We as a family withdrew from the waters, all was well or at least I had hoped so. Gordon placed an arm around me as I held our baby walking. The arboretum was almost empty when we arrived to the shore. We looked into each other's eyes there was the sign of contentment there in Gordon's. I knew that my eyes had the same signs. I was happy with life at this point. I had changed in so many ways whereby I had set a path to self-destruction now my life was stable. I had the universe at my disposal!
"Honey, we have to get you ready for the ascendance ceremony. I'll take Lynn with me. Paul and Eve are waiting for us in the passageway. Paul will be coming with Lynn and I, while Eve will go with you." Gordon said.
All I could do was to give him a kiss. I wanted to do more but there were still many that were walking around in this sanctuary. I heard the dolphins start their medleys and the birds sang as we kissed. There was a peacefulness here that I didn't want to give up.
I began to think if there was a way for the three of us to remain for a time on the ship. I wanted to learn all I could from the people that were on board but at the same time we had obligations back on Earth as we all did. I pushed those thoughts to the back of my mind.
We broke from each other arms, starting to walk toward the passageway that I had previously entered for the ascendancy testing. I felt a bit naked as I walked in my bra and panties, but I saw no one as we walked to the doors. I saw both Paul and Eve waving to them, which they returned eagerly.
"Are you ready Arlene? Both of your mothers are in Arlene's stateroom waiting for Arlene." Eve said softly.
"And both fathers are waiting for Gordon in his." Paul said.
"I don't like the sound of that. Alright, What's going on you two?" I said.
By the expressions they had on their faces I just know they had to hiding something.
"Honest Arlene all they said is that they had a surprise for the both of you. We swear we know nothing else, besides we have been sworn to secrecy By the Grand Duchesses." Eve said.
Grand Duchesses? Who the hell were they? I must have had a stupid look on my face.
"Your mother and Amanda hold the title of Grand Duchess and advisors to the queen, king, and Princess Lynn." Eve said.
"Our fathers each hold the title of Grand Duke and advisor to the king of the realm." Gordon said.
"Okay stop, I still have much to learn about this nobility stuff. Now who were all those people at the testing?"
"They were the High and Low Council members from the other ships in the Armada. Now we better get going and get ready." Gordon said.
We embraced one further time I didn't want Gordon to leave me. Eve and Paul pulled us apart with Gordon, Lynn, and Paul going in one direction and with Eve pulling me forcibly into the other direction.
Again, we walked those passageways of the ship. Again I saw no one else. Several times I stopped to look out at the stars and planets in the viewing ports. I saw nothing except the depths of the cold, pitch-blackness of space. On the second stop seeing the planet Pluto and its satellite moon, Chiron, rewarded me, although I didn't know it until Eve told me. She explained the mothership was in an orbit encircling the smallest and farthest planet of the solar system, Pluto.
Due to the technology we had, it was next to impossible for anyone to detect all the ships or their presence either by sight or spurious electronic transmissions. She also explained that this was a perfect listening post to hear and watch for other species that might come to visit or cause trouble to Earth. Not all the species that traveled in space were or are as peaceful as we are.
I had always heard of the planets but had never dreamed I would get to see any of them. This was the dream of many on Earth, I so wished I could make those dreams possible for them. Perhaps one day it would be possible.
We continued to walk to our destination. As I have stated before all the passageways and doors looked the same to me. Was I lost? Oh yes! Did I know what part of the ship I was in? Oh No! I guess I'd better get a map and a sense of direction.
We finally arrived at our destination, entering through the doors into what could be appropriately described as my Stateroom Suite. I was happy to see and hear that no one seemed to be around. I went to the bathing area, taking off my panties and bra set while Eve stayed out in the lounge area.
I saw an enclosure near the wall not unlike the shower stalls on Earth. Quickly I entered it. I needed to remove the salt that was still on my body. I saw a nozzle in the wall but no handles for the water. I remembered that mostly everything was done onboard by either voice or mental commands. I first tried mental commands that didn't seem to work. Then I said, "Shower, water on, one hundred and ten degrees Fahrenheit." Those seemed to be the magic words as the water came from the nozzle with a gentle force.
"I see you found the shower and how to operate it. When you're finished, dry off and I brought you a robe and slippers. Then we'll eat." Mother's voice said loudly from across the room.
"Mother, please make sure that Eve also eats with us please."
Mother sounded too pleasant I've heard that tone before in her voice. There was a problem she was worried about that she didn't want to tell me about yet. Like in the old days we just had to let her bring it up in the conversation otherwise she would remain silent and then there would be hell to pay. Possibly I could change that. I quickly finished the shower and put on a robe and slippers I found that mother had brought in.
Entering the lounge area was an entertainment and communications area. Built into another wall was, by Earth standards, a bar that had dishes of food with different colored decanters of liquids. There was also what appeared to be an Earth style microwave oven that I was to find out was a food synthesizer that prepared all the food and liquids if we wished to dine in our stateroom.
Mother, Amanda, and Eve had already gotten their food and were sitting down waiting for me. I was happy that this was totally informal, as I did want to just relax as I did in our house on Earth eating meals in the kitchen with Carmen our Chef. I really missed her!
Walking to the food dishes I took and feasted on shrimp, abalone, scallops and kelp. There was a deep red liquid that I took just a bit of, since I didn't know what it was and no one said to me what it was.
I sat down at a table with them seated around me saying, "Okay, mothers, what's the problem? Don't try to hide it. Remember I can also feel your emotions. Or conceivably I can force it out of the both of you."
"Eve since you are intelligence and security for the Armada, will you do the honors?" Amanda asked.
"My Queen…………" Eve said and stopped.
"Eve, don't you dare give me that My Queen stuff. Spit it out!"
"Well…………Um………… we had a moving contact that was picked up by one of our probes a few days ago that entered one of the galaxies that are still many light years away. It was decided to send one of our heavy cruisers based on Mother Ship Three to do a reconnaissance of that galaxy and find out who they are after a planet disappeared."
"Wait a minute, what the hell is a heavy cruiser doing with the fleet? I thought that we're peaceful? What can this ship do and how many are there? How big is it? How………? A whole planet?"
"I'll answer those questions, Eve. Okay first we are peaceful but we will not stand by to be slaughtered by another species. It was decided by the queen on the homeworld to make sure all of the explorers had a way of fighting back if attacked. It is called self-preservation!
Each of the Mother Ships carries four heavy cruisers that are attached to beneath the hull and interlocked to us. They are over two miles long in length. All are heavily armored for fending off projectiles weapons and have the ability to absorb all forms of energy-based weapons rendering those weapons useless. The weapons on just one Cruiser can, if used, destroy a small planet but that could deplete their energy stores. We have never done that and we hope to we never will. They are all extremely fast and maneuverable exceeding several times the speed of light with wormhole flight capabilities. All ship systems are updated as we develop new technology.
Each Cruiser can take several of our Shuttles on board for re-supplying and carry fifty Scout Ships. The Scout crews normally stay on their craft as they have living quarters there. They are ready at a moments notice for flight. Their firepower, electronics, propulsion systems and weapons can almost match the cruisers though they are faster with less armor. The cruiser is a base for our scouts as the Mother Ships are bases to all of the craft."
"By my rough calculations that's over twenty thousand Scout Ships and four hundred of these heavy cruisers. That's over one hundred and twenty thousand for just the crews of the scouts. Okay, so what about this contact that was found?" I asked.
"The probes that were fired from the cruiser sent back more information to the Cruiser that immediately was evaluated. It is a mining vessel that belongs to a race called Krea'ckh. They have a nasty habit of destroying planets that are habitable or not. They seem to care less if there are lifeforms on a planet as long as they get what they seek, water and the minerals. By the cruiser and scouts plotting their course and speed they are headed they are enroute to this Solar System, directly to Earth."
"I would have to assume by all of you that we are about to lose our adopted world, is that correct?"
"Arlene, both Amanda and I have seen what this race has done to many planets. The answer, I would say, is yes."
"I see several problems, the first is that Earth is still not technically advanced to fend off these interlopers. The second is that Earth is now our adopted home world. Do we tell these people what is coming? How in the hell do we explain who or what we are? How do we convey to them that we are not hostile? Do we tell them everything? Can the governments be trusted? That last question I have to say is, No." I said as I popped a garlic-buttered scallop into my mouth.
"It has always been the policy to never be deceitful to any species. We normally do have a non-interference policy but in this situation I think that it has been voided. I know that the High and Low Councils will do as you request they do." Amanda said.
"Mother, It is not as I wish, it is a matter of what is right, to ensure that all the people of this planet we live on survive and flourish."
I resumed eating my meal looking at everyone at the table. I saw them all nod their heads in agreement and smile. I knew at that moment that I had made the right decision. But the major question was how to show the people of Earth that we meant no harm to anyone. Sure, I believe it was within our technological means to take control of their nuclear stores or anything electronic and mechanical. I couldn't help but giggle out loud a scenario that could conceivably unfold.
"What's so funny, dear?" my mother asked quizzically.
"Oh, I just thought of an old Sci-Fi movie with Michael Renee and Patricia Neal."
"Oh, Which one?" Eve asked.
"The Day the Earth Stood Still."
"I remember that one with the robot cop and the alien that came to warn Earth. It was either peace or total annihilation, if I recall. It was an excellent movie. I think we have it in the library." Amanda said.
"That's the one. Now we're in that type of situation except we have to tell the Earth of an impending disaster. I mean we could do all of the things in that movie, but how do we control the panic? If we make too large of a showing with our craft they may retaliate thinking they are to be invaded. Again we have panic but by the military with the possibility of the loss of life, mostly theirs."
"Dear, I hate to rush you but we still have to get you ready for the investiture ceremony. We'll work it out but for now your people need a queen. We can talk as we get you ready."
"Your mother's is correct. I'll clean the table off and be in to help." Eve said.
Amanda and my mother each took me by an arm gently lifting and steering me to another room that I had dressed in earlier.
Okay I was a mess! Amanda and my mother took care of my hair, nails and makeup. All they kept saying is that a queen had to be presentable and a lady at all times. Alright, so I do like the relaxed, casual look. While they worked to get me ready, I thought of the situation we were in. I had decided on a course of action that might go against the councils and our laws. I could see no other way of us not getting involved.
"Since you're both here I need witnesses to what I'm about to do." I said.
"Don't you dare do what I think you are going to do, Arlene." My mother said.
"She wouldn't do that, would she?" Amanda said.
"Eve come in here. Drop what you're doing. Now girl!" I yelled.
As soon as Eve entered I said, "Tell the pilot or captain………"
"It's the captain dear, and she's right beside you doing your hair."
I must have had a strange look on my face saying stupidly, "Huh……?"
"Damn it! The captain is your mother and father, Arlene." Amanda said.
"Okay, I want this ship to go under stealth to within two nautical miles of the Earth's space station. I want this ship to maintain this position until we are ready. You will notify the Armada so they will not be alarmed. They are all to monitor what we will do. Nothing else is to be disclosed until I state so.
Eve, can we tap into all the Earth's military and diplomatic frequencies and video. What about their classified frequencies?"
"Sure, but………?
"No buts! I want this done! Ouch! Don't pull so hard on my hair mother. Eve, either you or Paul will tell me when it can be done or finished."
"You heard your queen, Eve. Whatever she has planned had better work." Amanda said.
"Eve, please also tell Tommy to make all preparations to get under way. Alert the Armada and the crew of our intention to leave orbit." My mother said with remorse.
"Mothers, Eve, I intend to tell the Earth of our existence. We will be requesting a meeting of all the superpower leaders and those leaders that can and will attend at the United Nations Building in seventy-two hours after our existence is confirmed by the space station crew and by NASA. They must find out about the impending danger to their and our world or we will lose another world."
"We can see your point but there has to be another way to avoid this exposing of us all. There seems to be several problems such as emissaries, panic of the masses and our very existence." Amanda said
"Oh no you don't mother, I can see right through that ploy to make me change my mind."
"Eve, do as I said. There is no way of turning around now or going back. I am committed to my decision. Furthermore I am my own emissary! I would not send someone else into possible danger without me going first."
"Correction Arlene, we as in all of us are committed. The Elders will approve your decisions. You have proved yourself this day to be worthy of the title ‘Queen of Our People’ and will have the respect of your people."
Amanda took my hand and kissed it then bowed followed by my mother and Eve as I blushed.
"Grand Duchesses Amanda and Iris, I thank you and you too Eve, my security specialist." After saying those words, I too bowed to them all.
As Eve left to do my dirty work, Amanda and my mother attacked me with everything they had stashed in clothing. Most of the articles of my clothing came from Earth such as my undergarments and shoes. For some reason they felt that the ship's uniform clothing would not be appropriate for the ceremony. My feeling of the ship’s clothing was they were comfortable and fulfilled a purpose. I just hoped I didn't look like Dale Arden or a ‘Ming the Merciless’ clone again.
I didn't mind the emerald green satin corset and lace panties I was thrown into. I became used to the corset going to the fancy formal affairs I had to attend with Gordon. Next they helped me with sheer green stockings and green dyed three-inch heeled sling back pumps. Next was a multi-layered green crinoline and half-slip.
They both disappeared for several minutes into what I imagined was my closet. When my mother and mother-in-law came out they held a gorgeous emerald green satin and lace gown that closed down the center of the back with emerald green satin covered buttons with a zipper below the waist. The sleeves and top of the bodice are also emerald green colored sheer lace and the remainder of the bodice to the waist is covered with the same layer. It had a high neckline made also of green lace. The sleeves were pointed and closed with one green satin covered button. The waist of the gown was fitted and gathered. The skirt was edged with lace including the train that was approximately five-foot long. There were also lace sections sewn to the train and the front of the skirt. There are pearl shells sewn to these sections with various fish and crustaceans portrayed in embroidery on the train. The bodice of the gown was double lined with satin and the skirt was unlined. I remembered that the woman I saw in the picture, my other mother or donor, was wearing an identically styled dress.
After I had the dress on I thought it looked to me as more of a wedding dress instead of a gown a queen would wear. I was not about to cause a scene because of this dress. It was beautiful and I looked good that was all that counted.
Both mothers asked me to sit out in the lounge while they got ready leaving me to my thoughts and the butterflies in my stomach. I regretted eating all of that rich seafood.
I sat on the edge of a lounge chair being very careful not to wrinkle the fabric. I would never hear the end of having wrinkles in my dress. My mother was unforgiving in those types of matters. I had learned well from my experiences with her and my sisters.
I replayed my words to my mothers and to Eve in my mind. I was convinced I had done the right thing. It was then that I heard the words I wanted to hear coming from a panel in the wall near the door.
"This is the captain speaking. All hands prepare to get underway. Make all underway and system reports to captain on the bridge. The ship is at condition yellow. I repeat condition yellow. All defensive weapons on line and ready to fire if needed."
As I heard those words I thought that the voice sounded familiar. Then I told myself it was my father's voice. I imagined him onboard and in command of an earth ocean going vessel. I thought that both sailors at sea and in space used the same terminology and I again thought of the similarities.
As I daydreamed I didn't hear my mothers enter the compartment until Amanda touched my shoulder lightly. I turned my head to them, both wore similar gowns but in pastel green. I was helped to my feet with each of them taking an arm while I grabbed the train of my dress.
Going out the door or hatch and into the passageway we took an anti-grav pad straight up. My stomach was once again in rebellion but I ignored it. When the pad stopped I had to let my eyes adjust to the blue lighting. Many people dressed in their shipboard uniforms were gathered by electronic consoles and panels that contained many different colored lights that flashed, blinked or remained steady.
I saw Gordon, his father Daniel, and of course my father walk toward us after my eyes had adjusted. Paul stood to the side cradling Lynn in his arms.
"Ladies, High Elder Felicia Cortez is ready to begin the ceremony. Lady Arlene are you ready?" My father asked as he took my arm.
"Yes, father, we are." I answered.
All he did was nod his head as Gordon took my hand into his leading us all to the center of the bridge where nearby two flight chairs were affixed to the decking.
There was a Hispanic lady about Amanda's and my Mother's age standing on a raised platform in standard shipboard uniform holding a book. I had to assume this was the High Elder Felicia Cortez.
"Please step in front of me." She said.
"By what right are you here before me?"
I at once felt the gentle push at my privacy wall. It was Gordon telling me what to say.
"We are here to claim the right of ascendancy to the throne. We claim that right through royal bloodline to join the two continents as one through our marriage and our daughter, the Princess Lynn our heir. May our world be one, may our people be one, joined through the monarchy and this union." Gordon and I said in unison.
"Is there any dissension or challenge as to the bloodline of the prince and princess?”
There was absolute silence on the bridge.
"Very well!"
From the corner of my eyes I saw movement. It was Sheila, Irene and Karla carrying a pillow each that held the crowns and scepters of the people we were to serve and unite.
"By these symbols, do you swear to all the people you are there for them at all times for their protection and maintain their growth as a people casting aside any personal gain?"
"We do."
"Accept now the symbols of your office, Queen Arlene and King Gordon."
Gordon and I had the crowns placed on our heads. On our right hand ring fingers were placed simple gold rings decorated with a crown and scepter etched on an emerald.
In our right hands we took up the golden colored scepters, the symbols of the king and queen and the authority we held.
"Your people have waited for this day since the destruction of our homeworld. We have all watched you both grow into the beings you are now. The lessons learned were invaluable to your nature. The most important lesson was that you are human, you can and will make mistakes. We as a people ask that you take guidance from all. The weight of the people you serve is great. As queen and king, wife and husband, mother and father you are one.
The people are united once again. We as a people have a queen and king. Rejoice! Let peace, knowledge, and prosperity flourish throughout our people.
Your Majesties, Queen Arlene the first and King Gordon the first do you accept these responsibilities?"
"We Do"
With those final words from the High Elder Cortez and ourselves, we turned to face those on the bridge. The cheers erupted by those on the Bridge that watched the ceremony. Gordon and I breached protocol by giving each other a kiss, which made the cheers grow louder.
I looked over to all the people that celebrated with their cheering. I was proud to be a part of their lives. I silently thought to myself that I hoped this would not be the last time they where able to express their joy.
"My Queen."
I turned around to face High Elder Cortez.
"Congratulations are in order for this day on your ascendancy to the throne. We of the councils have all received your orders and agree with the decision you made in regards to Earth. You shall have our full cooperation in this operation."
"High Elder Cortez, It was with a heavy heart that I placed all of us in the greatest possible danger. How did you know what I planned?"
"We believe you slipped and let your wall fail. Every man, woman and child in the Armada and on Earth heard your thoughts. At first the Council members where affronted that it was not discussed with them, but then we each realized the dropping of the veil of your private thoughts was perhaps no more than accidental."
The mental note to myself was; you were negligent. Be aware what you do! The entire Armada? I'm a walking psychic transmitter! In the whole solar system? All I could do was to smile very diplomatically of course while I chastised myself mentally.
"We thank the councils for the approval of my plans. The doors are always open to any of the council members for any type of problem. We will try to ensure there will be a solution to any problems that may occur. If you will excuse us but I think it would be advisable for us to be dressed in the clothing of the ship and crew. I feel out of place dressed as I am."
"I understand totally my queen. Thank you again for the insight."
With those words I went to Paul to get my daughter and spend some time with her.
"Your Highness," Paul said as I approached.
"Paul, thank you for taking such good care of Lynn for us. I need to spend some time with her, so I'll take her while you go help Eve. I'm afraid I gave her a massive assignment to do."
"Thank you, Your Highness," he said as he left for the anti-grav pads.
I then walked over to Gordon and the rest of the family with Lynn cradled in my arms.
"I don't know about anyone one else but I am really uncomfortable. Gordon will you come with me to our stateroom, please, and help me get out of these clothes."
All at once I saw the eyebrows go up on my mother's face. It was then that I realized what I had said.
"I didn't mean that way, mother. I want to get into the ships uniform so I at least blend in normally. Besides I think I'm finally married if I translated those vows and ceremony correctly."
"Your Highness, you were also married by our traditions. You will never blend in normally again. I can see your reasoning and I quite agree. Let us all go change our clothing." Amanda said with a smile.
"Daddy, how long will it be before we reach our objective area?"
"Your Highness, I would have to say about four Earth hours. Why don't you all go and get comfortable. I'll send a message to you when we are within visual range.
Arlene, Your Highness, my daughter, Oh Crap! We are so very proud of what you are about to do. We all feel the same way, as do you. The Council refused to make a decision but you jumped right into the situation. We, all the crews, feel it is right and just." My father said as he gave me a kiss on the cheek.
I blushed as we all walked to the anti-grav pads to the cheering of all the people on the Mother Ship's bridge.
Chapter twenty-five:
Gordon, Lynn and I went to our staterooms. Having changed our clothes into the working uniforms of the ship we both shared the duties of taking care of the necessities of baby care which included much parental love before going to sleep after Lynn had her breast milk.
Gordon and I sat next to each other after Lynn was asleep, with his arms around me just holding me tightly. This was our time, the time for us to be with each other privately. I knew that the next several days and months were going to be a strain on the both of us.
As we were together I must have fallen asleep too. All I could recall was to be awaken by the blare of the announcing system calling me.
"Your Highnesses, we are within visual range of the Earth's space station. We took care not to make any ripples to give us away in the time-displacement theory of theirs," my father said laughing.
He knew as well as I now know that we had gone well beyond that theory in our technology. As a child I was never the scientist, I was always the adventurer to take the risks. Father used to say that scientists were adventurers too, that many of their experiments and calculations were risks. You know, I now know he's right!
"We'll be right up, father."
I looked a Gordon just as I door annunciator went off.
"Door open, please," Gordon said aloud allowing the door to open for our visitor.
"Your Highnesses, I'm sorry to disturb you." Eve said stiffly.
"Eve, while you and Paul are in conference or in our house you will always address as we have always been. And since this is our home……"
"The Royal Brat has spoken." Gordon said teasingly. Damn, he must have spoken to Sheila!
I seriously wanted to hit him but we did have company. He would get what was coming to him later.
"Okay, thank you for that honor. Well anyway as I was beginning to say was that everything is ready for your broadcast on their frequencies. I hope you don't mind but we did some tweaking with the computer and tapped into their top-secret security frequencies. You know the ones they think can't be broken into. I guess they will know then, that we are for real. We also are already into the video channels of NASA and some of the military channels through their spy satellites. The computers are set to interpret you words, inflections and voice into all the Earth's languages."
"Well then, its show time then."
"Your……………Uh………Arlene, Gordon, if I may suggest, It would be best if you both wore your crowns and carried the scepters of you office." Eve said.
"My opinion would be that it's too……… ostentatious." I said.
"Yes I agree it would be, but it would impress them on the video I believe, my dear wife."
"I guess you're both right on that matter. But I will only wear the crown."
Gordon left the room briefly to retrieve the crowns of state.
"Eve, I need a favor."
"Sure anything, if I can do it."
"I want a Scout to bring Carmen up to this ship. Other than you, Paul and family she was the only one to control Lynn."
"Didn't Amanda and Iris tell you?"
"Tell me what?"
"She is onboard. She was the one that made that meal for us."
"Why didn't you tell me? Where is she?"
"She knows and will be here shortly. She was one of the passengers on our shuttle flight that you didn't see. She was told to be quiet by us as a surprise to you. Gordon made the arrangements for her to be picked up by a separate car."
I was so happy I hugged Eve. In the time I spent in the house on the beach it was Carmen that helped to keep me sane and focused. She always took the time to be with Lynn or me even though she was busy in the kitchen. She became more than an employee she became a part of our family from our mothers to my sisters. She became my mother and Amanda's best friend and sometimes an advisor.
"I'll stay here with Lynn and wait for Carmen, while you and Gordon go to the bridge.
The communications you have will only be one way. You can talk and they will have to listen. I only hope we are not using too much power to send those signals out."
"It will be fine whatever you did. I too, hope they will listen."
Gordon came with his crown on and holding mine. He placed it on my head that it rested as an earth style headband would. The center pieces of the crown was again an emerald of large proportions perhaps at least three inches in size, finely etched and polished and surrounded by diamonds of at least five carats apiece surrounded by more smaller diamonds. It was then that I realized that this was not the crown I wore earlier but it was the one in the picture of Aimaila of Kriac, the queen.
"Where is the other crown?"
"I had these made by our craftsmen with materials gathered from Earth. They were made true from the historical archives. It is my gift to you on this day. "
"I love it but don't you think it's a bit pretentious?"
"Not for you, my Queen, or for our predecessors." Gordon said giving me a kiss.
"Remind me to thank you for it later."
"Oh, I will. I will."
We waved to Eve as we walked out the door to the anti-grav units. I swear I'm going to have to get motion sickness pills if I have to keep using these. Gee, I wonder if there are stairs anywhere?
Upon reaching the bluish-lighted bridge we were escorted to the chairs we saw earlier and were told to be comfortable by a crewmember.
I saw another crewmember and asked, "Could we please see the Earth and it's space station."
On a type of screen in front of us I was barely able to make out the planet much less the space station.
As the seconds went by the size of the earth increased until we saw the space station. I thought of the hard work of all those involved. Now we show up with this engineering marvel. I thought of how inferior they would feel. I wanted to tell them that you had to crawl before you could walk.
"Your Majesties, we are within the stated range you ordered."
I saw that Eve and Paul had arrived along with others. Paul and Eve took positions behind and to our sides. I remained totally impassive with no facial expressions.
"Are we ready captain?"
"Whenever you say Your Highness."
"Let's do it then."
I waited until my father pointed to me to begin talking and then saying, "People of the planet Earth we bid you peaceful greetings from another solar system. As of this moment we have taken control of all of your destructive weapons and have rendered them harmless as all your militaries can confirm. All mobile weapons on platforms have been rendered useless this also includes your submarines and truck mounted missile systems.
“Now we will give you ten minutes so that I may speak to your world leaders. You must assure them that this is not a hoax. As we speak, we are within visual distance of the Earth's first space station. They will confirm our existence by radar and visual once we allow them to do so. They must also confirm to you our existence via your encrypted communications to maintain secrecy from the general public so as not to cause undo panic. When they have been prepared we will know.
“The captain of this vessel has told me that we can now be seen and be probed electronically. We will be monitoring your communications before we resume."
I felt a light push on my wall 'You did great so far. I bet that there are some very high-ranking military men that are having terminal diarrhea right now.' it was Eve that joined our thoughts.
I almost lost my control and laughed. How could I explain what Eve thought? Oh well, it's back to work.
"Leaders of the planet Earth, I am Queen Arlene and to my side is my husband King Gordon. In seventy-two hours from now you will be receiving an emissary from me at the United Nation's Building in New York City. I request you treat that person as you would any diplomat.
“What that person says to your General Assembly is of the utmost importance to the survival of your planet, the people and all life that inhabit it. The danger you face is more deadly than you can possibly imagine and I stress it is not from us. I suggest to the entire planet to unite and drop all forms of hostilities amongst yourselves. That is why we are suggesting all the Earth's leaders be present with their delegates.
“One further item for you to note, that your gifted astronomer Carl Sagan was wrong. There is intelligent life in the universe and your space station crew has thusly, seen that proof."
"Your Highness, their Space Shuttle has just been launched from the Space Station and heading toward us.”
“Very well, Captain intercept it and bring it into the landing bay."
I watched as a squadron of six of our Scout Ships intercepted the Space Shuttle bringing them closer to the Mother Ship with the greatest of care and caution.
"To the President of the United States and to NASA by now you must realize that we have control of your Space Shuttle. Your crew will be our guests, as the Shuttle gets refueled. The crew will be safely returned to you shortly. I assure you they are in no harm by anyone on our vessels. As I have said seventy-two hours. Thank you."
"End communications and return their circuits to normal. Maintain control of their weapon circuits." I said
"Their Space Shuttle and crew are now safely aboard. They are coming out of the Shuttle now," my father said.
"Paul meet that crew give them a tour and bring them to my stateroom."
"Yes, Your Highness. My pleasure."
I saw the smiles of joy around the bridge. Everyone seemed to be in a festive mood. All I thought was that now the wheels were put into motion. Now what?
Chapter twenty-six:
We arrived back at our stateroom with Eve in tow. We decided to keep one member of the shuttle crew onboard not as a hostage but to report to those on Earth what technology we had, as they would do undoubtedly. We would also show that person the Armada or maybe just a portion of it. The ship was still visible to those on the space station that we knew were watching these events unfold.
As I approached the door it opened and I walked in. Carmen was seated on a chair reading a paperback novel when she saw it was us. She dropped the book and ran toward us screaming her joy.
"Carmen, it was such a surprise to find out that you were here." I said hugging her, as I would hug Amanda or my mother.
"Now you've gone and done it. How am I supposed to keep my mouth shut to the other chefs about being in a spaceship? And with royalty no less!" Carmen said as she again kissed all of us.
"Carmen I need a favor from you."
"Anything!"
"Well there are some Astronauts coming from the Space Station and…………"
"There is no need to explain, Senora. Sure it will be done and right here in the magnificent kitchens on this ship."
"Oh, thank you. Thank you so very much, Carmen."
As Carmen left the stateroom for the preparation of the feast for those people, the three of us sat until the communications panel called for Eve, which she took in another room on her comm. device.
"Ah………… We have a bit of a problem with the Shuttle Crew and the Shuttle. There are ten guests instead of the normal crew of seven. I told Paul to bring them here after the tour. By the way, they are filming everything. Should we stop them or erase the films?
Also our flight people have found a fuel leak. One of their engines may fail at a critical moment, but the worst is there is a massive hull micro crack that can't be seen. If that ship flies it could or will destroy itself and the Astronauts. We think it was cased by stress."
"Gordon, what do you think?"
"Honey, I would let them film. After all we will be sharing most of our technology. I think we should keep them all for a while and take one back to the space station. I have a feeling that several of them where to relieve a crew on the Space Station and are now just curious passengers"
"Tell my father and mother to use their own discretion. I will abide by whatever decision they make. Stress to them that they are our guests."
Gordon and I sat with each other as Eve relayed what we had said.
Upon returning Eve said, "Your father agrees with you both as does your mother. They've sent for the Armada engineer for help. I've already told Paul."
"Eve, can we pick up any of the satellite news stations in here?"
"Sure, after what we pulled off today we can do anything, I think."
It was almost instantaneous that we began to watch the news coming from satellite feed in what amounted to be a life size image that appeared solid.
There was a special announcement that the superpowers of the world leaked information to the press that they had all lost control over their nuclear weapon stockpiles though none of the nuclear power plants were affected. The weapons had all been suddenly neutralized which mystified all the scientists.
There was a further report that all radio communications among the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard of the United States was disrupted.
There was another report that all the radio system on the Space Station and the Space Shuttle had ceased working or as the press speculated there was a news blackout that something may have gone wrong up there in space.
Paul had entered our stateroom with our guests after announcing himself. We all stood to greet our guests forgetting about the hologram.
"I want to place an order for one of those TVs. Damn, look at the size of that thing. Life sized!"
"Nyet, We have better in Moskva."
"Your majesties, I present the Space Shuttle Crewmembers that disembarked."
"We welcome you all to Mother Ship One. I hope your tour has been productive." I said
"Why yes Ma'am, I'm the Commander of the mission, United States Navy Commander Jake Filipowski. We appreciate the hospitality of this magnificent craft." The Mission Commander said while introducing the rest of the crewmembers.
We all made our introductions to the crew. We also explained to them the problems with their craft and why it was unsafe to fly it. They all agreed that safety of the ship and crew was a priority. We made arrangements for the Commander to contact NASA and the space station to tell everyone, all was well and they were not being held incommunicado on Mother Ship One. We allowed the pictures they took to be sent to NASA and Moscow.
While the Commander was gone with Paul, Eve called some of the security personnel to take the crewmembers to quarters. I could see that they all needed to relax before the meal that Carmen was preparing.
Gordon and I spoke to each other in reference to the shuttle and how to get back to Earth. We had a slight problem or so we thought.
"Computer, find the Captains and Lady Amanda. Have them come to our stateroom."
"Done. They are enroute."
After several minutes of waiting my parents and Amanda walked into our Stateroom. When they sat, I began.
"We have a slight problem called the Space Shuttle and one crewmember of the space station."
"We know about the Shuttle, it's being repaired. It will be placed into one of our Cargo Shuttles and delivered to Florida," my father said smiling.
"I suggest that the Space Shuttle not leave until we are ready to leave for New York City. Also have the technicians upgrade what they can for NASA. Everything of each modification must be documented for them. Their Commander is talking to NASA now on a secure circuit.
One of those Astronauts has to go back to the Space Station, as a gesture of goodwill I suggest we upgrade the Space Station too but at a later time."
"The Astronaut can be taken back by a Scout without a problem. The upgrades and repairs will take about forty-eight hours. Sure we can do the space station after your visit or send a team there now," mother said.
The annunciator announced we had visitors. The door opened to allow Eve and Jake Filipowski into the suite.
When all were introduced, the Naval Commander saluted those introduced and then shook their hands.
"Commander we have some good news and some bad news for you." I said
"I know we are all prisoners or hostages." He said angrily almost spitting the words out.
"No, No, on the contrary Commander. Your Space Shuttle is being repaired as we speak. The systems will be upgraded also. We will transport the crew and the shuttle back to Florida before we address the UN General Assembly. It will be flown inside one of our transport cargo craft.
The one astronaut from the space station will be returned to it to complete their mission. Is that equitable?" I said
"Why yes, yes it is. Frankly I didn't know what to expect. My bosses just ripped me a new, pardon the expression………"
"A new asshole?" Gordon said.
"Wait a minute here. How do you know that expression?" Jake said suspiciously.
"I think you better have a seat, Commander. We have a story to tell you." Gordon said before going into great detail of our homeworld and the destruction of it. The Commander was told everything except for a few things like me being a male for over fifty years and Gordon having our baby.
"You're saying that there are over a hundred ships like this hidden in various parts of this Solar System?
Your people have been living and visiting earth for over a century. Queen Arlene and King Gordon were born in California.
“With the wars, disease, and famines that we've had, why in the world didn't you help?" Jake said.
"We have a policy of non-interference with any species. We have been mostly a non-aggressive people except when threatened.” I said.
“Our Queen and King have decided that you must know of the impending danger you face. The Krea'ckh are a ruthless species. They have no scruples in destroying worlds.
You have been developing your own science and technology by yourselves, perhaps at times with a nudge from us in the right direction. Every invention was by the original inventor and not by us.
