The rest of the crew broke into hugs, kisses, and high-fives, too. We had achieved the incredible; the Emperor was gone. I imagined impromptu celebrations breaking out throughout the solar system. The riches of the Empire could now be shared with the destitute. Democracy could be brought back. My eyes welled with pride.
After a few minutes, Leanne, who had finished kissing her woman, asked, “Where next?”
It was such an obvious question, but one I had never given any thought. I looked at Tabitha, but she raised her shoulders. “Well, let me see if there is somewhere safe close by. Here, T451, only forty minutes away. It’s a hotel habitat. We can lay low for a while, make sure we’re not being hunted before returning to whatever you call home.”
There were no objections, so I took it as a go.
The joyous atmosphere continued till we were close to our new destination.
The ship’s onboard computer tried to initiate the docking procedure but was blocked. Instead, we received a voice communication from what sounded like an anxious woman. “We have no record of your reservation. Please state your business and where your origin point is.”
I look at the rest of the crew holding my finger up to my mouth. I examined the map of habitat locations, trying to determine a plausible origin point.
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