Piece GC 10

piece GC 10

The End of Sin 4

Interlude: Aboard the Red Dragon

On the landing field of the desolate spaceport of Sin 4 and not too far from the heavily modified Kartharian Trader, known as the Silver Streak, sat the Red Dragon. Inside the stolen Union prototype and in its command deck conference room sat the former Union admiral who now bore the same name as his ship and five other pirate captains.

Red Dragon had his chair swiveled towards the viewport and watches as the well known slave merchant ship, the Minerva climbed into the sky.

“That explains why she bought every slave there was on the market. She is doing business with Sposhtrah.”

“Making a killing doing it.” Said a strong looking Oghar sitting to the right of the Red Dragon, also staring out the window.

Captain Sodex of the Merchant’s Sorrow sitting across the table, curled his chaps in disgust. He was a Jooltar and growled.”This is the dirtiest business of them all. I stay away from it, no matter the profit. One of these days the Union will disregard all treaties and start hunting slavers and those are involved in this business. One more colony raid report with Union citizens captured for slaves and their Assembly will vote to end it.”

The former Admiral, had been a Union citizen for most of his life actually nodded. “There is not much more that riles them. However as soon as our endeavour bears fruit, they will have other problems.”

He turned back to face the table again.

Besides Sodex and the Oghar known as Captain Meateater there were Captain Ivok of the Bloody Mary, a humanoid quite possibly of Human Terran descent and a former Union citizen as well. Red Dragon suspected him to be a member of the Worm. On the left to Red Dragon a yellowish skinned Wartook with sickle shaped oiled hair, long pig like snout and tusks even bigger than those of the Oghar, he was only known as the Cruel One and his ship was the ugly, but powerful Scarlet Tormentor. He liked to spill the blood of others. A reputation he liked to advertise by vicious acts of violence.

The biggest being at the table was Crimson Curse, another member of the Oghar species. He was was well groomed and his outfit and weapons were well maintained and clean. He was pirate longer than any of the others and Red Dragon did not think he would join them, but if he would his experience and knowledge of the Coreward sector would be of tremendous help.

The last one was Shuhputz Brathering, a Puup. This was a Kermac Vassal species. While the Puup had virtually no contact to the Union, as they originated from a planet all across the Galactic Council sphere of influence, deep in the Spinward sector. But Shuputz was a known pirate in Freespace and some said he looked like the nightmare version of a Teddy bear, furry big head, four eyes and a big maw full of teeth. It was known he liked human flesh especially fresh and raw.

His ship the Akulook was perhaps the most advanced besides the Red Dragon’s ship of Union origin. It was the best armed for certain as it was a  Kermac Destroyer, a real warship and not an armed and modified civilian ship.

Red Dragon folded his hands before him." So what do you say? Are you with me?"

Shuputz spoke first." I am with you. I am no Celtest expert but the Evidence looks convincing to me and if only half of it comes true, we will be unstoppable with Celtest equipment or at least very rich. It is a long trip however and I need to get me a NuGas refinery and engine spare parts and hat will take a little while "

Meateater was next." I have been with Red for some time now. He is a damn cutthroat but if he says something it usually is so. I never faired wrong, but I doubt my Intruder will make the entire trip unless I get me a new ship or make some serious repairs to mine complete with brand new thruster pods."

Crimson got up.

"That's a tad too far for me. I stick to space I know. Count me out. I rather be less rich and less powerful and alive, than spend almost two years on a what if scenario."

Red Dragon made a gesture to the door.

"No one is forcing you, but don't come back and want a share. When we meet again we meet as enemies."

Crimson shrugged. "I managed so far and if we meet as enemies, so be it. "

Without further ado he left."

It was now Ivok's turn." I got to check with my business associates but I am certain I will come along. Celtest Equipment is always of great interest to me."

"Go and call the Worm. I know who you are dealing with, but don't hesitate to long. I will not wait or offer it again."

The Red Dragon leaned forward." Now my Oghar friend. You need a new ship. It happens there is a Karthanian Armed Merchant not far from here. Has oversized ISAH thrusters and unlike the rest of the ship they look new. Not to mention the finest Nul weaponry."

Meateater played with the gold tipped ends of his tusks."I thought you contemplated to offer her the same thing as you offered us?"

"Maybe I do, but I rather have you than her. I know you I don't know a thing about her."

"She got teeth. She leveled those DE towers and I am sure it was her who blew the well shielded Island to bits. If it was her she might have the Loki torpedoes and what else the Duke supposed to have."

Ivok added."She is rich too. She dealt with the Minerva and bought lots of stuff at the Market. Paid with Polos and Iridi Chips. Her crew is well armed and nothing looks cheap.”

“Rumors have it, she bought lots of scrap, the kind Dai love to buy. There is a Dai in her crew, maybe not a renegade at all. If you have a connection to these vicious devils, you can make a hefty profit. They don’t haggle and they are rich.”

Sodex gestured to the window. “I bet she made a pretty profit with that old Slave trader."

Red Dragon grinned. "All the better for us. I got this Celtest suit and once inside her ship there is nothing that will stop me."

--””--

I took the call in our Den and the Red Dragon looked at me after the connection was made and the field screen was activated.

"I was wondering if you would be interested in meeting a few colleagues of ours, perhaps over some food and drink so we can discuss a very profitable little excursion. You see the associate I am waiting for is a little delayed and won't be here for a while. Since there is no sense in wasting too much time on this boring dirt ball, we thought we might invite you to a very promising little hunt. Of course such things are better discussed in person and since you are the new kid on the block so to speak, even if you might be around for half a millennium as some rumors claim. it was suggested that you do us the honors."

I glanced at my gloved fingers and said.

"I too have some unfinished business here on Sin 4, but it could wait a little longer. I am never opposed to hear about something that could improve my bottom line. I am not opposed to such a meeting."

He sounded pleased. "Maybe there is a future with us doing business together, Black Velvet. So do you say, Five hour at your ship, or are you too ashamed to have guests?"

"My Silver Streak might not be able to provide you with all the creature comforts you are accustomed to, but I think we should be able to scare up some food and drink to entertain our guests. So I expect you and your associates at the mentioned time?"

"We will be there and I will bring some wine."

Har-Hi stood next to me as usual and as the transmission ended he said:

"So he wants to come over and discuss business and bring along a few friends. Why do I get the feeling he isn't coming for a friendly barter at all?"

Narth shrugged his shoulders and said:

"If he is a former Admiral or not I can't say, but his psionic shielding is most certainly finest Union technology, the kind Command Officers get. I am not certain I could break it, but if I try he would notice, no doubt."

"Let us go slowly. If he suspects a Psionic attack he might have a failsafe that deletes the information he has, or he might suspect us to be more than just pirates. Since his Seenian equipment is genuine there is no reason to doubt he knows the location of a Seenian depot. Finding and securing it for the Union is vital. If he found it, someone else could. Seenian technology in the hands of the Kermac, the Shiss or anyone else would be bad indeed."

Har-Hi propped his hands on our massive table and said:

"The Admiral was quite clear; we need to find his source of Seenian equipment and even his arrest and neutralization is secondary to that. So our goal should be to gain his trust and play along for awhile. Maybe we can find out where the Sinister Alliance has its headquarters as a bonus to all this, but if he wears a Seenian Battle suit what would keep him from running amok inside our ship?"

Cateria pointed at a PDD she was holding and said:

"The scans you made inside that container confirm that he is indeed wearing a Seenian Battle suit, but it is certainly not fully activated. I am convinced it is damaged, because it is a Command Issue and it would otherwise never accept a Non Seenian."

I asked. "We are assuming he is Admiral Swybar, but McElligott said that this is not entirely certain. Could we not perhaps be dealing with a genuine member of your species? Maybe you are not the only one who survived all this time in suspended animation."

She said:

"That would certainly explain how they managed to install Seenian shields and the ZP Cannon. Since I exist it is not completely out of the question. If we can obtain some genetic material, I can find out of course."

Mehedi who was sitting on the table as well, looking quite regal wearing an orange colored turban to his uniform.”It is doubtful, a genuine Seenian would have more than just a few pieces of this technology. His overall behavior and actions I analyzed, suggests that he is indeed the former Admiral. There is clearly a pattern of hate and revenge motivated actions and statements he made suggesting that. Also his gait, gesture pattern and way of expressing himself matches the recordings I obtained from said former Admiral.”

“His gait?” I asked

“Yes Captain, masks and disguises are not very effective tools to hide someone's true identity, especially if there are recordings and samples of the unmasked person on file. Every being that uses legs or similar appendixes developes a very distinctive individual movement pattern that is as individual as one's brainwave pattern.”

I touched my mask lying on the table. “ So you say this method you guys developed makes masks and disguises obsolete?”

“The method was developed on Earth long before the Ascent and was called biometric analysis. It was seemed obsolete and was forgotten by most, with the ability to compare brainwave patterns as a way to identify a person.” He smiled. “TSI however has never forgotten it and it became a very intensive field of research at PSICOM for a very long time. Including the analysis of biometrics of all known species.”

“This is fascinating.”

Har-Hi was also intrigued.”You can do this for every being?”

“Within limits yes. Narth for example all move exactly alike, have the same height, form and voice. However I can distinguish our Mr.Narth from other Narth, as he has developed his own way of moving and uses a different speech and expression pattern than any other Narth we observed. However in your case, Captain it would be impossible to match you with any biometric patterns of your previous identity. Your female identity has changed your gait and way of moving. Only someone with intimate knowledge of you would recognize that your approach to situations and expressions have changed little.”

She laughed. “That is quite true,Captain. This field of Biometrics intrigues me and I will make it a point to read up on it.”

His handsome dark brown face fell. “And making me obsolete Lt. Schwartz. I have no doubt you will become best PSICOM specialist. However I would be honored to instruct you.”

I looked at him.”Mr. Mehedi no one in this crew will ever become obsolete, while I have something to say about that. You impressed me deeply with your abilities, but it always has been a doctrine of mine to crosstrain as much as possible, so we all learn and benefit from each other. I am going to make you part of the bridge crew if you like that and you too will rotate through the departments and hold the Conn when it is your turn. I too want to learn from you, not that I ever hope to understand even ten percent of it, it is a very valuable skill to have.”

His face lit up and he revealed a set of perfect white teeth.”That always has been a dream of mine. Will you let me learn Helm, too?”

Shaka sitting next to him gave me a look, I nodded with a smile and our Zulu prince said.”Report to me tomorrow, we get you steer the ship in no time.”

After this exchange I steered the conversation back to the original subject.”No matter who he is under that disguise. He does wear that suit and I remember how hard it was to stop Cateria. So Har Hi's question becomes even more valid. We had a hard time stopping you with ship sized weapons. What can we do to if he attacks?"

Cateria answered. "I wasn't even wearing a command battle suit like he seems to have,  just a standard model, but ever since I came aboard, Circuit and I are working on a few ideas. Not that we expected to run into a pirate with Seenian tech but we managed to incorporate some Seenian ideas into his latest generation of Battle Nanites. Besides this is not a Barracuda, but the Tigershark.”

As usual when we sat in the Pirate's Den there were other Crewmembers present and the Garbini Engineer turned Medtech raised one of his tentacles.

"Captain?"

I turned to look at the Garbini and said:

"Yes, Specialist?"

"My roommate is Shail, Ma'am. Even though he is pursuing an Engineering career now, he is still Shail and there aren't any better poison experts in the Galaxy. Suits protect only from the outside and the Shail have poisons that defy our best Auto Docs."

I grinned.

"What a splendid idea. Let us prepare for that dinner and make it a memorable occasion..."

Sobody rubbed his small hands.

"Can I be in charge of that, Captain?"

To him I said: "It would not be memorable if you didn't plan it. So of course you are in charge."

--¨¨--

It was eight in the evening when the Red Dragon, four of his officers, and three Pirate Captains arrived in a Shiss Landing tank. I had them enter over an extended Ramp into the Pirate's Den, so they would not see the rest of the ship or ride the IST

The Golden, his rodent shadow and my Elly Chef went all out to provide an impressive meal.

From where the massive open grill came from, I had no idea, but I was instantly reminded of Uncle Hogun and I almost expected him to be there. The grill had a shimmering force field chimney and most of the smoke was funneled away into the ship's atmospheric recycling systems, but the savory smell of freshly seared meat was spreading all over the former Hangar bay. I was not sure what kind of animal was slowly turning on the spit but it was huge. I was assured it was safe for humans to eat.

As the eight men stepped through the hangar door they stopped in their tracks. One of them was an Oghar Captain and he could not take his eyes of the stacks of boxes overflowing with Polo Coins, the stacked Polo Cubes in the back and the several meter tall pile of Iridium ingots right next to it that not even I had noticed before.

Our eclectic collection of strange art and curiosities had grown as well, prominent displayed a charred piece of armor plate with the words Mighty Nine stenciled on it.

The gothic shaped braziers were lit and flickered with dark red flames.

The immense chandelier above our big table provided a warm light that made  the polished precious metals glow and sparkle.

Our big round table was laid out with the finest china, crystal drink ware, bowls and plates of massive gold and platinum grouped around a three tiered center piece overflowing with fruits and fresh vegetables. It too was made of platinum and gold and was big enough to serve an entire family of starving Saturnians.

I was wearing a black velvet body hugging gown and a matching eye mask with a wispy veil. I greeted them saying.

"Welcome to the Silver Streak. Have a seat, eat, drink and be merry. We do not have guests all that often but according to time honored traditions, enemies and friends alike shall find peace and hospitality while at my table."

The Red Dragon who was wearing the same red outfit and that he had worn before said:

"One should never judge the book by its cover. One would never suspect to see such splendor inside what appears to be such a rust bucket from the outside."

I spread my gloved arms and said. "There might be some rust here and there, but the Silver Streak has served me well and I would not exchange it even for the formidable Red Dragon you command."

He introduced his associates and bumped the Oghar next to him, who finally managed to take his eyes of the Polonium chests and looked at me.

"This big fellow goes by the name of Captain Meateater and he commands the Intruder, the silent Togar to my right is Captain Carrhrh of the Celestial Nightmare. The third Captain, here is a member of the Puup. He has a solid reputation as Privateer all over this region of space. To introduce him as gentleman is pushing the envelope of course, but he does go by the name of Captain Brathering of the Uhuin."

He pointed to the Jooltar.”This is Captain Sodex. You should have heard of him.

The Warthok probably forgot his real name, but they call him the Cruel One, a reputation well earned I assure you”

The Red Dragon came to the last. “One of my most recent acquaintances, Captain Ivok.”

The Oghar grunted. "This is a fine treasure you got there. I also noticed your Nul weaponry. Nothing to be trifled with."

I shrugged. "I find it necessary to have certain devices that reinforce my arguments. Such arguments do occur quite regularly in this kind of business as you surely know."

He grunted something else I did not understand  and they all sat down. Food was served and I noticed that the red Dragon only ate after I did and he selected the same food choices. His mask I noticed  now allowed him to eat without the need to take it off. The Oghar and the rest however ate like starving Tyrannos.

The conversation during the main course was just small talk, but as the Elly served dessert and fine liquors I leaned back and said. "Maybe it is time you come to the real reason you have invited yourself. I am eager to get some vacuum under my keel and leave dirt side soon.

Red Dragon held up the glass he was using and looked at the golden liquid.

"You certainly know how to treat your guests. This is the finest Blue Blood Chardonnay I have tasted in ages. If I am not mistaken it is from the Sapphire Winery that supplies the Court of the Thauran Emperor  itself.

I truly appreciate your hospitality and it almost pains me to do what I have to do next. You see my associate Captain Meateater has a ship that isn't up to par and barely made it to Sin 4. Suitable ships are rare to come by and since he likes the Silver Streak I think it will serve him well."

He put the glass down. "Be a good girl and give him all the command codes now and without any fuss, I might even let you live and offer you a nice bedroom aboard my ship so you can serve me when I have the need for female attention."

At his words the Pirate Captains pulled their weapons and pointed them at me. The Red Dragon said: "Now before you get all upset and shooting starts. Let me tell you that I am wearing the Celtest Battle suit and there is nothing you can do that will stop me to do whatever I please. Now get started, the Command codes now or I start killing every one of your crew and rape you until I have what I need.”

He looked around and added “It looks like there are enough treasures to buy a brand new ship with all the trimmings even if you die before I have the codes."

I had let him speak, dabbing my mouth with measured moves with a napkin under the veil of my mask and said:

"You know dear Dragon, I did not come this far to trust anyone and I would not have invited you inside my ship without taking some precautions. If you would pay real attention and look to your side you will notice a Shail. Now I am not sure if you are aware of the Shail reputation and their particular skill and knowledge of very complex poisons, but you all swallowed enough quite lethal Shail bio toxins to kill half of Sin 4. As the glasses were laced with it, you did too. The final outcome is of course lethal but it will take a little time to take full effect. I think you might feel the first effects already, the only antidote is well hidden and only I know where."

Captain Meateater grabbed his throat with his left while he pointed his big Flamer gun directly at me.

"The Antidote now or you die!"

"It is very unwise to threaten the only person with the antidote. I might just decide to die before I give in on your demands, so I suggest you press that trigger."

He actually did, but nothing happened. His weapon apparently inactive.

Now my friends pulled their weapons. Krabbel zipped from the ceiling with eight heavy old style TKUs in each of his legs. Hans, the Gray Nul and TheOther came from behind the curtains, their massive weapons pointed at the now frightened looking pirates. Marines disguised as Pirates completed the half circle around me and Har-Hi pulled both his swords with a slow metallic sound that was as threatening as it looked.

Red Dragon pointed his finger at me and screamed: "There is enough energy in my finger blaster to render you all to ashes, while my shields will protect me from everything you have.

But his hand turned, quite obviously against his will and he stared at his own finger.

I was the only one still sitting and I poured myself a cup of coffee and carefully spooned some sugar in it. "The weapons of your associates have been rendered inoperative. I used some Black Velvet magic if you wil. And the weapon in your finger would need to go through your skull first before it can harm anyone else."

He groaned. "You think psionic tricks will save you? My shields will take care of that."

Shea got up holding her sword and sliced his uniform open and cut away the Seenian weapon belt from his waist. Her wondrous blade sliced right through the supposedly indestructible material of his suit.

I sipped at my coffee and said: "I wonder why you are not doing just that!"

Brathering groaned. "Do something; you said your suit is unstoppable!"

Red Dragon yelped in pain as his own finger started to poke him in his right eye.

I said "What a cruel fate, poked to death by your own finger. Now I wonder if that is the death the ruler of the Galaxy thought he would suffer?"

His finger now poked his nose and he yelped: "Cut that out! It was all just a joke, a test of course. I wasn't serious."

I got up walked slowly around the big table and watched him being poked again, this time in the other eye. Shea had sliced almost half of his suit of his body and the blade that had no trouble cutting through the supposedly indestructible Seenian material was now only a fraction of a hairs width away from his throat.

I got close to him and said: "I don't buy lies my dear Dragon. Now I could easily take your lives and your ships and whatever else I please. Your associates are already turning into nice shades of green, a wonderful side effect of the poison. I am certain you don't feel so fresh either as your wine glass contained the same poison.”

I turned to walk away but then faced him again. “Oh wait, you wanted to rape me. I think I know a better place for that finger!"

His hand now twisting in a painful manner as his arm lowered towards his behind. His suit was in tatters, sliced in ribbons by Shea.

Cateria who had joined us moments ago, picked up a piece of the suit from the floor. “Looks like the command module. I am certain his suit is now completely inoperative.”

He groaned as his finger approached a rather unsavory region of his body. and said with pain but little conviction in his voice:

"You would not dare!"

I pointed at his groin and Shea's blade followed my gesture and I said:

"Do you really think I would not dare to cut you into ribbons and sell your carcass to the Skaakh kitchens? But I'll tell you what, I'll let you go. You tire me. You may return in one hour with one million in Polo Full weights for each of you. I will then give you the Anti-dote. If you decide not to do it, that is your choice and your funeral."

Hans, TheOther and the Gray Nul grabbed the helpless Pirates and simply threw them out the main door. They landed hard on the ramp and limped down the rest scrambling to their waiting Landing tank but they never reached it, their tank was lifted into the air and forcefully slammed into the ground, a dozen times till it was a twisted smoking pile of metal. Whoever was inside had no chance.

I turned to Narth.

"Seeing your telekinetic abilities turning a seventy ton tank into scarp was actually quite scary."

Narth said:

"That wasn't me."

He pointed at the young girl with the big eyes stepping from behind him.

She has been awake since this morning and I promised her she could help."

I looked at her and said:

"That was a great job Alice."

She lost her sad expression for a moment as a smile hushed over her thin lips.

I knelt down.

"Is there anything that would cheer you up more permanently? And should you not went along with your father. I am surprised you are still here."

She shook her head.

Cateria said.”She is under Narth’s care and I am certain there is no better help for her, as she trusts him.”

The girl said. "No Captain Olafson. I am content right here. My dad is safe at home and can help our friends the Stik and Narth is a very good teacher. He made the headache go away and knows how I can use the invisible hands without hurting myself. I am very glad to be here and will help when I can."

I sighed. “Now we running a nursery on top of it all, but as soon as you are well enough and we have our next contact, you can go and join your father. The Union has great specialists too.”

She nodded.

"So it was you poking the guy in the eyes? It was a bit out of character for Narth I must admit."

She nodded and smiled a moment longer.

"I watched him from behind the curtain. He wasn't very nice."

Narth looked at me with his glowing eyes.

"I must admit I liked the idea and helped a bit."

I rolled my eyes. "I am not sure this Universe is ready for a Narth with a mischievous streak"

Then we watched our guests run across the landing field to their ships.

I mused aloud. "I wonder if we revealed too many of our aces or if Mehdi's psycho analysis is correct and they do come back and offer us a spot in that expedition.

Circuit appeared in the hangar door and said:

"If not, they all taking a load of Nanites into their ships. We should be able to hack into their systems and get that info without chasing them half across the Galaxy."

The cold night wind brushed over my naked shoulders and, while I always liked the cold, I actually wished for a jacket or something and said:

"Your new Nanites?"

He nodded and said: "Yes the ones I based on Cateria's designs I think in eight to ten months I might be able to replicate them to be just as good as the Seenian ones."

Cateria, her hands on the shoulders of the girl, said: "In some aspects they are already as good. We can be glad he was not able to activate his suit fully or even know of its capabilities. He did have a full Casern with him."

I turned to look at her and said:

"Something bad, right?"

She frowned and responded.

"Very bad, a subspace pocket with 100 Seenian Battle droids."

"Where is it now?"

"Safely away with Narth, also in some sort of Subspace pocket he has under his shroud. Until we can get the proper codes, it is suicide to open it."

I pointed in the distance towards the Red Dragon.

"So he isn't Seenian?"

She shook her head and held up her PDD.

"No, we have a sample of his DNA now. Lt. Senhadjii was correct, he is Thauran alright and we are pretty sure he is the disgraced Admiral Swybar."

I walked back in and gestured over the dinner table:

"Alright, let's get everyone off duty down here to eat, it would be a shame to have all this wonderful food go to waste."

--””--

INTERLUDE : RED DRAGONEdit The Mood was different now. The Oghar scratched the little bumps he was getting all over his skin and saw the others weren't any better off. Red Dragon had taken off the remnants of his torn and cut battle suit that was not repairing itself as he hoped it would.

He scratched himself all over as well.

The Oghar asked."What are we going to do know? I don’t have a  million Polos, after paying for the spare parts I needed, half a million maybe but that's all I got."

Shuputz had already scratched himself bloody on several spots and growled.

"I have a good mind and kill you before I go. No one can stop me once I am inside, you said! She toyed with us the entire time."

"I can't understand why my suit failed. It should have protected me, even from the Psionic talents she seem to have.."

The Oghar glared at the Red Dragon. "Maybe because you are no Celtest and don't know how to use the suit or it is broken and you didn't know that because you are no Celtest. It is nbothing more than scrap now. Cut by a simple sword. Not that advanced or indestructible if you ask me." Ivok asked ." Will you pay for my antidote? I can’t get a million that fast. I need to sell many things."

Despite all his misery Meateater said. "Have you seen that table? It alone could buy me a new ship with the finest equipment. I could not begin to guess how many Polo's were in those chests. Who could have known she has a Shail in her crew?"

The Puup raised his claw." She is a female. Females like to kill with poison!"

The Wartock tore on his shirt to scratch a spot he could not get to. “She played with us, she has a Y’All and a Nul in her crew. Something tells me she might doing pirate business for all those 400 years they say she does. There are lots of legends and stories about real demons inside the Igrass Expanse. I am convinced she used demon magic to overcome your suit and turn the tank to scrap.”

Red Dragon slammed his fist on the table. "Nonsense! That you are superstitious and believe all this supernatural garbage the miners and scoopers tell, is well known. It was psionics I am sure, maybe she is Sarsii.” He scratched his arms vigorously .”None of you have a good medic aboard?"

The Oghar said." No mine is drunk most of the time and I don't bother much with wounded." Ivok said." I have a decent Sickbay but no medic or Med Bot, the good ones are only Union and impossible to pay for, but I know Crimson Curse has a good Medic and a decent Sick Bay." Shuputz nodded." I sold most of my med gear to Crimson. It was good Kermac tech but I had no one able to use it. How about you?"

Red Dragon now ripped his Bioflex mask of revealing his Thauran face and two bloodshot eyes.

"I am going to kill her. If it is the last thing I do. We are on Sin 4 there must be a Med Facility somewhere."

Shuputz shook his wide head "One that comes up with an antidote against a Shail poison? I doubt it."

"We can crawl back with every Polo we have or we crawl to Crimson and hope his medic is good enough."

Oghar pointed to the viewport." Crimson is no longer an option he just lifts off!" They all watched  the Crimson Hunter climb into the night sky.

--””--

Elfi caught me in the Pirate’s Den after the dinner as I helped to clean the table.

"Captain, the Red Dragon is calling. Do you want to take it?"

The Golden simply took the stack of plates I was holding and I said, giving him a thankful nod: "Yes, Elfi, pipe it down but let them wait three minutes."

Shea put the tray down she had used to gather the silverware, brought me my mask and tugged it in place. Ship activated a field screen and the Red Dragon became visible. He was wearing a loose cloth mask and kept scratching his arms. To the side behind him the Puup who was also scratching himself.

I said without greeting him. "I don't accept any transferable currencies, only cash in the form of Polo full weights or Iridium Chips."

He sounded tired as he said: "Let us end this, Captain Velvet. You have showed us you can play in the big league and we lost the gamble. It also showed me you are very resourceful and that is what counts for my planned endeavor. I have tied up all my cash resources in that project and don't have seven million in cash, but I'll let you have the other suit. It is Celtest and worth way more than that."

I leaned back.

"You are right, the Celtest suit is worth that. Have it brought over. You've got about 12 more minutes by my calculation, but I could be off a few."

He sighed and said: "It is already sitting in a crate before your shields. I give you my word, no tricks."

I cut him off, nodded to Cateria and Circuit and said:

"Check it out first. Make sure there are no surprises hidden."

A few moments later Cateria's voice came over the Comm.

"It is the suit. It is undamaged and there is nothing else, no Nanites, no microbes nothing remote controlled."

"Alright, secure it and put it away safely."

I waited another two minutes and opened the channel again.

"Alright Red Dragon, here is the anti-dote. Take a bath using soap and water, that will take care of the outer symptoms. As for the internal symptoms, they should subside about now."

At first he cursed. But then he laughed.

"You know I am looking forward to working with you. I like your style, stick around for five or six more days and I'll make your wait worthwhile."

---””--

The next morning, I came onto the bridge at 0600.

Three-Four holding the conn and got up “Good morning Captain.

“Good morning Lieutenant.” I also acknowledged the rest of the morning watch and sat down in the Command Chair.

“Should I call the Senior Officers to the Bridge?” He asked.

“No not yet, let them sleep.”

Of course I knew the names of all my officers, but with the exception of Three-Four and TheOther manning Communications I knew little about them. As I turned to see who was at the engineering console, I could not completely stop the smile that crept into my face. “Mr. Warner, are you pulling double shifts? Haven't I seen you on First Dog watch too?”

“I wasn't on duty then, Captain. Sobody was.”

“I see. Well Mr, Warner since you are the engineer on duty., any engineering issues?”

“No Captain, the TransDimtap is online again. All systems are fully operational.”

Sitting at Shaka's station was a very tall Andorian. According to his personal file he had completed his Midshipman year just a six month prior to us on the USS Boney Hoo. Unlike Shaka he was unable to use the Virtu Helm system, but had a high Helm rating of 503. Other than that he was more or less just a face to me.

“Mr. Rohmor while we are dirt side, please run space battle simulations 45 and 46. Coordinate with tactical.”

“Yes, Ma'am.”

TheOther was sitting behind the Communications station.

“Day Code and union fleet brief received at 0001 hours, Captain. Sealed command portion available in your message box, Captain.”

“Very good, Mr. TheOther.”

I opened the classified portion and memorized the day code. The daily fleet brief was a standard message that was transmitted to all Union ships and Navy posts. It contained the state of the Union, a list of hostile and potentially hostile situations and societies and an abridged report on all Assembly decisions that could affect the Navy. Such as new members accepted or societies applying for membership..

A new member had been welcomed yesterday, the Osirians. A species native to Andromeda.

“Say Mr.TheOther, I always wondered why we have GalNet contact, we technically further away from Union space then Brhama Port?”

There is a relay chain, that is how the Death games were transmitted. I think there are a few Union corporations doing business here as well.”

“I was actually suspecting that, thank you.”

The being at the Science Console was a Leedei, Ensign Fichier, other than his name and rank I knew little about him.I had seen him several times during our weekly department meetings. His file mentioned that he had served with the Science Corps for five years before he decided to join the Fleet. I blinked his file up while I said.

“Ensign Fichier anything to report?”

“All science labs are busy. We are currently conducting research on the collected species,. A team is working on the duro crete eating microbes, they are trying to realize your idea in creating a bio based weapon. Others work on a detailed atmosphere analysis. There is an ongoing anthropology study on the Stik and...”

I interrupted him and said. “Seems you are quite busy down there. I look forward to read the science department summary report for the log book. Anything on the ship of this Brathering?”

“Yes Ma'am. Circuit and Mao are working on a detailed report as we speak. The Uhuim is a genuine Kermac T Cruiser and as pirate ships go, perhaps with the exception of the Red Dragon the most powerful pirate ship out there. This is not a customized civilian ship, but a purpose built war ship. We only conducted visual and passive scans so far but it appears the ship is fully armed with Kermac Line Blaster Cannon, FTL and the latest Kermac shimmer shields. We think she can reach 500 klicks. I can read 271 life forms.”

“How did we come to this number? I thought life form scans require active sensors?”

“Sir I am not Narth, but I am still Leedei and without trying to brag,I am one of the most gifted of my kind. I register 18000 on the HPI. My psionics are solely telepathic. I can read them easy

I should mention that we also have a Leedei Tele Psi device as part of our sensor equipment. We are the first ship in the Union fleet  that carries the latest and most advanced Leedei tech. Even Narth is impressed by it.”

“I am too, there isn't a day going by I learn something new about my own ship.”

A voice said. “Indeed and one fact is that you have the only SHIP that orders breakfast for her captain.”

Our Elly chef had appeared next to me, uncovering a platter with bacon filled bread. “SHIP told me that this is a traditional Neo Viking breakfast. I didn't have Fangsnapper bacon, so I used traditional one, but the bread is baked after instructions downloaded from Nilfeheim radio.”

I wanted to correct Mr. Eeeryt or SHIP that this was not a traditional breakfast, but the mouthwatering smell filling the bridge was simply too tempting.

“Mr. Eeeryt, that was very thoughtful of you and I guess I could indulge myself this morning. Having a breakfast like this every morning though, and I look like a butterfly without wings in that suit of mine.”

He was visibly proud as I lauded his creation after taking a bite. It was about as good as food could possibly be. I had him pass the platter around so everyone that wanted could try.

“SHIP,I forgot to say thank you. I doubt even CENTRON does this for Stahl”

“I have it on good authority, CENTRON personally supervises the Devi's onboard brewery to make sure Stahl's beer meets the Admirals expectations,and CENTRON selects Stahl's music and...”

“And you know that how?”

“I asked CENTRON for advice on how to be a good AI.”

“You don't need advice on that.Im am very proud of my SHIP. But one thing is clear, we are not a pirate ship or a proper Union vessel. Let’s hope they never publish our log book.”

I got up, “Seems everything is under control. Mr. Three Four you have the Conn. I am having a cup of coffee in the Den.”

--””--

I actually contemplated to return to bed, as I walked past my quarters. But I was already up and had been an early riser all mylife. I decided against sleeping but was not in a particular hurry.

I was relaxed but still noticed a crew member, down the corridor changing direction very fast as I approached.

Now it could have been coincidence, but I somehow had the distinct feeling, that Crew member didn't want to run into the Captain.

Instead of taking the IST, I followed the Corridor further. There wasn't much more here on the command deck. Har-Hi's quarters, a second conference room, the upper Armory filled with the latest Union weaponry, most of it still prototypes or test units. There were twelve so called VIP quarters behind that, Finally there was the senior officer's mess and officer's lounge. We had never used any of these facilities, I just knew they were there.

Command deck was the smallest deck and all the way on top of the ship. Most civilizations built their bridge or command center deep within the bowels of a ship, to protect this vital part, but Union planners always had Translocator cannons in mind and to these weapons it mattered little where the bridge or engineering was. While no known adversary of the Union had Translocator technology, it was always considered that this secret could be stolen or some unknown species used something similar.

In case of an emergency the entire Command Deck could be separated from the Tigershark and turn into an independent spacecraft with FTL engines. It was called the Captain's Yacht.

One of these days I planned to run a drill of separation and re-uniting the Yacht, but that would have to wait until we could be ourselves.

While I was thinking all this I went down the slightly curved corridor to catch up with that captain avoiding crew member. Initially I had not noticed more than a movement, but now almost caught up coming around the corridor bent I saw a human female with blue skin and shiny coppery hair slip past the doors of the Officer's mess.

A Thauran aboard my ship and from the looks of it,up to no good.

I was just about to call for security when I stopped myself. I had to make sure before I made a fool of myself.

The Tigershark wasn't the Devi, but still a big ship and I hardly knew all of my crew. Sure I had seen them all assembled when I gave my initial speech, or taking part at the meals in the Den but there could of course be a Thauran crew member, they were unfortunatley Union after all.

I rushed in the completely deserted Officers mess. Eight tables and chairs and a serving counter, closed with a steel shutter. Everything looked brand new and had the distinct feel of a place that has never been used, everything was brand new, some of it even still wrapped in plastic film.

It had of course the same mustard yellow carpet and the walls were covered with warm wood paneling. Polished old fashioned looking brass lights gave the place a luxurious, elegant feel.

Only now I noticed a woman standing by a large view port.

She stood close to the curtains that framed that viewport almost as if she wanted to hide behind them. She was quite obviously terrified, and she was Thauran there was no doubt.

She snapped into attention as I came closer. She wore standard fleet issue uniform and had the rank pins of an ensign on her collar and shoulders.

“At ease Ensign. I was ..well I am curious what you are doing here?”

“Ma'am. I was eating here. I didn't want to...”

“You are not in any trouble or anything. I just noticed you turning as I approached and that made follow. Frankly I had never been here. “

“No one ever comes here, Ma'am. Ever since we have the Pirate's Den not even the main mess hall is used,”

“Then why do you?”

“Because I am Thauran, Ma'am and there is this rumor that.., well it was suggested that I stay out of your sight as much as possible.”

I suddenly felt very guilty. I had not been very subtle with my comments expressing my dislike for Thaurans. I even contaminated my best friend Narth with prede judgmental thoughts. How terrible must she feel, thinking her own Captain hated her, just for what she was. Making her eat alone and try to hide from me, even fear me.

“Ensign, I confess I am guilty of the one thing I truly dislike and yet I have done exactly that without even realizing. I also was told never to apologize, but in this case I simply have to.”

Her name, was Dybur as her name tag identified her,

“Ms. Dybur, I really want to apologize if I have by word, action or deeds offended you; made you feel unwelcome and even afraid. Upon reflection I am certain I have done just that.”

She just stood there.

“Ensign forget that I am the Captain for a moment. There is an old man, he was one of my mentors and he called me a fool quite often and right now I can hear his voice calling me that again.”

“Captain, you are not a fool and the crew really respects you. I am sorry for being a Thauran. I know of our reputation oh too well. I am of a high house and have been guilty of our ways myself. It's not just you, Captain. There are many who dislike Thaurans. We don't make friends easily and ...”

I put my hand on her shoulder.

“Well maybe we can try to remedy that. It is true that my past experience with individuals of your kind colored my perception, but it is no excuse for judging and even hating a race or a species. Come Ensign let us have breakfast and in the Den together and you tell me more about you and I tell you about Chief Sodar, a Thauran Weapons Engineer aboard the Devi and about a certain Egill Skallagrimsson who made me clean his tower.”

She suddenly smiled.

“Thank you Captain, I would like that.”

I raised my voice a notch and said. SHIP please put me on ship wide.”

“Shipwide active, Captain.”

“This is Captain Olafson and I want to everyone to know that I have reprimanded myself and will record this in our official log. I have in word and deed offended and discriminated against members of our crew and members of the Union. A Thauran crew member felt she had to hide from me. Caused by my insensitivity and openly displayed racism and dislike. This Is unacceptable anywhere in the Union, it is unacceptable aboard any Union ship and most certainly on mine. Our societies core value is based on the inclusion of everyone, to celebrate the differences that makes us individuals and embrace with pride what unites us. I was told once, Officers do not apologize but nothing less will do to express my shame and my true felt apologies, to her and everyone else that might have been offended or affected by misconduct.

We will hunt, bring to justice and perhaps even terminate the lives of those who oppose us, but race, species or origin shall never be the motivation or reason. So in closing I repeat my apologies and hope it will be accepted.”

The Thauran woman snapped in attention. “Captain, apologies accepted. Thank you!”

--””--

There was always someone in our Pirate Den. It had become the most popular recreation room of the ship. Even more than the actual R Deck facilities. It had become a second ,mess hall and if needed and with the dividing curtains raised there was plenty of room for the entire crew to eat. Of course it also provided a challenge for the galley, as this was a Hangar and not meant for food service.

While there were vent matics and drink dispensers on pretty much every deck. There weren't any down here, but that didn't stop my crew. Circuit had asked permission to make some changed and I knew he was working on ways to address the many logistical problems that my spontaneous idea to have our meals in a hangar caused.

Luckily my crew was still technically a skeleton crew, the 360 serving her instead of the 800 she was designed to have.

As I entered our Pirate's Den, a Vantax standing next to the door started to clap and seconds later everyone applauded me. The Vantax I had seen only during my initial address said. “Captain, I am proud to serve you. This was a mighty fine thing you did. I doubt any other Captain would have ever admitted to something and apologized.”

I tried to remember his name, as he was in civilian attire, he did not have a name tag. Thankfully I received Narth's thoughts. “This is Lt. Ziodo. Call him Dr. Ziodo, he much prefers academic titles over his rank. He is part of our science department and the resident xeno biologist.”

“Dr. Ziodo, I appreciate the sentiment but this isn't necessary. I still will have to give orders that won't be liked and this perhaps raised expectations I can't always meet.”

“You underestimate your crew, Captain. We are all Union citizens before we started wearing uniforms and the commitment to duty and the understanding of doing one's part is part of our shared society for nearly 3000 years. “

I wondered how a Vantax ended up in a Fleet ship. They were known to be very peaceful and shy and not very many found their way into the armed services.

The only other Vantax I had ever met was during Year two at the Academy and he was a Political science instructor there. The Vantax before me had the same grayish skin, elongated head and triangular very pronounced eye sockets with deep black eyes. There was nothing that resembled a nose or ears. The deep set mouth reminded me of a Flicker fish. He also had very large hands with three fingers and a thumb.

He added. “Perhaps you wonder why a Vantax was picked for this crew, Captain?”

“Dr. Zido, this crew was handpicked by immortals and fleet admirals. So far I can say I am a very lucky Captain, they gave me perhaps the best crew in the Universe.”

“I am here, because I was aboard the Lucky Green, five years ago. We were attacked by pirates and many passengers lost their lives. Yes we Vantax are known to be peaceful and abhore violence in all its forms, but I came to realize that sometimes there is no alternative to violence if you want to live and protect yourself and those you care about. We Vantax are peaceful. Sadly the Universe isn't.”

“There isn't really much I can add to this, Dr. Ziodo.”

“Your idea of turning this local microbe into a material defeating weapon is brilliant, Captain. We just finished mapping the DNA and I am certain it can be tweaked to do what you had in mind.”

“It was just a hypothetical thought. I had no idea you guys take that literally. “

“All it takes is an idea for every invention.”

Over at the big table was Circuit and a small crowd. I also noticed Narth and Shea.

Suddenly out from between them a black object with large wings shot up in the air with a loud screech and approached me fast.

The only weapon I had was the old Colt.I had the gun out of the holster in an eyeblink but not fast enough. Whatever it was, landed on my shoulder!

To call me completely surprised was an understatement. Some kind of lizard like life form with large leathery wings, a long spiked tail and an equally long almost snake like neck with a small head, and a maw filled with needle sharp teeth sat right next to my face.

I was bringing up the old gun to blast the thing when my hand met with an invisible barrier and Narth said. “Please don't kill it.”

“What in the name of Loki is that? And get it of my shoulder!”

The animal or whatever it was protested quite loud as invisible telekinetics lifted it off my shoulder, shredding the thin leather over the micro mesh in the process.

The whole gang present seemed to hold their collective breath.

“Hello guys this is your Captain. Something big, ugly and alive just landed on my shoulder and shredded my suit anyone care to explain.”

Narth said. “This is what hatched out of the egg that Circuit bought at the pirate market the other day,”.

I noticed it to be very intelligent and on the threshold of sentience. It also appears to feel a great attraction to you for some reason.”

“You let Circuit bring in an alien egg and let it hatch? What if the thing hatched some mind controlling indestructible monster from another dimension, or contaminated us all with some disease? Don't we have proper bio containment equipment and specialists?”

I noticed Dien Tallow and the brunette scientist in the crowd and they both made guilty faces.

Shea said. “It's clean, no harmful bacteria or any other kind of microbes. And it was in a cage, just moments ago...”

“So you say it harmless, right?”

Shea spread her arms. “No not exactly, we think it could be a tad dangerous”

“In Odin's name. I don't mind you buying souvenirs or collect critters at the trash dump, but I did not expect a flying snake with bat wing deciding to use me for a perch. Since you are all in it together, maybe you elect someone to explain the whole thing from the start and then what is it?”

Shea said. “Circuit bought an egg from a curiosity dealer.among many other things. And we scanned it all before he carried it aboard. Narth noticed the egg not to be a sculpture but the cell of a life form. He was certain the creature had latent psionic abilities.

Well Circuit developed sort of fatherly feelings for it and did not want us to harm or dissect it.

Long story short it ended up in Bio Lab 2 safely contained, and it hatched overnight.

The life form somehow managed to get out and played with Circuit and half the science staff.

Narth was certain the thing opened the cage with psionics and now we know it can phase shift.”

“Somehow got out doesn’t sound safely contained to me, and what is Phase Shift?”

“It is able to bypass matter in a quantum state. Or in other words going through solid objects. Now it can,t go through the neutronium lined walls and armor of the Tigershark, but the normal Ultronit wall inside  and normal doors seem not to be a barrier. It followed Circuit and Narth said it has friendly feelings. In terms of science this little beast is an enigma and we don't know what it is. Sobody thinks he knows an old legend of the Ongloran empire about winged space demons.

Not that anything like this exists,”

I said. “It does. Demons or something in that regard do exist. Or more likely the inhabitants of a place called Anti Universe. The Netherworld are the source of many of these demonic stories.”

They all looked at me as if I told them I believed in faery tales.

Narth said. “The captain is correct, the Narth Supreme just verified it.”

Our Yeoman stepped next to me. “I am of the Coven and we have come from that Nether Plane. Our true existence is known to very few.Our Captain is the reason we Coven are Union members and the Narth Supreme has supported our membership.

We must keep our true origin secret to most as it is disturbing and frightful to most. Only two humans alive have seen our true form and have not been afraid, Admiral Stahl and Eric Olafson.

This little beast however is not from the Netherworlds as far as I can tell.”

Har-Hi said. “We Dai have many legends of firery winged demons haunting the Igras expanse and a few other places beyond space known to the Union. So have many cultures.I am not surprised that there is truth to the legends. I am surprised that they are members of the Union though.”

“Only we Coven are, not all that dwells on the other side. Because you are more than shipmates I divulged this to but please do not addit to any reports”

They all promised.

“Can we get back to that thing now?”

Narth said. “For reasons I can not ascertain but this creature appears to like you.”

“Let it go.”

Sure enough the vicious looking Mini dragon or flying snake with legs screeched flapped his leathery wings and landed on my outstretched arm.”You couldn't find us a Nubhir puppy or a cat?” I asked Circuit.

Shea said .”The ship needed a mascot after all.”

“The dragon Fenris in our Book of Legends looks a bit like this thing.”

--””--

Over the next two days we heard nothing from the Red Dragon. But our own little dragon was seen playing with crew members all over the ship and seemed to feel right at home.

I wondered how I should phrase that in my logbook entry.

It was actually quite boring,sitting there on this landing field.

The fifth day passed without much going on. Elfi had hacked into their transmissions and we knew it was the Intruder that caused the delay. The Oghar's ship had engine problems They managed to find a suitable spare part only after the third day and it took them four more days to install it. The Dragon had called us several times and gave us updates. He had officially invited us to follow him to Itheamh where he would pick up the rest of his convoy and do the final preparations. Even though Circuit's nanites managed to hack into their data banks there was no information about the Seenian depot.

It really looked like we had no other choice but to follow him until we were able to obtain that information.

The Nul prince had been able to talk to his father and most of the crew had a chance to call home as well.

The Tigershark did not have the same elaborate recreational facilities as the Devastator or a battleship, but we did have four Holo tanks and an elaborate Virtu Library. Since we were within reach of GalNet, we also had access to the latest entertainment offerings. According to Narth and Har Hi, the crew was in good spirits and no one resented the possibility that we had to go on a long trip, much longer than anticipated.

The Fleet had thousands of years' experience how to keep crews happy even on long assignments. Our ship was well equipped, but the fact that we weren't in space and that we stood on the same spot now for almost two weeks without the chance to really go outside was not something I wanted my crew to experience much longer.

I was in one of our gyms and exercised my sword skills, going through the thousand moves exercise, ancient instructions part of the Warrior tome. This old book of fighting instructions been part of Master Alameda’s tutorship.

I found great solace and inner balance while doing that under dimmed light. It was an exercise that required great concentration especially now, as Master Alameda was here via Avatar presence, and as usual was not shy pointing out where I had to improve. He was not at all happy with my sword draw and complained that I did it with little elegance. He demonstrated and I knew I still had a long way to go to reach his level.

He no longer instructed at the academy. He was retired now and lived on a Saresii world near snow capped mountains in a very simple house with sparse furniture.

Then he suddenly switched from instructing me and attacked and I had to give my all not to be sliced in ribbons.

The Avatar projection was a shaped force field that simulated the texture and weight of a real person. The simulated sword was sharp enough to cut and kill. He continued his instruction and talked as if he was taking an afternoon stroll.

"It looks like my pupil has trained with the Gray Cats and learned some ancient moves not taught on Sares since the first Empire. Very impressive but sloppy, don't concentrate so hard, let it flow."

I was not sure if I should have been more impressed by him knowing that or by the fact that he was still light years ahead of me in skill. I grinned and parried another lighting fast attack of his and he repaid me by slapping the flat side of his blade across my butt. It was more embarrassing than hurting, and after the third time I got angry and suddenly he stopped talking and we fought silently. Only the whispering blades interrupted the silence and then he said:

"When you tap your inner anger you change. Your style changes, you no longer exercise you are out to kill and that my pupil is both good and frightening, I bowed in the required manner and then wiped the sweat of my face.

"I don't know if I could ever get angry enough to beat you Master Alameda."

He also bowed.

"I know I don't want to be there for real if when you do my pupil. Continue with the Ahkth-urm exercise, your draw is very slopy and if you are still stuck on that planet we shall continue tomorrow. Now my fish need attention and feeding."

With these words his avatar blinked out. Only now did I notice Har-Hi standing at the door to the gym, and he said:

"He is right you know. I consider myself a good blade fighter and I don't think there are many Dai or Humans I would need to fear, but when you get in that zone of yours, all I really want is to run."

"Come on, flattering your Captain isn't your style. I am nowhere your equal when you fight for real."

He said pointing at the blade I carried:

"Interesting weapon that old Saresii blade. It has elements of the humans' samurai sword and the Dai Kith-mner. Show me that Ahkth-urm exercise."

In perfect tandem like exercising with my own shadow, Har Hi and I went through every move.

Elfi called and said:

"Sorry to disturb you two, half the ship is watching with awe but there is a large freight skimmer approaching us requesting boarding permission. The person requesting it is someone asking for assistance from her Soja. She also requests tactical support as she is under attack."

"Clear Hangar Bay E and let her board. Tactical assist with all means necessary, but use the weapons of our Janus disguise first. The safety of that skimmer is paramount. Clear all personnel off and around Hangar Bay E until I give the okay. This area is off limits to all. Put Marines on all access ports."

Har-Hi gave me a surprised look. There was a big question mark in his face and I said to him:

"As soon as I know details I'll fill you in, until then, this is Blue Blue Red classified and so is the Hangar area."

I rushed to the hangar wondering why the Mother Superior was coming using the nickname she had given me and why she was coming with a freight skimmer. She had said nothing when I met her.

It was a big modern freight skimmer, of the same type I had used on Nilfeheim. It had several scorch marks, but was not damaged seriously. From its crew compartment came four black dressed Sojonites and the Mother Superior. I ran over to her and said:

"Are you okay? I hope you are not harmed in any way."

"I am fine my Soja. It warms my old heart to see and feel the concern you have for my well-being. My mind calls me a fool for not calling ahead and tell you, but there was so much to do."

I said to her:

"The hangar is secure to Blue Blue Red protocol; can you tell me what happened?"

She put a hand on my shoulder.

"You happened, my Soja. This world was the same for 500 years and no change was in sight but you come and Sin 4 is soon no more. I have evacuated the temple due to the pending storm that is about to happen. The regular Sojonit sisters have left to other places. The Minerva has taken many and all our temple furniture, but you know there are components and secrets that cannot be trusted to anyone. Secrets that need to be kept even from the soon arriving Union forces, and these secrets are in this skimmer. I used every precaution to make sure no one associated this freight skimmer with the Order, and I made a big detour, but such a big freight skimmer attracted the usual sky vermin over the city and I am very thankful for the skillful shooting of your tactical officer."

I asked.

"What will happen to the Sojonit Order?"

"Nothing at all, we will continue to do business. Our main temple at the Rainbow World is not affected and we have thousands of temples all over the galaxy. Just this one needs to be relocated, unless the Stik want us back. So we will be your guests until we can arrange for a Sojo transport to take these things to a new location."

I said:

"This might not be anytime soon; as there is the possibility I am going to take a long trip to unknown regions of the Galaxy."

She nodded.

"I know, I have talked to Richard. He is working on a solution as we speak and said we will be safest aboard your ship. These four Avenging Angels are my personal guard and also members of the Gray cat society. Two of them you know already, they are also Saresii and Union members and might become useful and I am sure I can be useful to you as well."

"What do you want me to tell my crew?"

"I will remain the Mother Superior for the time being and you can tell them everything I told you without going too much into detail about my true identity and the things we did underneath the temple."

I did brief my senior officers with Mother Superior present and then went to take a shower and change. I was barely inside the shower cabin when Elfi called me again.

"Captain you are needed on the bridge. There is much going on outside and Har-Hi just called for Battle Stations."

At the same moment I heard the Klaxons.

I said "Har-Hi, report." while jumping into the Auto Dresser.

"Hell just broke loose on Sin 4. Everyone with Spaceships is fleeing and we are attacked as well as all the other Ships. The attackers are panicked crowds of beings."

I made it to the bridge and into the Conn Seat a few moments later. On the main viewer I saw thousands of beings swarming the Landing field. Some firing hand weapons at the still present ships.

Elfi said:

"Captain the Red Dragon is hailing us."

"Put him on."

The red dressed pirate appeared on the screen and said,

"You better get your ship of planet fast. We meet at Alvor's Cove as that is as far as Meateater will make it with his half fixed engines."

I asked.

"What is causing all this?"

On a side screen I saw the Red Dragon lifting off, pulling the Intruder with a tractor beam while the Pirate on the main screen answered.

"The News just came through that Sin 4 is now a Union World. The Devastator and a huge Union Armada supposedly is already on its way. I don't want to be here and find out this is true."

I said:

"Alright, see you at Alvor's Cove!"

The transmission blinked off and I said:

"Shaka get us out of here, Krabbel plot a course to Alvor's Cove and Elfi get me secure Channel to Admiral Stahl."

The Admiral appeared.

"The days of the old Sin 4 are numbered. I will be there in 15 Minutes. Do you have our friend aboard?"

I answered.

"Yes Mother Superior is safely aboard. We are breaking Orbit in a few minutes and heading for Alvor's Cove. I was just wondering if we can get a Visual Feed. It's Shea's Home you know."

He said:

"Switch your Janus device to display a Union ship and you can see for yourself. Go to Fleet Alpha. I am designating the USS Tigershark as a forward observation Unit. We need to rendezvous anyway so I can take the Sojonites aboard."

I looked to Narth and asked. "Narth can we switch unobserved?"

He said: "We are in the upper atmosphere obscured by clouds below and there is nothing in range that could see us from above. It should be no problem"

"Then go for it and turn on Union transponder. Elfi switch to Fleet Alpha. Shaka take us out of orbit. I need to see that."

Somehow it felt good to me to be a Union ship on the outside again.

Narth magnified the optical sensors and we observed the Devi that massive ship dropped out of Quasi and with her the entire First Fleet.

The Union Navy consisted of many fleets. Each fleet consisted of four Battle groups, plus Fleet Tenders, Hospital Ships, Repair Ships, Planet Bombers, Drop Ships and Marine Carriers. But only the first Fleet also included the Devastator.

It was an incredibly unforgettable sight and demonstrated more than anything I ever seen before the might of the Union.

TheOther who almost always stood near Hans at the Security Station when he was not on official duty whispered: "Oh my God!"

Swarms of Wolfcraft, thick as clouds screamed into the systems inner orbits fast, their shields glowed bright white with Micro matter impacts and looked like energy beams.

From Elfi's console we could hear Stahl's steady voice as he issued commands to his fleet. Then his voice addressed us:

"Stahl calling the XO of the Tigershark."

Har-Hi identified." Yes Sir?"

Stahl said: "Direct your visual sensors to Fleet transponder 495849 and check out the Fighters now being launched from the new USS Tor-Hi."

Har-Hi whispered.

"They named a ship after my Grandfather!"

Narth magnified on a dark red ship.

"It was distinctive Union but also had Dai Than design elements. Revolver Starters turned on the sides of the Carrier and fighters emerged, also colored red instead of the usual Union light gray. Narth magnified further and had trouble to keep our visuals focused on these new fighters. They looked longer and more pointed than the elongated discs of usual Wolfcrafts. Glancing to the side I was certain there was a tear in Har-Hi's eye.

Stahl's voice said addressing Har HI:

"I thought you might enjoy seeing the first official deployment of the new Kahri-Wolfs. Many are flown by Dai of your Clan by the way."

Har-Hi almost melted into the view screen and said:

"Thank you, Sir."

Whatever ship was still in the system had no chance. Whoever did not immediately surrender was destroyed. The arriving Union fleet cleaned house heavy handedly. Many privateers and civilian ships failed to comply to be boarded after the first hail. There was no second chance, no argument or discussion. Stahl was here and with him the iron broom of the Union.

Lumbering Marine Drop Ships turned into Orbit around Sin 4 and we saw the many thousands of tiny dots rain on the planet, Marines in Quasimodos, followed by Cerberus robots and landing tanks. Wolfcrafts and Kahri-Wolfs now screamed into the atmosphere.

I turned to see the Science station and said to Shea.

"Soon the word Skaakh will be only remembered in history and at least on that world no one will suffer hunger. Maybe the Stik will even rename their world."

She wiped a tear from her eyes and said:

"This is for you Mama for your dream of a better world is now a reality. I just wish she could have seen it happen."

Har-Hi said:

"My father's decision was the right one. Those Dai will not be hunted to extinction or suffer hunger when supplies run out. They have schools and are still allowed to do what they do best. I am glad we joined."

I looked at him and said:

"I am glad you did as well!"

The Nul who stood in the back of the bridge said:

"Your father's decision will also be ours. I am seeing Dai Than with Terran tech and Translocators, a war with the Union would have been much shorter than we had thought."

Har-Hi still glowed in the moment.

"I had similar sentiments and then a Union Commander said to me not so long ago: 'Wait till you see Wolfcraft Squadrons with Dai Pilots'.

I am so privileged to see that day come. If you Nul indeed join the Union the day will come we see Nul Union Marines in Atlas Battle Suits."

It was TheOther who said: "This would be a sight even Y'All would fear to see. I am certain of that."