. . a slyph-like body ofa waif. He felt long straight hair tickle his shoulders, back, waist, and thetop of his ass."Ah! Quite pretty," declared Rob...nson. "However, Alec will never do.I think . . . Ariel would be more appropriate for you now!" What have you done to me?" whispered Ariel in her sweet, lilting littlegirl's voice."I think that would be obvious by now, Sweetheart," replied Robinson ina faux, patronizing manner.Then Robinson eyed Ariel's new body in a uniquely critical way. It. I had entered a similar machine twice before for bio-modifications tomake myself more manly and attractive. But going into those z-chambershad been much different from entering this one. Profoundly different.Those modifications had been voluntary. And private, attended by only acouple of technicians. This time was anything but voluntary. And itwas all a show for the public.It was even being recorded. I could see myself on the large screenabove the z-chamber: a big man, well-toned,. He walked backto his apartment, grabbed a pair of scissors from his drawer, and slitthe box open. And felt his body loosed from whatever force had drivenit.Inside was a tall greenish-gray stack of paper. One that was just aboutthe size of ... Will reached into the box and pulled loose one of thepieces of paper.Which turned out to be a $100 bill.Running his finger along the stack, Will was pretty sure there werehundreds of these bills in the box. Lots and lots of hundreds.A few moments later,. .." I have already assessed our battle readiness. Mary has already informed those at the academy of the sacrifice that Captain Brown made. They reported that they are holding ceremonies as soon as we return. They also ask if you will be in attendance." Shelby asked.Derrick was nodding as he thought about Brown. They needed to return as soon as possible. They just needed to conclude their business here first. Then there were all the brain boxes still out there they needed to recover."Tell them.