Ver.
1.0
Copywrite 2003 Ellagon the Dragon all rights
reserved.
Star Dancer
Chapter 6
The next morning, Ian woke with the sun. The girls were still blissfully out of it. Ian made himself coffee, and watched the sunrise. A sunrise in the desert is a very peaceful, and beautiful thing to watch.
Ian heard a low moan from the back of the camper, and turned to see Talena, groaning, swing her legs out of bed. She got up, and kinda staggered to the little bathroom. Ian tried not to laugh at her, she looked like she was hung over. Her tummy muscles must really hurt her this morning. Ian got another mug out of the cup board and poured Talena some coffee. She had never drank it before so he made it sweet.
She came out of the bathroom, and walked up front with him. She was still nude, and acted like she didn’t really care if anyone seen her or not. Ian didn’t say anything, because no one would see her, no one else was about yet.
“Mornin’ love, sleep well?” Ian asked, as he kissed her softly on the forehead.
“I’m so tired! You two wore me out so bad last night. I’m thinking about going back to bed.” She said.
“You can, you know. It’s still pretty early, but if you don’t, I poured you a cup of coffee.” Ian said
“Is that what smells so good? I used to smell it when we lived at your old house, but never thought to ask about it.” She said.
“Well, it’s actually pretty bitter so I guessed at how much sugar you might want. I made it a bit sweeter then I drink it.” Ian told her.
She grabbed the mug from the counter, and crawled onto his lap in the lounge chair. “It’s also pretty hot, so just sip it.” Ian warned her. She sniffed it, then tentatively, took a small sip.
“That is pretty good, a bit sweet though, I think less sugar next time. It feels like it’s warming through my whole body, helping me to wake up. Even my stomach doesn’t feel as stiff now.” She said, and took another small sip.
She sat the mug down next to Ian’s, and lay her head against his chest. He pulled her closer to his chest, and hugged her. “I love you, Ian.” She said softly.
“I love you too, kitten.” Ian said. They sat there and watched the sun paint the sky.
Ian and Talena had finished their coffee, “I’m kinda stiff and sore from last night too, love, I’m gonna take a short run before it gets to hot out.” Ian told her.
“If it’s gonna be a short one, I’ll join you. The air seems thicker down here then on the ship, and it’s harder to run any distance.” She said, and went to dig out some clothes to wear, and her running shoes.
Ian shut off the coffee pot, and rinsed out their mugs as Talena got dressed. When he finished, she was ready. They went outside, and started doing warm-ups. “How about to the guard shack and back” Ian asked her. She thought for a moment, and nodded. “I think that’ll be about as much as I can take.” She grinned.
They stood, and started jogging. Ian slowing his long gait so the shorter girl could keep up with him. “Your new simulators should be here a bit later this morning.” Ian told her.
“That’s good, these kids are good in solo flights, but the Enemy would blow them away in a fight. They really need to learn the team work aspect of this. They could be one of the best fighter wings I’ve ever heard about if they can.” She said.
“I would like you to do me a favor. Elias’ kids, Kyle, and Stephanie are in your wing right?” He asked her. She nodded. “Good, train them as a team, they’ll be going back to the ship with me, and I think they would make an excellent team. I’ll be giving them each a comunit later today, so Star can begin their teaching programs”
“I had actually planned on teaming them up anyway. Why are they going back to the ship with you? How are you going to explain that? I can tell you right now they are not the only brother/sister pair in love here, though the rest seem to involve more then two people. I still don’t see the big issue about this, if two people love each other, who needs to interfere? It’s no one else’s business.” Talena said.
“I agree with you love, but it is the custom here, and terran biology also doesn’t allow for it, so it’s shunned.” Ian said. “I’ve learned so much abut Talosian customs and history, it sometimes feels like I grew up in two separate cultures. I have to actively think about what is the norm for where I am at any given time. That’s one of the reasons I’m happiest aboard ship, I don’t have to worry so much about messing up, and offending someone. Besides, I also miss Beth and Jenny when I’m here, and they aren’t along.” Ian admitted.
“I miss them too. You know, before… I met all of you, I thought I was happy, everything in my life was going the way I wanted it to go. Then the attack came, and everyone died.” She paused a minute, and stopped jogging. Ian stopped with her, and they walked. “I really wanted to just die myself. Then I met you and your family. You’ve shown me more love, and understanding then I’ve ever known. I miss my mother and Starlen, but, if it meant loosing all of you, I wouldn’t go back.” She finished. “Well!” She sniffed. “I guess we should get back to the run, it’s already starting to get hot out here, and we haven’t even made it to the guard house yet.”
“We all love you very much too, kitten.” Ian said. She smiled at him, and took off jogging. He caught up to her, and they finished their run in silence.
“Where the hell did you two run off to?” Cindy said as they arrived back at the camper. She had come out as they stretched and warmed down.
“We went for a run before it got too hot, love. You were sleeping so nice, we didn’t want to wake you.” Talena said, and kissed her.
“Well, next time, wake me please. I need to exercise too. Though you two sure gave me a work out last night.” She grinned and sipped her coffee. Ian and Talena chuckled, and continued their exercise. Cindy rose and said she would make breakfast, turned and went inside.
Right after breakfast Elias showed up, and told Ian the other contractors would be here in about two hours. Ian asked how soon a place for the new arcade building could be ready, and Elias said, the slab they had originally poured for the building should be big enough for the new trailer. They could park it there until they could get the building itself built. Ian and Elias wandered off to find Janet, and the girls got ready for the day.
Ian wanted to talk to Janet anyway, about the security people he wanted to get, and also about teachers, and help for herself, she was to over worked, and didn’t get to spend enough time with her family.
They found Janet in one of the spare trailers, and she offered them coffee. Ian declined, but Elias took a cup.
They sat down and Ian got right to the point. “Janet, the new contractors will be here in a little bit. But before they get here, I wanted to talk to you about some other things.” Ian said.
She smiled at him. “Ian, before you get started, let me ask you something first: Have you had Star scan the kids yet? There isn’t a child here that isn’t over the 80% DNA limit for the teaching gizmo.” She said. “School won’t be an issue, I have a couple of teachers lined up to come out and ‘monitor’ the ‘home schooling’. The teachers are also above the 80% DNA line , and are currently getting educated themselves.” She said.
“Now I remember why I wanted you to do this job. You knew what I was going to ask you about. Any idea how we convince all the parents to use the teaching technology? Or how we explain the fact that we have 6 year olds graduating from high school?” Ian asked.
“As a matter of fact I do. I’ve done a lot of traveling, and have seen a new trend in the school system. Computer based teaching. Some privately owned public schools are popping up, and they are overwhelmed. The reason is that they use this method to teach. Class size is bigger because the teacher is only there to help the kids with the computers. If we combine that with an early form of the Talosian teaching system, we can pull this off. We give the kids each a computer or two, and network them so Star can administer them. She can use the hypnotic system that the Talosians used before developing the sleep learning system. The good thing about this is that it should work on Terrans too. So the adults can even take evening classes as well. We also give the kids comunits so Star can monitor them. They don’t need the lenses so we can skip explaining that. This teaching method is not as fast as the sleep method, so we won’t have any kids graduating too early yet, but it is possible.” She finished explaining.
Elias looked at her with respect, “Damn, you really do have this figured out don’t ya?” He chuckled. “Besides, we have three school teachers among the wives as well, so that gives us five teachers, total.”
“They’ll have to know the whole story about the program. I didn’t want to count them until I got a chance to talk to you about including them.” Janet said to him.
Elias leaned back, “I think we can do this, we’ll have to go slow, but it’s do-able.” He said. “The thing that will get them, is the kids actually enjoying the learning process.”
“That’s the reason it has been hailed as such a success. The kids enjoy learning from a computer more than a human. I didn’t say anything about that though, so how did you know that?” Janet asked Elias.
He shrugged, “ever since I can remember, if I’ve been included in a planning session like what we just had, I get a, picture, I guess you could call it, of what we are talking about. That is if I understand it. I can see what will go wrong, and correct it before it happens. It usually only works during construction meetings though, but it worked here, just now.” He finished
Ian chuckled, and shook his head, “You know, I think Talena and I are the only two people with Talosian DNA that didn’t get any mental power. I think I’m jealous!” He chuckled.
“Actually Ian, Talena does have a power. But it’s ok if you haven’t noticed it. She has the ability to charm people. No matter what she says to anyone, she can get them to accept what she tells them. No one will ever get mad at her, at least not if she’s present, and it won’t last once she learns of it. I bet she doesn’t even know she does it.” Janet said.
Ian felt his heart skip a beat. Does that mean what he feels for the girl is her projecting her feelings? How does he know that what he thinks he feels is real? He felt slightly sick as those thoughts spun in his mind. It must have shown on his face, because both Janet, and Elias noticed.
“Son, relax. I’ve seen the way you look at her. She can’t be projecting all the time, so what you feel must be real. Yes she does love you, but I don’t think she could influence you or anyone else all the time.” Elias said.
“He’s right Ian, “Janet said, placing her hand on his arm. “Yes she does love you and the girls too, but no matter what, she can’t influence everyone all the time. Besides, the love you feel is way too deep to be induced by someone else. I’ve seen it in your eyes, the way you look at Jenny, Cindy, and Beth, Yes Ian, you do really love Talena.”
“Thanks, I was really worried about it. I guess it’s just gonna take me some time to get used to it.” Ian said.
“Besides,” Janet said. “You do have a mental power.”
“Huh? No, I don’t. I’ve never been able to do anything.” Ian said.
Janet took a deep breath, “Ian, I’m attracted to you, but you know I would never do anything that might hurt Jenny, or Julie and Bill right?”
“Of course not. You love then too much to do anything of the sort!’ Ian replied.
“Good, now I want you to concentrate, and order me to suck your cock. I will do my best not to, and please stop me if this actually works, ok?” Janet said.
“No Janet! That just wouldn’t be right. If it did work, I would feel like I violated you’re trust! I couldn’t do that to you.” Ian said.
“That’s why you will stop me before I actually do it. I trust you completely, Ian. Even with my life, you’ll be able to stop me. So just do it, you need to see this work.” She said, steeling herself.
“If you say so, but if I can’t remand the order, what do I do then?” Ian said.
Janet smiled, “Enjoy the blow job I hope!”
Elias sat fascinated. Ian took a deep breath, and concentrated on the command, and imagined Janet bending down, taking his cock out of his pants, and sucking it. He took a deep breath, and said: “Janet, Suck my cock.”
Ian could see her jaw clenched tightly, as she slowly dropped to her knees from her chair, and started undoing his pants. He watched astounded as she reached inside, and grasped his half hard cock. Her hand wrapping around his shaft, shocked him back, “Janet Stop!” he said.
She dropped back on her haunches, and breathed heavily. “My god! I tried not to do it, but my mind was actually telling me I need too! I couldn’t stop myself!” She said.
Elias had watched the whole thing. “Damn son! I would be real careful about how I use that ability! You can make someone do anything!”
“But Star said this wasn’t supposed to work on someone else with a talent. How could it work on Janet?” Ian asked.
Janet shook her head, as she got back into her chair. ”I don’t know, but I felt you use it once, for what I can’t remember, but I knew you had a power.”
Ian sat stunned for a few minutes. “Wow, talk about your revelations! I need to think about this some more, but I also needed to talk to you about a couple of other things today too.” He said to Janet.
He told her about his concerns about security at the facility, and that he had asked Commander Harris down to discuss it. She nodded, “He might just know someone. I haven’t ran into anyone even remotely capable of handling security. Though there is one man I need to find. He used to be a spy or something.” She said.
“Now, the last item: We need to find another recruiter or two. You’re too overworked, and I’d like to see you spend sometime with your family. There’s a lot of work to be done, and you need some help.” Ian said.
She smiled at him. “You’re so sweet. I think there might be a couple of people that can help. I need to talk to them some more, but I’ll let you know.” She said.
Just then there was a beep from Elias’ radio. “Mr. Johnson, there are some folks here to see you.”
Elias grabbed the Radio, “Thanks Tommy. Direct them to trailer 150 please.”
“Yes sir. Sir, is Mr. Williams with you?” Tommy said.
“Yes he is.” Elias said.
“Sir, could you tell him there are two very large trailers here as well?”
“I’ll let him know Tommy, thanks.” Elias said. When Tommy said no more, he put the radio back on his belt clip. “Well, looks like we got busy all the sudden. Two trailers?” Elias asked, looking at Ian.
Ian shrugged, and stood, “Mind if I use your go cart, Elias?”
“Not at all, keys are in it.” He said, and Ian left to go see to the trailers.
Ian drove to the gate, and was astounded by the site of the two sections of a double wide trailer, setting off to one side of the road. The roofs of the two sections looked strange, until Ian realized with a start that both were actually solar panels.
Standing beside the guard shack were Commander Harris, and a smaller man with a tool belt, and wearing a uniform, complete with rank insignia. The guard was talking with Commander Harris, but kept his eye on the uniformed ensign.
The over eager young man had forgotten to change before coming here. Ian thought quickly. He had an explanation ready by the time he pulled up to the guard house. Evidently Commander Harris had already pointed out the ensigns’ mistake because the young man didn’t salute Ian. He did kinda stiffen, as if trying not to come to attention. Ian chuckled. “Hello John! How’ve you been?” Ian said, shaking hands with the big man.
:Good, Ian, good. How’re things out here? Been a while since we talked last.” Commander Harris kept up the banter. Ian turned to the ensign, and held out his hand. “Saunders isn’t it? I’d heard you guys on the design team had taken to calling yourself’s ‘the flight crew’.” Ian said the young man looked confused for a minute, then his eyes widened as he got it.
“Yes Sir. We thought it would be neat to create uniforms too.” He grinned, and Ian winked at him.
“So Saunders what have you and this titan brought me?” Ian said.
“It’s the new fli…er, game system. We built it into the trailers, and incorporated solar power for this installation. Since this is the proto-type, we are working on making it more maneuverable.” Ensign Saunders said as Ian led them back to the trailers.
When they were out of ear shot of the guard, Ian said, “Nice save Ensign, but next time, try to remember to change first.”
“Yes Sir, thank you sir.” He said back.
“Let’s get these things put where they belong.” Ian said, and led the two men back to the go cart. Star’s holographic drivers, followed them into the compound, and parked the two expertly together, and then they unhooked and left. Ensign Saunders would do the assembly. He explained that it was actually the building itself that would do the work, he was just there to make sure it worked, and to set up all the computer connections, and power up the system. He immediately set to work, Ian turned to Commander Harris, “Think you can find some trouble get into? I need to stick my head in a meeting for a bit.”
“Sure, I seen your wife and Talena talking to a bunch of kids about flying, I think I’ll go over and listen in.” He smiled. Ian nodded, and left to find Elias.
Ian found Elias still at Janet’s place, and she was chatting with the four individuals that had shown up; three men and a woman. Ian came in, and poured himself a cup of coffee. Janet smiled at him as he walked over to the table where they were sitting, she made introductions.
They all seemed a little amazed that an 18 year old could run this large of an operation, and were impressed by his commitment to the people working for him. Elias had outlined what the job entailed, and the requirements. He had shown them the plans for the community, and what needed to be done. Both companies agreed to do it, and to the interview of all their employees. Ian told them he would get the lawyers to draw up the contracts, and get them either to them or to their lawyers later that day. Elias had told them they were a bit behind schedule. Both companies were finishing up jobs, and had nothing else pending, so could devote all their resources to getting the facility back on track. They all shook hands, and they left. The new people would start to arrive the next week. Ian called the lawyer who handled the contracts, and filled him in on the details, and gave him the addresses of the two firms Ian had just hired.
The Lawyer, Amos Tesla, asked Ian if it would be ok for him to relocate to the facility now since he had finished all his other obligations. He pointed out that he could better deal with last minute items if he was on site. Ian approved, but warned him the conditions were still pretty primitive. The lawyer laughed, and said his wife and son loved the outdoors, and would be happy in a tent. He would be moving as soon as he sold his house. Ian hung up.
“Janet, there is a shipment coming down from the ship tonight, I’ve ordered the shuttle to wait for you.” Ian said.
“The survey crew!” Elias slapped his forehead, and ran out of the trailer.
Ian and Janet both laughed. “Thank you Ian. That demonstration earlier has had a bad side effect. I can’t wait to get a dick in my mouth!” She said.
“Sorry!” Ian said, grinning.
“Don’t be! I felt what you’ve got hidden in there.” She pointed at his crotch. “You’ve got nothing to be sorry for!” She smiled at him as he blushed.
Ian got up, rinsed out his coffee cup, and excused himself. He walked back over to the arcade, to check on Ensign Saunders.
When Ian got there, he found the Ensign under the frame of the trailer, snapping connectors together, and humming to himself.
“You okay under there Saunders?” Ian called.
“Just fine, sir. I should be done in a couple of hours.” The Ensign replied.
“Very good, Saunders. If you need anything, just ask. When you’re done, come and find me okay?” Ian asked.
“Sure thing, Sir. Thank you!” Saunders answered.
Ian walked over to the ‘park’ where the girls had been talking to the new pilots. As he approached Cindy had just finished introducing him as a technical advisor on the new game system.
John walked
to the front of the group, and started talking. “Hi everyone, like Cindy said,
I am John Harris, I am a retired navy flight officer. Since you all have done
so well on the first generation of our game system, we decided to see how well
you could do on the next generation. We plan on marketing this just as you will
see it, a room with ten fighter simulators. We are wanting to create groups,
like you all over the
The kids clapped and thanked him as he walked back to Ian. Ian stood, and all the kids looked at him. He smiled. “The new system has already arrived, and is being setup as we speak. Mr. Saunders tells me he should be finished by tonight, but will need to test it, so you should get to see it sometime tomorrow.” He said. “Please do tell us what you think, it’s really important to the game division.”
He turned and led John off to his camper. “So, boss, I take it you didn’t call me down here to lie to a bunch of kids did you?” John asked, grinning slightly.
“Actually, John, you didn’t lie to them, you just didn’t tell them the whole truth. We really do want their feed back on the system, and we really are thinking about setting up game centers.” He chuckled, “but you’re right, I didn’t call you down here just for that.” Ian sighed, and opened the door to the camper. John walked in, and Ian made more coffee, and started making some sandwiches.
“Commander, We have a problem here. Since we know that the Enemy is already here, I am afraid that they might link this compound with the ship. I’m also concerned about mundane greed making someone attack this compound. The Talosians had a contingent of marines on board, and I would like to know if you know anyone who might be interested in the job.” Ian asked as he made them lunch.
John looked a bit shocked, but considered for a minute, and nodded. “You’re making a fine Captain sir. I’d not even thought about security for this place, but you’re right. It needs it, and fast. I know a few people who might be interested in joining the team, but I need to know how much I can tell them. I trust these men completely, but I think it might take some showin’ to get them convinced. These men are ex seals. Some people call them crazy, but they are the best. I will have to take them aboard ship to show them the truth before they’ll agree though. They don’t trust easily, but once they do, they trust completely” He finished. Ian handed him the phone. “How much do I tell them it pays?” John asked.
“Same as you, tell them it’s negotiable. They are the security experts, I’ll let them evaluate the risk, and name their price. Once they see everything, we’ll tell them what it really pays.” Ian answered.
“Fair enough.” He said, and started dialing. Ian ignored him, and finished making lunch. He put a plate in front of John, and carried the rest of the food to the table. Cindy and Talena came in and sat quietly waiting for John to get off the phone. He paused and looked to Ian, “They agreed to come and look, where do you want them?” John asked.
“We’ll get them tickets to here, then we’ll leave from here. Just let me know where and when they want to leave from” Ian said.
John
relayed the information, waited and chuckled. He looked at Ian, “Two hours,
from
Ian nodded,
and lifted his wrist. John waited as Ian had Star make the arrangements. When
he was done, Ian told John, “Two hours, Private gate 54, I’ve chartered a plane
to get them to
John relayed the info, and said “See ya tonight” and hung up. “That was their first test you know. To see if you could do what you said you could.”
“Well, I hope we passed, because it’s costing a hell of a lot of money to get them out here like that.” Ian said. “The shuttle that brought you down is still here, Janet Laskar will be going back on it tonight, you and the team can go as well. Explain it to them, show them around, let them know what we’re doing here. Use Janet, since she’ll be with you. Take what time you need, when you’re done, bring them back here. I’ll want to talk to them, and answer any of their questions.” Ian said.
“Okay, I’m pretty sure they’ll do it. Once they know the situation.” John said.
Elias knocked on the door, Talena opened it for him. “Sorry to bother you during lunch Ian, but there is a snotty bitch at the gate named Ms. Pritchard at the guard house demanding entrance. She has a car load with her, and Tommy has had to stand in front of the car to stop them from coming in.” He sighed, “You want me to take a crew and scare them off?” He asked.
“Damn she sure acted fast. No, I’ll handle Pritchard.” He rose. “She gave me a hard time over the phone yesterday, it will be my pleasure to ‘scare’ her off.” Ian said, a wicked gleam in his eye.
He rose from the table, and, grabbing the Hummer keys and left.
He drove down to the gate, and parked directly in front of the grey sedan, currently pushing Tommy backwards. Tommy stepped out of the way as Ian drove up, and inched the Hummer up to the front of the sedan, lightly tapped the front of the sedan. Ian stopped the truck, put it in park, shut it off, and got out.
“Tommy, would you please call the sheriff, and tell him there has been an accident out here?” Ian calmly asked the guard, who nodded, and started dialing.
Ms. Pritchard jumped out of the car and screamed “Damn right call the sheriff! You hit my car! I’ll have you up on charges, I’ll sue you!” She screamed.
Ian calmly looked at Tommy, “Would you please also inform him of trespassers, and an attempted vehicular homicide? I will be holding the person responsible until he arrives.”
“What the hell is that supposed to mean? You hit me! I have witnesses! I’m going to sue you for every dime I can! I will shut you down, and…”
“SHUT UP!” Ian cut her off. He felt the use of power this time, and a look of fear crossed Pritchard’s face. “I am placing you under arrest for the attempted vehicular assault on Tommy here, and for trespassing. You will wait quietly in your car for the sheriff. Once he gets here, you will tell him what you tried to do to Tommy, and that you knowingly trespassed on this property after you were warned not to. You will accept whatever punishment the courts give you and you will never have anything to do with this facility again. Do you understand me?” Ian said to her.
She simply nodded, and went back to her car. The sheriff said he would have a deputy out there in about an hour and a half. Ian got back in his truck, backed up, turned around, and drove back to his lunch. Ian asked Elias to take a case of water down to the guard house for Tommy, and his ‘guests’. Elias chuckled after Ian had related what had happened.
“She’s just going to sit there, and wait for the sheriff?” John asked.
“She thought she could win.” Ian shrugged.
The Deputies showed up, and took charge of Ms. Pritchard and company, They read them their rights, and Ian signed the complaints against them. They left and all was quiet again for a time. Two semi’s showed up with loads of posts, and were directed by Tommy where to go to unload. Ian looked closely and only spotted the drone ‘s shadow once. Star was using a multi purpose drone to create the holograph of the semi and the driver, but since there was a lot of mass involved, needed a bigger drone than a regular holo-drone.
Ian found Elias, talking to a four man crew about beginning the placement of the posts the next day. When he was done, Ian led him back to the camper.
“The construction drones are here.” Ian told him once they were alone. He had star project an arial view of the land around the facility. “I was planning on having them create an underground hanger facility for ten fighters, here.” He outlined an area on the map close to where they now stood. “The launch tubes will face away from us, and come out here, just on the other side of the ridge behind were the offices will be. Then They will create a network of tunnels out to the gun and missile sites.” Ian then indicated the spots. “They will build a small transit system through the tunnels so people can get out there. The implacements will be on grav-lifts so they won’t be visible unless we’re using them. I large fusion reactor will supply the power.” Ian finished. “What do you think?”
Elias nodded slowly, “I think you’ve thought this out. It looks good to me. Geology was never my strong suit, but that shouldn’t really be an issue. However, You might want to go a bit deeper in a couple of spots. See here, and here? The sewer lines are going to be running through there. Star? Can you overlay the town plan on this, and zoom in on the community?” The blueprints for the town were added to the Holograph, and then it zoomed in on the community. “Now please highlight in red any areas of overlap between the two plans?” Several places glowed red. “There, I think if you dropped the depth another four, no five feet we’ll clear each other. I’d also add a few emergency exits, or enterances in a few more places, like here,” he pointed to the newly added security control building, “and one here as well.” he pointed to the future rec. center. Star added them in, as he indicated them.
Ian nodded. But we won’t add any enterances until the buildings are finished, and no one is there to see them appear.” Ian said.
“I think there’s plenty to keep the drones busy until we get those buildings up.” Elias said. “Which reminds me, how are you going to get the fighters down there? The drones can’t build those if I remember correctly.”
Ian smiled, “You see this long wide tunnel?” He pointed to a long dead ended tunnel.
“Yeah?” Elias said.
“They will land out in the desert, and then be shuttled back to the launch bay.” Ian said.
“You did think this through.” Elias smiled.
“Star? Turn the drones loose. Start them here.” He pointed to the long end of the recovery tunnel.
When they had finished talking Ensign Saunders was waiting for Ian. “How long have you been sitting out here Saunders?” Ian asked, “You could have knocked.”
“Oh, no problem, sir, I’ve only been here a few minutes. I saw you and Mr. Johnson talking, so I waited.” He said. He was covered with sweat, and breathing deeply like he had ran over here.
“Well, come on in where it’s cool, and let me get you something to drink.” Ian said. The young man followed Ian into the air conditioned camper, and sighed. “Saunders, have you ever been in the desert before?” Ian asked.
“Not that I can remember sir.” He answered.
Ian smiled.
“Then I should tell you a few things. It’s currently 115 degrees outside.
Unless it’s a matter of life and death never run after
Saunders looked at the glass in his hand, and took a mouthful, lowered the glass and swallowed. Ian nodded at him. “Yes like that, be sure to space out the drinks too, you take too many to fast, and it’ll still get you.” Ian poured himself a glass, and sat down.
“Now, the reason I wanted to see you. Would you mind staying down here for awhile? We need someone around here to set up the equipment and the like. You probably won’t have much to do to begin with, except watch over the system you just installed, but as time goes by, we’re going to need you more and more. We’ve got computer systems to set up for the kids in every house, a secure wireless network for the whole compound, the equipment for the power station, and the security complex. The list goes on. Since there isn’t a whole lot built yet, you should be able to keep up with the construction crews. If you get tired or bored we can rotate you back to the ship for a bit too. What do you say? Will you stay on here, and help get this setup?” Ian asked him.
“Absolutly sir! I’ll stay here.” He said.
“Good, I’ll have Elias get you a place to live. Speaking of which, were are you staying tonight?” Ian asked him.
“Oh, I was gonna stay in with the new system. Star is currently running a level 1 on all the new circuits, and making sure everything is ok, then she’ll be ready in the morning.” He said.
“Okay, but tomorrow, I’ll have Elias get you some place to live. Use the store to buy anything you might need to furnish it. Just give them your name, and we’ll pay for it.” Ian stood, and held out his hand.
Saunders stood and shook it, “Thank you sir.” He said. Ian nodded, as Saunders finished his water and left.
Ian found himself alone in the camper, the Girls went off to find the other kids, and John was out wandering around the site. Ian hoped the seals John had called would prove to be what John said they would be. A seal team for security would be excellent. Ian had never actually seen a seal team in action, but if half of what he had heard about them was true, it would be nice to have them working for him.
Ian passed the time going over the design for the security building. He included an attached garage for their vehicles, and a vault for an armory. Ian also placed the primary entrance to the underground facility there, then tagged it for Elias’ approval
He heard the thumping of a helicopter, in the distance, so he left to meet the men at the guard shack.
John was already waiting; he smiled as Ian pulled up. "I figured they would be getting' here about now, so I made sure I was in the area."
"Good thing too, I have no idea what to say to them. I'm actually kinda nervous. I've always viewed these guys with awe. Officially the government always says all they do is train, but I know better. How do you tell someone thank you for something they can't admit to doing?" Ian said.
"Well, sir, let me ask you this; why are you doing all this?" John asked.
"Because, if we don't do this, who will? No one knows of the threat to this planet, and even if they did, they're not in any position to do anything about it. We've got to do this." Ian said.
"That’s a good reason. Now, why do you think these men did what they did?" He asked.
Ian thought for a moment. "For the same reason we are doing all this. I think I understand, but that still doesn't mean I don't appreciate all that they have already done. They deserve our gratitude at least for that." Ian said.
"Ian, you're still new to this, but I think you'll come to see it later. You can show them your appreciation simply by treating them with respect. You're already pretty good at that. I don't think I've ever met an 18 year old kid that could even handle the amount of responsibility you've pulled on yourself. Most would be intolerable, or to damn cocky. I truly believe Star when she says you were born for this. Trust me, just relax, and be yourself, don't lie or try to hide anything from these guys, they'll see it. That's what they do. I Janet if we could do this meeting at her trailer, and she said that would be great. She's good at full discloser, let her work her magic." John said.
Conversation was impossible, as the chopper settled to the ground, and six men piled out of it.
The men walked toward the guard shack as the helicopter took off. As they got closer, Ian realized that two of them were female. What confused him, was the tall black woman, walked just like the others, and Ian only realized she was female by her face. She wore loose clothing that hid her body. The other had short hair, and was really stocky, like a short body builder.
They walked up to John and Ian, John held out his hand, "Welcome to Talos, Ladies, and Gentleman. Allow me to introduce my friend, and employer; Ian Williams. Ian, may I introduce Ty Anders, Lee Cole, Steve Barrows, Joel Wayne, Samantha (Sam) Lewis, and Tabitha Harris."
Ian shook their hands, all had firm grips. When he got to the last name, Ian's ears perked up, he looked at John who grinned. "Yes, she's my sister. But don't hold that against her."
"As John said, welcome to Talos, people. We've got a more comfortable place to talk for a bit, before we start showing you around. If you'd all pile in, we'll get going." Ian said.
"Thanks for asking us out Mr. Williams. Truth be told, we were honestly considering mercenary work. John assured us this would be something we'd be interested in, so here we are." Ty Anders said.
"Please, call me Ian. Mr. Williams died when I was three. I hope you'll consider what we need you to do. It may seem like guard duty, but there is a lot more involved." Ian said. Everyone got into the hummer, and they drove to Janet's trailer.
When they got there, John asked Ian if he could talk to the team alone for a couple of minutes.
"Sure, just come on in when you're done." Ian said, got out, and went inside.
Ian got in the door, and Janet was just finishing a large dinner; steak, baked potato's, cauliflower in cheese sauce, and some manicotti. Ian helped her to set the table.
Just as they were finishing up, John led the team in. "Figured we could talk over dinner if you don't mind. Janet here is a great cook." Ian then introduced her to everyone, and she asked how they liked their steak, or if the preferred vegetarian. She got the orders, and left to get the food. She had anticipated correctly, and had everything ready. Tabitha was the vegetarian.
They all dug
in, and started eating. Ty had been the commander of the team, and acted as the
spokesman for the group. "Ian, John
tells us we can trust you completely, that we are in effect more of a security
risk to you, then you are to us. We've known him for years, so we trust his
judgment.' He paused, and took a deep breath. "Sam there is our
demolitions expert. Tabitha is the teams sniper, the rest of us are the
insertion team. We'd like to think there isn't anything we can't do or anywhere
we can't go. That said, we have agreed on one rule; under no circumstance will
we do anything against the
"What we have in mind shouldn't conflict with that. I love my country too." It was Ian's turn to take a deep breath. "I know a lot of what we are going to tell you might seem to be bullshit. I only ask that you sit and listen to all of it, then let us prove it. You don't need to make your decision about joining us until after we have shown you everything. Again, please keep in mind, I didn't fly you out here to lie to you, or to con you into anything. After you've seen everything, if you want to leave, we'll get you home, no problem." Ian said. He turned to Janet, "You're on lady."
Ian sat back watched and listened. Janet calmly started talking. She simply told them everything that was going on, and everything they expected to happen. No one asked any questions. They didn't immediately scoff, but the looks an their faces said they didn't believe a single word.
When Janet finished, Ian stood. "Folks, before you get mad, remember, I asked you please with hold judgment until we could prove it to you. You all have a flight to catch. John will take you to the ship, and show you around. Janet will go with you since she wanted to see her family again, so if you have any questions, once you figure out that we really are telling you the truth, just ask her. I'll also be available once you get back." Ian said.
"You really expect us to believe this don't you?" Lee asked.
"Nope, I expect you to go and see for yourself. Once you've done that, I'll be happy to answer any other questions you've got. This isn't costing you anything, at no time will anyone ask you for anything. Look at it this way; if, when you get back you still think this is all fake, you had a hell of a show." Ian said.
"We'll go, but you gotta admit, this does sound pretty far out there." Ty said.
"Yes it does. You can ask whatever questions you want, of anyone you meet. Keep an open mind, and I'll see you all tomorrow night." Ian said.
"So, when do we leave? Or do you need to call Scotty?" Sam said, chuckling.
Ian smiled back at her, "As soon as Janet is ready, She'll drive you all out to the shuttle, and you'll leave from there."
"I'm ready now!" Janet said, "Laura said she'd clean up after we leave tonight."
"Speaking of Laura, and her family, I need to talk to them yet tonight." He kissed Janet on the cheek. "Tell my wife I love her, and miss her, and I'll be home soon?"
"Sure
will. See ya later, Ian." Janet said, hugging him, then opened a closet,
and grabbed her bag. She then led the seal team out to her
Ian turned to John, and shook his hand. "Thanks for your help, John. I hope they'll stay. Your sister sure didn't say much though."
"She's just that way. I'm sure they'll stay once they see that this isn't bullshit. I'm pretty sure Tab will stay anyway, just because I'm here. I'm all the family she has left, after the team that is. Don't worry Captain, Lt. Anders and crew will say the oath before we land tomorrow night." John said.
"Have a good flight my friend." Ian said.
"I'll see you when you get back, Ian." John said, they walked out to the cars, John got in, and they left.
Ian got in the Hummer, and drove the short distance to Elias' house. He had called one of the drones to meet him there. He got three comunits, with lenses, and sent the drone back. Ian then walked up to Elias' door, and knocked.
Elias opened the door, smiled, and waved him in. "Your timing is excellent, we were trying to figure out how to tell the kids. You have any suggestions?" Elias said. He was clearly nervous.
Ian thought for a moment, and smiled, "As a matter of fact, I do." He held up his wrist, the holodrone from Janet's trailer. He knew she kept one there. A moment later Elias door simply opened, then closed. Ian grinned at the look on Elias face.
"I still have to get used to all the hidden gadgets you have running around here." He said.
Ian chuckled, "Show and tell night. I just hope I don't scare the shit out of the kids." Ian said. Then it dawned on him he was talking about two people two and three years younger then himself.
Elias led Ian to a comfortable looking recliner in the living room. He called Kyle and Steph out from their rooms, and sat next to his wife on the sofa. While they were waiting for the kids; Elias said, "Andrea, my sister, called, she'll be out in a couple of days. I had told her you were interested in hiring her, and she simply quit her job when they wouldn't let her take vacation. She hadn't taken any in two years, and they refused to let her go without a months notice. She told them to go to hell."
Ian looked surprised. "From what you've told me I got the impression she wasn't that forceful a person."
"She usually isn't, but she told me she got so pissed, it just happened before she could get her mouth to shut up." Elias chuckled.
“I think this is going to be interesting. I look forward to meeting her.” Ian said.
The kids had arrived by then and caught the tail end of the conversation. “Is Aunt Andrea coming to visit?” Stephanie asked.
“Yes she is, and she might be staying too. But that’s not the reason we asked you out here.” Elias said.
“So what’s up Dad?” Kyle asked.
“Actually, Kyle, Your Dad asked me to come talk to you two.” Ian said.
“Okay, Since you’re smiling, I think it’s safe to assume we haven’t done anything wrong.” Kyle said.
“No you haven’t done anything wrong, at least as far as I’m concerned. However, something has come up that might make it hard for to you live here. I’m here to help with that. Kyle I’m led to believe that you’ve fallen in love?” Ian smiled at him.
“Uh, I, uh…” He glanced at Stephanie, “Yeah, I guess I have.”
Ian looked at Stephanie, “I also understand that you have found yourself in a similar situation.” She simply nodded, not trusting herself to speak. Her hand grasped Kyle’s though, and Ian noticed and his smile grew.
“Perhaps I should tell you a few things you don’t know about me or my family. You obviously know my sister Cindy?” They both nodded, and he continued. “I am trusting you to keep this to yourselves. She is my sister yes, but more importantly she is also my wife, and is going to give birth to our children.”
Both kids just sat there and stared at him. “Yes, Cindy is actually my wife. So is my mother; Beth, as well as Jenny.” He leaned back, “There is a long story behind that, and one of the reasons I’m here.” Ian told them. He went on to tell them the story of the Talosians, and of their heritage. He took a break in the explanation, to catch his breath and to give them a chance to ask any questions they might have.
They were quiet, they both looked stunned. Kyle was obviously trying to think about what Ian just told them.
“So, because you’re Talosain, you can marry your sister and mother?” Stephanie asked.
“Well yes. Talosian bio-physics had eliminated the genes that caused birth defects in children of incestuous relationships. Some trait in the Talosian race caused the females to have an…well, I suppose the best way to say it is that, they were very…uh, sexually active earlier, and more often then a typical Terran female is. This resulted in a higher occurrence of incest.” Ian said.
“God, don’t I know it!” Kyle said softly.
Laura took a sharp breath, and Elias cleared his throat.
Realizing he was overheard, Kyle looked at his parents, “Mom, Dad. I love Stephanie, and she loves me. She is not on the pill, and we couldn’t get any condoms without you hearing about it, so we’ve not done anything, except go down each other. I don’t want to hurt her, or you, we were afraid of her getting pregnant.” He said.
“That must have taken some real self control.” Ian said, trying to give Elias, and Laura time to recover.
“Yes son. That had to be hard on both of you. I,” He glanced at his wife, “no, we, are proud of both of you.” Elias said.
They both smiled. “We knew that us falling in love might hurt, and definitely would create problems for you. We didn’t want that, so we kept it quiet.” Stephanie said.
Kyle’s mental log jam must have started to break up, because he said, “Hold it a sec. You’re telling us that the flight game is real? Why are you telling us all this?”
“Yes Kyle, the flight simulator is real. We developed it to see find pilots. In fact all the games in the arcade are simulations of real equipment. You and your friends have really surprised us. As to why I’m telling you all this; Your parents love both of you very much. He asked me if I knew of a way that you two could be together, and still get the education you wanted, without having to worry about what people will think.” Ian told them.
So, you found a way, and that’s why you’re here, to tell us about it.” Stephanie said.
Ian grinned at her. “Yep, So let me officially ask you, Kyle, Stephanie, Would you like to accompany me back to the ship, so you can be together, and to get the education you both want?”
They looked each other in the eyes, and Kyle looked to their parents. “Do you two, is this okay with you?”
“Kyle, Ian wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t. Before you agree however, I want you know that your Aunt is coming out here for an interview, true. But your father and I are also going to ask her to be our mate.” Laura said.
“Mom! You like girls?” Stephanie asked.
“Actually hon, I only like her, that I know of. No other woman has turned me on like your Aunt Andrea.” Laura said, “But, I want you to know, there is nothing wrong with liking girls. It’s just our society that shuns it. So, yes I guess I am bisexual.”
The two sat and considered it for a moment longer, then turning back to Ian, her hand held firmly, and proudly in his, Kyle said, “Yes, We will go with you.” Stephanie nodded as well.
“Good,” Ian smiled, “Now a further question. Since Talosian law states the age of maturity is 16, I can only ask Kyle, Would you also like to join our fighter wing, as a pilot? It doesn’t preclude training in another field, in fact, we encourage it. Stephanie can continue to train with you, but I cannot officially ask her to join yet.” Ian said.
Kyle though a moment, “Yes, I’ll join. I was wondering how I was going to get into the Air Force married to my sister.” He said, grinning.
“You know I always thought there was something wrong with me. I’m in love with my brother and am attracted to other girls. One of the reasons I like Cindy and Talena so much is that they don’t care who sees their feelings for each other. Hey! If Cindy is your wife, and she is in love with Talena…” Stephanie started.
“…Yes, I am in love with her too, but since she is only 14, and we need to be careful with Terran law, she hasn’t officially became our wife yet.” Ian finished for her.
“Four wives?” Kyle said. “I don’t think I could do it. Stephanie is all I could ever want.”
“I feel the same way about each of them as well. You need to remember though, that they are all in love with each other too. They not only sleep with me, but each other. We all share our love for each other; the sex is just a small part of that.” Ian said.
“I think I understand.“ Stephanie said.
“Good, you can help me with it!” Kyle grinned.
“Now, since you have both agreed, I have something I need you to put on. You will be taking an official oath, later, binding you to what you’ve agreed to here. But to help you to understand and learn your heritage, as well as get you learning what you’ll want to learn, you’ll need to wear these.” Ian said, and pushed two comunits across the coffee table to them, he also pushed one over to Laura. “You can leave them in all the time, and, in fact Star wants you too. She can monitor your physical well being, as well as it being a communication device. Do either of you wear contact lenses?” Steph nodded, “Good, take them out, and put these in. Then help Kyle if you would. You need to put the lenses in for the teaching function to work. Most of your education will be done in your sleep. It’ll start tonight. Star will ask you some questions about where you went to school and what your interests are, to help guild what you learn. You can both expect to graduate from high school in less then a month.” Ian said.
“Laura, you’ve known the truth for some time now, so it’s about time you started to reap some of the benefits of that. This will enable you to communicate with your kids, and Elias, or anyone else wearing them. You can also learn any skill you want, just ask Star to teach you. Any questions?” Ian finished
“Thousands.” Kyle said. “But I’ll hold off until I can actually think of one.”
Ian grinned at him. “I’ll get going then, since it’s getting late. We’ll be here for a couple more days yet. You’ll only need to take personal items. Things like clothes and toiletries you can get on the ship. Remember, you can’t tell anyone the truth. Tomorrow, your folks, and you, can figure out a cover story to tell your friends here.” Ian said, and rose.
Everyone else rose too, and Stephanie came over and gave him a hug. “Thank you for everything. You’ve made our problem go away.”
“Love shouldn’t be a problem, Stephanie.” Ian said, and hugged her back. “I would talk to each other before you two have sex though. Are you ready to be parents? Also, a pregnant pilot is usually grounded for about a year. You can call and talk to Cindy or Talena, since they are both your current flight instructors, and are pilots. Cindy chose to get pregnant, Talena didn’t. You two are going to be treated as adults from now on, so you’ve got to learn to think like us.” Ian said grinning, and winked at them.
“Thanks, Ian. Kyle said, and shook his hand, so did Elias, but Laura copied her daughter, and hugged him. Ian said goodbye, and headed back to his camper.
The next day Ian was again up with the sun. The report from the ship told him the main reactor startup was underway. The solar flare had started. Ian truly hoped that it would generate enough noise to mask the procedure, they were taking a big risk, if the enemy found out, they would all be in trouble. Ian was nervous. He paced, and worried. He made enough noise to wake the girls. They both sensed his worry, and sat him down.
Talena poured them all coffee, as Cindy took Ian’s hand. “Love, there is nothing we can do. We need to have the mains back on line, and this was the only time it could be done safely. Yes it’s a risk, but what choice do we have? You had to order this.” She tried to comfort him.
“I know, but I should be there. This is my responsibility. I didn’t stop to think before I made the decision to come down, I should have stayed on board. You two are perfectly capable of handling things here.” Ian said.
Talena said, “Ian, I love you as my mate, you are also my Captain. Yes the ship is your responsibility, but so is this. You were thinking and looking ahead when you made the decision to come down here. That’s the reason you have a first officer. Jenny is capable of handling this just like you are. She knows the risks as well as you do. Trust her, trust our people. It will work out okay.”
Ian took a deep breath, and tried to relax. He knew the girls were right. He needed to trust his people to handle things. He did trust them, he just felt if things went badly, he should be there.
“I just don’t want anything to happen to them up there, I do trust Jenny and the rest of our people. I just don’t want them to think I abandoned them, or I hid down here while the flare was going on.” Ian said.
Cindy snorted, “I don’t think they do, I think they are more worried about the enemy finding us before we can deal with them. You’re trying to fix that problem, and they know it. I’d be more worried that some of them think our pilots are too young.”
In an effort to change the subject, Ian said, “Speaking of young pilots, I told Kyle and Steph, they could call on you two for advice. I hope that was okay?” Ian said.
They both grinned, “Yeah it was, and they left a message for us to find them this morning.” Talena said.
Cindy chuckled, “I bet those two spent the night together.” Then she smiled fondly, remembering her first night with Ian and Beth.
“They may have, but I somehow don’t think it would be the first time they’ve done that.” Ian said.
Talena looked interested, and cocked her head to one side wanting Ian to elaborate.
“That’s none of our business, dear.” Ian said. Since it was his turn to fix breakfast, he rose to get started. Cindy and Talena stayed at the table, and quietly gossiped about the two new pilots. He shook his head, and started mixing the pancake batter.
Shortly after breakfast, Cindy, and Talena left to find Kyle and Steph. Ian had begun to relax a some, and get his mind off worrying about The Enemy, and the reactor start-up.
Ian went to look for Saunders, to see what he thought would be a good plan to get three hundred or so computers. Once he found him, at the arcade of course, he asked about the computers for teaching the kids. Saunders got really excited about the whole project. He consulted with Star about the technical specifications he would need, and they decided they could get what they needed through one of the companies like Dell, or Gateway. Saunders snapped his fingers, and suggested a company called DWC, they not only had custom computers, they also had everything else they would need to do the networking, as well as servers.
Ian thanked him, and left to find Elias. Saunders needed a place to live, and work. He liked the absent minded tech and wanted to make sure he was taken care of.
He found Elias near the guard shack, with 6 of his workers getting the first posts set.
“Elias, How the hell do you keep up with everything you do in one day?” Ian asked.
He shrugged, “Not to hard, really. I just know what needs to be done, and when, then simply make sure it happens.”
Ian just shook his head in amazement. “I had a thought, would it help if someone else actually did the domestic part of your job?”
Elias chuckled, “You missed that one didn’t ya? Laura handles it, has been from the beginning.”
“You never told me!” Ian playfully slapped him on the shoulder. “So, should I talk to her about new housing?”
“Well, it has been kinda hard to relay everything for you.” He chuckled. Ian snickered, and headed for Elias’ trailer.
He knocked on the door, and Laura answered it. “Ian! Back again huh? Maybe you should move in!” She joked. “Elias isn’t here, I think he said he would be over at the guard house.”
“I know, I actually just talked to him. He said I needed to talk to you.” Ian said, smiling.
“Really? I take it you finally figured out I’m handling the housing issues?” She said smiling, and led him into the kitchen.
“Jees! You guys are gonna razz me forever over this aren’t you?” Ian said.
“Well, we gotta have something to tease you over.” She said as she pulled a thick notebook out of a drawer. “Who do we need to find a place for?”
“Ensign Saunders. He’ll need a place to live, and a place to work, knowing him, he’d prefer them to be together.” Ian said.
“Hmmm, I don’t think we’ll be able to do that right away. We’re going to need more trailers for the new workers that are coming in, but until then, I have two more small trailers left. I can put him in one of those.” She said.
“I think that would be okay. However, I think I should also ask a favor of you. He’s pretty, uh, dedicated to his work. I don’t think he’ll even get furniture if someone doesn’t help him, would you consider it?” Ian asked her.
“I think we can do that, a couple of the girls and I will drag him out shopping.” She grinned.
"Well, don't kill the poor guy. We're gonna need him." Ian said, joking. "Seriously, make sure the store charges the company for his purchases; its part of the deal for him staying down here."
"No problem there, we'll probably have to order most of it anyway. We don't have a whole lot here yet." She said.
"We'll I imagine that should change pretty quickly. Once we can get the utilities ran, and the streets paved, things should start to pick up. Did Janet get a chance to talk with you before she left?" Ian asked.
"Yes she did, she told me all about the schooling program you two talked about. I have to admit, it sure sounds promising. I've never heard of it, but that's not surprising. I'll be filling the rest of the wives in on the idea later this month, at our next 'town meeting'." She said.
"Good, please let me know how that turns out. We actually need to get the ball moving on this pretty quickly. Normal schools should be starting soon. So we need to get something in place for our kids." Ian said.
She smiled, and nodded. "Andrea called this morning; she's getting on a plane today, and should be here tomorrow. Elias or I will drive in to get her tonight, and be back here after breakfast tomorrow. I'm so damn excited! Since we got involved with you our lives have gotten better. Elias gets out of bed in the morning, and actually looks forward to the day. Before we sold the company to you, there were days he just didn't want to get out of bed. He's a lot happier now, and so am I. It's like we got a fresh start on life. I know there is a lot of danger, and things might seem bleak, but this little corner sure doing good. Everyone feels like that here. I know letting our people here in on the whole story seems scary to you, but I've know most of these people for many years, they're good people. I think you'll be surprised." Laura said.
"I don't know them, and that's what scares me, but I do trust your judgment in this. I'll leave it to you and Elias to figure out how to tell them. Just remember though, if you need her, Janet will help you, as will I if you need me. You can call me directly now if you need anything." Ian said.
"That's another thing! Thank you for these." She said, indicating her watch and lenses. "I'm learning things so fast! I just wake up, and I know it! I wish I'd had this in school!" She said. I can just imagine how fast Kyle and Steph are learning."
Ian smiled. "They are great, theoretically, if we used this on our kids here, all of them could graduate from high school in about a year or two, even the young kids. That's the reason for the Talosian age of maturity being lower, their children had already learned so much by that time, that they were more responsible. Your kids will both have their diplomas in less then a month, and have the knowledge for their chosen profession in less then a year probably." Ian said.
She shook her head in amazement.
"Well, I better get going. Thanks for getting Saunders a place to live quickly. If you need anything else, just let me know." Ian said, rising.
"We will. You give those two girls a kiss for me when you see them." Laura said.
Ian smiled, "They would rather get it directly from you, I'm sure, but I'll give them one anyway."
Ian was almost back to the camper when he got a message from the ship.
"Armory to Captain." A feminine voice said.
Ian smiled and entered the camper. Once inside, he raised his wrist to his lips. "Ian here. What's up Debbie?"
"Oops! Sorry Ian, forgot you were down there." She said. It had been decided, that when communication with anyone on the surface, no titles should be used, just in case someone over heard. The comunit could be explained as a new cell phone they were testing.
"No problem, Debbie. What can I do for you today?" Ian replied.
"Well, it's our 'guests'. I have a list here of stuff they want to bring back with them. It's enough to fight a war! They want claymores, laser rifles, grenades, automatic rifles, plastic explosive. Four ground assault craft. It's enough to almost fill a shuttle!" She said.
Ian chuckled. "Looks like they chose to join us. Give them whatever they want, Debbie. Those six people will be protecting our people down here."
"Alone? Just those six people?" Debbie asked.
"They'll be alone for now; do you know who they are?" Ian asked her.
"No, I've actually not met them yet." Debbie said.
"They are an ex navy seal team. John Harris recommended them." Ian said.
"Ahhh, that explains things better. I'll get started on getting this stuff loaded. The flare should be done late tonight. So they'll be leaving shortly after that I would think." She said.
"Good, thanks Debbie." Ian said.
"Talk to ya later." She said.
Talking to Debbie got Ian thinking about how things were going on the ship. His watch said enough time had passed that the reactor start up should be just about complete.
"Ian to Jenny Williams.” He said.
“Jenny here, what’s up sweetheart?”
“I was just wondering how the start up went?” Ian said.
“It’s actually still underway, however, we are fully on line. All systems are functioning at least as well as they did before the mains went down.” She said.
“So everthing up there is okay?” He asked
“Sure is lover, except you’re not here. When are you coming home? I know a couple of women who miss their husband.” She said.
Ian smiled, “In a couple of more days hon. I’ve just a couple of thing left to do down here. Did you meet the new security team?”
“Yes, I did. They’re a strange bunch, I’ll give you that. But they seem to know what they’re doing.” She told him.
“I got that impression too, I think they’ll do a good job down here.” Ian said.
“Well, you give those two girls a kiss for me, and get back up here soon. Beth and I are gonna show you how much we missed you.” She said.
“I missed you too, hon. Give Beth a kiss for me, and I’ll see you in a couple of days.” Ian said.
“I will, sweetheart. Take care of yourself.” She said.
“I will, hon. See you later.” Ian said
“Bye”
Ian stopped by the arcade to see how things were going. The girls had the kids organized into two squadrons of ten flights. Ian took a chair, and watched some of them fly. They were improving, slowly. Ian watched for awhile, and went back to the trailer.
The contract lawyer called to tell Ian that the new contracts had been signed, and the workers would start showing up about Wednesday of next week; Ian made a note to talk to Laura about more trailers and facilities.
He finished up everything he could think of, and, since the new security team as well as the new doctor would be arriving tomorrow, Ian decided that maybe, he could return to the ship tomorrow night.
The Girls came back to the camper for supper, and he told them about leaving the next night. They grumbled and moan about it, but accepted it. They did the dishes, and crawled into bed.
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