-1Chapter 11- a date and a decision

"Hey, Renton?" asked Eureka as the two were walking through town the next morning.

"Yes hon?"

"What do you think we should do?"

"About what?"

"Getting through the great wall to earth."

"I'm not sure Eureka. That's a big decision right now. Especially for Maurice and Avriana. It's a move that could endanger not only them but all of us."

"I know." she replied somewhat solemnly. "But we can't let the earth just die like Norb says it is. There has to be something we can do."

"We know what has to be done dear. The question is are we all up to it?"

"OH MY GOD!!!" yelled Nadia from their bathroom at home.

"What's wrong hon?!" Hap yelled as he ran to her from the living room.

"MOM!!" yelled Avriana from her room. "What's going on?"

"Everyone, we did it!!"

"Did what?" asked Hap.

"Hon, Avriana, WE'RE GOING TO HAVE A BABY!!"

"NO WAY!! Awesome mom!!" yelled Avriana. "Now I'll be a sister for real!!"

"Yes you will dear." Nadia replied gently. "You ok Hap?"

"I'm…just speechless. I can't believe it's actually happening for us."

"Well it is dear. Our dream is finally coming true."

"That's wonderful Nadia. Well, looks like we got some readjusting to do."

"Readjusting?" asked Avriana.

"Yep. We'll have to move to a bigger place so we have room for the baby for one. Plus we'll have to start getting clothes, furniture, toys, and anything else we need."

"Is that it? I already knew that. Let's get going then!"

"Well, how about we go celebrate first? Come on everyone, let's go out to a nice lunch."

"Maeter, can you get me a bottle for Timothy really quick?" asked Maurice. "Felicity has my hands full."

"Sure Maurice. Felicity, why don't you go play in the living room ok?"

"Ok sis!!" Felicity replied happily as she grabbed a book and ran out of the nursery.

"Thanks Maeter I owe you one."

"No problem Maurice. You owe me a bunch anyways." Maeter giggled as she handed a bottle to Maurice.

"Yeah yeah. So are you ready for tomorrow's date?"

"Ready? I'm more nervous now than I was at the dance on the ship. I'm almost scared to go."

"I know how you feel. Me and Avriana probably feel the same way."

"But you two have had dates before though."

"I know, but nothing this nice though. This is a first for both of us."

"Great. Well, I guess we'll see how well it goes."

"I'm sure it'll be fine sis, so don't worry."

"Worry? Who's worrying? I'm not."

"Yes you are." Maurice snickered as he took Timothy into his arms.

"SHUT-UP!!"

"What a nice day." said Gidget as she and Jessica were out at a local park playing. "What do you think Jessica?" all Jessica could do was smile and giggle at her mother as Gidget gently pushed her on the baby swing. Gidget never had a chance to really get out with her daughter. With her and Doggie always working at the ref shop they started, free time was somewhat of a commodity to them. But when she could, Bellforest memorial park was the place she brought her to play and wind down a bit. It was her favorite spot in town since it overlooked the forests outside of town. It was always peaceful and serene and the neighborhood children and parents were always friendly and talkative, so she was never alone or bored. But she didn't mind the quiet days every once in a while. It helped her to relax and just clear her mind on the busy days. "Renton, Eureka!!"

"Hey Gidget!" Eureka replied happily as they were walking into the park. "What are you doing here?"

"Just spending some time with Jessica. Doggie is running our ref shop today. I took the day off just for her."

"Having fun with her?" asked Renton.

"Just a blast. She absolutely loves the swings. She was on the teetering horses earlier and the merry-go-round."

"Not tired yet huh?"

"Not at all. I love being out with her like this." she replied as she continued to push Jessica gently on the swing. "Where are your kids?"

"They're all at home." Eureka replied. "Maeter and Maurice are watching over the younger ones."

"That's nice. So spending some time alone then eh?"

"Yes we are. We love taking walks alone sometimes. I guess today was one of those days."

"Problems at home?"

"No, not at all Gidget." Eureka giggled. "Things are just fine. In fact they're better than ever. We were just talking about the whole going to earth thing."

"Oh, yeah. When are we doing that?"

"Not sure." Renton replied. "We have to find out if we're all willing to take that dangerous of a step. It's a decision that could cost us everything. To tell you the truth, we're scared."

"So am I. I wonder when Holland and Talho will decide on what we're doing."

"Time will only tell Gidget. All we can do is wait."

"Yeah, you're right."

"Momma, push." said Jessica.

"Ok." Gidget replied gently as she did.

"I guess she does love the swings." Eureka replied with a warm smile.

"Yes she does. I have a hard time getting her away from them."

"I see." Eureka giggled. "Well, we had better be on our way. Have fun."

"We will Eureka. Nice seeing you Renton."

"You too Gidget. Bye now."

"Bye!" Gidget replied happily as the two walked out of the park. "Well, that was a nice visit. How about we go see your dad now?"

"NO! More swing!"

"Oh ok." Gidget gently giggled.

"Hey mom, are you going to go with us on the Gekko then since you're pregnant now?"

"I'm not sure Avriana. I know we have a dangerous mission coming up. I guess I'll have to decide when the time comes."

"We'll support you no matter what decision you make hon." said Hap as they were walking along. "If you want to stay home where it's safe you are more than welcome to do that."

"I know. But I do have a family that I have to take care of also that I want to be with. I'll just follow what my heart tells me I guess."

"That's all you can do. Well, where should we eat?"

"How about we go to that small Italian restaurant downtown?"

"I guess that'll work. How about you Avriana?"

"That's fine with me dad."

"Good. It's settled then. So, you ready for your date tomorrow night?"

"Yeah I am. I already have all my things out and ready so it shouldn't take long for me to get ready."

"Famous last words."

"Hey, we aren't that bad." Nadia giggled.

"Nadia dear, it takes you almost an hour or two to get going for the day. I'm done and ready to go in thirty minutes."

"Oh really? Do you have proof of that?"

"No but I have timed you girls so I know what I'm talking about."

"Well let me know when you have proof then we'll talk hon."

"Ok. I'll start putting timers on as soon as you girls hit the bathroom so I can record everything."

"DAAAAD!!!" yelled Avriana. "Leave us alone. It's not easy to look this beautiful you know."

"Oh brother." the two girls just chuckled and laughed at Hap as they walked arm in arm towards downtown.

"Well, looks like the base has Holland tied up again." Talho said to herself as she sat in the living room watching the local news.

"Grandma!!" yelled Sara and Lisa as they jumped onto her lap.

"Hey girls." Talho laughed as she hugged them. She was baby sitting the girls since Anemone had to go to the military maintenance shop and catch up on her work. "What are you doing?"

"Nothing." said Sara.

"Yeah. Just playing." Lisa replied cheerfully.

"Playing what?"

"Tag."

"Now what did I tell you girls about running in the house?"

"Not to." they both replied sadly.

"Well how about we go outside and play then. I'll get Stephen out there too."

"Yay!!" Lisa yelled as she went for her light jacket. "You're it Sara!"

"No you are!" Sara laughed as they ran into the backyard.

"Stephen, come on! Go play outside!"

"Ok momma!!"

"Sarah, will you quit daydreaming!!" yelled Katie. "We've got work to do!"

"Huh, what?"

"Geez, you're getting worse everyday. Renton is married now! He's got five kids! Get over it!"

"I know! But I can't! I love him!"

"Sarah, listen to yourself." Michelle replied. "You're pathetic. We've been having to take up your slack because you keep thinking about him. We need to find you a man so you can get your mind off of him. What do you think Katie?"

"Agreed. I know it's a long shot, but I think it's time we set up some blind dates for her."

"Blind dates? Oh come on girls."

"Sorry Sarah, it's for your own good. Renton has been taken for a long time now. Time to let him go. Besides, it's not a good idea to be in love with your boss."

"Well, ok. I guess I could give it a try." she said quietly.

"Good. We'll start this weekend." Sarah just sat there quietly and thought to herself "I will have Renton. I can't love anyone but him. He's the one for me. There isn't anyone out there that I love but him."

"Hey, Renton?"

"Yes love?"

"Why did we have to fall in love like we did?"

"I'm not sure, but I'm glad we did. Because of that I have the most wonderful wife in the world."

"Yeah, you're right." she replied warmly as she snuggled close to him on their walk home. "I can't see myself anywhere but with you. You've given me a wonderful home, two beautiful children, and a life that I could never dream of. I guess I did make a wonderful decision when it came to falling in love with you."

"We both did hon. And you also gave me three other wonderful kids too. I wouldn't give up anything we have for the world.

"Me neither." Eureka replied as they stopped. "Renton, what's wrong?" and all he did was turn to face her and gave her a warm and passionate kiss. After what seemed like blissful ages to her, Renton stepped back and said "I love you Eureka. Nothing in this world will ever change that."

"I love you too Renton." she replied with a look of soft love in her eyes. Eureka then held onto his arm and rested her head on his shoulder as they made their final way home to their kids. As they did, Sarah watched from a little ways back while on her lunch break, tears of sadness in her eyes. "Why? Why do I love him so? I don't want to end up like what Nadia did, but my heart is aching over him. Please Renton, help me." she thought to herself as she ran in the other direction towards home.

"Kids, we're home!" said Eureka a little while later as they walked in the door.

"Hi mom!" said Linck happily. "How was your walk?"

"It was nice dear. Where are your older brother and sister?"

"In the nursery playing with Felicity and Timothy."

"Ok. What have you been doing today?"

"School work."

"I see. Good work Linck. Keep it up ok?"

"I will mom."

"Have you guys had lunch yet?" asked Renton.

"No we haven't dad."

"Ok. I'll make something up then."

"I'll check on the little ones dear." Eureka replied as she hung up their coats in the hallway closet.

"Alright. What do you want for lunch Linck?"

"How about burgers and fries?"

"Indoor picnic lunch. I think we can do that."

"Thanks dad."

"No problem Linck."

"Daddy!!" yelled Felicity as she ran into the kitchen.

"Hey sweetie." he laughed as he picked her up. "Hey kids."

"Hi dad." said Maeter.

"Hey dad." Maurice replied. "What's for lunch?"

"Your brother decided on burgers and fries."

"Works for me."

"Maeter, where is your dress you got yesterday?" asked Eureka.

"In my room hanging up. I need shoes though to go with it."

"I was going to ask you about that. We'll go out later and get you some shoes and accessories for it."

"Thanks mom."

"Thank you private." said Holland as the soldier handed him an incident report. "Any idea over what the fight was over?"

"Negative sir. Still waiting on that report."

"Very well then. Dismissed."

"Thank you sir."

"Busy day?" asked Dominic as he walked into Holland's office.

"Just a little. Just had a fight in the mess hall a little while ago. Still waiting to hear what the cause was."

"I see. How many people were involved?"

"From what I see about ten."

"What are we going to do with them?"

"Let's put them on three days of extensive training exercises. That should calm them down a bit."

"I'll do that right away. I was going to ask you something though."

"What?"

"When are we going to start our mission to earth?"

"Right now I'm not sure. I'm still waiting for the data from Tresor to come in whether or not the ships and LFO's can handle the rough entry. I talked to Morita earlier today and it could be several days yet before we hear anything."

"How's Mischa doing?"

"Her and Greg are doing well. From what I hear another archetype was just unearthed. The researchers at Tresor are looking at it right now so they have their hands full."

"Sounds like it."

"Oh, one sec Dominic." Holland replied as his phone rang. "Commander Holland Novak speaking."

"Hey Holland."

"Hey Hap. Surprised to have you calling here."

"I know. Listen, we've got some good news for you."

"Oh really? What's up?"

"We just found out today that Nadia is pregnant."

"Well congratulations you guys. When's the due date?"

"Not sure yet. She has to make an appointment at her doctors and find out."

"Well let us know soon ok?"

"We will Holland. I'll let you get back to work then. Talk to you later."

"Ok Hap. Congratulations again."

"Thanks. Later."

"Bye now."

"So they finally got pregnant eh?" asked Dominic after Holland hung up the phone.

"Yep. They deserve it though. They've been married long enough."

"That they do. Anyways I'll go put those troops on those training exercises."

"Ok. Have drill sergeant Wilco handle them. He's the toughest guy we have."

"Will do Holland. I'll report back later."

"You do that captain. Dismissed."

The next day was a flurry of excitement among everyone as news of Nadia's pregnancy spread around the crew and her friends at work. The most excited was Avriana though who not only was finally becoming a real sister, but was excited about her date with Maurice that evening. She just wished it was with him alone.

"You look beautiful dear." said Nadia as Avriana got ready in her room.

"Thanks mom. I'm glad I went out and got the accessories for it today. It really sets the dress off."

"Yes it does. You must really like that gold necklace we gave you for your birthday."

"I love it mom, but I only wear it on special occasions."

"That's fine. That's your decision. So, you nervous?"

"A little I guess. We've never had a date like this before so it's kind of special."

"I bet. I'm surprised Holland and Talho did something like this."

"I'm not. Talho is known for doing spur of the moment things. You should know that."

"Yeah, that's true. Are you guys walking there?"

"I hope not. I don't want to ruin this dress by dragging it on the ground."

"Well if they don't have a ride planned, let me know. I'll drive you."

"Thanks mom."

"Hey Maeter, you ready yet?" asked Maurice.

"Almost!" she replied from her room.

"Looking good there son." said Renton. "You'll knock her dead."

"Well, I don't want to do that. It might upset Hap and Nadia." Maurice laughed.

"Ok smartalick."

"Need any help Maeter?" asked Eureka through her bedroom door.

"I've got it mom!"

"Ok dear. Hurry up or else you'll be late!"

"I will mom! I'm almost ready!"

"Alright. I'll be in the Nirvash waiting."

"I can't wait until that gravel drive to the house is done." said Renton. "It'll make things much easier for us instead of having to fly out of here."

"Why hon?"

"You'll see."

"My dear Renton, what do you have up your sleeve?"

"I'm not telling hon. You should know that by now."

"You and that wall Renton."

"I know hon. Maurice, what time do you guys have to be there?"

"Six."

"Ok. That gives you an hour. You guys should be fine."

"I'm ready." said Maeter as she walked out of her room. "How do I look?"

"You look beautiful Maeter." Renton replied as he looked at his oldest daughter. "Justin won't know what to say when he see's you."

"Good. That's the effect I was going for. Looking good there big bro."

"Thanks Maeter. Come on. Mom is waiting for us in the Nirvash."

"Alright. Bye dad!"

"Have fun guys!"

"Looking pretty smashing there Justin." said Hilda as he walked out of his room.

"Thanks Hilda. Geez, I'm nervous. I hope tonight goes ok."

"You'll be fine. I'm sure Maeter won't be able to resist once she sees you."

"Yeah and knowing me I'll just freeze on the spot and not do anything. Man, why is love so complicated?"

"If I could explain that I would." Matthieu chuckled. "I guess that's why I'm with Hilda."

"That had better not be an insult Matthieu." Hilda replied with a sly grin.

"Hey, I didn't mean anything by it!!" he replied nervously as Hilda threw a magazine over his head.

"Yeah, whatever. So, Justin, do you guys have anything planned after dinner?"

"I'm not sure yet. I guess we'll see what happens. All I know is that we're meeting at the center of the concourse where the restaurant is located."

"You know how to get there right?"

"Yep, I've got it. In fact, I'm going to head out now and get there a little early."

"Good idea. Have fun!"

"Thanks guys! See you later!"

"Are we getting Avriana first?" asked Maeter after Eureka dropped them off near the concourse.

"Nope. She called and Nadia is dropping her off here. Actually, speak of the devil. There she is."

"Hey Avriana!!" said Maeter as she got out of the car.

"Hey guys! Thanks Mom. See you later."

"Have fun!" Nadia replied as she drove away.

"Looking beautiful as always." said Maurice as he gave her a gentle kiss and a hug.

"Thanks sweetie. Looking good there Maeter. Justin won't stand a chance with that setup."

"I hope so. That's the effect I was going for."

"Is he here yet?"

"Not sure. We just got her ourselves."

"Well we're still early. Maybe he's waiting for us at the restaurant." Maurice replied as they entered the concourse.

"Nope, there he is sitting at one of the benches." said Maeter happily. "Justin!!"

"Maeter!" he replied as she ran up and hugged him. "I thought I was going to be nervous tonight but I guess not. You look amazing."

"Thanks. You're looking good too."

"Thanks. Maurice, Avriana, you're looking nice this evening."

"Thanks Justin." said Maurice. "Well, at least we got here early. From what I hear this place gets pretty packed."

"No doubting that." Justin replied as he put his arm around Maeter's waist. Maeter just blushed slightly and did the same.

"So, shall we go in?" asked Avriana.

"Let's. I'm hungry." said Maeter.

"Hey, did anyone ask who's name it was under?" asked Avriana.

"It's under Novak love. I already asked."

"Ok."

"I wonder what caused Holland and Talho to do this?" asked Justin.

"Knowing my grandparents, who knows." Maeter giggled. "They always surprise us."

"I guess so."

"Reservations?" asked the attendant at the door.

"Novak for four." Maurice replied.

"Ahh yes, we have your tables waiting."

"Tables? I thought it was only one."

"No sir. Two separate booths next to each other."

"Well then, I guess it's not really a double date after all. Come on guys."

"A date alone with my first girlfriend. I like that." Justin chuckled.

"Hey Mr. McKarthy, you just behave yourself." said Maeter.

"Oh I will. If I don't the parental units would kill me."

"I would too."

"Point well taken." Justin laughed.

"Your sense of humor is getting better. I like that."

"I guess so. You're rubbing off on me a bit."

"Good. That means I'm doing my job right."

"Here are your booths." said the attendant. "Enjoy your meals."

"Thank you." said Avriana. "Well, see you two lovebirds in a bit."

"We're just right next to you." Maeter giggled.

"I know. But we can't see you because of the divider."

"That's true. Hey, I wonder why this restaurant is empty? Isn't it usually packed?"

"I noticed that. Oh well, it's more romantic that way. Have fun guys."

"We will." Justin replied after they sat down.

"Hey dear."

"Hey Talho." Holland replied as he gave his wife a gentle kiss.

"How did things go on base?"

"Quieter than yesterday since I took care of our little hooligans. Everytime they see me now I get the evil eye."

"Well they deserved it for fighting on base."

"No doubt. So, are the kids out on their date?"

"Yep. I just talked to Nadia and she said Avriana never looked better. I think we did well."

"I just hope we're not spoiling them. We do get them quite a bit."

"Yeah, well our kids are spoiled too."

"That they are." Talho giggled. "If you're hungry there's some meatloaf staying warm in the oven."

"Thanks Talho. That sounds awesome. The kids in bed?"

"Yes they are. Dominic and Anemone are downstairs with their kids watching TV the last I saw."

"That's fine. How was your day?"

"It was alright. I was at work at the maintenance facility today catching up on paperwork. Diane took care of Stephen and Angel."

"How far behind were you?"

"Not too bad. The other ladies at the office helped keep my load down. I'll have to kill our accounting office though. I had to readjust a bunch of things they screwed up on."

"Sounds like fun."

"Believe me, it wasn't. I spent almost six hours doing that alone today. Everything else was inventory, payroll, and applications."

"Applications?"

"Yeah. We keep getting transfer applications from the base. Apparently you have quite a few soldiers that want to work up there with us."

"That's weird. I haven't seen any bulletins for it."

"I don't think they want you to know about it."

"You're fully staffed right?"

"Yes we are. We don't have room for anyone right now."

"Ok. I'll take care of that tomorrow."

"Please do. I'm tired of getting them on a daily basis. Lot's of times it's the same person sending them over and over."

"Great. Thanks for keeping dinner warm by the way."

"You're welcome. I thought you'd enjoy it."

"You thought right."

"Well, that was a nice dinner." said Maeter as the group of four left the restaurant. "Too bad the time went by too fast."

"Anyone have any ideas of what we should do next?" asked Justin.

"I have an idea."

"And what's that Avriana?"

"Well, the park is nearby and the view at night is absolutely wonderful. How about we go check it out?"

"I'm guessing you two have been there before?"

"Yes Justin, you could say that."

"Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt. What do you think Maeter? It's supposed to be a full moon tonight."

"Sounds wonderful Justin. Let's go everyone."

"Hey Nadia, any word from the kids yet?" asked Hap. "They should've been done with dinner a while ago."

"Good point. I haven't heard anything from them. What time is it?"

"Eight forty five."

"Yeah, they should've been back a while ago. I'll call the restaurant and see where they're at."

"It's so beautiful." Maeter said peacefully as she sat cuddled close to Justin.

"It is a magnificent view." Justin replied with a warm smile and a gentle kiss. "Good idea Avriana."

"Thanks Justin. It's one of my favorite spots thanks to Maurice here. He's the one who first showed me this."

"Well you're a lucky girl."

"I think Maeter is too having you around."

"Yes I am." Maeter giggled. "I knew I liked him since he first knocked me over in Alcoa city. The way I felt when our eyes met was definitely a new feeling to me, but it was a wonderful feeling. One that'll I'll never trade anything for."

"Yeah, same here Maeter. Hey Maurice, when did you first find out that you liked Avriana?"

"Oh Geez, that was almost five years ago. It was one day after we rescued her from a rebel military base at Whyndom Hills. Dad brought her down the hangar to meet me and the Newhope. When our eyes met, well, that was it for some reason. We were only nine at that time. Time went by and, well, here we are. Totally in love and devoted to each other."

"You were a rebel prisoner Avriana?!"

"Well, I wasn't really a prisoner. I was discovered by them and brought to their base by a couple of their researchers. I just sat in a room and never talked to anyone. I just sat on my bed and watched out the windows all day. The night they came to get me I was somewhat restless that night, like something had come over me. I really started feeling alive all of a sudden. By the time I had gotten on the Gekko, I felt calm and relaxed, like I was at home in peace. My first night I stayed in Renton and Eureka's room on a spare bed. The next day when I met Maurice, my heart just jumped and that was it for me. I knew from that day forward that he was my future no matter what happened."

"Now that's romantic no matter what you say."

"Yes it is Justin. I hope I can have that kind of future with you." Maeter replied softly.

"Maeter, I'll give you that future, you have my word. From the day I met you, I knew there was something special about you. I don't what it was, but something drew me to you. I'm not losing you now or ever. And besides, I didn't give you that necklace for nothing you know."

"Well, I guess I should give you a thank you present then."

"Now you don't have to buy me anything Maeter. Your love is all I need right now."

"I wasn't talking about buying anything." she then gave Justin a soft caring kiss of her own.

"Ok, now THAT I'll take anytime." he said softly after she released her lips from his.

"I think Avriana got the same idea." Maeter giggled as she watched the two kiss. "HEY! Enough of that you two!!"

"Oh Maeter." Avriana giggled. "If you two can then so can we." Both girls just laughed at each other gently as they cuddled close to their boyfriends and looked at the clear moonlit and starry sky.

"Well they aren't at the retaurant." said Nadia after she hung up the phone. "I wonder where they went?"

"Doesn't Maurice usually have a communicator on him in case of emergencies?"

"Sometimes but not all the time. I'll call Eureka and find out."

"No he doesn't Nadia, I'm sorry." said Eureka a little bit later on the phone. "He does have it on him usually when he's out."

"Ok. Thanks Eureka. I'm just worried that's all."

"I understand. I'm worried too since this is Maeter's first real date out alone without us. Maurice will keep her safe though along with Avriana."

"Yeah, that's true. I'm sure they'll show up somewhere soon."

"I know. If they don't though call me right away so we can go look for them."

"I will Eureka. I'll call as soon as I hear anything."

"Alright. Bye now."

"Bye."

"Well, I guess we should be heading back home." said Avriana a little while later. "But it's so hard to leave such a beautiful view."

"No doubt." Justin replied as he held Maeter close in his arms. "Who knew a city like Bellforest could look so nice under a full moon like this."

"Well now you know." Maeter replied softly. "I hope we can come back here soon."

"We will Maeter, I promise. But it is getting late and I'm sure the parents are wondering where we're at."

"I'm sure they're worried." said Maurice. "We'll head to Holland and Taho's house since it's close to here. We'll call and check in from there."

"Sounds like a plan to me. Let's go before they pull the grounding rule on us."

"Well hey kids." said Talho after they knocked on their door. "What are you doing here?"

"We figured we come here and check in with our parents since you guys were close." said Avriana. "I hope you don't mind."

"Not at all kids. The phone is in the kitchen. You can call from there and let everyone know you're safe."

"Thanks Talho." Justin replied.

"No problem Justin. Just keep it down guys. Angel and Stephen are sleeping."

"We will."

"Hey, something going on that I should know about?" Holland chuckled as he came downstairs. "Where's the party?"

"Very funny grandpa." Maurice chuckled.

"Ouch, that hurts. Now I know I'm old if you're calling me that."

"The kids just came here to call their parents hon." said Talho. "We were the closest ones around with a phone."

"That's fine. At least they're safe."

"Dad's on his way Maurice." said Maeter. "He'll be here in fifteen minutes."

"That's fine. Did you get a hold of Nadia Avriana?"

"No, she's sleeping. Dad is on his way though. He'll give you a ride home too Justin."

"Works for me."

"So Maeter, how was your first real date with Justin?" asked Talho.

"It was amazing Talho. The dinner was awesome and then we went to a park that Avriana knew that overlooked the city. It was really romantic the way the city glowed under the full moon."

"Sounds like you guys had a fun time. Did you guys get desert at the restaurant?"

"No we didn't. Why?"

"Come on. Hot fudge sundae's for everyone."

"Commander Novak speaking." said Holland the next morning while at work on the base.

"Holland, this is Dr. Morita."

"Hey Morita. How can I help you?"

"There's nothing you can do for me, trust me. I've got that data for you."

"Great. What's the news then?"

"The LFO's and Gekko can make it without even breaking a sweat. The Izumo might have a little difficulty though since it doesn't have the shields like you do. There is only one way that'd they make it without any damage."

"And what's that?"

"You two would have to basically fly one above the other at a very close range so your shields would also cover them. It's a manuever that'll put your pilots and the skills of the Izumo's pilot to the ultimate test. Something like that has never been done before. I suggest you guys practice that before you even try doing it for real."

"Sounds like it. What's our percentage of making it through?"

"If you do it right you'll have about a seventy five percent chance of getting through with little to no damage. Do it wrong, your chance of survival is less than fifteen percent."

"Not very good odds if you ask me."

"Well those are the numbers you get. I can't explain it any better than that."

"That's fine. I'll talk to the crew and Jurgens and see what we should do next."

"You do that Holland. If any other questions come up let me know."

"I will. Thanks Morita."

"No problem Holland. Bye."

"Later."

"And that's the info we've got right now." said Holland as everyone had met at the base to go over the information that Morita gave him. "Now I do realize that we don't have to do this and I won't force anyone, but time is short right now. If things are going to continue at this rate, the great wall may close forever and earth will never be seen again. The call is basically up to all of you. Renton, Eureka, talk it over with Maurice, Avriana, Anemone, and Dominic soon. It's all in your hands. Thanks for stopping by everyone. Have a good afternoon. Dismissed."

"So we can make it after all." said Renton as they all left. "The question is now do we go ahead with it."

"Well, we know we'd be fine." said Anemone. "But the Gekko and Izumo would have to do some fancy maneuvering in order to get through without killing themselves."

"Thus the question is, is it worth the risk." Dominic replied. "That's a pretty close flight trajectory for those two. I'm not sure they can do it as bulky as the Izumo is."

"I'm just worried about the kids." said Eureka. "That's a lot of pressure on them."

"That it is hon." Renton replied. "They've been through so much already in their young lives. But like Holland said, it's up to us. One wrong move though and it could cost everyone we know their lives. I still don't know if it's worth that sort of risk."

"We'll figure that out as the days go on I guess. Let's go home and think it over there."

"That's fine dear. Talk to you two later then."

"Bye guys. See you later!" said Anemone happily as they split off for home.

"Hey, Maurice, have you ever been to earth?" asked Avriana as they walked through the park later on in the day.

"Yeah, I have once."

"What was it like?"

"Well, where we were at it was heavily wooded on a beach by an ocean. That was the first time when we saved the earth. It was also the time where we almost lost mom."

"Yes, I know. She told me all about it while I was sick."

"Well, dad got sick too during that time. Mom was so worried about him during that day and night. It wasn't until the next morning when she finally told him she loved him. It was then that we truly became a family."

"Sounds like quite an adventure."

"It was."

"Listen, Maurice, I know it's a really big risk, but I'm willing to take a chance and go down there with you guys."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. As long as I'm by your side, I'll do anything."

"Well, I want to think about it some more first. Is that ok?"

"That's fine love. Take your time. No pressure right?"

"Of course." he replied with a warm smile. The two then sat at their favorite bench that overlooked the city and sat there quietly listening to the peaceful sounds of the wind and the city below them.

"Hey, Hap."

"Yes Nadia?"

"I'm not sure if I want to go with you guys to earth if you do go. With the odds as low as they are if we make a mistake, I'd hate to lose our child let alone our lives together."

"I expected a reaction like that from you. I'm as worried as you are believe me. But I'm going to help out earth and my friends. Like I told you, you have the option of staying home if you want. I can watch over Avriana with no problems."

"Yes, I know. But if I lose you guys, I lose my family. That's what I'm worried about."

"Listen hon, you have plenty of time to make any decision you want. There's no added pressure ok? Just let us know whenever you want."

"Thanks Hap. You're wonderful, you know that?"

"Hey, I try dear. Anything for you." Nadia just let out a gentle giggle and gave her husband a gentle kiss as they sat on their sofa relaxing and watching TV.

"DOGGIE! WATCH THOSE CLEARANCES!!" yelled Talho as the Gekko and Izumo did flight exercises over the base the next morning.

"I'm trying!! This isn't a walk in the park you know!!"

"DIVE! Izumo is closing in too fast!"

"Roger that!"

"Dammit!!" Talho yelled just as they cleared the Izumo. "That's fifteen tries now and we still can't get the timing right. All right, let's land this bird for the day Doggie. I'm sure everyone could use a break."

"Sounds good to me. I haven't been this tired from flying in a while. I'm actually breaking a sweat."

"You aren't the only one. Let's go home."

"Hey, what's everyone doing here?" asked Talho as she, Doggie, and Jobs left the ship.

"We're all going." said Hap. "We all talked between ourselves and each other and we're going in together. Once a family always a family."

"You're all sure of this? It's a huge decision. Especially with you Nadia."

"It's alright." Nadia replied. "I realized that being with my family is the most important thing right now. Besides, who would take care of you guys if I wasn't around?"

"Thanks Nadia." Talho replied with a warm smile. "Holland would be proud of all of you."

"And I am." Holland replied as he walked out of the bases main building. "I've been listening to everything and I'm more proud of you guys than any commander could be. It'll be a long hard road though before we get there since we have a lot of training to do. I want only the main people on board the ship for practice. The Nirvash, Venturion, and Newhope will only have a one shot deal, so you guys already know what you have to do. Until then, stay at home and relax. Hopefully we'll be ready in a couple of weeks. And thank you."

"So they are going." said Sarah to herself as she watched the group from around a corner. "I guess I'll have to somehow sneak onto the ship and keep Renton from going. But how? There's so many people on their crew. Have to think and do it fast. This is my future with Renton we're talking about."

"HEY, YOU!!" a guard yelled. Sarah's eyes suddenly went wide as she saw one of the bases guards running at her. Quickly she turned and ducked around another corner to avoid the guard and left the base before he could catch up. "Dammit, where'd she go?"

"What's wrong?" asked Holland as he caught up to the guard.

"There was someone watching you guys from around the corner of the main building sir. He or she got away though before I could catch up and perform an arrest."

"I see. Alright, I want extra security from now on, especially around the ship. If someone is trying to stop us, we need to catch them first before they can do anything."

"Aye commander! I'll be right on it!"

"Good."

"Well that was weird." said Dominic as Holland returned to the main building. "Who would want to stop us? No one knows what we're doing except us, the federation, and Tresor."

"I'm not sure Dominic. I doubt it's a rebel spy but I'm not taking any chances on that. I know they're weak but they're willing to try anything."

"That is true. Did you increase the security then?"

"Yes I did. We should be fine from here on out."

"That's good. Well, looks like we have a lot of work ahead of us. Better get to it."

"Understood captain Sorrel. Let's get to work."

"Eureka dear, I'm going to head to the shop and check on things there really quick. I'll be home shortly."

"Ok hon. Come on kids. There's chores to be done."

"Ok mom." they all replied. Renton just chuckled to himself lightly as he headed towards the shop. When he got there, Mack was working on a car outside and Dustin and Joe were working on a civilian LFO inside.

"Hey boss." said Joe. "How's it going?"

"Keeping busy as always. How's the wife and your new little one?"

"They're both doing great. Thanks for asking."

"You keeping Dustin out of trouble?"

"How is that possible?"

"I HEARD THAT!" Dustin yelled as a wrench went flying by Joe's head.

"IT WAS A JOKE!! Geez, someone ought to warn the world about your temper." all Renton could do was laugh as he headed up to his office to check on his paperwork. As he did, he noticed Sarah wasn't at work, just Katie and Michelle. He thought nothing of it though. He just figured she was out to lunch since it was about her lunch time anyways. Unfortunately he was sadly mistaken.

"I'm home dear." he said a few hours later as he walked in the door. "Hey, you have to quit cooking hon. I always end up with a huge appetite whenever you're in the kitchen."

"I know. That's why I always cook." she said gently after she kissed him. "It keeps that appetite of yours down."

"Yeah, thanks. Hey, what are you doing there Linck?"

"Homework assignments dad."

"Want any help?"

"Nope, I've got it."

"Ok. Let us know if you do."

"I will dad. Hey, are we actually going back to earth?"

"Yes we are Linck."

"Can we go back to that one beach? The fruit there was awesome."

"We'll see Linck." Renton chuckled. "We've got a lot of work to do first."

"Ok."

"Where's Maeter hon?"

"Out with Justin. Maurice is with Avriana."

"I see. Probably spending time with each other before we have to get back to work."

"Most likely."

"DADDY!!" yelled Felicity as she ran out of the nursery.

"Hey sweetie." he laughed as he picked her up. "What are you doing?"

"Coloring in my coloring books."

"I see. What is your brother doing?"

"Sleeping."

"That's good. Come on, let's go get cleaned up. Your momma almost has supper ready. Let's go Linck."

"Ok dad." he replied as he put his things down from school.

"Thanks for taking a walk with me Justin." said Maeter as they walked through town.

"Sure Maeter, anytime."

"Hey, are you sure you want to go with us to earth? It's going to be the biggest decision in your life you know."

"No, the biggest decision in my life is if I decide if I want to marry you when we get old enough."

"Hold your horses there bucko. Let's get through school first before you EVEN think about that."

"I know that. Geez, who do you think I am?"

"I'm sorry. I guess I have to get used to you being like this."

"It's alright. I have a lot to get used to about you also, so let's call it even ok?"

"That's fine." she said with a smile as she held onto his arm. "Hey, Justin, what is it about me that you really like?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Just wondering."

"Well, it's hard to pick just one thing, but if I had to pick one I'd have to say it's your loving caring personality."

"Why's that?"

"Well, it drew you to me for some reason, so that has to be a good thing. What about you with me?"

"Your charm and personality also really. There was something about your heart that told me that you had a heart of gold beating in you. I can tell already that you're going to be caring and protective of your friends and family."

"You got that right Maeter. And when it comes to us going to earth, I'm going to protect everyone with everything I've got, you especially."

"Same here Justin. Same here." Justin just smiled at her warmly as they walked along arm in arm in the warm downtown sunset. Bellforest was truly a beautiful city to him now, especially during the right time of night and at sunset. This was his home now. Hilda, Matthieu, everyone on the gekko were his life now. And Maeter, the girl he ran into and knocked over accidentally in Alcoa city and for some reason instantly fell in love with now had his heart wrapped around her finger. He didn't mind at all though. It was perfect for him. This was the girl for him without any doubt.

"Hey, Justin?"

"Yes Maeter?"

"I love you with all my heart. I promise to always be at your side, no matter what happens."

"I love you too Maeter." he replied softly with a gentle kiss. "Now let's head home. It's getting around dinnertime and I'm sure your parents are wondering when you're coming home."

"Not yet. I want to walk a little bit farther with you."

"That's fine." Maeter then held onto his arm gently, rested her head on his shoulder, and they walked along in blissful ignorance of the adventure that stood in front of them.