Geheran and Grey talked together while waiting in the basement for Nicia and Sheral. Grey had dressed in a modern-styled tuxedo while Geheran wore a SDF dress uniform. The soft black leathery fabric was trimmed with a silvery material that ran along the seams up to the high collars that rose to Geheran's cheeks. The three violet stripes of SDF commander were placed high on the collar to emphasise his rank, though Grey was certain Geheran would be a very prominent figure at the celebration even if he were the lowest in SDF ranks.

Grey's thoughts were interrupted as he noticed Geheran look past him and smile. He could easily see a mixture of admiration and affection in Geheran's expression. Grey turned to see Sheral approaching and smiled as well.

"What do you think?" Sheral asked as she turned slowly.

Grey studied Sheral as she modeled her new clothing for Geheran. She looked lovely as the soft folds of violet silk shimmered in the light. Grey noticed she picked a modest dress that hid the nearly furless spots where her wounds had been. She also seemed somewhat selfconscience; something he had never known her to be. He briefly wondered if her ordeal had weakened some of her confidence.

"I see where Nicia gets her beauty," Grey complimented. "You look lovelier than I can remember."

Geheran acknowledged her in Synacian using a phrase Grey didn't recognize. However, judging by Geheran's almost tearful gaze and Sheral's pleased expression, it must have been a great compliment.

"Thank you, Greyson," she said before moving to Geheran's side and nuzzling him.

"Hey, what about me?" Nicia teased as she entered the room.

Grey turned to see Nicia wearing a slightly daring black satin dress that reflected the ambient light off the soft pleats that clung to her shapely figure.

"Nicia," Grey said, awe struck. "You look magnificent!"

Nicia kissed Grey on the cheek. "And you look very distinguished."

"Where did you two get those clothes?"

Sheral smiled. "John was kind enough to take us to a store."

Grey grinned as he shook his head in disbelief. "I bet that was something to see, you two on a shopping spree."

Nicia and Sheral looked at each other as they chuckled at something shared between them.

Grey rolled his eyes. "I don't even want to know. We had better get going or we will be late," Grey suggested as he opened the door and held it for the lovely pair.

The transport arrived on time at the airfield. Geheran, Sheral, Nicia and Grey headed to the limousine and escort that awaited them. After a short ride, they arrived in an underground garage and were escorted from the vehicle to the reception hall.

All eyes were on them as Geheran and Sheral entered the room followed by Grey and Nicia. A round of applause welcomed them.

All the guests, at some point during the evening, made their way towards the Trephi to extend their greetings and get a chance to meet with a genuine being from another world.

Geheran and Sheral enjoyed greeting everyone. Nicia forced a pleasant expression to cover her concern for Grey. She could tell that the evening was passing too slowly for him.

Later in the evening, President Oakley approached Grey as he stood off to the side to avoid some of the attention. "Mr. Sanborne," she said pleasantly.

"Madam President," Grey replied.

"Would you mind if we spoke privately?" President Oakley asked, almost whispering.

Grey got the impression President Oakley was speaking unofficially.

"Business?" Grey asked.

"Some, but I do have a few questions to satisfy my personal curiosities," Oakley smiled. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all. And, if we're speaking casually, please call me Grey."

"Very well then, call me Lauren." President Oakley said as she motioned for Grey to walk with her.

"I can't imagine what it must be like, to have traveled where no human has and seen things no one has seen must be an awesome feeling."

"Right now, I'm more surprised to be here. Few people get to speak so casually with the president." Grey chuckled to himself. "I've had a few jaw dropping experiences while getting to know my Trephyn friends."

Lauren smiled at Grey's amusement.

"Speaking of friendships," Lauren said hesitantly. "I've noticed your relationship with Emissary Nicia is." she paused.

"Intimate." Grey offered. "Does that surprise you?"

"Not entirely. Especially not after seeing the way she regarded you at your trial," President Oakley smiled. "It is quite evident there is a chemistry between you."

Grey smiled as he looked down at the floor for a moment. "I have to admit; I was surprised when I realized how I felt about Nicia. I never even believed in aliens, until I met Geheran, much less thought I'd have so many as friends and even fall in love with one."

"I'm sure it must have been hard to come to terms with your feelings."

"Actually, it wasn't hard at all. I suppose it's because they're very much like us."

President Oakley looked surprised. "Really?"

"You weren't expecting the Hollywood version of how aliens should act, were you?" Grey grinned. "Always out to either destroy or enslave mankind."

President Oakley laughed. "I suppose in a way. As an optimist, I would hope nothing bad, but they are alien to us. I would expect they do many things we would find strange."

"I think you'll be disappointed." Grey smiled. "Their technology may be more advanced but as beings, they have all the same emotions and concerns that we do. Just like us, they go about their daily jobs. Though their workday isn't as regimented as ours. Their work time is interspersed with their personal time to the point it's hard to tell whether they are working or playing around."

"Sounds ideal."

"Generally it is. Though, the SDF has a slightly riskier lifestyle then the civilian population. Even with their technology, space is a harsh environment to work and live in. But, when they are off duty, they have fun with their families and friends."

"To work and live in space, you say that like it's nothing. Yet hearing those words makes me feel small, knowing we aren't alone anymore."

Grey nodded. "There is a bigger picture to take into consideration now. From a universal perspective, we're a very fragile species. The old concerns of the past are nothing compared to what we have to be concerned with."

President Oakley took a more serious tone. "Oh that reminds me. Chamers did have one concern about this exchange program between Earth and Synac."

"What is it?"

"Well, Chamers went over all of the recommended candidates' files. He became a bit uneasy after reading through the file on General Dalton. Most of his records are off limits to anybody with the exception of the highest military officials, the cabinet and myself. Additionally, his last psychological evaluations before he was discharged were upsetting to say the least. He's a wild card, a possible security risk and, frankly, the few people who do know his full history are not sure if he can be trusted."

"Have you ever met him?"

"No." Oakley paused. "But I also had an opportunity to look over his files myself, and I must say I do have a few reservations myself about him as a possible exchange candidate."

"Well, I do trust him, and as for being a security risk, he's only a risk if he has information an enemy would want. Since I know the Trephi have no interest in his past campaigns, and I hope you do not consider them a potential enemy. I don't see a reason why he shouldn't be allowed to come." Grey paused, looked at Oakley and spoke in a respectful but firm tone. "He has spent many years working toward discovering alien life. I think he deserves this opportunity."

"As I said he is a wild card, and we are more afraid that he may in his current state do something stupid to hurt our relations with the Trephi."

Grey laughed at the idea. "Oh, you mean something like shooting and torturing one of the emissaries." Grey snipped. "If the emissaries have managed to overlook that, I doubt that he could do much worse."

"Just keep an eye on him. Because, trust me, he has done much worse."

Grey nodded. "While we're on the subject, do you have any problems with my recommendation for Ms. Vallance to head the research facility that will be the cover for the Trephi embassy?"

"No. Not at all."

"Good." Grey relaxed a bit. "So, when are you going to visit Synac?"

"I don't know. I would need an acceptable cover story for my absence, and those are becoming harder and harder to come by these days. "

"Well, if you can't before your term is up, I'll be certain to leave an open invitation for you."

Oakley smiled. "Thank you."

A man approached president Oakley and whispered in her ear.

Oakley turned to Grey. "I'm sorry, but I have to cut our discussion short.

Grey wandered back over and took his seat between Sheral and Nicia. Nicia smiled warmly and started some idle conversation about the banquet.

A few moments later, President Oakley approached the emissaries at their table; her face revealing troubled thoughts.

"I'm afraid I have just received some bad news." Oakley said apprehensively. "I feel I owe it to you to keep you informed of what is happening. Marx has escaped."

Sheral's expression lost any sign of the enjoyment she had earlier in the evening. Geheran stiffened as he tried to contain his outrage, as did Grey.

"I promise you, every effort will be made to apprehend him and see that held accountable for what he has done."

"I'm sorry." Sheral said weakly as she stood. "If you'll excuse me."

Grey nudged Nicia to follow Sheral, though Nicia already was already moving to her mother's side.

"I think we will be leaving now." Geheran said, turning to Oakley. "See that you recapture Marx."

Geheran followed out after his mate and daughter.

"I was afraid of something like this," Oakley said to Grey.

Grey responded in a flat tone. "You should know one thing. If Marx is foolish enough to come near any of the Trephi, he will be fair game."

Oakley seemed to nod in understanding.

"Please express an apology to everyone from the Trephi for leaving abruptly. They did find the evening quite enjoyable."

"General, there is someone here to see you," announced the intercom on Kyle's desk. "Who is it?"

"A Mr. Greyson Sanborne," replied the General's assistant.

"Send him in!" Kyle exclaimed, heaving himself up from his chair and walked toward office door. The door was already opening as Kyle neared. Grey stepped into the room and offered a smile along with a loose, informal salute.

"General," Grey said, finishing the salute and offering his hand to Kyle.

Kyle took Grey's hand firmly. "It's good to see you, Grey."

Grey smiled. "You too, sir."

"It's been a long time since we've seen each other."

Grey nodded in agreement.

"I heard you were demoted to Lieutenant and discharged from the service, but I couldn't find out why. How have you been?" Kyle asked, as he gestured Grey toward the chair in front of his desk.

"Good," Grey said as he seated himself. "Actually, better than ever."

"I'm glad. I know it hasn't been easy for you since Colombia. It's never easy loosing a loved one." Kyle spoke with sympathy and his own personal insight.

"Thanks," Grey replied. "I'm glad Colombia is finally behind me."

Kyle grinned, pleased at seeing Grey in such good spirits. "What have you been doing with yourself? I know your trial forced you to leave the secret service."

"I've been enjoying myself, spending time with friends and a new special lady in my life." Grey grinned.

"Then what, may I ask, brings you here?" Kyle asked in a friendly but inquisitive tone.

Grey looked around the room. "So, this is where you went after AFCO."

"It's not much, but it allows me access to information for my own projects. "

"Keeping the old skills sharp." Grey gave Kyle a knowing smile. "How would you like a chance to hone those skills, razor sharp?"

Kyle looked at Grey; knowing there was something more to his offer.

"You're looking out for me now. Is that it?"

"I owe you. You brought me into Ops. Without your training, I probably wouldn't have survived. Give me a chance to give you something back." Grey leaned closer and spoke in a softer voice. "I've requested you for a type of officer exchange program. I can't give you any more details than that at this time. I want you to accept."

"Grey, I don't have the desire to travel anymore."

"It's the chance of a lifetime. I know you'll enjoy this assignment, both professionally and on a personal level."

Kyle was intrigued by what Grey was saying. Actually, the way Grey had spoken it peaked his curiosity more than anything. He examined Grey thoughtfully. Kyle thought he saw a change in Grey, but couldn't quite put his finger on what it might be. Grey had always been confident, but perhaps now, a little more so. The way Grey said he had requested him made Kyle think that Grey could possibly still have some unofficial position in the government. That would explain the lack of details surrounding his discharge.

"Why do I get the feeling you're holding something back?"

"Because I am." Grey admitted openly with a wide grin. "Listen. I've got to get going. But, if you want to find out, you'll have to accept and come to my place this weekend."

Grey walked into the lobby and up to the receptionist.

"Can I help you?" asked the young woman in a friendly manner.

Grey smiled pleasantly. "Yes. I'd like to see Stephanie Vallance. Please tell her Grey Sanborne is here, unarmed, and would like a moment of her time."

The receptionist gave him an odd look before placing the call. To Grey's surprise, she even passed on the joke about being unarmed. After a moment the receptionist hung up the phone.

"She'll see you now."

Grey nodded and headed towards Vallance's office.

"Mr. Sanborne. This is a surprise. I didn't think I would ever see you again after your trial."

"Well, everything has turned out just fine."

Vallance spoke softly. "And your friend?"

Grey smiled, knowing Vallance was referring to Sheral. "She's well."

Vallance smiled. "It's a good thing you came to see me today. After this weekend, I won't be here anymore."

"Oh? They're not letting you go because of what happened, are they?"

"No. Nothing like that. I gave my resignation right after your trial. I've decided that I can't, in good conscience, work here anymore."

"I see."

"So, what brings you here, Mr. Sanborne?"

"Good timing, apparently." Grey smiled. "I come with a job offer."

"A job doing what?"

"How does—head of your own astronomical research facility—sound?"

"Interesting, but I've worked with the government enough times to know there must be a catch."

"Well, there is more than meets the eye, but there are no catches." Grey smiled. "The facility will do legitimate research, however, it is also a front for the Trephyn embassy."

"Trephyn? Embassy?"

Grey chuckled. "My friend, Sheral."

Vallance's eyes widened as she recognized the name. "You're telling me we have developed relations with another species?"

Grey nodded. "Yes. But at this time, it is being kept a secret from the public. The facility will act as a point of exchange. Scientists there will have the opportunity to consult with Trephyn scientists. Cultural information will be exchanged between our anthropologists and theirs. The Trephyn emissaries will also be quartered there."

Vallance was speechless. She stared at Grey in amazement. "Why me?"

"Payback, for being a woman of high integrity. I know you would have testified against Marx if I questioned you, despite the threats I'm certain he probably made."

"Thank you." Vallance said with an excited smile. "When do I start?"

"Not for several months. The facility hasn't even broken ground yet."

Vallance looked disappointed.

"Don't worry, someone will contact you with the official offer soon enough. Meanwhile, how about I come back in two hours and buy you lunch so we can discuss the specifics."

Vallance grabbed her coat and turned to Grey smiling brightly. "How about now? It's not as if I'm going to get fired."

"Kyle, I had a feeling you'd show up," Grey smiled as he opened the door and invited him in.

"Great place you have here. Nice and secluded."

"Thanks. I'll give you a quick tour then you can meet the others."

Kyle followed Grey through the cabin. "A lot bigger than it looks."

"It's a bit cramped right now with seven other guests coming and going."

"Running a hotel here?" Kyle joked.

"Sometimes it feels like it." Grey said as a holosuited Nicia walked in.

"And here's my number one boarder." Grey said as he slipped his arm around Nicia and gave her a quick hug. "Kyle, this is Nicia, the love of my life."

Nicia playfully shoved him.

"Nicia, this Kyle Dalton, one of my former commanders."

"Nice to meet you," Nicia said pleasantly before turning back to Grey. "John is about ready to serve dinner."

"We'll be right in." Grey said, giving her a kiss on the cheek before she left.

Kyle smiled at Grey and Nicia, as he remembered what it was like to have someone to care for; his smile weakened as his thoughts drifted to memories of his family.

"Very nice, Grey." Kyle said, referring to Nicia.

Grey smiled proudly. "Let's go," motioning Kyle to follow Nicia's direction.

Kyle followed Grey into the kitchen. He saw a man and woman seated at the table. Nicia was carrying a dish handed to her by a man at the stove.

"Kyle, this is Geheran and Sheral Loruun. You may remember John Drake over there from my early days in the Navy."

"Yes, your second seat." Kyle acknowledged. "Nice to meet you as well," he said to Geheran and Sheral.

"Everyone, General Kyle Dalton."

"Ok, I hope you all enjoy it." John said as he tossed a towel on the counter.

"You're not eating with us?" Grey asked.

John grinned. "No, I figured you all had plenty to discuss, so I asked Dariena out to dinner."

Grey chuckled. "Okay. Just be sure to have my sister home at a respectable time," he teased.

"Sister?" Kyle asked, confused. "I thought you didn't have any siblings."

Grey waved as John left the kitchen. "She's a close friend, not actually my sister."

Sheral gave Kyle a warm smile. "General Dalton, Greyson has told us you are interested in discovering alien life."

"I assume Grey has told you that I have spent much of the last few years pursuing that goal. I once tried to get Grey to work with me, but he laughed at the idea of intelligent life from outside our solar system."

Grey slunk slowly in his seat as Sheral, Geheran and Nicia turned to look at him.

"Really?" Nicia questioned with great amusement.

Grey said, hoping to redirect everyone's attention from himself back to Kyle. "Kyle, I know it's always been a dream of yours, to find alien life and..."

Kyle interrupted Grey as he began feeling uncomfortable with the topic. "I realize it must seem a waste for someone to dedicate their life toward a search like that."

"Not at all, General." Geheran said, attempting to control his grin. "And, I'm certain Grey's opinions have changed as well."

The conversation paused as everyone took turns looking at one another. Kyle wondered why Grey looked sheepish under Nicia's and her father's stares. In general, they all seemed to be amused. He began to think their amusement was at his expense. He noticed only Sheral maintained a serious expression, keeping her attention focused on him.

"General Dalton, how would you like to visit another world as an observer?" asked Sheral.

"I think it would be a fantastic experience."

Sheral looked at Kyle, her expression unchanging as she waited for a definitive answer.

Grey chuckled. "She was expecting you to answer yes or no."

Kyle could tell everyone was treating him with a tongue-in-cheek attitude. "Grey, I don't appreciate being mocked."

"Kyle, no one here is mocking you."

"Then what's so damn funny?"

Grey tried to think of a way to tell Kyle that they were the only humans in the room.

Kyle grew impatient waiting for Grey to answer and pushed himself back from the table, getting up to leave.

"Wait!" Grey said jumping up to stop him.

Kyle paused with his hand on the door, and said without looking back at anyone. "Grey it is not a joke to me."

Grey rested his hand on Kyle's shoulder and spoke softly. "No, it isn't. Kyle, the offer was valid." Grey nodded to the others as Geheran and Sheral deactivated their holosuits. Nicia left hers active, at a prior request of Grey, to avoid another incident similar to when John had found out about their relationship.

"Turn around," Grey pleaded with Kyle.

Kyle turned to see what Grey wanted him to look at. His heart skipped a beat, and a chill went down his spine as he looked at a pair of wolfish creatures.

He turned toward Grey. "Grey, I think we should have a little talk."

Grey nodded and motioned for Kyle to follow him into the next room.

"How private do you want this?"

"Alone," Kyle replied with great emphasis. His tone didn't hold any anger, but it was firm.

"Lets go outside, you'd be surprised at the range of Trephi hearing."

Kyle followed Grey out onto the patio and down to the lake's edge.

When they reached the lake, Kyle turned to Grey. "I want to hear it all, from the beginning."

"How?" he started to ask as a thought occurred to him. He spoke in a very flat, monotone voice. "This wouldn't have anything to do with your disappearance in Colombia, would it?"

"Yes, it does."

Kyle waited patiently for Grey to elaborate.

"While I was investigating the Phoenix crash site, I stumbled across Geheran and his ship. He had collided with the satellite that was the reason of the incident." Grey paused for a moment as he thought back. "You remember the detonation of one of the tactical warheads."

"Yes. I remember it."

"When that happened, the blast knocked us both out. We woke up in a Colombian prison. I was only a prisoner for a few days, not the eighteen months I had used as a cover story. I escaped with Geheran."

"Why? Why did you never tell me?"

"Would you have believed me? I didn't exactly have any proof."

"Yes," Kyle said without any hesitation. "I trust your word. I still do. Didn't you trust me?"

"It wasn't a matter of trust. It was credibility. I wanted to tell you, but I couldn't risk the story getting out. As far as I knew, I would never see them again. I needed to resume my life and get on with a career."

Kyle nodded, seeming to understand.

"Kyle, do you still trust me, enough to accept their offer?"

Kyle looked into Grey's eyes.

Grey could see a slight hesitation. He would have thought Kyle would jump at the chance at fulfilling his dream.

"Yes," Kyle finally answered.

"Good. I know you'll be glad you accepted."

"Nicia. You said she was the love of your life. She's one of them too. Isn't she?" Kyle asked.

Grey looked at Kyle, trying to anticipate his reaction. After a moment Grey nodded hesitantly.

"Do you really love each other?"

"Absolutely," Grey said with conviction. "I'd do anything for her and I know she would do the same."

Kyle stared out over the lake as he replied in a somber tone. "Then I envy you."

"I have to say I'm surprised that you're so open-minded. The last person who found out didn't take it too well."

"Grey, as long as you love each other, then I don't really care if she isn't human."

Kyle's thoughts drifted to his wife.

"Kyle, I can tell you're thinking about your family."

Kyle looked at Grey, surprised. "I never mentioned anything to you about them. How did you find out?"

"DeStefano, in my unit, was from New York. He had an accent like yours, and he tried to hide it as well. I don't know the details, but it doesn't take too much sense to figure out you probably lost some of your family."

"My entire family was in Now York."

Grey remained silent for a moment as he shuffled his feet in the gravel shore. "DeStefano hated when people would pick up on his accent. He was tired of everyone offering their sympathy. He just wanted to put the memories behind him. Is that the way you feel?"

"Most of the surviving New Yorkers feel that way."

Grey continued digging his feet into the gravel, building up a small pile.

Kyle finally broke the silence. "If you knew, why didn't you ever ask me about it?"

"I figured that if you ever wanted to talk about it, you knew where to find me."

"Thanks, Grey." Kyle appreciated Grey's tactfulness. "Have you told anyone else?"

"About your family? No." Grey kicked the pile of gravel into the water. "There's no one left to tell from our old Ops teams anyway."

"I want you to promise me something, Grey."

Grey nodded.

"Never tell anyone else that I am from NY. I tire of the looks people give me when they find out, and of their empty expressions of sympathy."

"Okay. I understand."

Grey decided to try to lighten the mood. "But you have to promise me something in return," he said with a wry grin.

"Yes?"

"Don't go telling Nicia and the others I didn't believe in aliens."

Kyle chuckled slightly. "All right, you have my word."

"Thanks." Grey grinned at Kyle's amusement. "So, are you sure you're going to be all right with them? They might seem a little intimidating, but they're really quite easy to get along with."

"Yes. Don't worry I'll be fine." Kyle reassured Grey. "So when do we leave?"

"I suppose after you are officially contacted by President Oakley. I wanted to make the offer to you personally. Oakley will be making blind offers to candidates. I was afraid you wouldn't accept if you didn't know the details."

Kyle nodded. "Thanks. I appreciate the advanced warning. I probably wouldn't have accepted."

Grey looked back towards the cabin and noticed Nicia watching through the patio door.

"Well, if you don't have anything else you'd like to discuss in private, maybe we should head back in."

Kyle nodded. "Yes, I think your friends are all waiting to hear my response. How should I address them?"

"They all hold titles of Emissary, but since we're in an informal setting, by their names is fine."

Kyle followed Grey back towards the cabin. As they reached the porch, Geheran stepped outside. "I'll be back after I take care of some business back home."

Grey nodded and held the door for Kyle. They found Nicia and Sheral sitting at the kitchen table.

"Emissaries," Kyle said, "I would be honored to accept your offer."

Sheral smiled warmly. "Excellent. But please, you don't have to address us by our titles. This is a friendly meeting. Grey thought we should get to know you. He speaks very highly of you."

Grey stepped behind Nicia, resting his hand on her shoulder. "Nicia-che, you can turn your suit off. Kyle knows."

Nicia went right for the controls on her arm and deactivated the holosuit. She let out a satisfied sigh as she freed herself of the holosuit's irritation.

Kyle gave Nicia a friendly smirk. "It's nice to see you finally."

Nicia smiled at Kyle's subtle wit. "Thank you. It's a relief to not use the suit."

Kyle watched Grey as he spoke with Sheral. "So, Grey has been talking about me?"

Grey scurried to the stove and brought a pot back to the table. He began serving everyone, starting with Sheral and Nicia before serving Kyle and himself.

"He said you were one of the few people he had any respect for, and that you were responsible for much of his training."

"Yes, that is true, but Grey is innately a very talented and smart man. I only guided him in the correct direction, nothing more."

"Looks like John whipped up some kind of stew," Grey said, fiddling with his plate as he tried to ignore all the fuss over him.

Sheral regarded Kyle with great interest. "Teaching others to follow the right direction, that is a respected profession among Trephi."

"I taught people to kill. That is hardly an honorable profession," Kyle said, disgusted by even the thought of having to kill. Even though he knew at times it was an unavoidable necessity.

"I don't think Greyson was referring to combat skills."

Grey shook his head in agreement with Sheral as he turned to Kyle. "I always tried to follow your example as a leader. I put my men first, protecting them from unnecessary risks. I always considered you an excellent role model." Grey smiled at Sheral. "And you, you're an excellent teacher as well. I've learned a great deal from you."

"Really?" Kyle said, glancing from Grey and back to Sheral. "Did you teach him on..." Kyle hesitated. "You know, I don't think I ever heard the name of your planet."

"Synac," Nicia chimed in, pleased to find a moment's usefulness in the conversation.

Kyle thanked her with a nod before looking toward Grey. "Well, I hope you found some of my training useful."

Grey took a seat in front of Kyle. "Some. Most of Sheral's teaching was to help me find renewed purpose to my life, and get past loosing Susan. Without her support, I think I would have completely given up on life."

"Well then," Kyle said, turning to Sheral, "I thank you for being there for Grey. He means a great deal to me."

Grey looked at Kyle, surprised to hear such an admission.

"Your training served him well, General Dalton," Sheral commended. "In some areas, Grey's training exceeded our highest ranks when we gave him the opportunity to train with our cadets. I'm certain his character is a reflection of yours."

"I just try to do what feels right in both my heart and mind."

Sheral smiled, greatly impressed by Kyle. "Well said," she commented before turning her attention to her meal.

"Unfortunately they often do not agree with each other. Those were the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make." Kyle became preoccupied with his thoughts for a moment. "To this day, I still question if I did the right thing."

Kyle ran his hand up his forehead and over his head.

Sheral watched Kyle for a moment. "What troubles your conscience, General?"

"I wish I could tell you, but that would violate national security."

"I understand." Sheral said, slightly saddened that she could not learn more of what was troubling Kyle.

Kyle's jaw muscles flexed as his memories tormented him. "The best I can tell you is that I have seen and done things that cannot and never should be forgotten. That is one of the curses of attaining a high ranking position in the military."

"Try not to dwell on what you cannot change. What has passed, has passed. Take solace in what change you can bring in the future." Sheral said in an encouraging tone.

"Thank you," Kyle said, trying to put up a facade of strength that, to Sheral, was as transparent as the air between them.

Grey could see the discussion was exhausting Kyle. "So, Kyle, I hope you don't feel like I stole your thunder," Grey said, trying to direct the discussion to something lighter.

Kyle forced a tired smile. "Not at all."

Grey grinned, "Well, you might not have been able to establish relations with another species, but there's plenty for you to learn about on Synac."

Nicia finished her dinner and sat back watching everyone. She thought Kyle looked very tired. She nudged Grey under the table with her foot and nodded toward Kyle when Grey looked at her.

Sheral watched Kyle with a concerned expression.

"Well I better get going," Kyle said as he got up to leave. "I think there is a hotel up the road, I'll stay there for the night and see you tomorrow."

Nicia looked at Grey. "Perhaps you should take Kyle upstairs for the night. I'm sure he must be tired after the long drive here and the shock of meeting us."

Grey stood with Kyle. "You're welcome to stay here, unless of course, you'd be more comfortable down the road. If so, I'll drive you."

"I really do not want to be a burden."

"You're not a burden," interrupted Grey. "You shouldn't be driving now anyway. The fog gets thick out there, and not knowing the roads, it'll take you an hour to go 5 miles."

Kyle looked at Grey with a tired expression.

Grey continued his lecture. "Now all that said, unless the human-trephyn ratio makes you uncomfortable, you're staying."

Kyle forced a tired grin and weakly nodded in agreement. "If you insist, my friend."

Geheran stood at the stove, reheating the meal he had missed earlier. He heard someone moving around in the hall outside the kitchen. He turned to see Kyle at the entrance to the kitchen, watching him.

"I'm sorry if I woke you, General. I seem to have missed out on dinner."

"No, you didn't wake me. I usually don't sleep soundly anyway."

"There's plenty of this stew left, if you would like some."

"Sure," Kyle grabbed a dish from the cabinet, and walked over to Geheran, who filled Kyle's plate and then proceeded to fill his own.

Geheran filled Kyle's plate and then started filling one for himself.

"Thank you," Kyle said as he went and sat at the table.

Geheran sat down heavily at the table. He took a moment to stretch before picking up a spoon and tasting the stew.

Kyle picked up his spoon, his hands twitching slightly. He rested his hand against the table for a moment as he concentrated to regain control of it.

"Grey's friend is quite a good cook. He's been visiting on the weekends and is kind enough to make an occasional meal.

"After years of eating field rations, just about anything tastes good to me." Kyle finally took a taste. "But I must admit; this stew is particularly good."

Geheran smiled. "I think there is a universal law against putting flavor in them."

Kyle genuinely smiles, "Really? I would have thought with all of your advanced technology that you could at least put some flavor into them," he joked.

"Advanced technology only makes them more efficient," Geheran grinned, "with half the weight and taste."

"Have you ever had to live off them for two years?"

Geheran's ears flattened against his head. "That is a horrible thought."

Kyle gives Geheran a wry smile. "Well, the worst part is that after a while," he started whispering, "you kind of start to like them."

Geheran gave a short, bark-like laugh. "Actually, I've tried some of your rations. I didn't find them too unappealing. Perhaps I'll arrange a sample of ours for you."

Kyle shrugged. "So tell me about how you met Grey?"

Geheran looked a little embarrassed. "A foolish mistake on my part. But, one that turned out well."

"How so?"

"We have certain procedures when transitioning into normal space within a star system. Normally, we enter a radial-unit, perpendicular to the system's rotation, then travel inward to our destination. It's a precaution to avoid running into objects."

"Then how did you crash?"

"I was in a hurry, and ignored the procedure."

Kyle could see the Geheran was embarrassed, if he was interpreting the alien's body language correctly.

Geheran nodded. "Planets and moons are easy enough to predict their location, while debris is often impossible."

"A defense platform is hardly debris."

"No insult was meant to your technology," Geheran apologized. "We classify most small objects as debris."

"No insult taken. I was just teasing."

Geheran grinned slightly at the relaxed posture Kyle had assumed with him.

"My ship had suffered some minor systems failure, and I reentered with the satellite. I was almost finished repairing my ship's systems when Grey stumbled into the clearing my ship was in."

"Grey told me what happened next." Kyle said in a somber tone.

Geheran lowered his head. "It was hard for Grey when he later discovered his friends. It was hard for him before as well, when we were imprisoned. I had never seen anyone tortured before."

"I..." Kyle stopped himself from saying he knew how it felt. "I can only imagine that was horrible."

Geheran nodded. "He was beaten severely. Worse, they burned him. The smell of burning flesh is not a pleasant odor," Geheran said taping the side of his muzzle.

Kyle drifted off, thinking about a time he had been captured and tortured.

Geheran noticed Kyle seemed distant. "General?"

Kyle snapped back to the present, "Yes?"

"You seemed preoccupied with your thoughts."

"Oh, sorry, it was nothing."

Kyle scooped up a bit of the stew and ate. As he lowered his spoon, his hand, once again, began to twitch. Kyle, for a brief second had a look of utter horror on his face.

"Are you all right?"

Kyle looked at Geheran. "Yes, just a small twitch from an old wound, nothing serious," Kyle lied again.

"Have your doctors examined you?"

"Yes, but don't concern yourself. As I said, it's nothing serious."

Geheran nodded. "If it becomes a bother, Sheral could probably help rid you of it."

Kyle looked up, he knew the full extent of his condition, and he accepted it. He had earned his scars in service to his country. His actions could never be publicly acknowledged, so his scars served as his medals, serving to remind him of his campaigns.

"No, it's not really that bad. It just pops up now and then. It's no real inconvenience." Kyle hesitated a moment. "Why did you say Sheral could help rid it?"

Geheran finished his stew and looked out over the lake.

"Sheral worked as a medical technician before joining the SDF. She could best operate the facilities we have here. You could also wait until your trip to Synac."

Kyle stopped to think and reluctantly nodded. "Perhaps." Kyle decided to change the subject. "How long have you two been married?"

Geheran seemed to think hard for a moment. "Almost 23 cycles, close to 30 of your years."

"You and Grey, you are both very lucky men."

"One lucky man. One lucky Trephyn." Geheran grinned. "Do you have a mate?"

Kyle looked up and mustered all of his strength to hide his sadness, "No. No I do not."

"You seem a man of good character. I suppose your career prevented it."

Kyle nodded. "I never could find the time, or the right women to spend what little time I had on."

Kyle looked at Geheran, unable to tell his age from his wolfish features. "Just out of sheer curiosity, how old are you?"

Geheran grins. "How old are you by your calendar?"

"How hold do I look?" Kyle asked, knowing his lifestyle caused him to look much older than his actual age.

"Fifty-five."

Kyle was surprised Geheran called his age exactly. "Good guess."

"No guess. Grey told me your age." Geheran grinned. "Would you think I am older or younger than yourself?"

"I'd say a little older than myself."

Geheran chuckled. "Correct. I'm 62 by your calendar."

"So, Sheral, she's younger than you, right?"

Geheran grinned wider than Kyle thought possible. "How much younger would you guess?"

"Oh, I'd guess her to be in her mid to late forties."

"I'll have to tell her you said that. She would be flattered." Geheran laughed.

"Why? How old is she really?"

"She is 39 earth years," Geheran paused for effect, "older than myself."

Kyle gawked, to shocked to speak or move.

Geheran continued to grin. "I see that surprises you. She will be very flattered indeed."

"One-hundred and one. My God, how long do you live?"

"An average age, without medical assistance, is close to Two-hundred years. With frequent medical treatments, that can often be extended another fifty to one-hundred years. Frequent treatment would involve visiting an autodoc once every quarter cycle. Something I wish Sheral to start to do"

"My God," Kyle said, shaking his head. "To me, you have two whole lifetimes ahead of you."

The thought of such a long lifespan saddened him, yet at the same time, he felt relieved. At times, Kyle wished he could live longer and have a chance to reconstruct his life. Then again, there were times he wanted to die, just so he could be with his family.

Kyle thought back to what Geheran had said about Sheral, "Why do you want her to start treatments? It seems to me that she has another hundred years. That's more time than I or other humans have."

Geheran's eyes turned slightly cold. "Putting aside wanting her with me as long as possible, I worry that her ordeal on Earth might have taken some years from her."

"What ordeal?"

"Sheral came to earth to find Grey. She was captured. For a half cycle, I thought she was dead. In reality, she was held prisoner by some faction of your government, until Grey rescued her."

"That's terrible. Who did this? Where was she kept."

"The same human that was responsible for destroying Grey's friends when we first met." Geheran's voice took on a malevolent tone. "I will never forget the debt Marx will have to repay."

Kyle remained silent. Marx, he knew that name.

"Where was she kept."

"A facility south-west of your capitol. I believe Grey called it the CDC."

No, was all Kyle could think, it can't be. With these thoughts, Kyle stood on shaky knees, and spoke, "It's getting late. I better get some rest."

Geheran gave Kyle a pleasant nod. "Good night."

Kyle walked slowly up the stairs to his room.