* * *
“So you were the computer, and now you're human?” Damon asked, trying to make sense of the much longer explanation.
“For the sake of simplicity, yes,” Constanthos replied.
“Don't feel bad, Damon,” Frank added. “I don't understand the technical part either. But Connie has saved my ass on multiple occasions. That was all her on the circle in Indy.”
“I saw some rough footage of that on the internet,” Damon said. “You didn't take credit because you were laying low. I think I get it.”
“I didn't even know at the time.” Frank was interrupted by his phone going off. “Sometimes I want to meet the person that invented text messaging and have a little talk with them.” He looked over the messages that were coming in at a fast rate. “Shit.”
“What is it?” Constanthos asked.
“Stan is being forced to resign and his replacement is going to expel me.”
“They can do that?” Damon asked. “I need to read up on that shit.”
“Me too,” Constanthos said.
“Don't bother.” Frank didn't look up. “It probably wouldn't do any good. There are people pulling the strings. Stan is in fear for his life.”
“Stan is our friend.” Everyone was surprised by the orb and the voice of Gladys. “We should find somewhere safe to move him to.”
“Damn,” Frank replied. “We need to prepare. The pirates will be back to Hitakkita before we move a president.”
“Have one of our friends get a phone,” Gladys said. “We'll get it to Phildan and when Stan is ready, Phildan can pick him up and move him.”
“Phil's really staying?” Damon asked.
“Yes,” Gladys replied. “Pock has an idea for an early warning system and asked Phildan to help him. Pock insists on completing this project to honor Denise, and protect her people.”
Damon paused and then nodded. “Yep. I knew I liked that bug.” He swallowed hard. Although he had lost a lot of friends over the years, the news of Denise's death had hit him hard. He looked over at Frank and it suddenly occurred to him that his friend, this civilian that had been thrust into this insane position, was feeling it on a much greater scale. Frank's blank eyes were speaking volumes.
“Where are we?” Frank asked.
“We're parked right over Clyde's,” Constanthos replied.
“Will you be joining us?”
“I have too much work to do.” Constanthos looked at her data pad. “The way is clear. It's early afternoon.”
“Thank you, Connie.” Frank started for the hall but paused. “What are you working on?”
“I have to add that modification to your sword. And I want to work on the halo.”
Frank nodded. “When this is over, you'll need a long vacation.”
The notion of a vacation was almost enough to make Constanthos smile.
17.
“You'll be safe on your ship, Wold. My centurion will handle everything.”
Wold gulped. “Berthantine, you understand this is outside of my usual line of work.”
“That didn't stop you before.” Her smile was unrelenting and he was looking forward to overthrowing her.
“I might have overstepped some boundaries. That was a long time ago.”
“Wold, I am giving you a great opportunity. There is a small gathering scheduled. Leaders from Sungara and Lioven will be meeting with the Mother of Rhoshe. You can take over three civilizations at once.”
Wold's thoughts were coming quickly now. He didn't understand exactly what her process did, but it worked. After all of these years, he was ready to erase the biggest embarrassment of his reign. “Yes. I think I like the sound of that. When shall I leave?”
* * *
Frank held the door for Damon and the two men entered Clyde's. Robert, Michelle, and Terrelle stood up from their bar stools nearly in unison and Sammie stopped wiping the bar when he noticed. Their somber expressions affected Frank more than he was willing to show.
“Hey guys,” Robert said as he was the first to come forward. To Frank's surprise, the big man grabbed him in an embrace. “How are you holding up, Frank?”
“I, uh, I'm good.” Frank was set free and then Michelle grabbed him.
“She was the sweetest lady I have ever known,” she said. “I wish I was able to know her better.”
Frank fought through the lump that was forming in his throat. “She was truly special.” Michelle let go of him and Terrelle stepped over. Instead of a hug, he only clasped Frank's shoulder.
“I've seen that look on your face before,” Terrelle started. “I really thought you might try to kill me at the time.”
“I'll admit the thought did cross my mind,” Frank said. He was joking although his expression didn't show it. But Terrelle understood. Frank glanced over and took note of the respect Robert and Damon were showing each other. They were like brothers.
“I see now why you wanted some sunglasses,” Terrelle said, snapping Frank back to attention.
“Yeah. We haven't had a chance to see what's up with my eyes. I guess they've been going white whenever I weaponize my shield.” Frank looked over at the bar. “Hey, Sammie.”
“Damn, Frank. You been lifting? I'm sorry to hear about Denise. She was a real nice gal.”
Frank gave an abbreviated head shake. “No, I haven't really been lifting. And thanks. How about you set me up with something strong?” Frank made his way to the bar and stood instead of sitting.
“Sure thing,” Sammie replied. “Any preferences.”
“Let's go with some 151 in a glass. Keep it neat, and keep the bottle handy.” Frank watched as Sammie fulfilled the order and then picked up the glass and quickly drained it. He set the glass down and gestured for a refill.
Michelle was unfazed by Frank's display. “We got the clothes you asked for.” She pointed to a pile of bags that were sitting on a table.
“That seems like an awful lot of bags.” Frank drained another glass.
Michelle offered a warm smile. “I took the liberty of buying some for Connie and Nera too. I even got something for Gladys. I totally had to guess the sizes. I hope they fit.”
Frank took pause. “That was very thoughtful. I'm sure they will be fine.” He tried to smile and it almost worked. “I guessed at my size too. We very well may end up flying around the galaxy in ill-fitting clothes.” He drained another glass and then walked over to the table and dug through the bags until he found his jeans. There were only a couple of other patrons in the bar and they seemed occupied with their drinks so he didn't feel too foolish when he starting dressing himself right in the middle of the room. The carpenter jeans fit well enough over his varitherm and he then dug some more until he found the belt. “I figured right. Or right enough. I knew the waist size would have to be pretty big to get over these tree trunks.”
“Have you shrunk at all yet?” Robert asked.
“I haven't really been measuring,” Frank replied as he searched for the hoodie. He was pleased to find that it was gray. He slipped it on and then put on the sunglasses. “How do I look?”
“You look like a really big Uni-bomber,” Sammie answered.
Frank turned and looked at himself in the mirror behind the bar. He looked ridiculous. “Perfect. Thank you, everyone.” He went back to the bar for another drink. “How is the house hunting going?”
“There's two places that look good,” Michelle replied. “One is pretty far away, but it's very remote. There's woods everywhere. The other one is really nice too, but it's surrounded by fields.”
“It sits a ways off the road,” Robert added.
“Are they corn fields?” Frank asked.
“Yes,” Michelle replied.
“Being off the road is good,” Frank said, mostly thinking out loud. “Being in the woods could potentially be an issue for a boat. We broke through the canopy on Nuun though, but we didn't actually land in the forest. Hmm. Just pick whichever one you like. You are going to live there,
not me.”
Robert nodded at Michelle. She smiled and said, “The one with the fields has a detached six-car garage with a huge apartment above it. There is also several other out-buildings. It costs a lot more money, but it's closer and we can house guests.”
Frank removed his sunglasses and looked at her. “I want you to know something. The only reason I mentioned it needing to be boat-accessible is so we can come by for a visit. You guys are starting a family, not a base.”
Michelle's expression shifted. “Look, Frank, we are in this shit whether you like it or not. Those motherfuckers came here to our planet and killed our friend. Those other motherfuckers tried to take this whole bitch over. You need people who got your back, and the pussy-ass government ain't cutting it.” She crossed her arms and gave him a defiant look.
Frank nodded. “I can see hiring you was one of my better decisions.” He glanced at Robert, who seemed to be trying to think of something to say. He gave up and remained silent. “Go for the one with the cornfields. See what you can do to hurry the process along. You might have some guests soon.”
“Oh, yeah?” Robert replied.
“Who?” Michelle asked.
“Stan,” Frank answered. “He thinks he may be in danger. And later the Stewart's will need a place to stay while they re-acclimate themselves.” He tried to gauge their reaction and was pleased when they seemed agreeable. With a half-smile, he turned to Terrelle. “That brings us to the next order of business.”
“Is this an attorney thing?” Terrelle asked.
“Yeah. I kinda abducted Dorothy Stewart.”
* * *
“How long are you going to make me wait?” Brad asked, staring at the laptop that was just sitting on the edge of Deon's work table.
“I thought we should set up another scan first. You know, the shit we're getting paid for.”
“This is only the most exciting day of my life, Worm.”
“That's pretty sad.”
Brad rolled his wheelchair closer. “I don't get out much. I didn't even know about the invasion until it was over. I mean, I know it's no big deal to you since you already know the guy, but he's like a superhero.”
Deon looked away from the screen. “You know, Wheelz, I suppose he is. I can tell you he probably don't want to hear that shit though.” He picked up the laptop and moved it to where they could both see it and then turned to dig around in a nearby tote. “I refuse to use a track-pad. Ah, here we go.” He had located a computer mouse and plugged it in. He pressed the power button and after a few moments they were greeted by a photo of Frank. He was shirtless, holding a shovel and glistening with sweat.
“That's not weird or anything,” Brad said.
“I have a feeling he didn't know he was being photographed,” Deon added with a chuckle.
“So, this lady... Were they an item?”
“I don't know, Wheelz. But it ain't none of my business. I'll just say that if they were, Frank is a lucky, lucky man.”
“So she was hot? You'd have to be to hook up with a superhero.”
Deon closed his eyes and tried to center himself. “She was very pretty. But she was also very nice.” He was looking for the file. “I think this might be it. Shall we?”
“We shall.”
* * *
“Wide port? Damn, that sucks, Frank.” Damon was smiling when he said it.
Frank just shook his head and gave a half-smile. “We'll put your gear in the living room for now. Sleeping arrangements will have to be figured out later.” He picked up a couple of Damon's bags and started around the corridor.
“Have you taken to sleeping?” Damon asked as he grabbed the rest and followed.
“No. Nera has been using my bed.” He felt the lump coming back as he thought about how Denise had been using it too. He entered the living room and found a place near the couch to place the gear.
“I'm fine with sleeping on the couch if it's not claimed,” Damon said. “I'm just happy to be here.”
“We're glad to have you,” Frank replied.
“So, what were Jones's duties?”
“He'd advise mostly. I guess he was refilling the torpedoes too. And I understand he was shooting out of the ports.”
“Oh yeah? How'd he do?”
“To be honest, I was kinda busy at the time. He and Phil seemed pleased though.” Frank looked around. “I assume we're about to dock. Let's go find Connie.” Damon followed as he made his way back toward the workshop. “Hey, Connie.”
“Hey, Frank.” She turned to face him and put on a friendly face. “We'll be docking soon.”
“Great. I feel like Damon deserves a more formal introduction. Our conversation was cut short earlier.”
She gave a genuine smile as she approached Damon. “I feel like I've known you a while already.” She extended her hand as she had seen Frank do on several occasions.
Damon accepted her hand and was surprised at the strength of her grip. “I know that was you that bailed us out. I owe you one.”
“It was my pleasure,” she replied.
“She's bailed us out more than once,” Frank added. “How's it going in here?”
“I don't have Phildan's finesse,” she replied. “But once I have the halo ready, I'll have plenty of hands.” She picked up the data pad and pressed a spot. “Gladys asked me to drive so she can greet you. You better run. I'll be along soon.”
“Okay. Don't overdo it.” Frank placed his hand on her shoulder and she felt like she could melt. “We'll see you soon.” Frank led Damon out of the shop and back around and into the living room.
“Wow, Frank. I didn't expect her to be so pretty.”
“She had plenty of input with the construction of her body. Sessik ideas of beauty aren't too far from ours.”
Damon paused and stared at Frank.
“What?”
“You're different now, Frank. You seem wiser or something.”
“I wouldn't go that far. But you've seemed to have mellowed out, if you don't mind me saying.”
Damon looked thoughtful. “Ever since I left Main Ship, I've felt more calm. It's like I'm at ease.”
“You can thank Cindy for that,” Frank said. “I don't know how it works, but she can take a lot of your pain away. You guys have seen some shit, I know.” He was interrupted by the door panel sliding open. He reached up to remove his sunglasses as Gladys and Cindy came into view.
* * *
Constanthos finished constructing the halo just as she had helped Phildan do before. She placed it on her head to perform a test run. Accessing a parked remote from the other end of the boat, she was able to see Frank and Damon being greeted. She chuckled to herself over Damon's reaction to meeting Gladys in person for the first time. Powering down the remote, she then performed a system scan to make sure everything was functioning properly. Satisfied, she set two automechs in motion to perform the modification to Frank's sword. A third automech was commissioned to make adjustments to the computational systems of the boat itself in order to increase the range of the halo. She wanted to be free to move about as she was plugged in. All of this took a fraction of the vast attention span she possessed while communing with the computer. The temptation was there, and although she promised herself she wouldn't, she accessed Frank's latest memory upload.
* * *
“Are you in need?” Cindy asked, clasping her hand over her necklace. The greetings were over and Gladys had led Damon to her lab to perform that procedure that would allow him to visit other worlds without transmitting anything.
“Thank you, but I'm going to hold on to this.”
Cindy paused and looked thoughtful. “I can feel it in you. But I know you find it useful for now.” She glanced over to where Nera was standing off in the distance. “She wouldn't let go of it either. I'm afraid it will consume her.”
Nera hadn't taken part of the greeting and Frank was working out in his mind just what to say to her. “I'm going to talk to her.”
&
nbsp; “She is out for blood. I'm afraid your whole dynamic has changed.”
Frank then realized he had lost two wives. “I sure as hell didn't want it to go like this.”
“Now we know why it's called a curse.”
“Indeed.” Frank found himself once again battling the lump in his throat as he excused himself from Cindy. He made his way to the path that led to where Nera was standing. She was standing cross-armed, staring at the same bench he had when Gladys was taken. When she turned to look at him, he saw a sloppy black mask painted on her face. “We can stop by Nuun and get you some proper paint.” He knew better than to try to embrace her although he wanted nothing more than to comfort her.
“The paint is of no real significance. It suited my mood before as it suits it now.”
“It's not going to be easy,” Frank said.
She turned to look at him and only then noticed his eyes. Her expression changed. “What isn't going to be easy?”
“I assume you are wanting to find whoever is responsible.”
She nodded. “Yes. I will have my revenge.”
“Me too. But I'm pretty sure a Sessik is responsible.” He saw a considerable slump of disappointment in her.
“I will find a way.”
“I want to help. But it is hard to prioritize revenge when there are so many other lives possibly hanging in the balance.” He gestured toward his boat. She turned in time to see an automech pushing an unconscious Dorothy Stewart toward the lab. “She watched her husband and daughter get taken and then no one believed her. They put her in a place for mentally ill people. But I know they are alive and I am going to reunite them.”
She only stared.
“There is another human world that is in trouble. Korick and the Li had a deal worked out. The galaxy thinks everyone is dead but the Gotes have really been taking them to Vera.”
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