The Light of the Blue Planet

By P. R. Garcia

Twenty years have passed since Europa and her family returned to Earth. Prince Enok is following the path the Orbs placed his feet upon – saving the Blue Planet. He is determined to break humanity of their dependence on fossil fuels and, in the process, halt global warming, pollution, species loss and deforestation. He offers the world a new power source – a small golden cube with a grain of bendicor inside (the Oonock metal that powers all their technology). Convincing China of the benefit of free energy, he converts two of their power plants to the new energy source. The world watches, and is amazed and enthralled by the new, free energy.

But not everyone is pleased. Those who have gained their power from or built their empires on fossil fuels see Prince EJ as a threat to their future and fortunes. It does not take long for them to develop a plan to stop the prince. They will go to any lengths, even murder, to keep the world’s population dependent upon fossil fuels.

Prince EJ’s story is told over three novels: The Light of the Blue Planet, The Shadow of Apathy and The Dream of Atlantis.

• Language: English
• Publisher: P. R. Garcia
• Release date: Aug 15, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370707690

P. R. Garcia

P. R. Garcia describes herself as a crazy, not-too-grayed haired old lady. Born during the winter of 1951 in Monroe County, Michigan, the youngest of three children, she attended Western Michigan University, where she majored in zoology. While living in Michigan, she became an award-winning basketweaver, carrying on the tradition of her maternal grandmother, Margaret Dark Feather. In 2008 she moved to southern California and became a volunteer at the Birch Aquarium of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a guide on the Gray whale touring boats. The following year she joined the Whalers, a dedicated group of volunteers from the San Diego Natural History Museum of San Diego, California, whose love of the Pacific cetaceans and other marine life off the shores of California matched her own. As a guide on the Hornblower and Flagship whale-watching boats, she introduced people from around the world to the wonders of the world of the Pacific cetaceans. In 2012 she combined her knowledge of these ocean mammals, her love of science fiction and astronomers’ exciting belief that life exists in the oceans beneath the ice shield of Europa, Jupiter’s ice moon, to create a new trilogy of an alien race from Europa, a race that has lived in our deep oceans for thousands of years. Using legends and known ancient landmarks from Earth’s past, she wove a story of intrigue, mystery, magic and adventure. In 2014 Ms. Garcia added three more books to the story of Europa. In early 2015, she began to tell Europa’s son, Prince Enok’s, story.Now an international bestselling author, Ms. Garcia is currently working on Book 10, which will be about Prince’s EJ’s twin daughters and the search for the destroyed colony on Mars.The Europa Saga may be the first multi-generational science fiction series ever written, spanning five generations of the Waters family. Start your adventure with a free copy of book 1 EUROPA Awakenings at https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/633078For a more traditional account, visit her webpage at http://www.prgarcia1.comSMASHWORDS Author Profile https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/prgarciaPlease remember to leave a review of my book at your favorite retailer.

Book preview

DEDICATION

To Jessica and London, my most precious gifts in this life. May their lives be filled with the songs of birds, the warmth of the sun on their face and the twinkling of dreams in their eyes.

To the San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers, for their love of the incredible cetaceans and other life that calls the Pacific Ocean their home. And for their dedication to the people of San Diego and the world to see the wonder and importance of these creatures through knowledge, sharing and guidance.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

My thanks to D. Williams for her continued dedication to helping me find my errors in grammar and typing. Also to W. Cooley and M. Sixtus, whose editing is much appreciated.

I would like to acknowledge the extraordinary volunteers of the San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers Group for their dedication to the cetaceans and other marine life residing in the waters off southern California and northern Mexico. This dedicated group of volunteers work as naturalists on the whale-watching boats during the gray whale migration season in San Diego during the winter and the blue whale tours in the summer.

NASA’s Godard Institute for Space Studies have reported that the average temperature around the world has risen 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit since 1990. And the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) reports that the eleven of the past twelve years have been the warmest since 1850. Artic ice is rapidly melting and scientist estimate that by 2040, the Artic will experience its first ice-free summer. Glaciers and mountain snows are also rapidly decreasing, resulting in less spring run-off which provides many areas around the world with their freshwater. Another IPCC report states that, if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked, sea levels could rise by as much as 3 feet (0.9 meters) by 2100.

The result is an increase in extreme weather conditions. We are now feeling hotter summers than normal in many areas of the United States. And much colder, artic winters. An increase in the intensity of tornadoes and hurricanes is being seen, as well as more lightning strikes.

Already a shift in animal migrations has been noted. Warmer temperatures may also expand the range of many disease-causing pathogens that are normally confined to tropical and subtropical areas. The result may be plant and animal species being eradicated. In fact, a report in 2013 by the Nature Climate Change states if left unchecked, global warming may cause the disappearance of up to one-half of the Earth’s plants and one-third of animals from their current range by 2080.

In 2007, the IPCC released a report based on the findings of 2500 scientists in more than 130 countries, stating that humans have caused almost all of the current warming on Earth.

When the last tree has been cut down,

The last fish caught,

The last river poisoned,

Only then will we realize one cannot eat money.

Native American Saying

FOREWORD

Six thousand years ago, twenty starships of Oonocks fled the lilac waters of Jupiter’s ice moon, Europa. Two settled on Mars, three were destroyed in their attempt to flee Jupiter’s implosion, twelve traveled far out into space, never to be heard from again, and three starships came to Earth. Choosing a secluded place in the Mediterranean, King Enok and Queen Medaron landed their ships and built a wondrous golden city of advanced technology which became known in history as Atlantis. Unable to hide their existence and advanced technologies, the Oonocks lived peacefully beside humanity for many years. Then one day, the Oonocks received an urgent message from the colony on Mars stating their enemy, JeffRa and his Terrians, had found them and were destroying the planet. In a display of fire and water, the royals sunk their city to the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Over the centuries, the Oonocks lived in their underwater sanctuary and occasionally on land, inspiring many Earthly legends. During one of these times on land, the Oonocks fought a great war with JeffRa and the Terrians at Puma Punku and were able to defeat them. But the cost was tremendous. In addition to loosing over half of the Oonocks, JeffRa had released a biological weapon that prevented their ability to reproduce. Unable to return home, the Oonock race waited for their end.

Then one day Queen Medaron discovered she was with child and a new queen would soon be born. To ensure the daughter would live, the unborn was born on land as a human and named after her homeworld, Europa. To protect her, Europa was never told the truth of who she is or where her parents came from. The day after her twentieth birthday, Europa’s mother is assassinated by their thought-to-be-dead enemy, JeffRa, collapsing Europa’s fabricated world. With the help of her guardian, her brother and a new friend, Europa is able to defeat JeffRa and learn the truth of who her people are. So that she may assume her role as Supreme Monarch and protect her people, the Orbs of FarCore change her into the Oonock she was meant to be and unite her with Kiijon in the Quanundocii, a love so pure, so strong, that it can defeat even death. The remaining Terrians are destroyed. Europa finds a passage through FarCore and takes her people home to the ice moon, where new dangers face Kiijon and her. Europa must prove to the clans’ lords and ladies that she is worthy and qualified to rule the Oonock nation. A new advisory arises and releases an ancient enemy, the Horrturn. Europa and Kiijon endeavor to defeat this invincible creature who is destroying their clans, but it appears there is nothing that can defeat them. When four young Horrturn are captured for study, Europa learns the truth of this formidable creature and the error in their legends: the Horrturn are wondrous, sentient beings also protected by the Orbs and an Ancient named Hygone. Together, they defeat those against them and Europa and Kiijon are embraced as the ruling monarchs.

During this time on the ice moon, Europa and Kiijon have two children: Prince Enok, Jr. and Princess Misso. Her brother, Monarch Earon, has two sons: Princes Terrance Jr. and Giibold. When Prince Enok, Jr, creates a new portal to Earth, Europa quickly announces her desire to return home to the blue planet. Handing over her Right to Rule to Lord Jun, Europa, Kiijon and the royal family return to the waiting arms of her father and their friend, Terrance. But their departure is bittersweet, for Jeanip remains behind on the ice moon and transfers the protection of the royals over to a new protector, Jazee.

Twenty years have passed since the Waters returned to Earth, twenty years of peace and happiness, secluded from humans on their new estate. But nothing lasts forever. Thanks to humanity, the Earth is beginning to die. Global warming, deforestation, species extinction and pollution have taken their poll. Thus begins The Light of the Blue Planet and Prince EJ’s story.

A SOBREE BOX OF HOPE

Boy, it is really coming down out there, Jeanip said, watching the rain batter against the window in the Command Room. I thought you guys said you were having a drought? This is the second rain storm this week.

We are, Prince Enok replied as he entered the room, carrying several diagrams. This side of the states has barely had any rain for the past five years. We certainly need the rain, but not all at one time.

Jeanip looked at the young prince and smiled. He looked so much like his mother, Europa. It had been twenty years since that day a very small prince slipped through the Window of Universes to go fishing with his Grandfather and created the picture of them now hanging in the library, a secret portal to FarCore contained inside the painting. The Orbs, or perhaps the Ancient Hygone herself, had blessed this particular portal with special powers which allowed the Oonock children to grow at a human rate rather than an Oonock rate. Instead of a young infant, before Jeanip stood a twenty-six-year-old man. He surmised it was a way for the Orbs to keep the monarch children safe, for it would be hard to explain why they never aged or grew. Back on Europa, Jeanip’s own son, GarJen, was only a few years younger than Prince Enok, yet he was still an infant barely three feet tall. GarJen would not even become a youngling until he reached a hundred or obtain adulthood until he turned a thousand. Jeanip chuckled to himself, wondering what humans would say if it took their precious children a thousand years to become adults.

Earon, EeRee, King Enok, Europa and Kiijon entered the room and took seats at the table. Moments later, Jazee walked in with a concerned look on his face. Staybo just got an alert from the sensors on the west slope of Elk Bluff. As we feared, the hillside let go and a huge portion slid down the side, taking out a good section of timber and the road. Pulled out a good section of security sensors too. It’s going to take a good week to clear the road and get sensors reinstalled.

Was the cabin damaged? Prince Enok, or EJ, as his family called him, asked.

The slide appears to have occurred a mile or two before the cabin, so we are presuming it is unharmed, Jazee replied, knowing how much EJ loved the cabin. Over the past twenty years the young monarch had spent many happy days and weeks up there. It was his sanctuary, his place where he could always collect himself, re-evaluate his life. But we won’t know for sure, Your Majesty, until the crews can get up there and start clearing away all that dirt and debris.

Will those damaged security sensors cause any break in our security? King Enok asked.

No, Sire, Jazee replied. That part of the estate is pretty isolated and surrounded by hundreds of acres of virgin forests. There are plenty of sensors throughout the unaffected area still operational that would alert us to any intruders. All the sensors for a twenty-mile radius could have been wiped out and it would not hinder the security grid. As long as the perimeter sensors are operational, everything inside is secured, even without sensors.

Just out of curiosity, if we are still just as secure without them, why do we have sensors out there? Europa asked.

We are not ‘as’ secure with them being disabled, Your Majesty, Jeanip smiled. We are simply secured. The sensors are there for the same reason we always have a backup plan for the backup plan. To ensure everything is being done to ensure your and the other monarchs’ safety.

Of course, Europa laughed. She looked lovingly at her once protector, knowing that tomorrow he would return to his mate, Phameena, and his son on Europa. He had remained on Europa when they returned to Earth and only came to visit her and the others three or four times a year.

Okay, EJ, we appear to all be here, King Enok stated. What did you want to talk to us about?

I will begin in a moment, Grandfather, Enok said, as he pulled down and adjusted the large screen on the wall. Giibold and Staybo were running a last-minute report for me that I need for the presentation.

Then perhaps you should have scheduled your meeting a little later, King Enok said. Command meetings are supposed to begin on time.

I remember a few of your meetings that started late, commented Jeanip.

Are you not supposed to be on your way back home to your family, Jeanip? King Enok chided, making Jeanip laugh.

Here we are, yelled Giibold as he and Staybo hurried into the room. Sorry we are late. It took us longer to download the report than we estimated. He walked over to EJ and whispered. Wait until you see the report. You are going to love it. It is all downloaded and ready for your presentation.

Thanks, Cousin, EJ replied. If everyone will take a seat, we will get started. I asked you all here today to discuss a massive problem being experienced on this planet and to offer a solution, which I need your permission to act upon. EJ pushed a button on his remote control and brought up four pictures: one of the air currents fifty years ago and one of todays, and one of the ocean currents for each time period also. Despite humans’ efforts to slow global warming, it still continues. Each year the hurricanes grow stronger, larger and more destructive around the world. EJ displayed on the screen images of destroyed villages and entire islands completely destroyed. Tornadoes wreak havoc all across the globe. He now changed the images to show entire towns destroyed, forests decimated, and rows of body bags. Once the rarity, F4 and F5 tornadoes are becoming common, fueled by the changes in Mother Nature. Not only has the Arctic ice cap melted, but now the Antarctic ice has begun to melt too. Already the ocean levels have risen enough to flood much of Japan, Southeast Asia, Florida and parts of the States’ east coast. Venice is almost entirely gone. Pictures of Venice appeared on the screen showing much of the city deserted, once homes and shops covered with a foot of water. There were pictures of former beaches in Miami showing large hotels which had lost their battle with the ocean waters and now lay crumbled, huge sections sticking up out of the water. A picture of the Statue of Liberty appeared, showing the grassy knoll around the statue completely gone, now underwater. There were also pictures of New York City where the streets, once congested with humans, were now empty, covered in water. A shot of Long Island showed few structures still standing. As you can see by just these few photos, the devastation is unbelievable. And here are the culprits. Prince Enok changed the image to show the four graphs again. A perplexed look covered his face as he stared at the image. Giibold, are these graphs correct?

Told you that you were going to love them, Giibold giggled with excitement. That is what took us so long. We could not believe the data either and ran it three times to make sure. What you see is correct.

This is beyond anything I imagined, EJ softly commented.

What is it, EJ? Europa asked, noting the look on her son’s face. What is wrong?

These diagrams represent both the air streams and ocean currents as they were fifty years ago and as they are today. As you can see, both have changed. While it is true that some air streams change due to various factors, the two represented here, the polar and the subtropical jet streams, are pretty constant. But as you can see, both have changed considerably. The streams have slowed and their course is less meandering and flattened out. The result in what we have today – a downpour. This change is also causing the devastating tornados being seen, the destructive thunderstorms, huge accumulations of snow and frigid cold throughout most of the United States. At the same time, it is causing the drought conditions across parts of the U.S., especially Texas. But this is the most disturbing thing I have seen to date. Prince Enok walked up to the screen and, using his finger, traced the location of today’s Atlantic upper hemisphere deep ocean current along the eastern seaboard. This stream, the deep ocean conveyor belt, appears to have shifted position further off-shore and is no longer following its normal course. Also, the North Atlantic Equatorial Stream shown here has begun to reverse directions.

Can they do that? Earon asked. Change directions?

Before today, I would have said it was impossible, but before our very eyes is the proof they can, Earon said as he took a seat, his knees suddenly feeling too unstable to hold his body upright. The ramifications of such an even is unimaginable.

What effects will this have on the Earth? a concerned Europa asked. Seeing her son was too overwhelmed to reply, she turned to Giibold. Giibold, can you tell us?

Yes, Aunt Europa, Giibold said as he stood. In addition to the stronger land and sea storms, a change in ocean current direction would disrupt the upwelling of nutrients from the ocean floor, thus starving plankton. And without planktonic life, the entire food chain will collapse, thus leaving Earth devoid of any animal life. The conveyor belt is a vital component of the global ocean nutrient and carbon dioxide cycles. A disruption in its flow would also warm the oceans even further.

What time period are we talking about? Earon asked.

Probably within the next decade, EJ responded. Everything in the ocean will be wiped out first. Then life on land will disappear. Those lucky enough to find enough food on land to stay alive will be struck down by pestilence and disease. The amount of carnage along every coastline in the world will make the plagues of the bible look like child’s play.

This decade? a sorrowful Europa asked. Is there nothing we can do to prevent this from happening?

EJ stood again, cleared his throat and walked back over to the screen. That is exactly why I have asked all of you here today. Uncle Earon, along with TJ and some of his college students, did some calculations for me. If we can stop, and hopefully reverse, the effects of global warming, we can avert this tragedy.

And how do you intend to stop global warming? King Enok asked, curious as to what his grandson had in mind.

With this, Grandfather. On the screen was the picture of a small gold cube, one inch by one inch by one inch. All the sides were perfectly smooth except for the top, which contained a small port opening.

What is it? Kiijon asked.

It is the salvation of Earth, Dattwa, EJ beamed. "It is a sealed case made of pure soobree. It is a new power source that can be used to fuel power plants around the world. It produces no pollution, no radiation, nothing that is harmful to humans, animals, plants or the environment."

And what is inside this miracle cube that allows it to accomplish such a feat? King Enok asked, although he was pretty sure he already knew the answer.

"A very small piece of bendicor the size of a pea," EJ replied, holding his breath as he waited for the onslaught of objections.

"Bendicor?" a shocked Kiijon asked.

‘You are not serious?" Earon stated.

No, shouted King Enok, as he pounded his fist on the table as he stood up. "It has long been Oonock policy not to give humans Oonock technology, especially bendicor. It is too powerful and they are still too aggressive to trust with such power. Can you imagine what would happen if a warring country used it to power weapons? They could wipe out half the world’s population in a blink of an eye."

You mean like what we did to our weapons when we fought the Terrians? Jeanip asked.

Have you not returned home yet? an irritated King Enok stated.

I will soon, Sire, Jeanip laughed. I remember a time when you were willing to share Oonock technology.

That was before I knew the heart of mankind, King Enok replied. Before I knew of his greed for money, his desire to dominate his fellow man, his need for power. You saw how those we called friends in Asia eventually turned against us, demanding we share our technology with them.

What about your first city? Atlantis? Earon asked. I thought you lived harmoniously with those humans.

Had JeffRa not attacked Mars and fixed his sights on Earth next, forcing us to sink the city, they too would have turned on us, King Enok replied. It had already begun. They were not content to live in the richness of our advanced ways; they wanted to own them.

Your Grandfather did try to share some technology with the Egyptians, Jeanip stated. He gave them Oonock tools that helped lift the large heavy stones that make up the pyramids.

One of the worst things I ever did, King Enok said. The ruler made himself a pharaoh, a god over others. He used the gift I gave him to enslave thousands of others. I vowed never to give humans the gift of Oonock technology again, and I have kept that promise.

But I am not talking about the humans of long ago, Grandfather, EJ explained further, hoping to convince his Grandfather that his plan was good. "They have made huge leaps in technology, so our superior ways would not seem strange to them anymore. Plus, there are so many good humans. Look at Uncle Terrance. I have heard you say many times if it were not for him Mattwa and Uncle Earon would be dead. Even the Oonocks on Europa know of the great Terrance, the quanish of Queen Europa."

King Enok looked at his grandson. I am an old king, a king who has perhaps seen too much hate and evil. A king who has ruled longer than he should have. The decision to share a piece of Oonock technology I leave up to your parents. They are the true king and queen of this world. It is their decision to make, and also their burden to bear if it goes wrong.

So, EJ, if we decide to give the go-ahead with your plan, and I say if, what is the financial commitment and what precautions will be taken to ensure the humans do not use it for war? Kiijon asked.

The initial investment will be high, EJ replied, as he reached into his pocket and brought out the golden energy cube. Since no one has ever tried or offered anything like this before, countries are going to be skeptical. We need to get at least two plants up and running to show the world this can be accomplished; there is a way to have clean energy that will not harm them or the environment. Because of their huge pollution problem, China has agreed to be our guinea pig.

At what cost? Kiijon asked again.

EJ turned his attention to Giibold. Latest estimate is five point three billion dollars.

Five point three billion dollars? asked an anxious King Enok. And where do you propose to get that kind of money?

From the Oonock accounts, EJ boldly stated. Look, I know it is a lot of money, but the Oonock race currently has what? Over a trillion dollars in accounts around the world? Plus, there is even more gold and precious jewels stored below we have not even converted to money. And we still continue to find sunken, forgotten ship filled with valuables. The one we found last year was worth two hundred and sixty two million dollars. Besides, if we do not use the money to help the humans, they and this planet are going to die, which means there will be no stores where we can even spend that money. Then what are we going to do with it? Pave our sidewalks with diamonds and rubies, make our homes out of gold?

He does have a point, Jeanip stated.

No one asked you, Jeanip, King Enok grumbled, making Jeanip laugh again.

As for how to ensure the humans never use the power source for war, the security system is pure genius, EJ smiled. Something Soojay and Tigbee created. I will let Soojay explain it to you.

Soojay walked to the front of the room and picked up the small golden cube off the table. He turned it around and over so each could clearly see the design. As you can see, the cube is completely void of anything except for this small port on top. He reached into his pocket and brought out a small security keypad two by three inches, a connection wire extended from the side. The entire apparatus is pretty small, so I will show you on the screen. This security screen in my hand plugs into the port on top of the cube. As with all bendicor, the small stone inside is inactive and will remain so until activated by either EJ or Giibold. To activate the stone, a three-step activation sequence must be followed exactly. One of the two princes must place a finger on this area of the keypad that will read their DNA. Since a human cannot replicate Oonock DNA, there is no way to trick the activation sequence. Soojay pointed to a small round circle on the keypad. Next, they enter an activation code using the key pad. Lastly, they verbally enter a different activation code and immediately place the cube in its housing. If the cube is not properly installed in the power machine within two minutes, the activation sequence will terminate and the cube is worthless.

What’s to prevent someone from stealing the codes and some of their DNA? Earon asked. While an impressive security protocol, I do not believe this is high security.

Soojay smiled at the doubting monarch. Remember, I said you must enter all three steps in the proper sequence? Each cube is built just twenty four hours before it is needed. Each cube will have different activation codes, different activation sequences and be specific for only one of the prince’s DNA. And not all three steps are used each time. Take this cube here in my hand. Let’s say it was designed for prince Enok’s DNA. He and he alone programs the cube on what sequence to accept. It could be DNA, verbal, verbal; manual input, verbal, DNA; manual, DNA, manual; or any other combination he chooses. And you only get one chance to enter the information in the right sequence. So no one could activate the bendicor by trial-and-error.

Very impressive, Jeanip said.

But what about after it is activated? Europa asked.

We have that covered too, Mattwa, EJ smiled. "To make sure the bendicor never falls into human hands, if the small soobree box of bendicor is ever removed from its housing, it will immediately self-destruct."

Self-destruct? King Enok asked. That would cause an explosion one to two hundred miles wide. The destruction would be immense.

We figured closer to three hundred, Giibold replied. Every country who converts over to our energy source will be made to realize the danger of trying to remove the bendicor.

But wouldn’t such a device be the perfect object for someone who wanted to destroy an enemy? EeRee asked, trying to comprehend the idea. If I wanted to get rid of China, I could pull all the bendicor boxes and annihilate the entire country in seconds.

So one would think, EJ answered. And they would have, had your son not come up with the perfect solution. He, along with some brilliant engineers from Europa, managed to make the bendicor useless within thirty seconds of being removed. All the stealer will get is a little puff of smoke.

Such a thing is possible? Europa asked. "One of the beauties of bendicor is the fact that it is eternal; it cannot be destroyed and its power is constant. How can it be made inert? All that released energy has to go somewhere.

I assure you, Mattwa, such a thing is possible, EJ replied, giving his mother a huge smile. Never underestimate the ability and genius of your people. Our scientists, chemists and engineers discovered that if reduced to a liquid form, bendicor is no more volatile than a drop of rain.

A liquid? Jeanip asked, astounded to hear such a thing was possible. How can you melt a solid rock into a liquid?

Giibold is the chemist, EJ answered. I will let him explain.

You are right, Uncle Jeanip. A stone cannot be melted down into a liquid, Giibold stated. But it can be dissolved. Our chemists discovered that the lilac waters of Europa’s Triizin is able to dissolve the chemicals in bendicor and render it inert.

Triizin? Europa asked. The same Triizin that is used in the fountains at the complex and at the palace on Europa?

Yes, Aunt Europa, Giibold replied. In fact, we also discovered that Triizin is simply a liquid form of bendicor. Apparently the chemical developed on Europa in two forms: one in liquid form, which contains no destructive properties, and one in solid form that contains an enormous amount of harnessable energy.

Intriguing, King Enok quietly muttered.

Did you say something, Father? Europa asked.

No, the king replied, now anxious to see if the reigning king and queen would approve their son’s endeavor or not.

But how does the piece of bendicor turn into a liquid? Kiijon asked.

There is a small vial of Triizin inside the cube, Giibold continued. When the cube is removed, the vial instantly breaks and dissolves the stone of bendicor. Since the stone is so small, only a small amount of Triizin is needed and could easily be contained in the cube.

So what do you think? EJ anxiously asked. Do we have your approval to proceed?

This is something your mother and I must discuss amongst ourselves, Kiijon replied. And even though he has left the decision in our hands, we also want to discuss this with your Grandfather, along with Uncle Earon, Aunt EeRee, Uncle Jeanip and Jazee. We will give you our decision tomorrow.

Tomorrow? asked a disappointed prince. I was hoping to be in China tomorrow.

Tomorrow, Kiijon reiterated.

Later that evening, EJ tossed and turned in bed trying to fall asleep, but unable to. He was just too excited to know what the adults had decided. He looked at his clock once more – only midnight. It was going to be a long night until morning. As he tried he get comfortable he heard his door open.

I hope you have your bags packed, because it looks like you’re leaving for China tomorrow, Kiijon said, as he poked his head into his son’s room, then closed the door. As he walked towards his own room, he heard the young prince scream out in joy.

HOMECOMING

John Drier leaned back in his leather chair and looked out his office windows at the New York buildings below. From this advantage point on the one hundred and fourteenth floor, he had the best view of the city. He was sure his corner office made of glass had a better view than even his father’s office. But why shouldn’t he have the best view? After all, he was the next in line for the presidency of the company. For someone only twenty-eight, he was doing great; an apartment in Manhattan, a home in the Hamptons, a vacation home in Hawaii and the family villa on the Riviera that he had access to whenever he wanted. Yes, life indeed was good. And this new deal he was about to close with China’s new leader would make him even richer. So what if his plants weren’t the most environmentally friendly machines. They produced energy, something China needed to power its vast multitude of factories and its peoples’ homes.

Enter, John said, when he heard a soft knock at the door.

His secretary poked her head through the door. Excuse me, Mr. Drier. You said you wanted to know when Mr. Appleton arrived.

Yes, John said, sitting upright in his chair. Show him in right away. He stood up and walked over to the bar to pour himself a tall drink of scotch. Carl, would you like something to drink? he asked the older man as he walked through the door. By the look on your face, you look as if you could use one.

Yes, thank you, the elder said, as he walked over to the desk and took the seat in front.

I hope that face doesn’t mean you have bad news for me, John laughed, as he sat the drink down in front of his production supervisor before taking a seat behind his desk. So why the long face?

Before he answered, Carl drank his drink straight down, then summoned his strength to tell his employer his news. The Chinese have decided they are no longer interested in our product. They have cancelled their order.

John leaned forward, a look of anger on his face. What do you mean they no longer want our product? This was a done deal. Without it they will not have enough energy to power their new factories. What in the hell is going on,

Remember, I told you about a new company a few years back that was trying to develop a new energy source, one that produces no pollution and costs almost nothing to operate? Carl replied. Apparently they have succeeded and have convinced the Chinese government that their power plant is better for China than ours. They are already building a new plant that is costing less than half of what one of ours does, and are converting another plant at almost no cost what so ever.

Damn, John screamed as he threw his glass at the side wall, shattering it into a million pieces. Miss Avant, get James Skeller in my office NOW. Within minutes the two men heard footsteps running down the hallway towards his office.

Without even knocking, a muscular, tall male entered the room. You called for me, Mr. Drier?

I have a job for you, John replied. Carl just informed me that another company has secured the building of the new power plant in China. I want to know everything about this company; who the owners are and who their engineers are.

James turned to address Carl. What’s the name of the company?

Waters Enterprises, Carl replied.

And the owner?

A Mr. Enok Waters, Jr.

____________

Europa picked up her coffee cup and walked over to the kitchen sink, dumped out the small amount of coffee still inside, squirted some dish soap inside, washed the cup and then rinsed it. She became occupied with her thoughts as she looked out the kitchen window at the backyard and beach below as the water spilled out over the brim of her cup.

A penny for your thoughts, Kiijon said, as he walked up behind her and wrapped his arms loving around her. You appear to be a million miles away.

No, not a million miles, Europa replied, as Kiijon’s embrace brought her back to reality. Back twenty years. She turned off the water and placed the clean coffee cup in the dish rack. Her hands now free, she wrapped her arms around Kiijon’s. I just cannot believe we have been back here on Earth for twenty years. And tomorrow we will be celebrating Misso’s right to rule, just like my mother did with me not so long ago.

Twenty beautiful, wonderful years, Kiijon added. Still glad we came back here?

Oh, yes, Europa replied, turning around in her true love’s embrace. I have never regretted returning here. Not even once. To be with Father and to get to talk with Mother’s essence in the ocean has been something I would not have wanted to miss. Plus, feeling the sun on my face, seeing the blue sky each day and waking to the sound of birds singing has been a dream come true.

And here I thought it was I who brought a smile to your face each morning, Kiijon teased, as he gave her a warm smile.

Europa lifted her right hand and rested it alongside Kiijon’s cheek. You are, My Dearest Mate. But I would be happy living anywhere in this universe with you. Being on Earth just makes it extra special.

That it does, Kiijon said, as he lowered his lips to hers and kissed her lovingly. He knew nothing could be more perfect than the life the two of them had created. And he also knew their love for each other had grown tenfold since their arrival twenty years ago.

Excuse me, Your Majesties, Jazee said as he entered the room, breaking the monarchs’ kiss. Kliindeero just received word from the complex that your father and Princess Misso will be here in time for night meal tonight.

Wonderful, smiled Europa, as she slipped from Kiijon’s embrace. Have you heard any more from either Jeanip or EJ?

Jeanip states he will be here tomorrow morning, Jazee answered. Prince Enok should be here any minute. The security scanners indicated they crossed onto the property about twenty minutes ago.

Thank goodness, Europa replied. I was afraid he would not be able to return in time for the celebration. I know he is at a critical point in his energy conversion.

And miss my little sister’s big day? Prince Enok asked, as he and Swaybuk walked into the room. No energy crisis could keep me away.

Enok, it is so good to have you home finally, Europa said, as she rushed to hug her son. EJ scooped his mother into his arms and swung her around, making her giggle before he brought her into his arms. He leaned down and kissed her forehead.

It is good to be home, EJ said. He then hugged Kiijon and Jazee.

Good day, Your Majesties, Swaybuk said, as he entered the room, raising his hand to his forehead and bowing. Ever since young Enok had floated through the Window of Universes, the large Oonock had never left the young prince’s side. Jazee. He nodded towards his commander.

Welcome home, Swaybuk, Europa said, hugging her son’s protector. I hope our son has not given you too much trouble.

Swaybuk chuckled. No, Your Majesty. Although he sometimes gives this old body a run for its money, he is a joy to protect. You would be very proud of his behavior, his efficiency in diplomacy and the great progress he has made in helping save this planet. He definitely has his father’s charm, his mother’s charisma and his Grandfather’s wisdom.

That is good to hear, Kiijon said, as he now gave Swaybuk a hug hello. Although not a normal Oonock greeting, the soldier was used to the affection shown him by the two young monarchs. I am sure your teachings have also contributed greatly to those accomplishments.

Where’s Misso? EJ asked, as he looked around the room.

She is still down at the complex with your Grandfather, Europa replied. Jazee was just informing us that both will be here later today in time for night meal.

EJ quickly looked at his watch. Great! That gives me just enough time to transform and get some swimming done in the ocean. He quickly kissed his mother on the cheek and headed towards the back door. I will be back in time for night meal.

Wait, Enok, Kiijon yelled, trying to catch the fleeting youth. What about our report on your project?

You will find it on my tablet in my briefcase, EJ replied, as he ran across the yard towards the beach. He had spent the last ten months in China building a new power plant and converting another. He had not had the opportunity to transform into a dolphin or whale and enjoy the wonders of the ocean during that time. He was determined not to do anything until he had swum to his heart content.

What about something to eat? Europa yelled.

I am sure there are plenty of fish in the ocean to fill my stomach, he laughed back.

He’s talked about nothing else for the past week except transforming into a whale and working off some of his pent-up energy, Swaybuk stated, as he hurried off after his charge. I promise, Queen Europa, to have him home in time for night meal. He looked ahead and saw the young prince had reached the edge of the beach and was in the process of taking his shoes and pants off. Prince Enok, please wait for me, he shouted to the now-naked human.

Jazee quickly called Kliindeero on his radio. Kliindeero, Jazee here. Prince Enok is going into the water. Notify the dolphin squad and tell them to keep an eye on him.

Jazee, it will take the squad about twenty minutes to reach him, Kiijon said, seeing the concerned look on his mate’s face. Send Forbee, Twiiguard, Skiquam and Jumma to go with him until the squad gets there. With those sightings of those great whites of late, I don’t want Enok out there without added protection.

Yes, Sire, Jazee replied, then relayed the orders to Kliindeero. "All are on their way, Your Highness.

Kiijon walked over and wrapped his arms around Europa and kissed her forehead as he always did when she was worried. Don’t worry, Europa. It’s been four days since any sharks have been seen in the bay. And the shark net is up at the bay’s entrance to the open ocean, so no new sharks have entered. Besides, Swaybuk is with him and Enok is a superb whale. He knows to be careful until he transforms into a Moby and, once he does, nothing out there will bother him.

Europa looked up into his lilac eyes, the same lilac eyes that had always brought her joy and peace. As always, you are right, My Love. Sometimes I forget he is a grown male in human years, and not my little Oonock infant still needing my protection, as he would be if we had remained on Europa.

Tell ya what, Kiijon smiled. Why don’t you and I go outside and sit on the beach and watch Enok splash around in the bay? You’ve been working so hard these last few days getting everything ready for Misso’s celebration. You deserve a few hours to just sit and rest.

I still have a lot to do before she arrives home later, Europa said, as she slipped out of her mate’s embrace. I need to get busy.

Kiijon reached out for her hand, halting her withdrawal. Indulge me, Europa. Sit with me for an hour or two. Enjoy the morning with me. It’s been a while since the two of us sat on the beach listening to the sounds of the ocean.

That it has, Europe replied, as she leaned into him and kissed him lovingly on the lips. Lead the way, Kind Sir.

Kiijon extended his arm into which his mate slipped hers. Together they walked down the path to the beach and spent the next two hours sitting on the bench, curled up inside each other’s arms as their oldest splashed and played in the ocean waters.

____________

Prince Enok reveled in the salty ocean waters. At first he transformed into a bottlenose dolphin, dashing from one end of the bay to the other, jumping into the air and doing somersaults. After giving both himself and his guards a good workout, he transformed into a humpback. He leapt into the air and landed back in the water on his side, sending a huge torrent of water into the air. He laid on his side and played a game of tag with the guards who remained dolphins. They would swim by and he would try to slap them with his large pectoral fin. But the dolphins were too fast and he missed each one. When his parents returned to the house, Enok and his entourage swam out of the bay into the open ocean for a long swim as sperm whales. Although he loved being in the form of a humpback or dolphin, it was the form of a sperm whale that he loved most. Possibly because it was the form needed to descend down to the complex, the form his race had been taking for millennia in order to exist on Earth. Somehow it felt like being home when he took that shape.

Sire, by the position of the sun we only have about an hour before night meal will be ready, he heard Swaybuk say inside his mind. We need to start heading back. Plus, I am sure the dolphin squad need to get back to their protection duties.

Okay, Swaybuk, Earon replied. Let us head back. Captain Stargree, thank you for your squad’s watchful eyes over me today. Please feel free to return to your duties.

Any time, Your Majesty, Captain Stargree replied. We will escort you back to the bay before we resume our patrol duties.

When the group reached the mouth of the bay, everyone transformed from Mobies into bottlenose dolphins. The dolphin squad swam off to continue their patrol of the area, keeping their monarchs safe at all times just as they had protected Europa and Earon when they were on Saint’s Isle. Enok, Swaybuk and the other four guards swam towards the beach.

When the water became shallow enough, the six swimmers transformed into human form. As they walked out of the water, they all headed over to a small changing house where clothes awaited them. Except for EJ. Instead of continuing toward the enclosure, he took off running down the beach where he saw a young female in a swimsuit sunbathing. He stopped next to her, shaking his body and hair, spraying saltwater all over her.

I thought you might like a little cooling off, Enok laughed.

Aw, screamed Misso as she sat up and opened her eyes. Enok, stop. You are getting us all wet. And put some damn clothes on. I have no desire to see your naked body again. I saw enough of it when you were little running around naked all the time. And I am sure Medi does not care to see it either.

Medi? EJ asked as he suddenly noticed the second female, a human, next to his sister. He quickly dropped to the ground and grabbed his sister’s towel, placing it around his waist. I’m sorry, Medi. I thought Misso was here by herself.

No need to apologize, Your Majesty. It is always nice to see your beautiful body once again, Medi teased, causing Prince Enok’s face to turn a bright red.

Prince Enok, remember your mother’s rule, Swaybuk said in an irritated voice, as he walked up and threw a pair of swim trunks at the young monarch. Clothing is to worn at all times. You need to put these on.

I must have forgotten, EJ replied, although he knew Swaybuk knew he hadn’t forgotten. He wanted to tease his sister, but this time his prank had backfired because of Medi. He quickly slipped into the bathing suit, covering his nakedness

More like you wanted to harass your little sister, Swaybuk chuckled. Good day, Princess Misso, Miss Medi, Spinner. I hope you weren’t too upset by our young prince’s display.

I think we will survive the horror of it, Medi said, as she gave Swaybuk a wink. The old soldier quickly turned his head so his young charge would not see the laughter on his face.

Did Grandfather come with you? EJ asked Misso.

He is up at the house with Dad and Mom, Misso replied.

How did you enjoy your vacation? EJ asked, as he towel-dried his hair. Since Medi knew nothing of the complex, he could not state where his sister and grandfather had really been. Even though she was the daughter of Terrance and Teerdomay and had been raised with Enok and Misso, she, like her two brothers, had no idea that their cousins, aunt, uncles and their mother were aliens. The true nature of who the Waters were was kept from them in order to keep both the children and the Oonocks safe, just as it had been kept from Europa when she was growing up. How long were you gone?

As always, it was fantastic, Misso replied. I was gone for three weeks this time. I will tell you all about it later.

I look forward to hearing all about it, EJ said, as he stood up and kissed his sister on the forehead. I am going to go see Grandfather. Nice to see you again, Medi. Spinner.

Always nice to see you, Medi said, giving the young prince a tantalizing smile. Especially when I get to see all of that beautiful body, she whispered to Misso, who giggled. EJ’s face flashed bright red again as he heard his young cousin’s remarks.

Welcome home, Prince Enok, Spinner replied. It will be nice to have you and Swaybuk back. She directed her attention to the tall soldier standing before her. Perhaps, Swaybuk, if you are free later I could go over some new security ideas with you.

I will try to make time, Swaybuk answered, giving Spinner a big smile. The thought of spending time with his co-protector warmed his heart. He was very fond of Spinner, but he always assured himself it was because together they had protected Enok in his first year here on Earth. Once Misso turned a year old, Spinner became her nanny. Yet somehow the two always found time to spend together. But both were dedicated soldiers guarding their young monarchs. The idea that their fondness for each other could be anything other than mutual friendship never crossed their minds. I will see you up at the house in a few minutes. Having said that, he followed his charge up the path and into the backdoor.

THE GIFT OF BENDICOR

After a wonderful family meal where nothing of importance was discussed, as was the Oonock custom, Misso and Medi went upstairs to allow the other to discuss important matters.

Thank you, Doogon and Sinwee, for a wonderful meal as always, King Enok stated. I do not think I could have eaten another meal of squid and raw fish.

Father, you better be careful, Earon teased. You keep eating nothing but mostly human food and you are going to turn into one.

And what’s so terrible about that? laughed Terrance.

What, indeed, chuckled King Enok. Perhaps I should have Doogon make me a big pot of Sillrig so I reacquire my taste for Oonock food.

No, please do not, Europa quickly