Within a quarter of a turn, the shuttle bay of the Erebus became a frenzy of activity. Lynnette and Krista worked as a team collecting medical supplies – vials of anti-virus, surgical lasers, masks, and gloves. Blood centrifuges. Every piece of medical equipment and supplies was managed by a crew member in a hazmat suit, passed through a disinfectant portal, and loaded aboard the shuttle. 

​

“Most of this is state of the art,” Krista said to Lynnette. “How are they going to know how to use these items to their best advantage?”

​

“I’ve included a manual for everything.  They can read,” Lynnette replied. 

​

“Did you see Sagra's eye? He can't read a thing. You have always advocated the importance of hands-on experience,” Krista said.  “The human touch.”

​

“What are you thinking?”

​

“The people of Iuama are more than a hundred and fifty years behind the times in technology – especially medical technology.  We’re giving them new machines and medicines they've never used before. Items that demand dexterity and expertise. You saw Sagra’s hands. If the rest of the population's hands look like that, how will they be able to use half of the things we’re sending them?”  

​

Lynette chewed the stem of her glasses. “So, what are you thinking?”

 

“Two of our most advanced med-bots and vis-pads for the most advanced equipment.” 

​

 “Done. But there isn't much room left.”

​

“I'll make room if you'll place the order.” 

​

Twenty minutes later Dominic Ziggant joined the two women at the shuttle on-ramp. His arms were loaded with boxes. Slung over one shoulder was a familiar bag. He handed it to Krista. “You wanted this.”

​

Krista smiled, “It’s my . . . Well, it was my down-world grip. If I’m not going to get to use it,” she pointed downward.  “Maybe someone on Iuama can.”

​

“I feel like I’m loading Santa’s Sleigh,” Dominic laughed. “Lots of stuff for the good folks of Iuama. Hey, I like that.  Operation Santa’s Sleigh.”

​

“Operation Santa’s Sleigh it is,” Krista and Lynnette said in unison. They laughed and it was back to task. 

​

Articles were loaded, packed, and then unpacked for more important items. When there was still a small pathway to the shuttle's control room, Krista crawled forward and set the launch controls on Santa’s Sleigh to remote autopilot. Luckily, the med-bots and vis-pads fit perfectly in the crawl space. 

​

“I doubt Santa could cram a paper clip into this sleigh,” Lynette said.  

​

Dominic, Lynette, and Krista took a long proud look at the shuttle. 

​

“All they need to do is shut the door,” Dominic smiled. 

​

“Santa’s Sleigh is the perfect name,” Krista said. 

​

 Dominic Ziggant looked at Krista. “I . . . I was looking forward to exploring Iuama with you, ” he said.       “So was I,” Krista smiled. 

​

“Will you join me for a toast to Santa’s Sleigh on rec-14?” Dominic asked. 

 

“Okay, you two,” Lynnette grinned. “Let’s get out of here before our sleigh launches.”

 

“Oh, I meant you too, Lynnette.” Dominic apologized. “Drinks are on me.”

 

Krista looked back at the shuttle and took out a small cylindrical package. “I’ve been debating about including this, but I think it should go down-world.” Krista turned, “I’ll meet you both on Rec 14 in half a rev.” Krista hurried back toward the shuttle. 

 

“What was that she was holding?” asked Dominic. 

 

“I have no idea,” Lynnette said.  “But you know Krista.”

 

“Not really,” Dominic replied.  “Well, not yet.” 

 

​

 E.S.T.  23:17 

 

Only Captain Kohonen, First Officer Franchon Almirol, and Communications Officer Sean Jacobs were in conference room #388.  “Any contact yet, Jacobs?” Captain Kohonen asked as he lapped the conference table for the seventh time.

 

“None, Sir.”

 

“What is wrong with that man?  We’re trying to help.”

 

“So far, he’s been reluctant to accept our help, Sir,” Franchon said. 

 

“Thank you. Now you’re sounding like Darrowski when what I need is —”

 

A crack of static filled the room. Jacobs pointed to the screen. “Got something.”

 

An instant later Sagra opened, “I’ve decided to dispense with the video, Captain. “Have you reached a decision?” 

 

“I have regarding most of your requests. First, the Erebus will leave orbit soon.  But, before we depart my crew has prepared a shuttle—”

 

“Captain, we do not want your shuttle nor its crew.  Anyone who comes—”

 

“Sagra, the shuttle will be unmanned. It’s a gift. It has been loaded with medical supplies and equipment that we hope will be of assistance in your dilemma. The shuttle will remain on Iuama for you to use as you see fit.” 

 

Silence. . . “I suppose. . . suppose— ” Sagra coughed. “A thank you is in order.” Sagra gulped in a large breath of air. “You said you have reached a decision about most of our requests?” 

 

“As an officer of the World’s Oversight Council, I don’t know if I can, in all honesty, remove Iuama and its solar system from our database. I will think more about your request as we return to base.” 

 

“Think well, Captain. Consider the following hypothetical.  Suppose there was a starship with an emergency, or a conglomerate wanted to re-institute Tineke production and its varied products; if either entity could still find Iuama on their star charts . . .” Sagra sighed deeply. “Think long, Captain. There are too many horrendous scenarios to contemplate. A corporate starship might land during our dark cycle, load its bays with bales of Tinek, and be gone before first light.  But it would be carrying more than untreated Tineke. Before its first Jump, crew members would break out in the T.E. rash. Not knowing the cause of the outbreak wouldn’t the captain of the starship head to the nearest inhabited planet for medical assistance?  Wouldn’t you do that?  Think hard, Captain Kohonen. Think hard.”

 

“I will Sagra.”  

 

“I don’t mean to be abrupt but depart soon. A functioning space shuttle coming to Iuama presents a problem in itself. Captain, I have some highly infected—desperate – people here who would like nothing better than to commandeer that shuttle and force their way onto the Erebus.” 

 

Both men shared a moment of silence as each contemplated the gravity of the other’s comment. 

 

“Sagra, I’m sorry we didn’t meet under happier circumstances.”

 

“Me too,” Sagra wheezed.  “Thank you for the gifts and your shuttle. I promised to make good use of it. . . and . . .now goodbye.”  A static and silence.   

 

Captain Kohonen turned to Second Officer Franchon Almirol. “Give the order to launch the supply shuttle. When it’s safely down-world we’re leaving.” 

 

#

 

Near a star portal in rec-area 14 Dominic Ziggant and Lynette sat huddled over glasses filled with a pale green liquid topped with bubbling foam. Dominic looked at his Wrist-cephal.  “Um, wonder what’s keeping Krista?”

 

“Give her time,” Lynnette said, sipping gingerly from her glass. “She’s been on a roller coaster. Becoming a doctor, then an opportunity for her first down-world as an Ob5 Observer. Only to discover the planet and its people are infected with some unknown diseases. Krista cares deeply about others.  She wanted to go to Iuama. Right now, I think she feels like she’s been wasted, impotent. Krista is a very determined woman. With an incredible passion to help others.”

 

“I’ve noticed,” Dominic said. 

 

“And I think she’s noticed you too,” Lynnette lifted her glass. “Toast. We did a hell of a job with Santa’s Sleigh.” They clinked glasses. “And the Milky Way is a big place with billions of stars and trillions of planets circling them. Soon, hopefully, you two will get a chance to explore—”

 

​

“CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER LYNNETTE CAFFREY AND SECURITY CHIEF

DOMINIC ZIGGANT REPORT TO LEVEL SIXTY-FIVE,  RED CORRIDOR #388 NOW!”

 

Captain Kohonen’s voice boomed over the rec-areas 14 speakers.  

 

​

E.S.T.  23:55

 

Lynnette and Dominic Ziggant were not through the doorway when Captain Kohonen shouted. “Where is Krista Tay?”

 

“Krista?” Lynnette and Dominic asked in unison.

 

“Am . . . I not . . .   enunciating?   K r i s t a Tay.  Where is she?”

 

“She was to meet us on rec 14. She —”

 

“Did you check her room?” Lynnette asked.

 

“We did.”

 

“Maybe she’s in the medical — ” Dominic started.

 

“OR MAYBE SHE’S IN THE SUPPLY SHUTTLE ON HER WAY TO IUAMA.”

 

“Sir, I am — ” Lynnette pointed to Dominic.  “Sir, we’re both confused.”

 

“You’re confused? You're saying neither of you had anything to do with helping Krista stow away on the shuttle?  This was all her idea?”  Captain looked from Dominic to Lynnette and back again then slammed his fist on the table.  “Oh, of course, it was. Damn it. Damn you, Krista!” Captain Kohonen paced and turned to Jacobs, “Have you contacted the shuttle yet?”

 

“Sir, there’s been no response. But, depending on where Krista is, she might not hear or be able to respond to the com-command.”

 

“The shuttle was almost filled to capacity, Captain.” Lynnette offered quietly. “The launch was on automatic. It would be difficult for anyone to reach the pilot compartment from the shuttle access door.”

 

“All right, all right.” Captain Kohonen turned to his Communications Officer.  “Keep trying to reach her, Jacobs.” Captain Kohonen gestured to two empty chairs, “Would you both . . . please sit down. Sorry about the outburst. If we can get Krista on audio maybe one of you can reason with her. The woman’s impetuous.  She’s trying to be a hero. Maybe if she doesn’t open the shuttle —”

 

“I beg to differ, Captain,” Lynnette said softly. “Krista does not do things for ulterior motives. She is on a mission. She is brilliant, intuitive, perhaps she can  find some way to help those poor people.” 

 

“She wants to do something.” Dominic interrupted. “It will be hard to stop her. And with all due respect. . . Sir, I wonder if we should try.”

 

Captain Kohonen glared at Ziggant. “Of course, we should try! Kirsta is a member of my crew. I want her back aboard my ship.” 

 

Captain Kohonen lifted his coffee cup off the table. It was empty. He cocked his arm, but fought the urge to toss the cup against the wall. Thoughts swirled through his mind. How can I get her back? Can't send another shuttle. If either vehicle opens a door to the planet's atmosphere, the occupants will become infected. Then none of them can reboard the Erebus.” Captain Kohonen paced, looking from face to face.  “I want . . . We all want Krista healthy, alive, and back on this ship, damn it. Not dying alone on some godforsaken planet.”

 

No one in the room commented until Lynnette ventured, “I'm sure Krista has considered the consequence. She has an innate sensibility for others. An inner drive to make life a better experience for everyone. For months, all she's talked about is making a trip down world. To observe and use those observations to teach us more and more about humankind. That Iuama is infected.  Maybe dying. . .” Lynnette took off her glasses and absently wiped the lens on her scrubs. “Some of this is my fault. Had I thought about it, this was a situation Krista could not resist. The perfect chance to give her life import. I realize now, as soon as Krista assessed the state of affairs, she was going to Iuama.” Lynette laughed sadly. “She's even got one of us to bring her her down-world grip.”      

 

Captain Kohonen looked back and forth between Lynnette and Dominic and smiled. They sat stoically with mutual airs of conviction. “Do I detect dissension in my ranks?” Captain Kohonen sighed and headed for the door. Okay, we'll wait to hear from Krista or Sagra. Or both,” he sighed and shook his empty coffee mug in the air. “I’m going for some coffee. Bredolin coffee.”  He glanced over his shoulder. “Anyone else?”. 

 

​

E.S.T.  23:59

 

As soon as the shuttle cleared the Erebus launch bay, Krista shouldered her way to a port hole. Far off, behind the tightly packed stacks of equipment and medical supplies, she heard the muffled voice of Communications Officer Jacobs, “Doctor Krista Tay, please initiate communication.”

 

“Sorry Jacobs, I doubt a mouse could make it to the control room right now,” Krista laughed. “But I wish I could. The view would be a hell of a lot better there than through this port hole. 

 

 

 

The shuttle's descent was well programmed.  A long, slow series of loops around Iuama to avoid any atmospheric anomalies that might disturb the diagnostic instruments or multiple vials of vaccines and medicines. 

 

With mounting anticipation, Krista peered through the port hole. What a beautiful world, Krista thought as she retrieved the mem-cam from her down-world grip. Snow-capped poles. One supercontinent and scattered islands of every shape and size separated by seas, straits, and an ocean of blue and green pastels. She pressed the lens of the mem-cam to the port hole and pressed record. So beautiful. 

 

The shuttle flew along a winding range of volcanic mountains – more than one was issuing thin plumes of smoke. River after river flowed from the mountain range disappearing into grasslands, a huge desert, and the omnipresent tropical forests. Altitude decreased on the second loop of Iuama. The shuttle flew along a rugged coastline with beaches of beet-red sand.  What a shame. Take away the Tineke-Elastica and the people of Iuama had discovered paradise.”

 

“Krista, it’s not too late.” Captain Kohonen’s voice came from the control room. “I have a shuttle pilot here with me. She can tell you how to reverse course. Please, Krista, we don’t need a dead hero. Doctor, we need you aboard the Erebus.”

 

Krista looked over her shoulder.  “Captain, I’m not trying to be a hero. I made a choice. I believe I can make a difference.”

 

At the confluence of two rivers, the shuttle passed over a good-sized city with a well-defined infrastructure of parks, avenues, and bridges. All of them appeared abandoned except for a few individuals who scattered into doorways and architectural nooks to avoid the approaching shuttle.  Oddly there were no buildings over five stories high and they all seemed transparent in the sunlight. 

 

“Krista, it’s not too late.” Captain Kohonen repeated. “I have a shuttle pilot here with me who can talk you through —” 

 

Krista ignored the rest of the message. Why am I shouting? He can’t hear me.  She returned to the port hole and immediately fell back from a flash of blinding light. What the hell was that?  As quickly as the light appeared it disappeared. The shuttle circled over a river. Again, Krista was blinded by light. She peered behind her. Glass! A city of glass!

 

 

#

 

 

The landing pad had not been used for decades. A large funnel of dust and dirt spiraled around the shuttle as it eased to the surface of Iuama. Krista squirmed her way back to the shuttle door and paused. No turning back now. Krista pulled down the two-door clamps, turned the wheel lock, and pushed. There was a low hiss as the shuttle ramp extended and came to rest on the ground.

 

Almost immediately three figures emerged through the settling cloud of dust.  Krista braced herself for the encounter, then gasped in disbelief as a tall male figure stepped closer. He’s handsome. No beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. Ebony hair past his buttocks and grayest eyes I have ever seen.

 

“Krista Tay, I am Hanar, only of Sagra Kalam.”  Hanar extended his hand.  “You have made a serious error in judgment, but still, we welcome you to Iuama.”

 

A red-headed woman, who could have anywhere from fifteen to thirty, appeared on Hanar’s right. An intricate braid of red hair fell easily off her shoulder to her waist.  Only the pictures and sculptures of the goddess Xrene from the planet Nethas rivaled her beauty. As a third person stepped into view Hanar moved closer.

 

Krista stepped back onto the shuttle ramp and swept her arm to the open door. “I’ve brought medical” . . . Krista started, “but right now I am very confused.  None of you seem to be suffering from Tineke Elastica, in fact, the opposite  seems to be true.” Krista turned and started back up the shuttle ramp. “I'm calling the Erebus. What the hell — ?”  Krista barely felt the injection as she fell into Hanar’s open arms.

 

#

 

Krista woke slowly. Groggy. Disorientated. Warm sunlight poured through a half-dome of glass extending the ceiling to the floor.  Only the floor and rear wall seemed to be made of solid materials.  With effort, Krista stood, made her way to the window, and looked down at the city of Lakal.  It was beautiful. A city of glass. Though most of the streets, parks, and bridges were empty. A dozen multicolored creatures that resembled carnival balloons with wings glided past the window. Instinctively, Krista tapped the glass to draw their attention. 

​

“We call them gazbags.” Came a female voice from behind her. “They are very smart. Sometimes they deliver messages.” A vaguely familiar redheaded woman crossed to her side.  “Our city is lovely, yes?”  

​

Krista fought to clear the cobwebs in her mind. 

 

“I am Tyree, second daughter of Sagra Kalam. We met—”  

 

“I remember, “Krista said with a sharp edge to her voice. “You're part of the gang that drugged me.”

 

Tyree smiled with embarrassment, “I’m sure you have many questions.”

 

“I do.” Krista stared rudely at the woman. Up and down. “You are 

beautiful . . ."

 

“Why thank you.” Tyree pushed a red braid off her shoulder. “So are —”

 

“Lady, that was not meant as a compliment.” Krista pointed to Tyree’s face. “You have no sign of any kind of infection. Neither did . . .What was his name. . .? The creep with the injection?” 

 

“Hanar, my older though, not necessarily wiser brother.”

 

Krista pointed to the city below. “Where is everybody? How did you build a city of glass? Why the chicanery? The lies upon lies. What is wrong with you people? What are you all trying to —”

     Tyree held out a hand. “Oh, so many questions. So quickly,” she smiled easily. “Let me answer the questions I can . . . As we speak our Council of Equals is assembling. I’m sure they will answer the rest of your questions to your satisfaction.”

 

 

Krista folded her arms across her chest. “So, begin.” Krista's mind went into high gear. Something about this woman does not feel right. Lynette would call her unctuous. There's something mean behind those incredible green eyes. The woman is stunning.  And her red hair, a gift of nature . . . Am I jealous?  

 

“I can answer your first question easily.” Tyree stepped closer to the window.  “We have asked our citizens to remain out of sight. We didn't know the visual capability of your starship. We wanted you to go away. We didn't want you to see a bustling metropolis.”  Tyree fiddled with her braid. With regards to your second question, the glass you see is one of the many ways we utilize Tineke. It’s incredibly malleable and can be used for a myriad of different –—”

 

‘Malleable’ rang in Krista’s mind. She remembered the first time she saw Sagra's face on the vid-screen and blurted “THAT GOD-AWFUL HEAD!” Krista cringed. “That mushroom-shaped thing that appeared on our video screen?  Sagra’s head? His blind eye. Horrible mouth . . . The pustules?”

 

Tyree nodded and added nonchalantly, “Just a mask. We make them for 'Fright Night.' It's one of our children's . . . Well, everyone’s favorite evening. The more grotesque the better. It’s been a tradition for over a century.  Often we —”

 

“I repeat. What is wrong with you people?”

 

Tyree sighed and leaned against the window and looked out over the city. “I suppose . . .The simplest answer to that question is . . . we are not dying.”

 

“What?” 

 

“When you feel stronger, I will bring you before the council.” Tyree turned away from the window. “I do not have the authority to—"

 

This woman is lying, Krista’s mind turned. Who is she? Krista started toward the door. “I’m strong enough now.”  She stumbled.

 

“Are you sure you're ready?” Tyree offered her arm. 

 

Krista shook away the redhead's offer. 

 

"Fine. Then follow me,” Tyree said a bit put off. “We know you deserve an explanation.” Tyree stepped in front of Krista and bulled out the door.  

 

Krista's first few steps faltered. “What the hell did your brother stick in me?”

 

 

#

 

Tyree ushered Krista down a flight of stairs, and through a series of corridors until they entered a large, circular chamber. Guarding the door stood a dozen intimidating men and women in charcoal uniforms, yellow-gold berets, and matching yellow-gold armbands. As one, they came to attention as the two women passed between them. 

​

Krista glanced at the ceiling. Incredible, she thought. A hundred-foot dome composed of a single sheet of Tineke glass that draped downward and disappeared into beds of vegetation, and infinity pools. Water lapped over the edges of the pools creating a melodic gurgle of running water. Coupled with the hushed conversations of a standing-room crowd, in the multi-tiered chamber, the entire hall had an unworldly ambiance. Krista grinned. Unworldly doesn't come close.  

 

“Krista Tay, would you please join us?” A familiar baritone voice called from a circular table in the middle of the room. There was no cough. No wheeze. Eight chairs of different sizes and designs encircled the table. Only three were unoccupied.  One on each side of the speaker, and one directly opposite. 

 

A circular table promotes equality, just like the Erebus, Krista thought as she approached Sagra Kalam the `Fifth.'  Even twenty yards away Krista could see there were no signs of disease or infection. More mature, he was as handsome as his son. Distinguished. In his early forties. 

 

Captain Kohonen's motto 'Expect the unexpected,' warned in Krista's mind. 

 

Sagra rose respectfully, raised an arm, and motioned to Krista. His hand was large with thick fingers. The gray hue was gone and there was no sign of pustules. “Please be seated.”

 

“I'll stand,” Krista said with more than an edge of defiance.

 

“As you will.” Sagra sat. Tyree joined him on his left. Hanar slipped into the chair to his right. “I know you have . . . Many questions.  And I know I must explain my recent conversations with your captain.”

 

Krista was well-trained. She went into observer mode. Listening with one ear and absorbing with her eyes.  Sagra’s voice faded into background noise.

 

“But first I would like to introduce you to Iuama's Council of Equals. You have already met my son and daughter.”    

 

Son on his right. Daughter on the left. He's either established or is trying to establish a monarchy.  

 

“On my son's right is Nopo II. First Council and valued advisor.”

 

Krista and Nopo II locked eyes for a moment. She's smart. Taking in everything. Even checking out my fingernails. Why no first name?

 

“On Tyree's left is Second Council Andrew Arkie”

 

Arkie twisted one end of the largest mustache Krista had ever seen and nodded.  Don't know why, but he reminds me of Darrowski. Wonder if he's any good with numbers. 

 

“And on your left William Biz. On your left George Vety.” 

 

Biz smiled. Vety bobbed his head up and down. No titles. Sycophants. Lackeys.  

 

Sagra sweet his arm around the chamber. “On behalf of the council and all of the citizens of Iuama, I welcome you to Iuama.”

 

Polite applause and verbal acknowledgments followed his comments.   

 

Krista waited patiently until a degree of quiet returned to the chamber, then took one step closer to the table. “Sagra Kalam, you are a liar!  You created an elaborate, well-rehearsed scenario, to drive my people away. We came here in peace. With goodwill. Hoping you would like to rejoin the human community.

But you lied. Why?” 

 

All lingering conversations in the arena came to a halt. Silence. Krista's voice and anger carried to every corner. 

 

“We were not invading Iuama. We had every intention of respecting your laws. We would have honored any conditions you demanded. Why the deceit?  The chicanery, Sagra Kalam the Fifth?”

    

Krista was surprised when a burst of subtle laughter came from every side of the glass dome. I’m missing something. But what?  Krista gestured around the chamber. “I see no evidence of disease or infection. You could have—”  

 

“Oh, but you are wrong Observer Tay. We are infected. Seriously infected.  And now you are too. You became a member of our fraternity the moment you stepped out of your shuttle and took a first breath of Iuama air. . .”

 

Sighs and murmurs of affirmation came quietly from the crowd 

 

“May I ask your age?”

 

“What the f__. What has my age got to do with anything?”

 

“Krista, I know I don’t deserve it, but please humor me. What is your age in what you would term standard years?”

 

“Twenty-eight.”

 

“Twenty-eight.  A wonderful age . . . in a way, the same age as my daughter Tyree. And you will both enjoy being twenty-eight for quite a while.”

 

Krista's face tightened in confusion. 

 

Sagra pointed to various tiers in the chamber. “Krista, I know you’ve only been here for a short time. You’ve only had a brief glimpse of our world.” 

 

Krista glared across the table at Hanar. “Because your oldest son stuck me with a needle.” 

 

“Oh, I will tend to that mistake shortly.” Sagra eyed Hanar then turned his attention back to Krista. “You are a trained observer. An academy graduate.  An Ob5.  Have you noticed anything peculiar about the citizens of Lakal since you stepped into this room?”

 

Krista took a longer, slower look around the table and at the people gathered in the tiers beneath the walls of glass.  How stupid, she thought.  She looked from Sagra to Tyree and then to Hanar.  “There are no old people. Or at least none seem to be here.”

 

A hum of acknowledgment came from around the chamber. 

 

Tyree, Sagra, and Hanar nodded as one. “There are no old people anywhere on Iuama,” Hanar said. “In the one hundred and fifty-seven years since we arrived, only a few people have died. Eight in drowning or climbing accidents. One from the sting of a crumbee.  A bee-like insect that is better left alone. And we’ve lost others to heart attacks, cancer, and other natural causes. A few folks have simply disappeared. 

 

Krista stepped forward. “Is this a new lie, Sagra?”

 

“Have you heard of Thomas Malthus?” 

 

“I’m not sure.” Krista wobbled. Immediately someone appeared behind her with a chair.

 

“Please sit down, Krista. You’ve been through a lot and there is much to digest.”

 

Krista sank into the soft folds of the chair.  This must be made of Tineke. From nowhere appeared a glass of water. She eyed Sagra and the glass of water.   

 

“No drugs,” Sagra assured her and shot a mean glare at Hanar. “There was no need for drugs in the first place.” 

 

Hanar stood and looked at Krista sheepishly.  “My father is right.  But, when you turned and started back into the shuttle to call the Erebus . . . I didn’t know if you were alone or armed.  I didn’t know what you had planned.”  Hanar bowed his head.  “Krista Tay, I apologize, and I will try to make up for my behavior in the future.” Hanar did not lift his head. 

 

Krista waited and finally realized . . . “Hanar, your apology is accepted.” 

 

Hanar lifted his head slowly, smiled, and returned to his seat.

 

As Krista took a sip of water, Sagra continued.  “Thomas Malthus authored a theory that if human populations run rampant; disease, famine, war, and calamity will be the result.  When we first arrived on this beautiful world we were invigorated. For the first two decades, we were oblivious. Everything seemed perfect. Wonderful weather. Clean water. Fertile soil. Ample sources of food on the land and in our rivers and oceans even before we added some of our own innovations. Our only problem was sex.”

 

There were no titters or laughter from the assembled, only nods and whispers of agreement. 

 

“We didn't know it, but there was something unusual about Iuama from day one. We still don’t know if it’s the water, the balmy air, or the incredible starry nights.  I think it's all three and more. . . But suddenly everyone’s libido went into overload.  In one year, our population grew to over a thousand. Within several years it doubled again and then again.”

 

“Sagra,” Krista interrupted and waved her arm around the crowded chamber. “Iuama is a large planet. There is plenty of room for a large population.”

 

“A large planet, yes. But mostly water.” Sagra turned to Tyree. “I am having difficulty explaining. Would you mind?”

 

Tyree fiddled with her red braid as she spoke. “Krista, would you agree that most women would like to have children?” 

 

“I would agree.”

 

“It took us a while to notice, but as our first generation – which included me and my brother – grew into our teens, our parents were not aging in the normal sense  . . .” 

 

‘First generation’ echoed through Krista's mind. She didn't need Darrowski to do the math. Sagra had said Tyree was 'in-a-way' twenty-eight. If she was born in the third or fourth year of arrival. . . she would be at least one-hundred and forty-two years old. And that would make Sagra –—  

 

Tyree interrupted further calculations. “Fifteen years into arrival our first generation reached puberty and did what comes naturally, we discovered sex. Unbridled sex – with over-zealous teenage hormones – is not a good mix. Initially, Iuama was a liberal society. There was a world to populate. All children were welcomed whether from marital relationships or casual encounters. Then, we realized the original colonist, like my mother. . .”

 

Tyree looked over the crowd. “Our mother should have been well past her reproductive prime. She was not. All the men and women who initially colonized Iuama were still sexually active. Having children. And their children and then their children’s children were having children ─ lots of them.  And to our dismay, when the younger generation reached their thirteenth or fourteen year, they seemed to stop aging. At least in the normal sense.” Tyree looked across the table to Nopo II. “Our First Council can best explain the consequences.”

 

Nopo II's blond hair fell behind her as she stood. There was no introduction. There were no pleasantries.  Nopo II was all business.  “Finally, someone did the math. The population of Iuama started with six hundred and nine people. Fifty-eight women were already pregnant aboard the World Seeker and gave birth shortly after arrival. Soon there were children everywhere. At that rate of birth and the basic absences of death – Iuama could have a population of ten million people in eighty years and over one hundred million thirty years later. And a billion soon after that. When the Council of Equals realized what was happening, they passed laws limiting the number of children. Regrettably, when you pass laws that regulate the behavior of people in their bedrooms, those laws are ignored. Human nature.” Nopo II shrugged. “So, we did the next best thing. We added a birth control compound to our water supply. Encouraged abortions. Birth control devices are free and available nearly everywhere. Each action helped curtail our population explosion. . . Somewhat.”  Nopo II turned to Sagra. 

 

“You see,” Sagra opened. “Long life, exaggerated libidos, and overpopulation are our curse.” Sagra’s baritone grew in timbre.  “A curse that if it wasn’t halted would have resulted in famine, war, murder, and disease. Long life is the serpent in our Eden.  But then again . . . What is an Eden without children?”

Murmurs of affirmation and groans of disappointment followed Sagra's words.

 

"Krista, what is any society without the voices and laughter of children?  No cartwheels or somersaults? No shouts of glee at discovery? And to add to that dilemma may I offer a hypothetical?”

 

Krista cleared her throat. “A hypothetical?” Still deeply confused, she stalled the revelations by finishing her glass of water and finally consented. “All right.” 

 

“It wasn’t the original colonist or their progeny that was our main concern. How many crew members are on the Erebus?”

 

The sudden shift in direction jolted Krista.  “That’s classified information, Sagra.”

 

“Sorry. Of course, it is. May I ask how many people would have come to Iuama on the original down-world team? . . .  Do they still call them down-world teams?”

 

“They do. There would have been four or five.”

 

“Fine. Here's my hypothetical. Suppose we did not create what you called a ruse to discourage you from landing on Iuama. Suppose. . .  Suppose we did nothing to halt your arrival.”

 

“Did nothing?”

 

Sagra waited a long time before continuing.  He watched patiently, giving Krista time to reflect. 

 

“Suppose the Erebus down-world team landed on Iuama. . . Like you, the team would have been infected as soon as they opened their shuttle door. . .When they returned to your ship –— after your starship made two or three jumps from one solar system to the next –— everyone on the EREBUS would have aged normally. Everyone . . .  except the four or five members of your down-world team.  And unless you’re serving with a crew of imbeciles . . . someone would notice none of the down-world team was aging. And that every one of them had suddenly become quite . . . promiscuous.

 

“By the time the Erebus arrived at its next port-of-call, gossip would be rampant.  Within a few days, the gossip would spread from world to world on every outbound starship.  Iuama the “Fountain of Youth” would be the cry.  And why not?  And who wouldn’t want to come to a world that promised balmy weather? Clean air?  Pure water? And most enticing, a world where you only age one year for every eight or nine.  And your sex drive and performance may last well into . . . actually, we still have no idea how long it will last. 

 

“You're an Observer. You've spent years studying human nature. Wouldn’t the rumors magnify? Wouldn’t Iuama be christened the ‘World of Eternal Life.'  Or the ‘World of Endless Sex.’ Most likely both.”

 

Sagra cleared his throat, took a sip of water, and pointed to the sky through the glass dome. “Krista, how long do you think it would be before our skies would be inundated with colonizing starships?  How many starship crews would abandon their duties to immigrate to Iuama? How long before our land, forest, valleys, and beaches would be overrun by multitudes eager to live in a paradise that offers long life, incredible weather, and a three or four-hundred-year sex life?  Perhaps longer. And maybe a six-hundred-year lifespan?”

 

Krista shuffled uneasily in her chair. Her eyes took a long slow look at Tyree, Hanar, and Sagra. Around her, the anxiety of the crowd was palpable.  

 

“Krista, can you imagine what these millions of people ─ and there would be millions and millions ─ would bring with them?”

​

Krista shook her head.

 

“Neither can I.” Sagra stood and smiled gently. “And here’s the easiest part of this dilemma for me and I believe the most difficult for you. MD- Ob5, Krista Tay you are not our prisoner. You are free to go. Your shuttle is a short walk. Hanar and Tyree have agreed to accompany you. I suggest you take your time. Use it to explore our city. When you arrive at your shuttle you will have to decide. If you elect to return to the Erebus I will make visual contact with Captain Kohonen alone. I will not wear a ‘Fright Night’ mask. I will confirm that you are not infected with any disease. I will explain that when you arrive on board you will need a private debriefing to explain a very complicated situation. I will tell him the truth. If Captain Kohonen elects to share our ‘truth’ with other members of his crew . . .” Sagra held eyes with Krista. “Do not be surprised if members of your crew mutiny and abandon the Erebus for the promises Iuama offers.”

 

Sagra stepped away from his chair. “Krista, please note, that I believe your Captain is an honorable man, but he is duty-bound to the World's Oversight Council.  And even if he elects to keep our dilemma a secret. . . still, after your starship has made a jump or two everyone on board will have aged. Everyone, except you. You will become a curiosity.  Some of your friends or colleagues will remember you were the only person to visit our world. Only you breathed our air and drank our water.”

 

A general murmur of consensus came from the other members of the Council of Equals. “I’d venture that in a very short time more than a thousand starships, crammed with eager colonists, would launch and head straight for Iuama and all it promises. In a generation, Iuama would be overpopulated. And still, more starships would come and all the troubles they carry would follow.  I leave the decision to you, Doctor and Observer Krista Tay.”  

 

Sagra looked around the table and nodded. The other seven members rose quietly and one by one stood in front of Krista, bowed their heads, and said, “We leave the decision to you, Krista Tay.”

 

Sagra was the last to take his place in front of Krista.  He took both of her hands in his and said, “I surmise you know that there is no Sagra Kalam the fifth. I am Sagra Kalam. Enjoy your walk, Krista Tay.”

​

​

#

 

Krista walked idly through the warren of small streets, alleys, and intricate stairways of the city of Lakal.  Hanar and Tyree trailed respectfully behind until Krista paused on a narrow bridge spanning the Nuaka River.  “The water is so clear,” Krista said. 

 

“Clear and potable,” Hanar said proudly. “Look carefully and you can see the anunu. One of our most common species of fish.”

 

“In the ocean, they’re much bigger and more varied,” Tyree said. “There is much to see. . . I mean observe – here on Iuama,” she added hurriedly. 

 

“And nature has taken some curious turns with regard to our plant and animal life,” Hanar interjected. 

 

“And so has human culture.” Tyree flicked a red braid over her shoulder.  “The cities of Tolograd and Barker's Hallow are unique in design and their lust for art and music.” 

 

Krista knew a sales pitch when she heard one.  And this was a good one. If I leave, I could inadvertently start an invasion of this beautiful world. But I already miss Lynette, Dominic  . . . Hell, even Darrowski.  

 

 

They walk together along the bank of the Nuaka through parks, past fountains, and a large, domed stadium.  “The People's Arena. A place for gathering. Music and competitions,” Hanar offered without being asked.

 

The homes and buildings made of opaque Tineke glass created a kaleidoscope of reflecting colors and rainbow arches. A symphony for the eye. Krista thought.  But there were so few children. No squeals of laughter. No shrieks of delight.  Can I change anything here? Should anything be changed?’

 

 

When the trio arrived at the Erebus shuttle Krista turned. “I have to think.”

 

Hanar and Tyree nodded with understanding. Krista entered the shuttle and sealed the door behind her. A few of the larger pieces of medical devices and cabinets of medicine had already been removed. Santa’s Sleigh, she remembered. At least I can get to the control room now.  

 

Krista paced for a bit. Then hesitated for a long time before settling at the control panel. She stared at the audio communication button. . . and pressed it downward. Krista began with a series of coughs, “Captain Kohonen this is Krista.” She wheezed. “Conditions here are worse than I–—”

 

Krista, what have you done?” Lynnette's matronly voice echoed through the shuttle. “Honey, what have you done?”

 

Good question, Krista thought. “Lynnette, Captain Kohonen, I made a choice.  I believed I might make a difference here. I still do. I would turn on the video connect. . .” Krista wheezed dramatically. “But I'd rather you remember me as I was not what I’ve become in such a short time.  It’s worse than you can imagine. Please listen to Sagra Kalam and forget about this world. . . And ask the rest of our wonderful crew to forget too. I’m going to do everything I can. And if by some miracle or stroke of luck, things change on Iuama you’ll be the first people I contact. I promise.”

 

Krista coughed and wheezed for effect.  “Lynnette please say goodbye to everyone, especially Dominic Ziggant.  Tell him I was. . . well . . . considering.”

 

Krista sucked in a gulp of air. “Goodbye Captain Kohonen, it was an honor serving with you and the rest of our crew. . . Down here, Captain, the people are looking to the sky. Holding their breath. Hoping you will do what is best for all humanity. Hoping you will heed the warning. They await your decision –– and now I wait with them.  We wait for the streak of light that says you’ve engaged the fusion engines.  Safe journey home my friends.  I will remember all of you always.”