Grey headed back to Nicia's quarters after his impromptu meeting with Sulan.

He didn't think he had talked with Sulan for more than a few minutes, but it seemed to have been long enough for Nicia to leave her quarters unnoticed.

Grey went to a data terminal and checked her schedule. He found that she had no appointments scheduled, but she also didn't register where she was going or for how long. Having nothing better to do, he decided to leave a note telling her she could find him at his place when she was free. He desperately wanted to explain what he had meant by feeling awkward.

He was surprised when she arrived carrying an assortment of what the Trephi considered casual clothing and told him to hurry up and get dressed before they were late for the gathering.

Every chance he tried to explain was silenced by Nicia, who now seemed very cheerful compared to the way she was when he last saw her. All she would tell him was that she understood, Geheran would not be offended and to hurry up.

Grey wasn't thrilled with his choices. He ended up settling on a pair of dark gray pants and dark violet pullover.

"Finally." Nicia said with a smile before looking Grey over and giving an approving nod. "You don't like light colors, do you?" She asked as she held up another pullover.

Grey gave a short laugh.

"Well, white and maybe a gold or yellow, but never that." He said, pointing to the bright orange pullover she was holding. "I'd look awful in that." He smiled.

"I don't think so." She said with an alluring smile and a thoughtful expression as she looked him over once more.

Grey thought she suddenly looked a bit mischievous, as if she was about to make a suggestive comment, but decided not to at the last second.

"Ok. Let's go." Nicia said eagerly, taking Grey by the arm as they headed to the door.

Nicia and Grey arrived at the gathering shortly after it was formally supposed to begin. The gathering was held in a large hall that seemed to be a combination of a garden and an auditorium. Tables were set randomly around the area. Some were grouped together while others offered a little privacy. Yet, all of them could clearly see the slightly raised central area of the garden that seemed to be set up for a ceremony.

They walked through a portion of the garden area where Nicia seated Grey at small table with seven chairs.

"The evening meal should be starting soon." She said as she took a seat next to Grey. "I think you'll enjoy the variety of foods available."

"I think you're right." Grey said smiling. "Some of what I saw being prepared looked exquisite. Though there were a few that looked unappealing."

Nicia was about to make a comment when a black furred Trephyn female approached and sat herself at the table.

The young female silently watched them while Grey and Nicia waited for her to say something.

"You come back to Synac and don't even say hello? Didn't our time together mean anything to you?" She said calmly as she looked Grey straight in the eyes.

Nicia looked at Grey. She couldn't believe Grey would ever do something like that.

"What?" Grey exclaimed in confusion. "I don't think we've ever met."

"Well I suppose I could have mistaken you for another human. There are so many that pass through here." Replied the female in the same calm tone.

Grey smiled as he caught the hint of the Trephyn's ear beginning to twitch.

It was obvious though that Nicia missed that subtle action by the way she was glaring at the dark female as she moved to stand up.

Under the table, Grey placed his hand on top of Nicia's thigh, preventing her from standing.

Nicia gave Grey an odd look as he kept her seated. "What are you.." She started to say before Grey interrupted.

"It's all right." He said reassuringly to Nicia before turning to the female. "Okay, who put you up to this?"

"Damn." Meran said with a wide grin as he came out from behind some shrubbery. "Grey. Nicia. This is my lifemate, Shia." Meran said with pride.

"Oh. That figures." Grey said with a chuckle. "Though, I was betting she was a relative."

"Meran." Nicia growled in frustration. "That wasn't nice."

Shia became nervous by Nicia's reaction. Meran had promised her that the Emissary would not react in such a manner.

"A pleasure to meet you, Shia." Grey said with a friendly smile. "Does he always try to get you into trouble?"

"Usually, but I do my share of getting him into trouble." She replied, slightly relaxed to see that Grey was not offended by Meran's joke.

Grey was thinking how well suited Meran and Shia were for each other when a set of red furred arms wrapped around him from behind.

"Hihi, brother." Dariena said in her normally cheerful tone.

"Hey, sis." Grey said smiling broadly.

"Nicia." Dariena said with a nod and a smile as she took the seat between Grey and Meran.

"Dariena." Nicia responded in a friendly tone.

Grey was glad to see the Nicia wasn't acting jealous this time.

Dariena looked toward Meran. "I remember you. You were with Grey at the training arena in Rel-Cal."

"Sorry." Grey began. "Dariena, this is Meran and his mate Shia. Meran was one of the transport pilots who brought me back this time."

Dariena exchanged friendly nods between Meran and his mate.

Grey was surprised when Geheran showed up and seated himself next to Nicia.

"Emissary." Meran and Dariena said in unison as they greeted Geheran.

Geheran frowned briefly.

"I know its customary to always address the SDF head by his title, but tonight I would prefer to be addressed without title just as everyone else is. We are all here as friends." Geheran said softly.

"So, you're sharing the table as well?" Grey asked. "I thought this was supposed to be a type of reunion for the SDF training class members. There is a bit of mixed classes at this table."

"It is." Geheran said, smiling. "But Nicia thought you'd feel comfortable among friends."

"Besides," Nicia began, "Meran is the only member from my training pack that remained in this province and is here tonight."

"And don't forget, you were in a training pack with me." Dariena chimed in cheerfully.

"I'm here to be with my daughter and you, my friend." Geheran said.

"Well thanks to all of you." Grey said appreciatively. "So, who are we missing?" Grey asked as he looked to the empty chair between Shia and Geheran.

The table grew quiet as everyone looked to the empty setting.

"No one. All the tables seat seven." Geheran said weakly.

Nicia had seen her father go through those mood swings before. She knew he deeply missed her mother. She rested her hand on her fathers, squeezing gently to offer support.

Grey's looked toward Geheran and could see the loneliness in his eyes. He knew Geheran was thinking about Sheral. She should have been seated there with him.

"Don't look at me." Shia said in an attempt to lighten the mood. "I don't know any of you. I'm just here as Meran's comic relief."

Everyone laughed at Shia's comment knowing Meran's sometimes abrasive but good natured sense of humor.

Grey remembered sharing a meal at Sheral and Geheran's table back when he was trying to get over Susan's death. Geheran had made a simple toast, but by it, Grey knew Geheran was offering his support and friendship.

"To our friends." Grey said raising his glass to Geheran. "To those around us now, and to those who will always be with us in spirit."

Geheran's eyes met with Grey's. He recognized those words as the same ones that he once told Grey long ago, while he was dealing with his own loss.

Geheran's mood elevated as he raised his glass in return. "To friends." He said firmly after taking a deep breath.

Everyone at the table joined in the toast and resumed in some small talk afterward.

Geheran and Grey maintained their eye contact through the duration of the toast and for a few seconds after. They both realized they shared one more thing in common. They both had lost a loved one to the same person.

As the evening meal was being served, Geheran went to the platform in the center to perform the only official action at the gathering.

Geheran began calling out names of various Trephi. SDF trainees were awarded their first set of stripes. Others received increases for reaching new training levels or personal achievements.

For the valor she maintained with injuries she sustained on her last mission, Nicia received an increase in her personal achievement ranking. She seemed surprised but was proud to now have a green stripe to replace the yellow stripe on her uniform.

Everything Grey had for his meal was excellent. He even enjoyed some of the more unappealing looking dishes that Nicia convinced him to try.

He even fell prey to one of Shia's jokes as she tricked him into trying something that he found too spicy. He should have realized he was in trouble when everyone got quiet as he was about to take a bite.

As everyone finished their meals, Grey took a moment to look around at the various groups of Trephi.

Some of the older Trephi stood around talking, or remained seated at the tables watching the festivities. Others seemed to mingling, introducing themselves and their family members.

Grey couldn't believe the size of it. He guessed there were probably more than a thousand Trephi gathered in the large garden.

Something that seemed odd to him was that no one seemed to display their rank or status in any way. No posturing like he would expect in a similar social gathering back home. Young, old, male or female, everyone seemed to be treating each other as equals.

"Lets go for a walk." Nicia said, beckoning him with her warm smile.

Grey happily joined her. Walking by her side as they toured the garden.

Grey felt accepted by the warm greetings he received as Nicia introduced him to those Trephi whom she knew personally. He even had the opportunity to introduce her to a few faces he remembered from his last visit. It was unnecessary, but Grey felt it proper to introduce her even though they already knew Nicia by her title of Emissary.

Soft music could be heard coming from somewhere near the central area of the garden. It had an orchestral quality, though it seemed to be composed only of percussion and wind instruments, completely lacking any kind of string instrument.

As they neared its source, Grey stopped and listened to the music for a few moments. It reminded him of a orchestral representation of Native American tribal music.

Nicia smiled as Grey stopped with obvious interest in the ensemble of musicians.

"Grey. Have you listened to any of our forms of music before?" Nicia asked.

"No, not really. I was just thinking how similar it sounds to some styles back home."

"Do you like it?"

"It definitely has a decent beat." Grey smiled. "I've always liked music with good rhythm."

"Good. Dance with me." Nicia said with a smile.

"That's something I've never been good at." Grey tried to explain as Nicia pulled him to the side toward a less crowded area. "But I can see that I have no choice." He added with a grin.

Grey tried his best to keep up with Nicia, but his two left feet prevailed against the constantly varying tempo. He was glad that they were not entirely in the open and could save at the least some dignity.

He marveled at Nicia who had no problems staying in time with the music. She looked lovely and possessed a grace all of her own. He happy to be with her and was enjoying himself even though he was a completely inept dancer.

Nicia gave a soft friendly laugh as she smiled widely.

Grey realized that was the first time he heard her laugh openly. It was a beautiful sound. He began to smile, both at her amusement and the sound of her laughter still fresh in his memory.

"How can you have such a poor sense of coordination?" Nicia teased with a smile as she moved behind him.

"Its a little different than the music I'm used to."

Nicia moved in closer to Grey as the music began a slower steady rhythm.

"It's not too difficult." She said, putting her arms around him. "Like this." She added as she slowly guided him.

Geheran watched Nicia as she danced with Grey. He was pleased to see that his daughter was happy. He was also glad to see Grey enjoying himself.

He could see they got along well together, judging by the way they both seemed to smile as they held each others gaze.

It finally occurred to him why Sheral wanted Grey to meet Nicia. Their personalities complimented each other. Sheral always did have the ability to pair.

Geheran began to smile as he wondered if Grey knew what he was getting himself into.

Grey happened to look over to where Geheran was sitting, briefly making eye contact before looking away. He could tell Geheran was watching him and Nicia together and felt a bit guilty. Most unnerving was the slight smile Geheran had. He looked like he was in a pleasant mood, but Grey had seen him give that same smile to another Trephyn that insulted Sheral once, just before he beat the hell out of the offender. Geheran definitely cared for his family. He could only hope that Geheran truly was not upset.

"Your feeling awkward again, aren't you?" Nicia asked tenderly, sensing his sudden discomfort.

"A little. Your father seems to be keeping his eye on me."

"You're his friend. He doesn't mind. He told me he can accept whatever relationship we have, whether it be friendship or more."

Grey couldn't help wonder what Nicia's definition of 'more' was. However, he thought he might like to find out.

Taking leave of her duties, Nicia spent the next few days with Grey.

They spent the next few days traveling to some of the different provinces of Synac as Nicia showed him what had changed over the past years since his last visit. They would spend their nights talking quietly about their lives. Sometimes they would just share a quiet moment together.

Grey enjoyed their time together and realized that he cared deeply for Nicia. She was so alien, yet so familiar. He could relate to the stories she told about her childhood. Despite growing up worlds apart, he was surprised to learn that they shared so many similar experiences and interests. From the games they played as children to the way they conducted their adult lives, they could have easily grown up on each others worlds without any problems.

He began to wonder what would happen at the meeting tomorrow with Geheran and Sulan. Grey found himself not wanting to return to Earth this time. He had friends on Synac, old and new. He felt he also had a chance at happiness with Nicia. The truth was; he felt more at home on Synac than Earth.

Besides, he was most likely declared dead back on Earth. Though it didn't bother him much about being dead, what bothered him was the thought that he was probably listed as executed for treason. He didn't like the idea of being considered a traitor.

Maybe he would get a chance to clear his name. It wouldn't hurt his feelings any to cause Marx some grief.

Grey entered the room where Geheran and Sulan were waiting. They sat together at a long table that had a soft glow to its surface. In the air above the table floated various glyphs of the Trephi language.

"Grey. Please, have a seat." Geheran said as he looked toward Grey through the projections above the table.

"Thank you for meeting with us." said Sulan.

"So, Geheran, what's the situation? Sulan has mentioned the Alliance council's ban on Earth-bound missions and that it changed its mind about inviting Earth into the alliance."

Geheran turned to glance at Sulan, then back to Grey. "That is correct. The alliance council has declared Earth off limits. This is the first time they have ever done anything like this and we find it very alarming."

"Okay, so what do you think is their motivation for the restriction?" asked Grey, looking in turn to Geheran and Sulan.

Sulan spoke first.

"After losing one Emissary and almost another, they are saying Earth is too dangerous for any further attempts at contact."

Geheran paused for a moment.

"I don't know why they would do this. We have gone to far more dangerous worlds that yours. I fear that, whatever their reasons, it is not in the best interests of your planet." Geheran said with a concerned expression.

Grey didn't like the look Geheran had. He could see worry behind those gray eyes.

"How large is the Alliance?" asked Grey.

"Originally, fifteen races encompassing seventy-seven solar systems. Adding the five races we had originally formed relationships with, the Alliance is now composed of twenty-one races and one hundred sixty-seven systems throughout the galaxy." Sulan said as he began tapping on some recessed controls on the table.

A three-dimensional holographic projection of the galaxy filled the space between them. A yellow fog enveloped a section of the projection indicating the total size of the alliance.

Grey let out a whistle as he saw how the alliance's area of influence had covered nearly half of the galaxy. He leaned forward, placing his elbows on the table as he rested his chin on his hands.

Geheran and Sulan both watched the human as his eyes wandered across the map. Geheran could see his friend's mind beginning to work. He was curious to hear what Grey's thoughts were.

"Can you color the solar systems to indicate where each of the races control?" Grey asked.

Sulan tapped at the console. The fog surrounding the highlighted systems seemed to part, being replaced by four colored areas.

"Red indicates the systems held by Synac and the worlds we were associated with before the alliance. Yellow is the Klizul alliance and its members." Sulan explained.

"Klizul?" Grey asked, confused by the unfamiliar name brought into the discussion.

Grey looked at the two new areas. Synac's area seemed to cover a very tight network of close proximity systems where the Klizul seemed to be spread wide. From where he sat, there was a great deal of overlap between the areas. He then noticed there were additional highlights on the map. A large number of blue systems spread throughout the galaxy and a small number of green systems on the opposite side of Synac's space from the alliance. He looked curiously at the fifteen green systems.

"The Klizul were the first to approach us from the Alliance." Sulan replied as he tapped again at the recessed controls on the table. "One of their representatives has been accompanying each of the missions to earth."

A small image of a Klizul appeared on the surface of the table below the projection of the galaxy.

"A sickly, frail species." Geheran said with a modicum of disgust in his voice. "Something about their manner has never given me reason to fully trust them."

"These blue and green systems, what do they represent?" Grey asked, as he intently stared at the green systems, never noticing the small figure.

"The blue are worlds we know to be populated by other races not that have not been contacted by any known alliance. Earth is among them, right there along the edge of Synac's space. The green ones we believe to be under a newly forming alliance that we have not made contact with yet." explained Sulan.

Grey looked at the proximity of the green systems to Earth. They were close.

"What benefit would there be if Earth didn't join the Alliance?" Grey asked.

"None. Earth would not..." Sulan began to reply.

"No, I mean what would benefit the Alliance?" Interrupted Grey.

"That's an interesting way of looking at it. Still, I don't see any benefit, just the loss of trade, cultural exchange and an ally if ever needed to help defend the Alliance." Geheran said, scratching the underside of his muzzle in thought.

Grey finally looked down from the galaxy map to the surface of the table and the small projection of the Klizul. He froze as he looked at the image.

Geheran and Sulan both watched in silence as Grey stared at the image.

Grey looked Geheran in the eye briefly before standing and leaning over the table. He looked around as his head entered the projection of the galaxy.

"Grey? What?" Geheran prompted, knowing Grey had made a connection.

Geheran could also see that connection seemed to put Grey on edge.

"Aside from the observers on the SDF missions, have any members of the Klizul Alliance visited Earth before?" Grey asked.

"No." Sulan stated with certainty. "When we joined the Klizul, they provided records of the worlds they visited."

"What about any of the systems on this side of Synac's space?" Grey asked, waving his hand around the galaxy, near the green highlighted systems.

"No." Sulan said.

Grey sat back down heavily.

"I think that's the key. Defense. If Earth isn't in the Alliance, then it's not under its protection. Right? What would happen if another race attacked Earth for its resources, conquest or whatever reason? Would the Alliance interfere?" Grey asked.

"No, but Synac might, especially if the planet had something unique or was in a strategic position. Earth does have large resources, but it is of no strategic value since it is outside Alliance-controlled space." Sulan responded.

"What if another race planned to exploit that, a fairly isolated planet with large resources?" Grey paused to let them think. "Okay, let's say Synac would normally intervene. What if that planet happened to be populated by a violent race called humans who were responsible for the death of one Emissary and the imprisonment of another that came to them in peace? Would there be much Trephi concern if another race subjugated them? From the attitudes I've witnessed in the past few days, I would have to say no."

"Sadly, I believe you're right. It would be hard to get public approval to defend Earth with the current history of events." Sulan responded bleakly.

Grey looked toward Sulan. "Geheran and myself know that Sheral was one of your best Emissaries and not prone to making mistakes. Geheran mentioned there was an Alliance representative on her last mission. What if somehow he exposed the transport, making it visible on our detection systems or to our satellites. Perhaps he had something that emitted some kind of detectable signal. I know our military's response times. They shouldn't have been able to get there as quick as they did."

"I don't see reason behind that. The observer would be put into equal danger." Replied Sulan.

"Would they? Safe inside a SDF transport. Earth doesn't have the technology to rupture that alloy behind the bulk of your technology." Grey said as he sat back in his chair.

Geheran always found Grey's ability to take small fragments of information and assemble them into something plausible extremely unnerving. He would make a cunning adversary. He was glad Grey was his friend.

"Geheran, on Sheral's last mission, there was a representative on board. How long was the transport down?" Grey asked.

"Almost two of your hours."

"Was there a Klizul representative on Nicia's mission?"

"When she was dropped off, yes. But the transport was only on the ground for a few minutes."

"When I saw Nicia for the first time, she was being followed. I didn't mention that before because I passed it off as coincidence. But, in light of this information, I see it's possible she might have been under observation from a short time after she was dropped off. There's no telling what might have happened if we hadn't met."

Geheran quietly listened to what Grey was saying. The idea that his daughter could have shared the same fate of his mate was a harrowing thought.

"Now, I know there wasn't a Klizul on the rescue. How long was the transport waiting at the rendezvous site?" Grey asked.

"The Klizul only provide an observer on diplomatic missions. A rescue mission isn't considered diplomatic, it falls solely under the SDF. Nersal and Vulmeran were closest and were dispatched as soon as Nicia's communications stopped. They were waiting nearly two of your days at the rendezvous point."

"Quite a difference between two hours. Isn't it?"

"Yes, but that doesn't offer a reason what the representative would hope to gain by revealing our presence." Sulan commented.

"Two things. First, they've gained what you said a few minutes ago, animosity toward Earth and humans. Your Emissaries are revered by your people, responsible for establishing peaceful relations with other worlds and if required, doing whatever necessary to protect Synac. Geheran is the highest ranking Emissary and heads the SDF. Sheral was second highest ranking Emissary and with the compassion she showed others, I'm certain that many mourn her loss. Then there's Nicia, daughter to Sheral and Geheran, new to the Emissarial role, but from what I've seen of her abilities, will most likely attain a high position as well. How much further would anti-human feelings have grown if she suffered the same fate as her mother?"

Grey paused to let Sulan think about what was said.

"Remember what you said earlier about getting public approval to defend Earth? If Geheran lost his family to human hands, how ready would he be to allow the SDF to lend itself to that defense?" Grey asked Sulan.

Geheran cleared his throat to release the knot that had formed.

"Had I never met you, not likely." Geheran stated plainly.

"You probably would have wanted to lead the first strike." Grey said, attempting to lighten Geheran's mood. Although Geheran suppressed a smile, Grey knew he was somewhat successful by the ear-flick Geheran let slip as he turned to look at him.

"Definitely. However, after having the opportunity to know you has shown me the good qualities your species has. Even if I had lost Nicia as well, I would never fault your entire race for the ill intentions of a few of its members."

Not knowing what to say, Grey simply nodded to Geheran in acknowledgement and appreciation.

"And the second thing these actions would give them?" Sulan asked.

"What if I told you that the Klizul have lied to you?" Grey asked as he looked down at the image of the Klizul.

"How would you know this?" Sulan asked. "What proof could you give?"

"Oh, you could go to Earth and pick a random sampling of humans. I'll have each one confirm it for you." Grey said, sitting back in his chair.

"That's impossible. Except for yourself, humans have not made contact with any other races." Sulan said, slightly agitated.

"True, but there are many humans that believe other races have made contact with us. There are some humans that claim to have seen alien spaceships at night and some that claim to have been abducted by them."

"What are you getting at, Grey? Are you saying the Klizul have visited Earth?" Geheran asked.

"You could go to any human and ask them to describe what the typical description of an alien would look like. You won't get a description of a Trephyn or any of the other races you know. You will get a description of small, thin beings with no hair, large black eyes, thin lipless mouths and nearly nonexistent noses. You'll get a description of that." Grey said, pointing to the image of the Klizul as he finished.

Sulan and Geheran looked at each other in silence. They knew that would be too much of a coincidence not to be true.

Grey reached over and tapped at the console, causing the image of the galaxy to expand and envelop Geheran, Sulan and himself. From within the projection, they could now see what he saw earlier.

"Welcome to the future of Synac's space." Grey said as he then turned off the red highlighting that indicated Synac's allies.

It was evident that the rest of the Alliance was spreading around Synac's space. The yellow highlighting clearly indicated a shell forming around them. Only a smaller section was open directly opposite of the bulk of the alliance. That section was beginning to be obscured by the green highlighted worlds.

If Grey was right and the Klizul were on that end of space, it could mean that the third alliance could be backed by the Klizul. If that alliance continued to grow, they could have more resources than Synac.

The Klizul systems combined with the fifteen additional systems already outnumbered what Synac and its allies had. Synac had the advantage of its technology, but they would not be able to protect everywhere at once. If not stopped now, it would only result in a long costly war.

"Geheran," Sulan began. "I believe the plan we had discussed earlier may be necessary."

Geheran nodded and looked toward Grey.

"Alright, Grey, here's what I have in mind." Geheran said as he began to explain his plan to Grey.

"If you are clear on what must be done, then our meeting is finished." Sulan said to Grey.

"Yes. I will find a way to deliver your proposal to our government." Grey said with certainty.

"Good." Sulan grinned. "You have our trust and our thanks."

Grey and Geheran stood as Sulan left the room.

"Well, this is going to be interesting." Grey said.

"Problem?" Geheran asked.

"Unless you plan on landing a transport right on the Whitehouse lawn, I'll need some kind of proof. Perhaps you can furnish me with some kind of communication device that I would be able to use to put our leaders directly in touch with you or Sulan."

"I can arrange that." Geheran said, taking his seat again.

"Which? Landing the transport or the comm-set?" Grey joked as he joined him at the table.

"The comm-set." Geheran laughed. "I don't see how you can joke after hearing our plans."

"It helps to let off some tension."

"True."

"You know, I'm really going to miss Synac this time." Grey admitted, distant in thought.

"Are you going to miss Synac or Nicia?" Geheran asked, as his lips drew back into a knowing smile.

"I'll especially miss her." Grey said with a nervous grin.

"I've been meaning to talk to you about your relationship with her." Geheran said, still smiling.

"Geheran. I respect you too much to ever do..." Grey began before Geheran silenced him.

"Grey." Geheran interrupted. "It's all right."

"What?" Grey asked in surprise.

"Nicia is so very much like her mother, but I'm sure you've already noticed that." Geheran said.

Grey nodded in agreement.

"You know, Sheral liked you very much. She said you reminded her of me when I was younger." Geheran said as he began to laugh at the memory. "She even said that if she were unmated, that she might have considered you."

Geheran paused a moment to look at Grey. His ears flicked in amusement as he realized this was the first time he had ever seen Grey nervous around him.

"Sheral had always wanted you two to meet. I never understood why until I watched you two together at the gathering last night." Geheran said.

Grey was astonished to hear what Geheran was telling him.

"Nicia looked happier than I could ever remember. Sheral knew you two would get along well together. I think she probably pictured the same relationship between you two that Sheral and I had." Geheran added.

Grey was shocked by Geheran's sincerity. He never would have expected him to react so openly.

"Don't look so surprised. I could tell she had developed feelings for you by how upset she was when you were injured during her rescue." Geheran began to smile shrewdly. "Although I'm not good at reading your expressions, I know you care for her as well."

"Yes. Nicia is very special. It's been quite some time since I've cared for anyone. Especially as much as I do for her." Grey admitted softly.

"Well then, since this is your last night on Synac, maybe you should tell Nicia how you feel before you go." Geheran encouraged.

Grey looked at Geheran.

"You are really okay with this?" Grey asked.

Geheran met Grey's eyes and smiled warmly.

"All any father wants is to see his children happy and well cared for. I know you make Nicia very happy. I know that you would protect her with your very life. You've already demonstrated that even before you knew she was my daughter."

Geheran stood up and moved behind Grey.

"And then there is you, my friend. I know what your past has been like. You deserve a little happiness yourself. So, yes, whatever happens between you two, I am quite okay with it." Geheran said as he headed for the door.

Before leaving the room he turned to Grey.

"I'll go work on the things you'll need. Meanwhile, why don't you go tell Nicia how you feel?" Geheran said smiling widely before leaving.

Grey sat in the room alone with his thoughts for a few moments after Geheran left. He couldn't believe that Geheran was so pleasant, almost happy, about the idea of him and Nicia.

"Why not," he asked aloud as he stood up and headed off to find Nicia.

Geheran walked down the hall, laughing to himself. He couldn't help think about Grey and Nicia. If their relationship was going to be anything like his and Sheral's, Grey was going to be in for trouble. Geheran snickered again as he drew questioning looks from a passing Trephyn. Sometimes, however, trouble can be a good thing.

Grey stood in the darkness, watching from the end of the taxiway as the transport was being prepped for his trip home tomorrow. He was glad when Geheran had told him that Nersal and Meran would be the flight crew. Though that joy was short lived when he learned that the Klizul observer would be accompanying them as well.

"Looking forward to going home tomorrow?" Nicia asked as she approached Grey from behind.

"Yes and no."

"Which do I fall under?" She teased.

Grey turned to her and smiled. He knew she was teasing, but something in her voice sounded as though she needed to hear an answer.

"There are some matters that need to be taken care of back home. Some I look forward to, and others, I don't. If I had a choice, I'd choose to stay with you," Grey said, smiling warmly at Nicia.

"I wanted to do something before you go." Nicia said nervously.

Grey thought she seemed a little anxious at the moment as he watched her hold out her left arm. She slid the sleeve back with her right hand to reveal the small control pad on the holoweb.

Nicia keyed a short sequence that activated the web.

Grey watched a glow appear around Nicia. As the image solidified, standing before him was the woman he had originally seen the day they met.

"Impressive," Grey said while he took time to look closely at the image before him, "I'm curious, did you choose this appearance?"

"Yes. When we need to use the webs, we usually like to customize the images to resemble ourselves somewhat. It helps us to identify each other and is less conspicuous if a group of us would be together." She said as she moved closer to him.

The Human-Nicia did resemble the Trephyn-Nicia to some extent. The human version appeared to be a woman in her mid-twenties, nearly the equivalent age of Nicia. Both of their heights and general body shapes remained consistent. The human image also shared the same grayish hair coloring as the patterns in the Trephyn's fur.

Grey smiled as he met her gaze. "Your eyes are the same."

"Of course." She said as the Human-Nicia began to smile in return. "The projection must be similar to a mask around the eyes. If the web projected something over them, I would not be able to see."

"Interesting," he said, smiling. Then he asked, "Is showing me this what you wanted to do?"

Nicia stepped closer, placing her hands up on his shoulders.

"No," she said with a smile, "This."

Nicia leaned forward, while her hands moved up to his neck, pulling him closer. Her eyes closed as her lips neared his.

Grey's hands went to her wrists, loosening her grip as he stepped back.

"What are you doing?" He asked in astonishment.

She opened her eyes and looked at him in confusion.

"I just wanted to give you.." She paused a moment to try to hide overwhelming sadness she felt. "I'm sorry," she began as she looked away, embarrassed, "I should have realized from how you tensed up whenever I got too close that it was more than your worries about what my father would think. I had hoped you wouldn't mind if I at least looked human. I'm sorry."

Although the image of the Human-Nicia didn't show it. Grey could hear the hurt in her voice. His fingers fumbled over her left wrist until he found the small control pad. Nicia watched as he keyed the sequence that deactivated the web.

"That image isn't the real you," he said as he placed his hand gently against her gray furred cheek.

Grey gently turned her face toward him as he looked deep into her eyes. He leaned towards her, closing his eyes as their lips met in a long soft kiss.

Nicia was initially confused, but melted into his embrace as she put her arms around him. As their first kiss came to an end, any negative feelings Nicia had were gone.

Grey hugged Nicia close as he rested his cheek against hers.

"Since the gathering I've been thinking about what you said about Geheran accepting our relationship whether it was as friends or more. Especially, the more part. I have enjoyed the time we spent together and now that I have to go, I realize how much you mean to me. Nicia, the real you is who I care about, not some trick of light."

"So why are you admitting this now?" She asked while hugging him for what he had just said.

"I guess after all these years I've finally started to listen to my heart again," he said softly as he wrapped his arms around her and hugged back.

"And what is it telling you?" She teased, though part of her wanted a serious answer.

"I don't think I have the words to describe what I feel, but to put it simply," Grey brought his lips close to her ear. "I love you," he whispered softly.

Nicia's eyes began to tear as she hugged him tightly. "Then don't leave. Stay here." She pleaded. "If you go, there is no telling whether the Alliance will allow travel to Earth again. You might not be able to return here, and I may not be able to go to you."

"You don't know how much I would like to stay with you." Grey said, stroking the back of her neck lightly. "Don't worry about the alliance. If things go as Geheran has planned, Earth will be in the alliance or Synac will be out. Either way, I'm sure we will be together again."

"What?" Nicia asked, stepping back from him in surprise.

"Geheran believes that one or more of the alliance worlds want to prevent Earth from entering the alliance in order to take its resources. If Earth isn't allowed to join, it doesn't receive protection under the alliance. That way its attackers don't have to fear any retaliation." Grey explained. "Geheran knows that the alliance doesn't have enough power to challenge Synac. He's asked me to complete your original mission. However, I will make two offers of alliance to Earth's leaders. The first is your original offer into the planetary alliance. If the Alliance refuses to acknowledge Earth's acceptance of their original offer, Geheran and Sulan have instructed me to make a second offer, an alliance between Synac and Earth."

Nicia stared at Grey in disbelief while the night air around them began to hum as another transport began to power up for takeoff.

"Let's go somewhere quieter." Grey shouted above the noise.

"Your place or mine?" Nicia asked with a playful, yet serious, look in her eyes.

Grey woke to the sensation of a soft furry body pressed against his own. He smiled as he looked down at the sight of Nicia cuddling against him, her arm across his chest as she tucked her muzzle close along his neck.

For the first time in the last few years, he felt completely at ease. Even the worries of returning to Earth were far from his thoughts. He gently stroked the fur along her back, admiring its silken texture.

Nicia began to stir as Grey continued stroking her back. She let out a contented sigh as she stretched. "That was wonderful. I've wanted to do that with you since the night of the gathering."

Grey looked at her with surprise. "Really?"

Nicia cocked her head to the side as she smiled. "I'm surprised you couldn't tell."

"When you were trying to show me how to dance, I have to admit I found your method of instruction very enjoyable."

Nicia smiled seductively. "Well, I like the way we danced tonight."

"Huh? Oh!" Grey began to blush as he realized what she had meant.

Grey gave a coy smile. "So, does this mean we're mated?"

"If you were a Trephyn, yes." She said with a reluctant smile. "But, I know your culture has different mating practices. I don't want you to feel obligated."

Grey smiled inwardly as he saw a perfect opportunity to tease Nicia in retaliation for the way she had teased him earlier during their lovemaking.

"Oh," he said, faking sadness. "So, I'm not good enough to be your mate."

"Grey, no..." She began tenderly, until she noticed him beginning to smile. "You!" She exclaimed as she rolled on top of him, pinning him to the bed.

"I know your mating practice as well." Grey said as he wrapped his arms around Nicia and pulled her down to rest against him. "I knew exactly what I was getting into when I told you how I felt about you. I'll be whatever you wish: friend, lover, mate. I'll be happy as long as we're together."

"Hmm. How about all three?" She teased playfully.

Grey laughed softly at her enthusiastic reply. "Well, we've been through the first two. It's up to you about number three."

He lay quietly, looking deeply into eyes. Her fur felt warm and soft against his bare skin as he enjoyed her weight against his chest.

He realized that he loved everything about her. He enjoyed her wit and sense of humor. When they escaped from the quarantine lab, he could see the strength and determination she possessed. In action she was calm and precise. In private she revealed her tender and compassionate side.

She wasn't human, but all those qualities she possessed made her more beautiful than anyone he had ever known.

"Grey, I love you." Nicia looked down into Grey's eyes and smiled affectionately. "Would you be my mate?"

Grey returned her smile. "Forever."

Nicia smiled widely, her eyes bright with the love she felt. Her lips brushed tenderly across his in a delicate kiss as she gently ran her fingers through his hair.

Grey stroked her sides as she continued to place feathery kisses along his jaw, working her way down his neck.

Nicia's eyes met Grey's with a seductive smile as her caresses took on a more amorous nature.

It was dark and foggy. Grey still sensed the feeling of urgency although this time he knew he was dreaming. He looked outside the hatch of the transport as it hovered silently just above the ground.

Looking up from the ground he could see the same dim blurry cones of light cast through the fog by vehicles and soldiers.

Again, a shadow started to form, heading towards the transport. Through the fog the shadow slowly took the form of Sheral as she came closer.

Other figures materialized out of the fog firing at her and the transport.

This time he did not reach out toward Sheral as she came close. He already knew it was pointless.

Sheral reached out towards him. Her body jerked as a bullet tore through her, staining her white fur with a spray of her own crimson blood. Her eyes went wide as she stumbled forward.

Grey looked into the distance where he knew he would see Marx, lowering his rifle after taking the shot.

He knew it was all a dream. He watched in silence but his heart still cried out as his friend fell to the ground. The transport lurched as it started gaining altitude.

Grey fell back from the hatch and suddenly found himself face to face with Marx.

"I shot another last year before it could make it to its ship," Marx gloated. "You might have prevented me from obtaining another specimen, but I will succeed one day."

Grey turned to look out the transport's hatch, back towards Sheral. Instead, he was looking back at Marx as he stood behind the glass window back in the quarantine chamber.

Marx pulled three strips of fabric from his pocket and tossed them on the ground in front of Grey.

Grey looked down at the strips expecting to see the names of his friends. Instead, each strip bore a word: Compassion, Loyalty, Honor.

"Don't feel too bad, Sanborne. When I killed them, they didn't suffer...much." Marx said through the intercom.

Grey yelled as he slammed his hand against the glass between them. The glass shattered into shards of light as Grey woke from the nightmare.

He sat up breathing heavily as he wiped the sweat from his eyes.

Nicia sat up in alarm. Grey's scent was strong in the air from his sweat. She looked over at him and didn't have to feel his chest this time to know his heart was beating wildly.

"Grey, what's wrong?" She asked, looking at him with a worried expression.

"Oh my God," Grey said outloud as he jumped off the bed, "his wording, he was taunting me."

Nicia looked at him in total confusion. "Calm down and tell me what's wrong. Who was taunting you?"

"I hope I'm wrong." He said as he began to get dressed. "Nicia, I need to send a message, and I need to send it completely untraceable. Please don't ask me to explain any further." He pleaded.

Nicia got up to aid him, unsure but willing to help.

"There's no way to send a completely private message. You'd do better telling them in person, but I can give it a security level that would make it inaccessible to most." Nicia said as she began working at the desk.

"Would anyone on the alliance council be able to access it through logs? Non-Trephyn members?" Grey asked.

"Not directly. They could request to see certain data streams if they knew what they were looking for. Even then it would take a day or two for their request to be granted."

"Perfect." Grey grinned. "That's all the time I need."

Grey and Nicia stood outside the hatch of the transport as Meran slid the last of the containers, past the Klizul observer, inside to Nersal.

"We will rendezvous with one of our freighters to deliver these supplies after we return the human to Earth." The frail looking observer said as he handed a cargo manifest to Meran.

As the observer moved to board the transport, Grey stepped backward blocking his movement as he pulled Nicia to him.

"I'm going to miss you, Nicia." Grey said as he pulled her close and drew her into a kiss, almost aggressively.

Nicia was confused by his forcefulness and pushed back from him. "What..." she began to say as Meran pulled Grey off her and threw him up against the hatch.

"How dare you act that way with an Emissary!" Meran growled.

Nicia had never seen Meran act so aggressively. Though even more puzzling was the way Grey was acting.

Grey steadied himself then threw a punch at Meran.

Meran blocked Grey's punch and kicked into his chest, sending Grey backward into the transport.

"Just because you saved her life doesn't give you the right to treat her with such disrespect." Meran growled again as he moved around in front of the Klizul observer toward the hatch.

Nersal watched in amusement as he noted the observer behind Meran.

"You have no honor, human." Nersal said as he gave Grey a thumb's up.

Grey got up and with a yell, he charged toward Meran.

Meran began backing up, knowing he would only be adding to Grey's momentum.

The observer didn't have time to move before he realized what was about to happen.

Grey impacted Meran, sending them both crashing into the observer and pinning him against a railing with a sickening crunch.

"Enough." Nersal yelled as he pulled Grey off Meran and shoved him back inside the transport.

"Meran, you will report to the complex commander and await disciplinary action." Nersal ordered.

"And you," He said, turning to Grey. "I'd better get you back to your miserable little planet before you cause any more trouble."

"I'll go with you." Nicia said.

"Emissary, it might be wise if you helped the observer. As an alliance representative, he should take priority over the human. Besides, one Trephyn can manage the transport without any problems."

Nicia was about to protest when she caught a glimpse of Grey, nodding to her from within the transport.

Nicia couldn't understand what was happening. It was as if Meran and Nersal had switched personalities. She never would have expected Meran to react as he did. Yet Nersal, considering his history with Grey, remained calm. The only answer that she could think of was that it must be part of her father's plan.

"You're right." She reluctantly agreed, moving to aid the Klizul as Nersal went back inside the transport.

Grey sat in Meran's seat in the transport's cockpit watching the various personnel clearing the area around the transport. He saw Nicia and Meran helping the Klizul back to the complex. He wasn't even gone, yet he already missed Nicia terribly.

The cockpit door hissed open as Nersal entered and seated himself at the controls as he brought the transport's systems online.

Nersal looked to Grey with cold amber eyes. "You should know I am only doing this because Meran asked me to help you."

Grey's attention remained fixed on the figures on the taxiway. "I know. Thanks."

As they saw Nicia clear the pad with the Klizul observer, Nersal brought the transport into an immediate climb.

Grey still hated not being to feel the acceleration of the transport which was canceled by the ship's inertial dampeners. Although he could see the transport was pitched nearly vertical and increasing velocity, there was no sense of motion. Grey closed his eyes and concentrated on the only thing he could feel, the vibration of the transport's drive.

Nicia could tell by the fur standing on her fathers neck that he was enraged by the report of what happened on the pad.

"He did what?" Geheran yelled as he jumped up from his desk.

Meran's normally tall stature suddenly looked minuscule under Geheran's stare.

Nicia blinked in surprise when Meran said Grey had wanted Nersal to take him back to Earth. She found that hard to believe given the amount of tension between them.

Nicia looked at her father. "I thought this was all part of your plan."

Geheran shook his head.

Nersal's hand flew across the navigation console, quickly entering coordinates that were becoming all to familiar.

A red circle projected on the screen indicating the vector needed to reach the jump point. As Nersal adjusted the controls, the circle worked its way toward a small red dot near the center of the view screen. Once the circle surrounded the dot, both changed color to a light cyan, indicating they were on course.

Grey thought how similar it was to the heads-up-display he was familiar with, except this one covered the entire front of the cockpit.

As Nersal locked the transport on its course, he glanced toward Grey before starting a systems check.

"Why did you request me to return you to Earth instead of Meran? I would have thought you would rather spend the trip with a friend."

"I would." Grey said flatly as Nersal looked toward him once more. "However, I know that when Sheral was captured, the Klizul prevented you from trying to help her. I thought you might like the opportunity to correct that."

Nersal turned back to the controls. "Yes."

The cockpit was silent except for a few random beeps and clicks as Nersal worked the controls in an attempt to look busy.

Grey leaned back and closed his eyes. It was going to be a long trip.

With Synac a few hours behind them they made the jump into curved space.

Grey disappeared into the back, reappearing shortly with a few small pouches.

Nersal turned control over to the ship's computer. He reclined his own chair slightly as he lay back for a short rest.

Grey tossed one of the pouches to Nersal then sat down.

Nersal caught the pouch. "Thanks," he said, slightly surprised that the human would bring him a drink.

"I don't suppose you'd get the joke if I asked if we were there yet?" Grey grinned before taking a drink.

Nersal watched Grey for a moment through squinted eyes before speaking.

"Sanborne, why are you acting so friendly."

Grey laughed without turning toward Nersal. "I don't act. I am friendly."

"But, you dislike me. I could see it in your eyes the first time we met."

Grey wondered what Nersal was getting at. "The first time we met, you didn't give me much opportunity to like you. Now that I know your reasons for hating humans, I understand you better. To be honest, I can't blame you for feeling that way, with what has happened."

Nersal let out a little hum in a mixture of surprise and thoughtfulness at Grey's comment as he turned back to the console while sipping at his drink.

"Do you believe there is a chance Sheral is still alive?"

"Yes."

"How can you be certain?"

"Marx, the human that shot Sheral, killed three friends of mine a few years ago. I found that out while I was being held with Nicia. He gloated freely about killing them. Just before trying to kill me, he admitted shooting another Trephyn." Grey sounded distant as he watched the displays in front of him calculating for the jump to normal space seventy hours ahead of them. "It occurred to me before I sent you and Meran that message last night. Marx said that he had shot, not killed, another a few months before. Those words have been in the back of my mind ever since. I'm certain if he had killed Sheral, he would have been gloating about that as well."

Grey looked down as he thought about what Sheral must be going through if she were still alive. "Part of me wonders if she might be better off dead."

Nersal turned viciously toward Grey with a deep growl. "Why would you wish that?"

Grey turned to Nersal with a pained expression. "I've been interrogated myself. After seeing how Nicia was being treated, I can't imagine what Sheral might have had to endure for over six months."

Nersal's amber eyes softened as he realized Grey was not wishing Sheral harm.

"Why are you doing this? What do you get out of helping us?" Nersal asked, immediately regretting how harsh it must have sounded. He tried to counter his tone by cocking his ears toward Grey in a friendly posture.

Grey noticed Nersal trying to compensate for his suspicious tone. He chuckled briefly as he thought Nersal overcompensated a little too much, and came across looking like a curious pup.

"I get the satisfaction of helping my friends." Grey smiled. "Geheran and Sheral helped me through a very rough time in my life. She helped me find purpose in my life. I owe that life to them and Nicia as well."

Nersal studied Grey thoughtfully. He was surprised by Grey's loyalty to his friends.

"I don't think I will ever trust humans, though, I do feel that I should apologize to you. You have done nothing for me to dislike you. I was too quick to judge you,and my anger has caused me to behave in poor judgement. For acting that way to you, I am sorry."

Grey was taken aback by the genuine sincerity of Nersal's apology. "Not necessary. What has passed, has passed."

Grey sat alone in the cockpit. He wondered what Nersal was up to. He had been in the cargo hold for three hours.

Grey was about to go back and check on him when the cockpit door opened and a rather dirty Trephyn came through.

"Look what I found." Nersal handed a small gold object to Grey.

Grey turned it over a few times, studying it. It wasn't much bigger than a matchbook, but it was much heavier than it appeared. Except a small embossed glyph of dots and bars it was totally smooth and rounded along the edges.

"Ok, I give up. What is it?"

"It's proof of your theory that the Klizul were using a signal beacon. I found it in one of the crates we loaded before departure. From what I can tell, it's been transmitting since we left. It's deactivated now."

"Then why wasn't it detected before on any previous missions?"

"Timing. Since our sensors can't scan every frequency simultaneously, they cycle through each frequency of the spectrum, scanning each briefly. This beacon produces a signal that is within our sensor range, but between scanning cycles."

"So, while the sensors are going through the other frequencies, the beacon transmits on its own."

"Essentially, yes. It's exactly in time with our sensor scan rate. So, unless the beacon is turned on exactly the moment its frequency is being scanned, it will never be detected."

"Nersal, when you get back to Synac, make sure Geheran knows about this."

"I will. You can depend on that."

Grey watched the view screen as normal space exploded into existence. He knew that in less than twenty-four hours, he would be back on Earth. The last time he made this journey he was happy to be returning to Earth. This time, he dreaded it.

Questions nagged at him. Would he be able to rescue Sheral if she were still alive? Could he deliver Geheran's proposals? Would he get to see Nicia again? He had tough assignments before, but this time, so much more seemed to be at stake.

Grey waited for Nersal to finish setting the final approach to Earth.

"Now that we're back in normal space, is it possible for me to contact someone on Earth?"

"Communications is more Meran's specialty."

Nersal's expression became serious as he thought. Finally, he looked toward Grey with a grin.

"On our last trip we did leave one of our signal relays in polar orbit. I think I could use that to patch in, but I need to know what frequencies."

"If you can tap in around the upper eight hundred megahertz range. That will link you in on our digital satellite network."

"Hmmm, I can do that. Give me a few minutes."

Grey watched Nersal working at the console. Grey blinked in astonishment when, in less than a minute, the TransBell logo popped up on a monitor. Even Nersal seemed surprised to have broken into the network so easily.

"And Meran makes such a big deal out of this stuff. Ok, Sanborne. It's all yours."

"Hello. Thank you for calling Drake Security Services." Answered a young woman on the other side of the phone.

"Hihi, Anne, si-grah John?"

"Excuse me?" came her confused reply.

Grey remained silent for a moment, puzzled by her reaction and oblivious to his mistake.

Nersal grinned. "I don't think she speaks Synacian."

Grey winced at his faux pas. "Oh. Sorry, Anne. Is John there?"

"Yes, who's calling?"

"Grey."

There was a long wait until an angry male voice picked up.

"Look, whoever you are, if you're looking for trouble..."

"Hold on, John, it's me. Grey."

Drake paused as he hit a key on the computer by his phone. "Grey Sanborne is dead."

"Ok, then I'm calling you from the grave. Which is probably exactly how that trace you just started will appear in twenty seconds."

"Keep talkin, asshole." Drake said with a smirk, knowing he had one of the most sophisticated trace programs in the world attached to his phone.

"Look John, I know you've probably heard quite a few rumors by now. I'm dead. I'm a traitor or a spy. I can only imagine what other junk they've come up with by now. Hey, that trace fail yet?"

Drake watched the monitor as the trace worked its way back from his house, through several local switches, back to the regional telephone company and up to the ComStar Seventeen satellite before producing an error, signal origin unknown. He stared momentarily at the screen in disbelief.

"Ok, you have my attention. How do I know you are who you say."

"Well, lets just pretend I am. I know this would be going beyond our friendship. I won't lie to you, there is danger involved. I'm flying blind, and I can't come in yet, not until I take care of something."

"Ok, if you are who you say, what would you need."

"Just info. The guy I had you look up last time; you remember his name. I need you to dig deep into the black hole this guy hides in. I need to know exactly where he has been operating from for the last eight months. I'm especially looking for any sudden changes around seven months ago."

"What would you do with that info?"

"I don't know yet. I'm about twenty hours out. I'll let you know more when I'm local. Just find out what you can by then and we'll meet."

"Where?"

"The last place on earth anyone would ever expect to find me." Grey grinned.

Drake began to smile as he recognized the meeting place. "Ok, Grey, I'll see what I can do."

"Right. See you in twenty hours."

Grey closed the connection and sat back heavily in his seat.

Nersal watched Grey curiously. "That was cryptic, but he seemed to believe you were alive at the end."

Grey grinned. "Yep, he recognized the place I want to meet him at."

Nersal guided the transport into the valley, bringing it into a hover just above the shoreline of a small lake.

Grey took a small stunner out of a storage compartment and placed it in his pocket before walking to the hatch.

"Sanborne, Geheran asked me to give you this." Nersal handed Grey a small device that looked similar to a pocket sized video game.

Grey took the communications set and placed it in his jacket. "Thanks."

Nersal held out the Klizul beacon to Grey. "I've modified it to put out a constant signal. Just press the symbol when you need me to pick you up. I'll be there within five minutes." Nersal paused briefly. "I thought it would be appropriate."

Grey grinned at the irony. The device used to give away the presence of his friend would be used to aid in returning her home. "I like the way you think."

"Good luck." Nersal said as he awkwardly held his hand out towards Grey.

Grey looked at Nersal's hand extended towards him in the human manor. He took it firmly. "Thanks."

Grey turned and opened the hatch. He dropped down onto a patch of gravel by the water. The hatch was already closing by the time he turned to look up at the transport. Moments later the ship drifted out over the water before lowering into the lake and disappearing below the surface.

Grey headed up towards a large stone and log lodge overlooking the lake. He walked around to the main door and punched his access code into the keyless entry system. Lights automatically turned on as he went inside. For some reason it felt emptier than usual, not like home should feel.

Grey went upstairs and did a quick change of clothes, slipping into a fresh tank top and pants. He took some cash out of his dresser and put it in his pocket. He slipped his jacket back on as he went back downstairs, making sure he still had the beacon, his stunner and Geheran's comm-set.

He entered the den and took a seat at a desk in front of a large window overlooking the lake. He opened a drawer and removed a stationary tablet on which he began writing a detailed letter. When he finished, he placed the letter in a large envelope marked confidential. Before sealing the flap, he removed Geheran's comm-set from his pocket and placed it into the envelope.

He replaced the tablet in the desk and took out a set of keys before closing the drawer. Grey picked up the envelope and headed slowly through his home towards the garage.

He wondered if it might be the last time he would be here. He had worked all his life to afford his home. It started as a just a dream, a goal to look forward to and a reason to come home from his assignments.

He passed a wall of photographs similar to the ones Drake had in his home. His own wall of memories. His dream home had started small, just a cabin, but over the years had grown to the large estate he had today. He envisioned having a large enough place to invite everyone he was close to over the years, to celebrate their friendship and in a way to say they had all survived. Sadly it seemed to him to have been for naught. All the people he had ever considered himself close to were gone. His family was gone. Drake was the only one left and the only other people he cared for besides John weren't exactly people one could safely invite.

He entered the garage and hit the automatic door opener. He got in his sport utility and headed down the road to his meeting with Drake.

Grey pulled into the gravel lot between two other cars. He sat for a moment looking at the old, worn building that once could have been a barn.

A rain spout, broken away from the gutter, jutted out into the night sky at an angle that seemed to defy gravity. Faded and rusting street signs from various cities around the world covered the exterior of the converted barn as well as the small addition that stemmed from one side. A poorly lit sign hung over half the length of the porch. Hand-painted letters gave name to the establishment, The Last Place on Earth Tavern. Judging by its outward appearance, it was indeed the last place on Earth anyone would have expected to find the hospitality, good food and friendly patrons that were common at the LPOE.

A heavyset woman behind the bar looked up as he entered. Her round cheeks rose in a smile as she recognized Grey.

"Hello, Mr. Sanborne, we haven't seen you around here in a while." said a woman behind the bar. "How's that lodge of yours coming? Just about finished I'd expect."

Grey gave her a friendly smile.

"Almost, though I've been busy traveling lately."

Grey quickly scanned the room and could make out Drake sitting at a booth in the far corner of the pub.

"Good for you!" She replied wholeheartedly. "Did you happen on any new signs for us? You always visit the most interesting places."

Grey gave a short chuckle. If she only knew, he thought. "Sorry, not this time."

"Oh, that's too bad. So, will it be your usual tonight?"

"No, thank you, but I will have a piece of your fantastic rhubarb pie. I'll be with that fellow over there in the corner." Grey said, pointing to Drakes table.

"Coming right up." she said with a proud smile as she turned and headed off to the kitchen.

Drake caught sight of Grey talking to the owner behind the bar. He offered a wave when Grey turned to point in his direction.

Drake was surprised to see Grey, no worse for wear considering what he had heard lately. He noticed he was carrying a large envelope under his arm as he approached the table.

"You appear to be in pretty good health, for a dead guy." Drake grinned as he stood up and extended his hand.

"Better than you could imagine." Grey smiled as he grasped Drakes hand.

Grey was a bit surprised when Drake started to laugh and embraced him with pats on his back.

"I knew you were alive! They claimed you had been shot and killed while resisting arrest, but I could never track down a body."

"Shot, yes. Killed, no. And I'd hardly call what Marx had in store for me, arrest."

Grey became quiet as a waitress brought a piece of pie and set it in front of him. After she left he continued his conversation with Drake.

"So, what have you got for me?"

"Not much more than I provided you with last time. He's pretty much a ghost, but what you asked about his whereabouts seven months ago, Marx did show up at a private CDC lab where he's been working since. One weird thing though, I can't find any particular project to which he's assigned to. What's so important about that time frame?"

"Lets just say he hurt a friend of mine around then."

Drake gave him a puzzled look.

"Grey, what's going on? You've been more secretive lately than you have ever been. Why is this Marx guy so important to you? Who was Nicia? What the hell are you involved in?"

"I can't tell you everything. You'd probably think I was crazy if I did."

"Then tell me what you can."

"Remember the incident four years ago in Colombia?"

"Yeah. Where you lost Susan."

Grey nodded.

"It was Marx. He killed them all. He was the one that set off the nuke. I probably would have been killed too if it weren't for an unexpected friend I had made."

"Who? You never mentioned this before."

"His name was Geheran, and I couldn't tell anyone what happened. No one would have believed me anyway."

"Ok. That explains your interest in Marx. Now, who is Nicia?"

"Nicia is related to Geheran, and so is someone I believe Marx is holding somewhere within the CDC. John, I need to get in there."

Drake smiled widely. "I had a feeling you probably would. I came to know the assistant director, Stephanie Vallance, through a security evaluation I did two years ago. I could probably get you in to see her."

"Great. Now, I need you to do one final thing for me." Grey placed the envelope on the table between them. "I need you to deliver this into the hands of the president. You must give it to her personally. Don't let it out of your sight until she has opened it."

"What's in it?"

"Proof. Proof of my innocence against the false charges Marx that has made."

"Miss Vallance." Grey said formally.

Vallance looked Sanborne over. He wasn't what she expected for a security consultant.

"You must be Mr. Sanborne. Your name sounds familiar, though I can't place it."

Grey gave a friendly smile. "Perhaps John mentioned me during his last evaluation."

"That's probably it. Anyway, Mr. Drake had informed me you would be arriving to discuss some security concerns."

"Miss Vallance, I don't have much time, so I'll be very direct." Grey said producing a photo and holding it out for Vallance to see. "Within the last nine months, this man, Alec Marx came to this facility. Correct?"

"Yes. He came here a little over 6 months ago."

"Can you tell me what he's been doing here and take me there." Grey asked earnestly.

"Not really and I certainly can't take you there."

"You are the assistant director and you don't know what is going on within your facility? This has the potential to effect every living creature on this planet. I need to know what he has been doing and where." Grey said emphatically.

Vallance could see that Sanborne was very determined. She had an idea what Marx was doing several months ago. She had seen that poor creature, obviously some kind of genetic experiment.

When she confronted Marx about it, he explained that it was a matter of national security and that if she told anyone what she had seen, she would disappear along with anyone else she might have told.

Vallance wasn't sure if it was her desire to rebel against Marx's threat or Sanborne's deeply concerned expression that was compelling her to answer him. She knew that Drake's company had passed its background check without any problems. Since Sanborne worked for Drake she reasoned that he should have been cleared as well. In addition, Mr. Drake had vouched for Sanborne.

"I believe he's been working on some genetic engineering project." Vallance finally admitted.

"What kind?" Grey asked.

"It looked as if they were trying to create some kind of human and animal hybrid." Vallance said in a hushed voice.

"What you saw, was it alive?" Grey asked, hopefully.

"Yes. It was." Vallance said slowly.

"Ok, take me where you saw it."

"Look, I've already risked too much telling you what I have." Vallance said with a determined look. "I already told you I can't do that."

Grey reached into his pocket and produced the stunner.

"And I've told you I don't have much time."

Vallance's eyes widened at the sight of the weapon. "The news! Now I remember. You were the one on the news. They said you were executed for treason."

Grey winced at her comment. "Miss, I'm far from a traitor. Now, take me where you saw this experiment."

Vallance couldn't believe what was happening. She was being kidnaped and forced to reveal government secrets. She looked at the weapon Sanborne held. It didn't look like any gun she had ever seen before, but she decided she had better do as he instructed, for now.

"This way," she snapped.

"I'm sorry Miss Vallance but there isn't time for me to explain everything."

Vallance said nothing as she led him from her office down a corridor to an elevator.

Grey tucked the pistol into his pocket as they approached the elevator and the security guard that waited beside it.

"No tricks," Grey warned under his breath.

The guard pressed the call button for the elevator as they approached.

"Good evening Miss Vallance," the guard said politely as he looked from Vallance to Sanborne. "Good evening Sir."

Grey gave a friendly nod as he noted the guards name badge. M. Donovan. "Good evening."

The guard looked toward Vallance.

"Putting in a late night tonight?"

"Yes." Vallance said, "I'll be here pretty late tonight."

The elevator chimed as its doors opened. Vallance entered the car followed by Grey.

"Good night, Miss Vallance" The guard said as they entered the elevator.

"Good night, Sam." Vallance said with a friendly tone.

Grey looked at Vallance with disappointment.

"Stupid."

Grey pulled the pistol from his pocket, aiming toward the guard.

The guard was just turning to question Vallance when he saw a blue flash, and then nothing.

"You didn't have to shoot him." Vallance screamed as the elevator rode down.

"You didn't have to try to get clever."

Grey could see she was fighting back tears. He really couldn't blame her for trying.

"He'll be ok. I just stunned him. I'm not here to hurt anyone."

"Why are you doing this?" Vallance asked.

"To help a friend in trouble." Grey said, "And to help us all."

"Oh, everything is so much clearer to me now! What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Vallance yelled, approaching hysteria.

Grey frowned at Vallance's panic. "Calm down or I'll stun you too."

The elevator came to a stop.

"You can't do that because you need me to lead the way."

"So lead." Grey growled.

"Not until you tell me what this is about."

Grey knew she had him on that point. However, now was not the time for stories.

"I'll do better than that. I'll show you and explain it when you get me there."

Vallance considered Sanborne's offer. She pulled a key out of her pocket and inserted it into the elevator control.

"Thank you." Sanborne said with a smile as the elevator continued down another level.

As the elevator came to a stop, Grey pushed Vallance off to one side. He pointed his weapon toward the elevator doors as they began to open.

The two guards in the corridor didn't have time to draw their weapons before Sanborne stunned them.

Grey dragged one of the bodies across the threshold of the elevator, blocking the doors to prevent it from returning to the lobby.

Sanborne and Vallance proceeded down the hall to the only door available. Vallance tried accessing the keypad beside the lock. The door sounded a buzzing tone as it's status light flashed in the locked mode.

Grey started the pistol charging.

"Move aside."

Grey pointed at the locking mechanism as the whine of the charging pistol reached an almost unbearable pitch. The blast burned a hole clear through the jamb allowing the door to be opened with a light push.

After checking that the room was clear, Grey entered the room after sending Vallance through.

At the far end of the room was a quarantine chamber a third the size of the one he and Nicia had been trapped in. It was completely dark except for the light that entered the chamber from the lab through the large observation window.

Grey walked over and flipped a switch that turned on the lights within the chamber.

Grey looked through the window into the chamber. He could make out a figure huddling in the corner as if trying to escape the light.

"My God, that poor creature." Vallance said sympathetically.

What he saw both angered and disgusted him. Grey could feel the tears of outrage and sorrow beginning to burn his eyes.

He didn't see the same beautiful Trephyn whom had shown him so much kindness and care. What fur she had remaining was matted and blackened from a lack of bathing. Parts were shaved around sutured incisions. She looked as if she had been dissected and put back together.

"What are you doing in here?" A voice said behind them.

Grey turned around to recognize the doctor from the lab that had locked him in the chamber with Nicia.

"You!" Grey and the doctor said simultaneously.

The doctor made an attempt to retreat into the office he had come from but was prevented as Sanborne quickly seized the doctor's arm and pulled him back into the lab.

"You animal!" Sanborne spat as he slammed the doctor up against the glass window of the chamber. "What have you done?"

The doctor's eyes went wide with fear as he flattened himself against the wall in an attempt to put as much distance between Sanborne and himself as possible.

"I should kill you where you stand." Grey said, taking a step back and pressing his pistol between the doctors eyebrows from arm's length. "Even a stunner can kill at this range. It'll fry every synapse of your nervous system."

Grey let the charge build in the weapon as he stared directly into the doctor's eyes.

A bead of sweat rolled down along the doctors forehead, coming to rest against the muzzle of the weapon as he looked fearfully into Sanborne's eyes and started to beg.

"Please, I have a family."

Grey growled coldly as he nodded his head toward the figure in the chamber.

"So does she."

Vallance watched silently, unsure if she should interfere.

As the whine of the charging weapon reached its apex, Grey changed his aim past the doctor's head and fired into the glass window.

The doctor slid down the wall clutching his ear as the broken remnants of the window fell upon him.

"The only reason you're alive is because I need you to deliver a message to Marx." Grey took aim at the doctor again. "You tell him he doesn't get a third chance." Grey added before firing.

The doctor's stunned form slumped to the ground.

Grey turned to face Vallance as he produced a small device about the size of a cigarette lighter.

"You wanted an explanation? Just stand back and learn." He said as he pressed a button on the device, signaling Nersal it was time to go.

He tossed the small transmitter on the Doctors body and placed the pistol in his jacket before climbing through the shattered window. At the sound of his approaching footsteps in the broken glass, the shivering, pitiful figure withdrew further in the corner without ever looking up.

Grey kneeled beside the form and gently reached out to touch her reassuringly.

"It's ok. You're safe now." Grey said in a soft, soothing tone as he gathered her in his arms and lifted her frail body.

She felt so light in his arms. He wondered how long it had been since she had eaten anything substantial.

Grey carried Sheral back through the window and set her down on a padded table. He tenderly stroked the side of her cheek below her ear.

"Sheral, can you hear me?"

Grey was beginning to worry about Sheral's lack of cognizance. His eyes began to water as he thought about all suffering she must have endured.

"You know it?" Vallance asked.

"Her." Grey corrected as he looked up at Vallance. "I know her quite well."

Grey began speaking softly to Sheral in Synacian in hopes of getting a response. "Sheral. Let's get you home. Geheran and Nicia are waiting for you."

Vallance looked at Sanborne curiously as he spoke in the alien language.

"Who are you? What is that creature?"

"She's an ambassador from another planet. I had the honor of meeting her mate several years ago when they were surveying the planet. They saved my life."

Sheral began to stir. She turned her head to look up at him from under a heavily bruised and swollen brow.

"Greyson?" She asked in a weak, shaky voice as her senses began to come back to her.

Vallance stood gawking at them. "Oh my God, it — she, can talk."

Grey helped Sheral sit up.

"Sheral, can you walk?"

Sheral tried to force a smile through her bruised features.

"Out of here, definitely."

"Ok, let's go. Lean on me."

Sheral looked toward Vallance.

"Who is that?"

"Her name is Stephanie Vallance. She works in this building."

Grey could feel the low rumbling of a growl forming in Sheral's throat.

"It's ok, she didn't have anything to do with the people the held you."

Sheral became calmer, but continued watching Vallance closely as they headed down the hall to the elevator.

Inside the elevator, Vallance felt nervous as the creature stared at her. She moved to the side, positioning herself so that Sanborne was between her and the creature.

Sheral moved closer to Vallance.

"I remember you. You argued with the ones holding me. You told them to treat me better."

Vallance looked at Sheral, their eyes meeting. Vallance remembered entering the secured area, seeing the creature in front of her and the awful way it was being mistreated. Then the argument she had with Marx after he came into the lab and found her. He had dismissed what she saw as necessary testing in order to determine the subject's strengths. Then he threatened her, and she caved in.

"Did they?"

"No."

Vallance looked away, unable to continue looking Sheral in the eyes, ashamed for not standing up to Marx.

Sheral reached up, placing a hand on Vallance's shoulder.

"Thank you. For trying."

Vallance looked at Sheral, surprised that absolution could come so easy.

As the elevator arrived at the lobby, Grey checked before helping Sheral toward the exit.

As they emerged from the building, Vallance came to an immediate halt as she stared at the dark triangular ship hovering less than one hundred yards in front of them.

"Oh my God."

Grey looked toward the awe struck woman.

"If anyone asks, tell them I forced you to do everything."

"What?" Vallance asked, turning towards Sanborne, only to find him pointing the pistol at her.

"We truely appreciate your help. Thank you." Grey fired at Vallance on the lowest setting. It wasn't much, but he could at least spare her the nauseating affects of the stunner's higher levels. After all, she had helped them.

Sheral stopped walking to catch her breath. "Should you have done that?"

"It'll be easier for her this way. I'm already wanted for treason. I don't want to put anyone else through that."

Grey picked Sheral up in a fireman's carry and hurried off to the transport. Climbing up through the open hatch, Grey set Sheral down gently and went back to the hatch.

Grey hit the controls starting the door to cycle closed. "We're in."

Sheral gave Grey a worried look when he turned away from the hatch. "Is it because you stayed so long on Synac? Did your government believe your story?"

Grey noticed her concerned expression and smiled warmly. Even in her battered condition she cared for others more than herself.

"No, it's nothing to do with that. I'm fine, Sheral. Don't be so worried."

Grey picked Sheral up again. "Now, lets get you in the autodoc."

Sheral continued to demand, unsatisfied with his answer. "What happened then? I know you would never do anything dishonorable."

Sheral gave Grey a puzzled look as he began to laugh.

Grey carried her over toward the autodoc chamber. "You really should be concerned with getting better. You're going home. No more worries."

"Greyson!" Sheral said sternly.

Grey set Sheral down in the autodoc. "Well, if you must know, it all started with a chance meeting with a pretty little Trephyn named Nicia, who turned out to be a whole lot of trouble, but worth every minute of it."

Grey watched Sheral begin to grin, then smile. He smiled in return. "There ya go." Grey gave Sheral a light kiss on her forehead. "Now, rest."

Grey shut the cover on the chamber. He watched as Sheral fell unconscious almost instantly as the medical unit activated.

"Sir, this is the source of the signal."

Marx walked up behind the soldier carrying the tracking equipment and looked down at the source.

He reached down and slapped the man laying on the floor.

"You fool! Wake up."

The doctor sat up quickly and backed away against the wall.

Marx slapped him again.

"What happened here? Where is the specimen?"

"It was Sanborne. He took it."

"Sanborne is dead. I saw him die.

Marx reached into his jacket, pulling out a handgun and pointing it at the doctor.

"Wait! He told me to tell you something."

"What?"

"He said to tell you, you don't get a third chance."

Marx looked over the sights of his gun at the doctor, anger warping his calm, cold expression as his finger tightened on the trigger.

"Your usefulness is over."

Grey spent four sleepless nights in his cell. He wondered if Marx would make a final attempt on his life. Every sound brought him to alertness, not out of fear but a readiness to fight to complete the mission he accepted.

The trial with the board of inquiry was less than two hours away. Grey was as ready as he could be, although he was not optimistic. He wondered if John had been able to deliver his proof— the communications device Geheran had given him— into the hands of the president. Grey knew, without that proof there would be no chance of convincing the board of his innocence.

Under the new National Secrets Order the president along with the Director of the NSA and the Supreme Court Justice were required to attend trials for treason.

At least he knew the hearing would go quickly. The charges would be listed against him, witnesses brought forth and a final statement. The judges would then provide the final verdict, swiftly and absolute with no appeals. The best he could hope for was life imprisonment. At the worst, a death sentence.

It wasn't much consolation, but Grey knew that if he failed, Geheran would find another way to make his offer. Though, Grey knew that if he couldn't deliver the alliance proposals, he had to lay a foundation for the arrival of someone who would. Most likely Geheran would choose Nicia or rather, Nicia would make him choose her. Grey wanted to make sure she would get to deliver that message safely.

The guards ushered Grey in the courtroom, seating him with his legal counsel.

President Oakley, along with her entourage of advisors were seated off to the side. The Director Chamers of the NSA also accompanied the president while the Supreme Court Justice presided over the proceedings. Bodyguards and security were scattered around the perimeter of the room.

It wasn't exactly the forum Grey had wanted to speak to the president, but it would do.

The pretrial went quickly. Grey had listened to the charges brought against him. Two counts of theft of classified biological materials. One count of collaboration with terrorists intent on using biological weapons against the United States. Twelve counts of destruction of government property.

Grey sat patiently alongside his counsel as one by one the prosecution brought it's witnesses into the courtroom.

Grey recognized some of the security personnel from the CDC while others were unfamiliar and probably planted by Marx. He listened patiently as each testified against him.

Grey refused to allow them to be cross examined and watched as each was led from the courtroom. It was pointless to question them. They were all in Marx's employ and wouldn't provide anything helpful to his case.

The only exception was Vallance. She looked nervous. Grey figured Marx would have already threatened her to the point of total compliance. She knew part of the truth, and the determined look in her eyes told him that she would answer any question he asked. His conscience wouldn't let him endanger her.

"Miss Vallance, I just wanted to say I was sorry for what I put you through. I hope you can forgive me and understand why I had to."

Vallance gave a brief, puzzled smile. "Yes." Her smile faded quickly as she looked nervously toward Marx.

"No further questions." Grey took a seat.

Vallance gave him a questioning look as she was escorted from the courtroom. She couldn't understand why Sanborne hadn't attempted to question her.

As she walked down the isle toward the exit, a white haired woman caught her eye. Vallance thought the woman looked too young to have such white hair. Their eyes met. The woman's eyes seemed familiar, but she didn't recognize the woman who smiled and nodded her head in a way that suggested they had met before.

The guard urged Vallance to continue walking as they exited the room.

The Supreme Court justice shook his head in disbelief. "Mr. Sanborne, do you have anything to offer in your defense? Why have you refused to cross examine any of the witnesses?"

Grey stood to address the board. "Your honors," Grey motioned to his counsel. "What hope do I have for a simple counselor to extract the truth from men who have been trained to resist interrogation in the hands of an enemy? The actual reason for this trial is not the charges that have been brought against me. Yet, I hesitate to reveal the actual reason because the story I have to tell is unbelievable without proof. I cannot contest their half truths or their lies without proof. However, since I have spent little time cross-examining the witnesses, I would like to ask for that time to use for my final statement."

"Mr. Sanborne that would be highly irregular. You have been given..."

"Granted." Interrupted the president as she turned toward the justice. "The charges brought against him are very serious. If there is reason behind his actions, I would like to hear his explanation."

"Thank you, Madam President." Grey took a seat, his confidence boosted by the president's words.

"If there are no further witnesses, perhaps we can proceed with the statements."

The opposing counsel stood. "The prosecution has no additional witnesses."

"Mr. Sanborne, would you please deliver your statement?"

"I have held many positions in service to our government. Many of them revolved around the protection of our most secret projects. Secrets that were protected at great cost." Grey looked toward Marx. "Sometimes too great."

Marx sat calmly, looking at Grey with a smug expression.

Grey told his tale starting from the Colombia mission four years prior. This time he told what actually happened, detailing his encounter with Geheran in the jungle, the explosion, their imprisonment and their escape. He told the board about the invitation to go to Synac and why he initially accepted. Grey related what he learned of the Trephi and the friendships he had made before his eventual return to Earth.

When he began recounting the recent events of the last few weeks, most of the snickering and murmuring had ceased, either from exhaustion or fascination.

He explained how he had recognized the woman at the presidents speech and the events that led to her capture and his imprisonment with her. He told about his revelation about Marx and the failed Colombia mission.

Marx's expression changed to a look of deep hatred as he sat motionless listening to Grey tell his story.

The president listened intently to the details of their escape and as Grey explained how Marx's actions led him to believe he had another Trephyn held captive. Even those in the room who were skeptical of Grey's story, their faces expressed their disgust as he described in vivid detail the conditions he had found Sheral held captive.

After finally explaining his decision to turn himself into his superiors he sat back down, relieved to have been allowed to finish his story. Grey was uncertain of what the outcome would be for himself, but at least he knew that whoever Geheran chose to contact the president would have a better chance of relaying his proposal.

The opposing counsel stood to address the board. "Your honors, it is well known that the president shares great hopes for our space program. Mr. Sanborne is merely playing on the romantic ideals of space travel to gain sympathy." The counselor turned to Grey. "Do you have anything that can back up this fantasy?"

Grey remained silent for a moment collecting his thoughts. He glanced over toward Marx.

He was about to respond to the question when he noticed a man seated behind Marx. The man wasn't very conspicuous. His clothing was similar to the others in the court. What caught his attention was the man's eyes. They were amber.

The man gave a slight nod as Grey's eyes met with his own.

Grey stared at the man in disbelief. No human had eyes like that, and the only Trephyn he knew with eyes that color was Nersal.

"Mr. Sanborne."

Grey wondered how he could have possibly made it into the courtroom.

"Mr. Sanborne." The judge called out again, louder than before.

Grey snapped his attention back to the judge. "Yes your honor."

"Mr. Sanborne, you have provided not a shred of evidence to prove your innocence. Unless you can produce any further proof or testimony that can contradict these charges against you, this court will give a verdict of guilty. Do you have anything to offer to collaborate your story?"

"He has me."

Heads turned to see the source of the voice, a young woman with gray streaked hair standing in the back of the room.

Grey recognized the voice as he turned to see a familiar green eyed woman looking towards him. He smiled widely as their eyes met. He could see she was angry, but he knew the anger was not directed at him. She still smiled in return.

Someone gently clearing their throat drew Grey's attention to the other side of the courtroom where he noticed two other spectators. A woman with pure snow white hair sat closely to a distinguished looking gray haired man. Both looked at him and gave a warm smile.

"And you are?" asked the justice as the woman began walking towards the front of the room.

Nicia ignored the judge, her attention focused on Marx as she made her way to the front of the room.

Marx watched the woman as she walked past. She seemed familiar. As her eyes met his, he felt he had seen that same look of resentment before. Even her clothing seemed familiar. His eyes widened as he realized the woman wore the same clothing as that taken from the creature he had captured.

Marx shifted in his seat, preparing to stand when a hand rested on his shoulder from behind.

"Please," growled Nersal as he held Marx's shoulder and pressed a small stunner into his ribs, "give me a reason."

Marx turned his head to look at his assailant. A chill moved down his spine as he looked into a pair of inhuman amber eyes.

The president's bodyguards moved forward as Nicia approached the president's seat.

"Gun!" shouted one of the bodyguards at the sight of Nersal and Marx.

Grey began to fear the situation was getting out of control.

Nicia ignored the commotion behind her and moved closer toward the president. She looked directly into the eyes of the president, past the bodyguards attempting to shield their leader.

"Madam President, there is no reason to subject Colonel Sanborne to any further questioning. You have already received the evidence you require. There is no honor in continuing this proceeding."

President Oakley looked back at Nicia and the anger that flashed in her eyes.

"Nersal, stand down." Nicia ordered without breaking eye contact with the president. "The device is for personal protection. It only stuns. With the past history of dealing with your people, would you have done any less if you were in our position."

After a momentary pause, Nersal reluctantly released Marx. "Yes Emissary."

President Oakley did not appreciate this woman's tone of voice, though she was correct. The communications device delivered to her did confirm Sanborne's story.

"You have a point." President Oakley said with a nod.

At first, she had been skeptical after reading Sanborne's note that accompanied it. Even after the device was activated, when the projection of the wolfish looking creature introduced himself as Geheran, there was still doubt that it wasn't a hoax. Once the origin of the signal was verified not to have been transmitted from anywhere on Earth or an orbiting satellite, she quickly realized the implications. Three instances where an extraterrestrial ambassador is assaulted or imprisoned was not a way to initiate a peaceful relationship.

President Oakley addressed the room. "Everyone, please. Return to where you were."

Grey was surprised by Nicia's action and confused by what was happening. Obviously, John had been able to deliver his package, but what happened after remained a mystery.

Everyone grew silent as the president stood to speak.

"I find it disturbing, that one man may take it upon himself to make a decision that can affect so many. To operate in secrecy, to withhold information potentially vital to the security of our nation."

Marx sat back in a relaxed fashion, a smile beginning to form on his face as the president addressed the room.

"Colonel Sanborne, please forgive the manner in which these proceedings have been conducted. We wished only to hear both sides of this situation. There are still decisions to be made regarding your conduct. However, the charges presented for your actions in the past few weeks are dismissed."

Grey grinned in relief, both at being cleared of the charges and to be addressed by his rank again.

Marx's expression went blank, then his anger began to show. "You can't do that! Sanborne is a risk to National Security."

President Oakley stared directly at Marx. "Your actions have caused a great deal of trouble. You have risked more than the security of our own nation, you have risked the security, perhaps even the existance, of our entire planet and race."

The president turned to one of the security personnel. "Place Marx under arrest until we can properly and fully investigate his actions."

Marx struggled against the guard until a second came to assist the first in escorting Marx from the room.

President Oakley turned to address the gray-haired woman. "The device Colonel Sanborne had delivered to me has allowed me to speak at some length with the Trephyn named Geheran. He said he would send representatives to discuss an alliance. We now know how Colonel Sanborne became involved with these beings. May I ask how you and your associates become involved with the Trephi?"

Grey began to chuckle as the president mistook Nicia as human.

The president looked at Grey. "Colonel Sanborne?"

Grey stood.

"I'm sorry, Madam President. Allow me to introduce these—representatives."

All the Trephi stood in unison and began approaching the front of the room.

Grey moved to stand beside Nicia. He could tell by her smile that she was restraining herself from embracing him, an urge he was trying hard to suppress as well. He reached down to take her hand, holding it as he deactivated her holoweb. He savored the brief contact until the image faded and his beautiful gray furred Trephyn stood next to him.

The president had watched as Grey keyed something on the woman's wrist. To her surprise, the air around the woman seemed to flash, revealing a gray furred creature similar to the one she had communicated with.

"Madam President, this is Emissary Nicia, the Trephyn that I was held captive with."

Nicia gave a short bow before offering her hand. "Madam President."

The President shook Nicia's hand. "Welcome Emissary, my apologies for your treatment while you were first here. Will you be the representative that we primarily deal with?"

"I think Grey should finish with the introductions first. Then we can discuss the matters of representation."

President Oakley noticed the casual way Nicia referred to Sanborne. "Very well. Colonel Sanborne, please continue."

Grey then moved to the amber eyed man who already was moving to disable his holoweb. The image disappeared revealing white tinged brown and black pelt of the amber eyed Trephyn.

"This is Nersal, one of the pilots who brought me back this time. He is also a witness to Marx's shooting of the Trephyn Emissary Sheral."

Nersal nodded respectfully.

Grey smiled as he moved toward the white haired woman. She keyed the controls on her wrist revealing a snow white Trephyn. He could see her wounds had healed, though it was clear where they had been. Her fur would take time to grow back before all traces of her injuries would be gone.

"This is Emissary Sheral. You already know her story."

The president looked at the evidence of the injuries that the Trephyn had received. She wondered if their chance at a peaceful existence with the Trephi had been ruined.

"Emissary Sheral, I am truly sorry for the suffering you have endured at the hands of some of our people. I hope that you will accept my apology for what has happened to you."

Sheral cocked her head sideways. "Thank you, but what has passed, has passed. Do not dwell on it any further. All we ask is that the one responsible be subjected to your system of justice for his crimes."

"He will. You have my word."

The final figure moved forward as he revealed himself. "Thank you. Your word is more than enough assurance."

Grey moved beside Geheran as he deactivated his holoweb.

"And I believe you have already spoken with Emissary Geheran."

"A pleasure to meet with you in person, President Oakley."

"I have to admit; to have all of you here comes as a surprise. I was only expecting one ambassador. Do you usually send this many ambassadors to negotiate?"

"No, usually one or two Trephi of Emissarial rank handle first contact," Sheral said as she turned to smile at Grey. "This instance is different in that Greyson has touched our lives, several times. He has saved the lives of my daughter and my lifemate as well as my own. He has earned the respect of many of our people. We would not abandon him when his life is threatened."

Again, the president noticed how informally they referred to Sanborne,

"How far would you have gone to protect him?" asked the NSA director.

Grey sucked his breath in sharply at the directors rude comment. "Sheral, please don't take offense to that."

"I do not."

Sheral turned to the director. "As far as necessary. Wouldn't you do whatever is necessary to protect an innocent man?"

Geheran cleared his throat with a soft growl and hum. "We do not wish to rush your decision, but circumstances back home require us to conclude these matters quickly. For that, I apologize."

"I understand your urgency. I would like to have a brief discussion with my advisors, and I would like to meet with Colonel Sanborne privately for a moment."

"Of course," Geheran said with a polite nod.

"Colonel Sanborne, would you please follow me?"

Grey stood and followed the president as she left the room.

They entered a small office that held a large conference table.

"Please sit, Colonel Sanborne."

President Oakley seated herself and waited for Grey.

Grey took a seat in front of her. "What can I do for you?"

"Colonel Sanborne, I must admit; this is the most difficult decision of my career. Emissary Geheran has expressed his concerns about our future. It seems that we are being forced to join one alliance to receive protection from another. How can I be certain his information can be trusted?"

"You mean, can he and the Trephi be trusted?"

The president seemed slightly embarrassed that Grey could see her doubts.

"Yes, though I didn't want to sound so suspicious."

"I understand." Grey said sympathetically. "By nature, Trephi are exceedingly honest. If they dislike you, you will know it without any deception or pretense. If they want or need something, they will tell you. They don't need to resort to subterfuge or deception." Grey paused to let the president consider what he had said. "Myself, I completely trust any of the Trephi back in the room. I trust them in both their words and their actions. For example, take the pilot, Nersal. He has a general dislike of humans because of what he has witnessed. I certainly know he does not trust us. Yet, if I were to ask him any question, I would trust him to, at the least, be honest with me."

"What troubles me is that the only information I have to weigh my decision is presented by yourself. How am I to know whether your information is reliable? I need to be certain."

"You can't know, not without experiencing what I have. I've lived freely with them for over a year. I was allowed to go anywhere I wanted and at any time. During that time, I learned as much as I could about them. There was never any attempt at keeping information from me. Any question I had ever asked was answered in detail, and I believe truthfully."

They sat silently. The president contemplating the decision she needed to make while Grey wondered what he could say to assure her the Trephi could be trusted.

"Madam President, the best advice I can give is for you to forget everything I have said. Forget everything you have learned in the past few days."

President Oakley gave Grey a surprised look.

"What I'm trying to say is; Make your decision without any thought to what I have told you. After all, had this incident not occurred, Earth would have been invited into the alliance at some point. You would have had to make this decision without any prior knowledge. Trust your own feelings. You've spoken with Geheran. You should have developed some opinion of him."

The president thought for a moment. "You're right. Thank you. Would you please tell my advisors I am ready to meet with them."

"Of course, Madam President."

Everyone in the room watched as Grey returned.

"The president is ready to speak with you." Grey said to the group of advisors.

All the Trephi were seated together. After the advisors left the room, Grey walked over and sat beside Geheran.

"Is everything well? What did she say?"

"She worries about making the right decision."

"Your President does not trust our intentions," said Geheran.

Grey nodded sadly.

Geheran tried to reassure Grey. "Don't worry, it's something we are used to. Despite the final decision, you have my word I will do whatever is within my power to keep my promise to you."

"Thank you." Grey said as he looked across the faces of his Trephi companions. He smiled as he looked toward Nicia, and she smiled in return. They held each other in their eyes.

Sheral gave Grey a knowing look that caused his face to flush. She smiled warmly at Grey, satisfied with the knowledge that her daughter couldn't have been in better hands.

The President and her advisors returned. Their faces displaying varied expressions.

"Emissary Geheran, we have come to a decision on your offer. We cannot speak for the other governments on our world. Your offer will have to be presented to them. However, we can give you our response now."

Geheran stood as the president approached. The other Trephi stood behind him.

"I am pleased to tell you we accept your offer," President Oakley said as she offered her hand, "and hope it will lead to a mutually beneficial peace between our peoples."

Geheran gladly accepted her hand, "I'm certain our species will enjoy many new discoveries together. We welcome you to the alliance and hope we will be able to welcome the other nations of Earth as well."

President Oakley smiled.

"Thank you Emissary Geheran."

The president's smile faltered as she turned to Grey.

"Colonel Sanborne, I regret the decision that has been made concerning your conduct at the time of your mission in Colombia. Director Chamers, would you please give the board's decision."

Chamers stood, clearing his throat. "Mr. Sanborne, because of the information you withheld after your mission in Colombia, your reliability is in question. It has been decided that the promotion you received at that time is to be rescinded. Your position in the secret service is immediately terminated, and you will be denied any further government positions. Because you have managed to help avoid a serious diplomatic misunderstanding with the Trephi, President Oakley has convinced us to forgo any further hearings regarding these matters. You will receive an honorable discharge from service, allowing you to keep the benefits you had received at your former rank."

Grey remained motionless as he listened to the verdict. He had hoped for total dismissal of the charges, but he could understand their concerns. He did provide false information about the events after the Colombia mission. Grey knew he was pretty lucky, the verdict could have been worse.

The Trephi gave confused looks between themselves.

Nicia let out a sound of disgust that drew all eyes to her. "There is no honor in that decision. Grey has performed more than his duty to your nation and your world. You shame him and hope to ease your consciences by calling it honorable."

Nicia turned her back to the board members and strided angrily toward the exit, her holoweb activating before leaving the room.

"Please excuse her. She is young and acting on the feelings we are all experiencing," Sheral said, masking her own anger with a pleasant tone.

Geheran turned toward the president. "President Oakley, I feel responsible for all that has happened to Grey. Is it possible this verdict may be reversed?"

"I'm sorry, no. If it were within my power, I would. However, this decision is made by committee."

"Excuse me," Chamers interrupted, "there are some questions we would like to discuss with the Trephi. Mr. Sanborne, you are dismissed."

Grey looked surprised to be discharged so insensitively. He stood and walked down the isle to the exit.

Geheran's eyes hardened. It was one thing to pass judgment on Grey for his actions, but to dismiss him so coldly did him more injustice than the verdict itself.

Geheran turned toward Grey with a pained expression. "Grey, I'm sorry. I never would have thought a simple error on my part could have caused so much trouble."

Grey paused to look Geheran. He could see Geheran's sincerity. Grey nodded before continuing down the isle and leaving the room.

Geheran watched Grey walk silently onward. Grey's nod had relieved him, but his expression lacked emotion. He had seen Grey with the same indifferent look before. The last time, Grey felt he had nothing left to live for and didn't care what would happen to him. This time, it told Geheran that Grey would be ok. After Grey left the room, Geheran turned back toward the president and her advisors.

"If you'll excuse us, we must relay our status to our government," Geheran said as he stood and motioned for the other Trephi to leave.

The room was suddenly silent. Geheran's agitation was clearly visible to everyone, causing confusion on how to continue. Chamers looked toward the president for guidance on how to proceed, but she was already raising to try to relieve the tension.

"Emissary Geheran, if we have...."

Geheran did not let her finish. "You may relay our offer to the other nations of your world. We will contact you for their decisions when we assign an emissary to deal with your governments."

"Please, we wish to apologize for anything we have done to offend...."

"We are not the ones that deserve an apology." Geheran said with a short bow. "Good day."

Everyone watched in silence, wondering if they had possibly ruined future relations with the Trephi, as the alien ambassadors left the room.

Grey walked out of the building. He could see Nicia sitting at the bottom of the steps, staring out into the courtyard.

"I'm sorry for how I reacted," she said with a worried look in her eyes. "I didn't cause you any more trouble, did I?"

"No. You did nothing wrong. Actually, I appreciate what you said." Grey leaned over to give her cheek a quick kiss, "Thank you."

Nicia smiled. "What will you do now, Grey-che?"

Grey smiled at Nicia's use of the Trephyn word—che. He knew it to be a term of endearment such as dear or love. "I don't know. I was about to retire from the service anyway. I have my home and no major debts. I'll probably consult for John's business. I suppose I could also return to Synac with you."

"I'd like that. I know you probably don't want to leave your home right away. Would you mind if I stayed with you until you decide?"

"I'd enjoy your company," Grey said as he hugged Nicia close, "I've missed you."

Nicia hugged back tightly. "I've missed you too. I was worried I wouldn't see you again."

"Since I'm out of a job, that leaves plenty of time for us to spend together, Nicia-che."

Nicia started backing away while giving Grey a playful look. "When do we get to start?"

Grey looked thoughtful as he rubbed his chin and began to smile. He was about to give in to her playful challenge when he noticed Geheran leave the building with the others close behind. "Damn, I was going to say right now, but it looks like we have to wait a little while longer."

Nicia and Grey watched as Geheran headed towards them. "Well, that was a quick meeting."

The human image of Geheran looked indifferent, but his voice had a hint of disgust. "Nicia my child, you are wise beyond your years. We all should have walked out of there with you."

"What happened?" asked Nicia.

"I couldn't stand those humans any longer," said Geheran as he turned to Grey. "How could you accept the way they treated you?"

"I just don't care. Besides, I'm free and pardoned for what I had to do. I don't need rank to tell me my worth. My own sense of honor is appeased. I did what I thought was right and bottom line, the people I care about—all of you—are safe."

"Greyson," Sheral said tenderly. "Thank you. You are very special to us as well."

"So, how the hell did all of you get here anyway?" asked Grey.

"After your incident with the Klizul, Vulmeran and I took another transport to come after you and Nersal," said Geheran. "And somehow," Geheran added in mock anger, "Nicia managed to convince Dariena to bring her here and follow us."

Nicia grinned shamelessly.

Nersal moved to stand beside Geheran. "After we rescued Sheral, I met with Geheran's and Dariena's ships just as they entered normal space outside your solar system."

"It was also about the time your president made contact with the communications device I had given you."

"So, where are Meran and Dariena?"

"Your president arranged transportation at a secluded location. Vulmeran and Dariena dropped us off and returned to where you originally had Nersal wait, in the lake by your home. All three ships are there now."

"Grey, I'd like to ask a favor of you."

"Sure, Geheran. What do you need?"

"I will require Vulmeran to return me to Synac to speak with Sulan." Geheran moved closer to speak softly. "Would you allow the others to remain with you? Your home seems large enough, and the lake provides adequate concealment of their ships."

Grey though Geheran seemed uncharacteristically apprehensive. "You're worried about something."

"It would be convenient to have our emissaries available to speak with your president." Geheran glanced over toward Sheral and Nicia talking animatedly. "But, you are also correct. I do worry. Because of the Klizul, I've almost lost my mate and my daughter. I don't want that to happen again. I feel that they would be safer here with you. At least until we get final answers from the other nations of your world, and confront the Klizul."

"Geheran, you've welcomed me into your family. My home is yours."

"Thank you, my friend."

Grey nodded.

A black suburban pulled up in front of them, followed by a black limousine and another matching suburban.

"I see our transportation has arrived," said Geheran. "They will take us back to where we were dropped off. Vulmeran will drop the others off at your home, and then he and I will return to Synac."

"Good luck."

Geheran entered the limo. Sheral followed next, then Nersal.

Nicia ran up to Grey, hugging him fiercely. "Hurry home," she said with a smile. She broke the hug and got into the limo.

Grey watched as the motorcade drove off. He looked around wondering what to do next. It had been so long since his life was under his own control. He hailed a cab.

"Where to, sir?"

Grey told the cabby his address in the city. "I've got to start packing."

"Taking a vacation?" asked the cabby?

"Nope, moving to the mountains. I've had enough of the city," Grey said as he looked out the window at the buildings. A smile slowly formed on his face as he thought about the time he and Nicia would get to spend together. Finally, his future seemed bright and shining.