Should I alert Emily?" No, RVP, I'm just here to...um...um...take a shower," I stuttered, myface burning with embarrassment. Even the A.I. knew what h...ppened!"A long soak in the therapeutic bath would be more beneficial in easingthe numerous muscles, joints, and nerves associated with the detectedactivity, Empress."Who was I to argue with the A.I.'s logic."That would be great, hun!" Spa number two is online and ready for your indulgence, Empress." Thanks, hun," I said as I stood from the edge. Hold. Insert. Release. Close Pod. Internal Pod systems activate. Returning to ship."Making sure the pod was secure, she climbed back into her cockpit. She took one final look around as the snow and wind swirled around the machine. What was that? She frowned as she peered into the darkness. She could hear someone calling in the distance. Then she saw the light. Someone was coming.Quickly, she dropped down onto her seat and strapped herself in. "Canopy closed."She had to go. There had to be no. But best you put your fear aside,” the Kraken said.“Fear is the trail into the shadows. Fear leads to rage. Rage leads to loathing. Loathing leads to misery,” I replied, actually giggling for the first time that day.“By Odin, I spend a century alone, desperate for edifying conversation. And all I get is a Yoda acolyte, a wannabe Star Wars nerd.”“Small beer. I find the love of my life slut-fucking, and my reward? Social intercourse with a Kraken.”“That may be a fairer trade, you know. Look. ‘Yes,’ the pastor answered. ‘I was so hoping that more would come out to help set it up. When we planned this, the residents were to provide the program and the townspeople were to provide the stage set. We were encouraging the mixing of the two. I’m embarrassed that only Billy Zirkel showed up to help me with the set. We barely finished it in time. And ticket sales in the community have been slow.’ ‘Perhaps we shouldn’t have charged admission,’ Geneva said. ‘But I think it’s a shame that only.