Federation One
Author: J. W. Murison
Date: 2018-05-29T18:00:00+00:00
Description: This is the story of what happened when the human battlegroup that is tasked with joining up with Federation forces, reaches the premier training space station Federation One. It infills the story of the Sir William Wallace, and the drama there that unfolded when some of Stevens crew, joined the Captain for dinner. We also meet some of the characters that were prominent in some of the earlier novels and of course, get to know some of the aliens a little better. In this book we also get to know the Ortea and the Dent, and the twists and turns that came to pass during the negotiations, and also
Publisher: Amazon

Federation

One

J W Murison

Copyright © 2017 J W Murison

All rights reserved.

ISBN:

ISBN-13:

DEDICATION

To Danny Gibson, Davie Walker, George Towbridge and James (Buggs) Garrick. Hopefully, the next time we bump in, I will be able to stay more than an hour.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to say thank you to Jeannie Michaud for all of the covers she has don’t for me to date. I hope you like my first attempt at one Jeannie, and it doesn’t embarrass you .

CHAPTER 1

It could be seen from thousands of miles away, shining like an evening star. Within a few hundred miles it began to take shape in the darkness of space. Thousands of pairs of eyes strained to make out its exact shape. As it drew closer, it did not disappoint.

‘Looks like a mushroom,’ decided one of the operators on the bridge of the Earth Defence Force ship, The Burning Wind.

‘Nah,’ disagreed his companion, ‘It’s like one big one and then a heap of smaller ones joined onto the stem.’

‘Let’s can the speculation until we have docked gentlemen.’ The brisk retort came from the man high up on the Captain’s platform.

‘Aye aye, Captain,’ they replied simultaneously.

Captain Douglas McKinnon climbed down from the lofty heights of the Captain’s platform and wandered over to the big screen. As the object came closer, more and more detail could be made out. There was one thing for certain: the space station was huge.

Commander John Noaks cleared his throat, ‘Sir, we are approaching the outer marker.’

‘Signal the group. We are approaching the outer marker. Reduce speed to five hundred miles per hour, on the marker.’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Comms Sir.’

‘Yes comms?’

‘We have a signal coming in from Federation One. Audio only.’

‘Put it up, let’s hear it.’

‘Connecting now.’

A strange voice filtered through the loudspeakers. ‘Federation One to all Earth Defence Force ships. Continue to observe marker speeds and then hold at the inner marker. You will then be prioritised to land in sequence. Please put your best pilots at the helm, this will be a manual docking.’

A look of horror passed between the bridge staff. The Captain turned towards the two men who were standing at the back of the bridge.

‘Have either of you two ever tried a manual docking?’

Commander John Logan and Commander Alfie Lloyd, both former astronauts, shook their heads. Logan spoke for both.

‘Sorry Sir, I’ve never heard of anyone doing a manual docking.’

‘You did it on the space shuttle right?’

‘Yes Sir, we did. However, this thing is a damn sight bigger than a space shuttle. I wouldn’t even like to try it. Hell, I wouldn’t know where to start.’

The Captain ran his fingers through his thinning hair, ‘Oh dear…’

‘Comms Sir, Federation One is waiting for us to reply.’

‘Acknowledge their signal and add this: we do not have a single pilot on the fleet who has ever attempted a manual docking. Will hold at the inner marker for further instructions.’

There was a slight delay, ‘Seriously?’ Came the response.

In the control room aboard the space station Federation One, the signaller looked to his Commander for further instructions. The commander was rubbing his snout vigorously.

‘They don’t have a single accredited pilot?’

‘No Sir.’

‘Not even on one of their ships?’

‘No Sir, not one.’

‘Okay, tell them to hold at the inner marker and wait for further instructions. Do any of them know how to initiate auto docking procedures?’

The reply was quick in coming. ‘Yes they do, they say they use them for refuelling.’

‘Of course they do. I will kick this upstairs.’

The Commander got straight onto the command network. It took a bit of explaining before he received permission to bring them in under auto pilot.

‘Let the Humans know that they are to hold at the inner marker. We will bring them in one at a time. When ordered to, they will relinquish hold to the controllers here on Federation One. At that time they are to sit back from the controls and touch nothing. Make that point very clear.’

‘Yes Sir.’

The small fleet of ships stopped at the inner marker. The Captain of the Burning Wind watched as they took the auxiliary ships in first. The first to dock was their supply ship, the Cardigan Bay, then their tanker, the Oakleaf. After that they took in his complement of destroyers - the Antelope, Courageous, Dunkirk, Exeter, Illustrious, Intrepid, Kestrel, Northumberland and Ulysses. A section of the space station had turned to greet them. He knew the words on the face of the station said “Modloch configuration”. The ships slid right into their slots. Sections moved away from the side of the space station and latched onto the ships as they docked. The Burning Wind was docked last and they were told to remain aboard. It was almost an hour before their new Commander, with a full entourage at his back, appeared at the main airlock. Weapons snapped up, and the group were escorted to the bridge under strict guard. The guard on the bridge also added their weapons to those pointed at the person who walked in front.

He took a walk round the bridge, taking everything in. Finally he came to stand in front of Captain McKinnon.

Douglas stood up, ‘Lower your weapons gentlemen, now.’ A few hesitated, ‘I said NOW.’

The Albany’s eyes swivelled in different directions. When all of the weapons had been lowered the eyes came to rest on Douglas. Douglas came to attention and saluted. It seemed to amuse the Albany.

‘I have no idea what you are doing Captain.’

‘We call it a salute Sir. It is a form of respect shown to those higher in rank.’

‘I see, it’s very pretty, but if you go around here doing that, you are going to be laughed at more than you are now. Just stand to attention, that is the proper protocol while serving with the Federation.’

Douglas snapped his hand down, ‘Aye aye, Sir.’

‘Do you have a stutter?’

Douglas had to think for a moment, ‘No Sir, another tradition.’

‘I am Colonel Man Dei, I am in charge of your training. I have been trying to work out your very confusing rank structure but I gave up. All you need to know is that I am senior to all of you.’ He looked around, ‘To point a weapon at a senior Commander is considered mutiny, or treason. It carries the death penalty. Be warned, the next time one of your people point a weapon at me, I will have him dragged away and executed. I may be Albany, and my father may have been killed while invading your solar system, but I am a career Federation officer. While serving with the Federation, you are of the Federation. We of the Federation consider ourselves raceless. Or maybe if you wish, of all races. You had best make that clear to all of your people.’

‘I will Sir, let me apologise.’

‘Please don’t,’ Man Dei interrupted, ‘I find it pathetic. In my eyes you couldn’t get any lower than you already are. In all the history of the Federation, you are the first group to join us that couldn’t dock their own ships. The senior staff always gather to witness the arrival of new comers. They consider it a little light relief. There is always a few who make a right Royal mess of things, and we find it amusing. The greatest shame for a new Commander of a group is if one of his ships has to be docked automatically; we allow three attempts. Yet here we are, the whole damn battle group. Not a single decent pilot. My embarrassment goes far deeper than any apology can assuage. It is unfortunate that I do not have the authority to order the lot of you to fly into the nearest sun. If I had, I would. Now relieve your men of their posts.’

‘May I ask why Sir?’

‘Only this once. So my men can secure your ship properly.’

Douglas gave the order and his men stepped away from their stations. Man Dei’s people quickly secured the ship. It didn’t take them long.

Man Dei looked round the bridge once more, ‘As of now this bridge is off limits to all non-qualified personnel. We are now going to the rest of your small fleet to do the same thing. Remember, I will not tolerate any more weapons pointed at me Captain.’

‘I will get them told Sir.’

‘See that you do. Tell me, do Humans have any expressions regarding first impressions?’

‘We do Sir.’

‘Fascinating.’

Man Dei left the bridge with his personnel in tow. Douglas let out a long sigh. ‘What a bloody stramash!’

Chapter 2

Man Dei, or Mandy as the Humans had nicknamed him, walked up the row of Captains and Commanders. He turned at the end of the row and walked back. He stopped at Douglas McKinnon and rolled an eye downwards. Still he said nothing and began pacing again. He repeated the process a half dozen times before stopping once more in front of Douglas.

‘I really don’t know where to start.’

He paced up and down twice more before stopping at Douglas again, ‘Stolen technology. That’s what they are telling me, it is because you have stolen the technology you are using,’ he held up a large hand, ‘Don’t try and say it is borrowed technology, I don’t care, it is only a phrase. The bottom line is you are worse than children. I have a ten-year-old nephew who can do more complicated mathematics than your best engineers,’ he stiffened, ‘Sorry, I had a nephew. My brother was an engineer, they were on the city ship and were murdered by your people,’ he could see the Humans flinch at the mention of the invasion and was pleased at their reaction. ‘As a race of advanced beings, you are completely and utterly useless. I am having to draught in junior school teachers to teach your people mathematics,’ he shook his head, ‘Why was I so unlucky?!’ He began pacing again and returned to Douglas. The eye rolled down.

‘You are a Post Captain, a senior Captain. The tests I gave you all last week were for junior school children. Every single Human failed, including you. I was hoping for something, some glimmer of hope. I even had the mathematical symbols changed to those you use on Earth,’ he shook his head in a Human manner, ‘Still every single one of you failed. I would kick you all out, every one of you. However, sometime today, one of your fast freighters are dropping off some young navigators. It seems they have graduated from some university on something you Humans call the Moon.’

He turned to face Douglas so he could look down his long nose at him. Both eyes focused on him, ‘This is your last chance Captain McKinnon, if these navigators can’t pass the junior maths tests I am going to kick the lot of you out of here. I don’t care what Emperor Ne´ Langus says. In the end it is my decision. It will be a moment in Federation history. I wouldn’t be the first to kick out a Captain and his crew for incompetence, but I would be the first to kick out a whole battlegroup. It isn’t quite how I want to be remembered Captain. Give me something to work with,’ he emphasised those final words then turned and left.

The Captains slumped with relief.

‘What a prick!’ Voiced the Commander of the Antelope.

‘Cut that shit out Andrew.’

Andrew Gordon shook his head, ‘Sorry Sir, but he is always riding our asses.’

‘He has damn good reason to Andrew. We are considered to be the best of the best. I checked, those tests were for primary school children, and we all failed. I feel no pride in that. Do you?’

‘No, of course not Sir.’

He waved a hand at the tables and chairs, ‘Sit down gentlemen, we really need to talk this through and try to find solutions.’

They all sat down and Douglas cast his eyes over them. At home they were considered the best, these men had been with Douglas for years now. On every exercise at home, along with admiral Baxter, they had been running rings around their opposition. It was why they were chosen as a single group to come here. Baxter knew and trusted them. One Australian, one Canadian, two Englishmen and the rest Scots. They had all joined the Scottish Navy. There wasn’t a single one who regretted the choice. Douglas decided it was time to remind them of that.

‘Gentlemen, we are the best of the best. The best that Humanity has to offer. I think we are all becoming aware that it isn’t good enough for the Federation. I took a picture of those tests and sent them to the freighter. According to the signal we got this morning from our replacement navigators, the tests are very simple.’

There was a snort from the far end of the table and Douglas smiled, ‘I felt the same way Mark, but at least it is a glimmer of hope.’

Commander Mark Witherington looked up, ‘I apologise for my outburst Sir. I thought I was damn good at maths.’

‘You did better than most of us Mark.’

‘I still failed.’

‘The kind of maths they teach their children is a lot different to the stuff we learned at school.’

‘Somehow that revelation doesn’t make me feel any better Sir. How come we haven’t had any of these smart kids before now?’

‘Because it took time to teach the teachers Mark. I did ask.’

‘So was it one of the new universities on the Moon?’

‘One of Steven Gordon’s universities. It would seem he built one that is dedicated to stellar cartography and navigation. According to the communication I received, they have received a good grounding in stellar navigation, but they wouldn’t pass any of the advanced navigational tests that they require to become accredited navigators. We can only hope it is enough to make them worth teaching.’

‘Ain’t they supposed to be accredited before they are posted?’ Asked the Australian Captain Lance Williams of the Courageous.

‘Aren’t we all Lance?’

‘We are accredited, but not for this shit,’ Lance spat back.

‘You are absolutely right Lance. We are, for the seas back on Earth.’

‘I think we got stuck with the shitty end of the stick Sir.’

They all laughed, ‘We have, but can you think of anyone else more capable than the Navy to do this job?’

‘Hell no.’

‘We are trail blazers for the rest of Humanity. What we fail at is far more important than what we succeed at. We need to be completely honest with the powers at be, no matter how bad a light it paints us in.’

‘We all get that Sir. I think being here has thrown us a little,’ there were a few bobbing heads at Lance’s statement. ‘It is inexperience that is dragging us down, education, or the lack of it on the right subjects. Everything we have learned has been from our Modloch advisors and it still ain’t enough.’

‘I know, I know. I have taken to reading literature on space anomalies. The main problem is, I don’t even know the basics, half the words don’t have an equivalent in English. At home we built up a lifetime of knowledge sailing on the sea before we took command roles. The dangers we face in space are far different, and just as lethal if we get it wrong. We need help and we need it badly.’

‘From where Sir?’ Lance pushed, ‘The whole damn fleet, hell, all of our fleets, are in exactly the same position as we are. They can’t help. They are trying back home with the kids that are coming through now, but they are being taught by people who have never been into deep space.’

‘There are plenty people with experience all around us Lance.’

‘These assholes turn up their noses at us and bark their strange laughs every time they see one of us.’

Douglas thought it over, ‘I have a little plan forming in my mind. Next week, if we are allowed, we are going to be taking part in field exercises. If we can beat the crap out of them, then the chances are they might just begin to listen.’

‘You mean force them into a position where they will want to help us Sir?’

‘Aye Lance, if we can win some measure of respect from them, then they may think it is worth their while keeping us on.’

Lance sat back, ‘If they let us play.’

Chapter 3

Man Dei cast his eyes over the Human contingent, ‘Full safety protocols are online. You shouldn’t be able to do anything stupid. Your bridge crew will, by necessity, be professionals I have selected for this exercise. Your people can stand behind them and watch. We will be testing your tactical knowledge and your troops’ fighting abilities. Please take a look at the model.’

The model itself was a 3D depiction of the area they had to attack.

‘A troopship of unknown origin and its escort are heading to the Asteroid Beta Three. Quite simply, you are to stop it. Their objective is a building on the south side of the landing zone. If they reach it, you have lost. You are not allowed to use ship weapons on any troops that land. Neither are you allowed to use any kind of primitive Earth weapon. If you are planning to defend the base, your people will have to draw infantry weapons. We will respond appropriately to your attacks. If a ship’s shields sustain enough damage, then they will be dropped. However, so will yours.

‘This is a tactical exercise using the out-going recruits. The purpose of it is to show you how far you have to go in your training. The boundaries of the exercise are within the asteroid field. Because it is contained within the asteroid field, you will not be able to slip in and out. Obviously, if you wish to land troops on the target site first, that is allowed. I can tell you now that if your enemy is able to hit the target area, they will simply bombard the target site, which would effectively kill all your troops inside anyway. A piece of advice: save your troops. Your forces are evenly numbered with your enemy having one more ship than you; obviously the troopship. They will be allowed to reach the asteroid field first; once they pass the start line, you will be allowed to advance to contact.

‘The path you will follow within the asteroid field is well marked. It is a zig zag path. You will not be able to go outwith the boundaries of the path. It was designed specifically for this exercise. It isn’t unusual for outposts to be on asteroid fields and have a path like this cut through the field. So this is a very accurate simulation. Destruction of the surrounding asteroids is not allowed as in a real-life scenario, the resulting mess is as much a danger to your own ships as it is the enemy’s. Do not build that into your response. Is that understood Captain McKinnon?’’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘In that case I will leave you with your instructors.’

Man Dei marched out and a grizzled old instructor lifted a leg and farted loudly. ‘Humans huh? I am a Brahma, Colonel Maka Mahab. As you can see I am a handsome old bastard; we are so pretty they keep us out on the rim. I’ve been in more fights, more battles and more scrapes than half the assholes on this station. They don’t like me. I don’t fit into their ideal of a Federation officer. Because they don’t like me, they gave me to you. That means they don’t like you either. Hell I don’t like you, but I am curious,’ he leaned on the table. He wasn’t as big as many of the other races, maybe about six and a half feet tall. He was grizzled, broad shouldered and had some resemblance to a bear. To the Humans, he wasn’t as uncomfortable to look at as some of the alien species they had come across.

‘I have been here five years. I know this scenario, you are meant to tail the enemy fleet. They will send their troop carrier on ahead. Even if you bust through their fleet, you won’t catch the carrier. If you have troops at the station, they will neutralise them from space. They win, end of story. It gives the leaving recruits a little boost before they go. Of course, as they got their asses whipped at the beginning of their training doing the exact same scenario, they know exactly how to win.’

McKinnon’s first question surprised him, ‘Are our fighters allowed to go outwith the boundaries of this path?’

‘Why the hell would you want to send your fighters out into that? You will get them all killed.’

‘We have time right?’

‘Yeah, you have a day to scout out the mission area.’

‘So, are we allowed to let our fighters into this area?’

‘You aren’t allowed to place your fighters around the base before the fight starts. You ain’t allowed to release your fighters until you are over the start line and they aren’t allowed to leave the asteroid belt either.’

‘I know that - it is why I am asking.’

‘No rules against it that I know of, but you are going to need your fighters to defend your ships and to attack the enemy.’

‘Why?’

‘Uh! Explain, Human.’

‘Our forces are of equal strength. Therefore one of our ships can quite easily defend itself against a ship of equal size indefinitely, with or without the fighters. You assholes simply play games, you have been doing this so long now you can’t see any other way,’ Douglas turned his attention to his grinning men.

‘I want scouting parties from every ship out there looking for a quick way through that asteroid field. This path leads round in a zigzagging circular fashion. The base is much nearer as the crow flies, straight across the field.’

He turned his attention back to Maka, ‘How long does this scenario normally last?’

‘About four hours.’

‘There is oxygen in that base?’

‘Of course.’

‘Fine, we land a platoon to secure the base. Engineers will prepare positions around the landing field. Our troops have oxygen for eight hours, so a couple of hours before-hand they slip out into those positions. They can leave heat generators to simulate occupation. Let the enemy see what they expect to see. The platoon should be enough to deal with any that manage to land. If we can’t find a shortcut through the field, we will make it a company of Marines.

‘If we do make it through, then we will set out fighters to assault the landing craft as they prepare to land on the asteroid. From there they can keep the troopship busy until the rest of us catch up. We do this the same way we blasted a hole through the Albany fleets, but with a little difference. This time we assault the ships. I want every one of them boarded. We concentrate our fire on one at a time, as it falls out of formation the ship nearest sends a boarding party to the far side of the ship. Once we have taken all of them, we can pursue the troopship. Once the landing craft have been taken care of, the fighters can keep it occupied until we arrive.’

Another huge fart vibrated through the room, ‘That’s not how it’s done,’ Maka growled.

‘I don’t give a shit about how it is done Colonel, it is how we are going to do it.’

He let out a strange howl, ‘I knew you Humans were going to be fun,’ an odd laugh followed it.

Chapter 4

Scout ships slid between the asteroids as the Captains watched and waited with nervous expectation. It was Commander Ian Black’s scouts that found the most direct route. They cut the time to the base by two hours. The entry point inside the asteroid field was half an hour in.

Plans were reworked. The following morning they waited in anticipation. When the signal was given, they moved to the edge of the asteroid field. They could clearly see the enemy ships hit the first zigzag and gave chase at the maximum speed they were allowed. The enemy ships picked a target and began to fire; their fighters began to harass. The Humans held their fire until they were at minimum range and selected the destroyer on the far right of the enemy group. They shot forward and surrounded the ship. A couple of broadsides was all it took to disable it.

Unseen from the rest of the enemy fleet, a couple of assault craft took off and attached themselves to the enemy ship. Marines stormed aboard; their enemy was taken completely unawares. The other enemy ships pulled in closer to prevent the Humans from doing the same thing again, but not before another of their number had fallen to the same manoeuvre. Douglas rotated his ships, keeping a watchful eye on the damage they were taking, making sure none of them took the brunt of the enemy counter fire.

Now they began to pick off the destroyers with their forward firing cannons, which they had more of. The enemy fighters began to swarm, but they fell swiftly to the defensive fire of the Human ships. When they had reduced the enemy fighter formations to a quarter of their size; Douglas set his fighters loose. In the melee, twenty slipped away into the asteroid field. In the tight confines of the asteroid field, the Humans held the upper hand and soon swept aside the enemy fighters. Douglas recalled them. Within an hour the Humans had disabled and boarded all of the destroyers. It took almost another twenty minutes for the concentrated fire from all of their ships to disable the enemy battle cruiser.

Douglas gave the command and two of his destroyers went in pursuit of the troopship, while the rest docked with the enemy cruiser and stormed it. Their enemy put up a valiant fight but the Marines were in no mood to play games. They went in hard. When Douglas cross decked to the enemy battle cruiser, lines of bewildered students were lined up against the walls, their wrists bound behind them with thick white plastic cuffs. Here and there a bloody snout was testament to how hard they had fought in the corridors of their ship.

Douglas stepped onto the bridge. Despite the differences in race, he could see that the crew were all quite young. These were youngsters who had finished training with their own races and volunteered as individuals to join the Federation. Federation One was where they were moulded together with others of their ilk into a very formidable fighting force.

The Captain was of a race that Douglas had never met before. He stood from his fighting chair in response to the Marines snapping to attention at Douglas’s arrival.

‘You must be my adversary.’

‘Captain Douglas McKinnon at your service.’

‘Acting Captain, Otan Valachean.’

‘What race?’

‘Catatarac.’

‘I have heard of your race. You are the first I have met.’

‘My father warned me about you Humans, I should have listened properly.’

‘Is your father a soldier?’

‘He is Admiral Valachean of the great Catatarac fleet.’

‘Ah! Yes, I know of Admiral Valachean from Admiral Baxter. He took a great liking to your father.’

‘He also talks about Admiral Baxter with great admiration.’

‘It is a small galaxy.’

‘Indeed. Could you?’ He held up his bound hands. McKinnon motioned to a Marine, who stepped forward and cut off the plastic ties with a bayonet. ‘Thank you,’ he rubbed his wrists. ‘I have to congratulate you Captain. However, you are still going to lose the battle.’

‘How so?’

‘You cannot catch the troopship. The point is to stop the landings. The moment one of my troops sets foot inside the outpost, we win.’

‘Two points young Valachean: even if your troops did take the outpost in a real situation, they have now no back up. They would only hold it for a few minutes at most. Point two, do you really think I hadn’t considered that? Half the point of this exercise is to press your troopship into panicking. With any luck, they will be in so much of a hurry they won’t check the area outside the outpost too closely.’

‘You have troops outside the outpost!’

‘They would be no damn good inside it, would they?’

Otan’s head dropped, he knew then he had been completely outwitted.

‘Do you have a lot of troops at the landing site?’

‘Not really, they are only there in case any of the landing craft get past the fighters I sent through the asteroids to cut off the ship.’

‘I hope one day you become a Federation officer Captain. I would be honoured to serve alongside you.’

‘Don’t think too much of it. I have been doing this a very long time, and served under some of the best.’

‘There are many that have underestimated you and your people Captain. It now becomes much clearer how you managed to beat the Albany.’

Commander John Logan and Commander Alfie Lloyd sat with their squadrons behind a couple of massive asteroids. Their craft were powered down to minimum output. They rested in the shadows of the huge boulders and watched the troopship arrive. A number of lights flashed from its weapons.

Their radios crackled to life, ‘Command Umpire Zero Nine. The troopship has bombarded the outpost and destroyed all life within it. Anyone within the outpost should now lie down and take no further part in the exercise.’

Logan smiled to himself. The doors of the troopship began to open. He clicked his microphone rapidly a number of times and powered up his ship. Landing craft tumbled from the belly of the troopship. Logan’s ship reached full power, and he knew they wouldn’t go undetected for much longer.

He waited until the landing craft were half-way to the asteroid.

‘All stations attack your assigned targets. Go Go Go!’

Alfie’s squadron shot towards the troopship; with its shields down to disgorge the troops, it was little more than a sitting target. The whole squadron fired at once and the ship’s shields, now beginning to power up, collapsed. Some of the ship’s auto defences struck out at Alfie’s fighters; a couple were hit, but not destroyed.

Logan’s squadron didn’t have such an easy time of it. The landing ships took evading action and one actually managed to touch down on the asteroid. As the troops made a beeline for the structure, Marines popped up out of the holes they were hiding in. Stone slabs they were using as top cover were tossed aside, and the Marines cut down the invaders. Their initial headlong charge was halted, and they began to mill about in confusion. When they were all down, the Marines dropped back into their trenches.

A single Modloch recruit wandered over to one of the trenches. The equipment he was wearing flashed blue to indicate that he had been killed. A Marine Sergeant squinted up at him and the Modloch passed down a round disc with a small sucker on the end, the Marine obligated and stuck it to the side of his helmet.

‘What can I do for you?’ The Sergeant asked.

‘Just checking to see if any of you were hit in the bombardment.’

‘I thought the weapons were neutralised when you are hit?’ He stood back and raised his arms to shoulder length.

‘They are supposed to be. Some people have been known to fiddle with them.’

‘Wouldn’t know where to start pal.’

‘May I look at those lids?’

‘Help yourself.’

The Modloch flipped one over and quickly saw how it was done.

‘This is very neat. I’m glad you never used this on us.’

‘You would be dead if we had, but our engineers removed the rock cutting tools when they left. The umpire that is with us checked three times.’

The young Modloch let out a long sigh, ‘A few weeks ago we were laughing at you lot trying to figure out how to use a water dispenser.’

‘You aren’t laughing now, are you son?’

‘No, none of us are,’ he cocked his head to the side. ‘That’s the exercise over. We are being recalled.’

A few seconds later the Marine received the same call. He jumped out of the hole. ‘Put the lids back on these holes lads, then get to the assembly area.’

The Sergeant gave the Modloch back the communicator, and after watching them put the lids back on the trenches that had been cut out of solid rock, he re-joined the rest of his platoon.

Chapter 5

‘Sit down Colonel, you are making me nervous,’ Man Dei sat down at the Emperor’s request. Emperor Ne´ Langus was reading the combat reports for the second time. He eventually put it down.

‘Fascinating, isn’t it?’

‘Well they can fight Sir, they have brilliant tactical awareness; unfortunately that’s about it.’

‘I see you have been on the brink of sending them home a few times.’

‘They are more of a danger to us than they are to any potential enemy. We are having a lot of problems making them understand even some of the basic concepts.’

‘Yes that is a worry. What about these new navigators?’

‘I tested them thoroughly. They did very well. It would seem that they are beginning to catch up. They aren’t anywhere near fleet standard yet Sir, but I am confident they will get there.’

‘Their pilots?’

‘Going through the standard fleet certifications now. Their flying is fine, it is just the theory we are having problems with.’

‘I think we need to deal with this at a grass roots level.’

‘How Sir? We can’t send instructors through the barrier.’

‘That is the problem isn’t it? I will put in a request for one of their training vessels to come to us. Maybe we can work together. Teach their instructors to teach their people to do it properly from the beginning. They can then return to their own solar system and become a core of new learning.’

‘That’s a good idea Sir. We should have them send their best.’

‘I will get in touch with the Human President. Send a request. How did the outgoing recruits take their beating?’

‘I think most of them were in shock. I did get a request from two of the recruits to be posted to a Human squadron though.’

Emperor Ne´ Langus laughed aloud, ‘Recruits of note?’

‘A Modloch and a Catatarac.’

The Emperor picked up his tablet and after a second was looking at the names of the recruits, ‘Let me guess: Darrick’s nephew and Admiral Valachean’s whelp.’

‘As always Sir, you are correct.’

‘It wasn’t hard to work out. The two top recruits, the best we have had in years. They would see the value in the Human tactics.’

‘They seemed to be inspired.’

‘As they should. The Humans have brought a whole new dimension to our understanding of tactics.’

‘How are you finding the command element Sir?’

‘Exceptional people. Their only drawback is their lack of understanding about space. That we can teach.’

‘Is it true that their only experience before was in ships on their oceans?’

‘Absolutely true. Let me show you something,’ the Emperor put on a pair of gloves then took out a large book from a drawer. ‘Come round here.’

The book was leather bound and closed with a clasp, ‘This was a gift from Admiral Baxter, to help better understand the tactics they have been taught.’

‘So that is a real book!’

‘He even had it translated. Isn’t it a wonder?’

‘Something to be treasured Sir.’

‘Indeed. The tactics they teach go back to days of wooden boats that sailed with the wind.’

They spent almost an hour discussing the tactics that they saw and comparing them to fleet actions of the day. With great regret to both, the Emperor finally put the book away.

‘I'm afraid my time is now short Colonel. I saw your father last week, he sends his regards. He is well, as is your mother.’

‘That’s nice to hear Sir.’

‘Do the Humans still believe that he died invading their solar system?’

‘They do, it is quite amusing. It really cranks up the pressure on them. I have given them Colonel Maka Mahab.’

‘Old Maka! He will be in his element with the Humans.’

‘I have never seen him so happy.’

They both laughed. ‘What about those the Humans put in the infirmary?’

‘Most have recovered well. I reviewed everything that happened; I don’t believe the Humans used excessive force. Most became casualties after being shot and refusing to give in.’

‘You mean they charged the Humans?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Shouldn’t you discipline them?’

‘I truly think lessons have been learned Sir.’

‘Then I look forward to your next report.’

Man Dei got up and left.

Chapter 6

Captain Jean Wilson leaned back with her elbows on the console behind her. Her eyes tried to see the cloud-like wisps on the view screens in front of her; every one of them was active. Her impressive chest was pushed out in front of her but for once the men on the bridge had other things on their mind.

‘Ma’am, five minutes until we are across the barrier.’

She stood up straight, ‘Thank you Nav Commander Black, action stations.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

Klaxons sounded throughout the ship. Men and women ran to their action stations. Jean wandered back to her chair.

A few minutes later Commander Black got back to her, ‘The ship is secure Captain, all hands are at battle stations.’

She checked her watch, ‘Well done Commander, they are on their toes today.’

‘It isn’t every day they get to play in a new part of the galaxy.’

‘That is true. Radar?’

‘Still fuzzy Ma’am, clearing up a little though. I think I do have a number of ships but it is hard to make out.’

‘Transfer all your data to guns. Target the lead or central ship as soon as we break clear. Comms, have all channels open.’

‘Yes Ma’am, all open and I am monitoring them.’

‘Good.’

A minute later the ship broke clear of the barrier. They were faced with a battle cruiser and its complement of destroyers.

‘Guns Ma’am, we are targeting the battle cruiser, they have their shields down.’

‘Stand by.’

‘Ma’am, we are getting a signal. Video and audio.’

‘Put it on screen. Let’s see what these buggers actually look like,’ There were a few sniggers and Jean struggled to keep the smile off her face. A strange looking creature appeared.

‘Are you the Sir William Wallace?’

‘Identify yourself.’

The creature leaned forward, ‘Are you a female?’

‘I am.’

He leaned back, ‘I want to speak to your Captain.’

‘I am the Captain.’

‘This is no laughing matter female, do you have a senior officer?’

‘I have many senior officers, but not on board. Now identify yourself, or I am going to blow you and your ship clear across to the other side of the galaxy.’

The alien was obviously in shock, ‘Send our recognition signal,’ he snapped at someone.

‘Confirmed Ma’am, they are our escort.’

‘Commander, stand down from action stations,’ she turned her attention back to the creature on screen. ‘Where would you like us to take up station?’

He still seemed unsure, ‘Are you able to access your formation system?’

‘Of course.’

‘Then I will send the details to your navcon.’

‘Please do,’ she gave a nod and the screen went blank. She caught the eye of some of her female staff, and could tell that they weren’t amused by their reception either.

Her navigator began receiving instructions, ‘Details are coming in now Ma’am.’

‘In that case the ship is now in your hands.’

‘Aye aye Ma’am. I am taking control of the ship now. Transferring navigational control to the lead ship. On my mark, prepare to jump to light speed. Three, two, one, mark. We are now at light speed, and have taken up position behind and to the left of the battle cruiser.’

‘Thank you Nav. Is it me or did that gentleman forget to introduce himself?’

‘I do believe he forgot Ma’am.’

‘How rude.’

The tension broken, her bridge crew began to laugh.

‘What is our ETA Nav?’

‘Just a regular February back on earth Ma’am.’

‘Twenty-eight days at full lightspeed.’

‘We aren’t traveling at full lightspeed Ma’am, about two thirds of our top speed.’

‘Are we traveling at their top speed?’

‘I believe so Ma’am.’

‘Interesting. I think it is going to be a long twenty-eight days.’

Jean hadn’t been wrong. Tedium had set into the normally busy ship by the time they approached the station. With the training program for her pilots at a standstill, she had to invent extra classes and events to keep them occupied. She gave them some basic infantry training, and then pitched teams against each other in “light battles” throughout the ship. The recruits thought it was a hoot and the day before they arrived at Federation One a cup and medals were awarded to the winning team.

Jean had the crew cleaning the ship until it sparkled like a new top. She inspected every millimetre of her ship personally. An hour before their arrival at Federation One, Jean changed into a clean uniform.

Her personal steward was looking a little worried.

‘What’s wrong Mary?’

‘Wouldn’t you be better getting into a formal uniform Ma’am?’

‘We did discuss it, didn’t we? However, I can’t wear my pistol with regulation dress uniform.’

‘Is that a bad thing Ma’am?’

‘So far on this journey not a single Captain, of any of the ships escorting us, has tried to contact us. We know they are in regular contact with each other. Don’t you think that is a little strange Mary?’

‘I suppose so Ma’am, I never really thought about it. They are aliens though.’

‘After our initial greeting, I was not impressed. The information pack we got from our forces over here states quite clearly that there is very little equality between the sexes. They don’t like females on fighting ships.’

‘So what are you going to do Ma’am?’

‘I am going to play it by ear. However, it will be comforting to have Wee Charlie by my side.’

Mary sniggered, ‘Do you think you might meet big Charlie now you are both on the same side of the barrier Ma’am?’

Jean’s eyes unfocused for a moment, ‘You never know Mary. How strange is it that one of the most intriguing men I have ever met in my life, is also one of the most inaccessible?’

‘He kinda gave me the creeps. I mean, he was a robot; a blind robot.’

Jean thought it over, ‘I suppose it was kind of strange. You never saw him after he had recovered though, did you?’

‘No Ma’am.’

‘He looked so ordinary. If I had met him in a bar, I probably wouldn’t have looked at him twice.’

‘Then what makes him so interesting?’

‘I find that hard to explain. The fact that he knew who I was seriously impressed me.’

‘He is Scottish Ma’am, and male.’

Jean smiled, ‘It wasn’t that. It was the fact that he had memorised one of my speeches, and the fact that it obviously meant something to him. He must have seen it when he was quite young, we are after all almost the same age. It was something I had poured my heart into, and I believe it touched him.’

‘Still, he is only a Sergeant.’

‘I haven’t told you have I?’

‘What Ma’am?’

‘He has been promoted to the rank of Captain.’

‘No! When did that happen?’

‘Months ago. It was only acting to begin with, but he has since been told that it is now permeant. He had to return to Earth to do an officer’s training course.’

‘Oh wow. May I ask how you know this Ma’am?’

‘We correspond.’

‘By email.’

‘No you busy body, by mail.’

‘Seriously Ma’am! There is electronic mail.’

‘Of course there is.’ She fixed Mary with a gaze, ‘We are not in a relationship Mary. We are simply friends. We have no need for daily contact,’ she looked up, ‘You know, it is so nice to receive a real letter.’

Mary frowned, ‘I wonder what that is like. I have never received a hand written letter.’

‘My Father used to write real letters to me. I even have a few from my mother.’

‘Does he profess his love and admiration for you Ma’am?’

‘Don’t be an idiot Mary. He simply writes about his daily life. He didn’t like the officer’s training course one little bit; he almost mutinied so he could go home for the weekend and visit his parents.’

‘You mean an old girlfriend or two.’

‘That is something he has never mentioned in any of his letters. It would be none of my business anyway.’

‘He could have a girlfriend on board his ship.’

‘I think he would have mentioned it.’

‘Or maybe he is trying to play the field.’

Jean sighed, ‘If he was trying to play the field, his letters would have a romantic overture to them.’

Mary shook her head, ‘You mean there isn’t even the slightest romantic remark?’

‘Not even a suggestion. He already told me that I wasn’t his type.’

‘Then why the hell does he bother to write!’

‘I think he likes writing, and I know he admires me. I am his hero and also his saviour.’

‘You mean he writes to you like you were one of his buddies?’

‘Not quite, he is very respectful.’

‘How often?’

‘About once a month. I just received the last letter a few days before we left. I am leaving my reply until we reach Federation One. I will send it out in the first mail packet that comes along.’

‘Is it worth it Ma’am?’

‘I think so, I enjoy the correspondence. His letters take my mind off the daily grind for a few hours anyway.’

‘A few hours Ma’am?’

‘You haven’t seen one of Charlie’s letters, have you Mary?’

‘No Ma’am.’

Jean went into a locker and took out a locked metal chest. She opened it and took out a notepad.

‘This is what Charlie sends me.’

It took Mary a moment to comprehend what she was seeing.

‘Wait, he fills that!’

Jean flicked the pages then put it back, ‘A fifty page notepad, filled front to back, then back to front.’

‘Seriously Ma’am, a hundred pages? Wow!’

‘It is quite impressive, isn’t it?’

‘Any man who can actually write a hundred pages to a woman must have it bad.’

‘Do you think so?’

‘I get one page emails from my boyfriend. In a month they don’t add up to a hundred pages, and we are supposed to be serious. Do you write as much back?’

‘Not quite as much; I don’t really have the time, but I make an effort.’

Mary held up the gun belt, ‘Will I help you strap on Wee Charlie?’

‘I can handle Wee Charlie all on my own thank you.’

They both had a little giggle and Jean strapped on the Desert Eagle. Now she felt complete.

Chapter 7

‘Sir William Wallace, this is Federation One. Stop at the inner marker and complete a manual docking.’

‘Roger that Federation One, we are approaching the inner marker now.’ The operator waited until the ship had come to a complete halt and he got the nod from the Captain, ‘Federation One, this is the Sir William Wallace, we are now at a halt at the inner marker. Requesting permission to dock.’

‘Permission granted.’

Jean leaned forward, ‘Mr Cruickshank, if you make an arse of this, I will keelhaul you naked. I will tie one rope round your neck and the other around those peanuts you call testicles.’

Lieutenant Cruickshank laughed as hard as the rest of the bridge crew, ‘Aye aye, Ma’am.’

He began to do his thing, ‘I am taking her in, prepare to carry out docking procedures on my command.’

On board Federation One, the radio man looked back over his shoulder at his superior, ‘This is new. Do you think they can do it Sir?’

His superior shrugged, ‘I have no idea.’

‘Should we ask if the pilot is accredited?’

‘Actually, that might be a good idea.’

The operator turned back, ‘It’s too late Sir, they have already began docking procedures.’

His companion began to report, ‘So far so good Sir, they are following procedures.’

The Commander made a decision, ‘Then let them continue. It’s on them now.’

The Sir William Wallace began to glide towards the massive space station. Everyone on board the station was watching, and those on board the ship could feel the tension. Cruickshank watched his thrusters and speed like a hawk. Too little and they would simply bounce off, or not reach the docking gear. Too fast and the station’s automated defence systems would kick in and thrust the Sir William Wallace back out into space.

They slid into the docking bay with exactly the right amount of thrust to push the docking gear back into its reset position. Cruickshank killed his thrusters and the ship came to a stop.

‘We’re in Ma’am.’

‘Complete docking procedures,’ Jean ordered.

‘Aye aye,’ her crew responded.

Within two minutes the procedures were complete.

On board the station the operator sat back with a sigh, ‘The Sir William Wallace has completed docking procedures Sir. No problems, no errors, no faults; as good a docking as I have ever seen.’

‘Tell them well done from me.’

‘Yes Sir.’

On board the Sir William Wallace, the comms officer reported the congratulations to the Captain.

‘Well done Mr Cruickshank. It would seem a hundred hours on simulators wasn’t a waste of time after all.’

‘Thank you Ma’am.’

Jean felt the tension ease a little, but not for long. Her security officer almost shouted at her.

‘Ma’am, we have been boarded by a dozen people, they are heading for the bridge.’

‘How did they get on board?’

‘Station override Ma’am.’

‘They can do that?’

‘It would appear so.’

‘All bridge personnel arm yourself. Have an armed squad come to the bridge.’

Commander Black unlocked a cabinet and the crew grabbed a pistol and a few magazines each. They were waiting for Man Dei and his assembled operators as they reached the bridge. A group of heavily armed Royal Marines were right behind them. Before Man Dei could utter a word, he found himself face down on the floor. His hands were wrenched behind his back and plastic ties snapped tight.

As the noise subsided, Man Dei’s head cleared a little.

‘What is the meaning of this!’ He shouted.

His eyes rolled upwards as a pair of boots appeared beside his head. He couldn’t see the woman’s face until she leaned over.

‘I was going to ask you the same thing.’

‘I am a Federation officer! To detain me, even point weapons at me, is a federal offence.’

‘You have a damn cheek coming aboard my ship and making demands.’

‘Stupid female, get your Captain!’ Man Dei felt a cold shiver at the sight of the large pistol as it slid out of the leather sheath and pressed into his head just below his ear.

‘I am the Captain of this ship. I am not a Federation officer, and this is not a Federation ship. I have the right under our laws to detain and even shoot you for what you have just done. You will ask for permission before coming aboard this ship. If you wish to see me, make an appointment through proper channels.’

‘These people are operators who are here to help you dock your ship properly.’

‘The ship has been docked properly and is secure.’

Just then his radio came to life, ‘Colonel Man Dei, the Earth ship has successfully completed a manual docking and is secure.’

His eyes closed for a second, ‘May I answer that?’

‘You may answer that off my ship,’ Jean stood. ‘Get them off my ship.’

Man Dei had never suffered the humiliation of being dragged by his legs before. The Marines were not gentle. He managed to hide his indignity, unlike many of his operators who howled with indignation and fear. At length a sharp knife cut their bonds and the docking port slid closed behind them.

Man Dei’s immediate superior observed the Colonel over the rim of a large drink as he made his report. When Man Dei finally finished, he put down the drink.

‘You have put me in a very awkward position Colonel. I know your intentions were good, however, they are not part of the Federation forces. You must treat them with the same dignity as you would any other visiting ship. The fact that the Federation specifically requested their presence has also exacerbated the problem.’

‘They treated us like animals.’

‘The Captain sent over their articles. She could have detained you or even shot you as intruders. Something she fully intends to do if you ever set foot on her ship again.’

‘How the hell can I do my job if I can’t go on board the Human ship?’

‘You should have thought of that before you went barging onboard Colonel. Don’t worry, you aren’t the only one who can ascertain the Humans’ abilities.’

‘My orders come straight from the top Sir.’

‘I am well aware of the Emperor’s orders regarding the Humans. This time however, the pair of you have been outmanoeuvred; by a female too.’

‘It is disgusting.’

‘Close to thirty per cent of the Human forces are female, Colonel. They exist in almost every department throughout their forces, and in every branch. We will simply have to adapt.’

‘Have you no fear that this will spread amongst the other races Sir?’

‘A little I suppose, but you have to remember I am a subject of Queen Wiola Maleck. She isn’t the first Queen to command the Gishia race.’

‘You might be comfortable with that Sir, but I am not, and neither are most of the other races.’

‘That is your problem Colonel. I am aware that the Emperor is looking to create an incident that will challenge their leadership. I would tread carefully with this one if I were you.’

Man Dei calmed down a little, ‘Still, she would be a perfect subject to challenge.’

‘With one foot in the Federation and one foot out, you are correct Colonel; therein lies the perfect candidate for a little insurrection. I would, however, ask you to use extreme caution while dealing with this female; they are unpredictable. Have you read her bio?’

‘No Sir.’

‘You should do. She did not gain promotion through the normal routes. She was a skilled fighter pilot quickly promoted to squadron leader, then Commander of air tactics for her country, then she was promoted to Captain of her own ship when the war with your mother race broke out. Her and her ship fought with distinction during that war, so much so that they asked her to turn her ship into a training vessel. She accepted. Now her recruits are much sought after. Those she trains have a track record of gaining promotion faster. Her crew, and most of her training staff, are the original crew that fought with her during the war. They are fiercely loyal.’

‘It is hard to believe that a female of any race could accomplish so much.’

‘Indeed, so be careful. The rumour is that the cannon she wears on her hip can knock a hole in your head you could shove your fist into.’

‘It is called a Desert Eagle. I asked some of our Humans if they had any. They only had one in the whole fleet, but took great delight in showing me how big a hole it made.’

‘Big.’

‘Scary rather than big Sir. It simply obliterated anything they hit.’

‘I will assume they heard about the incident then.’

‘I believe they did, and took much fun from showing me just how lethal the weapon is.’

‘I have no doubt about that. Now the Humans have managed to manually dock their ship successfully, without an accredited pilot. To ascertain just how advanced this particular training crew are I am going to give them the final exams. We will know within seven days where they are weak, and hopefully begin to bring their instructors up to the required levels quite quickly. I will have a different department handle it.’

‘Yes Sir,’ Man Dei knew he was being dismissed and stood.

‘Don’t worry Colonel, I will keep you in the loop.’

‘I appreciate that Sir.’

Chapter 8

Commander John Logan couldn’t help the huge grin that split his face. He saluted crisply.

‘Captain Wilson, a pleasure to see you again.’

Jean smiled and returned the salute, ‘Commander Logan, a pleasure to make your acquaintance again.’

‘I hear you taught Mandy a lesson he won’t forget in a hurry. Thank you, from all of us.’

It took her a moment, ‘Ah! Colonel Man Dei. I believe he isn’t very happy about the treatment he received at the hands of my crew.’

‘Did they really drag him out by his feet?’

‘They most certainly did. I have heard quite a few stories about this particular Albany officer. Is he taking it out on all of you?’

‘He sure is Captain, but hell, it’s worth it.’

‘I believe the scores of my ship’s company will be displayed here shortly?’ Jean looked around. It was a fairly sterile room with big screens. Empty chairs and tables abounded, however the chairs were almost twice the size that any Human would require.

‘Have you used these screens before?’

‘No I haven’t.’

‘Then let me show you.’

‘Please, I would appreciate that.’

Logan showed her how to use the screens. It wasn’t long before the scores of her crew began to appear.

Logan stood with her, ‘I am seriously impressed.’

Jean smiled, ‘Thank you. If I am reading this correctly, then they have done better than I had hoped for.’

‘Every one of your pilots have achieved accreditation on the first try. That is exceptional. Wow! Who is this guy?’

‘Lieutenant Cunningham, my top pilot. He took the ship in.’

‘Manual docking?’

‘Yes.’

‘We had to be hauled in automatically.’

‘I heard, but you must realise that Captain McKinnon and I once served together. He keeps me updated with everything.’

Logan grinned a little lopsidedly at her, ‘So you already know all the scuttlebutt.’

‘I have been implementing his directions from the moment I received them.’

‘Wait! Before you knew you would be coming here?’

‘Long before. It is my job to train people to Federation standards after all.’

‘Of course it is, and your people are great too.’

‘I am very lucky Commander. Anytime something new comes in, they see it as a challenge, and throw themselves at it.’

He looked down, ‘I see you got a really nice pistol as well.’

‘A gift from a gentleman.’

Logan’s eyebrows shot up, ‘And you didn’t send it to his wife!’

Jean laughed, ‘It wasn’t like that; he is also a single gentleman.’

Logan’s face screwed up a little, ‘It still doesn’t seem like you, and why the hell would he give you a cannon?’

‘It was a thank you for saving his life. As for the cannon, this particular gentleman not only knew who I was, he also knew I was a champion pistol shot in my younger days.’

Logan felt himself cringe a little inside, ‘Must be a Scot then.’

‘He is actually. I think I was most impressed when he realised he was on my ship.’

‘Yeah, I think most of those Scots guys would know you on sight.’

‘He was actually rendered blind at the time. Long story, and it is classified.’

‘Intriguing… is he still blind?’

‘No, it was only temporary.’

‘Must be an officer.’

‘Is now, but he was only a Sergeant at the time.’

‘You seeing this guy?’

‘No, but we keep in touch.’

‘I can’t see a Sergeant being able to afford a pistol and a rig like that.’

‘A lady doesn’t ask.’

‘Tooled leather, top rig. That baby would stop a Modloch in its tracks.’

‘I think that was his purpose in buying it. He believed that the pistols we were issued with would barely stop a fly in this part of the galaxy.’

‘Alfie would agree with that. He bought one himself the last time we were at home.’

Jean smiled, ‘You mean Commander Lloyd?’

‘Yup, we are still together.’

‘Please pass on my regards. Is he doing well?’

‘Alfie and myself are both now accredited fighter pilots to Federation standards. They have moved us on to freighter piloting, then from there we will be moved on to destroyers and finally battleships. I find it hard to believe this Cunningham guy has achieved all of that in a week.’

‘They are now putting him on the instructor programme. He is leaving in a few days’ time to another training facility.’

‘How long?’

‘I think it translates to a couple of Earth months.’

‘What about testing?’

Jean shook her head, ‘That will be done here. That is part of Federation One’s job: to access all new ships and crews acceded to the Federation, to bring them up to speed if need be, before deployment.’

Logan nodded absentmindedly, ‘I hear it is only meant to be a routine thing.’

‘We have certainly thrown a spanner into the works.’

Logan burst out laughing, ‘We certainly have. What about your engineers?’

Jean shook her head, ‘My guys are better than most, but still nowhere near Federation standard.’

‘Where is the big problem?’

‘Their base mathematics is different. They do have a base ten system, which makes the basic maths fairly standard, but of course all their mathematical symbols are completely different. There are huge discussions all over Earth at the moment in mathematical circles about adopting the galactic standard.’

‘We are going to have to.’

‘Of course. Right now they are trying to find parallels with ours, discover the correct alien symbols for functions. I believe they are going to begin printing double symbols so our children will know at a glance if it is multiplication, addition, or any other function. The Modloch Royal Society of Mathematics has invited one hundred Human mathematicians to study there. They want to work together to fix the problem and find the parallels.’

‘That’s a good idea, I hadn’t heard.’

‘We need to do something desperately.’

The door slid open and Colonel Man Dei stepped into the room. He stopped at the sight of Jean, one of his eyes swept down.

‘It is illegal to walk about a Federation station armed, Captain.’

‘Not for visitors Colonel, or guests,’ Jean smiled, ‘And even if it was, I would still wear it. Your continued harassment of Human females is well noted; as is that of many of your galactic friends. The women from my ship are all armed and ordered to shoot anyone who tries to get physical with them.’

‘If you kill a member of the Federation, or if any of your crew do, you will cause a major incident.’

‘They aren’t ordered to kill Colonel; simply incapacitate. Shooting a Human male’s balls off has always been very effective. I am quite sure the same thing goes for alien males. If that did not translate Colonel, ask Commander Logan here for a translation.’

Jean strode out of the room with her head held high.

‘Do you wish for a translation Sir?’

‘It translated well enough Commander.’

‘She meant it too.’

‘I am well aware of that,’ he turned to the screen and scanned it, ‘You have passed. On to the next phase then.’

Logan noticed there was no warmth or praise in his voice.

Chapter 9

The small team charged down the corridor side by side and came to a halt.

‘It is a dead end Sir.’

The black-suited Modloch slapped the trooper on top of his helmet, ‘I noticed. Face back the way we came and be ready for anything; Humans have a habit of sneaking up on you when you least expect it.’

They were all well aware of that. A feminine voice was conducting the operation. Captain Veleck wasn’t sure if he liked it or not. Her voice came over their comms link.

‘All stations on board the Boolean freighter; debris from a fighter is tumbling towards the port side of the freighter.’

Veleck ignored her voice and took out the ship’s layout. A loud bang was heard, then the floor beneath them began to jump. A scraping noise followed. When it passed a strange high pitched squealing could be heard. It began to get louder.

‘What the hell is that?’ Asked one of his squad.

Veleck had one hand stretched out towards a handrail. He had been in the process of bracing himself when the floor had stopped shaking.

‘Sounds like escaping air,’ answered another. A strange green light began to glow and the significance struck Veleck.

‘Grab a rail!’ His fingers were just brushing it when the wall behind them disappeared. Screaming and howling, he and his men were sucked out of the ship. For a moment they thought they were dead. However, a net stopped their exodus into space.

‘Team Three Bravo, you have been eliminated. Please follow the lights on the outside of the ship to the airlock please.’

Struggling free of the netting, the team made their way to the hull of the ship and followed the lights. They appeared back inside the ship at their starting point. The Commander ordered the removal of their helmets.

The Human instructor stepped forward, ‘Well done, you are all dead.’

‘I thought I was,’ answered one of them and all of a sudden they spontaneously burst out laughing.

Captain Veleck stepped forward, ‘That was good Captain, very realistic. I almost shat myself when that wall gave way.’

The Human laughed, ‘I know the feeling. The first time it happens, it always takes you by surprise. The only way to proceeded is to either catch a rail until the pressure equalises, or stop yourself before you hit the net and make your way back inside.’

‘Can we go back in?’

‘No Sir, I am afraid not. You are dead, out of the scenario, but this one should finish in about half an hour. There will be a debriefing and then a second assault. You can rest in the recreation room or go upstairs and practice in the CQB range.’

‘What is that?’

‘Close Quarter Battle simulation. You go through a scenario where you are cut off from the rest of your group and have to fight your way back.’

‘On your own!’

‘Yes of course. You walk through the range shooting pop-up targets.’

‘Well I for one have no need for refreshments. I will be going upstairs.’

The Captain pointed towards the elevators, ‘Over there Sir.’ He picked up a card with the Human letters “CQB” on it, ‘Select this.’

‘I see it, thank you Captain,’ he turned away and was followed by his team.

They had just left when Jean made an appearance.

‘Captain McIntosh.’

‘Ma’am.’

‘How are things proceeding?’

‘Our alien visitors seem to be having a lot of fun. That’s the first lot to be blown out, they’re heading to the CQB range.’

‘How did they take it?’

‘They thought it was a hoot.’

‘That’s a relief.’

‘They had no idea what a CQB range was.’

‘That’s strange. Are they the first to head up?’

‘No Ma’am, a group went up fifteen minutes ago.’

‘I think I’ll see how they are getting on.’

Jean wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but she certainly didn’t think she would walk in to a full blown argument. The two senior NCOs in charge of the CQB snapped to attention and saluted.

‘What seems to be the problem gentlemen?’ Jean asked.

Captain Veleck snorted down at her, ‘What is it to you female?’

‘I am the senior officer on board this vessel, I am the Captain. That’s what it is to me.’

He snorted again, ‘So you are the only female Captain in the whole of the Federation. You are quite famous, but I am not impressed. It is well that you only command a training vessel, not a fighting vessel.’

Jean took a deep breath, trying hard not to take offence.

‘Let me correct you on something. I am not the only female Captain in the Federation, because I am not a part of the Federation. I belong to the Earth Defence Force. There are many female Captains in the Earth Defence Force. This isn’t just a training vessel, it is also a fighting vessel. Every member of this crew has fought in more than one engagement. They are this vessel’s core and are ready to fight and serve at a moment’s notice. The two men you are arguing with both took part in the fight for the Albany city ship. I would highly recommend that you listen to them,’ Jean turned and walked away.

Veleck stopped himself from snorting at her back. When the lift door closed he turned to the two men standing before him, ‘Is that true?’

‘All of it,’ answered the English warrant officer, originally from the Green Jackets, ‘The Captain herself is a celebrated fighter ace. We would appreciate it if you treated her with a little more respect in future Sir.’

‘Aye,’ added the short Scotsman at his elbow, ‘There isn’t a man or woman on board this ship that wouldn’t follow her into the fires of hell itself.’

‘Praise indeed for a Captain. How was the battle for the city ship?’

‘Brutal,’ answered the Englishman.

‘Then let us proceed. We are not used to fighting individually.’

‘We understand that Sir. This scenario takes place inside a battle cruiser. Your unit has been cut off, and the enemy have blocked your communications. Your Commander has noticed that the enemy are gathering reinforcements in your area and he needs to get a communique back to your command post for reinforcements. The fighting is desperate and he can only afford to send one soldier. That is you. You have to attempt to fight back through a section of the ship that has already been fought through. Some of the enemy have been able to reoccupy this area, but are believed not to be in too great a number.’

Veleck checked his weapon, ‘Then I shall go first.’

‘Follow me Sir, I will act as your safety officer during this exercise. If I ask you to stop, then please do so. Make your weapon safe and rest until I give you further orders. Are you ready?’

‘I am ready.’

The Englishman turned away, ‘Then follow me to the start point if you please.’

Just then another team appeared. ‘Hey Veleck.’

Veleck paused, ‘Jooon, have you done this?’

‘Just finished, I was only killed a dozen times, you are going to love it,’ his friend laughed.

Reassured, Veleck followed.

Chapter 10

Veleck stood rigid in front of Emperor Ne´ Langus. Ne´ indicated the chair opposite.

‘Please sit Captain,’ Veleck obeyed. Ne´ read through the tablet again, ‘Your report is quite detailed, by far the best on the Human training methods.’

‘Thank you Sire, you do me a great honour.’

‘You have been a Federation officer for years now; you have fought in a number of battles. How do you think we would fare against a Human force? Please, none of your Modloch bluster.’

‘We would be slaughtered, especially in ship-to-ship combat.’

‘That is very candid of you.’

‘We Modloch are famous for our bluster Sire, but this situation transcends that form of crap.’

‘Would you recommend their form of training to the rest of the Federation?’

‘May I continue to be candid Sire?’

‘Please do Captain, it would make a pleasant change from the normal shit I hear on a daily basis.’

Veleck couldn’t help but laugh out loud, ‘Then in my opinion Sire, we would be fools not to. The Federation is made up of many different species, some are aggressive, many are not. We are herbivores, very few of our species knew violence before we took to the stars. The Humans are different, they are natural born hunters, predators. Our natural instincts do not serve us well against them. The tactics we have garnered over thousands of generations plays straight into their hands.’

‘I have read a thousand accounts of their battle on the Albany city ship. The Albany are Federation trained, they use the same tactics as we all do. The casualty rates were hundreds to one.’

‘It doesn’t surprise me Sire. From talking to the Humans, they stopped using the kind of tactics that we use hundreds of years ago. They will not stand in line, they will hide behind objects and shoot you from there. There may be no honour in it, but it is extremely effective.’

‘We are having a lot of problems with the Human Marines,’ Ne´ explained, ‘They treat our training as a form of joke, refusing to partake in some of it. It isn’t the officers either. They at least try to conform, it is their rank and file.’

‘Mutiny Sire?’

‘No, not really, they simply point out the tactics are useless and refuse to get into the practice of training the wrong way. One Human officer stated that they don’t mind putting their lives on the line if they know that their officers are competent, but they will not sell their lives needlessly.’

‘A strange concept for the rank and file Sire.’

‘I am still trying to wrap my mind around the concept Captain. I may have taken harsh action if I hadn’t known that all are veterans of the battle for the city ship.’

‘You mean they are more experienced than the Federation officers that were trying to train them Sire?’

‘Exactly Captain. Tell me, did you enjoy the training?’

‘Some of it was terrifying Sire, even though we were in no real danger. However, much of it was fun, and gave a great sense of accomplishment afterwards. Yes I enjoyed it, and so did my troops.’

‘Effective?’

‘Very. You should grab that ship for the Federation Sire, train our Marines with their training methods.’

The Emperor’s eyes turned cold, ‘Do not presume to tell me what to do Captain.’

‘I apologise Sire, I did not mean to be so forthright. I simply thought that I had a good idea.’

‘It is a good idea Captain, but you aren’t the first to have it. We are in no position to demand that ship and its crew. The Humans are not yet full members of the Federation, as such, we do not have access to their training facilities. They are only here so we can assess their training methods.’

The Modloch Captain’s head cocked to the side, ‘I wonder what will happen if they aren’t admitted to the Federation. It will be a loss.’

The Emperor seemed amused, ‘It would be more than a loss Captain. If the Humans are excluded from the Federation, we may well find ourselves fighting them in the years to come.’

The expression of alarm that crossed the Captain’s face was more than the Emperor needed, ‘You may go Captain.’

Veleck hesitated, ‘Is that a real possibility Sire?’

‘Of course it is. Many races that have failed to gain entry to the Federation have ended up in conflict with us at one time or another. Why would the Humans be any different?’

‘No one can survive in their solar system Sire.’

‘Their solar system is untapped Captain. Unlimited resources. Their ships are top spec, built with the finest materials. Riches beyond your comprehension. The Albany have a way of surviving in their solar system, and your own Emperor has a whole planet of Modloch that can also survive in their solar system. We have been receiving complaints from the Humans about unmarked probes; hundreds of them, and even two mining drones have been sent to their system. Those are just the ones the Humans have caught. There are a lot of worlds out there hoping the Human’s bid fails. I wouldn’t even give it a year before we are at war with the Humans if it does so.’

‘I don’t think that would be a good thing for any of us Sire.’

‘Probably not Captain. Do you like them?’

‘I like their spirit Sire, though they are pretty damn ugly creatures, and small.’

The Emperor laughed, ‘I received a report that you insulted the ship’s female Captain.’

‘I did.’

‘How did she take it?’

‘Far better than my own would have taken it. She corrected my misconceptions and walked away.’

‘That was it?’

‘Almost. Her instructors ran us ragged after that. Far more so than anyone else, but we thoroughly enjoyed the experience, so it was a wasted gesture.’

‘So her people are loyal to her?’

‘That is the impression I got Sire. They seem to be very proud of her.’

‘Thank you Captain, that will be all.’

The Emperor was amused, only a Modloch could truly enjoy the hardship of the Human training program.

Chapter 11

The flight of fighters flew through the dark expanse of space. Commander Alfie Lloyd took a deep breath. The months had been long, but he and the other pilots had finally passed every test the Federation had thrown at them. The Marines had sailed through the Federation courses, but the problems had been in the engineering department and in the navigation. New navigators were reaching them now, ones the Federation could work with, and those on board the ships were being sent home to retrain.

The pilots in the meantime, had been drafted into Federation One’s defence force. Constant, around the clock patrols were used as an extra layer of protection for the premier training facility. A few weeks ago Alfie’s rank had been confirmed within the Federation, and he now had his own flight. There had been a little grumbling within the ranks, but it had been quashed. The rank system, nor the way in which these squadrons worked, was anything like the way they worked back on Earth.

His flight consisted of twenty-one ships. Currently they were split into groups of three and were spread out in a defensive cordon around the space station. Most found these routine patrols boring, but Alfie loved them. The view from the cockpit of the fighter was almost as good as if you were floating free in space. The heavenly bodies were majestic; this was why he had first become an astronaut.

‘Flight leader, Amar 3.’

Alfie snapped back to it, ‘Go ahead control.’

‘There are two ships coming into our space. They are supposed to be Earth ships carrying the Goodwill Ambassadors. They have been given coordinates fifteen minutes from the outer-marker: meet, greet, check and verify.’

The coordinates sprang up on his HUD. It only took him a second to upload them to his ship, then to his two companions.

‘We are on our way control.’

His eyes lingered on the HUD’s jump command. A few seconds later, all three ships jumped to the coordinates. Alfie felt a tingling beside his right ear, and his eyes flicked to the symbol that let him talk to his companions on a local net.

‘What’s happening Commander?’

‘A meet and greet, two Earth ships. Check them out, guide them home.’

‘They might eat us,’ sniffed his number three.

‘I might eat you if you don’t keep formation Frick.’

Frick howled with delight, ‘I hope you have a good sauce Commander.’

‘Sticky Texas Barbecue; just the sauce for you Frick.’

They both laughed.

‘Here they come,’ warned his number two.

Alfie just caught a glimpse of the ships on his radar before they appeared. The simplicity and beauty of the Builders’ design always took Alfie’s breath away. He initiated communications.

‘Earth Defence Force ships, please come to a halt for electronic inspection and verification.’

‘Knock yourself out,’ came the reply. The ships came to a halt. Alfie was grinning at the unusual reply, and initiated a visual call. The figure in the Captain’s chair cocked his head.

‘Good morning.’

‘Fit like?’

‘Eh?’

‘Traditional Scottish greeting, how are you?’

‘Fine, you aren’t Steven Gordon?’

‘Nope, I’m the bad boy who pulled extra duties. You’re a Human, and a Yank.’

‘Commander Alfie Lloyd at your service.’

‘Astronaut huh.’

‘Aren’t we all now?’

The man laughed, ‘You have a valid point Alfie; Captain Charlie Murison, at your service.’

‘Navy, Army or Airforce?’

‘Army.’

‘Scan is complete Charlie, you are free to proceed. What is it you are doing here?’

‘Pit stop.’

‘Sorry?’

‘Resupply.’

‘Got you. Proceed to the outer marker and receive docking instructions from the station. We will be escorting you in.’

‘Are you part of this Federation now Alfie?’

‘Yup, sure am buddy.’

‘How is it?’

‘Different, that’s for damn sure, but we are coping.’

‘Is there anywhere you can get a beer?’

‘You’re in luck Charlie, the beer tanker arrived just a few days ago, but it rarely lasts the week. These alien guys lap it up. It’s expensive though.’

‘Do they take American Express?’

Alfie laughed, ‘Federation Credits only.’

‘I have a friend who has a card.’

‘Drag him to the flight officer’s bar tonight on the Burning Wind then.’

‘Not a problem, I will even force him to buy you a beer.’

‘Look forward to it Charlie. Let’s escort you in.’

‘Roger that. Pilot, navigator, take us to the outer marker, then liaise with the space station. Follow their directions until we are docked.’

There were two muffled replies. Just then a figure appeared at Charlie’s side, rubbing his eyes.

‘Morning Charlie.’

‘Stevie.’

‘Are we there yet?’

Charlie shook his head with a grin, ‘Almost. You going to be doing your Captain thing?’

Steven slid his hands through his hair, ‘After a coffee maybe.’

‘Good morning Captain Gordon, or should I say Ambassador. It has been a while.’

Steven’s eyes focused on the screen and his head cocked to the side slightly.

‘Oh! Commander Lloyd, how are you keeping?’

Alfie was impressed that Steven remembered his name, ‘I am fine Sir, how are you?’

‘Not too bad.’

‘Will you be coming over to the Burning Wind tonight for a few beers?’

‘That’s not really my type of thing.’

‘Don’t worry about it Alfie, he will be coming.’ Charlie interrupted.

Steven shook his head and looked down at Charlie, ‘Why, why would I be going?’

‘Because they only take Federation Credits, and you are the only one with a card.’

‘Right! Don’t you think that’s an inappropriate use of fleet funds?’

‘You mean fleet funds from the company I set up? As an executive board member who is responsible for many aspects of the running of the company from this side of the great barrier, I could quite simply order my own card.’

Steven sniffed, ‘You could do. So why don’t you?’

‘That’s true, then I could treat the crew to a few beers after a very long and strenuous mission. Then I would be the man of the hour, the good guy, the guy who looks after the crew.’

Steven’s eyebrows rose dramatically, ‘Maybe the quartermaster wouldn’t mind. Especially if it were just one or two.’

‘Good man, well done Stevie. Your lessons in social etiquette are improving every day.’

Alfie was openly laughing, ‘Then I will catch you later gentlemen.’

Steven returned to his quarters. He took a quick shower and changed. By the time the ship docked, he was back on the bridge.

Chapter 12

‘Ambassador, welcome to Federation One. I am the overall commanding officer, Commodore Borach No.’

The alien seemed to shimmer slightly in the light. His skin was close to a grey green. As he moved the colours changed slightly. Although taller, he was more Human-looking than many Steven had already met.

‘Delighted Commodore.’

The Commodore offered his hand and Steven shook it.

‘Lady Ambassador,’ he bowed slightly and Komoru bowed back.

‘Am I so different that you stare so Ambassador?’

Steven flushed, ‘I apologise, I am being rude.’

‘You have never met a Macdo before?’

‘No.’

‘Many races are fascinated by the lustre of our skin. Although my race believes it is rude for one to stare so at another, we are used to it. I am not offended Ambassador.’

The fact that he had mentioned it made Steven believe that he was offended, at least a little. ‘My apology still stands Commodore.

‘Thank you Ambassador. I have a small reception for you, if you come this way. I was able to procure some Human food from the Burning Wind. Of course, there will be no meat. You may be interested to know that my people are not grass eaters, we eat fruit.’

‘That is unusual. Do you have any here?’

‘Of course, or we would starve Ambassador.’

Steven opened his mouth to say that wasn’t quite what he meant, but Komoru squeezed his arm.

‘I have tried some of your fruit Ambassador, but most of it goes straight through me. Very strange flavours.’

Steven and Komoru tried their best not to laugh. They were shown into a moderately well decorated reception area. There were a few senior officers there, and they soon got caught up in chit-chat.

As Steven wasn’t on an official engagement, Beaver and Colonel Howe had acted as their escort.

‘When is chicken fricassee not chicken fricassee?’ Beaver asked Howe.

Howe took a taste and screwed up his face, ‘When it is Tofu fricassee. How is the coke?’

It was Beaver’s turn to screw up his face, ‘Diet. Cheap Diet.’

Both men’s eyes locked on to an Albany officer as he moved towards them. He stopped right in front of them; his eyes swivelled down.

‘Are you two part of the Ambassador’s official escort?’

‘Why do you ask?’ Howe replied.

‘Curiosity only. You aren’t dressed like an official guard.’

‘We are the Captain’s security chiefs on board his ship. As the Captain isn’t on official business, he offered us the job of escorting him. Let us stretch our legs a little.’

‘I see, yes. Now he is an Ambassador and has an official escort, your opportunities to stretch your legs must be quite limited.’

‘So, who are you?’ Howe asked.

‘I am Colonel Man Dei. I am in charge of instructing the Human contingent, and you.’

‘Colonel Howe, the Ambassador’s chief of security.’

‘A pleasure to meet you Colonel.’

‘Likewise. Are you having fun teaching we Earthmen?’

‘Earthmen, men from Earth. Yes I quite like that term. The answer is no. If I had a tail Colonel, I would probably have chewed it off by now. That is a saying, I believe you Humans are fond of.’

‘We do have a few.’

‘Don’t you just. The plain truth is, Humanity is struggling to adapt. You do realise that joining the Federation requires a certain level of competency in many different areas. If you don’t reach that level, then your bid to join the Federation will fail.’

‘I wasn’t aware of that.’

‘I don’t suppose you are; after all, you walk in different circles. May I ask another question Colonel Howe?’

‘There is no harm in asking.’

‘Most Humans when they first meet me seem shocked. Both of your reactions have been remarkedly different. After our recent, and I suppose continued, conflict, many greet me with hostility, yet neither of you have. Why?’

Howe thought over the question carefully, ‘We are aware that many Albany serve the Federation Colonel. In that respect, the Federation is almost a race of its own, though maybe entity would be a better term. We aren’t at war with the Federation. Why then would I feel threatened by an Albany officer in a Federation uniform?’

‘Because I am an Albany.’

Beaver grunted, ‘Between us, we have killed hundreds of Albany Colonel, we don’t consider you much of a threat. Besides, we have probably killed more of our own race than we have Albany. We don’t feel threatened by them either.’

Howe smiled, ‘We do, however, consider our own race far more dangerous.’

‘I see. Then his security detail are the real soldiers on board his ship.’

‘I am not quite sure where you are going with this Colonel, but I can assure you that every soldier on board both of the Ambassador’s ships are real soldiers. Every member of the crew has military training as well. Every member can and will fight if necessary, including the women.’

‘Then both Ambassadors are well served, it is nice to hear.’

‘Now you are making me curious Colonel,’ Howe prompted.

Man Dei rolled his eyes at first Beaver then Howe, ‘Call it concern Colonel. One of my first jobs as a Federation officer was to recover a Barry, a Goodwill Ambassador from the Ashka. I have no idea what actually happened. The Ashka at the time had a weapon that liquified a body. They liquified the Ambassador and his whole guard. I was told later by a more senior officer who had been a part of the investigation, that the Barry Ambassador’s honour guard had been little more than hired models; very pretty but of little practical use. Just a little fighting knowledge may well have saved them all. All we took home were their garments, the rest, the Ashka had already flushed down the drain.’

Howe understood now where the alien was coming from, ‘Thank you for the story Colonel, however, our Ambassador is far better served.’

‘Of all the political roles in the galaxy, a Goodwill Ambassador’s job is probably the most dangerous. Still, if they survive, they normally reach a high office.’

‘All our Ambassador wants is to be able to explore the galaxy at will.’

‘If your race reaches full Federation status, then he will be able to. I wish you luck in your endeavours,’ he bowed slightly, ‘Gentlemen.’

‘Thank you.’

Man Dei walked away.

‘What was that all about?’ Beaver asked.

‘I think he was just being nice. Either that, or he was trying to put the wind up us.’

‘Do you feel the breeze Sir?’

‘Oh hell no.’

They both laughed.

Man Dei bumped into the Commodore at the buffet table.

‘I saw you talking to the Ambassador’s security detail Colonel, were you telling them the story about the Barry?’

‘I was. I consider it a duty.’

‘Did they really flush them down a drain?’

‘They did Sir, the whole lot of them.’

‘The Federation banned the weapons, didn’t they?’

‘Thankfully. I was told the process wasn’t instantaneous. The victims lived for at least a minute before their organs collapsed and they died.’

‘Horrible.’

‘Indeed.’

‘What do you make of his men?’

‘A different breed to what we are used to.’

‘They never pulled a weapon on you?’

‘They didn’t even blink Sir. They are a part of his security team from the ship’s complement. They also assured me that the Ambassador’s guards are all professional soldiers.’

‘Interesting, I would like to know a little more. Make some discrete inquiries would you Colonel?’

‘Of course Sir. How did you find the Ambassadors themselves?’

‘They are very small, non-threatening. The female seems especially docile.’

‘Aren’t those the ones that get killed first?’

‘Normally, yes.’

‘Still, they are Human.’

‘That’s true.’

Chapter 13

The table rocked with laughter at Charlie and Eddie’s verbal sparring. Komoru was cringing at the language. She had disagreed with this use of their resources at first. It was the way the majority of the crew studied the cold beers in front of them for a moment before drinking them that changed her mind. It was rare that both crews relaxed together like this, and they seemed to be enjoying themselves.

There was a sudden drop in the noise. It took a moment for Komoru to spot the disturbance. Her jaw dropped. Captain Jean Wilson seemed to glide between the people that crowded the bar. She hesitated for a moment; Komoru realised she was looking for someone. She seemed to spot them and headed for their table. Komoru was suddenly afraid that she was coming to talk to Steven, but her eyes never strayed in his direction.

Jean stopped behind a figure lower down the table; her hand reached out.

‘Gentlemen, is there room for me on that bench?’ The two men she was addressing swivelled round. It took Eddie a few seconds for his eyes to rise above the breasts to the face above. He flushed darkly.

‘Aye,’ was as much as he could find to say. A second later he was shoving the men to his left up. She nimbly squeezed in between them.

Her eyes turned towards the other man, ‘Hello Charlie, I heard you were in town. I see we are the same rank now.’

Charlie couldn’t help the smile that lit up his face, ‘Hello Jean. You know that a Captain in the army and a Captain of a ship isn’t the same thing.’

‘Do I look like I care?’

‘No. I don’t suppose you do. How are you?’

‘I'm fine Charlie, how are you?’

‘You know, ticking away.’

Those that were in the know laughed hard. Jean’s laugh sent shivers up the spines of more than a few men. Komoru noticed that both Charlie and Eddie quickly modified their language. The men of the crew soon got over their shock, and things returned to normal.

Komoru snapped a glance at Steven, but he hadn’t even seemed to have noticed Jean’s arrival. She spoke directly to his mind.

‘Who is that speaking to Charlie?’

‘Jean Wilson, Captain of the Sir William Wallace.’

So he had noticed, Komoru felt a wave of inadequacy wash over her, ‘Have you met her before?’

‘Briefly, I thought she was going to tear my head off.’

‘Oh! Why?’

‘It was over Charlie; long story, I will tell you later.’

‘You haven’t said hello.’

‘No, and unless I am forced to, I’m not going to either.’

Komoru fought back the smile that threatened to break free. Even though Steven hadn’t spoken aloud, she had learned to tell his moods by the way he spoke in her head. It was obvious he either didn’t like her, or felt intimidated in some way by her. She leaned against him briefly, he turned and smiled, her smile suddenly broke free.

‘This was a good idea Steven,’ she spoke aloud.

‘You like it now, do you?’

‘Yes, everyone is happy.’

‘Except for those on duty.’

‘Most are non-drinkers and volunteered.’

‘That’s true, but let’s try and find some time for them tomorrow. Maybe time to get off the ship and walk around some.’

‘Good idea. Let’s stay for a few days, catch our breath. They have a mall of some kind on the station. It is restricted in what it sells, but it should still be fun.’

‘A woman’s idea of fun, maybe.’

‘You like shopping too.’

‘Now and then.’

Jean’s laugh irritated her. Komoru glanced down the table.

‘Does that woman actually like Charlie?’

Steven sighed, ‘It would seem so.’

‘Does she know what he is?’

‘She does actually.’

‘Creepy.’

Steven was astonished, ‘Komoru, that’s not like you.’

She flushed with embarrassment, ‘I am sorry Steven. It just slipped out.’

‘Charlie is my friend, he has been through hell. His condition isn’t his fault, it is mine.’

‘Do you ever think it would have been better if you had let him die?’

‘Once or twice, but not now.’

‘Oh?’

‘During the asteroid mission, we had pretty much resolved ourselves to crashing into the asteroid to save the Earth. Charlie saved us from that. From that day to this, I have been eternally grateful.’

It all came rushing back, ‘Of course, he was rescued by the Sir William Wallace.’

‘That’s right. He told me the Captain used to visit him every day. I think she really got to like him.’

‘Why? He is so plain!’

‘What’s got into you today?’

‘I'm sorry, but, you know. She’s like “wow, oh my God” and Charlie is well, you know, just plain Charlie.’

‘Maybe she just wants to see how the man she rescued is getting on,’ there was a slight tone of disgust in Steven’s voice.

‘Of course, that has to be it. Oh, how nice is that Steven?’

‘Very nice indeed dear,’ Steven stuck his face into his pint.

Cookie and Mya appeared. It took Komoru’s mind away from Charlie and Jean, for which Steven was eternally grateful. She speculated on the stage their relationship was at. Mya was shy and blushing. Cookie looked relaxed despite the sexual tension they all speculated he was suffering from.

Commander John Logan arrived and sat next to Alfie. He found himself sitting opposite Jean; she engaged him in polite conversation. After a couple of beers the crew began to head back to the ship. Jean excused herself from the table. The moment she was out of range, Charlie’s eyes locked onto Logan’s.

‘So what’s your beef?’

‘Excuse me?’

‘You have been scowling at me since you sat down, so what is your beef? You are making the Captain uncomfortable.’

The directness of the question caught Logan off guard.

‘You seem kind of off to me. You’re an officer, but you sure don’t sound like one. Your buddy here is just a Sergeant, but he don’t treat you like an officer.’

‘Because we both served together as Sergeants until just recently.’

‘Right, that makes sense. What did you do to get promotion so fast?’

‘Right place, right time, right person.’

‘Yeah okay, you want to elaborate fella?’

‘No.’

Logan shrugged, ‘Sure. You know the Captain?’

‘She saved my arse.’

Logan was getting exasperated with the short explanations.

Eddie stepped in with a grin, ‘Aye, oor Charlie here was lost in space. How long were you oot there Charlie?’

‘Too bloody long.’

Something stirred in the depths of Logan’s mind. ‘What! You were saved by the Sir William Wallace?’

‘Aye why?’

‘Are you the tin man?’

Alfie’s eyebrows shot up. ‘Holy shit, was that you?’

Charlie was scowling at them, ‘How would a couple of hotshot astronauts know the nickname the crew gave me while I was on board that ship?’

‘Because we were there at the time.’ Logan explained how they had come to command a couple of wings of trainees during the asteroid emergency.

‘Small world,’ Eddie laughed.

‘Sure is bud,’ Alfie agreed with him. ‘I thought you were blind?’

Charlie turned his attention to Alfie, ‘I was at the time.’

‘Scuttlebutt has it that you threw yourself off the bed and saluted the wall when you first met the Captain.’

Charlie laughed, ‘That could be true, I have no idea.’

Logan made another connection, ‘You knew who she was?’

Charlie finished off his beer, ‘The moment she told me I was on the Sir William Wallace, I knew who she was. She is a Scottish hero.’

Logan scratched at his chin thoughtfully, ‘Of course, a local hero.’

‘Yup.’

‘I didn’t know who she was,’ Eddie grumbled into the dregs of his beer.

‘Aye ye did,’ Charlie turned on him, ‘Dinna be an arse.’

‘Whit! Aye right, I’ve heard of the woman, didna ken she had her own ship,’ Charlie accepted that. Eddie put down his empty glass, ‘I'm finished. We heading?’

‘I suppose.’

Just then Jean appeared carrying a tray. She placed it on the table and slid the beers along to them. Eddie picked up the glass with a grin, ‘Maybe no just yet then.’

It wasn’t long before the rest of Charlie’s crew had left. Eddie then did a surprising thing - he tossed back the last of his beer and excused himself, giving Charlie a playful nudge. Charlie looked lost for a moment.

Alfie got up and returned a few minutes later with more beer, pushing one across to Charlie.

‘Your pal with the card has disappeared on you bud, but here’s a beer for you.’

Charlie picked it up, ‘Cheers Alfie.’

‘Have you two met before?’ Jean asked.

‘Alfie was our guide this morning,’ Jean looked confused, ‘I was on watch,’ Charlie explained.

‘Ah, you were being a real Captain, Captain.’

Charlie laughed, ‘I suppose I was.’

Alfie was still grinning, ‘What did you do wrong to pull extra duties?’

‘I'm always doing something,’ Charlie avoided the question. ‘Moving from the Sergeants’ mess to the Officers’ mess in one giant leap leaves you glaringly unaware of the pitfalls in between.’

Alfie thought that was funny, ‘It must have been one hellava trip.’

‘You went straight from a Sergeant to a Captain, that’s one hellava leap fella,’ Logan butted in.

‘Aye,’ Charlie agreed. ‘Like I said, right place at the right time. Or, the other way around for me. It’s been a complete pain in the arse.’

‘You never did explain in your letters,’ Jean prompted.

‘Basically, the Captain that was appointed to the Ambassador’s guard, couldn’t be there in time. They needed a replacement and fast. I was the senior NCO on the guard, I was promoted.’

Logan sat forward, ‘Didn’t you have a Lieutenant on the guard?’

‘We do, aye.’

‘So why wasn’t he promoted to Captain, and you to Lieutenant?’

‘That’s a good point John,’ Jean agreed.

‘At the time, the Modloch Emperor had taken a bit of a shine to me. I kinda have access to the palace that no other Human has. So they made me the Captain instead. As 2IC of the guard, I often have to liaise with many Modloch officials.’

‘So you were the obvious choice,’ Jean smiled.

‘Pretty much.’

Logan still wasn’t happy though, ‘How the hell did you get involved with the Emperor?’

‘Another long story. Briefly, I had a falling out with some of his guards while I was visiting a friend on the city ship.’

‘Is that your Modloch Engineer friend?’ Jean asked.

‘Aye, that’s right. Anyway, I beat the crap out of them. He was so impressed, he began demanding my presence when he knew I was visiting.’

Alfie laughed, but Logan didn’t, ‘How many of them did you beat up?’

‘Can’t remember now, about a dozen maybe.’

Alfie stopped laughing, ‘You’re shitting me!’

‘He saw the fight!’ Logan almost shouted.

Charlie screwed up his face, ‘Really long story, don’t want to go into it. He was there though.’

‘Wow, you troopers can tell some whoppers. Man you are full of shit.’

Charlie smiled coldly at Logan, ‘You may not believe me. I don’t blame you, it is a little hard to take in, but don’t call me a liar to my face.’

‘I happen to outrank you soldier, so don’t threaten me.’

‘Your rank doesn’t mean squat to me. Insult me to my face and I will take it very personally.’

‘I’ve seen those guys, there’s no way a little shit like you could beat a dozen of them.’

‘Really?’ Charlie reached out and took hold of an empty metal water jug that sat on the table. He squashed it between his hands, then folded it into a small squarish block. He tossed it across the table to a now white faced Logan.

‘Keep that as a souvenir, and any time you feel like calling me a liar, take it out and give it a rub. Next time, that will be you.’ Charlie stood, ‘I think I have had enough. If you will all excuse me.’

Jean shot Logan a killer look, ‘Wait a minute Charlie!’ He stopped and looked round, ‘If you could escort me back to my ship?’

‘Aye, no problem.’

Logan picked up the metal block and Alfie snatched it out of his hand, ‘You know, you can be a bit of a prick at times John.’

‘Why, because I called him a liar?’

‘You’re jealous, you struck out with the lady Captain and now she likes a guy, you can’t stop yourself having a go at him.’

‘That’s shit.’

‘No it ain’t. You’ve done this more than once. Hell, you’ve done it three times now that I know of. Three fights, with three different guys. You pick on them until they take a swing. I think this time you had better let it slide,’ he tried to prise open the metal block without success, ‘Jeez!’ He slid the block of metal back to Logan.

‘You believe him?’ Logan picked up the metal block, and tried to untangle the metal, with as much success as Alfie, ‘Holy shit!’

Alfie smiled grimly, ‘Not only do I believe him, if I was you, I would heed the warning.’

Jean forced down Charlie’s pace to a gentle stroll. ‘So how are you enjoying the new job?’

‘Which one?’

‘You have more than one?’

‘Aye.’

‘Well let’s start with being an officer.’

‘It’s a pain in the arse.’

She laughed, ‘Really!’

‘All the pomp and ceremony gets right up my nose. Then there is all the damn different uniforms. The Sergeants’ mess was bad enough.’

‘So what else are they making you do?’

‘I head up a team researching all the different cultures we will be visiting, putting together a portfolio of do and don’ts for the Ambassadors.’

‘That sounds interesting.’

‘It’s fun, I enjoy it. Some of these people are pretty damn weird.’

‘Was it Captain Gordon’s idea?’

‘Strangely enough, it was Komoru’s.’

‘It is a good idea. I heard some woman from the last century was doing that for them.’

‘Lady Jane. She works with me, she is their protocol advisor. She isn’t quite up to speed with the technology and has a tendency to shy away from some of the… not so nice aspects of the job. She is very good though.’

‘Not so nice? Are there some strange protocols out there?’

‘Loads! Customs, protocols, some bizarre, some vulgar, and some downright dangerous.’

She laughed, ‘I have never heard of a dangerous protocol.’

Charlie thought it over for a minute, ‘It isn’t so much the protocols or customs that are dangerous. It’s the consequences of not adhering to them. Many Goodwill Ambassadors have been killed along the way. It is a dangerous job.’

‘It doesn’t seem dangerous.’

‘It is a Goodwill Ambassadors job to go in and break the ice between different species. With so many, it is easy to become confused. There is also the added danger of breaking a law unwittingly. Many of these planets have supreme Emperors. Some of whom have egos as big as their empires. There is one who demands that all bow and kiss his toes, individually, and in the proper order.’

‘I can’t see many people doing that!’

‘Well, that particular race has a large asteroid field, that contains a very rare mineral. They have fought half a dozen wars defending it, and another half a dozen because they have executed so many Ambassadors.’

‘Seriously?’

‘I shit you not. To add insult to injury, the Emperor is said to practice very bad foot hygiene.’

Jean made a noise to emphasis her disgust, ‘You are joking, right!’

‘No, seriously.’

‘My God, that is horrible.’

‘Luckily for Steven, we have an abundance of it in our solar system.’

‘So he won’t have to kiss the Emperor’s feet.’

Charlie thought it over, ‘He might have to one day. I think Steven will be safe from execution though. It will be the full Ambassador he will want to execute.’

‘What! Wait a moment Charlie; why would he want to kill our Ambassador?’

‘To start a war. He has invited every race that has a surplus of this element to his home planet and then executed them to start a war. He then uses some kind of radioactive beam to destroy that race’s supply of the element.’

‘So he keeps the monopoly?’

‘Exactly.’

‘This stuff, this element, will be expensive, right?’

‘Ounce for ounce, a thousand times more expensive than gold, or a fire diamond. He has already made enquiries towards a visit from the Human race.’

‘We don’t need his element, we should just refuse.’

Charlie sighed heavily, ‘As a probationary member making a bid to join the Federation, we cannot refuse a request by a full Federation member for an Ambassadorial visit.’

Jean slowed to a halt, ‘Is this going to be a problem for Humanity?

‘Sooner or later.’

‘But they can’t survive in our solar system.’

‘Do you think that an Emperor, who has over a dozen planets and a force ten times ours, will really give a shit about sacrificing a few thousand men to destroy our elements? One that has no fear of beheading Goodwill, or even full, Ambassadors?’

‘He would still have to find them.’

‘Aye, well Steven is the only guy that knows exactly where they are, so God help us if he ever finds that out.’

‘Is it a secret?’

‘Unfortunately no. The Modloch Emperor knows exactly who Steven is, and I will bet a few more do by now too.’

‘Was he one of those Emperors that ratified the Human bid?’

‘No, he didn’t even bother to turn up. He is disliked by many.’

‘What race is this?’

‘The Evolka.’

A group of soldiers coming down the passage forced them to walk on.

‘So the Ambassador’s job isn’t an easy one?’

‘Far from it. Very few actually last the full term of their contracted years, which is normally seven. Don’t ask me why, I don’t know.’

‘So why do they do it Charlie?’

‘It is a fast track to political success.’

‘That doesn’t sound like your Captain.’

‘Oh hell no. Stevie doesn’t have any political aspirations, he just wants to swan around the galaxy.’

‘Ah! Now that sounds like your Captain. Of course, Humanity doesn’t yet have a free hand to do as they please.’

‘We don’t have civilian craft in this part of the galaxy either.’

‘Of course. Doesn’t that help things?’

‘In some ways, aye. There are places that civilian craft can go that military craft can’t. On the whole though, they are better off out of the equation until we have full Federation status.’

‘I know pressure is gaining momentum at home to have craft freed for private use.’

‘Commercial use, you mean.’

Jean smiled, ‘Of course. Humanity wants in.’

‘It is the last thing we need at the moment. Right now, any idiots swanning around this galaxy on their own are liable to end up as jam.’

Jean laughed, ‘Seriously?’

Charlie snapped round; Jean found herself pinned to the wall by Charlie. His eyes bored into her. She realised that he was just slightly taller than her.

‘The way the Albany extract serum from a Human is actually quite simple to begin with. As they don’t need anything from Human hair, their victims are scorched, a bit like the way your great granny took the hairs off a chicken. They are then dropped into a blender, very much alive and screaming. It would seem the masses of adrenalin that a Human produces when they are terrified helps the bonding process. They are reduced to a paste.’

A guttural growl snapped Charlie’s attention away from Jean: a trooper of a race he was unfamiliar with.

‘That is inappropriate behaviour,’ the trooper began. Charlie grabbed the front of the trooper’s tunic. Ceramic armour between layers in the tunic crunched in Charlie’s fist as he pulled him down to his knees. They were now eye-to-eye; Charlie’s blazed with fury, fear leaped into the eyes of the trooper as he found he couldn’t move.

‘Is that how you address senior officers in the Federation, trooper?’

‘No,’ he managed to gulp.

‘We may not be in the same force, but I am quite sure your senior officers would not take kindly to your behaviour towards other officers, regardless of the force they belong to. I imagine they would boot your arse from here to the middle of next week.’

‘I saw, I thought…’ the trooper gulped.

‘I can assure you that there was no inappropriate behaviour happening, regardless of how it looked. I will admit that it may have looked suspect, but you have my word as an officer that it wasn’t.’

Jean stepped up to Charlie’s side, ‘Captain Murison was chastising me for a careless and thoughtless remark,’ she turned her full attention towards Charlie, ‘Captain Murison, I wish to sincerely apologise for my thoughtless remark. I was not aware of the full facts.’

Charlie let the trooper go and took a deep breath, ‘I must also apologise for the rather rude and forceful way in which I informed you of the facts, Captain Wilson.’

‘Then I will accept your apology, if you accept mine.’

‘Done.’

The trooper struggled to his feet, ‘I must also apologise for the misunderstanding.’

‘You okay?’ Charlie asked.

‘Yes Sir. If I may, I will be on my way.’

‘Of course.’

The trooper hurried off and they watched him go. Jean turned back to Charlie.

‘That is quite a temper you have there Charlie.’

‘Aye,’ Charlie was still watching the trooper, ‘There are nights when I wake up sweating and screaming; sometimes I even cry myself back to sleep. I am aware of it, and try to deal with it; or cope with it. Call it what you want,’ he turned back to her, ‘I'm not as bad as I was. Every now and then though, some things still slip past my shields and take me unawares.’

‘I think you have a very strong sense of honour and duty Charlie.’

‘I have friends who would laugh at that statement.’

‘I am sure you do.’

Charlie suddenly burst out laughing, and the mood lightened.

‘Oh I certainly do.’

Jean joined in his laughter and they carried on at the same slow pace. Eventually they came to a bank of lifts. There were ship’s names above each.

Jean frowned, ‘Damn them. I don’t know how many times I have asked them to put my ship’s name up in English.’

Charlie pointed, ‘That one.’

Jean was surprised, ‘You can read that?’

‘It’s complicated,’ Charlie admitted. ‘I can’t actually read it. Sort of scan it more; my ship can then tell me the name, or I have my own little translation program installed which I can use when out of range.’

‘Wait, the ship can see everything you can see?’

‘If she wants to, or needs to. I am the only one that can completely block her out though.’

‘Like now?’

‘Aye. Most of the time in fact.’

‘So how is it that you can do what no one else can?’

‘That’s a secret.’

‘You mean you can’t be bothered with another long explanation?’

A smile slowly spread across Charlie’s face, ‘You are very smart Jean, maybe too smart.’

She returned his smile, ‘I get that a lot.’

‘I bet you do.’

She pressed a button and the elevator soon arrived, ‘This will take me straight to my ship. Thank you for escorting me.’

‘It was my pleasure.’

‘How long are you going to be here?’

‘A few days I think.’

‘Then would you join me for dinner tomorrow night?’

‘I think I would enjoy that.’

‘Eight.’

‘Okay.’

Jean stepped into the elevator and the doors shut silently behind her.

Chapter 14

Jeb found Charlie with a large frown on his face, studying his computer screen.

‘What’s up bud? You look worried about something.’

Charlie took the steaming cup of coffee from Jeb’s hand.

‘Thanks Jeb. Aye, I might have a wee dilemma on my hands.’

‘Anything interesting?’

‘No, not really. Captain Wilson asked me to dinner tonight but there is a shit-load of protocol. It would seem the Federation frowns upon any kind of fraternisation between ranking officers.’

‘Like what?’

‘Well we need to be chaperoned for starters, by someone of higher rank.’

‘That’s easy: Mya, she is a Lady of the Imperial Modloch court. I saw her ID, it’s very impressive.’

‘Right enough,’ Charlie’s fingers tapped the keyboard, ‘That will do nicely Jeb. There has to be a man and a woman, so Cookie can come along as well. The thing is, this is for Federation officers. There is nothing on guests, which we both are.’

‘What about visiting protocols Charlie?’

It took him about ten minutes to answer, ‘It says here it is polite to acknowledge the Federation rules, but not necessary.’

Jeb slapped him on the back, ‘There you go bud, she is all yours.’

Charlie wasn’t happy though; he thought it over.

‘You know, if I was still a Sergeant, I don’t think I would worry too much about it, but as a member of the Ambassador’s guard, I think we should be polite.’

‘It sure must suck being an officer at times Charlie.’

‘Aye, it bloody does Jeb.’

Jean had lain out a number of dresses on her bed. She picked the first one up and held it against her body.

‘What do you think Mary? Demure, but with just enough sexy?’

‘Ma’am, with your figure, there is nothing demure,’ Jean held up a second, Mary burst out laughing, ‘That is little more than a red rag Ma’am, unless you want molested before you eat, I would say no.’

Jean held up the next dress, it was a floral summer dress.

Mary screwed up her face, ‘Maybe you could go barefoot and chew on a corn stalk as well Ma’am.’

‘Surely not, it’s nice, quite plain.’

‘With enough boob showing to poke a man’s eyes out on the way past, very buckle bunny.’

Jean laughed, ‘What the hell is a buckle bunny?’

‘You know, a girl that likes rodeo stars and cowboys, guys who wear big belt buckles.’

‘Ah! Okay, I get that,’ she put the dress down, ‘Maybe not then.’

A short while later, she received a text on her private phone.

Jean frowned, ‘It is from Charlie; that Steven Gordon had better not be pulling out again, I swear I will jump into my fighter and shoot his engine out from underneath him,’ she read the text, ‘Oh dear!’

‘What is it Ma’am?’

Jean tossed the dress down onto her bed, ‘I don’t think we will need a dress. Charlie has sent me an email,’ she went to her e-pad and read the email. ‘Unbelievable.’

‘What is it Ma’am?’

She handed over the pad and Mary read it through, ‘This can’t be right.’

‘It will be.’

‘It isn’t fair. He says that as guests you don’t need to follow protocol.’

Jean sighed, ‘Charlie is correct, we need to do it right. He has already posted notice. The only question now is what uniform I wear,’ she took the pad back and read through it.

‘That’s easy Ma’am, he is a soldier. Combats should send his pulse racing.’

The two women laughed.

Chapter 15

Charlie was met at the airlock and guided to the Captain’s private quarters. A young woman he had never met before opened the door at his knock. Her eyes ran over him swiftly and a small crease threatened to break out at the corners of his mouth. Charlie didn’t need to read her mind to know what she was thinking. Charlie was one of those people that did not stand out in a crowd. He wasn’t tall, or particular handsome. A little under average height maybe, plain looks. The only thing that seemed to be different was the look in his eyes. Mary took a deep breath and offered to take his Glengarry.

Charlie handed it over, ‘Thank you.’

Mya and Cookie had arrived ten minutes before, as protocol demanded. Jean and Cookie were openly laughing at Mya.

‘What!’ She protested, ‘I think they are good guidelines, and proper.’

Charlie was smiling as he approached the group, ‘What’s going on?’

Mya took a deep breath, ‘It is my task to advise the female party on protocol and behaviour. The Captain and Cookie think they are funny.’

‘We are not allowed to share grass from the same bale,’ Jean told Charlie, ‘It would seem we have to eat from our own bales.’

‘It wasn’t that you were laughing at,’ Mya scolded.

Charlie shook his head, ‘If you consider that most of these races only come into heat only once or twice a year, then it’s a bit of overkill.’

‘Charlie please,’ Mya protested. ‘Don’t be disgusting.’

‘I apologise Mya, don’t worry, we won’t break the rules. I read them earlier.’

Jean pointed to a white sheet that cut her quarters in half. ‘You two may now recline on the couch. It is through there.’

‘Is that allowed?’ Mya asked.

‘Yes, as we aren’t dating, and are meeting simply as friends, then we are allowed to be segregated.’

‘Aye, but you are still within hearing range,’ Charlie added.

Mya looked from one to the other, then smiled, ‘Okay, we shall leave you to your meal then.’

‘Perfect,’ Jean smiled.

The two disappeared behind the sheet; Jean turned her attention towards Charlie, ‘Shall we be seated?’

‘Why not,’ Charlie agreed.

Jean swept her eves over Charlie. He was dressed in tartan trews with a number two dress jacket.

‘That isn’t regulation mess dress, is it Charlie?’

‘No, I went for a safer neutral dress. The problem would be the kilt.’

‘Ah! Say no more.’

‘Is that standard mess dress for your branch?’

‘It is the new Earth Defence Force standard, it’s a bit like Navy whites I suppose.’

‘It’s very smart.’

‘You should have seen what I wanted to wear. It would have knocked your cotton socks off.’

There was a discrete cough from behind the sheet. Jean and Charlie both looked round then burst out laughing.

Jean lowered her voice, ‘It would seem Lady Mya is taking her job seriously.’

‘No whispering either,’ Mya called.

The two could only shake their heads. Charlie also heard whispering from behind the sheet and turned his hearing up. Cookie was scolding her lightly for taking things too far. He turned his hearing back to normal.

Jean was suddenly struggling for something to say, ‘That’s a lot of medals on your chest Charlie, and I am guessing not all are for long service or good conduct.’

‘The long service is there, but not the good conduct.’

Jean couldn’t help but laugh, ‘Then I assume your career has been long and colourful.’

‘It certainly has. I'm not the only one with a lot of tin though. I see the good conduct medal on you though.’

‘That’s because I am a nice person.’

‘I will take your word for that. So no husband, no ex-husband either?’

‘I have only ever been married to the service. Before you ask, no boyfriend too. You know all this.’

Charlie shrugged, ‘Things might have changed.’

‘They haven’t. What about you?’

Charlie shook his head, ‘Nope.’

‘I bet you have broken a few hearts though.’

‘Me! I don’t think so Jean.’

‘Aren’t you supposed to refer to one another by rank?’ Mya called.

‘Piss off Mya,’ Charlie addressed the white sheet.

Her reply was muffled by Cookie’s hand.

‘That is so distracting,’ Jean wasn’t looking happy.

‘I think that’s the whole point,’ Charlie agreed. ‘Mya, this is only a consideration as we are guests of the Federation. Stop taking things so seriously.’

The sheet was suddenly whipped back to reveal Mya’s smiling face, ‘But I am having so much fun Charlie. What is it you call this?’ Her eyes swivelled upwards, ‘Ah yes, payback for all the times you have teased Cookie and myself. Live with it Charlie,’ the sheet fell back into place.

Jean was looking un-amusedly at Charlie, ‘You really know how to kill an evening Charlie.’

‘You were the one who wanted dinner, but I will hold up my hands to bringing the passion killer twins in on the scene.’

There was a tiny squeal from behind the sheet, ‘I don’t think it’s we who need to be watched,’ Jean added with non-lady-like grunt.

‘These Federation people really don’t seem to like us much, and they really seem to hate you Jean.’

‘They do seem to be going out of their way to make my life uncomfortable,’ she smiled. ‘This is the right way to do this,’ she raised her voice a little, ‘Mya, please carry on.’

The twittering of Mya began to fade into the background as the two relaxed. Charlie refused the wine but accepted a fresh orange juice. Mary put their starter down in front of him, but he pushed it away.

‘Is something wrong Charlie?’

‘I don’t like fish.’

‘Oh!’

‘What?’

Jean bit her lip, ‘It is Friday.’

Charlie shook his head, ‘So?’

‘I was hedging my bets.’

Charlie clicked, ‘Ah! I get ye. That would be no and no.’

‘You aren’t Catholic, and you hate fish.’

‘Pretty much.’

‘It’s all fish.’

‘Looks like I’m only going to eat pudding then.’

‘Crème Caramel.’

‘Not a chance.’

‘This is a disaster.’

‘No really, we were prepared for this eventuality.’

A few seconds later a steaming pot appeared on the table.

‘What’s that?’ Jean asked.

‘Stovies.’

‘Seriously?’

‘Aye. Cookie made them for the crew tonight. I reserved a pot just in case.’

Jean smiled, ‘Is there enough for two?’

‘Whit!’

They both laughed.

‘I haven’t had stovies in years,’ Jean admitted.

‘Help yourself, I don’t actually eat much.’

‘Why not?’

‘I don’t need to.’

‘Of course.’

‘You don’t have any fresh milk do you?’

‘As a matter of fact we do.’

Jean sent Mary to fetch some fresh milk and a packet of oatcakes appeared on the table. The two of them tucked in, the fish in the hostess trolley forgotten. When Mary returned, she poured them both a glass.

Jean eventually pushed her empty plate away, ‘That was exceptional, much better than fish.’

‘Aye, Cookie’s stovies are as good as my mum’s.’

‘I think you saved the day Charlie. How did you know?’

‘Well, you are an officer, and it is Friday.’

She burst out laughing, it was exactly what she had said to him earlier. ‘Do you want anything for pudding.’

‘Honestly, I couldn’t eat it. Enjoy your crème caramel.’

‘Let me guess, it is the texture you don’t like.’

‘You got it in one.’

‘Very common,’ Jean laughed, ‘I am horrible.’

Charlie was also laughing, ‘Simple fare, that’s me.’

‘What else don’t you like?’

‘Cabbage, sprouts, broccoli, anything with sage in it.’

‘You must hate the officer’s mess then.’

‘With a passion. Luckily on the ship, although we all eat the same meal, there is normally a wee choice. I can eat Mexican, Chinese, Indian, German, don’t like French or Italian food.’

‘Greek?’

‘Kebabs and stuff like that, love it.’

‘Especially after a few beers.’

‘Now you’re getting there.’

She laughed, ‘Wasn’t hard to guess Charlie.’

‘I have a particular dislike for what you may regard as fine dining. Tiny portions, everything half cooked.’

‘I think I am beginning to get a handle on you.’

‘Common as muck.’

Jean rolled her eyes, ‘Old fashioned maybe.’

‘Oh hell no, just common.’

Jean laughed, ‘So why did you accept becoming an officer; you could have refused a commission?’

‘I wasn’t really given much of a choice,’ Charlie made a gesture with his hands, ‘Politics really. I was the right guy for the job at the time.’

‘Right place right time.’

‘Pretty much,’ Charlie agreed.

‘May I ask why?’

‘It’s complicated,’ Charlie sighed. ‘Basically, I have the ear of the Modloch Emperor.’

Jean was astounded, ‘Seriously!’

‘Aye. So when they needed a Captain to replace the one we were supposed to have, they hauled me in.’

‘Straight to Captain.’

‘Because it is a Captain’s job to liaise with all these… I was going to say foreign, but it’s alien, isn’t it.’

‘It is, but I can see exactly what you mean. So how did you and the Emperor meet?’

‘We met at a ball I was invited to by the King. He introduced us and I insulted the Emperor. He then tried to have me assassinated. I apologised by beating up his Royal guard and some of his executioners,’ Charlie squinted up at the roof of the cabin, ‘Yup, that’s pretty much what happened.’

Jean was now laughing from behind her hands, ‘How do you apologise by beating up his guard? No wait! How did you insult him?’

‘I looked him straight in the eye,’ Charlie paused, ‘Wait, first I stopped one of his guards from drawing his ceremonial sword. A challenge, if you get me.’

‘Yes, yes, I think so. You asked the guy to try and draw it or something.’

‘Aye, I put my hand over the pommel.’

‘Right. So he couldn’t draw it.’

‘Couldn’t budge it, even with both hands. Then I looked the Emperor in the eye and told him that after he had finished playing with the politicians, he should keep in mind that it would be people like me he was fighting with.’

Jean’s eyes twinkled, ‘I get that Charlie. He didn’t like it.’

‘Oh hell no. It’s almost a capital offence, for a low born to look the Modloch Emperor in the eye, let alone a low born meat-eating piece of scum like me.’

‘So what happened next?’

‘One day when I was visiting his Chief Engineer, a friend of mine, I was caught by one of his Royal guard, and lured to what was supposed to be my demise, in, I will say, the Emperor’s presence. I got the drop on them and threatened to kill the Emperor. We obviously had a wee chat, whereupon he told my why he felt I had insulted him. I reassured him that I hadn’t intended to insult him; that in fact I had been deadly serious about the warning. As a measure of my sincerity, I offered to fight all of his men in hand-to-hand combat. If I lost, then I offered him my life. If I won, then he would have to believe in the sincerity of my warning.’

Jean was holding her breath, ‘You fought them all.’

‘Leathered the shit out of them, and dangled the head of his guard out the window by his ankle,’ Charlie omitted to tell her that he had killed one of them.

Jean was holding onto her sides now, ‘Oh my God Charlie. Seriously?’

‘Aye. He accepted my apology.’

‘I'm not surprised. So what happened then?’

‘I poured him a cup of tea.’

That set her off again, ‘I really don’t know whether to believe you or not.’

‘I can assure you, I’m not lying. He also has a thing about me pouring him tea now. I pretty much have the freedom of his palace as well.’

‘Wow! The intelligence corps must love you.’

‘I doubt it. Two of them approached me while we were training in the palace. I reported them to the Emperor’s men and had them arrested. I doubt if I’m flavour of the month with that lot.’

Jean was shocked, ‘How could you turn in some of our own people? What happened to them?’

‘I don’t know and I don’t care. With any luck they were executed, but I suspect they will be held and used as a form of political leverage somewhere down the line,’ he smiled coldly. ‘They are the people who are responsible for my present condition.’

‘Not all of them Charlie.’

‘I don’t care. They are all the same to me.’

‘You would really see them executed?’

‘I would far rather have killed them myself, however the rules of the palace are quite clear on the matter. Any trainee who does not report immediately any attempt by any agency, from outwith or even from within the palace, to gather information of any kind on the Emperor, his forces, or family, will face arrest and execution, without trial, on the Emperor’s whim. It is not the trainee’s responsibility to detain the suspects, or to kill or harm them in any way. That is the responsibility of the training officer and the proper departments within the palace. Failure to heed this order shall subject the trainee to possible execution, on the Emperor’s whim, if they cannot prove that the person they killed was a subversive element,’ Charlie took a sip of coffee. ‘The thing is, the Emperor submits his trainees to frequent tests. You could end up killing one of his own intelligence people. We were told when we began training in the palace, that we too were bound by the same rules. We all read, agreed, and signed agreements to that end.’

Jean took a deep breath, ‘So you had no choice in the matter.’

‘None. I know I might be coming across as a bit overbearing here, but I truly detest those bastards. I wouldn’t have put it past the Emperor to have his people coerce some of our people to test us. There is also another element you have to take into consideration. Their surveillance equipment is far beyond anything that we have. To believe that we weren’t being constantly monitored is sheer stupidity. In the galactic scheme of things, we are complete amateurs.’

Jean’s smile returned, ‘You did the right thing, I’m sorry for being judgemental.’

A strange beeping noise came from somewhere around Jean’s desk. She scowled at Mary, who rushed to investigate. Mary picked up a phone.

‘Ma’am, the ship has been boarded by Federation personnel.’

Jean snapped to her feet, ‘What the hell!’ She marched over to her desk and demanded clarification. She then rapped out orders, put the phone down and returned to the table.

‘I'm sorry Charlie, something has come up. I have to leave.’

Charlie sat back, thinking, ‘I wouldn’t bother leaving, I have a feeling the trouble is coming to you,’ He raised his voice, ‘Cookie.’

‘Aye Charlie?’ Cookie’s voice had a strange quality to it.

‘I think we have incoming mucker. Up and at it.’

‘Aw, what the hell now?’

The two of them appeared from behind the curtain, looking rather tousled, and began to straighten themselves up.

Chapter 16

Emperor Ne´ Langus smiled in a way that Man Dei knew bode ill for someone; that someone was going to be the female Captain of the Human training ship.

‘Are you sure they have followed protocol to the letter Colonel?’

‘It would seem so Sire. I have to remind you that it is only a courtesy that they have done so. They in fact are breaking no morality laws.’

‘For what I am thinking, there can be no comeback on conduct from the Human side. There are always those who will try to justify our actions. The chaperon is Lady Mya, she is a Human, but also a Modloch noble. She has been adopted by the Emperor himself, an excellent choice for chaperone. This should really cause quite a stir.’

‘What will cause quite a stir Sir?’

‘When you board that ship and arrest all of them for breaking the morality codes set out by the Federation. You will hold them in detention and incognito until the incident has passed fully.’

‘Which will depend on the Human’s reactions Sire.’

‘Exactly. Hopefully their political wing will show some backbone, and the process will be quite quick.’

‘What if they cave in Sire?’

‘They will never reach full Federation status, and we will be stuck with a bunch of Humans we can’t really feed or look after properly. I will inform the Modloch Emperor of my intentions, when the need arises. I will release the lady Mya into his care; with luck he may even ask for the release of her companions.’

‘You will hand them over Sire?’

‘That will depend on how this thing swings. Yes, I like this situation Colonel, go make it happen.’

‘Yes Sire.’

An hour later, Man Dei had his assault team gathered and briefed.

‘There must be no Human casualties. Weapons set to stun only. We have scanned the ship, the Captain is in her cabin. We all know the layout, and will assault from the nearest airlock. Control will override the locks. We are expecting no guards, or armed personnel. The situation may well change fast, so we need to be fast. In and out before they can mount an armed response.

‘Our biggest threat will be from the Captain herself; she habitually carries one of those cannons the Humans have, on her hip. If she is wearing it, then shoot her before she can draw the weapon from its holster. Do not underestimate her just because she is female. She is an ace fighter pilot, and she has killed before; she will not hesitate to protect herself, her ship or her companions. If she isn’t wearing it, she may well try to recover the weapon; stop her at all costs short of killing everyone.’

He looked round, they all nodded in agreement, understanding what was happening.

‘We will also disable their internal alarms from here. In the unlikely event that we do come across armed resistance, do not do anything stupid. We believe that the Humans onboard the ship use chemical based weapons; we do not have the ability to neutralise them. If you don’t knock out your opponents in the first few shots, throw down your weapons and lie flat. Do not risk your lives; is this understood?’

‘Yes Sir,’ they all voiced at once.

He picked his blaster up from the table, ‘Then let’s go, we do not have a large window of opportunity.’

Chapter 17

It had all gone horribly wrong. Man Dei now had a good idea of how the Humans had beaten his own race. They had gained access to the ship without any problems. They had encountered only one man in the hallway on route to the Captain’s cabin and one Marine posted outside it. They had knocked down both men without any problems. The trouble had come about when they had burst into the Captain’s cabin.

The occupants had stood up at the table. The man was almost as short as the female. He had announced boldly that they were under arrest. It was then that the diminutive Human female had stepped forward, demanding that they remove themselves immediately. She had stepped right up to his troopers, and one of them had casually slapped her aside. It had been a big mistake. Man Dei wasn’t quite sure what had happened next, it had all been a horrible blur.

He hadn’t even seen the Human move. He had caught something out the corner of his eye, then something horrible had crashed into his chest; he had smashed against the wall, completely winded. He saw the fist a moment before it impacted, his last thoughts had been that he was going to die for the Emperor’s games.

The fist had knocked him senseless for a few seconds. When he came to, he was looking down the barrel of the female Captain’s weapon. His men lay prostrate on the ground around him. His eyes focused on a number of blasters that had been bent completely out of shape. They lay on the floor, tossed carelessly aside.

A steady smack, smack, smack, made him turn his head around. The trooper who had carelessly struck the diminutive woman was being beaten to a bloody pulp by her escort. The male officer went over and grasped his arm.

‘That’s enough Cookie.’

The angry Cookie scowled fiercely but eventually nodded and took a step back. The trooper slid down the wall unconscious. Man Dei struggled to make sense of it all. Rubber boots pounding up the corridor outside the room reached his sensitive ears. Seconds later, armed Marines burst into the Captain’s cabin.

‘Take them to the brig,’ she ordered, ‘If they are unconscious or can’t walk, drag them.’

Man Dei was unable to gain his feet and was unceremoniously dragged through the corridors on his back. It crossed his mind that the ship was spotless. He lay on the floor of the cell for a long time, wondering what was going to happen next. He was sure the Emperor wouldn’t care, he had his incident either way.

Shame kept him on the floor until long after he had recovered enough to sit up. Eventually, he swallowed his pride and dragged himself onto the bunk. His legs hung ridiculously out over the edge.

Fingers eventually explored his injuries. His snout was obviously broken, touching it made him want to scream with pain. He was sure he also had a few broken ribs. The pain came in waves, and he eventually drifted into a light sleep.

Chapter 18

‘Everyone out!’ Jean ordered, ‘Charlie, can you stay a moment please?’

‘Aye, no problem.’

When her people were gone, she folded her hands over her face for a few seconds.

‘What the hell do we do now Charlie?’

‘Dig in.’

She burst out laughing, ‘That is so army.’ She then frowned, ‘I think you are right though. What do you reckon they will do now?’

‘They probably haven’t realised that their people have been arrested yet. Are you going to release them?’

‘Oh hell no! I am going to put them through the mill.’

Charlie thought it over, ‘The Federation is going to come after us then. You had better make preparations.’

‘Do you think the other Human Captain will help us out?’

‘Not if they are wise. They are part of the Federation now. If they support you, then they will be breaking their contract. If you want their help for anything, I suggest you do so now, before the shit really hits the fan.’

She let out a deep breath, ‘You’re dead right. I am going to call for an immediate emergency resupply. How the hell did they get on board without anyone knowing?’

‘You are plugged directly into the station, they probably overrode all your security measures.’

‘I didn’t know they could do that.’

‘You didn’t read the manual then.’

She gave Charlie a frosty look, ‘I have people who are supposed to do that and inform me.’

Charlie pointed to his head and waggled a finger, ‘I am getting a live feed from my ship right now.’

‘Oh! I see, any useful information?’

‘You can unplug from the station if you want, however doing so will inform their security network that something is going on. They will immediately freeze you out.’

‘I think speed is of the essence Charlie. Come with me, will you?’

He followed her to the communications deck where she opened a private channel between the Captains of the supply vessels, briefly explaining what had happened and her fears.

Captain Markland of the Oakleaf spoke for both Captains.

‘It sounds like you just got handed the shitty end of the stick Jean. Our orders are to resupply you on request. I think we had better get to it before they close us down. Once we have the order to not resupply you, and I think we will, we won’t be able to come near you. Stand by to initiate direct transfer. Do you have room on both sides of you?’

‘We do.’

‘Then I suggest we do it simultaneously.’

‘Thank you.’

Jean and Charlie made their way to the bridge amidst running crew. Her second in command stood.

‘Evening Ma’am, I have activated the silent alarm, all of the crew are heading to their action stations. Weapons and shields are offline.’

‘I have the bridge. Make sure the weapons are not activated. Have the pilots man their ships, but they are to remain quiet; no start-ups. The resupply vessels are about to dock. Make sure every available crewman is on hand to transfer supplies.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

‘Charlie, can you help my security officer identify which lines we will have to shut down to prevent the Federation taking over our security systems again?’

‘Where is his station?’

A hand went up, ‘Over here Sir.’

It took Charlie, with the aid of Babes, almost half an hour to identify the systems and prepare to shut them off. He reported to Jean.

‘We are ready to shut them out. What’s happening?’

‘The supply ships have docked and we are moving supplies across as quickly as possible. We have had a request. They want to know why we are doing an unscheduled resupply.’

‘You mean they don’t know what has happened.’

‘It doesn’t look like it.’

‘That’s bloody strange. Do you think Man Dei was acting on his own authority?’

‘It is beginning to look that way, however I doubt it. Someone somewhere along the chain of command is going to know what he was up to and will sound the alarm.’

‘Steven has ordered the four of us to stay here. He is frightened that when he leaves, Federation vessels will pursue and detain him if we are aboard.’

‘Is he leaving?’

‘He is recalling the crew now.’

‘I have prepared a burst transmission to command explaining the situation,’ She flushed, ‘This could be embarrassing Charlie.’

‘Not to me.’

She smiled, ‘We are going to have to keep our distance from one another.’

‘I understand. I don’t fancy sitting idle though.’

‘What would you like to do?’

‘Could you put Cookie and myself onto the training team? Mya likes to keep busy too, although I’m not quite sure what good she will be. She normally helps Cookie in the cookhouse, you could ask her.’

‘That’s for later. I could send a full report with Captain Gordon, just in case they block our communications. We may have to leave quickly.’

‘Waste of time.’

‘Do you think so?’

‘There are hundreds of Federation vessels between here and the great barrier. You would need a fleet to bust loose from here.’

‘We are faster than most of them.’

‘I personally think they will try diplomatic solutions before they try force. The worst they can do is cut you off from the station’s amenities. If you go off half cocked, you could cause a huge incident. They would be forced to pursue and fire on you if you didn’t surrender. Failing to stop on orders from a Federation vessel could jeopardise Humanity’s effort to join the Federation.’

Jean took a deep breath, ‘Of course, you are a lot closer to the political scene than I am.’

‘Send your transmission and then sit back and leave it to the diplomats.’

‘I am in so much shit right now,’ She bit her lip.

‘No you’re not. My ship has told me that a small team of experts in ethics will be sent from the Federation to investigate what has happened. They will exonerate us from any wrongdoing. She believes they will not only exonerate us, but thank us for being so caring of Federation rules and regulations, even though we weren’t expected to follow them. The Colonel and his men can expect to be prosecuted for overzealousness.’

‘I think that’s a little optimistic, don’t you?’

‘Oh hell no. Just keep dotting the I’s, crossing the T’s, and we will be fine.’

Jean swithered for a few moments, ‘You know it is probably unethical of me at this moment to be taking advice from you. However, you have a hundred times more experience dealing with these aliens than I have. Right! I will send that communique.’

Chapter 19

Commodore Borach No was surprised to get a call from the Commander of the Federation so late in the evening. He dipped his head at the figure on his screen.

‘How can I be of assistance Sire?’

‘I am trying to get a hold of Colonel Man Dei, do you know of his whereabouts?’

‘I am afraid not Sire. I would presume at this hour he is either in the mess, or resting in his quarters.’

‘I can assure you he is doing neither. I sent him on a mission earlier this evening, and he is late reporting in. Find him and get him to report immediately.’

‘Yes Sire, straight away.’

Commodore Borach No put in a few calls and sat back to enjoy the rest of his evening. An hour later he received a full report from one of his aides. It left him more than a little concerned. He was forced to call the Emperor.

‘Commodore Borach No, do you have any news for me?’

‘No good news Sire. It would seem the Colonel called in the services of an assault team. They armed themselves and then left the station. Unfortunately, there is no record of them actually leaving, nor of any vessels missing. Could you possibly inform me of the nature of the mission that you sent the Colonel and his men on?’

Emperor Ne´ Langus thought it over for a moment, ‘I sent him to arrest the Captain of the Earth training vessel and her companions for a breach of ethics.’

Borach No felt a chill run through him, ‘With all due respect Sire, I saw the posting. The Humans weren’t breaching any Federation ethical law, simply because neither of the participants are members of the Federation.’

‘What I do here Commodore is far above your pay grade. Now get off your fat arse, get up to that control station, and find out what’s happened to my men.’

‘Immediately Sire.’

Borach No was puffing by the time he reached the central control hub of the station. There were more than a few of his staff who had arrived seconds before him. Some were still sorting out their clothing. He gave those individuals one of his famous scowls. The command chair was vacant and he sat down.

‘Report, what is the situation?’

There was a dumbfounded silence.

‘Well!’

‘What situation Sir?’ Asked one of his aides.

‘On the orders of the Emperor, our Grand Commander, Colonel Man Dei, took an assault team on board the Human training ship to arrest the Captain and her dining companions for a breach of ethical protocol. They haven’t been heard from since. Where are they, what’s happened to them? Find out. Someone must have overridden the ship’s security. Find them.’

Over the next hour, they began to piece together the story. The Commodore then found himself in his private briefing room, talking to the Emperor.

‘It’s about time Commodore, what is happening?’

‘The news isn’t good Sire. It would seem that your team has been captured by the Humans.’

‘I think that much is obvious by now. Captured or killed.’

‘We don’t know, they are being uncooperative. A few hours ago the Human training ship requested an emergency resupply from the Human supply ships.’

‘You let them?’

‘I had no idea it was happening Sire, none of my people did. Your team told no one in operations what they were doing. They gained access to the Human ship using a remote terminal. The Humans were asked why they wanted a resupply so late at night, but they gave a reasonable explanation. In reality, they could have left the station hours ago, and no one would have been any the wiser. The training vessel is a top spec vessel Sire, and could well have reached the barrier before we intercepted.’

Ne´ sat back and began rapping orders at another screen. He studied the results. He then rapped out more orders at it, and studied those results.

‘We have at least three groups that could have cut them off before they reached the great barrier, even with a good head start. Their other option would have been to try and reach the Modloch home world and join their fleets there. That looked like their better option, however, as a full member of the Federation, the Modloch would have to turn them over. As the Human fleet lies within their territory, they would have little option but to comply, or the Modloch would have had to force them.’

‘They have shown no other signs of departing Sire. We made an enquiry on their systems, but were immediately locked out.’

‘They have isolated themselves.’

‘It looks that way Sire.’

‘Strange, but very interesting.’

The Emperor made another enquiry and then smiled.

‘It would seem I have been out-manoeuvred Commodore.’

‘How so Sire?’

‘As long as they are they are tethered to our station, we still have to treat them as guests. I do believe they have no intentions of moving.’

‘Can we assault them Sire?’

‘Have you scanned the vessel?’

‘Yes Sire. They are at action stations. Every entry point is being guarded.’

‘There are protocols and procedures for hostile guests Commodore, begin to carry them out.’

‘Yes Sire. What about our men?’

‘If they are smart, they won’t even admit to having them. We will either have to wait for the Humans to contact us or begin diplomatic enquiries ourselves.’

Chapter 20

Michael Montgomery had a look of bewilderment on his face. He shook his head.

‘What the hell happened?’

His chief aide took a deep breath, ‘A group of Federation soldiers stormed the Sir William Wallace, and tried to arrest the Captain and her dinner companions. They comprised three people from the Ambassador’s crew: Captain Murison, Lady Mya, and her escort. They were able to overpower the boarding party and now have them under arrest on board the Sir William Wallace.’

‘Why did they board the ship in the first place?’

‘We aren’t sure yet. Captain Wilson believes it is to try and undermine her authority as a female Captain. She has faced a lot of prejudice since arriving at Federation One, from almost every Federation officer she has come across.’

‘Did she say that in her communique?’

‘No Sir, we know that from reports sent in from our other units, I was just backing up her statement. The Federation has very strict rules against fraternisation between serving personnel of opposite sexes. Despite the fact that neither Captain Wilson or Ambassador Gordon’s crew are members of the Federation, they still followed Federation protocol to the letter. They did so as a courtesy, as both were guests.’

‘So where is the problem?’ The President asked.

‘We aren’t sure Sir. This all happened a couple of hours ago now. Captain Wilson asked for an emergency resupply and was given what she asked for.’

‘Is she going to leave?’

‘She is waiting for instructions from us Sir, but advises against it.’

‘Why?’

‘She thinks it will cause us even greater problems. She sent us a link, a Federation document that governs the treatment of hostile guests,’ he nodded towards one of the other men, ‘Martin has been scrutinising the document.’

The President turned towards Martin, ‘Well?’

‘The document is very long, and very complicated. However, they will be safe for the time being. Once they have been declared as a hostile guest there is a set process that comes into being. A team will be sent out by the Federation to investigate both side’s grievances. This will also give our side time to investigate and prepare a defence, should it come to their version of a court. The moment she undocks from that station the  gloves come off, and the Federation will have the right to detain at will, including destroying the vessel should it resist.’

‘Get a message to Captain Wilson, tell her under no circumstances is she to leave the station.’

One of his aides rushed out.

The President rubbed his face, ‘Right, tell me what the Federation are saying about this?’

‘Not a thing Sir. Not even a peep so far,’ his Chief aide admitted.

‘Nothing?’ the President frowned.

‘Not a thing.’

‘That is strange.’

‘We have, of course, been in touch with our other assets in the area, it is as though they haven’t got a clue what is happening. Routine on the station is carrying on as usual.’

‘Could the boarding party have been acting on their own?’

Almost all of his aides were shaking their heads, ‘I doubt it Sir,’ his chief admitted.

‘This is beginning to reek of political intrigue. We will find out soon enough though. Okay, get everyone up, the shit is about to hit the fan. We need to be ready for this. Is there anything else?’

‘Yes Sir, Captain Wilson informed us that three of the boarding party were hurt, two of them seriously. They are doing what they can just now but believe they will need help very soon. They don’t have the expertise to help aliens.’

Martin tapped his notepad, ‘We can request medical aid through political channels. I would advise the Captain to keep her prisoners alive until then, but not to let go of them.’

Chapter 21

‘Mr President, I am Commodore Borach No, overall Commander of Federation One.’

‘What can I do for you at this time of the evening Commodore?’

‘I am afraid there has been an incident regarding one of your ships that has been berthed here.’

‘I am well aware of the incident Commodore, what the hell are you people playing at?’

‘I am not at liberty to say Sir, I apologise for that. It is my duty to inform you however, that The Sir William Wallace has been designated as a hostile guest of the Federation. I am afraid I am not at liberty to say anything more.’

‘May I say something Commodore?’

‘It may be wiser if you didn’t.’

‘In that case, some of your people may well die.’

‘Please do not threaten us Mr President.’

‘I am not threatening you Commodore. Three of your people were injured during their assault on our vessel, two of them seriously. The medical staff on the Sir William Wallace do not have the expertise to deal with the casualties.’

The Commodore stiffened visibly, ‘I can arrange to have them transferred immediately.’

‘Not a chance Commodore. One of those injured is the officer in charge, and we are not releasing him. You can make a request through official channels. I would advise you to be quick.’

The screen went blank and Borach leaned back in his high-backed chair.

‘Damn you Man Dei!’ He took a deep breath and got in touch with the team that was hastily being assembled to investigate the incident. He hoped that at least one of them was on the ball.

A little under an hour later, a small medical team was escorted onto the Sir William Wallace. David Black met them at the air lock and introduced himself.

‘Good morning, my name is David Black and I am the second in command of the Sir William Wallace. The Captain sends her regrets that she cannot accompany you herself, she is rather busy.’

‘That does not surprise me, David. I am Chief Surgeon here at Federation One, Onag Parie. Please lead the way.’

After quickly being scanned for weapons, the medical team was taken to the ship’s hospital. The three casualties were under heavy guard. Onag’s eyes quickly scanned the treatment room.

He turned to the ship’s Chief Medical Officer.

‘You have a diagnostic table, and everything else you need to treat these soldiers. Why haven’t you?’

James Andrews flushed with embarrassment, ‘We have no idea how to use it.’

‘Then how do you treat your own people?’

‘With equipment we brought from Earth.’

Onag looked down his nose at James, ‘You and I need to talk when all this is over.’

James took a deep breath, ‘Yes Sir.’

‘Those mattresses the patients are lying on look very comfortable. Remove them at once.’

‘Yes Sir.’

James ordered his staff around, and the mattresses and sheets were soon removed from the treatment tables. Onag pressed a small button and a display on the wall came to life; James was fascinated. Another press of a button made a section float free from the wall. Onag pulled it down to eye level. It was still attached to the wall by a thin flexible wire.

‘Are we watching?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Good, pay attention Doctor. The table is a diagnostic device, this is simply a reader,’ the reader came to life, ‘I am going to presume that you can’t read anything on this device.’

‘Not a word Sir.’

Onag shook his head sadly, ‘I have been expecting this kind of problem for a while now. Unfortunately command doesn’t think the training of Human Doctors is a priority. The first thing you need to do is tell the table what race you are treating. It can work it out for itself, and sometimes when you have a hybrid of two different races, the process can become quite complicated. However for today, I will simplify it.’

He indicated a list of what looked like hieroglyphs, ‘You can’t read this, so press this symbol here. As you can see, a selection of symbols have appeared. Each symbol represents a different race. You obviously don’t know what symbol represents which race. So!’

He bent over the patient and tugged at his left sleeve. It revealed a small circular metal button with a symbol on it. A sharp tug snapped it free. He placed it against a small blank circle on the reader.

‘If the patient is unlucky enough to have his left arm blown off, there is one on his right boot,’ the screen leapt to life, ‘This is the patient’s race. Every race has a different symbol. Push this button to begin the diagnostic. Of course you won’t be able to read the results. However, as a Doctor, I am sure you will recognise most of the injuries as they come up. Once you become full Federation members, a team will liaise with the top Doctors and surgeons from your race to provide you with a translation in your own language.

‘The language displayed on screen is the standard recognised language of the Federation. It is not a spoken language, it is a written one. Every member of the Federation force has to learn to read it. Now what is this?

‘Has this officer been tortured?’

‘Of course not, what makes you say that?’

Onag didn’t reply, ‘The patient is an Albany male. He is unconscious. His injuries include five broken ribs, concussion, and a broken snout. His unconscious states is the result of blood poisoning from the broken bones, not the concussion. Beginning treatment.’

Beneath Man Dei, the table came to life. Onag went to the next table, leaving one of his people to watch over the first patient.

‘Were any of your people injured in the affray?’ Onag asked James.

‘No Sir.’

‘This patient has been beaten to a pulp.’

James took a deep breath, ‘This patient struck one of our female members, the Lady Mya. Her guard was maybe a little over zealous in retribution.’

‘How many guards did she have?’

‘Just the one Sir.’

‘Wait! One Human did this?’

‘Yes Sir, and another was responsible for the injuries suffered by the other two.’

‘What weapons did they use?’

‘Just their fists, maybe their feet.’

‘Are you trying to tell me that Humans can inflict these sorts of injuries just with their hands and feet?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Ridiculous.’

He said no more and began to treat the patient. When they moved onto the last patient, the angle of his legs left little doubt as to what was wrong.

‘Activate the bed please.’

Andrew did as ordered, using the species ID badge from the trooper’s uniform.

‘Well done, you learn quickly Doctor. I think, however, that this patient’s injuries are pretty obvious. You haven’t even straightened or splinted his legs.’

‘He wouldn’t let us touch him.’

‘I see. Could you show me the equipment that you would have used?’

James looked at the patient, who was wide awake and suffering, then at the surgeon. It was obvious the Doctor wanted to talk to the patient without a Human presence. He wasn’t supposed to leave them alone, but he also realised that it just might be the right thing to do at that moment.

‘I will go fetch one of our splints Sir.’

‘Thank you.’

As soon as he was out of earshot, Onag turned to the trooper, ‘I have been fully briefed, tell me what happened when you got on board the ship.

‘It is embarrassing Sir.’

‘I don’t care, tell me.’

‘We were taken out by two unarmed male Humans.’

‘How is that possible?’

‘I have no real idea of what happened Sir, it was so fast. We burst into the Captain’s cabin and tried to arrest her. The woman who was acting as chaperone stepped forward and claimed to be a Lady of the Royal Modloch Household. The trooper you just treated swatted her away like she was an insect. The next thing I know the males pounced. They crashed right into us. The Colonel went down first, then I was kicked so hard both my legs were broken. Others were tossed around like leaves on the wind. When we came to our senses, the Captain had a weapon trained on us. We were ordered to lay down, we obeyed. Within a few minutes, an armed guard appeared and dragged us off to cells. The three of us ended up in here.’

‘Were you tortured?’

‘No Sir, none of us were. We received these injuries in the initial conflict.’

‘That is hard to fathom trooper.’

The trooper closed his eyes, ‘With respect Sir, I really don’t care.’

‘We will have to operate, your bones have been shattered. Awake or asleep trooper?’

‘Asleep Sir.’

‘I understand,’ he pushed a few buttons and the trooper slipped into unconsciousness.

James Andrews appeared with the inflatable splints.

‘These are what we use Sir.’

Onag barely glanced at them, ‘They are far too small for purpose.’

James handed them to an orderly. ‘In that case Sir, did you find out what you wanted to know?’

Onag eyed the Human Doctor coldly, ‘It would seem your version of events was accurate Doctor.’

James simply nodded. He was then asked to participate in the operation.

The operation took the best part of an hour. It was a crash course for the Human Doctor, not only on the anatomy of an alien being, but on how to work the equipment he had at his disposal.

Onag hadn’t been too sure how much use the Human would be to begin with, but was quickly impressed by his dexterity. Onag set the treatment bed to feed the patient medication, he was unsuccessful.

‘These beds need medication Doctor Andrews.’

‘I am afraid I am at a loss Sir. We had no idea what these tables were capable of, let alone how to stock them.’

‘Stolen technology always comes at a price. It is the price of ignorance.’

‘I understand that Sir, but we were left with little choice.’

‘I understand that too. There is a complete embargo on supplying your ship with anything, however I may well be able to swing some medication because it is for Federation troops. I shall put in a request and wait to see what happens.’

‘We didn’t even know the beds could administer medication.’

‘I wouldn’t try it. It takes months to learn about these beds, how to resupply them properly, how to use them. There are training manuals, but there are also specialists who train personnel on their use. I will have to add this to the growing list of requirements for the Humans serving with the Federation.’

‘I will say on the behalf of all Doctors on this side of the barrier, thank you.’

‘You did a good job today Doctor Andrews, your hands are very nimble.’

‘Nice of you to say so Sir. I doubt I am anything special in the world of medicine.’

‘Still, if this matter is resolved amicably, I would like you to come visit me. I could give you some invaluable training.’

‘I appreciate that Sir. However, I see little chance of that at this time. Even if the matter is cleared up, I doubt if we would be allowed to remain.’

‘I wouldn’t worry about it too much Doctor. In the world of the Federation, things aren’t always the way they seem to be. If you will excuse me, I need to make a call now.’

Chapter 22

Man Dei came to consciousness slowly. He could feel the hardness of a treatment table below him, and saw a familiar face above.

He had to swallow a few times before he could speak.

‘Doctor Onag, are we back on board the station?’

‘You have come to Colonel, thought we were going to lose you there. No, you are still on board the Human ship. Still a prisoner. They requested medical help; luckily for you. Now lie back and rest, you are going to take a while to recover.

When he came to again, the table beneath him had been replaced by a soft mattress. For a moment he hoped he was on an open ward. A quick look around told him the truth of his situation; he was in a cell. He closed his eyes again.

It took him a while to find the energy to waken up properly. Once he did, he sat up. There was a small table and chair. On it was a bale of hay and a pitcher of water. He went over and ate his fill. The toilet in the corner was barely big enough for him, but he used it anyway.

The hours began to pass slowly. He fell asleep again. When he woke, the lights had been turned off. He ate again and went back to sleep. After a few days had passed, he began to feel his energy come back. In the morning, a few guards arrived with a fresh bale of hay and fresh water. He was given a brush and forced to clean out his cell. His guards said little apart from to issue orders.

Man Dei grew nervous as the days began to pass with the same routine. He expected to be interrogated, but that never transpired. The days began to turn into weeks, and the enforced loneliness began to eat away at him. He demanded to see the Captain, but his requests were ignored. One day the second in command came to see him. Man Dei was just pleased to have company, someone he could talk to. David Black, however, refused to engage him in conversation. He informed him that the Sir William Wallace was now considered a hostile guest of the Federation. As the issue refused to resolve itself, they were faced with being forced to take him to Earth to stand trial. Man Dei knew he had just been handed a death sentence. His only hope now was Emperor Ne´ Langus.

Chapter 23

Emperor Ne´ Langus watched the chief surgeon bow low before him.

‘How are my men Doctor?’

‘They are recovering now Sire.’

Ne´ picked up the pad in front of him, ‘Is this report accurate?’

‘It is Sire. I omitted nothing. It is exactly as the trooper said.’

‘Man Dei did not regain consciousness at all?’

‘Only for a brief moment Sire. He inquired about his whereabouts, he did not say anything else.’

‘Will he recover?’

‘He will make a full recovery, but it was touch and go for a while.’

‘Blood poisoning from his injuries?’

‘Yes Sire.’

‘Two Human males and a female took out the whole troop!’

‘Yes Sire. Unbelievable I know, but I didn’t see any reason the trooper would lie. It would seem the men distracted the troopers long enough for the female to get hold of a weapon. They then obeyed their orders and lay down.’

‘What kind of men are these that would take on a whole troop, unarmed, and defeat them?’

‘They belong to the Human Goodwill Ambassador.’

‘I am aware of that Doctor. I have a report from Man Dei himself on them. I haven’t actually read it. I thought it of no importance.’

The Emperor sought out the communication, ‘Here it is,’ he read through it. ‘Unbelievable.’

The Doctor was curious, ‘What is it Sire?’

‘It would seem that the Ambassador’s men are not only well trained, they are all something a little special. Something the Humans refer to as special forces. Man Dei did a little investigating at the bequest of his Commanders. It would seem that the Humans take the best soldiers and train them to a much higher standard than normal soldiers. These men are fitter, stronger, and smarter than a normal trooper would expect to be.

‘It says here that many of these special soldiers work in small groups that specialise in going behind enemy lines and disrupting enemy communication and supply routes. They often take on enemy forces far larger than themselves and defeat them.’

‘I don’t understand the concept Sire.’

‘I would not expect you to Doctor. It is rare to find a race that actually fights on the ground. We fight in space. The winner takes all. The losers leave the planet, or whatever they were fighting over, and gives it to the victor. No more conflict. This type of warfare is almost unknown to us.’

‘So they are used to fighting in small numbers against far greater number?’

‘Yes Doctor, I suppose for people like that, a troop of normal troopers may well offer no real challenge or threat. I find it fascinating.’

‘I find it frightening Sire.’

‘It would seem that even their own kind find these sort of soldiers frightening.’

Chapter 24

‘I tell you whit laddie. If you can jump higher than me, I will let you off for the rest of the day, and your platoon. If you can’t, then you all go round this assault course five more times.’

The six foot five giant looked at Charlie bewildered for a moment, then burst out laughing.

‘No problem Sir.’

Charlie knew the type, a natural born bully, big beefy and loud. He had been moaning since they arrived at the assault course. Cookie was trying his hardest not to burst out laughing.

The giant spat on his fingers and leapt high. He slapped the wall and made a wet mark. The men behind him hooted with delight.

‘There you go Sir, beat that.’

Charlie sniffed, ‘You sure you don’t want another try at it?’

‘Why?’

‘Well that’s not very high is it? If I was you, I would try again, and put in a supreme effort.’

The cocky grin began to fade as the soldier realised that Charlie wasn’t joking.

‘Okay Sir. One more.’

This time he put everything into it. The wet mark was almost six inches above the first.

Charlie nodded, ‘That’s a lot better, good effort.’

A second later Charlie leapt so high he was able to grab the top of the wall and pull himself up. He looked down at the upturned disbelieving faces.

‘You lot owe me five times round this assault course. Don’t make me come down there and boot your arseholes.’

Cookie had howled with laughter, now it turned to a snarl, ‘Move it, you heard the officer, shift it.’

The luckless Marines began to move. Charlie sat on the wall and shouted encouragement, Cookie chased them round and round the assault course. By the time they had done it five more times they were exhausted. Cookie dismissed them and Charlie leapt down from the wall.

Cookie slapped Charlie on the shoulder, ‘Man that was one of the funniest things I have ever seen in my life. The looks on their faces.’

‘I used to do that to the Modloch when the Sarge and I were training them. They actually used to roll about laughing when I proposed the challenge.’

‘A Modloch could reach that height no problem.’

‘Aye, we built the walls up for them.’

‘How did they take it?’

‘It was like listening to a herd of dairy cows bellowing to be milked.’

Cookie laughed again, ‘I think we are going to have a lot of fun here Charlie.’

‘Aye, but we are going to have trouble with that big fella.’

Cookie’s mouth took on a grim line, ‘Natural born bully.’

‘Aye, we need him broken or gone.’

‘What good is a broken man Charlie?’

‘Good point Cookie. The thing is he might not break, he might stand firm and take all the shit we can throw at him.’

‘I wouldna take a bet on that Charlie.’

‘Me neither.’

‘Funny isn’t it. Guys like him are always the first to break, but the guys they spend a life time bullying are always the ones who will stand fast.’

‘Doesn’t take much working out Cookie.’

Cookie gave Charlie a queer look, ‘Enlighten me, sir guru.’

‘Really? What a tit!’ Charlie snorted back.

‘I'm a lot smarter than you Charlie, and I have never been able to figure it out.’

‘You had someone that picked on you in school ‘cause you were wee right?’

‘Aye, more than one.’

‘You still went to school the next day didn’t you?’

‘Did I have a choice?’

‘You could have skived off.’

‘Aye,’ Cookie scratched the back of his neck, ‘I suppose I could have, some did.’

‘Ye didna though.’

‘No.’

‘You went back into the maelstrom of bullying, day after day after day; weeks, months years.’

‘A couple of years, then I leathered the bastard.’

‘You learned to cope, to overcome, to fight back. To stand there with shit filling your boots egging the bastard to come on, not caring any longer if you got a beating or no.’

‘Aye I suppose, and once I had thrashed one, I realised they weren’t so tough as they were making out.’

‘Aye, well that’s where courage comes from Cookie.’

‘Nae seeing it yet Charlie.’

‘For God’s sake man! Going back day after day, knowing you were going to get the shit kicked out of you, learning to take a beating, then learning to fight back. That takes guts Cookie, guts, determination, courage.’

‘Ah, I see what you are getting at now Charlie. I never really thought about it like that.’

‘It was something a guy told me years ago.’

‘Knew it wasna an original thought.’

Charlie stopped dead in his tracks, ‘You know I can use you like a fitba, right?’

‘Only ‘cause yer a robot now. Ye couldn’t beat me when you were Human,’ Cookie laughed.

‘I bloody could.’

‘Shite! I thrashed you at everything.’

‘No ye didna. I beat you heaps of times.’

‘No in a straight race Charlie.’

‘I’ll give you that one, but I’ve beat you on the ranges, and on assault courses.’

‘Once in a blue moon!’

‘It might have been once in a blue moon Cookie, but I still beat you now and then.’

‘The only time you beat me on the ranges was when there was beer up for grabs.’

‘I shared the beer with you.’

Cookie frowned, ‘Why was that Charlie?’

‘Why was what?’

‘It just occurred to me that you always won the beer.’

‘I suppose I did. I don’t know. I just like beer.’

The pair of them shrugged it off.

‘What time does the next platoon come in Charlie?’

‘We got fifteen minutes.’

The pair sat down on a long bench and drank from bottles of water. Both were lost in their own thoughts for a while.

‘What do you think about the situation we’re in now Charlie. Have you heard from Jean?’

‘Not a peep in days. As far as I know, the situation hasn’t changed any.’

‘That investigative team from the Federation arrives the morn. That will probably stir things up.’

Charlie shrugged, ‘Maybe.’

‘Ye dinna seem very concerned Charlie.’

‘Why would I be Cookie? I’m a soldier doing a job.’

‘No the job we are meant to be doing.’

Again Charlie shrugged, ‘I do what I’m told to do Cookie, and think no more of it than that. Last week I was protecting the Ambassadors, this week I’m training troops, next week I may well be fighting. Either way I don’t give a shit buddy. When you join the army, your will is no longer you own. Your life depends on the whims of others: politicians, generals, you know.’

‘Aye, but we started it this time, and we’re right in the middle of it.’

‘It has nothing to do with us Cookie, trust me. This is purely political, we were no more than a tool, a means to a political end. What they didn’t expect was for us to hold all the cards. We are the ones who should be in a cell somewhere within the Federation. Earth should be fighting for our release, not the other way around.’

‘Will it make a difference?’

‘Not really Cookie. I think we are in a better place for having captured the snatch team, but in the political scheme of things, not a hellava lot.’

‘I don’t get it Charlie.’

‘We arna supposed to Cookie, it’s well above our pay grade.’

‘You mean just do our jobs, like nothing has happened.’

‘Exactly, just exactly that.’

‘I'm no happy about it Charlie.’

‘Nobody said you had to be. We will be interviewed though. If you give off the impression that you were doing anything other than your job, you will dig Humanity into a deeper hole. You were there protecting the Imperial Lady, you were her designated guard. When she was struck, you acted in accordance with your orders and protected her life with yours. End of. I was having a dinner with a friend of equal rank and status. End of. When the Lady Mya was struck, I too jumped to her defence. I am a member of the Ambassador’s guard as well, and unofficial escort. It lies within my orders to protect a member of the Royal Modloch Household.’

‘Does it?’

Charlie gave Cookie a push, ‘Wake up you dozy shit.’

‘Aye dinna panic Charlie, I got it. No snogging on the couch, no banter, no sexual innuendoes.’

‘You got it.’

A platoon of young men and women then filtered into the gymnasium. The two cast their professional eye over them.

‘Likely looking bunch,’ Cookie decided.

‘Aye, and on time,’ Charlie agreed.

The platoon were called into three ranks by one of their training NCOs.

‘Got something a little different for you today. The two men behind you were both on the initial assault of the Albany City ship. It was these men that devised ways of infiltrating the ship, and both fought from the first minute to the last. You will listen to them, you will learn from them,’ He stood them at ease and marched over to Charlie and Cookie.

His eyes flicked between the two, ‘Captain Murison,’ Charlie nodded and he saluted, ‘Rhine platoon ready for you Sir.’

‘They look like junior soldiers.’

‘They are Sir, the first to be trained in space.’

Charlie read the braided name patch on his uniform. ‘Thank you Corporal Drellingcourt. That was a nice introduction.’

‘Well, you are fellow Gordons, and it is true.’

‘What company were you in?’ Charlie asked.

‘A company, but I got into the fight late, just the last couple of days with the reinforcements. I was on a course.’

‘I’ve seen you going about. Drelli, that’s what they call you, right?’

‘That’s me Sir. A quick promotion was it Sir?’

‘Quick? It was more like a boot in the arse.’

Drelli laughed, ‘Well it doesn’t sound like it has gone to your head. Look after them for me will you.’

‘Look after them,’ Charlie grinned, ‘I’m going to turn them into pieces of rubber.’

Chapter 25

The investigative team were a group of Evolka. Ambassador Tran Tran sat with his deputy and watched Federation One grow quickly out of the viewing port of his shuttle.

Trin Gin cocked his head slightly, ‘At least it will have proper environmental facilities.’

The Ambassador knew he was referring to their recent mission on a remote and very hot planet.

‘It will stink of metal, lubricants and bad recirculated air, Gin. The bunks will be adequate at best, the food, standard Federation rations.’

‘Still, it is an unusual situation. We will also finally be able to meet some Humans.’

‘Our race did not support their bid.’

‘With respect Sir, our race has never supported the bid of any race.’

‘The first meat eaters to join the Federation,’ Tran mused, ‘Very unusual. Are you frightened Gin?’

Gin was surprised by the question, ‘No Sir, why would I be?’

‘They are meat eaters.’

‘They have proved to be a formidable foe to those who have gone against them, but so far, they have, in my opinion, proven themselves to be an advanced and civilised race. There are no incidents where the Humans have tried to harvest meat of any kind on this side of the great barrier. They survive on sub species of animals from their own world, the type of species that most of our worlds eradicated many years ago.’

‘You sound like you admire them Gin.’

Gin rolled his eyes, ‘Of course nor Sir. I am merely stating facts.’

‘Never forget that it is the way we present facts that makes the difference to every case.’

‘I will not forget Sir.’

The Ambassador stood with a great sigh, ‘We had better prepare ourselves.’

‘Yes Sir.’

Trin Gin wanted to watch the approach for a little longer, but the Ambassador had seen it too many times before. He had never been to Federation One before, but every Federation space station was constructed in exactly the same way, and apart from a few identifying markings dotted around the outside of the station, each and every one were identical.

Within a very short period of time, they were being shown into the Commander’s office.

Commodore Borach No stood as the Ambassador entered.

‘Ambassador Tran Tran of the investigatory team, Sir,’ his secretary announced.

‘I must presume you are Commodore Borach No?’

‘Yes Ambassador,’ Borach No dipped his head briefly.

‘Your rudeness has been duly noted Commodore. I may not be a planetary Ambassador, but I am still due the courtesy my rank offers me, and I expect it.’

‘Your arrival coincided with a meeting with the Grand Commander, Ambassador.’

‘In that case, I shall not make a complaint.’

‘Would you like to rest after your journey Ambassador?’

‘The journey is our rest Commander. Do you have any more facts on this case?’

‘Little more than what has been sent to you Ambassador.’

The Ambassador looked around, ‘May I sit?’

‘I have a lounge area for informal meetings.’

‘That would be perfect.’

He followed the Commodore through to the lounge area. Once they had made themselves comfortable, the Commodore sent for refreshments. Once they were delivered, he dismissed all of the other staff.

It did not escape the Ambassador’s attention.

‘It would seem you wish to talk to me in private Commodore, this may not be wise.’

‘Off the record, before this investigation starts Sir.’

‘The investigation started the moment we received the files.’

‘I don’t care, this case has the potential to embarrass the Federation.’

‘Have you made your views clear to your superiors?’

‘Yes Sir, it was what my meeting with the Emperor was about, as you arrived.’

‘You stated these objections to the Emperor himself?’

‘Yes Sir.’

Tran Tran thought it over, ‘Then there is no need to rerecord these views Commodore, I will treat this as an off the record discussion.’

‘Thank you Sir.’

‘So you believe that this incident has the potential to embarrass the Federation? Is this your objection?’

‘Yes Sir, it is.’

‘I have to agree with you Commodore, after reading the files, it is a truly perplexing case. The Humans had no need to inform us of the meeting between the Captain and this other officer of equal rank. I can only assume from the data that the Human male, as part of an Ambassadorial team himself, was being extremely vigilant in his duties.’

‘That is the conclusion that I and my own team have come up with Sir.’

‘The orders for the boarding party came from the Emperor himself, is that right?’

‘Yes Sir, I had no idea what had happened until long after the incident was over.’

‘To make it even more ridiculous, one of the Humans is reputed to be a Lady of the Royal Modloch Court.’

‘I am afraid that is true Ambassador. The Lady Mya.’

‘How could that possibly come about?’

‘Do you know the story of the Burning Wind and its late Commander?’

‘I think the entire galaxy is aware of that story by now. He is buried on Earth.’

‘A little known part of the story is how he met a young Human female on his journey. It would seem he became infatuated with her.’

‘Fascinating.’

‘Having no heirs, he bequeathed his lands, property and title to this female. She actually serves as part of Ambassador Gordon’s crew.’

‘Yes, the Goodwill Ambassador from Earth.’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Is she a part of the Ambassadors team?’

‘I believe she works in the kitchen, if rumours are to be believed.’

‘You are not making this up are you Commodore?’

‘No Sir. Is it something you could make up?’

‘When fact is stranger than fiction…’

They shared a small smile. The Ambassador suddenly felt a stirring of genuine interest in this case and fell into deep thought. The Commodore held his peace. Eventually the Ambassador stood.

‘Even though I believe as you do Commodore, I am going to investigate this incident thoroughly.’

‘Why Sir?’

‘A number of reasons Commodore. I wish to see if this incident is as innocent as it seems. The only thing I can see any tribunal latching on to, is intent. Did the two Captains intend to mate? Was this a precursor, a first step in a mating ritual that we are unaware of?’

‘I understand Sir, it was a thought that had occurred to me. The big question is, even if it was, what the hell has it got to do with us?’

‘Absolutely nothing, yet our superiors seem to be trying to make something out of it,’ the Ambassador took a deep breath, ‘I may well have overstepped my boundaries there.’

‘This conversation never took place Sir.’

With a greater understanding of each other, the Ambassador took his leave.

Chapter 26

Jean felt herself begin to seethe inside, not only did she have to subject herself to the indignity of this investigation, but the long-robed Ambassador had barely taken his eyes off her breasts since they had sat down.

‘Ambassador, my eyes are up here.’

His eyes swivelled independently up to meet hers, ‘I see, you find it offensive.’

‘I have come to expect it from those of my own race Ambassador, not so much from an alien species,’ she thought he looked a bit like a Chameleon in the way those eyes moved independently of each other.’

‘What are they for?’

‘Don’t the females of your race have breasts to feed their young?’

‘Ah, I see, like the udders of other races. We regurgitate food to feed our young. At least at one time we did. Now we manufacture food specifically for our young. Do the males of your species find them attractive?’

‘I don’t see what this has got to do with the incident Ambassador and, quite frankly, I am very quickly becoming offended. If you insist on this line of questioning I will kick your arse off my ship.’

‘The Federation has accused you and the male Captain of indecency Captain Wilson. I am unfamiliar with your race and am trying to find a baseline from which to work: what is considered acceptable and unacceptable to your race, versus what is acceptable and not acceptable in the Federation, and within Federation rules.’

‘We are not part of the Federation Ambassador and to be quite frank once again, I don’t care either. I will quite happily blast a hole clean through this station if that’s what it takes.’

‘Then you would die and take your crew along with you Captain. You may well destroy the station, but you would commit an act of war. I have been informed that the Federation has already manoeuvred forces to block any attempt at escape. Is your pride worth the lives of your crew?’

‘No of course not Ambassador, however, at this moment my crew feel threatened and are willing to fight. I can assure you that the core of my staff are all seasoned veterans, and more than capable of fighting against much greater odds.’

‘You say your whole crew feels threatened Captain?’

‘Yes Sir, I do.’

‘Then let us conclude this as quickly as possible. What happened on the night in question?’

It took almost an hour of frustrating questions for Jean to explain exactly what happened on that night.

‘What I would like now, Captain, is details of your personal feelings towards this Captain Murison.’

‘That is none of your damn business.’

‘I am afraid it is.’

‘No it isn’t. I am not a part of the Federation, I will not discuss my feelings about anyone.’

‘You have been asked to cooperate.’

‘I am, and have done, now if you are finished…’

‘I am not. As far as I can see Captain, you have broken no rules. Federation oppositionists to the Human bid will more than likely scream intent. I have to check for intent from both parties.’

‘My only intent was to have dinner with a friend, nothing else Ambassador.’

‘I see, and how long have you known the Captain?’

‘None of your business.’

‘Hostility is not helping.’

‘I don’t care Ambassador. It is none of your business, or the Federation’s.’

‘Is the Captain attracted to you?’

Jean was a little surprised by the question, ‘The Captain and I met on operations, the details of which are classified. He is not attracted to me.’

‘I see, thank you for your cooperation Captain.’

Chapter 27

‘Captain Murison, I have it from Captain Wilson, that it was yourself that posted the details of your meeting.’

‘That’s right.’

‘Why?’

‘I am a member of the Goodwill Ambassador’s staff. As such, I believe it only polite to follow rules when visiting foreign parts.’

‘It was also very courteous of you Captain, and that has been noted.’

‘So where is the major malfunction here?’

‘I have no idea Captain. I am merely following instructions. I will say, however, that you did the right thing. If the powers that be, which are making such a strong issue out of this, actually discovered that this meeting had taken place, it would be an entirely different type of enquiry.’

‘Bearing in mind that it still isn’t any of the Federation’s business.’

‘I am assuming that they are doing this to test the morality of the Human race. I cannot see any other reason at all.’

‘Well bash on then.’

‘How did you and the Captain meet?’

‘On an operation.’

When Charlie failed to continue, the Ambassador prompted, ‘And?’

‘The details of which are classified and none of your business, or the Federation’s.’

‘I don’t need the specifics of the operation Captain, only the specifics of how your relationship has developed.’

‘It hasn’t.’

‘Sorry?’

‘Other than friendship, our relationship hasn’t developed.’

‘Can you be more specific.’

Charlie shook his head, ‘Not really, no. It is what it is.’

‘Do you find Captain Wilson attractive? Before you answer that question, know that I have asked many Human males what they think of the Captain.’

‘Captain Wilson is very attractive, she just isn’t my type.’

‘I don’t understand.’

‘I prefer demure women.’

‘Ah! I am beginning to see. You do not like aggressive females.’

‘No.’

‘I whole heartedly agree with you on a personal level Captain. I fail to understand how a relationship formed, if there was no attraction on either side.’

‘Mutual admiration Sir. Captain Wilson is a noted fighter pilot. She comes from the same country as I do. The nearest you would come to a country is maybe a district.’

‘Ah yes, you Humans have a great diversity, you are all Humans, yet you claim to be of different races, sub-races as it were.’

‘I wouldn’t make that remark in front of too many Humans Sir, many may well become offended.’

‘How so?’

‘For there to be sub-races, then one must be a master race. World wars have been fought over such beliefs.’

‘I see, thank you for that Captain. Now you say that Captain Wilson is from the same race as yourself, and maybe lives within the same district.’

‘Yes Sir, we are all very proud of her.’

‘Are all her crew from the same race?’

‘Not all Sir, but most.’

‘Is that why they are all so fiercely loyal?’

‘Just one of many reasons Sir. Captain Wilson is greatly admired by many.’

‘She is a war hero.’

‘Exactly.’

‘So what did you do to earn her admiration Captain?’

‘I have no idea.’

‘Have you served in the same theatres of war?’

‘Yes.’

‘Obviously in different roles.’

‘Of course.’

‘Do you talk about these things.’

‘We talk about many things Ambassador, we are friends.’

‘Of course.’

‘Were you both Captains when you met?’

‘No, I was a Sergeant, a lower rank, but she was a Captain.’

‘I think that is a much lower rank.’

‘It is, about six ranks lower.’

‘Yet now you are of the same rank. You must have been promoted very quickly to catch up in rank to her.’

‘I was,’ Charlie didn’t bother telling him that they were not actually of the same rank, and that the army equivalent of Jean’s rank was more like a Lieutenant Colonel. They seemed happy enough to think they were the same.

‘Then you too must have done something quite extraordinary Captain,’ Charlie just shrugged the point off. ‘May I ask what your conversation on the night was about?’

‘Food mostly.’

‘That was it?’

‘Pretty much.’

The Ambassador scrolled through some notes, ‘Why did you attack the Federation troopers?’

‘Is that a joke?’

‘No Captain, it is a serious question.’

‘Not to me.’

‘Is violence the normal way you react in a situation like that?’

‘That’s the second stupid question you have asked me in a row. I am a soldier. I was confronted by armed intruders, they assaulted one of my crew mates. I attacked.’

‘Was that all the justification that you needed?’

‘Absolutely.’

‘Some may have problems with that.’

‘Then tell them to come and see me personally.’

The Ambassador felt a sudden thrill of alarm run through him.

‘The type of people that would have a problem with it would not lower themselves to talk to a mere soldier, Captain.’

‘That’s just exactly what I thought.’

The Ambassador was beginning to like this particular Human. ‘You are right Captain, they are not endued with personal courage or bravery. They fight with words. Is it the same on your planet?’

‘Pretty much. They run off their mouths, start a war, then leave it to people like me to fight it.’

‘You know this, yet you still fight?’

‘I didn’t realise it when I was very young. By the time I did, soldiering had become a calling, a way of life.’

‘And the Lady Mya?’

‘The Lady Mya is the crew mate that was attacked. She is also a member of the Royal Modloch Household. As a member of the Ambassador’s guard, it was my duty to protect her, even if it cost me my life.’

The Ambassador smiled inside, it was exactly the answer he had been wanting to hear.

‘That was the only answer that I required Captain. May I ask you how she became a member of the Royal Modloch Household?’

‘Why! Is it important?’

‘It isn’t a part of this enquiry Captain, just something I was personally curious about.’

‘I can only repeat what I have been told. I wasn’t present at the time.’

‘You joined the crew later?’

‘Yes. The Albany abducted many Humans over many years and stored them for use in their invasion of our solar system’

‘Oh dear, this is something I should not be discussing.’

‘This is off the record, isn’t it?’

‘Yes it is.’

‘Then why should it matter? If you want the story you need to know the background. What you care to believe is your own business.’

‘Of course, please go on.’

‘She was one of the people who had been abducted and stored for later use. She was actually born over a hundred Earth years ago, in a very primitive place. When she was a teenager, her home was invaded. At that time in our history a world war had broken out on our planet. It was a very violent and bloody war, and few escaped unharmed.

‘An officer from the invading army took a particular liking to her. Her father removed her from the village, and the officer, in his fury, killed everyone in the village and burned it to the ground. He eventually found her, and dragged her back to his barracks. When she discovered what had happened, she managed to kill the officer and escape. It was at the time she was recaptured that she was abducted.

‘After Ambassador Gordon had rescued her, along with the other abductees, she met, by chance, onboard the rescue vessel, the Captain of the Modloch battle cruiser. I don’t know his name. Ambassador Gordon told me that the Captain made some remark as he passed her and she chastised him for being rude,’ Charlie shrugged, ‘Something like that anyway. He was so impressed by her that he invited her to dinner many times. The Captain once said that if he had met a female of his own race, with her courage, her morals, manners and virtues, he would have married her.

‘When the Lady Mya finally returned home, she was a hundred years out of time. Her village, her people, family, had all perished many years before. When the Modloch Captain heard what had happened to her, he bequeathed all that was his to her. She is very popular in the Royal household. It would seem that they too see in her, what he saw.’

‘A remarkable story. Yes, the Captain of the vessel was actually an Admiral, and the favourite brother of the Modloch Emperor.’

Charlie nodded, ‘So I heard.’

‘I think I am looking forward to meeting this Lady.’

‘I like her.’

‘You do? Have you made any advances on her, to make her your mate?’

Charlie hesitated a moment before answering, ‘I haven’t, no.’

‘She would seem to be your type.’

‘I suppose she is. However, my personal circumstances at the moment leave me no thought as to taking a mate and having a family.’

‘What are those circumstances Captain?’

‘That’s one question too far Sir. That is neither your business, nor the Federation’s.’

‘It may well help in this investigation Captain, especially if your reasons leave you unable to copulate.’

Charlie burst out laughing, ‘I can see were you are coming from Sir, but I can assure you, I am perfectly capable of fathering children. My reasons are personal, and private.’

‘Then there is no need for me to ask you anymore questions Captain. You may take your leave.’

Chapter 28

Ambassador Tran Tran was having difficulty believing what he was seeing. The diminutive figure bowed low.

‘It is an honour to meet you Ambassador,’ she bowed low, then took his hand and pressed the knuckles against her forehead.

A strange feeling washed through him. He had met many races with strange customs throughout his long career. He realised that her actions were a form of respect, almost submissive in nature. This was the first time such a gesture had actually touched him deeply.

‘Lady Mya, please, may I greet you with the utmost forms of respect, from myself and my people,’ the words were out of his mouth before he could stop them. It was the first time he had actually meant those words.

‘The honour, Ambassador, is mine. May I apologise for causing you so many problems.’

‘You have caused me no problems my Lady, they pay me to do this.’

The head lifted and she smiled; he thought his heart was going to be crushed. Still reeling from the shock of the emotion, he bid her sit down, pulling out the seat for her himself.

‘Thank you Ambassador, you are very kind.’

It gave him a moment to collect his thoughts. His eyes flicked up to those of her escort. This Human was also small, yet danger lurked behind the cold eyes that watched every move he made. It brought Tran back to earth a little. He lingered for a moment on the strange power this child-like female had wielded on him, in only a few seconds. He now understood what the ill-fated Captain of the Burning Wind saw in this tiny female.

‘May I apologise for having to put you through this Lady Mya.’

‘You are simply doing your job Ambassador, I will assist in any way I can.’

‘Thank you. You chaperoned the two Captains, is that correct?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘You were asked to by Captain Murison I believe?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Did you mind performing these duties?’

‘I found it a strange request Sir.’

‘How so?’

‘We are from different parts of the world. Where I come from, it is the older women who are asked to chaperone a young couple, not someone of my age. That aside, where the Captains come from, the tradition of chaperones has been outdated for centuries. It is no longer a tradition.’

‘Are their morals different Lady Mya?’

‘To be honest Ambassador, I don’t believe they have any real morals. That is why I was so surprised. It also made me very proud of them, that they would consider the feelings of others.’

‘By others, you mean the Federation?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘I would like you to know that the consideration that the two Captains have shown for Federation principles has been duly noted and recorded.’

‘I am delighted to hear that Sir.’

The Ambassador checked his notes, ‘At this point, I am going to have to ask you more personal questions about the couple you were chaperoning.’

‘I will answer if I can Sir.’

‘Do you think the two Captains are a couple?’

‘No Sir. They are merely friends.’

‘You don’t think that Captain Murison is attracted to Captain Wilson?’

‘He can’t be…’ there was a discreet cough from behind. She went on, ‘I am so sorry Ambassador, they have asked me not to talk about personal matters. All I can say is I don’t think Captain Murison is capable of those kinds of feelings anymore.’

The Ambassador felt his consternation growing, ‘Was he in an accident, or something similar?’

‘I am sorry Ambassador, I really don’t know exactly what happened to him. All I know is that he was hurt very badly, and since then hasn’t shown any interest in that sort of thing.’

There was another discreet cough, which annoyed the Ambassador. There was one thing he was sure of, this female wasn’t lying.

‘So there was no relationship talk at all during the meal?’

‘None whatsoever.’

‘You could hear every word spoken?’

‘Yes Sir, very easily.’

‘Could you tell me what they were talking about?’

‘Food mainly, normal things I suppose. The sort of thing military people always talk about. Much of it I didn’t understand.’

‘Of course.’

‘What happened when the intruders burst into the room?’

‘It stipulated in my duties as a chaperone that it was my responsibility to prevent anyone interrupting the couple, as much as it was to watch over their conduct. When the soldiers burst into the room I challenged them and asked them to leave. I tried to stand between them, it was then that I was struck a blow by one of the soldiers. I was unconscious for a few moments Sir. When I came too, they had been subdued by my escort, and Captain Wilson had a hand gun trained on them.’

The Ambassador felt an upwelling of emotion from deep inside. His feelings of outrage towards the soldier that struck her were raw and unexpected. He desperately wanted to reach out and touch her, reassure her that she was now safe. He swiftly got them under control. To stand in front of an armed squad and confront them took a special type of courage. Now he believed the story that the Captain had told him.

‘Lady Mya, first let me apologise for the way in which you were treated, it shocks me. Neither shall I put you under any more duress with these questions.’

She bowed where she was sitting, ‘You are very kind Ambassador. Thank you very much.’

As he got up to see her to the door, she once more took his hand and raised it to her forehead. Again he felt a welling of strange emotions rise to the surface. He bowed almost as low and led her out of the door.

Chapter 29

It had taken a little more time for him to be able to see Cookie. Now those cold eyes stared back at him across the table.

‘May I ask how Lady Mya is doing?’

Cookie smiled, ‘She is doing well.’

‘That is good. You were her escort that evening?’

‘Yes I was.’

‘Did you also overhear everything that was being said by the two Captains?’

‘I did, and it is as you have been told.’

‘Would you like to say it for the record?’

‘They were talking shop and about food mainly.’

‘I am sorry, “shop”?’

‘A term we use for talking about one’s trade.’

‘I see. You also think there was no romantic interest between the two parties.’

‘None.’

‘The Federation will find it hard to believe that there is no romantic collusion.’

‘I don’t give a damn about what the Federation think.’

‘You are one of the Ambassador’s guards, are you not?’

‘No I’m not, I am one of his crew. Ambassador Gordon is also the Captain of the ship. I serve him in that capacity.’

‘Are you not a soldier?’

‘I am.’

‘You were chosen to guard the Lady Mya.’

‘I was ordered to act as her official escort.’

‘Yet you could not prevent her from being struck.’

‘She went straight for them, reached them before I could intervene or hold her back.’

‘Unfortunate.’

‘It isn’t my proudest moment.’

‘You then attacked the intruders.’

‘I did, along with Captain Murison.’

‘Have you known the Captain long?’

‘Twenty years, although we have only served about seven years together.’

‘Oh! You were in the same regiment?’

‘That is correct.’

‘Are you friendly?’

‘Yes we are.’

‘So what are your impressions of the Captain?’

‘Charlie is a friend of mine, a very good friend. To give you my impressions of him would be futile.’

‘In what way?’

‘They would be considered biased.’

‘You are, of course, correct. Could you shed any more light on the Captain’s accident?’

‘It wasn’t an accident, and no I can’t.’

‘An incident then?’

‘An incident would describe the events a little better.’

‘All I want to know is: is the Captain different to what he was before?’

‘You mean was he normal before? Would he have pursued the Captain in a romantic manner?’

‘Yes, exactly that.’

Cookie thought it over, ‘He probably would have. The thing is we all know who Captain Wilson is, and Captain Murison isn’t her only admirer. I too am a great admirer of Captain Wilson. I believe Charlie would have pursued her in a romantic manner, but in a manner that showed his respect for the woman and her rank.’

‘I believe I understand what you mean. What about now? Do you think that is impossible now, considering how well you know him?’

‘I don’t think it is impossible, more improbable.’

‘Is it a physical thing or a mental thing?’

‘Both.’

‘I am getting the impression that something very bad happened to the Captain.’

‘You wouldn’t be wrong.’

‘He has changed?’

‘A lot.’

‘Can you elaborate?’

‘I won’t.’

‘I see. You aren’t making it easy on me.’

‘That isn’t my job.’

The Ambassador was quite amused by the answer, ‘I see. Is there anything you can add that would help us understand the relationship between the two?’

Cookie thought it over, ‘On the operation that the two Captains met, Captain Wilson saved Captain Murison’s life. That is about as much as I can say.’

‘I see.’

‘He told me that she visited him every day in the infirmary until we were able to collect him.’

‘Was he badly injured?’

‘He was incapacitated.’

‘Can you give me nothing else?’

‘No, not really. What the Captain did was incredibly brave, I think she admired that. He was impressed by her care and consideration. He told me that himself.’

The Ambassador was nodding to himself in a very Human way.

‘Two brave souls met and friendship grew from mutual admiration.’

‘That, Ambassador, is probably the nicest way I have heard it put.’

‘It is what I am going to put in my report.’

‘Will it make any difference?’

‘I personally think it paints Humanity in a very bright light. Your people are very alien to us. For us to accept you, we have to discover the qualities that we have in common. Very few races let their females fight. In many ways you Humans are very primitive. From what I have seen, you seem very fixated on the baser things in life. You are ruled by emotions and hormones. Love, jealousy, hatred, these things are known about, but often frowned upon. Mutual admiration, friendship and respect are qualities that are admired within the Federation.’

‘Not all Humans are ruled by hormones and emotions.’

‘Would you consider yourself one of those?’

‘Yes.’

‘Then why did you almost beat that trooper to death?’

Cookie felt a jolt go through him. He had been caught out and knew it.

‘You are right, I was emotionally involved. I was angry, we Humans are also very protective of our females.’

‘Yet you let them fight.’

‘Those that want to fight are treated no differently to any other soldier, and they take their chances with the rest of us. The Lady Mya is not one of those.’

‘Yet she serves in the Ambassador’s crew.’

‘Not as a combatant. In reality, she had nowhere else to go. She is a hundred years out of time, the village she once stayed in no longer exists, she has no living family. All she has now is the crew and what she received from her benefactor. We are all very protective of her. I was angry at the trooper for striking her, angry for being caught out, angry at being unable to prevent her from getting hurt. So I hurt him and I hurt him badly, to serve as a warning to others who may have the same idea.’

‘You deliberately hurt the trooper.’

‘Yes I did.’

‘So that part at least was less emotional and more cold blooded.’

‘I suppose you could put it that way.’

‘I talked to him yesterday, I believe he got the message. The males from his race treat their females like chattels. He thought her a rude female child.’

‘I don’t care what he thought she was. If you treat a child like that on Earth, even your own, you are going to serve time in prison.’

‘It is an offence on Earth to hit a child?’

‘It is an offence on Earth to strike anyone, even more so a child.’

‘I did not realise that. You have that in common with most races. Violence is rarely acceptable, unless sanctioned by the proper authorities. There are some species that are a little more aggressive than others. The Modloch for one. It has been known for males of that race to lock horns in an argument, but they are more likely to attack those of another race when angered.’

‘I am well aware of that. I have spent quite a bit of time on their home planet.’

‘I did not know that. Still, I am happy that the Lady Mya is alright. She has a lot of courage.’

‘That is one of the things that draws people to her.’

‘I can see that for myself. That trooper must have towered over her. I would think twice about facing down a fully armed Federation trooper.’

Cookie smiled, ‘She never even hesitated, she went straight for them. Lady Mya takes her duties very seriously. She read and reread the appropriate documentation.’

‘What did she think of them?’

‘She had a wee chuckle at the rule concerning the eating of one’s hay from the same bowl, but other than that she thought they were very good, and proper.’

The Ambassador was amused, ‘I think that will be all for now. Please give the Lady Mya my best regards.’

‘I most certainly will.’

Chapter 30

Emperor Ne´ Langus went over the report with the Ambassador.

‘So you are saying that after weeks of investigation there are absolutely no charges that can be brought against the Humans?’

Tran Tran indicated the reader in the Emperor’s hands, ‘We found nothing Sire. There is nothing that the Federation can do. The Humans are innocent of all charges, and any that are falsely brought against them will fall flat.’

‘I find it hard to believe that there is absolutely nothing Ambassador.’

‘I do not deal in speculation Sire, only the facts, and those facts stand on their own.’

‘What did you think of these Humans?’

‘Are you asking for a personal opinion off the record Sire?’

‘Indeed.’

‘I believe I find them quite fascinating.’

‘I have known you for many years Ambassador, I thought you jaded by the repetition of your work.’

‘I admit to becoming a little tired as I near the end of my career. This case had many fascinating aspects to it. Ones I have never encountered before.’

‘Would you be so kind as to indulge me?’

Tran collected his thoughts, ‘It is my first contact with meat eaters. They are extremely diverse. With some of them you can actually feel the violence bubbling just under the surface.’

‘Like a few Modloch I have encountered in my time.’

‘Indeed Sire. In some ways I see many races combined into the Human race. I found it hard to believe that two small Human males overpowered an armed Federation unit, yet the evidence that they did so was right in front of my eyes. They are obviously much faster and stronger than they look. Yet others, like the Lady Mya, was so polite and refined. She read all of the Federation rules about her duties that night and agreed with them wholeheartedly.’

‘The Lady Mya… I believe I have seen her at the Modloch Royal Palace, but I have never talked to her.’

‘You would enjoy the conversation Sire. She is a wonderful person. If you get the opportunity, I would advise you to seize it.’

‘They are a contradiction, are they not, Human females?’

‘You are correct Sire. Some are the complete opposite of Lady Mya. Captain Wilson for example. It would seem she is the embodiment of Human male desire, yet she has the spirit of a great warrior.’

‘She is considered attractive?’

‘Indeed she is Sire.’

‘Yet this other Captain, the male, does not desire her? That seems to be a contradiction.’

‘It would seem the Captain was involved in an incident that left him physically and mentally scarred for life. It was Captain Wilson and her crew that rescued him. That was when they first met. It is all in the report Sire.’

‘Indulge me a little Ambassador.’

‘There isn’t much left to say Sire. The male was incapacitated. Captain Wilson visited him every day until he could be picked up by his own ship.’

‘Why would she do that?’

‘I think it had something to do with what he did. I am led to believe that it was something very brave. Indeed, after the incident, the male Captain was promoted, about five or six ranks I think.’

‘That is a huge jump in rank. It must have been something quite significant. I am going to presume they never told you what it was.’

‘You are correct Sire. Whatever the mission was, it was top secret, and none would divulge any information on it.’

‘That’s a shame. I would love to know what kind of things the Humans get up to.’

‘What ever it was Sire, it seemed to win the female Captain’s admiration. The female Captain already had a reputation for being a fine warrior. She has a number of kills in single air-to-air combat against superior forces, and also a war record that any Modloch General would be proud of.’

‘I am beginning to see the attraction, two extraordinarily brave soldiers meeting, a meeting of equals if you will.’

‘That it seems, was all it was, or is.’

‘They are, it would seem, a bit of a paradox.’

‘Indeed they are Sire. The whole race seems to be a paradox, but here they are.’

‘You say you see a little of many different races in them?’

‘Yes Sire I do. It was quite refreshing.’

‘You didn’t feel at risk of being eaten?’

‘They don’t like being questioned, that’s for certain, and the female Captain threatened to have me kicked off her ship, but I certainly did not feel threatened in that way.’

‘Did the males also threaten you?’

‘No Sir, not at all.’

‘Thank you Ambassador, I will read your report fully.’

Tran got up and bowed low, ‘It was an honour to serve, Sire.’

Over the next few hours the Emperor got comfortable and read through the report. He underlined some parts and made notes, which he then sent to various members of the Federation. Within a few hours he had all the answers he wanted and called in his aide.

‘I want phase two of our plan against the Human training ship put into action straight away.’

‘Has the Ambassador cleared them of all wrong-doing Sire?’

‘Yes he has.’

‘I will implement it straight away.’

Chapter 31

‘What is happening Mr Black?’

Jean’s number two ran from console to console before reporting to her. ‘We are being cut off from the space station’s amenities Ma’am. We are also being asked to undock from the station.’

Jean thought it over for a moment, ‘Refuse the request.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

‘I want to see all senior officers in the briefing room immediately.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

‘Mr Macintosh.’

An officer swivelled in his chair to face her, ‘Yes Captain.’

‘Sever the command link from the space station before they undock us.’

‘Yes Ma’am,’ it only took him a few seconds. ‘The command link has been severed.’

Jean got up and made her way to the senior briefing room. In less than ten minutes she had all her senior staff assembled.

‘Ladies and gentlemen, the Federation has turned up the heat a little. If they play by their own rule book, then we should expect an armed incursion in about a fortnight. This phase of their operation is designed to demoralise us by cutting us off from the station’s amenities. As we are already overstocked with fuel, water and food, these restrictions will not affect us in any way. The problem will come after the fortnight is over. Right now we are on a countdown to disaster.’ Jean pressed a button and the screen came alive. ‘This is the process, or schedule, that the Federation have been following. Today they ordered us to undock from the station. I refused and cut off the command link so that they couldn’t override us. If they manage to undock us then they can tow us to a safe distance from the station and assault us. As long as we are connected to that station, they can’t touch us for the next two weeks. There are a number of diplomatic steps that they have to follow first. However, once those steps have been taken, they are then free to assault the ship directly from the station. I have little doubt that they will use the Human contingent that they now have to do so.

‘Our first priority is the safety of our recruits. I am going to request that they be uplifted by freighter and moved to the safety of the fleet. There is a clause in Federation documentation that accommodates the removal of non-combatants from a vessel in our situation. I am not sure if it also includes recruits, but I sincerely hope so. If it comes to a point where we might have to fight, I have been ordered to surrender the vessel without doing so.’

There was a murmur of discontent.

‘Quiet please! A letter from Admiral Baxter arrived this morning, stating that he is well aware of the fighting record of this ship. As we are not at war with the Federation, and do not wish to be, we are not to live up to our reputation. Political steps are being taken. If these fail, they are going to send the fleet to extract us. It is at that stage, and only that stage, that we are allowed to fight back. If they attack before the fleet get here we are simply to capitulate. They will rescue us if necessary.’

Jean opened a personal email, ‘This is from the President. It states that even the Federation’s own investigative team found no reason why we should be detained. In fact it praises all those involved for taking into consideration the Federation’s rules and regulations, even though we were not obligated to follow them. He then goes on to state that there seems to be some form of political movement against Humanity as a whole. He believes the answer to this problem to be political, not martial. He requests that we take no form of military action to extract ourselves from this position; to do so may well plunge Humanity into a war that could result in our total annihilation as a species. He goes on to promise that, one way or another, they will extract us from this position.’

Jean closed the email and took a deep breath, ‘There is more. However, that is as much as you all need to know. We will continue to man our defensive positions within the ship. We know we are being scanned continually, therefore we will continue as we are. We will give the impression that we are ready to fight. In reality, you will give instructions to all personnel that they will immediately capitulate in the event that we are boarded. These instructions will be given verbally. If we are able to keep the Federation at bay until the final deadline, we will disarm everyone on the eve of the deadline.’

Jean cast her eyes over all of them, ‘These orders don’t sit well with any of us, I can see it in your faces. I know our people will want to fight. You must persuade them that it is the wrong thing to do. What we do now is the important thing. We need to give the politicians time. If they get even a hint that we will capitulate they will storm this vessel in a matter of hours. That is only going to make it all the harder for everyone in the long run. Any questions?’

Proctor’s hand went up, ‘May I suggest we do not tell anyone about this until the twelfth hour. Morale just now is very high. If we tell them, it will plummet.’

Jean thought it over, ‘Anyone else of this opinion?’

There were more than a few nodding heads and mumbles.

‘It is a good suggestion Mr Proctor, and I find myself in agreement. Yet we need to give enough time for them to digest the news, get over it and accept it as well. Three days before the deadline. Are we all in agreement?’

They all seemed happy with the decision, ‘Any more questions?’

‘Aye, can we trust this American President?’ Black asked.

Jean gave him a dirty look that made them all laugh, ‘He isn’t an American President, he is the Earth’s President. To be honest, I don’t know.’

Chapter 32

Charlie was checking over the assault course when Jean found him. She found that her smile and greeting was somewhat hard to make cheery.

‘Hello Charlie.’

He turned slowly, ‘Hi Jean, didn’t expect to see you down here. Want to go round? I just finished the safety checks.’

Her smile broadened a little, ‘Not today thanks.’

‘So what’s up? You look like some little shit just pulled your pony tail and nicked your lollipop.’

Jean laughed, ‘Am I that easy to read?’

Charlie opened his mind, and her thoughts flooded in, ‘I hope you are as smart as I think you are, and not just some narrow-minded infantry bod,’ was the one that he caught the loudest.

Jean took a moment to gather her thoughts, ‘What do you think about all of this Charlie?’

‘I’m a soldier Jean, and so are you. Sit back and follow orders. If they tell us to fight, we fight, if they say not to, then we don’t.’

‘Is that it Charlie?’

He could hear the disappointment in her voice and also in her mind.

‘What did that Federation team that was sent to investigate us say?’

‘They exonerated us, with flying colours.’

‘See!’

‘No, not really Charlie, we are still in the same position as we were in before.’

‘Then that’s your answer Jean.’

‘I am so not following you.’

Charlie grabbed her hand and dragged her over to a long bench, he sat and pulled her down beside him. Jean was quite shocked. He even kept a hold of her hand.

‘Look, this has nothing to do with us. It is so far over our heads it’s lost in the stars. This is politics in its finest form. What were you told to do if we reach the deadline? Capitulate?’

‘How did you guess that?’

‘Elementary my dear Wilson.’

Jean burst out laughing, ‘You did not just say that!’

‘Couldn’t help it,’ Charlie smiled in return. ‘Look, if it wasn’t this, then it would be something else, or someone else. It is an excuse to put us through our paces.’

Jean waved her spare hand in front of her face, ‘What?’

Charlie gathered his thoughts, ‘I have spent a lot of time around the Modloch Emperor, and he just loves to brag about everything. On more than one occasion he has said that Humanity will be tested by the Federation before it is accepted into the fold. If ours was the morality test, then we passed that with flying colours.’

‘Do you really believe that Charlie?’

‘Oh aye. Now we have been exonerated, they are still trying. So who are they testing now? It has to be the politicians.’

‘You make it sound so simple.’

Charlie shrugged, ‘It is. The Emperor told me about this kind of stuff. They deem it very important to test the nerve of our political hierarchy. What is important to us is that we do what we are ordered to do. If we deviate from those orders by a fraction, then we will cause huge problems higher up the line.’

‘I'm beginning to see where you are coming from. Do you believe the Modloch Emperor?’

‘Oh aye. When I first met him I was still a Sergeant. If I had been an officer of the Goodwill Ambassador’s guard at the time, then I may have taken it differently.’

‘But you weren’t, so why would he try to influence a mere Sergeant?’

‘Exactly.’

Jean took a deep breath, ‘I feel a little better now, thank you.’

‘As long as we dot our I’s and cross our T’s, we will be fine.’

‘Do you think our own side will hold it against us Charlie?’

‘Means nothing to me Jean, I only got two more years to put in.’

‘Lucky you, I have still time to push. Would have liked to go a little higher in rank in my last few years.’

‘Nice pension.’

‘Very,’ she grinned. ‘Still, I have never been happier than doing what I am now. I think if I spent the rest of my years on big Willy, I would leave just as happily.’

Charlie laughed, ‘It sounds so funny hearing you call the ship that!’

‘Why! Because I am a woman?’

‘Maybe, I don’t know,’ Charlie mused.

‘You know, I wanted this to go better. What I don’t like is that fact that you seem very comfortable being kept apart from me. I wanted this to be more, you know.’

‘Not used to it huh?’

‘A man playing hard to get? No, I’m not. You know, if I had played my cards right, I could have been an admiral by now.’

‘I bet you could have. I am also happy that you have your own moral standards, Jean.’

‘Oh I do, believe me. It isn’t any old guy that I fall for you know.’

Charlie turned and looked her in the eye, ‘You may not be my type Jean, but you still make my heart race, you are extremely beautiful, and more than that, you are someone I admire and respect.’

‘So why not Charlie, why can’t it be?’

‘I am no longer Human, Jean.’

‘Oh that’s bullshit Charlie!’ She pulled her hand free, ‘You are still a wonderful guy, and you are Human in here, where it counts,’ she placed a hand against his chest.

Charlie looked deep into her eyes, so deep she felt them touch her soul, ‘What will you be doing three hundred years from now, or even five?’

She laughed, ‘What a daft question! I will be dead.’

‘Exactly.’

The smile faded, ‘What are you getting at?’

‘The chances are, unless I fall into a star or something, I will still be kicking about somewhere. That is something you need to think about.’

The hand slipped off his chest and joined the other on her lap. A pained expression crossed her face.

‘You aren’t joking, are you Charlie?’

‘No I’m not.’

‘But that means.’

‘It means that before I die, everyone I know will be dead: friends, family, and more than once.’

‘Will you age?’

‘No, although I can alter my appearance to make it seem as though I have.’

‘So you really aren’t Human any more, are you?’

‘No.’

Jean stood slowly, ‘I really have to get back to the bridge.’

‘Aye, catch you later.’

Jean walked towards the door. When she reached it, she turned to look at him. Their eyes met and held for a long time. Eventually Charlie raised a hand and Jean left.

Chapter 33

Mya was more impressed than frightened at the display of rage Rannalld was displaying on the view screen. He disappeared every now and then and objects would fly across his viewer. Eventually he was able to compose himself, and sat back down.

‘You are a member of the Royal Modloch Household! We will not let this insult pass. If we have to, we will wage war on the Federation and set you free. Do not despair my lady.’

‘I won’t Rannalld, thank you for listening.’

‘You should have called sooner.’

‘You called me.’

Rannalld sat back and blinked a few times, ‘I just wanted to know what had happened to you. Your ship passed through here a few days ago, and your letter was delivered by hand.’

Mya beamed one of her smiles at him, ‘Is my ship still there?’

‘No, the word is that the Federation has been contacted by another race of meat eaters, and your ship is heading back that way. Your Goodwill Ambassador has been charged with meeting them for the first time.’

‘That sounds quite exciting.’

‘Well I hope he doesn’t end up being eaten.’

‘They wouldn’t, would they?’

‘They have eaten every other Goodwill Ambassador that was sent.’

Mya was worried by the revelation, ‘The soldiers will keep him safe, I’m sure they will.’

‘We can only wish them luck. I have to admit that it is the first time the Ortea has ever got in touch with the Federation. Chances are they will be fine. I am more concerned with your situation.’

‘I am fine, we have been investigated and found innocent of all charges, but yet the Federation is going ahead with their action. We don’t understand it Rannalld.’

‘I will speak to the Emperor. We will hunt down the trooper that dared touch a member of the Royal Household.’

Rannalld’s temper snapped again, and Mya cringed as this time the chair he was sitting on was slung across the room to crash against an unseen wall. It was all she could do to keep herself from laughing as he bent over to speak to her again.

‘We will find him, do not worry.’

‘Rannalld, we have him as a prisoner on board this ship. My escort beat him to within a shadow of his life. I think he has been punished enough.’

‘Justice is not something you should be concerned about my Lady. Leave it to us.’

His temper snapped again, and this time it was whatever he was communicating on that received the rough treatment. Mya sighed with disbelief and switched her screen off.

Light years away Rannalld calmed down again and realised what he had done. He groaned in frustration and began looking for another device. His frustration soon led him to forget the search and order his personal transport round.

Half an hour later, he arrived at the palace and demanded an audience with the Emperor. Darrick eyed him with disdain over the top of a model he was inspecting alongside some Royal architects.

‘You had better have a good reason for neglecting your duties and demanding an audience brother.’

‘Can there be any greater reason than an insult to the Royal Modloch Household?’

Now he had Darrick’s attention, ‘Go on.’

‘We have been insulted Sire. One of our Household, struck down by the hand of a Federation trooper,’ Rannalld’s agitation began to show, and he soon got carried away, stomping up and down the room.

Darrick felt his ire begin to rise, ‘Why am I only just hearing about this now?’

It stopped Rannalld in his tracks, ‘I only just heard about it myself Sire. The Lady Mya sent me a letter. I contacted her to see how she was, and it was only then she told me about it.’

Darrick had talked to the Lady Mya a number of times to try and figure out why his brother had bequeathed so much to her. He found her simplicity endearing.

‘Has this trooper been arrested?’

‘By the Humans, yes, at Federation One. However, they are now being treated as hostile guests.’

‘Have they executed him?’

‘No Sire, I don’t think they use the death penalty.’

Darrick’s mind began to swing into gear, ‘Hostile guests? Is that the Human training vessel?’

‘Yes Sire.’

‘What was one of our Royal Ladies doing on a Human training ship?’

‘She was acting as a chaperone between two Captains.’

‘Why would the Humans need a chaperone? I thought they didn’t have that sort of thing.’

‘It was as a courtesy to the Federation. They have been investigated by a Federation ethics committee and cleared of any wrongdoing.’

‘Are they still being treated as hostile guests?’

‘Yes Sire.’

Darrick calmed a little as his mind sought out possible remedies for the situation. He came to a quick conclusion and smiled.

‘I will deal with this. In the meantime you will begin training your assault brigades to assault a Federation space station. Be quick about it, we may not have much time.’

Rannalld roared his approval and almost ran from the room.

An hour later, Darrick had Emperor Ne´ Langus on screen in his personal study.

‘How are you Darrick, is something wrong? I wasn’t expecting a call.’

‘What is this about you having a member of my Household held captive on board a Human training ship?’

Ne´ looked surprised for a moment then suddenly burst out laughing. ‘Are you telling me that you only just found out now!’

‘An hour ago.’

‘I was expecting to have this conversation weeks ago, I thought you just didn’t care.’

‘Well I do Ne´. So what is going on, is this a Federation test?’

‘Of course it is, and it is going well for your Human friends so far. Now it is up to their politicians to bare their teeth and show some backbone. What are you doing now you have found out?’

‘It was Rannalld who found out, he is as much under that female’s spell as Gairloch was.’

‘I have seen her, haven’t I?’

‘I pointed her out to you at a dinner party.’

‘That’s right, the tiny one.’

‘That’s her.’

‘Didn’t she request help from you straight away?’

‘She hasn’t requested help at all, the request came from Rannalld. Right now he is preparing his assault troops to take Federation One.’

‘I was going to allow a diplomatic vessel to approach and extract her, but it has gone too far now,’ Ne´ explained, ‘Once we have taken the ship, you can apply to have her released. She and her companions from the Earth’s Goodwill Ambassador’s ship showed great courage during the initial assault. I will let you have them all if you want.’

‘That’s nice to know Ne´, in the meantime I will have to make a show of preparing to rescue her.’

‘I understand, but don’t let the Humans know what is going on.’

‘I won’t. How long have they got until your assault?’

‘Exactly two Federation weeks from now.’

Chapter 34

President Michael Montgomery felt more than a little intimidated by his surroundings. He had been called to the Modloch palace on very short notice and told that it was a private audience chamber, but to Michael Montgomery, it was still big. The Emperor sat behind a huge mahogany desk. Michael felt like a child dragged in front of the headmaster. The desk had obviously been imported from Earth. It was the black-clad guards standing against the walls that gave him the shudders. They were more like executioners than the guards he was used to seeing.

Eventually Darrick looked up from the tablet he was reading.

‘What are you doing about the Federation One situation?’

The question was unexpected, ‘I have been invited to talk about the situation at a meeting with the Federation, I was planning on voicing my concerns there.’

Darrick grumbled something under his breath.

‘In two Federation weeks from now, your ship is going to be boarded, and all those inside arrested and detained. You will never see them again. The ship will be confiscated as well. You are aware that one of those persons trapped on that ship is a member of my Royal Household.’

‘Pardon! I don’t think so Sir, all those involved are Human.’

‘The Lady Mya is a member of my Household. She is Human.’

It took him a moment to realise who he was talking about. His conversation with Ambassador Gordon the week before came back to haunt him. Steven had mentioned that a Lady Mya was acting as a chaperone, he hadn’t mentioned that she was Human.

‘The female who was acting as chaperone.’

‘Who else would I be talking about?’

He hadn’t even thought of asking, it was a mere detail in one of hundreds of reports that passed across his desk every day. Now he had to rescue the situation.

‘I wasn’t aware that you thought of her as a member of your Household, Sir.’

‘My brother bequeathed all that he had to her. He was a member of my family, his estates belong to me, what was his is now hers and so mine. She belongs to me and my family and is therefore a member of my Household. I dislike talking to politicians intensely. Do not make me repeat myself.’

‘I understand Sir.’

‘Are you making military preparations?’

‘I cannot tell you that Sir.’

Darrick flicked a finger and the black-clad Modloch moved towards him.

‘These are my personal interrogators and executioners.’

‘You can’t do this!’

‘Who will stop me?’

Michael was at a loss for words. ‘I am the leader of a world.’

‘I am the leader of an Empire, who cares about you?’

‘My people.’

‘Your people will choose another leader if you die.’

‘You will cause a war.’

‘I am prepared to go to war to defend what is mine, even against the Federation. Are you, politician?’

Michael was now surrounded by the executioners.

‘If that’s what it takes.’

‘Wait,’ the Emperor held up a hand and his people moved away. ‘Tell me what you intend to do. I will not tell anyone, you have my word as an Emperor. I may even be in a position to help you.’

‘We have a common purpose, is that what you are saying Sir, and that we would be better casting our forces in together.’

‘Of course, are you dim witted?’

Michael Montgomery took a deep breath, ‘We are planning an assault on the Federation One base.’

‘Give me the details Human.’

‘Our assault teams are preparing to take the station. They are training hard right now. If the diplomatic solution does not work, they will assault as soon as the Sir William Wallace is attacked. The crew have been told to offer no resistance. Before we reach the station, we will retract our bid and declare war.’

‘Are you going to inform the Federation of these plans?’

‘Of course not.’

A deep rumble came up from Darrick’s chest, ‘I knew it! You are an idiot. I suppose you are going to time the removal of your bid so that your people there will be free to help in the assault?’

‘Yes of course.’

‘That is not how to do it. Face them, tell them of your intentions, then carry them out.’

‘Excuse me for saying so Sir, but to us, telling the enemy of your intentions is the stupid thing to do.’

‘Of course you think that, you don’t have a clue how things work. Your people have been cleared of any wrongdoing, you are the ones in a position of strength. If we combine our forces and show a determined front, they will give way, they will have no other choice.’

‘I find that hard to believe.’

‘Idiot. Do some research. Have your assault team join the main fleet. The more ships the better. Do not carry on with this stupid plan. You may very well succeed, but you will lose your bid forever, and be at war for centuries to come. You are no longer on Earth, the Federation is not made up of Humanity, you cannot treat us the way you would treat your own. You really need to be doing better, or you will fail terribly. Learn Mr Politician, before your home world is lost forever. Now leave. I will send a diplomat to sign a formal agreement of hostile action against the Federation,’ Darrick waved a hand carelessly in the direction of the door.

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Children,’ Darrick muttered to himself after the President had left.

Chapter 35

Michael Montgomery held an emergency meeting. His aides surrounded him in the briefing room. He had already briefed them on what the Modloch Emperor had told him. Once they got over the shock of their President’s near demise they began to go to work. He picked the best ideas and set them to it.

The next few days were full of meetings; his researchers were working full blast. Michael went from one meeting to another. They started big, but soon the number in attendance dwindled until he was left with his small group of advisors and military Commanders.

The arguments swung back and forth as regards to their own views on the matter. His eyes kept coming back to settle on Grand Admiral Baxter, Commander of the entire Human military force. Baxter was normally quite vocal at these meetings and would aggressively put his opinions forward. Today though, he was strangely quiet.

The arguments were getting nowhere, one seemed to counter the next. Eventually Michael got sick of waiting and held up a hand for silence.

‘Grand Admiral, what are your thoughts? You have heard all of the evidence.’

‘To be honest Sir, I’m not quite sure what to think. I am not doubting any of the research done by your people or mine, what I fail to fathom is what the Federation get out of all of this.’

‘Is that important?’ Asked one of the President’s aides.

‘Of course, it is the most important question, and one that has not been answered to my satisfaction.’

The aide opened his mouth to snap back an answer, but Michael grasped his arm.

‘Please go on, Grand Admiral.’

‘As I just stated Sir, what on Earth are the Federation getting out of all of this? They don’t all hate us, yet none of our normal allies are saying much at all, if anything. This offer of an alliance with the Modloch forces is the only thing that has really happened in our favour. Yet the Modloch Emperor himself has offered no opposition to the Federation.

‘Our people have been cleared of any wrongdoing by a Federation ethical committee, yet they have not relinquished the Sir William Wallace. In fact they have been praised by that same committee. Yet the fact remains that they still haven’t been released. Why not? There is simply something here that we aren’t seeing.’

The President nodded his head slowly in agreement, ‘That is the question that has been bothering me the most too Admiral, something just doesn’t add up, does it?’

‘No Sir, it doesn’t. For starters, how can two unarmed men take down a whole squad of Federation troops? It doesn’t make sense.’

Michael held up a hand, ‘Actually, I wouldn’t worry about that. I have met the two soldiers involved in this incident. I can assure you Admiral, both are very capable of distracting the troop long enough for Captain Wilson to get the drop on them. It was once the Captain got her hands on her gun that the fight went out of them. They simply lay down, as if they were ordered to.’

‘Which they must have been,’ Baxter mused, ‘They incapacitated one person on the way to the Captain’s quarters. I firmly believe that they intended capturing the Captain and her guests…’

‘Yet they gave up at the first sign of resistance. Do you think that any sign of resistance would have achieved the same results Admiral?’

‘I do Sir.’

‘So whoever sent them didn’t care about the outcome, is that what you are saying?’

‘It is the only conclusion that I can come to Mr President. Whether the troop was captured or the Captain and her guests were abducted, it didn’t really matter. What mattered was to cause an incident.’

‘You have a damn fine point Admiral,’ Michael sat back and thought it over for a moment. ‘Yet what does it really matter? We are still in this predicament.’

‘I think it matters a great deal Sir. I have read the transcript of your conversation with the Modloch Emperor. I know he treated you rather badly, but may I ask how he talked to you? Is there any clues there, how did you feel, how did he come across to you?’

‘To be truthful, he treated and talked to me with disdain, like I was some form of child. A very stupid one at that. He more or less ordered me to do his bidding.’

‘Which was announce our intentions and sign an agreement of hostile action.’

‘That is correct.’

‘In this playing field, we very much are children, Sir.’

‘Another good point Admiral. Do you think we should heed his advice? The research that we undertook gave at best contradictory findings.’

‘I think, maybe, it is just possible, we have been researching the wrong thing Sir.’

There was a mumble of discontent from the gathered men, but the President waved them down.

‘Explain your reasoning further Admiral.’

‘Do you not feel as though we are being tested Sir?’

‘In what way?’

Baxter scratched at his chin, ‘In every way really. Every little thing that we have done since the incident started. From how we have treated the captives. The morality of our service personnel. How we handle ourselves diplomatically under extreme pressure.’

Baxter’s words faltered, but it lit a spark in the President’s mind and he shot to his feet.

‘Those bastards!’

Some of the men were shocked, others smiled behind their hands.

Michael took a deep breath, ‘I truly apologise gentlemen. I should not use that sort of language,’ his eyes went to Baxter, ‘Admiral, you have just slotted in the final piece of the puzzle. Thank you.’

Baxter wasn’t quite sure what he had done and shook his head.

Michael smiled, ‘It is a test, of course, it is a damn test. Ah! That’s what we were supposed to research. How many times have we been told that the Federation will test us, and test us in every avenue that they can think of. Many times, right?’ There was more than one nod of the head.

‘Grand Admiral Baxter, with this knowledge, could you come up with a battle plan?’

‘I would propose that we reinforce our fleet here with the assault force. Train alongside the Modloch forces for an assault on the space station. Make sure everyone sees our preparations. A few days before your meeting with the Federation council, I would reinforce the battlefleet with as many ships as we can afford to from the home fleets. Then you go do your stuff Sir. Tell them exactly what your intentions are, give them a deadline, force their hand.’

‘Then that is exactly what we are going to do. Get those plans written up and delivered to the Modloch Commanders. Once that is done, we will sign a formal agreement for hostile action with the Modloch against the Federation.’

The President took a deep breath, ‘Gentlemen, let’s get to work.’

Chapter 36

Rannalld was experiencing something close to euphoria. He walked through the old abandoned space station with Admiral Baxter at his side. Clouds of coloured smoke made the unsuited Modloch soldiers cough. A squad of Humans came bursting out of the smoke with weapons blazing. All around them the suits of the Modloch troopers began to flash, and buzzers sound. Behind the Humans came a solid wall of Modloch Marines. They crashed into their comrades in a solid wall.

Rannalld howled with delight at the results. The Modloch soldiers defending the station collapsed.

‘Grand Admiral, do our forces not fight well together?’

‘The tactics that we have devised together are very effective Sir.’

‘What race did you call these Humans?’

‘They are Chinese Sir.’

‘I like them, they have much fighting spirit.’

‘They are impressive.’

Rannalld leaned in closer, ‘Are all diminutive Humans this fearsome?’ He asked quietly.

Baxter was puzzled, ‘I don’t understand the question Sir.’

‘Most of the Humans I have met have been quite tall like yourself. However, the best fighters seem to be these small ones. I fell afoul of one myself once. I think I am lucky to be alive.’

Baxter was lightly alarmed, ‘I hope it wasn’t one of my soldiers.’

‘He is a soldier, and he is here, so he must be one of yours.’

Baxter felt his ire rise, ‘If you give me his name Sir, I will make sure he is suitably punished.’

Rannalld was alarmed, ‘Oh please keep out of it. If word got back to the Emperor that I had him punished, it would be myself who was left holding the shitty end of the stick.’

‘I don’t understand.’

‘The problem came from my misunderstanding of a certain situation. The fault was mine entirely. I also learned a number of valuable lessons. It was the first time I locked horns with a Human. Until then, I had very little respect for your people. I came away with an entirely different point of view.’

‘Maybe I should be grateful then.’

‘Tell me Admiral, have you met the Lady Mya?’

‘No Sir, I have never had that pleasure.’

‘She is wonderful and brave. My brother Gairloch, was a little eccentric. He challenged the Emperor in ways that none of the rest of us would dare to try. He got away with it every time. We were all jealous, each of us trying hard every day to prove our loyalty. In the end, he beat us at that as well. He gave his life for his Emperor and his people. We always believed that at the end of our days, Gairloch would be the one standing by the Emperor’s side the longest.

‘He was a confirmed bachelor. The Emperor tried to have him married off three times, with females whose station in life were beyond reproach. No matter how the Emperor cussed him out and threatened him, Gairloch simply bawled with glee and told him to marry them himself.

‘Then completely out of the blue, we received a communication from him when he was on Earth. He bequeathed all that he had to the Lady Mya. We were all astonished. None of us believed that the Emperor would honour it. He did, and she has been a wonderful addition to our family. I see in her what Gairloch saw, I think she has brought me closer to him now than we ever were when he was alive. I would tear this galaxy a new arsehole to protect her and rescue her from whomever has the audacity to hurt or imprison her.’

‘I believe I am getting the message Sir. May I ask why you have done nothing about it until now?’

‘We simply didn’t know. She kept her problems to herself. My question to you is, why didn’t you inform us?’

‘We had no idea of her relationship with the Royal Modloch Household. To us she was no more than a member of the Goodwill Ambassador’s crew.’

‘Then I sincerely hope you have made an adjustment in your understanding of the situation, Grand Admiral.’

‘It has been noted General.’

‘Then let’s put them through their paces again, I am so enjoying this.’

Chapter 37

Michael Montgomery stood and bade Admiral Baxter sit on a couch opposite, ‘Thank you for coming, it must have been a long day for you.’

‘I am used to long days and short nights Sir.’

‘I know the feeling Admiral, the work never seems to stop does it?’

‘It doesn’t.’

‘I want to hear your thoughts on the Modlochs’ intentions. Are they serious?’

‘Very, in fact, I would say it has been taken as a personal insult by the Royal Household. Were you aware of this woman’s status before Sir?’

‘Not at all. I have to admit dropping the ball on this one. When Steven Gordon talked to me about a Lady Mya from the Royal Modloch Household, I simply thought it was someone they had met at the station. She is referred to as Lady Mya in the Federation’s communications, but we simply assumed it was how they addressed civilian females.’

‘Apparently not. She is Human and a bona fide member of the Modloch Royal Household. After being with General Rannalld all day, I can assure you that she is a very important one at that.’

‘I sent a request for information to Steven Gordon. It would seem she was one of the people that they rescued from the Black Planet. She was abducted by the Albany in 1943. Before that she had been captured by the Japanese after killing one of their officers. It would seem he had taken a bit of a shine to her. When her father had her removed to her grandfather’s village for safety, the Japanese officer murdered them all and then conducted a hunt for her. They found her and he exacted the same revenge on the grandfather’s village. That night, when he tried to have his wicked way with her, she cut his throat with one of his own knives, then escaped back into the jungle. She led them a merry dance for a while but was eventually captured.

‘She met Admiral Gairloch onboard the freighter that was returning them home. They seemed to hit it off. When he later found out that she had completely disappeared, he asked Captain Gordon to find her. Which they eventually did. They also discovered that she no longer had any living relations. The money given to her by the survivor’s fund had been stolen by a politician. Before Gairloch died, he bequeathed all that was his to her. That’s about it. Her home is now a very plush Royal estate on the Modloch home world.’

‘That’s quite a story Sir. General Rannalld told me that they didn’t believe that the Emperor would honour the bequest, however, he did.’

‘Probably more as a mark of respect to his brother, rather than for any feelings towards a Human female. From my limited experience with Modloch Emperor, he simply doesn’t seem the caring type.’

‘I would agree with that Sir. It has also occurred to me that if she is receiving Gairloch’s pension then she too must have a bank account.’

‘I understand where you are coming from Admiral, but I don’t think messing with this Lady more than we have to will do us any favours with our Modloch friends. How is the training going?’

‘Very well. The Modloch and Chinese Marines are getting on like a house of fire. The Modloch are in awe at their martial arts skills, and the Chinese are in awe of the Modloch’s sheer size.’

‘That was a good match then.’

‘I think Rannalld will make a bid to have them posted permanently to Modloch assault battalions once this is all over.’

‘Should we allow it?’

‘I'm not sure yet. That is down the line.’

‘Correct, we have enough on our plates right now. ‘Have you reviewed the results of the tests Captain Gordon carried out?’

‘I have Sir, very impressive, but highly illegal. We won’t be able to carry them on our ships.’

‘Not on this side of the barrier. However, I am going to have some stockpiled on our nearest space station. If we ever need them, we will know where to find them.’

‘I think they are a last ditch weapon Sir, or maybe one of assassination.’

‘We are having smaller ones tested nearer home. Our scientists think that if one is exploded at faster than light speed there will be no trace left of any ship.’

‘How would that work Sir?’

‘The ship would be reduced to its smallest atoms. If the ship was at light speed when it blew, the particles would keep on traveling at the same speed. The explosion caused by the loss of containment would ensure they were scattered far and wide.’

‘That’s nice to know. Are you all set for this meeting Mr President?’

‘I am. I have done my research now, and am sure that it is some form of test. The proof of the pudding however, lies with me. If I go in too heavy handed, I could make as big a mess of it as if I went in too lightly. I have discovered that other races have been in similar predicaments, but not all have come out of it unscathed. The people that will pay the price are the crew of the Sir William Wallace.’

‘They won’t pay for long Sir. Not if you have the resolve.’

‘I have never taken a whole world to war before Admiral. It is frightening.’

‘I have.’

‘Of course, you commanded the defence of our own solar system. Were you as frightened as I am?’

Baxter smiled, ‘Petrified.’

‘Does it get any easier?’

‘The more I learn, the more I realise just how lucky we really were. The biggest killer of the Albany wasn’t us, it was their own self confidence. Right to the very end, they couldn’t possibly conceive failure.’

‘Do you think they were brave?’

‘I think they were conceited and then desperate. I didn’t consider them courageous. Individual parts of the battle stood out, where probably real courage was shown. Some of our troops were held up by a band of females. I believe that after the fight the soldiers went back and took care of the bodies of the females themselves. As a form of respect.’

‘Desperation Admiral?’

‘In the end it was kill or be killed. Their only hope for life was to kill us and make it to Earth Sir. When you have nothing to lose and no hope of survival, courage comes quite easily.’

‘It isn’t something I have given much thought over. Still, I would like to see an account of that battle with the females, Admiral.’

‘I will have someone send it over Sir.’

‘It was truly a war of annihilation.’

‘We never annihilated the enemy Sir. Only the forces they ranged against us.’

‘Yes of course; that’s true. They are still a clear and present danger to Humanity.’

Baxter sighed and leaned back, ‘At nights I lie back and think of the oceans at home, the smell of salt mixed with standard issue navy grease and oil, the roar of the patrols as they come into land and take off, the ship bells that ring to signal the end of the watch. There are times you can tell where you are by the roll of the waves beneath you. I miss it so much. I thought it complicated back then.

‘I still have no idea how the hell I ended up in this job. All I did was answer a bloody questionnaire on tactics, devised by Captain Gordon. Yet here I am, from one of the smallest Navies in the world to the biggest force ever created in Earth’s history. At times I think I would give it up in a heartbeat, but I am too frightened to. I sometimes wonder what would have happened if I had refused the role. I remember the arguments with other senior Admirals and planners. It wasn’t pleasant. There are still so many that haven’t come to terms with the tactics on how to fight a space fleet. If I had refused the role, would any of us be here now? When I think of these things, I feel conceited. Am I any better than the Albany?’

‘I think none of us are in any doubt about what would have happened if you hadn’t been in charge Admiral. It isn’t conceit. I am sorry to say, it might be quite a while before you feel those rolling waves under your feet again.’

‘Unfortunately, I have to agree with you Mr President. Still, Humanity is adapting. We old war horses are just going to have to hang in there until those young men and women coming through the system grow up and become experienced.’

‘We need to begin exploring this galaxy Admiral, we need as a race to gain the experience, the tools, the knowledge that will help us survive.’

‘I am aware of that Sir. Our people who now serve with the Federation will soon be a valuable resource.’

‘Are you thinking of sending them home to become instructors?’

‘Yes.’

The President looked at his watch, ‘I am afraid our time is up Admiral. However, I want you to know I have enjoyed this meeting.’

‘It is the first time we have met in private.’

‘Yes it is, I am also surprised to find out just how similarly we think.’

‘So am I,’ Baxter stood, ‘May I wish you the best of luck in your upcoming meeting Mr President. However, if it all goes balls to the wall, we will be ready to move at your command.’

The President offered his hand and Baxter shook it, ‘That is nice to know Grand Admiral.’

Chapter 38

Commander John Logan was at a briefing with the rest of the senior officers aboard the Burning Wind. Captain Douglas McKinnon called the meeting to order.

‘Gentlemen, it has come to my attention that there are many who wish to break the Sir William Wallace free from her moorings and escort the ship to safety. I have just come from a meeting with the other Captains. That is not going to happen. When the Federation demands that we provide a boarding crew we will. Not only will we provide the boarding party, we will take the ship if ordered to do so. Not only that, if the crew of Big Willy put up a fight, then we will fight back.’

There was a muted roar of derision from the assembled officers.

‘Enough!’ He snapped, ‘We are now a part of Federation forces. Our soldiers and Marines have completed their training and are now active members of the Federation. Therefore they can be called to serve at any moment. It is the other departments that are keeping us here, otherwise we would already have been deployed.

‘We can no longer afford to look upon ourselves as anything other than Federation soldiers. We have been through this many times; we have pledged allegiance to the Federation and its aims. Everyone who serves the full term of service will automatically become a Federation citizen, even though the rest of Humanity won’t.’

‘With respect Sir, they can shove it,’ Logan butted in rudely.

The Captain sighed and put down the tablet he was reading from, ‘Commander Logan. I know that you served with Captain Wilson and have many friends on the Big Willy. Things, however, are not as bleak as they look. We are secretly in touch with the Captain and her crew.’

‘How? I though all of their communications had been jammed.’

‘They have, however, we have a stockpile of VHF and UHF radios from which we receive daily reports. Our comrades in the Federation have no clue to their existence, nor do they have any equipment so backward that they could intercept the transmissions.

‘We have also been kept updated in the same manner by our freighters as they make deliveries. Our orders to tow the line come straight from the President. The crew of Big Willy are fine. They also have their orders. They have been told to offer no resistance, but Captain Wilson cannot guarantee that.’

He picked up the tablet again, ‘Our orders have come in to supply the boarding party. In a few days we will receive our new weapons, Federation standard ones that have been remodelled to suit Human hands. The Federation wants no casualties if it can be avoided. Weapons will be set to stun, unless we are met with heavy resistance that costs us lives. Only then will you be given permission to use deadly force.

‘I cannot stress how important this mission is to all of Humanity. We must gain the trust of the Federation. The crew of the training ship are in exactly the same position as we are. In five days’ time the President will make a final appeal to the Federation for the release of the Sir William Wallace. If it fails, we will go straight in. There will be no arguments, no hesitation, no rebellion. I expect all of you to do your duty without complaint. If a Federation officer asks you, you will say that you are prepared to carry out your orders to the letter, and that your personal feelings have no bearing on the matter. Do you understand Mr Logan?’

Logan closed his eyes and took a deep breath, ‘Yes Sir, I understand perfectly.’

‘Good. Now this must be conveyed to the rest of the crew as quickly as possible. Any refusal to carry out orders will be dealt with by Federation law. We will not be allowed to interfere either. Please remember that although the races that make up the Federation are much more advanced than us, they still have the death penalty for mutiny.

‘There is one more thing that you need to know. This is top secret. None outside this room can hear of this. If the President’s bid fails, we will be ordered to assault The Sir William Wallace. That will trigger an assault from our own forces on this space station. Just before the fleet arrives here, the President will drop our bid for Federation status and declare war. We are going to have to be ready. The moment he makes that declaration, the Federation will try and detain us; we need to be in a position to counter any measures that they make.’

There were exclamations of surprise, he waited a few moments before going on.

‘We know when he will make the speech and where. What we won’t know is the outcome. We won’t be able to watch it. The first we will know about it is if our Federation comrades come banging down the door. I will assume that the first thing they will try is locking us down. There will be no hostile guest scenario. We will need to be ready. You will receive written orders later. Any questions so far?’

Logan half raised a hand, ‘If we are going to revolt anyway, then why bother assaulting the Sir William Wallace?’

‘Because the President wants it that way. He wants us to be seen to be doing our jobs to the very last minute. In part, I presume, to lull the staff here into thinking we are obedient little Humans who haven’t got a damn clue what is happening.’

Logan relented, ‘That makes sense Sir.’

‘Any more?’

There were a few, and he addressed them before dismissing the meeting. The tension aboard Federation One was beginning to rise.

Chapter 39

‘What’s happening out there Charlie?’

The atmosphere aboard the Sir William Wallace was very stale. The recruits had been allowed to leave a few days before they were locked down, and they had been left with little or nothing to do.

‘It’s the end game Cookie,’ the two of them were lying on a pile of mats head to head, staring up at the metal ceiling.

Charlie collected his thoughts, ‘Somewhere out there the President is making an appeal to the Federation to have this ship released. On the station right now, assault troops made up of Marines from the Federation’s Human ships are gathering in the corridors, waiting to storm us. If the President fails, they will take this ship. But at the outer marker, two thousand ships are gathered to storm the station if they dare try and take the Sir William Wallace.’

‘It could all go pear shaped very quickly mate. What time is the President making his speech?’

Charlie shook his head, ‘I haven’t caught that yet.’

‘Some bloody use you are.’

‘Mya is ready to take your relationship to the next level though.’

Cookie snapped round onto his belly, ‘Whit! On the bloody day we might end up incarcerated for god knows how long!’

‘Bummer eh!’

Cookie clapped Charlie on the side of the head, ‘Bastard.’

Charlie sat up and turned to gaze down at Cookie. He instinctively rubbed the spot.

‘Whit was that for!’

‘Two reasons - for not telling me sooner, and for looking into her head.’

‘I didna look intae her head, I saw it on her bloody face this morning at breakfast.’

‘Whit! Yer talking shite then.’

‘I’ve seen that look on a woman’s face many times Cookie, trust me.’

Cookie flopped back round onto his back with a cry of frustration, ‘Aye, and no doubt you took advantage of it as well.’

‘Maybe a time or two.’

‘Or ten or twenty.’

Charlie sighed, ‘Aye well! Those days are long over,’ he flopped back down to join Cookie.

‘It’s nae like ye could date an alien chick either.’

Charlie thought it over, ‘They dinna look anything like they do in the movies eh?’

‘Yer no kidding Charlie. There is always some hot green or blue alien chick in the movies.’

‘Green and blue ones here tae Cookie, only they have udders instead of boobs, and hooves instead of feet.’

Cookie picked at his teeth, ‘My grandad had a Friesian bull that would have been in its element here.’

The pair laughed aloud.

‘It’s good to hear someone’s having a good time and can laugh and relax.’

The pair rolled their heads in the direction of the Commander David Black.

‘Hi Davie,’ Charlie answered. ‘What you up to?’

‘Just checking round, making sure no one is going to go off half-cocked,’ he walked over to the pair and looked down at them. ‘You know you’re supposed to come to attention and salute a senior officer when he comes into the room.’

The two straightened their legs and saluted without bothering to get up. Davie burst out laughing.

‘What a pair! The Captain has invited you both to the bridge. She wants all of the principle players in one place.’

‘Do we have to?’ Cookie groaned, ‘It’s nice and peaceful here.’

‘Unbelievable…’ Davie shook his head, ‘Everyone else on this ship is on tenterhooks, our nerves are stretched to the limit, and you pair are lying here skiving, like there is nothing going on.’

Cookie picked at the edge of his nose, ‘This is for the film.’

‘What film?’ Davie was puzzled.

‘The one they make of this incident. You realise you are a part of history. A thousand years from now, history buffs will be watching the film about how Humanity became a part of the Federation. They will see you lot sweating buckets, puking, cracking under the pressure, then they will see us and think “Wow! Cool dudes!”’

‘Mega Cool,’ Charlie agreed, ‘They will want to be like Cookie and me.’

David shook his head, ‘Get dressed into something decent, no sweats on the bridge.’

‘What’s the hurry? The President doesn’t start his speech for another hour.’

‘What the hell! How do you know about that, it’s supposed to be secret? Did the Captain tell you?’

‘Haven’t seen her in over a week.’

‘Who told you?’

‘It’s common knowledge.’

‘No it isn’t.’

‘Must have been a fairy then.’

‘You sometimes know far too much Charlie.’

‘Do I?’

David shook it off, ‘Look, just get ready and get up to the bridge.’

Cookie gave him another lying down salute, Charlie seemed zoned out. Davie left them alone, wondering how he would appear in the film.

They lay silent for a while.

‘Did you just pluck that out of his head?’

‘Aye, well you wanted to know when the speech started.’

‘Right enough. What should we wear Charlie? Working dress?’

‘Why no our normal uniform?’

‘Army working dress has the benefit of boots, just in case we need to boot some overzealous Modloch Federation trooper in the nuts.’

‘Aye, good point. Be easier punching them though, it’s no like you could miss eh!’

They both laughed.

‘So, working dress Charlie.’

‘Actually I’m thinking we get Mya to dress up in that Gown General Rannalld had made for her. Does she have it with her?’

Cookie frowned, ‘I think she does, why? What’s going through that sneaky mind of yours?’

Charlie grinned, ‘Me bad.’

An hour later they escorted Mya onto the bridge. She looked very uncomfortable in the gown and had more than a little trouble keeping it on her shoulders.

‘Permission to come onto the bridge,’ Charlie asked.

More than a few heads turned.

Jean did a double take, ‘Yes of course. Join me over here,’ they walked across and Jean’s eyes swept over Mya, ‘That’s a very strange dress Mya.’

‘They made me wear it,’ she gasped.

Jean regarded the sly smiles on the faces of the two men. They were dressed very smartly.

‘How is it that your uniforms are a little different to ours?’

Cookie glanced at Charlie. Charlie smiled, ‘Underneath it is the same, however, the decorations are Federation recognised as an official escort to an Ambassador. Also suitable as an escort to a member of the Royal Modloch Household,’ Charlie pointed to a badge on his left arm, ‘This one says we were trained by the Royal Modloch Household. We could even escort the Emperor.’

Her eyes swivelled to Cookie, ‘I thought you didn’t do the training?’

‘I didn’t, this is Charlie’s spare uniform.’

‘I don’t get it, what are you two up to?’

Charlie grinned, ‘Just a little insurance in case all this goes bad today.’

Jean still didn’t get it, she shook her head, ‘What insurance?’

His grin widened, ‘You can guarantee that by now that every Federation trooper knows that there is a member of the Royal Modloch Household on board this ship. The wee ensemble that Mya is wearing was a gift from a member of that family. Not only is the gown made in the Royal colours, it is also made up of the most expensive silk-like material in the known universe, and it has the Royal crest embroidered on the shoulder.

‘You can be assured that they wouldn’t dare sling her in a six by six, or in with the rest of the commoners. Mya’s prison will more likely be of the mansion variety, on a comfortable world somewhere. Of course, as we are her official Royal body guard, we will be going with her.’

‘Oh! You shit!’

Charlie and Cookie howled with laughter while Mya blushed furiously.

‘Is that what you are up to?’ Mya hissed, ‘I will go and take it off.’

Jean reached out and grasped her shoulder, ‘No you won’t Mya. You will stay exactly as you are. In some respects they are right.’

Jean looked around, some of the bridge staff were openly laughing, others were scowling. She realised it had served as a distraction.

‘Common, is it?’ she addressed Charlie.

‘As muck,’ Charlie responded.

Despite herself, she burst out laughing, ‘Oh you two are very smart.’

‘Super smart,’ Cookie agreed.

‘I can’t believe you have done this,’ Mya argued.

‘Do you think it will work?’ Jean asked Charlie.

‘I have looked through the legislation, she is entitled to two bodyguards.’

Jean turned to Mya, ‘They are doing the right thing Mya. You are bound to be separated from us. They are right in that respect. You don’t want to be alone.’

She turned her attention back to Charlie, ‘So you are going to leave me all alone. Some friend you are.’

‘I wouldn’t worry about it. I suspect they won’t leave you high and dry for long. They might whisk Mya away though. We need to be there just in case.’

Jean’s smile changed to one of understanding, ‘Alright, you are forgiven. All we have to do now is wait.’

‘Which is the first thing every good soldier is trained to do,’ Cookie added, to some light laughter from the bridge crew.

‘One way or another, it won’t be long now,’ Jean added.

She stood up and took off her gun belt. She pushed a button and a panel on the side of her chair popped open. She placed the pistol into a specially made bracket and shoved the holster in behind it.

She closed the panel and caught Charlie’s eye, ‘No point in letting Wee Charlie becoming a souvenir for some Federation officer.’

Charlie got it and burst out laughing, ‘I like it.’

‘There’s something happening, I’m detecting movement,’ one of the operators called out.

‘From our fleet or from inside the station?’

‘The station Ma’am.’

Mya grasped Cookie’s arm. Jean and Charlie smiled at one another with their eyes before turning to the large screen.

Chapter 40

Emperor Ne´ Langus flopped into his booth with a cool refreshing drink and took a sip. Beside him were other nobles.

‘How do you think the Humans will fare Ne´?’

‘It is difficult to say Dorg. Most of those who join the Federation would have at least a bit of a clue about what is happening. The Humans don’t seem to have any idea at all.’

Dorg grunted in laughter, ‘Should we really let them in? They are so backwards.’

‘I am beginning to find them quite fascinating.’

‘That’s because of their fighting ability Ne´. For someone like me, I have no interest in their fighting ability.’

‘What if we could cut down travel time between sectors 704 and 22189 to 14564 by over half?’

Dorg considered the question, ‘That would get many traders off my back Ne´, but unless you have discovered a way of eliminating the Ortea, it’s a pipedream.’

‘Didn’t you hear about the diplomatic mission to the Ortea home world by the Humans?’

Dorg snorted derisively, ‘They should make a nice snack.’

‘The Ortea asked for them.’

Dorg reclined and rubbed his back against the seat while he thought it over.

‘Unusual, I will admit. I don’t think they have ever asked before.’

‘You are right they haven’t. Of course one of our biggest problems is the fact that we don’t have any people that can fight, or are used to fighting, in a protracted ground war. Not so the Humans.’

‘You mean either way, the Humans could provide a solution to the Ortea problem.’

‘Exactly.’

‘Well, I hope their political representative doesn’t make a complete arse of this.’

Ne´ laughed, ‘That makes two of us.’

The President had been taken the final lap by a shuttle. He smiled as the name of his flagship slid by his viewing port. The Lincoln was a battle cruiser, but its main job wasn’t to fight, it was to protect him.

Today he felt the weight of history riding on his shoulders. This was a momentous occasion, and he knew it. He prayed fervently that he didn’t make a mess of it. It would only take one slip of the tongue to become the biggest idiot in Earth’s history.

What made it harder for him was that many of the politicians there weren’t actually politicians. Most of them were leaders of vast empires. These dynastic rulers were a completely different breed: selfish, self-centred and self-serving. The Modloch Emperor was typical of them. Michael had no doubt that he would have had him tortured and maybe even killed if it had served his own purpose.

They dropped down through the clouds to reveal a planet like most he had seen before. Vast fields of grass were laid out in a uniform pattern and ahead were the tall blocks of a large city.

The building itself was huge but fairly spartan in its decoration. The craft came into land in its own private space port. There were many different craft to be seen. Escorts were ushered into separate areas, while a communal guard escorted him to the large plain building a half mile away.

The seats in the strange vehicle were huge and the guards stood on running boards. Every now and then he caught an alien eye swivelled towards himself and his two aides. They were Federation uniforms, the sleeves emblazoned with insignia.

When they stopped one of the guards opened the door for them. They then walked behind him to the top of a short flight of steps.

‘You must be the Earth’s President.’

The voice came from the side and he turned to find a hideous-looking alien standing there. He was sure it was trying to smile.

‘Yes, Michael Montgomery, I am the elected representative of the people of Earth.’

‘How do you like to be addressed?’

‘Mr President will be fine.’

‘Then come with me Mr President. Your aides will accompany my aide. Do you have a way of communicating with them?’

‘Yes I do.’

‘Then please test your equipment once you are inside the hall and let me know if it is working. If not, we can supply you communication equipment.’

‘Thank you, I will.’

He nodded to his aides and followed the ugly one.

‘I am the Seat Master. I would tell you my name, but I discovered that it does not translate well into your language. So please simply refer to me as the Seat Master.’

‘In that case I will, Seat Master.’

The hideous form tried to smile again.

‘I see this is your first time with us.’

‘Yes it is.’

‘Are you impressed?’

‘It is much plainer than I thought it would be.’

‘By necessity. The Federation has undergone many changes in its lifespan. Many times it has come close to being torn apart. Internal strife between members is always ongoing. As for the building, this isn’t the first, nor will it be the last.

‘Back at the beginning, there was always one ruler who had the final say. When it was small, they took turns at being the supreme leader. They were allowed to decorate the building in any way they saw fit. They did so with great gusto, often trying to outdo each other. It led to a number of wars. There are races who find certain colours offensive.’

‘I am beginning to get the picture,’ Michael replied, ‘So when they built a new one, they agreed to make the building a neutral colour.’

‘That’s right, and as bereft of opulence as possible. They aren’t even allowed to decorate their private apartments. It has to be austere.’

‘No doubt it will keep their monstrous egos in check.’

A strange noise came from his companion and Michael realised the creature was giggling.

‘I am afraid I cannot answer that Mr President. To do so would be to violate my terms of service,’ he stepped to the side as a door slid out of sight in front of them, ‘In here please.’ He followed Michael inside, ‘You will sit here until called. Just before you are called to speak, the resident announcer will activate your booth. It will slide forward into an open area to your front. Once it stops he will announce you. At that point you may stand and speak to the house directly. When you have finished your speech, the members will be given an opportunity to question you. The panel in front of you will light up. Select a light and answer the question the dignitary asks of you. When all of the lights go out, you may sit down, and the booth will be returned to its resting place. You will be told when to leave, and you must do so immediately. You will not be allowed to linger longer until you are a full member of this house. Please remember, at this time, you are simply a guest.’

‘I will, thank you.’

Michael Montgomery, the elected President of Earth, was left alone to contemplate the speech he was going to make. He prayed that the advice given to him by the Modloch Emperor was the best he could get.

Chapter 41

‘Mr Michael Montgomery, the President and representative of Earth.’

The President got up from his seat and walked to the podium at the front of his booth. He’d had plenty time to take in the splendour of the assembly, its vaulted ceiling would have done a cathedral back home proud. Some of the aliens were a bit hard to take, and there were far more races there than he had already met. He realised that this was indeed the big league.

His self-introduction was simple, ‘Members of the Federation. Thank you for the invitation here today. It is unusual for a representative of a planet that has just began their journey to become a full member of the Federation to be invited before you. I realise, however, that the circumstances in which I address you are not the circumstances in which I would like to address you.

‘Some weeks ago, armed intruders from the Federation Defence Force assaulted one of our training vessels, which was a guest of the Federation at the time, and tried to arrest its Captain. The charges were fraternisation with a junior rank of the opposite sex.

‘The Sir William Wallace is not a Federation vessel and does not come under your jurisdiction. The armed intruders were subdued and arrested. They remain incarcerated, and will remain so until the Sir William Wallace reaches Earth, where they will be tried for their crimes.’

There was a roar of disapproval. The President had read the rules well and held up his left hand. The noise subsided.

‘Yesterday a combined fleet of Human and Modloch ships arrived at the training facility to escort the Sir William Wallace to the great barrier. That fleet comprises no less than two thousand ships. We know the nearest Federation fleet is almost two days away, yet the training station refuses to release the Sir William Wallace.

‘We are there to extract the Sir William Wallace and escort it to the great barrier; the Modloch fleet is there to extract the Lady Mya, one of their Royal Household. If you do not release the Sir William Wallace within six hours we will incapacitate the training station and eradicate any forces opposing us. This is a signed declaration of intent from both myself and the Emperor of the great Modloch Empire.’

The board in front of the President lit up like a Christmas tree. He took a deep breath, picked one light and pressed it. A robed figure stood.

‘Mr President, I am the representative of the Trolon Race. Do you expect to get away with defying the Federation? There are rules and regulations defining the proper conduct of all ranks.’

‘None of the people involved were part of the Federation.’

‘Still, do you not think that as a guest of the Federation, some respect should have been shown?’

‘All parties involved, as a matter of consideration to the Federation, obeyed to the letter of the law all rules and regulations regarding such a meeting. Did you not read the material you were presented with at the beginning of this session?’

The representative sat down. Many of the lights went out. He pressed another light and another representative stood up. The President recognised the Albany.

‘Mr President, I am Ts´ Le´ Tut, representative of the Albany people. You must realise of course that this problem has arisen because of the abhorrent way in which Humanity exploits its females and expects them to fight.’

‘It wasn’t all that long ago that females from your own race picked up weapons and fought Humans on board the great city ship you sent to invade our planet,’ his eyes towards the Master of the House, ‘May I be indulged, Master of the House?’

He lifted a hand and the President continued, ‘This is a battle report from a senior Commander on the ground during the battle for the city ship.’

The President flicked through his pad, ‘Our advance has been delayed for a short while by groups of Albany females, who fight with a determination and tenacity which has so far been lacking in many of their troops. There is just no give in these females. We have tried talking to them, asking them to surrender. We have offered them food for their children and themselves, and a comfortable environment to spend their last days. They have steadfastly refused. After a number of determined charges, the women have now set up a defensive perimeter and continue to take a heavy toll on my troops. I fear we will have to eradicate them entirely before we can move forward.’

The President looked up from the pad, ‘They held up our advance in that sector by six hours and won the respect of the men and women that they fought. In his last report of the day, the Commander praised their courage and determination. I know that when the battle was over, he and his men returned to the scene of the battle and themselves took care of the remains of the fallen.

‘On our planet, the females of our species are protected by a number of civil acts, including the right to equality. In our society, if a woman is up to the job, then she must be considered for it. The woman you question is Captain Jean Wilson. She is a highly-decorated member of the Earth Defence Force. An ace fighter pilot, she downed three enemy fighters in a single combat. She was also awarded decorations when she took the Sir William Wallace into combat against the Albany fleet. It was because of her actions and those of her crew that they were chosen to become a training vessel. The Sir William Wallace has the distinction of producing the finest fighting men and women of all the training vessels. Captain Jean Wilson has the respect and trust of the whole fleet. Don’t even suggest removing her.’

The Albany sat down and even more lights went out. It left only a half dozen.

He chose another one. A shorter figure than most present stood, ‘I am Queen Wiola Maleck of the Gishia race. I have to admire the way you Humans treat your females as equals, and indeed I would wish one day to meet this female Captain in person. However, are you and the Modloch Emperor seriously considering going to war with the whole Federation over this single matter?’

‘If that’s what it takes to resolve this issue, your Majesty. We did not make the rules, nor did we break them. It was the great Federation that made them, and Federation personnel that broke them.’

‘You know that taking the prisoners to Earth will be as good as a death sentence?’

‘The Federation was given an opportunity to deal with this in-house. They decided instead to try and punish us. We will not tolerate it. Neither will we tolerate the bullying that is happening here. We will happily stand at the side of the Modloch Emperor against all of you. If the Federation wishes to avoid a conflict, then it should learn to follow its own damn rules.’

She sat down and all of the lights went out but one. The President pushed it. A figure he recognised immediately stood up.

‘Do you know who I am Mr President?’

‘Emperor Ne´ Langus, leader of the Federation’s armed forces.’

‘Do you know why you are here today?’

‘Because troops under your command overstepped their boundaries and you don’t have the balls to reel them in.’

The Emperor howled with laughter as the whole room trembled, ‘I am the leader of the most powerful force ever created in the history of this galaxy and yet you talk to me in this manner. If the translation of the word balls is correct, then you must have a very large pair Mr President.’

The whole assembly burst out laughing, ‘No Mr President, you are here because I devised this whole thing. It wasn’t the Albany Colonel that ordered the storming of the Sir William Wallace and the arrest of its Captain. It was me. You see, to become a full member of the Federation, it isn’t just the men who serve under you who are tested, but also the people in command. I have to say you have passed the test with flying colours. A Human saying I believe.

‘The Albany Colonel in question did not lose his father in the war with your people. His grandfather came to my planet as a political refugee many years ago, and their family has served mine ever since. The Colonel is in fact a great personal friend of mine and I would appreciate his return intact. I ordered him to tell your people that to put them under pressure, to see how they would react to him. Your trial as a race has not only begun Mr President, it is well underway. So far, your people and yourself have exceeded expectations. Congratulations. I believe it is customary for Humans to clap hands in situations like this.’

He began to clap and within a few seconds, the whole assembly followed suit. The President felt a great relief wash over him. He looked over at the Modloch representative who was howling with laughter and clapping at the same time.

Emperor Ne´ Langus lifted a hand and the assembly quietened, ‘Mr Montgomery, all amenities will be restored to the Sir William Wallace presently. Please convey that to your people as soon as possible. Withdraw your fleet with the Modloch fleet if you please. I am heading over there very soon and will apologise to Captain Wilson personally for the trial I put her through. You will receive the first evaluation report on your people in the next week or so. I know there has been some difficulties integrating your forces into ours, however these difficulties are being addressed. You and your people are doing well Mr Montgomery. I look forward to what you and your people achieve with the Ortea.’

He inclined his head and the whole assembly stood as he took his leave.

Chapter 42

Ne´ howled with laughter, ‘And you don’t have the balls to reel them in!’ He quoted the Earth’s President again, stamping a foot in appreciation, ‘I would never have thought to say such a thing.’

Queen Wiola Maleck grasped his arm, ‘I almost peed myself when he said it Ne´. If I hadn’t already decided to pass them, I would have done it on that statement alone.’

‘I did,’ Dorg snorted in appreciation, ‘I am beginning to see what you admire in these Humans Ne´.’

‘They are a young race and they have spirit.’

‘It’s also nice to see a politician with a little backbone.’

‘I agree,’ Wiola inclined her head towards Dorg.

‘Are you really going to see that warrior female?’

‘I think I shall invite her, and the female members of her crew to the harvest dance this year. I will send it through official channels so they cannot refuse.’

An aide interrupted them. Ne´ took a tablet from him and studied it for a moment before handing it back, ‘The Human and Modloch fleet have been pulled back.’

Dorg snorted a few times, ‘That was quite a show of strength. Is it true that the Human ships are all top spec?’

‘All of them.’

‘Formidable. How many ships do they have?’

‘A thousand of those ships were Human. Five hundred arrived just a day before they made their way to Federation One. The other five hundred are attached to various Modloch fleets dotted around the Modloch Empire.’

‘Darrick seems to be getting his money’s worth out of the Humans.’

‘That and more,’ the Emperor’s laugh was more of a bark, ‘He was struggling to recover from that civil war. The Humans are making up the short fall in his own fleets and he now owns the biggest city ship ever built. He is touring his empire with it and intimidating his subjects into keeping the peace.’

‘As long as he doesn’t take it out of his own space,’ Dorg added in a more threatening tone.

‘Darrick isn’t stupid.’

‘The Humans must be, to hand over such a prize.’

‘No,’ Ne´ disagreed, ‘Would we ever have considered them for the bid if they had that?’

Dorg thought it over, ‘Probably not. A meat-eating race with that much firepower would have been considered the greatest threat to the Federation and its members in generations.’

‘Exactly, we would have strived to wipe them out.’

‘I begin to see where you are coming from Ne´. Maybe they aren’t as stupid as I first took them for.’

‘They aren’t Dorg, so be warned. You have had little contact with them and have never supported their bid. Don’t underestimate them.’

‘I was just thinking Ne´, if the Humans have five hundred ships here, and they sent another five hundred; how many ships do they have in total, how many fleets? Would that have been all of them?’

‘No one leaves their home world unprotected Dorg. I had a vessel inspect the Human fleet before it reached their rendezvous with the rest of their ships. When it tried to detain them, they turned every gun in their arsenal onto the ship.’

‘How dare they!’

‘They were under a signed declaration of intent Dorg. They had every right to refuse.’

‘We had received it by then?’

‘Yes and acknowledged it. The important thing is the data we gathered on the fleet.’

‘Something different?’

‘Yes, very. There were no freighters, fuellers or troopships.’

Dorg sat up sharply, ‘You mean five hundred warships, nothing else!’

‘Nothing. As I said, top spec ships, faster than anything we have and even the Modloch ships they are designed after. Their Commanders are aggressive and assertive. The composition of the fleet also suggested aggression, and the willingness to fight. They gave our ship one warning and one opportunity to leave.’

‘It makes you wonder what they left at home.’

‘I have no idea. Every probe we send is destroyed. We know they have a completed space station just over the great barrier opposite Modloch space. If they do it right, they will soon have many more at strategic points along the barrier.’

‘What are the chances of them doing it right?’

‘Very good.’

‘Did you deploy any probes after the Human fleet crossed the barrier Ne´?’

Ne´ smiled, ‘You know me so well Dorg. Yes I did, they were all destroyed. None of them got more than those we had sent before.’

‘Do we know the population of their home world?’

‘Billions.’

‘You know for sure?’

‘I have a book that tells me all about it. The planet is covered in water, about two thirds. Doesn’t look anything like ours. A huge diversity in life.’

‘You seem to know a lot about them Ne´.’

‘As I said I have books, paper books, that tell me all about it, and an entertaining series of documentaries that I have watched more than once. My family love them.’

‘I have never seen paper outside of a museum.’

‘We were all invited to attend the day the Humans put forward their bid to join the Federation. There were gifts for those who attended. It included a writing desk made out of wood. I believe if you request information from their department of foreign affairs, with a view to supporting their bid, you could still receive the same gift.’

‘I heard a lot about that day, didn’t they have animals from their home world with them?’

‘They did, and they were truly wonderful. They spent a month on my home world, my people are truly smitten by them. They also completed a tour of all my other planets. I myself have seen them many times and even touched some of them. Do yourself a favour Dorg, let the Humans know you are considering supporting their bid, ask for information and request a visit by the animals. I charged a small admittance fee and made millions.’

‘Seriously?’

‘Of course.’

‘I might.’

Queen Wiola put down her glass, ‘I think I will, once I meet the female Commander and her crew. I will make a decision then.’

Ne´ stood, ‘Well I have duties to attend, and a personal apology to make. Maybe more than one.’

They stood and bowed low to one of the greatest Commanders that the Federation had even known.

Chapter 43

Tension rippled through the Sir William Wallace. There was a sudden lurch that threw those standing off balance.

‘What the hell was that!’ Jean demanded.

‘They have pulled us back in Captain. Airlocks are now engaging. It looks like they are about to board us.’

Jean got onto the intercom, ‘Stand by everyone, remember those are our people out there, no one is to get hurt.’

‘Captain,’ one of the operators shouted to get her attention.

‘Yes, what is it,’ Jean could feel her guts tighten.

‘All services have been reinstated.’

‘Ma’am, it looks like the personnel outside are leaving,’ another called out.

‘Comms are coming back online,’ called the signaller, ‘We are receiving a communication. It is from the President.’

‘Put it on screen and send it throughout the ship.’

Michael Montgomery appeared just as he looked to his left, ‘Are we connected?’

‘Yes Sir, they can see you now,’ an unseen person answered.

He turned back to the screen, ‘Ah, okay. Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen of the Sir William Wallace. I have just spoken to the members of the Federation and this dispute has been resolved. You are to release your captives immediately. All amenities will be returned forthwith.

‘I also wish to thank all of you for the great courage and resolution you have shown during this crisis. It would seem that this crisis was manufactured by the Federation to test the will of our people. Those onboard the Sir William Wallace have received nothing but praise from the Federation for their behaviour during this trying time. You are, and remain, a shining example to all of how we should conduct ourselves while serving in this part of the galaxy.

‘The final test was aimed at myself and the senior Commanders. However, we could not have done our jobs so well if it hadn’t been for all of you. Thank you. And Captain Wilson, thank you for your exemplary conduct throughout this last month, and for the way you have kept a cool head throughout.’

‘Just doing my job Sir.’

‘You certainly have. I am going to have you relieved by another training vessel soon; Admiral Baxter will be in touch with you soon for orders.’

‘Thank you Sir.’

‘To you and all of your crew, thank you once more.’

The screen went blank. Jean felt a moment of dizziness as the tension flowed out of her. It took her a few seconds to gain her composure. When she opened her eyes again, the whole bridge was watching her.

She smiled, ‘Mr Black, release the prisoners, get them off my ship.’

‘I would be delighted to Ma’am.’

‘Tell everyone to stand down.’

Smiling faces and laughter made a reappearance on the bridge as they went about their daily tasks.

‘Looks like we got dressed up for nothing Charlie,’ Cookie grinned.

‘I think I’ve just about had enough for the day Cookie, how about a few beers?’

‘Sounds like a plan to me.’

‘The messes aren’t open,’ Jean called after them.

Cookie held up an arm, ‘We brought our own.’ They never looked back.

Chapter 44

Colonel Man Dei was slowly beginning to lose his grip on reality. He thought the Humans standing over him were a figment of his imagination. In over a month nobody had spoken more than a few words to him. It wasn’t until the jet of cold water hit him that he regained his senses.

‘Get up on your damn feet,’ the voice ordered again.

‘What?’

‘Get on your damn feet,’ a pile of clothes hit him on the back, ‘Get dressed, you are being released.’

The Human left, leaving the Colonel in a strange state of disjointed reality. The familiar feel of his uniform under his hands slowly brought him round. He stripped off the boiler suit that had been his only clothing for the past few months and slowly dressed.

The door of his cell banged open fifteen minutes later and the guard looked him up and down, ‘Seriously? Hurry up!’

Man Dei finished dressing. He was sure it was a trick and the Humans would soon throw him back into the cell. The door banged open for a final time.

‘Come on, hurry up.’

He was grabbed by the shoulder and almost propelled into the corridor where there were another three guards, all armed. Two walked in front of him, the others pushed him constantly from the back.

Man Dei wanted to cry out. He knew this game, he knew they were going to throw him back into his cell and wanted to tell them he was way ahead of the curve. By the time he reached the airlock, the blood was thumping through his head. A strange coloured Marine was waiting there. This one had coal black skin. Man Dei averted his eyes. He didn’t want to provoke a violent outburst. Humans were strange creatures, but he had discovered few liked to be stared at.

The Marine slammed the open button with the palm of his hand and he could hear the faint whirling of the mechanism. It was a trick, he knew it was a trick, it would open and the prison cells would be in front of him. He was shocked therefore to see his second in command and a pair of Federation troopers.

The officer eventually cocked his head, ‘Sir! Are you coming?’

Man Dei had to cough to find his voice, ‘Of course.’

He could hear his blood pound through his head with each step he took. As his right foot swung over the yellow line he thought he was going to faint. Every second he either expected to wake up or to be pulled back onto the ship that had been his prison.

His foot hit the metal plating of the station and the second followed. Three steps he had taken before he heard the hiss of the door closing behind him. It was too much. He tried to run and stumbled. Hitting the wall, he slid down it.

‘Are you all right Sir?’

Man Dei pushed an offered hand away, ‘Give me a moment.’

His eyes turned to the cold metal airlock door. After all he had endured there was no apology, no words of comfort, not even a nasty rebuke or rude gesture that the Humans were usually so fond of. His equilibrium slowly returned as his juniors waited with nervous impatience. When he felt steady enough he struggled to his feet and followed his escort to the command tower.

Commodore Borach No looked the dishevelled Man Dei up and down.

‘You don’t look well Colonel, have you recovered from your wounds?’

‘Yes Sir, fully. May I ask what happened?’

‘Haven’t you been kept informed?’

‘I was kept in a cell by myself Sir. The Humans barely talked to me while I was incarcerated.’

Borach No took a deep breath, ‘How dare they treat one of my officers like that! I will complain and get justice for you Colonel.’

Man Dei held up a hand, ‘Please no. I just want all of this to be over.’

‘Are you sure?’

‘I was the idiot that got caught after all.’

‘You do have a point Colonel. I doubt if it will stain your record though.’

Commodore Borach No brought Man Dei up to speed on everything that had happened. Man Dei absorbed it all. It was hard to believe that it had been little over a month since he had first stepped on board that ship and been captured. His mind drifted away.

‘Colonel. Colonel!’

‘I am sorry Sir.’

‘Did you get all of that?’

‘Yes Sir I did, thank you.’

Borach No leaned back, ‘I am curious about one thing. How did you get caught? I have read the reports, but it doesn’t make sense.’

‘I still don’t know what happened Sir. It still doesn’t make sense to me. One moment we had the upper hand and the next I was being smashed against the wall. I never saw them move. I admit, I thought I was going to die.’

‘They aren’t that fast, I have seen Humans train.’

‘Those men were different Sir. That is as much as I can tell you. How are my men?’

‘They seem to be fine. You may lose one though.’

‘How so?’

‘The one that struck a member of the Royal Modloch Household, the Lady Mya.’

‘I don’t understand.’

‘Then you weren’t aware?’

‘Aware of what Sir?’

‘The Lady Mya, the chaperone.’

‘I know which one you are talking about. She leapt in front of us and one of my men slapped her out of the way.’

‘That female is a member of the Royal Modloch Household.’

‘How can that possibly be?’

‘To the best of my knowledge she met a Royal Prince once and he bequeathed all that was his to her.’

‘Bequeathed!’

‘Yes, the Grand Prince Gairloch, who gave his life for his brother and Emperor, the original Captain of the Burning Wind. The Emperor granted his brother’s last wish. Your little incident damn near started a war with the Modloch Empire. We had two thousand ships sitting at the outer barrier waiting to assault this station. Half of them Modloch, the other thousand Human.’

Man Dei forgot his discipline and rubbed at his long neck with both hands.

‘I had no idea.’

‘You really stirred the shit bucket Colonel.’

‘It would seem so Sir. Are any of us really safe?’

‘I think so. I have only had one request for a discrete transfer. You were following our Grand Commander’s orders, correct?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘He is concerned for your welfare. You are to take a few weeks home leave.’

A tremble went through the Colonel’s body, ‘I appreciate that Sir.’

‘Your transport leaves tomorrow. In the meantime, report to the Doctor for a check-up, then rest.’

Chapter 45

It had taken a whole two weeks to settle Man Dei’s nerves. The first night had been the worst. His small spartan room on the station had reminded him of the cell; he had sat in a corner and bellowed half the night. In the end, he had got up and spent the night in the officer’s club. Once sufficiently inebriated, he had managed to fall asleep.

It had taken a good three hours into his journey home before his head began to clear. The journey took five days, but at least there were a few other officers of equal rank for company.

Now at the end of his leave, he sat on a bench in the back garden of the Emperor’s country estate. A light, warm breeze brought the scent of freshly cut grass to him. The grass was the best this world could produce and would fill the Emperor’s table that night, along with other greens produced in his garden.

A light laugh caught his attention and he turned his head to watch Princess Nea running through the garden, pursued by one of her maids. It was obvious the maid didn’t think it was so funny. Man Dei smiled.

There was a crunch of gravel nearby, ‘It is good to see you smile again Colonel.’

Man Dei shot to his feet. ‘I am sorry Sire, I did not hear you coming.’

‘Sit down please; you have earned that right.’

Man Dei felt a little awkward sitting in the presence of his master, but obeyed.

‘Thank you Sire. I was smiling at Princess Nea. She is keeping her maids active as usual.’

‘I have five sons, all strong and healthy, but she is the one that fills my heart with joy, she is the one that makes me smile every day. That is why I like to keep her close.’

‘She makes everyone smile Sire. I would gladly give my life to keep her safe.’

The Emperor grasped his shoulder, ‘That is why you are one of my most trusted retainers. There is something I need to know. Did you advocate any violence during your mission?’

‘I only permitted the use of weapons set on stun Sire. I imagined the only threat to be armed guards and the Captain herself, as she carries a sidearm most of the time.’

‘So you only advocated the use of violence against armed military personnel.’

‘Yes Sire. In the face of Humans using chemical based weapons, I had instructed my troops to throw down their weapons and surrender immediately if they didn’t take them out with the first shot. It is all in my report.’

‘I have read it but I wanted to hear it from your own mouth. I see it, I hear it, I believe it.’

‘I had no idea that Human female was a member of the Modloch Royal family.’

‘It came as a bit of a shock to all of us.’

‘Why didn’t the Modloch react sooner?’

‘Because they didn’t know. She simply never told anyone. It wasn’t until Ambassador Gordon reached his own fleet stationed at the Modloch home world that the news slipped out. Then they took action together.’

‘Which was far more effective than if the Humans had acted alone. Do you think the Modloch Emperor guided them?’

‘I have little doubt about that, however, what guidance he gave them is up for debate. He does hate politicians.’

‘Maybe just enough to point them in the right direction.’

‘I will ask him myself, the next time I see him. How about you, are you feeling well now? Please don’t lie, I have read the medical report.’

‘Physically I am fine. Mentally, I am feeling a lot better now. I believe that I am well enough to resume my duties.’

‘Would you like to be removed from Federation One?’

‘No, I think I should face my fears.’

‘I had no idea the Humans would be so cruel as to keep you isolated for so long.’

‘I have come to believe that they were not being intentionally cruel Sire. It is just the way they do things.’

‘Your companions say the food was good.’

‘That is true Sire. With a little company, I would have been fine.’

‘That’s the spirit Colonel. I wonder what their reaction to you will be now that they know the truth about your background.’

‘I am sure it will be different. Maybe they will begin calling me Mandy to my face.’

‘Mandy, what is that?’

‘It is a female name Sire. They think I don’t know.’

‘Derogatory.’

‘Yes, and condescending. The Humans call it a nickname. I did try and research the giving of nicknames, however, it is all very confusing. It can be good or bad. In my case bad,’ he laughed.

‘You find it funny?’

‘Not at first, but I do now. In some ways, it is a form of acceptance. I wonder if I can turn that to good.’

‘You will have the opportunity to find out. Join us for dinner tonight,’ the Emperor got to his feet and Man Dei followed him.

‘You do me a great honour Sire.’

‘You serve me well Colonel. Despite what you endured, you never once revealed the true nature of your mission. I admire your courage. Thank you.’

Man Dei thought he was floating as he made his way back to his small room. It had been the most perfect of days.

Chapter 46

Commanders John Logan and Alfie Lloyd were passing the time of day with Colonel Howe and Beaver. Charlie was also in attendance. The two Federation officers were interested in the meeting with the Ortea. It was at that moment that Man Dei made an appearance. John broke the awkward silence that had suddenly sprung up.

‘Colonel, you are back.’

‘Obviously Commander Logan.’

‘Have you recovered from your incarceration?’

‘I believe so.’

‘I also hear that all the stories you told us about your family were lies.’

‘That is correct. My family is in service to the Emperor Ne´ Langus, as am I.’

‘Another sort of test?’

‘Of course. To be commanded and ordered about by one you naturally consider an enemy is a very big test of suitability to join the Federation. I have to say, it is a test that you all passed.’

‘So you feel no loyalty to your own race Sir?’

‘None at all. My father was a political refugee from our home world. The Emperor’s father found him useful and he became a retainer. I was brought up with the serving Emperor and followed him into the Federation so I could continue to serve.’

‘Which you still do.’

‘Of course,’ his eyes swivelled towards the other two officers, ‘We have met before gentlemen.’

‘We have,’ Howe answered, ‘You told us a story about a race that turned people to water. You were also curious as to how our Ambassador was served by his military personnel. I hear you have had a personal taste of that. I hope you are now reassured.’

It took Man Dei a moment to answer, ‘I can only answer that I am reassured. I hear you are on a mission to meet the Ortea.’

‘That is correct, they have requested a visit from our Goodwill Ambassador.’

‘Then it reassures me that he is so well served. A word of warning: the Ortea have devices that nullify standard Federation weapons. I would advise you to use chemical-based ones.’

Howe’s eyes moved past Man Dei, ‘Did you hear that Charlie?’

‘I did, aye.’

Man Dei stiffened. He knew that voice, even if it had been through a pain filled haze. He turned slowly, eyes swivelling down.

‘You must be Captain Murison?’

‘Colonel Mandy I believe.’

‘That is Man Dei.’

‘Aye, of course. I head up a team that collects information on the races that our Ambassadors will be visiting. That was a very useful piece of information. Do you have any other pearls of wisdom?’

‘Pearls of wisdom, is that another Human saying?’

‘Pearls are quite rare and beautiful things.’

‘I see. We have a database you can link to. It concerns mainly with battles fought with the Ortea. I can send you a link.’

‘I would appreciate that Colonel.’

Beaver interrupted them with a cheeky grin, ‘Hey Charlie, how did your dinner date go?’

‘It went quite well to start with.’

‘Is romance in the air?’

‘Being investigated by a Federation ethical committee is a bit of a passion killer, Beaver.’

The Humans burst out laughing, ‘Hard luck bud.’

Man Dei was now feeling very uncomfortable. ‘Gentlemen, if you will excuse me, I am afraid I must be about my duties.’

They watched him leave, each detecting an unsteady wobble in his gait.

‘You really scared the shit out of him Charlie,’ Beaver mused once he had gone.

‘I tend to have that effect on people Beaver. Don’t forget Cookie was there as well.’

Alfie burst out laughing, ‘You two really took out a whole troop unarmed? That’s unbelievable man.’

Charlie smiled, ‘It wasn’t a full troop, more like a small section.’ He turned to Howe, ‘We have finished re-provisioning.’

‘Why didn’t you just inform us through the link?’

‘I have Babes switched off, she is nipping my head.’

Beaver shook his head, ‘I wish I had an off switch.’

‘Me too,’ Howe agreed. ‘Are you heading back to the ship?’

‘Aye, the sooner I’m away from this shithole, the happier I will be.’

‘See you back on board Charlie.’

‘Later.’

Charlie left them to it. Beaver and Howe soon followed, leaving the two Federation officers alone.

‘I bet you’re glad you didn’t mess with that guy now John?’

John nodded in agreement, ‘I'm glad I took the warning seriously Alfie. Time to get back to it bud.’

‘The sooner the rest of the crew is up to spec the better. I’m sick of patrolling this place, it’s boring.’

‘That’s not what you said when two thousand ships appeared out of the black.’

Alfie laughed, ‘I almost shit myself, even if I was expecting it.’

‘It was quite a sight. Would you have had a problem shooting at our own people?’

‘I’ve spent a life time shooting at our own people, though I’ve got to admit it feels a little different now.’

‘Maybe we are finally coming to realise we are just one race amongst many.’

‘Something like that,’ Alfie admitted. ‘Let’s git.’

Chapter 47

Jean watched the two ships undock and slowly make their way to the outer markers.

‘They are beautiful ships, aren’t they Mary?’

‘They are very different to the Sir William Wallace Ma’am, that’s for sure.’

‘I think they look like teardrops.’

‘They do, don’t they?’

‘Yes.’

‘Are you still hung up on him? You know the crew don’t think all that much of him.’

‘Every man and woman who trained with him and Cookie sang their praises.’

‘That’s work Ma’am. That isn’t his looks or personality. If you ask me they leave a lot to be desired.’

Jean smiled, ‘I have had a lifetime of super pretty guys who are completely full of themselves and their own looks come after me. They are very shallow creatures Mary. Not all maybe, but most of the ones I have met. Guys, normal guys, like Charlie, don’t even pass the time of day with me in a bar, it’s almost as though they run a mile.’

‘Of course they do, they know they won’t stand a chance.’

‘That’s very shallow of you Mary.’

Mary shrugged, ‘I know. I don’t care, that’s just the way it is. The guy is just a jumped up Sergeant, well below your league.’

When the ships disappeared Jean turned to face Mary.

‘If he had even tried a little, I would have given in like that,’ Jean snapped her fingers.

Mary was shocked, ‘Ma’am, that’s not like you.’

‘I can’t remember wanting a man so badly, and I don’t mean in the sexual sense either. I liked his company and miss his council. You called him a jumped up Sergeant; yet it was Charlie who could see more clearly than anyone else what was going on. I was fully prepared to fight the ship to the death, and the crew, even though I had ordered otherwise. I regretted those orders and was on the brink of changing them. He was the one that helped me see what was going on, to accept my own orders. No one else Mary. If it hadn’t been for him things may well have turned out differently, very differently. So please don’t call him a jumped up Sergeant again, or I will be looking for a new steward.’

Mary gasped and her face turned a bright red, ‘I apologise Ma’am. I was just trying to help you shrug him off, you know, shoot the man down and all that.’

Jean turned back to the window and reached out, ‘I am sorry too Mary. I knew what you were doing, I just took out my black mood on you,’ Jean sighed, her head going back, eyes closing for a moment. ‘I had an opportunity, you know, but my courage failed me in the end. I am only mad at myself.’

Jean turned away from the window to the confused look on Mary’s face and smiled.

‘Don’t worry about it. Finish up here and go get your lunch.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

A short while later Jean’s buzzer went. She pressed the button, ‘Yes?’

‘Ma’am, I have a request from Colonel Man Dei to come aboard. He is requesting an appointment with you.’

Jean was shocked, ‘Are you sure?’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

‘Is he insane?’

‘Probably.’

‘Standby.’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

Jean thought long and hard about it. Eventually, more out of curiosity than anything else, she accepted his request.

Man Dei felt a shudder flow through him as he stepped onboard the Sir William Wallace again. An armed guard guided him to the Captain’s quarters.

The guard stepped inside. Jean was sitting behind her desk. Man Dei stepped up to the desk and bowed.

‘I am both surprised and delighted that you accepted my request Captain.’

‘I think I am more curious than anything else Colonel. I certainly don’t want you on my ship. Why on Earth have you requested to see me?’

‘A number of reasons Captain Wilson. The first maybe to exorcise my own demons. A Human saying, I believe.’

‘You weren’t here that long Colonel, and despite your initial injuries, you weren’t ill-treated.’

His eyes rolled down, ‘In the Federation it is illegal to incarcerate someone on their own. Most of the races on this side of the great barrier, including my own, have a herding instinct. We do not function well when we are isolated from others. In fact it is considered cruel.’

Jean was amused, ‘I had not realised that Colonel. Still, I find it hard to apologise, if that is what you are after.’

‘I am not looking for an apology Captain, merely facing my fears.’

‘Was it that bad?’

‘It was, yes. Terrible in fact.’

‘Then for facing those fears Colonel, you have at least earned an ounce of my respect. Now what else are you here for?’

‘I was placed in charge of training the Human contingent here for a very good reason. Not only am I the best at what I do, I also have a direct line to our Grand Commander. I can cut through the red tape. Not having access to your ship makes my job far more difficult.’

‘Your appeal is wasted Colonel, I have been promised that this ship will soon be relieved.’

‘I know for a fact that the Grand Commander has specifically requested that the Sir William Wallace remain here. His wish will be granted Captain, of that you can be sure.’

Jean’s good humour evaporated, ‘Why would he do that?’

‘Quite simply, you and your crew have won the admiration of the staff here and throughout the Federation. We know you and admire your high moral values. I recently spoke to the Commander of the ethical committee that came on board. He is a very hard person to impress, yet you all did so.’

‘Do you know what you put us through Colonel?’

‘Of course I do. The whole point of the test was to stretch you and your crew to extreme limits, to see how you reacted. Your proper conduct throughout the test is considered exceptional Captain. You should be proud.’

‘I have a lot of pride in my crew, and my ship Colonel, they are aware of that.’

‘May I add that you have also gone a long way towards having females accepted within the ranks of the Federation. There is a faction that are trying to have all Human females removed from Federation service. Your conduct has gone a long way to silencing those voices.’

‘I wasn’t aware of that.’

‘A request for removal from this post may well have a detrimental effect on that cause. Many will say that you couldn’t handle the pressure.’

‘Because I am female.’

‘Yes Captain.’

‘I never asked to be removed Colonel, it was the Earth’s President who told us, promised in fact, that we would be relieved.’

‘I see. Well, if you stay, my request stands. If you leave, I wish you to know I harbour no ill will against you or your crew. I also hope that your career will continue to be successful.’

‘Thank you Colonel, I will give your request careful consideration.’

Chapter 48

Michael Montgomery hadn’t been expecting a call from the Captain of the Sir William Wallace. It had taken a few hours for him to find ten minutes in his schedule to accept it. She had been waiting; he had forgotten just how attractive the woman was.

‘A pleasure to see you again Captain Wilson, is there some pressing matter you need to speak to me about? My aides tell me you refused to discuss it with them.’

‘You could say I want to hear something straight from the lion’s mouth, Mr President. Is it true that the Grand Commander of the Federation has requested that the Sir William Wallace and her crew stays here at Federation One?’

The President’s jaw dropped open for a few short seconds.

‘Word certainly travels fast around this part of the galaxy. We only received the request yesterday and we aren’t scheduled to discuss the matter for another week at least. However, it isn’t going to happen. I am having you sent home as soon as a replacement has been found. I won’t have you or your crew subjected to any more of this Federation crap.’

Jean took a deep breath, ‘I have talked to my senior ranks, and my crew. We are in favour of staying Sir, we want to see the job finished before we return home. Two thirds of my crew are already accredited. We are almost there.’

Michael leaned back against the comfortable backrest with a smile on his face, ‘After what you have been subjected to Captain, that took a lot of courage. I had forgotten just what a hardy breed you Scots are.’

Jean returned his smile, ‘We aren’t all Scottish Mr President.’

‘There is something else I would like to discuss with you: Queen Wiola Maleck of the Gishia race has requested the attendance of you and the female members of your crew at a harvest festival a few months from now. Shall I accept on your behalf?’

Jean was immediately alarmed, ‘Have you had someone investigate just what the festival entails Sir?’

‘No, why?’

Jean was remembering one of Charlie’s warnings, ‘Many of these races have very bizarre rituals, some of which may not be compatible with Human beliefs or moral values. Many races have gone to war over cultural misunderstandings at such festivals.’

‘So wait and find out what it is all about first?’

‘Yes Sir. I will have my own people look into it too.’

‘Thank you for that Captain. When we discuss the redeployment of the Sir William Wallace I will tell those involved that you wish to remain.’

‘So we are staying then?’

‘If that is your wish Captain, I will honour it. Is there anything else?’

‘No Sir.’

‘Then you shall receive your official orders in the next few days. Have a pleasant evening Captain.’

‘And you Sir, good night.’

Chapter 49

A few weeks later, Jean was wishing that she had taken the easy route out. She was holding a meeting with her Chief Engineer and his staff.

‘So where is the biggest problem Chief?’

‘The biggest problem is the mathematics.’

‘Why? You all have degrees.’

‘It’s fairly simple: there is little common ground between our races.’

‘The Federation has a standard that is taught throughout the galaxy. You need to learn it.’

‘It isn’t something we can learn on the hoof. There is no commonality between the symbols they use and those we use. There are whole sections of mathematics and mathematical symbols we have never even seen before. This math doesn’t even exist on Earth.’

‘The navigators seem to be doing well.’

‘The maths they are using are fairly straight forward. We have to deal with much more. We also need to split our engineering skills into sections. We need one section to deal with all of the different drives: the inner atmospheric drive, inner planetary drive, interstellar drive. Another to deal with field harmonics: the force fields that keep us safe in battle, the fields that prevent us being splashed against a wall when we accelerate, the different type of force fields generated within the engine itself. We also need another section to deal with the structure and basic maintenance of the ship. Hell, we don’t even know how the damn ship is wired. If it wasn’t for our Modloch engineers we would have been stuffed a long time ago.

‘Right now we are learning Ma’am, but it is monkey see monkey do. We need to get ahead of the curve, get back to school, back to basics. I think we can do it.’

‘But if you all leave then we are stranded, and for years too.’

He sat back, shaking his head, ‘There is nothing we can do about that. We need to get in at the ground floor and start from there. I have a master’s degree in engineering but here I am treated like an imbecile. It is frustrating.’

There was more than one nodding their heads around the table.

‘Okay ladies and gentlemen, leave it with me.’

Jean returned to her quarters and slumped down on the couch. Her head thumped, it would mean another meeting with Man Dei, and she was not looking forward to it. Since the incident Man Dei had been nothing but respectful, and it was obvious that he knew his job. He had torn through the Sir William Wallace like a hurricane and missed no flaw.

Her engineers had been right. Every ship in the fleet was brand new, but what would happen when they got older. On this side of the great barrier there were Modloch engineers to help point the way. Back home there was nothing. There was a constant flow of engineers moving back and forth across the great barrier, trying to instil that which they had learned on this side to those back home. Jean knew it wasn’t nearly enough, and the pressure was now beginning to bear down on her.

She put a call through to Man Dei and he told her to come to his office. She made her way there alone. The strange alien smell didn’t help her growing headache. She was directed to wait in a small room between Man Dei’s office and his secretaries.

Her patience was wearing thin when a large alien came out. Instead of leaving, the alien approached her.

‘So you are a Human female soldier?’

‘What of it!’ Jean snapped back.

‘Don’t you feel used by the males of your species, being sent out to fight?’

Jean got slowly to her feet, ‘There is a thing on my planet called equality. The females on Earth fought very long and hard to get it; some even gave their lives in that pursuit. At one time the males of our home world were as backward as those of the Federation,’ she could see the temper rise in the alien in front of her.

‘You dare call us backward? Your planet is the primitive one.’

‘You may have the advantage of technology, but from my perspective, that is the only advantage.’

‘Our females know their place.’

‘Typical! Well so do Human females, and that place is wherever we damn well please. I will tell you something else: it is much harder for a female to achieve a high rank than a male. So if you do see a Human female of high rank, you can guarantee she is probably better than all the males who surround her.’

‘What is your name?’

‘My name is Jean Wilson, I am the Captain of the Earth ship the Sir William Wallace. Who the hell are you?’

‘Emperor Ne´ Langus, Grand Commander of the Federation Forces. I wasn’t aware of who you were Captain. I believe I owe you an apology.’

The blood began to pound through Jean’s temples. In front of her was the person who had just put them through hell.

‘Your words may say you’re sorry, but the tone of your voice doesn’t. I don’t give a damn who you are. My ship and crew are not part of the Federation and did not deserve what you put us through.’

‘I have already apologised.’

‘If you meant it, then I might have accepted it. Right now however, I would far rather put a hole in your head.’

‘I will take that as a refusal then.’

The Emperor turned and walked out the door. Jean was just about to follow when Man Dei came out of his office.

‘Captain Wilson, you are here already. I am sorry to keep you waiting, I had a guest,’

‘Yes, we met.’

‘Come in Captain.’

The meeting was long and tiresome. When Jean returned to the ship she took some pain killers and took herself off the duty roster. A good night’s sleep later she was in a far better mood when a call came in. To her surprise it was Charlie. She had the call put through to her office.

She smiled when he appeared on screen, ‘This is new.’

Charlie returned the smile, ‘Business I’m afraid.’

‘What can I help you with Charlie?’

‘This may sound a little strange, but the first thing I would like you to do is introduce yourself.’

‘To whom?’

Charlie slid to the side and a strange-looking creature slid into view.

‘I am Pella Gaun. I am Dent.’

‘Oh. Hello. I am Jean Wilson.’

‘Could you give me your designation?’

‘Sorry?’

‘Your full rank and so on,’ Charlie interrupted.

‘Oh! If you wish. I am Captain Jean Wilson, Captain of the Earth battleship the Sir William Wallace.’

The Dent clapped its hands in an almost feminine fashion.

‘It is true. Have you been involved in many battles?’

‘Yes I have. I have fought this ship too. After our largest battle, the ship and crew were commended. We were asked to become a training vessel.’

The hands were clapped again, ‘That is such an honour. Thank you Captain. I hope one day we can meet in person.’

The figure disappeared. Charlie watched Pella leave, before turning back to Jean.

‘Sorry about that. She wanted confirmation that our females were allowed to fight, command ships and that kind of stuff.’

‘She, that was a she?’

‘Aye, a wee hottie. A daughter of one of the people here.’

Jean burst out laughing, ‘You did not just say that.’

‘Why, are you jealous?’

Jean laughed out loud again, ‘I somehow don’t think that she will be any competition. I thought you were on the Ortea home world?’

‘We are. It is a bit of a long story. They are a species of herbivore that started the war with the Ortea in the first place. They now live alongside them.’

‘As food.’ Jean shuddered.

‘No, they pretty much became reliant on each other a very long time ago. The Dent were the advanced race, the Ortea had never taken to space. The Dent did to them what the Albany attempted to do to us. They didn’t realise that the bulk of Ortea lived underground, and survived the initial attack. When the Dent tried to terraform the planet the Ortea appeared and assaulted their ships, catching thousands of them. They used the ships to attack the Dent home world. The thing was, they needed the Dent to maintain the ships.’

‘Stolen technology,’ Jean was nodding to herself, ‘We know that story.’

‘We certainly do.’

‘I have never heard of the Dent before.’

‘That’s because they are supposed to be extinct.’

‘Did the Ortea wipe them all out?’

‘Nope, that was another species of herbivore. The Emperor of that species is currently the Grand Commander of the Federation.’

Jean folded her arms, ‘I met him yesterday.’

‘Did you now? I sincerely hope you were nice and polite.’

‘Well, to be truthful, we had a fight.’

The smile left Charlie’s face, ‘Please tell me you are joking.’

‘A verbal spat, but it wasn’t pleasant. He was very condescending.’

‘Let me guess, you went off on one.’

‘I wasn’t in a good mood anyway, but what does it matter?’

‘It matters because he is an Emperor, it matters because he is probably the most powerful male in this part of the galaxy, it matters because these guys have egos bigger than your ship. They don’t take insults lightly and have whole divisions of torturers and executioners to deal with people that piss them off.’

‘You are joking, right?’

‘No I’m bloody not. It is how I got to know the Modloch Emperor. He took umbrage at something I did and said. He tried to have me tortured and executed.’

Jean’s good mood evaporated, ‘Was that why you beat up his guards?’

‘His guards and his nasty boys.’

‘Couldn’t you have just beamed out?’

‘He knows about that stuff and has dampening fields around his residences.’

Jean’s mind was racing, ‘He wouldn’t, would he?’

‘He would, and he will. You are also female.’

‘You mean that makes it worse.’

‘Ten times.’

Jeans eyes closed, ‘What do I do Charlie?’

‘If you get the opportunity, apologise profusely.’

‘If I don’t get the opportunity?’

‘Then you are as good as dead.’

‘I am such a bloody idiot,’ her eyes opened, ‘How did you survive Charlie?’

‘Fast thinking, faster talking. I also got the drop on them.’

‘Wait, you mean the Emperor was there!’

‘Oh aye, he came to watch. I will explain it fully at a later date if you want.’

‘Yes, please do.’

‘I got to get back to it. See you later.’ The screen went blank.

Chapter 50

Emperor Ne´ Langus read the report in a state of shock. He put the tablet down slowly. His mind took a moment to clear.

‘I want this verified immediately.’

‘I have verified it three times Sire.’

‘Three times?’

‘Yes Sire, I actually talked to the Human Goodwill Ambassador myself, in person. He is waiting for a reply. I told him it may take a while.’

‘Under section 333999 of the Federation articles, I want an immediate emergency meeting of the Federation council. Please convey my gratitude to the Goodwill Ambassador. Tell him I have invoked section 333999. He should have an answer within twelve hours. I want our top negotiators here inside those twelve hours and ready to take control of this situation. Have our fastest ship made ready. I also want a full transcript of the Ambassador’s communication sent to every member of the great council.’

‘Yes Sire,’ his aide hesitated, ‘Do you really think this is correct Sire?’

‘Do you suspect that they have been captured and are being forced to do it?’

‘It had crossed my mind.’

‘I simply don’t see what the Ortea would gain by doing that. Move quickly now.’

‘Yes Sire.’

The ground-based communication centre was on the nearest planet, three hours away. They were more secure than the systems available on a ship. The members could also lock themselves away for maximum privacy. When section 333999 was evoked, this was exactly the protocol that they were required to follow. As most of the councillors were on their home planet, they were already assembled by the time Emperor Ne´ Langus reached a secure location.

He found he was too agitated to sit and instead paced back and forth until there were enough members present.

‘I am sure you have all, by now, read the literature I had sent out to each of you. I am also sure you are aware that this is momentous. It would seem that the Ortea have not been consuming our people as we thought. It is worse. They are forcing couples to breed and then harvesting the young ones. Among the list are those from Noble, even Royal, families. The question is, what do we do about it now?’

There was uproar. Almost all advocated some form of war to begin with, then a few of the deeper thinkers began to become involved in the discussion. Grand Chancellor Serrivelli finally got the chance to speak.

‘We are all thinking with hearts and not our heads. Let us look at the cold hard facts. They have not been murdering and eating every race they have come across. Obviously those with skills have been syphoned off. The Earth’s Ambassador states quite clearly that those people, although they are prisoners, have been treated quite well. They even have their own cultural centres. It is those with no practical skills who have been turned into breeders. A race called the Dent, thought to be extinct, do in fact make up a large percentage of that world’s population. Few are ever eaten and their relationship with the Ortea is more symbiotic. I wonder how you feel about that, Grand Commander?’

‘You mean because it was my race that wiped out the Dent and took over their home world Chancellor?’

‘Exactly.’

‘I will not allow them to return, if that is what you wish to know.’

‘It is. Which means that if we go to into some form of protracted ground war with the Ortea, we will no doubt all be responsible for wiping the Dent out for a second time.’

‘We could give them refuge,’ suggested another.

‘Why would we? As I have already stated, the relationship between the Dent and the Ortea is symbiotic. The Ortea fight and protect, while the Dent keep their cities working and their ships in fighting order. The details from the Ambassador are quite explicit in this. We all want an end to this war. I can see an opportunity here, but we first have to accept that we cannot separate these two races.’

‘Why can’t we just fight them and rescue our people?’ Asked another council member.

‘I am not a military strategist, however, I think that to even have a chance of success it would take more resources than the Federation possesses. Each of us would have to provide a vast army, one capable of fighting a protracted ground war. That would mean special training, weapons, supplies. Grand Commander, could you help me out here?’

‘You are correct Grand Chancellor Serrivelli. We do not have the resources to fight a protracted ground war, only the Humans do, and even if we accepted them into the Federation right now, their legal obligations would not cover the amount of soldiers and material needed. We would have to split their forces up into training units. That is the only solution. It could take years to organise.’

‘That is unacceptable,’ came the cry from a few.

Ne´ held up a hand to quieten them, ‘Then the only practical solution is peace.’ There was a roar of protest, but Ne´ noticed there were now fewer objections, ‘Let us discuss what it would cost us to have peace with the Ortea. Grand Chancellor Serrivelli, you seem to have a cooler head than most. Have you assessed what it would cost us to end this war and have our people returned to us?’

‘Little more than a few small changes in the law.’

Ne´ shook his head, ‘I don’t understand, Grand Chancellor.’

‘We cannot as a body effect the release of our people. As we already know, the Ortea use them as livestock. Without them, the Ortea would starve. There is only one race capable of providing livestock to replace our people, and that is the Humans. We would need to change the law to allow free travel of livestock across our territories. At the moment, we only allow processed meats for the Humans. They cannot keep, maintain, transport or slaughter live animals in our part of the galaxy.’

Ne´ agreed, ‘That would have to change. We would, of course, have to pay the Humans for that livestock.’

‘We could pay for it in the form of concessions Grand Commander.’

‘How so?’

‘If the Ortea agree, and I am sure they will, the Humans could maintain livestock and crop resources on the Ortea home world. It could, and would, save them a lot of time and expense if they could resource supplies locally. We could also accelerate the Human’s acceptance into the Federation by maybe two years. It wouldn’t be the first time in our history that a race who has provided great benefit to all has had their acceptance moved forward in this way.’

The assembled members went quiet as Ne´ paced back and forth, thinking it over. When he began to speak again, it was as though he was talking to himself.

‘On one hand we can fight to recover those that we thought were lost. It would cost us all trillions in the end, and that is only if we won. The Ortea have more than a single planet to draw resources from. Those other resources would always be a constant danger, not only to those fighting on their home world. With so many resources concentrated in one place it would quite possibly give them free range to go or do whatever they pleased. We would have to depend wholly on our home fleets to defend our home planets and territories.

‘If we go for peace, and if the Humans provide the resources necessary to effect that peace, then it would cost us very little. I would insist that we do advance their acceptance into the Federation and also compensate them to some extent financially. It would not be decent to have the Humans carry the burden alone. Even then, it is by far the cheapest solution. More to the point, we would soon recoup any costs if the routes through Ortea territories were opened for trade. We could maybe open corridors through them, reducing our foot print in that area and freeing up resources for the many other tasks we are responsible for.

‘If I had a third hand, then we could leave things as they are: pull out the Goodwill Ambassador and leave our people to their fate. A war, a ground war, would no doubt kill thousands of them. If the information we have is correct then close to half the population of the planet is made up from our own races.’

He stopped pacing and turned towards the view screens, ‘Those are our choices, we need to deliberate on them now. Ambassador Gordon is waiting for a reply. If we give permission to conduct peace talks he will then need to liaise with his own President, as would we. Do you have anything to add Grand Chancellor Serrivelli?’

‘I would advocate peace. It is by far the cheapest option to all of us, and in more than one way, the most profitable. The only objection to this whole proposal is one of morality. Our laws on meat products have existed for centuries, in my opinion to prevent the expansion of meat eating races. I think it is maybe time for us to grow beyond our collective fears. We have already bent the rules a little to allow the Humans to gain access to the Federation. Maybe it is time for a complete overhaul of those laws. That debate, of course, is for another day.’

Ne´ held up a hand, ‘Before we deliberate further, I would like an idea of what that debate would entail, Grand Chancellor.’

‘I would argue that the law should change to the outlawing of the transportation of any sentient being for food resources, or for any form of experimentation.’

Ne´ smiled, ‘That would mean that no race would be able to capture or experiment on Humans too, wouldn’t it?’

‘Of course it would. Don’t you think that is a necessary step Grand Commander?’

‘I think that is a debate for another day, but thank you for your thoughts and the clearness of your thinking Grand Chancellor Serrivelli. You are a worthy member of this council.’

Every member of the council showed their appreciation in their own way. A few even clapped.

The deliberations didn’t last much longer.

Chapter 51

‘Ambassador Gordon.’

‘Grand Commander,’ Steven bowed slightly from the waist, ‘Or do I call you Emperor?’

Ne´ smiled, not that Steven was aware of it.

‘Grand Commander will do fine Ambassador. We have just finished an emergency meeting under order 333666 of Federation Law. You may begin peace talks with the Ortea.’

Steven sighed with relief and the Emperor shook his head. Someone so easy to read should not be a diplomat, let alone an Ambassador.

‘That is good news Sir.’

‘We suggest some form of trade to have our people released. Unfortunately we have nothing to offer them Ambassador. We are hoping that Humanity will step into the breach here.’

‘I have already been in touch with my President Sir. On the other side of the great barrier we have a station that holds live animals. Unfortunately we cannot transport them to this world as the law stands.’

‘As we speak, a committee has gathered to change the laws of transportation. It will allow the ferrying of non-sentient live animals for domestic livestock. We will ratify it today if you wish and swear it into law at your convenience.’

Steven’s head dipped, ‘Every day, hundreds of young ones are slaughtered on this planet. I have at this moment a fast freighter capable of atmospheric landings heading to the station to load every animal we have. Another on its way to the station will be rerouted to here. They have just enough feed to reach the Ortea home world. Our President is ordering the accumulation of animals that would be more suited to the Ortea home world. Admiral Baxter is, at this moment, ordering his ships onto emergency rations, and transferring all fresh and frozen meat onto transports to take here. The faster we can do this, the more young we will save.’

‘That is touching Ambassador. On behalf of all of us, we thank you for your endeavours and the speed in which you have reacted to the situation. We will reimburse Humanity for the livestock and transportation.’

‘That would be welcome Sir, thank you.’

‘I am also gathering together the Federation’s top negotiators. We can supply grass seed for grazing if required.’

‘There is plenty grass and water here in the more temperate zones Sir. That won’t be needed for now.’

‘That is good to know.’

‘Our major problem is the heat. The domestic animals that we have available right now are not suited to this hot climate, but the Ortea can build shelters for them.’

‘That’s good to hear. We are also going to suggest that you try to secure good arable land for growing crops. That way your people can resupply from the Ortea home world.’

‘That would certainly shorten our supply lines quite considerably Sir. When will the negotiators arrive?’

‘The problem will be finding staff with the courage to land on the Ortea home world. Could I suggest an off-world venue, on board a ship of some sort?’

‘I doubt very much if the Ortea would go for that. They are paranoid about the Federation. They would see that as a trick to get their leadership aboard one of your ships, so you could kill them.’

‘Then maybe some form of conference call?’

‘We have already discussed that, they told me that in the past you have used weapons against them that can home in on a beacon.’

‘So we have… do they have any suggestions?’

‘They want a delegation of Humans. I explained that we aren’t in a position where we can supply those delegates yet.’

‘That is true.’

‘My only suggestion is that they come in one of our freighters, with a Human guard.’

‘I believe you are the only person with Federation accredited guards, and you don’t have enough for a full delegation.’

‘How about Federation guards on a battle cruiser? We could invite the Ortea on board with a security detail. The delegation could then conference call the planet from whatever the Ortea decree a safe distance. They could also surround it with as many damn ships as they want.’

Ne´ thought it over, ‘It would have to be a Human ship. At the sight of Ortea ships, any normal Commander would simply start firing. I doubt if they could help themselves. I could replace the engineers and navigators in the Human battle group, send that.’

‘I don’t think they would be amused at the sight of a whole battle group turning up.’

‘It is only a small battle group Ambassador, I doubt the Ortea would be phased by it. Ask them. I won’t send a battleship without its escort.’

‘I can ask.’

‘Have you visited one of their cities Ambassador?’

‘No Sir. They know that our ships can track us, and are frightened that, if they let us below ground, we will map out their underground system.’

‘They are very cautious.’

‘Paranoid.’

‘After two thousand years of war, wouldn’t you be Ambassador?’

‘You have a good point Sir. We Humans have never been in conflict with the Ortea. As such, we have no instinctive dislike or natural distrust of them.’

‘Or they you, which makes you the ideal mediators. Would you be prepared to stand by the Ortea throughout the talks Ambassador? Help reassure them that we are genuine?’

‘I can do that Sir.’

‘Then that is what we will do. I will make arrangements. Stand by for further orders.’

‘Yes Sir.’

Chapter 52

Charlie stood in the middle of the street. A light but hot breeze washed against his face. He closed his eyes for a moment and turned down the sensitivity of his skin, then monitored his cooling system. It was coping with the conditions.

Small groups of Ortea walked around with what looked like metal detectors. A bright burst of yellow dye from a spray can marked the spot. Here and there bones stuck up out of the sand; in these places, there was no need for detectors.

Morval made his way up the street, his tongue hanging out.

‘It’s damn hot here Charlie.’

‘It is a bit.’

‘You don’t seem too bothered. The other Humans have sweat pouring down their faces.’

Charlie glanced round. There was a platoon of soldiers with shovels and body bags digging up the two thousand year old corpses and placing them into body bags.

‘I’m not doing anything strenuous Morval.’

Morval shuddered, ‘This place is just so dead.’

‘Will you know who they are?’

Morval shook his head, copying the Human mannerism.

‘For the most part no. The bodies have been mummified, some will have IDs.’

‘I’m surprised the buildings are still standing.’

‘They are built the same way as those underground. Pure rock. It will have to erode naturally. The roofs have all fallen in though.’

‘How are your people taking this?’

Morval shook his head, ‘We are a people used to death. We save our grief for those closest to us. Still, I feel a great sadness sweeping through me. It has taken us two thousand years to do this.’

‘That is sad.’

‘It was just too dangerous, but if we want to reoccupy the surface, it has to be done. This planet has been sanitised so many times there aren’t even any microbes alive up here. It’s why all of these bodies are mummified. No scavengers, no insects, nothing. A Federation fleet would jump in, drop a load of biological and chemical weapons, and in the time it takes you to blink, jump out again. Every now and then they would try new weapons to see if they could reach us underground.’

‘Did they?’

‘Twice, I think, they managed to get down far enough to wipe out a city. It is what made us go deeper and deeper. How are the negotiations going? It’s been a couple of months now.’

‘No too sure. I just guard the damn doors. From what little I can gather, quite well.’

‘Our leaders are still paranoid.’

‘So are you.’

Morval gave Charlie what he had come to accept as a grin.

‘That’s true. I only feel comfortable around you Humans. I think most of us do, even the Dents.’

‘The Dents probably more so than the members of the Federation.’

‘What were those animals that arrived last night?’

‘Longhorn cattle. They like the heat.’

‘I hear the first crops are through the ground.’

‘Aye, and growing faster than expected. It must be the long hours of sunlight. You will soon be making your own bread.’

Morval looked thoughtful, ‘Is this really going to happen Charlie?’

‘I think so Morval, providing everyone keeps a cool head. You already released a thousand captives.’

‘Some are worried that once they are all gone the war will start again.’

Charlie shook his head, ‘I can’t see it. Right now the Federation has to pay for the food that our people consume. As you can imagine, the transportation costs alone are pretty damn high, even if they do get a special price on it. They will save a bloody fortune if they can get it from here. From what I can see, they want us to operate from your planet.

‘Your people suck up the Federation’s resources like a sponge with the constant fighting and battles. If there is one thing bureaucrats like, it’s saving money.’

‘We can’t cost them that much.’

‘How many of their ships have you captured in the past couple of years?’

‘I'm not sure Charlie, a few I suppose, mostly freighters skimming the edge of our territory.’

‘How much does it cost for a freighter Morval? The cargo, the replacement cargo, the replacement ship, the replacement crew, how long does it take to train that crew, how much does it cost?’

‘I don’t know, but I think I’m beginning to see where you are coming from. My third cousin told me that one of the Federation battle groups has disappeared. That has them worried.’

‘Probably cutting back already.’

‘Normally, when that happens, they reappear a few weeks later and bomb the surface with something new.’

‘For God’s sake Morval, do you really think we would be walking about here if we thought the Federation was going to attack? Would we be throwing resources at you in the way we are?’

‘Can you blame us Charlie?’

‘I don’t give a shit Morval. As far as I can see, the Federation are grasping this opportunity with both hands. This is the first real opportunity they have had to resolve this conflict in two thousand years. Your people need to do the same.’

‘It’s easy for you to say Charlie.’

‘Change the subject.’

Morval wasn’t amused, ‘I want to talk about it Charlie.’

‘I don’t. We’ve been round and round and round this so many times.’

‘You mean you are bored of the subject.’

‘Completely. Why are you clearing this place up? It’s right on the edge of the deserts.’

‘Because it was next on the list.’

‘Aye okay, good answer. So you don’t know.’

‘Nope.’

‘Are they going to turn the power and water back on?’

‘No idea.’

Charlie was becoming exasperated. He spotted something sticking up out of the sand and pulled it out. It was a fair sized stick. He waved it in front of Morval’s nose a few times then threw it.

Morval followed the stick with his eyes. When it hit the ground, he turned back to Charlie.

‘What are you doing Charlie?’

‘Oh nothing, just trying something out.’

‘What?’

‘Nothing important.’

A gale of laughter washed over them from a section of Humans who had caught what had happened. At least two of them were lying on the ground holding their sides.

‘What are they laughing at Charlie?’

‘No idea. Shall we move on?’

Morval’s head kept turning between the laughing Humans and where the stick had landed, wondering what the significance was. Every time his head turned towards the stick, the laughter increased.

‘I'm missing something here, aren’t I?’

‘Don’t worry about it Morval, it’s just a Human thing,’ Charlie reassured.

Chapter 53

Emperor Ne´ Langus watched the war games progress. He normally found them boring. This time, however, he had decided to pitch the Human command element against his own. Usually each side would vie for a good position and then like-sized ships would swap broadside for broadside while their fighters jumped in and out trying to create an advantage.

The Humans had kept a part of their fleet in reserve. This gave his staff the impression that they had an advantage of numbers. When the remainder of the Human fleet arrived behind their forces and began blasting a way through, it led his staff into a panic. In the end, they were forced to scatter, making them easy prey for the Humans.

Ne´ brought the games to an end and held a debriefing. His new Human contingent were bewildered at the accusations thrown at them. Ne´ almost had to shout to bring the meeting to order.

‘Be quiet all of you!’ When they were silent, Ne´ turned his attention to the Human contingent.

‘Admiral Bloum.’

The German snapped to attention, ‘Yes, Grand Commander.’

‘I asked you to demonstrate some of the tactics that your people used against the Albany. Is this them?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Do you have a name for this tactic?’

‘It is a hammer and anvil tactic. The main larger force is the anvil, while the hammer blow comes from behind. They crush the enemy’s fleet between them.’

‘Did you program your ships to mimic the tactics you used in those battles?’

‘Yes Sir. Every gun in the battle group is targeted onto one ship.’

‘Yes, but you can only use your forward facing weapons?’

‘It is still enough firepower to overwhelm the shields of the largest battle cruisers. From that point you use your forward firing weapons on the largest ships, and as you push into the enemy formation, your broadside weapons can target the smaller ships. Master fire-controllers coordinate for maximum effect. One broadside, one kill.’

‘Yes, and in the meantime your enemy are trying to manoeuvre to pick a fight with a ship of equal size. I will presume they are picked off as they approach.’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘So simple, but so deadly. What do you think of our tactics Admiral?’

‘Antiquated.’

‘Coming from a race that has only recently reached the stars, that is quite a bold statement.’

‘May I speak openly Sir, without causing offence?’

‘Feel free Admiral.’

‘We may not have fought many battles in space, but we have fought naval battles for thousands of years. At times in our history these battles took the same form as the tactics you use, where it was deemed honourable to fight toe-to-toe with a ship of the same size. They would pound each other to matchwood, then one side would board the other.

‘These tactics were considered rules of warfare by some. But there were times when one naval force was so heavily outnumbered that, in order to win, they had to invent new tactics. Those that won went down in history. We study their tactics and learn the lessons that they taught. The only difference between our seas and space is the multiple different directions an enemy can attack from. On Earth, it was 360° degrees in a circle, here that circle has expanded to a sphere. However, once the fleets have engaged properly, there is little difference between our battles at home and here. Large fleet tactics apply.’

‘Where can I get copies of these tactics?’

Admiral Bloum hesitated before answering, and his eyes became guarded, ‘I am afraid unlimited access to our navel records is not available at the moment.’

‘I see. You mean Admiral Baxter has deemed it unwise to share them? Just in case your people do not reach Federation status.’

‘That is exactly the situation Sir.’

Ne´ thought it over, ‘Maybe I should try a more direct approach with Admiral Baxter over this matter.’

‘I imagine he would be a little more forthcoming Sir, if you approached him directly.’

‘What are your personal thoughts on him?’

‘He has more than proved himself to his senior and junior ranks Sir.’

Ne´ detected an unfamiliar tone in the Admiral’s voice, ‘Was he not handpicked for the job?’

‘He was Sir.’

‘Are you not more senior than him?’

‘I was Sir.’

‘Were you not happy that he was placed above you?’

‘There were many more senior than either him or myself.’

‘Would you have conducted the battles with the Albany differently?’

‘I would have done, and more than likely lost.’

‘That is quite an admission Admiral. Are you not embarrassed by that revelation?’

‘A little maybe.’

‘Admiral Baxter strikes me as a person who would have been aware of the ideas and feelings of those that surround him.’

‘I made him aware of my ideas Sir.’

‘Yet he kept you around.’

‘He liked my honesty.’

‘So you told him you thought he was wrong.’

‘Yes Sir, and apologised when I was proved wrong.’

‘I am wondering if I have been sent a second rate officer, Admiral.’

‘I think today should prove that I am not only a first rate officer, but that I am prepared to listen and learn from those who are better than me, whether they are above me or below me in rank.’

Ne´ cast a baleful eye over his own staff, ‘I wish I had more officers like you Admiral. Thank you for today, it has proved very instructive.’

The meeting went on for another two hours. Ne´ was displeased with many of his staff. They hadn’t liked being beaten and were not only distant, but unpleasant to the Human contingent. There were a few, like himself, that were excited about the prospect of learning an entirely different form of warfare. Ne´ took notes as he went. As yet, he couldn’t accept any Humans into his immediate staff. He was, however, already taking notes as to those he wanted.

Ne´ decided to have lunch with his officers. It was another revelation as to how the Humans were being treated. The Human contingent quickly sat around a separate table, despite their being plenty room at the main one. There were a few mumbles, and a little discontent when the Emperor invited the Humans to join them.

‘Don’t you find the smell of the Human’s food offensive Sire?’ asked one of his senior staff.

‘No, in fact I find it quite intriguing. What is it you and your people are having Admiral?’

‘Out of respect for our fellow officers, we do not eat meat in the mess. We have a private dining hall for that. In the mess, we only eat vegetable soup, with big chunks of bread.’

‘So instead of grass it is a vegetable soup. With no meat products in it at all?’

‘No Sir, even the stock base of the soup is vegetable.’

Ne´ turned to the Human waiter and asked for a bowl.

‘I actually tried some of this before at a banquet. I really enjoyed many of the vegetables.’

A small bowl compared to the one he had pushed away was placed in front of him. From a pouch, Ne´ produced an ornate tester. A drop of the soup was all he needed to tell him that it was harmless. He was soon spooning it in. The bowl barely lasted a minute.

‘That was delicious. Bring me a proper bowl.’

The waiter returned with a large bowl that the grass soup was normally served in.

‘That’s the last of it Sir. Would you like some bread? We have some malted bread that might be suitable for your digestive system.’

‘I could test it.’

The bread was produced and Ne´ was soon dipping like an expert. His staff was mortified. When a bowl of fresh hay was produced after the soup, Ne´ waved it away.

‘Aren’t you hungry Sire?’ His senior staff officer asked.

‘No, that was very filling. Human food is very nutritious. If your race can eat vegetables, I would advise you all to try it.’ Ne´ moved slightly to let the waiter remove his plate.

‘Was this soup freshly prepared today?’ He asked the waiter.

‘It was prepared today Sir, but the soup comes in a powder form and the vegetables are desiccated.’

‘I see. Does it take a lot to reconstitute the soup?’

‘Not really Sir.’

‘That is very interesting,’ he waved the waiter away and directed his next remark towards the Humans at the table, ‘Do all of you find the soup tasty?’

There were a few mumbles, but most shook their heads. One of them was Admiral Bloum.

‘You don’t like it Admiral?’

‘I think it is horrible Sir, it’s freeze dried and vacuum packed to save space and weight. I'm not sure which one is the worst.’

‘I'm sorry!’

‘Today we had vegetable, there are also other flavours. Cream of tomato and cream of mushroom. We have become very tired of it, but what can we do so far from home?’ He added a little shrug, ‘The bread at least is fresh.’

‘Cream, what is that?’

‘Milk from bovines Sir.’

‘Milk… ah, as in a mother’s milk.’

There were a few clucks of disgust, but they were ignored.

‘Not Human mothers, from bovines, cattle. Some use the milk from other species, it really depends what part of Earth you come from.’

‘From herbivores?’

‘That’s right Sir. Once one has been milked, it is allowed to settle. The cream, the thickest and most nutritious part of the milk floats to the surface where it is skimmed. It can also be desiccated and added as a powder. We also make cheese from it, and other dairy products.’

‘Cheese, I have tasted that. It is a delicacy. There are many different types.’

‘That is correct Sir.’

‘How interesting. I would like to have samples of these soups sent to the Federation labs.’

‘Let me know where to send it Sir. We would be more than happy to give it away.’

Ne´ thought that was hilarious, ‘I will Admiral.’

With the meal over, they began to talk. It wasn’t long before the discussion came round to the peace negotiations. Ne´ was asked about the progress of the talks. He had to think long and hard about it.

‘On some levels the talks are going well. We are still talking. There has been no hostile action taken by the Ortea during the talks. I have even removed some of our forces from the area, to see if that would help things along, but it seems to have had more of a detrimental impact. I’m not sure what is going to happen next, but I fear the peace talks will eventually fail.

‘I get reports from the Goodwill Ambassadors. The female is exceptionally good at reading the mood of these meetings. She also fears the talks will fail. To this date we still haven’t been able to meet face-to-face. There is a steady flow of visitors to the Burning Wind from the planet below; Dent and Ortea. She said that she has noticed at least two of their Grand Commanders come aboard in disguise as engineers.’

‘Did she not have them arrested?’ Snapped one of his men.

‘How would that have helped?’ Ne´ asked him.

‘Well, I’m not sure Sire.’

Ne´ waved a long grass fork at him, ‘This is the problem. This is why the Ortea don’t trust us. We have an opportunity to end a two thousand year war here, yet people like you still advocate violence. They won’t meet us face-to-face and our people don’t have the courage to go down to the planet surface. So far the only ones that have actually approached our negotiators is a delegation of Dents. They were requesting that their Federation status be recognised, and that they be repatriated to their former planet.’

‘We should do that Sire, release them from servitude.’

‘Are you a complete idiot? Are you really one of my staff?’ He leaned forward threateningly, ‘Are you forgetting that their former planet is now my home world? They have also been officially extinct for almost two thousand years. If we give them permission to leave, then the Ortea will be left with no engineers. Do you think they will let them all go peacefully? Who will run their power plants and their ships?

‘There is a reason a species is hunted to extinction once they no longer have a home planet. It is so they can’t return at a later date and reclaim their lost world. It isn’t written down in any rule book, but I can assure you it is understood. You see there are legal methods of reclaiming a home world, even a planet that you have terraformed yourself. Not so much one you have taken over by wiping out lower life forms. It is one of the reasons that home worlds are now protected by the Federation. To prevent what happened to the Dents happening to the rest of us. That is why it is so attractive to become a member of the Federation. Just ask the Humans sitting over there.’

‘It’s the only reason we’re putting up with all of your bullshit,’ growled the battle-scarred old Marine Commander.

‘That’s enough,’ snapped Bloum.

The answer amused the Emperor, ‘No Admiral, it is refreshing to hear an honest answer for once. You are the Human Marine Commander, aren’t you?’

‘Major General Alvin Coltswood, Sir, formerly of the United States Marine Corps.’

‘What is your take on the situation we find ourselves in with the Dents and the Ortea?’

‘Sounds like a complete cluster fuck to me Sir.’

Ne´ laughed so hard he almost fell off his chair. His staff sat mortified. ‘I don’t think I have ever heard anything described so well. Thank you for that,’ Ne´ managed when he had recovered enough, ‘Still, it leaves us no farther forward. I truly don’t know what we are going to do from here.’

Chapter 54

There was a stir within the Federation negotiation team on board the Burning Wind. After many weeks of fruitless negotiations that seemed to be getting nowhere, the Ortea had finally decided to send their people up to the Burning Wind to face the delegates from the Federation. Negotiations had come to a standstill days before, and nothing had been heard from the planet below. Now the team feared some form of retribution or an attack.

Captain Douglas McKinnon stood at the airlock waiting for the Ortea delegation. He was completely fed up with the whole process. Despite the freedom of movement between the Burning Wind and the planet’s surface, the Federation negotiators hadn’t been able to move forward at all.

Douglas was sick too of the continual whining of the delegation on board. Now they were almost pissing themselves with fear at the imminent prospect of meeting the Ortea face-to-face. He stood at the head of the Ambassadors’ honour guard. Steven and Komoru stood beside him.

He glanced down at Steven, ‘I could have used Marines. No need for your fellows to be here.’

Steven shook his head but took a few seconds to answer.

‘Federation protocol demands an honour guard made up of Federation accredited guardsmen. These are the only ones we possess. We sent an information pack to the Ortea last night at their request. They will know the proper protocol. Not to follow it could be considered an insult.’

‘Protocol, bullshit, whining delegates… I’m fed up of all this.’

‘Aren’t you enjoying the planet?’

‘The planet is fine, the people are fine. My crew are really enjoying themselves. It’s good to have your feet on solid ground. We are building up a good relationship with these people, it’s just the damn Federation idiots that are making an arse of everything. Did your lads enjoy their couple of days off?’

‘It was a nice change of pace.’

Douglas saw the lights change on the airlock, ‘Here they come,’ he said quietly.

As the airlock door slid back the honour guard presented arms. Two Ortea guards stepped out of the airlock first. They took up post either side of the door. The delegates stepped out next. Douglas wasn’t sure what to do or say.

Steven steeped forward and bowed slightly, ‘I am Steven Gordon, Earth’s Goodwill Ambassador.’

The Dent smiled, ‘I am Ambassador Boe, representative of the Ortea home world and their surrounding solar systems. It is nice to meet you Ambassador. Is this lovely young lady your mate, Komoru Kiazue?’

‘Yes it is.’

Komoru bowed low and smiled up at the delegation’s leader, ‘It is a pleasure to meet you Ambassador. An unexpected pleasure.’

‘Of course, I must come as a bit of a surprise. I have been elected as the diplomatic leader of this mission. Everything has changed in the past few days. We have been given citizenship by the Ortea. They felt the distrust between themselves and the Federation was too big a hurdle to overcome. So they gave us citizenship, and asked us to vote on a shadow leadership. That leadership was then tasked with making this peace work. The leadership appointed myself and my team to carry on the negotiations. I am sure I will have to explain all of this at the meeting.’

‘Of course,’ Komoru bowed, ‘This way please.’

By the time they reached the conference room the Federation delegates were almost beside themselves with terror. When they saw the Dent the look of surprise on their faces was evident, even to the Humans. They went inside and the door closed behind them. Charlie and Eddie took post on the door.

It was almost a full minute before Eddie made the comment that was on both of their minds.

‘Was it just me, or was there the distinct smell of shit coming from that room?’

‘Thought we were going to be washed away man.’

It was quite a while before the smirks faded from their faces.

Chapter 55

Emperor Ne´ Langus wasn’t quite sure what to make of the situation first. He waited until the meeting was in recession then talked to his team leader onboard the Burning Wind. He then called his staff together.

‘It would seem that the Ortea have changed tack. They have freed the Dent from servitude. Not only that, they are now using the Dent in a diplomatic role. First thoughts everyone.’

‘It must be some form of trick by the Ortea Sire.’

Ne´ turned his whole body towards the individual. ‘You were the one who made stupid remarks the last time we had lunch together. I want you to remove yourself from this room. Pack your bags and go seek reassignment from Colum Peck, tell him I sent you,’ the luckless officer opened his mouth to protest. ‘Go now, this instant!’ Ne´ growled at him. The officer shot out the door as fast as he could walk.

Ne´ took a deep breath, ‘Is that the last of the idiots?’ He looked them all over, then fixed his gaze upon his chief of staff, ‘Thoughts?’

‘They must be really serious about this peace Sire.’

‘Thank you. That was exactly what I was thinking. I have already spoken to our team leader. They are very impressed with the Dents. I think our chances of a negotiated peace are now very good. What I want is ideas on how to sweeten the deal for the Ortea. I also want a direct line to the Ortea home world, so I can talk to their Grand Commander in person.’

There weren’t many suitable suggestions from his staff, but Ne´ was coming up with ideas of his own. A nucleus of a grand idea was beginning to take seed. He was also surprised at how quickly he was connected to the Ortea Grand Commander. He took the call in his private quarters. The two gauged each other silently for almost a full minute.

Tern Do was the first to speak, ‘I finally get to see the face of my greatest enemy.’

‘You are but one face amongst many of my enemies.’

‘Emperor Ne´ Langus.’

‘Grand Commander of the Ortea, Tern Do.’

‘I did wonder if you would be smart enough to get the message.’

‘I got it. That was an excellent move.’

‘I presume this is how we will really do business.’

‘I hope so. You’re not going to try and tell me that you have handed all political power over to the Dents are you?’

‘Of course not.’

‘That’s what I thought. We can converse like this at regular intervals, and relay what we want and need to our respective teams.’

‘I agree.’

‘Good. Tell me why you have reacted badly to having a battle group removed from the region of your home planet?’

‘The removal of a battle group, or a number of them, is normally a precursor to a bombardment of the planet with biological or chemical weapons.’

‘Ah!’ Ne´ leaned back, ‘I had not thought of that. Of course you would see it that way.’

‘You should have announced it officially first. It would have made my people less nervous.’

‘What about yourself?’

‘The other two Grand Commanders and I weren’t concerned. We realise you want this peace to work, as do we. Our biggest problem is our subordinates.’

‘I already had one removed today. I think it brought the others more into line.’

‘I don’t have that luxury. I need to work with what I have. Good Commanders are hard to come by, and the best were always the most suspicious. Still, they are behaving themselves at the moment.’

‘I am surprised at that.’

‘It is the Humans. Having other meat eaters vying for a position in the Federation has settled their nerves a little, as has seeing domestic livestock pour out their transporters, not to mention crops pushing through the surface of our planet for the first time in thousands of years. It has given my people hope.’

‘I hear they have been giving you tours of the Burning Wind.’

‘I was spotted!’

‘Yes you were, by one of the Human Ambassadors.’

‘The female. I thought she saw me. That ship is of Modloch design, but it is different.’

‘The Humans refitted the Burning Wind. Changed it to top spec.’

‘How could such a backward race do that?’

‘Builder technology.’

‘The Ambassadors?’

‘Yes, first generation ships, chased through the great barrier by your people I believe. They found refuge and new crews on the planet Earth.’

‘That couldn’t have happened recently.’

Ne´ shook his head, ‘I don’t know the full story.’

‘We have been trying to catch Builder ships for centuries.’

‘It would have done you no good, even if you had.’

‘We had no intention of eating them, just enslaving them.’

‘That would make more sense. How long did it take you to realise that the Humans were backwards?’

‘Not long. The non-Federation Modloch engineers on board that ship confirmed it. The problem is, we somewhat find ourselves in the same boat as the Humans.’

‘You mean your dependence on the Dents?’

‘Exactly that. We do have our own engineers, but nowhere near enough to maintain our ships or our cities.’

‘You require me to tie the Dents to your planet.’

‘Is there anywhere else for them to go anyway?’

‘If there had been, you wouldn’t have given them citizenship in the first place.’

‘Of course not. They still have hopes however.’

‘They will need to be crushed.’

Tern Do smiled for the first time, ‘We seem to be of a similar mind.’

‘The thought makes me shudder.’

‘I am sure it does. I am sure that we would both far rather see one another’s races wiped out. Unfortunately, for us at least, that is unrealistic.’

‘When I took over the Federation, I imagined that I would be able to achieve what no other had done in two thousand years: wipe you all out. I was wrong.’

‘You have never come close. The only realistic solution to both our problems has been either antihalation or peace. Until now, peace seemed the more unrealistic solution.’

‘Until now, you are correct. Where should we proceed from here?’

‘One step at a time Emperor, slowly and with as much dignity as each side can muster.’

‘I agree Grand Commander; with the Humans as a wedge to keep both sides apart. I am planning on moving more of my forces out of your solar systems.’

‘Replace them with Human ships first.’

‘If only they were battle ready…’

‘Is it the engineering?’

‘And the navigation, although they do have one or two accredited navigators now, but it is proving to be a long process.’

‘I know our Dents are going to try to have their extinction status revoked. They were once a part of the Federation, although it was in its infancy then. If your Federation can work something out, maybe we can lend you a few Dent engineers for the Humans. They get on well enough. That would reassure my people somewhat, especially if the ships in our sectors were manned by Dents and Humans.’

‘To have their extinction status revoked at this early stage could be detrimental to their existence.’

‘You mean if they try and claim refugee status on their old home world?’

‘I will not lie, I would have them wiped out.’

‘Which brings you back to tying them to us.’

‘Exactly, but what if we harvest your best engineers away to serve with the Humans?’

‘I have been doing a little research. The Humans only have one planet. Their forces wouldn’t be big enough to deplete us of good engineers, even after they reach Federation status.’

‘If the Dents reached Federation status again they would have to supply their own ships, and jointly, you have three solar systems.’

‘We don’t have the ships to give them. Even if we did, they don’t come close to Federation specs. We did try to buy a few from the Humans, but they are wary of stepping on Federation toes.’

‘What did you offer them?’

‘Vast tracks of land on the surface to grow crops.’

‘That would solve so many problems.’

‘I can see a solution to our problems Emperor, can you?’

‘Yes I can, but there is simply no chance the other Federation members would accept that. I wouldn’t accept that.’

‘Neither would my people.’

‘You certainly wouldn’t be accepted through the front door.’

‘I see you have already been thinking about this.’

‘As have you. You have your sights set on new ships.’

‘Modern top spec warships. My people are excellent navigators and fighters, the Dents are top class engineers, but they have very few people within the command structure. Tell me what you are thinking Emperor. Be honest.’

‘I rarely lay my cards on the table to anyone, especially to an enemy.’

‘We can keep this war going for at least another thousand years. By then, our numbers will probably have been reduced to a point where the Dent will outnumber us vastly. They will finally gather the courage to stage a revolution. I am quite sure at that stage my species will become extinct. It most certainly won’t be at the hands of the Federation.’

‘Why have they never done it yet?’

‘The Dents are not the most courageous of races, and it isn’t like we eat them anymore, aside from the occasional criminal. They are treated well; as are most of those we capture. Those that are useful anyway.’

‘Yes, and those that aren’t, you force to breed.’

‘We don’t force them to breed.’

‘You know many races can’t prevent themselves. Tell me Grand Commander, which children, of which race do you find the tastiest?’ Ne´ was feeling his temper rise.

Tern Do seemed genuinely surprised by the question.

‘I have never partaken Emperor.’

‘What!’

‘Like all races we have a nobility, I doubt it is as grand as those of your race, though it does exist. Those of noble birth rarely partake of the flesh of sentient beings. Those meats are for the poor, the lowest levels in our society.’

‘I don’t believe you, how can you survive?’

‘You really don’t know?’

‘No.’

‘Seafood, our planet has vast underground oceans. As our planet heated up, the oceans sank below the surface, and our people followed. That was before our people began recording history. What’s the matter Emperor? You look shocked. You do know that we feed our captives seaweed harvested from those oceans? Aren’t those Goodwill Ambassadors of yours doing their job properly? I know they asked the questions.’

‘I did not read the sections on your cultural background.’

‘Then the fault lies with you. How did you think we fed them?’

‘I presumed you came to the surface and harvested grass, or had large arboretums underground which fed them.’

‘Maybe you should read those reports properly before we discuss things further.’

‘No, let us carry on for the moment, I will read them later. I was thinking of mixing up the Dent and the Humans. The Humans have the resources to supply the Dents with the ships they need.’

‘So you will have a force made up from three different solar systems. Would that not stretch the Humans a little?’

‘I doubt it.’

‘You would still lack decent navigators though.’

‘They could be supplied.’

‘There is another option open to you.’

‘I am aware of that, I can’t see it being acceptable though.’

Tern Do thought it over for a few moments, ‘I read a little of the literature the Humans supplied me. You could take this a step further.’

‘How so?’

‘Your problem isn’t two sentient races here, it is three. There is no point in us asking for Federation status, but the Dents could. We could safeguard our planet as long as the Dents are bound to us. As we are bound to them, then why should we not also supply the same amount of ships? Could the Humans stretch their resources that far?’

‘You mean the price of the Dents coming back into the Federation would be double what they would be expected to supply as a single race?’

‘It would give you quite a sizeable force.’

‘It would give me my hammer.’

‘I'm sorry!’

‘It’s nothing, just a concept I was thinking about. I still couldn’t give any of your people command of a vessel.’

‘I wouldn’t give you any of my Commanders anyway. Even if we do achieve peace, there are still those with a grudge to bear that aren’t a part of the Federation.’

‘That is true, but what would we get in return?’

‘That’s easy: free access through our territories. It would also free up a lot of your resources. If my people were a part of the Federation, even as an auxiliary force, it would give even the strongest voices cause to pause.’

Ne´ tapped the desk in front of him, ‘An auxiliary force… you may have something there. Three races, one force. The Humans would have their navigators and engineers.’

‘We like what we have seen of the Humans. They have similar ideas to ours, I think our people could work together. They are helping us recover our dead from the places above ground that were once occupied by the surface dwellers.’

‘Haven’t you done it before now?’

‘Let us not dwell on things that stir our emotions up Emperor.’

‘Yes, let’s stick to what each of us will gain from this arrangement.’

‘It will give us the ability to bargain with the Humans for new ships. That will give them vast tracts of land on the surface where they can grow crops, and raise livestock to feed themselves.’

‘That would reduce our overall cost of feeding the Humans by a vast amount. Human ships with your own crews could patrol your areas of space, especially if we made it a Federation protected zone.’

‘That would in turn give us the peace of mind to allow trade corridors through our territories.’

‘That in turn would save every race that trades in the region a lot of time and money. I would allow your people to serve within the command structure of the ships they serve in, but not Captain the ships.’

‘I would agree to that. We could also provide foot soldiers. We have a vast amount of experience in space travel, and space combat, obviously in ship-to-ship engagements too.’

‘Yes, but only if we can come to peaceful terms Grand Commander, and then maintain that peace.’

‘Yes, and have the Dents bonded to our people permanently.’

‘That shouldn’t be too hard. It won’t be too long before they get the message that they aren’t welcome anywhere else.’

‘Don’t kill too many of them, just enough to scare them.’

‘I wouldn’t worry about that Grand Commander, I am an Emperor, I am good at that sort of thing.’

Chapter 56

Emperor Ne´ Langus dined alone. His personal servant placed a large bowl of thick off-white liquid down in front of him with a look of distaste on his face.

‘What is the matter with your face Blaar?’

‘Are you really going to eat that Human food Sire?’

‘It is cream of mushroom soup. I have had it tested, then retested. According to our people, this soup is five times more nutritious than anything we serve.’

‘That may well be Sire, however, it has mother’s milk in it.’

‘Not my mother’s, nor yours either.’

‘But should you be the one to test it Sire?’

‘If I can eat it, then no one else can make up an excuse not to.’

Blaar knew when to keep his mouth shut and fetched the warm rolls that had been supplied with the soup. Once he had placed them on the table, he took the Emperor’s napkin, and unfolded it so it covered the whole front of his uniform.

Once his servant was out of the way, Ne´ picked up his spoon. The first sip was tentative. The second emptied the spoon; he laid it beside his plate.

‘Blaar.’

‘Yes Sire.’

‘There is a Royal banquet in a few months’ time. I want you to speak to the Human chef, find out how much of this we will need to feed two hundred guests. Then contact the PD company of Earth and order twice that much.’

‘Are you sure Sire?’

‘This is exquisite.’

Ne´ picked up one of the warm rolls, tore it in half and began to dip.

A few hours later, he was at his desk when Jean Wilson turned up for her appointment. He had thought long and hard about this meeting. The memory of the Human male pulling the rebar out of the concrete table was still fresh in his memory and he shuddered. At his side was the report from the Modloch Emperor’s Chief Engineer. Darrick had forwarded him a copy; it had proved a thought provoking read. The copy had included a tactical assessment by both the Chief Engineer and the Human Captain.

He had decided that it was time he found out more about this Human. He ordered his secretary to show the woman in. The moment she saw him her face had changed colour. It normally meant they were angry. To his surprise she stopped short of the desk and bowed low.

‘Emperor, I am honoured that you have granted my request. I would simply and humbly like to apologise for my behaviour the last time we met.’

‘It was unsavoury to say the least Captain Wilson. I may not have helped matters either, with my poor choice of words. I am not used to dealing with females in this line of work.’

‘I was still rude Sir, and I humbly hope that you will accept my apology.’

Ne´ saw the rebar being twisted around the Human’s arm in his mind. The manner of her apology made it easy for him to accept it without losing face again, ‘In that case I will accept your apology Captain, but only if you offer to show me around your ship. I have talked to Colonel Man Dei. He tells me that you and your staff are a shining example of how a training ship should be run.’

‘That is very generous of him Sir.’

‘He is not someone who is easy to impress Captain.’

‘He is a hard task master Sir, and I would be delighted to show you around my ship at your convenience.’

‘I was wondering, Captain, if you could give me some information on a friend of yours.’

‘Who would that be Sir?’

‘Captain Murison.’

He saw the reaction on her face, it wasn’t good.

‘What kind of information Sir?’

‘I met the Captain briefly just before he went on a mission to the Ortea home world with the Modloch Empire’s Chief Engineer. They both submitted tactical reports on what they found there. Unfortunately I have no access to the Captain’s personnel records, therefore I am not quite sure how to take the report, or how to assess its accuracy. I have no clue as to the Captain’s abilities. An insight into the Captain would be of benefit to me.’

‘You mean to his reading of a tactical situation on the ground?’

‘Exactly that Captain Wilson.’

Her face relaxed a little, ‘We have both served in the same theatres of war throughout our service history, but in different roles. The Captain is an Infantry Officer who came up through the ranks. His situational awareness and tactical understanding would most likely be better than most.’

‘Then he has a lot of fighting experience?’

‘Yes Sir. He was also one of the first on the ground during the battle for the Albany city ship; he did not leave until the battle was over.’

‘So you believe he has good situational and tactical awareness?’

‘I have staked my life and the lives of my crew on it.’

That brought the Emperor’s attention sharply into focus. ‘How so Captain?’

‘Just before the Federation deadline, when we expected the Sir William Wallace to be boarded, I had a chat with the Captain. Myself and my crew wanted to fight off any attacker, regardless of race. It was Captain Murison who persuaded me not to. It was he who rightly determined that the real target of what we were going through wasn’t us but rather our political hierarchy. He was able to put the situation into a different perspective for me.

‘He told me that we had done our bit and had been cleared of any wrongdoing. He firmly believed that because of that, the continued aggression from the Federation was no longer targeted at us, but at the politicians. He had been told by the Modloch Emperor that Humanity would be tested at all levels, and was able to persuade me that to do anything other than what we had been ordered to would cause considerable hardship to our ruling body.’

‘You had been told to capitulate peacefully, that is correct?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Yet you and your crew were determined to fight?’

‘It is in our nature Sir. I had of course issued the orders to capitulate, but they weren’t sitting well in my mind. Also pressure from my officers to fight was leaning heavily on me. I was swithering.’

‘I will bear that in mind for the future. Captain Murison was correct, it may well have cost Humanity its place in the Federation.’

‘I realise that now. May I ask, how was the Captain when you saw him?’

‘He seemed in good health. He was just about to leave for the Ortea home world.’

‘With his friend the Chief?’

‘A strange friendship.’

‘They have been close friends since Charlie saved his life. The Chief had been inspecting the city ship for damage after the battle, on his own. A section of floor gave way beneath his feet and he fell quite a considerable distance before becoming wedged between a wall and a metal supporting beam. Charlie found him and climbed down to get him. He had to carry the Chief back up, and treated his injuries. They have been close friends since.’

‘It is the kind of thing that begets friendship.’

‘That two are always getting into trouble, especially with the Emperor.’

‘You mean Darrick?’

‘Sorry?’

‘The Modloch Emperor.’

‘Yes Sir. He seems to enjoy torturing his Chief Engineer. I think that is pretty sad considering the amount of his own money the Chief has poured in to rebuilding that city ship.’

‘I don’t understand, why would a commoner like an engineer pay for work on his Emperor’s property. How could he afford it?’

Jean took a deep breath, ‘Charlie and the Chief set up the PD music company of Earth. The Chief was given a small percentage of the profits as the sponsor. He is now extremely wealthy.’

‘Yet he still works.’

‘I think he just loves his job.’

‘I see. So Captain Murison must also be very wealthy?’

‘Charlie has never taken a penny. He did it for Humanity’s sake.’

‘That was quite noble of him.’

Jean smiled, ‘That’s Charlie. We were having difficulty setting up a bank account on this side of the great barrier. We couldn’t buy fuel or supplies.’

‘I remember wondering how Humanity was going to get out of that predicament. I thought the solution was very clever. Now everything comes through the PD company. I am continually surprised by just how much the Human race has to offer the galaxy.’

‘I think we were too.’

‘Are the two of them still part of the company?’

‘I think Charlie still has an executive title, I'm not quite sure what. I don’t think he has done anything for them in a long time.’

‘I wouldn’t say that. According to the Chief Engineer they loaded thousands of surplus building bricks on a Human freighter and sent it back to Earth.’

‘That must have been Charlie. I wonder what he is up to?’

‘I have no idea Captain.’

Jean sighed, ‘It’s a pity the PD company isn’t public, I would buy a few hundred shares.’

‘Why?’

‘Just about everything Charlie gets involved in turns to gold.’

‘Gold? Is that a Human expression that means it garners wealth?’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘I don’t exactly see it, they are only bricks.’

‘Bricks from an alien world. We Humans have never seen the like before.’

‘So they will be a novelty.’

‘Yes Sir.’

‘Thank you Captain, this has helped me put a face to this report.’

Dismissed, Jean returned to her ship, pleased with how the meeting had gone.

Chapter 57

It was almost a month before Emperor Ne´ Langus took Captain Wilson up on her offer of a tour around the ship. It had been a hectic month for the Emperor. News had leaked out about the abduction of the Human bee keepers by the Albany. The whole episode had come to a head with the disappearance of an entire Albany fleet, and the execution of the Emperor’s cousin, who had incited insurrection and tried to overthrow Darrick.

There were few in any doubt about who was responsible for the disappearance of the Albany fleet. As far as he knew, no one understood how they had achieved it. It frightened many.

Now, almost everything was in place. He was going to leave the following day. It was time to put the Dents in their place.

The whistles as he stepped onto the ship made him pause for a moment. He was accompanied by Man Dei and his personal servant.

The crew were lined up in their naval whites. It was quite a display. Jean saluted briefly.

‘Welcome aboard Grand Commander.’

‘A pleasure Captain, but this isn’t an official visit. There is no need for the ceremony.’

‘It is rare these days that my crew gets a chance to dress up properly Sir. I thought I would indulge them.’

Ne´ was impressed by the display. He had forgotten that this crew did not belong to the Federation. The difference in their uniforms pleased him. That wasn’t the only thing that impressed. The ship shone from top to bottom. The Modloch engineers were the only thing that spoiled the tour for him. They reminded him of the continued problems they were having with the Humans.

Jean took him up onto a gantry where they watched a squad of Marines go through their paces. Ne´ was immediately aware of the difference in tactics.

‘This isn’t the part of the ship that you can blow out is it Captain?’

Jean laughed, ‘No Sir it isn’t. This is quite a simple scenario that gives the instructors an idea of how a team are working together. It lets them see if the designated Commanders are doing their job properly.’

‘Impressive; I like this.’

‘Would you have lunch with us Sir? I hear you are partial to cream of mushroom soup.’

‘Is that what you have on the menu today?’

‘It is.’

‘Then I will stay for lunch Captain.’

‘In that case we have a few minutes. Would you like to see our live firing range? It is where we fire our chemical-based weapons. I will warn you, they are noisy.’

‘That’s okay Captain. My ears aren’t that sensitive.’

‘We do have protection that will fit anyway Sir.’

‘Lead on.’

Ne´ soon discovered the thrill of using chemical-based weapons. He was fascinated when Jean began to buckle on her pistol.

‘What is that Captain?’

‘This is my personal weapon Sir.’

‘I may not be aware of Earth customs Captain, but that doesn’t look like an ordinary issue weapon.’

‘It isn’t, it was a gift, and I take advantage of my status as Captain to use it and wear it as I wish.’

‘May I see it?’

She hesitated, ‘This is tooled leather, animal skin Sir. You may find it offensive.’

‘I have a friend who has a number of chairs made of leather. I think they are wonderful. I have already gotten over my revulsion Captain.’

Jean took the gun belt off and handed it over. Ne´ inspected it closely.

‘Was this pattern done by hand or by machine?’

‘By hand Sir.’

‘This must have cost a lot of money.’

‘I have no idea Sir, it was a gift.’

‘From a gentleman?’

‘Captain Murison Sir.’

‘Ah! The intrigue thickens,’ he thought for a moment. ‘I was told that you and your crew rescued the Captain. I do not know the details of the mission, but I believe that was where you met.’

‘That is correct Sir.’

‘Was this a thank you gift from the Captain?’

Jean smiled, ‘Yes Sir, it was.’

‘It is exquisite Captain, a wonderful gift. Still, it isn’t the kind of gift I would expect a male to give to a female.’

‘But one appropriate to a fellow serving officer Sir.’

Ne´ was very impressed by her answer, ‘Yes indeed Captain. Now show me how to use it.’

Jean took the pistol back and buckled it on. She then placed her ear defenders over her ears; others followed suit.

‘Range master, could you set up my speed round please?’

‘Yes Ma’am.’

Lines of metallic targets popped up in front of her. Jean loaded the pistol and laid out two magazines. The Emperor was treated to a rare display of marksmanship. The roar of the pistol and clang of the metal plates being struck sent a thrill through him. The magazine changes were fluid and fast, and when the last plate crashed down, he was left breathless with wonder.

Jean cleared her weapon. The Emperor clapped in a manner he knew the Humans were accustomed to.

‘That was very impressive Captain Wilson.’

‘Would you like to try Sir? I have to warn you that this hand gun is extremely powerful.’

‘I would love to try it Captain.’

‘Then please step forward Sir.’

She gave him a quick demonstration of how to load and make the weapon safe, and a little instruction on how to hold and aim it.

Ne´ took careful aim with the first shot. The pistol roared and the shock travelled up his arms. It left him breathless. The first target went down with a ring but his second went a little wild. He tried again and hit a target. He then tried to copy Jean. The shots rang out down the range. His magazine changes were a little clumsy, but not too bad. When the last shot rang out, the slide stayed back. He cleared the weapon as taught and laid it down. When he turned everyone clapped.

The Emperor laughed out loud, ‘This indeed is a sport for Emperors!’

He was conscious of the fact that he had only hit another half dozen targets, and was a little embarrassed to be outshot by a Human female.

‘You did extremely well Sir, well done.’

‘I think it must take a lot of practice. It does seem a little short for my hands though.’

‘My weapon is a shortened version, it is easier for women to use. The men normally have a longer and heavier version of the same weapon. It also takes years of training. I myself have won countless competitions.’

‘Have you beaten many Human males?’

‘I think I have beaten just about all of them Sir.’

‘Then I most certainly wouldn’t like to be a raider trying to storm your bridge Captain Wilson.’

Everyone appreciated his humour, and Jean led him through to the dining room.

While they had been touring the ship, Blaar had rushed back to grab the Emperor’s personal dining set. His bowl took most of a tureen of soup, but luckily enough, the chef still had the time to make more for the ship’s crew.

The conversation was relaxed as they sat down for lunch. Ne´ was only half-paying attention to the bowl that was laid in front of him. It was the first sip that stunned him. He put the spoon down.

‘What is this Captain?’

‘Cream of mushroom soup Sir.’

He took another sip, savouring the flavour, ‘This isn’t what I am used to.’

‘That will be because it is fresh Sir. The mushrooms are vacuum packed on Earth, but the cream is fresh.’

‘Fresh cream, how? I thought it was all desiccated.’

‘From the Ortea home world. They now have enough dairy products to service the whole fleet. They are also beginning to produce cheese and butter. We are beginning to receive vegetables and fresh flour for baking.’

‘There must be a lot of Humans on Ortea now.’

‘I have no idea Sir.’

‘This is remarkable. I am now beginning to see why Emperor Darrick makes such a fuss over the fruit and vegetables that you Humans produce. This is truly remarkable.’

‘I will warn you Sir, it has a very high fat content. Too much isn’t good for you.’

‘Thank you for the warning Captain. You know, I don’t think any other race has made such a large impact on the Federation. Now where can I get myself one of those guns?’

Jean found it very hard to stop laughing.

Chapter 58

The great Modloch Emperor stepped off the transport ship onto the unfamiliar planet’s surface. Beside him were two figures, one quite diminutive in stature compared to the Emperor himself. The other was his Chief Engineer.

His imperial guard dashed out in front of him and shielded him with their bodies. Darrick eyed up the group of dignitaries waiting for them.

‘That’s them, that’s the three Grand Commanders,’ Charlie recognised the three most prominent members of the welcoming committee. ‘Don’t worry, I sense no hostility.’

Darrick gathered his courage and began to walk towards them. He was pleased to see that the three Ortea were slightly shorter than he was. Once the ceremonies and introductions were taken care of, Tern Do momentarily turned his attention to the smallest member of the group.

‘We meet again Captain Murison. It would seem your talents are highly appreciated.’

‘I'm kept busy,’ Charlie agreed.

‘I am sure you are.’

He turned his attention back to Darrick, ‘If you would like to follow me, Emperor.’

Behind them a platform began to rise out of the ground. It was a large elevator.

‘Not really…’ Darrick admitted, ‘Where does this lead?’

‘Many years ago, our capital city was destroyed by the Federation. Since the cessation of hostilities, we have endeavoured to restore it to its former glory. The task was finished about a week ago. You will never see anything so splendid again.’

Darrick glanced at Charlie, who barely nodded. ‘Then let us see it.’

Everyone piled into the massive lift. Darrick felt an immediate chill as the sunlight was cut out. Tern Do filled them in on the history.

‘As I was saying, this was once our capital, the centre of trade and commerce for the whole planet. It is the closest city we have to the surface. We have refurbished it in the hope that one day it will once again become a cultural and commercial centre for the planet. Only this time, dealing with traders from off world.’

‘I think you may well have a way to go there,’ Darrick remarked.

‘We don’t really care Emperor. If it takes time, then it will take time.’

‘Do you have a lot of Humans living on your planet now?’

‘No, not really. Quite a few of my people have moved above ground to care, maintain and work the projects that the Humans started. There are little more than a few hundred. Most of them are civilian contractors the Humans hired from their home world.’

‘Like my bee keepers.’

‘Sorry, what?’

‘Bees are an insect from the Human world, it produces the most wonderful nectar. I have a lot of them. A single jar sells for about the same price as a commoner’s monthly wage. The beekeepers that came with them are civilian contractors. My people are slowly taking over from them.’

‘Interesting. Were those the ones the Albany abducted?’

‘Indeed, that is why my people are learning to take over.’

‘I heard the Federation caught the ship and crew that was responsible for their abduction.’

‘They gave a full confession before they were executed.’

‘Have the Albany returned your bee keepers?’

‘The fleet carrying the Humans to the Albany home world disappeared, vanished without a trace.’

Tern Do glanced at Charlie, ‘I wonder what happened to them?’

The lift stopped and they ventured onto a long platform. A train was waiting and they entered the carriages. Darrick was becoming extremely uncomfortable, but the sight of his companions, both of whom were showing no signs of stress, calmed him a little. A quick glance at Gourd and the rest of his escort showed they were even more worried than he was. That relaxed him a little more.

‘What do you call this city?’ Darrick asked his host.

‘We call it the Sky City.’

Darrick frowned, ‘It is underground.’

Tern Do smiled, ‘When it was the capital, it was called something different. We renamed it Sky. You will see why when we get there. It will only take a couple more minutes.’

The train slowed gently to a halt, and Tern Do stood. His guests followed suit. The terminal was bigger than anything Charlie and the Chief had ever seen before, and all looked brand new.

‘Before we go into the city, I would like to take you to the viewing platform. This way please.’

They followed him through some sliding doors, along some corridors and out onto a balcony. The sight took their breath away. The city was made up of sky blue stone. Above there was a dome of the same stone. Only this dome breached the surface and sunlight streamed onto the city below, a few even had to shield their eyes. On the far side of the city, was the underground sea. It too reflected the light coming down from above. Everything shimmered. Shadows of clouds crossing from the sky above were reflected down and across the whole city. It indeed looked like it was a part of the sky

‘Breath taking,’ was almost as much as Darrick could manage. ‘Was this how the city looked before?’

‘Exactly. However, before it was filled with life,’ there was a slight edge to Tern Do’s voice.

Darrick reached out and grasped his shoulder, ‘My condolences to your people for the disaster that befell them. I am happy to say that my race had no hand in it.’

‘I am aware that our races never even met until yours joined the Federation.’

‘Neither have we been involved in direct conflict.’

‘That is true.’

Darrick shook his head, ‘I would be ashamed if I thought that my ancestors had anything to do with destroying something so marvellous. Is the technology you use still the same?’

‘Yes and no. Unfortunately, so much of what we once knew is now lost to us forever. By necessity, we turned our attention away from building to war production. The machines that rebuilt this were originally from the time period that the war began. They have been salvaged, rebuilt, repaired so many times that there is nothing original left on them. Yet we no longer have the means to build one from scratch, or the knowledge to improve them.’

‘Every race out there struggles to house its vast and constantly growing population. We build forever upwards. Yet here is a solution that none on our planets even dared to think about. What a loss. I cannot apologise for the Federation Grand Commander, but I will apologise for any part, no matter how small, my people had in that war. Every member of the Federation council should come and see this.’

‘I hope one day they will. Would you like to go down?’

‘Yes I would.’

They moved to a different part of the station where dozens of lines stretched down like fingers to the city below. It reminded Charlie of the funicular railway in Aviemore, up the Cairn Gorm, only these were a lot more advanced. It was necessary to split the party up, which Gourd wasn’t very happy about.

The car shot downwards, slowing as it reached the housing. It passed countless stops and eventually stopped beside a very imposing building.

Tern Do’s voice rang strangely in the empty streets.

‘This was once our parliament building. There used to be trees here. In fact, many of the roof tops had their own gardens. I have seen pictures, it was truly a beautiful place.’

He spread his hands wide, indicating a large circular mosaic in front of the building. The pattern was intricate and made from many different types of stone, each of different colours and hues.

‘Every colour of stone in this mosaic represented a different town or city on my planet,’ he turned his back on his guests. ‘Of the many hundreds of different colours here, there are little over a dozen now still occupied.’ With those last words his shoulders began to shake. Tern Do sank to his knees as his emotions overwhelmed him. His guests, dazzled by the beauty of what they were seeing, struggled to come to terms with the devastation this mosaic now represented.

Chapter 59

‘Hey Charlie.’

‘Hi Morval.’

‘How did the tour go?’

‘It had its moments. Your Grand Commander had a bit of an episode at the big mosaic in front of the old parliament building.’

Charlie sat down at the bar and Morval slid a beer across. Charlie took a sip.

‘This isn’t bad.’

‘Human beer Charlie, from a grain called barley I think. It’s new and its popular. There isn’t a lot of it either, only those in the know, you know.’

‘Aye.’

‘Let’s grab a table.’

‘Sounds good to me.’

They found a spare table easily enough, and Charlie perched on the large seats. They were quite comfortable.

‘So the old man broke down did he?’

‘Aye.’

‘He wouldn’t be the first.’

‘I found it a wee bit hard to grasp it all at first. The Emperor thinks your population must have ran into billions at one time.’

‘It did.’

‘Aye, well, we almost suffered the same fate. Worse actually, we would have been wiped out.’

‘Your people were lucky Charlie.’

‘We were Morval. Very lucky indeed.’

They sat and sipped their beers for a while.

‘Where is the Chief?’

‘Went fishing with friends. He took the Emperor.’

‘That will be an experience for him.’

‘Aye, and if he gets covered in water or fish guts, the Chief is going to suffer for it.’

Morval laughed, ‘There is someone who wants to meet you.’

‘Let me guess - a cute chick with six tits.’

Morval’s jaw dropped, ‘Do you read minds Charlie?’

‘What?’ Charlie frowned.

‘It’s General Barum Lee, she is now in charge of off-world acquisitions. She is as cute as hell.’

Charlie shook his head, ‘I was only making a joke Morval.’

‘Your joke was pretty accurate Charlie.’

‘Does this mean I have to talk shop all night?’

‘Probably.’

‘Bollocks!’

It was almost an hour before she showed up, Charlie was just starting his third beer. She certainly looked different to most of the Ortea he had met previously, even the females. She was dressed in civilian clothes that accented the fact that she had six breasts.

Morval stood to attention, ‘General Barum Lee, a pleasure. This is Captain Murison.’

She even had a handbag she placed on the table. Like most Ortea she said what was on her mind.

‘Were you just checking me out Captain? I am used to that from the males of my own race, but not a Human male.’

‘I suppose I was, but I can assure you, it wasn’t sexual. I’m not used to seeing someone out of uniform on this planet. You look different.’

‘I think I will try and take that as a compliment Captain,’ Charlie simply shrugged, ‘We thought you might be curious to know how well the sales of our surplus bricks are going.’

‘Not really.’

She took a deep breath, ‘You are determined not to make this easy, are you Captain?’

‘General, I am genuinely not interested. Nor do I want my brains picked for new ventures either.’

‘You are very intuitive.’

‘So I have been told.’

‘Well I am going to tell you any way. It is going very well. We were wondering if you could spare more transports.’

‘You are sending those you have already back only  half full, why would we send more?’

‘We have to use external rockets to get those off the ground because they are so over loaded.’

‘We offered you beam technology. You could fill them to the bulkheads in a fraction of the time.’

‘We don’t like the idea of beam technology over our planet Captain. It could quite easily be used as a weapon to abduct our rulers.’

‘Oh stop being an arse!’ Charlie snapped, ‘No one gives a shit about abducting your rulers. It would kill them anyway.’

She went very still, ‘The last male that talked to me like that, I bit his face off.’

Morval was alarmed and he shot to his feet, ‘General, I warn you not to try anything stupid. I am a lot bigger and stronger than you. I have also passed every hand-to-hand fighting course we have. When I first me the Captain, I tried to kill him. He tossed me around like I was nothing. You will get very badly hurt.’

‘He is being very rude,’ She looked directly at Charlie, ‘You are supposed to be an officer, I am a General.’

‘Aye, well. I am an officer that came up through the ranks.’

‘That would explain that then.’

Charlie wasn’t sure why he found that funny, but he suddenly burst out laughing.

‘Morval, go get the General a beer.’

Morval went to the bar but kept looking over his shoulder with a worried look on his face.

She took a deep breath, ‘We know you can transport people with that technology.’

‘Only with the transporters in the builder’s ships. The ones we are offering you we use for reclamation, they aren’t sophisticated enough.’

‘We don’t know that.’

‘You have a solution. Take it or leave it. You aren’t getting any more ships. We could have abducted your leaders the very first day, or on any of the hundred days afterwards,’ Charlie leaned across the table, ‘Don’t you think that after everything we have been through and accomplished together, it would be slightly idiotic of us, and the Federation,’ he leaned back and took another drink.

Morval returned with a beer for the General and she took a long drink.

Her eyes sparkled, ‘That is nice.’ She tried to size up Charlie but hit a brick wall. She could do it so easily with the males from her own race. ‘It is very hard for us to trust them.’

‘For God’s sake, you are a part of the Federation now.’

‘We are an auxiliary force, working with your people and the Dents, for the Federation. It isn’t exactly the same thing.’

‘I really don’t care General. It is as good as it is going to get, for a while at least. I suppose all this crap is coming up because you no longer have anyone you can use as hostages. Now you are frightened that they will try to take this planet over by force.’

‘Maybe.’

‘Not happening. The only people who could take this place by force is my people, and I am caught up within that diplomatic loop. Okay I am not a diplomat, but I hear enough to know it’s out of the damn question. It would not only take years but it would be far too costly in lives. Plus, my people won’t take on the burden, even after we achieve Federation status. Nor are they prepared to train up other Federation forces. In a few weeks time, when you get your new warships, you will feel a lot happier.’

‘They weren’t built by us.’

Charlie downed the last of his beer and slammed the empty glass down on the table, ‘Idiots!’

‘Charlie man, please, calm down,’ Morval grabbed his glass, ‘I’ll get you another beer.’ He dashed off.

Charlie took a deep breath, ‘You people have sod all to worry about. I have a friend who is pretty damn chummy with Emperor Ne´ Langus. She is a Captain of a Human training vessel that is not a part of the Federation. She tells me the Emperor couldn’t be happier with his new forces. Within a few weeks of your forces joining the Federation, he was able to deploy the whole Human battle group. Forces that had been stuck at Federation One for months. Not only that, he has three more battle groups on the way. Aye, and once we reach Federation status, it’s going to get a lot bloody bigger as well.’

‘That side of it has nothing to do with me,’ she waved it away, ‘My problem is moving more damn bricks.’

‘Aye, well, once the Modloch Emperor gets home, you may find more than a few Modloch freighters heading your way. He wants to see more of your cities, and not for an informational tour. He is interested in the quality of the stone.’

‘He told you that?’

‘I saw his eyes twinkling. Seen it before.’

‘Still, they are only bricks.’

Charlie rubbed his temples, ‘What are you doing with all the spare seaweed you now have?’

She shook her head, ‘Why?’

‘Just answer the damn question.’

The General fought her temper, ‘It has become a nuisance. We are going to kill it off.’

‘I knew you were idiots.’

It was too much for her, she launched herself at Charlie. The next moment her face was pressed against the table. She couldn’t move. Charlie’s voice whispered in her ears.

‘I have never actually assaulted a female, apart from those on the Albany city ship. I just shot them. Now, seaweed is also a good fertiliser. Have you considered selling it to the Human farmers topside? I bet you haven’t. There is also an opportunity staring you right in the face. I bet you can dry that stuff up and ship it out. The Modloch Emperor has a new pet project of his. He is trying to make combat rations that are easily transportable. He is looking for an ingredient to replace the hay he has to add to it.’

‘Please, let me up. I won’t attack you,’ Charlie let her up. The General grabbed her bag, ‘I am going to the toilet.’

Morval skewered Charlie with a look, ‘Was that really necessary?’

‘Some people won’t listen until they know they are at a severe disadvantage Morval. You are one of them.’

Morval snorted, but his mind went back to the time he first met Charlie. It wasn’t until he had been thoroughly subdued that he was prepared to listen.

When the General returned, she had obviously attended to her looks. She sat in a prim and proper way and locked eyes with Charlie.

‘Could you tell me more about this pet project of the Modloch Emperor?’

So Charlie explained what it was all about. She sat attentively and listened. She thought about it for a few minutes before talking. The males sat and sipped at their beer.

‘So… you are thinking that we could sell the surplus seaweed to the Modloch Emperor. Don’t they have seaweed on their own planet?’

‘Of course they do, but you are set up for the commercial extraction and distribution of it. He isn’t feeding a whole nation with it, all he wants is enough to make emergency combat rations for his troops. That way, if there is a crisis in the empire, his people won’t be slowed down by waiting for food transporters. They can follow later, or even meet them on their way back.’

‘I get that. This is really important to him.’

‘It is his pet project.’

She thought it over, ‘I wonder if they would let me talk to him, even just a short interview.’

‘He will talk to you if I ask him.’

‘Oh please. You are just a Captain, a Human one at that. I can see you have been trained by the Royal Modloch Household, but what makes you so special?’

‘He feels safe with me.’

Her eyes fluttered closed for a few seconds, then opened again, ‘I don’t mean to insult you Captain, but I think you overestimate you value.’

Charlie looked at the table in front of him. It was round and made of soft metal, but sturdy.

‘Lift your drinks please.’

They hesitated, but reluctantly lifted their drinks from the table. Charlie handed his beer over to Morval. There was a horrible screeching noise as Charlie folded the table in half, then in half again. The fittings dropped off onto the floor. He carried on until it was a little bigger than a pizza slice. He handed it over to the General, who almost dropped it.

‘Not only does the Modloch Emperor feel safer when he is with me, we are also good friends.’

Charlie took out the equivalent of a Modloch mobile phone and made a call. It didn’t take long for the Emperor to answer.

‘Yes Charlie, is it something important? I'm a little busy trying not to fall into the water here.’

‘Sorry to bother you Darrick, I’ve got a lady General Barum Lee from off world acquisitions here with me at the moment. She has a very interesting proposal for you. Do you have a few minutes spare in the coming days?’

‘Do you think it is important enough Charlie?’

‘Oh aye, you’re going to love this.’

Darrick snorted, ‘Briefly then.’

‘You have been looking for something to replace the hay in your combat biscuits, right?’

‘Okay, you have my attention.’

‘The Ortea used to feed their captives on seaweed. Now they have tons of excess. They can dry it and ship it out. If I remember rightly, it is more filling and nutritious than hay.’

‘I will make time for the General. Tell her to take a sample of the dried product with her.’

‘I will.’

‘Thanks Charlie. Hey Charlie, have you ever tried fishing?’

‘I have, are you having fun?’

‘More than I could have ever presumed possible. See you tomorrow.’

‘Tomorrow.’

A shadow appeared at their side. It was the barman. He looked at the metal pole left standing forlorn, the fittings on the floor, and then at the piece of metal in the General’s hands.

‘I hope someone is going to pay for that.’

Charlie smiled wickedly, ‘The General here will take care of it. She was looking for a template to make moulds out of. She is going take some of those surplus bricks you have on the surface, turn them into table tops, and send them to the planet Earth. They will sell even faster than the bricks there. I just folded it into a nice size for her to carry.’

She managed to squeak something.

Charlie turned back to the barman, ‘I think she wants to know if you would test her theory out. Are you originally from this city?’

‘No, from Garvan.’

‘How would you like a table top made from the city of your birth?’

‘I’d like that, but it would look a bit out of place.’

‘Maybe she could replace all of them.’

He thought it over, ‘How about different ones to represent some of the other cities as well?’ He sniffed, ‘If the price is right of course, General.’

‘I think…’ she choked on her words and took a swig of her beer, ‘I think that is a wonderful idea barkeep. If you would be kind enough to act as a test subject, I think we could replace them all at cost.’

The barkeeper smiled at her, ‘I would be delighted to help in any way I can General.’ He bent down and picked up the fitment, ‘You might need this to figure out where to put the holes.’ He laid it gently on her lap and went back to the bar.

The General finished her beer and handed her empty bottle over to Morval, ‘Thank you both for your time.’

She rushed out of the bar to where her official transport was waiting. Her female driver got out of the car and opened the door. She noticed the strange objects in her hands.

‘Will I take those for you Ma’am?’

‘Yes please.’

The driver put them in the car while the General stood against it fanning herself furiously with her hand.

‘Are you okay Ma’am, you look a little flustered.’

‘I think I just fell in love.’

The driver stepped back in shock, ‘Not with the Commander Ma’am! I know he is married.’

‘No, with a damn Human. Get me back to the ministry right away. We have a lot of work to do.’

‘It is rather late.’

‘I don’t care, I don’t think I could sleep anyway. Drop me off then go home. Take me in a clean uniform in the morning.’

She climbed into the vehicle.

Chapter 60

General Barum Lee bowed low before the Great Modloch Emperor.

‘It is an honour Sir, thank you for allowing me to talk to you.’

Darrick leaned forward, ‘I am not used to dealing with females in positions of power General. So if I seem a bit rude to you at first, it isn’t personal. You look very different to most of the Ortea I have met so far. You must be quite a catch.’

‘I would be, if I had ever let a male catch me Sir. I put my career first.’

‘Charlie told you about my project?’

‘Yes he did.’

‘So you think you could help?’

‘I believe so. If I may approach?’

He waggled a couple of fingers at her. She approached with a number of aides. His guard looked nervous as they laid out a table in front of him. The products were placed on the table and then the aides stepped back.

Darrick glanced at Charlie and he nodded. She opened the various boxes.

‘This is the seaweed from start to finish. From its natural state to having been cleaned. It is given out in this form locally to those who require it. That is what most herbivores on the planet have been eating for a long time. This one is the seaweed dried and packaged for ease of transportation,’ she ripped open the pack and showed him the dried strips, ‘This one has also been dried but compressed into a solid block. The first pack will provide a daily meal for one. This compressed block, reconstituted, will provide a daily meal for ten. The final way we can provide the seaweed is in powder form. We can do individual meals or compress it into blocks.’

She finished her talk and stepped back. Her eyes sought out Charlie. His face was completely blank of emotion as he stared back at her. The Modloch Emperor sat forward and inspected the seaweed. He pushed the fresh ones to the side. He even tasted the dried strips.

‘I would like a couple of tons each of these three dried forms. No need to compress the powder, I want it loose like this. Can you have it sent up to my ship today?’

‘Yes Sir, of course.’

‘You may wonder why I left this interview until the very last day I’m here. It is because I wanted to see what else your people have to offer. I am fascinated by the different colours of your cities. I don’t just want to buy tons of the stuff like the Humans do. I want to purchase it for particular projects. I will talk to my imperial architects. I will expect your people to not only deliver the stone in the correct quantity that I require, but also to build it.’

She seemed a little shocked at the proposal, ‘Would our people be safe Sir?’

Darrick made a frustrated gesture, ‘Why wouldn’t they be? We are no longer at war.’

‘There is a lot of space between our two home worlds Sir.’

‘I will send an escort if necessary. You can rendezvous with them just outside the restricted zone. We will have all the proper documentation, and we will escort your people home as well.’

‘That should be acceptable Sir.’

‘Good, in that case you are dismissed. Captain, could you escort the General to her transport. You can tell her about the Humans that like to eat seaweed too.’

‘Will do.’

Charlie stepped up to her side as she bowed low once again. Her staff followed suit, recovering the tables and samples. Charlie saw them to the door then escorted them out of the building.

‘You didn’t tell me about the Humans that ate seaweed Captain.’

‘It didn’t pop into my mind until later on that night. The Chinese like to fry it up as an accompaniment to some of their weirder dishes.’

‘I think some races did fry it. I’m not too sure. How do I get in touch with them?’

‘I haven’t got a clue. Suggest it to the acquisition guy here. We have a quite a few Japanese on board the Ambassadors’ ships, they like it too, I think. The next time they visit you could send them a box to try out.’

‘Or you could take one with you.’

‘I suppose I could. I would go with the dried strips, but not a big box please.’

‘Maybe we could meet and discuss it some time?’

‘Not on this trip General, your Grand Commander is going to hold a simple farewell ceremony, and then we are leaving.’

‘That is a shame. You have been a great help Captain.’

‘Maybe, but I think you are all a pain in the arse. I am just a simple soldier trying to get to the end of my service in one piece.’

‘You aren’t comfortable with the attention it gets you?’

‘Not even slightly.’

‘I am used to those that surround me vying for power. You think the way many commoners do.’

‘I am a commoner.’

‘Yet you are friends with one of the most powerful beings in the galaxy, you have friends with connections to other powerful beings. That is strange for a commoner.’

‘That as may be. It doesn’t mean I have to like it.’

‘Will you return to your ship straight away?’

‘Right now my shipmates should just about be reaching home. They have a month’s leave.’

‘Oh! So you are stuck here.’

‘I have a home on this side of the galaxy. I will go there until they return.’

She seemed surprised, ‘Is that on the Modloch home world?’

‘No, on one of their outer planets. A gift from the Emperor for services rendered.’

‘May I ask?’

‘No.’

‘I see.’

‘We should be leaving in a couple of hours. You have a lot to do before then.’

‘I hope we meet again Captain.’

Charlie wanted to ask why, but he just kept his mouth shut. A strange musk she was giving off nauseated him. He didn’t quite know why she irritated him so much, nor did he want to look inside her head. Her driver gave him a strange look as she opened the door.

‘Goodbye for now Captain. Have a safe journey.’

‘Goodbye General.’

The door was closed and she kept her eyes on him until the car moved off.

Chapter 61

Darrick flopped down on Charlie’s couch, ‘I hate the damn gravity on this planet.’

‘I have turned it down in here, you should start feeling better soon.’

‘Good.’

‘Why didn’t you hold the banquet on the ship?’

‘It is about respect Charlie. I don’t respect them, but if they don’t respect me, it becomes a problem. I have to show that I am stronger than other Modloch and that I can stand the gravity here.’

Charlie smiled, ‘Tea?’

‘Let the servant get it.’

‘Your servant collapsed remember.’

‘Oh! Right, I forgot there for a moment. I must be tired.’

‘Just relax, I will get you a cup of tea.’

Darrick was able to sit up by the time Charlie returned with the tea.

‘Do you mind if I stay here tonight Charlie? I’m too tired to go back to the ship.’

‘Not at all.’

‘Good, I’m taking the bed.’

‘Not a problem. It’s so damn big I get lost in it.’

Darrick thought that was funny, ‘How is your friend the Chief?’

Charlie scratched the back of his head, ‘Not too good. Gutted is the word we would use back home.’

Darrick shook his head, ‘I have to admit, I didn’t see that one coming.’

‘Aye, his blushing bride to be getting married to a pop singer. I blame myself, I pushed him. Now he is at the complete mercy of Lady Glee and her two scheming daughters.’

‘Did you ever ask her any questions?’

‘I did. She didn’t cook up the scheme to have you replaced by her husband, but she certainly knew about it and supported him. The children are innocent.’

‘Bitch,’ Darrick took a sip of his tea, ‘I could still have her executed.’

‘Right now I think the Chief needs the distraction.’

Darrick laughed, ‘With mating season coming fast upon us, he will certainly be distracted. Who of the three do you think will win?’

‘I’m not sure. He certainly isn’t in the mood for it just now. But I would probably bet on Lady Glee. Her older daughter is more than willing, and a rival for her looks, but Glee has the sexual experience.’

‘What about the youngest one? She may well come into season too.’

‘I think she likes me.’

Darrick almost fell off the couch laughing, ‘Seriously!’

Charlie also burst out laughing, ‘Aye! Every time she sees me she makes these weird squeaking noises that Glee admonished her for. I caught Glee calling her a pervert once.’

‘You know you aren’t equipped for a Modloch female Charlie?’

‘More than aware of that thank you. Neither do I fancy cross-species breeding.’

‘You don’t find our females attractive?’

‘Not even slightly.’

‘What about the pretty little General?’

‘Eh!’

‘The Ortea General, the female.’

‘Oh her…’ Charlie shuddered, ‘No thank you.’

‘Why not! She is a meat eater, and nearer your size. She is considered an exotic beauty.’

‘She looks like an Afghan hound for god’s sake. It would be like… I’m not even going to say it, the thought repulses me. Her smell also repulses me.’

‘I noticed the smell, I think she had come into season. It was unpleasant.’

‘I thought it repugnant.’

‘Still, I think she liked you.’

‘I don’t care, I will stick to the females of my own race.’

‘I don’t see any here Charlie.’

‘Right now I don’t care Darrick. I have a lot to do here, and I am also very tired.’

‘How can you be tired Charlie? You are ninety per cent machine.’

‘My mind is tired Darrick, my body is fine.’

‘I understand. What are you going to be doing here?’

‘Planting vegetables. I have some fruit trees coming, and some chickens. All due to arrive in the next few days.’

‘So you will be scratching about in the dirt. I’m not sure I like that idea. You should think yourself more as a noble man. After all, you do have an Emperor as a friend. Think of me and my position. Get the servants to do it.’

Charlie thought that was funny.

‘I am serious,’ Darrick growled.

‘I know, that’s why I think it is so funny. Don’t worry, I won’t embarrass you. I won’t scratch in the dirt while anyone is watching.’

‘I’m tired now, would you attend me while I get ready for bed?’

‘Oh hell no. Some mysteries are better left as mysteries.’

Darrick howled with glee, ‘I imagine a pitiful creature like yourself would feel inadequate after such an encounter. Call in my guard will you.’

Charlie called in his guard. Gourd and some of his men took care of the Emperor’s ablutions. When the Emperor was settled, Gourd stopped for a word.

‘You look like shit Gourd,’ Charlie pointed out.

‘It is fine in here Charlie, but the gravity is killing us out there.’

‘There is a small shed at the back Gourd. It is within the gravity field of the house. Use it as your guard room.’

‘Thanks Charlie, that will be appreciated. I can rotate them, give a few a rest.’

‘I feel a bit guilty about him staying here. It causes you all so much hardship.’

‘It is good for us Charlie. Toughens everyone up a bit, gives them something else to moan about. Besides, the Emperor is very relaxed and in a good mood. That makes our job much easier. I’ll let myself out. Goodnight.’

‘Goodnight.’

Chapter 62

Charlie was up, showered and dressed before the Emperor’s chefs arrived in the morning. With them came a couple of manservants. By mid-morning, they were beginning to get worried. There had been no sign of the Emperor waking up. One had even sneaked in to check he was still breathing.

Fresh Modloch appeared to change the guard; only Gourd remained. Eventually, a roar from the bedroom sent the servants scurrying to their task. Half an hour later he appeared.

‘Charlie, that is a comfortable bed.’

‘Sleep well then?’

‘Wonderfully, the best sleep I have had in a while.’

‘It will be the air quality, it’s good here.’

There was a challenge from outside. Charlie got up and went to the door. It was Lady Glee. She seemed shocked to see the guards. Charlie did a quick scan of her mind and found out what she was up to.

When she saw Charlie, she bowed, ‘There is a large container here for you. I think it is from Earth,’ she glanced at the scowling guards. ‘Why is the Imperial Guard here?’

‘Lady Glee,’ the Emperor appeared at Charlie’s back. Her shock was plain to see and she hit the ground. ‘Are you trying to tell me you didn’t know I was here?’

‘I had no idea Sire. If I had, I would have had somewhere more comfortable made up.’

‘I stayed the night with a friend. I was comfortable enough. Didn’t my Chief tell you I was here?’

‘No Sire. He came home and shut himself up. He hasn’t talked to anyone yet. We were getting worried.’

‘You getting worried? The air on this planet must be changing you. So you haven’t heard the sad news?’

‘No Sire.’

‘His bride-to-be just got married to a famous musician. The life of a star’s wife must have been far more attractive than the life of a engineer’s wife.’

Her head came up and then dipped just as quickly. But all saw the delight on her face before she was able to conceal it, ‘That is a terrible shame.’

The Emperor snorted and went back inside.

With a sigh of relief, she got up, ‘I will leave you and your guest alone.’

‘Before you go, can you tell me what happened to all the lettuces I planted a couple of months back?’

‘You gave us permission to harvest them if you weren’t here.’

‘I also ordered that a few be left to go to seed. There are none left at all.’

‘They were surprisingly delicious. We could not help ourselves. I am sorry.’

‘Aye okay!’ Charlie sighed and went back inside.

Within an hour, the Emperor had left and Charlie went to inspect the container. Inside was a small tractor and all the equipment he would need to farm the land. The trailer was loaded and he ran up and down to his cottage with it.

The Modloch gardeners were fascinated to begin with, even laughing at times. They howled with displeasure when he ploughed a large piece of the now fenced off land. Over the next few days, Charlie planted potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, onions, turnips, parsnips, radish, strawberries, blackcurrants and raspberries. In the sheltered corners he planted his trees: apple, cherry, pear and plums.

A week later his chickens arrived. They quickly settled in. They became an attraction for the local children. The few insects still surviving in the soil helped air it and fertilise it, and proved a bounty for the chickens, which thrived. He had ordered a half dozen and a cockerel. By the time they arrived, a brooding hen had hatched another half dozen and a few days after they arrived, another half dozen. The little yellow chicks brought sequels of delight from all. They even brought a smile to the Chief’s face; once he finally emerged from his self-enforced isolation.

About halfway through his leave, Charlie was feeling relaxed and settled. There were very few Modloch going about as the mating season had started. He was sitting dozing just as the sun began to lower on the horizon. The doors were open to allow fresh air to enter. Charlie’s sensitive hearing picked up the crunch of gravel as someone approached the house.

His eyes flicked open and caught a shape as it passed the window. Charlie would have known it anywhere.

He was halfway to the door when there came a gentle knock. She stood there looking uncertain with a large holdall.

‘Hello Jean.’

She took a deep breath, ‘Hello Charlie. We were on our way back to the Modloch home world for a few weeks leave. I thought I would just pop in on the way past. See how you were,’ she shrugged, ‘You know.’

Charlie looked up at the sky.

‘It is gone. So I am stranded,’ Jean smiled.

‘You do realise that the chances of you leaving here with your good name and virtue intact are slim to non-existent, don’t you?’

‘Oh I do hope so.’

Charlie reached out and took her bag. The other he offered Jean. With a smile she took it and he gently pulled her inside.

The End

Table of Contents

- CHAPTER 1
- Chapter 2
- Chapter 3
- Chapter 4
- Chapter 5
- Chapter 6
- Chapter 7
- Chapter 8
- Chapter 9
- Chapter 10
- Chapter 11
- Chapter 12
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 14
- Chapter 15
- Chapter 16
- Chapter 17
- Chapter 18
- Chapter 19
- Chapter 20
- Chapter 21
- Chapter 22
- Chapter 23
- Chapter 24
- Chapter 25
- Chapter 26
- Chapter 27
- Chapter 28
- Chapter 29
- Chapter 30
- Chapter 31
- Chapter 32
- Chapter 33
- Chapter 34
- Chapter 35
- Chapter 36
- Chapter 37
- Chapter 38
- Chapter 39
- Chapter 40
- Chapter 41
- Chapter 42
- Chapter 43
- Chapter 44
- Chapter 45
- Chapter 46
- Chapter 47
- Chapter 48
- Chapter 49
- Chapter 50
- Chapter 51
- Chapter 52
- Chapter 53
- Chapter 54
- Chapter 55
- Chapter 56
- Chapter 57
- Chapter 58
- Chapter 59
- Chapter 60
- Chapter 61
- Chapter 62