The truth behind the lies!
“I see you made it back. What news do you bring me?” “If all went according to plan Nastoyia’s fleet should be in revolt by now, the way to the Capital should be yours for the taking my Lord. Have you captured that annoying Princess?” “She never showed up, she has disappeared. I was hoping you might be able to shed some light on where she might be?” “She never arrived? That is very strange, unless she had an accident I’m positive she would have come to you my Lord.” “I see we can discuss this later after you get to the ship.” The Lord ended the communication. He sat staring into the vastness of space. His mind was not at peace.
*********
“Duhiel, I don’t understand your stubbornness on this issue. She is the one I chose to be with. Now, your sister has accepted that fact why can’t you?” Debeusec’s face shows no emotion. “Father. What proof do you have that Lafiel has accepted this woman? You’ve not spoken with her since you lead her on about that woman.” “I see son so you did inform your sister who she was. I’ll guess her reaction is tied to the silence from her too?” There is still no emotion on Debeusec’s face. “Well father now that you’ve brought the subject of Lafiel up. Yes I told her. However her silence has nothing to do with you or that woman. I think it’s about time you see this.” Duhiel transmits a data file to Debeusec. He watches as his father reads the message. Finally there is a show of emotion on Debeusec’s face. ”Father you spend too much time worrying about that woman, Lafiel and I do need you from time to time. We do exist; we have lives and problems. Which we always hoped we could discuss with you. Since you met her, she’s become your world and for the short term that might be fine. But Lafiel and I would like our father to talk with from time to time. A father that’s focused on our problems not his own pleasures.”
“Where is your sister now? How many others know of this message? Has it made its way back to your grandmother?” The face of a concerned father finally greets Duhiel. “Lafiel is safe at the Hyde fuel depot. Grandmother knows nothing of the message. Lafiel was going to take care of this by herself, she was very insistent on that. Since you knew nothing of it. I would guess father, Lafiel is keeping it a closely guarded secret. I suggest you do the same.” Debeusec’s facial expression changes again it’s a look Duhiel has seen many times before.
“Son I’ve been a fool. I got swept up in things and ignored you and your sister. When you contact her next tell her I support any decisions she makes. Duhiel one last thing my son. That woman as you describe her does have a name and I would be very happy if from now on you refer to her as, Kilo - Commander Rena Kobasch or any proper form of her name. Son, I am, who I am every once and awhile I might need a little steering back. I see neither you nor your sister is afraid to do that. Just next time son; try not to be so blunt. I am your father not some junior office who needs his ears pinned back. For now I will end this conversation I will give great thought to your words my son and I’ll keep your sister’s secret safe. Anything happens you will contact me?” Duhiel smiles, “Yes father I will contact you at the first sign of trouble. Send my regards to Commander Kobasch.” Duhiel closes the link and starts a personal message to Lafiel.
*********
“Baroness Febdash. Do you fear me that much to send Commander Sobbash to do your dirty work? You should be glad you’re on the other side of the system. If the Lashkau could move I’d be twenty meters off your bow at this moment and we would be talking in person.” Atosuryua is planted firmly in the center seat. Her facial expression hides the sudden surge of fear that is coursing throughout her nervous system. “Grand Duchess had you restrained Her Highness and kept her from endangering the entire base. We would not be having this conversation. It’s my understanding that you issued a challenge to her and that was her response to you. I’m warning you as sector commander you decide to jeopardize the safety of the base again and I’ll… ” Spoor explodes. “You’ll do what you third rate Baroness? Just because you’re temporally in charge of this sector you think you’re going to tell me what to do. I’m afraid, not. Trying to keep Her Highness in check, you know neither one of us can succeed at that. I strongly suggest you keep your nose out of other peoples business and concentrate on keeping your command, Baroness. Admiral Kenesh will be here soon. I’m very sure she’ll appreciate this little conversation we’ve had. She might even do some reassignments if push comes to shove, Baroness. Now have I made myself clear Atosuryua? Mind your own business, tend to your fleet and stay out of this. It is no concern of yours!”
“Perfectly clear Grand Duchess. Atosuryua out!” She snaps the link closed. “Find me Commander Sobbash have her report to my quarters.” The first officer turns towards her, ”Admiral, Commander Sobbash is not on board.” Incensed Atosuryua asks. “Where did she go?” The first office replies. “ She received orders from Admiral Kenesh. She took a shuttle and left. She entered the Sord about a half-hour ago Admiral. Her orders were marked classified. She left the moment she read them. The only reason I know that much is I stumbled upon her reading them.”
“She ordered me not to tell you until she had entered the Sord, then you and Admiral Spoor got into that conversation and when you went looking for Sobbash was the first chance I had to inform you of what she’s done. I’m sorry Admiral I should have interrupted you.” Atosuryua looks at him. “It’s fine you did the correct thing. When Sobbash returns have her come to my quarters. I’m going their now. You have the watch first officer.” Atosuryua leaves the bridge and ponders Spoor’s words. It’s a lonely walk.
*********
“Admiral you were pretty hard on her, although she did have it coming to her.” Spoor sat back in her chair, “Did Sobbash make it to the Sord undetected? Kufadis checks. “No one has scanned the area so I would assume she left unnoticed.” Spoor smiles. “What till she finds out where Sobbash went. After the little reassignment statement I’ll bet she’ll be in a panic. Serves her right impertinent little brat. Just how did she make Admiral?” Spoors shake the thought out of her head.*********
Docking with the flagship she proceeds to the bridge. She notices that ships of this design were built for fighting not comfort. The air was stale and tasted of perspiration and the lighting was the bare minimum required for navigation. Entering the lift to the bridge she has to manually enter the deck number. The lack of the system sophistication showed its weaknesses. The door to the bridge opens; she approaches the commander’s chair. “My Lord. I’ve returned safely.” The commander turns in his chair. The lighting is so dim she can hardly make him out but the moment he speaks she knows for sure. “ It’s been to long. I’ve missed you. Since we last talked other issues have come up. I’ll need your advice on those as well.” He holds a data pad in his lap she walks up to his side and starts to read it. “Sorry My Lord it’s been a while. I need a moment.” She finally understands what she is reading. “They’ve rounded up all of our agents with in the Capital, but how?” He turns to the next page. “It seems we were betrayed by our own clone.” He moves to another page. “However he did not live long enough to enjoy his victory, or give our position away. Had he done so the Abh would have been here by now? We still have the element of surprise, if your work was successful. When we go through Sord 577. Victory and the Abh capital shall be mine.” He turns off the pad. “You’ve done well. Now get some rest and change your hair color. I would not want you shot by mistake.” She bows before him. “Yes My Lord as you command.” She leaves the bridge. The Lord turns to the viewer and ponders his next move.
*********
“Admiral.” They both turned to look. “Excuse me, Admiral Bebaus, message from Admiral Kotoponi.” Nefee turns to the main display. “Put her on.” The display flickers to life. “My dear Nefee. We know where she went; there is an ion trail from the shuttle directly leading into the Sord. I figure it was a class J shuttle. They slipped in unnoticed and did a sub light jump to the Sord. The ion signature is definitely UMK. I’ll bet she’s rejoined the Rebel fleet by now. What’s our next move?” Nefee looks around him they were not ready to fight. “Nastoyia did she know we knew the position of the Rebel base?” Nastoyia scans the log. “No. She did not know that information.” Nefee laid his fingers to his chin. “Kotoponi deploy just at the edge of the Sord. The only ships that should be approaching are the reconnaissance fleet coming back from the Rebel base. Make sure that’s all that exits the Sord. I’m moving the balance of the fleet behind the planets in the system. If the Rebels show up you head for the inner most planets we will come in from outer most cut them off from the Sord and slice them up.” Nastoyia tapped him on the shoulder; he turns to her. “It’s still MY fleet Admiral. I think I can deploy them too. You plan is sound but can I give the orders?”
They squared off at each other. “Now children behave, you’re going to battle the Rebels not each other. I’ll move to the Sord and you two work out the details. How long till the Reconnaissance fleet arrives?” Nefee answers, “Twenty hours. They were told to announce their arrival or face being shot at. I hope they remember to.” Kotoponi smiles, “I don’t take pot shots at our own vessels like some commanders I know do.” She closes the channel and her fleet deploys. Nastoyia looks at Nefee. “Just what did she mean by that statement?” Nefee smiles. “Don’t ever surprise me Admiral. It usually proves deadly.” Nastoyia takes a step back. She decides to work things out with Nefee. They work together on a deployment plan.
*********
“Admiral Kotoponi. What are your orders? We are at the Sord.” Kotoponi looks about she gazes deep into the system. “Fan out in an Delta formation. Scan as deep into the Sord as possible. On the first contact F.O.F. them. If there is no answer alert the fleet immediately! Do not wait for information to be reviewed by the command ship. A false alarm is better than no alarm at all.” The fleet spreads out and starts systematically searching the Sord.*********
“Ramaj, we’ve captured all of the people on the list. We caught them by surprise. We’ve gained a wealth of information too. Although it’s going to take some time to sort it all out. Some of its in a code I’ve never seen before.” Ramaj sat in the command center. She misses Kenesh and wishes that she would return but she also knows that the information Kenesh is gathering is as important as the information she has before her. “Fine divide into teams, sort through it as best you can. Anything that looks important have the intelligence groups look at it. Report to me when you have finished.” She closes the link kicks back in her chair and reflects. “It’s too quiet. Where are you leader of the Rebels? You must know by now we know where you are. Are you going to wait for the slaughter? Or do you have other plans?” She gets up from the desk pushes the chair back under it and heads for the recorders office. A cheerful young lady greets her as she enters the room. “What can I do for you?” Ramaj asks for the transcripts that Dusanyu’s clone made before his death.
“Are you looking for something in particular, a certain subject, I ask because there are hours upon hours of recordings, I do have them cataloged if you would like to search through them that way.” She shows Ramaj to a small table she turns on the display and ties in the database. “There you go any questions just ask.” Ramaj starts through the index a group of recording catches her eye. “These five hours of recordings labeled Miscellaneous, just what are they.” She looks at the display. “They are random conversation that did not deal with any particular subject, they are almost ramblings.” Ramaj turns towards her, “Get them for me I’d like to listen to them as soon as possible. When you are able would you bring them by my office?” The clerk nods, Ramaj leaves the room. She goes by the medical wing and gets Doctor Sasoum they return to Ramaj’s office.
“I understand why you brought me here but what do you think we will learn from his ranting?” Ramaj looks at her “There is a piece of the puzzle missing I believe he’s told us something that we have missed. I’ve got to look again I’m being driven to.” Dr Sasoum understands. “Fine I’ll judge his mental state for you but I’ll not interpret anything and don’t be surprise if I suddenly leave the room.” Ramaj understood her request they waited for the recordings to arrive.
*********
“Ah.” That was the only sound she could make. The confusion was still raging with in her. “This should a simple task, but how do I answer, what am I getting myself into. A terran woman would know she would have been trained from birth to expect this. I’m not terran. But I love him. I don’t want to lose him. If I don’t answer do I lose him? I wish I had read more on the subject I don’t know the custom I..”His hands gently touch her face. He’s watched her expressions run the gambit over the past few minutes. Now it’s time for him to step in. “It’s okay Lafiel, I don’t want to rush you. We can talk about his. You look confused and frighten that’s not how you’re suppose to be feeling now. It’s Okay. I can wait for your answer.” Holding her face so gently he kisses her. She responds by wrapping her arms around him. They stand there entwined and she starts to cry. She gently pushes him back. “I..Love you Jinto.. I wan..” He places his fingers on her lips. “Relax Lafiel, I asked you a question and you’re having trouble answering it at the moment. Don’t force the issue, we can talk about it and discuss it. Relax. I love you too, I always will.”
She embraces him looking over his shoulder at the wall, the turmoil still rages, “Lafiel you’re such a proud fool. Why did not you listen to you heart. No you tried to reason it out. Well you should be thankful he truly loves you or he would have walked away.” She finally relaxes as the tears start flowing, in the middle of her sobbing; she silently utters one word “Yes”. They spend the rest of the day together; the topic of the Jinto’s proposal is not spoken of.
*********
“Admiral Kenesh. Commander Sobbash is approaching in a type two shuttle. She’s requesting communications.” Kenesh sits in the center seat. “Put her on.” The main viewer flickers and Commander Sobbash, looking very worn appears. ”Sobbash what brings you out here? Is their trouble at the depot?” Sobbash smiles. “Bring me aboard it’s easier to discuss face to face.” Kenesh smiles. “As you wish Rear Admiral Sobbash.” Sobbash’s faces goes blank and then, “You’re joking Kenesh. Please tell me your joking.” Laughter fills the bridge. “No Admiral. I’m not joking. Your promotion has come through and a command comes with it if you wish. We will speak of this when you get here. Admiral.” Kenesh waves her hand and the link is closed. Sobbash stares at the blank display. Then she muses. “Admiral Eh? Well I won’t be the first Abh Admiral with a drinking problem. Is Samson going to be surprised, ah wait! I’ll show up in uniform and surprise them all. Then they will buy all the drinks.” She docks with Kenesh’s shuttle. They will have a long conversation.
*********
“Noel, Noel! Wake up!” Ekuryua rolls over in bed grabbing her creunoc she notices the time. “Lafiel its zero three hundred. What’s so damn important that you got to wake me at three am?” Lafiel continues. “Get dressed and meet me at the tavern Sobbash frequents. As soon as possible and Noel don’t go back to sleep that’s an order!” She sits up in bed and calls for the lights. “Okay Lafiel this had better be important.” The link was broken she dressed and left the ship. Entering the tavern Noel finds Lafiel sitting in the corner booth. Sitting across from Lafiel, Noel notices a couple of empty bottles. “Lafiel have you been drinking?” She smiles, “Yes I have and I detest being Abh. I should be good and drunk by now but I’m only relaxed. Do you remember the conversation we had just inside the Vorash Sord? The one where you said I was a lot of things but not a criminal?” Noel nods. “You said there were other things that I was, and one day you would tell me? Noel keeps looking and Lafiel continues. “Would one of those things be a pig headed fool? Someone too damn proud to have any feelings of the heart? Am I a idiot?”
Noel’s facial expression changes, “Lafiel what has happened? I won’t say a thing till you answer me.” Lafiel explains everything, from going to the surface of Martine, to meeting Lina, receiving the dress, returning to the depot and Jinto’s proposal. Noel was mystified; this was all new territory for her too. “May I join you two?” Noel looks up Seelnay is standing before them. “I followed Her Highness here earlier tonight, I’ve been sitting in the shadows watching. I was going to approach her that’s when she called you Captain. I’ve heard everything Your Highness has said. I must ask exactly how did you answer Count Hyde?”
Lafiel looks at her. “I didn’t. I could not get the words out. I was and still am so confused I not sure what to do. I’m afraid.” Seelnay sat down and took her hand. “It’s okay. How did he react?” Lafiel thought for a moment. “He was very understanding. He told me an answer as soon as I was comfortable would be fine. We spent the rest of the day together but did not speak of it again.” She thought and took another drink. “Seelnay that question required an immediate answer did it not?” Seelnay smiled. “Normally yes. But in certain cases some time is required to sort ones feelings out on the matter. How did he phrase the proposal?”
Lafiel had no trouble remembering those words she repeated them verbatim. “I know the Abh do not wed or mate for life. If you are truly released from your destiny, then Lafiel Ablïarsec, will you marry me and become my companion for life.”
Jinto’s words moved Noel and Seelnay. It was Noel who spoke first. “You could not answer him? Wow your mind must really be a mess.” Seelnay glared at Noel. “That’s enough Captain stop there. Please.” Noel refrained from further comment. “Are you ready to talk about this Your Highness?” Seelnay inquired. Lafiel poured another one. “I’m not going to be able to sleep until I have a understanding of what Jinto asked. I really would be happy if you explained it to me instead of him doing it.”
Seelnay looks at the tavern owner. “How muck longer are you going to be open?” The owner said about another twenty minutes. Seelnay looks back at Noel and Lafiel. “We need to find a different place to talk and Princess you need to stop dumping that poison in you. I have some refreshments back at my place. Let’s go there. We can talk the rest of the night in peace.” Lafiel finishes the bottle she looks to Noel. “You coming? Or are you going back to the ship?” Noel said she would tag along. The three of them got up and left, leaving a generous tip.
Seelnay’s place was not far away. She fixed some fresh foods, made some teal non and had fresh lope for it. Noel and Lafiel made themselves comfortable. Seelnay starts to talk. She starts with a general statement. “You understand why landers marry don’t you?” Noel is a blank. Lafiel starts to speak, then defers to Seelnay. “Why don’t you tell us? That way there will be no misunderstandings.”
Seelnay started. “Most ancient societies needed a secure environment for the perpetuation of the species, a system of rules to handle the granting of property rights, and the protection of bloodlines. The institution of marriage handled these needs.” Lafiel looks at Seelnay, “So what does that have to do with Jinto and I? The rules of the Empire governs most of that.”
Seelnay continues. “Many people hold the view that regardless of how people enter into matrimony, marriage is a bond between two people that involves responsibility and legalities, as well as commitment and challenge. That concept of marriage hasn't changed through the ages.” Seelnay looks at Lafiel. “I believe this is what he’s after. It’s the commitment and the challenges that he wants a guarantee from you. Now Your Highness that’s where you need to clarify what he wants.”
“Does not religion play a part in this? Lina sent me some information about religion and marriage was mentioned in it as well, and you know how Abh’s feel about religion.” Lafiel looks perplexed. Seelnay smiles. “What I said earlier about marriage was conceived before religion became deeply involved in it. Your Highness, I’m not a religious person but some day I’d like to be married, have the security and comfort of a lifetime partner, maybe have children. You can be married without religion. As long as both parties understand the commitment to each other. You and Count Hyde have made that commitment and you’ve had enough challenges. I don’t think you’ll even need to worry about adopting his last name, which is a custom in some societies.”
Lafiel rocks her head from side to side. “Change my last name? Why? For what reason?” Noel looks at her. “Let’s see, it would be Lafiel Lynn. It’s got a pretty catchy ring to it, don’t Ya think?” Lafiel went to toss her drink at Noel and Seelnay stopped her. “This is my home, you are my guest and you will behave!” She glared at Noel. “You’re sure you’re not related to Admiral Spoor?” Noel flared her nostrils at Seelnay. “No my mother has a little more couth than the good Admiral does.”
Lafiel smiles at her. “Oh Really? Didn’t you have to lock your mother in the brig once?” Noel frowned and Seelnay book in hand takes charge again. “Your Highness read this it’s a History of Marriage, then ask me your questions and Captain would you like another drink or maybe some food?” Lafiel started reading and Noel had an early breakfast. It was daylight on the depot when they finally finished. Lafiel had a lot of things she wanted to discuss with Jinto but first some sleep was in order. Returning to their quarters, she notices that Jinto is gone, there is a note saying he is with Samson. It was from four hours ago. She leaves him a note and retires for the night. It takes her awhile to get to sleep.
*********
Jinto tells Samson of what he’s done. “So, she did not answer you? You don’t seem to be very worried about it.” Jinto smiled. “It’s not like she going to leave me, she just needs sometime to figure it out on her own. She’ll get her questions answered, you can depend on that.” Jinto sips his tea and Samson looks at him in wonder. “Do you know where she is?” Jinto nods. “She’s out getting her questions answered, Noel’s is with her she’ll be fine.” He leaves Samson a bit perplexed. Entering their quarters he spies her note and then sees Lafiel sleeping, he decides not to disturb her and falls asleep on the couch.*********
“Interesting Kenesh. So you’re fairly sure that the Rebels are still convinced that we don’t know where they are?” “That gives Nastoyia the element of surprise. When they come through that Sord and she’ll annihilate them.” Kenesh hands Sobbash a data pad. “She now has a very experienced Chief of Staff.” Sobbash reads the pad. “Oh my, you put those two together? Was that a wise move?” Kenesh nods. “Yes Sobbash they will work together. I’ve seen to that, keep reading it will become quite clear.” Sobbash keeps reading the smile starts growing on her face. It finally reaches it maximum proportions she lays the pad aside. “That’s just priceless, black mail both of them into co-operating, sounds like something Ramaj would do. Then again you two have gotten very close.” Kenesh returns to the conversation. “You brought me tactical strength and personnel reports. Can the Hyde system defend itself?” Sobbash hands Kenesh a file. “Not only can they defend themselves. They actually might be able to mount an offensive.”
Kenesh opens the file it contains the technical specifications on the Lashkau and the Basroil. Kenesh continues to read. She looks at Sobbash. “Who ordered these modifications? Who paid for them? Why wasn’t I notified till now about them?” Sobbash swallowed hard and explained to Kenesh. “The modifications were from the combined efforts of Depot Master Samson, Chief Engineer Paveryua, and Admiral Spoor’s Staff. Count Hyde and Princess Ablïarsec financed the project and as the Princesses Chief of Security, I was not allowed till now to tell anyone of what was being done there.”
Sobbash finishes. Kenesh still had a very angry look on her face. Kenesh finished the folder sat it in front of her the anger slowly left her face. “Okay Sobbash show me these two wonder weapons. I’ll have words with Her Highness when I get there.” Kenesh knew it would be pointless she had never been able to best an Ablïarsec before but she need to state her case anyway just to satisfy her own feelings on the matter. Sobbash presents Kenesh with the initial test results from the Basroil and the projected performance specifications for the Lashkau.
She reads them, as she does, the color drains from her face. “If I had a five-hundred ships like the Lashkau. Their firepower would rival that of the entire Star Forces. Why build such a destructive weapon?” Sobbash shook her head. “You’re going to have to ask them. I’m still in disbelief over the entire project, Admiral.”
Sobbash hands Kenesh the personnel files and status report. Kenesh opens it the first page appalls her. “They are both Ill? I figured Spoor would be recovered by now. But the Princess, Anemic, almost to the point of being unconscious, how, why was I not informed?” She looks at Sobbash. “You were ordered not to?” Sobbash nods. “How soon can they be ready to go if need be, well at least Spoor. I’d like the Princess to sit this one out.” Sobbash takes her hand and opens the file to the last page. “We will need to talk to medical about how soon, as for having the Princess sit on the sidelines you better read that.” Kenesh reads the fake message that was sent to Lafiel. “She knows that the message is a trap, but the wording of it would have sent any member of the royal family into a tirade.”
Sobbash touches her hand Kenesh raises her head they make eye contact. “Admiral the only reason the Princess is here is because of Count Hyde and her medical condition. Decca Commander Ekuryua would have given her command of the attack frigate to carry out her revenge. Kenesh don’t push her. She’s wound pretty tight. In fact she relieved a little tension the other night. How she did it was.” She hands Kenesh the scanning data from the Lashkau and the Basroil pertaining to Lafiel’s game of chicken. Kenesh scans the report her eyes widen. “I see, then she is ready to fight?” Sobbash shook her head. “Afraid not Kenesh. She passed out just after completing the maneuver if she had gone another five minutes both ships would have been destroyed and most of their crews would be dead. She pushed herself past her limits and got away with it his time, in combat however she would not survive, well at least not now.”
Kenesh looks around her they are eight hours from the Hyde depot. Sobbash has dumped a lot of information upon her. She needs to sort things out before she gets there. “Thank you Admiral Sobbash I go through all this information. Why don’t you get something to eat, clean up and get some rest? Should I have anymore questions I’ll ask you before we get to the depot. You are excused.”
Sobbash goes to leave the room. She notices Kenesh localizing the gravity field on the table, and then she sits on the edge and goes weightless. With files and graphs floating with her, she starts reading in detail. Sobbash opens the door to leave; the lights dim behind her. A hot meal a warm bath and to bed for Admiral Sobbash. She will get about five hours sleep it’s the most at one time she’s had in the past six months. This day will prove the most interesting day of her life, her Star Forces career, it will be a turning point that she will reflect on till the day she dies.
*********
The blaring of the general alarm brought him to consciousness. Raising his creunoc to his lips he spoke calmly.”Bridge, what is happening up there?” Nastoyia answered him. “It’s the reconnaissance fleet as the rear most ships were about to clear the Sord. They picked up a large group of space-time shots. We’ve verified them to be the Rebel fleet. I’ve ordered Kotoponi to the inner planets as planned and have dispatched a shuttle thru the short cut to inform Admiral Kenesh. Estimated time of Rebel fleet arrival ten hours.” Nefee sat up in bed he called for his cabin lights. Putting on his boots he heads for the bridge.
*********
“Were those ships I saw?” The navigator abroad the flagship looks at his display once again, it was clear. He saw nothing at the exit of the Sord. “My Lord there are no ship at the Sord exit, just as she has predicted. If the Abh is on the other side they will be blind to our arrival. Your orders My Lord?” A hand pushes the hair from his face and then strokes his beard. “Signal the fleet to attack. When we are about to leave the Sord, launch every mine we have at them. How long till the mine launching point?” The navigator runs the figures. ”About nine hours My Lord.” His hand still strokes his beard, “Very well, go to battle stations in eight and a half hours, until then rest all personnel.” He stands his long cape hides his tall slender build. “I’ll be in my quarters. I suggest all of you should get rest along the way.” The Lord leaves the bridge and heads for his quarters. He falls into his bed and goes into a Very light sleep.*********
“If we can keep up this pace for another four hours we can send Admiral Kenesh a message. She’ll receive it before she leaves the Sord.” The pilot of the ultra high-speed shuttle scans the area. “There just on the edge of the screen Admiral Kenesh’s shuttle. If they are scanning we should be visible to them in twenty minutes.” The communications officer looks around her. “We need to attract their attention to our presence. I know I’ll adjust our F.O. F. code to show we are under attack. It will set off an alarm aboard her shuttle and they will see us.” The pilot concentrates on making the best time through the narrow flight path of the short cut. “Do it, attract their attention, just project the signal forward. Don’t want to leave a trail to be followed.”The communications officer adjusts the response code. She sighs, ”It’s a shame we can’t send a message on the F.O.F. hyper speed data frequency.” She presses the button and the ships identification changes. They both wait.
*********
Lafiel awakens. She finds Jinto asleep on the couch. Getting out of bed she walks to the couch and slips in next to Jinto. “Oh hi Lafiel. You’re awake.” She’s less than an inch from his face. His eyes are still fuzzy she kisses his cheek. ”I figured you’d get into bed with me, why didn’t you?” He tries to move she’s got him pinned in. “I figured you needed some sleep and it’s not to bad here, so what woke you?” She kisses his cheek again. “I was lonely. I missed you Jinto. Aren’t you lonely too?” Jinto opens one eye. It was dimly lit in the room but Lafiel’s features came into focus. Her eyes were half opened and showed signs of recent tears. Then he noticed something, her breath smelled of strong drink. “Lafiel are you okay?” She hugged him. “Jinto you’ve never been mean to me. You’ve never said anything to hurt me. What have I done to deserve someone like you?” Jinto finally got an arm loose. He moved the covers so Lafiel might slip in completely with him. She was settled facing him his arm around her middle their faces inches apart. “You remember when we were on our way to the Gosroth? You sensed it before we left the space dock, you knew exactly where it was at and how to approach it? Lafiel nods. “What does that have to do with you and I Jinto?” With his free hand he moves her hair from her face. “A lot and nothing. You knew then what you were doing, but I knew nothing. When you realized it. You tried your best to console me although we had just met. It’s that side of you, those honest actions that Lafiel behind the hard nose Royal Princess. She’s the one I fell in love with.” Lafiel buries her head in his chest and quietly sobs. In that position is how they fall asleep.
*********
“Well what is this?” The tactical officer aboard the shuttle watches her display change from normal to alert then back to normal again. She trains the rear sensor and sweeps at maximum power. The small shuttle appears emitting a very strange code. “Captain look at this.” The Captain rises from the center seat and looks at the tactical display. “Navigator bring us to a stop. Admiral Kenesh to the bridge. Bring the ship to battle stations.” The ship chimes with the battle alert. The lift door opens and Admiral Kenesh enters. “Admiral, look at this.” Kenesh looks at the tactical display she smiles. “The Rebels are on the move. How long before we can speak with them?” The Captain looks around she scans the narrow corridor. “Since we’ve stopped and they’ve not slowed, I’d say about an hour at the most.” Kenesh smiles. “Very good secure from battle stations. The moment you make contact with them pipe them directly to my quarters.” Kenesh leaves the bridge.
*********
The battle alarm brings her about; she muses about her present position. “I’m in plane space, aboard a lightly armed shuttle, with an unarmed shuttle in the docking bay. This ship just went to battle stations and nobody has summoned me. Well if I’m going to die, I’ll die in my sleep.” She pulls the covers over her head, as the alarm is silenced, she stares at the ceiling. “Just my luck nothing is going to happen. When I awake, I’ll still be an Admiral.” Sobbash quietly curses the Star Forces and falls back to sleep.**********
“Look they’ve stopped. We are gaining on them. Estimated time to communications with them forty minutes. It worked it really worked.” The Communications officer has this proud smile upon her face. It seems forever before the lamp on her console lit. “That’s it we are within range you can slow down if you wish.” The pilot slowed the shuttle; a look of relief came to his face. “Have they accepted the signal?” She stares at the panel the display flashes and Admiral Kenesh’s face appears. “I think they have.” The communications officer said. “Judging by your hap hazard approach Admiral Nastoyia must have made contact with the Rebel fleet.” Kenesh’s face then smiled. “Report young ones. You’ve done well to get here.” The report is read to Kenesh. She orders the shuttle to join with them and they proceed through the Hyde Sord.
*********
Risch had finished attending to the reactor when the general alarm sounded. Still in his envirosuit he headed for a communications terminal. A general alert message was being broadcast from Admiral Kenesh’s shuttle as it enter the Hyde system. Ekuryua had just posted a message for all senior staff to meet in the wardroom at once. Leaving his helmet on the desk he made his way to the wardroom. The gunnery, tactical and communications officers were already there, he entered the room and sat next to the gunnery officer. Ekuryua enters the room “As you were, stay seated all of you.” She proceeds to bring up a display of the Hyde System. The Rebel fleet is on the move, they should make contact with Nastoyia’s fleet in approximately four hours. Admiral Kenesh has issued orders to bring this system to full alert. Now, we do have a problem.” She points to the display. The orbit of the fuel depot puts it in line of sight, with the Sord for the next twenty-three days. This means any defense of the system will have to be at or inside the Sord, we will have little room for error.” The tactical officer clears his throat. “Captain you are assuming that Admiral Nastoyia won’t stop them. My money’s on Nastoyia.” Ekuryua turns the display off and stands in front of the screen. “You are assuming that we have overwhelming odds, we do not. The latest report shows we hold a slight advantage in ships to the Rebel fleet. My guess is some of them are going to be heading this way.”
She turns the display back on. The diagram of the Hyde System comes into view. “All of you study this, I’ve been summoned to the depot for a commanders meeting. Come up with a defense plan for the system. You may confer with Admiral Spoor and Admiral Atosuryua’s staffs. Protecting the depot and the inhabited planets will be our second goal; our first is to stop any invaders from entering this territory. You have your orders. I will be back as soon as possible.” Ekuryua goes to leave the room on her way out she address Risch. “Get changed engineer you’re coming with me.” She smiles and leaves the room. Risch follows her, she waits outside his room as he changes, then they head for the deport office.
*********
Seelnay received the general alarm broadcast and relayed it throughout the depot. She then contacted the inspection ship Seelnay. She ordered them to do one last inspection of the depot and the ships moored there. They were to note any problems, then once finished with the inspection, report and repair any problems encountered. She finally contacted Paveryua. “Are you ready? I’ve moved the tender and cleared the area for one half light second distance as you requested.” Silence followed. Seelnay had gotten used to the delay in answers from him. “We are ready here Seelnay. Monitor the ship for radiation leaks.” The Lashkau sat in orbit operating on reserve power; the modifications were completed now it was time to fire the reactor. A skeleton engineering crew was aboard the Lashkau all in envirosuits and ready at a moment’s notice to flee if the reactor acted up. “Let’s do this, we still got a lot of other things to do and that general alarm means we will be having company soon.” The valves were opened to the water tanks. The reactor filled. When the level was correct the fuel rods were inserted into the reactor. The room filled with an eerie blue glow. The reactor was on its way to becoming stable.
“Switch over from the reserves, operate the ships systems on the reactor power.” Within ten minutes the ship was stable running on it’s own. For the first time since it was towed to the Hyde System ten weeks earlier. “Paveryua you’re a miracle worker.” Samson’s voice rang over the din of the still settling reactor. “Give the Lashkau eight hours to become balanced, then the shields and engines are next. If they work, then you can heap your praise on me!” Samson closes the channel he looks at Seelnay. “Do you think we are going to have visitors?” She nods her head. Samson leaves the office he is heading for Admiral Kenesh’s staff meeting.
*********
The general alarm woke Lafiel. She was still nestled in Jinto’s chest. “Jinto wake up something is happening. The alarm is going off.” She reaches for his arm and looks at his creunoc. Her eyes are still fuzzy; she finally focuses and makes out the message. Jinto hits the floor as she pushes him out of her way. His eyes slowly open to find Lafiel quickly dressing before him. He finally hears the alarm and reads his creunoc. Springing to his feet he starts dressing. They leave their quarters together in a mad dash for the depot. They arrive winded, as Samson is coming down the hall. “You two look like you just got out of bed.” Lafiel shoots Samson a look that stops him from finishing his sentence. They enter and take seats at the middle of the room. Ekuryua and Risch sit next to Lafiel. Noel reaches for Lafiel’s hand. Lafiel takes it and gives it a good squeeze. “Not yet and not now.” She whispers to Noel. Noel nods and takes her hand back.
At that moment Admiral Kenesh enters the room she is accompanied by Admirals Spoor and Atosuryua along with Kufadis. But Sobbash is nowhere to be seen, they all sit at the head table. Samson looks around he still does not see Sobbash. Jinto senses his apprehension and pats him on the shoulder. “Don’t worry she’ll be here, nothing has happen to her. We would have know if it had.” Samson sat back and returned his attention to the front of the room.
Admiral Kenesh stood the room became silent; she surveyed the assembled group. “Before I start this briefing I have an announcement I’d like to make. From the moment I arrived I’ve been swamped with request to name a system commander.” She stares at Atosuryua, then returns to her statement. “I’ve decided on who will be responsible for the Hyde System, I’d like to introduce her to you now.” Atosuryua gets a smile on her face she starts to move.
“Admiral Sobbash will you please come in here.” Atosuryua hits the chair seat hard. From behind the display Sobbash comes into view she sits next to Kufadis. “Admiral Sobbash is in charge of this system and Admiral Spoor is responsible for the defense of this system.” Kenesh looks at Atosuryua. “Admiral Atosuryua will support Admiral Spoor’s attack fleet. She will report to Admiral Spoor.” Atosuryua sat stunned. Kenesh continued.
“I’ve received reports since I arrived of Rebel movements along the entire outer ring. I believe these to be decoy movements to keep our forces spread thin. Admiral Nastoyia is facing their main fleet she does not have superior odds.” The display behinds Kenesh lights up. The chart is of the area between Sord 577 and the Hyde Sord.
Pointer in hand she starts. “Nastoyia’s here, Trife is here and Kotoponi is suppose to be with Trife, however she was cut off from him, she remains with Admiral Nastoyia. Taking into consideration most of the sectors between Sord 577 and the Capital are occupied by forces equal to, or superior to, the Rebel fleet. Their only course of advancement is through the Hyde System and the connection through Vorash to the Capital.” She paused and looks around the room. “If Nastoyia is unable to stop the Rebels at Sord 577 we need to be ready to defend the Hyde Sord. This is an interactive discussion any questions?”
Jinto stood. “You seem to be convinced that Admiral Nastoyia won’t be able to halt the Rebel fleet at Sord 577. She has ten times the ships we have here. I’m at a loss to understand your feelings Admiral.” Jinto returned to his seat. Kenesh though through Jinto question carefully before she answered him. “Count Hyde you ask a valid question which I will answer. We have had a lot of dissension and desertion within Nastoyia’s fleet. Her former Chief of Staff was a rebel spy. We are not sure how much information she gleaned from being attached to Nastoyia’s command structure. So I changed the playing field and the rules. That fleet is under the joint command of Admiral’s Nastoyia and Nefee Bebaus. With Admiral Bebaus being the supreme commander. The Rebel fleet thinks they will be fighting Admiral Nastoyia in actually the will be facing Admiral Bebaus. It should prove interesting. But I see twenty five percent of the rebel fleet surviving and heading this way.”
From behind her Admiral Spoor spoke. “Well then we’ve got a little surprise for them when they get here.” Kenesh turns towards her. “You’re talking about your untried toy moored on the other side of the depot?” Spoor smiles. “So you know about it and the Basroil too?” Kenesh nods. “I’m counting on them, they’d better work. For now we wait for the battle report from Nefee then we can go on from there. Any further questions?” The statement was met with silence. “Very well this ends the briefing. You are dismissed.”
Sobbash rises from her seat and moves towards the center of the room. She sits behind Samson. He greets her with an icy stare. “So this is you little surprise Eh? Admiral?” She leans forward and whispers in his ear. “No. I’m just as surprised as you are. Once this is over I’ll tell you the rest, for now can you still trust me?” Samson’s reflects on Sobbash her look is a genuine one. For the first time in a long time he sees the old Sobbash. Before all the pressure was applied. It’s a look he enjoys. “Okay Admiral. I’ll trust you, of course with your new position and wealth you’re buying.” Sobbash smiles. “You’ve not changed and I guess I’ll not change you. Ready to go?” Samson shakes his head and points to his left. “I want to know the outcome of this conversation before I leave.”
Sitting to his left is Jinto, Lafiel, Noel, Risch, Spoor and Kenesh. Kenesh had been doing most of the speaking till now. “So you did this as an experiment a way to defend the system, for the least amount of money, resources and the Princess knew nothing of it till she got here, is that what you’re telling me Count Hyde?” Jinto took the criticism well. “Yes Admiral I have a duty to protect this system, even though most of its populous despise me it’s still my home world. Just as Lakekafalle is yours and you would do anything to defend it as well. Am I correct?”
Kenesh is taken aback. She had geared herself to argue with Lafiel. However she had never had a lengthy conversation with Jinto before. His logic was beyond question, his reasons sincere. She was at a loss to try to argue the ship development with him. He was well with in his rights as sovereign to defend his realm to the best of his abilities. She accepted the fact that the two of them made a formidable pair she also recalled Ramaj’s warning to her about crossing them. Now she completely understood what she had meant. They worked as a team, each of them covering the others weakness.
She stood in disbelief for a moment then said. “Count Hyde. Are you and Her Highness planning to defend the system too?” Since Kenesh’s opening salvo Lafiel had remained quiet; it had been decided that Jinto would deal with Kenesh’s inquiry. Now that the subject of battle had arisen she was taking more interest in the conversation. Jinto motion for Kenesh to be seated which she did and he stated.
“The Basroil was the test bed for most of the development of the Lashkau. I wanted it to be a present to Lafiel. Now that it might be needed. I can only think of one person who should captain it.” He turns his gaze towards Lafiel. Her eyes meet his, the unspoken word’s flow between them and Lafiel smiles. Kenesh’s watches this and then says. “Well I guess I can’t ask you two not to do it.” She looks at Lafiel. “Ramaj will have my head if anything happens to you. Do you have a crew?”
Lafiel a little dazed looks at Jinto. He is caught flat-footed as well; he never figured Kenesh would give in so easily. A voice from behind Jinto bails him out. “Crewing the Basroil won’t be a problem, as long as Her Highness commands we can find plenty of staff for the ship.” Samson and Sobbash had approached them as the conversation was occurring. They had an excellent listening position just behind Jinto. “I’m in.” Samson said knowing that Sobbash would have other duties. “Paveryua can do the engineering. Seelnay can man the weapons and navigate. Just need a supply officer.” He looks at Jinto who returned his look with a smile. “Anywhere Lafiel goes I go.” Jinto responded.
Kenesh still had a wet blanket to use. “The only way I’ll allow this is if you are medically fit to go and at the moment neither Admiral Spoor nor Her Highness has been released by medical as fit for duty. Star Forces regulations require that.” Lafiel interrupts her. “Blast those regulations Kenesh. If it comes down to sitting on my butt and losing the system, sitting on my butt is not an option. I’m willing to die to save this place. Have I made myself perfectly clear Kenesh? I’m old enough to decide whom I can love. Where I want to live and how I’ll die. Dying here is not my first choice, but watching this system getting destroyed is not an option either. If it comes down to it I’m fighting Kenesh. I’m a solider first and I guess I always will be. You can give that message to my grandmother too.” She looks at Jinto. “Can you accept that?” Quietly Jinto nods his head.
Kenesh waves her hand towards them. “I understand your position on this matter and I will abide by your wishes. I want to reserve the right to modify my orders pending the outcome of the battle at Sord 577.” An agreement was reached they split into groups and left the meeting room. Samson and Sobbash were seen heading towards the tavern. Kenesh, Spoor and Kufadis made their way to the Lashkau. Jinto, Lafiel, Noel and Risch headed to the dining hall for a late meal. They met Seelnay enroute she then invited them to her place for dinner. Jinto explained the conversation to Seelnay as they walked. She gladly accepted to go with Lafiel on the Basroil. “I know the operations of the Basroil better than anyone on the depot. I can almost operate it in my sleep.” Those words brought a strange comfort to Jinto. Seelnay prepared a meal that everyone enjoyed. While they ate the battle was beginning at Sord 577.
*********
“My Lord we are at the mine release point. But there are no targets. The system seems empty.” The Lord watches the instrument they show no traces of recent engine emissions. “Had the Abh abandoned they system and if so where did they go?” He kept looking nothing. No traces. Granted the scanning range was limited by the Sords event horizon. But something should be visible. He presses a button on his command chair arm. “Get up here now! Something is wrong.” The door to the bridge opens, a winded woman enters the bridge. Before she can speak he points to the display. “There are no Abh in this system explain this. Now!” She looks carefully then in a moment of self-assurance she speaks. “They must have mutinied. They’ve left the area. The plan worked better than I ever though it would. The system and the crossover are ours for the taking.” She looks at him. “We’ve won My Lord. There is no resistance. Let’s transit the system and head for the Abh Capital.” Caught up in the moment he issues the order to have the entire fleet enter normal space together.*********
Nefee’s plan was simple. It was taken out of Admiral Trife’s maneuver book and modified with that Bebaus flair for the artistic. They would allow the Rebels to clear the Sord. Then surround them and slice them to pieces. Admiral Kotoponi defended the transfer point. He felt that not one ship would make it to that point. Over confidence was clouding Nefee judgment this time. The signal to attack was when the last ship was five hundred thousand meters from the Sord. That would allow the defense fleet to seal off that escape route. Then the slaughter would commence. Nefee sat in the center seat and smiled contently. The battle was about to commence.At five hundred thousand meters from the Sord the last five ships of the Rebel fleet suddenly exploded. Nefee had sprung his trap. What he did not count on was the speed in which the Rebel fleet spread through the system. About fifty ships went through the trap before it could be closed. They managed to get past Admiral Kotoponi’s defense fleet only suffering minor damage. Six hours later the balance of the Rebel fleet lay in ruins. However fifty undamaged ships were on their way to the Hyde System.
Nefee split his forces. He took his fastest ships, left Nastoyia in charge of the clean up and went after the balance of the Rebel fleet. By the time he entered the Sord, the Rebels had an eight-hour head start. It would take most of the ten days to the Hyde system to catch them. At least that’s what Nefee hoped.
He dispatched a shuttle through the short cut to warn Admiral Kenesh of what was coming her way. He then reflected on the error in judgment he made and planned not to make the same mistake again. As soon as contact was made a glorious battle in plane space would occur, those thoughts put him to sleep.
*********
The first ship exploded he knew then it was a trap. He ordered the fleet to battle speed and headed for the transfer point. Forty-eight ships and two supply vessels escaped the Abh trap. He had less than twenty-five percent of his original fleet left to him. The woman was confined to her quarters. His first thought was to kill her. But she might prove useful if they survived. Then he’d execute her for treason. Refueling he left the supply vessels set to explode when they were approached. It was another way to slow the Abh down. Although he knew they weren’t visible he also knew they were hot on his heels. At their present speed they would clear the Hyde Sord in less than nine days there he would make his stand in the vastness of the Hyde System.*********
On the sixth day the shuttle from Admiral Bebaus arrive in the Hyde System. The message was greeted with a positive spin. The depot had around forty operational ships and enough ammunition and fuel to last years. The Rebels on the other hand would be short of supplies when they arrived. Lafiel sat in her room she had finished reading the note from her brother for the sixth time since it arrived; “He’s going to make a great Emperor. If he can get father to admit he was wrong. That was a feat in itself. I just hope I live though this. So I might see him ascend to the throne.” Lafiel had buckled down; she and Admiral Spoor had spent the last six-days following a strict schedule that Seelnay had made. Plenty of sleep, good food and exercise Lafiel was beginning to really feel the benefit of the workout. She could go an entire day without a nap. She and Jinto had spent very little time together. They met each other coming and going. Not even have a chance to say much past the normal greetings. Lafiel was glad when the message arrived. Once this battle was done she had something to tell Jinto. She wanted nothing to interfere with what she wanted to say.
*********
The Lashkau had set off for a shake down cruise three days earlier. The reports coming in were very favorable. All systems operated as expected. The weapons power was as Kufadis described it. “Like watching a super nova consuming a solar system.” The Lashkau would be returning to the depot soon. Then it would be refueled and rearmed and wait for the Rebels to arrive. The operational systems on the Basroil were put through their final test and calibrations; Seelnay and Paveryua told Samson that the Basroil was as ready as it would be. Jinto had spent the last six days studying the ships new configuration, as supply and executive officer he would be the one to keep Lafiel up to speed on the ship.*********
Kenesh finalized her plans and returned to the Capital. Sobbash took over operation command of the system. She and Jinto met Teel and Lina on the platform to brief them on the upcoming battle. Teel wanted assurances from them that Martine would not be used as a base or to hide ships behind. Jinto told him that was acceptable to him and that Martine’s position in the next ten days should place it clear of the fuel depot should it fall under attack and explode. Lina sat next to Sobbash. The more Jinto spoke the more agitated she became finally, she spoke. “How can you be so calm, the two of you? The system is going to be attacked and you treat it as if you’re making plans to go to the mountains.” Sobbash goes to restrain her. Jinto shakes his head. “Let her speak. She’s entitled to her opinion.” Lina is now standing in-between Jinto and Teel she continues her questioning. “Jinto where are you going to be?” Jinto averts his gaze from her. “You’re going to be out there defending the system aren’t you? With the Princess at your side? Why Jinto? Why? The Star Forces can defend the system. You and the Princess stay here with us.”
She is screaming at Jinto. Sobbash stands and puts her arm around Lina. “Ma’am this will do no good. They have a duty to protect this system. None of us could stop them if we tried. We will try to keep them safe. He has to do what he feels he must. Please accept that.” Lina looks at Sobbash. “You used plural and singular words, you mean the Princess plans on defending this place with Jinto?” Sobbash nods and releases her. Lina returns to Jinto. “Whose decision was it? Did you talk her into this?” Jinto holds Lina in his arms. “No mother. We decided to do this the moment we knew you would be in danger.” Jinto hands Lina to Teel, she stands along side him. Sobbash stands next to Jinto, he addresses them. “Be well my parents. I’ll will do everything in my power to keep you safe.” He goes to leave; Lina has the last word. “I want to hold a grandchild Jinto. Do not disappoint me.” Jinto smiles at Lina. He turns Sobbash follows him to the shuttle they depart the pad and head for the depot.
Sobbash broke the silence. “I never had parents. I was my father’s daughter. But he was killed soon after I was born. The senior members of the family passed me from house to house. Finally when I reached the age I could enter the Star Forces. I went willingly. It’s the only family I’ve known. So that’s what parents are like?” Jinto stared at first. Then his look softened. “No family growing up? Is that why you’ve been so aloof?” She nods. “That and I don’t know how to handle deep relationships. I can socialize but to have a meaningful relationship scares me to death.” Jinto interrupted. “To drink you mean. That’s why you drink so much and take those pills to forget your past. But being one hundred percent Abh the memories always return.”
She nods and puts her head in her hands. “You know Samson has been trying to get closer and I keep pushing him away. I like him a lot but I can’t seem to tell him how I feel.” Jinto puts his arm on her shoulder. “Try starting with what you just told me and let it go on from their Sobbash. Samson’s a pretty understanding fellow. I should know shouldn’t I?” She lifted her face from her hands. It was flushed with signs of tears running down it.
“I think I know what Lafiel sees in you. It’s the person you are. I always thought it was your physical appearance. But it’s that big heart of yours.” She returns her head to her hands and gently sobs. “I’m such a fool. If I had not gone to the planet with you I would have lost him.” The shuttle lands at the depot. Before they depart Sobbash swears Jinto not to tell a soul about what they have talked about. “It won’t be a for very long. Once this crisis is over then we will talk about it. All of us okay?” Jinto nods. They went their separate ways. She went back to the command center and Jinto to the Basroil for a final run through of the systems and then to bed. As he walked back to their quarters, he thought he might get to see Lafiel awake for once. She was sound asleep when he entered the room. He dressed for bed, headed for the couch and fell into a restful sleep.
*********
“My Lord the signal from the transports has stopped.” Leaning back in the chair he plots the distance. The Abh are eight hours behind him. If he times it right, they can refuel and enter the Sord leading to Vorash before his pursuers arrive. The information he has says the Hyde System is lightly defended. One quick thrust, refuel the fleet then off to attack the Capital or die trying. The gray scene on the main viewer comforts him; he never could understand why space was always a comfort for him. *********
“Admiral. Rebel transports are drifting into our path.” Before the navigator could finish Nefee calmly says. “Destroy them now. Target and fire at will.” The first mine gets within three thousand meters and both transports violently explode. The flagship buffets from the force of the explosion. Nefee scans the area, convinced that those ships were left as a trap, he senses nothing else within range. “Maintain course and maximum speed. I’m going to my quarters. Notify me of anything that occurs. It makes no difference if I’m asleep or not. Understand?” The navigator accepts Nefee’s orders. The commander leaves the bridge. On his way to his quarters he informs Nastoyia of the ships left in plane space and requests her present status. It would be thirty-three hours before he would get an answer. Just before his planned confrontation with the Rebel fleet should occur. He falls into a restlessness sleep.*********
For the better part of a week, spending almost eight hours a day. Ramaj plowed through the transcripts of Dusanyu’s clones ranting. Finally she found what she was looking for. It was an obscure conversation about the people who contacted him. It was nonsense at first. But after several viewings Ramaj was convinced she found her missing piece. Summoning Dr. Sasoum to the meeting room she played the interview for the doctor. When it was finished she commented. “Doctor, will you please judge his state of mind for me?” The doctor review the conversation again as she did her interest peaked. She now saw what Ramaj had seen. “He’s very sane, his statements are consistent with one who has his faculties about him. Is he saying what I think he’s saying?” Ramaj nods in agreement. “You will not divulge what you have seen to anybody. The future of the Empire depends on your silence.” The doctor stares at the display it’s frozen with his face smiling. She readily agrees to Ramaj’s request. The walk back to her quarters brings her comfort.Continued in the next post
