Harold Helsing marched through the hatch slowly, making each Alliancemen squirm as he did. Make sure they squirm.

He did not hesitate to walk straight up to the captain, keeping his blue-gloved hands in view. “Captain Marcus. I trust the finest in the Core are keeping their priorities straight. It would be so disappointing if this entire ship had to be scrapped.” He paused, watching the captain. “After all, my Academy could always use the funds, and we are always short of supplies.”

Marcus visibly went pale. Lackeys never stopped being afraid of losing all of their hard earned, pee goo-kissing effort going to waste. “No sir, we are keeping just out of range of Regan Tam’s transport. They’ll be landing on Ariel within the hour. Once there, you may disembark and make contact with the authorities there.”

Helsing smiled slightly. “Oh, I was hoping that we could meet them here, aboard the finest ship in the Core.” He raised a hand, to indicate the Magellan. “After all, it would seem proper to brief them here. I think your private quarters would be perfect, Captain. Two hours, I expect to meet Chief Warden of Law Michaels.” He turned, and could almost hear the whimper escaping from Marcus.

Well, not almost.

* * *

Back in his own private ship, docked to the Magellan, First Power Helsing opened the small box with a simple code, and looked lovingly at the little vial held in stasis within. “What a beautiful girl,” he whispered, stroking the vial slightly. “What a lovely little girl.” He leaned in, and nearly felt the surging psychic power from the embryo.

“Who could make a father prouder?”

* * *

Helsing left the ship, followed by Second Power Davis. Neither spoke as they strode slowly to the captains quarters. The lieutenant standing guard snapped to attention so fast Helsing was surprised he didn’t break in half. Any crisper and he would be made of stone. Helsing didn’t acknowledge him as he walked through the door. He was surprised by the captain already waiting, with