The drones ‘salvaging’ around Star Dancer, gradually converged on the source of the power reading Star had recorded earlier. They approached slowly, clearly scanning for certain minerals. Occasionally one would stop, and ‘extract’ something by cutting the rock apart. Two of them converged on the probe, and it did it’s best to look like a rock. It felt like a rock, it acted like a rock, but unfortunately it didn’t register the same minerals as a rock. It didn’t have time to record its discovery before the laser that destroyed the shielding around its power unit, caused it to explode. The probes however, did report their findings before they were blown apart in the small fusion explosion.

Ian sat with his head in his hands, as Star finished her report of the incident. The enemy had a probe watching Star since it crashed here 2500 years ago. That it was of a type she had never seen before held no comfort for Ian. How much had it reported? How much had it seen? The fact that they were still alive seemed to indicate that all the precautions had paid off, and the ship was in no immediate danger. However, to assume that was to invite destruction, and the loss of Earth.

He needed 120 fighter pilots, 18 frigate crew, and a couple of hundred miscellaneous ships crew; all combat ready, and he need them today. A couple more ships like Star would help too, he thought.

He decided it was time to tell the residents of Talos the truth, all of it. He should tell them in person, but there were simply too many of them. He thought that perhaps he could record a video giving the history, and the current situation, and let Bill go over it, and format it for replay on the computers that Saunders was building. Well, in any case, having a video available would help. He set his door to ‘do not distrub’ and set to work recording the story of Talos.

It was almost suppertime when he finished. He had made the video, he replayed it, and re-recorded it until he got it right. He would get a few opinions on it, Sara Belden, Janet, and Elias. He saved it, and unlocked his door. He stepped out on the bridge, to see the current watch crewman, but no Jenny.

“Ensign, where is Commander Williams?” He asked.

“She left at shift change, sir. About an hour ago.” He said.

“Thank you. Ensign, keep a sharp eye out from now on. I want to be informed of anything out of the ordinary, even if you think you may have imagined it.” Ian told him.

The ensign nodded his head once, “Right away, sir.”

“That goes for you’re relief as well, no matter what time it is, you call me.” Ian said.

The ensign wrote the instruction down in his log book. “Anything else, sir?”

“Have a quiet evening, ensign.” Ian said.

“You too, sir.” He said.

Ian turned and left the bridge, heading for his quarters. When he got there, he found Beth and Jenny had company for supper, Sara and Tara Belden.

“Where’s Luke?” Ian asked.

“He’s in medbay,” Beth said, “The first potion of his treatment is best undergone unconscious. He should be though this phase by tomorrow night. So I invited Sara and Tara to join us.” She finished.

Ian smiled tiredly, “Good, I wanted to ask a favor of Sara anyway.”

“Ian, you know the rules; No business at the table, now get over here so we can eat.” Beth said.

Ian chuckled as he walked over to the table, and sat next to Jenny. She smiled at him, and he kissed her on the cheek. Beth brought the dishes to the table; Chicken fettuccini with white sauce and garlic bread. It smelled wonderful. “One nice thing about using a replicator to cook; you can fix anything you want, and still control the calories, and fat.” Beth said.

They all dug in, Ian had missed lunch, so he was extra hungry this evening. He hadn’t felt much like eating at noon anyway. Going over the history, and the story of the Talosians had relaxed him. It bolstered his strength, and reminded him of the importance of what they were trying to accomplish.

“I didn’t get a chance to thank you for the tour of this beautiful ship earlier, Ian.” Sara said.

“You’re very welcome, Sara. I never thanked you for trusting me, either. I know you really didn’t believe me until we got aboard the shuttle to get here. Thanks for not freaking out on me.” Ian said.

“You sure had that one pegged. Luke and I were ready to get in the car, and just take off. I’m glad we decided to see what was really going on. This is all pretty fantastic, but I couldn’t help but notice this is a warship. I know you told us about the Enemy, and the crash and all, but it still just doesn’t seem real. Could you tell me more about the people, and the war that brought Star to the moon?” She asked.

Ian chuckled, “That was the favor I was going to ask you. I made a video to show the other residents of Talos. I would like your opinion of it. I’ll tell you more about it later, I may have married her, but she’s still my mother.” He chuckled, indicating Beth, who smiled back at him.

“I still have a hard time with that.” Sara said. “I just don’t understand how you could…with a family member.”

Beth answered this time, “Actually Sara, it’s a matter of genetics. I did check, since Cindy and I are both pregnant, it’s like we aren’t even related. I mean there are similarities, but that can be said of a lot of people.”

“I understand that part, it’s just, I mean, I’ve grown up being told that was wrong. I’ve never been interested in any of my family, so I guess that might be some of it.” She shrugged.

“Does it bother you?” Beth asked softly.

“Kinda, but not really. I mean, I know it’s a prejudice, so I’m fighting it. It’s harder learning that my daughter likes girls.” She said, and smiled at Tara. “But that I can understand easier.”

“Not ‘girls’ mom, just Stephanie.” Tara said. Sara shook her head, and chuckled.

They finished Supper, chatting about relationships, and bisexuality. Sara learned a lot, and looked thoughtful. Jenny and Tara cleared the dishes, Beth, Sara, and Ian sat in the living room to chat.

“Now, what about this video, Ian?” Sara asked.

“As I said, I would like your opinion on it, it should answer those questions about the history, and what we are currently up against, at least what we could be up against. Since we have no way to get current information on the Enemy, we have to rely on what we already know, and most of that is 2500 years old. Earlier today, Star destroyed a probe that was, as near as we can tell, sent through the wormhole the Star came through when she crashed here. I have to assume that it has been reporting everything even though no transmissions have been detected. I don’t want to assume that the Enemy isn’t coming, I’d rather be prepared, and not have the Enemy show up, then to have the Enemy show up, with nothing and no one to stop them.” Ian said.

“But why tell our people? I’d think you would want to keep this secret, or people are going to panic.” Sara said.

“I’m only going to tell our people, because I may need them sooner then I thought. This ship is our only means of defense against them. It will be ready to lift off the moon soon, and we are still critically short on crew. Not to mention, the only fighter pilots we have, are a bunch of kids that still think it’s just a cool game. We’re going to need trained pilots, and crew that can respond if we need them. If nothing else, I need the people of Talos to support us, to do that, they need to know what they are a part of, they deserve that. I don’t want to scare people, so I’m going to have Bill put some subliminals in it. To keep them calm, and to ensure they know this is a true message, nothing else.” Ian said.

“Okay, I’ll take a look at it, I am really curious.” She said. “Besides, I know the people down there, I think they could handle it with out the subliminals to calm them, but it never hurts to be safe. But what are you going to do if someone wants out after you tell them?” Sara asked.

Ian chuckled, “I’ll make them promise to keep it a secret.”

She snorted, “That’s trusting. Hell if it were me, I’d be on the phone to a newspaper as soon as I got to a phone, promise or not!”

Ian smiled, “There is one other thing we haven’t told you about some of the people with Talosian DNA. Some of us have special abilities; ESP and the like. I have the ability to command someone to do something, and they will do it.” Ian said.

“I’ve never believed in that stuff, every reported case has been proved a hoax.” She said.

“So, you don’t think I can tell you to do something you really wouldn’t do, and you’d do it?” He asked.

“No, I don’t. Though I probably should, I have a hard time accepting anything like that.” Sara said.

Jenny and Tara had finished with the dishes, and were sitting on the sofa next to Sara, listening.

Ian consentrated, and said; “Sara: Get on your knees in front of your daughter, undo her pants, pull them down and lick her pussy.”

A shocked look crossed her face, as she started moving. She got on her knees, and reached up undid her daughters pants and grasped the waist to pull them down.

“Sara: Stop” Ian said.

The bewildered woman stopped, and jerked her hands back. She looked up at her smiling daughter, “Honey, I’m so sorry, I don’t know what happened, I couldn’t stop. Please know I would never do anything to hurt you.”

Tara bent forward, and hugged her mom, “I know mom, and so does Ian, that’s why he stopped you before you actually did something.” She said, and re-fastened her pants.

Sara sat back down, she was a bit shaky. She looked at Ian, “I think I can see why you chose to keep that secret.”

“Sorry, but that was the only thing I could think of on short notice, that I knew beyond a doubt that you would never do, especially in front of us.” Ian said.

She held up her hands, “Hey, I’m convinced. So if anyone wants to leave after disclosure, then you will simply tell them not to talk to anyone about it. That answers that question.”

“One other thing I wanted to ask you; when does Tara turn 16?” Ian asked.

“In about 4 months. I think I know your next question; can she stay here with her friends, and become a pilot? I’m thinking about it. I really need to talk it over with Luke once he gets through this. We’ll give you a decision before we leave.” Sara said.

They chatted some more, it was getting late, so Sara and Tara left, Ian and crew went to bed. He went to sleep thinking that so many things had to go right, and what would happen if they didn’t.

Over the next few weeks, the crew was pretty busy. Janet had returned to the surface, she had the two new recruiters come to Talos, and she taught them. She also got through the interviews of the new construction teams. Construction got into high gear after that, and the residences were progressing quickly. Elias also had a crew sent to start the new power station, and waste plant. The eggheads had made one last change to the design of the power plant to include the waste handling. Some of the collected sunlight would be used to burn the sewage, and most of the garbage. Ian didn’t understand most of it, but they were pretty excited about it.

Sara and Luke decided to let Tara stay, though she was Beth’s responsibility until she turned 16, she was over-joyed. Ian gave Luke the position of operations manager for the corporation. He was in charge of the business side of things.

Kyle, Stephanie, and Tara all shortly became qualified on the hornets. The three of them talked it over, and asked to be trained on the frigates as well. Ian approved their request, with the stipulation that until they got more pilots on board, they had to be available to fly the smaller craft. Tara had become wingman for one of the engineer’s kids. Ian had enough for a full wing on board.

Repairs to Star Dancer had been finished, and the drones were now re-enforcing different parts to help withstand the stresses of a lift off that Star had never been designed to handle to begin with. They reported to Ian that they could lift in about a month.

People started to arrive from the surface; a full wing of fighter pilots, both ex air force, and ex navy. Ian was also getting more crew; gunners and weapons specialists, two more doctors, and bunch of nurses. Though still not at full strength, they were growing rapidly, at this rate, the crew would be at a hundred percent in a couple of months. Julie was very busy, and had also gotten an assistant to help her settle all the families, and make sure everything was in place for them.

Elias reported to Ian that people had begun to notice that a lot of people were arriving, but no one was staying. Rumors had started to fly about underground facilities, and secret government cover-ups. He also reported that the seal team had chased off a few groups of people, before the ‘fence’ had been completed. Now they only went out to watch as the people approached the line of posts, if the people approaching had no weapons, the field stayed down, and the seals chased them off, but if they did, it was energized. So far, no one had bounced off the wall.

Ty reported that it was only a matter of time before some one showed up with guns, he had a ‘gut feeling’. Ian was inclined to trust Ty’s gut feeling, and wished him good luck.

Elias asked Ian if maybe it wasn’t time to tell the people the truth. Ian thought it might be, he checked with Bill, and Ensign Saunders, they both said they were ready. Ian gave the order. Star grabbed the new network, and made the announcement; everyone acknowledged that they would be ready that evening after work.

To take his mind off the evening, Ian ordered the creation of a small base here on the moon. He wanted a small craft repair and manufacturing facility, and deep in a shielded bunker, a huge computer core. He told star to ‘back up the planet’ His intention was to create a storehouse of the culture and knowledge of his planet. The facility would be automated, so Ian didn’t have to worry about staffing it. The design, and debate over the facility had taken most of the afternoon. Over the course of the last few weeks Ian had also spoken to all the department heads about Talena. They had all agreed. Ian ordered Cindy and Talena to come home. The department heads would hold the meeting the next day when Talena was present, and before the first graduation ceremony for the pilots on Alpha deck.

Finally the time for the broadcast arrived, Ian and his wives were in his ready room to watch as well. As the screen faded, and the first images came up Ian realized this wasn’t the video he had recorded…

A thriving civilization had grown on the forth world of a binary star system that came to be called Talos. The people had grown quickly and made progress in the sciences. Though war was known to them, it was a rare thing, people usually talked problems through to resolution. However, they thought that they might run into a hostile race in their explorations of space, so they developed powerful weapons for their star ships, and smaller fighter craft.

In their 25^th century of recorded history, shortly after they attained safe space flight, and had started a colony, another race of beings made contact with them. They professed peace, and free trade between their peoples. The Talosians embraced the idea, and began negotiations with the new race for fossil fuels, and ores that the Talosians no longer used, since developing replicator technology. The alien race was fascinated with that technology, and tried to add it to the list of trade items. The Talosians thought about it, but eventually refused to surrender the information, rumors had begun to get to the ruling counsel of raids on small populations, the people simply disappearing, with no one left to say what had happened. The counsel had also heard about alien ships draining fresh water reservoirs.

They immediately launched an investigation, to gather proof. Once they had sufficient proof, they confronted the aliens. The response was quick, and explained everything. The aliens had soldiers attack and kill the counsel. One of the counselors had a communication channel open to a captain of one of the star ships orbiting the planet when the attack came. That captain then attacked the nearest alien vessel. The following battle was long, and bloody. The Talosians lost two star ships, but eventually drove their new enemy from their solar system.

A new counsel was elected, and the first order of business was to decide that a state of war existed between the alien race, and themselves.

After that, the whole of the Talosian race got behind the effort to defend themselves against a numerically superior force. That information had come with the knowledge that three other races were also fighting this alien species. No one ever found out what they called themselves. Captured soldiers were very rare, since they would fight to the point that they had to be destroyed. It was quickly learned from the ones that they did manage to capture that they could will themselves to death.

The information about the other races came from a captured enemy freighter hauling slaves. The terms used by these other races referred to the enemy as either the evil ones, or the evil empire. The loss of an entire colony and the evidence left behind told the Talosians that the Enemy had star ships much more powerful then they had ever seen before.

They quickly commissioned a new class of ship; a dreadnaught class. These new ships would carry the most powerful weapons ever developed, the best fighters, and pilots, and had all the latest technological advances built into them. Though still far from the size and raw fire power of the Enemy super ships, it was hoped these elite ships had the ability to defend the remaining population from the Enemy. Unlike the smaller more common ships of the fleet, these big ships had only one purpose; war.

Ten of the great ships had been built, and commissioned. Enemy attempts to capture the smaller ships had led the designers to put one last safeguard in place. Only the selected and approved captains could command the great vessels. DNA imprinting on the command functions made sure that any attempt to capture one of these vessels would destroy it.

The fourth ship to be commissioned was named Olympus, after the destroyed mountain city the first counsel had held the meeting with the Enemy. It had gone forth, hunting for its prey.

Two years after being commissioned, a battle had been fought in which two of the new ships had been destroyed by a fleet of enemy super ships. Before they were destroyed however, they got word out; the Enemy fleet was headed for Talos.

The Olympus was under the command of a man named Zeus. He was a good commander, and since taking command, his crew had come to love him. He had used every trick he could think of to keep his people alive and still destroy as many of the enemy as possible. He became known for his unorthodox way of battle.

Then came the message of the Enemy’s destruction of two of his sister ships, and their projected destination, he laid a coarse, Talos was three days away at maximum speed.

Ian’s voice was narrating this tale, but the pictures had come from Star’s memory. He could remember it as well, even though he wasn’t there, his mind still contained the memory of that battle. Tears formed in his eyes, as he watch what was about to happen to his ship.

Captain Zeus called general quarters ten minutes before realspace interface in the Talosian system. He wanted everyone to have plenty of time to get ready for whatever they might find.

Ten seconds before interface, he called yellow alert. Pilots to the fighters. Launching during interface would destroy the smaller craft.

He had chosen to enter the system at near light speed, and far enough out that he wouldn’t collide with any other ships that might be coming in.

The ship shook as it re-entered realspace. However it shuddered more as soon as interface was complete as the mines surrounding it began to detonate. The Enemy had prepared for this, his heart sank as he realized they might be to late.

He opened his mouth to launch his fighters and arm the missile batterys, when Olympus was rocked by a huge explosion near the rear of the great ship.

Ian closed his eyes, the tears ran freely down his cheeks as the real voices of the bridge crew took over the narration.

“Hull breach in main engineering! Reactor going critical!”

“Sir! Spatial anomaly detected off the stern! We’re too close! A wormhole is forming! We’re being pulled in!”

All was quiet as the screen showed an external view of the Olympus being pulled into a small wormhole. An explosion at the rear of the ship told the damage done to the power systems just before it disappeared into the swirling mass of plasma.

The screen faded to blackness as Ian’s voice once again picked up the narration.

He told of the crash onto an airless body in a remote system. He told of the death of 1092 members of the crew of the great ship, and the almost total destruction. The Olympus’ A.I. associate, had gotten it shut down at the last minute, avoiding total destruction.

Captain Zeus took stock of the situation. Communications were out with Talosian command. Probably due to the fact that they were so far from home. Star got the drones started repairing the ship, but reported that the radiation had contaminated almost two thirds of the ship, and it would take a long time to get it capable of sustaining life. More time then they had. It was shortly after that, Star received the distress call from Talos control.

The screen showed a replay of the message received from Talos. It showed the huge shockwave of superheated plasma from the closer of the two suns. The view was abruptly shut off, as the wave consumed the craft reporting it, but not before it showed the destruction of the planet. The Talosian people were gone. The human race lost the war.

Zeus watched the fall of his people. He had failed them. They were all dead. Suicide was an accepted part of Talosian culture, after the loss of a life mate, or family. Zeus began considering it. He had always been a fighter, he just couldn’t get past the feeling he wasn’t done yet. He ordered Olympus to send a probe to the near by planet who’s moon they had crashed on. He put off responding to the requests of the crew to end it. He waited for the report on the planet.

It was discovered this planet was not only inhabited, but had humans on it. They weren’t Talosian, but close enough. He conceived a plan, and talked to his crew about it. Half volunteered to go along with his plan, but the other half still wanted to end their lives. He granted their requests with one exception. A young girl who had lost everyone she had ever loved. She was only 14, and to young to legally make the decision to end her life. He talked her into going into cryo-sleep to help the new captain his plan worked, if it didn’t work it wouldn’t matter she would die anyway. The screen showed Zeus talking to Talena. She agreed, Zeus had begun the evacuation to the planet. The remaining crew took the pills, and went to sleep. Zues left orders for the drones to pick up the bodies, and dispose of them after everyone had left the ship. He locked himself in his ready room and gave some very special instructions to the computers. He grabbed his bag, and left his ship.

Olympus escorted Talena to the facility, and put her in one of the chambers. Once that was done, The A.I. set about the business of repairing and decontaminating the ship. Once done with that, it was free to monitor the progress of the planet. When the Talosain DNA re-asserted it’s self, he would bring the new captain and crew aboard, and teach them all they would need to know.

2436 years later, it detected the Captains DNA sequence in a young male, and fulfilled the last orders of its long dead Captain.

The screen then came back to the picture of Ian wearing his uniform sitting in the captains’ chair in his ready room. He finished explaining what has been happening since he took command and re-commissioned Olympus into Star Dancer.

“I would like to thank you all for watching this evening, and I would like to assure you that every word I’ve said tonight is the complete and utter truth. I would have told you sooner, but we needed to get to know you better. There is no government involvement, and we want to keep it that way. I’ll try to answer all the questions you’ve probably got. Those, you can email to me. However if you want to leave us, you are free to do so. I only ask that I speak with you briefly before you do leave. Thank you again for your time. Good night.” His smiling image faded from view.

“That was really good.” Jenny said, still looking at the now blank screen.

“Yes it was. Perhaps a little too good. I hope we didn’t scare them.” Beth said, as she turned to see the tears rolling down Ian’s face. “Honey! Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I am. It’s just that I can remember those things like they happened to me, and it hurt. I’ll be alright.” Ian said, wiping his face.

“Well, it’s past supper time, and almost bed time. Let’s all grab a quick bite to eat, and get to bed.” Beth said.

Ian nodded, and Jenny took his hand and they walked back to their quarters. They ate a light meal, and cuddled together in bed before sleep over took them.

Ian woke to 4 beautiful naked women sleeping with him in the same bed. He briefly wondered how he got so lucky to have these women love each other, and include him in their love.

The pregnancies of three of them made for an interesting time when trying to cuddle. Cindy’s belly was growing the fastest, but she had twins growing inside her. Ian smiled; their family was going to grow rather quickly in a few short months. He walked to the bathroom, and got in the shower. Talena was going to be joining his family ,this time as a wife. She wanted to have a child as well, but Beth had talked her into waiting. At 4’10’ and 89 lbs. She was a bit small to be having a baby. She would also officially become a pilot today since she would now be deemed old enough to be responsible for her own actions. He was looking forward to the look on her face, when the counsel told her of their decision.

He was lost in thought, and didn’t hear the shower room door open, so he was a bit surprised to feel soft hands come around his waist, and slide up to caress his chest. He turned, and looked down into Talena’s light blue eyes, and smiled.

“Good morning, kitten.” He said, and bent down to kiss her forehead.

“Good morning, lover. Cindy will be along shortly, we need to help her shower, she sometimes has a hard time in here. Personally, I think it’s just an excuse to get pampered, but its fun anyway. Then we get to do Beth and Jenny.” She grinned up at him, “I missed you.”

He held her to him; she laid her head against his chest. “I missed you too.”

Cindy and Jenny came in, holding hands, and got in the shower.

“I need to get showered and get to the bridge. Ensign Tolert’s wife went into labor about 15 minutes ago, and there’s no one to relieve Ensign Smith. Beth has already left for medbay.” Jenny said smiling.

“Wow, really? I’ll help you wash then, and go to medbay too. I think the Captain should be present for the first birth aboard, don’t you?” Ian grinned back at her, and began to wash her.

“Don’t you dare spend too much time on my pussy! I’m horny enough now. I never thought being pregnant would be a turn on.” Jenny said.

“Tell me about it!” Cindy said. “I thought I’d wear poor Talena out!”

“Not a chance, lover! But at this rate our kids are gonna be born horny!” Talena said.

Everyone chuckled over that, and Cindy hugged Talena, giving her a kiss on the lips. They finished quickly and got dressed, Jenny left for the bridge, and Ian, Cindy and Talena left for medbay.

The labor was quick, and the happy parents named the new baby boy Michael Ian Tolert. They even let Ian hold his little namesake. He didn’t know the Tolert’s very well, and wondered at the choice of names, he asked the Ensign about that.

“Well sir, we did it out of respect for you, and Kelly’s grandfather. His name was also Ian.” He said.

Ian smiled, thanked both of them, gave Kelly a hug, and shook Ensign Tolert’s hand.

“Congratulations, both of you. He’s a beautiful baby.” Ian said, as his comm. beeped.

He stepped away from the new family, and answered the call, “Captain here.”

Jenny’s voice answered him. “Sir, the Chiefs are gathering in the meeting room. I thought you might need a reminder.”

Ian chuckled, he had forgotten that the meeting was to be first thing this morning.

“Can you get someone to stay on the bridge for you?” Ian asked.

“Yes, sir. He’s on his way.” She said.

“Well then, so am I. I’ll bring Talena and Cindy.” Ian said. “Captain out.” He walked over to the two women, and told them they needed to go. They looked at him funny, but said good bye to the new family. Beth did as well, one of the other doctors had actually delivered the baby, but as chief medical officer, she thought she should be there.

“Where are we going?” Cindy asked.

Ian smiled at her, “Beth and I have a command staff meeting.”

“Why do we need to go? I wanted to find Kyle and Steph, to see how they’re doing.” She asked. Talena didn’t say anything, but it was clear she wanted to know as well.

“We may need to call you in to testify. There is a personel action to be decided this morning, that’s why I called you back from Talos.” Ian said.

“Oh God, who’s in trouble? I didn’t even know someone was.” Cindy began to panic.

“Relax, Cindy. Not all personel actions are bad. Just wait, and listen. You’ll find out what’s going on soon enough.” Ian said. Beth was having a hard time not laughing.

They arrived at the meeting room, Ian and Beth took their places, Cindy and Talena sat in spectator chairs. Elias, Ty, and Luke were present via monitors.

“I would like to thank you all for coming this morning. I would like to open the meeting this morning with the announcement of the birth of the first baby born on this ship in 2500 years. Please welcome to the crew Michael Ian Tolert.” Ian clapped with the rest of the department chiefs.

“For our next order of business, and the main reason for this meeting, I will step down, and allow Flight to oversee these proceedings. I shall also abstain from voting. Flight?” Ian said, and stepped to the spectator chairs, as did Beth and Jenny. They all sat next to Cindy and Talena.

The Flight Controller stood, and cleared his throat. “Would Cadet Talena Williams please stand and come forward?”

Talena looked terrified, as she stood, and walked before the assembled staff of the ship. It was clear she had no idea why they would be calling her.

“Cadet, we had been petitioned on your behalf by the captain and seconded by the chief medical officer to proclaim you an adult. It is for this reason you have been called before us today. Since you are unaware of the petition, we first need to ask you if this is what you want?”

Talena closed her eyes, and bowed her head. The counsel gave her a moment to compose her thoughts. She raised her head, and looked him in the eye, “Sir, yes it is my wish.” She said calmly.

John looked at the calm but scared girl; no she was defiantly a woman. Albeit a small one, she was showing a lot of maturity right now, it made him feel much better about his decision. “Very well, over the past few weeks we have heard testimony to your maturity, and intelligence, although we feel your childhood has been taken from you, we have considered this request, and will now put it to a vote. Does anyone have any questions for the petitioner?” John asked. When no one stood, he said, “Very well, now then, We are voting on the emancipation of Talena Williams. Aye votes for, and Nay against. Due to the nature of this action, only Star will know the actual count. She will inform us of the decision. Please cast your votes now.” He said and sat, to cast his own vote.

Talena stood, her head held up proudly, and met the gaze of any who were looking at her. Ian felt her anxiety, but if this went favorably for her, she would be joining the assembly on alpha deck afterward.

About a minute later, but seemed much longer, the Flight officer again stood. “Talena Williams, it is the decision of this counsel that from this day forward, you are an adult in the eyes of the law. You are free to marry, as well as serve in the military. Since you are a Cadet, your service has already begun. Congratulations Talena, you are excused.” He finished, smiling at the radiant look on her young face.

“Thank you, Sirs.” She said, and returned to her seat next to Cindy. She got hugs from everyone. Ian stood and returned to his chair, however before he sat down he looked at each of the assembled department heads. “Is there any other business we need to consider?” He asked. No one said anything, so he continued. “Good, we have a celebration to attend. I’ll see you in Alpha bay shortly. This counsel is in recess.” Ian said. Everyone stood, and walked over to give Talena a hug or shake her hand.

Ian watched the beaming little woman accept congratulations from the Chiefs, and stepped up to her. He gave her a big hug, and kissed her on her forehead.

“You guys are sneaky! I had no idea you were doing this for me. Gods! I love you all so much!” Tears were running from her eyes now, but she was still smiling.

Ian took a step back, and tried to compose himself. Once done he said; “Cadets! You have thirty minutes to get ready for your graduation in Alpha bay. I will delay it that long, if either of you are late, you’ll have to wait for the next class to graduate. Dismissed!” He said, and grinned as Talena tried to help a very awkward Cindy run for their quarters, finally settling on a brisk walk.

Jenny was chuckling as she excused herself to return to the bridge. Ian took Beth’s hand and they slowly began walking to the maglev.

“You still wonder why we love you so much?” She asked him.

He looked at her, still smiling. “I wonder that everyday. I don’t deserve you four, but I’m happy you chose me.” He said.

She softly chuckled, and shook her head, “Ian I have watched you grow into a man, I watched you mature, and become the man that you are. Though I didn’t let myself feel it, I feel in love with you a long time ago. I knew who you were, and who you would become. Cindy saw it as well, but had a hard time, there were many times she just cried that she could never have you. She has loved you for years as well, she kept measuring her boyfriends against you, and none of them ever made the cut. Jenny has loved you since the second grade. Now Talena has also seen in you what we have. You’re a kind, gentle lover, and a fair and honest person. We also saw those qualities in each of ourselves, but I can’t help but wonder if that isn’t because of you too. What you’ve done for Talena today is just one small example of how sweet you are.” She said.

Ian helped her into the maglev and directed it to Alpha bay. “Mom, you can tell me all you want, but it still doesn’t change what I feel. I watched the four of you sleep this morning, when I got up. The feelings of love you all give me are sometimes overwhelming.” Ian said.

“Do you realize you are doing that more and more often?” Beth said.

Ian looked puzzled, “Doing what? Watching you guys sleep?”

She shook her head, “No, you’re calling me ‘Mom’. I don’t mind, but it shows that you are starting to accept this relationship for what it really is.”

“Don’t you think I better? After all, in a little over three months, I’m going to be a Daddy, and you’re the Mommy.” Ian said to her.

She smiled at him, her love for him clear on her face. “And, in 15 years or so, you can get her pregnant too!” She quipped.

Ian’s mouth opened, “Mother! Jees! Don’t you think we should let her decide that?”

She was chuckling as they arrived at the corridor to Alpha Bay, “Damn you’re still fun to tease.”

As they entered the Bay someone shouted, “Captain on deck!” Everyone in the big bay came to attention.

Ian smiled, “As you were!” He called out, and everyone resumed what they had been doing. He led Beth over to the refreshment table that had been set up, the rest of the staff seemed to be gathered around there.

The Flight officer and a Cadet walked up to them, “Sir, I would like to introduce Cadet Ron Allison, call sign ‘Cadisfly’. He’s been acting flight leader for this class. Cadet, this is Captain Ian Williams, his wife, and Chief Medical Officer Beth Williams.”

The Cadet Came to attention, and saluted them. “Sir, Ma’am, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He said.

“The honor is ours Cadet, Congratulations on your graduation.” Ian said returning the salute, and shaking the young man’s hand.

“Sir, speaking of honor, we, uh, the class that is, feel that Cadets Talena and Cindy Williams should be first to graduate sir. Talena’s waited long enough, and Cindy might not want to stand that long, besides they’re wing mates.” He said.

Ian smiled, “Very well, Cadet. I’ll call them first. Thank you for considering that, and giving up your place to them.”

The Cadet smiled, “It’s only right sir. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll go tell the rest of the flight.”

Ian nodded; the young man came to attention, saluted and walked quickly away as soon as Ian returned the salute.

“John, I gave Talena and Cindy about another 20 minutes or so to get ready, if I know them though, they should walk through the door any minute.” Ian said.

“That’s okay, we’re actually awaiting a shuttle from the planet as well. Some of the parents that didn’t make the shuttle last night.” He explained. “It’s due in about ten minutes.”

They all chatted, and Cadets brought their parents or spouses to meet Ian, and John. John explained that last nights broadcast had been seen shipwide, as well as at Talos. It had also been played aboard the incoming shuttles. Everyone now knew the story; whole story, Ian dreaded getting back to his ready room, and to his email.

His mind was pulled back to the business at hand, by the entrance of Cindy and Talena. The flight gathered around the two startled girls, and congratulated them. They were led to the first two chairs of the flight, and sat. The rest of the flight all tried to sit with them, but the entrance of the last shuttle load of parents drew most of the group away. Ian had John let them mingle for a little while longer, enjoying the atmosphere of the gathering. Finally he nodded to John, and they began the ceremony.

John took the podium first, and asked everyone to please take their seats. “As Flight Officer aboard this ship, it has been my duty to oversee the training of new pilots. My assistants and I have followed each of these Cadets through their studies. On behalf of my staff, I am pleased to present to you the first graduating class of the Star Dancers Flight program.” John paused as the assembled audience applauded. He stepped back a bit, and also clapped his hands, smiling as well. It was clear he was proud of his students.

As the applause began to die down, he stepped forward again, “It is also my pleasure to introduce to you, the Captain, and Commanding officer of the F.S.S. Star Dancer, Ian Williams.” He stepped back again to the applause, as Ian stepped up to the podium, John saluted him. Ian returned the salute, then, shook his hand. John stepped back and to the right. Star was in uniform, behind to Ian’s left. Ian turned to the crowd.

“I welcome you all here today, to witness this moment. To some, it is simply the end of one phase of their lives, and the beginning of the next. To others it is a ceremony that marks their dedication to the preservation of Earth, and to the human race as a whole. I know that soon, I may have to order these new pilots to get into their craft, launch into the airless void, to destroy an attacking force. I also know that some of them may not return. I want you to know, that at no time will I order you into a place that you have no chance of coming back. No member of this crew will ever abandon a single person. The United States Marines have a tradition that no one gets left behind. I make that promise to you as well.

For at least one person here today, this ceremony stands for a personal achievement. The culmination of more years then any of us can imagine. The dedication and perseverance that prove she is indeed worthy of this honor. Would Lieutenant Talena Williams please approach.” He paused as Talena stood, and marched up to the podium. She stopped, saluted him, and stayed at attention.

“Lieutenant Williams, after 2437 years, I hear by promote you from Cadet to Lieutenant First class, and award you your full pilot wings. Congratulations Lt. Williams.” Ian pinned the rank, then the wings on her flight suit. He came to attention and saluted her. She returned the salute, they shook hands and she returned to her seat.

“The training that each cadet goes through, is assisted by their wingman. It is only proper that this final duty is also performed as a team. Lieutenant Cindy Williams, please approach.” Cindy stood and waddled, as close to a march as she could manage, up to Ian. Ian was smiling when she got to him.

“Lieutenant Williams, I hearby promote you from the rank of Cadet to Lieutenant first class, and award you your full pilots wings.” He repeated the process of pinning, and saluting. As Cindy returned to her seat, Ian continued. “I promoted those two over the rank of lieutenant second class, because they have spent the last couple of months training their fellow pilots at Talos, and for the work they have done both on board, and at Talos.” Ian said, and the crowd applauded the efforts of the two girls. Ian then continued on down the list of graduating Cadets. Once everyone had gotten their stars, Ian turned once again to the assembly. Ladies and Gentleman, may I present to you the members of Gold flight, first squadron.” Ian said, and stood back to add his applause to that of the standing crowd. Finally, Ian once again stepped forward, and came to attention. “Squadron! Dismissed!” He said, and stepped back.

John stepped up to the podium, and invited everyone to the refreshment tables. Ian and family mingled and chatted with the assembled people. Ian saw a notice that tours of the ship could be planned for today only through the liaison office. He thought that was a nice touch on Janet’s part. It would help these people to actually see the great ship, they would tell those at home about it.

Ian excused himself after about an hour, and went back to his ready room. Before he got into his email, he stopped to see Jenny. She was sitting in her chair, one of the bridge monitors was on the milling crowd in alpha bay.

“Nice speech, a bit morbid, but okay for your first time.” She said as he entered the bridge.

He smiled, “Actually, I was so worried about how people would react to the broadcast last night, I forgot to write one, so, I was winging it.” He grinned at her.

“You might like to know that you did pretty good for ‘winging it’. Ever single terminal at Talos was watching the ceremony.” She said.

“Huh? That was broadcast?” Ian asked.

Jenny nodded, “Janet put out an announcement last night about it being available to watch today. She said it should help with morale if those at Talos could see what was happening up here. So I approved it.” She grinned. “Since regular T.V. was also available, I thought we wouldn’t have that many watching, I guess I was wrong.”

Ian chuckled, “At least let me know when you’re going to televise me again please?”

Smiling, she said, “Why? You do better if you don’t know. By the way, you’ve got a message from Elias, he asked you be given it before you got into your email.” She said, and pressed a button on her console.

Elias smiling face appeared on the main screen. “Ian, my boy, that was one hell of a presentation last night. I know you’re probably worrying yourself sick about how many people want to leave, so I’ll answer that for you first: No one. Not one single request to leave, plenty of questions though. I’ve answered a good few, but some, I passed on to you. The parents of the kids Talena and Cindy were working with, all ganged up on me at once, wanting conformation of what they suspected; that the kids were actually in flight training. I told them yes, but since they were still so young, we wouldn’t consider them for combat until at least 16 years of age, and then only with parental consent. I was asked to pass on to you a formal request to return the kids flight instructors, so they can resume training. There was some initial fear, and resentment, but we talked it out as a group. They decided, unanimously, that the kids are free to fly when you need them, provided they are trained. I didn’t mention to them about the facilities underground here, but I think it might be good if these kids were stationed here.

The drones reported ‘task completion’ last night as well, which I take to mean the underground is complete. Ty said he would check it out later today. We’ll give you a call after he does.

I would also like to know, since the cat is out of the bag, can I use these construction drones? Damn things work like a whole crew of men, and can work in dangerous areas as well.

You’ve done a good job, Ian. The people here like you, and more importantly trust you. Even the new crews are behind you, so just relax. We all know what’s going on, and what you’re trying to do. Everyone here is proud to be a part of that. Let us know if you need anything.” His image faded.

Ian took a deep breath, and let it out slowly. Elias had answered his question for him. No one wanted to leave. Ian felt like a great weight had been lifted off him. He smiled at Jenny, who had been watching him the whole time.

“With that kind of support behind us, we’ll do a lot.” She said.

“Yes, yes we will. I just hope it’s enough.” Ian said, and turned to his ready room, and the waiting email.

Ian went through his email, and answered everyone. The last one he got too, was from an Andraya Stavros, a 5 year old. She asked:

“Captain Ian, does this mean we’re aliens?” The email was in the form of a short video, and the cute little girl had him laughing. He recorded a video to send back to her:

“Andraya; No honey, we’re not aliens. We just had some ancestors that weren’t born on earth is all. We’re all human.” Ian said, and sent it back to her.

He finished up the email, and realized the day was almost over. Time flies he thought, as he left his ready room. Ian was tired, he hadn’t done much, but it had been an eventful day.

He walked the short distance to his quarters, and found a small celebration going on. He smiled as he walked in. Kyle, Stephanie and Tara were there, as well as a couple of the other new pilots, and their parents. Talena and Cindy were laughing and smiling, Cindy sitting as comfortably as she could on one of the easy chairs. Everyone seemed to have a drink. Beth came up to him, kissed him on the lips, and brought him into the living room. She sat him down, kissed him again, and told him she would bring him a plate. He chatted with people for a bit, as he ate. When he finished his plate, he took it back to the replicator. An older woman was standing by it talking with Jenny, and another woman Ian didn’t recognize.

“Be damn nice to have one of these things at home.” She said to Ian.

“Yes it would, unfortunately, there is too much of a risk someone else would see it. Then we’d be in real trouble.” Ian said back to her.

“Don’t see the harm in that, after all it’s just a food unit anyway, right?” She asked.

Ian smiled, turned to the unit, “Computer, create a containment field around delivery area.” He saw the shimmer of light that told him it was there, then said, “Now, please make a class two nuclear bomb.”

He heard her sharp intake of breath, as the small device appeared in the niche. She backed away slightly, Ian smiled at her, “It’s ok, that thing could detonate in there and it still wouldn’t harm us. Computer; recover item.” Ian said, and the bomb faded from view. “Cancel containment field.” And the shimmer stopped as well. “You see ma’am, if we let this technology out, we’d be in for a whole bunch of trouble.” Ian said to her.

“That was a real bomb wasn’t it?” She had gone a bit pale.

“Computer one glass red wine, and one glass beer.” Ian ordered, “Yes ma’am, about 10 times the power used on Nagasaki at the end of the Second World War. This technology in the wrong hands could really hurt a lot of people, or ruin a nations’ economy.” He handed the wine to her, and took the beer himself. He normally didn’t drink, but tonight he felt like he needed it. “There are a lot of miracles on this ship, and every single one of them can be turned into a nightmare. I couldn’t let that happen.” He winked at her, “Could you?”

She took a drink of wine, “Captain, I think I finally understand a lot more. I only saw the good side of this. That’s a lot of responsibility you’ve taken on. I don’t envy you, but I’m glad you took it instead of someone else. I leaned on the tour this is purely a warship, I don’t want to breach security, but may I ask how much fire power this ship carries?”

Ian smiled at her sadly, “Sorry, I really can’t tell you that. Security and all that,” he smiled, “but we will protect Earth, that’s what the whole project at Talos is about after all.”

“Sorry, I’ve always been the curious sort. I understand that you’re going to offer classes to the adults at Talos as well?” She asked.

“Yes, we’ve gotten set up to use some of the Talosian information, to improve the way people learn. It’s not really Talosian technology, since it’s available on Earth, it’s simply no one ever thought to use it for this.” Ian said.

“Really? This advanced teaching method is available on Earth?” She said.

“Yep, in fact it has been used, for some rather underhanded and despicable acts. Since it has gotten so much bad publicity, we’re even a little leery that the people of Talos might think the wrong thing.” Ian said.

“Well, I don’t think they will, they trust you. Hell, even I trust you, and I don’t even know you that much.” She said.

“It uses a form of mild hypnosis, to allow the brain to absorb information at a faster rate. It requires visual as well as audio to work effectively, but it does work.” Ian said.

“I’ll defiantly have to see about that, it sounds a lot like brain washing to me.” She said.

Ian chuckled, “Have you ever bought one of the subliminal relaxation tapes?”

“Sure, I use them all the time. Why?” She asked.

“It’s the same thing really. By definition, even those tapes you buy are a form of brainwashing. This isn’t much different.” Ian said. “Tell you what, let your kids try it, and you keep an eye on them. Don’t look at the screen yourself, but see what happens to their grades. You should see a marked improvement in about three months. Sometimes it’s fast sometimes it’s slower, people are different after all. You should not notice much of a change in their behavior, except that they’ll seem more mature. It’s a scientifically proven fact that higher intelligence leads to maturity.” Ian said.

“Okay, I’ll try it. Shane graduated today, but I’ve still two at home, Carol, and Steve. Steve’s always had trouble with schoolwork, but Carol is a straight A student. Come to think about it, she does seem more mature then her older brother. I’ll try it.” She said.

“If you’ll excuse me, I think I better mingle a bit before one of my wives scalps me.” Ian said, winked at her shocked expression, and walked away.

As he walked his wrist unit beeped at him, he ducked into a bedroom, and answered the call; “Captain here.”

“Ian, it’s Elias, Ty’s with me. He just finished an inspection of the underground facility. Yeah, the drones are done. That place is huge! Repair hangars, Ion cannons, and missile launchers, a tram system that connects all of them, and twenty hornets, that look launch ready. It’s a hell of complex. There’s even housing down there! It’s like a small city! The only problem is it’s all dark, no power anywhere.”

“That’s because an Engineer is required to do the start up of the reactors. Drones can build it, but they can’t turn it on. I’ll find out if Saunders is qualified to do it, if not, I’ll get someone else down there.” Ian said.

“Okay, what about Talena and Cindy coming back down? I’ve been asked by a lot of the kids.” Elias asked.

“Well, Cindy’s getting pretty uncomfortable, so I think she’ll be staying here, besides, I’d like to be there when my babies are born. Since Talena is her wingman, I’ll leave it up to her, but I will be sending down one of John’s people to pick up the kids’ training. That way it’ll be official.” Ian said.

“Great! I’m sure the parents’ll be glad to hear that. Now if I could just figure out a way to use those drones in our above ground stuff we’d have it made.” He chuckled.

“Well, you can use them, but it’ll have to be discrete, and in such a way that it’ll look like your men did it. I’d probably only use them at night as well, just incase we’re being watched.” Ian said.

“Okay, thanks. The eggheads say we should be switching over to our power plant soon as well, since the better part of the other utilities are ran, we can all start moving into our new houses. That’s about all I have for you. Ty?” Elias said.

“Not much to report here, Captain, it’s still pretty quiet, however, some of the men have asked about getting some training, to help us incase we need it. I thought it was a good idea since most of them have a military background.” Ty said.

“That’s okay with me. You’re in charge of security down there, so do what you think is necessary. Just ask about the major stuff. Elias should start on you’re building as well, because once we get the underground started up, the shuttles will be landing there. We’ll need an easy access point.” Ian said.

Ty chuckled, “It’s already about half done. Elias was way ahead of you on that one, he was worried about were to house all the people coming in here. Once we get that thing powered up, they can stay down there.”

“Good, well, I better get back to the party. You two have a good evening, and let me know if anything comes up.” Ian said.

“We will. Tell Talena and Cindy congratulations from us as well.” Elias said.

“I will, Captain out.” Ian said, and returned to the party. Things were going well, now if the Enemy would just hold off a bit longer, they might actually stand a chance.

A long, long ways away, a huge being sat reading a production report for one of the mines he was responsible for. The High Counsel was displeased, and had ordered an investigation of the steady decline in production. The report he was reading was a preliminary report explaining the loss of production was due to the steady decline of slave labor. The humans were dying off faster then they were breeding. The report went on to note that continued exposure to the ore was to blame, as the males became sterile after a few cycles. The trickle of new slaves from the last human world was not making up the differences.

The being, who had held the title of Preator for the last three hundred cycles, was of the opinion that they should simply go and conquer this world. The high Counsel, however, did not agree. Such an action would draw the attention of the Alliance, and all would be lost. They did not yet posses enough ships to oppose their oldest foe. If the Alliance found out about the remaining force, they would be hunted down, and destroyed.

The Preator simply didn’t agree that sending one ship to that pitiful world, and taking over, would draw anyone’s attention except the humans, and they didn’t matter. It’s not like they could even defend themselves. Besides, weren’t they getting hydrocarbons from that planet already? Why not more slaves as well? Why not just go in, and take what we need and be done with it!

The Preator took a deep breath, and slowly let it out, getting angry would not help the situation. The High Counsel would just have to see that more slaves would be needed to produce the ore in the quantity needed.

The report was set aside and the Preator began its own report. It hadn’t gotten very far when the door signaled a request for admittance.

“Come!” It bellowed, it hated to be interrupted. An aide approached, head down as was proper, a message tube in it’s upper arms.

“Forgive me, my lord, but a message tube has arrived from the High Counsel with instructions to deliver it to you immediately.” It said.

“Leave it there, and go.” The Preator said, waving one of its huge arms at a corner of its desk.

The aide placed the tube reverently on the desk, and backed away, head still bowed, at the door it finally turned and left.

The Preator took the tube, opened it, and placed the crystal in the reader.

An image of the counsel appeared on the small screen, and slowly zoomed in on the central figure. “Greetings Preator, I trust this message finds you in good health. An anomaly has come to our attention. Our last two hydrocarbon shipments from the human world recorded the presence of a probe near their flight path leaving the planet. This probe is of a type used by the Talosian race, during the last war. Since our records show that not all Talosian Starships had been accounted for, you are hereby ordered to sector 18792, and investigate the existence of this probe. This mission has the highest priority, however you are not to allow your presence to become known, not even to our agents on the planet. You will leave at your earliest opportunity.” The message ended.

The Preator sat back, and thought; something has them worried, to expose a ship the size of his to possible observation by the Allience. It stood, cleared its desk, and moved down the long hallway to the command center of the huge ship. It would take a third of a cycle to get to Earth; they had better get started.

“Plot a course for sector 18792; the human world of Earth. Full stealth, and best possible speed.” It announced, and sat in the command chair.

It sat and watched it’s orders being carried out, it knew it would take time to get the ship moving, something this massive didn’t easily get moving. While It waited, It quickly gave orders to it’s underling’s on the surface of the planet. It figured that once they saw the ship was no longer there, they might think they were off the hook. It ordered that every female capable of having a child be paired with a different male everynight until it was found to be pregnant. Work shifts should be increased to 15 of the 30 hour ‘day’, instead of 10. It finished Its instructions with an admonition that It wanted to see an improvement by the time It got back.

The old ship groaned as it slowly started to move, at 6 miles long and 1 mile wide, it had taken two hundred cycles to build. It had been in service since the last war, and still seemed like the day it was completed. The Preator took some pleasure in giving the command to get underway; it was the first time since assuming command that It had given such an order. The ship hadn’t moved in over three hundred cycles, the risk of discovery had been too great. Now, the High Counsel had decided the importance of the Talosian probe was worth the risk. Perhaps once It got to the planet, It could argue for invasion. Otherwise this would be a boring trip.