48 – New Crewmember
Trance stood in front of Dylan and obviously tried to avoid his questioning look. She somehow felt as if she'd been cornered and confusion was clearly written in her face. She knew the captain of the Andromeda for quite a long time now and she knew exactly that he called her because he must have had some important reason to do so and why he asked her that question. She still heard his words in her mind while she tried to figure out a way of answering, or better even, of avoiding giving him a straight answer. However, the look in his eyes made her completely clear, that this time he wouldn't satisfy himself with evasive maneuver which she usually used not to give him a straight answer. After all, in the past she had given him enough information to enable him to make his own conclusions. But what he didn't know was, how close to the truth he was with his assumptions. She sighed and looked at him seriously: "Dylan, you know, that I'm not allowed to give you any answer to that question." She let her words hanging in the air and hoped he would perhaps give in and accept the fact, that he wouldn't get any answer.
But Dylan didn't even think of giving in or letting her get away with few unimportant words and repeated his question again: "Trance, you should finally tell me, if everything what happened had been planed before by you and your people."
Trance turned her gaze to the window and after short pause she answered hesitantly: "Well... yes, Dylan, it had been planed approximately this way from the beginning on."
"And what is my role in this plan? What is Rommie's part? Are we just toys in your hands, parts of your plan? Are we nothing more than just puppets, which dance exactly the way you want them to?" He didn't like the idea that he and Rommie could have been just marionettes. No, he didn't like this idea a bit. He has always been proud to be the master of his own future and sudden recognition, that he handled just the way some unknown force forced him to do made his annoyance even stronger. He wasn't really mad at Trance, although she obviously also directed his handling, or at least took her part in this process. He was more worried about it, confused and irritated.
Now Trance looked at him firmly: "Dylan, you shouldn't see it that way. Yes, in a way both of you were just players in a very important game. And still are. But you both... you have been chosen. Both of you are determined to finally bring the balance between good and bad into this universe. By bringing someone to this world, someone, who will fulfill this task. You will get a son, that's what I know. But he won't be alone, he will have an ally, who will help him in fulfilling of his destiny."
Now it was Dylan's turn to glare at her unbelievingly. Not only that Trance now finally directly said, he would get a son, no, she also revealed him that there was someone else, someone who will ally with his unborn son in the future. "I doubt that you will answer me this question, but I have to ask: Who is this person? Who will ally with the son, whom, according to your words we will get?" Confusion was clearly visible in his face.
Again they both kept silent for a moment, before Trance decided to play with half opened cards this time. "It's a person, about whose existence you have already been informed. But you were left in belief, this person wouldn't live any more. But it is alive. This person lives, well guarded and we are taking care, that nothing could possibly happen to it. We guard it, without anyone else knowing or noticing it."
Dylan looked at her even more confused than before and ran his hand through the hair, unsure if he should ask further or wait for Trance to finally decide to tell him the whole truth. Well, whole truth was something, he didn't really expect from Trance, he knew her too good by now. He knew that she would tell him exactly as much as she´d preceive as acceptable. So he just looked at her and waited.
Trance saw his expression and smiled faintly: "You don't know this person directly, just from information, you've got from someone else. It's Tamerlane, son of Tyr Anasazi and Freya. He is this second person."
This time Dylan definitely didn't know how to react and he just stared at Trance like in trance. After a long pause he finally managed to speak with insecure voice: "Trance, what have you just said? Tamerlane? But... Tyr told me, he was dead. OK, I didn't really believe him, but nevertheless. I considered many possibilities, but this one...?"
They just looked at each other in silence and no one was willing or able to say anything. Trance, because she knew that Dylan had to overcome this shock first and Dylan, because he was really so shocked that he couldn't sort out a single comprehensive thought. The silence laid heavy on them and it seemed like a wall, preventing them from speaking. The name which has been said, hung in the air like Damocles' sword and Dylan got the feeling, that each word which would now be spoken, could destroy the future, which he pictured to himself, with one single punch. He still wasn't able to speak. A Nietzschean? A Nietzschean should bring the peace to the universe, together with his son? It was exactly the Nietzscheans, who never brought peace to the universe! All they brought was destruction, darkness and chaos. And now..... a Nietzschean? Again and again this word sounded in his sub consciousness, again and again the pictures of Hephaistos returned to his mind. The species, which had caused the fall of the Commonwealth, should now be responsible for restoration of peace and unity of the universe! What a wicked sense of humour this universe has.
Trance felt Dylan inner battle and nodded softly: "Yes Dylan, Tamerlane will, together with your son, steer the universe in the right direction again. He is the genetic reincarnation of Drago Musevini. But I guess, you knew that all along. You shouldn't allow your feelings, your distrust against the Nietzscheans guide you. You should look at it logically. Only he, the new Messiah of the Nietzscheans, will be able to reunite this species and start a new, this time positive alliance with the Commonwealth."
"But.... how can a single person reunite all the prides? Not only for one battle, for one war. Reunite them in peace. I find it extremely hard to believe. I know the Nietzscheans too good to gain hopes for such an outcome."
"You should believe me nevertheless. It will be so! There will be a new power, power, which will unite the Nietzscheans. Why, in God's name do you think, was this change of leadership in Drago-Kazov fleet necessary? It's only a part of the plan. You have probably recognized, that Konregens isn't a typical Dragan. He should take care, that everything will be going into right direction. He cannot outgrow himself, but he can lay a fundamental stone for this future to become possible. Much is going to happen, before everything turns into right direction, but the start has been made to achieve it." Trance's voice was calm and comforting. Her words found their way to Dylan's mind and showed him, that this change, which is going to happen, was perhaps really possible.
Dylan shook his head unbelievingly and answered: "You´ll have to forgive me, but I still can't make friends with this thought. I need time to really comprehend what youßve told me and clear up my thoughts. Many of these things, which I´ve just heard from you, conflict with my knowledge and it's almost impossible for me to understand it." He went to the window and looked through it. Then he spoke again, but this time ironical sub note in his voice was clearly noticeable: "And what are we supposed to do now, Trance? Do you have any answers to that too?"
Trance went over to him and shook her head slightly: "No, Dylan, I have no answer to this question. You´ll have to find a way alone. But I'm sure, that you, together with Rommie, will find the right way, the correct answer. I will help you the best I can, but how to do it... no, that's something I don't know."
Dylan threw her a look and smiled faintly: "I should have expected such an answer. If you'd excuse me now.... I have some things to think over:" He got the feeling, that Trance knew much more than she had told him, or was willing to tell him.
Trance nodded with a smile and left the room. She left behind completely confused Dylan, who sank deep in his thoughts. She knew she just gave him a heavy burden and he'd have to cope with it alone. She couldn't help him in this matter. But there was someone who could. She went to find Rommie and send her to Dylan. He needed her right now. And she knew instinctively that Rommie would find a way to help him carry this weight.
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Andromeda floated peacefully over Sinti. The majority of the crew went planetside, only Andy, Harper and Tyr were left on board. For the latter two, Dylan's decision, to leave them on Andromeda, was in fact a relief and they really didn't care whatever was at this moment going on down on the planet. Well, not exactly! Tyr couldn't get rid of the feeling, that something very important would change shortly, something, what he really won't like. He agreed, that Brigens did an excellent job in defending Sinti, but he couldn't really make friends with the thought, that he might soon meet this man on Andromeda. Sure, he would accept him as additional pair of hands, but... He didn't like Beka's attitude and her behavior towards Brigens. The idea, Beka would feel more than just friendship for this man didn't let his mind free. And this was one thought he really didn't appreciate. Exactly in the moment as he believed, he could settle every dispute he ever had with Beka, this man appeared and interfered with their relationship. As a matter of fact, he was extremely irritated. He sincerely hoped to be able to come closer to Beka now and suddenly everything seemed to change thoroughly. He strolled along the corridors of Andromeda with no particular goal where he wanted to come. He had no lust to go into gym to work-out, so he decided to go back into his quarters and perhaps read a good book. Perhaps this would help divert his thoughts from Beka. But he was now even ready to admit, that he was at least a bit jealous of Brigens. Finally, he thought to himself that he's really stupid and shook his head. He shouldn't have such thoughts right now, He should wait and see how the things will develop in the next days and weeks. Finally, there was still a small chance, that Dylan won't accept Brigens as a new crew member. But this chance was really very small and unbelievable. Dylan was also interested to get an additional pair of hands and Tyr couldn't blame him for that.
Andy and Harper were in a machine shop and tried to figure out some improvements for Andromeda's sensors. Harper has had many crazy ideas and Andy really didn't want to leave him alone while he was trying to realize these ideas, alone without her supervision. He had produced some unpleasant situations in the past with his ambition and haste and she wanted to make sure, there wouldn't be another system crash down this time. Additionally, she also had to supervise the Perseids, who enthusiastically made themselves to finish the repairs and upgrades on Andromeda. She sighed and thought to herself, that this was almost too much, even for her: supervise Harper and additionally not allow too much to the army of scientific crazy Perseids. True, they were genies, but nevertheless.... There were so many possibilities something could go wrong!
"What's wrong, sugar babe?" Asked Harper cheerfully as he heard her sigh. "Uncle Harper will manage everything, no fear, darling!"
"An that's exactly what I'm afraid of, Seamus! Every time when you are so determined and hard-working, I have to expect the worst." Answered Andy grinning.
"Hey, you didn't really mean that right? Who made you, huh? And who did up till now always everything right? HARPER!" he looked at her and as he saw her doubtful look, he felt a bit overrun and said in a small voice: "Well, almost always."
„Again. This ‚almost' is exactly that what frightens me. Yes, you're really good, but sometimes too hasty. And that's why I'm here now. I cannot leave you alone, with this horde of Perseids on board. You and them together are worse than a nova bomb. When I fire a nova bomb, I at least know what I can expect, but considering you...." Andy still grinned.
„OK, I admit that I miscalculate myself from time to time. But I have always corrected my mistakes, right?"Harper looked at Andy who stood there and tried to look hard almost pleadingly.
She nodded and answered: „As a matter of fact, you have. But it's much better not even tio allow you to come into the situation where you'd have to correct your own mistakes. We should better make it correctly from the beginning on."
Andromeda's hologram formed in front of them and she grinned at Harper: „Harper, you should better stay calm and listen to Andy. I really wouldn't like to be in a position to require more interventions to correct your ‚upgrades'. Just be careful!"
Insulted, Harper looked from Andy to Andromeda: „Well, ladies, just make fun over me. But you couldn't function so well without me. And that's the fact!"He demonstratively turned away from both of them and missed, how Andy winked to Andromeda, at which she grinned and disappeared while slightly shaking her head. Andy laid her hand comfortingly on Harper's shoulder and said softly: „We both very much appreciate all you're doing for us, Seamus. But sometimes we have to tease you a bit. Just that you know, we like you very much."
Harper turned to Andy grinning again and gave her a kiss on her cheek: „I know that my queen! And I really don't take any offence."He turned around again to do his job. So he didn't see, how Andy slightly blushed after he kissed her and laid her hand confused on the place, where his lips touched her cheek, before she pulled herself together again and also turned her attention to her duties.
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"Allow me to thank you again for your help!" bowed the president of Sinti in front of Dylan politely and friendly and shook his hand enthusiastically. "Your crew really helped us immensely and it is only understandable, that we are helping you the best we can. You just say what you need and we will see that we also realize it."
Dylan smiled at the president: "Mr. President, it has bin really an honor to me. It was only natural, that we helped your planet. Considering our needs, your people have already regulated everything with my crew and I am really thankful for your help. If you would now excuse my wife and me, we have still some things to finish. However, I would like to thank you again for your hospitality and friendliness." He shook president's hand and bowed slightly, before he left the office together with Rommie.
As they were out on the corridor, he sighed relieved and Rommie looked at him smiling: "You have managed to survive it after all! I was already afraid you wouldn't be able to hide how bored you in fact were any more."
Dylan smiled at her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders: "You know me all too good Rommie! I really wouldn't be able to play the interested guest any longer. But now we should prepare ourselves to our meeting with Brigens. When should we meet him?"
"Beka said, he would be arriving in ten minutes. We should hurry up a bit to be there on time. I have reserved a room, so that we will be able to talk undisturbed. Yes, these Perseids are really thankful and they cannot reject us any wish right now," smiled Rommie and stepped in front of Dylan. She looked into his eyes and whispered: "Well, we are not in such a hurry after all." She stretched up to him and kissed him. Dylan responded to her kiss and gently pressed her to his body. Then he freed himself from her hug and whispered a bit embarrassed: "What if someone sees us? Don't you think that we are behaving inappropriate?"
"No, I don't think so!" Answered Rommie grinning and kissed him again.
Few minutes later they actually arrived to the room, where they were supposed to meet Brigens. They sat on the sofa and waited for Brigens to come. Not even a minute later, the door opened again and Beka entered the room, together with Brigens. She smiled satisfied and looked at Rommie and Dylan: "Well, friends, this is Mr. Brigens. Rufus, may I present: Dylan Hunt, my captain and Rommie, his wife."
Dylan raised his eyebrow in surprise. He didn't miss that Beka already called Brigens per his first name. It was obvious, that there was something between the two of them. But he hid his surprise, stood up and shook Brigens's hand. „I'm glad to have met you. Beka talked about you quite a lot."
Brigens accepted Dylan's hand and answered: „It's an honor for me to shake your hand, Captain.! Then he turned to Rommie, who in the meantime also stood up and offered him her hand. „And you are his wife? Enchante!"He looked at Rommie admiringly. Should he have had any doubts before, while he didn't know what Rommie really was, he had to admit to himself now, that she was really a beautiful woman. He noticed her belly, counted two and two together and now he definitely believed that she was no avatar. His eyes hugged her and he had to admit to himself, that the look in her dark eyes made him a bit insecure. There was this beautiful woman, standing in front of him and all he could do was think, how Dylan must call himself happy, to be married to such a beauty.
„I'm glad to have met you too, Mr. Brigens,"answered Rommie friendly, but a bit cold. She felt his admiration and it made her feel a bit uncomfortable as she looked into his eyes. She hoped that Dylan wouldn't notice it, but she was wrong. Dylan noticed very well, how Brigens looked at her and instantly he became even more cautious. He didn't know a lot about this man, but he didn't exactly like the way, he was looking at his wife. Nonetheless, he decided to hear him out before making any decisions and conclusions. Beka saw too, how Brigens looked at Rommie and a slight shadow on her face revealed that she didn't appreciate the way he was looking at Rommie either.
Finally Brigens sat in a chair, across Dylan, who also took his place again. As also Rommie seated herself, Dylan demonstratively laid his arm around her shoulders, to show Brigens unmistakably, yet subtle, where his place was and who was Rommie's partner. Then he said: „Beka, would you like to attend this meeting too or do you have some other duties?"
„As a matter of fact I was thinking of..."started Beka and made a step towards them. She wanted to say, that she really didn't have anything else to do at the moment, but Dylan's voice and his slightly raised eyebrow revealed her, that he actually didn't want her to be present at this talk. She instantly changed her intentions and continued, „... well..... that there are some things which have to be taken care of. I have to keep an eye on Perseids, so that the deliveries to Andromeda will be realized as agreed. I should better convince myself that everything is OK. So... I'll see you later." She ran her hand through her hair a bit embarrassed, threw Dylan an irritated look and left the room.
As they were left alone, Dylan turned to Brigens, „Well, Mr. Brigens. I have heard, that you expressed your interest to join my crew. Could you tell me, what was the reason for such a decision?" He looked at Brigens questioningly without taking his arm from Rommie's shoulders.
Brigens thought for a second and started, „It's actually really simple. You see, I'm a man, who cannot stay on one place for a very long time. Earlier I was a captain of a war ship myself and I accepted this job with the Perseids only because it was a real challenge to me. This species is really very peaceful and every form of violence frightens them, even the passive one. I was sure, that I can assist the Perseids substantially in upgrading of their defense system and making it really effective. I'm quite proud to have succeeded in it, what Beka already found out, as our planetary defense could take it up with the Dragans. My job here is done and would really like to fly out into the space again. There lies the fulfillment of my wishes and dreams. And if you would allow me to serve under you on the Andromeda, it would definitely mean the fulfillment of my dreams. I believe that my experiences in the space, but also those, which I gained here with the Perseids, could be useful for you too. And this way I could also do something useful for the universe, not just for one planet. Your ideals are the same as mine and I have carefully traced your deeds. What you have achieved gives me hope, that there really is a chance for better future and I'd be stupid if I wouldn't want to be a part of it and help building this future. Therefore I really hope that you'll give me the chance, to prove myself by your side. Concerning my career up till now, I have taken myself a liberty to make a short curriculum vitae of what I've done and achieved in the past." He draw a flexi from his pocket and gave it to Dylan. Dylan took it interested and began to read. Rommie snuggled closely to him and read too.
After few minutes of silence, they looked in each others eyes and Rommie nodded approvingly. There was not many more information on the flexi as Dylan already knew. Finally, Andromeda already checked Brigens and gathered all information that was available concerning him. Dylan turned again to Brigens and said: "As I see have you made quite an impressive career, Mr. Brigens. Nowadays it's really difficult to find people with such experience as you have. I can only confirm, that you were enrichment for our crew. As far as I know no one of them would object you, even Andromeda not." He grinned at this words and remembered the discussion he had with Andromeda concerning this matter. She told him in her analytical and systematic way everything she could fnd about this man and confirmed, that he could be very useful and also recommended that he should be allowed to join the crew. Dylan was a bit irritated by the way, how Brigens looked at Rommie as he first laid eyes on her, but on the other hand he knew how Rommie affected the men. He couldn't really be angry with him for looking his wife the way he did and didn't expect any troubles or tensions concerning Rommie. He sank in his thoughts for a second and then looked at Brigens: "Mr. Brigens, I'm happy to welcome you as a new crewmember of Andromeda." Then he stood up and stretched his hand towards Brigens. He also stood up and his face virtually shone. He took Dylan's hand enthusiastic and squeezed it firmly: "You have just made a happy man out of me, Captain!"
Dylan smiled: "OK, it seems that we have reached an agreement, you just have to regulate everything with the Perseids. I really don't need any problems with them, because I'd so to say, kidnap one of their most important men. Concerning your duties on board... we will discuss this matter later on Andromeda."
Brigens nodded: "Well, I have already settled almost everything with the Perseids. They know that I want to go and don't oppose my wish. But, everything should be made officially and according to the rules, and I'll have to regulate some questions with my successor, so Sinti will be protected the best it can be."
Dylan nodded and added: "However, there is still one thing that has to be clarified and it concerns my wife."
Brigens looked at Dylan a bit confused. In this moment he didn't exactly know what Dylan was up to.
As Dylan saw his confused look, he grinned slightly: "Beka told me that you were a bit shocked as you thought that I might have been married to an AI. Do you have anything against the AI's Mr. Brigens?"
Brigens now remembered his reaction and blushed slightly: "No, nothing... it's just... I was a bit surprised. I knew that the name of Andromeda's Avatar was Rommie and have thought..." he broke off and looked embarrassed at the floor. Then he gathered his thoughts again and looked again in Dylan's eyes: "But as I see, I was mistaken."
Dylan nodded: "Sure! But, just to make it clear from the beginning on: Rommie was earlier really Andromeda's avatar, that much is true. But then has her personality been transferred into this, completely biological body by some alien species. She's now as human as you or I. Not even to mention the fact that even earlier she was only physically speaking an artificial life form, while her personality never let any doubts whether she was an individual and completely human person. And as you can see, there are already hard evidences, that she's a human." He sank his look and let it rest on Rommie's belly, what caused Brigens blush even more. Rommie followed Dylan's monologue a bit irritated and now she turned to Brigens too: "I really don't want to be impolite, but I'd really want to know what caused your irritation at the thought I were an AI?"
Now Brigens really didn't know any more where to look and he stuttered: "You know, Mrs. Hunt... I find it really hard to excuse my reactions. But I have been raised in belief, that AI's shouldn't be seen as real persons. Ever since my childhood I have been told that they are artificial life forms, possessing no ego, that they are only made to serve humans. I can only hope that you will understand me and forgive me."
Rommie nodded not entirely convinced and answered: "Well, Mr. Brigens. You should change your point of view as fast as you can! AI's are real persons too, have their ego, feelings and can be distinguished from humans only by the fact that they have been artificially created. On Andromeda you will have to cope with three different life forms of an AI, who do in a sense represent one entity, but are also very different and are in fact each their own personality. You have already met Andy, the rest two incorporations of Andromeda will be presented to you shortly. If you want to live with us, you'll have to learn to look at the AI's as complete, equal individuals. You can believe me, I have experienced both sides."
All Brigens could do was a weak nod and he still preferred to look at the floor. Rommie's words found their way into his mind and he realized he had been handling wrong. He finally managed to raise his eyes and offered her his hand: "Can you forgive me, Mrs. Hunt? It really wasn't my intention to hurt someone or to look at them as lesser person."
Rommie looked into his eyes and saw, that he really meant what he said, so she smiled a bit and took his hand: "Sure I can forgive you. You didn't really make anything wrong. And... welcome aboard!"
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As Dylan and Rommie returned to Andromeda, they both immediately headed for the command. Dylan had some very important things to regulate and he wanted to finish them as fast as possible. And he wanted to be undisturbed at doing it. As he entered the command together with Rommie, he requested: "Andromeda! I have to talk to Charlemagne Bolivar . Call him and then activate private mode in the command and lock the doors."
"I'm establishing connection," answered Andromeda and after few moments she confirmed: "Connection established. Activating private mode." Her picture disappeared from the monitor and was replaced by Charlemagne's face. As he saw Dylan, he smiled ironically: "Captain Hunt! What an honor to get a call from you. And as I see, you are not alone! You also have your avatar at your side. Actually I'd expect you to be accompanied by Miss Valentine after she represented you so good." In this moment his eyes noticed Rommie's swollen belly and they widened uncontrolled. This was a surprise even for cool Charlemagne Bolivar. He really couldn't explain to himself, why would Andromeda's avatar have such a swollen belly. He looked unbelievably at Rommie and didn't succeed immediately to regain his self-control.
Dylan noticed his confusion and grinned: "My dear Charlemagne, I see that the look of my wife brought you slightly out of control. Oh, my, I've really forgotten it! You don't even know that Rommie is now human and married to me. How could I have been so impolite and have not immediately told you, that the circumstances changed. How stupid of me! Well, I ask you for your understanding."
In the meantime Charlemagne managed to regain self-control and grinned ironically once again. "This universe really has a twisted sense of humor. It makes a woman out of a machine and even gives her the gift of pregnancy. I believe I'm not wrong when I assume that you are soon to become a father, my respected captain?"
"No, archduke, you are not mistaken. In few months I'll become father. But what concerns the sense of humor – I see it differently. But in one point you are somehow right. This universe is really strange. When I think that you started a war with Drago-Kazov.... and even an open battle.." Dylan ironically smiled at Charlemagne's picture.
"Oh, as I see, Miss Valentine managed to describe you the happenings at Sinti really detailed. I assume she also described in detail what she did with your ship. Well, there is a time when all open accounts have to be settled, and this time I have validated my request against the Dragans," answered Charlemagne with same voice as before. He didn't know how much Dylan knew, but decided not to say a word about the failed battle at Enga's Redoubt.
"But not exactly very successful as I've been informed," Dylan didn't want to let Charlemagne get away with it and still grinned. "Why do I have a feeling, that your plans didn't look exactly as they were finally turned out?"
As he answered, Charlemagne's face didn't reveal anything. "How would you possible know what we were up to? Perhaps it was only a part of my plan."
"Well, dear Charlemagne," answered Dylan stressed ironically, "We are both no children any more and should also talk like adults. I know that you plan partially failed and you know that I am informed accordingly. So we should better talk openly. I have some information which is important to you and to me. And it concerns the Drago-Kazov."
"And what should be with them?" Asked Charlemagne and looked at Dylan with fake confused eyes, without loosing his ironical smile.
"I hope you won't try to convince me, that you have no information about a change in the pride's leadership. I'd really be surprised if you wouldn't know that. I had a chance to talk to the new alpha a few days ago. Konregens, I guess you have heard of him. You did fought with him at Sinti."
For a short while, Charlemagne's face showed something like a trace of surprise, but he answered completely controlled, just a tiny bit too quick: "Well, it has been known for a while. And what am I supposed to do with your information?"
"I just wanted to let you know, that I agreed with him, to maintain peace between us, and I'm going to hold on to this agreement. You shouldn't expect to have an ally in me in your war against Drago-Kazov. I'd also like to advise you, not to enter any hostilities with them. As far as I know, the Dragans are still very powerful and if I were you, I wouldn't risk an attack." Dylan spoke very seriously and no irony could be traced in his voice.
For a second Charlemagne looked thoughtful from the screen before he answered: "Captain, respectfully, I don't think that our relation to Drago-Kazov is any of your concern. We are truly capable of looking after ourselves, what can't be said about some other present persons." He grinned at Dylan to see if his words have made an impact on Dylan and was slightly disappointed as Dylan didn't show any visible reaction and still looked seriously at him. So he continued: "Actually I have better information concerning Drago-Kazov as you, therefore I'd like to warn you too. It is highly possible that in a very short time a war between Nietzschean prides will break out. Or do you perhaps believe, that the Dragans will do nothing after their defeat at Sinti? I'm convinced, they will attack sooner or later. But we are prepared for this attack. And not to forget – according to Commonwealth Charta, we are allies and you have to assist us in such a case." Charlemagne grinned again malicious and waited for Dylan's reaction.
Dylan didn't let any emotion be seen on his face and answered cool: "Correct Charlemagne. But only in case that you are under attack! Should you, however, start a war, you will have to forget us and our help. Besides... I have heard, that you really generously refrained from an attack at Andromeda at Sinti. This is not the way I see our alliance. However... I have warned you and we should leave it at this."
Still ironically grinning Charlemagne nodded slightly: "You have right captain. Concerning your warning.... accepted and noted. Is there anything else?"
Dylan shook his head: "No, that was all I had to tell you."
Charlemagne nodded: "Well, in that case... it's been really nice to talk to you. But I have more important tasks now. I'm sure, we'll be hearing from each other sometime." His face vanished from the screen.
Dylan remained looking at the screen, which now showed a tactical map of Sinti, for some moments and then turned to Rommie: "What do you think? Have we achieved our goal?"
Rommie nodded with serious expression on her beautiful face and answered: "I believe he'll do exactly what we expect him to do. The Dragans really underestimate him and that's his biggest advantage."
Dylan smiled slightly and called: "Andromeda! Deactivate private mode!"
Andromeda's hologram built itself in front of him and answered: "Deactivated." Then she looked at him and asked: "Did everything work out according to the plan?"
Dylan nodded: "Exactly according to the plan Andromeda. And now... you should prepare yourself for a reinforcement to your crew. I've regulated everything with Brigens so that he will come aboard shortly. Take care, that there will be quarters prepared for him. After he's aboard, I'll discuss with him his future assignments."
"Will be done captain. Is there anything else you want?"
"No, nothing else. We will be in our quarters. If it should be necessary, you know where to find us." Answered Dylan and left the command, accompanied by Rommie.
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As they entered their quarters, Rommie sat herself on a sofa and looked at Dylan, who somehow confused remain standing at the table and obviously couldn't decide upon something. After few moments she asked: "Is there anything else that's bothering you Dylan?"
Dylan nodded and looked at her lovingly: "I'm not sure how this thing with Brigens will evolve. I like him, he has a good background and also his experience is very good. But I'm still a bit irritated. The way he was looking at you..."
Rommie smiled tenderly and sighed: "So that's what's bothering you. Dylan, you're jealous! You should have known by now that I love only you. I'm sure he'll behave himself. You really have no reason to be jealous." With her hand she showed him, he should sit beside her and he followed her invitation. As he was sitting next to her, she put her hands on his and looked into his eyes: "Dylan, if I'd react jealously each time you amused yourself with some women, I couldn't even function properly, I couldn't continue working with you any more. And I didn't even know back then if you had any feelings for me or not. But now you know what's between us and you know I'd never, never betray you. So, please, don't worry. Everything will work out good, you'll see. Brigens is a good man. Yes, he has some prejudices against the AI's, but he'll surely work hard to look at the relations as we do. Don't forget, that you're also biased against the Nietzscheans. And I can understand you."
Dylan smiled back: "Actually I have no reservations. And I trust you absolutely." He made a little pause and softly caressed Rommie's belly.
Suddenly Rommie's eyes flew wide and she tensed instantly. Dylan looked at her concerned and asked hastily: "What's wrong Rommie?"
Rommie laid her hand on her belly and looked a bit confused into Dylan's eyes. But gradually the tension disappeared from her face and she smiled at Dylan happily: "I've just felt how the baby moved! Dylan, our baby has moved!" Her eyes sparkled and she looked at him happier than ever.
Also Dylan's face brightened in a second and he pressed his hand firmer on Rommie's belly: "Really? Are you sure?"
Rommie nodded vigorously and answered: "Yes, sure I'm sure! It really moved! Dylan, I'm so happy!" Her face shone like a sun against Dylan and in this very moment she looked so unbelievable beautiful like never before.
Dylan bowed to her and kissed her on her lips. Then he hugged her close: "Rommie, in this moment I'm the happiest man in the universe."
They remained silent for few minutes, closely hugged and simply enjoyed this moment of happiness. The moment that could never repeat itself. The moment, as their first baby gave its first signs of life. The magic of the moment wrapped them in its warmth and they wanted to stay this way as long as possible. They felt that no words were necessary, that they would just break the spell of the moment. Just the closeness, happiness, which fulfilled them both and flew like an invisible emotional river between their shores was important. Without any words they felt the love, passion and affection for this little being which now let them knew that it lived. Their baby! At this thought Dylan's eyes suddenly became wet and as he looked at Rommie he saw that she was, exactly like he, at the edge of tears. Tears of happiness. They wanted this moment to last forever, although they exactly knew there will be dark hours coming upon them in the future. But now and here.... "I love you!" whispered Dylan and his eyes sank in Rommie's deep dark eyes. No fear, no doubt, only pure happiness could be seen in them.
Suddenly Andromeda's voice broke the silence: "Dylan, Brigens has just arrived. Should I direct him into his quarters?"
Dylan found it hard to answer politely: "Yes, Andromeda, do it. After that he should come into command. Inform everyone to gather in the command in ten minutes."
Andromeda felt that she broke in at very false time and answered with a voice, that perhaps expressed a trace of guilt: "It'll be done Dylan."
Dylan sighed still looking into Rommie's eyes: "The reality calls, dearest."
Rommie nodded and also sighed: "What can we possibly do against it? But we still have our whole lives in front of us to be happy. At least I hope so."
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As Brigens left his quarters few minutes later, he stopped outside the door and looked slightly confused to the left and to the right. He had in fact no idea where the command was and wished, he'd get some help. And as if he were appointed with this task, Rev rounded the corner. In first moment Brigens's eyes widened as he saw a Magog, but then he remembered, that he was also a member of Andromeda crew and he relaxed. He looked at him a bit embarrassed and asked: "Sorry, Sir. Could you please tell me where do I have to go to come to the command. I fell a bit lost on this huge ship. Oh... excuse me...my name is Rufus Brigens and I'm the new crewmember."
Rev came to him smiling and stopped in front of him. He bowed slightly and answered: "I know who you are, Mr. Brigens. If you allow me... I'm Reverend Bohemial, or shortly, Rev. I'm glad to greet you aboard Andromeda and if you'd follow me: This is the way to the command", and he showed in the direction in which he was going too.
Brigens nodded thankfully and they went together in the direction of the command. For a few moments there was silence between them and then Brigens decided to ask the unavoidable question: "May I ask you something, Rev? How is it possible, that a Magog works together with humans? Until now I have unfortunately had only completely different experiences with your species."
Rev nodded smiling: "I'm a monk. A wayist monk. And I really regret everything that my species had made to the humans, Nietzscheans and all other species. I was lucky to find my way. A way, leading me into positive direction. The divine showed me this way and I'm deeply thankful for it. I can only hope, that I can do something good with my deeds. That I can perhaps soothe a pain a bit, a pain that my species caused to the others."
Brigens didn't exactly know what to answer to this so he kept silent until they reached the command. There they saw, that the complete crew was already present. They all looked at Brigens friendly, only Tyr's look seemed different, more reserved, perhaps even opposing. But Brigens didn't worry much about him. He knew the Nietzscheans and from Beka's words, he also knew what he had to expect from Tyr's side. He nodded at them and then looked at Dylan who was at a console, together with Rommie.
Dylan smiled at him and showed him with his hand, he should come closer. As he stopped in front of the captain, Dylan said: "I'm pleased to call you welcome on the Andromeda once again." Then he introduced the crewmembers and as he was through with it, he turned to Brigens again: "I have thought about your possible position on Andromeda. You know, that we have to operate her with eight people, me included, instead of the normal crew of over 4000 people. The position of my first officer is already occupied by Beka so I thought that you could be assigned to the position of my second officer. But with crew so small as ours, the tasks are not rigidly assigned and everyone has to do some other tasks if necessary. It is a bit demanding, but therefore very dynamic. If you are looking for new challenges, then you are here in the right place."
Brigens nodded and answered: "I'm really happy to be on Andromeda and I don't have any reservations against hard work. Exactly this dynamics, these challenges are what I've always been looking for. My work on Sinti was interesting and important, but it couldn't fulfill me. I can only hope to be able to meet your expectations. You can rest assured that I'll do my best."
"I have no doubts concerning that," answered Dylan and asked: "Have you regulated everything with the Sinti government? Are there no more obstacles left?"
Brigens shook his head: "No, everything has been solved correctly. We parted in peace and understanding and I'm very grateful to you, that you didn't make it hard on me to open this new chapter of my life."
Dylan nodded and asked: "Andromeda! Are all repairs and upgrades finished?"
"Yes Dylan, everything is finished and also all supplies have been stored. We can start any time now." Answered Andy instead of Andromeda and got an irritated look from the hologram which formed in this moment. Andy grinned and nodded calming to the hologram.
"OK! Please, call the Sinti Government. We should formally say good-bye before we leave." Confirmed Dylan and looked at the hologram. Andromeda established the connection and the face of the president appeared on the screen. Dylan turned to look him directly in the eyes and said: "Mr. president, I'd like to thank for your generosity again. Unfortunately we have to leave now, there are new tasks waiting for us. But I'm sure we'll meet again sometime."
The president smiled and bowed a bit: "It has been a pleasure for me, Captain Hunt. And gratefulness is on our side. Whenever you will need help, you can always turn to us. Thank you again and have a safe journey." The face disappeared and Dylan turned to Beka: "Well, Miss Valentine? Shouldn't we be going somewhere?"
Beka grinned and grasped for the steering sticks. With a slight jerk the Andromeda left the orbit at Sinti and pointed herself against a slipstream portal, that has opened in the darkness of the universe.
After few minutes of navigating in the slipstream, Andromeda entered the normal space again. A planet with two moons could be seen and everything seemed completely peaceful. The crew watched this scene relaxed as suddenly the sirens broke the silence and Andromeda announced agitated: "A fleet is leaving the shadow of a second moon and it turns towards us. And they're firing at us!" In next moment the Andromeda already trembled and jerked under the rockets, exploding on her hull and everyone except Andy was sent to the floor. As Dylan stood up quickly, he immediately requested: "Andromeda! Damage report! And who, the hell are this guys whom you couldn't detect before? Battle stations!"
"No heavy damages yet! But they continue firing!" answered Andromeda. The lighting changed to blue and everyone was busy doing his job, just Brigens stood in the middle of the command, completely confused. He had looked for action, but he never believed, he'd find it so quickly.
"Return fire!" commanded Dylan. "Who are they, damn?"
"I don't know yet. Scanning." Answered the Andromeda and after few seconds in which she has been hit again and again by the hostile projectiles, she turned to Dylan with serious expression on her face: "Dylan, it's the Genites!"
TBC
