by Diane Rapp
A robot entered the room pushing a cart filled with drinks and cookies. Krystal announced, “Please take some refreshments. As you eat, I’ll continue.” The children approached the servitor robot in an orderly fashion under the baleful gaze of their teacher.
“To preserve cloned bodies an expert on artificial life-support, Dr. Hartman joined the team."
“How’d they get the brains out of the old bodies?” Robert asked, his mouth full of cookie.
Krystal laughed. “I’m glad you asked, Robert. We don’t actually take the brain out of the patient. The clone’s memory is blank so we imprint the clone with the patient’s memories.”
“Like transferring data in computers?” Julie asked.
Krystal nodded. “Originally, the doctors didn’t know about Transfer, didn’t even think of the idea until an accident happened. They were preparing for a heart transplant, and the patient experienced a severe heart attack, his arms and legs thrashing. He knocked one doctor down, and fell off the table—”
“Did he die?” Jeremy asked eagerly.
“No,” Krystal paused for effect, “When the patient crashed into the life-support machinery, the clone on the other table opened his eyes and sat up.”
“Like Frankenstein’s monster!” Harold whispered.
Krystal laughed. “Yes, but it was the patient’s mind inside the clone. He saw the lab, the machines, and the doctors through the eyes of his clone.”
“Wow!” Alicia said. The entire class laughed.
“The doctors got excited. Why replace damaged parts one by one if the whole body could be replaced all at once?”
Robert shook his head. “I’d be scared.”
“The phenomenon was like astral projection, when a mind leaves its body for short time periods. Luckily, Dr. Stewart, who was an expert in astral projection, joined the team.
“Think of it. Each scientist was working independently to perfect components of Transfer. By combining efforts, they invented Transfer. What regulations govern Transfer?”
Thomas said, “A Transfer must be approved by the Institute. Each span can’t be less than fifty standard years except for emergencies. The fee is paid in cash or service contract. Where do they keep the clones?”
Krystal smiled. “In special stasis chambers in a space lab or ship. Let’s go directly to the screening chamber.”
Jenny was setting up equipment. As Krystal met Jenny’s gaze, a wave of despair swept over her. Rocked by the unshielded emotions emanating from Jenny, Krystal grasped the nearest table.
Realizing the problem Jenny whispered, “I’m sorry.” She clenched her fists, fighting for control, and soon Krystal felt normal, freed from sharing Jenny’s distress.
To the children Krystal said, “This is Jenny. She’ll be assisting us today.”
Jenny nodded and continued working. Krystal said, “Angela, please lie flat on the table, and Jenny will show us how scanning works. Try to relax. Watch the monitor as Jenny activates the scan.”
Krystal scrutinized Jenny’s face as the children watched the colored graphs forming on the screen. “You okay?” Krystal asked.
Jenny bit her lower lip. “I need to talk with you! Can we meet?”
Krystal nodded. “After this tour, say 1400 in the lounge?”
Jenny smiled, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye.
Krystal forced her attention back to the group. “A good technician uses empathic skills to enhance the mechanical readings. What can you tell us about Angela?”
The group watched as Jenny’s hands hovered only inches away from Angela’s small body. “Your mother has blue eyes and a tendency to overweight. Your father is balding. Mothers pass the balding trait to male offspring. Your next clone would accept blue eyes. We can make minor changes to hair or eye color, but drastic changes of skeletal structure or skin color cause rejection. We monitor continually to prevent rejection.”
Angela asked, “How can she tell about my mother and father?”
“Jenny and I are both empaths, like most top level medtechs. Empaths merge consciousness into your body’s cellular level to monitor on a cellular level.”
“Wow,” Angela said. “How many spans does it take to become a medtech?”
Jenny said, “A span at the boards can qualify an apprentice, then a span or two in direct contact will sharpen your skills enough to certify talent. You exude empathic radiance, and with proper training, could become a good medtech.”
Angela grinned.
Krystal felt the girl’s pride, like a warm glow. She announced, “Let’s visit the Transfer Lab.”
With the tour nearly complete, Krystal regretted seeing the children leave. She felt empty. My life adds up to a big zero without children. My dreams of children died during the war and now every Transfer I have increases my debt to the Institute. I can never afford to leave the Institute and raise a family. Her chest ached, and she felt lonely.
Jenny touched her arm and Krystal winced in pain at the contact. Krystal’s mental blocks slammed into place, automatically blocking Jenny’s pain. Jenny blinked away a tear.
“I’ll meet you at 1400 hours, Jenny.” Krystal gestured toward the exit. “Follow me, children. The Transfer Lab is filled with delicate equipment, but you’ve behaved so well, I’m sure you won’t touch anything. In this section of the space station, you may switch off the current in your boots. The lab is at ENG.”
“That’s Earth Normal Gravity!” Robert said, ignoring the harsh stare from his teacher.
“Very good, Robert, we appreciate people who respond quickly. Emergency situations call for fast thinking, so you might be a good candidate for station work.” Krystal cast a rebellious glance at the teacher.
“Who will volunteer to help me demonstrate?” All the hands shot up. Krystal chose several children, placing them in position. The overhead lights dimmed. As she described the sequence of events, lights glowed over each position in the room.
“Robert, spread your hands over the patient and then over his clone to compare genetic structure. Angela, watch the monitor for heart rate and respiratory functions. Harold, begin the countdown. Transfer must be completed within two minutes or we could lose the patient.”
A clock glowed in front of Harold’s face ticking off the seconds.
“The Transfer equipment absorbs the mind of Jeremy. At full power the patient’s mental signs flatten, and we direct the flow of energy to the clone. Mental activity registers within the clone and Robert confirms the readings by empathic touch.
“This is the most crucial moment of Transfer. As we withdraw mechanical support, the clone must function independently or experience rejection. The clone opens his eyes and moves on command. Angela confirms all functions are normal before full life-support is withdrawn. Transfer is complete.”
The overhead lights flickered on. Collectively the children exhaled a sigh of relief and giggled.
Krystal said, “Although we simulated this Transfer, you understand the basics. Remember to treat your technician with respect when you come back for your first Transfer.”
Krystal smiled. “Our time is ended. Please follow me back to the shuttle, and I’ll answer questions along the way.”
Resentment radiated from the teacher but it didn’t matter. The children’s joy filled Krystal like a sponge that absorbed water, renewed, revitalized. What a thrill! There was nothing better than igniting the spark of curiosity in a young mind.
Jenny waited in the lounge with an extra cup of steaming coffee. Krystal smiled and sat down. “Thanks, I needed this.”
“I conducted tours last schedule. The kids are great but the teachers are creepy. You suppose it’s their conditioning?”
Krystal shivered at the idea of conditioning. She said, “I knew a tech who suffered a mental breakdown. After conditioning she lost all empathic abilities and finished her assignment on the boards.”
Jenny nodded. “I heard. That’s what scares me.” Her eyes misted, and she stared into h
er cup.
“What is it, Jenny?”
“A top level patient assigned for special Transfer…” Jenny sipped at her coffee. “His name is Jarrack, and he’s deliberately using mind control.”
“Mind control!” Krystal choked on her coffee. Wiping spatters from her uniform, she said, “That’s illegal, report him!”
“I tried, but got reprimanded for my trouble. He’s got immunity and says he’ll get me slated for conditioning if I fight his mind. Truth is…I don’t know how much longer I can block his mind. It’s too powerful.” Tears trickled down Jenny’s cheeks.
Krystal sighed. “Tell me everything.”
“I got pulled from regular duty last shift to prepare a priority Transfer…thought it must be an accident case, a quick cloning and Transfer…the patient was Jarrack, fat, balding, and mid-forty chronologically. I’m good at avoiding roving hands, but he was different, creepy. He didn’t touch me just stared at me…his eyes…they’re filled with menace. He’s evil.” Jenny shuddered.
Hair prickled on Krystal’s neck as she shared Jenny’s feelings. “Go on.”
Jenny gulped a swallow of coffee. “He transmitted standard day-dream stuff. I blocked reception and politely asked him to think of something else. He turned on me. That’s the first time I really felt scared. He said, ‘Soon you’ll be eager to hear my thoughts and beg to feel my touch.’ I couldn’t move! He made me stand there experiencing his vulgar thoughts.
“That night disgusting nightmares started. They were his dreams, and he’s got a twisted mind. During the day I block him, but I’m afraid to sleep. He takes control the minute my eyes close. I need to get away. I’d rather die than have him touch me again.”
“Did he physically attack you?”
Jenny sobbed. “I woke up one night in his bed and didn’t know how I got there. When I tried to leave, I couldn’t move. He had complete control over my body, and I couldn’t stop doing exactly what his mind ordered.” Jenny sobbed.
“Go on,” Krystal said softly.
“He took perverse pleasure in my helplessness. That’s what frightened me. I’m afraid my personality will get lost, and I’ll act like a robot. Jarrack says I’ll go with him, never escape.”
Krystal touched Jenny’s hand lightly. A flood of raw emotions engulfed her, and she broke away with difficulty. “You’re leaving on the next shuttle.”
“How? I don’t have shore leave.” Jenny frowned.
“Take my ID badge. My leave starts today. We’re both blondes and about the same size. People confuse us all the time, so nobody will worry if you go downworld.”
“You’re saving my life!” Jenny smiled for the first time.
“You’re telling the truth, and I won’t allow that monster to hurt you again. Tell me more about his telepathic abilities. He projects, can he also receive?”
“No. He’s headblind. His whole energy channels only project, but he’s so strong.”
“How long until his clone is ready?”
“We’re in the final phase. I monitor him today, and he’s slated for Transfer tomorrow. That’s why I’m so scared. He plans to take over my mind as soon as his Transfer is complete. A new body will make him even stronger.”
Krystal nodded. “How many sleep cycles have you missed?”
“Four.”
“Come with me. The shuttle’s leaving with those children.” Krystal stopped at the nearest comline and her fingers flew over the touch screen. “You’re leaving now. I’ll ship your personal gear later.”
“Thanks, Krystal.” Jenny held out a trembling hand but stopped short of touching. Krystal grabbed Jenny’s hand and poured hope into her friend’s mind. “Get moving!” As Jenny glanced back before entering the airlock, Krystal waved.
Apprehension filled Krystal. Did Jarrack need time to wear his victim down? She felt relieved that she was scheduled to leave on the Zebulon tomorrow and checked Jenny’s schedule.
“Better get to the lab. Can’t keep a top level waiting.” Remembering the image of Jarrack from Jenny’s mind, Krystal cringed. “Better get it over with.”
Inside the examination cubicle, Jarrack and his clone occupied the tables. A shudder rippled through Krystal when she met his dark gaze.
“Who are you?” he growled.
“Your new medtech. Jenny was called away on an emergency, so I’m taking over your case.” Krystal kept her tone emotionless and her expression blank. She forced herself to read the monitor and charts, avoiding Jarrack’s piercing gaze.
He smirked. “Jenny thinks she can get away? She can’t escape my power!”
Krystal stiffened. She assumed an authoritative tone. “I’m a higher level medtech, so your Transfer isn’t endangered by a change of personnel.” She approached Jarrack. “Lie still while I monitor your vitals.”
A hot wave of anger blasted Krystal’s mind with her mental shields fully open for monitoring. She slammed down her shields and blocked the worst of the onslaught. The intensity of the blast left her visibly shaken.
She heard Jarrack’s voice low and menacing. “I could strangle you with a thought.”
Invisible hands gripped her throat, threatening to cut off oxygen. Krystal gasped. “Harm me and your Transfer will be delayed.” The burning in her lungs eased slightly. “I’m the best tech available and you don’t want inferior work, do you?”
Instantly Jarrack curtailed the attack.
With difficulty Krystal controlled her shaking hands, forced herself to breathe. Averting her eyes, she moved, methodically monitoring the clone. The bitter residue of coffee burned her raw throat and she swallowed hard.
“You might be a tasty treat. What’s your name?” Jarrack’s malevolent demeanor made Krystal cringe. “Answer me!”
“Krystal,” she croaked, not knowing why she answered. She could not avoid her final task; she must monitor Jarrack. Forcing her hands to obey her will, they hovered like fluttering birds over his corpulent body. Nothing happened. He lay docile, his eyes half-closed, like an alligator basking in the sun. She sighed with relief as she finished her task and tightly blocked her mind.
“You’ve got fair control, but I’ve conquered better,” Jarrack commented glibly. “If I want you, I’ll take you.”
“You won’t have time,” Krystal stammered. “I’m leaving. I’ll only be here to oversee your Transfer tomorrow.”
Jarrack sneered, “I could change your plans.”
“You can’t countermand Dr. Alexander’s personal request,” Krystal said, and her words had a visual affect on Jarrack.
“You’re going to work for Alexander?”
As words tumbled out of her mouth, Krystal felt more agitated. “I assisted the doctor during the early days.” She tried to stop, but she found herself babbling. “He personally requested my transfer to the Zebulon. A special project requires senior technicians, so I’m important to his plans.”
“I wouldn’t dream of interfering with the good doctor’s plans,” Jarrack said. “I merely felt disgruntled. My technician—though hardly a competent example of this facility—was abruptly changed without advance warning. Please take no offense.”
His manner seemed pleasant, almost servile, but Krystal sensed an underlying threat vibrating in his mind.
He said, “Forget this whole incident. I look forward to seeing you again, my dear.” He held out a pudgy hand.
She recoiled from his touch, turned, and fled the room. Although sound did not carry past the airtight doors, Krystal heard an evil laugh inside her mind as she ran. Reaching her room, Krystal locked the door. A man who could invade her mind, her dreams, now threatened her own safety.
Huddled against the wall, fingers tightly enmeshed in a sleeping cocoon, Krystal exercised tight control, reinforcing her protective mental shields. She took deep breaths to soothe her frayed nerves. Is my fear of Jarrack a reflection of Jenny’s fear? Why is he so interested in Dr. Alexander? The thought of the Zebulon’s impending arrival gave Krystal comfort and r
esolve. She’d stay awake tonight and discuss the situation with Alex when he arrived. She felt glad that Jenny escaped the evil mind. Now Krystal needed to survive monitoring his Transfer.
4 ~ Medical Spaceship Zebulon
Donovan squinted at the printout. “It gets more difficult each trip. How do they expect us to comply with all these regulations prior to debarking?” He tossed the sheet onto the table.
Trenton answered the comline. “Hi, Maggie, what’s up?” Trenton’s face lit with the pleasure reserved for Maggie.
“Is Donovan available?” she asked.
“He’s busy but I’m eager to help you.” Maggie’s familiar round face filled the screen, her green eyes brimming with tears.
“Dr. Alexander went into the spaceport to retrieve his prodigy but something’s wrong. He says we should prepare for a hasty departure.”
“What?” Donovan edged Trenton aside. “Tell me everything.”
“Alex tried to contact Krystal but computer records show she went downworld yesterday. Her last message to us sounded excited about joining the Zebulon!”
“Go on.”
Maggie took a deep breath and tears trickled down her pink cheeks. “Krystal left a coded message for Alex, asking him to contact Jenny in medlab six. He tried, got no answer, and charged in there alone. I tried to contact Krystal downworld,” her voice cracked, “but dispatch claims . . . Krystal’s dead! She committed suicide last night!”
“Send us a hard copy, Maggie.” As the message spat out of the printer, Donovan grabbed the paper. A muscle twitched in his jaw as he crumpled the document.
“I don’t like it!” His face reddened and he looked ready to punch a fist through the wall. “Why would Krystal go downworld the day before the Zebulon arrived? Who is Jenny?”
“I don’t know,” Maggie said in a small voice.