Disclaimer- Hard as I search through the multitude of shelves that hold my possessions, this isn't among them. So, I can only conclude that I don't own this. Hmmm... in the immortal words of Jack Skellington (also un- owned by me),
Oh well.


Hope 6

Before Bridger had time to show any reaction, a slow judder ran through seaQuest. A console near him sparked and he quickly pushed Lucas to the floor, using his body to cover him. Another rain of sparks fell over them and Lucas yelled as the console exploded. Bridger heard other people yelling as the shuddering continued and wanted to raise his head to see what was happening, but he was more concerned about Lucas, knowing his crew could handle anything that occurred.
Abruptly, the shuddering stooped. Bridger cautiously raised his head, checking that Lucas was all right. The teen nodded at the unspoken question, sitting up as he did. Satisfied that Lucas was ok, Bridger looked around the bridge, checking the damage and the state of his crew. From what he could see there was no major damage and no serious injuries. The only exception was the console that had exploded over him and Lucas.
Ford walked up to him, his calm demeanour still in place. He extended his hand to help Bridger up and did the same for Lucas.
Are you both all right?
Bridger nodded. When he didn't hear a response from Lucas he turned, and was surprised to see him rubbing his head.
Lucas? Are you all right? Lucas didn't seem to hear the question and the Captain's concern grew, twisting his stomach.

Taking a step forward as he spoke, Bridger gripped the boy's narrow shoulders n his hands and was relived to see his eyes regain their focus.
Sorry. I was just... um...
He was just speaking with me Captain. There is no need for concern.
Every one present turned to see who had spoken. In the corner off from the clam doors stood a figure that was familiar to everyone, but they couldn't remember why. Some of the crew, Ford included, reached, almost instinctively, for their guns. Lucas however recognised the visitor immediately and ran over to him, ignoring the reactions of the crew around him.
I knew you were coming back! Darwin told me this morning.
A promise made is a promise kept.
Bridger gasped.
That's what Darwin said to me last night.
Yes Captain. Darwin has known for the last two weeks we were approaching Earth again.
It seemed to take a while or these words to sink in. There was a silence and Lucas turned to Bridger.
That's I was going to tell you. He tried to say more but was stopped by Ford placing a gentle arm on his hand in a response to a sign from Bridger.
Come on Lucas. I think you should step back a little.
Please Lucas, interjected Bridger, just walk slowly over to me.
Lucas threw him a confused look, obviously wondering why their reactions were so different to his.
They don't remember Lucas. We erased their memories.
After a slow blink of understanding, Lucas walked over to Bridger.
I understand your reaction. If you will put down your weapons, I will explain my presence.
With a shock, Bridger realised that every gun had been drawn.
Gesturing to the crew to holster their weapons he stepped forward.
I'm more than willing to listen to your explanation. Commander, you have the conn.
Bridger's upheld hand silenced him.
Jonathan, do you find this... being', familiar?
Ford nodded, suddenly unable to answer.
So do I. I know that he isn't here to hurt us.
Thank you Captain. Is there a place on board where we three can talk?

The alien nodded.
If you have no objections I would ask that Lucas is allowed to accompany us.
I think you had better ask Lucas that, sid Bridger, although his face clearly showed he didn't like the idea.
Of course, answered Lucas, in response to the question. I was hoping you'd want me along.
Bridger noticed that the alien was paying close attention to Lucas that the boy seemed unaware of and unconsciously stepped closer to him.
Seeing Lucas standing in front of the alien had brought a flashback so quick he'd had time enough only to distinguish he had been feeling a sense of fear and anguish before it had faded. Yet he some how knew it was the aliens who had made him feel like that and that Lucas was connected to it.
For the second time in as many days, Bridger felt that he had no idea of what was happening.
It was a feeling he didn't like.


Oooohhhhhhhhhh. The aliens are finally back! Is anyone else confused by the fact that it has taken 6 chapters to get to the main point of the story? Or do you think it was just good writing technique? Let me know?
(yes I know, it's pathetic but my ego demands reviews and begging is soooo demeaning)
^___^