E:A Vol 4 Ch 11—April 13, 2120

April 13, 2120. Two weeks of telepathic interrogation of the rebels were coming to a close when Ja’val began his last round of questions for the day. The Rayth holding cell, with its blue-green benachti walls was ringed with windows high overhead from where the High Council watched the proceedings along with the High Chancellor.

The answers of every rebel had been the same. At least up until now. “Where is the rebel base of operations?” Ja’val asked, weary from another day of going into someone’s head to find the information.

“Fahn,” came the unexpected reply. The man was the leader of the group that invaded the chancellery. He wasn’t the last man on the list to be interrogated, but was probably their best candidate after Di’vash who was still off-limits regarding telepathic interrogation.

Zy’nayth stood and walked towards the window and glared down upon the prisoner. Kol’non and six flagship warriors were in the room with the prisoner and Ja’val.

Ja’val dug deeper into the mind and pulled up an image of the base. “How many on this base?”

“A couple hundred. I don’t know the exact number.”

“Is the former High Chancellor’s son hiding there?”

“He was. I don’t know if he still is.”

“Are there any other bases?”

“I don’t know.”

“I want you to explain to us the security measures around the planet and the base,” Ja’val said as Kol’non and the warriors took note.

Once Zy’nayth thought they have enough intel to get into the base without much danger of a fight, he pressed the panel on the wall. “Go!” he said to Kol’non.

On his way out of the room, Kol’non sent word to the Second Commander to have the flagship ready for an immediate departure. He, along with three pre-selected members of the High Council, met in the corridor and were teleported up. Ny’van joined them moments later. Zy’nayth, wanting to go, had been told to leave it to the High Council so that any charge Di’vash and Ca’vak might try to bring against the High Chancellor, such as rough treatment, could be denied by the Councilmen who were on the flagship, as well as the others who would remain with the High Chancellor on Kiva.

When the hideout was raided, they found Ca’vak asleep in his quarters as if he had no cares troubling him. “I had warned you,” Ny’van said to Ca’vak as the rebel was shackled, “you would not succeed. You and your brother know as well as I do how intelligent the High Chancellor is.”

“The serum should have weakened him!” Ca’vak said. Part of it was acting, but he had truly believed that the serum would turn Zy’nayth into a mere human. At the very least, it should have made him weaker.

“It probably would have worked if you didn’t try to overdose him with it. He’s all yours. Get him out of my sight.”

“Yes, sir,” Kol’non said.

Once the rebels were taken to the brig on the flagship, Kol’non ordered the ship to return to Kiva, then contacted Zy’nayth.

“We have them sir,” Kol’non said. “I believe they, too, should be questioned.”

“I agree,” Zy’nayth replied and posed the question to the High Council members with him, “what are your thoughts?”

“Let’s make sure we know everything,” the Lead Councilman spoke up. “And end this.”

“To truly do that, we would need to telepathically interrogate Di’vash and Ca’vak. Will you allow this?”

“Given what we’ve learned this past week, and about the Vice Chancellor’s encounters with them, yes. But again, we ask that your First Science Commander do the questioning, and we should oversee the questioning as we have been.”

Zy’nayth informed Kol’non then walked down and to the room where the prisoner was getting up out of his chair to be escorted back to his cell. “We have six more men to question. We will begin again tomorrow at the same time,” Zy’nayth said to Ja’val, then we will question Di’vash and Ca’vak. When the Vice Chancellor returns, remove those transmitters from him.”

“You know about those?” the rebel Rayth asked as he neared the door.

Zy’nayth smiled, “There is much I know; there is much I find out. My friends are very, very loyal to me. Pass this along to your rebel friends,” he said and dropped his voice to its most threatening, “If you threaten my friends or their families, you are threatening me. I will find you and I will stop you. If you are fortunate, you will die quickly.” Zy’nayth looked at his warriors, “Take him. That will be all for the day.” Then he turned to the High Councilmen still in the observation area, the ‘Supreme Commander’ gone from his eyes and voice. “Gentlemen, we will resume at the usual time tomorrow. It was a short day, but extremely productive. Thank you.”

When Zy’nayth returned to his chambers on Terra 2, Victoria, the kids, and the dogs weren’t there, but just as he went to contact them through his comlink, the door opened behind him and the dogs came pouncing into the living room and tried to tackle him. The sight of his family, the antics of the dogs, made him smile.

“You’re back early,” Victoria said, and greeted him with a kiss, “that’s either good news or bad.”

“I think it would have to be one or the other,” Zy’nayth said. “It is good news. We found the rebel base.”

“You found puppy poisoners?” Mik’kenna asked.

“Yes, my beautiful girl, we did. You and Ky’nayth no longer need to worry. The men are in prison.”

Ky’nayth hugged Baxter, “You no in danger no more! Daddy did it!”

“Daddy had a lot of help,” Zy’nayth said. “The team on my flagship and the High Council helped. And, of course, Uncles Ja’val and Kol’non.”

“That’s wonderful,” Victoria said as she knelt down to give the kids and dogs hugs. “Everyone’s safe.”

Mik’kenna reached up to her father who picked her up so she could give him a hug and a kiss. “Tank you, Daddy, for helping Suhwest and Baxter.”

“You are very welcome,” he smiled, his silver eyes twinkling with love for his daughter, his family. It had been a good day and he was thankful the threat had passed. “I just returned here, I still need to inform General Cavanaugh of the news,” he said. “It should only take a few minutes.”

***

“And so we begin the next phase,” said the man in the shadows.

“The Supreme Commander will push to telepathically interrogate Di’vash and Ca’vak, sir, you know this.”

“Yes. And that is why they were never given the full details of phase two. I know the Supreme Commander quite well and how he operates; how he thinks; how he is able to anticipate. He will not anticipate this move.”

“We didn’t anticipate not having his children in custody nor did we anticipate him surviving at full strength from that serum overdose.”

“Which is why we continued with phase two. He tends to find a way out of everything. A gift, I guess you could say. But this time…this time Earth and the Raythian Empire will demand that he step down. And I will see the look in those blasted silver eyes when they tell him.”

The Rayth bowed and left the room.

***

Zy’nayth kept his word, his meeting with Vince was short, just to get the main point across. He returned to Victoria’s chambers where he spent a leisurely afternoon reading his children an old Raythian fantasy. Meanwhile, Victoria had a big roast dinner with all the trimmings in the oven. She, too, sat and listened to the story, a simple adventure story, which he read in the original Raythian. She smiled at herself, proud that she understood it. Her Raythian was improving. He hadn’t quite finished the story when dinner was ready. But after they had eaten and helped with the clean-up, Zy’nayth finished the story before they prayed and retired for the evening.

Just as Victoria rested her head on her pillow and closed her eyes, her comlink buzzed.

“This is Carson,” she mumbled, and after the response on the other end, she bolted upright, “Take her to the infirmary. I’ll be right there,” she said, hopping out of bed and grabbing a clean jogging suit and threw it on. “Lessa’s having contractions,” she said to her husband and tapping off the conversation. “Chris is scared. No, no need for you. False labor, happens a lot. Becket’s having a date with Amelia, so Chris called me.” She kissed his cheek. “I’ll call as soon as I know anything.”

Victoria walked into the infirmary, pulling her curly brown hair into a short pony tail. “What have we got?” she asked Sasha, one of the non-specialized doctors on staff.

Sasha read off the vitals, “She’s not dilated.”

“I’d hope not. This little one isn’t due for a few months yet,” Victoria said and slipped on gloves and put on a mask then started pulling the curtain around the bed. “Chris, breathe,” she said. “I’m going to do a visual, then I’ll scan her.” She looked at Geoffrey, “Get the big scanner ready,” she said, then turned back to her patient as he left, closing the curtain the rest of the way. “Okay, honey, try to relax.” Sasha pushed the cart of equipment which might be needed over to Victoria’s side and stayed to assist if needed.

Chris held his wife’s hand tight as Victoria began her exam. “Sasha, I need more light please,” she said. “Perfect, thank you.” After a few minutes, she said everything looked normal, but a scan would prove the fact.

“What’s causing this?” Chris asked.

“She has a slight fever, which could cause a false labor,” Victoria said. “Any discharge?”

“No.”

“Where’s the pain?”

“It’s not really pain, just cramping. Right here, front of my tummy,” Alessa said.

“No back pain?”

“No.”

“Is it easing up?”

Alessa thought about it, “Yeah, I think so.”

“Good. So far, it’s all pointing to a false labor,” Victoria replied as she covered her patient back up then opened the curtain. With Chris and Geoffrey’s help, they pushed the bed towards the scanner.

“Isn’t this a bit early even for a false labor?” Chris asked. “I thought that happened like a week or something before the baby came. She’s got a while to go yet.”

“If can happen this early. Geoffrey, can you lock those wheels over there? Thanks. Alessa, try to relax so I can get some good images,” Victoria smiled. “Chris, breathe. She’s not dilated. There’s every indication that this is just a normal false labor.”

“Can I get a pillow for my knees?” Alessa asked. Geoffrey grabbed a knee rest and gently slid it into place for her. “Much better, thank you.”

Chris was pacing back and forth as the scan started. “You’re a bit dehydrated. That and the fever probably triggered the false labor,” Victoria said as the scanner began displaying various information. A few minutes later they were moving the bed out from under the scanner. “Baby Chapman looks just fine. I don’t see any signs of anything serious. Have you had a cold or anything like that?” Victoria asked, now doing a check of her ears, nose, and throat.

“A headache or two,” she said. “Just threw that off to being stress.”

“Well, you have an ear infection,” Victoria said, having just finished checking both ears. “A pretty bad one. Surprised you haven’t had an earache. So…”

“Doc, what will the antibiotics do to the baby?” Chris asked, cutting Victoria’s remark off.

“No need for antibiotics,” she smiled and tapped her comlink, and spoke to her husband. “It’s a false labor, but she does have an ear infection. I was wondering if…”

“I am on my way,” Zy’nayth said without letting her finish.

Victoria looked at Chris, “He’ll take care of her infection. Meanwhile, lots of fluids. And just so you know, false labor can happen again and even get worse as you get closer to your due date. Different things can be done, sometimes shifting positions will work, a walk, a bath, a massage.” Sasha came over with a handout. “Perfect,” Victoria said. “This has a comparison chart. This list, false labor signs; over here, real labor. Suggestions on how to deal with the false labor,” she turned the sheet over, “And most importantly, when to call me or Becket. Actually, it’s best if you come here first or call the doctor on duty. That way, if we’re off duty or off-world, these guys can tend to the problem immediately as we make our way here. Everyone here, including the nurses can deliver Baby Chapman.”

Zy’nayth walked over, giving a nod to both Sasha and Geoffrey. “Alessa, are you all right?”

“Bit scared, but now that I know what’s going on, I’ll be fine,” she said.

“Victoria, just an ear infection?”

“Yes. Baby Chapman is doing wonderfully.”

“You are referring to the child inside of Alessa, not her husband, I assume, because he looks as if he is not doing so well,” Zy’nayth grinned.

“Me? You’re surprised I’m worried when you, Mr. Supreme Commander, ruler of the galaxy, had your wife scanned every time she sneezed when she was pregnant,” Chris retorted.

“He’s right, you know,” Victoria nudged her husband.

“He is not. I am not the ruler of the galaxy,” he smiled and lifted his hand off of Alessa’s chest. “The ear infection is gone. I saw no other signs of infection.”

“Thanks,” Alessa smiled.

“If I am not needed further, I should return. I do not like leaving the children alone.”

“Go,” Victoria said. “As for you two. No need to hang out here. Just expect this to happen from time to time. I would like you back in the morning to have your BP checked. It was slightly elevated. I think that was probably just stress, but let’s make sure. Any of the staff can check it and enter it into the log.”

“I’ll make a note to call you or Dr. McKenna if it is still elevated,” Geoffrey said as he put the information into Alessa’s file.

“Thanks, Geoffrey. Any questions?”

“I can still go to work, can’t I?”

“I’d take tomorrow off just to build up your fluids and settle your worry a bit, but sure, you can work. I don’t see anything to indicate otherwise.”

“Good. Chris, I don’t need a wheelchair. It says here that walking will help.”

“But I want to push the wheelchair,” he frowned.

Victoria closed the curtain around their bed. “Get changed and go home. Good night, you two. Call if you need anything,” she said and headed back to her chambers after checking over the file before Geoffrey entered it as approved.

April 27, 2120

The Alpha Team, Kaven, Becket, Simon, and their significant others, as well as a handful of Rayth were in attendance at the simple wedding ceremony. With Alessa’s pregnancy getting a little unpredictable, and Lutia’s baby due even earlier than Baby Chapman, Be’atta decided to move things up a few weeks. Since there was only a small group who’d be attending, it wasn’t a problem to arrange.

The bride looked lovely in her plain green and blue dress, and Kol’non, in his black uniform, looked every bit the handsome groom. Mik’kenna was excited that she got to carry red rose flower petals and toss them down the aisle. She thought that made everything even more beautiful. Ky’nayth carried a blue silk pillow with the wedding rings on it. He didn’t think his job was as much fun, but Pastor Jacob talked to him about the importance of the wedding vows and the rings. Ky’nayth then thought he had the most important job aside from Pastor Jacob in the entire proceedings and walked proudly down the aisle with the pillow held reverently in his hands.

There were only a few bouquets of flowers placed around the platform, with no other decorations. Be’atta wanted it simple. She wasn’t one for fuss. The couple had submitted the marital form to the Rayth homeworld, so technically, they had been married earlier that morning, but for Be’atta, the exchanging of vows was important, not just in her culture, but even more so now that she and Kol’non had become Christians.

After the ceremony, the group gathered for lunch in one of the empty rooms in the building that Victoria and a few others transformed into a dining hall. Of course, cake was served. Others on the base, not invited to the ceremony, were invited to stop in for cake and ice cream and to congratulate the couple. People filtered in and out as their duties allowed. Those on duty in the control room were taken cake since they wouldn’t have a chance to break away.

“You look very beautiful,” Zy’nayth said to the bride, then gave her a kiss on her cheek. “Victoria and I wish you and my First all the best.”

“Me, too,” Ky’nayth said as Mik’kenna nodded, “and thanks for cake.”

Be’atta knelt and kissed both kids, “You are quite welcome. Thank you for helping with the ceremony, both of you made everything perfect.”

“You’re really not going anywhere for your honeymoon?” Chris asked.

“No. Just staying here,” Be’atta replied. “We need to consolidate our chambers. We still haven’t decided to move into his or mine,” she chuckled.

“Personally, I think we should move into her chambers,” Kol’non said, “much cozier.”

“But yours are bigger.”

“Not by much. I like yours better.”

“But we could use more room,” Be’atta said.

“First fight?” Victoria grinned.

Be’atta smiled and kissed her husband’s cheek. “No. I’ll be fine with whatever we choose.”

“Shadow is used to your chambers too,” Kol’non said.

“I think the dog can adapt.”

May 4, 2120

Baxter and Celeste led the way out of the barn, tearing off in a run as soon as the door opened. They were followed by their five brothers and sisters, then their owners. It was the Saturday after Kol’non and Be’atta’s wedding. The family was going to spend a week at Victoria’s Montana estate. Everyone was looking forward for some down time given the struggles the first few months of the year brought upon them. Di’vash and Ca’vak would not be questioned until they returned. All of the subordinates had been seen to, but Zy’nayth felt his family needed time together, he needed time away, if only for a week.

“The weather’s beautiful, a little chilly, but nice,” Alessa said as they crossed the lawn towards the house.

“Which is nice for a change,” Chris said, “after storms and blizzards we’re usually met with here.”

“Indeed,” Zy’nayth replied.

The group entered the parlor off of the back patio and the dogs began running around, making sure the house was secure as their guardians decided who was going to sleep where. The couples each got a bedroom, leaving one bedroom, the attic, and the study where a pullout was located.

“Vice Chancellor, you get to choose,” Victoria said.

“Come stay with us in the attic,” John said, “we’d like a chance to get to know you a little better.”

Ny’van gave him a slight bow, “I would like that.”

“I’ll take the pullout in the study,” David said, “unless one of the ladies wants some privacy.”

John, Kaven, Becket, along with Janice and Amelia, and the Vice Chancellor took their things up to the attic.

“I wish Vince could have come,” Victoria said as she carried groceries into the kitchen.

“Perhaps next time,” Zy’nayth said as his son ran into the kitchen.

“Can we put up agility stuff now?”

“John, Kaven, and I need to return to Terra 2 to get the rest of the groceries,” Zy’nayth said, “but we can put it up as soon as we get back.”

“I can help you,” David said to the boy having already dropped his things in the study, “Come on, let’s get your sister and get this thing set up.”

“Thank you, David,” Zy’nayth said.

The men returned with the rest of the groceries then the entire group spent what was left of the day watching the dogs and the kids play. A little yard work was done here and there, then sandwiches were served for lunch, which was closer to everyone’s dinnertime due to the time difference from Terra 2. Tomorrow, they’d begin their construction on the suite over the garage.

“I was thinking that since we’re here, we could get the furnishings for it,” Chris said. “Dad and I have picked up all of the lumber, plumbing, and wiring you requested, which, by the way, is all stored in the garage, but I’m wondering if we should go ahead and take Victoria into town to pick out things like the fridge, sinks, bed, faucets, tile, flooring, dresser, things like that.”

“Well, I haven’t really thought about the decorating,” Victoria said. “I’ll start looking through some stuff online and see what I can come up with.”

“No,” Chris replied, “don’t rush. I thought maybe you already had something in mind and thought we could get that out of the way.”

“I’ll start looking anyway. I need to. But you know what I do need,” she looked at her husband and sighed, “and don’t say ‘I told you so.’ I need to move some things around in the kitchen and get a bigger fridge and stove. Or if there’s room, maybe two stoves in the kitchen instead of just one, even if it is a commercial stove.”

“I believe I mentioned that to you some time ago,” Zy’nayth grinned. “And note that I did not say ‘I told you so.’”

“And…” she said, ignoring her husband, “I need to get bigger pots and pans, or at least more of them. Would anyone be willing to head out with me tomorrow morning after breakfast to get that stuff? While we’re out, if we’re up to it, I could start looking for some of those other things.”

“I can,” Be’atta said, “since I know he’ll want you guarded.”

“I can go as well,” Janice said, “Alessa, Lutia you two want to get out? You could do a little shopping for baby clothes and things.”

“I’ll pass,” Alessa said, “Chris and I will be visiting my parents on Friday, and I’m sure they’ll take us out shopping for the baby…again.”

“I’d like to go,” Lutia said, “I haven’t gotten anything yet.”

“Amelia?” Victoria asked, “You want to tag along?”

“Nah, I’ll stay here with Alessa. We can take care of the guys.”

“Both of you can come,” Victoria said, “they can fend for themselves pretty well if we’re not back by lunchtime. I’m sure at least one of them can throw a sandwich together, or throw burgers on the grill.”

“Go on,” Chris said to his wife. “She’s right. We’ll be fine. And Doc will be there in case you have another false labor thing. You need to get your mind off of that and enjoy yourself.”

“I agree,” Becket said to Amelia, “go and have fun. But since we’re all just being lazy today, we could move her kitchen around if she’s planning on getting two stoves.”

“I help!” Ky’nayth said.

“Me too!” Mik’kenna said, “But I need hat first.”

Both kids went running up to the master bedroom and returned with their baseball caps on. Both had them turned around backwards.

Zy’nayth raised an eyebrow, “I do not believe that is how you wear those hats.”

“Dis how Uncle Chris wear his bay ball hat when he move beds for us,” Ky’nayth explained. “Dis how wear for moving.”

“I only did that so the bill wouldn’t be in the way and knock the hat off,” Chris smiled. “You two pay a lot of attention to what I do.”

Mik’kenna nodded, “Has to learn so be smart. We ready now, Uncle Becket.”

Once Victoria figured out where she wanted things moved, David told her that they’d need to do some rewiring and move the plumbing and gas lines.

Zy’nayth examined the situation and made some suggestions. “That would give us plenty of room for a double stove and would not require any construction other than a new countertop. Would that still be convenient for your work flow in here?”

“I think so,” Victoria said and mentally went over everything in her head then she finally nodded. “Yeah, I think that works better than what I had in mind.”

“Since we’re getting rid of the kitchen table and chairs, we could make an island in the center of the room,” David said. “Just a work counter with some cabinets underneath, and maybe a hanging rack overhead for the pots and pans. Could put some barstools around it if it’s just you and the kids here, that way you don’t have to mess up the dining room. And since you have to get a countertop anyway, might as well get one for this..”

“You’d have to build that, though,” she said, “I don’t want to…”

“It’s a box with doors, it’ll be easy,” David said. “Just pick up four barstools, one of those hanging racks and a countertop. Chris and I will measure things out.”

“Dad’s right,” Chris said, “we made one for Mom’s kitchen, it didn’t take long at all. Took longer for the stain to dry than to build the thing.”

“Mommy, I help. I use hammer,” Ky’nayth said, then repeated his offer to his father while tugging on his white leather pants. “Pwease?”

“I really like the idea, so thank you so much for this extra work.”

“Good,” David said, “okay, guys, let’s get this stuff moved. Chris, can you get that counter measured?”

Mik’kenna ran up to her father, “Where I help?”

“You and Ky’nayth can help me unload this hutch. Uncle Becket, I could use your help too,” Zy’nayth said. “And tomorrow, we will see how both of you can help out if you do not wish to go shopping with your mother.”

Within an hour, everything was moved. Chris and David took measurements for the island, David noting the length of countertop the replacement for the old one would have to be, and how long the new one for the island would have to be. Then he added fixtures he’d need as well, door handles, screws, and such.

“So while you ladies are out shopping tomorrow, Dad’s going to start on the island,” Chris said. “The rest of us will be tearing up the roof of your garage.”

“Daddy, can I stay and help you?” Ky’nayth asked.

“I would prefer if you went with your mother tomorrow. We will be throwing things around and I do not wish for you to get hurt.”

Ky’nayth frowned and began to tear up, “But I stay out of way. Pwease!”

David got Zy’nayth’s attention, then pointed to himself and made a hammering motion. The Rayth looked at his son, “Would you like to help Uncle David build the island?”

Ky’nayth’s eyes lit up as he nodded, “Yes! I help!”

“Very well. You will be his assistant.”

Ky’nayth ran up to his father and gave him a hug, “Thank you, Daddy.”

“You can also help watch over the dogs,” Chris said. “We’re going to be so busy we might forget to feed them and give them fresh water.”

“Mik’kenna,” Zy’nayth looked at his sleepy-eyed daughter, “do you want to go with your mother or stay here tomorrow?”

“I go shoppy to help get pans and ice cweam.”

“I do not believe ice cream was on your mother’s list.”

“It is. She just forgot.”

Victoria shook her head, “We’re not going to the grocery store.”

“But we need ice cweam for cake. And tweats for puppies.”

“We have plenty of treats for the dogs,” Zy’nayth said.

“But cake!”

Victoria chuckled and hugged her daughter. “We’ll see.”

“Can I get new hat if no cake?”

“Mik’kenna, please do not act like this. It is unbecoming for a young lady,” Zy’nayth said.

“But Daddy…”

“Mik’kenna.” Her name in that slightly disapproving tone caused the girl to bow her head.

“Sorry, Daddy. Sorry, Mommy. If we get cake, I ‘preciate it.”

Victoria kissed her daughter’s cheek, “I know you will. I love you, Kenna.”

“I tired. Should let Suhwest out now and go bed.”

“I think all the dogs need to go out,” Kaven said, “and then I’m going to crash.”

Mik’kenna and Ky’nayth went over to the pile of dogs who were half asleep near the back patio door. “Daddy!” Mik’kenna yelled suddenly very awake, “Daddy!”

Zy’nayth hurried to his daughter, “What is wrong?”

She was kneeling down and petting Celeste, “She hurted.” She pointed to the blood on the floor around her beloved dog.

“I’ll get something to clean up the blood,” John said, the first to arrive after Zy’nayth. “I didn’t hear them break anything.”

“Me either,” Alessa said.

Zy’nayth knelt down and gently rolled Celeste onto her back then put his hand on her chest. The dog didn’t seem to mind and thought she was going to get a tummy rub, something she always enjoyed. Mik’kenna stroked her dog’s head and told her that she was going to be fine.

“There is no injury,” Zy’nayth said. “Kol’non, Ja’val, Vice, will you help check the other dogs?”

The four Rayth checked the dogs and found that it was Shadow who had been injured with a small bit of glass in one of his paws. Kol’non healed his wife’s dog as John, cleaning up the blood, followed its trail to the hallway that led to a walk-in closet. “Good news, the dogs didn’t break anything. The light bulb popped”

“Daddy, teach me how to heal puppies,” Mik’kenna said.

“I will when you develop the energy aperture in your hands.”

Mik’kenna looked at her hands then took one of her father’s hands and looked at it. Then she went over to her mother and did the same thing. And for the first time, realized that her father had a nearly invisible line running from the base of his hand to just under his middle finger.

“Why I no have dat?”

“You are too young yet,” Zy’nayth said. “You will develop them in a few years.”

“Den I no Rayth yet? I human like Mommy.”

“Your father is human as well,” Becket said. “Rayth just have this extra ability to heal or harm with that aperture in their hands.”

“You are Rayth,” Zy’nayth said. “You have our white hair, our blue eyes, our heightened senses, not to mention telepathy. Do not worry about the hands. All Rayth do not develop the energy apertures until they are well into their teen years.”

“Why I no see dis ‘fore?” she pondered aloud as she looked at her own hands again.

“Baby,” Victoria said as she lifted her daughter and propped her on a hip, “it’s nothing to worry about. Let’s go get washed up for bed.”

“Need to wait for Suhwest,” she said pointing to the open sliding glass doors.

Once the dogs were back inside, everyone went to their respective rooms to settle down for the night.

“Victoria, Zy’nayth,” Ny’van called to them as they headed for the stairs, “may I talk to you before you settle in?”

“Of course,” Victoria said. “Do you want to talk privately?”

“Not necessary. I just have a couple of questions since I have not been here before.”

“Just join us in our bedroom. The children can wash up while we talk,” Zy’nayth said.

The kids got their pajamas out of the dresser then Mik’kenna went first to change and wash her face and hands while Ky’nayth spread out their sleeping bags and got their pillows ready.

“I feel quite out of place here,” Ny’van said. “Everyone has been quite welcoming, but all of you are so close and seem to be one big family. I don’t know what I should be doing to fit in.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Victoria said, “I think that working with the guys tomorrow will ease that awkwardness.”

“And we do not stand on ceremony,” Zy’nayth said. “I am not the High Chancellor here. Kol’non is just Kol’non. This is to be a very relaxed place to visit. And everyone understands if you do not wish to reveal your name yet, so do not concern yourself about that. They will not take any offense.”

“When do Kol’non and Ja’val leave to feed? Is there a set time or do they just leave when they need to?”

“They tend to go while breakfast is being prepared,” Zy’nayth said.

“Should I wear my uniform throughout the week; I did bring more casual clothing.”

“The uniform is not necessary. We will all be in casual wear tomorrow.”

“When you eat, what do Kol’non and Ja’val do? Do they try to eat the prepared food or do they go and do something else?”

“We usually all sit together,” Zy’nayth said. “Both of them taste the food, figuring out what they like, much as I did. Do not feel as though you have to. Though I would suggest you join us at the table, it is usually quite entertaining, and of course, it is a good time to bond with everyone.”

“You’ll fit right in. By this time tomorrow, you won’t feel so out of place,” Victoria said.

Zy’nayth smiled, “You will. Good night, my friend.”

May 5, 2120

The next morning, while Victoria, Amelia, and Janice worked on fixing breakfast, Kol’non, Ja’val, and Ny’van bridged to the Rayth homeworld and fed. Victoria had insisted that Lutia and Alessa sleep in since their babies enjoyed kicking at night, not allowing either of them much sleep. Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna were up with their parents and were helping out in the kitchen with the little things that Victoria allowed them to do.

Ny’van walked in, shortly after returning from Kiva and watched the group work. “This is quite a process for a meal. Makes me think our way is easier.”

“Your way is lethal,” Victoria said without any malice.

“Indeed. I said it was easier, not better. You husband regales me with tales of your wonderful cooking. I can’t wait to try a little of it.”

“You’ll love it,” Janice said, “If she wasn’t such a great doctor, Victoria could have been a chef.”

“Nah,” Victoria said, “I’m just good at making comfort food.

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

Victoria grinned, “I think we’ve got it. But I could use you to set the table. Plates are in the hutch in the dining room.”

David smiled as he walked in. “Good morning, ladies. Breakfast smells wonderful as always. Ah, here, I’ll help with the place settings.”

“Good morning, friends!” Chris said, walking in, rubbing his hands together. “My beautiful wife slept through the entire night. I’m so proud of her and proud of Baby Chapman letting her sleep.”

The rest of the group arrived, the food was served and prayed over, then the morning discussions began. “So once we get the dishes done, we’ll head off,” Victoria said.

“Since all of you are going, and because I do not have the flagship in the area,” Zy’nayth said, “I would like Christopher, John, or Kaven to join you. I know Be’atta will be armed, but I would like one of the men with you, not only for protection but to lift any heavy boxes. I do not want any of you beautiful ladies getting injured, especially the two of you who are expecting.”

Chris offered to go especially in case Alessa went into another false labor, so once they had notes on the items needed for the kitchen, the group headed out.

Victoria contacted her husband through her comlink when they were on their way home. It was just after 3:00 in the afternoon. “We got the fridge, stove ,and the countertops. I looked at things for the suite over the garage but I didn’t buy anything except some kitchen and bathroom faucets. We got some cute things for babies, too.”

Zy’nayth was sitting on the roof of the garage as he listened to his wife. “Did you get the cake and ice cream?” he asked with a smile, knowing she wasn’t going to.

“No, and a certain young lady is not happy about that.”

“Then she will be surprised when you serve it for dessert tonight. Becket went and picked it up as requested.”

“Thank him for me. We’ll be there in about ten minutes. Do you think we can get the new appliances hooked up so I can use them for dinner? Or we could pick something up on the way back. Chris keeps mentioning deep dish pizza.”

“It should not be a problem. But I do not think we will have the countertop in place. David would know more than I. And I am not sure how David and Ky’nayth are doing on the island counter. But if Christopher wants his pizza, I think that would be fine and would keep us from rushing to get the kitchen in order.”

“All right, give us a little extra time to get there. Shouldn’t be more than an hour, I would think.”

When Chris pulled the cruiser into the driveway, Victoria’s eyes went wide. The roof of her garage was now a big pile of rubble to the east of the driveway. When Chris alerted them of their arrival time, the men stopped their work and were now sitting in the shade of the garage where David and Ky’nayth were still working on the kitchen island.

As the cruiser’s hatch opened, the seven dogs all came running up from where they were sunbathing to greet them. “Looks like you’ve been busy,” Chris said.

“Four Rayth,” John said, “roof didn’t stand a chance.”

“And how’s the cabinet coming?” Victoria asked as she walked up to David and Ky’nayth.

“Moving right along,” David said. “We have all of the wood cut, the base and doors are done, the stain drying them. Ky’s sanding the rest of the wood with me. He’s doing a great job too. Everything’s nice and smooth.”

“I got splinter!” the boy said, excited about it. “Uncle Becket got it out. It hurted. I cwied just for second.” He held up his little hand and showed his mother the bandage, “Got dis too.”

“You didn’t have Daddy heal you?” she asked.

“He did,” Becket said, “but Ky wanted the bandage.”

Victoria bent down and kissed her son, “Well, I’m glad you’re okay, and I’m happy you’re such a big help to Uncle David.”

“Guys, I think it’ll be easier to move the appliances in through the patio door,” Chris said analyzing the situation, “I’m going to move the cruiser over to that side of the house.”

David looked at the little girl, “Miss Mik’kenna is there something wrong?”

“I no know.”

“Are you upset because your mother didn’t get cake and ice cream?”

Mik’kenna frowned and nodded. “I know not ‘pose be. But I hungwy for cake.”

“Maybe your mother has some other dessert planned.”

“I no know.”

“Did you at least have fun shopping?”

“I got new hat and got one for Bubby.”

“Can I see it?”

“Daddy took in house in bag.”

“I think your brother needs to take a little break. Let’s get something to drink and see what you got.”

Mik’kenna smiled and went running into the house. “Thank you,” Victoria whispered to David as he followed the kids into the house.

Mik’kenna found the shopping bag with the hats and dug out the one she picked for her brother. “Here Bubby,” she said, “I hope you like it. I picked blue ‘cause you have green bay ball hat already.”

The hat was a deep sapphire blue. Ky’nayth took it and examined it. “Thank you, Sissy. I like it lots.” He had his father take off the tag then he put it on. “Mommy, can you fix hair?”

Victoria knelt down and used her fingers to pull her son’s long hair into a pony tail, then she pulled it through the opening in the back of the hat. “How’s that?”

“Thank you,” he said then gave Mik’kenna a hug, “I love new hat.”

“See mine!” she said and put on her blue one. It was the same sapphire blue as her brother’s but had sequins all over it. “I got same as you but wif tars so we tell ‘part!”

“I like it!”

“Show him the new shoes,” Victoria said.

“Uncle Chris and Aunt Alessa got dese for us,” Mik’kenna said searching for the right shopping bag. “Dey go with our cowboy hats.” With that she handed her brother a box containing a pair of black leather cowboy boots.

“Try them on, sweetie,” Victoria said, “if they’re the wrong size, I can exchange them tomorrow.”

Ky’nayth sat on the floor and kicked off his gym shoes then pulled on the boots. Victoria checked them and was satisfied that they were the correct size.

“Mine are red like cowboy hat,” she said as she showed him her pair.

“Let’s put them away so they don’t get scuffed while working on the construction project,” Victoria said.

Ky’nayth took his off and carefully put them back into the box. “Thank you for boots,” he said to Alessa. “Where Uncle Chris?”

“He is helping the others bring in the new stove and fridge,” Zy’nayth said, “and I should go and help them.”

“Actually,” Kol’non spoke up, “we should move the old appliances out of the way since she did get the replacements.”

“After we eat. Let us get the appliances in the house then we can eat and work afterwards,” Zy’nayth said.

After eating just one slice of pizza, Victoria went into the kitchen and began whipping up the cake mix. David, Kol’non, and Zy’nayth got one of the stoves in place so she could put the two cakes in to bake. Mik’kenna walked in to thrown her paper plate away. “What making now?” she asked as her mother got out a big bowl.

“Cake.”

“But you say no cake.”

“I said we weren’t going to buy any cake. And we didn’t buy any cake.”

“Mommy! You trick me!”

“Maybe a little. I wanted you and Ky to be surprised. Watch the pan, I don’t want the food to burn.”

“Sorry,” she said and went back to her task. “I love you, Mommy. Tank you for cake.”

***

“So how was your day, Vice Chancellor?” Victoria asked after returning to the living room where everyone was still eating the pizza.

“I hope I was of help,” he said. “And please, I already told the gentlemen, call me Ny’van.”

Victoria smiled, “I take it that you all got along fine then.”

“Funny guy,” John said, “I nearly fell off of the roof from laughing so hard.”

“True story,” Kaven said. “If Kol’non hadn’t been right there, I think he would have rolled right off the edge.”

John recounted the day’s events and everyone got a laugh out of what happened. After dinner, Victoria checked on the cakes and set them out to cool, then Becket asked everyone to join him in the living room.

Becket said, “I need to do something and I want all of you here for this.”

“Oh no,” Chris said, standing up and walking over to him, almost in a threatening manner. “You better not be thinking of leaving Terra 2 again. That was not fun the last time. And now we have two pregnant women. You can’t leave. I won’t let you!”

“No,” Becket smiled, “I think you’ll approve of this decision.” He walked over and knelt in front of Amelia. With shaking hands, he expressed how much he loved her, then he pulled out a diamond ring and asked her to marry him.

Amelia was in tears before he even got the first couple of words out, and when he finally popped the question, she threw her arms around his neck and cried, “Yes!”

The couple was congratulated, hugged and kissed. Amelia stared at her ring then kissed her fiancé again. “I love you, Becket McKenna.”

“Well, that was fun,” Chris said, “where’s the dessert?”

Alessa slapped his arm, “Rude.”

He grinned. “These two know I’m thrilled for them, but, my dear, like Miss Mik’kenna, I could use some cake and ice cream, and that takes precedence right now.”

“I agree,” Amelia said, “we need the cake to celebrate. Zy’nayth, can I contact my parents with a video feed? I’d like to tell them the good news.”

“Come, we can go into the study and you two can use my computer,” he said as he stood, “I am quite sure they will be very happy with the news.”

“Mik’kenna, Ky’nayth, will you help me frost the cakes?” Victoria asked. Both kids agreed and were soon bringing in plates of cake and ice cream for everyone. When Becket and Amelia returned from video chatting with her parents, she was in tears.

“I think they’re happier than I am,” she smiled as she wiped away her tears. “I’ve wanted him to ask me for so long.”

“I know you have,” Becket said, “and I’m so sorry that I didn’t ask sooner. I just needed to wrap up a few things for Zy’nayth and…well, settle a few things of my own. For the record, with our closest friends here,” Becket said, “I admit that I do love Victoria, I always will, but my feelings are that of a brother for a sister, nothing more. She will always be someone very special to me, but just as Victoria is madly in love with Zy’nayth, I am madly, deeply, passionately in love with Amelia. And if you guys ever see my eye wandering, you punch me, got it?”

“Don’t worry, we’ll keep you in line,” Kaven said. “I have no problem with punching people.”

“Neither do I,” John and Chris both said at the same time.

“Don’t sound so eager,” Becket laughed.

***

During the middle of the night, Victoria woke with a gasp, jerking upright and clamping her hand over her mouth to stifle a rising scream. Her sudden movement woke her husband. “What is wrong?” he whispered.

She settled when she realized it had all been a dream, but she was still shaking as she snuggled close to her husband. “Nightmare,” she whispered back. “Jason.”

The large Rayth wrapped his arms tightly around her. “He cannot hurt you anymore.”

She nodded but he felt her tears wet his chest. “Don’t let me go,” she whispered.

“Never.”

May 6, 2120

The next morning, Victoria looked exhausted. The night had been difficult. She woke up several times, out of breath, shaking, sweating, and on the edge of screaming. The nightmares were horrific.

“Anything trigger memories of him yesterday?” Janice asked as the ladies fixed breakfast. Chris and David had managed to get the countertop installed the night before and Victoria liked how it looked. She startled out of her thought and turned to Janice.

“No. Not a single thought of Jason in some time,” Victoria shook her head.

“Maybe the date? Could it be that something happened on this date? Well, yesterday’s date?” Amelia asked.

“With Jason, there was no particular date of the horror. It was every single day.” She pulled up a barstool and sat down. “Even now I can’t get those images out of my head.”

Zy’nayth walked in with the twins and their dogs. The kids went about filling the dogs’ water bowls and food dishes, then they returned to the kitchen.

“You should try to get a little more sleep after breakfast,” Zy’nayth said after he kissed his wife.

“Afraid to,” she sighed. “I’ll be okay. Just a bad night. I’m ready to help with the construction project.”

After breakfast, everyone assembled in the garage where Kol’non handed out duties for the day. David would continue working on the kitchen island, with both Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna helping out. Mik’kenna was thrilled. The men would getting the garage ready for the base of the new suite. The women were assigned to pile up the debris from the prior day onto what looked like a big flat black mat. Once everything was on it, with a push of a button, it would unfold itself into a rather large box to be teleported to the flagship the next time it was in the galaxy, and incinerated.

“You know,” Janice said, “some of this wood is in pretty decent condition. Is there something we can make out of it? Maybe another picnic table or something?”

David walked over, the two kids on his heels. With the kids moving from their work area, Baxter and Celeste hopped up from their sunbathing and ran over to make sure they were okay. Both kids knelt and began petting the dogs, which then brought the other five over wanting affection, too. David picked up and examined several pieces of the old lumber. He showed the kids what he was looking for, kneeling by them with a piece of wood in hand so they could continue to lavish affection on the dogs. The ladies also paid attention since if there was some that could be used, they’d need to know which pieces were good to use and which weren’t.

“Janice, I think you’re right. If you guys could separate out the good stuff and pile it up on the driveway, I can think about what to make out of it.”

Victoria motioned him over and whispered in his ear, “Check with Zy, but what about a treehouse?”

“I don’t think there’s enough for that. But I like how you think. I’ll talk to your husband later and see what we can do. We’ll figure something out,” he smiled then turned back to the twins. “Come on kids, we have lots of work left.”

“He’s really good with the kids,” Janice said.

“Yeah,” Victoria grinned, “so is Chris. Must have been a really tight-knit family.”

“Chris is always talking about how goofy his parents were around each other. His mom was apparently quite the comedian. I just picture this cute little family always laughing,” Alessa smiled, thinking of her husband.

“From how Chris and David act, I don’t doubt it,” Lutia said. “You know, we’ve got some really wonderful friends.”

“Family,” Victoria corrected, “and yes we do.”

“Hey Victoria,” Kaven yelled down from the garage roof, “I forgot to make up some tea this morning. Mind helping us poor fellas out?”

“I’m on it!” she yelled back. Thermoses?”

“Inside the garage there by the kitchen door.”

“Mik’kenna, Ky’nayth, would one of you like to help me get the thermoses ready for the guys?”

“I help, if Sissy no want to. She no get to help Uncle David yesterday.”

“I stay with Uncle David to learn, pwease,” Mik’kenna said.

“Kay,” Ky said and kissed her forehead. “Be careful, I no here to watch over you.”

“I’ve always felt sorry for them not having other little ones to play with,” Janice said.

“At least they have each other and those puppies,” Lutia smiled then rubbed her slightly bulging stomach, “and soon there’ll be two little ones to join them.”

Zy’nayth insisted that they work at a leisurely pace, they were, after all, supposed to be vacationing. But the weather was perfect, and so everyone worked hard to get as much done as they could. The ladies kept the iced tea coming, ran and fetched things as needed, then fixed gigantic stuffed burgers for lunch along with homemade French fries and onion rings.

“Juicy,” Mik’kenna said as she wiped her chin with the napkin her father handed her.

“Perhaps you should try smaller bites,” he suggested.

“But so good, my tummy no wait.”

John burst out laughing. “I can’t fault her on that one. My tummy feels the same way. Delicious, Victoria.”

“Ladies,” Kaven said, raising his glass of tea, “my taste buds salute you and my stomach thanks you.”

“All of this is quite tasty,” Ny’van said. “Makes me want to start the serum treatment right now.”

“Did you get a taste of everything?” Victoria asked.

“Yes. Janice fixed me a small plate,” he said with a warm smile at the head nurse.

“David, Ky’nayth, Mik’kenna, I love the island you made for the kitchen. It’s really beautiful. You guys did a great job,” Victoria said.

“Just have to finish staining it, let that dry, then we’re done, except for adding the top,” David said.

Victoria sent everyone to rest after their gigantic burger lunch feast while she cleaned up the kitchen. David took the opportunity to pull Zy’nayth into the study to discuss building a treehouse. Though Zy’nayth liked the idea, he was worried about the children falling.

“How about a playhouse instead?” Zy’nayth suggested.

“We could put it on stilts and I could put a sandbox under it for them to play in,” David said with a nod.

Zy’nayth shook his head, “They have the sandbox you already made. Besides, I would rather keep that separate in case it gets…messy. It would be easier to change out the sand.”

“Good point. Well, I can build just about anything, but designing something like that, unless you just want a box with a roof on it, is sort of out of my league.”

“I will see what I can come up with. What do you think about putting it south of the patio. There are those two big oak trees. I think it would sit nicely there, and be close to the sandbox and the dogs’ agility course.”

“As long as Victoria doesn’t mind it basically in her front yard.”

“I will check with her, and thank you for willing to work on these projects. You truly have a gift.”

“Just like working with my hands, that’s all.”

“Let me talk to the others and see what they think as far as design goes. I think you will have to get more lumber, but we shall see. Perhaps we will use lumber from what we have for the suite and replenish that later.”

“Might as well do it now so we can stay focused on the tasks at hand. Anything else you need me to pick up?” he asked as they joined the others in the living room.

“Is there any equipment or tools that you think we need? It seems as if you and John thought of everything.”

“I think another circular saw might be handy. With as fast as everyone’s working, it would help to have a couple of us cutting the lumber to keep up.”

“Pick up whatever you think will be helpful. Victoria,” he said as they sat down with the others, “would you please give your credit chip to David. He needs to pick up a few things.”

“Tarps,” John said, “A couple more big tarps. Looks like some rain in the forecast. Not tonight, but since you’re going out it would be good to have a couple more tarps to put over the garage if we don’t get the floor down.”

“David, would you be so kind as to take the puppies for a walk before you leave? Ky’nayth, Mik’kenna could you help him?” Zy’nayth asked.

“Puppies walk dem selves now, Daddy,” Mik’kenna said with the wave of her hand.

“I know, sweetheart, but I wish to make sure they have actually done their business before we begin working again. That way I do not have to worry about an accident happening.”

“Kay,” she said. Then she and her brother went with David, leading the dogs outside. It gave Zy’nayth a chance to tell everyone about the playhouse idea.

“If you can give David a rough idea of how much wood to buy,” John said, “and if you could come up with a design today, I’d be more than happy to work on it tonight. Call it a short day on the suite, move on to working on the playhouse.”

“Me too,” Ja’val said. “It’s something that each of the kids will enjoy as they get old enough to play in it.”

“Count me in,” Chris said.

Everyone else also volunteered to help.

“Victoria, would you mind if we slowed progress on the suite?” Zy’nayth asked as she came back down the stairs.

“Of course not. This wasn’t to be a big work week anyway. Where’d David go?”

“Took the kids out so the big guy could tell us about the playhouse,” Chris said. “And if we’re going to get more lumber, I’d best go with him.”

“Playhouse? Not treehouse?” Victoria asked.

“I think it would be safer. They are willing to work at night on the house; we would like to keep it a surprise. That means less work on the house.”

“I would love it. The kids will love it.” She chuckled, “The dogs will love it.”

“Very well. I need to make a good guess as to how much lumber we will need.”

“Sir,” Ja’val said, “I’d be happy to come up with a layout. I have so many ideas.”

“You know my name. There is no need to address me as ‘sir’ here. And I gladly turn over the design to you. Can you work with David on the lumber?”

“Yeah,” he said as he already had his tablet out, “wait, where are we building it? I need to get some measurements.”

Zy’nayth mentioned where they thought about putting it and Victoria said she didn’t care. Ja’val kissed his wife, “This is going to be fun. Our baby will love it!” He bent and kissed her stomach, “Won’t you? You’ll love it.” He hurried out of the house just as David and the kids were returning.

“Puppies did stuff,” Ky’nayth said, “they still outside.”

“Thank you for making sure,” Zy’nayth said. “David, Ja’val will have a few things for you to pick up. You should probably make arrangements for a hauler. Christopher will go with you.”

“If Uncle David go shoppy,” Ky’nayth said, “what me and Sissy do?”

Victoria smiled at her eager son, “I need to check the perimeter and see where we need to do some yardwork. I’ll get the tractor out and teach you how to drive it.”

“Really? I drive?”

“I’ll let both of you.”

“Victoria, if you are going to mow the lawn…” Zy’nayth began.

“No mowing, just checking things out. Picking up branches, things like that.”

“Be careful.”

“Can puppies come?” Mik’kenna asked.

“Yup. But I want them to ride in the wagon.”

“They can run, Mommy,” Ky’nayth said. “They like to run.”

“It’ll be a really long run for them, and since I’ll be focused on you two, I won’t be able to watch out for the dogs. We don’t want an accident to happen. They can get out and run when we make stops.”

“Be careful,” Zy’nayth said again as he headed up to the garage rooftop.

With the wagon hitched to the back of the tractor-mower, the dogs were loaded up. Ky’nayth, Janice, Amelia, and Be’atta sat in the wagon with them to keep them from jumping out.

Mik’kenna got to sit with her mother to learn how to drive the machine. Victoria had shut off the tractor after the wagon was hitched so that she could show her daughter how to start it. It was just a simple push of a button, but she knew her kids would want to do everything themselves. Mik’kenna pushed the button and the tractor that looked like a small shuttle or hovercraft with its top missing roared to life.

Victoria demonstrated how to drive it, then let her daughter take the steering controls while she controlled the speed with the foot pedals. After each stop to pick up downed branches or debris that had flown into the yard, the kids switched drivers.

When the group arrived back at the garage, Zy’nayth checked to see how his children fared. Both kids were excited. They entertained him with stories their first driving lesson, the branches they found, how the dogs helped to fetch them, and how they found one tree that had fallen completely down.

“I see that the tractor is unharmed, I take it that there were no accidents,” Zy’nayth said when he had a chance to speak.

“They did really well. They’re naturals. Which, I’m betting they get from their father,” Victoria smiled.

“Can I fly flagship now?” Ky’nayth asked.

“If you noticed,” Zy’nayth said, “the controls of your mother’s tractor are very different from those of a Raythian battlecruiser.”

“We go slow since I still learning,” Ky’nayth responded with a nod, knowing this was an easy solution.

“I think we need to start you on something smaller and something that is not carrying my best warriors.”

“I be careful.”

“I know you would be,” he bent down and kissed the top of the boy’s head, then gave the same affection to his daughter, “I am glad you had fun.”

***

“Ja’val, this design is…wow…” Chris said as he looked at the schematics the First Science Commander had sent the team just before dinner.

Ja’val looked at Zy’nayth, “If it’s too much, I can scale it back. I suppose I got a little carried away.”

Zy’nayth looked at his wife, “It is up to you. I think the children, ours and those who come after, will enjoy it.”

“Could you walk it off for me outside so that I have a better idea as to how big it is?”

“Go ahead,” Janice said, “I can wrap up the rest of the dinner.”

Ja’val and Zy’nayth walked off the perimeter of the structure. “Oh, that’s pretty big but I think it’s fine. Zy, what do you think?”

Zy’nayth gave her a sly grin, “I probably would have gone bigger, but you do not need it taking up your entire front yard.”

“Okay, let’s do it, but you need to figure out how to get the kids to bed early so that we can work on this. Don’t forget, they’ll hear the sawing and hammering and their curiosity will get the best of them.”

“Which is why we are going to construct most of it in the barn and move it here section by section,” Zy’nayth winked.

“You already planned this out,” she said giving him a pretend frustrated look. “What if I had said ‘no’ to all of this?”

“You would not have refused.”

“I might have.”

“I doubt it,” he smiled then led her back into the house where the dinner was being brought into the dining room.

“Well?” John asked.

“She approved,” Ja’val said as they took their seats, not saying what was approved since the twins were in their seats. “May I pray for the meal?”

After a big meal, the family retired to the living room where old fashioned board games were brought out—a surprise from John—and the kids were taught how to play Yahtzee and checkers. “I also bought a chess set, but I honestly don’t know how to play,” he said, “requires too much thinking.”

“Wow, I haven’t played that in years,” Becket said, “when I was still working in Scotland, one of my friends and I used to get together every Tuesday night and play. We were both horrible, but it helped to get our minds off of whatever project we were buried in.”

“King me, Daddy,” Mik’kenna said as her red checker landed in his starter zone.

“What if I do not want to?” he replied in a serious tone.

“You has to,” she said, “Uncle John say it rules.”

“I outrank Uncle John.”

“I’m not in your army,” John replied, “your rank doesn’t count.”

“I am bigger than you are,” Zy’nayth grinned.

“Daddy! King me! It rule!”

“But you are a female. I cannot king a female.”

“Daddy!” she exclaimed, exasperated, “It not me, it my red checker dat’s king.”

“What if your red checker is a female?”

She frowned. “It not female.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

“Very well,” he said and placed another red checker on top of the one that had made it across the board, “your red checker has been kinged.”

“You has be so diffy cult,” she said with her little arms folded across her chest. “You turn.”

There was a group of Yahtzee players, and a second group trying to remember how to play Monopoly so they could teach the others. An hour before their usual bedtime, Zy’nayth ushered his kids up to the bedroom.

“But it no time yet,” Ky’nayth said, “We want play more games.”

“I know you do,” he replied, “and I am going to let you stay up. We need to pray first.”

Once they were done, Mik’kenna was instructed to take her bath and change into her pajamas. “Ky’nayth, while she is doing that, I need your help to set up your tent.”

“Tent? We go camping?”

“In a way, yes. We are going to set up the tent in the basement. You and your sister can camp there tonight and play checkers and Yahtzee.”

“Can Celeste and Baxter camp with us?” Mik’kenna asked as she got her pajamas out of the dresser.

“Of course.”

The tent was set up, the sleeping bags brought down, pillows, lanterns, and the games. “Most of us are going to be working late,” Zy’nayth told his children, “will you two be all right down here by yourselves?”

Both kids nodded. “We has all puppies with us. We be fine,” Mik’kenna said.

“I believe the ladies will be taking turns staying inside since it will get rather chilly out tonight, so there will be someone in here while we are working.” He pointed to the clock on the wall, “You may stay up until midnight, but remember Lutia and Alessa need their sleep so if they go to bed, try not to be too noisy.”

Victoria came downstairs. She had a bowl of popcorn, paper cups, and plates.

“Your uncles brought the old fridge down. I put a bowl of fruit in there, some carrots, celery, cucumbers slices, and a dip that Aunt Amelia made for you. I’ll bring down a cooler of water. You don’t have to eat any of it, it’s just there if you want something other than popcorn to munch on.”

“Is it on low shelf? We short,” Ky’nayth said.

“It is,” Victoria smiled.

“Can we has lemmy ade?” Mik’kenna asked.

“Not this late at night, honey,” Victoria said.

“I have shut the door to the tunnel,” Zy’nayth said, “so that if we need to bridge to Terra 2 for supplies, we will not disturb you. Is there anything else you need?”

“Can we turn out lights and just use lanterns?” Ky’nayth asked.

“Yes. Anything else?” The kids shook their heads, and got hugs and kisses from their parents. “One last thing, do not feed the pups any of your food. It will make them sick.”

“Daddy, we know,” Ky’nayth said.

“I know you do, I meant to say watch them since you are down at their level, not at a table. Their little noses might get into that popcorn bowl.”

“We watch,” Mik’kenna said. “We take good care of puppies.”

Janice was sitting in the living room, book in hand. “I’m taking first round,” she said, “so that Lutia and Alessa can get to bed at a decent hour. No need for them to stay up. Let them rest.”

“There should not be any problems with the children,” Zy’nayth said, “but if you could look down there every once in a while, I would appreciate it.”

“I will.”

“The guys have already moved just about everything to the barn,” Amelia said coming out of the kitchen with a large cooler of water. Zy’nayth walked over and took it from her and carried it down for the kids.

“Will they hear?” Victoria nodded towards the basement.

“That is why I shut the door to the tunnel. It is soundproof,” Zy’nayth said before descending down the steps.

Out in the barn, the saw horses were set up and the circular saws were both running. Chris on one, John on the other. Ja’val was going over the schematics with everyone else and his plan for constructing in sections by four different teams with Amelia, Victoria, and Janice, the two of whom who weren’t in the house, as the helpers.

It was just before midnight when Zy’nayth and Victoria returned to the house. The others were finishing up their projects and would soon be behind them. The couple walked quietly down the stairs and found the kids putting the bowls of fruits and veggies into the fridge.

“Work done?” Mik’kenna asked then let out a long yawn.

“Done for the night. You look quite tired,” Zy’nayth said.

“We play games,” she groggily smiled as Ky’nayth stumbled to the fridge with the bowl of dip.

“Thank you for cleaning up,” Victoria said as she took the bowl from him. The white-haired boy nodded and stumbled back to the tent, curled up on top of his sleeping bag and fell right to sleep. His sister did the same thing.

Victoria picked up the few other items and set them aside so the kids and the dogs wouldn’t trip over them, then she and Zy’nayth went to their own chambers.

“They were determined to stay up until midnight,” she smiled. “They were probably ready to fall asleep two hours ago. I’m so glad John got those games. I should have thought of something like that.” She stretched and yawned, “I’m going to curl up in your arms and sleep for a week.”

“I am not sure I can give you a week with our two big projects going on,” he smiled as he put on his pajama pants, “but I am more than happy to at least give you tonight.”

The oversized nightgown slid over her head then she slipped into the bed as her husband turned out the lights. Soon they were wrapped up together, both sleeping soundly. But Victoria’s sleep didn’t last long. Despite not having slept well the night before and being completely exhausted from working late on the playhouse, the nightmares came.

Merely an hour after falling asleep she woke, stifling a scream. Zy’nayth pulled her back down into his arms, “Jason again?” he asked quietly.

She nodded and wrapped her arms tightly around him, “Yeah. No. Some of it. Explosions.”

He kissed the top of her head then held her tighter and prayed.

May 7, 2120

“I am sorry to bother you,” Zy’nayth said quietly as he walked into the kitchen where Janice was trying to wake herself up with a cup of strong tea, “but Victoria had another nightmare last night and did not truly fall asleep until two hours ago. Now that she is sleeping soundly, I would like her to get as much as she can. Would you be willing to oversee breakfast preparations?”

“Of course. Jason again?”

“Yes, though she mentioned something about explosions.”

“I’ll be praying for her. You go back up to bed, too. If another of those nightmares comes on, she’ll need you there.”

“I will do that. The children may not be up for breakfast, they were just getting ready for bed when we came in at midnight. Let them sleep in, though the pups will probably…” The seven dogs ran into the kitchen and circled each other at the back door, “need to go out,” Zy’nayth finished then opened the door to let them run outside. “They are very timely.”

“Go back to sleep,” she waved him off with a yawn, “I’ve got it under control.”

“Thank you, Janice.”

When he returned to the bedroom, Victoria was still curled on her side, sleeping soundly. He disrobed and slid in beside her then prayed for her again before drawing her into his arms. “I am here, my beloved, my heart. You are safe.”

“Mmm,” she replied and nuzzled closer to him, making him smile.

She woke two hours later. The moment she moved, Zy’nayth woke and sat up, worried she’d had another nightmare.

“No,” she smiled, “just a potty break. Oh! It’s daylight. I need to get breakfast!”

“I put Janice in charge so you could sleep. She was already awake.”

“Well we still have a lot to do on the playhouse, we should get moving. Were the kids awake?”

“Not when I talked to Janice. The dogs were, however,” he smiled.

There was a crack of thunder causing Victoria to jump, “But it’s sunny,” she said as she walked over to the window. “It’s beautiful out there.”

“Storm moving in. Remember, John mentioned it,” he said and punched a few things into his computer tablet. Victoria quickly went to the bathroom then climbed back into the bed next to him and looked at his computer monitor. He pointed to the screen, “See, not far away. Looks like we will not get any work on the suite done today. The system moved a bit faster than what your weather forecasters predicted.”

“Did you guys get everything covered before we took off to work on the playhouse?”

“The garage, yes,” he said and tapped his comlink, “did you cover the playhouse last night?” he asked John.

“We’re doing it now,” John said.

“Thank you. I will be out…”

“Don’t worry about it. Janice told us. Tend to your wife,” John said and disconnected the call.

“Well, at least we can play games with the kids,” Victoria smiled, “and you can frustrate your daughter at checkers again.”

When the couple went downstairs, they found Alessa and Lutia playing Yahtzee with the twins.

“There’s some pancake batter left in the fridge,” Alessa said. “I can whip you two up some breakfast.”

“Nah. I’ve got it. What time did my two little campers wake up this morning?” Victoria said, giving each of the twins a kiss.

“I think they smelled breakfast cooking,” Lutia smiled, “because when we started serving it, they showed up.”

“Still tired,” Mik’kenna said.

“Your mother did not sleep well last night. Perhaps after breakfast the three of you can go upstairs and get a little more sleep. We are not going to be able to work on our construction projects today.”

“Everyone in barn,” Ky’nayth said, “Uncle John no let us go. Said building stuff and dangerous for us.”

“And since both of you are still yawning, your reflexes will probably be a little slow, so Uncle John was correct, it is safer for you in here,” Zy’nayth said.

After their breakfast, Victoria and the kids went up to the master bedroom to go back to sleep. Zy’nayth went to the barn to check on the playhouse construction and found that all of the sections for the house were complete and just needed to be installed.

“So what I decided,” Ja’val said, “was to make a couple of dog houses.” He pointed to the schematic on his tablet. “Here on the north side, facing the main house’s patio, we’re building two dog houses. Both large enough to accommodate four sprawling dogs. I’ve also added this outside staircase to the rooftop play area. I figured we’d need a way for us bigger kids to get up top if needed, plus this will allow the dogs to get up there, which we know the kids would want.

“There are a couple other adjustments I’d like to make and David thinks we have enough supplies to do it, or is willing to run in and get them if we don’t. But this wasn’t something I felt comfortable changing without your approval.”

“What do you propose?”

“Well, the house is great for their age and size now. And probably for another year or two. But if we made each floor a bit taller, it could be utilized for a longer time. By the time Baby Chapman and my baby will be old enough to play in it, Ky and Kenna will be too big.”

“We have already constructed the walls.”

“Yes, but that’s easily fixed. See, we can keep the walls as they are, and just add either several horizontal rows between the two floors, like this,” he showed a rendering of what it would look like, “or build a vertical half-wall with decorative slats, and add it between floors, like this. I like the vertical slats, myself. It also adds more light into the house.”

“I prefer the vertical slats as well. Will the door and ladders need to be adjusted?”

“Unfortunately, yes. The ladders are easy enough.”

“As for the door, David had a couple of good ideas,” Kaven said.

“First, I figured out what I can do with the old wood from the garage. I’m going furniture and planter boxes. And Alessa’s going to make a cushions and pillows for…”

“I do not want moldy furniture,” Zy’nayth said. “I like the idea but…”

“It’s okay,” David said, stopping Zy’nayth from continuing, “she’s going to use the same material used on patio furniture. It won’t matter if it gets wet. When it gets dirty, it can be pulled out, wiped down or hosed off. Easy.”

“He also suggested,” Kaven continued, “that we put a doggie door in.”

“A doggie door?” Zy’nayth asked.

“Nothing more than a cutout in the door with a flap to let the dogs come and go as they please.”

“I wonder if we could put one of those on the main house?” Zy’nayth considered.

“Probably, but those are beautifully carved doors,” David said, “I’d hate to cut a hole in them. Though they do make a sliding patio door that has pre-built pet doors in them.”

“I will look into that,” Zy’nayth said. “Thank you.”

Chris was snickering, “The kids and dogs are so spoiled. Look at this, a two-story playhouse with a balcony and a roof deck and attached dog houses so that the dogs will have their own little lounge area.”

“You must admit,” Zy’nayth said, “the children do not really have anything to do here with the exception of the agility course for the dogs and the basketball hoop you put up for them. I did not realize how little there was for them to play with. Those games you taught them last night, they loved it. Thank you for thinking about them.”

“No problem,” John said. “I happened to think of it and how much fun I had with my family sitting around, being lazy, and playing games. And really, I think we all enjoyed it as much as the kids.”

“I did,” Becket said, “the next time the girls head into town, they should try and find more of those. There has to be some sort of toy shop that carries retro games like that.”

“That’s where I found these,” John said, “on one of the trips we made out to finish up the tunnel. But enough of all this, let’s get this thing built. Any idea of when the rain’s gonna stop?”

“Early afternoon,” Ja’val said, “this is the worst of it. It looks like it’ll just be drizzle after the next hour. At least I hope so. I don’t want the ground too wet when we assemble this thing.”

“If you want,” Lutia said, “since Alessa needs to get material to make cushions, we could head into town and look for more games, too.”

“I know where the store is that carries them,” John said, “if you guys don’t mind losing a construction worker for a bit.”

“We’re almost done except for the vertical addition, the door, and the furniture,” Ja’val said. “I think we can handle it.”

“Don’t forget potting soil for the flower boxes,” David said.

“Then let’s go wrap this up,” John said. “Lia, Janice, why don’t you two come along? You might see something to help decorate the place.”

“I’d hate to leave Victoria alone.”

“Victoria will hopefully sleep until you are back,” Zy’nayth said. “Go and enjoy a little time away from here.”

“Be’atta, you have to come to,” John said, “rules.”

***

Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna came walking downstairs, rubbing their eyes. “Mommy, you no wake us up,” Mik’kenna said.

“I think you two needed a little extra sleep.”

“Where is everyone?” Ky’nayth asked.

“Uncle John took the ladies into town, and the men are working in the barn. Want to play a game of Yahtzee?”

“Yeah! But I rather work with Daddy. I help. I good worker.”

“I know you are, but Daddy doesn’t want to have to worry about you getting hurt.”

“Daddy worry too much,” Mik’kenna said as got the score pads for her and her brother ready.

Ky’nayth was still pouting as he took the cup.

Victoria tapped her comlink, “Carson,” she answered. “Oh, hi, John.”

“I’m going to treat these lovely ladies to a nice lunch, so we’ll be gone longer than expected, so don’t expect us for lunch and let the others know, please.”

“Take your time.” She disconnected the call then called her husband to let him know what was going on. Then she went back to the game with her kids.

“I think that since they aren’t going to be around for lunch, we could do something a little less formal,” she said to Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna. “What do you two think about tacos or fajitas?”

Mik’kenna wanted tacos and Ky’nayth wanted fajitas. Victoria chuckled.

When Zy’nayth walked into the kitchen to see if his wife needed help with anything, both Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna were standing on chairs each at a different stove. Ky’nayth was tending to the meat for the fajitas, Mik’kenna for the tacos. Victoria was right beside them chopping up the vegetables and preparing the other toppings.

“We’re doing just fine,” she said, “lunch should be ready in about ten minutes. I’m just setting out everything on my beautiful new island here, and everyone can fix what they want. We can just hang out in the living room. Paper plates and cups.”

Zy’nayth took a strawberry from a bowl on the counter, “I will have everyone head in.” As he left, Victoria sent the kids to wash up while she finished up the last of the preparations.

“So how’s the project coming?” Victoria asked as they all settled in the living room.

“We’re done, at least until John gets back,” Kol’non said. “Just need to do the assembly work. I think we’ll be able to do that in the morning.”

“Can we help?” Ky’nayth asked again.

“We may need your help to drive the tractor to tow the various sections from the barn. You and your sister could take turns,” Zy’nayth said.

“We be really careful,” Ky’nayth said, “promise.”

“Ky’nayth, do you think I did not want you to help because I thought you were not careful?”

The boy nodded. “It’s cuz I got splinter. I no careful ‘nough.”

Zy’nayth set his food aside and knelt down beside his son who was sitting on the floor. “Son, that is not the reason. I know you and your sister are both very careful, and you are both very good helpers. But this was a project that I did not want you to work on.”

“Why?” Ky’nayth was almost in tears and it tore at his father’s heart.

“This is a special project,” Zy’nayth said, “it is a surprise for you and Mik’kenna. A gift from all of us.”

“A present?” Mik’kenna asked.

“Yes,” Zy’nayth said, “and I would really like it to be a surprise. So would you two stay inside tomorrow morning and play games while we put it together for you?”

“No drive tractor?” Ky’nayth said.

“If you want to, you may, but it might ruin the surprise.”

“I stay inside,” Ky’nayth answered, “I like surprise.”

“Me too,” Mik’kenna said then took a bite of her potato-laden taco.

“Thank you,” Zy’nayth said, “I think you two will be glad you did.”

May 8, 2120

The next day, just after lunch had been cleaned up, the kids were led outside to see this present that they were being given. Sheets had been hung around the area once the rain stopped and the tarps were taken down so that the kids couldn’t catch an accidental glimpse of what was being constructed. Both were curious beyond belief and wanted nothing more than for their father to tell them it was time to see their present.

“Okay, Aunt Amelia and Uncle Ny’van, you can pull down the sheets,” Zy’nayth said as everyone stood ready to see the kids’ reaction. When the sheets came down both kids screeched with delight.

“A playhouse,” Chris said, “with a jungle gym, a couple of dog houses, and hopefully hours of fun. Now, this is for you and all the kids who come here. When the new babies get old enough, you two will have to show them all of the fun stuff they can do in here.”

“Thank you for the house,” Mik’kenna said, “can we look inside?”

“Go on in,” Ja’val said, “I hope you like it.”

“Uncle Ja’val designed it,” Zy’nayth said.

Ky’nayth looked around at everyone and began to cry. “I sorry for being angry yesterday. I just want to help. I no know you build dis for us.”

Zy’nayth knelt down and hugged his son, “I should have told you the truth,” he said, “I love you. We all love you.”

“That’s right, buddy,” John said, “all of us here love you and your sister very much. I didn’t even know you were angry. Now get in there and check out your new house.”

“Thank you, everybody,” the boy said as he wiped away his tears. “Can puppies go inside?”

“There’s a doggie door,” David pointed, “they can go in and out whenever they want. And over there, a couple of dog houses.”

“Come on, Bubby,” Mik’kenna said as she took his hand, “I wanna see!”

The kids ran around the outside and investigated all of the nooks and crannies and the jungle gym. The dogs followed the kids, sniffing everything.

“Your houses,” Mik’kenna said as they looked at the two large doghouses. “Look! They put new toys in there for you!”

The dogs were too excited to play with their new toys. Instead they continued to follow the two kids into the house. Both kids again squealed with delight. They loved the four little rooms, their little sofa, the little lanterns in each room, everything that the adults had come up with. They climbed up the ladder to the second floor and examined each room, then walked out onto the balcony over the doghouses. “Hi Daddy!” Mik’kenna waved.

“Can I try the slide?” Ky’nayth asked, pointing to the slide attached to the balcony. Ja’val had wanted to attach it to the rooftop play area, but Zy’nayth didn’t want it up that high.

“That’s what it’s there for,” David said.

Each kid took a turn and slid down then ran back inside and up to the second floor and did it again. Then they went up on the roof deck. There were two deck chairs, just their size with a table, and a couple of flower boxes, already filled with petunias. Be’atta had put together a little gardening kit for them: a watering can, trowel, gloves, and of course, little hats for both of them. On the west side of the rooftop was a set of steps. The dogs were shown the steps and they bounced up to the rooftop and began to investigate.

Both kids went back down and gave hugs and kisses to everyone, thanking them for their house.

“Can we bring sleepy bags out?” Ky’nayth asked. “Camp tonight?”

“It is a little too cool out,” Zy’nayth said, “But if it warms up tomorrow, you may.”

Victoria said, pointing towards the dogs’ houses, “there are more flower pots. Aunt Alessa didn’t put anything in those, but she did buy flowers to teach you how to properly plant them.”

“We do that now!” Ky’nayth said.

The kids grabbed their gardening tools then ran to the new flowerpots. “You know, maybe I should look into getting a greenhouse,” Victoria said to her husband. “They have pre-fab ones I could buy. It wouldn’t take you long to put it together.”

“Me? Put together? What is a greenhouse?” Zy’nayth asked.

“You know those big enclosures behind the main Ag building and the Botany research area?”

“The one with the glass walls and roofs?”

“Yeah. Those are greenhouses. If we put one here, and if we’re going to be spending more time here or our family members are, it might be nice to have a small one for fresh herbs, maybe tomato plants,” she smiled at him. Tomatoes were a favorite of his. “Even a little strawberry patch we could have the year round.” She waved off the thought. “But we probably won’t be here enough to justify it. That and keeping it in shape. It’s hard enough to keep my little garden on the island free of weeds.” When Zy’nayth hadn’t replied, she looked away from the twins and into his silver eyes, “What is it?”

“Food.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “When we start the mass distribution of the serum…Victoria, my people do not have farms or greenhouses or gardens. They do not grow food. How could I have overlooked such a basic thing? They do not know how to cook. We have people who slaughter animals because we use the skins for leather, but they do not know how to properly butcher a cow for food. They do not raise chickens.” He stood, “Excuse me.”

He went over to Ny’van, then drew the other Rayth together at the picnic table and told them of this horrible revelation he’d just had.

“First of all,” Ja’val said, “we’re not going to be able to distribute to the masses all at once. It’s going to have to be done a little at a time. Remember, each individual needs to be tested first to find the appropriate dose until I can find and be sure of a common dose that will work for each generation of Rayth. I’m gearing up to handle a thousand people at a time, but there’s no way I could even begin to distribute to all Rayth at once. I have to train other scientists how to figure out dosage, how to administer the serum, side effects, and so on. So we have time.”

Ny’van looked at Zy’nayth, “We could offer it to one planet, one city, at a time. Set up a schedule for when Ja’val and his team would go to that world.”

“And since it’ll take a few months to get enough serum made up to do this,” Ja’val said, “you could talk to Vince and Dr. Castor and Dr. Wells about going to these planets and villages and showing them how to farm and raise livestock.”

“We do have several Rayth who have been working with the Ag and Botany teams,” Kol’non said, “myself included, who could also help.”

“The question then is could Vince spare those teams? And what would it cost?” Ny’van asked.

“Cost is not an issue,” Zy’nayth said with a wave of his hand. “However, getting seeds, animals, and such…that will be an issue. Not even Terra 2 is self-sufficient with their small farm. Certainly not with livestock as I have heard it repeatedly talked about.”

“Which would mean working with humans in the galaxy, those we’ve gathered for millennia,” Kol’non sighed. “They might not be willing. Look at Be’atta’s people. They wouldn’t help us for all of the money in your treasury.”

Zy’nayth caught John’s eye and motioned him to get the rest of his team. He gave them a quick synopsis of the situation. “Please contact Vince and arrange for a meeting when we return. Those here at this table as well as Alessa, Dr. Wells, and Dr. Castor. Jack Burgeon also.”

“Jack? Our Chief Civil Engineer? What for?” John asked.

“Victoria mentioned greenhouses. I will at least need to know how they work and how to build them. He can advise us. Once I know that, I can have my manufacturers build them.”

“Ah, good point. All right,” he said. “Be’atta, Kaven, think about villages that might be open to helping us.”

“None,” Kaven said. “You’re talking about helping Rayth, they’ll balk. Every one of them.”