Chapter 26

It was shortly after noon when a shuttle, appearing as an executive jet, lifted off from the Grand View airport. On board were reporters and cameramen from seven networks and five major North American newspapers, along with quite a few reporters and cameramen from other countries.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” said Melinda, standing at the front of the cabin, “we will be arriving at Comrie in approximately 1 hour. There are about 50 people willing to talk with you about their experiences, as long as you abide by the ground rules. Out of those 50, six women will tell their full stories. The group believes that those six stories are representative of those that were rescued.”

“How many were rescued?” asked a female TV reporter.

“2376 women and men, so far. There may be a few more arriving in the next day or so. We also have other guests on the island, so not everyone there was involved in this rescue.”

“I didn’t realize there were men among those rescued.”

“Yes. There were a few. In most cases they were used strictly as beasts of burden.”

“That is an unusual way to word it.”

“I guess it is pretty blunt, but it is simply the truth. Many Westerners have a difficult time with the concept of human slavery or humans being used like domestic animals. In some areas of Earth women and children, like common farm animals, are considered property to be bought and sold as the needs of the family change. In many of those areas a person can quickly fall into the slave category, a category that is virtually impossible to escape and live. Wives and their children are valued as long as they strengthen the family, but are still treated as property.”

“Many of our readers have difficulty believing that there is still slavery on Earth.”

“Unfortunately, it is true. It is not as common as it was 200 years ago, but it still exists, although it is not as visible. Throughout Earth’s history, all ethnic groups have experienced the yoke of slavery at one time or another.”

“Will there be a tour of the island?”

“Yes, but we prefer you do it as a group. The staff on the island are very busy caring for our guests, and that is our primary concern.”

“Aren’t we your guests?”

“Of course, though I am not sure you need the benefit of our medical facilities.” Everyone laughed. “However, if you are considering seeking employment with us then you need to meet with our Staffing department. I know we have many opportunities that you might consider.”

“You’re quick,” replied the reporter. “I have heard that the Órarduine are very selective about who is permitted to receive the conversion treatment.”

“Well I don’t know your source of information. I definitely don’t agree with the way you used ‘selective’, but I guess it could appear that way. But let me clarify something, not everyone working with us is an Órarduine. We have quite a few of what you would consider to be contract workers, and they will return to Earth at some point. However, many who have come to work with us eventually decided to join us, and in doing so became an Órarduine. We go to great lengths not to encourage anyone to make that step. Why? Because the species change is not reversible. It would not be to anyone’s benefit to have someone in a closed environment like a spaceship for a long voyage who is unhappy due to making that choice.” The reporter nodded her agreement.

Melinda then went over the Órarduine’s social characteristics, which led to a number of other questions. Several asked about physical differences. She shocked them by simply slipping off her jacket and skirt, before doing a slow turn as she pointed out the differences. When she was done, she slipped them back on.

“If you are so comfortable being naked, why did you put your jacket and skirt back on?” asked a female reporter with a smirk.

“Simply to make it easier for your cameramen. If it makes you more comfortable then I will gladly take them off, as I am much more comfortable naked. It also happens to be less personally arousing, as our skin is quite sensitive to light caresses. I’ll leave it to you to deal with the photographers and cameramen.”

One of the photographers said, “Thank you Melinda. Wearing a jacket and skirt makes our life so much easier, as it is considerably easier to frame a photo that will be publishable. You are a very beautiful woman either way, and I would consider it a privilege to have the opportunity to do a photo session with you.” Several others on the plane voiced their agreement with his comment.

“Thank you,” replied Melinda. “As to a photo spread, there are others who would look much better than me.”

“We are approaching Comrie,” said Alpha10’s AI. “We will circle the island twice in both directions. This will give those on either side of the cabin a chance to see the island. For those looking away from the island, you should be able to see a US Navy’s Carrier Strike Group near the horizon. Our approach and landing can be seen on the cabin monitor.”

After circling the island, it turned for its approach.

“Alpha10,” said Dóchas FOC.

“Dóchas, Alpha10, copy.”

“When you reach 50 meters, cloak then turn to a heading of 254 for 5 km.”

Darcy then repeated the instructions and added, “Correct?”

“Affirmative. At 5 km, you can turn to 344 and climb to 100 meters.”

“Copy.”

A few moments later, Alpha10 said, “Dóchas, Alpha10, cloaking initiated. Beginning turn.”

“Confirmed,” replied Dóchas FOC.

Alpha10 AI said, “Turning to 344 and climbing to 100 meters.”

“Affirmative. Cleared to 700 meters.”

“Copy, cleared to 700 meters.”

“Affirmative. Will advise when clear to reenter approach.”

When the shuttle initially turned, a passenger exclaimed, “We’re turning away. What’s going on Melinda?”

“We will find out in a moment.”

Just as Melinda spoke, those looking out the right side windows saw a large executive jet apparently descending toward the island. Shortly after they completed the third turn of their go around, those looking out the same side saw the plane hit the water a considerable distance beyond the island. The landing gear hitting the water caused the plane’s nose to drop. As the aircraft began to disintegrate there was a brilliant flash, followed by a geyser rising several hundred meters into the air. The shock wave caused the shuttle to shudder.

“Holy cow,” exclaimed a reporter, “I’ve never seen anything like that. How come it went past the island? Wait a minute I didn’t see a runway on the island.”

Melinda replied with a smile, “I guess they became disorientated on their descent. There isn’t a runway, since our aircraft do not really need one.”

“But...”

“When our shuttles appear to be a jet plane, then our performance matches our appearance. As to the flash, that was the C4 the plane was carrying.”

“You knew it was there?”

“Not until after our first turn away from the approach. Dóchas FOC told me that it began stalking us when we were about half way here.”

“If we had landed it would have exploded right over us,” said a reporter, with a very ashen look.

“Nope. Not a chance,” replied Sam. “It was being followed by a flight of our Star Fighters.”

“Why didn’t it hit the island?”

“Let’s just say that if it hadn’t overflown the island our Star Fighters would have taken it out in such a way that wouldn’t have done any damage to Comrie.”

As they were talking Alpha10 had turned back onto the final approach to Comrie. When the shuttle began to slow, a reporter said in a shrill voice, “There isn’t any runway. We’re going to crash.”

“We don’t really need one,” replied Melinda with a smile as she wondered if some of them really listened.

When the door opened, Samantha’s and Marge’s Clans wearing Salwar Kameez outfits were waiting to greet them. After introductions, Sam and Melinda led the group to a conference room. In doing so they took the long way around and periodically pointed out features of the island. Sam smiled listening to the questions her spouses were answering.

In the conference room, Sam introduced the six women who would talk about their experiences for the reporters. Chantel projected a 3-D image of the island so Sam could point out various aspects of it, and their settlement. During this she emphasized how difficult access was from the ocean, and skipped over the narrow gap where the river drained into the ocean. Melinda then gave a summary of the rescue, including information on the transfer points and the drug dealer’s involvement. She noted that many brothels who had purchased the women’s contracts had released them when they learnt about the circumstances of how the women were obtained. One reporter expressed surprise that the brothel operators responded that way. Melinda pointed out that these were brothels that valued their reputations. Their locations looked like any other business where a high traffic was typical. They knew the value of talented employees, and took precautions to make sure they were taken care of.

When the questions died down, Kelsey invited everyone outside for the interviews. She led them to a small courtyard which easily accommodated everyone. The six women who would tell their story sat in front of a low garden wall with a view of the valley in the background, while the others that were rescued sat off to each side, far enough away to not be in any photos. This way they were close enough to participate if they chose to.

With Karmen moderating, the six told as much of their abduction that they could remember. This included their experiences in the hands of the criminals, with sufficient detail to get across the barbarity of their experiences. Those that had been working in clubs or brothels included their experiences. After they had told their stories, Kelsey opened the floor to questions and assisted Karmen. In their role as moderators, they made sure that each reporter had an opportunity to ask questions. Both were pleased when the questions eased off toward the end of the allotted time. Karmen said, “It looks like we have run out of questions. Is there anyone who would like to make a comment?” Kelsey and Karmen were a bit uncertain when they saw several rescued women stand. Karmen pointed to the closest woman and nodded.

“I don’t know how many others agree with me, but out of all this tragedy there is a bright spot. That is the fairness and sympathy all of you have shown us during this interview. Thank you!” All of those rescued rose and applauded. When it died down, she added softly, “May the Gods and Goddesses be with you always.”

It was quiet for a few moments before Karmen said, “I believe there were some other questions.”

Another woman stood, saying, “I was going to make a similar comment, but that young woman beat me to it. She also did it much better than I would have. Thanks.”

“Any others?”

“Okay, it is tour time. Before we do that, photographers, do you have any special needs here.”

“No, I’m fine,” replied one photographer. “Whoever set this up did a fine job. Thanks.” The other photographers all gave their thumbs up.

“Before we leave, may I have a word?” asked a TV reporter. Karmen nodded to her. “I think I speak on behalf of many of us. Thank you very much for your compliment. It means a great deal to all of us. I have been extremely impressed by the character and strength shown by all of you. Yes, all of you! You faced a situation and future that free people cannot begin to imagine. You survived. Do yourself a favor and focus on the future you now have, as there is absolutely nothing that can be done about the past. We know the Órarduine have offered assistance in sorting out that future. If you think I can be of assistance, please contact me. I would consider it an honor.”

As soon as she finished speaking, many of the reporters and photographers said, “We agree, and that goes for us, too.”

One of those rescued quickly stood up with a gleam in her eye, and said, “Excuse me, does the offer include helping me start an escort service?” The woman had a big smile as she sat back down.

Several gasped at hearing the question. A TV reporter responded with, “If that’s really what you want to do, I will do what I can to help. However, I haven’t had any experience with escort services.”

“Thanks.”

“You’re serious?” asked the TV reporter, with an amazed look on her face.

“It is an option. I do enjoy sexual encounters, and my recent experience has not turned me off of them, although I do prefer situations of mutual consent. Asking for assistance was partly in jest, but you gave me an excellent response. Thanks.”

“When there is no more jesting, and everyone is ready, we will begin the tour,” said Kelsey. When the laughter subsided, she continued with, “There will be at least one person with each of you until we return to the shuttle.” She saw a couple of looks that bordered on frowns. “This is only to help you get any additional information and photos you need.”

Melinda and Sam were pleased when they boarded Alpha10 for the return flight to Grand View. It had been a very strenuous 4 hours. The individual interviews went very well, although one TV reporter almost lost it when one of the women grinned at her, showing both her missing teeth and then her two missing fingers. They were quite pleased that the visiting reporters had adhered to the ground rules established at the beginning of the trip. Sam was surprised by how few questions were asked during the return.

They were on final approach to Grand View when a reporter said, “Are we here already?”

“Yes. Coming back, we didn’t pretend to be an executive jet,” replied Melinda.

“So you knew something would happen on the trip to the island?”

“Actually no. In controlled air space we prefer to simulate an executive jet, as it causes fewer problems with air traffic control. We took our time going because we wanted to complete your briefing before arriving. We will not knowingly put anyone in danger. As to this trip, I hope you found it worth the effort. It has been a pleasure to work with all of you.”

“Thank you for putting up with us,” said a reporter, causing everyone to laugh. “This is one of the few times I have felt like nothing was being hidden from view.”

“I meant what I said earlier. Melinda, feel free to give any of them my contact information.” The others in the cabin waved their hands holding business cards, indicating that the same was true for them.

“Is it possible for some of us to visit one of your spaceships?” asked another TV reporter.

“Let’s see how this is works out. I feel comfortable in offering a longer visit to Comrie in a week or so, after things settle down. At that time, you would likely have more freedom to roam around on your own. There would be a few restrictions on writing about some aspects of what you see, or identifying the people you talk to. As to visiting the ships or An Clochán, we will need to explore that idea with the rest of our family. I trust you realize that virtually everyone on the ships or at An Clochán is nude most of the time.”

“You want to see how the stories are written before making a commitment,” said a newspaper reporter.

“Not really. It is something we need to discuss with the Command Staffs before we can extend that kind of an invitation,” replied Sam.

“As to the nudity, those from the Grand View media managed it so I think we should be able to,” commented another reporter

Melinda and Sam watched as the reporters and cameramen gathered their stuff to leave. Each stopped and thanked Melinda and Sam again for their hospitality. On exiting the shuttle, they all literally ran to their waiting colleagues.

“Samantha,” said Melinda, “thanks for the quick response to the last comment. I had thought of other things to say, but your choice was much better.”

“Yea, I saw what you wanted to say. If you had, we would have lost all our brownie points.” They both laughed as Alpha10 began its departure from the airport.

On Dóchas, Sarah’s Clan opened their weekly conference link with Siobhan’s and Maureen’s Clans on Phoenix and Eagle respectively. “Top of the day to you,” said Tara addressing the other two Command Staffs with a strong Gaelic accent.

“And the top of the day to you too,” came the reply.

“What does everyone think about Samantha and Melinda’s proposal for our shakedown cruise celebration?”

“Well,” said Tiff of Siobhan’s Clan, “I think we should go for it. A group of reporters has visited Comrie twice now. Their stories have all been balanced, and the responses by those interviewed indicate that they were accurate, very accurate.”

“I agree with Tiff,” added Colleen of Maureen’s Clan. “We can bring them directly to An Clochán so that they arrive at the same time as those coming from Comrie. Our guests at Comrie know why they have to be with an Órarduine at An Clochán when they leave the sleeping, dining and recreational areas. We just need to be sure the visiting reporters also understand the reason.”

“Well, I would like to keep track of them while they are on An Clochán,” said Rusty. “Everyone will be there overnight, so there would be plenty of time for mischief.”

“Do you think something is going to happen?” asked Brandan of Maureen’s Clan.

“No. I think I am being cautious. I don’t want to see an incident occur that we could have avoided. Also, An Clochán is a high risk living area, but with the accommodations we have it is quite easy to not see those risks.”

“Why not a demonstration?” said Conan of Siobhan’s Clan.

“How would you do that?”

“One way would be to have one of our engineers fill a balloon half full of water while inside our complex. He would then put it in a clear sealed box. Two of our staff wearing tactical suits would carry it out through an airlock toward the dry dock area. They would set the box on a stand with a cord attached to the door’s release mechanism. Once it was all set up, the two staff members would move behind a nearby barrier. Whoever is doing the narration should note the temperature of the box and its surroundings before the cord is pulled to open the box. We would want a close-up of the box, so it could be showing on the monitors when the door opens.”

“So you think seeing a balloon bursting to create a white cloud of water vapor will get the point across.”

“Well, it should have a lot of visual impact. Actually, it will probably damage the box. The narrator could then point out that this is something we live with constantly. Living here is a risk, but the complex and ships are designed to minimize that risk. Our telepathic communication and knowing our emergency procedures enables us to manage these situations. It is telepathy that permits the rapid communication we need when responding to emergencies. This dependence on telepathic communication is why visitors need an escort when leaving the common areas.”

“I like the idea of the demo,” said Keira of Siobhan’s Clan. “It will help the residents from Comrie as well. We also liked your impromptu dialog.”

“Sally,” said Melissa of Siobhan’s Clan, “do you know if the medical detachments from the UK and US are coming?”