CHAPTER 6: USS DEVASTATOR

CHAPTER 6: USS DEVASTATOR

The Slide way carried me over the landing field and while I stood on the slide segment I was staring up at the metal sky above me, trying to make out details. I had to remind myself that this was the underside of a star ship. Something that could travel and move through space at incredible speeds. Those tower like extensions, each the size of immense sky scrapers were actually landing gear and not a modern city There were countless stories, rumors and myths about this ship and everyone in the Union knew at least one. The ships origin itself was clouded in mysteries. The official GalNet Site was very vague about it and only said it was the product of an ancient and very advanced civilization. Most sources on the Net believed it was of Celtest origin but there was no official confirmation that this was indeed the case. No less mythical and fantastic were the legends and stories told about the man who found it and brought it back. The immortal Warrior from Old Earth, Admiral Richard Stahl, chosen by the Guardian of Earth to be the soldier and warrior protector for the then fledgling society known as United Earth. He took his calling more serious than anything and had indeed become the Eternal Warrior, a nickname he was known and respected by friend and foe alike. He had been in every war and every conflict since Earth ascended and became known as Terra. He was perhaps the single most prominent person. Even Union enemies knew and feared his name. They said he was untouchable, incorruptible and the very definition of honor and truth. Aboard the Hyperion there was a Lieutenant who believed Stahl was really a God and sent to this Universe to protect the Union. A believe that was not uncommon; I had met other people who felt and thought the same way. I knew a minority of people did not believe Stahl still existed, but was a propaganda tool. Kept alive by Avatar projections and actors that inherited the role. I had not really formed an opinion, but I had met McElligott. The Old Highlander was as real as can be, and meeting him erased any doubt that there were indeed Immortals at the helm of things. Also in my opinion neither the Fleet nor the Union as a whole engaged in propaganda. In had learned about it in political science class, it was a tool used by authorities to keep up a usually false and inflated narrative to justify their existence. The Union did not have a government in a classical sense and the validation of its existence came from its citizens. "Move it Buster!" Someone yelled and only now I noticed I had reached the end of the slide belt. I mumbled apologies and walked a few steps. I had no idea where to go. The cargo doors where a thousand meters above me and I saw nothing that looked like an IST extension or access ramp. "I said move it! You are holding everything!" yelled the same voice. I turned and a Cargo Specialist waved at me with an angry face. I didn't know what I was holding up but I walked forward and he screamed. "STOP!" I stopped as he asked, a house sized container shoot up from a suddenly opening trapdoor, literally an inch from my nose. It was, quite a frightening experience, I could feel the sharp draft of air created by the moving metal container, that was bigger than Hogun's Inn. With a sharp metallic clang, a Cargo Drone latched onto the big box and lifted it away. The trap door, clearly marked with yellow and black stripes all around closed, only to open a heartbeat later and another container shoot out of the ground. The Cargo handler reached me and he was clearly angry. "Do you want to get killed? What in Jeezuz name are you doin' on my cargo field anyway? You do not look like a Cargo Handler!" He was a Sergeant so I swallowed the Sir in the last moment. "No I am not." "Didn't think so, wouldn't need a greenhorn today to teach him the cargo handlin' business, not when the Devi is here. She takes more supplies aboard than the entire First fleet I tell you! All warehouses filled to the brim now and when she leaves, there won't be cobwebs left!" "I am Sorry, Sergeant. I need to get into that ship and the Slidebelt carried me here." "There is no personnel boarding yet. No access tunnels have been attached! You need to wait like everyone else." Another man walked up coming from the same slide belt and joined us. "I need to get up there as well." He was human, tall and wore a black jumpsuit without any markings. He had blonde hair and his eyes were hidden behind old fashioned sun glasses. A sure sign he was Terran. Only Terrans and those who wanted to be Terran wore those ancient contraptions, instead of shade fields or Lens implants. The Sergeant barked. "What do you think I am, some sort of Ferry Man? There is no boarding!" I said."Sergeant, I was ordered to forgo regular boarding and get aboard as soon as possible. I have an urgent errant. I know and realize you do not provide  boarding options to personnel, but I have learned in my short career so far, that cargo handlers and Sergeants usually know how things can be accomplished." He sounded much less irritated. "Do you have the orders to back it up?" "Yes I do, Sergeant" "You two stay right where you are, don't move. This is a dangerous place if you don't know where to step." "Yes Sarge!" A Cargo Drone whisked down and the Cargo Specialist said. "This is quite illegal and don't get caught, but it is quite safe if you hold on tight, we Handlers do it all the time. Step on the Drone claws and it will get you up there. But as I said hold on tight it's a long way down and Cargo Drones are not the smartest machines if it does try to catch you, it might cut you in half." He raised both of his arms. "What are you two waiting for! It appears this is the only way I get you two of my hair." I stepped on one of the massive Steel claws of the hovering bot and the man in the black suit stepped on the other. I yelled."Thank you Sergeant" But he had his back turned and apparently forgotten about us already. I held tight to a hydraulic hose and the Robot accelerated upwards in a brake neck speed. The Blonde man laughed and yelled: "Yeeehhaa!! That's the ticket!" He had no rank insignia. Was he one of the enemies I was warned about? In one hand I held the case and with the other I grabbed tight to the hydraulic arm. The man however had a free hand and if he wanted he could do something. The ground was far down and the huge containers down there appeared no bigger toys. The cargo door that looked like a small window from below grew to a gigantic hole. Our burg would have fit right through it, with plenty of room to spare. The drone whisked us inside and lowered us to solid ground, just a few meters of the ledge and disappeared back down. The cargo hold was immense and the ceiling had to be at least 200 meters above us. Cargo belts moved the containers in a steady stream. Robots and Men in cargo manipulator suits stacked them in honey comb like shelves. Before I could orient myself and to see where I needed to go. Two Marines flew across the cargo bay and pointed their guns at me and the stranger. "Hold it right there. No moves! We are not cleared for personnel boarding and what you just did is illegal boarding! We usually shoot intruders on sight you know! This cargo handler trick might work on other ships, this is the Devi!" "Sir, I have an urgent errand of utmost importance and was ordered to board as soon as possible. I have corresponding orders with me!" "Those better be good!" One of the marines scanned my order chip and stepped back. "Aye you do have an urgent mission, and your MITI checks out. Go right to the wall over there and tell the IST control where you need to go. Centron will check you out and if he thinks you aren't kosher you're history." "Who is Centron Sir?" "The ships AI, but unlike any you ever came across." The other Marine spoke "This AI is authorized to make life and death decisions and has ways to make you disappear." That was just what I needed, probably an Alien AI with an itchy trigger finger. Still I ran towards the IST and while I did I looked over my shoulder to see how Mr. Sunglasses fared .The man in black talked to the marines and then he followed me. I reached the IST way ahead of him, but the system voice said after I voiced my destination request. "IST resources maxed out at the moment. Please stand by for the next available IST car. The waiting time for non essential transports is two Minutes and seven seconds." I wondered how it would be to man the OPS position of this ship. I am sure it was a whole department and a big team. The man in black reached me while I had to wait for the next available car. He had a scar underneath his left eye and he smiled at me. "What is it you have to do so urgently?" "An errant Sir." "Have you ever been aboard the Devastator before?" "No Sir this is my first time." The IST Car arrived and I said." Why don't you take this one? I wait for the next." "No worries, Midshipman. I won't bite and besides you are armed and I am not!" I reluctantly went into the car with him. The system beeped and asked."Destination?" "Command Deck" "Scanning ID for authorization." The man dressed in black said: "Are you from a Water world? I noticed your neck gills." "Yes, Sir, Nilfeheim." "I bet you like swimming." "Yes Sir." "Well that's where I am heading for right now. The Devastator has great pool facilities. Care to join me?" "I would like to Sir, but I have an errand to do." "How about when you're done?" "Sir I am a Midshipman and I bet my day has been already planned for me." The IST beeped and moved. "Ah yes you are an officer and probably have more important things to do than go swimming." He must have been an enlisted man of some sort. Or perhaps a civilian contractor, the Marines let him pass and the IST moved so he must have checked out, I realized I had my hand on the butt of the blaster. "It is not that, Sir. I sure wish I could go with you, but a Midshipman is the lowest end of the chain of command, technically not even a real officer yet and that means I don't decide what I can do or not. Not that I even know where my next posting is going to be." "You regret joining the Navy?" "No I don't. Everyone has to start somewhere and I am the beginning. If I survive this year and measure up to them, I might make it to become an Ensign." "I see you got the Medal of Honor. That should count for something." I sighed. "Yes I am proud of it but I wish I wouldn't have to display it. It is more trouble than it is worth." "I might not be an expert on Military commendations, but even I know that's the most prestigious medal there is." "Sir I am a Midshipman, no one believes it's real." The IST stopped and the doors parted. "This is the command deck." The Man said. "After you Sir!" "You are one nervous and mistrusting person. I must say. "But he stepped out the IST and I followed. He was about to walk away and then said. "Where do you have to go? It happens I know this ship pretty well." "I am sure I can find it Sir." He shook his head and walked away. I had no idea where I had to go. This was the Command deck but I was certain it was as big as the rest of the ship. There was no one else in sight. Then I saw a location diagram and a Computronic panel. "Computronic, I have a personal delivery for Admiral Stahl. Where do I go?" "All non-command personnel accessing Command level must report to Command and Control. Follow the blue light." A throat tightening feeling got a hold of me that made me think with every step I took I came closer to something frightening. The mission wasn't so difficult. I had made it aboard the ship but I was sure this was another of those moments I marched head on into trouble. Only this time I wasn't in charge of anything. In moments like this I wondered Loki did exist and had cursed my life. It certainly felt as if some invisible trickster behind the scenes was pulling the strings. A blue illuminated line appeared in the floor and it led me after a sort walk to a set of massive doors. Now my skin felt as if insects crawled over it and my throat was dry as the dust lakes on Twilight. The doors where guarded by a pair of Marines and a Cerberus robot. The robot leveled its weapon arms. "Command and Control access for authorized personnel only." "I am Midshipman Olafson with standing orders to deliver a package to Admiral Stahl." "Please wait." I stood there next to the silent marines that eyed me as if I was some sort of criminal. The robot had not lowered its weapons and was still aiming them at me. All the while I felt more and more miserable. To all this came the urge to relieve myself. I had to go the bathroom  urgently. After what seemed to be an hour, the door opened and a human Lieutenant appeared and snapped at me."What do you want from the Admiral?" I held my order chip towards him." I have standing orders to deliver a package personally to the Admiral, Sir!" The Admiral is busy right now. Give me the package and I make sure he gets it when he has time." "Sorry Sir, my orders are to hand it personally to Admiral Stahl and no one else. I gladly wait till he has time, Sir." "Are you hard of hearing, Midshipman? I will overlook your insubordination but hand me the package and leave the command deck!" "If you want to check my orders Sir, I cannot hand you the package. I must insist on seeing the Admiral myself!" "I have you thrown in the Brig!" Each of his words was said with a sharp almost yelling tone. Perhaps it was all the lemonade and the water I had consumed waiting in the lobby, but my urge to go was worse than I had ever felt the need. The chance I would be able to go to a bathroom soon was about as likely as a warm breeze on Nilfeheim during Longnight. I felt cold sweat rolling down my face. Another Officer appeared and he had three golden rings on his sleeve. He was the Captain of the Ship."What is going on here Lieutenant?" "Captain, I am dealing with an insubordinate Midshipman." The Captain glanced at me as if he seen a speck of dust on his otherwise immaculate uniform. "Midshipman?" "Sir I have Orders to deliver this package to Admiral Stahl in person and no one else. This is a courier mission involving classified materials. I cannot deviate from those orders Sir. If you want to check I have an order chip right here." He held out his hand. "Give me that darn package and be gone. I will make sure he gets it. I don't have time for this." I still held out the Order chip. "Please Sir, if you be so kind and check my orders. Then you will see I cannot comply with your request!" Why did they make this so difficult? All they had to do was take the damn Order chip. I had to concentrate and force myself with every last iota of will power, not to simply walk away and take a leak at the next corner. I was in real pain. I never thought it could be that painful! I had walked into a trap of some kind. This reminded me of my trial. It mattered not what I said or did. The Captain's eyes became narrow. "Do you have any idea who I am? I am Captain Harris and this is my ship! You will do what I tell you. Do you know what the consequences are disobeying a direct order?" "Yes Sir. However it is appears irrelevant. You will not listen or check my Order chip and I must obey the orders I received." "You little snot! No one lectures me aboard my ship. I will deal with you and make an example, now give me that case!" "Sir I cannot. The case will self-destruct if I hand it to anyone else but the Admiral." "You brought a bomb aboard my ship?" He turned. "Marines vaporize this insubordinate louse if he does not comply with my order within the next minute!" There was nothing left to say. I was about to be shot. The joy I had aboard the Hyperion working with professionals was wiped away by those arrogant ass holes. I shivered felt cold and hot, terrible pain between my legs and now faced imminent death! I stood in attention and said. "Olafson, Eric, Midshipman Service number 1082320-O-5434. I am under direct orders of NAVINT Commander Reagan E. Greer. My exact orders are that this case has to be delivered to Admiral Richard Stahl in person. No one else is to touch it, take it from me or ask me to relinquish it. No matter who will order you to relinquish or offer to take it. You are to insist on giving it to the Admiral himself. He must identify himself properly according to Blue protocol to me." "And I am the Captain of this ship and I gave you the order to give me that case. On this ship there is no other authority but me. You have thirty seconds before the Marines vaporize you!" I pressed my teeth together, not moving, I was not sure I could have moved, the pain and pressure was worse than the hardest beating father had ever given me, at least that is how I felt, and equally helpless. This is how it would end. I knew it was a trap and sending a lowly Midshipman on an errand like this was foolish, but I had no choice now. I could not fight them, not armed Marines. "Well Midshipman do you want to die for that case?" "Sir I have no other choice. I was authorized to use lethal force to defend this case but I cannot fight you. I have my orders and cannot act any other way. If I have to die then so be it." The marines shouldered their weapons and aimed. I could see the flickering air of the force field muzzles; it would be the last thing I saw. I thought about Narth, Elena, my friends and I thought about mother and saw her smile. Maybe dying wasn't so bad. Maybe mother would be there on the other side. In all this suddenly remembered the ring on my left hand. I had gotten so used to it that I had forgotten it was there. Why would I in a situation like this suddenly remember the ring?It felt warm and there was a deep down sensation of anger. But the pain of my bladder blotted every coherent thought. The Captain spoke again. "Last chance to give me that case. Refuse and I will order the Marines to fire and kill you!" I whispered "Odin receive me." Then I repeated. "Olafson, Eric, Midshipman Service number 1082320-O-5434. I am under…" "Alright Marines burn him to ashes!" At least it would be quick…. I clenched my teeth. I felt so angry and so helpless and I wished I could scream but I would not give them that satisfaction. My last moment, this was it. Why didn't they fire? Would I feel the heat? I could see the finger of the marine move over the trigger and a blinding light. "That is enough. Marines stand down!" Someone else said. The Marines lowered their weapons, all they did was turn on their gun lights, to me it was like looking into the beam of a TKU that very moment. I was not dead, but I was no longer in so much pain. The man I had met in the IST had returned. "I am Admiral Stahl, Midshipman. I believe you have something for me?" "Yes Sir!" The Lieutenant giggled and Stahl snapped. "What is so funny Mr. Worther?" "That louse, that weakling Midshipman pissed all over himself." Only then I noticed, that it was true and shame flushed my face and I had to fight to keep myself under control. I wanted to cry, to run and to kill everyone in sight at the same time. Stahl's face showed no emotions. "Midshipman what is it?" I didn't even recognize my own voice it was trembling. "Admiral Sir. I was ordered by Commander Reagan E. Greer. Of Sector 603 NAVINT to hand you this package, I tried to verify his identity but I cannot say if it is a genuine Order. I do not want to hand you a bomb or be the instrument of a foreign power to cause you harm. If you feel that this package is indeed for you Sir then I must ask you to identify yourself according to Blue protocol." Stahl's expression changed and a smile curled his lips. "Midshipman Olafson, there is nothing in that box. This was a stress test I had ordered. From out the bridge door stepped Commander Greer and the Saresii Woman. The Admiral raised his arm. "Lt. Commander turn of those Emotion enhancers. The test is over. Even my skin is crawling. " The woman touched controls on her left sleeve and only now because it was gone I noticed there had been an almost inaudible high pitched whistle in my ears before she had turned off whatever it was. The sense of doom and dread was gone. The Admiral said. "Computronic verify ID check Blue protocol. Stahl Richard, Admiral Service Number 02-S-01." "Stahl Richard Admiral Identity verified. Blue protocol requires code key and day code." Stahl said "Day code is Alabaster." A frame of blue light enhanced a wall panel right next to me and the Admiral put his key into the now appearing slot. Then he said to me. "Put your key in." The fingers of my right hand trembled and I almost dropped the darn small thing, but I managed to get my key in, but only after the third attempt. I identified myself. The Computronic verified it."Identification positive Blue protocol complete." The steel ring around my wrist snapped open and fell to the ground. I tried to open my hand that held the case but my hand would not open. Stahl actually knelt down and opened my fingers, took the Case and then said. "Mr. Worther, have you ever been exposed to Level three Saresii Emotion Enhancer Sonics?" "Of course not Sir, there was never a need to test me." "Have you ever been in a situation where you thought your life would end right there and then? "Sir?" "Did you ever face death?" "I did not have the opportunity to proof myself in combat Sir; I came from logistics, Sir." "That young Midshipman displayed more honor and courage than anyone could ask from him. To him this was no test. This was real and he thought the Marines would fire. To increase the tension we used these old fashioned psycho acoustic means, still to the end he stood firm. To laugh at courage and determination makes you a pathetic fool and I want you off this ship and out of my eyes." Worther grinned sheepish. "Sir you are not serious are you? I just got this posting." "If you are not off this ship in 10 minutes, I have the Marines throw you out the next cargo hatch. Stay right here if you dare!" "Admiral Stahl, Sir. I worked hard to get to this post. Please consider my service record." Stahl waved his hands at the Marines." See that this weak louse leaves. If he is not gone in 9 minutes and 21 seconds throw him out." The Marines grinned and stepped forward. Worther wanted to say something but then turned towards the IST and the Marines followed him." Captain Harris crossed his arms. "You would need to really run to make it in ten minutes." "It can be done in ten. If not he makes it down to the surface in less than that." Stahl put his hand on my shoulder. "Midshipman Olafson, are you alright?" I still tried to collect myself and was shamefully aware of my wet pants. "Not exactly Sir." Captain Harris shook his head slowly. "Those Psych Sonics were overkill, if you ask me." The Saresii Woman said. "We had to use them as he is completely immune to all Psionic methods and the Admiral wanted to test the Cadet under maximum stress conditions. I had them dialed up to nine, not three, to even get a reaction from this Midshipman. "She bowed slightly. "I am deeply impressed indeed.You have nerves made of Ultronit." The captain said to me. "It's not your fault; those Neuro-Sonics affect all nerves of your body.Come, I show you my bathroom and auto-dresser to clean up." "Thank you Sir." As he looked at me he wiped his eyes. "Am I getting old or is that the Medal of Honor you display there?" I just nodded, and then thought better stood in attention." Yes Sir it is Sir." He snapped in attention and said. "Medal of Honor recipient on deck!" Everyone present saluted me, even Stahl. Captain Harris turned his face to the Admiral. "This was twice rotten to do that to him. He obviously has proven his worth beyond doubt." Stahl looked at Harris. "The old Highlander assured me of that indeed, but let us discuss these things later." The Captain took me by the shoulder and extended his other hand. "This way, let me show you." Stahl said. "Yes get cleaned up and relax a little and then report to the bridge." The Captain accompanied me down the corridor and after a short walk, he stopped by a door and a brass sign on it the words: 'Captains Quarters'. The doors opened as he approached and he said. "Go right in, the head is right back there." With that he turned and left.

Interlude: Captain Harris

Harris watched the young man disappear in his quarters and then went back to Stahl who was still there. "You know this was an exceptionally cruel test. I felt like an idiot acting that way." "And he had the guts to tell you." Stahl responded. "That is a first one." "He is the first one I know off who went to the end, all the way to that triple rotten Light gag. I would have pissed myself without those Saresii Sonics, looking in a TKU and suddenly seeing a light." Stahl raised an eyebrow. "Never seen you that angry when I do my little tests." "Have you seen the young man's display? He earned the MOH, for Christ sake. Not to mention the rest." "I think you like the boy." "To be frank, Admiral. I think I do. Hell of a display of courage and control." Commander Greer agreed. "He is bright and determined and acted like a pro in every aspect. I never thought he would carry it through. Not with Nora's sonic tensing his nerves like guitar wires." The ancient Admiral still was looking down the corridor. "I tested you in a very similar fashion Captain Harris, but it has been a while since you have been a Midshipman and I think you forgot." "Ah yes the explosive device that was just a dummy. That was almost as cruel.I didn't make it all the way, I do remember it now. I could not sleep for days." "Old friend, the Navy and the Academy have their time tested method of finding officers and doing a remarkable job churning out good officers for the most part. But I have my own way of finding the special ones; you should know that by now." Harris eyes stared in the distance. "Yes I remember a few of those you found." "Did the Dai and the Archa arrive?" "Yes and the princess is here as well." "Make sure they are kept together and Olafson is to be assigned to that group." "I added the Saturnian and the Spider as well.I know you long enough to see your pattern and boy,this group takes the cake in diversity for sure. " "Good, I was thinking about them as well." Stahl put his hand to his chin. "Before Olafson returns to Midshipman Country I would like to do the Big Test with him if you're game." "You haven't done the Big Test since Cadet Bernhard turned insane, but I am game alright. Personally I think you should take it a little easier on the guy. He is basically still a kid." "You just mentioned his ribbon display. Our fleet isn't handing these decorations out to kids. His collection puts some old warhorses to shame. I will have to call that old Highlander and ask him how that Midshipman earned that medal." "If he does, don't forget tell me as well. I really want to know how a Midshipman ended up with the MOH, not to mention the Silver Star and all the rest. Seeing him perform under stress, I have no doubt he earned them." Harris was not sure if the Old Warrior had heard him. Stahl said staring down the corridor. "I kept an eye on him since he left that cold world of his. I think he will surprise you. I think he might even surprise me."

CHAPTER 7: THE BIG TEST

The quarters were immaculate clean, tastefully furnished and big. It took me a while to even find the bath room door. After I got undressed and turned on the shower, my knees felt soft as butter. This had stressed me more than fighting the Y'All, curse them and their rotten tests. Why was it always me? There were hundred Midshipmen and it was me who ended up peeing while meeting the big legend himself. There was also an auto-dresser and I stepped in. I felt the nanites and Robo arms assemble a fresh uniform. The Auto dresser was a deluxe model and automatically corrected my hair cut and shave. Feeling much better I left the Quarters and wondered what else the day would bring. It had started so good with me waking up on the Hyperion for my last shift and now I was aboard the Devastator but not as I expected. The Marines where back at their post before the doors to Command and Control and one of them blinked at me and grinned. "Your friend Worther almost made it, but not quite." I gasped. "You threw him out?" "Sure did and he pissed all over himself on the way down, just before we caught him." The other Marine saluted me. "Fine display of courage, Sir. You would have made a good Marine." I saluted back knowing how big that compliment was, Marines regarded anyone else usually as lesser life forms. "While it would have been an honor, I doubt I made it through Marine Boot Camp, I am terrified of Orbital Jumps." He laughed but pointed at my ribbon display. "Still I see Marine Green on your display, for boarding action, Sir." He saluted crisp and so did his silent partner and then pointed at the door. "Go right on in, Sir. Walk across Command and Control to the other side. The bridge is accessed by a lift-platform or ladders at the other side of CC. Captain Harris is waiting for you, there." Command and Control was a curved room with dozens of manned control panels. At the other end was a short flight of stairs and the mentioned lift platform to the actual bridge, again guarded by Marines who simply raised their weapons. "Bridge Access granted." I held my breath as I stepped on the bridge of the most powerful star ship. The Devastator was of alien origin and no one but Stahl and perhaps a handful others knew where it really came from. Stahl appeared with it during the Y'All war and turned the tide of the war that seemed already lost at that time. This bridge was kept dark, except for small lights in the floor. The large view screen was dark and not active. The bridge was big as everything about this ship, but not extremely out of proportion, and perhaps only twice the size of the bridge aboard the Shetland Before the command balcony, the same duty stations as on every capital ship, the rest was so I assumed down in Command and Control. Behind the duty stations on that raised platform, called the command balcony were the command chair and the seat of the XO. Ramps led up to that raised section of the bridge on each side. Harris stood with his hands on the railing that surrounded the Command balcony. "Up here Midshipman." I walked up the ramp and saluted. "Midshipman Olafson reporting as ordered." "Don't salute on a bridge. That distracts. Just report to the person that summoned you." "Aye Sir, I know Sir." Stahl came up the ramp behind me. "Feeling better, Midshipman?" "Yes Sir, thank you Sir." "Would you like to know why I did that test?" "No Sir I much rather would know why me?" He smiled and his eyes had the same strange but hard to describe quality as McElligott, perhaps even more so. With Stahl it was not just his eyes, he had an almost tangible aura of something no longer human. He leaned against the railing on the other side. Now I stood in the middle, the Captain on one side and the Immortal Admiral on the other. I was not sure this was a good thing, judging by the recent events most likely not. The Immortal began in a low and friendly conversational tone. "I am following your path, since you left Nilfeheim with increasing interest." He made a gesture across the duty stations below. "Before I go deeper into my explanation, let me ask you a question. Have you decided what you want to specialize in?" "No Sir. I did not have the chance to talk to a career advisor at the end of my first Academy Year, Sir." "I know about that, but the career advisors usually have an easy job. Most Cadets come to the Academy with a good idea what they want to do. Some dream about being Engineers, Helms men and so forth. You did too, and you told that to the recruiting officer on Nilfeheim, you knew exactly what you want to be when you talked to Admiral Stokes what you want to do, while you were standing in line at the Academy HQ .I believe your said something like. 'ever since I can think I wanted to be a Star ship captain." I felt a little embarrassed and was surprised about the detail knowledge this Immortal Admiral had about me. "Well yes Sir I said that. But this is not a specialization I could select right away. I know command  picks someone after many years of duty from helm or tactical or whatever and send him or her to command school. So I don't know which specialization would be best for that, this is why I haven't chosen." The Admiral nodded and he had a faint smile on his lips. "The specializations make no difference, even though it has shown that Engineers make bad Captains, that there is perhaps one in a Billion making Captain after choosing a career in legal services. Command officers are picked by their abilities to do exactly that, Command. Now you can be in command of a department, of a project a base or lab and you will end your career doing just that. Commanding a Starship is different because there is not a single more difficult and demanding position in the entire Universe. "You experienced on your own back that the reality is far from flawless, but when it comes to choosing Starship captains we don't accept anything less than perfection. In over 3000 years the Navy has refined a process that distills a handful of beings out of all those applicants and officers; a miniscule percentage of beings that are capable of taking command and ultimately become a Starship captain. Of the trillion beings that serve the Union Fleet, less than one percent command ships. Of all the ones that earned the right and privilege to wear Captains gold only 12,433 individuals were stripped of that rank and their names expunged from all records, except the wall of shame in the basement of Fleet HQ. That is a miniscule number for an Organization that big and with a history of nearly three thousand years." I listened closely to every word the Immortal Admiral said. He pointed to the Captain's chair behind us. "The Navy has a very refined and difficult process to pick and choose. The number I just mentioned shows the process works. It is much easier to become an Admiral by the way. "I personally believe what separates a true Captain from the all the rest are abilities that cannot be taught, cannot be trained. It must be there from the beginning. I believe you have some, perhaps even all of these qualities. You stuck your nose into almost all classes they offer, just long enough to get the very basics. It was me who made sure you did not advance, but I made sure you went to all that mattered, because the sum of classes you took leads to another specialization called Command. It is not an openly offered specialization. It is by invitation only and those who show promise are put through the motions from the start." He chuckled. "Now there are many who dream to become a Captain, but few stick to it as determined as you. This is why I became aware of you, well this and that stunt you did with that Submarine of yours, attacking a Space bus." He nodded as he saw the surprise on my face."Yes I know about that and what you did on Twilight and one day I want to hear the details how you defeated the Dai battle ship with a civilian Yacht. "You told us, you told the Navy you want to command form the start and that is why you might feel you get picked more or tested harder. You were told that your chosen path is harder and more difficult than any other." I had to agree, all this was true. "The path to the Captains seat does not start in some distant years after many years of service. It starts the second you are evaluated. You and every other potential Command Officer is tested harder, looked at closer and tested twice as hard as the others and the testing and the evaluation will continue for these candidates after the others are long done with the Academy. In some cases it could last a decade or two, but it leads to Command School, to a XO position and eventually to the Big Chair." I nodded. "Yes Sir, knowing that now makes me feel less like a pawn in a game I can't control." He actually put his hand on my shoulder. "Mister Olafson, we are all pawns in the hands of fate, God or whatever philosophy you adhere too. Yes I believe we make our own choices but we can't always control the circumstances." His face became more serious he lowered his voice. "I did not admit or tell this to many, but I too asked and sometimes still do, that same question. Why me?" "Why did the Guardian choose me? Did you know that deep down I am still just a plain pre astro Marine, who never thought faster than light travel would be possible! Heck I didn't believe in Alien life when I was a kid. Now I am an Admiral in a Spacefleet and seen the strangest life forms, some of which I call friends. Yet not a day goes by I ask myself, Why me? Why do I have to make all these decisions?" He grinned. "So you see you are not the only one who feels to be a pawn sometimes." This revelation from the lips of the immortal was perhaps the most eye opening lecture in my life so far. I did not feel so bad anymore always finding myself in the midst of trouble. He shifted and sat down in an empty Chair next to the Captain's Chair and put his feet up. He was not done with what he wanted to tell me and continued. "I am sure you heard of the OPS position on every star ship?" "Yes Sir, I served several months at that position." He sat up straight and it was him now who looked surprised. "You have? Where?" "Aboard the USS Hyperion, Sir." "Captain Zezz's Ship. I had no idea you served under him. It seems I have neglected to read your service record lately. I did not know you went with him. And you manned OPS?" "Yes Sir." "I must admit, I am impressed. Did you ever wonder why there are no OPS specializing classes at the Academy, while there are classes for everything else?" Now I made a surprised face. "No Sir, I never thought of it, until now." "OPS is besides the many tasks it covers, also a training position usually taken by an officer with many years experience who is earmarked for command. The next career step after OPS is usually the XO chair. It is considered the most demanding duty station, and for that reason it is not taught at the Academy." Harris who had listened to it all and had said nothing so far leaned forward to look at my display again. "I see it he does carry the OPS Position Ribbon with excellent service stripe. Let me pull up your service record. I want see what Zezz had to say about your service." At the Command of Harris a field screen established itself before him and my service record was displayed. Stahl shifted his position a little so he had a better view and said to me. "That old Shiss is one hell of a Captain and a friend of ours. He once served his third year and as a Midshipman aboard this ship just like you will. I value his opinion very much." Harris gestured to the readout and it adjusted its position so Stahl could see better without leaning over and said. "According to this, Zezz requested Olafson, right after graduation as his permanent OPS officer and cited him with the Excellence ribbon. If I ever read a better duty evaluation, I don't remember. The Hyperion XO has turned down a Command seat three times and he also is full of praise." Stahl pointed at the read out. "That's not Captain McKenzie who requests him? She hates Cadets." Harris turned his head." It's her alright, no other McKenzie I know commands the Flagship." The Captain shook his head and then looked at me." Captain K'Tngnk of the Madrid praises you as an outstanding Helmsman and he put in a third year request for you as well. Looks like you got around, Son!" Stahl grunted and got back up. "Well if Zezz thinks that highly of you I want to do another test." He glanced at Harris and the Captain nodded. "I told you, I am game. I actually look forward to this one." Stahl nodded and said. "Midshipman Olafson attention!" I straightened into the proper stance. Stahl put his hand on the arm rest of his chair. "CENTRON recognize Stahl." "Admiral Stahl recognized." "Tie in Log and Ship wide Intercom." "You are tied in Sir." "As of 1400hrs today I am placing Midshipman Eric Olafson in Command of the USS Devastator. He will be acting Captain until I reverse this temporary commission. Centron verify recognition of Captain Olafson." "Captain Olafson recognized. All Command Authority transferred." I almost fell over. I was certain I misunderstood. The Computronic added." Command transfer complete." Harris pointed with his flat hand at the Command chair in the middle and smiled. "He does that once in a blue moon. I am your XO for the time being. This is your seat now Captain!" I was speechless and could not think of anything to say. My mind raced and my mouth was paper dry. Stahl's eyes were as hard as Ultronit as he stared at me. "Don't get the wrong impression, Captain Olafson, this is the real thing. K'Tngnk let you steer his boat, Zezz trusted you with OPS. So I go a step further and I made you Captain. It is only for a while, but every action you take, every command you give is a real command that will affect lives, politics and diplomacy. You are in charge of the biggest boat we got, and responsible for everything. I know you are totally unprepared, and not ready for years, but as they said on Earth in my times. Tough luck, deal with it. "Fleet Command or I will give your ship missions, you are in charge of this ship and it is your duty and responsibility to carry them out. Do you understand what I am asking of you?" "To be frank Sir, I am unable to comprehend the scope of what you ask of me." "You want to be a Star Ship Captain, and as such you will be required to do things you can't comprehend and we still expect you to do the right thing whatever that might be. Here is your chance to proof to me and to yourself if you are indeed made for this position one day." He stepped down and walked towards the ramp. "One more thing Captain, the very moment you give up, or ask me for a break, or even ask me what to do, the test will end and you are removed from command. Your chances to command a Starship in this Navy will however be nil as long as I have something to say in these matters." I swallowed. "I understand Sir. I try my best." "Not good enough, Captain Olafson. Don't try your best. You must be certain beyond any doubt that whatever you do is the utmost best you can possibly do." He kept walking and left the bridge without any further words." Harris said. "The Captain never asks for advice. You can't ask him or me or anyone for advice. However you can ask every one of your officers, me and even the Admiral for their opinion or evaluation to any given situation, but it is you who must make the decision. That's why there is a senior staff and an XO. The senior staff is there to provide you with evaluations, opinions and options. The XO'S role is to be the devil's advocate and warning voice. The XO will paint the worst possible alternative picture, quote regulations and laws, but it will always come down to you. Being the Captain of a ship can be the loneliest job in the world as you will have to make life and death decisions and perhaps send everyone aboard into certain death because you must. A Captain is like God aboard his ship. While you have almost as much power on a ship as God, no Captain has Gods wisdom or omnipresence. I wish you good luck Captain!" I sighed and took a deep breath."Thank you Sir." "One more thing, don't call anyone Sir. You are it. Everyone is calling you Sir. As long as you are aboard the ship even the Admiral will address you as Sir. You on the other hand may call others either by rank or name. For example you may call me XO or Mr. Harris. There can always be only one Captain aboard a ship and in this case it's you." "I understand." "What are your orders Captain?" "Pinch me hard so I am sure this is real!" "It is real Sir, I assure you!" I swiped my hand across my mouth and then said to him. "Prepare a report of ship status and our standing orders. So I know what we are supposed to do." "The ship is being restocked and receives Level three maintenance. We have crew changes and also take new senior Midshipmen aboard. In six days we are to return to patrol duty along the Kashmar line, unless fleet command has other ideas.Before the Old warrior put you in charge, I was about to continue with the usual planet side routine." "We are here for six days then?" "That is the current schedule." "I assume dirt side procedures are not too different to other battle ships." "No they are not, just a whole different scale,Sir." "Has shore-leave been granted to those crew members that have no task while we are dirt side?" "No not yet. Personnel transfer tunnels have not been cleared yet." I cleared my throat. "Grant shore leave to all off duty personnel until 22:00 hrs. in five days and begin Crew rotation procedures." "Aye Captain!"

INTERLUDE: COVEN AND NARTH

The Circle of the Coven had gathered once again. A meeting was about to take place of tremendous profoundness and yet there were no outsiders to witness it. The mighty coven sisters were quite nervous about it and some of them actually felt an emotion they never had since coming in this universe, fear! A Narth sphere had arrived, no ship had ever managed to come that far without the aid of a Coven Sister that knew the secret path, but then they were certain a Narth Sphere had little in common with any other space ship in the known Universe. It did not come unannounced the meeting was requested by the Narth. Exactly at the time the meeting was requested a shrouded Narth walked through the door, none of the Sisters had felt anything, no Psionics and not Netherworld energies. The Narth was simply there. The Narth bowed ever so slightly, the Circle one and all bowed deeply in return. The Circle stood in a semi-circle in the otherwise featureless stone built house. The most powerful among them, known as Alycia, had witnessed the Narth aboard the Devastator spread her arms and open hands. "The term and concept of honor is now understood by all of the Circle. Your presence bestows much of it upon the Circle." "The humans have many interesting concepts and honor is as complex and intriguing as our human friends, yet Narth also learns its meaning and one does value your sentiment and assures equal considerations are extended." The Narth did not raise his shrouded head or move like any other being, the Narth simply was now in the center of the circle and no one had seen or noticed how. He didn't disappear and teleport there, he didn't move or float, he simply was there. "Narth always opposed the Coven. Perceived as ill equipped interlopers, that had no conception of the powers they unleashed on their own universe and broke universal rules by circumventing your demise. Female corporal humanoids bonding and becoming beings of the Netherworlds in ways disturbing the laws that govern these things, yes one knows you have lost much and suffered for your trespass. Narth perception of the Coven had not changed and there was a period Narth considered to rectify the condition by neutralizing intruders in this plane of existence." That statement did shock the assembled Coven Sisters. They always knew the Narth did not like them, but that they considered killing and destroying them was frightening to all. With all their might they knew the Narth would have won. The Visitor did not react to the shocked faces, he did not move as some reverted to their natural forms. Alycia who was more powerful than even Luci, the oldest wondered how Narth would see them. Would he see them as flaming demons or whatever the Narth saw when they thought of demonic creatures, or did he have the senses to see them for what they really were. It appeared he knew much more about the Netherworlds than she thought. She corrected herself, Narth most certainly had no mythology, no superstition and been the first sentient species of the universe. The shrouded being before them, perceived them for what they were. The Narth kept speaking. "I can sense your thoughts and considerations. To you and to many it appears Narth know it all and is Omni potent. It is not so, one needs to learn and observes events and conditions one has never seen before and these conditions are alien and unexplainable. Narth is older than many but not older than all. Narth is a life form and like all life form we do experience death. It does not however come to Narth unexpected or frequent and the last such terminal event occurred three galactic revolutions ago. One is expressing this to equalize the conditions of this meeting. One has come to declare that Narth has rectified ones view and no longer wishes to exterminate your existence. One has meditated long and concluded our conception was in error. Your presence here is not against the Rule, but perhaps part of it." The Netherworld witches that still were in human form had forgotten to breath. None of them expected such a declaration of the Narth. It was in away even more shocking than the first part of his address. Now he pulled his hands out of the voluminous sleeves of his robe, and made the same move as the Alycia had done. "Narth has joined the Union and decided to be more involved. Narth has concluded it was a positive decision. All that is Narth has begun to re-evaluate emotions and Narth develops a kinship to Union and Terran Humans. Now the Coven has joined this multi cultural society. One has seen many time streams and observed many cultures and dominions rise and fall, this one is unique and unprecedented in its form and one sees great potential. One has therefore come before you to welcome you and one has come to declare Narth objects to Coven no more. Luci, the leader of the Coven approached the Narth, she was certain this was not just a Narth messenger, but the Narth Supreme, a cosmic elder of unimaginable power and knowledgre. She who could instill fear and fright to entire societies, could not surpress her own feelings of awe and fear. She bowed again and then held out her hand. "It is a human gesture and custom, but we find the symbolism of joining hands more adequate than words or even psionic exchanges." The Narth took her hand. "Human culture is rich in such symbolic gestures that exceed verbal exchange." She agreed and added. "Especially those of Terran descent." "Indeed. One has also come because of a human that shares ties to Narth and Coven." "There is only one,it is Eric of Nilfeheim you speak about. We hoped he is the warrior, that will face the Dark One and make the decision, but we rely on a vague prophecy. He was able to make the ring his own, but all other conditions mentioned in that prophecy are not fulfilled. We believe now, he might be the father or perhaps an even more distant ancestor of the One. The White One has not appeared in Eric's life." "The truth must be kept from Eric, he must make the decision unbiased without thinking or hesitation, but he is not just a tool or a herald. He is not a being groomed to be the One, he will be the Dark One himself." "The decision will then be made in his lifetime?" "Narth is as unable to predict the future, just as you are. Eric chose a very dangerous profession and it has been observed he often is in the center of events where conflict and violence appear to be prominent elements. He is still mortal and if he dies before the time has come, the decision will not be made and the balance of the Rule will cease and one side will gain dominance. Once the Dark One fully incarnates in him, his life time can not be measured and his motivations to comply with cosmic conditions can not be predicted." The Old Witch shivered. "All that is and will be in all the Universes depend on the Rule and the balance. The entity that concieved me, fears nothing but is terrified of the Dark One's return." The Narth nodded. "If the balance fails, the cycle will end and not Narth and not the Elders of the Universe know what that means." One of the other Coven sisters overcame her awe and asked. "If Eric dies before the time he faces the Dark One, will he rise and destroy all life?" The Narth responded."The eldest among you understood, but I say it again.Eric is the Dark One. It is his task alone to make the decision, that restores the Rule and the balance,or ends and thus ends creation and all realities as we conceive them. If his human mortal shell is destroyed before he gains is omni potent state, the Dark One will resurrect without any connection and restrains and eternal darkness and the destruction of life itself will be the result. The Rule forever broken." The Coven Sisters nodded. They were around for a long time and felt the Narth spoke true. The Narth added. "One event that has not been predicted or was foreseen is the fact that Eric shared the Hughavh with Narth and is now on his way to become Narth. Narth and the Great White One speculate that this could lead to Eric deciding for a Third way!" Luci still held the hand of the Narth said. "The Coven will join the Narth in any decision. Follow Narth council. What is it you recommend we do?"

"Continue the way as it has begun. Let Eric find his way and let Narth and Coven be his source of stability and council. Eric meeting you was another such event. He seen and learned that creatures of darkness and chaos can make the decision to join the side of order and light. You have demonstrated to Narth and in extend to him, that each entity and each life form has the potential for good and evil, for light and darkness. That the reign of the Dulaix has come to an end and the era of the Tribunal has come. He will remember that it is not the origin of a being that decides what path to go!" Alycia and the others of the Coven felt as if a light had been turned on. "Indeed it makes sense, we felt that it was important that comes here and joins us, but we did not know why." "Now that what has to be said was said, the reason for one's visit has ended." "Then let us add a reason. Stay as an honored guest and partake in a ritual of the Coven and sample of the buffet of our specialties." "One is intrigued and fascinated by the prospect."

INTERLUDE: LARTHOP

Larthop learned about the escape of the girl and was furious. He thought of betrayal, of sheer stupidity or carelessness. Someone had failed to carry out his instructions. That did not explain how she escaped the curse of Califerm. Damage Control had to be done. Having Federal Police and perhaps even Fleet NAVINT snoop around and find out what else was going on was very dangerous at this stage of his plans. In all this he heard about the involvement of the three wise men. That cemented his suspicion that it was not about the Neo Viking kid, but about the older Neo Viking. His rise to prominence was fast and unusual. Being the Representative of such an unimportant world usually meant to sit on the side lines, to converse and be friends with other reps of unimportant worlds. Granted the previous representative of Nilfeheim managed to gain some importance, but it took him many decades and he became a voice in the financial and trade council.Still Erik Ragnarsson was no celebrity and few outside the financial and trade commission knew about him. This Egill however was in constant contact with the First among the Saresii and the Narth. The Saresii have been an important voice even when they have been members in the old, the first Galactic Council, long before the Union existed and then of course the Narth. He doubted there was even one member of the Assembly who did not listen when the Narth spoke. Now these three were called the Three Wise Men and approached daily for advice and opinion. The 'Assembly Mirror' was the oldest news media agency reporting daily of what happened at the Assembly and it now featured a Column called the 'Wise Man Digest'. If one believed the claims of the Mirror it was among the most popular features and read daily by almost seventy seven percent of the adult Union population. That was a considerable percentage especially considering that these Union citizens also voted in line with those recommendations. Larthop was aboard a Cruise Liner and on its way to a world called Tink. It was far down in the outer reaches of Core Ward Sector. Most of this sector was unexplored, but only about two years ago, the Tinkehel had joined the Union and from there it was not far to Koken. He sat in one of the plush bar lounges of the Cruise ship, a real French Cognac on the side table next to him. He did not wear his robe, but an expensive but inconspicuous business suit. Even with a Cruise ship it was a long trip and the ship would stop at several Klack worlds, at Archa and then make the long trip to Tink. He used the time to educate himself, conference with his assets and agents. He learned that the Three Men had arrived in a fast Saresii ship at Perryton and from a contact he learned they then left for Nilfeheim. Maybe it was possible to intercept and capture them in space. Former Admiral Swybar had both the means and a fast ship. Attempting such a feat of course was about as risky as could be. Having three prominent members of the Assembly captured deep in Union Space, would stirr a Hornets nest of unprecedented proportions. Union would go to war and scour the entire galaxy, turn every rock and squeeze every info source. No this was not the way to go, besides it would not be easy anyway.The Saresii ship was certainly not slow and could only be attacked in real space, meaning at its destination. Not that he had reliable contact to Swybar anyway. His agents had deleted and destroyed any real documents at the temple on Perryton and placed forged documents in their place. Making the Temple an independent sect and not part of the Church of Darkness, it helped greatly that the girl or someone else with her had killed all those who could have been interrogated to tell otherwise. It cost him a considerable fortune in bribes and fees to fabricate a new history for the dead men. They were now members of a small crime syndicate using religion as a cover for Califerm smuggle. Documents were well hidden but findable, explaining the reason for abducting the girl that she was a witness to dealings. It would lead to a few arrests; some local Perryton gangsters had been sold out and connected to the affair not even knowing it yet. But what mattered is that there was no traceable connection to his church, and the Feds had plenty to investigate and arrest and hang. It would fade away and be forgotten soon, if everything worked as he had planned and put in motion. He leaned back and took a sip of the smooth liquor he loves so much. Carlos Primeros, directly from Spain Earth, weapons and fine liquor no one could beat the crazy Terrans in these areas. Across the lobby was a group of horrifying looking Archa gathered around a large table. He noticed the server bringing them, what looked like bowls of ice cream. There was much leg waving and high pitched voices as it was served. While he was certain no one followed him, it always paid to know who is around you. A little to the left were two Human, most likely Terrans as they smoked and one of them had sunglasses shoved into his hair. From the looks and the open thoughts he received they were Environmental specialists on their way to Tink. Larthop avoided using active Psionics to probe the other traveler's minds, if there was someone else around with such abilities he could end up being charged with illegal mind reading. A group of three humanoid but not human men arrived from the IST, while they continued walking to the bar, one of them stopped and starred at the big View ports. It was obvious he hadn't travelled much before. He was close enough for Larthop to say. "It never stops to amaze me either." The man wore a white suit and had skin that reminded him of pale wax. "It is beyond description. Not so long I lived in a dirt mound, hiding in the woods.I believed all life beyond mere survial was gone forever. Living like an animal in the mud, avoided and being ashamed for being a scientist. Now I am on my way back home, after visiting the most incredible place in the Universe." His eyes glowed with an almost fanatic shine. "I was on Pluribus Unum, representing our planet. I am Qualnat of the Tinkehel." "I am Joh Haneel and I am a Writer. I write articles for Planet and Life Magazine and I am on my way to Tink to write an article about it and then see if there are any other planets in the area. This is new territory for the Union after all." "I am the elected Representative of Tink and I would like to invite you to be our guest. I can show you whatever you like to see. There is also Koken, not far from Tink. It is the planet of Origin of the Kermac and there is much to see and write about as well." "Oh that sounds intriguing as well. Can anyone go there?" "I think they let only scientists and scholars go there, but a writer is a type of scholar. While I show you Tink, I am sure I can contact and convince my brother who is part of the Excavation team to get you an invitation." Larthop could not believe his luck and used gentle psionic suggestions to make the Tinkehel think of him as a real good friend. He did not notice the woman that had entered the Lounge shortly after the Tinkehel.

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