Journey.odt 8



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Chapter 16: Cadet Olafson 

Chapter 16 - Cadet OlafsonThe orange haired woman took the mirror thing from her face as I left the Admirals office and she leaned forward over her desk." There is a washroom right over there."

I gave her a thankful smile. After I had freshened up I asked her." How did you know I needed to go?"

She smiled." I am Cheeka and I come from Phantas." She said that as if it would explain everything. Her eyes blinked and she added." Phantas is an old Terran Colony, much like Nilfeheim and we all have Psionic abilities, including telepathy."

I groaned. "Can everyone do that but me?"

She laughed. "No, Cadet. It really only appears that way to you at the moment. You have been accepted to the Academy and if you graduate successfully you will know a whole lot more about Psionics and how to defend yourself against it too."

"That would be a good thing. I still can't believe I actually got accepted and the whole affair with the Ult was just a staged thing."

She got up and pointed at an elegant looking serv-matic. "It's about my coffee time. Would you want some too?" I nodded. "Yes I am quite thirsty actually."

She was quite attractive to look at. She had a very nice body, and she wore a short black skirt that reminded me of Sif's outfit when I saw her at the Space port and transparent shiny leg covers with a hint of black encased her legs. Her blouse was white, and void of any rank insignia, but her quite large breasts underneath made up for the lack of military decoration and was quite effective to catch an eye, at least mine. Her behind reminded in shape of an apple like the ones I had seen in the Caves of Muspelheim and it looked nice and round in that skirt as she worked on the Serve-Matic. I unexpectedly thought how that skirt would look on me. I had to be careful about my secret, especially here were everyone could see what I was thinking and tried to supress it.

She turned and handed me a cup." These are called stockings." She slid a hand over her knee and said." Yet another fashion from Terra and are once again real big in fashion." The she said." I am glad you like what you see."

The door opened and the silver haired woman came out of the Admirals office." Cadet Olafson what are you still doing here. I thought you are already processed."

The orange haired woman said." General, I offered the Cadet a cup of coffee. It was not his fault."

The silver haired woman who had the rank of a General was beautiful. Quite different from the girlish secretary, in an angelic non-human way smiled and this time it reached her large purple eyes." Carry on then finish your coffee and do have a few of the cookies, Cheeka was about to offer you. She makes them herself and they are quite legendary in the Academy Administration. After that I suggest you don't delay your processing for too long." Then she shook her and walked of." Barley a day in the navy and already flirting with the Civilian personnel. Mr Olafson I think you found your calling indeed."

The secretary waited till the woman had disappeared in one of the IBT's and said." That was General Alyica Lichfangh. She is the Commanding officer of the mighty PSI Corps, and it is said that she is the most powerful Psionic talented person in the Galaxy."

I sighed. "I just realized just how much I really have to learn." Then I drained the cup in one gulp and put it down." Thanks for the coffee. I better go."

<p lang="en-US">"You're welcome Cadet Olafson. I am known around here as Cheeka. I do not have a military rank; I am just the big guys' executive assistant. Maybe when you come back from basic we can have a cup of coffee again and talk about stockings or other things."

<p lang="en-US">I smiled. "That would be nice indeed."

<p lang="en-US">Cheeka pointed at the IBT." Tell the IBT to drop you off at the Quarter master processing level 6. I make sure they have your paper work."

<p lang="en-US">I thanked her waved once more and told the Inter Base Transport to drop me of at said location. There in a curving corridor another long line of orange dressed applicants. A bright yellow skinned being that reminded me of a bird crossed with a lemon and no taller than maybe 40 centimeters jumped before me, wearing a black uniform and with a high pitched voice." Cadet Olafson. I just received instructions to place you in line four B." The yellow being hovered before me and motioned me to take a spot between two other applicants.

<p lang="en-US">I wondered how Derek and Mix faired and how far they had come in this process. I wanted to tell them about the Ult who was actually the Commandant. But the chances they were here in the same line were slim. This was like a factory processing thousands upon thousands of applicants and perhaps this was the closest concept to describe this directed madness.

<p lang="en-US">A humanoid shaped being wearing a completely enclosed orange jump suit stood before me. His suit had an attached hood that was drawn closely around his head and as he turned there was a mirrored face plate before his actual face. While others had their names stencilled across the chest, he only had a number, 3452-991.

<p lang="en-US">I asked. "May I ask why you got a number instead of a name?"

<p lang="en-US">Its voice came from a speaker unit in his shoulder and it sounded exactly like the artificial generated female voice every standard Computronic had." I do not mind. I am a Non Corp. We did not develop the same as corporal beings. We had no need for names, before we were discovered and became a member species. We recognize and address each other in a different way. However when interacting with other Union species outside our natural environment it is helpful to have an individual designation and this number comes very close to what we see when we identify one of us."

<p lang="en-US">I wished I could have talked to the non Corp a little more but the line was moving quite rapidly and we had reached a door were two officers, one human and one Insectoid Klack split us up. To the Non-Corp the human officer said." Non Corp Cadet to the right and through that corridor." And the Klack send me to the other. It turned out to be a slide belt that conveyed me into a large Auto Dresser unit and I emerged on the other side and moments later wearing an actual uniform, it was deep green and completely void of rank insignia, but on the sleeve was the Union Flag. I did not know if it was the same or a different Klack who greeted me at the other side." Welcome Cadet Olafson you have now been officially accepted and processed. Please do not ask any questions at this point, as there is no time. Follow the others to the next station where you receive your ribbon display, your Military Id Imprint and your Code Key surgery."

<p lang="en-US">I really wanted to ask what a Code key surgery entailed, as I in general did not like the idea of surgeries and doctors all that much, but the Klack ignored me and addressed the next person behind me in the exact same manner.

<p lang="en-US">The next room had two long counters on each side. Robots and beings behind the counter handed out large bags. A project a sign flashed with my name and guided me to a spot at the left counter. A bearded man chewing on something said." Cadet Olafson?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir."

<p lang="en-US">A robot next to him snarled." Identity verified. Race specifications and measurement scan complete. Basic Gear assembled and ready."

<p lang="en-US">The man pointed at a large E pad screen installed into the counter. Sign your name here. With your signature you verify you have received all your basic gear, complete and in good condition."

<p lang="en-US">"Should I not check it first before I sign it?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes regulations actually, that you take the print out and check every item, but your gear has been assembled by robots." He sighed." I skip this part since it would slow things down even further!"

<p lang="en-US">"I sure don't want that!" I said and signed it.

<p lang="en-US">After this we got a blank flex screen attached to our uniform. The man putting it there said." This is your ribbon display. It will show all your military specializations and qualifications and of course any citations you earn. Yours will most likely remain pretty empty until you graduate, but it is required to be worn on all uniforms. It is linked to you and cannot be given to another person or altered in any way or form. That is a serious offense."

<p lang="en-US">He tapped the display with his finger and the thing made a chirping sound. He looked at it and grinned." Wow you actually got a few citations as it looks like: Honor Citizen of Twilight, Civil Duty service ribbon and Executioners Axe." He grinned." Nice to see the ribbon display actually works." He waved me on and said." Next!"

<p lang="en-US">Code Key surgery was a big auto dresser type device that used micro-Nanite surgery to make a little skin pocket somewhere on the body. Its location so I was told was chosen randomly so it would not be always at the same place. During the procedure a voice explained." All officers of all branches of the United Stars services receive a code key pocket. It is a small 2 centimeter by 1 centimeter cavity and a few millimeters deep. A bio plastic key made of the same cell material as the body will be placed in it. No normal scan will reveal it. It is used as an extra security measure to access restricted areas or information. You and all Cadets accepted have the security clearance Blue. That is the lowest security clearance and sufficient for all Academy tasks and procedures. How, when and why you need that key will be explained to you in the appropriate training class."

<p lang="en-US">The procedure itself was painless and my code key pocket was at my left underarm.

<p lang="en-US">Along with others I entered an immense mess hall. I guessed at least 500 beings were sitting or in the process of sitting at long rows of tables.

<p lang="en-US">I didn't see Derek or Max, but I saw the methane breather and it waved at me with one of its tentacles." Over here, Eric human."

<p lang="en-US">I took the free seat next to him and the Garbini said." I never thought we finally end up here. I felt like a product in a factory."

<p lang="en-US">"I know I felt the same way. Seeing the scope of things I start to realize just how big an organization Space Fleet actually is."

<p lang="en-US">"Now that you say it. I heard there are fifty mess halls like this one right here and this isn't the only Academy branch in the Galaxy. There are many more!"

<p lang="en-US">The tables where set with fine china and glasses.

<p lang="en-US">After about an hour every seat so it looked like was filled. An officer in black uniform, somewhat humanoid but with horns and a face that made him look like a ram addressed us all while standing on a floating metal disc so everyone could see him. I was sure his voice was transmitted to field speakers nearby as he did not talk very loud but I could clearly hear him." This will be your first real meal as Cadets. It will also be your first lesson.

<p lang="en-US">"An Officer of the United Stars Fleet will always display the finest table manners. We will use napkins and eating utensils whenever possible. We will learn to use the Eating utensils of other cultures but the Fleet recognizes sticks, fork, knife and spoon as basic and useable by almost all member species.

<p lang="en-US">"Enlisted men can eat a sandwich while walking through a corridor, an officer may not. An enlisted man may yawn, scratch himself or do those many little things beings do without really thinking, often perhaps insulting or revolting to others. Officers will not do that. It takes great and seemingly impossible self-awareness and control to suppress these often almost instinctive things, but those of you who complete this training will and it becomes second nature."

<p lang="en-US">His platform slowly rotated and now I was facing his back. The officer was still speaking." However as officers you also have certain privileges, you do not stand in line for food at the chow line, like enlisted personnel does. You will be served whenever possible and unless it is a buffet. The food will be served now, but don't eat until I say so. Until the most senior officer is served and has given the toast, you will not touch the food."

<p lang="en-US">He clapped his gloved hands together and an army of white dressed beings started to serve plates with food.

<p lang="en-US">The Officer raised a glass." Welcome Citizens of the Union and Welcome new Cadets, may this be the first meal you are partaking in the company of fellow officers and I sincerely hope it will not be the last. May the day come in many years from now that you remember this first meal as a very special occasion and important marker in your lives? I wish all of you success and hope to see each of you one day in Fleet black!"

<p lang="en-US">He raised the glass he was holding." On the behalf of the United Stars of the Galaxy and in the name of the Admiral of the Fleet I welcome you all. Now enjoy your meal."

<p lang="en-US">During the meal instructors walked down the table isles and gave pointers as how to eat correctly. To my Methane breathing friend one of them said:" A Garbini Officer folds his unused tentacles on his back in the Naglag position. Fulran morsels are to be dipped only once and with the right eating tentacle only. Don't let me see you using your left and dipping twice again!"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir." The Garbini uttered even though he was quite alien I could sense its surprise that a small furry being in black Uniform knew so much about Garbini proper eating etiquette." He just sounds like my father!"

<p lang="en-US">I was not spared either. The same being barked at me:" Dap your lips with the napkin before you reach for the glass. Cut only what you intended to eat right away, don't cut everything, drop the knife and shovel it like a barbarian."

<p lang="en-US">I wanted to argue and tell him Neo Vikings are the very definition of what barbarians are and they didn't use forks at all, but I thought better and said: "Yes Sir."

<p lang="en-US">After the meal we went to a big dorm, with Vari-Form beds that adjusted to the body needs and sizes of any known being.

<p lang="en-US">The instructors where everywhere and the same ram horned Officer that addressed us at the meal spoke again: "Being an officer is not a job it is a profession. Being an officer is a status, a mind-set that does not end with you taking off your uniform or go sleep. You are an Officer even when you are naked, hung by your toes or equivalent body part over a boiling pot of oil. You are an officer and expected to act with certain restrains in any possible situation. You will maintain a perfect state of dignity and unquestionable conduct at all times. Almost all sentient life forms we encountered have some form of body hygiene procedures. The Fleet has standardized these procedures to accommodate all beings and none of you will die or get harmed when touched by soap and water or a sonic shower. I want you to be on top of your species hygiene procedures at all times. No one will order you to be clean and well groomed but it is expected. Tomorrow morning will be the only time in your entire Academy career where you get a dedicated time period to do so. After that you must use your free time and schedule it correctly to be groomed well. This includes your uniforms and personal equipment. It has to be clean, spot less, in good repair and put on correctly according to Fleet regulations. "

<p lang="en-US">He took a breather." Well that is all for now, sleep well!"

<p lang="en-US">The lights dimmed and someone in a bed nearby talked to someone else in a low tone." He is a Nogoll; I wonder how he ended up telling us what to do!"

<p lang="en-US">How the words were overheard I could not say, but perhaps they did monitor conversations! The Ram faced Officer approached the neighbour bed and the lights came back on." The question was raised why I, a Nogoll can tell you what to do." He paused a moment." I have the right because you give it to me. No one here was drafted or forced to join. Any of you might at any time quit. You can get up right now, walk to the Dorm Supervisor and say so. You receive the pay you earned and a ticket to wherever Space Buses go.

<p lang="en-US">"Look around you, you will find members of almost every civilization within this very dorm. You will eat, sleep, fight and if necessary die together. You are not human, not Klack or Shiss or Garbini or Nogoll you are now Union Fleet. We will fight if necessary to the last breath, but we are not the Marines. We will give quarter if quarter is asked. We will honor the flag of truce and we will treat our enemies with respect. Prejudgement and racism will not be tolerated. An enlisted man may hate an enemy; you will not base your judgement on anyone enemy or friend based on emotions or assumptions but on facts. This is our creed and our oath: A Cadet will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor discriminate against another sentient on the basis of origin, sex, creed, religion or racial differences."

<p lang="en-US">Again the lights dimmed and he spoke to the cadet who had asked the question." I am aware that my species was and is an enemy of the Union and it is quite likely that Union ships fight with Nogoll ships right now. While it causes great sorrow to me I will follow any order given. If you have charges or accusations against my character or conduct you are welcome to bring them forward."

<p lang="en-US">"No Sir."

<p lang="en-US">"Very well then, sleep well!"

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 17: Auditorium

Interlude: Nogoll

<p lang="en-US">Ealy Sluper, commandant of the 28th superb battle group was certain he witnessed the end of his species and he wondered what he could possibly do to prevent that. He once commanded over 200 of the finest Nogoll Battle ships. Shiny eight hundred meter giants, the very pinnacle of Nogoll technology with the finest equipment of other Galactic Council civilizations, now he retreated with eighty units form the Arlicherb system, barely escaping the terrible onslaught of Union power. Arlicherb Colony had been the pride of the Nogoll kingdom. It was once a beautiful world, the natives were willingly and gladly serving the Nogoll, like the Nogoll used to serve the Kermac. The Nogoll did not need to be controlled by Kermac Psionics, they were glad they had a powerful master with a plan for galactic domination. It was a shock to the Nogoll to be suddenly expelled from the Galactic Council, just because of a small mistake the Commandant of the 56th made. Not that he even could be punished for it, as he did not return fighting with the Dai Than against the Union.

The Kermac had abandoned the Nogoll and unlike the Union the Nogoll did not have instantaneous communication, it took weeks for the news to reach every Nogoll world and ship. It was not Captain Erberbs fault as he questioned and then attacked a convoy of Union Freighter Ships approaching theInos System and an Elly World

<p lang="en-US">Elly world he thought were Galactic Council he did not know that things had changed. The Elly always had an eye on the entire Inos System a source of dispute between the Nogoll and Elly for many centuries. The System almost equidistant to both the Elly and Nogoll home worlds sported not one but four rich garden worlds in addition to three rock worlds especially rich in boron and rare earths.

<p lang="en-US">While both the Elly and the Nogoll were Galactic Council it was no problem, the Kermac decided rightly in favor of the Nogoll and gave the Nogoll 4 planets and the Elly got three. The Elly were under Psionic control anyway and were allowed to mine the rich earths for the Nogoll.

<p lang="en-US">The Union however took this as welcomed excuse to retaliate with such excessive harshness by attacking all Nogoll forces in the system and orbital bombing two of the colony worlds that the Nogoll First Billie had no choice but to declare war against the Union.

<p lang="en-US">It would be a short war, Ealy was sure of that. Even with the combined might of all GC allies it would have been difficult, but standing alone against the Union was nothing short of self inflicted genocide. One of his aides had handed him the latest intelligence report. While the Nogoll were fighting for survival, this conflict barely made the Union News!

<p lang="en-US">Of course they could do the same as the White fur Nogoll did many years ago and join the Union, but that was not his decision to make and as long as the First Billie and his government told him to fight he would do so to the very end. He was certain that Sreal of the Itsna Dynasty, the current first Billie would never consider Union Membership; he was an Itsna through and through, proud, stubborn and narrow sighted.

<p lang="en-US">He wondered how his four Nannies on Arlicherb fared. Would they try to fight, commit suicide or be slaughtered by Orbital Assault Marines?

<p lang="en-US">His heart cramped and he wished he could stay and fight to the last ship, but he had to be a commander and warrior first. Regroup in the Ontbe-System where the rally point of the Nogoll fleets was. Ontbe was the last of two systems before The Nog, their home system and place of the holy mountain.

Sluper had no delusions, he knew The Nog could already be attacked by Union forces, but he knew the enemy. They were methodical they would attack Ontbe and Erba before taking The Nog last. The Nogoll would try to make the assault on Ontbe so costly that the Union would retreat or ask for a cease fire.

<p lang="en-US">Once more he glanced at the Intelligence report. It was actually simply a Union Fleet News report, printed out over Trans Light Fax intercepted from the Elly, who still used the same communication technology as the Nogoll.

<p lang="en-US">Sluper always thought the TLFAX was an enormous technological achievement, able to send reports and messages over 20 light year distance in only eight hours, until he heard that every Union citizen could talk to anyone else in the Union, send pictures and data over any distance instantaneous.

<p lang="en-US">He found the first mention of the Nogoll war on page eight of the report. It read: After the Nogoll attack on Union assets, ships and civilians in the Inos System and the Nogoll declaring war against the Elly and the Union it was decided to let new newly appointed Rear Admiral deal with the Nogoll. Even though there are voices in Union Fleet command criticizing the decision to commit almost two percent of Union Fleet assets to the fray. From his vacation on Para-Para, the Immortal Admiral Stahl however expressed full and complete confidence in Admiral Flegel's abilities to deal with the Nogoll and use the opportunity to test new equipment in battle conditions. Fleet Command agrees this to be a perfect opportunity to test the new Gazelle Long range fighters and the new Cerberus XI robots. First reports on the new Orbit to Surface cluster bombs are very satisfactory.

<p lang="en-US">Commandant Sluper crushed the pages between his didn't even take this war serious! The Nogoll would disappear forever, wiped of the galactic stage by a giant and sold out by another.

<p lang="en-US">Sluper turned to his Helm Officer, "Set course to Kermac Prime! Signal the course change to all remaining ships and go to full speed."

<p lang="en-US">Then he said to his tactical officer."Prepare the planetary bombers for launch as soon as we reach Kermac Prime. The Nogoll will die and vanish, but not without making those pay who sold us out!"

Chapter 17: Auditorium

<p lang="en-US">I felt I just went to bed as they woke us and gave us what I felt way too little time to get bathed and groomed.

<p lang="en-US">But Neo Vikings were early risers and having warmed almost hot water for shower and hygiene was actually a new experience for me. Even though the shower stalls had privacy screens, seeing human girls with nothing more than a towel entering the hygiene cells was quite something.

<p lang="en-US">"Cadet Olafson don't just stand there and stare, there are others that need to use that cell!" One of the even here present Instructors barked. I nodded and was glad he wasn't a telepath.

<p lang="en-US">He added."I am Olafson, almost all Instructors are. "

<p lang="en-US">I cursed and felt the blood rush to my head. He no longer paid attention to me and reprimanded a gorgeous girl with copper colored skin and dark green hair." The timer said eight minutes shower time, not eleven, get moving!"

<p lang="en-US">After a breakfast conducted with the same formality as the dinner the day before we were assembled in a large room to receive our first instructions.

<p lang="en-US">It was almost like being back in Basic School, only on a much bigger scale. The class room had room for at least 200 beings and it filled up to the last seat. The students tables were arranged in a half circle fashion on rows of tiers, much like in a theatre. My table neighbor was the Non Corp. He now wore like everyone else, a dark green uniform; his was completely sealed and before the tight fitting hood, he still wore that gold plated mirrored face plate.

<p lang="en-US">Down below in the center of the room was a lectern and behind it a large field screen. It showed an animated image of the flag of the United Stars of the Galaxy: the stylized white spiral arm galaxy on a dark blue oval field and four red and three white vertical stripes. I knew the three white stripes symbolized the three founding species Terrans, Saran and Pan Saran. The four red stripes represented the four civilizations that have joined in the first decade of its existence namely the Ult, the Saresii, the Vantax and the Garbini. The color scheme was taken from the original United Terra Flag and the white Spiral arm galaxy used to represent the M-0 Galaxy, but with the expansion into the Andromeda Galaxy and other extra galactic areas it meant to represent all Galaxies with Union Members.

<p lang="en-US">A repeating text message ordered us to find a seat and remain quiet until the instructor would come at 0700 hours. There were still eight minutes to go.

<p lang="en-US">I was amazed by the diversity of beings in green uniforms around me. Even though humanoids were in the majority, there were no blocks. Humanoids and non humanoids shared tables.

<p lang="en-US">The female computronic voice of the Non Corp said." You are the human asking me about my name in the line before the Auto Dressers are you not?"

<p lang="en-US">I nodded."Yes that was me!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am still learning to differentiate human shapes and facial features. You are human and you are a male, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I am human and I am male. You are female I gather?"

<p lang="en-US">"No I am not. My species has no gender. I wonder why everyone thinks I am female."

<p lang="en-US">"It is your voice, it sounds female."

<p lang="en-US">"Oh that would explain it. These containment suits come with the voice modulators built in. Since I am non corporal I don't have ears and the concept of acoustics and sounds are very new to us as well.

<p lang="en-US">"So you really live on the surface of a star?"

<p lang="en-US">"My family used to, but we Non Corps occupy not just the surface of a star, besides it is very hard to define the word surface on a sun in the first place. It's more like layers of many surfaces; we define regions in magnetic bubbles.

"While I came into existence on our star, my family moved to Bright Shine Station to be more integrated Union citizens as it is very important to us to do our share. I have not really lived on our Star for very long."

<p lang="en-US">"I wonder how it would be to live on a star."

<p lang="en-US">"We don't so much live on the star as with the star. It is complicated to explain but there are several books written both by Non Corps and humans that are much better explaining it. I think there is even a Virtu Experience allowing corporal beings to experience it themselves, I am not exactly a scholar and could not put it in adequate terms, besides its not all that great I personally prefer to live on a station or a planet. I like having things you know. One can't have anything on a star. There is nothing solid either and I love solid things, to actually lie down on a bed and realize the three dimensions in an orderly fashion is sheer bliss."

<p lang="en-US">I was fascinated by the Non-Corps Answers." I think I will read those books, you recommended." It was the first time I really considered to follow up and read a book on my own for sure.

<p lang="en-US">"I am Three-four-five-two dash nine-nine-one, but you can call me Three-four. Where are you from?"

<p lang="en-US">"Nice to meet you Three-four, I am Eric and I come from Nilfeheim. That is a rocky cold water covered world in the old Xunx Expanse."

<p lang="en-US">"Oh a water world, I doubt there is anything more alien to me than water or liquids. I can watch a running water faucet for hours it never stops to amaze me! I bet you actually go swimming and have contact with the water, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I do. Swimming and diving is second nature to me, but it is not as important anymore as it was to most of my kind."

<p lang="en-US">A small statured deep blue skinned and bald headed officer stepped behind the lectern asked us to settle down and be quiet and began to address us." I am Lt. Tentwor, I am as you can see a Blue and come from the Andromeda Galaxy, even though my species has its roots right here in this Galaxy. Some of you may know that the Blue started out on the same world as the Kermac, but while we are of the same species we are not the same race and Union members for almost exactly 500 years.

"I am an instructor on the academy for nine years now and I believe I might just have the best job in our Galaxies." He made a gesture that incorporated the class room." It is a special privilege to be one of the first to welcome you and to educate you. I see two hundred beings before me and all of you have managed to pass the first hurdles, tests and obstacles. You can be proud of yourselves. For everyone here 1000 Applicants have not met the requirements to become officers, most of them will still have a chance to serve as enlisted but you passed the first tests, for this I am issuing you all the Plebes Dot."

<p lang="en-US">He paused as the cadets around me looked at their ribbon displays and a small rectangular icon appeared a green field with a red dot. Three-Four asked."Do I get it too?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes it's there!"

<p lang="en-US">Tentwor raised his voice a little." Now that you all had a chance to see that your ribbon display actually works and you all got your first citation. Let me continue."

<p lang="en-US">Behind him the display on the screen changed and small images of beings and planets floated and swirled together into a representation of the Union Fleet Logo, the Galaxy inside a circle surrounded by many little stars and a triangular arrow shape before it, symbolizing the upward motion of a space ship lifting off. He pointed to the image behind him." Beings from all across the Union, from the most diverse backgrounds and civilizations are here to do their share to assure the safety of everyone else. Be assured you have earned my deepest respect for this decision. "He changed his stance and saluted us and said." Your journey will be a hard one and you might find conditions inhuman, unfair or impossible to endure, but it is done to prepare you for what lies ahead. As hard and demanding your training and education might appear to you, consider that millions have done it before you."

<p lang="en-US">The auditorium's lights dimmed and a top view of our galaxy appeared in all its magnificent glory before us, the bright glowing center from where the spiral arms reached into space.

<p lang="en-US">We only heard his voice as the Instructor continued talking. "This is our Galaxy, a SBbc type Barred Spiral Arm. It has a diameter of 100,000 light years and is almost exactly 1000 light years thick. According to our latest data it contains 390 billion stars. Not counting the globular clusters that technically belong to this galaxy as well. It visualizes how small the Union with all its planets and members is, compared to the Galaxy and the Universe and perhaps it shows best why we need a fleet that protects our space and our way of life."

<p lang="en-US">His voice paused for a moment and then he continued." Those are numbers that help us to understand but I doubt that any of you and including me can really fathom what those numbers represent, with the exception of perhaps the Narth."

<p lang="en-US">A deep voice from somewhere else in the auditorium said." I shall attempt then to assist you doing that, Sir."

<p lang="en-US">The instructor's voice sighed." Your offer is duly noted Cadet Narth, but right now I need to continue this class."

<p lang="en-US">While I wondered who this Cadet was. Lt. Tentwor resumed his lecture and the image of the Galaxy became smaller and other Galaxies came into view." Our Galaxy is, as you all know part of what is known the local group, thirty two galaxies with its gravitational center located pretty much exactly between our Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy and as you can easily attest by simply looking around this very auditorium these Galaxies are teaming with life. Life so it appears can manifest in the most unusual places. Ranging from the depths of oceans, to deep space and the very surface of stars and when life becomes sentient and is capable of starting a civilization they often leave their place of origin behind and start to explore and expand. "

<p lang="en-US">My Non-Corp friend sighed."He's talking about us, but without the help of the Union we could have never left our star. How can you build a civilization when you can have nothing solid?"

<p lang="en-US">"I can imagine!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am going to be a good cadet and a good officer and perhaps we find another civilization like ours and then we can help!"

<p lang="en-US">The Instructor said louder." A good Cadet also keeps comments for itself until I am done!"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir! Sorry Sir!" Three-Four managed to make his Computer voice sound apologetic.

Tentwor smiled and continued." A civilization that leaves its cradle and discovers faster than light technology ascents, it raises so to speak from their planetary cradle, their gravity well and step on the galactic stage.

"Once a civilization has ascended sooner or later they will find out they are not the only ones who have done the exact same thing. Meeting another civilization often is a great shock. Some cultures are older and travel space much longer than others and the civilization that had just stepped on the Galactic stage suddenly find out that space as boundless and endless it seemed to them, has borders and restricted areas, spaceclaimed by other civilizations."

<p lang="en-US">The view once more centered on our Spiral Arm Galaxy and four lines appeared, dividing the image vertically and the other horizontally through the center. "Our Galaxy we often refer to as M-0 has four quadrants. On the upper left is Upward, below left Coreward. On the right upper side is Spinward and below right Downward.

<p lang="en-US">A spherical blue field appeared inside the Upward Sector. The field was not a smooth sphere but bulged and dented all over.

<p lang="en-US">"Most of Union space is in the Upward Quadrant."

<p lang="en-US">Three blue dots appeared.

<p lang="en-US">"The dots that you see now in the upward section of the Orion Arm represent the locations of Earth, Saran and Pan Saran, the three civilizations that came together and founded the United Stars of the Galaxy."

<p lang="en-US">More and more dots appeared and in an increasing speed.

"Since then we added 5,019 civilizations spread over 800,000 Star systems and about five million planets. As you can see a blue sphere has appeared Coreward. This is the Klack Empire that has joined the Union a little over two hundred years ago. Beyond the Klack that tiny bulge there is the Archa Expanse.

<p lang="en-US">"All that space in Coreward below the Klack is unexplored space. As you can see most of Downward is unexplored." The Image focused now on the upper right quarter. "Up there in Spinward that is where we are right now and we are still close to Upward space. You may notice the red and blue striped area blinking all around us. That was former Galactic Council space, claimed by the Nogoll and until lately protected by the Big Four Treaty. The Nogoll have attacked one of our new members, the Elly up here and declared war upon the Union shortly thereafter. All this are still consequences of the Dai Than Invasion in the Prometheus Five Nebula area, which is down here."

<p lang="en-US">The magnification increased and focused on an area of space about 100 light years above the marked position of Arsenal.

<p lang="en-US">A spotlight focused on the Blue and the instructor pointed into the darkened room. My eyes able to see in much darker condition under water saw a cadet standing with his hand up.

<p lang="en-US">The Instructor said." Cadet Kolmin you have a question?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Sir, I do. I am among the first Elly joining the Union Academy. Should I not go and volunteer and fight? There are perhaps humans dying right now defending my home worlds!"

<p lang="en-US">"Your concern is understandable, and you are doing your part right now becoming an officer. Yes there will be casualties and they must be replaced. You doing your part that we always have soldiers, space men, marines and Officers to defend the Union and its members."

<p lang="en-US">The Instructor made the screen focus on that area and the magnification increased until the Elly star systems became visible and identified by text next to the stars. "I dialed up the actual tactical chart for you, Cadet. As you can see there is no fighting anywhere near Elly Worlds anymore and military action concentrates on the last three Nogoll systems. "

<p lang="en-US">The chart returned to Galaxy view and the Instructor said." Meet me after this instructions and I will make an exception and let you call home to make sure your families are all right!"

<p lang="en-US">The Elly thanked the Officer and sat back down.

<p lang="en-US">The Blue looked down at his lectern."Now where was I? "A red dot wandered across the Galaxy representation to a thin blue line emerging on the outer rim of Spinward. The magnification reduced until we could see then Magellan Clouds and Andromeda. The Blue Line connected both Galaxies."This line, Cadets, represents the Bridge connecting this Galaxy with M31.A string of space stations allowing traffic and connection to Andromeda. Seventeen civilizations have joined our union there. "

<p lang="en-US">The Image focused on the second spiral galaxy and in it a small blue area.

<p lang="en-US">"Just the day before yesterday, the Arlboro Hegemony applied for membership at Pluribus Unum. I am sure some of you heard the news on GalNet. The Arlboro are as advanced as we are and add their space to ours. The Arlboro globular cluster contains many million stars and over 20,000 stars systems of it are settled or claimed by the Arlboro that are as of today officially Union Territory. I believe there are several Arlboro Cadets already among us."

<p lang="en-US">A voice in the dark confirmed that." There are 700 of us here at Arsenal, Lieutenant."

<p lang="en-US">"This is what I meant when I said that I have the best job in the Galaxy. It is always a pleasure and a special honor to greet new members. I am certain we will learn a great deal from each other in the years and decades to come, as it takes time to fully integrate a new member into the union."

<p lang="en-US">On the projected image of our Galaxy spheres of other colors appeared and the Instructor returned to the subject." There have been empires and galaxy spawning cultures and civilizations before the Union in this Galaxy, and some rose to great power and spanned the entire spiral. We know of quite a few but we are certain there have been many more. The oldest Star in our Galaxy is a little over 17 billion years old and during that time till today many civilizations have risen and fallen. However our union differs from all those we know about, as we are not an Empire, not a kingdom but a Union. Not ruled or dominated by one culture but jointly occupied by all united under common rules, goals and laws that apply equally to all. Of course in terms of Galactic Civilizations we are still at the very beginning. Three thousand standard years is not a very long time by any standard measuring the progress of civilizations, but we are not new at it anymore and we begin to mature. The Union is strong but as you can see even 400,000 star systems are next to nothing to a volume of 390 billion stars. The Union has friends out there as well as enemies. We had to fight several big and violent wars and there have been a large number of smaller conflicts.

<p lang="en-US">The Shiss, the Nul-Nul and the Galactic Community ruled by the Kermac are currently our biggest adversaries, even though we currently enjoy a period of peace, there are reports of fights and battles along the Nul border almost daily. It is not really a war, and we have almost no diplomatic contact with the Nul and neither side really tries to advance into the other side's territory, but real war could break out at any moment. The Shiss are in open war against the Nul for over a thousand years. The Shiss are also hostile to us, but during our last open war against the Shiss we won much ground and the Shiss lost much of their original might and influence in this part of the Galaxy, partly due to their long war against the Nul.

<p lang="en-US">Our most dangerous known adversary is the Galactic Council. We fought three all out galactic wars against the Kermac and their slave species, each time we won and during the last war the GC signed a Cease Fire and there have been no open hostilities, but tensions between our governments are always high. Then there is Free Space, a huge area of our Galaxy protected by treaties signed by the big four: Union, Shiss, Nul and GC. Free space is home to thousands of independent planets and small empires that are not associated to any of the Big Four.

<p lang="en-US">The largest portion of the Galaxy remains unexplored and chances are high other civilizations live there as well.

<p lang="en-US">Since the Union exists the Galaxy has been attacked twice by Civilizations not native to ours. The Y'All and the Piostla."

<p lang="en-US">Images of the four armed Y'All and the plantlike Piostla and their ships appeared replacing the projection of the Spiral Galaxy

<p lang="en-US">"The Y'All so it appears return every 5000 years and always with an incredible large armada of highly advanced space ships and it appears without any other purpose than to kill and destroy. Last time they returned they were met by our new Union and beaten for the very first time.

<p lang="en-US">The Piostla caused much havoc and death during their invasion but we managed to beat them as well and chase them back from wherever they came from. Since it happened before it is quite possible that it will happen again.

<p lang="en-US">To all this add the space roaming Dai Thaan Pirate Clans and the regular criminal pirates raiding the fringes of our Union.

<p lang="en-US">So you see the Universe is a dangerous place and dangerous to even a strong union like ours. It is our job to prepare you to face these dangers. As future officers you will lead others to face these dangers and the great unknown, to protect Union citizens and interests and uphold the law."

<p lang="en-US">The lights came on and the holo images faded away.

<p lang="en-US">After his lecture we learned to recite the Fleet song and the Galactic Anthem.

<p lang="en-US">There was a short lunch break and then instructions continued. Another being taught us about rank insignia and the various branches of the Union Military, a Non Corp officer looking exactly like the one sitting next to me, except his Uniform was black and after he had explained to us how to read Rank insignia I knew he was a Lieutenant." Our Union's executive branch is in charge of the Union Military. There is the Union Fleet, the branch you are now serving. We are the ones with the space ships and the black uniforms. The United Stars Marine Corps is an independent branch but closely associated with us. They do the planetary assaults, provide internal security to the Union and can be found wherever the Navy needs guards. The Union Army is in charge of defending planets with planetary defense forts. It is the Army that provides the security and defense of Pluribus Unum. Part of the Army is the PSI Corps, a special task force using Psionics. And finally a completely separate branch is the SCI-Corps, it answers to the Science Council of our Government and is in charge of the Explorer Fleet and the Medical Branch and all government research. We work closely together with all branches and you will often find Fleet personnel aboard Exploration and Science Vessels. Medical and science personnel aboard our vessels are technically Sci-Corps even though we train Science and Med officers' right here at the Academy."

<p lang="en-US">The Non Corp had us again sing the Anthem and repeat the Space Navy Song. After that he dismissed us for dinner.

GalNet Entry: Saran

The Saran are one of the founding civilizations of the United Stars of the Galaxy. Sarans are human and share much DNA similarities with Terrans. Initially it was believed that Terra was a lost Saran Colony, but research has dismissed this possibility and now the general consent is that Sarans and Terrans were seeded somehow by an ancient civilization.

Sarans and Terrans share a long history together. The first Saran visitors to Earth arrived during the time the ancient Egyptians rose to be a dominant early pre industrial civilization. Due to war and other factors neither the Saran nor the Terrans have detailed records of those first meetings, nor is it clear what cultural elements of the Egyptians and the Sarans originated on Earth or Saran side. However the Saran civilization appears to Terrans very much like the Ancient Egyptians. The Saran still worship gods like Ra, Seth, Toth, Isis and Osiris. The Saran practice mummification to this day and have a ruling society of Pharaohs and priests. Over the last 12,000 years the Sarans are ruled by a Dynasty of Queens and have a strong matriarchal ruling society. This led to a revolution about 5000 years ago and 200 Saran Colonies split and formed the Pan Saran Empire. The Saran and the Pan Saran fought each other in a long and bitter war until the Ascent of Earth. Both Saran and Pan Saran considered Earth a friend and ally and this lead to the cessation of hostilitiesand the formation of the Union. It was the Sarans who gave Earth the Technology to reach the stars in 2089.

The Saran Empire has and is a strong and mighty empire with thousands of star systems and is heavily involved in all aspects of the Union.

To this day ruled by the Female Queen Dynasty, the Saran queens have absolute power and are the sole law giving entity within the Saran Society. (All Sarans accept Union Law)

One of the most magnificent planets in the Union is Saran. A rich garden world with monuments and temples of explicit beauty and majesty.

The secret Order of the Queen of Sheba is an ancient and very secretive society of Earthers and Sarans looking back to the first Saran / Terran contact and it is said they know the entire story.

Interlude: Princess Elfiatra

<p lang="en-US">"Sekhet Nefertiti Elfiatra the Precious, Princess to the Saran Empire, second daughter to her Majesty the Queen Cleotrix the second. Commandrix of the Saran Honor Legion, Holder of the sacred ankh. High priestess of Ra" The bald headed man with the strong mascara around his eyes said, adjusting his Kalima-Cat fur robe as he always did when he was annoyed. "These are your titles, young Princess and you better start acting like it!"

<p lang="en-US">The beautiful black haired girl lounging on the upholstered couch in an almost completely transparent white dress extended one of her lissome tanned arms and with her long fingers carefully selected one of the honey glazed orange slices and nibbles a tiny corner of the fruit slice then threw the rest towards the man." Must you be so boring Amun? I know who I am and Sekhet means all powerful, does it not? I fancy your head on a platter might amuse me for a little longer than your endless lectures."

<p lang="en-US">He sighed."Yes your grace that is what it means and you can indeed order the guards to cut my head. It would of course anger your mother and she would punish you and give you yet another instructor."

<p lang="en-US">"You still won't be around to see my punishment, Amun. I had enough instructions for today. I desire a bath and then some leisure time in the garden. This is not up for discussion either, now leave!"

<p lang="en-US">Amun threw his hands in the air and left.

<p lang="en-US">She waited till he was gone and then waved at one of her hand maidens. "Quick, tell me if he is truly gone!"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes your highness he has left."

<p lang="en-US">She actually felt sorry for the head eunuch, who really tried hard to make a proper princess of the realm out of her, but she had other plans for her life.

She rushed over to her personal Auto Dresser and said. "Terran Civilian Female, clothing sequence two."

<p lang="en-US">The machine removed the frivolous dress and her jewelry and replaced it with a pair of black skin tight leather pants, which were so en vogue on Terra right now and a screaming hot pink T-shirt with the logo and image of Mystery child, the teen mega star. She was hiding her beautiful helmet like page cut under a wild red curled wig and like every Terran she had to have sun glasses. The one she chose where huge, hiding much of her pretty face.

<p lang="en-US">She knew almost every secret passage in this 15,000 year old monster of a Palace and after opening a secret door in a seemingly solid column she disappeared, leaving her poor hand maiden behind, dressed as the Princess.

<p lang="en-US">The labyrinth of passages and corridors finally led her to a little used garden and from there it was just a few hundred meters to a small gate that led out into the City.

<p lang="en-US">She had to leave. Her mother would never approve of her choice and she certainly did not want to head another royal reception or witness an execution or a public flogging. As the second daughter she was not directly in line for the Throne and she thanked the Gods for this. Her sister would make a great queen, in maybe a hundred years from now when Mother finally died or stepped down. As the second daughter she was doomed to lead a sheltered and boring life, perhaps choosing two or three husbands, having kids and attend any state function not important enough for the Queen or the first princess to be present but important enough for one member of the royal family to be present.

<p lang="en-US">That was her fate and that was what Amun tried to prepare her for.

<p lang="en-US">She almost made it, but then a cloaked person blocked her way through the gate and she hissed." Step aside, at once!"

<p lang="en-US">The person in the hooded cloak said." Elfi, Elfi what are you doing and where are you going?"

<p lang="en-US">There was only one person who addressed her this way and all color left her face."Mother?"

<p lang="en-US">A light came on above the gate and the person removed the cloak and it was the Queen herself. Only now did she notice the almost invisible completely black dressed shadowy shapes of the queen's personal guard, the mysterious women of the ancient order of Seth's shadow. Warriors dedicated to the safety of the Queen for almost 12,000 years.

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Elfi! Do you think you could book a Space bus passage and sneak out without me knowing? Your safety is as important as mine and the Shadows have told me everything."

<p lang="en-US">The princess felt angry and helpless and knew she had lost. She would be punished and tomorrow she would once again listen to Amun and then attend some state function.

<p lang="en-US">"Alright, what is my punishment?"

<p lang="en-US">"I want you to tell me right here what this is all about? Forget that I am the queen and tell me as your mother. I am the queen but I do love you and I want to know why my daughter, dressed up like a Terran prostitute buys a Space Bus ticket and sneaks out at night fall."

<p lang="en-US">Elfi removed her wig and the sunglasses."Alright I tell you, not that it will make a difference. You haven't listened to me in ages."

<p lang="en-US">"I am listening now!"

<p lang="en-US">"I do not want to be a princess. Cleo my sister is your oldest and there are three more after me for all the state functions and to guarantee the dynasty. I want to follow my dreams."

<p lang="en-US">"What dreams could you have that you could not pursue as Princess of the realm? Your wishes are law if I make it so!'

<p lang="en-US">"I want to prove that I don't need laws to fulfill my wishes, mother. I am signing up for the Union academy and I want to be a face among many, raise to challenges and problems out of my own merit not due to rank and high birth. I am not ashamed being your daughter or a princess but I want to proof to myself that I can do things with my own hands, with my own mind."

<p lang="en-US">"The shadows have told me about your Virtu Choices and the calls to the Recruiting Office. I needed to hear it from you, Elfi. Have you any idea what awaits you? Do you know the Shadows cannot protect you there and you could be in danger every day?"

<p lang="en-US">"That is the point mother. I don't know what awaits me. The shadows do not need to protect me. I want to do that myself and as officer in the Union Fleet I am doing my share to protect you and them and Sares and the realm and everything. I am not running away to join the circus, mother."

<p lang="en-US">The queen nodded."It seems the spirit of your Great grandmother has resurfaced in you. She just had to marry that Terran marine and join the Fleet. Go then my daughter, but don't go like this without hugging and kissing your mother who will most likely get much gray hair hoping you are safe."

<p lang="en-US">Elfi could not believe it at first then she hugged her mother and said."I will call as often as I can. "

<p lang="en-US">"Just don't volunteer for the Marines again, my daughter!"

<p lang="en-US">"I tried."

<p lang="en-US">"I know."

<p lang="en-US">"They said I would have the talents for a good communications officer."

<p lang="en-US">"That doesn't sound so dangerous."

<p lang="en-US">"It won't be Mother!"

<p lang="en-US">"I suppose you don't want me to have the Royal Ark take you to your Academy, right?"

<p lang="en-US">"No I really would like to travel incognito and on a space bus and be treated as any other cadet."

Interlude: Richard Stahl

<p lang="en-US">Richard only wore swimming trunks and a Hawaii shirt and relaxed in a wooden chair underneath a colorful umbrella and held glass in his hand. The twin suns of Para Para shone warmly on the powdery white sand of Heaven's Shore. Tourists bathing in the azure blue lagoon or playing in the sand did not pay any attention to him. No one here really knew who he was. The Devi was still in dock on Arsenal IV and he actually started to enjoy his vacation. It was the first he had taken in at least twenty years. At first he didn't think he was the sun bathing, beach sitting type but he had taken Harris advice and tried it and he had to admit it grew on him.

<p lang="en-US">A shadow fell on him that wasn't from the umbrella. At first he thought it was one of the Hotels stewards perhaps telling him it was time for dinner or asking him if he needed another drink. He blinked turned and a beautiful woman stood there. He knew the tall one with the silver hair who smiled at him from beneath large sun glasses.

<p lang="en-US">Alyica laughed."You are the only person in the Universe who has his beer served with a cocktail umbrella."

<p lang="en-US">Richard touched the controls of the chair and put in an upright position. Alyica wore a tight fitting black bathing suit and he remembered that he was, despite his immortality and great age still a man."Well it's what they do with all the drinks here. I had a hard time telling them I do not want any mix drinks with fruits. It took seven beers before I got one without any fruits sticking on the glass!"

<p lang="en-US">Then he got up, remembering his manners and said."What gives me the honor of your visit? "

<p lang="en-US">A robot brought another chair and Alyica said." It is nice to see you take it easy for a chance. I am here on vacation as well, more or less and I wanted to talk to you so I thought this is as good as any place without disturbing your vacation too much."

<p lang="en-US">"I actually enjoy it, can you believe that? This is a wonderful world and until you showed up I started to relax." He sat back down.

<p lang="en-US">Alyica sat down as well, crossed her legs and leaned back." Yes it is, I come to Para Para quite often and I must say you are very handsome for an old geezer of 3000 years. There are quite a few ladies on this beach who would love to get to know you better."

<p lang="en-US">"It doesn't take super Psionics like yours to guess what the guys over there think about you!" he smirked back."So why are you here? Don't tell me you just happened to be in the neighborhood. Is it official business?"

<p lang="en-US">The PSI corps General shook her head." No it is not official business and I really was just in the neighborhood." She leaned forward to look at him."It took you about a thousand years to trust me and not call me the wicked witch of the Coven, even though you are the only man in the Universe I respect."

<p lang="en-US">The Immortal General actually blushed a little." Well it isn't easy for a simple Pre Astro Marine to accept the existence of magic and witches."

<p lang="en-US">"It isn't magic, Richard and you know that and there is nothing simple about you. My offer still stands and I take you to Coven and initiate you."

<p lang="en-US">"I thought of Psionics as magic, Aly for the longest time. When I grew up my world didn't believe in life on other planets and I love you Aly but I am not going to that creepy place of yours and chant and dance around cauldrons. I managed all these years without Psionics and magic and I think I can manage for the rest of my life."

<p lang="en-US">Alyica sighed."It isn't magic. It is a higher, a different form of Psionics. We are manipulating Trans dimensional energies. It's basically what Isah Drives, Trans Dim Shields and Translocator Cannons do. You don't call that magic."

<p lang="en-US">Richard put his hand on hers for a moment."Sweetie to me it's magic when a girl that isn't a girl or human for that matter can do the things you do."

<p lang="en-US">"Well you aren't exactly human anymore either and I might not fit the exact description of human or girl, but I am and always was all female and I am still dreaming that you might one day change your mind and ask me the question. Who knows I might even say yes!"

<p lang="en-US">"I am too old to start a family and I am married to my Career and the Devi." He looked dreamingly across the water." I really like you and you know that, but I am old fashioned and I would want to wear the pants in the house and not be afraid the woman turns me into a frog or something."

<p lang="en-US">She took his retracting hand and put it back on hers."You know I would not want it any other way, than you being in charge. You are an immortal and my life span is not measured in years or decades either. I take my position as General of the PSI corps as serious as you do yours. However there is no Career left for both of us. You could theoretically become Admiral of the Fleet, but that would not be you and old Mc Elligott is a way better administrator than you." She paused for a moment and then said." There are storm clouds on the horizon and neither of us can consider retirement just yet."

<p lang="en-US">His face grew harder and he said." This is the real reason you came, isn't it? There is something going on? "

<p lang="en-US">"It is not imminent or clear to me at this point, but the Rule has been broken."

<p lang="en-US">"Alyica, for the last millennia you are trying to tell me about these mystical things. Despite all my Psionic shielding I know you can read my mind. You know I do not understand these things and I don't like to believe in predictions and predetermined events in the future."

<p lang="en-US">"Richard I never read your mind unless you would ask me, like during that night in the Alps at your old house. I can't predict the future as it is fluid and shaped by our actions and decisions in the now, but there are certain mile stones on the road of time, that mark cosmic events that will happen. This, our Universe is only one of many. This time is only one of many time streams. Every time you go into Quasi Space you remove yourself from this Universe and this time. Due to the Isah field you are taking your own time with you but you are completely gone from this reality.

"I know you accept physical laws as a given. All these multi verses, these different time streams and Dimensions can only exist because all follows physical mathematical laws. Some of them are simply not discovered or understood by humans and some are not understood or discovered by anyone, but they still exist. "

<p lang="en-US">"Yes I am learning that all my life. I thought nothing could move faster than light, yet I made a career out of traveling all across this Galaxy. I never believed someone could read my mind, move objects with the force of will or live 3000 years, but I must believe that I can do something about it, that what we do has a purpose."

<p lang="en-US">"I am sure it has or the Guardian would not have picked you to be the warrior. I am not human as you so meanly pointed out, and I can feel and sense things and conditions., but I don't know what the Rule is, but it has to do with the Y'All and those who sent them. The Coven says that the Y'All have been sent to search for something and they haven't found it the last times they were here. They have been called again and something or someone is coming to search again."

<p lang="en-US">Stahl's hand cramped around the arm rest," It cost us a lot of lives and sorrow the last time they came. How long do you think we have?"

<p lang="en-US">She shrugged." I can't say, but it took the Y'All about 50 years to respond to the last call. So I think we have about that much time."

<p lang="en-US">"Do you know who keeps calling them and how? "

<p lang="en-US">"Yes this is why I actually came by the way. The First among the Saresii send us an Intelligence report about the Grand Wizards making that call. Cherubim had the TSI follow up on this and we got informed that the Grand Wizard of the Kermac just returned from a long journey claiming they had made the Call. Currently we don't know how the Call is made, or where. The Grand Wizard has executed everyone that was with him on that journey including two fellow wizards."

<p lang="en-US">"I should have known and kept going. We would fight the Kermac and the Nul now but that is a known enemy and not the Y'All or something worse and unknown."

<p lang="en-US">"This time you are not alone. It seems the Narth know something is coming, and that is why they are more active and the Hidden Coven is considering revealing itself and asking for membership. Till now you are still the only one knowing about us."

<p lang="en-US">"I would still be in exile and the Union a forgotten memory if it wasn't for you showing me where to find the Devastator and how to make her accept me."

<p lang="en-US">"If it wasn't for you Richard, I still be the horrible monster you said I was and not the woman I am now. You don't believe in predestination but I think some force meant that we meet each other and learning about the meaning of love, Richard made it all worthwhile!"

<p lang="en-US">He got up." I would love to know what I have to do to prepare ourselves, but guess I do it as always and play by ear. Now it is my turn to predict something. I see a pretty silver haired monster having dinner with an Old Geezer and perhaps even a dance after that?"

<p lang="en-US">"If it takes bad news for you to invite me to dinner and a dance, old Geezer, I find bad news every day!"

<p lang="en-US">..