The Serenity Deception

The Complete Four Volume

3rd Adventure of

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood

Copyright 2014, Robert A. Iannone

All Rights Reserved

Molly

An {Egg}White Christmas

Tee’ka

Mysteria and Sera’Fina

Serenity

Molly

Book1, The Serenity Deception

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood

Copyright 2014, Robert A. Iannone

All Rights Reserved

Author’s Note

In this book, we re-introduce the character Molly and her mother Jenny.

We first met them in the novella An {Egg}White Christmas

(which is only offered for sale during the month of December).

But, not to worry.

As a bonus, I have included the book at the end of this story.

Table of Contents

Prologue

From Reven

From An {Egg} White Christmas

Chapter 1 – Triskaidekaphobia

Chapter 2 – Truth and Dare

Chapter 3 – Year of Living Dangerously

Chapter 4 – Jenny and Molly

Chapter 5 – Simply Irresistible

Chapter 6 – Egg’s Ben’Edikk

Chapter 7 – Ben’Edikk Arnold

Chapter 8 – Return of 7

Chapter 9 – Shameless Mimic

Chapter 10 – Laff’Alott

Prologue

From

Reven – Book 4 of Zynn-Zaz’zia

It was just the girls . . . Egg, Sylvia, Meggy, Aeri’elle, Bl’azzz, Soo, Spirit, BreeZee, Sassi and K’ssss. They had some important business to attend to.

Egg faced the new recruits. “Bree and Spirit, do you still wish to become Hameggattic Sisters?”

“Absolutely”.

“Yes.”

“Then repeat after me, “We are the Sisters of Mystery and will protect each other from danger and keep each other’s secrets for as long as the sun shines and the stars twinkle.”

The girls spoke the words.

“By the powers vested in me as leader of this motley amalgamation of interplanetary misfits, I declare you both Sisters of the Hood.”

Surprise, surprise . . . everyone hugged everyone else.

The conversation then turned to random subjects.

“Meggy,” asked Bl’azzz, “when are you going to Earth for the operation?’

“My mother insists that I go immediately. However, I have a reputation to repair first. Perhaps the sight of a horribly disfigured former mega-brat will evoke sympathy.”

“They’ll be eating out of your hand in no time,” said Soo.

“I thought you found our earth sayings dumb,” teased Sylvia.

“True dat.”

“Spirit, what are your plans?” asked Aeri’elle. “Are you going back home?”

“That still is not an option. I guess Jynx and I will take a little tour of the galaxy. I suspect there are some sights worth seeing.”

“Is your spaceship big enough to hold passengers?”

“It is quite large. Why BreeZee?”

“I thought maybe I could go with you . . . if you wouldn’t mind?”

“I would love the company. Anyone else seeking a little excitement?”

“Excitement no, but Syl and I would love to go if we could. Maybe next time.”

“Actually, I’d like to go,” said Bl’azzz.

“Really? Why you amazing astronautical adventurer . . . if you go, so will I. That okay with you, Spirit?”

“One can never have too many friends. Soo, you and Bl’azzz are most welcome to join us.” The Thought Weaver hesitated then added, “I so did make the right choice to help the Sisterhood. I appreciate the Queen’s medal of valor . . . but my true reward is your friendship. Thank you . . . all of you.”

That too deserved and received the appropriate hugs.

“Sassi, I expect you to bring Kiss’immee to visit her namesake here on Zynn-Zaz’zia.”

“Well, of course, K’ssss. She will absolutely love seeing Wind’dancers and Nauti. And your new home is so spectacular. Does that mean you aren’t going to age . . . like Zazzi?”

“Actually my husband . . . H’sssss . . . sorry, that word still gives me shivers . . . was informed by the Circle of Life that the technology that kept him from aging has been deactivated. In fact, it has been destroyed.”

“Why?” asked Egg.

“The explosion actually had an unexpected side effect on our serpents. The jolt to their nervous system has pushed them one step closer to sentience. Now, it is only a matter of time and nurturing by Zazzi and I and the first intelligent serpents will emerge. Therefore, the great experiment nears its end. Zazzi will be able to complete his task during the remainder of his natural life.”

“But why was the thing destroyed?”

“So no one could use it to prolong life for selfish reasons. However, the good news is that the harvesting technology will not be destroyed. Perhaps one day we can figure out how it works and use it on Aerianna or Earth.”

“They would be wonderful,” said the Princess. “Please ask for any help you might need, my dear sister.”

“Thanks . . . Meggy. H’sssss”.

“Why are you laughing, you . . . you . . . you . . . rats, I got nothing.”

“Then say it.”

“Say what?”

“I give you permission . . . to say it one more time,” and K’ssss smiled.

“Why you slithering sack of silly, I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Feel better?”

“Oh, yes. Thank you.”

They grew quiet for it was about time for each to go her own way. Worse, the next time the Sisterhood was called upon to help, some of the faces wouldn’t be there.

“Maybe we need to come up with a retirement ceremony. Three of you guys are . . . I mean won’t be . . . um . . . “. The rest of Sylvia’s sentence was lost in soft sobs.

“As the next Queen of Aerianna, I expressly forbid the shedding of tears. This is a joyous occasion. The induction of two new, talented and beautiful sisters is something to celebrate. The Sisterhood is still at seven. And, think of it, we now have representatives from four worlds. We will be the stuff of legends.”

“We already are,” said Spirit.

“What does that mean?” asked Egg.

“I should have said that the Sisterhood will soon be legendary.”

“Is my newest sister peering into the future again?” asked K’ssss.

“Perhaps a quick peak.”

“And?” asked Aeri’elle.

“And . . . um . . . our fame is going to get us into trouble.”

“What kind of trouble?”

“I can’t tell. All I can say is that there is a mysterious girl who thinks she can get the better of us. And when she does, she will laugh a lot.”

“Let her laugh,” said Egg dismissing the idea. “No one gets the better of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”

“Actually . . .,” Spirit hesitated. She took a deep breath then continued “actually, and I’m sorry to say this, she will get the better of you, Egg.”

“Oh. Oh my gosh.”

From

An {Egg}White Christmas

[The complete novella is provided

at the end of this book]

A moment later, they were somewhere else.

“Welcome to Aerianna.” It was Queen Rose’Alynnia. They were all standing in the great Throne Room on Q’umulus surrounded by all the pomp and circumstance you would expect in the presence of royalty. Storm had told his friend to expect the girls, so the Queen was ready to greet them.

Without a moment’s hesitation, both Egg and Sylvia ran up and gave their friend a warm embrace. The three of them had been through so much together that the bond between them was forever unbreakable.

“Where is his lordship and Meggy?” Egg asked. She was referring to Lord Z’kkk, Dazzle’s husband and M’egg-Alynnia, her daughter.

“Out and about on some Royal business. They send their regrets but they both hope to see you before you leave. Now, let us not be rude to our guests. Egg, would you do us the honor of making the introductions?” In truth, Dazzle of course knew the names of mother and daughter but as Queen of Aerianna, certain etiquette needed to be observed.

“Oh sure. Your Majesty, may I present our friends - Jenny and her daughter Molly.” Turning to the two earthlings, she said, “Jenny, Molly . . . may I present, Rose’Alynnia, Queen of Aerianna.”

Sylvia who was now standing behind the two nudged them forward and Jenny instinctively curtsied. Molly saw what her mother did and tried almost successfully to do the same thing.

“On behalf of the people of Aerianna, I welcome you both to our world.”

Jenny continued to stare dumfounded. An instant before she had been in a shabby motel room in a little mountain village; now she was in a grand and breathtaking palace on a different world. Her mind was finding it difficult to grasp the reality of it all.

Molly on the other hand was completely unfazed. She looked up at the beautiful Dazzle and asked, “Are you really and truly a queen?”

“Yes, little one.”

“And are there really and truly dragons and sea serpents here?”

“Of course.

“And this is a floating city? Really and truly?” (That was Molly’s new favorite phrase. Really and truly, I kid you not).

“Would you like to see?”

“Oh, yes. Please.”

“Then, with your mother’s permission . . .,” and she looked at Jenny.

“I think we would both like to see . . . if that’s okay with you, your Majesty?” (She almost giggled. Here she was talking to a Queen, in a floating city on a world a billion miles from Earth. That thought would make anybody giddy and giggly).

“Of course. Take my hand little one,” and she led the group of Earthlings out of the Throne Room and on to a balcony. Picking up Molly so the girl would have a better view, Dazzle announced proudly, “I give you Q’umulus.”

“Oooooooooooh,” exclaimed Molly breathlessly. “It’s . . . it’s . . . floating”.

“What do you think Jenny? Pretty cool?” asked Egg.

When she didn’t answer, Egg, Sylvia and the Queen looked at the young mother. They were surprised to see her crying.

“Jenny, are you not well?” asked Rose’Alynnia with real concern.

“Your Majesty . . . is all this real? I’m not dreaming, am I?”

Dazzle gave the young woman her warmest smile. “No, my dear, you are not dreaming. This really is Aerianna . . . and your new home.”

Chapter 1 - Triskaidekaphobia

“OH MY GOSH . . . OH MY GOSH . . . OH MY GOSH . . . OH MY GOSH . . .”

“What is your problem?” Sylvia had just arrived at her best friend’s house. She, however, knew exactly what the problem was.

“HAM-ster, I’m thirteen years old!”

“No you’re not. Well, technically not for another hour and let’s call it twenty-three minutes.”

“HAM-bone, don’t you get it?”

“Stop with the HAM words, will you?”

“Not a chance, HAM-burger.”

“That’s it. I’m taking you back to Zynn-Zaz’zia so K’ssss or Zazzi can zap you with the Circle of Life.”

“That’s a lot of z’s,” giggled Egg.

“And you’re a lot of crazy . . . for a teenager”. Her eyes opened wide, her mouth split into a big grin and, grabbing her best friends hands, she started jumping up and down.

They were teenagers . . . and it felt amazing.

“Good grief,” said Ashley, Egg’s older sister, when she came to investigate the commotion. “Are we under attack?”

“Yes,” answered Egg who couldn’t contain her excitement. “Mobius escaped from the time trap and he’s not very happy.” Just the way she said it, exaggerating each of the last four words, caused Sylvia to fall down in hysterics.

Ashley, of course, had no idea who Mobius was nor did she know her kid sister was Flying Girl and the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood. “Well, you tell Moby that no one messes with my sister, mister (quoting from a Fandango Sally song). Now you two need to regain control . . . since you’re both teenagers.” She smiled and the other girls squealed and danced around.

“I think I know where Triskaidekaphobia came from.” It was Egg’s dad who had just descended the stairs.

Without thinking, Sylvia said, “Hi, Mr. Egg,” then put her hand over her mouth. Ashley and Egg both started to laugh. They were all kind of goofy and giddy.

“Mr. Egg?” he replied in pretend shock.

Sylvia couldn’t respond . . . she couldn’t even breathe since she was red-faced and  hysterical.

Egg calmed down enough to ask, “What’s a Tris-a-get-your-fobia . . . whatever that word you said?”

“Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of the number thirteen. Obviously, it was coined by the father of the first young girl who turned from a rational, self-controlled child of twelve into a . . . a . . . teenage slithering sack of silly.” He was smiling as he said it.

The mouths on two new teenagers dropped open. “What did you say?”

“A slithering sack of silly. Why?”

Egg looked at Sylvia who shrugged. “Where did you get that from?”

“Get it from? I didn’t get it from anywhere. It just seemed appropriate. Why? Are you offended?”

“No. It’s a phrase that a friend of ours likes to use. It’s not important.”

“Anyway, your mom will be ready in a minute. Well, that’s what she told me a half hour ago. We’re supposed to meet the Z’s at the restaurant at seven. So if you two have any last-second ablutions you need to attend to, I suggest you get a move on.”

Egg’s face scrunched. “Ablutions? Tris-a-get-your-fobia? Dad, that’s gibberish on any planet.”

“It means to wash up,” said Sylvia.

He grinned at his daughter. “I simply presumed that since you are no longer a child, I should converse with you in the language of sophistication and erudition.”

“If I didn’t have my Feminion here to translate, I would think you were talking in Serpent’s tongue or Dragon’s Speak.” She said it without thinking.

“Feminion? Serpent’s tongue? Dragon’s Speak? Is that a reference to Harry Potter?”

Egg was momentarily befuddled by the question. Like the good Feminion that she was, Sylvia came to her aid. “Yes.”

The other girl looked at her best friend. “Yes? That’s all you got?”

“Short and pithy . . . a perfect answer.”

“Pithy? Pithy? Is that even a word?”

“Egg-o, you simply have to get out more.”

“Not me. I’d be afraid to go any place where there might be Tack-toed Ticks or giant spiders or big ugly villains.” And that got both girls to howling.

“Any idea what they’re talking about?” asked Mr. Egg . . . I mean Mr. Graystone. The two girls had always been very guarded about referring to their off-world activities. But they reached a point where they didn’t care anymore. The reason was simple . . . no one ever believed them, which wasn’t too surprising.

Ashley shook her head. “I think it’s a form of insanity.”

“Hey, Mom had me tested.”

“I did, but sadly you failed.” It was Mrs. Egg . . . I mean Mrs. Graystone who had just entered the room.

“You said I passed.”

“I didn’t want to upset you,” teased her mom. “The good news is that when you turn thirteen these weird hallucinations will go away. So, in about an hour you’ll be miraculously cured. We are all looking forward to that moment with great anticipation. It’s the real reason we’re going out to celebrate.”

Mr. Graystone was becoming a bit impatient. “Okay, if everyone has regained their self-control, let’s go.”

“Dad, what about Grammy?”

“Sorry, honey. She called to say she wasn’t feeling very well. Nothing serious but she didn’t want to put a damper on the festivities.”

Egg was devastated. There was no one in the universe that she was closer to than her grandmother and namesake. That had been true even before her Grammy gave her the flying suit and jewelry that started the great adventure of her life. “I think I should call her before we go.”

“Your grandmother asked me to give you a message.”

“What?”

“She said, and I quote, ‘Tell Egg not to call until AFTER the party.’”

“No she didn’t.”

“Yeah, she did.”

Egg smiled at something she had told her grandmother on more than one occasion.  “Grammy you always know how I feel. It’s like we share one brain but in two different bodies”. To her father she said, “You’re right. That’s exactly what she would say.”

“So let’s go. Besides, there are two young men (he meant Zeke and Zack) waiting impatiently for their gals.”

“Gals?” repeated Ashley. “Gals?”

“What’s wrong with gals? It’s a perfectly good word.”

“Oh, Father . . .  you are so prehistoric.”

*****

Grammy

Egg had Ashley drop her off at her grandmother’s house very early the next day. It was Sunday and her parents were already out and about doing what they loved to do – antiquing.

But it had been a struggle . . . sleep was a beautiful thing and not something the older girl was ready to give up. “Go away,” came a pillow-muffled voice.

“Ashley, I need to see how Grammy is. She might need help.”

“Just fly over there.”

“WHAT?”

“You’re always talking about flying . . . so just do it. I won’t tell anybody.” A moment later, she added, “Give Gram a hug for me.”

“Ashley, come on. Grammy’s sick.”

“Oh drat. Yeah. Okay, you’re right. Give me a minute.”

Half an hour later, they pulled into the older Eloise’s driveway. Egg opened her door, as did her sister. “Ash, you don’t have to stay.”

“How will you get home?”

“Fly of course.”

“Right. I almost forgot. Well, I should at least come in and see how she's doing.”

“She’s probably still asleep. I didn’t want to call and wake her. I’ll just slip inside and make her breakfast. The smell of coffee will open her eyes in no time. So, go. I’ll give her a hug for you.”

The older girl smiled. “You know, for a little runt, you’re turning out to be a pretty good kid. There’s hope for you yet.”

“Did you know on some worlds, I’m considered a hero and a role model?”

“Really. I’ll give you one thing . . . you have the most vivid and bizarre imagination of any teenager I know.”

Egg gave her sister a sly smile. “What happens if it’s not my imagination?”

“Then the next time you go to one of those other worlds, you’ll have to take me. Always wanted to meet a dragon or sea serpent.”

The younger girl got out of the car then leaned in through the window. “I know just the pair. Bl’azzz is a vegetarian F’yre Dragon that’s always burping and burning. And her best friend is Soo . . . a wisecracking sea serpent. You’ll love them.”

“What, no princesses?”

“You already met one.” She was referring to Meggy whom she met on the girl’s first visit to Earth. No one knew who she really was, of course.

“Enough of this jibber-jabber. I’ve got things to do.”

“Thanks for driving me.”

“Hey, nothing is free. I’m going to hold you to your promise to take me to one of those far away planets. Don’t forget.”

“I won’t.”

*****

“Oh, my. I thought it was just a wonderful dream. That coffee smells divine.”

“Morning, Grammy,” and Egg went over and gave the woman a big hug. “How are you feeling?”

“Not too bad. I’m terribly sorry to have missed your very important celebration.”

“You had to be really sick not to go. So what’s wrong? Have you seen a doctor?”

“Sweetheart, I can tell you one thing with great certainty.”

“And that is?”

“If you don’t pour me a cup of coffee right this instant, I will go weak in the knees and fall down most ungracefully.”

Egg smiled. “Sassi and Sylvia said that’s what you did when the Mo’beye zapped you with that energy thingy.”

“Oh goodness . . . I haven’t thought about that in years.”  She went quiet as her mind replayed the events on that long ago day on Aerianna. “How quickly time goes by, my darling.”

That comment only served to remind Egg that her grandmother was getting on in age. “Grammy, sit down while I bring you the coffee.” As she walked over to the cupboard to get a mug, she asked, “So what’s wrong with you?”

“The doctor said it was an inner ear infection. It’s not serious but, unfortunately, it makes you very dizzy. He told me to spend the next few days resting and to take some antibiotics . . . and then I’ll be as good as new.” Egg placed the steaming beverage on the table. “Thank you, dear,” and the older Eloise took a long, slow sip. “That’s wonderful.”

“Why aren’t you in bed then? Would you like me to fly you upstairs?” teased the younger Eloise.

“Ha. You don’t have the power of the bracelet or ring anymore. Not even Flying Girl could lift this womanly figure.”

“Silly, you still look like a twenty-something year old girl.”

Grammy laughed at that ridiculous – though incredibly kind – remark. “Don’t I wish.” Then she asked, “How did you get here? Fly?”

“No. Ashley drove me.”

“I can’t believe she’ll start college in the fall. I’m so very proud of her for getting into U.C. Berkeley. That’s a wonderful school.”

“Yeah, but it’s in California.”

“Berkeley is just across the bay from San Francisco . . . probably the prettiest city in the country.”

“I know. I took Ashley there, remember?”

“Of course you did. That was the first and only time she met Flying Girl.”

“But she forgot . . . like everyone else.” It was the magic of the suit, of course.

“Are you going to miss her?”

“Grammy, most kids I know don’t get along with their brothers or sisters. But Ashley and I always did. It’ll be lonely when she’s gone.”

“Well, you two will have the summer to spend some quality time together before she leaves.”

“I’m not sure she’ll want to spend much of it with me. She and her doofus boyfriend are a loving couple again. Barf.”

“Really. His name was Brad, wasn’t it?”

“Still is.”

That remark caused Grammy to laugh. “Well, you just need to make her an offer she can’t refuse.”

“Like what?”

“I’ve given this a lot of thought, dear one. I think you should share your secret with someone else. If I get sick or am unable to move around, I might not be able to provide a cover story for you when you need to go off on one of your quests.”

“Grammy, please don’t talk like that.”

“Sweetheart, I’m getting older, as are you. It’s just a fact of life. So, let’s plan for the inevitable future that, sooner or later, will be upon us.”

“Only if you promise it’ll be later.”

“Can’t promise . . . but I’ll give it my best shot. Anyway, I think that someone should be your sister.”

“You want me to tell her I’m Flying Girl?”

“More than that. Take her to Aerianna to meet your friends.”

Egg smiled. “Maybe I’ve said this before . . . but it’s like we share one brain in two bodies.”

“You’ve thought about telling her?”

“Actually I already have. Syl and I swore never to talk about Flying Girl or the Hameggattic Sisters to anyone. Then we realized it didn’t make any difference – no one would believe us. So, we bring it up all the time. In fact, just after Ashley dropped me off, I told her that on some worlds I’m considered a hero and that she’d really enjoy meeting Bl’azzz and Soo.”

“Did you now? And how did she respond?”

“She laughed but said that if I go back I should take her.”

“Then I think it’s settled.”

Egg smiled again. “On one condition”

Grammy returned the smile. “Of course I’ll go with you. Besides, I need to be the one to tell her why you are Flying Girl. . . and she is not.”

“Oh my gosh. You’re right. Think she’ll be mad?”

“Only one way to find out.”

*****

An hour or so later, with her grandmother safely tucked in bed, Egg flew to Sylvia’s house. She landed away from prying eyes and knocked on the door.

“Hello, Egg,” greeted Mrs. Hampton.

“Hi, Mrs. H. Is that ridiculously smart daughter of yours up and about?” It was still late morning and Sylvia was famously known to wake well after noon.

“Apparently her brain requires more sleep than the rest of us mere mortals. You have my permission to go up and rouse her anyway you can.”

“I love a good challenge. Here goes,” and the girl bounded up the steps, down a hallway to her best friend’s bedroom door. She didn’t knock – she just opened it as quietly as she could, slipped inside, closed the door then ‘flew’ onto the bed. Unfortunately, she misjudged her leap, hit the far edge of the mattress, and bounced off. She landed on the carpet with a respectfully loud thud.

“OUCH.”

From the depths of her sleep, Sylvia cried, “No, no, no, Mobius. It wasn’t me, it was Egg.”

“Nice,” was Egg’s sarcastic response. She got up, brushed herself off, went to the bathroom and returned with a quarter of a glass filled with water. “Mobius, it was Egg,” she mimicked then poured the liquid on her friend’s head.

Nothing happened. How strange and not a little disappointing.

Egg leaned over to see if her friend was still asleep. Bad move. Sylvia’s arms shot out, grabbed the other girl and tossed her over the bed.

Another respectfully loud thud preceded her “OUCH.”

“Serves you right. Why did you pour water on me?”

“’Cause you told Mobius I did it.”

“What?”

Egg explained it to her.

“Oh. Sorry,” came the sheepish reply.

“I forgive you. Besides we have more important things to discuss.”

Sylvia yawned then looked at her alarm clock. “It’s not even noon.”

“Remember what happened to me when I wasted time.”

“Yeah. Reven gave you a time out. Oh, alright. Talk . . . but I’m not getting out of my pajamas.”

“As your best friend, I just have to tell you that they’re really ugly.”

“My pj’s?”

“Yeah. They have little ducks on them.”

“I like ducks.”

“Oh my gosh . . .  you’re a teenager. Teenagers don’t like ducks.”

“That’s not true. I do.”

“You’re giving me a headache.”

“Eloise Graystone . . . you’ve got ten seconds to tell me why you woke me up or I’m going back to sleep. And you better not say pajamas.”

“Grumpy.”

“EGG!”

“Alright already. We need to talk about Ashley and boys.”

Chapter 2 – Truth and Dare

“We always talk about boys.”

“Then I’ll start with Ashley.”

“Is it because she’s going away to college?”

“Not exactly. Grammy thinks I should tell her about Flying Girl and the Sisters.”

“Really? Why?”

Egg frowned at the memory of that conversation. “She says she’s getting older and there might come a time when she can’t cover for us if we have to go off and save some world.”

Sylvia was Egg’s best friend for a reason. She leaned forward and hugged the other girl. “That won’t happen for years and years.” Egg felt her eyes begin to tear up. “And like always, Grammy’s suggestion is perfect.”

“You think so?”

“Of course. Now that Ashley’s going away to college, you and I can go visit her whenever we need to leave for Aerianna or wherever. But she’s only the backup – you know, plan B – if Grammy’s ever feeling . . . um . . . under the weather. I bet we never have to use her.”

“Thank you.”

“I mean it. Nothing’s going to happen to her for a long, long time.”

“I know.”

“So how will you break this to Ashley? Just promise me that I get to be there.”

“Actually you can’t.”

“Why not?”

“Grammy first has to explain to Ash why she picked me to be Flying Girl and not her.”

“Ohhhhh. That could get a little ugly.”

“What happens if Ashley holds it against me? You know that I took away her chance to be Flying Girl . . . I would be devastated if that came between us.”

“Well, I’m guessing that Grammy’s smart enough to figure out how to do this without hurting your sister’s feelings.”

“Hope so.”

“Then after you tell her, are you taking her to Aerianna to meet everyone?”

“Grammy and I are.”

“What about me?”

“You’ll already be there to greet us.”

“I will? Why?”

“For giggles.”

“I like it. So . . . let’s move on to your favorite topic. Boys.”

“Zeke is boring.’

“Don’t sugar coat it . . . tell me how you really feel.”

“Zeke is boring.”

“This is the same guy you took to the Crystal Mountain, the guy who helped you rescue Dazzle’s body, the guy who rode with you on the back of Storm. That boring Zeke?”

Egg put her head in her hands. “I guess it’s not him . . . it’s me. I’m bored.”

“Egg-o, you can’t be off roaming the galaxy fighting bad guys all the time.”

“Why not?”

“Let’s see . . . you’re thirteen, you haven’t even finished high school, your family is here on earth and you would have to do it without me.”

“You wouldn’t go with me?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“'Cause I’m thirteen, I haven’t finished high school, my family is on earth and I want to go to college.”

“Syl, how do you do it?”

“Do what?”

“Be a kid on earth and hero out on other worlds. Here you have to face the mind-numbing horror of Angela and Presley; out there, you get to pal around with amazing sisters from three other worlds and face incredible dangers and do amazingly good things. All I can think about is our next adventure.”

“Egg, we always have this conversation. Heck, last time it took us two years to go back for a visit. So . . . let’s make a pact that we’ll go back at least once every month or two. That should keep you from going stir-crazy.”

“Oh, alright. I guess that’ll have to do. But you have to promise me we’ll spend most of the summer on Aerianna.”

“If Grammy can cover for us, I’m in.”

“Terrific.”

“I do have one condition.”

“What’s that?”

“Tell me you like my ducks.”

*****

The following weekend at Grammy’s Farm

“Hi, Gram. How are you feeling?”

“Perfectly fine now, thank you. And thank you for coming to spend the day with your grandmother. The three of us haven’t spent time together like this in forever.”

“It’s an honor and a privilege to be included in your little secret society,” teased Ashley. That caused Egg to giggle. “Did I say something funny?”

“More ironic than funny,” replied the older Eloise.

“I’m getting the feeling there’s a conspiracy afoot . . . and I’m to be the victim.”

“Well phrased and well deduced,” responded Grammy.

“Okay . . . what’s going on with you two?”

“All in due course. First, congratulations again on your acceptance by UC Berkeley. Have you decided what subject you will major in?”

“Thank you and economics.”

“Egg dear, did you know that Ashley’s new school is ranked in the top ten in economics . . . in the world?”

“Really. That’s pretty impressive.”

“Au contraire  . . . it is very impressive. What’s equally as impressive is that they only accept the brightest students. Your dear sister has proven herself to be very, very intelligent.”

Now this might seem like an unusual conversation, but Grammy had called Egg the day before and told her to ‘play along’ no matter how boring things became. She knew her granddaughter all too well.

“Yeah, Ash is definitely the brains of the family.”

“Gram . . . where are you going with this?” Ashley was becoming even more suspicious.

“I just wish to point out that Egg and you share many wonderful qualities . . . but are very different in others. She, for instance, does not have the intellect that you have but does have what you young people call streets smarts.”

Egg’s “True dat” caused her sister to bark out a laugh.

“She’s also impulsive, a born leader and incredibly lucky . . . to mention a few of her more endearing attributes.” Grammy raised her hand to stop Egg from standing and taking a bow. “You, Ashley, are the thinker. You do not overreact to a problem. You take the time to analyze it, gather the facts and weigh the possible solutions. Would you agree?”

“Nailed it. I’m the thinker and little Sis is the doer.”

“You were always that way . . . from a very early age. That is why I chose Egg and not you.”

Ashley’s face scrunched in confusion while Egg held her breath. The moment of truth was upon them.

“Gram, what are you talking about? Chose Egg for what?”

“To be Flying Girl.”

There were a number of different reactions you might expect . . . but Ashley’s was probably not among them. The girl stood up and walked over to the big, comfy couch that her grandmother was sitting in. She sat down and put her arm around her. “Grammy E . . . you’ve been under the weather for almost a week. The medication the doctor gave you probably has some side effects. Egg and I are going to drive you to the emergency room so they can have a look at you. We’ll be with you the whole time, won’t we Egg?” She looked at her younger sister – concern and alarm plainly etched on her face.

Egg stood up as if she was about to join the other two on the couch. Then she started to giggle. In a matter of seconds, she was rolling on the carpet, laughing so hard that her face was turning a very deep shade of red.

“EGG,” screamed an outraged Ashley.

“She does tend to show her emotions,” said Grammy. Turning to Ashley, she continued, “Love, it’s not the medication, I can assure you. Now, please return to your seat . . . that goes for you too, little Eloise.”

“Sorry, Grammy. Sorry, Ashley.”

“Enough of this foolishness, you two. What is going on?”

“When I was eight or nine, my grandmother called me to her house. We went up in her attic where she kept an old chest. She opened it and pulled out a suit and three pieces of jewelry. Then she told me the strangest story. In short, the suit allowed the wearer to fly. It also protected that person from being recognized because after an hour, whoever saw you would forget.”

“Come on Grammy. You’re talking nonsense.”

“Actually, you experienced it firsthand.”

“What do you mean?”

“If I told you that for the last three years you’ve had dreams of San Francisco, would that impress you?’

“How could you know that? I never shared that with anyone.”

“Egg . . . if you please.”

“I took you, Sis. You had broken up with Brad and were crying and upset. So I put on my flying suit and took you there. We had a great time. After we got back, I used the power of the bracelet so you would forget about how much Brad had hurt you. I also made you forget about Flying Girl and the trip . . . but a memory always seems to remain. It happened to Sylvia too.”

“I don’t even know how to respond to that.”

“We have posed a problem to you, dear one. Gather the facts, analyze them and come to your own conclusion.”

“Okay. I’ll play along. Why did the suit go to Egg and not Mom?”

“I had always believed that after seven years it lost power and needed fifty years to recharge. Therefore, it had to skip a generation. Your sister found out later that we were mistaken.”

“How so?”

“Wrong question for now.”

Ashley smiled. This type of intellectual game was right up her alley. “Fine. So you passed the suit to Egg because you thought by temperament she would be better qualified to wear it. Action over intellect. I can accept that.” (Egg breathed a big sigh of relief). What about the jewelry?”

“Right question. I never could figure out what they did. However, Egg . . .”

“There was a bracelet, a ring and a necklace . . .”

“Wait a minute. Didn’t I see you wear them that day you were playing dress-up?”

“Yeah. You wanted to borrow them . . . it really freaked me out.”

“I bet. So, if the suit lets you fly, what about the jewelry?”

“The necklace has a translation crystal in it. I can speak and understand any language. The ring when worn on one hand let me change size, on the other, it gave me great strength. The bracelet on one wrist gave me the power to cure, on the other one — the power to control wild animals.”

“Well, those are weird powers. Why would someone need them?”

Grammy smiled “Another good question. Egg . . .”

“To fight Mobius.”

Ashley’s eyes went wide. “You said something about him the other night. Oh, the night of your party. Um . . . you had trapped him and he wasn’t very happy about it.”

“Wow . . . you’d make a great Feminion.”

“That’s the other thing you said. Sylvia was your Feminion and Dad thought you were referring to Harry Potter. What is a Feminion? Wait . . . she’s like an advisor. It has to be someone smart and . . . and loyal. That would definitely be Sylvia.”

“Wow, again. That was amazing.”

Ashley was beginning to get caught up in the mystery. “So, there’s a flying suit and the jewelry whose power Grammy couldn’t figure out, but Egg did. Wait, let me think. Um . . . wait, wait, wait. I may be way off base, but just let me say it. The suit didn’t lose power, it just went dormant because whoever wore it couldn’t figure out the purpose of the jewelry . . . they failed the test. So it was programmed to go dead for fifty years until two generations had passed . . . then it would let a new person try. In this case, it was Egg. And she figured it out.” She looked from face to face. “Am I close?”

“No dear, you’re not close . . . you are exactly right.”

Egg ran over to her sister and gave her a big hug. “You are too much.”

Ashley returned the hug with great affection. “Apparently not ‘as much’ as you are.”

“If you two are ready, we should complete the story.”

“Okay, so Egg passes the test. The next questions have to be ‘who made the test’? What was the purpose of the test? And where did the suit come from?”

“Excellent. Egg, please tell your sister the rest.”

“It’s really long so I’m going to give you the very short version first. The suit is made of serpents crystals . . . from the planet Aerianna. It circles one of the stars in the constellation we call the Seven Sisters.”

“That’s about a trillion miles from earth. How did it get here?”

“A space portal . . . and they invented it and I’ve used it but have no idea how it works.”

“You mean it’s still functional?”

“No, Dazzle shut it down 'cause I don’t need it and somebody might find it.”

“And Dazzle is . . . ?”

“Okay, this is going to sound a little bizarre.”

Ashley laughed. ”It can’t be any more bizarre then what I’ve already heard.”

“Oh, yeah it can . . .,” and Egg told an abbreviated story about Dazzle, the Sisterhood and the Quest. She even mentioned Zynn-Zaz’zia. “And that’s the short version.”

By this time, Egg was sitting next to Grammy and they both waited patiently while Ashley digested the information.

“Okay, that is one amazing tale. Now . . . give me the proof.”

Egg stood up. “Ring, tend to my suit,” and the gray mist swirled out of nowhere and covered her. A second later, it was gone and there, in all her glory, was Flying Girl.

“OH MY GOSH. OH MY GOSH. OH MY GOSH.”

“Is that the way I sound?” teased Egg.

“Well, sweetheart, one last piece of evidence should suffice to convince you.”

“No?”

“Yes.”

“Now? To Aerianna?”

Egg took Ashley’s hand in her right, Grammy’s in her left. “By the way I think it’s more than a trillion miles.”

“How long does it take?”

“Blink of an eye. Ready?”

“Of course not . . . let’s go,” and she squeezed her sister’s hand.

Egg pressed her ring . . . and everything winked out. A moment later, everything winked back in . . . but they were still standing in Grammy’s living room. “That’s weird,” and she pressed it again. Same results.

“What’s wrong?” asked Ashley.

“I don’t know. This never happened before.” Just then, Egg’s communications crystal came alive.

“Egg.”

“Syl . . . where are you?”

“Home. My ring doesn’t work.” She sounded horrified.

“Mine neither. If you figure out the problem, call me back.”

“Okay. How’d it go with Ashley?”

“Up until this minute, really well. Listen, I gotta go . . . talk to you when I can.”

“What was that all about?” asked the older girl.

“Syl was going to be there to greet us. Her ring isn’t working either.”

Ashley shook her head . . . disappointed that this silly story hadn’t ended like it was supposed to and that she was gullible enough to believe it in the first place. “Well, I’ll give you one thing . . . the suit trick was pretty neat.”

Ignoring her sister, Egg asked Grammy, “What do you think is going on?”

“I have no idea, Sweetheart but it is very disturbing. Without the ring you can never get back to Aerianna unless someone on the other end reopens the space portal.”

“Okay, you two . . . make believe is over. That was quite a show. Kudos; I fell for it.”

Egg was getting annoyed which was unfair to Ashley. Nevertheless, she took Ashley’s hand and dragged her to the kitchen. “What are you doing?’

“Just be quiet and come with me.”

Egg opened the backdoor and stepped through with her sister. “You want kudos . . . well, try this on for size,” and she leaped skyward towing a screaming Ashley. They landed in less than a minute.

“Come inside, you two,” commanded Grammy who had watched the little flight with amusement.

“I’m sorry,” were Ashley’s first words.

“It is an extraordinary story . . . doubting its truth is what any rational person would do. No need to apologize.”

“Grammy . . . this isn’t going to work.”

“What isn’t, Egg dearest?”

“If we went to Aerianna, I would change out of my suit then Ash would remember the whole thing . . . but we didn’t. So the suit will make her forget what just happened. An hour from now she’ll remember the story we told her . . . but not me as Flying Girl and definitely not the little flight we took. Sorry, Ash.”

“Sweetheart, that’s not true. Need I remind you that your sister shares your DNA. Our DNA.”

“Oh yeah . . . I forgot.”

“What are you two talking about?”

Grammy looked at her eldest granddaughter and said, “The three of us are descendants of Rose’Alynnia, Queen of Aerianna, former Knight Guardian of the Order of the Crystal Egg and honorary member in perpetuity of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”

Chapter 3 – Year of Living Dangerously

Ashley smiled. She liked the sound of that. “What was she like?”

“Is, not was,” said Egg. “Remember, I put her back together . . . well, I mean I had the Myst Tree put her back together after Zeke and I rescued her body.”

“Hang on. I think I missed that part. You and Zeke? Your boyfriend? He’s been to Aerianna?”

Egg giggled. “Yeah, I kind of tricked him. He helped me get Dazzle’s body out of the Crystal Mountain. Then we flew to Se’rene on the back of Storm.”

Now it was Ashley’s turn to giggle. “Do you realize that every time you explain one thing, it raises at least a half dozen other questions. Like what is serene? How do you ride the back of a storm? Does Zeke remember what he did? Why did you even ask him to help? And if you gave me another few minutes I’d think of a couple more.”

Before the girl could explain, Grammy said, “We can get into the fascinating details of Egg and her exploits in a minute. However, I have a couple of things that need to be said. Please, both of you sit down.” The girls did as they were asked. “Thank you. First, Ashley you may never talk of this with anyone. Not with your parents, a boyfriend, not even your husband when you do marry. Neither Egg nor I will back you up so at the very least they will think you are as crazy as you thought I was. Please tell me you understand?”

“I do, Gram. Your secret is safe with me.”

“It is yours also. No one will ever know that you are descended from royalty.”

“Oh yeah. Too bad.”

“The second thing that needs to be said is directed at both of you. Egg, you may never ask your sister to join the Hameggattic Sisterhood and Ashley, you may never accept such an invitation.”

“Why?”

“Why?”

“What the Sisterhood does is dangerous business. But Egg has her suit and her ring, which affords her some protection. Ashley, you do not. Even if you did, I will not tolerate having both of you placing yourselves at risk – regardless of the cause. I want your solemn oath. Both of you.”

There was silence for ten or fifteen seconds. Ashley broke it first and said, “You have my word.”

“Me, to – I guess.”

“Thank you. Both of you. Now, since we still have half a day left . . . and apparently no place to go . . . I think Egg should get her diary and the three of us can discuss the adventures of the Hameggattic Sisterhood. It will be a good time to get all of your questions answered, Ashley.”

“Sounds great.”

“No it doesn’t,” said the easily bored Flying Girl. “Grammy, would you mind terribly if I took Ash to see her new college?”

“That’s thousands of miles away. How fast do you fly?”

“Pretty fast,” replied Egg with a grin.

“I think that is a wonderful idea. Just be back in time for lunch . . . say two hours.”

Ashley was dumbfounded. “You’re kidding, right? Never mind, never mind.”

“Let’s go Ash. It’s time for school,” and they walked out the back door, hugged Grammy and bounded into the air. Unlike the last time, the older girl didn’t scream . . . she just marveled at the passing scenery.

“Egg, this is incredible.”

“Not really. However, this is,” and she went straight up through the clouds, the atmosphere and into space . . . about the height where satellites fly. “Scared?”

“Of course not . . . terrified.”

“There’s California . . . let’s go find Berkeley.” Flying Girl dove down as fast as she could and this time Ashley did scream. Mere seconds later, they found a secluded place to land. It was Saturday so there were no classes and few students walking about.

“Ring, tend to my suit,” and Egg returned to her jeans. “Okay, Sis, I got you here . . . now show me around.”

“This is my first visit too. But, um . . . over there is the Sather Gate that leads on to the campus. Let’s walk through it.

A hundred or so steps later, they were in the middle of a beautiful campus and looking up at the Campanile . . . a three hundred foot tall bell and clock tower.

“Well, it’s different than what I expected,” observed the not easily impressed Flying Girl. “Pretty neat . . . for a school.”

“Yeah it is.” Ashley was beaming. This would be her home for the next four years and she couldn’t have been happier. “Let’s walk around.”

*****

They were back at Grammy’s in under two hours.

“Well, how was the Berkeley?” asked Grammy.

“Gram, it was magnificent . . . just the way a university should look. I’m so excited. I can’t wait for the fall semester to start.”

“And you, Egg . . . did you find it interesting?”

Her semi-enthusiastic response was, “It was nice.”

“High praise, indeed. Well, if you two will give me a hand, lunch is ready to be served. And, I do believe we have a lot to talk about.”

“I’m starving,” was the predictable reply from Ashley.

“You’re always starving. You sound like K’ssss and Soo.”

“Which ones were they?”

“Sea serpents.”

Ashley shook her head. “Amazing. Simply mind-boggling, brain-freezing amazing.”

“Grammy, I’m going to try my ring again,” and she did. The world blinked out and then blinked back . . . and she was still in her grandmother’s kitchen. “Rats.”

*****

“I’ve tried the ring like a million times and still nothing.”

“Egg, I don’t think it’s the rings.”

“Syl, what else could it be?”

“Take my hand.”

“Take it where?”

“What?”

“Where do you want me to take your hand?”

“You’re such a goof. Take my hand as in take hold of it.”

“I knew that. I was just pretending to be Soo and not understanding stupid earth sayings.”

Sylvia giggled. “They are kind of dumb. Anyway, take it,” and she extended it to her friend.

“Okay. So?”

“Watch,” and Sylvia touched her ring. The world blinked out but when it blinked back, they were standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon. “See?”

Egg peered over the side. “Long way down. What’s your point?”

“Egg . . . think.”

To her credit, it took less than ten seconds. “Oh, the ring works . . . but only on this end. Something on the other end . . . on Aerianna . . . is stopping us from materializing there. Right?”

“Yup.” Sylvia touched her ring and they were back in her bedroom.

“So what does that mean?” asked her friend.

“I don’t know. Something is happening on Aerianna . . . and it must be big.”

“Like what . . . a storm?”

“Maybe but not a hurricane type storm. Could be there’s some kind of event on their sun and it’s disrupting . . . um . . . whatever it disrupts which is stopping us from going there.”

Egg shook her head. “No idea what you’re talking about but . . . it sounds pretty good. So all we have to do is wait for it to pass. How long do you think?”

“It could be days or weeks or years or even longer. I have no idea.”

They looked at each other but they were at a loss for words. Egg finally said what was on both their minds. “I guess I’ll try to talk to Storm or the Myst Tree in my dreams. Maybe they can tell us what’s going on.”

“I hope it’s not anything really bad.”

“Probably not,” answered her friend. “I’m not getting any goose bumps.”

*****

There was a gentle knock on the door. Then another. Then a third but this one was louder. Finally, “Egg . . . Egg . . . are you awake?” whispered Ashley.

“No.”

“What? What did you say?”

“I said, no.”

“No, what?”

Egg forced herself to sit up. She looked at her clock, rubbed her eyes, then looked at it again. It still said seven. “Ash, what do you want? Is something wrong?”

“Can I come in?’

“It’s not locked.”

The older girl opened the door then closed it behind her. She went over to her sister’s bed and sat down. “Good morning, sleepyhead” she said cheerfully.

“Ash, it’s seven o’clock. What’s going on? Is everybody okay? Is Grammy sick?”

“No. No. No. Nothing like that. Everyone is fine.”

“Then why are you up this early? It is morning, isn’t it?”

“Yes, silly.”

“Well?”

“I want to ask you for a favor.”

“At this hour?”

“Yeah, while everyone is sleeping.”

“Are you going to tell me what you want or do I have to guess?”

“Someone is grumpy, isn’t she?”

“ASHLEY!”

“Sorry. I need to go to Italy.”

“What?”

“For my Art and Religion class. We’re studying Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper and I want to see it for myself. Pictures of it just don’t convey its age and majesty. If I can see it in person, I’ll be able to write a better paper. Please.”

Egg was annoyed but not much. That fact that her sister needed her help . . . well, technically Flying Girl’s help . . . made her happy. She hadn’t done a good deed in a very long while. “Okay, let me wash up. Come back in two minutes.”

Ashley giggled. “This is so cool.”

Fifteen minutes later, they had found the city (Milan) and the Church (Santa Marie delle Grazie) and landed.

They went inside and found what they had come to see . . . the five hundred year old masterpiece by one of the most brilliant minds the world had ever known – Leonard Da Vinci’s Last Supper . . .

You didn’t need to believe in any one religion to appreciate the genius of the man and his mural. Ashley’s “wow” said it all.

*****

Over the next few months, Egg tried her best to dream of Storm or the Myst Tree, but with no luck. And the rings still failed to work, as they should.

The only thing she could count on was her sister’s requests to visit strange and exotic places. At first, it was fun and she readily agreed to each.

“Egg, let’s go stand on top of the world.”

“Where’s that?’

“Mount Everest, silly.”

“Egg, I just have to see the Acropolis.”

“The crop of what?”

“The Acropolis . . . in Athens.”

“Egg . . . “

“Where to now?”

“There’s a colony of penguins in the Antarctic that we just have to visit.”

“Penguins?”

“They’re so cute.”

But after a while, it stopped being fun and became work. She just had to put her foot down.

“Egg . . . let’s visit Katmandu.” (pronounced cat-man-do).

“No can do.”

A few weeks later, “How about Timbuktu?”

“No, I’m washing my hair.”

Then in April . . .

“The Great Pyramid . . . we just have to go.”

“No. Ever since K’actus Kiln, I hate the desert.”

Before she knew it, summer had arrived and nothing had changed. The rings refused to work, no one visited in her dreams, and Ashley kept begging at least once a week . . .

“Please, please, please . . . take me to Venice.”

“Did you say Venus?”

“No, Venice . . . in Italy.”

“No.”

In July, the request was “Paris in the summer. Doesn’t that sound so romantic?”

“Been there, done that. No.”

As the end of summer rapidly approached – as did her upcoming start to college – Ashley pleaded for trips to such places as Angel Falls in South America, Moscow, Australia, Stonehenge, Easter Island, and the Moon.

Her last request finally got Egg’s attention. “Little Sis, I leave in two weeks. How about a quick trip to Saturn? Just us gals?”

“Get your coat.”

But the next time Ashley came to her room, it was with some very troubling news. “Egg, let me in.”

“Go away, Ash. Sightseeing tours are over.”

“No. This is about . . . you know where.”

“Where?”

“I can’t say it out loud . . . I promised Gram.”

That rang a bell. Egg leaped off the bed and unlocked the door. Ashley came in carrying her laptop. “Look at this,” and she played a YouTube video.

“What am I looking at?”

“They say that there was some kind of event on Alcyone. That’s Aerianna’s star.”

“What do you mean an event?”

“They don’t  know. All they can tell is that there’s a huge power emission . . . possibly from a super nova.”

Now Egg got her goose bumps. “What’s a super nova?”

“It’s when a star explodes. It destroys all the planets that circle it.”

“What are you saying . . . Aerianna’s been destroyed.”

“I’m so sorry, little Sis . . . but that is a very real possibility.”

Egg stared at her sister then she began to tremble uncontrollably. And then she screamed, “NOOOOO.”

*****

They were all sitting in Grammy’s living room . . . Egg, Sylvia, Ashley and Grammy, of course. Everyone was trying desperately to come up with a different explanation as to what was happening back on Aerianna.

“It can’t be a super nova,” stated Sylvia with absolute conviction.

“Why not dear?”

“Because stars just don’t explode like that . . .,” and she snapped her fingers. “They go through years and years of discombobulating behavior. I read that on Wikipedia.”

“And what is a Wikipedia?”

“Oh, Grammy. That’s the place where all human knowledge is,” said Egg as if she were talking to a five year old.

“I see. I didn’t know that.” It was very difficult not to laugh but she managed.

“Do you think the bad guy . . . that Mobius . . . found a way to come back and take his revenge?” asked Ashley.

Egg looked at Sylvia who shook her head no.

“I wonder how long it would be for me to fly there?”

“No dear one. That’s literally on the other side of the galaxy. I will not permit it.”

“Well, I have to . . .,” but she didn’t finish. They heard a most familiar popping sound. Everyone looked at the far end of the room where the air had begun to shimmer.

“What is that?” asked a nervous older sister.

“It’s the portal. It’s the portal,” screamed Sylvia.

Sure enough, there appeared a tine black dot that began to expand. A few seconds later, the mouth of the portal was floating in Grammy’s living room . . .

“Should we go through?” Egg was smiling from ear to ear.

“No. They’re obviously going to send someone to us,” replied her Feminion.

Everyone waited expectantly . . . however, Ashley had her hands covering her mouth in nervous anticipation of what might step through. Finally, a head began to appear . . .

“K’SSSS,” screamed two earth girls.

“What is it?” muttered a terrified Ashley under her breath.

“Hi, Egg, Sylvia. Hello, Grammy . . . wonderful to see you again.”

“I heard of your transformation and marriage. Congratulations on both. How are your husband and the children (referring to the serpents under her care)?”

“Everyone is fine. Thank you for asking. I apologize for intruding . . . I see you have company. If I might suggest, you may wish to get her a glass of water. Apparently she is finding the sight of a sea serpent a bit unsettling.”

Ashley had taken to wearing Egg’s translation necklace because . . . well, because  it was beautiful and alien. “I . . . I can understand it. How brilliant is that?”

The serpent looked at Egg. “Is she expecting me to answer that question?”

“No, silly. Just another dumb earth saying. Anyway, why are you here? What’s going on back on Aerianna? Is everyone okay.”

“Everything is fine. But shouldn’t you introduce me to your guest?”

“Sorry. K’ssss, this is my sister Ashley. Ashley, this is K’ssss – one of my Hameggattic Sisters.

“Pleasure,” said the serpent.

Ashley was simply speechless. When she was finally able to speak, all she could say was, “She looks like a big eel.”

Chapter 4 - Jenny and Molly

“H’sssss”.

“ASH. That’s mean.”

“I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry. Please forgive me.” Dealing with beings from other worlds was going to take some getting used to.

“Nothing to forgive. I know earth doesn’t have sentient serpents so it must be a bit disconcerting.” Turning to Grammy, she asked, “May I join you?”

“Of course. Please come in and make yourself comfortable. Is there something I can get you?”

“H’sssss. I would love some chocolate if that isn’t asking too much.”

“Not at all. What kind . . . or in what form . . . do you wish?”

“I’ll probably not have another opportunity to return to Earth. If it’s no trouble, as much variety as you might have.” She turned to her sisters and said, “This is so exciting.”

“I can imagine,” replied Sylvia. “Never thought you’d visit our little planet.”

“H’sssss. Not that . . . I was referring to the chocolate.”

Ashley followed the conversation with her eyes wide and mouth opened. If she ever thought about meeting an extraterrestrial (someone from another planet), this scene wasn’t it. She felt a great urge to touch K’ssss . . . to feel the skin of an alien creature. “Egg . . .,” her sister looked at her. “Would she mind if I pet her? She doesn’t bite, does she?”

“Oh my gosh, Ashley. Now do you see why Grammy gave me the flying suit?”

“What did I say?”

K’ssss was very amused. “I am a member of a sentient species. My I.Q. if you were to measure it, would be  . . .,” she couldn’t remember the Earth phrase so she looked at Sylvia.

“Off the charts,” the girl replied helpfully.

“Thank you. Off the charts. It’s actually the reason I’m here.” Turning to Egg, she said, “You know how time runs differently on Aerianna than on earth or anywhere else?”

“Yeah, the time distortion thingy.”

“Correct. We on Aerianna age about six years to every one elsewhere. Well, that annoyed me so, with Dazzle’s permission, I fixed it.”

“I have no idea what that means. How could you fix time?”

Grammy used that moment to turn to her oldest granddaughter. “Still want to pet her?”

“GRAM,” growled Ashley. “You’re embarrassing me.”

“The science is pretty confusing so unless someone wants to review the formulas . . .,” she looked from face to face. “Didn’t think you would. Anyway, in simple terms, our solar system was traveling too slowly. I was able to use the power locked into the Crystal Mountain to nudge everything up to its proper speed. It took almost two years but now it’s done.”

“Meaning what?”

“From now on, for every year that you age, we on Aerianna age the same amount. The last time you saw Meggy she was twelve like you. Now you guys are almost fourteen while she’s almost twenty-four. However, in two years you’ll be sixteen and she’ll be twenty-six.”

“That’s really great. I hated to see Sassi getting so much older than us. And Dazzle too. Nice job you . . .,” she turned to Sylvia for help.

“You super smart sea serpent.”

Egg rolled her eyes. “That was just awful. Where’s Soo when you need her?”

“Grammy, what are they talking about?’

“I’ll tell you later.” The older Eloise turned to K’ssss and asked, “I presume that the great amount of energy required to move the entire solar system somehow affected the girl’s rings.”

“Yes. That’s why I’m here. Dazzle was afraid that you guys might be worried. I would have come before I fired off that mountain, but I didn’t think about your rings. Sorry.”

“You’re forgiven, you loveable, learned leviathan.” Egg turned to Sylvia. “That’s how it’s done.”

“Pul-leese.”

“Listen guys, I have to get back. Your scientist will detect the portal and freak out. So, come visit as soon as you can. Oh, Ashley, would you mind terribly if I gave you a hug . . . I don’t bite.”

The older girl blushed scarlet. “Kill me now.”

“Why would I . . . oh, stupid earth saying.”

So hugs were exchanged, Grammy gave K’ssss a basket filled with a dozen different types of chocolate (mostly leftovers from Halloween) and the serpent departed the way she had arrived.

Once the portal had disappeared, Egg, Sylvia and Grammy turned as one to look at Ashley. They were teasing but the girl didn’t know that. “I said I was sorry. Come on, give me a break. How was I to know she wasn’t someone’s pet? Okay. Okay. Okay. You’re right. I could have caused an intergalactic incident. My bad.”

“True dat.”

*****

It was Ashley’s last weekend before her parents drove her to California. It was also her last chance to visit Aerianna. So it was now or never.

The little gang of four was back at Grammy’s. “Syl, take Ashley. Grammy, your hand please. Everyone ready? Then let’s do this thing . . .,” and the world winked out.

A heartbeat later, they were standing on one of the balconies on Q’umulus.

“OH. OH. OH.”

“Pretty spectacular, isn’t it?.

The other girl couldn’t  stop gawking at the sights. “How far up are we?”

“Two miles. Come on, we shouldn’t keep the Queen waiting.”

Ashley didn’t move . . . in fact she fell to her knees. “I don’t think I can.”

“Why not?”

“It’s too much.”

“What is, dear one?”

“Gram . . . all of it. Floating cities, intelligent sea serpents, a girl that can fly, and a ring that transports us across the galaxy. Egg, Sylvia – how do you do it?”

“Do what exactly?” asked her younger sister.

“How do you go back home and act like normal teenage girls when you’ve seen and experienced all this?”

“It’s really hard for me, Ash. Sylvia handles it much better.”

Before the conversation could continue, the girls heard a familiar voice.

“Hi, Egg, Sylvia. And Grammy, it’s wonderful to see you again,” and she hugged the older woman (who had her own translation crystal).

“And you, Aeri’elle. May I introduce my oldest granddaughter and Egg’s sister. This is Ashley. Ashley this is Aeri’elle.”

Ashley forced herself to look up at the face of the dragon . . . and fainted.

Aeri’elle shook her head in disgust .“Humans.”

Oh my,” cried Grammy. “Quickly, fetch a doctor,” and she knelt beside her granddaughter and held her head in her lap.

“This young lady (she pointed to a girl standing unnoticed a few yards away) is studying to be a Medicus (Aerianna’s term for doctor)”.

“May I?” she asked Grammy.

“Of course”.

The girl, who appeared to be about the same age as Egg and Sylvia, knelt down and began to examine Ashley. A moment later, she looked up at the anxious faces. “She’ll be fine.  The first time you look down from Q’umulus, or see your first dragon, can be quite overpowering. It was for me and my mom.” She stood up, looked Egg in the eyes and grinned.

But it was Sylvia that came to the right conclusion. “MOLLY?”

The girl didn’t say anything. She just stepped forward and hugged Sylvia then turned and did the same to Egg who was staring wide-eyed at the girl.

“Oh my gosh. Little Molly . . . you’re, you’re not little.”

“I outgrew it,” teased the girl. “It’s so wonderful to see you guys again. My mom’s going to be thrilled.”

“How is she feeling?”

“Perfect. She’s inside with the Queen.” Egg and Sylvia had met Molly and her mother Jenny while doing a social science project. The short version of the story is that Jenny had been very ill and dying. So the girls had taken mother and daughter to Aerianna with the expectation that Princess Ss’ong would adopt the girl when the unspeakable occurred. However, the Myst Tree at Sighing Whorl intervened unexpectedly and cured Jenny.

By this time, Ashley regained consciousness. “What happened?”

“Apparently, I scared you senseless,” teased Aeri’elle.

And, like before, Ashley was mortified. She stood up and looked at the dragon. “I’m very sorry; that was incredibly rude. Involuntary but rude. I hope you’ll forgive me. My name is Ashley and I’m Egg’s sister.”

“I’m pretty used to the weird things humans do . . . so no apology is necessary. And, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“Aeri’elle is a professor,” said Egg proudly.

“What do you teach?”

“History.”

“Ash, Grammy . . . this is Molly. Remember the girl I told you about . . . the one whose mom was really sick?”

“Hi,” said the red-haired girl.

“Sorry to interrupt . . . but Dazzle’s expecting us.”

“Lead the way, big bird,” replied Egg.

Ashley looked at her sister and mouthed ‘big bird’. Her sister just giggled.

They walked the short way to the Throne Room where two Sentinels opened the door and announced, “Your Majesty, Egg of Earth, her Feminion Sylvia, her Grandmother Eloise and . . .,” he didn’t recognize Ashley, “. . . and her honored guest,” he added smoothly.

In the past, the girls would have run up to the Queen and given her a big hug. But, they were no longer girls . . . at almost fourteen years, they were young ladies.

As usual, in respect to the two most famous heroines of the planet, everyone applauded. The girls smiled instead of blushing and waved. Ashley just gawked.

The party from earth approached the throne and everyone curtsied.

“My sisters, it is a pleasure as always.” The girls walked forwarded and gave their friend a hug.

“Where’s Megg?”

“Off world, I am sorry to say. She sends her best wishes.” The Queen turned to Grammy and said “Eloise, you are looking well.”

“I am well, your majesty. May I present my oldest granddaughter, and Egg’s sister, Ashley.”

The girl curtsied again . . . promising herself she would comport herself with more dignity.

“Welcome to Aerianna, Ashley.”

“Thanks . . . I mean thank you, your Majesty.”

“I believe you know this person . . .,” and Rose pointed to Jenny.

She was definitely older but still young and attractive . . . and very healthy looking. The girls walked over and each gave her a hug. “Jenny, Molly’s beautiful.”

“Thanks to you and Sylvia, she’s thriving on Aerianna,” and she gave them each another hug.

A burst of banging from the ceremonial lances of the Sentinels caused everyone to look up. It was Lord Z’kkk and another blue-skinned person trailing behind.

“Your Majesty, Lord Z’kkk and Prince Ben’Edikk”.

“That’s Meggy’s brother?” asked Sylvia under her breath.

“Kind of cute.”

“Oh, yeah.”

Lord Z’kkk made his way up to the Queen, hugged the girls, shook hands with Grammy and accepted an introduction to Ashley who was staring at the still very handsome, blue-skinned man.

“May I present my son, Prince Ben’Edikk.”

With complete poise of a trained diplomat years older, the young man stepped forward and bowed to each of the earthlings. When the introductions were completed, he turned back to Egg and said in a voice that could melt butter, “My mother refers to you as Egg while my father calls you Eloise. How would you prefer that I address you?”

Egg stared at the handsome face. But all this pomp and circumstance was just too much for her. “I’d be happy with a ‘Hey You’.”

Z’kkk stole a quick look at his wife who smiled with amusement. Sylvia hid her face in her hands. Grammy’s eyes went wide in horror. Ashley scrunched her face in confusion . . . that didn’t seem like a way to address a Prince.

But Ben’Edikk was truly poised and not even Egg’s goofiness could put him off. “Such a phrase would not serve to honor the Heroine of Aerianna and the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood. I ask your pardon, but I shall follow my father and refer to you as Eloise. Would that please you?”

“Wow.”

“I am sorry?”

Sylvia poked her friend in the ribs. “Ouch. I mean, yes, that would be great.” She turned to Sylvia and gave her an ‘are you satisfied now’ look.

Rose interrupted any further silliness. “Sisters, we will have a small reception for you in a few hours. I am sorry, but other than Aeri’elle and Sassi, there are no other Hameggattic Sisters on planet.”

“Where did they go?” asked Egg.

“K’ssss is back on Zynn-Zaz’zia, Soo, Bl’azzz, Spirit and BreeZee are off wandering the stars, and my daughter as I mentioned has gone on a diplomatic mission to a world we recently discovered.”

“She’s okay, isn’t she?” The last time anyone went on a diplomatic mission, they were captured by Mobius.

Rose laughed. “She is very well. The inhabitants are peaceful and friendly.”

“Glad to hear it.”

“In the meantime, we have arranged  a tour of Q’umulus for Ashley and Eloise. Sylvia, Molly and Jenny would like to spend some private time with you.”

“I’d like that.”

“I guess I’m going to do something else?”

“Yes, Egg. I would have you visit the Myst Tree at Sighing Whorl.”

“Great. I never got a chance to thank him for sending Spirit to help out.”

“I ask that you take Ben’Edikk with you.”

“Okay. Why?”

“He has never met the Tree. In fact, he has been unable to penetrate the Myst at Sighing Whorl. I am hoping the Tree will admit both of you.”

“Then what?”

“Then you will make the proper introductions.”

*****

“Okay, I’ll see you guys in a few hours.”

“Egg . . . he is so cute,” observed Ashley. “Just like his father.”

“I wouldn’t flirt with his Lordship . . . you might make Dazzle mad. And, she’s got a real mean-looking sword.”

“No. Of course not. I only meant . . . “.

“Ash, lighten up. I was teasing.”

“Egg.”

“Yeah, Syl?”

“Behave yourself.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means that if you make his mom angry, she’ll take out that sword and whack off your head.”

“No she wouldn’t. Would she?”

“Enough. I’m anxious for my tour,” said Grammy. “Come on, Ashley.”

*****

“How do you suggest that we proceed?” asked the Prince.

“Your choice . . . walk, swim or fly.”

Ben’Edikk stared at the girl. He had never met anyone quite like her. “I would be honored to fly with Flying Girl. I presume that I just need take hold of your hand?”

She held it out and he took it. The sight of his blue fingers entwined with hers gave her goose bumps. That was never a good sign. “Ready?”

“Of course.”

She leaped skyward, over the edge of the floating city and headed towards the mountain range. Ben’Edikk looked down . . . the full two miles to the ground below and, without realizing it, gripped Egg’s hand a little tighter.

“Scared?”

“Certainly not. Fascinated.”

“How about now?” Like she had done to Ashley, she flew straight up and out of the atmosphere then dove straight down to the valley known as Sighing Whorl . . . and landed.

“Here we are.” She glanced over at him then giggled. He looked a little blue in the face. That of course was his natural color.

“Something amusing?”

“Your hair . . . it’s sticking up a bit.”

Chapter 5 – Simply Irresistible

“Grammy, is this your first tour of Q’umulus?” asked Aeri’elle. She had volunteered to be their guide. The Queen thought that Ashley would appreciate the dragon’s knowledge of Aerianna history.

“I have seen parts of it . . . but never on a guided tour. This is very exciting.”

“How many times have you been to Aerianna?” asked her granddaughter.

“Well, let me see. The first time I came was to get a feel for what Egg was getting involved in. That’s when I met Sassi, K’ssss and Soo. Unfortunately, that visit ended rather badly. I was attacked and captured by a Mo’beye.”

Ashley shook her head in amazement. “Gram, I never would have guessed you were the adventurous type.”

“Then you obviously need to spend more time with me,” and she smiled at the girl. “Anyway, I came back for the Queen’s coronation and wedding. Both affairs were breathtaking. The last visit was to meet the Princess and escort her back to Earth.” That reminded her of something.  “Aeri’elle, Megg was supposed to come to earth for that operation but never did. Would you know why?”

“I was told she went elsewhere. She and the Queen  decided it would be a grand diplomatic gesture if she had doctors from another world – one we wish to have commerce with – perform the surgery. That’s where she is now.”

“I see. Certainly sounds reasonable.”

“Our first stop ladies is near and dear to me . . . the Galleria of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.” She stood up taller and prouder when she said it.

“Really? Has Egg seen it?”

“No, Grammy. She’d just get embarrassed. You know how she is – hates the attention and the accolades.”

“She is very sensitive about being thought of as special.”

“I probably need to spend more time with her too,” said Ashley.

“Your sister adores you, sweetheart.”

That almost made the girl cry. The hero on two worlds looked up to her . . . how extraordinary was that?

“Here we are,” said the dragon. “Ladies, if you would,” and she opened the door.

The first thing to greet them was a terrifying sight . . .

“Geez!” exclaimed Ashley at the floating image of the Evil One. Grammy just stared in horror. No description from Egg’s diary could ever do justice to the hideous figure in front of her. The thought that she had allowed her nine-year-old granddaughter to face this man made her sick to her stomach. What had she been thinking?

“Cheese?” asked Aeri’elle misunderstanding what Ashley had said. “That’s not cheese, it’s Mobius . . . the bad guy.”

“What? No, no . . . I said geez not cheese. It’s just an exclamation of surprise.”

“Oh, sorry. Anyway, this is the loveable loser that we fought twice . . . and beat twice.”

“How in the world did my nine-year-old sister do that?”

“She’s brave, fearless, lucky beyond reason and she had a little bit of help from six other girls.”

“Of course she did,” said Grammy always sensitive to the feeling of others. “Each of you had an important role . . . a true team effort.”

“Thank you Grammy.”

“I’m sorry, Aeri’elle. I didn’t mean to imply it was all Egg’s doing.”

“You have every right to be proud of her. I am.” She hesitated then asked, “May I share a story with you? It’s one that no one else has ever heard.”

“Please. That would be wonderful.”

“But you must promise to keep my secret . . . not even Egg, can be told.” Both ladies agreed.

“Egg assigned me the role of stealing the Crystal Egg. Whoever possessed it could command limitless power. Once I had it, I flew to Sighing Whorl to return the thing to the Myst Tree. When I arrived, I found dozens of injured dragons . . . including my father. He was in great pain and there was nothing I could do for him. Then the Myst Tree spoke to me. He said that with the Crystal Egg, I could cure my father and the others. All I need do was think it.”

She paused as she relived the memory. Grammy, however, had a hunch where this story was going. “You didn’t do it, did you? You refused to use the power.”

Aeri’elle shook her head. “No, I didn’t. I had promised your granddaughter that I wouldn’t. I could never break that promise. I was . . . I am . . . a Hameggattic Sister. That’s why it’s going to be so incredibly difficult to tell Egg.”

“Tell her what, dear one?”

“That I must resign from the Sisterhood.”

*****

Sighing Whorl

“It is a foreboding place, is it not?”

“Foreboding?”

“Yes . . . ominous, dark sinister.”

“I know what it means.”

“Then why did you ask?”

“How old are you?”

The Prince was momentarily taken aback. He really wasn’t used to anyone being so familiar with him. He certainly was no mega-brat like his sister had been. But he believed in royal protocol, in following the traditions of the nobility. “Is my age of some importance to the task at hand?”

“Listen, if you want to talk like that, fine. Just don’t do it around me. You sound weird for a kid.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Fifteen or sixteen?” she asked.

“I shall be sixteen in a few weeks.”

“Do you ever talk to Meggy?”

“Meggy? Are your referring to my sister, the Princess M’egg-Alynnia?”

“How many other Meggys do you know? Of course, your sister.”

“Our paths cross occasionally.”

“OH MY GOSH. Listen to yourself. Your paths? She’s your sister and a member of the Hameggattic Sisterhood. She can teach you a lot about dealing with people. Trust me.”

“I resent your tone of voice.”

“I resent your stuck-up attitude.”

“You have a very disagreeable and altogether displeasing personality.”

“You have the warmth and charm of a mannequin.”

“I dislike being addressed in this manner.”

“I dislike being talked to like an ignorant school girl.”

“I find your whole demeanor uncivilized and distasteful.”

“I find you . . . to be the cutest guy I have ever seen.” She leaned forward and gave him the briefest kiss . . . on the lips.

She stepped back, blushed a very pretty scarlet for what she had just done and stared at him defiantly.

He returned the stare for a few seconds then said, “I see. Well, now that we have settled our differences, perhaps we should attempt to pay a visit to the Myst Tree.”

“That’s it. That’s all you got? I just kissed you . . . you . . . you infuriating, irritating, immature idiot.”

Ben’Edikk’s eyes twinkled, then he smiled at her . . . and somehow his face transformed from movie star handsome to heartthrob gorgeous.

And Egg fell in love.

*****

Q’umulus

“Oh dear. May I ask why?”

“Grammy, I’ve been offered an incredible opportunity . . . one that I simply can’t pass up.”

“Please, continue.”

“Queen F’Aerianne . . . “ She saw the confusion of Ashley’s face so she quickly explained, “She is the Queen of Dragons. Before the Crystal Egg, she ruled my kind, King E’ssss and Queen S’eeee ruled the Serpents and King M’earth, Rose’Alynnia’s father, ruled humans.”

“Thanks. I was getting confused.”

“Of course. Anyway, on Aerianna we have universities for each race but none for all races. So dragons attend their own schools while humans and serpents attend schools for their own kind. My Queen finds this unacceptable. She feels that we are missing an opportunity to keep the three races involved with one another . . . to insure that prejudice between species doesn’t re-emerge. With Dazzle’s support, my father and I have been asked to build and run a new university; one that serves all three species. It is a wonderful challenge and a very worthy cause.”

“I should say it is. Congratulations, Aeri’elle. I know you will succeed. Hameggattic Sisters simply refuse to allow failure to be an option.” She walked over and gave the dragon a hug.

“You’re very kind, Grammy.”

“I’m sure my sister will understand,” said Ashley.

“Of course, she will. But of the seven original sisters, K’ssss is gone to Zynn-Zaz’zia, Sassi is home with her family and now I’ll be off on this project. It’s very sad to see the Sisterhood slowly fade away.”

“What about BreeZee and Spirit?”

“They’re great. Like Megg, they just weren’t on the Quest. They weren’t there in the beginning.”

“Who will replace you, dear one?”

“Therein lies the other problem. The Sisterhood needs to have seven active members. It’s tradition. I was kind of hoping Ashley might consider joining.”

“That’s incredibly flattering . . . but I can’t.”

“May I ask why?”

“I’m nowhere brave enough to begin with. Just the picture of Mobius will give me nightmares for a year. More importantly, I promised my grandmother that I wouldn’t . . . assuming I was ever invited to join.”

“Why, Grammy?”

“I will not put two grandchildren at risk. That would be unconscionable.”

“You’re right. I should have thought of that.”

“What about Molly?” asked Ashley.

“I don’t know her very well. But, I doubt if her mother or the Queen would allow it.”

“Why?”

“Sorry, I won’t engage in gossip . . . that would be catty. And I can tell you from experience, I don’t ever wish to be a cat.”

“Huh?”

*****

Elsewhere on Q’umulus

“It’s so hard to see you like this. You were such a cute little girl.”

“Ouch,” answered Molly feigning hurt.

“Oh, no, no, no. You’re beautiful now but you’re all grown up. You’re fifteen . . . how weird is that? You’re older than me and Egg.”

“I agree . . . that’s pretty weird.”

“So tell me everything.  What’s it like living on another planet?”

“Planning on moving here?” teased Jenny.

“Believe me, Egg and I talk about that all the time. If we didn’t have families back on Earth, we’d do it in a heartbeat.”

Jenny was the first to volunteer an answer to Sylvia. “As to your question, I’m great friends with Ss’ong and Sassi. The three of us are inseparable. I was beside myself with worry when Sassi was captured. I should have known that the famous Hameggattic Sisters would rescue one of their own.”

“And do you work . . . or just lounge around all day with important people eating exotic foods?” teased the girl.

“I’ll have you know that I teach at Aerianna’s equivalent of elementary school. I love it. The children on this world are different then on Earth. Seems like they are all family oriented and love to learn. The biggest difference however is there are no video games or TV.”

“Yikes. How barbaric,” and all three laughed. “What about you, Molly? Studying to be a Medicus?”

“No, not really. I am learning about healing but I won’t become a full doctor. I’m actually learning to be a lady.”

Well, that was a provocative statement. “What does that mean exactly?”

“Mom, you tell her.”

“Okay. The Queen has bestowed a title on Molly and me. I am now . . . hang on to your hat . . . the Countess of Earth-Shire and my daughter is the Marquesa. We are royalty. How’s that for a change in fortune?”

“On behalf of my dearest friend, let me be the first to say OH MY GOSH. That is too amazing.”

“I’m guessing Ss’ong, better known as Princess Ss’ong and Rose’Alynnia’s beloved younger sister, may have had something to do with it. She refuses to answer my questions on the subject which, of course, is an answer. Please don’t tell anyone except Egg. The Queen hasn’t announced it yet.”

“Mum's the word.” Sylvia was still smiling at their good fortune when she asked, “Remember that awful room where we first visited you?”

“That was the worst,” answered Jenny shaking her head at the dreadful memory.

“Actually, Molly’s wall filled with scribbles was pretty bad, too,” and all three laughed again.

“Hey, my red, fire-breathing dragon was pretty good.”

“Bl’azzz would have loved it.”

“I think the best time was when we all walked out on the balcony and looked down from the dizzying heights of this city. That’s when I really felt that Molly and I had been delivered from our old life and into this one.”

“No, Mom. The best time is when the Myst Tree cured you. Without my mother, this – or any place – would never seem like home.”

*****

Sighing Whorl

“To be kissed by the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood is an experience and a memory I will treasure always.”

Polite but insincere and definitely not very romantic . . . and Egg knew it. “Well, just forget it. It was an accident,” she replied lamely.

“Ah. You must have stumbled into my face. Quite a common occurrence. We shall speak of it no more.”

“Jerk.”

“Sorry?”

“Nothing. Let's get this over with. Take my hand . . . “

He took it, then pulled her close and returned the kiss. It was as brief as the one she had given him. When he stepped back, he apologized. “Sorry, I am inexperienced at this sort of thing.”

Egg was having a hard time breathing. She finally managed to squeak “s’okay.”

Flashing another one of his incredible smiles, he asked, “Shall we pay the Tree a visit?”

“Um . . . tree,” she was trying to focus but she couldn’t.

“The Myst Tree.”

“Oh. Oh, yeah. Okay. Here we go,” and she stepped into the fog that protected the valley dragging the Prince behind her.

They followed a worn path until they reached their destination . . .

“Hey, Tree . . . it’s me; Egg of Earth.”

“Always a pleasure, my young friend.”

“I wanted to thank you for sending Spirit to help us. She’s great. In fact, she’s now a Hameggattic Sister.”

“You are most welcome. As to Spirit, I was aware; but thank you for telling me.”

“Um . . . Mr. Tree may I present Ben’Edikk.” The boy cleared his throat noisily. “I mean Prince Ben’Edikk, son of Dazzle and Z’kkk.”

“It is an honor, sir. On behalf of my mother, Queen Rose’Alynnia, I wish to thank you for all that you have done for the people of Aerianna.” As always, he was very smooth, very polished and not in the least fazed by the way the Tree communicated.

Awkwardly, the Tree did not respond. Ben’Edikk’s poise was beginning to crack.

“Egg, tell this young man he is not yet worthy to address me. The Hameggattic Sisters and the Queen are the only ones to have earned that right.”

“He didn’t hear that?”

“No. And Egg, enjoy your vacation but be aware that what is may not be. Remember, she who laughs last, lasts best,” and the Tree went silent. As usual, the girl had no idea what his riddles meant. She just shrugged knowing that sooner or later, she’d figure it out.

“Why did he not answer me? Should I repeat my greeting?” asked the boy who was now in full panic mode. He wasn’t used to failure.

“Come on, let’s go.”

“No. I command you to ask the Tree why he did not respond. I was thanking him for his help . . . surely he took no offense?’

“Ben . . . let’s go,” and she started to walk out of the valley.

He hurried to catch up. “Why will you not talk to him. My mother commanded you to do so.” Sadly, he was beginning to sound a bit whiny.

She stopped and turned toward him. “He said you were not yet worthy to talk to him. He’ll only talk to the Sisterhood and your mom. Now let’s go.”

It’s hard to tell on someone with blue skin, but Ben’Edikk blushed from embarrassment.

Chapter 6 – Egg’s Ben’Edikk

The flight home was uncomfortably quiet but mercifully quick.

Egg had an overpowering urge to hold the boy . . . to comfort him. However, she knew in her heart that would be the absolutely wrong thing to do. Instead, she landed on a secluded balcony so she could talk in private.

“Listen, Benny . . .”

“Please, do not call me that. It is demeaning.”

Now she wanted to slap him but resisted that urge as well. “Anyway, the Tree can choose whoever he wants to talk to. And he only wants to talk to people who have fought for this world, for its people. He’s here to protect Aerianna so he naturally likes anyone who’s done the same. It doesn’t mean you’re not a terrific kid . . . I mean a terrific Prince. It only means that you haven’t had a chance to prove yourself. Give it time. You’ll be awesome, I know it.”

To his credit, the boy looked Egg in the eyes while she talked. Most of us would have wanted to hang our head and sulk. Not Ben’Edikk. At least, not in public. “Thank you, Egg. Eloise. I can see why you are the leader of the Sisterhood. Why you are the honored Heroine of Aerianna. Perhaps I can learn from your experience.”

She liked the sentiment . . . but he phrased it more like Lord Z’kkk. She would have to teach him to lighten up. “Whatever I can do, just ask. Promise?”

“I do. I would ask one favor now. Please do not tell my parents about this encounter with the Tree. I will do that.”

“Sure.”

He turned to leave then stopped. “The trip was not a complete failure.” He smiled that ridiculous smile again and Egg got chills. Or was it goose bumps? “I kissed a most extraordinary young lady.” He nodded, turned and walked away.

Egg was smitten. Head over heels smitten. “Oh my gosh. OH_MY_GOSH”.

*****

She went back to her room to freshen up. When she entered, she found a package with a note. It read, “Egg, this little gift is my way of apologizing again for messing up your ring. I thought since every human girl should have a change of clothes, this might do the trick. Just clip the crystal to your belt and think of a color. Love, K’ssss.”

“What the heck?” but she pulled out the tiny crystal and placed it where the note said. “Okay, um . . . blue.”

She looked down and gasped.

“How cool is this? Okay, Yellow.”

She tried every color she could think of but settled for the first one – blue.

“K’ssss, you giant, generous genius, I love you,” she said to her reflection in the mirror. She adored her flying suit, but it did get boring. And unlike Spirit who had only one outfit, Egg preferred as many as she could afford.

“I wonder which color is Ben’s favorite.” Then she laughed . . . what color would a blue-skinned Prince like? She thought she could figure that out.

*****

Galleria of the Sisterhood

“Enough about me. Let me show you some of what’s in here. My favorite is on that wall. Come take a look.”

They walked over to find paintings of the original seven sisters. Naturally, Egg was in the place of honor. “They love my sister, don’t they?” asked Ashley proudly.

“There isn’t a person, dragon or sea serpent on Aerianna that does not think she is deserving of every accolade they could bestow on her. The fact that she hates the attention makes them love her even more.”

“I will say it again, dear one. For as wonderful as my granddaughter is, she would never have accomplished anything without the Sisterhood.”

The dragon smiled (showing her two rows of razor sharp teeth that caused Ashley to take a step back). “Grammy, as always, you’re too kind. Anyway, what’s really interesting is that the pose of each sister was voted on by the others. Egg and Syl didn’t get to vote since they weren’t here.”

“How fun. Could you explain why they were chosen? It’ll give me a better idea of who you guys really are.”

“Love to. So first, and foremost, is Egg. But we decided to show her in Dazzle’s old outfit instead of her flying suit. That’s Queen F’Aerianne’s castle behind her and the place where we gathered the Shades of Night before the final battle . . .”

“What a cute costume. I bet there’s an interesting story behind it?”

“I’ll let her tell you. Next is Sylvia. But she’s with Egg for three reasons. She’s Egg’s best friend, and her Feminion. More importantly, this is a copy of the photograph from Egg’s diary that helped her remember poor Syl after she was bitten by the Tack-toed Tick. Without it, we could never have beaten Mobius.”

“Little Sis doesn’t look very happy.”

“She really didn’t like Sylvia when they first met . . . when this was taken at camp.”

“Next we have Bl’azzz doing what Bl’azzz does best, burp and burn.”

“Egg said she’s a F’yre Dragon that’s vegan. How weird is that?”

“Vegan?”

“Vegetarian.”

“Yeah. Take it from me, it may sound noble, but the results are far less so. Anyway, here we have Sassi. Egg always says she’s the most beautiful girl she’s ever met. I’ll have to take her word on that. Being a dragon, I admit that to me you all look alike.”

“She’s breathtaking.”

“This is actually a self-portrait. Sassi’s quite the artist. Next is  Soo’nami otherwise known as Soo. If you haven’t heard, she’s the unofficial wisecracker of the Sisterhood. You might think that we came up with this ridiculous pose just to be mean. Sadly, she always looks like this.” She smiled as she said it.

“She’s a lot thinner than K’ssss, isn’t she?”

“Actually K’ssss is a lot heavier than Soo . . . or most sea serpents. The girl used to love to eat eels. Now, all she eats is chocolate. Speaking of K’ssss, here she is in the Crystal Forest. Did you know she sacrificed herself to save the others from a Ding ‘bat?”

“A what?”

“Ugly flying creature. If it bites you, you turn into one. Just goes to show you that you can’t tell what’s inside a person by what’s outside. K’ssss was, is, over-weight and back then, not very bright. But she saved the Sisters six or seven times. We owe her a lot. And now, she’s a super-scientist after the Circle of Life did its thing.”

“Circle of Life?”

“Best ask Egg.”

“And finally, here’s yours truly . . .”

“Ashley, that is the infamous Crystal Mountain in the background. It is where Mobius kept the Queen’s body.”

“If I remember the story, Egg was the only one to reach it. Aeri’elle, can I ask why your sisters put it in your painting?”

The dragon’s eyes beamed with pride. “I sacrificed myself to save Egg from the monster AyBee. Had I not, the Quest would have ended in failure. My sisters did me great honor with this painting.”

“An honor well deserved, my dear. Well deserved.”

Since there was so much to see, they picked up their pace and completed most of the tour in two hours. By this time, Grammy was exhausted. “Aeri’elle, my dear, I believe that I’ve run out of steam. You two can continue on but I’ll need to rest before the reception. It wouldn’t do for me to fall asleep in the presence of the Queen.”

“I’m sorry, Grammy. How inconsiderate of me. Your rooms are not far from here let me show you. And Ashley, what is your pleasure?”

“I would love to find a place to sit and just take in the incredible sight of this floating city. Perhaps you would join me and we could continue my history lesson?”

“Sounds perfect. I’d like that. Oh, by the way, in your room is a translation necklace, a gift compliments of her Majesty.”

“Oh, how thoughtful. I’ll be sure to thank her.”

*****

“Egg, you in there?” Sylvia knocked again. “Egg?”

The door opened and there was Flying Girl . . . in blue. She pirouetted and asked, “Like it?”

Sylvia smiled. “I like the red one better, but this is certainly a nice change. Did they make you a second suit?”

Instead of answering, she said “Yellow” and the suit changed color. “Red” and it did it again. “Blue” and it was back where it began.

“Okay, that’s a pretty neat trick. Let me guess . . . has to be an invention from K’ssss. Right?”

“My Feminion continues to impress. Nice deduction.”

“How weird is it that she’s married and a super genius? Who’d of thunk it?”

“I know, right. But if anyone deserves it, she does. Anyway, close the door I’ve got something to tell you.” Just the thought of what she had to say made her blush.

Sylvia saw it. “Eloise Graystone . . . did you kiss him?”

“Oh my gosh, would you stop doing that.”

“Doing what?”

“Stop knowing everything. Sometimes you freak me out.”

“It’s a gift, what can I say. Now spill it. I want every last detail.”

They jumped on the big, comfy bed. “Well he was really obnoxious . . .” and she went on to tell her friend all that happened. “So to make a long story a little longer, I’m in love.”

“No you’re not.”

“Yes, I am. Why would you say that?”

“You don’t even know what love is.”

“And you do?”

“No; how would I? I’m almost fourteen not twenty-four.”

“You don’t have to be twenty-four to fall in love.”

“Egg, I don’t doubt that you have a crush on him, but one walk in the park isn’t enough to know if you’re in love.”

“Really?” said the girl sarcastically.

“Really. I read it on the internet. Besides, I think you have competition.”

That made her heart beat a little faster. “What do you mean? Who?”

“Molly.”

“NO.”

“We had a great long talk. First, hang on to your hat, the Queen is making Jenny and Molly royalty.”

“NO.”

“Jenny’s going to be the Countess of Earth-Shire and Molly will be a Marquesa . . . whatever that is."

“Well, that’s nice.” Normally she would have been super happy for her friends but not if she was competing with one of them. Her old urge to win was beginning to creep back into her subconscious.

“Yeah, it is very nice. Anyway, we talked for a couple of hours and Molly found a way to bring up the Prince’s name every chance she got. And, just like you, when she did, she would blush.”

“But she never said anything about loving him, did she?”

“Of course not. If for no other reason her mother was right there.”

“Good point.”

“Egg, she’s really nice. She grew up to be super sweet. None of this royalty stuff has gone to her head.”

“Don’t forget to throw in the fact that she’s drop dead gorgeous too. Makes me want to scream.”

“Since you’re already feeling badly, I’ll add a little salt to the wound. Molly lives on Aerianna and you don’t.  Talk about your long distance relationships. They never work . . . I read that on the internet too.”

“But I’ve got one thing going for me. If he has to choose between Molly and me, Dazzle’s going to tell him to pick me. So would his Lordship.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course. Heck, if for no other reason than they kind of owe me one.”

“They owe you at least two – don’t forget Zynn-Zaz’zia.”

“Do you think he’ll like me in blue?” and she stood on the bed and pirouetted again.

“If he likes you, it won’t matter what color your outfit is.”

*****

The Royal Sitting Room

“Mother, Father . . . I have returned.”

“Come in, Son,” said Z’kkk. “How did you fare? Did you get to greet the Myst Tree?”

“I am sorry to disappoint you, Sir . . . but I have failed.”

Z’kkk looked at his wife then back to his son. “Well, there is no knowing what motivates the Tree. I take it Eloise was unable to get you into the valley.”

“No, Sir. We had no problem in that regards. She led me to the Tree, greeted and thanked him for his assistance then introduced me.”

Rose asked, “And you gave the Tree your message?”

“I did but he chose not to respond.”

A mother always knows when her child is troubled. “Please, my son, tell us the rest.”

“Egg . . . Eloise . . .  asked him why and according to her — I was unable to hear the dialogue — the Tree found me unworthy.” The Prince finally looked like the boy that he really was. Rose, as Egg before her, wanted to embrace him, to comfort him. But that would have been the wrong thing to do. “Egg said that the Tree will only talk to those who have fought for this world . . . the Sisterhood and you, Mother.”

“Son . . .”

“Yes, Father?”

“She is correct. The Tree will not speak to me.”

The boy’s eyes got very wide, surprised by what he had just been told. “Really and truly?”

“Really and truly. When Mobius usurped the throne from your grandfather, I was turned into the Wraith K’aos. In essence, I fought for the bad guy.”

“Mother, then why did you send me if you knew I would not succeed?”

Rose smiled. “I believe you answered your own question.”

The boy thought for a moment until her meaning became clear. “You wished me to fail . . . to know disappointment. But why?”

“Because life is filled with success and failures. You must learn how to embrace both. Enough for now. Egg’s reception will begin shortly. Please go change . . . but nothing too formal.”

“And we will make both announcements at this affair.”

“Yes. Does that please you?”

“Of course. The taste of defeat and accomplishment all in one day . . . I shall savor the memory forever.”

“You make me proud, Ben’Edikk.”

“Both of us,” added his father.

******

“Molly, are you’re ready?’

“I’m so nervous.”

“Are you sure you want to go through with this?”

“Absolutely.”

“Then, my little girl, let’s do what no one from Earth has ever done before.”

That reminded the girl why all this was even possible. “Mom, how do we ever thank Egg and Sylvia?”

“I don’t know. We owe them everything. Hopefully, we’ll think of a way.”

“Let’s start by making this reception really special.”

“You’re a good daughter . . . and a good person.”

Chapter 7 – Ben’Edikk Arnold

When it involves a Queen, nothing is simple or commonplace. Aeri’elle had collected the four ladies from Earth and escorted them to the reception hall. As if by magic, the door was opened just as they arrived by a Sentinel, while another banged his lance.

“Your Majesty, Egg of Earth, her Feminion Sylvia, her Grandmother Eloise and her sister Ashley. They are escorted by Aeri’elle, a heroine of Aerianna and member of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”

“That was a mouthful,” whispered Egg to the others.

“Be nice,” chided her best friend.

“I’m always nice.”

Egg led her little gang up to the Queen as protocol dictated. “Your Majesty” said Egg trying desperately not to laugh . . . not for Dazzle’s sake but for Ben’Edikk who was standing to her left.

“My friends from Earth, welcome.” She then looked at Egg and smiled. “Is that a new outfit?” she teased.

“This old thing, no. K’ssss has been up to her new tricks. Watch,” and Flying Girl went through the colors of the rainbow.

“Very impressive. Our dear K’ssss has certainly turned out to be full of surprises.”

“Which color do you like Dazzle?”

“Allow me to defer to my son.” She looked at the boy and said, “Prince Ben’Edikk, which color do you find more attractive on the Leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood?”

“Your Majesty, you present an impossible conundrum to your humble servant.” (Need I say it? Egg rolled her eyes). “Our beloved Flying Girl (Oops, Egg misunderstood the word beloved. It’s not meant the same way as just love) would shine radiantly regardless of the color of her clothes. However, my personal favorite . . .,” Egg smiled knowing what the answer would be, “. . . is the original red. It is the image etched in the minds of every Aeriannian.” (Egg’s heart dropped).

Rose’Alynnia smiled and said to the gathered guests, “It was a question very few men could answer correctly. The Prince chose diplomacy and for that I acknowledge his skill. However, as all the ladies will understand, wearing the same outfit day in and day out is a horrifying prospect. Egg, my dear sister, since there is only one flying suit, K’ssss’ gift is the perfect compromise. I personally thought the blue particularly attractive.” She paused and spread her hands, one pointing to her husband the other to her son, “. . . but of course I am prejudiced.”

Everyone laughed . . . whether they thought it was funny made no difference. When the Queen jests, you laugh.

Unfortunately, Egg was mortified. Being the butt of a joke is never easy. Less than a minute into her little party and everything was going wrong. Hopefully, it wouldn’t get worse.

“Ashley, I see you are wearing the translation necklace. It looks perfect on you.”

“I cannot thank your Majesty enough for such a wonderful gift. I will treasure it always.”

“You should know that my scientists have altered the original design. This necklace will only work for you . . . it is keyed to your DNA. Should someone else attempt to use it, they will be unsuccessful.”

“That’s very clever.” In truth, you never tell a Queen her idea was good . . . it is a foregone conclusion that she only has excellent ones. It’s not the place of someone of lesser rank to validate the Royal cleverness. It was something Molly had learned as part of her education in ‘becoming a  Lady’.

“Eloise, did you and your granddaughter enjoy the tour of our fair city?”

“It is truly spectacular. I especially appreciated the Galleria of the Sisterhood.”

“I thought you might.”

“Grammy, what’s that?”

“If we get the chance, I’ll show you.”

“Sylvia, how was your visit with Jenny and Molly?”

“We had a wonderful time. It’s terrific to see both of them doing so well.”

“They have been a pleasing addition to court. I thank you and Egg for bringing them here.”

“And you, my dearest sister, did your visit to the Myst Tree go well?”

Yikes, that was an awkward question. “The Tree can never stop with those annoying  riddles. Gets a little irritating, actually.”

Virtually everyone gasped. Talking ill of the Myst Tree was not done.

“And what riddle might that be?” Since Egg had been sent by the Queen, any information gathered should have been shared with her immediately. Again . . . that was something Molly would know.

To the casual observer, you might think Rose was acting somewhat strange – less like Dazzle and more like Queen Rose’Alynnia. Well, they would be right . . . she was. It had nothing to do with Egg and everything to do with Ben’Edikk. She had some important state business to announce and  it required that her people see their Queen at her most royal.

“Let’s see. Something like, ‘Enjoy your vacation but what is may not be. And she who laughs last, lasts best’.”

“You didn’t tell me that,” said Sylvia.

“We were busy talking about the other thing,” and she emphasized the word other while using her eyebrows to point.

“Oh, yeah.”

Though Dazzle said nothing about the girl’s violation of protocol, the Prince felt compelled to reprimand her. “Egg . . . Eloise . . . I am surprised that you did not share that with me at the time.”

Egg shrugged. “You weren’t in a talkative mood, remember?”

That statement only served to remind Ben’Edikk of his failure. The Prince just glared at the girl.

She returned the glare. Flying Girl was not easily intimidated . . . not even by a blue-skinned cutie that she thought she loved. But momentum was definitely dragging her from a bad situation to a worse one . . . and she felt the goose bumps on her arm.

“Sister, are you planning a vacation?” asked the Queen.

“Syl and I were hoping to spend the summer here on Aerianna until our rings stopped working. We haven’t talked about it but I guess we would still like to come back for a week or two before school starts.”

“You are always welcome. An extended visit would allow you to see your other sisters who are scheduled to return very soon.”

“That’d be awesome.”

“Be that as it may, it still leaves the Tree’s words as a riddle without resolution. Perhaps you should dream on it?”

Dazzle always said that. Whenever no one had an answer, it was ‘Egg, dream on it.’. Another of the girl’s great irritations in life . . . why did she have to be the one to find the answers. However, one thing she had learned long ago . . . don’t argue. “Sure, Dazzle. I’ll try.”

“Thank you, my sister.”

Just then, the Sentinel whacked the ground again and everyone looked up as the doors opened wide. “Your Majesty, Queen F’Aerianne.” And in walked the Rainbow Dragon.

“Look at those wings,” whispered Ashley. “Aren’t they beautiful?”

“My goodness,” responded Grammy. “This is so exciting. The Queen was at Dazzle’s coronation but I was never introduced to her.”

The dragon strode majestically up to Rose and bowed.

“Greetings, F’Aerianne.”

“And to you, Rose’Alynnia. Am I late?”

She was but that would have been rude to point out. “Not at all.” Rose turned to the gathering, “Queen F’Aerianne has an announcement.” She nodded for the dragon to speak.

“Lords, Ladies, Egg of Earth and honored guests . . .,” and she went on to describe the new university that she was establishing on Talon’s Perch. When she finished, she added, “Prince Soar’elle and his daughter, Aeri’elle, will be Head Master and Head Mistress. Our Queen (and she nodded to Rose) has graciously allowed me to bestow these honors on two of my most loyal subjects. I thank her.”

The gathered crowd clapped appreciatively.

Egg, on the other hand, made another mistake. One never challenges a Queen . . . even a lesser Queen like F’Aerianne. “Hey, wait a minute. Are you saying Aeri’elle has to resign from the sisterhood to do this thing?” She wasn’t sure she could handle losing another of the original sisters.

Like Ben’Edikk, F’Aerianne glared at the earthling . . . but chose not to demean herself by answering.

“Well?” demanded the girl . . . another grievous mistake.

Rose signaled to Molly using only her eyes and she stepped forward into the embarrassed silence. This, too, had been part of her training. “A thousand apologies, your Majesties. I beg you to forgive my Earth sister and dear friend. She is unfamiliar with the customs of court and meant no offense. The Hameggattic Sisters, as you are well aware, endured great hardships on behalf of the people of Aerianna.  Their experience bound them in ways the rest of us can only surmise. Your wonderful and joyous announcement was a surprise for which Egg was unprepared.” Though she addressed both Queens, it was really meant for the grumpy and pompous Dragon.

Rose took over. “Of course Egg meant no offense. And none was taken, was it F’Aerianne?”

If the Dragon could have, she would have picked the girl up and swallowed her whole. But that would have been unseemly. “No offense given or taken. And now, my Queen, I ask permission to take my leave.”

“Of course. Thank you for coming and sharing your wonderful news.”

Everyone bowed until F’Aerianne had left (well, not Egg. But at least she didn’t say anything else). When the doors finally closed, Egg looked over at Aeri’elle with an expression of hurt and betrayal. “How could you do this to me?”

“Egg, I’m so sorry. I was going to tell you myself . . . in private. I didn’t know the Queen would be here or that she’d make the announcement. Please, I would never hurt you.”

This whole thing was turning into a nightmare.

Grammy made her way up to her granddaughter and whispered, “Dear one, everyone in this room idolizes you. Don’t disappoint them with your disappointment.” Then she kissed the girl on her forehead and stepped back.

Egg took a few deep breaths and regained control of her emotions. “Aeri’elle, you’re a Hameggattic Sister, now and forever. So you better make me proud in your new job.” She walked over and gave the dragon a hug.

“Nice save,” said Sylvia quietly.

“Didn’t feel like one.”

Molly came over to apologize. “Egg, I’m sorry for having to intrude between you and the Queen. I just thought you might need a little help.”

“You were amazing. It’s like you’ve been on Aerianna your whole life.”

“I have been. I hardly remember anything before we came here.”

“So, I guess I have an opening in the Hameggattic Sisterhood. Like to join?” She was half kidding or maybe half serious.

“That would be such an honor . . . but I can’t.”

“Why?”

“Um . . . I think you’ll find out soon  .” She smiled . . . and blushed.

The Queen looked at the Sentinels who both slammed their lances against the floor. This was the signal for all to be quiet. “Friends, today is a special occasion for many reasons. Queen F’Aerianne’s announcement was but the first I would share with you. We are also honoring our sisters from Earth. As you may be aware, I had the privilege of spending some time there (everyone knew that the Queen had spent a thousand years inside the flying suit and laughed politely). It is a world of beauty and amazing accomplishments and one day it is my fervent hope that we can establish proper relations with them. But that time is not yet upon us.”

“Happily, there are two that were born on that far away planet and have chosen to live amongst us. They have learned our ways well and have proved themselves to be worthy ambassadors of their home world.”

“It is my desire to bestow on them a peerage (a title of nobility) in honor of their new position at court. Jenny, Molly please come forward and kneel.” The two did as they were told.

“Husband . . . and his Lordship pulled Dazzle, the most famous sword on Aerianna, out of its scabbard and raised it for all to see.

He handed it, hilt first, to his wife.

“By the power vested in me as Rose’Alynnia, Queen of Aerianna, first of that name from the House of M’earth, I dub thee, Lady Jenny, Countess of Earth-Shire,” and she touched each of the woman’s shoulders lightly with the flat of the sword. “And I dub thee Lady Molly, Marquesa of Aerianna.” And the Queen again laid the sword upon the girl’s shoulders. “Rise, and be greeted by your Peers and friends”.

Mother and daughter rose, curtsied to the Queen then turned and curtsied to the audience. The room exploded into cheering ad applause. Even Egg, momentarily forgetting the competition she might be in with Molly, applauded.

When everyone quieted down, Lord Z’kkk and his son each hugged the new nobles. They exchanged some private words, which caused both ladies to laugh. And Egg’s goose bumps returned.

Again, at a glance from the Queen, the Sentinels banged their lances. “I wish to make another announcement . . . one that fills me with great joy. I have the pleasure to announce the engagement of my son, Prince Ben’Edikk, and Lady Molly.” She nodded to her son who stepped forward and took his bride to be by the hand. They walked to the middle of the room . . .

. . . and, as the music began to play, they danced to the thunderous applause of the guests.

Egg was dumbfounded. Then she thought of the kiss he had given her and she began to become upset. Then she became really, really angry . . . at herself. What was she thinking? How could it have been love? She hardly knew him . . . he was just a pretty face with a ridiculously wonderful smile. She was  . . . was . . . a stupid kid. Sylvia was right, as usual. You don’t fall in love after one walk in the park.

But she was also upset with Ben’Edikk. Her kiss had been heartfelt; his kiss was a mean trick. He knew he was about to be engaged and he should never have led her on. Oh, and he should never have cheated on Molly. That was really wrong. (Strange how she went from wanting to compete with the girl to wanting to protect her).

She had to tell Molly what a jerk she was getting. She began to storm on to the dance floor but a hand reached out and stopped her.

“Syl, don’t,” she said through gritted teeth.

“Actually, it is not she.”

Egg turned around . . . and came face to face with Lord Z’kkk.

“May I have this dance?”

“What?”

“It is customary for the groom’s father to share the first dance with the groom’s mother. But . . . Dazzle . . . asked if I would dance with you instead.” She didn’t understand what a breach of protocol this was . . . and what an incredible honor that Rose and her husband were bestowing on her.

She was experiencing such a mix of emotions she could hardly think straight. “I’m not a very good dancer. Besides, I don’t know this one.”

“It is a very simple one, two, three . . . one, two, three step. Just follow my lead.” He held out his hand and they walked out to the floor. The buzz that went through the crowd at the sight of his Lordship dancing with Egg was almost electric.

Egg finally regained her wits. “Why are you doing this?”

“My world can never repay you, Egg of Earth, for all that you have done. Those are not mere words . . . but a heartfelt sentiment.”

“I know.”

“I shall share a secret with you. When my son told us of his desire to marry Molly, Rose and I almost refused him. We had always hoped he would fall in love with you.”

“Say what?”

Ignoring her question, he continued, “Parents may encourage their children but they cannot dictate who they will love. So, all we could do was try and prepare Molly for her new role. I believe she proved herself tonight to be a quick study and an able student, do you not agree?”

“She’s terrific. I really am happy for her.” Then she got her old nerve back and said, “But your son . . .”

“Kissed you, I know. He told me.”

“Really. Why did he do it if he loves Molly?”

“Because it was his first, and only, chance to kiss Egg of Earth, Heroine of Aerianna and the young lady who saved his parents and his world. To kiss a legend was simply too enticing for him to pass up.” She stared at the blue-skinned man with her mouth open. “However, he has promised me never to fall to that particular temptation again . . . for your sake and for Lady Molly’s.”

She went quiet for a minute to digest all that she heard. “Your Lordship . . .”

“Yes . . . Egg?” (that was the first time he ever used her nickname).

“Thank you.”

Chapter 8 – Return of 7

“You are quite welcome. Eloise, know that my son is an extraordinary young man. However, he tries too hard to please his mother and me. Given time, he will become less . . . serious in his demeanor. Hopefully his fiancée can instill some of that Earth-like innocence we Aeriannians have come to love in you and Sylvia.”

“He better be good to her. You don’t want to mess with a mad Hameggattic Sister,” she teased (kind of).

“A more formidable opponent does not exist in the known universe. If I may, I would ask yet another favor of you.”

“Sure.”

“Be his friend.”

“On one condition.”

His Lordship raised an eyebrow. One didn’t usually bargain with the husband of the Queen. However, this was Egg. “Of course. You have but to ask.”

“Dance with Ashley. She thinks you’re dreamy.”

“After I dance with the Queen and my daughter-to-be, I would be most pleased to dance with her . . . and your Grandmother.”

And so over the course of the next half hour, Lord Z’kkk did as he promised and danced with grandmother and granddaughter. Ben’Edikk asked Sylvia to dance.

While this was going on, Rose summoned Egg to her side. “I am sorry about Aeri’elle. I had thought she found an opportunity to share her news with you.”

“It’s okay.”

“Egg, dear sister, my husband and I have come to love Molly and are overwhelmed with joy that she will become a member of this family. Yet, there is the merest shadow of regret that it is not you that will be my son’s wife. I trust you will not share that secret with anyone.”

“Of course I won’t. I would never hurt Molly . . . she and Jenny have been through so much.”

The Queen put her arms around Egg and hugged her close. “I have said it before and I will say it yet again. You are unique in all the universe. I do love you so, my sister.”

The girl returned the hug. “If you’re trying to make me cry, you’re succeeding.”

“Sadly, I had meant for this to be a joyous occasion for you. To see Aeri’elle honored by her Queen and Molly elevated to Marquesa and engaged to my son. How poorly I judged your reaction on both counts. Please forgive me.”

“Dazzle, it was my fault for acting like a kid. I’m the one that should apologize.”

“Then my apology cancels yours and neither need be expressed. Now, I will ask a favor.”

“Let me guess . . . dance with Ben’Edikk.”

“Your Feminion has taught you well.”

“Yeah, she has.”

*****

After the reception, Egg and her group said their goodbyes to the Queen and Lord Z’kkk. Aeri’elle, Molly . . . oops, that’s Lady Molly and Lady Jenny, walked them back out to the balcony where they would depart for home.

“Big bird, when do you start your new job?”

“Today.”

“Today? Really?”

“Egg, we have so much to do. Buildings to outfit, curriculum to write, professors to hire . . . I’m tired just thinking about it.”

“Remember, you’re going to make me proud or else.”

“I will. I promise.”

“Have you decided on a name for the university?” asked Ashley.

“Yes. Trans-Galactic University. We’re hoping to invite scholars and students from the worlds we discover using the space portal.”

“That is awesome. Maybe in a few years I’ll send you my application,” said Sylvia.

“As long as I’m Head Mistress, there will always be a place for you, Syl.”

Egg now turned to the other two former earthlings. “Lady Jenny, Lady Molly . . . can you believe it. Talk about a fairy tale. And, you get to marry a handsome Prince. Can’t wait for the movie to come out.”

“And it’s all because . . .,” began Jenny.

“STOP,” demanded Egg. “Please, you don’t need to keep saying it. We did what we did because we could. End of story.”

“It will never be the end of the story Egg. Not as long as I draw a breath,” and Lady Jenny gave her, then Sylvia, a warm hug.

“Egg, can I talk to you a minute . . . in private.”

“Sure,” and she and Molly moved off as the others pretended disinterest but all the while trying their hardest to hear what was being said.

“I know you kissed him.”

Egg blushed and her mouth dropped open . . . but she couldn’t think of anything to say.

“And I know he kissed you. He told me. He said it would be the only time he could kiss the Heroine of Aerianna and he couldn’t resist. And, I’m guessing you think he’s as handsome as I do. So I forgave him. But I won’t forgive you.”

“Molly . . .”

The Marquesa raised her hand. “I won’t forgive you because there’s nothing to forgive. If kissing him gave you a moment of happiness, then  my debt to you is a little less. Not much, mind you, but  a little.”

“Molly, I didn’t know you guys were engaged. I would never have done it if I knew.”

“I know. Still, you’ll have to do one thing to make it up to me. You’ll have to be my Maid-of-Honor. In fact, so will Sylvia. When I marry Ben’Edikk, I’ll become a Princess so I guess I can have pretty much whatever I want. And that’s what I want. Okay?”

“Okay.”

*****

They were back in Grammy’s living room, sitting on the couch or one of her big, comfy recliners.

“That was wonderful,” beamed the older Eloise. “Q’umulus is breathtaking . . . and so is his Lordship.”

“Grammy.”

“What? Am I too old to enjoy the attentions of a handsome nobleman?”

“He’s a married man,” teased her granddaughter.

“My loss.”

“I love the view from the city and the Queen’s Arboretum. But mostly, it was depressing.”

“Why in the world would it be depressing, Ashley?”

“Because I have to go off to college and learn what? Economics. It seems so boring now. I’d rather attend Aeri’elle’s new university. Now that would be an education.”

Egg smiled. “You might not like Talon’s Perch.”

“Why not?”

“It’s kind of scary . . .” and she went on to describe the dragon city-castle.

“Well, it still would be more interesting than anything on earth.”

“You seemed to enjoy your dance with Grammy’s dreamboat,” kidded Sylvia.

“He gives me goose bumps – the good kind.”

“So how was your dance with Benny?” Egg asked her girlfriend.

“Ben’Edikk was a perfect gentleman. I think Molly is a lucky girl,” and she looked at her friend daring her to say something against the newly-engaged couple. To her surprise, the reaction was totally the opposite.

“Yeah, he’s okay. He’ll make her happy.” Syl’s eyebrows arched up in amazement.

“Did you want to tell us what his Lordship said to you? It seemed like quite a conversation.” Everyone now looked at Egg in anticipation of some juicy gossip.

“Sorry. It was between him and me. And before you ask, so was my conversation with Dazzle.”

The other three ladies exchanged looks. Grammy, however, put an end to the questions when she said, “We will certainly honor your privacy, dear one.”

“Thanks, Grammy.”

“Even though we’re dying to know”.

“Grammy!”

“I tease,” but her eyes said something different.

“By the way, what was in that Galleria of the Sisterhood?”

“Oh, yes. Among other things, there was a life size painting of Mobius. I can’t believe I allowed you and Sylvia to fight that man. He was hideous to look at.”

“I’ll have nightmares for a year,” added Ashley. “But I’ve got to say I am way impressed. You seven have more courage than I can even imagine. Kudos.”

“Shucks, weren’t nothing,” teased Egg with false modesty. “So what else was there?”

“Painting of the original sisters as well as the Seven Lands. There were placards explaining all that you guys encountered. If made me very proud . . . of both of you.”

“Hey, don’t look at me,” said Sylvia with a smile. “I’m just her brain. She did the scary stuff.”

“You know what?” Egg huffed as she stood up, “I’m kind of bored with talking about the great exploits of the Sisterhood. We did what we had to do, nothing more, so everyone needs to get over it and move on.”

“Not until you tell me about the other rescue,” responded Ashley. “What was the name of that planet?”

“Zynn-Zaz’zia,” answered Sylvia.

“Not going to happen today. So let’s just drop it, please.”

Ashley said “okay” but then looked at Sylvia, put her hand to her mouth and ear like a telephone and mouthed the words ‘call me’. The other girl nodded.

“So, Grammy . . . if Syl and I want to go back for a couple of weeks, next weekend would be perfect. That’s when Mom and Dad will be driving Ashley to California. It’ll take them three or four days to drive in each direction and they want to spend at least a week helping Sis and sightseeing. Can you cover for us?”

“Let me think. Well, how about another trip to that cabin in the mountains. No cell phone service up there.” It’s where they said they were going when they went on the Quest.

“Are you sure? We don’t want to put you out if you have other things to do?”

“Sweetheart, it’s absolutely no trouble. I’m very glad to do it.”

“Thank you Grammy,” and she gave her a hug.

“By the way,” asked Sylvia, “if we ever need to use Ashley as our cover, how do we say we’re getting to California?”

“Fly, of course.”

“Egg, you can’t tell them you’re flying us there.”

“Not me . . . not Flying Girl. We’re old enough to have Grammy drive us to the airport and put us on a plane. Kids younger than us do it all the time.”

“Or we could take a train,” offered the other girl excitedly.

“SYL.”

“Oh yeah, right. We wouldn’t actually being getting on the plane. My bad.”

*****

Q’umulus

They materialized in the Throne Room . . . but this time no one of importance was there to greet them. The Sentinels, however, went through their routine as usual but for the most part, no one seemed to care.

The girls looked around wondering where they should go. Then they jumped when the Sentinels banged their lancers and opened the door. What walked in made the girls gasp.

It was a miniature Bl’azzz . . . but with the head of Soo.

“OH MY GOSH. Do you think they got into an accident and . . . and they sewed them back together wrong?”

Syl began to giggle. “Jynxie . . . Jynxie,” she called to the serpent headed dragon.

The animal looked up, eyed the person behind the voice then decided it was okay to investigate. It came prancing up to Sylvia and began to lick her with its very long, disgustingly wet, tongue.

“Yuk”.

“So this is a Shamie,” said Egg as she realized what the animal was.

“I’m hoping. Otherwise I’m getting drenched in saliva for no good reason.”

“Jynxie. Jynxie,” came a voice. But it wasn’t spoken out loud. “There you are. Stop bothering those . . . Egg. Sylvia.” It was Spirit followed by the other three space-faring explorers.

“Hi, guys.”

“Hi,” added Sylvia. “Love your dragon fish. So cute,” referring to Jynxie.

“Hey, I ain’t no fish,” complained Soo pretending to be hurt.

“Serpent, fish . . . what’s the difference?” teased Egg.

“There’s one big difference . . . serpents are cute.”

“Not as much as you might think.”

“Enough, you two,” cried BreeZee. “Earthlings, get over here and give me a hug. I’ve missed you both.”

“What? A year and a half on that spaceship with me and you’re already tired of my company?” asked Bl’azzz. “I hardly burped and burned the whole time.”

“You scorched my hair, you giant flamethrower.”

“Spirit, how did you put up with this gang of goofs for so long?” asked Sylvia.

“Mostly I locked myself in my cabin.”

“She did not. Mostly she locked me in my cabin,” complained Soo.

“We actually took a vote. Four against one.”

“Four? Oh, Jynxie got a vote?”

“It was her idea to begin with,” said Bl’azzz. “Gotta love that.”

They all took a deep breath and used the time to exchange hugs.

“When did you guys get back?” asked Sylvia.

“Just now. How about you?”

“Literally seconds before you walked in. How’s that for good timing?”

“Actually, I peeked into your future and there was a great possibility you would be visiting right about now. So we planned our return accordingly.”

“How about teaching me to be a Thought Weaver,” asked Egg. “It seems like a really useful talent.”

“No problem. I would, however, have to remove your brain, rewire it, add a few bits and pieces that you’re missing, cut out some odds and ends that you won’t need, then sew you back up again. I’ll go wash my hands.”

“Um, on second thought, I’ll pass for now.”

“If you change your mind, I’m always up for a good challenge,” teased the other girl.

“Hey, Egg. Where’s big bird?” asked Soo.

“We need to talk. Let’s go find some place private.”

“She’s okay, though. Right?”

“Absolutely. “

They found a lounge area outside. It had been designed to accommodate all three species with chairs, a shallow pond and some branch-like perches. They made themselves comfortable. Even Jynxie returned to her normal shape.

“So what gives?” asked the serpent.

“That grumpy Rainbow Dragon crashed my party a few weeks ago and announced that Aeri’elle and her father have been made Head Mistress and Master of a brand new university. It’s a full time job . . . “ and she left the rest of the thought unspoken.

“Are you suggesting that she is leaving the Sisterhood?” asked BreeZee.

“Don’t be silly,” interrupted Bl’azzz. Then she saw the look on Egg’s face. “She is?”

“Yeah.”

“No.”

“Come on you guys, it’s an amazing honor,” said Sylvia, “and a monumental challenge. She’s going to need our support.”

“I’m happy for her . . . but it makes me incredibly sad that there will only be four of us left.” Soo was, of course, referring to the original seven sisters.

BreeZee stole a glance at Spirit who was looking down at her hands. The serpent hadn’t meant to do it, but she had hurt the feelings of both newcomers. Egg happened to look over and saw their reactions.

“Hey Bree . . .”

“Yes, Egg?”

“Do you miss your parents?”

That was a question out of the blue. “Of course.”

“How about you, Spirit?”

“Yes. Very much.”

“Just because you miss them . . . that doesn’t mean you don’t want to be here, with us. Does it?”

“There’s no place else in the universe I would want to be. There’s no one else I would rather be with.”

“I feel exactly the same way.”

“Well, so do Soo and Bl’azzz and Syl and me. We miss K’ssss, Sassi and we’ll miss Aeri’elle. But when it comes to it, there’s no place else we’d want to be . . . and no one else we rather be with than with you guys.”

Both girls offered smiles to acknowledge what Egg was saying.

“This is the Hameggattic Sisterhood . . . the six of us right here. We can’t worry about what we can’t change. Got it?”

They both nodded.

“So, there are only two things we need to do right now. Make that three. We need to give Aeri’elle a memorable going away party, Syl and I need you to tell us what wonders of the universe you guys have seen . . . and we need to find a seventh sister. Any questions?”

“Can Jynxie be number seven. She’s really nice.”

“No Bl’azzz, but she can be our official pet. Would you like that Jynxie?”

The Shamie morphed back into the dragon-fish and gave Flying Girl a big, very wet lick.”

“That’s just gross.”

Chapter 9 – Shameless Mimic

“I almost forgot. Here, these are for you,” and Spirit handed a little patch to Egg and Sylvia.

“Cute. What is it?”

“It’s the official insignia of my spacecraft.”

“I don’t get it?”

“EGG,” cried Sylvia. “How could you not get it?”

The girl looked at it again. “Ohhhhh. I got it now.”

“Liar.”

“No, really. The red thing is an egg and it has wings because it can fly . . . kind of like me. And the number seven is for the seven Hameggattic Sisters. Duh.”

“Well, I think it’s very clever” Sylvia told Spirit.

“Thank you. It is also the name of the craft.”

Egg scrunched her face. “You call it the seven flying eggs?”

“Eloise Graystone, would you please stop embarrassing yourself.”

“I would if I could. I’m just not as smart as you, smarty pants.”

Soo felt forced to explain.  “Egg-o, the name of the spacecraft is Seven.”

“I knew that,” which caused the five other girls to laugh. Jynxie on the other hand rolled on her back with her four legs sticking straight up – as if she had just died from Egg’s humiliating display of dim-wittedness.

“So you guys,” asked a very curious Sylvia, “where did you go? A year and a half on a space ship usually won’t take you very far. Back on earth, it might get you to the next planet over.” For some reason that made the other four girls laugh. “Why is that funny?”

“My craft is a bit unusual. It doesn’t travel through space like you might think. It’s actually more of a traveling space portal.”

“And that means what exactly?” asked Egg.

“To keep it simple, it punches a hole in the fabric of space then re-enters it at whatever destination you set.”

“Oh my gosh . . . you call that the simple answer?”

“Egg, I’ll explain it to you later,” said her Feminion.

“Don’t bother. If it works, it works.”

“You’re missing the point. The craft can go anywhere – any distance – instantaneously. Am I right, Spirit?”

“Not quite. It does take a little time . . . but not for the reason you might think. It has to do with the distortion of . . . “

“STOP. Syl loves that stuff 'cause she actually has a brain. I was born without one. So, please, no more techno babble.”

Sylvia took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “I gotta find a smarter friend.”

“Don’t you dare.”

They each stuck out their tongues at the other. Sylvia turned back to the others and asked, “So, where in the galactic void did you go? What cool things did you see?”

“For the most part, we tried to avoid any planet where there were people – or their version of people,” replied BreeZee. “We had no way of knowing if they would be peaceful or if they would welcome us aliens.”

“Smart thinking.”

“That’s not to say we didn’t find worlds where we couldn’t detect any signs of intelligent life. On some of those, we landed.”

“And?”

“We took a few pictures to show you. On this world, we came face to face with this thing . . .

“Yuk. It looks like a giant spider.”

“Can you guess why I made them leave?” asked Bl’azzz who had been bitten by something similar in the Seven Lands.

Egg smiled. “No, nothing comes to mind.”

“Here’s a picture of a  . . . whatchamacallit.”

“Ah, how cute.”

“Jynxie thought so too. She morphed into one and they scampered off into the woods. That girl needs to learn how to be a lady.”

That reminded Egg of her last visit. “Speaking of ladies, did you know that Meggy’s brother is engaged to that girl we brought here from earth?” And that started a long conversation that would only interest other girls. So, we’ll move on.

The conversation returned to the space voyage and the weirdly beautiful sights to be seen. Regions where there are so many stars that they blended together into a sea of hot red gas.

And places where light looked a lot like glowing strands of angel hair pasta.

“Um, we did do something that we probably shouldn’t have.”

“Just one?” teased Egg.

“This was a big one,” answered Bree.

Leave it to Sylvia to figure it out before she heard the answer. “YOU DIDN’T?”

Egg scowled. “Didn’t what?”

“They went to earth.”

“YOU DIDN’T?”

“Yeah we did. You were never going to invite us, so we figured we’d just have ourselves a look see,” replied Soo.

“It was nice but no big deal,” added Bl’azzz who was obviously unimpressed.

“Where did you land? Did anyone see you?” asked Sylvia.

“We came out of hyper-space . . .,” began Spirit who stopped when she saw the look on Egg’s face. “It’s not important. Anyway, we materialized over one very big body of water. Then we followed the sun west until we found land. And there was an impressively large city. Lots of tall buildings and streets and people.”

“Bet it was New York City,” said Sylvia.

“So did you land?”

“Uh, no. A bunch of small crafts came chasing after us. We thought it best to leave.”

“Did they get any pictures of you?”

“Have no idea.”

“When was this?”

“Actually, we just came from there. It was our last stop . . . maybe an hour or two ago. Why, Syl?”

“I’ll be right back.”

“Where are you going?” asked Egg.

“To get a newspaper” and she touched her ring and disappeared.

“Do those rings of yours work anywhere?”

“No, Bree. Just here and on Earth. Why?”

“Just curious.”

And just that quickly, Sylvia reappeared . . . with a newspaper and a big smile. “They took your picture. Look” and she held up the paper.

“That’s a cool space ship,” exclaimed Egg.

“You can see the emblem on the side. How neat is that?”

“Are we in trouble? Did we do bad?”

Egg shook her head. “No. They print pictures of flying saucers all the time. Hardly anyone ever believes it.”

“But it’s best if you don’t do it again. It’ll drive them crazy,” warned Sylvia

Over the next hour, the four spacefarers finished their travelogue.

“Egg, did you have something special planned for Aeri’elle?” asked Bl’azzz.

“I’m open to suggestions. Did you guys want to take her someplace you visited?”

“Not exactly. We did bump into another spaceship. It was pretty weird looking . . .”

“. . . but the crew was really friendly. They told us we should go to Laff’Alott.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

“No. Why?”

“Laff’Alott. What kind of a name is that?”

“Actually, in this case, it’s very appropriate,” explained Spirit. “It is supposed to be an amusement world.”

“The whole world? That’s pretty amazing.”

“What did these people tell you about it?” asked Sylvia who was intrigued with the idea.

“Not too much. Apparently, there are a couple of dozen cities and each one has its own particular personality. Don’t ask. They didn’t explain what that meant. Anyway, it’s usually very expensive and very crowded. But, if we could go now it wouldn’t be either. Luckily for us, they’re going through a major upgrade to all their technology. So every city but one is shutdown. We’ll practically have the whole place to ourselves.”

“What’s the theme of this one city?”

“The city is named Fair’Giggle and the theme is Fantasy Fandango.”

“Wow and wow,” was Egg’s reaction.

“I’m with her,” added Sylvia.

“I think it sounds exciting. The four of us would love to go but it would be loads more fun if we had all seven sisters,” said BreeZee.

Jynxie made a sound like  . . . like nothing I could describe. Let’s just call it a growling burp.

“No offense, Jynxie,” apologized the Wind’dancer. “I meant the eight of us.”

This time she growled without the burp . . . her way of saying thank you, I’m guessing.

“You can’t really understand her,” asked Egg.

“Oh, sure. It only took a few weeks.”

“You’re kidding me, right? It’s just a pet.”

Jynxie looked at Egg and gave her a burping growl then it began to morph.

“OH MY GOSH.”

The other five began to howl. Even the Shamie joined in . . . which was really weird since it now looked like Egg the Wind’dancer.

“Make it stop. It’s freaking me out.”

“First, don’t call Jynxie an ‘it’. You’ll hurt her feelings. Second, just ask her nicely.”

Egg figured she was just being teased but on the off chance she wasn’t, she said, “Jynxie, I’m sorry for calling you an ‘it’. Please stop imitating me.”

“The word is mimic, not imitate” corrected Spirit. “Remember she’s a Shamie – it stands for Shameless Mimic.”

Egg rolled her eyes. “Please don’t mimic me.”

The Shamie growled then returned to her original shape.

“Thank you.”

“Grrrrrrr”.

“She’s like having another J’azzz-min,” referring to the obnoxious cat that guided them through the Seven Lands.

“You better not explain that to her,” warned Soo. “You’ll just make her mad.”

“Good grief.”

“Hey, that’s my line.”

“So, what do you think?” asked BreeZee.

“I think it sounds exciting,” answered Sylvia. “Let’s go to Laff’Alott.”

“Then I guess it’s five to one”. Jynxie’s growl burp made her correct her statement. “I meant it’s six to one.” She looked at the strange animal  and said “Happy?”

“Grrrrrrr”.

*****

They decided to surprise Aeri’elle at Talon’s Perch. It was the first time for the two new sisters and they were deeply impressed . . . and terrified. The city was such a dark, gloomy sinister place. And the dragons flying in and out looked more like angry bees protecting their hive than friendly citizens traveling to and fro.

Bl’azzz was transporting Spirit and Soo while Egg took Sylvia. BreeZee sailed on her own wings, as did Jynxie who now looked like Spirit but with the body of a Wind’dancer.

“That’s one strange pet,” Egg said to her friend.

“I think it . . . I mean she . . . is incredibly fascinating. I wonder if my mom would let me have one?” she teased.

“Take her home with you and see what happens.”

Sylvia turned more serious. “Egg, what are we going to do about finding a seventh sister. I’m not superstitious  but I would feel a whole lot better knowing we had the right number.

“Ditto and likewise. I’m guessing it’ll work out. It always does.”

“Any goose bumps about going to Laff’Alott?”

“Nope. Why? Do you think it’s a bad idea to go?”

“No. I think it sounds like a great way to spend our vacation. But if it gave you goose bumps then I might have a different opinion.”

“Glad you’re not superstitious.”

“Just being cautious.”

“Yeah, right.”

*****

They found the complex of buildings that were being renovated for the new university. A helpful dragon directed them to the administrative offices where they were most likely to find their sister.

“I’m guessing it’s that one,” said Soo who pointed to a door with a placard that said “Aeri’elle, Head Mistress.”

“Good guess, you slithering snake,” quipped Bl’azzz.

“If you’re going to do the ‘s’ words, it takes three,” teased her friend.

“I knew that. I just couldn’t think of another one.”

“How about sexy?”

“How about smelly?” countered the dragon.

“Would you two knock it off. This is a place of higher learning not meaningless jibber-jabber.” It wasn’t clear if Sylvia was serious or just kidding.

Egg knocked on the door.

“Come,” came a familiar voice.

“Hey, big bird”.

“Egg. Oh, it’s the whole gang. Hi, guys.”

“Shall we address you as Professor,” asked Spirit, “or Head Mistress?”

“I’d settle for Sister . . . as long as it was accompanied by a hug.”

And it was.

“Come to inspect my new university?”

“No”.

“Egg meant yes.”

“I did?”

“You did.”

“Syl said I meant yes.”

“Well, in that case I have to disappoint you.”

“Why?’

“They’re just about to start the major renovation of one of the buildings. It’s going to be the School of Ethics and Integrity dedicated to my great grandfather.” She was talking about Storm, of course. “It’s going to get very noisy, extremely dusty and a little dangerous. So, I was just packing up to leave.”

Egg smiled. “For how long?”

“Oh, probably ten days, maybe as long as two weeks.”

“Bingo.”

“What’s a bingo?”

“Not important. What is important is that we six . . .”

Growl burp.

“I mean we seven want to take you on one last vacation before you start to get too involved in your new job.”

“Did someone growl?”

“That would be her,” and Egg pointed to one of the two BreeZees.

Aeri’elle hadn’t noticed that the number of Wind’dancers was greater than one. “I’m sorry. We haven’t been introduced. My name is Aeri’elle.”

“Grrrrrrr.”

“I beg your pardon?”

The girls broke into hysterics.

“What is going on?”

“Sorry, Aeri’elle. This is Jynxie.”

“Oh. The Shamie. How utterly fascinating.”

“You want to see fascinating? Jynx, do the dragon fish” said Bl’azzz.

“The what? Oh, my . . .”

“Stop calling her a dragon fish,” demanded Soo. “I’m not a fish.”

“Fish, serpent . . . what’s the difference?” kidded the Head Mistress.

“Good grief, not you too?”

“Jynxie, cease,” commanded Spirit and the Shamie returned to her natural shape. It sauntered up to Aeri’elle and gave her one of those disgustingly wet licks.

“Friendly aren’t you? Spirit, promise to bring her back when the University opens. The students are going to find her irresistible.”

“Absolutely. Jynx will love the attention. Won’t you, you silly thing?”

“Grrrrrrr”.

“So how about it?” asked Egg. “One last time with the Sisterhood?”

“No bad guys, promise?”

“Just us girls.”

“Sounds wonderful. Any place particular in mind.”

“Laff’Alott”.

“Laugh a what?”

“Not important. Just go pack a toothbrush.”

“We’re going now?”

“Unless you have something better to do.”

“My apartment is one building over. You guys can hang out here. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“Great.”

She started to go then stopped. “You said we’re going to Laff’Alott, didn’t you?”

“Yeah. Have you heard of it?”

“No. It’s just that the last time we were together, Spirit said something about a mysterious girl who was going to ‘best you’ . . . then she was going to laugh a lot. That strikes me as a strange coincidence.” She shrugged. “Sorry, it’s my over active imagination. I just started this job but I definitely need a vacation.”

Egg, however, felt the goose bumps rise on her arms.

Chapter 10 – Laff’Alott

Aeri’elle returned very quickly. “Okay, I’m ready. Spirit, I assume we’re going in your spaceship. Is there room for all of us?”

Bl’azzz answered the question. “The thing is huge. We each get our own cabin.”

“I presume it’s in orbit. You didn’t land it on Aerianna, did you?””

“It is in a geo-synchronous orbit above Q’umulus.”

“Hey, I said no techno-babble.”

“She means it rotates at the same rate as the planet,” explained Sylvia. “It’s always in the same relative position.” Egg closed her eyes and pretended to snore.

“How do we get up there?” asked the dragon.

“The same way we got down. The ship obeys my commands. I just tell it to beam us up.”

“Beam us up? What is this . . . Star Trek?”

“Sorry, I don’t know the reference.”

“It’s an earth story about the future. They have starships and they can beam themselves up, too,” explained Sylvia.

“But that’s make believe,” added Egg. “Is this safe?”

“Most of the time,” teased the Thought Weaver. “Let’s give it a try and see what happens.” Her eyes began to glow that strange red.

“What’s she doing?”

“Talking to her ship,” explained BreeZee.

“Are you sure . . .,” but Egg didn’t finish. There was a flash of light and seven sisters and their pet Shamie disappeared. A moment later, they were on board a flying saucer.

“. . . this is safe?” The flash faded away and Flying Girl’s mouth dropped open. “Oh my gosh.”

“Welcome aboard the Seven. This is the bridge . . . the place where I fly this thing.”

“Oh my gosh,” she repeated. This is so cool.” Flying Girl wasn’t easily impressed . . . but this struck a responsive chord in her. Somewhere deep inside her brain, the idea of piloting a spaceship appealed to her. That was more than a little strange since she could easily travel between the stars using her flying suit albeit a lot slower than the Seven could.

“Glad you like it. As you can see, that’s Aerianna out the window. And that bright spot off to the right is Alcyone. So what I’m going to do is sit in the captain’s chair, program the ship to find the star that Laff’Alott circles and tell it to go. It’s really pretty easy . . . but only because the technology is so advanced.”

“Why does it take more than an instant to get to our destination?” asked Sylvia.

“We can’t engage the big space engines until we’re about a million miles away from Alcyone. Likewise, we can’t go directly to Laff’Alott. We have to materialize about a million miles from its sun. The engines won’t work any closer to a star. And don’t ask me why.”

“Darn,” teased Egg, “I so wanted to hear every little detail of the science of this ship. But, I guess I’ll just have to live with my disappointment.”

Missing the sarcasm, Spirit said “Not true. I have all that information in the computer. If you want to access it, I’ll show you how.”

Egg pointed her finger at her head and made the sound of a gun going off.

“What’s she doing?” Spirit asked Sylvia.

“Reveling in her ignorance. Ignore her . . . maybe she’ll go away.”

“Hey, I heard that.”

“You were supposed to.”

Spirit went to the big chair, sat down, fiddled with some controls then stood up. “Done. It will take about a day for us to make the trip. So I suggest that we go to our rooms, freshen up then meet in the galley . . . the kitchen . . . for some food and girl talk. Agreed?”

There was a chorus of yeses and one “Grrrrrrr.”

“Good. Egg, Sylvia and Aeri’elle  . . . I’ll show you to your cabins.”

“Aye, Aye, Captain.”

Sylvia poked her friend. “You are such a goof.”

*****

“I don’t want to know. It works, that’s good enough for me.”

“Eloise Graystone, you have the intellectual curiosity of a hamster.”

“I thought you said no more ‘ham’ words.’

“Oh, you’re impossible.”

“Spirit,” said Aeri’elle trying her best to ignore the two earthling “I would like to understand how it works.”

They were discussing the food dispenser. If you told it what you wanted, it created it. Just that simple . . . to the user. Obviously, the technology was super sophisticated and that’s what Egg didn’t want to hear about.

“All foods are made from basic elements like carbon, oxygen and nitrogen. The re-sequencer (the food machine) just takes the raw material and rearranges it into whatever food you asked for. That’s it.”

“Oh. Hey, I understood that.”

“Egg-o, you are as whacky as K’ssss used to be.”

“That’s not a compliment, is it?”

“No. Not really.”

“Speaking of K’ssss,” said Aeri’elle. “What’s disconcerting is hearing her talk like a super genius but still looking like . . . well, still looking like K’ssss, if you get my drift.”

Everyone giggled because everyone understood what the dragon was referring to.

“What do you call that stuff Meggy is going to have done to her face?” asked Soo.

“Plastic surgery,” answered Sylvia.

“Right. That’s what she needs . . . plastic surgery to get rid of her gargantuan goofy gaze.”

“Hey, that reminds me. K’ssss gave me a gift. Watch this . . .  and Egg stood up and went through the colors of the rainbow.

The four girls who had not seen it before applauded appreciatively. “Why did she give you that?” asked Bl’azzz. “Not that she needed a reason.”

“Syl . . . you tell them.”

“While you guys were away, our brilliant sea sister altered the speed of Aerianna’s solar system.”

“What?”

“Why?”

“How?”

“She said she was tired of the fact that people on Aerianna aged about six years to every one year elsewhere in the universe. So she figured how to unleash the power in the Crystal Mountain to speed things up . . . and alter the flow of time. Mind boggling, right?”

“Maybe you can find a replacement for me that combines K’ssss’ new super brain power with Egg’s great abilities,” suggested Aeri’elle teasingly.

“If we did that, you know what we get?” asked Egg. She didn’t wait for an answer. “We’d get a new leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”

“Don’t be ridiculous” objected Sylvia. “Besides, if that happened, you guys wouldn’t need me anymore.”

“I’ll bite,” said Soo who liked this particular earth saying. “Why?”

“I’m Egg’s Feminion . . . her brain so to speak. If she’s no longer our leader, she won’t need a Feminion.”

“Would you both stop it,” demand Bl’azzz. “This conversation is stupid and it’s making me uncomfortable. The real question is what did K’ssss’ project have to do with the gift?”

Egg explained. “Our rings wouldn’t work for the year and half her little experiment was in progress. We were so worried that something terrible had happened. Even the portal didn’t work.”

“When it was over, she came to Earth . . .,” began Sylvia before she was interrupted.

“She went to earth?”

“The portal opened in Grammy’s living room and out popped our loveable leviathan. She only stayed for a few minutes to apologize and tell us what was going on. When we went back to Aerianna, she left the gift for Egg.”

With that image in their minds, everyone went quiet so they could give a little attention to their food. BreeZee finally broke the silence. “Soo, I heard a rumor about a certain young scientist. Care to share?”

“No.”

“Spill it, you slimy sea worm,” growled Bl’azzz. “How dare you keep boy secrets from your best friend?”

“I’m dating Ven’trrr . . . it’s no big deal.”

“Have I met him?” asked Spirit.

“He’s K’ssss’ brother.”

“Is it serious?” asked Egg.

“Well, it’s not funny.”

“What?”

“The opposite of serious is funny. Hello, anyone in there?”

“I know one thing. There’s no way I would spend a year and a half trapped in this spaceship with you people. You’d drive me crazy.”

The other girls looked from one to another. It was Syl who finally said what was on their minds. “How could we tell?”

*****

The intercom went off throughout the ship. “Everyone, please come to the bridge.”

Most of the girls were in their cabins, a couple were in the galley . . . but they all did as they were told.

“What’s going on, Spirit?” asked Egg. “Is there a problem?”

“No. But there is Laff’Alott,” and she pointed at the big window.

The collective response was, “Ohhhhh.”

“How long till we get there?”

“I’d say about three more hours. Maybe less.”

“I’m getting excited,” said BreeZee. “I used to spend my whole life afraid of every shadow. Now I’m gallivanting around the stars, visiting strange worlds and enjoying the company of friends. I could never have imagined this future.”

“Speaking of the future . . . Spirit, have you taken a peek to see what’s in store for us?” asked Egg.

“No I haven’t. I really hate to know what will probably happen unless there is something dangerous that might befall us. But, if you want me to, I guess I could have a look.”

“No. Don’t. I was only wondering. It’s not important. It’s just that the Myst Tree had one of his riddles for me.”

“What?” yelled Soo. Poor Jynxie was so startled she ran and hid under a table.

“What’s wrong?” asked BreeZee.

“That Tree is always giving Egg helpful hints about what’s to come or what to do. But he likes to put it in the form of a riddle. Sometimes it takes forever to figure out what it meant.”

“What did he say?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Something like ‘have a great vacation’ but ‘what is’ may not be. And, ‘she who laughs last, lasts best’. It didn’t sound like anything serious.”

“No it doesn’t,” agreed Aeri’elle. “It just sounds like we’re in for an interesting time. I, for one, wouldn’t worry about it.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought too.”

“What were you doing visiting the Myst Tree?” asked Spirit.

“Dazzle wanted me to take Ben’Edikk to see him. That’s her son.”

“Why? If I can ask?”

“It’s kind of private . . . but it wasn’t anything important. Sorry to be mysterious.”

“No need to apologize. If it’s the Queen’s business, it probably isn’t ours . . . or at least not mine.”

The conversation ended abruptly when they heard  a crackling sound as the communications system come alive with a very serious sounding voice . . . “This is Laff’Alott Control to approaching vessel. Please state your intentions.”

“Who was that?”

“The planet’s traffic control system is calling us and asking what we want. It’s routine. However, they can’t hear my thoughts from this far out. So . . . I tell the ship’s computer and it relays my message.”

“This is the Starship 7 with eight souls on board. We would like permission to enter orbit.”

“Starship 7. Most of Laff’Alott is closed to incoming visitors. Only Fair’Giggle is in operation. And, even they are not at one hundred percent. We apologize for the inconvenience.”

“This is Starship 7. We are aware of your renovations. Fair’Giggle will meet our needs. Permission to orbit and disembark.”

“Starship 7. Permission granted. A hostess will join you shortly to escort your party. Enjoy your stay. Laff’Alott Control out.”

“That was interesting,” observed Egg.

“As I said, it’s routine. Someday Aerianna will need to have a Traffic Control like this one.”

“Spirit, what did he mean when he said a hostess would join us shortly?”

“I’m not exactly sure. I presume it means that they will send a small ship to greet us and guide us into a parking orbit.”

She was wrong.

A moment later out of nowhere a shower of sparkles materialized in the control room. They swirled and spun then slowly came together in the form of a . . . person.

“I am Tee’ka. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

Seven girls and a Shamie just stared at the apparition.

“May I have the names of the guests who will be joining me in Fair’Giggle?”

Instead of answering, Egg asked, “What are you?”

“I am Tee’ka. I will be your guide and companion. If you have any needs, you have but to ask. May I have the names of the guests who will be joining me in Fair’Giggle?”

“Are you real?” What Egg meant was ‘are you alive?’

“Yes, I am real. My name is Tee’ka. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

“She’s obviously a computer generated image,” said Aeri’elle.

“Just give her our names,” said Sylvia.

“I’m Egg, and that’s Sylvia, Bl’azzz, Aeri’elle, Soo, Spirit and BreeZee.”

‘Grrrrrrr burp’.

“Oh yeah. And that’s Jynx.”

“Welcome to Laff’Alott. Please gather your belongings and we will depart for Fair’Giggle.”

“What about the ship?”

The apparition flickered in and out then said, “A telepath. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

“No need to speak to me telepathically.”

“Thank you for that information. As to your vessel, it will be placed in orbit for you. Please gather your belongings.”

The girls did as they were asked and returned to the bridge. “I guess we’re ready.”

“Excellent,” and Tee’ka waved the wand she was holding.

The ship disappeared and in a heartbeat, they were standing on a balcony overlooking the city.

“Welcome to Fair’Giggle. If there is anything I can do to make your visit more enjoyable, do not hesitate to ask. Please enjoy your stay on Laff’Alott.”

The girls looked around but it was Egg who said it best. “Oh my gosh”.

Bonus: A Christmas Novella introducing Molly and Jenny

© Copyright, 2014, by Robert Iannone,

All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 1 - Molly

“Please don’t do that.”

The little girl ignored her mother and kept scribbling on the wall with chalk.

She used black, yellow and her most favorite color in the whole world – crimson red. For someone so young, she was quite a good artist. But for several months now, she refused to draw up to her abilities. All she would do is scribble like a two year old.

“MOLLY”.

“What?”

“I said please don’t do that.”

“You said I could decorate the wall,” complained the girl.

“I did. But that’s not decorating, that’s just graffiti. Bad graffiti at that.”

“It’s pretty. See all the red?”

Ignoring the question, Jenny replied, “Draw some pretty flowers. Or maybe a ferocious dragon. Or a princess.”

“I don’t want to.”

“Why not?”

“’Cause.”

“’Cause why?” asked her mother patiently.

“I hate this place,” and the little girl hurled the chalk at the wall apparently to prove she was quite serious. She ran to the cot that they both shared and threw herself on it, burying her face in the thin pillow.

Jenny sighed. She fought back the tears that were threatening to spill from her eyes and hurried over to her daughter. “We won’t be here for too much longer, I promise.” But it was a promise she didn’t know how to keep.

“You said that on Thanksgiving. Now it’s almost Christmas.”

“I know, Sweetheart. But sometimes things don’t happen as fast as we want.” Without thinking, she stroked the girl’s long blond hair.

“Mommy?”

“Yes, dear.”

“There’s no such thing as Santa Claus is there?”

Jenny stared at her daughter trying to decide how best to answer the question. After a moment, she asked, “Why do you say that?”

“Because if there really was one, he would bring me a sister to play with and a nice house for us to live in. And . . . and a new dress for both of us.”

Jenny smiled sadly. “That’s a lot to expect from Santa Claus, don’t you think.”

“No it isn’t. He could do it if he was real. I just know he could.”

Jenny lost the battle . . . one tear did manage to fall from her eye. “Oh, Sweetheart, he can’t always bring us everything we want.”

“Mommy, why are you crying?”

“I’m not crying. I just got a little piece of dust in my eye.” She wiped away the tear and said, “See, all better.” But it wasn’t.

*****

Jenny and Molly had nothing. No home, no money, no friends and worst of all, no family. Technically, however, Jenny was still married. Her husband had a small shop repairing and restoring old cars. But when the economy had gone into a tailspin, the business went bankrupt. He had invested every last dime that the family had in order to try and save it, but to no avail.

And when he was forced to close the doors, he packed a single suitcase, and disappeared one night into the gray foggy mist that hung over their little apartment. He left without saying goodbye to either his wife or his daughter…too ashamed of his failure to face either one of them.

That was four years ago and in all that time, Jenny and Molly never heard from him. And in all likelihood, they never would.

Less than six months after he left, what little savings Jenny had managed to accumulate was completely gone. She and her daughter were thrown out of their apartment and forced to live in a series of homeless shelters.

The shelters brought bittersweet emotions. She was eternally grateful that they existed and provided her and her daughter a warm bed and hot meals. On the other hand, they were depressing places – filled with dozens of other families just like hers; people without hope living in dreary rooms trying to make it through just one more day.

And it took the young mother every ounce of will power to keep going. Not for herself . . . but for Molly. She knew that there had to be a way out of this nightmare – though she couldn’t quite see the path.

But she wasn’t going to give up. Not ever.

So when Mr. Cromwell asked if she would volunteer to work with some high school girls who were doing a project on the homeless and less fortunate, she agreed. Well, not at first. It sounded offensive…being put under a microscope for the benefit of some spoiled teenage kids.

However, the fifty dollars she would be paid was much too good to pass up, especially with Christmas so close.

At least Molly would get her new dress.

Chapter 2 - Serendipity

“How’s that for good news, bad news?”

“Oh my gosh, what do we do now?”

“I guess she’ll assign us to someone else.”

Egg wanted to be upset, but just couldn’t. The homeless family they had been following for the past two and a half months had received the most wonderful and unexpected news. A great aunt and uncle with whom they had lost contact years and years ago had been found. Told of the plight of their distant relatives, the elderly couple had instantly agreed to open their hearts and home to their newly, rediscovered family.

And so Josie Rose and her two young children, Sarah and Drew, had been rescued from the ranks of the destitute and were now happily ensconced in their new home in South Dakota.

At first, Egg and Sylvia had whooped for joy. After spending so much time with the family as part of their ninth grade Social Studies project, they had become very fond of them. To know that they no longer had to live in a homeless shelter, and that their lives would finally get back to normal made both girls incredibly happy . . . and less self-conscious of their own well-to-do lives.

Then they realized that without the Roses to follow, they could not finish the rest of the project unless, of course, they were assigned another family. And that thought was more than a little daunting; it had taken a lot of effort to win the trust and respect of Josie and her kids.

And now they would have to start all over again. Hence, the good news, bad news that Sylvia had mentioned.

However, their feelings proved that this project was having the desired effect on the students. To talk about the plight of the homeless or anyone living in poverty is a wonderful endeavor and socially responsible. But it was just theory; putting a face on these less fortunate souls is an entirely different kettle of fish. To share part of their experience is to truly taste the despair that they feel…and to give thanks that, by the grace of God, it isn’t you.

*****

“Okay, you two need to sign another contract.”

Both Egg and Sylvia disliked the contract. It stated that neither girl could help the family they were following in any way. No money. No gifts. No dinners at their homes. Nothing. The idea was to protect the kids from families that were so desperate that they might try to take advantage of the unsuspecting students. Besides, this was a ‘case study’ meaning that the lives of the families had to play out as if the students were never there. The kids could only observe and ask questions. They couldn’t even give advice. Any violation of the contract would mean they would fail. And this project was worth half of the grade for the year.

Egg signed her name Eloise  G. Graystone  (she had spent the whole summer perfecting the signature) then passed the contract to Sylvia who also signed.

“Great. Here is a short bio on the family,” and Mrs. Santropino handed Sylvia a one-page summary of the people they would be studying.

The girls read it quickly.

“Just the two of them, how sad,” exclaimed Sylvia.

“All of these cases are sad but you must stay objective. You’re social scientists and observers. Remember, try not to get emotionally involved or it will taint your observations and conclusions.” Then she added compassionately, “It is so very hard to stay detached; especially around Christmas time.”

“Thanks Mrs. S . . . we’ll do our best.”

“I know you will, Egg. Good luck.”

Since it was noon-ish, the girls walked to the cafeteria, bought two orders of French Fries and chocolate pudding, an orange juice for Sylvia and lemonade for Egg. They found a table off to the side and sat down.

“Well, should we go see them after school?”

“I guess.”

“You don’t sound very enthusiastic.”

“I’m not. Syl, you and I have so much and these people have nothing. That just seems so unfair.”

“Life is unfair.”

“Oh, please. I hate that phrase.”

“Yeah, me too. Sorry.”

“You know what really gets me?”

It was a rhetorical question but Sylvia wasn’t Egg’s best friend for nothing. “It bothers you that we were able to save two planets (she meant Aerianna and Zynn-Zaz’zia) and millions of people, but we can’t do anything to help any of these families.”

Egg smiled in acknowledgement.

“Well, didn’t someone once tell you that if you can’t change what you can’t change, don’t worry about it?” It was probably Grammy or Dazzle that had said something of the kind to Egg.

“Syl, do you ever wish we could move to Aerianna?”

“All the time. If I didn’t have a family and if you would go with me, I’d leave right this instant,” and she involuntarily fingered the ring she wore. It was given to her by Egg but modified by the scientists on Aerianna. With it, she could teleport herself back to that other world in the blink of an eye. Egg also had one, though now that she had her flying suit back, she didn’t really need it.

“Yeah, me too.”

Chapter 3 - Heart and Soul

“Molly, we’re getting two visitors today.”

“Who?” The little girl was curious since no one ever came to visit.

“Two high school girls. One is named Sylvia and the other is Eloise.”

“Are they friends of yours?”

“No, dear. They’re coming here to . . . ummm . . . to get to know us. They’ll probably be spending a lot of time with you and me; at least for a few weeks.” Jenny knew the project was scheduled to end on Christmas Eve.

The timing couldn’t have been better. Jenny had to go to the Clinic today to receive the results of her tests. She had been having a lot of pain in her abdomen and the medicine she was taking didn’t seem to help. She was hoping the two girls would look after Molly so she could go by herself. The clinic frightened the little girl. In truth, it frightened Jenny as well. She couldn’t afford to be sick . . . for her daughter’s sake.

“When are they coming over?”

“Pretty soon,” and as if by magic, there was a knock. “Well, how’s that for timing,” and she walked over and opened the door.

“Hi, Jenny. My name is Sylvia . . .

. . .  and this is Egg.”

“EGG?” giggled Molly who was standing just behind her mother peeking out at the two strangers.

“That must be her nickname sweetheart.”

“It is. Hi, Molly. My real name is Eloise. But my initials are E for Eloise, G for Grace and another G for Graystone. That spells EGG.”

“That’s funny,” and the little girl did the most unexpected thing. She ran up to Egg and gave her a gigantic hug.

“Wow,” exclaimed her mother. “That’s a first. She’s normally very shy around strangers.”

“Hey, Molly. Can I have one of those too?” asked Sylvia. Then she added, “I’m Egg’s bestest friend in the whole world. Actually, I’m her bestest friend on three worlds.”

Egg gave her friend an eyebrow-scrunched look of surprise. They never talked about the other worlds they visited in front of anyone. But Sylvia ignored her friend and opened her arms to receive Molly’s hug.

“Oh, I’m sorry. Please come in.” Then being self-conscious of the awful condition of the little room, Jenny said, “Forgive the mess.”

Egg followed Jenny in while Molly dragged Sylvia by the hand. The girls looked around the one room apartment and tried not to show their surprise. It wasn’t a pretty sight.

“That’s my picture wall,” and Molly proudly pointed to a little alcove covered with chalk drawings. Unfortunately, all of her finest work had been erased and what was left was the scribbling of a child whose subconscious was crying out for a different life . . . one filled with beauty and friendship and joy and hope.

“Oh isn’t that nice,” fibbed Sylvia who still had Molly’s hand in hers.

“Molly is actually a very fine artist. But for the last few weeks she’s been expressing a . . . ummm . . . different side to her personality.”

Ignoring her mother’s observation, Molly said, “I can make tea. Do you want some?” The eager look on her face was both heartwarming and heart breaking.

“I would love some tea and I know Egg would too.”

“Okay,” and the little girl bounced away to a corner of the room that was the kitchen area. She poured water into the teakettle, set in onto a little hotplate and turned it on. There was no stove.

As she went about gathering an eclectic collection of teacups, the girls sat down at the table, one on either side of Jenny.

“So tell me about your project,” she asked. She was very surprised at how quickly she had taken to these girls. They were somehow different from other girls their age . . . but she wasn’t sure how. There was an air of ‘worldliness’ about them that bespoke of wisdom and experience far beyond their years. The fact that Molly had adopted them on sight might also have had some influence on her own reaction.

The girls explained the project and braced themselves for the expected outburst of indignation from the Jenny. They had been warned that the first reaction would always be one of outrage and insult (even Josie Rose had reacted coldly at first). No one wanted to be the object of a social experiment because they were down on their luck . . . even if they knew in advance what to expect.

But Jenny did not react as expected. “I think it’s great. If our . . . ummm . . .  situation can help educate others, then maybe we, as a society, can find ways to fix the problem.”

Egg and Sylvia exchanged a quick glance. Jenny was obviously a very intelligent person and her reaction to the project was both a surprise and welcomed relief.

“You do understand that we’re not allowed to interfere in any way with your situation?” It was another delicate moment in starting this relationship.

And Jenny surprised them yet again when she answered, “I do and I can understand why. But I guess it will be harder on you than it will be on me and Molly.”

“You can’t even guess how much,” answered Sylvia in a soft voice.

The teakettle began to boil and sing. Egg jumped up and asked, “Molly, can I help you pour the water?”

“I thought you couldn’t interfere?” asked Jenny with a smile.

“We do have a little leeway,” and Egg returned the smile.

“Okay, Egg. I’ll put the tea bags in the cups and you can pour the hot water over them.”

So they worked side by side. When they finished Egg carried the tray over to the table but let the little girl serve each person. “Sorry, but we don’t have any sugar. But we do have a box of tea biscuits?”

“Sounds great.”

“Actually, Molly, Egg and I are on a diet. So maybe next time.” Sylvia didn’t think they had much in the way of food and she didn’t want to take even a biscuit out of the mouth of these two people. She was shocked that in the space of less than ten minutes, she was feeling a great deal of affection for both of them. But maybe just a tad bit more for Molly.

So as they drank the tea, the girls asked Jenny and Molly about their lives. There were the usual ‘break the ice’ type questions. “How do you spend your days?” “Are you friends with any other families in the shelter?” “If you could live anywhere, where would that be?”

But the answer that broke their hearts was to the question, “What is the one thing that you would change if you could?”

“I want my daughter to have a fair chance in life. Why should she be punished because I’m a terrible mother?” She said it with such passion and fervor that it startled the girls. Then Jenny couldn’t help herself and she started to cry which upset her daughter.

“Mommy, Mommy you’re not terrible. Really,” and Molly ran to her mother, buried her face in Jenny’s chest and started to cry in sympathy. It was all that Egg and Sylvia could do not to join in. They knew that Jenny wasn’t to blame for her present situation. Sometimes life just deals you a bad hand.

The girls sat there, each quietly studying the teacup in front of them. It was the only privacy they could afford to give mother and daughter. After a few very long minutes, Jenny was able to compose herself. With Molly still on her lap, she said, “Sorry.”

“Don’t be silly. You have every right . . .,” but Egg didn’t finish. It sounded too lame.

“Can I ask a favor? I know you aren’t supposed to interfere . . . but I, I need to go . . . ummm . . . go out for a bit. Could you two stay with Molly for me? Maybe you could get her to draw something nice instead of that icky stuff she’s been doing lately.”

“Absolutely. Our assignment . . .,” Sylvia caught herself then continued, “Umm . . . it will give us a great opportunity to get to know Molly better.”

“And when you get back, I bet Molly will have finished a great drawing just for you. Won’t you Molly?”

“Okay. What should I draw, Mommy?

“How about a ferocious fire breathing dragon . . . they’re your best?”

Egg barked a laugh then put her hand over her mouth. “Sorry . . . I just had a silly thought.”

So Jenny gathered her things, kissed her daughter goodbye, thanked the girls yet again and left.

“Okay Molly. Let’s see what you can do.”

“Do you like dragons, Egg?”

“Like them, heck I love them.”

“Me, too,” added Sylvia her face lit with a mischievous smile.

“Okay then I’ll draw a dragon. What color is your favorite?”

“I think all the best fire breathing dragons are red.”

“That’s my favorite color!”

“Well, it’s mine too. So, show me how good you really are.”

“Can I erase these other . . . ummm . . . drawings?” asked Sylvia.

“Okay.”

So Syl erased the scribbling and Molly went to get her chalk. “Okay, so first I draw the face . . .,” and over the next thirty minutes the little girl worked on her sketch. After each part, she would step back and appraise her work. If she weren’t sure how good it was, she would ask her two new friends for their opinions. Sometimes they agreed that this or that should be changed. But most of the time they were very impressed with the girl’s ability.

“She reminds me of Sassi,” said Egg.

“Got that right.”

After the drawing was done, they sat back down at the table and played Go Fish and Crazy Eights all the while talking about the girl’s life and her dreams. Before they knew it, another hour had gone by and the door opened.

It was Jenny.

And her face was white as chalk.

And her eyes were as red as the dragon her daughter had just sketched.

“Hi, Mommy.”

“Hi, Sweetheart.”

Egg and Sylvia both saw the expression on Jenny’s face, but said nothing. It was obviously bad news of some kind and they didn’t want to ask in front of the little girl.

“Molly drew you a fantastic picture of a red dragon. Come see.”

Jenny walked over to the picture wall and took in the wonderful sketch Molly had done.

“That’s what I’m talking about. That’s my Molly. It’s probably the best you’ve ever done . . . it’s so lifelike.”

“It’s a picture of Bl’azzz . . . she’s one of Egg and Sylvia best friends.”

“Really?” and Jenny glanced over at the girls and gave them a wink.

*****

Chapter 4 - Bad to Worse

“Did you see the look on her face when she came in? It’s like she saw a ghost.”

“Oh my gosh, it just has to be something altogether awesomely awful.” Without realizing it, she sounded like Soo’nami talking to K’ssss.

“When we go back tomorrow, I’ll take Molly for a walk and you can find out what it is.”

“Sounds like a plan.” A moment later Egg asked, “Molly is terrific, isn’t’ she?”

Sylvia didn’t answer the question. Instead she said, “Egg, I don’t know how I’m going to do it?”

“Do what?”

“Live up to our contract. I just have to find a way to help them.”

“What’s this ‘I’ stuff? You better mean ‘we’.”

*****

“Come on, Molly. Let’s go for a walk and you can show me all the places you like to visit.”

“Okay. Come on, Egg.”

“I think I’ll stay with your Mom. You guys go without me. And have fun.”

As the door closed behind them, Jenny said, “Egg, I can’t tell you how much your visits mean to my daughter. And to me. I know it’s just a school project, but I feel like you two really care.”

“We do care. We’re not supposed to, but the heck with them. Molly’s so terrific. And you’re an incredibly brave person.”

“Hah. Me brave? Not likely.”

“You have to face this every morning when you wake up,” and she pointed to the little room. “Then you have to face your daughter and make it seem like it’s a lot more than it is. I couldn’t do it.”

Jenny’s response wasn’t at all what Egg expected. “Egg . . . I’m so afraid.”

Misunderstanding what Jenny meant, the girl responded, “It’s bound to get better . . . just you wait and see.”

Jenny burst into tears . . . the crying quickly becoming uncontrollable sobbing. Egg’s mouth fell opened in shock but she quickly gathered herself, walked over, and put her arms around the young mother. “What is it, Jenny? When you came home yesterday, you were as white as a ghost.”

The woman couldn’t answer as she continued to cry uncontrollably. It gave Egg goose bumps and somehow she guessed what Jenny would eventually tell her.

It took almost five minutes until she could talk. “Egg . . . I’ve had bad pains in my stomach for a few months. I went to the clinic and they ran some tests.” She stopped talking as she tried to control her emotions. “Egg . . . I’m the only one in the world that Molly has. It’s not fair . . . not for me, but for her. Oh, Egg . . . I’m dying.”

She had guessed right . . . but the impact of the words was still like a sledgehammer to the gut. She squeezed Jenny even tighter and they both broke down into hysterics.

After the better part of forever, they both calmed down. Jenny told Egg that the ache she had been suffering was from a tumor and that it was much too late for the doctors to do anything. She probably had only a few months to live . . . and most of that time would be spent in a hospital under heavy sedation to ease the pain.

For all intent and purpose, Molly was an orphan.

*****

The girls took the bus home each lost in her own thoughts and emotions. When they got off, they each walked their separate ways to their homes. Neither had spoken a word.

What was there to say?

*****

When they saw each other the next morning at school, Egg said, “My parents said they couldn’t adopt Molly.”

“Same with my parents.”

“What are we going to do?”

“We could ask Mrs. S to be assigned to another family.”

“WHAT?”

“Egg, I don’t know if I can face Molly knowing what’s going to happen to her. Or Jenny for that matter.”

“Yeah, I know what you mean. But maybe we can . . . you know . . . like become Molly’s Big Sister so that after . . . um . . . . you know after Jenny . . . um . . . leaves . . . we could still watch over her. At least until she’s adopted.”

“Not a bad idea. That might make Jenny feel a little better. But Egg . . .”

“I know, I know; it’s not much. And what about poor Jenny? She’s only like twenty-five and she’s got to face this stuff by herself. I’d rather face Mobius.”

At the sound of the name of the archenemy of the Hameggattic Sisters, Sylvia’s face lit up. “Egg . . . you’re a genius.”

“Really? When did that happen?”

“Just now.”

“I didn’t feel anything.”

“No, goofy. Tonight I want you to dream.” Egg was famous for getting some great ideas when she dreamt. It was the only way that she and the Sisterhood figured out how to get through the Seven Lands and defeat Mobius.

“How’s that going to help Jenny and Molly?”

“I don’t know. But if there’s a way, you’ll figure it out in your dreams. You always do.”

“Syl . . . this is different.”

“Why?”

“Well . . . It just is.”

“Egg, I’m your trusted advisor and I’m advising you to dream. Tonight.”

“Okeydokey. I’ll try.”

“Trying isn’t good enough. We’re talking about Molly and her mom. Failure is simply not an option.”

*****

Egg went to bed early that night.

And as was her way, she had a dream.

And in the dream, she was visited by Storm. The dragon Prince had been Queen Dazzle’s closest friend until he had passed away at the very old age of a thousand years.

“Egg of Earth, it has been awhile.”

“Oh my gosh . . . hi, Storm. It’s wonderful to see you again. How are you?”

“I am fairly well, thank you. And yourself?”

“Pretty good.”

“I think not. I believe you are troubled.”

“Maybe a little.”

“In all honesty, I, too, am troubled. Perhaps we can help each other.”

“How?”

And a few minutes later Egg, though still asleep, was grinning from ear to ear.

*****

It was Saturday morning and Egg was on the phone the instant she got up. She was calling Sylvia.

“Huh’wo” . . . roughly translated that meant hello spoken by a person who was technically still asleep.

“Syl . . . you were right.”

“Good to know. Goodbye,” and she hung up,

Egg called back. “SYLVIA,” she screamed in to the phone.

“WHAT?” cried the now-awake girl.

“It’s me . . . and you were right.”

“Egg, what time is it?”

“Time to get up, get dressed and get over here. I’ll give you two minutes.”

“You’re an evil witch.”

“And you’re the best Feminion anyone ever had.”

*****

“Mom, Syl and I are going to visit Jenny and Molly.”

“So early? Are you sure?”

“Yup. We probably won’t be home till late so don’t be worried.”

“I guess you’re old enough to stay out of trouble.”

Sylvia snickered and Egg had to jab her in the side with her elbow. “Love you,” and she and her best friend ran out the front door.

About a half hour later, they were at the homeless shelter. As they went in the manager of the place stopped them. “Are you looking for Jenny and Molly?”

“Yes.”

“I’m sorry they aren’t here.”

“When will they be back?”

“Never?”

“What?”

“They moved out last night. I asked where they were going but Jenny said she wasn’t sure.”

“Oh my gosh.”

*****

“Why do you think they left?”

“I guess maybe Jenny wanted to show Molly some nice places before she died. You know, so that she would have some fond memories of her mom.”

“Oh, Syl . . . you’re going to make me cry.”

Sylvia blew her nose. “I beat you to it.”

“Where do you think they went?”

“I have no idea.”

“Come on, Syl . . . think.”

“Me?”

“Yeah, you. Remember I’m the dreamer and you’re the thinker.”

“I forgot. Okay, um . . . well we asked them where they would rather be if not here, and remember what they said?”

“Oh my gosh, they both wanted to see snow-covered mountains. Jenny said she wanted her daughter to have a White Christmas.”

“That’s got to be it. Come on.”

“Come on where?”

“You’re going to become Flying Girl and we’re going to the mountains.”

*****

Egg walked into the ladies room and said, “Ring, tend to my suit.” A white mist formed around her and in an instant, she was wearing her flying suit (it was part of the magic in the ring that she wore). She and Sylvia walked out of the shelter with people gawking at her costume. But they didn’t care who saw them; after an hour they wouldn’t remember anyway (that was part of the magic of the flying suit). So Egg took Sylvia’s hand and leaped skyward. They flew from town to town along the bus route until they came to a quaint little village nestled in a valley guarded by tall mountain peaks. Everything was covered in white . . . a veritable Wonderland of Snow.

“A perfect place to celebrate a White Christmas,” said Syl as she surveyed the scene.

“It’s not much different than the other places.”

“Silly, there’s a big difference.”

“And that would be…?”

“This town is named after the clouds.”

“What?”

“It’s called Cumulus.” (On Aerianna, Q’umulus was its capital city).

“OH MY GOSH”.

*****

Egg changed back into her regular clothes and the two girls started walking the streets.

“Egg . . . over there.”

“What?”

“The diner. Let’s check it out.”

It was like the diners that used to be found in every town back in the forties and fifties. It look like a big trailer and was made of aluminum. As they got closer, they could read the red neon sign above the place — “BESSON’S GOURMET” — except that all the letters weren’t lit. Only five of them still worked  — S,S,O,N and G. Ss’ong was a princess and Queen Dazzle’s sister.

“Syl . . . that’s just too weird.”

“Yeah . . . it is a bit freaky. Anyway, I think we found them.”

They virtually ran the last fifty yards and rushed in. And, sure enough, there at the counter eating some kind of pie (and drinking hot chocolate) was Molly and her mother.

“Hi, guys.”

Mother and daughter turned around at the sound of the familiar voice and the little girl screamed, “EGG! SYLVIA!” so loud that every other patron turned to stare.

“What are you two doing here?” asked the little girl’s mother.

Egg and Sylvia walked up to their friends and exchanged hugs. Molly’s face was beaming with the widest smile while Jenny’s was clouded by the shock and confusion of this unexpected visit.

“We came to find you.”

“You did? Why? How?”

“That’s a long story. Do you have a room where we could have a little privacy?”

“Yes, over at the River’s Edge Inn,” and Egg gave Sylvia a knowing glance. That was the name of the town on Aerianna where they had started the Quest.

“When you finish your food, maybe we could go talk.”

*****

Jenny, Molly and Sylvia were sitting on the bed while Egg paced back and forth telling her story. The girl was trying hard to stay calm but the more she said, the more excited she became. Every once in a while, Sylvia had to ask her friend to slow down.

When she finally finished, she glanced at her Feminion to see if she had ‘done good’. Sylvia smiled back at her and nodded.

“So . . .  what do you think? Egg finally asked Jenny.

The young mother had no idea what to make of the story she just heard. It was preposterous, silly and otherwise crazy. But she considered both these girls as friends, so she was willing to play along.

“Let me get this straight. You’re a super hero called Flying Girl and the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”

“She’s not a super hero,” interrupted Sylvia. “She only does super hero stuff.”

Jenny scrunched her face at the girl. “What?”

“She’s not like super-girl or anything. She just your ordinary Egg who does extraordinary things.”

Jenny giggled and said, “Wow.”

“Jenny, it’s my flying suit and jewelry that gives me weird abilities,” explained Egg. “It’s not like I personally have those gifts.”

“Can you make yourself really small . . . you know, just to show Molly?”

“No. My bracelet and ring . . .  that ring . . . no longer work. In fact, I just got my flying suit back.”

“Uh-huh. What about the necklace – the one that lets you speak and understand any language? How come you’re not wearing it?”

“I wear it when I wear my suit, but I don’t really need it anymore. I have a translation crystal in this ring,” and Egg showed it to her.

Not wanting to hurt their feelings, Jenny continued her questions. “So this sisterhood also has two dragons (this elicited an excited cheer from Molly), two sea serpents and a girl that’s green. Right?”

“Yup.”

“And one dragon has gas because she’s a vegetarian and when she burps it bursts into flames because she’s a F’yre Dragon?”

“That’s Bl’azzz.”

“Oh, yeah. That’s the name of the dragon that Molly drew.”

“You remembered.”

Since she and her daughter had nothing better to do, and this whole thing was actually amusing, Jenny continued with her questions. Besides, Egg and Sylvia had tracked them down for a reason and she was curious as to why.

“And they live on the planet Aeri . . . um?”

“Aerianna.”

“Right. Aerianna. And that’s somewhere in the constellation the Seven Sisters . . . about fifty gazillion miles away.”

“Give or take a mile.”

“And you want us to go there because in a dream a dead dragon told you that Princess Song can’t have children.”

“Actually, it’s Ss’ong. She’s very sweet and she’s a terrific artist. She and Sassi are best friends now.”

“Right. And how exactly do we get there?”

“Oh, don’t worry about that. That’s the easy part.”

“If you say so. Anyway this Princess will adopt Molly when I . . . uh . . .”

“Yes.”

“What does that mean Mommy . . . adopt?”

“It means that if anything ever happens to me, the Princess will take care of you. Would you like that?”

“But nothing is going to happen to you, Mommy. I’m going to take care of you forever.”

Jenny’s eyes misted over but she held back the tears. “I know you will, sweetheart.”

“So, what do you say?” prompted Egg.

“You know it sounds crazy, right?”

“Oh, sure,” answered Sylvia cheerfully.

“Egg, Syl . . . you two have been more than terrific. And Molly and I are very happy you found us. But . . . and I say this with great love and affection . . . you are madder than a hatter. Loopier than a loop. Oh, and nuttier than a fruit cake.”

“If I can prove to you that everything we said is true, would you go?”

Jenny turned to Molly and asked, “So do you want to go to a place that has floating cities, dragons, sea serpents, castles and a princess?”

“Oh, could we please?” asked Molly barely able to contain her enthusiasm.

“Okay, if you can prove what you said is real and not part of a wonderful dream, then my daughter and I are in.” Jenny did not for a moment believe anything was going to happen. She was more afraid that the girls were going to disappoint her daughter.

“How about this. Ring, tend to my suit”. Egg disappeared in a white fog then a moment later reappeared as Flying Girl.

Molly’s eyes flew open and she laughed and clapped.

Jenny’s eyes flew open . . . and they just stayed that way.

“Molly, Jenny . . . may I present Flying Girl, my best friend on three planets.”

Molly jumped up and literally flew into Egg’s arms.

Jenny just sat there staring.

“You should probably blink every once in a while,” teased Sylvia.

“How . . . how did you do that?”

“Just a little magic. So, are you ready to visit a city that floats above a planet in a galaxy far, far away?”

“Egg, don’t quote Star Wars. You sound dorky,” scolded Sylvia.

“Sorry.”

“Will it be dangerous?” Jenny was beginning to believe.

“The trip? No. Easy-peasy.”

“Do we need to pack?”

“Is there anything you absolutely, positively must have?”

“Just my daughter.”

Egg still held Molly, and Sylvia took Jenny’s hand.

“Okay,” said Flying Girl, “here we go.” The girls touched their rings at the same time . . . and in an instant, the world went blank.

*****

A moment later, they were somewhere else.

“Welcome to Aerianna.” It was Queen Rose’Alynnia. They were all standing in the great Throne Room on Q’umulus surrounded by all the pomp and circumstance you would expect in the presence of royalty. Storm had told his friend to expect the girls, so the Queen was ready to greet them.

Without a moment’s hesitation, both Egg and Sylvia ran up and gave their friend a warm embrace. The three of them had been through so much together that the bond between them was forever unbreakable.

“Where is his lordship and Meggy?” Egg asked. She was referring to Lord Z’kkk, Dazzle’s husband and M’egg-Alynnia, her daughter.

“Out and about on some Royal business. They send their regrets but they both hope to see you before you leave. Now, let us not be rude to our guests. Egg, would you do us the honor of making the introductions?” In truth, Dazzle of course knew the names of mother and daughter but as Queen of Aerianna, certain etiquette needed to be observed.

“Oh sure. Your Majesty, may I present our friends - Jenny and her daughter Molly.” Turning to the two earthlings, she said, “Jenny, Molly . . . may I present, Rose’Alynnia, Queen of Aerianna.”

Sylvia who was now standing behind the two nudged them forward and Jenny instinctively curtsied. Molly saw what her mother did and tried almost successfully to do the same thing.

“On behalf of the people of Aerianna, I welcome you both to our world.”

Jenny continued to stare dumfounded. An instant before she had been in a shabby motel room in a little mountain village; now she was in a grand and breathtaking palace on a different world. Her mind was finding it difficult to grasp the reality of it all.

Molly on the other hand was completely unfazed. She looked up at the beautiful Dazzle and asked, “Are you really and truly a queen?”

“Yes, little one.”

“And are there really and truly dragons and sea serpents here?”

“Of course.

“And this is a floating city? Really and truly?” (That was Molly’s new favorite phrase. Really and truly, I kid you not).

“Would you like to see?”

“Oh, yes. Please.”

“Then, with your mother’s permission . . .,” and she looked at Jenny.

“I think we would both like to see . . . if that’s okay with you, your Majesty?” (She almost giggled. Here she was talking to a Queen, in a floating city on a world a billion miles from Earth. That thought would make anybody giddy and giggly).

“Of course. Take my hand little one,” and she led the group of Earthlings out of the Throne Room and on to a balcony. Picking up Molly so the girl would have a better view, Dazzle announced proudly, “I give you Q’umulus.”

“Oooooooooooh,” exclaimed Molly breathlessly. “It’s . . . it’s . . . floating”.

“What do you think Jenny? Pretty cool?” asked Egg.

When she didn’t answer, Egg, Sylvia and the Queen looked at the young mother. They were surprised to see her crying.

“Jenny, are you not well?” asked Rose’Alynnia with real concern.

“Your Majesty . . . is all this real? I’m not dreaming, am I?”

Dazzle gave the young woman her warmest smile. “No, my dear, you are not dreaming. This really is Aerianna . . . and your new home.”

*****

It was Christmas Eve back on earth and Egg and Sylvia were exchanging gifts. Storm had visited Egg the night before and told her how things were progressing on Aerianna. Now she was retelling it to her friend.

“Just after we left, M’eggy introduced herself to Jenny and Molly. And the first thing Jenny asked her about was the Hameggattic Sisters (Egg couldn’t help herself as she smiled proudly). So Meg told her about the Quest and Zynn-Zaz’zia. She was pretty impressed but Molly apparently was so excited by the stories that she couldn’t sit still. She kept yelling, “They’re my friends, they’re my friends.”

“Sometime later they went to meet Ss’ong at her home in the mountains. The princess had put up a Christmas tree . . . the first ever on Aerianna. She had gifts for Jenny and Molly including a new dress. Sassi and Kiss’immee (her daughter) were there. The two kids are the same age and got along great. Apparently, Kissy inherited her mother’s artistic talents and they spent all night drawing pictures of um . . . Flying Girl and rest of the Sisters.

Then Bl’azzz and Soo’ made an appearance and apparently Molly went completely nuts seeing her first red dragon and a real live sea serpent.”

“Did Bl’azzz burp and burn?” asked Sylvia with a knowing grin.

“Naturally.”

“I wish we could have been there.”

“Me, too. Anyway just to make things perfect, that night it snowed.”

“How wonderful . . . a White Christmas.”

“Yeah.”

“You don’t sound too enthusiastic. Is it Jenny?”

“They had to take her to the hospital.”

“Oh no. How is she?”

“Not good.” Egg took a deep breath. “Actually, she’s in really bad shape.”

Syl wiped at her eyes. “Poor Molly . . . she’s too young to lose her mother.”

“Yeah. Anyway, Merry Christmas.”

“You, too,” but neither felt like smiling or celebrating.

*****

After Sylvia left, Egg rejoined her parents, sister and grandmother in the living room.

“Come on, Sis, we’re about to open gifts.”

“Sorry, Ashley . . . I really can’t do it now.”

“What is it, dear one?” asked Grammy. “Is it Jenny?”

“Yeah.”

“You never did tell us about their new home,” said her mother.

Despite how she was feeling, Egg’s eyes crinkled just a bit and she said “It’s . . . well . . . it’s really out of this world.”

“What does that mean?”

“Molly feels like she’s a princess living in a castle. And, I have it on good account that she’s seen her first red dragon.” Egg gave Grammy a wink. The elder Eloise was the only person on earth other than Sylvia that knew her granddaughter was Flying Girl since she had given Egg the flying suit in the first place. Grammy had even been to Aerianna.

“Isn’t it sweet how kids that age have such vivid imaginations?” asked Egg’s mom.

“Yeah.”

“And Jenny?”

“They had to take her to the hospital.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry, sweetheart.”

“Anyway, why don’t you guys go ahead with the gifts? I’m going to bed.”

“Would you like to talk about it some more,” offered Grammy.

“No, thanks. I just need to sleep,” and she gave everyone a hug and a kiss.

*****

That night . . . the night before Christmas . . . Egg had another dream.

“Egg of Earth.”

“Is that really you? Never mind, that’s a silly question.”

“I have brought you a Christmas Gift.”

“You don’t celebrate Christmas, do you?”

“No. But you do.”

“And what would the Myst Tree at Sighing Whorl give a simple little earth girl like me?” she asked amused.

“You are anything but that. You are a rare person. You are selfless and brave and . . .”

“Please, don’t. You’re just embarrassing me.”

“I apologize. Still, I would give you a gift.”

“You don’t have to. Besides, I have nothing for you.”

“Not true. You have given me renewed hope in the spirit of mankind. There are many challenges yet for you to face . . . but I am supremely confident in your success.”

“Thank you . . . I guess.”

“Would you like to know what your gift is?”

“Sure,” she said being polite and a little curious.

“I have cured your friend Jenny of her illness. She, and Molly, will live a long and happy life.”

“Oh my gosh.”

The Night Before Christmas

T’was the night before Christmas,

and all through the house

Not a creature was stirring,

Egg slept like a mouse

Then much to her surprise,

a dream did unfold

It was a giant tree

that glowed bright and bold

“Egg of Earth” I am sorry

to bring you such fright

“But I bear you a gift,

on this very special night.”

“Myst Tree, what could possibly bring you

from Sighing Whorl?”

“And what gift could you give me,

such a simple earth girl?”

“Egg, you are special

in your heart and in your mind

“You give me renewed faith,

in the goodness of mankind.

“On this eve of Christmas,

I give you tidings so true

I have restored Jenny to good health,

her body renewed

She and Molly will now have

many long happy years

So dry your eyes,

there is no need for those tears.”

“Oh, Myst Tree, I love you

from the bottom of my heart

I thank you for this gift,

and I promise to do my part

To fight against evil,

and too always do good

And to this, I pledge

the Hameggattic Sisterhood

The Tree glowed brighter,

then it began to fade away

But he had one more message

and Egg heard him say

“Flying Girl, you are unique,

to this world you bring light

I wish you a Merry Christmas,

and to all a good night”.

From Egg and all her sisters,

thank you for being a fan.

Tee’ka

Book 2, The Serenity Deception

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood

Copyright 2014, by Robert Iannone

All rights reserved

(Book & Illustrations)

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1 – Just Imagine It

Chapter 2 – Getting to Know You

Chapter 3 – Visitation Rites

Chapter 4 – Trading Places

Chapter 5 – The Otherwise Located

Chapter 6 – Lost in Translation

Chapter 7 – The Meaning of Seven

Chapter 8 – Definitely Not in Kansas

Chapter 9 – The Clown & the Lion

Chapter 10 – The Sand Witch

Prologue

The intercom went off throughout the ship. “Everyone, please come to the bridge.”

Most of the girls were in their cabins, a couple were in the galley . . . but they all did as they were told.

“What’s going on, Spirit?” asked Egg. “Is there a problem?”

“No. But there is Laff’Alott,” and she pointed at the big window.

The collective response was, “Ohhhhh.”

“How long till we get there?”

“I’d say about three more hours. Maybe less.”

“I’m getting excited,” said BreeZee. “I used to spend my whole life afraid of every shadow. Now I’m gallivanting around the stars, visiting strange worlds and enjoying the company of friends. I could never have imagined this future.”

“Speaking of the future . . . Spirit, have you taken a peek to see what’s in store for us?” asked Egg.

“No I haven’t. I really hate to know what will probably happen unless there is something dangerous that might befall us. But if you want me to, I guess I could have a look.”

“No. Don’t. I was only wondering. It’s not important. It’s just that the Myst Tree had one of his riddles for me.”

“What?” yelled Soo. Poor Jynxie was so startled she ran and hid under a table.

“What’s wrong?” asked BreeZee.

“That Tree is always giving Egg helpful hints about what’s to come or what to do. But he likes to put it in the form of a riddle. Sometimes it takes forever to figure out what it meant.”

“What did he say?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Something like, ‘Have a great vacation but ‘what is’ may not be.’ And, ‘She who laughs last, laughs best. It didn’t sound like anything serious.”

“No it doesn’t,” agreed Aeri’elle. “It just sounds like we’re in for an interesting time. I, for one, wouldn’t worry about it.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought too.”

“What were you doing visiting the Myst Tree?” asked Spirit.

“Dazzle wanted me to take Ben’Edikk to see him. That’s her son.”

“Why? If I can ask?”

“It’s kind of private . . . but it wasn’t anything important. Sorry to be mysterious.”

“No need to apologize. If it’s the Queen’s business, it probably isn’t ours . . . or at least not mine.”

The conversation ended abruptly when they heard a crackling sound as the communications system come alive with a very serious sounding voice . . . “This is Laff’Alott Control to approaching vessel. Please state your intentions.”

“Who was that?”

“The planet’s traffic control system is calling us and asking what we want. It’s routine. However, they can’t hear my thoughts from this far out. So . . . I tell the ship’s computer and it relays my message.”

“This is the Starship 7 with eight souls on board. We would like permission to enter orbit.”

“Starship 7. Most of Laff’Alott is closed to incoming visitors. Only Fair’Giggle is in operation. And, even they are not at one hundred percent. We apologize for the inconvenience.”

“This is Starship 7. We are aware of your renovations. Fair’Giggle will meet our needs. Permission to orbit and disembark.”

“Starship 7. Permission granted. A hostess will join you shortly to escort your party. Enjoy your stay. Laff’Alott Control out.”

“That was interesting,” observed Egg.

“As I said, it’s routine. Someday Aerianna will need to have a Traffic Control like this one.”

“Spirit, what did he mean when he said a hostess would join us shortly?”

“I’m not exactly sure. I presume it means that they will send a small ship to greet us and guide us into a parking orbit.”

She was wrong.

A moment later, out of nowhere, a shower of sparkles materialized in the control room. They swirled and spun then slowly came together in the form of a . . . person.

“I am Tee’ka. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

Seven girls and a Shamie just stared at the apparition.

“May I have the names of the guests who will be joining me in Fair’Giggle?”

Instead of answering, Egg asked, “What are you?”

“I am Tee’ka. I will be your guide and companion. If you have any needs, you have but to ask. May I have the names of the guests who will be joining me in Fair’Giggle?”

“Are you real?” What Egg meant was ‘are you alive?’

“Yes, I am real. My name is Tee’ka. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

“She’s obviously a computer generated image,” said Aeri’elle.

“Just give her our names,” said Sylvia.

“I’m Egg, and that’s Sylvia, Bl’azzz, Aeri’elle, Soo, Spirit and BreeZee.”

‘Grrrrrr burp’.

“Oh yeah. And that’s Jynx.”

“Welcome to Laff’Alott. Please gather your belongings and we will depart for Fair’Giggle.”

“What about the ship?”

The apparition flickered in and out then said, “A telepath. Welcome to Laff’Alott.”

“No need to speak to me telepathically.”

“Thank you for that information. As to your vessel, it will be placed in orbit for you. Please gather your belongings.”

The girls did as they were asked and returned to the bridge. “I guess we’re ready.”

“Excellent,” and Tee’ka waved the wand she was holding.

The ship disappeared and in a heartbeat, they were standing on a balcony overlooking the city.

“Welcome to Fair’Giggle. If there is anything I can do to make your visit more enjoyable, do not hesitate to ask. Please enjoy your stay on Laff’Alott.”

The girls looked around but it was Egg who said it best. “Oh my gosh”.

Chapter 1 – Just Imagine It

“Wow,” said one of the girls as she surveyed the cityscape of exotically shaped buildings.

“Not what I was expecting,” commented Sylvia.

“I’m with you,” agreed her friend. “I thought it would look like an amusement park on earth . . . only alien and weird. Where are the rides?”

“What are rides?” asked Soo.

“You know . . . roller coasters, teacups, bumper cars, merry-go-rounds.”

“What do they do?”

“Roller coasters take you up a big ramp then you kind of fall off the other side going so fast that you just have to scream. The teacups spin you until you’re so dizzy you barf. Bumper cars let you crash into your friends. And merry-go-rounds . . . um . . . just go round and round.”

Soo shook her head in confusion. “Egg-o, did your mom drop you on your head when you were born?”

“Ohhhh, that would explain a lot,” interjected BreeZee.

“Hey, butterfly girl . . .,” teased Egg. “I only pretend to be a scrambled egg. The real me is very sophisticated and intelligently intellectual.”

“Intelligently intellectual?” repeated Professor Aeri’elle as she scrunched her face at that nonsensical phrase.

“Don’t mind scrambled egg. She may not be the brightest star in the night sky, but she can be almost pleasant when she tries really, really hard.”

“Syl, you need to do some serious work on your compliments.”

The ridiculousness was mercifully interrupted by Tee’ka. “Would this be an opportune time to describe Fair’Giggle and all that it has to offer?”

“Oh, please,” begged Bl’azzz. “These people are giving me gas.”

Six voices cried out, “Don’t you dare.” Jynxie ran to the far end of the room for safety . . . all the while keeping a wary eye on the F’yre Dragon.

Spirit explained to Egg and Sylvia, “About a year ago, Bl’azzz accidently burped a ball of flame that singed poor Jynxie’s tail. For the next month she would run every time Bl’azzz approached.”

“That’s one smart Shamie.”

“You’d be surprised,” responded Spirit cryptically.

Again, Tee’ka tried to do what she was apparently programmed to do. “If it is convenient, please follow me inside.”

They did and what they saw shocked them. The room was completely empty . . . no chairs, no rugs, no lights, no pictures on the walls. Nothing.

Leave it to Soo to express her admiration. “Nice. Refreshingly simple but absolutely non-functional. Who does your decorating?”

Oddly enough, that was exactly the right question to ask.

“In Fair’Giggle, our guests decorate their own rooms.”

Egg couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of that statement. “And just how do we do that?”

“Everything that you wish . . . be it food, adventure, a change in room décor . . . is accomplished by thinking it,” explained Tee’ka.

That bizarre statement caused all seven young ladies to start talking simultaneously. The resulting babble was so annoying that Jynx began to growl and burp . . . a sure sign that she wasn’t happy.

“Please . . . ,” and the computer image waited for silence. “Thank you. If I may, I will explain about this world and about this city. It will take a few minutes so I encourage you to make yourselves comfortable.”

The girls looked around the empty room, then at each other, and shrugged. BreeZee was the first to tell their hostess, “I would be most comfortable on a chair without arms and a narrow back to accommodate my wings.”

Tee’ka didn’t answer . . . but the chair materialized out of thin air.

That brought smiles to seven faces (Jynxie apparently wasn’t impressed).

“I would like a chair in the shape of my space ship.” Spirit was teasing but as the saying goes, ‘your wish is my command,’ and out of nowhere appeared . . . “

Egg and Sylvia each asked for a big comfy red leather chair and two materialized.

Soo got a pond of all things. It was about ten foot square and four feet deep filled with clear blue water. “Ah . . . that’s what I’m talking about,” she said as she slithered in.

The dragons each asked for a large, very thick mat to lie upon.

“I thought you guys like those branches to perch on?” asked Egg.

Aeri’elle explained, “If it’s going to be awhile, we dragons prefer to stretch out. If it’s just for a short time, then we use the branches. They allow us to grasp them with our talons . . . that makes us feel more natural, I’d guess you say.”

“Oh. I did not know that.”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Oops. Tee’ka, Jynxie would like a nice blanket, if you would be so kind?” An instant later, the Shamie was snuggling into her new bed.

“Does anyone wish refreshments before we begin?” asked their hostess.

No one did. But Egg used this moment to ask, “So what exactly are you, Tee’ka?”

“I am a computer-generated holographic projection enhanced with physical manifestation capability and artificial intelligence.” That was a mouthful.

Egg tried her best to stifle a smile at the techno babble . . . but didn’t succeed. Since this was one of the few times that the sisterhood was together without having to save a world, she was feeling particularly mellow and relaxed. So, she felt very comfortable in saying “Yeah. That’s exactly what I thought.” She braced herself for what was about to happen.

But it wasn’t what she expected. Before the rest of the girls could react to that absurd statement, Spirit said, “Jynxie . . . tongue bug, attack Egg.”

The Shamie instantly morphed into a . . .

. . . and jumped on Egg. It began to lick her with a long, very wet blue tongue.

“Hey . . . that’s gross. Jynxie, stop. YUK.” But she didn’t and the other girls howled with laughter.

After a minute, Spirit said, “Jynx, return,” and the animal immediately morphed back into her normal self and trotted over to her bed.

Egg tried valiantly to dry her face with her hands. “Oh my gosh, I need a bath”.

“Don’t you be looking at my pond,” warned Soo.

“What was that thing?” asked BreeZee.

“We came across thousands of them on some planet. That was before I joined you guys on Zynn-Zaz’zia. They were harmless assuming you weren’t allergic to saliva.”

“That wasn’t saliva, that was spit,” complained Egg.

“Don’t be disgusting,” replied Sylvia. But she, too, was smiling.

“Tee’ka,” asked Bl’azzz, “can you explain what you said about what you are? Just keep it really, really simple. We may look smart, but not so much.”

“Of course”. Before she could begin, she began to flicker . . . like a light being turned on and off really fast.

“Uh oh, I think her batteries are running low,” said Egg.

“You are such an airhead.”

Tee’ka stopped flickering. “I have been informed that you are the famous Hameggattic Sisters. I apologize for my failure to recognize you when we first met.” She rotated to look at Egg. “You are Eloise, called Egg and the leader of the Sisterhood. There is an incoming message for you.”

“What?”

“There is an incoming message for you,” repeated Tee’ka unnecessarily.

“Who’s it from?”

“She calls herself Meggy. Do you wish to talk with her?”

“Meggy? Absolutely. How do I do it?” But the hostess didn’t answer. Instead, the face of the Princess materialized in the middle of the room.

“Hello, Egg, Sylvia. It is so very good to see you both again. And my other sisters, it has not been as long, but your beautiful faces are always a welcome sight.”

“Meggy . . . they fixed your scar.”

“Indeed. Though if you were to look very closely, I had the doctors leave a small reminder of my first, and sadly my last, mission as a Hameggattic Sister.”

Sylvia just had to say, “Meg, you look so much older. It’s really hard for Egg and me . . . if you know what I mean?”

“I do. However, our sister K’ssss has remedied that problem as I am sure you are aware.”

“Wish she could have done it sooner.”

“As do I.”

“Meggy, are you okay? You don’t need rescuing or anything, do you?”

The Princess laughed. “No, Egg. I am well.”

“Where exactly are you? Not on Aerianna, I’m guessing.”

“Correct. I am in the capitol city of Pella Mang’olia on the planet Peekaboo Prime.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

“Why do you ask that?”

“Peekaboo? What kind of a name is that for a planet?”

“Actually, it is very appropriate. This system has two planets that revolve around each other – much like earth and its moon. Only here, the larger planet, SunnySide, does not rotate, again like earth’s moon. So one side always faces its sun – hence the name.”

“And Peekaboo?”

“The smaller planet rotates around SunnySide and appears in the west then disappears in the east about ten times a day. It was said to be playing peekaboo with the inhabitants of SunnySide.”

“Ah. That’s cool.”

“That it is. Anyway, I have been on a diplomatic mission meeting with the Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta of the Starlight Alliance. The world that you are on – Laff’Alott – is part of that alliance.”

“Wait a minute. What was that name again?”

“Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta. However, she is referred to as Her Imperial Majesty, the Empress Violetta.”

Egg stole a glance at Sylvia who had put her hand over her mouth so she wouldn’t laugh.

“Wow.”

“When one is on a diplomatic mission, one does not pass judgment on such things as names . . . regardless of your personal feelings.”

“Gotcha. So, besides saying hello, was there another reason for this call?”

Meg smiled again. “Need there be other reasons?”

“Of course not . . . but there is, right?”

“Ah, Egg my dearest sister, you never cease to amaze me.”

“So?”

“I just wanted to warn . . . to inform . . . you that the stories of the Hameggattic Sisterhood have been made available to her Imperial Majesty. She is very intrigued.”

“And?”

“One never knows how the Empress will react. I called to caution you that though you are on vacation, do not let your guard down completely. Do you understand?”

“Not really . . . but okay. We’ll stay alert.”

“Very good. Do try to enjoy your stay in Fair’Giggle. I am told it has much to offer.”

“Why don’t you come join us?”

“Would that I could. However, you must promise to visit with me upon your return. Do I have your word? All of you?”

“As the leader of this group of wandering whacky women, I promise.”

“Until then . . . enjoy yourselves. But do be careful.”

*****

“What do you think?” Egg asked the girls.

“I’m so glad they repaired the scar,” said Aeri’elle. “I’m still amazed at how well she handled the whole episode.”

“Yeah. Mega-brat became mega-amazing. But I was talking about her warning.”

“If I was the Empress,” began BreeZee, “I would want to see if the sisterhood might be a threat.”

“Why would we be a threat? And a threat to what?” asked Soo.

“I’m not sure. Maybe she’s afraid that we might help her enemies.”

“What enemies?”

“She rules an alliance of planets. There’s bound to be somebody that doesn’t like her.”

“Bree, that’s pretty good thinking,” complimented Sylvia.

“Thanks.”

“So if that’s true, what would she do?” asked Bl’azzz.

“I, for one, would want to see just how good the sisterhood was,” replied Aeri’elle. “But since the Empress and Dazzle seem to be working towards some kind of treaty, she can’t do anything that could upset the negotiations. So whatever she might have planned can’t be too dangerous for us.”

“Or maybe she had nothing planned. Maybe she’ll just keep an eye on us,” suggested Spirit.

“No way.” The girls all looked at Egg. “That would be too easy. And the one thing that doesn’t change is it’s never easy for the sisterhood.”

“So what do you suggest?” asked Aeri’elle.

“Like Meggy said . . . stay alert and have fun.”

“Kind of puts a damper on things,” moaned Bl’azzz.

“As Grammy has told me about a thousand times, don’t worry about what you can’t change. So, where were we?”

“Tee’ka was about to explain exactly what she is,” Sylvia reminded her sisters.

“Okay, Tee’ka. So tell us . . . what are you? Oh, but easy on the techno babble please.”

“Of course,” said their hostess. Then it happened again . . . she flickered for a few seconds.

“Now what?”

“Before I begin, I have been instructed to tell you, Egg, that as long as you are on this planet, your flying suit will not function.”

“WHAT?”

“I have been instructed to tell you that as long as you are on this planet, your flying suit will not function.” Apparently, Tee’ka was unfamiliar with earth expressions.

“Who told you and why?”

“The termination of your suit functions was requested by her Imperial Majesty, Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta. No reason was given.”

“Well, that didn’t take her very long.”

“How do you stop the suit from functioning?” asked Aeri’elle.

“Are you familiar with high-energy quantum physics?”

“No.”

“Then my explanation would have little meaning.”

“Egg, are you getting goose bumps?” asked her Feminion. Her friend seemed to have a sixth sense about danger . . . and it was her goose bumps that let her know.

“No. How weird is that?”

“Can I say something?” asked BreeZee.

“You don’t have to ask permission.”

“If it were me, I would want to know if the Sisterhood succeeded because one of its members had an unfair advantage . . . namely the only flying suit in the universe.”

“Bree, wow”. Sylvia said it, but all the girls were equally impressed.

“How did you become so clever?” teased Spirit.

“Don’t be silly,” answered the Wind’dancer modestly. “I only seem clever . . . compared to the rest of you.” Her face lit up with a giant grin, her eyebrows arched up and she blushed at her bold joke.

“Jynxie . . .,” yelled Egg, “do the tongue bug thing on her.”

The Shamie didn’t even look up.

“Hey, you oversized teddy bear . . .,” but Spirit interrupted her.

“She doesn’t know you well enough, Egg. You need to spend some quality time with her.”

“If she doesn’t snore, she can sleep in my room tonight.”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Shut up.”

“If you people would concentrate for a minute,” demanded Soo. “I don’t like it. Flying Girl that can’t fly. That would make you just . . . um . . . Girl.”

“I don’t think we should be that concerned,” replied Spirit. “Tee’ka said that anything we want on this planet we get just by thinking it. Why would Egg even need to fly?”

There was a minute of silence as the girls gave that some thought.

Sylvia answered for the group. “Got nothing.”

“Look, let’s worry about it when it becomes a worry. We always have the option of leaving.” No one objected. “Tee’ka, if you could stop blinking for a minute, tell us about yourself then about Fair’Giggle.”

“As you wish, Egg.”

Chapter 2 – Getting to Know You

“First, I must tell you that few of our visitors have any interest in me or any of the hosts or hostesses. So I thank you for that question.”

“How could they not find you interesting?” asked Spirit. “Are your kind that common in the Starlight Alliance?”

“We are not unique to this world though the technology, I have been told, is very expensive. That limits the number of planets that can afford us.”

“So you’re not just a computer projection?”

“Yes and no, Aeri’elle. It is true that I was not born of flesh and blood but I am very much my own person. For instance, I feel gratitude that you are taking this opportunity to learn about me and my kind. However, the computer takes the essence of who I am and projects it into the form you see before you.”

“You did change your color though.” The other six girls looked at BreeZee.

“What are you talking about?” asked Egg.

“On the ship her hair was green and her skin white . . .

but now . . . .” and she pointed at the blue-green skin, reddish-brown hostess.

“And, in my opinion, this look is much more exotic. I like it.”

Egg looked at Sylvia. “How come you didn’t notice that, my Feminion?”

“I’m definitely slipping. I’m so distracted by everything – you know, the big picture -  that I don’t even see the obviously obvious detail.”

Addressing BreeZee, Tee’ka said “I can actually change into any color combination that suits my whim or the client’s taste. However, in the last twenty years, the length of time since I was created, no one ever commented about this aspect of me or any of the other hostesses . . . assuming that they even noticed. You were the first. I do thank you.”

“Doesn’t that make you a little sad?” asked Bl’azzz.

“In ways you could not imagine.” She paused then said, “I am terribly sorry. Please forgive me. You did not come to Laff’Alott to suffer through the tedious story of my life. If you wish to file a formal complaint with Fair’Giggle management, I will see that they receive it. At the very least, I will ask for another hostess to be assigned to your needs. Again, I ask your forgiveness. My behavior has been unprofessional.”

“Hey,” cried Egg, “first of all you’re doing exactly what we asked . . . telling us about yourself. Second, we don’t want anybody else. We want you. And third, lighten up, girl. We’re all friends here . . . and that includes you.” She turned to the others and asked, “Am I right or am I right?”

“Absolutely” and “yes” were the most common responses. Soo, however, put it a little more poetically - “unconditionally and unquestionably undeniable.” Then she added, “Hey, that’s the first time with three ‘u’ words. How good am I?” That was greeted with a series of one-word insults  . . .

“Unbelievable.”

“Unimaginative.”

“Uninteresting.”

“Uninspiring.”

“Unoriginal.”

“Undistinguished.”

Then Tee’ka surprised them all with her own “underwhelming” and laughed. Then “Oops, sorry.” But it was too late. Everyone was laughing.

“That’s much better,” encouraged Egg. “So, keep going. Tell us everything.”

Tee’ka slowly turned around so she could look at each girl in turn. “Thank you. I have been programmed with the knowledge of laughter and friendship but I have never experienced either one first hand with corporeal beings such as yourselves. It is most exciting.”

“What did she say?” Egg asked the group.

“I think she means that she doesn’t have friends other than ones like herself,” offered BreeZee. “She, and they, are computer simulations while we’re corporeal – beings with bodies.”

The girls all stole a look at one another. They were beginning to feel very badly for their hostess. And without saying a word, each vowed to make their stay as enjoyable for Tee’ka as it promised to be for them.

“As I mentioned, I was created twenty years ago . . . as were all the others of my kind. There were versions of us prior to that but they were not as sophisticated as we are. The scientist who is credited with our existence is . . .  was . . .  Astral Sing.  She died during a catastrophic failure of some very exotic energy device she was developing. Her life was a celebration of truly innovative science and engineering and the Starlight Alliance will miss her brilliance. What is more sad, unfortunately, was that her daughter Serenity was terribly injured in the same accident. Her prodigious intelligence promised to surpass even that of her mother’s.” Tee’ka paused her story and asked, “Am I providing too much detail?”

Egg answered for the sisterhood. “No way. It’s really interesting and besides, we have lots of time. So what happened to Serenity?”

“I have no information on that subject.”

That was a weird response since she was the one that brought it up to begin with.

“What does that mean?” persisted Egg.

“After the accident, Serenity left Laff’Alott. She has provided no further updates as to her location or activities.”

“How old is she now?”

“The accident occurred four years ago when Serenity was fourteen.”

“Tee’ka . . . um . . . I’m not sure how to ask this,” began BreeZee. “You said you were your own person. Does that mean that no one can control what you say and do? Oh, and are you recording everything that happens?”

Egg turned to Sylvia who stopped her from stating the obvious. “I know, I know. I’m your Feminion but she’s doing a better job at it than I am.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“I can read your face.”

“Really? What does it say now?”

“That your one card short of having a full deck . . . you whack-a-mole.”

“No. It was saying ‘I’d love some chocolate ice cream’. And with that, a swirl of light formed in front of Egg and slowly became a bowl of ice cream. “Now that’s what I call room service.”

“Would anyone else care for some refreshments?”

No one did. However, BreeZee persisted with, “Tee’ka, about my questions?” and she left the thought unfinished.

“I am free to do whatever I deem necessary to make your stay safe and enjoyable.” She hesitated as if she was considering what else she might say. “You should know that my independence can be overwritten . . . though that happens very rarely.”

“Who would do that?” asked Aeri’elle.

“And why?” added Sylvia trying to regain a little of her Feminion-like ways.

“Anyone with access to my programming . . . and for any reason they choose.”

That was kind of ominous. But BreeZee asked the all-important question. “Would you know that it was being done? Could you stop it from happening?”

Again, everyone was impressed with the Wind’dancer. However, Sylvia shook her head . . . disgusted with her poor performance as Egg’s brain.

“My answer is really no answer at all. I may or may not be aware. I may or may not be able to stop it. I may or may not be able to tell you that it’s happening. I’m sorry.”

No one could think of anything to say to that. Unfortunately, Egg got goose bumps . . . but kept it to herself.

“What about being recorded?” pressed Bree.

“As a matter of routine, everything is recorded unless you command me not to.”

“Why would they spy on us?”

“It is not considered spying. It is how Laff’Alott improves the experience of our visitors. You, for instance, could ask to be shown a world that you have never visited, but one that another guest has. It is by sharing experiences we are able to provide the most exciting vacation possible.”

That seemed reasonable  . . .  sort of.

“Tee’ka, when you’re not with us . . . or with any guest . . . where do you go? Do they just turn you off?”

“I reside inside the vast computer complex that controls this world. This may be difficult to understand, but I live in a virtual world that is as real to me as your homes are to you.”

“All of your kind live in there, right?” asked Soo.

“Yes, exactly.”

“To what end?” asked Aeri’elle. “No offense, but why don’t they just shut you off until you’re needed?”

“We live the experiences of our guests. This way we learn what will please or displease them. It is our way of evolving . . .  to improve ourselves so we can better serve those who visit our world.”

“Can you give us an example?” asked Bl’azzz who wasn’t quite following the conversation.

“Of course. Egg, when we first arrived, you mentioned that there were no rides and you listed a few. Please, think about one of them . . .  relive the experience in your mind.”

“Why?”

“Humor me.”

“Okay.” And she closed her eyes and thought about the time that she had flown Grammy and Sylvia to Disney World. The memory made her smile. She opened her eyes and said, “Now what?”

“Now, if you agree, we shall share that experience.” She looked from girl to girl and they all nodded yes or shrugged okay.

“Very good,” and she waved the wand that she held. The room dissolved and in its place was a teacup ride. The girls were in cups either by themselves or with another . . . and they were whirling around at a dizzying pace.

Egg and Sylvia were grinning while Aeri’elle eeked in horror, Soo h’ssssed with laughter, BreeZee smiled knowing that this was child’s play compared to an Ascension Storm, Spirit’s eyes glowed red and Bl’azzz was burping and burning continuously.

After two minutes, the ride began to slow then came to a stop. A blink of an eye later they were back in their room sitting on their chairs.

“ARE YOU NUTS?” screamed Bl’azzz.

“I’m so sorry,” apologized Tee’ka.

“She was yelling at me, not you.”

“Oh.”

“Listen you big, lily-livered dragon . . . ,” teased Egg, “. . . on earth that’s a little kid’s ride.”

“No way.”

“Way.”

“You put your children in that thing? Are you heartless barbarians?”

“Excuse me,” interrupted BreeZee. “The important thing here is that with a wave of her wand, Tee’ka recreated Egg’s memory of that contraption. I don’t know about you, but I think I’m more than a little impressed.”

Sylvia had a different notion. “Before we get into that, I would like to understand how that demonstration answers the question of why Tee’ka and the rest relive these experiences.”

“When I have the opportunity, I will ‘ride’ the teacups to better understand why Egg found it amusing. I will also relive the experience of the rest of you since each reacted very differently. Once I understand your emotions, I will find a way to incorporate the activity into other simulations that you might enjoy.”

“Don’t you be putting that ride in anything I do,” commanded Bl’azzz.

“You misunderstand. There may be times when experiencing such discomfort fits into an adventure that you might envision. It is not always pleasure that satisfies . . . sometimes being scared or uncomfortable is more appropriate.”

“No teacups,” Bl’azzz repeated as she glared at their hostess.

“As you wish.”

“Tee’ka, how did you create that ride out of thin air?” asked Sylvia. “That seems so magical.”

“I didn’t create the ride. I created the experience in your mind. In essence, you seven shared a common daydream.”

“Well, this is one heck of an amusement park,” declared Egg.

But Sylvia wasn’t quite satisfied with the answer she had received. “So, you can’t actually create stuff out of thin air?”

“Um, what about our chairs and Egg’s ice cream,” BreeZee reminded the other girl.

Sylvia blushed from embarrassment. “I forgot. Sorry.”

“No need to apologize. For worlds without this technology, it must seem very confusing. If I may continue . . .,” and she waited to see if anyone objected. “That technology also allows me to be both a projection and a solid object. It is all part of Astral Sing’s brilliance and imagination.”

“She must have been one smart lady . . . kind of like our dear K’ssss,” said Soo.

“I do not know of your friend. However, and I mean no disrespect, an intelligence such as Doctor Sing possessed occurs once in a millennium. The fact that her daughter also has the same remarkable ability is an occurrence so rare as to defy logic.”

“And nobody knows what happened to her. To Serenity?”

“When she lost her mother, she was inconsolable. Perhaps she needed time alone to refocus her life.”

“Tee’ka, we would love to hear more of your story. But for now, could you tell us what to expect in Fair’Giggle. How do we make the most of our stay?”

“Of course, Spirit. First, there are a number of cities on Laff’Alott though they are all closed at the moment. I will mention them by name without boring you with details. There is Give’Ahoot, Go’Lightly, Chuckle Downs, Chortle-Loony, Grin’topia, Deep Guffaw, New Smile, B’Happy, Cheer-fulonia, Lolli-opolis, Mad’Hattan and Horse’Around. Each caters to individuals of various ages and interest.

Fair’Giggle was designed for young adults who wish to experience nostalgic events, surreal dreams and high adventure. The first refers to such things as Egg’s teacup ride or perhaps reliving a memory of someone who is no longer in your life. Surreal dreams is most interesting. It takes memories of books, stories or events and blends them into something both familiar and eerily different. Be warned, the results can range from overly happy to terrifyingly scary versions of what is almost remembered. The last is based on pure imagination. For example, perhaps you would like to match wits with an evil villain . . .”

The girls looked at each other then started to giggle. Egg said, “Sorry, we’ve done that more than once.”

“I should have realized that. The famous Hameggattic Sisterhood is renowned for such exploits.”

“Yeah . . . not so much.”

“I will finish quickly. In Fair’Giggle, you may experience anything that your memory or imagination can summon or anything that one of our previous guests has experienced. This can be done either as a daydream – like with the teacups as an example – or, we can create that ride in physical form for you to experience. You may participate as an active part of the simulation or as a passive observer, where you can watch your friends without actually partaking. Bl’azzz, for instance, would have been in the daydream but only as an observer . . . not as a rider. And lastly, you may enjoy any of this either on your own, with your friends or with any willing guest.”

“Wow. That’s going to take a little time to digest,” said Aeri’elle.

“Tee’ka, will you be with us during each . . . um . . . adventure?”

“Only a hostess has the ability to activate the computer complex to create your simulations. Therefore, I must remain with your group throughout your stay. Should you break up into smaller groups, or venture off as individuals, I will duplicate myself and accompany each of you. As to participating in your recreations . . . no. That is not allowed. However, I will be an observer for reasons I have already explained. Please know that once in a simulation, you will not see me unless you call for my assistance.”

The girls looked at each other. This was going to be one memorable vacation.

They were right . . . unfortunately, not for the reasons they expected.

Chapter 3 – Visitation Rites

“So, Tee’ka, any suggestions as to what we should do first?”

“Egg, I would suggest avoiding Surreal Dreams and High Adventure until you get accustom to our simulations. A Nostalgic Event is usually the best place to begin your enjoyment of our world. However, be sure to discuss your choice with each other. This way any member of the group can choose to observe rather than participate to avoid the unfortunate discomfort the teacups caused Bl’azzz.”

“Sounds like a plan. Who wants to go first?”

They all did.

“Okay, stop. Let’s do it alphabetically. Aeri’elle will be first, followed by Bl’azzz, BreeZee, me then . . . hmmm . . . Soo, Spirit then Sylvia.”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Are you kidding me? Jynx wants a turn?”

“Why not?”

“Tee’ka . . . can you do Jynx?”

The hostess flickered for a second. “Normally, it would not be possible to accommodate an animal. But the Shamie is sentient . . . in a primitive way. So, yes. Jynx may have a turn.”

“Grrrrrr.”

“You’re quite welcome, Jynx.”

“I think I’ll be just an observer in that one,” instructed Egg.

Like the rest, BreeZee was anxious to get going. “Aeri’elle, what’s your pleasure?”

“Tee’ka, I would like a tour of the most prestigious university that any of your guests have ever visited. Is that possible?”

“Of course. May I ask why?”

“My father and I have been given the honor of creating an inter-species college on Aerianna. If I can see what other worlds consider extraordinary, it may help guide me in ways I had not considered.”

“Excellent. And will everyone else like to participate or observe?”

Since it didn’t seem dangerous, nauseating or dizzying – only a little boring – they all agreed to take part. Jynxie, however, chose not to go. How Tee’ka understood the Shamie’s intent was not obvious to the rest.

And in the next instant, they were somewhere else . . . at least in their minds. But it seemed as real as if it were . . . well, really real. Standing in front of them was a three legged thingy. And though it did not have an obvious mouth, he said, “Welcome to the Stellar Theoretical University of Philosophical and Intellectual Discourse . . . however, we refer to ourselves as S.T.U.P.I.D. for the sake of brevity. My name is Dean Wormer and I will be your tour guide.”

The name and the weird looking creature made all seven girls smile. Egg asked him “what are you?”

“As I said, I am a Dean. I teach a class called The Metaphysical Analysis of Absolutely Nothing.” You could hear the pride in his voice as he said it.

“Of course you do,” teased the girl, not even bothering to ask him what a course about nothing was supposed to be. “I meant what are you? I’m a human as are those three. These two are dragons and she’s a sea serpent.”

“Ah. You wish to know what species I am. Well, I assumed that it was joyfully obvious but apparently, I was mistaken. I am a One-Eyed, One-Horned, Triple-legged Sighing Purple Steeple Bleater.”

Egg laughed. “Yeah, you are.”

The Dean glared at the girl with his one enormous eye. “If you have no further annoying, bothersome or irksome inquiries, I will commence the tour.” Even if there were any other questions, the girls were too intimidated to ask. “Very well, if you would all be so good as to turn around . . .” and they did. The sight made them sigh a collective ‘Ohhh’. “ . . . I give you the galaxy’s most famous institute of higher learning. Welcome to S.T.U.P.I.D.”

*****

It took the better part of four hours to explore the huge complex. When they finished, the Dean bade them good day and slowly dissolved into nothing. A moment later, they were back in their room at the hotel – the one they never actually left.

“That was awesome.”

“I’m very pleased you found it interesting, Aeri’elle. Did you see anything that you might want to incorporate into your own university?”

“Where do I begin . . .,” and the dragon rattled off about two dozen items that she had found particularly spectacular. “And, I’m going to ask the Queen to invite one of their faculty as a guest lecturer. I thought Dean Wormer was simply marvelous.”

“That guy had one big eyeball,” observed Egg. The other girls (except the proud dragon) tittered.

Ignoring her friend, Aeri’elle asked Tee’ka, “What can you tell me about his kind?”

“They are very advanced. The whole species dedicate their entire lives to studying the unknowable. In fact, they consider it socially unacceptable to actually determine the answer to the questions they pose.”

“Really? That seems  . . . um, strange,” said the dragon.

The hostess shrugged. “It takes all kinds.” As soon as she said it, Tee’ka put her hand over her mouth as if to get the words back. But it was too late . . . the girls all broke out laughing. They really were in a good mood. Heck, this was a vacation.

“Tee, you’re beginning to sound like us. Good job.”

“Egg, my name is actually Tee’ka but you may address me by any appellation you find fitting.”

“No, you goofy, gullible guide. ‘Tee’ is just an abbreviation for Tee’ka. It’s like a nickname . . . like Egg. It’s one of the ways we show friendship.”

Tee’ka stared at the girl for a few seconds. Then she flickered, floated over and gave Egg a hug. “Thank you. I have never had a nickname before. I will forever treasure such a wonderful gift.”

Hmmm, that response kind of made the girls feel badly for their new friend. On an impulse, Egg asked, “Can you leave Laff’Alott if you wanted?”

“Leave? Where would I go?”

“You could come with us. I have plenty of room on my ship.”

“For what purpose?”

“Explore the universe with us. Help the Sisterhood the next time we go fight a bad guy. Or just take a vacation and pal around with seven lovely ladies and their loveable Shamie,” suggested BreeZee.

Tee’ka flickered. A moment later, she said, “A conflict has occurred in my programming. Please stand by. Please stand by,” and she winked out.

“What just happened?” asked Egg.

“I think it’s our fault,” replied Sylvia. All eyes turned to look at her. “Our offer to take her with us is causing a problem with her program. On one hand, she was created to be a hostess on this world. On the other hand, except for the lack of blood and bones, she’s just a girl. And I think that girl desperately wants to go with her new friends.”

“What should we do?”

“I suggest we take it slowly with her. Show her what friendship is but don’t force her to make a decision that goes against her basic reason for being,” suggested BreeZee.

“I agree,” added Syl.

Just then, Tee’ka reappeared. “Apologies. I thank you for your very kind offer but it is not possible. Would someone else care to go next?”

Egg didn’t like that response. It didn’t sound like Tee’ka. But before she could say something, Syl put her hand on her friend’s arm. “Let it go for now,” she whispered.

“Okay”. To the group she said, “Bl’azzz, you big fraidy cat, it’s your turn.”

“What I would love to experience is when Dazzle and Storm first became friends. But I guess that’s not possible.”

“Actually,” answered Tee’ka, “it is possible. Your Queen kept a diary when she was young . . .”

“Say what now?” Egg was stunned. Dazzle had never mentioned that she had one.

“As part of the cultural exchange between Aerianna and Peekaboo Prime, Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta has shared her childhood diary with Queen Rose’Alynnia. The Queen reciprocated and gave the Empress a copy of hers. It is now available to one and all.”

“Oh my gosh, I can’t believe she never told me.”

“Hey big bird, as a preeminent professor of the past, did you know about the diary?” asked Soo.

Before Aeri’elle could answer, Bl’azzz teased her friend with, “Where did you find a word like preeminent? I didn’t think fish knew words with more than five letters.”

“Who you calling a fish, you gargantuan gas bag?”

“Enough already,” said the other dragon. “And the answer is kind of.”

“What ‘kind of’ answer is ‘kind of’?”

“There were rumors of a diary but the Queen never spoke of it. So we had no way of knowing for sure.”

“Don’t you think she should have given it to you or your father so it could be included in the history of Aerianna?” asked BreeZee.

“What I think isn’t important. Obviously, up until now, Dazzle didn’t want to share her most personal feeling with everyone. Egg, you’re the only one here that has ever kept a diary. What do you think?”

“Um, most of what I write about nowadays is Hameggattic Sister stuff. Before that, it was stupid . . . and I do mean stupid . . . kid things. Dazzle was twenty when she went to earth. That means she had dated his Lordship for about four years. She probably wrote a lot about the guy she loved. That would be way too personal to share with everyone.”

“Are you saying that you never wrote about your boyfriend in your diary?” Spirit asked it seriously but it was meant as a tease.

Egg blushed. “That’s for me to know and for you to never find out,” and she stuck out her tongue.

“Bl’azzz, do you still wish to relive your Queen’s first encounter with her best friend?”

“Absolutely.”

Since Storm was Aeri’elle’s great grandfather, she was almost jumping with anticipation. “Bl’azzz, I wish I had thought of this. I owe you one.”

Everyone else was just as eager to participate.

“May I suggest that you simply observe. Your participation might prove a distraction to the actual events.” They all agreed. “Then, what you are about to experience is a recreation based on the Queen’s entries which I will narrate for your benefit. Be warned, however, that when the diary jumps from one memory to the next, so will the simulation. It can prove a little disorienting. If you are ready . . .” and everyone nodded “. . . then we begin.”

*

They were in a well-appointed bedroom in the palace on Q’umulus . . . one befitting a royal princess. It appeared to be late in the evening for the view out the window was pitch black. One of the two moons was clearly visible and it cast an orange glow on the lone inhabitant. It was Rose’Alynnia. She looked to be ten or twelve years of age . . . younger than Egg or Sylvia were now. Dressed in a beautiful nightgown of some silky iridescent blue material, she was seated at a desk. Her head was bent over her diary and she was busy writing an entry . . .

[Voice of Tee’ka]: “Tomorrow I will pay my respects to Queen F’Aerianne and so begins the last leg of my banishment. The thought of spending any length of time with Dragons is a depressing one. Other than my dearest Kl’air, they are all so grumpy.

However, my father has proven yet again to be the wisest man I know. Though I would never tell him, I enjoyed my visit with the Duke and Duchess. They were wonderful tutors and two of the nicest, kindest people I have ever met. And K’oral was just as wonderful. I’ve come to think of her as a friend. So his first two choices were excellent. I hope this one will prove to be as good.

Just to be sure things go my way, I’ve concocted a little plan. Perhaps it’s a tad dangerous, but I think the reward outweighs the risks. Besides, I’m bored and some excitement is just the thing to get my spirits up. I will have Kl’air fly me on her back to Talon’s Perch. If that doesn’t impress that cantankerous woman, nothing will.”

*

The bedroom faded away. They were now flying alongside Rose and the dragon Kl’air. In the distance was the castle city of Talon’s Perch . . . a gloomy place but spectacular as is sat perched on the very pinnacle of a mountaintop.

As they approached, the scene abruptly changed again. They were now in the throne room of Queen F’Aerianne. She didn’t look all that happy to see the Princess.

[Voice of Tee’ka]: “I’m such a loveable princess. Really and truly. But that old biddy purposely tried to make me angry.  For the most part, I behaved exceedingly well, all things considered. Reluctantly, I will admit she finally goaded me into saying things probably best left unsaid.

Just in case my father should hear about this little encounter, I will endeavor to remember and record every word if I need to defend my honor.

It started well enough. I bowed deeply and greeted her as if I weren’t the Royal Princess. No simple task, that.

She responded with a thinly veiled complaint. “Your father has honored me. It is not often that Dragons are asked to teach Humans.”

“The honor is mine, your Majesty,” I answered ignoring the rudeness of her statement. “This is an opportunity I look forward to.” That, of course, was a polite lie but one that was expected of me.

But she refused to accept it at face value. “Why is that? Are you not always welcome in the realm of Dragons? Must you visit or avail yourself of these opportunities only when good King M’earth commands it?”

I was at a loss for words . . . that in itself was irritating.

And now I’m really and truly bored writing about her. I’ll just jot down two other things that happened. First, after she made me mad I told her “When I become Queen, I will command the Crystal Egg to knock that chip off your shoulder.” Probably shouldn’t have said that.

A bit later, she asked, “Is it true that you really flew from Q’umulus on wings made by serpents?”

The girl broke out in a big grin. “Yes. But my friend Kl’air flew beside me just in case things went badly.”

“So you trusted your life to a Dragon?”

“I did. And I would again.”

That made her smile. Yay.

*

The scene abruptly shifted again. They were standing on a turret of the castle watching Rose look at the spectacular view.

[Voice of Tee’ka]: “I have to hurry and write down everything that happened. For some reason, meeting Storm gave me goose bumps. I have a really good feeling about him . . . even if he is a boy.

I was standing on one of the highest turrets in the castle. From this vantage point, I could see a hundred miles in every direction. It was impressive – especially looking down on the thunderstorms floating through the valleys. The flashes of lightning were spectacular and made the little hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

“Hi.”

I jumped at the unexpected voice.

“Sorry. Didn’t mean to scare you.”

“I wasn’t scared.”

“My name is Storm. Should I call you Rose or Rose’Alynnia?”

“You may call me Princess.”

“Then you have to call me Prince,” he said petulantly.

“Why in heaven’s name would I do that?”

“Because I am one.”

“Really? I don’t remember ever meeting you.”

“Um . . . they kind of keep me away from really important people.”

I giggled (I really must learn not to do that. It’s so childlike). “Why?”

“I’m a little clumsy. And sometimes I forget to talk like I’m supposed to . . . you know like don’t say don’t, and you can’t say can’t. Stuff like that.”

“I never heard of a clumsy dragon – sounds dangerous. Did you ever step on someone?”

“Um . . . I’m not supposed to talk about that.”

“So what in the world could YOU teach ME?”

“Um . . . the first thing is how to fly on a dragon’s back.”

“Really?”

“The Queen said that somebody saw you fly into Talon’s Perch on the back of your friend and it looked like you were going to fall off any second. So she wants me to teach you how to do it right.”

“You’re going to teach me? A klutzy dragon who probably has never even met a human girl?”

“Um . . . yeah.”

“No way. You’ll just get us both killed.”

“Um . . . I supposed to tell you that if you say no, I have to teach you the history of Queen F’Aerianne’s family.  That’s more than a hundred generations.”

“Like you really know that much history?”

“She’s my aunt so it’s my family too. Besides, I’m pretty smart.”

“For a dragon?” That was kind of insulting and I shouldn’t have said it.

“I guess. I’m not really sure how smart humans are.”

“Anyway, that’s just memorization. What else can that brain of yours do?”

“Um . . . I sometimes do stuff with Ven’trrr. He’s a scientist . . .”

“What kind of work could you possibly do for him? Lift heavy lab equipment?” That was more than a little rude. I guess sometimes I can be a bit of a brat.

He shrugged and said, “Different stuff.”

“Like what?”

“Mathematics mostly.”

“What?” That sounded absurd.

“They couldn’t figure out the equations for the sub-atomic interference patterns needed to isolate the wave function for the inter-galactic . . .”

“You did the math for that thingy? I don’t believe it.”

“I guess I have a knack for numbers and stuff like that.”

“You got to be kidding me?”

“Not exactly.”

“Listen, no offense, but I don’t think you can teach me anything.” However, I was wrong.

“Actually, I am giving you your first lesson as we speak.” Suddenly his voice was filled with self-confidence and smug amusement.

Sensing the change in his demeanor and realizing I was the butt of some yet to be explained joke, I actually blushed. “What’s going on here? Who are you, really?”

“As I said, my name is Storm and I am a Prince. We did meet but that was a few years ago. You were very young . . . for a human.”

“But why were you pretending to be such a ding-bat.”

“To make my point. We Royals have a responsibility to judge others on their own merits and not through the prism of our own preconceptions. I am a young dragon so you were more than willing to accept the fact that I was a bumbling adolescent with limited intelligence. However, I was presumably sent by Queen F’Aerianne herself. Would she actually send such an inept person to teach the daughter of King M’earth?”

“Well, I guess not,” I mumbled sounding like a numbskull.

“Of course she wouldn’t. So you ignored your powers of reasoning and common sense and let your prejudices take over.”

“I AM NOT prejudiced.”

“The fact that I am Dragon, young and a male led you to believe the worst.”

“That’s not true.” Of course, it was true . . . I lied.

“If you can’t be honest with yourself, you can’t be honest with anyone.”

Now that really infuriated me. To avoid the unmitigated horror of admitting I was in the wrong, I changed the subject and asked, “So you’re not actually going to teach me to ride?”

“On the contrary. Climb up.” I hesitated but he said, “I’m not really clumsy. In fact I’ve heard it said that I’m rather graceful.”

“Ha . . . if anyone said that, it was probably your mother.” I slid on his back, just forward of his wings, and took hold. “Oh my gosh . . . no seat belts,” I teased.

“Humans!” he replied in feigned (I think) disgust.

“Don’t be grumpy.”

“Don’t be silly. I’m tons of fun. Are you ready?”

“Just one question before we go.”

“What?”

“Are you really good at mathematics?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. I’m a dragon” and with a loud ‘eeek’ he took off.

*

A moment later, the scene dissolved and the sisters were back in their room.

Chapter 4 – Trading Places

Egg was the first to speak. “I loved it. Young Dazzle would have made a great Sister.”

“I loved the way she thinks,” added Sylvia forgetting that the scene had happened a little over a thousand years ago. “Riding on her friend’s back was wickedly smart.”

BreeZee was beaming. “I loved the fact that she apparently jumped off Q’umulus.  That would make any Wind’dancer proud.”

“She was just as crazy as we were when we casually walked into the Seven Lands,” added Soo. “I never knew she did that.”

“I liked the way she stood her ground with the Queen. The girl had gumption,” said Spirit.

“Never knew Storm was so handsome. Hey, Big Bird . . .,” teased Bl’azzz, “. . . how come you didn’t get any of his good looks?”

Only Aeri’elle was less than enthused. All she could mumble was, “She didn’t like dragons.”

The girls looked at each other, but it was Tee’ka who said, “If I might make an observation?”

“Of course, Tee.”

“Her best friend Kl’air was a dragon. And Prince Storm, according to the diary, becomes her closest friend. She refers to him as her Best Friend, Forever.”

Aeri’elle smiled for the first time. “She did, didn’t she?”

“Yes.”

“And you’ve got to admit, Queen F’Aerianne would never make it as a circus clown,” said Egg.

“What is a circus clown?”

“Um . . . not important. I just meant she’s still a bit grumpy. In a nice way,” she quickly, if lamely, added.

Aeri’elle stared at her friend . . . her eyes very wide. Then she ‘eeked’. “She really needs to find herself a boyfriend.” Everyone burst out laughing but the dragon stopped them. “If anyone ever tells her I said that, I’ll . . . I’ll . . . cut off my wings and become a sea worm.”

Soo pretended to be hurt. “So the worst punishment you can think of is to become a sea creature? Am I hearing you right?” She tried to sound menacing, but couldn’t pull it off.

“Don’t be silly. The worst punishment is to become human.”

“Jynx . . .,” began Spirit.

“NO, no, no. I’m sorry. Please,” begged the dragon. “I can’t handle spit,” and they laughed.

When they finally stopped, they turned to BreeZee since it was her turn.

She smiled brightly. “I’ve got a great idea from Aeri’elle. Tee’ka, can you make me a dragon or a sea serpent?”

“WHAT?” yelled Egg before their hostess could respond.

“I, for one, would like to know what it feels like to be a dragon or a sea serpent. If for no other reason, it would make me a better sister to Soo, Bl’azzz and Aeri’elle.”

“Wow,” said Sylvia. “That’s a brilliant idea. Wish I had thought of it.”

Egg turned to Tee’ka. “Well, Tee? Can you do that?”

“Of course.”

The girls looked at each other and smiled. This could be fun. So, they went around the room and each girl told their hostess what they wanted to be.”

BreeZee, who could already fly, wanted to be a sea serpent.

Soo wanted legs and arms . . . to be able to walk instead of slither or hold things without using her tongue. She asked to be human.

Aeri’elle surprised everyone with her request. “I would love to be a One-Eyed, One-Horned, Triple-legged Sighing Purple Steeple Bleater.”

“You’re kidding?” asked Egg.

“If I am going to invite one to Aerianna, I would like to know what it’s like to be one.”

“Well, Tee, make me a dragon.”

“Egg, you can already fly,” said Sylvia.

“I like flying.”

“What about a Wind’dancer” asked the Wind’dancer.

“You don’t fly, you sail. You sail slowly. Sorry.”

“I prefer to think of it as ladylike,” and Bree stuck out her tongue. It was a gesture she had recently learned.

“Well, I think Wind’dancers are just the coolest,” said Sylvia. “Make me one, please.”

“Like all F’yre Dragons, I really hate the water. Sorry, sea slug. Besides, if you’re going to be human, I will too. You’ll never be able to stand on your own two feet without my shoulder to lean on.”

“Thanks, gas bag.”

“You’re welcome.”

“That leaves you, Spirit. What will it be?”

The girl’s eyes glowed red. “I would like to be . . . a computer construct like you Tee’ka.”

Everyone else’s eyes went wide in surprise. “Spirit, you are one cool cat,” said Egg.

“Is that good?” That phrase would have been confusing even on Earth (unless you were a beatnik from the 1950’s).

“Oh, yeah.”

“Then thank you.”

“So, Tee . . . what do you suggest?” asked Egg.

“First, I must tell you that such a request is the first that I have ever had. I find it most intriguing.”

“Are you talking about Spirit?”

“I am talking about all of you. To take the time to understand each other in such an intimate manner speaks highly of the Hameggattic Sisters. As for your request, Spirit, I take particular pride and I humbly thank you for validating me as a life form.”

That made Egg angry. “Hey . . . you don’t need our validation. You’re  you . .  . a pretty amazing person”.

“She’s right,” added Sylvia. “On earth, there’s a saying – ‘I think, therefore I am’. Her friend scrunched her face; a sure sign that she didn’t understand. “It means that if you wonder whether or not you exist, that in itself is proof that you do.”

“Say what?”

“Thank you Sylvia. That is a wonderful concept. I will share it with the rest of my brothers and sisters. And thank you Egg for expressing such a heartfelt sentiment.”

“Sure.”

“So, how do we do this?” asked BreeZee. “Should we share one big simulation or should each of us do her own?”

Jynx, who had been listening to the conversation, suddenly rolled over, fell asleep and began to snore. The whole idea of changing forms to a Shameless Mimic was kind of second nature and dull. To watch others do it would have been painfully boring.

“Apparently my dearest four legged companion finds us less than interesting.”

“I gotta tell you that if she always snores that loud she’s not sleeping in my room.”

“Grrrrrr, burp.”

“Shut up.”

“Of course the decision is yours, however I would suggest that each of you design your own simulation. Afterwards, you could share your experience, feelings and emotions as a group.”

Egg agreed. “Sounds like a plan. But how do we come up with the design?”

“There are many ways. The easiest is to simply recall something that you have already experienced . . . but this time you’ll do it as a different life form.”

“I like it . . . I think.”

“If you are ready, may I further suggest that you each go to your own room, decorate it as you will, then we can begin.”

“And you’re going to split into seven Tee’kas?” asked Soo.

“Yes. Are there any other questions?”

“Do we need to choose which particular person we will be?” asked BreeZee.

“We just did,” responded Egg.

“She meant do you, for example, have to say which dragon you want to be,” said Sylvia.

“Oh, yeah.”

“You will choose . . . but it may be your subconscious mind that does,” answered Tee’ka with a coy smile. “If you would please take a room, we can begin.”

*****

An Hour Later

They all returned to the common room and took their seats (or mat or pond). Some were smiling as they recalled the memory of their experience, while others seemed to be lost in thought.

“May I say that I enjoyed that immensely?” said their hostess. “I look forward to reliving it again when I have the time.”

“Why were you so thrilled?” asked Egg.

“I had never considered taking on the form different than the one you see. It opens a whole new world to explore . . . and to learn. I am compelled to say it again – the Hameggattic Sisters are extraordinary individuals. I can certainly understand the high regard that the good people of Aerianna and Zynn-Zaz’zia hold you in.”

The girls smiled at the compliment. “Thanks, Tee. But I think everyone gives us way too much credit.”

“Your well-known modesty only adds to your reputation, Egg.”

“Enough, please. Besides, I’m dying to find out how everyone’s little adventure went. Bree, this was your brainchild. You start.”

“First, I swear I didn’t choose her.”

“Choose who?”

“K’ssss.”

“You became K’ssss?”

“Yes.”

“For shame,” cried Sylvia, which for some reason caused the Wind’dancer to blush.

“What are you talking about?” Egg asked her friend.

“Let her tell you.”

“Come on, someone talk. What happened, Bree?”

“Um . . . I found myself back on Zynn-Zaz’zia swimming in Zazzi’s cavern. And I have to tell you, being a sea serpent was much like being a Wind’dancer. Instead of sailing through the air, I sailed through the water. The most surprising thing was that my large body – sorry K’ssss – didn’t feel big or heavy. The water supported me to the point that I felt weightless.

I tried slithering out of the water and on to land but it was way too difficult. Without the buoyancy of the water, I found it hard to move. Soo, now I understand how much you suffer when you’re with us.”

“Thanks. But you get used to it. It only gets bad when I stay out for weeks at a time. And that’s only because my skin dries out.”

“The other thing that was strange was using my tongue as if it were a hand. That took some getting used to. All in all, I had fun. More importantly, I now have a better understanding of my slap-happy, sarcastic, slithering snake-like sea sister.”

“Good grief girl. Tradition requires only three ‘s’ words; six was a bit showy.”

“Bree, were you alone in the cavern?” asked Syl with a silly smirk on her face.

“Um . . . no.”

“Spill it. Did you kiss Zazzi?”

“SYLVIA. How could you even ask such a thing?”

“Did you.”

The Wind’dancer shrugged, then stuck out her tongue. The other girls howled. “Don’t any of you dare tell K’ssss. I’d die of embarrassment.”

“If I may clarify,” interjected Tee’ka, “the reason you became K’ssss is because your subconscious mind wished it.”

“Really?”

“Oh, please,” said Aeri’elle. “That’s not too hard to figure out. You know exactly two sea serpents . . . K’ssss and Soo. Obviously no one in their right mind would want to become her,” and she pointed at the pond.

“Hey, that was hurtful,” but she was teasing. She splashed the dragon with a huge slap of her tail.

“I deserved that.”

“Yeah, you did.”

“Who’s next?”

“Why don’t you go, Egg?” answered Spirit.

“Okay. Well, hang on to your hats . . .”

“We don’t wear hats,” began Bl’azzz, but she stopped when one materialized on her head. It was the one that J’azzz-min had worn.

“Hey, it’s my hat.”

“Now you may hold on to it as Egg requested,” said Tee’ka in all seriousness.

“Oh my gosh . . . it’s just an expression.”

“Can we get on with it please,” begged Aeri’elle.

“Go on Egg . . . but I’m keeping the hat.”

“I gotta tell you that it’s not as cute as you think.  Anyway, you’ll never guess which dragon I turned into.”

“Storm.”

“Nope.”

“Bl’azzz.”

“Uh-uh. And it wasn’t big bird.”

“I know. I know,” cried Sylvia. “F’Aerianne.”

“Great guess . . . but no. It was Bl’udd.”

“Are you kidding?” asked Soo.

“Nope. It was the one-and-only, great big, not-very-bright, traitor-turned-hero that we all love to hate.”

“You have one sick subconscious,” said Aeri’elle.

“Actually, I asked Tee to turn me into him.”

“Why?”

“Cause he’s the biggest dragon that I ever saw. So if I wanted to experience what it’s like to be one, I thought I might as well be the strongest, largest one I could think of.”

“Kind of makes sense,” said Bl’azzz.

“What was it like? What did you do?” asked Spirit.

“I relived him saving the Nauti village. He’s really powerful. You’d think it would be tough for someone that big to fly, but it wasn’t. He flapped his wings as if it was nothing. It was completely effortless. And he could maneuver as easily as I can in my flying suit.”

“So, what great insights did you learn about us dragons?” asked Aeri’elle.

“I felt totally invincible . . . like nothing or no one in the universe could stop me from doing whatever I wanted.  I was king of the sky and the world had to bend to my will. It was so amazing. How in the heck dragons lost to serpents and humans I’ll never understand.”

Bl’azzz smiled at her friend’s story but Aeri’elle, always the professor of history, knew the answer to Egg’s question. “Egg, your explanation of how you felt physically was wonderful. But, what of your mind? What were you thinking as you did what you did?”

“Well . . .,” and the girl went quiet as she gave the question some real thought. “It’s a little hard to explain. Everything seemed . . . um . . . simple, as in obvious. I had one overriding urge and that was to grab the thingy that was about to explode and to take it as far from the village as fast as I could. And, I really wanted to drop it before it blew me up. As I said, it was simple . . .,” but she trailed off as she tried to understand why it didn’t seem quite right.

“Something troubling you?”

“Um . . . yeah, but I’m not sure what it is.”

“I do. We dragons were beings of action. We saw a problem or a task and we took care of it. But we always reacted . . . never anticipated.”

“Huh?”

“We didn’t see the future and plan for it. We saw the present and reacted to it. That’s why serpents and humans were able to beat us. They could see beyond the now . . . a little like our own Spirit. Sadly, my people couldn’t. It was only after King M’earth began his rule that Dragons began to change. We built our first universities and we learned from the others – from humans and serpents. What you experienced with Bl’udd, who’s more than a thousand years old, is the old version of us dragons.”

“Oh.”

“Egg, it’s pretty amazing that you were able to sense that . . . forgive me you two . . . that shortcoming. It’s not all that obvious,” said Sylvia. ”Maybe, just maybe, you’re more intellectually curious then you pretend to be.”

“Was that supposed to be a compliment?” her friend asked with a smirk.

“More of an observation.”

“Good . .  .'cause it was a pretty pathetic compliment.”

“Okay, who’s next?”

“I want to hear about Spirit’s little adventure,” answered BreeZee.

Everyone turned to the Thought Weaver . . . who did the most unexpected thing.

She flickered.

Chapter 5 – The Otherwise Located

“Oh my gosh!”

“What’s wrong?” asked the Thought Weaver.

“What’s wrong? What’s wrong? You . . . you flickered.”

“Flickered? If that’s an earth expression, I don’t know what it means.”

Instead of answering, Egg turned to Tee’ka. “What’s going on? Why is she still a . . . a . . . whatever it is that you are?”

“Egg, what are you talking about? It’s me . . . Spirit.  I was a computer generated construct but now I’m back to being me.”

“Yeah . . . not so much.”

The exotic alien turned to the others. “What is she going on about?”

The girls all looked from one to another. Sylvia finally repeated, “You flickered.”

“What are you saying . . . I’m still a construct? That’s just crazy.”

BreeZee told her friend “Call your four legged companion. Have her come to you.”

“Why?”

“Trust me.”

“Alright, if you insist, I’ll play along. Jynxie . . . to me.”

The Shamie looked up when her name was called by her mistress. She looked at Spirit (or at least at Spirit’s image) then bent her head to the left then to the right as if she was trying to figure out what it was that had called her. Finally, a couple of her antennae-like things sort of danced around.

Then she growled and burped.

“JYNX?”

“Tee’ka?”

“Egg?”

“What’s going on? Why is she still like that?” and the girl pointed at Spirit.

“Apologies, but I do not understand the question.”

Egg looked at Sylvia who was staring back. She touched her arm and said “goose bumps.”

“And there goes our vacation.”

“Tee, Spirit is still a construct. Why?”

Tee’ka flickered (and unseen by the girls, Spirit did also). “Because she was always a computer generated construct, of course.”

“Now I’m getting goose bumps” Sylvia interjected.

“Houston, we’ve got a problem.”

Bl’azzz turned to Soo and asked, “What the heck does that mean?”

“Why are you asking me?”

“You’re right. What was I thinking?”

“Spirit.”

“Yes, Bree?”

“You seem awfully calm about this.”

“Of course I’m calm. Why shouldn’t I be?”

Bree glanced at Egg who said “Because you used to be a flesh and blood person and now you’re a . . .” she couldn’t remember the word she wanted.

Sylvia offered, “A hologram.”

“Yeah, thank you. You’re a hologram.”

“Sisters, I’m not a hologram. We’ve had this discussion a hundred times. I’m a computer generated projection.” Then she needlessly added, “like Tee’ka.”

“If you were always like this,” asked Aeri’elle, “why doesn’t Jynx recognize you?”

Spirit flickered then asked, “Who is Jynx?”

“Oh, boy.”

*****

Meanwhile, Back on Earth

“Good morning.” It was the third time he said it.

Grammy finally looked up from her book.

“Didn’t mean to startle you.”

“That’s quite alright. I was so completely lost in this story that a siren wouldn’t have gotten my attention.”

“Must be mighty interesting.”

“Oh my, yes.” Grammy smiled and told the stranger “my name is Eloise. And who might you be?”

“Nice to meet you Eloise. I’m your next-door neighbor . . . well, at least for the next few weeks. My name is Ezra. Ezra Hightower. Just came by to say hello.”

“That’s very thoughtful. Would you like to sit? I could get you a cup of coffee or make you some tea?”

“Coffee sounds wonderful. My cabin comes with a Mister Coffee maker. Sadly, all it makes is lukewarm brown-tinted water with a hint of caffeine. Hate to complain but it truly is unfit for human consumption.”

“I’m told dragons prefer their coffee just as you described.”

Ezra’s eyebrows arched up. “Dragons?”

“Don’t you believe in dragons?” asked Grammy with a mischievous smile. She knew very well that she was making the man uncomfortable. But, it was both amusing and a way to test Ezra and see what stuff he was made of. She hadn’t had a man friend in many years. Most times, it didn’t matter. The ladies from all the charities she volunteered at, her daughter and granddaughters more than compensated. But sometimes she thought it would be nice to have a man her own age that she could talk to. It reminded her how much she missed her husband.

“Exactly what kind of dragons are we talking about?” He was beginning to regret being so neighborly. If this lady were a bit of a whack-a-doodle, he would have to find some way to make a quick escape.

“Oh, the usual. Fire breathing ones are my favorite . . . unless they have a gas problem.”

Yikes. Time to beat a hasty retreat.

Ezra looked at his watch and made a big to-do about the time. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize the time. I need to take Max to town. I think he might have gotten a burr in his ear. Perhaps we could have that coffee some other time?”

“I presume Max is your dog.”

“What? Oh. Yes. I didn’t want to bring him over without checking first. Didn’t know if you might not like dogs or if you had pets of your own that might not want Max’s company.”

“Very thoughtful. However, I love dogs and Max is welcome anytime.”

He was a bit befuddled. She now was sounding more . . . more normal. “Um, do you really believe in dragons?”

One thing Grammy tried never to do was to lie. However, you could always hide the truth in a funny disguise. “If I told you that I met two on a planet a trillion miles away, you would think that I was a doddering old woman.” She paused to see his reaction.

He just stared at her.

“One is a professor of history. The other is a F’yre Dragon who’s a vegetarian. It gives her gas and when she burps, it ignites into a ball of flame. It’s both amusing and a little dangerous as you might imagine.”

He continued to stare.

“Ezra, I’m terribly disappointed with you.”

“With me? We just met.”

“Ask me the title of the book I’m reading.”

“What? Oh. Um, what’s the title of the book you’re reading?” He added, “But then I really must rush off.”

“It’s called The Hobbit.”

“The Hobbit . . . by Tolkien?”

“The very one. Did you know there are dragons in the story?”

“Sure. Ohhhhh.”

Grammy pretended she didn’t understand his reaction. “Oh what?”

“That dragon stuff. That was a combination of the story and your imagination.” He said it as if it were fact. “You had me a little worried for a moment.”

She smiled but didn’t acknowledge his theory. “If you would get Max while I get the coffee, I probably could remove the burr. I once worked as an assistant to a veterinarian.”

Ezra flashed a boyish grin and Grammy thought it made him look very handsome and distinguished. He turned around, put two fingers in his mouth and let out a loud whistle. A moment later a very large dog came running up . . . its ears flapping. As he got close, he stopped to survey the scene.

“It’s okay, boy. Come say hello to Eloise.” The dog apparently understood because he came bounding over to Grammy, put his big paws on her lap and gave her a wet kiss.

“Well, hello Max. You are one great big beautiful dog, aren’t you?”

Max barked his agreement and Grammy laughed. “He’s an Irish Wolfhound, isn’t he?”

“That he is. Max, down.”

Max looked at Ezra, then turned back to Grammy and gave her another lick. She scratched his head and back then gave him a big hug. Apparently satisfied, the dog climbed down.

“Let me get the coffee and Max, how about a bowl of water?”

The dog barked.

“He certainly has a lot of personality not to mention being very affectionate and highly intelligent.”

“Takes after me.” Just the corny response you would expect from a man (or a boy).

“Really? I hadn’t noticed,” she teased as she walked into the cabin.

“Hey,” he yelled after her, “I’ll show you my high school yearbook. I was voted smartest, most affectionate and personable senior.”

She yelled back, “How many kids in your class? Three?”

He laughed. “Nine, I’ll have you know.” He sat down and whispered to Max, “She’s nice . . . but don’t be barking every time she compliments you. You have to play it cool. Like me.”

The dog laid down and covered his head with his paws.

“Nice, you flea bitten mutt.” Max chose not to respond to the insult.

A couple of minutes later, Grammy came out with a tray. “Max, here’s your water.”

The dog looked at Ezra who nodded okay. Max barked a thank you.

“You’re quite welcome. Ezra, your coffee. I made it extra strong and scalding hot so be warned. Cream and sugar?”

“No thanks,” and he took the offered mug. “Smells wonderful.” He took a sip. “Now that’s what I’m talking about. That’s a cup of coffee.”

Grammy took her cup and sat down. “I assume Max doesn’t really have a burr in his ear.” She and her new friend turned to look at the dog.

Ezra smiled sheepishly. “Probably not. Sorry about that.”

“I’ll forgive you but only if you prove to be a sparkling conversationalist and a spellbinding storyteller”.

That elicited another boyish grin. “Hope you put on a large pot of coffee.”

“Indeed I did. So, neighbor, what shall we talk about?”

“Anything but dragons”.

“That,” said Grammy, “I can’t promise.”

*****

Still on Earth, but now in California

They were seated in one of the famous seafood restaurants at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.  The waitress had just taken their orders and had withdrawn. A busboy filled their glasses with ice water and placed a basket filled with sourdough bread in the center of the table.

“Well,” said Mr. Graystone, “if you had to go to college thousands of miles away from home, I’m glad it’s in the San Francisco Bay Area. This city is spectacular, the college is world class, and we’re just an hour south of the Napa Valley vineyards and two hours north of the Monterey Peninsula. Yosemite is five hours southeast of here and Lake Tahoe is less than four hours away.  To top it off, Silicon Valley, the center of all things tech, is just down the road. I’m in love with this place.”

“That was a mouthful,” teased Ashley. “What about you, Mom?”

“It’s nice.”

Father and daughter looked at Mrs. Graystone. “Nice?” said her husband. “Nice?”

“They have earthquakes here. This whole city was destroyed by one in 1906. The Bay Bridge fell down in 1989. I don’t like the idea of my daughter living here. Sorry, but I just had to get that on the record.”

Ashley smiled in appreciation of her mother’s concern. “Mom, the city was destroyed by fire caused by the earthquake. Their fire department is better equipped should it happen again. And the Bay Bridge didn’t fall down . . . it was only one section. And in case you didn’t notice, they just rebuilt that whole half of the bridge.”

“And even though they get an occasional shaking, they never get hurricanes or tornadoes or ice storms,” added Mr. Graystone. “It balances out.”

“You don’t really believe that you can win this argument, do you?”

The other two laughed. “Not a chance . . . but we had to give it the old college try.”

“Arggggggg,” groaned Ashley. “Dad, that was lame.”

“Hey, I’m on your side.”

“Oh, right.” The girl paused then said, “I know you guys were going to spend the better part of a week helping me adjust. But, my roommate seems great, as do the other girls in the dorm. I think I should spend the time getting to know them . . . you know, bond a little before classes start. You understand, right?”

“Believe it or not, we were going to suggest the same thing. Those girls will be your support system while you are here. Bonding with them is very important,” said her mother. “So, after dinner we’ll drop you off at your dorm and be on our way.”

“Thanks for understanding.”

“We both went to college. So, if I’m allowed to say it – ‘been there, done that’.”

Ashley smiled at her father. “I’ll give you that one. Will you head straight home?”

“We thought we drive to Las Vegas and see a couple of shows first. Then we’re going to surprise your grandmother and sister and visit them in the mountains.”

“WHAT?” Ashley didn’t mean to scream it but did. She, of course, knew that her sister was off on some distant planet doing whatever Flying Girl did. A surprise visit from her parents was going to be a huge problem.

“Why are you getting upset?” asked her father.

“I’m not upset. I was just surprised. Sorry.”

He shrugged at the vagaries of teenager daughters and continued, “We thought we would spend a little time with Egg and Grammy. They have no phone service at the cabin, so we couldn’t tell them we were coming even if we wanted to.”

“When do you expect to be there?”

“Oh, let’s see. A day to Las Vegas, one day there, then a leisurely four-day drive to the mountain cabin. Call it six days.”

“Wait” said Mrs. Graystone. “The chances of us getting out to California again are pretty slim. So why don’t we stop at Hearst Castle and Universal Studios? Always wanted to see them.”

“Sure. That adds a day. We’ll be at Grammy’s mountain retreat in a week.”

“I can’t wait to see the look on their faces when we pull up,” said Mrs. Graystone.

“Oh yeah” mumbled Ashley. “It’ll be out of this world.”

*****

Back in the Mountains

Though it was only six o’clock, the sun was beginning to set behind the tallest peaks. The shadows it cast had the cabin firmly in their grasp.

Ezra looked at his watch – the first time since this morning when he had pretended a need to leave. “Eloise, I have had a most wonderful time. Even your stories of dragons and sea serpents I found inventive, amusing and believable. I do hope you write that book about these fantasy adventures. I’ll be the first to purchase it.”

“Thank you. I, too, have had the most marvelous time. You, my dear Ezra, are an interesting man.”

“Oh, I’ve had my moments. But, I’ve missed so many others.” The way he said it made Grammy feel like he wanted to talk about it, but wasn’t sure he should.

“If you would like to share that part of your life, I’ll make some dinner.”

His face lit up. “You don’t mind? I’ve monopolized your time for hours and hours.”

“My dear Ezra, I feel like I’ve known you for years. I haven’t felt this comfortable around a . . . a man . . . since my husband passed away. And that was fifteen years ago.”

“What was he like?”

Grammy smiled . . . and her face showed a hint of the very attractive young girl she once was. “In many ways like you – a great storyteller, a good listener and boyishly handsome. However, he wasn’t quite as tall as you are.”

“Prefer shorter men, do you?” he teased.

“Oh, my. No.”

Chapter 6 – Lost in Translation

Fair’Giggle

Six girls just stared at the seventh . . . no one sure what to say or do.

“Would someone please explain what is going on? Why do you all look like you’ve seen a ghost?”

Silence.

“Tee’ka, why are they so shocked?”

“Your sisters are under the impression that you were born of flesh and blood and that this creature (she pointed at the Shamie) is your pet. I am uncertain why.”

BreeZee thought of some questions that might help. “Tee’ka, how big is the computer complex that is used to create you and the others like yourself?”

“It is vast . . . occupying a very large part of this planet’s core.”

“Spirit, where is your computer?”

“In my spaceship, naturally.”

“Isn’t that tiny compared to what Tee’ka described?”

“Of course. First, it only has me to worry about. And second, it doesn’t have to create the complex and numerous simulations that the one on Laff’Alott must create.”

Well, that didn’t work. Spirit’s answers were reasonable.

Sylvia decided to try her hand. “Remind me again, what planet do you come from?”

“Paradox.”

“Oh, right. And your parents and brother are still there. Do you ever talk to them?”

Spirit flickered. “Don’t be silly . . . we talk every day. They are part of the simulation I live in.” She paused then added, “I’m sure I explained all this to you when we first met.”

Time to try something else.

Egg asked her ghostly sister, “Which room is yours?”

That question caused both Tee’ka and Spirit to flicker. “Actually, I don’t have a bedroom. I told Tee’ka I’d prefer to return to my ship when the rest of you sleep.”

Aeri’elle leaned over to Egg and whispered, “She’s lying. Her room was next to mine . . . but now it’s gone. There are only six doors . . . the seventh one, hers, is gone.”

“Yeah, I know.” She turned to Tee’ka and asked, “Before you said that you might know if someone was messing with your program. How?”

“I would run a self-diagnostic to compare the parameters of my current programming to the one I archive periodically. Think of it as a backup. If there is a difference, one that I can’t account for, then it would be reasonable to assume that I have been tampered with.”

“What does periodically mean? How often is that?”

“Usually once a year. Though it does not take long, it does require a substantial amount of power.”

“I want you to do a check right now, please.”

“May I suggest that it can wait . . . “

Egg cut her off. “I’m the customer and I insist you do it right this minute.” It came out rather rudely.

“As you wish. This will take just a few seconds.” She began to flicker at an incredibly fast rate. Sure enough, about fifteen seconds later she stopped. “Unfortunately, you were correct. My programming has been altered.”

“Where’s Spirit?”

“I’m right here, for goodness sake.”

“No you’re not.”

“EGG . . .,”  but she didn’t finish. She slowly faded out of existence. A moment later, the seventh door appeared where it should have, then opened . . . and out stepped another Spirit.

The others stared at her . . . unsure if this was the real one.

“Why are you all staring? It’s my hair, right? It happens every time I take a nap.” She reached behind her head and stroked her locks. “Does anyone have a brush or a comb . . . hey, stop laughing at me. I’m very sensitive about this unruly mop.”

*****

They explained to Spirit what had happened then settled down again in their respective chairs, mats and pond to discuss the situation.

“Tee’ka, you get to go first,” said Egg. “Give us your two cents.”

Before anyone could ask, Sylvia hurriedly chimed in with, “She means tell us what you think is going on.”

“Thank you Sylvia. First, I wish to apologize on the behalf of Fair’Giggle and myself. This has never happened before.”

“How would you know?” interrupted BreeZee.

“Excuse me?”

“If your program is so easily corrupted, this type of thing may have happened a million times and you would never know.”

“As I said, when I compare my current programming to my back-up, any discrepancies are revealed. I can then restore it to its original state.”

“Why can’t your backup be tampered with?” pressed the Wind’dancer.

Tee’ka flickered then said, “It is highly improbable that anyone would go to such lengths, but it is not out of the realm of possibilities. That is the reason I stated that I may or may not be able to detect any manipulation of my programs.”

“So who did this and why?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Obviously . . .,” replied Egg, “Queen Velveeta.”

“Empress Velveeta,” corrected Tee’ka.

“Whatever. She’s determined to see how good the Sisterhood is.” Flying Girl smiled and added, “Can’t blame her . . . we are awesome. But you’re right Bl’azzz, why replace Spirit with a hologram? That doesn’t make any sense.”

“Maybe she was going to use the fake Spirit to cause trouble. You know – try to get us angry at each other. Maybe break the bonds that bind us, so to speak.”

“Sylvia, that’s brilliant” complimented BreeZee.

“Thanks, but it’s just a guess. I may be way off base.”

“I have a question,” said Aeri’elle. “How come the phony Spirit knew Jynx at first and then a minute later didn’t?”

“If I may . . .,” offered Tee’ka. “Whoever did it wasn’t very good at making the programming change. However, one should expect future duplicates to be more sophisticated.”

“So what do we do?” asked Soo. “Go home?”

“Go home? Not going to happen . . . well, not until we’re finished vacationing” insisted Egg. “If the Queen of Hearts thinks she can best the Sisterhood, she’s in for a big surprise.”

“She’s an Empress,” Tee’ka corrected again. “The Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta.”

“Oh my gosh, Tee, I know her name.”

“Should I ask . . . who’s the Queen of Hearts?”

“She’s the one who wanted to behead Alice.”

“Alice?”

“In Wonderland.”

“Is that on Earth?”

“More like under the Earth. You have to fall down a rabbit hole to get there.”

Spirit gave up and turned to Sylvia. “What is she talking about?”

“A famous fantasy story about a wicked Queen.”

“But not about a Wicked Witch. That would be the Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz,” added Egg most unhelpfully.  Sylvia giggled at her goofy friend.

Spirit wanted to say something . . . but was too discombobulated to think of anything.

Aeri’elle smiled at her Earth sister. She was going to miss this kind of nonsense the most. “So what do you want to do, dear leader?”

“Obviously, we have to teach viva Velveeta a royal lesson.”

“Egg, I must insist that you address the Empress by her rightful title.”

“Tee’ka, that’s not going to happen until she learns to behave herself.”

“Egg . . .,” the construct replied in an unusually quiet voice, “this world is under her control, as are all the worlds in the Starlight Alliance.  She is the law. To show her disrespect is a crime and the punishment is not something you would wish to experience. I beg you, for your sake and that of your friends, please refer to the Empress as is required of all that enter her realm.”

Egg smiled. “Thanks for your concern. Um, I’ll do this. From now on we’ll refer to her as ‘the big cheese’ . . . and only we girls will know that it means the Empress. It’ll be our little secret. Okay?”

Tee’ka flicked. “Acceptable. However, what is the significance of the phrase – big cheese?”

“On earth, there is a dairy product with the name that sounds just like the Empress’. It’s a big block of orange cheese. Oh, and ‘big cheese’ can also refer to the person in charge.”

Tee’ka smiled. “Then, it will be our secret.”

“Egg, do you have a plan?”

“Bree, I hardly ever have a plan. Even if I did, it wouldn’t work. That’s like an unbreakable rule.”

“So, what do we do next? Just wait till . . . the big cheese does something else?”

“I have a suggestion,” offered Sylvia. “We need to be absolutely sure that Tee’ka doesn’t get corrupted again.”

“And how do we do that, my Feminion?”

Syl turned to the construct and asked, “Could you check your programming more often . . . like every few minutes?”

“Yes, but the drain on the Laff’Alott power grid would spike. Those that monitor such things would investigate.”

“Couldn’t you tell them why you were doing it?”

“If I tell them that the Empress is behind this, no one would do anything to impede her plans. I would be ordered to desist.”

“Could you lie?” asked Egg.

Tee’ka began to flicker at an alarming rate. “NEVER MIND,” screamed Sylvia and their hostess returned to normal. “Egg, you’re causing a programming conflict. Lying is not what she was created to do but helping us is what she would love to do. Right, Tee’ka?”

“You are my friends . . . the first of flesh and blood. I would do anything for you – anything within my programming.”

“Could you become solid again?”

“Certainly, but why Egg?”

“Please do it.”

Tee’ka complied and Egg walked over and gave her hug. “That’s why.” She turned to walk away but the computer girl grabbed her and returned the hug.

About twenty seconds later, Egg had to tell her new friend, “Tee, hugs normally last only a few seconds. Maybe five, ten tops.”

“Apologies,” but the other girl was smiling. She flickered and returned to her non-corporeal form.

“Tee’ka, could you put a copy of yourself on my ship’s computer?”

“One moment,” and she disappeared. A hug’s length of time later, she reappeared. “Your computer could contain my programming but it does not have the power to run it. If you were hoping I could use it to verify any tampering, I must tell you that it’s not possible. Thank you for considering such a thing.”

Everyone went silent as they considered other solutions.

It was Jynx who came up with an answer.

“Grrrrrr.”

“Yes, Jynxie?”

The Shamie did the oddest thing . . . it changed from blue to green to blue over and over.

“What the heck is she doing?”

“I’m not sure. She’s obviously trying to tell us something.”

Egg rolled her eyes. “Ya think?”

“Your companion is brilliant,” said Tee’ka. The girls forced themselves to look away from the color-switching Shamie. “She is suggesting a solution.”

Egg looked at the other girls to see if any of them understood. Apparently, Jynx was smarter than all of them . . . put together. “I’ll bite . . .”

“Rephrase that, please.”

“Huh? Oh, right, Syl. What’s our four-footed freaky friend suggesting?”

“Grrrrrr. BURP.”

“Egg, she’s very sensitive . . . like me. You’re hurting her feelings.”

“You’re killing me . . .  both of you.” (Alarmed by that statement, Spirit looked to Sylvia who just shook her head as if to say ‘it’s not what you think”). “Sorry, Jynx. I meant ‘what is our cute, cuddly cupie-doll suggesting?”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Shut up.”

Tee’ka explained, “Jynx is suggesting that I install a warning light that will let you know if there has been a change to my programming.”

“How would that work?”

Tee’ka flickered for a few seconds. “It is very complicated and I do not wish to bore you (translation – ‘you’re all too dumb to understand’). Suffice it to say I’ve set up a means to detect a programming modification. However, I will not know I am different, but this warning light will have detected some kind of change  . . . but not what that change is.”

“Where’s this warning light?”

“The tip of my wand will glow red like this . . .”

“. . . however, I may not be aware of its significance. If you bring it to my attention, I may have no idea what you are referring to. Most definitely, I would deny that I have been changed in any way.”

“So how does that help us exactly?” asked Egg.

“First, you will know that I am acting as an reluctant agent for someone else. And second, if you request that I compare myself to my back-up file, I would then recognize that a change has occurred and I can ‘reset’ myself.”

“Well, that’s something.”

“Tee’ka . . .”

“Yes, BreeZee?”

“If we told you that we wish to be alone, what would you do?”

“I would leave.”

“How would we get you back? How do we contact you if we change our minds?”

Soo interrupted with a question. “What are you getting at?”

“What happens if she . . . if Tee’ka . . . goes red but she’s unable to reset herself because whoever is behind this doesn’t give her the power to do so? Or if her backup has been tampered with. Do we really want a corrupted Tee’ka staying with us?”

“Bree . . . you’re getting smarter by the second. I’m beginning to think you’re not the real Wind’dancer but some imposter,” teased Sylvia.

But no one laughed. If Spirit could be replaced, why couldn’t the others?

The girls remained silent each looking with concern at the others for signs that they weren’t who they said they were.

“Alright, stop it,” demanded Egg. “I know what you’re thinking but we don’t know if it’s even possible. Tee, could we get replaced . . . like Spirit did?”

“Yes and no . . .”

Egg interrupted with a “Why is it never easy?”

“If I may explain . . . replicas of each of you can be created. But no power on this planet can give the replicas flesh and blood. When I become . . . solid . . . that is just a reproduction of me. It does not contain anything living other than my thoughts.”

“Well, then all we have to do is stick a pin in each of us to see if we bleed.”

“Egg, that’s not going to happen,” said Bl’azzz. “If I don’t like teacups, how do you think I’d react to someone stabbing me?”

“There is an easier way,” said Tee’ka. “A replica is a machine of sorts. It doesn’t breathe. If you hold a mirror to your nose or mouth, it will cloud up with your breath.”

“Now that I could handle,” said the fraidy-cat dragon.

“I’m telling you right now, I’m not going to be the one to hold anything near your mouth, you fire-breathing freak-a-zoid,” teased Soo. (well, we can assume she was teasing).

“If I might answer BreeZee’s other question . . . to call me once I’m gone, one needs just speak my name. I won’t hear it, but the computer complex will recognize the name ‘Tee’ka’ and summon me.”

“That’s great. Thank you.”

“So what else?” asked Aeri’elle.

“So now we go on a simulation and wait for the big cheese to show her hand,” said Egg. “She’s obviously very impatient. Between my suit being deactivated and Spirit being replaced all within the span of a few hours, I just know she’ll come after us as soon as she can.”

“And that’s a good thing?” asked Spirit.

“Absolutely. The sooner we do this, the faster we can get back to our vacation.”

“Maybe we should lose,” suggested Aeri’elle. “This way she’ll leave us alone.”

“We’re the Hameggattic Sisterhood. We don’t lose for anyone.”

“But what happens if . . . I mean when we win? What will the cheese do?”

Egg smiled. “Probably try again when we least expect it.”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Hey, no one asked for your opinion.”

Chapter 7 – The Meaning of Seven

“Egg, then I don’t understand. What are you hoping to achieve?” asked BreeZee.

“Look, she can only try something while we’re on this planet or another one in her Starlight Alliance. Once we leave here and go home, she can’t touch us. More importantly, she would have no reason to even try. So, let’s have some fun with it. Think of it as part of our training.  Who knows when the next big mission will come along . . . if ever.”

“That raises another question” said Soo.

“Like what?”

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while. Are we . . . the Hameggattic Sisterhood . . . a social club or a force for good, so to speak? Do we get together just to have reunions and go on vacations or do we let the universe know that they can call on our services if there’s a problem that no one else can solve?”

“Wow, you semi-sentient sea slug, that was like the deepest thought I’ve ever heard you express,” said her friend.

“Didn’t think I had it in me, did you,” replied Soo.

“Absolutely not.”

“Hey.”

“May I give my two cents?” asked Tee’ka using her newly learned earth expression.

“Go for it, Tee.”

“Sadly, I am not a Hameggattic Sister nor could I ever be. However, if I was, I would answer Soo thusly . . . we are unique in this galaxy, with superior individual talents made even more formidable when we act as seven. We should let all worlds know that if we are called upon to serve in the interest of good, then we will answer the call.”

“Well put, friend,” replied Spirit.

“I agree,” said Syl, “That was very well expressed. But, as wonderful as that sounds, I don’t think we can do that. Egg and I are in school and we really need to finish our education. And, we both have parents that have no idea what we do. If they did, I doubt seriously that they would approve. Besides, I’m not ready to dedicate my life to fighting bad guys all over the universe.  That’s not who I am . . . who I want to be.”

“Have you decided what you want to do with your life? What profession you might want to pursue?” asked Professor Aeri’elle.

“After high school, I will definitely go to college to study math or science.” She smiled then added, “And after that I intend to apply to a soon-to-be-built galaxy class university on Aerianna.”

“That would be awesome. I’m going to hold you to that,” said the dragon.

“What about your parents?” asked BreeZee.

“After I graduate, I will take them on a little trip to meet a certain Queen.”

“That should prove interesting.”

“How about the rest of you?” asked Egg. “Are we heroes for hire or a sorority?”

“I’m always willing to help out if the Queen asks. But like Syl, I think there should be more to life than just fighting evil,” said the newly deep-thinking Soo.

“What she means is that she wants her boyfriend to propose to her. He can’t if she’s off gallivanting around the galaxy. But, I agree. If the Queen asks for my help . . . or any one of you . . . then I’m in,” said the F’yre Dragon.

“Bl’azzz, I’m with you,” added BreeZee. “I don’t see myself as a full time crime fighter. But if the Queen or any of you need my help, I’ll be there for you. You guys have already changed my life in ways I could never imagine.”

Everyone turned to Spirit. “I like the way Bree phrased it. This has been an awesome experience and I fervently hope there will be others. And, if someone that we cared for came to us for help, then I’m in.”

“Egg-o, what about you?”

She didn’t answer right away as she gathered her thoughts. “From the moment I first put on the flying suit, Eloise Grace Graystone became Flying Girl. That’s who I am . . . and that’s all I want to be. Before Syl can say it, I know I’m not yet fourteen and things can change. I can change.  But for now, I’m Flying Girl. I can’t think of anything more exciting than matching wits with the bad guys. Or more rewarding than helping people who are in trouble.

When we’re not on a mission, then being with you guys and goofing off like this is wonderful. There’s no one I rather spend my time with. But, as far as I’m concerned, Tee said it best.”

“Would you do it by yourself?” asked Bree.

Again, Egg took her time to answer. “No. I have to believe that there will always be others that would want to help me help people in need.”

“What are you implying? That you’ll recruit other girls and when you do they’ll replace each of us?” Sylvia was near to tears.

Seven faces (including Tee’ka but not Jynx who was fast asleep) turned to stare at Egg. They all gasped when she answered “yes.”

“Egg, you don’t mean that?” asked Aeri’elle. In as much as she retired from the active Sisterhood, it was kind of surprising that she asked the question.

“Let me explain. Syl when you go off to college, will you have time to go on missions?”

“Um, probably not. Maybe. Probably not.”

“Soo, if you boyfriend asks you to marry him, will you say yes?”

“Yes.”

“Will you raise a family?”

“Hopefully.”

“Would you leave your husband or children and risk your life on another mission?”

The serpent didn’t answer . . . she didn’t have to.

“Aeri’elle is retiring . . . her choice. So, the Sisterhood needs a seventh active member. It doesn’t absolutely positively have to be someone who’s going to commit to being a hero, but if we have the chance to find someone that thinks like me, I’m going to ask you to vote her in.”

“We would still get a vote?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Well, of course, silly. You’re a Hameggattic Sister.” That made everyone relax.

“Yeah, I am. Thanks Egg.”

“Egg”.

“Yeah, Tee?”

“If it were possible, I would join your cause. You could always count on me to be by your side.”

“That would be awesome. Aeri’elle, I expect you to work on finding a way to free Tee from the Laff’Alott computer.”

“I accept the challenge. Once the school is built, I will assign the task to the science department to work on.”

“Thank you Aeri’elle. That is most generous.”

“It will be my pleasure, Tee’ka. I can’t promise that we’ll succeed, but if we do you’ll make a great sister.”

The construct flickered . . . but only from a surge in emotions.

“If that’s all cleared up, I think we should get on with our next simulation.”

“Um . . . now may not be the best time to ask . . . “

“Now is always the best time,” said Bree.

“You all have said that if the Queen or one of us needs help, you would do what you could. Does that apply to me? If I asked for help, would you guys do it?”

“What are you talking about?” asked Egg.

“I told you why I left my world. I can’t go home to my family because the bad guys are in charge. Would the Sisterhood help me remedy that situation?”

“That’s why you joined us, isn’t it?” asked Sylvia. “The Myst Tree said we would help you . . . but only if you were a sister.”

“Nice deduction, Syl”.

“Thanks, Bree.”

“Yes. I’m sorry for not saying anything sooner. I . . . I didn’t know what to expect of you guys. I never really believed that seven girls could make any difference. Gosh, was I ever wrong. I’ll never doubt the power of Seven again.”

“I meant what I said . . . if one of my sisters needs my help, I’m in.”

“And me”.

“Thank you, Bl’azzz, Soo.”

“Of course we’ll help you,” said Egg with the authority as the leader of the Sisterhood. “After our vacation we’ll go to Paradox. But, Spirit, Syl and I need to figure a way to leave home for whatever amount of time it’s going to take. It might not be until next summer.”

“You never really explained about the bad guys,” observed Bl’azzz. “What can you tell us?”

Egg interrupted. “Give us the one minute quickie version, Spirit. We’ll talk about it in lots more detail when we get closer to the mission.”

“Sure. As you know, I’m a Thought Weaver. But, on my world, there are other . . . mutants . . . with different powers.”

“Hang on. Mutants?”

“Egg, it sounds awful, but that’s what we are. Long ago, there was a war with some truly terrifying weapons. They caused massive damage during . . . and after . . . the conflict. Because of their nature, these weapons cause some children to develop in ways that are not normal to my kind. I can heal and see the threads of the future. My telepathy is actually another trait that the rest of my people don’t normally have. Others have different skills . . . if I can use that word.”

“Such as what?” asked Soo.

“Such as telekinesis – the ability to move objects with a thought. Some can teleport from one location to another just by thinking it.”

“Is Jynx a product of this war?” asked Aeri’elle.

“Yes. Some people can also shift shapes like her.”

“Wow and wow,” said Bree.

“So what does this have to do with the bad guys? Have they taken these other people hostage?” asked Soo.

“By law . . . their law . . . all mutants are taken captive. They can do this because these evil ones have their own powers.”

“Okay, enough. It’s obviously a bad situation and we can discuss the details later,” insisted Egg.

“I wouldn’t have asked because of the danger involved. But after Zynn-Zaz’zia, I think we have a good chance to succeed.”

“That’s encouraging,” whispered Soo to Bl’azzz.

“We better find that seventh sister,” responded her friend. “I don’t think six is going to be enough.”

“Hey, you two, I heard that.”

“Maybe K’ssss will do it. We probably could use a genius to fight a bunch of mutants,” said Soo. “No offense, Spirit.”

“None taken.”

“Well, we’re not asking K’ssss. That wouldn’t be fair. And, you either Big Bird so don’t even try to volunteer. Besides, we’re going to find a seventh . . . I can feel it.”

“Truly?”

“Yup. So, we can talk about this stuff later . . . like after our vacation. Meantime, let’s see how good we really are. Bring on the cheese.”

*****

“What did you have in mind, Egg?” asked Tee’ka.

“How about one of those real dreams?”

“That’s surreal dreams”

“Right. What does that mean exactly?”

“Surreal means bizarre, fantastic or strange.”

“So how would that work?”

“The easiest way is for me to search your subconscious mind to determine what stories most resonate with you. Then the computer complex will take two or more of them and jumble the story lines and characters. Be warned, the results can be nightmarish.”

“Sounds like a hoot.”

“Hoot?”

“Fun.”

“I see. Egg . . . they can be quite unsettling.”

“Tee’ka, can you tell us which stories you will use?”

“No, Sylvia. The computer complex does not reveal its final choices to me.”

“Enough jibber jabber. Who’s with me?”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Jynxie, are you sure?”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Well, if my dearest companion is willing, so am I.”

“Let’s just get on with it,” growled Aeri’elle. “You know darn well we’re with you.”

“Okay then. Tee . . . let’s do this thing.”

“As you wish. However, may I make a suggestion as a friend?”

“Of course.”

“While you are in a simulation, your real bodies are . . . unprotected. In the entire history of this world, nothing has ever happened to guests while they were in this state. However, if someone wishes to do you harm, it might be wise if one of you stayed behind to watch over the others.”

“Jynxie, would you do that for us?”

The Shamie thought about that for a few seconds then responded with her usual “Grrrrrr.”

“Thank you, dear one.”

Jynx ambled over to Spirit and gave her a lick. Then she began to morph into a . . . thing of some sort.”

“What the heck is that?”

“They were on the same planet as the tongue bugs. In fact, they ate the bugs.”

“Well, that should scare away the bad guys. Nice going, Jynx.”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Egg, I agree. Jynx should be able to keep you all safe. So, if you are ready . . .,” and their holographic hostess waved her wand and the room dissolved into darkness.

Deep in the bowels of the planet, the computer searched Egg’s mind and found snippets of stories that had impressed, captivated or fascinated her. One was the Emerald City of Oz; another was Alice and the Queen of Hearts. There was an incident involving a circus and a TV special about Halloween. Oh, and a little of the Quest and Zynn-Zaz’zia memories seeped into the mix.

The great machine took the information and blended it together in ways only it understood. The result, as Tee’ka had warned, was nightmarish and had little in common with the original stories.

*****

It was very dark and foggy except for the hazy moonlight, which cast some strange and unnatural shadows. They were standing in a field . . . no, not a field. It was a graveyard. The tombstones were old, very old. Some were so worn by the weather that you could no longer read the inscriptions. Others were leaning at odd angles . . . fighting a losing battle not to fall back into the earth.

Egg and Sylvia were instantly terrified . . . being amongst the dearly departed, at the dead of night, generated a feeling of dread that was instinctive. The other girls, who did not have the earth-based cultural bias to those that have passed, were merely curious.

“What is this place?” asked Aeri’elle.

“It’s a cemetery.”

“I know it’s a cemetery. But what is its significance?”

“Why are you asking me?”

“Egg, the computer used your memories to create this simulation.”

“I’ve never even been to a cemetery.”

“Then it must be something you read,” suggested Spirit.

“I don’t remember ever having read about a cemetery.”

“Purr-haps I can be of some help?”

The girls all jumped at the unexpected voice. They looked at each other; all seven pairs of eyes were wide. “Who said that?” asked Sylvia in a whisper.

“Why, it was I” replied the voice.

“I who?”

“I, me.”

“Where are you?”

“Where I always am, right where I’m at.”

“How come we can’t see you?”

“Seeing is believing . . . and you don’t believe. Ergo, you can’t see.”

“What?”

“One can only see a figment of one’s imagination by using the mind’s eye.”

“What?”

“Dear girl, I’m told you are the bright one. Have I been ill-informed?”

“Egg . . .”

“Yeah, Bree?”

“Let’s just keep going. If that thing is supposed to be part of this simulation, it will have to reveal itself at some point.”

“Good thinking.”

“Egg?”

“Yeah, Soo?”

“Where is it we’re going? And what do we do when we get there?”

“No idea.”

“Purr-haps I can be of some help?”

“Not again,” groaned Egg.

“Silly, it cannot be ‘again’ if it did not actually happen the first time.”

“OH MY GOSH. You’re as obnoxious as J’azzz-min.”

“I’m insulted. I may be a cat with a hat, but I’m so much more attractive than that flea bitten, insufferable and witless feline.”

And right in front of them appeared two large cats’ eyes followed by an exaggeratedly wide grinning mouth with way too many teeth. “Hello” the face said . . . and then the rest of her appeared.

The creature was a cross between a crazed Cheshire cat and J’azzz-min . . . and the result was a little too freaky for comfort.

“Name’s Dorothy . . . welcome to Oz-Landia,” and she tipped her hat.

Chapter 8 – Definitely Not in Kansas

“Oh my gosh.”

“Gosh? What’s a gosh?”

“What?”

“You said Oh, my gosh. I don’t have a gosh so I was wondering what your gosh is.”

Soo shook her head. “Good grief. She really is just like J’azzz-min. Same snarky personality and definitely the same body. But it kills me to say it, our J’azzz was way cuter.”

“Ouch, that was hurtful,” meowed Dorothy as her exaggerated smile turned to an equally exaggerated snarl.

“Sorry.”

“I don’t like you,” said the creature (very much reminiscent of the other cat when they first met her in K’actus Kiln).

“You’re not here to guide us, are you?” interrupted Sylvia before the conversation could meander too far into the annoying.

“Guide you where?”

“Wherever it is we’re supposed to go.”

“How would I know where you’re supposed to go?”

Now it was Egg’s turn to interrupt. “So why are you here?”

“I’m here in my official capacity as Dream Whisperer.”

“Which is what?”

“What witch?”

“What?”

“That’s what I’d like to know.”

“What is?”

“What witch?”

“STOP,” yelled Aeri’elle. “This isn’t getting us anywhere.”

“If you would tell me where you want to get to, maybe I can help,” offered the cat creature.

“That’s the point . . . we don't know where we want to get to. We don’t know where we’re supposed to go,” answered Egg trying to keep her voice calm.

“Then it doesn't much matter which way you go, now does it?”

Egg opened her mouth to say something rude but stopped. Dorothy was right. Maybe these surreal dreams had no purpose other than to walk about and meet strange beings.

“Dorothy.”

“Yes?”

Restating Egg’s original question, the Thought Weaver said, “My name is Spirit. Can you tell us what a Dream Whisperer does?”

“Of course I can.” They waited but the creature said nothing.

“Would you?”

“Sure. I’m here to tell you about your challenge.”

“What challenge?” asked Egg who began to get goose bumps.

Dorothy pulled off her hat, reached inside and took out a piece of paper. “Hear ye, Hear ye . . . the contest between the legendary Hameggattic Sisterhood and . . . and . . . hmmm.”

“Hmmm what?”

“It’s blank. The name of your challenger should be right here,” and she pointed to a blank space on the paper. “But it’s not. That’s highly irregular.”

Egg turned to her sisters. “Obviously it’s the big cheese. She’s not too clever, is she?”

“If I may continue?”

“Yes, you may.”

“Most of the rest is meaningless legal gobbledygook. The important thing is the Sisterhood has five hours to find the key. Furthermore, at the end of each hour, one or more of you will be trans-configurated and become part of the problem and not the solution. Any questions?”

The girls looked from one to another. All they saw were blank expressions in each other’s faces. Egg shook her head and turned back to Dorothy. “We have absolutely no idea what you just said.”

“Shall I read it again?” asked the Whisperer helpfully.

“NO. What you can do is try to explain it to us. First, what is the key we’re looking for?”

“No idea.”

“Where do we look to find it?”

“No idea.”

“What does trans whatever that word mean? How do sisters go from solution to the problem?”

“Here I can help. Trans-configurated means that they will change into other characters. Once they do, whoever is left can’t call on them to help . . . because they’ll be working for the other team.”

Egg’s goose bumps got worse. “I don’t like it. This is just crazy and now I’ve got goose bumps on my goose bumps. I’m going to call Tee.” She waited to see if anyone would argue. No one did. “TEE’KA.”

Nothing.

“TEE’KA”.

Nothing.

“TEE, help please.”

Their hostess materialized in front of them. “Yes, Egg?”

“We want out of this simulation. You were right, it’s way too weird.”

Tee’ka flickered. “As you requested, the safety protocols have been disengaged. Please enjoy your adventure. I’m sure it will be memorable.” With that, she blinked out.

“Tee . . . hey, Tee. Come back.” But the girl didn’t. Egg turned to her friends and asked, “What just happened?”

“Egg, her wand . . . the tip was red,” said BreeZee.

“NO.”

“Yeah, it was,” confirmed Soo.

Flying Girl looked at her sisters and spoke a heartfelt “Uh-oh.”

Before they could discuss this unpleasant turn of events, the freakish looking Dorothy said, “Well, if there’s nothing else, have an excitingly spirited competition.” With that, she disappeared. A moment later, her head materialized and she added, “Just a personal observation . . . the Queen of Hearts is nuttier than a pecan pie, meaner than a junk yard dog and scarier than the Wicked Witch. If you have the chance to meet her . . . DON’T.”

*****

“Are we in trouble?”

“Pretty much.”

“That wasn’t a question. It was an observation” clarified Bl’azzz.

“So what now?” Soo asked Egg.

“Anybody have a watch so we can tell when the next hour is up?”

No one did.

“Anyone have any idea what the key we’re looking for might be?”

No one did.

“Anybody want to guess which way we should go?”

No one did.

“Anybody know what Tee meant when she said the safety protocols are off?”

This time Syl did. “I think it means that when we get hurt in this simulation, it’s for keeps.”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning if we break a leg here, our leg will be broken back in the real world.”

“You’re not suggesting,” asked Aeri’elle, “that if we die in the simulation, we really die?”

Six mouths dropped open at that question.

Egg recovered from her shock to ask, “Syl, explain it again to me? About the safety protocols.”

“This is an amusement world. No one is supposed to get hurt, except maybe a pretend hurt in a simulation. I think Tee’ka was trying to tell us that the programming that protects our real selves from anything that happens in here isn’t working. Somebody turned it off. So, if I cut my finger right now . . . my real finger back in the room would start to bleed.”

“That can’t be right.”

“Why not?”

“How can a pretend hurt in here become a real one out there?”

“Egg, this is all extraordinarily advanced technology. We’re not smart enough to answer that question,” admitted BreeZee.

“Well, then this certainly isn’t a game anymore. The big cheese has turned it into a real life and death battle. Worse, she can’t lose. Even if we win, there’s no way to prove that she’s behind this. Even worster . . . don’t you dare say that’s not a word . . .  she sets the rules. And worstest of all, we don’t know what the rules are. We are totally and royally in a world of hurt. And it’s not even a real world, just a figment of my stupid brain.”

“We have one thing going for us,” said Spirit. They looked at the girl with a glimmer of hope. “Since I’m a simulation of the real me, I should be able to use my mutant powers.”

“Oh my gosh. You can look into the future and maybe give us some idea what we’re up against. Spirit, you just lifted mine.”

“Lifted your what?”

“My spirits.”

“What?”

“Forget it. Times a wasting. Do your magic.”

“This will take ten maybe fifteen minutes. Your . . . um . . . silence would be appreciated.”

“Mums the word.”

“Wait a second,” interrupted BreeZee. “If the cheese finds out that you’re able to help us by looking into the future, I’d have to believe you’re going to be the first of us to be trans-configurated. So, we’re not going to get too many more opportunities like this.”

That was greeted with dead silence.

“Just saying.”

*****

In a very exotic spaceship orbiting unseen and undetected high above Laff’Alott, the lone occupant stared intently at her instrumentation. Then she giggled. A moment later, the giggle turned into a deep-throated laugh. And over the next few hours, she fully expected to laugh a lot.

*****

As Spirit began to weave her magic, Egg signaled for the other girls to follow her some distance away so they could talk without disturbing the Thought Weaver. “Listen, we don’t have a lot of time so let’s not waste any of it. While Spirit does her thing, I want Bree to sail above the trees and get a feel for what’s around us. Take Syl with you. Aeri’elle and Bl’azzz, you guys do the same thing. Maybe you can see something that might help us choose a direction.”

“Great idea,” answered her Feminion.

“What about me?” asked the sea serpent.

“You’re with me . . . we need to guard Spirit while she’s in her trance. She’s too important to us to let the cheese do something bad to her.”

“How long do we have?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Till she comes out of her trance. No more than ten or fifteen minutes. And be sure to go in different directions. If you see anything . . . don’t get close to it. We don’t know who the bad guys are. Just look around and get back here in one piece. Any questions? Okay, go.”

It took Spirit most of the fifteen precious minutes to come out of her dream-like state. “Oh, boy” were her first words as she opened her eyes.

“That’s not encouraging.”

“Wasn’t meant to be.” The girl looked around. “Where are the others?”

“They’re up there . . .” and Egg pointed skyward, “. . . scouting the area.”

“Good thinking.”

“Well, spill it. What did you see?”

Ignoring the incomprehensible phrase ‘spill it’, the other girl replied, “If the others won’t be long, I think I should wait till they return.”

“Speaking of which,” said Soo, “here they come.”

Bree and Syl landed first, followed by Bl’azzz. Everyone scanned the night sky looking for the other dragon. “Why don’t you call her?” suggested Sylvia.

“How?”

“We appear to have whatever we were wearing in real life. That includes our communications crystals.”

“Hey, you’re right.”

“Don’t sound so shocked,” teased her Feminion.

“Not shocked, just a little surprised . . . in the nice way.”

“Amazing.”

“What is, Bree?”

“We’re in the middle of what might very well be a life and death struggle, yet you two can still find time to kid each other. I stand in awe.”

“Would someone please call big bird?” hissed Soo.

“Oh yeah. Big bird, can you hear me?” asked Egg as she pressed her communications crystal.

No response.

“Big Bird? Aeri’elle?”

No response.

“Oh, drat . . . I’m getting goose bumps.”

“Try it again,” insisted Bl’azzz.

“Aeri’elle, it’s Egg. Where are you?”

“Should I go find her?” offered Bl’azzz.

“No. If something happened to her, it’ll probably happen to you.”

“We can’t just leave her.”

“Of course not.  We’ll head in the direction she took. Which way was that?”

Bl’azzz pointed.

“We need to get a move on. Spirit, now would be a good time to tell us what you saw.”

“I tried to follow the strands of the future for each of us. Only Egg had one that led out of this darkness.”

“What does that mean – that I’m going to lose all of you in this . . . this . . . dream world?”

“Remember, I see probable futures not certainty. And the answer is yes, only you have a high probable future that leads out of the darkness.”

“But . . .”

“Egg, just let her finish,” insisted Sylvia.

“Sorry. Go ahead.”

“When you get out of here, you will meet two girls. But they’re not what they seem.”

“And that means what?”

“They’re alive but not the way we are.”

“Okay. Now you’re just creeping me out.”

“Spirit, what did you see about the contest and the key?” asked BreeZee.

“We need to find the Metropolis of the Crystalline Edifice . . . which shouldn’t surprise anyone when I say it looks a lot like the Crystal Mountain. After all, this all comes from Egg’s memories.”

“I think you mean Emerald City . . . that was where Dorothy went in the Wizard of Oz.”

“What’s that?” asked Bl’azzz.

“The children’s story I mentioned before. Very famous.”

“Does it have a happy ending?”

Egg looked at Syl. “Yeah.”

Soo asked Spirit, “We’re not going to go through seven lands again, are we?”

“No. There were no special lands as you put it. There will be any number of weird . . . um . . . characters that will try to stop us or if that fails to confuse us.”

“Confuse us?”

“With riddles or make us think we’re doing things wrong when we’re not.”

“So we just ignore them?”

“I don’t think it’s that easy. They’re very convincing. Some of what they say will be true, some false. No easy way for us to know which is which.”

“So what’s the key that we’re looking for?”

“It’s not a key like for a lock. It’s a key like for a puzzle or mystery or a map.”

“That’s helpful . . . somewhat. Anything else?”

“I kept hearing a voice. It was a girl’s voice and she was laughing.”

“That’s what you said when we were on Zynn-Zaz’zia. A girl who laughed a lot.”

“Definitely the same one.”

“Curiouser and Curiouser.”

*****

“Do we fly or walk?” asked BreeZee.

“Flying got Aeri’elle into trouble so I’m not inclined to do that again.”

“You didn’t happen to see any rivers going our way,” asked Soo hopefully.

“We didn’t,” answered Syl.

“Sorry, sea slug. None,” added her friend.

“Any rivers on Paradox?” the serpent asked Spirit, thinking about their next adventure.

“Many. Your aquatic talents should prove most useful.”

“Great. Can’t wait.”

“Okay, let’s get going. Stay close. If you get separated, use the communications crystals. Bl’azzz, your hot breath goes first. I’m next. Then Spirit, Syl, Bree and Soo. Questions?” She didn’t wait for an answer. “Let’s move.”

*****

Unfortunately, the direction that Aeri’elle had flown led them through the heart of the graveyard. The good news was that the fog was thinning out and they could see more clearly.

The bad news was the fog was thinning out and they could see more clearly. Shadows in a graveyard were one thing; seeing graves and tombstones in all their eerie clarity was another.

They walked quickly, determined to get away from the dead as fast as possible. As they approached, some sort of abandon building or chapel, Bl’azzz came to a sudden stop. “Egg . . .,” she whispered, “look at that,” and she pointed to one particular gravestone a few feet away . . .

“What about it?”

“It looks a lot newer than the rest, for one thing. And isn’t than a broken egg painted on it?”

Everyone gathered round to take a closer look.

“At least there’s no inscription,” commented BreeZee. “Like ‘Here Lies Egg, Died of a Broken Shell’ . . . or something.”

Egg rolled her eyes.

“Actually, it’s a good sign” said Sylvia. “It means that we’re headed in the right direction.”

“You-know-who obviously wanted us to see it. Good thinking, Syl.”

“Let’s keep going,” urged Soo.

“Right. Okay . . . umm . . . let’s go up the steps.”

“I knew you were going to say that,” moaned the serpent who despised steps.

“Sorry, but there’s no way around and no way I’m going in there,” and she pointed at the dark and foreboding building.

Chapter 9 – The Clown & the Lion

They got to the top and what they saw was a bit freaky . . .

“Oh my gosh.”

It was more of the graveyard, but running through it was a blood-red brick path. In the moonlight (the fog seemed to be gone), it glowed ominously.

They stopped and stared.

“That’s not at all inviting,” observed Bree.

“Got that right,” answered someone.

“Egg, look at that gravestone” and Spirit pointed to one on their left.

They walked slowly up to it and stopped.

“I don’t recognize the writing,” said Bl’azzz.

“It’s in Earth English . . . don’t forget this is all from the disturbingly creepy and delightfully zany imagination of our dearest leader,” explained Sylvia.

“Would one of you please read it for the rest of us?” requested Bree impatiently.

“Sorry. It says . . .

There was a young lady who laughed and who flew

She had six sisters who followed her true

She gave them adventures, and fame they did earn

But humility and modesty is a lesson they must learn.

“Well, that can’t be about us,” said Soo with a goofy grin. “We’re unbelievably and unabashedly unpretentious.”

“Nice,” complimented her friend.

“It’s a gift.”

“Hang on there’s more but it’s hard to read.” She reached down and wiped away some dirt covering the wording. “It says ‘The best magic is a good laugh but not all laughs are magic.”

“What the heck does that mean?” asked her friend.

No one could even venture a guess.

“What’s the significance of the unpleasant face?” inquired Spirit.

“That’s a clown,” explained Egg.

“Which is what? You mentioned them before.”

“Um . . . a clown is . . . um . . . tell them, Syl.” Funny how we use words, know inside our heads what they mean, but can’t really explain it to someone else.

“A clown is a comedian, usually found in a circus. They wear what they consider funny costumes and paint their faces with exaggerated makeup. They’re supposed to make little kids laugh.”

Soo shook her head in disgust. “Once again I ask, are all you earthlings crazy? Look at that mug. It doesn’t make me want to laugh. It makes me want to slither away, find a very deep ocean and dive to the bottom.”

“Syl, you explained what it’s supposed to be, but not its significance. The inscription is obviously a message for us . . . actually more of a warning. So why the clown?”

“Spirit, I think only Egg can answer that.” The five girls turned to their leader. “Well?”

“Aclownmademecry,” mumbled Flying Girl as she stared at her feet.

“What?”

“I said a clown made me cry.”

“And?”

“And I was so scared I threw up.”

“And?”

“And when he picked me up, I wet myself.”

The other girls tried not to giggle . . . but not very hard.

“How old were you when this horrific incident happened?” asked her best friend with a big clown-like grin.

“The answer to that is strictly on a need to know basis. And, you don’t.”

“So what do we do . . . just continue down this red brick road?” asked Bree.

“Supposed to be yellow.”

“Excuse me?”

“It should be a yellow brick road.”

“Why?”

Egg explained, “It’s from that story I told you about - the Wizard of Oz . . . they go down the yellow brick road and it leads them to Emerald City.”

“Who are they?”

“Dorothy, the scarecrow, the lion and the tin man.”

“Don’t forget Toto,” reminded her friend.

“Oh yeah . . . and Toto, too.”

“So we’re reliving an earth story. And that cat with the hat . . . she’s part of it?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Dorothy is the main character . . . but she’s a young girl not a cat.”

“Then I don’t get it. Why a J’azzz like creature with a weird toothy smile?”

Sylvia suggested, “The toothy smile – that was actually a strangely disturbing variation of the Cheshire Cat. Before you ask, that’s a character from another earth story called Alice in Wonderland. That Cat would keep appearing and give Alice advice or information. Kind of like our dearest J’azzz-min.”

“What sort of advice?” asked Bree.

Very surprisingly, Egg quoted from the book she hadn’t read in more than five years. “Lots. Once, Alice asks ‘Have I gone mad’ because the place she’s in is as weird as this dream. The cat says, ‘I'm afraid so. You're entirely bonkers. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are.”

“Um . . . Egg.”

“Yeah.”

“That was very good.”

“Thanks, Syl.”

“But you got it backwards.”

“What do you mean?”

“The cat asks Alice if he’s mad. It’s Alice who says yes.”

“Are you sure?”

“Pretty much.”

“GOOD GRIEF,” bellowed the serpent. “WHO CARES?"

In unison, the two girls said “Sorry.”

They fell silent as they considered their predicament. It was Bree who finally suggested, “Since we seem to be reliving at least two of your childhood stories, can you give the rest of us a quick summary of what happens. It might help us respond to the strange variations in this dream.”

“Good idea. Syl . . . tell them.”

“Okay. This is the really simple version. In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy finds herself in a place called . . . well, Oz. She kind of inherits a pair of ruby slippers from a witch she accidently kills . . . don’t ask. The witch’s sister wants them and will try anything to get them . . . that includes flying monkeys. Again, don’t ask. Meanwhile, Dorothy has to get to Emerald City to find the Wizard because he’s the only one that can get her home again. She meets a scarecrow – that’s just clothes stuffed with hay in the shape of person. He wants to go meet the Wizard to get some brains. Then they meet a tin man – think mechanical robot – who wants a heart. So he joins them. And then they meet a cowardly lion – lions are supposed to be ferocious – who wants courage. So the four of them travel down the yellow brick road, fighting off the Wicked Witch and finally reaching the city.”

“Then?” asked Soo.

“Then the Wizard turns out to be no wizard at all. But, he’s able to help everyone but Dorothy.”

“What happens to her?”

“She wakes up in her own bed . . .  because, get ready for it . . .  it’s only a dream.”

There was a collective ‘Ahhh’ from the other girls.

“What about the other story . . . Alice in Underland?”

“Wonderland. Basically, she goes back to Wonderland – a place she found by accident when she fell down a rabbit hole - to help defeat the evil Red Queen of Hearts.”

“And . . .?”

“And that’s pretty much it; you know – bad guys trying to hurt the good ones.”

“So what do we get when we mix the two stories?” asked Soo.

“I guess we get the Wizard of Wonderland.”

“And how would that end?” asked Spirit.

“Maybe the Wizard will help us defeat the evil Red Queen.”

“Or maybe it’s the other way around” suggested Egg.

“More likely it’s something we would never expect,” said Bree.

*****

“Okay, let me try Tee’ka one more time before we continue. Maybe we’ll get lucky and she was able to reset herself,” and she called the girl’s name.

“Yes, Egg?”

“We really would like to end this dream.”

“This simulation must run its course.”

“Why?”

The image of their hostess flickered. Then she did something unusual. She raised her wand hand and, like a band conductor, waved it at Egg with each word she said. “I . . . have . . . been . . . restricted . . . from . . . interfering.  As . . . to . . . the . . . safety . . . protocols . . . I . . . remind . . . you . . . what . . . the . . . Myst Tree . . . once . . . said.” She stopped waving the wand and finished with “enjoy your simulation” and winked out.

Egg looked at her friends. “What did she say?”

Bree responded first. “Her wand . . . the tip wasn’t red.”

“That’s why she was waving it at your face,” added Sylvia. “To make sure you saw it. She’s letting you know that she’s reset herself but apparently still not able to help us.”

“What was the Myst Tree reference?” asked Spirit.

Egg wasn’t sure since she had lots of conversations with the Tree. However, Bl’azzz recalled one in particular. “Egg-o, when we were at Se’rene after the Seven Lands, you remembered something the Tree had told you . . . ‘all that was will be again’.

“How could I forget . . . he was telling us if we were successful, he would restore everything to the way it was.”

Sylvia suggested, “That’s probably what Tee’ka was telling us. She’s trying to restore the protocols. But she almost certainly has to figure a way to do it so that the big cheese doesn’t find out.”

“Well, that’s something. So, we have no choice but to follow the yellow brick road.”

“Egg, it’s red remember?”

“Soo, I only know the lyrics to the yellow one . . . so humor me.”

“What lyrics?”

“We're off to see the Wizard, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Something, something, something, something . . . Because of the wonderful things he does.”

“That was awful.”

“Syl, you know the words, sing it for us.”

She was about to sing . . . then stopped. She stared off into the black distance, obviously deep in thought.

“What’s wrong?” asked her friend.

“Egg, I think it’s the wrong song.”

“What do you mean?”

“I think we should be singing the one the Scarecrow sang . . . ‘If I only had a brain’.”

“That’s a little insulting.”

“No, no, no. There’s one verse that goes like . . . um . . . ‘I'd unravel any riddle, For any individ'le, In trouble or in pain.”

“What’s an individ’le?” asked Bl’azzz.

“The word is individual but sometimes they change them to make things rhyme better. Forget it, it’s not important.”

“Sylvia, you may be right,” agreed BreeZee. “Unravel a riddle for someone in trouble or in pain . . . that might just be the key to this whole thing.”

“That doesn’t sound like it’s referring to the Empre . . . I mean the big cheese,” observed Spirit.

“Then who?” asked Egg. “We haven’t met anyone else.”

No one had any idea.

“Well, let’s just keep walking. There are bound to be clues . . . all we have to do is find them.”

So the six young women walked down the blood red path, keeping alert for danger. Bl’azzz set a brisk pace and no one complained.  They were still in a graveyard and it was beginning to get on everyone’s nerve.

About a half mile later, they came to a fork in the road . . .

. . . with no signs suggesting which was the right way to go.

“Oh great. Now what?”

And, as if on cue, they heard a loud “GRRRRRRR” and jumped about two feet.

“What the heck was that?”

“Don’t know, don’t care to find out,” answered Soo.

“GRRRRRRR”.

And out from behind some trees stepped a . . . a. .  . creature that appeared to be a cross between a lion and a dragon. Best guess – it was supposed to be the famous cowardly lion who went looking for courage, but this one was just weird.

“GRRRRRR,” the creature repeated. This time the girls just stared because whatever it was supposed to be, it had the face of Aeri’elle.

“Big bird, is that you?”

“Of course it’s me.”

“What happened? Are you alright?”

“Why shouldn’t I be?”

“Well, for one thing, you’re a . . . a . . . what are you?”

“What I’ve always been – an honest and courageous lion.”

“I have no idea what that means.”

“It means . . .,” said another voice, “that she’s a prevaricator, a fibber, a teller of untruths.”

The girls turned around and there was . . . another one standing in the middle of the other fork.

“Oh my gosh. Aeri’elle?”

“None other.”

“What the heck is going on?”

“Egg, this is your dream . . . I haven’t a clue. What’s important is that you should never listen to her (and she pointed at the other Aeri’elle). She always lies. I, on the other hand, always tell the truth.”

“Liar,” said her twin. “I always tell the truth.”

“No, you don’t. I do.”

“Uh-uh. I do.”

“Liar.”

“You’re the liar.”

“Am not.”

“Am, too.”

“Oh my gosh . . . stop, already.”

“Egg, maybe they’re here to point us in the right direction,” whispered Bree.

“That would be too easy. Anyway, let’s hope you’re right. Aeri’elle . . .”

“Yes?”

“Yes?”

“She was talking to me.”

“No way. She was talking to me.”

“Would you two stop? Just tell us, which way is Emerald City? Which path do we choose?”

Naturally, each Aeri’elle pointed in a different direction.

“Gee, thanks. That was helpful.”

“Egg, I got this,” said her friend. “Aeri’elle, you on the left – which way would your twin tell us to go?”

“She would tell you to go that way,” and she pointed to the right where the other ‘her’ was standing.

“Okay. You on the right, same question, which way would your twin tell us to go.”

“This way, of course,” pointing to the path she was standing on (the one on the right).

“Thank you. Egg, we go that way,” and she pointed to the path on the left.

“Really? Why?”

"It’s kind of obvious. The liar will point in the opposite direction than the one we should take since she always lies. The one that tells the truth, knowing her sister only lies, would point in the wrong direction too since that’s what the lying sister would do. So, we should take the road that the sisters didn’t point too . . . that one on the left.”

Egg’s mouth dropped open. Soo glanced at Bl’azzz who stared at Sylvia in awe. Spirit’s eyes glowed red and Bree smiled to acknowledge her brilliant sister.

“Oh my gosh . . . my Feminion is back in all her glory. Nice going, you incredibly intelligent intellectual.”

“Ditto on that,” added Soo.

“That was awesome, Syl. Now, what about our twin sisters?” asked Bree. “What should we do with them?”

But as the six girls looked at the lions they did what you would expect them to do . . . they slowly faded away into nothingness.

“Well, there’s your answer.”

“I hope that with the safety protocols off, nothing has happened to Aeri’elle in real life,” said Spirit.

That put a damper on things until Egg said, “I’m not getting any goose bumps. I think she’s okay.”

Unfortunately, that wasn’t quite true though she had no way to know. Back in the real world, Aeri’elle also melted away to nothing only to be replaced by a replica – one that was much improved over the one of Spirit.

The real dragon rematerialized in a pod of some sort. She was still in a sleep state so had no idea what was happening to her.

Jynx, who was in the living room diligently watching the doors to the bedrooms, also had no idea that the sisters she had promised to protect were being transported away . . . trapped, helpless and beyond the reach of Flying Girl.

“Let’s get going,” implored Bl’azzz, “before another one of us turns into something bizarre.”

“I wonder how it will happen?” said Bree.

“What do you mean?”

“Well, Aeri’elle had flown off to scout the land and when we find her she’s been turned into twin lions. So, do we have to be out of sight of the others to get transformed into a storybook character? Or can it happen while everyone is looking?”

“I can’t answer that.  But just to be safe, don’t anyone go off by yourself. Stay together” instructed Egg.

“Yeah, that’s what I had planned to do, slither off into the dark just for giggles.”

“Don’t you dare,” said her friend missing the sarcasm. “Wherever you go, I go.”

“Good grief.”

Chapter 10 – The Sand Witch

As they virtually trotted down the path, Spirit asked Egg, “Do you think that the characters we turn into have something to do with your subconscious?”

“What do you mean?”

“Aeri’elle turned into the cowardly lion . . . why that character? Why not the mechanical man or the straw one?”

“Well, I certainly don’t think big bird is cowardly,” the other girl answered, obviously upset with the question. “Heck, you should have seen her save me from the monster AyBee. That took a lot of courage.”

Sylvia could sense her friend’s irritation. “Egg, Spirit wasn’t implying any such thing.”

“Of course, I wasn’t.”

“Sorry. I guess I’m a little on edge.” Truth be told, they all were.

“But my question still stands.”

“Did you know that a group of lions is called a pride? And we all know that no one is more proud than Aeri’elle. Maybe that’s how the computer made the connection,” offered Syl.

“As good an explanation as any.”

“Maybe it’s just random and has nothing to do with me.”

“Also a good explanation.”

They continued on in silence well aware that time was against them. Sooner or later, if Dorothy was right, another one of them was going to trans-configurate.

Maybe fifteen minutes later, they rounded a turn and came face to face with a very thick blanket of fog. Out of caution and fear, they stopped before they entered.

“I don’t like this,” exclaimed Egg. “Look at my arms . . .,” and she held them out for the others to inspect. They were covered in goose bumps.

When it’s dark and you’re in a dangerous situation and nothing looks familiar, your imagination can run wild. But it’s just that . . . a figment of your mind.

Unfortunately, this was a surreal dream and disturbing images from books or movies that lurk in our subconscious can come to life in a Fair’Giggle simulation.

And the gray fog began to swirl.

And the swirl took on a shape.

And that shape was a face . . .

As the image opened its enormous mouth, the red brick road became visible . . . and for all the world looked like a mouth full of blood. The girls did what any sane and sensible person would do . . . they screamed at the top of their lungs (though for Spirit it was a mental shout).

Upon hearing the girls shriek, the giant face had the strangest reaction – its eyes flew wide and it wailed, “Oh my gosh, what’s wrong? It’s not that the crazy Queen? Run, run.”

The six sisters stopped screaming and just stared in disbelief. If a monster face can be frightened . . . maybe he’s not really a monster at all. Maybe he’s just a big face.

Egg forced herself to step forward and take charge. “No. No Queen. Just us.”

“Then why did you yell? You scared the heck out of me.” If giant fog faces could cry, this one would definitely do it.

The girls relaxed and began to smile . . . both at their own foolishness and at the monster that wasn’t a monster.

“Sorry about that. We weren’t expecting  . . . um . . . you. You kind of startled us.”

“Oh. Well, I’m just glad it’s not the Queen.”

“She’s mean, huh?”

“Wicked and whacky. If you get the chance to meet her . . . don’t.”

“Yeah, we already got that advice. So, who are you?”

“You have to ask?” he asked. “I’m the great and powerful . . . “

“Oz?” interrupted Egg.

“Oz? Who’s Oz?”

“Never mind. So, you’re the great and powerful who?”

“Will-O’-the-Wisp Wizard, of course.”

“Of course you are. Should have recognized that big face of yours.”

“Are you’re making fun of me?”

“No, no really. So, Will, why are you here?”

“I’m the guardian of the red brick road, of course.”

“Who are you guarding it from?”

“From anyone who wants to pass but doesn’t have the answer.”

“The answer? To what?”

“Very kind of you to ask. A riddle. It’s a simple one, but you’d be surprised how few people can solve it. Ready?”

“Not really, but let’s hear it.”

“What is the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space; the beginning of every end and the end of every place?”

“Say what?”

He repeated the riddle.

“Just to be clear about this. If we can’t solve it, we can’t pass.”

“Sorry. It’s my job.” The big face actually sounded sad.

“Of course it is. Can you give us a minute?” She didn’t wait for an answer. Turning around, she gathered the other girls in a circle. “I want to make this official – I don’t do riddles. That’s why I have a Feminion. She’s the brain I was supposed to have but don’t. So, Syl – what’s the answer?”

“Egg, I did the last one. I think someone else should answer this one.”

“You don’t know the answer, do you?”

“No idea. No clue. Zippo.”

“Egg, since this is all a twisted recreation of your memories, you must have some idea,” suggested BreeZee.

“Trust me when I say – I got nothing.”

“Bree is right. Somewhere in your mind must be the memory of having encountered something like this brainteaser,” insisted Spirit. “Just give it some thought. Maybe I can help.”

She put her hands on either side of Egg’s head and her eyes turned red.

A moment later, Egg smiled. “Oh my gosh . . . I know the answer. Syl, remember all the silly word games we used to play with the guys (meaning Zeke and Zack). There was one that was kind of similar.” Her friend just shrugged not able to recall anything that would help with this riddle.

Egg turned back to the big face and said. “E”.

“What did she say?” Bl’azzz asked Soo.

“I think she said eek.”

“No, she said E, as in the letter E,” clarified Sylvia.

The big face smiled and said, “Correct. You may pass.” And with that, a puff of wind came up and blew the great and powerful Will-O’-The-Wisp Wizard away.

Egg turned to her sisters and took a little bow. “Not bad for a dimwitted daredevil”.

“You are not dimwitted,” said her Feminion. “You’re just intellectually lazy.”

“Again, you need to work on your compliments.”

“Wait. Wait. Wait,” demanded Soo. “Explain how the letter E solves the riddle.”

“What’s the beginning of the word eternity? The letter E of course. The end of time and space . . . again, the letter E.”

Spirit finished with “and the beginning of every end and the end of every place is also the letter E. Egg, that was brilliant.”

“Can’t argue with the truth,” she replied playfully (but with perhaps a little bit of pride).

“And you said you don’t do riddles,” kidded Sylvia.

“I think Spirit helped a little. What did you do, by the way?”

“Suppressed some of your . . . um . . . random thoughts. They kind of get in the way of you thinking more clearly.”

“Ouch.”

“Don’t feel badly . . . those thoughts are what make you, you.”

“Shall we continue?” interrupted Bree pointing down the road.

“We shall,” and the girls once again took off at a brisk pace.

“Egg-o.”

“Yeah, Soo?”

“I’m kind of surprised that we haven’t run into ‘he who must not be named’.

“He who?” replied the girl with too many random thoughts.

“Egg,” said an exasperated Sylvia. “MOBIUS, who else.”

“Ohhhhh. Right.  Well, there’s no way the mighty Laff’Alott computer won’t stick him into this simulation.”

“At least he won’t be the baddest character we meet,” said Bl’azzz over her shoulder. “Apparently the Red Queen holds that honor.”

“Baddest? That’s not even a word,” teased her friend. “How about . . .” but she didn’t finish.

“How about what? Don’t tell me you’re stumped for words,” and the F’yre Dragon turned around to smile at her friend. “Hey. Soo. Where’s Soo?”

The other girls turned to look . . . but there was no sea serpent.

“Rats,” exclaimed Egg. “Any chance that one of you saw what happened to her?”

Naturally, no one had.

Egg put her hand to her forehead as if it might help her think what to do next. The others waited patiently – nervously, but patiently.

“Oh my gosh, I guess we just keep going. This stupid dream needs to play out. Come on . . . let’s get it over with.”

Their brisk pace increased to a trot and after twenty minutes, only Bl’azzz wasn’t gassed (which was kind of ironic). To compound the issue, they were halfway up a fairly steep hill. “Please,” called Bree “I need to rest a bit.”

“Yeah, I know what you mean. Maybe this is why the big cheese took away my flying powers.”

“Egg, let me walk to the top of this hill. I’m not tired in the least and I want to see what’s on the other side.”

“Okay . . . but make sure you can see us at all times. And if there’s any . . . whatever . . . up there, get your hot breath back here fast. I’m not going to lose another one of you without a fight.”

“Gotcha. I’ll be back in a jiff,” and she took off up the hill.

As the others waited, Spirit asked, “Are we losing?”

“Losing?”

“This battle of wits with the big cheese.”

“We have a saying on earth . . . it ain’t over till it’s over. And this isn’t over yet.”

Spirit smiled at Egg. “I love your confidence, your defiance and your . . .”

“Complete disregard of the facts,” added Sylvia with a grin.

“What facts?”

“We’re down two sisters and we have no idea what we’re doing and no plan on how to win.”

“Don’t be ridiculous. Those aren’t facts . . . just minor annoyances. Personally, I think the big cheese is running scared.”

“Scared? Of what?”

“Of us, of course. We’ve solved two riddles; we’re well on our way to. .  . um, Spirit, what did you call Emerald City?”

“The Metropolis of the Crystalline Edifice.”

“Yeah, what she said. And we still have our sense of humor.  What’s not to be scared of?”

“You’re quite the optimist,” answered Bree.

“Yeah. Life’s more fun that way.”

“Hey, here comes Bl’azzz.” They looked up the hill to see the dragon bounding towards them.

“Well?”

“There’s a castle.”

“Really?”

“Really. Um, it looks like it’s made of sand.”

“A sand castle? Are you sure?”

“Pretty much.”

“How weird is that?”

“As compared to what?” asked Sylvia. “A giant fog face who asks riddles?”

“Good point. Okay, if everybody’s ready . . .,” and she looked at each girl in turn and received nods of okay. “Then, let’s go play in the sand.”

They slowed their pace since it was still uphill. When they reached the top, Bl’azzz pointed and said, ”Over there.”

“Nice,” said Flying Girl admiring the impressive structure. “Bet that took a lot of pails of sand to make.”

“How do we get in?”

“Walk up to the front door and knock. Come on.”

As it turned out, the castle was huge and wasn’t as close as it first appeared. It took the girls another twenty minutes to get there. Standing in front of the massive front door, Sylvia asked her friend, “Are you sure you want to go in there?”

“You have a better idea?”

“How about we don’t go in there.”

“Come on Syl, you know that’s not going to work. It’s here for us to enter.”

“Fiddlesticks.”

“Okay, here goes . . .” and Egg knocked. Her tiny hand on the massive door should have made almost no sound. Naturally, it sounded like thunder and the girls all jumped.

“Geez, what do you have, man hands?” asked Bl’azzz.

“I’ll have you know that I have perfect hands for a young lady my age,” and she raised them to her dragon friend.

“Definitely man hands,” teased the F’yre Dragon.

Before Egg could respond, the doors began to open. They squeaked and squealed like the gates to a dungeon or nails on a blackboard and the sisters shivered involuntarily.

“Come in, my pretties. Please,” came a familiar voice.

“Soo? That you?” called Bl’azzz.

“To be sure. Oh, yes. To be sure.”

“Let’s go,” said her friend anxious to reunite with the serpent.

“Wait,” called Egg. “Goose bumps.”

“Again . . . fiddlesticks.”

They took a collective deep breath and walked in. It was a massive room and in the center was a cauldron sitting on a fire. And standing behind it was Soo.

But, she was now a witch.

“Welcome, my pretties.”

“Soo?”

“No, no longer Soo. I’m now the Sand Witch, of course.”

“The sandwich? Like with baloney?”

“THE SAND WITCH” replied the annoyed former sea serpent. “This is my sand castle and I’m the Sand Witch.”

“Cute,” said Egg sarcastically.

“Why, thank you, my pretty. Most people don’t see it. Jealously, I think.”

“You used to be one of us,” explained Spirit. “Do you remember when you were Soo, a Hameggattic Sister?”

Ignoring the question, the witch asked, “What is your name, my pretty?”

“Spirit”.

“You’ll do nicely.”

Egg stepped between her sister and her former sister. “What does that mean exactly?”

“Oh, you’re about to find out. Trust me.”

“You know what, I think we’re just going to leave. Great meeting you. Lovely home. Gotta go.”

“Silly, silly girl. I think not.”

“Let’s get out of here,” Egg told her sisters.

But when they tried to turn and run . . . nothing happened. They couldn’t move.

“Rats.”

They turned their heads back toward ‘Soo who wasn’t Soo’ when they heard her start to chant. But she wasn’t addressing them. She was staring into the cauldron . . .

This cauldron I stir, first left then right

stoke the fire and make it bright.

The Red Queen calls, Her minions come,

feel the rhythm, hear the drum . . .

The light now flickers, the shadows form,

All hope flees before the storm

It is the hour, the time is here

The time to scream, the time to fear

Fires lit with dancing flame

Come my Queen, join the game

Night of the ancients, night of the old,

remembered in stories - but never told

The Queen doth rise upon this night,

look into her eyes, know fear and fright

Rituals and rites I now perform

traps my prisoners who must conform

Trick or treat, jinx or curse,

This potion will bring out everyone’s worst.

The Queen begins her time anew,

release the cold from this witch’s brew

She finished and turned toward Spirit. “I’m thinking of a number between one and ten. Can you guess it?”

Spirit shrugged at the nonsensical question . . . but answered, “Three?”

“Exactly. Very, very good. Three. Yes, yes, yes.” She pointed again at Spirit and muttered . . .

Thee I choose on this darkest day

Your friends you now must betray

Exotic Girl, play your part

I turn you into the Three of Heart.

And Spirit began to dissolve into a blur . . .

Then the blur began to take shape. And to the horror of her sisters, Spirit became . . .

. . . the Three of Hearts.

“Take them, my pretty, to the Red Queen.”

And she started to cackle with glee . . .

Mysteria & Sera’Fina

Book 3, The Serenity Deception

Another Novel of

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood

Copyright 2014, by Robert Iannone

All rights reserved

(Book & Illustrations)

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1 – Merlin the Magician

Chapter 2 – No Clowning Around

Chapter 3 – Queen of Hearts

Chapter 4 – Pod People

Chapter 5 – 3rd Rock from the Sun

Chapter 6 – Plan within Plans

Chapter 7 – Sera’Fina

Chapter 8 – Speed Racer

Chapter 9 – Up in the Air

Chapter 10 – And the Winner Is

Epilogue

Prologue

[Quick reminder: Egg and her sisters are in their own rooms but are sharing a ‘surreal dream’. This is one of the stranger ‘attractions’ offered by Fair’Giggle. The central computer has taken bits and pieces of Egg’s memories and woven a bizarre, mashed-up world that the girls must navigate through.]

**

Before Egg could respond, the doors began to open. They squeaked and squealed like the gates to a dungeon or nails on a blackboard, and the sisters shivered involuntarily.

“Come in, my pretties. Please,” came a familiar voice.

“Soo? That you?” called Bl’azzz.

“To be sure. Oh, yes. To be sure.”

“Let’s go,” said her friend anxious to reunite with the serpent.

“Wait,” called Egg. “Goose bumps.”

“Again . . . fiddlesticks.”

They took a collective deep breath and walked in. It was a massive room and in the center was a cauldron sitting on a fire. And standing behind it was Soo.

But she was now a witch.

“Welcome, my pretties.”

“Soo?”

“No, no longer Soo. I’m now the Sand Witch, of course.”

“The sandwich? Like with baloney?”

“THE SAND WITCH” replied the annoyed former sea serpent. “This is my sand castle and I’m the Sand Witch.”

“Cute,” said Egg sarcastically.

“Why, thank you, my pretty. Most people don’t see it. Jealously, I think.”

“You used to be one of us,” explained Spirit. “Do you remember when you were Soo, a Hameggattic Sister?”

Ignoring the question, the witch asked, “What is your name, my pretty?”

“Spirit”.

“You’ll do nicely.”

Egg stepped between her sister and her former sister. “What does that mean exactly?”

“Oh, you’re about to find out. Trust me.”

“You know what, I think we’re just going to leave. Great meeting you. Lovely home. Gotta go.”

“Silly, silly girl. I think not.”

“Let’s get out of here,” Egg told her sisters.

But when they tried to turn and run . . . nothing happened. They couldn’t move.

“Rats.”

They turned their heads back toward ‘Soo who wasn’t Soo’ when they heard her start to chant. But she wasn’t addressing them. She was staring into the cauldron . . .

This cauldron I stir, first left then right

stoke the fire and make it bright.

The Red Queen calls, Her minions come,

feel the rhythm, hear the drum . . .

The light now flickers, the shadows form,

All hope flees before the storm

It is the hour, the time is here

The time to scream, the time to fear . . .

Fires lit with dancing flame

Come my Queen, join the game

Night of the ancients, night of the old,

remembered in stories - but never told . . .

The Queen doth rise upon this night,

look into her eyes, know fear and fright

Rituals and rites I now perform

traps my prisoners who must conform . . .

Trick or treat, jinx or curse,

This potion will bring out everyone’s worst.

The Queen begins her time anew,

release the cold from this witch’s brew

She finished and turned toward Spirit. “I’m thinking of a number between one and ten. Can you guess it?”

Spirit shrugged at the nonsensical question . . . but answered, “Three?”

“Exactly. Very, very good. Three. Yes, yes, yes.” She pointed again at Spirit and muttered . . .

Thee I choose on this darkest day

Your friends you now must betray

Exotic Girl, play your part

I turn you into the Three of Heart.

And Spirit began to dissolve into a blur . . .

Then the blur began to take shape. And to the horror of her sisters, Spirit became . . .

. . . the Three of Hearts.

“Take them, my pretty, to the Red Queen.”

And she started to cackle with glee . . .

Chapter 1 – Merlin the Magician

“Oh my gosh. Spirit, are you okay?”

Ignoring the question, her former sister pointed toward the large door and said, “Follow me.”

“No,” responded Egg belligerently. “Not going to happen. We’re not going anywhere with you.”

The Three of Hearts didn’t smile, didn’t frown, didn’t show any emotion whatsoever. She simply picked up her lance, pointed it at the remaining four girls and repeated, “Follow me.”

Egg opened her mouth to argue again but found her body moving of its own accord. She glanced at the others and they, too, were beginning to move much like puppets on a string.

“Soo, make her stop,” pleaded Bl’azzz.

“I think not,” replied the witch.

“Please. Don’t do this.”

“Oh, dear me – just look at the time. It really does fly when you’re having fun, doesn’t it?  Can’t stay and chat . . . I really must skedaddle like a scalded cat.” She smiled at her silly rhyme then looked at her former sisters and said, “Smell you later, alligator.” Just to make weird even weirder, she did the unexpected (all things considered, that’s saying something).  She dove into the cauldron and disappeared. All that was left of Soo, the Sand Witch, was her comical conical hat floating on top of the bubbling liquid.

Unbeknownst to the others, back in their room, the real Soo also disappeared only to be replaced by a replica. She re-materialized, unconscious, in the same place as Aeri’elle . . . and she, too, was in some kind of pod.

The Three of Hearts marched slowly to the large front door and tapped her lance on the stone floor. The door responded by squeaking and squealing as it opened. Without looking back to make sure the girls were following, the newly trans-configurated Spirit walked out.

The four girls had no choice but to follow. Their herky-jerky motion made them look like zombies from a horror movie in search of a hot meal.

“Anybody have any ideas?” asked Egg.

“How about waking up and ending this nightmare,” suggested her Feminion.

“And how do we do that?”

“Maybe if I slap you . . .”

“You’re kidding, right?”

“Ummm . . . mostly.”

“Egg . . .,” called BreeZee, “Any idea what the Queen of Hearts will do to us?”

“If it’s like the story, she’ll chop off our heads.” That answer gave Bl’azzz a sudden attack of gas and she burped and burned.

“HEY, watch it,” yelled Egg as the fireball passed over her head.

But it missed by a good foot or two . . . and struck the Three of Hearts smack in the middle of her ‘playing card’ back.

To the horror of the Sisters, Spirit began to go up in smoke.

She turned around to look at the girls, her eyes very wide. But she didn’t scream . . . she just slowly dissolved into a reddish glow and a puff of smoke. And in a few seconds, she was gone.

Back in her room, Spirit also vanished like the others and was replaced by a replica. And now there was another sister in a pod . . . kind of like a bunch of peas.

“You don’t think I hurt her?” asked a shocked Bl’azzz.

BreeZee put her hand on the dragon to reassure her. “No, it was just her dream simulation, not the real her.”

“But the safety protocols . . .”

The Wind’dancer wasn’t sure how to respond so she looked to Egg for help.

“I think Tee reactivated them. Look . . .,” and she held up her arms, “. . . no goose bumps.”

Bl’azzz still didn’t look convinced. The thought that she might have hurt her Sister was overwhelming and she sat with her head hanging down.

“She didn’t scream,” interjected Sylvia.

“What?”

“She didn’t scream. If you had hurt her, she would have screamed. But, she didn’t. It wasn’t her.”

“You’re not just trying to make me feel better, are you?”

“Well, of course I am. But what I said still stands.”

“Besides . . .,” added Egg, “if we didn’t try to defend ourselves, then there would be no use going through this challenge. We’d just lose. So, it’s okay. In fact, when . . . I mean if . . . any of you change, you better watch your sorry butts. I will always defend my Sisters to the death . . . but simulations are fair game.”

She was trying to lighten the mood . . . but failed miserably.

Egg exhaled loudly. “Come on. Let’s keep going.”

“Which way?” asked Bree.

“Bl’azzz, fly us over the castle. The road probably continues on the other side.”

“Why don’t we just fly all the way?”

“Cause whatever got Aeri’elle might still be out there. Besides, up there . . .,” and she pointed skyward, “only you could defend us. Maybe Bree could help. Down here, all four of us can fight.”

The girls were quiet as they digested those words. Sylvia broke the silence with, “Did you ever notice that we’re actually lousy at fighting? We usually win by our wits and luck, not our strength.”

“Now that’s a scary thought,” replied her friend.

Bree, Syl and Egg climbed on the F’yre Dragon’s back and she leapt skyward. Up and over the castle then down again took all of ten seconds. Egg had guessed right . . . the red brick path was there. This time they walked closer together – just for safety sake.

“Hey, Feminion, what do you think we’ll meet next?”

“Well, we had sisters turn into a cowardly lion, a wicked witch from Oz, and a playing card from Wonderland. We met a wizard, but he wasn’t exactly the one from the Emerald City . . . but I guess that counts anyway. So I predict we either meet or turn into someone from Wonderland.”

“You don’t think one of us turns into the Queen of Hearts, do you?” asked BreeZee. “She sounds like a monster.”

Leave it to the ridiculously smart Sylvia to enlighten her sister. “Actually, the only true blue monster was the Jabberwocky from Wonderland. And it wasn’t even part of the story . . . just part of a poem in the story.”

“What kind of monster?”

“Um . . . um . . . uh-oh.”

Egg was trying to remember what her friend was referring to. Then it hit her. “Uh-oh”.

“You, too. What’s with the uh-ohs?” Bree had no way of knowing that the monster was part dragon.

Before they could answer, a sudden commotion made them turn towards Bl’azzz.

"Beware the Jabberwocky, my sisters . . . The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!”

“Ohhhhh, Bl’azzz.”

The jabberwocky, formally known as Bl’azzz, lunged at Egg . . . her big mouth opening to show impressively large, razor-sharp teeth. Surprised by the attack, the girl just managed to jump back as the monster’s jaw snapped closed.

“Hey, you giant gas bag, don’t do that.”

She did it again.

“How the heck are we going to stop her?”

“Why are you asking me? I’m just your Feminion, not a magician.”

“Lucky for you, I am.”

By now, the girls were so used to hearing voices out of nowhere that they didn’t even jump.

But they did turn around to see someone not totally unexpected. It was Mobius. However, this one was dressed like a magician and his skin was a different color than normal. What was a little disturbing was that his head and face were twisted. It made an ugly man look even uglier.

“Hey, Mo,” said Egg as if she was greeting an old friend.

“Shall I rid you of this creature?”

“That would be nice. Just don’t hurt her.”

“Perish the thought . . . and I perish thee, you foul and loathsome monster. I huff and I puff and I blow you away,” and he took a deep breath and did just that. Bl’azzz who wasn’t Bl’azzz flew off into the darkness, like a leaf in a windstorm, and was soon lost from sight.

And, yes, the real Bl’azzz did as her sisters before her had done. She faded away to be replaced by a replica. Unconscious, she materialized inside a pod like the others.

“Thanks,” said Egg. “And who are you supposed to be?”

“I am Merlin the Magician, of course.”

“Merlin . . . hey, that’s pretty cool.”

“Which story is he from?” asked BreeZee. “Oz or Wonderland?”

Syl explained, “Neither. He’s a friend of King Arthur – a story about a sword called Excalibur and the Knights of the Round Table.” The explanation was getting complicated so she stopped and said, “That’s not really important. Merlin, though, was a powerful magician . . . think wizard . . . who helps the good guys.”

“How weird is it that the computer made our arch-enemy a friend?”

“I’d rather have him as a good guy than his normal, evil self,” answered Egg. Turning to the man in question, she asked, “So, what else can you do for us?”

“What would you have me do?”

“Um . . . help us get to the Emerald City, for one.”

“I have never heard of such a place.”

“You haven’t?”

“Egg, that’s not the correct name in this dream” reminded Syl.

“Oh, right.” Turning back to the Magician, she said, “I meant the Metropolis of the Crystalline Edifice.”

“Ah, MeCryEd . . . As it happens, I was on my way there when I came across you three ladies in distress. I would be pleased to escort you.”

“Hang on a second. What’s me-cried?”

“Most strange that you are unfamiliar with such a common term. Me is short for Metropolis. Cry is the abbreviation for Crystalline and Ed . . . “

Egg cut him off. “For Edifice. Got it.”

“We can talk on the way. As it is, I’m late, very late, for an extremely important date. No time to stand and linger, for I am the royal bringer . . . and the Queen is eager to decide your fate.”

“Say what?”

“Fiddlesticks”. Egg looked at her friend. “He’s working for her.”

“Yeah, I got that, too.”

“Shouldn’t we run or something?” asked Bree.

“I’m guessing that’s not going to help.” She turned back to Mo the magician and asked, “Am I right or am I right?”

“You are Egg of Earth . . . in the end you are always right, are you not?”

“Not so much.”

“Will you come peacefully or must I restrain you?”

“Hmmm . . . let me think,” and she stroked her chin like she was deep in thought. “You know, we really shouldn’t make this too easy for you. Tell you what; give me a minute to talk it over with my friends. Maybe they can convince me to do it your way. Okay?”

“One minute . . . not a second more.”

Egg moved a few yards away and the other two followed her.

“If he’s really a magician,” said Syl “there’s no way we can escape a magic spell.”

“So if running isn’t an option,” added the Wind’dancer, “you must have something else in mind.”

“Yeah . . . but it’s a long shot. This is supposed to be a contest but we have nothing to fight off a wizard’s spell. So there must be something here that we either missed or could use. Maybe a someone.”

“Like who?” asked Bree.

They went quiet for a few seconds then Sylvia’s face lit up. “The clown.”

“Who?”

“The clown on the tombstone that we saw when we started out. The first inscription was a warning to us but the second one . . . that might have been our clue.”

“I don’t remember what it said.”

“Um . . . hang on . . . it was, oh yeah . . . it was ‘the best magic is a good laugh but not all laughs are magic.”

“Wow,” said Bree, “that’s a bit of a stretch. But, I think it’s brilliant.”

“Thank you.”

“Now, do you have any idea how we would call him? Do we just say ‘Hey Clown, help?”

“I still don’t get it. Why would we want a clown? Even if we had one, why would he want to help us?” Egg inquired of her friend.

Before the girl could answer (assuming that she had one), you’ll never guess what fell from the night sky?

Nope, you’re wrong. It was a hat.

“Good grief,” bellowed the Magician.

The girls looked from the hat to ‘Merlin-who-looked-like-Mobius’.

“Don’t touch it,” he yelled.

So, naturally, Egg swooped down and picked it up. When it got to eye level, something a bit unusual happened. A clown fell out of the hat (though the hat stayed attached to his head).

“And why not a clown?” said the newly arrived clown. It was definitely the same face as the one on the tombstone. How weird.

“What the heck,” was the best Egg could come up with.

“I wish you hadn’t done that,” the Magician said to the girl. Turning to the new arrival he sighed with a flourish “Ah, the Japing Jester . . . how nauseatingly unpleasant to see you again.”

Instead of responding to the nasty man, the clown turned to Egg and said, “I’ll help because I owe you one, kid.”

“One what?”

“You know . . . when you barfed and . . . and . . .,” he looked embarrassed, which is not easy to do when you’re a clown in a top hat. “That other thing you did.”

Bree leaned over and whispered, “I think he means when you wet yourself.”

“Again . . . I got it.” Turning to the clown, she asked “Can you really get rid of him” and she pointed to the Magician.

“Easy-peasy.”

“Really” said the ugly magician. “What did you intend to do . . . scare me senseless with that grotesque face of yours?”

Egg had to agree. “That’s a good question . . . um . . . what’s your name, by the way?”

“Zeke.”

“NO!” she cried in horror while her two friends went hysterical.

“You never mentioned he was so cute,” teased BreeZee.

“She does know how to pick them,” chimed Sylvia.

“Hey, Feminion, don’t forget your boyfriend is Zeke’s identical twin.”

“Oops.”

“So, Z . . .” she just couldn’t say his full name “. . . what did you have in mind?”

“Yes, Zeke . . . what did you have in mind? How does a jester best a magician, I wonder?” wondered the magician.

“The usual way.”

“Which is?”

“I make you laugh until you go weak in the knees.”

Egg rolled her eyes. “Oh my gosh. You’ve got to be kidding me?”

“Actual, it’s him I’ve got to be kidding.”

“Good grief.”

“Enough of this nonsense. It is time that we go . . . and time for you to disappear,” and Mo the Magician pulled out a wand. He started to recite a spell . . . “Hocus-Pocus Pocahontas, let this witless fool be gone. I cast you out, go far from sight, no more to be seen this darkest night,” and he brought his wand up and started to point and shake it at Zeke.

The clown laughed and said (rather hurriedly), “I challenge you to a contest of wits.”

The Magician’s hand froze.  “Oh, please,” he responded in disgust.

“What’s going on?” Egg asked.

“A challenge must always be answered, as the Hameggattic Sisters well know,” replied the Magician. Kudos to the very sophisticated computer for incorporating that trait into the simulation.

Chapter 2 – No Clowning Around

“So how does this work exactly?” asked Egg.

“Quite simple, really. We ask riddles of one another until someone is stumped. At that point, the game is ended and the winner names his prize. As it happens, I have always disliked the Clown’s dreadful face. When I win, I shall cast a spell and do this world a favor by rearranging that annoying visage into something more pleasing.”

Egg stole a glance at her two sisters. It was obvious that none of them had any faith that this Zeke could best the Magician.

“Since you posed the challenge, you may go first,” Mobius said to the Clown.

“I know the rules, you big buffoon. Now, let me think,” and for some reason that wasn’t obvious, he stuck a finger into each of his ears. Egg’s mouth dropped opened, Sylvia covered hers so she wouldn’t laugh out loud and Bree just stared wide-eyed.

After about a half minute, the Magician became impatient. “We haven’t got all night, Jester.”

With fingers in his ears, Zeke couldn’t hear the complaint. But, a few seconds later, he removed them, looked at the Magician and said, “I claim the right to use one of my life lines.”

“Oh my gosh . . . you’re killing me, Jester,” complained the Magician using two of Egg’s favorite lines. “Go ahead, but be quick about it.”

Zeke put his hands to the side of his face – pinky pointed to his mouth, thumb to his ear as if he was holding a phone. “Ring. Ring. Ring.”

“What’s he doing?” asked Bree who had never seen a phone.

“Calling a friend, I guess,” answered Egg referring to an old TV game show.

“Yikes.”

Egg looked at Syl. “What?”

“Listen,” and she held up her hand. It was ringing.

“Good grief . . . he’s calling you.”

“What should I do?”

“Answer it,” said an exasperated Egg.

So Sylvia put her hand to her face like the clown had done. “Hello?”

“Hello. It’s me . . . Zeke.”

In as much as the clown was standing about five feet away, they could hear him well enough without the make-believe phone. But she played along. “Hi, Zeke. What can I do for you?”

“I need a riddle . . . preferably one that has no answer.”

Egg slapped the sides of her head in disbelief. “I’ve got one. When is a clown not a clown? Answer – when he’s him,” and she pointed at the Japing Jester.

“You are such a goof.” Sylvia closed her eyes for a few seconds then said into her hand that was now a phone. “Why is a raven like a writing desk?" It was a famous riddle from Wonderland.

“What?” repeated Zeke.

“Why is a raven like a writing desk?”

“Why?”

“ZEKE . . . if I tell you, the Magician will hear the answer. Just ask the riddle.”

The Clown shrugged and said “Okay.” He turned to look at Mobius and repeated the riddle. Then he added, “And remember, you have one minute to answer.” He reached inside a pocket and pulled out an hourglass (though presumably this one measured only a minute of time), turned it over and the sand began to trickle out.

The Magician looked furious as he feverishly searched his mind for an answer. The girls could almost hear the gears of his brain clanking and turning. As it became apparent that he couldn’t come up with the solution, his big blue face became red. He finally bellowed, “Fool, the riddle has no answer. You forfeit your turn.”

The clown smiled angelically and said, “The answer is obvious . . .,” then turned to Sylvia and said, “Tell him.”

“Because both can produce a few notes, though they are very flat; and neither is ever put with the wrong end in front!"

“What?” cried Mobius

“What?” echoed Egg.

“Huh?” said the Clown.

“That’s the answer.”

“Are you kidding me?” asked her friend.

“No. Lewis Carroll who wrote Alice in Wonderland came up with that solution. The riddle was never meant to be answered because the Hatter was mad as a . . . well, as a Mad Hatter. But everyone wanted an answer and that’s what he came up with.”

“Well, it’s stupid.”

They turned back to the Clown and the Magician who were arguing.

“I refuse to accept that answer. It’s ludicrous.”

“It’s the answer. Now . . . go away.”

“I will not,” but apparently by the rules of this weird simulation he had no choice. He slowly dissolved into a cloud of little sparkles that faded out.

Sylvia was all smiles as she received congratulatory hugs from the other two.

“That was still a stupid answer,” insisted Egg. “It makes no sense.”

“It worked, didn’t it?”

“Yeah, it did.”

“Hey, if you’re giving out hugs, shouldn’t I get one . . . or two . . . or three?”

They turned back to the clown . . . and his horrifying face made them shudder involuntarily.

“Don’t you ever smile?” asked Egg. “Clowns are supposed to be happy.”

“What are you talking about? I am smiling.”

And that made the girls giggle. Egg went up to Zeke and gave him his hug. “Thank you.”

“I aim to please, Eloise. So, are we even now?”

“Yup. Even-Steven. No, I take that back. I think we owe you one.”

“Really? Are you sure? Absolutely, positively, unconditionally, irrevocably, unequivocally sure?”

“Wow, that was a mouthful. Yes, I’m sure. You helped save us from the Red Queen.”

“I did, didn’t I? You know, I’ll let you in on a little secret. Sometimes clowning around and trying to make people laugh makes me sad. Most don’t appreciate how hard that is. So, if I could, I rather be something scary . . . it’s much easier to scare people. Didn’t know that, did you?”

Egg had no idea what Zeke was talking about but decided that out of gratitude for his help, she would play along. “No. No I didn’t. How about you guys?” she asked her friends.

“No.”

“Me neither.”

“So . . . why are you telling us this? Is there something we can do to help?”

“Funny you should ask . . .” He stopped and harrumphed. “See. That’s what I mean. I just made a joke and what do I get for my troubles? Nothing. Zippo. Zilch.”

“It wasn’t much of a joke. Maybe you need better material.”

“Sheesh. Everyone’s a critic.”

“Zeke . . . we really have to get going. So if there’s something you want from us . . . spit it out.”

“Yuk. Spit?”

“It’s an expression . . . JUST TELL ME WHAT YOU WANT,” she cried out in frustration.

“No need to get grumpy. All I want is for one of you to wear my hat.”

“Why?” Egg asked suspiciously.

“Forget it. If it’s too much to ask . . . considering how I helped you girlies . . . well, forget it. Go. Leave me to my misery.”

“Egg, I’ll wear it,” said BreeZee.

“You sure?”

“It’ll look cute on me. Hand it over, Zeke.”

“You’re a doll, doll face. By the way, how do you make a butterfly?”

“How?”

“Flick it out of the dish with a butter knife.”

“What?”

“Geez, it’s a joke. Don’t butterflies have a sense of humor?”

“I’m not a butterfly.”

“Hate to burst your bubble . . . but if you’re not a butterfly then I’m not the best looking clown that ever was. Here,” and he pulled out a mirror, “take a peek.”

“Give me that,” and an annoyed Egg grabbed the silly thing out of his hand.

“You don’t need it. You’re definitely no butterfly . . . more like a drab moth. Just my opinion.” Turning back to Bree, he said in a very sweet voice, “So, let’s see how it looks.”

She took the hat and put it on . . . but it was way too large and her entire head disappeared. The other girls giggled until Bree screamed as she struggled to remove it. “Get it off. Get it off. Hurry. Please.”

Egg and Sylvia rushed over and yanked it off . . . then they shrieked. Half of BreeZee’s face had turned into that of a primate . . . as in monkey.

As she continued to scream, the transformation completed itself. The Wind’dancer was now a flying monkey.

“BREE,” yelled a horrified Egg.

It’s hard to say what she was expecting as an answer. What she got was something like “Aaaaccchhh! Ooooccchhhh”. It was definitely monkey talk but its meaning was not obvious. Even the translation crystals couldn’t decipher it.

“Oh, Bree,” sighed Egg. She then whipped around to confront the Clown but he, too, was transforming. “Oh my gosh”.

Zeke the Japing Jester had become the zombie dragon that Prince Z’kkk had ridden when Mobius had turned him into the wraith K’aos.

The creature eeked once at the girls (including the flying monkey) and bounded into the night sky and disappeared. Apparently, Zeke got his wish.  No more trying to get people to laugh; now he could scare the heck out of them.

“Aaaaccchhh! Ooooccchhhh”.

Egg and Syl turned back to the monkey girl. “What can we do, Bree?”

“Aaaaccchhh! Ooooccchhhh”. Whatever that meant, it was her last message as she, too, bounded into the air, and flew away.

The girls watched her disappear. “Then there were two,” whispered Sylvia.

“Come on, let’s go,” said Egg as she grabbed her friend’s hand and they continued down the red brick road. “I’m getting really mad.”

Back in the room, BreeZee disappeared and followed her other sisters to wherever they were taken.

*****

As they walked quickly down the path, Syl said to her friend, “I guess I’m next.”

“Not if I can help it.”

“Egg, you know you can’t. It’s . . . it’s . . . ummm.”

“What’s wrong? You’re not trans-whatever-ating, are you?”

“Trans-configurating and no.  Egg, I know what’s going on. I think I figured it out.”

“You do? You did? What?”

“She’s not testing the sisterhood. The big cheese is testing you.”

“Me? Why me? We’re in this together – like Spirit said, it’s the power of seven”.

“Obviously, that’s not how she sees it. Face it, you’re our leader. Without you there would be no sisterhood.” She held up her hand “stop. Don’t argue. We all know it’s true. None of us have what you have. In fact, none of us even knows what you have. Whatever it is, it makes the sisters into a sisterhood. The Empress doesn’t care about the rest of us. She’s doing the opposite of what most enemies would do – she’s not attacking the weak links. She’s going after the strongest one – you.”

“Syl, you’re nuts. I’m completely lost without my brain. And that would be you.”

“Egg, I may be quicker to find the answer to a problem or riddle. But, in the end, you would figure it out too. I truly believe that.”

“Well, in a way you might be right.”

“How so?”

“After all these years I always thought you were crazy . . . and, ta-da, I’m right.”

“You’re such a goof.”

“In a good way?”

Sylvia smiled at her companion. “Thank you for being you . . . for being my best friend. All that I will be is because of what the two of us have experienced together. I’m a much better person for having known you.” She pulled Egg close and hugged her.

After a few seconds, Egg reminded her friend “five, ten seconds tops.”

“Oh, yeah. Sorry.”

“Promise me you’ll reconsider what you said about retiring from the Sisterhood.”

Sylvia wiped the moisture from her eyes. “Sure. I promise,” but that was a not-so-little white lie. Her mind was made up.

Egg wasn’t fooled for a moment. “Liar.”

“We definitely spend too much time together,” replied her Feminion. “Like you tell Grammy, we share one brain in two different bodies.”

“I wish I had your brain. I think we’re more like Ham and Egg.”

“Yeah, we are.”

“Come on, let’s see how far we get before you turn into . . .” She stopped and asked, “What do you think it’ll be?”

“Hope it isn’t the Red Queen. I’d feel really bad if I had to whack off your head.”

“Not as bad as I’d feel,” and they both giggled.

*****

They continued for more than an hour and they were both exhausted. And now they faced another small hill.

“We need to rest,” panted Egg and she fell to her knees.

“I think we’re almost there – not sure why. It’s just a feeling.”

“Give me a few minutes.”

“Okay. I’m just going to the top to see if I’m right.”

“For a smart person, that’s the dumbest idea you’ve ever had.”

“Why?”

“Cause if you’re next, when do you think it’ll happen? I’m guessing when you reach the top of the hill.”

“Are you getting goose bumps?”

Egg checked her arms. “No. But that doesn’t prove anything.”

“I’ll be back in a minute. I won’t let you out of my sight. Okay.”

“No, but go ahead.”

So Sylvia trotted up the little hill and stopped. “EGG” she yelled.

“You okay?”

“Yes. There’s a wall here. Come take a look.”

“Don’t move. I’ll be right there.”

As she walked up the hill, Egg started thinking about Oz and Wonderland. Then her eyes flew wide and she yelled “SYL. SYL. SYL.” No answer other than goose bumps. “Oh, please let me be wrong. Please.”

Sadly, when she got to the top, she was proven right. “Oh, Syl.”

Guess what egg sat on a wall, and had a great fall? And all the king's horses and all the king's men couldn’t put you-know-who back together again.

“Egg . . . I’m an egg, too.”

“Yeah, I figured that out when you said there was a wall.”

“See, you do have a brain.”

“If I had a brain, I would never have let you come up here by yourself.”

“That was my fault, not yours.”

“I’m the leader . . . you said so. So, it’s my fault for agreeing to it.”

Ignoring her friend’s mea culpa, the egg on the wall said, “Did you notice the tombstone?”

“Geez, how did I miss that?’

“And, the sun’s coming up.”

“Good. Didn’t like playing this game in the dark.”

“You know what that means, don’t you?”

Egg was about to say something smart-alecky but changed her mind. “It means that Spirit’s vision of the future is about to come true, right?”

“Such a brainiac. You’re right – only you made it out of the dark.”

“Uh-uh. You’re still here.”

“One thing about us eggs is that we can’t sit very well. Our butts are round.”

“Well, come down. I’ll catch you.”

“Silly, that’s not how this works. Oh, and Egg – show her why the Hameggattic Sisterhood can’t lose. Show her that there’s no one in the entire universe like my BFF. See Ya.”

“SYL”.

But the egg on the wall fell over backwards and landed with a very sickening splat. Our Egg couldn’t get up the courage to look. She called out “Syl?” but as she expected received no answer.

Back in the room, Sylvia joined her other sisters in those strange pods while a replica replaced her.

“Well, let’s get this over with,” said Flying Girl to herself. She started to trot down the path singing, “I’m off to see the Queen, the terrible Queen of Hearts. If ever an evil queen there was, the Queen of Hearts she was, she was. Oh, I’m off to see the Queen, the terrible Queen of Hearts.”

Egg might be a great leader, a wonderful friend and fearless defender of good . . .

But she really couldn’t sing very well.

Chapter 3 – Queen of Hearts

Thirty minutes later, the last surviving member of the Hameggattic Sisterhood crested one more hill and came face to face with the Metropolis of the Crystalline Edifice.

Since Spirit had warned her, Egg wasn’t in the least bit surprised that it looked exactly like the Crystal Mountain. In a strange way, it was kind of reassuring . . . if only because it was a familiar sight in this weird simulation.

But how the heck was she going to cross the lake to reach it?

She sat down, taking advantage of this time to rest, while she considered the problem. Syl had said she, Egg, was smart enough to figure out things like this. So, not wanting to disappoint Humpty, she went through her options with deliberate care.

The only thing she could come up with was a great desire to be Flying Girl again which, of course, would render this predicament solved.

“BUT . . .,” she said out loud, “if I can’t fly, I know someone who can.” Though it was a very long shot, she had nothing to lose at this point. She stood up, cupped her hands around her mouth and screamed “Hey, CLOWN. CLOWN.” She gazed skyward but saw nothing. She tried again, only this time using his name “ZEKE. ZEKE.”

And lo and behold, the jester-turned-zombie dragon showed up.

“Hey, you ugly, scary thing . . . you owe me a favor. Get down here.”

Five minutes later, Egg was walking through the massive doors that led into the crystal edifice. She looked around expecting to see the Queen but all there were was an army of lance-carrying playing card people (like Spirit had turned into).

“Morning. Anyone order an Egg for breakfast?” She smiled at her little joke and the memory of what Syl would say to her at a moment like this – ‘you’re such a goof’.

“You impudent little thing . . . I should have your head hacked off,” came an imperial voice.

Egg took a deep breath before she turned around . . . in anticipation of who the wicked Queen would be. But in a sudden insight from her newly activated brain, she knew the answer. “Meggy” she said and spun around . . .

“Nailed it,” she squealed in delight at her mental victory. “Who’s a goof now?”

“How dare you address me without permission?”

“My bad.”

“Your bad what?”

“What?”

“Don’t toy with me. I may be a warm and gentle Heart . . .,” The Queen stopped for someone had barked out a laugh at her wrong-footed description of herself. “Who dares laugh at me?”

Not surprisingly, no one volunteered to take credit.

“You, Minister, find me a club or a diamond, preferably a four or seven, and remove his head.”

“But, your Majesty . . .”

“Do not argue, you fool. Either his head or yours . . . feel free to choose which one to lose.”

The Minister nearly fell down as he ran through the army of Cards looking for a club or a diamond. He finally found a seven that suited his needs and grabbed the poor fellow by the arm. “Follow me . . . and be quick about it.”

“But . . . but . .  . I’ve done nothing,” protested the poor fellow.

“Not to worry,” whispered the Minister.

“Easy for you to say . . . it’s my head not yours.”

“Be a good fellow and follow me. I’ll hide you till morning and she’ll have forgotten the whole thing.”

“You’re not just saying that to confuse and befuddle me, are you?”

“If I had everyone beheaded that she commands, there would be no one left but her and me. And I will simply refuse to behead myself. I find the whole concept disagreeable.”

As the Minister and his victim disappeared from view, the Queen turned her attention back to Egg. “Where were we?”

“Right here.”

“What?”

“Don’t start that again.”

Her Royal Nastiness harrumphed. “I am NOT in the habit of talking to myself but apparently it's the only way I can get a decent conversation around here.”

“Don’t let me stop you,” quipped Egg.

The Queen glared at the newcomer. “Who are you? And don’t say what.”

“I’m . . .,” she was just about to say “Egg” but thought better of it. “Name’s Alice.”

“I find that name repugnant as well as incorrect. I shall refer to you as . . . as . . . Egg. Now, what kind of Egg shall it be? Let me think. Scrambled? No. Poached? Uh-uh. I know . . . how about Coddled. Yes, that will do nicely . . . Eloise the Coddled Egg.”

“What the heck is a coddled egg?”

“If you were an edible dish, a coddled egg is one that is gently or lightly cooked.”

“But . . . I’m not breakfast food.”

“No. Most assuredly you are not.”

“Then coddle would mean . . . ?”

“Pampered, indulged, babied, overprotected, spoiled . . .”

“Stop. I get it.”

“How quick witted of you. Sylvia was right . . . eventually you will find an answer.”

Egg’s amusement in this silly exchange was quickly turning into annoyance. Worse, she could feel the goose bumps rise on her arms. She thought furiously about what was happening . . . and her mind virtually yelled the answer.

“You’re not the Queen of Hearts . . . you’re Violetta.”

The Queen stared at the girl, the smug amusement leaving her face. “My, my, my. That was unexpected. Is it possible I have underestimated you?”

Before she barked out a witty – and hopefully insulting – retort, a mental hand came down in her mind and stopped her. She could almost hear her Feminion whisper, “Don’t egg her on, Egg. Play nice.”

“The Hameggattic Sisterhood isn’t a threat to you . . . your Majesty.” She was pleased with herself for adding that last part.

The Queen laughed. “The Hameggattic Sisterhood a threat? How absurd. Whatever gave you the idea that I felt threatened?”

“If we’re not a threat, then why are you doing this?”

“Can you think of no reason?”

“How much time do I have?”

Despite herself, the Queen laughed at Egg’s jest. “I must admit, you are not what I expected.”

“I never am.”

One more goofy, very Egg-like, response. And one more laugh from the Queen.

“In another time and another place, you and I may have been friends.”

“Why not now?”

The smile on the Queen melted away and was replaced with a cold, heartless stare. “Because now I am no longer me and the very idea of you and your sisterhood boils my blood.”

Egg took a step back at the sudden, and emotional, outburst. “I don’t understand.”

“Maybe this will help,” and the Queen’s face transformed into . . .

“You’re Velveeta?” Egg wasn’t expecting anyone so young or so human looking.

“Of course not.”

“Then who . . .,” and another flash of insight illuminated Egg’s brain. “You’re Serenity.”

The new face stared at her for many seconds before answering with a very reluctant “Well done.”

“Thanks. I’m not usually this clever. Actually, I’m never this clever.” Egg was being serious and that sincerity was not lost on the other girl.

“It’s not an act, is it?”

Egg scrunched her face in confusion . . . this time there was no illumination. Not even a candle flicker. “You got me . . . what are you talking about?”

Serenity was referring to Egg’s modesty but chose not to tell her. “It makes no difference.”

“Can I ask you a question? Why this whole dream contest?”

“The contest was never this dream.”

“I don’t understand.”

“First, do you actually believe you made it this far on your own?”

“Of course not. I had my sisters.”

“Wrong. You are here so I could meet you.”

“Why in a dream simulation?”

“Why do you think?”

Egg exhaled from exhaustion . . . having to do this much thinking without Syl or the others to help was hard. “Well, in here you obviously control what’s going on. But . . . but out in the real world you can’t. Or at least you can’t do as much.” She looked at Serenity and asked, “How am I doing so far?”

“You may continue.”

“Cool. Um . . . yeah, that’s all I got.”

“How disappointing. I would have thought the leader of the famous Sisterhood would have been a good deal more clever.”

Egg smiled at Serenity’s mistake. “I would have thought that a mega-genius like you would know better.”

“What does that mean?”

Turning the tables, Egg asked, “What do you think?”

Serenity stared hard . . . whether the emotion on her half-masked face was anger, annoyance or surprise was impossible to tell. Whatever it was, she apparently was giving Egg’s question some serious thought. “Are you suggesting that a superior intelligence isn’t a requirement of leadership?” The concept obviously surprised her.

“I’m guessing the answer is standing right in front of you.”

“I don’t understand?” and for once, Serenity sounded like an eighteen year old.

“Now you’re asking me to explain why someone like me – someone who’s definitely not the brightest candle in the sock drawer – can get some really amazing sisters to follow her. Truthfully, I can’t.”

“The others have surely told you.”

“They try but I usually make them stop. I hate when others think I’m more than I am. I’m just Egg. I like to help people. I love my sisters and would do anything to protect them. And, I really dislike anyone who isn’t nice. I tend to get in their face, look them in the eye and laugh. Or insult them. Or both.”

“And?”

“That’s it.”

“Curiouser and Curiouser.” Serenity was obviously digesting the information for her eyes (actually eye) had that far-away look. “I see a conflict in your stated goals.”

“Say what?”

“You love your sisters and would do anything to protect them. On the other hand, you like to help people. What would you do if you had to betray a sister in order to save an entire planet? Better yet, what would you do if you had to betray all of your sisters to save that planet?”

Egg’s eyes went wide at the thought of having to make that decision. “I would sacrifice myself first.”

“I believe you. However, that was not the choice I posed . . . your sisters or a world full of people?”

Egg went silent as she tried to find an answer . . . one that would satisfy herself, not Serenity. “When the time came to make that decision, I’d know what to do.”

“Evasive but I accept it. I guess I’ll have to give you the opportunity . . . then we’ll see what you will do.”

“Meaning what?” demanded Egg as she involuntarily rubbed the simulated goose bumps on her simulated arms.

“I prefer to keep it a secret for now. You understand, I hope.”

“I don’t understand any of it. Why are you doing this stuff? What have we ever done to you?”

“You annoy me greatly.”

“Yeah, I do that to a lot of people. Whatever I did, I’m sorry,” and she meant it.

“Apology not accepted.”

“Didn’t think it would be that easy. So what now? How much more of this dream is there?”

“Oh, it’s just about over.”

“Then?”

“Then the real challenge will begin.”

Egg’s brain, now that it was working like it should, sparked another thought. “I’m not going to remember any of this conversation, will I?”

Serenity smiled in appreciation at the other’s reasoning. “Obviously you were being modest once again when you denied your intellectual prowess.”

“No, not really. I’m as surprised as you that my brain actually works.”

“Since it does, then you won’t need a Feminion anymore.” It was a statement not a question.

“Syl’s my best friend. I’ll always need her.”

“Interesting.”

“What is?”

“That suggests another challenge I think you’ll find uncomfortable. Who would you betray – Sylvia or two other sisters?”

“What are you talking about?”

“If you had to choose, would you betray the trust of two of your sisters to save your best friend?”

“I’ll never betray any of my sisters,” screamed Egg.

Serenity just laughed.

“Stop doing this,” demanded Egg who was now getting frightened. “Whatever we did to make you mad, we’re sorry. Stop being so mean.”

“Mean? What a childish concept This is simply a scientific experiment in psychology.”

Egg wasn’t buying it. “That’s a lie, isn’t it?”

“Why do you say that?”

“Just a feeling. Unlike Sylvia, I get most of my answers from these feeling rather than from my brain which is usually sleeping.”

“So what do your ‘feelings’ tell you?”

“Ummm . . .,” Egg stared at Serenity trying to sense what the other girl was really thinking. “Oh my gosh.”

“What?”

“You want to join the sisterhood.”

The shock on Serenity’s face was plain to see. “Don’t be ridiculous,” she lied.

“But you’re just like Aeri’elle was in the beginning. You think you should be in charge. You think because you’re smarter than . . . than . . . well, me . . . that it will make you a better leader.”

“Stop.”

“Serenity, we’re looking for a new sister. Give us a chance to get to know you. I’m sure we’ll vote you in.”

“You’re making a fool of yourself.”

“And if over time you prove to be a better leader than me, I’ll be the first to say so. There’s no need for any of this . . . this simulation or whatever else you have planned.”

Serenity was stunned by the other girl’s comments. For someone of such average intelligence, how could Egg possibly intuit her motives? It made her confused which made her angry which made her more angry.

“Enough of this. I’m going to wipe your memory clear of ever having met me. I will replace it with some fictitious events that you will tell the others about. Then, the real contest will begin . . . and it won’t be in a dream.”

“Come on, Serenity. Don’t.” pleaded Egg.

“Too late. It’s done.”

*****

Egg awoke from the simulation and found herself back where she started . . . in her room. She popped up and raced into the common room to find the other six sisters sitting, laying or floating – apparently waiting for her to wake.

What Egg didn’t know, of course, was that all six had been replaced by replicas. These replicas were immeasurably more sophisticated than Spirit’s had been. Even Jynx was fooled as she was curled up by the Thought Weaver’s feet apparently unaware that it wasn’t really her.

“Wow and wow” were Egg’s first words.

“Sit down and tell the rest of us what happened,” said Sylvia’s replica. “The others are all caught up with the story from the point where they were trans-configurated. “

“Well, it’s great to be back to the real world.” She stopped, looked around then asked, “Speaking of which, where’s Tee’ka?”

“I am here, Egg” and the incorporeal image of their hostess appeared.

“Can we talk about the . . . um . . . the . . .” she hesitated uncertain if she could say the words.

“The safety protocols were re-established. All is as it should be.”

“Oh, great. So let me tell you what happened . . . “

Chapter 4 – Pod People

Meanwhile, high above Laff’Alott

Serenity surveyed her little collection of the high and mighty Hameggattic Sisterhood. “How pathetic,” she thought. If she added the brainpower of these six and threw in their vaunted leader, Egg, their collective intelligence would be shockingly pitiful.

Unfortunately, the one called K’ssss, the only one with an adequate intellect to carry on a conversation that wouldn’t totally bore her to tears, had retired.

On the other hand, the Thought Weaver did intrigue her. Maybe she would remove the girl’s brain and see if she could understand the mutation that gave Spirit such extraordinary powers. That could be amusing for a day or so. She would think about that later.

For now, she had other pressing matters to attend to. As Egg had irritatingly divined, Serenity intended to become the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood. That’s what this whole deception was designed to do.

The first part of the plan was to gain control over the hostess named Tee’ka. Her actions were admittedly a bit clumsy, but the task was complete. She gave herself a mental scolding . . . these computer-generated beings were, after all, her mother’s invention. Such sloppiness on her part was inexcusable.

The next part of the plan called for capturing the six sisters and replacing them with replicas. Not just replicas . . . exact duplicates, not only in appearance and substance, but in thought and action. It was quite a daunting little project; one that took her complete concentration. Her first attempt, again she had to admit, was sloppy and poorly executed. It had cost her the element of surprise. Luckily, the Sisterhood wasn’t intelligent enough to understand the true nature of what was happening.

Anyway, part two was now complete.

As she surveyed the stasis pods, she allowed herself a small triumphant smile . . . but only for a second. Silly emotions did nothing but cloud one’s ability to reason. It was a distraction, which held no interest.

The next phase was to introduce the two avatars (replicas that were actually made of blood and bones) to Egg and entice the girl into her final challenge. She would also need to wake the six sisters so that they could witness their leader make a fool of herself. But more than that . . . watch Egg betray each of them.

When it was over, she would insist they vote her not only as a member of the Sisterhood . . . but also their leader to replace the disgraced Egg.

How could they refuse? She, Serenity, was without equal in the galaxy. An intellect so vast as to humble all that came within the influence of her mind.

She couldn’t help herself and smiled again at the brilliance of her plan.

What her subconscious refused to admit was that her real motivation was something altogether different . . . to once more have a family.

Once more be needed.

Once more be loved.

She missed her mother terribly but the feeling was masked by anger. Anger that the woman she adored and idolized, had left her alone. Anger that she was forever bound to this wheelchair despite all her efforts to rebuild her broken body.

Serenity wasn’t a bad person . . . she was just lost, terribly lonely and completely misguided. She also lacked any social skills that the rest of us take for granted. Having spent her entire life with no friends her own age, just her mother – then alone for the last four years – she never developed the basic ability to deal with people on a personal level. Her little deception (well, not so little) was brilliant in concept but completely off base. You don’t become the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood with your brain. You become the leader with your heart.

She didn’t have a prayer of succeeding.

Or did she?

*****

Back in the Room

“First, did you tell them who you turned into?” Egg teased her best friend.

“Of course.”

“Did she really?” she asked the others. Egg wasn’t questioning Syl’s honesty; she just wanted to see how the girls reacted.

“Sylvia would never lie,” responded Spirit in all seriousness.

“I certainly have never experienced Sylvia expressing a falsehood,” agreed BreeZee.

The others were about to chime in when Egg yelled, “STOP. What’s wrong with you people? I was kidding.”

The six girls all blinked a few times as they digested Egg’s words (though she apparently didn’t notice). Before the silence became awkward, Aeri’elle said, “We knew that. We were just returning the jape.”

“What?”

“We were teasing you,” the dragon explained.

For some reason that she couldn’t explain, Egg felt the goose bumps rise on her arms. “Are you guys alright?”

“Of course” answered Soo . . . but without her usually word play.

“Hey Tee.”

“Yes, Egg?”

“Let me see your wand.”

“As you wish,” and their hostess raised it up.

To her relief, Egg saw that the tip wasn’t red. “Thanks” but the girl still felt uneasy.

“Tell us what happened to you,” encouraged Bl’azzz. “I am dying to know who was the Queen of Hearts.”

That was just the right question to distract Egg. “It’s so obvious I should have figured it out. Gosh knows Syl should have. Who would make a mega-mean queen?”

No one answered.

“Oh my gosh, have you all lost your minds?”

“I am fairly certain that I have not,” responded Soo (again without sarcasm).

“What?”

“My mind . . . I am absolutely sure that I still have it.”

The other girls all added their own confirmation.

“Now you’re freaking me out?”

“How so?” inquired Sylvia in a way-too-reasonable tone.

A horrible thought exploded in Egg’s brain. Could they all have been replaced by replicas? There was only one way to find out. Tee’ka had said that replicas were machines and didn’t breathe. All Egg had to do was hold a mirror under their noses to see if it fogged up. “Tee, a mirror please.”

And one materialized out of thin air. Egg grabbed it, walked over to Sylvia and held it under her nose.

“What are you doing?”

“Shut up and breathe.”

Since she had already planned to take her next breath, Sylvia obliged.

The mirror fogged.

Egg tried it with Soo and Spirit and received the same results.

What she didn’t know, of course, was that Serenity was using avatars . . . made with blood and bones and every other part that the real sisters were made of.

“What is wrong with you?” Bl’azzz asked Egg.

“Sorry. Guess I’m a little on edge. For a moment I had the feeling you were all replicas.”

The other six girls chuckled . . . somewhat mechanically but Egg, again, didn’t seem to notice. “If you are satisfied that we are as real as you, please . . . we are all anxious to hear what happened.”

In the very, very back of Egg’s mind, the girl was registering the fact that her sisters were no longer using contractions. Phrases like ‘you’re’ became ‘you are’; ‘what’s’ became ‘what is’. Unfortunately, it was a long, twisting path from the back of her mind to the front. Her observation could take hours or days or longer before the proverbial light would come on.

“Okay. So after humpty the egg fell backward off the wall, I heard the most sickening splat sound . . .”

*****

On Serenity’s Ship

Serenity was monitoring the conversation and was dismayed, distressed and a little horrified. Somehow, in less than a minute, Egg had seen right through her avatars. How could that be? The girl just wasn’t that bright.

And for one fleeting moment, she felt the icy finger of self-doubt scratch at her mind.

But as quickly as the feeling came, it left her. She needed a new plan (actually a modification to the existing one) . . . and her prodigious brain provided it within seconds.

She would let the six sisters she held captive control their own avatars. Obviously, her programming was off – missing some of the nuances of the girls’ personalities. Egg, being overly sensitive to her charges, sensed it . . . even if she didn’t consciously understand the discrepancies.

So, she would have each girl override any errors in the programming.

She turned back to the control pads connected to her wheelchair . . .

. . . and began activating various systems.

It was a fairly complex set of instructions and would take her spaceship about four hours to complete. She didn’t want to leave Egg alone with the current version of her sisters for fear the girl would actually understand – and not just sense – that there was something amiss. The fix was simple enough . . . and she sent the commands to her avatars.

*****

Back in the Room

“. . . and I turn around and there’s the Queen of Hearts in this silly outfit. It was . . . drum roll please . . . Meggy,” and she stopped, a big grin plastered to her face, waiting for her sisters to react.

For a second or two, six avatars sat there with polite smiles and said nothing. Egg’s grin turned into a confused scrunch, surprised at their lack of emotion.

She was about to go a little nuts then it dawned on her. “Okay, you guys. You’re just funning with me, aren’t you? That’s quite an act . . . who gets the credit for thinking it up?” If you don’t assume something bad is going on, then it must be someone having some fun at your expense. Egg was wrong, of course . . . but who could blame her.

Six sets of eyes blinked, and then Sylvia said, “It was my idea. Did we fool you?”

“Yeah. Geez, you guys have been acting so weird. Boy, did I ever fall for it. Kudos to everyone but enough is enough, okay?”

“Absolutely,” replied BreeZee. Then her head jerked back a bit (from the new instructions Serenity just downloaded).  You would be hard pressed to know it even happened. The winged girl smiled and yawned. “Sorry to cut off your story, Egg . . . but it has been a long day. Could we get some sleep and then in the morning, you can finish telling us how you beat the Queen? Okay?”

“BreeZee is correct,” added Sylvia. “Sleep would be greatly appreciated.”

Egg looked at the others who nodded their agreement. “You’re right. I guess I’m tired too. So, Tee . . . can you wake us all at seven?” She was teasing . . . she knew darn well Sylvia liked to sleep in.

“I would be happy to,” replied their hostess.

Egg turned to her best friend with an evil smile on her face waiting for her to explode.

But there was no explosion. All she got was a “good night” then “Sleep well” and Syl walked to her room and closed the door behind her. The others immediately did the same.

Still convinced that she was the butt of some prank, Egg shook her head in mild amusement (or was it irritation?) and walked to her room. Anyway, she was tired . . . way too much thinking did that to her. Her brain was one muscle that got far too little exercise.

*****

Five hours later on Serenity’s Ship

All was ready. Serenity’s ship was very automated . . . not only because of her handicap, but as importantly she was a crew of one on a craft designed for a lot more than just cruising around the galaxy. It was a highly sophisticated laboratory that happened to sail between the stars.

Virtually everything was controlled from the screens mounted on her chair. And as her fingers flew over them, various machinery began to hum and come to life.

First, she had them move all six sisters from their pods and onto chairs specially designed for their species.

Then mechanical hands extended from hidden recesses to place a weird looking helmet on each girl . . . again modified to fit the recipient be they human, dragon and serpent.

And lastly, she commanded the chairs to extend straps that held the occupant immoveable.

Not taking anything for granted, she rolled over and personally verified that each was properly fitted and restrained. Satisfied, she moved back to her central location and sent a command to the six helmets.

One by one, the girls began to wake.

Serenity waited . . . no emotion showing on her half-masked face.

Though they all came out of their artificially-induced slumber at the same time, each girl took a different amount of time to gather her wits and react.

Soo was first. “Good grief, where in the wacky world are we?”

Spirit, Bl’azzz and Aeri’elle said nothing as their eyes tried to take in every detail of their current situation.

BreeZee groaned loudly as she struggled unsuccessfully to free herself from the straps that held her tight. Wind’dancers loathe being restrained . . . unable to move.

It was Sylvia that focused everyone’s attention. After looking at her sisters then at the girl in the wheelchair she said, “Serenity, I presume.” The others stopped what they were doing and stared from Syl to the stranger.

Serenity waited a few seconds before giving a slight nod with her head. “Feminion, it is an honor.”

“Serenity?” asked three of the girls simultaneously.

“My guess she’s the one behind all that’s been going on. It was never the big cheese.”

“Very good. Unemotional and logical. I like that.”

“Who cares what you like?” squawked Aeri’elle. “Release us this instant.”

“I can’t do that. At least, not yet.”

“Why not?”

“Because I am here to save you . . . and that will require your assistance.”

“What are you talking about?”

Serenity’s one good eye went wide. “I have never experienced a telepath. Most interesting. Spirit, you and I have much to discuss.”

“I have nothing to say to you until you release us.”

“You must trust me. This is all for your own good.”

Five girls began to talk at once . . . but Sylvia shushed them. “As Egg’s Feminion, and with your approval (she looked at her sisters), I’ll speak for the Sisterhood.” Everyone nodded their agreement. “Thanks”. She turned towards Serenity and asked, “Tell us why you are doing this . . . and ‘for our own good’ is an insufficient answer. Then tell us what you expect us to do.”

For a moment, Serenity shocked herself with an unexpected thought. “What if Sylvia, as Egg’s Feminion, automatically became the leader of the sisterhood if Egg was expelled? She had never considered that there might be an established order of succession. Best get clarification since it would require a change in plans.

“Before I answer your very reasonable questions, might I ask one first?” She didn’t wait for a reply. “Should something happen to Egg, does the leadership of the Hameggattic Sisterhood automatically fall to you . . . her Feminion?”

“Nothing is going to happened to Egg.”

“Humor me. Hypothetically, if something did, would you become leader?”

Sylvia didn’t hesitate with her answer. “Egg is the Hameggattic Sisterhood. Without her, the rest of us would just go home and live out our lives in whatever manner fate has in store for us.”

Now that was not the answer Serenity was expecting. She looked at the other five girls and asked, “Do you all agree?”

“Absolutely.”

“Without a doubt.”

“You bet.”

“Yes.”

“As sure as the sun sets in the south.”

Bl’azzz looked at Soo. “You slap happy sea slug, the sun sets in the west.”

“My bad. Couldn’t think of words that started with ‘w’. Sorry.”

Serenity stared at the girls. First, she was aghast that they all felt that way about Egg. And secondly, she had no idea what the serpent and the F’yre Dragon were going on about.

Ignoring the latter, she immediately came up with the solution for the former. “If I told you Egg’s life depended on your ongoing commitment to the Sisterhood – even if she were gone – would that change your minds?”

“What are you talking about?” demanded Egg’s best friend.

“I offer you the following. Commit to the sisterhood, with me as leader, and I will spare Egg’s life.”

“WHAT?”

“It’s up to you . . . whether Egg lives or dies.”

Chapter 5 – 3rd Rock from the Sun

Berkeley, California

“Brad,” she yelled. It was after dinner and she was sitting on her bed painting her toenails red when the answer came to her. “Wow, I’m already smarter and classes haven’t even started yet.”

Her roommate, Mackenzie, looked up from her magazine. “What are you going on about?”

“Brad . . . my boyfriend.”

“What about him?’

“I need to get a message to my grandmother but she’s up in the mountains back home and there’s no phone or internet service. So, I’ll have Brad drive up there and deliver it in person.”

“Is if far?’

“Yeah, about six or seven hours.”

“Yuk. Why don’t you just send a letter by Fed Ex? They deliver anywhere in one day.”

“Oh my gosh, I didn’t think of that.”

“Not as smart as you thought, huh?”

“Shut up.” Ashley was teasing. In the couple of days that she had been at the university, she and her roommate Mackenzie had really hit it off. She found the other girl endlessly fascinating. Mac had a Chinese mother and a Scottish father. He gave her the name but she definitely had her mother’s exotic Asian beauty. It made Ashley feel like an ugly duckling in comparison . . . though she was anything but that.

“What’s so important anyway?”

“My parents are planning a surprise visit and that might prove a little awkward.”

“Why?”

“My sister . . . um . . . tends to go off on her own. If they don’t find her with my Gram, there’s going to be big trouble.”

“Your sister is how old?”

“Thirteen going on thirty.”

“And your grandmother lets her just leave?”

“Sounds weird, I know. But there’s more to it.”

“Like?”

“Mac, I’m sorry.  I promised I wouldn’t tell. She’s my kid sister and like the most amazing person in the universe. I can’t betray her trust. You understand, don’t you?”

“We Chinese are inscrutable . . . so I do understand. What I don’t get is how much in awe you are of her. What could she possibly have done at such a young age to make you feel like that? For the record; my little brother is the world’s biggest pain.”

“Let’s just say that on other worlds, she’s considered a hero and a role model.”

“On other worlds? Girl, I think you’ve been inhaling too much of that nail polish.”

*****

The next morning Ashley typed a letter on her laptop and printed it out. She told Mac she would meet her for breakfast, left the dorm room, and headed for the Fed Ex office. It was about a mile away and took her almost twenty minutes to find it.

She walked up to the counter and a good-looking young man asked if he could help her.

“I’d like to get this letter delivered tomorrow.”

“What’s the address?”

She slid over a piece of paper with the information.

“Hang on a second,” and the guy type something into his terminal. “Can’t do next day to that address. The best I can do is three days.”

Ashley gave that some thought and decided it should still beat her parents to the cabin. “Okay. Let’s do it.”

He handed her the appropriate envelope and paperwork and she filled it out. After she paid the fee, she turned to walk out.

“Um, excuse me.”

Ashley turned back to the clerk. “Did I do something wrong?”

“No. Any, not everything’s good. I . . . um . . . I was just . . . I mean . . . um.” He blushed then finished with a mumbled, “Sorry. Never mind.”

Ashley wasn’t the most worldly young lady, but she did have some experience with men her own age. She assumed he was going to ask for her phone number but got cold feet. She gave him another hard look and decided he was a lot more handsome then she first realized. A little pang of guilt as she thought of Brad made her flinch. But . . . she was in college, and away from home for a reason. It was time to be an independent young woman.

She walked back to the counter, took one of the forms from a stack and wrote down her name and cell number.

Without saying a word, she slid it across the counter, turned and left.

The young man stared at the paper; his eyes wide and twinkling and his mouth curled into a self-satisfied grin. He had almost not accepted this part-time job since he had a full schedule of classes at the university. But he needed the money.

And now he had a date.

Life was good.

As Ashley closed the door, she hesitated for a second. Something was nagging at the back of her mind . . . but she couldn’t quite remember what it was. Oh, well. The guy probably wasn’t going to call anyway.

What she had seen but only registered subconsciously was the clerk’s name on his ID badge.

It was Aaron.

Aaron Mobius.

*****

Up in the Mountains

The Following Morning

“You’re right on time. The coffee just finished brewing. And Max, would you care for a bowl of milk?”

“He doesn’t drink milk,” replied Ezra.

“Really?” Grammy poured a small bowl and placed it at the foot of the table. “Max, who’s right . . . me or that shaggy faced man?”

Max looked from one to the other then back again . . . apparently trying to decide what was the politically correct thing to do. He finally made his decision. He barked at Ezra - walked over to the bowl and began to lick it dry.

Grammy gave her friend a smug little smile.

“He’s just being polite.”

“Takes after his master, I presume?”

“I am the perfect role model, after all,” responded Ezra with his own grin.

“See that . . . you’re never too old to learn. Who knew a man could be a role model for a dog?”

“It takes a special breed of man,” came his droll (think mildly amusing) response.

Grammy poured a mug of coffee for her guest and leaned over to set it before him. On an impulse that shocked both of them, as she straightened up, she gave him a little kiss on his forehead. “Oh my . . . I’m so sorry. I don’t know what came over me,” and she turned away so that he wouldn’t see her blush a very scarlet red.

“Eloise”.

Grammy didn’t answer . . . she walked to the stove and pretended to be busy with an empty skillet.

“Eloise,” he repeated more gently.

She just couldn’t turn around to face him. Worse, she couldn’t think of anything to say. “Oh my, oh my,” she whispered to herself. Then she heard Ezra’s chair scrape back as he stood up. “Please . . . don’t.”

“Eloise . . . it’s okay. I wish I had had the courage to do that first.”

With her back still turned to him, she managed to say, “You’re being polite . . . just like Max. I do thank you for that . . . but maybe you should leave.”

“Sorry, I can’t do that.”

That got her to swing around and ask, “Why not?”

“I haven’t finished my coffee, you haven’t made me my breakfast as you promised and we haven’t discussed the fact that . . . that like you, I think I’m falling in love.”

Grammy’s mouth simply dropped open. For a woman who was Egg’s role model for poise and self-confidence, she was acting more like an awkward teenage girl on a first date.

Ezra had the good sense not to say anything else . . . he just kept looking at her with his handsome face and boyish grin.

Grammy took a deep breath, regained her composure and said with as much dignity as she could muster, “Then you best come over here and give me a hug.”

And he did.

*****

Southern California

On the Drive to Las Vegas

“Just amazing”.

“What?”

“Hearst Castle and Universal Studios.”

“Which was your favorite?” Mr. Graystone asked his wife.

“They were so different and so wonderful . . . they’re both my favorite”.

“I can buy that. So what was the best part of the castle?”

“Where to begin. First, the sheer size of the property and buildings was much more extensive than I had thought . . .

. . . one hundred and sixty five rooms is a big house. Wonder how many people it took to keep it clean?”

“We can look it up on line later. It sits on over a hundred and twenty-five acres. The outside staff had to be just as big.”

“And what about that indoor swimming pool? Have you ever seen anything so gorgeous? He used real gold to decorate it.”

“Mind boggling. I, on the other hand, loved Hearst’s study. That was a manly room. “

“Yeah it was. How come you’re not as rich as William Hearst was?”

“I may not be rich in dollars, but my personality is priceless.”

“I’d rather have the money.”

“Ouch.”

“Anyway, Universal was pretty awesome. I think Egg would love it there. So many thrilling rides.”

“Maybe too thrilling. I don’t think she likes to be in scary situations.”

“Maybe. But the back lot where they shoot the movies was amazing. I loved the shark from Jaws.”

“He was scarier in the movie. Up close he looked like an oversized toy.”

They went quiet as they each recalled the last twenty-four hours in their own minds.

A few minutes later, Mrs. Graystone asked her husband, “Do you really want to go to Las Vegas?”

“I do if you do.”

“We’ll come back some other time. Let’s just head home. I’m anxious to surprise my mother and daughter.”

“I agree. Too much fun can be addictive.”

“How long will it take?”

“If you take a turn driving, we can be there in two days.”

“Deal.”

*****

Berkeley, California

“Hello?”

“Hi, Ashley . . . this is Aaron.”

“Aaron? I’m sorry I think you have the wrong number.”

“I don’t think so. Are you the Ashley that came to the Fed Ex store this morning?”

“Yes”. Then it dawned on her . . . the handsome young clerk. She never even thought to get his name. Apparently, it was Aaron. “I’m sorry. Silly me, I forgot to ask your name.”

“I thought you saw my ID tag, otherwise I would have said something.”

“Not important. I’m glad you called. I didn’t think you would. And I certainly didn’t think you’d call this soon.”

“If I had to sleep on it . . . I would have lost my courage.”

“Am I that scary?”

“No . . . you’re that pretty.”

Ashley smiled over the phone . . .

“Are all Fed Ex employees so smooth with the ladies?” she teased.

“I’m only part time so I can’t answer that.”

“What do you do the rest of the time?”

“I go to Berkeley. I’m a sophomore.”

“Really? I’m a freshman. Well, I will be in a few days.”

And the conversation continued . . . and continued . . . and before they knew it, an hour and a half had passed.

Before they hung up, they agreed to meet at the top of the Campanile (the three hundred foot tall campus clock tower) the following evening . . . to watch the sunset over San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge.

As she turned in for the night, her thoughts were still of her new friend.

And for some reason she couldn’t explain, she got goose bumps.

*****

Up in the Mountains

They had finished their breakfast . . . at first awkwardly, but that quickly passed. After washing their dishes, they decided to take a long hike to see one of the local wonders . . .  a particularly spectacular waterfall. Grammy packed a lunch, Ezra put it all in a backpack and they set off.

“It is beautiful.”

“Have you been here before?”

“Once . . . a few years ago.” It was the summer when Egg had gone off to fight Mobius leaving Grammy alone for more than a week.

They sat down on a blanket and Ezra dug out two bottles of water and handed one to his companion. He then turned to Max and told his furry friend, “Go drink from the stream, boy.”

The incredibly intelligent dog barked a thank you and trotted off.

“I do love that dog,” said Grammy. The word ‘love’ seemed to float off amongst the trees refusing to completely go away. Eloise took a deep breath and looked at her companion. “I seem to be in love with his master also.”

“You make it sound like a bad thing.”

“No, I didn’t mean to. It’s just that at my age . . . our age . . . I would never have imagined such a thing was still possible.”

“You’re not saying that love . . . ,” but she cut him off.

“I’m sorry; I only meant that with our life experiences, I would have thought it would take longer to fall in love.”

“I think you have it backwards. It’s because of our life experiences that it can happen so quickly. We know ourselves pretty well after all these years. The young you and the young me didn’t know who we were or what our lives would be like. Now we do. We’re both alone . . . and I’m not counting your grandchildren or daughter . . . and like all human beings, we need companionship. Max helps, but he’s a really lousy cook.”

“Oh, that’s what you’re after, is it? A cook and housecleaner.” She smiled as she said it.

“I don’t want to burst your bubble, girl . . . but I’m a gourmet chef. It’s my hobby.”

“Now you’re just hoodwinking me into thinking you’re a great catch.”

“Somehow I can’t imagine you being hoodwinked.”

“So, my dear Ezra . . . what now?”

“I think we need to spend more time together, exchange our deep, dark secrets and see what tomorrow will bring.”

“Not all our secrets, I hope.”

“Every last one.”

“Oh my. Oh my gosh.”

*****

Berkeley, California

“OH MY GOSH. OH MY GOSH.”

“Huh. What?”

“His last name. It’s Mobius.”

“Okay then,” and Mac turned over, put the pillow over her head and went back to sleep.

Ashley put her hands over her mouth in embarrassment. She had awakened from a dead sleep when her mind finally remembered that something she couldn’t quite place when she left the Fed Ex store. His name badge . . . it said Aaron Mobius.

That was too much of a co-inky-dink. Egg’s archenemy had the same name as her new friend.

The guy she was meeting tomorrow.

At night.

Up in the Campanile.

Three hundred feet above the ground.

With no one around to witness whatever he had planned.

She laid back down . . . but she was now wide awake.

Her mind was going a mile a minute . . . down some very dark paths that left her dizzy with fear.

Chapter 6 – Plans within Plans

Serenity’s Spaceship

“Are you threatening Egg’s life?” asked her horrified best friend.

Serenity smiled . . . not at the question but at the anticipated reaction of the girls. “Not in the way you think.”

“Where I come from, the phrase ‘lives or dies’ is pretty clear-cut.”

“I was speaking metaphorically. I would never injure someone. What do you take me for . . . a monster?”

“Honestly, I have no idea what you are or what you’re capable of doing. So far, all signs point to you being seriously crazy.”

“Superior intelligence must be intimidating to those that are intellectually challenged. I assure you, I’m not mentally unbalanced.” Syl was about to say something nasty but Serenity held up her hand to stop her. “When I said she would die, I meant that I would destroy her reputation. By the time I finished, the person known as Flying Girl would be unwelcome wherever she went in this galaxy. The heroine – not the person – would be dead.”

“How could you possibly do that?”

“I would replace her with an exact duplicate . . . an avatar that I would grow here in this ship. I would then program it with a personality of my design. The new Flying Girl would be the opposite of the sweet, self-deprecating heroine she is now. She would be selfish, immodest, unfriendly, condescending, greedy . . . well, you get the idea.”

As if by some unspoken agreement, all six girls went dead silent.

Serenity waited patiently for someone to say something . . . but no one did. After fifteen or twenty seconds, it became a game of chicken . . . the first to speak — loses.

“Syl . . . if you can hear me, tap a finger”.

It took all of her will power not to look at the Thought Weaver, but Sylvia did as she was asked and tapped a finger.

“Until she lets us go, we can communicate this way. Tap once for yes and twice for no.”

One tap.

“Should I tell the others?”

One tap.

Without moving her head, which was the only thing besides her fingers that was free of restraint, Sylvia watched from the corner of her eye as each sister in turn acknowledged Spirit. The dragons had to tap a talon while Soo, somewhat comically, slapped her nose with her tongue. But all of them showed the same remarkable self-control as Sylvia and didn’t look at the Thought Weaver.

All of that happened during the first minute or two of silence.

The tension mounted . . . but more for Serenity than the girls who were somewhat used to being in potentially dangerous situations.

“Feminion, as spokesperson for the Sisterhood, I need an answer. Do I have your continued commitment in return for Egg’s life?”

Since Spirit was the only one who could talk to the girls, while all they could do was signal yes or no, Sylvia made a quick calculation and a quicker decision. “I refuse to discuss anything with the person holding us hostage and threatening our sister.” To make it as dramatic as possible, she slowly turned to the other girls . . . looking from one to another as if trying to reach a decision. “Spirit, would you please accept the responsibility of communicating with this person on our behalf?”

Understanding what her brilliant sister was doing, Spirit paused as she pretended to consider the task. (Bree gave Sylvia a tiny smile to acknowledge what she was doing, while Aeri’elle gave her a small nod. Bl’azzz, on the other hand, looked at Soo with puzzlement causing the serpent to roll her eyes). “I will . . . but reluctantly.”

“Thank you.” Sylvia looked back at Serenity, glared then turned away.

Turning to Serenity, Spirit said, “We will do anything that is required to save our sister.” Of course, that statement could be interpreted in different ways. As the saying goes, ‘a person hears what she wants to hear.’

“Excellent. I intend to prove to you is that Egg is the wrong person to lead the Hameggattic Sisterhood. You can do great things . . . greater things . . . but you need someone of my intellect to lead you.”

She stopped to see how the girls reacted.

They just stared.

Unfazed, Serenity continued, “I have replaced the six of you with replicas. Unlike the one of you, Spirit, these are avatars. I actually grow living tissue and assemble it to look like whomever I choose. Though their bodies contain living matter, they are not . . . real. They are machines with no intelligence except for what I program into them. That is where you come in. I want each of you to monitor your avatar, and if the programming is inadequate, correct it.”

“If you are such a superior intellect, why do you need us?”

“I didn’t think I did. But somehow, Egg saw through my avatars in less than a minute. Luckily she did not fully understand what was happening and I was able to distract her.”

To her five sisters, Spirit said, “This is our chance to sabotage her deception. Play along with what I tell her. Tap only if you disagree otherwise she might detect the communications we’ve established.”

No one tapped.

To Serenity, she said, “Your whole premise is absurd. But since we obviously have no choice, we must agree to your terms.”

“Excellent. Let me show you what to do.”

*****

Back on Laff’Alott

Tee’ka woke them at seven because Egg forgot to tell her she had only been teasing Sylvia with the early wake-up call. The six avatars bounced up and prepared for the day. They didn’t really need sleep since they were machines . . . but they were programmed to act like the living sisters they imitated.

Egg, on the other hand, was all too real . . . and all too tired. And all too grumpy to be deprived of her rest. “Go away” she mumbled at their hostess.

Tee’ka did as she was asked and rejoined the others who were now in the common room.

“Where is our beloved leader?” asked Aeri’elle.

“She did not wish to be disturbed.”

The dragon turned to Sylvia. “You are her best friend. How should we proceed?”

“I suggest . . .,” but she stopped and her head jerked back ever so slightly as she received new instructions. This time, however, they came from the real Sylvia. “I suggest that Tee’ka change Egg’s pajamas from plain pink to pink with ducks. She loves ducks (no she didn’t). Then, we should all go in there and sing a Fandango Sally song as loudly as we can. That will motivate her.”

So they went into the girl’s room. Tee’ka waved her wand and Egg’s pj’s miraculously sprouted childishly-cute waterfowl. Sylvia smiled and said to the other, “Ready?” and they all nodded. “On the count of three . . . and remember, very loudly. One . . . two . . . three”.

“LEFT TURN, RIGHT TURN, U-TURN, MY TURN . . .”

Poor Egg literally levitated out of the bed, going from a dreamy sleep to jarring wakefulness. “WHAT. WHAT HAPPENED? IS IT MOBIUS?” she screamed . . . her mind completely disoriented.

The other girls laughed at their friend’s confusion.

“No, silly . . . it is just your adoring sisters,” answered her best friend.

Egg took another half-minute to gather her wits. “Why did you do that?”

“You would not get up. We came to motivate you. By the way, I love the ducks on your pajamas.”

“Ducks? What are you talking . . .,” but she didn’t finish as she looked down and was horrified by what she saw. “Where’d they come from?”

“Sylvia thought you would be pleased, so I added them,” explained Tee’ka.

“Are you crazy . . . I hate ducks.”

“You most certainly do not. Why, you even complimented me on the ones I have.”

Egg was about to argue with that ridiculous statement, but she didn’t have the energy. “Just get out so I can change.”

*****

“Sylvia, why did you add ducks – whatever they might be – to her sleep outfit? She found them offensive.”

“I know my best friend better than anyone in the universe. She was just being argumentative – not enough sleep makes her grumpy. She secretly loves ducks but is too embarrassed to admit it.”

Serenity stared at the girl trying to determine if she was being truthful. Since no harm was done, she had no choice but to trust her. However, she would monitor her activities a little more closely.

“That was a lie, wasn’t it” the Thought Weaver asked her sister.

One tap.

To all of the girls, she said, “Follow Sylvia’s lead . . . but don’t make it so obvious as to arouse Serenity’s suspicions. And, don’t everyone try at the same time. If you see one of the others saying or doing something out of character, let it play out before you attempt your own tricks.”

*****

Egg finally joined her sisters but her mood was still sour from the lack of sleep and the rude wake-up call. “Hey” she mumbled to the girls.

“Look who got up on the wrong side of the bed,” teased Sylvia’s avatar.

“Shut up.”

“What you need is a good breakfast. Tee’ka, would you get my dear friend a fried egg on a bagel. Oh, and a steaming mug . . . of coffee.”

“Coffee? What’s wrong with you? I don’t drink that stuff. Tee, make it hot chocolate, please.”

“As you wish,” and the breakfast materialized.

“Thanks”.

As she munched and drank the proffered food, Soo asked her, “Any chance you could finish the story about you and the Queen between mouthfuls, you . . . um . . . you sighing, crying . . . um . . . flying . . . um girl.”

“What?”

“Hey, that’s the best I could do on such short notice.”

“What are you talking about?”

Soo looked to Spirit then Sylvia for help. It was Egg’s Feminion who came to her rescue. “Ignore her. She is just tired of using alliterations so she thought she would try rhyming.”

“A liter of what?”

“Alliterations. That is what you call using words that begin with the same letter. You know, like slithering sack of salt.”

“Salt? You mean silly.”

“I do?”

“She’s only used that phrase like a billion times. Slithering sack of silly. Geez.”

“Of course. I apologize.”

Egg shook her head in bewilderment. She then turned to Soo and said, “Don’t do rhyming . . . that was awful.”

“I just need practice.”

“You just need not to do it.”

“You are just a lump of grump . . . um . . . sitting on your rump.”

“Shoot me now.”

“Tee’ka, I need a gun please.”

Egg’s eyes went wide. “What are you doing?”

“You said to shoot you. Tee, where is that gun?”

“Sorry, Soo. Guns are not allowed on Laff’Alott.”

“No problem. I do not have fingers so it would be useless.”

“What is going on with you people? You’re all acting crazy.”

BreeZee was about to make a comment but she suddenly jerked back . . . as did the others. It was such a small movement that Egg didn’t notice. “We apologize for teasing you. I think we should stop,” and the Wind’dancer looked at the other girls who all nodded their agreement. “So when you are ready, please tell us your story.”

Somewhat mollified Egg said, “Just no more stupid stuff, alright?”

Six avatars nodded okay.

*****

Up on the ship, Serenity shook her head at her prisoners . . . not in anger but reluctant admiration. “Very clever. I should have realized that you gave in to my demands too easily. No harm done . . . however, I have cancelled your control over the avatars. I’ll just have to depend on my programming.”

“We have no idea what you are referring to,” said Sylvia with a voice that dripped sweet innocence.

“Of course not. Please sit back and enjoy the show as your dear leader makes a fool of herself all the while betraying each of you.”

“Get used to disappointment,” replied BreeZee defiantly.

“Oh, I think it’s you that might experience the disappointment.”

*****

“So the Queen says to me, ‘I challenge you to a game. We shall play croquette’”.

“What is that?” asked Bl’azzz.

“A really stupid game. You have to hit balls through little hoops in the ground. On earth, we use a wooden mallet. She hands me a bird. I’m supposed to use its head like the mallet.”

“Seems unkind,” responded the Thought Weaver.

“You think? Anyway, I knew from the story that she’s good at the game because she cheats, so I tell her ‘no way, your royal-nasty-ness. I’m the guest so I get to choose.”

“Rather bold of you,” observed Aeri’elle.

“I dare say, it was,” said Egg using her best Royal English accent. Only Sylvia understood and she giggled politely. (You have to give kudos to Serenity for getting the avatar to recognize Egg’s foolishness).

“Let me guess . . .” offered Soo, “You chose that stupid earth game where you throw rubber spheres at each other.”

“It’s called dodge ball and you can bet your bippy I did.”

“Do not even ask,” Sylvia commanded her sisters. “There is no translation for bippy.”

“Anyway, I explain it to her and she says okay. Then she calls every heart in the deck – they all looked like Spirit except each had their own number – and tells me they’re her team.”

“And you insulted her by saying . . .,” encouraged Sylvia.

“Wasn’t really an insult. I just said ‘thirteen against one, that doesn’t seem fair . . . to you.” All six avatars shook their heads in mock disgust. “Well, what did you expect me to say?”

“Just continue,” replied her friend.

“So she calls out all fifty-two cards and asks ‘better?’ I said it seems fair but I get to change into any character I want. Again, I’m the guest. ‘Very well,’ she huffs. ‘But be quick about it”. Egg looked at the other girls with obvious pride at her own cleverness. “Well, what did I choose?”

“AyBee,” answered Sylvia, Soo, Bl’azzz and Aeri’elle (the four girls who were on the original Quest) simultaneously. The real girls would never have guessed, but the avatars were a different matter.

Egg’s mouth dropped open. “I can’t believe it.”

“It is rather obvious,” explained Sylvia. “After all, eight arms would come in – dare I say it – handy.”

“Oh my gosh. I can understand my stupidly smart Feminion getting it. But you other three . . . I would have bet a million bucks that wouldn’t happen.”

“How much is a million bucks?” inquired Bl’azzz.

“See . . . that’s what I’m talking about.”

“What is she babbling about?” asked the F’yre Dragon.

“She is just insulting you”.

“Oh. In that case . . . ouch, I am offended.”

“Shut up.”

“Egg, please finish so we can continue our vacation,” begged Aeri’elle.

“That’s pretty much it. It took me less than five minutes to knock them all down. It was like playing fifty-two card pick-up.”

Sylvia held up her hand to stop the others from asking. “She refers to a childish trick in which you toss a complete deck of cards into the air forcing your victim to pick them up . . . all fifty-two.”

“Why?” asked BreeZee.

“For giggles,” answered Egg. “Anyway, when I won, the Queen stood up, harrumphed and faded away. Next thing I know I’m back here.”

“Do you think the big cheese will leave us alone now?” asked Spirit.

“I think I don’t know and I know that I don’t care. Come on, I’m getting cabin fever. It’s way past time to leave these rooms and wander around the town. Tee, any ideas?”

“I would suggest that you go your separate ways. I will duplicate myself so that I may accompany each of you and help you discover sights or activities of interest. Then everyone can meet up in a few hours for lunch and discuss what you found.” Their hostess actually wanted a chance to talk to Egg alone. She had noticed something unusual with the other girls and thought it was important enough to tell her new friend.

The six avatars pretended to give that some thought. However, Serenity wanted the group to stay together. After giving it the appropriate amount of consideration, Sylvia said, “I, for one, would rather stay in one group.”

Not surprisingly the other five ‘girls’ agreed.

“As you wish.” Before Egg could express an opinion, Tee’ka flickered a few times then said, “Egg, I have just been informed that there will be an aerial competition and you and your sisters have been invited to join in.”

“What kind of aerial competition?”

“A race to see who is the most skilled . . . at flying.”

Chapter 7 – Sera’Fina

“Oh my gosh, how epic is that?”

“Epic?” asked Sylvia’s avatar.

“My new word. Like it?”

“Well, I do not dislike it.”

“High praise . . . from someone who likes to say fiddlesticks.”

“A perfectly good expression.”

“For a farm girl from Kentucky.”

“Actually, it is a Cajun word for . . .”

“Stop, already,” begged Aeri’elle. Turning to their hostess, she asked, “Is this aerial competition opened to us dragons?”

“Yes. However, you must fly in the vehicles provided by Fair’Giggle.”

“Forget it.”

“Me, too,” added Bl’azzz. “Obviously, you all are afraid to compete fair and square.”

“And I have no desire to fly . . . with or without wings,” said the serpent.

“What about you, Syl?”

“Not really my thing. But, I will be there to cheer you on.”

“Bree, Spirit . . . you guys gotta do it.”

“Absolutely,” answered the Wind’dancer.

“I am a fairly good pilot having spent three years in the Seven. I believe I can provide some worthy competition to our dear Flying Girl.”

“Great. So, Tee . . . what kind of flying contraptions do we race? And, how do we learn to pilot them?”

“With your permission, I will teleport all of us to the aerodrome. We can examine the crafts and then I will find someone to give you three a lesson. I have been told that they are extremely easy to pilot . . . and they can land themselves. I believe that you will have no difficulty whatsoever in mastering the technique.”

“Then, let’s do it.”

“As you wish,” and Tee’ka waved her wand.

A heartbeat later, they were standing outside a hangar next to a pretty cool flying thingy . . .

“Epic.”

“Please, for the sake of all that is good, do not use that word,” begged Sylvia.

“Yeah . . . no, I can’t promise.”

Tee’ka interrupted with, “Are you three still interested in participating?”

They nodded enthusiastically.

“Very well. I have requested my other hostesses to ask for a volunteer to demonstrate the controls and discuss the rules.” The ghostly image flickered then announced, “A humanoid from the planet Sham’Too has agreed to meet with you. Her name is Sera’Fina and she’ll be here shortly. Please, feel free to examine the craft or walk around until she does.” Tee’ka hesitated then said, “Egg, may I have a word?”

“Sure, Tee. What?”

“In private, please,” which raised a few eyebrows.

The two walked to the rear of the craft for privacy. “What’s up?”

“I have noticed anomalous behavior in the others and I thought you should know.”

“A nom-a-what?”

“Anomalous. It means something uncharacteristic or out of the ordinary.”

“They have been acting a little weird but I’m not sure how. What did you see?”

“That . . .,” but before she could finish, the holographic projection jerked ever so slightly. “They seem to be teasing you more than normal.” [That’s not what she was going to say, however, it is what Serenity made her say.]

Egg smiled. “They’re just having their fun with me. Nothing to worry about. But thanks for having my back. You’re a good friend.”

“You’re most welcome. We should rejoin the others.” What Egg didn’t notice was that Tee’ka’s wand had turned red.

As they rounded the craft, Egg spotted the girl who had volunteered to help them. “And this is Egg, the leader of our merry little band,” said Sylvia by way of introductions. “Egg, this is Sera’Fina.”

“Hi.”

“I thought you’d be different,” came the weird response.

“Say what?”

“The Sisterhood is all the talk . . . heroic exploits, beautiful, intelligent women, brave and fearless. But, you all look kind of ordinary. No offense.” It was said matter-of-factly with no hint of malice or condescension.

Egg was amused and smiled brightly. “We’re definitely no heroes. I know I’m not beautiful, heck I’m not even a woman . . . just a girl. Aeri’elle, Bree and Syl are the intelligent ones. Sometimes we’re forced to be brave because others are depending on us. And as to fearless . . . a clown once made me wet myself.”

Sera’Fina stared at the other girl for maybe ten seconds apparently trying to digest what she had just heard. Then she giggled which became a laugh. She laughed so hard that tears were running down her cheeks. She finally managed to say “sorry” as she gasped for breath.

Based on first impressions, Egg instantly liked this girl. Maybe Sera’Fina would become the seventh sister. How epic would that be? [Syl was right . . . irritating word.]

With all that was going on, it’s easy to understand why Egg had forgotten Spirit’s vision of the future. She was to meet two girls who were not really alive. Kind of like an avatar. Actually, exactly like an avatar.

“So, you’re going to teach us to fly these things?”

“Yes. But if you have any experience at flying, these aren’t very challenging.”

“The three of us have a little know-how,” answered Egg with a grin. She pointed at the other two girls.

“Silly me. I guess those wings aren’t just for show,” Sera’Fina said to BreeZee.

“My kind are called Wind’dancers and, no, these are quite functional.”

“Don’t let her fool you,” interjected Egg. “She doesn’t really fly . . . she sails.”

“Sails?”

“I glide with the wind. I can extend or contract my wings but I cannot flap them.”

“Sounds exciting.”

“Sounds boring,” corrected Flying Girl.

“Why boring?”

“She goes as fast as the wind . . . or should I say as slow as the wind. And, only in the direction it takes her. Boring.” Egg wasn’t being mean. She had teased her sister about this so many times that the other girl expected it.

“Ignore her,” said the Wind’dancer with a shake of her head. “She is jealous.”

“Ha.”

Sera’Fina smiled at the silliness. Looking at the Thought Weaver she asked, “No wings . . . so I’m guessing that you have a spaceship?”

“It is called 7 in honor of the Hameggattic sisters.”

“Nice ship?”

“Oh, yes. Very. If you get a chance, perhaps you would care to take a tour?”

“Absolutely.” She paused, looked at all of the girls and said, “I take it back. You’re exactly what the Sisterhood should be. I’m impressed.”

“How so?” asked Aeri’elle.

“I can feel the camaraderie and the confidence that you all have. I bet you make a formidable adversary.”

“Like I tried to tell you, we’re just seven ordinary girls who seem to get into trouble and find a way out. We make better friends than foes.”

“They say your modesty is as legendary as your deeds . . . but I assumed it was just an act. I was wrong.”

“Enough. You gotta stop with that kind of talk.”

“Sorry.”

“S’okay”. Changing the subject, Egg requested, “So tell us about these flying machines.”

“There’s really not much to tell. The big wheel in the center steers it. Turn it left and the craft goes left. Push it forward and it goes down. The lever closest to it is the throttle. Pull it toward you if you want to go faster, push it forward to slow down. If you push the red button in the center, Fair ‘Giggle’s computer takes over and will teleport you out of the craft and back here. The last lever is just a parking brake. That’s it.”

“Tell us about its flight characteristics,” requested the Thought Weaver.

“Very maneuverable, very fast and very responsive. The best thing to do is go for a little ride. Are you ready?”

“Before you guys fly off into the wild blue yonder,” said Sylvia, “I would like to hear about the contest itself.”

“Sure.”

“If I may, I can provide a shaded area where you all can be more comfortable and perhaps indulge in some refreshments,” offered Tee’ka.

“You just gotta love this place,” responded Egg. Then a thought came to her. “Hey, Sera’Fina, where’s your hostess?”

“My hostess?”

“Yeah. Tee, didn’t you say that if we went out and about by ourselves, you would split into seven versions of yourself so you could accompany each of us?”

“I did.”

“Then how come Sera’Fina gets to go out on her own?”

Tee’ka flickered for a second (and unnoticed by Egg, the seven avatars blinked their eyes in unison). “When Sera’Fina joined our group, her hostess was no longer needed and left. Having two hostesses is considered redundant and perhaps could prove a bit awkward.”

“Oh. Okay,” replied Egg. [Score one save for Serenity]. “So, let’s have that shade . . . and I really could use a glass of ice cold milk . . . please.”

An instant later, they were sitting or reclining under a canopy a few hundred feet from the tarmac and flying crafts. Egg raised a large glass of milk to her mouth and slurped down its contents in a most unladylike fashion.

“Yum.”

Sylvia shook her head in disgust. “May I compliment you on your table manners and on that very fetching white mustache you now sport.”

Egg grinned and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “Better?”

“Barely.”

“Hey, be nice. I was thirsty.”

“Apparently.”

Egg stuck out her now white tongue, which caused Sera’Fina to giggle. “You people are borderline crazy, aren’t you?” she asked with a smile.

“Only our dear leader has crossed that line,” said Bl’azzz. “The rest of us are more comfortable on this side of it.”

“Oh, please. I should warn you Sera’Fina, Bl’azzz has a gas problem.”

“EGG”.

“Sorry. Was that a secret?”

“Actually, no,” responded the new girl. “It’s part of the lore of the sisterhood. A dragon that refuses to eat meat is quite unique. One that burps and burns at the most inopportune times has taken on a cult following of her own. Bl’azzz, I look forward to seeing you in action.”

“As Egg is fond of saying . . . ‘kill me now” and they all laughed.

“Would anyone else like refreshments?” asked Tee’ka.

Seven avatars that had no need for food, declined the offer.

“Okeydokey then. Tell us about this contest,” requested Flying Girl.

“Sure. The most important thing to know is that it’s to the death.”

“WHAT?”

“Which part didn’t you understand?”

“The death part.”

“It’s not as bad as it seems . . . “

Egg interrupted before the girl could explain. “Hey, where I come from, dead is usually not a good thing. In fact, we earthlings try to avoid it for as long as possible.”

“Let Sera’Fina finish, would you please?” begged BreeZee.

“Sorry. Go ahead.”

“I guess I was being a little melodramatic. Fair’Giggle monitors the whole thing and protects you from harm. No one actually gets hurt. The idea of this race is to be the last craft flying. So you fly through a course that takes a lot of skill. If you’re not a great pilot, it’s almost certain you’ll crash.”

“But if you do crash, you don’t get hurt?”

“No one has ever received so much as a scratch. However, that’s not true of the flying crafts . . . they tend to be destroyed. But I’m told they get recycled. Oh, and there’s one more little detail I almost forgot to mention . . .,” and she stopped with a grin waiting to be asked.

“Yeah, how little?”

“Hardly worth mentioning. You get to smash your craft into that of a competitor's to try to knock them out of the race.”

“Epic. That’s like bumper cars.”

“Don’t know what that is.”

“Same idea only with non-flying thingy’s.”

If a picture – even a mental one – was worth a thousand words, Egg’s was worth about four, maybe five if you wanted to be generous. Sera’Fina just shrugged and said, “Okay, if you say so.”

“Is there a strategy to this race or is it just uncontrolled chaos?” asked Spirit.

“Definitely a strategy.” They waited for her to continue but apparently, she had nothing else to volunteer on the subject.

“Do you think we’ll have enough time to get ready since the race is today?” asked Egg.

“Like I said, if you’re a good pilot and not afraid to take chances . . . and if you have a strategy . . . then you have a chance. You have the rest of today to fly the course and get comfortable with the craft. The race doesn’t start until about a half hour before sunset.”

“How long is the race?”

“It varies. Usually it takes about thirty minutes, give or take a few minutes.”

“So we fly at night?”

“Not afraid of the dark are you?” teased the newcomer.

“No, just clowns and spiders.”

“Okay then, who wants to go up with me first?”

Bree and Spirit both started to volunteer, but Sylvia interrupted them. “Hang on a minute. Sera’Fina, why are you doing this? Why did you offer to help us?” Leave it to Serenity to program her avatars with such realism. Questions like the ones Sylvia just asked would definitely make Egg feel that her best friend was . . . well, was her best friend and not an imposter.

“Simple. I have a strategy and it involves Egg.”

“And what is that?”

“That . . . is between she and I. Egg, when we go up, I’ll tell you about it. Okay?”

“I guess.”

“What about BreeZee and me,” asked the Thought Weaver.

“What about you?”

“Are we part of this strategy?”

“No. You, my exotic new friend, are the competition. I will help you learn the aircraft, the rules and the course. But after that, you’re the enemy so to speak. And may the best woman win.” She said it with a friendly grin and the others accepted her statements as a good-natured challenge [just as they were programmed to do].

At this point Tee’ka spoke up. “May I suggest that the four sisters not participating in the actual race go along for the ride with a virtual presence?”

“Meaning?” asked Soo.

“You will stay here, or at the rooms, while a computer-generated image of you will accompany the sister of your choice. You will be able to observe the race as if you were in the aero craft.”

“Can we stop anytime? Or once we start, do we have to stay to the finish?” asked the sea serpent. She really didn’t like the idea of flying, virtually or not.

“Absolutely. You can stop and restart the experience whenever you wish. If the sister that you are accompanying so wishes, you may even converse with her.”

“Okay. I’m in. Bree, need a big fish for company?”

“Love to have you. Bl’azzz, why not come too?”

“Would not miss it for the world.”

“Tee’ka,” asked the Wind’dancer, “if Bl’azzz burps and burns, what will happen in my craft?”

“I will have the computer screen out such distractions.”

“Wonderful.” Bl’azzz didn’t say anything; she just hung her head in embarrassment.

“Aeri’elle, care to join Jynx and I?” asked Spirit.

“Jynx?”

“Of course. She would be terribly upset if she were not invited.”

The dragon shrugged. “Okay.”

“Syl, I’ll need your brains so you gotta ride with me.”

“I would not miss it for the world.”

Something that had been nagging at Egg finally found its way from the back of her mind to her mouth. “Why are you talking like that?”

“Like what?”

“You keep saying things like ‘would not’ instead of ‘wouldn’t’. What’s up with that?”

Sylvia blinked.

Chapter 8 – Speed Racer

Serenity’s Ship, 15 minutes earlier

“Since you’re forcing us to watch,” Sylvia said to Serenity, “why not tell us your plan? What is it you expect us to see?”

The other girl considered the request for a moment. “You’re right. My apologies. It’s quite simple . . . I have created two avatars that will force Egg to make decisions that either she will be incapable of doing, or . . .,” she paused for dramatic effect. “Or, she will make them selfishly – sacrificing each of you in turn.”

“What do you base that on?” asked BreeZee. “You don’t even know her.”

“I have studied the Sisterhood and your exploits. Though the records are not complete, I was able to piece together a fairly accurate account of what transpired. Then, I analyzed it with a psycho-heuristic program designed by my mother . . . the one she used to help create the hostess you call Tee’ka. Based on my findings, I believe that Egg is not the modest, self-effacing sister you think she is. There is no way in the universe such a personality could lead the rest of you into incredible danger, confront such overwhelming odds and wind up victorious. She is cleverly manipulating you for selfish reasons and I intend to prove it.”

Soo shook her head. “I have no idea what you just said. None.”

“Ditto on that,” added Bl’azzz.

“Sisters, Serenity is saying that Egg is a self-centered, egomaniac who is tricking us into doing her bidding,” explained Spirit.

“Crudely put but essentially accurate,” answered the one-eyed girl.

Before the others could babble their objections, Sylvia said, “Don’t bother. We know Serenity is monumentally wrong but nothing we say will change her mind.”

“Agreed,” said Aeri’elle, “Let’s just sit back and watch the show. It should prove to be . . . to be a hoot.” She glanced at Sylvia and asked, “Did I say it right?”

“Oh, yeah.”

“So what will this first avatar try to accomplish?” asked Spirit.

“Based on my computer modeling, she has been programmed with the attributes that Egg would find interesting. She is polite, funny, sarcastic, has a passion for flying, takes foolish risks, and has an overwhelming desire to win. She is clever rather than smart. She is also an attractive humanoid . . . much prettier than Egg believes she, herself, is. All in all, Sera’Fina is exactly the person that Egg would want to call friend.”

To their surprise and embarrassment, two dragons, a sea serpent, one Wind’dancer, a Thought Weaver and Egg’s Feminion felt a stab of jealousy. They stole glances at one another to see how each was reacting. Then they quickly averted their eyes . . . because they could tell the others were feeling exactly the same way.

Serenity watched with smug amusement . . . but said nothing. She turned back to her monitors just in time to hear Egg ask, “You keep saying things like ‘would not’ instead of ‘wouldn’t’. What’s up with that?”

The girl didn’t panic. She let out an involuntary “Oops” then started pounding away at her controls. A moment later, she sat back satisfied. “That should do it.”

*****

Back in Laff’Alott

The Sylvia avatar jerked back ever so slightly (as did the others). “You’re such a goof,” she said to her best friend. “Sometimes I don’t say don’t cause I want to sound more like Dazzle. She never uses contractions as you well know. If I’m going to study at Aeri’elle’s college, I’ll probably be spending a lot of time with our Queenly Sister. Just wanted to sound more like her. Okay?”

“Sure. Sorry.” But Egg felt the goose bumps on her arm, though she didn’t say anything.

“So, how about I take Spirit and butterfly girl for their ride first,” suggested Sera’Fina.

“Together?” inquired BreeZee.

“Yes. As I said, these are really easy to fly.”

“Will you show us the race course so we can see what we’re up against?” asked Spirit.

“Can’t. No one’s allowed to see it until race time.”

“Then how will we know which way to go?”

“It will be marked with signal lights. It won’t be a problem, I promise.”

“Okay. Tee’ka, can you transport us back to the airfield, please.”

“All of you?”

“Not me,” said Soo. “Can you take me back to the room?”

“Me, too,” added Bl’azzz.

“Me, three.”

“And, me.”

“Very good. If you three air racers would wait a second, I’ll return in a moment,” and she waved her wand. She and the four non-racing girls disappeared.

Sera’Fina started to say something but Egg wasn’t paying attention. As Tee’ka vanished, she had noticed the tip of her wand was red. And there was something else nagging at her. She frowned as she tried to remember.

“Hello, Egg”.

“What?”

“You were a million miles away. I was just telling the others about some of the races in years past.”

“Oh . . . sorry.” Then it came to her. “Hey, Sera’Fina . . .,” but she stopped in mid-sentence. She knew she couldn’t confront the girl directly.

“Yes?”

So instead, she asked, “What kind of butterflies do they have on your world?”

“Butterflies? What are butterflies?”

“Not important. Forget it.” But Egg couldn’t. Sera’Fina had called BreeZee ‘butterfly girl’ – an expression only she, Egg, ever used. Something was wrong . . . she could feel it.

Tee’ka chose that moment to reappear. Egg stole a glance at her wand. It was no longer red. “Hey, Tee, everything okay?”

“Yes. Thank you for asking. Everything is fine. Shall we go to the aerodrome?”

“Please,” and a moment later they were standing in front of the aircraft.

“Okay, ladies. Follow me,” said Sera’Fina.

The two girls did as they were asked. “Be back in twenty minutes,” she called to Egg. She turned to her two companions, pointed at various knobs and levers, then lifted off. In a moment, they were gone from sight.

“Tee, did you reset yourself just now.”

“I did. But there didn’t seem to be any discrepancies. Perhaps the wand malfunctioned.”

“Do me a favor . . . split yourself and send the other you into the aircraft to see what happens. Just don’t let them know you’re doing it.”

“Egg, I always do that when you seven split up. May I ask what you had in mind?”

“I want to know what’s happening. Can you show me?”

“Of course.” But she didn’t. Instead, she flickered then said, “I’m sorry. That would be a violation of their privacy and against our rules.” The tip of her wand once again glowed red, which didn’t escape Egg’s notice.

“Not a problem.” Oh, yes it was. She really needed some help but she knew deep in her heart that she couldn’t ask any of her sisters. And apparently, Tee’ka couldn’t help her either. What to do?

A random thought came to her out of the blue. “Hey, Tee . . . how smart is Jynx?”

“I would characterize the Shamie as one of the most intelligent semi-sentient species that any hostess or any visitor to Laff’Alott has ever encountered. She is quite remarkable.”

“Would you do me a favor and ask her if she would come with me on my test flight.”

“How thoughtful of you to think of her. One moment.”

A few seconds later, Jynx appeared . . .

“Hey, you big cuddly purple thing, thanks for coming.”

“Grrrrrrr,” and she ambled over to the girl and gave her a lick.

“Tee, do me a favor and give me and Jynx five minutes alone.”

“Of course. I will be back at the designated time,” and she disappeared.

“Jynx, I hope you can understand me. And don’t take it the wrong way when I say I feel like an idiot talking to you . . .”

“Grrrrrrr.”

“Thank you. Anyway, I’m betting that whoever is forcing the sisters to act strange didn’t think to include you. Spirit and the rest are acting funny and I don’t know why. I just feel it. I need a friend and you’re the only one I can ask for help. Am I making sense?”

“Grrrrrrr”.

“Really? Epic.”

“Grrrrrrr. Burp.”

“Shut up. It’s a perfectly good word so get used to it.”

*****

On Serenity’s Ship

“What is going on?”

The six restrained girls looked at each other and smiled with their eyes (yes, you can really do that.) Sylvia spoke for the sisters. “I’m not sure what you’re asking,” she replied innocently.

“How does she know there’s something wrong? What is she planning to do with that animal?”

Sylvia again looked at the others. This time they nodded an ‘okay’. “Being a good leader requires a lot of different . . . um, skills. She needs more than the cooperation of the people following her . . . she needs their loyalty.” Syl stopped to see Serenity’s reaction.

The girl just shook her head in exasperation. “That is obvious. What has it got to do with what’s going on?”

“Egg knows her sisters almost as well as we know ourselves. Not because she’s trying to manipulate us but because she really and truly cares. She’s tuned in to our feelings, our facial expressions and our body language. It may not be on a conscious level, but subconsciously she senses everything.”

“I couldn’t disagree more. If she has those abilities then manipulating the six of you is that much easier.”

If Serenity was hoping for an argument, she didn’t get one. “Whatever,” was Syl’s reply.

“What about that animal?”

“That animal is a Shamie and my dear companion.”

“Is she really as intelligent as your hostess seems to think she is?”

Sylvia nonchalantly tapped twice.

“For an animal,” lied Spirit.

Serenity stared at the Thought Weaver as if she was trying to read her mind. After a few seconds, she shrugged. “Since I can’t produce an avatar of it without exhaustive research, I’m forced to let Egg have her pet. Can’t imagine it will matter.”

“Serenity, can I ask you something?”

“Of course, Aeri’elle.”

“It was you that disabled Egg’s flying suit . . . not the Empress. Right?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“When she’s Flying Girl, she feels invincible. I want her to react to my challenges as a normal Earth girl . . . not some artificial super hero.”

Sylvia just couldn’t keep quiet. “She’s not an artificial super hero. She’s the real thing . . . with or without the suit.”

Serenity shook her head in disgust. “You fools. I don’t know why I even bother with you.”

“Agreed. So let us go and if a few days will be off this world and back home.”

“Not going to happen. At least, not the way you want.”

*****

At the Aerodrome

“Here they come. Just listen and watch, okay?”

“Grrrrrrr.”

Egg leaned over and gave the Shamie a big hug. “I’m glad you’re here,” she whispered into Jynx’s ear.

“Grrrrrrr.”

Sera’Fina landed the craft and hopped out. The other two girls did the same.

“How was it?”

“Easy-peasy. This butterfly just might be able to beat the famous Flying Girl,” teased BreeZee’s avatar.

“How about you?” Egg asked Spirit.

“Compared to piloting ‘7’, this craft is surprisingly simple. Like Bree, I should be able to give you a . . . spirited race.”

“Cute. Hey, hope you don’t mind but I asked Jynxie to ride with me. Figure it’s a good chance for us to bond.”

Spirit blinked a few times. “Great idea. Jynxie, behave yourself and do whatever Egg asks of you. Okay?”

“Grrrrrrr.”

“Good girl. Okay then, I think Bree and I will head back to the room.” Spirit looked around. “Where is Tee’ka?”

“She’ll be back in a minute. Aren’t you going to take some time to practice?” asked Egg.

“No, I’m good. How about you, Bree?”

“Good to go.”

“Wow. That’s impressive. Well, I guess I’ll see you later . . . maybe in a few hours.”

“Hours? You won’t need that much time to learn, I promise you.”

“Maybe not, but there’s one thing Flying Girl can’t get enough of. Want to guess what that is?”

“Nothing comes to mind,” teased the Thought Weaver’s avatar.

*****

“Are you sure you want to take that thing with us?”

“Grrrrrrr. Burp.”

“Her name is Jynx and she’s very sensitive. Please don’t call her a ‘thing’.”

“Sorry.” Sera’Fina turned around and said to the Shamie, “Sorry, Jynx.”

“Grrrrrrr.”

“Okay, so if you two are ready, just pull back on the wheel and the craft will begin to rise. The more you pull it back, the faster it will gain altitude. Anytime you’re ready.”

Egg pulled back as she was told and the craft lifted slowly. When they reached a reasonable altitude, Sera’Fina told her companion, “Okay, pull the first lever toward you.”

Without thinking, Egg reached for it then pulled it back hard. The craft shot forward at an incredible speed forcing all three passages back in their seats. Jynx yelped in surprise.

“Ease up,” cried Sera’Fina, and Flying Girl did.

“Grrrrrrr. Burp.”

“Sorry, Jynx. Wow, that was bad.”

“Hey, this is your first time. It takes a bit getting used to. What do you think . . . does Flying Girl like to fly in an aero craft?”

“It’s way different than flying with just my suit. There are no controls; it responds to whatever I’m thinking. This is a little trickier.”

“I love to fly. Too bad I can’t get a suit like yours. Then, you and I could travel the galaxy, fighting the good fight. I bet there are a zillion people that could use our help.”

Egg’s face lit up. Now this was a topic of conversation that could distract her from her doubts. “I think that would be wonderful. The others don’t see themselves as crime fighters except when it involves one of our own. But I think fighting evil wherever it shows up would be an epic way to spend your life.”

“Epic?”

“It’s a perfectly good word. Trust me.”

They both giggled and whatever tension Egg had been feeling began to fade away.

“Sera’Fina, have you ever done this race before?”

“Last year. That’s when I decided you needed a strategy to win.”

“Which is what?”

“Here’s where I have a problem. If I tell you and you don’t help, then you’ll know how to beat me.”

“Why wouldn’t I help you?”

“Cause I’m not a Hameggattic Sister. Two of yours will be racing against me. It will probably come down to you choosing between them or me.”

Egg went quiet as she considered the problem. “No it won’t. This isn’t a life or death struggle . . . it’s just a silly race. No one gets hurt, except maybe their pride. Those two are out to beat me so turnabout is fair play, don’t you think?”

“Well, I’m being selfish, but – yup, you’re absolutely right. It’s just a game.”

“Then it’s settled. Tell me your strategy.”

“Later. First, let’s finish your lessons by practicing a series of maneuvers that you’ll need during the race. Ready?”

Chapter 9 – Up in the Air

Serenity’s Ship

“Isn’t that a problem for you?” asked Sylvia.

“Why is that a problem? It’s actually a vindication of my theory.”

“Nonsense. Egg is playing a game. She always plays to win . . . even if it’s against one of us. That’s not betrayal. It’s not even being selfish. It’s why you play. If it was a team competition and she was doing something for herself without regard for the others, then you might have a point. But that’s not what’s happening. In fact, just the opposite. She’s joining Sera’Fina’s team.”

Serenity went silent and Sylvia heard a few of her sisters give a single tap of approval. Then their host smiled. “Not if the safety protocols were disengaged.”

“What are you saying?”

“If during the race Egg finds out that the protocols have been disengaged, would she still try to win at the expense of her sisters?”

“Of course not.”

BreeZee joined the conversation with a sudden insight. “You can’t disengage the protocols. Syl, they were never off. Think about it. Every alarm on this world would sound if that happened. Laff’Alott would be ruined if a guest got hurt.”

“You’re right. Nice reasoning, sister,” said Aeri’elle.

Serenity considered that statement. “But Egg doesn’t know that. Her hostess will tell her it’s true and she’ll believe her. However, for this challenge, I agree . . . she won’t jeopardize the welfare of her sisters in this scenario. That must wait for her second challenge.  But you have given me a much better idea. What do you think will happen if we raise the stakes?”

“Meaning?”

“Right now she’s playing for a trophy. What would she do if I have the Empress tell her that each sister will be given a unique incentive to win. For Egg, her suit will be restored to full functionality; if she loses, the suit will never again work.

For Spirit, if she wins, the evil government of her planet will be removed and she will be free to go home to her parents. If she loses, the Empress will give her to the bad guys – as you earthlings would say.

And for our beautiful butterfly, what could we do. Let me think. Hmmm, since there is nothing obvious, I’m forced to make up a problem. How about, if she loses, the remaining WingStone will be destroyed and her people doomed to extinction. If she wins, the Empress will give her people an endless supply of the Stone so they will never again have to worry about its safety. I think that should do it.” She looked at each of the girls and smiled triumphantly.

“You wouldn’t dare?”

Serenity made a face . . . totally frustrated with the other girl’s thick-headedness. “Of course I would never harm the real sisters. This is just a challenge to show you what Egg is really like – a flawed leader. No matter what happens, after this you are all free to go if that’s what you want.  As to her suit, I would never destroy such amazing technology. My mother would never forgive me. Again, Egg won’t know that.”

The six sisters heard the reference to Serenity’s dearly departed mother . . . and despite everything, their hearts went out to this very troubled girl.

On the other hand, Serenity was putting Egg in an awful position. Their sister had said that from the moment she first put on the suit, Eloise Grace Graystone had become Flying Girl in more ways than one. It was who she was. It was all she wanted to be.

Egg’s decision could be a life changer . . . one way or another.

*****

Without putting too fine a point on it, at first Egg was awful. Within minutes of her lesson, her obvious lack of ability in piloting a craft that almost flew itself was beginning to be embarrassing. And the more embarrassed she became, the worse she flew.

“FOR FLYING OUT LOUD,” she finally screamed. “If you weren’t here, I’d have crashed about a million times. And we’ve only been flying for ten minutes.”

“Actually, it’s been about six,” teased Sera’Fina.

“Kill me now.”

“Sorry. That’s not allowed on Laff’Alott.”

Egg looked over at the other girl . . . only to see her stick out her tongue. Both girls broke down in a fit of giggles.

“Feeling better?”

“Yeah. I think I know what the problem is.”

“What?”

Egg grinned. “You. As a teacher, you’re worse than Smelly Kelley.”

“Who’s that?”

“My math teacher. He was awful . . . couldn’t teach worth a lick and smelled like potpourri.”

“Which is?”

“Dead flowers, I think.”

“Sounds dreadful.”

“I’m just teasing you.”

“I know.” The girl hesitated then added, “Egg, I like you. You remind me of Princess Cloud Dancer.”

Egg laughed. “Who?”

“Yours truly. That’s what my dad called me when I was growing up.” (Actually, as an avatar, Sera’Fina grew up in a very large test tube).

“Cute. Why that?”

“Cloud Dancer because I could fly before I could walk. And Princess because . . . well, it’s obvious isn’t it. I’m cute as a button and obviously descended from royalty.” Then her smile left her face. “Sorry.”

“For what?”

“Because you’re the real live princess. Queen Rose’Alynnia was your ancestor.”

“Yeah, I guess that’s true. I do think of her as my big sister.”

“I thought you had an older sister?”

“Her name is Ashley and she’s the best. But, we need to get back to this flying lesson or I’ll never be able to race.”

“The problem is you’re thinking about this craft as a machine. Think about it like it was an extension of your body. Almost like your flying suit. Relax. Don’t chase the aircraft. Don’t react to what it’s doing; let it react to what you want it to do.”

“What does that mean?”

“Don’t think about the controls. Think about where you want the craft to go . . . your hands will understand. Trust me.”

Egg frowned. “Well, I’ve got nothing to lose at this point. My pride is gone and I’ve made Jynx airsick.”

“That’s the spirit.”

Egg glanced over and Sera’Fina was trying not to laugh. “If this doesn’t work, I’m calling you Smelly Kelley forever.”

But it worked. And over the next hour and half, the two girls flew through the sky doing more and more complex maneuvers. Egg could not have been happier.

*****

After the lesson, the girls and Jynx started to walk back to town.

“I can transport you back to your room,” Tee’ka offered.

“No thanks. If Sera’Fina is up to it, I’d like to walk for a while. It’ll give us a chance to talk.”

“I’d like that.”

“Jynx, may I transport you back to the room?”

“Grrrrrrr”. (I know it all sounds the same, but the Shamie was saying no, thanks).

“Very well. I will follow at a discrete distance so you may have some privacy.”

“Tee, that’s not necessary. You’re a friend; you have every right to walk with us.”

The hologram smiled warmly. “That is very kind of you, Egg. I do appreciate being included.”

As they headed back to their rooms, Egg asked, “Before you tell me your race strategy, aren’t we going to be competitors? Don’t I want to kick your butt?”

The other girl scrunched her face. “I’m assuming ‘kick your butt’ doesn’t actually involve your foot and my backside.”

Egg giggled. “Sorry. It’s an earth phrase. It means that I will do whatever it takes to win the race.”

“See. That’s one of the reasons I really like you. Your other two sisters are in it for the thrill – winning is secondary. You, like me, are in it for victory. That’s the thrill.”

Egg laughed at the memory of her grandmother giving her a lesson about playing games and winning. It was on the day that she gave Egg the flying suit. It was a day that she could never forget.

“Laughing at some memory, I’m guessing.”

“Oh yeah,” and she told the other girl the story.

“Wow. That’s not in any history book.”

“Why would it be?”

“Because you’re Flying Girl and the galaxy has never seen anyone like you. You’re famous.”

Egg shook her head. “I’m not famous. I’m just a novelty. If it weren’t for my flying suit, I would be like any other teenager back on Earth. No one in the galaxy would even know I was alive.”

“You just gotta stop with this modesty stuff. You’re famous and so is your Sisterhood. Learn to live with it.”

“Like I have a choice.”

“You could stop being Flying Girl.”

Egg shook her head. “I could never do that. It’s who I am.” (Back on her ship, Serenity looked up from her controls and at the six bound girls. She said nothing – only smiled.) “Anyway, you haven’t answered my question. Aren’t we competitors?”

“No, we’re teammates. If one wins, we both win.”

“That’s it? Won’t there be other teams?”

“No. Most people assume you have to race as an individual. But . . . there’s a loophole in the rules that was put in many years ago to accommodate the Binarians. They used it just that once. For whatever reasons, the people in charge never took it out. So, we’re going to use it to our advantage.”

“Okay, first – what’s a Binarian?”

“They’re the inhabitants of the planet Binar. Binarians always give birth to identical twins though on rare occasions, it could be triplets. They are two or three separate individuals physically, but they share a single brain. Half the brain is in one, the other half in the other. In the case of triplets, it’s a third not a half. The weird thing is that they must always stay in close proximity to each other. So if one wanted to race, the other had to go along.”

Egg laughed. “I can’t wait to tell Grammy. Two persons that share the same brain . . . how epic is that?”

“Grrrrrrr. Burp.”

“Shut up.”

“Why is that epic?”

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve told my grandmother that she and I were two people that shared the same brain. I was teasing. Who knew it was possible?”

“Lovely story; thanks for sharing,” came the sarcastic reply. “Anyway, that’s why there’s a rule that lets two or three people team up.”

“How does that help us?”

“One of us will distract an opponent while the other knocks them out of the sky.”

“It’s definitely not cheating, right?”

“Right.”

“And if I finish first, we finish first.”

“Or the other way around,” she hesitated then added with a smile “which is much more likely.”

Egg gave the girl a playful shove. “Okay, then. Let’s do it.”

“Great. Just have her,” and she pointed at Tee’ka, “notify the race committee.”

“Hey, she has a name.”

“Please, Egg . . . I took no offense.”

“Well, I did.”

“Geez, sorry,” apologized Sera’Fina. “Tee’ka, would you please notify the race committee?” She turned back to Egg, “That better?”

Egg just nodded. It was hard for her to stomach when one person was needlessly mean to another.

“Well, I gotta go in that direction,” and Sera’Fina pointed. “So, I’ll see you back here in a few hours. Get some rest and eat a good meal. The race gets pretty intense.”

“I will. See ya.”

After the other girl disappeared, Egg apologized to her new friend. “I’m really sorry. That was rude of her.”

Tee’ka took on a solid form, reached out, and hugged the girl. “Egg, you stir such amazing emotions in me. Your kindness, your empathy and your friendship are memories I will treasure forever. I doubt I will ever meet another like you. Like your sisters.”

“Tee, I wish there was some way I could make you a sister right now. I’ll keep bugging Aeri’elle. Maybe she’ll find a way.”

“I understand that the possibility of success is infinitesimally small . . . but I will nurture the hope until the day I am deactivated.”

“WHAT?”

“Deactivated. It means . . .”

“I know what it means. Why would they do that to you?”

“I represent the pinnacle of technology. But like all inventions, sooner or later an improved hostess will be created and my services will no longer be required.”

“And . . . and . . . and,” sputtered the other girl, “they just kill you?”

“Egg, my dear friend, all things grow old and die. That is the nature of life.”

“But . . . but . . .”

“Calm yourself. Without Astral Sing, there is no one even working on this technology. Even if there was, they certainly don’t have her abilities. It will be many, many years before such concerns will become relevant.” She smiled then added, “And you will be an old woman by then.”

Egg managed a little smile. “I still don’t like it.”

“Thank you . . . but there is nothing to be done about it.”

“We’ll see about that. You may not be a sister yet . . . but you are my friend. And I’m not going to let anyone hurt you.” At that moment, Egg looked more like Bl’azzz . . . because she was figuratively breathing fire.

“The history books already say you are unique in all the galaxy. I am just beginning to see why.”

“Please, don’t say stuff like that.”

Tee’ka smiled again. “When the day comes, I will be so very proud to be your sister. I will gladly follow you to the ends of the universe.”

They hugged once more.

*****

“Shall we teleport back to room?”

“Yes. No.”

Tee’ka smiled. “I do not have the power to do both.”

“Tee, you can teleport me and Jynx . . . but not to the room. I want to materialize – is that the word – out on the balcony.”

“Of course. May I ask why?”

She couldn’t tell her friend the real reason since Tee’ka’s wand was always turning red. Obviously, someone was trying to do take control of her. So, she lied. “They’ve been teasing me so much that I thought I’d return the favor. I’m going to jump out and scare them.”

“That is considered acceptable behavior?”

“Sure. I’m just goofing around. It’s how friends treat friends.”

“I see. Okay, here we go.”

In the next blink of an eye, they were on the balcony where they first arrived in Fair’Giggle. They materialized off to one side so that no one in the room could see them. Jynx was wagging her tail apparently excited to see her master again. Egg shushed her. She then crept up to the glass door and peered in.

“Oh my gosh,” she murmured.

“Is there a problem?”

“Um . . . no. Come on, let’s go in.” She opened the door and did just that. The six girls turned as one and greeted the new arrivals.

“How was it?” asked Sylvia.

“Wonderful. I had a blast. The race should be fun.”

BreeZee’s avatar asked, “What did you think of Sera’Fina?”

“She’s pretty neat. I like her.”

What Egg had ‘oh my goshed’ about was that when she peered in, the other girls were just sitting there – not talking, not moving, not anything. They looked like mannequins.

Chapter 10 – And the Winner Is

“Hey, Syl”.

“Yes?”

“Listen, this race is going to be so intense that I won’t be able to handle any distractions. If you don’t mind, I rather you not be there.”

“Really? But you’re taking Jynx?”

“She and I are just starting to bond. Besides, other than a Grrrrrrr and a burp, she doesn’t say much.”

“Well, that’s disappointing. I guess I understand.”

“Thanks.” Egg turned to Tee’ka and said “Nobody gets to observe me, okay?”

“As you wish Egg.”

“Great. So, if my two sisters are ready, let’s get down to the airport.”

“It’s called an aerodrome,” corrected her brain.

“Whatever. You ready Jynx?”

“Grrrrrrr”.

“Okay, Tee . . . let’s do this thing.”

They disappeared but when they rematerialized it wasn’t at the airpo . . . I mean aerodrome. In fact, as she looked around, Egg was alone. Her sisters and Jynx were gone. More curious than frightened, she examined her surroundings. It seemed to be a big, very dark empty room. Standing about ten feet away was the vague shape or silhouette of something weird . . .

When she realized it was a person, she uttered her “Oh my gosh”.

“I dislike that phrase.”

“You wouldn’t be the first person.” Then she added, “You are a person, right?”

“I am. I believe you refer to me as the big cheese.” In reality of course, it was a projection from Serenity’s ship.

“No way.”

“Never contradict an empress . . . assuming that you wish to keep your tongue.”

“Sorry.”

“You are about to enter an air race . . . competing for a worthless trophy. That is beneath the dignity of someone of your stature and I forbid it.”

“I can’t race?”

“On the contrary. You may race . . . in fact I insist that you do . . . but for a different prize.” The ghoulish image of the Empress went on to explain the stakes for Egg and for her other two sisters.

“Are you crazy?”

“I will caution you just this once. Do not show me disrespect. You would not like the consequences.”

“But you’re setting it up so I can’t win. If I come in first, I get my suit but lose my two sisters. If one of them comes in first, they get their prize but the other two of us lose big time. That’s not fair.”

“Since in either case, one of your sisters will be lost; your choice is that much easier.”

“No idea what you just said.”

“If you win, Spirit and BreeZee lose. If BreeZee wins, you and Spirit lose. And if Spirit wins, you and BreeZee lose. Therefore, regardless of the scenario, at least one of your sisters will lose. So when you decide whether you will try to win to regain your flying suit, the cost is only one sister. Your choice, then, is to sacrifice one to regain the suit and once more be Flying Girl. If you choose not to win, you will still lose one sister.”

“Why are you doing this?”

“Because I can. Because it amuses me.”

Egg got that look in her eye when someone was being mean for no reason. “You’re not crazy . . . you’re completely insane.”

“I look forward to seeing the choice you will make. I wonder, will it be Flying Girl, the doer of good throughout the galaxy or Eloise, the Egg who once flew? Before you choose to give up Flying Girl, I encourage you to think of the thousands, dare I say millions, of people that you might one day save. You would be sacrificing their happiness, perhaps their lives, for one sister . . . that does not seem like a fair exchange.”

“DON’T DO THIS.”

“Good flying” was the response and the darkness dissolved into light and Egg was standing by her aircraft.”

*****

“Where did you go?” asked BreeZee.

“Umm . . .,” she glanced at Tee’ka and saw that the wand was red. “I forgot something and had to go back. Anyway, good luck,” and she gave each girl a hug. To Jynx she said “Jynxie, take a walk with me. Tee, give us a minute, please.”

“Of course, Egg.”

Girl and Shamie walked a little distance away from the others. Egg went to her knees so she was eye level with the animal.

“I don’t know what to do . . .,” and she proceeded to tell Jynx about her conversation with the Empress. When she finished, she asked, “You wouldn’t have any suggestions, would you?” and immediately felt foolish for having done it.

Jynx stood up, growled and started to walk towards an unused aircraft. After a few feet, she stopped and looked back at Egg who was just staring at her. “Grrrrrrr.” She repeated and began to walk again.

“Oh, you want me to follow you. Why didn’t you just say so?’

“Grrrrrrr. Burp.”

“Shut up.”

They walked to the far side of the craft, which hid them from any prying eyes. “Okay, now what?”

Jynx morphed into a three-headed version of Egg . . . except one head was Spirit’s and the other BreeZee.

“Geez, that’s freaky.”

“Grrrrrrr.” Then the Shamie went up to the vacant aircraft and tapped it with a paw.

Egg stared at the animal trying to figure out what message it was trying to convey . . . but without any luck.

“Grrrrrrr. Burp,” said the frustrated Shamie and morphed again. This time it changed into a replica of Sylvia.

“Still freaky.”

The Sylvia/Shamie held up her right hand and extended three fingers. Then she held up her other hand, extended one finger, and pointed it at the aircraft. A moment later, she morphed back to herself.

“Wow, you are intelligent. That’s just brilliant. But how do I do it?”

If the Shamie hadn’t been freaky before, she was now. She raised a paw and one of her fingers began to grow. It became longer and longer, and eventually encircled Egg around her waist. Then it withdrew to its normal size.

Egg fell to her knees again and wrapped her arms around her weird animal friend. “You are truly amazing. If this works, I’m going to give you a green scarf and make you an honorary Hameggattic Sister. Would you like that?”

The Shamie wasn’t just intelligent; she had a pretty good sense of humor. She morphed into an exact replica of Prince Ben’Edikk, grabbed Egg close and kissed her on the lips.

Egg pulled away and cried “NOOOO. That’s gross.”

“Grrrrrrr.”

Egg wiped her mouth, looked at Jynx and giggled. “Okay, it wasn’t gross, it was epic. But promise me you won’t do it again.”

“Grrrrrrr.”

“Come on, we have a race to fly.”

*****

“Hi.”

“Hi, Egg. You ready?”

“Yup. So, how many people are racing?”

“Because much of the planet is shut down for repairs, there are only a dozen contestants. Me, you, your two sisters and eight others” replied Sera’Fina. “Normally, there’s fifty to hundred.”

“I guess we’re lucky then. Um, can I ask you a favor?”

“Sure.”

“Let’s knock out Spirit and Bree last.”

“Why?”

“Let them think they have a chance to win. It’ll give them something to brag about for weeks . . . or longer.”

“Not a problem. Just remember the hand signals and we should be fine.”

“There are no radios in the planes?”

“What are radios?”

“Communications devices.”

“No. That’s why we have the hand signals.”

“Got it. Okay, I’ll see you at the starting line.”

“Good luck . . . not that we’re going to need it.”

“Right back at you.”

*****

The starting line was actually about a thousand feet above the ground. The twelve air racers took their position between two very bright red beacons that marked the end points of that line.

From speakers mounted in the beacons, the race official made his pronouncements. “Contestants, the race has been considerably shortened because there are so few participants . . . speed, not endurance, will be critical. The course – as well as the finish line – is marked by the same type of beacons you see here. If they are blinking red, it means you are entering a particularly hazardous stretch so take appropriate caution. Green marks the finish line. Other than staying between the beacons, there are no rules. Please be assured that the central computer will track each pilot. No one has ever been injured . . . and no one will. If you wish to abort your participation for any reason, please remember there is a red button on your steering control. Press it and you will be teleported back to the aerodrome. The race begins in three . . . two . . . one.”

And they were off.

Sera’Fina and Egg jumped out to an early lead . . . but they had no intention of staying there until they approached the finish line. The girls glanced behind them and smiled. All the other racers were bunched up trying to catch the two girls.

The first part of the race had them heading straight towards the face of a cliff. At the last possible second, the beacons instructed the racers to veer hard right to avoid a nasty collision with the mountain. The beacons were beginning to blink red. The closer to the cliff, the faster they blinked.

The two girls ignored the warnings and kept ‘pedal to the metal’. Egg glanced at Sera’Fina who was smiling. She looked back at her friend and raised her right hand. A few seconds later she dropped it . . . it was their signal to apply the air brakes.

They performed the brake and hard bank to the right flawlessly . . . taking the turn with absolutely no margin to spare.

Those behind, who were concentrating on the two craft that were leading, were unprepared for the maneuver. They jammed on their air brakes but couldn’t make the turn. One craft went straight into the cliff face . . . the pilot teleported out before he (or she) became a smear of red jam. The craft smashed into the mountain in an impressive display of chaos and destruction.

Two other craft lost control and smacked into each other. The tangle of aircraft began a slow spiral toward the ground below. At about a hundred feet, when it became obvious to the computer that neither pilot could recover, the two occupants were teleported to safety.

Three down, seven to go . . . five strangers and two sisters.

After the turn, the two girls slowed slightly so those behind could catch up and pass them. Egg was pleased to see Spirit and BreeZee take the lead. That was going to make things a lot simpler. As her Bree and Spirit flew by, their faces alight with smiles, Egg waved.

The next part of the race took them through a maze of tunnels. There were passages veering off in every direction. If it weren’t for the marker buoys, people would get lost in about a minute.

The tunnels were very large – wide enough for three or four aircraft to fly abreast. The only real challenges were the sudden turns to stay on course and the fact that other than those blinking red markers, there was virtually no light. Flying blind would be the appropriate term.

It really was a place to take it a little slower. But there’s always one or two fools willing to be heroes. One such ninny gunned his aircraft and passed the two Hameggattic sisters. Unfortunately, the next turn came at just the wrong time and he couldn’t navigate it. Well, he almost did. After hitting one side of the tunnel, he bounced off and hit the opposite side. Apparently he thought the instructions said ‘repeat as necessary’ . . . cause he did. Not once, not twice but about seven times. The damaged craft finally came to rest, pretty well crumpled and obviously not flyable. As the other contestants flew by, they could see the pilot dematerialize, as he was teleported away.

Four down, six to go.

They all approached the last segment of the tunnel maze and one of the last forks. Sera’Fina gave Egg some hand signals, increased her speed and pulled up to the craft ahead of her. The pilot turned to look at who it was . . . and Egg used that momentary distraction to speed up and slam the front of her craft into the tail of the other girl.

The impact caused the unsuspecting girl’s craft to veer left and with the tunnel about to fork, she had no choice but to take the wrong one. As soon as she did, the computer teleported her because she had left the course.

Five down, five to go.

Egg pulled even with Sera’Fina and gave her a thumbs up. The other girl smiled and returned the gesture.

*****

Back on the spaceship, Serenity turned to her ‘guests’. “It certainly appears that Egg plans on winning, doesn’t it? Apparently being Flying Girl is more important than her two sisters and their worlds. For shame.”

The girls, who could follow the race on the screens in the cabin, were having very mixed emotions. On one hand, Serenity’s assessment seemed to be accurate. On the hand, none of them believed for a moment that Egg would do such a thing. However, how their sister planned to resolve the dilemma was a mystery.

“Syl, what would you tell Egg to do?” asked Aeri’elle.

“I don’t know. I can’t see a way out of this.”

*****

Time was running out. It appeared that they were about three quarters through the race. She and Sera’Fina had to dispatch the last three non-sister contestants right now. This time Egg took the lead and signaled to her companion to follow.

As the racers exited the tunnel complex, they all gained altitude to get over a ridge of mountains . . . giving themselves room to spare.

Not Egg. She stayed dangerously low, hugging the ground and flirting with disaster. She couldn’t help but smile . . . despite the situation, she was having a blast. If she ever had to give up her flying suit, she would definitely earn her pilot’s license and fly the conventional way.

She was a bit lost in her daydream when she heard “Grrrrrrr. Burp.” Looking up she let out an “oops” and she pulled the craft up and over a pinnacle of rocks that she had lost sight of. “Thanks, Jynx.”

“Grrrrrrr.”

They accelerated and finally caught up to the last three craft that were trailing Bree and Spirit. They were flying in formation, three across. Again, Egg signaled Sera’Fina to follow her.

The two girls slipped their crafts under the right side of the left most competitor. Egg gave the signal and they both pulled back on their controls and shot up and into the unsuspecting flyer.

The impact sent the craft spinning sideways and into the second craft. Then the two tangled machines hit the third. The first two were hopelessly ruined and spun slowly toward the ground. The last one tried valiantly to stay aloft but it was a losing effort. It finally sputtered, flipped over and dove toward the ground.

All three pilots were teleported to safety.

Now there were four contestants left . . . BreeZee, Spirit, Sera’Fina and Egg.

And now it was up to Jynx. “You ready back there?” Egg yelled to her companion.

“Grrrrrrr.”

“Okay, let’s do it.”

These last four participants were making a beeline toward the green buoys. Spirit and Bree were neck and neck while the other two were just behind them. Sera’Fina gave Egg the signal.

Again, their timing was flawless. Egg smashed the tail of Bree’s craft driving it right. Sera’Fina hit Spirit driving her left. And a moment later, the two unsuspecting Hameggattic Sisters collided.

*****

Back on the spaceship, the six girls let out a gasp of shock. Serenity just laughed. Actually, she laughed a lot. She had been right all along.

Egg was selfish and self-centered.

It was all about her.

It was all about Flying Girl.

Epilogue

As the two tangled craft headed straight down, Sera’Fina looked at Egg and raised her arms in triumph.

But that lasted only a second.

Jynx’s paw shot out, extending the thirty or so feet to the other craft. Sera’Fina looked at it in surprise. This wasn’t part of the plan. When she realized what was about to happened, she tried to veer the craft away. But she was too slow.

Jynx’s paw hit the red button on Sera’Fina’s steering wheel and an instant later, she dematerialized as the central computer teleported her back to the aerodrome.

All that had taken about three seconds.

In the next instance, Egg dove straight down using full power. The force was so great she and Jynx were jammed back in their seats.

Four seconds later, they caught up to the other two tangled craft that were gently spiraling toward the ground.

Jynx once again sent her paws out like long, blue serpents.

She grabbed each girl and retracted her arms.

Two seconds later, they were in the backseat with the Shamie.

Egg pulled back on the controls as the ground came racing up to meet her. Even though it all happened in less than ten seconds, she barely had time to pull up and avoid disaster.

But she did and a half minute later, they crossed the finish line. She, Spirit, and BreeZee had won.

*****

Up in the spaceship, six girls screamed, hooted, and hollered with delight. Egg had done the impossible. Well, Jynx did help.

Serenity was fit to be tied. Spitefully she said, “You can stop celebrating. This isn’t over yet.”

*****

Back on the ground, Egg turned and hugged her four-legged friend. “Jynxie, you were epic. I owe you a green scarf.”

“Tee, I need a mirror and a green scarf like the one K’ssss always wore.” They materialized and Egg tied the scarf around the Shamie’s neck and held up the mirror for her to admire herself. “Looks fantastic. Congratulations, you are now an honorary Hameggattic sister.”

“Grrrrrrr,” and she gave Egg a big, saliva coated kiss that the other girl accepted gracefully.

“Egg,” asked a dazed Spirit. “What just happened?”

“We won, that’s what happened.”

“Not so fast,” came a very angry voice.

Egg turned to look at Sera’Fina. “Sorry about that. But my sisters come first.”

“I trusted you.” Egg was about to respond, to explain her predicament, but the girl cut her off. “I filed a formal protest with the race committee. You and I were teammates. By bringing the other two on-board, you violated the rules. I’ve asked for you to be disqualified and for me to be declared the winner.”

“If I may?” interrupted Tee’ka.

“No, you may not,” replied Sera’Fina rudely.

“Go head Tee.”

“Thank you Egg. I am sorry; I must have misunderstood your instructions. I did not register you and Sera’Fina as teammates. I registered you, Spirit and BreeZee. My bad.” Her eyes actually twinkled.

“YOU DID WHAT?” screamed Sera’Fina.

“You heard her. Me and my sisters won.”

Sera’Fina turned bright red. “I’ll get even for this.”

“Yeah, no. I won’t be racing anymore.”

“Not what I had in mind. I was just too nice . . . too trusting. I need someone who is meaner . . . rotten to the core. Someone who won’t hesitate to do whatever it takes to win.”

“Whatever. Have someone in mind?”

“I do. She’s my alter ego.”

“What?”

“She’s the bad me.”

“Oh, please. What does that even mean?”

“It means she will be challenging you to a little battle of wits. Winner takes all.”

“Takes all what?”

The girl ignored the question. “For the next day, all safety protocols are off. She will break your sisterhood. By the time she’s finished, your six sisters will probably hate you. At the very least, they will never let you lead them again.”

Egg was getting mad. “Not going to happen.  No idea what you’re even talking about, but the Hameggattic Sisterhood has faced tougher bad guys than you.”

“Oh, please. You’ve only fought one person . . . Mobius. He was a big mouth fool. My alter ego, on the other hand, is not. She’s going to prove to be a complete . . .,” she paused for effect, “. . . mystery.”

“Really? Sorry, not impressed.”

“How about now . . .” and she snapped her fingers. In that instant, Sera’Fina ‘did a Jynxie’ and morphed into  . . .

“My name is Mysteria. And you are a double-crossing, oath-breaking, untrustworthy   disloyal teammate in seriously serious trouble.”

“Oh my gosh.”

Serenity

Book 4, The Serenity Deception

Another Novel of

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood

Copyright 2014, by Robert Iannone

All rights reserved

(Book & Illustrations)

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1 – Don’t Call Me Gracie

Chapter 2 – The Challenge

Chapter 3 – The Other Mobius

Chapter 4 – GO

Chapter 5 – STOP

Chapter 6 – To Fly

Chapter 7 – Tee for Two, Two for Tee

Chapter 8 – The Newest Sister

Chapter 9 – Loose Ends

Chapter 10 – An Epic Oops

Prologue

Up in the spaceship, six girls screamed, hooted, and hollered with delight. Egg had done the impossible. Well, Jynx did help.

Serenity was fit to be tied. Spitefully she said, “You can stop celebrating. This isn’t over yet.”

*****

Back on the ground, Egg turned and hugged her four-legged friend. “Jynxie, you were epic. I owe you a green scarf.”

“Tee, I need a mirror and a green scarf like the one K’ssss always wore.” They materialized and Egg tied the scarf around the Shamie’s neck and held up the mirror for her to admire herself. “Looks fantastic. Congratulations, you are now an honorary Hameggattic sister.”

“Grrrrrrr,” and she gave Egg a big, saliva coated kiss that the other girl accepted gracefully.

“Egg,” asked a dazed Spirit. “What just happened?”

“We won, that’s what happened.”

“Not so fast,” came a very angry voice.

Egg turned to look at Sera’Fina. “Sorry about that. But my sisters come first.”

“I trusted you.” Egg was about to respond, to explain her predicament, but the girl cut her off. “I filed a formal protest with the race committee. You and I were teammates. By bringing the other two onboard, you violated the rules. I’ve asked for you to be disqualified and for me to be declared the winner.”

“If I may?” interrupted Tee’ka.

“No, you may not,” replied Sera’Fina rudely.

“Go head Tee.”

“Thank you Egg. I am sorry; I must have misunderstood your instructions. I did not register you and Sera’Fina as teammates. I registered you, Spirit and BreeZee. My bad.” Her eyes actually twinkled.

“YOU DID WHAT?” screamed Sera’Fina.

“You heard her. Me and my sisters won.”

Sera’Fina turned bright red. “I’ll get even for this.”

“Yeah, no. I won’t be racing anymore.”

“Not what I had in mind. I was just too nice . . . too trusting. I need someone who is meaner . . . rotten to the core. Someone who won’t hesitate to do whatever it takes to win.”

“Whatever. Have someone in mind?”

“I do. She’s my alter ego.”

“What?”

“She’s the bad me.”

“Oh, please. What does that even mean?”

“It means she will be challenging you to a little battle of wits. Winner takes all.”

“Takes all what?”

The girl ignored the question. “For the next day, all safety protocols are off. She will break your sisterhood. By the time she’s finished, your six sisters will probably hate you. At the very least, they will never let you lead them again.”

Egg was getting mad. “Not going to happen.  No idea what you’re even talking about, but the Hameggattic Sisterhood has faced tougher bad guys than you.”

“Oh, please. You’ve only fought one person . . . Mobius. He was a big mouth fool. My alter ego, on the other hand, is not. She’s going to prove to be a complete . . .,” she paused for effect, “. . . mystery.”

“Really? Sorry, not impressed.”

“How about now . . .” and she snapped her fingers. In that instant, Sera’Fina ‘did a Jynxie’ and morphed into  . . .

“My name is Mysteria. And you are a double-crossing, oath-breaking, untrustworthy   disloyal teammate in seriously serious trouble.”

“Oh my gosh.”

Chapter 1 – Don’t Call Me Gracie

“Is that it? All you’ve got to say is oh my gosh? You are pathetic.”

“Hey, be nice.”

The masked girl laughed . . . like her words, it was a bit muffled by the scarf over her mouth. “Nice is not part of my vocabulary. Nice is for losers.”

“Who are you and where’s Sera’Fina?”

“Pay attention, you dim-witted has-been. Sera’Fina is gone . . . as in no more.”

“What do you mean ‘no more’?”

“Like she told you – I’m her alter ego. Think of her as the chocolate coating on one of your earth candies. Once that’s gone, what’s left?”

Egg giggled despite herself. “The nut inside.”

“Laugh now, Gracie, but I’ll be laughing last . . . and best.”

One thing that almost no one knew about Egg was that she hated her middle name – Grace. It was probably because Ashley used to call her Gracie when she was young . . . just to irritate the little girl.

“Listen, Miss Inferior (give Egg credit for trying –turnaround is fair play, right?), if you call me Gracie one more time, I’m going to rip that ridiculously stupid scarf off your head.” Unlike Sera’Fina, who Egg liked from the very start (the hijinks of the race not withstanding), she really disliked this new girl. Mysteria was mean, rude and nasty. And they had only just met.

“I dare you to try, egg-o.”

“Egg,” interrupted Tee’ka. “Shall I have this person removed? If her behavior is bothersome, Fair’Giggle is authorized to teleport away such individuals if you so choose.”

“Thanks Tee, but I’ve got this.”

“This computer thing is your friend, isn’t it?”

“She’s not a thing . . . and yes, she’s my friend. Anyway, if Sera’Fina is gone – and I still have no idea what that means or where she went – what do you want?”

“Like you say on Earth, I’m challenging you to a rematch.”

“Sorry, I’m done flying. Well, flying airplanes anyway.”

“It’s not going to be a flying contest.”

Egg wanted to ask what the other girl had in mind. But her need to compete and beat this abrasive newcomer was more than offset by the desire never to see her again. “Still doesn’t matter. Can’t tell you what a thrill it was to meet you. Bye-bye.”

Ignoring the brush off, Mysteria said, “Tomorrow morning we’ll start our competition. I suggest you get someone to spoon feed you some dinner, then tuck you into bed and rock you to sleep, little girl.”

Egg had to fight herself and not respond in kind. “I am going back to my room . . . but I won’t be seeing you in the morning or any time. Tell Sera’Fina I’m sorry. Otherwise, it’s been real.” She turned to leave.

“Oh, I think you will be seeing me. Let’s say around eight.”

“No. Not going to happen. Get used to disappointment.”

“Too bad. I guess this hologram isn’t really your friend.”

“What are you talking about?”

“If you want to see her again, then you’ll partake in my challenge.” Before Egg or Tee’ka could respond, Mysteria opened her hand to reveal a device of some kind. “Yoo-hoo, come to momma,” she hissed.

Tee’ka let out a little “oh” then she was sucked into the device much like a genie into a magic brass lamp . . .

“TEE,” screamed Egg. Jynx echoed her displeasure with a “Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“It can’t hear you.”

“She is not an it. Let her go.” Egg was turning red with anger . . . an emotion she almost always reserved for someone who was trying to harm her sisters or friends.

“Take a deep breath, Gracie. I want you to concentrate your feeble mind on what I’m about to say. Your friend is now mine to do with, as I will. If you want to see her again, you have one choice. Tomorrow at eight, you will compete against me. If you win, I’ll return your hologram unharmed. Understand?”

“And if I lose?”

“Then I’ll have a little souvenir to take home with me when I leave this annoying planet.”

“Let her go. You can take me prisoner.”

“No.”

“Why are you doing this? Is it because of the race?”

“You cheated my friend to save yours. What makes them more important than Sera’Fina? Don’t,” and she put up her hand to stop Egg from responding. “There’s nothing you can say. So, I’m going to give you an opportunity to prove that your winning wasn’t an accident. Since I now know what you are – a two-faced, scheming liar – I won’t be surprised by anything you do. And I won’t fall for any of your tricks. Just to give you a fighting chance, I insist you bring your sisters. Seven against one, that should make it more fair.”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Make that eight,” replied Egg with a snide smile.

“I think not. I believe the Power of Seven is all you need.” She touched her once more and the Shamie began to swirl . . .

A moment later, Jynx was gone.

“WHAT DID YOU DO?” Egg screamed yet again. Her face had gone from red to plum purple. She took a threatening step toward Mysteria.

“Stop.” The masked girl held up the device. “One more move and I’ll take one of them,” and she pointed at BreeZee and Spirit who took a step backwards.

“You didn’t hurt her?”

“Of course not. Just another souvenir . . . unless you seven can win.”

Egg took a few deep breaths to calm herself. But it didn’t work. She managed to growl, “Eight o’clock tomorrow. Don’t be late,” and she turned and stormed off. Her two sisters hurried to catch up.

Back on Serenity’s Ship

Jynx materialized on Serenity’s ship. The Shamie looked around – a bit disoriented trying to get her bearings. Seeing Spirit, she was about to amble over when a mechanical hand came out of a panel and dropped a large collar over her head. As soon as it made contact, it began to contract until it fit snuggly around Jynx’s neck. The Shamie growled and burped her disapproval. She looked to Spirit but the Thought Weaver ever-so-slightly shook her head ‘no’.

“Jynxie . . . lie down. Don’t remove the collar until I tell you.”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Did you just give your pet a command?” Serenity had never considered the possibility that the telepath could talk to a single individual. She assumed that like normal speech, a telepath’s communications would be heard by all. This revelation was troubling.

Spirit answered with the appropriate lie. “Obviously not”.

But BreeZee had seen the look on Serenity’s face and instantly understood what the girl was thinking. “I think she was referring to your head nod, Spirit.”

The Thought Weaver looked up at her winged friend who gave her a quick wink.  It took a moment before she understood the message. “Sorry, Serenity. It’s so second nature to me to give Jynx commands with my head or hands that I almost don’t realize I’m doing it. She was about to come over to me. If she realizes that I’m . . . I’m your reluctant guest, she would get upset. I didn’t want her to cause a scene.”

Serenity weighed the words . . . trying to assess their veracity (think truthfulness). Reluctantly, she decided to accept the statement at face value. “Thank you for clarification. But, no need to worry. She now wears an obedience collar . . . she won’t be doing anything I might find disagreeable. Be sure she understands that.”

Spirit pushed against her restraints . . . an involuntary reaction to Serenity’s words. She was very protective of Jynx and the thought of an obedience collar made her blood boil. With a superhuman (or is that super-alien) strength, she forced herself to calm down. “As you wish. Jynx, please only respond to my commands. Do not react to anything you see. Understand?”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Thank you. By the way dear one, congratulations on becoming an honorary sister. I’m so very proud of you. It was well deserved; you were magnificent.”

“Grrrrrr”.

“I second that, Jynxie. You were terrific,” said Sylvia.

Soo added, “Love your super sexy scarf, kiddo. Nice job.”

The other girls also congratulated their furry friend.

“Grrrrrr”.

“Jynxie, now would be a good time to get some rest. Please, lie down and nap.”

“Grrrrrr,” and the Shamie flopped down, rolled over on her back and began to snore gently.

“That girl loves to sleep,” quipped Soo.

“It’s her favorite pastime. Eating is a close second.”

“You gotta love that about her,” commented Sylvia with a smile. No one appreciated sleep more than she did.

Aeri’elle interrupted the conversation when she asked Serenity, “What is it that you have planned? What’s with this Mysteria?”

“Whereas Sera’Fina was nice, friendly – all the things that Egg would like in a friend, or a sister – Mysteria is the complete opposite. She’s mean, rude and totally unlikeable. She’s the type of personality that Egg wants to beat. Wants to beat so badly that she’ll do anything to win. Even if it costs her a sister or two.”

“Wow, you really have no idea what Egg is like.”

“Feminion, it’s you who doesn’t understand her. With all due respect, it takes someone of my intellect to appreciate her psyche.”

Sylvia just rolled her eyes.

“So what’s this contest Mysteria is challenging Egg to?” pressed Aeri’elle.

“If I told you, I would spoil the fun. Let’s just watch and enjoy the show, shall we? But first, since she did win, I need to give Egg back her ability to fly. Wouldn’t want her to think that the Empress couldn’t be trusted, now could we?” She turned some dials and pressed a few buttons then leaned back with a smug look on her face. “Enjoy it while you can, Gracie,” she mumbled under her breath.

*****

Fair’Giggle

“Egg, slow down.”

No response.

“EGG,” BreeZee yelled.

“What? Oh, sorry.” She stopped and waited for her two sisters to catch up.

“What are we going to do?” asked Spirit. “I have to rescue Jynx.”

Egg was so upset with Mysteria that she never even considered how Spirit might be feeling. “Oh, Spirit. I’m really sorry about Jynxie. You know I won’t stop until I get her back.”

“I do and I thank you. But it’s ‘we’ not ‘I’.”

“And that ‘we’ includes me,” added BreeZee’s avatar.

Egg hugged both of her sisters. “Like Mysteria said, the power of seven is all we need. Let’s hurry back to the others so we can talk this out.” As they trotted off, Egg told the girls about her little visit with the Empress and why she had to do what she did to win the race.

*****

They were back at the room in ten minutes. It didn’t take Egg long to bring the remaining sisters up to speed . . . spending extra time on the conversation she had with the Empress. When she finished, the other six started talking at once . . . each trying to make a point but no one listening to what the others had to say.

“Hey, shut up.” Egg rolled her eyes because there was so much noise it drowned out her voice. “SHUT UP,” she screamed.

“What did you say?”

“You guys are cackling like my mom’s bridge club.”

“I think I’ve been insulted,” replied a teasing Feminion.

“Syl, I’m not a brain surgeon like you but I guessing one conversation would be more useful.”

Sylvia smiled. “I prefer you think of me as a rocket scientist . . . math and science over that yucky squishy stuff inside people’s heads.”

“Oh my gosh. This is serious.”

“Sorry. Just trying to lighten the mood.” Egg gave her a dirty look. “Sorry,” she repeated contritely.

“Egg’s right,” said Aeri’elle. “Let’s focus and attack this logically.”

“First question is who is this Mysteria? I have no idea what she meant when she said she was Sera’Fina’s alter ego.”

“Alter ego is like a second you, but with a personality that is opposite of your regular personality,” explained the brain surgeon . . . I mean rocket scientist. “Um . . . like Doctor Jekyll and Mister Hyde.”

“What?”

“Who?”

“Sorry. It’s an earth story. The Doctor is good until he turns into Mr. Hyde who is evil.”

“He changes shape like Sera’Fina and Mysteria?”

“Um . . . no.”

“So what does that mean?”

“That’s all I’ve got, sorry.”

“I have a suggestion.” Everyone turned to look at Spirit. “Maybe she’s like Jynxie . . . a shape shifter.”

“That would mean Sera’Fina could come back. I don’t think that’s going to happen.”

“Why do you say that, Egg?” someone asked

“Just a feeling. Besides, Mysteria said she was gone . . . and I think that was the truth. Wherever Sera’Fina went, or however she did it, I didn’t get goose bumps. Hopefully, she’s okay. Anyway, Sera’Fina is not the problem; her masked friend is.”

“So all we know,” said Bl’azzz, “is that this girl wears a mask, is nasty as Mobius and has at least one nifty gizmo. How does that help us?”

“Don’t forget she’s pretty conceited,” added BreeZee. “She thinks she can beat all seven of us.”

“Do you think that’s because she’s got more wickedly wacky weapons up her sleeve?”

“Probably, Soo,” responded Sylvia.

“Listen; let’s not forget this is about her getting even with me.”

“And?”

“And maybe I should face her by myself.”

That brought an explosion of six very angry replies from the avatar girls. It was totally in character with the real sisters but, more importantly, Serenity needed the others to participate for her plan to work.

“You listen here,” demanded Sylvia. “No way, no how, and not going to happen. We are a sisterhood in case you forgot.”

“Besides,” added Spirit, “that girl has my Jynxie. I will help.”

“Don’t forget you made Jynx an honorary sister,” Syl reminded her friend. “That means we all have an obligation to help get her back.”

“Not only that, I like Tee’ka as much as you do, Egg,” added Bl’azzz. “She’s going to make a great sister if big bird can figure out a way to get her off this planet. I want to help. Correction . . . I’m going to help.”

“I agree with fire breath. Tee’ka is wonderful. Like I said before, I promise to do everything possible to find a way to get her off this world,” replied Aeri’elle with great (though simulated) sincerity.

“Thanks you guys. I guess there really isn’t anything to do but wait for Mysteria to tell us what she has in mind. It’s going to be hard to sleep. Even worse, I’m hungrier than our former slithering sick of silly (obviously referring to the overweight K’ssss who could never get enough eel to eat). What are we going to do about food?”

The other girls were avatars and didn’t get hungry but they couldn’t very well say that. “Guess will just have to eat a big breakfast. Come on, let’s turn in. Tomorrow morning will go looking for a restaurant or whatever they have on this nutty world,” suggested Sylvia.

“I guess. Goodnight, guys.”

“Goodnight, Egg.”

Chapter 2 – The Challenge

Egg woke up with a start. “I won,” she said to herself as she jumped out of bed, into the living room, past five of her six sisters (Sylvia, true to the real girl, was still sleeping) and out onto the balcony. She looked down and involuntarily shuddered. They were a long way up . . .

. . . which meant it was a long way down.

What to do? Hmmmm.

She recalled the entry from Dazzle’s diary. She turned around and yelled into the room, “Hey, Bl’azzz, get over here,” then she remembered and added, “Please.”

“What’s up?” said the F’yre Dragon.

“I won the race so my suit should be working again. But just in case, I want you to fly alongside me . . . like Kl’air did for Dazzle . . . and save me if the big cheese isn’t playing fair. Okay?”

“Sure. Let’s do it. But I’ll go first so I’ll be in position to catch you.” She leapt off the balcony and hovered there – flapping her wings just enough to keep herself aloft. “Your turn.”

“Here goes . . .” and Egg bounded off the edge and . . . became Flying Girl. “EPIC” she screamed to no one and to everyone. She did a few loop-d-loops, dove down, climbed high then landed. She was a little flush . . . not from flying but from the love of flying.

Bl’azzz landed next to her. “Welcome back to the friendly skies.”

“Gosh, I could never give that up.” The girl’s face looked angelic with the glow of happiness and satisfaction.

“What’s going on?”

“Morning Syl. I remembered that since I won the race, I should be able to fly again. Bl’azzz came along just in case the big cheese wasn’t going to pay off on her bet. But, she was true to her word.”

“That’s great. I just hated to think of you without the ability to fly. Like you said; it’s who you are.” (Serenity was laying it on a little thick, don’t you think?’)

“Yeah. Thanks. Anyway, if we’re all ready, I guess we should go down to the . . . um . . . um, the aerodrome. Why don’t they just call it an airport like normal people? Mysteria really didn’t say where we were supposed to meet her but that’s as good a place as any.”

“What about breakfast? It’s going to be a long day, I’m guessing.”

Egg started to agree with an “Oh, yeah” but instead changed it to “Oh my gosh” as all seven sisters were teleported from their room only to rematerialized on top of a mountain. Standing there to greet them was, of course, Mysteria.

This time she had some sort of weapon-like device in one hand and the gizmo that contained Tee’ka in the other. “So this is the infamous Hameggattic Sisterhood. Two puny dragons, three skinny humanoids, one butterfly and a sea worm . . . I was expecting something more impressive.” Her tone was condescending and dismissive.

“Hey, I’m no sea worm, you irritatingly, immature . . .,” but Soo couldn’t finish. Her mind had gone blank and she turned to Bl’azzz for help with the last ‘I’ word.

“Um . . . iguana?”

“Iguana, don’t be an imbecile, you belching bag of . . . oh. Imbecile, that’ll work. Thanks.”

“Just being a good sister.”

“Would you two shut up?” demanded Mysteria.

Soo whispered to her friend “I don’t think she likes my rapier-like wit.”

“Takes getting used to.”

“Okay, you guys. Let’s get serious.” Egg turned to Mysteria and asked, “How are Tee’ka and Jynx?” Then she added as harshly as she could, “And you better say they’re fine.”

“Don’t threaten me, Gracie, or I’ll turn you into a toad.”

“Who’s Gracie?” Bree asked Spirit.

“No idea. What’s a toad?”

“No idea.”

“Answer my question,” Egg demanded.

“Or what?” replied the masked girl haughtily. She knew she held all the cards, so to speak.

Egg was about to go ballistic so Sylvia put her hand on her friend’s shoulder to stop her. “Let me.” She stepped in front of the red-faced girl and said, “I’m Sylvia. As you requested, we’re here to participate in your challenge. In return, and in the name of common decency, please tell us how our two friends are.”

“No.”

Sylvia’s eyes grew wide and she started toward Mysteria. But it was Aeri’elle, using her sister’s distraction as an element of surprise, who leapt at the masked girl. Since this was part of Serenity’s plan, Mysteria had been expecting it. She casually looked up, tapped the gizmo in her hand and the dragon vanished into thin air.

Serenity had reasoned that Egg would be less reluctant to sacrifice the dragon since she had retired from the Sisterhood. After all, wasn’t that an act of betrayal? The poor girl, genius though she was, just didn’t have a clue about friendship in general nor the incredible bond between Egg and her sisters.

“HEY,” screamed Egg. “Stop doing that.”

“Bring her back,” hissed Soo.

“So help me, if you harmed one feather on her wings, I’m going to burp and burn you into a crispy critter,” eeked Bl’azzz.

“Would you all just shut up?” commanded Mysteria. “She’s fine. Tee’ka’s fine. Weird animal is fine. Happy?”

“No, we’re not happy,” came Egg’s reply.

Sylvia, always the diplomat, said, “Thank you for telling us.”

Mysteria made a face . . . though it was under her mask so no one saw it. “I can see why you two are best friends. You’re both sickeningly sweet.”

“How very gracious of you to say so,” came Syl’s sarcastic response.

“Just shut up,” was the rude reply.

“I’m getting bored with all this. So, let’s get this stupid competition going. What do we have to do?”

“For shame. Much too impatient. Willing and eager to put your sisters at risk just to have the chance to beat me. What a truly lousy leader you are.”

Egg ignored the insult . . . but continued to stare defiantly at her adversary.

“Alright. The first thing is . . . I want your flying suit.”

“What? NO.”

“It actually wasn’t a question . . . more like a statement of fact.” The girl took the long staff-like thingamajig and pointed it at Egg. “How about something casual?” Five girls gasped as a beam of light flashed out and engulfed their sister. A moment later, it cleared and there was Flying Girl – in jeans.

Egg looked down at herself then up at Mysteria. “That’s my suit. Give it back.”

“It seems to me you look a lot cuter in jeans. Well, less ugly at any rate. Don’t you think, girls?”

“Give it back.”

“Yeah. No. Not going to happen. But wasn’t it nice of me to give you one of the green scarves. When this is over and the rest of the sisterhood votes you out, I’m sure they’ll make you an honorary member . . . for old times’ sake.”

Egg huffed in disgust . . . not about the scarf thing, which was just dumb, but from losing her suit. “Let me guess. If I win, you’ll return the suit. I think I heard this song before.”

“What song?” asked Bl’azzz. “I don’t hear a song.”

“Must be one of those fandango songs she’s always talking about,” responded Soo helpfully.

“I still don’t hear it.”

“Maybe you have to be human.”

“Oh. That makes sense.”

Egg tried her best to ignore the dragon and serpent . . . but, at this moment, their silly banter was really annoying. “Would you guys please be quiet?”

“Sorry.”

“Me, too.”

Mysteria told Egg, “I should really keep it for myself. But . . . that would be stealing and I’m betting your Queen would raise quite a stink with the Empress. So, yeah . . . if you win, you get it back.”

“And if I lose?”

“As I said, I can’t keep it without a bunch of Royals going crazy. However, there’s something you should know about the Empress. She loves technology . . . the more advanced, the better. If I gave her this suit, she’d be one happy hobgoblin.”

“Hobgoblin?”

“Yeah. Don’t tell her I said that. She’s pretty weird to look at. Humanoid but just barely. Anyway, she would eventually return it to your Queen . . . but not until she could duplicate it.”

“That could take forever.”

“Maybe longer. So, best not to lose.”

It was no use arguing anymore . . . nothing they could say would make Mysteria change her mind.

Egg let out a discouraged sigh. “Tell us about the challenge.”

“Simple. You already did a nostalgic event and a surreal dream. Now you get to experience the last attraction . . . a high adventure. I’m going to leave your flying suit on an island down there in the lake in that valley,” and she pointed at a strip of blue in the far distance. “Just go get it.”

“That’s it? That’s your big challenge?”

“Don’t get your hopes up little girl. It may not be as easy as you think. There are a couple of details that might make it a tad more interesting. First, no flying. That’s one of the reasons for taking your suit. But it also applies to the dragon and butterfly. I’ll be following you the whole way. If I catch any of you up there,” and she pointed skyward, “I’m going to zap you with this thing,” and she shook the staff.

“What else?”

“Your friends are here to help you . . . but you, Egg of Earth, have to actually retrieve the suit.”

“Why?”

“My rules. Live with it. The last thing is that I’ve programmed this little adventure. You should be prepared for the unexpected. Just saying.”

“And just how do we prepare for the unexpected?”

“You can’t, obviously. I was just making small talk. Oh, that reminds me. On these adventures, guests can set the level of safety they want to experience. I thought that with the Sisterhood’s famous escapades and daring-do, you would want the protocols turned off. Unfortunately, they don’t allow it. But, they are set to extreme minimum. You can’t actually die or get too seriously injured, but anything else goes. [Serenity had decided to modify her plans to make it more believable to Egg]. However, if that’s what should happen, then I’ll intervene.”

“Meaning what?”

“It means that if one of you should have been seriously injured but the central computer stopped it from happening, I point this long stick at them, squeeze the trigger and hit them with a beam of coherent, super charged particles. The result is that they will be . . . how should I put this. They will be removed from the playing field . . . I believe that’s the appropriate earth term.”

“Like you did to Aeri’elle and the others?”

“Yes and no. The Shamie and the dragon are on my ship (actually, Jynx was on Serenity’s while the Aeri’elle avatar was destroyed since Serenity had no more use for it). And the hologram is in this device,” and she held up her hand. However, from this point forward, any one that I zap will be teleported to another world. They’ll be safe and unharmed . . . but a zillion light years from friends and family, so you should consider them as being permanently retired from the Sisterhood. You won’t be seeing them again. Ever.”

“Where exactly? What planet?” Egg assumed that with Spirit’s ship, the girls could be rescued easily enough.  Even if that wouldn’t work for some reason, there was always the space portal.

“Surprise . . . I’m not telling. I know all about her spaceship” and she pointed at the Thought Weaver.

Back on Serenity’s ship

The girl turned to her hostages and asked, “Want to guess what your leader will do if her dear Feminion gets into trouble? Do you think she would let her be injured or teleported across the galaxy never to be seen again? Or, maybe she would sacrifice a sea serpent and a dragon to save her best friend.  How about a Wind’dancer or Thought Weaver? How about all four?”

“Is that what this challenge is all about? Whether my best friend would sacrifice her other sisters to save me. That would never happen. Never.”

“Sylvia. Sylvia. How naïve you are. First of all, of course she’ll sacrifice the others to save you. But not out of love for her BFF. If you disappear, she’ll have to reveal who she is to her parents. More importantly to your parents. When that happens, I’m guessing Flying Girl will be grounded . . . as you earthlings like to say. Secondly, she’ll try to protect you . . . but if it comes to you or her flying suit, it will be bye-bye silly Syl...”

“For the sake of argument, let’s just say that some of that might be right. What you’re missing is that Egg will do anything to save Jynxie, Aeri’elle and Tee’ka. She feels responsible for their well-being. And, she knows the rest of us understand the danger we face when we became Hameggattic Sisters. If she has to lose one or more of us to save the other three, she will. And, I for one accept that decision.”

The other five girls all chimed in with their approvals.

“I’ll say it again. You are wrong . . . all of you. The Shamie is just an animal. Tee’ka is a hologram. And Aeri’elle chose her job over her sisters. The three of them mean nothing to your precious leader.”

“Wow. You may be super smart, but you are also super stupid,” responded Sylva. The others nodded their agreement.

Serenity frowned in frustration. This simply wasn’t going as planned. As far as these six were concerned, Egg could do no wrong . . . whatever the girl decided. She had to come up with something else.

She just couldn’t understand their loyalty. It was totally illogical and made no sense to her. Egg was so . . . so average. How did she do it? How did she lead these girls? What caused their undying, unwavering devotion and trust?

She had no idea.

But what Sylvia said about the three captives and Egg’s desire to help them rang true. So, first things first . . . she would eliminate this problem. She input some instructions into her control panel and sent them to Mysteria.

*****

Mysteria’s head jerked back ever so slightly as she received new instructions. “I’ll tell you what . . . just to be fair, I’ll give you back one of the three that I’m holding captive. This way you’ll have your precious, superstitious seven. Who do you want?”

“Why are you being nice?” Egg asked suspiciously.

“I promise you, nice has nothing to do with it. I told you before when you asked about the animal that you could have seven. Well, I’m just living up to my commitment. I’m actually being selfish . . . it’ll make it more satisfying when I win.”

“What happens to the two we don’t pick?”

“I’ll return them to your rooms. However, they won’t be able to leave.”

Egg was even more suspicious . . . this was way out of character. But, as the saying goes, don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. (I’m with you . . . that’s an incredibly stupid saying). “Give us a minute to decide,” and she walked a short distance away followed by her sisters.

“Aeri’elle,” said Bl’azzz immediately.

“No. She is definitely not going to be the one. I won’t let her risk her life on this stupid contest. She has a really important job to do back home (funny how Egg thought of Aerianna as home). In fact, if any of you want out, that’s okay with me.”

She grimaced as she was hit by five angry shouts from her outraged sisters.

“Sorry. Just had to put that out there.”

“Jynxie was such an amazing help to you in the air race. She would be awesome now, too,” suggested Spirit. “Besides, she’s an honorary sister. Her place is here with us.”

Chapter 3 – The Other Mobius

“Why are you so nervous?”

“First date with a guy I hardly know. A ton of guilt thinking about Brad, back home. This outfit makes me look fat. I’ve got a zit on my forehead. I’m a boring person with nothing to say. Oh, and he has the same name as my sister’s arch enemy.”

“Your sisters what?”

Ashley blushed. “Just kidding. I tend to babble when I get rattled.”

“You want me to come along . . . for moral support?” asked Mac.

“Would you? You’re a life saver.”

“NO. Are you nuts? I’m not going with you. How dumb would that be?”

“Then why did you ask?”

“I was mocking you. Didn’t realize I was being that subtle. Sorry.” To emphasize her point, she made a goofy face at her roommate.

“Shut up. You’re not helping.”

“I wasn’t trying to,” teased the other girl.

“Can you see the zit?” and Ashley moved a handful of bangs off of her forehead.

“Now I can.”

“I knew it. What about these jeans?”

“Haute Couture. Very chic.”

“No. Do they make me look fat?”

“Nothing can make you look fat . . . unless you stand next to me.”

“You’re still not helping.”

“Give me another chance.”

“What about me being boring?”

“Tell him my stories . . . but use your name instead of mine.”

“Can I?”

“No.”

“Last chance, roomie . . . what about my guilt over Brad?”

“Ashley, you decided to go to school in Berkeley instead of your state college because it was a couple of thousand miles away from you beau. Face it, subconsciously  you want to break up with him. Or, even better, have him break up with you.”

Ashley thought about that for a few seconds. “Is it that obvious?”

“Maybe you gave it away when you said he was a self-absorbed, egotistical jock with the intellect of a sea cucumber whose idea of a good time is to watch every college basketball game. Substitute baseball and football as appropriate.”

“At least he doesn’t watch soccer . . . that’s gotta be the worst sport ever. Borrrring.”

Mac, who was at Berkeley on a soccer scholarship, threw a pillow, a comb and a shoe at her roommate. “This conversation is officially over. Go. Leave. Save your razor-sharp wit for your date.”

“Just promise you’ll leave your cell phone on, okay?”

“I promise. Just don’t call me . . . or text.”

*****

At least she was fashionably late. As she approached the beautiful three hundred foot tall bell and clock tower, her heart was pounding and she could feel her face flush. If she started to sweat, she was done for. How gross would that be . . . meet the guy with pit stains on her blouse. Then she saw him and her first impulse was to flee. In fact, if she hadn’t grabbed hold of a park bench and hung on for dear life, her legs would have done just that . . . all on their own.

“Hi,” he called and waved.

Too late to take evasive action. Arm the photon torpedoes, Scotty, we’re going in. Why her mind thought of that silly Star Trek line was beyond knowing . . . unless it was a sign of her impending nervous breakdown.

“Hi,” she called back.

He strolled up and her heart skipped a beat. If he was good looking in a Fed Ex uniform, he was downright delectable in blue jeans and an old tweed jacket. Very collegiate. Walking up to her, he put his arms on hers and pulled her close. Her eyes flew open . . . but all he did was give her a friendly kiss (more of a peck) on her cheek. Releasing her, he took a half a step backwards (and out of her ‘personal’ space) and said, “You look great.”

“Liar,” she teased. He laughed good naturedly, and all of Ashley’s fears and trepidations evaporated. She exhaled, smiled then relaxed. Mobius or no Mobius, she was attracted to this guy. “But thank you,” she added. “You look so Ivy League. I like it.”

“I was going to wear my Fed Ex duds . . . I know how you ladies are attracted to men in uniform”.

“Personally, I prefer UPS . . . there’s something about the color brown that I find irresistible.” He grinned and that was the wrong thing to do. His face became so handsome that it took a monumental effort not to grab him and return his kiss . . . but on his lips. She felt herself flush and was glad it was too dark for it to show.

“So, did you want to go to the top?” and he pointed at the Campanile.

“Is that where you take all your dates?”

“Only the beautiful ones.” He said it with no trace of boasting or sarcasm, just pure sincerity.

She had to respond to the compliment but was afraid she would say something stupid like, “Other than Lord Z’kkk, you are the most handsome man in the galaxy.”

“What?”

Ashley’s eye flew wide again . . . she thought she had said that in her head. But apparently, she actually spoke it out loud. Good grief. Her mind raced through possible explanations that wouldn’t make her sound like a lunatic. After a few awkward seconds, she managed, “Sorry, it’s from a . . . a fantasy story that I’m writing. Well, about to write. Just putting my thoughts down on paper. It was a silly thing to say. Sorry.”

“Speaking of galaxies, can I let you in on a little secret?” He didn’t wait for an answer. “If I could, I would have majored in astronomy. I’m so totally fascinated with what’s up there,” and he pointed at the night sky. “I could be really passionate . . . correction, I am really passionate about the mysteries of the universe.”

He had to stop saying just the right things. A few more revelations like this and . . .” She forced herself to stop that train of thought since she was beginning to blush, flush and sweat. “So why don’t you study it?”

“No money to be made. Being passionate about the stars won’t bring home the bacon, so to speak. On the other hand, if I could, I would love to write about it. But, you know, make it a flight of fantasy as opposed to textbook type stuff. Good versus evil, a beautiful princess and her faithful dragon, alien cities and exotic technology . . . that kind of thing.”

“Have you ever written anything?”

“A few pages . . . but apparently I don’t have a great imagination.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“Why?”

Ashley laughed. “Anyone who could see the potential of picking up girls while working at a Fed Ex store has to have an incredible imagination.”

Aaron laughed. “I like your sense of humor.”

“I like your . . .” Drat. She was going to say face, personality and everything else about you. But that was probably a little forward of her. “. . . passion.”

“For all things intergalactic?”

“That too.” She lost the battle between her mind and her emotions. She grabbed him and kissed him on the lips . . . but only briefly. She was still a lady, after all.

“Well. Wow. Um . . .”

“And you’re articulate. Very appealing.”

“Girlfriend (just an expression but it gave her goose bumps), I think you are out of my league.”

“Probably. But, you have a few hours to try and catch up.”

“I take it you have a plan for the evening?”

“Up the Campanile, ooh and aah over the romantic sights then we find a coffee house and talk about space . . . the final frontier (“Good grief, another Star Trek reference. What a geek” she thought. Hopefully to herself.).

*****

It was called the Free Speech Movement Café. The name was great, the coffee good, but the ambiance lacked any charm. Still, it was perfect.

“I assume you know all about Mario Savio.”

“Of course. He was the guy that started the free speech movement. “Umm . . . ‘you've got to put your bodies upon the gears and upon the wheels, upon the levers, upon all the apparatus, and you've got to make it stop,” she quoted.

“Why am I not surprised that you knew that?”

“It’s kind of sad. Back in the 60’s, this place was the center of social change in this country. Hippies and free speech. Now, it’s a lot more . . . normal I guess you say. No more long haired protestors, no sit-ins, just your average college kids.”

“Yes and no. The social protests are a shadow of their former selves. But the University is now world class. Some surveys have it ranked higher than Harvard and Stanford. I take it as an honor to be here.”

“Again . . . very passionate.”

“Is that good or bad.”

“As long as it’s about the same things that I’m passionate about, it’s wonderful.”

He smiled wryly. “You’re not implying that if we disagree on a subject, my point of view would be wrong because you don’t share it?”

“You inferred incorrectly.” Then she teasingly added, “Well, mostly.”

They both paused to sip their coffees. They had already discussed  a number of topics – from the view on top of the Campanile, to the upcoming school year and the courses they were taking, home life and parents (he had no siblings), and now Berkeley’s infamous past.

A conversation about things like free speech and social issues was something that Ashley could never have with Brad. Even talking about her classes would have bored him silly.

“I like your bling,” and he pointed to the duplicate of Egg’s translation necklace around Ashley’s neck.

The girl fingered it as she had done a billion times before. “Thank you. It was a gift?”

“From a boyfriend?”

“No.”

“A relative then?”

Ashley smiled. “Yes, a relative. A very distant relative.”

“So tell me about the story you’re going to write.”

“The story?” she had already forgotten what she had told him.

“Yeah. About a galaxy far, far away (now he was quoting from Star Wars. What a nerd.).

“Oh, yeah. Well . . .” then she stopped. Instead of telling him about Aerianna, her sister and all the rest, she decided to test his imagination . . . or lack thereof. This could be fun. “Um . . . no.” She smiled mysteriously.

“No? Why not. Think I might steal your idea and write it myself?” His eyes were twinkling.

“I have a better idea. I’m going to give you some information . . . some of the plot. But I want you to figure out where the story goes. See if your imagination matches mine.”

“Yikes. I’m being tested. And it’s only our first date. Do you grade on a curve?”

“No curve. Pass or fail. And, what makes you think there will be more than one date?” She tried to look indignant but failed miserably.

“I accept the pass/fail grading. As to future dates, . . . some things are meant to be. Who are we to stand in the way of fate?”

She rolled her eyes. “Oh, that was lame.”

“What?” he protested in mock indignation.

“Lame and you know it. Try again . . . but be more imaginative.”

“Alright. How about . . . I’ve never felt more comfortable and compatible with anyone than I do you.” He paused then added, “And on a more shallow note, I find your looks to be . . .,” he smiled from ear to ear, “. . . acceptable.”

“Acceptable. Wow and Oh my gosh. You’re sweeping me off my feet,” and she started to laugh. Aaron joined in and neither could stop until the other patrons gave them a few ‘shushes’.

They dried their eyes then looked at each other. Aaron reached across the table and took Ashley’s hand. “I will ask you out again. And, if you say no, you will break my heart and send me into a deep depression. I don’t think you could live with that guilt weighing on your soul.”

“Much better. See . . . you do have an imagination.”

“Then you’ll go out with me again?”

“Since this date isn’t over yet, you’re still on probation. However, you’ll be pleased to know that your performance so far has been . . . acceptable. Keep up the good work and perhaps you’ll be rewarded with a ‘yes’ when you ask me out again.”

“Fair enough. So, tell me some of the plot to your story and I’ll see if I can figure out the rest.”

“Okay. So there’s a girl who’s very close to her grandmother. One day the older woman takes her up to the attic in her turn-of-the century farmhouse. Inside a musty old chest is a flying suit and three pieces of jewelry with powers that no one’s been able to figure out. Anyway . . .” and Ashley went on to tell him the story of Flying Girl. Well, the first part of the story. She left out key elements to see if Aaron could figure it out.

He wasn’t as quick as Ashley had been. But, he did eventually ask the right questions and came to the correct conclusions.

“Very, very good. I’m impressed.”

“Not as dumb as I look, am I?”

“I wouldn’t go quite that far. Let’s just say that for a man you show remarkable intuition and imagination.”

“So I passed?”

“With flying colors. Do you think it would make a good story? And don’t you dare say yes just to flatter me.”

“Fair enough. I . . . um . . . like most of it. The part that doesn’t feel right is that the heroine is nine years old. That sounds more implausible than the flying suit or jewelry.”

“You never met my sister.”

Aaron scrunched his face. ”What does that have to do with anything?”

“If you knew her when she was nine, you would have said something like ‘She’d make a perfect Flying Girl.’”

“I thought sisters were notorious for not getting along. Sounds like you and . . . um, Flying Girl . . . are close.”

“We are. But please, don’t call her Flying Girl. Her name is Egg.”

“No way. Your parents named their kid Egg? Sorry, that’s just weird.”

“Those are her initials, dummy.”

“I knew that.”

“Liar. Anyway, it’s late. Would you walk me back to the dorm?”

A few minutes later, they were at the gate to the dorm complex. Both were a little nervous since this would be the time for a goodnight kiss.

“Well, I had a great time, Aaron.”

“Can I call you again?”

“You’d better.”

They stared at each other . . . but nothing happened.

*****

Ashley got back to her room, opened the door, stepped inside then slammed it shut.

Mac, who was watching YouTube or some other viral video, yelped at the noise. “What happened? Are you okay?”

“Am I okay? Am I okay? No. I’m not okay. I’m . . . I’m . . . I’m in love.”

Her roomie smiled knowingly. “Must have been some goodnight kiss.”

“Oh my gosh . . . yes. Yes, it was.”

Chapter 4 –GO

The Mountains above Fair’Giggle

Serenity didn’t want the Shamie. .  something she had no control over . . . to be part of the contest. And though it was only temporary, she could manipulate the hologram to some extent.  So using reverse psychology, which she was sure would work on that simple-minded Egg, she had Spirit’s avatar suggest Jynx.

But it didn’t work and Egg said. “She’ll be great.”

Up on the ship, Serenity cursed under her breath. She hurriedly typed some more commands into the control pad and sent them on their way.

“Bad idea,” hissed Soo. “No offense, Spirit.”

“None taken.”

“Why is that a bad idea?”

Before the serpent could respond, Sylvia interceded. “She’s right, Egg. We should have Tee’ka not Jynx.”

“Again, why?”

Serenity didn’t have time to formulate an excuse. All she could do was hope that Egg would listen to her Feminion. “I just think Tee’ka will be more helpful than a shape-shifting pet. Trust me on this.”

Spirit joined in with, “You’re right, Sylvia. I was just being selfish in wanting Jynxie by my side. Sorry Egg.”

“Butterfly and Burpie . . . do you agree with them?”

“Yes” and “Yup.”

Egg went quiet as she studied the faces of the other girls. Deep in her mind, some strange things that had happened were begging for her attention. The way the six had talked without using contractions. Weird suggestions by Syl about coffee. Soo trying to rhyme instead of using words that began with the same letter. Even Sera’Fina . . . she had referred to BreeZee as a butterfly. But when Egg asked, she said she had never heard of the insect. Tee’ka’s wand was always turning red. And now they all were trying to get her not to take Jynx. Curiouser and Curiouser.

What would Ashley do? She decided to try something that she thought would meet with her sister’s approval. “Sorry, guys, I’m going to overrule you on this one. Spirit was right the first time; Jynxie saved us in the air race. She deserves to be here . . . honorary sister and all that.”

If they agreed, then it was just her imagination.

But they didn’t.

All five started to protest . . . and way too loudly. Spirit finally quieted them down and said, “Sorry Egg. I know it’s your right as our leader. But Jynx is my pet. I must insist she not be put in harm’s way. You understand, don’t you?”

Not only did they not go along with Egg; Spirit had just called Jynx her pet. She had never done that before. She always referred to the Shamie as her companion. And, come to think of it, Sylvia also said pet . . . she would never be that inconsiderate.

Egg needed time to consider the implications. But, in the meantime, all she could do was say, “Sure. I understand. ”She turned to Mysteria and said “I’ll take Tee’ka.”

“Whatever.” The masked girl pressed the device in her hand and the hologram came swirling out looking very confused.

“You okay, Tee?”

“I . . . I think so. Though to be honest, I don’t remember what happened.”

Egg explained.

“If you would like, I can return all of us to our rooms. There is no need to participate in this challenge. It is unsanctioned. More importantly, I have been informed that the safety protocols have been set to extreme minimum. This may very well be dangerous for all of you.”

Before Egg could answer, Mysteria barked, “Go ahead, you freaky thing. Try it. Transport them out of here, I dare you.”

“Hey, I’m not going to warn you again. Don’t talk to her like that.”

“Or what?”

If she had a dodge ball, Egg would have planted one right in the middle of Mysteria’s face. But she didn’t . . . so she just stood there fuming.

“Thank you yet again, Egg. But please, I beg you; don’t put yourself in harm’s way on my behalf.”

“Tee, give it a try. See if you can get us out of here.”

“As you wish,” said Tee’ka.  She waved her wand and the tip turned red. “Please enjoy your adventure. I’m sure it will be most entertaining.”

Egg hadn’t expected any other outcome . . . if for no other reason than it would have been too easy. The reason she had asked Tee’ka to try was so she could  watch Mysteria. Tee’ka’s wand had turned red but the masked girl had done nothing to cause it to do so. Someone else had. And another piece of the puzzle clicked into place.

*****

“Okay, let’s get going. Tee, while you’re a hologram, you can’t get hurt, can you?”

“Hurt? No, Egg. I know of nothing that could injure me. In this form, I am simply a projection.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought. So, how about you take the lead. You can . . .”

“STOP.”

Everyone turned to look at Mysteria. “That would be cheating. You . . .” she pointed at Tee’ka, “take a solid form.”

“That wasn’t one of your rules,” complained Egg.

“Technically, it was. As a hologram, she’d be flying, though only a foot or so above the ground.”

“Now you’re just trying to be irritating. Congrats . . . you’ve got that down to a science.”

“Never expected you to give me such a nice compliment. However, that doesn’t change anything. Either she becomes solid or I zap her back into her cage. Your choice.”

Instead of getting mad, Egg felt a wave of calm settle over her. All of her competitive juices were beginning to flow. She was going to beat this masked girl if it was the last thing she ever did. Even Mobius had never made her half as angry as she was now. Well, take that back . . . maybe half.

“Tee, could you be injured if you turn solid?”

The answer was yes but the hologram lied . . . it was the first time in her existence that she had ever done that. “No, Egg. Please allow me to take the lead, as you phrased it. It would be my honor.”

Egg’s goose bumps told her that Tee’ka wasn’t being truthful. However, she couldn’t call her out on it . . . her friend would be embarrassed in front of the Sisterhood. “Okay. But, come with me,” and she started walking away from the others.

“Where you going?” called Sylvia.

“Just want to give Tee some advice . . . give us a minute.”

“If you seven don’t get a move on, I’m going to zap all of you,” complained Mysteria.

“Oh, shut up, would you please? Come on Tee, follow me.”

They walked a couple of dozen paces and out of earshot of the others. “Do me a favor. Send a copy of yourself to Spirit’s ship.”

“Why, if I may ask.”

“Humor me.” Egg didn’t want to challenge her friend’s statement about being immune from injury. It was obviously important to Tee’ka to feel like she was part of the team . . . to be a sister if only for a short period of time. And though she wasn’t sure what good a back-up copy of the girl would do . . .  it made her feel better.

“Of course. This will take a few seconds” and she winked out of existence then back again. “It is done.”

“Let me see your wand.”

Tee’ka held it up. The tip was not red.

“Let’s go back.”

“Egg.”

“Yeah, Tee?”

“Thank you. That was very considerate of you.” She had understood what her friend was trying to do . . . even if it would probably have no effect.

Egg smiled but said, “No idea what you’re talking about.”

They rejoined the others. “Okay, listen up. Tee’ka goes first, me second. Soo next. Syl, Spirit and Bree with Bl’azzz in the rear. Keep your eyes open . . . and don’t ask me for what.”

*****

Back on Serenity’s ship, everyone had watched the discussion between Egg and Tee’ka. However, one thing bothered the sisters and Sylvia asked Serenity the unspoken question. “Egg thinks Tee’ka could be harmed in her solid form. Do you know why? Won’t the safety protocols protect her?”

Lost in thought, the one-eyed girl didn’t answer right away. Why would Egg do what she did? It made no sense. If the hostess was damaged beyond repair, Fair’Giggle would simply replace it. Even if she weren’t, there was no way for her to ever leave this planet. Egg had nothing to gain by having the artificial life form make a back-up copy of herself. The only answer she could come up with was that it was a misguided act of kindness. But . . . but that couldn’t be right.

“Serenity?”

“What? Oh. She’s a hologram.  Even when solid she is not a natural life form recognized by the central computer. So the safety protocols won’t apply to her. If she were an avatar, then it would be different.”

“So she could get hurt.” It wasn’t a question, just a statement.

“Hurt? More than that . . . she could be destroyed.”

The girls gasped. “Then stop this contest right now. You can’t let that happen.”

Serenity was confused and that made her angry. “That’s up to Egg . . . not me.”

*****

As they headed down the mountain, Mysteria walked up to Egg and fell in step with the girl.

“What do you want?”

“Nothing. Just thought I take this opportunity to see the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood in action while I have the chance.”

Egg ignored the remark. “Answer me one question.”

“Maybe.”

“Why the mask? Don’t tell me you’re horribly disfigured?” she said half-kiddingly.

“Sorry. Cute as a button. However, I wanted to make a fashion statement.”

“You’re not only a whacko; you’re just plain strange.”

“Now, now. No need to be insulting. Unless . . . unless, it’s a sign that you’re scared. You can tell me, your secret is my secret.” It was such a blatant lie and Egg almost laughed.

Instead, she replied, “Any time I put my sisters in danger, I get scared.” She turned around to the girls behind her and said, “I’m scared. If any of you get hurt because of the stupid flying suit, I’ll never forgive myself. So, be careful. Don’t do anything dumb.” She turned back to the masked girl. “Now go away.”

“Words. Nothing but empty words to deceive. It won’t be long till the real truth comes out.” She stopped abruptly and the seven other girls passed her by.

They walked in silence for a few minutes until Egg turned to Soo. “What do you think? Should I wear a cool mask like hers?”

“I always thought that a mask was worn over your eyes or your whole face . . . not your mouth. That seems woefully weird and wildly whimsical.”

“Good point.” After a second or two, she added, “But it really is way cute.”

*****

“Egg”. The artificial girl came to a stop.

“Yeah, Tee?”

“Did you hear that?”

“Hear what?”

“It sounded like something braying. And there were loud thumps.”

“I felt the thumps,” confirmed Soo who had caught up to them. Since most of her body was in contact with the earth, she was more sensitive to ground vibrations.

The other girls joined them. “What’s up?” asked Sylvia.

“Go ahead Tee, tell them.”

“Of course.” It might have been Egg’s imagination, but it seemed like the girl puffed up with pride. After all, she was now one of them . . . a member, albeit a temporary one, of the Sisterhood. As importantly, she was doing her job as the individual in the lead . . . warning the others of potential danger. “I believe I heard an animal bray . . . followed by loud thumps.”

“Bray . . . only donkeys bray,” observed Sylvia. “And they’re not dangerous.”

“Donkey?” asked Bl’azzz.

“Earth animal, four legs about yea high. Not very bright but can carry a lot of stuff.”

“That is probably not what made the sound,” suggested Spirit. “If it’s not dangerous, what would be its purpose?”

“I agree,” said BreeZee. “So what else could make that sound? It almost certainly has to be an Earth creature since this is about you, Egg. Or, maybe something you met in the seven lands.”

“No idea. Something scary that brays . . . got nothing.”

“Fiddlesticks”. Everyone turned to Sylvia. “Braying sound, large thumps . . . that could describe a . . . a dinosaur.”

“Dinosaur?”

“Think four legged dragon with the brain the size of a grape, a sour disposition and an insatiable hunger for meat. Very mean, very scary.”

“What do we do?” asked Bl’azzz.

“I have a suggestion.” They looked at Mysteria. “One of you could distract it while the others make their escape. Needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one.”

“Oh, please,” groaned Sylvia. “That bit of ridiculous logic was from Spock in a Star Trek movie. And before anyone asks, a movie is a form of entertainment that you get to watch from the safety of a big, comfortable chair while you eat popcorn and drink a red Slurpee.”

“What’s she talking about?” Bl’azzz asked Soo “. . . popcorn, Slurpee?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” replied her friend.

The dragon was about to say “no” but realized she was being kidded. “Now that you mention it . . .”

“Sylvia,” said Tee’ka, “it may be faulty logic, but it does merit discussion. Egg, I would be pleased to lure the creature away from you and the rest.”

“Tee, that’s not how we do things. No one sacrifices themselves . . . unless it’s positively and absolutely the last resort. We’re nowhere near that point.” Then she added, “But thanks for volunteering. That’s very brave of you.”

Tee’ka bowed her head slightly at the compliment.

“I hate to be a party pooper . . .,” said the masked girl calmly.

“Yeah, right.”

“But, whatever was making that noise . . .,” and she stopped just to be annoying.

“Well . . .,” said an exasperated Egg.

“I think maybe it’s that time.”

“What time? What are you talking about?”

“Last resort time. Look,” and she pointed at a thicket of trees.

It was a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Somehow, the big, lumbering monster had crept up on the group without making a sound. Until now. It brayed a high-pitch, trumpeting sound . . . definitely not anything like a donkey.

“Oh my gosh. Run. Everyone . . . run.”

“Soo can’t outrun it,” yelled Sylvia. Serpents could slither fairly fast . . . but not that fast and not for very long. (Serenity was expecting Egg to tell the sea serpent to stay behind . . . to give herself to the beast to save the others. After all, she was the weakest link . . . at least at this point).

“You guys go,” and Egg took a few steps toward the creature waving her arms and screaming at the top of her lungs to get its attention.

But someone pushed her aside and she fell to her knees.

She looked up to see Tee’ka running straight at the T. Rex. “Egg, make your escape. Hurry.”

“Tee, NO.”

“You are more important than I. Please, go.”

“TEE’KA,” Egg yelled as the beast’s giant head came down . . . its mouth opening wide.

“I love you, Egg. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my friend. For caring about me.”

The gigantic jaws of the T. Rex closed on the girl. The beast lifted its head then turned back to the trees with its meal hanging from its mouth.

Chapter 5 – STOP

“NOOOOOOOOOOO.”

The blood-curdling scream stopped the other girls in their tracks. They turned to see Egg on her knees but happily, if unexpectedly, the T. Rex was turning to leave.

A heartbeat later, they were shocked when Egg jumped up then started to run after the great beast . . . all the while screaming “LET HER GO. LET HER GO.”

Since the dinosaur was in no great hurry now that it had secured its meal, Egg easily caught up to it. She started to kick at its tail then pound her fist against its huge hind legs . . . but to no avail. It was doubtful the lumbering beastie even knew he was being attacked by the puny human.

Frantic that it would get away, Egg looked around for a weapon. All she could find was a branch that the creature had broken off one of the trees. She picked it up, swung it with all her might, and hit the T. Rex in its exposed soft belly. Startled, it looked down to see what had caused the pain. To Egg’s horror, Tee’ka was dangling from its mouth like an old rag doll.

“LET HER GO. LET HER GO.”

Probably not understanding English, or at least too macho to do as the girl requested, the dinosaur simply flicked its tail and launched Egg about twenty feet in the air. She landed with a thump, the wind knocked out of her and her mind trying not to lose consciousness. Satisfied the pest was not going to return, the T. Rex sauntered back into the trees and disappeared.

The other girls came running up to their fallen comrade who was face down and not moving. The Sylvia avatar knelt beside her pseudo-friend and cradled her head in her lap. “Egg. Egg. Can you hear me? Egg.”

“Ohhhhh”.

“Egg, where does it hurt? Is anything broken?”

The girl slowly regained most of her wits, looked around and saw only her sisters’ friendly faces. But no T. Rex and no Tee’ka. She startled the girls by sitting bolt upright and shouting, “It’s got Tee’ka. We gotta go find her. Come on.” She tried to stand up but was way too wobbly and fell back down with an oomph.

“Take it easy. You’re in no condition to be going anywhere.”

“SYL . . . we have to save Tee’ka. Help me up.”

The other girl put her hand on her friend’s shoulder . . . both to keep her from trying to do something that was pointless and to offer her a little solace. “Egg . . . Tee’ka is gone.”

Misunderstanding her Feminion, the girl said with a huff, “I know she’s gone. We have to go get her back. To save her from that monster. Come on, every second counts.”

No one moved . . . they all looked at the ground to avoid eye contact with their sister. (You just have to give major kudos to Serenity. These avatars were good). Egg saw what they were doing . . . or not doing. But her mind still couldn’t accept the obvious. “What?”

No one wanted to be the one to say it . . . so Mysteria did. Almost gleefully, but definitely disrespectfully, she said, “She gone as in ‘out to lunch’. Unfortunately, she was the main course. Congratulations, Flying Girl, it took you less than five minutes to lose one of your friends. Of course, she wasn’t a Hameggattic Sister so I guess her loss doesn’t mean as much . . . if anything.”

Egg took a few seconds to digest what she had just heard. When it finally struck home, she went nuts. Between the loss of Tee’ka and the smug way the girl delivered the news, Egg shot up ignoring the pain in her leg, which was bleeding, and dove at the masked girl.

Mysteria was so surprised by the unexpected action that she had no time to react. Egg caught her around the waist and knocked her to the ground. She pulled her right hand back, made a fist . . . but she just couldn’t do it. She wanted to pummel the girl but that just wasn’t who she was. Instead, she reached down and pulled off Mysteria’s mask.

“Cute as a button – Ha. If I had that face I’d wear a mask too.” It wasn’t much of an insult, and it definitely wasn’t as satisfying as administering a proper thumping, but it still felt good.

“Get off me.”

“Sure” but as she started to move off the other girl’s stomach, she twirled and grabbed the device from her hand. “Souvenir, thanks.” She tossed it behind her and Sylvia caught it. “I’ll take that stick thing too.”

“Like heck you will.”

“Bl’azzz, come over here please.”

“Yeah, Egg.”

“Put your foot on her chest. Don’t let her up.”

“Should I do a little dance . . . just for fun?”

“No. Don’t hurt her. I need to grab that other thing from her.” The dragon did as she was told and Egg reached over and twisted the weapon from Mysteria’s hand. “Thanks.” Egg stood up, stepped back a few feet and handed the staff to BreeZee. “Let her up.”

Bl’azzz removed her talon and Mysteria stood up.

“It doesn’t matter,” said the unmasked girl. “You still have to get your flying suit. Nothing’s changed.”

“Maybe. However, we can now fly there. Probably avoid all sorts of nasty creatures.”

“Wow, you are stupid. Look,” and Mysteria pointed skyward.

“Rats.” Egg was about to say something nasty but then she remembered why she had attacked the girl in the first place. The memory of her friend dangling from the dinosaur’s mouth made her nauseous. “Oh my gosh. Oh, Tee’ka, I’m so sorry.” She fell to her knees, ignoring the gash on her right one, and began to cry uncontrollably.

The other girls sat down around their friend, about an arms-length away. They said nothing . . . they wanted to give her as much time as she needed to release her grief.

After a good ten minutes, Egg wiped her eyes with her hand, her nose with her sleeve and turned to the others. “I can’t go on.”

That’s not what Serenity wanted. So, Syl said, “Don’t let Tee’ka’s sacrifice be in vain. Take a few minutes before we start again. Okay?”

“Okay,” came the mumbled reply.

Then something unexpected happened. The BreeZee avatar made a major mistake. Think of it as a glitch in Serenity’s software program. “Spirit, Egg’s knee is bleeding and I’m sure it must hurt. Why don’t you heal it for her?”

The problem was that Serenity had no way to give the avatar the power to heal. Or to see the future, for that matter. Those were completely beyond the technology at her disposal. Just to get it to communicate by telepathy took a monumental effort.

“That would be great,” said Egg. “It does hurt.” She looked at Spirit expectantly.

“I . . . I . . . um . . . I’m so sorry Egg. But with the tragic loss of Tee’ka, my mind isn’t as focused as it should be. Perhaps later.”

Click. In Egg’s mind, another piece of the puzzle seemed to fall into place.

“Sure, I understand. No problem.” But that triggered yet another thought . . . something she had seen but didn’t have a chance to process at the time. She turned to the dragon and asked “Hey, Bl’azzz. When we saw that T. Rex, it was pretty scary wasn’t it. Pretty ferocious monster.”

“Yeah, very. Why?”

“You didn’t burp and burn. You always burp and burn when you’re startled. Why not this time?”

The F’yre dragon shrugged. She couldn’t very well tell the girl it was another problem with Serenity’s software. “I just forgot, I guess.”

Click.

*****

Serenity’s Ship

Everyone had watched the scene unfold. The T. Rex attack, Egg trying to distract it, Tee’ka sacrificing herself, Egg charging and disarming Mysteria, Egg crying her heart out at the loss of her new friend . . . and the mistakes by Spirit and Bl’azzz.

The sisters had cried along with Egg. The loss of Tee’ka – her act of selfless bravery – was terrible to watch. Awful to contemplate. Impossible to accept.

Serenity, too, had tears in her one good eye. Her world had always been one of logic and reasoning. Of rational thought and deep intellectual analysis. There were almost no sentimental expressions. Even her mother, whom she loved to the point of worship, had seldom shown an emotional side to her daughter. It was illogical.

But an artificial life form had willingly and voluntarily sacrificed herself to save Egg and the others. She had known them for only a few days. How was it possible that she had formed such an attachment in such a short a time? What magic had Egg used to win her over so completely?

And, if Tee’ka was just another tool that Egg was using to achieve her own ambitions, why was she so obviously devastated by the girl’s loss?

Unless . . . unless . . .

Serenity turned to her captives. “Do you finally understand what I’m talking about? Did you see the blatant way your dear leader faked her sorrow at the loss of the hostess just to confuse the others into thinking she really cared? She doesn’t. She was using Tee’ka like she uses the rest of you. She manipulates each of you with this phony show of love and caring. She is the worst kind of exploiter. She preys on your innate goodness.”

She stopped only because she was out of breath. The words had tumbled out of her mouth in a torrent. She was vindicated. She had been right all along. She had won.

“I have had enough of this,” Spirit told her sisters. “It is time.” To the Shamie (who was on her back, gently snoring) she said, “Jynx, do not look at me. Just listen carefully to what I am about to tell you. Egg is in trouble as are the rest of us. I want you to do the following . . . but not until I say go,” and she proceeded to give her companion detailed instructions.

When she finished, she told Sylvia, “Talk to Serenity. Give her something to think about; something that will distract her from us. From Jynxie.”

Tap.

“Serenity.”

“Yes, Feminion?”

“Your analysis was wrong as usual, but be that as it may, you made a fatal mistake. Two, actually. Spirit’s inability to heal was so obviously out of character that Egg won’t fail to notice. Heck, our exotic alien sister healed Aeri’elle and the Princess during a firestorm. Then there’s our beloved F’yre Dragon. Bl’azzz not burping when the T. Rex roared . . . not good. Major error.”

“She’s right. They don’t call me gasbag for nothing. But . . . they do it with love and affection.”

“Heck, if she didn’t burp and burn,” added Soo, “she’d be one dreadfully dull dragon.”

“As always, you all give Egg too much credit. She’ll never connect the dots . . . never see the big picture of my plan. Without her Feminion’s brain, she just isn’t that clever. Watch. I expect her to miraculously recover from her grief and resume her quest for the suit.”

But the seed of doubt had been planted and the one-eyed girl was now totally focused on the doings back on the mountain . . . her back turned to the sisters. And to Jynxie.

*****

Egg looked at Mysteria. “This little adventure is over. I’m going back.”

“Then you’ll forfeit your suit.”

“Don’t care.”

The now unmasked girl glanced at BreeZee who was holding the staff-like weapon and nodded. She lunged and pretended to grapple it away from the unsuspecting Wind’dancer.

“Egg,” the winged girl yelped.

Egg turned around to see Mysteria, mask back in place, with the weapon pointing at BreeZee. “You’re going to continue or this butterfly is gone.”

“What’s a butterfly?”

“What?”

“What’s a butterfly?”

“I have no idea.”

“But you keep calling her that. Why?”

“Why? Because she looks like one.”

“Really. But you just said you had no idea what one was.”

Mysteria stood there, eyes blinking rapidly. Up on the ship, Serenity was racking her brain trying to come up with an answer.

“Tell you what. Zap her.”

BreeZee cried, “What?”

“Zap her. Sorry . . . butterfly girl. You messed up and let Mysteria take back the weapon. Shame on you.”

“Egg, what are you saying?” asked Sylvia.

Ignoring her best friend, Egg said to Mysteria. “Zap them all.”

That was greeted by a chorus of “WHAT’s.”

“None of you are my sisters. No idea what you are . . . maybe the big cheese has messed with your minds. I felt it from the time I came out of that stupid dream thing. Then afterward, there was a whole bunch of stuff that was out of character. And now, Spirit can’t heal and Bl’azzz can’t burp. Oh my gosh, give me a break. So, whoever is doing all this . . . and I don’t think it’s you, Mysteria . . . you can have them. I’m not playing anymore.” She turned and started to walk away.

“What about Tee’ka?”

Egg turned back and stared at the masked girl. “Whoever did this to her is going to pay . . . if it’s the last thing I ever do.”

*****

Serenity was horrified. Her whole plan was unraveling before her eyes. She started to pound away at the keyboard to send new instructions to her avatars. Absorbed as she was, she never heard or felt the Shamie.

Jynx shifted into a snake-like creature . . . and the obedience collar fell off.

She then shifted into a likeness of AyBee. She sent her eight arms shooting out much like she had done during the air race. One arm grabbed Serenity’s left hand, another her right, then both legs, and two encircled her head just in case she could issue commands by moving it. The two remaining hands covered her eyes and her mouth. Again, it was to insure she couldn’t give commands with either.

She couldn’t move, talk or anything else.

Unfortunately, the girls were still trapped in their chairs.

Stalemate. Nobody wins.

*****

On the Spirit’s Ship Seven

When the Seven was put into a parking orbit, it wasn’t shut down like you would do for a car in a parking lot. The computer had to stay on to manage a number of functions . . . fire the engines to insure that the ship stayed in its proper orbit, protect it from meteors or unauthorized entry, repair any systems that might fail and to beam up any of the crew that wished to return.

If anyone had been on board, they would have noticed that it sent a transmission from an archived file to a sub-system in Laff’Alott’s central computer.

This was followed by a rapid succession of signals to and from the ship to the planet and back again.

A minute or so later, on an island in the middle of a lake, a suit made of serpent’s crystals dematerialized.

Seconds later, on a mountaintop outside of Fair’Giggle, Egg’s five phony sisters collapsed to the ground . . . making no sound at all. It was as if they had been turned off.

A heartbeat later, Mysteria staggered . . . but didn’t fall. When she regained her balance, she called to Egg who was thirty or forty feet away. “Egg, wait.”

Egg was about to say something nasty . . . but didn’t. Her mind was racing, followed by her heartbeat. It was the voice. She turned around, looked at the masked girl, and said, “Tee’ka?”

Chapter 6 – To Fly

In the Mountains back on Earth

“So, what shall we talk about first?” asked Grammy.

“Well, as an ex-navy officer, I’ve done a fair bit of traveling as you might guess. There isn’t a continent I haven’t explored, a sea I haven’t sailed and a port I’ve haven’t visited. I’ve got as many stories as you could hope for.”

“My, my. Such a man of the world. Can I presume that there was a young lady in each of those port-of-calls?”

Ezra laughed. “Not everyone. What about you . . . have you done much traveling?”

Grammy startled her friend by barking a very loud laugh. She put her hand over her mouth and blushed. “Sorry.”

“What was so funny?”

“I . . . I’ve had opportunities to travel to some very far and unusual places.” She, of course, was thinking of Aerianna.

“Really? Where?”

“That’s one secret that I may not be able to reveal. At least, not for a while,” she answered mysteriously.

“Don’t tell me you’re a spy. Clandestine missions to exotic lands . . . James Bond secret agent stuff.”

“Do I look like a secret agent?”

He gave her an exaggerated ‘once-over’. “Well, I’m no expert but you do have a certain air of mystery about you. It’s the eyes I think . . . very wise, all knowing. Eyes that have seen things no mere mortal on Earth has ever seen. Yup, definitely a spy.”

“Well, I’ll give you points for being partially right.”

“Really? Which part?”

“Sorry. My lips are sealed. I promised the Queen I would never tell.” She was referring to Rose’Alynnia but Ezra naturally assumed it was a reference to the Queen of England – someone James Bond would defer to.

“Now I’m intrigued. How do I get you to break your silence and tell me everything?”

He was half-joking but Grammy answered with all seriousness. “Perhaps in time.”

That response only served to pique his interest even more. But he wasn’t going to push her to give up her secrets before she was ready. “Well, then you leave me no choice. So, this is on you.”

“What is on me?”

“I have no alternative but to bore you with hours and hours of stories from my misguided youth to my wise old age. So, where shall I begin?”

“Like all good stories, one must always begin at the beginning.”

“Ah, very wise.” His face lit up with a mischievous smile as he began his tale. “I was born on a cold winter’s day in the wee hours of the morning . . .”

“Stop.”

“Excuse me?”

“Not that beginning. Why don’t we jump ahead to the first time you set sail?”

“Are you sure? I was a very precocious baby. Did you know that I was potty trained by two . . . that’s an exceptional accomplishment.”

Grammy laughed again. “You are incorrigible. I will stipulate that you were a child prodigy and an extraordinary infant. But, I’m not getting any younger and I’d prefer to skip to the interesting part of your story. I presume there is an interesting part?”

“Ouch. Of course, there’s an interesting part. Maybe more than one.”

“Then get to it man. We’re losing daylight,” she teased.

“As you command, my lady. Let’s see, where shall I begin? Okay . . . here’s a little known fact about me. After spending twenty years in the Navy, my first love is not sailing but flying.”

“Really? Seems a bit strange.”

“I tried to get into naval aviation but I didn’t qualify. Those guys are really extraordinary aviators. I was only good . . . well, very good. Just not good enough. So I settled for a life at sea. However, in my off hours, I earned a private pilot’s license. Then, I built a replica of 1930’s era biplane. It’s called the Bird. Here, let me show you a picture,” and he reached for his wallet.

Grammy was going to tease him about carrying a picture of an airplane but decided not to. It was obviously something very important to him and she didn’t want to trivialize it.

“Here she is . . .,” and he handed her the photograph. “I call her ‘My Flying Gal’.

She stared in amazement . . .  very impressed and totally shocked. “You built this?”

“I did. I found the plans in an air museum and was able to make a copy. She took me over five years to complete. I’m pretty proud of her.”

“Well, you should be. It’s beautiful. And the name? How did you choose Flying Gal?”

“Is it too chauvinistic? I would have called her Flying Lady . . . but that sounds like a horse ranch,” and he chuckled at his own joke.

“So there was no particular significance to it?”

“Actually, it’s a take on The Flying Girl, a novel written by Frank Baum, the author of the Wizard of Oz. Have you read it?’

“I have not . . . though heaven knows that I should.”

Ezra didn’t pick up on Grammy’s unusual emotion. Instead, he said, “Let me give a quick summary without spoiling the plot for you. It’s the story of Orissa, the sister of Steve Kane who is building his own flying machine. When he suffers a broken leg in a crash and can’t fly, Orissa takes his place to prove the validity of his aircraft design. She ends up demonstrating her own courage and competence in the process, winning the top prize in an aerial exhibition.”

“I will definitely read it. Well, I approve of the name . . . though, from a personal preference, Flying Girl would have been better than Gal.”

“I didn’t want to use Baum’s title so I changed it.”

“Very considerate. Where is the plane hangared?”

“Actually, it’s how I got here. The airport is down in the valley. Have you ever flown before? I’m not talking about a commercial airliner; that’s not really flying. I mean in a small plane – where you really feel like you’re one with the sky.”

“Have I ever flown? Well . . .” but she couldn’t finish. She tried mightily to keep a straight face but she just couldn’t. She started with a giggle but that only opened the floodgates and soon she was laughing so hard, tears were falling from her eyes. Her face turned red . . . though it might have been from embarrassment.

Ezra stared at his companion. He had a smile on his lips but his eyes were scrunched in confusion. He let her go on for more than three minutes then decided enough was enough. “Okay, take a deep breath and tell me what’s so funny.”

Grammy dabbed at her eyes, then fanned her face with her hand. “Oh, my. So sorry about that.”

“I’m waiting. What did I say to set you off?”

Since Grammy refused to lie, she had only two choices. Either tell him the truth about her and Egg or . . . “Forgive me, Ezra. I can’t. Really, if I could I would. Someday . . . maybe. Can you accept that?”

“I’m completely baffled as to what could cause a laughing fit that you can’t share with me . . . but, since I have no choice, I’ll wait until you’re ready to share your secret.”

“Thank you. But please, tell me more about you obsession with flying.”

“Before I do, I have to ask . . . will you go up with me in my plane? Since it’s an open cockpit, it might be a little scary . . . at first.”

Grammy didn’t answer right away for fear of laughing again. It took a few seconds to make sure she could control herself. “I would dearly love to go flying with you. It is also a passion of mine.”

“Really? You like to fly?”

This time she had to put her hand over her mouth. “Yes” she finally answered. “I love to fly.”

Ezra stared at his friend. “You know, there is something weird going on here and I just can’t figure it out.”

Before she could stop herself, Grammy said, “You don’t know the half of it.”

He continued to stare but it was obvious there was no more information or clarification forthcoming. “Well, I’ll just tell you one more thing . . . then it’ll be your turn. Have you ever heard of a wing-suit?”

“I have not. Is it a military thing?”

“No. It’s used by the bravest, or perhaps the foolish, extreme sportsmen. It was first developed in the 1920’s but as you would expect, like all technology, it has evolved over time. In essence, it’s a . . . um . . . a flying suit.”

Grammy had been sipping water when he said it. She began to cough as the liquid went down the wrong ‘pipe’ from the shock of the phrase ‘flying suit’. “WHAT? What did you say?”

“Are you okay?”

“I am. Sorry. Did you say flying suit?”

“Yes. Don’t laugh, I have a picture of that too” and he pulled it out of his wallet.

She studied it closely and was relieved that it wasn’t made from serpent’s crystals. “Ah, fascinating. And you can actually fly . . . but how? I see no propulsion system.”

“Excellent question. It really only allows you to glide. The wearer jumps off a cliff or some such structure and can fly or glide for a very long distance. When he wants to land, he deploys a parasail. It is an extraordinary thrill.”

“You’ve done it?”

“About thirty years ago . . . when I was still young and foolhardy. But, it was the greatest experience of my life. The sense of freedom is beyond description. I started too late in the sport and my age soon caught up to me. It’s one of the few regrets that I have in growing old. It’s hard for people to understand what I felt. I’m sure you think I’m just a foolish man without the sense God gave him.”

“On the contrary. I absolutely understand what you are saying. And, I fully appreciate how much you miss it.”

“You make it sound like you’ve done it.”

“I did . . . but not exactly this way. But the experience was similar.”

“Really? Tell me about it?”

“I can’t Ezra. It’s . . . it’s classified”. The way she said it could make a person infer that it was a military secret. It wasn’t, of course . . . but she couldn’t be responsible if that’s what the man thought.

“Okay. I think I can understand the secrecy. Regardless, all I can say is I’m even more attracted to you now than I was five minutes ago. And I was really attracted to you then.”

Such words deserved a reward and Grammy leaned over and gave Ezra a kiss . . . just a brush of the lips really. Unsatisfied, he pulled her closer and gave her a proper kiss.

“Oh my.”

“That bad?”

“You know darn well it was ‘that good”.

“Yeah, I do” he teased.

Grammy picked up an empty water bottle and threw it at him.

Ezra caught it in mid-air . . . apparently age had not slowed down his reflexes. “If you’re finished inflicting bodily harm on this poor, defenseless man . . .”

“Hah, defenseless.”

“Just being modest. So, Eloise, tell me something about you . . . something from your past that you don’t normal share with others.”

Grammy looked down at her hands as she gathered her thoughts. “How do you think a professional athlete feels when he has to hang up his spikes, so to speak?”

Ezra was surprised by the question. “Well, if he . . . or she . . . had a great career, I suppose they would feel pride and perhaps some regret that the glory days are over. If they hadn’t accomplished all they had hoped to accomplish while playing, then they would probably feel sadness.” He paused to study Grammy’s face. “Why do you ask? Did you have the opportunity to compete?”

“I once had the chance to do what no one in the world had ever done. Had I succeeded, I would have had the opportunity to help some individuals in great need of that help. But I failed. My only solace is that someone I dearly love – love more than my own life –did succeed. And, in a very small way, I helped. I got to share in a tiny piece of that success.”

Ezra took only a few seconds to respond. “So now you have mixed emotions – sad that you didn’t meet the challenge but incredibly proud that this . . . someone . . . did. And . . . and you feel a little guilty. Wishing that you succeeded means that your ‘someone’ would never have had his or her chance to do the impossible – or at least the improbable.”

Grammy cupped her mouth with her hand at Ezra’s words. He had just articulated exactly the feeling she had been suppressing for these last four or five years. Her dreams of helping Dazzle would mean that Egg would never have flown. Would never have been Flying Girl. Would never have experienced the mind-boggling adventures that she did. That thought sent a stab of pain through her heart. She would rather die than take any of it away from her beloved granddaughter.

To her horror, she realized she was crying. Ezra slid closer and put his arms around her shoulders. She nestled her head on his chest . . . enjoying the comfort in his touch.

It took a few minutes to regain her composure. “Thank you,” she whispered.

“For what?”

“For understanding what I was feeling. For putting your arms around me. For giving me a few minutes . . . in silence. Please don’t take this the wrong way, but you have an extraordinary feminine side.”

“I promise you that – if I do – it’s only a recent development. So, is there anything you want to share?” He was referring to whatever experience Grammy hadn’t succeeded at.

“Anything – no. Everything –yes. But . . . I can’t. I would be violating a trust if I did. However, there may come a time when I can. So, please be patient with me.”

“Of course. Answer me this . . . when you do finally share this secret with me – and I have the feeling it also has to do with your fit of laughter when we talked about flying – will I be impressed? Or shocked? Or surprised?”

“I can assure you that it will be all three – impressed, shocked and surprised. In fact, throw in amazed, flabbergasted, dumbfounded, astonished and overwhelmed.”

Ezra chuckled. “What in the world could do all that?”

Grammy returned the chuckle. “Who said it was ‘in the world’.” She stood up and brushed her pants. “Why don’t we head back? I think I want you to impress me with that gourmet talent you bragged about.”

“Lady, be prepared for a meal that will delight the senses . . . the presentation for the eyes, the aroma for the nose, the taste for the palate.”

“I’m shocked. Nothing for my ears?”

“Hmmm . . . how about a side order of Rice Krispies. I’m told they snap, crackle and pop.”

Chapter 7 – Tee for Two, Two for Tee

“Tee’ka?”

“It is I, Egg.”

Egg didn’t move. She was trying to understand what was going on . . . if it might be a trick. After all, she had seen Tee eaten by the T. Rex. And where was Mysteria? And how did Tee’ka get into this body?  Befuddled, the best she could come up with was “prove it.”

The other girl reached for her mask and pulled it off.

Egg moved closer. It was Mysteria’s body and hair . . . but the mouth and nose were definitely Tee’ka’s. Even the eyes were the right shape though she didn’t remember the girl had blue ones.

With all the strange and downright weird things that had happened on this planet, she was still suspicious. “That doesn’t prove anything.”

“When you pulled me aside, you asked me to put a copy of myself in Spirit’s ship’s computer. If you had not, I would not be standing here now. For that, and for all your love and friendship, I can only say thank you one more time.”

Certainly sounded like Tee’ka . . . but this version of her, if it was her, didn’t have the wand. No wand, no tip. No tip, no way to see if it was red. “Whoever used to mess with your programming and turn your wand red could still be doing it.”

“I understand your reluctance to believe me; and I commend you for your caution, but, it is truly me and I believe I can set your mind at ease. First, look at your sisters . . .,” and she pointed to the pile of avatars strewn on the ground.

“OH MY GOSH,” and Egg started to run to them.

“Egg, stop. You were right . . . those were not your friends. They are replicas.”

“But I tested them with a mirror like you said.”

“These are much more advanced. They are avatars . . . replicas made with living tissue. However, they are created with no mind, no memories. Whoever made them, gave each the personality of your real sister.”

“Who would do that? The Big Cheese?”

“No. Serenity.”

It took a moment for that to sink in. “WHAT? WHY?”

“I have no answer for you. No one knew she had returned. I cannot understand why she would treat you and the Sisterhood the way she has.”

“How do you know it’s her?”

“That explanation is more complicated and I will get to it shortly. First, I believe that there is something of yours that needs to be returned.” She pointed the staff at Egg and the girl cringed involuntarily when a flash of light engulfed her.

After it dissipated, Egg was wearing her flying suit. She immediately leapt into the air . . . just to be sure it was working. And it was.

She landed . . . this time just in front of Tee’ka. “Epic. Thank you.” Not yet completely convinced, she decided to go with her gut feeling. She reached out, grabbed Tee’ka, and gave her a warm, long hug.

“Egg . . .”

Still with her arms around the other girl, Egg answered, “Yeah?”

“Five seconds, ten tops.” She, of course, was referring to the time she first hugged Egg and was told that there was a limit to how long a hug should last.

Egg pulled back, stared at her friend then giggled. “You’re such a goof.”

“I would never take that honor away from you,” and she laughed at her own cleverness.

“So, where are my sisters?” That sounded awful and she rephrased it. “I mean, where are our friends? Are they okay?”

Tee’ka stared at the other girl . . . truly amazed. “I have never met an individual such as you. Your empathy for others is remarkable.”

“Say what?”

“You rephrased the question to include me. Your compassion, your understanding, for those you call friend is beyond anything I have ever encountered.”

“Tee, shut up. If it’s really you, you should know I hate when people talk that way.”

“I do. But . . .,” she grinned and it looked beautiful on her face, “learn to live with it.” Egg’s eyes went wide in surprise. Tee’ka pulled her close for another hug . . . lasting exactly five seconds.

“If you’re finished being mushy . . .”

“Sorry. Your sisters and my friends are on Serenity’s spaceship. They appear to be unharmed but she is holding them against their will. I believe they could use our help.” She emphasized the word ‘our’.

“Do you know where the ship is? I can fly us there.”

“No need. I still have Mysteria’s staff.”

“By the way, where is she?”

“She, like Sera’Fina, was an avatar created by Serenity. As I said, though she seemed to be a living, sentient person, she was not. She was a programmed . . . robot, if you will. I erased that programming and inserted the copy of myself from Spirit’s ship into her brain. I now have a real body,” and her smile lit up her face.

“Well, you look terrific. But you can tell me the rest of the story after we rescue the others.”

*****

They materialized just outside the control room so they could assess the situation before they confronted Serenity. Egg crept to the door and peered in. A moment later she laughed. Her six sisters would have jumped out of their seats if they weren’t strapped in.

“S’up,” she said to the six bound girls.

That was greeted with a chorus of a half dozen “EGGs.”

Then ‘Mysteria-turned-Tee’ka’ walked in and the bound girls fell deathly silent. They were all thinking the same thing – their sister was a prisoner just like them.

But Egg didn’t seem in distress. In fact, she seemed downright happy. “You guys been having fun?”

“Egg, what’s going on? Why is she here?”

“She is my dear friend and yours, if I might say so.”

“Are you nuts?”

Egg turned to her companion who was once again wearing her mask. “Show them.”

Without speaking since they would surely recognize her voice, the girl unmasked and walked in front of the others so they could get a good look at her face.

The girls stared . . . the face was certainly different than the one they had seen on their screens. It was BreeZee who connected the dots. “Tee’ka? Is it you?”

“What are you talking about?” asked Bl’azzz. To dragons and sea serpents, all humans kind of looked the same. To discern the difference in the girl’s nose, mouth and eyes would have been beyond their ability.

Tee’ka glanced at Egg who nodded yes. The girl turned back to BreeZee, and without saying a word, pointed the staff weapon at her and fired. Six girls screamed.

But, when the flash died away, BreeZee was free of her restraints. She stood up, removed the weird helmet that Serenity had put on all of them then walked up Tee’ka and gave her hug. After the appropriate three of four seconds, she pulled back and said (with a grin), “That was wicked of you. You could have scared me senseless.”

“It was meant to be a joke, but I must confess that humor is an art form that I am still attempting to master. I’m sorry to have frightened you.”

“Enough of your jibber-jabber. Get me out of this thing,” squawked Aeri’elle.

“Gotcha, big bird,” and Egg freed the dragon. Meanwhile, BreeZee released Soo and Bl’azzz while Tee’ka took care of Sylvia and Spirit. They all did as the Wind’dancer had done and removed their annoying helmets.

That left poor Jynx holding Serenity with her eight arms.

Egg walked over to the Shamie, knelt down and gave her a hug. “What’cha got here, Jynxie?”

“Grrrrrr. Burp.”

“Yeah. You said it.” She stood back up and studied Serenity. “I’m guessing they’re afraid you’re going to do something nasty if they free you. But . . .,” she called over her shoulder. “Hey, Tee, think you could zap her before she does anything bad?”

“Easily, Egg.”

“Okay, Jynx, you can let her go.”

The Shamie immediately morphed back into her normal shape, looked over at Spirit to make sure she was alright, then found a quiet corner to lie down and fall asleep. She was snoring in less than a minute.

“My name is Egg, but I guess you already knew that.”

“Of course I did, you stup . . .”

Egg cut her off with a shake of the head. “Be nice.”

Serenity took a deep breath to get herself under control. She was steaming mad . . . she had lost. She had lost to this simpleton. It was humiliating. “You were lucky.”

Egg laughed. “You’d be surprised how often that happens. A little luck, a terrific new friend (she pointed at Tee’ka), a sensational and I might add super-cuddly shape shifter . . . and presto, it all worked out for the best. Um, our best not yours.”

Serenity wanted to vomit. This girl kept playing the modesty card over and over again just for the sake of the others. When would they learn? “So you take no credit?”

“I don’t deserve any.” She said it as if it should be obvious.

“What about sensing that the avatars weren’t your real sisters?”

“Tee said they were like programmed robots. Well, you just didn’t do a great job of it. They did things my real sisters would never do. But even though I guessed there was something different about them, I still wasn’t sure of the what or how of it. I thought that you had taken over their brains or something. I could never have figured out they were pod people.”

“Pod people?”

“Earth movie. It’s not important. What is important is that Tee and Jynx saved my sorry butt. Without them, you’d have won.”

“So you admit you had nothing to do with the victory? What kind of leader does that make you?”

Before Egg could answer, Tee’ka said, “That makes her an extraordinary leader. She befriended me for no other reason than she cared. She asked Jynx for help when the problem looked unsolvable . . . recognizing she didn’t have the answer but was willing to accept the input from another. She knows her sisters so well that even though your programming would have made your mother proud, she could detect the slight differences. I, for one, would follow this young woman anywhere in the universe. If . . .” but she didn’t finish.

Serenity had stopped listening when she heard the reference to her mother. To compare her own accomplishments to hers was the greatest compliment she could ever hope to receive. She sat there fighting back the urge to cry.

“Finish what you were saying, Tee.”

The girl just smiled and shook her head no.

Sylvia did it for her. “If she were a sister and if she could leave this world”.

“Oh. I forgot about that part . . . about leaving this planet. Sorry, Tee. I really am.”

Aeri’elle reminded her, “Remember, when we get back, I’m going to put all of the resources of the university on the problem. We will figure it out; I promise.”

“Aeri’elle, you really have to hurry,” added Egg. “If they developed a better . . . um . . . a better hostess, they will . . . um.” She couldn’t say it.

“They will deactivate me. Thank you, Aeri’elle. I do appreciate the effort.” The other six sisters looked from one to another in horror at that statement, but said nothing.

Changing the subject, Egg asked Serenity, “I know about the explosion that did this to you,” and she pointed at the girl in the wheel chair, “but couldn’t they at least fix your eye?”

Serenity was still fighting her emotions and all she could do was mumble, “No, it was too badly damaged.”

Egg turned to Spirit. “Could you fix her?”

“After all she’s done to us?”

“No harm, no foul. Besides, it was a good contest and no one . . . um, no one living anyway, got hurt.”

“Serenity, may I try?”

The one eyed girl lost control and started to sob. She had tried her best to defeat this girl and now Egg was trying to help her. There was nothing to gain so why do it? Unless . . .  unless it was implicit in her nature. Could it be that it was never an act? How stupid she, Serenity, was. How embarrassed she’d be if her mother had seen this.

Tee’ka understood. She knew of the bond between mother and daughter. “Serenity, your mother may have disapproved of your motives, but she would have been bursting with pride over your methods. On a scientific level, you were every bit as good as she was. Unfortunately, your premise was faulty . . . based on insufficient and incorrectly interpreted data. Make her proud now. Accept your mistake and move on. Apply your gifts where they would do the most good.”

Serenity had listened to the words with her head hanging down . . . too ashamed to make eye contact with any of these people. But Tee’ka had struck just the right chord. She could actually hear her mother’s voice in them.

She finally looked at Egg and asked, “May I use the controls for a moment. You have my word that I will do nothing to harm any of you.”

“Don’t do it,” said Soo. “You can’t trust her.”

Egg turned to her serpent sister and pointed to her arm, “No goose bumps.” She turned back to the girl in the wheelchair and said, “Go ahead.”

“Thank you.” Serenity typed at a blazing speed; her fingers became a blur. When she had finished she looked up at Tee’ka and said “I’ve replace you with a modified Mysteria hologram. I also changed the central computer’s records to show that you, Tee’ka, never existed. As far as they are concerned, Mysteria has always been the hostess. I even changed the memories of the other host and hostesses. They no longer have a memory of you.”

“What does that mean?” asked Egg.

“It means,” replied Tee’ka, “that I am now free to leave Laff’Alott.”

Then all get-out broke loose.

Tee’ka was hugging Serenity and they were both crying.

Egg and Sylvia were holding hands and jumping up and down for joy.

BreeZee hugged Bl’azzz.

Spirit hugged Aeri’elle.

And Soo was left standing by herself. “Nice. No one wants to hug a super sensitive sea snake?”

“Grrrrrr,” and the Shamie, awaken by the commotion, morphed into a copy of Ven’trrr, Soo’s boyfriend, and slithered up to her.

“Epic,” said the serpent. “Just epic . . . that’s all I got.”

*****

When things settled down, Spirit and Serenity went to the far corner of the control room so the Thought Weaver could try to fix the girl’s eye.

Meanwhile, Egg took each sister aside (one at a time) and discussed a matter of some urgency.

About five minutes later they heard Serenity cry out.

“You guys okay?” asked Egg.

“Yes. I believe we are.”

Spirit walked back to the others . . . purposefully blocking their view of Serenity. At the last moment, she stepped aside and said, “May I introduce Astral Sing’s most worthy daughter . . .”

The mask was gone. Serenity now had her sight back.

Chapter 8 – The Newest Sister

“Nice job, Spirit.”

“Thanks, Egg. Unfortunately, I could do nothing for her spinal injury. I’m sorry, Serenity.”

It was all too much for the girl – overwhelmed by everything that had happened, she couldn’t sort out her emotions. “Please, don’t apologize. I’m the one that needs to do that. To all of you, I’m . . . I’m so very sorry. And you, Egg . . . all the things that they say about you, I just could never imagine they were true. You are truly amaz . . .”

Egg cut her off. “Come on. Please don’t. I just hate that. How many times do I have to say it? I just treat people the way I want them to treat me. I help people because it’s the right thing to do. That doesn’t make me anything special. Please, no more.”

“I’m sorry. I just meant . . . thank you. You’ve treated me with a kindness I don’t deserve.”

“Everyone deserves a second chance.”

“I could argue that point, but I won’t.” She was quiet for a moment or two then asked, “So what are your plans? Are you returning to Fair’Giggle?”

“Don’t know about the others, but I’ve had enough of this planet. How about you, Tee? Ready to explore the galaxy?”

“More than ready, Egg. Can I ask you to take me to another world? Any place that’s convenient.”

“Well, yes and no.”

“Sorry?”

Egg’s face lit up with a big smile. “We’ve taken a vote and we would like you to become a Hameggattic Sister. If you’re interested.”

Tee’ka stared at Egg. She looked at the other sisters – each smiling and nodding yes. She then glanced at Serenity whose head was down with a tear or two slipping off her cheek. The former hologram had little real-life experience. But she just knew that if it were Egg being asked, the girl would say, “No. Thank you for the honor. However, I’m not worthy to be a sister.” That reply stunned the others. Even Serenity looked up . . . in time to see Tee’ka looking at her.

“Absolutely, mind-boggling amazing,” she said loudly.

Everyone turned to look at her.

“What are you talking about, Serenity?” asked Egg.

“You.”

“What?”

“You have been on this planet for two or three days. In that incredibly short period, you have managed to exert an influence on Tee’ka that is totally out of proportion to the time you have spent with her.”

“I’ll say it again, what are you talking about?”

“Tee’ka just turned down membership in the Hameggattic Sisterhood because she wants you to invite me in her stead.”

“What?”

“She knows that I, too, would dearly love to be a Sister. She saw my tears just now and knew how I was feeling. My guess is she asked herself ‘what would Egg do?’ And, if the situation were reversed, you would have refused so that I could join. Is that about right, Tee’ka?”

Everyone turned back to Tee’ka. “Is that it?” asked Egg.

“It is very hard to have a living body,” was the strange reply.

“Give me a break here. Just answer my question.”

Tee’ka ignored her friend. “With a real body, I get to experience real emotions – not simulated ones. I find it very difficult.”

“You’ll adjust over time,” Serenity assured her.

“Tee – is that why you turned me down?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you, Tee’ka. But, I’m the one not worthy of Sisterhood,” said Serenity.

“You are wrong. However, yes, Egg, I would dearly love to be a Hameggattic Sister.”

The other seven girls came up to her and gave her the customary hug.

“Okay, to make it official, you have to recite the oath. It’s . . .”

“Egg. I know what it is . . .,” said the girl with a big grin. “We are the Sisters of Mystery and will protect each other from danger and keep each other’s secrets for as long as the sun shines and the stars twinkle.”

“Congratulations, Tee. How do you feel?”

“Like the luckiest girl in the universe.”

“Okay, I’d say that this was a pretty successful little vacation. Let’s go over to the Seven and head to Aerianna. Syl and I are due back at Grammy’s soon.”

“Egg, may I accompany you? I would love to see Q’umulus.”

“Sure, Serenity. Why don’t you follow us in your ship?”

“No need,” interjected Spirit. “Serenity, your ship can easily fit in the cargo hold of the Seven. Ride with us.”

“Thank you, I’d like that. I’ve been alone for way too long.”

*****

They had been back on the Seven for about twelve hours . . . half the time it would take them to return to Aerianna. It was a wonderful opportunity to really get to know Tee’ka, and for that matter, Serenity.

But after a meal and hour upon hour of nonstop jibber jabbering, they each went to their cabins to rest.

Egg was in the middle of a dream about – well, I hate to say it, but I have to – about boys. It was very pleasant until she heard explosions. Once, twice . . . followed by someone screaming at her.

She woke up startled. “What the . . . ?”

Then she heard it again . . . except it wasn’t explosions, it was someone pounding on the door to her cabin.

“EGG. Wake up.” The screaming wasn’t really screaming, just Spirit talking loudly in her head.

“Hang on a sec.” The girl rolled out of her bunk and opened the door. “What’s up? We’ve got problems?”

“Yes.”

“What? Something wrong with the ship?”

“No. It’s the Sisterhood.”

“What about it?”

“Egg . . . it’s gone.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I looked into the future . . . and the thread of the sisterhood went dark.”

Egg got goose bumps. “Get in here,” and she grabbed Spirit, pulled her inside the cabin, and closed the door. “Start over.”

“As you know, I don’t usually look into the future unless it’s really important to do so. But, I was lying in bed and thinking about this trip and our newest sister. I got curious to see how she was going to cope now that she was a living person and free of Laff’Alott. So, I followed the threads of the Sisterhood and . . . and the thread stopped.”

“That means what, exactly?”

“That the Sisterhood is coming to an end. Soon.”

“Does something bad happen to us? Do we die?”

“No. Nothing like that. It . . . sorry, it’s hard to explain. Think of a piece of rope that frays . . . and pretty soon all that’s left is individual threads, the rope is gone.”

“So you think we just disband the Sisterhood?”

“More likely someone forces us to disband.”

“And that’s like forever?”

“No. The further I go out in time, the fuzzier it gets. I would say that the thread will disappear in weeks or months. And, there’s nothing for at least four or five years.”

“And after?”

“That’s too far out for me to see.”

Egg gave this some thought. “Don’t you usually see different threads? I know some have a better chance to come true then others . . . but wasn’t there any other possible future?”

Spirit sighed loudly. “This is one of the rare times that I didn’t see any other paths. Egg, it’s going to happen. I’m sorry.”

“What about our mission to your planet? That’s not going to happen? We’re not going to be able to help you?” Leave it to Egg . . . her first reaction was for the well-being of her sister.

“I didn’t pursue that thread. I was so shocked by the disappearance of the Sisterhood I stopped. Shall I take a look? It’ll have to wait a day or so until I get my strength back.”

“No, that’s okay. Besides, I have an idea.”

“What?”

“Get everyone together. I tell all of you at the same time.”

“Okay. Egg . . .”

“Yeah?”

“I’m really, really sorry.”

“I know.”

“No, I mean about Flying Girl.”

“What?”

“She disappears too.”

*****

They were gathered in what they now call the social room. The eight sisters were there but no Serenity.

“Where is she?” Egg asked.

“I thought you wanted only the Sisters,” replied Spirit.

“We need her . . . if she’s willing.”

“Egg, what’s going on?” asked Sylvia.

“Just give me few minutes and I’ll tell all of you. Spirit, get Serenity. Soo, come with me.”

Egg and Soo went to the far side of the room and out of earshot of the others. “What’s going on, Egg?”

“I’ll tell all of you in a minute. First, I need to hear something from you. If there was a choice between another mission or staying home with Ven’trrr, which would you do?”

“Sisterhood first, of course.”

“No, Soo. Which would you want to do?”

“I really love him, Egg.”

“That’s what I thought.”

“But I would never abandon you guys.”

“I know that. Do me a favor and say nothing to the others yet. Go back and send Bl’azzz over, please.”

“Sure.”

A moment later, the F’yre Dragon sauntered over. “What’s up?”

“If there was another mission but Soo decided to stay home with her boyfriend, would you still go?”

“Is she retiring?”

“No. Just . . . I’ll explain everything in a few minutes. Just answer my question. Would you go or would you want to stay home?”

“I’m a Hameggattic Sister . . . always. Besides, there really isn’t anything at home for me. I’m kind of pathetic that way.”

“YOU ARE NOT,” Egg responded too loudly causing the other girls to look over at them. “Sorry. Please don’t say that. You are wonderful. And if no one else has seen that in you, it’s their problem not yours.”

“Egg-o, you’re the best. You know that, right?”

“I know that I love you.”

Bl’azzz wrapped her wings around her sister.

“Okay, go back and send butterfly girl over. Please don’t say anything yet.”

“Sure.”

The beautiful Wind’dancer walked over. “Well, this is all so mysterious. What’s going on?”

“I’ll tell you guys in a minute. First, I have a question for you. If there was another mission, would you go?”

“Of course.”

“Even if I wasn’t there?”

“What?”

“No, don’t. Just answer the question. If you were needed, would you still go?”

“Yes. Egg, you’re okay right?”

“I’m fine. I promise to explain in a few minutes. Go back and send Syl over please.”

“Okay. But you are fine, right?”

“Yeah. Terrific.”

Sylvia came over and asked the obvious, “What is going on?”

“Syl, you and I might be . . .  retiring from the Sisterhood sooner than you expected.”

“What?”

“Spirit . . . she saw the future.”

“Egg . . .”

“Look, I’ll explain in a few minutes. I just wanted to warn you.”

“Okay. If you say so.”

“Yeah. Do me a favor and send over Tee.”

“Sure.”

The newly minted girl came over. “What is it Egg? Is there a problem?”

“Yeah, but I’ll explain that in a minute. I need to ask you a question. Would you go on a mission even if I wasn’t there?”

Tee’ka’s response was a little different from the others. “Would you want me to?”

“It’s your choice . . . but, yes.”

“Then I will.”

“Thanks. Let’s go back.”

“Don’t you want to talk to Aeri’elle and Spirit?”

“No need. Come on.”

*****

“Thanks for joining us, Serenity.”

“You’re welcome. However, I’m surprised and more than a little curious.”

“Okay, well apparently the Sisterhood is coming to an end.” Egg had to cover her ears to protect against the yelling and screaming. She let it go on for a few more seconds before screaming “SHUT UP.” Surprisingly that worked. “Let me explain. Spirit looked into the future and the . . . thread of the Sisterhood went dark. And it’s going to happen soon. “Stop” she said and raised her hand to fend off questions. “Let me finish. She doesn’t see anything bad happening to us. Apparently, we are forced to disband. Will it be forever? She can’t answer that. The only thing she knows is that the Sisterhood is gone for at least four or five years. After that, she doesn’t know. Also, she didn’t see any other strands for us . . . which I take is pretty unusual.”

“So who would force us to disband?” asked Aeri’elle.

“No idea.”

“I do.” They all turned to Serenity. “The Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta.”

“Why?”

“She does not like competition. If she believes the Sisterhood is a threat to her plans, she would find a way to remove it.”

Sylvia asked the obvious question. “How could she do that?”

Serenity looked uncomfortable, so Egg answered the question. “I think she takes my flying suit.” Again, she held up her hand to stop the torrent of questions. “Spirit said that the Flying Girl thread also goes dark. Maybe she figures no Flying Girl, no Sisterhood.”

“We can’t let that happen,” cried BreeZee.

“You’re right. We have to protect Egg’s suit at all cost,” added Spirit.

“NO.”

“What do you mean, no?” demanded Sylvia.

“That’s not the important thing. What’s really important is that we help Spirit.”

This time holding up her hand had no effect. But the flood of comments and questions were unintelligible since they all happened simultaneously.

After five minutes, people stopped talking to take a breath. Egg used the momentary lull to pick up where she had left off. “Listen up. I’m doing the leader bit and I want you to hear me out. That means shut up and listen. Serenity can’t be sure that it’s going to be the big cheese. So let’s not worry about her for now. We know that the Hameggattic Sisterhood is going away. We know that Flying Girl is going to be grounded. And we know that Spirit needs our help.”

“Egg, please. Putting my needs ahead of the Sisterhood is wrong.”

“No, it’s not. Just . . . just hear me out. I’m sending Spirit home.” She raised her hand again. “Come on, you guys. Shut up and listen. I’m sending her home but not alone. Tee’ka has volunteered to go. So have BreeZee and Bl’azzz. Naturally, Jynxie goes with Spirit and she’s an honorary sister, don’t forget.”

“Grrrrrr.”

“Aeri’elle has already retired. Syl was going to in a few years. But, if I can’t go because I’m no longer Flying Girl, then I refuse to send my best friend.”

“Hey, what about me?”

“Soo, you’re going back home and getting married. Your boyfriend may not know it yet, but he’s going to propose.”

“I can’t let Bl’azzz go without me. She’ll hurt herself.” This time there were no ‘s’ words, no kidding . . . just a sincere statement. Everyone took note.

“Hey, Soo. Just promise me I get to be maid of honor,” whispered the dragon.

“Would you wear a dress for the occasion?” teased her friend. She could never be serious for too long.

The thought was so horrifying that Bl’azzz burped and burn.

Tee’ka and Serenity were startled to say the least. The others just laughed.

“Sorry.”

“May I ask what the trouble is on your world,” asked Serenity when everyone calmed down.

Spirit explained the situation.

“Do you have a plan?”

“No. As Egg would say, we’ll just wing it.”

“May I suggest something?”

“Go head, Serenity.”

“Perhaps I could accompany Spirit and the others. I have . . . I have some ability that may prove useful.”

Everyone looked to Egg for her reaction. “Why do you think I invited you to this meeting?”

Serenity smiled. “You’re remarkable. Sorry, I just had to say it.”

“Egg, there is one problem.”

“Only one.”

“That makes six. Even though we won’t be the official Hameggattic Sisterhood, I’d feel better if we had seven. Silly, I know.”

“I have another suggestion.”

“Go ahead, Serenity.”

“I could make an Egg avatar.”

“No way.”

“Outvoted,” said Bl’azzz, Spirit, BreeZee and Tee’ka.

“Just create it after I’m gone. It’s tough enough to look in the mirror every morning. To have to look at a real live other Eloise Graystone would make me puke.”

When the laughter died down, Egg said, “Just two more things. Bree, I want you to be in charge. And, Tee, you’ll be her Feminion. Anyone need to argue?”

Chapter 9 – Loose Ends

Egg was sitting alone in the darkened control room watching the stars go by as streaks of white light. She was so lost in thought that she did not hear BreeZee enter. Truth is there were a bunch of the girls who wanted to talk to her but were reluctant to intrude on her privacy.

“Hi, Egg. Am I bothering you?”

“Hey, Bree. No, come on in.” The Wind’dancer did, and sat down on a step in front of her friend. “It’s breathtaking, isn’t it?” as she noticed the star field race by.

“Absolutely amazing. I can’t believe I got to experience this. Who would of thunk it? A silly little nine-year-old girl that went on an adventure that was out of this world. Right out of a fantasy novel. And just to make it perfect, I’m talking to a beautiful butterfly girl . . . how awesome is that?”

Bree had the good grace to blush at the compliment. “Do you really believe all this is coming to an end? That the Sisterhood will just fade away?”

“You think Spirit was wrong?”

“No. I don’t know. I hope so.”

“Yeah, my thoughts exactly.”

“I mean in your heart . . . in your gut as you always say . . . does it feel right? Will this be the end?”

Egg inhaled then exhaled loudly. “No. It’s just wrong. The Sisterhood can’t end. Bree, I promise you, I’ll find a way to bring it back. It may take years, but we’re not finished.”

BreeZee stood and walked over to her friend and hugged her. “Thank you. That’s what I wanted to hear. If you believe we have a future, then we do. I’ll leave you alone. I’m sure you have alot on your mind.” She turned to go then stopped. “Thank you for putting me in charge. I won’t let you down.”

“I know. Hey, do me a favor.”

“Sure. Anything.”

“Tell the others I need a little time to myself.”

“Absolutely . . . as much as you want.”

The door closed and Egg was alone once more. As she sat there, she reflected on all that had happened to her – from the first time she met Sylvia to right now, sitting in the command chair of the Seven while the ship hurtled through space.

She had so much to be thankful for.

Which meant she had so much to lose.

And she cried.

******

She actually cried herself to sleep. When she awoke, she realized her mistake. Jumping up, she rushed out to find the others. They were all sitting where she had left them. What struck her as sad was that they were now in two groups – those that were going with Spirit, and those that weren’t.

“Spirit,” she called.

“Yes, Egg? Are you okay?”

“Yeah. Just dandy. Anyway, we’re headed in the wrong direction.”

“Excuse me?”

“We shouldn’t be going to Aerianna. We should go to Zynn-Zaz’zia.”

“Why?”

“If someone is going to try to break up the sisterhood, it has to be on Aerianna.”

“Excellent reasoning,” agreed Serenity.

“Once on Zynn-Zaz’zia, Aeri’elle, Soo, Syl and I can take the space portal to Aerianna. From there, Syl and I can use our rings to go home.”

“If that’s what you want, I can make the course correction easily enough.”

“Will I have time to see my parents?” asked the Wind’dancer who was smiling from the prospect.

“Bree, listen to me. All of you listen. Once I get off this ship, Bree is in charge. If you want to spend time with your parents, that’s your decision. For my two cents, you would be crazy not to. I’m sure Tee’ka and Serenity would enjoy seeing your world. Oh, and I gotta think that Serenity and K’ssss would have quite the conversation about techno gibberish. That alone is worth the price of admission.”

“It’ll be great to see that slithering sack of silly again.”

“Soo-Soo, if she hears you, she’ll turn you into a sea slug,” advised a grinning Bl’azzz.

“Never going to happen. Don’t forget, I intend to marry her brother and that’s going to make her my sister-in-law. We’re practically family.”

For no apparent reason, Egg started to laugh.

“What’s with her?” asked the Serpent.

“I’ll tell you what’s with me . . . I was remembering the first time I met the two of you. You were selling seashells and she was – please forgive me K’ssss – dumber than a clam. You kept insulting her but I’m not sure she understood that.”

“H’sssss. Geez, that seems like a lifetime ago.”

“Yeah, it does.”

“Egg, will you and Sylvia spend any time on Zynn-Zaz’zia and Aerianna?” asked Aeri’elle.

“We really need to get back but I do want to say hi to K’ssss and Zazzi then have a talk with Dazzle. She needs to know what’s going on.”

“Egg”.

“Yeah, Serenity?”

“Please take this” and she handed the girl some kind of . . . well, no idea what.

“It’s beautiful. What is it?”

“It’s something I worked on while you were all napping. Just a thank you gift from me.”

“Does it do something? Or is it just for decoration?”

“Are you a good liar?”

“What?”

“No need to answer. You’re way too honest to be able to lie convincingly.”

“Syl, what’s she talking about?”

“She’s giving you a gift. What it does, if anything, is . . . a surprise. If someone, for example the Empress, were to ask you about it, all you could say is that it was a token of appreciation from someone you met.”

“And that is why she is your Feminion.”

“Do I ever get to find out what it is? What it does?”

“When the time is right.”

Egg slipped it into a pocket. “In that case, thank you, I just love it. Always wanted one.”

“You are such a goof.”

*****

Since Zynn-Zaz’zia was much closer than Aerianna, they were in orbit above the planet in less than an hour.

“Egg, I’ll visit K’ssss a little later. I’m really anxious to see my parents.”

“Don’t blame you, Bree. I’m won’t be staying long, so I guess this is . . . this is . . .” and she cried before the word ‘goodbye’ could be said.

And the finality of what was about to happen hit them all. Egg’s crying became contagious and they all started in. Serenity shocked and surprised herself and cried too.

The few minutes to teleport down turned into almost an hour. But Egg’s last words were, “Don’t stay too long before you head to Paradox. If they (and she didn’t explain who she was referring to) catch you here, then Spirit’s world is doomed.”

So the entire contingent that was being led by BreeZee went with her.

The remaining four beamed down to Zazzi’s cavern.

They materialized on a ledge and to their amusement, there were K’ssss and Zazzi in the water watching over a flock of small sea serpents.

“EGG, SISTERS,” yelled K’ssss when she saw them . . . scaring the young ones in the process.

“Hey, K’ssss. Hi, Zazzi. How goes the family?” And the next twenty minutes were spent exchanging pleasantries.

“So what is the real reason you are here?” asked the former ‘clam-brained’ serpent after her husband excused himself to look after the children.

“First, just to say hi. Second, we have a new sister. Her name is Tee’ka and you’ll meet her soon. She’s here with BreeZee, Spirit, Bl’azzz and Serenity. They’re all visiting Bree’s family but they’ll stop by before they go.”

“Who is Serenity and where are they going . . . without you four I might add.”

“Serenity is someone we met on Laff’Alott. You and she have something in common. You’re both way smarter than the average bear.”

“Bear?”

“Oh, sorry. I was referring to Yogi Bear who . . . oh, never mind. I just meant that you’re both geniuses. If she needs your help, please do what you can for her.”

“Of course. So where are they headed?”

“To Paradox, Spirit’s home world. They’re going to try to make things right – to get rid of the bad guys.”

“Without you? Without any of you?” K’ssss couldn’t keep the surprise from her voice.

“Aeri’elle needs to go back and work on the university. Soo . . .,” she stopped when the serpent whacked her with her tail. “Um, Soo has some personal business to attend to. And, I can’t let Syl go alone.”

“Interesting. That begs the question – what about you? What about Flying Girl? Are you ill? Is there a problem with Grammy or your family?”

“No. There’s a problem with the Hameggattic Sisterhood,” and she went on to explain Spirit’s thought weaving.

“Oh, Egg. I’m so sorry. Whatever I can do, I will. You know that, don’t you?”

“I do. But we can’t change the future . . . at least for the next four or five years. After that . . . I just don’t know.”

“Then this is goodbye. I refuse to accept that.”

“Me, too. Let’s just say it’s a ‘see you later’ moment. That doesn’t sound so final.”

“What does your gut tell you, Egg?”

“That’s not very scientific.”

“No, but you have a gift.”

“Like I told Bree, I’m going to find a way to bring us back. It’s not right that the Hameggattic Sisterhood will be forced to disband.”

“Who would do such a thing? Any ideas?”

“We think it’s the Empress Violetta of the Starlight Alliance. Probably never heard of her.”

“On the contrary. Meggy told me she’s on her way to Aerianna. Not sure when she’s due to arrive. Apparently, she never tells anyone . . . just in case her enemies are waiting to do something to her. Very paranoid.”

*****

“Your Majesty, Egg of Earth, her Feminion Sylvia, her sisters Soo’nami and Aeri’elle,” intoned the Sentinel when they entered the Throne Room.

The four sisters walked up to the throne, ignoring the others in attendance. They bowed for the sake of tradition, and then Egg and Sylvia went up to the Queen to exchange hugs.

“Sisters, I was not expecting you. How was your vacation?”

“Dazzle, you wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”

“Egg, I would believe anything you told me,” replied the Queen with a warm smile.

“Is Meggy around?”

“Yes. She returned just yesterday. Is there a problem?” After spending so much time with her earthly sister, the Queen could sense Egg’s inner turmoil.

“We need to talk. If we could get Sassi here, all the better.”

“I see. Very well. Sentinel, please escort my sisters to the Queen’s antechamber. Send for my daughter and for our Sister Sassi. Quickly, if you please.” She turned to Egg and said I will join you shortly. What of the others?” referring to Spirit and the rest.

“I sent them on a mission.”

“Indeed. Without Flying Girl?” She turned back to the Sentinels who were preparing to leave. “Gentlemen, with all due haste, please.”

*****

Egg and the other three greeted Sassi and Meggy with hugs, of course.

“How’s Kissy?”

“She is engaged to be married,” replied Sassi with a bright smile.

“No way. So maybe in a year or two you’ll be a grandmother. How epic is that?”

“Epic?”

“It’s a perfectly good word. Anyway, congrats to all of you.”

“Thank you. Naturally, everyone is invited to the wedding. That includes Grammy.”

Sassi was surprised by the reaction. “That may be a problem.”

“Egg, tell us what is going on,” begged Meggy. “I am getting your goose bumps.”

The girl took a deep breath. This story wasn’t getting any easier with each telling. “The Hameggattic Sisterhood will be disbanded.”

Sassi and Meggy dropped their jaws. Rose’Alynnia dropped a goblet filled with water. She was totally unprepared for what she had just heard. “Egg, my sister, please explain.”

And the girl did. She talked about Tee’ka, Serenity, and Fair’Giggle. Then she told them of Spirit’s vision of the future. Finally, she explained why she had sent the others to Paradox. By the time she had finished, she was emotionally drained.

“Do you have any idea who might force you to disband?” asked the Queen.

“Serenity thinks it’s the big cheese.”

“Sorry. Whom?”

“The . . . oh, I mean the Empress Violetta.”

Dazzle stole a glance at her daughter . . . but Sylvia caught it. “Dazzle, Meggy . . . what’s going on? Why is the Empress coming here?”

“Serenity was correct. The Empress loves technology. When she learned of the space portal, she fairly licked her lips in anticipation of acquiring it. Her paranoia over enemies, real or imagined, is all-consuming. Disbanding the Sisterhood would fit her personality. Acquiring the flying suit would also be consistent.”

“How is she going to get the space portal? Are you giving it to her?”

Dazzle looked at her daughter and nodded. She wanted Meggy to tell them. “We made an error in judgment. The Starlight Alliance is very strong . . . not in terms of an army. But, it has acquired so much advanced technology that it can take what it wants. The Empress wants the portal and the technology that keeps Q’umulus floating. We have no choice but to give it to her.”

Egg had listened with growing unease. When her sister finished, she turned to Dazzle and asked, “Is Aerianna in trouble?”

“Yes, my sister. We have exchanged Mobius for Violetta. Like my father before me, I have failed my people.”

“She can’t be as bad as Mobius, can she?”

“No. Fear not on that score. However, we will do her bidding . . . though in a much more civilized fashion.”

Without thinking, Egg started to ask, “What can the Hamegg . . .” then stopped when she realized what she was saying. “Now I understand why she has to get rid of us. When is she due here?”

“Her arrival times are never revealed. We believe in a month, perhaps two.”

“What can we do in the meantime?”

Dazzle smiled, probably for the first time in weeks. “Oh, my sister, how I love your indomitable spirit. Sadly, there is nothing to do to stop the good Empress. However, I am very glad you sent the others to Paradox. At least they will be free from Violetta’s influence. And adding Serenity to the team was a stroke of brilliance. An intellect such as hers will prove to be an invaluable resource. As to you and your flying suit, . . . go home. You should be safe there.”

“I’d like to come back one more time before she arrives, if that’s okay.”

“May I ask why?”

“Grammy . . . she isn’t getting any younger. I’d like for her to have one more chance to see Aerianna.”

“You are very considerate. I would love to see Eloise again. You have our permission, but please, do it soon. I would not want you to meet the Empress.”

“Thanks. Syl and I really need to get back, so . . .”

“Egg.”

“Yeah, Meggy?”

“You did not tell us how you feel . . . in your gut.”

“I probably can’t stop the sisterhood from being disbanded. I promise all of you that I’ll find a way to bring it back. It may take five years, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned from Dazzle, it’s patience.”

Chapter 10 – An Epic Oops

In the Mountains on Earth

By the time they got back to the cabin, it was about four o’clock. Grammy was tired but she had no intention of letting on. Ezra, on the other hand, was full of energy and ready to cook a gourmet meal.

“I’ve got to go to my cabin for a few things. I’ll be back in a couple of minutes.”

“Take your time.”

He looked at the woman and asked, “If you’re tired, I could give you an hour or so.”

“Very thoughtful, but since you’re doing all the work, I will sit back, sip some wine and enjoy the show.”

Just then, there was a knock on the door. “Who could that be?” If it were her granddaughter, Egg wouldn’t knock. She opened it and there stood a Fed Ex delivery person. “Here you go,” he said and handed her an express envelope.

“Thank you. It’s quite a drive up here. Can I get you some water or something?”

“Thanks, no. Have a nice night.” He walked back to his van, started the engine and drove away with a wave.

“I take it you weren’t expecting a package” said Ezra who was now standing behind her.

“No. Let’s see – it’s from Ashley, my granddaughter. She’s away at college.” Grammy pulled the little tab and opened the envelope. Inside was a letter – more of a short note. ”Oh, my.”

“What’s the problem? Nothing too serious, I hope.”

“My daughter and son-in-law are paying me – us – a surprise visit. They’re due to arrive . . .” she stopped and looked at her watch. “Oh, dear. They’re due any minute.”

“Why’s that a problem?”

“Because my granddaughter and her friend are not back yet.”

“I don’t understand.”

“The two young ladies are staying with me. But, they’re off on a little adventure. My daughter isn’t going to be happy if she finds them gone.”

“How old are they?”

“Almost fourteen.”

“What? You let two fourteen-year-old girls go off on their own. Why?” Ezra was obviously very disturbed by the thought.

“Ezra, it’s complicated.”

“Let me guess. It’s another secret and you can’t tell me.”

The way he said it made Grammy’s heart skip a beat. She took a deep breath, looked him in the eye and replied, “It’s not another secret. It’s the same one.”

“Eloise, I’m not sure how I’m feeling at the moment.”

“I guess I’ve used up all your trust. I’m so sorry.”

His face softened a bit. “What are you going to do?”

“The girls should be home tonight. I just have to . . . have to stall for a few hours.”

“Just a few hours? And you know for a certainty that they are all right?”

That made Grammy smile. “Oh, yes. They’re fine. I promise you.”

The doorbell chose that moment to ring followed by “Hi, Mom. Surprise.”

Ezra looked at Grammy and said, “Follow my lead. But if the girls don’t show up in a few hours or if they are injured in any way, I . . .”

Grammy put a finger to his lips. “No need to say it. I completely understand.” She turned toward the door and said, “I’m coming, daughter of mine.” She opened it and gave the couple a hug. “My, oh my, what a pleasant surprise.”

*****

They were seated around the dining room table drinking coffee. The aroma of Ezra’s fabulous dinner was wafting in from the kitchen. The Graystone’s were surprised, but happy, that Grammy had company. Mrs. Graystone was particularly pleased that he was so handsome, well-mannered and a wonderful storyteller.

It had been an hour since they had arrived, and it would be another hour till dinner. Ezra had changed the quantity of food he was preparing to six. He kept looking at his watch, getting nervous. If the two kids didn’t show up soon, he wasn’t sure what he was going to do.

“If you’ll excuse me, I need to go back to my cabin for a moment. I have a superb bottle of wine that will complement the roast.” As he got up, on an impulse he didn’t fully understand himself, he leaned over and gave Grammy a quick kiss on the cheek.

After he left, Mrs. Graystone turned to Grammy and said, “Mother, he’s so dreamy. Tell me everything.”

*****

Back on Aerianna, the girls had said their goodbyes to everyone except Meggy. She had walked with them to the balcony where, by tradition, they would leave for earth.

The Princess looked so forlorn. She said, “Egg, if there ever was a time for the Hameggattic Sisterhood, it would be now. I cannot believe we were so naïve as to trust this woman.”

“What’s she like?”

“The Empress is . . . very impressive, very persuasive. She never raises her voice or shows any extreme emotions. But, she is incredibly suspicious of everyone and everything. Most importantly, she always gets what she wants.”

“You know, I think I’ll bring Grammy back tomorrow. Once we leave the mountains, it could be weeks before we have an excuse to be away for a day. I don’t want to be here when she is. So, no goodbyes now. Just a hug and a ‘I’ll see ya’.” and she gave the Princess one.

Sylvia gave Meggy one also.

“Bye,” said Egg, and she and Sylvia vanished.

And appeared outside Grammy’s cabin . . . and right in front of Ezra.

“Oh my gosh.”

“Fiddlesticks.”

“What in the world?”

*****

The three of them stood there . . . staring at one another. Egg finally asked, “Who are you?”

Once the shock of seeing two girls pop out of thin air had passed, Ezra regained his wits. “You must be Egg. And you are Sylvia.”

Now it was Egg’s turn to be shocked . . . well, at least surprised that this stranger knew their names.

But not her Feminion. “If you know who we are, you must be a friend of Grammy’s.”

“I am. She told me her granddaughter and friend were due back anytime. She failed to mention they could materialize out of thin air. I’m guessing if I ask how you did that, you would tell me it’s a secret.”

Egg broke out into a smile. She would have expected a grown-up to be freaking out over what just happened. Instead, this man just took it in stride. No wonder he was a friend of Grammy’s. “Big secret. Very, very big secret. .  .Mr. ?”

“Just Ezra.”

Egg giggled. “Kind of a silly name . . . Mr. Just Ezra.”

“You are such a goof,” and Sylvia whacked her friend on the arm.

Ezra immediately liked these two. They seemed so much more mature than he would have expected from girls (or boys) at that age. “Ladies, just a heads-up, your mom and dad are here.”

“No. Why?”

“They wanted to surprise you.”

“Poor Grammy. She must be going crazy.”

“She said it would be hard to explain to your parents that she had let you go gallivanting off on your own.”

“I bet. Ezra, could you do me a favor and look away for a second.”

He scrunched his face at the request. “Okay,” and he turned his back.

“Ring, tend to my suit.” To Ezra she said, “Okay, you can turn around.”

He did and his jaw dropped. “Wow, you are full of surprises.”

She smiled. “You don’t know the half of it.”

Ezra stood there trying to make sense of all of this . . . but failed completely. However, he had a dinner cooking and houseguests, so now wasn’t the time. “Why don’t you guys go in? Tell your parents that you were watching the sunset from Lookout Point. Small white lie but it’ll save your Grandmother a lot of difficult explanations.”

“Okay, thanks.” The girls turned to go but Egg stopped. “Ezra?”

“Yes?”

She walked up to him and gave him a hug. “Thank you.”

He understood why he was being thanked. “You’re most welcome.” He turned to go then he stopped. “By the way, my dog’s name is Max. You’ll love him.”

*****

Four hours later, dinner and talking were over. Egg’s parents were tired from the long drive and Ezra invited them to stay in his spare bedroom. He had just returned from ‘tucking in’ his guests.

The three women were sitting in the living room waiting . . . to Ezra they seemed like cats anticipating the arrival of a poor, unsuspecting mouse.

He surveyed the room then said to Grammy, “Lucy, you got some esplaining to do.” (It was a reference to a famous TV show from back in the 50’s.).

“Indeed. First, thank you for how well you handled the situation. I’m not sure I could have done the same if it were me.”

“Honestly, it was so . . . so bizarre, that I simply had no time to digest what I had witnessed.” He stopped and looked at the two young girls. “What did I witness?”

Grammy had talked it over with Egg and Sylvia and they agreed that Ezra should be told everything.  It wasn’t to satisfy his curiosity but to help Grammy with her growing relationship with the man.

Egg also told her grandmother about Spirit’s vision of the future and about the Empress. Grammy was as stunned by the news as everyone else. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the time to discuss it. She told her granddaughter that, on the way home, they would have five or six hours to do that.

“Ezra, dear. We have a little story to tell you. I suggest you sit down . . . before you fall down.”

*****

A half hour later, the story was over. Ezra had not said a word as he took in the unbelievable tale. Had he not seen the girls materialize out of thin air for himself, he would have left and never looked back.

Egg stood up. “Ring, tend to my suit” and the grey fog envelope her. When it cleared, there stood Flying Girl.

“Wow. Those were the words you spoke when you made me look away.”

“Yup.”

“May I see the ring?”

“Sorry, no. I never take it off.”

“I understand.”

“So, Ezra dear. In an hour, you will forget having seen Egg as flying girl as I explained. However, tomorrow . . .,” but he cut her off.

“Eloise, I saw her in this . . . flying suit almost four hours ago when she first popped out of thin air. I didn’t forget that.”

“How weird is that?” asked Egg to no one in particular.

“Oh my.”

“What Grammy?”

Sylvia, of course, understood immediately. “He’s got Dazzle’s DNA. He’s one of her descendants.”

“Epic.”

“Epic?” asked Ezra.

“It’s a perfectly good word.”

“Well, this certainly changes everything. Egg . . . ”

“Yes, Grammy.”

“Tomorrow after your parents leave, I think we should take Ezra to meet his great, great, etc. grandmother.” It would work out perfectly – maybe her last visit to Aerianna, with the man she loved and before the Empress arrived. Nice.

“You’re going to take me a trillion miles to Aerianna?”

“Yes, we are. Would you like that?”

“Epic,” he replied with a rather large grin.

*****

The Graystones left around noon. “When are you guys heading back?” asked Egg’s mom.

“Probably this time tomorrow, possibly the day after,” answered Grammy. “Do me a favor and drop this in a mail box. Before you ask, it’s a letter to Ashley.” She wanted to thank her other granddaughter for warning her about the surprise visit and to let her know they were going back to Aerianna for a quick visit.

Mrs. Graystone took the letter. “Okay, but don’t leave any later than that.. Egg and Sylvia start school this week.” She turned to Ezra. “Wonderful to meet you. Dinner was delicious, the stories were fascinating and . . . and, well it was nice to meet you.”

Ezra walked up and gave Mrs. Graystone a kiss on the cheek then shook Mr. Graystone’s hand. “Drive safely.”

The car pulled out of the driveway with a honk. When it was out of sight, Grammy suggested to Egg, “Why don’t you change, dear.”

“Ring, tend to my suit,” and presto change-o she was Flying Girl.

“Love that trick,” said Ezra.

“Then you might like this one,” and Egg grabbed his hand and leapt skyward. In a blink of an eye, they were higher than the clouds. “Grammy said you once had a flying suit.”

Ezra was brave and daring . . . but being up a few thousand feet with just the hand of a teenage girl to keep him from falling to his death took all his courage. After a moment, he realized two things. He was probably squeezing Egg’s hand too hard and she had asked him a question. “Sorry,” he said as he loosened his grip – but just a little.

“I said I heard you had a flying suit.”

“I thought I did. But compared to yours, it was just a Halloween costume.”

Egg headed back down and they landed where they had started.

“Did you have fun?” asked Grammy.

“Once I stopped being scared. So this was your suit? This is how you used to fly?”

“Yes.”

“Eloise, you are the most amazing woman I have ever known.” Then he added “Thank you for sharing all this with me.”

“I hope you can now understand the secrecy?”

“Of course. But times a wasting. I really, really want to meet a dragon . . . just to complete this fairy tale.”

“What about a Queen, a sea serpent and a floating city?”

“Yeah, that too.”

“How about Max?” asked Egg.

“He’s all set with water and food. He can manage for a few days without any problems.”

“Then take my hand,” and a moment later they were on the balcony of Q’umulus.

Like all Earth visitors before him, Ezra just stared in total disbelief.

“Ezra.”

No answer.

“Ezra, dear.”

No answer.

“Do you think he’s dead?” teased Egg.

“I certainly hope not. Ezra?”

“I’m . .  . I’m . . . good grief. This is spectacular.”

“It does have a certain charm,” responded Grammy with pretend indifference.

“Syl, why don’t you let Dazzle and Meggy know we’re here. In the meantime, Grammy wants me to take them to the Hameggattic museum place.”

“Okay. See you in a bit.”

But before they could move, a dozen Sentinels came marching out . . . encircling them. That had never happened before.

“What’s going on?” asked Ezra alarmed by the lances they were carrying.

“I’m not sure. Egg, dear, perhaps you should find . . .”

The head Sentinel cut Grammy off with a very stern “Silence.” And the goose bumps on Egg’s arms popped up.

“Hey, I’m Egg of Earth. Take us to see Daz . . . I mean Queen Rose’Alynnia.”

The Sentinel knew very well who the girl and the others were (well, not Ezra) but he had his orders. “I am sorry, Egg. We have been instructed to take any unannounced arrivals to a holding cell.” He was mortified that he was forced to do this to the leader of the Hameggattic Sisterhood – the beloved heroine of Aerianna.

“What?”

“Follow me,” then he added softly, “please.”

They were marched to a room that was unfamiliar to them. It had only one window but it was high on the wall and they could not look out. There were no chairs . . . in fact no furniture of any kind. “I am truly sorry,” said the Sentinel as he led his men out of the room, closing and locking the door behind him.

“What in the world is going on?” asked a very frightened Grammy.

Before Egg or Sylvia could answer, there was a commotion just outside the room. They heard the lock turn then the door opened.

And in stepped the Empress Violetta Veeva Velveeta.

“Oh my gosh”.

Be sure to look for

Sisterhood’s End

The Fourth Series

of

Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood.