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    Paradox Equation: Part Two
    Paradox Equation: Part Two
    Paradox Equation: Part Two
    Ebook2,404 pages38 hours

    Paradox Equation: Part Two

    By Sharon L Reddy

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    About this ebook

    Paradox Equation is like no other science fiction series in publication. It's a single fast-paced story with many adventures, organized in ten novels, and a family saga. Target Yonder is proud to include Paradox Equation in its Millennium Works Collection.

    Books six through ten of the ten novel science fiction action-adventure masterwork.

    The sons and grandchildren of Gallant choose to follow his way to defend life in the multiverse. As they do, they learn they must create themselves. They must solve the Paradox Equation of their existence.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherSharon L Reddy
    Release dateJun 6, 2011
    ISBN9781310077197
    Paradox Equation: Part Two
    Author

    Sharon L Reddy

    I write science fiction romance, but it's the literary definition of romance. Swashbuckle, Baby, in "white tie and tails." High romantic fantasies, million word mysteries, family sagas, statesmen, gurus and wise immortals. Loving dads, sons and brothers, and of course, the women who understand and appreciate them. High fashion and landscape design. Materials and art, the books are built to be read very fast, specifically for the way women visualize. Research on the soap operas of the fifties, trends in international populist (fan) fiction, technological development, and above all, long-term entertainment value. It has to be good in reruns. The intent is create a body of work that's just fun to read, in spurts or bursts over decades. Ethics, responsibility, nobless oblige, the power of money, the use of prestige. I write good guys win. Period. They're fantasies for women. Men with lots of muscle say, "I love you," a lot.Most of what is currently published was written in the first decade, 1991-1999, before Mother Nature changed my personal definition of "mature audience." I hope you'll remain with me as I and my work mature and enjoy the second decade of my work now being published, as well.I've lived many places and visited far more. My current residence is on a high mesa in New Mexico, in the United States, where I am engaged in a habitat restoration project.Explanation of the Pilots Group:Some of these works have been sitting on my hard drive close to twenty years and they're no fun for anyone just sitting there. They're exactly what they've been titled, pilots, like for a TV series. It is my intent and hope that other writers will choose to continue the adventures of the characters. There are only three restrictions. Don't kill off my heroes, don't make good guys bad guys and give my story credit if you publish. Yes, you may publish and make money on your stories. I loved reading and writing fan fiction, but the limitations on it could be frustrating, so... Have fun with these works that specifically don't have them.

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      Book preview

      Paradox Equation - Sharon L Reddy

      Book Six

      War for Yet to Come

      Chapter One

      The main auditorium of the Orion Arm Federation Exploration Fleet Academy was packed to capacity and then some. There was an inordinate amount of brass in the audience. The group walking to their places was the reason.

      Graduation. At last. We made it.

      Mike, there was never any doubt. Eight top honors in the family.

      Twenty-three, Dez. Dear little brother, the seven of us and my love, Bill, pulled most available. You pulled most available. Six. The most ever won by a single student.

      I find it a bit embarrassing. I overdid it a little. I'm more pleased about Bill's. His is the true accomplishment. We have an advantage. The seven of us aren't human. Our own science is quite advanced and we spend a lot of time not knowing things. We were also trained and prepared for our task since birth. Bill's human and from an agrarian world. He learned everything the hard way. Two honors in science and mathematics. Congratulations, Bill. We're proud of you.

      Thanks, Dez, but I had a lot of help. I remember too many long study sessions with the seven of you pouring information into me not to know just how much. Besides, your honors stretch across the spectrum. You weren't trained in the fine arts or literature, but you won three honors in them. I watched you learn music. You worked at it. You all did.

      That was a labor of love. Yes, Top, you're graduating too. No, I don't suppose they'll ever give bondcat diplomas. Someday they may give one to a bondcat, but it will be based on the academy curricula just like ours are. We know how much you learned and how hard you worked at it. You too, Pip. So does the fleet, or they wouldn't have listed you in the postings. Sandy, you're making me nervous.

      I'm sorry, Dez. Everyone but you is nervous. I'm trying not to rebroadcast it. I've got seven sets of jitters besides my own. And I know yours aren't yours. Help. Actually, you're the calmest among us and you have to give an address.

      He's not worried because he knows exactly what he's going to say, Sandy. Has since he started school. Though he has edited it four thousand times. Changed it a little once too. Bill, you're giving one too, but I'll bet that's not what's making you nervous.

      Excited is a better term, Cal. I'm getting married to the girl I've loved since I was fifteen. I see graduation and my very brief speech as formalities to get through so I can say, 'Bill and Mike, partners for life. Officially.' Time to make sure she really meant it when she said yes.

      I love you too, Bill. They'll still be here, won't they, Cal? Nothing's changed, has it?

      No, Mike, nothing's changed. All the timewalkers still see them all coming. The entire group of Knights Gallant will be here. We're the last for quite awhile. Grandfathers, fathers, brothers, sister and cousins, they'll all be here. And, Mike, they're here more for your wedding than graduation. Butch is bringing Abeland too. He's a very happy man.

      Last of his race and about to be a daddy. Be strange to see Butch plump. She's not going to have any problems, is she?

      Mike, you've been asking that for the entire ten months she's been carrying this baby. The answer is still no. None of you girls ever have problems. Once we manage to convince a pair of unrelated gametes they want to be a zygote, it all goes well. Our babies want to be born.

      I think she's worried Butch won't make it back Home in time, Cal. Our big sister isn't going to have her baby in the middle of your wedding, Mike.

      Dan, you're teasing me. If she did, we'd just have to stop and wait until she was done. Would you believe she actually tried to talk me out of making her matron of honor? Said her uniform didn't fit. That's why I decided the wedding would be old-Earth-traditional dress, even though the ceremony will be our own.

      That's half of why I'm so nervous, Mike. I don't know your ceremony.

      None of us do, Bill. It sort of happens as it happens. I do know it will be short and simple. Dutch isn't given to long drawn-out affairs. Bill, are you sure you want to do it this way?

      Yes, Mike. It's not unprecedented. I'm really joining your family. I'm pretty happy, all right, ecstatic, about it. I only have my mom. She understands. I'll be William Telly Gallant. I'm sort of sorry we didn't do it yesterday, then I'd be sitting with you all instead of in the T's. Well, here's where I drop out. Later.

      Mike, Gallant has a very special wedding present for him. We're telling you now so you won't be too shocked when you see her. Bill's mother is going to be here.

      Oh, Dez, that's wonderful. I thought she was too sick. She's dying.

      Yes. You know it's not disease, Mike. It's damage, too old and too advanced to do anything about. She's warm and wonderful and Gallant's going to take her Home. He's going to jump forward a few years. He's decided she should be there when her first grandchild is born. She'll live longer among us than she would have on Sendeth Four. Long enough to rock two babies and have one yell Granna whenever he gets excited and runs to show her something. Gallant's going to ask the two of you how you feel about it, but he's very sure what your answer will be. He's already checked with the timewalkers to see exactly when he should take her. Mike, Bill wouldn't have seen her but a couple times in her remaining few years. He knows she has Alkellech syndrome. He's always known it.

      I know, Dez. It's what killed his father and two brothers. He was in a crèche for the few days they were on that planet or he'd have it too. One of the Fed's most heartbreaking mistakes. By the time they realized there was something deadly about Alkellech, it was too late for too many. Survey teams, scientists and settlers, all dying of a slow breakdown of their muscle cells. Bill's mom is a bit of a miracle. She's one of three left alive. I'm glad, very glad, she'll be here. Now, why will I be shocked?

      She's been bedridden for half a year. Gallant will carry her and hold her throughout the ceremony. Once he gets her Home, Shaena will take her over. She's never going to walk again, but she'll sit and be able to dress herself and get in and out of bed and the bathtub. Wait'll you see her in her grav chair, zipping around with half the kids in the community piled on it with her. She's going to be very happy. She'll never spend another half-year laying on her back and staring at the ceiling, Mike. Her heart will stop. It's her third one. She won't accept another transplant. We're ruining Gallant's surprise, but he'll more than understand. Her appearance would shock you. Butch is going to path her future to Bill as soon as he sees her to help him get over it.

      Mike, wait'll you hear her tell about Gallant coming to get her. She could hear him coming. He hit that care center at full volume and full stride. He took one look at her and threw the entire staff out of her room. He bathed her, dressed her and fixed her hair. Put makeup on her and told her she was beautiful, then kissed her to prove it. She's head over heels for him and he'll be her beau for the rest of her life. Nice smile, Cass.

      Yeah, Dan. I can just see our great big, gorgeous, great-grandfather bowling over people he didn't think were giving one of ours appropriate care.

      He wasn't too hard on them. They really didn't know she could be made stronger. They took care of her the best they knew how. He'll tell us all of them were happy he was taking her to her son's graduation and wedding. They provided the dress for the mother of the groom. Knocked a bit timidly on the door and asked him to tell her it was from them. Saw her off with kisses and hugs. You're going to adore her, Cass. She's going to be the girlfriend you tell your steamy secrets.

      Some secrets. Even after we graduate, you and Tel will know when I'm steamy.

      Yes, but at least when we're on separate ships half a galaxy apart, you won't send us running for cold water. I'll even be able to raise the temperature in the pool. Just how did you manage to get posted to the same ship as Dez?

      Hey, you have our timeship, Tel. Dan's got our bondkit. I think I should get my warmest distant cousin. All I did was smile sweetly at the nice old NCO working on the postings and point out the ship Dez was posted to needs a security officer.

      Big, blond, and beautiful Cass melts icy-fingered old man Tremis with a smile. You do know it was a change, Cass?

      I was rather pleasantly informed of that by Dez. He said it's no problem.

      It isn't. You'd have been exceedingly bored with the posting you were supposed to get. I'm going to enjoy teasing you about the males on our ship dropping at your feet, especially one or two you don't leave lying about long.

      Right, Dez, and I suppose you'll be taking cold showers and being sedate?

      Oh, I wouldn't say that.

      I didn't think you would. Ah, finally. Here we go. Knights Gallant about to go from academy cadet to Orion Arm Federation of Free Worlds Exploration Fleet officers. How do I look?

      They struggled to control their laughter. It was supposed to be a solemn occasion, but having the most beautiful woman on a dozen planets worriedly asking if she looked good was almost too much. Even though the timewalkers had seen the question in their future memories, it was still so silly they couldn't help laughing. Mike sent her a view of herself telepathically and she smiled. Yes, she looked fine.

      The processional began and the audience quieted, at least on the outside.

      Dutch, calm down. You're about to send me through the roof.

      Sorry, Clete. I'm trying. I just can't. Our last seven are headed out among the stars. Well, the last seven we trained. And Dez. I'm so proud of him. I expected him to get honors in the sciences, but he pulled them in fine arts too.

      Being an empath in the middle of this bunch is pretty difficult anyway. Today, I'm about to come unglued. I'm barely functional. It's nice though. I'm absolutely drowning in love and pride.

      Yeah, and a good chunk of it's your own, Dad. Con and I are empaths too. We know how much of what we're feeling is coming from you. But he's right, Dutch. If you don't settle a bit, you're going to carry us all into power. That would bring a bit more attention than we want.

      Red, I really am trying.

      Dutch, you carry the seven of them and the eleven of us into power, we'll put the graduation ceremony into the back seat in people's memories. Clamp down. As excited as you are now, you'll push us over when Dez gets up to speak. You wouldn't want that. You know how he appears in power. He'd be up there, holding his sword, wearing nothing but a gray mist to keep him discreet. He may be your Dez, but he's my son and Con's grandson. We'd prefer him in his cadet grays until this is done.

      Yes, Mick. I'm trying, Mick. Dad, help!

      Me help you? It's all I can do to help myself. Comfortable, Edith?

      I'm sitting on the lap of the most gorgeous hunk of male in the universe and watching my son fulfill his lifelong dream. Gallant, comfortable is not an appropriate term. Even if Dutch does get calmed down, I'm going to be adding major happy to the empaths' emotional load. Thank you. I'll never be able to tell you how much this means to me. And I can't even begin to express how I feel about being here for Mike and Bill's wedding.

      Whoa! Edith, that hurt! Talk.

      I'm sorry, Clete. I guess I'm not sure I should have come. Although, with Gallant carrying me, I didn't have much choice. I know it's going to hurt Bill to see me like this.

      Won't. I'll give him how you will be telepathically. We will make you better. Oh, I'm miserable. I wish I was human. Nine months is long enough to carry a baby. Ten is at least two too many.

      Three more days, Butch, just three. Abeland, you positively glow.

      Oops. I re-radiate the sunlight I absorb when I'm extremely happy, Con. I'll try to damp it a bit. Have to, or I'll be hunting a sunlamp. I'm already getting hungry. In three days, Butch will give my people a legacy they, and I, didn't believe possible, a child. My race won't die with me. It will go on as part of yours. My people would be proud.

      We're pretty proud too, Abeland. Con and I can't wait to bounce your baby. I'm not a timewalker, but I know she'll be special, my favorite girl.

      About time you had a favorite girl, Turk. Oh, hurry up with the name calling, people. I'd like to see Bill pick up his diploma before I have to run for the lavatory again. Abeland your daughter is sitting on my bladder. Oh! I knew I wasn't going to make this change. Be back in time for the speeches. Abeland, push. I'm having trouble getting out of my chair.

      I'll come with you, Butch.

      Abeland, you're as much a mother hen as Dutch. Come on. Let's maneuver my bulk through this crowd.

      Lane, she isn't going to have any problems, is she?

      Dutch, once more, no. You don't think Pierce would be as calm and relaxed as he is if she was, do you?

      Um, Dad, calm and relaxed I'm not. Neither are you, but my baby girl won't have problems, Dutch. In fact, it's going to be rather easy for her. Her mother will be a bit jealous. She had three, as she puts it, 'Very unpleasant' deliveries. Amazing. Abeland's heritage will give my granddaughter the ability to take nourishment from sunlight, if necessary, but she's going to be a Gallant through and through. All their children will have the ability and they'll pass it on. Within a few generations, it will be a part of most Gallants' heritage. I'm going to be very glad to see her born. Chervan has plowed through my future memories of our grandchildren so often they've got furrows. Timewalker, telepath, and able to absorb sunlight for nutrition. Going to be quite a girl. Ah, the T's. Edith, your cadet is about to become an officer.

      Dez calmly stepped up to the podium to give his speech. Well, as calmly as was possible. The excitement coming through the bond was pretty intense and very nice. His speech was last and short. He came to the last paragraph and gave the piece he had rewritten. Dutch had made the change that gave him the words nearly four years before.

      Open minds and hearts are the true tools we carry from the academy to the stars. No difference of shape or culture can be allowed to close them. We must always seek the new. We must always be prepared to accept it. It is our duty and our joy. Each of us must meet the new and different with that joy foremost in our hearts. It's the most wonderful challenge there is and the true fulfillment of the oath we will be taking as we become officers in the Exploration Fleet. My fellow, soon-to-be, officers, one of the first pieces of wisdom taught to children in our family is choice is the definition of freedom. Know which choices are your own and make them as wisely as you can. Know which choices are others' and aid them in the making if you can, but remember, theirs is the right to choose. The fleet, and we as officers, must not choose for them. Thank you.

      Dez stepped from the podium to thunderous applause. He smiled. As a Fleet officer, he must never choose for others. As a Knight Gallant and holder of one of the five great powers, it was his duty to step in and make others' choices if their own served destruction. The conflict of the two duties would have destroyed his career in the fleet, but his liege had changed the sick society that would have caused his downfall.

      His heart leapt. He saw his lord in the audience and the love and pride in his eyes. He touched his side. Beneath his cadet grays, he wore the bloodstained tunic he had worn for the two years he had performed his task. He had defended the liberator's body with his own and won his honor.

      The blood his lord had shed six years before, when he caught him as he fell in a hail of bullets, was still warm and damp against his side. He nearly ached for his lord's embrace. He hadn't seen Dutch for more than two years and that visit had been only moments in length.

      He took his place among the other cadets and joined them in the taking of the oath. It was his third. The first had been to the powers of life when he was knighted. The second great oath had been to his liege. When it was done, he cheered with the others. They were Fleet officers.

      The mad rush to find friends and family began. The seven of them and Bill Telly made a wedge that drove smoothly through the crowd. Their fellow new officers laughed when several of them were gently lifted to one side. They had spent four years learning the strengths and honor of the Gallants. They were proud to call them friends.

      Dez pulled his coronet from a pocket of nontime and donned it. He also drew forth scabbard and sword. The others did the same. The regents had been notified they would. Fleet ceremonies were ended. Family ceremonies were about to begin. Their fellow new officers were hurrying their families. They all wanted to get changed to their new uniforms before Mike and Bill's wedding.

      It had started out as a family affair, but too many had been heartbroken at not being there. It was going to be held in the amphitheater and all who wished to attend would be welcome. They'd all be there. The Gallants had become an outstanding tradition in the Fleet since the first three had graduated the academy twelve years before. They usually didn't stay in the fleet long, but the record of the years they served were laden with commendations. Dez drew his sword and dropped to his knees before Dutch.

      I am here, My Lord. What would you have of me?

      A hug to start with, Dez. I've missed you.

      Oh, and I've missed you, Dutch. Damn, your hugs feel good. I think I'd better let you spread a few around.

      Yes, and you'd better collect a few more. Hi, Mike. How's my girl?

      Nervous. I'm about to meet my soon-to-be mother-in-law. Oops, I'm being nudged. Someone else's turn.

      Eleven gave eight hugs and five bondcats laughed in their minds. Butch complained she was giving her hugs at arms' length and they all laughed. Edith shed tears of pride and joy and was delighted when she got hugged by all the new officers and welcomed to the family by the seven Gallants. She really couldn't hug back and Gallant had his arms full. He'd get his a bit later. The wedding party rushed off to change. As they left, Cal gave Dutch the image of Dez pulling the stained whites and coronet from nontime night after night and holding them for their comfort.

      Dutch ached with the realization he'd been wrong. Dez pulled him aside to talk a moment. He was almost diffident.

      My Lord, you haven't called me for two years. Not since you brought me to you to see the change in that society had been made.

      I know, Dez. I worked at not calling you. We have a very special relationship and I think the others understand.

      But you're afraid it hurts them. I know. I think about it too. Dutch, My Lord, I beg you not to do it again. If it's only for a ten second hug on my birthday I... I need you to call me to you.

      Dez, I'm sorry. I thought you'd be busy and barely notice. How did we end up so tightly bound? I don't need my son near as much as I do you. Yes, I need you too. I couldn't sleep on your birthdays. I wanted to call you. Actually, I wanted to just show up and sing Happy Birthday.

      I knew I wasn't going to see you, but all day I kept hoping you'd make the change. I wore the whites to bed and laid awake... Enough. I'm sorry. I've hurt you and that's the last thing I wanted. It is petty and I've embarrassed myself.

      Dez, being told I'm loved doesn't hurt me. Being told you needed me and not being there does. I won't hold back again. And you will call me when you need me. You didn't.

      I didn't want to intrude. I didn't want you to think of me as a silly kid you had to give continual reassurance. I wasn't in danger. Didn't want to--

      You're never an intruder in my thoughts, Dez. You're always there. Now, you'd better get ready for your sister's wedding. I think the best man should be on time, don't you?

      He will be. And he'll remember the rings. You realize all seven of us and Butch are in this thing. Bill asked me to be best man, then had Cal, Sandy, Dan and Tel draw straws to see who'd be the other groomsman and who'd be ushers. They conspired a bit on Bill to make sure it was Sandy, but I'm sure both he and Sandy knew. Puck, keep an eye on the kits, please. Top's been trying to figure a way he could get into the ceremony and your son has a way of doing what he wants. If he'd really been disappointed, Mike would have changed the wedding so he could be. Thank you. I've missed you too.

      They all laughed when Top tripped Dez and gave him a bath. Tell his father to keep an eye on him, would he?

      Top! You're going to make me late! Mike won't be happy!

      Top jumped off Dez' chest quickly. One just didn't make Mike mad. She could singe whiskers with a glance. Puck's silver laughter cascaded through Dez' mind as he ran for his room. He breathed a sigh of relief when his future memories stopped spinning. He'd be on time. Just.

      The cats could all make changes, but seldom did. When they did, it was usually to play a prank. Top was much more so inclined than the other cats. It did keep life interesting.

      The new officers were abuzz. There was some very heavy rank in the crowd; admirals, a half dozen of them; every captain whose ship was anywhere nearby and more commodores and commanders than they had time to count. It looked like the fleet was running on junior staff and the academy had closed down. The new ensigns struggled not to sit at stiff attention.

      GALLANT!

      He turned to see who had shouted and grinned. Telas was on his way toward him at a run.

      Edith, I'm going to ask you to excuse me a moment. Would you mind if I asked Mick to take my place for a short while?

      No, I definitely would not. I'd love to get next to that gorgeous father of the bride.

      Dad, you'd better find an open spot. Telas' shout has started a small stampede. Your friends from the Curie didn't recognize you til Telas yelled. You're about to get mobbed.

      Thanks for the warning, Lane. I'll get someplace where there's a bit of room.

      He got as far as the aisle before Telas grabbed him in a bear hug.

      Gallant, why didn't you let me know you'd be here. You look incredible. Been taking very good care... Gallant, it hasn't been just a few years has it?

      Telas, my friend, it hasn't been just a few thousand. However, it's only been a few days since I saw you.

      The world you settled in the future. They told me I'd go there someday.

      You were ready to leave the fleet. Let's see. You and I would have seen each other about a year ago?

      When you picked up Dutch, hauled him into the past and put him in the academy. Uh, oh, you haven't seen the ones headed in this direction.

      No, I haven't and I'm looking forward to it.

      The new ensigns watched in awe as dignified admirals and captains ran through the aisles to reach the man in silver. They knew who he was, approximately. Mike said he was Lord Gallant of Gallant, but they wondered what was so special about him. He had admirals chattering like excited kids. Admiral Lynn Marsh, head of Fleet Medical was almost bouncing. They all knew who'd shouted his name and hugged him. The legendary cyber-augmented head of Fleet Security was very identifiable. So was the man thumping Lord Gallant on the back and grinning. He was Admiral Merris, Fleet Tactical. Rumor had it he'd be the new academy commandant.

      The former cadets recognized most of the others in the group around Lord Gallant. The who's who of the fleet were ecstatic over the presence of one member of the Gallants' family. Well-tuned curiosity kicked into high gear. Gallant laughed and did his best to settle them all down.

      Now, now, please remember the bride and groom are the main attraction of this show. I'll be at the reception and I want to see each and every one of you there, but if I don't get off center stage, my great-great-granddaughter will singe my mental ears. We'd better clear the aisle for her and I've... Telas, do you know who Dez is?

      Sure. Top honors ever. Why?

      I need a rush job done. Belin, Dell, you can help. The groom's mother is...

      Dutch grinned. The sword looked a bit incongruous with the white wedding gown, but it was important to Mike. She'd picked one with smooth lines just so she could wear it. She looked splendid, warrior bride with weapon at her side. She'd asked all the wedding party to carry their swords. Bill was the only one not wearing one.

      Telas decided there was something wrong with the picture. He walked up the side aisle, gave Bill a crisp salute, unbuckled his fleet service weapon and held it out to him. Bill snapped to attention, returned the salute and strapped it on. Telas was the only one authorized to carry a weapon on academy grounds at all times. He'd just loaned his authorization to Bill.

      Dez gave a slight nod to Telas as he went by him. Gallant had pathed what he wanted. Dez would have the plans ready. He smiled to himself. Gallant had made a little change that would echo through their Fleet careers. Wait'll Telas and Chief Engineers Belin Hayes and Dell Rosini worked with Cass, Dan and Tel. The walkers all knew what Gallant had done for them. He, as usual, did not.

      Postings were suddenly going to change as every chief engineer in the fleet requested one of the Gallants on his ship. Up until the Defenders worked with Telas, chief engineers and captains had marked glowing commendations on Gallant records, but kept rather quiet about them. The fastest way to lose good officers was to brag about them.

      Nine captains had already put in polite requests. They'd had Gallants on their ships before. Polite was about to go out the window as every captain in the fleet called in every favor owed. When your chief engineer shouted, Get me one of those ensigns! you got one. If you could. The shuffle wouldn't include Cass or him. They were already assigned to the flagship of the fleet. Captain Joslyn had enough pull to hang on to them. They'd go to the Copernicus. At least until Starbase commanders started yelling too. They were admirals. They had lots of pull.

      Mick placed his daughter's hand on his arm and they started down the aisle. He smiled at her and shook his head. She'd pathed, Dum dum de dum to him as the music started. Actually, she'd pathed it to all the Gallants, bondcats and Bill and his mother. She'd sent it along the family psychic bond and directed it to Bill and Edith. Dez grinned at his sister, then sighed and pathed Sandy to relax.

      You sure three days, Dez? Butch is not comfortable.

      Three days, Sandy.

      Dez, she was real happy when you sent that back scabbard for her. She'd been pretty upset.

      I knew there'd be no way she could stand to wear a sword belt. You know she was expecting it.

      Yeah, but she was still real happy when she got it. Damn, Mike's beautiful.

      Radiant. Shh.

      Dutch smiled at them. Of all the weddings he'd performed, this, Butch's and his son Lan's would always be the ones he remembered best. And enjoyed the most.

      Search your hearts and give your vows to one another. William, yours to Michelle.

      I give you my love. I will give it to you for all my life. I will cherish you for all my days. I will be faithful and true in body and in spirit. I will love and teach our children love. I will share with you my joy and never turn away if you are sorrowed. I will never allow anger to remain between us. I pledge this to you.

      Michelle, yours to Bill.

      I will love you more each day. I will be there for you whenever you need me. I will be faithful to you. I will bear your children and share your joy in them. I will give you all that I am. I will laugh with you in delight and give you solace in sorrow. I love you, Bill. I will never love another as well. I pledge this with all my being.

      The crowd was quite surprised when, at the end of the ceremony, the two knelt with their four hands on the hilt of her sword, which they held between them. Dutch heard the murmurs and smiled.

      William Telly, you have chosen to wed a Knight Gallant. She is sworn to serve life. Do you understand and accept her duty?

      Yes, I understand and accept.

      You understand you will have the responsibility and honor of teaching and caring for your children while she performs her duty?

      I do.

      William, I accept you into our family. Stand and face me. Take the rings Dez holds and place the symbols of your union on each other's hand. Bill, you haven't chosen an easy path, but we're very happy to have you. Lady Michelle, Knight Idealist, we salute your husband, William Telly Gallant.

      The Gallants stood, drew sword, and saluted Bill. Abeland held Edith so Gallant could join the salute. The swords were returned to scabbard and Mike sheathed hers.

      William, kiss your wife.

      Bill kissed Mike and Sandy said, Uh, oh. The timewalkers got dizzy. Clete said, Oh, dear. Dutch said, Oops, and surged into power, carrying all the rest with him. Dez burst into laughter and thrust his sword with its pulsing fire opal into the air above his head. The crowd stilled in awe. Light radiated from the Gallants. They were nearly too bright to look at.

      Mike and Bill's kiss had heated Sandy. Sandy was an empathic amplifier. His heat had hit Clete. Clete held one of the five great powers. His power was passion. His passion had hit Dutch and Dutch was the Champion and their center. When he flared into power, he carried them all. He dropped out as quickly as he could.

      Mike glared at Dutch. He pointed at Clete. Clete pointed at Sandy. Sandy said, Well, it was your kiss. Dez sat down on the floor and laughed. As the finale of his sister's wedding, he'd stood with sword in hand, dressed in a coronet and a spiraling band of gray mist. Mike shook her head and sighed. Bill laughed and kissed her again. Edith leaned against Gallant and the two shook with laughter.

      Captains and admirals began to understand why fine young officers with excellent careers ahead of them resigned after a few years service. The Gallants were something more extraordinary than even they had realized. Something had come into the amphitheater when the eighteen had stood for a moment bathed in radiance that came from within.

      Dutch wasn't a timewalker, but he knew Mike was going to 'corner' him as soon as the long reception line had all passed. Bill's wide grin when she pulled him with her was wonderful.

      I'm sorry, Mike. I really am. I just wasn't expecting it. Clete blasted me and it happened before I could stop it.

      I think the apology would mollify me a bit more, Dutch, if you weren't giggling. Do you realize you stripped my brother in the middle of my wedding with half the fleet in attendance?

      Mike, it was actually at the end of our wedding and half the fleet wasn't there. More like a quarter.

      Mike gave up. She leaned against Bill and giggled. She'd wanted all the Knights Gallant there to witness her wedding and, frankly, to show them off. She remembered the old adage, Be careful what you wish for. You just might get it.

      Dutch, the reception's about to start and the best man, maid of honor and a couple of ushers are missing. Know why?

      No, Mike, but Clete says Dad is feeling smug, very smug. I suggest you wait to find out. They just walked in with Telas and the two best engineers in the fleet. Bill, I think you just got a wedding present and it's being given to your mother. Let's go watch Dad give it to her.

      Edith, this is a silly way for you to have to spend your son's wedding day. We decided to do something about it. Bill's fellow officers have done that something. This seat of honor is for you. Dez, explain it to her.

      It's basically an antigrav sled with a few extras. Gallant, seat her in it and help her get comfortable. Now, Edith, feel the row of buttons under your right hand? Press the bottom button. It activates a tractor field behind your lower back. It increases slowly in strength. When you feel firmly supported, press it again. The next one in the row is for your waist, then chest, then shoulders. Use them all, but make sure you don't get any of them too tight. They're support, not clamps. If you get any too tight, two presses starts slow field reduction. The chair was pretty easy. These were harder. We know, when we get you Home, you'll get stronger, but you shouldn't have to put up with being fed and so on. These bands I'm placing on your arms are antigrav assists. They should only make your arms light enough for you to lift yourself. They should not hold them hovering in midair. Now, I've got the control for them. We'll set them together. Try to lift your arms. Again. Don't work at it. It should be as easy for you as it is for me. Again. Again.

      Oh! I can lift them! Oh, thank you!

      Not done yet. The 'piece de resistance'. Your earclips, Milady. They look like nice silver earrings, but they're weak antigrav field generators. They're at about half strength. Turn your head right to left. Now forward then back. Now tilt it from side to side. If it was work to do those things, we'll increase the field. If you felt like your head was going to float off, decrease. Which?

      A tiny decrease. A bit more. Yes. How did you do this? These things don't exist. I know they don't.

      The technology does, but muscular deterioration, such as yours, is so very rare no one has ever thought to apply it this way before. It just took Gallant to say use it for this and Telas and the two best engineers in the fleet to do it. The little pad on the left arm of your chair is its control. I suggest you place two fingers on it. Speed ranges from a slow drift to a brisk walk. Pressure on various parts of the pad give direction. Push very lightly on the leading edge with your fingertips.

      Oh!

      Edith, keep pushing that hard and we'll be chasing you all night. Try again. Better. To turn round, press one side or the other. Go ahead. Practice a bit. Edith, the chair and assists were the best we could do. I could have designed a unit to hold you in a standing position, but it would have just held you up, not given you bipedal motion. You'd have been standing at the table all night.

      Oh, you've made me... I didn't think I could get happier today. I just... Oh.

      Tears are nice if they're happy ones. Now, we're about to get in line for hugs. Me first because I'm standing closest. Nice. Mmm, Gallant, I think you're a dope. I wouldn't have let her get out of my arms if I'd had her.

      Didn't want her out of my arms, Dez. Wanted her to hug back.

      Dez grinned when Gallant moved him aside to get his hug. He drew him a bit away to talk while others got theirs.

      You did something very nice, Gallant. Nice for us new ensigns and someone else too. Notice Telas got back in line for another hug? You changed his memory. He always remembered meeting Edith. Now he's at Home waiting for her. They're going to share something very special her last few years. You'll be the one who gets to perform their wedding ceremony. Thought you'd like that. You did yourself out of your best girl, Gallant.

      Dez, first time I lost out to someone else and I'm delighted.

      The evening was warm and wonderful and much too soon over. Mike and Bill were posted to the same ship so they'd have a great deal of time together. They spent as much time as they could with Edith. Telas kept her company the rest of the time. Before Gallant left to take her Home, Telas told her he'd look forward to seeing her again and he'd be waiting for her when she got there. She told him he was wonderful and sweet, but it would be a very long time. He'd forget her. He laughed and told her he never forgot anything. He'd be there.

      Dez stood beside Dutch while he gave goodnight hugs. He needed to be near him. He'd tried not to trail him around all night. It hadn't been easy. When he turned to give him his, he just couldn't say farewell.

      Dutch, I don't want you to go yet. I know you will and I know you have to, but I want you to know I don't want you to.

      Dez?

      I just need a bit of reassurance, Dutch. You know how it is for me. I'm the timewalker who never sees more than twenty years ahead. That's why my life has to belong to you. Only you can keep those twenty years moving ahead of me. Two years is a large piece of less than twenty, My Lord.

      Dez, you're mine. Body, blood and life, mine. I won't release you from the oath that binds you to me. Tell me when.

      Don't worry about it now, Dutch. I just needed the assurance.

      Knight Creator, ON YOUR KNEES!

      Yes, My Lord.

      You will tell me when you foresee your death. And you will tell me now!

      Two years. I get reposted to Starbase Mendel. There's a fault in the medical research lab. It has to be corrected or everyone will die. I get the lab sealed, but the safeties trip. The contents of the lab are expelled into space. I can exist in space for almost nine minutes, Lord. They don't find me before they're gone. A series of can't happens, as always.

      The destructive power focused on the creator. As always. Nine minutes is a long time, Dez. Why don't you call me?

      Can't. Head blow. Knocks out my telepathy. Can't find you. I'm conscious, but mute.

      This is a command. You will call me to you before you go into the lab. Acknowledge the command.

      I hear and will obey. Oh!

      Dez swayed and collapsed. Dutch picked him up off the floor and held him against him. All over the room, timewalkers were being steadied. He watched his brother Lane. He would know first. He would look at the new future with Puck's eyes, then tell him if it was good.

      The two hundred twenty-five K bondcat padded over to Lane. The other cats and half-grown kits move toward the timewalkers in their bondgroups. Lane steadied and put a hand on the one hundred thirty centimeter white cat with emerald eyes. He stood very still a moment, smiled and nodded. Yes, the change had been made and it was good. Another attempt on Dez' life by the dark power would be thwarted.

      Dutch, I'm going to live. You pull me. I can't come to you, so you pull me in. I'm going to live. My Lord, you have given me my life again. I'm steady. I can stand.

      I'll put you down when I'm damned good and ready. Understand?

      Yes, My Lord.

      Dutch held him while he cried. He wouldn't wait two years to call him again. Two years was too long, for both of them. After a few minutes, he stood him on his feet and smiled. He still didn't want to let go of him. He was, literally, struggling to make himself let go of him. The deep love he had for him was a bit more than he quite knew how to deal with.

      Felt good. I understand you and my gorgeous granddaughter are posted to the same ship.

      Yeah. She charmed a new posting. It's a nice big ship. We're friends, Dutch. It has nice side benefits, but it's not exclusive and no problem. We're not closely related.

      I know. You're only my relative through my half-brothers and my adopted son's wife. Both at least three generations back. But, Dez, you're mine.

      Yours.

      Chapter Two

      Cass and Dez were delighted when the captain arranged rotation so that they were both in the first group given shore leave. As soon as they got on the planet, the delight evaporated.

      Dez, there's something wrong here.

      I feel it too, Cass. Happy shore leave on a nice Federation planet and something here raises the hair on the back of my neck.

      Do you see anything in your future memory?

      No. Not even this conversation.

      Dez, we've got trouble.

      Yeah. Security Officer Gallant, we need to investigate.

      Suggestions as to where we start?

      Let's start with that club over there. Looks a likely spot, don't you think?

      Likely to get us a few new friends anyway. You plan on getting real friendly, give me some warning. I'd like a chance to find a nice companion or... This is really bothering you. Talk to me, Dez.

      None of this happens. We transport down, look around, walk down that street and into a restaurant. We have a nice dinner and, two blocks further down, we go dancing. You find partners you like. I find partners I like. Nice evening on shore leave. I just suggested another club and we're headed for it. My memory says we walk to a restaurant that way. Wish I had Top with me. I'd see what was wrong... Cass, I'm going to try something. If I fall down in the street, pretend I'm drunk and haul me to my feet.

      Uh, uh. Tell me first. If something goes wrong, I want to know what you were doing when it happened.

      I'm going to reach for Top. He's with Sandy and a long way away, but he's in this time. If I can look at this with his eyes...

      You'll see the shadows over other possibles and why your memories aren't changing. All right, Dez, but be careful. I'm no telepath. I can't help if you get into trouble.

      I wouldn't be too sure about that. Dutch didn't think he was a telepath either. Let's see if I can find Top.

      Cass watched him search. Something about the search itself made her nervous. She realized she was nearly holding her breath. Something inside her suddenly said, No. She grabbed Dez and shook him. Slowly his glazed look disappeared.

      See, you did know what to do. Cass, there's no one out there. No one. No Mike, no Cal. I couldn't find Dutch. You're all there is.

      Oh shit. We're in it deep. Let's get to someplace sitting and start taking it apart. Dez, he's out there. You know he is. Calm down. If you'd disappeared from him like he did from you, he'd be landing Melissa on the Copernicus and demanding to know where you were. This may not be action against you.

      Do you believe that?

      No, but it felt good to say it. Noisy place. Too noisy. They feel it too.

      Oh, my.

      Dez, you have an incredible sense of priorities. We've got major mystery. Your memories are incorrect. We think something may be setting you up. And you see a gorgeous brunette and it's 'Oh, my'. I just think you're so sensible.

      Well, she's with someones, but there are only five of them. Shouldn't be a problem. If she's not committed to one of them, I'll just offer myself as a superior choice.

      And lay them down for naps if they disapprove. And what about our mystery? You know; hackles up, something's wrong?

      We need more, Cass. The more changes I make, the more the control on my memory stretches. Outrageous suits the problem.

      Glad we're not in uniform. How outrageous do you plan on getting?

      Do you see anything here that really interests you?

      No, not my style. I like wild and rowdy with class. You know, like us. These are just wild and rowdy.

      Good, then you won't mind if I decide to put them all to sleep.

      Before you take your hundred ninety-plus cens of muscle over to fair lady's table or after?

      Oh, after, I think. I'd like to know if she likes my pale ash blond curls and copper streak before I'm the only single male in the place still on his feet.

      Hmm, looks like about thirty in an argumentative mood. You're already attracting their attention.

      Yeah, they're wondering how difficult I'd be to get through to get to you.

      Oh, you're so sweet. Truthful too. One thing.

      It is?

      If you decide to take on the whole place...

      You want to play too. Of course, dear cousin. Have I ever started a good fight I didn't share?

      Yes. On Auber Two.

      Cass, I said a good fight. There were only six of them. Good fun, Cass. No breakage.

      I never break anyone who doesn't draw a weapon and, unless they really rush me, I usually don't break them. Careful, Dez, you're flying blind. Mere mortal stuck in the present. You don't look for guns you don't see in advance.

      Point well made. I'm going to ask a favor. Tune your senses up. Go on full alert. I want to come into your mind and feel it. Learn it the easy way, I suppose.

      You just want to feel me up. It's a good idea. We can try it, but I'm not sure it'll work. That awareness is part of me, and I've trained it. You may be able to feel it, but not do it. I'm on. Come in.

      Dez had been in Cass' mind before, but under very different circumstances. They'd grown up in a telepathic society. Privacy was everyone's right and casual peeking very impolite, but a bunch of kids all about the same age didn't peek. They wandered through each other's minds and through any door not labeled Keep out.

      Dez had been just a baby when she left, but he'd been in her mind many times since the Three had time-hopped forward and picked him up at fourteen, the same age as the others. This time it was totally different. He could feel her sensing her surroundings. The smell, feel, sound and taste of the room combined with a vision that was more than peripheral. Cass said she wasn't a telepath. In the first instant, Dez knew better, but it was of a totally different type than his own. He withdrew and began to build what he had felt in Cass in himself.

      I can do it. It's a form of telepathy. Don't argue. It is. It's very, very different. Not concepts and images, sensory perception. I'll never be as good as you are at it. Cass! This is what the bernisi have! And perhaps humans. It's what Dutch has and probably Turk. This is why you could feel the blood.

      You just made me very happy. I'd always felt like a leftover. Looks and brains like the rest, but no talent. You've just told me I've not only got it, I've trained it.

      Damn, why didn't you ever tell Mike or Butch? Or me? We've always known it. I just didn't realize it was telepathy. It's like the bondcats in a way. Awareness beyond what the rest of us have, but I'm learning. Let's get out of this doorway. My back itches.

      Yeah, you are learning. We'll move. Over there. OK. Now, watch the door. See? We stood there quite a while, but right after your back itched someone came in. Wow. I've never gotten to show off before. The empaths could feel people coming. The timewalkers remembered people coming. I never really understood why you telepaths didn't listen for people coming.

      Too much noise. Or we don't know how. No, that's not right either. Telepathy is communication. Always. At least ours is.

      Communication?

      Yes. Even one way. You can listen to a mind or talk to a mind. You can shout out loud and talk to everybody. You can use a megaphone and direct your shout, but you can't just switch on and hear everything at once. You have to tune a channel. I'm nervous. My heart rates are up and I feel like drawing into a crouch. Adrenaline, fight or flight. Over there. That corner. No one there, but--

      EVERYBODY OUT NOW! I'M FLEET SECURITY OFFICER CASSANDRA GALLANT! MOVE OUT CALMLY, BUT AT SPEED! WE BELIEVE THERE IS A BOMB IN THIS ROOM! OFFICER DESMAN GALLANT WILL DIRECT YOU TO SAFETY! Get 'em out, Dez. Clear the street and keep it clear. I'm going to find that device. Don't argue! Security command. My job. Control them.

      Clear that door! Get out and clear the street in front! Do not push. Damn!

      Dez picked them up and moved them. Two women were trying to get a huge orlusian out the door. The massive neuter was drunk and panic was beginning to grip the people who had responded with good sense to Cass' order. The women stared when Dez picked up the two hundred fifty K bulk of the too happy cephalopod. He said, Fleet, and went back to direct the exodus. He got them out and his palms started to sweat. He could feel Cass hunting. There was something there. Somewhere in there...

      CASS!

      The building blew and she laughed.

      Pretty impressive, Dez. How the hell did you know and how did you get me out of there? You even left me dressed, very impressive.

      Oh, shut up and let me hang on to you a minute. Cass, if I hadn't learned... If you hadn't taught…

      Our side plays good game too, Dez. And I didn't teach you how to do that.

      I think I borrowed Dutch's power. Somehow... It makes me feel a little better. He's there or I couldn't have. He'll know I did. Something in me still can reach him.

      Sure you did, much easier than admitting you have more power. To work. Why a bomb and why there? Well, we got them all out. Maybe someone can tell us. My, he looks unhappy. Let's talk to him. Hello, tell us why?

      Protection racket. I was stupid. Said no.

      Whoa! This is a Fed planet! Cashless society. You need to explain that. Big time. Oh, I'm Dez Gallant. My cousin, Cass.

      Horral Shears. The commodity is information. Only thing that's not free. Put ears on every table or else. Got friends that did. They don't figure it's a problem. I just don't like being pushed. Don't have a family, so I figured they really couldn't hurt me. They managed. Lots of very hard work just blew sky high. Loved that place. Put a lot of myself into it. Usually pretty relaxed, but nobody's been relaxed lately. Regular crowd kind of tapered off. Went from mainly synth to O H content. Friends say the same.

      Why haven't you reported it?

      Have. Well, the service sector rep did. Or said he did. He retired permanently, an accident. We're pretty suspicious, but it really does look as if that's what it was. One of those weird strings of coincidence that can't happen, but do. You two... It just hit me. You saved all those people. And me. I'm laughable. Upset about the place and I almost wasn't here to be upset.

      Easy, Horral. Sit down. Happens that way sometimes. Takes a while to face an abrupt reminder we're mortal. Speaking of which. Dez, too many strange coincidences equal enemy action. We need help. Your leave has just been canceled, Cousin. Get back to the ship.

      What?!

      Sorry, Dez. I'm putting you out of it. You can argue til you're blue, but I won't give, not a cen. I'm calling the captain. You're being taken off this one. No, Dez! You can't call Dutch. I'm stand in. I've decided. You're out of here.

      Cass, don't overprotect me. I don't like being babied.

      See the sense of it, Dez. Please. Dan and Tel are both in this sector and both security. I'm going to request them. And I'm not babying you. It's real Defenders' work, not Dreamers'. Not this time. Come on, hero. Our turn. It'll make me feel better if you'll agree, but I'll pull position if I have to. Call it Fed Security and order you off. Ensign, you're engineering and R and D. You don't get this one. Love you, Dez, but this one's mine.

      Call the ship. Call me if you need my skills.

      Always, especially when I'm off duty.

      Captain Joslyn moved fast and got Cass just who she wanted. Dan, Tel and Pip were surprisingly close. They went to work as soon as their captains could get them to it.

      You ordered Dez offplanet and he listened?

      No, Tel. I told him I'd order if I had to. Claimed the job for us. Did you see yourselves coming here?

      I didn't. Dan?

      No. Cass, we shouldn't have been able to come. I'm suddenly reposted and Tel's ship is detoured for a small chore that could have been handled by thirty ships that were closer. And, what do you know, we're needed and right where we need to be. Other very funny thing. As soon as the call came through, I checked with the other paths. We didn't know we couldn't reach Dez. We also didn't know we couldn't reach the Three or Gallant. Yeah, real nervous. I'm not even sure why I hunted Cal, but he's close too. Seems his captain got permission to visit family while their ship had a bit of work done. Just so happened the spacedock closest to his home is in this sector.

      Very handy coincidence. Point our side. Pip, quit it. You know you're too big to sit on my lap. Oh, baby, I'm sorry. I have missed you. Here. I'll bet you're big enough to sit beside me and rest your chin on my lap. See? You're a big cat now. Dan, throw out a non sequitur. Something you don't see yourself saying.

      Cass, I'm jealous of Dez.

      WHAT?!

      Easy, love, as odd a statement as I could think of making. True, but very minor. We're all jealous. Cal, me, Tel, Con and probably Turk too for that matter. Sandy's not, but he's a bit envious of Bill. There aren't any women out there as beautiful as our own. There aren't enough of you to go around. We happily shop for near perfect and envy Dez. Now, why did I shake you up?

      To see if your memories changed. Did they?

      Smooth as satin sheets. Why?

      Dez locked up. No matter what we did, his memory didn't change. We were seeing how far it would stick when boom.

      And he couldn't find anyone, including Dutch. Tel, let me look at your memories. Let's see if they're the same as mine.

      Pull Cass and Pip in too. Let's team it all the way.

      Done. Now an overlay and Pip's eyes. Clear. Sense anything, Cass?

      Yeah, but it's just a... an itch, Dez called it.

      Time to leave this pleasant park bench. Let's track your itch. Left at the next corner?

      So far, so good, Dan. Give me a brief.

      I see us finding another stubborn Fed citizen, lovely lady. We locate and dispose of a bomb. She gives us a nod toward a tough customer. You and Tel have a lot of fun cleaning the floor with him and friends. I read him and charm our hostess, as you saw.

      Always better for me when you talk it out. Your future memories go by pretty fast when we scan... Wrong. Stop here. Oops, sorry, guys. Wrongness coming from over there. Have we got time before the bomb, Tel?

      Yes. It's not set to go off til midnight. Cass, I've got shadows and Pip's spitting mad.

      Slowly and care-- Dan? Dan?! Oh, shit!

      Cass slapped him and ducked. She barely got clear. Dan wasn't as fast as she was overall, but his reaction time was phenomenal. And he had a long reach.

      Whew. Damn, Dan, what happened?

      Thanks, Cass. Sorry. Tried to scan what was in that alley. Like falling into forever. Dimensional gate?

      "If it is, we've got real trouble. It means the arkoosans are back. They're the only ones who use gates. Well, that we know of. The time's right too. Two twenty and one ten years ago. Real trouble. Scout only. Dan, you're backup. Fleet has to know.

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