Date: 2011-10-31T18:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Science Fiction
Description: A young girl dreams of seeing the stars and meeting aliens. Her chance comes in the form of a project offering a college education, commissioning in the SAS Fleet, and a partnership with an alien. She successfully qualifies and wins one of the coveted ten positions. Of course everything comes with a price—the alien is a parasite that inhabits the body and mind, and is there for life. Is it a dream or nightmare come true—or maybe both?
Publisher: Simon and Schuster

THE RISS GAMBLE

by

C. R. Daems

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS
www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS

Whiskey Creek Press

PO Box 51052

Casper, WY 82605-1052
www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright Ó 2011 by C. R. Daems

Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 (five) years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000.

Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher.

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

ISBN 978-1-61160-054-4

Credits

Cover Artist: Gemini Judson

Editor: Dave Field

Printed in the United States of America

Dedication

To my wife Verina for her patience and understanding.

Chapter 1

“This could be the worst day of my life,” I shouted, glaring at the black-wrapped package with the yellow-sunburst emblem of the Sadr Alliance of Stars (SAS). I’d waited six agonizing months for a response to my application for admission to the Riss Project. Acceptance meant a college education, commission in the SAS Navy, and partnership with an alien. Now that it had arrived, I’d rather dismantle an explosive device than open that package.

“Do you know the odds that I was accepted? Do you even care?” I pointed an accusing finger. “There are about a hundred billion people in the SAS. If only one out of ten thousand is eligible, and of those, only one out of every hundred is interested, one hundred thousand individuals submitted applications. The proposal stated there are ten positions; therefore, my chances are one in ten thousand.”

I tore my gaze away from the package. I’d dared to dream; now the dream lay on the table crushed beneath that black-wrapped packet. I’d hoped to see the stars. That had been a fantasy. I would never leave Corona. I was born here and would die here. Not that my life was bad. I had a good job, which was challenging and paid well.

I scanned my apartment with some satisfaction. The room had a comfortable living area, small but adequate kitchen, modern Kleanzer, and separate bedroom. I had a unique voice-activated computer system I designed and built, which controlled the apartment’s security, lights, accessories, and appliances. The kitchen was large enough for a small table, currently occupied by the package I was trying to ignore. Mentally exhausted, I set the Kleanzer  to hot and stood there until I turned pink, then dragged myself to bed.

* * * *

Reconciled to staying on Corona, I dressed, used the Fugenie to make a breakfast of potato pancakes, and sat at the kitchen table, watching the daily news. I had thrown the package on the couch—out of sight out of mind. Nothing interesting had happened while I slept, which wasn’t unusual on Corona. After a second cup of Corona kaffa, I dressed and left for work. The repair shop I worked at was a convenient five-minute walk past apartment complexes, large equipment manufacturing and assembling plants, and repair facilities. The landscape, roads, warehouses, shuttles, and landing tarmac were a ubiquitous gray. Even the town looked gray and dingy in the early morning overcast sky. They matched my mood.

* * * *

“Good morning, Nadya. Karl tells me he delivered a package to you from the SAS yesterday. Bad news?” Phil asked. The usual smile on his pudgy round face was missing. He was a big man, in height and girth, and owned the repair facility where I worked. On my uncle’s recommendation, he’d hired me after I’d finished compulsory school. I’d been fourteen years old.

“I haven’t opened it yet.” I wanted to ignore the subject, but Phil wouldn’t let me. He’d encourage me to “get it on the table and deal with it.” It was currently on the table, and dealing with it was the problem.

“Why? I know you did well on your tests. I talked to the mayor, who reviewed your test results. He said your scores were outstanding. And I said nice things about you, even though I don’t want to lose you.”

“Thanks, Phil. I’m happy here and love my work. I’d just like to see the stars.”

The SAS required the tests be strictly monitored over the five days it took to complete. To my delight, they were predominately problem-solving and mathematical exercises. In addition, there were required evaluations by the person you worked for, planet security, and your parents or guardian, which in my case was my uncle. I couldn’t help but wonder if other candidates had been permitted to take the test unsupervised or had been helped.

“You know you’ve a future here. I know most of the workers regularly go to you for advice on how to fix something or other. Someday, you’ll be the supervisor here. You would be today, except for your age.” Phil chewed on his lower lip. “I want you to go home tonight and open that package. You can’t move on until you know—for sure—what it says.”

“Thanks, Phil.” He was right. The package wasn’t something I could take apart and fix. I excelled at that. Unfortunately, it didn’t need repair. When my parents died in a shuttle accident, my aunt took me in. With four children of her own, she didn’t have spare time for me. I became a loner and turned to taking things apart. If I wasn’t caught while it was still apart, I usually managed to put it back together. My uncle saved me. A design engineer, he took pity on me. He didn’t help my social skills, but he encouraged my natural inquisitiveness. Even at work, I was a loner, content to spend hours learning how things worked and how to repair them.

* * * *

I still procrastinated. After work I went into town and ate dinner at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, I walked around the shops looking for an excuse to stay out. In the end, I gave up and returned to my apartment.

I placed my hand on the door pad and the door slid open.

“Rika.”

“Yes, Nadya,” my computer responded cheerfully.

“I’m depressed, so don’t sound so damn happy.”

“Yes, Nadya.” However, her voice didn’t change. I vowed to program another less cheerful voice.

“Security on, front room lights on medium, list messages.” I closed the door and glared at the black-wrapped package, which ignored me.

“Messages from Carola, Fredand, and Lenda,” Rika said in that damn cheerful voice.

“Ignore.”

I picked up the package from the table. Refusing to look at it, I gazed up at my only two pictures—a spiral galaxy and a globular cluster set against the star-studded blackness of space. It epitomized my life’s dream, since I was six-years-old. Accepting that my youthful dreams would never come true, I ripped open the package.

With my vision blurred by tears, I stared at the letter on the top of the pile of contents. Throwing it on the table, I rubbed my eyes with my shirtsleeve, walked over to the fridge, and grabbed a bottle of Eden dark-beer. I deserved a drink; it had been a bad day. I seldom got drunk, but I needed to dull the lump in my chest. Wandering back to the table, I took a swig of beer and glanced at the letter, now splattered with tears. It didn’t say “No Acceptance.” A teardrop had obscured the “tice of.” It read “Notice of Acceptance.” I jumped up, knocking the chair over, and whirled around the room. When I got control of myself, I picked up the letter and read it. Three hundred applicants had been selected for further consideration. My odds had improved from one in ten thousand to one in thirty.

I’d be competing against candidates from the hundreds of colonies belonging to the SAS. My stomach knotted at the thought. They would be well educated, extremely intelligent, and have diverse experience. Conversely, I had a compulsory level of education; my knowledge limited to troubleshooting and repairing equipment; and my worldly experience a small mining colony. But I’d been accepted. I’d ride on a spaceship, have an opportunity to see the capital of the SAS, Eden, and a chance to compete for one of the coveted ten slots. Despite my fears, I vowed to be one of the ten.

* * * *

Two weeks later, I stood outside the Xundex city control tower with my meager possessions in two cloth bags. I watched as a silver navy shuttle settled onto the tarmac. The door opened and four men in white uniforms exited. The officers were somehow the same, yet different. Their height, build and faces varied, but their mannerisms and the way they carried themselves made them look like clones. Three of the men entered the building; however, one stopped and scanned me like some new kind of bug. I guess I didn’t look impressive, since he shook his head.

“Are you Nadya Reese?” His voice was gruff and loud, as if talking loud would help me understand him.

“Yes, Sir.”

“You don’t look old enough... Never mind. You can wait in the shuttle. Sit in the back.” He turned and followed the others into the building. I staggered to the shuttle, carrying one bag and dragging the other. My instructions limited my luggage to forty-five kilos, which weighed five kilos more than me. Halfway to the shuttle a short petty officer with a big smile walked out to meet me.

“Here, let me help you, Miss. The Lieutenant doesn’t believe officers should have to do manual labor. My name’s Greg.” He hoisted the bags off the ground with ease and began walking towards the shuttle. I could have kissed him, except I was too exhausted.

“Thanks, Greg. I’m Nadya,” I said between gasps. He stored my luggage in a back compartment and waved me into the shuttle.

“I’m afraid it’ll be a while before we leave. We’re dropping off medical equipment, and the medical officers are here to explain its operation. The other officers will be evaluating the colony’s requests for assistance. We’ll also be loading VIPs like you needing transportation to any planets on our schedule.”

I almost tripped. In an instant, I’d gone from a young girl of little consequence to a “Very Important Person”.

“Take a seat in the back and get comfortable. I’ll bring you a cup of kaffa or taffa.” Kaffa was made from beans grown on several planets; taffa was kaffa with Twill leaves, which produced a euphoric effect.

“Kaffa, please.”

Greg was short and stocky in a muscular way. I guessed his normal duties involved handling cargo. Not a trivial job if he also managed the load distribution. I liked him. A few minutes later, he returned with a cup of kaffa. He sat with me, sharing information about the navy. The time went quickly, and before I realized it, the officers were boarding along with a well-dressed civilian, who I didn’t recognize. He was obviously a VIP, but then so was I. I ignored the fact that he was sitting up front, while I was in the back.

When I found I was going to Eden, I’d expected to be picked up by a merchant ship and required to work for my passage. Instead, I was going to be transported on an SAS War-class ship, the Goshawk. I knew the navy was well liked; however, I hadn’t realized the magnitude of services they provided. Greg had explained how the navy had originally been organized to defend the alliance against aggressors and raiders. Today, the fleet spent the majority of its time supporting the many far-flung colonies of the SAS. They delivered and installed planetary defense and medical equipment, conducted training, consulted on repairs to machinery and ships, delivered supplies, and provided transportation for VIPs. In this case, the ships were stopping at specific planets to pick up and transport Riss Project candidates.

I stopped to look around the shuttle, which I hadn’t done while Greg entertained me. The shuttle looked designed to carry twelve persons in comfort. The seats were large, well-cushioned, and covered in a soft leather-like synthetic material. I kept pinching myself, hoping this wasn’t just a wonderful dream.

The shuttle vibrated slightly as it lifted off the tarmac. As it rose, the mines, the warehouses, and Xundex city grew smaller, until the people began to look like ants and the massive yellow earthmovers like toys. As I watched, the Goshawk came into view. From the ground, the spaceship was little more than a star-like speck in the sky. Up close, it looked like a small city. In my excitement, I’d forgotten to breathe. I closed my eyes and sucked in a deep breath.

As we approached the ship, the shuttle slowed and seemed to be pulled into a huge open cavern, containing a variety of other shuttles. When the red light over the door turned green, the officers and VIP rose and exited. Unsure what to do, I followed. When I reached the bottom of the ramp, a young woman approached.

“Miss Reese?” She was a head taller and dressed in blues. “I’m Petty Officer Nelsen.”

“I think so... Sorry. I’m having this wonderful dream and not sure who I’m supposed to be,” I said, while gaping around the bay. It was enormous. At present, I could only see three shuttles, but it looked like the bay could easily accommodate ten. People were scurrying everywhere.

The young woman laughed. “Don’t feel bad. I had the same feeling when I first boarded the Goshawk. It’s a small city. There are over a thousand navy and army personnel aboard. If you’ll follow me, I’ll give you a quick tour of the passenger’s wing where you’ll be staying and show you to your sleeping quarters.”

I followed her as she navigated the hallways and elevators. She pointed out the navy’s mess, which had a separate area in the officer’s section for civilian passengers. The tables were covered with white tablecloths and chairs padded in a light blue material. The petty officer told me, if I wanted, I could get something to eat at any time using the Fugenie. Further along there was a computer and exercise room. By the time we reached my assigned room, I was exhausted.

“Are you all right? You look pale.”

“I don’t know what’s wrong. I feel like I’m going to pass out.” My head whirled and every muscle in my body ached.

“Let me help you. I’ll take you to the dispensary and have a doctor examine you.” She put my arm around her neck and half-carried me down a maze of hallways. It seemed like hours before she stopped and opened a door to a room smelling of antiseptics. She sat holding me, until a tall man in a white jacket and with a stethoscope draped around his neck approached.

“What’s wrong...Nelsen?” he said after looking at her nametag.

“Miss Reese just joined us from Corona. She’s one of the Riss candidates.”

He laughed. I didn’t think it was funny.

“All SAS ships maintain one Eden standard gravity. What did you weigh on Corona, Reese?”

“Forty kilograms.”

“On this ship and on Eden, you weigh…” He paused. “Approximately fifty-two. You just gained twelve kilograms. I prescribe lots of exercise. I’ll send you a list with the recommended number of times each day. For now take everything slowly.”

* * * *

The six-person room soon filled as we stopped to pick up Riss candidates. I turned out to be the youngest of the group and was overwhelmed, surrounded by so many gregarious people. After surviving the initial shock, I found the candidates friendly and the atmosphere convivial, in spite of us being competitors for the coveted ten positions. I enjoyed the opportunity to learn first hand about the customs, geography, and real-life stories of the people on a variety of SAS planets. From two boys who had brothers in the service, I learned that people enlisted in the navy and army for a variety of reasons: a thirty-year career with a life-long retirement, a four-year enlistment to obtain skills training towards a civilian profession, for a military career at one of the planet’s garrisons, and to get away and visit the colonies.

It turned out that I was the only one who needed to exercise every day, although others did work out.

After our last stop before Eden, the Executive Officer—XO—gave us a guided tour of the Goshawk. The War-class ship eclipsed my wildest imagination. It massed seven hundred million kilos, maintained a navy crew of nine hundred, and an army brigade of one hundred fifty Airborne Commandos—Red Berets—referred to as Wasps.

I felt like dancing through the corridors and singing at the top of my lungs, but restrained myself, since that probably would have gotten me disqualified before I reached Eden. No matter how hard I tried, however, I couldn’t keep a perpetual grin off my face.

Every night I dreamed of being an officer on the Goshawk, and I dreaded its arrival at Eden. There I’d be subjected to more testing and worrying. During the flight, I found my competition represented the crème de la crème of the colonies and wondered how I’d been selected.

We arrived at Eden’s space-docking terminal Hercules, late at night, and quickly loaded into shuttles. Our flight took us over Eden city, a major metropolis with a population of over twenty million. I stared, giddy with excitement. The buildings soared to dizzying heights, and the city twinkled like my picture of a spiral galaxy. I hoped someday I’d have a chance to explore the city. For now, we were sequestered in shuttles and headed away from the lights. Nevertheless, it made for an exciting adventure.

We landed on a small pad next to a three-story building made of a white-looking marble, which shimmered under the light of a full moon. The entrance was a semicircle with two wings, flaring out on each side like a bird in flight. It seemed strange that there were no other houses or buildings, judging by the lack of lights. Two Red Berets stood guard in front of the entrance and two more inside. The foyer ceiling rose to the top of the third floor and gave a sense of being outdoors. We were met by several navy officers and led into a large auditorium. There we learned that the complex, known as Zann House, had been built exclusively for the indoctrination and selection process.

We were assigned our rooms and given a virtual tour. The first floor included the auditorium, a mess hall, exercise room, entertainment center, study room, and library. The second floor was reserved for the facility’s staff, private examining rooms, and a well-equipped hospital. And the third floor was dedicated to the candidates. Although the building was impressive on the outside, inside it was sterile with pale-colored marble floors, white walls and ceilings, and lack of pictures.

For the next twenty days, we remained isolated and bored, while waiting for the last of the three hundred candidates to arrive. I continued to spend three hours each day in the gym, exercising and lifting weights to strengthen my muscles. That helped to ease the fatigue. My strength improved and I gained two kilos. Unfortunately, there was nothing for me to take apart that I could get back together before I got caught and expelled; therefore, I spent most of my time alone in the library, learning about the navy and the Sadr Empire.

* * * *

Vice Admiral Zann gave the initial lectures. She was the first and only known human to host a Riss parasite. Only after she retired had she revealed her secret and petitioned the SAS to recognize the Riss as an intelligent race. It had taken them ten years to formulate an official policy, negotiate with the Riss, and finally seek volunteers for a trial project.

Predicated on Zann’s distinguished career in fleet and partly as a precautionary measure, the SAS decided that the Riss-humans, as they were to be officially designated, must dedicate their lives to fleet service. If selected, each candidate had to sign a contract that stipulated:

* Four years at the fleet academy and commissioning as an SAS Naval officer.

* A minimum of twenty-five years of active service.

* And, a mandatory tattoo for identification.

Zann’s lectures eliminated almost two hundred candidates. They voluntarily withdrew after learning that the Riss were similar to old-earth’s jellyfish in appearance—if you could see them inside a body—and each of them would, after leaving its Gorillai host, enter into the candidate’s body. There it would attach itself to the nervous system—including the brain. The Riss would be a life-long partner with its host and could, if it wished, completely control its host, as it did with the Gorillai.

I spent three agonizing days and nights thinking about what Zann had said. I wanted to meet aliens and loved the idea of having one as a partner, but did I want it inside me? Attached to me forever with the power to take control? I walked the hallways in a haze and lay awake soaked in sweat, trying to decide. The idea terrified me, yet it would grant me my dream of being in space, seeing new places and meeting an alien—up a little closer than I’d imagined. Each day I heard that another five or ten candidates had left. On the fourth day, I made my decision. Until I was accepted, I still had time to change my mind. I knew, however, deep inside me that I was committed. If selected, I would stay for better or worse.

The sixty-five remaining candidates were then introduced, one at a time, to the Riss in their current host, the Gorillai. When my turn came, Zann led me into the room. I wondered why she was holding my arm, until we entered. I stopped in shock and took a step backward. Sitting in a semicircle were twenty Gorillai, facing two empty chairs. They were a cross between an old-earth’s Gorilla and the legendary Big Foot. The average Gorillai looked to mass over one hundred fifty kilos and stand two hundred twenty centimeters tall. A terrifying sight to any human with a working brain.

I giggled when I realized I was fascinated, not terrified. I guess I don’t have a working brain. Now that I’d gotten over my shock, I felt too excited to sit.

“Vice Admiral Zann, can I talk to them? Will they mind if I stare at them? Can I go closer?” I rattled on without stopping for answers.

“Nadya, stop and take a deep breath.” Zann shook my arm for attention. “You can ask them questions, but they must be directed to me. The Gorillai are telepaths and communicate in streaming vid (SV). They understand some Eden standard, but they can’t make the appropriate sounds. I’ll translate the questions and responses to ensure there’s no ambiguity.”

I had hundreds of questions with only two hours to ask them. The Riss, who inhabited the Gorillai, were high-Riss—leaders of the Riss people—and lived high in the mountains on the planet Saipha. They had no machinery, tools, or houses; yet, they were mathematicians and philosophers. They also had memories going back over a thousand years. In turn, the Riss learned about my life on Corona, and my reasons for applying for the Riss Project. I left the room reluctantly with a promise that there would be many more sessions. That night I barely got two hours sleep, as I fantasized about life with a Riss.

The psychological and physiological testing intensified along with one-on-one counseling and meetings with the Riss. As the weeks passed, the number of candidates dwindled. Counselors or physicians disqualified them. Others came to the realization that volunteering had been a really bad idea.

After three months, twenty candidates remained. I learned from Vice Admiral Zann that the Riss would select the final ten.

The Riss selection process was transparent to the SAS monitors and us. I fantasized about being accepted, attending college, and being crew aboard a cruiser. I anguished over what I’d do if not selected.

I paced the hallways all night, waiting to hear if I’d been selected. My odds had gone from one in ten thousand to one in two. I was mentally committed to hosting an alien and could think of nothing else. I never stopped to think that if I were selected—I would be an alien.

Chapter 2

Twenty Gorillai sat in a large conference room eating an assortment of vegetables while the Riss inhabiting them were discussing the Riss Project, which they called the “Riss’ future”. Claws scraping on chinaplex bowls were the only sound in the room. The Riss “talked” telepathically in streaming vid (SV), and their names were each a vid of a scene, which could only be approximated in any spoken or written language. An elderly Riss—White rock warmed by the sun—tapped on the table for attention.

<The humans believe we are here because we want, over time, to find human hosts for all Riss. Although we know that is not true, we couldn’t convince them otherwise. In a way it doesn’t matter. We must learn how to exist as equals. This project is but a means to an end—for the Riss to go to the stars.> White rock warmed by the sun  projected resignation.

Swift running water  shuddered, projecting overwhelming fear. <I volunteered for this project; however, after interfacing with them, I’m not eager to have a human host. I fear being trapped in their bodies and unable to control them as we do the Gorillai. They are uncivilized. They lie, cheat, and kill each other. Their minds must be like wild beasts.>

<That is true, Swift running water, yet we are the future of the Riss. Through our sacrifice, the Riss will someday crew and command spaceships in our native Gorillai form—not human form.> White rock warmed by the sun projected hope.

Tall tree in the mountain shook his head, projecting strong doubt. <An ordeal that could last hundreds of years, since we will keep their human body alive as long as we live. We are a patient race, but can we live that long without being corrupted?>

White rock warmed by the sun  replied, <I do not know. Gentle breeze on the water did well with the human, Zann. It’s unfortunate that the humans have selected the list of potential hosts. But at least we’ll have the final choice of those candidates. We must make the best selection we can. A difficult situation since they don’t understand us, and we don’t understand them.> White rock warmed by the sun sent the words with strong feelings.

Snow glistening on the mountain top  projected determination. <We must select ten of the twenty candidates on the human’s list. I suggest we start with each of us selecting who she would prefer to host.>

White rock warmed by the sun was also determined. <Snow glistening on the mountaintop is right. This project is our future. Much is asked of those who finally commit to a human host. The Riss will remember their bravery as long as one Riss lives. Let us begin. Each will select one candidate and thereby eliminate the most objectionable.>

The process took less than a minute. The combination of telepathic communication and the emotions displayed in the SV eliminated the need for a tedious discussion. When it was done, only eight of the twenty candidates had one or more Riss willing to take him or her as a host. Where two or more Riss had expressed an interest in an individual, they chose the one who’d projected the most interest during the selection process. Although the participating Riss had volunteered, most had done so only for the good of the Riss nation. They didn’t desire a human host, nor to leave their native planet.

Of the three Riss who’d shown an interest in Nadya, only Snow glistening on the mountain top expressed cautious excitement about having her for a host. She’d chosen Nadya because her inquisitiveness paralleled Nadya’s. The other two Riss were more than willing to relinquish their claim, content to be among those returning home.

The Riss would have preferred to have gone only with the eight candidates selected, but the humans insisted there be ten.

White rock warmed by the sun projected determination and regret as he explained the requirements. <We must vote again. The humans insist on ten hosts. Each of us will vote for one of the twelve remaining.>

The process produced two candidates, each with two votes. Because none of the four Riss were enthusiastic, their deliberation lasted several minutes.

* * * *

The next day I was notified I was one of the ten selected. I laughed, I cried, I danced. I was going to the stars. That night I lay awake, fantasizing what it would be like. I forgot about the Riss.

The following day, I and the other candidates were tattooed. The SAS remained undecided about the humans who’d volunteered to accept a Riss parasite into his or her body and mind as equals. So in their infinite wisdom—and paranoia—they required the volunteers to be tattooed with a floral, old-English “Rh” tattoo on their left cheek. The “Rh” would have been distinctive; however, the floral design surrounding the “Rh” extended from the forehead to the neck and could be recognized from ninety meters.

The next day, the physical insertion began. I entered the room, excited and terrified as I approached the gray-white Gorillai, which I knew was totally controlled by its Riss. Today I would host a Riss. I understood the theory but reality transcended imagination. How long? Will it hurt? What will it feel like having a Riss inside me?  It was too late to change my mind, and I really didn’t want to. I had doubts and fears mixed with excitement. This was another thing for me to examine and understand. I decided to think of the Gorillai and the Riss as one entity—a…Riss. It seemed a simpler concept for now. I faced the…Riss—and waited.

Suddenly, she pulled me to her—the Riss considered themselves females because they gave birth to their offspring—and wrapped me in her furry arms. She had turned me so that my back rested against her chest. It felt like being wrapped in a warm furry coat. Nothing happened for a while. Then I felt a tickling sensation on my back and knew a tentacle was being inserted. I froze with fear. It didn’t hurt, but I could feel it moving inside me, crawling up my spinal column. I wanted to scream, to jump up, and run. I couldn’t. I was paralyzed. I fainted…

* * * *

When I woke, twelve hours had passed, and I rested against a dead Gorillai. I screamed. Immediately two men in white coats approached. One lifted me away from the Gorillai and placed me on a steel table. They stood, watching several monitors as a blue-light scanned me from head to foot.

An old, gray-haired man spoke. “Your functions look normal, Reese. Nurse Samel will help you back to your room. You need to rest today.” He was nodding as he continued to watch the monitors. In the back of my mind, I wondered how he knew what was normal.

I found that I needed Samel’s support as we walked back to my room. My legs felt like rubber and my mind fuzzy. The last thing I remembered was being helped into bed and covered with a blanket.

When I woke again, I lay quietly, expecting something to happen—nothing. Where’s that damn Riss?  “Say something.”

<Say Something.>

I looked around, looking for... It was in my head. “Can’t you speak?”

<Can’t you speak?>

I heard the thought and felt  the question. It was a strange sensation to feel a question, but I did. I began to understand. Zann’s Riss had transferred its knowledge to my Riss in SV, but not the words that went with it. She knew what a “door,” “hallway,” and “shuttle” looked like, but not the word-thoughts used to describe them. The language was too “content” sensitive and somewhat unique to each individual.

So for the first day, I walked around, pointing to things and saying the word. On the second day, I realized I didn’t need to talk. I could just look at an object and think the word. After a few days, I began talking in streaming vid.

<This is a door, which opens and closes.> I grabbed the door handle and opened and closed it. This went on for a week. She devoured the language and never forgot a word. I couldn’t believe it. By the end of the week she’d acquired a reasonable vocabulary. At first she tried responding in SV but soon began using words, since I wasn’t ready for SV.

<What do you think of our language?>

<Interesting. Limited.>

I felt her amusement. Felt. I’d heard the word “amusement” many times and knew when I was amused, but I’d never consciously felt the effect it had internally on nerves, tissues, and the brain.

As the days went by, my disappointment grew. I’d taught her the language but so what? I did for her, but she did nothing for me. I was no longer sure I wanted a Riss, but it was too late to change my mind. I couldn’t get rid of her or the tattoo on my cheek. I sulked. Then I began to realize I could feel people’s emotions—anger, anxiety, fear, joy, amusement…

* * * *

Slowly, “I” became “we,” and “you and I” became “us.” We were becoming partners—different, but one.

My contentment ended several days later. I staggered down hallways, banged into walls, fell, and generally accumulated new bruises on my old ones. My emotions oscillated between happy and depressed, angry and calm, relaxed and tense. I was mentally and physically exhausted by the end of each day.

<Please stop.> I pleaded.

<Fun.>

Amusement tingled through me. I couldn’t see what was fun.

<Stop!> I demanded.

<Necessary.>

I could feel her concentration as I weaved down hallways, stumbled up and down stairways, and blundered my way into and out of rooms.

<Please. I’ll do whatever you want.> I begged.

<Help you.>

My body vibrated with laughter, while spilling the soup in my spoon down my shirt and into my lap.

<I want control back. Or I’ll…> I didn’t know what I could do. I couldn’t even cry unless she permitted it. I was helpless. One morning, several days later, I found that I was back in control. Not a moment too soon. I think I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

<Why?>

<No help if not understand vehicle functions.> Her contentment flowed through me.

<Help me how? By controlling me?>

<Not want control. Want help. Run.> She radiated amusement. I decided I’d nothing to lose, and maybe I’d find out what was amusing. So I ran, hoping she wouldn’t suddenly take control. As I did, my speed continued to increase. Strange, I didn’t feel excessively out of breath or fatigued. I felt like superwoman.

<How?>

<Help you.> I felt her exhilaration.

For the next few days, we experimented. I found with her help that I could lift greater weights, and my ability to hear, see, and smell improved. I could sit in the mess hall and listen to conversations two tables away, read a paper someone was holding at the next table, and follow a person by his scent. Life was wonderful. Of course, I paid for the enhancements afterward. The more strenuous the activity, the more sleep I needed to recover.

<What’s your name? I can’t keep calling you “You there” or “Hey you.”>

She didn’t answer. Instead I saw a beautiful mountain with snow at its peak that glistened in the sunlight, majestic pine trees, mist from waterfalls, and much more. I understood.

<Your name’s a vid.>

<Yes.>

<We need to give you a new, shorter name like Zann did with Gentle breeze on the water.>

<Yes.>

I felt humor, so Snow glistening on the mountain top—the best I could describe her name in words—and I went off to the library to find a suitable name. Zann had named her Riss—Gentle breeze on the water—Danu, after a Celtic goddess. She’d said a goddess’s name seemed appropriate for anyone who’d her ancestors’ memories and could live hundreds of years. Following her example, we searched for several hours, looking at Roman, Greek, Celtic, and other goddesses. We finally settled on the three Graces: Aglaia—Splendor, Euphrosyne—Mirth, and Thalia—Good Cheer. Thalia seemed to fit her best, and anyway, Euphrosyne was too long.

<Like Thalia.> my Riss told me.

I felt a smile. The name seemed appropriate, since everything amused her.

* * * *

I sat in the cafeteria, drinking kaffa and reading about navy and army uniforms, awards, and rank insignia, when Jaelle and Alena approached.

“Hello, Nadya.”

Standing there with bloodshot eyes, they both looked depressed. Jaelle looked like she wanted to cry. Alena stood quietly next to her. They were depressed—awfully. I still found it strange to feel others’ emotions.

“You look terrible.”

<They and Riss bad time adjust.>

<Why?>

<Fight each other.>

“Get the others and come back here. We need to discuss your problem. I think I may be able to help.” They nodded briefly and shuffled away, eyes downcast.

<I help Riss. You help humans.>

An hour later, they sat at my table. No one looked happy.

“What’s the problem, Jaelle?” I wanted them to verbalize their feelings. Although I thought I understood the problem, I wanted to be certain before I offered advice.

“I’m carrying around a useless thing!” she barely whispered. The others nodded agreement. A couple shrugged.

“And you would like to get rid of ‘it’?”

There was a poignant silence.

“Yes,” Petar eventually replied.

“I understand. I felt the same way the first week. Now you couldn’t pry Thalia out of me. That’s the name we agreed on for her.” I paused to look around the table. “If you’re willing, I’ll try to help. Each day I’ll give you an exercise. At the end of the day, we’ll meet back here at 1800 hours to discuss it.” Most nodded, some shrugged. “Tomorrow’s exercise is to walk around pointing or looking at things, while saying or thinking its name. You don’t have to talk out loud, but you can if it seems more natural.”

* * * *

The group met with Thalia and me each day. By the end of four days, they were smiling.

“All right, two more exercises. First pick a name for your Riss. Zann picked Danu from Celtic Gods; I picked Thalia, the muse of comedy, because she has a terrible sense of humor. She thinks everything’s amusing.”

<Do not.>

I felt the lie and her smile. She couldn’t even lie properly.

<Riss cannot lie to Riss. We cannot lie to each other. Impossible.>

I hadn’t thought about it before, but mind-to-mind communication would make it impossible. You can’t really lie to yourself.

“The second part is to let your Riss learn how to take control of your body. It won’t be pleasant, but the benefits are enormous.”

“What! No way. We’re the masters,” Aldric said, his eyes narrow and lips tight in anger.

<Aldric last picked. Riss want eight. Humans insist ten.>

<You were forced to pick an additional two?>

<Yes.>

“You’re on your own now. Good luck.”

* * * *

We were required to meet every day with one or more councilors for evaluation and counseling. I was questioned, examined, and counseled by people who knew nothing about what I was experiencing or what should be considered normal. The only exception was Vice Admiral Zann, who visited periodically. With the remainder of the day free, Thalia and I were allowed to do as we pleased within the confines of the building.

<Scrambled eggs, little one.>

I assumed she’d insisted on calling me little one  because I was tiny compared to the Gorillai.

<The Fugenie appears broken. I programmed ice cream for dessert.>

This was the seventh or eighth time the mini-Fugenie in the snack room had produced the wrong order.

<We fix.>

<Good idea.>

Off to the library we went. Studying with Thalia gave reading a new meaning, which I struggled to master. While I read, my thoughts and Thalia’s commingled. It eventually produced a winner—sometimes Thalia and sometimes me. At first it gave me a headache; however, as time passed, things seemed to speed up and began to occur almost simultaneously. In the process I found that while the Riss had no written language, Thalia had a phenomenal ability to grasp new concepts. It would have taken only a few hours to absorb the theory and develop a reasonable hypothesis on how to correct the problem, if we hadn’t had to adjust to our new method of thinking.

During those days, we discovered a mutual love of exploration. That evening a maintenance man interrupted us while we had the mini-Fugenie completely dismantled and spread over two tables. Since it was late at night, it was the next day before he could report us to a councilor. By then Thalia and I had the mini-Fugenie reassembled and were gorging on ice cream. After learning what had happened, our councilors decided we were fully integrated and a good match.

Not all of us adapted. One man and one woman had to be returned to Saipha, to have their Riss transferred to a new Gorillai, since the original Gorillai host had died when the Riss transferred into the human. The Gorillai as a Riss-free animal had been extinct for over a thousand years. The current Gorillai were reproduced by the Riss exclusively to provide hosts for the next generation. In this case two new Gorillai would have to be produced to recover the two Riss from the returning Riss-humans.

Our evaluation over, we were enrolled in Eden’s fleet academy, Prometheus, a four-year college devoted to producing SAS Navy and Army officers. I didn’t know what to expect. Would the Rh tattoo mark me as special or an outcast? Tomorrow I would know.

Chapter 3

For realism and to acclimate the cadets to life aboard a spaceship, Prometheus  replicated an SAS cruiser in shape and environment. There were no windows, and the rooms were positioned and named consistent with the layout of a typical cruiser.

I’d entered Dante’s inferno. The senior-class cadets took delight in hassling the freshmen, claiming it a right of passage; however, for me—a Riss-human—it proved a trial by ordeal. Few understood the Riss-human concept beyond it being a parasite. Through hate, fear, or repulsion, they felt the need to prove me inferior or defective. Every senior who saw me in the hallway stood me at attention, having me repeat standard responses, answer personal questions, or ridicule and berate me about my physical appearance. Only Thalia saved me from being expelled, which of course was my tormentors’ intention. She found it amusing.

“Plebe! Attention!” a short chubby-faced senior shouted. After identifying him as a senior, I braced to attention.

<Everyone loves you.>

<Thanks for your insight.>

“Wipe that ridiculous tattoo from your face. Facial decoration is against navy regulations,” Chubby said, trying to look threatening.

<Not too smart. Can not wipe off tattoo? Besides, attractive.>

Naturally, Thalia laughed, which didn’t help me maintain the required blank expression.

“Sir. You should write me up and report me to the Commandant. Sir.” By now, Thalia had convinced me to play the game. They were just inferior humans. We were high-Riss and, therefore, superior.

“Are you being a smartass, Plebe? Kneel, Plebe! Kneel before me.”

“No, Sir. It’s your duty to report anyone who’s in violation of regulations. Sir.” I knelt.

“Kiss my feet, Plebe.” He smiled.

“Sir. That would be against regulations, Sir. I would have to report you, Sir.”

Day after day of demands that went well beyond hassling. With Thalia’s help, I not only endured, but I began to find it amusing. It became a duel of wits. There were limits they couldn’t exceed, and it became fun to watch their rising frustration.

I continued to exercise, since Eden’s gravity still bothered me. The navy gym became intolerable. The upper classmen wouldn’t leave me alone, taking every opportunity to leer and to insult me physically. In frustration, one morning I went to the army gym. When I arrived, I received lots of stares, heard whispers, but no one hassled me. The few seniors I encountered ignored me or had reasonable demands, which were almost perfunctory. From then on I used their gym, and they soon began to ignore me. One day while going through my daily routine, I saw what looked like a fight. I joined others who’d gathered to watch. Although violent, the fight looked like a graceful dance.

I stopped one of the soldiers after the fight was over. “Excuse me. Was that a real fight?”

He laughed. “No. That was Si’jin. A modern form of fighting taken from several of the ancient forms of martial arts. They’re all masochist.”

The Si’jin classes were held every morning before school classes started. I became a regular spectator. One morning, a man, who appeared to be the class instructor, approached me. He was tall and lanky with a narrow, clean-shaven face and short-cut black hair.

<He curious.>

I relaxed a bit.

“Cadet. You seem to be here most mornings watching. Why?”

“Sir. There’s a beauty in your movements. Sir.” I rose to attention and waited for the hassling to begin.

“I’m Master Gunnery Sergeant Talman. You may address me as ‘Gunny,’ but never, Sir. Why are you working out and why here?”

“Sir...Gunny. The gravity on my home planet is two-thirds Eden’s and SAS ships. I’m trying to get adjusted. I exercise here because the army seniors are...less abusive. Gunny.”

“One ‘Gunny’ will do. Would you like to join the class?”

“Gunny. Yes. Gun—”

“Yes, Gunny, will do. I’m not a cadet. If the others have no objections, you can.” He turned and walked back to the group. I thought my tattoo would almost guaranty the answer would be “No.”

<Do not get horse before cart.>

<It’s cart—> I could feel the laughter before I finished the thought.

<I know.>

Gunny walked back and nodded. “They’ve agreed conditionally. They want time to evaluate you before they reach a final decision. Every morning at 0600 hours, unless your duties interfere.” He turned and walked back to the class, dismissing me.

The next day, I showed up ten minutes early. The class included eight students: one senior, two sophomores, one freshman, one Lieutenant, and three sergeants. The army personnel were assigned to teach various courses to the army cadets. The sergeants’ and Lieutenant’s attitudes varied from indifference to curious. The sophomores and freshman accepted me with some reservation. Most treated me as just another student. They were bigger and stronger, and rough, but it wasn’t personal. The senior, on the other hand, was cruel and clearly hated me. I knew he had agreed only because he wanted to punish me—and he took every opportunity he could. When he demonstrated a technique, he made sure he caused me as much pain as possible, but not so much that it would cause Talman to interfere.

<Why does Gunny allow him to be extra rough with me?>

<He judge you.> I felt Thalia’s smile.

<That makes me feel better.>

In spite of all the pain, I loved it. There was a dynamic beauty in the movements of those students who’d several years of Si’jin experience. I made Si’jin my goal, regardless of the pain.

The number of knots on a person’s belt showed his or her Si’jin proficiency. I was surprised to find that my tormentor ranked moderately high in the class. All four students had four knots, the army Lieutenant and sergeants, five. I had none and didn’t care. The strenuous morning workout calmed me for what was to come afterward. Over the months, I slowly became accepted, and the class became interested in the Riss and me. I willingly answered questions about being a Riss-human in exchange for information about their classes and duties. It surprised me that they found the Riss-human concept interesting rather than repulsive. My nemeses never participated.

In the second semester of my freshman year, Thalia was having trouble keeping up with the bruises the senior was inflicting.

<Enough.>

<He’s better than me.>

<You high-Riss. Remember technique sergeant teach.>

<Yes.>

The tormenting senior was repeatedly using a triple technique which ended in an elbow to my head. Each time it spun me around and I hit the floor.

“You’re a slow learner, Reese,” He grinned. “Up and we’ll try it again.”

My Riss prompted. <Now.>

I rotated right as his right elbow approached, which normally struck me in the head. I continued spinning. As I completed the three hundred and sixty-degree turn, I drove my elbow into his ribs. He doubled in pain. I followed with an elbow to his back. As he straightened with the pain, I swept his feet out from under him. He landed hard on his back. Knee first, I fell onto his chest and rolled away.

“Yes, I believe I’ve finally learned that move,” I said, watching him on the floor with his arms wrapped around his body. Everyone looked over; many were grinning. Talman had been watching. He said nothing.

For the rest of the semester we continued our vendettas. Every three to five techniques, I’d surprise him with a violent counterattack. He became very careful, not sure when or how I would strike. My bruises lessened but didn’t stop. Fortunately, he was a senior and would be gone at the end of the year.

<His bruises last longer. Not have good doctor.> I felt Thalia’s laugh and satisfaction.

<He’s an inferior human.> It was my turn to laugh.

* * * *

Most of my school instructors ignored me. Those wouldn’t acknowledge me when I had a question. Naturally, a few were repulsed. They tended to look for ways to try to make me look foolish. Thalia found it amusing. It became a challenge to make sure we were prepared with several days material in advance. They soon quit. Only one seemed curious. He selected me more often than others to answer questions and spent extra time exploring my responses. I felt it an attempt to evaluate rather than to embarrass.

Before I could rise to leave the class, one of my ignore me  instructors approached.

“I’d appreciate it if you would stop trying to ask questions in class, cadet. If you don’t know the answer, I suggest you study harder. Then you won’t have to disrupt the class.” He was an elderly Lieutenant Commander. Raw hate emanated from him.

<Maybe afraid not know answer.>

I couldn’t help but smile. Totally inappropriate but I couldn’t help it. Thalia refused to stop it.

<Actions inappropriate for man his rank.>

I mentally shook my head. <Smiling inappropriate for my rank.>

“What are you smiling at, cadet? I can have you up on report for disrespect.” His voice rose as he spoke, and his face turned a shade of pink.

“Sir, I smiled because I realize that you’re right. I do need to spend more time on my books.”

<We learn more.>

“My Riss has just pointed out that there seem to be a lot of us in your class who need to study harder, Sir.”

“You’re close to being on report... Whatever your name.” He’d turned from pink to red and shook his finger at me. “Shut up or I’ll have you on report.”

<You can talk to me.>

Her laugh rippled through my body. Fortunately, she stopped me from laughing. From that time on, I attended classes but never talked except to Thalia. It was less trouble and more informative to get the answers from the extensive online library.

Several of my instructors began giving me extra projects as punishment for some unknown infraction. My workload increased dramatically. I assumed they’d gotten together and decided to push me beyond my limit. Ironically, I enjoyed the opportunity to expand my studies outside the lectures, which could be dull when no one would talk to you.

Between the classes, extra projects, and Si’jin, I had little time for anything else. Thalia suggested I sleep only six hours a night. I didn’t like the idea of being tired for my classes; however, she did something that sent me to sleep instantly and kept me from dreaming so much. When I woke, I felt rested and refreshed. Thus my freshman year ended.

Most cadets left school to visit relatives, friends, or vacation somewhere. I had no relatives, my friends were on another planet, and the reaction of the cadets had given me an insight into the probable reaction of the civilian population. They wouldn’t be restrained by the rules imposed at the academy.

* * * *

My second year improved, if for no other reason than most of the seniors left me alone; those who didn’t I could ignore without recourse. By now everyone in the school had an opinion of the Riss-humans. Although I had new instructors, it soon became apparent they’d discussed me and formed an opinion before I walked into the class. Life remained the same. The extra projects continued and seemed designed to drive me out of the school. Since I had no real friends outside the Si’jin class, Thalia and I appreciated the extra work to expand our knowledge. Thalia could have stayed awake for days at a time, if my body hadn’t needed sleep. She suggested I cut back to three hours sleep a night. We compromised at five, which proved adequate.

I enjoyed my Si’jin classes and earned two knots. Although not much above a beginner, I felt like I had made Lieutenant Commander.

* * * *

My third year improved a little more. The extra projects kept coming; however, for the most part, they felt more like an attempt to evaluate rather than to punish or break me. If not totally accepted, the Riss-humans were less of a novelty and pretty much ignored.

I continued to be fascinated with Si’jin and earned my third knot. It identified me as a novice with some experience. I improved as my experience increased and began scoring occasionally against the four-knot sergeants. I only survived because Thalia worked her magic, reducing the swelling and repairing most of the damage.

I felt at ease in the army gym, because the people there were more tolerant of me. At times, I felt like I was in the army. I’d also been unconditionally accepted as a member of the Si’jin class. New students joined, but they had no say about my status. Outside the Si’jin classes, I still got plenty of snide remarks, ugly looks, and a few threats, which never materialized. Although it hurt, I was getting used to it.

<Hopefully they grow up someday.>

Amusement tingled through me. By now I expected no less from her. Thalia had been a good choice of names.

* * * *

I returned from a workout late one evening and found the room empty. Although it was strange, I thought nothing about it. The door burst open just as I had finished getting ready for bed. Three cadets came in and closed the door.

“Well, the bitch, oh, I mean the Riss is all ready for us. With the Riss helping, she should be able to give each of us a couple of rounds.” They laughed and the tall man in the middle began stripping. “You’re not going to do anything, bitch. My father’s on Eden’s council, and I’ve witnesses that you invited us to have sex. You’ll be expelled if you say anything.”

<Ready?>

I could feel the adrenaline, and everything slowed as Thalia prepared me to fight.

“I love sex.” I stripped off my nightgown. “So does Thalia. She has five babies that need a home. Come and get them. Then you’ll be just like me, except you won’t have a silly tattoo.”

“You’re not contagious. Do you take me for a fool?”

<What do you think, Thalia?>

<All three.>

“Not normally, except during fluid transfer. Why do you think none of us want sex? But since you do, let’s go!” I held up my arms for an embrace.

“You’re lying!”

“Yes, I am. Come on, I’m getting cold and need some warming,” I said, blinking my eyes at him. He began backing away, while pulling his pants back on. All three ran out the door.

<That fun.>

I would have thought so too if the incident hadn’t been so flagrant. My roommates had aided them; the boys believed they had a right and wouldn’t be punished; and the administration would turn a blind eye because I was a Riss-human. To add further insult, three days latter they dragged me out of class to see the Commander in charge of personnel. He left me waiting for two hours. When I was finally ushered into his office, he had the nerve to smile.

“Reese, I understand that you Riss-humans are contagious. You’ll all be removed as soon as I contact SAS.” His smile grew bigger. It made his pudgy face look like it had been carved out of a pumpkin.

“Sir, I’m afraid someone’s playing a joke on you. We’re not contagious.”

“During sex!” He shouted and his face turned a pretty dark orange.

“I doubt the SAS would sanction this project if we were contagious.”

<You think this is funny too.>

<Yes, very!>

Her amusement tingled and I relaxed. Another fool.

“They don’t know!” he shouted.

“I guess Vice Admiral Zann is stupid, not knowing her fifty-year companion is contagious. Perhaps someone should tell her. Of course if someone is playing a joke on you, she might not be amused, and may have the incident investigated. You’d do the same if someone reported made-up rumors to you, wouldn’t you, Sir?” I tried to look concerned. He sat there for several minutes drumming his fingers on the desk.

“You can go, Reese.”

“Yes, Sir.” I saluted, turned, and left. Later I heard a rumor that three boys had been suspended.

<Did navy favor.>

I felt her joy ripple through me.

* * * *

In the middle of my senior year, the academic professors realized I and the other Riss-humans were well ahead of our peers. To probe our true potential, the instructors were directed by the SAS evaluation team to assign us advanced special projects in addition to our normal class load.

By the end of the year, six of us had exceeded all their expectations. The other two had out-performed their classmates but had only marginal results on their special projects. On the last day of the school year we received our graduation certificates, were sworn into the SAS Navy as Junior Grade (JG) Lieutenants, and received our assignments.

To our mutual disappointment, I and the other Riss-humans weren’t assigned to spaceships. We were enrolled in Hephaestus, an advanced college for fast-track JGs and Lieutenants. Thalia and I wanted space, not more school.

Prometheus closed for the summer, which again left me with nothing to do. I had earned my fourth knot in Si’jin early in the year and decided to spend my time practicing, while waiting for Hephaestus to open. That’s when I found that Gunny Talman and several of his class were staying at school, awaiting their next assignment. I worked hard that month and earned a fifth knot. After Talman awarded my fifth knot, he pulled me aside.

“Reese, you told me you never used...Thalia’s help during your training. Is that true?”

“Yes, Gunny. When I practice alone, Thalia and I discuss the techniques, the muscles in play, and balance. But during class, Thalia never helps me.” I wasn’t sure why Talman asked. Perhaps he thought I cheated.

<Using me not cheating. We same person.>

Thalia had a point. I’d refused her help because it felt like cheating.

“Would you mind a demonstration using Thalia?”

“No, Gunny. So long as no one except the class is present.” Although I wasn’t out to prove anything, I knew what could happen. Best to keep it among friends.

The contest was held the next day in a smaller room with only the class present. I was surprised to find Gunny had paired me with Sergeant Veltin. She had earned her six knots a long time ago.

We stood facing each other waiting for Talman’s signal to start. Veltin looked relaxed and non-threatening, except for the predator look in her eyes. As soon as Talman dropped his hand, she attacked with deadly speed and ferocity. But not fast enough. Thalia had enhanced my system. Veltin looked in slow motion, because my reflexes were those of a real snowcat. Her combination was beautiful—a strike at the abdomen, a kick to the knee, and an elbow to the head. I blocked each and landed an elbow to her head, which spun her around. In the process, her leg hooked around, attempting to sweep my legs from under me. A move I had never seen before. She caught my legs, but I managed to roll away and come up ready before she could attack. We continued for a long time—attack and counter attack over and over again. She scored what would have been several crippling or killing blows; however, I scored three to her one. In a real contest, the winner would be the first one to score, not the one who scored the most.

“Stop!” Talman moved in between us. In the heat of the raging battle between two titans, we may not have heard or maybe didn’t care. We managed to stop on the third stop, sweating and out of breath.

<You pay for enhancement tonight. Much tired.> A soothing sensation rippled through me.

Veltin laughed. “Remind me not to get you mad at me. You and Thalia are awesome.” She’d taken the match in good humor. “I understand why you didn’t want an audience. You didn’t want to embarrass me in front of outsiders. It wouldn’t have mattered, but I thank you for the thought.”

Talman entered the discussion. “Except for your lack of experience and advanced moves, with Thalia’s help you’d be a seventh knot. I’m glad you chose not to use her help. I think it would have detracted from your training and alienated you with the class. You and Veltin fought like two masters. A fight I would have paid to see. I’m proud of you both.”

The next day, I began packing for my move to Hephaestus, not sure what to expect. The academy had been interesting, frustrating, and a window into what I could expect in my new life as a Riss-human. With the assignment to Hephaestus, the struggle to gain acceptance would began anew.

< You sorry accepted Riss partner, little one?>

For the first time, no amusement or smiles.

<No, Thalia. You’ve become as much a part of me as my arms and legs. We’re a duality with the same dreams and hopes. I’m happy to be sharing my life with you.>

Chapter 4

I froze in fear. The bright blue sky, the open landscape, and the buildings glistening in the sunlight terrified me. It was the first time I’d been outside of Prometheus in four years.

<I guess it worked. Prometheus’s design does acclimate you for spaceship duty. I should have ventured out at vacation time.>

<Feel like let out cave.>

A wave of pleasure ran through me. I’d neglected Thalia, forgetting she’d lived all her life outdoors. I’d locked her up, because I feared leaving the safety of the building.

<Must get used to confinement. Fresh air now and then nice.>

I spent the rest of the day walking aimlessly through the trees, lying on the grass, and watching the clouds float quietly by. Thalia remained quiet, but I could feel the ecstasy she felt. I stayed the night, enjoying the faraway lights of the city and the twinkling stars in the heavens. No thoughts of spaceships or Prometheus or Hephaestus.

“JG, what are you doing lying there? Are you drunk?” A tall Lieutenant Commander stood scowling down at me.

I jumped up and braced to attention. “No, Sir. I just graduated Prometheus. It’s the first time I’ve been outside in four years. I’ve been enjoying the fresh air, before I report to Hephaestus.”

“Four years? Hephaestus? Oh, the tattoo. You’re one of the Riss-humans.” He shook his head and I felt his uneasiness. He pointed. “Hephaestus is the tall building over there. You best be reporting for duty.”

I straightened my uniform and followed him, since he seemed to be going in the same direction. As I walked, I could feel Thalia’s relief. The building had lots of windows. It appeared very old and made from red brick. Ten steps led to an arched entrance with two over-sized wooden doors. Two army corporals stood at the entrance. They both came to attention and saluted as the Lieutenant Commander and I approached. I almost didn’t return their salutes, thinking it intended solely for the Lieutenant Commander. When they held their salutes, I realized they were waiting for me.

<You high-Riss. Officer, little one.>

<Yes, we are.>

I stopped at the doors to read the inscription carved into the overhead stone: “From this forge comes the strength of SAS.”

I entered into a large circular vestibule with marble floors and an ornate staircase, leading to the second floor. The staircase split into two half way up, one curving to the right and the other to the left. In the middle of the room a sergeant stood behind a marble counter.

“Can I help you, ma’am?”

“Yes, Sergeant. My orders state I’m to report to Hephaestus.”

“Ma’am, please report to the office to your right. They’ll take care of registering you.”

Inside the room there were two desks, a row of file cabinets, and a table full of office equipment. At the desk to my right sat an elderly Master Sergeant. He looked up when I closed the door. A middle-aged First Lieutenant sat at a desk towards the rear of the room. He looked overweight, had thinning gray hair and a sour face.

“Ma’am, can I help you?”

“Yes, Sergeant. My orders state I’m to report to Hephaestus.” I handed him the disk with my orders. After he scanned the information, he reached into his desk and pulled out a blue disk with a Hephaestus seal and handed it to me. “This disk contains your class assignments, school layout, and school regulations. If you’ll put your hand on this pad, I’ll set the lock for your room.”

“JG!” The First Lieutenant rose from his desk. His face twisted in anger and a finger pointing in my direction. “You’d better get that face cleaned. Face art isn’t allowed.”

<Should we tell him?>

<No. Take much time.>

“Yes, Sir.” Before I could leave, the sergeant cleared his throat.

“Ma’am, your classes aren’t due to start for five days; however, you and the other Riss-humans have a meeting with the school commandant, Rear Admiral Critton, tomorrow morning at 0900 hours.” He looked at my name again.

<He surprised.>

“Ma’am, you’re Nadya Reese?”

“Yes, Sergeant.”

“Gunny...Master Gunnery Sergeant Wei would like to talk to you at your convenience, ma’am,” he said after standing, which seemed unnecessary. I assumed it concerned something Gunny Talman had told Wei. I’d find out soon enough.

The sergeant picked up a small Handcom. “Corporal Leary, please give JG Reese a tour of the facility. Ma’am, the corporal will meet you in the hallway.”

<When did I become ma’am? Everyone’s older than me.>

<Appropriate. You high-Riss. Two hundred-years old.>

Her laugh rippled through me. I couldn’t help but smile. The corporal walked me through the building, giving me a guided tour of the classrooms, study hall and library, staff offices, and dining facility. I noticed that the dining room tables had tablecloths, unlike the steel tables at Prometheus. He concluded the tour by showing me to my assigned sleeping quarters. I don’t know what I’d expected. At Prometheus, I’d shared a room with three other women. I stood there with my mouth open. It was a private room. Although the room was small, it had a bed, table-like desk, computer, bathroom, and a window. I could feel Thalia’s sigh of relief. I gave a sigh of my own at the thought of being able to study alone without interruptions.

“Corporal, do you know where I can locate Gunny Wei?” I was anxious to see the Gunny, hoping he’d allow me access to the army exercise room. It had been the army that had helped me maintain my sanity at Prometheus.

“Yes, ma’am. He’s in the army workout room right now. If you’d like, I’ll take you there.”

We walked down two flights of stairs to the basement. Off to the right was a large open space and on the left exercise machines, weights, and various other apparatuses.

Everyone in the room was army. The room became quiet when I entered, and I was besieged with an array of emotions: surprise, anger, and amusement. Even at Hephaestus there seemed to be a separation between army and navy personnel.

I singled out the closest man. “I’m looking for Gunny Wei.”

He pointed at an elderly man with a rope containing ten knots. The man must not need a shuttle to get to the spaceport. I walked toward him, conscious that everyone watched. Stopping several meters away, I waited to be acknowledged. When he turned, I bowed.

“I’m Nadya Reese. I was told you wanted to see me, Master Wei.” I used his Si’jin title since he wasn’t in uniform.

He looked me up and down before nodding. “Master Talman recommended you and asked if I would teach you. Why should I?”

The question took me by surprise. It shouldn’t have. Si’jin Masters only taught those they considered worthy. Why should he consider me? I looked around at his current students. The lowest rank was five knots, the highest seven.

<He curious. You high-Riss.>

<I don’t think that counts.> He meant from his perspective not mine. What I wanted didn’t matter.

“I can’t think of a reason why you should, Master Wei.”

“Four reasons. You came to me; you came immediately; you showed respect; and you didn’t assume I cared about your reasons. Two would have been sufficient with Master Talman’s recommendation. You may joint my class as duty permits.” He turned his attention back to his students. I felt like laughing, dancing, and singing all at once. Instead, I turned and walked towards the exit. Everyone in the room watched me. Many stood with their mouths open.

<Humans strange. You say no reason teach. He say yes.>

<I’m high-Riss.> I smiled. For once I’d caught Thalia off guard.

* * * *

At 0900 hours, I and the other Riss-humans sat in Rear Admiral Critton’s conference room. Critton sat at the head of the table, hands cupped under his chin, looking at each of us in turn. I met his steel-gray eyes when he looked at me. He looked neither friendly nor hostile.

“The Riss-human project team has assigned you to Hephaestus  because of your outstanding performance at Prometheus  and as a way to evaluate your potential. Since you’re a test case, you can expect to be closely monitored over your entire career. I question the wisdom of sending new graduates of Prometheus directly to Hephaestus; however, it’s not my decision to make. This college has been reserved for experienced JGs and Lieutenants whose performance puts them on a fast track for promotion. Unlike the others, you’ve no experience.” He paused to take a sip of water.

<You tense.>

Immediately I began to relax.

“Although SAS looks at this as a test, never doubt that your performance here won’t affect your career. There are no formal grades; however, you’ll receive an evaluation. Ten percent won’t graduate. They’ll be lucky to finish their careers as Lieutenant Commanders. Thirty-five percent will receive a Without Comment rating. That will remove them from fast track status and return them to normal time-in-grade promotions. The remaining students will receive a With Comment rating, which assists their career, but which doesn’t actually include a comment. For those who receive a With Comment rating, Junior Grade Lieutenants will be promoted to Lieutenant, and Lieutenants will be given an additional three years time in grade. Most of these Lieutenants will be promoted to Lieutenant Commander within a year, two at maximum. This briefing is the last special treatment you’ll receive over the next year and a half. You’ll be just eight of the sixty entering this semester.” He looked around the table.

I didn’t know whether to take that as a good or bad sign. It was definitely a message.

“Any questions?”

No one spoke. I had lots of questions but decided they could wait. I felt like I’d just been thrown off a cliff to see if I could fly.

* * * *

“What do you think, Nadya?” Elissa asked as we entered the classroom for our People Dynamics course. The other Riss-humans were taking the class but at different times.

“Well, we’re no longer plebes. I doubt these officers will take any overt action, since it would probably count against their final rating. Nothing else will change. We’re still aliens.”

<Yes. You high-Riss.>

“Thalia just reminded me we’re high-Riss, and they’re not.” I marveled at her view of life. It’s to be enjoyed. To find the best in whatever is happening. “Come, Elissa, let’s find out how the navy’s supposed to act around aliens.”

The first class was mostly an introduction to what would be taught this semester, and the reference books we should be studying. I wasn’t sure how much the other students heard while staring at Elissa and me. After class, I approached our instructor, Commander Weller.

“Sir, I believe Elissa and I are going to be a distraction. From experience, it’ll continue so long as they can’t address their fears and concerns.”

“What do you suggest, Reese?” he said, looking hard at my face.

“If you would allow me some time in your class, I would like to talk about the project and give them a chance to ask questions. Since this is a class on people interaction, I assume you’ll be covering prejudices as part of that discussion.” I knew this was shaky ground, but it was important to me that we somehow get beyond rumors and suppositions. He reached up towards my tattoo. When I nodded, he ran his finger over it. The touch was so light it tickled.

“I’ll allow you time tomorrow; however, you’ll stop if I tell you to. Is that understood?”

“Yes, Sir.”

<This should be fun.>

<I’m terrified. It could get out of control easily, or it may cause more resentment.>

<You high-Riss. Afraid nothing.>

<I’m high-Riss, but I’m still afraid.>

* * * *

The next day, Weller introduced me.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, this is JG Reese. I’m allowing her time to talk about the Riss Project.”

I stood and looked around. No one smiled.

“I’m a Riss-human, which you can see from a hundred meters away.” That received a few chuckles. “I volunteered...”

The discussion, questions, and answers were well received. Weller decided to make it a regular topic throughout the semester. He loved it because it went to the heart of prejudices and interacting with people from other societies and different customs. I noticed a definite change in attitude from the majority of the class. We were no longer treated like we had a disease. At lunch others joined us, and we made good friends. I became particularly close to Lieutenant Bradshaw. It seemed we spent a great deal of time together, studying, at meals, and in Si’jin class. I found he’d earned five knots. It was the first time since I became a Riss-human that I felt normal.

* * * *

Two weeks before the semester was about to end, Bradshaw came banging on my door late at night.

“Nadya, two of the Riss have taken control of their humans. You might be next,” he whispered, almost in tears. “I’ve been told Rear Admiral Critton has placed them under guard.”

I knew this was everyone’s worst fear. I dressed and followed him to where they were being held. The two army guards reluctantly let me enter, after Gunny Wei nodded.

<Well Thalia, what happened?>

I knew deep in my bones the Riss had a good reason. SV flew back and forth. Although I didn’t understand all of the exchange, I grasped the essence of the conversation. The next day, I sought out Rear Admiral Critton.

“Sir, with your permission, I would like to bring the two Riss-humans who are presently under guard in front of the student body to discuss what happened.”

“Are you sure it’s safe? We don’t want any one hurt.” He was looking at me like he was trying to read my mind.

“Yes, it’s very safe, Sir.” When he nodded, I went and collected them; however, Critton insisted the guards accompany us.

* * * *

An hour later, I stood in front of nearly two hundred students and staff with the two Riss-humans behind me.

“By now you know that the Riss have assumed control of two of their human hosts. Many of you’ve jumped to the commonly held misconception that the Riss want to control humans and take over the world. It’s a perfect example of emotions taking control of reason. Who has asked themselves, ‘Why?’ Anyone?” I looked around the lecture hall at nervous faces, including Critton’s.

“Aldric’s Riss, Floating White Clouds, has assumed control of him. Why? Because at Prometheus, he used his Riss’s ability to increase his strength, reflexes, and speed and to form a clique. These men terrorized others into doing illegal and immoral acts, which included forcing women cadets to have sex with them. Here he began cheating on examinations and selling answers to assignments. His Riss decided she could no longer tolerate behavior abhorrent to the Riss. She’s taken control to stop his actions and desires to be returned to Saipha to have him removed.

“Egon’s Riss, White stone in the snow, has assumed control of Egon to stop his torment. He has succumbed to continuous insinuations by the uninformed that his Riss wants to control him. He’s slowly going insane.”

We spent the next two hours discussing the Riss. I finished with words of wisdom that I’ll never forget. “Gunny Wei told me something I’d like to leave with you. I asked him why he didn’t react to the tattoo on my face the first time he saw me. Take out your Handcoms and enter the following: ‘I saw you, not your face.’”

* * * *

“That was impressive, Nadya,” Bradshaw said when we were alone. “I have to admit I panicked. I feared for you... I’m very fond of you.” He hesitated. “We have a two-week break coming soon. I know you usually stay at the school. I understand why, but would you consider going with me, upcountry. We could visit the Misty Valley resort area. It’s beautiful there.”

I wanted to go but knew what would happen. “You don’t want to be with me. You’ll be insulted and constantly be put in a position of feeling you should defend me. I’m not worth it.”

<You high-Riss. Worth much.>

I felt Thalia’s encouragement. It felt like lying warm and cozy in bed on a cold winter night.

<Thalia, I don’t regret you regardless of the consequences. I’m content to say here.>

<Like see new things.>

< I don’t want to see him hurt.>

“I think you’re worth it,” he said, interrupting my conversation with Thalia. “We’ll walk around in our Navy uniforms. Edenians tend to like the military. For the rest, who’s going to win an argument with two five-knot Si’jin practitioners?”

<Smart man. Like.>

Reluctantly, I agree to go.

* * * *

We took a shuttle to the Misty Valley and stayed at a single-story resort overlooking the valley. The building had been constructed from indigenous rock and designed to blend into the surrounding mountains, which it did. The resort was self-contained and provided hundreds of amenities: restaurants, shops of every kind, exercise and massage facilities, swimming pools, and more. In addition, there were many outside activities.

The first week we saw the sites, took advantage of the facilities, and ate at most of the restaurants, which offered an assortment of food from the various planets of the SAS. The second week we spent in bed.

At first, I wasn’t sure about having sex while carrying a Riss—not that I could get rid of her, even if I wanted to. Bradshaw seemed to rationalize that Thalia came with the package that was I. After the first night, I didn’t care. Thalia, as usual, took it as part of its host. I’d always enjoyed sex for its own sake and thought my serious boy friends reasonably satisfying. Bradshaw proved different—much better.

<Very interesting. Pleasant.>

Thalia did produce humorous comments at awkward times, but Bradshaw thought it funny. He looks at life much like Thalia, I mused.

<Leave the comments for afterward.>

<If you insist. But may forget.>

I was truly happy and wished the time with him would never end.

* * * *

“Doctor Dayton, is it possible for you to give someone a fake tattoo that can’t be washed off but can be easily removed by you?”

Dayton was a tall woman with a long, thin face and penetrating blue eyes. She gave me a long hard stare. “I understand your concern, but I can’t remove your tattoo and wouldn’t if I could.”

<Only thinks she understands.>

<Tattoo look good. Why remove?>

I couldn’t help but smile and immediately held up my hand before Dayton could say any more.

“Thalia, my Riss, says the tattoo looks good.” I chuckled at the look on her face. “I want to try an experiment in Commander Weller’s class. I’d like to tattoo each student, so they can experience prejudice first-hand. Of course, we’ll want to remove it afterward. No sense having the tattoo permanently and not the Riss.”

She laughed, her eyes twinkling. “I’m sorry. I jumped to the same conclusion you’re trying to teach Weller’s students not to do. Tell...Thalia…I’m sorry. The tattoo is beautiful. Yes, I can produce a realistic tattoo in about an hour and remove it in about the same time.”

Commander Weller agreed to the project immediately. I believe he’d have liked to try it himself. Two students were tattooed each week. They spent a day or two at Prometheus and at least one day in town. After two men attacked one of the students, those who tried the experience later were provided two out of uniform soldiers to inconspicuously follow them. Weller was ecstatic with the results.

The students weren’t. “Reese, how do you tolerate the abuse? It’s humiliating, degrading. I could have killed some of them. I felt like ripping the tattoo off my face, and you’ve to keep it for the rest of your life.”

The class proved extremely successful. Weller had a perpetual smile for the entire semester.

* * * *

The class on Officer Behavior proved interesting. It started with the Ensign’s duties and concerns and then moved up the chain of command. At each new level, the position required the officer to ignore some of his or her previous duties and assume new ones. We followed that logic all the way to the Captain. It gave me a good perspective of a career in the navy.

The class on System Gestalt taught us how one system related and depended upon the other for the ship to function at peak performance. We looked at the whole, rather than the detailed parts. Thalia loved it.

<Go to stars, fun.>

* * * *

Bradshaw and I went to Red Canyon during the semester break. I savored every minute of the two weeks, knowing this would be the last time with him. Soon we’d both be assigned to cruisers and possibly never meet again. I would remember those precious moments for the rest of my life—my first true love.

* * * *

In the third and final semester, each student selected a personal project, which was due by the end of the semester.

<Well, Thalia, what do you suggest?> I didn’t have a clue. I loved learning new things, but this required creating something new.

<Mathematics.>

<What?> I liked math but...I was speechless.

<Good at mathematics.>

To humor Thalia, our project became math. We were to provide solutions for fifty navigational problems and ascertain the characteristics of the mathematics involved. We discovered the Riss had a system of mathematics that paralleled navigational computations. The Riss, however, had no computers or paper and had to perform the math in their minds. Consequently, they had over the centuries developed a system simplifying the calculations. As a side project, we translated the human equations into the Riss system, using symbols approximating the Riss images. By the end of the semester, we’d finished our school project and had make progress on documenting our Riss system symbols relevant to space navigational math. I hoped it would eventually prove useful.

In the final week, Master Wei presented me with my sixth knot, which meant I could now teach Si’jin. When you’re promoted, the Master who promotes you gives you a black knot with his symbol, and a color band designating his rank. If he has six knots, you get Red; seven, yellow; eight, green; nine, blue; and ten, black. I now had two red, three blue and one black. A sixth black knot was prestigious; one signed by Wei, priceless.

* * * *

So ended my stay at Hephaestus. I graduated With Comment and was promoted to Lieutenant.

“Nadya, what assignment did you get?” Alena asked as we each scanned the disks containing our orders.

“The Peregrine, a Defender class Light cruiser,” I said, hoping some of my friends would be on the same ship.

To my sorrow, no one I knew had been assigned to the Peregrine. I’d made good friends and lost them. I’d be starting over again.

<We survive, one day, one task, one person at a time, little one.>

Chapter 5

I entered the shuttle with my emotions at war—excitement, joy, and hope, colliding with frustration, despair, and rage—like clashing titans with my skull the bloody battle field. Being the only officer on the 0600 hours shuttle, I entered first and threw myself into the seat adjacent to the hatch. By tradition, officers entered and exited first by rank. Distracted, I hardly noticed the enlisted personnel who entered after me.

< Fools should be ignored. They live in fear of life.> Thalia chided with a laugh that vibrated like a tuning fork. It produced a calming effect that somehow dissolved the toxic anger and tension.

< Thank you, Thalia. I should know better by now.> I replied with a mental sigh as I thought back to the incident at customs...

I’d entered the shuttle terminal bubbling with excitement at the thought of beginning my great new adventure aboard the cruiser Peregrine. It was my first fleet assignment. Thalia and I would be traveling to the stars. I couldn’t help smiling and humming softly as I handed the customs officer my fleet ID badge. Scowling, he took it carefully. Using only his thumb and index finger, he placed it into his scanner. Immediately, my picture appeared on the computer’s screen. I pressed my palm to the plate on the counter and “Verified” appeared across my picture. Ignoring me, he flung my ID on the counter and waved for me to proceed through the gate. His pale, clean-shaven face twisted in hatred, and he reeked of fear as he backed safely away from the counter and me. I felt his fear slowly give way to disgust as he stood with his back rigid against the barrier to the next station. The regular army soldiers guarding the entrance into the terminal likewise stepped back and away from me as I proceeded through the body-scan gate. Although such reactions no longer surprised me, I felt the pain and cruelty of the knee-jerk discrimination. Their salute was tentative and sloppy…

The slight shudder as the shuttle lifted off shook me out of my brooding. I turned to the window and watched Eden diminish in size as the space-docking terminal Hercules  grew. From a distance, the massive structure looked like three old-fashioned bicycle wheels stacked on a long axle. Each wheel looked the size of a small city. Although I could see less than half of the docking station, I could see ten spaceships of varying sizes attached to the wheels. On the upper wheel, reserved for SAS ships, a War-class Heavy cruiser and a Defender-class Light cruiser were docked. Hundreds of maintenance personnel swarmed around them like bees around a hive. As we approached the upper wheel, a bay opened and the shuttle slid into the opening. I felt a slight bump as the shuttle gently touched down and engines shut off. It took several minutes for the bay doors to close and the shuttle indicator light over the door to turn green, indicating the bay was pressurized. When it did, the hatch slid open, and I exited down the ramp. I crossed the bay and walked down the stairway to the rail-glider platform. I didn’t have to wait long before a high-speed railcar quietly slid to a stop. I entered the lead compartment and found myself alone, although others had been waiting. When “F22/F26” flashed on the monitor, I signaled for a stop. Upstairs the corridor walls were a sterile steel-gray. I turned left, following the signs leading towards F24, where my orders stated I would find the Peregrine. I heard several individuals quietly talking behind me. Although I was walking slowly, they made no attempt to pass me.

<Words break bones. But sticks and stones not hurt.>

<You have that backwards.> I smiled at Thalia’s tangled version.

<As you assume know their thoughts.>

<Touché. There’ll be enough real problems without me creating new ones.>

* * * *

Lieutenant Commander Phillop stood relaxed in front of the entrance to the Peregrine with two fully armed Red Berets, Wasps. The cruiser wasn’t scheduled to leave for another twenty-four hours; therefore, traffic from planet-side leave was light and would remain so until late this evening or early morning. The ship’s compliment included four hundred navy and fifty airborne commandos, as assigned to every Light cruiser. Because the crew had served on the Peregrine for two or more years, the stop at Eden had resulted in a forty percent turnover. The new crew would include several graduates from Prometheus and Hephaestus.

One of those graduates a Riss-human. Phillop had read a little about the Riss Project and had mixed emotions. Over the past year, he’d heard a lot of opinions, including those from individuals who’d known Zann long before she had become a Vice Admiral. The opinions from those were positive or at least open-minded. The opinions from those who didn’t know her tended to be negative. It had been academic until his briefing from Captain Gebauer this morning. Phillop had known the Captain for two years and had never seen him so upset.

“Phillop, this Riss-human experiment is an abomination, which will sooner or later cause a major disaster. I’ve had the bad luck to have one assigned to the Peregrine.” He paused and took several sips of wine from a crystal goblet. His face was red and twisted in anger. “I’m assigning It to you. I’m sorry, but shuttle maintenance is the least sensitive area. When It reports in, send It to me immediately. I want to put It in its proper place. Maybe I can minimize the disaster it’s certain to cause. I tried to get It assigned to another cruiser, but that damn Zann has too much influence with the powers that be. Dismissed.”

“Yes, Sir.” Phillop saluted. The Captain was still fuming and mumbling as he quietly slipped out of his office.

Afterward, he’d reviewed the new Lieutenant’s record carefully. She would be assigned to him; therefore, if she caused any problems, it would reflect on him and potentially impact his career. Ironically, her record turned out to be impressive. She came from a small mining colony on the planet Corona. At Prometheus, she scored consistently at the top of her classes for the entire four years and had graduated Hephaestus, With Comment, which had earned her a promotion to Lieutenant. Her project councilor rated her stable, highly compatible with her Riss, and eager to learn. Since her record would please any officer she was assigned to, Phillop couldn’t help but wonder what Captain Gebauer had found to negate it. The most likely possibility was that he had been told something “off the record”.

His musing was interrupted when he noticed a young, petite girl hesitate at the entrance to F24. She turned and headed directly towards him. The tattoo on her left cheek was startling. At first he thought it marred what would otherwise be a very attractive face. Her skin was a light olive color, hair a dark brown, pulled back in a long tail, beautiful sea-blue-green eyes slanting ever so slightly, high cheek bones, small pug nose, full lips, and a slightly pointed chin. But in a way, the tattoo gave her an exotic look, which one overlooked because of her waif-like stature. She was small but definitely not a girl-child. She appeared proud, confident, and all navy, as she stopped in front of him, handed over her ID, and saluted.

“Permission to come aboard, Sir.”

Phillop returned the salute and saw the two guards tense, ready for action. It was amazing the effect she appeared to have on people, from his Captain to the Wasps—he noted the navy and army personnel behind her stood further back than normal while waiting their turn. When the guards had involuntarily tensed, he noticed a small twitch of her lip, as if she were trying to avoid smiling. Yes, she’s more than she appears. He hoped the Captain didn’t break her spirit before she had a chance to prove herself.

Her ID badge had her picture and an imbedded chip containing her orders and a host of additional information by which she could be identified: eye scan, DNA, fingerprints, skeleton x-ray, scars, and tattoos. It also contained something he’d never seen before: her Riss’s human name, a picture that approximated her image name, planet of origin, special medical instructions, and an SAS-Riss contract.

Her ID listed her weight at fifty-four kilo and height at one hundred sixty-five centimeters. It gave her birth planet as Corona, which explained her lighter frame. No doubt the four years at the academy had helped improve her physical strength; however, she remained waif-like and almost appeared undernourished.

“Permission granted. Welcome aboard Lieutenant Reese, I’m Lieutenant Commander Phillop. If you’ll wait one moment, I’ll have Senior Chief Nesstor see you to the Captain’s quarters. He’s indicated he wanted to see you as soon as you arrived,” he informed her, while signaling to a Senior Chief Petty Officer who stood just off to the side. He’d asked Nesstor to stay ready for the Lieutenant. Since she would be his immediate superior, he thought it a good idea for them to have a chance to get acquainted.

“Senior Chief, this is Lieutenant Reese. Please escort her to the Captain’s office and wait to show her to her quarters afterward. Good luck, Lieutenant.” He didn’t add you’ll need it, but he did hope the Captain wouldn’t be too harsh, for her sake and his.

Chapter 6

I didn’t like the idea that the Captain wanted to see me—a new Lieutenant—immediately.

<What do you think, Thalia, is Phillop right? Am I going to need luck?>

<He curious. Concerned. Not know why.>

It sometimes helped that Thalia was empathic and could usually sense an individual’s stronger emotions. Thalia’s four years of exposure to humans and my responses made her relatively accurate.

By the hash marks on Nesstor’s sleeve and the ribbons on his chest, the Senior Chief was a twenty-four-year veteran, who’d seen action and been wounded. He had short-cropped gray hair, a rugged face with a square jaw, solid build, which looked to be mostly muscle, and stood a head taller than me.

“Welcome aboard the Peregrine, Lieutenant Reese. If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to Captain Gebauer’s office.”

<He curious. Apprehensive.>

<I’m apprehensive too.>

<Whatever reason. Not good tense when meet him.> I felt myself relaxing.

<Let’s not overdo it. I’ll need to be alert when I meet the Captain.>

“Senior Chief, what’s your specialty?” I asked, as I followed him across the bay and into the maintenance lift. A Light cruiser had two levels. The top, level two, held the bridge and the Captain’s office.

“I’m responsible for shuttle maintenance, Lieutenant.”

“Does the Captain normally see new Lieutenants the minute they arrive, Chief?”

“No, ma’am, I think you’re unique.” Nesstor smiled, acknowledging the double meaning. Too soon we arrived at the Captain’s office. His door was ajar. When I looked in, the Captain glared back.

“Come in and close the door.” His bass voice sounded gravelly. He didn’t appear pleased to see me.

I stepped into the office, closed the door, snapped to attention, and saluted. “Lieutenant Reese reporting as ordered, Sir.” I stayed braced to attention, since the Captain hadn’t given me permission to relax.

“I don’t want any trouble out of you. Do you understand, Reese?”

<Angry. Be careful. Fools dangerous.>

“Yes, Sir.” I actually didn’t understand, but that seemed like the only reasonable answer under the circumstances. On the Peregrine, he was lord and master, judge and jury.

“It says here that you’re a Lieutenant. Rubbish! You just graduated the academy and have no experience. To me, you’re just a Junior Grade Lieutenant with no authority to overrule anyone. Is that clear, Reese?”

<Expects you grovel. My Sister carries high-Riss, who rule Riss. Hold Riss honor.>

“Sir, we don’t think we understand your order. Are you saying that we have no authority over the enlisted personnel?”

Captain Gebauer came out of his chair and pounded his desk for emphasis. “Who’s this ‘we,’ Lieutenant? I’m talking to you. Yes, I mean anyone!”

“The ‘we,’ Captain, is the human Nadya Reese and the high-Riss, Snow glistening on the mountain top. May I ask if you’ve read our contract with the SAS, Sir?”

“I don’t care about your damn contract. I’m your superior. You’ll take orders from me!”

“Sir, we’re required to take only legal orders from you or anyone else. You’ve given me an order that’s illegal, violates my contract, and voids it. Specifically paragraph 7a which states and I quote:

“Nadya Reese, a Riss-human, will serve in the SAS Fleet for a period of not less than twenty-five years as a commissioned officer. If for any reason, she loses the rights and privileges of her fleet rank, this contract becomes void. In that case, she will be sent to Saipha where she will remain until such time as Snow glistening on the mountain can be returned to the Riss nation.

“By taking away my authority over enlisted personnel and Junior Grade Lieutenants, you have, without cause, effectively taken away my rights as a Lieutenant. We will notify the appropriate authorities that you’ve voided our contract and that we wish transportation to Saipha,” I said, then turned, preparing to leave.

“Wait!” Gebauer shouted. “Is this an excuse to get rid of that cursed alien?”

“No, Sir. Thalia will be my companion for life, whether I serve in the SAS Fleet or I’m confined to Saipha. The Riss are a magnificent race. They don’t kill other Riss, not once in the last thousand years. Furthermore, I can walk among the Riss without one Riss shunning me or treating me like a piranha. Among humans, I’m lucky when I find one person who treats me like a human. I would be at peace among the Riss. They’re a gentle civilized race.” When I finished, I realized that while I was looking forward to a life in fleet, I would be content on Saipha.

< Proud call you Sister. Make high-Riss proud.>

The Captain stared at me, his face seething with emotion. After an eternity, he spoke.

“Lieutenant, at ease. You’re right. I may have over-reacted. I retract my comment about your authority.” Gebauer re-seated himself. He remained quiet for several minutes, while his fingers tapped his desk. He didn’t look sorry. His face remained red and angry.

<Illegal order threatens career.>

“You’re a Lieutenant with the same authority as any other Lieutenant; however, I still believe you’re an inexperienced JG who must be rotated through each section and your performance evaluated. That means if you give a JG or anyone else an order, you damn well better be right. Is that understood?” Gebauer spoke in a more normal voice, although it rose towards the end.

“Yes, Sir,” I replied. I understood the Captain disliked me and would be looking for an opportunity to get rid of me.

“Furthermore, I’m ordering you to stop including that alien when you talk about yourself. It’s ‘I’ not ‘we.’ Does that violate your damn contract?” he hissed.

“No, Sir. Although the SAS has made it clear that I’ve a Riss companion.” I pointed to my tattoo. “There is no way I can pretend she doesn’t exist, Sir.”

“Fine. For this rotation you’ll be responsible for shuttle maintenance, reporting to Lieutenant Commander Phillop. Senior Chief Nesstor’s your crew chief. In addition, Colonel Quentin, the Wasp Commander, is guarding two Riss-humans who are being returned to Saipha—like you’ll no doubt be, someday soon.”

<Not subtle.>

< Forewarned. Forearmed.>

“You’ll be his interface with them, until we reach Saipha. If you’ve no questions, you’re dismissed,” Gebauer said and turned his attention to his terminal.

I saluted, turned, and headed for the office door. I had lots of questions, but Captain Gebauer didn’t appear in the mood to answer them. He wanted me gone from his office, ship, and the navy.

Chapter 7

Nesstor stood at ease just outside of the Captain’s office. It wouldn’t do for a Senior Chief to be slouching against the corridor wall should someone come by on the way to the bridge. Besides, he didn’t believe this interview would last very long. The Captain was a man of few words. He had some message for the Lieutenant, and it would be short and sweet—or sour as the case may be.

He didn’t know what to think about the new Lieutenant. She looked young enough to be his granddaughter, but he had to admit she carried her waif-like self well. Her hair, tied back in a tail, added to the youthful appearance. The tattoo added an exotic look to her face, which would mature well over time. This meeting with the Captain may tell him a lot about her. The “I want to see this woman as soon as she arrives” didn’t bode well for her. The Captain was very traditional. A Riss-human wouldn’t fit nicely into his world. He didn’t know what to think about the Riss parasite or a human willing to host it. He certainly wouldn’t have volunteered. Of course, everyone in the service learned you didn’t volunteer for anything—you got volunteered. Nesstor tended to ignore rumors and other people’s opinions, reserving judgment for himself. Actions determined a person’s mettle, not words. He’d know soon enough. Phillop had already informed him that she’d be assigned to supervise shuttle maintenance; therefore, she’d be his immediate superior.

The Captain’s shouting interrupted his musing. The temptation to move closer to the door was almost overwhelming but unnecessary. The Captain’s words were clear enough. He didn’t hear the young Lieutenant’s reply, but he did hear the Captain’s response. Few officers scared Nesstor any more. Most gave him the respect his twenty-four year’s experience and rank warranted; however, he wouldn’t have liked to be in the Lieutenant’s shoes right now. The room became silent again. Nesstor would have bet Reese and her Riss had turned to ash. Then he heard “Wait!” and mumbling that sounded suspiciously like the Captain had backed down. The room went quiet again. Several minutes later the door opened, and she exited the room. She looked concerned but not flustered. As she closed the door behind her, he could see it was the Captain who looked flustered.

* * * *

I exited the Captain’s office in turmoil. This assignment would be difficult enough with crewmembers who hated, feared, or distrusted me, without having the Captain among them.

<Be honest, open, helpful, high-Riss. Prove them wrong. One person, one day at time.>

<high-Riss?> I questioned, unsure what Thalia meant.

<Yes, little one. high-Riss proud. Make no apologies who they are.>

Just then, Nesstor broke into my thoughts.

“How did it go, Lieutenant?” he asked as we walked back down the passageway towards the lift.

“Depends. How do you feel about working for a Riss-human, Senior Chief?”

“I think it’ll be interesting, ma’am. Not many survive a shouting confrontation with the old man. Not that I heard anything, you understand.”

“If you didn’t hear anything, I assume the personnel on the bridge didn’t either?” I nodded towards the bridge, which was less then ten meters from the Captain’s office.

“It’s very noisy on the bridge, ma’am,” Nesstor said, with a straight face. I knew everyone had heard the Captain shouting, although no one would admit it. Everyone would, however, have an opinion about what happened.

“That’s as it should be, Senior Chief. I’d like you to put together a training plan for Thalia and me. I couldn’t hope to supervise a department if she and I didn’t understand what you and your crews do.” I smiled at the chief, who momentarily looked confused. I’d told the Captain I wouldn’t pretend I was anything but what I was—a Riss-human. The more I thought about it, the way to make it normal was by drawing attention to it. I obviously couldn’t hide it.

“Thalia’s my Riss companion, Chief. I thought it best we got that out in the open.”

“Thank you, ma’am. I’ll draw up a list of things you’ll need to know. Then we can see about getting you checked out.”

<Found potential friend.>

<At least he doesn’t appear afraid of us.>

The Senior Chief showed me to my quarters and then to Colonel Quentin’s office. After a short wait, a corporal informed me the colonel would see me.

I came to a halt in front of his standard-issue steel desk, braced to attention, and saluted. Saluting wasn’t required aboard ship, except in someone’s office.

“Sir, I’m Lieutenant Nadya Reese. Captain Gebauer appointed me as your liaison with the Riss-humans.”

“At ease, Lieutenant. I had an interesting talk with Vice Admiral Zann last week, concerning the Riss-humans being returned to Saipha. I don’t claim to understand it all and I’m grateful to have you here to help.”

“I’ll do what I can, Sir. Can you direct me to where they’re being held?”

“I’ll have Corporal Dalick take you to them. They’re being kept under guard. After you’ve had a chance to meet with them, I’d like you to bring me up to date on their condition and needs.” Quentin was studying me as he spoke. He nodded and signaled to the corporal. “Dalick, take Lieutenant Reese to see our two Riss-human guests.”

<He confused. Surprised.>

<Because they’re being returned and I’m not?>

<Logical assumption.>

Dalick led me through several passageways to a door guarded by two armed Wasps, looking as nervous as I’d felt with the Captain. They snapped to attention as I approached.

“This is Lieutenant Reese. She’s the prisoner’s liaison with the Colonel and to be allowed full access to the Riss-humans,” Dalick said to the ranking guard.

“Sergeant, unlock the door. I’d like to talk to Aldric and Egon.” I felt sorry for Egon but not Aldric. When I entered the room, I was surprised to find both lying on their bunks fully dressed.

The exchange of SV amongst the Riss still made me slightly dizzy. I was still getting used to their manner of communication and couldn’t follow a conversation unless they slowed it down to baby talk.

<Riss in control. Comfortable.>

Thalia went on to explain that the Riss now controlled Aldric and Egon’s mental and physical functions. The humans were effectively comatose. The Riss would maintain control until they returned to Saipha and their Sisters.

“Riss-sisters, if you need anything, ask for me. I’m here to make sure you’re comfortable and left in peace.” I knew they’d understand without the SV.

Thalia translated their reply for me. <Thank you. Fine for now. Cabin peaceful. Use time contemplate academy math.>

I returned to my room after a quick stop at Quentin’s office, changed into work-blues, and made my way back to the shuttle bay, where I found Phillop.

“Sir, Lieutenant Reese reporting for duty. What would you like me to do?”

“Let me give you the grand tour of your new responsibilities, Reese.”

We spent the next two hours walking through the eight shuttle bays. Bay 21 and 22 housed the three shuttles used to visit planet-side; Bays 23 through 27 contained the Peregrine’s twenty Strike fighters; and Bay 28 provided a backup in case one of the bays required repairs. The maintenance crew consisted of sixty engine and electrical-repair seamen, six bay Chiefs, Senior Chief Nesstor, and now me. Phillop had responsibility for shuttle maintenance, engine and shuttle parts, and cargo storage.

“I understand you asked the Senior Chief to setup a training program for you to learn how to repair our shuttles and fighters,” Phillop said, as we finished the tour. I wasn’t sure whether he was smiling at something funny or questioning my sanity.

<He amused.>

“Yes, Sir. I don’t know how I can supervise people if I don’t understand what they do. Besides, I’m naturally curious about almost everything.”

“Just so long as you don’t forget you’re an officer and here to supervise, not to do the actual work. Good luck, Reese,” Phillop said as he headed for his office.

I found Nesstor in Bay 24 with three other mechanics. They stood discussing a problem with one of the Strike fighters. Nesstor introduced me to the three mechanics. The problem seemed to be that the propulsion unit was overheating. I stood and watched for the next two hours, while they ran a number of tests. They finally determined that one of the heat-sensing solenoids had malfunctioned. It took an hour to replace it.

I went to bed content. I had gotten to watch the crew at work, learned something about how the propulsion system worked, saw it repaired, and I met a few people who didn’t hate me. Overall, it had been a good day.

<One day, one person at a time.>

I fell asleep, feeling Thalia’s smile.

Chapter 8

I woke early the next morning and headed for the Wasp’s workout area. The reaction was mixed. Little wonder, I massed about half of the smallest man or woman in the room.

Picking out a quiet corner, I began my ritual of stretches and forms. At the academy, navy cadets were required to take two years of self-defense training. The army officers were required four years of combat training. Only a few studied Si’jin because of the difficulty in finding an instructor. When one was available, they were selective whom they taught. I loved the art and had been lucky to find Masters Talman and Wei.

I received lots of stares and a few remarks loud enough to be heard, but in general they left me alone. I suspect they were amused to find a navy woman in their workout area. After an hour, I showered, dressed, and found the dining room. There I was either ignored or whispered about. I ate alone.

<This is just like the academy.>

<One person...Little one.>

<Yes, oh wise one.>

* * * *

I reveled in my new responsibilities. I’d never been so happy in my life. People still shunned me in the hallways, workout area, mess hall, and on the job. With Thalia’s help, I’d reconciled myself to their fear or hate or disgust, or…

<Not like you, their problem. Not let them give you their problems.>

Thalia was right. There was nothing I could do about their attitudes, except to hope that they’d come to see Thalia and me as comrades. First thing in the morning, I performed my Si’jin exercises. That helped to relax and invigorate me. I practiced them slowly, concentrating on balance and muscle control. I’d noticed that Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk taught Si’jin to a small class of Wasps having four to seven knots; he had nine. Valk ignored me for the first week. I would have loved to join the class but would have to be invited. I hoped he’d eventually talk to me if I continued to exercise in the army area.

“I smell a seaman. She’s fouling the air and I can’t breathe,” a man said. He was average in height, weight, and looks. The sneer didn’t help his looks. I didn’t want any trouble. The Captain would love that, even though I didn’t start it.

“I’ll leave,” I said, and began walking towards my bag.

“Not so fast. You need a reminder why you should stay with your own scum.” He continued to walk towards me.

“Ya, Owin. Maybe she’s here to try out some real men,” another man shouted. I could see he was sneaking looks at Valk, who stood silent. Then Owin was behind me as I bent to pick up my bag.

<Watch out.>

As I started to turn, pain shot through my kidneys. As I straightened up from pain, a second punch landed.

Fighting the pain, I spun around. My arm struck his as he tried for a third punch, knocking him off balance. I let the momentum carry me a couple of steps away and continued walking toward the door.

“Hey, Owin, I’d be embarrassed. Maybe she should walk you to the door,” someone said. I turned around. This wasn’t good. Owin’s face turned red. I knew I couldn’t avoid the fight that was certain to come. He lunged at me with arms slightly apart. I couldn’t run; he stood too close; and I couldn’t just stand there. He weighed more than me, and his weight would drive me to the floor. Anyway, that wasn’t the Si’jin way. As he lunged, I moved into him, driving my shoulder into his chest, knee into his groin, stomped down on his foot, locked my foot behind his leg, and pushed. As he fell, I followed him to the floor and drove my knee into his solar plexus. He lay there, fighting to catch his breath and moaning. I saw two big men with fight-scarred faces approaching.

“Bitch. We’re going to rip that dirt off your face and your nose with it,” the biggest and meanest looking one said. He and his buddy were smiling. I knew they’d enjoy every minute of it. I stood still, all emotions gone. No hate, fear, or anticipation.

<Guess want to play.>

I felt her amusement as the adrenaline flowed through my body and everything around me slowed. Thalia and I waited.

“Stand down, Blackstone. Now,” Valk said quietly, and the room turned deadly silent. Blackstone and his friend stopped like they’d walked into a stone wall. “You’re an embarrassment to the Wasps. You need help to take one waif of a woman, and since when do you want to cripple someone who’s done nothing to you?”

He walked over to me. I still didn’t move. “You fight like you’ve had Si’jin training. Your forms are a hodge-podge of techniques, although I’ll admit you execute them well. Who taught you?”

He watched me closely. I knew Si’jin masters jealously guarded their art. They wanted to ensure individuals unqualified to teach didn’t dilute it, which meant anyone not promoted by a Si’jin master. I knew he wanted names—my teacher’s. I said nothing. He stood quietly and stared. We were both in fighting mode. He could kill me if he wished, but I promised he’d know he had been in a fight.

Valk tried again. “You graduated from Prometheus. Talman taught you?”

Still I said nothing. Masters seldom taught Si’jin to navy personnel. He could be in trouble if I admitted it.

“You also attended Hephaestus. Master Wei? You can tell me, Lieutenant Reese. No master would even raise his or her voice to Master Wei.” He gave a small snort. He hadn’t only noticed me, but even knew my name and rank, and that I’d been to SAS’s fast-track college.

“I had the good fortune to have Master Talman as a teacher, while I was at Prometheus and Master Wei at Hephaestus.” I felt better now I knew my teachers weren’t in trouble over me.

“I’ll see you in class when duty permits. Wear your belt and come prepared to give us a demonstration of Wei’s handiwork.” He smiled and walked back to his group.

<Valk. You. That be good party.>

<I live for the day something doesn’t amuse you.>

* * * *

After a several weeks, most of my mechanics were inviting me over to discuss the problems they were working on and quizzing me. Nesstor had been a little skeptical at first, but the crews seemed to like my unorthodox style of supervision.

I found the Striker fighters particularly interesting. They appeared to be multiple weapon systems strapped on a propulsion device with a seat each for the two lunatics who flew them. Proving my theory, the Striker pilots were a wild bunch, who were forever partying and raising havoc. I thought they were crazy. My crew thought they were a pain in the ass.

I’d just finished inspecting one of the Striker bays when a tall, attractive man came running over to me.

“Are you the idiot in charge of Striker maintenance?” he ranted, continuing before I could answer. “This is the third time this month my Striker failed due to your incompetence. If it weren’t against regulations, I’d kick your ass right here and now. How about you put on the gloves with me if you think you and your Riss thingie are such hot shit?”

<Barks loud.>

<Probably feels he gets more attention that way.>

“Lieutenant…” I questioned.

“Senior Striker pilot Lieutenant McInnis.”

“Chief, are you familiar with Lieutenant McInnis’s Striker and the problem he’s been having?”

“Yes, ma’am. The weapon mounts on his Striker keep breaking. When they do, it sets up turbulence affecting the fighter’s performance. Our test shows normal tolerances after we fix the mounts but they continue to break.”

“Has anyone else had this problem?” I queried, now interested in the mystery.

“No, this is the only Striker with this problem,” Nesstor said.

He stepped back as McInnis moved closer to him and began ranting again. “It doesn’t damn well matter. You’re a pathetic excuse for a maintenance Chief. If you can’t fix Strikers, you should be replaced along with little miss Riss!”

“Lieutenant McInnis, I’ll see to it that we resolve the mystery surrounding your weapon mounts. Since you’ve insulted my Chief, without cause I may add, I accept your offer to put on the gloves with you; however, I’ll need a few days to acquaint myself with ‘putting on gloves,’” I replied, staying face to face with him—well, face to chest.

McInnis’s mouth opened, then closed, then opened again, but nothing came out for several seconds. Meanwhile, Nesstor shook his head “No” and waved his hands for me to stop.

McInnis finally managed to get it out. “You idiot. I mean boxing. Fighting in a ring with a referee. I’d love to kick your skinny ass, but it wouldn’t be right.”

“Good. Five days from now, which should be plenty of time to get acquainted with your form of fighting. Where’s this ring located, so I can get my skinny ass there?” I had to smile at the Lieutenant’s frustrated look.

“You’re crazy. Bay 28. 1900 hours,” McInnis said before turning and stalking off while muttering, “Crazy bitch, a good punch in the face’ll serve her right.”

“Ma’am, you can’t fight Lieutenant McInnis. You don’t know how to box, and I hear he’s good at the sport. Anyway, he insults me and the mechanics all the time.”

<Same with Captain Gebauer. Let abuse you, becomes normal.>

<A valid point, oh wise one. We’ll see if McInnis’s bite is as big as his bark.>

“Chief, you and your mechanics are my responsibility. If you or they need abusing, it’s my duty to do it, no one else. Now, you’re going to find someone to teach me boxing.”

* * * *

I discovered that the Chief’s network extended throughout the entire ship, which surprised me. Navy and army personal didn’t socialize. They each had their own facilities and tended to use them exclusively. Nesstor knew Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk, and he knew a Sergeant Ladner in supply, who used to teach boxing. The next day I found myself with a coach and equipment, compliments of the Wasps.

I thought boxing a stupid way to fight. To begin with, the gloves were so padded it was difficult, if not impossible, to hurt anyone in the nine minutes allowed. Then, every time you got too close, the referee broke it up. You couldn’t use your feet, elbows, or head like real self-defense, and you had to stop every three minutes to rest, when you weren’t tired. Worse, no one usually won by the end of the three rounds, but each fighter claimed victory.

The first two days I practiced, I felt like one of Ladner’s punching bags. While trying to analyze the fighting style, I was repeatedly punched in the face and stomach. Since most punches were jabs, the style wasn’t well suited to Si’jin techniques, which worked best when your opponent threw all his weight into the strike. Bobbing and weaving was effective if I abandoned the flat-footed Si’jin stances and moved on the balls of my feet. With only a little help from Thalia, I could avoid most punches.

During the day my crew checked every millimeter of McInnis’s Striker. When they tried to examine the flight computer’s record, they found it had been erased. Nesstor and I programmed a software patch that copied the flight data to a separate storage area, which couldn’t be deleted from the pilot’s panel. Our subsequent review of the data after McInnis managed to break another strut revealed the problem. He’d exceeded the Striker’s stress specifications. The next day we’d modified the struts and made plans to replace them on all the Strikers.

On the fifth day at 1900 hours, every Striker pilot, shuttle-mechanic, and anyone who’d heard of the pending fight crowded into Bay 28.

McInnis entered the ring with black boxing shorts, almost down to his knees, black gym shoes, and puffy black boxing gloves. I had to admire his lean body, tight abdominal muscles, and the graceful way he danced on the balls of his feet. He walked over to me and grinned.

“You don’t have to do this. I’ll accept your apology instead,” he announced loud enough for everyone to hear. I wore yellow shorts and a thin halter, yellow gym shoes, and puffy yellow boxing gloves, complements of Sergeant Ladner. “Anyway, I can’t hit a lady in the chest.”

“Lieutenant McInnis, I understand I’m not allowed to hit you below the top of your shorts in this silly sport, but I give you permission to hit me anywhere you can. Before we start, however, I’d like to say that we found the problem with your weapon system struts. If you hadn’t erased your fight data after each flight and had cooperated with the maintenance crew, we’d have found it sooner. Based on the flight data we captured, you’re one superb pilot—if somewhat crazy. Should you continue to survive your wild flights, I believe your struts—now modified—will also. One last comment. If you’d insulted only me, I’d have thought it childish but let it go; however, you insulted my crew chief and his crew. That right is mine alone; therefore, I accept your offer to kick my skinny ass all over this ring.” That last comment got more than a few hoots from the crowd. I returned to my corner and refused a mouth guard.

<I help.>

<No. That would be cheating.>

Just then the bell rang. McInnis came out with a determined look on his face. There were too many people watching for him to do anything else. I met him in the middle of the ring. He landed two jabs to my face and a right that snapped my head back. I stumbled backward. He followed, jabbing as he went. Another right hand drove me into the ropes. In my fogged brain, I knew a knockout punch would follow, when I came bouncing of the ropes. I hocked my arm around the rope and spun away. I felt the wind as his punch missed by millimeters. He wasn’t long in recovering and followed me around the ring, scoring over half of his punches. I was bleeding from my nose, and my eye was swollen. The bell mercifully rang, while I was still able to stand. I staggered back to my corner, when I figured out which was mine.

“I’m going to throw in your towel,” Ladner said, picking up a white towel.

“Don’t. I need it,” I said, grabbing it and wiping my face. It came away with blood.

“Throwing in your towel means you concede the fight.”

“Well, I don’t.”

<You need help.>

I could feel the swelling and pain begin to ease. <That would be cheating.>

<It cheating he use his four years experience?>

<No.>

<It cheating Wasps use training?>

<No.>

<You loose, Crew abused more. You high-Riss.>

Thalia knew she had me. <All right. You win.>

The adrenaline flooded my system, my head cleared, and the pain stopped. I stood—devoid of emotions—and waited. McInnis danced across the ring, smiling. He swung with a hard right. It missed as I slid sideways and punched to his abdomen, kidney, and head, then ducked as he threw a wild left-handed roundhouse. We moved to the center of the ring. He threw jab after jab, which missed. His face became red and twisted, his punches grew harder and wilder. I kept up a barrage of punches to the belly and kidneys. The bell rang and I walked back to my corner. You could have heard someone whisper in the silence which had descended on the Bay.

<Knock out or not win.>

<Don’t say it. My crews will still get grief, maybe more if I don’t.>

<Yes.>

I thought of Master Wei. Opponent have long weapon move in close; short weapon stay back. McInnis had long arms. The bell rang. I walked to the middle to meet him. He threw a hard left, then a right, and I moved in. Punch to the gut, chin, over and over again. He tried to wrap his arms around me, but I twisted away and kept pounding his abdomen. As he staggered back to get away, I got three hard punches to his face. He hit the ropes and bounced forward. My next punch had so much momentum that I left the ground. He hit the ropes again and collapsed. The referee stood there looking down at McInnis—he’d forgotten to count. I walked back to my corner and exited the ring.

“You’ve made your crew, including me and several Wasps, very happy. We won a couple thousand credits from Striker pilots,” Ladner whispered. I barely heard, as my mind was elsewhere.

<That felt wrong. I thought the Riss were against killing, except to save their lives.>

<Good not kill him.>

Thalia’s laugh echoed through me like chimes in the wind.

* * * *

The next several days went by quickly. The boxing match had cemented my position with the crews. They respected the fact I’d stood up for them. A few remained nervous around me, although they tried to hide it. I didn’t doubt a few still hated me and wished me harm. The main change came in my early morning workouts. Instead of being ignored as usual, I received nods, thumbs up signs, and few even offered a “mor’n, ma’am.”

<McInnis make you many friends.>

<Because they won a lot of money on the fight.>

<Wasps only make friends they respect. Earn take McInnis for crew.>

* * * *

I’d just finished being briefed on the status of each shuttle and Striker, then Colonel Quentin approached. Two armed Wasps, dressed in their Red Berets, accompanied him. They didn’t look happy.

“Lieutenant Reese, Captain Gebauer directed me to have you placed under arrest,” Quentin said formally but quietly so that no one else could hear.

<Be calm, little one. You did nothing wrong.> My tension eased.

<Thank you, Thalia. You’re right.>

“Colonel Quentin, may I ask what the charges are?”

“The Captain didn’t tell me. He only said that I was to place you under arrest and bring you to his office. You don’t know?”

“Colonel, I know the Captain would like me discredited and off his ship. I know Thalia didn’t do anything illegal, because she was with me the entire time. She knows I didn’t do anything illegal, because she was with me the entire time.” I shook my head. I was growing tired of fools and the Captain. “Since only the Captain knows my secret crime, perhaps you should take me to him.”

“You don’t seem concerned, Reese,” Quentin said as he pointed towards the lift.

“Just curious, to see how desperate the Captain is to get rid of me.”

Quentin didn’t seem to hate me and didn’t report to the Captain. I decided I had nothing to loose.

“Colonel, I’m entitled to representation. I’d appreciate it if you would stay with me to witness the charges, and defend me, if you feel I’m innocent.”

Chapter 9

The quiet hum of the air filtration system sounded like the roar of an approaching tornado against the silence pervading the Puff Adder conference room. Tension vibrated in the air like angry bees, making it seem warm in spite of the fresh cool air flowing into the room.

“Very disappointing—” Rares Ja’Oyrat’s soft voice shattered the silence like a crystal glass exploding against the conference room bulkhead.

“Who are you to—” Anton Ja’Tuva, Captain of the Puff Adder, interrupted with the arrogance of one used to command, but stopped abruptly when Rares raised his hand. Although he didn’t fit either stereotype, Rares was the Captain of the merchant ship Compton, and a master trader. He was twenty kilos overweight, short, balding, and his round-chubby face had permanent laugh lines. At the moment he wasn’t smiling, and his space-cold eyes weren’t laughing.

“I’m merely a messenger, Anton,” Rares said with a slight smile, which acknowledged the distinction without repudiating the rebuke. “It’s the Elders of Clan Baptiste who are very disappointed. They’ve invested over two hundred million credits arming and outfitting the Puff Adder and the Sidewinder. Are they wrong to expect a reasonable return on their investment?” When Anton failed to reply, he continued. “Last year my trading activities produced a fifteen million profit. During the same period, your raiding activities returned only ten. Perhaps the Elders would be better served building merchant ships.”

“We had a run of bad luck,” Lucien Ja’Kazak, Captain of the Sidewinder, interjected.

“I don’t believe the Elders consider destroying a merchant ship worth over fifty million credits in prize money bad luck.” Rares held Lucien’s stare.

“They were armed and fired on us,” Lucien responded, although his response lacked conviction. He was first to break eye contact.

“Rares has a point, Lucien,” Anton acknowledged, slamming his hand against the table. “The Sidewinder has reinforced armor-plating and twenty times the weapon power. You could have easily disabled the merchant with your thirty- or fifty-centimeter lasers. You didn’t have to use missiles!”

“The Elders’ point exactly. If temper or fear prevail over the good of the clan—” Rares stopped as Lyna Ja’Kazak came out of her chair, knife in hand, eyes blazing with rage. Lyna served as Lucien’s second-in-command and was the only woman officer on any raider-class ship. She was quick to temper and as deadly as the snake her ship had been named for. Only Lucien’s hand on her arm stopped her forward momentum.

“You no longer wish clan protection, Lyna?” Rares asked with his first real smile. Everyone at the table knew a person declared “without clan protection” lost their clan name, was banned from the clan’s home planet, and placed under a “fatwa” calling for his or her death. Attacking a messenger of the Elders certainly warranted such a declaration. Lucien pulled Lyna down into her seat, before she could move or respond.

“We accept that we may have overreacted to the merchant firing on us, but no one on the Sidewinder is a coward.” Lucien’s voice quivered; his face flushed with anger. Like Lyna a moment before, he looked close to losing control.

“Good enough. I’ve done my duty and delivered the Elders’ harsh message. Now I’ll deliver their succor. Let me introduce my granddaughter, Angela Ja’Oyrat, who’s one of the Elders’ agents.” Rares paused to acknowledge her before continuing. “At her request, we visited several planets in the Tragos sector. I think you’ll find her observations interesting.”

All eyes turned towards Angela. She was a beautiful young woman with shoulder-length golden hair framing a delicate face, long, shapely legs, and an hourglass figure. She rose, intentionally slow and walked over to the conference room’s sidebar, where she refilled her glass. Like the shifting displays of a spectacular sunset, she seemed to morph from Rare’s demure granddaughter to high-paid model, to a professional companion, and finally to a mousy-looking woman. Heads shook in disbelief as she reseated herself. It had been a masterful performance.

“Will a hundred million credits be enough to start?” Angela asked, while her sky-blue eyes studied her long thin fingers and beautifully-manicured fingernails.

“What do we have to do for one hundred million credits?” Anton and Lucien asked simultaneously. Everyone was now staring at Angela. She looked up, acknowledging her audience. It was obvious from her sparkling eyes, the color in her cheeks, and the wicked little smile, she reveled in intrigue and its challenges.

“The miners on Corona have almost a year’s supply of Xundexium stockpiled. The merchant ship Star Dancer is scheduled to pickup the Xundexium in exactly twenty-five clan-days from today—fifteen E-days.” Angela checked a small handheld device using a little wand. “If you arrived on time, you could acquire the Xundexium and the Star Dancer. The Xundexium is worth at least ten million credits and the Star Dancer another sixty-five.”

“No escort?” Anton’s eyes narrowed while he fiddled with his unruly beard. Everyone knew Xundexium was used to produce the battle metal shielding used in spaceship hulls; therefore, big ugly warships guarded shipments.

“It’s kind-of-a-secret that their escort, the Gyrfalcon, won’t arrive until the Star Dancer is scheduled to depart for Eden three days later. The Captain of the Gyrfalcon doesn’t think he should have to wait while the merchant does business,” Angela said with a shrug.

“Kind-of-a-secret?” Lyna Ja’Kazak asked with a frown on her hawk-like face.

“Since I  know it, how much of a secret can it be?” Angela said with raised eyebrows, which produced general laughter and eased the tension.

“And the other twenty-five million?” Anton asked, leaning forward in his chair.

“Saipha,” Angela replied, to everyone’s shock. Ironically, Anton’s grandfather had raided Saipha some fifty years ago, hoping to steal a rare Gorillai pelt. Not only had the raid turned into a disaster, but Saipha’s defenses had been substantially improved as a result.

“I’d rather try to capture the Gyrfalcon,” Anton blurted and received general nods of agreement. “Since the Riss Nation accord, Saipha has better than average defenses and little worth the risk. But now that you’ve brought it up, tell us what you discovered worth twenty-five million, and how we’re going to acquire it.”

“The trouble with having these well-armed raiding ships is that you always think in terms of force,” Angela said with a sad smile, intended for rather slow children. “The raid on Saipha will require a little more subtlety and a little less brute force. Two Riss-humans are being returned to Saipha forty-five E-days from today. The going price for a dead Riss-human is around five million; however, the price for a live Riss-human may be as high as twenty-five.” Angela stopped to sip her wine.

“Angela is being conservative. A live Riss-human in good condition may be worth as much as fifty million if we can get the United Free Nations—UFN—and the Johaba People’s Union—JPU—to bid against each other,” Rares said.

“How are they arriving?”

“They’re being delivered on the Peregrine, a Defender class Light cruiser. The navy will deliver the two Riss-humans to the army garrison at Lanfal.” Angela consulted her handheld. “If you had a team on planet before they arrived, it should be an easy matter to ambush the six-to-eight-man detail on their way to the Riss enclave in the Superstition Mountains.”

“I’ll drop off your team and return later to pick them up. Of course if they get in trouble, I won’t be able to help them.” Rares said. A not-too-subtle reminder he was a merchant—and spy—not a raider.

“Dorin, tomorrow you’ll get with Sergeant Rynom and put together a team to go with Captain Rares to Saipha. Captain Lucien and I’ll plan our visit to Corona.” Anton raised his glass. “To Clan Baptiste and their agent. May we continue to prosper and multiply.”

“To Clan Baptiste,” six voices responded with glasses raised in salute.

Chapter 10

No one spoke on the way to the Captain’s office. I felt drained. I loved Thalia and didn’t regret joining with her. The tattoo caused the problems. It reminded people I was different and branded me an alien.

<I can remove it, little one.>

<You can?>

I couldn’t contain a laugh, which produced strange looks from my escort. The SAS’s perfect solution obviously wasn’t quite so perfect.

<How, Thalia?>

<Only ink embed couple layers skin. Dissolve inked layers. Grow new cells.>

<How long would it take?>

<Couple days.>

<Can you put it back?>

<Yes. One day.>

I laughed and received more strange looks. When we arrived at Captain Gebauer’s office, I found the Captain, Commander Riddler, his XO, Lieutenant McInnis, and Corporal Owin. Without comment the Captain began.

“Lieutenant Reese, I formally charge you with provoking a fight with a senior officer, fighting with intent to kill, and gambling,” Captain Gebauer stated with a smile of satisfaction. “How do you plead?”

<Get recorded, little one. Not trust anyone here.>

“Before I answer, I’m requesting that the charges and subsequent testimony be recorded and under oath,” I stated quietly.

“I’ll decide how to conduct this proceeding, Lieutenant!” Gebauer shouted.

I looked at Riddler and then back at Quentin.

“Why Lieutenant Reese?” Riddler asked.

“It protects me and also everyone involved. Recording the testimony prevents me and others from claiming we didn’t say or didn’t mean some part of our testimony. It also precludes any possible confusion as to what I or they said,” I replied. “The fact that lying under oath is a felony subject to prison time should encourage the truth. Besides, if I’m guilty, the Captain should want this proceeding recorded to prove he was right—that Riss-humans are an abomination.”

“Lieutenant, I’ve never said any such thing. You’re being insubordinate,” Gebauer shouted.

“You’ve two Riss-humans under arrest, although neither the Riss nor the Riss-humans have been charged with a crime, and you told me I would be joining them in the near future. What other conclusion can I draw? If you wish, Sir, I would be glad to have this issue resolved by an SAS inquiry,” I said and continued before he could reply. “It’s my right to have it recorded. More importantly, under the SAS treaty with the high-Riss, it’s demanded.”

“It’s within her rights under fleet’s articles, and her Riss’s right under SAS treaty. I see no reason the witnesses against her shouldn’t be willing to testify under oath,” Riddler said.

“Colonel Quentin, Lieutenant Reese is to be confined to her quarters. The court martial will be held at 0900 hours tomorrow. It’ll be recorded and I’ll preside,” Gebauer shouted and turned away.

* * * *

Back in my room, I sat thinking about the coming court martial.

<What do you think, Thalia?>

< Captain puppet on strings of prejudice.>

Thalia sent a picture of a wooden puppet dressed in navy whites, dangling from strings, and being manipulated by a hooded figure. It made me laugh, easing my tension.

<Thanks, Thalia. I guess we should get use to this. Put me to sleep, I don’t want to think about this until tomorrow.>

* * * *

“I, Captain Karl Gebauer, declare this court martial in session. Lieutenant Nadya Reese, a Riss-human, is accused of three counts of misconduct. Count one: provoking a fight with a senior officer. Count two: fighting with the intention of killing him. Count three: gambling on the outcome of the fight she provoked. Commander Riddler is the designated prosecutor. Colonel Quentin has agreed to represent Lieutenant Reese. Before we start, does the accused have anything to say? I’m willing to be lenient if you’ll admit your guilt.”

I stood and looked around the room. There was standing room only. I sat in disgust.

<Want embarrass you in front of crew.>

Riddler proceeded to call McInnis to the stand and administered the oath. McInnis claimed I’d started the confrontation and judging from the way I’d attacked him, it had been my intention to kill him. On redirect, Quentin stood and smiled.

“Lieutenant McInnis, was the boxing match refereed?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Were you and Lieutenant Reese wearing four hundred fifty-gram-weight gloves for the fight?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Did you agree to three, three-minute rounds?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Then you’re claiming that Captain Gebauer’s directive C21 permits fights that could result in death?”

“N-no, Sir.”

“Then how can you claim Lieutenant Reese intended to kill you?”

“I guess she couldn’t have.” McInnis shifted in the chair.

“Did you consent to the match with Lieutenant Reese?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Doesn’t Captain Gebauer’s directive C21 clearly authorize supervised boxing matches to settle disputes?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Under those conditions I don’t believe it matters who started the argument; however, for the record are you willing to swear under oath that Lieutenant Reese started the confrontation? Before you answer, I would warn you there were several creditable witnesses to the confrontation, and lying under oath is punishable with confinement and lost of rank.”

“W-well, maybe I said some things first that I shouldn’t have,” McInnis stammered.

“Captain, I move to have charges one and two dismissed. Lieutenant McInnis has admitted he started the confrontation. Besides, your directive was designed to settle argument without anyone being seriously injured, much less killed,” Quentin concluded, shaking his head. “Lieutenant McInnis’s charges are the most ridiculous charges I’ve heard in my twenty-two year career.” Quentin returned to his seat. Gebauer looked like he wanted to kill someone.

“Charges one and two are dismissed. Lieutenant McInnis is fined one thousand credits for wasting this court’s time.” Gebauer glared at McInnis, as he sat back down.

<Captain mad McInnis make look foolish. Knew charges invented. Want cause trouble.>

“Commander Riddler, what about the gambling charges?” Gebauer asked.

“If Corporal Owin is willing to perjure himself, we could proceed. We searched Lieutenant Reese’s quarters and checked her ship’s account. We didn’t find the thousand credits that Corporal Owin claimed he paid her for the wager on the fight. She does have over a thousand credits in her account—”

“It appears Corporal Owin wasn’t lying,” Gebauer said, pointing a finger at me.

“No. We traced the money in her account. She’s probably the most frugal person on this ship. The money has been deposited from her pay over the past five years. She spends almost nothing on herself. In addition, Corporal Owin has never had a thousand credits in his account. Lastly, if we’re going to prosecute everyone who bet on that fight, we may have a mutiny. At least half the ship’s complement placed wagers on the outcome. I suggest you fine Corporal Owin for lying and dismiss the charges.” Riddler shook his head and sat.

By the end of Riddler’s summary, Captain Gebauer’s face had turned purple. The case against me had evaporated, and he needed someone to punish.

“Corporal Owin, you’re fined one thousand credits for making false charges. Lieutenant Reese is cleared of all charges. This court martial is adjourned.”

<Look around, little one. You more friends.>

Gebauer had held the court martial in Bay 28 and allowed anyone connected to me to attend. I presume he’d planned to disgrace me in from of them. I turned to see a lot of smiling faces, Wasps from my workouts, and most of the shuttle maintenance crew. When I turned back, Quentin leaned towards me and whispered.

“You need to be careful, Reese. You’ve become a lightening rod for people’s fears, prejudices, and appear to be right about the Captain. He’s a good Captain, but he seems obsessed over the Riss-human project. His attitude will embolden others to take action.”

* * * *

“That freak needs to be taught a lesson. A real lesson, one that puts her in the hospital for the rest of this cruise,” Owin slurred as he and his two friends staggered into the head. “I wish I were pissing on that bitch lieutenant rather than in this urinal—the damn Captain too. He practically kissed me when I said she’d been gambling. If she’d been found guilty, I bet he’d have promoted Lieutenant McInnis and me. Instead he fined us. I’d gladly pay one thousand credits to have her killed.”

“I’d have put her in the hospital if Valk hadn’t stopped me,” Blackstone said. “Now that she’s kissing his ass, she thinks that she’s better than us.”

“That would be fun.” Owin laughed. “Screw her first.”

“Maybe that would be fun, but we’d have to kill her,” Blackstone said. “Otherwise she could identify us. The Captain would be pleased, but we’d be in brig for the rest of this trip.”

“We need to determine her schedule and catch her alone where no one’ll bother us.” Blackstone frowned. “I think it would be easier to kill her and stuff her some place no one will look, or space her. The Captain certainly won’t spend a lot of time looking for her.”

* * * *

I was back to my normal routine the next day. In the workout area, I noticed a lot of thumbs-up as I entered the room. It lightened my mood. I had made a few friends and a found a few more who didn’t hate me. When the class finished, I saw Quentin waiting by the door.

“Reese, walk with me back to my office.” Quentin nodded towards the door.

<Thalia, am I in trouble again?>

<Worried. Not mad or angry.>

“Your planet of origin is Corona, isn’t it?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“I’ve just learned that raiders attacked the colony two weeks ago. The miners put up a good fight and killed five, but they lost forty-five and another twenty-six were wounded. Furthermore, the raiders kidnapped six young women. I thought you’d want to know, and...maybe see the list of those killed, wounded, or abducted.” Quentin held a paper but didn’t give it to me. I reluctantly put out my hand. I didn’t want to look but I had to know.

* * * *

Later in my quarters with tears trickling down my cheeks, I finished reviewing the list. I recognized names of people I’d worked with and shared meals, friends I’d been close to, and others who’d help raise me. Two of my best friends were on the list of those missing and believed kidnapped.

<I want revenge, Thalia. I want to see those raiders dead.>

<No wish revenge, little one. Revenge beast destroy you. Wish for justice.>

<If you lost friends and people you loved, wouldn’t you want revenge?>

<Two hundred years old. It why call you little one. Not because small size. Thalia there when settlers kill two Riss-Gorillai because fear. Riss only want meet other intelligent life forms. There when settlers hunted Riss-gorillai skin. Not seek revenge. Understand revenge create war. Many die. Riss lose everything. Retreat into mountains. Wait chance stop violence. We kill only self-defense, like any animal. Help humans understand Riss good partners. Right help fleet stop violence. Revenge bring hate, killing, wars. Revenge bad.>

<I’m sorry, Thalia. I didn’t know. Two hundred years old... How long do the Riss live?>

<Physically four, five hundred years. Mentally, thousands. Have my great, great, great...mother’s memories. Will pass to future daughter.>

<What will happen to you when I die?>

<Hopefully long time off. Stop calling you little one.> Laughter tingled through me. It was a strange but pleasant feeling.

<How long will that be?>

<Until you Riss adult. Two hundred years or more.>

<What! Everyone I know will be long dead!> I lapsed into stunned silence. My mind reeled from the death of my friends, the Riss’ philosophy, and my expanded lifespan.

<Thalia still here.>

Two weeks later the Peregrine docked at Saipha.

Chapter 11

I sat in Colonel Quentin’s office, sipping a cup of Eden kaffa. I had been called to his office and found Lieutenant Commander Phillop and Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk already there.

“The Captain has decided that you should deliver the Riss-humans rather than the army soldiers at the Saipha garrison. When I asked why, he said you’re the most qualified. I’ve convinced him that Wasps should accompany you. Gunny has volunteered to lead the detail.”

“I’ll bet the Captain had special instructions for you, Gunny.” I laughed. I wondered if he’d ever stop trying to get rid of me.

<We outlive him.>

Thalia’s laugh tingled.

“How did you know, Reese?” Quentin asked, taking a sip of kaffa. When I didn’t respond, he continued. “Yes, he told Gunny to let you desert, if you wanted.”

“Hope is a wonderful aphrodisiac. He’s hoping I’ll decide to stay with the Riss.”

“Would you?” Phillop asked, a frown of concern on his face.

“No, but I’d love to. When I volunteered for the program, I had stars in my eyes. You saw the pictures on my wall when you searched my room. Those represented my life-long dream. I selfishly thought only of the adventure. Now that I know the Riss, I could easily spend my life with them; however, I’m one of their few ambassadors to the human race. I’m committed to demonstrating they’re worthy of our respect and would be a valuable ally,” I answered from my heart.

“If you’re correct about the Captain, maybe you’d be better off deserting here on Saipha. Though I want you to know I rather you didn’t,” Phillop said.

“I wish the Captain would read my contract with the SAS. If an army or navy person wanted to leave the service, he or she would have to wait until their enlistment ended; otherwise, it would be desertion. I serve at my will. I can stop at any time. The only condition is that I must be returned to Saipha and the Riss nation. On Saipha, I merely need to remove my uniform to void my contract. I won’t have violated any law or regulation. There is no penalty clause,” I said and sat back. I’ll have plenty of time to live with the Riss after I finish my service commitment, I mused.

“I’m not sure if the Captain is more upset about you being a Riss-human or that he hasn’t been able to intimidate you. He doesn’t like anomalies. The Captain is concerned about the prisoners escaping and insists you take a minimum of six Wasps. I’m willing to give you more if you want, but I can’t let you leave with less.” Quentin relaxed back, waiting for my response.

“They aren’t prisoners except in Captain Gebauer’s mind. In their case, the Riss have decided to terminate the contract. No one has been charged with a crime. I would expect to be gone at least two weeks but no more than four. I’ll be in no danger. Once we’re inside Riss territory, no weapons of any kind are allowed without their express permission,” I said in frustration.

“I’ve asked Gunny to prepare a list of volunteers.” He looked in Valk’s direction.

“I’ve five troopers, real volunteers, and a longer list if you and Lieutenant Reese feel she’ll need additional support, Colonel.” Valk produced a piece of paper with names.

“No, six is enough,” I responded.

“Your detail will meet you in shuttle Bay 22 at 0600 hours for departure to Lanfal. Make sure you provide me with periodic updates on your progress. Good luck, Reese,” Quentin said as I rose to leave.

“Lieutenant, do you have time to meet with your escort team?” Valk asked as we exited Quentin’s office. “The team would like a briefing on the mission.”

“I’ll meet you in the dining room in thirty minutes, Gunny.”

* * * *

I shook my head when I saw the team comprised all the members of Valk’s Si’jin class.

“Why?”

“We thought it would be an interesting experience, and we’d get to meet the Gorillai,” Gunnery Sergeant Terril said. She was the highest-ranking member of the Si’jin class and their apparent spokeswoman. I outlined the trip into the Superstition Mountains and explained a little about the transfer process. I was looking forward to the trip, seeing the Riss enclave, and being in the company of my Riss-sisters.

<Me too.>

* * * *

When I entered Bay 22 for my ride to Lanfal, Colonel Quentin waited at the shuttle.

“Good morning, Reese. There’s been a change of plans. When I informed the Captain you may be gone anywhere from two to four weeks, he decided not to wait. We’re scheduled to leave for Sundance as soon as your shuttle leaves and return in five weeks. You and your squad are to check in with Major Hickson, at the army garrison in Lanfal. He’ll provide you with supplies and vehicles for the trip. When you return, you’ll be responsible for conducting the garrison’s yearly inspection. Major Hickson won’t like it, so I’ve drafted a letter authorizing you to conduct the inspection. I’ll review your findings when you return. Gunny knows the routine. He’ll be there to answer your questions and provide any assistance you need. Good luck.” Quentin checked his watch and walked away, shaking his head.

Valk and I entered the shuttle. The other five had already boarded, stored their gear, and helped get Aldric and Egon settled. Valk entered after me and started to walk toward the back.

“Gunny, please sit with me. I’ve many questions I’d like answered.” I slid into the window seat, giving Valk the aisle. I buckled in as the hatch slid closed and the green light turned red. The shuttle shook gently as it lifted.

“What do you think of this assignment, Gunny?”

“It won’t be boring, ma’am.” Valk grinned.

<When did I become “Ma’am?” I just finished school! He’s old enough to be my father—grandfather maybe.>

<You high-Riss. Leader. No longer schoolgirl.>

<I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself—as usual.>

“And your orders.” I had a funny feeling that Quentin had also given Valk instructions. He probably wouldn’t tell me, but it was worth a try.

“Ma’am, I’m here to follow your orders and give you advice if you want it.”

“I’m new and can use all the advice you care to share.”

<Can high-Riss use advice?>

<Advice yes, orders no.> I felt her laugh.

“Ma’am, your escort is all volunteers. They know you from our Si’jin classes and want to learn more about the Riss and you. Our session last night proved an excellent start. The Colonel sent me to do what Gunnies do—provide experience. He feels you’re smart enough to use that experience. There are those too concerned with their image or impressed with their rank to accept someone’s advice.

“Major Hickson is going to be a problem because he’s a major, and you’re a Lieutenant. Being a Riss-human may exacerbate the problem. Hopefully, I can help there. Although according to Chief Nesstor, you don’t seem easy to intimidate.”

“Thalia says once you allow someone to abuse you, it becomes acceptable to be abused.”

“Thalia?” Your Riss?” Valk seemed genuinely interested.

“Yes. ‘Thalia’ is the name we agreed upon after we joined. Her image name is Snow glistening on the mountaintop. The Riss are telepathic and communicate in streaming vid. Her real name is a vid depicting a mountain range with one enormous peak jutting above the others and covered in snow. In the vid, the snow-covered peak is above the clouds and is glistening in the sunlight.” I could see the image clearly as I tried to describe what couldn’t be captured in words.

“Beautiful. I can almost see it. As I said, when it comes to the Riss, I’m new and you’re the expert. I’m looking forward to the experience. Life was getting boring until you arrived.” Valk gave me a toothy grin.

I remained quiet for the rest of the trip, content to watch Saipha grow as we approached. I looked forward to visiting the Riss enclave, but not the inspection of the Lanfal garrison. The Captain appeared obsessed with discrediting the Riss, me, or both. It didn’t matter since we were one and the same. I know he hoped the trip to the Riss enclave would get rid of me. Failing that, I suspect he knew something about Major Hickson or the garrison that would do the trick. One thing for sure—it wouldn’t be boring.

Chapter 12

Customs at Lanfal went smoothly. Fleet personal were well liked and Saipha no exception. The IDs for my detail and me were recorded, documenting we’d entered the planet. Our bags were given a cursory examination, and we were released to the waiting army shuttle. The garrison was located five kilometers out of Lanfal, and the flight took less than ten minutes. Although it wasn’t yet winter, the temperature hovered around four-degrees Celsius. It seemed particularly cold after the twenty degrees maintained on the Peregrine. Snow was everywhere, yet the population walked around with not much more than I wore on the ship.

We were met at the garrison gate by a Lieutenant who escorted Valk and me to the Major’s conference room. While we waited, we were served kaffa.

<Show more important than Lieutenant.>

<The Major and the Captain must be related.>

Major Hickson showed up fifteen minutes later. When he walked in, Valk and I stood as his rank required.

“I assume you’re from the Peregrine,” Hickson said, omitting our rank and names. When he saw my “Rh” he added, “I see you’re one of those Riss-things.”

“Major, I’m Lieutenant Reese and this is Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk. We’re here by order of Captain Gebauer to escort the Riss-humans to the Riss enclave, and by order of Colonel Quentin, the Fifth Airborne Commando Brigade Commander, to conduct your annual review,” I said in a firm but casual voice.

“You?” Hickson stuttered.

“Yes, Sir, me. I’m sure Captain Gebauer and Colonel Quentin know what they’re doing. Don’t you, Sir?” Before he could comment, I continued. “They said that you’d outfit us for our trip to the Riss enclave. I’d like to leave tomorrow unless that’s too soon. If it is, I could begin my inspection instead.”

<Valk want laugh.>

I had to admire the Gunny. His face never twitched a muscle. Conversely, Hickson’s face turned red and he stammered.” Master Sergeant Wilson will see to your needs.” He glared at me, turned, and walked out of the room.

“I guess that means we’ll be leaving tomorrow,” I turned just in time to see Valk burst out laughing.

“I’ve matched wits with a lot of officers over the years—young and old—and usually hold my own. But I’ve never totally deflated one like that.” He laughed again. Five minutes later Master Sergeant Wilson appeared. I waited quietly, letting the sergeants sort out the details. Shuttles weren’t allowed inside of Riss territory; therefore, we would have to use snowgliders, which were the normal mode of travel on Saipha.

We spent a fun afternoon learning to drive the snowgliders. They were like an old-fashioned jetboat on snow rather than water. The army had two versions. One that sat two persons and the other four. Both versions were heated and covered. I decided to take three four-man units and ride three in each because it allowed extra room for supplies. Wilson went over the maps with my team and me. He estimated it would take three days from Hylan, to reach the location where we’d have to leave the snowgliders and hike into the Superstition Mountains. The eight-kilometer trek to the Gorillai’s designated meeting area would require another day.

“Lieutenant, you should be aware that weapons of any kind are prohibited inside Riss territory,” Wilson warned at the end of the meeting.

<Not worry. We give permission.>

* * * *

In order to reach the city of Hylan by evening, we departed early the next morning in one of the garrison’s troop shuttles. Not surprisingly, Major Hickson didn’t see us off. Wilson estimated the two thousand kilometer trip would take about eight hours. He’d made reservations for us at the local hotel, the Last Chance. Appropriately named, it provided the last accommodations before entering the backcountry, which was officially the Riss’ territory. He’d also arranged for the three snowgliders I’d requested.

The scenery on the ride up to Hylan was spectacular with its open plains to the left and soaring snow-capped mountains to the right. The small towns we passed seemed part of the landscape, blending seamlessly into the surrounding land. We reached Hylan at sunset, and the temperatures had begun to plunge to well below zero. The Last Chance hotel was more like an old fashion bed-and-breakfast. The town’s people were excited when they found I was a Riss-human. Trisha Zann, now a Vice Admiral, had grown up in these parts. She wasn’t only well-liked but considered a planet hero. I found myself the center of attention, and we were treated to a small party, which included the mayor and other town officials.

The next morning half the town turned out to wave goodbye and assured me they’d have accommodations for us when we returned. Before we departed, the locals showed us the locations of old Ranger stations. They were no longer used but would make good shelter.

The first snowglider had Gunnery Sergeant Terril, Corporal Nuex, and the Riss-human Aldric; I rode in the second one with Sergeant Handel, and the Riss-human Egon; and the third one carried Gunny Valk and Corporals Sanxay and Adnett.

The trip through the Superstition Pass was breathtaking with its huge pine trees, active streams, and snow-capped mountains. Once out of the pass, we were officially in Riss territory, and I called a halt for the day.

<Thalia, we’re in Riss territory. What should we do about the rifles?>

<Have right. Humans no. Could give permission.>

<I don’t want to ignore our sister’s rules.>

<Distribute among Riss.>

“Team, we’re now in Riss territory where weapons are prohibited. Thalia informs me that I could grant permission; however, I don’t want the Riss to feel their rules aren’t important. I know how that feels. Because I don’t want to leave our weapons behind, I’m going to ask you to give your weapons to Aldric, Egon, or me.”

“Ma’am, do you think that’s wise? I thought fleet had determined them to be unstable,” Valk said. Several nodded agreement.

“Sit. Let’s eat dinner while I educate you on the Riss and the Riss Project, which some refer to as the Riss experiment.” I went on to explain about Zann and her Riss, and how that had led to a treaty with the Riss and current limited trial. “Although the Riss seek peace, not power, and knowledge, not materialistic things, we’ve discovered that not every human can tolerate having another thinking person inside of them. The humans, Aldric and Egon, are being returned for their safety.” I took a few more bits of my sandwich, giving them time to absorb the information.

“You’re asking us to give our weapons to the Riss, not to the humans,” Valk said tentatively.

“Yes, Gunny.”

“Ma’am, you obviously trust...Thalia, and the others,” Terril, the only female in the group, questioned.

“Yes, Terril. Thalia and I talk mind to mind. I can’t lie to her and she can’t lie to me. Because the Riss are telepathic, they can’t lie to each other or to Thalia and me.”

“You said the Riss are controlling Egon and Aldric. Can Thalia control you?”

“Yes. But the Riss don’t want to control us. That would destroy them. They want to prove that they can be trusted and will be valuable allies. They want to integrate with the SAS, using their traditional host the Gorillai—not as Riss-humans. This experiment is very important to them.”

“Okay, Lieutenant.” Terril handed her rifle to Egon.

* * * *

Again we were up early, ate, collapsed our tents, and were on our way before sunrise. It took ten hours to reach the old ranger camp number five. We were happy to see the cabin. It would be a week or more before we would see a bed again. As we began unpacking, Thalia interrupted me.

<Something wrong. Listen.>

When I concentrated, I could hear snowgliders approaching from two different directions.

<How many?>

When Thalia adjusted my farsightedness, I saw two four-man gliders. One approached from the north and the other from the south.

“Line up the snowgliders, we have company. Collect your rifles but keep them out of sight but handy.” I stood watching the gliders approach. They stopped within shouting distance. Two men exited each glider, armed with rifles.

“We want no trouble,” the man from the north shouted. “You aren’t armed but we are. Free the two Riss-humans, and you may leave unharmed.”

“We’re Wasps, not idiots,” Terril snorted.

“Interesting, Gunny. Four armed men in front and four to our rear. We must either give up the Riss-humans, retreat west into the open prairie, or east into the mountains. What do you think?” The men, whoever they were, had set a good trap.

<Fair. Better block west.>

“It’s obvious they want us to believe they’ll let us live if we give up the Riss-humans. If we don’t, they want us to make a run for it east into the mountains. The fact that they aren’t shooting means they want the Riss-humans alive. The fact they have stopped so far away makes me think they want us to try to escape. Smells like a trap, Lieutenant,” Valk said slow and thoughtfully.

“You’ve five minutes before we start shooting,” the unknown man shouted.

“I agree. Everyone get ready to mount on my command. The Riss will drive. We’re heading west. No shooting unless we have too. They believe we’re unarmed. That could be an advantage,” I whispered.

“Is that wise, Lieutenant? There’s not much cover out there. Eventually, we’ll exhaust the fuel in our hydrogen cells. Here we at least have cover.” Valk watched me with a thoughtful frown.

<Think you wrong.> I felt Thalia laugh. It helped me relax. Not that I thought the situation wasn’t serious. I was just thankful for her presence even with her terrible sense of humor.

“Normally, I would agree, Gunny, but I know something those men don’t. We have friends on the prairie.” I smiled at their shocked faces. “There are three kinds: the low-Riss, the middle-Riss, and the high-Riss. The high-Riss rule the Riss—their host is the Gorillai. The middle-Riss inhabit the foothills—their host is the Snowcat. And the low-Riss inhabit the prairie—their host is the Wisent. To the west of us there is a herd of Wisent.”

“One minute left,” the unknown man shouted.

“Mount up.” We piled in the gliders and accelerated to the west. The raiders were slow to react. I suspect they’d been caught by surprise, expecting us to go east. I reasoned they’d relied on us running into the foothills, where they had more men waiting. Gunny was right. They wanted the Riss-humans alive, or they would have opened fire when we fled.

Our unexpected reaction gave us a few minutes head start. The raiders from the north were the first to react. Minutes later the ones from the south joined the chase.

Forty-five minutes into our flight, I found a herd of Wisent. I could see vids being exchanged between Thalia and the Riss-wisent.

<Slow down, little one. The herd split. Allow us pass. Close on those following.>

<Riss will get hurt, Thalia.>

<Riss-wisent panic wisent. Riss-wisent okay. Get big lead.>

I signaled a slow down as we approached the herd. As Thalia had predicted, the herd split with little panic. Our three snowgliders crept into the herd. When we exited several minutes later, the herd exploded into chaos. I signaled full acceleration, and we circled back towards the mountains. Unfortunately, our diversion put us fifty kilometers north of our planned stop. I hoped the raiders would have a difficult time following us.

* * * *

We reached the foothills just after dawn. I doubted the hydrogen fuel cells would have enough of a charge remaining to make it back to Hylan. That remained a problem for later.

<With Riss have boring life.> Everyone looked at me as I laughed. We unpacked the snowgliders and headed into the foothills. I left Egon behind to watch for the arrival of the raiders and sent Aldric ahead to scout the trail and locate the Riss.

“We can’t allow armed men to follow us to the Riss. Unless a few got killed when the wisent panicked, there could be twelve or possibly more chasing us, depending on how many where waiting for us to the east. I doubt they’re going to leave until they get the Riss-humans. Our advantage is that they don’t know we’re armed.” I looked to Valk. “Gunny, I want you to determine the best terrain for an ambush. You’re the expert. Unless they turn back, we’re going to stop them from advancing further into Riss territory.”

* * * *

Sergeant Rynom fumed in disgust. Nothing had gone according to the clever plan they’d created back on the Puff Adder. First Red Berets showed rather than regular army from the Saipha garrison. One Wasp would be the equivalent of three garrison troopers. The only good news, they appeared to be unarmed as required by the Riss-human Treaty. Then the carefully planned trap in the foothills failed. The idiots ran west into the exposed prairie. What should have been a disaster for them turned out to their advantage because of those damn wisents. The beasts had totally destroyed one of the snowgliders, killed two of his men, wounded two, and caused a six-hour delay. He’d spent another two hours collecting the four men he’d left in the foothills. Now he had to chase them in the mountains.

* * * *

Two hours into our trek a snowcat suddenly appeared at my side. A good thing no one had noticed the cat’s arrival, until it stood next to me. Corporal Sanxay noticed first. He shouted a warning and turned his gun towards the cat. I stepped in front of her before he could fire.

“Stop. Everyone lower your rifles. This is a Riss-snowcat. Egon sent her to inform me of the raiders’ progress. There are ten men pursuing us. Egon estimates they’re several hours behind us.” The cat sat quietly by my side, looking like a large domesticated pet except for the four-centimeter feline fangs, which showed when she opened her mouth.

* * * *

Another Snowcat appeared a few minutes later.

“Aldric’s found a narrow trail ahead that might be a good spot for an ambush,” I said as I continued walking with the snowcats following. We maintained a grueling pace and arrived at the trail an hour later. The trail narrowed and then opened onto a wide-open field. At the far end of the field, a rocky area led into another narrow trail. Valk agreed the rocks provided good cover, and the open field would be a good killing ground if we could get them out in the open.

“Even though they believe we’re unarmed, they’ll be careful entering an open field like this. I would. They’ll send a few men ahead before the rest follow. In that case, we won’t get them all. If we don’t, it’ll be a stalemate. We need to make them think we aren’t armed, and running scared.”

“What if we made it look like the last person or two had just entered the narrow trail ahead? It may entice them to get reckless.”

“That might do it, but it would leave the last person exposed for a couple of minutes.” Valk pointed to the open area between the rocks and the path.

“Let one person stand at the opening waving for me to hurry, as if I were the last person.”

“Ma’am, Colonel Quentin’s other order was to make damn sure you didn’t get hurt. He’d bust me to private if I go back with you injured or worse, dead. Besides, life would be boring again.” He smiled but his eyes didn’t.

“Gunny, I can run three times faster than any of you. I’m not saying it’s not dangerous, but less so for me. Anyway, I’m in charge.” We discussed everyone’s position and when the ambush would begin. I insisted they wait until all the raiders were out of the pass. That met with opposition. I pulled rank—again.

<That feels funny.>

<You high-Riss.>

<I’m a young inexperienced woman who’s scared. I don’t want you to die.>

<Good. Me neither. You run fast.> Thalia’s laughter flowed through me like a river.

I hid behind a boulder about fifty meters from the narrow trail exiting the open plain. Corporal Sanxay stood at the entrance.

Four hours later, two men began walking into the open field. I waited until they were well past the opening and signaled Sanxay.

“Hurry, Reese,” he shouted and I began running. Adrenalin pumped through me as I accelerated. I flew over the ground as dirt and rocks exploded with needles. I had though it would be laser fire, which would have been focused and required more precision. A Needler shot spread like buckshot, requiring less accuracy. My speed increased. I could feel Thalia’s concern.

Pain shot though my thigh and calf. I tripped. The entrance and safety lay only a few meters ahead. Needles were hitting everywhere. The pain eased. Thalia’s work. I jumped up and dashed for the opening. Just as I reached the opening, pain shot through my shoulder and back. Then my team opened fire. I had never heard anything like seventeen guns exploding simultaneously. I stumbled into the opening and landed on my hands and knees, gasping for breath. Suddenly the chaos stopped and a deathly silence prevailed.

<Can’t remove needles. Lay down. Numb pain.>

I lay exhausted, and my entire body throbbed with pain. Before too long, the pain began to ease and miraculously stopped. I sighed in relief.

“You’re wounded, Lieutenant,” Valk said. He sounded angry as he inspected my wounds. “Colonel Quentin’s going to be pissed. We’re all going to be on extra duty for a year, if we’re lucky. We found two wounded and two got away. Their wounds are serious, but not life-threatening. The two that escaped will probably return to the gliders.”

<I fix. Not run fast enough. Need training.>

I felt her amusement and relaxed. What else could I do?

“Don’t worry, Gunny, Thalia informs me my wounds aren’t too serious. Were any of our people hurt?”

“Two were wounded. They aren’t serious.” He turned towards the opening in the pass as the team started coming in.

“How’s the Lieutenant, Gunny?”

“Her Riss says she’s all right, although it doesn’t look good to me. Nothing life-threatening.”

“That’s good. Corporal Nuex should be able to help her. He’s had more medical training than the rest of us,” Terril said. “I’m impressed. That was some training exercise. Do you think we can get the Lieutenant to take us on another one?”

<See not only one enjoy.>

<You would. The Wasps do this for a living.>

“I think she’s a little tired right now, Terril.” Valk snorted.

“The Lieutenant sure can run. She was right. If it had been any of us, we would’ve been killed before we got halfway.”

“We’ve got trouble.” Handel pointed back towards the pass. I saw rifles raised and heard safeties click off.

Chapter 13

“We got huge furry animals coming this way!”

“Don’t shoot. Those are Riss,” I tried to shout. It came out more like a whisper.

“Stand down!” Valk shouted loud and clear.

“Those are the biggest creatures...animals...people I’ve ever seen. Certainly wouldn’t want to do hand-to hand combat with them,” Terril said. “Look, they’re dragging the two raiders that got away. Bet their pants are full of shit.”

“Can’t say I blame them. I almost feel sorry for them. Well, sort of,” Adnett said. Nuex knelt next to me.

“Ma’am, those needles need to come out. It’ll be a long time before we reach a hospital. I’m afraid I’m going to have to take off your pants and shirt to get at them, and I don’t have anything to deaden the pain.”

<I do.>

“Go ahead, Corporal. Thalia will take care of the pain.”

He carefully cut out the needles and applied compresses to stop the bleeding, which wasn’t necessary. As he did, I felt Thalia communicating with the oncoming Riss.

“Oh, I’m glad I came along. They’re magnificent,” Terril whispered. “I wonder how the Lieutenant ever managed to get one of those in her? She’s so small and they’re so big.”

“My God but they’re big,” Sanxay said in a voice ringing with disbelief. I laughed.

“Their bodies are like a plane. I’ve got the pilot.”

<Why Thalia not drive?>

<You’re the co-pilot.> It was my turn to be amused.

“So it’s something like a brain inside you?” Sanxay asked.

“Yes. You’ve two lobes in your brain. I’ve an extra one. You’ve a network of nerves. I’ve a second network that can control the other—like now. I feel no pain, although Nuex is poking around with a knife.” I hadn’t thought much about it in physical terms before. I liked the analogy.

When the four Gorillai reached the pass, Thalia and the Riss exchanged events over the past few days, while the team bound the captives between open-eyed looks at the Gorillai.

<We stay. Difficult walk with wounded. Riss come.>

<Thank our sisters.>

When Nuex had finished, I managed to sit up, but only because Thalia continued to control the pain and the bleeding.

“We can relax and let Nuex work on anyone needing attention. The Riss are coming to us.”

Lieutenant, they’re scary when you first see them, but they’re a magnificent...people,” Terril said. “But I can see why the natives would be afraid of them and not realize they were intelligent.”

“Yes, Terril. Fear tends to override logic. Their size and general features makes them look terrifying. They’re a gentle people. We’re the terrifying ones.” I pointed to the raiders.

* * * *

Several hours later a large group of Riss entered the clearing. The team tried to look calm, but I knew they were uncomfortable with so many Gorillai. They relaxed somewhat when I went into the middle of the Riss-gorillai.

<Welcome sisters. I’m sorry we brought this trouble into your territory.>

<No choice. We thank you. You risked life and friends. Protect us.>

A series of vids followed. The SV stopped and one image remained like a picture—two beautiful snow-capped mountains with a river flowing between them.

<Call you sister. Give Riss name like give me human name. See your name.>

As with Thalia’s name, it could never be translated in human words. The closest I could get to my Riss-name would be the River that runs between two snow-capped mountains. The meaning was clear: Riss and humans. We talked late into the night. The team asked lots of questions, which I translated like Zann had done for me. The next morning the Riss left with Aldric and Egon, and we left with our prisoners. Although the wounded weren’t disabled, we traveled slowly. Late afternoon on the second day, we reached the snowgliders. Although it was a welcoming sight with the snow shimmering with the deep orange of the setting sun, I felt sorry to leave my sisters.

We were lucky. The raiders had been prepared and brought extra fuel packs. With four prisoners we needed four of the six gliders. I drove one with all of the weapons. One had two healthy Wasps with the two healthy raiders, and in the other two, one wounded raider with one healthy and one wounded Wasp. I didn’t anticipate any trouble. The wounded weren’t in any condition to fight; Wasps guarded the two healthy ones; and I had all the weapons.

We reached Hylan early in the morning. I contacted the garrison and requested a shuttle. While we waited, we spent the time giving the locals an abbreviated version of what had happened, and the team gave their impressions of the Gorillai. The Hylan police secured the prisoners and the locals used the occasion to have a mini party. The shuttle arrived late that afternoon. Master Sergeant Wilson, with a broad smile, exited the shuttle first.

“Ma’am, you probably don’t need any help, but I brought six troopers along for company.”

“I appreciate that, Sergeant. We’re pretty worn out and could use someone to watch our prisoners. Not that I think they’ll be any trouble.” I smiled. This was probably the most excitement Wilson had in the last couple of years.

The local doctor treated the wounded. The two raiders had the most serious injuries.

“We should have the garrison doctor keep an eye on them for the next few days,” I commented.

“Before they hang?” Wilson replied with a smile.

“We may have some leniency if they talk. I for one would love to know who sent them and how they knew we would be transporting two Riss-humans.” Just then Valk and the team came along with the prisoners. Wilson took charge of loading them into the shuttle and securing them for the ride back.

We reached the garrison late that the evening and found Major Hickson waiting at the landing strip. I exited first. When I reached the ground, I stopped and saluted. He returned the salute almost reluctantly.

“I see you had trouble. What are they guilty of, trespassing?”

“They’re raiders, guilty of entering the Riss territory without permission, carrying weapons onto their land, and attempting to kill Riss.”

<I’m tired of people who speak before they think.>

<Hard avoid. Too many.>

“I assume you also entered without permission and had weapons. I’m afraid I’ll have to press charges against you.” He smiled. I just shook my head. As Thalia had said, puppets on the strings of prejudice.

<Very wise.>

<Because you’re so old. And no picture of him on strings.>

“I authorized the Wasps to enter Riss land and to carry their weapons. If that’s too complicated for you to understand, I can get my Riss-sisters to explain it to you, Sir.”

The Major turned red and stuttered. To make matters worse several persons behind me coughed in an obvious attempt not to laugh outright.

“That’s insubordination, Lieutenant. I’ll have you court-marshaled.”

“I’ve thirteen witnesses as to what I said. I merely explained to you why it would be illegal to arrest my team or me. It’s I who should be pressing charges against you for your obvious violation of the Riss treaty in attempting to arrest a Riss, Sir.”

“You’re not Riss—” He stopped when I turned my head and pointed to the tattoo.

“In fact, I’m high-Riss, Sir. Arresting a high-Riss would bring the Riss nation down on you. The SAS might consider that a major inconvenience, Sir.” By now the major’s face had turned purple and silence had descended around me.

“This isn’t over,” he sputtered, leaving out my rank.

“No, it isn’t, Major. Tomorrow I’ll start my inspection of the garrison. You may want to accompany me and my Gunny, or you may send a surrogate in your place, Sir.”

With that the Major turned and walked quickly away.

“An interesting exchange, ma’am,” Wilson said as his detail led the prisoners away.

“I’m afraid I’m twice tired, Master Sergeant.” I frowned. “Tired from lack of sleep and of people who make judgments before they know the facts. Sergeant, would you see that the prisoners get any additional medical treatment, and that they remain separated from each other? I’ll want to talk to each of them tomorrow and don’t want them collaborating. I also have a couple of people who need checking on.”

“I’ll take care of it, ma’am.” Wilson saluted and left to follow his men.

<Very good, little one. Major no match against high-Riss.>

Thalia’s laugh tingled through my bones, relieving some of the tiredness.

<Thank you, Thalia. I must always remember I represent the high-Riss.>

* * * *

I woke feeling rested. After a wash, I wore my dress-whites for the inspection and decided to have breakfast at the mess hall before beginning. I hoped Hickson chose to send Wilson. I wasn’t looking forward to any more confrontations with him. I sighed in relief when I saw Valk and Wilson sitting at one of the tables eating.

“Mind if I join you,” I asked as I approached with my tray, loaded with scrambled eggs, wisent patties, potatoes, and Saipha kaffa.

“No, ma’am,” Wilson said. “Do you intend to talk to the prisoners today?”

“Yes, I think I’ll do that first. They’ve had enough time to think over their fate.”

“Do you mind if I watch? You’ve an interesting style.” Wilson looked at Valk.

<Valk and Wilson talk. They amused.>

Thalia’s laugh echoed gently in my head. When I finished eating, Wilson led Valk and me to the prisoners. The four had been separated and a guard posted to ensure they didn’t communicate. I opened the cell holding the first. Like the others, he was dressed for action: fatigue-like pants, tight shirt, jacket, and boots. Each article’s color either white or light gray, which made good camouflage against the snow.

“I’ve heard that hanging isn’t too bad. Of course, you’re dead after they hang you. It’s the waiting to be hanged that’s stressful.”

“You don’t scare me,” the burly man said. He looked wild with his bushy beard and hair, and disheveled clothes. He massed around sixteen stone, and it looked to be all muscle.

“That’s good. I’d hate to see you cheat the hangman.” I shrugged and turned to go.

“What do you mean, cheat the hangman?”

“My superior wanted to give immunity from hanging to anyone who answered my questions. I argued against it, but...he’s my superior. So, I have to talk to each of you. I suggest you all decline his offer. Honor among thieves and all that?” I doubted there existed any honor among them; however, I may have been wrong. No one wanted the deal.

<They don’t seem afraid so much as resigned. I wonder if they’re afraid of whom they work for or if it’s loyalty?>

<Think loyalty.>

“It was a good try, ma’am. You had me  convinced.” Wilson said.

“Sergeant, can you find out what ships stopped here in the last two weeks? Someone dropped them off and will have planned to pick them up. If we can determine who visited here during the last week or two and match that with whoever returns in the next couple of weeks, we may have a lead.”

“I can do that.” Wilson nodded. “We have a pretty good tracking system in Saipha. It would be hard for ship to sneak in and out without being detected. How am I going to get you the information when I do?”

“Send it to Colonel Quentin on the Peregrine.”

* * * *

Accompanied by Wilson, Valk and I conducted the garrison inspection over the next three days. The inspection went well, which pleased me. I had my fill of fighting with Hickson. The arms and ammunition were properly stored, safeguarded, and accounted for; the personal on the rolls matched the payroll; all the buildings were well maintained; and the supplies and equipment purchases seemed reasonable and necessary. I found the inspection interesting and learned a lot from Valk. After we finished, Wilson arranged for a meeting with Hickson for the next day.

* * * *

“Well, Lieutenant, what discrepancies have you manufactured to get even?” Hickson said after Valk and I entered the room. He didn’t offer for us to sit.

“We found everything is order. You run a good garrison, Major,” I said.

<Another fool. Ignore nonsense. Not worthy serious attention.>

“Couldn’t find anything even if you tried, and I’ll bet you did.”

I said nothing, just waited to be dismissed.

“Got nothing to say, Lieutenant?” he said, pointing his finger at me.

The vitriol was too much for Gunny. “Enough, Major. The Lieutenant has given you her report. There’s nothing else to say, unless you’re trying to provoke her. In that case, I’ll inform Colonel Quentin of your attack on her.”

Hickson came out of his chair. “Who do you think you are?”

“I’m a Red Beret Master Gunnery Sergeant.” Valk stared at the major until he sat down.

“I’m going to report you both,” Hickson said, after he sat down.

“I hope so, Major. I think Colonel Quentin needs to consider whether you’re fit to command. You’ve insulted a high-Riss, threatened an illegal arrest, and continuously attempted to provoke Lieutenant Reese without reason.”

“Dismissed.”

Valk and I turned and left.

“I know now why everyone stops talking when a Red Beret Gunny passes.” I laughed. It felt good.

* * * *

A week later, the Peregrine returned. Wilson had provided us transportation to the station. We left without seeing the Major.

“Ma’am, only two ships have stopped here in the last three weeks. The Compton and the Hamersmihe. I’ll let you know which one stops back here in the next couple of weeks. Good Luck, Lieutenant.”

Chapter 14

The shuttle touched down with a slight bump and the engine cut. I walked down the ramp and saluted as I approached Colonel Quentin and Lieutenant Commander Phillop, who stood waiting.

“Welcome back, Lieutenant. Rumor has it that you came back with four prisoners. Give you a Gunny and five Wasps, and you start a war. At least you brought all six back, although I see two are slightly worn.”

“Yes, Sir. It wasn’t much of a fair fight. They outnumbered the raiders. There were only twelve.”

“Hardly a fair fight,” Quentin said with a smile. “Why don’t you and Gunny come to my office and give me an update. Captain Gebauer is going to want a report. Perhaps it would be best if Gunny and I give it.”

I agreed. Gebauer and I would both be happier.

<Better Quentin not mention you. Give Gunny credit.>

<You’re right. Maybe I can convince Quentin to leave out all the details about the Riss.>

In Quentin’s office, we were served kaffa and the atmosphere relaxed. I let Gunny do most of the talking. His version was complete without excessive detail, although he left out little when it came to Major Hickson.

“I think the Captain proved right having you deliver the Riss-humans. I hate to imagine what would have happened if Hickson would have been responsible for delivering them.” Quentin paused and looked at me. “You think the men who attacked you were raiders?”

“Yes, Sir. I’ve heard that Riss-humans are valuable in the UFN and JPU. They were there for the money. Someone dropped them off and someone will be back to pick them up.”

“A raider’s ship wouldn’t be allowed in Saipha space.”

“I believe it was either the merchant ship Compton or  the Hamersmihe.”

“Which one?”

“Master Sergeant Wilson will let me know if either one returns within the next couple of weeks.”

Quentin laughed. “I’d love to see what you, Gunny, and five Wasps would do if I let you lose.”

Phillop and I left together. “Are you going to miss the action, Reese?” Phillop looked concerned while waiting for my answer.

“No, Sir. I can do without the action. I’m enjoying my duties on the Peregrine. I like Captain Gebauer’s idea of rotations and look forward to gaining the experience.”

“That’s good because the Captain has decided to rotate you when you get back. Your next assignment will be the Environmental section. I’ll take you over tomorrow to meet Lieutenant Commander Jacklin.”

* * * *

“Jacklin, this is Lieutenant Reese. She’s one of your new Environmental officers,” Phillop said. I braced to attention, waiting his acknowledgement.

“Thanks, Phillop, I’ll take it from here. Relax, Reese, and have a seat.” Jacklin seated himself. “It’s very unusual to have a Lieutenant in Environmental who isn’t in charge of the unit. The Captain seems to think you’re not qualified. Is that true, Lieutenant?”

<There’s a loaded question. What do you think, Thalia?>

<Honest best approach.>

“Sir, I’m familiar with the theory of a Destroyer class cruiser like the Peregrine; however, I’ve never had hands-on experience.”

“You need hands-on experience because?” Jacklin’s lip twitched as if he’d said something funny.

“Sir, I can’t expect to supervise a crew without having done or at least watched them do the work.”

“Yes, Phillop said you liked to get your hands dirty.” Most Ensigns and JGs seldom do, Reese. They like to watch others get dirty. I don’t know whether you’re qualified or not, but you’re a Lieutenant and should be. Besides, Phillop liked your performance.” Jacklin paused to stare at me. “So you’re in charge.”

My jaw dropped in surprise.

“Yes, Sir,” was the best I could get out. Jacklin ignored my surprise and shaky response. “Come, I’ll give you a tour of the unit and introduce you to my three JGs. A couple of them could use supervision.”

The tour was brief but interesting. I met his three JGs: Jack Daber, Pat Odell, and Sue Akers.

<What do you think, Thalia?>

<Daber not like you. Odell neutral. Akers afraid of you.>

<That’s about normal.>

“Sir, who’s your Chief? I’d like to meet him.”

“You learn fast, Reese. His name’s Rucker.”

Senior Chief Petty Officer Rucker came from the same piece of battle steel as the other chiefs. They were no-nonsense men who knew their jobs, people, and who didn’t tolerate fools—or cocky Lieutenants.

“Senior Chief, this is Lieutenant Reese. She’ll be in charge of the unit.” Jacklin smiled and walked away, leaving me alone with Rucker.

<He amused.>

“Ma’am?” Rucker asked.

“Senior Chief, I need a list of things that I’ll need to know and do. I’ve no hands-on experience.” The chief reached into his pocket and handed me a piece of paper with a list of items and a schedule.

“I talked to Nesstor. I’ll see you tomorrow at 0700 hours, ma’am.”

<Chiefs communicate almost good as Riss.>

I felt her laugh.

* * * *

“Good morning, Lieutenant.” Rucker said. “Are you ready to begin work?”

“Lead on, Senior Chief.”

“The Environmental unit is the reclamation center for the Peregrine. As much as possible, we recycle the waste from the ship into usable form. For example, the water from washing, cleaning up, and toilets is converted into useable water, commonly called gray water. Water from faucets and showers is converted into drinking water.” He paused. I considered what he had said. At first, I was shocked at the thought of using wastewater for drinking. “Shocking, isn’t it, Lieutenant?”

“Without knowing more, it is.”

“Good answer. The water from the various sources comes in here through separate pipes and is processed accordingly. We replenish our supply of drinking water at each stop and only use processed water if we run out. Let’s take a tour of the facility. I’ll show you the location of the equipment, answer any questions you have, and introduce you to the people who maintain it.”

Rucker stood a head taller than me—everyone did. His face and physique showing signs of age, but his brown eyes looked alert. We spent the next three hours walking through the unit’s many compartments. I learned the layout of the equipment and met all the people on the morning shift. We found Daber in the solid waste processing section. There the solid waste was incinerated.

“Lieutenant Daber, I believe you’ve met the unit’s new supervisor,” Rucker said, more as a statement than a question. I thought it strange that Rucker emphasized that I was in charge.

“Commander Jacklin introduced us yesterday. No experience, I understand, Lieutenant.”

“I don’t have hands-on experience, but then I don’t need it to be in charge, do I?”

“No. I guess not.”

<Mad at you.>

<I think you’ve already pointed out to me that’s his problem, not mine.>

“Perhaps you could explain your responsibilities here, Lieutenant.” I know mine. That clearly flustered him. I’d turned the focus back on him. For the next fifteen minutes he went through an explanation of his perceived duties, which never included doing.

“Do you think you could fix this equipment, if you had to?”

“That’s not my responsibility.” He shrugged with a sneer.

“No, it isn’t.” I turned back to the Rucker. “What next, Chief?” Rucker went on to explain the machinery in detail and its functions.

“ Senior Chief, I don’t imagine you work a specific shift.”

“No, ma’am.” He shook his head and smiled.

“I plan to spend, at least, several hours on each shift. Please inform your sergeants it’s not to look over their shoulders. It’s for me to meet the people and learn what I can from them. I’d appreciate their help, since they’re the experts.”

“Yes, ma’am.” I wasn’t sure why he smiled. “Nesstor thought you might.”

<He amused.>

* * * *

I enjoyed the next month and the time flew by. I’m naturally inquisitive and wanted to be involved in the work, whether repairs or simple routine maintenance. I found the sergeants made an effort to include me when something needed doing, so I could watch. The JGs, except for Daber, soon became involved and seemed to enjoy learning the intricacies of the equipment and the maintenance crews’ responsibilities. Rucker made regular appearances on each shift.

“Well, Lieutenant, would you like an up close and personal tour of the filtering systems? Usually the equipment’s cleaned when we stop at colonies that have repair facilities, but occasionally it clogs and needs someone to unclog it. He held up a silver suit, helped me put it on, and sealed it.

“We shut the unit down before we go in, and wear sealed suits because the shaft contains toxic gases and acids that would cause serious burns, if it didn’t kill you. You’ve a separate oxygen tank in case your oxygen line gets separated.” He removed the access cover and we both entered, Rucker first. It was wide enough for two people but not high enough to stand. At each station, he explained the filter’s function and the method used to clean or replace them. The last duct processed hard waste and the filters separated finer and finer particles, which were subsequently incinerated.

“The processed water is chemically treated and used for the toilets and certain cleaning functions. The clogged filters are replaced and cleaned at repair facilities. Spare filters are stored in these watertight panels next to each duct.”

I could just imagine the potential danger if we hadn’t been wearing special equipment. Our suits contained no exposed metal that could produce sparks, since the air was filled with explosive gases. Afterwards we showered with our suits on, so they would be clean for the next time.

“Thank you, Chief. That was interesting.”

“You’re welcome, Lieutenant. I think you’re the first officer to crawl in there and certainly the first to think it interesting.”

For the next month I noted that Akers and Odell’s knowledge improved, as did the crews’ morale. Daber remained aloof. Jacklin insisted on a weekly meeting with me for an update on the unit. The meetings allowed me to get to know Jacklin. I found him knowledgeable and interesting.

“Well, Lieutenant, how do you like this rotation?” he asked during our eighth meeting.

“I’ve found it interesting, and the crews are very good.”

“And the JGs?”

“I think Odell and Akers have shown marked improvement. Daber does his job but isn’t interested in getting involved. I would prefer he did, but it isn’t required for officers.” I tried to be fair and honest.

“I understand you don’t mind getting involved or dirty.”

“That’s the way I learn best.”

“Your are exactly how Phillop described you. Keep up the good work.”

* * * *

Two weeks later, with JG Daber on the night shift, the number two hard waste reclamation unit clogged and had to be shut down. Three men were on duty, but only one knew how to change the filters. Two were required for safety.

“Suit up, Embert, I’ll go with you.”

“Are you sure, Lieutenant? We could wake Petty Officer Andersen.”

“That would take another hour. I’d like to get it back on line as soon as possible. I’m here and understand enough to back you up.” I knew it wasn’t really necessary, but I’ve always enjoyed doing rather than watching. Guess that made me a poor officer.

<Rather be Daber?>

I choked. <I rather be a poor officer.> I laughed with Thalia and didn’t feel so guilty. Fifteen minutes later we entered and quickly located the clogged filter. Somehow the obstruction didn’t appear right.

“Someone intentionally diverted the solid waste into the recyclable conduit. These filters weren’t made to handle solid waste,” Embert said over the suit’s internal comm. Just then I heard the access door slam shut—and the unit turned on. I knew it wouldn’t be long before the gas and slush would begin to build. I wasn’t sure what lying in slush would do, but I wasn’t anxious to find out. Embert and I began scrambling back down the duct. Halfway back the door opened and a laser flashed. Adrenaline rushed through me, and I slipped in front of Embert. The explosion drove us down the shaft and out into the corridor wall.

* * * *

When I regained consciousness, I felt nothing.

<Blocked feeling. You hurt. Concussion, fractures, swelling, cuts. I fix. Take time.> I felt no amusement and would have laughed if I could.

<We have exciting ride. I busy.>

That’s the Thalia I love—everything was fun, amusing, or both. I relaxed.

“Commander, we need to scan her body to determine the extent of her injuries,” someone said. “She doesn’t have any compound fractures, but her body is black and blue from head to foot. She might have a concussion. Corporal Seams, get her moved to the Scanning unit.”

“No,” I managed to squeak out. “No. Salve and bandages but no medication or other treatment.”

“She must be delirious, Doctor.” The voice sounded like Jacklin’s.

“She may be, but I can’t touch her without her permission. It’s part of the medical instructions on her ID, with an SAS no exceptions order.”

“That’s stupid!”

“Yes, but I can’t. If she were unconscious, I may have ignored the no exception order, but you heard her say ‘No.’”

I heard people come and go, and muttered voices, but couldn’t remember what they said. Two days later, Thalia returned me to full consciousness.

<More to do. Well enough to leave.>

“Nurse, can I’ve something to wear? I’m leaving. How is Petty Officer Embert doing? I’d like to see him before I leave.”

“You blocked most of the blast. The doctor released him yesterday.”

This time they didn’t argue. It was, however, obvious that they weren’t comfortable with me leaving. They gave me a patient’s gown, and I returned to my room. I felt a little foolish walking through the corridor with only a hospital gown and robe. I got some strange looks but no comments. I entered my cabin and didn’t bother removing anything. I flopped on the bed and slept for two days. When I woke, I felt starved and almost normal.

<Thalia fixed. You go faster next time.>

Her amusement tingled. Still in the gown and robe. I wandered to the navy mess, which was almost empty. After a double helping of lunch and lots of strange looks, I returned to my room and stood in the Kleanzer for what seemed like hours. Feeling refreshed, I dressed and made my way down to my unit. Akers was on duty.

“Ma’am, we thought you’d die.”

“I’m too young to die, Akers. How is everything going?”

Just then, Rucker and Jacklin interrupted us. “Reese, why are you here? You should be in sick bay or your room.”

“I’m fit for duty, Sir.”

“The doctor said you wouldn’t let them treat you. Why?”

“I’m a Riss-human. The doctors aren’t familiar with a Riss-human and may have caused more problems then they fixed. Thalia, my Riss, took care of my injuries.”

“I don’t understand, but you seem to have recovered without their help. Petty Officer Embert said that someone had intentionally clogged the filter and ignited the gas while you and he where in the shaft. Do you know who?” Jacklin asked.

I thought I did but didn’t have any proof.

“No, Sir.” I saw Rucker shake his head in obvious frustration.

“The Captain said he wants to see you when you return to duty. I can postpone it for a couple of days, if you want.”

“No, Sir. Let’s get it over with.” I sighed.

< Here we go again.>

<You high-Riss.>

Amusement rippled through me.

Chapter 15

Jacklin and I were admitted immediately along with Commander Riddler. I’d barely stepped through the door when Gebauer pointed a finger at me, his face red and angry.

“I knew this would happen. It’s going to take weeks to fix the damage you caused. I’m relieving you of your duties,” Gebauer said. I remained silent.

<Little one, final confrontation. Wants destroy high-Riss.>

<Yes. I’m so tired. I wish I could go to Saipha. But I know my sister’s dreams.>

Jacklin and the XO remained silent.

“You win, Captain Gebauer.” It was the last thing I wanted to do, but he left me no choice. Gebauer smiled and leaned back in his chair. “XO, we, Lieutenant Nadya Reese and Snow glistening on the mountain top, demand you send at message to Vice Admiral Zann requesting a board of inquiry. It’s to include the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the senior Riss representative. I’m formally accusing Captain Gebauer, on the SAS Peregrine, of intentionally attempting to sabotage the SAS Riss-human project.”

“Who do you think you are, giving my XO orders?” The Captain’s chair snapped up, his eyes narrowed and his lips pressed tight. I looked at the XO but remained silent.

“Her ID specifies several indefeasible rights granted her by the SAS. One of those is the right to an inquiry by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and a Riss representative, which can be Vice Admiral Zann.” The XO shrugged. “Captain, I would obey any order you gave me. I won’t disobey a right specifically granted by the SAS. I would be subject to court-marshal and confinement.”

The Captain sat quietly, glaring at me with naked hate. Slowly, he dropped his eyes for a moment before looking up. “Let’s compromise. I’ll guarantee that you’ll be treated fairly, and you rescind your request for an inquiry.”

“No. I can’t trust you, Captain. You’ve a history of attempting to discredit me. I’ll make you a compromise. I’ll add an addendum to the message asking Vice Admiral Zann to hold the inquiry until I can talk to her. If you’ve treated me fairly by the end of this tour, I’ll ask her to withdraw it. You’ll probably get a comment in your personnel file stating that you shouldn’t be allowed to transport Riss-humans, which should please you.”

“What privileges do you expect for you to decide to withdraw your request for an inquiry?”

“None. Your crew considers you hard but fair. I only ask that you treat me the same as you would any other officer under your command—no better, no worse. You don’t have to like me.” I paused. “What would you’ve done if someone had attempted to kill Commander Jacklin?”

“I would have torn this ship…” He lapsed into silence. “You’re right. I accept your compromise, but to be honest, I can’t promise I’ll ever like you.”

“I can accept that.”

“Jacklin, how would you rate Lieutenant Reese’s performance?”

“Very good. Because of her rank, I put her in charge of the unit. I’ve noticed an improvement in morale and the performance of the JGs under her.”

Ironically, he excluded any mention of Daber.

Gebauer was quiet for a moment, then spoke. “XO, I’ve decided rotate Lieutenant Reese to Navigation. I want you to ensure that she receives all the assistance she needs to succeed.” He turned to Jacklin. “Jacklin, I want a comprehensive inquiry into the explosion. Is that fair, Lieutenant?”

“Yes, Sir.”

<He believe he tell truth.>

<I hope so. You deserve better.>

Gebauer returned my salute, and I exited with the XO, who steered me into the Captain’s conference room.

“Sit, Lieutenant. Captain Gebauer has always been fair, but this project has thrown him off balance. He hasn’t been fair with you. Although you backed him down, I’d ask you not to gloat over your victory or to talk about it.”

“Sir, I’m only concerned about the Riss. I didn’t confront the Captain to embarrass him. I fight for the Riss, not myself. The Riss deserve the chance to prove they’ll be a valuable partner to the SAS.”

“Thank you, Reese. You can count on the Captain to honor his word, and you’ll have my full support. Let’s go see Commander Uchida. She’s our senior Navigations officer.”

* * * *

Thalia and I thought we’d entered the home of the Gods. Being on the command deck was like being inside the brain of the Peregrine. Dozens of monitors lined the walls registering its many activities. In the center of the room, a hologram displayed the Peregrine’s view of the outside universe. Six people sat in front of consoles filled with electronic equipment. Riddler broke my trance by touching my arm and pointing to a tall thin woman. Her short midnight-black hair framed a narrow face, which looked like it seldom smiled—if ever.

“Commander Uchida, this is Lieutenant Reese. The Captain has decided to rotate her to your gentle care.” He grinned. She glared at him.

“How many years has the Captain given me to qualify her?” She shook her head and turned to look directly at me. “You’re the Riss-human who has everyone distracted. Here you’re a Lieutenant in training. I don’t want anyone distracted. Do you understand?” Uchida waited for an answer.

“No, ma’am, I don’t. I’m what I am, and it’s difficult to hide it.” I pointed to my tattoo. “I can control what I do. I can’t control what others think or do.”

Uchida gave me a look colder than space.

“I’ll settle for that.” She pointed to a vacant chair. “Come, let’s get started. You graduated Hephaestus so you’ve had Navigational theory. Let’s see how much you remember and more importantly, understand.”

Inhabitable systems had an insertion point that enables a spaceship to travel from one point to another—like a river with multiple tributaries. Once inserted, you traveled faster than light. That calculation was easy, because the time between any two inhabitable systems was well documented. Unpredictable anomalies, however, could and did occur which affected the calculations. If not compensated, they could result in exiting in the right solar system, but weeks from the intended planet—or worse, in an uncharted system.

It would have been difficult working with a genius like Uchida if not for Thalia. The Commander reviewed three semester’s material in three weeks, which included multiple tests. I survived because of my third semester Navigational project at Hephaestus. There Thalia and I had begun to develop the Riss’ math using symbols. They approximated the pictures the Riss used to represent equations. We’d only just begun when the school term finished; however, we’d continued developing the system in our spare time. By now I’d begun to think in our new symbols, which we called Symath.

In the fourth week, Uchida began new material. “Now you’ll begin to work on real problems. At Hephaestus, you learned the theory and associated math. Computing the time to exit is easy when you’re given a specified anomaly. In the real universe anomalies aren’t predictable. You’re likely to encounter several during a fight that will require you to recalculate the exit time. We’ll take our time working up to realistic problems.”

I found bombs exploded slower than Uchida’s approach to navigational reality.

<This fun.>

<Then why do I have a headache?>

<Let me do math, little one.>

<I will, but I want to understand what you’re doing.>

<Riss formulas for wind speeds many conditions. Like through mountain pass. Expand Symath. Simplify navigation problems.>

On my free time, we loaded the navigational problems into my System Interface Device—SID—which provided me personal memory and limited access to the Peregrine’s computer. With the work we’d already done, creating additional symbols went quicker than I’d anticipated. I hardly slept during those weeks, as we expanded our database and verified the expanded Symath, using the computer.

* * * *

I continued to work out with the Wasps. The morning workouts invigorated rather than tired me. It wouldn’t have mattered; I liked working with Valk and his class. We’d grown close and the Wasps were friendlier since we’d returned from Saipha.

“Our group’s earned countless free drinks telling what happened on Saipha. You could get the whole battalion to volunteer to go with you if you needed to go again,” Terril said, when I questioned her about the friendlier attitude.

Several weeks later, Valk called me over.

“You’ve significantly improved over the months. I imagine if you used the speed I witnessed in Saipha you’d be hard to beat.”

“Speed would help, but I’d prefer the skill that comes with training and experience.”

“It takes years, but it’s worth the effort.” He paused and lowered his voice. “On a more serious note, rumor has it that someone means to do you serious harm.”

“Thanks, Gunny. I’m used to people hating me for no reason, but I do object to them trying to kill me.”

<Me too.>

* * * *

“Reese, today is your mid-term exam. I’ve set a problem into the computer, which will last two hours. You’ll encounter several anomalies. When you do, you’ll compute the necessary corrections. You’ve one hour to study your notes before you begin.”

I split the screen into four sections. One to display my personal area on the system; one to display the Symath I’d use for the calculations; a third to monitor the system running Uchida’s simulation; and the forth to post my solution to the problem.

I calculated the time to exit based on the initial parameters set by Uchida. When I entered those numbers, the simulation began. Nothing happed for the next hour. Then in the space of forty minutes three anomalies occurred. Shortly afterward, the clock stopped and the simulation ended. I closed all my windows and sat back, exhausted.

<Do you think I was wrong to use our Symath to do the calculations? I’d hate to fail this test. It could affect my rating for this rotation.>

<I checked calculation. Good.>

Uchida opened my file and reviewed my entries. Then she examined several other areas.

“Commander Riddler, come over here. I want a witness,” Uchida said while glaring at me. She portrayed little emotion when she worked with me, so the reaction startled me. Riddler walked over and nodded. “I prepared the problem set in file U87S6 for Reese to calculate. It ran for two hours. I placed my answer in an open area that Reese could read, if she chose. I placed a trap that anyone opening it would trip. In that case, the user name would be recorded.”

She paused and looked at me again, shaking her head. “I’ve reviewed her answers and they’re correct, but a review of the system files shows she didn’t use the system. The only possible conclusion is that she opened my file and used the information to enter her solution. I want a witness when I open the file. Lieutenant Reese, do you’ve anything to say before I open it?”

<Surprise.>

Thalia’s response caused me to give a small laugh, although I fought to suppress it.

“You think this is funny. This will result in you failing this rotation and a letter of reprimand in your record.”

“Yes, ma’am, it’s funny in a sad sort of way. I’m too tired of this to even get insulted. Open the file, please, and get it over with.” I waved to the monitor. Uchida scowled and opened the file. The trap revealed only Uchida’s initial entries.

“Ma’am, Sir, may I pleased be excused? I’ve got a headache.”

Chapter 16

When I entered the Bridge the next morning, Commander Uchida stood.

“I obviously owe you an apology; however, it had nothing to do with you being a Riss-human. I couldn’t care less. I would have suspected anyone under the similar circumstances. I still need to know what you did to come up with the answer.”

<Guess high-Riss ahead humans. Pity her.> Followed by a feeling of amusement.

Attempting to stifle a laugh, I produced a snort.

<Stop that!>

“Sorry, ma’am.”

“All right, I want to know what you consider funny—today and yesterday, when you knew I intended to have you reprimanded,” Uchida asked. She didn’t smile but produced a small shrug, indicating resignation and not anger.

<Curious.>

“Ma’am, the Captain has ordered me to stop including the Riss when I talk about myself, and indirectly, to pretend she doesn’t exist.” I wanted to scream. Everyone wanted me to pretend I wasn’t a Riss-human, but treated me like a pariah because I was.

“You can tell the Captain that I gave you permission, if he asks. It’s apparent that’s the only way I’m going to get any answers. First question, what was so funny?”

“Thalia, my Riss companion, made some comments that were funny under the circumstances. I couldn’t restrain a laugh, although I tried.”

Uchida stared at me.

I tried to explain. “Just before you opened the file yesterday, she said ‘Surprise.’”

“I guess that qualifies. So...Thalia is a completely unique, intelligent being in your mind. The two of you can converse and share thoughts?” Uchida’s eyes turned downward, as if thinking out loud rather than talking to me. “I presume this has something to do with the Navigation problem?”

“Yes, ma’am. The Riss have developed their own mathematical systems. Their algorithms for wind currents and dynamics parallel navigational computations. The Riss, however, have by necessity had to simplify their mathematics because they don’t have computers, paper, or pencils. The Riss must do the calculations in their mind. Thalia and I’ve been working on symbols to represent their system and equate it to the SAS system. The symbols help me to think in their terms, although I can’t work complex problems in my mind.”

“What? In...their minds with no other help? It currently takes the system’s computer to do the calculations. Will you show me what you and Thalia have been working on?”

<Riss want recognition, not secrets.>

“Thalia is happy to share her knowledge with you. What she knows, I know, and we, pardon ma’am, are part of the SAS.”

For several hours, Uchida and I went through the simpler symbols and the associated algorithms. She asked questions best explained by Thalia, which I merely relayed. After several hours, she shook her head and leaned back in her chair.

“My head’s spinning. Out of curiosity, although it doesn’t matter since...Thalia and you are one. Did she do your exam?”

“No, ma’am. I try to make sure I understand and apply what Thalia teaches me. I’m beginning to understand the Riss logic, but I can’t do the calculations in my mind, yet. It’s the reason for the symbols. Using those stored in my personal area, I did your test on my own, but Thalia did verify the results.”

Uchida laughed long and hard. It became obvious she didn’t laugh often, if at all, since the entire Bridge turned to look at her. The XO walked over.

“Having fun, Uchida?”

“Sure am, XO—I think I’m going to volunteer for the Riss-human program.”

Now the XO laughed.

The next several weeks were enjoyable, as Uchida relaxed somewhat in my presence. With me as a go-between, Uchida and Thalia discussed the symbols we’d developed, and corresponding algorithms. At Uchida’s request, I downloaded the Symath we’d developed for her to study. She also asked me to compute the parameters for each jump to compare to those generated by the system. She intended to use the results to evaluate the viability of the Riss system, although Thalia and I felt it needed more work before it could be considered a viable system. The final result would require rigorous trials before it would be recognized by the SAS. Uchida wanted to be part of its development and evaluation. I felt excited. It would do much towards recognizing the Riss’ potential as allies.

* * * *

“The rumors are that bitch is doing well in Navigation. If she weren’t, the Captain would have her cleaning latrines. He hates her a much as we do, but he can’t take any action unless she screws up,” Blackstone said as he sipped his Zulug kaffa, which contained a powerful stimulant produced from Zulug flowers and was illegal on any SAS ship. At the time, the mess hall was practically empty.

“Well, I don’t plan on waiting. Dirty face  owes me and I intend to collect.” Corporal Owin pounded the table, causing several of the Wasps, sitting several tables away, to look in his direction.

“Hard to sabotage her on the bridge,” Corporal Elson said. He followed Blackstone around like a little puppy, always ready to do his bidding—a Remora attached to a shark. Like a shark, Blackstone tolerated him. “Maybe we can catch her alone in the workout bay, when Valk isn’t around.”

“Won’t work. When she’s there, so are one or more of the Si’jin group. Valk wouldn’t only kick our ass but also put us on extra duty. Since their trip to Saipha, anyone in the Si’jin class would help her. I’m not even sure if one of the other troops wouldn’t. She seems to have made a lot of friends since Terril’s been exaggerating what happened on Saipha. The three of us could take her, but not if she has help.” Blackstone made a motion like choking someone.

“We need to catch her alone.” Owin smiled. “Maybe in her room. That would be fun.”

“Even if we could get in, it’s too small for us to surround her. We’d have to fight her one at a time. Not a good idea, hey Owin?”

“She got lucky.”

“You got lucky that Valk broke it up.” Blackstone laughed and raised a hand when Owin stood up. “Relax. She’s a disgusting animal. The SAS has created a monster that’ll eventually go rabid. There are a lot of senior officers, like the Captain, that would thank us if we get rid of her.”

“You mean kill her?” Elson whispered, his gaze darting from table to table. “I thought we’d just send her to the hospital with that dirt ripped off her face.”

Owin nodded agreement. Blackstone just shook his head.

“Are you two stupid? Unless we wear night gear and catch her alone in the dark, she’ll recognize us, and we’ll spend the rest of this tour in the brig and maybe hard time when it’s over. Besides, tell me where there’s a dark place on this ship? Even if we could  find a dark place, if any one of us got hurt, it wouldn’t be hard to identify us. Only the army wears night gear. They could narrow the search easily. No. If we’re going to get the bitch, we have to kill her.”

“Any ideas on how we accomplish that?” Owin asked.

“Maybe. Are you two in this with me?”

“Yes,” Owin and Elson said together, although Elson whispered.

* * * *

When I reported to the Bridge the next morning, Commander Riddler had the watch. Before I could get seated, Riddler caught my attention and walked over.

“Good morning, Reese. Captain Gebauer would like to see you. He’s in his conference room.”

<Think I’m in trouble again, Thalia?>

<Captain not friend. Wait see he remember fair.>

I stood in front of the Captain’s conference room door, needing Thalia to help calm me. Even if the Captain acted fair, he still hated me. I’d no doubt that given the opportunity, he’d strike like an asp. I knocked and waited.

“Come.” The Captain sat in the middle of the table with papers spread out around him. I closed the door, braced to attention and held a salute, waiting for him to return it. “Sit, Reese. There’s kaffa on the table, if you want.”

“No thank you, Sir.” The Captain looked up. He looked tired but calm.

<Disgust. Confused.>

<He’s disgusted that he can’t get rid of me, or confused as how to go about it.>

<Something else.>

“Reese, I’ve gotten Commander Uchida’s final evaluation. She believes you could, given time, be an assistant Navigator. From her that’s quite a compliment. I still believe you need to be rotated through the sections, if for different reasons than before.” He paused, watching me. “Before, I wanted you gone from my ship and the SAS. I believed the Riss-human project a mistake, which we would all regret. I thought it special treatment that the SAS had promoted a graduate of Prometheus to Lieutenant. I didn’t even like the idea of you being an officer or on a spaceship. I’ve read your file and contract since we last talked. Something I should have done before you reported. It may not have affected my opinion, but I would have been better informed. I didn’t realize they enrolled you in Hephaestus, and you graduated With Comment. To my amazement, you’ve done well in Shuttle Maintenance, Environmental, and Navigation. The problem still remains that you’re a highly controversial...individual.” He paused and took a sip of kaffa.

<Read our file. Not change mind. More cautious.>

<I’ll settle for that.>

“You’re going to be on the Peregrine for, at least, two years. To minimize potential problems, it’s important that people relate to you as a person, not a...Riss-human. No one is liked by everyone—except me.” He grinned.

<Think make joke.>

“I don’t have the authority to assign anyone to the Intelligence unit, even though it’s on my ship. Their chain of command’s different and their assignments are made out of the SAS Office of Security. A special college, Dionysus, is dedicated to intelligence training. That keeps their identity secret; however, Commander Wang has asked for you to be assigned to her. She has agreed it’s only temporary and to be considered as one of your rotations. Under those conditions, I’ve agreed.” He paused. When he didn’t continue, I assumed he was waiting for me to comment. I gave the most logical and safe answer.

“Yes, Sir.”

“You’ll report to her tomorrow. Her unit is located on level two, corridor six.”

I’d wondered about corridor six. It was a restricted area guarded by Special Security personal in non-standard navy uniforms. “Since this is considered one of your normal rotations, she’ll provide a standard evaluation when the rotation is over.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“You’re dismissed,” Gebauer said and went back to his reading. I stood, braced to attention, and saluted. I didn’t wait for it to be returned. He wasn’t paying attention. As I closed the door, Riddler joined me.

“Any problems, Reese?”

“No, Sir. I’m being rotated to the Intelligence Unit.”

“Intelligence. That’s unusual, but then again you’re...unique. You did well here. Keep up the good work.” He turned and walked back to the bridge. I’d miss the bridge. To me it’s a magical place. I said goodbye to Uchida, who wanted to continue working with Thalia and me on Symath. I saw that as an advantage. She was brilliant, and another person on the list of people who didn’t hate me and maybe even liked me.

Chapter 17

The next morning after a quick breakfast, I strolled down corridor six, not sure if this transfer constituted a good thing a not. I had no intelligence experience, even theoretical, as neither Prometheus nor Hephaestus covered the Intelligence functions. When I reached the guards, one watched as the other reached out his hand.

“Ma’am, your ID.” He scanned it and stepped aside for me to pass.

<I guess they need two because the one who held out his hand for my ID had his hand too far from his gun.>

<Looks like fun.>

I chuckled. Everything looked like fun to Thalia, even a confrontation with the Captain. The door had a large sign with large letters that read: “Stop. Authorized Persons Only.” I opened it and entered a room full of people and equipment. In a way, it resembled the bridge, except there was no view of the outside universe. Each monitor appeared active, some with pictures and others with scrolling script. As I looked around, a tall, good-looking Lieutenant swaggered over to me.

“Are you trying to spy on us, alien? This is a restricted area.”

<How does he think this alien got by the guards?>

<Pissing on tree.>

I smiled again. I needed to develop better control of my face muscles. Thalia had loved reading about the animals on the various colonies. She thought the practice of animals marking their territory amusing.

“Something funny, Lieutenant?”

“I’m here to see Commander Wang.”

“On what business?”

“I’m being assigned here.”

He walked over to one of the doors and knocked, and after a minute entered. With the door open, I heard the exchange.

“There is an...alien...Lieutenant outside. She says she’s been assigned to this unit.”

“Yes, Hendrix. Thank you.” It was a clear dismissal. I entered, closing the door behind me. I braced to attention and saluted.

“Lieutenant Reese reporting for duty, ma’am.”

“Fine, Reese. Now sit and we’ll talk.” She waved towards an empty chair. “Do you know why I asked for you to be assigned to me?”

<Because high-Riss.>

“No, ma’am. I assume it has something to do with me being a Riss-human.”

Wang looked at me, and a slight smile appeared on her face. As if she had made a decision, she nodded. “We’ve been watching you through your years at Prometheus and Hephaestus, your assignments in Shuttle Repair, Environmental, and Navigation, and your trip to Saipha. We’re also monitoring the other nine Riss project volunteers. Four have already rejected their parasite—”

“I’m sorry, ma’am, but that’s incorrect.” I almost put my hand over my mouth. I didn’t mean to blurt that out, but her statement wasn’t accurate. If they’re watching, they should get it right.

“Which part, Reese?”

“Two of the rejections were initiated by the Riss.”

“The two you delivered to Saipha? Can you explain how you know and why the Riss rejected them?” Wang leaned forward. “Would you like something to drink?”

I realized this would be a long introduction and an important one for the Riss. This discussion would be my real evaluation. “Yes, ma’am, kaffa please.”

Wang crossed to a side table and poured two cups. She handed one to me before sitting.

“Thank you, ma’am.” I went on to explain the circumstances resulting in Aldric and Egon being returned to Saipha.

“You know this how? I understand the two Lieutenants didn’t talk during the trip. Did they talk to you in private?”

“No, ma’am. The Riss talk mind-to-mind in streaming vid. They told me when I visited them in custody.” I would have thought the SAS already knew this.

“You mean pictures. That would seem slow.”

“No, I mean streaming vid like watching a vidcast. There is no ambiguity as exists using words, and it’s impossible to lie. Lies distort the vid.”

Wang cup stopped half way to her mouth.

“Like a...play reenacting what had happened?”

“That’s a good analogy. The real point is that it isn’t words or pictures of words or even single pictures one at a time.”

“I would have surmised that the Riss would stay so long as their human host remained functional. They could control their hosts.” Wang froze while she waited my response. As if the slightest movement might disrupt me from answering.

<Yes. Worry we control you like Gorillai.>

“Commander, the last thing any Riss wants is a human host.” I went on to explain that’s the first step for them in a long journey to join the SAS in their natural hosts. Wang laughed until tears ran down her face.

“In thirty minutes, you’ve stood all our theories on their collective heads. Why are you telling me these secrets?” Wang asked.

“They’re not secrets. Humans have made assumptions based upon their prejudices and fears.” I pointed to my cheek. “If the Riss had told you this in the beginning, would you’ve believed them? Will you believe me now?”

“You refer to humans like they’re separate from you, like you’re a Riss talking,” Wang said, now serious.

“Commander, I’m several things. I’m a human, a human with an intelligent mind inside mine, and to the high-Riss a sister. I stand in two worlds. I share our dreams and theirs.”

Wang and I spent the next several hours discussing the world of the Riss; my integration with the Riss; and the problems I’d encountered as a Riss-human. Wang asked question after question. Each question generated ten more. Finally she shook her head.

“I’ve just learned more from you and...Thalia…than SAS security hoped to learn over the next five to ten years. I’d wondered whether inviting you into a secret operation constituted letting a...Saipha snowcat lose in a wisent herd, but I’m pleased with my decision.” She went on to explain Lieutenant Hendrix outranked me but wasn’t my supervisor. I reported directly to her. Petty Officers Jack Phalan and Sue Wunk currently tracked the Riss-humans as well as trying to find information about the pirates operating in this area. They would be assigned to me.

“Ma’am, I believe the men who attacked us on Saipha were raiders. They weren’t locals; therefore, they had to have been dropped off, and picked up at a later date.”

“I’ll put you in charge of determining who dropped them off.”

“The Compton.”

“What?”

“I talked to Master Sergeant Wilson at the garrison on Saipha. Only two ships visited during the two weeks prior to the incident. I asked him to let Colonel Quentin know the names of any ships that visited during the following two weeks. He recently contacted Colonel Quentin. Only the Compton returned.”

“You don’t happen to know where the raiders’ home base is located, do you?” She shook her head. “I’ll leave it to you to track the Compton and anything else you think of.”

* * * *

Wang informed me that they ran three shifts. Lieutenant Hendrix generally took the first shift. The second and third shifts where minimally manned. Master Chief Arnet was the resident technical genius and worked part time during the other two shifts, unless needed on first shift.

“Can I move Phalan and Wunk to either shift two or three?” I asked.

“They work for you.”

* * * *

Lieutenant Hendrix waited for me as I left Wang’s office. “Well, Reese, are you ready to start work? I’ll give you the tour.”

The tour included stopping at each station, meeting the person, and getting a brief description of his or her duties. Mostly they tracked incoming communications and scanned for key words or phases. Senior staff then looked for connections between the various data. When Hendrix finished, he gave me a predatory smile.

“I’ll want you to work first shift with me, so I can keep an eye on you. After all, you are an alien and this unit handles very sensitive information.”

“I thank you for the tour, Lieutenant Hendrix. It was very informative.” I turned and walked over to Phalan and Wunk’s stations.

“After shift, I’d like to see you both for a few minutes. We’ll meet in the conference room if no one’s using it.” I noticed Master Chief Arnet standing off to one side. I sensed he was amused, although he stood there expressionless.

“Lieutenant, these people work for me, not you. You’re not to go near these individuals. They’re tracking you. I don’t want you compromising their work or trying to intimidate them into changing information about you. You’ll remember that I’m senior to you, and you report to me.” He sneered with the last remark.

“Master Chief, I’d appreciate you joining us if it’s convenient. Lieutenant Hendrix, Commander Wang did  tell me you were the senior Lieutenant. It’s certainly not my place to tell you your duties. Perhaps there has been a misunderstanding about my duties. I suggest you and I talk to Commander Wang. She told me that I report to her and that Petty Officers Phalan and Wunk are assigned to me.”

<You hurt feeling, little one.>

<I don’t like making enemies, but I don’t think he’d ever like us and would take every opportunity to make our lives hell.>

<Once you grovel.>

I felt her laugh and satisfaction.

* * * *

After the shift ended, Arnet joined Phalan and Wunk in the conference room. I had managed to get kaffa brought into the room to make the meeting less formal. Petty Officer First Class Phalan was a short, plump man in his middle years with ribbons to indicate he had been in service for many years. His face was round and his hair receding. Petty Officer Second Class Wunk was a tall woman in her late twenties, black hair, straight nose, high cheekbones, and a narrow face. She was one rank lower than Phalan and had fewer years in service. Neither had combat experience, judging by their service ribbons. Master Chief Petty Officer Arnet stood taller than Wunk, had a rugged-looking square face, stocky build, and close-cut graying hair. Arnet had ribbons indicating he had combat experience.

“I’m Lieutenant Reese, a Riss-human, if you didn’t already know.” I smiled, pointing to my cheek. “If you’ve any questions now or in the future, I don’t mind answering them rather than let your imagination or rumors form your opinions. I promise I don’t bite or morph into anything.” I waited for questions. When there were none, I continued.

“Which shift would you two prefer, second or third? I’ve much to learn and those shifts will have the fewest interruptions.”

Phalan and Wunk decided on third shift.

“First you’re to continue tracking me and the Riss. Your reports will go directly to Commander Wang, not me. I already know what I do each day.” That got smiles. I went on to explain that they were to concentrate on the Compton. I wanted them to examine its previous stops to determine if there existed any correlation to raids on SAS colonies. After the two left, I turned to Arnet.

“If you don’t mind, Master Chief, I’d like to be taught how the equipment works.”

“Yes, ma’am. I’ve been expecting that. I talked to Rucker and Nesstor.” He held out a piece of paper.

* * * *

“She’s being moved to the Intelligence unit,” Elson whispered to Blackstone.

“There’s nobody else in the room, except Owin. Why are you whispering?” Blackstone waved his hand at the six bunks.

Elson’s face turned red. He looked at the floor.

“That’s actually good news.”

“Why? The intelligence unit’s harder to infiltrate than the bridge. They have a separate hallway and two guards always on duty.” Owin shook his head while pacing the floor. “Damn bitch is harder to get at than the Captain.”

“Think, Owin! This is perfect. We aren’t trying to attack her any place public. We’re looking for a quiet place where she’s alone.” Blackstone sat back in his chair and grinned. “Consider the hallway to the Intelligence unit. It has limited access and the two guards aren’t going to leave their post. They’ll call security. All we have to do is catch her leaving when the hallway’s empty. It’s not uncommon for her to work odd hours.”

Owin wasn’t convinced. “We want little miss dirty face to have an accident—a fatal one—but we have several problems. How do we know when she’ll be in that hallway alone? How do we avoid security detail that the guards are sure to call? And, how do we kill her without being hurt and subsequently identified?”

“Those are excellent questions, Owin. If we each chip in a hundred credits, I think that I can solve all three problems.”

Owin and Elson nodded.

Chapter 18

I enjoyed my time with Arnet. He spent hours each night showing me how to take apart and repair the various units. Inside the machines were mostly throwaway boards with thousands of chips. To fix a given machine, the trick was to know which board produced the problem. He explained they collected information from the Comrelay stations in each solar system with an SAS colony. These stations sorted communications and directed them by FTL speeds to the next appropriate station, colony, or spaceship in the system. In theory, the stations’ messages were secure. In fact, the station produced a copy, which it subsequently forwarded to SAS intelligence and authorized spaceships—like the Peregrine.

The Peregrine routinely stripped each Comrelay it passed. This allowed them to scan all incoming and outgoing messages. One of Commander Wang’s responsibilities was to track the Riss-humans and any information pertaining to them.

Now the Compton  had become a priority. Two weeks of searching revealed what I’d already suspected. The Compton had stopped at Saipha and Corona a month prior to the raids. Although we continued to track the Compton, neither Thalia nor I could determine a discernable pattern. The ship visited colonies apparently at random with unexplained gaps inconsistent with transit time between those planets.

Although I tried to limit my contact with Lieutenant Hendrix, I couldn’t avoid him completely. My regular visits with Commander Wang took place on first shift, when Hendrix worked. He used every opportunity to taunt me, trying to convince the others that I couldn’t be trusted and posed a threat to security.

“Well, Reese, what are you hiding on the night shift that you don’t want the rest of us to know about, or are you too good to associate with the rest of us? I’ll bet you aren’t telling the Commander everything you find on your alien friends.” Each time he sneered and moved back, giving the impression he thought me contagious. Childish, but effective in causing doubt and suspicion.

<Another fool to humor.> I felt a smile.

<You’re right. I’ll look the fool if I let him bait me. There’s no answer I can give that he can’t turn against me.>

“Good morning, Lieutenant Hendrix. I’m glad to see you’re in good spirits,” I said as I continued walking towards Wang’s door, knocked, and entered. I could see his eyes narrow and his lips tighten in anger or perhaps frustration.

<That proved fun. I hope it ruined his day.>

<You succeeded. He mad.> As usual her laugh relieved the tension.

On the way out, it was more of the same.

“I hear you’re learning to repair the equipment. It’s probably all you’re fit to do. Some day the Riss is going to take control of you and betray us all. I know the Captain feels the same as I do.”

<He angry, wants fight.>

<I don’t understand why we antagonize everyone.>

<Only the fools.>

“I don’t claim to know what the Captain thinks, Lieutenant Hendrix. Nor do I believe it’s any of my business, but I appreciate you sharing your opinion of me. If you excuse me, it has been a long night, and I’m tired.” I continued walking out the exit into the hallway, leaving Hendrix with his mouth open.

<That fun. Do again soon.>

<Is there anything you don’t find amusing?>

<Not yet, little one.>

I hoped I’d never encounter a situation Thalia didn’t find amusing.

* * * *

“Lieutenant Reese, I think we might have found what you’re looking for. The Compton stopped at Tamerland last week. The colony is quite wealthy from the sale of software and hardware. They sell their technology to the highest bidder and make a profit by loading it with traps to guarantee only they can fix it. They’ve developed a new anti-missile, which they claim is twice as effective as the current version. The navy has signed an exclusive contract with them for the missiles. They’re picking up five hundred four weeks from today.”

“I assume Tamerland has an effective defense system,” I said, wondering how the raiders were going to steal the missiles.

“Yes, ma’am.” Wunk sounded deflated. A few minutes ago she’d been bubbling with energy.

“Wunk, you and Phalan have done well. I think you may have found what we’re looking for.”

“But their defense system is one of the best.”

I waved Arnet over and explained what Wunk and Phalan had found. I wanted his opinion as to whether or not he thought it possible to either penetrate their defense system or use some other method to steal the missiles.

“Ma’am, the SAS will probably send a Heavy cruiser and maybe even an escort. Nothing raiders would want to tangle with. Consequently, it’ll be extremely difficult to steal the cargo after it’s been picked up.” Arnet stroked his chin. “If they could somehow obtain the system codes, they could disable their defenses. Then it would be easy.”

“Maybe they don’t need them, Master Chief. What if they dropped off a team of raiders, like on Saipha, to sabotage the system?” I wondered out loud. Arnet nodded. I didn’t wait for further discussion. Using her personal code, I called Commander Wang on my SID.

“Reese, it’s very early in the morning. I hope you rousted me out of bed without breakfast for a good reason. A very good reason.”

“Yes, ma’am. I think so.” I went on to explain what Wunk and Phalan had found, the potential of it as a target, and how I thought the raiders could attack Tamerland.

“You want me to go to the Captain on a hunch?” Wang went silent. “Master Chief, what do you think?”

“I think it’s the best lead we’ve had. It doesn’t sound feasible on the surface; however, we have more to lose if it is than if it isn’t.”

“Chief, maybe you can get us a direct line to the raiders, so we can find out what they’re planning. All this guessing is nerve-racking.” Wang shook her head. “All right, I’ll go to the Captain, but I’m going to wait until he wakes up and has had his breakfast.”

* * * *

Wang and I stood at ease in front of Gebauer’s desk. I was relieved that Wang had presented my theory. Otherwise, I think the Captain would’ve dismissed it without thought. Being fair didn’t include agreeing with me.

“Commander, have a seat. You too, Reese. Let’s see if I understand this. You believe the raiders are going to penetrate Tamerland’s high-tech security system and steal the new missiles. Then exit the same security without being blown to oblivion?”

“It’s feasible but easy to dismiss. Lieutenant Reese’s group has been tracking the Compton, since it left Saipha. It was the only ship to visit both Saipha and Corona prior to the raids. They’ve been watching the Compton because we believe it’s looking for high-value targets. Tamerland certainly qualifies. Using their method of penetrating Saipha, the Compton could have dropped a team when they visited several weeks ago. A team assigned to take control of the security system or destroy it,” Wang said.

“It’s still conjecture. A highly improbable one...” Gebauer paused. “Based on this theory, you want me to deviate from my schedule and delay delivering needed supplies and equipment to the Zulug and Backdoor colonies?”

I wondered if the Captain’s reluctance resulted from my involvement or the low probability. I’d warned Wang not to take me along.

“Captain, it’s conjecture. The probability’s low, because of the complexity of the operation, and the Peregrine’s delay may have an adverse impact on one or more of those colonies. Conversely, the information we’ve collected fits what we know of the raider’s previous actions. To date our encounters with the raiders have been hit or miss, and we’ve consistently missed. This is the first plausible information we’ve obtained that may give us a chance to intercept them. As Chiefs tend to do, Master Chief Arnet summed it up well. He said, ‘if we deviate and are wrong, we lose little; if we don’t and they do attack, we lose a lot.’“

Gebauer sat silent for what seemed like hours; his gaze slid back and forth between Wang and me.

“Commander, you’ve put me between two Heavy cruisers. If I go and they don’t show, I’ll look the fool. If I don’t go and they do attack, I’ll be considered a fool. In either case, they’ll probably retire me.” He shook his head. “I would rather be retired for being foolish than being a fool.” Gebauer reached over and activated his comm to the bridge. “XO, set a course to Tamerland. Commander Wang, if we go to battle stations, have the seamen qualified in other specialties report to the appropriate section. Lieutenant Reese, you’re to report to Commander Uchida. Dismissed.”

* * * *

Wang was solemn once we’d left Gebauer. “Well, Reese, I’m afraid I’ve put you in a tenuous position. You’re right to bring this to my attention; I was right to bring it to the Captain’s attention; and he was right to divert the Peregrine to Tamerland. If the raiders don’t attack, he’s going to blame you.” She placed her hand on my shoulder. “I’m sorry.”

<Captain idea fair. Things go well do job. Things go wrong blame you. Not matter. high-Riss do right regardless others think.> My smile appeared.

“I guess Thalia’s talking to you, since there’s little to smile about.”

“Yes, ma’am. She agrees with you. Thalia and I would blame ourselves if we didn’t report our finding to you. We can’t anticipate the Captain’s reaction. He’s responsible for the Peregrine, not us.”

* * * *

Thanks to Lieutenant Hendrix, half the crew knew it was my idea. He made it a point to go out of his way to make some stupid comment or another.

<Glad he not host me. Space self.>

<I don’t worry about the ship’s company laughing at me. It’s you I worry about.>

<Not worry. Riss patient. Right or wrong, Hendrix fool.>

Everywhere I went people smiled or snickered behind my back. Hendrix’s determination to make me look foolish made the voyage stretch into what seemed like years. Unfortunately no one could do anything to stop him gossiping. I suspect many were delighted to see him humiliate me.

<Laugh last. Laugh best.>

<I’m not sure anymore. If half the ship’s company look foolish, will they be mad at Hendrix, themselves, or me?>

<Little of each.>

The only place I received some peace was in the Wasps’ training area. A few snickered behind my back, but most seemed excited at the possibility of action.

“Everyone has his or her fingers crossed, Reese. We train for combat, but mostly we sit and wait. After our adventure on Saipha, everyone’s hoping you’re our lucky charm.” Terril gave me a “thumbs up” sign.

* * * *

“All personnel report to your battle stations. We’ll be entering Tamerland space in two hours.”

The Captain appeared to be taking no chances with what we may encounter when we dropped out of the Wave. I reported to the bridge and took the seat next to Uchida. As we entered Tamerland space, the Captain immediately cut all power except for emergency systems. When no challenge or query came, I assumed our entry had either gone undetected or Tamerland security waited to see our intention. When nothing happened, the crew was released from battle stations and the Peregrine went into waiting mode. No one could predict exactly when or if the raiders would attack; however, they only had a five-day window of opportunity. On day six, the Heavy cruiser, Bateleur, was scheduled to arrive. Consequently, the raiders would have to arrive within the next two or three days.

* * * *

The tension on the Peregrine escalated every hour as people waited for the call to battle stations. People still gave me strange looks, but they no longer laughed. With the exception of Hendrix, who kept up his barrage of insults, it appeared the idea of going to Tamerland and being there was different. He didn’t seem to understand the difference, probably because he had no assigned battle station.

<Probably thinks raiders in shuttles. Safe even if he wrong.>

<Think? Hendrix?>

Thalia’s laugh rang like glass chimes.

“BATTLE STATIONS!” blared through the Peregrine’s loud speakers and individual SIDs. I exited the Intelligence unit at a run, heading for the bridge. By the time I arrived, everyone was at his or her station. Without saying anything, Uchida pointed to the adjacent seat.

“You’re to duplicate my calculations using Symath. I’ll split my screen into quadrants. Use the two on the left, the solution on top.”

“What’s the status, XO?” Gebauer said, scanning the overhead monitors.

“Two cruisers just dropped out of the Wave. They’re on a course for Tamerland,” As he said it, a three-dimensional hologram sprung to life in the center of the bridge. “We have them designated H1 and L1 on the TAC.” He was talking about the Tactical Array Center.

“Can you identify the cruisers and their type?”

“They don’t match anything we have in our database. One appears the size of our Defender class cruisers; the other looks like a War class Heavy cruiser.” Lieutenant Commander Simms, on radar, shook her head while staring at her screen.

“Full power, Helm.”

“Going to full power,” Willman replied.

“Navigation, plot an intercept with L1.”

“Helm, intercept course with unknown cruiser L1 on your board.” As Uchida spoke, the intercepting vector appeared on the Willman’s overhead monitor and as a red line in the TAC.

“Radar, are you sure they aren’t from the UFN or the JPU?” The United Free Nations and the Johaba People’s Union had to be excluded.

“Not unless they have new ships we don’t know about.”

“Tactical, your primary target has got to be the L1, although we can’t ignore the H1. Set up a four-two firing solution.”

“Based upon Intel’s assessment from our previous encounters with the raiders, the Heavies’ missiles have a two point five light-second powered range whereas we have two point four. At our present closing speeds, it will take us an additional seventeen seconds to close one light-second,” Commander Kollar said.

“What about L1?” Gebauer asked.

“Their Lights only have a powered range of two point two light-seconds. Therefore, it will take L1 an additional thirty-four seconds to close their two-second gap.”

“Tactical, give me a regular update until we’re within firing range. We can’t stop the heavy; however, if we can damage the light, they may choose to leave. If not, it may give Tamerland time to bring their security systems on line.” Gebauer sat back, appearing at ease.

As the minutes ticked by, the bridge appeared suspended in time. A deathly silence prevailed. Everyone knew it would be bad. A Light cruiser was no match for a Heavy cruiser and less than no match when the Heavy was accompanied by a Light. The Captain could do nothing except play for time, hoping Tamerland recovered before it was too late.

“Thirty minutes to firing.”

“Twenty.”

“Ten.

“Captain, all six tubes loaded and ready,” Kollar reported.

“Ten H1 missiles incoming, time to impact one hundred seconds,” Commander Baats said, as the missiles appeared on the overhead Electronic Counter Measures —ECM—monitor.

“Continuous fire as tubes become ready,” Gebauer said. Seconds later the ship shook and Radar’s monitor showed six missiles had launched.

“Time to impact one hundred seconds.”

“Six incoming from L1,” Baats announced. “Time to impact, one hundred ten seconds.”

No one knew what to expect from the raider’s ships—speed or armament. The Peregrine had six missile tubes and could load and fire every sixty seconds. It now appeared H1 had ten and L1 six missile tubes, and H1 could fire ever sixty and L1 every seventy-five seconds. When I looked up, the monitors showed thirty-two incoming missiles.

I stopped breathing. I couldn’t imagine what would happen when they hit. Everyone sounded calm—I wasn’t.

<Relax, little one. No sense worry. Change nothing. Cloud mind. Need clear.>

The Peregrine shuddered.

“Damage report.” Gebauer watched as Commander Stowa’s monitor displayed the incoming reports from the affected sections. I tried to watch all the monitors but events were occurring too fast.

Baats’s hands blurred as they flew across the ECM board. Anti-missiles, chaff, and laser fire reached out to destroy and divert the incoming destruction. Baats appeared to be diverting or stopping ninety percent of the incoming missiles, which meant the Peregrine was being battered once or twice every minute. Battle-metal limited the damage but every couple of minutes one ripped through the ship’s skin, blowing apart compartments, killing and maiming crew, and degrading operational effectiveness. I knew the destruction would accelerate as the Battle-metal weakened.

“Shuttle bay 21 open to space, ten dead and five wounded; Environment unit equipment no longer functional, six dead and eight wounded; Striker bays 25 and 26 destroyed along with part of navy crew’s quarters, twenty-three dead and fourteen wounded; missile storage damaged along with forty missiles…” Stowa reported as the list of damage and deaths continued to mount. At his rate it wouldn’t be long before the Peregrine would be a piece of junk drifting through space.

The Peregrine missiles were scoring with better accuracy. Kollar had scored over twenty hits on L1. It had moderate damage but was still functional. Although H1 had been hit, it showed little significant damage.

“Navigation, set us up for a micro skip closer to the L1. We need to destroy or disable it and hope Tamerland can stop the Heavy. We can’t.”

I had to admire the Captain. He’d been courageous to go to Tamerland on a hunch, and he certainly was no coward. He had to know that we wouldn’t survive the encounter, yet he fought on.

<We skip close. Skip away after destroy.>

<How close.>

<Close you want. Need vectors. Speeds.>

“Ma’am, Thalia can micro-skip us as close as you want,” I whispered. “We could fire and skip before they could return fire.”

“Captain, how close do you want to be?”

“Close as we can get. Thousand kilometers.” Uchida looked to me.

<One.>

“One kilometer.”

“One kilometer, Captain.”

Gebauer turned towards Uchida and shook his head. “Can’t be done.”

Uchida looked at me.

“Thalia will need both our vectors and acceleration, sixty seconds before we want to jump.”

“What do we have to lose by trying?” Uchida asked no one in particular. Gebauer looked at her and then me. He started to say something then stopped. He looked tired.

I went on to explain what would happen. Sixty seconds before the anticipated jump, Commander Simms would feed me L1 and the Peregrine’s speeds and vectors. Commander Kollar would set in a firing solution to execute immediately when we came out of the jump. She would have ten seconds to fire the three remaining missile tubes and engage with the fifty-centimeter lasers. Ten seconds later, Helm would execute the coordinates for the second micro skip out of range of the Heavy. I doubted the Light or the Heavy could react that quickly.

The Captain nodded. A minute later Simms had the information. She transferred the vectors and accelerations to my screen and the sixty-second clock started. Everyone watched as the clock ticked down. I watched Thalia manipulate the Symath. With fifteen seconds remaining, I transferred Thalia’s vector and timing to the helm’s board—a four-second jump. The XO began the count while Thalia worked on the second jump.

“Twelve, eleven…”

The Peregrine could only micro-skip for a total of eight seconds at the best of times without damaging the fusion engines. These weren’t the best of times. Number two engine was inoperative; number one and three were hovering around half-power. Engineering estimated micro-jumps totaling six seconds might be possible. Best-case scenario, the Peregrine engines would be left with enough power to limp to Tamerland; worse case, it would destroy the remaining two engines.

At seven seconds, I transferred Thalia’s second vector to Willman—a one second skip.

“Five, four, three, two, one…”

“May God be with us, jump!” Gebauer stared his display. I watched as the bridge and the people turned to transparent ghosts. A shiver went through me, and it was over.

“My God!” Kollar shouted. “Missiles away, Lasers fired.”

“Jump!” the Captain ordered. Again that eerie shiver and things returned to normal.

“Radar, what’s the status of L1?”

“There are multiple explosions and debris flying everywhere.” A loud cheer went up with the news.

“Quiet, there’s still a Heavy out there.” Gebauer stared at the TAC for a minute. “Engineering. What’s our status?”

“Number One and Two completely destroyed. Number three is barely functional, ten percent at best.”

“Navigation, plot us an intercept vector to H1.” Gebauer sat back with no further comment. The bridge lapsed into silence. We weren’t in condition to fight with a Striker. Uchida transferred the vector to Willman, and Riddler gave the order to execute. The seconds ticked away, as we waited the inevitable.

“H1 is heading for the Wave, Sir,” Simma almost shouted. No one said anything, but there was a collective sigh of relief.

“Makes sense. He probably decided his window of opportunity had passed. Comm, contact Tamerland. As soon as they’ve control back, we’d like a vector to their repair station.”

Chapter 19

The Puff Adder and the Compton floated several hundred kilometers apart in a White Dwarf system devoid of life. It was the designated rendezvous area for the Baptiste Clan in the Tragos sector of the SAS. The Puff Adder  had been there for two weeks waiting on the Compton, and Captain Anton Ja’Tuva’s emotional temperature rose with every passing hour. By the time the Compton arrived, he wanted blood. He didn’t care whose, although Angela Ja’Oyrat was his preferred target. He paced his conference room, waiting for the shuttle to deliver his prey. When the door opened and the two Ja’Oyrat entered, he pointed a finger at them and shouted.

“You led us into a trap, you and your bitch of a granddaughter. We lost the Sidewinder  and all its crew because of her incompetence. I want her to pay. I want her killed!”

Rares ignored Anton and took a chair at the side of the conference table, conceding the chair at the head of the table to Anton. Angela sat next to Rares closest to Anton’s chair. He glared at her. After a few minutes, he stomped over to the table and sat.

“You bitch. Nearly four hundred Clan members are dead because of you. I won’t rest until I see Clan justice!” He slammed his fist on the table after every word. Angela watched Anton with a slight smile; one reserved for a child having a temper-tantrum.

“Yes, Anton. Clan justice would be appropriate. You could explain how a Heavy and a Light cruiser could be driven out of a system by an SAS Light cruiser. First the Sidewinder destroys a lightly-armed merchant ship, and now an SAS Light cruiser forces you to abort the mission. Oh, I forgot to mention you lost the Sidewinder,” Rares said in a normal voice. Anton sat speechless for a minute. “Yes, Anton, I’ll call for Clan justice and let the elders decide.”

“Damn you, Rares.”

“In my opinion, what we have is a series of unfortunate coincidences. I learned the two Riss-humans would be turned over to the army garrison for delivery to the Riss nation. My source didn’t know that another Riss-human was aboard the Peregrine or that she would deliver the Riss-humans. They sent Wasps with her because she was a member of the Peregrine. The escort went armed because she’s, at least in theory, a Riss.” Angela paused, looking at Anton with her head cocked to one side. “Your men didn’t give themselves away. They didn’t know circumstances had changed.”

“What about Tamerland?” Anton asked, frowning.

“Because the Peregrine had its engines on idle, we have to assume they were there as extra security. That was an important shipment for SAS. Again, no one on Tamerland would have had access to that information. They certainly didn’t expect a Heavy cruiser or they wouldn’t have sent a Light. They were being cautious. The Peregrine’s micro-skip sounds like a miscalculation with unfortunate consequences,” Angela said. Rares nodded agreement. Anton continued to watch Angela for a long time before nodding.

“That does seem to be the logical explanation and fits the facts as we know them. Given we assume that’s what happened, what’s next?”

“I think that’s what happened; however, the alternative is that both teams were somehow compromised. If so, the SAS had time to adjust their plans, that is, the Wasps and the Peregrine. We should be safe and assume that either could have happened. I would suggest we avoid any target that involves putting people on the ground,” Angela replied.

“If we aren’t careful, they could figure out that the Compton is involved. In that case, your source of information will be neutralized—not to mention Angela and me.” Rares scanned the room while waiting for Anton to speak. Ten fawn-colored-leather chairs complimented the onyx marble-like tabletop. The light-tan wood paneling gave the room an appearance of being in a groundside office.

Finally, Anton rose and walked to the other end of the room. He collected three crystal glasses and a decanter of wine, and gave Rares and Angela each a glass. After filling his glass, he passed the bottle down the table. Angela took Rare’s glass and filled it before filling her own.

“The Light cruisers Cobra and SeaSnake will be joining you five days from now. The Elders have decided that we should get more aggressive in our target selection and with the SAS Navy. They are, therefore, providing you with additional cruisers. Angela and I will continue to identify targets for you.”

“To Clan Baptiste and a change in our luck.”

“To Clan Baptiste,” Rares and Angela echoed. Angela took out her handheld and studied it for a few minutes, while sipping her wine.

“This is good wine, Anton. How would you like a whole ship-full?” She had a smile a man would kill for. It made her look like a goddess and made you feel like she was yours alone, which explained how she discovered the secrets she did. Even after you knew her, it still was hard to shake the feeling. In reality, Angela belonged to no one.

“I assume you’d like a case for yourself?” Anton quipped. Angela dipped her head in response. She checked her handheld again, increasing the suspense.

“And the ship, please.” She giggled like a little girl asking for candy. “The merchant ship Farsee stops at Lingwood every six months to pick up a load of their famous Ling Wine Reserve. They stop for three to four days each time, staying for Lingwood’s semi-annual celebration. Their six months pickup is due in twenty-five to thirty days. If you would wait for them to arrive, you could catch them docked at Lingwood’s orbiting station. Their security is minimal and could easily be destroyed. That would open the planet to you for the picking.”

“A new merchant ship, fine wine, and slaves would be worth the effort, Angela. How reliable is their schedule?” Anton stroked the black, curly beard around his chin. He thought it logical that security would be minimal, since Lingwood wouldn’t be considered a prime target. Only the merchant’s ship made it lucrative.

“Give or take a week, they’re very reliable. The Farsee  is relatively new. It should be worth sixty million credits and the wine another five million. Please don’t damage the barrels. The slaves could be worth an additional several million, depending on what you find.”

“Slaves bring a good price in the JPU. I could send one of the cruisers there if the haul’s worthwhile.” Usually it was easier to give the crew time to loot and have fun rather than collect slaves. “Well, that’s a decision for later. Anything else?”

“Lords Landing,” Angela said and paused.

“The whole planet isn’t worth the fuel to fly there.” Anton laughed. He knew Angela was baiting him, but he couldn’t imagine what could be worth the effort of going there. A group wanting a religious state had inhabited it about seventy-five years ago. Of course, the religion had to be consistent with their beliefs. That lasted about fifty years, until the religion split into two sects. They’d been at war ever since.

“The followers of Bedwyr have ordered a ship full of weapons from Tamerland. The shipment is due in ninety days. It’ll be delivered by the merchant ship Laughing Lady, escorted by a Tamerland Light cruiser, the Ocelot. Let the merchant ship land and you get another ship, modern weapons, and maybe more slaves.”

“Tamerland cruisers are pretty nasty ships.” Anton’s thoughts went back to the Peregrine for a moment. They had the superior force, yet took a beating. Well, it’s a dangerous business, he conceded.

“After the Laughing Lady  lands, the Ocelot  will probably leave. There’s certainly nothing on Lords Landing for anyone to want to stay and visit. With their strict laws, most of the Ocelot’s crew would wind up in jail because they dared to look at one of their women, and receive a public whipping if they weren’t stoned to death first.”

A new meeting time was arranged before Rares and Angela returned to the Compton. Anton sat thinking long after they’d left. He didn’t want to think his crews on Saipha and Tamerland had been the cause of the two disasters. One team maybe, but two seemed unlikely. The only conclusion left was bad luck—very bad luck. Obviously the elders were angry, if they sent him two cruisers. The SAS was in for a real surprise if they again stumbled on Anton Ja’Tuva.

* * * *

Anton watched as the Puff Adder optics displayed the approach of the Cobra and SeaSnake. The Baptiste Clan consisted of Gypsies, who had made a living traveling the colonies, entertaining, and trading. Being nomads, they tended to be accused of many of the crimes that happened when they were on planet. Some they committed; many they didn’t. Over time they were banned from planet after planet. In desperation, they banded together and sought refuge on a remote planet they called Freeland. There they built the infrastructure necessary to support their growing population, and over time, developed schools and universities. Branded as outlaws, they decided they had nothing to lose by raiding the planets that had banned them. Soon they became experts at reverse engineering and improving on the technology they stole. Today they had a shipyard that produced and supported the Baptiste fleet, which operated in the three empires: SAS, UFN, and JPU. They were now strong enough to defend themselves against anything less than a war with one of the empires.

Shuttles from the Cobra and SeaSnake arrived the next day. Lieutenant Dorin was there to meet and escort them to Anton’s conference room. Petru Ja’Saba, Captain of the Cobra, was a big man, heavy jowls, large stomach, and a broad body with plenty of muscle. He dressed the old-fashioned way—a white, ruffled shirt, a multicolored vest in purples, reds, and greens, black, tight pants, and black-leather boots. His second, Lieutenant Vasile Ja’Saba, was a small, thin man with a narrow face, black curly hair with a matching beard. He dressed entirely in black with a knife in each boot.

“Welcome, Petru, it’s been a long time. I see you’ve a new Lieutenant. What happened to Linus? Did he get tired of doing all your work?” It was a standard joke among the Captains. Although an excellent tactician, Petru didn’t believe in hard work.

“No, the Elders decided anyone who could work years with me deserved to Captain his own ship. He’s the Captain of the Coral working in the JPU Empire.” Petru pulled out a chair and sat. “When are you going to get us something to drink, Anton?”

“Dorin, get Petru some wine before he goes into withdrawal.” Anton waved at the liqueur cabinet. He turned to the Ja’Choys who manned the SeaSnake. “Albin, what have you been doing this year? I thought you were working out of UFN.”

“We were but the Elders said you needed help.” Albin laughed. “So here we are.” For a Baptiste, his red hair and pale complexion was unusual. He had broad shoulders, no fat, dressed casually but with nothing that matched or was new. His lieutenant, Jacek Ja’Choy, was the tallest man in the room and well built. His complexion and hair were dark, and his face clean-shaven. His gaze swept the room and everyone in it like he expected trouble and would enjoy it. He didn’t look interested in talking.

A small party ensued, as they caught up on what they and their old friends had been doing. Jacek talked the least but was the most attentive.

“To business, my fellow raiders,” Anton said. It was a seasoned group that had plenty of experience in raiding and armed engagements. The Elder’s order to get tough released them from some of their previous restrictions. In the past, the clan Elders had thought it best to keep a low profile, so as not to wake the sleeping dragons. Today clan’s fleet reviled the SAS fleet. They didn’t want an all-out fight with the SAS; however, one-on-one confrontations would test their ability to challenge them. The Captains worked the rest of the night, developing a schedule and plan of attack on Angela’s targets of opportunity. Three days later they departed for Lingwood.

Chapter 20

Tamerland’s orbiting station, Cyclops, wasn’t as big as Eden’s Hercules, but it was technically equivalent and massive for a relatively small colony. The Peregrine had to be towed into docking position because Captain Gebauer didn’t trust the ship’s stability. Most of the systems weren’t functional, half the ship open to space, and only one engine marginally operational.

The Peregrine crew had been devastated. One hundred and sixty seamen were dead and eighty wounded. Forty Wasps were killed and twenty-five wounded. Only one hundred nine-five of the crew remained operational. The Captain doubted that the SAS would try to repair the Peregrine. Instead, they would donate it to Tamerland for scrap. While the Captain and the XO left the bridge to supervise the unloading of the wounded and the dead, the rest of the bridge crew and I waited for word to disembark. Kollar was the first to break the silence.

“That was a nice jump, Reese. I’ll bet we blistered that Light’s hull. I almost didn’t hit the firing button. I heard the XO mumble that he’d never been so close to another spacecraft in flight and never wanted to be again.” She laughed. “It sure made targeting easy. I could have bounced rocks off their hull.”

Kollar’s remarks seemed to easy the tension and everyone started talking at once.

* * * *

Three hours later quarters had been arranged for everyone, some in hotels, others in private homes, and the Wasps at the army garrison. They assigned me a room at Tamerland’s Navy Intelligence facility along with Commander Wang and her remaining staff. Three of her people had been killed and two wounded when level two had been hit by two missiles.

I assumed the navy thought that would create the fewest problems. At the hotels, I would be exposed to the public with unpredictable consequences, and they doubted they could find a private resident to take me. Although I wouldn’t have minded, the garrison didn’t appear appropriate.

Wang gave me a personal tour or the facility in spite of Lieutenant Commander Prudet’s protest. She clearly objected to a Riss-human having access to sensitive information.

“Another one of your kind is being returned to Saipha, Reese,” Prudet said with a sneer.

“Who?”

“Alena from the Kestrel. Five down, five to go.” Prudet spit the words out. I ignored her and turned to Wang.

“Commander, will you allow me to contact Lieutenant Alena?”

“No!” Prudet said.

“Yes, Reese. You can use our facilities to contact her and to get her reply. I authorize it, Prudet, although it isn’t necessary. Lieutenant Reese could demand it under her contract and insist on an SAS inquiry if you denied it,” Wang said.

I used the Intelligence unit’s message center with their priority codes.

Several hours later, Alena replied that she was tired of the abuse she’d been getting from the officers and enlisted personell. She’d been raped recently and no action had been taken to investigate the incident.

I sent a reply, asking if she intended to return the Riss. She indicated, Quiet night under the moon, would be her companion for the rest of her life. I convinced her to stay on for her Riss-sisters. I suggested she tell the Captain she insisted on an SAS injury into her rape and his failure to take action. That wouldn’t undo what had happened, but I suspected it would reduce the abuse she’d being enduring.

Eight hours later, Alena informed me the rapist had been caught and sentenced to a dishonorable discharge and ten years at the SAS penal colony. In addition, she’d noticed an immediate change in the Captain and crew attitudes. She’d decided to stay for the Riss’ sake.

I didn’t like using our contract’s right to demand an SAS injury, but it had proved necessary. To some extent it helped to offset the prejudice the tattoo caused.

“Well, are you satisfied you forced my Intelligence unit to cater to your whims?” Prudet said, when I left the message room. I felt exhausted and in no mood for her nonsense.

“Yes, ma’am. It helped stop bigots from abusing an innocent woman for no other reason than their ignorance.”

“How dare you insinuate I’m ignorant! I’ll have you up on report.”

“Commander Prudet, I merely answered your question. I said nothing about you or insinuated anything about you. I’m, however, sorry if you think it applies to you.”

“Enough Prudet, unless you’d like to take this discussion to the admiral.” Wang had obviously been listening from a few meters away.

<Prudet mad.>

<I don’t care. The Prudets of the SAS are the main reason good people like Alena, I, and others want to leave. If Prudet wants a fight, I’m willing. I hate to say it, but I’m getting used to it.>

<To fools or what they say?>

The laugh tingled through my spine and spread throughout my body.

<Both.>

* * * *

The Heavy cruiser Bateleur arrived two days later with a Light cruiser, the Shikra, as an escort. The missiles were loaded by the end of the following day, and the Bateleur scheduled to depart the next day. Rumor indicated the raiders had damaged Tamerland’s central security control center, but they expected the engineers to have it working before the Bateleur departed.

Both cruisers were fully manned and had little extra space. The Shikra was able to accommodate only a few of the Wasps and Navy personnel from Peregrine. The Bateleur only had sufficient quarters for the senior officers.

Three bays were emptied and set up to accommodate those well enough to make the trip. Two bays were set aside for army and navy male personnel and one for army and navy women.

* * * *

“Reese, the Captain’s asked me to talk to you. The Captain of the Bateleur doesn’t have room to accommodate all of the officers, and you’re the lowest ranking lieutenant,” Wang said, looking a bit concerned. “He’d like you housed in the woman’s bay and to be in charge. It honestly has nothing to do with you being a Riss-human. The Captain’s talked with all the people you’ve worked for and the Chiefs. He said you appeared the best qualified. You know the Wasps, and he’d bet every navy woman knows who you are. Since the Riss-humans were an SAS experiment, he thought giving you a variety of responsibilities would help the overall evaluation. I agreed with him.”

* * * *

When I entered the bay, I found it considerably larger than the sixty-four women needed. The beds and lockers were well spaced to give everyone plenty of room. My information sheet indicated I had four JGs, one ensign, and two second Lieutenants. The enlisted included thirty-six navy and twenty army. Twenty of those had been wounded but were well enough to travel.

“Bay, attention,” someone shouted and the room jumped to attention. I looked around and almost laughed. Very few were fully dressed. Most wore an assortment of military dress and work uniforms. I felt embarrassed. A room full of women stood at attention for me—senior or not. Some were looking straight ahead, some looked afraid, and others looked unfriendly.

“At ease. Gather around so I don’t have to shout.” I waited until they were closer before beginning. “First, no saluting or jumping to attention among us in the bay. Treat this bay as if you were off duty in your quarters with friends. If there’s something you need, beside more money or rank,” that got some laughs and smiles, “come to me, and I’ll try to resolve it.”

“Lieutenant, there’s only a one head in here and no showers,” a young Petty Officer, with her hand raised, said.

“Ma’am, a few of us are without a change of uniform. We lost them when the crew quarters got hit,” a Wasp corporal said.

“I’ll see if I can resolve these issues quickly. If you think of anything else, let me know. I may not be able to help but I’ll try.” I turned and headed for the Wasp’s area. As I passed the Wasps assigned to the Bateleur, I received some strange looks.

When I reached the Colonel’s office, a tall lanky Sergeant greeted me. “Can I help you, Lieutenant?”

He looked young but confident, although he did lose a bit of it after a second look at me.

“Yes, I’m Lieutenant Reese. I’d like to see the Colonel when he’s free.”

The sergeant sat back down at his desk and used his Comm to query the Colonel.

“Colonel Kissom will see you now, Lieutenant.” He rose and walked to the door, knocking once. After he heard the Colonel reply, he opened the door for me. I entered, braced to attention, and saluted. In the process, I noted Colonel Quentin seated off to my left.

“At ease, Lieutenant. What can I do for you?” Kissom was a broad-shouldered man with short brown hair, a square jaw, and pug nose. He looked to be a match for any of his troops.

“Sir, I’ve sixty-odd women in Bay 28 with no shower facilities. I wondered if I could make arrangements to use the Wasps’ showers, preferably when they aren’t using them,” I said before I realized that could be interpreted as facetious. I didn’t mean to be funny.

“Alone would probably be best, Lieutenant.” He grinned. “Talk to Gunny Howard. Tell him I said to arrange it. I understand from Colonel Quentin you spend time working out with the Wasps and have good friends there.”

“Yes, Sir. Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk has taken me under his wing.”

“That’s good company. When you get settled, I’d like to talk to you about the Riss and your trip to Saipha. It sounds like an interesting story and good Wasp training.” He looked over to Quentin who nodded to me. “If you need anything else, let me know.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

I found Gunny Howard and explained what I needed. Apparently, he and Valk were old friends and had already discussed me. He agreed to three hours each morning beginning at 0800 hours.

“I understand you may be using our workout area with Valk,” Howard said. “Anyone who’s a friend of Valk is a friend of mine. If you need anything else or need to get hold of Valk, give me a call. Your old SID codes won’t work here. My code is H8, set yours to H308.”

“Thank you, Gunny.” I made my way to level one and went looking for the XO, Commander Delfont. I found him in the officer’s mess.

“Sir, I’m sorry to bother you. I’m Lieutenant Reese and responsible for the women from Peregrine in Bay 28.”

“Sit down, Reese. You’re the talk of the Bateleur, although I imagine that’s nothing new.”

“No, Sir.” I pointed to my face. “I’m kind of hard to miss.”

Delfont laughed. “That’s an impressive tattoo. What can I do for you?”

“Sir, many of the women from the Peregrine lost their lockers and literally have only the clothes on their backs and no personal effects. They don’t have money available because the ship’s accounts are on the Peregrine. I hoped you could help.”

“I’ll set up an account of three hundred credits for each woman to buy clothes and personal items. The Captain will have to approve it, which shouldn’t be a problem. Will that be sufficient?”

“Yes, Sir. That would be very helpful. Could I also get your permission for them to be out of uniform on level one? I’m hoping to borrow some work clothes from the Wasps.”

Delfont nodded. “I had heard you had Wasp friends. Maybe sometime we can discuss your adventures with them on Saipha.”

I agreed and headed back to the bay to share the results of my discussions. The news was greeted with cheers and jubilation.

<You did well. Make friends.>

<I hope so. Its cramped quarters for so many women to be locked up with a Riss-human.>

<Did best. Can do no more.>

I hoped the next six days to Eden would be easy. I guessed wrong. The next day a young Petty Officer met me on the way to the showers.

“Ma’am, there are three men in the showers. They’ve been making all sorts of lewd remarks and refuse to leave.”

“Want me to throw their asses out, Ma’am?” Terril said with a smile on her face. I had no doubt she could. But I didn’t want or need that kind of trouble.

“No, let’s talk the idiots out. Otherwise we’re going to spend the rest of the day answering silly questions and filling out paper work.”

“I don’t mind, Ma’am. I don’t have anything else to do.”

It was true. We didn’t have any duties and would be sitting around doing nothing all day. I shook my head and opened the door to the showers. It was a typical shower area: five commodes and urinals on the left side, and ten showers on the right. Three naked men, one partially erect, stood under the showers. Dressed for the showers, my current assortment of clothes didn’t have any rank; however, by now everyone on the ship should know me and my rank.

“Well, look here. They’ve sent a navy woman to entertain us. I’m first,” the tallest young man said, holding his crutch. The other two had big smiles.

“Your time’s up, and you’re delaying us from our showers. Get your clothes on and leave.”

“We don’t mind watching and feeling and fucking, do we boys.” With that he began advancing on me. “I’ve never had it on with a Riss thingie.”

I felt the world slow around me.

<Only three. No body armor.> Thalia’s laugh radiated through me.

<I’m tired of idiots.> I grabbed my SID and hit H8 just as the man reached for it. I slammed down on his wrist. The downward force of the contact caused him to lean towards me. I rammed my palm into his solar plexus, driving him backward. The floor was slippery. He landed on his ass.

“Yes?”

“Gunny, this is Lieutenant Reese. I’ve three male Wasps in the showers, who don’t want to leave. If you’re busy, I could have the women Wasps throw them out, but then they won’t be available for duty for a while.” I smiled at Howard’s answer. I knew he was red in the face and wanted to shout.

“Master Gunnery Sergeant Howard said to tell you that if you aren’t standing in front of him in sixty seconds, you’d better find a way off this ship—today.”

The two who were standing rushed by me with only a towel wrapped around them, grabbing their clothes on the way out. The one on the floor crawled towards his clothes. I picked them up and handed them to him as he staggered out the door naked.

“Shower’s free, ladies.”

The shouting and laughing could probably be heard all the way to the Wasp’s quarters.

* * * *

The next three days were uneventful. The XO had gotten each woman three hundred credits, which they used to clean out the navy exchange. I managed to convince the Wasp’s supply sergeant to issue some fatigues to the women, after he had gotten my accounting of the shower incident. I had a few workouts with Valk and listened to Terril retell the Saipha adventure several times. Each time it got better.

The Bateleur docked at Hercules three days later.

Chapter 21

When the Bateleur  docked, the wounded were evacuated first and transferred to shuttles for transportation to military hospitals. Although a quarter of the crew were due for retirement or new assignments and remaining personal entitled to shore leave, we were all loaded into shuttles and taken to the Riss Project building for examination and processing. The building easily accommodated everyone as it had been designed to process the three hundred candidates plus staff.

The building hadn’t changed over the years, only the administrative and medical staff. It took a week for them to conduct their evaluation and debriefing. Ten navy personnel and one Wasp were found to have suffered post-traumatic shock and were dispatched to an Eden medical facility, Demeter, for further psychological evaluation and treatment.

<Like go see what they do.>

<They mess with your brain.>

<Would be interesting. Have two. What if find one crazy?>

<We would both go wherever mentally disturbed people are kept, or they would discharge us and send us back to Saipha.>

<Lucky both sane.>

I underwent special testing, since my records indicated that I’d been involved in an explosion. Of course, they had to ask my permission for each test. I insisted on a technical explanation for and approval from Thalia before I allowed them to proceed. It took two days for what should have been two hours.

<I think the doctors are frustrated with us; however, we need to know for future reference.>

<Their problem. Not ours.>

The psychological testing was really amusing. Two psychologists trying to prove they knew how I, a Riss-human, should feel.

“The Riss have never been on a spacecraft and never in a battle. She must have affected you,” the woman, Commander Clare, said. She sat back with an I know smirk on her pale, plain face. She was tall and looked down at me with an attitude of superiority. The other doctor sat off to the side, taking notes or doodling.

<It fun.>

<I can’t tell her that.>

<Why not? It true.>

<They’ll interrupt that as you being crazy and send us off for further evaluation. You aren’t supposed to think it was fun.>

“Thalia thought it was interesting.”

“You kept her calm!”

“The Riss are a naturally tranquil race. She can keep me calm, but I can’t keep her calm.” It dragged on and on for the better part of a day. By the time I left, I would bet they had headaches. Thalia, as usual, thought it amusing.

* * * *

As our evaluations came to an end, we were told that senior officers would be arriving the next day, and we were required to wear our dress uniforms. Fortunately, they’d provided each of us with a complete set along with the appropriate insignia. The next day we all reported to the auditorium at 0900 hours and waited.

<We wait lot in navy.>

<‘Hurry up and wait’ is the navy’s motto.>

An hour later, four officers and two sergeants appeared on stage: an Admiral, a Captain, a Commander, a Lieutenant Colonel, Sergeant Major of the Wasps, and a Master Chief Petty Officer. I recognized Gebauer, Riddler, and Quentin. The Admiral walked up to the microphone.

“It’s my pleasure today to recognize the contribution the men and women of the Peregrine made repulsing a superior raider force from attacking Tamerland and destroying the raider ship, Sidewinder. You’ve all earned the Raider’s Battle Ribbon and the thanks of a grateful empire. When you leave, you can collect your metals, which are on the table in the back of the room.” The Admiral paused and looked down at a document on the podium.

“Your commanders have identified individuals who by their actions have earned special recognition. Petty Officer First Class Mandell, please step forward.” Mandell made his way onto the stage, saluted, and stayed at attention. It wasn’t every day one stood in front of an Admiral.

“At ease, Mandell. Petty Officer First Class Mandell is awarded the Bronze Star for distinguishing himself during the Peregrine’s engagement with the raider ship Sidewinder by risking his life to save six individuals who had been injured and trapped in the Maintenance Bay on level one…

<Interesting.>

<Why?>

<Riss consider normal. Not require recognition.>

Eight more Bronze Stars were issued over the next thirty minutes. It proved interesting to hear the actions people had taken while the ship was being blown apart. Three of the nine individuals were Wasps who’d worked with the navy repair and rescue teams.

“Lieutenant Reese, please step forward.” I stood in shock. What had I done? I was on the bridge the entire time, which was never damaged.

<Relax. They tell you.>

Thalia laughed, much to my chagrin, although it relaxed me enough to walk up forward without embarrassing myself. The stage seemed larger than it did from my seat in front with the other officers. I wondered how Gebauer was taking this. He didn’t look distressed, but then he’d looked calm while the Peregrine was being blown apart.

“At ease, Lieutenant. Vice Admiral Zann would be proud of you and Thalia. The Riss have taken a step towards recognition by your combined actions.”

I couldn’t believe that the Admiral knew Thalia’s name and that he’d recognize her in this forum.

“Lieutenant Reese is awarded the Silver Star for distinguishing herself during the engagement with the raiders at Tamerland. Her actions were instrumental in destroying the Sidewinder, avoiding the raider’s assault on Tamerland, and loss of the SAS’s new anti-missiles.”

<Interesting. Not mention what action.>

<Obviously, you’ve just become an SAS secret.> I smiled.

“On behalf of Thalia and myself, I thank you, Sir.” I saluted and left the stage.

<Again normal action.>

<But important for the Riss.>

<Yes. Important.>

* * * *

Over the next week those retiring were released. The rest of us waited for our new assignments. Everyone remained anxious to hear where he or she would be assigned.

The next morning I was called to the assignment room. I should have been apprehensive, but it didn’t really matter. With the Peregrine destroyed, there was no chance I’d be assigned with people who knew me. I would be starting over no matter the assignment. I only hoped the new Captain wouldn’t hate me before he met me.

<One person. One day at a time.>

<Yes, oh wise one.>

“Lieutenant Reese, you’re to report to Admiral Plimson at the SAS Air Defense building. He has your new assignment. There will be a car here tomorrow at 0900 hours. You’re to be packed and ready.”

* * * *

I reflected back on my journey to the Riss Project six years ago. A lot had changed since then. Today I was a Riss-human, a Lieutenant, and had been in combat. I hardly noticed the buildings I’d viewed with awe that day, instead wondering what the Admiral wanted with me. Lieutenants didn’t visit Admirals to chat. I wondered what I could have done wrong. For the life of me, I didn’t have a clue. Of course, that didn’t preclude the Admiral from having something. After all, Captain Gebauer had found plenty of reasons.

<You worry too much. Sticks and stones.>

<Yes, I’m assuming the reason for this visit isn’t good. You have to admit I’ve some justification.>

<No. Not know Admiral Plimson. No reason assume.>

<You win.>

It took a minute for me to realize the car has stopped and the driver waited for me to exit. The steps to the Air Defense building were intimidating. They were white and black streaked granite, stretching fifty people wide and at least twenty-five steps up to the entrance. The building looked to be a mixture of a stone matrix and glass, rising fifty stories. Special navy police stood guard inside the entrance. I presented my ID, which they scanned and compared to my fingerprints and retina. When my identity had been verified, they sent me to another desk where my appointment with Admiral Plimson was confirmed. There I was given directions to his office and given an elevator ride to the fiftieth floor. I exited onto a plush blue rug. A desk with a sergeant and two Special navy police faced the elevator.

“Lieutenant Reese, if you’ll have a seat in the lounge to your left, someone will escort you to the Admiral’s office when he’s free.” The lounge was a large room with ten cushioned chairs in navy blue. As I sat, a young Petty Officer appeared.

“Ma’am, can I get you something to drink or a light snack?”

<Rank has its privileges.>

<Someday, little one.>

“Kaffa, if you have it, Petty Officer,” I wasn’t really thirsty but didn’t know how long the Admiral would be and needed something to do. The Petty Officer disappeared as quietly as he’d arrived. I sat and clicked on the reader next to the chair, scanned magazines, newscasts—and worried. The Petty Officer returned with a small table and a cup of kaffa.”

“Anything else, Ma’am?”

“No, thank you.”

“If you need anything, I’ll be just outside.”

<I could get used to this.>

<Enjoy. Soon back reality.>

Thalia’s gentle smile flowed through me. A feeling I treasured. The kaffa was a particularly tasty blend with a hint of chocolate, or I thought it was chocolate. I’d only tasted chocolate once.

“Ma’am, the Admiral will see you now. If you would follow me.” The same Petty Officer led me down a long hallway past office after office, each with a navy secretary at a desk. At the end of the hallway sat a Lieutenant.

“Lieutenant Reese, the Admiral will see you now.” He stood and knocked on the mahogany door. When he heard ‘Come,’ he gestured for me to enter.

“Lieutenant Reese, Sir,” he announced and closed the door behind me. The Admiral sat behind a massive wooden desk in a brown leather-like chair. The wall behind him was solid glass and gave a view of Eden beyond description. The Admiral was the same one who’d been at the medals ceremony. He was a little above normal height, had a good build for a middle-aged man, wavy-silver hair, and a round face with a broad nose. A Captain sat in a chair off to my right—a younger man of average height and build, black hair cut short, and a hawk-like nose on a narrow face. I braced to attention and saluted.

“Sir, Lieutenant Reese reporting as ordered.”

“At ease, Lieutenant. Have a seat.” The Admiral waved to the chair on my left. “Would you like something to drink?” He leaned back in his chair and took a sip from his cup, while waiting for me to sit.

“No thank you, Sir.”

“The SAS has mixed feelings about you, Reese. They realize now that your tattoo has made you a lightening rod and put you at a disadvantage. In a sense skewing the results of the project evaluation. Mind you, they aren’t considering having it removed. Although we consider Gebauer to be an excellent Captain, assigning you to another ship with a Captain like him would be unfair. He admits you disgust him and he didn’t treat you fairly.” Plimson paused, watching me. When I remained silent, he continued. “I’ve interviewed four Captains over the past five days and have concluded Gebauer isn’t alone in his opinion, although he may be the most extreme. One was openly repulsed by the project and two clearly prejudiced against Riss-humans. After interviewing them, I can understand the problems you’ve been having and compliment you on the way you’ve conducted yourself.” He took another sip from his cup and nodded to the Captain, who began to speak.

<Not mention fourth. Maybe him.>

“Lieutenant Reese, I’m Captain Jordanno. Talking with Captain Gebauer, it was obvious that you put him in his place on several occasions.”

It wasn’t a question, but the Captain seemed to be waiting for a response. “No, Sir. I think in each case the Captain realized a mistake had been made and admitted it.” I knew Lieutenants didn’t back down Captains, if same Lieutenants wanted a career in the navy.

“On your arrival, he informed you that you weren’t qualified to give orders to anyone. Since you were put in charge of Shuttle maintenance, I’d say he backed down. Wouldn’t you?”

I wasn’t sure how to interrupt the small twitch of his lip. “The order was illegal and a violation of my contract. When the Captain realized that, he changed his mind.”

The Admiral and the Captain smiled.

“When he brought you up on charges?”

“When the Captain realized the charges weren’t founded, he cleared me of them and fined those who initiated them.”

“When he wanted to court martial you for ruining the environmental system?”

“I pointed out that he should be looking for the person who caused the explosion. He agreed.”

“Captain Gebauer has nailed Master Chiefs to his stateroom wall. I’ve never heard of anyone surviving a confrontation with him. You’ve survived three. Why do you put up with it, Lieutenant? Captains who hate you for no reason, people who despise you, and those who want to hurt you. Wouldn’t you rather get rid of the Riss? Your contract allows you to quit any time you want.” Jordanno leaned forward in his chair, waiting for my response.

“Thalia, the high-Riss inside me, will be my companion until the day I die. Yes, I would love to retire to Saipha to live in peace, to let Thalia visit her and my Sisters, but the purpose of the Riss project is to demonstrate that the Riss would make a valuable partner. For Thalia’s sake, I’ll do whatever it takes to finish the project, Sir.”

Jordanno leaned back and sat quietly for a while. “Does that include using your contract to intimidate your superiors?”

“Thalia is high-Riss. She’s willing to help the SAS in any way she’s capable. She’s proved that.” I pointed to my Silver Star. “However, she won’t allow me to submit to illegal orders or to be abused for someone’s amusement, Sir.”

“Fair enough,” Jordanno said. “I’m considering you for assignment to my ship. Do you’ve any questions for me?”

“No, Sir. That wouldn’t be appropriate.”

He turned to his superior. “Admiral she’s acceptable. My concern was that she thought herself special and used the Riss-project as a weapon against her superiors. I sense that she has merely been defending herself from people who think they’ve a right to abuse her. I’ve reviewed her record and talked to some of the people she’s worked with. They agree her performance has been outstanding. Yes, she’s a lighting rod. That has the potential for problems, but that’s more the fault of the genius who tattooed her.”

The Admiral stood, but waved the Captain and me to remain seated. “Fine. During my interviews, I never mentioned anything about ships. You made the assumption that it would be your current ship. I intentionally let everyone believe that; otherwise, they would have lied. The current line of Raptors, Light cruisers, is more than adequate for taking on normal pirates, transporting VIPs, and delivering equipment to the colonies. Our Heavy cruisers would discourage an invasion; however, I don’t know if we could survive a war. The recent information about the raider’s ships appears to indicate them as equivalent with our cruisers. We only survived the assault on Tamerland because of Lieutenant Reese.” He stopped and smiled at me.

“Sir, I don’t mean to interrupt, but what did she do? The citation was rather vague.” The Captain looked from the Admiral to me.

“She and Thalia executed a skip to within one kilometer of the enemy cruiser. That enabled the Peregrine, which was barely functional, to blow it to pieces. The Heavy cruiser accompanying it decided to leave, either because they’d lost their window of opportunity or because they were no longer sure of the situation on the ground or potential SAS support.”

“A kilometer?”

“Yes. Commander Riddler, the XO, said he never wanted to be that close to another spacecraft again. We’ve kept it a secret because we’re developing software for the computer to duplicate skips of that precision. It would give us a huge advantage.

“Anyway, we’ve just completed construction of a new class of Hunter spacecraft. They’re configured in between a Heavy and a Light cruiser; however, they have armament equivalent to a Heavy. You’re to be the first Captain of the newly commissioned Tiger.”

Jordanno sat there speechless. His face went through confusion, shock, and finally excitement.

The Admiral continued. “I’m afraid there are only a few slots available for you to fill. To minimize problems, we’ve selected crew who’ve worked with Lieutenant Reese before and who wanted to be on the same crew. You don’t have to worry, they’re outstanding people.”

* * * *

The shuttle ride to Hercules was packed. I sat in the third row behind several high-ranking officers, including Commanders Riddler and Wang. Gunny Valk sat a row behind me. He wore a black uniform with an arm patch of a Black Scorpion on a red background. It was deadly-looking with its tail curled, ready to strike. At the top was written First Company, and across the bottom, Black Scorpions.

Although talking quietly, everyone appeared in a good mood. The Lieutenant next to me didn’t seem like he wanted to talk and had intentionally ignored me.

<Hate?>

<Nervous.>

<Probably wondering if I’m contagious.>

He looked a few years older than me, had straight brown-hair cut short, a round face, small nose, and thick lips. Overall, he looked nondescript.

“Lieutenant? I’m Lieutenant Reese. Are you assigned to the Tiger?” I decided that I had to take the initiative. One person, one day at a time, I mused.

“Lieutenant Bakku. Yes.” Our conversation was cautious, until he found that I had been assigned to shuttle maintenance on the Peregrine. He was being assigned to shuttle maintenance on the Tiger and interested in my experience, and the Peregrine’s encounter with the raiders. By the time the shuttle docked, he’d relaxed. I exited and found guards stationed at the shuttle bay exit checking IDs. They directed non-Tiger traffic to the left, and right for the Tiger. A little further along I encountered several more guards in black uniforms doing another ID check. After I’d been verified as assigned to the Tiger, a sergeant gave me a folder with directions to my quarters. I waited for Valk to clear the checkpoint.

“Gunny, I see you’ve been assigned to the Tiger. I like the new uniform.”

“Thank you, Ma’am. We’ve been commissioned, Scorpion Company One. Each of us has completed a rigorous month-long trial to qualify. Because Hunter class ships will be chasing raiders and have limited space, they wanted the best of the army’s airborne commandos available. One hundred were selected of the four hundred tested. Others will be tested over time and join Scorpions companies to accompany the new Hunters coming out of production.”

“Can I still work out with you?” I was delighted Valk was part of the army contingent and wanted to continue my training.

“Yes, you’re still my student. The rest of the group also passed the trial. I would like to think you’d have passed.” He smiled.

My quarters weren’t spacious but adequate. A metal chair, pull-down shelf to act as a desk, a single bed, and a cabinet for storing clothes. It didn’t matter. Except to sleep, I spent little time in there.

Chapter 22

The auditorium accommodated well over six hundred people. That was lucky because the Tiger’s compliment included four hundred navy and one hundred army personnel. Admiral Plimson spoke first. He talked about the Hunter class ships and congratulated us on being the first to crew one. The navy personnel had been hand-picked from over two thousand available candidates, and the army personnel had passed a special training course.

Next came a Commander who explained that each of us would undergo training and familiarization courses designed to produce a functional crew. The next several hours we spent reviewing the general layout of the ship, and how to get from one point to another. The Tiger had two levels while the Heavy cruisers had three; however, the Hunter’s levels were larger and supported more weapons, missiles, and the Sharks, which replaced the old Strikers. The new attack fighters had more powerful missiles and lasers, larger engines, and were harder to detect, because of their shape and outer covering.

Level one had three concentric rings providing better protection for critical systems, functions, and storage. Heavy cruisers had only two rings.

“The packet you received, when you checked in, has your class schedules.”

* * * *

My first class included all of the officers assigned to the Tiger. The room was small but adequate for the forty in the class. The room comfortable but plain—steelplex walls with a few pictures of different ships with a short history, a podium, and three large screens. One positioned in front, and one on each side for easy viewing. The chairs were padded in a plain blue synthetic fabric and the only concession to comfort. It surprised me to find that one of the pictures was of the Peregrine with a condensed version of our encounter with the raiders.

Later that day, we toured the ship. We spent most of the time on the bridge, as many of the officers would have duty there due to the limited number of officers on the Tiger. The next day was free. I decided to join one of the crew specialty classes. As I approached the door for the Shuttle Maintenance class, the Senior Chief standing next to the Petty Officer checking passes stopped me.

“Ma’am, I’m Senior Chief Petty Officer Olsen. I’d rather you didn’t attend this class. It would make the seamen nervous and restrict their questions. I’d be glad to give you a private tour after mess this evening, if that would be all right with you.”

“Yes, Senior Chief. That would be most satisfactory.”

For the next two nights Olsen gave me a detailed tour of the shuttle bays and the shuttles and the attack fighters, Sharks, the Tiger  would be carrying. We looked at engines, weapons, and cargo bays.

“Ma’am, Master Chief Valk will be waiting tomorrow to give you a tour of the Scorpions’ area, if you’re interested.” He smiled. “Master Chief Rucker and Valk warned...advised us that you would want to know how things worked. All the Chiefs have agreed to give you a private tour.”

“I’m reminded again, that it’s the Chiefs that run the spacecraft. Thank you for your time, Chief. It was a very interesting and informative tour.”

* * * *

The next night I met with Gunny Valk and got a detailed tour of the Scorpions’ area, and an opportunity to work out with the class. Because Valk introduced me, I received a cordial reception.

During the days, I attended the officer sessions, where we were each given a new System Interface Device—SID. They were small enough to carry on our person. They replaced our personal computers, enabled us to talk to anyone on ship, and connected to the ship’s computer, to the extent a person had access. For individual communications there were two channels: one for navy and army business and one for personal calls. The SID was voice-activated, could create a hologram of the screen, and be manipulated by voice.

As I sat eating my evening meal, three Lieutenants approached. “Lieutenant Reese, we understand that Master Chief Rucker has agreed to give you a private tour of the Environmental section. We’re assigned there and would like to come along, if you don’t mind.”

“You don’t have to ask her, we’ll just go,” a young Lieutenant said with a laugh. He was dressed in whites, which had two ribbons—Good conduct for three years service and an Expert Pistol medal. He stood taller then the other two and was quite handsome with a muscular build. Right now, however, his face was twisted in disgust. “She isn’t even a real Lieutenant. She’s a Riss-thingie.”

“I’ll ask Master Chief Rucker. I doubt he’ll mind,” I said, ignoring him.

“You’ll ask. He’s a chief and we’re Lieutenants. I’ll tell him.”

“Fine. It’ll save me the trouble.” I cut a slice of meat and continued eating.

<Found you a fool-thingie.>

I almost choked and had to take a sip of water.

“Who do you think you are, Lieutenant?” he shouted. Now everyone within hearing distance was watching, which was most of the mess hall. I looked up and smiled.

“I’m Lieutenant Reese, a Riss-thingie.”

He stomped off in anger. He knew he couldn’t do anything with everyone watching. I addressed the other two. “If you two would like to accompany Master Chief Rucker and me, be at Environment unit at 1900 hours. Be dressed in something you don’t mind getting dirty. For this tour, we all dispense with rank. Is that acceptable?” They both nodded.

* * * *

I wandered down to the Environmental section a bit early to ensure Rucker didn’t mind two extra. He didn’t and thought it a good idea for all officers to get their “hands dirty.” At 1900 hours the two Lieutenants showed up in work clothes—and to everyone’s surprise, including Chief Rucker, so did Commander Jacklin. Everyone braced to attention.

“At ease. I understand the rules are no rank on this tour,” he said with a smile.

“Congratulations, Commander,” I said. I hadn’t had a chance to say anything to him during the classes. On the Peregrine he’d been a Lieutenant Commander. “Obviously, the navy knows talent when they see it.”

“Thank you, Reese. Lead on, Master Chief, and ignore me.”

Rucker did a good job at ignoring his section chief. The next four hours were spent examining each piece of machinery, talking about its function, potential problems, and the parts that made it work. In several instances, I had Rucker remove a cover to better see what he was talking about. Finally we reached the tunnel that led to the ship’s recycling systems.

“Well, Master Chief, would you be willing to give me a tour?”

Rucker laughed. “Yes, ma’am. I anticipated you might want to see them, so I’ve two suits ready.”

“Filter?” one of the Lieutenants asked.

“Yes, the waste from the ship runs through many filters as it’s recycled. The Lieutenant’s right. Because of this ship’s condensed space, the filter system differs significantly from the other cruisers. She wants to see them up close and personal. You need suits because contact with the chemicals in there would cause severe skin damage and the gases would kill you.” We suited up and crawled in the ducts, examining the input pipes, filters, and output ducts. Twenty minutes later we exited and headed for the showers.

“Anyone else?” Rucker smiled as he asked. I could see the emotions flash across their faces—except Jacklin.

“Sure, Master Chief. Wouldn’t want to miss the best part of the tour.”

“I’ll take him, Chief. Give you a rest.” The Chief helped Jacklin suit up, and I gave him the full tour. The commander knew about everything in there but, like me, was interested in touching and seeing it first hand. When we exited, the two Lieutenants decided they needed to see it.

“Well, Reese, I would have thought you wouldn’t want any part of the tunnels after the explosion.”

“Flying down the tunnel wasn’t so bad; it was that damn bulkhead.” I nodded to the wall. Jacklin laughed.

“I could imagine. I never could figure how Petty Officer Embert didn’t get more serious injuries. He flew down and out the same tunnel.”

“He was in front of me, and I partially shielded him from the explosion. As we came flying out, I caught and twisted him, so he hit me rather than the bulkhead.”

“Why didn’t you tell anyone? You probably saved his life.”

“I was too busy trying to avoid a court-martial.” Jacklin and I had a good laughed together.

“I notice my third Lieutenant isn’t here.”

“He’s a hands-off Lieutenant.”

“I’d planned to put him in charge. After having you as the supervisor, I don’t know. Do you’ve any suggestions?”

“You could do what Commander Wang did in Security. The other Lieutenant and I reported directly to her. I took a different shift, which avoided confrontations.”

“Good idea.”

* * * *

The officers had just finished a detailed tour of the bridge and all of its new gadgets when Commander Riddler pulled me aside. “I understand you’re having the section Chiefs give you personal tours.”

“Yes, Sir. Several of the Chiefs know me and my inherent curiosity. Apparently the Chief’s network got the word out. They volunteered to give me a tour in their free time and to include anyone interested. Commander Jacklin joined us last night.”

“Who’s your tour volunteer tonight?”

“Senior Chief Luckist, Sir.”

That night, Luckist found me with the XO and five other Lieutenants. For three days we crawled over missiles, examined the tracks that carried them, and reviewed the safeguards. Ten separate panels connected to the bridge controlled the firing of the missiles. In the event that one or more of the automatic controls failed, electronic and manual cranks on each track provided emergency backup. The tracks looked like a belt from an old-fashioned machine gun. This mechanism permitted the missiles to be fired at a rate two times faster than the standard SAS cruiser. The missiles could also be fired manually if the Weapons officer’s control panel failed.

At the end of the three days, Riddler again pulled me aside. “I see why you do it, Reese. I know the theory well, but seeing, touching, and examining the machinery gives an insight that would be useful on the bridge. It provides a better understanding of what’s happening when things go wrong.” He stopped and looked at me. “You seem to take a mechanic’s interest in the equipment. You’re a Lieutenant and should supervise, not fix.”

“Sir, I find knowing what you’re talking about, understanding what your people do, and taking an interest improves moral and the work environment. I would love to fix it when there’s a problem, but that would be seen as lacking faith in their skills.”

“Why every department including the Scorpions?”

“The Captain intends to rotate me, so I’ll eventually be assigned to each department. The Scorpions because I work out there and have good friends, who fought with me on Saipha. A Riss-human has trouble making friends, so I cherish the ones I have.”

“Your friends are very lucky. This ship’s loaded with them and each one has benefited from that friendship. The ship’s one of a kind and everyone would like to be assigned to it. Moreover, it’ll put everyone here on a fast track for promotion, or a promotion like in Commander Jacklin’s case. You seem to be the only one who hasn’t benefited.” He watched me closely as if he expected something.

“I’ve benefited, Commander. My reward is getting the Riss recognition and one step closer to acceptance. I put up with the hate and viciousness only for their sake. Otherwise Captain Gebauer would have driven me out of service long ago.”

He nodded without saying anything.

<Make me proud, Sister.>

* * * *

I sat in Captain Jordanno’s office two weeks later. The previous day the Tiger had officially been declared operational, and would be leaving Hercules  in two days. The office was smaller than Captain Gebauer’s, as was everything on the Tiger, but subtly more elegant. The chairs covered in a rich-blue fabric and well-cushioned, the desk a rare black wood from Wallowa in the Oracle Sector, several monitors spread around the room, a carpet with the Tiger’s emblem embroidered in the center, and pictures of SAS cruisers, including the Peregrine.

“Reese, my XO informed me that you seem to have the confidence of every Chief on the Tiger  and are qualified in all departments. So my dilemma is where do I rotate you and why do I need to? I can’t put you in charge of anything since each section has someone who outranks you.”

The Captain didn’t seem to be asking me a question. More like he was thinking out loud. Besides it wasn’t my decision to make. I stayed very quiet and gazed at his chest. Staring at him wouldn’t have been right.

“Commander Uchida would like you as her backup Navigator; however, she already has a Lieutenant Commander assigned to her, as does everyone on the bridge.”

<Could join Scorpions. Could transfer you another ship.>

I had trouble not smiling, but did manage to keep it to a slight twitch of the lips.

<Thalia, this is no time for smart remarks.>

“I imagine Thalia has found something funny.” The Captain smiled.

I thought that a good sign. Gebauer would have come out of his chair screaming.

“I assume she has a suggestion,” he added.

“Yes, Sir. Sorry.”

He dismissed the incident with a small hand wave. “It’s unusual but I think I’ll rotate you through the bridge stations. I can justify that, as you’re an SAS special project, and Commander Uchida wants you on the bridge. Commander Wang would also like some of your time. I’ll leave it to you and whomever you’re apprenticing under to determine how to work it out. Begin with Commander Kollar. You’ve impressed her while on the Peregrine. Dismissed.”

I decided to go see Commander Wang, since Commander Kollar’s backup, Lieutenant Commander Buckman, currently sat at the weapons station.

Chapter 23

Angela Ja’Oyrat had returned from a visit to Tamerland city. She’d been trained to be a spy from an early age, when her preciousness had caught the eye of the Elders. She loved playing parts, and being naturally beautiful helped. One could always make oneself look plain but it was extremely difficult, if not impossible, to make oneself beautiful. She had played at being a wealthy traveler, housewife, poor beggar, prostitute, and trader. The various identities were as easy for her to assume as changing clothes. Those efforts always paid off with useful information, which frequently was secret or privileged.

Her grandfather’s ship, the Compton, looked similar to any other merchant ship. The differences weren’t immediately apparent and would go unnoticed in a normal inspection. Upgrades included a more sophisticated control suite, a concealed bank of lasers, and slightly larger than normal engines. Like other merchants, her grandfather traded goods purchased elsewhere, carried cargo from one location to another, and belonged to the Merchant’s guild.

“Grandfather, I’ve heard an interesting rumor, which I believe has a basis in fact. We’ve assumed that the failures on Saipha and Tamerland were attributable to bad luck. To some degree that’s true—however, I now believe the bad luck has a name—Nadya Reese.” Angela smiled as she sat down with her cup of kaffa. Her grandfather’s office was intentionally modest. One didn’t want to give the impression of being well off and able to afford to pay higher prices. Alternatively, one didn’t want to appear poor and desperate for business.

The chair Angela sat in was well-cushioned and comfortable but the material slightly worn. Rares Ja’Oyrat’s desk was made of a standard quality wood. The pictures of various cities gave a warm touch to the plain steelplex walls, and a plain rug hid most of the steel gray floor.

“She’s one of the ten Riss-humans originally produced under the Riss Project. No one knows what she did at Tamerland, but she was awarded the Silver Star. We know she clearly proved a factor on Saipha.”

“And your conclusion?” Rares asked, smiling in his good-natured way. It didn’t fool Angela. He could be devious and as deadly as she; however, his easygoing merchant trader facade never changed.

“We may have less bad luck if she were dead.”

Rares sat back in his chair and took a sip of his favorite whisky. It was over a hundred years old and rare. He nursed it because he only had one case left. It hadn’t come from Earth. People who’d inherited a several generation-old family secret had made it. Angela could see her grandfather’s satisfied look. Fortunately, she didn’t like the taste.

“We may lose a deep cover spy if you do. Have you thought of that?” Rares nodded. “Of course, you have. You don’t need my permission, granddaughter.”

“No, grandfather, but I value your advice.” In fact, she worked directly for the Elders and could order Rares to take any action she thought necessary. Rares smiled. Angela loved her grandfather. He’d raised her once the Elders decided she would make a good spy. He’d always been gentle, even when he reprimanded her for something she’d done wrong. Others considered him ruthless and cold-hearted as a viper. She was also ruthless and cold-hearted but retained a bit of humanity by truly loving and respecting her grandfather.

“Yes, we could use a little less bad luck, granddaughter.” Rares raised his glass to her.

* * * *

The Baptiste Clan had clan members everywhere. Mostly they were deep cover agents, pretending to be travelers or settlers, who stayed only a few years. There were few colonies where the clan only had paid contacts. Angela knew everyone. They were coded into her handheld—a very special device that used symbols for words and letters, and that would destroy all of its contents if the right sequence of symbols weren’t entered when it was turned on.

This evening Angela dressed like a commoner. Tonight the streets she walked wouldn’t be as safe as in the daytime. She didn’t worry; she was as dangerous as she was beautiful. She turned into a narrow alley where she could have touched the houses on each side by extending her arms. The houses were attached, old, and in desperate need of repair. The alley was littered with foul-smelling debris, which would remain until the next rain. She stopped and knocked on a decrepit green door and waited.

“Yes,” came the reply from behind the door. It didn’t open. Angela looked around but saw no one.

“An Angel to see you.” She smiled—the idea amused her every time she gave that identifying phrase. She admitted to herself that she did have the face of an angel, but not the bleeding heart. Her heart belonged to the clan and its cause. The door opened and a broad unshaven man peered through the narrow opening. Angela’s hand shot up, her finger at his throat. She pushed as she walked in. He choked while stumbling backward. Once inside, she closed the door with her foot.

“Good morning, Tamas Ja’Shar. The clan sends greetings. I need to get a message to someone on Eden’s new Hunter warship.” Angela knew Tamas’s contact was his alleged wife, who lived on Lan Breeze with two kids. She was another clan member with the appropriate contacts. The message should read as follows:

Rachel is safe; somehow her friend wasn’t so lucky. She was killed.”

Angela looked around the room. Fortunately it was dimly lit. In daylight, the stained walls, garbage lying on the tables, and worn furniture would have been overpowering. Despite appearances, he’s clan and reliable, she mused. She threw a package containing a thousand credits on the table, knocking off several dishes and old containers. “Immediately.”

He smiled as he picked up the envelope.

“Yes, my angel. Today.”

* * * *

“Well, Angela, have you taken care of your business?” Rares asked when she returned late that evening. Still dressed like a lower-class working woman, she intentionally looked tired.

“Yes, grandfather. A woman’s work is never done: washing clothes, cooking meals, shopping for food with too little money, and looking after the children—not to mention having them.”

Rares laughed long and hard, handing her a cup of kaffa. Angela never drank or took mind-alternating substances for pleasure. While working, she had to for effect, but only after she’d also taken something to nullify the effect. She was a very careful woman.

“It would be easier to visualize you with wings.” He laughed again and took a sip of the wine he was drinking.

“I’ll have you know a man called me his Angel just tonight.” She lifted her chin and turned her head slightly for a better profile.

“After you gave him how much money?”

They both laughed.

Chapter 24

“You know Kurt, I didn’t think I’d make it into the Blacks. I’m better than I thought,” Owin said as he sprawled on his cot.

“You’re not.” Blackstone laughed. “I had to call in a favor to get your scores switched with someone who’d qualified.”

“Why?”

“We’ve got a score to settle. I thought you wouldn’t want to be deprived of the pleasure. You’re still interested, aren’t you?”

“Oh, little miss dirty face. Yes, I’d like to see that bitch get hers. But how are we going to do that? I don’t want to be caught or hurt, so they know who did it.” Owin looked around the empty room.

“I’m told she still works part-time for Intelligence and there’s that long unguarded hallway.” Blackstone walked over to his locker and removed two Buzz sticks.

“My God, Kurt. Where did you get those? With those she couldn’t get close to us without being paralyzed, and a few seconds contact will kill her.” Owin jumped up and ran over to inspect them. Blackstone looked at each before handing one to Owin. When Owin gripped the handle and thumbed the switch, it began buzzing.

“While the Peregrine  was being blown apart, I managed to get into the weapons room and appropriate our riot clubs. They’re keyed to us. No one else can use them. We’ll catch her between us, so she can’t run.”

“I’m going to love seeing her suffer. Not being able to do anything as we hit her again and again. Won’t it be easier to use our shard guns?”

“Think for a minute. If we use shard guns, the security guards at Intelligence will think it’s an attack and call for a lockdown. There are less than ten senior people who can open a locked-down door—none who like us. We’ll be trapped somewhere we shouldn’t be with used shard guns. On the other hand, they’ll call security rather than leave their post if they think it’s a fight. Afterward we can touch our Buzz sticks together, which will destroy them. We can just leave them lying there with her. They’ll no longer be traceable to us.” Blackstone tapped his head.

“How will we know when she’s alone? And what about the guards calling security?” Owin said as he swung the baton-like stick back and forth.

“Little details that still have to be worked out. Soon, Owin, soon.”

* * * *

I made my way down the little used level-two corridor, until I came to the two guards stationed at the entrance to the Intelligence complex. They looked familiar, but they stood straighter, if that was possible. They didn’t show any sign of recognition. Their uniforms had the Scorpion patch on their arms, and they wore the new Black Berets. It appeared they had replaced navy security, because of the limited space on the Hunter.

One of them spoke. “Your ID, ma’am.”

I handed over my ID and waited. I assumed Commander Wang would have taken care of my authorization to the area. A few moments later, he stepped aside for me to pass. “Thank you, ma’am.”

I was surprised when I entered; the room was smaller; and there were fewer people and less equipment.

<We have our ubiquitous Lieutenant protecting her space.>

<You assume, little one.>

An officer approached. “Lieutenant Reese, I’m Lieutenant Iglis. Welcome aboard. If you’ll accompany me, please, Commander Wang is expecting you.”

Iglis was a tall woman with a long narrow nose and face, which didn’t seem to go with her blond hair. I liked her friendly smile, and Thalia didn’t detect any strong emotions. Iglis knocked and almost immediately opened the door for me to enter. She was getting ready to close the door when Wang shook her head.

“Stay, Iglis. It’s good to see you again, Reese. There’s kaffa on the table in the corner.” Wang waited for Iglis and me to get kaffa and sit before she began again. “I’d like you to work with Lieutenant Iglis. I know you had trouble with Hendrix; however, I believe you and Iglis will get along. You’ll have to coordinate with her because you won’t be here full-time. Do you know how much time the Captain will allow you?”

“Not exactly. He said I should work it out with whoever is my current commander. It doesn’t matter. I’m willing to put in whatever time you and Lieutenant Iglis believe necessary.” I wondered if Master Chief Arnet had been assigned to the Hunter. It seemed Wang read my mind.

“Arnet will be pleased to see you. The Master Chief and Reese love to disassemble our equipment for the joy of putting it back together again, much to Lieutenant Hendrix’s chagrin.”

“I’ll have to talk to the Chief. Maybe he’ll show me how.” Iglis smiled at me. I liked her. She seemed easy-going and apparently didn’t mind working with a Riss-human.

<Good person. Likes taking things apart.>

My lip twitched.

<The least you could do is stop that twitch.>

<Would ruin fun.>

Wang grinned—she’d seen the twitch. “Iglis, you have to learn to ignore her sudden attempts not to smile. Her Riss, Thalia, is saying something funny. Apparently, she enjoys life and also likes taking things apart.”

Iglis nodded. “Reese, if you don’t mind, I would appreciate hearing more about the Riss when you’ve free time. It sounds fascinating.”

For the next hour, Wang brought me up to date on the Compton and my Riss-human friends. Lieutenant Damion had decided to return to Saipha; however, he intended to live there with his Riss. The constant hassling and biased treatment had caused him to give in. With his Riss’s consent, he resigned. The other four were surviving for now, although they continue to receive similar discrimination.

“Well, what do you think, Reese?” Wang asked, when she’d finished.

I’d given it some thought, but it was still speculation. “If I were the raiders, I wouldn’t be anxious to put people on the ground again. That would mean attacking small colonies like Corona, or merchant ships. From what you’ve said, they don’t appear to suspect that we’re onto the Compton. I’d continue to watch it and evaluate its stops against any future raids.” I shrugged.

“We agree and have been doing just that. You should go over our findings with Iglis. You’ll have fresh eyes.”

I left the office with Iglis, who introduced me to the current staff. I was pleased to find Petty Officers Phalan and Wunk. It was becoming obvious that the powers-that-be had made an effort to fill the available slots with people with whom I was friendly. They’d picked well. We found Arnet with his head inside one of the group’s secret communication devices.

<Good man.> Thalia laughed. The Chief looked up as we approached.

“Ma’am, it’s good to see you again. Are you here to help me fix this machine?” He grinned.

“I’d love to, but they keep telling me I’m not supposed to fix things.” I stood staring at the inside of the device. “Of course, they never said Thalia couldn’t.”

Arnet and Iglis laughed. Like everything else on the Tiger, the equipment had been upgraded and constituted the latest available. I let them know that I wasn’t aware of my schedule. Although it may have to be on the second or third shift, I would find at least several hours each day.

I made my way back to the bridge where Commander Kollar was sitting at the weapons console. She was a medium-size woman with short-cut dark-maroon hair. Her face was round with a turned-up nose and olive complexion. Judging by the ribbons on her uniform, she’d been in service over twenty-one years, earned the Silver Star and had a JPU Battle Ribbon for action against the Johaba People’s Union—a well-decorated officer.

“Commander Kollar, the Captain asked me to report to you for training.”

“Relax, Reese. We can’t afford ceremony on the bridge. Respect without the pomp. I understand you arranged a tour of the Weapons equipment.”

“Senior Chief Luckist conducted the tour, ma’am.”

“At your request. I’m in your debt. Now Riddler will actually understand when I tell him something about weapons he doesn’t want to hear.” She grinned. I wasn’t sure how to respond and decided an answer wasn’t required. Kollar pointed to the empty seat next to her. “Sit.”

She expected me to review one chapter of the weapon’s operations manual each day. Subsequently, she would review the material with me, answer any questions, and test my understanding. Two days of every week I would spend time in the Tiger’s simulator. Kollar would program a variety of enemy spaceship scenarios and use the results to provide me with additional training and evaluation.

“I expect you to do most of the work. I’m here to guide your studies and help if you’ve problems. Reese, you and...Thalia aren’t allowed to dismantle my weapons console,” Kollar said seriously and shook her head.

<How we suppose to learn?>

I smiled at Kollar’s jibe about my tendency to like looking inside things and Thalia’s disappointment.

<Guess we’ll have to read about it.>

<Think allow shoot missiles?>

<Probably not.>

* * * *

Over the following weeks, I fell into a comfortable routine. Up early to work out in the Scorpions’ area with Master Valk and his team, shower and breakfast, four to six hours of study, and an hour or two with Kollar, who tested my understanding of the material. Afterward, several hours with Lieutenant Iglis, reviewing the Compton’s stops and trying to determine the likelihood that one of them represented a potential target. The problem was we didn’t know what we were looking for. Although several of their stops appeared likely targets, we had no tangible reason to suggest staking one out.

Thalia and I enjoyed the simulator the best. The missiles on the Tiger were the latest and very versatile. They could be programmed to perform a variety of functions. First their power could be varied during flight. This allowed the missile to be launched at slower speeds for long distances or rapid speeds for short distances. The missiles could be programmed to use multiple sensing methods: heat, optical, or target identification. We discovered the missile could also be launched as a dumb projectile, similar to a bullet from an old-fashioned gun. Ten preset configurations had been programmed into the weapons console, although the Tactical officer could modify them on the fly. The preset solutions covered most of the likely configurations.

Thalia and I became fascinated with using the missile as a simple projectile. Each session we spent at least an hour working on the problem. In the beginning, we missed the target all the time. Using the preset configurations, we scored well.

“Reese, why you do insist on trying to kill the enemy ship with basic projectiles? The people who designed this missile didn’t intend for you to turn off their wonderful features.”

“I like the idea of it being immune to all of the enemy’s ECM. That means only their lasers can stop them and that’s difficult to do under normal conditions.”

“Just remember that during your test exercises only your score matters. I don’t care what solution you use. You’ll fail using projectiles. You know the material. I’d hate your record marred with low test scores.” I knew Kollar was concerned that my performance in the simulator didn’t adversely affect my overall rating.

<We make work. Math close.>

<I agree.>

So Thalia and I continued working on a formula for using dumb projectiles. Each session we got closer. After weeks of work, we found a set of equations that proved reasonably successful in our limited tests. I would have liked more time to test our theory, but Kollar decided it was time for a mid-rotation evaluation.

The next day she took me into the Captain’s conference room.

“Reese, today is your mid-rotation evaluation. I’ve a one-hundred-question test. You’ve only two hours to complete it. After that, I’ve set up an enemy attack scenario in the simulator. A minimum of seventy percent is required on the written test, and thirty percent on the simulation to pass.” Kollar set a chronometer on the desk and sat back to monitor the test.

Even without Thalia’s help, I considered the test easy. With her help, I knew I’d scored one hundred percent. I finished in a little over an hour.

“Are you sure you don’t want more time?” Kollar asked.

“No thank you, ma’am.”

Kollar took away the test paper and spent fifteen minutes reviewing it. She looked up at me and shook her head. “Of course, you know it’s perfect.” She laughed. “I’ll want you to know I spent six hours preparing it to ensure no one could get them all correct. Okay Reese, off to the simulator, let’s see how you are at practice. I’ll warn you again that you’ll fail if you trying using projectiles.” She led me to the simulator. “This problem will take fifteen minutes. It’ll begin when you press the ‘Start’ button. Your task is to get as many hits on the enemy’s two ships as you can. Since you can’t control the movement of your ship or the ECM, hits against your ship wouldn’t count against you. Do you understand?”

I nodded and entered the simulator.

<Well Thalia, should we try our equations? The results reflect on you as much as me.>

<We high-Riss, Sister.>

<Yes, Sister.>

I activated the simulator, loaded our mathematical equations, and hit the “Start” button. Immediately, the sensors detected two enemy aircraft. I read off the speed, direction, and spatial position of the first enemy ship, loaded the information into our equations, and hit the firing button. Ten missiles burst from the ship heading for the first target. I computed the positions for the second ship and again hit the firing button. With nothing else to do, I sat back to watch.

<This exciting.>

I could feel her excitement. I watched with mixed emotions. <Like juggling knives.>

<That would be fun.>

Thalia was incurable.

The missiles appeared to be right on target. As they approached enemy number one, the ship’s ECM started with anti-missiles, then followed with chaff. None of which affected our unguided projectiles. As they got closer, the enemy’s lasers took over and managed to kill three, four missed the ship and three hit, destroying it. I turned my attention to enemy number two. These missiles seemed to be slightly off target. In the end, six missed, two were destroyed and two scored direct hits.

Kollar was fascinated. “I want that formula, Reese. You’ve just made a perfectly useless weapon into a powerful secret weapon.”

“It’s not ready, ma’am. It needs more work. Fifty percent of the missiles missed.”

<I agree. Not ready.>

“Fifty percent hit. Wait for me in the Captain’s conference.” She turned and walked towards the bridge.

<We fail?>

<I don’t think so. The object was to hit the other ships. We did, although only five of the twenty hit. If they consider that twenty-five percent, it wouldn’t be a passing score.>

I’d just settled down when the Captain entered followed by Kollar and Uchida, who were smiling. The next two hours were spent discussing the formula and the concept behind it. The idea of shooting unguided projectiles went out in the twenty-second century with gun power; however, Kollar and Uchida were fascinated with the equations. The Captain left when the discussion turned exclusively mathematical.

Kollar allotted me more time with the simulator to work on improving the equations. I also found that killing one of the enemy ships was considered one hundred percent.

<Guess we scored two hundred.>

Thalia’s laugh tingled to my toes.

Things changed very little over the next weeks. Our formula continued to evolve with a general improvement in the results. Kollar and Uchida reviewed every change with interest. I was told not to store any of the formulas in my assigned area and was given separate space for our Navigation and Weapons equations. The formulas were designated restricted access and only accessible with special passcodes. I was instructed not to discuss them with anyone not on the list. If these equations worked, the number of hits on enemy ships would improve significantly. The methodology had exceeded the improvement in missile technology; therefore, it was classified as an SAS secret.

Life felt good. The strange looks continued when people passed me and some even moved away like I might be contagious; however, I had quite a few friends, most of whom were senior. These set a friendly atmosphere, which influenced the overall crew’s attitude.

Chapter 25

I woke with a shock when I heard metal hit the floor of my room. Immediately afterward, a gray cloud burst into the air. Just as quickly my world turned black.

Consciousness returned slowly. I could hear people talking but couldn’t open my eyes or move a muscle. I couldn’t be dead or I wouldn’t be able to hear. If I were trapped in my mind with no way to communicate, it may be worse than being dead.

“What happened, Sergeant?”

I recognized Captain Jordanno and Master Sergeant Terril’s voices.

“I don’t know, Captain. Gunny Valk called Lieutenant Reese when she didn’t show for her morning workout. She failed to answer her SID, so he sent me to investigate. It’s rare for her to miss a session and not call to let him know. When I arrived, I smelled something strange outside her door and immediately felt sick. I backed away and called medical and security, informing them I thought it might be a poisonous gas and suggesting they wear protective masks.”

Terril began coughing. It seemed like hours before she stopped.

“Sorry, Sir. Her door was locked, so the XO had to use the system to unlock it. They found her in bed and a metal canister on the floor. It had no markings. They thought she was dead and brought her to medical to determine the cause of death.”

“Doctor Echart?”

“She’s alive but we’ve a dilemma. Her ID and her medical records stipulate that we’re not to treat her without her written consent. That restriction includes the use of medical scanning and diagnostic equipment. Since she can’t communicate with us, I can’t take any action to determine her condition. If she’s in a coma, we might be able to bring her out of it. On the other hand, she may be brain dead and there’s nothing we could do. Judging by Master Sergeant Terril’s injuries, she was exposed to a nerve gas. It appears to be something similar to cyanogen chloride. If so, she should be dead.”

“Surely this is a special circumstance, and you would be justified in evaluating her condition?” The Captain sounded exasperated.

“Normally I would agree, Captain; however, this is an SAS council order. I’m not sure I would do it even if you ordered it, Sir.” Now the Doctor sounded exasperated.

“I’ll authorize it. We can’t let her die because of some order incapable of conceiving every possible consequence of such a decision.” The Captain’s voice had risen as he spoke. “I’ll put it in writing if necessary.”

<Thalia?>

<No little one. Not dead. Saw smoke decided poison. Closed down breathing. Enough oxygen in lungs. Last many hours. Take time get everything working. Stop Doctor.>

“No,” I shouted. It came out a whisper.

“She said something,” Terril said before she started coughing again. I could feel breathing against my face and assumed someone had leaned closer to me.

“No, treat—” was all I could get out.

“Well, that answers that, Captain. She’s refusing treatment. From her records, she did the same after she had been injured in a gas explosion. I have to assume she understands the consequences.”

“Okay, Doctor, keep me appraised of her and Terril’s progress.”

I heard footsteps fading away.

<Sleep. Have poison in system. Keep quiet until repair damage.>

* * * *

When I finally regained consciousness, I felt relaxed and had no discomfort.

<Have good doctor.>

I felt Thalia laugh and had to agree. When I sat up, I felt dizzy for a minute, but it passed quickly. I found myself in a small room with two beds. Terril lay in the other bed, looking at a holograph her SID had created.

“How are you doing, Terril?”

She jerked around and dropped her SID.

“Ma’am, you’re alive. You’re sitting up. It’s a miracle. You should be dead,” she rambled on.

“Sorry to disappoint. What day is it?” I had no idea how long Thalia had required to repair my lungs and whatever else she’d done. I smiled at Terril to let her know it had been a bad joke.

“Ma’am, I didn’t mean... You know that. You’ve been in a coma for two days. I’m to be released later today if my test results are good. You’ve had all sorts of visitors over the two days. Gunny and the other Chiefs, Colonel Quentin, and several Commanders.”

“I’m glad you got them in the correct order of importance.”

Terril turned red. I laughed until tears ran down my face. “Relax, Terril. Everyone knows who keeps the ship running.”

When the Doctor arrived, he seemed shocked to see me up. I allowed him to give me a physical examination and to take a blood sample.

“How? The Riss?” he asked. I nodded.

“Yes, Doctor. Thalia, my Riss, put me in a comatose state to eliminate the need to breathe. Even so, I did inhale a small amount of the gas. She’s been cleaning out the poison for the past two days.”

“Thalia seems to be quite the doctor—but why no medical treatment?”

<Smart man.>

I smiled, which the doctor probably assumed was meant for him.

“We can’t be sure that a procedure harmless to you or me wouldn’t damage Thalia. It’s better to err on the side of safety.”

If the machines kill her to save me, I’d rather die too. Neither of us could exist without the other.

<Understand, Sister.>

Before I could get out of bed and get dressed, I had several visitors. My eyes were moist when the last one left. I’ve made good friends, I reflected with choked up emotions. To them, I’m not a freak.

* * * *

“How are you feeling, Lieutenant? I can put you on inactive duty if you need more time to recover,” Jordanno said. I sat in his office with a cup of kaffa, being treated like a recovering invalid.

“No, Sir. I’m fully recovered.” I’d slept for two days and was ready to get back to work.

“Your Riss must be some doctor.” He had his full attention on me, as if to monitor my every move. “Everyone tells me the gas was a form of cyanogen chloride. You should be dead.”

“Yes, Thalia saved my life—twice. She stopped my breathing immediately and put me in a comatose state, so that I could survive long enough to be rescued, and she cleaned out the little poison I did inhale.”

“Why refuse medical help? There maybe situations where only our medical equipment can save you.” He took a sip of kaffa and leaned forward.

“I don’t want to take the chance that the equipment could kill Thalia. If she can’t repair me, we’ll be too damaged to live. I know you’ll have trouble understanding this. She can’t live if I die, and I would rather not live if she dies.” The minute I said it, I wish I could have taken it back. Not that it wasn’t the truth. I felt the need to clarify in terms he could relate to. “Each of us has a right and left side to our brain. They’re separate, yet they work together. You could separate them, but you wouldn’t have the same person. I know that’s what would happen if Thalia died.”

“What if for some reason you were sent back to Saipha to return the Riss?” He didn’t seem repulsed or upset, just interested.

<Thalia?>

<One for life.>

“Thalia just said we’re one for life. We’d stay together and live there until we died.”

<Remove tattoo. We travel.>

Thalia laughed sending waves of pure joy through my system. Of course I couldn’t help smiling.

“That smile at inappropriate times takes some getting used to. Thalia seems to have a good sense of humor.”

Yes, Thalia had a sense of humor, but I wasn’t sure everyone enjoyed it.

“Yes, Sir. She enjoys everything and finds it fun.”

The Captain nodded and changed subjects, apparently satisfied with my physical and mental health.

“Do you know any person or reason someone would want to kill you, Reese?”

“Sir, I don’t believe it was personal. The individual stole my SID. When I was attacked before, it was personal. That attacker wanted me to know who was doing it before I died. This attacker wanted me dead but made no attempt to identify himself. He or she wanted me dead for some other reason. Taking my SID proved that.”

“So, you think it was to get your SID?”

“Oh, the attacker wanted me dead; however, he also wanted the SID. He’s going to find out it doesn’t contain any useful information, even if he could get past the password lock. It seems like someone wants me dead, but it isn’t personal.”

“Personal or not, we’re conducting a thorough search, hoping he hasn’t gotten rid of it. What concerns me is how someone was able to open your door. The system controls access through an individual’s SID. Since your SID was in your room, someone had access to the system; however only senior officers are supposed to have such access. I’ll have the system checked. It should reveal the name of the person who opened your door.” He stood, signaling the end to our discussion.

* * * *

The physical search failed to find the missing SID, and the system search revealed nothing. They issued me a new SID with all the necessary links to the ship and Intelligence’s computer.

* * * *

A beeping sound woke me. I rolled out of bed and turned on my new SID. Lieutenant Iglis’s face appeared.

“I know it’s late, but the raiders struck at Lingwood. They knocked out their defense system, killed a lot of civilians, stole their store of Ling Wine Reserve, and seized the merchant ship Farsee.” Iglis paused. “The Captain has changed course to Lingwood. Commander Wang would like to see you, if you aren’t required on the bridge.”

I could understand her excitement. We now had an attack that could possibly help us determine the raider’s new strategy and their next target.

“I’ll be there as soon as I can get dressed.”

I dressed in work blues as it was faster. In my haste, I almost ran past the guards, stopping just in time. Running past them wouldn’t have been a good idea. They had no sense of humor and probably would have shot me. They knew everyone in the Intelligence group but still checked their ID every time. When I reached Commander Wang’s office, Iglis was already there. Before I could say anything, Wang waved me to the other chair. Wang’s office had two overhead monitors mounted on adjacent walls. They were filled, with pictures on the top and running text on the bottom. The pictures told of the devastation the raiders had wreaked, while the text provided more comprehensive information.

“I’ve asked the Captain to detour to Lingwood. He agreed, although we aren’t equipped to provide much assistance. I’m hoping this attack will provide us with enough information to extrapolate the raiders’ new strategy.” Wang leaned back in her chair, watching the monitors like they contained the answer. “We’ll arrive in Lingwood three days from now.”

Iglis and I left to begin analyzing the information.

“What do you think, Reese? It doesn’t seem worth the effort just to steal Ling Wine. Unless they considered the slaves and wine combined worth it. The Farsee  was probably a lucky break.” Iglis paced back and forth while voicing various options. I sat in one of the conference room’s chairs quietly staring at a monitor. The raiders had destroyed all of the docking station and much of the town. The dead were everywhere. I could imagine that Corona looked just like this after the raiders had struck there. I knew we were missing something. The raiders had military-grade warships and had in the past gone after high value prizes. This didn’t seem to fit the pattern.

A search of the movements the Compton had made revealed it had stopped in Lingwood several months previously and fifty cases had been purchased. Iglis and I had come up with several possible scenarios. None felt right. Exhausted, I returned to bed several hours later.

I returned to the bridge on time and began working on the projectile problem again. Although Thalia and I had achieved a seventy percent hit rate, we were determined to improve the accuracy. Each time we changed one of the equations, we tested it in the simulator.

Kollar gave me another reading assignment and sent me off to study or rest as I saw fit.

* * * *

Three days later we orbited Lingwood. The medical team grabbed the first shuttle. The second and third shuttles had Scorpions to keep order and help with the cleanup. Commander Wang had insisted that she, Iglis, and I be part of the landing party. Two Scorpions were assigned to accompany each of us. We split up almost immediately. I headed for what I thought to be the poorer part of town, for no other reason than it seemed right to me. As I did, I noticed two Scorpions peel off with me. I recognized Master Sergeant Terril and waved them closer.

“How you doing, Terril? Are you planning on saving my life again? I couldn’t have lasted too much longer in that room without oxygen.”

“Fairs fair. You saved our lives back on Saipha,” Terril said with a small chuckle. “This is Corporal Beal.”

Beal nodded when I looked in his direction. He was being far more attentive to the surrounding area. Terril looked at ease, but I would have bet she hadn’t missed the smallest detail. I stopped to talk to people as we walked along. This area hadn’t taken the same destruction as the other side of town because they didn’t have significant weapons to put up much of a struggle. I learned that this was one of Lingwood’s busiest times of the year, as they prepared for the Farsee’s semi-annual pickup of the Ling Reserve Wine. The Farsee stopped every six months to buy their total inventory of wine and stayed for the semi-annual Ling festival.

Chapter 26

The day dragged by slowly. By its end, I had a splitting headache from the pain and suffering I’d witnessed. Even Thalia remained quiet. Everywhere I went, death, despair, and destruction greeted me. Loved ones had been killed, or captured and taken away in the raider’s ship, the Cobra. Adding to their misery, their humble shacks had been destroyed. They were poor and had no money to build new homes and barely enough to buy food. I wished there was something I could do to ease their pain, but there wasn’t. Maybe the ones who had died were the lucky ones.

<Humans cruel, little one. Wonder why Riss should join them.>

<Because you have no choice, my Sister. You must join them to free yourselves.>

<You see future, Sister. Hope live to find home among stars.>

<At least our goal is clear.>

<Yes.>

The Captain had decided to stay a few extra days to give the medical staff time to help with the wounded, the crew to repair Lingwood’s systems, and the Scorpions to help with cleaning up. I went to the mess hall but found I wasn’t hungry. I decided to retire early. I undressed and lay down but couldn’t get to sleep. Scenes of destruction keep flashing before me.

<Thalia, I need help sleeping.>

The last thing I heard was Thalia.

<Good night, little one.>

* * * *

I woke rested, if not enthusiastic. I had no duties on the bridge and didn’t feel like working on anything, so I wandered down to the Intelligence section. By now Iglis and Wang should be looking at the stops planned for the Compton over the next several weeks. When I entered, I found Iglis with Wang in the conference room. Both looked depressed and exhausted. They were looking at streams of data scrolling across the monitor’s screen.

“Good morning. Have you found the next likely site yet?” I asked. Surely the Compton had stopped at many colonies during the past two months. At least one or two should have potential targets.

“No. We’d hoped this attack would give us a lead. So many died and are suffering, and we learned nothing,” Wang said without looking away from the monitor. “All that’s obvious is that they’ve changed their previous pattern.”

<They not know what we know.>

<I hope I’m right.>

“They’re after merchant ships,” I said into the silence. Their heads snapped up but they said nothing, just stared. I didn’t know if they’d heard me. I repeated my statement. “They’re after merchant ships.”

“That makes sense, but how does that help us?” Wang asked hesitantly. “They also stole wine and kidnapped many of the locals, who they’ll undoubtedly sell at the JPU slave markets. What makes you think the merchant ship wasn’t an unexpected bonus?”

I stood silent, wondering why they didn’t see it. Can I be wrong?  It seemed so obvious.

<Need time digest. Hard think. Much pain.>

“The Farsee stops at Lingwood every six months to pick up wine and stays for the Ling Wine festival. They always stay five days. The wine and slaves were the bonus.”

Wang vaulted out of her seat.

“Iglis, get Phalan and Wunk in here with all the information they have on the Compton since it stopped at Lingwood. I want dates, length of stay, and cargo. Now!” she shouted, excited. The subsequent search revealed an interesting anomaly. The Compton seemed to disappear for weeks at a time. It would visit several colonies and then disappear, arriving at its next scheduled designation weeks late. Subsequently, the raiders attacked one or more of those colonies the Compton had visited prior to disappearing. The pattern was far too consistent to be coincidental. One of those mysterious disappearances occurred prior to Lingwood. On Lingwood they’d purchased fifty cases of Ling Reserve wine before proceeding on the to Earthtol, Sparrows Nest, Ossicwater, Port Lost, and Lords Landing. After Lords Landing, they disappeared again and Lingwood was attacked.

“Obviously, they visit four to six colonies, looking for targets and collecting information. When they find one or two targets, they rendezvous with the raiders,” Wang said, summarizing what Iglis, Arnet, and I had discovered after combing through months of records. Now we sat searching for some piece of information that would suggest their next target. We were all tired and sat drinking taffa in an effort to stay awake. It had been over twenty-four hours since anyone had slept.

“If we’re right, Lingwood was the first of Compton’s stops after the rendezvous. That means it’s very possible one or more of the colonies on its subsequent stops, up to and including Lords Landing, is a potential target,” I said, thinking out loud.

“Unfortunately we don’t have any information to suggest which one it might be.” Iglis shrugged.

I conceded Iglis was right. Those five planets had little to justify a raid. We could find no obvious scheduled merchant activity. Merchants tended to be somewhat random and unpredictable, which worked to their advantage.

“I’ll talk to the Captain about visiting those colonies. Hopefully, we can find something that will help us determine their next target, before the raiders attack,” Wang said.

* * * *

The next day on the bridge, I sat with Kollar while the Tiger prepared to leave Lingwood for Earthtol. Eden had been notified of Lingwood’s needs and the Gyrfalcon scheduled to arrive in four days. I sat watching Kollar go over the pre-departure checklist. Using her SID, she’d walked through each item with Senior Chief Luckist to make sure the weapons systems were functional, munitions counted, and locked down. Then she verified her weapons panel was in working order before reporting “Weapons ready” to the XO.

“Normally, I would have a trainee, like yourself, watch the Chief verify the status of each item on the check list; however, I know you’ve had a three-day tour of the Weapons section. I doubt there’s anything you don’t already know. Yes, the Senior Chief and his crew do ninety-five percent of the work. A weapons officer is only necessary when the space-dross hits the fan.” She paused for several moments. I wasn’t sure if she was waiting for me to say or ask something. “By the way, I’ve loaded your projectile algorithms as another firing option. You may update them any time you create a new version. Just leave me a note of the changes.”

“Yes, ma’am. We’re working on improving the accuracy and reducing the time to execute. The two are related. The longer it takes the computer to calculate the enemy ship’s course the less accurate it becomes. The computer’s rather slow.”

Kollar laughed, causing most of the crew to look in her direction.

“If this keeps up, we’re going to have to rename the ship the Laughing Tiger,” Jordanno said and shook his head. A twitch of his lip ruined the rebuke.

“Sorry, Sir,” Kollar said, although she didn’t look  sorry. “So our computer’s slow, is it, Lieutenant Reese?”

“Well, I suppose it’s more the human interface—” I knew immediately that wasn’t the appropriate answer, although true.

“So, Lieutenant, your superior’s slow? Perhaps you think I’m so old I should retire, while I can still remember what to enter?”

“No, ma’am—”

She finally smiled. “Stop talking, Reese. When you’ve managed to say the wrong thing to your superior, it’s best to stop talking. Continuing to talk only makes it worse. We’re through for the day. Go study, or work on the projectile equations, or report to security. Actually, do all three.”

* * * *

We arrived at Earthtol two days later. Wang, Iglis, and I were on the first shuttle down. Like on Lingwood, our task was to find information that would indicate a merchant would be arriving within a predictable time period.

Earthtol descendents were originally from the United States of America and had originally settled on Eden. As Eden grew, some found the environment too restricted and decided to form a colony more like earth. Earthtol’s topology might be considered similar to old Earth, mostly water with a couple of continents; however, the weather was harsh. It was either scorching hot or freezing cold, depending on the continent and the season. A hundred years later, the cities had migrated underground, where the temperatures were consistent the entire year.

We landed on Anarticol, the coldest of the two continents, in midwinter. We stayed in the shuttle while the landing crew moved a small building on tracks towards us, until the building enclosed the shuttle. We discovered the building’s sides and top were covered with a flexible plastic fabric, which allowed it to expand in length and height. Once the shuttle was encased, they forced superheated air into the enclosure. Until then it had been unsafe for us to depart the shuttle or for crews to work. Outside temperatures over the year ranged from a minus sixty to a comfortable minus twenty-degrees Celsius. Shortly afterward, several vehicles arrived to transport us to the customs building. Colonel Quentin sent six dressed-down Scorpions with us to provide security, in case we decided to split up. The Captain had also included a small party to conduct a normal check-in briefing.

We entered through a large steelplex door, which closed, and hot air pumped in. When the inside temperature had risen to ten degrees Celsius, the inside door slid open. An escalator took us down two floors to the trams, which ran by request. You pressed the call button and several minutes later a tram arrived. Wang and her team exited at the control building on level ten to question the schedulers and those in the warehouse units.

Lieutenant Iglis exited at level seven, where the newer domes and the more affluent lived. I exited at level three, where the working class lived. Again Terril and a corporal companied me.

“Now that’s a view,” Terril said as the tram cleared the rock tunnel and entered the dome. The dome covered one square mile. The buildings varied in size. Shops and administration buildings were three or four stories. Living quarters ranged from six to eight stories. As we toured the town, it became obvious that the buildings were badly in need of repair. I wandered the stores looking at merchandise, ate a several small cafes, and found the residents easy to talk with. SAS personal were well-liked, and I was an attraction. Although it was an interesting tour, I learned nothing. Few ships came and went, and their schedules were erratic. Besides, it would be difficult to enter the underground city because the trams and elevators could be locked down.

We stayed two days.

* * * *

Wang, Iglis, and I sat in the conference room comparing notes as the Tiger  departed Earthtol.

“Well, Reese, did you find anything interesting?” Wang asked. I seemed to be expected to come up with inspiration when no one else did.

<I think they expect you and me to see things they don’t.>

<Do often. They shut down brains.>

I felt Thalia grin, which meant it wasn’t only funny but true. I answered Wang’s question: “No, the people were friendly but knew little. They’re isolated as a group and have little exposure to the outside world. The same ships tend to visit but on a random basis. When they do stop, it’s only because they had a reason to stop at a nearby system. It appears Earthtol’s space defenses are poor; however, their defenses under ground are excellent. It would be extremely difficult to infiltrate the city. You must have found out the same thing.”

“Yes,” Wang admitted. “Our next stop is Sparrows Nest. The one we’re looking for will probably be our last stop.”

Chapter 27

The flight to Sparrows Nest took three days. I spent much of my time working out with Master Valk.

“Your technique’s improved, Reese. As you know, Si’jin is based more on performance than most martial arts. Your rank is relative to your peers. It’s more a pecking order. You’re rated based on who you can consistently overcome, and conversely, those who can consistently overcome you. You could, therefore, lose or gain rank based on your performance. In this group you’re equal to Handel and lower than Terril. That’s correct for your current six knots. Unless?” Valk stopped talking for a minute. “What would you be like with your Riss’s help?”

“It wouldn’t be fair to judge my rank with Thalia’s help.” I loved Thalia and used her help when necessary; however, I strove to learn everything on my own. I reasoned that would enable Thalia to be even more effective in an emergency.

<All fair in war.>

<This isn’t war.>

<How about all fair practice war.>

I smiled although I hadn’t changed my mind.

“Why don’t we humor Thalia? I’m sure she would like to demonstrate her skill. You’ve been holding her back.”

<Yes. Smart man.>

“It would be unfair and could create problems,” I replied. How would someone who’s better than me feel if I beat him or her?  I had good friends here and didn’t want to jeopardize that.

“Fine, fight me. I’m the one who’s curious and interested in testing myself against an opponent with less skill and superior speed.”

<Thalia?>

<Think skill dominate at half speed.>

Thalia’s laugh relaxed me. Yes, half speed will be fair and unlikely to cause problems, yet it’ll be a reasonable demonstration.

“All right, Master Valk,” I agreed reluctantly.

As we separated for the match more and more people began to congregate—just what I thought would happen. Terril stepped forward to monitor the match. Thalia immediately increased my metabolism. Valk moved towards me, throwing a fist towards my face with an elbow sure to follow. I waited. His motion appeared slightly slower than normal. At the last moment, he dropped and executed a sweep of my legs. Even though it appeared slow, I barely managed to jump, sending a flying kick towards his chest. He somehow managed to step back and block. I landed slightly off-balance but used the force of his block as momentum to sweep at his legs. He rolled over my sweep and came up standing and ready. The match went on for five minutes. Valk scored three times; I didn’t. When he called a halt to the match, everyone was cheering and clapping.

“That was impressive, Reese. I don’t think I’ve worked so hard in many years. Your technique’s improved. With the additional speed that was an awesome performance.” He wiped the sweat from his forehead. “Now the truth. Were you and Thalia at maximum speed?” Valk stood, smiling.

“Thalia said half.”

“Well, I thank Thalia. That would really have been embarrassing. I see why you didn’t want to fight anyone else. I scored against you. They wouldn’t have and couldn’t help but take it out on you. I’m going to have a shower and cool off. Class dismissed.”

Valk walked off, smiling. I was relieved. Everyone came over and congratulated me. I knew they were all relieved that I’d refused to fight them. I’d done the right thing.

<Agree. I becoming human. You Riss. Riss do not have egos.>

Thalia’s laugh tingled down my spine.

* * * *

Most of my working-shift time I spent on the bridge as an apprentice Weapons officer or in the simulator working at our projectile project.

<What do you think, Thalia?>

We had spent a great amount of our time trying to improve the accuracy.

<Computer and humans too slow. Can increase your speed, not Kollar.>

<What if we make the computer smarter?>

<Already SAS best.> Thalia sent an image of a huge muscle man running ahead of a group of athletes.

Thalia and I had been agonizing over the solution for weeks. Thalia had been concerned with the math. As I watched the simulation, the solution, or at least a tentative one, flashed in front of me.

<What if we had the computer estimate where the Tiger and the enemy ship would be sixty seconds later and compute a firing solution based on our Symath calculation? The human input combined with the time the computer needs to make a calculation. Say it’s twenty seconds.>

<The computer calculation now twenty seconds late...oh I see, little one. You teach Thalia.>

She laughed, making me feel good.

<Computer checks again twenty and forty seconds later. If the solution calculated sixty seconds before is still viable, it signals the weapons officer to fire. Not perfect but better.>

We spent the rest of the day testing the theory. It worked perfectly when neither ship changed position and well enough so long as the changes were insignificant. In the end, we added a routine that calculated the percent of deviation from the prediction and gave the Weapons officer a three color light on her panel, showing the probability of scoring zero, less than five, and more than five hits. Thalia came up with the idea of red, yellow, and green from old Earth’s traffic signals.

* * * *

The next day we took the shuttle to what Sparrows Nest laughingly called a landing field. Wang and Iglis took another shuttle into the central part of the town, where the major businesses were located. I stayed near the landing area and the poorer section of the town. I reasoned that would give us two perspectives—rich and poor. Terril and Corporal Partel followed me.

“This doesn’t seem to be a normal rotation, Terril,” I said after finding her with me for the third time. I’d grown very fond of Terril and considered her an older sister.

“Of course, ma’am. No Scorpion volunteers for anything. You’re volunteered by someone else.” She tried to frown but broke out in a laugh. “Gunny would have sent five of us with you if it wouldn’t look like he didn’t care about the rest of the landing party.”

Dressed in work fatigues, we visited stores, restaurants, and bars. The reception in the shops was cordial, in the restaurants friendly, and in the bars a mixture of curious and hostile. In one bar, which proved seedier than the others, the crowd sounded boisterous and the mood felt dangerous. Shortly after we entered, a large man with a square jaw, two scars on his cheek, and dirty-brown colored hair came walking towards us.

“Be nice to Uncle Scar, and I won’t have to hurt you. Boys, you can have the other one.” He laughed and reached for me.

Terril caught his hand half-way there, twisted, and slammed his face into the bar. “Sorry, Uncle Scar. That was clumsy of me. I meant to drive your face into the beer mug. I guess I need more practice.”

When Terril let go, he slid to the floor, adding to the garbage already there. The place erupted in laughs, stomping feet, and clapping. Obviously, Uncle Scar wasn’t well liked. We had multiple offers for drinks and joined one of the tables. Partel stood off to the side scanning the room. Sometime during the evening, Uncle Scar left.

We got lots of information but none of it relevant. I concluded the raiders would be the ones needing help if they attacked Sparrows Nest. As for merchants, the vast majority of those were privateers with more artillery than your average Light cruiser. We left around midnight, intending to return to the Tiger.

“I’m confused, Terril, right or left?” Everything looked the same to me: dilapidated, filthy, and unsavory.

Terril took out her SID and brought up a hologram of the city. “My SID shows us about two miles from the ship. Looks like we turn left and a right at the second intersection. That will take us back to the Tiger.” I felt fortunate Terril and Partel were along. The people on the street looked unlikely to give me any directions except to their bed. We’d just turned right, when a group of men stepped out of a side street fifty meters ahead.

“Trouble,” Terril said and automatically reached for her standard Scorpion-issue shard gun, which delivered small steel shards similar to the pellets from an old-earth shotgun. Unlike shotguns the shard gun spray could be adjusted from fifteen centimeters to a meter. But because the City Ordinances prohibited guns of any kind, Terril had gone unarmed except for a survival knife strapped to her ankle. Ironically, in this part of town half the population carried a weapon. Trained to react, Terril and Partel pulled me back around the corner just as multiple shots rang out. Wood and stone sprayed everywhere. I’d avoided being hit only because of Terril’s reflexes. Partel tried to raise the ship on his SID, while we ran back the way we’d come. His SID had either been disrupted or we were out of range.

If we were caught in the open, the probability of getting wounded or killed was high. A shard gun required little skill—point in the general direction and pull the trigger.

“Partel, you go right at the intersection and try for the ship. They can locate us if they send out a drone. In any case, it’ll split this mob up,” Terril shouted. Partel pealed off to the right, as we continued straight. “If they’re after you, they might not know what you look like. If that’s the case, few if any will follow Partel. You and I’ll split at the next intersection. I’d stay with you if I had something besides a knife. Without a gun, I’d be a hindrance since you can easily outrun me.” She tried to laugh between breaths. Before we reached the intersection multiple shots rang out, and stone fragments exploded around us. I instantly felt pain in my leg, shoulder, and back.

<Shards in leg, shoulder, stone debris in back. Time to hurry, little one.>

<Not yet. Wait until Terril turns the corner.>

“Damn. My rank for a gun,” Terril mumbled. I knew shards and flying stone had also hit her.

“Can I do anything, Terril?” I worried Terril would be slowed from loss of blood, and easily killed.

“Yes. Turn right at the corner and disappear. You don’t have a weapon. I do and it’s going up someone’s ass.”

I saw Terril stumble. She’d been hit again before we reached the intersection. When I looked back, I saw a tall man pointing in my direction. As I turned the corner, multiple shots rang out behind me. A large chunk of the building near me exploded, spraying chunks of debris and knocking me to my knees. My whole body throbbed with pain.

<No shard gun. Military-grade weapon. Move faster.>

I got up and started running. Although I felt a slight limp on my right side my speed increased.

<Need fix. Bleeding lot. Soon leave blood trail. Arm wound not bad.>

At the next intersection, I continued running straight rather than turning. I thought I could get most of the way to the following intersection before the group behind me managed to turn the corner and could see me. I made it to the intersection just in time. As I turned right around the corner, shots rang out. Peeking back, I saw only two men. It appeared likely that the group had split up in order to keep me caged in this area. If I were right, several were running on each of the streets parallel to the one I’d just been on. They’d eventually catch me in the open. The group from behind if I had continued going straight, or one of the groups running parallel to me if I turned right or left. Unfortunately, it was a good strategy. My only chance was to reach the next intersection before the group running parallel to me on the next street over. I’d die if I didn’t.

<Time for maximum speed, Thalia.>

I ran as fast as I could. When I reached the corner, I heard nothing. I had only a minute or so before one of the two other groups reached my street and could see me.

Seconds later, two men reached the corner where I waited. I grabbed the first one to appear and smashed him in the throat. He staggered back into his partner, fighting for air, which would never reach his lungs. While stumbling backwards, his partner shot reflexively, hitting him in the back. I leaped into the air before he could recover, slamming my foot into his head. As I bent to pick up a shard gun, pieces of building shattered above me. Pain shot through my arm and back. Even with Thalia’s help, I felt exhausted and my body aflame. The group, one street over, had reached the intersection. Although I was bleeding, they’d lost their advantage. I scooped up the shard gun and disappeared around the corner to the left. They no longer had me trapped. In addition, I had a gun and could outrun them, so long as blood loss didn’t stop me.

I trotted, limping down the street, not sure how many remained. There could be as many as six to eight chasing me. If not in good condition, I was at least now armed and dangerous.

<Working. Need be more careful.>

<Sorry.>

At the next intersection, I checked both ways. I didn’t see anyone. No one had appeared behind me, yet. I turned right. Although I was lost, I hoped to keep them separated and wage a war of attrition.

Then I heard shuttles approaching. When I looked up it was raining Scorpions in full battle dress. Two grabbed me and hauled into the shuttle, as sounds of military grade rifles exploded in the distance.

<You gone and got us damaged.>

I felt her laugh.

<Not funny you clown.>

<Living up to my namesake. Sleep, little one. Doctor Thalia repair damage.>

* * * *

When I regained consciousness, Terril and Partel were sitting next to the bed. I felt sore all over but had little pain. The bleeding had stopped but the wounds remained open where the shards had entered.

<Did my doctor desert me?>

<No. Let Echart remove shards. Take me days.>

Terril looked at me, concern written in her expression. “You’re like one of those cats with nine lives, ma’am. They were definitely after you and knew what you looked like. No one chased Partel or me after we split. Of course, that was their mistake. It permitted Partel to make it back to the Tiger. The Scorpions are grateful to you for the exercise, although the Captain may not be.”

While we were talking, Doctor Echart wandered over.

“Well, I see my guest is up. I love to get my machines on you, Lieutenant Reese.” He snorted, something between a laugh and a sneeze. He then proceeded to examine my multiple wounds. “The wounds remain open. I believe the shards are still there, if I’m not mistaken.”

“I guess it’s time you and I talked, Doctor. They’re some machines and treatments Thalia can tolerate. Since someone seems to want me dead, I’ll authorize the use of those in an emergency. Thalia has stopped the bleeding but has left the wounds open for you to remove the shards. It would take her days to work them to the surface. Before you remove the shards, let’s discuss what you can use.” Thalia had numbed the pain, so I could tour his facility. I discussed each piece of equipment with him. Those I knew were all right, Echart listed into my ID; those I wasn’t sure of I rejected. We also discussed medicines. Except for some salves, I rejected all internal medicines.

“Surely you want something to sedate you while I’m working on you,” Echart said.

<No.>

“Definitely not under any circumstance. Thalia will manage the pain.” I shook my head. “Nothing to render me unconscious no matter what my injuries.”

“I’ll update your ID and discuss it with the other doctors and medics on the Tiger. I’m glad you’ve authorized some equipment. It’ll help, and I won’t feel so ineffective. Although I’d rather not see you in here again, it’s very nerve-wracking.”

He then had me taken into surgery and removed nine shards. He wrapped the wounds but left them open for Thalia to heal. He reluctantly released me to return to my room. By that time, I’d had more than enough excitement for today.

<Fun day.>

It always surprised me that I could feel words like happiness, joy, grinning, laughs. At the moment, Thalia was grinning.

<I’d prefer a nice boring day.>

I stayed in my cabin for another day, while Thalia finished her repairs.

<Doing complete overhaul. Been abusing our vehicle lately.>

* * * *

“At ease and take a seat. Perhaps you could explain what happened last night. It appears you and the Scorpions had a party and didn’t invite the XO or me.” Captain Jordanno didn’t look angry, but he wasn’t smiling.

“I was part of the Intelligence team canvassing the area for any information that would hint at a reason for the raiders to attack Sparrows Nest. We stopped in shops, restaurants, and bars. Master Sergeant Terril had an altercation with one man who later left; however, I don’t think the subsequent meleé involved him.” The man would have wanted revenge on Terril not me. “These men knew what I looked like and were after me specifically. They made no attempt to chase Corporal Partel or Master Sergeant Terril once we split up.”

“That appears to be the case. The Scorpions captured three of the men chasing you. The prisoners were eager to talk, but they knew very little. You seem to have antagonized someone with substantial resources. They knew the Tiger  was going to stop at Sparrows Nest, and you were the target. Their contact arrived a week ago with your picture, paid them, and left the same day. A check with traffic control indicates a freighter named Venturer was the ship, but the passenger remains unknown. Sparrows Nest’s customs is lax when tracking who comes and goes.” Jordanno stared at me, as if watching me would somehow reveal the answer. “Someone on this ship must be providing information on you. It could be the same person who tried to kill you. I want you to keep my suspicions to yourself; otherwise, I’m going to have the whole ship spying on each other. I don’t like it, but I’ve the morale of the personnel to consider.”

* * * *

Valk grinned at me. “You look fit, Lieutenant. More than I can say for my sergeant. She just doesn’t have that youthful stamina anymore. She did, however, enjoy the party you threw, even though she left before the Scorpions crashed it.” His grin widened. “Best exercise the boys and girls have had in a long time. You were damn lucky, Reese. An examination of their weapons revealed some pretty sloppy shooting. Only the shard guns’ wide settings saved you. I think it’s time we made you into a proper Scorpion. Tomorrow, Terril’s going to teach you how to use several weapons, Scorpion style.”

* * * *

I welcomed the workout with Valk and the others the next morning. Afterward I talked with several of the Scorpions about the incident and received lots of thanks for relieving the boredom. I showered and dressed before reporting to the bridge.

“Good morning, ma’am,” I said as I sat down next to Commander Kollar.

“Are you well enough to be back to duty? I heard you’d been wounded with a shard gun and had multiple wounds,” Kollar asked, looking me over.

I couldn’t understand what everyone hoped to find by looking.

“You’ve some doctor, Reese. I’ve heard Master Sergeant Terril is excused from duty with similar wounds.”

“Yes, Thalia’s very good.”

The Tiger departed the next day for Ossicwater.

Chapter 28

I lay in my cabin, pondering why someone wanted me dead. I understood the emotional reaction many had to a Riss-human. It hurt, but I had no control over their feelings. The reactions varied. Some feared contamination; others felt disgust; and a few exhibited raw hate. Under the right circumstances, any of those with such prejudices might attempt to kill me. They wanted me to know I was abhorrent to them. It was personal. The gas attack in my room and the attack at Sparrows Nest were different. The earlier attackers were amateurs, the more recent ones professionals. If I was right, it appeared to be someone with money and a long reach. On the ship, the individual had opened a system-protected locked door, used a gas canister of a type not available on the ship, and had stolen my SID. On Sparrows Nest, locals had attacked me, but the person who set it up and the money had come from some other planet. They produced the same result; however, the motivation was different. Why? Did they hate all Riss-humans? Did they want the Riss-human experiment to fail? Or was the target me, Lieutenant Reese, specifically? All three were a possibility, but the first two more likely.

I bolted upright in bed, suddenly knowing how to resolve my dilemma. At the guard’s station to the intelligence unit, I forced myself to stand still while they verified who I was for the thousandth time. When I entered, Lieutenant Iglis looked up and waved from her seat at one of the terminals.

“’Morning, Reese, Not often we see you here on first shift. What’s up?”

“I need to see the Commander. I’d like you to join us,” I said, walking towards Wang’s door, which was open. “Ma’am, if you aren’t busy, I’d like to talk to you.”

“Come.” Wang waved me in.

I gestured for Iglis to follow.

“You look agitated. What’s up?”

“Ma’am, although I’m curious about my fellow Riss-humans, I’ve tried to avoid any action that could be construed as a conflict of interest. The recent attacks on my life have caused me to wonder why they’re after me. Am I the target because I’m a Riss-human? If so, the other Riss-humans are in danger. Maybe they’ve already been attacked?” I was voicing my thoughts rather than talking to Wang.

“Calm down, Reese. What do you want to do?”

<Think first. Then talk.>

A sense of calm descended on me as I tried to organize my thoughts. “First, I’d like to review the information you have on the other Riss-humans. I know there must have been accidents or more direct incidents that could have been fatal. If so, I hope to determine whether they were personal or not.”

“What do you mean?” Iglis asked. “If someone tries to kill you, it’s personal.”

“It’s personal if they want to kill you because they hate you. In that case, they want you to know who’s doing it. If they want to kill you because someone paid them, it’s not personal. In that case, they don’t care.” I looked at Wang, who nodded.

“And after that?”

“I’d like to communicate with each of my Riss-human associates and clarify anything I discover. If there were any incidents that weren’t recorded, warn them they maybe in danger.”

“Reese, I  trust you but others may not. Actually, others won’t.”

“I didn’t mean for me to do it alone. If you and Iglis agree, she’ll monitor everything I do. You’ll review all correspondence before I send it and read all the responses before I do. Iglis will report directly to you on my actions.”

“You and Iglis are friends; however, if you did anything improper, she would report you in a heart-beat.”

“As she should,” I said. Wang agreed. We spent the next hour setting up a protocol that would prevent anyone from claiming an impropriety.

Over the next three days, I reviewed every bit of information that had been collected on the Riss-humans. Although Iglis was there to monitor my research, she and Petty Officers Phalan and Wunk helped me find and analyze every scrap of information pertaining to the others. As I suspected, each of my fellow Riss-humans had experienced several incidents. A few were serious. With Wang’s permission, I used Intelligence’s priority to contact each of them, asking for more details. I included a brief account of my incidents, a warning to be careful, and asked them to report to me if any similar incidents occurred. By now, Wang and Iglis were as interested as I.

The replies filtered in over the next couple of days. Leaving out the normal insults, angry looks, and nonphysical cruelty, they each reported at least one such episode.

Damion, who’d resigned, reported he’d encountered no incidents on Saipha. Prior to resigning, he’d been in multiple fights. Although provoked by two or more individuals, he’d been accused of being a troublemaker.

Alena had been abused physically twice and raped once with no investigation, until I’d suggested an inquiry. She had very little trouble after that.

Jaelle had lots of insults and was ambushed twice. Both times she had to have medical treatment. Only a perfunctory investigation was conducted afterwards. No one was charged.

Petar reported similar incidents to Damion’s.

Elissa had the usual mental abuse but only one physical incident. The difference was that the captain conducted a formal inquiry and sentenced the individual to thirty days confinement. Since then most of the rude comments had stopped.

With Wang’s permission, after I had seen the responses, I informed Jaelle and Petar of Alena’s experience and mine with my previous Captain, our threat of an inquiry, and the results. By the end of the week we had concluded the investigation.

“I knew there’d been some minor incidents, but not to the extent they’ve reported. How do you put up with it?” Wang asked after she had reviewed the material we’d assembled. After my experience with Captain Gebauer, their reports were what I expected.

“What choice do we have?”

* * * *

I continued my weapon studies under Commander Kollar. She’d split my time between studying the training manual to understand the theory and spending time in the simulator. She had me try each of the standard routines against an existing scenario to help me understand when each best applied.

“Reese, the Captain would like to see you in his office,” Riddler said.

<He apprehensive.>

<I hope I haven’t done anything to turn him against me.>

I entered and saluted. He didn’t tell me “At ease,” so I stayed at attention, a bad sign.

“Lieutenant Reese, I’ve just had a message from Captain Hagan on the Shikra. He said that you’re sending messages to Jaelle, a Riss-human, advising her to demand special privileges because of her contract. I thought you told Admiral Plimson and me that you didn’t use your contract to intimidate your superiors. Captain Hagan not only claims you are, but that you’re encouraging others to do so.” He glared at me, waiting for an answer.

<Talk first thinks later.>

<Lets see if he thinks at all.>

“Captain, would you do me a favor before you assume I’m seeking special treatment or advocating anyone else to do so, including my fellow Riss-humans?” I was tired of this, but I didn’t want any more problems, especially from the Captain.

“You’ll want an inquiry if I don’t? You’ve been treated fairly on my ship. I don’t care if you want an inquiry—I  want one.” He stood to deliver his tirade.

<This no longer amusing, Sister.>

“No I want out. I’m hereby officially notifying you that I’m resigning and want transportation to Saipha.”

“What about the Riss? Was that all a fake too?”

“The Riss don’t need to partner with humans. You’ve proven to them that you’ll make bad partners. The Riss are long-lived and patient. A thousand years means nothing to them. They’ll achieve their goals without you.” I glared back. “I’ll confine myself to my quarters except for meals, until I’m delivered to Saipha or another ship going to Saipha.” I turned and walked out without saluting or being given permission. I was a civilian and no longer required.

* * * *

I stopped reading when I heard a knock at the door.

“Yes?”

“It’s the XO, Reese. The Captain would like to see you.”

“You may tell the Captain I’m not interested in talking to him. I’d remove my uniform, but I’ve no other clothes. I’ve removed my rank and ribbons and returned my SID to Supply. I’m a civilian. I would move to guest quarters except there are none on this ship.”

“Reese, you’re being stubborn.”

“I know I’m shooting the messenger. I’m sorry. Yes, I’m being stubborn and it feels good. I’ll soon be free from abuse and from being treated like a pariah.”

* * * *

“Time for lunch, Nadya,” Terril said after knocking. I almost wept. I’d miss true friends like Terril. I opened the door and began walking with her towards the mess hall generally used exclusively by the navy personnel.

“Why are you doing this, Terril?”

“I’m visiting a friend, since she won’t visit me.”

“I’m not allowed to roam the ship since I’m no longer in the military. Besides, the navy may give you a hard time.”

“Do you think some navy clown’s going to object out loud to a Black Beret about anything?” She laughed.

I smiled, envisioning the scene. When we entered, the Captain and Wang were sitting at a table. I noticed that everyone had chosen to sit as far away as they could.

“You can be very stubborn, Miss Reese,” Wang said, but smiled.

“I asked the Captain to trust me. He refused. I knew without the Captain’s support the abuse would soon start again.” I intentionally ignored the Captain. He quietly watched me.

“I see you’ve company.”

“Friends.”

“I guess they don’t want you abused. I seriously doubt there are any navy personnel who could successfully challenge Master Sergeant Terrill. I see Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk also just happened to be dining with you today. Yes…good friends. Pretty soon this will be the Black Beret’s dining hall.” She nodded. “When you didn’t show for duty for several days and I couldn’t raise you on your SID, I contacted the XO. He explained what had happened. I went to see the Captain to hear his side of the confrontation with you. Although it was an Intelligence inquiry, I shared our findings, including the messages you received and sent. He suggested this visit.” Wang looked to Jordanno for the first time.

He stared at me. “You’ve every right to be mad with me. I can understand your frustration with people, allowing their prejudices to override their judgment. You would certainly be better off as a civilian. Reading those messages, I can understand what you and the rest of the Riss-humans are going through every day. I don’t believe there’s anyone on this ship or any other who could have tolerated it for so long. I can also see why the Riss believe we would make poor allies.” He paused. I didn’t think he expected me to answer.

<He sad. Should be.> No humor.

“Captain, Thalia’s sense of humor is ridiculous. She thought people chasing and shooting at us fun. I’ve always thought I’d hate to see the day she didn’t find something funny or amusing. I have. She’s no longer amused.” Against my best efforts, a tear rolled down my cheek.

“Reese, I’ve no authority to reverse your resignation. I believe it will cause the collapse of the Riss project. Commanders Wang and Uchida feel strongly that would be a tragedy for the SAS. Not just losing the brave individuals who carry the Riss, but the Riss who’ve given up their hosts and way of life for this alliance. If you had Master Chief’s stripes, a battle ribbon, and a silver star, you would have deserved my respect and support. I wouldn’t have assumed Captain Hagan right and you wrong. I’ve no right to ask and can’t promise you won’t get more grief, but I wish you and Thalia would consider staying.”

“I’ll ask Thalia to consider if the Riss are willing to go on. It’s no longer my decision. I began this project for my own selfish reasons. I’ve come to realize that the Riss are a magnificent race worth championing. I’ll do what she wishes. I thank you for your honesty and truly wish this had never happened.”

“Regardless of your decision, you’ve my permission to visit your friends,” Jordanno said. I nodded to Terril and we joined Valk.

* * * *

<Well Thalia?>

<Captain sincere. Never same. You, he remember.>

<That isn’t important. The Riss are.>

<Yes. Get abused for Riss.>

Humor ripped through me. For the first time in a week I smiled. I decided to see Gunny Valk and have a workout.

I found Terril and him. I practiced with ferocity, trying to cleanse myself of the week’s frustration and those to come. Terril understood, and we faced off for a match. We went at it like it was the difference between life and death. Sweat stained our clothes and ran down our face and arms. If we hadn’t had protective gear, one of us would have been crippled and the other dead. As it was we would have plenty of bruises tomorrow.

“Stop!” Valk shouted. She and I heard but ignored him. The battle was all that mattered. I felt my legs go out from beneath me. Terril and I went flying. We hit the floor together.

“I said ‘stop!’” He stood over us, shaking his head. When I looked up, it seemed that everyone in the bay was watching. They were laughing and clapping.

“Thank you, friend.” I hugged her tightly.

* * * *

I reported to the XO the next morning in uniform. “Sir, with the Captain’s permission, I’m reporting for duty.” I braced to attention. Everyone tried to appear like they weren’t looking. They were.

“I heard there was a navy versus army fight yesterday, and the navy held its own. Too bad navy personnel weren’t invited. I think they would have enjoyed it. You’ve many talents, Lieutenant Reese. The Captain said he would like to see you if you reported for duty.”

<I wonder if he’s changed his mind.>

<No. Not that lucky. XO smiling.>

<Thanks to Terril, I’m ready for more abuse.>

To my surprise the XO entered with me. Colonel Quentin and Commander Wang were already seated. I braced to attention and saluted. “Reporting as ordered, Sir.”

“At ease, Reese. I’m glad Thalia and you decided to stay. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy decision. Hopefully as the years progress life will get easier as more people get to know you. Rank will help. For now I would like to publically apologize.”

I didn’t know what to do or say. Luckily I didn’t have to. Life returned to normal

<Life boring.>

I felt a tingle of amusement.

<Enjoy it while lasts my Sister.>

Two days later we entered Ossicwater space.

Chapter 29

Ossicwater had water everywhere. The colony was composed of five hundred islands. The largest, and the capital, was Union with a land mass thirty by fifty kilometers. Shuttles with pontoons were the main transportation between islands, of which only two had defense facilities. I doubted the raiders would bother with Ossicwater. It didn’t seem worth the fuel to drop shuttles.

The temperatures were tropical and the people lived simply. Wang, Iglis, and I again split up to provide more coverage. Wang stayed on Union; Iglis went to Longlee, the second largest island; and I went to Cresco, one of the smaller ones. I found it had a rain forest.

The community consisted of a hundred grass huts, which I discovered the people dismantled, during the wet season, in order to change islands. I found it restful and enjoyed talking with the people through an interpreter. They were delighted to see us. We were something new and provided a change from their routine lives. My tattoo was a novelty although everyone, including the children, had several.

They lived strictly off the land. I had brought several bolts of a soft but inexpensive cloth on the recommendation of our guide. It caused an improvised party. I learned the neighboring islands were similar to this one. They visited by boat and frequently found marriage partners.

“It’s like going back in time when men fought with spears and blowpipes,” Terril said as we retired for the night.

“Well, at least we don’t have to worry about being attacked with shard guns.”

“You’re going to disappoint a lot of Blacks, who count on you for training exercises.” Terril laughed.

* * * *

We left Ossicwater for Port Lost two days later.

The projectile Symath seemed to have a limit of eighty-five percent accuracy, so long as the enemy ship didn’t skip or change course. It became option number twenty in the system’s preset firing sequences. My gas attack and stolen SID remained a mystery.

We reached Port Lost four days later. The space station looked like a military-grade installation with a highly sophisticated defense system. I saw at least twenty spacecraft docked at the station. Commander Abboto said his boards indicated that most of the merchant ships were well armed, some like Light cruisers. I was told by Kollar that Port Lost was known as a port where you could hire militia for colonies, and protection for high-end merchants who traveled to outlying areas.

Wang, Iglis and I again went planet-side in hopes of finding some information that would lead to determining the raider’s next target. If they had another target, it had to be Port Lost or Lords Landing. I personally didn’t think it would be Port Lost, given all the armed vessels and their modern defense systems. Against everyone’s objections, I chose the spacer’s area. This time Valk had sent four well-armed Black Berets.

“Where to, Lieutenant?” Terril asked. I shook my head. It felt...strange being in charge of older people with far more experience.

<You represent high-Riss.>

<Yes, you deserve it. It’s me I’m worried about.>

“Pick a bar, Master Sergeant Terril.”

I felt like a little schoolgirl as soon as I said it. How else could she address me, or I her, in public? “We aren’t going to learn anything at a hotel.”

Terril looked around and pointed to a particularly rowdy one and signaled for the other three to remain outside. We were dressed in work clothes—dress whites and rank insignia didn’t seem a particularly good idea. Inside, about forty spacers were drinking, eating, and huddled in conversations. When we entered, most looked up and the noise level tapered off.

“Well, well. Look at what the wind blew in, crew from that new warship and not just any crew—a Black Beret. I guess the navy needs protection down here,” a burly black-bearded man said with a smile.

“No, I’m here to keep her out of trouble.” I hoped a little humor would help. I didn’t think the direct approach would work. He gave a hearty laugh. I can’t say I blamed him. Terril stood a good ten centimeters taller and was noticeably more muscular. I’d filled out but was still waif-like.

“Since you’re protecting her, maybe I can buy her a drink.”

“How about I buy you one? She gets nasty when she drinks. I don’t like breaking up fights, gets me all dirty.” I slid my credit card across the bar’s scanner. “What ya have, big guy. I’ll have a twister.” It was called a twister because it had your head spinning like a top. Terril and the big guy gave me strange looks.

<I hope you can handle this for me.>

<Stomach versatile.>

“Okay, little lady, same for me.” Now he grinned. He’d obviously been drinking for a while; I hoped that gave an advantage. Several others joined me. I treated them to a couple of rounds each.

The big guy eyed me. “I understand why you were sent to protect her. For your size, you sure can drink.” He led his buddies and me to a table that had suddenly become empty. Terril leaned against the wall behind me. Abruptly, he came to the point. “So, what do you want to know? You came here looking for information.”

“Nadya. The Compton stopped here. What did they want?” No sense dancing around the topic.

All five laughed. “The lady was a lot better looking than you and more cooperative.” He winked. “But she used Dilut to counter the effect of the drinks. You and I know it doesn’t work on Twisters. The poison from the waterdogs in a twister offsets whatever’s in Dilut. Didn’t matter since she was good in bed. Are you?”

“No. She…” I nodded towards Terril, “…gets all nasty.” I heard a snort.

“I’ll tell you because it’s not nice to play Black Jack for a fool.” He stared at me for a moment then shook his head. “She showed interest in a shipment of weapons to Lords Landing. The followers of Daleus are planning to convert the followers of Wakila to the true way of God.”

* * * *

“I’m impressed, Reese. How did you manage to drink three Twisters? I don’t know how Black Jack managed. His friends were staggering and falling down after one.” Terril asked the question after we’d entered the shuttle.

“I took a drug called Thalia.” I felt a little dizzy for a while, but my head had cleared by the time we arrived at the shuttle.

<Excellent drug. Twister real challenge.>

<You were the difference. I could never had gotten that information without you.>

<Teamwork. Good fun.> Thalia’s humor had returned.

“I thought I’d choke when you said you were there to protect me. I think that and the Twisters won the day. I know nothing else you could have said or done that would have loosened their tongues.”

* * * *

Wang, Iglis, and I shared our findings on the way back to the Tiger. We agreed that Port Lost wasn’t lost—every mercenary in the Universe stops there. It provided a place to relax and find employers, or other opportunities. All of the visiting ships bristled with weapons systems, as did Port Lost’s defensive system. You would need a fleet of Heavies to breach the planet. Wang and Iglis had found a lot about the kind of activities that supported the colony, but little towards clues pertaining to our raider’s next target.

“Did you enjoy your tour of bars and houses of pleasure?” Wang asked after she and Iglis finished updating me on their findings. I had the feeling they thought visiting the fun side of town dangerous and that it was unlikely anyone would talk to the military.

“Met a lot of interesting people.” I batted my eyes. “Some nice man told me the followers of Daleus are expecting a shipment of weapons for their fight with the followers of Wakila. I also found how the Compton  collects their information—a beautiful blond woman, who is sexy and uninhibited.”

“I hope you didn’t have to do the same for your information?” Iglis said with a grin.

“No. I only had to drink three Twisters.” I imitated downing a drink. Iglis and Wang sat there with their mouths open. Wang recovered first. She shook her head like an animal shaking itself free of water.

“Sex might have been easier. However you did it, that information may be what we were looking for. I’ll ask the Captain to leave tonight for Lords Landing rather than lay over for a day. You two try to determine who’s sending the weapons, when they’ll arrive, and what kind.”

When we arrived at the Tiger, Wang headed towards the bridge. Iglis and I spent our time combing through data on known arms dealers. Sometime during our search, I felt the engines ignite.

Much later we found what we were looking for. A merchant on the Laughing Lady had purchased military grade weapons from Tamerland for forty million credits. Part of the deal included a Tamerland Light cruiser, the Ocelot, escorting the merchant to Lords Landing. They’d departed two days ago.

“If that’s the target, we’re going to be late,” Wang said after checking with Commander Uchida, who estimated five days to Lords Landing.

* * * *

Corporal Owin entered his quarters, laughing. He looked at Sergeant Blackstone and laughed harder. “You’re never going to believe what just happened!”

“Quit laughing and tell me so I can laugh too.” Blackstone swung his legs around to sit up. Owin began laughing again.

“We’re going to get paid to kill dirty face. A guy called me aside and said he knew you and I didn’t like Reese. One thing led to another, and he agreed to pay us a thousand credits to kill her. The best part is that he can delay the call to security.” Owin stood there bouncing up and down with excitement.

“When do we get the credits?”

Blackstone stood when Owin produced two credit chips.

“He insists we do it tonight. He’ll send ‘Ready’ to me from Reese’s SID.”

“It means he or someone he knows was the person who tried to gas Reese. He managed to open her door and didn’t leave a trace. That’s a dangerous man. All right, tonight.”

* * * *

Five hours later, Owin received the “Ready” signal. It was almost 2400 hours and the hallways were empty except for an occasional sailor. The unknown man had provided them with navy work uniforms, which made them inconspicuous in the level two hallways. The security hallway was quiet and empty. Owin disappeared into a stairwell halfway along the corridor and Blackstone waited at the intersection.

* * * *

I felt exhausted when I finally left the Intel unit. I’d been up most of the night with Iglis, researching the details of the transfer. On the surface, the Tamerland escort seemed adequate. Tamerland Light cruisers had the latest technology and nothing even most Heavy cruisers would want to take on; however, the raiders were now running in packs, which included a Heavy and one or more Lights. I looked forward to a few hours’ sleep before my duty shift later this morning. The hallway was quiet as usual.

<Down!>

Thalia’s voice carried urgency. As I tucked and rolled forward, I heard a buzzing sound and felt the air move over my head, I came up a meter from Sergeant Blackstone. He held a stun-stick. They were nick-named Buzzers, because of the sound they produced. My metabolism exploded as Thalia worked her magic. Checking behind me, I saw Corporal Owin. Buzzers were dangerous weapons used for crowd control. They delivered a strong electrical charge and were capable of causing severe burns and even death, if the contact lasted more than a few seconds. The Buzzers were keyed to an individual and went inactive if dropped or in another’s hand.

They had me trapped between them. An amateur with a buzzer would be dangerous. These two weren’t amateurs. Blackstone lunged at my chest. I twisted sideways and blocked with one arm, driving my palm into his face with the other. Blood splashed over my hand as it erupted from his nose. As he stumbled backwards, his buzzer whipped back against my arm. Instantly it went numb.

<In back.>

I turned and dropped just as Owin swung at my head. Driving my foot into his groin produced a satisfying WOOF sound as he doubled over. As he did, his Buzzer hit my leg. Pain shot through my leg a second before it went numb. My arm was still tingling as Thalia worked to revive it. I leaned against the wall in order to remain in a standing position. If I could have moved, I might have made it by one or the other. Blackstone recovered first. Owin rested on his knees, moaning, but held his Buzzer in front of him.

<Have fixed soon.>

<The sooner the better.>

Blackstone stepped forward and swung for my head. I went down on my good leg, using the momentum to whip my numb leg around. It met his ankles, and he went airborne. My luck had deserted me. His stun-stick struck my hand as he fell. My arm had recovered somewhat, my leg was still partly numb, and my hand to forearm was dead. If I got through this, I’d have third-degree burns everywhere the clubs had hit me. Blackstone lay on the floor but still held his buzzer. The two Buzzers sounded like a swarm of angry wasps. Even if I could jump, I couldn’t jump over Blackstone without him striking me hard. Owin had recovered and approached me with caution.

“You’re going die, you ugly bitch. I’ll make sure it hurts.”

There appeared no way to escape. I couldn’t knock the club out of his hand because a cord fastened it securely to his wrist. This time he was swinging it back and forth as he approached. I waited, timing each swing. With my adrenaline at maximum, he appeared in slow motion but no less dangerous. I had nothing to lose; they had time on their side. When the Owin’s Buzzer passed me, I stepped in. My arm blocked his from coming back, and I drove my elbow into his skull. I heard a dull crack as bone ruptured and felt the skull cave in. Blood oozed from his ears, nose, and mouth. Before I could get out of the way, the force of my blow spun him around and his buzzer struck me across the waist. I slammed into the wall, barely supporting myself on my good leg. My body exploded with pain for what felt like an eternity. Finally, Thalia shut it down. The pain subsided but the nerves in one leg and arm and my torso were numb.

Blackstone was back up. He grinned, knowing I was easy prey.

<We’re in trouble Thalia.>

<You high-Riss. He human.>

I couldn’t believe she remained amused. Blackstone swung low, hitting my thigh. I collapsed on my back. He laughed as he raised the club and swung down towards my head. I blocked the blow, striking his forearm with my good arm. Sliding my arm down along his, I clamped my hand onto his forearm. I could feel the strength flow into my hand as my fingers dug into his arm. I jerked him towards me. His club glanced off my ribs as I drove my fingers into his throat. I felt his blood splash in my face and smelled the stench of his bowels emptying as he died on top of me.

<You high-Riss. Too young die.>

I felt Thalia’s laugh just before my world went black.

* * * *

“You’re a mess, Lieutenant.” Doctor Echart and a short plump female doctor stood looking down at me. Someone had undressed me. I had burn marks on every part of my body.

<Six.>

Thalia continued to dampen the pain, but the burns remained raw.

“I guess you don’t want me to treat you. You should be unconscious with those wounds.”

“Some salve and bandages would be nice, please.”

* * * *

I sat in one of the empty shuttle bays waiting for the inquiry to begin. This was getting to be an annoying activity. I understood there had to be an investigation any time a death occurred on the ship. I was glad it wasn’t Gebauer. He would have worked out some way to find that I’d lured two innocent Scorpions with an offer of sex and killed them. Of course, I had no way to know what was going to happen here.

<Cart before.>

<Yes, I know.>

Commander Riddler banged the table with a mallet. He sat in the middle with Colonel Quentin on this right and Commander Birkoff on his left. I knew Quinton but had yet to meet the Shark Commander.

“This is an official inquiry into the deaths of Sergeant Blackstone and Corporal Owin on the night of Apra 6, in the Eden year 1202. This inquiry is being taped and all witnesses are reminded they can be prosecuted for false statements and for withholding information.”

The people known to have information concerning the incident had been seated in the front of several tables facing the three judges. A large audience sat or stood well behind us.

“Sergeant Buckner, I understand you were the first man on the scene. Is that true and what did you find?”

“I found Sergeant Blackstone and Corporal Owin lying on the floor dead. Two stun-sticks lay nearby. Lieutenant Reese was on the ground in shock.”

<Not shocked. Busy fix mess.>

“Thank you, Sergeant Buckner. Doctor Echart, can you tell us how Sergeant Blackstone and Corporal Owin died?”

“Sergeant Blackstone died from a strike to his throat, which crushed his larynx and tore an artery. Corporal Owin died from a crushed skull.”

“What was the condition of Lieutenant Reese?”

“She was unconscious when she arrived in the medical ward. She had multiple burn marks similar to those caused by a stun-stick.”

“Thank you, Doctor Echart. Lieutenant Reese, would you tell us what happened?”

“I was tired when I entered the hallway and not paying attention...” I went on to recount the highlights of the fight. Valk was called next. “Master Gunnery Sergeant Valk, I understand that you’re a Master in the art of Si’jin and that Lieutenant Reese studies under your supervision. In your expert opinion is Lieutenant Reese capable of performing the acts she described and are Sergeant Blackstone and Corporal Owin’s injuries consistent with Lieutenant Reese’s explanation?”

“Lieutenant Reese is herself a Master in Si’jin. Is she capable? Students one and two levels below her could inflict those injuries. Yes, they’re consistent with the events she described. Judging by the burn marks on her and the bruises on the sergeants, I would say her account is accurate. Is she  capable? Yes. I’d add that there should be an investigation of Blackstone and Owin. Neither man should have passed the tests for entry as Black Berets. In addition, the Buzzers were coded for them and are the ones missing from the Peregrine. A search of their room revealed two new five-hundred credit chips, issued by a Tamerland bank. It appears they were paid to kill Lieutenant Reese. In my opinion, Sir, those events require investigation.”

Riddler, Quentin, and Birkoff retired to another room. An hour later they returned.

“We find that Lieutenant Reese killed Sergeant Blackstone and Corporal Owin in self-defense while being attacked with stun-sticks. In addition, we order a full investigation of Blackstone and Owin. This inquiry will be sealed and forwarded to SAS.”

As I left the bay, Colonel Quentin approached. “Reese, I’m ashamed that men under my command attacked you and could be bribed into killing anyone.”

“You’ve no reason to be ashamed, Sir. I’ve personal experience with your men and women. I’d trust them at my back any time.”

“That’s what confused me. They seem very fond of you. I hate to say it, but too many people seem intent on killing the Riss. I’m glad you weren’t seriously injured. Any time you want to join the Blacks, I would be glad to have you.”

Chapter 30

“Attention. We’re preparing to enter Lords Landing in one hour. Everyone report to Battle Stations. Captain out.”

I dressed quickly and made my way to the bridge. When I arrived, Commander Kollar already sat at the weapons boards and Commander Spiros at the ECM station. I took the assistant’s seat next to Kollar and strapped in, as Lieutenant Commander DeWayne strapped into the communication station and Lieutenant Commander Abboto into the radar position.

“Well, Reese, are you ready for battle?”

“I’ll be happy to sit and watch, Commander.” I hoped we’d be in time to avoid bloodshed. I’d been told the people were religious fanatics, who were determined to kill each other to prove their God was the true God. They were human.

<Just like those want kill us.>

<I guess there is a little fanatic in each of us.>

<Not high-Riss. Not kill in thousand years.>

<What about Blackstone and Owin?>

<You did. I watched.>

Her laughter rippled though me. It felt good. I hadn’t enjoyed killing them, although I had no other choice—except to die. Thalia was right that no Riss had killed another Riss in a thousand years. They had, like I had, killed in self-defense when hunters came hunting them for their Gorillai pelts.

My thoughts were interrupted as the reentry transition rippled through me, and the people on the bridge turned ghost-like. Some people got sick on reentry. I just felt a tingling sensation.

Abboto initiated the TAC and then spoke. “Captain, three enemy ships. One looks to be a Heavy cruiser, the other two, Lights. I’ve labeled them H1, L1 and L2. They’re on a heading away from Lords Landing.”

The hologram in the middle of the bridge came to life. Three red dots and a black one tagged T1 for the Tiger appeared. It looked like L1 and L2 had left Lords Landing well after H1, which had a sizeable lead.

“Nav, plot us an intercept course for the Lights. XO, make sure the Tiger is secured for battle. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.”

“Captain, what about a skip and run? Thalia’s quite good at it.” Uchida’s grin was predatory.

“Reese, why are you shaking your head? Something we should know?”

“Captain, if that’s the same Heavy we encountered at Tamerland, it’ll be prepared for a skip.”

“Captain Gebauer thought the same thing after we blew up the Light,” Kollar said. “Maybe we could make a short skip to test their reaction.”

“We’re already at a disadvantage. No sense making it worse. Uchida, a short skip, about half way.” Jordanno sat back, staring at the TAC.

“Ready, Skipper,” Uchida said, turning to look at Jordanno, who studied the projected vectors.

“Helm, execute.”

A second later, the Tiger  shuddered. I watched in fascination. In seconds, everyone went from normal to ghosts and back.

<That fun. Ask Captain do again.>

Her laugh cancelled the tingling feeling of the skip.

“Captain, I’m detecting missile fire from all three ships. Looks like they estimated the time for us to arrive, and fired. Surprise!” Kollar said with a grin. “Captain, the Heavy cruiser is four light seconds out. Our new long range P3a missiles will lose power at three; however, the Light cruisers are at two.”

“Engage the Lights,” Jordanno said. He sounded like he was ordering dinner.

Kollar hit the firing button for bank one. “Five away, target L1,” she announced. A second later she hit the button for bank two. “Five away, target L2.”

“I’ve twelve incoming. Time to impact one hundred seconds,” Spiros reported. He seemed detached, too.

While I waited for the carnage to begin, Kollar got one hit on L1 and two on L2. As fast as each missile bank became ready, every thirty seconds, she fired.

Commander Spiros’s antimissiles and decoys streaked out, stopping five missiles. Then chaff distracted two, and at the last moment lasers stopped two more. A second later a series of shocks rocked the Tiger  as the remaining three missiles hit and exploded.

“Two of the missiles hit the battle metal, causing no internal damage. The third opened bay 24, destroying two shuttles and causing minor damage to the Maintenance unit,” DeWayne said, as the sections began reporting their status. Although I’d gone through this before, it didn’t help. Each hit resulted in injuries and deaths. It made little difference to me whether those people were strangers or friends.

<Civilization not Civil.>

<True. So long as men want power, revenge, and money.>

“Two more hits, one on L1 and one on L2,” Kollar reported.

Against all reason, it felt good. I justified it because we were saving lives—the ultimate irony.

“Another twelve incoming.” Spiros’s fingers danced across the board. Decoys and antimissiles destroyed six, chaff caused one to go off course, and lasers stopped two. The Tiger rocked as three penetrated our defenses. One encountered battle armor without effect, one hit level one, and the other was a direct hit on level two. The bridge shook violently and Spiros lurched forward into the ECM board.

“Damn it,” he whispered and sat holding his hand. “Captain, my finger’s broken, it’ll slow me down.”

“Reese, you take the weapons board, Kollar ECM. Spiros, you’re backup.”

Kollar’s fingers flew over the dials and switches as missiles continued to streak in.

I used Kollar’s current settings, firing alternately at L1 and L2 as each bank became available. Since the turnaround for each bank was thirty seconds, it gave the Tiger  a firing capacity of five missiles every fifteen seconds. At present, impact time was running under fifty seconds.

Commander DeWayne broke the silence. “Two hits on level one battle metal, with no internal damage; however, the area’s weak. Three hits destroyed two 50-centimeter lasers and two missile tubes. The missile delivery track’s still functional.” DeWayne continued his running commentary as the count of damages and dead mounted.

“Captain, H1 is turning around. Looks like they’re planning to join the party,” Abboto said, his voice rising with excitement.

“Distance to the H1?”

“Three point five light seconds. Still out of missile range.”

“Ma’am, what about using the projectile option?” I whispered as if Kollar was sitting next to me. She wasn’t. The Riss projectile option was unproven except in the simulator and still under evaluation. Thalia and I felt confident that it would work and were willing to bet our lives if necessary.

Somehow the Captain had heard me. “Projectile option? Oh, the option that leaves our detection features turned off. I don’t know, Reese. I hate to waste missiles on H1. It’s still out of our range.” Two more missiles eluded Kollar and the Tiger  rocked. “I guess distance doesn’t matter for that option. All right, Reese, we’ve less than three minutes until H1 can launch their missiles. We won’t survive the combined assault from the three ships. We can only try to inflict as much damage as possible. Fire when ready.”

I waited while the program activated and the countdown began. The system computer checked three times: twenty seconds after the start of the sixty seconds, when the solution is first available, and again at forty and sixty seconds.

“Hurry up, Reese,” Jordanno said. I waited as the last ten seconds ticked off and the panel showed green. I hit the firing button. Five missiles raced towards H1.

“Time to target, ninety-nine seconds,” I announced and crossed my fingers.

<Not necessary.>

<Won’t hurt.>

I switched back to the original settings, maintaining our steady barrage against the two Lights. By now damage reports were coming in steadily as the two Light cruisers continued to bombard us. We were scoring sixty percent more often because of their slower launch time and less efficient ECM capability. But the hits were distributed between the two cruisers. Their combined efforts had begun to seriously affect our operational effectiveness. We were open to vacuum in several areas: Environment, Bays 24 and 28, and one bank of missiles tubes. We were down to one bank of five.

“Release the Sharks, XO,” Jordanno said as the battle intensified and the distances closed.

The Sharks proved effective but were taking heavy losses. Everyone knew we were fighting for our lives and the odds were getting worse as H1 approached. The Tiger  might survive against the two Lights but not without a heavy cost to ship and lives. While firing five missiles every thirty seconds from our one functional bank, I watched the time count down for the missiles heading for H1.

“Sir, contact with the H1 in ten...five…”

“We scored one...three...no…four hits. Looks like a couple drew blood. They appear to be changing course and heading for the transition point,” Abboto shouted seconds later.

The Tiger  shook again.

“Damage control reports another missile tube destroyed as well as the missile loading track. They have it on manual,” DeWayne reported.

<SAS missile sensors not bad. Riss option better. Harder to find.>

<I need permission.>

<Not need if dead.>

Amusement trickled through me. I left off the missile detection software and was prepared to fire two at each Light, when the ship shuddered three times and the door to the bridge blew off. Commander Kollar’s chair ripped loose from its mount and ricocheted off mine. I smashed against the console. Lieutenant Bennet at the helm was spun around and driven into the console. Jordanno and Uchida weren’t directly in the line of the blast; nevertheless heat and flying debris sprayed them.

<Light green.> My head spun and pain shot though my body. Somehow I managed to reach over and drop my hand on the firing button. Four projectiles left the ship heading for the two Light cruisers.

“Medics to the bridge. Commander Riddler, I’m passing control to you. The bridge is no longer functional,” Jordanno said while continuing to stare at the TAC.

“Captain, L1 has exploded; L2 seems to have lost power,” Abboto shouted.

“Colonel Quentin, drop your Scorpions. See if anything can be salvaged on L2. Commander Birkoff, call off your Sharks. You’re to support the Scorpions as needed,” Riddler ordered. He was running the backup bridge and now in command. Jordanno sat back in his chair, dripping blood—from somewhere. I blanked out.

* * * *

I woke in the hospital. This has got to stop or they’ll have to keep a bed designated specifically for me.

<You gone and damaged transportation vehicle, again.>

<How bad.>

<Three fractured ribs. Face, chest, arms burned. Multiple cuts and bruises.>

<I feel no pain.>

<Good doctor.>

A gentle feeling, like invisible hands massaging me. I lay there wondering about the price of winning. Who survived and who died?  With that thought, my world went black.

* * * *

When I woke, Terril was standing by the side of my bed.

“You missed all the fun. We stormed the Light cruiser you left for us and found fifty-five raiders alive. They seem determined to die and to take as many of us with them as they could. They set explosive charges in the hallways and compartments as we advanced. Only four survived—three who were seriously wounded and one after he ran out of ammo. Their computer was destroyed but we found a lot of Handcoms, which may contain useful information.” Terril paused, her eyes misty. “We lost a total of forty, thirty from missile strikes and ten in taking the raiders on the Light. Eighteen more were wounded. We earned our pay that day. How are you feeling, Lieutenant?”

“That day? How long have I been here?”

“Two days.”

<Thalia! How’s our vehicle?>

<Better. Cuts closed, Doctor Echart smeared salve on burns, bruises, and cuts, and bandaged. Concussion healed. Ribs fused together but fragile. Torn artery closed and repaired. Burns almost healed. Bruises gone. Got be more careful.>

“Thalia says I’m sort of healed. How are you  doing? I see your arm’s in a sling and a bunch of bandages.”

She smiled, but I could see she was in pain.

“My wounds are minor compared to others. They’ll throw me in the Rejuv unit later today, and I’ll be good to go. I’ll see you for Si’jin practice tomorrow.” She left, laughing.

<Sleep. Finish fix transportation.>

An interesting thought—we were our mind. The body was really no more than a mode of transportation—Gorillai for Riss, human for Riss-human.

* * * *

I woke feeling good and got out of bed, planning to return to my room to get ready for duty.

Echart appeared. “Good morning, Reese. I see you’re getting ready to leave us. Before you do, let me inspect you.” He grinned. “I presume Thalia has already checked you, but I have to pretend to be earning my pay. Besides, you and Thalia interest me. I wish I could use my expensive machines to follow Thalia’s repairs.”

“Thalia said I had a concussion, three fractured ribs, a ruptured artery, and multiple cuts and burns.”

“That’s more or less what I suspected. I tried to help by providing burn salve and patches over the cuts.”

“Thalia appreciated it. It helped prevent infection while she worked on the ribs.”

I spent the next hour with him discussing the precise injuries and what Thalia had done to heal them. He smiled like a kid at his birthday party.

“You seem well enough to leave our modest hotel, so I authorize your discharge. Come visit me from time to time. You and Thalia are fascinating. As you and her become better known, the next Riss-human program is going to have lots of volunteers.”

I returned to my room, washed, and dressed for duty. I felt a little sore but knew every able-bodied person would be needed. In the hospital, I learned the navy had lost one hundred eight people and one hundred six had been wounded—almost half of the crew. When I arrived at the bridge, I found all the positions filled by alternates. Commander Riddler had the watch.

“Sir, Lieutenant Reese, reporting for duty.”

Riddler looked tired. “You should be resting, but I appreciate you reporting for duty. We’re short-handed and need everyone who’s even marginally fit. I’m glad to see you made it. The last time I saw you I thought you were going to die. If you’re up to it, you can relieve Lieutenant Commander Blesel.” He pointed to an old man with gray hair and a craggy face. He looked worn out, but his smile was warm.

“The legendary Lieutenant Reese.” He remained seated. “Take a seat, Reese. You’ll have to tell me how you destroyed L1 and L2, when I’m awake enough to understand. We’re currently in orbit around Lords Landing. The followers of Bedwyr have tried everything to get us to let them board. They’ve offered medical, ship repairs, and equipment help. The XO has been very diplomatic in refusing. It’s obvious that they think we’re weak enough to be overpowered and for them to capture the Tiger. Right now they have five attack shuttles in orbit with us.” He pointed to the TAC. Five small red dots surrounded the black spot representing the Tiger. It looked like a star with orbiting planets. “The XO has been emphatic that he doesn’t want one more person to die. If you even suspect they’re attempting to attack, you’re authorized to fire without waiting for approval. Good night, Reese.” He rose and staggered off into the conference room.

I looked at Riddler questioningly.

He explained. “We’ve been manning all three shifts. The conference room is being used as a bedroom, so we’re always close if needed. Meals are being served at each station. Doctor Echart assures me the Captain, Uchida, and DeWayne will be fit for duty tomorrow or the day after. Lieutenant Commanders Kollar, Abboto, and Spiros, and Lieutenant Bennet were killed by the blast. You and Bessel will have to cover Tactical until we get home.”

I knew Kollar had taken the blunt of the blast, but I’d hoped she’d survived. I settled back and reviewed the boards Bessel had set up. He’d been tracking the shuttles with our fifty-centimeter lasers. I sat back and watched, hoping I didn’t have to be the one to kill them.

For two days, Bessel and I traded watches.

* * * *

Uchida and DeWayne reported for duty in the morning; the Captain arrived in the afternoon. Uchida had been the furthest from the blast. Judging from the pinkness of the skin on her face and hands, she had significant burns and probably lung damage. Dewayne had been closer. He’d remained in his chair as it was torn from the floor and slammed into the consol. He walked slowly, his gait indicating bone damage. The Captain’s shock chair had held but his neck brace indicated his vertebrae had been damaged. Like Uchida, DeWayne and Jordanno also had burn damage. If it hadn’t been for medical equipment like Rejuv, they probably would have died. With another session in Rejuv, they’d be back to normal. I suspect they’d spent only the minimum time required to repair the worse injuries, so as to make room for others needing critical attention. Jordanno sat down carefully and looked around the room.

“Commander Riddler informs me the crews have completed sufficient repairs to enable us to leave Lords Landing—so I think it's time we leave. Bessel, keep an eye on the Bedwyr. XO notify engineering to start engines. Uchida plot us a course to the Tamerland. We will need more repairs to make Eden. DeWayne, send a message to Tamerland, notifying them of our estimated arrival time along with a list of our damages.”

I noticed a slight vibration as the engines ignited. Instantly, I saw the Bedwyr shuttles’ weapons come on line. Before I could say anything, the shuttles exploded one by one. Bessel had been ready and hadn’t hesitated. He’d destroyed all five, although only two had brought their weapons on line.

“The area’s clear of traffic, Captain.”

* * * *

The trip to Tamerland took a little over a week. They estimated four months to make the necessary repairs. As I had lots of free time, I spent most of it with the Scorpions. My heart bled every time I went to their workout area. It seemed empty with only sixty remaining of the original one hundred. Now that the adrenaline of battle had worn off, the survivors were quiet. Valk’s Si’jin class had lost two. Several Scorpions asked to join. Terril agreed to take two and I agreed to take three. They didn’t like the idea of a waif-like navy type training them, but agreed. They had seen Terril and me fight.

“Reese, it’s time you got off this ship and saw the town. I’ll meet you in Bay 20 in one hour,” Terril said. We’d just finished a solid workout, and I felt good.

“Thanks, Terril. I don’t think so.”

“You’re not pulling rank, are you?” Terril frowned.

<Play acting.>

<I know. I don’t want to hurt her feelings.> I smiled at Terril. “I’ll cause you trouble. Even in Tamerland they know a Riss-human. It’ll be the same everywhere we go.”

“You’ll be going with Valk, me, and two other Scorpions. We’ll be wearing our uniforms. Most will show respect because they’ll know you’re from the Tiger; everyone will know you’re friends of Scorpions; and the rest will get a lesson in Si’jin.” She laughed.

<Like fresh air.>

<I’m sorry, Thalia.> “Thank you. Thalia and I would like that. I guess the public’s just going to have to get used to Riss-humans. Meet you in an hour.”

Thalia and I reveled in being out in public. Talking with people, eating in restaurants, shopping, and seeing the sights. Terril had been right. Most people were a bit nervous at first, but the fact that we were from the Tiger  made us heroes. The potential troublemakers kept their distance. Now and then one would make a nasty comment to me. When four Scorpions turned toward them, they were quick to apologize or move away. There was no way for me to thank Valk, Terril, and the others for what they’d done for me. In their eyes I was a friend and comrade. They had treated me to an experience I couldn’t have had without them. I loved them.

* * * *

When we arrived in Eden, we were immediately cloistered and spent the next two weeks being debriefed. What happened... How did you feel... What did so-and-so do when…

“Lieutenant Reese, Vice Admiral Zann would like to see you at 0900 hours tomorrow,” one of my debriefers informed me. “You’ll be glad to know this is the last of your debriefings.”

Promptly at 0845 hours, I entered the SAS Military Headquarters and received my pass to the forty-sixth floor where Zann’s office was located. There I was led to the waiting room and found the remaining Riss-humans: Jaelle, Alena, Petar, and Elissa.

“Nadya,” they said simultaneously and rushed me. It felt good, an alien among aliens.

“Lieutenants, Vice Admiral Zann is ready. Please follow me,” a JG informed us. He looked about ready to run if we moved to quickly. We entered Zann’s office, braced to attention, and saluted.

“Please help yourself to refreshments and relax.”

The table was loaded with sweets, cheeses, taffa and kaffa. We’d been led to her conference room, not her office. It was a plush room with executive chairs and a long wooden table that could accommodate twenty. We spent the first hour discussing our experiences. Zann frequently referred to files she had in front of her. While we talked, a running vid was going on between the Riss.

“Nadya, you seem to be the glue that has held this group together. If you had left the program, I believe it would have failed. Each of you has had plenty of reasons to leave. Nadya has used her contract well, and the coaching she has given each of you has reduced the abuse. I don’t know if I could have survived what you’ve already endured. You do it for the Riss and the Riss Nation is grateful. If you decide to leave, they’ll welcome you with open arms. They consider you blood Sisters.” She smiled at me. “Nadya has resigned twice. It’s not a technique I would recommend; however, it’s effective. They know it would require an inquiry and possibly their careers.

“I’ve convinced the Riss project administration to add an addendum to your contracts. Any superior who gives you a rating of less than good performance must do so on tape with you present. The Riss Project team will review that tape. The unsatisfactory reviews they gave Alena and Petra were reviewed and changed to satisfactory. Those officers have been given a letter of reprimand. Their careers are now on a very slow track. Be careful not to abuse this support. If your performance is less than satisfactory, admit it; otherwise state why it’s satisfactory. If one of you abuses it, all will suffer.”

Zann took us to the Admiral’s dining hall where we were introduced to those present, including Vice Admiral Youell, who was the Riss Project director.

* * * *

A ceremony for the crew of the Tiger was held the following day. The names of the dead were read along with many posthumous awards. A plaque was presented with the names of the Tiger’s compliment, which would be placed at the entrance to the Military Headquarters. Many awards were presented to the survivors; I was awarded my second Silver Star and the Purple Heart. This time they read what I’d done to earn it.

<It self-defense.>

<It makes them feel good and helps the Riss.>

<They should give you another for Blackstone and Owin.>

<It only counts if you’re defending others.>

<You saved me.>

I felt her amusement followed by a sense of satisfaction, which spread warmth through me. I smiled. It was Thalia’s joy of life and ability to find the amusing side of everything which had enabled me to survive. We’d gone from strangers, to friends, to sisters. We shared a common vision that saw the Riss and humans working together as equals. It would be a long journey, but the Riss were a patient race.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Clem Daems is a native of Chicago, Illinois. He served twenty-two years in the United States Air Force and is a graduate of the University of Arizona. He doesn’t consider himself an author, only a person who has learned that he enjoys writing. His favorite genre is science fiction and fantasy. His hobby for the past forty years has been Kung Fu and Tai Chi. He’s now retired and lives in Tucson, Arizona. To learn more about the author, visit his website at:

http://clemd.home.comcast.net/~clemd/JC/Index.html

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