The Omicron Matter – Aftermath – Regrouping and New Strategies

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A new entry in the Omicron Matter  – Aftermath. Winifred Stanhope and Findley Brown continue their long slow journey the Guild Headquarters.  The information from Tau Ceti seems to travel little faster. The Guild Master they travel with has new information but it feels dated even as the group receives. Meanwhile Alfred arranges a tour of the cultural sites of their latest stop.

Author’s note

I have been sick for a few days so I missed Monday’s post.  My apologies.  As we are wrapping things, such a review would not be complete without a view to what Winifred and Findley are up to.  Right now they are moving slowly (compared to the Omicron equipped ships) across the galaxy.  Alfred continues to be a fun character to write. So much refinement  in the man and he is restricted to playing a major domo to a serious domitrix.  One suspects his weekly breaks kept him from cynicism while he served in London.

Today’s featured blog is not about writing so much as about inspiration.  The Daily Quote is a inspirational blog. Yes it features quote however they are organized differently. Rather than a quote day, Alchemist features the author of quotes and lists several useful quotes from the author.  Alchemist also provides a background of the author.  In addition to a compendium of quotable authors, Alchemist also provides pages on self help and inspiration.  As Self Help and Inspirational blogs go, I find Alchemist’s work very helpful.

Guild Master’s Office

Alfred sat behind Winfred and Findley as they faced Woochu Zouz, the Guild Master on their transportation. The Arkanian sat behind his desk toying with a knife or blade of some sort. He leaned back and said, “It seems the Tymbrimi of Juthjath are resisting turning over the Uycarrans and any humans. The Tymbrimi managed to disable a cruiser and have disrupted light fighter operations.”
Winifred exercised her hand and looked at it as it went through the motions, “I thought the Guild was the only meaningful power in the galaxy. One planet holds off your fleet?”
Zouz frowned. “It is not so easy if they resist,Miss Stanhope. Surely even your primitive Queen has discovered this.”
Winifred frowned this time and set her hand on her lap, “I suppose she has. We prevailed in the end and the resistance was punished severely.”
“Then you understand the Guild. The light fighters are only one means of bringing pressure to bear. The other methods are more…severe and I, suspect the Admiral was hoping for a bit of common sense before he resorted to destroying cities.” He leaned forward, “The Tymbrimi will soon see the foolishness of their resistance to our reasonable demands.”
Findley asked, “What about the other races? Their allies?”
The Guild Master laughed, “What of them? None will arrive in time to do anything. The Tymbrimi will have handed over the Uycarrans or the planet will be a uninhabitable husk long before any help arrives. Even if they had access to FTL ships it will still take weeks for them to arrive and they can’t muster a force to challenge a Guild fleet.”
Alfred bit his lip and began cleaning his fingernails with a knife. He thought Findley had a very good question and the Guild was foolish to dismiss the concern. He could see Findley thought the same. Winfred put a staying hand on Findley’s knee preventing any unwanted outburst. “Thank you for the update, Woochu. I am sorry to hear about the cruiser, but I am sure the Guild knows best how to handle its little rebellions.”
Zouz grunted, “My understanding is that Admiral Borat has been given complete authority. If they continue to resist, their planet will become dust under their feet.”
Winfred returned her hands to her lap, “Is there anything further? I had hoped for a bit of relaxation and time to shop before we head off to the next leg.”
Zouz returned to his papers on the desk, “No, There is nothing further. Take Sairu Vuq if you venture off the ship. News is not looking favorably on humans right now.”
Winfred smiled thinly, “I hope you will keep us informed of any developments around the new drives.”
Zouz smiled, “I recognize your concern, Miss Stanhope. There is no evidence that these …restricted drives are in use yet. If any public information comes to my attention, I will certainly take whatever advice you could hope to provide.”
Alfred winced at the patronization. Winifred pursed her lips and then said, “Then I will indulge in what exploring you and Sairu Vuq will allow.” She got up, Findley and Alfred followed suit.
Zouz also got up and said, “Certainly. The station is said to be quite exotic in places…be careful. Can I ask your presence at dinner? There is a small set of Guild delegates who would like to meet you and Mr. Brown.”
Winifred smiled and bowed her head slightly, “We shall be honored.”
Zouz smiled and took her hand and gave it a slight pat, “I know you will enchant them.” He straightened and smoothed his tunic, “I will have my secretary send invitations and recommended dress.”
Findley offered his elbow who took it and Alfred followed the pair out the door. They were met by Sairu Vuq who joined Alfred for the walk back to the ship quarters.

Walking to Quarters

As they walked back through the station to the ship, Alfred made conversation with Sairu Vuq, “What are the sites to be seen in this station?”
Vuq said, “The observation deck provides an excellent view of the ringed planet and its multiple gas storms. As this is a central station between several major planets, the restaurants and bars are varied and excellent. Almost any choice will be an excellent experience.” He raised his eyebrow, “And the more salacious sites are legend, but I suspect Miss Stanhope and Mr. Brown already know that.”
Alfred scratched his beard, “That is their nature.” He looked at the mottled Elohim, “That all seems to be targeted at the passing sailor; excuse me, targeted at passing travelers. You seem a man of more refined taste.” Vuq nodded. Alfred continued, “Surely there must be some culture, some history on this station one can view. Except for the lighting and staff, restaurants and bordellos are little different here than they are in London.”
Vuq looked at him and then said, “There is a temple of Pakila that has remarkable art. It is full of emotion and of the pathos of life. It is not often viewed as access is …restricted.”
“And yet you know of its existence and nature.”
“I am a…follower …for want of better word, of Pavitr, a related deity. I have been granted access to the temple. The art is meant for reflection and enlightenment. “
Alfred smiled, “As it is on Earth, so it is in heaven. Earth temples hold some of the best art in my world.” He put his hands behind his back, “It is remarkable that this is such a universal practice. In my world I think it is to lure the heathen in for potential conversion.”
Vuq watched an approaching group but relaxed as they passed, “Have you no creed, Redman?”
Alfred shrugged, “I am a ruthless and self serving man. If God exists, I will have much to answer for. On the other hand, I question the authority of a deity that allows such cruelty as I have seen and participated in.” He sniffed, “I have no urgent need to have questions answered.”
Vuq smiled thinly, “Perhaps you have not met the right deity.” He looked forward, “Before we leave the station, I shall take you to a mediation time at the temple of Pakila. Perhaps you will be moved.”
Alfred smiled, “Moved, I have no doubt. Converted is another matter.”

The Omicron Matter – Dispatches from the Team – Loyalty is Overrated II

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A new entry in the Omicron Matter. This is the last scene Dispatches from the Team. Winifred Stanhope, Findley Brown and Alfred Redman have been escorted to the Guild Ship captain. Once there, he informs him of the edict to restrict humans. After some protest, the captain explains that he won’t be restricting them on the ship or handing them over for incarceration. However, for their own safety and convenience, they can’t leave the ship on stops.

Author’s Note

One wonders how much freedom Edward Snowden has in Moscow. While it is true that he leaked US documents, he is an ideological purist – he would just as likely leak Russian documents. And he would be at risk on the street from other reprisals as information comes to light.

I am furiously (or should be furiously) typing away for the next chapter. I have a lot written, but I still need to type it and I need to find a way to wrap up the next chapter as well.

Thanks for your support. Happy Memorial Day weekend and thanks for your support.

Loyalty is Overrated

A deep voice came from a large light blue, human form. “Thank you yeoman Vuq. Please wait outside the door”. The man had very pale hair and wore a gray and black tunic. He was standing behind a large clear table that had papers as well as consoles. He was looking out a window at the space port activity. Winifred entered the room and took a seat immediately opposite Woochu Zouz. Brown took another chair next to the table. Alfred positioned himself by the door as it closed. Zouz turned to show that his eyes were nearly as pale as his hair. He sat in the working chair behind the desk.
Winifred spoke, “Are we in trouble, Woochu?”
Zouz turned around and then began to drum his arm with his fingers, “You personally? No. But Morgaine has escalated matters.”
Winifred smirked, “Surely this isn’t a surprise. I have been telling you about her leanings and dealings since Tau Ceti.”
Zouz frowned and folded his hands behind his back. “Not all of us are surprised. However, a Guild agent caught her and human companions at one of her old haunts. The agent was supposed to detain them all.”
Winifred looked at her hand and practiced some motions as she said, “But he failed.”
Zouz put his hands out, “There is evidence of collusion with locals. But we don’t know for sure because the local population scattered to the desert and the agent in question died in an explosion. Regardless, when Morgaine left she shot at a Guild ship and severely damaged it before disappearing.”
Alfred kept his expression neutral. Brown snorted. Winfred closed her hand into a fist, “And someone is surprised by this behavior after my information?”
Zouz frowned at her and then said, “The Guild agent at the planet had a reputation for overestimating his prowess and underestimating others.” He shrugged, “He was someone’s son. That he was incompetent is irrelevant now that he is dead.” Hhe sat at the desk and leaned forward. “Tau Ceti station has issued an edict in response. All humans are to be detained and sent for reeducation.”
Brown leaned forward, “You would do that to us? We’re helping you!”
Redman said loudly, “Shut up Findley. Let him finish.” Brown grumbled but sat back down.
Zouz nodded at Alfred and continued, “I know you’re helping us and so does everyone else on this ship. Tau Ceti isn’t so sure. We have many stops ahead and everyone has been bombarded by how barbaric humans are. The edict is a natural progression. ”
Alfred started filing his nails, “So rather than trying to explain our freedom of movement at every stop, we need to stay under wraps until our particular situation can be made clear.”
Woochu Zouz practically sighed in relief, “Exactly. The press on this edict is massive. And it follows months of an information campaign on your backward ways.” Brown grumbled but said nothing.
Winifred eyed Zouz narrowly, “My cooperation on the drives is going to be severely hampered if I am treated like a prisoner. I have spent most of the last year locked up or stuck on this ship. I had counted on these stops to see some culture and experience…the local flair.” Alfred rolled his eyes.
Zouz put his hands out, “Miss Stanhope, Winifred I want your satisfaction with this trip. But I have concerns for your safety as well. If you were walking about, the local security would detain you and we would be days fighting bureaucracy getting you and Mr. Brown free. Worse, some vigilant local might take matters in his or her own hands and shoot you on the spot. Our campaign has been rather lurid about human habits.”
Winifred sighed dramatically, “I had been looking forward to a bit of shopping and indulging in the local …atmosphere.”
Zouz said, “We can accommodate just about anything Miss Stanhope.” Alfred smiled. That promise would likely be sorely tested. Zouz continued, “Just make your requests known to Sairu Vuq he will be your guard until we clear your status up.”
Winifred said, “I suppose a bit of hardship for a good cause is only reasonable.” And then stood.
Zouz stood and motioned to the door, “I appreciate your patience and understanding. Anything you want. Vuq will see to your needs.” Alfred wondered how that was going to work out.

The Omicron Matter – Dispatches from the Team – Loyalty is Overrated

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A new entry in the Omicron Matter – Dispatches from the Team. Winifred Stanhope, Findley Brown, and Alfred Redman are on their way to the Guild Headquarters. The journey is taking weeks and involves stops along the way. Winifred, Findley and Alfred are passing the time in the gym when an announcement arrives.

Author’s Note

This is the final scene of this chapter. I have one more section of the scene and then a new chapter will be started. I posted the concluding scene of A Final Commitment with Rachael, Neville and John Smith on Monday but very few people saw it. You might want to take a look, I think I did a good job.

Thanks for your support and look for more on Friday.

Loyalty is Overrated

Alfred Redman set the weights down and watched Winifred Stanhope and Findley Brown trade blows in their fencing practice. Brown was not her match, but no one else on the ship was close. Brown parried Winifred’s attack and then tried his own thrust. She easily knocked aside his blade with her metallic hand, stepped forward and put the tip on his chest. “Point.”
Brown tore off his face mask in a fury. “That shouldn’t count. You used your damned metal hand to push aside a blade.”
Winifred pursed her lips saying, “Really Findley. That sounds childish and petty in more ways than I can count.” She took off her own mask and said, “Put more effort into your attacks. And less into your arguments. “
Brown growled and charged. Before Alfred realized what he was doing, Findley was on Winifred. But Winifred had caught his practice blade in her hand and stopped its motion. This caused Brown to stumble. She brought her other hand down on his head and he dropped to the floor. She twisted his arm behind his back and leaned down, “You need practice at this as well.” She tightened her grip and he yelped, “Shall we have a little round of hand to hand as well? Or are you done with your tantrum?”
Brown grunted and then his body relaxed. Alfred thought the boy is a fool who will be killed quickly if he keeps that attitude. The gym door opened and in walked an Elomin. His face was bright red with a black pattern. Covering his head were a dozen or so inch long horns. The bright red and black pattern skin was contrasted by a drab a gray robe style tunic that came down to his legs. His pants were also loose and gray. The Elomin nodded to Alfred but addressed Winifred, “Hello Miss Stanhope. Sairu Vuq here. And I am passing a message from Guild Master Woochu Zouz. He requests your immediate presence.”
Winifred let Brown go with a little shove. “We will freshen up and be there shortly.”
The guard took a resting position, “Guild Master Zouz is aware of your exercises. Regardless, he wants to see you now.” He glanced at Alfred and said, “All three of you.”
Alfred kept his face straight but gave a slight nod. He tossed a towel to Winifred, picked up one of his own and one for Findley Brown. He came up to Brown and said, “I can help you make better attacks, but your temper will be the death of you.” Brown grunted and snatched the towel out of his hand.
Each cleaned the worst of the sweat and grime off, dried off and drank some water. Winifred nodded to Brown and offered her arm. The two headed out the door. Alfred trailed walking with the guard, Sairu Vuq. Alfred asked, “I thought we were going to a bit of leave.”
Vuq said, “We will be leaving sooner than expected. Fueling is being finished faster. We still need provisions.” He looked at Alfred and said, “I believe Guild Master Zouz wants to discuss recent developments with Miss Stanhope before we proceed.” Alfred raised an eyebrow but said nothing. Vuq looked forward, “I only know that much and suspect you will know more than me after discussion with Guild Master Zouz.”
Alfred stroked his mustache and said, “Thank you. One prefers any information going into a conversation with a Guild master.” The Elohim nodded. Alfred said, “I expect I could use some lunch after this meeting. Can you recommend a place?”
Vuq smiled a toothy grin and said, “I know an excellent soup place. But it is very hard to find. I can take you there after you freshen up a bit.” They arrived at the Guild Master’s quarters. Vuq opened the door revealing an expansive office for such a small ship.

The Omicron Matter – A Meeting of Friends – The Two Oldest Professions

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A new entry in the Omicron Matter – A Meeting of Friends. Winifred Stanhope and Findley Brown will accompany the Guild Master to his soiree. Stanhope and Brown will host an after party get together with the Guild Master. Alfred makes a meal and prepares Winifred’s latest diversion for the night ahead. The small Tymbrimi is far more resilient than Alfred imagined.

Author’s note

This is the last entry for the chapter. Unfortunately, I have not finished writing the next chapter. I am about 3/4 done. The good news is that is moving along nicely now.

Thank you for your support.  Look for more postings soon.

The Two Oldest Professions

Winifred and Findley finally left for the Guild Master’s dinner party. Winifred was wearing a shockingly flimsy dress that was fashionable on the station. Findley settled for a standard unisuit. They would be brining the Guild Master back after dinner. Alfred had asked if an additional entertainer would be necessary, but Winifred said the one should be plenty.
Alfred prepared a meal tray and headed to the bedroom in the suite. Inside was a green haired Tymbrimi named Anya Silverrain. She was wearing a thin negligee that left little to the imagination. At the base of her neck was a mark indicating she had been collared once. She turned to face Alfred. He kept his face straight despite her lack of modesty. “You will want to eat up. They are bringing home the Guild Master.”
She smirked, “I was told he was a regular. A bonus for me.”
Alfred set the table down on a side table. He poured himself some tea and sat on a chair opposite the Tymbrimi entertainer. Anya served herself some of the soup and took a bit of bread and a healthy serving of water and then sat on the settee opposite Alfred and chewed on the bread. Alfred said, “We have been invited to the Central Guild Hall with the next courier. We leave in two weeks. Winifred is finding the delays and time lag …frustrating.”
Anya snorted, “She will be taking the Guild’s fastest transport and she is annoyed with its lack of speed.”
Alfred shrugged, “I don’t know how much you know, but she has experienced faster.”
Anya squinted at him saying, “I hear rumors.” She waved away the thought and said, “The Guild isn’t know for it’s speed or it’s openness to new ideas. I imagine she finds that frustrating.”
Alfred leaned back and settled himself in the chair,”Immensely. She has a habit of taking frustration out on her …assistants. We should work out a means for me to know that you are in trouble.”
Anya laughed, “You are worried about me! How sweet.” She hardened, “I’ve talked with the others about your pair. I have no illusions. I was indentured to the Mollocots for 3 years.” Her eyes seemed to stare into the distance and then refocus, “Your Stanhope is pedestrian and predictable. Mr. Brown is more of a worry, but I expect he will be on a short line with the Guild Master around.”
Alfred sipped his tea, “It would hardly due to embarrass the Guild Master.”
She smiled thinly, ”And I will gain my own leverage tonight. You have information for me?”
Alfred pulled out a small cube and placed it on the settee next to her. She held it for a moment and then the cube disappeared into some hidden fold he could not imagine. “I trust that will be delivered quickly. Things are changing quickly.”
She took some soup and drink a large swallow of water, “My sisters haven’t slipped up yet. If Guild habits stay the same, I should have your message sent and in the cousins hands in a matter of days.”
Alfred sipped his tea and said, “You Tymbrimi have such complex family relations.”
Anya smirked, “We like to think we simplified something else everyone made complicated.”
Alfred stood and said, “If you are in trouble, stare at that corner of the room. I will settle matters quickly.”
Anya giggled, “Iti is right. You are appealing. Maybe the three of us can meet after this is over.”
Alfred smiled, bowed and left the room hoping his blush was not too obvious.

The Omicron Matter – Fallout and Recoveries – Shopping for Necessities

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A new entry in the Omicron Matter – Fallout and Recoveries. Winifred Stanhope and Findley Brown have been settled into a local apartment. Alfred is off shopping for the things that will make that apartment habitable as well as food for meals.  He just so happens to go to “Kaum Goods and Services” to meet his needs.

For those who are new to the Omicron Matter, the book home page is a good place to start.

Author’s Note

Would aliens know what a dead drop is? How does one pass notes when paper isn’t used?  All those spy novels I’ve read in the past simply fail me in these circumstances.

Friday we will finish this chapter. The next one is typed and edited. It is very long and may become multiple chapters.  I may also need to consider what is important

Thanks for you support. Look for more on Friday

Shopping for Necessities

The Guild Office had given Winifred and Brown suites at the local cultural liaison office. The purported reason was to succor wayward refugees. The façade amused and annoyed Alfred, but that was the way of such matters – appearances were to be kept. He scoffed at the idea that they would be paid to become cultural ambassadors from Earth. They were certainly no empathetic creatures to be pitied and paraded at parties, and yet that is what would be happening for the next couple months. It would take that long for the local office to get orders from the Guild home. The local wanted them close and Winifred was shrewd enough to demand money while they waited. Until she had a fashionable wardrobe and decent food, the local functionaries would get nothing. She revealed just enough to convince the local Guild Master he needed her information.  So they were housed at a local flat and paid as “cultural ambassadors.”  He returned to his former duties – shopping, tidying the apartment, and preparing meals. All of which drew him to this particular shop.

When he entered, he could see the Kaum Legit Clio Olo was working with another customer. The Kaum Legit flashed red and yellow briefly and then returned to a normal pale grey green. Kaum Legit must be poor poker players he thought. Alfred went to a station and began filling his order of goods. The Menanggung clerk attending him was jittery with nerves but managed to help Alfred complete an order despite shaky hands.  The clerk even suggested additional useful items.  Alfred wrapped up saying, “This has been remarkably easy. What is your name so that I can work with you again?”

The Menanggung replied, “Thlogh Ghu good sir.” He smoothed his hair a bit feeling a little more relaxed. “I am pleased you found my service acceptable.”

Alfred bowed and said, “Alfred Redman.”

Thlogh paused and then said, “Now I just need to get approval to accept your voucher.”

Alfred smiled broadly, “Of course you do.” He handed over the papers from the Guild office and a note underneath the papers.  The clerk eyes widened for a moment and said, “I will be a moment.”

Alfred shook his head. Right now, surprise and shock might be acceptable. He doubted the Guild suspected anything even if Winifred had her doubts. But as the nature of her knowledge became known, that would change.  The clerks of “Kaum Goods and Services” and Clio Olo had better get used to seeing him.  After a few moments the clerk returned saying, “Everything is in order Mr. Redman. Your next visit should be much smoother.”

Alfred rose and bowed slightly, “I am sure it will be,” and hoped the words were true.