98. Brain impact

In this chapter we return to Tusnelda and Martin. Despite their problems, they seem to have found common ground and they fully enjoy their partnership. Later, they are both exposed to some information that requires a personal decision. Don is confronted with something from his past that makes him uncomfortable. It sends him on a defining journey. We will meet several other characters of the story, but before we get there, the chapter begins where we left off. Alice has bought a new blue dress and with that, anything can happen.

Warning about pictures and text with intimate content.

*****

After midnight at The Narwhal Arms in Windenburg

Tonight Alice is at her first gathering with the Partyhouse Club and she is really having a party. It was Matt who introduced her to the club.

She met Matt a few weeks ago at the inn in Windenburg. They have seen each other two or three times since, just for a chat at a cafe. He really seems like a relaxed and nice guy. Just a good friend.

Eva is the uncrowned queen and leader of the Partyhouse club and she really knows how to party.

“Hi Blue, I’ve been watching you through the night and I really think you’ll fit in well in this club,” Eva says welcomingly.

Alice thanks her happily. She’s fine with people here knowing her as Blue. “Thanks, I really love dancing, so I guess I will.” she says with a sweet smile.

At one point, Sam goes up to the bar to order a drink.

She knows from Matt that he has a huge crush on a woman named Katrina, but she’s obviously not here tonight.

It’s so typical for men to hang out at the bar.

She just wants to dance. Party and dance.

Matt comes back to the dance floor and Eva grabs him and kisses him.
The Partyhouse Club has such open boundaries. Everyone seems to flirt with each other just for fun. She likes that.

She and Matt are friends. After the DJ leaves, they stay and talk. She likes him a lot.

“Should we have a drink before we part?” he asks and she accepts.

When they almost reach the bar, he seems to regret it and he turns to her.

Suddenly she finds herself in his arms.

“Do you know that feeling when you just have to hug someone?” he asks.

“Yes, it feels good.” she says and smiles.

She leans into him and enjoys feeling his warm strong body. His hug is tight and….she quickly releases him as if she is about to burn herself.

“We should go now Matthias, are you coming?” she hears Sam’s voice behind her.

“Yeah, I just need to go to the bathroom,” Matt says.

“I’ll have a drink while I wait,” Sam says.

She’s amused by the scene. It’s so typical of men, they always need to keep themselves busy with something in their hands.

*****

She doesn’t quite understand what invisible force is making her follow him. It’s like her brain has stopped working and her body has a will of its own.

She looks back. She hopes no one sees her.

When she finds him at the sink washing his hands, she embraces him and kisses him.

She loves the thrill of pushing to the limit. For the edge only…. It’s just a kiss.

Afterwards she just stands there smiling.

She feels very alive as a lot of little intoxicating bubbles of joy come to life in her body.

Suddenly she finds herself up against the wall.

“You are beautiful. Will you take your dress off for me?” he asks and kisses her neck. It sends a wave of arousal through her veins.

*****

“I think you’re a real naughty girl, aren’t you?” he says in a hoarse whisper.

Is this who she is?

“I shouldn’t do this.” she whispers.

“But you want to?” he says.

She shouldn’t be doing this.

“What’s going on Blue? Should I stop?” he asks.

“No!” she answers.

The truth is that she misses this so badly. She really misses it.

*****

Early morning in Brindleton Bay

When Alice gives in to her desire in Windenburg, she doesn’t find the steamy presence that is currently unfolding in Brindleton Bay.

Life has its lows and highs, and right now Martin and Tusnelda are absolutely at a sparkling peak.

Tusnelda snuggles up to Martin.

“Martin, are you satisfied with your life?” she asks seriously.

“Always with you by my side,” he says softly.

In the next moment, Martin jumps out of bed as quick as a panther.

Tusnelda sits lazily on the edge of the bed, unwilling to leave its cozy warmth.

“What about you, Tusnelda? Will you join me for breakfast?” he asks.

“yeah, I’m on my way.” she replies.

Her body radiates a pleasant relaxation as she slowly moves towards him, looking him straight in the eyes.

His body reacts immediately, and his response is inevitable. She is a very attractive woman.

“We could go back to bed,” she says affectionately.

“Don’t tempt me woman. Aren’t you supposed to work today?” he answers seriously.

She is. With a sigh she accepts that all things come to an end. Even what you desire lasts forever.

*****

As they enter the living room, Tusnelda’s gaze is caught, as it often is, by the painting of the giraffes.

She lets out another sigh.

Martin looks at her intently.

“Is something bothering you?” he asks.

“No Martin. I’m fine,” she says and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

*****

Brindleton Bay, early morning at Hindquarter Hideaway

In the house next door, the morning begins in less joy. A small infant boy cries loudly in desperation over hunger and in his demand for care.

How can such a small human being be so helpless and omnipotent at the same time?

Izumi immediately gives up her sleep and all other personal needs to fulfill his desires.

When the infant has fallen asleep after having his needs met, she goes into the living room. Rasmus has prepared breakfast and is already eating.

“Where is Fabio?” she asks as she looks around.

“He’s out,” Rasmus replies as he continues to eat.

It may not seem very well-mannered, but they have already both learned that one should not postpone what can be done immediately, before an interruption occurs.

Izumi does not seem to take offense as she immediately continues to the kitchen sink to wash some dirty dishes. Their life right now is mostly about practicality.

Rasmus takes Izumi’s hands. He looks sleepy.

“You should have some breakfast, is there anything I should do while you eat?” he says.

“I think I’ll take a nice bubble bath before I eat breakfast. Will you make sure Fabio gets to school on time?” she asks.

In the past, he definitely would have suggested that they could bathe together, but he’s honestly too tired to go through with it.

*****

At the same time in the house next door.

When we return to the house at Dachshund’s Creek we find Martin playing with Fiona. He is still the sparkling man.

He goes to fill the cat feeders when Tusnelda calls him.

“Can we talk?” she asks.

“We can talk, what’s on your mind.” he asks curiously and sits down.

“I’ve thought about it, and I think maybe I was a little too sensitive about Dr. Flex. He seems to have a bit of a hard time communicating, I guess he’s not used to all his clients having a high IQ, but that doesn’t make him unfit for his profession, does it?” she asks without waiting for an answer.

“I did some research online and everyone recommends him. Dr. Flex is truly respected for his results and I might have to realize that I’m not an expert in all areas…”

“No human being is an expert in everything.” Martin says fondly.

“I think it would be better if we went there together as a team. You always seem to keep a cool head and be a better listener. Would you like to do that? Should we book a consultation together?” she asks.

Martin looks at her with an attentive smile. All developmental processes in Tusnelda seem to take their own convoluted paths before she reaches a conclusion. She seems composed and determined.

“Sounds like a good idea.” he replies.

*****

Morning at Hindquarter Hideaway

If you’re looking for Fabio, the climbing frame is always a good place to start. Today is no exception.

Brooke follows Rasmus when he goes out to send Fabio to school. Now that the babies have become part of the household, she has to fight harder for attention.

Rasmus calls out to Fabio as he approaches the climbing frame.

Brooke lets out a loud meow…”Hey Rasmus, can’t you see I’m trying to get your attention?”

Rasmus looks at her for a short moment but continues his venture.

He leans down towards Fabio and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

“Ew Rasmus, your beard is tickling,” Fabio protests.

“It’s time to gather your things and go to school,” Rasmus says kindly.

“Your mother is taking a bath but she asked me to give you a kiss and a hug from her too.” he continues.

“There’s no need, I’m in a hurry.” says Fabio and speeds up.

Brooke looks after him as he runs off. Maybe she was hoping for a little cuddle.

Thankfully, it looks like Rasmus has finally caught his eye on her.

Finally, she receives some off the attention she has been missing.

*****

Izumi has finished her bath and with renewed energy she walks to the treadmill to start some exercise.

The long pregnancy has been hard on her body, which shows in a lack of fitness and a lot of excess body weight.

There is only one way to go and that is forward.

Brooke has had her current need for cuddles satisfied and she happily jumps back onto the lawn. Rasmus has noticed something new that requires his attention.
Right in front of him he sees a very neglected herb garden.

“We should do something about all those weeds, Brooke,” he says.

Brooke eagerly follows him on his way.

The moment he kneels in front of the flower benches, she continues without looking back.

Gardening has absolutely no interest for her. She has a free spirit and many undiscovered adventures lie ahead of her.
Rasmus must do what he finds pleasure in. It’s his choice, not hers.

Ultimate freedom is not a concept that exists in Rasmus and Izumi’s lives for the next many years. Once again, Izumi has to interrupt what she is doing when an infant baby calls for nursing.

Motherhood, however, is a task Izumi takes on with patience, and as she gradually strengthens her bond with her daughter she observes the golden downy hair on her head. That’s when her name pops into Izumi’s mind. Her name is Sif.

Author’s Note: The name Sif is of Norse origin and comes from Old Norse mythology. Sif was a goddess who was married to the mighty god Thor. She was known for her long, golden hair, which was her most prominent feature.

Unchallenged, Brooke continues her excursion down to the beach.

The beach is a treasure trove of scents and piles of seaweed to explore.

Since everyone now is busy with their own chores, we will move on.

*****

In the house at Dachshund’s Creek

Tusnelda and Martin are eating some leftovers for breakfast. They both have to go to work and both have things they want to get done before then.

“Leave the dishes to me, sweetie. You can take a shower,” Martin says with a smile.

Tusnelda watches him as he walks towards the kitchen sink, still smiling.

She’s glad she included him in her thoughts, but his unspoken joy gives her a stab in the chest. What if she disappoints him again?

She shakes off her unpleasant thought and rushes to the bathroom. There’s only about half an hour left until she has to go to work.

*****

Martin is happy that Tusnelda finally seems to understand that her infertility is not solely her responsibility. He decides to go for a run in the beautiful weather and give the treadmill a break.

He runs a longer route up the hill past Rasmus’ house and from there down towards the beach.

He knows Izumi has finally given birth to their twins. A girl and a boy. He should pay them a visit one of these days when everything settles down.

He’s been a little nervous about bringing up the subject with Tusnelda, as she took her miscarriage very hard. Her crisis seems to be completely over now, so maybe they can give Rasmus a call tonight.

Martin slows down when he feels resistance from the sandy bottom.

He walks the last few meters down to the water.

It’s a beautiful morning and he takes a short break while letting his thoughts wander.

The air is clear and he can clearly see Deadgrass Isle, with the lighthouse, on the other side of the water.

It was in this lighthouse that Tusnelda and he had one of their first dates. He will always cherish it as a special memory…..
He was so in love with her and knew that from that day on he would never let her go, no matter what life had in store for him.

He takes a deep breath into his lungs and lets the fresh sea breeze fill him.

When he senses someone standing behind him, he turns around. To his surprise, he sees one of Tusnelda’s alien acquaintances.

“Hey! It’s a nice view, don’t you think?” he asks kindly.

She doesn’t answer him, but the next second he feels a violent buzz in his brain.

It is completely impossible for him to hold a single coherent thought, as he feels like his brain is about to explode.

He feels himself being pushed backwards, losing his balance, but just before his legs give out under him, her brain impact stops.

“You are exactly the man I’m looking for.” she cheers.

“What is this all about!?” Martin asks, confused.

“Let me clarify. I’m Pollination Technician #5, in short, Poly. I am pleased to inform you that my analysis shows that you are physically and genetically free of any defects in your construction. I have found you suitable for fertilization and I therefore look forward to start the construction of a fetus with your participation,” says Poly with a smile.

“You most certainly are not!” Martin exclaims indignantly.

“Let me clarify that I am a married man, and when it comes to procreation, it is solely a matter between my wife and I,” Martin continues in a firm voice.

She doesn’t take the rejection positively and she looks at him with narrowed eyes.

“I’m disappointed in you. You should know it’s an exquisite honor to breed with a virgin pollination technician, but it just shows how ignorant humans are. They stubbornly cling to their primitive ways of life,” she says.

Immediately afterwards she teleports out of sight and Martin looks in wonder at the spot where she stood a moment ago.

Alien’s way of expressing themselves will always be a mystery to him….He must remember to tell Tusnelda about this strange proposal.

For the next several hours, however, Martin is prevented from talking to Tusnelda, as she is now on her way to work. She will stay there until late afternoon.

*****

Morning in Windenburg at the Harbor Quarter Gym

As some may recall, Marcus, in his newfound bromance with Elijah, has invited him to join The Powerhouse Club.

Today is Elijah’s first day of training with the club. Just behind him, Don is seen arriving.

“Hi! My name is Elijah. Do you know where I can find Marcus? I’m here to join his club.” says Elijah.

“So you’re the guy Marcus told us about? Marcus isn’t here but let me introduce myself. I’m Don and I’m a club member myself. Also, I’m a professional trainer, so maybe I can offer you my services?” Don suggests.

Don often has a hard time finding trainees, but this day seems to be his lucky day.

Naturally, Elijah, as a newcomer to the group, shows his goodwill towards such a generous proposal.

Elijah starts by training his thigh muscles by doing some leg lifts on the multi-gym machine.

“You got it! Push, push, and another one!” Don says encouragingly.

Elijah then continues with some exercises for his shoulders and arms. He groans loudly after repeating the exercise twenty times.

“You’re doing well. Take a half-minute break and resume the session with another twenty exercises for your thigh muscles,” Don says.” Don says.

After completing four repetitions of the entire session, Don lets him go for now.

“Woah! That one was tough but I made it!” Elijah cheers.

“Well, the weight load wasn’t that impressive, but you can improve. Now I’d suggest ten kilometers on the treadmill,” says Don.

Elijah gives Don a sharp look. “Where did you say Marcus is?” he asks.

Don actually has no idea so he just continues his mentoring.

“You can follow me. There are treadmills on the first floor and they have the best view,” says Don.

Don jumps on a treadmill and starts it up. He may actually need some exercise himself and thus set a good example.

“I have seen the gym has a swimming pool so I’ll choose to swim instead,” Elijah says.

“Well, that’s up to you. I’ll keep running. See you around, Elijah,” Don replies.

“Yeah, thanks for your mentoring for now.” Elijah kindly replies.

Don actually suffers from thalassophobia. An anxiety about the deep bottomless water he got founded in Sulani for unknown reasons. Therefore, swimming is not one of his favorite sports.

Suddenly, Don glimpses a woman in the edge of his vision who also gives off a sense of discomfort.

He quickly jumps off the treadmill and looks for a way to escape.

“Don! Is that you?” she calls.

Too late. He can’t ignore her.

“Well, hi! …I apologize, but unfortunately I can’t remember your name…. Are you looking for a professional mentor?” Don says smoothly.

“Really Don? I’m Nalani… We made love several times a steamy night in Ohan’ali. I do remember you gave me a very seductive speech.” Nalani says suspiciously.

“Oh I see…” Don says embarrassed.

He blushes as the memory slowly returns… How he used her as an escape from his fear of losing control, but of course he can’t admit it to her like that.

“It was a bad habit I had back then. I’m really sorry.” He says ashamed.

*****

Morning at the beach at Brindleton Bay

After the surprising encounter with Poly, Martin continues his jog around the area.

He is now running down a familiar path towards home.

He runs through the viaduct, leaving the beach behind him.

He continues running briskly until he reaches the front door.

He still feels quite energetic and therefore immediately tackles the domestic tasks.

The laundry quickly gets on the clothesline.

Then it’s time to take a shower.

*****

After the shower, he sits down at the computer to prepare for today’s soccer match.

He analyzes the opponents and makes team lineups. It’s a tough opponent, but the players on his own team are certainly not without ability.

He sits for a while and thinks about the morning’s conversation with Tusnelda. It is obvious that nature may need a helping hand. Tusnelda seems to have come through her crisis well, so he is quite confident about arranging another meeting with Doctor Flex.

Shortly after, it is time for him to go to the stadium.

*****

Midday in the house next door

Izumi is determined to get in shape after giving birth, so she has returned to the treadmill.

“Shouldn’t you be taking a break soon?” Rasmus asks.

“I’ll have to take advantage of both of those little buggers sleeping at once,” she replies.

“Well, as long as you don’t overexert yourself…I’ll make lunch and I’ll call when the food is ready,” Rasmus says and leaves.

As always, Rasmus enjoys cooking.

A moment later, Izumi joins him in the kitchen. Her sore muscles have prompted her to stop training for the time being.

“It looks good, Rasmus. I think I’ve reached my limit for training today. Let me set the table.”

However, she never reaches the dishes as a baby’s cry forces her to change plans.

Sif loudly shows her demands for care and feeding.

Izumi patiently settles into the task of nursing the baby.

She has hardly put her back in the cradle when she hears her son whimpering.

When she puts him to her chest, Sif cries loudly again. She sighs loudly to release her tension. She can’t be in both places at once.

To her relief, she hears Rasmus comes in the door with fresh steps.

Rasmus stands thoughtfully and watches Izumi nursing their son. He shouldn’t be jealous that the two little buggers now get all the intimacy that used to be only for him, but he still feels a pang of longing.

Izumi has more than enough on her hands to worry about his longings, so he quickly shakes the feeling off. He bends down to the crib and gives the baby a clean diaper, while humming some words of comfort.

Izumi focuses all her attention on their son. She watches him closely, searching for his name. Maybe Rasmus can come up with what they should call him.

“I have to go now Izumi. Will you be okay while I’m gone?…Should I call for someone?” he asks.

“That’s fine Rasmus. I can call a babysitter if it gets too much,” she replies.

Izumi goes into the living room to eat the lunch she never got to. She sees that Rasmus has set the table and the food is waiting for her.

Izumi immediately sits down at the table. She is really hungry after her workout.

Rasmus is late for work and rushes past her.

His maternity leave is over and since cooking is his great passion, he is looking forward to returning to work.

He’s so busy that he doesn’t even notice Fabio and Jayden coming home from school.

It often happens lately that Fabio feels completely overlooked and unimportant.

To his relief, it looks like his mother is waiting for him and luckily the two annoying little buggers are asleep.

“Jayden came home from school with me.” he says.

“He is very welcome. Lunch is ready for both of you.” Izumi says smiling.

*****

Izumi entertains the boys while they eat. She kindly asks Jayden about his interests and whether he has any siblings and what he thinks about their school

“We’re going to play in the garden.” Fabio interjects, not wanting to get into a conversation about school right now.

This prompts Izumi to ask, in a very motherly way, if they have any homework?

Jayden politely answers her questions but never gets to the question about homework.

They are interrupted when Brooke jumps up on the table, causing Izumi to forget to dig deeper into the question to scold the cat.

“We are done, thanks for food.” Fabio says, urging Jayden to follow him out.

Fabio quickly walks towards the climbing frame and for the first time he wishes one of the little buggers would wake up and demand his mother’s attention.

He has been tied to a chair for an entire school day, so homework is the last thing he wants to do right now. Especially not when his friend Jayden is visiting.

Brooke looks longingly at Jayden. He seems like a nice boy and she is constantly in need of cuddles. However, Jayden is more interested in Fabio than the cat, so once again it turns out that the attention is unequally distributed.

*****

Afternoon at The Harbor Quarter Gym

Don’s uncomfortable thoughts make him overcome his fear of attending the yoga class one more time.

He hopes it will help him find peace in his restless body. Furthermore, he is curious about what will appear during the dream journey. He can always leave if it gets too unpleasant.

The yoga instructor begins the session by asking everyone to take some deep breaths.

The exercises are a lot more physically demanding than you might think and the students struggle to find balance.

With the greatest ease, their mentor grasps one ankle and leads her leg forward.

Don and the other students struggle to find their starting position by balancing on one leg.

How can an elderly woman display such agility with such ease?

The next exercise is also done on one leg. Their mentor grabs hold of a foot and pulls it up towards her bottom.

Fortunately, this time Don manages to keep up.

Woah! Suddenly Don loses his balance and struggles not to fall.

*****

Thank God, after some more exercises it’s time to end the session with a mindful relaxation.

Don closes his eyes and lets the Yogi’s calm voice guide him on a journey.

Once again he gets a feeling of floating freely. He is, however, fully aware that everything is happening in his imagination and he therefore manages to remain quite relaxed.

“You are now standing at the edge of a forest…. What does your forest look like?… Is it dark and dense or light and open?” says the Yogi.

Fortunately, the forest Don sees before him is light. He should take it as a promise of enlightenment.

“On your way through the forest you hear the sound of water. You walk towards the sound. Maybe you see an ocean or a small trickling spring. Anything is possible. Nothing is right or wrong. What does the landscape look like?….”

Don hears the sound of a rushing waterfall and once again, he sees the man with the broad brimmed hat standing on the edge of a bridge leading over a deep ravine. On the other side, he sees a woman.

“Is there anything or anyone who can help you continue your journey across the water?” continues the Yogi’s calm voice.

As he begins to walk across the bridge, the woman approaches from the other side.

Don’s heart beats fast. She seems familiar.

Then he sees her clearly.

Delphine!

The shock causes him to lose focus and his mounting panic threatens to throw him into the abyss below him.

He feels like he is choking and he is gasping desperately for air.

The calm voice of the yogi leads him back to the dream. He senses a light above a blue sky. He tries to find calm focus on the light by taking some deep breaths.

This time he keeps a safe distance from the man and woman on the bridge.

From a distance he sees them both stop and look at each other in the middle of the bridge.

Then the woman runs back across the bridge and he follows her into the unknown.

When they finally close the distance between them, it happens without resistance.

For the first time in months, Don finds a deep calm. Like a ship that has finally arrived at port after sailing in rough seas.

He recognizes her as a missing part of his soul, and he clings to her body.

“Please don’t let me leave again.” he pleads.

“I won’t.” she replies without words.

The scenery shows a perfect romantic ending as the sun sets behind the forest, but of course she can’t keep her word.

Dreams are made of volatile material and no matter how you try to hold on to them, they are doomed to dissolve.

Don stands up in a daze and sees that everyone except the Yogi has left the area.

As little as it has to do with the facts, he feels abandoned.

He feels so embarrassed.

When he goes down to the basement to take a shower, he feels like it’s not just his physical body moving into the depths. His gloomy thoughts follow him on his way.

*****

Afternoon in Brindleton Bay

Tusnelda has just returned home with an entirely different kind of happy self-esteem. It has been a pretty successful day at work.

Her first task will be to tend the garden and harvest all the herbs. They provide a good boost to the household’s finances.

*****

After a quick shower and change of clothes, she decides to visit Sixam. It has been many months since she was last there and it is always exciting to see what she can find.

She quickly enters the rocket’s control room.

With a familiar roar, it leaves the ground and rises high into the air.

It’s late afternoon and Brindleton Bay is preparing for another beautiful sunset.

From these distances, the world looks so infinitely large and the rocket so vanishingly small.

*****

Late afternoon outside the public hospital

Marcus has had a day off with Jade. They have sent out invitations and made the final arrangements for their upcoming wedding. Now they have just arrived at the public hospital, but this time Marcus is not at work.

They are received by a nice young midwife who welcomes them.

Marcus knows the hospital inside out so he finds his way to the maternity ward with a familiarity.

This time, however, he stops when he, like it was the first time, sees a scan showing some unborn twins. He sweats at the thought that Jade might be expecting twins. May the Watcher forbid it.

Jade settles down on the bed and they both follow the screen in breathless excitement as the midwife begins to comment on what they are seeing.

Jade is quite early in her pregnancy so it’s not something big the midwife is looking for.

Marcus is caught up in his own speculations for a second when the midwife suddenly points to a small pulsating movement.

“There you see your baby’s heart. It looks like there’s one small fetus, but it’s too early to say anything about gender,” says the midwife.

“Does everything look right?” Jade asks worriedly.

“Everything looks completely normal,” the midwife assures.

Marcus breathes a sigh of relief. He has seen so many fetuses in his work as a doctor, but this is the first time he has seen a fetus that carries his genes… It moves him more than he wants to admit.

*****

“How are you, Jade?” he asks, placing his hands on her tiny baby bump.

“I’m fine,” she replies, enjoying his care.

“I love you, little Pea.” he says, kissing Jade’s tiny bump.

“You’re silly Marcus.” Jade says, her voice thick with love.

“I love you too.” He says, kissing her passionately.

She’s actually not sure she’s heard him say those exact words before, so she accepts it all with gratitude.

“Once you’ve got your clothes on, I’d like to ask you out on a date.” he says.

She happily accepted the proposal.

*****

Early evening in Oasis Springs

Valentino is sitting at the chessboard, entertaining himself by trying out some moves. It’s pretty boring playing without an opponent, so he’s considering going down to the local inn to find some company. He hasn’t seen Don since early this morning. He wonders what he’s gotten himself into.

He shouldn’t worry about Don because he’s almost to the front door.

He sees that there is mail in the mailbox.

Don looks inquisitively for the recipient of the letters. They are all addressed to Valentino. Some bills and a letter with no sender. Who would send him a letter, after all?

Don places the letters in a small pile next to Valentino’s computer and continues towards the bathroom to take a shower.

Valentino gets up to prepare their dinner.

He’s making some satay with peanut butter sauce. A dish he’s made so many times that he doesn’t need a recipe.

As he stands in his own thoughts, he can hear that Don has finished his bath.

“Would you like to have a cup of tea with me while the food is cooking?” Don asks.

Valentino immediately senses that he has something on his mind, so he accepts and puts the dish on low heat.

*****

A little later they sit across from each other at the dining table.

“I don’t know how to describe it, but it’s happened again,” Don says with a resigned expression drawn across his entire face.

“What happened again? Is it a woman?” Valentino asks suspiciously, pretending that Don has once again succumbed to a superficial erotic acquaintance.

“Well, you could say that, but not in the way you think,” Don begins.

“I felt drawn to join the yoga class again. Like last time, I found myself on the edge of a bridge in the forest…There was this woman and…well, a man. When they met in the middle of the bridge, he followed her to the other side… Their meeting felt like a release. Like a ship arriving a peaceful harbor after saling in rough seas.” he continues.

“It sounds like a really hopeful vision, Don. A promise that you will be guided to find a peaceful future….Maybe a woman…In visions, both the man and the woman represent a part of your self,” Valentino says eagerly.

“But she really exists. I could recognize her….We had a very strong chemistry but I failed her. I ran away like a chicken because I got scared. She must despise me,” Don says desperately.

“I can hear she means something special to you, Don. When you think about her as a part of yourself, she will be able to forgive you if you can forgive yourself… and who knows… If you really do meet her in the future, then the vision has told you what to do.” Valentino says, smiling.

Don listens a little puzzled to Valentino’s explanation. All this talk about the vision showing parts of himself in male and female form is new to him and sounds quite contrived. He has no doubt that it was Delphine he saw, and the man… was it even him? It could be anyone…?

“Well, I’m going to have some dinner. Do you want to join me?” Valentino says, standing up.

“I’m not that hungry. My head is buzzing so I’ll go for a run on the treadmill,” Don says kindly.

Don has never come very far in his search for his own home. At Valentino’s request, he has gradually furnished the spare room with his personal belongings. In addition to the newly purchased treadmill, there are some photographs from Sulani and a drawing of an airplane he has received from Fabio. 

He changes into workout clothes and starts the treadmill at a steady pace.

At the back wall is an old chest of drawers and on top of it is his trophy. On the wall are his travel document and some photographs Valentino took at the award ceremony.

It is not yet clear when he will leave for the jungle expedition. Sometimes he doubts whether he should go at all, but Valentino stubbornly insists that it will be an experience he will never forget…

If he survives, he thinks with a shudder.

In the living room, Valentino smiles at the thought of Don’s vision. He clearly remembers the day he met Delphine by chance on the coast of Sulani…Suddenly he was drawn into an adventure he had never dreamed of.

Fate has its own ways and there is really a lot between heaven and earth that goes beyond common sense.

*****

Sixam outside normal perception of time and date

Tusnelda has just landed after a journey without any unforeseen problems.

Pollination technician #5 has returned from her earthly research and is already aware of her arrival.

It has been a long time since Tusnelda visited Sixam and she is looking forward to exploring and collecting rare space minerals and whatever else she finds.

Absorbed as she is in her business, she does not notice that she is being observed.

Tusnelda starts by collecting some elements for scientific use.

She also harvests whatever rare plant seeds she can find.

*****

When she later moves down into the underground laboratory, she is greeted by an alien she does not know.

She is therefore a little surprised that this female alien apparently knows who she is.

“Hello Tusnelda. I’ve been waiting for your arrival. I’m Pollination Technician #5, in short Poly, and we have something important to discuss.” Poly greets.

Tusnelda turns in surprise after Poly, who, without waiting for an answer, walks over to a desk to turn on a monitor.

At this moment, the title Pollination Technician doesn’t cause any warning lights to flash, as Tusnelda is more concerned with how the alien knows her name and what scientific question she wants to debate.

Tusnelda takes off her helmet and approaches curiously.

“How do you know who I am? Who did you say you are? ” she asks.

“You can call me Poly. For your information, I have heard a lot about you and how you seem to be stuck in your challenges. I have the solution and I’m sure you will achieve the desired result. Let’s go next door and discuss how it can be implemented,” Poly said eagerly.

Now you might imagine that Tusnelda’s fertility is the overriding concern that preoccupies her. In that case, she should now have understood what is being alluded to, but no.

Right now, Tusnelda is on a space trip, and the only thing that occupies her right now is her scientific research, so she doesn’t have the slightest idea what Poly is talking about.

*****

Poly invites her to sit at the bar. Since Tusnelda is a trained chef, she takes it upon herself to mix a refreshment for them both.

Poly silently watches her work.

While she mixes the drink, Tusnelda scans her brain for different topics Poly wants to talk about, but she can’t think of anything.

She hands Poly the first drink.

“What do you think?” she asks.

“I think this is a most endearing refreshment.” Poly answers.

Tusnelda pours herself a drink and goes to sit next to Poly.

“I’m curious what kind of unsolved research topic you think we should solve together?” Tusnelda says kindly.

“I already have the solution and I have investigated the surrogate’s suitability. He seems to be in good condition to carry out. No genetic defects. You have made a good choice,” Poly says eagerly.

“The surrogate? I have no idea what you’re talking about?” asks Tusnelda in surprise.

“The surrogate who will conceive the offspring, you yourself are prevented from growing.” Poly answers, surprised by Tusnelda’s cluelessness.

“My infertility is none of your business and I’m not looking for a surrogate!” Tusnelda says angrily.

Poly looks back at her with narrowed eyes.

Poly feels a growing irritation. She had expected a completely different joy and gratitude after Nu explained Tusnelda’s problem to her. Instead, she is greeted with an undeserved tantrum….

She turns to Tusnelda and begins scanning her brain, which instantly silences Tusnelda.

For the next few minutes, Tusnelda seems to be at a loss for words and she looks at Poly without a clue of what happened to her brain.

Poly uses the silence to tell Tusnelda what she thinks about her ingratitude and bad character.

“I have seen through you, Tusnelda. Your self-aggrandizement is ridiculous. Your ungratefulness is insulting. Don’t you ever try to ask about my assistance again.” she says angrily.

The harsh words seem to wake Tusnelda up.

“Let me state that I have never asked for any favors,” she exclaims.

“As far as my private affair is concerned, I will most definitely reject your interference. We have nothing more to discuss.” she concludes.

After this farewell salute, Tusnelda leaves the underground laboratory, while Poly remains seated.

*****

Tusnelda is furious. She hates the feeling of being played with like she is a mindless toy.

While she’s still standing, spitting out curses, she hears a sound that makes her turn around.

It’s Poly who suddenly teleports to the surface.

The unexpected interruption wakes her up and suddenly the terrible truth dawns on her. In her blind rage, she has made a fatal mistake and forgotten her airtight helmet in the basement.

“Screech!! I’m going to die. I’ve inhaled poisonous air!!” she screams in panic.

Poly comes closer and stares at Tusnelda in wonder.

“Poisoned air? What are you talking about?” she asks.

“I’ve inhaled Sixam air…it’s toxic to humans, isn’t it?” Tusnelda asks in a weak voice.

“Of course not!” Poly replies indignantly and leaves.

“Hey, stop. You have to explain this to me.” says Tusnelda and follows her…..

“We humans need oxygen to breathe and oxygen is produced by photosynthesis in plants. The formula is carbon dioxide + water + sunlight provides glucose + oxygen. But there are no green plants on Sixam.”

“Why do you think Alien can breathe on Earth? ….We have lots plants on Sixam and they produce oxygen. The color doesn’t matter. Humans are so conceited. They think they have the only right answer to everything.”

“But I just assumed…” Tusnelda says with relief.

“That’s exactly the problem of humans. They have no imagination to understand the diversity of life. Too conceited to accept that there are other ways of living than their own.” Poly says wearily.

With a resigned shrug, Poly retreats back into the underground Alien Center.

Tusnelda stands back, digesting the knowledge that has just been revealed to her. This is a big discovery.

She already imagines how this groundbreaking new knowledge will attract a lot of attention. She may even be nominated for an honorary award for her innovative scientific research.

A new goal is taking shape in Tusnelda’s mind.

She quickly turns towards the portal to earth, turning her back on Poly and the conflict with Poly’s interference in her private affairs.

One has to ask oneself whether Tusnelda even gives childlessness a thought anymore?

Probably not.

Tusnelda is a scientist to the core, and her brain has been ignited with new exciting scientific knowledge to explore. At this moment, she is only concerned with how to collect enough data to prepare for an upcoming scientific thesis. Thus, everything else must give way.

She quickly steps into the portal. She has no time to waste.

*****

Author’s note: I’ve really struggled to finish this chapter. Some sections almost wrote themselves, while others had to be edited and put away several times. I’ve never missed an outside editor as much as I do here. While I was writing, I decided that I had to split the chapter. In other words, the end of the day is postponed to another chapter.

Thank you for reading this far 💖