Exeter had no time for a history lesson that blended fact with dubious legend.

  “Every Aeternan knows the story, Caleb. Michael damn well made sure of it – especially the parts where we had to take his word. Why do you tell me this?”

  Caleb crossed his arms and settled into a satisfied grin that said, “Why do you think?”

  “The Jewels have guided us from the beginning. Even before the first of us was born, they anticipated Emil Bouchet. They knew he would create abominations like the hybrids, but also the first immortals. They foresaw the fall of the Chancellory. They designed a new world for a race of children destined to stand on their own.

  “Now, they’re ready to bring about the next planned stage of our evolution. Not just the second generation of Aeternans, but a planet to become the epicenter of this galaxy.”

  In a different setting, Exeter might have deduced his husband had cracked. Yet Caleb didn’t deliver his grandiose prediction wide-eyed or accompanied by theatrical, flailing arms. He laid out his case with a muted, rational delivery.

  “Do you speak for yourself or for the Revivalists?”

  “The proof is in the history and our current transformation. Think about it, X. When you arrived, we were a unified people. Why? Because Michael demanded it. He preached it as our only means to survive. But his act grew thin. He became a paranoid narcissist. A tyrant. By the end, most of us hated him, yourself included. But we couldn’t move against him because of how he helped to save us.

  “The Jewels foresaw his end, and they knew with him gone, we’d become a community of diverse voices. We’d build our defenses and operate as a semi-autonomous member of the Collectorate. All of which would lead to this moment.”

  Exeter played along for the sake of civility.

  “And what is this moment?”

  “The one where the Jewels touch our minds and show us a new way forward.”

  “I see. It’s all part of their long-range plan. Baked in since the planet was called Hiebimini. Yes?”

  “A century, at the very least.”

  Exeter didn’t argue this point. His teams learned enough to validate the case for the Jewels playing a long game.

  “For the sake of argument, let’s assume we can verify everything you said. Why lay out this case now? I came here because you promised important exobiological data.”

  Caleb nodded. “I did, and you’ll have it. But it’s important you understand the stakes. What’s about to happen will require all of us to work together. The Revivalists appointed me to reach out in good faith. There must be give and take.”

  “A transaction.”

  Caleb started toward the outpost.

  “An open hand, X. That’s all we ask. Now for the science.”

  A single rifter sat nearby. No one greeted them within.

  At least I’m not walking into a trap.

  Caleb elevated the holographics, which displayed the results of his tests around Lake Nilsson and compared to ancient microbes found on Earth in the African Basin. He further explained how that ecostem was identical to Lake Nilsson.

  “This should not be possible,” Caleb said. “Yet here’s the proof.”

  Exeter projected composure, but his insides roiled.

  “Have you conducted tests outside the ecostem?”

  “No. I wanted to make sure to get this right. But you have the best exobiologists on the planet at your disposal. They could take this data and expand the range. Yes?”

  “They will, assuming you allow me to leave here with it – along with your samples.”

  Caleb sighed.

  “Of course, Exeter. I’m not your enemy.”

  “No, but you want something in return.”

  “A simple request. In a few days, we will ask you to attend a Full Congregate for Aeternans.

  “A Congregate? Don’t you mean a coming-out rally?”

  Caleb minimized the holos.

  “I knew you’d be a step ahead. I always admired that quality. In case you haven’t noticed, the last of us are about to return home. We’re at an inflection point, much as we were at Settlement. Attend our event and reveal everything your teams have learned. Full transparency, Exeter. It’s not too much to ask.”

  Many casual observers might call it a fair deal.

  Exeter parsed his words with care.

  “What happens if I refuse?”

  Caleb tensed his shoulders and shadowed his eyes.

  “Sentiment will turn. The Council cannot contain the will of our people. Your generosity will prevent a falling out. We’re not unreasonable, X.”

  They weren’t, which posed a conundrum.

  “How many days before this rally?”

  “We’ll trigger a Broad Occip after the IC reps return. We expect five to six days.”

  He ran the calculations. By then, the synthetic protein would have revealed itself planetwide. If its purpose remained unknown ...

  “Then I have to consider your proposal. Hand over the data for our teams to verify. If they corroborate, and we discover evidence beyond the lake, I’ll contact you.”

  Caleb gestured to the holos.

  “Grab them.”

  Exeter activated his wrist pad to receive a data flow. He wrapped his free hand around the holo batch and threw them into his pad like a pinch of salt.

  “And the samples?”

  Caleb pointed to a locked case.

  “Ready for travel.”

  Exeter grabbed the case’s handle.

  “I worry when things are too good to be true.”

  “There’s no catch. You’ve agreed to terms. We’ll expect you at the Congregate.”

  Instinct told Exeter to thank his husband and move on. Yet as he reached the door, a different notion struck him.

  “Caleb, what spurred you to test the zone around Lake Nilsson?”

  He saw a lump in Caleb’s throat.

  “Shoan Gui visited the house.”

  Exeter’s cheeks dropped.

  “When? What did he say?”

  “Three days ago. He spoke in circles, but I unwound it. He wanted me to make this discovery. The next phase is close.”

  Exeter tried not to betray his emotions, but Caleb must have seen through his grimace. Caleb approached, eyes wide.

  “He came to you, too.”

  “Yes. I had a similar experience.”

  Caleb beamed.

  “You see? We’re important to the Jewels. We’re at the center of their plans. Like I said before, our marriage was not a mistake. It set us on a path to ...”

  Exeter raised a hand.

  “Stop. I can believe many things, Caleb, but not what you’re about to imply.”

  Caleb backed off.

  “You’re right. I’m sorry, X. Look, I’m always going to care. And who knows? Maybe somewhere far down the road, we find our way back to each other. For now? We need to play this out. Take what you have and go. I’ll speak to you when I speak to you.”

  What more could he ask for? A full accounting of Shoan’s visit perhaps, but Exeter knew the messenger wasn’t as important as the aliens who sent him.

  He left without another word.

  Inside the Scramjet, Exeter waited a moment before activating the Nav. He stared at the outpost, wondering if Caleb might appear and wave goodbye. This was how twenty-five years ended? With data spools and soil samples?

  When he saw no sign of life, Exeter activated the ship and its worm drive. He relayed a message to Lioness Command, then abandoned the life he thought would last.

  Minutes later, he stepped out onto the hangar deck and made a beeline for the operations center.

  “You won’t believe this,” Exeter told his team.

  Neither they nor Jarvis Pellem did.

  At first.

  Yet in the coming hours, their attitudes altered.

  It would not be this day’s final twist.

  14

  Genoa

  LEAVE THE INTROS TO ME,” Danny told Amadi as they entered the cavernous agricultural compound, where loaders moved goods, and pallets of fruits and vegetables waited, fresh from the nearby fields and orchards. “I go way back with the Chief Harvester. He was friends with Dad. He’ll play ball.”

  Amadi tugged at his blue bodysuit’s sleeves.

  “This fabric is chafing. You should have warned me.”

  Danny scanned the busy main floor and searched for his target.

  “Chill your biscuit. It’s an all-season. Everyone here wears one. It’ll adapt. Plus, nobody wants a fucking whiner. You got a job to do, and do it fast.” The Chief Harvester waved. “That’s Custis Allred. Runs a tight ship. Ask questions, don’t piss around, and you’ll be good to go.”

  Chief Harvester Allred, whose blonde hair featured red streaks, and left cheek sported the tattoo of a Kyriokos timber mouse, put some pep in his step.

  “Twice in one day, Dan. Be careful now. I might have to talk you into staying full-time.”

  “Sorry, dude. I’m a bureaucrat with a cushy office. Say hello to Amadi Lasaviette, ready and raring to help.”

  Allred glanced at his tablet then extended his hand.

  “Amadi, welcome. I was flabbergasted when Dan sent over your profile. Very generous to fly in from Lumen to help us out.”

  Amadi maintained a firm grip and braced a slick smile.

  “My brother-in-law said you were shorthanded after those pilgrim cowards ran home. I felt I could be of more use here.”

  “We’re down seven bodies heading into the height of the season. And we’re the biggest agcom on the planet – twice the size of Promise.” Allred shook his head. “We put out the notice for volunteers, but the problem with these damn pilgrim contracts is we can’t force anyone to shift over. So I thank you kindly, Amadi.”

  “A pleasure, sir. It’s snowing today in Lumen. I appreciate the change of scenery.”

  Amadi played his role as amenable fill-in like Danny outlined.

  “Ah, yes,” Allred said. “We distribute heavily to Lumen this time of year. In fact,” he scanned the tablet, “we have several pallets of apples, pomegranates, and carrots slated for delivery.”

  “My boy loves his carrots.” Amadi chuckled. “I believe you also service my town with blue rose wine.”

  “It’s popular in Lumen and Nero.” He leaned in with a conspiratorial bent. “Don’t tell anyone, but we can hardly give it away in Genoa. Too sweet, they say. Myself? I enjoy a glass with dinner. Eh. Critics. So, what say we get you started?”

  “Show me the way, sir.”

  Allred scoffed.

  “Around here, I’m Custis. Even if I’m reading you the act. Now, your profile indicates an interest in our agtech department. And we do have a need there. In fact, Dan introduced us to a lovely young robotics expert this morning. But her contract specifies her vocation. You, on the other hand, don’t have applicable experience. I’d like to spread you around. Our immediate need is sorting and distribution.”

  Danny thought this might happen. Rules prevented him from locking a non-contract mortal into a set role.

  “Amadi here is a hell of a dude. He’ll handle whatever you need. But when I suggested the ag compound, he expressed a genuine desire to learn all things robotics.”

  Custis raised a brow that spoke of resistance.

  “If you don’t mind some brutal honesty, there’s a high learning curve in agtech. No offense, Amadi. I’m concerned you might find it frustrating. Without a contract, you could leave us on a whim. We’ve had enough runners lately. I want you to feel like a productive member of the team.”

  Custis left little room for a counterargument. Danny prepared one, but Amadi beat him there.

  “You make a world of sense, Custis. I’m probably out of my league with the robotics, but I must confess a hard truth. Frankly, I’m bored. My art is going nowhere, and I need to find a new career, no matter the challenge. You see?”

  “I do. It’s why Aeternans work the Cycle. We try to diversify our reach for the long haul ahead.”

  “Exactly. As I hear it from Dan, you and his father wrote the agricultural regulations for the Promise Region before there were pilgrims. But you’ve spent most of your years in other jobs.”

  Allred glanced at Danny with wistful eyes.

  “Ah, the early years. Heady times. Michael was good to me.” He returned to Amadi. “Let’s do this: We’ll set you up on a rotation today and tomorrow. Tech, sorting, distribution, maintenance, and agronomy. Two hours each. How does that sound?”

  Amadi bowed his head.

  “Fair.”

  “Perfect. I’ll start you with Prof. Strong in robotics. She’s still settling in. You can learn our operation together.”

  “I’m all yours, Custis.”

  Allred shook Danny’s hand and said as they parted:

  “My love to Maren and the girls. Bring them around.”

  “I’m on it.”

  Amadi caught Danny with a quick side-eye and a grin as he followed the new boss. Danny smirked. This guy was a player. Dropping Michael into the conversation softened his target.

  “Nicely done, friend.”

  Danny watched Custis point this way and that as he described the massive operation, which provided food for most of the satellites.

  Play the game and make this happen.

  He trusted Amadi, but only to a point. One slip, and the shit would blow up in both their faces.

  Still, he left the facility upbeat and handled his caseloads in short order, allowing for an early lunch. He surprised Maren with a fresh arrangement of jasmine blossoms and lemon fern. She stuck them in an empty vase and thanked him with a huge wet kiss.

  “They’ll scent the house for days. I love that combination.”

  “That’s not all, babe. I’ll watch after the girls. Take an hour in town. Splurge.”

  A beaming smile retreated.

  “Are you sure? I was getting ready to feed them.”

  “Not today. I’m on the case. I’ll whip up an apple swirl with a fucking chef’s kiss.”

  Maren held him tight.

  “No need. I made their next three meals. They’re in the chill.”

  “Are you an amazing mom or what? Reckon I don’t say it enough.”

  She released the hug and smirked.

  “No, you don’t, love. But I know your heart. There’s none bigger.”

  “Yep. Gets me in trouble sometimes, but not with my babe or my girls. Not ever.”

  Alone with the twins, Danny set their tray on the kitchen table and brought their pram around. Their eyes were open, wandering.

  “My little goddamn miracles. OK, time for the chef’s specialty.”

  Maren had mastered a mess-free routine of spooning their food while the girls remained inside the pram; Danny found this method laborious. He lifted Hallie out of her left slot and cradled her in one arm. Each spoonful proved challenging, perhaps fifty percent in while the rest fell on her bib.

  “Yeah. So, I suck at this,” he told her. “Don’t hold a grudge. OK?”

  He saw a familiar glint in her searching eyes.

  “You got your grandma down pat. But don’t tell nobody, especially your mom. They all say you got Maren’s eyes, but people don’t know what the fuck they’re talking about. You’re a Cooper-Pynn through and through.”

  When Hallie stopped taking her swirl, Danny kissed her on the forehead and returned her to the pram. He reached for Samantha but stopped short. A horrible thought chilled him.

  “Wait a sec. Are you ...?”

  He grabbed Hallie and looked behind her left ear.

  “Holy shit on a stick. There’s your birthmark. Hallie. Good.” He grabbed Samantha and apologized to both. “I hope your mom never dresses you two alike. It’s hard enough already. I’m waiting for my daddy instinct to kick in.”

  He had a fun but messy time with the girls through the meal and changing them soon after. When Maren returned, she found Danny on the bed, sandwiched between the girls and his eyes shut.

  “What a beautiful picture, love,” she said. “I wish I had an easel and a canvas.” She laughed as Danny opened his eyes. “I wish I could paint.”

  “No worries, babe. It’s all about the memories we keep. That’s what Dad always said. In fact, I remember the last year we had him. He said, ‘Danny, you put these good times in a bottle and shut the lid. Then you hide it someplace safe.’ I asked him why. Know what he told me? ‘Because it’s never gonna be better.’”

  Maren inched onto the bed next to Samantha.

  “I don’t agree. I’ve been living my best life since I fell in love with you. Happiness don’t have to end just because you grow up.”

  “True. But there’s a ton of shit working hard to kill it every day.”

  “Not if you don’t let it in, love.”

  She was right, of course. Danny knew common sense when he heard it. What better moment could he hope for?

  One.

  “Time’s up, babe. Back to the grinder for me.”

  “You’ll be home on time tonight?”

  “Sure will. And look, Amadi’s in town on the work stint I mentioned. I’d like to have him over while he’s here.”

  She didn’t respond with the bubbliness he expected.

  “I guess so. But not tonight. OK, love?”

  “Sure.” He climbed out of bed and contemplated her somber answer. “Got something on your mind?”

  “It’s nothing. He’s your brother-in-law. He’s welcome anytime.”

  Her half-smile said otherwise.

  The hell?

  Danny buried himself in bridge advisor busywork, keeping his head down except for the frequent glances at the time. He cleared his day’s agenda and ventured to Avenue 44, where he waited outside guest residence G until his partner turned onto the street.

  “Good one?” He asked Amadi.

  “Illuminating. I can suffer through a few weeks.”

  “Perfect. How about you ask me in so we can discuss your various illuminations?”

  Amadi scanned the street, for which there was no nearby activity.