Space Quest

by

MichelleA

  

CHAPTER FOUR

  

It was now over a year and a half since I had become female. I could take care of my own hygienic needs. Even recognize when my visitor would arrive. I could dress myself with a reasonable chance of not upsetting Sally. I was able to apply make-up once with only a minor smudge or two. The only time Sally seemed to want to take over was the evening make-up when she wanted me to 'meet' someone. I could even go shopping on my own and find something that wasn't too 'Old Maid' for Sally or too 'Risqué' for me. OK, so I enjoyed shopping sometimes.

Just when I thought that I was doing everything perfectly, Sally hit me with another surprise.

"Marcia, so far you have done very well." Sally began. "However, I've reached the limit that I can help you." Hooray, I silently cheered prematurely. "I've decided that you need some professional help now. Lady Judith will arrive tomorrow. Your training will begin after she has assessed your needs."

I didn't think that comments were necessary or would be appreciated. They would definitely not be Lady Like or printable. My ONLY consolation was that Sally didn't know that she would have to toe the line if I had to. As the saying goes: Simple minds and simple pleasures. Oh how simple I was too.

The next day I opened the door to a stern visaged woman. She was wearing a long floor length black sequined gown. It hugged her figure, letting you know that she was all woman. Her extreme posture also showed that she was wearing a corset. This was Lady Judith.

"You must be Lady Judith." I said as soon as I saw her. "I'm Marcia Owens."

"Yes, I am." She acknowledged. "Pleased to meet you. I expected to meet a Sally Jenkins."

"Yes, she's here." I said. "Come in and have a seat in the Parlor. Do you have any baggage that needs to be picked up?"

"Yes, several trunks in fact." She responded. They are at the hotel ready for pick-up whenever I'm ready for them."

"If you'd like, I can send for them in a few minutes." I suggested.

"That would be most satisfactory." She responded.

"My Dear Sister informed me yesterday that you would be arriving." I informed Lady Judith." Besides myself, who else if anyone will be your student and for how long?"

"My contract is for one year, renewable if both parties agree." She told me. "I believe that it lists 27 girls ages 2 through 8 years to be trained as appropriate to their age."

"Yes, I thought so." I commented. "Would you be amenable to the addition of one more adult for an appropriate fee? After all I will be the one actually paying for your services."

"Actually the standard contract covers that contingency." She replied. "I can easily handle several Ladies. I need separate evaluation times for each individual. The children will be no problem. Who is the other Lady you have in mind?"

"My Dear Sweet Sister." I answered. "She doesn't know it and I want to wait until the last minute to tell her. What she considers is good for this goose will cook her goose at the same time. If you want to wait here, I will have your luggage picked-up and find Sally to introduce you."

"I'll be fine thank you." She replied. "I'll let you tell her when I'm finished with my initial evaluation of you."

I had one of the staff make arrangements to pick up the luggage while others made sure that a room was ready for our guest. Another went in search of Sally while I returned to stay with Lady Judith. A few minutes after I returned to the parlor Sally showed up.

"Welcome to our home Lady Judith, I'm Sally Jenkins." Sally introduced herself.

We chatted for a while and then gave Lady Judith a tour of the house. Shortly after we finished her baggage arrived and she was left with help to unpack and settle into her room. Throughout the tour and later during dinner I noticed her studying my actions. I could tell that she also gave a little attention to watching Sally.

The next morning Lady Judith awakened me at 5 AM. My evaluation was just beginning. I was instructed to bath and prepare myself as if I was going to an important meeting.

Finished with my morning routine, I presented myself to Lady Judith with a sinking feeling that this would be just like Boot Camp, Officer Candidate School and Knife and Fork School combined. I would soon be proved correct.

As expected everything from make-up to poise needed improvement: uneven application of base coat, not enough blush, too much eye shadow and all the colors wrong. My posture was poor and I clomped around like a farmer. My clothes weren't fresh enough and lacked sufficient style and color coordination. Sally was going to be upset with that comment since she had picked this particular outfit for me.

Breakfast…was interesting. Many corrections were made in our table manners. Although Lady Judith concentrated on me, she had enough time to correct everyone. I could tell that Sally was trying not to repeat the same mistakes that I had just been corrected for. The girls received minor corrections in a gentle manner.

The rest of the morning was spent walking, sitting, standing and other movements. I was required to changes clothes several times with an appropriate change in make-up. Each time I was evaluated on type style and appropriateness. Lunch was similar to breakfast with some noted improvements and compliments to all. I might add that the staff was not left untouched by the corrective comments made.

The afternoon was much the same with additional simulations of various social occasions and the appropriate look for each. The end result was an unsatisfactory wardrobe, unsuitable make-up and an excellent first day if I had been a lumberjack. Lady Judith stated that my poise and manners were above her expectations. She remarked, however, that I seemed to behave and make the same types of mistakes she observed from former Patrol Officers. The funny thing was that the women Officers she had trained had made a different set of errors.

The next day started the same. After breakfast followed an hour of make-up training. I was then informed that it was time to evaluate my physical fitness. After all a fit and limber body was a better canvas to portray a picture of elegance.

By lunch I was as strong as a limp dishrag. The afternoon was reserved for a shopping trip to see what was available in this 'backwater town'. Five hours of shopping netted only one marginally acceptable gown. Dinner was a nightmare for me. I could barely stay awake. Between the early morning exercises and the whirlwind-shopping spree, I was dead. I still had to go through the nightly routine of make-up removal, clean up and moisturizing.

The next morning was the same as the previous one. Prepare for the day and critique. Breakfast with pointers on table etiquette. A morning of exercise with some rudimentary dance incorporated. After lunch, we went to meet with several seamstresses. We hired one to make clothes for the girls. Another was selected to make my clothes and a third for Sally. I was surprised when we had a meeting with yet another. I was again subjected to the multiple measurements for proper fit as I had with the seamstress hired to make my clothes. I soon learned that this woman made women's undergarments exclusively. Specifically corsets. Groan. What had I gotten myself into? Or was it, 'What would I be getting myself into?'

To the outside world, Lady Judith was my companion and confidant. They never knew the evil ogre residing inside that sweet courteous continence. She could command instant obedience where we mere humans required whips and chains to accomplish the same results.

Mornings had fallen into a routine. Boot camp had been a breeze compared to this. At least in boot camp you knew when it would end or at least let up. Then came a personal appearance inspection and with corrections of any flaws before we could sit down for breakfast. Dance lessons from ballet to classical. Stretching exercises and then on to the torture chamber.

The frustrating part was that Lady Judith performed every move I did without so much as a drop of 'dew' on her brow. All I needed was a bar of soap to wash up I was so wet. What made it all bearable were the girls. Many of the girls would join us and try to follow our routine. Of course they couldn't keep up, but their determination was like the carrot on a stick. If they could attempt the impossible who was I to not try my best?

With two weeks behind me, I could see my own improvement. There were fewer appearance and table etiquette mistakes. The exercise was merely tiring and not exhausting. During this time, Sally was amused at my torture, but little did she know. Two things happened that week: First, Sally was informed that she would start to participate in the training OR ELSE, and Second, the corsets arrived.

I couldn't believe the number of different corsets. There were day corsets, night corsets, sleeping corsets and even several exercise corsets. The girls even had a few. Theirs was really more of a wide elastic bellyband that they would wear when all dressed up to keep them in mind of proper posture. If they really tried, they could bend at the waist but it took a little extra effort to do so.

Lady Judith explained that the corset was to be used primarily as a device for proper posture. The decision to use it to train my waist was entirely up to me. She, however, never ruled out the tightening of the laces to fit a certain gown. Nor did she discount the desire to make a statement to the other ladies or to impress certain male individuals.

Sally was just starting the observation phase although Judith had some idea already about her level of performance. In comparison to me, Sally had her plus' and minus'. She had a lifetime of basic feminine charm and manners. All her life she had been exposed to the clothes and make-up. All she needed there was refining her currant skills. Fitness would be her biggest challenge. She had always been physically active. However, she had never joined any organized physical training or athletics. Naturally slim and trim, she lacked stamina for extensive exercise. In etiquette, she had learned from our mother the basics. I on the other hand had received training in etiquette as part of my military Officer training. It went much further than what our mother had covered but was presented from the male perspective. Overall we both presented a mixed bag of good and bad experience.

Note: I thought that I was being clever and that only Marcia needed Lady Judith's attention. The daily reminders and admonitions I basically expected for Marcia's benefit. It was a shock to learn that I now had to participate. The first day was torture. I couldn't imagine living through the exercise portion. I was ready to strangle her if I had the strength left afterwards. Then to my surprise Marcia told me to watch the girls. If they could attempt these tortures then so could I. Marcia was right. Watching them try with all their hearts to follow the exercise was delightful. I was so captivated by their attempts that I completely forgot my own pains. Before I knew it the exercise set was finished.

As I watched Sally doing her first day of exercise, I knew that it was pure torture to her as it had been to me. The daggers that she was staring at me were no help. All the girls seemed to be trying to exercise with us on this day. A few of the nannies were also attempting to work out. During the first break, I took Sally aside and suggested that she watch the girls try to follow the exercise routine. I explained that it was through them that I survived as long as I had. During the rest of the routines Sally seemed to be more at ease.

I was released for the rest of the day so that Sally and Lady Judith could do some shopping and see one of the seamstresses. I took this opportunity to check in with my businesses.

The construction business was operating at full capacity. They had a backlog of projects to either clean up or build. The backlog was a result of insufficient skilled manpower. Most of the lack was the absence of men on the planet. The other cause of course was the men I had sent to Sigma 7. My company could make most of the metal fitting and fixtures that the Station needed but the full sheet metal walls were beyond their currant capacity.

I had already ordered several panels but they were backlogged for two more months. I actually had to find a small company that didn't supply the makers of the space stations. I had to increase the size of my order after my lead Hull Technician Arnold Riggs recommended replacement of three additional panels. He admitted that he couldn't prove that they were damage or could fail, but their proximity to the major damage areas made them suspect.

At the communications company, they were preparing to go to full production next month. Captain Manley's modified ship was a hit no matter where he was. Orders were coming in for the various system modifications and upgrades. As soon as the Station was fully operational we would have to hire more technicians as installation crews. As it was we had already received inquiries from the Patrol for cost estimates to upgrade several older Patrol ships assigned rescue operations. They were generally lightly armed with an extensive electronics array needed for search operations.

Jacob my banker was in a pleasant mood. The economy was on the rebound. He had seen the bank on the brink of closing its doors with massive liabilities; return not only to solvency but also to return to its former position as the leading bank on the planet. Although there were still some accounts in the red most of those were looking better. No need for any foreclosures in the foreseeable future. True a lot of the changes could be based solely on my taking over many of the lands that were scheduled for foreclosure.

The insurance industry was in chaos. Two of the five companies serving the planet had been totally destroyed with all their records. Many of the surviving relatives had no records of insurance to file claims. The insurance companies fearing total bankruptcy were denying all claims. They were citing anything from war clauses to natural disasters as justification. They all had multiple class action suits in the courts. They were fighting a delaying action in court to delay the inevitable.

For my last stop, I went to the communications center at the spaceport. I placed a call to my Foreman and lead Hull Tech. The communications tech on watch contacted the Station requesting the foreman. After a brief wait he responded.

"Arnie this is Marcia, do you have an update for me?" I asked over the radio.

"Hi Boss." He responded. "Everything is on schedule as we discussed last time. I'll feel better when those wall panels arrive. We're gradually cutting out that old power unit. Its tough going in a suit trying to disconnect connections that are sometimes part of mangled paneling. We're getting there slowly with one exception."

"What is that exception?" I asked.

"I don't know all the details myself." He answered. "It's a wiring problem that has Max bugged. I'll let him tell you about it."

"Hi Boss." Max greeted me. "I'm stumped Boss. Three power input lines have shorts on them. The lines have been visually checked for burns, chaffing and any other visible problem. These three cables go from the power room through seventeen pressure seal bulkheads. Resistance checks verified that those power lines are shorted. Until they are repaired the master power generator can't be turned on. Since this is low AC frequency 400 Hertz, then a Frequency Domain Reflectometer (FDR) won't work. Nor will a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) work since both require coaxial cable to work Max explained."

"Max." I said. "You can use a TDR but you have to be aware of what you are reading."

"I've tried this before." Responded Max. "The 30 foot wire I was reading came back as if it were 87 feet."

"Yes Max that's about right." I answered. "First read two good lines that run parallel to the bad wires. Log the apparent indications when both are shorted at the other end. When you've done that shoot the three bad wires using one of the original wires as your ground lead. Record the discontinuity. If the discontinuity is 30 feet down the apparent length of 100 feet then look for the short 3/10's the length of the wire. If the wire is actually 40 feet long then the short should be around 12 feet down the wire. It's not exact but it will get you close."

"I hope you're right Boss." He replied. "If you're not then we may have to rip out the entire wiring assembly and all the bulkheads to boot. I'll retire before that can be finished."

"Don't worry about it until it happens." Marcia out.

I finished up there and headed home. At dinner, Sally looked about as aware as I had that first day. After dinner, I helped her to her room and in the necessary bedtime preparations. By the time I was done with Sally, it was time to start with the girls.

Tomorrow was Lisa's second birthday. The plans were all set.

That night I soaked until the water became to cool to be comfortable and then went to bed.

Lady Judith awoke me bright and early. In her hand was one of the exercise corsets. After I finished my bathroom chores, she laced me in. The laces were snug but not overly tight. I could bend a little if I tried. Then I thought that this wasn't going to be that bad.

Breakfast was light, at least for me. After a suitable rest we began our routine. By the time we finished our first light routine I was already huffing and puffing. With the corset on I just couldn't seem to catch my breath. Sally started to be amused by my struggles until I reminded her that she was next. Lady Judith explained that we tend to expand through our stomachs and fail to expand our chest cavity. The corset forces us to expand our chest cavity and become more efficient. We lost it when she added "and besides the guys love to watch our heaving chests."

The following sets of exercises, Lady Judith started out slower and gradually increased the tempo. By the end of the exercise period, I was merely out of breath and not totally oxygen starved. Lady Judith taught me that pacing myself through the exercises and proper breath control was essential.

After a week of this torture, I was finally able to breathe at the end of the final set. That was the day that Sally's corsets arrived. As she began her breathless struggles, the next day, Lady Judith upped the ante on me. Now I was required to sing as we exercised. I could never sing before this happened, how could she think I would be any better now? Then I remembered that they did this to recruits also in order to help expand their lung capacity during training.

Lady Judith would alternate outings with Sally and I. She did this so that she could give us individual attention and we could also conduct our own business.

During this time I received a message that the TDR test had shown approximately where the shorts were. The shorts were found at the connector end where it is normally attached to the power generator. The reason for the difficulty in locating the fault was how it was shorted. When the blast occurred, a hair thin sliver of metal was driven between wires and then through the insulation. The insulation closed over the puncture and was only visible under a magnifying glass. The Station was progressing ahead of schedule so far.

Sally's recruiting efforts continued to bring in more manpower both to the Station and the other companies. Although most of the influx of people was a direct result of Sally's recruiting, there were some that came after hearing of the opportunities here. A few brought families but for the most part they were singles. A few budding romances were making their appearance.

The Patrol people had also brought their own emergency generator that they attached to the outside of the pirate ship. This allowed them to have their own living space when they worked without having to interfere with my workers. This would allow us to use the second generator to power up different electronics systems as they were installed.

*********

The Manley's arrived just in time for Lisa's birthday. It was hard to believe that she was already two years old. I was already thinking that soon she would start school. I had to tell myself to slow down; she would grow up fast enough, without me pushing it.

They had again brought most of the family, at least the female portion. They arrived in one of the newly purchased ships. Captain Manley was giving it a test run delivering parts and making a pleasure trip out of it. It was old home week. Everyone bringing everyone else up to date on what was happening.

While we were reacquainting ourselves, all the electronics systems were being updated in the new ship. The cargos off load and on load would take just a few hours. The systems upgrade would take about twelve hours longer and then another couple hours for system calibration and operational tests. Although the operational tests could be performed in transit, if there were a problem then it might not be resolved short of a return visit.

Momma Gina and the rest of the women disappeared with the girls shortly after they arrived. I thought I heard Sally say, "Marcia we're going shopp…" before the door closed. I spent the day with Captain Manley and his son-in-law James. Since James hadn't been here before he had never seen my changed appearance.

"Marcia forgive me for asking," said James, "but how has your change affected you?"

"Physically, I was 5'11", sandy brown hair, 160 lbs medium build and ruddy complexion." I began. "I'm now 5'9', raven black hair, 140 lbs medium build with a tanned complexion. However when they found me I weighed no more than 110 lbs soaking wet. I am genetically 100% female with all that entails. Mentally, it's a daily fight. Marcia is in control but Mark will always be around to some extent."

"Captain, how is the new ship?" I asked eagerly.

"Well, Marcia." He answered with a smile. "I think it's one of the best I've seen. It's been well maintained, with little of the normal wear you see in a ship of that age. In fact if you just took the wear as a guide, you would swear that it was 5 years younger than it is."

"Was it that good a deal?" I asked.

"The previous owner and I started out as competitors when we were young." Captain Manley explained. "We bid against each other and occasionally joined together to fight the big shippers. When he died, his family had little choice but to liquidate the business. On the auction block his ship would have gone for little more than scrap. I couldn't afford to bid until you made your offer. I was able to get a good ship at a bargain price and still not strip the family of their lifesavings. With the new communications package, it's almost in mint condition."

"Shippers of cargo to the Omega sector are willing to pay a premium for rapid and on time delivery of their goods." Explained James. "The Omega Sector shippers are mainly local area shippers. Most of the Omega Sector shipments are raw material. I foresee that a pattern will develop. We will take high priority shipments through here to the Omega Sector. From there we will have bulk cargos to the surrounding area and work our way back to Dupres 7. We will then pick up our high priority cargos again and repeat. The profit in those runs was always in the return trip."

"So far everywhere we've demonstrated your communications upgrade, we've had an enthusiastic welcome." Added Captain Manley. "That was even before we let them know how cheap the installation is and how quickly it can be done."

"I have two crews trained for installation." I commented. "There is also a full load of kits ready for delivery."

"Marcus will be here in about a week to take them back to Dupres 7." Said Captain Manley. We have facilities lined up for their use until the Station here is ready for use. Marcus will bring in the last parts order. He will also bring a stabilization generator that we were able to find. Three years ago the station at Minos ordered one to replace what they thought was a bad one. They managed to locate the problem and fix it before this generator was delivered. The station didn't want it and the manufacturer didn't want it back and stuck a friend with the shipping. When I asked him about it recently, he just wanted to get rid of it. I made a deal to trade it for a free communications upgrade for his ship. I think it is worth it but if you don't think so we can stop the deal since I made it contingent upon your approval."

"No, Captain." I hurriedly said. "I think it is an excellent deal. I'm not sure what condition those generators are in. With one good one and two for parts, I'm sure that we can get a second one running. At most we would just need some parts to finish the job."

"That reminds me, Marcia," said the Captain, "at your request, I posted prices in effect for all consumables here at Mander III. Basically it is eight times the going rate anywhere else. That should limit any further attempts to use the Station without permission. I also put a time of six months or until further notice. That should give us plenty of time to prepare."

"Good I was going to ask you about that." I commented.

"How is the Station coming along?" Asked Captain Manley. "I can see some changes but that is only visually."

"So far we're ahead of schedule." I replied. "The hull is pressurized in all areas except the Power Generator room. That room is still open to space. We have hydroponics up and starting to stabilize the air. The oxygen generating plant is repaired and working. I have the work crew living on the Station 5 days a week. The storage areas are full of spare parts and equipment. The mass storage tanks are full. They are starting to test all the wiring and preparing to install the upgraded electronics systems. With the new stabilization generator on its way, we can replace the one that is obviously damaged and have parts left for repairs. The major obstacle is the power generator. They are still trying to remove the old one. Its hard and dangerous work in a suit. They have to avoid snagging their suits while trying to remove all that wreckage. Safety is my only concern. 'On time' means nothing if I lose or injure a man in the process."

"I can agree with that." Commented Captain Manley. "Nothing is worth an injured man."

"It looks like you could use the Station to do all the shipboard modifications here already." Said James. "I have everything except power James. Until that Power Generator comes on line, I won't have enough to run the Station on except minimal services. I won't compromise on their safety for that."

"Marcia I know that you gave a one year time period for our exclusive use of the facilities here." Began Captain Manley. "I think that you should start bringing ships here for modifications as soon as the Station is ready to handle them."

"I said I would give you exclusive access and I will." I asserted.

"Marcia, we will soon have contracts for goods delivery for the next several years thanks to your Station." Gloated Captain Manley. "In fact, we may soon have to buy another ship to keep up with deliveries. I'm still leaving one ship on a loose schedule just in case you need a special delivery."

The next several hours were spent discussing schedules and deliveries, contracts and options. All the boring details that make a business work.

The women arrived before dinner in a flurry of activity and laughter. I wondered what I had missed.

Dinner was a gabfest. Momma Gina thought that I looked much better than the last time she was here. I think Momma would think another 40-50 lbs to be more to her liking. The conversation had gotten around to men and boyfriends when Sally blushed and caught Momma Gina's attention. Most of the rest of the time was trying to drag all the details out of Sally. Luckily I was spared from all the attention for now.

That night and all morning we played and watched the girls until it was time for the Manley's to leave. The departing hugs and kisses seemed to take forever until I noticed that several of the girls getting back in line for thirds and fourths.

With the Manley's gone; it was back to the torture chamber. The exercises were becoming bearable for both Sally and I. Lady Judith must have seen a smug expression on our faces. We were soon doing the same exercises but now we were in heels and long gowns. Groan. She then started on our walk. You've seen the book on the head routine. That only lasted until we could reasonably keep it on our head. She rapidly progressed to teacups half-filled to completely full of water. Then on to small bowls. Then we progressed to climbing stairs and finally various dances. It was a long time before I stayed dry.

The next month was mainly occupied with Lady Judith. William Manley came through with the second of their original ships for modification. He had the Stabilization Generator and a cargo for the Omega Sector so that he couldn't stay long.

About a week and a half after William Manley left, I received a call forwarded from the Station. It seems that some private yacht had docked on the Station. The owner wouldn't leave and demanded to be restocked with provisions. Although the Lead Hull Tech informed the owner that he was trespassing and was obligated to leave, the owner refused to comply. Stating, "I know that no space station is ever privately owned. It is considered public property everywhere." Refusing to move his ship, he then bullied the Patrol pilot to provide him transportation down to the surface."

After a quick call to the port, I learned that the stranger had gotten transportation to the Excalibur Hotel. I was soon on my way there to confront him accompanied by Lady Judith.

When we inquired at the front desk, we were directed to the Penthouse Suite. My knock was answered by a mid 20's something blond haired jock. He was wearing expensive but casual clothes. It was obvious that he had his own tailor.

"My name is Marcia Owens." I began with out any other introduction. "You have parked your ship on my Station. I want it removed immediately."

"Welcome to my suite. Marcia." He replied with a smile. "My name is Edward Mikesell the III. Space Stations are leased by the manufacturer and considered public property for all intents and purposes. Would you care to have dinner with me? You and your companion of course."

"You are wrong on several counts, Sir." I said through clenched teeth. "This station is private property and I am the owner. You will remove it or else."

Lady Judith placed a hand on my elbow and squeezed to remind me that I was a lady and to act that way. Damn that hurt.

"No I don't think I will move it." He stated arrogantly. "Do what you will, I still say it is public property."

That being said, I walked to the phone. "Desk. Connect me to the Space Port communications desk. Who is this please? Max? This is Marcia Owens. Would you connect me to Mr. Riggs on the Station? Thank You, Max. Arnie? This is Marcia. The owner refuses to move his ship. Weld it in place. You will only release it on my word. Out."

"Let's go Judith." I said spinning on my heels.

We left before he could think of anything to say. On the way home I received a lecture from Lady Judith about proper décor during unpleasant situations. She did compliment me on my recovery, however.

It was an uncomfortable ride home. I didn't think that my period should be starting but it felt like it had. When I returned home I checked and found no spotting but it was damp. When I asked Sally about it later, she said that there were several possibilities but couldn't be sure.

By the time I got home, there was a call from the port communications office. I was requested to call the Station as soon as I could. I immediately requested Max to place the call for me. As soon as the call was through I was called to the phone.

"Arnie? This is Marcia." I began. "What seems to be the problem?

"We started doing as you ordered," he explained, "when this big guy came out bellowing like a bull. Telling us to get away from his ship. We invited him into the control room to be able to discuss it in person instead of over the radio in suits. Several of the boys and I had to explain to him that his attitude needed adjustment. When he wakes up in the supply room we'll see if he needs more explanation."

"Did you explain that the ship was on private property and had been ordered to be moved?" I asked.

"Yes we tried to explain that to him." Replied Arnie.

"We tried to explain it to him for about 15 minutes before he swung at Joe." Arnie said. "That was when we decided that he should think things over in the supply room for a while."

"If you want, I can have the Patrol shuttle come and pick him up." I offered.

"As long as he minds his manners when he wakes up, he'll be fine where he is." Responded Arnie. "By the way, the yacht has been secured as you requested."

Two hours later, I received a call from the Commanding Officer of the Base. "Marcia, this is Commander Copeley." He began.

"Oh, Hi Ben, what do I owe to the honor of this call?" I asked sweetly.

"I've received a complaint from a Mister Edward Mikesell." He started to explain. He has filed a complaint against you and your people citing the abusiveness of your actions. Now he says that he cannot contact his pilot on his yacht."

"Is that so?" I questioned. "Has he mentioned that he was trespassing on my Station? Has he mentioned that he was requested to remove his yacht and his person from my station both by my Station personnel and by myself personally? Did he also inform you that he refused to comply with my reasonable request? Since he refused to remove his yacht, I decided to make it a permanent piece of my Station. I had Mr. Riggs weld it to the Station. As for his pilot, he is confined on the Station until he calms down or I decide to file charges for assault against my men. If my men have any further problems with Mr. Mikesell's pilot, I will request a shuttle ride for him to your brig. After filing formal charges that is. Anything else Ben?" I could hear some stifled sounds coming from Ben. I wasn't sure if they were chuckles or something else.

"No Marcia, I think I have my answer for Mr. Mikesell." He responded. He won't like it but he's a big boy now."

At dinner when Lady Judith recounted the encounter with Mr. Mikesell, Sally had a knowing smile that I didn't like. Not one bit at all did I like that smile. I knew that I would hear about it later.

That night the twins Marion and Melissa were very clingy. I awoke at 1 am with two very hot bodies pressed against me. I called the night nurses and had them check out the girls. They both had fevers of over 104 Degrees F (40 C). While the two girls were feed medicine, I checked the other girls. April and June both had low-grade fevers. I moved April and June to my bedroom and tucked them all in. I'm beginning to understand why my mother always put a blanket on us kids when SHE was cold. The fevers were gone in the morning but I knew that they would return tonight.

The first thing in the morning I called Sam at his office and explained what had happened both on the Station and my meeting with Mr. Mikesell. He said that he would look into the matter but thought that I was in the right on both counts. He would also check with Arnold Riggs to verify his story and the condition of the pilot. I said goodbye and that I would check with him later.

At noon, Sally informed me that Orville P. Wottles called representing Mr. Mikesell. Sally just told him to contact Sam. Wottles was the sleaze bag that Sylvia had representing her.

That night four more of the girls started fevers. Marion and Melissa were so congested that I had to hold them on my shoulder so that they could breathe and get some sleep. I just stacked pillows behind me so that I could sit upright all night and hold them. Do you think that that was enough of an excuse to skip the daily routine with Lady Judith? You're right, it didn't.

Shortly after Sally began to wear her corsets, we began to help each other with the laces. I finally discovered that Sally was slowly tightening the laces on mine. Since turnabout is fair play, I returned the favor. I was determined that I wouldn't be the one to complain about how tight the laces were. Apparently neither was Sally.

The next week I was busy taking care of the girls. Every one of them except Grace became sick. I was up most nights, with one or more of the girls, and Lady Judith kept me busy during the day.

Sam kept us informed about the doings of Mr. Wattles. Every motion or suit he tried to bring was rapidly dismissed. Not filed in the proper court, insufficient evidence, inconsistent testimony, or no jurisdiction. Since the Station had not yet been registered with any entity on the surface, it did not exist as far as the court was concerned. To the same extent as Mr. Mikesell's ship did not exist except as private property out of their jurisdiction. They referred it to the Patrol for consideration. Mr. Riggs pilot remained belligerent and was turned over to the Patrol to be removed from private property. No charges were filed but the Patrol was notified that charges were under consideration.

The Base's legal Officer turned down any claim stating that the Station was private property and out of the Patrol's jurisdiction except where it affected navigation in space. The Station had been inspected by the Patrol and found that it complied with all regulation pertinent to its currant use and condition. Any trespassing was covered by currant space law allowing use of force, including deadly force if necessary, to remove any trespasser.

Any item left by any trespasser shall be considered abandoned if not removed within 48 hours:

a) Of delivery of the formal request for removal

Or

b) The passage of 24 hours if no owner can be found.

The owner of the property in question must request permission to retrieve his property subject to the levy of a fine for trespassing. The 48 hours time period is suspended during the negotiations for a time convenient to the violated property owner, not to exceed 24 hours.

By the end of a week, the girls were getting better but I was now getting sick. Sally shoved me into bed and kept me there for two days. I was running fevers of up to 104 Degrees F (40 C). for most of that time. Unknown to me, Sally had received several calls from Mr. Mikesell and had made some arrangements for our meeting when I was better.

Note: Ed Mikesell had called several times trying to convince Marcia to release his ship. From Lady Judith's description of the original confrontation and the comment Marcia made when she returned, I knew that Marcia was excited by his physical presence. This was the first time that Marcia had shown any reaction to a man other than annoyance. For this reason, I had to get them together in the future. Since Marcia was sick, I had time to plan my campaign with maybe a little help.

She told me about the arranged meeting while I was recovering. She had determined that I was well enough to be told but still weak enough that I couldn't catch her. The meeting was to be in three days. The subject of conversation was to be the release of his yacht. I personally didn't care that he had landed on the Station. However, when his ego and his mouth got involved he was in for trouble with me. His attitude at the meeting would determine how I reacted to his request.

Sally offered to help me get ready. I should have been suspicious. After I showered and powdered she tightened my corset. She had selected a gown that I didn't remember having. The gown was a snug fit and I had the passing thought "was I gaining weight?" I noticed more cleavage than I normally showed, but the dress was tight. After all, my breast had become larger from breast-feeding the girls all that time. Sally also insisted that she do my makeup since I was not used to doing nighttime makeup. Oh naïve little one that I am.

The business meeting was to be held at the Excalibur Hotel. It was to be a dinner meeting. 'Date' said my conscience. No this was a business meeting. Mr. Mikesell just wants his yacht back. 'Date' screamed my conscience, which I quickly silenced. Then why did I add a pad while dressing?

Mr. Mikesell met me at the entrance to the Hotel and we then went to the dining room. The Excalibur Hotel had the best dinner and live entertainment in the city. The Maitre de met us as we entered and personally escorted us to a quiet table.

The entrée was excellent. The main course was perfect. Over a sinfully rich chocolate mousse he apologized for his arrogant behavior. He naturally didn't know that the Station was in fact privately owned. He begged me to forgive him and his boorish behavior and the over zealous actions of his pilot who was only trying to protect the property of his employer. As a sign of my forgiveness, he asked if I would dance with him. He was the perfect gentleman. His hands stayed where they should during the dance. He made me feel like I was floating he guided me so skillfully. I was glad I added that pad at the last minute. At the stroke of midnight, he gave me a spin and brought me back bent me over and gave me a passionate kiss that I started to return. That was when he grabbed my bottom and squeezed. I was so surprised that I pushed him away and my self-defense training took over. When he appeared to reach for me I stiff-armed the palm of my hand into his nose with a satisfying crunch. I stormed away grabbing a napkin along the way to wipe off the blood.

I rode a taxi home. Stormed into the house slamming doors and undressed without taking off my makeup. I then proceeded to cry myself to sleep. The troubling part was that I didn't know why I was crying. Was I crying because I thought that I had been attacked or because I had enjoyed myself? Which one would be worse? For that matter which one did I want it to be?

I was in a foul mood the next day. I would brighten up when around the girls but would cloud up whenever Sally approached. After all she had helped set up the 'Date' with Mr. Edward Mikesell the III. That was the betrayal, treason within my own house.

Sally would try to talk to me to find out what happened but I would just glare at her. I know that after a few days she had talked to Mr. Stud Mikesell because she stopped asking. The only thing I did was to call the Port communications office with word for Mr. Stud to clear off my Station. I also talked to Arnie to clear the yacht away from the Station and to make sure that it never docks there again.

Note: When Marcia came home early, I knew something was wrong. The cold icy stare I received the next morning told me that something had gone terribly wrong, but I didn't have a clue. Marcia wouldn't talk to me nor did she confide in Lady Judith. After a couple days I contacted Mister Mikesell to hear his side of the incident. He wanted to desperately apologize to Marcia but she would not even acknowledge his calls. I felt helpless and at fault for setting up the date to start with. Was I right to do it? I just didn't know for sure.

 

To compensate for my feelings I tore into my other work. The crew on Sigma 7 had uncovered three banks and had stabilized the surrounding buildings. I sent a message to Winslow and Hayes on Ringold 5 to have them send an examiner to search the banks and determine where its assets were and what still remained of value. Loans to the local populace, property leans and local business investments would naturally have no value. However, there might be off planet loans, investments and collateral that may turn up.

With the incident with the yacht, the cat was out of the bag about the Station. Now people could see the potential of a Station here. People began to realize that new faces had been appearing but hadn't bothered to wonder why. Ten more construction workers had shown up in the last month from Sally's search. In addition, several new recruits for the Station showed up for interviews. Most were recent departures from the Patrol but a few were not and had passed our screening.

Construction was holding steady both building and clearing the remains of the attack. I had them clearing the lots that I had purchased from the bank. Family housing was still in a depressed state but I could see the interest starting to rise.

If he'd just not grabbed me!

The installation crew on Dupres 7 was busy but longed for the Station to open so that they could come home. Momma Gina's cooking was making them fat anyway. Marcus arrived with the Stabilization Generator but could only stay long enough to off load and re-supply his ship.

The girls were starting to reflect my mood. I would hear sounds of happiness and play. When I went to investigate they would stop and stare at me. I was starting to cry myself to sleep every night now but still not sure why.

Melissa ever the outgoing ones of the girls climbed into my bed one night and wiped the tears out of my eyes and said. "Don't cry Momma. We love you." All I could do was hug her. We fell asleep that way.

My mood improved from then on but I wasn't exactly cheerful. I could smile and play with the girls without being a wet blanket but I was still upset with Sally. As I thought back on the incident, I think that Lady Judith was in on the scheme.

Time passed as if I were in Limbo. Just surviving day-to-day. Until my birthday arrived that is.

************

My birthday dawned to a cloudy stormy day. A bed full of squirmy girls all trying to hug me at the same time awaked me. I made the mistake of starting a tickle fest. I didn't have my corset on and the bigger girls were too numerous to stop with only two hands. I quickly surrendered but they weren't ready to take prisoners yet.

I shooed everyone out so that I could shower and get dressed. By the time I was ready it was mid-morning. On the bed stand was a special delivery box with no message on the outside. I opened the box to reveal three red roses and a single white rose. Inside was a small card with the message. "Forgive Me. Ed."

I spent the rest of the day trying not to think of what was in that box in my room. I especially tried not to think about how I felt about receiving those roses and what they implied. (Don't think about an elephant; whatever you do don't think about an elephant.) I was trying not to think about those roses and Ed.

When I returned to my room later I found the roses in a vase on my bed stand. I had no indication about who put them there. Did Sally, Lady Judith or just one of the maids do it on her own? Do I say anything to anybody? What if I thank the wrong person?

When no one was around, I called and contacted the Station. I tried to be discrete and see if Ed's yacht had been in the area. They hadn't seen it since it left several weeks ago.

I was feeling better, smiled more and less moody. However, I hadn't made up with Sally yet. I didn't know how. I was still upset with her trickery. I know she meant well but it added to the overall feeling of betrayal when Ed Mikesell crossed the line. She hadn't said anything about it, so I didn't even know if she had any remorse over what she had done.

Finally Judith had enough of the silent treatment that we were giving each other. After our morning exercise one morning she grabbed us both and hauled us to the den, pushed us in and shut the door saying. "Don't come out until it's all settled."

We stared at the walls and we stared at the furniture. We tried to look anywhere but at each other. We both broke down at the same time and tried to say I'm sorry amid a flood of tears. We talked out our feelings and hopes and fears.

By the time we were finished we had to make repairs on our makeup before Lady Judith saw us. The brightness returned to the house and all it's occupants.

With my previously surly mood, they had been afraid to plan a big birthday party for me. With my newfound joy, we decided to delay my celebration a couple days and have it on the following weekend. We contacted all my companies and requested that they announce a party at my home for all to attend. No presents were to be brought; their presence was all that I desired. If they felt obligated to do something, then a donation to the company party fund would suffice. I also requested a sign up sheet to estimate the number attending.

The party was a tremendous success. I had the opportunity to meet all my new and existing employees and their families. I learned that a couple new hires had proposed and had set wedding dates. There were games for adults, children and mixed competitions. My girls had a wonderful time playing with the other children. I had enjoyed myself especially watching the girls play.

That night Lisa had a fever of 105 Degrees F (40.6 C). She was fine the next day, although she refused to eat very much. The fever failed to return so we watched her for any other signs but quickly forgot about it.

Where was Ed Mikesell now? All Sally knew was that he had been a Patrol Officer until his parents died in an accident and left him with more money than he knew what to do with. He quit the Patrol and roamed around looking for a goal in life. Sally had told him the official version of my story. Beautiful mother of 27 girls and all the media hype that I tried to avoid.

*

With everything back to normal the girls' birthdays started to roll around. We tried to space them out a little so that they could each have the feeling of being special if only for one day a year.

Arnie informed me that the clearing of the Power Generator room was complete and that they would start the installation of the new Generator soon. The new Stabilization Generator was completely installed awaiting power on checks. The second generator was being disassembled for inspection but that was going to be put on hold until the Power Generator was mounted and the walls put back in place.

Commander Copeley had recently started having a Patrol presence 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Now that the Station was nearing completion he had to man it to comply with the Patrol regulations. After all the Patrol was here to ensure the safety of all space going vessels. They were also mandated to check for contraband and to keep a lookout for pirates. All these duties were just a highlight of their duties under Patrol regulations.

With their permanent assignment to the Station, they were given a small living area that they could call their own and be responsible for its upkeep. Cooking would be a rotating assignment until the full compliment of people arrived.

The Power Generator was soon installed and given its first power up while still in a vacuum. If any arcs occurred in vacuum then no fire would have to be extinguished. The first power test was successful and the walls started to be installed.

With the Patrol personnel living on the Station now the pirate ship was now almost abandoned. All the training crews had been through the inspection routine several times. There was little this group could hope to learn from it. Through Commander Copeley I learned that the Patrol now had no further use for it but didn't have the authority to do anything else with it. Through Commander Copeley, I sent a letter to Admiral Howe to outright purchase the ship. With Commander Copeley's permission I had my new men start to practice repairing the ship when not actively working on the Station, a Patrol ship or one of Captain Manley's ships.

Later when the authorization for the sale finally came through, the Admiral also authorized a small Patrol Cuter to be transferred to Mander III and maintained out of the proceeds of the sale until revenue increased from other sources.

From all the inspection performed by the Patrol people, I had a complete list of essential material needed to completely repair the ship. Some things would still be needed but until ships power was restored, there were just some things that you couldn't check. I sent this list to Captain Manley to purchase and deliver.

With pressure checks completed and a few small leaks repaired the Station was ready for a series of power checks. First a no load power check to ensure that no arcing would occur during operation. With the first test successful, small load were slowly added. With the load back to zero we engaged the new Stabilization generator. After it settled in and no power fluctuations were found, the small loads were again engaged to test full loading. Except for the second Stabilization Generator the Station was up and running. All we needed now was the full crew.

With this news I told Sally to send out the starting date for our new hires for one month from today. I also sent word to Dupres 7 for our installation crew to return home. I also was notified that three sets of accounting people were now on site examining the books of the banks on Sigma 7. They would also examine the records of any other bank or financial institution that was discovered.

Lisa again had a high fever for no apparent reason. A routine doctor's visit didn't show anything unusual other than she hadn't gained much weight since her last exam.

**

The second Stabilization Generator was damaged but with parts from the other generator it was quickly repaired and operational. The Station was now operational and ahead of schedule. The news was sent to Dupres 7 and from there was broadcast for all to hear. There was a new Station at Mander III where you could re-provision and get repairs completed. Also all further communications upgrade work would only be done on site.

As if on cue, the Utallian Space Works Universal filed suit in the World Courts against my company and myself. Winslow and Hayes had been preparing for this and had all the documents and previous court orders and declarations in hand. They were in and out the door before they knew what had happened.

During the next two weeks, the remainder of our Station crew arrived. The installation crew returned also during this time. We also received the official word of Admiral Howe's retirement. The official ceremony would occur in about two months.

I immediately sent a message offering him the job of Station manager. This offer was not a payoff for all the help he gave my company. Everything that he did benefited the Patrol and their mission as much as it benefited me. He was a good man and I needed one for the job.

Ed was reported back in the area, but he never docked at the Station. Even though it was now open to the general public.

For several months Lady Judith had required that we go out for a formal dinner. The Excalibur was the choice of locations. We dined under the watchful eye of Lady Judith and listened to the live entertainment. Every few months a banquet was held for various causes and events. Although I often had an escort, they had no interest for me. If the were young enough to be compatible they were too immature for my taste. If the were mature enough to be interesting, they were at least old enough to be my father. Age regression is not all it is cracked up to be. I had seen Mr. Mikesell at the last one however he was alone and soon left.

Ongoing reports from Sigma 7 and the bank investigation only made the initial reports of total destruction and nothing of recoverable value on the planet as patently ludicrous. They were daily finding off planet investments and holdings. With everything that they found only the question of WHY was still unanswered.

***

With the spread of the news that Mander III would have a Station, the city council started to promote business connections in the Omega Sector and beyond. With the increase of shipping starting to come through, the ships delivering cargo here now had shipments to carry to the Omega Sector. With shorter shipping distances business orders began to rise sharply for all businesses that shipped off planet.

Sally and I are at the hospital right now. Lisa has been sick for three days. It started like the last few times with a high fever, only this time she started to vomit and her fever wouldn't stay down. I don't like the look on the doctor's face. He has asked a specialist to assist with the diagnoses. I'm scared. I've never seen her look so pale and listless.

Doctor Azel is approaching and his face is grim. "Mrs. Owens?" He began.

"Yes, Doctor, I'm Marcia Owens." I responded.

"Your daughter is an extremely sick little girl." He continued. "I think I know what is wrong with her, but the test takes ten days to incubate. If I am correct, she doesn't have that much time to delay treatment. I've had her put in a class one survival chamber for now. She has to get to Ringold 5 as soon as possible for treatment. From what I know of you and your girls, I think it would be wise to test you all for the same conditions."

"I thought that it would take ten days for the results?" I asked. "On the one hand you tell me that Lisa has to go to Ringold 5 immediately and then I need to wait ten days for the results of the rest of our tests? I don't understand. What is this test for?"

"I'm sorry," he apologized, "I'm getting ahead of myself. Your daughter is suffering from what I believe is a mutated gene. There haven't been any reported cases in over 90 years. The medical center on Ringold 5 has the only facilities capable of fixing this problem. It only seems to be life threatening to children under 3 years old."

"What about the MedRejuv Chamber?" I asked desperately.

"Unfortunately Lisa isn't old enough to survive the treatment." The Doctor replied. "It's not that she would die from the age regression, but all of her memories would be lost in the process."

"I'll have to check the Station and see what ships are in." I half said to myself. "They'll need room for five and the chamber."

"I can send out an emergency call for assistance." Offered Doctor Azel. "There is usually a Patrol ship in the general area. Even if you don't need it, your other daughters might. I want all of you here for testing in the morning. In the meantime, I'll have Lisa prepared for travel."

"Sally and I drove home and told the family what was to happen. I sent the girls to bed since they would be up early for the tests. With that girls settled in for the night, I called the Port communications for a patch to the Station.

"Arnie?" I inquired as he responded. "This is Marcia."

"Oh, hi boss." Arnie responded. "Kinda late for chit-chat isn't it?"

"Yes it is Arnie." I replied. "How is everything going there?"

"As smooth as I could expect." He replied. "I just hate this paperwork. When do I get relieved of that end of it Boss?"

"Soon Arnie, soon." I answered. "Admiral Howe is retiring soon and has consented to be your new boss."

"Halleluiah!" Exclaimed Arnie. "Freedom is in sight."

"Arnie?" I inquired. "Are there any ships here or scheduled to arrive anytime soon?"

"As far as I know, there isn't anything scheduled in for a week or more." He returned. The only ship in the area is that yacht that we welded to the Station a while back. He replenished yesterday and may be planning to head out soon."

"Thanks Arnie." I concluded. "I have to go now, bye."

"Bye, Boss." He ended.

I then placed a call to the Excalibur to see if Mr. Mikesell was registered. I was informed that he was but was checking out early the next morning. I requested to be transferred to his room.

"Hello." Came a sleepy voice I recognized.

"Mr. Mikesell," I hesitantly began, "this is Marcia Owens. I have a situation that I would like to discuss with you. It is so urgent that it must be tonight."

"What is so urgent that we meet tonight?" He asked. "I was planning to leave on the morning."

"That is exactly why I must talk with you tonight." I insisted. "It is a matter of life and death to one of my daughters. Can we meet in the dining room at the Excalibur in say one hour?"

"Yeah, that's fine." He responded. "I'll have time to clean up a bit first."

"I couldn't tell from his voice how he was reacting. Was he just tired, was he annoyed that I had bothered him while he was sleeping? I just didn't know.

"I arrived at the dining room early. He entered a few minutes after I had been seated. He still looked a little tired. I waved to get his attention and waited for him to be seated.

"Mr. Mikesell. I need to get my daughter to Ringold 5 as soon as possible." I began without preamble. "I would like to hire your ship to take us there."

"I wasn't planning to go the Ringold 5 and I generally don't hire out for just anyone." He responded.

"Please, I beg you to reconsider." I pleaded. "If I don't get my daughter to Ringold 5 soon she'll die without proper treatment. Yours is the ONLY ship in the area. I know that we have started off on the wrong foot, but don't let that be the cause of my daughters death."

"Pardon me, Mrs. Owens." He stammered. "I didn't mean that I wouldn't take you to Ringold 5. I was just trying to say that I would take you but not for money. You have lovely daughters and I couldn't stand to see any of them hurt in any way."

I barely understood him through my fear of him not taking us. I stood up and went to his side of the table and hugged him. I think that I hugged him too long because the waiter coughed to interrupt us. I hurriedly sat down and picked up my menu. We ordered our meal and I suggested that we start over. He had a questioning look on his face.

"Hi, I'm Marcia Owens." I started offering my hand.

"Hi, Marcia." He responded, as he understood. "My name is Edward Mikesell the III, but to my friends I'm just Ed."

"Well, Just Ed." I teased as we shook hands. "Nice to meet you."

"Tell me something about yourself Ed." I requested.

"My parents were well off." He began. "I was raised with all the luxuries. As a teen I didn't see anything as a challenge. Then I met a Patrol Recruiter. He introduced me to a new way of life. He never really lied to me but there were things he never mentioned but some he may have never known about either. When I was old enough I joined the Patrol and went to the Academy. I served for almost 4 years and was a Lieutenant with hopes of advancing further. Then my world crashed."

"What happened?" I inquired.

"My parents were killed in a plane crash." He explained. "The charter airline company was at fault. Poor maintenance practices and doctored logs and records were uncovered during the investigation. There was a big lawsuit and a big settlement to the family of the crew and myself. Not that it helped me bear the loss of my parents. I quit the Patrol and began roaming around."

"That explains a part of it I guess." I commented half to myself.

"Wherever I went everyone recognized me or my money." He lamented. "Mostly they were trying to sell me something or invest in their get rich quick scheme. The women were only trying to marry me for my money it seemed. There my have been a few good ones out there but I couldn't tell the difference. I became jaded about women and just used them. If they were after my money, then I would just play along until I got tired of them."

"So what's different now? I asked.

"You." He answered simply. "When I first arrived here I was an arrogant SOB and got just what I deserved. When your lawyers finished with that shyster that I thought was a lawyer, I had learned a lesson but not enough of one. I still thought that I could sweet talk you into letting me have my way. Man was I ever wrong."

"I won't apologize for that smashed nose, you had your hands where they were not invited." I asserted a little hotly.

"Yes I was an ass that night and many more before then too." I admitted. At the hospital where they took care of my broken nose, I heard some of what you had done here. I was impressed. Then I heard about the your girls. Somebody had a Vid Clip of you and the girls on Sigma 7. I was stunned. I had to find out more. In the Vid Clip, who shows up but Admiral Howe? There was someone that I could get answers from."

"You talked with Admiral Howe?" I asked nervously.

"When my parents died, he tried to get me to consider possibly returning after a short leave, but I was determined to leave permanently." He explained. "As soon as my nose was reasonably mended, I went to see the Admiral. He told me most of your story but mentioned that only you could tell me what the story behind the story really was."

"Perhaps someday but now is way too soon to even think about it." I responded with some relief. The Admiral was keeping to the official record for my story.

"Now tell me what is wrong with your daughter and which one?" He asked.

"The doctors suspect that my youngest daughter Lisa has a genetic defect that can only be cured on Ringold 5." I began to explain. "The test results take ten days but she can't delay her departure for treatment that long. They're also going to test the other girls and myself but we won't know the results before we have to leave. The results will be sent ahead to Ringold 5 by unmanned currier. How big is your ship?"

There are accommodation to sleep 10 passengers and 4 crewmen." Ed replied proudly. "I usually only have one crewman. He can also double as a pilot when necessary. The man I brought here last time, I finally fired. His action here was the final straw, especially after meeting you."

"I'm glad that something positive came of our encounter." I commented.

"Lisa has been placed in a Class One survival Pod." I explained. "I had planned to bring Lisa, Grace, Tennille, and Amy and one of the nannies that is also a qualified nurse."

"There should be plenty of room and I have fresh provisions onboard." Ed explained. "As soon as you are ready you can load."

"Could you dock at the Station to make it easier to load Lisa in her chamber?" I requested.

"Can I trust that you won't weld it this time?" He asked with a smile.

We finished our meal with pleasant conversation and plans for the trip. I also informed Ed that we had some special test to take, in the morning, before we could leave but Lisa would be sent ahead with a nurse/nanny to speed our departure. As we parted I gave him a kiss on the cheek to thank him.

By the time I had returned home, Sally had already started the preparations. Since I had not called or returned home early, she assumed that we would be leaving on Ed's ship. Even at that it took most of the night to select a minimum amount of clothes, toys and special foods and other items and then try to reduce that amount. I managed a few restless hours of sleep worried for Lisa and what the tests would show. Why would a disease that was dormant for over 90 years suddenly strike my little girls?

With everything packed we sent our baggage to the Port and left for the hospital. They tested the girls that were leaving with me and myself first. With that done, I explained that Mommy had to go away for a while because Lisa was sick. I then asked them all to obey Auntie Sally until I returned and for the bigger girls to help their sisters. With heart-rending sobs, a river of tears and many (I love you)'s, we were finally off.

The trip up to the Station was uneventful. The wonders of the trip lost to the girls too young to understand. The whole Station crew greeted us with words of hope and encouragement. Arnie gave me a package to give to the Patrol investigations branch. It contained all the maintenance logs and all other records that survived and could be recovered. We quickly boarded and departed for Ringold 5.

Ed had arranged the sleeping quarters. The girls and I took over the crew's quarters while Lisa and the nurse took the cabin closest to us. The pilot/crewman took one of the other cabins while Ed had is own private room. While a little cramped from what we were used to, we could manage under the circumstances.

I spent the trip dividing my time between playing with the girls and standing a vigil over Lisa. Ed forced me to take breaks and eat. Often eating with me to ensure that I did eat something. The awful things that can go through your head when you try to think what you could have done differently to avoid this life threatening condition. The unknown is the worst. With a known disease you can seek the best medical help, follow their advice and even if you fail, you know what you have been fighting and that you've done your best. With the unknown the days are spent in hopeless frustration wondering what you could have done differently while the nights are spent in terrifying nightmares of nameless fear.

Ed tried to keep me distracted from the constant dread. Between his demands that I eat and his plea to keep him company on the bridge to help keep him awake. He helped me maintain a semblance of sanity on the trip. Ed also adjusted the day/night hours so that when we arrived at Ringold 5 we were close to their time.

Doctor Azel had sent a messenger drone ahead with his tentative diagnoses and records of treatment. After sending a message of our arrival at Ringold 5 we were notified that a medical team was standing by for our arrival. Soon after landing, we were whisked off to the hospital. Ed was lost in the shuffle or he decided not to come.

I finished the day giving a complete medical history of Lisa and the rest of us girls. For now I left out the use of the chamber on Sigma 7. We were assigned rooms in the convalescent / visitor's center. The next day the message drone arrived with our results from Mander III.

Doctor Gomez discussed the results of the tests with me. There was only one other that showed up positive on the test. It was my test that showed positive. How could that be? What was the cause? Then he hit me with a bombshell.

"Mrs. Owens," he said, "it's obvious from our tests that Lisa inherited this condition from you. Naturally the DNA tests show that you are the biological mother. As such it would be natural for her to inherit this gene from you."

"How did I get it?" I asked, stunned by the revelation.

"That was a question that we hoped that you could help answer." Responded Doctor Gomez. "The last cases of this particular disease was caused by a bacteria found on newly Terri formed worlds. Since then all newly opened worlds have to be disinfected by the Terri forming company and they have to have a bonded insurance company certify compliance. Where was Lisa born?"

"Dupres 7." I responded absently. It then dawned on me that the Doc must have used Lisa's DNA to alter me. That way any test would confirm that I truly was Lisa's mother. I broke into tears of joy thinking that Lisa and I were one in body and not just in my heart. The Doctor misinterpreted the tears thinking that I was blaming myself for Lisa's problems.

I consented to the treatment recommended for Lisa and I. It would last for two weeks. We were subjected to a special gene splicing procedure that was still experimental for the most part but had so far proven safe and effective.

Lisa was still listed critical and was monitored 24 hours a day. They were positive that the procedure would work but she was in a fragile condition for now.

Between treatments, I went to visit the Admiral. When I arrived, I noticed that the office nameplate now read Admiral Joseph H. Osgood. As a young Ensign I remembered serving under a Captain Osgood, could it be?

After I introduced myself to the receptionist, I was escorted to Admiral Howe's new temporary office. Due to his retirement he had already turned over command to his replacement and was finishing any business that he could before he actually left.

"Admiral, Marcia Owens to see you." Announced the receptionist over the intercom.

"Send her in, send her in please." He enthusiastically responded.

"Marcia, I'm happy to see you here," he happily greeted me with outstretched arms, "but what is the occasion? Your not here to make sure I show up for work are you?"

"No Admiral." I replied. "It's more serious than that."

 

 Continued Chapter 5

  

  

  

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