 
# The Violet Series Book One:

# A Water Nymph's Tale

# Ali Noel Vyain
Copyright © 2015 by Ali Noel Vyain

Published by Ali Noel Vyain at Smashwords

No part of this book can be reproduced or used without permission.

Elsewhere

eISBN: 9781937050832

alinoelvyain.wordpress.com

## Acknowledgments

I also took a picture in the Riverview world in the The Sims 3 and modified it in Gimp to make it look more like Mars. I then found a free castle picture and cut it down to fit in the picture better. The Sims 3 copyright © 2011 by Electronic Arts

## Contents

## Chapter 1 The Mine

## Chapter 2 Farm Life on Eris

## Chapter 3 The Conception

## Chapter 4 Is He a Werecat?

## Chapter 5 The Secret Birth

## Chapter 6 Growing Up

## Chapter 7 Childhood

## Chapter 8 Teenagers

## Chapter 9 The Quest

## Chapter 10 Flight

## Chapter 11 Vampire Interference

## Chapter 12 The Prisoner

## Chapter 13 Near Seduction

## Chapter 14 Into the Water

## Chapter 15 Water Nymphs

## Chapter 16 The Water Dragon Recognizes a Half Water Nymph

## Chapter 17 Dealing with Vampires

## Chapter 18 Freeing the Lost Ones

## Chapter 19 Were Creatures

## Chapter 20 Tabitha Returns

## Chapter 21 Steve & Ophelia

## Chapter 22 Uncle Clyde

## Chapter 23 Now What?

## Chapter 1 The Mine

There was always water in the mine. Frank pondered why this was. He scratched his head and then put his helmet back on. He sometimes thought he saw the water move in ways water didn't normally move. But, he figured it was just the booze ruining his head. It always went straight to his head as he slowly wasted his life away in the small town on the Martian colony.

He wasn't even sure why he kept working in the mine. His brother was willing to give him a job in an office in the next town. Sure, Frank thought, sure I'll be clean all the time instead of covered in filth and watching water swirl and move uphill.

Frank lifted his pickaxe and resumed chipping. He wondered when this monotonous life of his would change and perhaps either get better or get more interesting. Today, as many other days, he was alone in this part of the mine. He liked to be alone. The other miners bothered him and he wasn't quite sure why that was. Still he chipped away at the rock and hoped he wouldn't cause a cave in.

He was pretty busy. He felt numb and didn't seem to care anymore. He just kept raising the pickaxe and dropped it with a slow motion that was nearly hypnotic. Before long he had stopped thinking and just moved the pickaxe up and down and chipped the rock searching for more ore. He didn't notice the water moving towards him in droplets. Before long the droplets became puddles of water. Still Frank hadn't seen it. He was too busy feeling numb and chipping away for more ore that he didn't even see the water move upward in the middle of the cave. Not even on the walls— out in the open. Soon there were shapes forming.

Frank lowered the axe and then he wiped his brow. He sighed loudly, which echoed in the cave. He thought he heard some giggling. He furrowed his brows. He was alone in this part of the mine. He thought it must be the booze again. Then he thought he should perhaps stop drinking. He shook his head and was about to resume his chipping when he heard a female voice near him.

"Excuse me, sir, but what is your name?"

Frank dropped the pickaxe and turned towards the voice. To his astonishment, he saw several women in the cave with him. They were all curvy with blue skin and red hair. They each wore micro-mini skirts with very short sleeved short tops on. Their clothes were red. "What? I must be seeing and hearing things. It must be all the booze I had last night."

"Booze? What's that?" asked one of the women.

"Oh, booze is the stuff that I drink every day after I'm done workin' in the mine. The booze just goes to my head so fast that before I know it, I have to come back here in the morning and work some more."

The women giggled. "Well, we can assure you that it's not the booze that's making you see us. We are here in this cave with you and we've been here for awhile."

"What? I'm here alone in this part of the mine. I like to work alone."

"Oh, well, surely you can't work all the time, can you?"

"Well, no, I guess not. How did you ladies get in here anyway?"

"We just swirled our way in and came up to meet you."

"To meet me? What about the other workers?"

"Oh, I don't know about them, but Melanie was the one who wanted to meet you and find out your name, but she's a little shy."

"Oh, pleased to meet you ma'am. My name is Frank. I'm sorry, I'm so filthy, but I've been working in the mine all day and I won't be able to clean up until after I leave here."

"That's okay. Perhaps we can chat later."

"Sure." The horn blew. "That's my signal that my shift is over for the day. If you ladies will excuse me, I'll be going home now." He tipped his helmet to the ladies and picked up the axe. He carried it over his shoulder and out of the mine. The women melted down to the cave floor. All that was left of them were puddles of water. Soon the water moved in different directions. One streak followed Frank and soaked into his left pant leg. He then left the axe with the other tools just outside of the mine and collected his pay.

Later, he was in his hotel room. He didn't bother getting a place of his own because he wasn't sure whether he wanted to stay or move on to another place. Frank threw his dirty clothes on the floor and jumped into the shower. As he scrubbed the dirt and grime off of his body, the soaked pant leg moved a little. Not much, but enough that the water moved out of the fabric and onto the floor. Soon the water had gathered into a puddle first and then formed into Melanie. She could hear the water running in the shower and she smiled. She thought she'd wait until he came out of the bathroom to greet him.

It was some time before he did finally step out of the shower. He carefully dried himself off with a towel and then wrapped it around himself. He stepped out of the bathroom to see Melanie standing in the middle of the room as she had appeared earlier.

"Uhh..."

"Hi, Frank! Are you in a better state to spend some time with me?"

"Uhh, let me get dressed first." He walked over to the dresser and grabbed some clean pants, shirt, underwear and socks. He walked back into the bathroom. He closed the door and took off the towel. Then he quickly got dressed. Afterwards, he looked into the mirror. His face was rather pallid and he thought he wanted a drink, but wasn't sure. He grabbed a comb and combed his hair. He sighed and then turned to open the door. Out he walked back into the bedroom where she was still waiting for him.

"Well, howdy. You're Melanie, right?"

"Yes."

"Oh. How did you get into my room?"

"Oh, that was easy, I just soaked into your pant leg and you took me here."

His eyes grew wide. "My pant leg? Well, I don't understand." He dropped down to the bed. "I must be losing my mind. Women don't appear out of nowhere and attach themselves to men's pant legs. That just doesn't make any sense." He fell to his back on the bed and remained motionless. He covered his eyes with his hands.

She walked closer to him and leaned over him. "I'm not human like you are, Frank."

He moved his hands away from his eyes and placed them at his sides. "What do you mean by that?"

"I'm a water nymph. Let me show you how I travel." With that she melted to the floor and became a puddle. A few minutes later the water rose back up and formed back into Melanie. "Do you see now? I know you saw us moving back in the mine, but you kept shaking your head. No one else noticed besides you."

He didn't speak for some time. "So, why do you want to see me? I'm just an alcoholic with no real future."

"You're different. You don't know how many times I've heard the other water nymphs complain that men never pay any attention to them. But you paid attention to me. Only I was too afraid to say anything to you until the others came with me."

He sat up on his bed. "Wow. I can't say I ever saw anything like you when I was drunk. I still don't understand why you'd pick me. I don't know what I have to offer a water nymph."

"You can offer yourself. I wouldn't ask for anything else."

"Okay, whatever you want, Melanie. I have to say you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."

"You're so sweet." She sat down on the bed next to him and they continued to chat far into the night.

## Chapter 2 Farm Life on Eris

At Cat Falls, Eris, Samuel and Anastasia had a routine. He got up early and checked on the plants and Betty the horse. Anastasia got up a little later to fix the two of them breakfast. They'd eat together. Then he'd harvest some plants and animals in the hydroponic and aquaponic gardens to sell in town. She would clean house or do laundry and if it was one of the days she had to work, then she would go to the boarding house in town to serve customers and keep the dining room clean.

They were happy. They were used to each other. But something happened. Something that they were hoping for, but didn't try hard to get. It just happened that she noticed it first while she was cooking breakfast. He had just come in and sat down at the table.

She set the food and the dishes on the table and sat down. He served himself some food and noticed she wasn't serving herself.

"Is something wrong?"

She smiled. "No. Something good has happened."

"What?"

"I'm..."

He looked at her and waited with wide eyes.

"I'm pregnant."

He dropped the serving spoon and promptly passed out.

She laid him out on the floor to make sure he was okay and then cleaned up the mess on the table. She sat down next to him on the floor and waited for him to come to.

He did a moment later. He sat up. "Oh, I hope you're okay. It's quite a shock."

She smiled. "I feel fine. Let's eat breakfast."

They did. Afterwards, she cleaned the kitchen and he went back outside to continue his farmwork.

Soon she went to work and found Sally as fast as she could.

"Hi, Anastasia. How are you Samuel getting along?"

"Wonderful. Just wonderful."

"You're glowing. You two having a little fun?"

Anastasia laughed. "I'm pregnant!"

"Oh, congratulations!" Sally hugged Anastasia.

They went back to the dining room to get ready for lunch.

Days went by and soon Anastasia was showing. Her belly got big and round. Between Samuel and Sally, Anastasia didn't have much to worry about.

"Oh!" Anastasia rubbed her belly.

Sally walked over to her. "Is the baby moving?"

"Yes. It was a little painful, but now he's back where he should be."

Sally patted the younger woman's shoulder. "Sometimes they do that. Probably just running out of room."

Anastasia smiled.

Samuel walked into the boarding house and greeted Sally. He turned to Anastasia. "Need anything? Feeling okay? Need a massage?"

"I could use a back massage. It hurts to carry the baby around especially with him being very active."

Samuel wasted no time rubbing Anastasia's back. Sally smiled and went to check on the kitchen.

Then one night, her water broke. She breathed hard and tried to stay calm. She was about to go to bed. Samuel was talking a shower at the time. He came back to the bedroom to see her puffing. He saw the water on the floor and his eyes got big.

"Anastasia?"

"It's time. My water broke and it hurts!"

"Okay, I'll get some towels. Stay right there!" He ran to the hallway closet and grabbed a stack of towels. Next he ran to the kitchen and grabbed a bowl of water he set that down on the night stand near the bed. He wasted no time in massaging her back and her belly.

It was a long a night, but just before a gray dawn a baby boy was crying in the room. Both parents were exhausted and relieved. They named the child Antoni Lance Winchester.

Standing behind the check in desk, Sally's husband was busy checking the news on a tablet computer. He looked up when he heard Anastasia walk in. "Well, this is certainly a surprise. We didn't expect you to show up after you gave birth."

Anastasia smiled. "I'm okay and Samuel is fine now that the pregnancy is over. Besides, I want to work."

Sally's husband smiled as he looked at the baby in Anastasia's pouch. "So, is it a boy or a girl?"

"A boy. We named him Antoni."

"Antoni? That's a good name. He has your eyes."

"Yes, he does."

"If you need privacy to feed him, we'll find you some space."

"Thank you, I will need that."

Sally walked out of the office to see Anastasia and her husband chatting. "Oh, so you brought the baby with you. Let me see!"

Anastasia walked over to the Sally, who quickly let Antoni grab her finger. "So cute already."

"Yes, he is."

"Oh, you can use the room I used when I nursed my children. Come, let me show you." Sally led the younger woman back to the office and into a small room with a comfortable chair and pillows. "I know it's really just a closet, but with the curtain, you'll have all the privacy that you need."

"It's great. Thank you."

"Good. I don't blame you for wanting to come back. My husband was willing to cover me as much as necessary and he did. I can't complain. I hope Samuel is okay with you bringing Antoni here."

"He is. He knows me well enough to know why I still want to work."

Sally nodded. "I'm glad to hear that."

Antoni smiled and cooed. Both women laughed.

"They just keep getting cuter until they become adolescents."

"And then what happens?"

"They lose all their cuteness and sometimes aren't pleasant to deal with. And they eat a lot of food!"

Anastasia laughed. "I think we better get to work. There'll be customers wanting lunch soon."

"Yes, yes, let's go and service them."

Soon Sally, Anastasia and Antoni were in the kitchen getting ready for the lunch crowd. Polly was busy getting organized to begin her cooking. She saw Antoni and smiled. He smiled back.

Freddy walked into the kitchen and smiled at everyone. "Hi, Polly. Looks like Antoni likes you."

"Well, I'd hope so. He's awfully cute."

Sally nodded. "Alright, we all know what we're doing. Let's go get some orders."

Sally and Anastasia went to the dining room. Freddy was sweeping the kitchen. He still limped, but was grateful for his family. Seeing a new baby brought a smile to his face.

"Sis, you ever think you'll have a baby?"

"Why would you ask such a thing?"

"I was just curious. You don't have to." He paused to put the broom away. "But I would like to be an uncle someday."

Sally smiled at her brother. "I haven't decided. And you? Will you make me an aunt someday?"

Freddy laughed. "I don't think so. Perhaps you haven't noticed, but women don't tend to give me a second glance."

"Awww, that's sad. If they can't see what a wonderful person you are, then it's their loss."

"Thanks, sis."

Orders began to arrive. Polly started cooking and Freddy went to help his father check in guests.

Anastasia greeted the dining guests and wasted no time in getting their orders. She gave them water and bread rolls. Many people saw Antoni and smiled at him.

"Excuse me, how old is your child?"

Anastasia smiled. "He's a couple of months."

"Oh, how adorable!"

"Thank you." Anastasia went to the kitchen.

The woman at the table continued, "Just goes to show you that women are the ones who really build the colonies."

"With us raising children and working at the same time," chimed in another woman.

"Okay, you win. Women can multitask better than men," said a husband of many years.

"That's because we've had to."

Samuel was busying washing Betty when Anastasia returned home with Antoni.

"Hey, they're back," Samuel heard in his head.

"What? Oh, good." He smiled.

"You're done with me. Go see them."

"Thanks, Betty." He walked over to them. "Welcome home." He clasped Antoni's little hand and kissed Anastasia.

"It's good to be back. I'm a little tired." She yawned.

"That's not surprising. Other people have told me how exhausting it can be to take care of a baby."

"He's worth it."

"Good." Samuel took Antoni out of his pouch.

Anastasia took off the pouch and diaper bag. She set them down in the kitchen and got right to cooking. "Sally is letting use a closet so I can nurse Antoni comfortably while we're there."

"Good. I'm glad he's so happy."

"Of course he's happy. Everyone says he so cute and adorable."

"He must know what that means."

After dinner, Samuel was out in the moonlight running around in his cat form. Anastasia was sitting on the porch nursing Antoni. She smiled.

"If you become a werecat like your father, then I hope you're just as kind and harmless as he is."

Antoni finished and went to sleep.

"That's right, little one. Rest now. You'll be running around soon enough."

## Chapter 3 The Conception

One morning, Frank woke up alone in his bed. He didn't feel numb on this particular morning as he usually did. In fact, he felt restful. He got up and got himself ready to go back to the mine. As he was combing his hair in the bathroom, he saw water moving towards him on the floor from the bedroom. He didn't jump when he saw it. He just kept combing his hair. Once he was finished, he straighten his shirt and his pants. The water slowly formed into Melanie, who now smiled at Frank.

"I know I can't be losing my mind because I didn't have any booze last night."

"Glad to hear it. Do you have to go back to the mine today?"

Frank sighed. "Yes, I have to go back to the mine today."

"You don't sound as if you want to. Isn't there anything else you can do instead?"

"Well, I could take my brother up on his offer, but he's in the next town."

"Is it another mine?"

"No, it's his business and I would be working in the office with him."

Melanie didn't say anything as she could tell Frank was musing over his possibility.

"I don't know. I don't have any direction in my life to follow." He paused staring in the mirror at his and her reflections. "I better go before I'm late. I know the foreman won't like it if I am." He turned to face Melanie. "Well, this is goodbye for now. A mine is no place for a lady water nymph."

"Okay, I'll be here when you get back."

Frank gently grabbed her arms and pulled her close to him. He then kissed her and she kissed him back. Without another word, he stepped out of the bathroom and sat down on the bed to put on his shoes. Then he walked silently out of his hotel room and off to the mine thinking about Melanie the whole time. He thought it was amazing how one woman, a water nymph, could change one's life in such a short period of time. He shook his head as he reached the mine in time for his shift to start.

He grabbed a pickaxe and went back to the same place as before in the mine. This time however, there was no more water. Frank scratched his head. "That seems odd. Oh, well." He raised the pick and began chipping. Somehow the work felt empty and boring. Perhaps, Frank thought, he needed to find a vocation. Was there anything more to life than work and booze? Sure there was. There was Melanie. He smiled as he thought of her and tired to get through his shift.

He was surprised about all the thoughts swimming around in his brain. He was aware of the other miners, even though there weren't many left since the mine was beginning to run dry. He could hear them chipping away at the rock as he was. Frank felt strange to hear all those clicks echoing throughout the mine. He stopped to reconsider his brother's proposal. At least if he worked in an office, he wouldn't have to worry about getting so dirty and dusty everyday. That was certainly more appealing especially with Melanie around. She was always so clean. He couldn't wait for his shift to end.

The echoing clicks were getting on his nerves. He knew he could get his pay, leave, and never return to the mine. He may even have enough to take the train to the next town where his brother was. Once Frank heard the whistle for the end of his shift, he took the axe and marched out of the mine. He set the axe down with the other tools and then walked over the foreman for his pay.

"Sir, I won't be back tomorrow."

The foreman handed out pay to the other workers before answering with a long sigh. "Okay, Frank Mineur. I hate to lose one of my best workers, but I know the mine is drying up. Good luck with your new prospects." The foreman smiled at Frank.

Frank smiled and nodded. Then he turned and walked back to his hotel room.

While Frank worked in the mine, Melanie tried to amuse herself by checking out his belongings. There wasn't much to look at. So for a while, she was amused trying to figure out what everything was for. Unfortunately, she had to hide when she heard the maid cleaning the rooms around Frank's. Melanie quickly dissolved into water and slithered under the bed in the dark, hoping the maid wouldn't see her.

The maid opened the door a few minutes later and failed to see the water under the bed. She quickly picked up Frank's dirty laundry and threw it into a pile on the floor. Next she grabbed the sheets and tossed them out in the laundry bag attached to her cart. Then she dusted everything in his room and remade the bed with clean sheets. Next, she grabbed his laundry and dropped it on his bed. Then she cleaned the bathroom. Finally she swept the room and left without knowing there was someone else in the room.

Melanie stayed under the bed and waited the rest of the day for Frank to come back. She wasn't sure if anyone else was going to walk into the room and when they would do so. In the liquid state, it didn't matter how much time would pass or who passed by. It was as if time didn't exist and all there was were mere thoughts. She thought of him and how much she wanted to stay with him. The other water nymphs thought she was crazy and needed help, but she wouldn't listen to them. The others didn't know what it was like to have their sighs answered back with more sighs from someone else. Just because the other miners wouldn't even pay attention doesn't mean Melanie had to leave with the other nymphs. Water nymphs usually get bored when they couldn't get enough attention. They just moved on to another place and to see what would happen.

This time, Melanie didn't go with them, but with Frank and she wanted to remain with him. After following those thoughts for some time, she wondered when he would be back from the mine. It wasn't long before she heard the door open and someone enter the room. Soon it was clear from the trod of the boots and from the sighing that it was he and he alone. So, she edged out from under the bed and formed into herself once again.

Frank smiled at her. "Well, I'm not going back to the mine ever again."

Melanie flew at him and wrapped her arms around his neck. "That's wonderful. Now what?"

"Now, I need to pack my things and get a train ticket to the neighboring town to see my brother about his job proposal to me."

She released him and stepped back. "Is this goodbye?"

"No. I want you to come with me, but I was thinking you'd probably tag along like you did yesterday."

"Oh, yes, that would be good. I'll go with you. What's a train?"

"It's a way to get to the next town. There will be other passengers, but it shouldn't take too long to get there, but I don't know the train schedule." Frank held out his arms to her and she walked back into them. "I can go find out after I shower and get something to eat. Do you want anything?"

"Just you."

"You have me. I meant food wise."

"Oh, I guess just bring whatever you were going to eat to the room and I'll eat with you."

So, he took his shower and then went to the dining room to order some food to take to his room. When he came back to the room, Melanie was waiting for him on the bed. He closed the door and set the food on the table.

"I hope you like fish— I brought plenty of it."

"Sounds good. What's in that bottle?"

"Oh, it's some wine. You're welcome to have some with me."

Melanie strolled over to the table and sat down next to Frank. She waited for him to serve both of them before she started eating. They ate fish, some rice, and vegetables with the wine. Before long, they had eaten all of the food and drank all of the wine. Afterwards, he cleared the table and put the trash in the waste basket.

"Well, I should go to the train station and get a ticket. Do you want to tag along or just wait here for me?"

"I'll just wait here until you return."

He smiled and turned to leave out of the room. Once at the train station, he didn't waste any time checking the schedule and getting a ticket for himself. Since it would only be a few hours to the next town, he just paid for seat. Next, he went to the hotel lobby and used a phone screen to call his brother. He swiped his card and then punched in the number.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Clyde, it's me Frank."

"I was beginning to wonder about you. Are you still working in the mine or have you reconsidered my offer?"

"I've reconsidered your offer and I want to take you up on it."

"Great. How soon can you get here?"

"I'll be coming in tomorrow afternoon on the train. Should I just meet you at your office?"

"No, I'll meet you at the station. You can stay at the house so you don't need another hotel room."

"Great. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye."

"Bye."

Frank hung up the phone screen by pressing the end button and then went back to his room. He opened the door to see Melanie was lying on the bed. "Well, it's all set. We leave tomorrow early and we should arrive where my brother is in the afternoon."

"Sounds great. Do you need to pack now?"

"Yeah, I should do that." He walked over to the dresser and grabbed his suitcase that was next to the dresser against the wall. He opened the suitcase and then pulled the clean clothes out of the dresser and set them in the suitcase. He packed his toiletry items. He had a few dirty clothes that were also torn. He picked them up and put them in the trash. It didn't take him long and he was glad. He wanted to enjoy Melanie's company before they had to catch the train in the morning.

She had been patiently waiting for him and now she couldn't control herself much longer. Frank sat down on the bed next to her and she shot up and wrapped her arms around him. They started kissing and then laid down on the bed.

The next morning, Frank got up early and checked to make sure he had everything he needed. He hated to leave anything behind. Once that was done. He went to the dining room to get breakfast for the two of them. Bacon and eggs and some orange juice. He took it back to the room and set it on the table. Then he walked over to the bed and woke her up. "Wake up, honey. It's time for breakfast and then we have to go catch our train."

She opened her eyes and smiled at him. "Okay." She rose up and walked over to the table and sat down. Frank followed her and both began eating. Once done, he threw away the trash and stacked the dishes on the table. "Are you ready? It's about time and I have to check out before we go to the station."

"Okay."

He watched her turn into water and slither inside his suitcase. Once all the water was gone, he picked up the suitcase and walked downstairs to the lobby. He checked out and paid up his bill. Then he strolled to the train station and sat down on the bench to wait for the train.

As he waited, he wondered what Melanie was doing and how it felt to be water in the suitcase. She was very aware of his breathing and didn't care where they were going just as long as she was with him. Soon, they both could hear the train coming long before he could see it. Once the train approached and finally stopped at the station, he pulled out his ticket and grabbed his suitcase. He then walked up to the porter and showed his ticket. Next, he was ushered to an open seat and he sat down with his suitcase in front of him.

Before long the train took off and plunged ahead to the next town. Melanie could feel the train moving and she could no longer hear Frank's breathing. She hoped that the loudness from the train was the thing preventing her from hearing him. For several hours, he stared out the window at the moving scenery. There weren't many plants because it was a desert. Watching the sparse vegetation go by made him happy that he no longer had to work in the mine. He figured he'd be okay with the office job his brother had offered him, especially with Melanie. So the hours passed and finally they had arrived in the next town.

He grabbed his suitcase and walked off the train and onto the platform. He looked around and saw people moving everywhere. He took a few steps away from the train and looked around. Soon his eyes found Clyde who was waving at him. Frank strolled over to his brother and they greeted each other.

"It's good to see you again, Frank. I was just going to lunch. Care to join me?"

"Sounds good. Can I drop my suitcase off at the house first?"

"Certainly, it's right this way." Clyde lead the way to the Main Street of the town to where his office was located. Then he opened the door and walked up the stairs to his place. Frank followed closely and was shown to the spare bedroom. "I hope your old room will be okay for you."

"It will be fine," Frank answered as he looked around to see the bed with a nightstand next to it. He set the suitcase down on the bed and walked out with his brother to get some lunch.

After the brothers left, water moved out of the suitcase and onto the bed. Then the water rose up and formed into Melanie. She surveyed the room and found it to her liking.

Clyde took Frank out to lunch at a local restaurant. Once they sat down, a server came out immediately and took the order Clyde offered. After the server left to return to the kitchen, Clyde turned to his brother. "Well, Frank, I hope you're ready to see the office today... I would like to introduce you to Bonnie so it will be easier for you to come to work tomorrow."

"Sure that will be fine. So what exactly will I be doing in your office?"

"Oh, well, I was hoping you would check on requests for new transportation services and let me know where the new places are. Do you think you could do that?"

"Sure, I don't think that would be problem. Do I have to supervise the route construction?"

"Yeah, that would help. I doubt it would be too hard to do."

The server arrived with their food and both began to eat. Clyde had been having trouble finding someone who could keep up with the new requests and wasn't happy that he had to do it with all the other work he had to do since the robot stopped working. So, he was glad his brother accepted the job without too much indifference. Clyde did promise their mother on her deathbed that he would look after his only brother.

Frank, as he was eating, was thinking he would like not getting dirty all day at work and the requests for routes didn't sound too bad as far as work went. Besides, he hoped Melanie would like it as well and be proud of him for the new job.

After lunch was over and Clyde had paid for the meal, the brothers walked back to the office, where Clyde introduced his brother to Bonnie, who was the person who greeted anyone who walked in, and answered the phones then directed the calls to the right people. Clyde managed the current routes and all the people who drove the trains and shuttles and all the virtual paperwork.

Frank felt a little nervous, at least he was clean with clean clothes on, but still he muttered quietly in response to Bonnie's hello. Clyde showed him around the office, which wasn't very big. There was the reception area where Bonnie worked that was the main part of the office and there was a little hallway that lead to the stairs in the middle, and off to the right was Clyde's office and an empty office, which was to become Frank's.

Clyde showed Frank Clyde's office first, and then Frank's. Frank smiled when he saw his office with the sparse furnishings. There was a desk with the chair behind it and two chairs in front of the desk for other people who were visiting. There was a computer built into the desk itself.

"So, Frank, what do you think of all of this?"

"I think it's wonderful, Clyde. So this route stuff shouldn't be too hard to learn, right?"

"No, it's pretty easy once you learn and I will teach you. How about we start tomorrow morning around 9 a.m. to get you started? Today, just unpack and get settled in. I'll bring dinner for both of us this evening."

"Sounds good. See you later." Frank walked out of his office and up the stairs back to the room where Melanie was waiting for him. "Well, hello there. What did you think about the train trip here?"

"It was loud and bumpy, but I'm glad you put your suitcase in front of you. And I do like this room your brother gave us. Do you think I should meet him?"

"Well, I suppose that's up to you. I don't mind. But I don't know how he'll react to you."

"Oh, well, when do you start your new job?"

"Tomorrow morning."

"Then you have some time for me this evening?"

"Of course, but Clyde will be back later with some food for us."

She grabbed him to pull him closer to her. "Well, until then..."

It didn't take Frank long to learn his job or to get used to the requests. It was somewhat time consuming and Frank could see why his brother needed someone else to do this job. The bookwork took about as long as Frank had to submit reports to his brother to help that task along.

Being away from the mine didn't stop Frank from drinking, in fact he was drinking even more. Melanie didn't really like the stuff too well and eventually didn't drink anymore. She drank mostly water and that was good enough for her, but she noticed that Frank was changing and wasn't sure if the changes were good. His energy level decreased and his speech was often slurred. He was also becoming klutzy and she wondered why. Still she didn't say anything and still she hadn't met his brother either. She just stayed in Frank's room and kept herself amused by thinking of the other water nymphs and wondered where they were and what they were up to.

Then one day, it was over. Frank didn't wake up. Melanie was lying next to him and didn't know what was wrong. She rolled over and sat up. Still he didn't respond. She shook him and still he didn't respond. The sun was up, so she thought she better risk her exposure to Clyde to see what was wrong with Frank. She threw back the covers and slowly rose up out of bed and walked to Clyde's room.

The door was closed, so Melanie turned the handle and walked through to find Clyde asleep in his bed. She carefully walked to the side of his bed and tapped him. Clyde awoke with a jerk. "Who's there?" He sat up and looked straight at Melanie. "Uh, who are you?"

"My name is Melanie and I'm not sure what's wrong with Frank. Will you come with me and find out?"

"Sure." Clyde jumped out of bed and followed Melanie, thinking he had no idea who this good looking blue skinned red haired woman was and how she got into the house. They both made it to find Frank fairly stiff in bed.

"Oh, no," said Clyde as he ran over to this brother. Clyde tried to listen for Frank's breath, but there wasn't any. Finally, Clyde put his head down on Frank's chest and cried. Melanie understood and cried, too. Her affair with Frank was over and there was no replacement... After a little while, Clyde rose up and said, "I have to call the undertaker. In the meantime, you stay here and we'll talk later."

He left the room and went downstairs to make his phone call. She stayed with Frank and sat down on the bed next to him thinking where she could go now. She didn't want to impose on Clyde, but she wanted to talk with him. So, she just waited.

When Clyde came back, he had the undertaker with him. Melanie was no longer blue skinned, but still red haired, but instead looked rather human. Clyde didn't say anything, but his eyes widened when he saw her. Then he let the undertaker take the body to leave Clyde alone with Melanie.

"I thought you had blue skin," said Clyde breaking the silence.

"It was. I'm not sure what happened, but I don't feel well either."

"How do you feel?"

"I feel like I could throw up if I try to eat anything."

"Then don't eat for awhile."

Neither spoke for a few minutes.

## Chapter 4 Is He a Werecat?

Darien Dashing sat in his office in the city of Xena, the capital of Eris. He was checking the reports. The southern region of Eris was doing well. Towns were growing, especially Cat Falls.

He sat back in his chair and grimaced. He hated the town of Cat Falls. He especially hated those who lived there. But what to do about them? It was clear they were starting to cut into his profits. Something that he couldn't live with. Perhaps it was time to do something about the inhabitants of Cat Falls. Not to mention that his fiancée went off and married a resident of that same town... How could she after her mother had promise him?

But what could he do that they wouldn't suspect him? It was so obvious. He smiled and his eyes narrowed. It was just a matter of time for him to have his revenge.

Samuel and Anastasia watched their toddler son grow. They were sitting on the porch when he was running in the yard in the evening.

"I remember running around like that at his age."

She laughed. "I wonder if he will be a werecat like his father."

"I don't know. I'm not sure if it's even genetic."

"It could very well be."

"We may not find out until he's older."

"You mean about the time you found out?"

"Yeah, probably."

"Should we tell him?"

"I'll tell him when he's older. At least we'll know when it's about to happen. He will be hot and sweaty for no other reason."

"True enough."

Betty, the horse, watched Antoni run around. Inwardly she smiled. The child reminded her of another child who did the same things at the same age. She looked forward to watching this newer child grow and change.

Anastasia went to work as usual. Antoni, with his blonde hair and green eyes, squirmed in her arms and asked to be put down. She set him down gently and he ran into the boarding house. He stopped and looked around. The first person he recognized was Sally. He ran over to her.

"Sally!"

She looked down. "Well, hello, Antoni! I take it your mom isn't too far behind."

"Nope, she's right there."

"Good."

"Can I help out today?"

"Well, of course you can. Let's see, what would you like to do?"

"Can I help Freddy?"

"Sure."

Anastasia walked over to Sally and Antoni. She rubbed his hair. "What are you up to, my son?"

"Sally says I can help out Freddy today."

"Oh?"

"He wants to help and I'm sure it will be good for Freddy."

"Okay."

Sally turned to the front desk. "Dear, find our son and let him know he will have a small assistant today."

"Sure thing." He quickly pressed a couple of buttons on the desk. When he was done, he looked up at his wife. "He's on his way. Hi, Antoni, are you ready to start working today?"

"Yes!"

"That's good. We can use all the help we can get around it. Some days it just gets too busy."

"The colony must be getting bigger."

"Yes it is."

Freddy limped into the main room. "So, who's my assistant for today?"

"I am!"

"Oh, good. I was hoping you'd want to work with me. Let's get started." Freddy bent down to give Antoni a hug. "Let's start upstairs. We've got some leaky pipes to fix."

"See you later, Mom!"

"See you later, sweetie."

Antoni and Freddy went upstairs. Soon they were in a bathroom. Freddy set the tool box down on the floor and he opened up a panel. Antoni watched closely.

"I need a wrench."

"Oh, this it?"

"Yes, thank you." Freddy made some adjustments and soon the leaks stopped. He replaced the panel. "Okay, next room."

Antoni tried to pick up the tool box, but he couldn't lift it. Freddy smiled and picked it up.

"This way."

Antoni followed Freddy into another room. This continued for a good hour. Once they were done, the pipes weren't leaking anymore. Then they went downstairs to the kitchen.

Polly was busy cooking. She saw Freddy walk in with Antoni. She smiled. "Welcome, boys. I was wondering if you'd be coming, Antoni."

"Hi, Polly!"

"I was surprised to see your mom by herself today."

"I'm Freddy's assistant today."

"Oh, lucky Freddy."

"He's been very helpful. We came to help keep the kitchen clean and to make sure you have everything you need."

"I'm keeping up without too much trouble, but the dishes are piling up."

"Then that's where we'll start. Come on, Antoni, you can use the step stool." Freddy put the step stool in front of the sink. He picked up Antoni and set him down gently. The two of them spent the rest of the afternoon washing dishes.

Anastasia and Antoni got ready to leave. He yawned.

"Mom, I want to be Freddy's assistant tomorrow."

Anastasia smiled. "That's fine with me."

Freddy smiled. "I'm looking forward to it, buddy."

Some guests were sitting in the main room. They said, "Awww. How cute!"

Anastasia took Antoni by the hand and they walked out of the boarding house.

## Chapter 5 The Secret Birth

Clyde was busy in his office doing virtual paperwork once again. He sighed, but kept at his work. Finally, he was done checking the current routes and the books and he sighed once again. He raised his head from his desk and noticed water flowing into his office. It stopped into a little puddle and then formed into a woman. Clyde stared with his mouth gaping. It was Melanie and she was blue again.

"How did you do that?"

"I'm a water nymph. That's how we get around, especially when we need to be discrete. You do realize that some humans can't be trusted."

Clyde nodded his head. "So, that's why I didn't know you were here. Did you come with my brother?"

"Yes, I traveled in his suitcase."

He rose up from his desk. "No wonder I never saw you before." He slowly approached her and watch her skin change colors again. "You're doing it again. How do you change your skin color?"

"I don't know, but perhaps I should leave before anything else happens."

"No, wait. I'd rather you'd stay here and tell me more about my brother."

Melanie had tears in her eyes, but she couldn't speak. Instead, she collapsed onto the floor. Clyde raced over to her and checked for a pulse, which he soon found. He turned his head to listen for her breath and he could hear that, too. He yelled for Bonnie to come help him carry Melanie up the stairs to the room the water nymph had shared with Frank. Once that was done, Bonnie went back to her desk and Clyde stayed with Melanie.

He didn't say anything, but was lost in thought. He had heard some stories about water nymphs when he was a child, but none of them could help him now. He could hear Bonnie leaving for the day and he sighed. He shook his head and wondered what to do next.

Melanie opened her eyes and saw Clyde sitting near the bed. "What happened to me?"

"You passed out. I don't know whether to call for a doctor or not."

"I can't transform myself back into water. And I can feel something moving in here," she said slowly as she placed her had on her belly.

"Oh, no, you may be pregnant."

"What does that mean?"

"It means you may have a baby in a few more months."

Her eyes widened. "I never heard of a water nymph having a human baby."

"You sure don't look like a water nymph anymore."

Melanie cried and wished for the other water nymphs, but she wasn't sure how to call them now. Nor did she even know where they were. Clyde didn't know what to do. So, he just sat there and let her cry without chiding her for it. When she finally stopped and wiped away the last of the tears, he offered her dinner. She accepted and so Clyde left to get them something.

Clyde never told anyone about Melanie and Bonnie didn't ask. Bonnie made arrangements for Frank's funeral while Clyde looked after Melanie.

For the next several months, Clyde did as much work as he could and he also checked on Melanie several times a day. She never ventured out, even when he suggested she should go for a walk. She just sat in the room and mused over her loss— over Frank and the other water nymphs. She continued to mourn as her child grew inside of her, not knowing what would happen when she gave birth. She did find little comfort in Clyde's concern.

Finally, it was time for the baby to be born. Melanie screamed. Fortunately, it was Saturday and no one was in the office downstairs. Clyde ran into her room.

"What's wrong?"

"I think it's time for the child to come out. This is horrible. I've never experienced pain like this!"

"Okay, just relax and focus on your breathing. That's it just take a deep breath and then let it out. Just keep on that and I'll be right here with you."

Melanie suffered through most of the day with Clyde at her side and finally they both could hear the baby crying. But it wasn't over for Melanie. Clyde put the baby on her lap and then he went to grab some towels and a bowl of water. He came back and carefully cleaned up the baby girl as Melanie gave birth to the placenta. It was all over and Melanie was still in pain and unsure of her baby. The baby had stopped crying and was held by her uncle who busy getting a diaper for her. No one said anything for a while.

After Clyde got the baby into a diaper, he said, "How do you feel now, Melanie?"

"Terrible. What am I do to with her?"

"Well, now a baby requires lots of care. I don't know. My mother made me help out with Frank, but he wasn't a baby when I was asked. Babies need milk. You should be able to nurse her for awhile and then eventually we can give her the regular table food that we're used to eating."

"So you will help out with her?"

"Yes, of course. She is my niece and it's only fitting that I should extend my promise to her."

Melanie closed her eyes. "Okay, how am I supposed to nurse her?"

"You have to let her suck on your nipples."

"Oh, okay. Should I start now?"

"Yeah, now would be good. I bet she's hungry."

So Melanie got her baby to drink some milk and Clyde tried to give them some privacy. He waited just outside the door and listened closely for any signs of trouble. Melanie started to get the hang of it and soon her baby girl was full and needed to burp. Afterwards, Melanie called for Clyde and he came in again.

"I guess she just wants to sleep now."

"Okay, I'll put her in her crib." He took his niece and set her in the crib near Melanie's bed. Soon the little baby was fast asleep.

For a time, Melanie and Clyde spent much of their time looking after the baby whom they named Violet Nymphe Mineur. Violet was a good baby and slept a lot and then eventually she played and talked more. Clyde encouraged Melanie to take Violet for walks in her stroller. Melanie did so as much as she could. She had to walk past Bonnie, who still said nothing about Melanie living in the house and with a baby. A nun tended to go for her strolls to chat with people at about the same time Melanie and Violet would go out.

One day, when Melanie took Violet for a walk, Melanie felt extremely ill and wasn't sure what was happening. First, her skin turned blue and then she eventually dissolved into a puddle of water, leaving poor Violet to scream and cry over her loss.

Fortunately for the child, the nun was outside as well. She ran over to the stroller. The nun took a blanket from the stroller and wiped up the water and then placed the blanket back in the stroller. She quickly grabbed her rosary and said a little prayer. Then she sang to Violet.

After the nun had sung for awhile, Violet stopped crying. "There, there, little one. I'll get you home safely. I did see where you and your mother came from. Let's get you home." Soon the nun was inside the office with the stroller and spoke quietly to Bonnie.

Bonnie wasted no time getting Clyde to come out. "Where's Melanie?"

The Sister replied, "Sir, I'm not sure if my eyes deceived me, but I saw the child's mother, Melanie, is it? from a distance. She didn't look well and then her skin turned blue. She promptly dissolved into a puddle of water. The poor child was crying the whole time as if she knew there was something wrong with her mother. I ran over to the stroller and grabbed that blanket to mop up the water to bring back. It's just so strange, yet I couldn't leave this poor child all by herself."

"It's alright. Your eyes weren't playing tricks on you." Clyde took the blanket and examined it. "I thank you for bringing the baby back. She is my niece and the only family I have left."

"Oh, my poor man, I had no idea."

"It's alright. How far is the river from here?"

"Oh, it's just a couple of miles behind your house. I think there's some water in it."

"Good. Will you, Sister, and Bonnie, accompany my niece and me to the river?"

"Yes," both women said at the same time.

They went to the river with Clyde pushing Violet's stroller. There was indeed some water in the river. Clyde pulled out the damp blanket and looked at the nun.

"Sister, will you say a little prayer for Melanie?"

"Yes." She got her rosary and said another prayer.

Clyde held the blanket over the river and wrung it out. Water droplets fell into the river and he hoped, if there were more water nymphs that they would be able to reclaim poor Melanie.

The droplets flowed along in the river. Far down the stream, there were some water nymphs sitting on the shore at their land preserve. They were laughing and thinking of ways to attract attention from the human colonists living on Mars.

One water nymph spotted the droplets and screamed. The others turned to see what she saw. One went into the river and felt the droplets. They all stopped and went into the river. They dissolved into water and gathered up the droplets.

## Chapter 6 Growing Up

Bonnie sighed. Her mother was finally asleep and peaceful. Bonnie stood up and walked out of the boarding house room downstairs to the dining room. She sat down and was able to order her dinner right away. She wondered how much longer it would be before her mother finally died.

If Bonnie didn't have the job she had, she would have gone crazy long before now. She sighed as she looked around the dining room. There were plenty of men eating at the tables. They all noticed her. She just wanted to be alone. Her thoughts wandered as her dinner arrived. She ate without tasting her food.

She wondered who Melanie was, but didn't want to ask. She knew Clyde was in mourning and probably missing most of his family. She had heard and read the stories about his mother dying from a disease which could have been treated if it was detected earlier and she had been on Earth. Later, Bonnie had heard and read about Herbert Mineur, Clyde's father, disappearing without a trace. Many people thought he couldn't take his wife's death well and so left the colony. Some weren't even sure he was still alive.

Bonnie did notice Clyde wasn't mourning Melanie as if they were lovers. In fact Bonnie had overheard them talking about Clyde's brother, Frank, and how much Melanie missed him. Bonnie continued to eat. Her thoughts continued. So, that meant the toddler was Clyde's niece and the only living relative he had left.

She blinked back some tears. In a way, she found comfort in the fact that someone else was also sad about losing someone they loved. She also didn't mind doing more work when he was busying taking care of a baby. The work was a comfort to Bonnie.

She finished her meal and went back to her room. She found her mother still sleeping peacefully. Bonnie sat down in a chair, covered her eyes with her hands, and cried.

Unfortunately, she didn't notice the men in the boarding house who knew her mother was dying. They were waiting until Bonnie would be alone before they pursued her...

Antoni stepped out on the porch to look up at the moon Dysnomia. He stared at the moon and then noticed there was a big tawny cat out in the yard staring at him. Anastasia was busy cooking in the kitchen. Antoni and the cat stared at each other, saying nothing.

Samuel looked at his son and wondered if he would become a werecat someday. What was there to say? No one had warned Samuel of what he would become until Betty mentioned it. The little boy seemed so human, as did Samuel. Perhaps later on, when Antoni would be a teenager, Samuel would tell him his secret.

Anastasia was finishing up the cooking. "Antoni, Samuel, it's time for dinner."

Antoni blinked. The big cat was still in the yard. Antoni turned and walked back inside the house and into the kitchen. He sat down at the table as his mother was setting the table. He watched her.

"Is something wrong, Antoni?"

"There's a big tawny cat out in our yard."

"Oh? That cat is harmless. I guess dad is working late this evening." She served Antoni some food.

"I didn't see him outside. Perhaps he's taking care of Betty?"

"Yes, he must be. Well, no matter, he knows where the food is. He'll be back later."

Antoni blinked. Who was the cat in the yard?

Antoni got ready for bed. He had just had his bath and now he was sitting in bed with his mother sitting beside him on a chair. She held her tablet computer so he could see it. She read him a story. Then he laid down. She kissed him on his forehead and they both said goodnight.

Soon Antoni was asleep and dreaming away.

Anastasia closed the door to Antoni's room and turned to see Samuel walking into the bathroom. She walked to the kitchen and began cooking again. By the time she was done, Samuel walked in the kitchen and sat down at the table. She brought him the food and sat down beside him.

"Antoni said he saw a big tawny cat. He doesn't know it was you."

Samuel paused in his eating. "I didn't know what to say to him. He looks so human, like you."

"People would say the same thing about you."

"I know, but I don't know how to tell him he could become what he saw tonight."

"No one told you and I know there's still prejudice against your kind."

"It's not fair. I wish I was warned. Sometimes it's still awkward for me." He resumed eating.

"I know. I can tell. How far do you run when you're a cat?"

"I stay in the yard. I don't want others to see me."

"Sally knows."

"Sally won't talk, except to us. I don't want to let other people know."

"What about our son?"

"I don't know. I should tell him. It would be the right thing to do, but what do I say? 'Hey, Antoni, my boy, I'm a werecat and you may be one too'?"

"It's a start."

"He may not believe me."

"He would if you shapeshifted in front of him."

"It may also scare him as well."

"Yeah, I forgot about that."

Samuel finished eating. He and Anastasia cleaned up the kitchen and then they went to bed.

"Hi, Anastasia and Antoni. Are you ready? We have a lot of guests today. A new town is growing nearby and they've hired more people. You know how it goes."

"Yes, I remember. That's why I have a job to begin with."

"What do I get to do?"

"Oh, with all the extra guests, we'll need someone to serve water and rolls or any missed dishes."

"Yay!" He danced. "Do I start now?"

"Yes, go on back to the kitchen. Polly and Freddy are getting ready for lunch."

Antoni ran back to the kitchen.

"Where do kids get all their energy?" asked Sally's husband.

Anastasia and Sally laughed.

"They wear the rest of us down too easily and yet they keep right on going. It's wonderful when they're sleeping."

"Dear, our children are grown up and they don't wear us out. That's all the guests who keep coming to stay with us."

"Right, I forgot."

"Freddy, I'm baking extra rolls. Are the warmers all working?"

"Yes, sis, they are. I just finished fixing them this morning." He turned on the food warmers. "Ready for the rolls when they're ready."

Antoni stopped when he saw Polly and Freddy. "Sally says I get to serve water and rolls today!"

Freddy and Polly smiled at him.

"Good. I've baked extra and soon they will be up in the warmers. Freddy, show him how to serve the drinks and rolls."

Freddy grabbed a tray and demonstrated how to carry it and how to fill it up. He set the tray down and showed how to serve the table. Antoni watched closely.

"Okay, my turn." Antoni grabbed another tray and soon he had a tray with water glasses and rolls which he served to the kitchen table.

"Not bad. You'll be fine and help keep the guests calm while they're hungry."

Antoni nodded.

The dining room was packed. All the guests were talking so the room was noisy. Little blonde Antoni carefully served trays of water and rolls to every table. The guests were happy to see him. None complained of their hunger or how long they had to wait for their food.

The sight of the little boy put many people at ease.

"Hey, boy, is your mother around?"

"Yes, she's that server right over there."

"Oh. You're doing a great job."

"Thank you!" He ran back to the kitchen to fill up his tray again.

Clyde was busy with Violet one evening helping her get ready for bed. They were both tired. He stifled a yawn.

"Uncle Clyde, when is Bonnie coming back?"

"What? Oh, tomorrow morning. Why do you ask?"

"I miss her."

Clyde frowned. "You know Bonnie does a lot downstairs and she's here to work as my assistant."

"She's not your assistant. She runs the business."

Clyde smiled at his niece. "How do you figure that?"

"You're too busy playing with me to do any work."

"So, Bonnie has been doing more work and not complaining."

"Yes, and she's so sad, but she won't say why. She just keeps working."

"Oh? Perhaps you're right."

"Can she come live with us? Then I won't have to wait to see her."

Clyde grabbed a towel and wrapped his niece in it. "Perhaps that's a better idea. I know she's staying at a nearby boarding house. Staying here could save her some money."

"And I'll see her more. Maybe she'll play with me when you need a nap."

"Yeah. I should check over what work she has been doing lately. Here you need to get into your jammies."

"Okay."

Once Violet was dressed, Clyde carried her to her room and sat down with her on his lap. He reached for his tablet and read her a story until she fell asleep. Then he tucked her into her bed and kissed her lightly on her forehead. He took his tablet, turned off the light and walked out of her room.

He walked to the couch and sat down. He checked the business records and found that Violet was right. Bonnie had been doing more work and not complaining. He smiled. Ever since the robot had stopped working, Clyde had too much work to do. It didn't help that his brother wasn't around very long to help out.

He set the tablet down on the table. He yawned. He could see why Violet thought Bonnie was sad. Sometimes he heard Bonnie sigh when she was working. Clyde stood up and yawned again. He walked to his room and crawled into bed.

Bonnie woke up in the middle of the night. She could hear her mother gasping for air. Bonnie got up and ran to her mother. She held her mother's hand. "Mom, I'm here. It's okay."

Her mother was feverish, but relaxed when she felt her daughter hold her hand. She took more shallow breaths. She couldn't talk, but she was scared. She didn't know what would happen to Bonnie once she was dead.

But there was nothing she could do. Her body was worn out and lost the battle to a serious and fatal illness. She could see Bonnie watching and crying. Finally, she took the last breath and relaxed. She no longer could breathe and soon her heart stopped.

Bonnie cried for a few minutes. Then she pressed a button on the end table.

"Front desk. How can we help you?"

"This is Bonnie. My mother just died."

"Bonnie... oh, I'm sorry. I'll get the undertaker immediately. Just hang on."

"Thanks." Bonnie let go of her mother's hand and stood up. She wasted no time getting dressed.

A couple of hours later, Bonnie was packing her mother's few things and deciding what to do with them. The door to her room was unlocked and slightly ajar. A man walked by and walked into her room.

"I'm sorry for your loss, miss. Perhaps we can have dinner later and discuss future plans."

"What?"

"You know, you really shouldn't be alone. Now that your mother is dead, you need a man in your life."

"Get out!"

A handyman walked by. "Is there a problem?"

"Yes, please escort him out of my room."

"Yes, ma'am. Let's go."

"Now wait a minute..."

Bonnie watched them go. She could see more men watching in the hallway. She walked to the door, closed it, and locked it. She turned around and leaned against the door and slid to the floor. She cried.

## Chapter 7 Childhood

Alone with his niece, Clyde waited until Bonnie showed up to work. They were having breakfast together. Neither spoke as they were still waking up. Bonnie came in at her usual time and got right to work. Violet and Clyde heard her. Clyde took Violet from her high chair and put her in the playpen. He went downstairs.

"Bonnie, I have a big favor to ask of you."

She looked up at him. "What?"

"I need help raising my niece. She's just a toddler and I don't know how to take care of her and the business."

Bonnie looked at him. She didn't feel so safe at the boarding house anymore. "Well, I haven't taken care of a baby before... This is a rather unusual request."

"I know. I'm only asking because her mother is now gone. This is hard on me."

"I know how that feels. I took care of my mother who was very ill. She just died last night."

"I had no idea. I'm sorry to hear that."

She forced a smile. "It's alright now. She's at peace." She paused. "You just want help with the business and taking care of your niece, right? You're not asking me to do anything else?"

"Right. I have a spare bedroom upstairs that you can have all to yourself."

"Wow, there's three bedrooms upstairs?"

"Yeah, there always were three bedrooms in this house."

"Did your father live here by himself before he got married?"

"Yes, he did with a robot, which no longer works."

"Oh, that's right. The first colonists were given robots. The one Jain had is still running the local gym."

"Yes, that one gets regular maintenance. I don't know what mine needs."

Bonnie sighed.

"Well, Violet asks about you. She was the one who told me you were sad and that you were doing most of the work."

"She did. That child is very curious."

"Yes, she is. I checked over what you've been doing with the business lately."

"Oh, no. Here it comes..."

"What's wrong? You've done a great job. I should just ask you to become a partner."

"Really?"

"Yes. You're doing great. Better than the robot ever did. So what do you say? You and me be partners in this business?"

"Okay, let me think about it. I won't take longer than a week and I'll let you know."

"You're still welcome to the spare bedroom upstairs as well. I have heard of some bad stories about what can happen to single women in boarding houses."

"Yeah, it's already starting to happen to me."

"I can show you the room now if you'd like."

"No funny business?"

"No, but Violet does want to see you."

"Wait is she upstairs?"

"Yes, in her playpen. She should be fine, but..."

They ran upstairs to find Violet happily playing in her playpen. "Hi, Bonnie!"

"Hi, Violet."

"The room is this way. That one on the left. It was my mother's." Clyde pointed out the room and gave space for Bonnie to check it out by herself.

Bonnie looked it over. She thought it wasn't too bad. She was curious about Violet. She hadn't seen a human child with blue skin, red violet eyes and red violet hair before. She walked back out into the living to see Clyde and Violet playing together through the playpen.

"Why does Violet have such strange colors for her skin, hair, and eyes?"

"Oh, her mother was a water nymph."

Bonnie raised her eyes. "I thought water nymphs were a myth."

"No. My father meet them and studied their biology."

"Wow."

"He set aside the preserve just for them."

"Oh, wow." Bonnie sat down. "So the nun did she Melanie dissolve into a puddle of water."

"Yeah, I know she did. That's why I squeezed the blanket out into the river. I thought the water nymphs would want to know what happened to her."

"They probably didn't like it."

"No, but they had to be notified and I'm afraid to go visit them."

"Oh, because of the stories?"

"Yeah. Melanie actually woke me up in the middle of the night and I had no idea she was even here. When I saw her, I couldn't believe my eyes. She was gorgeous with her natural blue skin."

Bonnie smiled. "Yeah, I've heard those stories as well."

Clyde looked at Bonnie. "Take what time you need to decide."

"About the partnership or the living arrangements?"

"Both."

"Oh, well, I'd love to take the partnership. Without this job, I'd be lost."

"Good." Clyde picked up his tablet. "I'll have a lawyer come over to help layout the terms that we can agree to."

Bonnie smiled. "I'm not sure about living here, but if you will behave, then this may be safer for me."

Clyde looked up and smiled. "I give you my word. There is only one fresher, but we can set a schedule on who gets to use it when and for how long. However you want to set it up."

"Alright. When is the lawyer coming?"

"Looks like next week."

"Okay. I'm still thinking about the living situation. For now, there is lots of work to be done, partner."

Clyde smiled at Bonnie and Violet.

Bonnie went back to the boarding house after work to find that things were worse. Many of the men were watching her. She went to her room and closed and locked the door behind her. She looked around. She sighed. She saw the box of her mother's things she was planning to give away. Mostly clothes she couldn't wear.

Bonnie walked around the small room. She went to the closet and got out her suitcase. Soon she was packing up her clothes and toiletry items. In a moment she was done. She didn't own much else. She grabbed a smaller bag and put the rest of her things, a few mementos, inside. She went to one of the night stands and pressed a button.

"Front desk. How may we help you?"

"This is Bonnie. I'm moving out. I have a box of clothes for donation, but I don't know where to take them."

"Bonnie, I'll come up and take care of the box for you. Are you ready now?"

"Yes, I'm all packed."

"Okay, I'm on my way up."

A few minutes later the desk person was at Bonnie's door, which Bonnie opened for her.

"There's the box."

The older woman picked up the box without any trouble. "I know a place which will be happy to have these clothes. The room doesn't look bad at all. Let's get you checked out downstairs."

Bonnie picked up her bag and suitcase and followed the older woman out of the room, down the stairs to the front desk. It didn't take them long to settle the bill.

"Good luck, Bonnie. That business you work for is a blessing for Mars."

Bonnie smiled. "My boss offered to make me a partner and I accepted."

"Wonderful. I am happy for you. It's a great blessing when we can do work we're meant to do."

"Yes, it is."

"Good luck. I'm glad you and your mother were both here."

"Thank you."

Bonnie walked back to Clyde and Violet's house. She rang the door bell and soon heard Clyde running down the stairs. He opened the door.

"Hi, Bonnie."

"Hi, Clyde, I'm moving in to the spare room."

"Yes, of course you are. This way." He ran up the stairs. "Violet, Bonnie is going to live with us."

"Yay!"

"Hi, Violet."

"Hi, Bonnie. Will you play with me later?"

"Sure. Let me get unpacked."

She was young and strange looking. Just a child with red violet hair and eyes. Her skin was a pale blue. Yet, she was still human. Or at least half human. Violet looked around her room. She had been playing with her toys and noticed that they started to float. She wasn't sure why. She saw the old robot standing in a corner. She had never heard it speak. Yet, she wanted to hear its voice. Would the robot say anything to her? She raised her right hand and pointed her index finger at the robot.

The robot jerked and stepped forward. "What? What is going on? Have I neglected my duties?" The robot raised its arms and turned. He stepped forward and walked into the wall.

Violet's eyes got all big and round. She jumped up. "Oh, Mr. Robot! Don't walk into the wall!" She ran towards the robot and tried to lead him out of the room into the main living area.

The robot clunked about. "Who are you? You don't sound like Clyde or Frank."

"I'm Violet! Uncle Clyde! The robot needs help."

Clyde was sitting on the couch studying reports on a tablet computer. He looked up and saw his niece helping the robot. His jaw dropped. "What? I thought the robot was broken..."

"I, uh, I pointed at him and he started talking, but then he walked into the wall."

Clyde smiled and set the tablet down on the table in front of him. "It's okay, Violet. He's hasn't done much in years. He's needs a good tune up or perhaps even more work. I bet you just gave him a bit of a charge when you pointed at him."

"Really? You mean I didn't hurt him?"

"No, you didn't. How do you feel, Robot?"

"Terrible. I can't see anything."

"That explains why you're having trouble walking." Clyde stood up and walked towards the robot and his niece. He looked over the robot. "Unfortunately, I don't know how to fix you. I wish I did. I could use your help."

"I want to help, but what can I do..." The robot slowed down and stopped.

"Uncle Clyde, what happened?"

"His batteries are dead. They don't seem to keep much of a charge anymore."

"How sad. I just wanted to hear him talk to me."

"Well, he did. I should put him back in his alcove."

"Will he get better?"

"I don't know. I don't know what he needs or how much it will cost."

"Oh."

## Chapter 8 Teenagers

"Uncle Clyde, are you busy?"

Clyde was sitting on the couch looking over some work. He looked up when his young niece spoke to him. He set the tablet on the table in front of him and smiled. "Not right now. What's up, Violet?"

"I was wondering why you keep the robot. He's the only thing around here that is broken and doesn't look that great anymore."

"Oh, he was a gift to my father, your grandfather because of the work he did setting up this colony."

"Oh! So the robot has some meaning for you."

"Yes, I don't even know if my father died. I just know he went missing after my mother died."

"Why did she die? Was it the same thing that killed my parents?"

"No. My mother had a serious illness that wasn't caught right away. If they had found it sooner, she could have gone back to Earth to get treatment."

"Aww, that's sad."

"Yes, it is, but she felt it was time. She was quite happy and she also helped the colony. Before she married my father, she worked in the hydroponics and aquaponics lab to supply food for the colony. She continued to grow and raise food here in the house."

"Oh, she started the food we have here." Violet looked towards the kitchen. "Wow."

"She kept a diary. Would you like to read it?"

"Yes!"

"Alright, let me get it. I suppose it's time for you to have your own computer. I know you'll need it in school." Clyde stood up and walked into his room. He pulled out a tablet computer from his shelves. "Please take care of this tablet, Violet. It did belong to my mother, your grandmother."

Violet nodded and she took the tablet. "Thanks." She hugged her uncle and then ran back to her room.

Clyde smiled after her and then picked up his tablet again. He found a message from Bonnie. He read it and called her even though she was downstairs. Soon he saw her staring at him on the screen. "I just got the message. You've got the right idea. Just go ahead with your suggestion."

"What? You're not mad?" She smiled. "No, 'I can come up with something better than that. You should wait until I think of something?' "

"Bonnie, you know what you're doing and I trust your judgement. I'm glad you decided to become a partner and stay upstairs while I raise my niece."

She continued to smile. "I'm glad you approve. I'll take care of it right away, partner."

Clyde was still smiling when her image winked out. Both he and Bonnie continued to do more work with scheduling and checking time delays. It certainly helped when the employees would report things that others would forget.

Violet sat down at her desk. She set the tablet on the desk and turned it on. Like the robot, it needed to be charged up. She connected it to the desk and soon it was charging. It didn't take her long to find her grandmother's diary. It wasn't long before a new world opened up for the adolescent.

Before she knew it, it was late. She yawned. She set the tablet to the side and went to bed. Soon she was asleep and dreaming.

In the dream, Violet was sitting on a sofa. A teenage boy sat down near her. He had shoulder length, wavy blonde hair and green eyes. They stared at each other.

"Wow. You're beautiful. I've never seen anyone with red violet eyes and hair or blue skin. Or you human or something else?"

Violet smiled. "Thanks. I'm half human and half water nymph."

"Oh."

"I'm Violet Nymphe Mineur. What's your name?"

"Antoni Lance Winchester." He smiled at her. "I'm living on Eris. Are you here as well?"

"No, I'm on Mars."

"Wow. Are you in college? I'm currently going to the University of Eris in Xena, Eris."

"Nope. I'm finishing up high school. I'll go to college after I'm done."

They continued talking for a few hours.

Antoni opened his eyes. He was smiling in the dim light. He sat up and stretched. He got up and changed into his school uniform. Then he left his dorm room to go get some breakfast before going to class. He didn't seem to notice many people that day. Most everyone else noticed the smiled plastered on his face. He didn't focus too hard on his classes as he was too busy thinking about the strangely colored woman from his dreams. He hoped he would see her again in his dreams.

Violet opened her eyes. She was alone in her room. She could hear Bonnie getting ready in the fresher. Violet sat up in bed and saw her dolls floating before her. She smiled. She had long been used to seeing her toys floating around her when she played as a child. Whenever she wanted one that was out of reached, she would reach for the toy and it would float down towards her. It only seemed to happen to her. The other children never knew what she was talking about if she mentioned it to them.

Her Uncle Clyde figured it was because she was half water nymph, but he never sounded too sure. Violet threw back the covers and picked out her school uniform. She quickly got dressed and brushed her long red violet hair. She thought about Antoni and wondered how he could be old enough to go to college. Perhaps things were different on Eris. She shook her head. She put on her glasses with the small computer attached and walked out to the main room.

She picked some fresh veggies and fruits and prepared a large salad. Bonnie came out of the fresher a few minutes later. Both women could hear Clyde get into the fresher.

"Morning, Violet."

"Morning, Bonnie."

"You seem pretty happy this morning."

"Yeah? So is there a problem?"

"No. It's good to see you happy."

"What about you? Are you happy here with us?"

Bonnie smiled. "Yeah. I love being business partners with Clyde. And you were always good to me."

Violet smiled. She pushed her bowl near a stool, grabbed a glass of water and sat down. "You were always likable as far as I can remember."

"Thanks."

"What is it?"

"Nothing. I doubt you'd understand."

"Try me." Violet took some bites.

"Well, your uncle is strange."

"Yeah, so am I." Violet paused to eat more food. "Did something happen between you two?"

"No. Nothing has happened. I'm not sure what it is. I guess it started when the three of us first lived together."

"Oh."

"I'm not sure you remember, but all three of us sometimes would cry together for hours because we missed our mothers."

"That sounds familiar, but I don't think I remember it."

"Yeah, then we all eventually got over it and moved on with our lives."

Violet smiled and continued eating.

Bonnie shook her head. "You are the easiest person to talk to. I can understand it being easy to talk to babies, but you still are."

"Even when I'm moody?"

"Yeah, even when you're moody."

"Okay, so what's wrong with my uncle?"

"Nothing really. He's been good and true to his word."

"You sound disappointed."

"I do? I don't mean to. I just..."

"Hello, ladies."

"Hi, Uncle Clyde."

"Hi, Clyde. Ready for another fun filled day in the transportation business?"

"Yes, I am. But first, I'd like some breakfast. You having any this morning, partner?"

"Yes, I just haven't decided what to have."

Violet finished eating and set her dishes in the sink. "It's my turn for the fresher and then off to school." She left the room.

"What were you and Violet talking about this time?"

"Oh, just how the three of us have gotten along and how we've gotten over the deaths of our mothers."

"Well, I'd hope so."

Bonnie smiled.

Clyde sliced some fruit. He put the slices on two plates. He added nuts. He set one plate in front of Bonnie and one in front of an empty stool. Next he poured water into two glasses and set those near the plates. He sat down on the stool.

He and Bonnie started eating. Neither spoke.

Violet came out of the fresher. "Well, I'm off. Have fun working you two." She waved and smiled. She walked down the stairs and shook her head. She giggled to herself as she walked out the door and to school.

Upstairs, Bonnie and Clyde weren't talking, but she gasped when she heard Violet giggling. Bonnie looked at Clyde and he blushed.

"Thanks for breakfast. I'll get downstairs before someone tries to call us."

"You're welcome. I'll be down after I wash the dishes."

Antoni was sitting in class wondering what he would do once college was over. He frowned. Some of his classes just weren't interesting. They were too easy for him. He wasn't sure he would need a degree. He was happy living in Cat Falls planting or harvesting the plants or serving customers at the boarding house or even working with Freddy to keep the boarding house properly maintained. He sighed. He wonder why it seemed that some professors droned on for longer than their allotted time.

Then he thought of Violet. He hoped they would have another shared dream soon. He missed her and wondered what she was up to.

Violet came home from school. She waved at Bonnie and Clyde on her way up to her room. Bonnie and Clyde smiled and waved back. Violet wasted not time in getting a snack. Soon she was eating a sandwich. She smiled to herself when she thought of her uncle and Bonnie. She wondered when they would make it official.

Bonnie and Clyde were busy with virtual paperwork. There was a problem with one of the newer routes, but it wasn't something they couldn't handle. They just had to allow extra time for the construction.

But today was not a normal day for them. Both were irritable.

"Bonnie, why can't they just stick to the schedule?"

"Or the route for that matter."

"Yes, that too."

"Wait..."

"What?"

"Oh, they can't always follow the route. Look at the progress of the construction!"

"Oh, that explains it all. Why did it take us so long to see it? Or we just getting old?"

"Old? Maybe. Why are we so irritable today?"

"I don't know. Why does Violet keep giggling after she sees us?"

"Oh..."

"It's embarrassing."

"It is. She must know something we don't."

"What would she know?"

"Nothing." Bonnie stared at her desk.

Clyde sighed. "Bonnie, I'm going crazy." He threw his arms up and then let them drop.

Bonnie looked up at him. "I'm going crazy too. Violet thought I sounded disappointed and I didn't mean to."

"Really? What are you disappointed about? Our partnership?"

"No. That's been great."

"Then what?"

"Uhh..."

"Hey, Uncle Clyde?"

Clyde turned to face the stairwell. "Yes, Violet."

"I just applied at the local community college. I hope that's not a problem."

"No, not at all. Are you going to stay here or go to the dorm?"

"I was planning to stay here."

"Okay. Thanks for letting me know."

"I'll go study now. See you later."

Bonnie smiled. "Good luck, Violet."

"Thanks, Bonnie." Violet ran back upstairs.

Antoni was on the train. He wasn't sure if he would go back to college. He was frustrated and wondered about Violet. Right now he just wanted to go home and see his parents and friends. Later he would figure out how he would go and visit Violet on Mars.

One long train ride later, Antoni was stepping off the platform into Cat Falls. He had just his backpack on his back. He looked around and thought it odd that no one was there to greet him. He walked over to the boarding house to see his friends and his mother. No one else got off the train. It soon left him behind.

As he walked, he felt odd. There was no one out in the street at all. Antoni wondered where everyone was. No one had sent him any messages that Cat Falls was to be abandoned. Perhaps it was a surprise party for him? He hoped so, but he doubted it.

He stopped at the boarding house and pushed the door opened. It was too quiet. Eerily quiet. Soon he could see why. He saw dead bodies lying on the floor. Their faces contorted in shock and fear. He ran throughout the building, but it was the same everywhere. Many people he didn't recognize. But all the staff he knew.

Antoni ran out of the boarding house and checked all the buildings. Everywhere it was the same. Then he headed home to the farm. He didn't stop running until he was there.

It didn't take long for him to find both his parents and Betty. He collapsed on the porch and cried. He was alone and now had no reason to stay on Eris.

## Chapter 9 The Quest

Violet was sitting on the couch moping. Clyde walked up the stairs from his office. He smiled as soon as he saw her.

"What's wrong, Violet?"

"I have a paper to write about the beginnings of the colony and I can't seem to get a good picture from grandmother's diary. I wish I could access grandfather's. She said she knew he was keeping one as she was."

Clyde stopped. "Oh, wait. I think I have it." He went to his room. He searched his shelves. Finally he found a tablet computer and a cord. He walked out to the main room. "I found his computer. It probably needs to be charged and I don't know how well it will work now."

Violet smiled. "Well, I bet we could hook it up to my computer here on my glasses like we did with the other tablet."

"Yes, let's try that." He sat down next to her and hooked the tablet into the tiny computer. Soon the data was being copied to Violet's computer.

"Whoa, Uncle Clyde, your father did keep a diary. He's made references to vampires, were creatures, and water nymphs!"

Clyde smiled. "Yeah, perhaps you can learn more about water nymphs."

"I did hear there was a half water nymph who lives and works in the colony. Her skin is a weird color like mine."

"Yeah? Who is it?"

"Her name is Tabitha. I have seen pictures of her. She has blonde hair. Strange that she has a normal hair color."

"I don't think there's anything wrong with your hair color."

Violet laughed. "You're my uncle and you did meet my mother."

"Yes, I did. I didn't even know she was in the house until Frank died." He cringed. "But she was gorgeous."

Violet laughed even harder. "Water nymphs have that reputation."

Bonnie walked up the stairs and raised her eyebrows at uncle and niece. "Alright, what are you two up to now?"

"I have a paper to write and we just found grandfather's diary. It's loaded with more information about the colony's beginnings than grandmother's diary had."

"Well, Herbert did more actively than she did, but she did raise two boys pretty much by herself." Clyde watched Violet.

"I didn't look at it that way. I should put that in my paper. Without anyone raising children, the population isn't going to grow very fast."

"This is true. Perhaps you should cite examples from both diaries to give a better view of how the colony was built."

"Yes, I'll do that. Thanks, Bonnie."

"You're welcome. Is anyone else ready for dinner? I'm starved."

"Oh, yes, sounds good to me." Clyde turned to smile at Bonnie. "Violet, are you hungry?"

"Yeah, as I usually am these days."

Several hours later, Antoni sat up. He was thirsty and hungry. He stood up slowly and walked inside the house. He found what he needed in the kitchen. He thought of Violet with her long red violet hair and her red violet eyes. Her light blue skin. He could see her smiling at him.

He finished eating and went to his room. He packed up the rest of his clothes in a suitcase. Fortunately, he didn't own much and there was still room in the suitcase. He took off his backpack and set it on the bed next to the suitcase. He took his clothes out of the backpack and put them in the suitcase.

He counted up his money and knew he didn't have enough to get to Mars. He sat down on the bed and sighed. Then he remembered where his parents kept their mad money. He jumped up and ran to their room. He soon found what he was looking for.

"Mom, Dad, I just want you to know that I'm going to Mars to visit my friend, Violet. I don't know what else to do now. I'm not even sure about college or a job. I suppose I can do odd jobs for now as I did when I was in school."

He turned and walked out of the room. He went back to his room and closed up the suitcase. He then made sure he grabbed both the suitcase and his backpack. He walked to the kitchen. He grabbed as much food as he could and stuffed the backpack. The suitcase had a pair of wheels, so towing it behind him wasn't a problem.

Antoni left the house for the last time. He said goodbye to his parents and to Betty. He walked away from Cat Falls to the train station and said goodbye to most everyone he had known his whole life.

At the station, he used the computer terminal to request transportation to get him to the spaceport in Xena. He found one quickly that was able to stop for him. It also didn't cost much. While he waited, he found passage from Eris to Mars. It took some time to get a place on board the ship, _Snowstorm_ , and he agreed to work in the galley and serve food to the other passengers. By the time he had finished signing up, his first transport had arrived.

He walked away from the terminal and grabbed his suitcase. Soon he was on board the shuttle and they left via the airlock. In a matter of hours, Antoni would be back in Xena and in the spaceport.

He didn't talk to anyone on the shuttle and he stayed out of everyone's way. When the shuttle arrived at the spaceport, he waited for others to leave before he stood up and grabbed his backpack and his suitcase. Then he followed the signs to the ship that would take him to Mars.

He checked in and was told to see the captain before seeing his quarters. Antoni walked to the Captain Whitfield's room and stood before the captain.

"Oh, who are you?"

"Antoni Lance Winchester."

"Oh, yes, a late arrival. We will be leaving this morning. You look tired. Are you alright?"

"Yes, sir."

"Okay. I see you have some experience serving and growing food. Excellent. We will need your services aboard this ship. Your employment will give free travel to Mars, your own quarters, and food. If you do well, you're welcome to become a full member of this crew. Would that interest you?"

"Maybe."

The captain smiled. "Alright. We can discuss that later. For now, you will be shown your quarters. There will be uniforms for you to wear while on duty. Off duty, well, I won't say anything to you, nor will anyone else, if you choose to wear your own clothes. We'll need you for lunch at 11 a.m. Be in the galley in uniform."

"Yes, sir."

"You may go."

Antoni took his suitcase, turned, and walked out of the room. Soon he was following the lights which led him to his quarters. His quarters were small. There was enough room for his bed and storage space for his suitcase and backpack. There was a small bathroom with a shower, toilet and small sink. He found the uniforms hanging up in the closet. He put his things away without unpacking anything. He sat down on the bed and sighed.

He laid down on the bed and was soon asleep.

Then he was dreaming of Violet again...

Violet and Antoni were talking. She was laughing. He was smiling. They were lying on pillows with the top of their heads touching.

"Antoni, I've missed you."

"Yeah, I've missed you too."

"What's new? I'm dropping out of college."

"So am I. I just got a job working as a server on board a spaceship."

"Cool. I want to travel around the solar system. There are so many colonies to explore."

Antoni smiled. "Can I join you?"

"Sure. Why not?"

"There you are, Violet." Bonnie sat down next to Violet on the couch.

"Hi, Bonnie." Violet made some hand signs that the small computer attached to her glasses would understand and then turned to look at Bonnie.

"How did the paper come out?"

"Good. I got an A on it. The teacher liked how I showed that what both my grandparents did helped the colony."

"Congratulations."

"Thanks. Anything new with my uncle?"

"No."

"Really, it's getting worse around here."

Bonnie sighed.

"Well, I'm thinking about exploring Mars soon."

"Really? Why?"

"I'm curious. I've lived here all my life and I want to know more, especially after learning about my grandparents' diaries."

"Oh. What about school?"

"I don't know. Some of the classes are too easy and I'm not sure what I'm going to do with a degree or what else I want to do."

"You should ask your uncle before you take off."

"Yeah, I do want to talk with him. Where is he? He told me he was too busy a little while ago."

"Oh, he's checking over a new possible route. He should be back soon. Unless there's a delay."

Violet smiled. "Oh, that would be bad if there were a delay. Uncle might lose his temper."

Bonnie laughed. "He might." She looked at her feet. "Hey, Violet, would it bother you if your uncle got involved with anyone?"

Violet laughed. "Bonnie, why don't you ask him?"

Bonnie gasped. "You don't care!"

"Nope. Go ahead. Perhaps you'll both feel more comfortable when I'm out exploring."

Bonnie smiled and looked at her feet again. Soon they both could hear Clyde walking up the stairs. Bonnie blushed and Violet giggled.

"Hello, ladies."

"Hi, Uncle Clyde."

"Hi, partner."

"So anything new?"

"I'm thinking about exploring Mars on my own."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, I'm curious especially after learning more about my grandparents."

"Okay. What about college?"

"I don't know yet. Some of the classes are too easy for me."

Clyde smiled. "Sometimes they are. I guess you could learn more from exploring the colony than you can from school. Just be sure to call me once a week."

"Okay, I can do that. I'll also be blogging about my adventures to earn some money on the side."

Clyde nodded. "Good. At least you can think ahead. When are you going to leave?"

"After classes are over."

"So that's what? Another week with us?"

"Yep."

"Clyde, are you sure about letting her go like this?"

"No, but she does have to grow up sometime. I think exploring can help her do that."

"How do you know that?"

"I don't know for sure, but she has the same enthusiasm about exploring as I do about setting up efficient and inexpensive transportation."

Bonnie smiled. "That's a good point. She'll probably do it without permission then?"

"Sure I would!"

"Yeah, I bet you would, my darling niece."

## Chapter 10 Flight

A chime resonated in Antoni's quarters. He opened his eyes. He was lying on his side. The chime rang again. A computer screen on the wall was facing him with a message. He pressed the screen and he read the message. His commanding officer, Galley Master Douglas, requested his presence in the galley at 10 a.m. It was 9:30 a.m.

Antoni yawned and sat up. He stood up and took off his clothes and left them on the floor for the moment. He took a quick shower and changed into clean underwear and a uniform. He smiled realizing it fit him perfectly. He wondered how they knew what size to give him. He spun around, picked up the dirty laundry and set it on the floor of the closet. He closed the closet door.

It was 9:50 a.m. He left his quarters and went straight to the galley being led by the lights. By 10 a.m., he was standing in front of his commanding officer.

"Ah, Mr. Winchester. Welcome aboard. I hope you got some sleep."

"A little, sir."

"Good. You can sleep after we clean up from lunch. You do look like you need some more. Everything okay?"

"Yes, sir."

"Okay, I have read over your work experience and I just want to show you around and get you acquainted with the crew before we start lunch. I'm just glad we don't have to train you to do this work. It's pretty unusual that we hire someone at the last minute."

Antoni greeted and nodded to each member of the crew as he was introduced to them. Soon he was shown where everything was kept and how he would be expected to serve the passengers. After his experiences on Eris, it wasn't hard to pick up on the differences.

Lunch was busy and some of the crew were eating at the captain's table with a few key guests. Antoni served lots of people and many were grateful to see the young man. He didn't smile at anyone. Neither did he frown at anyone. Eventually the passengers left the dining room. Antoni and the others cleaned up the dining room and the galley.

Antoni walked slowly back to his quarters and didn't notice anyone. He yawned and got inside his room as soon as he could. He didn't have to report for duty until 6 p.m. The door closed behind him and he slipped out of the uniform. He hung it up in the closet and then laid back down on his bed.

Soon he was asleep and dreaming he was back on Eris... He woke up later sweating and shaking. He sat up and checked the time. He sighed and got up. He took off his underwear and took another quick shower. He wrapped a towel around himself and just breathed.

He wondered if he would have another nightmare when he went to sleep. He saw the clock again and knew he would have to hurry. He grabbed clean underwear and slipped the uniform on. Then he ran to the galley. Master Douglas smiled at him. Antoni stopped running and nodded.

"Ah, Mr. Winchester, it's good that you made it. I hope the nap did you some good."

"I think it did, sir."

Master Douglas nodded. "It's okay, you're not late and you are getting the hang of it. Okay, everyone, we've got passengers to keep happy."

Everyone did what they needed to do and soon the food was ready and the passengers were sitting down in the dining room. Antoni noticed a heated argument between two of the passengers. He said nothing as he was still doing his job. The officers at the captain's table took notice as well. For now they were just watching.

Antoni was clearing the dishes from the table, when one passenger drew a gun on another.

"That's it! You know I'm right!" He stood up.

Antoni froze in place. He watched closely as the officers stopped eating. Everything slowed down for Antoni. The passenger raised the gun and was about to fire. Antoni slammed the dirty dishes towards the passenger, who dropped the gun. Antoni grabbed it and held it. The passengers and crew stared at Antoni. The captain and the officers ran over.

"Mr. Winchester, please hand the weapon to Master at Arms Winfry."

Antoni handed the gun over without question. He was shaking and sweating.

"Thank you, Mr. Winchester. You may resume your duties."

Antoni cleaned up the dishes he had shoved onto the floor and wiped down the table. Captain Whitfield and the officers watched him. The officers arrested the passenger with the gun and quickly restored peace to the dining room.

Captain Whitfield was on the bridge when he received an important message. He read it carefully. "Computer, please tell Galley Master Douglas to meet me in my room immediately."

"Acknowledged, Captain."

Captain Whitfield sat down as Galley Master Douglas walked in.

"Yes, Captain?"

"Galley Master, please sit down. We need to talk about Mr. Winchester."

Master Douglas raised an eyebrow. "A problem, sir? About the incident at dinner last night?"

"No. He may not be Mr. Winchester or he is and he's the only living person left from Cat Falls, Eris."

Master Douglas sat down. "Sir?"

"Here, read this message."

Galley Master Douglas did so. "Oh, I see. I'm not sure he would have killed anyone after seeing what he did last night."

"I would agree with you. I think we need to scan him to make sure of his identity and then we will have to question him."

"Perhaps it will explain why he's so tired and doesn't seem to be happy."

Captain Whitfield nodded. "Yes, I think Mr. Winchester is sad, but he is doing a good job." He pressed a button on his desk. "Doctor Brown, please report to my quarters with a scanner immediately."

"On my way, Captain."

The captain pressed the button again. "Mr. Winchester, please report to my room immediately."

There was no response.

"Mr. Winchester, right this minute."

Antoni opened his eyes and saw a light flashing at him. "Huh? Did I miss something?"

"Mr. Winchester, this is the captain. I need you in my room now."

Antoni threw the covers off of him. "Okay, I'm coming." He stood up and put on a uniform. He wasted no time walking to the captain's quarters.

When he walked in, he saw the captain sitting at his desk. Antoni also saw Galley Master Douglas and another man sitting in front of the desk. They all stared at him. "Sir, you wanted to see me?"

"Yes. Dr. Brown, scan him."

Antoni gasped as Dr. Brown scanned him.

"He is Antoni Lance Winchester and he is 19 Earth years old."

"What? Why?"

"Mr. Winchester, I just received a message from Eris that everyone in the town of Cat Falls has been murdered. No one is sure how or why, but they suspect that you were there after they died."

Antoni shook and cried. He tried to remain quiet.

"You are wanted for questioning. Please, can you tell us anything?"

"I don't know what happened. I just went home for a visit. I was hoping to talk with my parents about college. I wasn't sure I wanted to go back..."

"Alright, we will tell the authorities." The captain sent the message. He received one back a few minutes later. "Dr. Brown, you will need to run some tests on Mr. Winchester. The results just may prove his innocence in this matter."

"Yes, captain. Come, Mr. Winchester, with me to sick bay. It looks like many of these tests aren't included in the routine physical."

Antoni was breathing hard. He pushed his hair back with his hands. He followed the doctor out of the captain's room.

"Captain, that boy is suffering from PTSD."

"Yeah, and we have him aboard. He's our responsibility for now. I just hope he didn't kill anyone."

"I don't think he did. I think he found them like he said."

"Then why is he going to Mars?"

"I don't know."

Captain Whitfield sighed. "I know your instincts about people are right. You haven't let me down before. But it sounds like he's running."

"From what? The dead? He could be. He's young and he isn't sure he wants to finish college. It could be a girl he's going to see."

The captain smiled. "Perhaps. We'll find out soon enough."

In the sick bay, Antoni sat on a bed staring at the floor. Dr. Brown used his scanner and took blood samples. It took a long time.

"Okay, I have what I need. Some of the results won't be available for a couple of days."

Antoni looked up. "It has to do with what happened to everyone in Cat Falls."

"Yes. The cause of death is being determined. You could have been exposed to something bad. We'll find out soon."

"Will I be quarantined from the rest of the ship?"

Dr. Brown checked his computer when it beeped. "Not likely. You're not contagious. But until the rest of the tests come in, you do need to take care of yourself. You can still work and tend to your duties, but it doesn't look like you'll be doing much else."

"What do you mean?"

"Your white blood cell count is high. Your body is fighting some kind of infection that you can't pass to the rest of us. That's part of the reason you're so tired."

"Oh."

"It's partly grief as well. Are you having any nightmares?"

"Yes. Not always."

Dr. Brown nodded. "I'd be surprised if you weren't having any nightmares at all." He studied the computer some more. "Oh, you should get to the galley. It's nearly 6 p.m."

"Oh, right." Antoni stood up. "You will tell me all the results?"

"Yes. I have to report them as well. Consider yourself lucky. You're on board a spaceship and you won't be arrested. If you had stayed on Eris, you'd probably be in jail right now."

Antoni nodded. He sighed. "I'll see you at dinner, Doctor." He walked out of the sick bay.

Dr. Brown watched him go. He pressed a button. "Captain Whitfield?"

"Yes, Doctor?"

"I've ran all the tests. Mr. Winchester is ill, but he's not contagious. He is reporting for duty."

"Oh? Then what's wrong with him?"

"I'm not sure yet. I ran all the tests I was requested to do, plus a regular physical. Not all the results will be in for a couple of days. He may be having an allergic reaction to something. If he is, I'll find out what it is so we can stop it. Or it could be something he was exposed to when he went home."

"Understood. We'll all be keeping an eye on that boy."

"Yes, he's awfully young to lose everyone like that."

"The Galley Master thinks Mr. Winchester may have PTSD. What do you think?"

"I think he does, but he can do his duties. I'm setting the computer to monitor him in his quarters and to remind him when he needs to report for duty."

"Good idea. Anything else?"

"If his condition gets worse, we will just have to let him sleep it off and give him a form of therapy which will help him."

"Okay. Keep me informed."

"I will."

"Mr. Winchester!"

There was no response. In the sick bay, Dr. Brown frowned. It was unlike Antoni not to answer. He pressed another button. "Douglas? Is Mr. Winchester in the galley?"

"No." Douglas frowned in the galley. "This isn't like him. He should be here by now. Has he gotten too sick to work?"

"Perhaps. I'm checking right now." Dr. Brown scanned and found Antoni in his quarters.

"Mr. Winchester? I hope you're still conscious. These current scans on you don't look good."

Antoni rolled over. He had just thrown up in the toilet. He groaned. He was dizzy, and so far was unable to sit up.

"Douglas, I found the boy. He's in his quarters and very ill. Don't expect to see him today. I'm sending you information on a new diet he will have to follow. Then, I'm going down there to check on him."

"Understood, Doc."

Dr. Brown sent the message, grabbed his portable scanner and quickly left sick bay to find Antoni's quarters. Once there, the doctor pressed his hand to the door lock and the door slid open.

"Oh, Mr. Winchester. I was afraid this would happen." Dr. Brown looked down at the young man. "I bet you feel like you're having the flu."

"Yes..."

"Well, you're having a severe allergic reaction to some of the food you've been eating here on the ship. I've already sent a new diet to the Galley Master. If you even ask for the foods you're allergic to, you will not get them. You'll likely get substitutions instead. We can't afford to let you die."

Antoni tried to smile as he looked up at the doctor. "I've never heard of allergies like this, nor have I had any."

"Well, the test results are in and I just need to send them to Eris."

"Okay." Antoni closed his eyes and saw Violet smiling at him.

"Mr. Winchester, I can prove your innocence and I know what killed the people of Cat Falls. But first, I need to make sure you're going to be alright."

Antoni opened his eyes. "How long will I feel this way? I don't want to eat..."

"Then don't. However, you should still drink water." Dr. Brown approached Antoni and scanned him. "You shouldn't throw up anymore and it will take a few days before you'll be well enough to work again. So, either I or another member of the crew will check on it to make sure you at least drink plenty of water. You don't have to eat anything until you feel hungry and well enough to eat."

"Okay, but I don't think I'm getting up off the floor."

Dr. Brown set his scanner on the floor near the door and reached down to gently lift the young man. The doctor laid him down on the bed. "Better?"

"Yeah." Antoni closed his eyes and saw Violet smiling at him as she reached out for his hand.

"Good. Someone will be by later on." Dr. Brown reached for his scanner.

"Violet..."

"Huh? Who's Violet?"

"Violet, I'm coming..."

Dr. Brown smiled. "Ah!" He left to go find the captain.

Captain Whitfield was sitting at his desk when the door slid open. He looked up to see the doctor walking in.

"I have the test results for Mr. Winchester."

"Yes, I'm looking over them now. So, he is innocent as we all wanted to believe."

"Yes, sir. And..."

"And?"

"I think I know why he's going to Mars."

"Why is that?"

"He's going to visit someone named Violet."

"He told you that."

"Not directly. He's sick and drifting. He said her name when he fell asleep."

The captain smiled. "Well, he is young. I hope it goes well for him."

"I hope so, too. Should we keep an eye on him?"

"No, we really should give him his space with Violet."

"Well, yes of course, but I bet we all would like him to become a regular crew member."

"Oh, in that case... yes, we should keep an eye on him and see if he'll be willing to be a regular crew member."

"Mr. Winchester, are you feeling well enough to work again? Has the doctor cleared you to leave your quarters?"

Antoni smiled at Galley Master Douglas. "I haven't spoken to him today, but yes I feel well enough to work. I'm not too sure about my new diet, though..."

"Oh, don't worry about it. We have dealt with food allergies in the past. In fact, we require all passengers to give us their food allergy list so we don't make them sick during the trip."

"Oh, is that why some people have special dishes?"

"Yes. Good thing you got those right."

Breakfast went smoothly. Afterwards, the passengers left the dining room as the crew cleaned up.

Antoni was carting dirty dishes into the galley when the captain walked up to him.

"Mr. Winchester, when you are done, I'd like to see you in my office."

"Yes, sir."

Douglas looked at Antoni. "Just go now. We got it. See you later for lunch."

Antoni nodded and left the galley following the captain.

"I see the Galley Master let you go early."

"Yeah. I hope that's not a problem."

"No, it's okay. We all know you've been real sick. I'm surprised Dr. Brown didn't complain that you just showed up this morning."

"What did you need to see me about?"

"Oh, the results of the investigation. As the captain I get to tell you personally and let you know about your inheritance. We can also discuss future plans."

"Uh, sir, I probably won't get much. My parents were never rich."

"No, but they could have left you a life insurance policy."

"What?"

"Parents tend to do that sort of thing to help their children if they need it."

"Oh. I never heard them discuss that sort of thing."

"Parents rarely tell their children until they're older."

Antoni nodded. They stepped inside the captain's quarters and sat down.

"Well, let's start with some good news."

"Okay."

"You have been proven innocent. We know you didn't kill anyone in Cat Falls."

Antoni sighed.

The captain smiled. "Unfortunately, your food allergies may be permanent. The doctor isn't sure on that point. I hope you can live with them."

"So far, it hasn't been a problem."

"Well, it wouldn't be on this ship, but once we arrive on Mars, you could have problems."

"Oh, I didn't think of that."

"Understandable. Galley Master Douglas can probably give you some tips so you don't have a problem. If it's really bad, then you can keep getting your food from the galley here."

"Thank you, sir."

"Now, I understand that a lawyer is trying to get in contact with you about your parents' estate. Here's the information."

Antoni checked the screen. "Oh."

"You may use our communications. I understand you don't have your own portable computer."

"No, sir. My parents couldn't afford it, but on Eris, I was always able to find one when I needed one."

"Okay, well you can use the privacy of your quarters to talk with the lawyer."

"Thanks."

"Now, do you know what you want to do for your future?"

"Uh, no. I haven't thought much about it."

"Oh, then why are you going to Mars?"

"To visit a friend of mine."

"A Violet?"

"How did you know her name?"

"You've been talking in your sleep."

Antoni bit his lip.

"You haven't said anything other than her name and that you're going to see her soon."

"Good."

"What's Violet's last name or does she not have one?"

"Mineur."

"Oh, we've been negotiating a contract with a Clyde Mineur. Any relation, you suppose?"

"I don't know."

"Let's find out." The captain pressed his desk screen. "We'll find out if he's even awake."

"Hello, Captain Whitfield."

"Hello, Mr. Mineur."

"Have you made a decision on the contract?"

"I'm still thinking about it and discussing it with my crew. I actually called to ask a personal question. Just out of curiosity."

"Okay, what's your question?"

"Do you know someone named Violet Mineur?"

"Yes, she's my niece."

"Ah, well, I have a friend of hers on broad my ship who is going to visit her."

"Really? Who?"

"His name is Antoni Winchester."

"Oh? Well, Violet is traveling and exploring Mars right now and I don't know when she will be home."

"Hmm. Mr. Winchester, did you let her know you were coming?"

"I wasn't sure when I would arrive..."

"Oh, Mr. Winchester, you are hopeless. It's usually best to warn a woman when you're arriving so she can be prepared."

"Sorry."

"Mr. Winchester, I'm sure Violet will be happy to see you whenever you arrive. I can let her know you're coming."

"Thank you, that would be great."

"Captain Whitfield, is he a member of your crew?"

"He is for this trip, but he has performed his duties so well that I hope he will become a regular member."

"I take it, he's not sure what he wants to do just yet."

"Yes, that is correct."

"Well, he's welcome on Mars. I wouldn't mind discussing his future plans with him once he's here."

"Good. I was planning on giving you an answer once we arrive on Mars."

"Sounds good."

Captain Whitfield pressed the desk screen and the call ended. "Well, you have some options, Mr. Winchester."

"Yes, I do. Thank you for thinking so highly of me."

"Good luck with Ms. Mineur. You may go now."

Antoni nodded and left the captain's quarters.

Clyde touched his tablet again. Soon he heard a ringing. Then Violet's face appeared on his screen.

"What's up, Uncle Clyde?"

"I just got word from Captain Whitfield that a young man named Antoni Winchester is on his way to Mars to visit you."

"Oh, really?" She smiled.

"Yes, and the captain and the crew are happy with his work performance."

"Aren't you negotiating a contract with them for travel to other colonies?"

"Yes and it sounds like they want to settle the contract in person."

"Wonderful. I would like to travel around the solar system and see all the colonies."

Clyde smiled. "Are you going to be blogging about your adventures?"

"Of course. I have earned some money writing about what I've seen so far."

"Sounds good to me. I've enjoyed reading those pieces so far. I look forward to reading more, once they're finished."

## Chapter 11 Vampire Interference

_Snowstorm_ and its crew made it all the to Mars. Captain Whitfield called a meeting with the crew's officers. They were to plan how to answer Clyde Mineur. They also wanted to discuss how best to ask Mr. Winchester to join the crew permanently.

"Captain, Mr. Winchester left this morning right after breakfast."

"Oh, that's not surprising. He's probably looking for Violet Mineur."

The doctor nodded. "I made sure he left with his allergy list. I just hope he follows it."

The galley master spoke up, "I did make it clear he could still get his meals from here. He hasn't vacated his quarters, but he's wearing his regular clothes."

Captain Whitfield nodded. "That boy has more options now than he did. Do we all want him to stay on as a crew member?"

All around the table, the officers nodded their assent.

"Good. That's settled. Now we just have to notify Mr. Winchester. I'll just leave him a message. He can get it when he gets back to the ship." He paused. "Now, for the contract with Clyde Mineur. Any opinions on the matter?"

"Let's take it. It will be more steady income for us all."

"And we'll be able to afford to keep Mr. Winchester permanently."

"Alright, we are in agreement. Then let's contact Mr. Mineur and accept the contract."

Antoni was sitting watching people walk by. Then he saw her. She had light blue skin with red violet eyes and red violet hair. He gasped and his heart pounded. He dropped his jaw as he stared at her.

She noticed him standing in the spaceport. Was there something familiar about him? Had she seen him before? She couldn't think—

"Violet?"

"Yes?"

"It's me, Antoni."

"Oh, hello, Antoni."

He walked over to her. "I, I didn't expect to see you here. How are you?"

"I'm fine. And you?"

He sighed. He shook his head. "I could be better. I traveled all the way from Eris, but I'm glad to catch up with you."

She smiled. "What happened? Why did you leave?"

"Everyone died at my town."

"What?"

"Yeah, my parents and my friends. I don't know what happened. I just came back and found everyone in the town dead."

"That's terrible."

He nodded. "Yeah. I just wish I knew what happened to them. I wish I could have done something."

"You said you weren't there when it happened."

"No, I wasn't. I was off at college and just went home for break."

"Then it sounds like there was nothing you could have done. You probably would have been killed with them."

"You're probably right." He paused to stare at the floor. "Thanks for listening. I haven't been able to talk to anyone else."

"That's what friends are for."

He looked up at her and smiled.

A pale looking human flitted into view. "Ahh, what do we have here? A water nymph?"

"Yeah, I'm half water nymph and half human."

"Oh. I wasn't aware that water nymphs and humans could mate." He sneered.

"I'm not the first. I probably won't be the last."

"I don't like water nymphs. They complained about our castle on the preserve. It's silly, but they were welcome to live with us, if they so choose."

"Who are you?" asked Violet.

"I am Victor."

"Well, Victor, judging by your attitude, I'd say it was you who created the problem with the water nymphs. I've researched the records. They requested that land so they could stay away from the growing colony. They haven't done anything to ruin the land. Nor have they committed murder."

"You think you're so smart."

"I know what I see and observe."

"Do you speak for the other water nymphs? Do you know what they want?"

"No, but my uncle did meet my mother and I can trust what he said about her."

"Well, we'll see." He took a glance at Antoni and at Violet. Without any warning, he grabbed Antoni and ran off. They became a blur and no one could see where they went.

Violet froze in place. The clerk on duty stared at her. Violet walked over to her. "I take it Victor is a vampire."

The clerk nodded with a gaping mouth.

"Damn!" She looked down to the floor. "Wait a minute. Do you know where the castle on the preserve is from here?"

The clerk closed her mouth. "Oh, it's just behind us that way. It's close to the wide river."

"Oh, there it is." Violet doubled checked using her little computer attached to her glasses.

"You said the water nymphs requested the land?"

"Yes, my grandfather wrote the petition and it was granted. He knew they weren't going to build anything on the land. As far as I know they are maintaining the land and the river."

"I did hear of Tabitha. People claimed she had light blue skin as you do."

Violet nodded. "Yep. She was also half water nymph. I think her hair and eyes were a different color."

The clerk nodded. "Sorry if I was rude to you earlier. I just didn't realize why you looked so different. I know I should be nice. It's not your fault."

"It's alright. I didn't think you were rude. I thought you were curious and shocked by my appearance. You still did your job."

The clerk smiled.

"I better go. My friend is in trouble."

"Good luck. I hope you find him."

"Thanks."

## Chapter 12 The Prisoner

Bonnie was busy checking the route schedules when Clyde walked in. She looked up at him.

"Oh, there you are. I was wondering, how can you stand it that Violet is off by herself?"

"Oh, I don't know. I think she needs some freedom. Exploring Mars will help her learn more about the colony that my parents help to build."

She smiled. "I miss her."

"So do I, but my parents would have let her go exploring as well. They let me start this business."

"Without complaints or worries?"

"I don't know about that. They never complained directly to me. They both encouraged me to go for it. I think they were more worried about Frank."

She sighed. "There wasn't anything any of you could have done."

"I know."

"Everything looks good on this end. What about the new routes?"

"The _Snowstorm_ sounds willing to be our first spaceship to travel around the solar system to visit the other colonies."

"Oh, a regular passenger route... sounds exciting."

He nodded. "Would you like to help me finish up the negotiations with them?"

"Sure." She looked at him and bit her lip.

He checked over the routes on his tablet. Then he looked up at her. "You're the best partner I could ask for."

She smiled. "I'm glad we're partners."

He smiled. "Good. Wait..."

"What?"

He stepped closer to her. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine."

"You've been biting your lips again. I wish I could kiss them to ease the pain..." He half closed his eyes. He shook his head. "I'm sorry. I promised I wouldn't do anything like that." He stepped back.

She gaped at him. "Violet knows."

He sat down across from her. "Is that why she kept giggling after she saw us?"

She nodded. She stood up and walked over to him. She leaned down to him as he stared. They both closed their eyes and their lips touched.

"I'm so glad I found you. So, are you enjoying your stay so far?" Victor asked of his guest.

"Who are you? Why am I here? What is going on? What do you want with me?" Antoni gaped at Victor.

Victor wrinkled his nose. "It's really very simple. I need a lure to get the water nymphs to my lair and you're it. Now, you will stay here in this room." He ran off to another part of the castle, leaving Antoni alone in the dungeon for the night.

Antoni laid down on his back, but couldn't sleep. He couldn't stop thinking about his dead relatives and friends on Eris. Nor could he stop thinking about Violet. She looked strange. She was a true friend to him.

He sat up. "Wait a minute, Violet doesn't know any other water nymphs! Victor, your plan may not work out the way you want it to!" He slammed his fist into the cold, damp slab he was sitting on. "Ow!" He shook his hand and rubbed it with his other one. "Great, no one is coming, Antoni. How are you going to get out of this mess? Hmm? I'll probably have to die. Well, then I could join my dead family and friends. I guess that wouldn't be so bad."

He laid back down. "But what about Violet? She'll probably miss you... You could just tell her how you feel about her. No, what would be the point? Wouldn't she just die like everyone else? Perhaps..."

Eventually he fell asleep from sheer exhaustion.

"Victor, who is the guest you're keeping in the dungeon?"

"Ursula, my love, he is friend to a half human half water nymph."

"Oh, they can mate?"

"Apparently."

"Tabitha was half water nymph as well."

"But she's not human at all."

"True. Her father is a werecat."

Both vampires shuddered.

"I hope you don't forget to give him some food. We can't have our prey go hungry. You know they don't taste as good."

"Right. The servants should take care of that. In the meantime, you and I have some pleasure to attend to."

"Yes, we do."

As the torches in the bedroom burned out, the vampires slipped out of their clothes and slipped into each others' arms and into the bed.

## Chapter 13 Near Seduction

Violet stepped out of the spaceport and got on a train. When the train stopped near the edge of the preserve, she stepped off and started walking. The castle loomed out in the distance. She had read the stories of how people were found outside the castle dead and their bodies completely drained of blood.

She shuddered. It was a cruel way to kill someone. She didn't stop walking towards the castle. She knew Antoni was inside. Why pick on her? She didn't know the other water nymphs. She only had guesses as to how they were as a group. Her Uncle Clyde could only tell her what little he knew about her mother. The only other source of information on water nymphs was from her grandfather Herbert Mineur's diary. From what Violet had learned from him, he worked with Ophelia, who was a scientist. He didn't spend as much time with the other water nymphs.

She reached the front door and it opened for her. She raised an eyebrow, then stepped inside. The torches were lit. She could see a few people in the dim light. She scanned the room and recognized Victor. She wasted no time in walking up to him.

"Ahh, such a brave one. I wonder what your blood tastes like?"

"Yeah, you would, wouldn't you? Did my grandfather Herbert Mineur's blood taste sweet? No, wait, he was such a curmudgeon that it was probably too sour for your taste."

The vampire scowled at her. "How would you know about that?"

"I've read and listened to everything my grandfather recorded. He mentioned getting bit by a vampire. He was afraid he'd become one of you when he discovered he had the virus which causes vampirism."

He flashed his fangs at her. "He didn't become one of us. He's something far more hideous now." He turned to walk away from her.

"Where's my friend, Antoni?"

Victor spun back around to face her. "Why do you care?"

She raised her eyebrows. "I just told you he's my friend. What have you done with him, Victor?"

"He's our guest for now."

"Really? So you expect me to believe that you didn't kidnap him and he went with you willingly?"

Victor scowled at her. "You are very difficult."

"I'm very perceptive and it drives you crazy."

He bared his fangs. "You can't see him!"

"Why haven't you attacked me? In fact, if you know where the water nymphs live and you don't like them, then why haven't you attacked them?"

"You're impertinent."

"I sense there's a reason you can't attack them."

The vampire's face softened and relaxed. He spoke in a soothing, melodic voice. "Violet, would you consent to being my new bride?"

It hit her like a ton of bricks. "Your bride? What's that nonsense? You're older than my grandfather. What are you thinking?"

"That you would be the loveliest, most beautiful bride of them all."

Violet answered him in her most melodic tone, "In that case, Victor, dear, perhaps you should release your prisoner to me. If you want me to be your bride, I will need a servant to look after my needs."

"In that case—"

"Victor, what are you doing? You should know better than to pit against a water nymph, even if she's just a half water nymph." The vampire had a cold hard stare for him.

"Oh, Ursula, dear, you were always the jealous type."

"Jealous? It's not hard to figure out how she will win against you. Let me at her. I won't let her escape."

"Perhaps you're right. Water nymphs are dangerous. Tabitha is pretty dangerous, as I recall."

"Yes, she is."

The other vampires came near to watch the fight.

"I just came to save my friend."

"Too bad. He'll die just as you will soon. Victor, let's not toy with her."

"Ursula, you always had the best ideas."

"Yes, and I am quite thirsty now."

"First we indulge in the half water nymph and then we go for the prisoner. You can't imagine how bad he smells."

"Smells? Really. I thought you said he was human. Only were creatures smell bad."

"He seems human. We'll know if he changes shape."

"Or we hear him howling."

The vampires slowly surrounded Violet.

## Chapter 14 Into the Water

Bonnie and Clyde lay sleeping in each others' arms as the morning light came in through the windows. Soon they opened their eyes.

"Did you sleep well, Bon?"

She smiled. "Yes, I did. Why did we wait so long?"

"Uh, I made you a promise and I didn't want to break it."

"And Violet."

"Yes, and Violet. I didn't want to upset her."

"She's okay with us."

"She is?"

"Yes, she told me before she left."

He smiled. "Good."

"I'm glad too. She told me to just tell you how I felt because she knew you wouldn't break your promise."

"Violet is so perceptive." He kissed her forehead.

She smiled. "We have time for another round before our meeting with the crew of _Snowstorm_."

"In that case—"

Through her tears, Violet saw an opening and she ran through it. She ran past the vampires and didn't stop at the window. She jumped through it and fell. None of the vampires followed her. They frowned as they watched the window. Under she went, deep into the water. She didn't bother trying to swim back to the surface.

But slowly, she floated back up to the surface. She took a deep breath and then cried hard. She thrashed about in the water. She wanted to scream, but no sound came out of her mouth. She just cried and cried and finally she swam around the castle. Eventually she found the shore away from the castle and dragged herself to it.

She laid on her back dripping wet. She was no longer crying, but was weary with the day and night's adventures. She didn't notice some of the water flowing out of the river to the shore near her. She felt drained. Still she didn't notice the water moving upwards and forming into women who happened to have blue skin just like herself. Violet didn't move nor respond when the water nymphs spoke.

"Well, she does look a lot like Melanie, doesn't she?"

"Oh, yes, I agree. And her heart is broken, just like Melanie's was."

"Oh, poor Melanie. She died from a broken heart."

"I do hope, her daughter won't die from a broken heart."

Violet laid on the shore breathing and not thinking anything at all. One of the water nymphs strolled over to Violet and looked down on her.

"Now, dear, we all remember your mother well and we'd hate to see you die from a broken heart. So, do tell us what happened."

Violet didn't turn towards the water nymph who was standing over her, but answered quietly, "My friend is trapped in the castle by a bunch of vampires... why are there vampires?"

"Oh, it sounds bad. Dear, we want to help you and your friend. Wow, your skin is looking bluer."

"So?"

"So, you really are half water nymph."

"My uncle told me that. Why won't the vampires attack you?"

The water nymphs giggled.

"We can be more seductive than they. It's just plain jealousy."

"Plus we have permission to live here from Herbert Mineur." Ophelia walked towards Violet.

The other water nymphs stepped out of Ophelia's way.

"He's my grandfather."

Ophelia smiled. "Oh? He never mentioned having any grandchildren. Only a wife and two kids."

"I've never met him or his wife."

"Oh, then you must have been born after he came to live with us."

"He lives here?" Violet sat up.

"Yes, dear, he does. He doesn't like to come out when other people can see him."

"Oh! Because he's no longer human."

"Right. But he isn't a vampire either. If you stay long enough, you may meet him."

"I'd like that."

"He might like that too."

"Is he still a scientist?"

"Yes, and I am too. You're not seriously injured. Physically you're fine. Emotionally is another story. Care to tell us what happened?"

"Victor, a vampire, kidnapped my friend, Antoni. Victor won't let him go. Victor seems to think that by taking my friend prisoner, he can get to you water nymphs."

"Ah... by picking on a half human half water nymph, who was raised by humans. Victor doesn't know much."

"I suppose not."

"I'm Ophelia. What is your name?"

"Violet Nymphe Mineur."

Ophelia nodded. "Okay, ladies, how about we let Violet rest and go rescue Antoni?"

"Sounds like fun!" Many of the water nymphs got excited and formed back into water.

"We'll be back, dear. Just rest for now."

"Okay. Hey, Ophelia, aren't you Tabitha's mother?"

"Yes, I am."

"Does your partner live in that house over yonder?"

"Yes, he does. The house is technically off the preserve and is environmentally sound. It's very tiny by some human standards, but Steve doesn't care. He prefers to be outside as much as possible, but doesn't like to be disturbed when he's sleeping."

"Oh. I guess like my grandfather, he doesn't like to be seen when not in human form."

"No, he doesn't. He tends to use the cover of night for that form."

Violet watched Ophelia turn into water and leave with the other water nymphs. Violet hugged her legs and frowned.

## Chapter 15 Water Nymphs

Aboard the _Snowstorm_ , Captain Whitfield and his officers were sitting around the conference table with Bonnie and Clyde.

Captain Whitfield addressed everyone, "My officers and I have reviewed the contract terms and we want to start as soon as we can."

Clyde smiled. "Wonderful. Would you also be willing to have Bonnie, myself, and my niece aboard as well?"

"That won't be a problem. We'd be happy to take you around the solar system."

"Good. So, will the route be set or will there have to be changes made?" asked Bonnie.

Captain Whitfield smiled. "We will have to make adjustments as we go along. We may perhaps be able to add more ships to the fleet to help ease more passengers around the solar system with different destinations."

Clyde nodded. "That makes sense. We'll leave the route planning to you. You may also handle the additional ships."

"If we find anymore who are interested, we will send them to you and Clyde and I can focus on Mars."

"Wonderful. We'll get busy planning our next trip. Are there any other crews considering traveling around the solar system with regular passengers?"

"Yes, we have found five so far. There may be more who are considering it, but perhaps they want to wait and see how it goes for us before they join in."

The captain nodded. "Good. Clyde and Bonnie, we will let you know if and when more join us."

"We can't ask for more."

"Just let us know when you three are ready for a trip."

"We will do that."

It didn't take long for the water nymphs to travel to the castle and get into the dungeon where Antoni was sleeping. He tossed and turned on the cold, damp stone. He mumbled, but he never saw the water move into the dungeon. Nor did he see the water rise up and form into blue skinned women.

"Awww! Poor thing is having a nightmare."

"Let's wake him up!"

"Yeah, let's save him from the terror!"

Antoni stopped thrashing and opened his eyes to a sight he never expected to see. He sat up fast and muttered to himself, "No, no, this can't be. I must be going crazy."

"You're not going crazy. We're really here in front of you. We came on behalf of Violet."

"Violet..."

"Well, we've got to find a way to get him out of here."

"Yes, but how? He can't transform into water as we can."

"What?" asked a groggy Antoni.

"Will the bars get brittle and rust if we add lots of water to them?"

"They're steel, so no that won't work and we might drown him."

"Oh, there's got to be a way."

"Can you get the key to the lock?" inquired Antoni.

"Oh, of course! Let's go get that."

They quickly dissolved into water and moved away to search the nearby area for the key. One water nymph remained and she stared at Antoni.

"Hmm, you smell much like my Steve. Why is that?"

"I wouldn't know."

"I'm Ophelia and I'm Tabitha's mother. Have you heard of us?"

"No, should I have?"

"Well, we're certainly famous on Mars or is that just among the water nymphs..."

"I'm from Eris..."

"Oh, then never mind. Herbert will probably know why you smell much like Steve."

"Who's Herbert?"

"Violet's grandfather and a biologist."

"Oh." Antoni watched the water move away from his cell. "So, do all water nymphs transform between water and your blue humanoid form?"

"Certainly."

"Can Violet do that too?"

"I don't know. She's half human, which introduces a different set of genes."

"Can your daughter transform into water?"

"Yes, she can, but her dad, my Steve, is a werecat."

"Oh! I've heard of them. Many people consider them dangerous."

"Steve isn't dangerous. The most violent thing he does is eat fish."

"Oh." Antoni rubbed his head. "I guess those were just rumors."

"Yes, probably. Some were creatures are dangerous, but it just depends upon the person."

"Yes, I think you're right."

The water nymphs found a set of keys hanging on the wall near the inside entrance of the dungeon. They wasted no time in grabbing them and running back to Antoni's cell. They unlocked the door and let him out.

"Now what?"

"Well, we go after the vampires. They invaded the preserve and caused too many problems. We don't need attention drawn to our home either."

"Uhh, where do you live?"

"In the river right outside."

"Okay."

"Come, come, this way out of the dungeon."

They grabbed him by his arms and escorted him up to the main hall. By that time, the sun was setting. From his pocket, a chime sounded. He looked at his pocket and raised his eyebrows. The water nymphs kept climbing the stairs with him.

## Chapter 16 The Water Dragon Recognizes a Half Water Nymph

Violet rested on the shore of the wide river. She hugged her legs and bit her lip. She laid her head down on her knees. The water beast or dragon rose up out of the water. He studied her closely and made notes with his tablet computer.

"Well, if it isn't a half human, half water nymph!"

She jumped at the sound and stared at the creature. "Who are you? Your voice sounds familiar..."

"I'm the water beast or rather water dragon. I was once human. My name is still Herbert Mineur."

"Oh! You're my grandfather! I was told you died not too long after my grandmother died."

"Granddaughter? Which son? Oh, yes, that's what many people would say— that I died after Dory. In a way I did." He sighed.

"Frank Mineur was my father, but he died before I was born. My mother died not too long after I was born. Poor Uncle Clyde had to raise me with his business partner, Bonnie." She smiled. "I think they may have finally gotten together after all those years. Of course, they aren't willing to admit anything to me just yet."

"Ha, ha. Clyde turned out alright. How did Frank die?"

"He drank himself to death."

Herbert sighed. "Dory and I worried about him. We weren't sure he'd have a direction in his life. What do you want to do with your life?"

"I'm not sure, but right now I'm exploring Mars. I eventually want to see the rest of the solar system as well."

"Hmmm. Well, that's more than Frank ever displayed. He never seemed too interested in anything."

"Clyde tried to help him. He told me he gave my father a job."

"I take it, it didn't help."

She shook her head. "It's sad, but it sounds to me like there was nothing any of you could do to help him."

"Are you opposed to working?"

"No. But I do have a bit of a problem. I seem to make bad things happen. I've been known to turn on electronics without touching them. When I was a child, I could make my toys float around me."

Herbert studied Violet some more and scanned her with his tablet. "Ahhhh, now I see it. You have what some of the water nymphs have. Even Tabitha who defeated the demon Olivia had some of it. I can't say that I understand it. I wish I could help."

"Oh. You're still a scientist?"

"Yes, I am. I almost wish I met you sooner. I like talking with you."

She smiled. "Clyde told me you weren't good with children, so perhaps it's better that you didn't meet me when I was younger."

"It's true. I don't get babies, but Dory had a way with me. I couldn't say no."

Violet laughed.

"You remind me a little of her."

Captain Whitfield, Galley Master Douglas, and the doctor gathered round the conference table. They were in agreement to hire Mr. Winchester permanently. The captain pressed a button on the table. They waited for an answer that didn't come.

All three men stared at each other for several minutes.

"I sure hope he's alright," the galley master chimed in.

"Yes, I do hope Ms. Mineur is treating him well."

The captain stared at the wall. He knew from his own experience that young people could be hard to predict. "I do hope it's nothing serious and that he will contact us later on when he's not so busy."

"We can track him, if he has the communicator on him." The doctor looked directly at the captain.

The captain pressed another button. Soon they could see a dot showing Mr. Winchester's location on Mars.

"He's in the castle on the preserve. He may be in trouble."

"Should we go after him?" asked the galley master.

"Captain, the sun is setting and the rumors are vicious."

"Yes, I know about the rumors. But Herbert Mineur documented what he knew about the castle and the power plant."

"Then let's look at what proof he gave before we decide what to do."

Soon they were reading and listening to Herbert Mineur.

## Chapter 17 Dealing with Vampires

Violet was sleepy and she laid on the sand. Soon she was asleep. The sun was up, but that didn't matter. She was safe on the preserve.

She slept most of the day. When she finally woke up, it was late afternoon. She sat up and yawned.

"Hungry?" her grandfather asked.

"Yes."

"In that case—" He reached in the water and scooped out some plants and a fish. He set the lot in front of her.

She wasted no time in eating. When she was done she looked at the water dragon. "I need to get back to the castle to make sure Antoni is safe."

"Would you like some help?"

"Yes."

"I can give you a ride back to the castle without any problems. I cannot get inside because of my current size, but I can wait in the river and send in more water nymphs to help."

Violet nodded. "I think that will help. It seems the vampires don't like the water nymphs."

Herbert laughed. "No, why would they? The water nymphs can rival the vampires when it comes to vocal skills. Of course, the water nymphs are relatively harmless unless you don't like jokes."

She smiled. "Yes, I've heard a few tales of what the water nymphs can do."

"Just a moment and I'll let the water nymphs know what we are planning and I'll let you know what they say." He plunged into the water.

Violet waited on the bank for him to return. She watched the sun get closer to the horizon.

Herbert rose out of the water. "Good news. The water nymphs have agreed to help, even the men."

"The men?"

"Yeah, they aren't as well known to come out for little jokes as the women are, but that may also be because there weren't many women close by for them to show much interest."

Violet laughed. "I see."

"We don't have time to waste. The vampires will be up soon. Climb on to my back."

She did so and he swam through the wide river to the castle.

Violet stepped off her grandfather's back and onto the sand. She walked up to the castle and once again, the door opened to her. Herbert stayed in the water and watched the windows as much as he could.

The vampires were waking up one by one. Victor sat up and stepped out of his coffin. Ursula was standing next to him in a minute.

"Now can we have the prisoner?"

"Of course. After you."

They walked out of the sleeping chamber to the nearby dungeon. The light was dim and it was several minutes before they saw the door to the prisoner's cell was standing open, with the keys in the lock.

"What?"

"How?"

The two vampires screamed.

Everyone in the castle heard them. The sound even traveled to the nearby river.

Violet was in the great hall when she heard the vampires scream. She saw the water nymphs surrounding Antoni and ran over to them.

"Violet! We freed him!"

"Thank you! Are you alright, Antoni?"

"Better, now that I'm out of the dungeon, but confused by all these women."

"Oh, I guess we better give him some space." The water nymphs let go and backed away from him.

"Can you breathe better now?"

"Yes, thank you. Now, Violet, it's good to see you again." He smiled at her.

The water nymphs made funny faces at Violet and Antoni.

Violet laughed. "Water nymphs are as silly as their reputation."

"No way!"

Antoni laughed. "We should get out of here soon. The vampires will be here shortly."

As soon as he said that, the torches were lit and the small group was surrounded by vampires.

"Too late! We won't leave you, Violet and Antoni!" The water nymphs formed a circle around the two friends by linking their arms together.

The vampires bared their teeth. They growled at the water nymphs. The ladies wouldn't budge. Soon there was water flowing into the castle. It collected into puddles behind each vampire. The water formed into water nymphs— men and women.

"Hey, vampires! Guess who's here!"

The vampires turned around.

"Victor! It's more water nymphs!"

"I see them, Ursula!"

## Chapter 18 Freeing the Lost Ones

Bonnie and Clyde stepped into their office and sat down facing each other.

"Well, those negotiations went well."

Clyde smiled. "They certainly did. I know Violet will be happy to find out she's guaranteed passage anywhere in the solar system."

Bonnie nodded and smiled. "And what about us? When are we going to tour the solar system?"

"I don't know."

"We can bring the tablet computers along so we can still run the business while we're away from the office."

"I like the way you think."

"I know." She checked the desk computer. "So, we let the crew of _Snowstorm_ do their thing and then we will be able to start announcing the new service."

"Yep. Everything looks good so far. I've already put out notices that we are looking for more ships. And..." He swiped her fingers over the top of the desk. "And we have some responses so far. I'll send these interested parties over to _Snowstorm_ and let them take it from there."

"Good. I'm getting hungry. What do you say, we break to eat?"

"Sounds good to me. And afterwards?"

"Afterwards... yes, of course whatever you want."

Violet looked at the water nymphs. Next, she looked at Antoni. Finally she looked at the vampires. She even surveyed the castle. She asked, "Hey, would it hurt any water nymphs if Antoni and I used the torches to burn this place?"

Antoni's eyes darted all over, but kept wandering back to Violet.

"No, it wouldn't. We would just leave the castle as soon as possible and the vampires would die."

"Let's do it, Antoni."

"I'm with you, Violet," Antoni said.

"We'll keep the vampires distracted."

The water nymphs surrounding Violet and Antoni released their arms and ran towards the vampires. Violet and Antoni ran for the nearest torches and proceeded to set every flammable item in sight on fire. Chairs, couches, drapes, end tables, and coffee tables were soon burning.

The vampires screamed at the water nymphs. The water nymphs hissed and screamed back. The vampires bared their fangs. The water nymphs shot water at the vampires. No one wanted to sing on this night.

Violet and Antoni ran up the stairs to stay ahead of the fire and to keep the fire between them and the vampires. They torched more drapes and tapestries as they climbed the stairs. Smoke followed them and they coughed.

The water nymphs kept the vampires from leaving the castle via any doors or windows on the first floor and they also blocked the stairs. Smoke filled the castle and bellowed out of the windows. The water nymphs were as thorough as they could be to prevent the vampires from escaping. Soon the smoke and fire was so bad that the water nymphs jumped out of the windows. They turned back into water before they reached the river.

The smoke got so bad that Violet and Antoni had nowhere else to run. They stopped at the top of the stairs near an open window. They threw their torches down the stairs.

"Now what?" asked Antoni.

"We may have to jump."

"I can't swim."

"Oh, no, but the water nymphs and my grandfather are down there in the water."

Antoni looked at Violet. He looked down at the river and bit his lip.

"Herbert, Violet and Antoni need help!"

Herbert listened to the water nymphs and swam closer to the castle to find his granddaughter and her friend. He saw them standing at the open window. He extended himself over to the window. "Well, hurry up! Get on my back before you both die from smoke or fire or both."

"What?"

"It's my grandfather. Let's go." She grabbed Antoni's arm and pulled him out onto the water dragon's back.

Herbert swam back following the mass exodus of the water nymphs back to their home. The water dragon let Violet and Antoni walk down his tail to the beach.

"You two will be safe here. The rest of us will be in the water. If you need us, just send me a message, Violet."

"Okay."

Antoni pulled out his communicator. "Damn! The _Snowstorm_ crew contacted me."

"Then call them back."

"Okay." He contacted the ship.

Galley Master Douglas answered. "Well, Mr. Winchester, it's good to hear from you, even if it's several hours later."

"Sorry about that. I was caught up with a serious problem."

"No need to explain. We know you were in the castle and we learned what Herbert Mineur said about the place. Those were scary facts. Are you alright?"

"Yeah. I'm okay now."

"And how is Ms. Mineur?"

"She's—"

"I'm glad we're all okay now."

"Oh, it's on the news..."

"What?" both Antoni and Violet asked.

"The castle is on fire. What did you two do?"

"Long story, but things will be better. I'm sure Herbert Mineur will issue a report shortly," said Violet.

"Herbert Mineur is dead."

"Actually, my grandfather is alive and well, but he's not human anymore."

"Oh?"

"And everything in his official reports is true. If you could see me, I think you'd know that."

"Okay. I guess if I were no longer human, I wouldn't want other people to know." He paused. "Mr. Winchester, we have agreed to work for Ms. Mineur's uncle to provide transportation around the solar system. Will you be joining the crew permanently?"

"Well, I don't know..."

"We also will be giving Ms. Mineur, her uncle and his business partner rides."

"Oh?"

"Sounds good to me. I'd love to see the rest of the solar system," chimed in Violet.

"Okay, I'll take the job."

"Wonderful. I'll let the captain know. Please report when we're ready to leave. We're currently plotting the course we will take next."

Violet smiled.

## Chapter 19 Were Creatures

Bonnie and Clyde were lying in each others' arms. Both had their eyes closed as the sun was rising. Soon the light touched them and they opened their eyes. They looked at each other and smiled.

"I guess it's nearly time to have breakfast and check the transportation schedule." She sat up.

"No, don't get up." He held on to her. "Can't we stay in bed a while longer?"

"Clyde, where are we heading? We're business partners and now we have something more."

"Why don't we just get married?"

"What? Are you serious?"

"Yes. Well, why not? What objections do you have?"

She sighed. "None. I'd be happy to marry you."

"Wonderful." He pulled her close and they kissed.

Violet and Antoni were sitting on the preserved land. The water nymphs and Herbert were in the water. After the vampire incident, things were quiet.

"Violet, when do you think Eris will be like Mars, with people living on the surface without biodomes?"

"I don't know. My grandfather says Mars was easier to terraform because it was already somewhat like Earth to begin with. Eris isn't similar enough. It may always have domes on its surface."

"Your grandfather is a water dragon."

"Yes, he is."

"Then how did he have human children?"

Violet smiled. "He had children when he was human. Later, he was attacked by a vampire. Then he was given blood from a water nymph and a werecat. The donated blood prevented him from becoming a vampire."

"Oh."

"I know it's hard to understand. I think there are days, he still has trouble with it. He is a biologist, though. He puts his faith in the results of the standardized tests and measurable data."

"Was he one of the original colonists who later disappeared?"

"Yes."

The sun was setting and they didn't move. They had no reason to get indoors. It wasn't even chilly for either one.

Antoni felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. He jerked and looked around. "We're being watched."

Violet looked around. "By whom? I don't see anyone."

A howl and scream were heard.

"What?" She jumped.

"I think they're were creatures."

"Antoni, how can you be sure of that?"

"You told me Mars doesn't have large non-human animals and I can just feel it. I'm sorry I can't explain the second part."

"Then why am I not sensing them? I'm half water nymph."

"I don't know. Can you get a hold of your grandfather?"

"Yes, unless he's sleeping."

"Good, we might need his help. I doubt these were creatures would like to see a water dragon."

The were creatures came closer, slowly growling as they carefully watched Violet and Antoni.

## Chapter 20 Tabitha Returns

Violet tapped the side of her glasses and wasted no time contacting her grandfather. He didn't answer. "Grandfather, this is Violet. Antoni and I are being watched by large animals whom he thinks are were creatures. I can hear them, but I can't see them well. He's not sure how he knows they're were creatures. Please wake up." She pressed the side of her glasses again and sighed.

"Oh, that doesn't sound good..."

"He must be sleeping."

"Must be." He scanned the area around them. "Someone is walking towards the preserve."

"At this time of night? Who is it? I can't see them."

"I don't know. One of the water nymphs back from pulling a prank?"

"Probably." He watched more closely. "She seems like she might be a were creature or even a water nymph like you."

"A half water nymph, half were creature?" Violet raised her eyebrows.

"Perhaps. Wait, is it Tabitha? Ophelia told me about her daughter and her partner is a werecat."

"Wait, I can see her light blue skin now. She is a water nymph!" She let out a big sigh.

The were creatures howled again. Violet and Antoni moved their eyes in the direction of the sound.

Tabitha had just came home from work. The sun had set hours ago. It was late, but she didn't care. She knew Mars and grew up near the preserved river land. She had no reason to be afraid at night. She packed her few things and put them in her backpack.

She set out. The street lights were on all over the city. She smiled as she left and strolled to the preserve. She smiled knowing she would be able to see her parents again and no one would miss her in the city for a few days.

It was peaceful and uneventful until she sensed some were creatures. She saw them near two people sitting on the sand near the river. She tapped her watch computer to alert her parents. She didn't wait for an answer.

She carefully walked closer to the two sitting near the river and avoided the were creatures. "Do you two need help?"

Violet and Antoni looked at the newcomer.

"Can you see the were creatures?" asked Violet.

"Yes, I can see them and I can sense them."

Antoni's eyes got big. "I can, too. How is that you can?"

"My father is a werecat."

"Oh."

"You wouldn't happen to be a were creature, too, would you?"

"What? Me? My parents never said anything about were creatures in the family."

"And you... You're half water nymph."

"Yes, I am."

"Wait, are you Herbert Mineur's granddaughter?"

"Yes. I just sent him a message."

"Good. Then he should be waking up soon." Tabitha checked her watch. "My parents will be here shortly."

"So, you're Tabitha... the other half water nymph."

"Yes, I am. Pleased to meet you, Violet." Tabitha smiled.

Violet smiled back.

## Chapter 21 Steve & Ophelia

Ophelia and Steve were in their house cuddling in their bed, when they received the message from their daughter.

Steve reached for his tablet. "You'd think we wouldn't be bother this time of night."

Ophelia smiled. "It's probably Tabitha telling us she's on her way to the house to make sure we're both dressed when she arrives."

"Yeah, she would do that." He read the message. "She is nearby, but she says she is with two young people who are sitting near the river and there are were creatures nearby. She thinks they're hostile."

"We better go and tell the other water nymphs."

"And Herbert." Steve sent a message to Herbert and got up.

Ophelia got dressed and Steve turned into a werecat before leaving the house.

Herbert opened his eyes. His water proof tablet was beeping. He checked it and found messages from Violet, Steve and Ophelia. "Hey, water nymphs! My granddaughter and her friend are in trouble. Let's go help them out. This time it's hostile were creatures." He rose to the surface.

Some water nymphs followed him. They formed into their humanoid shapes.

The were creatures stood their ground.

Herbert scanned them. "I know who you are. You are the ones responsible for the murders of several colonists who used to work at the power plant. Now you come to threaten my own granddaughter and her friend."

The were creatures snarled, but stepped back.

Steve and Ophelia ran to the scene. Soon they were there surrounding the hostile were creatures with the water nymphs.

The were creatures were trapped. They looked at each other and at the water nymphs, werecat, and the water dragon.

Violet and Antoni stood up. The water nymphs surrounded them.

The were creatures snarled, howled or screamed. They moved to attack.

Steve caught the other werecat unaware. The water nymphs turned to liquid and surrounded the werewolf.

Tabitha, Antoni, and Violet were pushed into the river. Violet and Tabitha were relaxed as they went down. Antoni made faces and bit his lip. His eyes were wide.

Tabitha and Violet saw Antoni and grabbed his arms. They swam back up to the surface with him. They didn't let go until he was safe on the sand again.

The hostile were creatures were dead. Steve was bloody, but Ophelia was tending to him. Many of the water nymphs were going back in the river. Violet sat down next to Antoni, who was breathing hard.

"Mom, Dad, are you two alright?"

Ophelia finished cleaning her partner's wounds. "Yes, we're both okay. I see you got to safety."

Tabitha nodded.

Jain and Theo stayed out of the water to talk to Herbert.

"Well, once again we saved the colony, Herbert."

"Yes, Jain, although the colonists may not know about this."

On the shore Antoni and Violet looked towards Herbert and Jain.

"Wow, I take it that Jain became a water nymph and that's why she's considered missing."

Jain smiled at her. "Yep. Herbert helped with my transformation. The best part is that I was able to stay with Theo."

Theo smiled at her.

Violet looked at everyone. "I've heard about you from my grandfather's memoirs and now we're all together."

Tabitha smiled as the sun was rising. "It's nice to know I'm not the only half water nymph in existence."

Violet smiled. "Yeah, it's sometimes rough to look so radically different from most humans."

"Weren't you raised by your uncle because both of your parents died?"

"Yeah, and his business partner, Bonnie."

"Bonnie and Clyde died with his and her bullet holes," said Antoni.

Violet laughed. "That's an old Earth legend."

Herbert chimed in, "Actually it's true. Back in the American West there was a couple named Bonnie and Clyde who were criminals. They did die from bullet wounds."

"Uh, Herbert, Violet and I mentioned to one of my crew members that you're still alive, but no longer human."

"Oh, you did?"

"Yeah, he did. We figured you'd make an official report about what happened at the castle."

"I could do that. Thanks to Steve, we have an internet connection here. I can get started on that report and this one too."

"What's wrong, grandfather?"

"I think I want Clyde to know I'm alive before I send the reports out."

"No problem." Violet smiled.

## Chapter 22 Uncle Clyde

Bonnie was sitting in the living room looking at dresses on her tablet computer. Clyde was sitting next to her checking out nearby venues.

"Oh, I found it!"

Clyde looked at her tablet. "Ah, I like that one. Getting a tux to go with that will be easy."

"Getting a tux is easy period. Any luck finding a decent venue?"

"No. Who are we inviting to our wedding?"

"I thought we'd invite Violet, Violet's friend, Antoni, and the crew of the _Snowstorm_ perhaps..."

"Hmm... Why don't we just have the wedding on the preserve where the water nymphs live?"

She looked at him and smiled. "That sounds like a great idea. The water nymphs are technically a part of the family."

He nodded. "That's what I'm thinking. I don't know about having a big wedding as it is."

"Okay. We'll have the wedding next to the river. Sounds great."

"Now we need someone to perform the ceremony and find the rings."

"I'll look for the rings."

"Okay."

"What about these rings?"

Clyde looked at them. "Yes, I like those."

"Good. I love them. Did you find someone?"

"Yes, we just need to set a date."

"Wonderful. Now what about a reception?"

"Hmm, I don't know. Haven't we done enough for today?"

"Oh, perhaps we have. Time for some play?"

He put the tablet down and smiled at her. "Yes, it is."

Violet activated her tiny computer. Soon she could see Uncle Clyde on her lenses. "Hi, Uncle Clyde!"

"Hi, Violet. It's good to hear from you. I just heard the news. Are you alright?"

"Yes, everything is okay now. The water nymphs and your father are safe."

"I'm glad the water nymphs are safe. Wait, you said my father is safe?"

"Yeah. He's not human anymore, but very much alive. Do you want to say hi to him?"

"I haven't seen him in years. What's he look like?"

"Just a second. Hey, Grandfather! Clyde wants to see you."

Herbert rose out of the water. "I'm not sure this is a good idea."

"Oh, come on. I think he can take it."

"Fine. Let him see me."

Violet made a slight adjustment.

Clyde's mouth gaped. "What? Surely this is a joke?"

"No, son, it's not a joke. I'm a water beast."

"Or a water dragon," interjected Violet.

"How have you been Clyde? I know I haven't seen you since your mother died." Herbert sighed.

"I've had quite a life, Dad. I had to raise Violet and the business has been doing well."

"I didn't worry about you because I knew you had something to do with your life. If I remember right, you were setting up mass transit on Mars?"

"Yes, I have done that and anyone can get anywhere on the planet. We even offer private transportation for those who are willing to pay more."

"Good. I'm sure your services are very much appreciated."

"Yep. I can tell you the service works well. I've never had any trouble getting around," Violet added.

Clyde smiled. "It helps when you don't have to pay, doesn't it?"

Violet laughed. "I wouldn't mind paying, but you insisted I had a free card so no one would charge me for using any of the services."

Clyde paused. "I'm curious about the young man who's your friend. Is there anything you want to tell me about him?"

"Huh? We're friends. I'm not interested in anything else right now. I'm still exploring Mars."

"Oh, okay. I'm sorry. I—"

"You couldn't help it. So, how's it going between you and Bonnie?"

"Well, since you mentioned it, we're getting married."

"Really? After all this time..." Violet smiled.

"Son, you're getting married?"

"Yes."

"About time you two admitted your relationship."

Clyde smiled. "I'm glad you approve, Violet. You got any advice for me, Dad?"

"Advice? Let her win. It's better to let her be happy. You can't be selfish and happily married at the same time."

"Oh, is that how mom had her way with you?"

"Yeah, so what? She was happy and I was happy to go home and stay with her. Clyde, you turned out alright."

"I take it, you're not fond of children, Grandfather?"

"No, but at least they grow up."

## Chapter 23 Now What?

Clyde and Bonnie stood still in their dressy clothes. They looked around. They checked their watches. They glanced at each other and at Violet. They watched the _Snowstorm_ crew.

Violet was dressed up as well. She was smiling. Antoni and the _Snowstorm_ officers wore their dress uniforms.

Violet was the one who saw the Justice of the Peace arrive. She said nothing as she gave her uncle a funny face.

He laughed. Bonnie saw the funny faces Violet made and she laughed too. Soon the other guests were laughing too.

The Justice of the Peace smiled. "I see everyone is ready for me."

The wedding party waited by the river. Herbert rose up out of the water and some water nymphs followed suit. Violet and Antoni stood near the happy couple as witnesses.

It was all over within a matter of minutes.

As Clyde and Bonnie kissed, the water nymphs went crazy. They splashed the couple and everyone else. There was lots of laughter all around.

Herbert just shook his head and sighed. "It figures you water nymphs would pull something like this at my son's wedding!"

Violet activated her little computer and played some music the couple had picked out. Everyone began dancing. Even the water dragon danced in the water.

Clyde and Bonnie danced near Violet and Antoni.

"So, Violet, what plans do have now?" asked Clyde.

"I think I want to visit Earth."

"Okay. I think I can arrange for you to go to Earth."

Captain Whitfield smiled. "We'll happily escort Ms. Mineur to Earth."

"Good."

"What are you and Bonnie going to do?" asked Violet.

"We're taking a tour of the solar system for our honeymoon."

"Sounds like fun. I won't wait up for you. So, don't wait up for me."

Bonnie laughed. "We won't, dear."

Antoni raised his eyebrows. "How are Bonnie and Clyde going to tour the solar system if we're taking Violet to Earth?"

"Oh, the _Valiant_ has signed up. They can take that ship. Good crew."

Bonnie smiled. "I'm glad to hear that."

"The captain and I go way back."

Galley Master Douglas laughed. "They're old rivals. They've started their old argument again."

Captain Whitfield chuckled. "Well, some things never change."

Everyone laughed.
