Riser: Tayana Series Book #1

By Adalaid Rhodes

Captain Luke Stokes never imagined he would ever be more than just a soldier, but when he refuses to let tyranny destroy the galaxy he loves so much he gains an adversary that will test Luke in ways he never imagined. All the while trying to overcome his own personal obstacles.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 16, 2022
• ISBN: 9781665530682

Adalaid Rhodes

Adalaid Rhodes is an author who has always loved creating stories and characters. She believes a good imagination is a beautiful thing. She has finally decided to share one of stories with you. She hopes you will make yourself part of this world she has created.

Book preview

Chapter 1

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W hen Luke awoke, he was back on the ship. He barely remembered him and Kalani being rescued. He looked around and realized he was in the med bay. His eyes moved around the room. A few rooms over he saw Kalani. Kalani was his friend, on and off lover, but most of all someone he trusted completely. Sudden worry overwhelmed him, and he started to jump up to check on her. The hot streak of pain that shot through his leg would not allow him to get up though. Then a surge of weakness pushed him back into the bed the rest of the way.

Dr. Ramos saw Luke moving and went in to check on him. Luke was glad to see Dr. Ramos. Dr. Ramos was his ships doctor, which meant somehow, they had made it back. But Luke would worry about the details later, the only thing he was concerned with right now was Kalani. Dr. Ramos told Luke that they needed to talk about Luke first. He told Luke his knee needed surgery and would still take quite a while to heal after the surgery. He told him his shoulder was broken also but had already begun to heal. Then the doctor’s tone changed, and he took a deep breath.

I know you and Kalani keep it hidden how close you two really are but I’m pretty sure you two are whole lot closer than anyone would imagine. Dr. Ramos said. Luke started to jump in and say something, but the doctor would have none of it and continued. I know they used Kalani as a blood donor to help you heal from whatever inhuman tests, they were putting you through. She is very weak. She needs to conserve as much energy as possible to be able to build back up.

What are you getting at doc? Luke asked glancing over toward Kalani.

The doctor swallowed hard as if the words he was getting ready to stay were choking him. Kalani is pregnant. The thing is, if we don’t do something about it, it will kill her.

Shocked by what the doctor was telling him Luke just sat in like a trance for a moment then asked. How far along is she?

A couple of months. But we only have a short amount of time for this to work. Dr. Ramos said waiting for Luke’s response.

Luke just sat kind of asking the questions to himself. A couple of months? Why didn’t she tell me? I know she had to have known. He looked over at Kalani again.

The doctor answered Luke’s questions. She probably never got the chance with you two being captured and all.

Still confused Luke said. She would have had weeks. We were only captive for a couple weeks.

Dr. Ramos stared at Luke for a moment giving Luke a chance to calm down. "Luke you two were captive for almost two months. She would have just gotten pregnant before y’all were captured.

Luke thought for a while. Two months. He stared into space, thinking back on it. Then a big grin came to his face. Never mind I know when it happened. Then he got serious. What can I do to help her? You can’t just terminate the pregnancy! What do you mean by ‘we’ only have a short amount of time? For what to work?" Luke’s mind was racing. It was making it hard for him to absorb all the doctor was saying.

The doctor looked over at Kalani. I never said terminate the pregnancy because there is another option, but you will be doing most of the help. The look of desperation and confusion on Luke’s face made it twice as hard for Dr. Ramos to tell Luke what he needed to. He had no idea how Luke would react. See with you being part Strada and Kayla being Serinian, you will be able to carry the child for Kalani. We will transfer the fetus to you. Dr. Ramos said quickly and then took a step back and waited for Luke’s reaction.

Luke sat and thought on what the doctor had said. You want me to carry the child? What happens at the end? When it comes? Shouldn’t we talk to Kalani about this? I mean wait for her to wake up?

Dr. Ramos took on a very urgent tone and leaned over to Luke. If we don’t do this now Kalani will never wake up. The baby is literally draining the life out of her. You got to decide. You can either be a little uncomfortable for a few months and save them both or do nothing and probably lose one or both of them. And don’t worry about the end. We will have a chamber to safely move the fetus to once you are far enough along that it is safe to do so.

Uncomfortable already with the situation Luke began to fidget in the bed causing a sharp pain to radiate from his knee throughout his whole body. Well… Guess I’ll be out of commission for a while anyways with this knee. One thing though. Luke looked the doctor straight in the eye.

What is that? The doctor asked

That we tell no one whatsoever about this. No one but Kalani, you, and I are to know! Luke said still staring into the doctor’s eyes.

The doctor shuffled his feet a little. Keeping his head down he quietly said, Well I had to call an old friend of mine from Nayla who will be boarding when we stop tomorrow to refuel. I’ve never done a transfer before and he is an expert. I told the bridge he’s just an old friend visiting me for a little while.

Luke was frustrated but understood. Fine. But no one else.

Yes Captain. The doctor saluted Luke and smiled.

I can’t believe I am doing this. Kalani is going to flip. Luke said laying back in the bed covering his face with his hands.

The next day Dr. Ramos’s colleague, Dr. Weeks, arrived and they did the surgery on Luke. Dr. Ramos repaired Luke’s knee and Dr. Weeks did the transfer. It was four days after the surgery when Luke finally woke. He noticed his knee was now in a brace and he had sensors all over his abdomen. Looking for an incision and not finding one he got concerned and waved down Dr. Weeks who was standing just outside his room.

Dr. Weeks came in and asked, What’s the matter?

Luke asked. Did the procedure go ok? Noticing Kalani’s bed was empty Luke also asked, Where is Kalani?

Dr. Weeks smiled. The procedure and your knee surgery both went very well. We kept you sedated for a couple days to make sure everything took. You are now a very two days pregnant. Oh, and Kalani is doing a lot better now and was able to go back to her room to continue recuperating. We thought it would be better for her healing if she didn’t see you hooked up to all these machines and probes. We haven’t told her about the baby yet either. We thought it would be best coming from you."

Luke was relieved to hear everything had gone well. Good. Now tell me. What do I have to look forward to during this experience?

Dr. Weeks turned to the door as Dr. Ramos came in. I will let Dr. Ramos tell you about that. I’m going to go check on Kalani.

Dr. Ramos came over and sat in the chair next to Luke’s bed. You did well daddy. He smiled at Luke.

Yeah, yeah, jokes can come later. Tell me truth. Is Kalani and the baby ok? Luke asked

Dr. Ramos kept smiling. Calm down. They are both fine. It was you we were worried about. I did not realize how weak you still are from your ordeal. We operated on your knee and almost lost you. It took two days to get you stable enough to transfer the fetus. We had to keep you sedated and under very close observation. I forget how strong you are and that something may be wrong, and you don’t even really feel it. He gave Luke a concerned look. Your body has really been through a lot these last couple months. If you notice anything weird just let me know. Other than that, you and the baby are fine.

Hearing it put that way seemed very awkward to Luke. Then he noticed he actually had his hand resting on his abdomen and quickly moved it before anyone noticed.

The doctor saw this and chuckled. That’s instinct. It will get stronger too. Then the doctor showed him where the baby was right above his belly button. He told Luke he could expect the normal pregnancy symptoms, nausea, hot flashes, mood swings, cramping, back aches, headaches, and increased appetite.

Luke laughed. Sounds like I’m pregnant.

Dr. Ramos was surprised by Luke’s attitude. Luke was not usually the joking kind. Especially not lately. In fact, getting a smile from the man had become one of Dr. Ramos’s personal goals. I’m glad you are keeping your humor. Now we will talk about your knee. The doctor said showing Luke the incision and the brace. You are to put NO weight on it for at least a week. Then I might let you use crutches. It will also depend on your shoulder. A knee injury like this would usually take someone about a year to fully recover from surgery and go through therapy. You may not heal as fast as Kalani but you still heal twice as fast as I would. So, it will probably be about six months before your knee is back to normal. But to make it heal as fast as possible, for now, you and this bed will be good friends. Some of the crew is wanting to talk to you. I sill let them in if you want, but if you start trying to get up, I will make them leave.

Ok, I got it. Bed, stay, no standing. But when do I get to see Kalani? Luke asked looking defeated.

Walking out of the room Dr. Ramos turned back to Luke. Well, she will probably be up before you so in the next day or so.

Chapter 2

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T he crew began to file in one by one with all kinds of problems. Usually, Luke would have been able to handle the problems easily, but for some reason he couldn’t seem to wrap his head around any of them. It almost got overwhelming, which was something else he never experienced. He looked down at his abdomen and said, What have you done to me.?

About that time his second in command, Mark, walked in. Who are you talking to?

Luke’s eyes jerked up to Mark. Oh no one just thinking out loud. So, what’s going on? He sat up more in the bed noticing this time there was no shooting pain. He did notice how tired he had become though. Something about Mark seemed different, but Luke dismissed it figuring it was because he hadn’t seen him in a while.

Mark just stood looking at him for a minute. Man look at you. I’ve never seen you like this all hooked up to machines and in bed like this. You usually bounce back or never go down. What happened down there?

Luke thought about it a moment. He decided telling Mark that he had begun to remember every minute of being held captive might make Mark think he was emotionally unable to perform his duties as Captain so he just said. I really don’t remember. The last memory I have is us going to the planet, landing, lots of gunfire, being cold, and then it skips to waking up here. As he talked, he remembered what he had been put through and even surprised himself at how unfazed he was by the experience. He wasn’t really sure he was ready to talk to anybody about it yet though. The important thing right now was that him and Kalani had made it back safe.

Mark looked frustrated. How can you be so laid back about all this. We, I mean they put you through a lot. Plus, doesn’t it bother you Kalani is in her own bed uninjured resting it up while here you are laid up in a hospital bed hooked to a bunch of wires. You even have to have two heart monitors.

Starting to get aggravated at Marks remarks Luke gave him a harsh glare and asked What are you saying? I’m not sure why it bothers you so much. I’m fine. They’re just monitoring me. I just had surgery. Remember? Luke had caught where Mark had said we. He also noticed how Mark seemed to already know exactly what had happened on Argwa.

Still acting angry Mark snapped back. No, we don’t remember. We haven’t been told anything on your condition. Whether you were alive or what. We didn’t know you were even alive until yesterday. When you two were brought back on board a week ago you were rushed here and that was it.

Well, I’m sorry. I didn’t know. Luke didn’t know exactly how to act toward Mark. He wasn’t sure what Mark was getting at. Was he trying to make him angry?" Luke thought to himself.

Mark continued his rant. "Are you even going to be able to run this ship again after what you’ve been through? I mean when something happens to someone like what happened to you, they are never the same and usually don’t come back from it.

Now Luke was getting angry. He could feel his blood begin to boil. Well, I’m not like everyone else. You know me. I always come back. It’s what I do. I’m fine. Just got a busted knee. Luke paused and took a breath to try to calm down but could feel himself getting angrier. Then he spoke louder and more forcefully. And what do you know about what happened to me because I would love... His breath was sucked out of him by a sharp sudden spasm in his abdomen. It scared him. He had to force himself to calm down before he could finish his sentence. because I would love to know what you know. Luke barely got the words out when another spasm hit. Just as it hit and he made a cringing face Dr. Ramos rushed in. He could see the tension between the two men.

Ok that is enough in here. Mark you can leave now and come back tomorrow. Luke shouldn’t be getting upset.

Before Mark left, he turned back to and said to Luke. See you can’t even get angry. I thought you just hurt you knee. If a knee injury causes this how are supposed to Captain a ship? then continued to leave the med bay.

Luke jerked his covers off, his leads out, and started for Mark but another spasm hit. Holy crap Doc what is this? Luke managed to ask through clenched teeth.

The baby doesn’t like the tension. Dr. Ramos said completely serious. He then looked at Luke with worried expression, Luke, watch out for him. He wants this ship. I thought you two were close?

I did too. But something has changed. He was different right before we left. It seems like he’s the same and now he’s trying to goad me into losing control and seeming out of control. Another spasm hit. Ok I’m calm now you can quit Luke said to the baby. Then Luke looked at Dr. Ramos. What did he do while I was gone?

Well mostly he was off supposedly searching for you and Kalani. That’s enough about Mark for now. It’s good you are talking to the baby. Don’t let the spasm worry you too much. I’s common in Sirenians. The Serinian fetuses are very controlling of their parent. If they are hungry you are very hungry and if they don’t like something, well as you just experienced, they let you know about it.

Whew, I hope I don’t do that too often. You aren’t lying about the hunger part either. I’m starving. His stomach was growling and he needed to think for something to get his mind off food. So, he asked Dr. Ramos. How is Kalani?"

Dr. Ramos hesitated but smiled. She is doing very well. I believe she’s coming to see you tomorrow. Dr. Weeks is with her now.

An uneasy feeling hit Luke’s stomach. Something about that guy weirds me out. I know he’s helping but something feels off. I think we should keep an extra eye on him. Luke said, It would probably be better if he stayed on the ship until after the baby is born.

Dr. Ramos gave Luke a strong look but he also knew had Luke really good instincts on people and that he hadn’t seen his friend in a long time. Things could have changed. He just said back to Luke. That can be arranged.

The next day Luke had already spent the morning filling out opt rosters, listening to more complaints, and going over the stats from the last couple months. The crew had made plans to help a small civilization on a planet called Roche that had been overtaken by a small Concord unit. They had agreed to help in hopes to capture the unit and get some information on the Concords next move.

When Kalani walked in she saw the papers all over Luke’s bed and the concentration on his face.

So, I thought you were resting? Kalani asked with a grin.

Surprised by Kalani being there, not having heard her come in. Luke dropped his pencil and cleared a place on the bed for her to sit. I am resting. I haven’t even tried to stand on my own. It’s been hard, but I’ve been good.

Taken back by Luke’s good mood Kalani almost got up left but she stopped herself. She had to tell Luke something, she just hated spoiling his good mood. She took a deep breath. Luke, I have to tell you something. Please don’t be mad or discouraged.

She now had tears in her eyes but her voice never faltered. I was pregnant when we were captured. It happened the night we first arrived there. Kalani said staring at Luke waiting for reaction on her news.

Luke smiled at the memory of that night.

Kalani gave him a confused look and continued. Luke, I lost it. I lost the baby. She leaned over and hugged him. "I’m sorry please don’t hate me we can try again sometime. The words stuck in her throat after she said them wondering why she would tell him that if she didn’t mean it.

Still smiling Luke pushed her off of him and held her hand. First of all… Why does everyone act like I’m emotionally fragile and going to lose it? And second… You didn’t lose the baby. Luke stopped trying to think of the least awkward way of telling her.

Getting angry Kalani snarled. Luke this isn’t a joke. I did lose the baby. How can you be so casual about it?

No, you didn’t. I’ve got the baby. I’m pregnant now. They transferred the fetus to me so that both you and it could be saved. Luke said wondering to himself why she was acting so weird about it. He would understand if she was upset but why angry?

Shocked by what Luke had just said she wiped the tears from her eyes and kissed him smiling. She looked him up and down. Where is it?

Luke pointed to his abdomen. Right here behind my naval. They were able to do it because I’m part Strada and was born with the ability to carry a child like a Strada man can do sometimes. I just never knew I had or would use that particular ability.

Kalani was still absorbing the news and very surprised by Luke’s good mood about the whole thing. Wow. Can you feel it yet?

Luke gave the med bay a guarded look over not wanting anyone to overhear their conversation. Not really. I noticed I’m protective of that area though. My hand just keeps going there as if to cover it. Unless I make her angry, other than that I haven’t felt any movement yet.

Make ‘her’ angry? Kalani asked

Oh yeah. She doesn’t like me to get angry. I found this out because yesterday me and Mark got into it and she actually took the breath from me and she gave me sharp, sudden spasms. Dr. Ramos had to actually make him leave. Luke said noticing how Kalani almost looked board with the conversation. The only part that seemed to perk her attention was the part where he said he got into with Mark.

How do you know it’s a girl? Kalani asked she knew if she didn’t Luke would think something was wrong, but what she really wanted to know was what Luke and Mark had gotten into it about. Mark wasn’t supposed to start anything with Luke now that he was back on the ship.

Oh, I don’t. I just don’t like calling it, it, so I decided to call it a girl until we know for sure. Luke said deliberately not saying why him and Mark had gotten into it.

Kalani smiled. that’s a great idea. She leaned over and touched his stomach with her finger. Hello there little one. The longer she touched his abdomen with her finger the stronger the chemical connection got between them. She knew if she sat there much longer this would go somewhere it couldn’t at this time and there wouldn’t be a thing either of them could do about it. So, she got up and kissed Luke quickly on the forehead. Well, I guess I will go back to the quarters. Doctors’ orders you know.

Knowing why she was leaving Luke nodded and smiled. Once she was gone, he took a breath of relief. Since he had learned how much their chemical connection controlled them, he hated it. A few moments later Luke sat real still for a few moments to see if he felt any movement from the baby. He didn’t, decided it was a woman thing, and shrugged it off.

He had the same routine for the next few days. Working from his bed. Talking to people with their concerns or complaints. Most of which were about Mark and wanting to know when he would be back. There was one concern, Rack, his communications officer and long-time best friend had told Luke about. He said that there was light on the communication panel that was staying on even when they shut the panel down.

Luke, I came to you because I know you know the Sparrow ships better than any of us. That stupid light has been on since you got back on board and is getting on my nerves. Rack said looking Luke over head to toe.

I would have to see it to figure out what it is. Luke said. Then he noticed Rack looking at him. What is it? he asked Rack.

I’m sorry. I just have never seen you like this, this long. Are you sure you’re ok? Rack asked.

Luke smiled. I’m fine. I was just trying to listen to the doc for once. The rest will help me heal faster too. You know that. I’m hoping I will be out of the bed in the next day or so.

Rack smiled and left.

Even after Rack had left Luke still wondered about the light. It bothered him so much so that it was all he could do to keep from getting up and checking it out. For some reason it just kept bothering Luke. He barely got any sleep. The next day he got Quince to run schematics and scans of the whole ship. When Dr. Ramos came in later that day while Luke was going over them.

Well, I see you have stayed busy. If you’ll take a moment for me to give you a quick look over, I’ll see about getting you up out of that bed. Dr. Ramos said smiling.

Luke quickly sat down what he had in his hand and gave his full attention to the doctor. It’s about time. he said as he swung his good leg off the side of the bed.

After checking him over Dr. Ramos left the room for a moment and returned with a pair of crutches. Do you think you are strong enough for these or do I need to go get the walker? The doctor asked already knowing the answer.

Luke quickly answered, The crutches. I’ve been exercising. He took the crutches and got up. He was a little unsteady but able to support himself. It feels so good to be up. I was about to go stir crazy.

Dr. Ramos knew Luke had been on bed rest for a while, but to him Luke actually looked stronger now than he had before he had been captured. How in the world? He wondered to himself. As he walked out of the room. He met Kalani in the med bay. Hey Kalani. Tell me. How is Luke in better shape now than he was before you two were captured?

Kalani gave him a serious look and just said. That is what happens when you are forced to fight monsters twice your size every day for almost two months. Then she walked into the room with Luke.

Kalani had missed having Luke by her side the last few days. It was odd because he was always there. Even before they were friends when she had first come on the ship, he had always been there to back her up. She felt like she used to would have, before Luke had found his feelings for her weren’t as strong as hers toward him.

Luke was standing shirtless practicing with the crutches. Kalani walked straight over to him and ran her finger up his ripped abs. She gave a flirty grin, cocked her head, and said, You sure are looking good Mr. Stokes.

Luke was surprised by her forwardness but combined with her touch it turned him on. He reached out and brushed her hair back off face and tucked it behind her ear. He leaned in and started to kiss her but stopped himself and instead whispered in her ear. Well at least something good came out of our ordeal. He leaned back up. How can I help you today.

I don’t need anything. I just wanted to spend some time with you. I know we aren’t together like that but we are having a child together. Kalani said and hugged Luke. I mean can’t we just act like we did before we were together, together? You know friends that satisfy?

Luke hadn’t really thought about it. He didn’t really see a problem with it. That’s the way they used to be before it got all complicated. He hugged her back. Umm. Can we?

Kalani was so happy Luke had agreed. She looked back over her shoulder and yelled across the med bay to Dr. Ramos. Hey Doc, how long until me and Luke can be together?

Knowing what she meant but wanting to add a little humor Dr. Ramos said. Y’all are together now. They both gave a hard look. Dr. Ramos smiled and gave a chuckle. I know what you mean. It will still be a few more days.

Luke was a little disappointed. Darn knee.

Oh no Luke, not you. You are perfectly capable right now. Kalani however needs a little while longer to build up more strength. I know how you two are and since it’s been a while it will be even worse. So, when you two do get together it will be a whammy and will require a lot of strength. Dr. Ramos said just shaking his head as he walked off.

Kalani ducked her head. Sorry Luke. The she looked at him from head to toe. I think I will bring you some clothes. I know now that you are on your feet you will want to go to the bridge.

Please. I would love to not look like a sick person anymore. Luke said. He knew if he went to the bridge Kalani would soon be there too. She smiled and started to walk away but Luke grabbed her arm and stopped her. Luke spoke low enough no one outside the room could hear him. I know you know I remember what happened while we were held prisoner. If you could just keep it between you and me, I would really appreciate it.

Seeing the urgency on his face Kalani quickly agreed. Sure of course. I’m all about secrets. Not to sound stupid, but why? You’re fine.

I know. Oddly enough I’ve actually made peace with it. I think overall it has given me more control. But everyone on this ship already thinks I’m half-crazy and treat me like loose cannon. If they find out what happened down there, and then that I remember it all. They will be afraid to look at or speak to me. It’s already hard enough to get them to tell me anything that isn’t good news. Luke said. He couldn’t figure out where the sharing of feelings had just come from but it made him feel better.

Ok I won’t tell. Kalani said. She left and didn’t come back with his clothes for another hour. Sorry Luke. I got held up. Dr. Weeks wanted to check me out really quick. Then Mark stopped me wanting to know how you were. I didn’t tell him you were getting ready to come up there.

Thanks. Luke said then he added. I prefer to go up there alone. At least just for the first few minutes.

Ok. I need to go train anyway. Kalani said and left again.

Chapter 3

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W hen Luke finally got up to the bridge a couple hours later the crew just stopped and looked at him. To break the awkward silence, he smiled and said. What does no one recognize me not in my pajamas? I can go put some on.

The crew paused a moment before breaking into laughter.

Rack stood up and said. Captain, I’m glad you’re back. We weren’t expecting you this soon. Mark said you had some things to work through.

Yeah well I must have worked through them because here I am. I need two things…. The first is a stool. The second is for Quince here to give me todays updates.

Mary brought a stool quickly over and Luke sat on it not realizing how weak he was.

Quince not expecting to do an update was caught off guard. Um I don’t have one ready. I know we are planning on checking out an abandoned cargo ship that showed on up the scanners yesterday. I believe it’s dead in space. Mark is very interested in it though.

Completely in Captain mode now Luke grabbed a comm. headset sitting on top of the instrument panel next to him and put it on. Ok. What kind of ship is it and can we tell what happened to it? Has Mark planned to send a crew to check it out?

Quince stepping right in with him answered. We think it’s an old Cargo ship from the Earth galaxy. He said we would be sending Riley, Mac, and Patton.

Luke turned to Quince. Who is Mac and Patton?

Once again caught off guard by Luke Quince stuttered "Umm w we were told they were some recruits you signed on the last stop we made before you were captured.

And who were you told this by? I don’t sign on recruits. Luke said

Hesitantly Quince answered beginning to sweat. Umm Mark.

Trying not to let it make him angry Luke took a deep breath. Ok but I would like to send Tara too. I would at least like the numbers to be even until I know I if I can trust them.

Quince, now calming down. Will do. He said and turned to his panel and called Tara to the bridge.

Mark heard the comm call for Tara and knew something was up. He raced to the bridge and was stunned to see Luke sitting there.

As Mark walked in Luke looked up at him. Well, welcome to the party. Luke said with a grin hoping Marks mood would be better than when they had argued.

Mark was followed in by Tara. Hey what’s up? she asked.

Luke looked at her. "Go join Riley, Mac, and Patton. They are getting ready to board the dead ship.

Sure thing. Tara said giving Mark a cautious look and turned to leave.

Before she was able to though Mark shouted Hold it! You aren’t going with them. Then Mark turned to Luke and snarled, What do you think you are doing? This is not your opp to say who and who doesn’t go. Have you been released for duty yet? Did you get your psychiatric sign off?

Usually this would have been where Luke would’ve blown his top and went off. But remembering the spasms from last time Mark got to him he tried to stay as calm as possible. He stood up, took the comm. headset off laying down, and said. Fine, but when I get back, and it won’t be very long, you and I are going to have a long talk about this. Luke got his crutches and left the bridge.

Rack jumped up and followed him. The rest of the crew just sat in place stunned. First by what Mark had just said to Luke and second that Luke hadn’t pulverized him for saying it.

I thought you said he was unstable? Mary asked Mark

Rack caught Luke in the hall. Luke, stop.

Luke stopped and looked at Rack.

Hey man. Are you ok? I’ve never seen you take that off someone like that. Rack said.

Luke started to tell him about his condition but right as he was about to talk Kalani walked up. I need to calm down. I’ll talk to you later. Luke nodded to Kalani and walked off.

Kalani turned to Rack and asked him what the matter was. He told her what Mark had done. Kalani just listened. To Racks surprise Kalani didn’t go after Luke, instead she went to the bridge where Mark was.

Luke went straight to Dr. Ramos to settle the medical and psychiatric release Mark had talked about. You released me to go back to duty, right?

Confused Dr. Ramos nodded and said. Yes, Why?

Luke took a deep breath, Mark told me I have to have a medical and psychiatric release to Captain my own ship. This is my ship. Why does Mark need this stuff to give me back my command? It’s an old rule anyway when we were still in good graces with the Concord.

Luke had come in so fast and jumped in it took Dr. Ramos a moment to wrap his head around what Luke was saying. Umm I could have left that part out. I was hoping this could be avoided. Mark signed some kind of pardon agreement with the Concord. He has had us doing some work for them. At first, he said was to gain access to the planet you and Kalani were on. You had been missing for over a month. We figured it was our only chance to get you two back. The crew did a couple small jobs and thought it was done. Then Mark docked Tayana on Pacos and left with a small group of Concord soldiers. A couple weeks later the soldiers came back with you and Kalani. Then Mark didn’t come back for two days. He never spoke of what happened. When Mark boarded and found out you both were on board and alive, he seemed really surprised. Dr. Ramos said hoping Luke would not be too angry.

So where are the Concord soldiers now? I haven’t seen them anywhere on board yet? Luke said trying to stay calm but he could feel the anger beginning to boil inside him. For some reason his gut was telling him that it all seemed to be linked. He knew Dr. Ramos wouldn’t know as much as bridge crew because he was here in the med bay.

Their ship is in shuttle bay three. I didn’t even know they were on the ship until this morning. I was getting some medical supplies we keep in the extra shuttle bay when I saw Mark come out of the shuttle bay. I ducked behind the corner because he looked like he was making sure no one saw him. I was told that that shuttle bay was out of commission. An explosion from something blew out the sensors to the shuttle bay so Quince and Mac roped it off. Dr. Ramos said looking around to make sure no one was listening to them.

Does the crew know they are there? I don’t see Rack, Mary and Gage going along with this at all. At least I know now what the open comm. light means now. Luke paused as he ran it all back through his head putting the pieces together. I made Mark second in command because we trained together and fought together. I’ve known him longer than everyone on this ship other than Rack. The Concord had betrayed us both. I thought I could trust him. Luke thought back. Him and Mark had been together all through training and service. The only time they were apart was when the Concord set up to have Luke killed. But it was less than a year when he had found Mark in the same position. They had been fugitives together and had saved each other lives numerous times. He couldn’t figure out what he had done to have Mark betray him like this and go back with the Concord. I’m going to the bridge.

Luke. Dr. Ramos grabbed Luke’s arm. Don’t go up there and lose your head and get all upset and wind up doubled over from another spasm. And don’t forget this. Dr. Ramos handed his physical release paper.

Oh, I’m not tipping my hat yet. I just need to get Mary to sign my psychiatric release form. She is a licensed psychiatrist remember? He smiled at Dr. Ramos. Surprising himself at how calm he was. He was angry but not uncontrolled like he had been known to get. He felt like what he had been through the last couple months had forced him to release all his built-up anger and now he could handle it better. Or maybe it was the pregnancy. That thought made him feel weird though.

On his way back to the bridge he went by the gym in the recreation room where he knew Kalani would be training. He hobbled in on his crutches surprising her.

Seeing Luke walk in with the serious expression on his face she was used to was disappointing to her. I knew you couldn’t stay in that good mood for too long.

Aggravated by her harsh remark he returned with his own. For good reason. I know you heard that Mark kicked me off my own bridge saying I needed a medical release signed by a doctor both physical and mental. Which is a Concord rule not my rule. So, I go to Dr. Ramos to ask about it and he informs me that Mark has signed some Concord pardon agreement and has us working for the Concord.

Kalani kept punching the punching bag. Yeah I may have heard a few things about it from Dr. Weeks. Apparently, he isn’t in such good graces with the Concord and said he wouldn’t have helped us if he had known we were working for them. I told him you don’t work for the Concord.

Luke was stunned. Why didn’t you tell me?

She stopped and looked at him. Don’t be angry I did it for you. You’ve actually seemed happy since we got back. You haven’t been worried about fighting this or stopping that. You’ve just been happy. I didn’t want to spoil that. You haven’t had many chances to be happy lately and I couldn’t take this chance away from you. You’ve actually been excited about the baby, getting back to work, even about having fried chicken for supper. I’ve never seen you excited about anything before. I like that part of you too. Kalani said a with tears beginning to well u in her eyes.

Luke walked up to her and hugged her. He knew she had never seen him excited. He didn’t allow himself to get excited about much anymore. He assumed it was the pregnancy that caused him to get so easily excited lately. Or maybe it was what Kalani said. Maybe he was actually happy. I’m sorry. You know I hate the Concord and the thought of them on my ship just. Well, it puts me in a bad mood. But don’t worry I’m still excited about the baby. I still think that fried chicken was amazing. Luke smiled and wiped the tear that began to fall down her cheek.

Kalani smiled. You are still happy. You just said amazing. They both laughed.

Luke took her hand in his, Come to the bridge with me. I have to get Mary to sign some papers. Luke holding Kalani’s hand gave them both an urge that neither of them could hardly resist. Luke quickly released Kalani’s hand.

Chapter 4

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W hen they got to the bridge Luke knocked and said Captain and Mission Planner requesting entry. They waited a moment and the door finally opened. Luke mumbled to Kalani. Yet another Concord thing.

Mark stood at the door and stopped them from entering.

If you don’t have your release forms, I can’t allow you to enter the bridge. Mark said smugly pushing Luke back.

It took everything Luke had to keep from pounding Mark. Instead, he took a deep breath. Kalani squeezed his arm. Actually, I just need to see Mary for a moment. I am still allowed to see my crew. Correct? Luke said casually hoping Mark wouldn’t notice he had struck a nerve. He made sure to emphasize that was his crew.

Mark gave him a confused glare and thought a moment. Fine.

Luke started to step forward toward Mary but Mark pushed him back again and called over his shoulder. Mary, Luke requests your presents for a moment.

Mary looked at the rest of the crew not liking being put in the middle. She suspected what Luke wanted and hoped he wouldn’t make her sign in front of Mark. Then she realized once she signed Luke would be back and she wouldn’t have to worry about Mark. She stepped out the bridge door to where Luke and Kalani were.

Luke saw the worried look on Mary’s face. He looked at Mark. Alone please for a moment.

Mark sneered. You got five then I need my pilot back.

Luke let the remark roll off his shoulders and smiled at Mary.

Let me guess. You need me to sign your release form. Mary said smiling. Good thing I renewed my license again. Mary took the papers and signed them. She started to hand them back to Luke but paused. Let me sit down before you give Mark the papers. She gave flirty grin just to aggravate Kalani and gave Luke the papers.

Luke smiled back at her. You know I love you right? Luke said taking the papers back. He could see Kalani fuming out of the corner of his eye. He knocked on the door. Mark answered. You can have my pilot back now.

Mary quickly went in and sat down.

She’s not your pilot until you get your release forms signed. Mark said once again pushing Luke back from the door. He started to turn and go back into the bridge but Luke grabbed his arm and stopped him.

Well, these two signed release forms say she is my pilot. Luke said shoving the papers into Marks hand and walked past him onto the bridge.

Mark read the papers and turned to Mary. He was boiling mad and asked her. Are you licensed through the Concord. If not, these mean nothing.

Hearing the word Concord come from Marks mouth like it was some supreme power made Luke so angry he swore he could feel steam coming out of his ears. Then a spasm hit. It was all he could do to keep from doubling over. He squeezed Kalani’s hand and gritted his teeth. He hoped no one noticed.

Mary couldn’t stay out of it. She had had enough of Mark and the Concord. Yes. I’m licensed through the Concord. Do you want my authorization code?

Mark was furious. He slammed the papers into Luke’s chest. Fine, Luke you have fun playing ship but you will be sorry for this. Those pardon papers I signed said nothing about you. Mark left the bridge and slammed the door behind him.

Mark slamming the papers into Luke had almost put him down. The spasm was still strong Luke had to talk through gritted teeth. Quince, quickly pull up any cameras that have a view of the shuttle bay that had the explosion. Quince started to ask why but Luke stopped him. I’ll explain in a minute. On one of the screens, they saw Mark enter the bay. Luke took a deep breath and ducked his head. Y’all got to trust me on this. Luke looked at the crew. Quince, seal the doors and open the outside doors. Blast the bay clean. He saw the stunned look on the crews faces. Don’t worry he is on a stow away Concord ship that was in the bay. Luke pushed a button on Quinces screen and it showed the ship get ejected from their ship and blast away.

The crew looked stunned and ashamed. I can’t believe we didn’t notice that. Rack said.

Now get us out of here fast. I don’t want them following us. Luke said. The spasm had started to ease and he was able to breath normally again. As soon as the spasm pain eased a little more, he realized he had his weight on his knee and felt the sharp pain shoot up his leg. He quickly took his weight off the knee and sat on a nearby stool. He sat and thought about the shuttle bay. Suddenly he became very nauseated and dizzy.

So, Captain what’s our next move? Rack asked

I doubt he has that yet. He just got here like two minutes ago. Mary said.

Luke swallowed hard and took a deep breath. I think we should head out to district twelve. There are some villages on the planet Roshak that was looking for a supply ship to carry supplies back and forth between neighboring planets they are trying to reestablish. He wiped the sweat that had begun to run down his forehead. The nausea was getting worse.

Rack smiled shook his head in disbelief. And here he is, our Captain, Luke Stokes. No matter what comes in our way whether it’s a fight or him on his back in the med bay for a couple weeks he always has the next play without a flinch. Glad you’re back Captain. Rack said and the rest of the crew agreed.

Luke smiled and nodded but dared not try to talk for the fear of being sick.

Kalani saw the sick look on Luke’s face and knew she had to think of a reason to get him off the bridge quickly. But before she was able Luke quickly grabbed his crutches and headed toward the door.

I gotta hit the head. He barely made it off the bridge. Just as the door closed, he lost his breakfast and lunch in a trash can next to the door. Crap. He mumbled to himself. He pushed the button to clean the can and started to go back onto the bridge but his curiosity to make sure the shuttle bay was cleared got the better of him. Feeling better since getting sick he decided to go give it a look.

On his way Gage caught up to him. Mind if I talk to you a moment Captain? Gage asked.

I’m headed toward the shuttle bay. Walk with me. Luke said.

I told Mark I had seen lights in the shuttle bay after the explosion. He told me I was paranoid and crazy. Guess I’m not as crazy as he said I was. Gage said.

Guess you won’t get to rub it in since we just blew him and the ship out of the bay. Luke said.

Are you sure he got on the shuttle? I saw him down there yesterday and all he did was step in and step back out. That’s when I told him I had seen the lights. Gage said. Mark just told me he didn’t see anything.

Couldn’t you see inside the bay if you standing at it? It’s just windows? Luke asked concerned and confused.

The windows are black from the explosion that blew out the sensors. Gage said.

Luke got a sick feeling in his stomach. Once they had reached the level on the elevator. Luke went as fast as he could on the crutches to the shuttle bay. How come we didn’t see anything on the cameras?

The cameras and sensors in that whole area haven’t really worked right since the explosion. The cameras freeze and sensors randomly turn off. We’ve been losing minutes of data. As they came up on the shuttle bay Gage asked. If you want, I’ll go in and make sure it’s all clear and let you know?

Realizing his inability to move quickly on the crutches Luke agreed. Gage went in and began looking around. He gave Luke