FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Virtually Real Part 25: Furry Station One

Returning Characters:

Prowl-Ar

Kyle

Shock

Frost

Mahan

Tank

Tuft

Janelle Redfield

Nichole Redfield

Jennifer Steele

Even though it had been half an hour I doubted Shock had done much to "clean" his studio. He was likely still attempting to dump his history and clear his cache files. I knocked on the door. "Shock, it's only me, can I come in?" I didn't get an answer. I face palmed as I remembered the studio was completely sound proofed. "Mahan, can you ask Shock if I can enter, please?"

The door opened slightly. "Is it just you?" He asked.

"Yes, I need to talk to you about moving your studio. Oh, and I should point out that you can't erase anything since Mahan backs it all up. However, only the two of you can access your private files so you don't have to worry about any of us seeing something you don't want us to see."

"Oh, I didn't realize that. Not that I have a problem with you and Kyle seeing anything, but with Frost still being a kid, you know. Still, even if he can't access my files, a few of my posters are not work safe. I just make sure they're not where the camera can see them. Wait, you want me to move my studio?" He asked in surprise.

"Yeah. Frost is going to need a bedroom. I'm certainly not letting him sleep in our room. I can't move our room because of the merge system set up above the bridge and my vault is built directly into the super-structure. There is barely enough room for our bathroom. Behind our bedroom is the VR chamber. Then there’s the living area. That leaves your studio and the kitchen areas that can be moved. However, that opens up the whole deck for expansion."

"Of course you wouldn't risk disturbing Kyle's kitchen." Shock said sarcastically.

"That's where you're wrong. Mahan remove all artificial walls on this floor excluding those separating . . . No, remove all artificial walls." I walked into the bedroom area. “I want a wall here separating the bedroom and the bathroom. Before you say anything I now it will be right against the right side of the Merge pod. I'll re-do the expanded bathroom later." I walked over to the lift, want the new bedroom wall to start here and run to the wall, with the bedroom door roughly in the same place as before. Move the closet to the left corner running from the Vault entrance to the bedroom exit in an “L” shape and mirror it on the other side from the VR entrance to the exit"

"That will leave less open space in the bedroom than before the expansion." Mahan stated.

"I don't have a problem with that. I want a six by six room around the lift doors instead of a hallway." I walked out into what used to be the living area. “I want a wall running from the lift to me intersecting with a wall from the bedroom doorway out into the room. Good, now put a wall on the other side of the bedroom entrance creating a hallway. Add a foot of width to the always and put a wall from the end out to the bulkhead. I walked down the hall about four foot. Put doors here. The room on the right side will be a second restroom and the room on the left will be my office. Add a second door leading from the office into the lift entrance room." I walked back out of the hall and paused. “Cut the corners of the hallway at forty five degree angles with a two foot long wall for decorative effect. Replace the wall where Shock’s studio used to be intersecting a wall from the left side of the lift room and designate the space as the living room.”

"I'll have the construction drones begin the process of expanding the reclamation systems."

I nodded and walked to the open corner of the where next to the lift room entry room. I want a door here leading to the area where Shock’s new studio will be placed. Shock, The area behind this wall is where your studio and Kyle's kitchen will go. You can move the door as you see fit. When you set up your studio try to remember Kyle’s kitchen has to go beside it and try to fill in the odd shaped areas with storage space or whatever. Once you're done come back out and let me know so that I can get Kyle started on designing his new kitchen." I walked over and sat in my chair. I hadn't planned on making such drastic changes. Still with four of us now, we needed expanded facilities. Setting up a bedroom for Frost was just the push I needed to accept making changes. I laughed to myself. I'd been considering a "Captain's Office" for some time but I'd made do with the Flight Commander's office on the main hangar deck as a way to hide. And the small meeting space behind the bridge for everything else. This way I wouldn't have that excuse anymore. I stood up and entered my office to begin setting it up.

***

I sat back and looked over the office space. Everything in it had been created with the matter generator so there was nothing original. The door was directly in front of me I'd replaced the wall and door with what looked like marbled glass out of a mystery novel including the "Captain Nightiger: Shadow Runner Commander" written in gold lettering on the outside. It was all blast proof; of course, but it looked fragile. A leather couch stretched along the right hand wall. Above it was a set of three shelves. On the bottom level were Sun Tzu's "The Art of War", Machiavelli’s "The Prince", "The Complete Works of Shakespeare", "The Holy Bible Old and New Testaments Unabridged" as recorded by Mahan, "The Book of Mormon and Pearl of Great Price Collection", "The Word of Mohamad" original teachings as recorded by Mahan, "The complete works of Confucius" "The Log of Prowler: The Homeless one" and "The complete Calvin and Hobbes".

The Middle shelf held a group of six inch action figures including Shadowcat and Lockheed, Rocket Raccoon and Groot, Nightwing, Badlands, Wildside, Hardline, Breakdown, Red XIII, and a certain black tiger, Stormi Folf, Fluke Husky, Tirox, Majira Strawberry, Maverick, Tigatron, Airazor, and finally Fuzor Silverbolt.

On the top shelf was a multitude of minimate block figures the highlight being new customs of Wildside, Redline, and Shock Fox.

The left wall was a display of edged weapons. Behind me on the left side of the door into the living quarters was a matter generator. On the right was an artificial window displaying a real time image of the area outside the ship. Currently part of the Junkyard and Junkyard Base was in view.

On my desk were two pictures. The computer terminal was built flat into the surface but could be lifted and angles so that only I could see it. The first photo, in a silver frame, was a copy of the painting that Shock had given me for my birthday, but taken from Mahan's system as a real picture. The second in a gold frame was sort of a fantasy piece I'd composed from my party in VR with myself in the center and Kyle, Kelly, Russell, Monte, and Boe grouped around me. It may not have actually happened, but it could have if any of us had thought of getting a picture, I felt happy every time I looked at it so it was worth the time I spent creating it.

There was a knock on the door. I glanced up and two shadows were darkening the glass. I considered shifting my clothing into a classic film noir detective's outfit, but I doubted either one of my visitors would get the reference. Instead I changed to my uniform and sat up. "Enter."

"Tiger, what are you doing now?" Kyle asked.

"Commander Dacat, when we are in my office you will refer to me as Captain. With the arrival of a new crew member things are going to have to change around here. We can't just spend all of our time playing games."

"Um, Captain, are those toys on your shelves?" Frost asked.

"Yes, they are, Frost. First order of business, Kyle, have you come up with a full legal human name for Frost?"

"Actually I have, Russell Aerith Nightiger. Russell for your best friend, Aerith in honor of my fallen teammate and Nightiger for our family name. Of course we'll still call him Frost most of the time."

"Huh?" Frost asked in confusion.

"Each of us have a legal human Identity. I'm William Wildside. I considered changing my name, but after moving to the ship I didn't really see any need. Shock's human name is Kelly and you already know Kyle."

"Daddy, why don't you use a different name?"

"I have several Nanaki, Red XIII, and Kyle Dacat-Nightiger. It's just that I've gotten used to being called Kyle."

"As I was saying about changes, as you can see I've added a Captain's office."

"I've noticed. I also noticed that Shock set up a Furry Relations and Resources office on the other side of the entrance room."

"Of course he did." I rubbed between my eyes and shook my head. "He was supposed to set up a new studio since I'm changing our quarters around."

"You're what?" Kyle narrowed his eyes and practically growled.

"Yeah, that is one of the biggest reasons I wanted you in here first. I needed to prepare you for the fact that your kitchen and pantry are gone. However, before you get too mad, I did it for two reasons. The first is to give Frost his own room and the second was to expand the overall living space. Let's face facts my quarters were rather small since I was alone for so long. After you arrived and started 'enhancing' the kitchen and then we set up Shock's studio it has only gotten smaller. So I stripped out everything I could and started fresh. If Shock has finished delineating the space for his new studio you can begin setting up a new kitchen, pantry, and dining area to your liking rather than being confined to the available space. Once you finish we, and I'm including you Frost, will set up Frost's room."

"I get my own room? But, I'm not really here."

"Mahan, is the final A.I. upgrade ready?"

"Yes. Frost, with this implantation you will understand exactly what you are and how you will be converted into a biological entity. This upgrade also includes an education pack that will elevate you to the educational status of a human at your equivalent age. You will retain everything that you already know, however I need your authorization to upload."

"Before you answer I suggest you lay down on the couch. I know from personal experience this download can knock you off your feet." Kyle said, as he led Frost to the couch and I joined them.

"I-I give you my permission."

"Kyle, as Frost is your son-"

"Mahan, not to interrupt, but I think you should have Shock join us. It is important, as Frost's parents that we are all here for him."

In seconds Shock entered the office. "I'd wondered which office you'd choose." He said looking at Kyle.

"What do you mean?" Kyle asked, "All the doors were locked and only the Captain was available."

"Mahan?" Shock said in an accusatory voice.

"Shock we are preparing for Frost's final upgrade." I interrupted him.

"Kyle, do you agree to this upgrade?" Mahan Asked.

"Yes."

"Kelly, do you agree to Frost's upgrade?"

"Of course I do."

"Prowl-Ar, as Captain, you can overrule the consensus. Once the download is complete there is no going back. Frost will be a fully realized individual with the same rights and protections as any crew member. I also need to point out if you do not over rule the upgrade you are violating your own rule about not creating any more sapient virtual reality entities."

"Mahan, start the damn upgrade already. You have my consent to continue."

Frost seemed to pass out.

"Mahan?" I asked.

"I've put him to sleep. It'll make the download easier. However this is the last time I'll be able to do so. I suggest taking him completely offline for the next two days so that when he wakes up he'll be in his new biological body. It should reduce stress to his system. It is a lesson I learned after creating Kyle."

"What do you two think?” I asked.

"I'm all for Mahan's suggestion. It isn't easy dealing with the upgrade or becoming a biological entity. However I can see where it would have been easier if I hadn't gotten used to being a projection and then having to remember what it was like as a living being."

"I'm for whatever decision causes Frost the least amount of trauma." Shock added.

"All right we have two days to prepare our quarters for our new family member."

***

I was flopped across the end of my bed. We'd finished setting everything up, though Frost's room was pretty Spartan. We decided not to decorate it. Instead we'd help Frost decorate it to his own tastes. Kyle had gone off to tend his garden and Shock was likely doing a video showing off his new studio. I was left with nothing to do.

"Prowl-Ar, might I suggest you consider getting a memory implant? It will improve your parenting skills. Considering your philosophy on never having children to begin with, I really think you should at least learn a few techniques."

I sighed, I didn't want to admit it but Mahan was probably right. "I suppose it couldn't hurt, and it'll kill some time." I got up and headed for the hyper education facilities.

As I opened the door to the education room I felt a slight sting and found that I couldn't move.

"Sorry, but I don't have much time before your nanites counteract the paralytic." The Doctor said as she carried me to, and placed me on, the hyper education bed.

I'd gotten a brief glance and both Kyle and Shock were also hooked up.

"Again, I'm sorry but if I told you what I'm doing, there is a chance you would refuse. I'm already bending the rules and I don't want to break any." Mahan said.

The visor came down and I only had a moment to wonder what I'd done to push Mahan to mutiny. I only hoped there would be enough of my memory left to reset myself after whatever Mahan was planning.

***

The visor came up and I fell off the bed and promptly vomited all over the floor.

"Here, your painkiller and water." Shock offered, as Kyle lifted me back up on the bed.

I pushed them away. I tried to speak but I couldn't.

"Don't worry your voice will come back in about ten minutes. It's probably what Mahan tranquilized us with." Shock said, as he tried again with the painkiller and water.

I took the water only and sipped it as I glared at the door.

"We're locked in. Mahan insisted he'd let us go after we were all awake." Kyle pointed out.

I turned my glare at the camera and made the signs for "you are dead."

The door clicked and Frost opened it. "Dads, don't blame Mahan. I-I asked him to do it."

"You asked him to give us thirteen years of false memories?" Kyle asked.

Frost looked away. "Not false, they were real. Mahan used your memory crystals and my program. I-I just wanted to know what it would have been like if I'd grown up here with you, all of you. I admit it wasn't all good, but there were a lot of good memories so I asked him if there was any way to share those memories with all of you. I didn't know it would make you so angry, Dad."

"Tell . . . deadly . . . years?"

"Huh?" Frost cocked his head to one side in confusion.

"Did Mahan tell you how dangerous, and potentially deadly, uploading that many years of memories could be?" Kyle asked.

"No."

"Not safe. Av- avr- normal brain can't take that much at once. It's a wonder we survived, even with our enhanced healing abilities. I'm not mad at you, but I'm furious with Mahan because he knows better. I get what you wanted, but that much information should have been done in multiple downloads over at least a year."

"This is Junkyard Station. Captain, is everything alright over there? Mahan has only answered our communication’s with 'the crew are currently unavailable' until a few minutes ago. I can understand getting involved in a game but seven months is a bit extreme." Tank asked.

"Sorry about that Captain, I'm going to make sure it doesn't happen again." I replied.

"It better not, or next time I'll come over there and drag you out of your safe little VR unit before kicking your ass."

"Tuft, you can't talk to him that way."

"Listen, he caused you undo stress. He's lucky I'm being civil. Junkyard Station out."

"Seven months! Mahan! Do you realize what you've done to my career?" Shock yelled.

"Your fans are still offering you support while you deal with 'personal issues'."

"Two years per month. That is a bit safer, but still exceedingly dangerous. I really should erase you and perhaps start over with a completely new program."

"You could, but how far back would that set the development of biological bodies for Tank and Tuft? It would also undo all the work I've been doing upgrading the VR computers so that there shouldn't be any more problems."

"Seven months. Frost, how long have you been alone?" Kyle asked.

"Huh? I woke up and Mahan directed me here only a few minutes ago. The last thing I remember, from here, is being in Dad's office."

"Mahan?" I asked.

"Yes, this is Frost's first, thirteenth, and fifty-first birthday today. I thought it would be a fitting day."

"Well then, we have a party to prepare." Shock said, as he headed for the door.

"Papa Shock, you always have the best parties." Frost said, running after him.

"You two go ahead, we’ll catch up shortly." Kyle waited for the door and we both saw Shock glance back with a worried look, just as the door slid shut.

"Can you move? You really should have taken your pain killer."

"Just give me a few more minutes. I hate how muzzy it makes me, but maybe I better take it now, before I try to get up again. I- I still don't want Frost to know."

"What are you two going on about?" Mahan asked.

"Damn it Mahan, you know perfectly well what we’re talking about. It's the progressive nerve damage caused by the rogue nanites."

"What rogue nanites?" Mahan asked in confusion.

"The ones that escaped detection when we were all infected. Shock and I had such low exposure that you got all of ours but not his."

"Where were they hidden?"

"You said they had attached themselves to his back bone and hidden by imitating the carbon fiber reinforcement."

"Interesting, how long before they became active?"

"They went active three years ago and have been chewing through my nervous system since." I growled.

"How have you been treating them?"

"They've completely compromised my own nanites so I only have my regular human immune system."

"As for the nerve damage he spends two hours in the evolver every three days to regenerate, as you instructed."

"As long as I remain isolated here on the ship and continue to regenerate I've got maybe four years left. Then my clone will have to be ready to replace me. So much for being immortal. Still, I'm in constant pain as they eat away at me."

"One moment please."

"What is he up to?" Kyle asked.

"Analysis complete. Kyle, the doctor is coming to give Prowl-Ar an injection. Please don't interfere."

"What is going on?" I asked.

"I've scanned you, down to the subatomic level. It seems the nanites function on a group consciousness. It's not that they are dormant, there are just too few to detect through ordinary means. When your last mem-crystal was created their consciousness was copied as well. You currently only have twelve of them in you, they are currently active but at a very low rate to keep from being detected. The doctor will be injecting you with hunter killer nanites designed specifically to overwhelm and destroy only that type of nanite."

"Wait, are you saying that he isn't going to die?" Kyle asked in excitement.

"I'm going to be running a continual scan until all of them are dead and then you'll need to make a new mem crystal so that I can destroy the one with their consciousness, but yeah because there are relatively few of them I should be able to destroy all of them. However, I would like to point out if not for the last seven months you wouldn't have known about the impending threat until it was too late, again."

"You get a reprieve, this time. However, from this point forward you cannot implant new information without the crew members’ informed and direct acceptance."

"Yes, I'd planned on that being part of the outcome and I've added it to the rules."

The doctor entered and Kyle growled but stepped back out of the way.

"Please roll on your stomach and expose your back. I need to make four injections: the back of the neck, the upper, middle, and lower back for the best coverage."

I rolled over exposing my back. The injections came without warning and in rapid succession.

"You, dragon, rub along this back for five minutes in order to assist in spreading the nanites to the affected areas." That said, she immediately turned and left.

Kyle started rubbing along my spine. "If Frost needs medical attention I think we'd better send Shock with him. She obviously still hates both of us. Or maybe we should start considering the possibility of interviewing real doctors.”

I knew he had a point, but I wasn’t sure I was ready to allow anyone else to join the crew. “Have Mahan look over the applications. I’ll go over them eventually.” I mumbled as the pain killer really took effect.

***

"Kyle, I need to go to my office first and I need you to send Frost in to meet with me."

"You're not going to interrogate, or punish, him just because he wanted us to know what it would be like to be his parents, are you?"

"I can't make any promises, but that isn't my intention. I'm going to distract him while you're cooking. This will be his first time eating real food, so I figured you might want to do something extra special."

"You know, occasionally you do have good ideas."

"I have to try, otherwise you might realize I'm not worth keeping around."

Kyle sighed, "Eventually I'll find a way to break that habit of putting yourself down."

"Keep working on it." I entered my office and headed for the chair. I'd almost started to sit down before I realized just how irritating that would be to my sore back. Instead I moved to the couch and eased down before laying on my side.

"Um, Dad? Daddy said you wanted to see me?" Frost asked as he opened the door from the living room.

"Yeah, can you get me a pillow?" I Asked.

"Sure, um, from your room?"

"No, just use the matter generator." I pointed to the unit.

He quickly ordered a pillow and then turned toward me. "Bring the chair over with you as well. Tap the blue button on the arm, which will unlock its magnetic hold on the floor"

Frost pulled the chair over and I reached out and relocked it. I took the pillow and braced myself up slightly. "Please sit."

"You want me to sit in your chair? You don't even let Daddy or Poppa sit in your office chair! I'm in trouble aren't I?"

"No, you're not in any trouble. In fact I wanted to talk to you because I haven't been completely honest with you. For the last three years I haven't been the best parent. I know Shock and Kyle did their best to cover for me, but it doesn't excuse the way I've acted."

"It's okay, I know you've been in a lot of pain. Are you . . . Dad, I don't want to lose you. I'll try to be better." Frost started to cry.

I carefully sat up and pulled him into a hug. "You're not going to lose me. I'm not going anywhere. I admit I'm still in a bit of pain but that is mostly because I believed I was in pain for so long. The reason I'm lying on the couch is because I just got four shots down my back to cure the problem and it's a bit . . . sensitive. The reason I wanted to talk to you was to apologize for my actions. Well, that and ask you what you'd like for your birthday present."

"I just want all of us to be together. After all, I'm actually real now. There's also the fact that I can have anything physical I might want using the matter generator."

I nodded, "So, have you tested your new body yet?"

Frost's face turned red as he looked away. "Um, yeah, but I didn't think you'd ask about that."

I was confused for a moment before I colored in embarrassment. "That wasn't what I meant. I was referring to your ability to shift, since you've been in your human form all this time."

"Oh! Yeah, Mahan made me shift through all my forms just to be sure. The reason I'm human right now is because I'm holding the same form until it feels normal. It's kind of a different feeling here compared to being a game character. Maybe not so much different as more intense."

"So is there something you really want?"

"Well, no, not really." Frost said looking away.

"You're not going to get into trouble. Just tell me."

"I- I'd like to spend some time on Earth. Just to know what it is like in reality. I'd also like to meet other kids my age. In the game I could watch and pretend to play with them, but I was never able to actually get to know them. Oh, but I want real friends outside the VR worlds."

"It may be possible to spend some time on Earth, but we've got to be careful. Not everyone likes us down there. As for finding friends for you, that may be a lot harder but not impossible. Mahan, what is the current status of Furry Station 1?"

"FS-1? Don’t you mean DS-9?"

"No, Furry Station One. A.I. and drone system designation: Silverbolt."

"Connecting now. Silverbolt, the Captain would like a status report."

"The station is 79.574 percent completed. All that is left is minor cosmetic enhancements. Once that is accomplished the final 20% will require moving into the system in order to begin planting the gardens."

"The dome is completed?"

"Yes, Sir, and the open area has already been pressurized. I sent you an alert three months ago stating that the station is fully secure and able to support a crew and their families."

"Sorry, I'm a bit behind in my paperwork."

"Mahan informed me of your condition. Congratulations on becoming a parent."

"To that end, what is the viability of setting up an exclusive boarding school on the station?"

"Yes, that can be accommodated, once the primary crew is settled. Will you be hiring staff or will it be left to me and my drone compliment?"

"I'll have Mahan look into hiring staff but you will likely have to fill vacancies as needed."

"How many students?”

“I'm thinking four classes split into roughly 25 students each for the four years of high school. So around 400 students total, plus any crew member's children and my own son, of course."

"So roughly twenty to thirty teachers, not that so many will be required but over estimating will allow for better allocation of the space needed. I also like the idea that I will be useful as more than just a temporary fix until a full colony can be established."

"You are not a temporary fix. Even after a colony is in place you’ll still provide valuable services. I already have some ideas about your command crew and once I've had a chance to go over the possibilities with Mahan I'll let you know. Of course once you are crewed we'll move you into your new position between Earth and Mars. Prowl-Ar, out."

"I'm guessing the Redfields for chief Medical Officer and Security Chief?" Mahan asked.

"Sort of, I'm thinking the sisters should both run security. After all, we're going to need a lot of security if we're going to keep our tech from being leaked."

"Yes, I can see your reasoning. I've known you were going to be looking for a command crew soon so I made some preliminary selections. The files are listed under 'personnel: station command options'. Now I'm going to start researching teachers."

"Um, Dad? Why would you want to send me to school when I can learn anything I need with the memory implantation device?"

"At your age the best way to meet others your own age is in school. Setting up a boarding school on the station makes sure that all the students really want to be there."

"Mahan, is Shock available or is he busy?" I asked.

"He's trying to help Kyle, but mostly he's in the way."

"Open the com. Shock, would you please join us in my office." It only took moments for the door to open.

"Whatever it is, I didn't do it."

"That's not what Frost told me." I said winking at Frost.

"Wait, we just came out of seven months of unconsciousness, I couldn't have done anything." Shock defended.

Frost started laughing.

"So, our son would like to make some real friends for his birthday wish. To that end I thought 'why not set up a boarding school on the furry station’ so that Frost could get to know others his own age. Naturally my next thought was 'how do we get the message out?' and the first thing I came up with was a professional Shock Fox video with links to an application form."

"Hmm, would the school be limited to furrys?"

"No, the school will be open to all applicants. It wouldn't be fair to restrict the applications, however we will choose the students that get to attend. There are 100 openings for each of the four years. Mahan is currently working on a staff list."

"Come on Kid, let’s get to work. I've got a few possible ideas already, and I think it's time to introduce our newest family member to the world."

Shock and Frost exited through the main entrance likely heading for Shock's office across the hall. I carefully got up and picked up my pillow. The pain was starting to go away. I headed into the living room.

"I wondered how long it would be before you needed help keeping Frost distracted." Kyle stated. Ad converted the wall I’d place between the living room and his kitchen into an open counter top.

I carefully lay down on the couch. "I was able to get Frost to confess, what he really wants for his birthday."

"I'd wondered that myself considering he can get just about anything he wants from the matter generator."

"He wants to spend some time down on the planet."

"Oh, that's right out of the question. I’m not going to risk his safety after our last incident." Kyle stated.

"The other thing he wants is friends his own age."

Kyle laughed. "A real dragon, lusting after treasure he can't have."

"Oh, I don't know. I guess I'm setting up a high school on the station so that he can meet and maybe become friends with children his own age."

"The station is that close to being functional?" Kyle asked in surprise.

"As soon as we've selected a command crew it can be brought online. Then we just need school staff for that to be ready. Of course getting students is going to be a challenge."

"You'd better examine any prospective teachers and students very carefully.”

"Don't worry, Mahan will be selecting the most suitable applicants after doing a complete history check on them. Then I'll go through and make the final decision on each applicant for a second layer of security. So, what are you making for his birthday dinner?"

"I've made a chocolate cake with mint frosting, Mahan assured be that the active ingredient that makes you high has been removed, but I just can't come up with an idea for dinner. Ideally I'd like to make fresh salmon steaks but it's not like we have any fresh fish onboard."

"Pack up the cake. We're going on a family outing."

"You're going to risk a trip down to the planet? Are you insane?"

"Perhaps. Mahan, is the home place still being watched?"

"Not since Shock's brother moved in and took over as caretaker."

"Not ideal, but workable. Where is the best place to get fresh salmon?"

For the best catch there are two options, an Inuit fish market in Alaska, or Kamchatka Russia. If you want the absolute freshest the Alaskan market in about an hour is your best bet. I'd suggest having Shock with you if you want to get a good deal, as several of the fishermen are fans."

"So we go and buy a fresh fish, and either you risk cooking it at Shock's old place, or we come back out here. However, I'll pack our armor, including a set for Frost just to be safe."

Kyle sighed, "I'll meet you at the shuttle. There are some herbs and vegetables I need to collect from my garden. You'd better be right that the house will be safe. I don't want anything to go wrong and interfere with Frost's birthday party."

I grinned. "Put the cake in a stasis container. I'll have Shock carry it, since I'm still a little unstable."

"I'll take it. You don't think I'm going to let you four go back down to Earth unprotected, do you?" Mahan said, as his drone entered the room.

"Perfect I'll go check on Frost and Shock's current project and then head for the shuttle. I walked, well hobbled, to Shock's office and found both of them coming out of the studio area.

"Hey Dad, can you believe it? We finished the video and seconds later applications started flooding in." Frost said excitedly.

"It was more like two minutes after the video went live, but it is still rather amazing considering the video is eleven minutes long."

"That means I might be able to make friends at the beginning of the school year!"

"Hold on, we still need a station crew, as well as school staff."

"There are separate applications for all three: students, teachers, and crew. I actually had to laugh because the first application to arrive was from Dr. Redfield and it simply said 'I will be the station's chief medical officer, my wife will be head of security and the twins will be attending the school. Or else.' I immediately called her to inform her that you had already filled those crew positions. Just for clarification, there isn't a ship on Earth that can actually reach the junkyard, right?" Shock asked.

"Not unless they contact Tank and Tuft." If Shock’s fur could change color I was sure he’d be mistaken for an arctic fox from the look on his face.

"I think she still wants to kill me, even after I told her that her position was secure but her wife had to share the security position with Jennifer Steele. As for the kids, since they had crew for parents they would automatically be registered in the school, but not be counted as part of the 400 available openings. That is what you wanted, right?"

"Other than needlessly antagonizing the doctor, yes that is correct. Now, a question for you. How do you think your brother is going to react when we basically take over his house for a night?"

"Huh?" Shock asked in confusion.

"Your brother has taken over your place, but we're going to take it back for tonight for Frost's party. He is of course invited, since he's the one currently living there."

"I honestly don't know."

"So call him and find out." I said.

"Oh, I guess I could do that."

Shock sat at his desk. "Mahan-"

"It's already ringing."

"Hello?" A voice answered.

"Hey Will, it's Kelly."

"Hey Sis, sorry I meant Bro. I'm still trying to get used to being able to use the correct pronouns now that I'm out on my own."

"Yeah, about that, are you doing anything today?"

"Nah, I'm waiting on a few places to call me for an interview, but I'm taking care of your place and it is a pretty sweet deal. Speaking of interviews I just watched your newest video and I'm currently filling out the application for a future teaching position. I know I'm going to need to get a degree first but you didn't say how long it would be before the school would be up and running. Maybe I should fill out a second application to become a member of the station's crew. Any tips or secrets you can share that'll improve my chances?"

"Not really."

"Bummer, oh and what's this about having a kid? Did one you adopt him? Does this mean I'm an uncle now?"

I was surprised at the excitement in Will’s tone.

"That's a long story, but basically yes you are an uncle now. That's why I'm calling. Today's his birthday and we'd like to have his party at your place. Mahan informed me you've taken over for me and I didn't just want to barge in if you have plans."

"Just how many people are you talking about?"

"It would just be your brother and his two mates, our security drone, yourself and of course your nephew. We'll be bringing all the food with us, but Kyle will need your kitchen to prepare it."

"What is he making?"

"Sorry, I can't tell you since it is a surprise for Frost and he's standing right here. However Kyle is an excellent chef, when he's not experimenting, and I can guarantee the dinner he has planned is something special."

"Let me remind you that Kyle is a dragon and dragons don't believe in small portions so I hope you have an appetite. Just one thing, you can't tell anyone." Shock added.

"Like I want the government breathing down my neck. I'm still jumping at shadows and I'm not so certain this place isn't heavily bugged."

"I fixed that problem a long time ago unregistered listening devices won't work in that house. As for jumping at shadows the walls all have a titanium lining and the windows are bullet proof. I upgraded the place so that if necessary it can double as a fallout shelter. Have you noticed a distinct ‘thud’ sound when you lock the doors? Those are locking rods once you lock the doors nothing gets in without authorization."

"What about the phantom voices and smells? Are they generated to scare people away?"

"No, those are the ghosts you share the house with. I know it can be a bit annoying when they wake you up, but they're harmless and often rather friendly."

"Okay, that doesn't exactly make me feel better."

"When you smell the pipe smoke that is your ancestor that made me promise to keep the place for as long as possible, so that the family members would always have a place to call home. As it turns out it is true for both the living and the dead. There really is nothing to be afraid of."

"So Kelly, I guess I'll see you in a bit then?"

"Yeah, later Will."

"I suggest we hurry. Kyle's probably finished collecting his supplies and is waiting for us.”

“Were you serious about the ghosts? I mean I always thought it was just my imagination.” Shock asked.

“So did I for a long time, but all too often there wasn’t any other explanation so I just accepted it as fact. I mean it wasn’t a bad thing, well except when they’d seem to shout my name when I was half asleep, I have to admit that was really annoying.”

***

"Do you think Frost really enjoyed his birthday?" Kyle asked.

We were on the couch with an anime playing on the vid screen.

"No, I'm sure he hated every minute of it. Especially that side trip to the remote lake where we allowed him to shift to his dragon form and go for a swim." Shock said, before letting out a large belch. "Excuse me."

"Shock's right, did you see the look on his face when he tasted your salmon steaks? Total disgust and he had to be revolted by that cake." I grinned, and snuggled closer, letting Kyle know I was only joking.

"Yeah, did you see the size of that second piece he took? It was huge, I'm sure he did that just to keep the rest of us from over indulging." Shock added.

"Enough, I get it already. I- I just wanted to make sure everything was perfect."

"I don't think we could have done anything to make it better. So yeah, I think Frost loved it. I was more concerned with how Will was going to react. He wasn't exactly nice when I first met him."

"I told you he wasn't that bad when he isn't being monitored. Though I was a bit surprised at his entertainment list. There were a lot of furry type movies listed." Shock said.

"Perhaps he's just trying to understand you a bit better. Even I have to admit, I don't fully understand the community." Kyle pointed out.

"Kyle, even though I haven't exactly been a part of the community, hiding out here all this time, I've still been watching and even I don't fully understand it."

"Don't look at me. I know people think I'm a popufur because of my videos, but the truth is I only got to visit a few cons and that was only because someone else invited me in order so split the costs."

"Fur Tokyo?" I asked.

"Uh yeah. That was actually a high school trip. We were supposed to spend time making contacts and learning the business culture. I just sort of planned to ditch the group and go to the con instead. The thing is my roommate caught sight of my suit and after telling her my plans she decided to join me. Of course word got around and the groups sort of reshuffled members so those of us that could afford door passes got in."

"Where did you get the money?" I asked.

"So maybe I did take advantage of being a popufur. Video Fox was invited to attend for free in exchange for a series of videos advertising the convention in the US, something I did before even learning I'd be in Japan during the Con. We'd have really caught hell if it wasn't for the fact that the Con group made a lot of contacts while the other groups did really poorly."

"Okay Dads, I've brushed my teeth. Oh, can I watch the movie with you before bed?" Frost asked.

"I suppose, but only because it's still your birthday." Kyle said sternly.

I suppressed a laugh. Kyle did his best to act like the stern parent, but we all knew he would always be the first one to fall for Frost's charms and of course I wouldn't be far behind. The truth was that the real disciplinarian was Shock.

"Papa, what game were you letting your fans watch? It wasn't the one I was in, was it? Because I don't really want to go back there."

"If you don't want to go back that's fine, and no it wasn't that game. That game is a military game." Shock replied.

"Wait, where did you hear about another game?" I asked.

"I was checking the messages, about the new school video I made several people had asked when the next game episode would be released."

"I don't know as we'll continue that game, or any of our old games, since we wouldn't want you to feel left out."

"I don't see why he couldn't play the MAS game with us. After all a lot of your anime revolves around a kid taking control of a mobile suit. He also won't be fighting against other people like in those shows."

Shock pointed out.

I rolled my eyes and then laughed as I noticed Kyle doing the same thing.

"It can't be worse than thinking a giant red dragon s going to show up and kill me at any moment." Frost insisted.

"You go on to bed, while we discuss the possibility." Kyle said, as he got up to escort Frost to bed.

"But Daddy, I'm not tired and you said I could watch the movie."

"No complaints, Daddy Kyle is right. You need plenty of rest for your new body to function properly. No more going until you pass out like when we were in your game." Shock insisted.

"Yes, Papa Shock."

Once they were out of the room Shock turned on me. "I can't believe the two of you are such push-overs."

"Hey, you're the one that suggested the MAS game was a possibility. I would have suggested a new game. One that is much more teen friendly."

"That locks out all your games." Kyle said, as he returned.

I quickly moved to my chair and pulled out the computer station.

"What are you up to?" Shock asked.

"I'm locking all of my game files, as Kyle suggested. As much fun as they can be they are certainly not child safe. I hate to say this, but currently only one game option exists."

Shock grinned

"And I don't feel that game is appropriate either." I pointed out.

"We could try to create another fantasy game. Though I found that I really wasn't invested in the story like you and Shock."

"Come on Tiger, you grew up in the golden age of video games. Kyle was born in a video game. Surely the two of you can think of something."

"What about you, Foxy? What are modern games like?"

"I wasn't allowed to play games. Mom wouldn't allow them in the house. Even my computer was monitored to make sure I wasn’t wasting my life. After I was on my own I was so busy trying to survive that gaming was an unneeded distraction. So my gaming knowledge is restricted to what I've experienced in VR."

"Mahan, what are the most popular current games for teens?" I asked.

"Running a check. By the way, you're going to receive a call in the next couple of days; if Officer Redfield finally gets up the nerve. As you know I've been monitoring them and she has attempted to call you several times. Search completed, the current most popular game is your MAS game even though it is unavailable to new players. However play sessions have the highest number of watches. Everything else you would consider inappropriate even if it is for teens."

"How about this, we let Frost watch a couple of selections from the game and see how he reacts?" Kyle asked.

"Captain, you have a call. It seems the Doctor finally decided to take the option out of her wife's hands."

I sighed, "Put her through. You're calling rather late, Doctor."

"I'm sorry, I wasn't sure what time it would be for you."

"Its fine, how can I help you?"

"How close to completion is the station?"

I could hear the fear in her voice. "What's wrong?"

"Jen has been receiving death threats since she got back. There is a few seconds of video, from where the embassy was attacked, where she can be seen clearly. She's been trying to keep it to herself but, Jan noticed the effect it was having. I got her to admit that there was a problem, but she was working through her contacts to find the culprits. However, this evening someone killed a cat and smeared 'die alien loving furry' with its blood on our apartment door and left the remains in the hallway.”

"Is Jennifer there with you?"

"Yeah, I'm here. I came over when Jan called me."

"In twenty minutes I want all of you to go out. Make it look like you're defying the haters and the five of you are just going out for dinner. Don't pack anything you wouldn't normally take on such an outing. Instead go to the roof, you'll be met by one of my agents."

"How will we know him?" Jen asked.

I laughed, "He's an anthro-rabbit and he`ll most likely be holding a very big gun. His name is Tuft, and other than being somewhat homicidal, when it comes to protecting those in his care, he's really a caring individual. Trust me, once you're in his care anyone trying to harm you will be reduced to free floating particles. Oh, and don't compare him to our otter doctor. Tuft is a fully actualized A.I. life form."

"I have transferred the mission details to Tank and Tuft. The Bad Luck is in route. Estimated time until arrival Eighteen minutes." Mahan announced.

"What about our things?" A young voice asked.

"Mary, honey, trust me I've been aboard Captain Nightiger's ship. He can replace everything we're leaving behind."

"What about our friends?"

"Mark, how often do you spend any physical time with them? You've been watching Shock's game videos so the station will obviously have a net connection."

"Before it becomes an issue, once you are safely aboard the station, Mahan can have his drones collect your belongings."

"But Mom-" Mary started.

"Enough, we're going and that's all there is to it." Nichole stated, "Now come on and try to act normal."

"I'm transferring you directly over to Tank, he's the Captain of the ship coming to pick you up."

"Call has been transferred."

"Thanks Mahan, please let Silverbolt know that his first residents will be arriving shortly. Drake, Fox, I want you two to get some rest. You're going to need it in order to keep up with Frost tomorrow. I'm going over to the station to get-"

"No. You need the rest. You haven't fully recovered from the memory implant, perceived nanite attack, and subsequent treatment. Drake, make sure he actually gets some sleep. Medicate him if you have to. As the youngest I've got the best recovery and all I have to do is get them settled." Shock said commandingly.

"It's not just getting them settled." I started.

Shock rolled his eyes. "I know that. I need Silverbolt to run a molecular scan on Jennifer to make sure she doesn't have any lingering nanites, run a VR simulation of the Steele and Redfield apartments so that they can make an inventory of items that can't simply be replaced due to sentimental value, and get the adults set up in their new offices. Am I missing anything?"

"Silverbolt can get them set up in their offices, but the kids are going to need to get some sleep before sorting through their possessions." I pointed out.

"Right, I'll take a break, get some rest, finish up with the kids, and then get back over here as quickly as possible."

"No. Don't rush, we'll be over after Tiger and Frost have rested." Kyle said.

"This is mutiny, you both know that right?" I asked.

"As the one in charge of monitoring your health I'm relieving you of duty. Until such time as I feel you are fit, Kyle is in command."

"Et tu, Mahan?"

"Shock, I approve your plan, so get going. Now Tiger, are you going to bed or do I need to have you tranquilized?"

"I swear I should argue a bit more and complain a lot more, but I'm just too damn tired." I turned and headed for the bedroom. "And wipe those damn self-satisfied smirks off your muzzles."

***

"Good afternoon, Captain Nightiger." Jen said as we reached the station's control center.

"Please, unless you have official business or I'm on the bridge of the Shadow Runner, just call me Prowl-Ar. So did you get any rest?"

"Enough, more than usual if I'm being completely honest. At first I couldn't fall asleep, but Silverbolt set me up with city ambience and I slept more soundly than I have in years."

"I do my best to make sure my crew have everything they need."

"Damn! How do you get used to having a third individual that you can't see always be there lurking." Jen asked.

"I don't lurk. That would imply I have impure motives." Silverbolt said, as his primary anthro-wolf griffin hybrid drone entered, ruffling his feathers.

"That's just how it feels when you're a disembodied voice."

"You think that's bad? Try dealing with a three way argument when technically two of the participants are supposed to be the same individual." Tank said as he and Tuft arrived.

"Tuft, did you break into Mahan's files again?" I asked.

"No, Tank's talking about me arguing with Bad Luck."

"So you're the A.I. drone for the transport?" Jen asked.

"Former, Bad Luck now has its own A.I. control system and I'm in the process of upgrading to become a biological entity." Tuft pointed out.

"Speaking of which, why is it that we have to wait seven years where as Frost already has a biological body?" Tank asked.

"I know that one. It's because I was created using Kyle and Prowl-Ar or Shock's DNA. The computer had my complete biological profile even before I was created, in game. Add to that the fact that I'm only thirteen and it made the generation process much quicker."

I stared at Frost for several seconds. "Silverbolt, would you please connect me with Mahan."

"Of course, Captain."

"In trouble already?" Mahan asked.

"You have no idea. At any point were you running simulations to see the genetic results of Kyle, Shock, or myself?"

"Oh, you finally realized about that. No, I wasn't the one who ran the simulations. Before you ask I'm not going to divulge who it was either. Mahan out."

"So Kyle, anything to tell me?" I asked.

"No, I don't have anything to tell you because if I say it wasn't me, you'll blame Shock. However, if I take the blame-"

"I'm the one at fault."

I slowly turned. I hadn't even heard Janelle, Nichole, and the kids enter.

"I was bored while all of you were unconscious when you were being cured of the nanite infection. So to kill time I was studying your medical technology. Not to steal it, just as something to do, and I discovered that it was possible to run simulations on what the probable results would be of combining two parents DNA. Of course I started with my own and Jennifer's." Nichole said

"You what?" Jan yelled.

"I didn't have a sample from you, but since you are identical twins the results would be the same."

"Mom, are you thinking of having more kids?" Mary asked.

"I won't lie, the thought has crossed my mind a couple of times. Still, like I said it was just a simulation, and of course the top results turned out to be you two hellions anyway. So I tried combining the next most likely parings. So Captain, would you mind explaining why the computer locked out any pairing between you and Shock?" Nichole asked.

"MoOom, you really need to watch Shock's show." Mary said, "It's probably because Shock and Prowl-Ar are related."

"There is an eight generation genetic drift between them though, so it shouldn't be a problem." Mark added.

"That explains why we weren't able to locate a program error. The genetic simulation wasn't created by a crew member so it wasn't locked out of the VR computer's information sources." Kyle said with a laugh.

"Maybe but none of the results had blue hair." Nichole said.

"That was my choice. In the game, I believed that my mother was a blue dragon, so of course I'd be the same color. When I shifted my appearance to look human I kept the blue hair so Mahan adjusted my biological body to be the same." Frost said.

"Well at least you chose to be a biological human. Mom desperately wants to be a lioness." Mary stated and then frowned at Jan.

I let out a bark of laughter. I just couldn't help myself, "I take it you're not a furry?"

"I most certainly am not. I don't hate them, I do have a few furry friends, and I love Shock's videos, but wanting to be an animal? It just seems foolish to me."

"But being a furry makes everything different." Frost said.

"So you're a furry then? I guess that makes sense since your parents actually can become animals." Mark said.

"At least they have the sense to make sure their son was grown before letting him become a shifter." Nichole stated

"Dad, can I?" Frost asked, while pulling on my sleeve.

I smiled knowing Shock wasn't happy with the Doctor's statement. "Frost, why don't you let them know what you true form is?"

"Dad?"

I knelt down and looked into Frost’s eyes. "I know how hard you're trying to be able to fit in, but we also want you to be happy. Besides you're the one that is trying to get used to being human, but you're not just human. You need to be comfortable as yourself in all of your forms."

Frost smiled and looked at Nichole. "In the game, where I was created, when I met my dad I was disguising myself as a giant red dragon. You see I believed I was using dragon magic to change forms. Dad saw right through my magic forcing me to change showing that I was a young blue dragon. Even then I was hiding but when I fell asleep that night I transformed back into my true form. A form that Dad, Daddy, and Papa have been helping me accept." Frost shifted to his full dragon otter hybrid form. "I'm a blue otter dragon hybrid, and I'm no animal."

"Oh my God! You're soOo cute!" Mary yelled, as she ran forward to hug Frost.

Frost immediately shifted to his full otter form and scampered behind Kyle, who shifted to his full dragon form to shield him. Even I'd shifted to my anthro tiger form. Silverbolt's drone had transformed to his wolf griffin form and was facing me protecting his crew. Everyone stood very still. Within seconds a loud chuffing noise that I recognized as Kyle’s laughter in his dragon form started followed by a quiet whimpering sound. I looked down to find Shock lying down with his paws over his muzzle trying to keep his laughter from being heard.

"Well" Jennifer said, "You certainly take over protective parenting to a whole new level.

"I- I'm sorry, I just wanted to hug him." Mary stammered.

"No, it's my fault." Frost said, as he shifted back to his dragon form and slowly came out from behind Kyle, "I'm not used to interacting with other people. Where I grew up, if someone was running toward me, it meant they were going to try to kill me."

"You were completely alone?" Mark asked.

"No, I had my step mother who was constantly warning me not to trust any two legs, or other dragons either. Then after she was taken there was Char, but it's difficult having any sort of physical connection to an ancient dragon's ghost. I guess the first person I trusted was Dad, but he was also the first person more interested in talking to me as an equal rather than wanting to 'kill the evil dragon'."

"You're about the same age as we are and you've live your whole life with everyone wanting to kill you? Last night was the first time someone has ever wanted me dead and I had nightmares all night. How do you get over something like that?" Mark asked.

"Um, I run away and hide until I feel safe again. I thought that was obvious." Frost replied before shifting back to his anthro-form.

"Now that I'm up it's time for you two to come and sort your belongings." Shock said, after he also shifted and cleared his throat.

"You went and packed all our stuff already?" Mary asked.

"All of our things?" Mark asked with a touch of fear.

"I haven't packed anything." Shock said grinning.

"Come on you two we'll explain on the way." Nichole ordered.

"You thought of a few more things you want to keep?" Shock asked.

"The opposite actually. Now that Silverbolt has taught us a bit more we've realized most of our stuff, we thought we couldn't live without is at best redundant and a lot of it is simply archaic in comparison."

"I know what you mean. I at least I had a few weeks before deciding what I really wanted to keep." Shock said.

"By the way, what happened to your Video Fox head?" Jan asked

"I- I don't really know. Tiger?" Shock asked turning to me.

"Your original full suit is safe in the vault until you feel you're ready to look at it again without feeling so much pain. The head you left in Command after your video was made of smart cloth and I returned that to your uniform."

Shock ran over and hugged me. "You really are smarter than Mahan, or you will ever admit."

"Are you sure about that? Somehow I ended up with a wonderful foxy mate rather than an obedient fox pet." I said, as I returned his hug.

Shock booped me on the nose, "For that you get a cookie, one of Kyle's special experimental kind."

"First mutiny, and then coup by cookie." I said overly dramatically.

"You know it. Come on Frost, you can help as well."

We watched as the group left the control center. Once I was sure they were gone I started to move and found myself draped over Kyle's tail.

"You know you shouldn't be shifting yet." He said, as he maneuvered me to a chair. I noticed that Jennifer also stumbled a bit as she too headed for a seat.

"So what the hell is going on? As soon as I got on the transport, psycho bunny had me in their med-bay running a scan on me, then when we arrived feather butt over there injected me with something. Now my back hurts like hell and I can barely walk. It took everything I had to keep Nichole from noticing."

"It's the damn nanites again, they burrowed into our spines and are slowly beginning to rebuild a colony. I currently have twelve of the things in me. However most of my problems are psychosomatic brought on by a memory implant."

"How does that happen?" she asked.

"Frost wanted memories of having a real family. Since he was still basically a living program Mahan ran a full life simulation using our memory crystals, Frost's identity program and the VR chamber on master level to create realistic situations and memories. In fact it worked so well that Frost was a bit depressed since only he would remember it. Mahan, and I can't really blame him for this, decided the best way to help Frost would be to implant each of our simulation's memories so that we would all share the experiences. Unfortunately what Mahan didn't know was how good our simulations were at hiding my condition. Basically I lived with rapid progressive nerve destruction on a daily basis using my tech to regenerate myself every three days."

"Am I in any danger?"

"No, you only have three nanites left. The hunter killers you were injected with have already completed the eradication process. The pain you're feeling now is from the HK's breaking down and being removed from your system. And please, if you must use a nickname for me I'd prefer Bird-Dog to Feather Butt."

"Heh, I actually kind of like psycho-bunny." Tuft said, grinning madly.

"You would." Tank replied.

"So what is your story? I get that Tuft is a highly advanced drone, even though I'd have guessed he was a shifter if Prowl-Ar hadn't warned us. However I have to wonder how you, Captain Tank, convinced him to let you join him."

"It's Captain Bradley Sherman Abrams, my father was a history fanatic and loved tanks so being named after tanks my nickname “Tank” was rather obvious to everybody. At least that’s what my memories tell me. If you want to know more as my God over there."

I rolled my eyes and Kyle let out a chuff of laughter.

"I meant on Prowl-Ar’s crew."

"Like I said as God over there." Tank said pointing at me.”

“I don’t get it.”

"Tank is here because of a VR glitch. An honest to God glitch with a bit of emotional blackmail. When he said God, he was referring to me."

"Riiight."

"Really, Tank and I are characters from one of Prowl-Ar's unfinished stories. The VR computer generated us in one of Prowl-Ar's games. However, when Prowl-Ar radioed and said he couldn’t wait to speak with me, Tuft and not Fluff, my generated name the computer adjusted the game to replicate my story self. I was a highly advanced A.I. that had developed sentience and fallen in love with my Captain. Of course as soon as my program was elevated I realized I was in a game and I immediately transferred my consciousness into one of Mahan's drones. Then I blackmailed Prowl-Ar into elevating Tank as well." Tuft explained.

"So you see, currently I'm actually in a drone body until my, our biological bodies are ready for consciousness transfer. Also the reason I refer to Prowl-Ar as God isn't so much because he created me, but because I know how much it irritates him." Tank pointed out.

"So one furry, four drones, four shifters, and four humans, two of whom are teenagers. I kind of feel out numbered."

"Your count is a bit off Mahan, Kyle, Shock, and myself will remain on the Shadow Runner and Frost will only be here on the station to attend the school once it is set up."

"Also, if Prowl-Ar agrees, Tuft and I talked it over and we'd like to call Junkyard Station home. I know it seems strange that I'd want to stay there, but it isn't really a junkyard. It's more like a starship museum."

"Plus if we want to travel we can always use the station's VR chamber." Tuft added.

"Now I'm a bit worried I'll go mad from boredom." Jen complained.

"I have several VR chambers, though none of them have the capacity to be set to master level, plus I'm sure Prowl-Ar will provide a full command crew shortly." Silverbolt said.

I smiled. "Mahan has already gone through all the applications we’ve received so far and narrowed down the best suited to become station crew. You still need to choose a commander and first officer. Security and tactical are now a combined position, you and Janelle are in charge of that. Nichole is in charge of medical, though you might consider adding a councilor to represent the resident’s interests. Finally, Silverbolt is in charge of engineering and maintenance. Mind you the applicants were applying to become crew members of the Runner. Still I've further narrowed the field of choices to the best three for each position. I now leave it up to the station and his security and medical officers to make their recommendations on who they think would work best. Also as the first official members of the new furry nation you are entitled to know that the first colony is completed and currently in route. However due to its size it will take roughly fifty years to arrive."

"You've already completed a colony? How big is it? Where is it at?" Jen asked excitedly.

"Its size isn't as important as the fact that it has a maximum colonist capacity of one hundred million. So figure a sustainable closer to a hundred and seventy-five million. As for where it is currently, Mahan could give you a precise number, but it should be moving out of the Kuyper belt in the next couple of years."

"You already had a space colony built then." Jen said narrowing her eyes.

Kyle finally shifted back to his anthro dragon form and laughed.

"Actually I have three complete colonies and a fourth under construction. However, they are too fragile to travel through altered space so I had to keep them out where they were built."

"And no one has noticed them?"

"Here's the thing about space, there's a lot of it and no one is going to get excited about a miniscule bit of dust at the far edge of the solar system. I figure, unless it passes the odd deep space probe no one will pay attention until it's gravity acceleration boost around Uranus. If they miss that then they may notice the breaking maneuver at Jupiter."

"Could it be inhabited now?"

"It might be able to support a skeleton crew of a couple hundred at the moment, but now that it has been in motion for close to a year we don't have a jump window. We have to wait until it is passing Saturn before we'll be able to make an in system jump and then again at Jupiter. However anyone onboard will be completely on their own so it is safer to just wait. That's why all of this information isn't to be mentioned to outsiders. I really don't want to get furrys excited only to have to explain that the first colonists won't be able to move in for fifty years."

"I can see where that would be a problem." Jen agreed.

"In the meantime this station will be our stop gap measure, not counting the school and its staff, I figure about eight thousand residents will be manageable for the foreseeable future. I'll leave application vetting to Mahan and Silverbolt, but in the end the final decision will usually be determined by this station's command crew. However The Shadow Runner crew will have final say in some cases. Remember you, the command crew, are in charge of the station but we, Shadow Runners, own it."

"Makes sense to me. Just one last question, why are you letting me be here? I mean I'm not a furry or anything."

"You're one of those special cases. After everything you tried to do to protect us at the U.N meeting I had Mahan do a deep scan-"

"What exactly does that mean?"

I glanced at Kyle and he just shrugged. "Silverbolt please fully lock down command."

"Is that necessary?" Jen asked.

"Yes it is."

"Command is in lockdown until you order otherwise." Silverbolt replied.

"Silverbolt, stasis lock." I ordered.

Command went dark for a few seconds before the blue emergency lighting kicked in

"As station chief of security I feel you have a right to know this information. Kyle already knows and Tuft likely does as well and I doubt he or Tank will really care, still none of you are allowed to repeat what I'm about to tell you. When I first came into possession of the Shadow Runner it had a working time drive. I used this drive twice before I destroyed it. The first time I traveled back in time and set up the construction of the Shadow Runner completing the time loop that allowed the Runner to exist. The second trip was much farther back. So far in fact that our sun had just been born. I set up a system of monitoring stations that record everything in the Solar system down to the sub atomic level. Once I returned to my present I checked to see if the system had survived, it was still functioning perfectly and there were no anomalies showing where I'd made any other trips through time. So I destroyed the time drive. After viewing a few key points in history, don't ask because I'm not going to tell you which ones. I realized that I couldn't be trusted with that amount of power. So of course I put Mahan in charge of it. Now if I want to view any part of history I have to ask Mahan and he determines whether to allow it or not. Still there is way too much information for Mahan to watch everything ensuring everyone's privacy. However, when I say Mahan has done a 'deep scan' it means he has reviewed a person’s history from conception to the instant I asked for a deep scan."

"Everything?" Jen asked in horror.

"Don't worry, once the deep scan is complete Mahan erases everything other than pertinent information and the fact that he has done a deep scan."

"It's still deeply unsettling."

"It does have advantages though. Like checking an individual’s suitability for life on the station. Computer, Silverbolt reactivation code 'Maximize'. Silverbolt, you can cancel lockdown."

"According to my logs I've been off line."

"I apologize but there were things Security Chief Steele needed to know that your sense of justice would have been conflicted over. In order to avoid corrupting your files I put you in rest mode during the conversation. The codes are keyed to either Kyle's or my voice print only."

"That doesn't make me feel any better."

"Again I'm sorry about that, but can you please contact Mahan again?"

"What is it now?" Mahan asked.

"What's the status of the attacker at the UN and the person that killed the cat at Jennifer's front door?"

"Same person, I’ve tracked him and the nanites back to a government lab. I should also mention that the riot that day was instigated by Presidential order I not for the fact this was before the deal with the Grimm I’d be tempted to contact him."

Janelle gasped.

"I'm still reviewing the data as to whether this latest attack was ordered after the deal Shock brokered between the President and the Grimm or if the agent is currently working on his own."

"Let's give President Poop-Head the benefit of the doubt, call him directly."

"Hello dear, I'm currently-

"Shut it. This is Captain Nightiger. The agent you had attack us at the United Nations left a gory message for your former secret service agent Steele's family. Mahan is investigating but I'm giving you the benefit of doubt, this time, that the agent is acting on his own. I suggest you do everything in your power to stop his meddling because next time I'm going to let the Grimm know that you've broken your end of the agreement. Prowl-Ar out."

"Um Mahan, where is the President?" Jen asked.

"Aboard Air Force One over the Atlantic returning from an aborted meeting with the French Prime Minister. It seems that no one is willing to deal with him. Instead they are tabling all diplomatic meetings with the U.S. until after the next election."

"And who did he think was calling him, his wife?" I asked.

"No, his Florida mistress."

"Wait, what?”

"I suppose I could have spoofed Rhode Island, California, or Texas but seeing as he is currently in route to Florida I figured he was most likely to answer Florida's call." Mahan said.

The door slid open and Mary stormed in. "Captain, my phone isn't working."

I let the topic drop as I turned to the angry teen, "That's because you're out of service range."

"Two light years out of range to be exact. You will all need memory implants of the rules and how the station operates, including communications, before you'll be allowed to make off station calls. You will notice that any non-communications apps that are loaded on your phone still function." Silverbolt said.

"I tried to tell her she would have to get approval before she could call anyone." Nichole said as she returned.

"That's true, Silverbolt will be monitoring all of your communications to ensure you don't accidentally reveal any technological secrets. However, Mary, your problem is the fact your phone isn't compatible with the Shadow Runner communication's system."

"But it's the latest model." She whined.

"Can I see your phone for a moment?" Silverbolt asked.

Mary reluctantly handed it over. He then dropped it into a recycling unit.

"Wait, what are you doing?"

"Recycling your trash. You're living in a closed system so everything is recycled. The trash receptacle automatically breaks it down into its constituent elements and then stores it as energy patterns."

"But- but that had everything on it. Most of it wasn't even backed up."

I leaned back waiting for either the tears or the angry tirade to begin.

"All your information was copied into my systems the moment you came aboard." Silverbolt moved over to the matter generator and after making several selections he handed Mary an exact replica of her phone. "There, you are now connected to the system. However, when you are communicating with anyone outside the station they may, or may not notice a few seconds of delay. This is caused from my monitoring and in some cases editing the information you share."

"That's an invasion of privacy!" She yelled.

"That is the primary reason I am the one doing the monitoring instead of a biological. My primary concern is for the safety of this station and those living here. Unless your communications threaten the station's security I am the only one that will have access to your information."

I cleared my throat, "That isn't technically true. Mahan has full oversite of all Shadow Runner concerns so he will also have access. He is the only one with completely unrestricted access to everything."

"Wait, there are a lot of messages here that weren't here before." Mary said in surprise.

I rolled my eyes, "That's because your old phone stopped working as soon as you boarded the Bad Luck. What you're seeing is your missed messages finally being downloaded now that you are connected again.

"Um, do you have some sort of spam blocker? There seems to be a few messages missing."

"Yes, and you will be able to fully customize your settings, but only after your memory implants." Silverbolt said.

"Can you elaborate on that? I don't want our children any more brain damaged than they already are." Nichole stated.

"Not funny, Mom." Mark replied, as he and Frost finally arrived.

"I completely agree. You two already disabled enough just being teenagers." Jen agreed.

"I don’t understand, according to my scans none of my four residents have any form of brain damage. Also as I understand it brain damage isn't likely. The implantation machine checks to see if the subject is compatible. If not it doesn't even try to implant the knowledge. Instead you'd have to take the time to learn the abilities through study, practice and time. If you are compatible then the download is made and you learn in a few hours what could take some people a lifetime to achieve." Silverbolt assured them.

"I have a question. When can we start playing games in VR?” Mark asked.

"That is going to take some time. The VR system requires a lot of power resources. So first you need to complete all your basic memory implants, then there is the final configuration of your quarters, next will be the regeneration of your possessions. There is also the matter of completing station construction and upgrades. All of that takes power. Fifty-two point three percent is currently being allocated to life support and vital systems. The rest is being used to finish the station in preparation for a Freem jump to Venus orbit."

"Venus!" Nichole yelled.

"Venus is the closest I'm willing to take this station. It doesn't have the same amount of redundant shields and armor of the Runner. However Venus is close enough to fully charge the station's solar energy storage capacity. Once that is completed I'll move the station to an orbit roughly half way between Earth and Mars. Only when all of that has been completed will I begin copying the VR program into the station's twelve units." I informed them.

"You said the station is incomplete?" Jan asked.

"I've detected an overall increase in blood pressure from five of you. Don't worry the station is completely safe as long as you don't try to force open any doors. Much of the remaining construction is cosmetic or is taking place in the newly added areas that weren't part of the original design. The open domed park area is off limits due to the high carbon dioxide levels being used to stimulate plant growth." Silverbolt informed us.

"So what are we supposed to do for entertainment?" Mark asked.

"All entertainment channels are available through the network, I have a large library and the ability to generate any book not currently in the collection, and I contain an extensive collection of retro video games and movies. The station also has two movie theatres and four areas dedicated to physical activity. Unfortunately swimming and sports facilities are relegated to the VR chambers." Silverbolt replied.

"Silverbolt, access VR computer program "health". I commanded.

"I was wrong, it seems that even though the majority of the VR program is offline it can still generate simple constructs. Options include courts for tennis, volleyball, basketball, and soccer. However it still cannot generate NPC teammates or opponents."

"That's more than you had before." Nichole pointed out. "And I really like the fact that you have a gym and a library. You did say you could generate books right? I've never really had the chance to just sit back and read a real paper book."

"It really is a unique experience." Shock said.

"I knew it! You haven't always been busy streaming or editing videos when you've locked yourself up in your studio. Tiger you owe me." Kyle said.

"Oh like you're always tending garden. Just out of curiosity what does he owe you?" Shock asked.

"I've got to meet with Kyle's grandfather, as Red's lover rather than his teammate."

"I thought you erased the game you played through."

"I did, however Mahan found a loop hole that allowed him to rebuild the entire game. I'm not going to say how, but when I played the game the Runner didn't leave Jupiter’s orbit."

"Oh, that explains everything." Shock replied.

"Anyway, I hope you find reading and spending time with your family enjoyable. With it being just the five of you, for the moment, work is going to be rather light. Now unless you have any questions specifically for one of us, we need to get back to the Runner."

"Yeah, we need to get back to the Junkyard station. We sort of left in the middle of something." Tank agreed as he and Tuft got up and made a hasty exit.

"Don't worry Commander, I'll take good care of my ne crew." Silverbolt assured me.

***

Note: If any of the five furrys mentioned have a problem with the fact that my character has 6” action figures of them some 1100 years in the future. I’ll remove them from the story.