He put an arm around her as he guided her into the airport. “I was worried when Elija contacted me and told me your visit had turned dangerous.”
“Merek was nearly killed.” She realized she trembled when she spoke. “That Marmot was ferocious!”
“You encountered a Marmot?”
“A mother and her cub.”
He stiffened. “How did you get exposed to such dangerous wild animals?”
“It wasn’t deliberate. It just happened. Have you heard anything new about Merek’s condition?”
Richard squeezed her shoulder. “Elija says Merek will recover. Hopefully, he’ll return soon. Luttrell assures me that he has a strong constitution. The doctor plans to fly from Earth2 to the Homestead and see to his care.”
A sigh escaped her. She hadn’t realized how worried she’d been. Inside, a tightness eased at the announcement.
As they exited Tygel Airport, a car pulled up.
“We’ll soon have you home,” he promised.
She let herself be bundled into the car as the familiar city of Tygel bustled about them. Images of the stunning waterfall, the colorful meadow, and the deep green forests floated in her mind and blurred into a distant dream.
No one mentioned microchips. He had the grace not to interrogate her immediately. She leaned back into the seat, as the city enclosed her, and the car sped her home.
***
However, the next day proved different. Trace himself came to visit. Amanda joined them, anxious to hear about Merek. In the night, Elise had decided to hand over the microchips more because of curiosity rather than betrayal. Something had happened to her, and she wanted to know what. She had awakened in that bed, woozy, possibly with her memory intentionally altered. A disturbing image danced just beyond her consciousness.
She could recount in detail events up to the picnic. She had a hazy recollection of the attack, and then everything became disjointed.
But as the microchips spooled out their images on Richard’s monitor, greater details became apparent. Both Trace and Richard showed interest in the table bots. Elija’s progress in both the clean air facility construction and the advancement in his robot research amazed them. She’d forgotten to wear the pin at that first dinner, so a record of Carter’s clone was absent, and she kept it that way.
The trip in the flitter revealed stunning vistas, which elicited increasing waves of anger from Richard. After several frames from the mountain’s crest, Richard shot bolt upright and turned to her. “Taking you that high up on that ridge was foolhardy and dangerous. You could have been caught in a wind shear, slammed into the mountain by a cross-draft, or experienced a malfunction in that flimsy vehicle. You might have easily died on that mountain top.”
Looking at it from his point of view, she had to agree, but remembering the exhilaration of the ride, she was glad she’d gone. She patted his knee to calm him. “I’m fine.”
“A miracle,” he muttered.
Suddenly, the marmots’ attack abruptly transformed the idyllic scene of the meadow into a jumble of chaotic images. Yelling, popping stun guns, and bestial roars, all formed a confusing montage. Her sobbing, as she wrapped a bandage, and unknown hands pulling her out of the flitter recorded a disastrous series of events.
Amanda jumped up with a cry and tore from the room when she saw Merek’s blood-soaked body being carried away.
The camera jerked around as Elise turned to pan the room. Trace leaned into the monitor to watch, and gasped.
She heard her voice ask, “What is this place?” And before them on the monitor a vast collection of labs, offices, and manufacturing facilities spread across the screen.
Trace leaped up. “Frag! What’s going on in there?”
Richard gaped. “It looks like they’ve built an extensive series of manufacturing and science labs.”
But behind the camera, a voice spoke, and as the lens turned to face the voice, Elise gasped, “Who are you?”
For standing in front of her was a replicant, identical to her in every way, speaking in a voice similar to hers, but it was something not human. Certainly not alive.
Chapter 14
Revelation
Trace leaned into the monitor, staring at the startling image.
“My money is on it being an android.”
Elise choked, “It looks just like me!” Her hair stood up along her arms and neck to think a robot existed that resembled her that much. Her mind churned with emotions of disgust, horror, and curiosity.
“So lifelike,” Richard choked out.
His intent expression chilled her.
“It’s not alive,” she protested. “It’s not me.”
How could he possibly even think that?
Trace’s worried voice asked, “If they’re capable of making something so real like this, what else can they make?” His finger tapped the screen, freezing the image.
Richard pushed his chair back. “Could Carter do that?” He glanced at Elise for verification.
“Most likely,” she admitted. “He’s capable of it.”
Trace put a hand on Richard’s arm. “We need to know if the Homestead has other androids of any sort.”
Elise’s brow wrinkled in thought. “I didn’t notice any, but robots this lifelike might be nearly impossible to identify. I realized he was working on advanced robotics, but never considered he would do this.”
Trace’s dark eyes became worried. His elegant hands rubbed the arm of the chair. “So apparently, the Homestead has the technology. What if they choose to build a series of androids, but different from this one?”
Richard knitted his brow. “How different?”
“A soldier version,” Trace suggested. “Now, we have the greater military presence, but if Terrans can build robotic soldiers, I shudder to think what we would face.”
“It might not be that.” Elise shook her head. “Carter had a love relationship with my mother. I look just like her. Given his expertise, he may have constructed a one-off.”
“Fate, that’s a disturbing thought.” Richard exchanged a look with Trace. Both shifted uncomfortably.
“Not if you know Carter.” Else’s lips pursed. “He was quite intent on perfecting his robots. Creating a realistic copy of the Commander would provide an exciting challenge, but after all is said and done, the android is at the Homestead, and Carter is on the space station. For some reason, he left it behind.”
“A love bot? Is there anyone else with the skill to build a lifelike android?” Richard cocked his head at Elise.
She shook her head. “At the moment, I can’t think of anyone. There is the possibility that he’s trained others at the Homestead. I can’t say, but the possibility may exist.”
“Maybe Merek can ferret out more information.” Trace stood up and gathered the microchips. “Could either of you convince John to keep him there a little longer and ask both of them to investigate further?”
Elise rose from her seat and faced Trace. “Don’t expect John to support your Alysian side. Or Merek. Both are Terran. John has doctored us through plagues, battles, and a multitude of crises. He stayed here to help the Terrans survive on this world. He clearly supports us.”
Richard leaned in. “And, Elise is right about not relying on Merek to act against Terrans.”
Elise started to walk away but stopped and swung around. “Merek is loyal to me. He’d walk through vacuum for me. I just have to make sure I do the right thing for all concerned.” She spun around, heading for the door.
They ushered out a concerned Trace.
***
“Stop pacing, Elise.” Amanda looked up from the blue baby blanket she was knitting as she sat in Richard’s living room.
Elise swung around and headed back to the wide, comfortable burgundy sofa where Amanda sat. “How do you manage to stay so calm? I can’t just hang around here and do nothing.” The spacious home felt claustrophobic.
Her friend looked up. “I’m knitting. It keeps me
occupied. I’m also thinking of starting up my interface network again. I need more social contact.”
Elise sighed. Gazing out a window, she said, “I need to get out, move around. How about we go to Tygel? It’s not far. My comm unit was damaged in the accident, but Elija gave me the name of a tech store where I can purchase a new one. We can check it out.”
Amanda’s eyes narrowed. “Richard would never allow you to go alone. Not after what happened to Alexa.”
Elise waved a hand. “Richard doesn’t own me. I’ll take a stunner for protection. Besides, you’ll go with me.”
“Me! Why would I want to go to Tygel?”
“They just got in all the latest Fall fashions.” Elise raised an eyebrow. “We can bring Mika along as bodyguard and chauffeur. We’ll have fun.”
The baby blue blanket dropped into Amanda’s lap. “Fun,” she said. She pursed her lips and made a humming noise.
Elise smiled. “I’ll make arrangements for the kids, and even buy lunch.”
“At Descant’s, that downtown fancy restaurant?”
“Sure.”
“Moving the blanket aside, Amanda stood up and brushed at her lap. “I’ve been wanting to get a top made from that shimmery material Deuce showed me.” Amanda tapped her lips in thought.
“The one made from ark strands?”
“Yes, I would love a top or dress made from that.” Amanda started picking up her knitting and packing it away. She stopped and regarded Elise. “Richard won’t be happy.”
“My husband is at I.N.Sys with Trace and the President, examining the microchips I brought back. He’ll be too wrapped up in his politics to notice we’re gone. Besides, he owes me for bringing him vital information on the Homestead.”
“Lunch at Descant’s and a new dress or top?”
“Yes. My treat. Don’t forget my comm. We buy that first. Should I call Mika and make reservations? It’ll help get your mind off worrying about Merek.”
“Nothing can do that ... but .... Make sure the kids are taken care of, then, yes, call. I’m going to get dressed in a hot outfit, not the old ship shifts I’ve been wearing. Let’s dress up for this. I’ve been wanting to feel like a fancy woman for a while now.”
Elise grinned and stretched. “You’re on. I might even find something exciting to wear myself.”
***
She chuckled at Mika’s wide-eyed gape when they reconvened. Amanda wore a tight-fitting, cherry-red suit that set off her curvaceous figure while Elise stunned them with a figure flattering forest green, cap-sleeved dress. The green set off her dark auburn hair and violet eyes.
Elise smiled at her guard’s reaction. “Wow, ladies!” Mika ran a hand over her black trousers and fitted jacket. “I feel downright boring next to you two.”
Elise clapped on a pair of designer sunglasses and handed out two more. “This will protect our eyes from Alysia’s bright sun. Also, a disguise might be a smart idea.”
“Thanks.” Amanda and Mika each donned a pair.
She grinned. “Fabulous.” Elise took one of Mika’s arms while Amanda grabbed the other, and the three strutted out the door. She leaned into her guard. “Mika, you couldn’t be boring if you tried.”
Next to her, Amanda added, “That’s a fact.”
For those ship-raised, Tygel was a daunting city of canals, parks, and tall office buildings. At its center, sat the main seat of government symbolized by an elegant white palace, complete with shining gold dome and spire. Spreading out from there, stately residents sat in elegant neighborhoods. Still further out, the business district bustled with shops and offices, eventually leading to the rougher districts where bars and brothels plied their trade at the river’s edge.
With the help of an on-board computer and Elise’s directions, the three arrived at an out-of-the-way tech shop. Mika parked in front and escorted the ladies in.
Elise surveyed several glass cases of blinking electronics and headed toward a display of comm units.
A disgruntled Alysian with a thick beard and bald head emerged from a back room. He eyed the two and gazed over at Mika, who had positioned herself by the door.
His hand disappeared under the case as he greeted them with a smile. “What can I do for you ladies today?”
Within minutes, the door opened, and three muscular Alysians entered. Jeans, black jackets, and a gold earring in each left ear marked them as trouble.
Mika shifted her stance, placing her hand on her stunner, her gaze riveted on them. They glared back, taking up positions opposite her.
Elise glanced at the three and back to the man. “I was given this address if I ever wanted to send a discreet message to the Homestead.”
“Captain Fujeint?” he questioned flatly.
She raised an eyebrow. “Yes?”
He frowned. “You say you want to send Captain Fujeint a private message?”
“Oh, right. You mean Elija. He told me to come here if I wanted to contact him.”
The man smiled with cold eyes. “We were tipped off that you might be headed this way—Mrs. Steele. Unfortunately, the owner of this store was called away on an urgent errand, but we would be only too glad to offer our hospitality at an alternate location.” The faux proprietor looked over, sending a signal to the three toughs who drew weapons and began to advance on the women.
Mika gripped her stunner and stepped forward to intervene, but realized she wore sunglasses and started to remove them when nearby a voice whispered, “Don’t.”
The eyes of the proprietor went wide as a bright blast of light hit him. The three thugs whirled around, and another burst dropped them. Elise pivoted and threw up her arms to shield her face from the intense glare, grateful for the sunglasses she wore.
A shadowy form stood in silhouette. As the light diminished, the glowing form of Angel became visible.
The back door opened again as an angry Terran stormed in. One of Elija’s lieutenant scowled at her.
“Mrs. Steele,” he addressed her. “So, this was the reason for the sudden emergency elsewhere. I should have known.”
“I needed a new comm and wanted to see if I could get a message to Elija. He gave me this address.”
The Terran squinted at the Enjelise, the men on the floor, and took in the presence of the women. “I can deliver it.” He put out a hand. “Give me your message.”
She shook her head. “Any piece of paper or microchip can be compromised.” She scanned the room. “Is there a secure place we can talk?”
“Not here.” The Terran said, “Come with me.”
“I’m coming too.” Mika stepped forward.
“Better the Enjelise.” Elise pointed at the reviving henchmen. “Watch them, and I’ll be right back.” She left Mika with the moaning thugs, who groped about light-blinded as she followed the owner.
Inside a cramped office, Angel dimmed to normal.
“I thought I would visit.” Elise scratched an arm and removed her sunglasses. “I didn’t expect a kidnapping attempt. Elija said that if I wanted to leave him a covert message that I should come here and talk with someone named James Bond.” She cocked her head. “Seriously?”
The man had the grace to look chagrined. “I always was a fan of those old Earth spy movies.”
“Well, you aren’t alone.” She straightened. “I’m short on time. Tell Elija something valuable is in that mine next to him. Could be gold or diamonds. Trace mentioned a strange crystal. He was furious Richard let the Terrans take over the place. Also, Elija better watch his step. The Alysians won’t countenance a military build up and are aware of the labs. Just wanted to warn him.”
The Terran gave her a steely look. “We’ll do what is necessary in order to survive. Tell Director Walker that.”
She smiled a fake smile. “Okay, I’ll pass it along, but the Homestead would be wise to tread carefully.”
They left three staggering toughs being prodded forward by an angry store owner pointing a stunner.
On the stre
et, she faced Angel. “Now, we don’t have to mention this to Richard, do we?”
His eyes narrowed. “I can’t make any promises.”
“Angel, how can I be a super spy if you rat me out?”
“You may have to revise your calling.”
“It’s the most fun I’ve had in months. We can’t go back yet. All those diapers and bottles and…”
Amanda protested, “No, we can’t. We have reservations at Descant’s.”
Elise grinned at Angel. “See? I can’t let them down. I promised the girls lunch and a shopping spree.”
Mika sidled up to her. “I want to buy something in lace that I know a friend will appreciate.”
Elise and Amanda swung around, eyes wide.
“It’ll be in black, of course,” Mika added. “Nothing too, er, flamboyant ... but with lots of lace.”
Elise laughed. “That settles it. Mika buying black lace. We have to do it. Get in. Let’s not be late for lunch.”
***
Hours later, three laughing women entered the house, only to find Richard with arms crossed and a scowl on his face. The two friends made a hasty exit to their rooms.
But she was prepared.
“Now before you get too angry with me, let me show you what I got. She took him by the arm and from a shopping bag whipped out a shimmering piece of material. “This is made from the fur on the underbelly of an ark.”
Tight-lipped, Richard said, “I’m familiar with it.”
She caressed one of his cheeks with it. “Feel how silky and soft. On Earth, they call this kind of apparel a negligee. Come, and I’ll give you a private fashion show.”
She tugged him toward the bedroom as out of the corner of her eyes, she saw the stiff face relax, its expression changing from anger to one tinged with desire.
As she kicked the bedroom door closed, the name, Mata Hari, popped into her consciousness, and she giggled to herself.
Chapter 15
Spy Hunting
With the morning sun filtering through their bedroom window and onto the bed, Elise put her hands behind her head and gazed up at the ceiling. “By now, you must have concluded that we have an Alysian spy in our household.” She rolled toward Richard.
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