Transformations

Home Again

Transformations…

Chapter 18: Home Again
 

“I’ve called ahead and alerted Thomas and Elaine of our arrival,” Saber says over the com-link. “Thomas said that the rooms should be ready for us when we arrive.”

“We’re not that far now, are we, Saber?” Fala asks.

“No, a few minutes at best,” He replies as the colony comes into view. “I’ve just received permission for us to land in the same area as we did before. Let’s go.” They all follow him into the landing bay, and meet on the ground. Prime Minister Collins is there to greet them when they arrive, “Captain Rider, how good to see you again,” he says as he nods to the rest of the group eying the ships. “Are these new ships?”

“Yes Sir,” Saber replies. “The former Bismarck ship was destroyed during the last attack on Calvary Command; this is the new model of the Bismarck. It’s quite different from its predecessors.”

“So I see,” Collins replies astonished. “I take it you are here to see about your estate?”

“And to get some rest Sir,” Saber replies.

“Very well, I hope you enjoy your stay, Captain. We have the same vehicle ready for you; the keys are in the ignition.” Collins says, nodding towards the parking lot before he turns to go about other business.

“Thank you Sir,” Saber says as Collins leaves. He turns to Fireball, “Are you driving again?” He nods in reply. “I’m going to take Steed, I’ll lead the way.” They load up and he mounts Steed and they head off towards his estate. They arrive a short time later, Thomas, Elaine, Josh, and two smaller boys are waiting for them.
 

Saber dismounts as the others get out of the van. “Hello, Thomas. How have things been here?”

“Very well Sir,” Thomas replies. “We have had a few... developments” he adds with a smile.

“Oh?” Saber asks curiously.

“I think the anxious Cowboy should go in and see his wife. They need to talk privately,” Thomas says quietly, a smile on his face.

Saber turns back towards Colt, “Hey, Colt, come over here, please.”

Colt comes over, still looking around a bit anxiously. “Yeah?” he asks anxiously.

“I think you should go in and see about Robin. Josh will make sure your things get brought in.” Saber replies to him quietly. Colt nods and rushes into the house. Saber chuckles to himself, shaking his head amused.

“Is everything all right, Saber?” Fala asks, coming over to him and looking towards the direction that Colt left towards.

“Everything is fine. Colt is just worried, I think a bit needlessly,” he replies a bit amused. Josh comes over to the pair. “How are you doing, Josh?” Saber asks as he approaches.

The boy nods in reply, “I’m doing well, Sir. Robin is doing better than she...had been. At least she’s not sick all the time now.”

Saber nods, “If it is what I’m thinking, then she should start feeling better about now.”

Josh grins and nods, “It is, Sir. She’s nearly four months now.” Josh says quietly.

Fala’s face lights up as she realizes what is happening. “Is Robin…?”

Josh nods, “Yes, Ma’am. We found out about a month and a half ago. She has been dying to tell Colt, but she didn’t want him to be distracted from his duties. I had to threaten to tie her up to keep her from calling him.”

Saber laughs, “I’m not sure you would have succeeded, Josh. She seems to be a rather strong-willed woman.” Josh laughs. “She’d have to be to live with Colt though.” Saber adds quietly.

The others come over to see what the commotion is. “Is something wrong, Saber?” April asks.

Saber shakes his head, “Nothing is wrong. Let’s go and get settled, then in about an hour, we can meet for dinner.” Everyone nods and the crowd disperses, leaving Saber alone with Thomas and Elaine.

“How are you, Saber?” Elaine asks quietly, looking him over carefully.

Saber smiles and leans down and kisses her cheek, “I’m much better than I was the last time I was here. I still have bouts of depression, but I feel that I am improving and moving on, as I know they would want me to do.”

Elaine nods and smiles, “I am glad to hear that. I have been worried. Your eyes looked so distant the last time I saw you.” She pauses and meets his eyes, “Now I actually see a bit of mischief when I look at your eyes, a lot more like your old self.”

Saber nods, “We have seen some really bad things these past few months, but we have also seen how people with a common goal can pull together to overcome anything.”

“Let’s head inside Sir,” Thomas says as they put Steed in the back. “Dinner won’t be much longer and I’m sure you would like to rest a little.”

“Yes, let’s head inside. I’m sure everyone is a bit curious as to what is going on with Colt and Robin,” he remarks lightly.

“They will find out soon enough. As soon as you look at her it’s obvious,” Elaine says happily. “Of course when we first realized what was wrong, she was a little upset,” She adds.

“Why’s that? I would think she’d be thrilled,” Saber asks as they enter the kitchen area.

“I don’t think it occurred to her that it was a possibility, to be honest. She seemed to be in shock. But, the next day, it was like she embraced it fully and we had to keep her from trying to call Colt to tell him. I thought Josh was going to have to physically restrain her a few times,” Elaine says amused.

Saber shakes his head, smiling. “It seems things haven’t been dull for you here. I am grateful that you were fine letting them remain here, especially given Robin’s current state. I’m afraid that we may yet have to leave them here a while longer.”

“They are welcome here as long as you wish them to remain here, Sir. This is your house, and we will do as you request. They have been very agreeable guests,” Thomas says.

“Oh, at some point, I would like to talk to both of you about some questions that have regarding myself,” Saber states, eying the pair carefully. They glance to each other and then back to him and nod a bit nervously. “You’ve done nothing wrong,” Saber adds, noting their hesitation. “The questions I have are just about me and a few things I have learned about myself. It’s more of a curiosity to see if you were aware of certain situations that occurred a long time ago. I have learned that I am different than a lot of people, and I have learned the reasons behind it. I would like to discuss these things with you later this evening, if possible.”

Elaine nods, “I’ll answer anything that I can, Saber. I don’t promise that I’ll have much information for you.”

He nods, “Thank you, Elaine. I’m going to head up to my room now. I’ll be down in a little bit.” He heads up the stairs to his room, closing the door behind him.
 

Thomas looks to Elaine, “I wonder what that’s all about?” She shrugs. “Well, I suppose we’ll find out eventually. Perhaps when he sits to talk with us, we can broach the subject of relocating him to the master’s quarters.”

“Let’s see what his state of mind is before saying anything. It may still be too soon, Thomas.” Elaine says. Thomas nods in agreement. “I’d better go and finish up dinner.” Elaine says and heads off.
 

A little while later, Saber comes down and finds nearly everyone sitting in the common area, waiting for dinner. “Have I missed anything?” he says as he sits down in an empty chair.

Fala shakes her head, “Not really, we’re just chatting about things until dinner is ready. It smells really good.”

Saber smiles, “I figured it was getting close to time, the smells are stronger than earlier, it’s why I came on down.” He looks around and notices that Colt and Robin are absent from the group. “Has anyone seen Colt since we arrived?”

“Not since you said something to him and he took off for the house.” April replies. “We were just discussing whether someone should go and check on them.”

Saber shakes his head, “Leave them be. I’m sure that we will see them when they’re ready to come out.”

Everyone talks a little longer, but stops abruptly when Colt and Robin enter the room. Robin is showing just enough to be obviously pregnant. “Sorry for taking off earlier,” Colt begins as he looks around the room, everyone suddenly realizing why he’s been otherwise occupied. Colt grins, “I take it ya’ll have figured out why Robin hasn’t felt like talking to me.”

April gets up and goes over to Robin and hugs her. “How far along are you?”

Robin laughs. “How long have you been gone?”

April thinks for a minute, “Ohhhhhhh. So just before we left….” She laughs and turns to Colt, “I suppose you have a reason to want this over with even more quickly now.”

Colt nods, “I’m really glad that they are here, and not with us; especially now.” He adds, looking towards Robin. “I’m glad that they were here when she started with the symptoms, I don’t think too many people at Calvary Command would have been much help.”

“Thomas and Elaine have been very wonderful to me, Saber.” Robin says, “Thank you for allowing Josh and I to stay here.

Saber comes over to her and smiles. “Stay as long as you want. I think you’re safer here than at Calvary Command anyways, especially now.”

“Why’s that?” Robin asks a bit worried.

Saber immediately regrets his last words, “Well, let’s just say we have made Merla a bit, angry.”

“Yeah, we wasted her base. As soon as we can, we’re going back to finish her off. We’re just waiting for Orb to be ready.” Colt adds. “It’ll be fine. But I am glad you and Josh are here, and not at Calvary Command.”

Robin nods, a bit nervously, but says nothing else. Several people come and offer congratulations, and they are all sitting around and talking about the upcoming birth and preparations to be made when Elaine enters the room, “Dinner’s ready.” Everyone migrates to the dining area and eats.
 

A few hours later, most people have dispersed to bed or other rooms, so Saber enters the kitchen. Looking around, he only sees Elaine. “Hello, Elaine. Is Thomas nearby as well?”

Elaine looks up as she finishes the last of the dishes and nods, “He’s in our study, Saber. You can go on in. I’ll be there momentarily,” she adds as he nods and knocks lightly on a door before entering into a den.

Thomas is sitting near the fireplace reading, he looks up when Saber knocks then enters. “Ah, I figured you’d be here soon, Sir.” He says as he stands up to greet Saber. Elaine follows in behind Saber, closing the door behind her.

“Please, both of you sit down.” Saber begins as they all three sit down. He looks between them for a moment, trying to figure out how to begin, “How much do you know about my past?” he asks, getting a confused look from both of them.

He sighs, not sure how to continue, “All right, how about tell me about everything that happened with my parents before I was born up to just after I was born.” He prods, hoping to get some type of reply.

Elaine studies him for a moment, “Saber, is everything all right? Why would you ask such a strange question?”

Saber is quiet for a moment, “Well, I have recently learned that I am different than most people.” He begins.

Thomas smiles, “Do you think you were adopted or something?” Saber shakes his head. “I promise you, Saber, adopted you are not.”

He sighs, “No, it’s just that…well…are you familiar with the term ‘coordinator’?” he asks.

Thomas and Elaine look to each other, before returning their gaze back to him, “I think I heard your father mention something about a coordinator at some point, but it was in passing, I don’t think he was referring to you, Sir.” Thomas replies. “What is this about?”

“I am a coordinator. I am genetically altered, pre-programmed, if you will to be less prone to illness and become more skilled than someone who isn’t a coordinator.” He pauses, allowing the information to sink in.

“But how? When? I was here when your mother was pregnant with you. It was a perfectly normal pregnancy, Saber.” Elaine quarries.

“That’s what I’m trying to figure out. I want to know if it was done on purpose, or if I am one of the ones that the parents didn’t know their child had been tampered with. I know that mother and father had trouble conceiving and had gone to get treatment. Perhaps it happened then?” Saber asks quietly.

Elaine studies his face for a moment, “Your mother did have a couple of miscarriages before she had you. They both wanted a child, and after several years with no luck, they told us they were taking a vacation for a month or two. When they came back, your mother was pregnant with you. I always assumed that getting away from everything is what helped, but perhaps they got medical help, that doesn’t mean that you are different. They still loved you, Saber.”

“I know they did, Elaine. I also know that biologically they are my parents. My question is whether or not they purposefully allowed my genes to be altered or was it done without their consent. I suppose it’s more a curiosity than something important to anyone other than myself. It won’t change who or what I am now.” Saber replies.

“I remember when you were small that your father noticed that you seemed more, intelligent that he thought was normal. We always just said that you were lucky. He never said anything about you being considered different, even when you began your fencing lessons and became an expert at that so quickly, he was just proud that you seemed graced with the abilities. He was a bit over protective of you when you were younger though, perhaps he suspected something, though he never voiced his concerns to me.” Thomas says.

Saber nods, “Thank you for sharing what you know. I’m sure it seems pointless for me to even be asking, but I feel that just knowing might help me come to terms with it.”

Elaine looks at him for a moment, “It doesn’t make you any less human, Saber. You still have free will and you have emotion, two things that separate humans from other creatures.”

Saber nods and smiles slightly, “Not the first time I’ve heard that lately.”

“Hopefully not the last time, either.” Elaine quips. “Now, stop feeling like you’re some freak and enjoy your differences.” She pauses then looks at him seriously, “I do have a question for you, though it might embarrass you and if so, tell me to butt out.”

Saber looks at her curiously and smiles, “What is your question? If I know the answer, I’ll tell you what I know.” Elaine stumbles for a moment, not sure how to ask. Saber chuckles, “You’ve always been direct, so just ask.”

Elaine smiles and takes a breath, “Okay, fine, are you able to have children? If you ever find anyone that you’d want to with, eventually. Or does that genetic thing prevent that?”

Saber smiles slightly, “I actually had the same question. The doctor I talked to told me that everything works as it normally would. The only difference would be that any children I have would be resistant to illness and probably excel at the same things that I do. Or if I somehow ended up with another coordinator, any children we had could inherit traits of both of us.”

Elaine relaxes and smiles, “So even after everything you haven’t ruled out finding someone else?” she asks quietly, almost immediately regretting speaking as she watches his reaction.

Saber looks down for a moment before once again meeting her gaze, “Not entirely.” He replies, barely audible. “If I happen to meet someone at some point, and we hit it off, then I suppose it’s a possibility. But I don’t plan on actively pursuing anyone.” He adds, still barely above a whisper.

Elaine nods and looks at him sympathetically, “I shouldn’t have said anything. I’m sorry.”

Saber shakes his head, “It’s all right, Elaine. It’s something that occasionally I think about, even though it upsets me still at times. I am trying to move on, and if I just avoid a subject because it sets off a raw emotion, I can’t move on. So honestly, it’s all right.”

She nods slightly. “I still didn’t mean to upset you, Saber.”

“I know it wasn’t your intention. You meant well. It’s all right.” He looks to the clock on the mantle. “It’s rather late, I think I’m going to go and rest. I’ll see you in the morning, all right?”

They both nod and stand up, walking with him to the door. “Good night, Sir.” Thomas says as they return to the kitchen.

“Good night.” Saber replies as he goes into the common room and heads towards the stairs.
 

“You’re still up? I thought you went to bed hours ago.” A voice says from a darkened corner.

Saber turns towards the voice. “Funny, I could say the same thing to you, Your Highness.”

“I couldn’t sleep, so I came out here.” Fala replies.

Saber heads to a nearby chair and sits down. “Are you all right?”

She nods slightly, “I just can’t help but feel that something is about to happen.”

“A premonition perhaps?” he inquires.

She shrugs, “Perhaps. Keith says to just enjoy the peace while we can. I’m trying to, but…”

“The feeling keeps nagging at you.” He finishes for her. She nods. “I understand. I have the same feeling. I don’t think this is over and I feel like I need to be ready to bolt at any moment. Sometimes I wish we had just finished her off completely. I could have gone in and killed her myself.”

“That wasn’t the goal of the mission, Saber. And by doing so, you could have jeopardized the whole mission. So I am glad you didn’t make such an attempt. We weren’t in a position to do that…at that point in time.” Fala says quietly.

Saber nods, “I know. I’m just rambling. I suppose the stress is starting to get to me, as well as everyone else. God only knows if Colt will even come and fight with us now. He’s been inseparable from Robin since we arrived.”

Fala chuckles lightly. “He’ll come, especially if we tell him that if he doesn’t he could be conceivably putting her life and the unborn child’s life at risk by not fighting.”

“Point taken,” Saber replies, chuckling slightly. “A bit harsh, but effective.”

“War is never easy. And telling him that is just stating the facts. It’s not like we’d be lying to him.” Fala says quietly.

“True.” He replies. “I can’t believe it’s nearly three in the morning.” He says sounding fatigued. “I suppose I’m still not used to the change in time. No wonder Thomas and Elaine looked so tired.” He mumbles to himself.

“So that’s where you’ve been all this time?” Fala asks curiously.

Saber nods, “Yes, I had some things I wanted to discuss with them. I think there was a few things that they wished to discuss, but by the time we got to that point, we were all too tired to continue our discussion.”

“Ah. I’m sure you aren’t exactly excited about that.” Fala says wryly.

“I think I have an idea of what they want to discuss already. It’s one reason I was ready to get out of it for the evening. I’m not ready to allow what they want me to do.” He replies.

“And what would that be, if I may be so bold as to ask.” Fala says.

“I’m sure they want me to take over my parent’s section of the house. Something I don’t think I can handle just yet.” He replies quietly.

Fala nods, “I understand your hesitation. I know that once Keith and I marry I’ll have to take over the suite that belonged to my parents, but until then, I can’t bring myself to go into there.”

“Why once you’re married?” Saber asks confused.

“Because that is when I’ll be crowned Queen; until then, I can get away with sleeping in the quarters that I do now…when I’m at home.” Fala replies.

“I see. I suppose it makes sense.” He chuckles, “I wonder what they’d say if I told them they could move me into my parent’s quarters once I get married?”

Fala laughs, “They’d probably want a date.”

Saber laughs and shakes his head, “Something I couldn’t give them.” He sighs, closing his eyes. “At least I can laugh at it now.” He adds quietly.

“I can't believe we've been gone so...oh no.” She says a bit surprised.

“What's wrong?” Saber asks concerned.

“I just realized something.” She replies.

“What?” He asks.

“We're supposed to get married in less than two weeks.”

Saber laughs, “You forgot you're supposed to get married?”

“We've had a lot going on recently. Time just sort of slipped away.” She says slightly defensively.

“Ah. I can attest to that. I can't believe it's been nearly six months since my parents were killed,” he replies quietly. “Although there are times it seems a lifetime ago.” He adds barely above a whisper.

Fala watches him for a moment, “Do you think you’ll ever…?”

He looks towards her, “Ever what?” he asks.

“Fall in love again?” she finishes quietly.

Saber sits for a while, his eyes closed, thinking, “I suppose I’d be lying if I said ‘no’…”

“But?” She persists.

He nods slightly, “But, as I told Thomas and Elaine earlier, I’m not going to be actively looking for someone. Although I suppose it’s possible that I could meet someone. I’m just not sure if I’d be…willing to allow someone to…”

“Get that close to you again?” Fala asks.

Saber nods. “Yes, exactly.”

“I understand that. You seem to be guarded as to whom you will say certain things to. I’m sure that you only discussed certain things with Sincia that you wouldn’t discuss with just anyone.” Fala says.

“Yes, there are things that I can’t bring myself to discuss, things that I muddled through with her, things that I don’t see myself talking about to anyone other than the person I choose to share my life with.” He says quietly. “I have been able to have rather frank discussions with you, some of the time, I later ask myself why I said some thing or another, but I can’t explain it. I finally decided that if I say the wrong thing, you would tell me.” He adds almost inaudibly. They sit in silence for a while, neither one willing to give in and go to bed. A little while later, they hear footsteps coming down the stairs.

“Over here, Keith.” Fala says quietly.

He turns in their direction and walks over. “Have you been up all night?” She nods and he turns to Saber. “You too?”

Saber nods, “Yes, I was heading up to attempt sleep about an hour ago, and ran into Fala and we started talking.”

Keith shakes his head. “You both should be resting. You don’t know when something could come up and we need to be clear-headed.” He turns to Fala, “Why don’t you try and get some rest, I can come up if you’d like, or just leave you to rest in peace.”
 

“If you wish to come and lay with me, I won’t complain. But I know that you like to get up early, so I won’t make you come and rest with me. I was just too awake to lie down before. I am really tired now.” Fala says.

“I actually am still tired. I haven’t adjusted to the change of time yet. I woke up enough to realize you weren’t there, so I came to make sure you were all right.” Keith says.

Fala nods. “Then let’s go and get some sleep. I doubt anyone else will care if we’re not down here first thing in the morning, especially when we tell them we need to pack up to head back to Altea.”

“What for? Has there been an attack?” Keith asks concerned.

Fala shakes her head, hiding a smile. “No, but I bet we get in trouble for not being back until right before our wedding.”

“Have we been gone that long?!” Keith asks.

Fala nods. “Yes, we have. I'm sure Raible is not happy. But, I need some rest, so let's rest up before we break the news to the others. We'll see you later, Saber.”

Keith nods. “Goodnight, Saber. Try and get some sleep yourself.”

He nods, “Goodnight, to you both.” Saber replies. Fala and Keith head upstairs, Saber hangs back a little sitting in silence for a bit, eventually heading upstairs to his room.
 

Later the next morning most everyone is down stairs when Keith and Fala come down.

“Good morning, you two,” Lance quips smiling.

“Good morning,” Fala says as she looks around the room. “It looks like most everyone is here. I suppose Saber is still asleep?”

Colt shrugs. “I haven’t seen him today. He wasn’t at breakfast, but neither were either of you.” He adds with a smile.

Fala smiles back. “We were up late and busy packing.” She replies, ignoring his implication.

“Packing? What for, Princess?” Lance asks.

“Well, we need to head back to Altea.” Fala replies. “The wedding is not far away, and I’m sure that Raible is not happy that we aren’t already there.”

“Have we been gone that long?” Hothead asks.

Keith laughs. “That’s exactly what I said when she told me last night.”

“I figure we’d leave after lunch, so that everyone has time to pack” Fala adds.

The others nod. “All right, it won’t take long to pack, Princess. We’ll be ready.” Lance says. Shorty and Hothead nod in agreement.

Fala nods, “Thank you. I apologize for the short notice.” She says as she heads towards the kitchen, leaving Keith and the others in the common room talking.

“Good morning, Your Highness.” Elaine says cheerfully. “Can I fix you a bite to eat, you slept through breakfast.”

Fala smiles, “Good morning. I was coming to see if you had some fruit or something. I was up far too late and over slept.”

Elaine nods, pulling a bowl of fruit from the fridge. “Here you go,” she says, placing it on the table and indicating for Fala to sit down.

“Thank you.” She sits down and eats a few bites as Elaine busies herself in the kitchen. “Ms. Elaine, have you seen Saber this morning?”

Elaine looks up, almost concerned. “No, Your Highness, I haven’t seen him. I knew he was up really late talking to you, so I wasn’t too worried, but I can go and check on him if you’d like.”

Fala shakes her head. “No, it’s all right. He seemed okay when I went to bed; I was just surprised that he wasn’t already up. He tends to be an early riser.”

Elaine nods as Thomas enters the kitchen. “Good morning, Your Highness. How are you this morning?”

Fala nods, “Good morning, Thomas. I'm doing well.”

“We were just discussing that no one has seen Saber this morning. Have you seen him by chance, Thomas?” Elaine asks trying to hide her concern.

Thomas shakes his head. “I've not seen him personally, however, I don't remember seeing his horse in the back when I was out there earlier, so perhaps he's gone out riding. That seems to be a favorite past time of his lately.”

Elaine nods. “That would explain no one having seen him. I just hope he's all right.”

“I think he is doing better than he was last time he came here. I feel more confident of that after our discussions last night.” Fala says as she finishes her fruit then heads back out to the sitting room, where Keith is sitting talking with Colt, Robin, Fireball, and April. “I take it the others went to pack?” She asks.

Keith looks up and nods, “Yeah, a bit begrudgingly, but they are packing.”

Colt laughs, “I don't think they want to leave. I can't say as I blame them. It's nice here.”

Keith nods, “Yes, it is. This reminds me a lot of Altea. Everyone seems friendly, and willing to help where needed.”
 

They continue talking for a while when Saber comes into the room from the kitchen. “There you are.” April says as he enters the room.

“I was unaware I was missing.” He says absently as he sits down in an empty chair.

“Is everything all right?” Fala asks.

He nods, “I had some things to take care of. I figure that since you are leaving, we will have to head back to Calvary Command, so I needed to get the estate in order. I don't think I will be here much until this is all over, and maybe not much after that, other than vacations and such.”

“Ah. I figured you'd say that, Saber.” April says.

“Say what, April?” He asks.

“That you don't plan to live here full time after everything is over.” She replies.

“I'm just not sure I'd like staying in one place for any length of time. I know that could change, but as things are right now, I don't see a change for me for a long while.” Saber says quietly. April nods, understanding.

Fala sighs, looking towards the clock. “I wish all of you could come with us.”

April smiles, “If times were different, we could.”

“But not with all of the uncertainty going on right now.” Saber adds.

Keith nods. “I know what you mean. It feels like we need to be ready for anything, but we can't just put our normal lives on continual hold. If we did, then Merla would win anyways.”

Saber nods. “Precisely. Unfortunately, with you leaving, we will need to head back soon, so as not to leave them unguarded for too long.”

“What? It seems like we just got here, Saber.” Colt complains.

Saber looks to him and Robin apologetically, “I know you want to be here with Robin, Colt, but if Merla finds out that GoLion is not around, that could significantly increase the chances of another attack on Calvary Command. And with Orb still trying to make repairs to their ships, they are also vulnerable. That leave us in a position to be a sort of guard for both places, and the longer we stay here, the more we risk Merla trying to attack here, to draw us out. I don't think you'd be willing to risk everyone here, would you?”

Colt looks to Saber and his expression hardens, “No. I don't want anyone here at a higher risk.” He replies, placing his arms protectively around Robin.

Saber nods, “Then you understand why we need to leave.”

Colt nods. “Yes, I do. When do we need to leave?”

“I figure we should leave tomorrow, that way, you have time to say your good-byes.” Saber replies, then adds, “That should give me enough time to finish the last bit of business I need to see about.” The GoLion crew comes down the stairs carrying their luggage, and placing it on the floor at the bottom of the landing.

“All right Princess, we're packed and ready to leave when you are.” Lance says.

“You are at least waiting until after lunch, aren't you?” Saber asks.

Fala nods. “That's what I told them we would do.”

“It shouldn't be too much longer before lunch, and I'll drive you to your ships after we finish, if you'd like.” He replies.

“You don't mind?” Fala asks.

Saber shakes his head, “Not at all. I can do that, and a few things I need to see about while I'm there, before we leave tomorrow.” Fala nods and Saber stands up. “I'm going to talk to Thomas and Elaine, I'll let everyone know when it's time to eat.” he says as he heads towards the kitchen.
 

He enters the kitchen to find Elaine busy fixing lunch. He looks for Thomas, but doesn't see him. “Is Thomas around, Elaine?”

Elaine looks up and smiles, “He's in the study of our quarters, Saber.” She replies looking him over carefully.

Saber nods, “Thank you, Elaine. I'm going to get him, so the three of us can talk briefly.” He goes and knocks on the door to their quarters before entering, the door closing after him. He goes into the study area just inside the door, “Thomas?” he says, seeing Thomas looking over some papers.

Thomas looks up and sees Saber. He places the papers down on the table beside his chair and stands up. “Ah, you're back. Is everything all right, Sir?”

Saber nods, “Yes, it is. The GoLion team is leaving after lunch, and the rest of us, minus Robin and Josh, will be leaving tomorrow. This may be the only time you and Elaine can speak with me before we leave. I know Elaine said you had a few more questions, and I have a couple of things to tell you as well.”

Thomas nods and stands up, coming over to Saber. “Shall I get someone to finish lunch up so we can talk?”

“Do you have someone else capable enough to handle it?” Saber asks a bit surprised.

Thomas smiles and nods, “Of course Sir. We can't afford to starve if Elaine is sick.”

Saber chuckles and shakes his head, “I see your point. It would be better to be able to speak here, as opposed to the kitchen.”

“You sit down, Sir. I'll go and see about getting someone to finish up so Elaine can join us.” Thomas says as Saber goes and sits in a chair.

A few minutes later, Thomas and Elaine enter the room and sit down. “So, what is it you wanted to discuss, Sir?” Thomas asks.

Saber looks between them a moment before replying, “Well, I want you to know that I have set it up for you both to have the same authority you had before to handle the money and daily operations of this estate. You have access to about half the assets, in addition to your salaries. You have the power to hire as you see fit. I won't be here much to manage things, so I am entrusting everything to you. This should be a similar arrangement to what you had with my parents.”

Thomas and Elaine look up to him in surprise. “Half of the assets, Sir?”

Saber nods. “Is that not sufficient?” He asks, not sure.

“It's more than sufficient. Your parents had us run this place on a third of the assets, and we rarely needed that much.” Thomas replies.

“Well, you have a few more wards than you did before.” Saber says.

“Wards, Sir?” Thomas asks.

“Robin and Josh.” He replies. “Wards would be the correct term, wouldn't it?”

Elaine nods slightly, “I suppose so. Although it typically is used for minors.”

Saber nods, “Well, we are going to have to return for a while to Calvary Command. I feel that we have been pressing our luck staying here as long as we have, and I don't want to run the risk of drawing the battle here and risking even more people. The GoLion team must return to Altea for a little while, so we wouldn't have the back up that we have now.”

“Is everything okay on Altea?” Elaine asks.

“Yes,” he smiles, “Princess Fala and Keith are to be married soon. They should have already returned to Altea. They lost track of time, with all that has been happening.”

Elaine smiles, “Well, at least it is for a happy reason that they return home.” Saber nods and Elaine watches him for a moment, “There were a couple of things I wanted to bring up with you, Saber.”

“I know, Elaine. It's one reason I wanted to be sure we had this chance to talk. So, speak freely, no one else is here but us.” Saber replies.

Elaine looks to Thomas who takes a deep breath before speaking, “Well, we were wondering when you would take your place in the 'Master's quarters' as you are the head of the house now. It seems a bit awkward not having someone in the master suite.”

Saber sighs, “I figured that was going to come up at some point. I'm sure you'd rather it be sooner, rather than later, and perhaps you're right, but I'm not sure I can make myself do it.” he says the last part barely above a whisper.

Elaine looks to him sympathetically, “I know that it is hard on you, especially since they were taken so... abruptly, but you are a grown man now, and you should be in the master's quarters since you have been given the title as head of the estate.”

Saber nods, “I know you are speaking the truth.” He sighs and closes his eyes for a moment before looking up to meet Elaine's gaze, “I know this is a lot to ask, but could you possibly take care of it while I'm away this time?” he pauses before continuing, “I suppose you can find someone to take most of mother and father's clothes, I don't see myself ever wearing anything of father's, so perhaps you can donate it. You might ask Robin or Josh if there is any of it they would like, seeing that they left so much of their stuff behind. I'm not sure Robin can wear anything of mother's right now though,” he adds with a chuckle.

Thomas and Elaine nod, “I'll personally see to it, Saber. I want this transition to be as easy as it can be on you. Perhaps us doing it with your blessing, while you're away will make it easier.” Elaine says.

Saber nods slightly, “Thank you for understanding. Is there anything else you wish to discuss before I leave tomorrow?”

“I think you have covered everything we had wanted to talk about, Sir.” Thomas replies. “I do feel that you should know that we won't be using all of the allotment you have allowed us to have access to in the running of the household. I don't know why you thought we needed so much.”

“You want my honest answer?” Saber asks a bit amused. Thomas nods.

A knock is heard at the door and a young woman enters, “Lunch is ready.” She says.

“Thank you. We will be out shortly. Please tell everyone else to go ahead and begin eating.” Saber replies. The woman nods and leaves, closing the door behind her. He turns his attention back to Thomas and Elaine, “I've never had to worry about money, or overseeing anyone other than soldiers. I have no clue what it takes to run a household. I went through the paperwork and such, I knew how much mother and father had allowed, but things aren't exactly the same as they were then, there have been more guests for an extended period than there usually was when they were here. For just those type of reasons, is why I decided to increase the household allowance. If it's used, that's fine, if you don't need it, then it's there for another time if it's needed. I trust you and Elaine. I don't feel you will do anything unnecessary.”

Thomas nods, “Very well then, Sir. We will do as you have requested.”

Saber stands, followed by Thomas and Elaine. “Let's go and eat something.” Saber says as he heads for the door.

“You go on and join your friends. We'll eat later.” Elaine says, following him to the door.

Saber looks back like he's going to say something, but doesn't. He nods, and heads out to the others in the dining room. He enters as everyone else is in the middle of various conversations.

“Hey, you made it to lunch, I see.” Lance says as Saber sits down beside him. “I thought you were skipping out on us.

“And miss the chance to harass you?” Saber retorts.

“Ha ha.” Lance replies laughing. “Is everything okay?”

Saber nods. “I just had some things to take care of,” he says as he begins eating.

They converse for a while until everyone is done and they say their good-byes. The GoLion team loads up into the van, Fala riding in the front with Saber, the others taking various seats. They head for the hangar where the lions are parked. “I wish all of you could be there for the wedding.” Fala says aloud.

“It would have been nice to see, Your Highness, but given the situation, it's just not possible. I do hope everything goes well, and I wish you both all the best.” Saber replies.

Fala smiles, “Thank you.” They hear snippets of conversation behind them, but neither one says much for a bit. “Did you have that talk with Thomas and Elaine that you were dreading?” Fala asks quietly.

“Yes, I did.” He replies.

“And?” Fala asks.

“I told them we are leaving tomorrow to go back to Calvary Command, so they said that while I'm gone this time, they would take care of moving my things into the master's quarters, as well as seeing that my parent’s things are dispersed accordingly. I thought that was a fair compromise.”

Fala nods, “So they seemed to understand your reluctance?”

“I think so. They were a bit hesitant to mention it, but as they said, I'm a grown man, and need to do the right thing.” He replies.

Fala chuckles lightly, “Is that the words they used?”

“Not exactly, but the tone was there. Elaine may as well have said that.” Saber says.

Fala laughs, “What would you have said if she had actually used those words?”

“I probably would have acted the same way as I did. Elaine has always been like a grandmother to me, so I respect her as such. I never knew my real grandparents.”

“It's seems a lot like how I feel about Raible, he's like a Father to me. Although if I had to, I can now overrule any complaint he has about my actions, but I do trust his advice. I know he tries to act in the best interest of Altea.” Fala says as they pull into the parking lot.

Saber nods as he parks the van and everyone gets out.

They all gather close to where the lions are parked. “Thank you for everything, Your Highness, Keith, Lance, Shorty, and Hothead.” Saber says, acknowledging each one in turn. “I know for a fact we would not be here if not for all of you. I am glad we have had a chance to get to know one another.”

Fala nods to him, “We are thankful for your friendship as well, Saber. I am sorry for the circumstances that led to our meeting, but I am glad for the friendships that have resulted. We owe our lives to you as well. We are all bound by that knowledge. We will see you soon.”

Saber nods bowing slightly, “I wish you both a happy marriage.”

“Thank you.” they reply and then they all go to their lions.

“Hey Lance,” Saber says as Lance is getting into his lion.

“Yeah?” he replies, turning to face him.

“Stay out of trouble.” Saber says with a smirk.

“You too.” Lance replies.

“Always.” Saber says as Lance gets into his lion.

The team take off and head for Altea. Saber goes to the office close by and then heads back to his estate to prepare for the following day.