Still, Matros’ shoulders relaxed. As if to give his own gesture, he set the Vibro-Blade down on to the wet floor. Still well within reach – especially for somebody of his battle expertise. I wasn’t that hopeful that we could all get along forever.

Maybe for short while. Just enough for me to bring in another life into this world.

In the wet coolness of the lab, Matros’ hand was a reassuring warmth. Especially with the changes I felt inside. I wished I had the words to describe what I felt. Only one term and I suppose it was obvious; alien.

A year, hell… months ago, I was straight – even though I really wasn’t. Still, my thoughts were that I’d find a girl and get her pregnant. I didn’t think I would be the one in a tub of salt water while I gave birth. Certainly not on an alien planet or after being kidnapped. The whole thing was crazy with a capital ‘C’. Yet, I had to do this. My son was coming out of me no matter what.

That’s fine. I’m in total agreement. We all want you out. Healthy and happy, but out.

My body shifted again inside, and I grimaced at the ‘newness’ of it. Some of my research was to Omegas and Earth Females. Back on Earth, they used to say every woman was different. They pretty much said the same thing about Omegas – although, there wasn’t as much information. Omegas weren’t always treasured. Well… maybe they were, but they weren’t treated well. Some did but too many saw them as baby makers and nothing else.

Labor, birthing pain and all the rest was something they endured. Most of the population didn’t experience it and hence it wasn’t a concern.

I guess after the disease, the galaxy’s a kinder–

“Augh…” ‘Something’ twisted inside me and I panted as the water shifted back and forth.

Both women spoke in unison. Later, I’ll ask if they had a hive mind or telepathy. “Don’t fight it. If you do, the pain is worse. Just surrender.”

Matros’ voice lowered into a growl. “Volardi do not surrender.”

The tube shrunk again to let me speak. “Jesus,” I cried out. “It’s just a phrase.” I let out another drawn out moan. The closest thing the pain reminded me to was being punched in the stomach. Not as sharp but quick and internal. It felt like something was trying to get out of me because that’s exactly what was going on.

Overall, I like being a guy. I think if I was female, I’d be more prepared for this. The forums I read from Earth, said it was like menstrual pain. I wouldn’t say that was ‘unfortunately’ lost on me, but I didn’t have a frame of reference.