Book one

The traveler, and the lost colony from Earth

77  Points of interest

Page

1         a new beginning                                      93  ancestral ground

3         the drink drunk                                        94  meet the mayor

5         Station security                                   101  much to do

6         story buyers of generosity                115  Kitty cooks

7         metal mountain                                      117  lunch with the mayor

9         what's in a name                                    121  time to reflect

12     the sanitation police                                               123  what's up Doc?

13     nude shopping                                         125  the party and a power revealed

14     back to the drink drunk                    128  the day after

17     the old riddle                                           138  paper day

15     blue goo                                                       144  crystal clear,& plans

21     the mess                                                      148  doc gets a house

25     the device                                                                          158  night talk

29     a visit to med lab                                   159  drilled up, & pancakes

31     new gloves                                           161  morning treasure in the sand

32     too many drugs                                       164  practice makes juice

40     one hole then another                      170  no light flight

42     new arms for Owsee                                                174  trader Sam

44     Nibor gets a new suit                                              178  the upper room

46     a trip to the ice mines                                           181  Kitty’s return

49     swimming pool                                        188  lasagna?

52     back to the drink drunk, again     190  table upgrade

55     blue goo two                                            194  cave shrooms

60     backdoor                                                      201  it was just a nap

66     goodbye tech guy                                  205  up before Kitty

66     the offer                                                       207  preparations & a new plan

76     as the station dies                                 212  a rebels mission

79     a rude goodbye                                       214  is there anybody out there?

80     star gate bound                                      214  meet the Ranger

82     401-1=406                                                                          222  meet Kilroy

84     a stop on the way                                  226  the freedom ship stands ready

86     last stop before home                                            227  the Ranger and the RATS

87     Hyperspace tripping                        229  Mr. Gripper

91     dawn on a new world                                             232  the freedom ship’s at station E2

236      E1 & mercenary fun                                                237  gray play

238      trade for a liven ship                                              241  fish fry & smoke

243      not just another day                                               248  a gift

251      joy ride

Days start on pages 1, 12, 91, 101, 115, 128, 138, 159, 205, 338, 243.  11 days.

The traveler, book 1 back cover read.

A traveler, that is both a poet and writer, has worked his way towards the center of our galaxy; from planet to planet and ship to ship, for about 30 years.  Then he meets someone that promises great wealth; if he will go back with him to his planet, to teach it to read and write.  His fortunes have changed as our traveler gets everything he ever wanted, and more responsibility than he needed.  Our hero must protect the rights of the individuals; while saving his part of the galaxy from invasions, his world from attack, his new family from harm, his friends from danger, and himself from the numerous attempts on his life!  All while writing down what happens to him each day, so he can sell it to the people on this planet that treasure stories as the highest form of barter; which gives new meaning to the phrase, "I'll buy that."  The traveler starts with his first book of chronicles, with the 11 days from when he first meets the story collector.  A chapter of his life begins as we read what he writes, and he writes as we read.  Dramatic and full of action, our character will take you where you have never been, and you’ll want to be one of the characters that will put an ache in your side from laughing at the things they say.

If you can't imagine where else you rather be, then let this book do it for you.

R. Miller 8/4/09 –posted

BOOK ONE

“The Traveler,”

and the lost colony from Earth

By R Miller

Day One, Chapter 1

Entering the gravitational field, of this third moon of a planet whose name I did not know, I dropped my solar sails as I looked for the spaceport I was told was here.  Being low on maneuvering gases, and still no communications, I hoped I would spot the spaceport before the need to abort my mid-orbit.

Without more air, food and water I would not last another week and would have to call for rescue.  I had not expected my trip to of taken so long, or that I would have trouble calling the base.

After falling toward the moon for near to seven hours I spotted the base.  The low gravity made for an easy landing, and the partial atmosphere was good enough that I did not need to worry about my docking fittings being compatible.

Now comes the fun part; negotiating with the locals without a translation box.  I was near the center of the galaxy out here, not too many humans had been so far.

It had only been three weeks ago that I had to trade all that I had for this old solar sail ship; and enough food, water and air to get this far.  I

could've taken another job with the corporate mining company; but I wanted to move on, and they didn’t have anything in the direction I wanted to go.  I had heard there was work on this moon and thought I would give it a shot, or barter my skills as a pilot for a ride father on.

Besides, spending some time alone sounded like a good idea at the time.  But I didn't think it would take me three weeks to get here.

As I left my ship -- this nonthreatening looking fellow, unless you count his four arms with claws instead of fingers, greeted me.  He was only about five feet tall and wearing a silver cloak from head to toe, with a small black box hanging from a chain around his neck.

He said to me, "Owpa.”

I put my fingers to my lips, then to my ears and said, "No translator.”

He then tapped the box, hanging from the chain around his neck, and it turned yellow.  Then he put one claw to his mouth and then to his head, and extended it to me.  I took this as urging me to speak.

I said, "I am human, from Earth, and I speak English.”

The box translated it to his language and he said, "Owpa.”  The box translated it as, "Greetings.”

I replied, "Greetings.”  The box translated it as he, or it, stretched out all four claws to his side, started to click them very fast, and screamed something the box translated as, "We communicate!”

Lucky for me, as for moment I thought I had pissed him off.

Then he said, through the translation box, "I am guide, negotiator, trader in goods, services and stories.”

"Stories?”  I said.

"Yes, stories,” he said, "When I have enough I will go back to my home planet a rich man.  My race regards stories more valuable than anything else.  But let us talk about you.  Your ship is small.  You come from the first moon?"

I said, "No, I come from the fourth planet in the system.”

"The fourth planet,” he said, "that's a long way in such a small ship.  You need supplies I think .”

I said, "Yes, oxygen and hydrogen -- gas not liquid, water and food; if I use this ship to go anywhere else.”

He said, "You need more than that, I think.  From here you are going nowhere in such a small ship, but back where you came from.  And that is only if you get a tow.  The solar winds only blow one way me thinks.”

I said, "So what you're saying is that I'm pretty much done with this ship.”

He said, "I might be able to sell your ship, get you transport to another system.  Do you have any data crystals with stories on them you want to sell me?”

I said, "I'm sorry but I didn't bring any with me, but I remember a few stories if you would like to hear them.”

"You are a storyteller?” He said, "I have never met a true storyteller outside of my home planet.  Everyone here has facts, figures, places and dates, but none of them can tell a story -- it's just not in their nature.”

I said, "Oh, well you obviously never met an earthling before.  We tell stories all the time, we even write them down and sell them to each other.”

He said, "Writers, you are from a race of writers of stories?”

I said, "Yes, we write stories.”

He said, "And you can do this?”

I said, "Yes, don’t your people write your stories?”

He said, "No, we have learned of the concept of writing, from other races, but thought it was only for facts and figures.  I have never met a race that could write a story.”

I said, "Well I don't know about teaching you to write stories, but for a good meal and a couple of stiff drinks, I'll tell you some stories if you like.”

He said, "Yes, of course, I'll pay for your stories.  But I only have water at my place.  Alcohol and all other mood changing drugs are forbidding, everywhere on the station but at the Drink Drunk place.  You are not to do drugs or be under the influence anywhere else.  I will give you 100 credits for the promise of a story later.”

I said, "Okay, that's a deal.  I'll go to this Drink Drunk place and be back in a few hours to tell you some stories.”

After giving me a credit chip, he told me to follow the main corridor toward the sound of music.

As I walked inside the station I could hear some noise, not far off, that may pass for music in a place like this.  I saw two rather large things, in what may pass for uniforms, dragging someone, or thing, away.  I thought to myself, "This must be the Place!”

I was standing in front of the hatch, trying to figure out how to open it, when an orange skinned little man kicked a white ball of fur, the size of a cat, out the door yelling, "Baba fuja!”

I figured that meant stay out.  I slipped past him, and looked for a safe place to sit down.  The door closed behind me was a whoosh.  The little orange fellow reached up to tug on my sleeve, and pointed to a large tree root at this end of the bar; at least I think it was a tree root.

The fellow said, "Baba, Baba,” as he urged me to sit there.

It moved a bit at first; I was not quite sure if it was trying to make me more comfortable, or it.

The little fellow climbed over the next, well -- thing, which was sitting just a few feet away from me, and jumped behind the bar.  He slapped the edge of the bar and a yellow light came on; I figured that to be a translator.

He said, "Baba fodo," as he waved his hand over the yellow light.  So I said, "human, earthling, English.”

It started to blink on and off, so he hit the light until it stopped blinking.  He then waved his hand over it again, as to indicate I should try once more.  So I spoke to it again and this time it was working.

"Sorry for the delay," he said, "These translators are sometimes temperamental.  What will you have?"

I said, "I'm not sure, I've never been to this part of the galaxy before.  I don't want to poison myself, at least not too much.  The last place I was at had a drink called cartarering ale."

He said, "I don't have cartareing ale, but I do have something like it called Go Joe juice.  If you don't like it there will be no charge."

As he went for the bottle and started to pour it, the alien next to me said, through a translator, "I know what humans drink, their mother’s milk."

There was some laughter from a number of the others, but the bar keeper said, "Be careful Junka.  This one is from Earth, a heavy gravity planet.  He could rip your arm off if you insult him."

This made Junka sit up straight, and move a few inches away from me.

"It's all right," I said to Junka, "I'll even share a riddle with you.  How do you keep a stupid alien in suspense?"

He said, "I don't know, how?"

I said, "I'll tell you tomorrow."

Junka said, "okay, you will tell me tomorrow."

As soon as the translation went through, a bunch of aliens started laughing.  I took the glass of Go Joe juice and started to sip it at the joke sank into Junka’s head.

"Wait a minute, "Junka said, "I get it, stupid alien in suspense."

For the next three hours or so we drank and told jokes.  The Go Joe juice was cheap but had a good punch to it.

Then the bar keeper, whose name was totally unpronounceable, gave me a slap on translator patch before I left.  He said it only had power for about an hour, so not to use it unless in great need.

I was planning to go down the hall to a shop that I was told sold translators for only 20 credits.  But I thanked him anyway and put it in my pocket; little did I know how soon I would need it.

I left the Drink Drunk bar, and was walked past the security guards to get myself a mid-Galactic translator, when they grabbed me by my arm. Saying something, I could not understand, they started to walk or drag me toward the landing docks.  I didn't know what was going on, so I reached in my pocket and pulled out the translator patch.

Slapping it on the back of my hand, I said, "Where are you taking me, what have I done?"

The translation came back clear and simple, "Station security cannot be responsible for your actions, or your security, while you are drunk or under the influence of drugs.  You're being taken to your ship.  Please stay there until the drugs or alcohol has worn off."

I didn't want to piss these guys off, so I didn't ask any, what-if questions.  I just smiled and said, "Thank you for your courtesy."

When we got near my ship they let me go.  As I walked towards it one of the guards turned and said, "better change your clothes before the sanitation police get to you."

Sanitation police?  What, did I stink or something?  I had been in the bar for about three hours, sitting on God-knows-what.  Oh well, that would have to wait until I could get to a shop; and that would have to wait until I was no longer drunk.

Right now I was looking forward to that good meal I had been promised.  But how to find the story collector without leaving the docking area?  I did not want to piss-off the Station security.

I remembered what the bar keeper said, only about an hour of power to the slap-on.  So I figured I had better ask around the docks a bit before my slap on ran down.  I found someone loading cargo onto a ship, and asked if he knew how I could find the dock negotiator.

He slapped a badge on his shoulder, said something and something came back, then he said, "he will meet you at your ship in a little while."

I said thank you, and went back to my ship, feeling glad I got my message out before my slapper when dead.

It always feels strange when I go someplace new.  You never know what the limits are, or how safe you were going to be.

It was not long before the story buyer showed up with a friend.  A tall, sort of translucent looking thing with hundreds of legs; sort of an  eleven-foot Caterpillar.  He took one look at my ship and said, "you came from the fourth planet in that?"

I said yes, and he said, "Hum, humans are braver than I thought."  And with that, he left.

The story buyer said to me, "You got a slapper."

I said, "yeah, but it's almost out of power."

He said, "No problem, this methinks you need."

He reached into a bag on his side and pulled out a silver amulet, with a crystal circle in the center, on a gold chain.  Giving it to me he said, "This is too fancy for me to wear while I work.  You can wear it for the time you are here."

I put it on and thank him.  He then asked if I was ready to eat.  I said yes, and we started to walk to his place.  I told him I hoped it was not too far, as the sobriety guards had brought me to my ship less than an hour ago.  He said his ship was at the end of the docks, and reminded me that he said drinking and being drunk was allowed only in one place on the Station.

We passed ship after ship as we got closer to the mountain at the end of the dock; that seemed to have some kind of control tower at the top of it.  The last ship didn’t seem to be very big for someone that was the main negotiator on the docks, but then we passed it as well.  So I asked where his ship was and he raised his hands, or clause as it were, out in front of him and said, "This is it!"

We came to a door in the mountain, when it hit me, the mountain was metal.  The whole mountain was his ship, and it was bigger than half of the docks or most of the Station.  I no longer had any questions in my head about how rich this guy really was.  With a ship like this, he probably owned most of the Station.

"How long have you owned this ship?"  I asked.

He said, "Oh, about 30 of your years.  The creature that landed it here had a malfunction in its guidance controls to deal with, and the parts took about 20 years to get here.  Of course, he didn't want to wait that long, so I traded him my ship for his.  A real bargain for someone with my patients.  It's been repaired and ready to go for about 10 years now, I just need enough stories to go home with.  And if I'm right about you, story writer, I will be able to put my whole world at your feet."

I said, "Well, I don't think I’m that good."

He said, "If you can teach my race to write their stories down, you can be very rich.  And if you can make new stories, there will be nothing on my planet that will be denied to you.  How about a ship like this?  Teach my people to write, and I will be glad to give it to you myself."

I said, "It's going to take a bit for all this to sink in.  I came here with just about nothing, and now you're telling me I can have a whole world at my feet.  It's all just a bit much for me to believe right now."

He said, "Let's start with food, anything you want.  Better yet, let me have my ship prepare a feast, a dozen different delicacies from across the galaxy.  I have a fully automated kitchen system, nothing takes more than a few minutes."

He spoke to the ship through a patch on his shoulder and the floor began to move.  It took us to a great hall where hundreds could be seated for a meal.  He spoke to the computer again and dozens of trays, of different things, came out of the walls.  We ate and drank until we could eat and drink no more.

Then he took me on a grand tour of the ship, until we came to an observation deck with a great view of the Station.

He said, "I have been here more than 35 years.  I've learned many stories in all that time, but now it is time for a story from you.  Let me see what kind of a storyteller you are.  Make me feel as if I was there."

I said, "I'm not sure I’m that good, but I will tell you a story.  Let me start with telling you the story of how I got here.  This is a favorite pastime of my race, sharing stories about our adventures, with one another."

And so I told him the story of how I sailed for three weeks to get here.  How I was almost out of o2 by the time I got here.  Meeting him, going to the Drink Drunk, seeing his ship and how it all seemed like a dream.

After about an hour to tell the story, I said to him, "well, what do you think of this type of storytelling?"

"Excellent," he said, "Excellent.  This will be a story I can sell over and over again many times.  You not only make me feel as if I was there, but help me to understand how you felt.  To think about those three weeks you spent in space, sailing here on the solar winds.  If there had been a large solar flare, well, you would not be here to tell the story.  It was a brave trip you made, that made it even more exciting.  And how you felt when the guards grabbed you outside of the Drink Drunk, it was good you had that slap on translator."

I said, "yes, and I appreciate this fancy translator you gave me.  But what shall I call you, other than story buyer or dock negotiator?"

He said, "I can tell you my name, but it is hard to repeat, and the translator is of little help."  He said, in his language, "Owsee wa sphere."  The translator said, "One of 300 days in the Crublar calendar."

I said, "You're named after a day in your calendar?"

He said, "Yes, we all are.  There are 300 days in our year, and we are named after the day we were born on.  On the whole planet there are only 300 names for all of us.  It is only in the pronunciation that we fine difference.  We often add to our names something that makes us different, like the town we’re from or what job we do.  Here I am mostly known as the dock negotiator or the Crubularing.  But what shall I call you, other than human or earthly?"

I said, "I am called Mr. Nibor Suneiram Rellim."

"Does it have a meaning?"  He asked.

I said, "Well, the last name, Rellim, is my family name.  All the men from my family line are Rellim's.  The women are also name Rellim, but only until they taken a mate; then they adopt their husbands family name."

He said, "So, you're from the family of Rellim."

I said, "Yes, at one time people were named for what they did for a living.  I guess at one time, maybe hundreds of years ago, my family worked as rellim's".

Owsee, "What is a rellim?"

I said, "A rellim was a person that would grind grain into flour; a person of some importance to farmers."

Owsee, "And your other names?"

I said, "My middle name, Suneiram, was my grandmother's first name.  We often honor family members by naming our children after them, I think it means of the sea.  And my first name, Nibor, is the name of a bird that flies north at the first sign of spring.  I was born in the month of March, and my mother was looking forward to seeing the first sign of spring, the nibor; so she named me after it."

Owsee, "You have a very rich name, but how do you wish for me to address you?"

I said, "You can call me Mr. Nibor, or human if you like."

Owsee, "As you wish.  But in private I think I shall call you a storyteller, storywriter or teacher."

I said, "Teacher, I kind of like the sound of that."

Owsee, "Tell me, what other ways dose your race tell stories?"

I said, "Well, we sing songs and recite poems."

Owsee, "Poems, what is a poem?"

I said, "A poem is a short story that has a rhythm or rhyme to it."

Owsee, "Can you recite one for me?"

I said, "Sure, now let me see, oh yes."

"Oh times of times, ye men of men; I've come to speak with you again.  But answers do you give to me, of questions I've yet to perceive.  And thus a fortune in my hand, I cannot see nor understand.  It bothers me that life would rhyme, with facts that leave holes in my mind".

"Excellent!" Owsee said, "Is this a school lesson that was taught to you?"

I said, "it’s just one of the poems I have written."

Owsee, "You wrote this?"

I said yes, and he asked if I had others.  I told him that I had at least 50 or so more that I may be able to remember.

He said, "I must hear them all."

I said, “it will take many days for me to remember most of them.”

Owsee, "Of course, of course, you must be tired.  Feel free to rest here, I must go out to do some negotiating on the docks.  There is a chip in the back of your translator was an additional 500 credits, and it will let you in or out of my ship."

I said, "Won't it be somewhat dangerous to walk around with such a flashy translator and so many credits?"

Owsee, "Oh no, there are monitors all over this station.  No one may commit a crime on the station without immediate punishment.  Except at the Drink Drunk place, there is no law there.  You can do anything you like there, even kill without permission, that's what makes it such a dangerous place."

I said, "I'll keep that in mind."

Owsee, "There are many other shops here that you may wish to visit, perhaps they will inspire your next story."

I said, "Yes, I do want to see more of the station.  But for now, I need to take a nap."

Owsee, "Yes, yes, rest well.  I will see you later."

Owsee left the room and I quickly fell asleep on the sofa like furniture I was sitting on; I swear it was humming something as I fell asleep.  Living furniture was something new to me.  I guess I'll just have to get used to it.

Day 2: Chapter 2 ?

I don't know how long I slept; there was no night or day here, just one long twilight.  I was lucky to remember my way to the hatch that led outside.  Owsee had said there was a number of small shops on the station, I figured I would look them over.  The air seemed a bit thin until I got inside the station.  Then it was much fresher and easier for me to breathe.  I was looking forward to going to the Drink Drunk again, but one look at the guards nearby made be put that on my list as the last -- place to stop.

I was looking through the window, of what seemed to be a closing shop.  When two very tall hairless aliens in white robes, put their hands on my shoulders.  They told me they were the sanitation police, and that I needed to come with them.  I was shocked, I mean, it's not like I just pissed on the floor or something.  I asked them what I had done, and they told me that my clothes were  illegal on this station.

I said, "Others are wearing clothes, even you."

They said, "Yes, but we do not allow clothing made from animals or plants.  They have too high of a risk of transmitting diseases."

So they took me down the hall to a place where they asked me to take off my clothes.  Then they put them in a metal box which was inserted into the wall.  A small chip was given to me, and they said, "You may have these things back when you leave the station."

I said, "Now I understand why most of the aliens are walking around naked."

He said, "Be glad we no longer incinerate clothes, just sterilize and store."

As I was walking out the door, I turned my head and said, "Are you sure you're not getting kick-backs from the clothing store?"

I could see that pissed him off.  He said, “Just a minute.”  And while one of them stepped in front of me to block my way, the other walked over  to the wall where my box of clothes were.  Looking at me, he pushed the black button.  I heard a whoosh sound as he said, "Oh my, looks like your things did not survive the sterilization process, sorry about that."

I said, "Yeah, I bet you are."  And I threw the chip he had given me on the floor.  Then I gave the the one in my way a look that needed no translation.  He stepped out of the way and I walk out the door.  I stopped for a moment and began to turn around to say something, like us naked aliens would like to buy you a drink sometime.  But I held my tongue.  No need to piss these guys off anymore than they already were.  After all, I didn't know how long I would be on this station.

So I just headed down the hallway for the clothing store.

Just before I got there I heard a guard from across the hall yell out something that my translator picked up as, “I told you to change your clothes.”

Now I understood.  He was not telling me that I stank, he was trying to warn me that this would happen.

I walked into the store; with nothing but the fancy translator around my neck.  The beautiful, light-green-skinned, woman that was working there turned toward me.  After looking me over, up and down, she said, "another victim of the sanitation police I presume?"

She was wearing a rather translucent fish net, kind of, bodysuit.  And it was hard for me to conceal the fact that my, feelings, were definitely aroused.

I said, "Yeah, now I know why there are so many naked aliens around here."

"Oh," She said, "Most of them just like it that way.  It’s easier if you want to breed."

Then she touched me on the shoulder and ran her fingers down my arm as she said, "I have never, had a humanoid, here before."

She then stepped back a foot and raised her hands in a grand gesture, saying, "What can I show you?"

I wanted to say you and me in one of the positions of the Kama-sutra.  However, my lips said, "A cloak with a hood, I believe."

The first thing she pulled off the rack was transparent.  I just said, "I think not."

I finally settled on a chameleon cloak.  She said it would change to match anything around it, and that it was a one-of-a-kind.  She also said she had never seen another like it, and that's why it cost 300 credits.  If it could do all she said it could, it was a bargain.  The fit was just right, it came down to my feet.  With the hood up my face was in shadow and not seen.  It had a sash in the middle and deep pockets inside.  She even tossed in a pair of boots that fit great.  She said the boots would mold themselves to my feet, and that they would last a lifetime.  I would have paid 300 credits just for such great boots.

As I was leaving she said, "feel free to come by anytime, I never close."

I had the feeling, I would be seeing her again soon.

“blue goo”

As I walked down the hall, in my new boots and cloak, I saw Owsee outside of the bar talking to a guard.  I walked over and said hello.

"Hello my new friend," he said, "I hear you had a run-in with our sanitation police.  I'm sorry I didn't warn you, it slipped my mind.  But I must say, that is a very nice cloak you have.  You have been shopping.  What do you think of the woman that runs the shop?  Not bad aye?"

I said, "not bad at all."

Owsee, "I have some business in here.  Do you want to join me for a drink?"

I said sure and we went inside.  We walked straight past the bar to a table in the back corner.

He said, "I like to keep my back to the wall and my eye on the door, in a place like this, if you know what I mean."

The bartender brought over a short bottle and two shot glasses.  Owsee pointed toward the little orange man and said to me, "he knows me, I only drink spice dew."

To which the man replied, "and you are the only one that can afford it."

Then he looked at me and asked if I would like some Go-Joe Juice.  At which Owsee said, "no, he does not want any of your Go-Joe juice.  I am going to teach him to drink spice dew."

And with that he poured a shot for both of us and said, "now the trick to drinking  this stuff is to hold onto the table with one hand, keep your eyes open, and drink the whole shot at once."

I asked why I should hold onto the table.

"For balance," he replied, "this stuff has a good kick to it."

He did his shot, leaned forward and back again, and a moment later said, "oh yeah, that's the stuff, now you."

And so, with one hand on the table, I put the glass to my lips and downed the liquid in one gulp.  All of the sudden, I could feel my whole body fly across the room.  I could see the front door just inches away from my face.  Then I was pulled back, across the room to my seat, and saw sparks of light dancing all around me.

I said, "wow!  I have never had anything like that before."

Owsee, "did you fly across the room?"

I said, "yes."

He said, "good, I was not sure if it would be the same for a human."

I said, "I can see why it cost so much."

He said, "you don't know the half of it.  The more you drink the farther you go, and the bigger the light show afterwards."

He then poured another drink for both of us.  We raised our glasses to each other, and downed them at the same time.  I went right through the door, in my mind, and into the hall beyond.  I looked back and could see the two guards outside of the Drink Drunk.  Then I was pulled back to my chair and enjoyed a short light show.

I said, "is what I saw real?"

He asked how far I went and I said, "outside and down the hall, I could look back on the door and the guards."

Owsee, "good, good.  It works on the part of the brain that controls psychic ability."

He poured another round for us and said, "let's see if we can make it to the docks this time."

We both downed the dew at the same time, and off I went.  Before I knew it, I was on the docks by my ship.  The door was opened, and a reptile looking thing in a green loincloth was looking inside.  I was about to shout at him when I felt myself being pulled back to my body.  There was an explosion of color and my body felt as if it was still floating, then the feeling was gone.

Owsee said, "did you make it all the way to the docks this time?"

I replied, "yes, and there is someone poking around my ship."

Owsee pulled out a flat screen monitor from the bag on his side, and with a few keystrokes had a view of my ship on it.

"That's him," I said.

"That's her," he said.  "I talked to her a few hours ago about the ship.  But I did not give her permission to open it.  Watch the screen as my clicks do their magic."

Lights started to flash and an alarm started screaming; the reptile ran away.  Owsee began laughing, and a few more clicks later he turned it all off.  He then tapped his communicator, on his shoulder, and told someone to close and lock the hatch to my ship.

I asked him if he thought she might still want to buy the ship.

He said, "I'm not sure.  I don't think she has the credits anyway.  Besides, there is no place to fly it around here, because there is only one sun.  Now my system has three suns.  Oh, they are far away from each other, but a person could still fly in circles in a system like that.  You know, the more I think about it the better it sounds to me.  I'll buy your ship."

I said, "what would you do with such a small ship?"

He said, "I'll just throw it in the back of my big ship.  When I get back to my planet I'll have no problem selling it, to someone that wants to do some planet hopping."

I said, "fine, what's it worth to you?"

Owsee said, "oh, how about another 1000 credits on top of the 500 I gave you."

I said, "that's very generous of you."

And he said, "when one has just about everything, it is easy to be generous.  How about some more spice dew?"

I said, "not right now, thank you, it has left a very dry taste in my mouth.  I would like something to clean my palate."

Owsee, "ale, that's what you need, ale.  They make find ale here.  Although I'm not completely sure that it's not made from the fungus off of one of those chairs.  But it’s a find ale."

"I'll get some ale," I said.

Then I stood up and walked over to this end of the bar.  The bar keeper came right over and said, "what can I get you?"

I said, "two of your best ales."

"Coming right up," he said.

Then one of the creatures there said, "tell us another joke."

I said, "okay, but this is a riddle with a wager.  If you can guess the answer before I leave, I will buy the house a drink.  But if not, then all of you owe me a drink."

"That sounds fair," said the bar keeper.  "What's the riddle?"

I said, "a farmer has just come from town with a chicken, a bag full of corn, and a Fox.  He needs to cross a rope-bridge to get home.  But he can only carry one, out of three, at a time across the bridge; because he needs to hold onto  the rope with his other hand, and he only has two hands.  If he leaves the chicken and the corn behind, the chicken will eat the corn; and he was hoping to plant the corn at home.  If he leaves the chicken and the Fox, the fox will eat the chicken; and he was hoping to keep the chicken for the eggs it would lay.  Now we know the Fox will not eat the corn, but in what order does he bring only one across at a time?"

"That's a good riddle," the barkeeper said.  Then I walked back to the table with the ale.  We sipped our ale and watched all the aliens at the bar toss ideals around.  Someone would say no, no, that's not right -- the Fox will eat the chicken, or the chicken will eat the corn.  It was great fun listing to them try to figure it out.

Owsee poured  another shot of spice dew for us, this time I was flying high above the moon; almost out of its atmosphere.  But there was no fireworks or lights when I came back; instead, everything was in slow motion.  I could see the bartender, walking very slowly down the bar, carrying a fat red bottle in his hands and coming over to our table.

Then it became real time again, and he said to me, "I'll give you this bottle of travackeying firewater is you tell me the answer now."

I said, "if you have the answer before I leave, I will owe the bar a drink."

Leaving the bottle on the table, he stepped back and said, "you are very smart  -- human.  But keep the firewater, maybe it will loosen your tongue."

He then went back behind the bar and tended to his patrons.

Owsee picked up the bottle and said, "this is some pretty good stuff.  You don't see much of this."

He opened the bottle, and giving it a sniff said, "I don't know, the last time I drink some of this stuff I was up for three days before I could rest."

He then handed me the bottle, and I gave it a sniff.  It didn't particularly smell strong.  He leaned on the table and whispered, "what do you say, shall we be brave hearts?"

I looked him in the eyes, then poured us a shot, and lifting my glass said, "to brave hearts."

To brave hearts he replied.  And we both drank our shots.

I set my glass down and waited for something to happen.  But there was nothing; no kick, no flavor, just a dry mouth.

I then hear Owsee saying, "oh yeah, that stuff will kick start your heart."

I took a sip of my ale, then held out the bottle of firewater to give him another shot.  But he waved me off, saying, "one is enough of that stuff for me, thank you very much."

So I poured myself another one and downed it.  Nothing but a dry mouth.  So I set it to the side and said, "I don't feel a thing."

He said, "maybe it takes a while with humans."

So I just sat there, content with my ale.

Just then the bar keeper walked over to the table and said, "how's the firewater?"

I said, "I taste the water, but where's the fire?"

He said, "well sometimes it takes a while with some species.  But I came over to tell you that everyone has given up on trying to figure out your riddle.  So just give me the answer, and I will buy the house a drink; also, everything you drink will be free for the next hour."

I said, "okay, that's a deal.  Now listen carefully.  First, he takes the chicken across; and leaves the Fox with the corn, that he will not eat.  Then he goes back, brings the Fox across the bridge, and takes the chicken back with him to get the corn.  He leaves the chicken and takes the corn across, to leave with the Fox, and goes back to get the chicken."

"I see," said the bar keeper," very clever.  May I bring you anything else to drink?"

I said, "I'll have another ale".

With that, the man went back to get the ale.

Owsee looked at me and said, "master storyteller indeed.  Your stories do not disappoint.  You are a very clever human indeed."

And with that, I had another shot of that firewater.  The bar keeper brought my ale, then went back to tell the rest of the bar the answer to the riddle.

I think I was starting to feel the firewater, as my lips and nose were starting to go numb.

I turned to Owsee and said, "I have a poem, with a riddle for you".

I took a sip of my ale, to clear my throat, and said,

"When sand, through lightning’s force, becomes -- United Crystal, known as one; if broken, shall it ever be, what once, reality perceived?"

Owsee said, "the answer is no.  Glass cannot be sand again.  Very good, I like your poems.  They make me think."

And with that he poured me some more of the spice dew, and said, "to the stars!"

I did my shot, then could see myself on the docks.  A ship was taken off, so I flew with it until I was in space and far above this moon.  I could see the entire solar system and it was a great feeling of freedom.  I then felt drawn back to my body.  I could see myself flying down to the moon, through the station, and into the bar.  Then I could see a large alien standing by our table.

I pushed myself back into my body just in time to hear it say, "I said I want to buy your ship."

I told him the ship had already been sold.

He said, "then tell me who you sold it to."

I looked over at Owsee, and could see he did not want to deal with this, rather large, rude fellow.  So I said, "I will let him know you're interested."

"Not good enough," he said, and swung his large fist at my head.  I blocked it with my left hand, and with great ease crushed his.  I then stood up and shoved him back as he screamed in pain.  The bar keeper, just noticing there was trouble, reached over the bar was a pole; that, as he touched the creature, knocked it out.  Then the bar keeper said something to a rather large creature nearby.  It got up, and with a mighty stomp, turned the alien's head into a glob of blue goo.  He then dragged the body to the door, tossed it out,  and went back to his seat.

Owsee said, "we should take advantage of the situation.  The guards will not take long to drag the body away.  And I need to lay claim to his ship.  He owes me for repairs."

I slipped the bottle of firewater under my cloak and into a deep pocket.  Owsee opened the door and looked both ways, no guards.  So we walked quickly down the hall to the docks.  Looking back, I could see a trail of blue goo where the body had been dragged away.

Owsee said, "I told you that could be a dangerous place.  If you had told him you sold the ship to me, I would be the goo they would be dragging away.  Thank you very much."

I said, "you're very welcome."

“The mess”

The air on the docks did not seem to be as bad as it was before; as I was feeling strong, and wide awake, but my nose and lips were still numb.  I stayed close to Owsee as we looked over the dead aliens ship.

Owsee said, "his ship has been ready for two days now, and he has given me nothing.  I think he was planning not to pay me.  I'm glad he is dead, now I can just take the ship as payment."

We walked into what seemed to be a storage-bay, at the back of the ship.

Owsee, "Junk! Nothing but old junk in here.  I would be lucky if I get half of what he owes me for all the stuff."

He then hit a button to open the bay doors.  Looking at the open carefully he said, "I think we can fit your ship in here."

"Your ship," I replied.

He said, "that's right, I bought it from you.  You know you have too much when you can't even remember what you have."

I said, "that's one problem I would not mind having."

He told some workers to clean out the things in there, put my old ship in this one, and this one in the back of his ship.  We then went over to his big ship to open it up, and make sure there was room; as the dead alien’s ship was about the size of a three-story house.

When we got to the end of the docks, Owsee pulled a remote control out of his pocket and pointed it at his mountain of a ship.  There was the sound of a loud  siren, that I'm sure was heard all over the station, then many other small ones.  The ground began to rumble as the back end of the mountain started to break away.  Piles of dirt fell, and the dust filled the air.

From out of the dust, came a great crash that shook the ground; so badly I almost fell down.  And a blast of dust, covered not only us but the docks as well; with a fine white powder.

I had pulled my hood up, and covered my face, but it was still hard to breathe.

Owsee said, "well, I'm glad to see that still works.  You know, I don't think I have opened that in at least 20 years or more.  Just imagine what it will be like when I take her up.  I’ll probably destroyed over half of the station."

We went in through a side door, then down to bay, because there were mounds of dirt over 30 feet high around the back of the ship.  Everything in the bay was covered with 3 inches of dust.

The cargo-bay was huge.  The door alone was 100 feet high and wide.  There was all manner of cargo lining the walls.  But plenty of room for the other ship, once things were moved around a bit.

Owsee looked at me and said, "well, I'm telling you one thing, I'm not clean up this mess."

We both laughed, and went to get something to eat, then sat down in the front observation lounge.  I pulled out the bottle of firewater and set it on the table.

Owsee said, "you're lucky we left before the guards came back.  They would've taken that away from you."

I said, "seems to me I remember someone saying we should take advantage of the situation."

"Quite right," he said, "well done.  You would make a fine negotiator."

I said, "barter is the prime means of advancement to my race."

Owsee, "really, I have a lot to learn from you.  How about a little of that firewater?"

I said, "I thought you said it would keep you up?"

Owsee, "the mess down below will take days to clean up, even for my crew, and I have never been one to sleep when there are others on my ship; not counting you a course, I feel I can trust you."

I said that I was glad to hear it as he got two glasses from under the table and poured us both one.

Then I said, "here's to sleeping among friends and prosperity on your horizon."

"Friends and prosperity," he said, and took a big gulp of the firewater.

My mouth went cotton dried and I felt a tingle in my feet.  Then my legs went numb and my eyes seemed to be wide open without any blinking.  I even had to think about my blinking to keep them from getting too dry.

I said, "you know what, I think I am beginning to feel this stuff."

Owsee, "oh, so the human can't hold his firewater?"

I said, "I believe I have had about five more drinks of this than you have.  Would you like to, try to, catch up?"

He said, "no thank you, I want to still be able to feel my legs.  And I need to supervise the cleanup down below.  Remember the whole back end of my ship is open.  If I don't keep an eye on things, they will rob me.  But as long as you are sitting there, without the use of your legs, I have something for you."

He moved things on the table to one side and said, "now, put your translator on the corner."

I did it, and the table lit up.

Owsee, "now write anything you want, then hit the corner of the translator so the light comes on, then say the word.  Then you just tap the word on the table and the translator will say it back.  You can use it to teach the translator you written word."

I said, "thank you, this will be very helpful."

Owsee, "and before I forget, here is a wrist-com..   Just tap it and you can reach me anywhere on the station."

I said, "thank you."

He said, "you have fun.  I need to get down to the bay and take care of things."

I said, "okay, I'll see you later."

He replied, "see you later," and went off to take care of things while I played around with the table.

For a short time, I just sat there looking at it and thinking what an enormous job it would be.  How long would it take to write every word I know?  I finished what little firewater was in my cup and poured myself another drink.  After a while of just sitting there, sipping my water, it came to me to teach the computer the alphabet.  After all, that's how I learned to sound things out.  Of course, there would be a problem when it came to the different sounds the vowels make, but I was sure this could really work.  I got so excited, that without thinking, I took a big drink of the firewater and my arms went numb for time.  I could barely move them to write, but then the numbness went away.  By the time I was done teaching the computer the alphabet my legs got their feeling back, and the translator was now on a first grade level.  So I then went to the back of the ship to see how things were going.

I found myself on a platform overlooking the Bay.  They had five large hoses laid out, across the floor, that ran outside.  And on the end of each hose, there were two to three, people trying to hold on as it sucked up everything in front of them.  They were just about done with the bigger hoses by the time I got down to the deck.

As I was walking over to Owsee, he saw me coming and said, "look at what I have done.  I reversed the flow on the grain loaders and out goes the dust.  Not bad at aye, better than a broom."

The other ship was already sitting on the giant door outside the cargo bay, just waiting for them to move the hose out of the way.

Owsee, "so how goes trying to teach my stupid computer how to write and read, any luck?"

I said, "I have made some progress, but I think it will take a better programmer than me to get it right."

Owsee, "don't worry, I know many programmers and they all owe me credits.  If there is one thing you can bet your last credit on, it’s that if I don't know how to do something I know someone that does."

They got the hose out of the way, and the pilot flew the ship in; turning it around as he went, then sat it down.

Owsee, "I had to cancel most of the debts, on each one of them, to get this done -- but it was worth it.  Now I can get some rest.  I don't sleep like you, I just rest."

As the men left he closed the big door; the rumble was not as bad as it had been before.

Then he turned to me and said, "let's go see the one that made your translator.  I think he can help us."

“The device”

We left by the side door and headed toward the station entrance.  I could see that most of the workers were trying to get the dust off things.  There was a bit of commotion between two of them.  One was blowing the dust off a work platform, toward another’s area of work.  I didn't need a translator to understand what they were yelling about.

Owsee, "look at how disorganized these people are.  If I was down there I would tell them to blow the dust off one platform, then do the other.  But those two are not working for me right now; they are on their own time, and will have to learn how to get along without me."

I then took my cloak off, and shook it to get the rest of the dust off, before going into the station.

After we entered the main door of the station, we turned down the hall and went into a shop on the left.  It looked like any other, computer and electronics, store I had ever been in.  Lots of things I had no use for.  The owner was a very tall, slim, gray skinned fellow.  He stood behind a large glass display case with a floor-to-ceiling mirror behind him.  Owsee said hello to him as I stood behind, and to one side.  Then I pulled my hood back and could see my head in the mirror.  But only my head, just floating there.  I had put my cloak on right side out, without knowing it.

The tall man looked at me and said, "that's a nice cloak you have there.  But I think you need to wear it inside-out, unless you need not to be seen."

I took the cloak off and turn it inside-out, then put it back on again; it had a silver look to it this way.

The man said, "that's better.  A cloak like that should be a secret, someone may think you are up to no good."

Then he asked what he could do for us today.  And Owsee told him we were trying to teach a translator to read and write in my language.

"Read and write," he said, "do you know how long it took me just to teach it the 10 primaries?"

Owsee, "we have already started, but we just need some help with the programming changes."

He said, "let's see what you have."

I gave him the translator as he opened a rolled up flat screen computer.  Then he put the translator on one corner of it, and the computer came to life.  He gave it a tap, and the menu of what I had programmed came up.

He looked through my work quickly and said, "so this is your alphabet, there is some good work here.  So what is the problem?"

I said, "there are five letters that do not always sound the same.  We call them vowels.  They are, a, e, i, o, and u.  Out of 26 letters, only these have the ability to some different ways."

"I see," he said, "your translator was not built for this kind of work.  I can put an extra trip in it for more memory, and a learning program that should do the trick."

Owsee asked how much it would cost.

The storekeepers said, "I'll take the download of information as payment.  And I'll give you the view-mat for free."

Owsee, "toss in an ear-monitor, with extended range, and it’s a deal."

Storekeeper, "you're a good negotiator, it's a deal.  But I want an example of the vowel sounds before you leave."

Owsee said it was a deal.

I walked down the showcase and looked at all the things on display, while they talked and worked on the device.  One thing that caught my eye was a ring.  It had a round cut gem, that was attached to a 2 inch round disc that had a Velcro strap on it.  I stared at it for a time, the gem seemed to glow a bit.  I don't know how long I was looking at it, but the next thing I knew the storekeeper was standing in front of me putting the translator down.

He said, "is there something I can show you?"

I looked down and pointed.

"ah-yes, that," he said, "you have a keen eye for the unusual."

He reached down, and pulling it out said, "a telekinetic enhancer.  It also can be used to open electronically sealed doors.  Come with me to the back room, I'll show you how it works."

The three of us went to the back room with him.  There were racks on both sides of the room, but it was open in the middle.  At the end of the room were some blue barrels, that looked as if they had been hit by something many times.  Owsee stood by the door as we went to the middle of the room.  The storekeeper then took my right hand and slipped the ring on my middle finger, with the disc on the back of my hand, and the strap around my wrist.  He then told me to turn the diamond like gem, clockwise, until it glows red.  Then to reach out toward the barrels with the palm of my hand.

I turn the gem until it made a click and turn red.  Then I extended my arm out with my palm facing the barrels, nothing happened.

Owsee yelled out, "the spice dew worked on him."

The storekeeper said, "pretend the barrel is right in front of you and hit the air between you."

So I pulled my arm back and trusted it forward, toward the wall.  There was a shock wave that moved two of the barrels a few feet.

"Good, good," said the storekeeper, "now I want you to just stand there, with your palms facing the barrels.  But I want you to be calm, at peace with yourself.  Very relaxed and just breathing in the air.  Very good.  Now look at your hand, make sure you’re aiming at just one barrel.  Feel the power inside you come from your toes, through your body, up your arm,  and with a mighty blast out your --."

And with that a wave of energy came out of my hand, and hit the barrel so hard that it shattered into many small pieces.  The wall itself had a buckle in it.

Owsee, "very good, he's a natural."

Storekeeper, "all right, that is enough of that, now let me show you the rest.  Come over to the door."

So we went over to the door as he shut and locked it.  Then said to pass the back-side of my hand over the lock.  I did it and the door opened.  Owsee said I was a natural at it, and the storekeeper said I had some latent telekinetic abilities.  Then he reached down to my hand and turned the stone until it was off again.

We then walked toward the front of the store as he said, "in the seven years I have had this store I have only sold two others.  If I sell this to you, I would hope you fair better than the others did."

I said, "why, what happened to them?"

Storekeeper, "they were unwise, foolish, and un-careful."

Owsee, "they are dead."

Storekeeper, "yes, well when someone walks around bragging about something, it does come to that from time to time."

Owsee, "how much will you sell this one for?"

Storekeeper, "500 credits, no less."

Owsee, "that a lot of credits.  Can’t we do better?"

Storekeeper, "it is not just the merchandise, it’s the responsibility.  500, no less."

Owsee, "well, it's up to you.  But 500 credits are a lot I think.  If you come back another day maybe you pay less."

I said, "it's not about money, Owsee, it's about respect and that's something I would not wish to cheapen, 500 will do fine."

And I handed him my credit chip.  He smiled and nodded at me, as to say, thank you.  We finish the vowel program, and he downloaded his copy.  Then he handed me the rolled up monitor, and the earpiece which felt surprisingly comfortable.

As we were leaving he said, "you may wish to get a pair of gloves.  They can have more than one use."

I smiled and nodded as we left.

“A visit to med lab”

After we went out the door, Owsee said, "I think you want to get some gloves now."

I said yes, and Owsee said, "okay, but first we need to go to the med lab and get you scanned.  We have one of the best med lab's on this side of the galaxy.  If anything happens to you, they can put you back together.  But only if they have a scan on the file; they can't fix you if they don't know what you looked like before."

I said, "all right, let's go to get me scanned."

Owsee, "besides, I need to check on my arms."

I said, "are you having problems with your arms?"

He said, "no, not with these, my other arms.  You see, when I first came here, over 35 years ago, I was working on the docks.  There was so much work that I wanted another set of arms.  So they cut off my old arms and put them in cryo, then gave me these.  Once I got used to the claws, instead of the hands, I was able to work faster than ever; made a lot of money that way.  But I do not want to go back to my home without my arms and hands.  How about you?  Would you like to have a set of claws?  I'll give them to you at no cost."

I said, "no thank you, I like it the way I am."

So we went to the med lab.  Owsee walked over to someone and started talking to him, or her, as I stood in the doorway.

He then turned to me and said, "come over here, don't be shy."

So I walked over to where he was and said hello to something in a tall black cloak, with a deep hood pulled over its head; I could see two glowing eyes under the hood, but nothing more.

It said, "take all your clothes, Jewelry, weapons or devices, off and stand by the wall."

I took everything off, leaving it on the floor by Owsee, and stood by the wall.  A green light came down from the ceiling, then there were three bright flashes that came from three different directions.  I could not see anything for a few moments.

Then Owsee brought my translator over and hung it around my neck.

He said, "it's all over, they got a good scan.  You can get dressed now."

So I put my things back on, and Owsee said, "they told me my arms are still in good condition.  There has been no interruption in the cryo chamber.  They can put them back on anytime I like, they just need a few hours to prepare them for reattachment.  He gave me a list of drugs I should take to make the process go easier."

I said, "so are you going to do it now?"

Owsee, "I'm going to do it, but I’ll need some help.  All the drugs on this list are mind altering and powerful.  When the time comes, to be back here, I need to get past the guards.  Maybe they will be understanding and bring me here, but I don't know.  One thing is sure, I will be out of my head.  And if I don't get here own time, I will lose my arms for good, they will not keep."

I said, "I'll make sure you get back on time."

He said, "thank you for being a friend."

The doctor came out with a bag full of things, and they talked for a short time, then we left.

“New gloves”

Owsee, "I told them to find me at the Drink Drunk.  Why don't you shop for your gloves and I'll meet you there."

I said, "okay, I'll meet you there."  And I went to the clothing store.

I told the woman that I needed a pair of gloves.

She said, "you mean you didn't come just to see me?"

I said, "I came to see you, and a pair of gloves."

She said, "well here I am, and here are the gloves we have.  Anything special in that mine?"

I said, "why, what have you got?"

"I always have something special," she said, "how about some Stillis, fire and heat resistant, gloves with built-in climbing grip abilities?"

I said, "that sounds interesting, tell me more about them."

She said, "well, you can dip your hands in liquid metal or o2 and not feel any change in temperature, and nothing will stick to them.  But if you want them to stick, you just slap your hands on something, and it will not let go unless you push your hand forward and up.  You can climb glass, metal, rock, wood, anything.  They have micro suction cups and grip-hairs.  They are also on sale."

I asked how much and she said, "well now, that depends on whether or not I'm going to see you again, and when.  I get lonely for humanoid companionship."

I said, "I need to help Owsee for a few hours, but then I can be back."

She said, "sounds purr--fect to me," and I again asked how much for the gloves.  She said, "50 credits, marked down from 150.  That is to say, you pay full price now, and get a hundred back when you come back.  Any problem with that?"

I said, "how do I know you've give the 100 back?"

She said, "I have never broken a verbal contract, you will just have to trust me."

So I let her scan my chip.  She then handed me my chip back, and the gloves.

I said, "I'll see you later," and started to walk out.  Then I turned and said, "is there any way to cut a small hole in the finger of the glove, without damaging it?"

She said, "a hole?  You want to cut a hole in a brand-new pair of gloves?  You will need a very hot laser to do that to those gloves."

I nodded my head in agreement and gave a small wave goodbye.

“Too many drugs”

Then I went to the Drink Drunk bar.  There were no guards outside.  The door opened just as I stepped in front of it, but no one was being thrown out.  I walk right in and to the table in the back where Owsee was sitting, the same one we were in before.  It seemed a bit brighter than the last time I was there, and there was no background music or noise.  I sat down and showed Owsee the new gloves.

He asked, "how much did she charged you for them?  I hope it was not too much over 100."

I said, "only 50."

Owsee, "50, only 50 for that kind of glove, I think she likes you."

I said, "I'm sure she does.  I plan to see her again after I take you to the med lab."

Owsee, "good, good, you should get together and have some fun.  But right now, I am trying to figure out what to drink with the meds they gave me.  The instructions say it should be 25 to 50% alcohol, to speed the meds along.  This is the first time I have ever been told, by a doctor, to get totally smashed."

I looked over to the bar, and caught the eye of the tall yellow-skinned fellow working there tonight.  He came over and said his name was, "Yo," and asked what he could do for us.  We told him we needed something with a lot of alcohol in it.  He said there was not much call for that around here, but that he would take his scanner and look in the back.

While he was gone, Owsee started to take out his meds and put them on the table.

"Look at this," he said, "they gave me too much.  This bag of white powder, do you know what it is used for?  This is what they use to make firewater with, taste it."

I dipped my finger into the bag and tasted it.  My lips and tongue went num.

Owsee, "I have at least a pound of it here.  You could keep the whole station up for a week with that much."

I said, "well, look at it this way, you can make your own firewater for a long -- time now."

Owsee, "the instructions say I can eat it, inject it, smoke it or put it up my nose."

I said, "it sounds a lot like something we head back on Earth."

We were looking at all the other meds he had been given, when the bar keeper came back with a 5 gallon barrel.  He put it on a bench near us and said, "I don't know what it is called, but the scan came up with 40% alcohol, and the rest is a mix of water, fruit juice and trace elements."

He filled a small picture, and set it on the table with 2 cups.  I poured myself a little and took a sniff, it smelled like orange.  I then took a sip, as they both looked on for my opinion.  After swallowing, and a brief exhale, I said, "rum, it's orange rum by God, 80 proof rum."

"Is it good?"  Asked the bar keeper.

"Very good, I'll take the whole barrel if we can come to an arrangement on the price."

"No, no," Owsee said, "put it down on my tab and we will negotiate price with the owner at a later time."

Yo said, "is there anything else I may get you gentlemen?"

I said, "yes, a large picture of ale and a couple straws, if you have them."

Yo, "straws?  I do not know what this is."

I said, "a small tube you can sip your drink through."

Yo, "oh yes, jumbo sticks, we have them.  I shall bring you some."

"Jumbo sticks?"  I said to Owsee.

Owsee, "jumbo sticks, made from the secretion of a sap bearing tree, and ground up grain.  You can sip your drink from it then eat them, very tasty, you will like them."

Yo brought back a large picture of ale and a handful of jumbo sticks, then said, "will there be anything else?"

Owsee, "yes, give me control over the security screen for this table."

Yo, "of course sir."  And he pulled out a chip from his pocket, and inserted it into a slot on the side of the table.  Then he went back to his other customers.

Owsee, "now let me show you why I liked this table so much."

He then reached over and pushed a button where the chip was put into the table, and a force field went up.

Owsee, "now no one gets close to us unless we want them to."

He took a sip of the rum he had poured for himself and said, "not bad."  Then he reached into the big bag of powder, and pulled out what he could get from the sides of his claws, and said, "I miss my fingers."

I said, "let me help," and I grabbed a good three-fingered pinch then sprinkled it in his rum.  He stirred it around with a jumbo stick and drank it right down.

Then I said, "let me show you another way to do this stuff."  And I took a pinch of powder and put it on the table.  With the edge of a jumbo stick I made two lines.  Then I put the stick to my nose and inhaled a line.  He did the same and said, "that's good, I can breathe better on that side now, let's do the other side."

So I got another pinch and made two more lines for us.

"Very good," he said, "just the thing after all that dust from the ship."

"What's this bag of green stuff?"  I asked.

Owsee, "that's a plant that grows on the fourth planet.  Some people like to eat it, and you can smoke it when it's dry enough; this looks very dry.  I have a pipe in my bag.  It will make you very mellow, just the opposite of the firewater.  Yes, here is my pipe, and a fire stick."

I said, "fire stick, I've seen these before, they are short range lasers."

Owsee, "yes, short range, I use it on delicate work."

He filled the pipe with the dry plant and lit it.  After taking a deep drag, on the pipe, he handed it to me.

While exhaling he said, "I used to do a lot of this when I first came here, to mellow out after work.  This is the good stuff.  You always get the best from the med lab."

I took a drag and started to cough.  "It's strong stuff," he said.  I relit it with the fire stick and was able to hold it in as I passed the pipe back to him.

Then exhaling, I said, "do you think that laser can cut a hole in my glove right about here?"  And I pointed to the spot where my ring was underneath.

Owsee, "no, not this one.  You could have it done at med lab, but I think you want to keep it a secret.  The man you got the device from should be able to help you.  He is your best bet I think."

We drank more rum and smoked the pipe as he asked me to recite another poem or story.  I told him about a metal disc called a quarter, which my race once used as credits.  And how it once has the picture of a bird, named an eagle, on one side and a picture of a man on the other.  Then they changed the pictures, I wrote a poem about it, and it went like this.

"Three Eagles flue to do my wash, upon a summer's day,

and three more flew to dry it, though for loss I may dismay.

Upon my Eagles back rides the head of a man,

to service all of the machines, across as token land.

And though his deeds were many, and his face may be well known,

it is the Eagles I will miss when from my hand have flown."

Owsee, "very good, a story about change spoken in a poetic way.  Your stories are not just facts, they explain how you feel about things.  That is what makes them special to me.  We must record them all."

I said, "if you want to record all my stories, it may take years."

Owsee, "and with each story you will become richer.  I do not lie, that is one thing I would never do, you can ask anyone.  I am from a race that lives on words.  The old laws say that a liar shall have his tongue cut out.  But it does not apply to outsiders.  That is why we do not trust off-worlders too much."

I said, "having your tongue cut out is quite an incentive to always tell the truth."

Owsee, "yes it is.  That is why I make such good deals.  I cannot lie to anyone, it's just not in my nature."

I said, "it is still hard for me to believe my stories are worth so much.  Maybe it is because I come from a planet of storytellers."

Owsee, "things are different out here.  You're one of the first to come so far.  If there were many more of you out here, the price would go down.  However, for now it’s just you."

Taking another toke on the pipe, I asked, "what are those fungus looking thing?"

"Mushrooms," he replied, "they are better fresh but they drive them out like this for storage, so they will last longer.  They have a nutty taste to them and are a hallucinogenic.  The instructions say to eat at least one but they gave me 10.  Once I start this, I will not even be able to find the door."

I said, "tell me what happens if someone breaks a leg, or otherwise can't walk to the med lab?"

Owsee, "they sent a stretcher for them."

I said, "so, knowing the condition you will be in, could we have them send one for you?"

Owsee, "that's a good idea, I'll call and ask them."

He used the com-link, which was on his shoulder, and called them.  The reply was yes; they would send one when they were ready.

Owsee said, "well that's a relief, now it don't matter how messed up I get, let's party!"

And with that, we both ate a mushroom.  They were very good, not like the ones I had on earth.  These have a nutty flavor to them and were sweet.  I wanted to eat more than just one, but I didn't want to get so messed up that I could not help him or miss my date with the storekeeper.

Then Owsee said, "I need to use the waste disposal room.  Turn the security screen back on after I leave the table."

And with that he turned the force field off and got up, took a moment to get his balance, and then walked off to the waste room.  I put the screen back up as soon as he left.  While he was gone I did two more lines and filled the pipe again.  As I was sitting there, toking on the pipe, when a green light started to flash on the edge of the table.  Thinking it may be a transmission, I was debating  whether or not to tap it when Owsee came back.  I let him in, then put the screen back up.  As he sat down he noticed the light, and said, "a communication.  Maybe my arms are ready."

He taped the light and a 3-D picture came on the security screen.  It was a download from the med lab, about the woman at the store.  It included information, with visual aids, about human and Catalack matting.

Owsee, "now I'm sure she likes you.  Your species are not so different I see.  I think you could make it work.  It was nice of her to send you instructions."

"Yes it was," I said, "I have never had a woman send me porn before."

Owsee, "look here, it says her skin turns pink when she is sexually aroused.  That is how you can tell if she is flirting, or if she truly wants you."

I said, "that's a good thing to know."

Owsee, "here, I'll put it on a dated chip for you.  Maybe you can review the information with her later, It may lead to something."

I said, "somehow I have the feeling that she will be doing the teaching, not the computer."

Owsee, "I think you're right, let's drink to it."

And we had some more of the rum with ale to wash it down with.

Then he said, "do you have any poems about love or women?"

I said, "there is one that comes to mind, now that you mention it.  It's called, "it's cheaper to pay for it," and it goes like this.

"It's cheaper to pay for it, that it is to pray for it.

For the coast of a girlfriend, never seems to an end.

There’s the dinner and dance, it's the coast of romance.

And fixing her car may bring points to go far.

But as cards find their max, as have paychecks done their dance.

It's her time don't you know, and you've nothing to show.

Then there's -- I may be late, just to give pain and grate.

Can you forget the cost?  Is there love without loss?"

Owsee, “that's a very good poem, because it is true I think.  It is hard to find a good woman, or a good man for that fact."

I said, "Yes, well the search goes on, for most of us.  But for right now I need to use the waste room myself," and got up -- then half sat down and stood up again.

He turned off the security screen and said, "I'll watch your back from here."

As I walked toward the room, I could hear the screen go back up.  There was no one in there as I locked the door behind me and proceeded to take care of business.  I was feeling the effects of the mushrooms and there were many pretty colors.  But things were moving from far away to close -- then back again, this made it difficult to stand or walk.  I soon return to the table.  And as I reached out to get my balance I was zapped by the force field, just a little.

The screen then went down and Owsee said, "I'm sorry.  My reflexes are a bit slower than normal, I didn't mean to let you get zapped."

I said, "it's all right.  I could see the field was still on, but I just lost my balance, no harm done."

Owsee, "I ate all the jumbo sticks while you were gone."

I said, "maybe we should have something more to eat."

Owsee, "they make a good meat sandwich here, at least sometimes it's meat.  Sometimes it's a plant that taste like meat."

I said, "do you want me to ask the bartender to make us some?"

He said, "I'll do it."  Then he taped a symbol on one side of the table and the barkeepers said, over an intercom, "yes sir, what may I get you?"

"Two meat sandwiches and some jumbo sticks," said Owsee.

"Yes sir, right away," said the barkeeper.

Owsee, "you see, that's another advantage to being at this table."

I said, "yeah, and that's the nice thing about a small place like this, it’s easy to get waited on.  Say, I got an old riddle for you.  How many ladders would it take to get to the sun?"

Owsee, "I don't know, how many?"

I said, "just one, but it would have to be a very long one."

Owsee, "ha ha Ha, that's a good one, a long one.  I need to tell that one to the barkeep."

The barkeeper brought us our sandwiches and Owsee told him the joke.  He then went back and told it to the rest of the bar.  It got a good laugh.  I guess that's one thing you can say about being so far from Earth, even the oldest jokes still get a laugh out here.

Owsee, "I feel like some music, the controls are on your side."

I said, "you mean the triangle?"

"Yes," he said, "you have seen this before?"

I pushed it down and it popped up.  Then I turned it until I found something that I liked.

As we ate our food I said, "this is about the best meat sandwich I have ever had."

Owsee, "yes, they do a good job of it here."

We then just sat back, smoking his pipe and listening to the music.

He said he would be straight again before me, because he was going to the med lab and they would fix him up right.

After a few moments, to gather his thoughts, he said to me, "do you know how I made my big money?  Water, I have the sole claim to the glacier on the back side of the Moon.  Mountains of water just waiting to be melted.  I bought them before anyone knew they were there.  I'll take you to my mine when we are both straighter, It does not take long to get there."

And just as he was saying that a message came in, telling him that his arms were ready, and they were sending a stretcher for him.

"Here," he said, "you take all of this stuff and put it in the bag.  When you get a chance, use your cloak to slip past the guards and take it to the ship."

We told the barkeeper to store the rest of the keg of rum in the back for us, and went to the front of the bar to wait for the men from med lab.  I turned my cloak right side out, and put my hood up so no one could see me.  Then waited in the corner until they got Owsee, and took him out, I slipped past the guards and down the hall.

“One hole then another”

I went to the ship and drop off the bag, then back to the shop where I got the telekinetic enhancer.  I asked the storekeeper if I could operate it with the glove on, and he said yes because the energy was directed at a distant object.  I asked if he could put a hole in the glove so I could turn it on, or off, without taking the glove off.

He said, "no problem, just show me where you want the hole."

I showed him how I wanted it, so the gem would show through the finger of the glove.  He went in the back for a moment then brought it back with a hole in just the right place.

I asked him how much I owed and he said, “this one is on the house, is there was anything else you would like to look at?

I said, "no, not right now, I have someone else I need to see."

The storekeeper said, "ah -- yes, the catalack."

"How did you know about her?"  I asked.

Storekeeper, "I am a collector of information, you must remember, you can't order a meat sandwich on this station without me knowing about it."

I said, "and do you also sell this information?"

He said, "from time to time, to the right person for the right price."

"I understand," I said, "thank you for the hole."

Then I left his shop to go to the clothing store.  As I went into her shop I could see her dealing with someone.  She waved to me, I waved back and try to look interested in some clothing I was standing near.  I listened to the way she dealt with this other customer.  She was not flirting the way she was with me.  They agreed on something, then the other men left.

She walked over to me and said, "so, did you come back for your credits or me?"

I said, "we have a saying where I come from, business before pleasure."

She scanned my chip to add 100 credits.  Them said to me, as she put her hands on my shoulders, "that takes care of the business, now how about some pleasure."

Then she kiss me on the lips, gently to see how receptive I was.  She pulled her head back a few inches and smiled as she slowly ran her hands down my arms, to my gloved hands.  Putting them behind her, she slapped both of my hands on her butt, saying, "see how well they stick, now I cannot get away from you."

She was turned pink all over, and said, "you just push on the fingertips to let go."

She pushed my hands up her bottom and the grip let loose from her.  Then she kept pushing my hands up her side until they were under her breast, and said, "see, no friction when you slide them slowly."

She reached behind me, and pulled me close as she gave me a passionate kiss.  My hands slipped around her back and I held her tightly.

Then I said, "can we go in the back room?  I like privacy."

I'll leave some of the details to the imagination of the reader, but needless to say we gave each other pleasure.

She told me there was no translation for her name so we settled on Kitty.  As I was leaving, her skin turned yellow, then back to normal white with a bit of a tan, and a hint of a light green.  I would have to look that one up.

“New arms for Owsee”

I then went to med lab to see how Owsee was doing.  I still felt a bit naked without any undergarments on.  Oh well, another reason to see Kitty again.

As I walked into the med lab the doctor said, "hello again, are you well?"

I said, "just a little tired thank you."

The doctor said, "yes, those katalackeons can tire a man out."

I said, "does everyone know my business?"

Doc, "I sent you the med download at her request.  I hope the information was helpful."

I said, "what does it mean when they turn yellow?"

Doc, "you mean yellow, then white?"

I said, "yes."

Doc, "this means they are pregnant."

I said "are you sure doc?  Could it be anything else?"

Doc, "no doubt about it, she should give birth in four to six weeks."

I said, "I don't feel so good."

Doc, "have you eating or drank anything that may cause this?"

I said, "I ate and drank at the Drink Drunk, but that's only part of it doc."

Doc, "I see," he said, then gave me what looked like a small bottle of water, and said, "this will take the toxins out of your body.  Drink it slowly.  By the time you are done you will feel better."

I said, "thank you, how is Owsee doing?"

Doc, "he should be out in a few minutes, then he should rest."

I drank the water, that seemed just a little bit salty, and thought about what the doc had said.  Maybe the translator got it wrong.  And if she is pregnant what will the children look like?  Four to six weeks, that's fast.  How many do they have at one time, and does she want me to be their father?  There should have been a warning on that med download.

I was sipping my whatever it was, and thinking about all of this, when Owsee came walking out with his new arms.

Owsee, "how do they look?  I need to buy new shirts for only two arms now, but I have my hands and fingers back, just like new."

I said, "you look taller."

Owsee, "yes, they straighten my spine; all those years dragging four arms around.  Now I can stand up straight.  And you my friend, how are you feeling?"

I said, "the doc gave me something to drink.  Detox water I think."

Owsee, "yes, that detox water works very well.  They should serve it in the bar, but it costs too much."

I said, "the doc didn't say anything about cost."

Owsee, "and he won't.  He knows you are my friend, and if it were not for me he would be rotting in a jail cell.  Overprescribing is against the law in some places on the fourth planet.  That's why he works here, I got him the contract.  Let's go back to the ship.  I need to rest, or at least that's what they tell me."

I said, "I'm feeling much better myself, this detox water is doing the job."

Owsee, "yes it's good stuff.  Do you mind stopping with me at the clothing store so I can get some new shirts?  Or is it too soon for you to see her again?"

I said, "I'll go in with you, I need some undergarments anyway."

Owsee, "what are undergarments?"

I said, "just as the name implies, they are the garments you were under something else."

Owsee, "why, are you cold?"

I said, "no, they just feel good to me.  And I may not always want to wear my cloak."

Owsee, "and you do not want to run around without clothes on.  I understand."

I said, "there is something I think you should know.  I think I may have gotten her pregnant."

Owsee, "good, she has been wanting to get pregnant for a long time now.  AI does not work on her kind.  She will be grateful to you for this.  I knew she liked you."

“Nibor gets a new suit”

We walked into the store together and Kitty said, "what can I do for you men today?"

Owsee, "I need three new shirts."

Kitty, "you have arms now.  Why did you do that?"

Owsee, "I wanted my arms back, that's all."

Kitty, "I never knew you lost them.  Help yourself.  And you, just tagging along, or can I get you something?"

I said, "I also need a shirt, and a pair of pants."

Kitty, "how about some no friction pants?"

Owsee, from across the room said, "you won't like them.  When you go to sit down you will fall on the floor."

Kitty, "how about some spray on clothes?"

Owsee, again from across the room said, "they stink after three days."

Kitty, "oh be quiet."

Owsee, "I'm just trying to help."

I said, "just something simple and inexpensive."

Kitty, "I know, Elvin ware."

Owsee, "the most costly thing you can buy."

Kitty, "oh will you shut up."

Then she said to me, "it's flexible, never needs cleaning, will stop a blade and some low energy weapons.  I have some in the back.  Let me see if it’s your size."

She went in the back to look and Owsee said to me, "she is trying to sell

you the most costly thing in the shop."

I said, "so far I have gotten a good deal from her."

Owsee, "yes, but now that she is pregnant she no longer needs you.  Elvin ware is good stuff for sure, but I can't even tell you how much it cost.  It's like buying battle gear, but it looked better."

Kitty came out with a pair of pants and a pull over shirt.

She said, "it only comes in this gold and silver weave, but this will fit you.  And it is near zero friction, but not so much that you will slide off your seat."

Owsee, "I found three shirts I want, how much do I owe you?"

Kitty, "you know your money is no good here, just take them."

And I said, "how much does this cost?"

Kitty said, "your credit is no good either, at least for today."

I said thank you, as she gave me a big smile.

Owsee, "let's take these things back to the ship.  I need to sit down for a bit."

Then Owsee and I left with our new clothes.

“A trip to the ice mines”

Owsee, "I have never seen her so generous.  I understand my free shirts, I set her up here, I always get free stuff.  But to just give you the Elvin ware?  If she had asked for 1000 credits I would say it was still a bargain.  I don't understand, unless she is picking you as a life mate.  What do you think about that?"

I said, "well, she seems pleasant enough, and passionate.  But if she is going to get pregnant every time I'm with her, or each four to six weeks, I'll need my own planet before long."

Owsee, "no, no, it does not work like that for her race.  She may be in heat two days a week, but she can only get pregnant once a year."

I said, "how many children do they have at a time?"

Owsee, "two or three, sometimes up to five.  They grow up very fast, and reach adulthood in a year, but only live to be about 45; most a good deal less."

I asked, "how old is Kitty?"

Owsee, "Kitty, so that's what you're calling her.  I don't know how old she is.  But she has been here for a good seven years.  You'll have to ask for yourself."

After getting to the ship, we went up to the front observation room.  He let out with a moan as he sat down and said, "it's good to have my arms back.  I should have done this years ago.  I'm more administrative these days than hands on.  I have one creature working for me, that calls himself, "Do do," that has 14 tentacles, and he can control each one to do something different all at the same time.  But he has a small brain.  If he goes a week without doing a certain kind of work, he forgets what he had learned; he just can’t retain it.  It's too bad that brain boosting chips don't work on his kind."

I said, "I've never heard of them, what is a brain boosting chip?"

Owsee, "for a small fortune, maybe 100,000 credits, you can have a chip put in your brain.  It makes you a lot smarter because you can remember everything you see or hear.  But most say they get bad headaches and it takes away your dreams.  I would not want to lose my dreams.  Sometimes I think they are the best part of my life."

I said that dreams are the inspiration for creativity, and that I would not abandon them for mere intellect.

Then Owsee said, "as long as I must sit for a bit, let's go see my ice mine, watch this."

And he flipped up a control panel from the table, then started to input commands.

He said, "separation sequence engage," and the room began to shake a bit.

He said, "hover mode on," and the whole room started to go up.

He said, "forward thrusters on," and we were on our way.

He said, "destination locked and that's the way we do it."

The observation room was now flying high above the ground, and on its way to the mine.  Two thirds of the front of the room and the top was all transparent.

I said that the view was amazing, and he said, "this is just technology, learning to read and write stories, that is amazing I think."

I said it was still a thrill, and he said, "yes, I enjoyed it myself.  And it is so easy to fly, it even has a voice interface.  With the help of your translator even you could fly it."

I thought it was interesting he would share that kind of information with me, considering he had only known me for less than a day.

We were now entering the dark side of the Moon, and he told me it would take another hour to get to his mine.

Owsee, "how about you show me how to read your language while we’re waiting to get there."

I said, "tell me why it is so important to you, when you could just record my stories on a data chip?"

He said, "my planet has a pulsar nearby.  Together with certain minerals in our soil, a wave from time to time runs through, and around my planet.  It's harmless to life forms but causes problems with data chips, they just don't last long.  Even ships that land there must leave within a day, or pull all their chips and put them in storage."

I said, "then what good will it do you to learn to write, how will you record it?"

Owsee said, "with art, we have a rich culture of art.  I can paint or print your words.  It will be a new art form, stories in print."

I said, "for a long time my people on earth used paper to write on."

Owsee, "what is this paper you speak of?"

I said, "it’s like this roll out view screen, you write on it but it has no chips."

Owsee, "I would like to find some of this paper to see how you do it."

I said, "I have not seen any paper in a long time.  Maybe one of the other races, around here that writes, has something like it."

Owsee, "maybe, but for now show me what you can."

So I showed him the alphabet and how to sound out words.  We practiced with it until we get to the mine.

The mining operation was enormous.  With large machines cutting pieces of the ice mountains apart, and ships coming and going.

Owsee, "these mountains are all ice, glaciers from long, long ago.  When I first moved here I bought the mining rights to them.  They were covered with 10,000 years of dust, and no one thought I would find anything of value.  The rest of the Moon has no precious metals or minerals.  But one day, while doing some blasting, I found that the mountains on the dark side of the Moon were made of ice.  The water on the fourth planet is all under guard, and they don't sell much of it.  They want to keep their world green.  I can't blame them.  After all, once it's gone, it's gone forever.  This makes water so costly around here they all come to me.  I have been selling water or ice for over 20 years.  And I have not sold half of it yet.  I bought the mining rights to the dark side of the Moon for 100,000 credits, a lot of money for me back then.  But I made it all back on my first shipment of ice.  After that, the moon became a main port for water, and to make repairs.  I supply the only water to the station at cost.  That is why went something like that creature, that tried to hit you in the bar, happens -- they get their head stopped in.  Even med lab could not put him back together.  I have had many offers to buy the operation from me.  But that would have changed things too much.  I started most of the shops here, and took a loss until they were on their feet, so to say.  When I sell the mine, the shops may find it cost too much to stay open for long.  I admit I will miss this place when I go, but there is no place like home."

The lights moved from one spot to another as the ships came and went.  I could not imagine this had been going on for 20 years, and they had only taken half or less.  As a laser cut through the glacier, the whole mountain lit up with different colors.  It was beautiful, but I felt sad to think one day it would all be gone.

I said to Owsee, "seeing all this reminds me of the lakes back home on earth.  We had so much water we would swim in it for fun."

Owsee, "you can swim?  Me too.  I even have a pool in my ship.  It's really just a water storage room, but you can swim in it.  When we get back I will show it to you.  Maybe we go for a swim."

I said I would like that.

After another pass over the mine, we headed back.  Owsee showed me how to fly.  He was right about how easy it was.  He pointed out where we were on the screen and the ships locator beacon.  The return controls were just point and click.  I tapped in the information and we were off, on our way back to the main part of the ship.

On the way back I worked the vowel sounds with him and tried to remember the rules.  He picked it up very fast, he had a good memory.  He was soon sounding out words, and writing short sentences.

When we got back the small ship turned around and docked automatically.

Then he said, "let's take a swim."

As we walked to the water storage area he would point to things like the wall, floor, or a door, and try to spell them.  He did very well.  When we got to the, so-called, pool.  I found it to be 50 feet wide, 30 feet deep and a good 100 feet long.

He said, "you can swim in your clothes if you want, but I don't like to walk around in wet things."

"Neither do I," I said.

So we stripped down and jumped in.  The water was not too cold, and felt great.  We splashed about and showed each other the different ways we could swim.  Then he said, "watch this," and he climbed up a stairway to a platform 20 feet above the pool and jump off, going in feet first.  Not to be outdone, I went up to the platform, and dove in headfirst; then swam underwater to him.

He said, "I don't think I will try that."

We then sat on the side of the pool for a time and talked about the places on our own planets where we had been swimming.

I asked him if he had a towel, and he said, "what is a towel?"

I told him it was something you used to dry off with.  He said, "come with me."  And we went to a corner of the room where a 5 foot hose hung from the wall.  He hit a button and warm air blew down on us.

He said, "I can make it stronger."

And he turned a knob until we almost fell down.

Then he said, "I think we are dry," and turned it off.  "Was that a towel?"  He asked.

"No," I said, "that was a blow dry."

He said, "I have many handy things on this ship.  I will teach you about all of them, as we have time."

We were putting our clothes back on when he said, "I think you have already noticed that in the waste disposal rooms they are locked on storage."

I said, "yes I saw that.  So I guess you're not hooked up to the stations waste systems."

He said, "no, I never got around to it, I'll have to do a purge after I take off.  However, for now we need to just leave the control on storage.  As I teach you more about my ship, I will need to give you override control.  So, remember not to purge the system until we are in space.  Or many years of waste will be dumped on the station.  I am not sure how deep it will be, but it sure would be a stinking mess."

I said, "I sure would not want to be responsible for that."

We then walked about the ship as he showed me different workstations and crew quarters.  There were 20 separate rooms of different sizes for the crew.

He said, "take your pick, I never used them."

He talked about how bad it would be here after he sells the mine.  And that some of the people will want to go with him, even if it was just to be dropped off somewhere else.

He said, "I have been thinking about it for years.  The ice mines will only last another 20 years anyway, and then there will not be much of a reason for anyone to come here.  Everyone knows that.  And I think I can make a better deal if I sell now rather than later.  But it really depends on you."

"Why me?"  I said.

Owsee, "I have collected many stories during my stay here, but I think you could be the key to much more if you are as good as I know you are.  I will make you a bargain.  Keep teaching me and come with me to my home world; it's only three days away with this big ship.  If you don't like my world I will give you the ship I confiscated and all the supplies you can carry.  If you do like my planet, I think in less than a year or so I can guarantee you ownership of the big ship.  What have you got to lose?"

I said, "it sounds good to me, but it still seems like a dream.  I've been lucky a time or two in my life, but something always comes up to knock me down.  What the hell, I may as well give it a try."

Owsee, "good, let's go to the Drink Drunk and celebrate.  I'll get my bag and meet you at the airlock by the receiving bay."

When I got to the receiving bay I saw a flashing light, indicating there was a delivery while we were gone.  I opened the door and saw five barrels of the orange rum from the Drink Drunk.  One had a tap on it but was still full; it was not the one we were drinking from.

Then Owsee showed up, and looking at them said, "look, the labels on them are a medical supplies seal.  The bartender is a smart one I think.  We shall need to thank him."

“Back to the Drink Drunk”

As we walked along the docks Owsee got a call on his com-badge and started telling workers what to do.  As we passed one worker, with a laser torch that was cutting a piece of metal, my cloak brushed too close to his work and was cut a bit.

The worker shouted out something that my translator interpreted as an apology, and an accusation of blame.  I looked at the cut in my cloak, which was Silver side out, and it healed itself in seconds.  But not fast enough to prevent the worker from seeing the silver/gold of my Elvin ware.  The worker then took a step back, made a very gracious gesture with his hand, and said, through the translator, "forgiveness."

I only looked at him for a moment before just walking on.  The man looked at Owsee for a moment, then went back to work.

Just before we reached the door to the station I could see two workers, about 50 feet away, arguing about something.  I sort of wished I could hear what they were talking about, and the ear piece, that I had forgotten I had on, gave me a translation.  Something about the wrong tool for the job.

As we walked into the station I mentioned it to Owsee and he said that all I needed to do was to concentrate, and I would be able to hear anything I could see, no matter how far it was.  He said I could also get instant translation as someone was talking, just by looking at them.

Just before we went into the Drink Drunk, we stopped as Owsee pointed at one shop then another, and so forth, telling me what kind of store they were and what they sold.

Then he said, as we turned to go inside, "but we will see them all later I think.  Right now, I feel like I need to sit down again.  I think the swim got the best of me."

We walked to the same table we had the last time we were at the bar.

Then Owsee shouted out, "owner, a picture of ale."

The short orange man brought us a picture of ale and two mugs, then asked, "Will there be anything else?"

Owsee, "do you still have that keg of rum we were drinking from?"

Barkeeper, "yes, I held that one back, I'll get it for you."

Owsee, "and some jumbo sticks."

As the bartender left Owsee put his bag between us and opened it up just a bit, then said, "look what I have brought, fire powder.  It's only about 10% of the bag the med lab gave me, but more than we need I think."

I said, "so that's why you ordered the jumbo sticks."

Owsee, "I also like to eat them, they are a nice treat."

The bar keeper came back with the barrel and said, "I'll get you some glasses and the jumbo sticks."

Then Owsee said, "just a minute, take this bag and cut it into three bags."

No problem, the man said.  And he quickly returned with two glasses, some jumbo sticks, and three equal bags of the fire powder.  Then he asked what the powder was.

Owsee said, "it's firewater powder.  Here, this bag is yours."

Bar keeper, "what, so I can make my own firewater?"

Owsee, "check it out."

And with that he tossed one bag to me and opened the other.  Then he put a pinch on the table and snorted it up with a jumbo stick, and said, "oh yeah, this is the good stuff from med lab."

Bartender, "this is med lab grade?  Let me try that."  Then he opened his bag, put a pinch on the table, and snorted it up, saying, "oh yeah, that's the good stuff all right.  Thank you."

Owsee, "no problem, enjoy yourself."

Then I said to the man, "I hear we cannot pronounce your name.  But is there another name we can call you?"

Bar owner, "Owsee, tell him how many years I have had this bar."

Owsee, "about 14, I think."

Bar owner, "and in all those years, no one has ever asked me what I would like to be called, not even Owsee."

Owsee, "I'm not big on names.  My name is only the day I was born."

I said, "well, I don't want to just keep on calling you barkeeper, or hey bartender.  You own this place and deserve some respect."

Bar owner, "respect, you see, he thinks I should be respected."

Owsee, "of course you should, everyone deserves some respect."

Owner, "in my language, barkeeper is the same as slave or worker.  But there is a title word we use in front of our names, that means Mr. or sir.  But without the name means, lord of the manor.  It is pronounced, "Goo da wa."

I said, "Goo da wa, I like that.  Thank you for the service, and the delivery of the rum Goo da wa."

Goo da wa, "thank you for a name."  And he went back to the bar.

Then Owsee reached over to the barrel and drew two large glasses of rum and said, "what shall we drink to?"

I said, "how about to knowing people's names."

Owsee, "to knowing people's names."  And we drank.

I turn the music on, and to something soothing, as Owsee nodded his head in approval.  We did more lines of fire powder and put some in our rum.

“Blue goo two”

Then there was the sound of breaking glass at the front of the bar.  It was done just to get Goo da wa's attention, by a large, hairy purple beast.  I tuned in my earpiece to hear what was going on.  She was the mate of the one that died, and was in a very bad mood, to say the least.

Out of one ear, I could hear Owsee saying, "she is going to kill somebody."  And out the other, her asked Goo da wa about her mates remains; of which Goo da wa said they always incinerate the bodies.

She wanted to know what happened to his ship.  He replied it was impounded for overdue repair bills.

At that point I reached under the table and turned the gem on my finger until the small light came on.

"Who has the ship?"  She screamed at him.

He reached for his shock stick, but she grabbed him with one hand around his throat, and the other hand got hold of the shock stick.  With a flick of her fingers she snapped the stick in two, and pulled him up on the bar asked who had the ship.

I stood up and yelled at her, "I do!  And it’s not for sale."

She released Goo da wa, drew a knife, and threw it at my chest.  The blade stopped cold, and fell to the floor.  She reached for an energy weapon and I raised my hand, then gave the air a good push toward her.  She flew 10 feet, and hit the door with her chest split open.  Then the door opened, letting her body fall mostly outside, and the guards drag it away.

I sat back down and Goo da wa brought me the gun she was going to use on me.  I told him to keep it, that he may need it more than I, but the knife I put under my cloak.

Owsee said, "that was a brave thing you did for Goo da wa, I was not sure you had it in you."

I said, "having it in you is not a problem, letting it out is not a problem, it's knowing when to stop that is sometimes hard."

Owsee, "I understand that.  Sometimes I think I may have gone too far myself, from time to time.  But let's not talk about that now, look what else I have brought with me.  My pipe and some of that weed plant to smoke.  Don’t worry about what just happened."

So we lit up a bowl, and poured ourselves shots of rum.

Then the bartender, Goo da wa, came over and asked if we had any extra weed plan we would sell.

At that Owsee said, "hold out your hand."

Owsee then reached into his bag and pulled out a large handful of buds, and put them in Goo da wa's hand.

"How much should I charge?"  He asked.

Owsee said, "whatever is the going price, and give the credits to my teacher here.  He could use some more walking around money."

And with that, Goo da wa went back behind the bar and dealt with the people that wanted something to smoke.  Before long, the whole place was one big cloud of high smoke.

Then Goo da wa turn on the overhead fan that sucked all the smoke out.

Owsee said, "I hope that cloud don't float over the docks, or all my workers will no longer feel like working."

We laughed at the thought of it then Owsee said, "I notice that the gem in your ring still glows a bit even when it is off.  It's kind of hypnotic.  And it goes well with those red and black gloves.  By the way, how do they feel?"

I said, "they are so thin I don't even notice I have them on.  And the hole the shopkeeper put in the finger seems to seal itself around the gem perfectly."

Owsee, "just like the Elvin ware, they have a bit of nano-tech in them.  You got a good deal from Kitty.  Are you going to ask her if she wants to be your mate?"

I said, "I'm not sure, what do you think?"

He said, "I think she is one hell of a woman.  She would make you a good mate."

I said, "you're right, I should talk to her."

Owsee, "go, go do it now."

I said, "but I would need to slip past the guards.  I don't want to try that just now, after what happened.  They can see her shop and know I’m in here.  I just don’t need any more trouble."

Owsee, "then call her, ask her to come over here.  Tell her you have something important to ask her."

I said, "I would feel more comfortable if it came from you."

Owsee, "you want me to negotiate for you?"

I said, "something like that."

Owsee, "no problem, I can do it with ease, and if she turns down the deal it's not like she is turning down you."

So he called her on the intercom, and asked her to come over.  She came right away and said, "what is so important?"

Owsee, "I’m negotiator for a proposal.  Do you want to be life mate with this human?"

She looked at me, then smiled and said, "yes, but not until the children are born.  Until then, he can be "protector with rights."

Owsee, "okay, it’s a deal, you can go back to work."

She smiled at me and left with a bit of a skip in her walk.  I asked Owsee, “what is this, "protector with rights," business."

Owsee, "it means she will go where you go, and you make sure she is safe.  She will not want to have sex until the children are born.  But it is well worth the wait I think.  Oh yes, everything she owns you may use.  After she delivers you are life mate, and it all goes to you.  However, you must provide for her and the children.  I think that just about sums it up.  There is nothing you must sign, there is no contract.  If you ever want to leave her, you just go.  But I tell you this, she will be faithful to you and never leave, that is their way."

I said, "well we have a shopkeeper going with us."

Owsee, "yes, and I'm sure Goo da wa will come with us as well."

I asked how long it would be before we left.  He said he would have to sell the mine first, but that it should not take long.  He would try to give everyone a few days notice.

Owsee, "after the mine is sold they will most likely turn the water to the station off, to get rid of everyone.  They have been trying to shut us down for a long time now.  They want the work to go to the planet.  Anyone that does not go with us will most likely go there.  So when I leave I will not feel bad that the blast will take out half the station.  Because there will be no one left.  But I don't want to think about it now.  Right now we celebrate."

I said I was getting hungry and Owsee asked Goo da wa for two of his very good meat sandwiches.  When he brought them over Owsee asked him if he could be ready to leave with two days notice.

Goo da wa , "I can do it in one, if I have help.  Are we leaving soon?"

Owsee, "I need to sell the mine first.  But that will not take long."

Goo da wa, "you can sell it in a day, if you don't care what happens to the station when you leave."

Owsee said he didn't care because everyone would be gone anyway.  Goo da wa said he would start packing, and went back to work.

Owsee, "that's two going with us.  He is the best bartender I have ever known, and he is loyal.  I will build a bar just for him, so I can feel safe there."

Then Goo da wa came back and gave me a credit chip for the smoke he sold.  Then he handed me a beautiful pipe with white dragons on it, that was encrusted with many precious stones on a gold finish, and said, “this is for you.”

I said it was beautiful, but much too valuable to give to me.

He said, "something only has value if you can buy or sell it.  I think this is worth much less than my life, but I need to start somewhere."

"Thank you," I said, as he went back to the bar.  Still a bit stunned by such a luxurious gift.

Owsee said, "let's take a look at that chip."

He put it in a slot in the table, and it read 1000.  He handed it to me and said, "there is no way he got that much for those buds, not by a long shot.  And that pipe, I have never seen a better one, it must be worth a small fortune.  It has a lot of stones in it, I think you have made a friend.  Look at this, it has a cover that opens and closes with a touch.  And if you squeeze the sides of the dragon it spits out fire to light, very clever."

I said, "yes it's a very nice pipe, let's see how it smokes."

So I filled it up and lit it.  Then sat back feeling like some kind of a king, smoking a jewel encrusted pipe.  At that moment, I could not imagine life getting much better.

I then said, "would you like to hear another poem?"

Owsee, "I'm always ready to learn another poem."

I said, "I have a short one for you."

"When Dragon's breath hath touch my soul, experienced I the metaphysical.  And when I seek poetic pause, shadows write upon the walls.  That dark secrets float on the brightest days, so the faint of heart will not dismay.  When within their minds the true dose fall, what the shadows wrote upon the walls."

Owsee, "yes, I think this one has deep meaning my friend.  You never disappoint me.  I hope I can remember all your stories until I can write them down."

I said, "you told me you need to put chips in protective storage on your planet.  Could you build a room to work in, for them?"

Owsee, "only if it is underwater.  Small chips are all right, but you cannot put much data on one.  That's why we must memorize all our stories, and that is why they are so valuable to us."

I said, "so I take it the electronic store will not be going with us."

Owsee, "no, most of his things would have no use on my world."

I said, "he has a lot of things in his shop.  Can he moved in two days?"

Owsee, "his shop is really just two large storage modules.  He can have a carryall pick him up at any time.  I don't know where he will go."

I asked, "what about the diner you told me about?"

Owsee, "she will probably go back to the fourth planet.  That's where she is from.  The diner is owned by me anyway, and it is on my ship's side of the station.  There will not be much left to it after we take off.  It was never much of a place anyway.  Just food for the miners and those that stop here.  Goo da wa makes a better meat sandwich I think."

I said, "what about the other places?"

Owsee, "there will be no one to sell to when the repair work closes down.  The administration building, and the guards quarter's, are on the other side of the station.  They made us build them just so they could tax us.  I wish they were on the ship's side so I could see them burn when we take off."

I said, "I never much cared for guards myself.  But without them, who would drag the bodies away?"

Owsee, "that's right!  That's all they are good for."

I told Owsee I would like to get kitty a ring, a symbol of my pledge to be her mate.

He said, "well if you are going to get it here, you should do it soon.  Before they start to pack up.  Word gets around fast here.  As soon as I tell my men not to start anything that will take more than two days, the word will be all over the station.  But I do not think she likes rings.  It has something to do with keeping her hands clean.  A necklace with a pendant maybe.  After she has the children, she will ask for a collar to show others she is your mate; and you will need a symbol of your house on it."

I said, "does the jewelry shop just sell, or can they make something for me?"

Owsee, "they can make things as well, but it could take a day or two.  You have something in mind?"

"Yes," I said, "something special."

Owsee, "well then, you should go now, get them started on it right away."

I said, "what about the guards?"

Owsee, "as long as we are leaving anyway, I will tell you the secret of this place, Goo da wa has a backdoor.  No one else knows about it, and I must tell you that your cloak does not make you invisible.  When you are walking people can see a slight change in the background.  So I think you go out the back.  I will show you."

So we went into the waste disposal room and he said, "wave the back of your hand over this part of the wall."

I did it, and the wall opened to the back hallway.

Owsee, "come back the same way, we don't want to tip our hand to the guards."

So I stepped out and the wall closed behind me.  After slipping  down the hall to the odds and ends store, I described what I wanted made and asked how long it would take for them to do the job.  They said less than a day, maybe just a few hours.  I showed them the com-link and asked them to call me when it was ready.  She flashed it with a scanner, to get the code, and said she would just beep me.  I saw a nice chain that was just the right length to hang my pipe on, around my neck, and asked her about it.  She picked it up and said that I had a good eye.  It started to pulse with light, then stopped.  She said it was made out of a composite of gold and a crystal that picks up static electricity, and would repel sand flies.  It felt light for its size.  I asked how much, and she said that since I had made such a special order, the chain with free.  I thanked her, and went back to the bar through the secret door.

There was something moving around the sides of the wall, cleaning as it went, and another one on the floor that bounced off my boot as I came in.  Someone had turned on the cleaning robots.  They were no bigger than my hand, but could get the job done, given time.

I went out to our table and sat down.

Owsee seemed to be enjoying something that sounded like two rocks being hit together, and a rainstorm in the background.

He said, "do you like this?"

I said, "it's better than some things I have heard."

He said, "it is the thanks giving ritual for rain, practice only in the remote desert areas of my planet, but it's not for everyone.  How did things go at the store?"

I said, "I got this chain, and put my order in for the collar.  She said less than a day, and that she would beep me."

Owsee, "not bad, they do good work there.  And this chain, that's a good one.  It keeps away sand flies, and looks nice at the same time.  You have a good eye for the best of things.  With that kind of taste, it is good you will be rich soon.  I spend my time and credits on stories no one has heard before.  This will make me rich back home.  I have been collecting stories for 35 years.  I think I have enough to last the rest of my life now.  But don't get me wrong, I like nice things as well, like spice dew."

He then asked Goo da wa to bring us some.

I said, "how would you like to hear another poem?"

Owsee, "yes, yes another poem, I would love to hear one."

So I said,

"Dimensions, of cosmic forces, drift like clouds, stampede like horses.

Over my imagination, with sinister expectations.

Visions of transformed prime, invade the dreams of conscious mind.

Specters that were yet unknown, challenge authority of my throne.

Cloud like shadows as the wind, seek a dwelling place within.

But like storms passing by, leaving remnants of the sky;

their memories still with me, pass them on I do with thee.

Embraced the voids that you find, to set free intrepid mines."

I asked if he liked it.

Owsee, "it is very deep, and could be a reflection of some of the things you have gone through.  And I do like it, I also respect it.  It's a reminder of what we go through in life.  If there are many more like you on your planet it must be a rich place to live."

I said, "there are so many like me that their books could be stacked higher than your mountains.  Your whole race could not read them all in a lifetime, and we keep writing more every day!"

Owsee, "a rich world indeed, it is a shame it is so far away."

I said, "yes, it took me over 30 years just to get this far out."

Owsee, "you have been traveling for that long?"

I said, "well, I stopped to work from time to time.  Mostly on ships, that we're going somewhere new.  You could probably make the trip in five years with your ship."

Owsee, "you must have a lot of stories about your travels."

I said, "every day has its story, and every hour it's adventure.  How about another poem?"

Owsee, "yes, please.  Teach me another, my teacher of poems."

I said, "this one is called, "intrepid souls."

“Faces of time, a clocks reflection.  Spectrums of light aid our perception.  Metaphysic dissertations, may not justify relations, between quantum physics and forgotten lore.  Darkness clouds the state of mind, swung from what comes behind.  Until light of dawn has come, within the consciousness of one.  Disperse the shadows of your mind, truth uncovered left behind.  Logic fights the insurrection, battling our own reflection.  For tomorrow if we see, life is but a memory.  All we know is all we are, intrepid souls can take you far."

Owsee, "yes intrepid souls, that is us I think, very good.  I do not completely understand all of it but I like it.  And now we drink spice dew."

We both took a drink and whoosh, I was off.  I tried to concentrate and see what those at the end of the bar were doing.  But I was back in a flash.  I took a gulp of it this time and direct my mind to kitty's shop.  She was packing up odds and ends, mostly small things.  Then she picked up a belt, and put it around her neck while looking in the mirror.  I could see a smile on her face.  Then I was pulled back again, and there were a lot of pretty colors.  I was going to take my third drink, but started thinking about how Kitty was over there packing by herself.  I told Owsee how I felt and he said, "it's better to leave her alone for a while, she has a lot to think about."

So I took my third drink and flew around the moon to the dark side, and watched the lasers cut into the mountain of ice.  I stayed there and watched the light show until I returned to my body.  Everything around me seemed to be in slow motion for a short time, then it was normal again.

I did not feel like doing any more of the spice dew just then.  So I sipped on ale and listened to Owsee as he talked about the kind of place he would like.  He had been saving seeds for a garden, and was sure some of what he would plant would catch on with his people.  I'm not sure how many hours we sat there, just talking, but my com-link started to beep.

"That was fast," Owsee said, "I'll call them and have it brought here."

I just nodded my head, and before long a little girl came in and went up to Goo da wa.  She asked for me and he pointed toward our table.  She then came over, and handing it to me said, "here's your pretty necklace sir."  I said thank you and she ran out.

Owsee said, "I'm surprised they sent the girl.  It is not safe for children in a place like this."

He then asked if he could get a close look at what I had them make.

I handed it to him and he said, "I see it is adjustable in the back, that's good.  Two white dragons, one on either side, and this one comes off to be a brooch.  What are they made out of?"

I said, "pearl rock, it picks up all the colors."

Owsee, "and the rest of it is a gold and silk weave with gemstones all around.  This must of cost you a lot."

I said, "only 700 credits."

Owsee, "only 700 he says, well the stones in it are probably worth at least that much.  And the workmanship is very good.  You got another great deal I think, Kitty is going to love it.  And the white dragon, it is now your family crest?"

I said, "that's what I’m going to use."

Owsee, "well I can say one thing about you, you buy the best, no cheap stuff for you."

I said, "everything I bought I can sell for as much, or more, than I paid for it."

Owsee, "yes, I'm sure you can.  You got a good deal each time."

I then said, "I have a poem I am going to give to kitty.  Would you like to hear it?"

Owsee, "of course, I am always ready to listen."

I said, "I call this one, "know I not."

"Know I not what you may find, if gaze ye in upon my mind.

Be madness, lust or wisdom root, each has a part of the pursuit.

Clear, must each love oneself, and leaves not self praise on a shelf.

Yet, it is true that I do find some comfort from another's mind.

While flesh does touch, and breath is near, too easy love seems to appear.

Be what we’re taught, or how we feel, our soul to mind shall sure reveal.

If true, so words that I share here, passions soul does cling near.

This breath I give that you may take, some sweet poetic dream to make."

Owsee, "very good.  If she was not already pledged to you, I think you could win her over with those words.  You have a way of giving words feelings, or is it feelings words.  Either way I hope you don't mind if I share this poem with a few thousand people.  I know you said you were giving it to kitty, but once I hear something I just want to share it."

I said, "words are like birds.  They look good just there, but they need to fly free."

Owsee, "nothing is free on my world, not even words."

“Goodbye tech guy”

Then the tall man from the electronics store came out of the back room, and placed what looked like two tuning forks on the table.

He said, "put the small one in the access port of your translator, and the big one is for a small ship, no larger than type 5.  These work like white noise, they will protect against chip malfunctions.  They are the only ones I have, or will make.  Goodbye."

Then he went back out the way he came in.

I said to Owsee, "I thought we were the only ones that knew about the back door."

Owsee, "nothing stays a secret from him for long.  But I have never seen him just give away something for nothing, before, and this is important.  This means that your translator, with the extra chip in it, will still work on my world.  And you can fly around in a small ship without taking the chips out in between flights."

We then heard a rumbling sound, and metal on metal, then the sound of a ship, a big one, leaving.

Owsee said, "I don't believe it.  That’s the sound of a carry -off.  He didn't even wait for the base to close down."

I said, "you mean he moved the shop that fast?"

Owsee, "I mean there is a big hole in the station, just down the hall, and his shop is in outer space by now.  Where he will go, I do not know."

“The offer”

Then Goo da wa came over and told Owsee there was an incoming transmission for him.  Owsee said to put it thru to the table, and he moved a few things so he could see.  Moments later there was the face of an android, looking up to us, saying, "corporate mining has an offer for you."

Owsee said, "what number are you?"

The Corporate Mining Android said, "I am 401."

Owsee said, "I remember when you were 203."

The C.M.A. said, "some are hard to deal with."

Owsee, "if you keep losing androids that way they are going to cut your pay.  From whom did you hear I was selling?"

C.M.A. "our sources are confidential."

Owsee, "confidential?  He just blasted off from here leaving a big hole in the station."

The C.M.A. "we are not concerned with the station, what about the contract?"

Owsee, "what are you offering?"

C.M.A. "the same as last year."

Owsee, "last year's offer was a joke, I will never settle for that!"

C.M.A. "what do you suggest?"

Owsee, "last year's prize and half again.  No monthly percentage, but I do get star gate jump rights free of charge, for myself and my friend, to any gate you have a contract to for the next 20 years.  And the credits must be up front."

C.M.A. "I'll need to get back to you on that."

Owsee, "take your time, I'm not going anywhere."

Then the picture went off and Owsee poured us mugs of rum, and said, "now we have fun."

We both drank deep from the mugs and he laid out four lines of fire power on the table where the C.M. android’s face was.  We each did a line before the C.M.A. called back.

He said, "we can agree on the use of the star gates, with some conditions, but only half of the credits upfront.  And what is that on our screen?"

Owsee, "I'm doing lines of fire powder on your face."

And with that he snorted up his second line and said, "call me back when you are ready to deal."  And Owsee turned him off.

Then Owsee said, "open your cloak so he can see your Elvin ware, and your pipe.  Then when I turn the screen back on you lean over and do a line as he is trying to talk."

A light came on requesting picture.  Owsee turned it on and the android said, "we can only," and he was cut short as I leaned over and snorted the line, then sat back.

He then said, "I thought that powder was illegal."

Owsee said, "nothing is illegal here.  That is why you don't even dare to send your droid here, I would make it 402.  Now you tell me what I want to hear, or a very large piece of ice will be floating toward your spaceship!"

The screen went off from the CMA’s side.

Owsee, "that's why those corporate types don't go out into space, too many accidents, they just send their androids.  Right now he is either talked it over with his boss, or moving his ship farther away from the moon.  Hey, do you want to take a look?"  And he pointed toward the spice dew.  Then said, "I need to be here if they called back soon, but you can go.  It has not been that long ago that you did some, I bet you can make it in just one shot".

I said, "what am I looking for?"

Owsee, "a cylinder with a spire on it."

So I took a good gulp of the spice dew, and set my mind on looking around in space, near the moon, for the ship.  I could not see it at first, then I spotted it hiding behind a large ship, that was waiting to go down for water.  The cylinder then drop down, heading for the moon.  My mind went with it almost all the way to the station, then I was pulled back to my body again.  It took a few moments before I could get the words out, "he’s coming here."

"Here?" Owsee said, "they only send one in person when they think it is time to sign a contract."

Moments later the android walked in the door.  He looked at everybody, then walked over to us and sat a small bag on the table.  Then he slipped a chip into a slot on the side of the table, and said, "just as you requested."

Symbols came on the screen but Owsee did not look at them.

The CMA said, "here are your passes for the star gates."  And he laid down two small black pads, about 3 inches long, and said, "if I could just have your DNA gentleman."

Owsee said, "the credits first."

The android opened the bag and pulled out a 5 inch wide crystal ball with a chip in the center.  He gave it a tap, then some lines with dots on them started to move around the crystal ball.

Owsee said, "the access code."

The android said, "your DNA on the contract and the gate passes first."

Owsee spit on the contract, then spit on the gate pad.  The CMA checked both and said that will do.  Then handed Owsee a small silver disc which he slipped into the top of the credit crystal and said, "yes, yes now that's what I'm talking about."

The CMA then turned to me and said, "your DNA please."

I wet my lips, and gave the pad a kiss without taking my eyes off his.

Then handed it back to him, he said, "always a pleasure doing business with a gentleman."

Owsee said, "wait a minute, transmit the contract from here.  I don't want you to switch it on us."

The CMA said, "not a problem," and Owsee watched closely as he did it.

Then the android said, "there you go sir, now it is in the system."

Owsee, "what about the people?"

CMA, "what about them sir?"

Owsee, "they should be given time to move."

CMA, "they can have all the time they want.  We do not care about the station at all.  We have no contract to supply water to the station.  The mine will close within 48 hours.  We will post guards.  This is all the information I have about is moon."

Owsee, "before you leave, will you're transmit three words to your headquarters for me?"

CMA, "yes sir, what are they?"

Owsee, "four zero two."

CMA, "they have been transmitted sir."

The corporate mining android then turned and walked to the front door, as Owsee gave Goo da wa, a nod and point signal.

As the door opened Goo da wa blasted the CMA in the back, which sent parts of him all over the hallway.  Then the door closed without a word from anyone.

I looked at Owsee and said, "remind me never to piss you off."

Owsee said, "I didn't do it for me, I did it for all the workers that just got screwed by the corporation."

Owsee then said to Goo da wa, "put me on the station and dock PA."

Then he said, "attention, attention, the mine now belongs to the corporation.  It will close within 48 hours.  There will be no more water for the station, plan accordingly, that is all."

Owsee then slipped the crystal into its small bag, and that one into the bag he always had on his side, and said, "the safest place is right here I think."

Two men, left the bar right off.

I said, "how soon do you want to take off?"

Owsee, "not until every last one has left or has a ride.  The station will stop getting water as soon as they can send another CMA to shut the mine down.  They will not send a real person, not after the message I just sent them.  But right now, the only thing that is running through every ones mind is not to be left behind; and with every ship that leaves their chance of going gets smaller.  We, on the other hand, have lots of food and water, no one knows how much I have.  The miners will leave with the transports, as soon as they are told about the sale.  Anyone else that needs a ride, like my workers or a shopkeeper, I'll take myself.  We can drop them off on the fourth planet so they can find work or transport somewhere else.  No one gets left behind".

I said, "what if all your workers bug-out, before all the ships that need work on them are ready to go?"

Owsee tapped his com-badge and asked his Forman for a status report on the needed repairs.

He listened for a few moments and said, "okay, tell the rest of them not to worry about water or getting off this rock, they still have me.  And don't take on any more work unless it can't fly."

He then called the station management and told them he had just closed the docks, and to please transmit, "Port closed," on repeat.

Then turning to me he said, "well out of 15, I still have nine workers that are staying until the ships that need work on them are ready to go; which will be within 12 hours, if the work goes well.  Five of my men have already secured flights with the captain of one of the ships, so that just leaves four dockworkers that may need a ride."

I asked, "how long will it take for them to send a CMA to the mine?"

Owsee, "it depends.  The last one came by probe, so the ship is still out there somewhere, and most of the time they have at least two androids on board.  So it could be here now, or in two days, why do you ask?"

I said, "I'm just thinking about the miners."

Owsee, "don't worry about them, the CM treats them very well.  They will all be offered jobs and transportation.  I was thinking of giving them a heads-up about the sale, but it's better if it comes from the corporation, and the Mining Guild.  They have laws about interfering with miners moving from one job to the next, the guild has its fingers in everything.  Here, have some more rum."  He said as he poured a glass for me.

Just then the doctor came in and said, "my aid and I have been in contact with the med office and doctors guild.  They told us they could put us in a program on the planet, but we need to get there ourselves.  Oh, and they don't care about what we leave behind.  So I was thinking maybe you could take some of the things in med lab, and give them to a town that could use them.  Also if it's not too much trouble, we would like a ride."

Owsee, "I would be more than happy to give you a ride, and as for the stuff in your lab, I know of just the right place to give it to."

Dr., "thank you.  We will begin to move things as soon as we can."

Owsee, "do you have any more of that firewater powder?"

Doctor, "yes we do, I will have a bag sent over to you."

Owsee said thank you, then the doctor talked to Goo da wa for a moment before leaving.

Goo da wa went to the front door and said, "look, the guards are still gone, they never stay away this long.”

"Owsee, "administration has declared this to be a closed port.  There will be no more guards or sanitation police.  Everyone is just looking for a way off this rock, as fast as they can."

I said, "do you think you will be safe while I go over to see Kitty?"

Owsee, "sure, sure, I have Goo da wa to watch out for me, and I can put up the security screening if I want."

I said, "okay, I'll be back in just a little bit."

I stood up, and took a deep breath, then went to the shop.  Kitty was still packing, and I told her there was no hurry.

She said, "no sense in waiting, I'm not going to do any more business with everyone going."

Then she turned around, from stuffing a barrel with clothes, as I said, "as long as you are packing, put this somewhere."  And I handed her the new collar.

She said, "this is for me?"

I nodded yes and she said, "why it's the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.  And this dragon comes off for you to wear, to symbolize the empty spot that is only filled when we are together.  It will be our coat of arms, our house seal.  We shall be those two white dragons in spirit, together we will take on a world."

I said that I hoped it would not be too much of a fight.  We talked, for about half an hour or so, while packing some things.  Then I told her I needed to be with Owsee, to make sure he was and would be safe.  She said that Owsee could take care of himself, but the packing would go faster if she did it by herself.  I told her not to work too hard at it, and left with a grin on my face.

As I was going back to the Drink Drunk, I saw Goo da wa on a ladder, taking down the sign.

He said, "I don't know what I'm going to call the next bar, but I'm going to keep this anyway; something to remember this place by."

The bar was thinning out, just five still drinking.  I walked over to Owsee and stood next to the screen for a moment, then I tapped on the screen to get his attention.

The screen went down, and I sat as he said, "I guess I took a little nap, it's been a long day.  Well, it's always a long day around here.  The moon's rotation keeps one side in darkness, and the other in daytime.  So it's been a 35 year, long day.  When I first got here, I had 10 hours on and 10 off.  Then I had those damn extra arms put on.  It changed me, I could not sleep anymore, just nod off from time to time.  Now that my body is getting back to normal I think I will sleep again.  Maybe I will start to have nice long dreams.  Hey, look at what the boys from med lab brought us."

There between us was a large stack.  "It's a 30 pound bag," I said, "is that firepower?"

Owsee, "yes, and he said there is more that he is putting on the ship.  I asked them how they came to have so much of it, and he said they used it in a bath for burn victims.  I was going to give some to these guys at the bar, but then I decided to wait for you.  Just the thought of so much drugs can make some go bad."

He then yelled out to Goo da wa to bring him a clean mug.  Goo da wa came over with a fresh clean mug for him, and one for me.  Owsee dipped one mug into the large bag of powder and handed it to him saying, "tell the boys at the bar I'm sorry for the repair delays, and give them this for me."

Goo da wa, "I'm sure they will appreciate it."

Then he took the mug full of powder to them, and they all turned and thanked him.

Owsee yelled out, "party on boys!"

I said to Owsee, "don't mind me worrying, but is it safe to leave the ship open so med lab can load it?"

Owsee, "I'm no fool, friend Nibor, with my remote I have only opened the loading bay compartment one through three.  There is no way to get past the compartment without a cutting torch, and then you still cannot take the ship with it on lockdown."

I said, "sorry, I know you have everything under control.  I just worry about things like that."

Owsee, "you have a right to, it's your future as well as mine.  Oh by the way, while you were gone they dropped another corporate android at the mine.  He told them to shut down and report to him for negotiations on a new work contract, and work location.  I told the foreman to finish loading the last transport before shutting down.  And if the CMA don't like it, to drop a mountain on him.  I think he may just do that anyway, ha ha."

I said, "does that mean the water will be shut off?"

Owsee, "it's not that simple.  Our water comes from the purification plant after it has been melted, and then there is a large pipe to the station.  They could cut it off at the plant but we would still get water for a month.  But if he shuts down the heating coil in the pipe, well, it would freeze up in a day.  But none of that matters, this is a dead station.  They may never reopen this place.  The people are all that matter now.  Talking about people, how did she like her new collar?"

I said she loved it.

Owsee, "I knew she would, it's a nice piece of work.  Is she still packing?"

I said, "yes, mainly small things.  I told her there was plenty of time, but she said, "there’s not going to be any more business anyway, so there is no need to put it off."

Owsee, "she will not stop until every last thing is on the ship, I know her, that's the way she is."

I said, "I feel bad about leaving her to do all that packing, though she did said it would go faster if she just did it herself, but I felt you may still need someone extra to watch your back."

Owsee, "I'm fine, but it's better to let her alone anyway.  That way there will be none of that where is this, or where is that, to deal with later."

I said, "you're probably right."

And Owsee said of course he was right, with a short laugh, and a "drink up my friend, a whole new world awaits us."

"I'll drink to that," I said, "and give you another poem."

"When four to six grand years found old, life’s story destine, be foretold.

That truth is myth and myth in fact, we all may see that we know jack.

The world is flat or so I'm told, and die if off its edge I row.

Yet for some have sailed past door of death, and then been seen to take a breath.

Reality, what we believe, is truth or lie, as we perceive.

So thus if truth unchanging law, we all have truths but some may fall.

To pass or give to way that be, what call us now reality.

And pressing forth that light of day, will change our laws, our hopes at bay.

That what we seek to make or mind, will serve us for a longer time.

Thus hope we lie not to ourselves, while leaving truth on dusty shelves."

Owsee, "you leave me speechless.  I don't have the words to express my joy for your poems, they speak for themselves.  I hope when the day comes, that we can sit down and tell long stories, that they will all move me the way your poems do."

I said, "well, a story gives the teller time to help the listeners to feel the way the teller did.  But with, or in, a poem one must pour out his heart in just a few verses."

Owsee, "and you do it very well, you are truly a rich man."

I said, "well thank you Owsee, sometimes I do feel that way."

Owsee, "here's to being rich men."

"To being rich men," I said.

Then we drank, smoked, and talked a great deal.  I told him how back on Earth we made up songs about things, so they would be remembered.  He said most of the music on his world did not have any words in it.  So that people could just have a good time without the need to remember something new.

“As the station dies”

One of the pilots told Goo da wa that his ship had been loaded, from the gift shop, and he had to be on his way.  He said thank you again for the party, and good luck to all of us.  He then left just as Goo da wa's helper came in to tell him all the things from the back room had been put on Owsee’s ship.  And Goo da wa told Owsee that all that was left to pack up was the odds and ends that were in the front of the bar.  Owsee told him to take his time, so that we didn't run out of anything.  Then two of Owsee’s workers came in to tell a pilot that his ship was ready.  They had a drink then said their goodbyes to Owsee before leaving.

Before long Owsee got up, saying he needed to stretch his legs.

He walked over to the open-door and said, "this place has been here a long time, sorry to see it go like this."

Then he turned to the pilots at the bar and said, "don't worry, the men working on your ships are not going anywhere until they fix you up."

One man said, "I know they’re not, because three of them are going with me."

Another pilot said, "and I got two."

Then Owsee said to the last one, "you’re not waiting for repairs are you?"

He said, "no, my ship is fine."

Owsee asked if he was waiting to take someone, and he answered, "no one has asked.  I'm just enjoying this fine party we are having.  I’ll miss this place, I stop here all the time."

Owsee, "can you take two dock workers and two from med lab to the fourth planet?"

Pilot, "no problem, I'm going that way."

Owsee, "how much?"

Pilot, "the powder you gave us was more than enough."

Then Goo da wa said, "drinks on the house until we all leave."

This got a big yah from everyone, and a, "party on," from Owsee.

The men from med lab came in, and said the last of the things from the lab were on Owsee’s ship.  Owsee told them they could go with the pilot at the bar, or wait for him.  They said they would go with the pilot and sat down with him.

Owsee picked up a bowl of tracer nuts and brought them back to the table.  Sitting them down he said, "have you ever had tracer nuts before?"

I said, "yes, they are good to the last nut."

I put one in my mouth and crunched it.  Then I saw traces of light zipping by as the nut melted away in my mouth.

Owsee said, "they taste so good you want to eat a big handful at a time.  But that will give you a headache that can last for an hour, better to stick with just one at a time."

So we kept popping them unto the bowl was empty.  Then the rest of the dock workers came in and drank until their pilots were ready to go.

Owsee asked Goo da wa if he had any more tracer nuts.  He said he had packed them already, but there were some mush melts left.  I had never tried mush melts before.  They were like chocolate covered mushrooms, very tasty.  I asked Owsee what they did, and he said, "they make you numb but feels strong at the same time, then there is some déjà vu.  But first it happens in reverse; it's somewhat funny, but it doesn't last long."

Goo da wa brought us a bowl of them.  They were small and very tasty, I was on my third one before they started to kick in.  I saw the pilots and dock workers leave and then walk backward, sit down, then get up and leave again, all in fast motion.  It was kind of funny.

When my head started to clear I could see that we were the only ones left, just Goo da wa, Owsee and me.  Then Kitty came in as Goo da wa was putting some bottles in a box.  She asked if he needed any help but he said that this was the last of it.  She then walked over to our table and said next to me.  She said her shop was all packed up and on the ship.  Then she took a drink of my ale and smiled at me.  I saw that she was wearing the collar I gave her, and commented about it.  She said it was not like they were on her home world, and that she could not pack something so beautiful away in a box.

Owsee said, "it looks very nice on you."

She thanked him and said, "look at this spread you got here.  Is this what you have been doing all these hours?"

Owsee said, "no, this is what we have been doing."  And he pulled the crystal credit ball out of his bag.  Setting it on the table he said, "we have been guarding this!"

Goo da wa walked over to the table and said, "I have never seen one so big."

Owsee tapped the top, and numbers made up of different signs started to float around in it and lined up on the sides.

"How much?" asked Goo da wa.

Owsee said, "twenty-one trill."

"twenty-one trill," said Kitty.  You can buy a moon with have of that."

Owsee, "yes, or change a world, and that is what we are going to do; for the better, I hope.  I'm sorry I had to sacrifice this place, but it had to be done."

After a few moments of silence Owsee asked Goo da wa if he had heard anything from the mine.

Goo da wa, "yes, they all got on a transport, and the Forman left a message for you, "404."

I started laughing, as did Owsee and Goo da wa.  Kitty asked what was so funny.  Owsee said, "I think they dropped part of a mountain on the CMA."

She just smiled as the rest of us laughed it off.

Then Owsee said, "is that all that is left, those two boxes on the counter?"

Goo da wa, "plus the 30 pound bag of fire powder, and what’s left in that keg of rum."

Owsee, "well, everyone grab something and follow me."

So we picked up the bag, the rum, and the two boxes, then headed for the ship.  There was a moving cart just down the hall, so we put everything on it just to make it easier.  After we got on the ship Owsee told us to go up to the observation room while he made sure all the cargo was secure.  So we took our stuff up to the room and sat down at the wide, half circle, table and waited for Owsee.  He came up before long with a barrel of ale, saying, “it will not be easy to get to any of the cargo after we take off, as everything has been sprayed with secure string; and that stuff gets firm very fast."

“A rude goodbye”

Owsee flipped open a control panel on the table, and we were soon flying the bridge high above the main ship.

"I don't like a rough take off," he said, "and this may turn out bad, so better we are up here."

We watched as he started the engines to the main ship.  Fire came out from underneath and started to burn half of the docks.  The ship started to rise through the smoke and flames.  There was an explosion!  "The O2 on the docks I think," said Owsee.

Then another ball of fire came up and around the ship as we all heard the thunderous sound of the explosion.

"That would be the hydrogen, I think," said Owsee.

We could hear the roar of the engines as the mountain of a ship tried to push itself higher.

Owsee, "it's too heavy, I knew it would be."

The ship moved a little bit more upward, but not much.

Owsee, "I need to dump some weight."  Then I saw a smile on his face as he said to me, "remember what I said about the waste purge control?  Watch closely."

He typed in the command and the ship open five doors, on the port side, to the waste storage tanks.  There was a heavy shower of shit as the ship started to rise higher and higher, still spitting out her foul goodbye.

Owsee said, "and that's the way we do it.  Good thing they said they didn't care about the station."

Kitty was laughing so hard I think she wet herself, as it was truly a once in a lifetime sight.

When the ship got high enough we docked with it, and headed for the nearest Star gate.

“Star gate bound”

Owsee, "have any of you been through a Star gate before?"  He asked as he looked at us for an answer.  "Well, it’s the thing that will get us where we are going in just two days, without it the trip could take a month.  They have built three new ones in the last 20 years.  We will be at the first one in a few hours, until then there is not much to do.  I have been refitting this ship for the last 10 years, so one person can do the work of a crew of 20, it has been a lot of work but well worth it."

Kitty asked, "what happens when we get to your world, do we just land or must we ask permission?"

Owsee, "I will need to leave the ship in orbit while I find just the right place to land it, remember what happened to the station.  We will take the other ship down and scout out a place.  As soon as we land, I need to pull out all the data chips and put them in protective storage.  The same with the small ship in the hanger, except for the one you put that tuner in; to protect the control chips.  But for now, past the rum."

"None for me," she said, "until the children are born.  Do you have any milk?"

Owsee, "of course, in the mess hall, you passed it on the way here."

Kitty said, "I remember," and she went to get the milk.

Owsee, "we might as well party while we can.  There will be a lot to do when we get there.  No telling when we will get another break like this."

So he put a handful of firepower on the table and we pulled out the jumbo sticks.

Owsee said, "don't eat the jumbo sticks, they are the only ones not in storage."

Goo da wa, "what was it you once told me about how your people vote on a new name for the planet?"

I said, "yeah, what is its name?"

Owsee, "I don't know anymore.  Once every 50 years the planet votes on a new name.  The last vote was 10 years ago, so I can't tell you where we are going until we get there."

When Kitty came back I said, "guess what?  We don't know where we're going."

We all started to laugh, except for kitty that is, who said we all had too much to drink and better not be lost.  I was laughing so hard it was all I could do to choke out the words, "Owsee, tell her why we don't know where we are going."

So Owsee explained it to her and she said we were all still very drunk.

I said, "how about we name it just until we get there."

Owsee, "I’m open to suggestions."

I said, "how about Lore, as in folk lore."

Owsee, "how do you spell it? L O R?"

I said, "I think it's L, o, r, e."

Owsee, "that’s the trouble with your language.  You put extra letters on words and say they are silent.  It's a wonder any of you learn to read and write at all."

I said, "some don't."

Owsee, "some don't, what do you mean by that?"

I said, "some just give up and never learned to read at all."

Owsee, "I think that is very said, you have a rich culture, and everyone should be able to read about it.  I promise I will not give up on you, even if I have to learn each and every word one by one; it is the most important thing I can do for my world."

“405-1=406”

Just then, a light in the table started flashing.  Owsee said, "we are coming up on the Star gate.  I'll transmit my DNA code now."

I watched how he did it, so I could do the same when the time came, the screen flashed back negative.

I said, "perhaps they are pissed about what you did to their android."

Owsee, "that damn CMA.  Push the green button by you to extend the long range antenna."

Owsee then got through to the corporate mining company that ran the gates.  An android came on the line and said, "hello I am 405, can I help you?"

Owsee said, "yes you can help.  My contract gives me use of the gate, transmit the open code or end up like 401."

The CMA said, "I am sorry, I do not see any contract for gate use for you.  You will need to buy a pass."

Owsee, "is it true that the corporate bosses monitor your transmissions?"

CMA, "yes, why?"

Owsee, "and how much do you cost?"

CMA, "about 100,000 credits, why do you ask?"

Owsee, "scan this, 200,000 credits for the first CEO that destroys 405."

The android had just enough time to say, "you don't really think," when a guard walk in and blew his head off with a blaster.  He then dragged the android out, and another one came in and sat down, saying, "I am 406.  How may I help you?"

Owsee, "Unlimited gate privileges for the two of us, now!  407."

"I am 406 sir."  Said the CMA.

Owsee, "not for long if you don't honor my contract."

The CMA said, "thank you for your communication, the gate is now open to you, have a nice trip."

The lights came on around the gate.  Owsee told me to hit the green button again to retract the long range antenna.  We moved through the gate and whoosh, we were in hyperspace.  Then Owsee showed me how to lock onto the next gate.

I said, "200,000 credits was a lot just to make a point.”

Owsee, "we left two of them on the moon, and they did away with another one for me.  At 100,000 credits apiece, I think only 200, 000 for all three was a fair price.  It also sent a message, we will not be having any more problems with our Star gate contract."

“Going where?”

Owsee told us that when we came out through the next gate the engines would shut down, so we don't miss the space station that is near the gate.  He said that we might as well look the place over while we are out here.

Kitty came back, from getting her milk, to find the three of us keeping the party going; Kitty just drank her milk.  It had a strange smell to it, like chocolate, so I tried it and said it was very good.  Kitty said she thought I only liked the taste of rum.  I said that on my planet that is called nagging, and it’s not very nice, but that I forgave her for the remark.  She said she was sorry and I said she was right, that I had been drinking a lot of rum.

Then Goo da wa said, "and we will drink a lot more before we get to Lore."

“Lore?” said Kitty.

“Yes,” replied Goo da wa, “We decided to call it Lore.”

Owsee, "now we know where we are going, ha ha ha."

We all joined in laughing, and Kitty said it was somewhat funny.

“A stop on the way”

Next thing we knew, we were stopping on the other side of the gate.  Owsee got on the communicator and was directly to an outside dock.  Dock control locked onto our ship and extended a large tube to connect to our hatch.

Owsee, "you two go look things over, I want my teacher and I to talk to the dock master."

And so Kitty and Goo da wa went to look at the shops while Owsee and I went to see the dock master.

Owsee said, "this is a transfer station.  Ships from all over the system come here.  The CM brings goods in each month, but never too much water, they like to keep the cost up."

Owsee asked a worker to show us to dock control.  He asked us if we had any water.  Owsee pulled out a bottle of water from his bag and gave it to him.  The man took a drink and tried to hand it back, but Owsee told him to keep it.  With that the man thanked him, and showed us to the dock master's office.  When we got there the worker lifted his bottle toward us and said to the dock master, "these two want to talk to you."

The man said, "you have water?"

Owsee, "I take it you're out."

He said, "just about, and another week before the CM drops off."

Owsee, "how would you like a thousand units of clean h2o?"

The man asked how much, and Owsee said, "I will leave that to my teacher here."

Owsee then turned to me and said to be generous.  So I asked the man how much it was going for here.  He told me 300 credits per unit.

I said, "200 credits a unit, screw the CM."

The dock master said, "I'll take a thousand at that price."

Owsee said it's a deal and that he would show his worker where to tap in.  The man gave Owsee a credit chip and he said to me, "I just got my 200,000 back and screwed the CM at the same time."

We showed the worker where to tap into the ship's water, and when we reached 1000 units we disconnected and locked it off.  Owsee and I then went to the promenade to find Goo da wa and Kitty.

They were sitting on a bench near a holographic fountain, eating a pastry on a stick.  Kitty shared hers with me and said she saw a dress that was nothing like any she had, and wondered if it was all right to buy it.  I told her to buy anything she liked, so she went into the dress shop while the rest of us looked around a bit.  Goo da wa wanted to see what the bar looked like, but we left moments afterwards.  The music was so loud we just couldn’t stay it.  The restaurant seemed to be a nice place but we didn’t get anything.  Then Kitty caught up with us and said she was done shopping, so we all went back to the ship.

After we were away from the station Owsee put me behind the controls and told me how to set up for the next jump.  It was easy to do, and there was no problem with the gate this time.  Owsee said it would be a few hours before we were out of hyperspace again, and that he was going to take a nap.  He then laid down on a sofa, on the far side of the room and nodded off.

I asked Kitty if she would like to see the room I had picked out to use for the trip, and she said yes.  So leaving Goo da wa with a sleeping Owsee we went to my room.  It was just below the lounge and had a great view.  We laid down together to take a nap.

She said, "are you sure this planet is the right place to go?"

I said, "I have the other ship and the use of the Star gate.  I could run cargo if I wanted to.  With free gate use I could make a lot that way.  But let's see what this planet has before we make up our minds."

I was half asleep when I felt a shudder.  I got up and said I was going to the bridge.  She said I’m coming too.

When we got there, we could see we were out of hyperspace and coming up on another station.  It looked just like the last one.

Owsee said, "take us in," and looked at me.  So I got on the controls, and set our course for the dock they gave us.

“Last stop before home”

Owsee said, "offer the dock master the same deal we did at the last station," so I did it over the link.  He went for it right off, and after we were secure to the dock I stayed behind to open the lock to the water.  The rest went to check out the station.  After the water unload I locked up and went to find them.  They were at a farming supply shop with many tools and different kinds of seeds, fruits, and vegetables.  There was one with a talk in design that said, "try one, guaranteed not to offend your taste buds."  It was a small white berry with no taste at all.  The shop was interested but the only thing we bought was a big bag of poppers.  They looked like popcorn but tasted like cheese.  We had finished the whole bag before we were done looking around.

"Take a good look," Owsee said, "there are no other stations between here and our new home."

We got another large bag of poppers before we left.  Owsee put me on the controls again and showed me on the chart where we were going.

Once again, there was no problems with the gate and we were on our way.

“Hyperspace tripping”

Owsee talked about how it was good that I had that thing that would protect my translator.  As it would still take a while for him and the rest of them to learn my language.

I wrote down another poem for Owsee to practice sounding out.

"To be awake yet still to dream, mind’s eye still catching a few scenes.

So fantasies that are explored, are welcome as an open door.

Yet soon -- I'm sure that I will wake, and cast an eye on scenes that take; away delights of mourning dreams, at least that's how it all dose seem".

Owsee worked on reading it, and did well.  Especially sense it was not your standard, first time readers, practice sentence.

But I still said, "I think before we teach anyone else we should change the rules.  No more silent letters and everything spelled the way it sounds, at least to start with.  Of course there are going to be a lot of words that I only know how to spell one way.  But we can work something out."

He said, "yes, let's make it easier."

Kitty, "can you teach me to read?"

I said, "I'll teach Owsee, he can teach you, and the both of you can come to me on the words you don't know."

Then Kitty said, "I'm going to the room to try on this new dress I bought.  I'll be back shortly."  And off she went.

Goo da wa asked, "how long before we come out the next gate?"

Owsee said, "I think it will take most of a day, but so far we are making better time than I thought we would.  This old ship has more to her than I had hoped for.  Guess I did a pretty good job on fixing her up.  But then I did have plenty of time."

Then he reached in his bag and pulled out six mushrooms he had been saving and said, "the best trip you will ever have is to trip while in hyperspace."

And with that, we all started to eat the mushrooms and washed them down would ale.  We put fire powder in our shots of rum and made toast after toast to things we would do on the New World.

Kitty came back wearing a red dress that sparkled with thin cut crystals interweaved.  It was low over the shoulders, came down halfway past her waist, and had a split up one side.  She said, "what do you think?"

And we all said very nice, it’s your color.  I think I may have added a, “oh my - oh my,” but I’m not sure.

I was just finishing my second mushroom as she said, "how many of them have you eaten?"

I said, "we all had two."

She said, "I'm going to get myself some more milk."  And walked out of the room at a brisk pace.

I said, "what's wrong with her?"

Owsee said, "maybe it's hormones."

Goo da wa, "maybe it's because she can't have any."

After a few moments of silence I said, "look outside, all those colors seem to come right inside and dance around."

Goo da wa, "you're wasted."

Owsee said, "so are you and I."

Goo da wa, "well I hope so.  We all ate two mushrooms each.  We should stay high most of the way there."

Then I said, "hey, let's test our memories.  Try to remember this poem."

"Seek ye now the dark side, all controversy put aside.  Loveliness and delight, can't stir the soul like a good fright.  Let your mind just fade away, to secret places none can invade.  They inspired shall ye be, more than by all that's pretty.  Dragon's breath and darken holes, stir deep regions in one's soul.  Fire’s illusion is its light, let your fever burn as bright."

Owsee said, "you picked a fine time to teach me a new poem.  I can't remember it.  But I like it very much.  How about you Goo da wa?"

"Yes, I like it," said Goo da wa, "but I am not good at remembering things like Owsee.  That's why I mark them down if I need too."

I said, "you have a written language?"

Goo da wa, "no, my people write with pictures and marks that reminds us of things.  We mostly make it up as we go."

I said, "that's how language started on my planet.  We drew pictures until enough of us got together and started to name things.  That's why there are so many words.  Each part of my world will name things differently.  On earth it's good to speak two or three languages."

Owsee, "well I think we stick with just one for now.  And when we get to my planet I want to find a big cave, and write all your poems on the walls so they will never be forgotten."

Goo da wa, "if the cave is close to a town I can set up my bar there, if it’s big enough.  Maybe we call it, "The Poetic Drink."  After I learned to read I can tell people the stories on the walls.  They will come for the poems and stay for a drink."

Owsee, "that's a good idea, and I know of some large caves near a town I lived close to.  They are not far, there’s lots of water nearby, fruit trees, and the soil is so rich you can grow just about anything.  At least that's how it was 35 years ago, things may have changed, we will soon know."

Then I said, "if your planet has so much water, why hasn’t the corporate mining company tried to take it over?"

Owsee, "they tried that one.  They came down with their big ships and started to drain our rivers and lakes.  Then we got some weapons and started to blast anything with a CM emblem on it.  They try to negotiate with us from time to time and we send their CMA’s home in a box, a very small box.  Most of my people still feel the same way.  However, enough talk about the CM, it brings me down.  Let’s smoke some of the weed buds."

And I said, "have you been saving the seeds?"

Owsee, "no, we have a good quality of it on my world."

Goo da wa, "I've been saving seeds."

Owsee, "see, he is a better farmer than I am.  By the way, how does that fancy pipe of yours smoke?  You have had it long enough to tell."

I said, "it stays cool, the metal does not get hot and the top snaps back down after lightning so I can let go of it; and let it hang down next to my shirt without burning it.  But I am wondered how long before the dragon fire runs out."

Goo da wa, "it will never run out, it works with the static electricity it gets from you."

I said, "well every time I use it I will think of you."

Goo da wa, "and every time I think about what that big purple thing could have done to me, I will remember what you did for me.  A life debt is hard to repay."

Owsee said, "I owe him one as well."

I said, "maybe the three of us have just been tied together by the fates for a reason."

Owsee, "the four of us, with Kitty, and more on the way."

I said, "how many do you think she will have?"

Owsee, "these are her first, so most likely she will have two, I can scan her when they get bigger."

I said, "am I out of my head for taking a mate I hardly know?"

"No," said Goo da wa, "you could not find a better mate than Kitty."

Owsee, "that's right, she would die for you.  Catalacks are very loyal and hard workers.  As soon as she has the children you will see how well she takes care of them and you.  You are a lucky man, in more ways than one."

A moment later kitty walking in with another pitcher of milk, and standing by the large window of a front end, she looked out into hyperspace and said, "it sure is a beautiful sight."

Owsee said, "it will not last much longer, we are almost there.  I must admit I didn't think this ship could make the trip so fast, and I’m not even pushing her."

Kitty, "are you all still as high as a moon?"

Owsee, "no, I’m only as high as a satellite."

Goo da wa, "me too."

I said, "I'm only as high as a bird, because I’m a nibor."

Everyone started laughing, including Kitty.  Then she said, "okay, Bird Man, are you straight enough to fly the ship into orbit?"

I said, "no problem, it's just point and click.  As long as I don't hit the waste purge button over some city we should be fine."

There was a bit of laughing and a “let’s not” from Owsee.  Kitty kind of shook her head and smiled.

We soon dropped out of hyperspace, as we went through the gate, and it was time for me to show I could still fly the ship.  Owsee showed me on the screen which planet we were going to.  I set a course and plotted an orbit.

Kitty seemed a little nervous to see me at the controls.  But a, "very good, you got it," from Owsee put her at ease.

We all just stared at the world we were coming up on.  As if words could not express what we were feeling.  Owsee pointed out different landmasses he recognized and adjusted the final orbit to put us above a place he knew well.

It was night below us, and Owsee said we should get some rest and we would go down when the sun was up on this side of the planet again.

Owsee and Goo da wa stretched out in the lounge while Kitty and I went to my room below.  We both laid down together and she began to purr.  It was very soothing and I was quickly asleep.

“Dawn on a new world”

Day 3

I don't know how long we slept.  But it was one of the most peaceful sleeps, in a long time.  When I got up, Kitty was still asleep.  Or at least pretending to be.  I gave her a light kiss, a brush of the cheek, and got a sweet purr in response.  Then I went to the cargo bay to check on the ship we would take down to the planet.

Owsee was already there, taking out the memory chips from the other ship.  He had already pulled out the small solar sail ship and secured it to the wall.  I asked him if he needed any help.  He said he had taken out the chips from the medical equipment in storage, and the other equipment that we would not need right away, but would leave the chips in the food banks until after we landed.  We installed the tuner in the ship, next to the main computer, and I said, "I hope this thing works.  The ship is too big to fly without the computer.  We took the other chips to the protective vault; which was not much more than a safe that was suspended in a large tank of water, but Owsee said it would do the trick.

After we got something to eat, we went back up to the bridge.  Kitty was already there with Goo da wa, and they were watching the sun that was just coming up over the planet below, and it was beautiful.  You could see oceans and lakes as well as cloud formations.

Owsee pointed out an area he wanted to go to first.  It was clear there, no rain today.  Kitty asked if we were going to take the bridge down by itself.  Owsee said the atmosphere was too dense, there would be too much heat to take it down by itself.  We would have to use the other ship.  So we all went down to the cargo bay and got on my new ship.

After flying a ship the size of a mountain, you would think that flying a ship the size of a three-story house would be no big deal, but it was.  The controls were not point-and-click, they were buttons, levers and a joystick.  I would have to be very gentle on the controls until I got the hang of it.

As soon as I was ready, Owsee used his remote control to decompress the bay and released the clamps that held us in place.  The big door opened and a lot of dust floated out.  Kitty was not at all at ease, but well strapped in; as were we all.  After a few moments, I flew us into open space without hitting anything, but it was close.  Owsee help me to plot a course of spiral maneuvers that would keep us from burning up on the way down.

The thin cloud cover broke at around 1200 feet.  I increased the retro’s until we were hovering at 500 feet from the ground.

Owsee pointed to some mountains and we headed that way, as he tuned in the transceiver in case anyone was trying to hail us.  We passed over a small town on our way, no tall buildings and it blended in well with its surroundings.  It was about 2 miles from the mountain and there was a river that ran next to it.  We could see that there was a desert on the other side of the mountains, and a green meadow on this side by a lake.  We landed next to the lake.  There was no computer assist for final landing on this ship, so I had to adjust the retro’s as we went.  Still all in all it went rather well, and we landed about as smooth as you would expect for a three story house.

“Ancestral ground”

Owsee was the first one out of the ship.  The rest of us followed as he ran up to the water and splashed his face; cupping his hands he took a drink, then said, "just as fresh as I remember it.  What do you think?  Can we find a better place?  There are trees over there, lots of room for gardening and some large caves on the side of the mountain; and I could land the big ship in the desert, on the other side.  Also the town is just a 2 mile walk from here.  Does anyone have anything bad to say about the spot?"

I said, "Will the townsfolk mind us just showing up and moving onto this place like this?"

Owsee, "they have no choice, I own it!"

I said, "you own it?"

Owsee, "yes, from the other side of the desert to the other side of the lake, from the other side of the mountains to the first house in town.  It was my fathers, the house that is.  The rest I bought about 10 years ago when I got the ship ready to fly.  It just took me until now to sell the mine and leave.  Yes, it's all mine, and yours if you will let me share it with you.  But before you make up your minds let me show you my father's house and the town."

He was very excited as he beckoned us to follow him across the field.  There was a fruit tree on our way and we picked one for each of us.  It had a thin skin and a sweet flavor.

“Meet the Mayor”

In the distance we could see an elderly man, with a long white beard, walking toward us.  He had a long rod in one hand that he used as he walked.  Owsee yelled out to him and he waved back, then stopped and waited for us to come to him.

"This is an old friend of the family," Owsee said, "he will have many stories to tell us, and he is Mayor of the town."

"Owsee Wa sphere," the man said as we get close, "I thought that maybe you.  Why didn't you tell us you were coming?"

Owsee, "I couldn’t send a message because I didn't even know the name of the planet anymore."

The Mayor said, "we named it Lor re et."

Owsee, "we were thinking it may have been named Lore, as in folklore."

Mayor, "that name was highly suggested but it just didn't get the votes.  And who are these with you?"

Owsee introduced each of us, one by one, and the Mayor said hello, you are welcome in my town.  Then we all started toward the town with Owsee and the Mayor in the lead.

Mayor, "so tell me Owsee, are you here for good or are you still looking for stories?"

Owsee, "here for good I hope.  And I think I have enough stories to last a lifetime."

Mayor, "good, I look forward to hearing your stories."

Owsee, "my teacher here has shown me how to write stories."

Mayor, "write you say, interested.  I can't recall ever having a master storyteller on the planet, we are honored.  And your other friends, what do they do?"

Owsee, "Kitty ran a clothing shop, we thought she could open one here."

Mayor, "yes, we could use another shop."

Owsee, "and Goo da wa had a bar."

Mayor, "we need a bar.  The last one closed a year ago when the owner moved to a big city.  It has not been the same without the bar."

Owsee, "Goo da wa has plans to open a bar and story room."

Mayor, "very good, we need such a place.  You are just the shot in the arm we need around here Owsee.  If you're not too busy I would like all of you to come by the restaurant at sunset, and enjoy some new beer with me.  Until then I bid you welcome and safe way."

Owsee then lead us to the farmhouse as the Mayor keep on the path toward town.

The house was a large one, 2 stories.  The first all stone and the rest log.  There were many windows and a large wraparound porch with chairs on it.  Inside was a living room with a large fireplace, and a small bar on one side that had an opening to the kitchen next to it.  It was a nice little kitchen, that also had an opening to the dining room next to it; on that side of the house.  The other side of that floor had two bedrooms, and there were three bedrooms upstairs; and a large room for storage.

All the furniture was handmade of the best quality woods but covered with dust, still the workmanship showed through it.

Kitty asked if we were going to stay here or on the ship tonight.

Owsee said we might as well stay here, because he would be parking the big ship in the desert; on the other side of the mountain.

Kitty said, "I'll have this place cleaned up in no time."

Owsee, "so what do you think teacher, is it big enough to raise a family in?"

I said, "oh it's big enough all right."

Owsee, "I'm glad to hear you say so because I'm giving it to you."

I said, "to me, why would you do that?"

Owsee, "you have a family on the way.  Don't worry, you can pay for it with the stories you will tell me.  But I also want to keep you around, you’re a good man to have in a tight spot, so let's call it a wedding present."

I said, "well all I can say is thank you, thank you very much."

Owsee, "we need to celebrate, let's see what’s in dad’s old bar.  Here is a towel, we can put that to work on the glasses and the stools.  A bottle of wine and a bottle of Dew Mist.  I think you will like this, it's a liqueur."

And he handed the bottle to Goo da wa to clean and pour.

Goo da wa, "my pleasure," as he wiped off the top of the bottle and poured each of us a drink.

Owsee, "to a new start."  To a new start, we said and drink.

Kitty came into the room and asked what we were drinking to this time?  We all said to a new start, then I added, "and Owsee just gave us this house."

Kitty, "really?  Oh Owsee you're the best," and she gave him a big hug.

Owsee, "it's my wedding present to the both of you and the children to come."

Kitty, "I want to make a toast.  Will you pour me just a small one."

Owsee said of course I will, and poured all of us one.

Then Kitty said, "to the best friend anyone could ever have."

We drink and Owsee said, "thank you one and all.  And as long as we are staying I may as will bring the big ship down before some space pirate gets to it first."

Kitty, "do we need to go with you?"

Owsee, "no one needs to go anywhere, I have the remote control on me.  And dad used to talk to nearby ships on the transceiver over the bar.  I can just uplink with it and call the ship down.”

The screen came on, and the ship's control display showed on it.  Owsee put in a few commands and the ship was on its way.

I tried not to show concern about a mountain of a ship on its way down toward us, so I said, "I have a poem about friends."

"Conversation heard in time, ponderous questions of life's rhyme.

Out loud do I answer them, though no one else hears my past friends.

Daydream visions and debates, a turning point still awaits.

Some memories are my best friends, so why should I not speak to them.

Some say, it's just plain said others say, he has -- gone quite mad.

For thoughts, we have throughout the day, of souls we've touched that passed our way.

Caught up admit I must agree, in some reflection or degree.  So pardon me if time to time, past conversation cross my mind."

Owsee, "thank you my dear friend.  Unless I am wrong, that one was about talking to oneself.  I like the way you put it, well done."

Kitty, "yes that was a very nice poem."

Goo da wa, "After all the years I have known Owsee I am well acquainted with the need to talk to one’s self, and I liked it very much.  Maybe we can put it up in my new bar."

I said, "when are you going to look at the caves?"

Owsee said, "we can look at them on our way back from pulling the chips from the big ship and putting them in storage.  Let's go to the backyard and watch the ship come down."

So we went to the backyard and started to look for the ship as Owsee said, "these berries on the bush are good to eat, and there are many kinds of fruit in this overgrown orchard out here.  It needs a lot of work but the trees still look healthy."

Then we saw the ship come down high above the town and slide over the mountain."

Goo da wa, "well, we better get to it."

Owsee told Kitty she could stay and clean if she liked, and that she could get fresh milk in town.  He said we would be back before dark.

Then the three of us went back to my ship to fly over the mountains.

We picked some more fruit on our way, from the same tree we passed before.  I asked Owsee what kind it was, and he said he didn’t know; that he nor his father planted that one.

After flying to Owsee’s ship he said it looked as if it had made a soft landing.  We went in and started to pull out the computer chips in the mess hall, and the main computer in the bridge.  We put them in storage, and loaded my ship with things we thought we might need in the next few days.  We then flew low around the mountain, on the town side, where there were some large caves.  The entrance to one was so large I could almost fly my ship into it.  Owsee said this one was called, "The grand Hall," because just inside the mouth it opens up to 100 feet high and about that much wide and long.

We had taken a long time to load my ship and it was starting to get dark.  So we decided to come back on foot tomorrow when there was more light.  I then flew over to the house and set the ship down not far off.  It kicked up a bit more dust than I wanted to so close to the house.  We then started to bring in some things from the ship, mainly the rum, the bag of fire powder, the ale and the two boxes from Goo da wa's bar.

By this time, it was dark indeed and we all walked into town for dinner.  The Mayor was sitting at a large table by the fireplace and beckoned us to come over the moment we walked in.  People at the counter, and others smiled at us and said hello as we walked by them.  It felt very friendly.

We sat down at the Mayor's table and he said the brew is on me.  A waitress brought all of us mugs of fresh cold brew.  Kitty drink half of hers right down before saying, "I didn't know I was so thirsty."

Mayor, "did Owsee ever tell you he was the last of four brothers?  They all went off to find their fortune, but he is the only one to make it back alive.  I hope you have some good stories to tell us, it has been a long time since anyone around here has had a new one."

Owsee asked me if any new pomes came to mind.

I said, "I have one that you may like."

“Behold all men that breath do take, even the brave one day shall quake.  Be rich or poor most still would walk, poet or not each would still talk.  Be food of the gods or plain fare be, each body still does wish to see.  Two cool when hot and warm when cold, is base of need for all I'm told.  To breathe the air and think of rain, each hopes life will give not much pain.  With all that's base we are the same, for life is all that we must tame."

Mayor, "that was very good.  I will charge a picture of brew each time I repeat it.  Have many others heard this?"

I said, "you're the first one’s on this side of the galaxy."

Mayor, "and you can write this down, then read it back?"

I said, "yes, I can write it down and teach others to read it, Owsee is getting very good at."

Mayor, "is he now.  Well this is something I would like to see.  But for now let's drink to old friends coming home and making new friends, may you all feel welcome in our town."

Then the Mayor said to Goo da wa, "have you decided where you want to set up your new bar?"

Goo da wa, "we were looking at a cave called the grand hall."

Mayor, "the grand hall.  Yes, I know it well, lots of room and not far from town.  A more beautiful place you could not ask for.  And if Miss Kitty would like to put her shop where the old bar was, it’s just across the street from here.  If it is not big enough we can add onto the back end."

Owsee, "I know the place, it's bigger than her last shop."

Mayor, "and you Owsee, what are your plans?"

Owsee, "I am going to live as a storyteller, as my father wished I would.  But I also have a number of projects I want to do, some of which I will need your help on."

Mayor, "what do you have in mind?"

Owsee, "I want to set up a medical clinic, with the best equipment there is, at the edge of town.  I have everything we need but a place and someone to run it.  Instead of just wind and solar power, I want to punch out a geothermal well to give the town more power.  I have the credits to pay for it myself."

Mayor, "they sound like good ideas to me.  I approve of both of them.  I will do whatever I can to speed them along.  And you sir, what are your plans?"

I said, "I'm not sure right now.  Owsee tells me I can make it as a storyteller.  I may do some farming or shipping as well."

Mayor, "good for you sir, a well rounded thought."

The waitress brought us more beer, and Kitty asked for some milk.  They brought us bread and butter, jam, nuts, fruit, and berries.  I was about to ask if they were vegetarians when the waitress told Kitty they were out of fish but should have some in tomorrow.

We ate and drank as the fireplace flickered and someone played a flue.

The Mayor asked each of us about our home worlds.  How the farming was, what the homes were like and the food.  He asked about the schools and what we teach our children, and why we left.  We went around the table as the evening wore on, telling and asking many things.  The Mayor truly had a knack for drawling information out of people.

Then he asked me if I would grace him with another one of my poems.

I replied that would be my pleasure and that this one was called asleep at the wheel.

"Asleep at the wheel at rise of day, coffee in hand we’re on our way.  Terrified if realized, how many drivers have closed eyes.  Have you noted as you drive, idiots are they slower than I.  And maniacs must surely be, those that go swifter than me.  Each thinks he has less time than you, each feels their driving is more true.  But I implore one eye you peel, as pass me by you do with zeal.  That I might give you my salute, and with my horn a quick tote-tote!"

Mayor, "thank you teacher, that was a very nice poem.  It reminds me of how busy a big city can be and how glad I am to be here.  I shall submit this one to the highway department safety program.  And with that I must call it a night.  Thank you for sharing your stories with me my new friends, good night to you all."

Shortly after the Mayor left the rest of us did as well.  When we got to the house Goo da wa took an upstairs room to sleep it while Owsee chose one of the downstairs rooms, Kitty and I took the other one.  A few short good nights and we were all off to bed.

“Much to do”

Day 4

I woke the next morning to the sound of a bird singing outside of my window and the smell of fish being cooked.  Kitty had got up early and gone fishing.  There was plenty for all us.

While we ate we talked about what we would do today.  Kitty said she needed to clean up the shop in town before we move her things in.  Owsee said not to worry about her things, we would bring them to her while she worked on getting the shop right.  He also said we needed to stop landing so close to the house.  He said it would be better to land over near the lake, and use the transport he had in the barn to bring the things from there.  He said he was sure it would still work even after all this time.

So after breakfast kitty went to town and the rest of us went to the barn to get the transport out.  It looked a lot like a flat bed truck but with a sleeker design, it started up right away.  So I told Owsee and Goo da wa I would meet them at the lake, and went to my ship to fly it over there.  As I was blasting off I could see the dust that was being sent toward the house.  I was sure that was not going to make Kitty happy.  I landed at the same spot we had before, not far from the water.  Owsee and Goo da wa got on and we headed for the mother ship.  I made a low pass by the caves and we decided there would be no problem landing near them when the time came.

When we got to the other side of the mountain, we landed on the side of the ship that had Kitty's cargo in it.  Owsee said let me show you another feature of the ship.  And he pulled out his remote control.  A zap later the cargo container started to slide out from the side of the big ship and two metal arms pushed it a bit farther away.

Owsee said, "I was not sure that would still work.  And now, if you will let me fly, we can just pick the whole thing up with your ship."

I said be my guess, and Owsee got behind the controls.  He took us within inches of the big ship as he got right about the cargo container.  Then he sat down on the top of it lightly and engaged the locking clamps.  With a bit of a tilt to one side, we were up and on our way.

I said, "let me guess, you got your first training in a ship on a carryall."

Owsee, "when I first started my mine there was no one else, I had to learn to do it all.  That's not saying I didn't drop a load from time to time, but I got rather good at it."

We flew over the mountain and to where we parked the truck, next to the lake.

Owsee, "now here comes the fun part, trying to set the load down on the transport without crushing it.  If it was not mine I would not even try this."

There was only one monitor to see below.  He hovered for a moment, taped the transport once before letting the load down and pulled away.

We then landed, and looking at the truck Owsee said, "I'm glad the container was light.  It's not the best I have ever done, but it will stay on until we get to town.  If I were not able to get the ship to push the container out or land it on the transport, we would be doing this one handful at a time.  That's why I wanted the three of us."

We drove into town and parked right out front of the old bar.  The place had been swept out and Kitty was doing the windows.

She said, "I don't know what we are going to do with the old bar top?"

Owsee said he knew just what to do with it.  He flipped a lever and tilted the back end of the truck up, and the cargo container slid off.

Then we walked in and Owsee pulled a sheet off from this side of the bar and said, "it's only a top on some barrels with a sheet on this side.  He never changed it, the top comes right off."

So we put it on the transport, said we would be back for the cargo container later and drove to the cave.  We were able to get rather close.

Then we went inside to look it over, and it was mammoth big all right.

Owsee, "what do you think Goo da wa?  Is it big enough for you?"

Goo da wa, "you could put the whole town in here."

Owsee, "not the whole town, just the people."

Goo da wa, "we can set up the bar over here near the entrance so I will have a view of both inside and out."

We unloaded the barrels, and the bar top, then went to get the rest of the bar.  As we got close to the ship Owsee tried to use his remote control, but it didn’t work.  He tried again as we got closer and we were in luck.  Owsee asked me if I would like him to take the controls but I said I was fine.

Then swooping down on the box, I made a light touch and locked the clamps, then with a port swing pulled up; and we were on our way back.

Owsee, "hey!  You did that like a pro from the mines."

I said, "one of my jobs was flying a lifter for three years."

Owsee, "you have been holding out on me."

I said, "just tell me where you want it."

Owsee, "tell him where you want it Goo da wa."

Goo da wa, "right next to the mouth of the cave would be fine."

I said, "no problem."  And when we got there I said it down nice and easy then moved over a little ways away and set the ship down.

We then helped bring all his supplies in.

Owsee, "the way you flew it at first made me think you didn't know how to fly a ship like that."

I said, "I don't.  Carryall's are designed to be more stable as they change loads, I needed to get used to the controls."

After we got all the supplies in the cave Owsee told Goo da wa to meet us at the house for midday meal.  Owsee and I had another load to move.  We took the empty container to the field by the lake.  Then went after the one with the medical supplies in it.  We then dropped that one off next to the lake as well.

Owsee said he was going to put them all together to build the new clinic, as soon as he knew just where to put it.

We then drove to town and parked in front of the empty cargo container.  Owsee tilted the back end of the truck up and used the winch to pull the container up and onto the transport.

We then went in the shop to find there were open boxes all over the place and Kitty said, "I need racks for clothes and a display case for the smaller things.  I will also need a chip reader."

Owsee, "you can order anything you need at the hardware store.  I'll tell them to give you credit."

Kitty, "and I think the walls need to be painted."

Owsee, "you can't do that.  This was a gathering place, the walls are Ear-wood.  You can tell by the ear shaped patterns in the grain.  My people do not have many superstitions, but one of them is to give respect to the ear wood.  It is a very rare wood and said to be able to hear our stories and repeat them back to us after we are dead.  So you see, it can't be painted."

Kitty, "I don't want to offend anyone.  The walls can stay the way they are."

Owsee, "I appreciate your understanding.  You could put racks in front of them, even a shelf will not offend anyone.  By the way, the rest of us are having a midday meal at the house, will you come?"

Kitty, "I have a lot of work to do here, if you don't need me."

Owsee, "don't worry it's not a tradition or anything, just a meal.  We will see you later then."

Kitty said, "see you later."

I gave her a kiss and said, "later."

Then Owsee said, "we need to stop at the bank on the way to the hardware store, my bags heavy if you know what I mean."

I then realized he had been carrying the big crystal credit ball all this time.

So we went to what passed for a bank in this town.

As we walked in, we saw a large room with a desk in one corner and a man working on a computer at it.  We walked over and sat down in the chairs on this side of it.

The man said be right with you as you did something on the computer, then turned to us and said, "yes, what can I do for you gentlemen today?"

Owsee said, "my friend would like to open an account with a line of credit."  He then tossed a credit chip on the table.

I said to Owsee, "what's that?"

He said, "it's the water you sold at the last station."

The man put it in a reader and said, "200,000 credits, oh my.  Yes, we would be pleased to set up an account for you and open a line of credit."

Then Owsee said, "and when you are done with him I would like to make a small deposit."

The man said, "we are always --," and he was cut short as Owsee pulled out and set the large crystal ball on the table.

The man said, "oh my, my goodness will you look at that."

Owsee said, "it's 21 trill, you can check it," and he tapped the display.

The numbers ran around and around the cut crystal ball as the man just said, "oh my."

Then Owsee pulled out another credit ball and set it on the table, saying to me, "over 20 years of mining, you don't think I spent it all on the ship did you?"

He hit the display and the numbers ran around it as Owsee said, "19 trill.  And here is my DNA access key."

At this point the man stopped stuttering and said, "let me get the owner please."

Owsee said, "take your time, we are not going anywhere."

The man went to a back office and came out with the owner, who said, "I'm told you gentlemen would both like to make rather large deposits."

Owsee, "yes.  200,000 for my friend and 40 trill for me.  Is that a problem?"

"Not at all," the man said, "please just input your DNA identification here and I'll download your deposits."

He did our deposits and handed us bank ID chips.

As we left Owsee said, "keep the empty credit balls.  I may wish to make a large withdrawal one day."

And with that we went to the hardware store and open a line of credit for Kitty.  Then we drove back to the house.

Goo da wa got there about the same time and we all went out into the orchard and picked some fruit to eat.

Owsee said to me, "so you worked as a load mover for three years."

I said, "yes, I moved from place to place, moving farther out each time."

Owsee, "they must've given you a free gate ticket."

I said, "yes, but only if I'm going where they want me to go.  Each time I changed jobs without their permission I must find my own way there or pay the guild one third of what I make.  But for that I get to keep my seniority, and the higher pay rate that comes with it without a new contract with the CM."

Owsee, "but you get to choose where and when you work, that's not too bad."

I said, "yes, and that's a life ticket."

Owsee, "and because the guild sets the rate for contracts, the CM cannot deny you use of the gate because you have a free ticket."

I said, "I have never had to use it myself, because I have always been on a transport at the time.  But the guild would take a dim view at the CM stopping any guild member from using a gate."

Owsee, "that's the kind of leverage we need.  You see the way the CM treats the stations near the gates.  They never let them have enough water so they can keep the price high.  I want to help those people from time to time and screw the CM if I can.  But the thing is, if I mess with the CM, even with all my money, they could deny me use of a Star gate; and that may put me so far away that it could take a very long time to get back.  But with you, that's not a problem.  They can't stop a guild member with a free ticket."

I said, "that's true, as long as I am claiming to be on my way to a mine.  I would like to help those people with a water run from time to time."

Owsee, "that's why I bought the lake.  Water can be power, if you have a way to move it around."

I said, "sounds like fun.  After all I can't just sit around here telling stories, I need to make new ones."

I asked Goo da wa how the bar was coming.

Goo da wa, "I need a power source, and a credit chip link up."

Owsee, "and some brew, you need to give these people what they are used to before they will try something new.  I have an extra power generator in the barn you can use until we set you up with something different.  I'll talk to the bank about a credit feed line so you don't have to give out tabs.  And I'll ask around to see who has some beer to sell."

Goo da wa, "I was thinking some torches on the path to the cave and some lights inside.  I want to throw an opening party with the first barrel free."

Owsee, "and we need to get you some ear-wood."

Goo da wa, "some what?"

Owsee, "I'll explain it to you later."

I said, "what about the ear-wood in Kitty’s shop.  Can we remove it or will that offend someone?"

Owsee, "ah, let me think, I will need to talk to the Mayor about it.  I think it would be good to bring as much of the old bar as we can to the new one.  It will make people comfortable."

I said, "we better tell Kitty about it before she starts putting up shelves."

Goo da wa, "what's ear-wood?"

Owsee, "tradition, I'll tell you about it on the way to town."

So we drove to town and Owsee told Goo da wa about ear-wood on the way.  We parked in front of Kitty’s shop but she was not there.

Owsee, "I bet she is at the hardware store, take Goo da wa.  That's where you will need to go to get the lights and torches anyway.  I'll go talk to the Mayor."

So Owsee went to see the Mayor well Goo da wa and I went to the hardware store.

Kitty was there and she had bought some freestanding racks and put in an order for a display case.

I told her about the wall and she said, "if it goes I would like to put up mirrors on the wall, the whole wall."

I said, "that sounds good.  Buy anything you need, as I just deposited 200,000 credits in the bank."

She said, "how did you get?  Never mind, I don't want to know."

Goo da wa started talking to the owner of the store about all the things he needed, and they soon went out back to look at something.  And Kitty started to have a nice chat with the salesperson, as they passed ideas back and forth.  So I went out the front door, sat down on a chair, and had a smoke.

Owsee walked up and said that the Mayor thought that moving the ear-wood was a good idea.  Then he asked if Kitty was in the store.

I said, "yes, she is talking with the sales girl and Goo da wa is out back with the owner."

Then he sat down next to me and said, "and you my friend, how is it going with you?"

I said, "I'm starting to feel like I have nothing to do, no projects or goals.  Everybody has a goal but me.  This is a beautiful place, but I don't know my role in it yet."

Owsee, "you mean you feel you should be up there behind the helm of a ship."

I said, "it does feel good don't it.  I mean when you're in control there is nothing else like it, even if it's just a load mover."

Owsee, "Star lust!  I know the signs.  Control is the key, I've been out there a long time myself.  And now you're here, with a family on the way.  It must all seem a bit overwhelming.  But don't worry, you'll find your groove, and I will not let you get too bored.  Even if I have to kick you off the planet from time to time.  As for now, we have two people inside that need our help.  But as long as we are just sitting here, for the time being, how about another poem?"

I said, "that's at least one thing I can do that seems to matter here.  I called this poem, "when I look."

"When I look upon my past, the things that I have done.  The list of my regrets, not outweigh all the fun.  And so upon the memory, of what I may have changed.  I know it'll be da learning, only that I'd arrange.  And so the life lessons, that made me what I am.  Would cause me only wonder, to take some other stand.  Content I must to be myself, at least for present time.  Or else would still need to ask, how long before it's fine?"

Owsee, "yes, you see, when things get quiet you do what you do best, tell a poem; a good poem I may add.  I think we should put this one up on the wall of the new bar.  I've been thinking of hanging up sheets to write on with wood charcoal.  We need to get these people interested in reading, somehow.  But for now, we need to move some ear-wood."

I said, "I will tell Kitty."  And we both went inside.

As soon as Kitty saw me, she asked me to look over the cost of the things she wanted for the shop.  I asked Owsee to look at it.

Owsee said, "I have been gone a long time, I don't know what things should go for around here anymore."

Kitty said that the sales lady had given her a 20% discount because of the size of the order.  I said that sounded good and told Kitty we were going to move the ear-wood as soon as we found Goo da wa.  She said she was going to help the store bring her things over there.

Owsee and I went out back to find Goo da wa still talking to the owner.  We told him we were going to take down the ear-wood, and he said he would be right there.

As we were leaving I asked Owsee if we needed anything from the store to help take down the wood.  He said that in the days when that wood was put up they used tree sap to hold it in place; and that it would be very brittle by now.  He said he had a flat bar in the transport if we need it, so we just headed over there.

When we got to the shop Owsee just hit the wall with his hand and a board came loose.  We had more than half of it down by the time Goo da wa got there.  So he started to load it on the transport.

The job was done in a very short time.

We then drove to the barn and got the generator.  We towed it to one side of the cave entrance and unloaded the ear-wood planks.  Goo da wa said he wanted to set them up himself.  As he was waiting for something from the hardware store, and needed something to do while he waited.  We said fine and went back to Kitty's new shop to see if she needed any help.

When we got there, two men were cutting a large hole in the front of the shop.  They said they were putting in two new showcase windows and a glass door.  Kitty was inside, putting the panels of the mirror on the wall and she asked for some help in doing the top ones.  After the mirror wall was up she said all there was to do until the windows were in was to hang some clothes up, and that she didn't need any help in that.

Owsee said there was a few things he wanted to get done before dark, that we would all meet at the house for supper at sunset and that he was cooking.

After Owsee and I got in the transport, he said that the Mayor told him the best place to set up the clinic.  So we moved the cargo containers to a spot in-between town and the farm.

They opened up, and went together like a giant jigsaw puzzle, and became twice the size of just the three containers.  We put the medical equipment back inside but didn't know just how to set it up.  We still needed a doctor anyway, and there was no power yet, so we went back to the house for a drink.

When we got there, we went down to the cellar to see what was still there.  Owsee had a wall off racks full of different kinds of wine, and said he didn't know how much of it was still good.  Then dusting off a bottle of what he called weed liquor, we took it upstairs.

Owsee, "we make it back fermenting the weed bud and adding a sweet powder.  It sometimes has a pungent odor to it but one hell of a kick."

We sat on the back porch and drank small glasses of it while having a smoke.  The drink had a funny aftertaste, but Owsee said it was still good.

We sat there for a good deal of time talking about all the things that Owsee wanted to see done.  Like cutting down the weed and hanging it up to dry, the trees needed to be cut back, and the barn door had a loose hinge.

He said, "some of these things will not take long but it all adds up."

We sat in silence for a short time then I asked him to tell me about his brothers, and how they died.

Owsee, "all four of us were born just one year apart and I am the youngest.  Each one of us went out into space to learn new stories.  Father always wanted to have a storyteller in the family.  Better to have a handful of credits than a handful of dirt, that's what my father would say.  My oldest brother died in a mining accident, another one a small rock hit his ship, and the last, just a year older than me, died in a bar fight.  My mother died shortly after I was born so I never knew her.  And my father died five years after I got out of school.  I thought I would live and work here for the rest of my life.  But before my father died, of food poisoning, he told me, "go to the stars and listen for the call of opportunity."  That was the last thing he told me, "go to the stars."

I said, "well, you have been there and back.  With lots of stories to tell and credits to spend."

Owsee, "how about your family, are they still living?"

I said, "no, they were all dead before I went to the stars."

Owsee, "so you're just like me I think.  But you have family now, Kitty and the children to come.  You have friends here and this is not such a bad place to live, lots of fresh air and water."

I said, "yes, it's a very nice place to live.  It's a wonderful house and a nice town.  But somehow it’s still like being in a dream.  Everything is so good it don't feel just right.  I'm still waiting for someone to drop a mountain on me."

Owsee, "when you have lived a hard life, happiness can take some time to get used to."

I told Owsee that this weed liqueur was so strong that I could hardly keep my eyes open.  He said let's go inside and do some fire powder to level off, and so we did.

Then we went to the market in town to get what Owsee was making for supper.  As we passed by kitty’s shop we could see the workman just about done with the new window and door.

At the market we bought meat to cook in the backyard fire pit and two large birds, already dressed out.  We got bread, cheese, milk and some vegetables as well.  Before we were done we had two bags full.

We then stopped by kitty’s shop and she said she would be home soon. It was starting to get dark by the time we got home.  Owsee said he was going to see if Goo da wa would be coming soon and that I should start a large fire in the back your pit.  So I put the two bags in the kitchen and went outback to start a fire.

His pit was about 5 feet across with two grills on hinges that folded down from both sides.  The rock was cut stone, a good foot high.

I had no problem finding small twigs and dry wood to start the fire with, and there was cut wood, both on the porch and in a nearby woodshed.  Before long I had a mighty fire going.

Then Kitty walked up from around the house and said, "looks like we are cooking out tonight."

I said, "that's the idea, a barbecue."

She asked what a barbecue was.  I told her it's just another way of saying cooking out, and that Owsee had gone to get Goo da wa.  I then asked how the store was coming along.

She said it was getting there and the display case should be in tomorrow.

I said, "it sounds like the place is getting together fast."

She replied, "yes, it's going much smoother than I thought it would.  But I'll need to make some connections with the local suppliers in the big cities."

I said, "yes, you will need to carry what the locals ware.  It's a good two hour drive to the nearest big town or city.  So if you have what they need, you will be saving people time by coming to you.  Oh, by the way, there is some milk on the counter in the kitchen, along with some other things we bought."

Kitty, "milk, that sounds good."  And she went inside.

I threw another log on the fire and the sparks flew up into the sky.  I could see two moons on the rise, as I noticed Owsee walking up with Goo da wa; saying he could see the fire a mile away.

I replied, "you said to make it big."

Owsee, "yes I did, and before long we will have some nice coals to cook on.  Is kitty here yet?"

I said, "yes, she is in the house."

"No I'm not, I'm right here," she said as she walked out the back door and onto the porch, with a glass of milk in her hand.  "How's the bar coming?"  She asked.

Goo da wa, "it's coming along nicely.  My chip reader should be here tomorrow."

Kitty, "mine too, and my display case as well."

Owsee, "wait till you see what he has done with the place.  It's nothing like the hole in the wall on the station."

Goo da wa, "yeah, now I have a hole in the Mountain, ha ha."

Owsee, "he spent some money on the place, it looks good."

Goo da wa, "I got a 20% discount."

Owsee, "so did Kitty, goes to show you that if you spend a lot they’re willing to show their appreciation."

I said, "money is not everything, but let's not be confused, the things that money cannot buy are very seldom used."

Owsee, "another poem from my teacher.  He never runs out of them, I hope."

I said, "I must admit I did not write that one, but I have always liked it."

Owsee, "oh, Goo da wa, tell him about the projector."

Goo da wa, "I found something very interesting at the lumber and hardware store.  You place a sheet of transparent plastic on a lighted table, that projects what you wrote on it with a grease pen, onto the wall.  The man said he took a few of them in on trade but no one wants them, so I got a good deal on three.  You can put your poems on it to show them on the cave walls."

I said, "sounds a lot like something I had in school.  Yes, that will come in handy."

Owsee, "and there is a hot spring in the back of the cave.  We are going to tap into it to run a thermal generator, as soon as I can find the parts.  Until then we will use the portable generator we parked outside the cave."

Goo da wa, "I’m planning  a big party tomorrow night.  We will invite the whole town.  And the owner of the hardware store said he could get a band for me, with drums, horns and strings.  But I still need to get some barrels of fresh brew."

Owsee, "I think 35 years has made the barrels I had go bad.  But the wind and liqueur should be rather mellow by now."

I said, "Talking about mellow, bring that bottle of Bud liqueur out, that’s mellow."

"Yes," said Owsee, "I have it in the house, I'll bring it out."

Then Owsee went inside and brought the bud liqueur out, turning the porch light on as he did.  He poured each of us a small glass.  Kitty stayed to her milk.

We watched the fire as it burned down to a nice pile of coals, then Owsee started to cook.  He brushed some sauce on the meat as he cooked, which made it smell wonderful.  There was a small table on the porch and Owsee kept bringing plate after plate of cooked food to it, saying, "eat it before it gets cold, there is plenty more."

We ate both bird and beast, as well as some roasted vegetables.  I don't know what they were, but it was all good.

We ate, drank, sat and talked, as the moons rose overhead and the stars twinkle in the clear night sky.  It was a pleasant evening to say the least.

Then Kitty and I went to bed, leaving Owsee and Goo da wa talking on the back porch.

It didn't take long for me to fall asleep, and dream of the children I was about to have; and how they would love this planet as I was beginning to.

“Kitty cooks”

Day 5

I woke to the sound of birds singing and the smell of breakfast.  Kitty was up and cooking in the kitchen.  After washing my face, I went to see what we were having.

Kitty said, "it's a good thing Owsee bought some food for the house, or you boys would be eating fruit from the trees for breakfast."

She was frying some kind of eggs, and there was toast with jam.  She asked me to wake Owsee and Goo da wa, but neither were in their rooms.

I told Kitty, who said, "well they sure got a early start."

"We are back," I heard from the back door.  It was Owsee and Goo da wa with a string of fish each.

"We caught more than we can eat, I think," said Owsee.

Kitty, "we can put the left over’s in the ice box."

But there was enough eggs and bread that we did not cook the fish. After breakfast Kitty asked, "how early do the stores open in town?"

Owsee, "at least another hour, they sleep in because they stay up telling stories."

Kitty, "well then I'm going berry picking."

Owsee, "they are all over the place.  Take the ones near the house first as I'm planning to cut them back soon."

She then grabbed a basket and headed out back.

Owsee, "oh, I should not have gotten up so early, it's going to be a long day I think."

Goo da wa, "I feel the same way after that big breakfast."

I yawned and said, "well, there's always a fire powder."

"Fire powder," they both stood together, as if to agree it's just what they needed.  So we all went to the small bar in the living room and broke it out.  Before long we were wide awake and ready to do some work.

Goo da wa went to town to see if the hardware store was open.  Owsee and I went to run a power line to the new clinic.

As we went to the transport Kitty yelled to Owsee, not to cut the berry bushes until she had a chance to pick them clean; or we would get no pie.

Owsee and I loaded a spool of wire from the barn onto the transport.  The spot where we set up the clinic was close to the power relay station for the town.  We ran the wire out, and Owsee had no trouble hooking it up to an unused breaker.  However, we still could not power up the more advanced equipment; as the large memory chips would break down.  Only small chips would work on this planet, due to the EMP activity.

I asked Owsee how the "World Bank" ran with the problem.

He said, "they built it under the water in the ocean.  It was the only safe place.  Everyone else must use many small chips that don't break down when hit by the pulses."

I said, "how about we use lots of small chips to make a computer with enough memory to download the information from the big chips we have in storage.  It's just a matter of money for the chips.  If you want this equipment to work that is."

He said, "you're right, it's only money.  And I probably made enough, just in interest, while we were talking about it to buy the chips.  All we need to do is find a place that has that many chips.  We will need to fly to the big city, or drive for two hours."

I said, "let's fly."

So we drove to the ship and flue to the nearest city that had a port.  We then went into the first electronics store we came to, and bought out most of their data chips, as well as a number of circuit boards.  Then we flew back and went to work on putting it all together.  The trip only took an hour, but putting things together took two more hours; of our best guess work.  Then we went to the big ship, got the large chips out of storage and took them to the clinic for the download.

Before long, we had things up and running.  We could only hope that it all held together for a long time.  Then we took the large chips back to their storage for safe keeping.  After that we decided to see the Mayor and tell him all we needed now was a doctor.

Owsee said, "it's near midday meal, we will find the Mayor at the restaurant, he eats all his meals there."

As we passed by kitty’s we could see clothing in the window display and people in the shop.

I said, "looks as if she is open for business."

We pulled over by the restaurant and went in.  The Mayor was at his usual table in the back.

We went over and Owsee said, "the clinic’s powered up, and all we need now is a doctor."

Mayor, "will you join me for midday meal?"

Owsee, "of course we will."

So we sat down as the Mayor said, "good news, the city medical registry has a young doctor for us.  He is just out of residents and at its main medical facility.  He is looking for a post, to do his four years of community service at.  He will be here this afternoon to look things over.  If he likes what he sees we have a doctor."

Owsee, "well he could not ask for better equipment.  We ran the power line just a few hours ago.  It still needs to be put under ground so the grass can be cut without damaging the line, but that should not take long."

Mayor, "I have two young boys that are doing community service for killing a Songbird with a slingshot.  I'm sure they would be glad to put your line underground and cut the grass."

Owsee, "thank you Mayor, we appreciate the help."

Mayor, "I hear that Goo da wa is having a party tonight."

Owsee, yes I hear he is going to have a band."

Mayor, "sounds like a good time.  It has been awhile since we had something to celebrate.  I'm hoping most of the town will be there."

The waitress came over and asked if we would like anything.

Owsee said, "they make a great soup here, or least they did 35 years ago."

Waitress, "we still make a great soup, just asked the Mayor."

Mayor, "it's true, and she will not tell me her secret."

"That's how I get him to keep coming back," she said.

"Soup it is," I said.

"Me too," said Owsee.

Mayor, "while you are waiting for your soup, perhaps I can persuade you to share another one of your poems with us."

I said I would be delighted and that this one was called, "remnants of a visit."

"Butts in the ashtray, powder on the floor.

Remnants of a visit, still damp the towel she wore.

Perfume on the pillow, a razor out of place.

Quickly bring back memories, of last I saw her face.

The angel of the doormat, within the car a can.

Surely bring back memories, now were they poor or grand?

Midnight came and gone again, to work I soon must go.

Thinking about what was said, and all that I now know."

The waitress brought us our soup as the Mayor said, "you take memories and tell them in a poetic way.  You express your feelings in short story ways that we do not.  This is a bit new to us, but I like it.  We tell stories about things that happened to others so that those that could not be there will enjoy their moments.  But no one here does it in a poetic way."

I said, "we tell stories like that as well, but they take time to tell.  A poem is like a taste of a moment.  It can be repeated to share a thought, a feeling, or even a lesson."

Mayor, "a taste of a moment, I like that.  I hope we will soon have time to hear a long story from you.  I'm sure I would find it interesting."

I said, "it would be my pleasure."

We then ate our soup.  Owsee was right, they made very good soup.

Then the Mayor excused himself to find the two boys and put them to work.

I asked the waitress where they got their brew.

She said, "as I told Goo da wa, we get it from a man about an hour down the road.  The man from the hardware store brings it by from time to time.  He is the closest one sense Owsee’s father stopped making it."

I then asked her how much we owed.  She said no one that sits with the Mayor pays, he will take care of it.

And Owsee said, "and he will be paying the debt with the poem you gave him.  Pretty smart aye?  Why do you think we made him the Mayor?"

We then went over to kitty’s shop and went in to see how things were going.  The display case with half the length of the shop and filled with things like clothes: shoes, boots, belts, hats and small things like that.  There were a few women in there, looking for something new for the party.  So we just waved hello to Kitty and went to see if Goo da wa needed any help.

As we drove up, we could see he had cleared an area for people to park and raked the entrance to the cave smooth.  He had a number of torches at the entrance, and along the path to the cave.  Come nightfall they would be helpful.  Just inside and to the right, was the bar.  From there, he could see all that came or went.  In the center of the grand hall was a huge fire with large rocks around it.  Goo da wa said he lit it early to see if the smoke would rise, and float out, rather than filling the cave.

He said, "there seems to be some vents at the top.  If you stand outside, and to one side, you can see where the smoke comes out."

There were tree stump tables with have-barrel chairs.  And large cushions around the cave, next to the walls.  He had even built a platform, at one end of the cave, for the musicians.

There were small lamps at each table and a torch on both sides of the stage.  The whole place looked grand, for just a day's work.

We asked him if he got the brew for tonight and he said yes, the man from the hardware store got him a load.

We asked if he needed anything and he said, "not that I can think of.  Everything seems to be falling into place nicely."

So we said we would see him tonight and went back to the house.

We sat down for a beer and a smoke, then started talking about how things were going.

“Time to reflect”

I said, "it seems like they don't need our help anymore."

Owsee, "it only seems that way.  Big things get done because you just can’t ignore them for long.  But there are a lot of little things that will add up over time.  They are the day to day problems that make up life, you will see."

I said, "every day has its own problems, and you can always find something to do if you look for it."

Owsee, "that's why it's nice to take small breaks like this.  To look over what you have done and what else there is still to do.  We all need time to gather our thoughts, and rest from time to time."

I said, "talking about rest, how early did you get up to catch those fish?"

Owsee, "not that long before you, about an hour.  We used my father's old cast net.  Once we found the right spot, on this side of the lake where the fish were, it only took three throws to catch what you saw.  If we put my boat in the water we can catch the big ones.  Some are so large you can feed two or three people with just one fish.  The local boys only fish the river, they will not fish my lake without permission.  Therefore, that lake has had 35 years to produce some big fish.  My father would sometimes smoke them in a barrel over a small fire.  They would have such a wonderful taste to them.  I remember how to do it, but it never came out as well as my father’s.  The farm was hard work, but after 35 years in space I need to say that, I never went hungry here; or thirsty and I never had trouble falling to sleep."

I said, "and we have not had to kill anyone this week.  If we stay out of the big cities we may be able to go a long time without that kind of trouble."

Owsee, "I don't know.  I seem to get drawn into situations like that.  It never seems to be my fault.  Unless it's because I don't like take shit from any one.  What do you think?"

I said, "I think we both don't like to take shit from anyone.  That's why I'm still wearing my Elvin ware under my cloak.  I was the one to sell that last load of water to the station.  Maybe the CM will send an android  after me one day."

Owsee, "you need to do more than screw them over on the price of a tank of water before they send a gun after you.  The corporation is very patient.  They like to wait until a person is far from home and then deny them the use of a Star gate.  I don't think they know you are a Mining Guild member, so that can work for you if you need it one day."

I said, "yes, that's a card I hope not to play until I need it most.  I notice you don't show your hand until the last minute.  Landing here, then telling us you own another mountain."

Owsee, "I wanted to get your reaction first.  I think it's a nice place, but you can never tell what others will think until they see it."

I said, "why did you buy the mountain?"

Owsee, "remember I told you that the planet has a layer of crystals on it, just under the surface?  Well they have no value here, because there is so much of them.  And we have very little space travel because the CM cuts us off at the start gates, just because we will not sell to them.  This makes those crystals worth more than water if you can get them two or three gates from here.  The CM does not want us to flood the market and drive the price down."

I said, "but if we sell a shipload here and there, we can get a good price for them before the CM knows what we are doing."

Owsee, "now you understand why I bought the mountain and the lake, as well as a part of the desert.  One day soon I will take you into those hills and show you how to mine pure crystals."

“What’s up Doc.?”

There was a knock at the door and a hello.  It was the Mayor, with the new doctor.  We both went to the door to greet them.

The Mayor said, "the doctor is ready to see the new clinic, but I thought he should meet you first since it is on your property line, and you built it."

"That was very considerate of you," Owsee said.

After our greetings, we all walked to the clinic just half a mile or so down the road.  There was some small talk about where he had done his residence work, and why he chose to come to a small town to do his community service.

When we got to the clinic Owsee said, "we have not had time to build you a place to live yet, but if you want to get started right away we have an extra room in the house.  First let's show you what we have here."

The doctor walked in and started to look over the supplies and equipment.

Then he said, "what did you do, raid a space station?"

Owsee said, "it was more like salvage."

Dr., "you have a full body scanner, a cryo tube, and nano surgery.  This is better than what the hospital has, how did you get it all to work?"

Owsee, "well, we had to buy a lot of chips and rig a new motherboard, but it came online.  If there is anything else you need just let me know."

Dr., "I can't imagine what else there could be.  You understand it may take a little time for me to learn how to use this kind of equipment."

Owsee, "better you than me doc., by the way, we are having a party tonight.  You're welcome to come and stay the night if you like.  It's a good way to meet people you will be taking care of."

Dr., "yes, I will stay.  As you said, it's a good way to meet people."

"Good to hear it," said the Mayor, "now let's go to my office and I'll show you the contract."

As the Mayor walked off with him, we could hear him say that the town provided room and board as well as a monthly allotment for whatever else may be needed.

We also noticed that the power line had been buried and the grass cut.  There was also a foot wiping mat in front of the door, I thought that was a nice touch.

I asked Owsee how long it would take to build a place for the doctor to live in.

He said, "there is a place, just an hour away up the road, which makes prefab homes.  They can make one in less than a week.  They are not big homes but it will do.  We will put it up right next to the clinic."

I said, "I was thinking of asking him if he had any knowledge of interspecies reproduction."

Owsee, "I doubt it.  The medical community on this planet is not keen on treatment of aliens.  Wait until he gets a good look at Goo da wa, I bet he has never seen anyone like him before, I know I have not."

I said, "where is he from anyway?"

Owsee, "he won't tell me.  I asked him a couple of times and all he will say is that they have never given their planet a name, so no one can find it.  He will not even tell me what system it is in."

I said, "have you noticed he is beginning to lose his color a bit.  He is less orange than before.  I hope he is not sick, that would be one for the new doctor."

Owsee said, "the scanner has him on file.  We could run a comparison if need be, but I have seen him turn almost yellow from time to time.  He told me it depends on how much o2 his skin gets.  Who knows what color he will turn here."

As we got back to the house Owsee said to me, "I have something to show you in the barn."

In one corner, under a large tarp that he pulled off, was what Owsee called his father still.  Next to it, under another tarp, was a winepress.  And on the other side of the barn was Owsee’s boat.

He said, "it's not big, but it floats.  I have had up to five people in her but it's better with just two or three.  The sail is not very tall but it's better than rowing, when there is some wind.  Sometimes I would take her out and just lay back, sleeping the afternoon away; floating in the lake until it was dark.  When I opened my eyes I could see the stars so bright I felt I was among them."

He banged on the side of the boat and said, "I don't see any rot yet.  Only one way to be sure it will not leak, and that is to put her in the water, maybe tomorrow.  But for now let's grab the swing blades and cut some weeds, I want to reclaim some more of the back yard."

So we cut around the house and some of the backyard before we got tired.  Then we gathered up the weed bud stalks and tied them up to dry in the barn.

After that we went into the house to drink some rum with fire powder in it.  Washed it down with a tall mug of beer.  We sat on the sofa for a time, eating some nuts and berries, talking about the little things that needed to be done around the house and yards.

“The party and a power revealed”

Then we heard the drums from the Goo da wa’s bar, just a mile away, and noticed it had gotten dark outside.

I said, "I guess we better head up to the party."

Owsee, "sounds good to me," and we headed out.

As we started toward the caves we could see others on their way as well.  The torches by the cave and on the path were lit, and the people were all carrying things for the party.  The Mayor had two boys pushing a wheel barrel of beast and bird to BBQ.

We followed them to the flickering lights of the cave.  As we walked in the entrance we saw a great fire in the middle, with sparks that rose high toward the cave ceiling.  The ban was slamming out some good tunes, and there was a table at the front end of the bar just waiting for us.  So we sat down at the table that already had a pitcher of beer and two mugs on it.  We drank a beer and said hello to people as they came in.  The band had a rich sound to it from the horns and drums, plus the acoustics gave it a big band sound.

All the tables had their own small lamp, as well as fruit and nuts.  And Goo da wa had set up to overhead projectors, one at each end of the bar.  Each was showing one of my poems on the wall.  High on the wall, toward the middle of the bar, was a large sign that read, "The Poet's Lounge."

Kitty showed up before long and joined us at the table.  People were passing around things they had brought and the smell of meat on the fire was wonderful.  It was not long before someone brought us some.  People were dancing near the stage and around the big fire as the drums rocked the hall.  Goo da wa was opening keg after keg of beer without charge and seemed to be having an excellent time.

The doctor came by our table and said that the town sure knows how to throw a party.  Owsee told him that Goo da wa would be staying here tonight and that he was welcome to any of the upstairs rooms at the house.  He thanked us and went to dance with someone.

I asked kitty if she would like to dance.  She's said she only liked slow dancing, but this was fun to watch.  She had worn a white gown cut in the Roman style with one arm and shoulder bare.  She also had her jeweled collar on, I'm sure most didn't know what it meant but it looked great and so did she.

Then I felt strange, as if there was danger.  I turned my telekinetic device on, not knowing what was about to happen.  Then I could see a large rock, about 6 feet across, was coming loose from the top of the grand hall.  It started to fall toward the great fire pit in the center of the room.  I reached out with my hand and mind, grabbing it and held it for moment.  Then I set it down next to the fire pit as people moved out of the way.  Feeling tired I sat back down, and turned my device off.

The drums had stopped and there was a dull murmuring from the

crowd.  Then someone said to the band to play on, and the music started again.

Owsee said, "that was a lot of control, I did not know you could do that."

I said, "neither did I."

Owsee, "if a rock that big had hit the fire pit there would have been a shower of fire all over this cave.  A love of people would have been hurt.  How did you know it was going to fall?"

I said, "I just had a feeling, that's all."

Owsee, "well here's to your feelings, may they never let you down."

And we toasted with the rum Goo da wa had saved just for us.

Kitty asked, "are you feeling all right?"

I said, "it takes a lot out of me each time, but I'll be all right in a few moments."

Owsee put a large pinch of fire powder in a shot of rum.  Then stirring it well gave it to me and said, "this will fix you up."

I said, "I didn't want this power to be known, and now the whole town will be talking about it.  It’s sure to bring some unwanted attention."

Owsee, "maybe we could ask the Mayor to tell people to keep it a town secret."

I said, "a secret is the power of knowledge just waiting for the highest bidder.  And a story is only forgotten when everyone thinks that everyone else has already heard it."

Kitty, "so the best thing to do is nothing and just watch your back."

I said, "that's right kitty, just like on the station."

We ate, drank and talked as the time went by.

The doctor left before it was very late, thanking us for the room for the night.  However, Owsee, Kitty and I stayed as one by one the rest of the town went home.

It was only a few hours before dawn by the time we went home.  Goo da wa stayed at his new home, the bar.

After the three of us walked home, we went to bed with no more than a quick goodnight.

“The day after”

Day 6

The mornings seem to come only minutes away.  I thought the bird I heard was a Nightingale, but then I remembered I was not on Earth.  I opened my eyes to see Kitty lying next to me with her eyes open too.

I said, "I'll go back to sleep if you will."

She said, "I have a store to run," with a yawn in her voice.

She gave me a quick kiss and rolled out of bed.  I was going to go back to sleep for a bit but heard Owsee in the kitchen talking to Kitty.  So I got out of bed and went to the kitchen to see what was for breakfast.  We were having the fish that had been caught the other day.  Owsee was drinking a brew he'd made from some black and green beans he ground-up and boiled, then added some sweet tree sap and milk to it.  He said it was a traditional after party drink and gave me a cup of it.  The taste was like old been juice with honey, and I didn’t like it much, so I drank it down fast.

Owsee asked if I would like some more but I said no thank you.  I asked him if he still wanted to go fishing and he said, "you bet, right after breakfast."

Them I asked if the doctor was still in bed.

Owsee said, "no, he went to town to send for his things and to eat at the restaurant.  He said he had a request to make of the Mayor, about the new house."

I said, "so it's the town that is providing him with a house, not you."

Owsee, "yes, he is now part of the town and they will take care of him for the next four years at least."

I said, "so what happens then?"

Owsee, "he will stay or we will get another doctor."

That was all we said about the matter, and not much else was said during breakfast.

Then Kitty went to her new store while Owsee and I got the boat out of the barn.  We put a large net and some wine in the boat and took it to the lake.  We put the boat in the water, and after Owsee was sure there was no leaks we sailed to the middle of the lake.

The lake was small enough that we could still see the shore.  Which was a great comfort to me as we were in a rather small boat, at least it seem that way to me.  Anything too small to stand up and walk around on is a small boat to me.

We put our sails down and let out the net.

Owsee said, "now we just sit back and wait until the net is full."

He opened the bottle of wine and emptied it into the large mugs he had brought.  It was a berry wine, a little tart with a sweet aftertaste.  Our mugs were empty in a short time so we opened the other bottle.  It was another berry wine but sweeter with a flowery aftertaste, I enjoyed it.  I drank this one a little slower, but before long the both of us were asleep and adrift in the currents of the lake.

By the time we woke up it was afternoon and we had drifted back to the shore where we put the boat in this morning, not far from the trailer.  The net was heavy, so much so that we pulled it in from on shore.  There were so many fish in the net that we were soon throwing back the small ones.  Even though we just kept the big ones the boat was still filled by the time the net was empty.  To keep them all in the boat we even had to put the net on top.

I said, "is your walk-in freezer big enough for all these fish?"

Owsee, "yes, but if we take them all home we will have no reason to go fishing again for a long time.  Besides, it would take the rest of the day to clean them all, it's better to sell some."

So we drove to town and pulled up behind the dinner.

Owsee asked me to go in and ask if they wanted any fish well he took off the net.

The woman said yes and we came out the back door to see Owsee pulling  the net off and saying, "we caught some fish."

She said, "well I guess you did, I'll take half."

Then she brought out a tarp, and laid it down for us to put the fish on until the boat was half empty.

"I'll deal with you later when I have had a chance to weigh them," she said.  So we drove home with the rest.

We made a place to work in the barn, and after a good deal of work, we got them all cleaned.  We then started bringing the fish to the walk-in freezer in the cellar.

Owsee, "good thing I turn this thing on yesterday, it's good and cold now."

We dipped the fish in clean water and laid them on the racks to freeze them.  It was a good thing the racks were close together or we would have run out of room.

After getting cleaned up a bit we went to see how Goo da wa was doing.  The place had been cleaned up and he was taken a nap.

He woke up to the some of us coming in and said, "that was sure one hell of a party last night."  Yes it sure was, we said.

Goo da wa, "by the way, I'm looking to buy a force field for the front of the cave."

Owsee said, "I think I have the parts on the big ship.  And I'll scrounge up a thermal generator while I'm at it."

I said, "I see that stone is still there."

Goo da wa said, "yes, I was thinking of moving it but some people said it should stay there as a reminder of what happened."

I said, "we don't need a reminder, better if it was forgotten."

And with that I stretched out my hand and move the rock outside.

Owsee said, "I didn't see you turn your device on."

I looked down at my hand and the light in the gem was on, then it turned off by itself.

Goo da wa, "it's responding to his wish to be used now."

Owsee, "yes, try to reach out and crush that rocked into small bits of stone."

So I reached out with my hand and mind while trying to envision it breaking like sandstone between my fingers.  The light came on in my ring and the large rock broke into many small bits of stone.  Then the telekinetic enhancer turned itself off again.

Owsee, "amazing, how do you feel?"

I said, "I feel fine, not tired at all."

Owsee, "remember what the man at the store said, it only enhances your abilities.  Before long, you may not even need the device."

I said, "it's still good for opening locked doors."

Owsee, "maybe one day you will not need it for that either."

Owsee and I flew in my ship to his ship in the desert.  Finding the parts we needed was not hard but it took a while to load them all onto my ship, then there was the unload at the cave.  There were many small parts.

Goo da wa used a 3 foot wide lift plate to stand on while putting the parts in place on the top of the mouth of the cave entrance.  I had never seen an antigravity lift plate before.  Owsee said he took it in trade for some repairs he did on someone's ship, and it was the only one he had ever seen.

We handed the parts to Goo da wa and he put the reflector plates in place.  With the help of the lift it did not take long to get it working.  Owsee asked Goo da wa if he would like to come to the house for a meal.

He said, "no, people may be coming back soon and I want to be open.  Besides I have lots of leftovers from last night.  Enough to last me a month."

We said we would see him later and flew the ship back over to the lake.  It was starting to get dark as we walked home from the lake.  And we could see Goo da wa lighting his torches.

When Owsee and I got home we sat on the porch with mugs of beer and smoke our pipes as we watched the last rays of the sun set behind the mountain.  It had been a full day, despite the time we spent napping.

"What's the plan for tomorrow?"  I asked.

Owsee, "I want to take you mining on the backside of the mountain.  I also want to finish picking all the berry bushes that are next to the house, so I can cut them down.

I said, "there does seem to be a lot of them in other places."

Owsee, "there are so many next to the orchard that you could pick all day, all year around, and never picked them all.  But they have those little pickers, and I don't want them pricking me when I try to sit on the side of my porch, your porch, I forgot for a moment I gave the house to you.  Maybe you like them where they are."

I said, "if the bushes are pricking my good friends then they got to go.  That's assuming we have permission to pick around the orchard."

Owsee, "of course you have my permission, and with a little work we can make this a working farm again.  Or at least as much as we want to, farming for living is hard work.  But if you're just doing it for yourself it can be satisfied."

I said, "I can use all the help I can get.  And you should feel that this is still your place, and that there will always be a room and a meal for you."

Owsee, "I appreciate that.  But the barn is big enough for me, once I get around to building a room in the loft.  It never gets any colder than it is right now, and there are lots of things around the farm to keep me busy, when I’m not working as a storyteller.  That's another good thing about me living out there, I could stay up late telling stories and not be bothering you.  I may even make some more wine."

I said, "or maybe some of that bud liqueur."

Owsee, "yes, I may make some of that as well.  And I'll tell you something, that I think you will understand without being offended.  Sometimes I just need my own space to think, I think you are the same way."

I said, "I know what you mean.  With the children coming even a large house like this will seem small at times.  I may wish to sleep in the barn from time to time myself."

Owsee, "you will always be welcome."

There was still enough light that we could see Kitty and the doctor coming from town.  I tuned in my earpiece, but only heard some small talk about how nice the town was.

Owsee said, "Kitty is going to flip when she sees how much fish we have."

In a short while Kitty and the doctor were walking out of the shadows and into the light of the porch.

Kitty said, "I invited the doc for supper," and they went inside, each with a bag of food in their arms.  Owsee and I followed.

Kitty, "one of the women in town gave me a recipe for something called smorgesh pie.  That's what we are heaven for supper."

It was then I realized I was hearing her through the translator in my ear, and we may not be having pie for supper at all, so I asked what was in it.

She replied, "all this stuff, now you boys go sit and talk while I get to work."

I saw a number of things she had bought that didn't look like the fixings for a pie, unless it was a pizza pie.  We went out to the porch and I asked Owsee if you knew what smorgesh pie was.

He said, "yes, it's good, lots of things in or on it.  You start with a flower shell and put sauce, meat, vegetables and cheese on it, then you bake it."

I said, "maybe I'm just thrown off by the name pie.  To me a pie is something with berries in it and a crust on top."

Owsee, "you can make it with a crust on top, but most of the time we don't."

After lighting my pipe I said, "so how was your day doc?"

He said, "many things from the city came and the Mayor told me they will start bringing parts of my new house tomorrow.  You may also like to know that I scanned Kitty and she will be having twins, a boy and a girl."

Owsee, "Twins, ah I told you it would most likely be twins."

I said, "you said it could even be quintuplets."

Owsee, "yes, but this being her first time it would most likely twins."

Dr., "it's her first time?  I'll need to download everything I can find out about her kind."

Owsee, "good luck.  They don't share medical information off world.  But I can tell you she will have them in three to five weeks."

Doc, "that soon?  Well maybe she should start to think about getting off her more."

I said, "I doubt you can keep that one off her feet for long doc."

Owsee, "that's right.  These Catalacks will work right up to the last minute, then after they give birth they are back on their feet and ready to go again."

The doctor said, "sounds like they have an easy birth."

Owsee, "not according to the women, but by our standards -- yes."

I said, "and their young grow up in a year."

"Remarkable," the doctor said.

I then asked the doctor if he would like a smoke.

He said, "no thank you.  I have sworn an oath to not smoke or drink until my four years are up to the community.  I may be called upon at any time and must be at my best.  There is no one to take over for me here so I can't incapacitate myself in any way."

I said, "yes, this stuff will make you drowsy.  But we have a cure for that, it's called fire water powder."

He said he had never heard of it and asked what it was.  So we took him inside, to the small bar, and broke some out.

Owsee said, "it's like bean juice in the morning but with a bigger kick."

Owsee put some in a small glass of water for him and some in small glasses of bud liqueur for us, then we drank it down.

Owsee then put some on the bar and said, "taste it."

The doc put a wet finger to it, then his tongue, and said, "it's not bitter, but my lips feel a little numb."

"Try it this way," Owsee said, and he made some lines out of the pile, then we snorted them up.  Before long we were all feeling wide-awake.

"You're right," said the doc, "it does have a bigger kick than been juice.  With this I could get drunk and wake up again."

And I said, "well, it will keep your eyes open but you would still be drunk.  If you want to go from all fucked up to sober you need detox water."

Owsee, "yes, detox water.  I think we have about two cases.  It's hard to come by but it works."

The doctor asked what it does and I said, "it takes all the bad things out of your body and works in just a few minutes."

Owsee, "you can go from drunk to sober in just five minutes with detox water.  But it's hard to get at it puts a strain on your body, you can't use it every day.  And I will only hand it out if there is a great need."

Doc, "sounds like great stuff, but it is no reason for me to break my vows."

Owsee, "you're absolutely right.  Don't let us be a bad influence on you.  After all, we are not doctors,  we are storytellers.  And everyone knows the best stories are told by old men with a pipe in one hand and a drink in the other."

"Old man," I said, "speak for yourself."

Owsee, "I was, and I said the best storytellers."

I said, "I can live with that, after all I count myself as a writer first."

Owsee then said, "something sure smells good from the kitchen."

Kitty, "it needs to bake.  Did the doc tell you I'm having twins?"

I said, "yes, that's wonderful."

Kitty, "sorry it's not quintuplets."

I said, "two is just fine to start with.  Have you looked in the walk-in freezer since you have been home?"

Kitty, "no, why?"

Owsee, "we caught some fish for you, go see how many are in the freezer."

So she went downstairs, and when she came back she said, "well I guess you did go fishing.  What did you do, bomb the lake then net the fish?"

I said, "no, we got bombed in the lake while netting the fish."

Kitty, "well we won't run out of fish for some time."

Owsee, "and that's only half of what we caught .  We sold the rest to the restaurant."

Kitty, "when you men go fishing you don't kid around."

"Do you like to go fishing?"  I asked the doc..

He said, "yes, but I don't get to go very often."

I said, "the lake is just behind us.  It's close enough for someone to get you if need be, and Owsee has a boat."

Owsee, "yes, you are welcome to use it anytime."

Dr., "well maybe after I get settled down a bit.  The first month I will be trying to get to know everybody, and see how they are doing.  Because we are two hours from the nearest clinic, I bet there are many people that have been putting off seeing a doctor.  It's best I see them as soon as I can.  Once I have given everyone a checkup I will think about fishing."

Owsee, "and that's why we need a doctor here.  Not because people are sick, but to keep them well."

We sat and talked as our supper baked.  The smell just about had us drooling.

Then Kitty said it was done and she cut it into four pieces and put it on plates for us.  It looked, smelled and tasted like pizza.  To think, I spent 30 years of traveling through space to fine my favorite food out here on this planet.  I told Kitty this was like a food I liked back on earth.  She said that was good and that she had a number of things she wanted to try.

After supper we sat on the porch for time, then the doc said he needed to get some rest.  Kitty  said she was tired too but was not ready for bed.  I said I wanted to go see if Goo da wa had made any progress with the thermal energy converter, and Owsee said he wanted to go see as well.

Kitty said, "you two go ahead, I just want to sit here for a while."

So Owsee and I went to the cave.  Goo da wa had a few customers and looked as if he was enjoying himself.  We asked how the T.E.C. was coming.  He said he had all the parts put together but wanted to wait until tomorrow to test it.

I noticed Goo da wa had two overhead projectors going at the end of the bar.  One had the alphabet on it, the other a short poem.  Three men were working on sounding out letters and words.

I asked Goo da wa what was going on and he said, "we are learning how to read.  I plan to change the poem each day.  They come for the words and pay for the brew, but I will need more poems than I have, I will give you a cut of the profits."

I said, "no need for that, you are welcome to as many poems as I can think of.  I'm just glad it's working for you."

Goo da wa, "and I want it to keep working.  Paying for words is the way these people run their lives, and soon you will be the hottest thing on the market.  I want in on the ground floor, I'm sure Owsee will agree that your poems are worth paying for."

Owsee, "he has got you there, I keep telling you your stories are going to be worth a lot.  Before long people will be coming from the city, two hours away, to see what the poem of the day is.  And they will not just spend their credits here, they will spend in the town as well, everyone will benefit from this."

I said, "I know you have a grand vision, but right now all I see is a few locals learning to read."

Owsee, "that's right, just a few for now.  But it will grow like a fire, I'm sure of it."

I said, "well, your fire would grow faster if we had some paper to write on.  At the moment all we have is those projectors to work with, and you can't walk around with one of them under your arm."

Then Goo da wa said, "look at this."  And he pulled out a piece of paper with a sticky side to it.  He slapped it on the wall and made a letter “A” on it with some charcoal.

Owsee, "yes it's sticky side."

Goo da wa, "they use it to catch flies, but what if it had no sticky side to it?"

I felt it and said, "paper, don't you get it Owsee its paper."

Owsee, "okay so its paper.  Now what do we do, stick it on the walls and right on them?"

I said, "first we need to find out who makes the stuff, and get a lot of it with no sticky side.  I don't think I can explain to you how big this is.  With paper words can travel far and wide.  Before long, people all over your world will be learned to read.  One day they will say it all started here, in a place called the poet's lounge; when a fad called reading took the world by surprise and found its way into everyone's home."

Owsee, "you know, I think he's finally getting excited over something."

Goo da wa, "and all it took was a piece of paper."

He then handed me a small mug of bud liqueur.  I drink it right down without thinking and Goo da wa said, "oh dear, that was."

Owsee, "I know what that was.  I better get him home before he can no longer walk."

I said, "don't worry about me, I feel fine."

Owsee, "you will not in five minutes or so, let's go home."

I said, "okay, I'll see you tomorrow Goo da wa, goodnight."

Goo da wa, "goodnight teacher."

“Paper day”

Day 7

I remembered the walk home and saying goodnight to Kitty on the porch, then walking into the bedroom, but not taking off my boots.  Yet in the morning, there I was in bed without my boots.

I could smell fish cooking, so I put my boots on and went to the dining room table.

I said to Kitty, "is anyone else up yet?"

Kitty, "not yet.  There is fresh juice on the table."

I said that sounded good and poured myself a glass.  Owsee and the doctor soon joined me as Kitty put breakfast on the table.

Kitty asked what everyone was up to today, and the doctor said he was hoping to do some physical examinations.  I said Owsee and I were going to find some paper.

Kitty, "and what do you do with this paper?"

I said, "you're right on it, but you don't need a projector to read it."

Kitty, "that sounds handy."

I said, "yes, it will be."

I asked Owsee how many languages are spoken on this planet?

Owsee, "well let's see now, there is the word of the world that everyone learns in school, and then there are four main languages with up to five variations; dependent on where you live."

I said, "do you learn them all?"

Owsee, "no, we learn the word of the world and our local language.  As for the others some use their wrist translators, it's also a timepiece."

I said, "can the wrist translators hold one more download, like English?"

Owsee, "I think so, why?"

I said, "because I plan to give a free download of my language to everyone that comes into the bar.  This way they will be able to enjoy listening to a poem.  It may help encourage others to learn to read.  Your people have very good memories so it will be easy for them to learn."

Owsee, "that's true.  Most of us learn hundreds of stories, just because it is what we like to do."

I said, "and with paper people can read what is written, anywhere, anytime.  This is how I'm going to record my stories, so people can either learn to read or wait for a storyteller that can."

Dr., "well it all sounds very promising, and I'm eager to see how it turns out, but for right now I must get to work."

He thanked Kitty for the meal and left for the clinic.

As Owsee and I cleaned our plates, Kitty said, "I need to be off as well, see you later."

Owsee then said to me, "okay, how do we find this paper?"

I said, "we start at the hardware store."

So that's where we went.  The man there said he got his sticky paper from a farmer that lived an hour down the road.  He gave us a name and directions to his house.

I said to Owsee, "do you think we should take my ship to save time?"

He said, "I know this man, and if we try to land near his place he will shoot at us.  But I do have something faster than the old transport, it's in the barn."

So we went to the barn, and in one corner under a tarp was a homemade hot rod of sorts.

Owsee, "I built it when I was young.  You can drive or fly it, but it's safer to fly because it's so fast.  So fast that that old man will not be able to shoot us down."

I said, "you always seem to have the best toys."

We got in and closed the glass dome.  He drove it outside then hit the thrusters and deployed the wings.  We were a hundred feet down the road and fifty off the ground before I could even say, "that's a kick."

Owsee said, "she kicks like a son of a bitch, but she is the fastest thing I have ever built, hold on."

And he kicked it into a supersonic, I heard the boom.  The hot rod started to shake a bit as he said, "I better drop it down a bit or we will overshoot the place."

Soon he saw what we were looking for and cut the booster.  We then made a wide glide down to the road at 90 plus miles per hour.

As we pulled up to the place an old man sitting on his porch said, "Owsee wa sphere, you're lucky I didn't shoot you, swooping down on a body like that."

Owsee, "you never could shoot straight, besides, I'm too fast for you."

Old man, "did you come on business or should I just shoot you now?"

Owsee, "we want some of your paper before you give it the sticky side."

Old man, "before you say, it's in the bar."  He pointed as he got up to walk with us, while saying, "flying cars that should be on the ground and sticky paper with no stick, you're up to no good I can just feel it."

Owsee, "every time you see me you say I'm up to no good."

Old man, "and was I right?"

Owsee, "of course you were."

Old man, "you see.  What do you want with no sticky paper anyway?"

Owsee, "we are going to write on it."

Old man, "sounds like you're up to no good to me.  There it is, how many rolls do you want?"

Owsee, "we can fit three.  How much do you want for them?"

He said, "50 credits a roll."

Owsee, "twenty-five."

He said, "35 and you promise never to fly over my land again."

Owsee said it was the deal.

We paid the man, loaded up the flyer and left.

Owsee just had to dive over his house as we left, I swear I heard a shot.

When we got home I was glad he left the barn door open, because even with the brakes on full we didn’t come to a stop until we were well inside.

He opened the hatch top and said, "not bad for something built by a teenager."

I said, "and you still drive like one."

We unloaded the paper and I said, "now I need ink and a quill."

Owsee, "I can get ink, we use it to die clothes, but my translator has no word for quill."

I said, "we can use the tail feather from a large bird."

Owsee, "I can get that, how many do you want?"

I said, "at least three or four to start with, more later."

Owsee, "I'll get the ink and quills while you cut the paper, but first we should celebrate getting home in one piece."

I said, "I'm up for that, but don't you think we have been doing a lot of celebrate in this past week?"

Owsee, "you're right, I have been a bad influence on you."

I said, "it's not that, it's just that I like to slow down a bit from time to time."

Owsee, "you're right, how about just a beer to cool off with?"

I said, "a beer sounds good to me."

Owsee, "okay, you figure out how to cut the paper and I'll get us some beer."

There was a tall vice at the corner of one table.  I put a short pipe in it and hung the roll of paper there, so I could poll and lay out a sheet on the table.  On the other end of the table I drove a nail on either side and ran a thin wire between them.  Pulling the paper to the size I wanted, I gave it a quick tug up, and it cut just right.  I had just finished it when Owsee came back with the beer.  I took the mug with one hand while cutting a sheet of paper with the other.

Owsee, "that's pretty clever, and it didn't take long to make."

We drank our beer, then Owsee went to get the ink and tail feathers while I cut more paper.

By the time I had just 50 sheet done I needed another beer, so I went to the house.  I decided to have rum with a pinch of fire powder in it as well.  Then it was back to the barn to cut more paper.

After another 50 sheets I sat down with my beer and lit my pipe.  I began to think about how time seems to drag when Owsee is not around, or anyone else to talk to for that matter.  I guess those three weeks in space by myself made me appreciate the sound of others.

But before long my twins will be born and I doubt there will be much alone time, or quiet, after that.  So I guess I should just try to enjoy the silence while I can.  I thought to myself, children that grow up in just one year, ah, that must be one intense year.  I took the 100 sheets of paper and the roll to the house, and put them on the porch.  Then I went inside to make myself another drink, while thinking to myself about what I said to Owsee about partying too much.  I know that kitty doesn't like to see me drink too much.  Maybe it's because she thinks I may not be able to defend myself if danger comes my way, but I can't let it bother me.  I need to live in the moment but plan for tomorrow, like Owsee.  He always seems to have just one more plant up his sleeve.

As I walked back out to the porch with my drink I could see Owsee coming.  He held up a bottle of ink and a handful of feathers.  I raised my mug to him, then waited until he got closer before I said, "you found ink?"

Owsee, "I have both red and black, and your feathers."

The ink came in a large bottle, maybe a gallon, and the feathers look like they may have been pulled from a bird as big as a turkey.

I said, "good, let's get this stuff up to Goo da wa."

When we got to the cave and called out to him a reply came from above, "up here."

He was on the hover plate, high above us, looking for any more loose rocks.

I said, "we have paper."

Owsee, "and ink."

Goo da wa came down and the three of us went over to the bar.  I asked for a shot glass and we put some ink in it.  I then cut the tip of my feather off, dipped it in ink and began to write the alphabet on a sheet of paper.  I said they should try it, and they each made their quill then started to do the same.  I watched as they wrote the whole alphabet down and said, "not bad for a first try."

I then told Goo da wa about my idea of giving all his customers a download of my language, as well as a sheet of paper with the other alphabet on it and how to pronounce it.

Owsee, "and maybe a copy of a poem on the back."

I said, "we should also put the name of the bar on it."

Goo da wa, "so people will know where to get a drink and another poem."

I said, "you never know how far a sheet of paper can go."

Goo da wa, "yes, it will be good advertisement."

Owsee, "how many do you think you will need for tonight?"

Goo da wa, "let's see, last night I had 30 people, I don't think I'll do much better tonight."

I asked if he needed any help with the writing, but he said he had plenty of time and could use the practice.  I then asked how the thermal generator was doing.

Goo da wa, "it's working just fine, but I would like to keep the other one for a short time to be sure."

Owsee, "no problem, keep it as long as you like, I have no need for it at the moment.  Right now I would like to take Nibor across the mountain to show him a few things."

Goo da wa, "have a safe trip, see you later."

“Cristal clear”

Owsee and I went to my ship and headed over the mountain.

He said, "look close, this is not just one mountain, it's more like five in the same place.  And in the center is a lake from the runoff.  It's at least 100 feet deep, I'm sure of it, as I took a reading once.  Remember I told you that there is a layer of crystal just underneath the surface?  Land over by my ship, I want to show you something."

So we landed, and leaving my ship he said, "blast that side of the mountain, if you can."

So I looked at my hand and thought about using the power of the enhancer, the light came on.  Then I looked at the side of the mountain while raising my hand, and bam!  It was like a sonic wave hit the mountain.

We waited for the dust to clear as Owsee started saying, "wait for it, wait for it, there!  Look at that."

The whole side of the mountain was covered with crystals shining like a fortune in the sun.

Owsee, "if I brought a crew in here to mine and sell it on the open market the CM would send a killer after me for sure.  But if someone was to just run a load to sell to the Pirates past station E3, now and then, they may go unnoticed.  There is a loader on my ship you can use to fill the cargo containers with.  And I can show you how to fill up on water from the lake.  It's always good to have some water to sell.  What do you think?  Does it look like a part-time job you would like to do?"

I said, "what is my cut?"

Owsee, "let's see, your cut, how about 100%.  If you can help the stations, and screw the CM at the same time, you're welcome to the use of my ship; as well as all the water and crystals you can sell.  But I still want you to teach my world to read, once you have done that you can have my big ship."

I said, "that's going to take some time, I'm not sure I can do it in one lifetime, but I would be happy to give it a try.  With your help we may be able to reach most of the world at least."

Owsee, "well when you're not teaching or writing you may as well be making a few credits.  I'm thinking you could make one or two trips a month and go a different way each time.  You sell water to the station and crystals to the smugglers, which take them someplace else to cut them.  The water will keep the station on your side while you deal with the smuggler's."

I said, "I'll need a cover story, I can't tell people I'm going off each day to do some mining."

Owsee, "we will tell them you go off to be by yourself to write stories, they will buy that.  But for now let's go back to the house, I missed my mid-day meal."

So we went back to the ship and flew over the mountains to the green by the lake.  On the way home Owsee told me about his grandfather, and how he died in the service of the, "Planet Protection Corps."  He told me how the P.P.C. drove the CM off the planet and back into space, but it cost a lot of lives.  We both talked about how bad it is on some of the space stations, because the CM will not let them have enough water, we had both seen a lot of that.

When we got to the house Owsee said, "I think you will join me in a drink to what you have seen on the other side of the mountain."

I said I would and he poured me half a mug of the orange rum with a big pinch of fire powder in it.

I said, "aren’t we hitting it a bit hard for so early in the day?"

He said, "yes we are, let's be bad.  I have two cases of detection water if we need one, so I don't care.  I want to celebrate what you found on the other side of the mountain and I'm not talking about crystals, you know what I'm talking about."

I said, "screwing the CM."

Owsee, "that's what I'm talking about, but we got to keep it all a secret."

I said, "here's to the secret."

"To the secret," he said, and we drank our rum.

Owsee, "you know, before you I never drank rum.  It was always spice dew or nothing.  I wanted to get off that rock and into space where I felt free, even if it was just for a short while."

I said, "but it was not just space that made you feel free."

Owsee, "no, it was killing that C.M.A. and selling that water.  They made me feel like I was doing something to help others.  Then there was starting the new clinic, helping Goo da wa get the bar going, kitty her shop, and given you something more to do.  It all felt good."

I said, "I'll drink to that."

Owsee, "to what?"

"To feeling good," I said.

Owsee, "oh, you want to drink to feel good do you.  Well I have a bottle right here with some feel good juice in it."

I said, "not the bud liqueur."

Owsee, "yes, the bud liqueur.  Do you think you can handle it?"

I said, "if I drink it slowly this time."

Owsee poured me a double in a small glass.  We drank as we smoked and talked about what else we could do to promote reading and writing.

I said, "the children are always the best place to start.  But that will take some help from the Mayor if we are talking about a school program.  How to sell it to him is the question."

Owsee, "we give them something."

I said, "yes, but what?  It must not be too big or all the schools will not be able to follow, we want to start a trend."

Owsee, "new computers for the school and a day trip to the Crystal caves by the seashore."

I said, "now that sounds good.  But there should be some kind of test.  Like knowing the alphabet and the sound of each letter."

Owsee, "that's too easy, they can do that in less than an hour, make them write something."

I said, "like what?"

Owsee, "I don't know, anything they want as long as they are not copying each other."

I said, "that sounds good, but no one fails no matter what they write."

Owsee, "no matter what they write, sure, as long as they can read it back."

I said, "okay you sell it to the Mayor."

Owsee, "why do I have to sell it?  Why not you?"

I said, "because you are a community leader and a storyteller, I’m just a newcomer with strange powers."

Owsee, "I see your point, and I'll pay for the trip and the new computers for the school.  I’m glad to be able to give back to the town."

I said, "that's fine with me.  By the way, do all the children have wrist translators?"

Owsee, "I don't think so.  Most of the time they only leave the town with their parents, so there is no need."

I said, "there is now.  All the children get new translators at the first lesson and let them be from me."

Owsee, "you don't have two spend your credits, I'll buy them."

I said, "are you, or are you not, trying to make me is so rich that I will not be able to spend it all?"

Owsee, "I would hope to make you as rich as me someday."

I said, "well then let me do this small thing.  I think it will go a long way toward letting them know I am a part of the community now.  My children will be going to that school as well, you know."

Owsee, "you're right, I should have seen it right off, you need to bond with the town.  After all it's only money, and you are just a day away from a water run that will put another 200,000 in your hands, plus 10 times that for the crystals."

I said, "so let's spread the wealth around a bit, but not so heavy that others resent it."

I finished my shot them said, "that's enough of this stuff, I'm switching the beer for a while."

We sat on the porch eating some bread and cheese as the afternoon wore on.  Then we saw a large truck towing half a house up to the clinic.  They were half a mile away, mind you, but we could still make out what they were doing.

I said to Owsee, "should we go down there?"

He said, "no, let's watch them from here, they know what they are doing."

A few moments later the doc was standing outside as they backed the half of a house right up to the side of the clinic.  As soon as the first truck pulled away another one drove up, and backed up with the other side of the house.  They parked it so close you could not tell it was ever in two.  The crew of men started working inside and out to join the halves together.  Soon one more truck pulled up with a front porch and slipped it into place.  Before long, the men were gone and the house was ready for the doctor.

Then Owsee said, "now we go see our new neighbor."

As we were walking over the doctor came out of the house with a chair.  He put it on the porch and sat down as we were walking up.

Owsee said, "well doc, what do you think of your new house?"

Doctor, "I didn’t think they would have it built so fast, let alone be able to put it together and hook it up to the power and water; I thought another day for that at least."

Owsee, "well they know what they are doing, that's for sure.  And you’re near the town’s water and power supply, so that always helps."

Dr., "well they sure are fast, and they do a good job."

Owsee, "that they do.  I see you got yourself a porch, was that the extra you needed to talk to the Mayor about?"

Dr., "yes, I thought it was in good standing with the community view and a way of life here."

Owsee, "yes, but you need more chairs, and a shade tree I think.  Still you are off to a good start for your first week here."

Dr., "having a house in less than a week is a very good start."

Owsee, "yes it is.  Now we need to throw a house warming party, so you can meet more of the townspeople and their children.  This is something that is best left for the Mayor to do."

Dr., "that sounds like a good idea, I need to get to know more of the town and as soon as I can."

Owsee, "yes, well if you need something or would like to come to supper one day, feel free to stop by."

Owsee and I then headed back to the farm as the doctor yelled out, "thanks for stopping by."

I started to think about how the doctor's house was tapped into the power from the clinic, which was tapped into the town's power supply, and wondered where it all came from.

I asked Owsee who said, "we have wind generators on the hill and most of the houses have solar power cells on their roofs.  However, when the wind don’t blow on a cloudy day the power is not study.  The med lab may not have the power it needs when it needs it.  That is why I want to drill a Geo thermal well for more power."

I said, "can we tapped into Goo da wa’s?"

Owsee, "his is not big enough, but I have someone coming to drill a well.  It's just a matter of when he can get here.  He is doing one just three hours away, and as soon as he is done, he will come by to get started on our.  When it comes to this kind of work you want someone that knows what they are doing."

I said, "do you know where it will be?"

Owsee, "we had a survey done when I was a young boy, they were talking about putting it next to the barn.  But it never got done, too many credits I think."

I said, "Will we be able to tap into it to recharge the power cells on my ship?"

Owsee, "you read my mind.  I plan to have two generators so I can tap into the power without disrupting the flow to the town.  Plus it's good to have a backup in case we need to work on one of the generators."

I said, "I'll drink to that."

Owsee said, "I hoped you would," and we went inside.

He pored each of us a small mug of rum with a big pinch of fire powder in it.

I said, "woo there, I don't need that much."

Owsee, "I'm just trying to counter the effects of the rum a bit, like a good bartender."

I said, "I just think you like the way the powder makes you feel."

Owsee, "you're right I do like it, maybe too much.  But we have it, it don't cost us anything and we still get things done, so I don't see the harm."

I said, "I'm just saying that one of these days you are going to run out of it and your body will not know what to do."

Owsee, "that's why I have a doctor less than half a mile away.  Besides, I think I have six more 30 pound bags left.  It’s going to be a long time before I run out.  I may even get bored with the stuff by that time, and there is always the detox water."

I said, "okay, but if I start staying up all night and sleeping in the day you back me down a bit."

Owsee, "when was the last time we did that?"

I said, "the night before we went fishing."

Owsee, "and how many fish did we catch while we were sleeping?"

I said, "more than we could use, a boat load."

Owsee, "so you're playing with a man that can make money in his sleep.  I wonder how much they would pay for a fish dinner on a space station?"

I said, "I wonder how much they would appreciate a free fish?"

Owsee, "that's a lot of fish to be just given away."

I said, "not for everybody, just the dockworkers.  Most of them are starving because they spend all their credits on overpriced water.  A lot of them rats don't even have a room, they live on the docks.  And who you ask if you want to find someone to buy a load of crystals?"

Owsee, "dockworkers know everybody."

I said, "and who do you pay to keep their mouth shut?"

Owsee, "and what is better than putting a fish in that mouth to keep it from talking.  I see where you are going with this.  I forgot you spent 30 years in and out of docks, I don't need to tell you what it's like."

I said, "and I know what it's like in the mines too.  I also know what it's like to be all alone in the blackness of space."

Owsee, "and now you know what it's like to live on a green planet again."

I said, "well here's to a green planet with blue water and no C.M.A’s."

Owsee, "I'll drink to that."

I said, "I thought you would."

And we drink our rum with a little beer to wash it down.

I said, "when are you planning to build that room of yours in the upper part of the barn?"

Owsee, "before your children are born, why, are you trying to get me out of the house?"

I said, "no, I'm just looking for things to put on my to-do list.  I figured I would be helping you with the new place.  How's your writing coming along?"

Owsee, "I’m doing very well, thank you.  I can read any poem that Goo da wa puts up on the wall."

I said, "before long I will need to sit down and write some real stories, not just poems.  I spent 10 years of my brothers farm, that should give me something to write about that the people around here can relate to."

Owsee, "so you lived on a farm too?"

I said, "yes, it was a dairy farm, we milked about 80 cows."

Owsee, "my translator does not have a word for cows, but we milk goats."

I said to him that my translator made that out to be goats and asked him what they looked like.

Owsee, "well, they're short, have lots of hair, and come in many different colors."

I said, "you could be talking about bartenders."

Owsee, "that's right, but he has no hair.  There is a farm not too far down the road from town.  We will go one day and I will show you what we call a goat, and the bird we get eggs from."

I said, "I like farms, as long as I'm not working there, ha ha."

Owsee, "yes farms are a lot of work, and I just remembered that the fish in the freezer needs to be turned over.  They need more water poured on them to keep it all in good shape."

So we went down to the walk-in freezer.  As soon as we went in we spotted a big bucket of berries.

I said, "when do you think she found time to pick all of them?"

Owsee, "maybe while you were asleep.  Catalacks like to get up at night and do things or just walk around.  That is why they take naps during the day.”

We turned all the fish over and gave them a spray of water.  After leaving the freezer I said to Owsee, "that was cold work."

He said, "yes, it can get to you after a while."

I then saw a table with wood carving tools on it and asked Owsee about them.

He said, "I made pipes when I was a boy, and sold them in town.  Sometimes a man from the big city would come by and take 10 or more to resell, I was good at carving faces on them."

I said, "so these tools have been sitting there for over 35 years, and no one has touched them?"

Owsee, "yes, that's one thing you can say about this town, there is not a thief among them.  You cannot say that about the cities, because of the aliens that come and go."

I said, "it's the same on earth.  People move out of the cities to get away from the crime, and before you know it the small town becomes a city with problems."

Owsee, "35 years and this place has not changed a bit, it's as if time stood still here."

I said, "well time didn’t stand still when it came to aging you."

Owsee, "that's because I did not stay here.  If I had I would still be that young man, at least at heart."

I said, "do you feel young enough to have another drink?"

Owsee, "I would race you to it but I don't want to embarrass myself."

As we started up the stairs kitty was just coming in and said, "so that's where you are.  What have you been up to?"

I said, "we have been turning frozen fish over.  How was your day at the shop?"

Kitty, "not bad, more people than yesterday.  Before long, I will have to get new stock.  That means a trip into the city to find suppliers."

Owsee, "you can use my transport and make a day of it."

Kitty, "did you find the paper you were looking for?"

I said, "yes, and some ink too."

Kitty, "and what will you do with it?"

I said, "we cut it into sheets then put the alphabet on one side and a poem on the other."

Owsee, "and we give a free download of the language, and how to pronounce it, to each of Goo da wa’s customers."

I said, "we are even talking about doing something with the school children."

Kitty, "I want a download too, so I can learn to read before my children do."

I said, "no problem, I'll make a sheet for you and a download tonight."

Kitty, "I have a new recipe I want to try tonight.  I forget what it is called, but it sounded good to me.  Is there only the three of us tonight?"

Owsee, "did you ask the doctor if he was coming?"

Kitty, "he said he was eating with the Mayor.  What about Goo da wa?"

Owsee, "now that his bar is open I don't think we will see much of him unless we go there."

Kitty, "we should take him something from time to time, like I did on the station.  I truly think the only thing the man knows how to make it a meat sandwich."

Owsee, "if you want some good recipes, we can download them from my ship.  She can make just about anything you can think of."

Kitty, "then how come it's not cooking tonight?"

Owsee, "will you hit me if I say because we had to put its memory chips in storage"?

Kitty, "no, but you can put the notion that a machine can out cook me in storage as well."

Owsee, "I didn't mean any harm in what I said, I'm going to shut my mouth now."

Kitty, "oh, now you're not been any fun at all."  And she gave him a kiss on the head.  Then she walked over to me and gave me a passionate kiss on the mouth.  I asked what that was for and she said, "for being the only one I can do that with anymore."

She went back to the kitchen as I said, "thank you."

Owsee just looked at me and smiled under his mug of ale.  I smiled back and said, "sometimes it's good to have a mate."

Owsee, "she will never let you go hungry, that one."

I pushed my empty rum mug toward him and he made me another one of his stay awake orange rum drinks.

I said, "how would you like to hear a stupid joke?"

Owsee, "sure, do I need to be very stupid to understand it?"

I said, "no, but it sounds funnier.  Anyway, it goes like this;

“A cowboy is riding along and sees an Indian with his ear to the ground.  The Indians says, "one wagon, two horses, a man, a woman, a child and a dog; one hour ago."  The cowboy says, "that's pretty good.  You can tell all that just from putting your ear to the ground?"  He says, "no, they ran over me an hour ago, oh my."  Ha ha."

Owsee, "I don't know what a cowboy or an Indian is, but I understand.  They ran over me.  Ha ha, very funny."

Just then there was a knock and a hello at the door.

I walked over and said, "can I help you?"

The man said, "I'm looking for a Owsee wa sphere."

Owsee called out, "I'm Owsee, what do you need?"

The man said, "I need you to show me where you think the geo thermal well should go."

Owsee, "on the other side of the barn, I'll show you."

So the three of us went out to the other side of the barn and the man drove a stake in the ground.  He said the crew would be here at first light, then he left and we went back to the house.

Owsee said he thought they might be able to drive the well in just one day, because of a unseen fissure in the rock that ran under the mountain and across the property.  Owsee said that the man told him he had never drove a well in just one day, but once they start, they will keep working day and night until the job is done.  I nodded my head as if to agree that this is the way things should be done.

Then the scent of supper cooking got my attention and I said, "something is starting to smell good."

This is the bottom of page 93

Kitty said, "I only hope it tastes as good as it smells, but it will take just a bit more simmering."

It then started to rain, and it was coming down good at hard.  There were flashes of lighting and the crash of thunder.  Owsee and I stood on the porch for bit and watched it.

I said to Owsee, "I don't see any lightning rods on the barn or house."

He said, "what is a lightning rod?"

I told him how they work and that we should make some before we start the generators up.  He thought that was a good idea.

Then the power went off but Owsee knew just where to find the old oil lamps and candles.

Supper was a nice beef stew with dumplings.  We were almost done before the power came back on.  Owsee said that once the substation got hit by lightning and it took a week to get it fixed.  I said that would be another place that could use a lightning rod, and that because the wind generators stand so high in the air they must get hit from time to time as well.

Owsee, "that's probably what caused the blackout, it throws the breakers at the substation.  But after tomorrow we won’t have to worry about that anymore."

It stopped raining and the air had the fresh smell to it.

I told Kitty I felt like a walk and was going to see how Goo da wa was doing.  Owsee said he was too tired, but Kitty said she was up to a walk so we both went.

It had rained so hard that a couple of the torches had gone out, so I relit them as we went.  As we walked in the cave bar, we saw that we were not the only ones.  There were 10 men at the bar and another six at tables.  They all had sheets of paper in front of them and seemed to be working on how to read the new poem.

Goo da wa came over to our end of the bar and said, "what can I get you?"

I said I would take a short ale and Kitty asked for for juice.  We sat at the table, at this end of the bar, and Goo da wa brought us our drinks.

I said, "it looks like your customers are into the reading program."

Goo da wa, "oh they love it, not only is it something to do but they get a new poem just for translating it.  And I told them that next week I will be having a contest to see who can read a new poem the fastest; the winner gets a large picture of brew."

I said, "it sounds like being able to read is catching on."

Goo da wa, "it's the poem's.  They would do anything to get a new story, even if it is only a page long."

I said, "I need to sit down and write a nice short story for you to give them.  You then can cut it up into parts, and dish it out a few pages at a time."

Kitty, "I want a sheet of paper like your other customers and a download of how to pronounce the letters too."

I said, "yes, Kitty wants to start reading as well."

Goo da wa, "I have an extra of each."

Kitty, "oh damn, I forgot to bring the stew I put aside for you."

Goo da wa, "don't worry about it, I ate not long ago.  One of my customers brought me something his wife calls smorgesh pie.  It was very good, and filling, he said his wife gave you the recipe.  And let's not forget the leftovers from the party.  I made a walk-in freezer out of part of one of the caves in the back, just so I could store it all.  And now that I have power I turned another cave into a waste disposal room with an incinerator, I just take out the ashes each day."

I said, "it sounds like the place is coming together."

He said, "it is, there are still a few things I want to do to the place, but for now I have everything I need.  Talking about needs, I'll be right back."  And he went to fill a few mugs.

Kitty and I stayed and talked a bit more with Goo da wa, until we were done with our drinks, then we went home.  Owsee had already gone to bed, Kitty and I did the same.

“Night talk”

But I could not get right to sleep.  Things kept running through my mind, like starting a school program, writing a story for Goo da wa, making a lightning rod, mining crystals and going to a station to sell them to a pirate by myself.  That's the kind of thing I could use Owsee with, but he would draw too much attention at the Star gate.  I was lying there thinking about all these things when I felt Kitty quietly get up.  She hardly moved the covers at all, as she slipped out of bed.  I pretended to be asleep, or at least trying to.  Then I told myself that maybe a smoke would help me calm my mind.  So I got up and headed for the porch.  On the way through the living room, I saw Kitty on the sofa, stretching.

She said, "did I wake you?  I was trying not to."

I said, "no, I can't get to sleep, too much thinking about things.  Why are you up?"

Kitty, "oh, I just felt like stretching and turning but didn't want to wake you."

I said, "I thought maybe a smoke would relax me."

Kitty, "try some of that bud liqueur, it put you out the other night."

I said, "that it did," and poured myself a small glass of it, then went out to the porch to sit down and have myself a smoke.

I sat down on the rocking chair and soon Kitty came out to curl up on the wooden love seat next to me, with a pillow she brought from the sofa.

We looked at the stars in the now clear sky and I said, "I can't believe I have traveled so far that I cannot even see the one my home planet is lit by."

Kitty, "I don't even know where to look for mine, but I'm glad I am not there."

I said, "why?  Is it that bad there?"

Kitty, "there are too many of us and not enough food.  The lucky ones get off as soon as they can."

I said, "it's the same on earth.  In some places thousands of people die each day from lack of food or Med.’s.  But this place is like my world when it was young and people lived in harmony with the land.  I don't think I have ever been more contented."

Kitty, "I love it too.  Do you think we will always live here?"

I said, "why not?  It looks like a nice place to live and raise children."

I relit my pipe, and took another sip of my drink.

Kitty, "everyone in town is still talking about what you did with that rock at the cave.  They want you to know they are grateful for what you did."

I said, "are they asking how I did it?"

Kitty, "no, they simply believe you have the power, and that it would be best not to talk about it to outsiders."

I said, "good, the less people that know the better."

After I was done with my drink and smoke I said, "I think I can get to sleep now."

Kitty, "I'm just going to nap here for a while, the air smells so nice I don't want to get up."

I said, "okay then, I'll see you in the morning."  And I went to bed.

Day 8

Morning seemed to come too quickly with sounds of the drill outside.

I sat up in bed to see that the light outside was still dim.  Kitty, still next to me said, "is it morning already?"

I said, "barely ," and put my boots on.

As I got to the porch Owsee came out of his room and said, "when they say first light they were not kidding, what time is it?"

I said, "Time for breakfast.  Who's up for pancakes?"

Owsee, "what is a pan cake, a cake you make in a pan?"

I said, "it's what I’m making for breakfast.  If it looks like something you may want to eat you can have some."

Owsee, "I will look at your pan cake after I make myself a cup of bean juice.  Would you like one?"

I said, "no thank you, I just can't get past the bitter taste."

I was stirring the batter as Kitty came into the kitchen and said, "what's this, you're making breakfast?"

I said, "I'm making breakfast for me, Owsee has not decided if I'm making it for him yet."

And I poured some batter in a hot, greased pan then said, "after I get this one done you can try it and tell me if you want me to make more for you."

She asked what they were called.  I told her there were pancakes and I liked them with butter and jam.  So she got out the butter and jam, and put them on the table along with plates for each of us, and a pitcher of milk.  By the time she came back to the kitchen the first pancake was done, and I put it on a plate for her.  She took it to the dining table as I started to make more.  I watched through the opening, between the kitchen and dining room, as each cut a small piece and tried it.

Then they put butter and jam on it and tried a little more.  In short order the pancake was gone and they were asking for more.  So I greased up another pan, and made stacks of pancakes until we were all very full.

After breakfast Kitty said she wanted to get a start on going to the city to get new stock for the store.  We offer to fly her there, but as she said she wanted to see the area we were living in from the ground.  So Owsee let her use to transport.  I didn't know she could drive one, but then there was a lot I didn't know about Kitty.

Owsee and I then went out to see how the drilling was coming.

There were two trucks there with pipe on them.

Owsee said, "you won't need all that pipe.  You will hit a hot vent in 100 feet."

The owner of the drilling rig said, "I have drilled holes all over this planet for more than 30 years, and never hit a hot vent in 100 feet."

Owsee, "well you will today, I scanned that ground myself."

The man said, "if I hit a hot vent in less than 100 feet I will not charge you for the pipe."

Then Owsee said, "if you need to go deeper than 100 feet I will pay you double for the extra part."  And they shook hands on it.

I said, "I'm going to the other side of the mountain, I'll see you later."

Owsee, "have fun writing a story for me to sell."

“Morning treasure in the sand”

So I headed for my ship by the lake.  I picked some fruit from the tree, to eat later, and flew over the mountains to where Owsee’s big ship was.

The side of the nearby mountain was shining like a thousand mirrors in the sun.  I hoped no one would fly over, as they would see it for sure.  Even if the crystals did not have much value on this world, I still did not want anyone to know I was mining them.

After fiddling a bit with the release locks on the big bay door, I got it to open and the loader out.  I pulled the cargo containers out and began to fill them.  Scoop after scoop, one after another I got them filled at the rate of one per hour.  I left three containers on the port side empty with the idea of putting water and fish in them.  By the looks of the sun, it was past noon as I pushed the last container back into place.  It was getting hot in this desert and I was ready to head home.  So I got in my ship and headed back to the lake.

On my way to the house I was thinking about lightning rods, and how I didn’t see anything on the big ship that would do the job.  So I figured I would just have to find something at the hardware store to make them out of.  I thought about the power cells to my air thrusters, and how they were at half power, they would soon need a good charging.  I was also thinking about what I would eat, when I noticed I did not hear the drill.  When I got to the house I went around the side of the barn to see what was up.

The trucks with the pipe and the drilling rig were gone.  They had a rig that could cut a trench in the ground and lay the line as it went.  It was working on running a line to the town’s substation.

As soon as Owsee saw me he yelled out, "84 feet," with a big grin on his face.

They had hooked the generators to their breakers and were ready to test them as I walked up.  They started one than the other and the gauges showed the power output that  they could provide.  The town would have a lot more power than it ever did before.  The man said he would have the building for the generators done today.

Then Owsee walked back to the house with me and asked how the mining went.  I told him and he said I sure knew how to work a loader.  I told him I would like to fill the other three containers with water and fish for the dockworkers, if it was all right with him.

He said, "of course it is, and we will catch enough fish to feed them all.  But I'm not sure how we will get the water in the containers.  You can fly the containers over with your ship, but the trick will be to get the water into the containers.  We could buy a pump but it would need a power outlet, and I just can't see running a line all the way to the lake for a one-time job."

I said, "my ship moves containers by clamping on to them.  But what if after I bring them to the lake we put some cables on them, and I fly out and dip them in the water?"

Owsee, "too risky, I would never let you do something like that."

I said, "the bottom floor of my ship is set up to hold water.  I could fly out and land on the water with the door open, then close the door and fly back."

Owsee, "you know I think you could do it.  But if you don't pull up before your half full your side thrusters will get wet, and you will go right to the bottom.  There must be a better way."

I said, "remember how you got the dust out of the ship?"

Owsee, "yes, the vacuum tubes."

I said, "can't we run a line from the water storage tanks to fill the containers before I bring them over to put fish in them?"

Owsee, "the pumps run off of the ship's main power supply.  We would need to put the control chips back in to do that.  I don't think it would be wise to do that before you are ready to take off.  After all we still need to catch the fish and I'm worried about the chips cracking from E.M.P.’s."

I said, "well, I don't know, how about I just tried to move the water like I moved the rock?"

Owsee, "do you think you could do that?"

I said, "I don't know.  But I bet I could move a container in and out of the water.  Outside of the rock and the mountain, I have not tried to use the telekinetic enhancer.  I have been worried about having an accident if I just get mad or something.  It is already coming on without me turning it on.  What if I blast someone or something without a second thought?  I might get pissed off and blow a hole in the side of a space station or something.  I just want to be careful about using it until I'm sure I have it fully under control."

Owsee, "yes, of course you do.  Learning control is important, but you can't do that without a bit of practice."

I said, "perhaps I should spend some time trying to do small things."

By this time I had a mug of ale and was sipping it in between thoughts.

I said, "have you thought about what we may use to make lightning rods?"

Owsee, "I'm sure we can find what we need at the hardware store.  Do you want some rum?"

I said, "sure, why not.  How long do you think it will take them to run the line to the town’s power relay?"

Owsee, "I don't know.  It only a half-mile, but the machine is slow."

I said, "it may be slow but they keep at it.  I thought they would have been done by the time I got back."

Owsee, "it broke down and they had to get parts, but they got it running again just before you got here.  We could drink on the porch and watch them work."

I said, "no, I was never good at just watching others' work.  I don't like people watching me when I work, and I don't like doing nothing while others work."

Owsee, "so let's take our drinks out to the back porch, I want you to try something."

“Practice makes juice”

We went out and I sat down as Owsee took a basket off the porch and put it in the middle of the yard.  Then he came back, sat down, and said, "let's see if you can pick just one piece of fruit off the tree and put it in the basket from here."

I said, "you're not afraid I might blast the whole orchard?"

Owsee, "you had enough control over the rock at the cave."

So I looked at the tree, picked out just one piece of fruit and reached out for it.  The gem in my ring came on and the fruit popped off the tree, and flew across the yard, into the basket.

Owsee, "good, now try it again."

So I concentrated on the same tree.  First one piece of fruit went up in the air and hovered there for a moment.  Then the tree began to shake and all the fruit in it flew up in the air, with a large amount of leaves flying off the tree as well.  The fruit flew toward the backyard, landed all over as they bounced to a stop.  The leaves gently fell down by the tree as the one fruit still hung there turning in place.  Then that one piece came flying toward us, split in two and the halves landed in our laps.

I said, "control does not seem to be a problem, but boredom may be."

Owsee, "I was planning to start juicing some anyway.  At least it was not the whole orchard.  Tell me, are you at all tired?"

I said, "no, it gets easier each time.  I'm even starting to feel good, it can be a bit of a rush."

Owsee, "I hope that don't become a problem for you."

I said, "it's something I have been thinking about.  I may get to the point that I will have to leave the enhancer off when I don't want to use it.  Of course, that means I would not have the only weapon I have ready to use if need be.  I guess that I would have to start carrying a blaster.  I hope it don't come to that."

I took a sip of my drink and a bite of the fruit, that I split in half, and said, "you want me to wave my hand and put all that fruit in baskets for you?"

Owsee, "no, I think you're right not to get too used to it.  Besides, it's good for me to have something to do."

I said, "but you're the only one I can show off in front of.  You said I should get some practice, and I have something good in mind, watch this."

And with the slightest movement of my hand, the baskets flew out to the middle of the yard.  All five of them were hovering two feet off the ground and spinning in a circle.  The fruit all gathered at the center of the baskets and began to flow up like a fountain, into the baskets, until they were full and sat back down on the lawn.

Then I said, "that's enough showing off for one day."

Owsee, "that's very good.  You seem to have plenty of control.  How do you feel after something like that?"

I said, "I admit the complex stuff does drain me a bit, I'll be fine in a moment.  But I have been thinking about something.  What if we were to use the spice dew and the power of the enhancer together."

Owsee, "if you could do that, you could move things as far away as your mind could go.  I guess the next C.M.A. you run into better have some good manners."

I said, "I don't think I could reach him through a transmission, but if he was in orbit and I had spice dew then something may happen.  But let's not talk about what may happen.  Tell me if you know anyone, in the system I will go to, for selling the crystals."

Owsee, "it's the opposite way from the way we came, but I can make a few calls on my father's old transmitter.  We can at least find out who the dock masters are at the stations you will stop at."

I said, "it would be good to know a crystal pirate before I get there.  I want to dump my load, get paid and out of the system before the CM knows what I have done."

Owsee, "yes, it's a big deal.  And if the CM has a ship out there they may try to board you."

I said, "if the CM gets close enough for me to see them, they may find they have so many problems with their computers, I will be the last thing they are concerned about.  But still, all my powers don't help if I can't make the deal before it's time to go.  In and out, no waste of time, that's the way not to get caught."

Owsee, "maybe we could find a facilitator.  Like what I did, but someone that knows all three stations you are going to."

I said, "it would have to be someone with a reason to hate the CM.  They put up big rewards to their spies.  I want the deal to be over, with the credits in my hand, before the CM knows what I'm up to.  Then I can go toe to toe with them if need be.  I just don't want to get into trouble without something to show for it."

We then went inside for more ale.

I said, "what about the dockworkers at the central city spaceport?  With all the ships that come here, some of them must be smugglers."

Owsee, "with the ban from the CM, anyone that brings goods hear is a smuggler.  But most of them are from nearby systems and can bypass the gates."

I said, "I thought the boycott was only on water and crystals."

Owsee, "the CM wants to control everything that comes or goes from this planet.  It's their way of putting pressure on us to sell to them."

I said, "so all the ships that land here are defying the CM.  How can they do it?"

Owsee, "like I said, most do not need to use a gate as they come from nearby systems.  Others hide things in their ships where no one can find them, they are the true smugglers.  Several of them have tried to take crystals out, but it's a long way without a jump gate, and they search rather well.  It’s just not worth losing your ship or freedom over, to most.  But for someone with a free pass that would not be searched, now you're talking a chance for profit."

I sipped my drink and said, "so, do you know who owns the central city port?"

Owsee, "not yet, but by tomorrow I will have some information for you."

I said, "the third station, it's what, about a half a day's trip from here?"

Owsee, "yes, if you don't stop, just jump from one gate to the other until you are there.  Are you planning to go all the way out and work your way back?"

I said, "yes.  If I sell the water or give away the fish on my way out the CM may be looking for me as I return.  I can also sleep in between gates on the way out to the third station, then stayed awake on the return trip.  It's like starting a fire in the woods, you need to keep running until you get to the river."

Owsee, "how soon do you think you will be ready to make the run?"

I said, "well from I need to bring the cargo containers over and put some water in them, I can do that today.  I should catch the fish the same day I am ready to leave, then move the containers back and put the control chips in the computers.  It could take me most of tomorrow to do all that."

Owsee, "so we are looking at you get in to the third station the morning after next."

I said, "that’s about the way I see it.  Of course, I could use some help putting the chips back in the computers.  You need to go over the controls with me for taking on water, and it would be helpful to plant a homing beacon so I can land in the same spot."

Owsee, "yes, yes, there are always those last-minute things that need to be taken care of, and I will help you with all of them, but for right now we drink rum."

I said, "what happened to the man that only drank spice dew?"

Owsee, "he got his arms back, sold a mountain of ice and put a lot of space between himself and all his old problems."

I said, "yes he did.  Here's to leaving a place you were never going back to, and hitting the waste purge button on the way out."

Owsee, "they said they didn’t care about the station anymore, which is good for the way we left it for them."

I said, "yeah, on fire and covered with shit, I would say that was a rather rude goodbye.  Luckily there is nothing to hurt from taking off in the desert."

Owsee, "that's one of the reasons I bought part of the desert."

I said, "hay, I just thought about the lightning rods we were going to make.  Do you need my help on them?"

Owsee, "you know more about them than I do."

I said, "do you think it will rain tonight?"

Owsee, "no, not tonight.  When it rains it rains for a day or two then it is clear for four or five days, that's the way this planet moves, it's always the same."

I said, "well then we don't need to worry about them for a few days.  The windmills can be cut from the main line before the next storm, so we don't need to put rods up on them.  However, I am concerned about where to put one to protect the generators.  It’s best if it is the highest placed near to were your trying to protect.  That would be the top of the barn, but with you living up there you could get hit yourself."

Owsee, "well, that don't bother me, a lot of people get hit, it don't seem to hurt much.  The lightning we have here does not have very much power to it, more like a static discharge."

I said, "well then you're lightning is not like the kind I had on Earth, or anywhere else I have been.  Ours would split trees, start fires and kill people.  If all we need to worry about is the substation, then I say we attach a rod onto the fence and we are done with it.  But you said that lightning fried the station once, how could that have happened?"

Owsee, "that was in the days when we had fuse’s instead of the breakers we now have."

I said, "then the doctor can turn them back on if need be, and the shed they put up will protect the generators.  But tell me why this town seems so old fashion, I would think it would at least have a power line to it from the city."

Owsee, "well, it's like this, we came from another planet about a thousand years ago.  A friendly alien gave a thousand of us a ride across the galaxy, and we settled here.  This town is no more than a hundred years old, and we are still making do with what we have.  Due to the embargo upgrades are slow in coming, because most of our technology comes from other worlds.  Therefore, you can see why we are such a mix.  There are small towns all over the planet, and some don't even have roods to them yet.  Some like it that way, they don't want trade with the cities or anyone else."

I said, "I understand.  Back on Earth there are people that move out of the cities to live, but they go back just to work.  Before long so many people are living just outside of the city that it becomes part of the city.  This makes it harder and harder to find land to farm, and even harder to find people to farm it.  Corporations take over the job that hundreds of farmers did to feed the cities."

Owsee, "that's why I’m glad we are so far from the city, it’s close enough that it don't take all day to get there.  Before now we never even had a doctor in our town."

I said, "now you have a clinic and extra power."

Owsee, "all the power we need.  Talking about power, do you need to recharge the power cells on your ship?"

I said, "yes I do, but there is enough power in them to make a few more trips to the other side of the mountains and back.  I may as well get the most out of them that I can.  Those kind of cells can only be recharged a certain number of times, then they have to be replaced.  Would you like to go with me to get the containers?"

Owsee, "no I want to look over the press, maybe juice a few baskets of fruit."

I said, "okay then, I'll see you when I get back."

“No light flight”

I walked up the path and across the field to my ship.  The flight across the mountains no longer seem to take as long.  Arriving at the mother ship I pulled out the remaining three containers and put them side by side.  Picking all three up at the same time was not easy, as the clamps had very little room to work with.  After the frustrating part was over, I had no problem with the weight.  But I could see my power units going down at a fast rate.  With all three containers, I was using more power than I expected.  I kept looking at the readout and how far I still had to go.  This trip seemed to take a lot longer than the others, as my power readings kept going down at an alarming rate.  Finally I could see the lake, as I came over the crest of the mountain and it was going to be close.  My power readout was flashing as I made my descent for a landing.  I pulled up at the last moment just as the containers hit the ground, and hit the release for the clamps while making a banking maneuver.  Then I set the ship down next to the containers.  My power readout stopped flashing, but the ship was not going anywhere without a good charge.  I then opened the top on the three containers that I had set down near the water.

This is to bottom of page 102

Now for a little fun, I said to myself.  I reached out to the water with my hand and try to lift some up, but it just slipped through my telekinetic fingers.  So I reached out with both hands cupped and lifted the water up and over the containers then let it go.  It came down with a great splash, sending half of it over the side and on to me, soaking me from head to toe.  I did it again with a bit more care and filled the containers near to the top.

I then tried some telekinetic fishing.  I stretched out my hand over the water and thought of a net that was cast in the middle of the lake, then I pulled it in.  As it got close to shore I could see the water was full of fish.  I could of pull them onshore or sent them to the containers, however, I was not ready for them yet.  So I let them go and they swam away.

I then disconnected the power cells in my ship and move them outside.  They were 5 feet tall, 3 high and very heavy, near 300 pounds each; so it took some telekinetic help to move them.  I then left the power cells next to the ship and walked back to the house.  It was only then that I noticed I was dry.  My hair was still wet but the rest me was dry.  Self drying clothes, I don't remember Kitty telling me about that trick.

When I got home I went to the barn to see how Owsee was doing.

I had to raise my voice to be heard over the sound of the press, as I asked Owsee how it was working.

He turned it off and said, "it's working fine, just like it was before I left.  It had some dust I needed to wash off, but the years have been kind to it.  How did you get done so fast?"

I said, "I moved all three at one time, which is good as the power cells all need to be charged now."

Owsee, "Kitty is not back with the transport yet, but if you can move the cells down here I can have them ready by morning, maybe even tonight."

I said, "it don't matter if it's tonight or tomorrow, as long as they have a good charge in them.  It's going to take some power to get the containers full of water back to the other ship."

Owsee, "have you figured out how to get the water into the containers?"

I said, "yes, and it's already done."

Owsee, "how did you do it?"

I said, "I just told the water to come and it did."

Owsee, "too bad you can't do the same with the fish."

I said, "I can, but the less time they spend in those containers the better they will be."

Owsee, "so you can call the fish ah.  Don't tell Kitty, or we will no longer be able to get away with spending the day on the lake again."

I said, "I would lay odds that she already knows the way we fish, but I'll keep our little secret for now.  And as for those power cells, let's try to see if I can use the spice dew and my telekinetic enhancer to bring them here."

So I sat down on a short stool and pulled out a glass flask of spice dew.  My first drink got my mind as far as outside in the yard.  With the next I got to the ship but was not able to move the cells before I was pulled back.  I then took a large gulp of the spice dew and flew the cells across the field, and to the barn before I was pulled back into my body.  I then opened my eyes and there they were.

Owsee, "that's amazing.  How do you feel?"

I said, "a little tired, but not bad."

Owsee, "and now you can mix the two powers to move things you cannot see with just your eyes."

I said, "yes, with the help of the spice dew no ship will be able to stop me, at least not for long."

Owsee, "I'll get the cables and hook the cells to the generator."

I said, "can you use the more fruit to juice?"

Owsee, "yes, but it must be the same kind, the sweet tarts."

I said, "so that's what you call them.  They taste like what I would call a pineapple, but they look like a pear."

Owsee, "sweet tarts is the best the translator can do."

I said, "well whatever you call it, here comes another batch."

I walked out the back of the barn to the orchard behind the house.  There was a tree right next to the other one I had picked.  I tried to get the feel of the tree as I gently lifted the fruit up and off without disturbing a leaf.  There was a lot more than five baskets to this one.  So I used my mind to fill them 3 feet higher than the baskets and sent them to the barn, where after I set them down the extra fell on the clean barn floor.

Owsee was looking at a meter on one side of the cells and said, "when this gets to the green they will be done.  I just hope no one touches them, or they will get a bad shock."

I said, "I'll make a sign."  It read, "Danger!  Stay away.”

I put it by the power cells with a rock to keep it in place.

Then I said, "now anyone that can read will know not to get close to them."

Owsee, "that's a great idea, I never thought of such a thing."

I said, "we use signs like this all over my home planet, to tell people what we want, or do not want, them to do.  Sometimes there are so many signs, trying to tell us what to do, that we long for the peace of the woods.  Now that I think about it, I want to apologize for the signs that will surely be popping up all over the place.  Soon the cities will be full of signs trying to tell you what to do."

Owsee, "well it’s a good thing we do not live in the city."

He opened the press and dumped another basket of fruit into it.  I started to help by picking up the fruit that was on the floor and putting it in the empty baskets.

Owsee, "by the way, the Mayor came by while we were still drilling.  We talked about teaching children to read and write and he thought it was a good idea.  We are going to put together a program to start as soon as we can get all the wrist translators we need, for which the Mayor thanks you for your generosity."

I said, "I'm happy I can do it for the children."

We got all the fruit in the press and close the lid.  Owsee then started the press and the juice started to fill the barrels.  After a short time, he turned the motor off, saying that the weight of the top would do the rest.  So we went into the house with a small keg and put it in the icebox, that's what he still called a refrigerator.

I said, "you know, this goes good with the rum."

So we made a tall glass for both of us.  I drank it right down, forgetting how much rum we putting it, and asked for another.

I relit my pipe and asked Owsee how long it would take to put the computer chips back in place on the big ship.

He said, "not long, there are some things on board that don't need to be restored.  The moving floor and the detachable bridge will not need their relays.  But I will put the chips back in the replicators, it's good to be able to get something to eat on a long trip."

I said I would like that, and that I was going to try to stay up most of the night so I could sleep on the way to the third station.  That way I would be able to be awake for the trip home.  I wanted to be fully alert for that part of the journey.

Owsee said that staying up all night is something we do well.  Then he pulled out the fire powder and made two lines on the table.  Pulling out a short tube he did a line then offered it to me.  But I just held my hand up, as to say stop, then put a finger to my nose and made the powder rise like a tiny tornado, and up my nose it went.

I then said, "now how cool is that?"

Owsee, "yes, you are getting more control over small things.  I think that is where the true power lies.  Even the biggest ship can be stopped by pulling a few of its main memory chips.  And with the help of some spice dew you can do it."

I said, "let's hope it does not come to that, I still want to make a clean getaway."

Owsee, "yes, but remember what I said, the memory chips.  Without them they can do nothing to you."

I said, "what I need now is information.  How about you pull out that flat screen, and see if we can find out who is working the docks that may know something we need, while we enjoy our drink."

So he pulled out the monitor and set it on the small bar top so we both could see, then started a search of import traders.  One was into clothes, we made a note of that for Kitty.  Another was a supplier of food and tools.  Then we spotted one that was a seller of translators and other small chip devices.  We tried to get him on the line but were put on hold.  Owsee asked if I wanted to wait to hear back from this one.  I said he seemed to be the best bet so far, for information.  Before we could say another word he came on the line saying, "you have reached trader Sam.  Just tell me what you want and I will find it for you."

I said, "it looks like you deal in a lot of things that use small chips."

He said, "well yes I do, what do you need?"

I said, "I need to know someone that deals in raw crystals to make the chips."

He said, "that's CM, I will not deal with them."

I said, "neither will I, I'm interested in a one-time sale of a few cargo containers of crystals.  I can transport as far as the E3 station."

Sam said, "I sell I legitimate merchandise.  I don't get involved with smugglers."

I said, "that's not what I hear.  And for let's say, a thousand credits, maybe you could hear something as well."

Sam, "500 now and the rest when I call you back."

I said, "I need the info tonight."

This is the bottom of page 105

Sam, "don't worry, I'll get right back to you.  Now if you'll just scan your credit chip for me."

I pulled my bank credit chip out from the back of my translator, where I kept it, and scanned yes to the 500 charge.

He said, "trader Sam will be back with you shortly."

Owsee, "a thousand credits is a lot of money."

I said, "he is taking at risk."

Owsee, "what is the risk?  The CM has no ears here."

I said, "it's the people he will put us in contact with, they don't like newcomers.  And if you send them a CM spy they will rip your face off, and stick it up your ass, so you can see them kick you out an airlock."

Owsee, "you're right, if they don't like you or the deal goes bad, they will take it out on him for sending you."

I said, "yes, and a thousand credits may not be a lot for that kind of risk, but it is enough for him to buy the information from someone else."

I drained my drink and Owsee asked if I would like another one.

I said, "no, I needed something small and sweet to mellow out with."

He said, "how about a shot of the bud liqueur?"

I said, "that's just the ticket," and he poured me a short one.

I took a small sip and worked it around my gums.  Then I relit my pipe and let the aroma tease my nose a bit.

Then turning to Owsee I said, "I've been thinking about Goo da wa, and a story we could cut up and hand out a page or two every night for up to three weeks.  It's called, "one more bike," and it is about a neighbor with a lot of children but not much money.  And how one boy, works to get a new bike."

Owsee, "that sounds like a good story, how soon can I read it?"

I said, "I'll write it down on my trip back, it will give me something to do.  Then there will be at least 20 pages to copy, for anyone that wants one."

Owsee, "20 pages for each person sounds like a lot of writing to me."

I said, "you're right, I wish we had a copying machine."

But before Owsee could ask what a copying machine was, trader Sam came back on the line.

He said, "I have a man at station two that needs a ride to station three, where he will introduce you to the man you need to do business with, if you want to sell crystals.  The man you are picking up is called Ranger, and he wants to know when you will be there and how to tell it is you."

I said, "I was not planning to take on a passenger."

Sam, "it's the only way the deal will work."

I said, "tell him to look for a very large ship in the middle of the night, your time, and a man on the dock next to it in Elvin ware.  How will I know him?"

Sam, "my 500 credits please."

I slipped my chip in the slot and okayed the credits.

Sam, "he will be all in black and walking with a metal pole.  Good luck and goodbye."

Owsee, "looks like your trip will be interrupted by a pickup."

I said, "I can still get some sleep before I get to him.  It's probably their way to check me out before I meet the head man."

I ate some nuts that were on the table as Owsee pointed out that the sun was setting and Kitty was not back yet.

I said, "she said she was planning to make a day of it"

Owsee, "that she did.  I better take a look at those power cells, it's not good to overcharge them."

I said, "I'll go with you, I need to stretch my legs a bit."

Owsee, "I bet you do.  After drinking that bud liqueur if you don't walk around your legs forget how to."

I said, "that's why I only drank a little bit from a shot glass.  Have you thought what you want for supper yet?"

Owsee, "no, I haven't, how about you?"

I said, "no, but if Kitty is very late I will start cooking myself."

Owsee, "you could make some more of those pan cakes.  I could eat them any time of the day."

I said, "I have something else you may like called crepes, they are like a thin pancake rolled up with a filling of cheese or jam."

Owsee, "oh let's have them."

I said, "let's wait a little while for Kitty first.  If she don't show up soon I'll start cooking."

The power cells were already at the green mark, yet there was still some room before they had to come off.

Owsee turned the press on again and the juice came gushing out into the barrel.  After a few moments, he moved another barrel into place.

Owsee, "have you been up stairs yet?  Come and see."

So we went up the heavy wooden stairs to a finished upper room.  It had a hard wood floor and the walls were done in a light colored wood.  The only thing up there, other than the dust, was a rocking chair by the hay loft door.

I said, "this is very nice.  I see why you would like to live up here.  All you need is a bit of furniture."

Owsee, "yes, it's one of the last things my father and I worked on before he died.  He would sit in that chair, looking at the stars, wondering what stories his sons would have brought back."

I said, "for a race about storytellers I have not heard where your people are from."

Owsee, "that's because it was a forbidden story that died with the first ones that came here.  Our old world was so full of people that the ones that left did not want them to know of this place.  It's also why we change the name of the planet every 50 years.  I think we may have had a written language once, but it was forbidden by the first ones so the secret could be kept.  I think we also made up a new spoken language that was so different from the first one that no one would know, or guest, where we were from.  At lease those are all the stories that I have heard.  The fact is that you and I are so alike that we may even be from Earth, who knows?"

I said, "I always believed that in the past we may have come from the stars, I know a lot of us went to them."

We went back downstairs and Owsee shut down the power to the cells and unhooked them.

I said, "I'll take them back tomorrow.  By the way, will you take the furniture from your bedroom for your new place?"

Owsee, "that will leave you with a bare room in the house."

I said, "that's okay with me.  I can then turned it into a writing den, where I can work on new stories."

Owsee, "that sounds like a good idea, then I would have some of my old things to make the new place more comfortable."

We then went back to the house.

The sun was now behind the mountains and we were both hungry.

I said, "you must be a good cook Owsee, after all you grew up here and know what things taste like."

Owsee, "that's true, but I've never felt good about my cooking; it's just something I don't like to do."

I said, "and I like to cook, but don't know what anything tastes like here.  Kitty has the right idea, use someone else's recipes until you can come up with ones of your own.  That smorgesh pie was good, but I would put a lot more cheese on it.  But then there is so much to eat on this planet it's hard to know just what I want."

Owsee, "there’s a lot of fruit to eat."

I said, "yes, but I just don't feel like fruit right now.  That's the trouble with having so much, you just can't make up your mind."

Owsee, "we could go to Goo da wa’s, I bet he has found what he needs to make those tasty meat sandwiches."

I said, "I was sort of planning to hit the bar later.  I know, I know, nothing seems to please me right now."

Owsee, "I feel the same way, so don't worry about it.  When we get hungry enough we will eat something."

I said, "do you have any more of those shrooms?"

Owsee, "of course I do, how many do you want?"

I said, "I'll take three please."

Owsee, "three!  You'll be lucky if you can still fish tomorrow."

I said, "they don't seem to hit me as hard as you would think.  I could handle eating three now and more later."

Owsee, "when Kitty comes home she will ask if we have eaten anything.  And we will have the answer, yes, mushrooms."

I said, "and I will have another one of your rum and fruit juice cocktails, please."

Owsee, "coming right up."

And after given me three dehydrated mushrooms, he put three shots of rum in my mug, a good pinch or two of fire powder, and topped it off with the pineapple flavored juice.  I ate my shrooms and washed them down with the drink.  Owsee had just one mushroom and said they tasted much better fresh.

I then said to Owsee that it was too bad his transport did not have a GPS tracking system in it.

Owsee, "that we do not have, but there is a communications device.  I can call her, if she is in the transport she may pick up."

A few moments later she was on the line and said she was not far from town.  She said she had to drop a few things off at the shop and would be home shortly.

I told Owsee I was going to sit on the porch with my drink until she got back.  He said he would join me.

After sitting down and lighting my I and said, "you know it's hard to believe I will be sitting on this porch with my children before long.  Probably pointing out the stars and telling them which planets I have been to."

Owsee, "yes, it's good to have someone to pass your knowledge on to."

I said, "I don't know how it is here, but back on Earth children don't always listen to their parents."

Owsee, "I understand what you mean.  But we teach our children to listen to each other very carefully, because that is the only way we learn."

I said, "and Kitty tells me that catalack children are very well behaved and learn fast."

Owsee, "yes, I have heard this.  It’s because they never really have a childhood, they grow up to fast."

I said, "I wish I could have skipped my childhood."

Owsee, "you did not like your childhood?"

I said, "no, I did not.  My mother and I moved around a lot.  I never had much of a chance to make friends.  My father left us when I was just four, and I soon learned I could only depend on myself.  I could not be happy on Earth, so I left."

Owsee, "have you found much happiness up here among the stars?"

I said, "I like it here.  If we had landed at the central city report, this world would have seemed like many others.  But this town has a feel to it that’s like sitting on a porch, it feels open, welcome and safe."

Owsee, "yes, it was a hard place to leave and I am glad I'm back."

I said, "and I'm glad I was able to come with you."

It was not long before Owsee said, "look, here comes the kitty.  I see she found the switch for the night lights on the transport."

She pulled up in front of the barn and turn the lights off.

Owsee yelled out, "do you need help with anything?"

She replied, "no," as she walked up with a bag of food, and asked if we hadn't eaten yet.  To which we replied, "only shrooms," and we both started laughing.

Kitty, "only shrooms ah, well you're not on the floor yet so I bet you're still hungry."

"Yes, please," said Owsee.

Then Kitty looked at me and said, "well, are you hungry?"

And I said, "do you have anything that goes well with mushrooms?"

Owsee started laughing while I just sprouted a big grin on my face.

Kitty turned to Owsee and said, "how many did he eat?"

Owsee, "he was very hungry and ate three."

Kitty, "three, you let him eat three?  Well you know what, I'm going to make supper and if either of you are passed out on the floor when it is ready I will take his share to Goo da wa."

I said, "what are we having?"

Kitty, "I don't know yet, but it is going to take a real long time."  And she went inside.

I said to Owsee, "I think she is mad at us."

Owsee, "I think she is more mad at me."

I said, "what did you do?"

Owsee, "I let you get messed up."

I said, "that's not your fault, you're not my keeper."

Owsee, "she feels I am responsible for you when she's not around."

I said, "so she is just showing that she cares."

Owsee, "that's one way of putting it."

I said, "well I can't fault her for that.  But she must understand that we need to have some fun from time to time."

Owsee, "she knows that, so she will be sweet on you again in a matter of moments.  But as for me, it will take a bit longer."

Kitty then came back out and knelt down next to me.  She gave me a kiss, then looked into my eyes and said, "are you all right in there? You're not tripping to hard are you?"

I said, "I'm fine.  The shrooms don't hit me as hard as they do Owsee."

Kitty, "what’s this you’re drinking, fruit juice?"

I said, "was rum in it."

Kitty, "well at least you're watering it down now."

I said, "how was the city?  Did you find out what you needed to know?"

Kitty, "I found out a lot.  But I'll save that for supper."  And she went back inside.

Owsee, "you see what I mean.  You are forgiven; me, she is not talking to."

I said, "that will change by the time we sit down for supper.  But there is something I am worried about.  The mid-air water take-on, from the lake in the mountains.  Your ship is big, but to take on another 3000 units of water while hovering.  Will it have the power to hold steady and then make it into space?  Remember our take off from the moon.

Owsee, "to start with we no longer have 30 years of waste to dump.  And you’re a ship lighter, as you're not taking that three-story high monster with you, that's a lot of weight.  Even with the water you will be a lot lighter than before."

I said, "I worry about the fuel burn and that it may taint the water in the lake."

Owsee, "the big ship uses air thrusters just like your ship.  And you only need to get the nose over the lake to suck up the water."

I said, "you make it all sounds so easy."

Owsee, "it is, at least with that ship.  Remember I spent 20 years working on its systems so that one man could fly it."

I said, "and you have done a very good job at it."

Owsee, "think you.  It nice to have one’s work appreciated."

I tried to relight my pipe, but it was burnt out.  I as Owsee if he had anything to smoke on him.  He pulled out a 4 inch bud and said, "this will keep you from a walk to the barn for now."

I said thank you, and that it was a nice bud.  He said yes it was and to note the red hairs in it.  He said that some have purple hairs in them, and that this was one of the seed plants that his people brought with them when they came here.  And that now it grows just about everywhere.

I said, "so you're telling me you come from a race of the intergalactic stoners."

Owsee, "I don't understand what that is.  But we do love a good smoke as well as a good story."

I said, "and a good drink."

He replied, "yes, for some of us.  For many of my people it is not used in their homes.  It is said to dull the mind."

I said, "that it does.  Why I bet I have forgotten more than most will ever learn."

Owsee, "and I hope I have learned more than I will be able to forget."

I said, "well put, yes well put."

Owsee, "like this Ranger you were to meet.  I have heard of him, or others like him.  They dress in black and walk with a metal staff.  It is said they help people from time to time, and are members of a secret society.  They have no love for the CM, that I can tell you."

I said, "well it looks as if this may be a treat for me after all.  We will have as few hours to talk before we get to the third station.  Maybe he can help us help the dock rats, and screw the CM."

Owsee, "screw the CM."  Owsee said as we lifted our mugs to make it a toast.  And draining our mugs, we went inside to our house bar.  We could smell what was cooking in the oven and it made me think of lasagna.  I can only hope it tasted like it.

From the kitchen kitty said, "I see the drill rig is gone, is it done already?"

Owsee, "yes, we now have a new power supply.  There will be no more brown outs on windless cloudy days.  And the backup generator is working just fine as well.  I gave the power cells from Nibor’s ship a recharge today."

Kitty, "so that's what I saw in the barn when I pulled up."

I said, "and Owsee made some fresh juice today, lots of it."

Kitty, "I saw a keg in the cooler.  How much did you make?"

Owsee, "about five barrels full, Nibor did the picking."

I said, "it was just two trees, and it went rather fast."

Owsee, "yes, very fest.  I can truly say I have never seen anyone pick fruit that fast before in my life."

Kitty, "I thought you were going off to work on a new story today."

I said, "I did, but that only took half of the day.  Then I brought three cargo containers back and filled them most of the way with water.  Tomorrow Owsee and I are going to put fish in them.  And I am going to take them to the hungry dock workers on the next three stations."

Kitty, "how long will you be gone?"

I said, "about two days."

Kitty, "are you going with him Owsee?"

Owsee, "no, he can do this on his own.  If I go there may be trouble.  You know how I get when it comes to the CM."

Kitty, "would you like me to come with you?"

I said, "no, I don't think it would be good for you to do any extra space traveling in your condition."

Kitty, "okay but don't do any more shrooms in hyper space, or your mind may not be the only thing that gets lost."

I said, "don't worry, I will be sleeping from gate to gate on this trip.  How is your reading coming along?"

Kitty, "I have all the sounds of the alphabet down.  Now I just need to work on reading things."

I said, "Goo da wa has some pages of poems I wrote, we can start you own them.  I will try to finish the story I’m writing by the time I get back.

Goo da wa, will be handing it out a page a day over about three weeks, to get new customers."

Kitty, "well I hope I can get a first look at it."

Owsee, "yes, I don't want to take three weeks either."

I said, "you both can get a look at it when I get back.  Oh by the way, we were looking around on the net and found a clothing dealer in port.  What was his name?"

Owsee, "B.B. Britches."

Kitty, "I know about B.B..  He has some of the more exotic things.  But what I need here is work clothes and children wear.  That is what wears out, and people need around here.  I'm no longer selling to tourist."

I said, "so you found the makers for the clothes you will sell?"

Kitty, "for some of it.  I brought some of it home for the shop and there will be some factory reps coming to see me this week, I'm on the list now."

Owsee, "on the list, that's just another way of saying they will be coming around to try and sell you something.  If they come to the house I never heard of you."

Kitty, "if you turn my dealers away you will never get another meal from me."

Owsee, "you see, give a woman a kitchen and it's like giving them a gun."

I said, "well then, here’s a saying for you Owsee.  Don't take a wife until you learn to cook."

Kitty, "I've got one.  Don't have children until you stop being one yourself."

Owsee, "here's one, if a man wants to fill his mouth with food he must learn to keep it shut."

Kitty, "I like that one."

I said, "you know we should write this down on small pieces of paper and put them in a jar.  We can call it the wisdom jar, and put it on the bar at Goo da wa’s."

Owsee, "and other people can write things down and put them in the jar."

Kitty, "and maybe a vote on the best saying, once a week."

I said, "maybe a board behind the bar with the name of the poet of the week."

Owsee, "maybe we should ask Goo da wa what he thinks of the idea before we get too excited about it, after all it's his bar."

I said, "well of course it's up to him.  But it sounds like a good idea, just like I had an idea for the shop but it's up to Kitty.  Say you have a shipment of work gloves, and you don't know what to charge.  You put a pair on the counter with a sign that reads.  "Guess the price of these gloves and win a free pair."  If someone can’t read you just tell them the deal.  By the end of the week you will know how much people think they are worth."

Kitty, "that's a fine idea, and it can work with any number of things."

I said, "it's just an idea, like the fact that your store is not as big as some of the stores the clothing company’s deal with.  Therefore, they may not want to give you the best deals.  However, if you were to buy a year’s worth of something, you could get the big store discount.  So you can use my money, and I will put it in storage for you.  I'm sure I could make more credits that way, than if I just left my money in the bank."

Kitty, "it will take a little time to find just the right thing to invest in.  But it's a great idea, thank you."

I said, "it don't need to be just one thing.  Maybe a six month supply of two things, or many things, as long as you get a good deal."

Kitty, "well that certainly gives me something to think about."

I said, "is there anything you would like me to bring back from one of the space stations?"

Kitty, "I can't think of what you may be able to find on a space station that you can't find here."

I said, "and you Owsee, what can I get you?  Other than the head of a C.M.A.."

Owsee, "I can't think of anything right now either, just bring me back a good story."

I said, "well now that's an easy one."

Kitty checked the oven as I asked Owsee for another drink.  The smell was just wonderful and I was getting very hungry.  She said it would take just a few more minutes.

Owsee, "I just thought of a drink that Kitty would love.  It's made from a fruit we call Nan, it's long and green but taste like cream.  My father made a nice liqueur from it once."

Kitty, "did you say a fruit that taste like cream?"

Owsee, "yes, you may have seen it the day you went fishing.  It's at the end of the lot by the lake."

Kitty, "you mean the one that grows in large bunches?"

Owsee, "yes, that's the one.  They turn yellow as they get ripe, then black when they are no good."

Kitty, "I may have found my new favorite fruit.  After supper I'm going out to get some."

Owsee, "you'll need a big knife to cut them down with.  It's in the barn, by the back door on the wall."

I said, "have you thought about having a new stock sale?"

Kitty, "it's kind of hard to have a sale when you're trying to compete with the big stores."

I said, "you can just raise the price on some things, then put them on sale.  It's not a real sale, but people think they are saving so they buy."

Owsee, "so that's how the stores do it.  I have been to a lot of sales where I could not figure out why I was not saving credits, now I know why."

Kitty, "so you mean, like if I have a dress that just don't sell; I should figure out what it cost me times two, then sell it for half off."

I said, "my goodness I think she’s got it."

Before long Kitty went in and checked the oven again, then said, "it's ready."

She put it on the dining room table and we went in and sat down.  It looked like lasagna.  She cut big squares of it for each of us.  I cut mine up, and blew on it until it was cool enough to taste.  There was no doubt about it, this was just like lasagna.

We all enjoyed it so much we did not leave any for Goo da wa.

I said, "you need to write the recipe down so I can make it."

Kitty, "sorry, I am sworn to secrecy.  The women of this town never give away a cooking secret to a man."

Owsee, "she has become one of them now."

I said, "yes, I think you're right.  But I have a few recipes of my own, and when I get back I think I'll go to the store and buy one of everything, so I can tell what's good."

Owsee, "I'll go with you, I could be a big help, I can tell you what is not worth trying."

Kitty, "he means like his cooking."

Owsee, "hey, I'm a good cook, I just don't like to cook.  But I programmed every one of the dishes in my ship's computer, and I can't reproduce them in the kitchen at any time.  But like I said, I don't like to cook."

Kitty, "the day you can make anything better than me I will hang up my apron for good."

I said, "now, now, no fighting.  After all, none of us can improve on Goo da wa’s meat sandwich."

Kitty, "he does make a good meat sandwich."

Owsee, "yes he does."

I said, "talk about Goo da wa, I'm thinking about going up to see how things are going.  Anyone want to come with me?"

Owsee, "I'll go with you."

Kitty, "I’m going to find some of that fruit that taste like cream."

I said, "bring some back for me, it sounds good."

So after supper kitty headed for the barn while Owsee and I went to the bar.  On the way I said to Owsee, "I wish we had more of those flying disc I saw Goo da wa on."

Owsee, "so do I, that's the only one I have and I don't know where to find another.  The man I got it from, got it from someone else."

I said, "it would be nice to get to the other side of the mountain without using my ship."

Owsee, "I have a couple of hoppers in the service bay."

I said, "what are hoppers?"

Owsee, "they do just that.  They have super spring legs and can jump very high, then the wings come out and you can glide for a time.  Then you come down and jump up again.  Just don't land on the water, sand can be a problem as well.  You can't carry much and the safety gear can be uncomfortable.  It's best not to have a big meal before you go hopping, and the last time I did it I broke my ankle."

I said, "do we have anything else?"

Owsee, "well, there is a skimmer.  But it only works with less than a foot of clearance, and it likes to break down a lot.  But with your abilities you could keep a hopper up a lot longer and give it a soft landing."

I said, "you're right, I guess I'm always trying to find a way not to use my powers, I bet I could fly if I tried to.  But what I really would like is a two passenger speeder, with deployable wings for cloud hopping, with a adjustable ground clearance of 15 feet."

Owsee, "all I can say is, if you can find one by it!"

I said, "hey, here's one for the jar, "the only difference between men and boys, are the prices of their toys."

Owsee, "I like it because it's true."

Talking as we went, we seem to come to the cave in what seemed to be short order.

We sat down at our usual table on this side of the bar, near the entrance.  There was a sign on the table that said, "Reserved."

I said to Owsee, "see, teach people to write and before long they start making signs to tell you what to do."

Owsee, "yeah, well it's one way to keep our table for us."

On the floor was a metal strip that ran from the wall, around the table, and to the bar.  Above our table, about 10 feet high, was another one; attached to the cave wall.  There was also a remote control on the table.

Goo da wa came over as soon as we sat down.

Owsee said, "what have you done to the table?"

Goo da wa, "just a tweak to make you feel more at home.  The remote has a menu on it.  You have your privacy screen with force field, plus display for information and world wide Web hookup.  You can even keep the rest of the screen up while letting down the one between us, so I can serve you.  And there is a personal intercom to me."

Owsee, "I don't know what to say.  You went to a lot of trouble for something I don't need like I used to."

Goo da wa, "knowing you the way I do, I think it will all come in handy from time to time.  Is there anything I can get you?"

I said, "all I need is rum and a ale."

Owsee, "Vou shrooms and jumbo sticks."

Goo da wa, "I am out of jumbo sticks, but I will bring you the rest."

I then reached over to the sign on the table, and taping it said, "first the do not touch sign, then it's a reserved side, next thing you know there will be signs everywhere telling us what to do."

Owsee, "we can teach people to read and write, but we cannot control how they will use it.  By the way, I have something for you.  My father kept this behind the bar at home, but hardly ever used it."

He showed me a silver flask and said, "you can use it for your spice dew on your trip.  And here is a pouch of fire powder, I think there is more than you can use in two days.  I'm giving you these things now so they are not forgotten tomorrow.  Now put that away for the trip, as I have another bag for us to party with."

And he pulled out a half pound bag and sat it on the table between us.

Then he said, "you can make it fly up your nose but what am I going to do without my jumbo sticks?"

So I took the paper sign and tore a 5 inch piece from it.  Then I rolled it up into a tube and gave it to Owsee who said, "I see we have found another use for paper, very clever."

Goo da wa came back with a picture of ale and two large mugs.  Then he set a 10 gallon keg of rum on the end of the bar next to us, and set out two small mugs for the rum.  Next he set out a small basket of chocolate covered vou shrooms and said, "Will there be anything else?"

I said, "we were thinking of a jar."

Owsee, "the jar of wisdom."

I said, "a jar people could put small bits of paper in with sayings like, "birds of a feather stick together," or, "don't keep all your eggs in one basket," things like that."

Owsee, "and once a week we pick a winner and put their name up as Wiseman of the week.  What do you think?"

Goo da wa, "I think it's a great idea.  I have already started a writers club.  We meet in the afternoons and work on making copies of your poems.  This will give them something new to write."

Owsee, "yes, they can work on making words on their own."

I said, "but please, no signs on the tables."

Owsee, "he has a fear that signs will start popping up like sand flies."

Goo da wa, "if you want yours to be sign free, then that's the way it shall be.  How big do you think the paper for the wisdom jar should be?"

I said, "I don't know, maybe a quarter of a sheet of paper."

Owsee, "I could write on that."

Owsee asked Goo da wa if he would like some of the fire powder we had on the table.

He said, "I still have most of the big bag you left here in case you forgot yours."

Owsee, "how much is left?"

Goo da wa, "I would say about 20 units."

Owsee, "well we got no worries about running out tonight boys."

Goo da wa then said excuse me, as he went to fill a mug or two.

I poured us some rum as I said, "here's to doctors that leave all their meds behind," and we drink a rum toast to them.

Then I ate one of the chocolate covered shrooms.  It was so good I had two more before the first one started to work.  People started to move in slow motion then rewind fast and forward again.

Then Owsee put the privacy screen up and some music on, it was very mellow.

I said to Owsee that we should have brought a keg of the new juice with us, but he didn't seem to hear me.  I wondered if I was speaking out loud or if it was just in my head.  So I tapped him on the shoulder and he turn the music down, and said, "what?"

I said, "we should've brought Goo da wa some of the juice we made today."

He said, "yes, it's good stuff.  We can still do it, or have someone go get it for us."

I said, "that sounds good to me, I pay them with a new poem."

Goo da wa came back with a large jar with a sheet of paper taped to it that read, "WORDS OF WISDOM."

Goo da wa said we must be the first to put something in the jar and he gave us paper, quills, and ink.  Owsee told him we wanted two men to bring a keg of juice to the bar from the barn.  That they could use the transport and would be paid with a new poem.

Goo da wa went to see who was interested and six men all wanted to go.  So they all put their names on folded pieces of paper and dropped them in a bowl for Goo da wa to pick two.  Then the two came over to the table.  I turn the screen off and told them where in the bar the kegs were, and that they could bring it up on the transport.  Owsee did not even look up, as he was working on what he was writing.  The men left for the keg as Owsee was blowing  the fresh ink to dry it so he could write his name on the back.

I wrote down, "a credit saved is a credit earned, "and, "a smile is something you can give away and still keep."

Owsee had written, "the best gift you can give to someone is your friendship."

He said he would write more later as it came to him.  I said I was not sure how to sign it, what I want to be called.

He said, "call yourself the poet, as we do not have any on this planet.  We have storytellers but no one that can make words dance the way you do."

So I signed my paper, "a poet," and after the ink was dry I put it in the jar and the jar back on the bar.  I told Goo da wa that anyone should be able to read what was in the chair, that was free.  He said that would show people what we are looking for and that people will come in just to read what was in the jar.

I said, "and have a drink while they read."

I popped two more of the chocolate covered shrooms in my mouth and chewed on that great flavor.  Then things started to move in slow motion again, then backwards, then forward and there was a few sparks of light, and everything got very mellow.  It was all very interesting.

Goo da wa had taken the jar down the bar and was showing what we had written.  Then he came back with a small jar of yellow goo that he said was cave mushrooms.

He said, "I took it to the doctor to find out if it was poisonous.  He said it was filled with LSD and THC, but should not be fatal if taken in small amounts.  I tried some earlier this morning and didn't come back for hours, you're welcome to it.  There is more in the back cave."

I said, "I don't know about you, but I need to wait until those two come back so I can pay them."

Owsee, "I think Kitty said she was going to bring some of that cream fruit up here.  I don't want to be too far gone before she goes back home, you know how she gets."

I said, "I feel the same way, even though we now have the security screen."

Before long Kitty and the two men were back with the juice.  The two men rolled it to the open end of the bar as Kitty brought over some of the cream fruit.  It looked like a banana, but the taste was a bit like cream and rather sweet.

Kitty, "I just got back to the porch when those two came by for the juice, so I drove them up here."

Owsee, "I told them they could use the transport.  Did they have a hard time getting the barrel on the back?"

Kitty, "no, we used the pull out ramp and rolled it up."

Owsee, "good, now Goo da wa has something different to sell.  By the way, he liked the wisdom jar idea."

Kitty, "oh good, I'll write something down later.  Are you two going to be up late?"

I said, "yes, I think we are."

Owsee, "you can take the transport back with you, we won't be needing it."

Kitty said okay, and went to talk to Goo da wa at the other end of the bar.  The two men came over for their payment and I gave each of them a new poem.  They seemed happy with their payment.  Owsee said they would most likely trade it for a pitcher of beer and asked me what I wrote.

I said, "I will tell you, but you cannot repeat it because they belong to them."

He said he would not tell anyone and just wanted to hear the poems.

So I said, "the first one was a short one I call, "it matters."

"It matters a lot whether I sleep or not, but my daily pay is the break of day.  And the sun sets fire dose so me inspire, that I'll seek it out as my daily route.

I must sleep when I can in this life's brief span, but inspiration and daily pay are a plan I'll follow every day."

And the other man I gave one called, "the greatest passion."

"The greatest passion ever throw, deservedly to one alone.

For through my tears of joy and pain, there is but one that did sustain.

Full hearted I thank the above, in all of life I have one love.

That I am sure stands by my side, even with me now will abide.

No matter what life ever sends, I'll love my pillow to the end."

Owsee, "I liked both of them, but I'm too messed up to remember them for long anyway.  How do you remember them in the state you are in?"

I said, "they are my children, how could I forget them?"

Kitty then came back to the table long enough to give me a kiss, and tell me not to get too messed up, then she left.

I said, "Kitty didn't stay very long."

Owsee, "she is trying to avoid temptation until the children are born.  She is not being rude, take my word for it.  There is nothing she would like better than to get drunk with you, but she will not until after she gives birth."

I said, "most men have a chance to get to know their mate before they start having children."

Owsee, "yes, things did move a bit fast for you too.  But sometimes that's the way it goes.  If you know you want something, you have to move while it is still available.  Live in the moment."

I said, "Talking about the moment, let's see if these cave mushrooms work as good for me as they did for Goo da wa."

So I reached in the jar, pulled out a cube of it and put it on my tongue.  I could feel a small burn then a numbness that went to my nose.

Next, there was a cool rush that ran up and down my arms and legs, and my head felt like it was just floating above my shoulders.  Then all the people in the room were gone, and I could hear the sound of drums.  The fire pit lit itself, and the flames reached the ceiling 100 feet high.  The chairs started to dance around the fire with the tables, and the smoke became spirits that flew around the room.  There was wave after wave of color, but then the music stopped, the fire went out and the people came back in a flash of light."

I took a sip of my ale and said to Owsee, "how long was I gone?"

Owsee, "gone?  I didn't even know you left.  You just tasted this a moment ago."

I said, "it was a great trip and seemed to last at least 10 minutes."

Owsee, "let me try some."

So he got a little on his finger and put it in his mouth.  As he pulled his finger out I could see a blank look on his face.  And then he blinked and was back.  He asked how long.  I said about 10 seconds.

Owsee, "that was a good trip and it only took a few seconds.  This stuff is like nothing I have ever had before."

I said, "yes it's very good.  However, it seems to effect Goo da wa differently than us.  He said he was gone for hours, or maybe it just seemed that way to him."

Owsee, "I wonder if the more you use the better the trip?"

Then he stuck his finger in the jar again and pulled out a small glob then sucked his finger off.  He did not seem to be gone any longer than before.  So I ate a bit more this time and the trip did seem to last longer, with more intense colors.  Owsee said I was back in less than a minute, but it seemed more like a half hour.

By this time, my mouth was getting very dry.  So I got on the intercom with Goo da wa, and asked him for a glass of juice.  He brought it over right away and I said to him, "by the way, I am going on a trip tomorrow as far as the third station.  Is there anything I can bring you?"

Goo da wa, "I cannot think of anything right now, but if I do I will let you know."

I said, "I will be working on a story during the trip.  It should have enough pages to it for you to give one away each night, for up to three weeks.  If you draw a map of where your place is on the back of each page, then you may be able to draw in new customers from the outing areas."

Goo da wa, "that's a great idea.  It will bring repeat customers as well as new ones.  How will I be able to pay you?  What would you like?"

I said, "you just keep teaching people to read.  Owsee wants me to teach the whole world you know, so we have to start somewhere.  I'm hoping to draw people as far away as the city."

Goo da wa, "that's a long way for a drink, but maybe not too far for a new story."

I said, "that's why we need to give them something special."

Goo da wa, "well you're becoming something special.  And as long as you're handed out new stories you will never have a tab here.  Just like Owsee."

I thank him and put a good pinch of fire powder in my juice then topped it off with rum.  I took a big gulp and it went down smoothly.

I then turned to Owsee and said, "I don't think I will stay up all night.  I will need at least a few brain cells working in order to fly your ship."

Owsee, "why?  I programmed it to respond well, even if I was out of my head, which has become my normal state of being these days."

I said, "yeah, for you that may be a way to living, but for me it is an occasion I'm not used to."

Owsee, "in other words, before me life was no party.

I said, "you could put it that way."

Owsee, "so before me you did what you had too, in order to get by and get around.  Now you can do what makes you happy.  Life can be a party if you're having fun in what you do."

I said, "I don't know, some of that is true.  However, I do not want to do things just because they are fun.  I want to feel like I am doing the right thing, and making a difference as well.  I guess that's just another thing that makes me feel good."

Owsee, "and that's why you are making this run.  It's not just to put some space under you and give your mind some wings, even though it's just for a few days.  It’s because this is the right thing to do, and you will be helping others, that's what makes us human."

I said, "you're right, about all of it."

Owsee, "so you're not making the trip just for the money."

I said, "if it was just for the money I would not be taking fish."

Owsee, "that's what I am talking about, that's the fun part.  It's the danger that gives like a spark."

I then took a piece of paper and wrote down, "taste death, live life!"  Then I showed it to Owsee.

He said, "yes, that's what I'm talking about.  Remember the poem in which you said, there is no delight that can stir the soul like a good fright?  But of course I would never let you get over your head or put you in danger."

I said, "danger is not a problem, as long as it's a fair fight.  And as for getting in over my head, I've always been good at floating."

Owsee, "that may be true, but we also need to think about the ones around us.  When it comes to war the ones that started it are not always the ones that end up hurt."

I said, "that's a good one, you should write it down for the jar."

And so he did, while I drank my rum and juice, and wrote one down myself.  It was, "walk softly but carry a big stick."

While waiting for the ink to dry, I said that I thought people once used fine sand to help it dry.

Owsee, "there is a lot of sand on the other side of the mountain, but is it fine enough?"

I said, "I think we would still need to grind it up until it's a powder."

Owsee, "we could use fire powder, ha ha."

I said, "I just knew you were going to say that, but I don't think we should start using it for that."

Owsee, "you're right, the powder is just for us."

I said, "what I really would like to find, or make, is a copying machine."

Owsee, "how does it work?"

I said, "you put a sheet of paper in it, and it makes as many copies as you want.  It's a lot faster than doing it all by hand."

Owsee, "sounds good, let's get one."

I said, "I don't know if we can find one on this side of the galaxy."

Owsee, "well if you find one, or someone that is willing to make one, I'll pay for it.  I'm tired of making copies by hand."

I said, "we will need one to make all the copies of the books I’m going to write."

Owsee, "what is a book?"

I said, "they are stories on paper, but they can have hundreds of pages."

Owsee, "that's a lot of pages."

I said, "that's why I will need a copier.  With a book, you don't need to pay a storyteller for each story.  You just buy the book for the price of a pair of boots and you can read it over and over again whenever you like, for no extra credits."

Owsee, "sounds like you are going to put the storytellers out of business."

I said, "there will always be a place for someone that can tell a good story.  Besides, most of the storytellers will become writers and the world will know their names.  You and I will be known as the first ones."

Owsee, "you are going to make a writer out of me?  I don't think so."

I said, "you are already a writer, your words are in the wisdom jar."

Owsee, "those are just a few words, not a book."

I said, "books are just pages, and pages are just words."

Owsee, "maybe so, but it sounds like it would take a long time for me to write a book."

I said, "perhaps, but a book can be reprinted and reread generation after generation.  Your words will live long after you are gone, and not be forgotten because someone did not want to pay the storyteller.  These are the reasons that drive people to write, even if it takes a lifetime to get the words down."

Owsee, "sounds a bit like a immortality, I don't know if I could find the words I would want to be remembered by."

I said, "well, that's always a challenge.  You just need to write about something you know, like how to make weed liqueur.  You do know how to make it don't you?"

Owsee, "I can make anything that my father did."

I said, "okay then, while I’m gone write down how to make it.  Make a list of things like:  How to pick the right buds, do I need to separate it from the seed, do I grind it up, how to ferment it, do I put something in it, how to cook or distil it, how to store it in a bottle or keg.  Pretend I am a child that needs to know every detail.  This could be the first chapter of your first book.  Just write things down as they come to you, then put them in order later.  This is your first writing assignment, have something ready for me when I get back."

Owsee, "I don't know if I'm ready to write something so long, there are still a lot of words I don't know."

I said, "you could probably tell me all there is to know in less than an hour, all I’m asking is that you write it down."

Owsee, "I'll write down as much as I can, and we will leave it at that."

I said, "that's all I'm asking."

I finished off my drink and make another one.  Then packed my pipe and lit it as a few members of the band showed up and started to play.

It was only a drummer and a man with a horn but they were good.  Goo da wa lit the center pit for more light, and the place started to feel like a party.

Owsee and I kept the privacy screen up so no one would know how wasted we were.

I rested my eyes as I thought about the trip I would start tomorrow, the people I would meet and what I would say to them.

I then opened my eyes and realized I had fallen asleep, and my body was stiff all over.  Owsee was at the other end of the bar talking to Goo da wa.  The band had gone home and there was only a few men left in the bar.

I got up to stretch, took a sip of my drink then went to the other end of the bar and said, "how long did I sleep?"

Goo da wa, "most of the night, it will be daylight soon."

Owsee, "don't feel bad, I took a nap myself."

"Can you make me one of your meat sandwiches?"  I asked Goo da wa.

He said, "sure thing, coming right up."

I said, "did Kitty come by last night while we were out cold?"

Owsee, "no, Goo da wa said no one came by while we were out."

I said, "good, I don't want kitty to see me like that."

Owsee, "it was only a nap, she takes him all the time.  And besides I think you need it, I think we both did."

I said, "oh, I hope I never get more messed up than I was last night."

Owsee, "it's not possible, you pass out first."

I said, "and yet I don't feel that bad."

Owsee, "you were mixing your drink, it was the fruit juice that helped."

I said, "it’s good juice."

Goo da wa, "here is your sandwich."

I said, "that was fast."

Goo da wa, "Owsee tells me you were going to find or make a copier."

I said, "we are going to try at least."

Goo da wa, "it sounds like a handy thing to have."

I said, "yes, we are going to need one, or two."

Owsee, "two?"

I said, "yes, we don't want to stop working when one breaks down, and they will, from time to time.  I just hope we can find an engineer from this planet to work on it, interplanetary house calls could be costly."

Owsee, "we have not even made it yet and he is thinking about it breaking down already."

I said, "I do a lot of what-if thinking.  It keeps me from being surprised when things don't go my way."

Goo da wa, "Owsee tells me you gave him some homework to do until you get back."

I said, "yes I did, and not to leave you out of it I want you to write me a short story about what it takes to run a bar, as well as how you got into it.  And while you're at it, how you make the best meat sandwich I have ever tasted."

Goo da wa, "I will not give away the secret to my meat sandwich.  But I will write down some things about what it takes to be a bartender and how I got started."

I said, "do you see Owsee?  Just like kitty, they find something we love and keep it a secret."

Goo da wa, "so you will keep coming back."

Owsee, "even last night when we thought kitty may be late in getting home we thought of coming up here to get a sandwich."

I said, "you're right, he has us by the taste buds."

Owsee, "I have been thinking about the scanner at the clinic.  We could reconfigure it to do a surface scan of a sheet of paper with writing on it, and replaced it with a blank page to make copies."

I said, "it may work, but I don't like the idea of messing around with the doc’s equipment.  It's just not meant for that kind of thing and it can't be replaced."

Owsee, "you're right, I should check every engineering school on the planet to find someone that can try to build our copier.  It will take up all my time, and I probably will not be able to write a word until I get an answer."

I said, "as your friend I laughed, as your teacher I will be disappointed in you, and that is all I will say."

Owsee, "well maybe I will have time to put down some thoughts I can put in order latter, I'll work on it."

I said, "good for you, all I ask is that you try.  Hey, I have one for the jar.  “A buried treasure will bear no fruit."

Goo da wa, "I like that one, I'll write it down."

I took a sip of my juice and said, "you know the one thing I miss about Earth is having a cup of coffee in the morning.  30 years in space and more planets that I can remember, yet none of them had anything like it.  But the fire water is close, yet it doesn't have that rich taste.  By the way, Goo da wa, how late do you stay open?"

Goo da wa, "I never close, but most people leave before Sunup."

I said, "so you sleep from then until afternoon?"

Goo da wa, "I don't sleep the way you do.  My race just rest or meditates for hours on end, not moving but still aware of our surroundings."

I said, "I do that myself sometimes, but only if I'm alone."

Goo da wa, "yes, we must be alone.  We have a saying, it's hard to stare at the universe when someone is typing your shoulder."

Owsee, "I like that one, let's put it in the jar."

Goo da wa, "most people will not know what it means."

I said, "you're right, let's keep that one for ourselves."

And I walked to the entrance to the cave and looked at the two moons that were just about gone from the night sky.  I took a deep breath of the fresh air that would soon have the scent of dawn on it.

I sat on a rock and looked at the stars well lighting my pipe.

So was this it?"  I said to myself.  Was this as far as I would ever go?  What more could I hope for than this?  How could I leave all of this just to see what was past the next star?  Perhaps I no longer needed to be star gate hopping in one direction only.  If I had been born here I may not of gone to the stars in the first place.  Have I spent 30 years in space only to find I should have been born here to start with.  Or was it the journey that made this the right place all along?

Then one of the men from the bar put his hand on my shoulder as he passed and said, "goodnight teacher."

I said, "go carefully."

I turned to see two more leaving that said, "goodnight teacher."  I also told them to go carefully.

There were still two more at the bar with Owsee and goo da wa.  They were looking over the jar of wisdom and found something I have wrote that had a silent vowel in it.

One man was saying we didn't need letters that have no sound to them.  The others said that if we are going to learn it, let's do it right.

I walked over to the bar and said, "I hear you're talking about silent letters.  I don't understand them myself, and in the future I would like to try not to use them.  But there are words I just don’t know how to spell any other way."

One man said, "what if we want to write to others of your race, should we not understand the extra letters?"

I said, "well I don't understand why some of those letters are there.  But if you want to write earth and asked them, it should only take about 10 to 20 years to get a reply.  That is if anyone on Earth is still using English anymore."

The man said, "I know this is important, but I'm not sure why yet."

I said, "before long I will start to write books with hundreds of pages to them.  And some of those words will have silent letters to them, because that is the only way I know how to spell them."

The other man said, "why not put it on a recorder?"

I said, "because there is wisdom to be found in silence."

I then went back to the table at the other end of the bar and put the security screen up.  I sipped my drink and looked outside at the night sky through puffs of smoke.

A few moments later Goo da wa was nailing a piece of paper up on the ear-wood on this end of the bar.  It read, "winner of this week's words of wisdom," and under it was a piece of paper with the words, "there is wisdom to be found in silence."

I took it as an apology for putting me on the spot about writing.

Day 9

I took a little nap, only to be awakened by Owsee saying, "the sun is up, let's get some breakfast."

I stood up and cleared off the table by putting the empty mugs on the bar, and started to walk with Owsee.  I turned to say goodbye to Goo da wa, but did not see him.  The sun was just up over the hills, and I saw only one bird in flight to the lake for a morning drink.  As we walked, I thought about all the little things that still needed to be done before I could take off.

Owsee said, "if Kitty is still asleep I want pancakes."

I said, "the only way to get up before Kitty is not to go to bed at all."

Owsee, "well I guess that means we are up before her for a change."

I said, "I bet she is asleep on the front porch."

Owsee, "I bet you're right, I think I can see her from here."

As we got closer, we could see she was there alright, on the love seat with a pillow under her head.

As soon as we stepped on the porch she set up with a yawn and said, "good morning, who wants breakfast?"

Owsee said, "I want pancakes."

I said, "I was thinking about French toast, if you like pancakes you'll love French toast, and I'll show you how to make it."

Owsee, "okay let's have French toast."

Then Kitty said, "okay so teach me to make French toast."

So we went in the kitchen and I showed her what to do.  Then I went into the living room and sat down on the sofa.  But in what seemed to be a blink of an eye, Kitty was calling me to the table.  Owsee was already there and we passed things around until we all had what we wanted.

There was butter, jam, berries and nuts, milk, juice and fresh fruit on the table.

Owsee said, "I can't get over how good this is.  I thought pancakes were the best, now this is on the top of my list."

I said, "if you think that's good, wait until I make my crepes. I make them with jam or cheese inside."

Owsee, "it all sounds good.  Between the two of you, I bet you could write a cookbook.  Is that what you would call it, a cookbook?"

I said, "cookbooks are very well read on my home planet, and there are a lot of them; each with its own secrets and tips.  And unlike here, the women on my planet find it in good taste to teach others as much as they can, even the men learn.  As a matter of fact, some of our best chefs are men."

I then took my dish into the kitchen, with Kitty close behind with the other ones, she said she would clean them.

I then got the mugs and juice as I said, "I have a lot of things I need to do before I take off, but I should see you in about two days."

Kitty reached around my neck and pulled me close.  Then gave me a passionate kiss and said, "now you be careful out there."

I said I would.  And with that, I went out to the barn with Owsee close behind.

As we walked Owsee asked how I would like to move the power cells back to the ship.

I said, "let's put them on the transport, so people won’t see me levitating them to the lake."

Owsee, "okay but they are too heavy for me to move.  I'll need some special help from you just to get them on the transport."

I said, "I can handle that."

So I put my hand on the first one and thought, “it as light as a feather.”  I picked it up as if it was a beach ball, then walked over and put it on the back of the transport.  I did the others the same way.  As I was loading the last one Kitty had just come out of the house, and seeing me put it on the transport said, "I didn't realize how strong you were."

It almost broke my concentration as I was setting it down.  I then turned to see her wave goodbye as she headed to work.

I said, "we'd better tie the cells down, even though it's a short drive."

Owsee, "you're right, it's no good if one of these bad boys get loose."

So Owsee got a rope from the barn and told me he was never very good with knots so I had better do it.

As I was tying down the cylinders Owsee brought out a keg of fresh juice and put it on the transport, saying, "you may want something fresh to drink on your trip."

He then went back in and came out with a big sack that he tossed up.

I asked, "what’s this?"

He said, "bud, enough to pass out on all the stations."

I said, "dam, these guys are going to really love to see me."

Then he brought out three bags to fill with fruit for the dock workers.  So we drove up the dirt road next to the orchard and stopped half way and pick the fruit.

Owsee said they should like the big yellow ones.  There was no one in sight, so I had Owsee hold the bags while I used the power of my telekinetic enhancer to pick the fruit, and have it fly into the bags.  They were the size of a grapefruit but its sections tasted like an orange, very sweet.

We then drove across the field to the ship and unloaded.  After getting the power cells in place, we went fishing.

Owsee said, "this ought to be good."

We went to the edge of the waters and I stretch out my hand, while thinking of a great net in the water.  I slowly pulled my 30 foot wide telekinetic net on shore.  There were hundreds of fish.  I thought of only the large ones and made them rise up and fly into the tank of water.  Then I pushed the rest of them back into deep water and they swam away.

Owsee said, "you make one hell of a fisherman," and that we had at least 60 large fish per container.  That would give each dockworker at least two each.

I asked Owsee if it was too much out of the lake.  He said the lake had not been well finished in over 30 years.  And because we put the small ones back and this was a one-time deal, it would be fine.  So we put the tops on the containers and locked them down.

Owsee said, "your power is sure a timesaver."

I said, "yes, but I hope no one saw me."

Owsee, "it's still early, people are not out yet."

I said, "I still want to keep this thing a secret as long as I can."

Owsee, "the people of the town know you have a power, the only secret is that you have the telekinetic enhancer."

I said, "and that is what I want to keep a secret.  It could be a temptation for someone to try to take it away from me.  And in the wrong hands, while I don't even want to think about it."

We got on the ship and power her up.  The thrusters sounded smooth and strong.

I asked Owsee if he wanted to take the controls.  He said, "no, I think I'll leave this one is up to you."

So I pulled up, over the containers, set down lightly on top and engage the clamps.  I lifted them up in a smooth motion, and we were off.

Owsee, "I have never seen it done better before.  With moves like that, you could work anywhere.  It's no wonder the guild gave you a free ticket."

I said, "work -- yes, live -- no.  And there is a lot more to life than how you spend your time working."

Owsee, "that's so true, but most of us never get past the, I need a job part."

Then he pointed out where the mountains sloped at the edge of the hidden lake.  He said that was where I needed to put the nose of the big ship to take on water.

Owsee, "and I want you to take each of the three stations a full 2500 units of water each."

I said, "but if I take them that much they will not have room to take on their full shipment when the CM tankers come, they will be onto us."

Owsee, "yes, but I want them to know they can no longer hold the stations hostage with a little water.  Do you know why they called the dock workers RATS?"

I said, "yes it stands for, “Rough And Tarnished Souls.”

Owsee, "that's right, yet most of them would not commit a crime just to get off the station.  If you find a dockworker, or he finds you, that wants to leave, please feel free to bring them here.  We can get them jobs in the city without a problem.  Or maybe a transport back to their home world if they like."

I said, "if I start taking dockworkers they will be on me in a day.  You know it is illegal to give any station worker that has a contract with the CM an unauthorized ride."

Owsee, "the Mining Guild protects the minors but there is no protection or rights for the station workers.  That's why they treat them like slaves."

I said, "there should be a dock workers Union."

Owsee, "the CM would never allow it.  They would just get new workers from overcrowded planet and give them what looked like a good contract.  But when the workers get to the stations they find there is no one to stand up for their rights and no way out."

I said, "if the dockworkers could join up with the Miners Guild they would have the power to make it right."

Owsee yes, but the Mining Guild will not go that far.  They make too much on the contracts they have with the CM.  And there are just not enough dockworkers to make it work a strike."

I said, "I always thought it would give the guild more power.  Dockworkers are the heart of any station.  Without them ships don't move, and mines shut down.  There is no water or food if the dockworker will not put it on a ship, and that's a line I would not want to cross."

Owsee, "you're right, and the workers have tried to unite themselves a number of times.  Only to find themselves locked up for their troubles, or relocated to a place where no one ever heard from them again."

I said, "so the only way to make it better is to run a freedom ship, anyone that wants to leave can do so.  That way the only thing the CM could do, to stop the workers from leaving, is to make it better."

Owsee, "you can get away with it once, but if you try it again they will hunt you down and blow you away."

I said, "that's the danger of trying to change things."

Owsee, "a little water from time to time they will overlook to some degree.  Even a one-time dockworkers walk off to freedom, may not cause them to come after you.  But they have many big, powerful ships, to enforce their will over the stations.  You don't dare to keep showing up to take workers off.  That's why even the crystal Pirates will not give the RATS a ride, they would hunt them down."

I said, "I can disable any ship that comes after me.  But if they send more than one they may get off a few shots before I can shut them down.  That's why I will need a ship that can take a some hits."

Owsee, "you want to build a warship?"

I said, "no, a freedom ship."

Owsee, "that's asking a lot.  Let's try to get through this one trip, in one piece, before we talk about taking on the whole CM battle fleet."

I said, "you're right, let's get this one over before starting a war."

I set the containers down next to the side of the ship they were to be loaded into, then landed nearby.

Owsee said he was going to put the chips back in the computers while I unloaded my ship, and put the supplies on his.  So I set the bag of buds on my shoulder, then just told the keg of juice and the three bags of fruit to lead the way.  There was no one to see me playing with my new powers out here, and we looked like some kind of a parade, as I levitated the supplies to the ship.

I put it all in the cargo bay and went out to start on the containers.  I moved them slowly, as the slightest mistake could damage the containers of fish and water.  I did not want any leaks to deal with.

When I went back on board Owsee was on the bridge, done putting in the chips and running system checks.

Owsee, "it's all up and running, come here and look at the water take on maneuvers."

He showed me a topical graph of the area and how we just draw a line and tap in the course, then where the water take on symbol was, and that I must tap it when it flashes full.  He said I must then lay in a take off course, but when I got back through the gate just to hit the home course symbol and it would bring me right here.

I said, "good, the one thing I was not sure about was finding this mountain out of all the ones on your planet."

Owsee, "I put a few things that I had in storage in the mess hall for you.  Oh, and when you get back, if you decide to use a hopper take it outside first or you'll bounce off the walls."

We said our goodbyes then he went to my ship and took off for home.

After I was sure he was far enough away I engage the engines, and started on my preprogram course to the water take on spot.

I could feel the rumble of the engines as the big ship started to take off.  I was glad to be setting down or I would've fallen.  Outside of my windows I could only see dust as the ship rose from the desert and headed toward the mountains.

The ride soon smoothed out and we were at the water take on spot in less than a minute.  The hose deployed automatically and the water started to fill the tank.

Owsee said it would not take long, but that I needed to hit the shut down symbol as soon as it started to flash.  I was a bit tense as I waited for the tanks to fill.  How long would it take to suck up over 7000 units of water?  The seconds seemed to drag on and on.  Then the light came on and I hit the stop button, the hose retracted and I was ready to go.

I plotted a course to the first Star gate and hit the engage.  We were off!

It was a bit rough until the ship got out of the atmosphere, then there was no vibration at all.  The ship was on auto now and would stop when we got to the first gate.  So I went down to the mess hall to see what Owsee had left me.  It seemed strange walking the hallways, knowing no one else was on board.

When I got to the mess hall there was a sign that read, "go to storage box 0021 =>."

At the end of the wall were a great number of boxes in the walls like at a bus station.  0021 was on the bottom, and about 4 x 4 feet in size.  I hit the open button and it slid out with a whoosh, pushing my foot out of the way as it came.  I shall remember to stand to one side next time.  There was something like a bubble wrap on the top, which deflated and sucked itself back into the wall as I touched it.  The box had a 5 gallon keg of rum in it, a bottle of bud liqueur, two bottles of detox water and a note that read, "be wise, be safe, be back soon."

I put the bottle of bud liqueur and the two bottles of detox water in my shoulder bag and moved the rum to the hall.  Then went down to the storage bay to get the barrel of juice and brought them up to the bridge.  I made myself a drink, and sat down for a smoke and a rest.

I must have dozed off, for the next thing I knew I was at the gate and it was requesting my destination.

I told it the first station in this sector and a corporate mining android came online, and said, "please declare your cargo and prepare to be scanned for contraband."

I said, "I had a free pass, no declaring of cargo.  Guild #624, 792, 647, 012.  I then ran my finger across a DNA scanner.  A few moments later the CMA said, "thank you for your cooperation, have a safe trip."

The gate then powered up and I moved through into hyperspace.

I drank my drink and told myself to get some rest, but it was not easy as I had slept the night before.  Then I remembered I had a bottle of bud liqueur.  So I reached under the table for a short glass and poured myself a few shots.  I sipped it as I smoked and played around with the view screen to find out how far I had to go, but all it would save was, "in transit."

At least that's what my translators said it was saying.  If this ship had a written language it could have been saying I was off course and I would never know it.  Now if I could only understand their number system I would be set.  They probably got it from another race anyway.

I started to think about those fish.  So I went down to the containers and opened the tops just enough to give them some more air.  I was lucky that even the cargo decks of had gravity plates in the floor.

Then I went to the other end of the cargo bay, to look at the hoppers Owsee was talking about.  I found a pair stuffed behind a palette tied to the wall.  They did not look like much.  Just some fast hydraulics on the legs and a pair of re-tractable wings, no thrusters.  But there was a picture on the side, of a man in a suit with body padding and a helmet.  I thought to myself, if those things can jump a mile -- then what would it feel like to fall from a mile jump?  I think I would rather walk.

After getting myself something to eat, I went back to the bridge.

I was having another drink when I thought I saw a large black ship just to one side of me.  More like a shadow of a figure, then it was gone.  It did not go left or right, it just went.  I'm not sure if it was looking me over or was just on the same course.  For a moment I thought I would like a better look at it, then I thought it might be better that it was gone.

Just then, the ship dropped into normal space, not far from the station.

I turned around and got ready for my next jump.  This time I not only gave it my DNA scan but my Guild number as well, and the gate powered up without a CMA inquiry.  I set course and made the jump.

On my way to the station to buy poured myself a glass of bud liqueur and drank it down, then laid back for a nap.

I soon woke up with the feeling I was being watched.

The black ship was out there are again, just far enough away that I could not see it well.

“Is there anybody out there?”

This time I had an idea, and I took a drink of my spice dew.  It got me out there but not all the way and not for long, so I took a bigger drink, and found myself in front of black ship.  I let my mind move inside and took a look around.  Then I saw a short gray skinned man, that seem to know I was there, next I was pulled back to my body again.  I was going to take a third drink when the ship was gone again.  Well at least I have an idea of what was flying that ship, but how did he know I was there?  Well anyway, he did not seem to be a threat.  I wondered if his ship could hide as well in normal space?

Just then my ship dropped back into normal space again, and I headed for the station.  I found a spot at the far end of the dock that I could pull up to.  The docking tube extended and made contact with my hatch.

I went down to the hatch and checked the pressure, then open it to see a man in black with a six-foot metal pole, standing at the end of the dock.  I undid my sash, and open my cloak, to show my gold and silver Elvin wear beneath.

The man then walked up to me and said, "they call me Ranger."

I said let's go, and he came aboard.  I closed the hatch and hit the detach button so no one could follow.

"This way," I said, as I led the way to the bridge.

We moved swiftly, yet I still heard the tap of his staff as he walked.

He stood by the observation windows, looking at the dock, as I got on the controls.  Then I pulled us away from the station and toward the gate.

I put in my information, just like before, include in my Guild number of 624, 792, 647, 012; and station E3 as my destination.  I got nothing, so I did it again.  Still nothing, not even a CMA to argue too about it.

The Ranger said, "I don't think they want me to leave."

I said, "do you know where the on switch is for the gate?"

He pointed and said, "down there, why?"

I said, "because I'm tired of being polite."

I then pulled out my spice dew, took a large drink, and set my mind to the bottom of the gate.  I quickly found the switch and pushed it to the open position.  I was pulled back to my body just as we were sucked through the gate, and the ship had a good fix on the station three beacon.

I then said, "if you don't want to talk to me that's okay too."

He pulled his hood down, turned around and said, "how can you do that?"

I pointed to the a seat next to me, and he came over as I said, "telekinesis’s."

Ranger, "and he drink?"

I said, "a telepathic enhancer, I need to see something in order to move it."

Ranger, "well I guess there is no stopping you if you can open gates on your own."

I said, "I would appreciate it if you don't spread that around."

Ranger, "no problem, I'm quite good with secrets, there are even some things I will not tell myself."

I said, "well I hope you can tell me who to sell my crystals to."

Ranger, "sorry, can't help you there, promise not to tell."

I said, "then why am I taking you to E3?"

Ranger, "because I am going to show you the man, not tell you, and because I needed a ride.  I was beginning to feel like I had worn out my welcome back there."

I said, "for a man they didn't want around, they sure didn’t let you go easily."

Ranger, "yeah well you know these CM types, they can never just go one way on anything."

I said, "well at any rate I bet I pissed them off."

Ranger, "I would say they will be more interested in how you did it, than that it was done.  But don't worry about the lift, they expected me to get off the station, somehow I always do."

I said, "it will be me and the ship they will want to stop by tomorrow anyway."

Ranger, "planning something big are we?"

I said, "freedom for all RATS and a ride to a new world."

Ranger, "it's dangerous for you to talk like that, but to do it, this I would love to see."

I said, "I'm starting with station three.  When I turn around, I will let any dock worker that wants to leave come with me.  And the same at station two and one."

Ranger, "the CM considers me to be a nuisance, but you're a rebel.  Do you truly think you can get away with it?"

I said, "I have no doubt I can do it once.  It's the coming back next month and freeing more I'm not sure about."

Ranger, "coming back, are you mad?  You won't even get past the first station before they send a ship after you."

I said, "just one ship is easy, as long as I see it coming."

Ranger, "easy he says, they will set a battleship to stop you."

I said, "I only hope they think just one will be enough.  If they send two or three I may need to hurt someone.  By the way, do you know of a race of grays that fly Black ships?"

Ranger, "you mean here, in hyperspace?"

I said, "yes, I saw one -- twice.  The second time I took a drink and went aboard."

Ranger, "went aboard, you mean telepathically.  Well the only thing I can tell you is that no one seems to know anything about them.  It is largely considered bad luck to see one.  It may be best if you keep the sighting to yourself.  The people you're about to meet can be a bit superstitious.  And considering what you are planning, you're not off to a good start."

I said, "I like his ship, I could use a ship like that."

Ranger, "yes, nice ships, very stealthily.  By the way, this is a nice big ship.  I have never seen anyone run a ship this size by themselves."

I said, "it’s very automated and belongs to a friend of mine.  But I will soon own it, I just need to do a favor for him."

Ranger, "a favor, must be a big favor for such a ship."

I said, "yes it is.  He wants me to teach his world to read and write."

Ranger, "oh is that all, just teach a whole planet to read and write.  You don't do things in a small way now do you?"

I said, "well after 50 years or so of living, I find the small things tend to take care of themselves; if you keep your eye on the big picture."

Ranger, "so I guess if you think of the freedom and equal rights of the dock workers to be the big picture, then the monthly freedom ship is just one of those small details you're talking about."

I said, "that's one way of putting it.  I know this ship will be marked, and I dare not use it again if I don't want to draw attention; they will also have an eye out for me.  These are some of the small things I just take for granted.  Like you, and the way you knew they did not want you to leave the station.  We all have things like that to over come in our lives, no matter what our goals are."

Ranger, "this is all true, and it's good to have some help from other from time to time.  And if you're going to make the plans you have in mind work, you will need a lot of help.  These kinds of operations will take many credits.  There are not as many freedom fighters, like us, as I would like to have for this kind of cause."

I said, "some of the dock workers can become freedom fighters but it's the ships I need, that's the hard part.  I am not without wealth but I have my limits."

Ranger, "credits can buy a lot of things, even loyalty.  The CM pays their spies well, and yet you don't seem to be worried about telling me all your plans."

I said, "you're a Ranger, and that's not just a name.  Your people have a code you live and die by."

Ranger, "what do you know about my people?"

I said, "I know they are the eyes and ears of a home world that has sent its people through the universe, with a code of conduct to help the oppressed whenever they can."

Ranger, "you make us so much grander than we really are.  But you're right that I will help you, from time to time, if I can."

I said, "I'm glad to hear it.  Would you like some juice?  Fresh squeezed yesterday."

Ranger, "why yes?  I'll try some."

I poured him a mug, he took a sip, then a drink and said, "this is rather good, what is it?"

I said, "it's a juice from the planet, "Lor re et."  My translator calls it sweet tart, would you like some rum?"

Ranger, "no thank you.  We don't drink anything that has alcohol or drugs in it that may impair our thinking."

I said, "well I hope my smoke does not bother you."

Ranger, "it's a large room and your ventilation system seems to be working well."

I said, "well I’m glad I brought the juice.  Help yourself, the keg is full and I have plenty more back home."

Ranger, "thank you, you're very kind."

I said, "would you like something to eat?"

Ranger, "well now that you mention it, I am a bit hungry."

I said follow me and we went to the mess hall.  On the way, I asked him if he knew anyone that may have a copying device.  He asked me what I wanted to copy.

I said, "paper with words on it.  Right now we are copying by hand with quill and ink, but this is very slow."

Ranger, "I understand what you need but most of the races I know just use a view screen."

I said, "yes it is a problem.  If I can't find one I will need to find someone to make one for me.  Do you know of any talented engineers, looking for part-time work, willing to go to "Lo re et?"

Ranger, "I can look around and let you know."

When we got to the mess hall I showed Ranger a selection and told him not to worry about the picking out something he may not like as we can just recycle it.  He asked if the food was made from living things.  I told him no, that this was just your standard replicator.

Ranger, "well in that case I'll try the fish sandwich, it looks good.  I would just never hurt one myself without great need."

I said, "I hope you don't mind others that killed to eat."

Ranger, "not at all, it’s just a personal thing to try to do no harm."

I said, "good, because I have a cargo container of fish for the dock workers at each station."

Ranger, "I'm sure they will be grateful."

I chose a sweet nut pie to eat, and we both sat down to enjoy our food.  I had the replicator make me a large bowl of nuts to snack on, then we went back to the bridge, and I asked the Ranger if he knew where I could find someone selling land to air speeders.

Ranger, "not on the station, but there are a number of planets out there that have things like that for sale, you're in the market for one are you?"

I said, "yes.  I park this big ship a long ways from my home and I'm looking for personal transport, something not too big."

Ranger, "well I’ll certainly keep my eyes open for one."

I popped a few nuts in my mouth and said, "thank you, I don't think I'll be doing any of world shopping myself for a long time."

Ranger, "yes, sometimes while given others their freedom we need to give up some of our own.  It's a burden I understand well."

I said, "and how is it that the CM has a problem with you?  What have you been doing that they don't like?"

Ranger, "there was a sick dockworker that needed off station medical care.  They would not let him go until I pressed the issue with a medical ship that took him to a planet for treatment.  As soon as he could walk again he went AWOL, and no one is saying where he is.  That was a week ago and the CM spread the word I was no longer allowed to use the Star gate."

I said, "well it's a good thing it was me that picked you up.  So how long will it take to get to the station?"

Ranger, "not long in this ship, we should get there soon."

I said, "is there anything you can tell me about the man I will be meeting?"

Ranger, "he has been movement crystals long before the CM bought up all the mines in the area, and started trying to control or stop traders like him from selling shipments that were not mined by the CM."

I said, "the only one’s strong enough to stand up to the corporate mining company is the Mining Guild.  The CM may own the mines, ships and the gates, but the Guild takes care of the miners.  The only problem is that they wash each other's hands because they need one another.  The Guild will stand up for the rights of their members but that is as far as they will go.  They are not interested in forming an alliance with the dock workers, and all efforts to start a dock workers union have been crushed at the first whisper of such a thing."

Ranger, "yes, well there are a great many things wrong with this galaxy, and if there were not then who would know the difference?  There is no good without evil, no right without wrong, no light without darkness and life is not precious without death."

I said, "and we do not win every just cause, but we have the right to choose the way we live.  When that right is taken away from us something must be done.  The cry, "live free or die," has been heard throughout the universe.  Its voice cannot be silenced and it’s battle cry shall not be ignored.  Until their last dying breath men will say, "give me freedom or give me death!"

I then took a sip of my drink and a puff on my pipe before saying, in a low voice, "I am not a great warrior, I am not some great leader of men just waiting to be heard.  However, I have maybe one chance to do something good before I slip into a life without risk.  Before home and family are all that is on my mind."

I took another sip of my drink and went silent as I looked out the windows into hyperspace.

Then a great black image passed by the front of the ship.

And I said, "Ranger, do you see what I see?"

And the large black ship went past us again like a shimmer in the dark.

Ranger, "indeed, I do see something."

Then we were out of hyperspace and coming up on the station.

I said, "it didn’t come out with us."

Ranger, "no it didn't, and I'm not sure but I think I'm relieved."

I said, "that's the third time during this trip I have seen it."

Ranger, "I think we've both may be lucky to be alive, let's not talk about it."

As I was pulling up to the station I didn't see a place I could dock such a large ship.  Then the Ranger pulled out a hand-held transmitter and said something.  A moment later the ship on the end moved out, and the Ranger pointed and said, "there, dock there."

So I pulled in and locked to the dock.

Ranger, "we need to get our business over with before you start freeing dockworkers.  Save the gift of fish until just before you leave, it will be a good distraction.  I will talk to the workers and send the ones that are ready to leave to your ship."

I said, "I have water to sell to the station, 2500 units at 200 per."

Ranger, "that's a good price and I'm sure they can use it all.  I'll make the deal for you well you are with my man, but you must come with me now."

I said, "okay, but I'm giving this fruit to the workers know."  He nodded approvingly.

We went to my docking hatch, but the seal was not secure.  The Ranger got on his communicator to dock control and they sent a worker, in a pressures suit, to fix the problem right away.  As soon as the pressure stabilized I was able to open the hatch.

The worker took off his helmet and said, "sorry about that, they stick a little bit from time to time."

I said, "thank you," and gave him a piece of fruit.

He was very happy and said, "thank you very much sir.  If there is anything I can do for you while you are here just let me know."

So I put the bag down and said, "fine, pass theses out to all the dockworkers and no hoarding."

The man said, "sure thing, it would be my pleasure sir."

Then the Ranger and I headed toward the docks.

I said to the Ranger, "do you think he would do it?"

Ranger, "they are a tight group of workers here, I'm sure he will pass them out."

I said, "here is one for you and another for the man you are going to introduce me to.  Hand it to him when we meet so I know I am talking to the right person."

Ranger, "of course I will, and thank you."

He led me to a small diner and we stopped just outside the door as he said, "the man I'm going to introduce you to is inside, don't trust anyone else."  This he said as he held the piece of fruit in one hand.

We walked through the door and a few steps later a large reptile like fellow walked in between us and said to me, "anything that is sold on this station goes through me, understand?"

The Ranger just shook his head no and took a few more steps toward the back of the diner.

So I said, "well in that case I need to tell you I smelled a fart in the hallway.  I think someone is trying to pass gas without you knowing about it.  Maybe you should go check it out."

The thing went out to look and I followed the Ranger to the back of the diner as he turned and said, "pass gas, that’s a good one.  And it’s well that he did not totally understand each word you said."

We walked up to the last table and the Ranger, giving the fruit to the man sitting there, said, "this is the man that can help us."

The man motioned for us to sit down as he said, "I'm Kilroy, what did you tell that thing?"

The Ranger said, "he told him to go look for a fart."

Kilroy, "yeah well, he is dumb enough to be doing just that."

I said, "I think I met a relative of his, on a station in the end of the next quadrant.  Someone stepped on his head and it was full of purple goo.  Then his mate showed up and pulled a weapon on me.  She was full of purple goo to."

Kilroy, "yeah well, try not to kill anyone while you're here.  They tend to start asking questions."

I said, "I'll keep that in mind."

Kilroy, "now, what do you have for me?"

I said, "I have six cargo containers of crystals at 2 mil a piece."

Ranger, "he will pay 3 mil a piece."

Kilroy, "three! What makes you think I'll pay three?"

Ranger, "because I have need of the extra credits."

Kilroy, "we'll all have need of extra credits."

Ranger, "don't worry, I don't need it in credits, I just need a favor."

Kilroy, "what kind of a favor?"

Ranger, "when he leaves he will be hot, heavy a few dockworkers, where are the CM ships?"

Kilroy, "there is one at the next mine, not far from here, and another due at station one in the morning, our time."

The Ranger said to me, "that's about when you get there."

Then he turned to Kilroy and said, "he wants to pick up all the dockworkers that want to leave, on all three stations.  I can knock out the long range transmitter here, but unless I stay they will have it up before he gets to station two.  There is nothing we can do about the transmissions from station two without help."

Kilroy, "for a price I can get a ship to block transmissions for a day, maybe less, it depends on what shows up."

Ranger, "that gets him in and out fast at number two, what about the first station?"

Kilroy, "I can't do anything about the ship there."

I said, "Will there be only one?"

Kilroy, "yes, we can draw him off for a short time so you can get the dock rats.  But they will be after you right after you use the gate, if you can use the gate."

Ranger, "don't worry about the gate, that's not a problem for him."

I said, "I think I can stop the ship while we are still in hyperspace.  At least long enough for me to get out the next gate, then it's a little open space to Lor re et.  Once there I don't think they can touch me."

Ranger, "well now, it sounds like a plan."

Kilroy, "your forgetting what all this is going to cost."

Ranger, "that's what the extra mil per is for.  Other than that it will be 12 mil upfront for the crystals.  Plus I believe there’s some water to sell."

I said, "yes, but I will not be able to stop long enough at each station to sell it."

Ranger, "no problem, Kilroy will buy it and resell the water to the stations for you."

Kilroy, "I will?"

Ranger, "you will.  That's another 1.5 mil for the water, 13 five in all."

Kilroy, "yeah sure, like I got those kind of credits.  Is there anything else you would like me to do that is out of the question?"

I said, "the fish."

Ranger, "the fish, you will take two containers of fish to the starving RATS on the other two stations.  And I imagine that will need to be done right away, as there probably is not much air in those containers."

Kilroy, "would you like me to give you a back rub while I'm doing all this?"

Ranger, "now that you mention it my shoulders have been feeling a bit tight."

Kilroy, "I need to make some inquiries to see how much of this is even possible."

I said, "do you smoke?"

Kilroy, "from time to time, why?"

I handed him a 4 inch bud and said, "put this in your pipe and smoke it."

Kilroy put it to his nose and smelled it, then said, "that's the good stuff, thank you."

I said, "my pleasure."

Ranger, "we will be on the ship, just call me."

Kilroy left, then the Ranger and I went back to my ship.

I thought to myself that it was too bad I didn't get to look over the shops on the station.  I knew there would be no chance to shop at the other stations.

When we got to the ship the Ranger told a dock worker to unload 2500 units of water into the station to tank and another 5000 into the ship next to us.

We then went on board and I said, "I better lock down the tops to the cargo containers with the fish in them."

After doing that we went to the bridge.  By the time we got there, Ranger got a call telling him the ship next to us was ready to take on the crystals.  The Ranger assured me I would get my payment.  So I went to the computer, and input the command for auto unlock on the cargo storage doors.  The containers were moved and empty ones were put back in place.  While this was going on they also moved the containers on the other side with the fish.

I started to feel like this might all be a setup.  They get what they want then turn me in to the CM.  But I was putting my trust in the Ranger.  I had never heard of one going bad, and hoped that still held true.

I sat there at my table, staring at the monitors and smoking my pipe, while wondering if I had just been subjected to the biggest con of my life.  Or was I starting something that would change my life.  Either way it didn't feel right.

Then the Ranger got a communication that there was something at the docking hatch for me.  He said he would go get it.

I sat there wondering if this was how he would make his move.  Would he leave the ship now or let station guards onboard?  A number of things ran through my mind, about how I would get my revenge if they were messing with me.  They don't know how much power I really have, I thought to myself.

But the Ranger did come back, and with a large crystal credit ball that read 13.5 million.  I was relieved, but I tried not to show it.  I now knew that all that was said was true.  As well as all that was going to happen.  I was about to start a rebellion, or perhaps a small war.  I took a deep breath and said, "and so it begins."

Ranger, "have you thought where you will put the dockworkers, for the trip."

I said, "the mess hall, it's big and they can have anything they want to eat or drink."

Ranger, "and when you get to your planet?"

I said, "I thought they could use a few days to rest up before looking for jobs.  They can be my guest for a short time.  And if any of them want to return to their own planets or someplace else, I will arrange a ride for them."

Ranger, "yes, they could use a little time in a grassy meadow under a warm sun."

He then received another communication and said to me, "it has begun.  I need to cut the long range communication for the station, and send all the workers that will go with you.  When you see my face again wave goodbye, close the hatch and leave."

I said, "good luck, and thank you for your help."

Ranger, "and good luck to you my new friend."

He left at a quick pace.  I was not far behind him as he headed for the hatch and left without turning around.  It was only later that I heard what he did and how.

He went to the communications room and pulled the chips to the long-range circuits.  Then he went to the dock storage bay, gathering workers as he went, saying, "free water, free water, follow me and get your free water."

When they got to the bay he said, "the freedom ship is here.  You have tasted it’s fruit now taste its water."

And he took the top off the large cargo container of fish and water.  There were over 20 workers standing or leaning over the sides of the container.  They started drinking and splashing the water.  One man even fell in the container with the fish.  Others help him out quickly, for fear the fish may want to eat him; they were not that kind of fish.

"Quiet, quiet," said the Ranger, "the freedom ship has shown you its water, now let it show you freedom on a world where water is free and there is no CM to stop you.  This water is for those that will not take a chance and come with us to freedom.  The fish is for those that will not go to catch their own.  As for the rest of you, follow me to the freedom ship!"

There was a great cheer as he led them to my ship.  I had been nervously waiting at the hatch to my ship, wondering how long it would take him, when I heard the cheer.  Then I saw a group of workers heading for my ship, led by the Ranger.  He stood at the end of the dock as each man passed him to get on the ship.  As the last worker was aboard he raised his hand to say goodbye.  I returned the wave and closed the hatch.  After locking it I blew the connection to the dock and told the man to follow me to the mess hall.  After quickly telling them they could have whatever they wanted from the replicator I went to the bridge.

I disengaged the docking clamps and backed us out.  Turning toward the Star gate, I moved over to it slowly.  Taking a large gulp of spice dew I pushed my mind to the bottom of the gate and turned it on.  I was then pulled back to my body as the ship was pulled through the gate.  Safe in hyperspace and on course, I went down to the mess hall to talk to the men.

I tried to think of what I would tell the men, but it seemed before much of a thought came into my head I was there.

A man stood at the hatch to the mess hall and said, "there are 17 of us Captain."

This was more than I thought would come, ran through my head, as I looked at the thin ragged men that have gone silent waiting to hear my words.

I said, "you are on the freedom ship.  Starvation and thirst is behind you.  In less than a day we will be on a green world with lakes of water for you to swim in, and the CM has no say there.  More of you will join us from station two.  Don't worry about the CM ships, we have arranged for them to be somewhere else and deaf to the stations.  Feel free to eat or drink whatever you like.  For your own safety, please stay in this room.  I will return to talk to you before we reach Station two."

I turned to leave as many said thank you and bless you.

The one that had been standing at the door said, "Captain, may I be your liaison between the men and yourself sir?"

I said, "well, you'll need to know how to find me, this way to the bridge."

As we walked, I ask his name and he said, "they call me Gripper sir."

I said, "well Gripper, how long have you been stuck on the docks?"

Gripper, "only three months sir."

I said, "well that explains why you are in better shape than the rest of them."

Gripper, "are all the stations as bad sir?"

I said, "I'm afraid so, at least the ones run by the CM."

Gripper, "I don't understand sir.  They pay the mine workers well enough, why treat the dock workers the way they do, sir?"

I said, "the mine workers have the Guild to stand up for them, the dock workers have nobody."

Gripper, "but it would not cost them much to see to it that the dock workers get enough water."

I said, "that’s true, but you are not men to them.  You are an allotment of water and water is credits.  That is why they use the CMA’s, because they are so hated.  They don't dare send the men that do this to you, they send their androids instead.  Some even believe there is no top man, just another android."

Gripper, "I can see why some may believe that sir.  It's hard to believe that a man would cause so much suffering for so little profit.  Plus water shortages cause the black market.  This must cut into their profits as well.  And trying to stop the market cost them even more credits.  Not to mention the loss of productivity by men that can’t think of anything else other than their thirst."

I said, "that's all true.  Well here's the bridge, have a seat."

Gripper, "thank you sir.  This is not like any bridge I have ever been on.  It's more like an observation lounge sir."

I said, "you're right, that's why I like it so well myself.  And it can be run by one man and the computers."

Gripper, "it must have taken a lot to automate a ship this size."

I said, "it took the owner a good 20 years for some of the parts."

Gripper, "this is not your ship Sir?"

I said, "not yet, I'm still -- let's say making payments on it.  I have a large favor to do before I can call it my own.  You worked on ships before have you?"

Gripper, "oh yes.  I was the first mate on the cruiser Decon.  After its last trip to the sector, I decided I wanted to live off ship for a while.  The contract for dock workers seem to be a fair one.  No one warned me they would not live up to it, or that no one would help me get off the station.  When I was young things were not like that, and our ship had been in another sector of space most of my life.  We have had very little news about what has been going on around here.  I guess I picked a bad time to leave the ship, or at least a bad place."

I said, "yes, that's how they get their workers."

Gripper, "well I’m very glad you came along, some of the workers have been there for years sir."

I said, "yes, well I feel bad for the ones that did not come.  It's only going to get harder for them until they can get a new crew.  I can only hope I will be able to go back to free them next month."

Gripper, "you're planning on going back sir?"

I said, "if I can come up with a different ship and a new plan.  I'll keep on going back until they have an open port and workers have it so good they don't want to leave."

Gripper, "well sir, if you need a crew on your next ship please consider me available."

I said, "you know the danger?"

Gripper, "I understand we may not make it through this day sir."

I said, "I was hoping to find men like you among the workers, that would help with the movement to free other workers, have a drink."

Gripper, "oh no sir, I'm much too dehydrated to drink anything but water today sir.  But your pipe smells rather good."

So I let him have a few tolks then he went to get something to eat.

I knew it would not be long before we got to station two and I hoped the jammers were in place.  I put some fire powder in my rum, and a splash of juice, and drank it down.

I wondered if I would see the black ship again.  It seemed to only show up near star gates.  I would like to go overboard again but I knew the gray would not like it, and I had to respect that.  How did he know I was there?  He must be a natural telepath, which meant he knew a lot more about me than I did him.

I started thinking about what I would do when I got to the next station.  We needed to make it up fast stop.  What would I tell the workers to get them to come?  Maybe I should ask the ones onboard what the Ranger said to them.  And then there was the question, in the not so back of my mind, about leaving my ship with a bunch of desperate strangers on board.  That just didn't feel right, I had a hard enough time trusting the Ranger.

Time went by, as it does when you're talking to yourself, and Mr. Gripper came back.

He said, "Captain Sir, I would like to report that there are five of us willing to go ashore, at station two, in order to tell the workers that the freedom ship stands ready to take them away sir."

I said, "well now that will certainly be helpful Mr. Gripper."

Then it caught my eye, the black ship, just a glimpse of it.

I said, "look sharp Mr. Gripper, tell me what you see."

A few moments later he said, "I see nothing sir."

I said, "keep looking."  And it passed our bow.

Gripper, "a large black ship that shimmers in the dark as if it was not all their sir."

Then it was gone and I said, "make ready, we will be docking soon."  And we dropped out of hyperspace.

He said, "I'll tell the men sir."

I said, "take this bag of fruit and tell them that this is the taste of freedom."

He said, "yes sir," and took the bag.

As I headed for the station, I could see three ships not in dock just setting off to one side.  I turned on the transceiver to see what I could hear.  There was the normal chatter.  Then as I got close to the dock, the three ships moved to different sides of the station and the jamming began.  I made dock and went down to the port hatch to find it already open, and the workers coming aboard asking if this was the freedom ship.  Others were welcoming them, and showing them to the mess hall.  In a matter of minutes Gripper came running back saying, "that's all that are coming sir."

I said, "secure the hatch, prepare to depart."

Gripper, "aye, aye, sir."

I went to the bridge in a fast pace and got us on our way.  With the help of some spice dew, I worked my magic on the gate and we were gone.

After a short time Gripper came to the bridge and said, "we have another 13, that's 30 in all sir."

I asked him to sit down and told him that was fine work back there.  He said thank you.  Then I asked him why they call him a Gripper.

He said, "well my birth name includes 30 generations of names and it just takes too long for most conversations.  They call me Mr. Gripper because of my grip.  When I first started to work cargo on my home planet, I had an accident that tore off both of my arms.  We have some of the best doctors in the sector and they gave me new arms, bionic ones, and a support frame across my back and chest.  I can rip a hatch off its hinges or snap a cargo lock with one hand.  So they just call me Gripper, sir."

I said, "well remind me never to arm wrestle you.  Tell me, why do you think some of the workers would not come?"

Gripper, "Sir, I think it is because they think we are going to get caught and sent to jail, or spaced to teach the others a lesson."

I said, "so if we make it, next time they may take the chance to be free."

Gripper, "yes sir, that's the way I see it."

The CM will make up stories about our capture or destruction.  We will need to counter their propaganda, with voice notes and transmissions about how we are doing.  Tell them you have been swimming and working on your tan while eating fruit right of the trees.

Gripper, "yes sir, that sounds like a very good idea sir."

I said, "listen Gripper, you're going to have to cut down on the calling me sir all the time."

Gripper, "I'm sorry sir, would you prefer Captain?"

I said, "I am your captain on this trip, but you are not enlisted on this ship.  Try to feel like a passenger."

Gripper, "yes sir, I mean Captain.  But I would feel more at home and relaxed if I was in your service, at least for this trip."

I said, "okay Mr. Gripper.  I hereby give you a field commission of first mate during this trip.  Your pay shall be transportation as well as all you can eat or drink."

Gripper, "aye, aye sir, thank you Captain."

I said, "now for your first duty, see to the comfort of the men.  There are 20 rooms below, with a number of beds in each of them for the ones that need rest.  The one just under us is mine, use any other."

Gripper went to see to the men as I wondered how long the ships behind me could keep up the jamming.  If a ship from station three went to station two they could scare away the jammers and station one would be waiting for us.  We already knew there may be a CM ship there, though there was a plan to draw it away.  But if it knew about the freedom ship, it may not fall for it.  And even if the decoy works, as soon as the workers get on my ship the station will alert the CM and it could be after us.  I would just have to fly in there as if there was nothing to fear, and hope they don't blast us.  Then wait for the decoy to make my move.

I was not sure how far it was between station one and two, as I sleep part of the way, and I wondered if I would see the black ship again.  Maybe it will show up just before the gate.

I tried to think of the fastest way to get in and out the dock.  By the time Gripper came back, I had an idea.

Gripper, "Sir, all the workers have been taken care of, and the same five men stand ready to rush the station and give the call to freedom."

I said, "good, but I will need you on the bridge at the next station.  You are going to fly the ship."

Gripper, "me sir?  I thought you would do that."

I said, "this ship has only one weapon, me.  With my telekinetic abilities, I can be of some help.  However, I can't fly and fight at the same time.  You will also need to pick one man to stand ready at the hatch.  As soon as the last man is a board he must close the hatch, and blow the locking seal.  This will show up on your screen here.  At that time, you must hit the locking clamp release.  Then back us out and take us to the gate.  After the gate opens you take us through, it's all draw and tap, do you understand?"

Gripper, "yes sir, it's a very easy system to use.  I have flown much harder and less responsive ships."

I said, "good, then pick your crew to hit the dock and a man that's going to stand by the hatch, then come back here.  You will have control the moment we come out of Hyperspace and approach the station."

Gripper, "you want me to dock as well sir?"

I said, "you got a problem with that first mate?"

Gripper, "no sir, I’ll tell my men to be ready and be right back sir."

And so Gripper went to brief his men as I sat there half in and out of sleep for a moment.  So I started using the fire powder to become more awake.  I knew it might be just a split second that made the difference between whether or not I could save us.  It was starting to take a toll on my body.  My heart was pumping and my hands were not steady, but we were going into battle and I would be ready.

I took off my cloak and stood in the middle of the room, looking out into hyperspace.

With my Elvin ware of silver and gold from neck to boots, I look like a knight standing there ready for battle.

When Gripper came back, he stood at the door for a moment and said, "Sir?"  As if he was not sure who he was addressing.

I looked over my shoulder and said, "take the controls Mr. Gripper."

Gripper, "yes sir."

I said, "I may not speak to you again until we are away from the station and back through the gate again.  Do you understand?"

Gripper, "yes sir.  The men stand ready as do I."

I said, "very good, steady as she goes and forward to freedom."

I took a sip of the spice dew just to get my senses ready, then another.  My third drink would give me an extended time and reach.  I had not seen the black ship but I felt we were getting close to the gate.  Then we were there, the ship came through the gate, and I could see the station.

I said, "dock us on the far right side Mr. Gripper, you have the com."

He said, "aye, aye, sir."  As I took another drink of spice dew.

There were five ships at the dock, plus a CM enforcer class control ship on the far left side with an extended dock to it.

All five of the small ships left dock just as we pulled in.  Then one fired at the extended dock to the CM ship.  It all came loose with a flash of light.  Another ship fired at the big ships communications array and flew off as one more ship fired at the station’s antenna.  Both then join the other ships that were moving off.

The big ship slowly moved out and after them.

By this time we were dock and men were running to get on board.  I took another drink and sent my mind after the big ship.  I went on her bridge and destroyed the computer chips to its navigation and weapons control.  When I was pulled back I saw we were leaving the dock.  As we headed toward the gate the other ships were firing upon the enforcer ship over and over again.  Then it blew apart from the back end and again in the middle.  I took a drink of the spice and opened the gate, our ship went through.

In my mind I stood there at the gate, and watched as the other ships keep firing at the parts of the CM ship, as if it was just too much fun to stop.  Then my mind started racing across hyperspace to catch up with my body, what a rush.

I turned around and said, "report."

Gripper, "steady on course, next beacon locked on, no one in pursuit.  Should I see to the men and sir?"

I said, "please do Mr. Gripper."

Then the black ship was back, darting back and forth in front of us, but just far enough away that I could not get a good look at her.  Soon it was gone again.  Was he trying to say good work or was it like a fish that plays with a ship just because it is in its waters?

Anyway I felt we were safe for the time being.  The only ship that may be after us would have to come from station three.  I just hoped it was far enough behind us that I could get us home safely, without any more fighting.  “It's not over yet,” I told myself as I sat down for a smoke and a drink, then went right for the rum.

I was feeling so very tired I just wanted to go to sleep until we got home.  But I knew I had to hang on until we got there.  I had to be sure there was no other ships out there after us.  You could never be sure in hyperspace, because you could not see another ship until they were

right on top of you.  It's an easy place to lose things in, including yourself, if you don't keep a lock on a start gate beacon.

I rested my eyes, knowing Gripper would be back in a little while.  I must've nodded off, I'm not sure how long.  But next thing I knew Gripper was saying, "the black ship is back sir."

I open my eyes trying to see.  Gripper was next to me at the controls.

"The black ship is back sir," he said, "are we near the gate?"

I said, "I don't know."  As I tried to focus my eyes on the ship ahead of us.  I had no fear of it anymore, but I wished I knew more.  I figured the ship would be gone in a few moments and we would be out the last gate.

I asked, "how many from the last station?"

Gripper, "20 sir, that makes 50 in all."

I said, "50, that’s a lot of men to relocate."

Gripper, "they are all very glad to be here sir."

“Gray play”

Then a large ship passed right over us, it was a CM enforcer, and dropped right down in front of us.  I only had one good drink of spice dew left, I hoped it would be enough.  But then the black ship side bumped the enforcer, knocking it out of our way.  The black ship then went after it again, knocking it farther off course.

My ship went through the gate and dropped out of hyperspace.  I was not quite sure what just happened.  We were alone and I set course for our new home at best speed.

I walked around the bridge a bit, expecting the CM ship to show up at any moment, then I finally sat down.

Gripper said, "do you think the enforcer will be back sir?"

I said, "I don't know, I hope not."

Each moment that went by seemed to take longer than it should, as we got closer to the planet.  When the planet was in view I showed Mr. Gripper the home button to push when we got there.

Then the black ship came out of nowhere, and was on our side keeping pace.  A holographic transmission was then sent to our bridge.  It was the gray I had seen before.

He said, "ship with robot men fun to play with but it broke.  Me fix and give back?"

I said, "no fix, bad ship.  Bad men make us slaves."

The Gray said, "slaves no good, you break bad ships."

I said, "our ship no weapons, your ship better."

He said, "yes, my ship better to smash bad robot ships.  I have another, I sell her to you?"

I said, "yes, I would like to buy one of your ships, how much?"

He said, "your planet, many crystals, trade weight of ship in crystals."

I said, "that's a lot of crystals."

He said, "ship no much weight.  I come with you, show how much."

I said, "yes, you come with us down to the planet."

We then turned the home course program on as his transmission ended.  I could see his ship match every move ours did as we went down to the spot we took off from.  I told Mr. Gripper to keep the men inside until I had dealt with our gray friend.

Day 10

“Trade for a liven ship”

I then went outside to meet with him face to face.  As I open the hatch, I could see the gray standing next to his ship looking around.

I walked up and said, "thank you again for playing with other ship. "

He said, telepathically to me, "robot men fun to play with."

I said, "I can hear you without my translator."

He said, "and I you before you speak, you trade crystals?"

I said, "how much?"

He said, "what this ship can eat."

Glancing over at his ship I noticed that it was not as big as I first thought it was and said, "that's about six cargo containers full?"

He said, "yes, this much for sister ship.  I call her now."

He looked at his ship, and it sort of made a quiver, then another ship came out of nowhere and sat next to it.  She was the same size, maybe a bit bigger.  And though it had no real shape except maybe oblong it seemed very beautiful, shimmering black against the sand.

He said, "you like?"

I said, "yes I like."

He said, "go to her, see how she like you."

I walked over and ran my hand along her side, it was like powder on skin.  Then the side opened just in front of me.

The Gray said, "that means she will stay for you."

I said, "thank you."

He said, "May my ship eat your crystals now?"

I said yes, and his ship went over to the side of the mountain where I had been digging and started to eat the crystals.  When he said eat, I thought he meant load up.  But the ship was truly eating.  It was taking big bites faster than a loader could dig them out.

The Gray said, "ship happy, no eat crystals in long time."

Before I knew it the ship was done, and the hole was no bigger than if I had pulled out six containers worth.

The Gray said, "thank you, have fun playing with robot ships."

Then he got in his ship and left.  It had all happened so fast, that if it was not for the fact that the sister ship was still there, I would of thought it a dream.  But there she was, maybe 50 feet long and 30 feet high and wide.  Just waiting to take me anywhere I wanted to go.

I went back to the men and told them where we were.  I said that after we had secured the big ship we would go to the other side of the mountain.  With their help, it did not take long to pull the chips and put them in the safe.  We then gather what we were taking with us and got aboard my new ship.

For some reason, it seemed bigger inside than it did outside.  Maybe it was because there was no inner walls, no crew quarters or engineering room.  It was just a large black room.

Before the hatch closed I walked to the front of the ship, I think, and it opened a portal so I could see out.  Then without me saying a word we flew over the mountain in a flash, and were at the green meadow by the lake.

It landed by my old ship and we all got out.  A number of men ran to the water, the rest of us followed slowly.  I watched as the men played in the water, then I walked over to a fruit tree nearby and started to toss some to a few of them.

Sitting down I ate some fruit myself, as Gripper sat with me and said, "so what do we do next sir?"

I said, "well I fingered the men could use a few days to rest up, and get some of their health back.  Then we can start to take them to the city so they can find jobs or transportation someplace else."

By the look of the sun, I could tell it was afternoon.  I asked Gripper if any of the men were in need of a doctor.

He said, "I don't think so, but I will look them over and ask around."

Despite my exhaustion I went with him.  I told them it was free and he was nearby.  However, none of them wanted to go.  Although by the looks of a view of them they could use some vitamin shots.  I told them to rest up, that there was going to be a party for them tonight.  Then I told Gripper to watch over them, that I was going to make preparations for their stay and I would be back soon.

I then dragged myself home to see if Owsee was there.  But no one was home or in the barn, and the transport was gone.  So I walked over to the doctors and told him about the men.  I said none of them felt they needed to see him, but I would appreciate it if he could spare the time to look them over.  He grabbed his bag to go see the men while I went into town.

I stopped off to see Kitty to let her know I was all right and would be taking care of the men for a few days.  She said she understood and would be home at dark.  I then went over to the bank and put the 13.5 million in my account, they were very pleased to see me.  After that I headed to the store and bought as much bread and cheese as I could carry and took it to the man.

They may have eaten on the ship but I was sure that could not have been much.  The doctor was still looking them over when I got there.  He said there were signs of dehydration and borderline malnutrition, but nothing lots of rest and good food could not cure.  He gave some of them vitamins to take, and told them not to drink too much water at first.  I thanked him and went up to the cave to see Goo da wa.  I told him about the men and that I wanted to give them a freedom party.  I handed him a chip with a thousand credits on it to get things started.  He said that should take care of it quite nicely, and that he would start on the preparations.  He also said I looked as tired as a man that just got back from battle, and asked if he could get me anything.  I said, “time to sleep, but that will have to wait just a little bit longer.”

I went back to the house to get a casting net, then returned to the men and showed some of them how to use it.  I sent a few of others to fetch some wood for a fire, though I knew they needed rest, they also needed to feel like they were doing something.

The men with the casting net were not having much luck.  So I spread a telekinetic net to bring the fish closer to the shore for them to get.  I told them to throw the small ones back as there were plenty more.

Before long we had a proper fish fry going and a number of men said, "now this is the life."

They asked what was next for them.  I said that in a few days I would take them to the city so they could look for work, or transportation to wherever they wanted to go.  But for right now, we were hiding from the CM.

I asked how many of them had a pipe, a few put up their hands.  I opened my sack of dry buds and started handing them out.  Before long, we were making as much smoke as the fire.  Most of us were laid back on the grass, and some of us were all altogether out.  I think I took a short nap myself.

As it started to get dark I looked toward the cave and could see Goo da wa had lit the outside torches.  So I told the men it was time to go to their party.  Most of them got right up, but some said they were too tired to party and to just leave them there.  I told the ones that were up to please help the others.  That there were chairs and comfortable cushions at the bar, as well as food and ale.

I said, "see that torch men.  That is where we are going."

I told Mr. Gripper to follow up the rear to see that no one was left behind.  I took the lead to the cave and stood at the entrance ushering the men inside.

Goo da wa had two other men helping to bring mugs and pictures of ale to tables.  The fire in the center of the room was lit and the band soon began to play.  There was fruit and nuts on every table including the bar, and they began to barbecue beef and bird.

But all the men had small stomachs from such a long time of not having much.  And they were already full on water and fish, so they did not drink fast and only nibbled on what was given to them.  A lot of them put food in their pockets for later.

Kitty soon showed up and found me sitting in my booth at the end of the bar.  She asked if I was going to stay here tonight.  I said no, that I needed my bed, and soon.

As she looked around the room she said, "these men can't go into the city with the rags they are wearing.  Can I get them new clothes?"

I said, "yes, that sounds like a good idea.  They will have a better chance to getting jobs or transportation if they don't show up the way they are.  Plus it will help hide the fact that they just escaped from the CM."

Kitty said, "I need to make a call to my distributor."  And she looked over the men carefully to decide what sizes to order.  She could tell which just a glance, and keep a list in her head.

Then saying, "I'll see you at the house," she left.

Before long, I did the same, leaving Mr. Gripper in charge with instructions there was to be no fighting among the men and that I would see him in the morning.

After going home I took my boots off and went right to bed.  With what seemed to be a blink it was morning, I rolled over and slept another hour.

Day 11

It was full sunup when I got out of bed and Kitty was already gone.  I had some juice then headed for the cave.  I saw that the transport was back but I didn't look for Owsee.  I figured Goo da wa would be needing his rest, so I would take the men to the lake.

As I got close I could see him sitting on a rock by the entrance of the cave.  He seemed to be in full meditation.  But as I walked up the path to him he said, without opening his eyes, "good morning teacher, captain of the freedom ship."

Then he opened his eyes, turned his head toward me and asked if I slept well.

I said, "yes, and I imagine you need some rest by now yourself."

He said, "no not really.  Your guests all went to sleep hours ago.  I have been enjoying the sun rise and I am now good for days.  Please let the men stayed for another day or two, there is still much to eat and drink."

I said, "okay, it’s your place.  Have you seen Owsee?"

He said, "yes, he was here last night and spent some time on the transceiver before going home."

I said, "I have not seen him since I got back, he must be up to something."

Goo da wa, "Talking about up to something, I see you have a new ship.  The men say you got it from a gray."

I said, "yes, in exchange for some crystals.  It's the kind of ship I will need if I am going to free anymore dock rats."

Goo da wa, "I saw it playing in the lake just before sunrise."

I said, "it was moving around without me ah, I'll need to have a talk with my ship."

Goo da wa, "just remember it's alive, you cannot treat it like a thing."

I said, "yes, but it must understand how I feel about anyone seeing it move around without me."

He said, "I think it does, that's why it chose just before dawn to go swimming.  Remembered that it is still a bit like a child, and still learning from you.  It will feel what you feel, not just know what you know."

I said, "what do you mean know what I know?"

He said, "a living ship like that forms a telepathic link to its owner, it will hear your thoughts."

I said, "that interesting and maybe a bit disturbing, I don't need another conscious.  I guess I'll need to be careful, owning a living ship will have some responsibilities."

Goo da wa, "and a great deal of rewards.  The Grays don't give them away lightly, to them you are now part of the family."

I said, "what does that mean?"

Goo da wa, "only time will tell."

I said, "well I guess I should go to my ship and let it know it has not been abandoned."

Goo da wa, "I'm sure it knows, but call it.  It will come, just think of it being here.  There is no one else around to see."

So I thought of it coming from the lake to hear and it came.  Appearing near us and opening it’s side for me to come aboard.  I stepped in and we flew to the hidden lake that was in the mountains.  There we played on and in the water, as I explained this was a place where she could come to play so others would not see.

Then we headed back and I went to the house.  The transport was not there and neither was Owsee.  So I went to town to see if Kitty knew where he was.

Approaching the main street, I could see the transport in front of Kitty's shop.  Kitty and Owsee were loading boxes on it.  When Owsee saw me walking up he set a box down, turn with open arms and said, "Captain of the freedom ship, welcome back my friend."

He wrapped his arms around me, and patting me on the back said, "I did not want to wake you.  Look what we have done, new clothes for all the men, Kitty has done this.  She told her suppliers that if they could not get it here by morning she would find someone that could.  That's one tough negotiator you have there."

I said, "where have you been all this time?  I thought I would see you when I landed."

Owsee, "I thought you would land at the city spaceport to drop off your passengers before coming home.  I was making deals with the dock master, for some of his men to take their vacation time now, so the workers could get a start that would lead to something for them.  When you did not show up, I called Goo da wa who told me you were here.  So I came home to find you already asleep."

I said, "the men were in no shape to just drop them off in the city.  Besides, you know I would not even be able to find the port without first using the auto home program.  And then there was the fact that we destroyed two enforcer class ships on our way here, so it was best for no one to know of our arrival."

Owsee, "you destroyed two ships?"

I said, "well, the mercenaries blasted one to bits at Station one, and the Gray smashed another with his ship just before we came out of hyperspace.  Then we came down together and I bartered some crystals for his sister ship."

Owsee, "yes, I saw the black ship.  So you got to meet a Gray face to face?"

I said, "yes, he finds its fun to play with robot ships.  I told him they were bad, that he is welcome to smash them, and he told me I needed a ship like his.  With this new ship, I can pop in and out of hyperspace without the gates.  I will be able to fly it into a station and take off workers before they can call for a ship to stop me.  And if one does show up it will just be play time for my ship."

Owsee, "so you can hit another station at any time?"

I said, "yes, and drop men off just about anywhere without it taking hardly any time."

Owsee, "excellent, but right now it is all about the men.  We need to get them in shape to take care of themselves.  Are they still at the cave?"

I said, "yes, I believe so, at least they were when I left there."

Kitty said she knew just which box was for each man, so she went with us to hand them out.

At the cave Owsee, Goo da wa and myself helped unload the boxes as kitty handed them out to the men.  Each box had a new shirt and pants in it, as well as boots and socks, they all fit.  We had a victory fire for the old clothes, and Owsee told the men there was at least two weeks work for them at the city port.  As well as a ships that would take them wherever they wanted to go, but that they should rest for at least another day.

Kitty went back to her shop.  Owsee and I stayed and talked about the trip.  I tried not to leave anything out.  Owsee was glad I got so much help in getting the men off the station.  And said that it showed how much others believed in what we were doing.  I told him I did not think I would have been able to do any of it without the help of the Ranger.  He agreed he was a good man to know, and it was lucky I met the Gray.

I said, "yes it was, and this is going to make a big difference in the way we deal with the robot ships, we no longer need to fear them."

Owsee, "yes, they will have to start treating the dockworkers better, now that they have a way off the stations."

I ate some nuts and had a beer for breakfast.  Then I started to write the story I had promised Goo da wa, but didn’t get much past the first page, my heart was just not in it.  I gave him the page and said I would have more later.

Then I said to Owsee, "I want to free the workers on the three stations in the other direction next.  But we have enough refugees here for now, and they can't be left on a planet where the CM has a hold."

Owsee, "I think we can handle them as soon as I get this bunch taken care of with new jobs or transportation.  After that the ones we pick up may not be so bad off, if we can hit the stations at least once a month."

I said, "we also need to make water runs so the CM will not be able to hold the stations hostage for a drink.  My new black ship can run interference and protection."

Owsee, "that's good because my ship is marked for destruction by the CM, after the way you blew up two of their enforcers.  There was at least 100 CMA’s on each ship, and at 100,000 per CMA plus the cost of the ships, you know have a death mark on you."

I said, "I don't guess they would listen if I explained to them that I did not fire on either of those ships myself."

Owsee, "you took the dockworkers, so they will hold you responsible."

I said, "then I need to give them a reason not to try anything against me."

Owsee, "how can you do that?  I can't think of any way to get at the CEO’s."

I said, "it's true that they used the CMA’s so the CEO’s can be safe.  So I need to get past the CMA’s so I can threaten the men at the top.  If I could find out where they are, I can take the spice dew to get in and walk like a god.  Letting them know I can reach them no matter where they are may be enough to keep them in line."

Owsee, "yes, but how can you do that when no one knows just where they are?  They always talk through their androids."

I said, "that's the question all right, and it's the key to the war."

Owsee, "war?  Are we at war now?"

I said, "I am at least, you said it yourself.  They will put a bounty out for me, I have been marked for death.  And unless I can get them to back off they will come here, sooner or later they will come here."

Owsee, "we will need to be on the lookout for any strangers that start to ask questions.  I'm starting to think Goo da wa was right to give this table a security field."

“A gift”

As if on cue, a tall man dressed all in black walked in the front of the cave.  He pulled back his hood and looked around, then walked over to our table.  It was the Ranger.

I said, "I didn't think I would see you again so soon."

Ranger, "I have something for you outside."

Owsee and I followed him to the mouth of the cave and saw a two passengers speeder.

The Rangers said, "it has high ground clearance and boosters for full flight capabilities.  It can carry two, but hold on tight when it takes off or you'll fall."

I said, "it's just what I was looking for.  How much do you want for it?"

Ranger, "it's a gift from the ships that were at station one."

I said, "you mean the ships that were just to decoyed the CM ship away, not destroy it."

Ranger, "yes, well they do seem to overdo it from time to time.  Talking about overdoing it, can you tell me about the other ship that did not come back?"

I said, "it ran into a Gray in a black ship that thought it was something to play with.  But like all play things, they tend to break.  I suppose the CM will blame me for that one as well."

Ranger, "and I see you now have a black ship of your own."

I said, "you see a lot for someone that just got here, and how is it that you found me with such ease?"

Ranger, "it may have been harder if you had not put the 13.5 million of credits in your account so soon."

I said, "not many new about that amount."

Ranger, "which is probably a good thing for you.  I'm not the only one that has friends that like to hack the World Bank computer."

I said, "yes, you're certainly right about that.  Now if you could only tell me where a CM CEO is you would make my day."

Ranger, "is that all you want to know.  Just follow a damaged ship back to where they repair it, and you will find a CEO at the heart of the operation."

I said, "well now, why didn't I think of that, thank you.  By the way, when do you think your friend could use another shipment of crystals?"

Ranger, "not for a week or two, I'll contact you."

I said, "would you like to help in the freeing of workers from other stations?"

Ranger, "what did you have in mind?"

I said, "I can fly in from out of nowhere, with the black ship, and be on my way again if the workers are ready to get aboard.  I just need someone they trust to get the word to them, that when the black ship comes they must run for it."

Ranger, "yes, I can get the word to them."

I said, "we need to hit the three stations the other way this time.  Do you know another place we can take them?"

Ranger, "yes, I can find places for them after you get past the CM ships."

I said, "well then my plan will be to pick up the men on the farthest station, number W3, then work my way back to W1.  I will then disable any CM ship there and make an in space transfer.  I will then hide and wait to follow the CM ship back to its repair base.  How fast can you get the word out?"

Ranger, "it will take a day or two to pass the word without the stations knowing about it.  I will let you know when the men are ready."

I said, "by the way, what do you think of this one they call Gripper?"

Ranger, "he seems like a nice fellow.  I only met him once before you pulled him off the station.  I was told he worked as a first mate on a ship from Tronex for many years.  The other men like him and he has one hell of a grip."

I said, "that's good to hear, because if he is still willing I will make him first mate of our next trip.  I need someone to fly the cargo ship while I fly the black ship for defense.  Besides, my ship will not be able to hold as many workers as we may pull off of all three stations, without unloading after each stop."

Ranger, "it's a big risk and a lot of responsibility for a first command.  Only time will tell how he will work out."

I asked if he would like a mug of juice, the Rangers said yes please.

Owsee, the Ranger, and I sat and talked for a good while.  Some of the men came by the table to thank the Ranger for his help in their liberation, and to tell him how happy they were to be free of the station and the CM.

We asked the Ranger if he would need a ride back to the city spaceport.

He said, " I had already made arrangements, as a matter of fact I must be leaving shortly."

Then he went over to talk to a few of the men before leaving.  He told us he would be in touch shortly and gave me a two-way communicator.  As soon as he stepped outside a small ship to shore transport landed and took him away.

I said to Owsee, "that Ranger is certainly a good man to know."

Owsee, "yes, he is very helpful as well as resourceful."

“Joy ride”

We both looked at the new speeder the Ranger had brought me.

Owsee said, "I would like to take it out for a spin but you should be first."

I said, "well in that case, let's see what this thing can do."

It had a handlebar grip with straps to put my hands through, and a strap to go around my waist.  After locking my legs in place, I flipped the switch on the grip and is bam -- I was off.  I pulled up fast to keep from hitting anything and almost did a loop before getting it straightened out.  I then zipped and zagged across the sky a bit, before I found the speed adjustment and the hover mode.  I brought it down next to the cave and showed Owsee the controls I had figured out.  We got him strapped in and he took off in the hover mode and slow forward to start.  After getting high enough he hit the boosters and took off over the lake before turning around and bringing it back.

As he landed in front of me and said, "I have got to get one of these for myself."

I said, "well, when I see the Ranger again I'll tell him you want to buy one."

Owsee, "please do.  This could save me so much time in getting around."

I said, "plus it's a lot of fun."

Owsee, "plus it's a lot of fun."

The end?

By R. Miller

words 90, 988

To whom, I.M.C.

I must be a sci-fi fan.  For with all the imagination we have, how many of us have bothered to write down the great adventures we perceive in our minds?  Somewhere around a million words on paper, I began to ask people, that I knew, if they liked what I was writing.  I truly believe, these highly trained professionals, when they told me they were not just shining me on about how great they thought, "The traveler," was.  There is no greater joy than being able to read a well written piece of science fiction, that has all the elements in it; except maybe to write it.  Getting paid for it, is great encouragement as well.  I'm sure a number of people will be able to appreciate the marketability of this fine story.  In a time when finances are tight, for a great number of people, true entertainment for a low price is a blessing.  And a book like, "The traveler," could be of great entertainment for those that are looking for a new hot book.  The author, "Mr. Robin Miller," is an extremely entertaining 53-year-old, that believes sci-fi is really science prediction.  Reading his book may be like a peek into the future, for some.  Unfortunately, this book is hard to put down; and so is the writer.  You'll love to meet with him at a book signing, and say you met the card that wrote such a thrilling and heart-warming adventure.  He’s as entertaining as his books; but takes less time to read.  After more than six years, of working on -- the Chronicles of "The traveler, and the loss colony from Earth," Mr. R. Miller believes great writing is only created through hard work.  To anyone that does not love, the Chronicles of "The traveler, and the loss colony from Earth," I can only say -- that many do, I know what I love -- I wrote it!

Of course, as writer, I'm not sure my work is ever done.  Like with a painting, there just comes a time you need to sign your work and let it go.

Have I mentioned that some of my poetry was published by the international Library of poetry in Maryland?  Being a published poet is not merit enough, of itself, to guarantee a new book sale but it don't hurt.  You will find some of this poetry in my books.

I certainly hope the above words have answered some of your questions about the writer Mr. Robin Miller and his books, the Chronicles of "The traveler, and the loss colony from Earth."

By R Miller 7/17/09