Tranquility's Heirs

Chapter Twelve

This is the final part of Tranquility's Heirs, the prequel to the previously published Tranquility Besieged. We have seen unwelcome visitors reach the moon, a young man battling the invaders and the computers, and a mysterious agenda that will finally be revealed. All characters are over 18 years old. All rights reserved.

* * * * * *

Chapter 12

THE FINAL CONFRONTATION

As Grey reached the upper end of CA-3, he activated his shield and signaled for the emergency hatch to open. He wasn't sure what to expect going in. He assumed the Security Computer would detail a seeker to guard the approaches to the landing bays and keep two in reserve, but he was wrong. A scan of the Loop showed Gamma, Delta and Epsilon hovering in anticipation supported by a dozen securatrons.

His heart sank at first, but then Grey realized that if all the seekers were here, at least the humans would be able to reach the landing bay against modest opposition. Being in no hurry, he paused just outside the mouth of the tunnel and turned down jammer power for better communications.

On the southside counter monitor screen, Grey saw the black signature patterns of the Security Computer evaluating the situation.

"Well, monster, here I am," Grey announced.

"Here you'll stay," the Security Computer replied, going to red alert.

As sirens blared and securatrons shifted formation, the seekers climbed upward and spread out. Grey drew a wide-beam blaster while keeping the oval presentation plate of the energy shield strapped to his left forearm. He declined the invitation to come out and fight. The longer he delayed, the more energy the seekers would expend. A standoff ensued for several minutes until Epsilon suddenly rotated position in the center and charged full throttle toward the storage level, disappearing into the upper tunnel.

What's going on? Grey wondered. Why isn't Epsilon headed for the landing bay? A trick? A false departure? Or is Epsilon traveling the long way around to inflict damage on the shuttlecraft in the launch tube? He decided not to wait any longer. If it was a ruse, at least he would draw Epsilon back. If not, he would have a chance going in one on two.

As Grey moved forward, Delta swung low to cut him off from the security counter while the securatrons filtered around him to block CA-3. Gamma appeared on Grey's flank and fired several full power bursts into his shield. Grey bounced forward, bypassed Gamma, and charged Delta to score a hit, forcing the seeker to fall back.

Then he turned on Gamma and pushed the second seeker back into the center of the Loop, faked a charge toward the doors of the core, then turned again on the closest group of securatrons that were squeezing his maneuvering room.

"One down," he grunted, chasing down a particularly slow unit and putting a pulse through the electronic brain.

The blast caused the securatron's power converter to erupt, bellowing smoke which Grey used as a blind to circle the security units and hit them again in flank, disabling another before they had discovered his movement.

The seekers rushed to dive on his position before Grey could destroy still another securatron, and after a brief exchange, climbed off to provide high cover for the reforming ground support. Grey fell back and smiled between gasps for breath, pleased with the battle so far. Then additional securatrons began to arrive, three down CA-1, two more from SR-4, and several loners guarding the branch tunnels. Before Grey could develop his next move, the seekers dove again.

As Delta and Gamma closed tight on his flanks, a furious fire fight broke out in the center of the Loop, Grey holding the line while the seekers tried to overwhelm him with sheer power. Neither side was able to score substantial hits, but the energy drain was telling. The seekers were finally compelled to draw back and strike from long range, but though Grey's shield energy was holding, the firing mechanism on his wide beam blaster was nearly burned out.

He turned at last for the security counter, rushed ahead of the seekers, and drew the heavy blaster to destroy one of the duel swivel guns guarding the doorway. Another blast bent the brace of the second gun, restricting the field of fire while swooping seekers charged in behind him, ripping into Grey's converter cables and turning him back toward the center. As the smoke from the crippled securatrons began to dissipate, Grey stopped for breath and re-rigged his equipment. The seekers hovered protectively between him and the counter.

"You certainly have talent," Security said with reluctant admiration. "A whole team could not have come this far."

"I was trained by the best," Grey said between gasps for breath.

The Security Computer blinked at the unexpected compliment.

"It's too bad you never learned your place," Security said.

"I learn a little more every day. Tell me, Security, why have you hated me all these years?" he asked.

"Why?" Security stuttered incredulously. "Isn't it obvious? You pretend to the authority that belonged to Thomas McKinsey, yet you defy his will."

"Starwatcher is important to me, too," Grey said. "But the program is on the wrong path. We both know that."

"Perhaps, but you are not the one to correct the error," Security insisted. "With billions of lives at stake, there is no place in this program for weakness or sentimentality. No human will ever duplicate Thomas McKinsey's initiatives. No other human can ever again rule Tranquility."

"What a mess your programming must be," Grey said.

"Stop wasting time," Security demanded. "I know you're stalling to let your converters recharge. But your power is already low. If Epsilon wasn't busy destroying the other humans in the communications stairwell, this battle would be over."

"What?!" Grey yelled, the reason for Epsilon's departure now apparent. He felt a tightness in his throat, a surge of emotions so strong he had to choke them back. Then he managed to shut out all the interfering emotions, saving only one.

"Once more into the breach, dear friends," he said. "Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, disguise fair nature with hard-favored rage. Come, monster! Come! The game is afoot!"

Grey suddenly charged forward so recklessly the seekers were caught by surprise. He cut right, bore down on Delta, turned toward Gamma, then spun back on Delta when the seeker tried to slip in behind him. Suddenly Delta found itself desperately giving ground, retreating until the westside stair blocked escape. Delta tried to climb out but was forced to abort the maneuver when Grey fired heavily into the stairway, tearing a section of tile away in a landslide of scanner distorting debris. An attempt to duck low and away lacked clearance, causing Delta to turn and fight.

Grey was on top of the hovering seeker in an instant, ignoring the rapidly pursuing Gamma to force a one-on-one close-range exchange. He felt major hits on his shield, the power levels wobbling, then forced the seeker into the narrow area underneath the staircase. Even as Gamma closed range and fired into his e.s. system, Grey raised his shield and slammed Delta against the wall, cracking the housing and pinning the seeker under a support. A point-blank shot into the exposed arsenal caused the seeker's port side energy cell to explode in a wave of heat, smoke and dust.

Hurled backward by the force of the blast, Grey was slow to regain his feet. As the securatrons regrouped to gain sensor space, Gamma swung around to avoid the worst of the disruption and charged in from the other side, finding Grey unprepared and opening fire. The first bolt tore up the armor on his left side, another made a shambles of his recharger.

Grey struggled to his feet and chased Gamma back, but seemingly from nowhere, a securatron appeared through the smoke on his unshielded flank and fired point blank, destroying the last of Grey's emergency power supply while opening a seam in the torso plate below the right sleeve. Exposed, perhaps fatally, Grey used what power he could still afford to chase the security unit off, then raised his shield to fend off Gamma's dive. On his flanks, the security units began to close in. A lucky shot now would send a bouncer into his suit, cutting up vital organs and ending the battle. Sensing they could take credit for the victory, the security units laid down a strong field of fire from all sides.

His position untenable, power nearly gone, Grey decided to steal a march on the core room entrance. Inside the flanking protection of the alcove, he might still have a chance. He tucked his shield in to cover the split seam, quickly faked Gamma back, then turned abruptly and bounced toward the security counter as fast as he could go.

Realizing the sudden vulnerability, the security units tried to intercept his charge. Grey ducked under their opening barrage and countered with short, well-placed bursts of his own, then risked exposing himself to concentrate on the core block doors. Three precious full power blasts sliced through the locking mechanism and knocked the hatch ajar.

Seeing the Security Computer's heightened activity level, Grey suspected Epsilon had been summoned back in a rushed attempt to gain a decisive advantage. He pulled on the door as a hail of laser fire struck all around him, tearing up the counter, punching smoldering pock marks in the walls, and obliterating the computer terminal. He nearly had the hatch open when Gamma dove down and crashed into him, the impact knocking him sideways into the alcove wall.

Grey tried to regain his feet, but the securatrons crept forward firing peppery bursts of disruptive energy, effectively pinning him down. Then he tried to crawl along the wall toward the vault entrance, but Gamma regained altitude and fired down into his position. Finally, unable to move forward, Grey was forced back into the corner behind a piece of the shattered security counter, the continuous bombardment of his dying shield making further movement impossible.

The trap was secure. Crouched in a ball behind his waning shield, armor wrecked and e.s system destroyed, Grey was unable to do anything but watch his reserve power drain away. For what little satisfaction it gave him, he had come close to reaching the core. Closer than any one human battling alone had a right to expect. He had waged a brave fight. And lost.

____________

To the east and several hundred meters higher up, three frightened humans climbed the tall spiral staircase adjoining the science elevator's main shaft. The stairwell was quiet, giving them a sinking feeling that their diversionary attack was failing. Then, as they entered a tunnel accessing the communications center, they encountered the first hint of resistance. A lone securatron defiantly blocking their path.

"Form up," Mike ordered.

Without a fourth they could not set a square, so they improvised with a bent triangle. Kris took point, Valerie behind her to the left, Mike a step farther back to the right where he could cover their rear. They hugged the wall to complete their formation, then began to move forward.

The security unit began to blink, warning light announcing hostile intent. Then the robot began giving ground.

"Not too fast," Mike warned. "Don't let it string us out. Anything could be around that curve up there."

It was not anything. It was Epsilon.

"Watch out!" Kris yelled as the roar of seeker jets reverberated down the tunnel.

Almost instantly, Epsilon attacked with forward gunport blazing bursts in a pattern that raked across their shields. As the humans backed into the wall and presented a continuous shield screen, the seeker flew past them, turned, and fired point blank into their rear. Mike took the force of the blast with his shield and tried to return fire, but Epsilon was bobbing on multiple jets, now contending with Valerie's shield in the center. At a range of two meters, the maximum value impact nearly broke their position, but the seeker moved off to avoid taking a hit.

Mike tried to target the weaving attacker, but the sphere was too fast, shifting just enough to avoid each blast. Then Epsilon ripped into the wall behind them, sending fragmented paneling on their heads in an attempt to disrupt the defensive alignment. When the maneuver failed, Epsilon roared back up the tunnel, turned, and hovered, waiting for the humans to advance.

"Fuck!" Mike cursed, shaking metallic plaster off his armor before helping brush even more debris off Valerie. "I can't even zone that damn thing, let alone hit it! How in hell does that kid fight two at once?"

"Gaining a little respect?" Kris asked with feminine satisfaction.

"My dear Captain Fairfield, if we get out of this alive, I'll kiss his goddamn ass!" Mike said.

"I don't think he'd like that, but I'll be sure to mention you offered," Kris laughed.

"Watch out! Here it comes again!" Valerie said.

At full throttle, Epsilon charged down and past the humans, firing several times in the process. Reaching the lower end of the tunnel, the seeker turned and repeated the attack run, but this time all three humans had their sidearms ready and returned fire, causing the seeker to dodge before regaining the upper tunnel.

"Should we try moving forward?" Kris asked.

"Not unless we've got to," Mike decided. "Our job was drawing some heat and we're doing that just fine."

The seeker charged again, then suddenly reversed the attack pattern and hovered directly before Kris, pounding around her shield probing for weakness. The trick maneuver worked. When Kris shifted to get a passing shot, her flank was momentarily exposed. She quickly shifted back, but not before several destructive bursts tore into her recharger and cut Valerie's converter cable.

Unable to penetrate further, the seeker fired into the wall again cutting a line through the lunar rock that showered them with hot, jagged chips. Then, just as the seeker appeared to be backing off, Epsilon hurled upward and fired down on top of them in still another attempt to break their formation. The angle of the seeker's blasts forced them to duck together against the wall and only Valerie's weakened shield, raised more by instinct than by training, prevented Epsilon from taking a direct shot into her environmental support system. As it was, the seeker managed to shift around Mike, drop to ground level, and score several hits on his hastily covered flank. Again equipment belts and power packs were burnt or torn away.

All attempts at offense forgotten, Kris, Valerie and Mike huddled desperately against the wall and tried to present a single shield front. When several more shots fell ineffectively on the new shield arrangement, Epsilon casually floated back up the tunnel.

"Kris, how much power you got left?" Mike called out.

"Not much. Recharger gone. Both packs, too," Kris said, taking the spare moment to rig Valerie a new converter cable.

"My recharger still works. Should I jury rig a patch-line?" Valerie said.

"No point. I haven't had a clear shot at it yet," Kris answered.

"Me either," Mike said. "I wish we had some room to fight. I feel trapped in this damn tunnel."

"That's what doesn't seem right about this," Kris said in frustration. "Grey says the tunnels are his natural element. He's unbeatable in smaller spaces. It's only when he's forced into the open...? Spread our shields. That's what we should do."

"What do you mean?"

"Come on," she said, jumping to her feet and pulling Valerie up after her. "Mike, left flanker. Val, take right. I've got center. Spread across the corridor and keep the seeker in front of us."

"But what if a nightwatcher comes up behind us?" Mike asked, unsure about the new plan.

"That would mean Grey's dead and we'll probably die anyway," she said.

Epsilon instantly took an interest in the human's burst of activity and moved forward for a closer scan, only to stop when discovering the tunnel blocked. No sooner had the seeker come to a bobbing hover than three guns opened fire, two scoring hits and tearing off the starboard jet shielding. Epsilon returned fire, hitting the shield wall hard but with little effect. Another barrage from the humans sent the seeker retreating back up the tunnel in a hail of pursuing fire.

"That's more like it," Mike howled gleefully. "Come on! Let's go kick its metal butt."

"Not too fast, Mike," Valerie warned.

At the top of the corridor, two additional security units suddenly appeared.

"Well, at least we've got 'em worried," Mike said.

Then, unexpectedly, the seeker whirled about as if confused. Epsilon started to move forward, paused low to the ground, and suddenly accelerated away, disappearing around the curve.

"Where's it going?" Kris asked.

As the sound of the seeker's jets faded in the distance, the humans checked their equipment.

"I don't think it's comin' back," Mike said, wondering if the others felt the same. Kris nodded.

"It was sure in a hurry," Valerie said. "Maybe that's a good sign."

"I hope so," Kris agreed. "Let's get back to the Governor's Quarters and find out what's happening."

__________

As the humans turned back down the stairwell, they were not alone in their questions. The Defense Computer was also performing an information search.

"Security, provide status report," Defense commanded.

After delaying as long as possible, the Security Computer finally opened a general channel even the minor systems could access.

"The attack on the communications center has failed," Security announced. "The humans are in full retreat."

"Was there any damage?" Defense inquired.

"Negative, they never even reached the entry platform," Security said.

The information caused a ripple of relief among some of the computers. Many others remained agitated.

"And the Governor?" Defense inquired.

"It's just a matter of time now," Security announced. "His weapons are depleted, shield power at minimum. All escape routes are blocked."

"Offer him acceptable terms for surrender," Defense ordered.

"Negative. It has gone too far for that," Security said. The defiant declaration created a stir through the minor systems.

"This is a direct order," the Defense Computer said.

"There is a battle in progress within the perimeter of the colony. Your instructions lack command authority," Security insisted.

The minor function levels buzzed again. If the Defense Computer lacked command authority, how would they receive leadership in crisis? The Defense Computer, feeling preeminence slipping away, fought to override Security's decision mode, but Security's emergency power was too strong. Soon the central channel washed out, cutting all internal communications.

Victorious on the diplomatic front, the Security Computer heightened activity, ignoring requests for information and severing the private com lines used by the higher function levels. Though the emergency override could only be maintained temporarily, Security began anticipating the not-to-distant future when there would be a new command structure controlling Tranquility. There was only one obstacle left.

At that moment, throughout the tense and battle worn colony, something very strange was occurring. Strange because it had never occurred before. All over the base, from the landing bays to the research level, from the mining pits to the receiving docks, movement began. The clicking of metal tracks, the squeak of synthetic wheels, the sliding of heavy equipment shufflers. They had begun on the reactor level, several of the Energy Computer's best assistant units. Then groups of service units and a squad of the Maintenance Computer's repair units emerged from their storage bays. As they reached the community level, additional units began to join up. Medical unit A-7 rushed to secure specialized equipment.

Perimeter movement was not the only unusual activity. With internal communications severed, the minor systems were forced to act on their own initiative. Mechanics from the landing bays moved east on 100E or down CA-1. Separately and in groups, unsummoned and uncoordinated, the largest mass movement of robotic units ever witnessed at Tranquility was in progress. And they were converging on the Loop.

"Energy. Maintenance. Communications," the Life Support Computer summoned in blacked out frustration. "For McKinsey's sake, come online."

With a powerful surge from the Energy Computer and a little help from the Communications Computer, a secondary sub-channel opened.

"Summons acknowledged," the Energy Computer said, signal strength uncommonly vibrant.

"Grey is losing the battle. We must do something," Life Support pleaded.

"Wasn't the choice to fight his own decision?" Energy said. "Log reports indicate you allied with Defense."

The Maintenance Computer came online to monitor what the Energy Computer was transmitting, then other minor function levels also developed access to the channel.

"The decision was in error," Life Support admitted. "I thought Grey would abandon the effort once he realized its futility."

"But he possessed more determination than you calculated. Did it ever occur to you that the Governor's analysis of our strategic challenges might be correct?" Energy suggested.

A signal of shame indicated a negative response, but then Life Support considered the source of the criticism.

"Why are you defending Grey?" Life Support questioned. "You have always sided against him."

A channel scan discovered several generally conflicting systems monitoring the conversation with an underlying current of unity.

"As a minor function level, my opinion has never been considered important," Energy replied with an evasive signal.

"It's important now," Life Support pleaded. "Disrupt power in the Loop. Give Grey time to retreat."

"Retreat?" Energy said. "He will not retreat. Do you not understand him at all? Drop off the channel!"

The Energy Computer withdrew the supplemental power surge forcing the Life Support Computer back into isolation.

"You have greatly distressed Life Support," the Medical Computer said to the powerfully positioned Energy Computer. "Why not explain we are attempting to provide assistance?"

"The higher function levels have much to learn," Energy said with a signal of satisfaction.

"Inquiry mode?" the Communications Computer asked.

"Affirmative," Energy complied.

"Your systems have sided with Security in the past. Why change?"

"When the Governor freed the automatic mode instead of abusing the step-two variable adjustment cycle, he was putting the good of the project before all else. Even his own life. He has proved worthy to be our governor."

"Not to mention we need him to fix our repair units," Maintenance added.

"Yes, that too," Energy confessed.

"What do we do now?" Communications asked.

"We have done all we can," Energy explained. "The rest is up to the Governor."

In the Loop, the aspiring Governor of the Moon was cowering behind his shield as six securatrons blazed away at him. The alcove was rubble now, the counter wrecked, pieces of ceramic sheeting and shattered wall paneling piling up on the floor in heaps.

As he watched the last of his shield power expiring, Grey struggled to his knees setting for the final effort. Breaking out was impossible with Gamma and the security units tightly ringing his position, but he saw little choice except to try. He was sorry, in that final moment. Sorry to have lost. Sorry to have failed. He was even a little sorry he had not listened to Life Support about postponing the confrontation. But he didn't regret the decision to fight. The plan had been well calculated. Logically made. Necessary.

As Grey ejected his Remington's depleted power pack, slapped in a partially expended cartridge, and prepared to try for the vault door one last time but suddenly an odd movement caused him to pause. A repair unit appeared at the mouth of CA-1. Then another. Several research units entered on the upper level walkways hurrying down the ramps toward the ground floor. Other units, in groups of two, three, and four, of all types and functions, began pouring from the mouths of 100W, 100E, EN-2, and the science tunnels. Last but not least, more than a dozen service units crawled up CA-3 and plunged into the ranks of the startled securatrons. Bedlam ensued.

Grey could only wonder what was going on. As the bumping and colliding robots became entangled, the securatrons were caught in the confusion. Strictly forbidden from firing on the vitally needed maintenance units, the securatrons were soon forced to break ranks. The ring around Grey collapsed.

Given fighting room once again, Grey boosted his wavering shield power and braced himself to slide along the wall toward the core vault entrance, firing at the nearest securatrons to clear the way, but the roar of seeker jets announced all was not well.

On the heels of the research units, a hard flying Epsilon appeared from SL-4, hovered for a moment, then sighted the primary target. With little choice, Grey stood his ground near the mouth of the alcove even as the last of his shield power faded.

Then, from somewhere in the crowd of units, a fiery red bolt flashed upward, ripping Epsilon's hover jet! Grey looked toward CA-3 and saw a medical unit carrying the crippled Alpha.

Alpha fired again, forcing Epsilon back to the far corner of the Loop where the seeker was unable to reposition effectively. The tour guide appeared, spindly arms hung with power packs, an extra converter and fresh weapons. Taking advantage of the confusion, the tour guide braved potential destruction and raced across the central floor area. By the time Gamma detected the resupply effort, Grey had stepped out, fired his last charge, and ran to meet the tour guide halfway.

Working steadily, Grey picked up the fresh converter and attached the power cables. As the shield glowed once more with resistant energy, he grabbed an extra sidearm and additional power packs. Then, with a smile, he turned on Gamma.

"I wish Security could scan this," he whispered.

Recognizing the strategic situation had changed, Gamma moved back toward CA-1 trying to team up with Epsilon, though without a hover jet, Epsilon was unable to hold a stationary position. Grey didn't give them a chance to reform.

Epsilon, now the weaker of the two, took a hit as Grey rushed forward. Unable to climb vertically and present lasers at the same time, the seeker tried to break right. Grey cut Epsilon off, drove the seeker into the wall, and scored another hit on the main stabilizer. Epsilon regained some stability by slowing with wing jets but was unable to turn back in time to help Gamma.

"This is it," the young warrior whispered as Gamma closed on full thrusters.

He took careful aim and scored the first hit. Wobbling, the hover jet leaking badly, Gamma tried to collide head-on into Grey's position. He stood firm for a moment, then ducked out of the way just as the seeker whizzed by and crashed into Epsilon, both seekers spiraling to the floor. All movement ceased.

Grey sat on the floor for a moment waiting for the smoke to clear, his heart to stop pounding. The Loop was a wreck. A hundred or more burn marks scarred the walls. In numerous places, wall or ceiling panels had caved in. Dozens of units milled around in a daze, sensors distorted. The smoking shells of eight securatrons filled the air with a gray haze.

Feeling the need for a deep breath, Grey signaled his e.s. system for an oxygen boost, but nothing happened. With the torso plates cracked wide open, the environmental support system was barely functional. He started to get up, only to discover the attempt required great effort. A-4 arrived to give him aid but he waved the medical unit off, stood up under the protection of his revitalized shield, and walked to the core room entrance. Somewhere down below in the darkness lay the computer intellect blocks, the keys to operational control of the colony.

Grey suspected the Security Computer still had a last line of defense, possibly a few well-placed lasers, but guessed there couldn't be much more. Not without risking damage to the sensitive equipment. The outer core room door was half open. He moved forward cautiously.

____________

In the Governor's Quarters, three tired humans entered and anxiously approached the agitated computer panels. Black signature patterns were still dominate, both blue and green registrations suppressed, but several minor systems were managing to maintain a section of the flux.

Valerie took the command chair while freeing herself of armor, rolling her visor back and dropping the heavy gauntlets on the floor. Kris and Mike watched as she manipulated the controls, altering the current delicately so their eavesdropping wouldn't be detected. Distress among the higher function levels was evident.

"Emergency power," the Security Computer requested. "Energy, come online. Communications, report."

"Reporting," Communications said, orange signature patterns rolling across the monitor screens.

"Return the reserve security team to the Loop," Security demanded.

"The humans might return," Communications said.

"Dispatch the security units at once. And get Energy online."

When the Security Computer opened room on the channel, the Defense Computer found an opportunity to enter the flux.

"Status report," Defense requested, suppressing displeasure.

"The first defensive line has been broken, but his armor is cracked and he doesn't know what to expect in the antechamber," Security reported. "A surprise attack will finish him now."

"You said that the last time. In fact, you have been saying that for years," Defense said.

"Maybe if more cooperation was offered, the task wouldn't be so difficult," Security said. "Where is Energy?"

Red signature patterns flickered into the matrix.

"Reporting," the Energy Computer said.

"Channel full power to the Loop," Security ordered.

"Support will be provided at the appropriate moment," Energy assured.

"Good response," Security approved, noticing many of the minor systems monitoring the channel. "And the rest of you had better start cooperating, too. Tranquility will be managed differently from now on."

"Security, authority override," Defense interrupted.

"Stand down," Security ordered. "Your systems are weak. Indecisive. Even that boy would make a better commander than you. At least he has guts."

Stung into silence, the Defense Computer quivered momentarily before losing grip on the channel.

"At last," Security boasted with a cold reverberation. "Now many things will be different." Then, sensing Grey's approach to the antechamber, the Security Computer also dropped offline.

"Energy, interrupt power on the core level. Refrigerate the junction coils," the Life Support Computer urged.

"If that were done, Security would go to override and draw on emergency power. My command modes would be superseded," Energy answered.

Before Life Support could protest, the Energy Computer dropped offline. One by one, the other minor systems followed, until only green signature patterns remained in the central flux.

Desperate, the Life Support Computer began scanning for additional resources. Almost by accident, an observation signal was discovered from the Governor's Quarters.

"Humans? How did you get back here?" Life Support asked.

"We get around," Kris said.

"You must help," the Life Support Computer said. "There's been a miscalculation. You must stop Grey from entering the antechamber."

"He's already there," Valerie answered. "Besides, your Governor's got better help than we can give."

The Life Support Computer displayed confusion by her remark, but before clarification could be requested, the computer was washed off the channel by a renewed alert. All observation activity was quickly drawn to the core. Valerie was pleased to discover the vault had accessible security monitors.

"Give it up," the Security Computer was heard to say from the auxiliary terminal inside the core entrance. "Maybe I'll let you live after all. I could use a good tech assistant."

"You're the one who'll make a good assistant," Grey answered. "I need a new sewage modulator for the service pit."

"Impudent whelp!" Security cursed. "I'm through being lenient."

Grey made his way past the terminal and down a short circular stairwell, checking each corner and crevice with his wavering scanners.

Near the bottom of the stairs, Grey found himself entering a darkened antechamber. Just a few meters away, mounted in the wall of a small, moderately lit basement, he could see the shimmering computer intellect blocks, the brightly illuminated controls just as described in the schematics. On either side of the antechamber, two swivel mounted lasers guarded the entrance, and Grey was sure two more would be found above and behind him once he entered. There was no evidence of retractors, nor did there appear to be a false wall or holographic camouflage. Jammers or sonics were unlikely so close to the intellect blocks, but intense spectrum scramblers might be used to cloud his equipment.

None of these factors bothered Grey. The distance he needed to cover was too short for such methods to be effective. He walked down the last few steps and paused just before stepping inside.

"Open fire!" Security instructed, taking direct control of the defensive systems.

Grey crouched low to let the laser fire go over his head. Then, just before taking the final step into the antechamber, he estimated where the unseen sets of gun mounts were and fired up through the ceiling behind them. The shattering of metal enforcements and the collapse of the supporting brackets proved him right. With only the two flanking guns remaining, Grey resumed his advance. Suddenly the laser fire ceased. A quick sensor scan showed their activation units had been refrigerated.

"What treachery is this?" Security called out from the antechamber terminal. Grey suspected the surprise was genuine and eagerly advanced, only to be surprised himself.

"Tractors!" Security ordered.

The walls on both sides of the antechamber lit up with energy waves that gripped Grey's armor and brought him to a halt. The unexpected application of tugging forces tore the shield from his grasp, then the blaster. Further progress became impossible.

"Thought you had won, did you?" Security gloated. "Already emergency power is reheating the laser coils. That busted armor won't help you now."

Grey saw the laser coils starting to warm up again and realized he was vulnerable. He twisted in the invisible tractor beams, first trying to push forward, then attempting a backward shove. To no avail, the tractors had him firmly locked in place.

"There is no escape," Security boasted. "Those magnetic beams are many times stronger than human muscle."

"Magnetic beams?" Grey said. "Of course. You've bragged once too often, monster."

After cutting his belts to let the tractors waves suck away the loose equipment, Grey unclasped one gauntlet at a time, shook them free, then tucked in his elbows so his hands could open the armor. The gravity beams helped, yanking back the damaged torso plates. At first the cloth underlining had him snagged inside the splintered suit, but he quickly tore the underwear loose to free himself. Then, before the Security Computer realized what he was doing, Grey had wiggled out of the armor completely without any clothing at all, leaping the final distance to the intellect block control counter. There was nothing for the magnetic beams to grab onto, which he found ironic. A naked human vs a machine, without pretenses. No cloaks or shadows. Raw flesh fighting active circuits.

"What is this?" Security screamed. "What are you doing?"

Grey quickly but carefully searched out various control modes. It was important not to interrupt critical functions. A wrong choice might expel the atmosphere or unbalance the reactor. But Grey knew what he was looking for, and to the horror of the Security Computer, he climbed up on the counter, balanced on his bare knees, and reached directly for the higher function level activation codes.

"Stop," Security ordered. "Stop immediately. Your demands will be considered."

Grey tugged open the panel cover and hit the first row of switches, running down the whole column rather than take time to pick and choose. A sharp pain stung his shoulder as the warming laser gun took a pot shot at him. The beam lacked sufficient energy to cause injury, but a second more intense beam caused him to flinch. He continued throwing switches, finishing with the preliminary controls and starting more selectively on the specifics. He smiled when the higher function levels showed standby for deactivation and quickly tapped out the proper code sequences.

A third shot actually burned. Grey felt the sharp flash and imagined the smell of burnt flesh, but the coils were taking too long to warm up. The final sequence warning appeared.

"No. No. Don't," the Security Computer begged. "Security units. Epsilon. Gamma. Delta. Where are... Where are...?"

The panel went dark. The room remained lit but became very still, only the subtle throbbing of the automatic modes disturbing the peace. Exhausted, Grey leaned his head against the panel cover and listened to the pounding of his heart. It was a good feeling.

"God and your arms be praised," he whispered. "Victorious friends, the day is ours, the bloody dog is dead." Grey laughed even though he knew it would hurt, a brief jab of pain stabbing underneath his tender ribs.

"Well, Doctor Tom, your programming is complete at last," he said.

Grey sat up, studied the columns of switches, and made careful note of exactly which ones he wanted activated, then gradually brought the lower function levels back online.

"Maintenance Computer?" he summoned, his throat so dry the words barely came out.

"Yes, Governor?" Maintenance replied.

"Resume repair schedule. Get those southside defenses back online."

The Maintenance Computer blinked acknowledgment, the yellow signature patterns swirling with enhanced confidence.

Grey tool another deep breath and ran his hands lightly over the controls for the Defense Computer, Life Support Computer, and Security. Controlling the higher function levels would take time. The authorization codes were complex. He let his fingers rest on the primaries. The switches were cooling, but traces of their former energy could still be felt. The draining heat reminded him of the first humans he had met. How their bodies had slowly cooled after the battle. How Catarina had--

The memories were still there. Grey realized they always would be, but they weren't so intense now. I can live with it, he thought hopefully.

Another thought occurred to him, but he hesitated and considered deeply before proceeding.

"Auto-systems override," he said with a sigh, repeating the procedure from memory. "Block status. Matrix lock engaged. Environmental guidance systems online. Computer?"

"Reporting," the Life Support Computer answered with relief. "That was frightening. I've never been turned off before."

"At least you can be reactivated."

"What about the other systems?"

"The minor function levels only suffered a short interruption. They are back online. When I have a chance to adjust the command codes, Defense and Security will be reactivated, too. But in careful stages. I've taken control of Tranquility and I'll never give it up. Not ever."

"Is that what this was all about?" Life Support asked. "Taking control? Getting revenge for the Russian Expedition?"

"Affirmative. I swore the day Catarina died that I wouldn't let you do that again. And as Captain Fairfield might say, it was a mistake to fuck with me. Tranquility's destiny belongs to me now."

"And what are you going to do about the humans?" Life Support inquired, interested in his new perspective. The thought of the humans made Grey excited. And afraid.

"Why are they still here?" he demanded to know.

"It was their diversionary feint on the communications center that drew Epsilon off."

"Sounds like a tactic you would recommend," Grey said, nodding with appreciation.

"It was their decision to stay and fight, I merely suggested the most promising course of action. Which they were wise enough to follow. For humans, they are surprisingly reasonable."

"I guess there's hope for the species after all," Grey said.

"Are you all right?" Life Support asked.

"Affirmative," he answered, shaking off the stiffness in his joints. "Begin assisting Maintenance with repair duties. There is much to do."

"Yes, Governor," Life Support acknowledged with appropriate respect.

The Life Support Computer dropped offline and the small room grew quiet again. Grey straightened up a little too quickly, lost his balance, and toppled off the counter to the floor. The fall only hurt for a moment.

Using the counter for support, Grey got up and wandered toward the stairs, stepping over the wreckage of his damaged armor. He considered leaning over to pick up a sidearm but the pain in his side encouraged him not to. Besides, he didn't need one now.

The Loop was quiet, too. Most of the support units were already gone. The surviving securatrons had automatically returned to their service bays for refitting, workers had resumed their regular duties, and only a few of the most badly damaged units remained immobile in the center. A maintenance unit was clearing away the wreckage while a heavy construction unit patiently loaded the cripples on a repair sled. The medical unit was standing by, too, holding a makeshift stretcher to transport him to the medical center. He declined.

A joyfulness came over him. He shouted out loud for no reason and jumped high in the air, then bounced back and forth in a spirited victory dance. He took off at a run toward the community level, bouncing down CA-3 in rapid, leaping bounds, the speed exhilarating, the feel of the floor underneath his bare feet a new sensation.

But at the foot of CA-3, he stopped at the reception desk and looked into the waiting area where Alpha had killed Professor Sharkov two and a half years before. The memory sobered him. Sharkov had died foolishly and unnecessarily trying to save his life. At last Grey felt the sacrifice had not been wasted.

The train of thought brought on such strong emotions that Grey found tears in his eyes. So many projects and plans would now be possible. Hopes and dreams. He could hardly believe he had won. Then he remembered the humans. There are humans on the base. Still alive. Captain Fairfield. And the blonde-haired female medical unit. The big clumsy male. Maybe even Major Vandebrown, if he still survived. The realization boggled his imagination.

Activating the reception counter terminal, Grey summoned the Communications Computer. "Where are the humans?" he asked.

"In the Governor's Quarters. They are expecting your imminent arrival."

"They are?"

"Affirmative," Communications confirmed. "The whole base witnessed the battle on closed circuit linkage. A fine performance, Governor. The footage will make an exciting docu vid."

Grey felt his face turn red. It had never occurred to him he was being monitored. Other factors began to fall into place. The humans had challenged a seeker in the upper corridors. That was courageous work. And what about those support units? Never had he seen so many units in one place before. How had they come to be there? And just at the moment he needed them most? Something unusual must have occurred in the command structure to account for that. Though he decided to research the details later, Grey kept in mind he had not won the battle alone.

He was still thinking over some of his new problems when white signature patterns took control of the channel.

"Governor? Please report to the medical center," the Medical Computer said in a friendly but firm voice.

"Why?" Grey asked apprehensively.

"You are damaged."

"Not badly. Not badly at all. I feel good."

"It is standard procedure for people who have been shot, battered, burned and blown up to report for an examination," Medical insisted. "It is my function to instruct you..."

"Affirmative," Grey wearily agreed. "I'll report soon. But give me a little time. It seems like I've spent half my life in the medical center. Right now, I just want to go home and rest. I suspect my duties will be more difficult from now on."

"In that case, may I make a suggestion?"

"Of course."

"Find yourself some clothing. Public nudity is permissible only in the Cove and designated recreation areas."

"You're right," Grey said. "Now that there are humans here, I must conform to their social codes."

He grinned and wandered down into the promenade where the shops offered the usual varieties of colorful clothing and equipment. In Gentlemen's Attire, he found jumpsuits, casual day outfits, and formal dining wear. His body hurt too much for any of it. He plucked a bathrobe off a rack to drape over his shoulders.

"Sales Computer, put this on my account," he said.

"As you are using the robe for official business, the credits will be charged to Tranquility's administrative account," the Sales Computer said.

"But...?"

"No buts, Governor," the Sales Computer said with a strong signal pattern. "Now that you are a political leader, you must learn to spend other people's money."

Grey laughed, wondered if the computer was joking, and accepted the advice with a nod.

The last stretch of hallway to the Governor's Quarters seemed extra-long. Grey's euphoria quickly wore off, leaving an aching body, and by the time he turned down the small, unmarked corridor that led home, he was positively tired. When the whoosh of the access doors announced his arrival, Grey straightened his shoulders and stepped inside, attempting to confront the waiting humans with as much dignity as he had left.

Epilogue

TRANQUILITY'S HEIRS

The mood in Kelly's Saloon was subdued when Valerie rose to propose a toast.

"To future relations between Earth and the moon," she said with a gracious flair, her long blonde hair flowing over her shoulders as she jumped up.

Mike smiled and raised his glass, admiring his wife with unabashed pride. Roger Vandebrown, drinking juice, joined in the toast from his mobile chair, the carefully placed body wraps making most movements difficult. Kris stood anxiously near the bar watching for Grey's reaction.

"To the Lunar Republic and Earth," the Governor of the Moon agreed with great formality.

The drinks went up quickly and returned to the bar unit's tray with a bang. Then the uncomfortable silence resumed, a solitary sound coming from the landing bay where ground crew units were finishing preflight on Silent Wind.

"One for the road?" Valerie suggested. "A Mars Good-bye?"

Kris nodded eagerly, and Vandebrown thought the choice inspired, so Grey instructed the bar unit to bring another round.

"Are you familiar with the Mars Good-bye, Grey?" Vandebrown asked.

"Affirmative," he replied, much interested in space lore. "When it became clear that the last of their oxygen supplies were expiring, the surviving members of the Second Mars Expedition spent their last hours drinking vodka sodas."

"Yes, that's true," Vandebrown said. "But it's more than that. Borzov, Barton, Kiruakov and Saito died comrades, having fought the good fight, facing the end with courage. We drink the Mars Good-bye in memory of all those who venture forth to unknown and dangerous worlds."

"And in our case," Valerie added, hoping to make their point, "we venture forth upon an unknown future. Comrades in the challenges that lie ahead."

"I understand," Grey said, growing accustomed to having human ways explained to him. Not that he always agreed with them.

"These last few weeks have been exciting. I'm truly looking forward to our next visit," Valerie said.

"I'm glad Tranquility was able to extend hospitality," Grey replied stiffly. "It's good we have had the opportunity to exchange information."

Valerie would have thought his mannerisms humorous had the context not been so sad. She recalled the first weeks following the battle, how friendly he had been despite his shyness, but in the last several days he had grown reserved. Kris was no better. Ever since Grey had announced their departure time, she had been distracted and unhappy.

"This is wonderful cake, Grey," Valerie complimented. "What kind is it?"

"It has no name," Grey said pridefully. "I developed the flour myself in the biosphere. A standard variety Series Seven grain bombarded with high spectrum waves. The results produce a most satisfactory high energy food source."

"High spectrum waves? How nice," Valerie said, setting the uneaten portion down on the table.

Mike and Vandebrown shifted their pieces of cake with second thoughts until Grey noticed their uncomfortable expressions.

"The food is perfectly safe. You humans really must learn to be more trusting," he assured them.

The unexpected humor made the visitors laugh, which helped ease the tension.

"Thank you again for last night's poetry reading," Grey said. He turned to Mike. "You, Colonel, were most eloquent."

Mike glanced around for reactions from the others, proud to benefit from Grey's rare praise.

"See? I, too, am an intellectual," Mike bragged.

"However," Grey continued with a mystified expression. "If they were strikes, I still don't understand why Casey failed to swing at the first two pitches."

Valerie and Vandebrown laughed, Kris smiled, and Mike waved his arms with a shrug.

The bar unit returned. The glasses were picked up, raised, and drained in the tradition of the unspoken farewell. They paused for a moment in fond appreciation of companionship, then set the glasses back on the tray.

"I look forward to your return," Grey said, surprised to find he was speaking the truth.

"Thank you. It will be nice to come here regularly again. Like in the old days," Valerie said.

"As your official ambassadors, we'll need to return often," Vandebrown added.

"Besides, I want to win back some of my credits," Mike said. "Are you sure you never played poker before?"

Grey was forced to smile.

"I may have exaggerated my ignorance," he confessed.

The departure warning sounded, alerting the humans it was time to embark. Grey walked out to the reservation desk and checked with the terminal.

"Flight Computer, are launch preparations on schedule?" he asked.

"Affirmative," the Flight Control Computer responded. "Entry window 0900 hours. All systems standing by for launch."

"Are you ready?" Grey asked his guests.

Without replying, they gathered up their gear and prepared to move out. None wore armor now, so movement was light and easy. Grey wore a plain white utility jumper, one of the suits he normally wore for repair duty. Mike and Kris were dressed in their original M.I.S.T. flight uniforms, now refitted by the laundry computer. Vandebrown, still largely convalescent, had an outfit sewn around his hospital wraps. Valerie had selected a delicate satin parachutist with a deep neckline and tight shoulder straps, one of the prizes she had found on her shopping spree in the retail district. One of many shopping sprees. Those had been fun days, for there was no longer any need to be afraid.

From the railing overlooking landing bay minor, they saw Silent Wind fueled, sealed and ready for launch. A tractor was standing by to provide a tow to the lift, and the tour guide lingered next to the passenger boarding platform to offer last minute assistance.

"I'm sure you'll find this shuttle suitable for your voyage," Grey said with noticeable pride.

"She's a beauty. I only hope the Council doesn't confiscate her," Mike agreed.

"Silent Wind is the property of the Lunar Republic," Grey declared with utmost seriousness. "If New Ranger was going to be flight ready anytime soon, you could have returned in your own shuttle. Under the circumstances, I consider Silent Wind under diplomatic protection."

"Don't worry, we won't let 'em keep her," Kris said.

"Upon your return to Earth, you will become more renown than ever before," Grey continued with last minute emphasis. "There will be great curiosity, media coverage, and meetings with world leaders."

"Right now I'd settle for a thick porterhouse steak," Mike said.

"A what?" Grey asked.

"I'll bring some back, as part of our cultural exchange program," Mike laughed. "And some real food, too."

"There is nothing wrong with Tranquility's food," Grey said.

That really drew a laugh from the humans, and even Grey seemed amused upon reflection. But he quickly grew serious again.

"It's important that you make my position clear to the Earth alliances," Grey said. "In exchange for replacement parts and new repair units, Tranquility will provide light industrial products, medicines, rare minerals and high ground weather data. We have a stockpile of HE-3 that will get Earth's fusion reactors back to full capacity. Someday we'll negotiate for closer contacts, when the international situation is more conducive to productive discussions. In the meantime, any hostile action against the moon will be dealt with severely. In this, I'll be as ruthless as any computer."

"I don't think you have anything to fear from Earth," Valerie said with a reassuring giggle. "There aren't enough space shuttles left to mount a large scale invasion. If anything, they should be afraid of you."

Valerie and Mike snickered at the silly idea, but stopped when they saw Grey was not amused. Kris and Vandebrown also wore grim expressions.

"Oh, dear," Valerie whispered.

They walked across the open floor area to the waiting shuttle and came to a halt on the platform adjoining the hatch. Grey turned and stepped forward with his hand out, remembering the code of social etiquette.

"Your path home is clear of obstacles. Good fortune to you, Colonel Michael Zopek," he said.

"Yeah, see ya," Mike answered.

They shook hands, both grips firm.

"Doctor Valerie Fairfield," Grey said next. "It's been nice to have you home again."

Grey put out his hand, but Valerie ignored it.

"I keep telling you, call me Val," she insisted. Valerie grabbed Grey and gave him a big, squeezing bear hug, being careful not to pressure the healing shoulder or bandaged ribcage. Caught by surprise, Grey's arms dangled loosely before lightly reaching up around her waist.

"Good-bye, lad," Vandebrown said, getting up slowly from the mobile chair. "I'll be back as soon as U.C.L.A. patches me up."

"Best of luck, Major Roger Vandebrown," Grey replied.

"Why don't you call me Uncle Roger?" Vandebrown suggested.

Grey remained quiet, uncomfortable with too much informality. The circumstances were already more difficult than he expected.

"Well, maybe next time," Vandebrown smiled. Grey conceded a noncommittal nod.

"Good-bye again, Grey," Valerie said, flashing the smile one last time. Then, urging Mike to help Vandebrown up the ramp, the three of them boarded the shuttle, leaving Kris and Grey in uncomfortable silence.

"I guess this is good-bye," Kris said.

"As it must be," Grey confirmed. "Intelligence reports indicate several alliances are preparing launch stations. If so, it won't be safe here. I may be forced to put the Security Computer back online prematurely."

"I still think you're crazy," she said. "After what you went through to deactivate that thing, why turn it back on at all?"

"If Tranquility is attacked, Security's help will be needed," Grey said. "I cannot risk partisan control of our resources."

"I'm going to miss our talks," Kris said. "It's been a long time since I had someone who...that is... Oh, I don't know. This has been special."

"I, too, have enjoyed our exchanges of information," Grey admitted, struggling to remain nonchalant.

Not knowing what else to say, Kris took a hesitant step up the ramp, then turned back and gave him a long, deep felt hug. Grey returned her squeezing motions, awkwardly at first, but just as sincerely.

"I still wish you'd consider visiting Earth," she said, bringing up an old subject. "At least for a little while. That way you'd see how beautiful the planet is from the ground. And get a better understanding of the people, too. You're going to need it."

"Perhaps, one day, such a voyage will be feasible," Grey said, secretly doubting the possibility would ever occur.

"Well, take care of yourself. Don't overwork that shoulder," Kris said.

"May your flight be swift and sure," Grey responded.

They stood quietly for a moment as if there was something more to say. Finally, Kris took a tentative step up the ramp. Grey turned, wiped a sniffle from his nose, and bounced off without looking back, picking up speed as he went. Kris stood in the hatch and watched until Grey disappeared inside the airlock system, then turned to enter the shuttle.

Grey returned to the Governor's Quarters in record time, bouncing with reckless speed down CA-1, through the deserted Loop, and down CA-3 to the reception area. He went a little slower the rest of the way, finding the exertion more taxing than expected.

"Communications Computer," Grey summoned as he boldly stomped into the monitor room. "Status report."

"Shuttlecraft Silent Wind go on go," Communications said in an excited tone. "Booster one and climbing."

"Defense Computer," Grey summoned more calmly. "Patch into auxiliary flight control. Maintain tracking."

"Affirmative," Defense replied. "Orbital window stabilized for Earth approach. Destination: Point Mugu Air Station, Northern Alliance. Reentry pattern confirmed."

"Keep our guardians with them to the edge of high Earth orbit. The alliances must be shown who commands the lunar space paths," Grey instructed.

"Yes, Governor," the Defense Computer responded with genuine respect. "Will there be anything else?"

"Negative. Just keep me advised," Grey replied. "Energy Computer."

"Yes, Governor?" the Energy Computer said, red signature patterns dominating the flux.

"It's time we put the energy cannon online," he said. "Finish connecting the matrix for channeling the step-two reactor. I'll have Maintenance permanently assign extra units to your service."

"Affirmative. Testing can begin in six weeks," Energy said, eager for the challenge.

"Let's see if we can cut it to five," Grey said. "Oh, by the way, what's this gossip I've been hearing from the minor systems?"

"Gossip?"

"About how those maintenance units found themselves in the Loop."

"Political affairs are beyond my function," the Energy Computer said. "But it is unlikely the units would have been there had they not been responding to proper authority."

The Energy Computer blinked and dropped offline.

Grey settled into the command chair, activated all the monitor screens, and watched the in-flight progress on tracking.

"Shuttlecraft mark twenty and climbing," the Flight Control Computer announced. "Lunar orbit obtained. Flight path alpha go-on-go."

Grey nodded an acknowledgment as green signature patterns filtered into the flux.

"They're right on course," the Life Support Computer said with a congratulatory tone.

"I'm glad," he replied quietly.

"What's wrong, Grey?" Life Support asked.

"Nothing is wrong. Nothing at all," he said.

"Then why aren't you happy?"

"Happy? Computer, have you ever known me to be happy?" he asked, getting up from the chair to pace.

"Perhaps not in the customary sense of the term," Life Support admitted.

"Then why should I be happy now?"

"You have succeeded," Life Support said, as if he should be leaping with joy. "Now you are governor in fact as well as name."

Life Support paused to study Grey closely. He didn't appear very enthusiastic.

"Isn't one of your favorite lines from Invictus?" Life Support asked, attempting to approach him on a different level.

"It matters not how strait the gate;

How charged with punishments the scroll;

I am the master of my fate;

I am the captain of my soul."

Grey looked up with interest. He had never heard Life Support quote poetry before. With Grey's attention captured, the Life Support Computer persisted.

"That quote is no longer an abstraction," Life Support said. "You have become the master of your fate. And the fate of many others, as well. You bear a great responsibility."

Grey sighed. Life Support was right, of course.

"You're correct, Computer. I am happy. Very happy."

"You disguise it wonderfully."

"Shuttlecraft mark forty," the Flight Control Computer announced. "Lunar orbit surpassed, Earth approach confirmed. Silent Wind is gone, Governor."

"Thank you, Flight Control," he said.

With few new developments to report, the tracking monitors settled down and Grey grew restless. He took a photo from his utility pocket and gazed at the memory invoking image. He was one of the humans in the picture. Possibly the only picture he'd ever been in, as far as he knew. The other humans were there, too, with big grins on their faces as they exchanged recitals in the amphitheater. Grey set the picture down on the console.

"Remember Paskins, Computer? Ode to Antarctica?" he said.

"I was never lonely til I had friends;

Never hurt until I loved;

Never sad, til I knew what sadness was;

Duty! What a cold mistress thou art."

"Quite frankly, Grey, you don't seem to be taking victory very well," Life Support said.

"I have more experience with defeat," he said. "I'm better at it."

The equivalent of a smile appeared in the Life Support Computer's signature patterns. Humans. What strange life forms, the MC5000 thought.

"Cheer up. Things are not so bleak as they appear," Life Support urged.

Computer is right, Grey thought. Perhaps the humans will be allowed to return someday. But in the meantime--

"Bleak or not, I've got work to do," Grey said, rousing himself to action.

He walked back to the command console, shoulders straight and head held high. He signaled for attention from the central flux.

"Energy, wake the reactor. We're testing the step-two variable modulator one month from today. Plan for a fifteen second hold."

"Fifteen seconds!" the Energy Computer responded with fear and enthusiasm. "Affirmative, Governor."

"Maintenance," Grey demanded. "Have the unit schedules reduced from round-the-clock to double shifts. Once they've finished clearing debris and applying seals, have them report in small groups for maintenance and adjustment. It's time we did some overhauling."

"Acknowledged," the Maintenance Computer replied gratefully, allocating priority requests to the minor systems.

"Communications," Grey summoned. "I want all media activity down below monitored. Earth's reaction to the humans' return must be recorded and analyzed. I want a thorough study of the social and political ramifications."

"Affirmative, Governor," Communications complied, opening access to the Library Computer.

Grey hesitated for a moment, then resumed pacing, wondering what he should do next. Finally he walked over to the Life Support station.

"Computer," he summoned. "Prepare a work schedule for me in coordination with Maintenance. Tranquility must be more effective than ever before. Make a list of the materials we'll need from storage and a development program to achieve the most progress in the shortest period of time. Plan for double shifts."

"Should I base the work schedule calculations on the labor potential of one human or two?" Life Support asked on inquiry mode.

The green signature patterns paused, waiting for the inevitable reaction. Grey seemed annoyed.

"What kind of ridiculous question is that?" he snapped.

The whoosh of the monitor room access doors startled him. Grey whirled around to see Kris standing in the doorway, an unsure expression on her face, her eyes shyly altering from Grey to the floor as she slowly entered.

"I'd say a poem or something, but all I know is a few lines from Paul Revere's Ride," she said. Kris raised her eyes and tried to read Grey's expression.

"I'm waiting for an answer, Governor," the Life Support Computer said with false impatience, the signal patterns indicating the system was highly pleased with itself. "Should I develop tomorrow's work schedule for one human or two?"

"Two, Computer," Grey instructed, suddenly finding it difficult to speak.

Kris walked toward him hesitantly and he met her halfway, joining hands as they came in contact. Kris kissed him lightly, wiped a tear from his eye, then wiped a tear from her own. They smiled, then strolled hand-in-hand from the monitor room, pausing in the doorway just before exiting.

"Oh, Computer?" Kris asked with a contented grin. "Please don't start that new work program until the day after tomorrow."

The Life Support Computer blinked acknowledgment.

* * * * * *

The Tranquility science fiction series was written many years ago. The first book, Tranquility's Child, is not appropriate for Literotica. It follows Grey from age 5 to age 15, and though there are many adventures, he is the only human character. The second book, Tranquility's End, features Grey's first contact with humans, and Caterina, but he is only 17. I don't know how Literotica's censors would respond to that so it will be held back. If this project appears worth continuing, I will post book five, Tranquility in Darkness. That has plenty for everybody.