrodisiac but very addicting to the Urh'natau.

We managed to stop the cravings by following the procedures outlined to us in the medical library.

I had the computer do another scan of Jerome after we got him into bed. The computer listed his sex as female and very pregnant, by several days.

That meant that he was inseminated by at least one to two hours after transitioning. Once we change our anatomy we are ready to procreate."

Jer, honey where did you get the stuff you drank?" I asked, as a concerned friend.

Jerome seemed to calm down after I began to hold one hand and Gordon the other.

Through the sobs Jerome spoke saying," Jake and I were exploring this ship. Jake just broke up with his girlfriend and was depressed. The immense size of this ship got both of us excited with the possibilities that it could have to the Alliance and less wear and tear on our Mother ships. He immediately came out of the depression.

We had entered one of the repair bays and found several storerooms that were sealed. I broke one of those seals and we both entered. There were cases upon cases stored there. I tried to read the language stenciled on the boxes but they were too badly faded. Inside those cases, were bottles that contained a liquid that was the color of golden smoke.

I handed a bottle of the liquid to Jake who opened it immediately and sniffed it. Jake said it smelled like a scotch whiskey he had once in Edinburgh, Scotland.

We took several of the cases back to my stateroom and had the computer on Mother One analyze the liquid. We were told that it was similar to Earth Scotch and was safe to imbibe and that it was over two hundred years old and one hundred and forty five proof. Well we did drink it. I never realized how much Jake could drink without getting drunk. Me, I had one glass and I was inebriated. That stuff was strong!

We both sat and drank the hooch as Jake called it. He was getting maudlin over his love life. I was concerned that he might do something stupid, as we had become very close friends. I needed to break the mood he was in and at the same time, I realized that I truly loved this man from Earth in a brotherly way.

We shared so much with each other and told our life's secret and ambitions. We told each other of our childhood and saw that they were similar. We spoke of our dating rituals and even our sexual liaisons with others. Jake has the type of personality that you did not drop the soap in the shower if he was around. I decided to help him in a sexual way if I had too.

I asked him to envision and describe the type of woman he wanted to settle down with for the rest of his life. He described a woman that had long dark brown hair, hazel eyes, smooth tanned olive skin, five foot eight inches tall, one hundred and twenty pounds on a very feminine frame and an equally proportioned body with small dainty feet. She needed to have wide hips to bear all of their children and medium breasts to nurse them. He added she had to have a voice as smooth, light and airy as satin.

I don't know what happen to my train of common sense. I went into the bedroom and changed into his dream woman. I had the clothing computer make a diaphanous black peignoir set, panties, bra and black high-heeled slippers. I had the computer make the necessary jewelry of necklace, bracelets earrings and ankle bracelet with the name J-E-R-I engraved on every piece in silver and onyx. I had the computer help me with the makeup and hair.

I was amazed at the sensuous sensations as I was getting dressed. The sensations came not only from the soft clothing but from my transitioned body also. I was a women in need to be fulfilled sexually simply put; all I could think about was to help my friend and felt that this was the way to help him. I should have known better but…………"

Jerome once again began to cry heavily just as any person would. He decided to help a friend, which was done, but either the chemicals that were digested or his own psyche caused them to go way overboard to excess.

"Arlene, that J'tellium joy juice is as I said is addictive to some and to others a sexual stimulant. What confuses me is that Jeri knew everything that she was doing but Jake doesn't remember anything or he might be repressing the events that occurred." Dr. Carson said.

"Jeri honey, and I use the female spelling of your name. Sweetie, we know you were helping Jake but now we are here for you and the life you now carry within you.

I know that you joined the Armada to serve the Urh'natau and lost your family on our homeworld, yes, mother Aimaila told me. You still have a very important job to do for us and that is to make sure that everything flies.

You're going to be a mother now whether you like it or not. I would suggest you change your shape to what it was and embrace the child that is growing inside of you with the love of a mother. We all have the utmost respect for you and will always have that respect.

I want you to promise Gordon and me that you will not do anything irrational. Will you make that pledge to us?"

"I have to think about everything. I'm so confused right now."

"We know, please believe me we do know." Gordon said.

"We'll go out into the lounge while you think of what you want to do. I'll have the computer go to a privacy mode for you so you aren't disturbed." I said giving Jeri a kiss on her forehead and squeezing her hand to reassure her of our support. The feelings I felt were that Jeri would become very strong and not try to harm herself.

I motioned for the three of us to go out into the lounge. Jeri went back to crying. The decisions that she had to make were enormous and I needed her expertise for our ships. As we walked from the bedroom, I saw Jeri slowly altering her appearance. Her hair became long and dark brown. Her eyes became hazel. She now had smooth tanned olive skin. She was perhaps five foot eight inches tall, one hundred and twenty pounds on a and an equally proportioned frame with small dainty feet. She had wide hips and medium breasts. She had become the new Jeri but of course, she was always our Jeri.

I found a chair that was somewhat devoid of the empty bottles in the lounge room and sat. What a mess! I saw the clothes Jeri described to us were thrown about on a couch that Dr. Carson and Gordon placed onto an unused chair, while her shoes remained underneath a glass table in front of the couch.

"There are visitors, honey, at the door." The computer said in her very sexy voice.

"Allow."

The door opened to allow the three ladies that I called mother, Jake, Alexei and Li Wei to enter. They all had concerned looks about their faces.

When they all saw the messiness of the room, my mothers, Li Wei and I went into cleaning mode.

All the bottles went to the recycler and the glasses and dishes into the washer. Aimaila had the air fragranced with the smell of roses to dispel the musky smell of sex that permeated the stateroom. As all of us worked, we spoke.

I pulled my mothers' aside and told them what had happened and the consequences of the act. Not one of them showed any displeasure or distaste of Jeri's actions with Jake. They understood what was done was done in the name of humanitarian love and not for the sexual romp it seemed.

While I spoke to Aimaila, Iris, Li Wei and Amanda; Dr. Carson, Gordon and Alexei were speaking to Jake. I heard denial at first from Jake but then he admitted to have had sexual relations with a very pretty woman.

"How could this of happened?" Li Wei said.

Then I went into detail how it did happened.

"Is Jeri alright? I mean stabile with her situation?" Li Wei asked.

"I don't know yet. Mother Iris you've known Jerome the longest. Has Jerome ever done anything like this before?" I asked.

"Never! I never knew the Jerome we love, know and sometimes hate, to have a softer side that has been exhibited. Jake must be something special to her to have done what she did. She gave herself unquestioningly to her comrade, that my dear is true love."

"There is a visitor at the door, Sweetie."

"Allow. Damnit Amanda, why isn't that computer fixed yet? At least it recognizes us."

"I think it's kind of sexy myself." My father said as he came into the room we were gathered in."

"You would Tommy, what are you doing here and not on the Bridge? I thought we had it fixed, I'll tell Daniel. It will be fixed!" Amanda said.

"I wasn't needed so I decided to see why all of you are here."

We then proceeded to tell my father everything we knew. He was amazed to the feelings that Jeri had exercised as we all were. This was a side Jeri's personality none of us had ever seen. She willingly gave herself to her friend no matter what the consequences would be.

I felt the familiar tapping of Gordon to me, 'Could you all come into the lounge please.'

As we walked into the lounge, we saw that Jake looked like a broken down spirit of a man.

"We're here Darling." I said as I took his hand into mine.

"I was just told what I did. OhMyGod! I can't believe it! My best friend! I laid my best friend! Are you sure that Jeri is pregnant?" Jake said.

"Oh yes Jake, I ran the medical test three times to make sure. Also I need to recheck a few other things but by the evidence, her genetic makeup is changing to complete female. We have the ability to be either sex when we change but in Jeri's case she will only be able to alter herself to a female." Dr. Carson said.

"Well dad, you got your wish, you're going to be a granddaddy." Jake said with upraised eyes speaking to no one in particular.

"And you a father, Jake." Li Wei said sarcastically.

"I need to speak to Jeri. I have to tell her my feelings of remorse for what I did. OhMyGawd, how in the world can I be forgiven for what I've done. I took sexual advantage of a person under the influence of an aphrodisiac. I've taken his manhood from him! I'm no better than a rapist!" Jake said as he held his head in his hands.

Jake stayed in that position for several before fleeing the stateroom. After several minutes Jake returned and sat down once again sorrowfully.

"Jake cut that self deprecating crap and get off your ass and go tell Jeri how you feel. This time we are not the ones to forgive, only Jeri can do that.

Jeri has displayed something none of us ever saw in her; that is her love for you. Now she is carrying your child and needs you even more. Are you her friend?" I said.

"I always have been her friend. I had no idea I was so close to her." Jake said sadly.

"Well Admiral I also suggest you get off your ass and go speak to her." Li Wei said grabbing him by the arm and dragging Jake to the bedroom door.

"But what if……………"

"No buts Jake, now it's an order by your boss. Get in there now!"

I couldn't believe that Li Wei ever the diplomat would speak to anyone like she did to Jake. I had to inwardly smile as Jake passively entered the darkened bedroom. If she would have had a shotgun, they, meaning Jake and Jeri would be married to make things right.

"Hey toots more visitors."

Amanda, my dear sweet mother in law, please fix that computer. Allow the guests." I said with a sweet smile on my face.

Just when Amanda was ready to respond Eve and Paul entered out of breath.

"Is Jerome alright?" Eve as asked breathlessly.

We all proceeded to tell them of the events that unfolded. All Paul could do was shake his head in disbelief.

"I'm going to find it hard to describe our friend using a feminine pronoun. As far as anything changing, I doubt it." Paul said.

I felt the tapping at my wall again this time it was Eve, 'Is she alright with her pregnancy?'

'I think so but she was confused in the actions and the by-product of their actions.'

'I'll have Al destroy that J'tellium after we leave. Maybe I can have a few cases sent to our stateroom first. You know for later." I saw a devious smile spread across her face.

'Eve, if Paul becomes pregnant, I don't even want to know about it. Things are getting a little too kinky around here and hitting too close to home.'

"Okay girls, what conspiracy are the both of you cooking up." Gordon said.

"Us! Why nothing." I said

"Arlene, I saw the devilish looks on your and Eve's faces."

"We'll speak later my darling, wonderful husband." I said with a wink and a smile.

"Oh shit, there's going to be more kids to fill the castle."

"Li Wei!" I said not believing what I heard her say.

"Well………It's……….Um……….Sorry, but Jake isn't here and it sounded like something he would say."

I couldn't help but laugh at my friend's embarrassment and the embarrassment on Gordon's reddening cheeks.

Jake slowly came out of the bedroom saying, :Ah…….Arlene, Jeri would like to see you a moment."

I looked around the room for support. As I moved I saw all the women in the room move with me. I gave Jake a wink as I went through the door followed.

I saw a gorgeous woman, with tanned olive skin and fine boned features that lay upon the bed. She smiled shyly at me and held her smile as we all entered.

"Thank you Arlene and I thank you all for the support that you've shown me." Jeri said with a tear and a smile.

"My, you do look lovely, dear." Aimaila said as she gave Jeri a kiss.

"My Queen I have failed our people, the Urh'natau." Jeri said looking directly into my mother's eyes.

I decided not to say anything besides mother Iris hit me in the ribs to signal me to keep quiet.

"Nonsense dear, if anything all our people are blessing you. Arlene has given our people the sign of prosperity and peace, while you will give us more children and joy. These are what all our women seek, to perpetuate the Urh'natau people. Be proud of who and what you are dear. Do not be feared to show love to your people, children and your mate."

"I will and I will fulfill my duties to the Alliance, Earth, Armada and Flagship Fleets."

"Jeri we know you will. You need to rest, so we will all leave now. Rest well dear." Aimaila said and kissed Jeri, as any mother would show affection to her child.

"Arlene please, I need to speak to you a moment. Could you also ask Jake to come in here too." Jeri said.

I was somewhat confused as to what Jeri wanted or needed. I couldn't in good conscience deny a request from a person that was a friend and former teacher. Everyone had left with me telling them I would check my children, eat and then rest as I should be doing now.

Finally Jake walked into the bedroom and went to Jeri's aide taking her hand into his. What I saw in them was a very deep friendship that had blossomed into a very deep and resounding love for each other. Their relationship was always strong but now it was to be tested in ways they would have a difficult time in understanding. Jake was a man, Jeri was a woman now, and there would be vast differences into their relationship.

"Jake was the one that asked for me to keep you here. I don't know why."

I looked toward Jake seeing him in a different light as I once had. I saw the fear in his eyes of me and I saw the compassion in his eyes for Jeri. My empathic ability confirmed what I saw. As for Jeri, well let just say her hormones are changing.

"Okay Jake, why and what?" I said.

"Arlene, I have always been a man of action. I was always taught never to shirk my responsibilities. I have both of my bosses pissed at me, which is very unsettling.

Do you know that I almost washed out of Naval Aviation School? Well I almost did. Most of my instructors were in a gambling pool to see if I wouldn't make the grade. I broke my ass and proved them all wrong. I proved I had the stuff to even become an astronaut and now a leader of beings in the Alliance.

I pledge to you and Jeri as my mate for life I will always be there for the Alliance, you and for Jeri. Pappy will just be ecstatic with this news. A father in law and a grandpappy."

I decided to let Jake sweat a bit but he shocked me again to reality.

"Arlene, since the first time we met I could see a woman with pride, concern, dignity, and courage I saw an intelligent loving wife and mother. These are the attributes I modeled my future wife to have; now I have that woman beside me."

Jake went down to his knees while holding Jeri's delicate hand in his bear like paw as she cried.

"Jeri, before the Creator and your Queen; will you be my wife for all our lives and the mother of our children? I promise to you I will always be there for you and our children. I will share with you all the secrets of my essence with you, as I know you will do the same."

I saw the tears streak onto both of their cheeks as he slipped a massive engagement ring onto to Jeri's left ring finger. She kissed him lovingly to answer his question.

"This was my mother's and my grandmother's engagement ring. I promised before her death that I would give it to my betrothed. I promised my mother it would only be given to the one that I was to marry and to love her deeply. That person is you. " Jake said kissing Jeri tenderly.

Now I had joined the group in crying. Perhaps I was too harsh on Jake? I was tempted to see what actual thoughts they had, however there was no deception in their feelings for each other.

I went to them and placed a hand on each of their heads say," Our blessings to you both, have harmony in your lives.

Jake, you did the right thing for Jeri. Jeri, I have never seen the love that was generated by another to make the type of sacrifice you made for anothers' happiness. I pray you will be much happier now with Jake.

We all have made mistakes in our lives, I surely have. Nevertheless, Gordon and the children more than compensate for those errors in judgment."

I said my good-byes to those two friends that made a mistake. I had a feeling that all would work out for them. I made my way to their lounge and saw the tears in the eyes of those that were also friends of Jake and Jeri.

"I thought you all left?" I said.

"Well……" Mother Iris asked with her eyebrow up. I almost giggled out loud as she did an imitation of a popular character of the television and movies all she needed were the pointed ears. I refrained from the giggle only because it would irritate her.

"Mother, I think that's between the both of them to tell you." I said coyly.

I knew this was a tactic she hated. My sisters would always pull it on her constantly while growing up. It was always a part of a woman's makeup to know everything about her surroundings, her family and friends. If she didn't know it would drive her crazy.

"Arlene! I see you've learned well from your sisters. Okay little girl, now spill it!"

She was angry now; Amanda and Aimaila loved the little show I was putting on.

"Dear sister, you still haven't changed during all these years. No patience with the young."

"Aimai, My kids drove me crazy with the stunts they pulled. If you've had them when they were young………Well let's just say it would have given me pleasure to see the royal paddle used again."

"Okay just for general information Jake asked Jeri to be his wife." I said

"We know, we watched it all." Gordon said taking my hand and kissing me.

"Okay Arlene, I want you to eat and get some rest, doctor's orders." Dr. Carson said.

I have to admit that I do have a knack to handle tense situations. I prayed that those situations would slacken off.
I needed to rest, I wanted to be with family and friends, and I wanted to be with my husband.

To Be Continued: