The Originator Wars:

Explorations

A Lost Fleet Novel

(The Originator Wars, Book 4)

By

Raymond L. Weil

USA Today Best Selling Author

Books in the Originator Wars Series

The Originator Wars: Universe in Danger (Book 1)

The Originator Wars: Search for the Lost (Book 2)

The Originator Wars: Conflict Unending (Book 3)

The Originator Wars: Explorations (Book 4)

Website: http://raymondlweil.com/

Copyright © May 2019 by Raymond L. Weil

All Rights Reserved

Cover Design by Humblenations.com

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without permission in writing from the author.

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

The Originator Wars: Explorations

A Lost Fleet Novel

Chapter One

Admiral Race Tolsen Felt the WarHawk shake violently as its triplex energy shield was struck by multiple Eternal energy beams. The heavy dreadnought and its fleet were in a tense battle with an opposing Eternal fleet.

“We are outnumbered,” reported Zamdol, a military AI from the Originators. “Even with our new triplex energy shield and dark matter weapons this is a battle we cannot win.”

Race nodded. This was to be expected. For several years now the Eternals and the Originators had been fighting battles over galaxies outside Eternal and Originator controlled space. A treaty signed by the two prohibited conflict inside their own borders but outside of those areas there was a continuous fight to control other galaxies. It was a power struggle to see who was going to control the universe.

“We just lost two more dreadnoughts and six more battlecruisers,” reported Lieutenant Justin from his sensor console. “The Eternal fleet is closing.”

“Launching dark matter missiles,” reported the tactical officer as he touched several icons on his computer screen.

The ship shook slightly as the sublight missiles launched. On the main viewscreen, the Eternal ship the WarHawk was targeting became lit up in massive explosions of energy. A missile penetrated a weak spot in the fluctuating enemy energy shield and the vessel exploded in a nova-like flash of light.

“Target destroyed,” confirmed Lieutenant Justin.

“The Eternals are demanding our immediate surrender,” added Lieutenant Tasha Burns from Communications. “Their admiral says if we surrender our deaths will be quick and painless.”

“Ignore them,” ordered Race, his face grim with determination. He had no desire to speak with any Eternal. The Eternals thought they were superior to all other life forms.

Race turned his eyes to the massive viewscreen, which covered most of the front wall of the Command Center. There were in Galaxy X-2374 far out past Eternal space. His fleet consisted of four hundred dreadnoughts and two thousand battlecruisers. The dreadnoughts were manned by Human command crews and a few marines. The battlecruisers were operated by military AIs with other AIs as crews.

On the viewscreen, space was lit up with the explosions of antimatter and dark matter missiles as well as the periodic flash of energy beams. The battle was intense and brutal with both sides intent on destroying the other.

An Originator battlecruiser had become separated from the main fleet and was being targeted by six Eternal ships. Its energy screen was radiating brighter and brighter as it became flooded with energy. The Eternals were pounding the ship with one hundred-megaton antimatter missiles. The military AI in charge of the vessel was trying to get it back into the main fleet formation but the Eternals were blocking it. In a sudden explosion of light an energy beam penetrated the energy screen, blasting out a huge hole in the ship’s hull. The ship seemed to shake violently for a moment and then the shield began to flicker. Moments later an antimatter missile penetrated, turning the ship into molten debris.

Race let out a deep sigh. In the past six months the Originator fleets had found few victories against the Eternals. The Eternals had more galaxies and more resources, which allowed them to produce larger warfleets. While the Originator ships had a slight advantage in weapons, it was not enough to turn the tide of the battles.

“We’ve taken out four more Eternal battlecruisers,” reported Zamdol. “Numerous others have suffered substantial damage.”

Race shook his head. “It’s not going to be enough.”

Zamdol shook his head. “No, I calculate a 78 percent probability of an Eternal victory resulting in the total destruction of our fleet. We can destroy a sizable portion of their fleet but not enough to win the battle.”

This had been the story time after time during the last few years. The Originator fleets were spread too thin trying to resist the Eternals spread across the universe. The Eternals controlled over ten thousand galaxies whereas the Originators only controlled 614. Of course the Originators had the Dyson spheres and their tremendous production capability to help even things up. Race winced as another Originator dreadnought exploded on the viewscreen. More Humans had just died! In the past few years the Eternals had updated their weapon systems until they nearly matched the Originators. They had also modified their nanites so they could no longer be disabled as Fleet Admiral Strong had done several years earlier. The Eternals had added heavier defensive weapons making the defense globes, once used on Human ships, useless.

“Should we withdraw?” asked Commander Haskins. Haskins had recently been assigned as commander of the WarHawk.

The ship shook again as an antimatter warhead detonated against the energy shield. On the damage control console several lights turned red.

“Minor damage to the hull in section A-16,” reported the damage control officer. “We have two defensive turrets offline. Shield is holding at 80 percent.”

With a deep sigh, Race nodded. “It’s time to go. We’re too badly outnumbered in this battle. There’s no point in sacrificing valuable ships needlessly. Take the fleet into hyperspace and set a course for our base.”

Race leaned back in his command chair as his orders were swiftly carried out. The fleet disengaged from the Eternals and fled into the safety of hyperspace. Race didn’t know what needed to be done. The fleet was losing too many battles. Most ended like this one with the Originator fleet withdrawing before too many ships were destroyed. Unfortunately, it meant the Eternals now had control of one more galaxy.

-

At the Communications and Transport Hub Fleet Admiral Jeremy Strong was reviewing the latest reports from fleets which were engaged against the Eternals. There was very little good news.

“The Eternals are countering our every move,” said Councilor Castile, shaking her head. “They are steadily increasing the number of galaxies they control.”

“We must change our tactics,” rumbled Grayseth, who was now a council member. “The Eternals have too many ships to commit against our forces. We must do something they will not expect.”

Alton Councilor Tureen nodded his head in agreement. “If one strategy is not working then we need to commit to a new one.”

Councilor Barnes took in a deep breath and then spoke. “Perhaps we should focus our efforts further out in galaxies the Eternals have yet to explore.”

Jeremy frowned at this suggestion. “That would put our fleets too far away from us. It would take weeks or even months to resupply them or replace damaged vessels. As it is now we have to place bases far out in intergalactic space to support the fleets we have committed to this war.”

“Perhaps not,” said Councilor Trallis. “What if we placed a larger battlestation near those distant galaxies to serve as a base and repair facility? We could equip the battlestations with the blue energy spheres to ensure their security.”

Councilor Castille looked concerned. “Are you sure we should use the blue energy spheres on these stations? It is the one weapon the Eternals have no defense against and ensures the safety of the Shrieels. What if they capture one of these bases?”

“We must ensure they do not,” replied Councilor Trallis.

Jeremy looked thoughtful. “How large of a battlestation are you talking about constructing?”

“Our Accelerator Rings are one hundred and ten kilometers across. I believe the maximum size we could construct and safely send through a ring would be one hundred kilometers. I would have to consult with a few of our scientists to confirm that but I do believe it is possible.”

Admiral Jackson looked over at Jeremy. “If we place blue energy spheres on these new battlestations we have to make sure the stations are not captured by the Eternals. The spheres are one of the few weapons that still give us a substantial advantage over them. It is the primary reason they agreed to the truce.”

Jeremy nodded. All the Dyson spheres were equipped with blue energy spheres as well as the forty-kilometer defensive stations protecting the Communications and Transport Hub. In addition, the only warships with the blue energy spheres were the Dominator and the New Horizon. The Dominator was Commander Zafron’s ship and the New Horizon was Rear Admiral Barnes’ exploration vessel which Kelsey and her group had designed.

“How do we ensure none of these stations are captured?”

“We place an antimatter warhead in the center of the station and if the station is in danger of being captured we detonate it,” suggested Grayseth. “We have used such fail safes in the past.”

“It would have to be a series of antimatter warheads placed throughout the battlestation,” said Councilor Trallis. “That would be the only way to ensure the destruction of all of our technology on the station. After all, we’re talking about a much larger battlestation than those we currently have.”

Jeremy nodded. “We can do that. Our warships already contain self-destructs.” The self-destructs were activated when the ship was too damaged to go back into hyperspace though the self-destruct could be delayed by the ship’s commanding officer if necessary.

“By placing these stations far out past Eternal controlled space it will be a strategy they will not be expecting,” said Councilor Tureen. “It may be possible to establish a series of galaxies to obstruct future Eternal expansion.”

“Can we build a larger Accelerator Ring to accommodate an even larger battlestation?”

Councilor Trallis looked at Jeremy in surprise. “It is possible. How large are you thinking?”

“Five hundred kilometers.”

Councilor Trallis slowly shook his head. “I’m not sure we would have the energy to power such a large Accelerator Ring. I would have to speak to some of our power specialists. Perhaps Nomar Krill could assist. He’s well versed in antimatter and power systems. It will take a massive amount of energy to power such a large Accelerator Ring.”

“Why would you want to build such a large battlestation?” asked Councilor Castille. “Are the one hundred-kilometer battlestations Councilor Trallis is suggesting not large enough?”

Jeremy slowly looked around the large conference table where the Originator Council and a few military officers were seated. “If we’re going to be sending crews so far away from home we need to make this base into something they can return to and not feel like they’re cut off from civilization. They’re going to be months away from us by travel time.”

“You want to build some type of city inside the center of the battlestation,” said Councilor Roan in understanding. “A place where the crews can relax and live a normal life while not engaged in battle on their ships.”

Jeremy nodded. “Something like that. If we’re going to put these stations far outside the Eternals’ reach then we’re talking about very extended deployments. Also, something as large as I’m thinking about would be able to stand up to an attack by their fleets.”

“It would need a major repair facility as well as a construction dock for new warships,” added Admiral Jackson, warming up to the idea.

Councilor Trallis looked at the other Originators at the table. “I think Fleet Admiral Strong has come up with a workable solution to allow us to eventually restrict the expansion of the Eternals. Let us put a team of Originators and others together to begin the research and design of such a battlestation as well as an Accelerator Ring.”

“It will take months to complete the research and then its construction if it’s found feasible,” pointed out Councilor Metrics.”

“We will also have to assign a large crew to such a battlestation. Both in AIs and our alliance races,” added Councilor Roan.

“One more thing,” said one of the other Originators who had been listening to the conversation. “This will be a one way trip for the station. While we could construct a smaller Accelerator Ring to send ships back and forth, it would not be practical to build a larger one at the station’s location.”

“That’s acceptable,” replied Jeremy. “As long as we can still send ships back and forth it will be fine.”

-

The meeting ended and Jeremy returned to his office along with Admiral Jackson and Councilor Grayseth. He wanted to speak with both of them privately.

“Contact all of our fleets and inform them they are to continue harassing actions against the Eternals. However, I don’t want any major fleet actions resulting in large ship losses.” Admiral Jackson had taken over Admiral Kalen’s position when Kalen had been killed by the Eternals at the peace conference.

“What about Commander Zafron?” asked Admiral Jackson. “His fleet has had the most success against the Eternals. I think we should reinforce his fleet and allow him to continue full offensive actions against the Eternals.”

Jeremy nodded. “His ship has the blue energy spheres as well as other weapons. Those weapons are allowing him to achieve his victories. Go ahead and increase the size of his fleet. I would suggest we send a second rear admiral to assist him.”

“Rear Admiral Hailey Mann would be ideal,” said Admiral Jackson. “I’ll assign her and her fleet to Commander Zafron’s command.”

“Hailey is a good choice,” confirmed Jeremy. “She’s a good tactician and has worked with Commander Zafron in the past.”

“I wish we could equip more of our ships with those weapons,” proclaimed Jackson, his eyes narrowing. “We could really take the battle to the Eternals if all of our dreadnoughts had the blue energy spheres.”

“Until they captured a sample of the weapons technology,” said Jeremy, frowning. “If the Eternals had those weapons they might be able to successfully attack a Dyson sphere. That’s why we’ve restricted those weapons to just two ships and the battlestations here at the hub.”

Councilor Barnes came into the office and sat down. He took a deep breath and then spoke to Jeremy. “How are the kids?”

Jeremy grinned. “Growing like weeds. Clair is a big help as she thinks it’s her responsibility to keep the younger ones in line. Kelsey is really enjoying being a mother.”

“My own cubs follow Clair’s lead,” added Grayseth, baring his incisors in a Carethian smile. “She is a natural born leader.”

“Of course Clarissa or Ariel are nearly always around watching them,” said Jeremy. “I think Angela is still concerned by how much the two AIs are teaching the kids. Clair seems to have a better understanding of science and math every day.”

Councilor Barnes leaned back, smiling. “This is a different reality. We’re raising children on the Dyson sphere and upon spaceships amidst an intergalactic war. Also those children have two super intelligent AIs as guardians.”

“At least there’s no fighting near any of the Dyson spheres,” said Admiral Jackson. “The New Horizon has stayed around the Dyson spheres or in galaxies we control so the danger to the ship has been limited.”

“Kelsey, Angela, and Katie prefer that,” admitted Jeremy. “They don’t want to do anything which might endanger the kids.”

“They’re mothers,” replied Grayseth. “All mothers are extremely protective of their young.”

Jeremy nodded. “How are we doing on finding all of the Originator stasis chambers?”

Councilor Barnes frowned and shook his head. “We’ve activated 95 percent of them and the last few should be finished in a few more months. We’re still searching the achieves in all the Dyson spheres as well as the underground stasis facilities for traces of any we’ve missed. Leeda, Reesa, and Colonel Wilde are being very meticulous in their search.”

Jeremy stood up and walked over to the large window in his office. They were high up in the Tower and he could see much of the city, one which looked as if it was a thousand years in the future. Glass towers and ribbon walkways in various colors were visible. In the distance, other cities were visible as new colonists were arriving almost daily from the Human Federation of Worlds and several of its allies. So far, colonization had been restricted to Humans, Altons, and Carethians.

“How many colonists do we have now?” The colonists were necessary to help operate the fleets being built in the Dyson spheres. The council had agreed to nearly unlimited immigration to this single Dyson sphere from the Human, Alton, and Carethian worlds.

“Over one hundred and twenty million,” replied Councilor Barnes, “with more arriving every day.”

“How many Originators are now awake?”

“It looks as if we’re going to end up with nearly eighty-two to eighty -four million.”

Jeremy looked at Councilor Barnes in surprise. “That many!”

Barnes nodded. “Yes, some of the stasis facilities were much larger than we expected. Also some of the losses in the larger facilities were minimal due to the redundant systems the facilities possessed.”

 A sad look crossed Jeremy’s face. “I wish Councilor Bartol had lived long enough to see this. It was his dream for his race to come back and become a major force in the universe again.”

“They will be,” promised Barnes. “All of the research centers here at the Communications and Transport Hub are fully staffed by Originators, Altons, and a few Human scientists. Nearly 90 percent of the Originators we’ve awoken have elected to remain in the four Dyson spheres we have here. Nearly every Dyson sphere now has some Originators as well as Alliance military forces inside them. We’re also well on our way to completing the extra weapons being built on the outer skin of the Dyson spheres. We’ve added a tremendous number of dark matter energy cannons as well as ion beams.”

Admiral Jackson stood up and walked over to the window to stand next to Jeremy. “I don’t think I’ll ever grow tired of this view. I find it amazing every day to think this is where we live now.”

Jeremy nodded in agreement. “I know. I feel the same way on the Avenger or the New Horizon. Our living quarters on both ships are such you would never realize you were on a spacecraft.”

“When are you heading back out?” asked Governor Barnes. “It’s been enjoyable having Kathryn around for the last few weeks but I know she’s itching to go back out exploring.”

“In a few more days.” replied Jeremy. “As you know for the last few years we’ve been exploring all of the galaxies under Originator control trying to form alliances with the more advanced races. We’ve actually had considerable success thanks to the help of the Altons. Nearly every galaxy is now forming its own defense force to be used against the Eternals if they ever attack us again.”

“Exactly how are these alliances being formed?” asked Admiral Jackson. “How much Originator technology are they being given?”

Jeremy stepped back away from the window. “We’re picking out five or six of the most advanced races in each galaxy and offering them limited access to Originator technology and weapons. In return they are responsible for contacting more races in their galaxies to be part of their alliance. We have placed a few military AIs with those advanced races to keep an eye on things. We also have military bases in those galaxies and some of our battlecruisers pay periodic visits to the primary worlds to ensure nothing is being done which can be construed as dangerous. In each galaxy there are at least two dreadnoughts with Altons on board who are assisting the more advanced races to ensure a smooth transition to using Originator technology.”

“Sounds reasonable,” replied Jackson. “At least if we get into a shooting war with the Eternals in our space we’ll have some help. I also feel better knowing the Altons are involved.”

Jeremy turned back toward Councilor Barnes. “What did the council decide to do with Councilor Zorn and his group?”

A deep frown crossed Barnes’ face. “They’re going to stay in stasis. A special facility deep underground in a secret location has been constructed and their stasis chambers placed inside. It’s monitored continuously to ensure no one approaches or attempts to enter the facility. It’s also under heavy guard. We have set up a security department of Humans, Altons, and Originators who are also looking for other members of Zorn’s organization. We’ve found a few but there are still a considerable number of them out there.”

Jeremy knew the members of Zorn’s organization were still a threat. “We need to find them. There’s a lot of mischief they can cause if they gain access to the right systems.”

“We’ll find them,” promised Admiral Jackson.

“Jeremy?” asked Councilor Barnes. “Are you ever going to return back home?”

Jeremy knew Barnes was referring to the Human Federation of Worlds. “I doubt it. It’s a two-week trip there and a two-week trip back. I don’t see how I can be gone that long with everything we’re trying to do.”

“So Admiral Tolsen is right. He said Fleet Admiral Streth foresaw in one of his visions you would never return.”

Grinning, Jeremy looked over at Councilor Barnes. “We wouldn’t want to prove the fleet admiral wrong, would we?”

Jeremy had no intention of returning to the Human Federation of Worlds. It was no longer his home. His home was now with Kelsey and the kids on the New Horizon. He could think of no reason to change that.

Chapter Two

Admiral Race Tolsen breathed out a sigh of relief as the WarHawk and her fleet dropped out of hyperspace far out in the void between galaxies. There was a single star located here with a system of three planets and a small asteroid belt. Also in the system was their base, a forty-kilometer metal sphere next to an Accelerator Ring. Several battlecruisers and dreadnoughts were on patrol near the ring.

Rear Admiral Cowel’s fleet is here as well,” commented Zamdol. “I have spoken to Malene, the military AI on the Trident and she is reporting they lost nearly 10 percent of their fleet in their last battle before being forced to withdraw.”

“We needed Rear Admiral Cowel’s fleet with us in Galaxy X-2374. With her ships we would have outnumbered the Eternal fleet and could have won.” Race was becoming aggravated after suffering half a dozen defeats in a row. “We’re failing in our attempts to stop the Eternals. If we continue like this we’re going to lose the war. If we want to take and hold these galaxies we need to commit more ships to the battles.”

Zamdol turned to face Admiral Tolsen. The tall AI was quite impressive in his dark red military uniform. “Even so, the Eternals would have just sent a larger fleet to drive us out. The victory would have been a short-lived one.”

Race turned to look at the ship’s large viewscreen showing the massive battlestation they were approaching. It was heavily armed and could nearly take on an entire Eternal battlefleet on its own. Once on board they would use the station’s special hyperspace communicator to send the report of their battle against the Eternals to the Communications and Transport Hub. The crews would be given some time off for rest and relaxation before going out on the next mission.

“Things have changed,” reported Zamdol. He had been communicating with the military AI in charge of the battlestation. “Fleet Admiral Strong is recommending a change in tactics. For the time being we and Rear Admiral Cowel’s fleet are to launch harassing raids in nearby galaxies the Eternals are in the process of conquering. We are to avoid major fleet battles and concentrate on destroying smaller formations of Eternal ships.”

Race nodded. “It’s a better strategy than the one we have now. It will hold down ship losses and still allow us to destroy Eternal vessels while slowing their conquering of some of the galaxies they are targeting.”

“Vessels they can easily replace,” pointed out Zamdol. “I have the impression this strategy is only part of a much larger one Fleet Admiral Strong is developing.”

“I hope so,” replied Race. “We need to find a way to stop the Eternals or some day they’ll control the entire universe.”

“That might be difficult,” replied Zamdol. “The universe is quite large and contains billions of galaxies. Not even the Eternals will be able to conquer all of it. The distances are just too vast.”

“Perhaps not,” responded Race. “But they could still end up controlling a major part of it if we’re not successful in stopping them.”

-

Far away in galaxy X-7294, the heavy dreadnought Dominator was engaged against a large Eternal fleet. The battle was intense with the flagship in the middle of the most vicious of the fighting.

“Status!” demanded Commander Zafron as the ship shook from multiple antimatter strikes to its powerful energy screen. Zafron was the only Originator who was actually in command of a fleet.

“The Eternals have recognized us as the primary threat,” replied Kazak. “I am firing our blue energy spheres to thin out the ranks of the ships attempting to englobe us.” Kazak had a neural implant which allowed him to communicate instantly with all the systems of the ship, including controlling the vessel’s dangerous weapon systems.

On the main viewscreen, blue energy spheres darted toward the nearing Eternal vessels. The spheres struck the energy shields, absorbing the energy before going on to impact the hulls of the ships. After a few minutes the ships began to become opaque as the spheres turned the ship structures into black dust. Ship after ship in the Eternal fleet was suffering from this terrible fate.

“Our other ships are using their dark matter missiles and dark matter energy beams to destroy the rest of the Eternal fleet,” reported Captain Grayson from his sensor console.

On the viewscreen, brilliant flashes of light indicated the detonation of the 400-megaton dark matter missiles. They were the most powerful missile in the Originators’ arsenal.

“We’ve lost seven more dreadnoughts and twelve battlecruisers,” reported Kazak. “The probability of our victory is at 92 percent though we will take substantial fleet losses.”

Commander Zafron watched the viewscreen closely as a nearby Originator battlecruiser was under heavy attack. An antimatter beam penetrated its energy screen, blasting out a jagged hole in its hull causing debris to drift away from the ship. Inside the ripped open section fires ragged briefly before the vacuum of space put them out.

Commander Zafron could imagine the AI crew inside the stricken ship rushing to contain the damage. AIs were not afraid of dying though they preferred to live long and productive lives. “Can we give that cruiser some relief?”

Kazak shook his head. “The Eternal vessels attacking that battlecruiser are just out of our range.” Even as Kazak spoke half a dozen heavy energy beams slammed into the cruiser, opening more of its hull to space. Then, in a massive explosion, the ship blew apart sending flaming debris everywhere.

Commander Zafron frowned. He hated the Eternals with a passion only another Originator could fully understand. The Eternals stood for everything the Originators opposed. The Originators before the plague had hoped to be able to be a guiding light for civilizations across the universe. Instead the plague had come and the Eternals had broken free of their restraints and set out conquering galaxy after galaxy, forcing them to submit to their rule.

“I want every Eternal vessel destroyed,” ordered Commander Zafron in a cold and determined voice. “Activate the hyperspace interdiction field.”

The field had been modified such that it should prevent the Eternals from escaping into hyperspace. The field, if it worked properly, would prevent the Eternals from activating their hyperspace drives.

“Field activated,” confirmed Kazak. “They won’t be escaping.”

-

In space, the battle continued to intensify. Originator dreadnoughts and battlecruisers closed with the slightly larger Eternal fleet. Gravitonic cannons, dark matter energy cannons, antimatter cannons, and dark matter missiles hammered the Eternal fleet. Massive explosions indicated the death of dozens of warships as their shields were smashed, leaving ship hulls open to attack. Ship hulls were ripped apart from the energy beams and dark matter detonations turned the ships into miniature novas. Drifting ship debris was everywhere and ships were now having to dodge to keep from running into it.

In the Originator fleet ships were dying as well. Powerful Eternal energy beams were penetrating fluctuating shields, tearing open compartment after compartment and exposing them to the harsh vacuum of space. Antimatter missiles were blowing ships apart in huge explosions of released energy.

The difference in the battle was the Dominator and its unrelenting blue energy spheres which there was no defense against. Time and time again the deadly blue spheres would attach themselves to energy screens, siphoning off the energy and then attach themselves to the hull. A few minutes afterward all that would be left was a drifting region of harmless black dust.

-

The Eternals realized they were losing the battle and the admiral in charge ordered the fleet to escape into hyperspace. Much to his chagrin, the hyperdrives refused to function.

“There is a hyperspace interdiction field in operation,” reported the Eternal sensor operator on the flagship. “It is preventing us from entering hyperspace.”

The admiral in charge of the fleet went over to the sensor console, peering at it. “Where is the field coming from?”

“From the large vessel which has been firing the blue spheres at our ships.”

The admiral turned to examine the tactical display. “All ships are to concentrate their fire on that ship. If we can destroy it we should be able to make the transition into hyperspace.”

“Message sent,” replied the communications officer.

-

The Dominator shook violently as over sixteen 100-megaton antimatter missiles detonated against its energy screen.

“Screen is holding at 72 percent,” reported Major Donaldson.

“Concentrate our fire on the Eternal ships nearest us,” ordered Commander Zafron. “They’re the ones attempting to knock down our energy shield.”

Kazak turned toward the commander. “Too many Eternal ships are shifting their fire toward us.” Even as he spoke, the ship vibrated intensely and several red lights appeared on the damage control console. “We just lost two energy turrets but the hull is still intact. Our armor is holding.”

Zafron nodded. The hull of the Dominator was constructed of the most powerful substance known. It should be able to even handle a direct strike by an antimatter missile. However, Zafron did not want to find out if that was true. “Order the rest of our ships to close our formation. Concentrate their weapons fire on the ships closest to the Dominator.”

The ship was shaking constantly now from the heavy weapons fire. Zafron knew even the Dominator’s powerful triplex screen could survive this type of bombardment for only a limited amount of time.

“Energy screen is down to 63 percent,” warned Major Donaldson.

Zafron nodded and continued to watch the viewscreen and the firestorm which raged around the Dominator.

-

The Eternal admiral watched in anger as the ship that was the object of his fleet continued to resist the heavy weapons fire being poured into it. The vessel’s energy screen was awash in energy. Huge flashes of light indicated the explosions of more antimatter missiles. Energy beams probed at the screen, seeking a weakness. “Move more of our ships closer to that vessel. I want it hit with hundreds of antimatter missiles. Surely that will bring down its shield.”

“The other Originator ships are closing with their flagship. We’re suffering heavy ship losses,” reported the sensor officer.

On the viewscreen, the ships were now so close that there was a real danger of collisions. Flaming debris was everywhere and space itself seemed to be on fire.

From the ship in the center of that fire blue energy spheres were being launched in rapid succession. Eternal ships were being turned into black space dust everywhere the admiral looked.

“Even if we destroy that ship we have lost so many vessels the remaining Originator vessels will be able to destroy what remains of our fleet.”

The Eternal admiral drew in a deep breath. “Then we will take as many of them as we can with us. We are the Eternals and someday we will rule the universe. Order our battlecruisers to ram that vessel. Even its powerful energy shield will fail if a four kilometer ship strikes it.” The admiral was satisfied that while he may have lost this battle, his fleet would succeed in taking out this deadly warship of the Originators.

-

In space, ten Eternal battlecruisers turned toward the Dominator and accelerated at full speed toward the vessel. There was no way it would be able to move out of the way. The deadly ship that had been a nemesis to the Eternals for these last few years was about to meet its end.

-

“We have ten Eternal battlecruisers heading directly toward us,” warned Captain Grayson. “I believe they’re going to attempt to ram us!”

“Kazak, focus all of our weapons on those ships!” ordered Commander Zafron, standing up and gazing at a viewscreen. “Kia, try to get us out of the way of those incoming ships.” Zafron wasn’t sure if the powerful armor of the Dominator could survive something with the mass of a battlecruiser striking it.

-

Blue energy spheres launched and struck all ten of the incoming vessels. However, it took a few seconds for the spheres to absorb the energy from the screens and then to attach themselves to the hulls of the ships. Dark matter energy beams and dark matter missiles struck eight of the incoming ships, blowing them apart. The other two were already turning into space dust when their remains slammed into the energy shield of the Dominator. The shield flared up brightly and then collapsed.

-

“It’s going to hit us!” screamed Caption Grayson as he gripped his console preparing for impact.

Pieces of wreckage struck the hull of the ship, jarring the vessel. Then several Eternal antimatter missiles exploded next to the Dominator, opening up several compartments to space. Several secondary explosions ripped open more sections of the hull.

Commander Zafron was thrown to the deck of the Command Center as the ship shook violently and alarms began sounding. On the damage control console numerous red lights began to glow. Getting back up Zafron sat down in his command chair.

“Shield is down and we have several large ruptures in our hull,” reported Major Donaldson.

“Damage control teams are en route,” added the damage control officer. “I’ve sealed off the affected areas.”

Commander Zafron stood back up and made his way to his command chair. “Ship status?”

“We have major damage near Engineering,” reported Kazak. “I’m rerouting power systems in an attempt to get the shield back up.”

“What about our weapons?”

“Offline,” reported Kazak. “We have too many power couplings which have been destroyed. I am ordering the gun and missile crews to switch to manual control though there is only limited power to a few of our weapon systems.”

Commander Zafron turned his gaze to the main viewscreen. Hundreds of Originator battlecruisers were attempting to place themselves between the Dominator and the Eternals. Space was lit up as ships were blown apart trying to protect the flagship from more damage.

The ship shook again as several Eternal energy beams managed to get past the defending ships. One of the beams struck inside one of the hull ruptures, setting off a violent explosion.

“Hyperdrive?”

“Still functional,” replied Kia. “We would need to turn off the hyperspace interdiction field. It’s still functioning.”

Commander Zafron took a deep breath. To win this battle now without all the Dominator’s weapons would be too costly. “Turn the field off. All ships are to enter hyperspace and rendezvous back at our base. This battle for now is over.”

“Message sent,” replied Captain Franklyn.

“Hyperspace interdiction field has been turned off,” confirmed Major Donaldson.

“Activating hyperspace drive,” added Kia as her hands flew over her console.

Moments later Commander Zafron felt the Dominator make the shift into the protective environs of hyperspace. He leaned back in his command chair feeling disappointed. He had failed to win the battle when it was within his grasp. He had never expected the Eternals to attempt to ram his ship. It was something he would be watching for in future battles.

-

The Eternal admiral watched as the Originator fleet withdrew. Using an unorthodox strategy he had saved nearly half of his fleet. He would make his report to the Council of Eternals of this battle and his recommendations for future conflicts. Looking at the viewscreens, he saw the wreckage of several thousand warships. One thing he had noticed was the Originator military AIs were becoming much more adept in combat. It was obvious in future engagements Eternal losses would continue to grow.

-

Back at the Communications and Transport Hub, Kelsey was busy in the Command Center of the Super Exploration Dreadnought New Horizon. The ship was five thousand two hundred meters in length and the most powerful ship the Originators had ever built. It was armed with twenty-four dark energy turrets as well as four primary dark energy cannons on her bow. Other weapons covered the hull, adding to the dreadnought’s awesome firepower. In addition, the ship was equipped with the deadly blue energy spheres as well.

“Planning our next mission?” asked Arian Pantol. Arian was an Originator and specialized in galactic phenomena and interstellar studies.

Kelsey blinked her blue eyes and nodded. “Over the last few years we’ve pretty much explored all the galaxies under Originator control. In most of them we’ve made contact with the more advanced races and enlisted them in defending their home galaxies against the Eternals. We’ve reached the point now where the Altons can finish organizing and supervising those races.”

“It’s been an exciting time,” admitted Arian. “I’ve gotten to study many interesting stellar phenomena in some of those galaxies. I’ve written several research papers and have gathered enough data to keep me busy for years.”

Kelsey turned away from her console. “It’s been enjoyable having you and the other Originators on the ship. Is there anywhere you would like the ship to go?”

“Outside,” replied Arian. “Outside of known space. I would like to go far beyond Originator and Eternal space to see if there’s any difference. There are galaxies and other stellar phenomena we can see in our observation instruments which should not exist. I would like to travel there myself and see if I can solve those mysteries.”

“Jeremy has mentioned to me about the possibility of traveling past Eternal space to do some exploring. He’s been meeting with the council and others trying to decide what to do about the war. It’s not progressing as we had hoped.”

A look of deep concern spread across Arian’s face. “The anti-life, or Eternals as they prefer to be called, are still conquering new galaxies. They continue to grow stronger which is a concern. I have spoken to other Originators and for the moment we are at a loss as to what needs to be done.”

“I’m sure Jeremy will think of something,” said Kelsey. She was fully confident Jeremy would solve this problem. “I will mention to him your suggestion about exploring far out past Eternal space.”

Arian nodded. “Thank you, Kelsey. Let me know if there is anything I can assist you with.”

“Not unless you want to babysit,” replied Kelsey, grinning. “The kids are becoming quite a challenge to handle.”

Arian laughed, something the Originators did not do often. “I’m sure Ariel and Clarissa can handle the children.”

At the mention of Ariel’s name, the gorgeous dark haired AI suddenly appeared behind Arian using one of her holographic projections. “The children are doing fine. Clarissa has them all on a training schedule and their education is progressing satisfactorily.”

Kelsey looked critically over at Ariel. “Don’t let Angela hear that. You know how upset she gets when Clair starts spouting hyperspace math formulas.”

“It is good your children are learning at such an early age,” said Arian. “All Originator children are taught much during their formative years. It helps them to decide what field of study to go into when they grow older.”

Kelsey let out a deep sigh. She knew Clarissa was using some Originator teaching techniques on the kids. “I know and I have no problem with it as long as Clarissa doesn’t go overboard with the training. I would like to enjoy the children for as long as possible before they turn into teenagers and then adults.”

“You Humans are far different than my own people,” replied Arian. “You are so full of energy and the desire to see and do new things.” Arian smiled, recalling the far past. “My own people were once like that. I firmly believe the council is doing the right thing bringing more of your people to the Communications and Transport Hub. If we are to eventually win this war against the Eternals your people will play a key if not deciding role.”

Ariel frowned as if concentrating. “Kelsey, Jason wants you. It seems he’s in the process of having an argument with Clair about who gets to play with a particular toy.”

Kelsey shook her head. Jason was continuously challenging Clair’s authority.” Soon after their son was born, they had decided to change his name from Jacob to Jason to honor Jeremy’s father. “I’d better go. Clarissa is not the best at discipline when it comes to the kids.”

Arian watched Kelsey leave the Command Center. With a sigh of contentment, he sat down at his science console and began reviewing some of the data he had collected on their most recent voyage.

-

Jeremy was down in the main Communications Center of the Tower where Angela was. Whenever the New Horizon was docked, she spent much of her time supervising the operation of the massive Communications Center.

“Anything new to report?” he asked. With their current technology they could contact and receive a reply back from any of their fleets in just a few hours.

“Admiral Tolsen has lost his battle in Galaxy X-2374,” replied Angela. “He caused substantial losses to the Eternal fleet but was forced to withdraw once he determined he could not win the battle.”

“What about Commander Zafron?” Jeremy knew the Dominator and its fleet had brought the greatest number of victories to the Originators.

Angela shook her head. “You’re not going to like this. His fleet was forced to withdraw from a battle he was winning in Galaxy X-7294 when the Eternals suicided some of their battlecruisers by attempting to ram the Dominator. Two vessels succeeded in striking the ship’s energy shield, causing severe damage to the vessel. He was forced to withdraw to conduct repairs.”

Jeremy frowned. It sounded as if the Dominator was going to need some major repair work. “Contact all of our fleets currently engaged against the Eternals. They are to switch from direct confrontation to harassing actions only until further notice.” He had already sent that message to several of the fleets earlier.

“What about Commander Zafron and Kazak?”

“I’m going to drastically reinforce the size of his fleet. We need to have one force capable of stopping the Eternals. There are fourteen galaxies in the region of space he’s been assigned. We’re sending Rear Admiral Hailey Mann and her fleet to beef up his forces. I’m also going to send another of the forty-kilometer battlestations to him as well. I want his base to be secure from Eternal attack. If we can secure those fourteen galaxies it will give us a major base of operations for future moves against the Eternals.”

“Are we going to reinforce any other fleets?”

Jeremy looked around the busy Communications Center. From here messages were received and sent to all the Dyson spheres as well as Originator bases spread throughout the 614 galaxies under Originator control. “I don’t know. If we enlarge too many of our fleets engaged against the Eternals they’ll most likely do the same.”

Angela looked thoughtful. “If we only enlarge several of our fleets won’t it force the Eternals to enlarge all of theirs? That would force them to commit more ships to the battles and possibly reduce the number of ships they have available to attack other galaxies. It could slow down their advance.”

Jeremy was surprised by Angela’s suggestion. “It’s a possibility. I’ll need to talk to the General Staff about it first. By doing what you suggest could drastically increase our own fleet losses as well.”

“Why can’t we build a few more ships like the Dominator? If Commander Zafron had half a dozen of those ships his fleet would be unstoppable.”

Jeremy was in agreement with Angela. However, the Originators were dead set against equipping more ships with the deadly blue energy spheres for fear the Eternals might capture the technology and use it against the Dyson spheres. “I’m going to speak to the council about that again. I just need to find a method to ensure that technology stays out of the reach of the Eternals.”

Angela nodded. “I’ll get your messages sent out.”

“What’s Brace doing?” Brace was Angela’s husband.

“He’s working on increasing the size of the security detail for the New Horizon. He wants to add at least two more platoons of Marines as well as several hundred of the new combat robots which have just been introduced. I believe he’s talking to General Wesley about that today.”

Jeremy nodded. Brace was in charge of the Marines and other security forces on the ship along with Pack Leader Belal of the Carethians. Belal had forty of the large Bears in his pack who were directly responsible for security of the Special Five and the children.

“When are we going back out again?”

“Not for a while. I still have some meetings with the council as well as the General Staff I need to take care of.”

Angela grinned as she remembered something. “Grayseth and Marille are bringing their cubs over tonight to play with the kids. Are you going to be there? We’re going to have a cookout as well.”

Jeremy laughed. “I wouldn’t miss it.” Grayseth had four cubs about the same age as the children. It was hilarious watching them play together.

-

Later Jeremy was in an air car flying high above the Dyson sphere. The huge sphere stretched out as far as Jeremy could see in every direction. Below him were hundreds of habitation squares, each the size in area of a planet. Some were composed of deep oceans containing every type of fish or deep-sea creature you could imagine. Others were massive jungles hiding dangerous predators and other animals. Several even contained dinosaurs though Jeremy had yet to travel to one of those squares. The Dyson sphere’s AIs were responsible for maintaining all the habitation squares and the animals that lived in them. Jeremy was currently on his way to the main Control Center for the Dyson sphere to speak to General Wesley and several Originators who were responsible for the security of the Dyson sphere and the rest of the massive structures at the Communications and Transport Hub.

Once he was finished he would return home and he and Kelsey along with Jason would head over to Brace and Angela’s for the barbeque. It would be nice to spend some time with his closest friends and not have to worry about the Eternals for a while.

Chapter Three

On the planet Gardell the Council of Eternals was meeting. Gardell was a world of small oceans and large landmasses. It held a population of nearly ten billion Eternals, all dedicated to making their race the supreme rulers of the known universe. There was no regular workweek or day shift. The Eternals worked until their project was done and then after a brief rest started on the next one.

Space traffic around the planet was heavy as numerous warfleets were in orbit or on patrol in the star system. The system of Gardell was the most heavily defended system in Eternal space. The planet itself was surrounded by over fifty massive battlestations. There was also considerable traffic in cargo and supply ships bringing raw materials, food, and finished products to the planet. Also in orbit above the planet were numerous shipyards and research facilities.

-

“What is the current progress of our fleets?” asked First Leader Fehnral, who had taken over the position after Clondax had been killed by the Originators and their Human allies.

Second Leader Abross who was in charge of fleet deployments stood up. “All is going as planned. In the few instances where the Originators have managed to mass enough ships to destroy one of our fleets additional reinforcements have been rushed to those galaxies to ensure they stay under our control. Since the start of this limited war, the Originators have as yet to take control of any galaxy outside of their space.”

“What about our weapons technology? How does it compare to the Originators?”

Second Leader Tallard stood and faced Fehnral. “Our weapons are only slightly inferior to the Originators. They have a tenuous advantage with their dark matter weapons as well as their blue energy spheres. We have increased the strength of our own energy weapons as well as our antimatter missiles. We are still researching dark matter to see if we can duplicate the dark matter weapons technology the Originators and their Human allies are using. As far as the blue energy spheres, we are making no progress in that area of research. We may have to capture one of their ships equipped with that weapon to discover its secrets.”

“So far the Originators have only deployed one ship which we are aware of with that particular weapon,” added Second Leader Abross. “I just received a report indicating that particular ship was heavily damaged in a battle in Galaxy X-7294. We were not able to capture it as it escaped into hyperspace. One worrisome fact is this particular ship activated some type of hyperspace interdiction field which was successful in stopping our ships from engaging their hyperspace drives.”

“I have already put some of our research scientists to work on a counter field to neutralize that weapon in the future,” said Second Leader Tallard.

First Leader Fehnral looked across the large table where the council was seated. “What of these Humans? What do we know of them?”

“From what we have been able to determine from intercepted communications the Humans are allies of the Originators. The Originators are sharing their technology with this race and it is the Humans who are operating most of the dreadnoughts being sent against us. There are two other races involved as well. One is the Altons, who are a very highly developed race and as of yet we don’t know where they come from. There is one more race called the Carethians who are more barbaric.”

First Leader Fehnral took a few moments to consider what he had just heard. “It’s evident all three of these races must come from one of the galaxies the Originators control. They have allowed these races access to Originator technology as a counter move against us. We must find the homeworlds of these three races.”

“How can we?” asked Second Leader Abross. “We can’t send ships into any of the galaxies the Originators control. That was part of the agreement we signed with them. If we do so and our ships are found we risk open warfare in our own galaxies as well as theirs. It would bring our expansion into other galaxies to a complete stop.”

“We don’t send a fleet,” replied First Leader Fehnral. “I suspect whatever galaxy these three races come from they will have control of most if not all of that galaxy. Instead I want to send one or two of our most advanced stealth cruisers to all of the galaxies the Originators control. They are to avoid contact with any space-going race at all costs. They are to search all of those galaxies until the Humans are found. They are the biggest threat. Once we know their homeworld we will determine what action we need to take. If we can remove the Humans from the equation, it may be feasible to renew the war against the Originators and take over their galaxies.”

“It will take a few weeks to organize the ships,” replied Second Leader Abross. “We will need to make sure their systems are fully updated and their stealth systems are working at the optimum levels. Even so, it might take months or even several years to locate the Humans’ homeworld.”

“We are the Eternals. What are a few years to us? Inform me as soon as the stealth ships are launched. I also want weekly status updates on their discoveries.”

First Leader Fehnral was determined to destroy the Humans. Once that was done then it would become practical to conquer all of the galaxies the Originators controlled. Once that was done he would place a quarantine zone around all the Shrieels, imprisoning the Originators inside. It was a good plan and one he was sure would succeed.

-

Jeremy and Kelsey were over at Angela’s house watching the kids play together. Kelsey smiled to herself watching as Clair tried to organize games she wanted to play. Every time Clair suggested something Jason disagreed and wanted to do something different.

“Jason’s just stubborn,” said Jeremy, watching the five children. Jason was standing in front of Clair with his hands on his hips shaking his head.

“Like his father,” replied Kelsey, squeezing Jeremy’s hand.  “Both of you are stubborn at times.”

Jeremy released Kelsey’s hand and walked over to where Brace and Kevin were standing in front of a large smoking barbeque grill. Brace was grilling some large steaks as well as shish kabobs. Jeremy had to laugh as he saw on the edge of the grill two large hamburger patties.

“Hamburgers taste great cooked out,” Kevin said defensively, noticing Jeremy’s stare.

“You know Katie’s going to get on to you for eating more hamburgers.” Hamburgers were Kevin’s favorite food and he had as of yet failed to get tired of eating them.

Kevin was about to respond when Grayseth and Marille came through the gate to the backyard. Both were carrying large trays of food as the Bears had massive appetites. Their four cubs were tagging along as well and as soon as they saw Clair and the other four children they bounded away, heading excitedly toward them. There were three male cubs and a slightly smaller female cub.

“Don’t tear anything up,” warned Marille, keeping a watchful eye on her cubs. Even at this young age they were very strong.

“They will soon be going out on the Hunt,” said Grayseth, baring his large incisors. “It is our tradition that when they reach six years of age they begin learning how to survive in the wilderness. I will take them on their first few hunts and then when they are ready, take them out and leave them on their own to test their survival skills.”

Jeremy watched as one of the cubs and Jason were wrestling on the ground. The cub quickly pinned Jason and then let him up. Both were laughing. Jeremy noticed both Clarissa and Ariel were standing nearby watching closely.

Brace took the two trays of meat Grayseth and Marille had brought and placed two huge slabs on the grill as well as some slightly smaller ones for the cubs. “It’s a good thing I had this grill made so large.”

“All Carethians have healthy appetites,” said Grayseth. He then turned toward Jeremy. “When are the Avenger and New Horizon leaving?”

Jeremy took in a deep breath. He hadn’t spoken to Kelsey and the others yet about what he was considering. “I’m thinking about taking the dreadnought fleet and the exploration fleet far out past Eternal space. I want to find a cluster of galaxies in a large enough group for us to begin making contact with. If we can find sufficiently advanced civilizations who will be willing to join us in the war against the Eternals, we may be able to create a blockage point for their expansion.”

Kevin watched as Brace turned over the hamburgers, causing a loud sizzling sound. “How far are we talking about going?”

“Six weeks via an Accelerator Ring,” replied Jeremy. “That’s how long it will take to get us to the region I want to go. We will also be taking along the materials to construct two Accelerator Rings at our destination.”

“Six weeks,” replied Kevin, his face turning slightly pale. “How long would it take to get back without an Accelerator Ring?”

Jeremy hesitated and then answered, “Over a year.”

Brace put some spices on the steaks and then asked a question. “Will we be taking any of the forty-kilometer battlestations with us?”

 “I don’t know yet. We will also have some Originator cargo ships which will be carrying the rings and other essential supplies.”

Grayseth put one of his large paws on Jeremy’s shoulder. “Clan brother, how long will you be gone?”

This was something Jeremy was still not sure about. “Possibly as much as a year or longer. We will be able to remain in contact using the Accelerator Ring.”

Kevin placed two hamburger buns on the grill. “That’s a long time to be away from the Dyson sphere.” Even on their other exploration journeys they had returned to the Dyson sphere every few months.

“It needs to be done,” replied Jeremy. He hated being gone so long but he could see no other option. “Besides, Admiral Jackson and the council will keep everything running. There shouldn’t be any problems.”

Katie came over to the grill, smelling the steaks and smiling. “Remember Brace, I want mine cooked medium and Kelsey wants hers medium well.”

“I remember,” replied Brace. “And Angela wants hers well done while Grayseth and Marille want theirs medium rare.”

Katie nodded and smiled. “You’re learning.” She glanced at the grill and frowned, spotting the two hamburger patties. She glared at Kevin. “You have got to be kidding!”

Kevin turned pale but looked defiantly back at Katie. “Hamburgers taste better when they’re grilled and Brace is an excellent cook.”

“Whatever,” replied Katie. She turned and went back where the other women were sitting talking and watching the kids play.

Jeremy grinned. “Looks as if you’re in trouble again.”

Kevin shrugged his shoulders. “I just like hamburgers. Katie eats everything.”

“If we’re going to be gone for a year or more that means we need to take the kids on the New Horizon,” said Brace with a slight frown. “I don’t know how comfortable I’m going to feel about that. We’re going out into completely unknown space. Who knows what dangers we could be facing?”

“Brace is right,” said Kevin, looking over to where the kids were now playing on the large play set in the backyard. Clair and Jason were having a contest on who could swing the highest. “Maybe we should take more warships with us.”

Jeremy thought over what his two friends were saying. There was no way he wanted to put the kids in danger. “I’ll have Kelsey talk to Arian and see if they can locate a region of space which fits the parameters we’re seeking. That will give us a better idea on how long our trip will be. Once that’s been decided then we can determine what needs to come with us.”

“The council will insist on sufficient protection for you and the others,” said Grayseth in his normal booming voice. “You make me regret being on the council as I would love to go on this Hunt with you.”

Jeremy nodded. “I would love to have you along too but you need to remain here and train your cubs in the ways of the Hunt as well as be the leader for your people. There are many Carethians coming to the Dyson sphere to live and you must help to teach them the new ways here.”

Grayseth stood silently and then nodded. “You are right, Clan Brother. Living here is far different than living back on Careth. My people have much to learn and we must be careful not to lose our heritage.”

“You are a great warrior people,” replied Jeremy. “We have been through much together and I’m sure we’ll share many exciting adventures in the future.”

“Food’s ready!” announced Brace as he began putting the meat onto several large trays. Three tables were set and held the rest of the food that would go along with the meat.

-

Kelsey looked at Jason and frowned. Dirt seemed to have a way of finding him wherever he went. “We better take the kids in and wash them off.”

Angela started laughing. Clair was standing in front of Jason with her hands on her hips while admonishing Jason for getting so dirty. Jason stood there with his head hung down.

“There’s dirt all over you,” said Clair, pointing at the dirt on Jason’s clothes and face. Where did all of it come from?”

“The slide,” replied Jeremy defensively. “I fell in the sand at the end of it.”

“You didn’t hurt yourself?” asked Clair suddenly, showing concern. While she was always teasing Jason, she really liked him. Next to her, he was the smartest in the group though most of the time he didn’t show it.

“No, it didn’t hurt.”

“Then let’s go inside and clean up. I’m hungry.” Taking Jason by the hand, she led him inside followed by their smiling mothers.

-

Katie was watching the twins eat their hot dogs glad for once the four-year-olds were watching their manners. It helped that Clarissa and Ariel were nearby helping to supervise. For the most part all five of the children, including the four cubs, listened to what Clarissa told them. Across from her Kevin was chowing down on one of the two hamburgers in his plate. He had loaded both up with cheese, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and lettuce.

“Wipe the mustard off your cheek,” she said. “It’s bad enough you have to eat those things; the least you could do is not smear mustard all over yourself.”

Kevin grinned. Thanks to the youth generation treatments they all took he still looked as if he was in his early thirties. They all did. “Sorry. They just seem to taste better when someone else cooks them.”

Katie cut a slice off her steak and took a small bite. It was cooked just as she liked it. “Jeremy, I was talking to Faboll Lavar and he has some computer updates he wants to install in the New Horizon and the Avenger.” Faboll was an Originator and a specialist in computers and AI programming.

“Have him run it past Aaliss and Clarissa then they can explain to me exactly what he wants to do.” Jeremy was enjoying the evening. It wasn’t often he could get away from the ships and the Tower and enjoy an evening with no worries.

Katie nodded. Her light green eyes shifted over to Kelsey. She would need to talk to Kelsey about this as well. Even though Rear Admiral Barnes was the commander of the New Horizon, everyone knew Kelsey had a lot of say in how things were done on the ship.

-

Later as it was nearing time to leave Jeremy and Kevin were standing on one side of the yard by themselves.

“The kids are really growing,” commented Kevin as they were ushered into the house by their mothers in preparation for heading back home.

“They’ll be joining the academy before we know it,” replied Jeremy.

Kevin looked up and slowly shook his head. “It’s strange to look up into the night sky and not see moons or stars.” Night in the Dyson sphere was created by rotating panels closer to the sun that shielded parts of the Dyson sphere from the sunlight, creating darkness, and capturing energy.

“I’ve gotten used to it.” Jeremy took a deep drink of the tea from the glass he was holding in his hand. Angela made really good tea. “It’s kind of peaceful knowing there’s no danger here inside the Dyson sphere.”

“Let’s just hope it stays that way.” Kevin saw Katie come to the back door motioning for him to come inside. “I think it’s time to leave. Have to get home and put the kids to bed.”

Jeremy nodded. “It’s not like it used to be before we had children, but I wouldn’t trade them for anything.”

“I have to go on board the Avenger tomorrow,” said Kevin as he turned to go into the house. “We’re installing some new sensor arrays to increase the sensitivity of our scans. Are you going to be on board anytime soon?”

“Probably not. I’ve got a series of meetings and planning sessions scheduled for the next few days.”

“I guess we better enjoy our time here while we can,” said Kevin. “Do you really think we’ll be gone for a year or more?”

Jeremy wished it wasn’t so but in order to actually go far enough out to be able to stop the Eternals he didn’t see they had any other choice. “At least.”

Kelsey was waiting at the door holding Jason’s hand. Jeremy sighed and walked over to his wife. It was time to go home.

-

An hour later Jeremy had just finished his shower and was waiting in bed for Kelsey. Jason of course wasn’t ready for bed and Kelsey was reading him a story. As Jeremy lay there, he thought long and hard about some of the subjects which had been discussed at the barbeque in Brace’s backyard. If they were going to be gone for over a year, they might indeed need a base to come back to. Going so far out into the unknown also represented a number of dangers. What if they ran across another race similar to the Eternals? They also needed a way to repair damaged ships if the need arose. Maybe it would be wise to take one of the forty-kilometer battlestations. With a deep sigh, he realized there was going to be a lot of planning necessary before they could launch this mission.

He heard the shower come on and realized Kelsey would soon be in bed. There were some things he wanted to discuss with her and it could be done best in the privacy of their bedroom where Jason couldn’t hear.

A few minutes later Kelsey came in to the room and Jeremy’s eyes widened. She had on one of her gowns that indicated she had other things on her mind besides talking. Oh well, he thought. We can talk in the morning.

-

The space around the Communications and Transport Hub was very busy with all the space traffic coming and going. On the Four Dyson spheres, there were seventeen Vortex Control Centers on each which could create a hyperspace vortex connecting with any other Dyson sphere in Originator controlled space. In addition there were four of the large Accelerator Rings which could send a spacecraft anywhere in known space. All around the area of space where the Originators’ Communications and Transport Hub was located were hundreds of titanic structures. Many of them were massive ship construction yards and others giant manufacturing facilities which processed the raw material the Originators and their AIs needed to maintain the mega-structures. There were also research centers where the AIs and now the Originators worked advancing their science.

-

Rear Admiral Hailey Mann was in the Command Center of her flagship the heavy dreadnought Victory preparing to enter one of the Accelerator Rings and head to the battlestation where Commander Zafron was based. She was also taking additional ships to replace those he had lost in combat.

“Accelerator Ring number three will activate in twelve minutes,” reported Caria from the helm. Caria was an Originator AI.

“Space traffic is really heavy today,” commented Commander Sutherland as he gazed at the massive viewscreen in front of the Command Center. On it he could see numerous warships and smaller shuttles moving throughout the Originator complex.

Hailey gazed thoughtfully at the screen. It was so clear one felt as if you could reach out and touch space. The Communications and Transport Hub was the Originators’ most closely guarded secret. It was located in the space between galaxies and was heavily defended from attack. Every structure was heavily armed and in addition, there were forty of the massive forty-kilometer battlestations to add to its defense. Not only that but each of the Dyson spheres had its own defensive fleet.

Even as Hailey was watching the giant viewscreen one of the Accelerator Rings activated and a squadron of battlecruisers led by ten dreadnoughts entered the swirling blue vortex. Ships were constantly leaving and arriving. Some needed repairs from battle damage and others were being sent to reinforce fleets engaged against the Eternals.

“All ships report ready for ring entry,” reported Lieutenant Denise Sparks from Communications.

“Look at Ring Two,” said Commander Sutherland.

Hailey looked toward where Commander Sutherland indicated and saw one of the forty-kilometer battlestations nearing the ring. While the battlestations were not capable of hyperspace travel on their own they did possess a powerful gravity drive to allow them to move through space.

The ring activated and a dark blue vortex formed. It seemed to shimmer and swirl as if beckoning the battlestation to come forward. The battlestation accelerated on its gravity drive and entered the swirling vortex to vanish from the Communications and Transport Hub. The ring powered back down, waiting quietly until its next activation.

“It’s nearing time,” reported Caria. “I’m sending the command for ring activation.” Caria touched several glowing icons on her computer screen. Almost instantly the large Accelerator Ring in front of the Victory began to glow. Moments later the swirling blue vortex was established.

Hailey took in a deep breath. It always made her nervous when her flagship entered one of the Accelerator Rings. This time was no different. “Caria, take us in. The rest of the fleet will follow at regularly spaced intervals.” Hailey had two hundred dreadnoughts in her fleet as well as two thousand battlecruisers. It would take awhile for the entire fleet to enter the Accelerator Ring. Then it was a three-week trip to where Commander Zafron’s fleet and base were located.

The Victory accelerated forward and entered the Accelerator Ring. Hailey felt a moment of dizziness and then the ship made the transition into hyperspace but at a much higher speed than what the ship’s own hyperspace drive could generate. On the tactical display, more ships began to appear around and behind the flagship. Hailey leaned back in her command chair, relaxing. For the next few weeks there would be little to do other than run battle drills. However, once they arrived at their destination they would be engaged once more in battles with the Eternals. They were fighting a war, which most experts agreed might never end. It was a worrisome thought that her future held nothing but battles with the Eternals. Hailey blinked her eyes. She was determined to do her part because if she did, just maybe someday this war might come to an end and prove the experts wrong.

Chapter Four

Several months passed and finally Jeremy was ready to depart the Communications and Transport Hub. It had taken longer than expected to locate a cluster of galaxies suitable for what they wanted. It had also taken time to finalize the design of the new battlestation. It was still months away from being completed but when it was it would be the most powerful battlestation the Originators had ever constructed.

Jeremy was on board his dreadnought, the Avenger, waiting tensely for the Accelerator Ring to activate. After much planning and discussion with the council, it was decided he would take a substantial fleet along. He had two hundred dreadnoughts, four hundred battlecruisers, and twenty of the redesigned and updated Indomitable Class Battlestations. He was also taking one of the forty-kilometer battlestations as a primary base of operations. In addition, there were a number of large supply and cargo ships bringing additional supplies as well as munitions. In the exploration fleet there was the New Horizon plus ten other large exploration vessels. The crews were a mixture of races with Humans, Altons, Carethians, Originators and a large number of AIs.

“Were ready to activate the Accelerator Ring,” reported Aaliss.

“All ship systems are at optimum,” reported Ariel who was standing next to Jeremy.

Jeremy looked at the large viewscreen showing the structures of the Communications and Transport Hub. He drew in a long and deep breath. It would be a protracted amount of time before any of them returned. “We’ll go through first followed by the rest of the dreadnoughts. Then the Indomitable Class Battlestations will go through followed by the exploration fleet and the supply and cargo ships. After a five wait the battlestation will go through followed by the battlecruisers.”

“All ships are formed up and in formation,” reported Kevin from his sensor console.

“Message from the Tower,” reported Lieutenant Shayla Lantz. “Grayseth wishes us well on the Hunt and he will be waiting for our safe return.”

Jeremy nodded. “Inform Grayseth we have received his message and I look forward to going on the Hunt with him and his cubs when I return.”

“Acceleration Ring activation,” reported Aaliss.

“Take us in,” ordered Jeremy. He felt the Avenger move forward as it hurtled into the swirling dark blue vortex.

Moments later the ship was boosted up to intergalactic hyperspace speed. The cluster of galaxies they had chosen for their destination was nearly seven weeks distant. It was a group of seventeen large galaxies with a number of smaller satellite galaxies.

-

On board the super exploration dreadnought New Horizon, Rear Admiral Kathryn Barnes watched as the twenty Indomitable Class Battlestations went into the vortex.

“It’s our turn now,” Kathryn said, gripping the armrests on her command chair.

“Beginning acceleration,” reported Sible from the helm. “Entering Accelerator Ring in fifteen seconds.”

“The rest of the exploration fleet is right behind us,” added Captain Reynolds.

Kathryn had told her father goodbye after spending a pleasant evening with him at a restaurant they both enjoyed. They had discussed the mission and what Jeremy hoped to accomplish. Kathryn also knew her father wished she would settle down and have a couple of children. With the life enhancing medications the Originators had provided, there was still plenty of time for her to do that. Maybe in a few more years she would find someone and settle down for a while. However, at the moment she had a job to do and she was enjoying her command of the large exploration dreadnought.

The New Horizon neared the swirling vortex and entered, rapidly accelerating to intergalactic speed. Kathryn breathed out not realizing she had been holding her breath. She looked around the busy Command Center hoping no one had noticed.

“We are at speed and the rest of the exploration fleet is behind us,” confirmed Captain Reynolds.

“All systems are functioning normally,” added Clarissa.

Kathryn nodded. Now they had a boring seven-week voyage ahead of them. However, with the crew on board the New Horizon she wasn’t sure if it would actually be boring, especially with children on board. The children of the Special Five were not the only young ones on the ship. In all there were twenty-three kids on the exploration vessel. All resided in the center of the ship with their families, which was nearly indestructible.

Kathryn looked over at Kelsey who was seated close by. For this mission and since it was Kelsey’s team who had designed the vessel she had been promoted to the rank of lieutenant commander. Kelsey had demonstrated command ability in the past and Kathryn thought the role well suited her.

“We’re on our way.”

Kelsey turned toward Kathryn and smiled. “Yes we are. I wonder what we’ll find when we get there.”

“It’s a large and compact cluster of galaxies,” answered Arian, who was sitting at one of the science consoles. “We could spend years there doing research.”

“What are the odds of there being a number of space traveling civilizations in some of those galaxies?”

Andram Muce, who was sitting at one of the other science consoles turned to answer. “Very high. All of those galaxies are older than our own. We will have to be extra careful when approaching them as we have no idea what those civilizations will be like.”

“Could they be hostile like the Eternals?” asked Kelsey. Kelsey hoped not. The Eternals were already a big enough problem.

Andram pursed his lips and then answered. “It’s possible though highly unlikely.”

“Keep in mind we’re taking a considerable number of defensive assets with us,” pointed out Kathryn. “Including a forty-kilometer battlestation as our primary base.”

“As well as two Accelerator Rings,” added Camlin. She was a dark headed AI and could usually be found in the Command Center. “If we need to retreat we will be able to do so. As soon as we arrive the Originator cargo ships will begin constructing one of the rings in case it’s needed.”

Andram checked some readings on his computer screen. “We will be exiting near one of the smaller satellite galaxies. It is very similar to the Lessor Magellanic Cloud that orbits the Milky Way.”

“That will be the site of our first set of explorations,” explained Arian. “It should give us a feel for what we might find in the surrounding galaxies in the cluster.”

“Battlestation and the cruisers are coming through,” reported Captain Reynolds.

“That’s everything,” said Kelsey, feeling relieved they were finally on their way and all of their assets were in intergalactic hyperspace.

Thanks to their hyperspace communicators, they had instantaneous communications with everyone, and the New Horizon with its special communications system could still contact the Communications and Transport Hub for regular updates as needed.

“Do you really think we’ll be gone for more than a year?” asked Katie.

Kathryn looked over and nodded. “It’s highly likely. It’s going to take time to explore all of the galaxies and satellite galaxies. Don’t forget we’re going to be contacting any advanced races we find and attempt to set up a defense against the Eternals.”

Kelsey had discussed this in detail with Jeremy and knew there was a very good chance they might be gone for as long as two years. That was one of the reasons they were bringing the battlestation as well as all of the supply and cargo ships. She just wished she and Jeremy were on the same ship because they couldn’t use shuttles to go back and forth while in intergalactic hyperspace. She and Katie would just have to settle for sending messages back and forth. It would help some but it wasn’t the same as their husbands being with them. Angela was lucky as Brace was on board the New Horizon. Letting out a deep sigh, Kelsey turned her attention to the massive viewscreen that was across the entire front wall of the Command Center. They had a long voyage ahead of them and she suspected she would spend much of it staring at the viewscreen.

-

In one of the galaxies controlled by the Originators, a stealth Eternal battlecruiser was snooping around. For the past several weeks it had been mapping various star systems where intelligent space traveling species were located.

“What if we find the Humans?” asked Second Commander Delrom.

Commander Vaxall slowly shook his head. “We will report back to the council and then continue to observe.”

“Contact,” reported the Eternal standing at the sensors. “Hyperspace contact approaching at high speed.”

Commander Vaxall stepped over to the sensor console and observed the red threat icon. To travel at the speed the strange ship was traveling in hyperspace indicated a high level of technology. “Attach a tracer and we will follow the ship to its destination.”

Commander Vaxall had one month to survey this galaxy before going on to the next. So far there had been no trace of any Humans, Altons, or Carethians. However, they had encountered several Originator battlecruisers patrolling the galaxy. On both occasions Commander Vaxall had moved his ship away from the Originator vessels until they vanished from the sensors. The Originators could not be allowed to discover Eternal vessels were searching their galaxies.

“We have a lock with the tracer,” confirmed the sensor officer.

“Very well, let’s follow it and see where it’s going.”

The ship changed its course and headed in the same direction as the strange ship. Commander Vaxall planned on learning everything he could about this civilization as someday it would become part of the Eternal Empire. Vaxall was certain that day was not too far off.

-

For nearly a full day the Eternal vessel followed the ship it had detected. Finally their pursuit paid off as the ship dropped out of hyperspace in a star system with a white dwarf star.

“Detecting hundreds of drive trails in the system,” reported the sensor officer. “Most seem to be centered around the fourth planet in the system. Our sensor scans indicate either seven or eight planets.”

Commander Vaxall considered his options. His ship had to stay undetected. “Drop us out of hyperspace on the edge of the system and we will conduct our observations from there.”

The Eternal ship entered the edge of the system exiting hyperspace near a small asteroid field. Its sensors reached out, scanning the system and searching for spacecraft, probes, mining colonies, and scientific outposts.

“The system is highly advanced,” confirmed Second Commander Delrom. “It will make a fine addition to the Empire someday.”

An alarm sounded on the sensor console. “What is the cause of that alert?” demanded Vaxall, his eyes narrowing slightly.

“We’ve detected an Originator ship in orbit around the fourth planet,” replied the sensor officer.

“Has it detected us?” While Vaxall was certain his stealth systems were keeping his vessel invisible from the inhabitants of this system, he wasn’t so sure about the Originator ship. He also wondered what the Originator ship was doing here. It was evident they had made contact with this system’s inhabitants.

“No,” replied the sensor officer. “There’s no indication they are aware of our presence.”

Vaxall stood for a long moment thinking about what should be done. “I want all communications from that Originator vessel recorded and analyzed. There’s a good chance there are Humans as well as Altons on that vessel. Perhaps we can learn where their homeworlds are located.”

Vaxall clenched his right hand into a fist. The mechanical nanites in his body gave him superior strength and agility. They also enhanced his brain functions, allowing him to concentrate intently on problems. Care had been taken to make a slight design change in the nanites to make them immune from Originator tampering.

“How long are we going to stay in this system?” asked Second Commander Delrom. “By staying here so close to an Originator vessel we risk detection.”

“There is much to learn here,” replied Vaxall, settling back in his command chair. “I want this system scanned in detail and every communication from that Originator ship recorded. When I feel we have learned everything we can then we can leave. We should be safe from detection this far out.”

-

It was early the next day when Commander Roberts was summoned to the Command Center of the Salem. The ship was crewed by a combination of Humans, Altons, and Originator AIs. The Altons were heavily involved in bringing as many civilizations as possible in this galaxy into an alliance against the Eternals. Commander Roberts’ job was to take them wherever they needed to go and to keep them safe.

“What is it?” he asked as he stepped into the Command Center.

“Sir, we’ve picked up something strange on the sensors,” reported Lieutenant Commander Edwards. “We were doing routine scans of the system when we detected a black area out past the orbit of the eighth planet.

A cold chill ran down Commander Robert’s spine. “Is it moving?”

“No, sir. It been staying in the same position since we first located it.”

“How close is the next nearest Originator battlecruiser or dreadnought?”

Edwards stepped over to a console and called up some information. “The battlecruiser Star Rover is seventy-two light years distant in System XK-4493. The nearest dreadnought is at least two days away.”

“Send an encrypted message to the Star Rover that we have a suspected Eternal stealth ship in the Calmar System. We will need their assistance before we attempt to engage it.”

After a few moments the communications officer turned toward the commander. “Message has been sent and acknowledged. They will be here in four hours.”

Commander Roberts stood up and walked over to stand in front of the tactical display showing the area in question. “Contact the nearest Originator base and inform them of what we have found with our scans. Tell them the Star Rover is responding to our request for help.”

“It will take three days for any ships from the nearest base to reach here,” commented Lieutenant Commander Edwards.

“I don’t think they’ll be here in three days,” replied Roberts, his eyes narrowing. “As soon as the Star Rover arrives we’ll break orbit and move out to investigate that black area on the sensors. If it is an Eternal ship we’ll engage it and attempt to destroy it.”

“Sir, if it is a full size Eternal battlecruiser two Originator battlecruisers will not be enough. They will have far more firepower than we do.”

“I know,” replied Roberts, arching his eyebrow. “But it’s a risk we’ll have to take. I want all the nonmilitary personnel loaded on shuttles and sent down to the planet, particularly the Alton negotiating team. Inform the Originator base as to what we’re doing in case they need to send a rescue ship.”

Commander Roberts returned to his command chair. He knew there was a high likelihood that shortly he would lose his ship. However, he had strict orders to engage any Eternal vessels found in Originator space. As he thought about his order, he wondered just what the Eternal ship was doing here. It was obvious it was observing and taking scans of the system. This was a blatant violation of the treaty putting Originator and Eternal controlled space off limits to warships from both sides. There had to be a reason the Eternals were risking violating the treaty. Roberts was determined to find out what it was and report that information back to the Communications and Transport Hub.

-

Commander Vaxall was keeping a careful eye on ship traffic in the star system. Numerous interstellar vessels were coming and going indicating a robust and extensive civilization. It would make a fine addition to the Eternal Empire some day.

“Any indication we’ve been located?”

“No,” replied Second Commander Delrom. “The Originator battlecruiser is still in orbit around the planet and there’s no indication it’s noticed our presence.”

“What about their communications? Have we found anything that might indicate where the Human or Altons’ home planets are located?”

Delrom shook his head. “Only a few vague references. I don’t believe either are in this galaxy.”

“Commander, I’m detecting another Originator battlecruiser approaching this system via hyperspace,” reported the sensor officer.

Second Commander Delrom looked over suspiciously at Commander Vaxall. “Why would a second Originator ship be coming here? Is it possible we’ve been detected and the other battlecruiser has put in a request for reinforcements?”

Commander Vaxall looked over at the communications officer. “Have we intercepted any outgoing hyperspace communications from the Originator ship?”

“Several. They were highly encrypted and our computers have yet to break the encryption.”

Commander Vaxall considered the possibilities. There was a chance the Originator battlecruiser in the system had noticed them after all and called for help. It would explain the encrypted messages. “Take us to battlestations and prepare for combat. I believe the Humans have noticed our presence.”

“Commander, we were ordered not to engage in combat,” pointed out Second Commander Delrom.

Vaxall shook his head. “It does not matter now if they have indeed detected us. Just our presence alone invalidates the treaty. Besides, we are Eternals and we do not run from inferior races.”

In the Command Center, alarms began to sound and red lights started flashing. Across the ship, the Eternal crew rushed to their battlestations. Vaxall was determined that if the Humans attacked he would destroy their ships.

-

On board the Salem. “Commander, we are detecting an energy spike from the dark space,” reported the sensor operator. “I would guess the Eternals have detected the Star Rover and might suspect they have been noticed. They may be preparing to leave.”

Commander Roberts let out a deep sigh. He had hoped it would be a few more minutes before the Eternals detected the other battlecruiser. “Take us out of orbit and prepare to enter hyperspace. I want to come out of hyperspace two thousand kilometers from the suspected position of the Eternal vessel. Take the ship to Condition One and prepare for combat.”

Instantly alarms began sounding and red lights started flashing.

“Prepare dark matter missiles for launch.”

The ship didn’t have any of the more powerful dark energy cannons but it did have a few of the powerful dark matter missiles. The Salem was one of the newer, more advanced Originator battlecruisers measuring 2,200 meters in length. It had enhanced weapons as well as a more powerful power system allowing for a stronger energy shield. The battlecruisers and dreadnoughts were what the Altons were using to contact intelligent races in the 614 galaxies controlled by the Originators. On most of the ships, there was a combination of Humans and Altons as well as Originator AIs.

“Leaving orbit, setting course for the Eternal ship,” reported the navigation officer. “Estimated transit time in hyperspace is four minutes.”

“How soon before the Star Rover arrives?”

Lieutenant Commander Edwards checked his console and then replied. “Approximately twelve minutes.”

Commander Roberts settled back in his command chair. “Well, this is going to be interesting.” He was hoping the dark matter missiles he had on board would make a difference. If not, this would be a very short battle.

The Salem accelerated forward and made the transition into hyperspace.

-

On the Eternal vessel, the sensor officer had noted the Originator ship’s entry into hyperspace. “They’re coming toward us.”

Commander Vaxall was not surprised. “Drop the sensor cloaking field. They know we are here and we’ll need all of the ship’s power for this battle.”

“It’s only an Originator battlecruiser,” pointed out Second Commander Delrom. “We should have no trouble defeating it.”

“Perhaps,” replied Vaxall. “It depends on what type of weapons it’s equipped with.  Bring our energy shield up to full power and prepare to engage the enemy. We are the Eternals and will not be taken by surprise.”

-

“Enemy ship has dropped their stealth field and raised its energy shield,” reported the sensor officer. “I can now confirm it is a full sized Eternal battlecruiser. Length is four kilometers with a width of eight hundred meters.”

“Damn,” said Lieutenant Commander Edwards. “I was hoping it would be smaller.”

Commander Roberts frowned upon hearing they would be engaging one of the Eternals’ regular battlecruisers. The odds of destroying it were minimal. The only thing they could hope to do was force it to withdraw. The Eternals had to be shown wherever they appeared in Originator space they would be met with force.

The system they were in had its own defensive fleet, however, the weapons those ships were equipped with were far too weak to even consider using against an Eternal warship. It was better to keep those ships out of this battle until they could be rearmed with deadlier weapons.

“We’ll be dropping out of hyperspace in twenty seconds,” reported the helm officer.

“Hit them with our dark matter missiles as soon as we exit hyperspace,” ordered Commander Roberts. Just maybe one of them would slip through the Eternals’ defenses.

The seconds ticked by and suddenly the ship dropped out of hyperspace.

“Launching missiles,” reported the tactical officer as his fingers touched several icons on his computer screen.

Commander Roberts’ eyes shifted to the ship’s main viewscreen focusing on the massive Eternal vessel. Almost instantly the sublight dark matter missiles began slamming into the ship’s powerful energy shield. The screen lit up with light as four hundred-megaton explosions detonated. When the screen cleared, there were several scorched marks on the hull of the Eternal vessel but no other signs of significant damage.

“Firing antimatter cannons!”

Roberts leaned back in his command chair. He had hoped the detonation of so many dark matter missiles would have caused much more damage. The odds of his ship surviving this battle had just become even less.

“They’re returning fire!” warned the sensor officer.

-

The Salem’s energy screen lit up as it was hit by a number of powerful energy beams as well as some one hundred-megaton antimatter missiles. The screen flared up brightly but held.

-

“Shield is down to 68 percent,” reported the tactical officer as his hands flew over his computer screen. “Firing second wave of dark matter missiles.”

“How far out is the Star Rover?”

Lieutenant Commander Edwards checked his console. “Another six minutes.”

“We have an antimatter beam hit to their hull,” called out the tactical officer. “One of the dark matter missiles created a slight weakness in the Eternal ship’s energy screen.”

On the screen, a jagged rent nearly twenty meters in length was visible.

“Damn, wish a missile had slipped through instead,” commented Edwards, his eyes narrowing sharply.

The Salem shook violently and several red lights appeared on the damage control console.

“Energy beam penetrated our shield,” reported the damage control officer. “We lost two antimatter turrets as well as one missile tube. I’m sealing off the affected compartments.”

“Shield is down to 48 percent.”

Commander Roberts stared at the damage control console. He knew before this was over many more red lights were going to appear. “Focus all of our antimatter beams on one section of the shield and let’s see if we can force it to fail. As soon as the beams are focused hit the same area with a dark matter missile.”

“We’re running low on the missiles,” reported the tactical officer. Since they were not a dreadnought, they were only provided a limited number of the powerful missiles.

The beams fired all targeting the same point on the energy shield of the Eternal vessel. Then the missile launched and a massive blast erupted in the same area. It was sufficient to partially weaken the shield and four antimatter beams penetrated, striking the battlecruiser. Dozens of compartments were ripped open and several explosions blew large hull fragments away from the stricken ship. Then the shield snapped back into place, cutting off the attack.

“That hurt them,” said Lieutenant Commander Edwards.

The Salem shook again only this time the shaking didn’t stop. Red lights began to flare up on the damage control console. The sound of explosions and tearing metal could be heard in the Command Center.

“Energy shield is down to 18 percent,” warned the tactical officer, his face turning pale. “It’s in danger of failing!”

“We have major damage to the hull near Engineering,” reported the damage control officer. “There are numerous compartments open to space and a number of power conduits have been destroyed. We’ve lost another six antimatter cannons and three more missile tubes. We have several fires burning and we’re venting atmosphere into space. Damage control teams are en route and I’m cutting off oxygen and venting the areas where the fires are.”

Commander Roberts knew that was dooming whatever crewmembers were still in those sections but it had to be done to limit the spreading of the fires. “Do it.”

The damage control officer touched some icons on his computer screen and then reported in a strained voice. “Compartments have been vented. Fires are out.”

-

Commander Vaxall nodded in satisfaction as he saw the damage done to the Originator ship on the viewscreen. The ship wouldn’t last much longer. “Focus more of our energy beams on that vessel as well as antimatter missiles. Its screen is weakening and should fail momentarily.”

“The second Originator ship is about to exit hyperspace,” warned Second Commander Delrom.

“We will destroy this first vessel and then concentrate on the second.”

-

The Star Rover dropped out of hyperspace and immediately launched a full volley of dark matter missiles at the Eternal vessel. Commander Russell watched as massive explosions shook the enemy vessel but its shield held. “Fire all missiles at one location on the shield as well as our antimatter beams. Surely we can weaken it to the point to get one missile through.”

More explosions rocked the energy screen all focusing on one small area. Suddenly a missile went through the screen and smashed into the hull of the Eternal vessel. A massive explosion rocked the enemy ship and a good fourth of the vessel was vaporized in the fireball. Secondary explosions could be seen erupting in other areas, blasting out huge holes in the hull.

-

Commander Vaxall was thrown to the deck and stood back up with one arm hanging limply at this side. A protruding bone indicated it was broken. “Status!” he demanded, feeling anger about his ship being severely damaged.

“Hyperdrive is still functional,” reported Second Commander Delrom. “However, we’ve lost a major portion of our hull and interior damage is severe. We have a number of fires burning and secondary explosions are occurring near the damaged area.”

Commander Vaxall stood absolutely still as he thought over his options. His ship was too damaged to assure victory over the two Originator ships. He could possibly still destroy the damaged one but the other would destroy his vessel. “Take us into hyperspace. We will return to Eternal space and repair our damage.” Vaxall could already feel the nanites in his body starting to repair his broken arm.

“The council will not be pleased we were detected,” commented Second Commander Delrom.

“I will deal with the council,” replied Vaxall. He knew for failing in his mission there was a very good chance he would be sentenced to a penal colony.

-

Commander Roberts breathed out a long sigh of relief as the Eternal vessel vanished into hyperspace. “What’s the condition of the ship?” he asked, looking over at Lieutenant Commander Edwards.

“Not good. The hyperdrive is functional but I would recommend we do what repairs we can before going to one of the bases.”

Commander Roberts nodded. “Very well, put us back into orbit above the fourth planet. Perhaps they can help us with some of our repairs. Also, send a message to Commander Russell and thank the Star Rover for their assistance.”

“What’s going to happen now?” asked Lieutenant Commander Edwards. “The Eternals have broken the agreement restricting them from entering Originator space.”

“I don’t know,” replied Roberts. “I need to go to my quarters and fill out a report on this action and get it sent in. It will be up to the Originator Council to determine if any type of military response is necessary.”

Roberts didn’t know what would happen as a result of this altercation. He also wondered if there were more stealthed Eternal battlecruisers lurking around. If so, what were they searching for?

Chapter Five

Jeremy was checking the status of the ships in the fleet. So far all were functioning with no major problems detected. They still had nearly four weeks of travel before they reached their destination. He was already feeling curious about what they might find and if they would be able to locate some sufficiently advanced races to help them bring the Eternals’ intergalactic expansion to a stop. Two or three times a day he talked to Kelsey to see how she was doing as well as their son. It was hard being so close to his family but unable to touch them or see them.

“We have a report from the New Horizon,” said Lieutenant Lantz. “There’s a report from the Communications and Transport Hub an Eternal battlecruiser was detected in one of the Originator controlled galaxies. There was a battle between it and two of our battlecruisers. One of our battlecruisers received substantial damage as did the Eternal ship before it withdrew.”

Jeremy’s eyes widened upon hearing this report. He had believed the treaty between the Eternals and the Originators would last for decades if not centuries. Now in only a few short years it may have been broken.

Aaliss stepped back from Communications and looked over at Jeremy. “I don’t believe the council will start a new war in Eternal space over this, particularly if this is just an isolated incident. There is too much at stake. I suspect they will warn the Eternals hoping that will be sufficient.”

“The question is whether this really is just an isolated incident. We will have to watch over the next few months to see if there are any other reports. I suspect if they’re in one galaxy, they may be in others.” Jeremy wished the incident hadn’t happened, particularly with him so far away from the Communications and Transport Hub.

“Why were they there in the first place?” asked Kevin with a deep frown. “Why risk igniting an even worse war? It’s to their advantage for our forces to be staying out of the galaxies they control.”

Ariel looked thoughtful and then spoke. “I believe they may be searching for something. If we detect more of their battlecruisers in Originator space in the future that will prove my suspicion.”

Kevin shook his head. “What can they be searching for? They already know where all the Dyson spheres are as well as most of the large Originator bases.”

“Earth!” said Jeremy, his eyes widening with alarm and staring at Ariel. “They know we’re operating nearly all the dreadnoughts and our admirals and the Altons are in command of the Originator fleets. They may be searching for our homeworlds.”

“I don’t know,” replied Kevin, looking doubtful. “Would they violate the treaty in order to attack Earth or the Altons’ homeworld?”

“They would,” answered Major Preston from Tactical. “It would be a sound strategy. If they could eliminate the Altons and us from the equation, the Originators would be hard pressed to fight an offensive war against the Eternals. They would be forced to stay inside their Dyson spheres. They may even have to abandon all their bases in the galaxies under their control.”

“What should we do?” asked Kevin, his eyes resting on Jeremy. “We can’t let them find Earth.”

Jeremy took a deep breath. “I’ll send a message to the council and particularly Councilors Barnes and Tureen. If our home planets are in danger we need to make sure they’re aware of the threat so they can prepare for a possible attack.”

“Admiral Nagumo isn’t going to like this,” commented Kevin.

“He’ll do his job,” replied Jeremy. “He’s a good fleet admiral.”

-

Later that day in one of the Dyson spheres at the Communications and Transport Hub, the Originator Council was in emergency session.

“We have a developing situation,” reported Councilor Trallis. “All of you know about the Eternal battlecruiser discovered in Galaxy X-2381 by the battlecruiser Salem.”

“It was defeated and has withdrawn,” replied Councilor Roan. “There have been no reports of contacts in any of our other galaxies. This may be just an isolated incident.”

“That we’re aware of,” pointed out Councilor Barnes with a worried look on his face. “If they were employing stealth fields like the one the Salem encountered we may not know they’re even there. There could be hundreds of Eternal battlecruisers in our galaxies.”

Everyone was silent for several long moments as they thought over the implications of what Councilor Barnes had just said.

“Councilor Barnes is correct,” commented Admiral Jackson. He had a thick stack of folders in front of him. “My greatest concern is why the Eternals were there in the first place. I just received a message from Fleet Admiral Strong. He wants to increase our fleet presence in all the galaxies we control and search them for Eternal ships. We must determine if this is an isolated incident or an indication of something much larger.”

“There are too many galaxies,” protested Councilor Castille, his eyes widening. “It would be like looking for a needle in a haystack as you Humans would say.”

“Not if we just monitor the more advanced systems,” replied Jackson. “That’s where the Salem encountered the Eternals.”

Councilor Metrics looked over at Jackson. “What does Fleet Admiral Strong believe the Eternals are up to?”

Jackson took a deep breath and then replied. “There are several possibilities. They may just be searching our galaxies to see what type of intelligent races there are, scanning our defenses in those galaxies, or they could be searching for the Human Federation of Worlds as well as the Altons’ homeworld.”

“Why would they be doing that?” asked Metric, leaning forward.

“Admiral Strong believes if the Eternals are indeed searching for the Human Federation of Worlds. If they find the Federation, he believes they will attack it with overwhelming force. They will try to destroy the source of Humans, Altons, and Carethians we are using to operate our ships.”

“Genocide,” said Councilor Tureen, his voice quivering in shock. “How can they contemplate such a thing? It is uncivilized.”

“It is a logical step for them,” said Councilor Castille, shaking his head. “It is how the anti-life thinks. Fleet Admiral Strong may indeed be correct about the Eternals searching for the Human Federation of Worlds. It would explain the presence of the Eternal vessel and for them it would be a sound military strategy.”

“That would explain the presence of the Eternal vessel,” said Councilor Roan in agreement. “We must send more ships to see if there are other stealthed Eternal battlecruisers in our galaxies.”

“Let’s not jump to conclusions,” suggested Councilor Trallis. “If this is just an isolated incident we may be putting too much emphasis on what it might mean. I agree we should deploy more of our ships to monitor the galaxies under our control and assign them to search for stealthed Eternal vessels. We need more information before we risk an open confrontation with the Eternals.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. “I would also suggest we send a full fleet of Originator ships to the Human Federation of Worlds just in case the Eternals attack. We should also place more ships in that galaxy’s Dyson sphere in case they’re needed. It is best for us to be prepared in case there is an attack.”

“What about advanced weapons for the Alton and Human Federation of Worlds’ fleets?” asked Councilor Tureen. “Both have large numbers of warships but their weapons are woefully weak when compared to an Originator battlecruiser.”

“I would be against that initially,” replied Councilor Metrics, with a deep frown. “We don’t dare allow the Eternals to capture intelligence on our dark matter missiles or dark matter energy beams.”

Admiral Jackson nodded in agreement. “However, we could make available our more powerful antimatter missiles as well as antimatter weapons. We could also give them our gravitonic cannons since the Eternals have those as well. It would make the Alton and Federation fleets more capable against the Eternals. We have already made available to both races better power systems as well as some weapons technology. I would also suggest we deploy some of our dark matter missiles and dark energy cannons. Both the Earth and New Tellus have massive battlestations in orbit. We could place Originator AIs on board to supervise the installations. If they are in danger of being captured the AIs can destroy them.”

Councilor Trallis frowned as he thought over the suggestion. “If we do that I would want several Originators on those installations as well. We would also have to make sure the technology was heavily guarded and completely under the control of our military AIs.”

“We can assign some of our newer warrior robots to the stations,” suggested General Wesley. “The robots can be commanded by our officers from here or one of our military AIs. I feel certain we can keep the technology safe.”

Councilor Roan spoke up with great concern in her voice. “What happens if the Eternals manage to destroy both the Alton systems as well as the Human Federation of Worlds?”

Councilor Barnes looked over at Councilor Roan. “I would suggest we increase the number of people we’re bringing to the Dyson sphere. That way if the worst happens we still have a large enough population to continue the war effort.”

Admiral Jackson spoke again. “I propose we send Admiral Tolsen and his fleet back to Earth. He has experience fighting the Eternals and could be a key factor in defending the Federation.”

Councilor Trallis nodded his agreement. “Councilor Barnes, it might be a good idea for you to travel to the Federation and speak to Fleet Admiral Nagumo. He needs to know there might be a serious threat to the Federation and the Alton worlds.”

“I will leave immediately,” replied Barnes.

“My people only have our homeworld and two small colonies,” commented Councilor Grayseth. “We are far from the Federation though there is a large Federation base on Careth. I must inform my people of the danger.”

Councilor Trallis voiced his approval. “We will begin construction of a second city for your people immediately. I would suggest you contact the military AI in charge of the Shrieel in your home galaxy and have them begin constructing an Accelerator Ring in your home system. The same should be done in Earth’s system as well as the home system of the Altons.”

“We can’t risk that technology falling into the Eternals’ hands,” cautioned Councilor Metrics. “Do we want to take that risk?”

“I don’t believe we have any other choice,” replied Trallis. “We must bring as many of the three races to the Shrieel as we can before the Eternals attack. If what we believe is true they will be attempting to annihilate all three races. I don’t see any way we can protect all of those worlds.”

Admiral Jackson opened up one of the folders he had with him. “We can use additional Originator transports to begin moving large numbers of people from our worlds. I also recommend destructive charges be set in all of the Accelerator Rings so they can be destroyed if necessary. We will place several military AIs in positions to implement that order.”

“What happens to the treaty with the Eternals if they attack the Federation, the Altons, or Careth?” asked General Wesley.

Councilor Trallis spoke in a grave and solemn voice. “It will invalidate the treaty. It will be all out war in our space as well as theirs.”

“Should we recall Fleet Admiral Strong and his forces?” asked Councilor Barnes. Every day Jeremy was getting further away.

“No,” replied Councilor Trallis. “The fleet admiral has placed well qualified people in command here as well as in our fleets. Besides, what he is doing could someday end this war. If we can put a barrier of galaxies up to contain the Eternals’ expansion then we might be able to bring this nightmare to an end.”

-

Two weeks and nearly three days later the dreadnought Dagger exited the Accelerator Ring located in the New Tellus System in the Human Federation of Worlds. On board Councilor Barnes wondered what it would feel like to see Ceres once more after all of this time. The Accelerator Ring was located in the New Tellus System since the people there were more accepting of the new technology and it was also a very powerfully defended star system.

“We’ve arrived,” announced Commander Schmidt as the stars appeared around the massive dreadnought.

On the main viewscreen, New Tellus became visible. It was a blue-white world with large oceans and vibrant landmasses covered in forests and rolling plains. In orbit were six massive asteroid fortresses with the largest being over twenty-two kilometers in diameter. The System Defense Command Center resided in the heart of the asteroid.

On another viewscreen, New Tellus Station was visible. It was one of the largest shipyards in the Federation. The sprawling shipyard was sixteen kilometers in length and eight in width and contained six massive construction bays, which could produce any size ship the fleet required plus twelve repair bays. The shipyard was covered in offensive and defensive weapons with the firepower of a dozen dreadnoughts. Twenty Indomitable Class Battlestations surrounded the station as well as over four hundred particle beam satellites.

There were five other large shipyards in orbit around New Tellus as well. The system was full of ship traffic with fleets coming and going. New Tellus served as the jumping off point for fleets going deep into the former Hocklyn Empire on routine patrol duty. There were dozens of cargo ships as well as passenger liners nearly always in the system. The New Tellus System also had a robust mining industry as many of the system’s moons and asteroids were rich in minerals. As a result there were large numbers of mining ships and cargo vessels moving about in nearly all areas of the system.

“It’s a busy place,” commented Councilor Barnes, looking at the tactical display showing hundreds of friendly green icons. It reminded him of Earth’s system which was even busier.

On the viewscreen, he could see several battlecruisers docked to New Tellus Station as well as numerous cargo ships. Shuttles were constantly moving from the station to the large spaceports on the planet’s surface. On another screen, he could see half a dozen Originator battlecruisers near the Accelerator Ring. These ships were tasked with making sure the ring did not fall into enemy hands. While they were in the New Tellus System, Commander Schmidt would be placing antimatter explosive charges on the ring to ensure its destruction if the Eternals attacked the system. Several additional military AIs would be staying behind as well.

“Is Admiral Nagumo here?”

“Give me a moment,” replied the communications officer.

Lieutenant Bryce spent a moment talking to one of the communication officers on New Tellus Station and then turned to face the commander and Councilor Barnes. “He arrived yesterday along with the president. They’re both waiting for you in the VIP quarters on the station.”

“How soon before we dock?”

“Ten minutes,” replied Commander Schmidt. “We’ve been given priority docking privileges.”

Councilor Barnes watched the viewscreens as the massive dreadnought approached the station and then gently docked to one of the primary docking ports.

“Good contact and seal; we’re at station keeping,” reported the Originator AI at the helm.

“Excellent,” replied Commander Schmidt. Schmidt then stood up and stretched. “Councilor Barnes, if you will follow me we’ll make our way to the main exit hatch.”

As they made their way to the hatch, Councilor Barnes was surprised to find two heavily armed Marines accompanying them at a discreet distance.

“What are the guards for?”

Commander Schmidt glanced back at the two Marines before answering. “Ever since the Defenders of Zorn woke up we’ve been taking extra security precautions. As you know there are hundreds of Zorn’s followers we haven’t located. They could be anywhere.”

Councilor Barns shook his head. “An eight foot tall Originator should be pretty easy to spot.”

“That’s true,” replied Commander Schmidt. “However, there are a few Originators working with the Federation on upgrading parts of their technology. While they’ve been cleared as not being members of the Zorn sect it’s best not to take any chances.”

They reached the hatch and exited the ship, finding two more guards on the outside. They walked down a long corridor and took several turbo lifts up to the command deck where the VIP quarters were located. They reached a long corridor with a series of hatches along each side. Several more heavily armed Marines were stationed along the corridor.

“Sure is a lot of security,” commented Councilor Barnes. He wasn’t used to seeing this on the Dyson sphere except in the Tower.

A Marine guard was waiting for them in front of an open hatch and indicated for them to enter. As soon as they passed through the Marine shut the hatch, securing it. In the room was a lavish conference table and four other people, two men and two women. Councilor Barnes instantly recognized Fleet Admiral Nagumo standing at the head of the table.

“Councilor Barnes, Commander Schmidt, welcome to New Tellus Station,” greeted Admiral Braedon Cross who was in charge of New Tellus Station and all the shipyards and fleets in the system. He gestured to the other two people who were present in the room. “This is Fleet Admiral Nagumo, whom you already know and General Madison Wilcox who is in charge of the Command Fortress and the other five asteroid fortresses. She is also in charge of all orbital defenses except those protecting the shipyards. And this is President Evelyn Treadway of the Human Federation of Worlds.”

“Madam President,” acknowledged Councilor Barnes. “With me is Commander Schmidt of the dreadnought Dagger.” Barnes had met President Treadway when she was just a senator from Mars.

“Pleased to meet the two of you,” replied President Treadway. “I have been briefed in part of the threat you have come here to warn us about. Why don’t we sit down and discuss it in more detail and decide what steps we need to take to protect the Federation.”

-

For the next two hours Councilor Barnes and Commander Schmidt briefed the other four about the potential threat the Eternals posed to the Human Federation of Worlds, the Altons, and the Carethians. Commander Schmidt had some video footage of battles with Eternal vessels which they all watched.

“Very impressive,” commented Fleet Admiral Nagumo. He had been taking notes during the entire presentation.

“How big are those Eternals ships?” asked President Treadway.

“They’re four kilometers in length,” Barnes answered. “They are armed with extremely powerful energy beams and antimatter missiles with one hundred-megaton warheads.”

Admiral Crown was studying the Eternal ship displayed on the large viewscreen in the conference room. “And you believe these Eternals are searching for Earth?”

“There’s a high probability of that,” replied Councilor Barnes. “We’ll know for certain if we spot more of their ships in other galaxies controlled by the Originators.”

“Our ships can’t stand up to something like that,” said Admiral Crown worriedly. “We would suffer massive losses just trying to take one of those vessels out.”

Councilor Barnes nodded in agreement. “We have provided the Federation with some older Originator vessels and even those would have problems fighting against Eternal vessels. We are proposing making available to the Federation and the Altons Originator antimatter cannon technology as well as provide one hundred-megaton antimatter missiles for your warships. In addition we will give you a better power system to increase the strength of the energy shields which protect your vessels.”

“We have already installed the latest technology you provided us,” said Nagumo with a frown. “It cost a fortune to make the updates we already have. To have any chance of surviving a major conflict with the Eternals we will need more Originator warships.”

“What about newer Originator warships?” asked Admiral Crown. “The older ones you furnished us have been a tremendous help in pacifying much of the galaxy. However we will need the newer ones to take on the Eternals.”

“Due to the technology on those vessels I’m afraid we can’t turn those types of ships over to you. However, we are willing to place several fully upgraded Originator fleets in some of your star systems, which will have our latest technology. We will also be increasing the number of warships in this galaxy’s Dyson sphere. Those ships can travel via Accelerator Ring to the ring in this system in just a few hours. It’s for that reason we would like to add rings to the Solar System as well as the capital system of the Altons.”

Fleet Admiral Nagumo blinked his eyes and nodded. “I fully understand the Originators’ hesitation in turning over to us their most advanced technology. If I were in their situation I would do the same thing.”

President Treadway narrowed her eyes in thought as she considered what Councilor Barnes had just proposed. “I would have to run it by the Senate Council. I know of only a few senators who might oppose the idea. At least that would give us some advanced ships to hold off the Eternals.”

“As much as I hate to say this we need to implement these polices as quickly as possible,” said Councilor Barnes, stressing the urgency with his voice. “We have no idea when the Eternals might discover the Federation. There’s a small chance they already have.”

“I’ll head back to Earth immediately and call a meeting of the Senate Council. As far as the more advanced weapons for our ships, I believe Senator Brown will be receptive to begin doing that immediately here in the New Tellus System.”

General Wilcox nodded her head. “I believe that is true. I spoke to him earlier and he’s quite agreeable to accepting your recommendations.”

“There’s one other thing,” added Councilor Barnes. This was going to be the hard one. “We would like to immediately begin moving more Federation citizens, Altons, and Carethians to our Dyson sphere.”

“Why?” asked President Treadway with a look of confusion on her face. “There are already millions of people from all three races going there every year.”

Councilor Barnes hesitated. “There’s a chance we will not be able to stop the Eternals. Their fleet far outnumbers ours. If they are determined to destroy the Federation, the Altons, and Careth we may not be able to stop them.”

President Treadway’s face turned pale. “You’re talking about an evacuation.”

Councilor Barnes nodded. “I’m afraid you’re right. If you’re in agreement we’ll set up Accelerator Rings in more systems to evacuate people. We have Originator transport ships that can transport tens of thousands of people at once. We would like to begin as soon as possible. Councilor Tureen is on his way to visit the Altons with the same proposal.”

President Treadway looked at Councilor Barnes in shock. “You think we’re going to lose?”

Barnes hesitated and then replied. “We believe the Eternals feel by eliminating the Federation, the Altons, and Careth it will change the direction of the war, forcing the Originators to drop their opposition to the Eternals’ expansion across the universe.”

President Treadway slowly shook her head. “This is going to be hard to get past the Senate Council.”

“You must do the best you can to persuade them,” replied Barnes. “If you fail to do so we’re not going to have the people we need to stop the Eternals.”

General Wilcox crossed her arms over her chest and spoke. “New Tellus and Earth are the only two systems that might be able to survive such an attack. However, in order to do so we need to begin updating our weapons systems immediately. We also need to begin pulling the majority of our fleets back to New Tellus and Earth.”

Fleet Admiral Nagumo spoke with a deep frown across his face. “It’s going to be a major job updating our ships to accommodate the weapons we’re being offered. It’s also going to be very expensive. Also, where’s Fleet Admiral Strong?”

“He’s on a mission that’s going to take a while,’ replied Councilor Barnes. “Since he’s not currently available Admiral Tolsen will be returning to Federation space to command the ships the Originators are sending here.”

“I’ll be glad to have Race back,” replied Fleet Admiral Nagumo, pleased with this announcement, “even if it’s only temporary.”

“Let’s go briefly over the weapon systems we’re going to make available to you,” suggest Commander Schmidt. “It will give you a better idea of what you need to do.”

“One thing,” said President Treadway with a look of concern on her face. “What if we do all of this and the Eternals don’t show up?”

Commander Schmidt looked over at Councilor Barnes waiting for him to answer.

“Our AIs are predicting an 82 percent probability they will. Are you willing to risk all the lives of the people in the Federation for an 18 percent chance they won’t?”

President Treadway slowly shook her head. “If the Eternals do show up it will be the end of the Federation as we know it.”

“However, if we evacuate enough people, the Federation will continue but on a Dyson sphere and there are some tremendous advantages to living on one,” replied Barnes.

“He’s right,” said Fleet Admiral Nagumo. “In this situation all we can do is hope to hold our losses to a minimum. I believe the best expectation we have for continued survival is here at New Tellus, the Solar System, and the Dyson sphere. I fear there is nothing we can do to save the other Federation worlds if the Eternals launch a major attack against us. I would suggest we immediately begin increasing our defenses in those two systems and start evacuating as many people as possible from the others.”

President Treadway stared down at the table for several long moments before replying. “I’ll use my emergency powers to make the funding you’re going to need immediately available to you. I’ll also return to Earth and call a meeting of the Senate Council. That is one meeting I’m going to dread. Many of those senators are not going to accept what we’re talking about.”

Admiral Nagumo looked over at Councilor Barnes. “How much time do you think we have?”

“Possibly a year or more. Even after the Eternals find the Federation, it will take them some time to organize a large enough fleet to attack. Careth is probably safe initially. The Eternals will no doubt focus on the Federation and the Altons. Once both have been eliminated they will move on to other regions of this galaxy, including Careth, to make sure no one escaped them.”

Admiral Nagumo leaned back in his chair. “The Altons will never abandon the City of Light in the center of the galaxy. Too much of their heritage is there.”

“That will be a decision the Altons will have to make. President Treadway, I suggest we begin what evacuations we can immediately. Originally we were going to evacuate everyone to the Dyson sphere at the Communications and Transport Hub but Fleet Admiral Strong has suggested we send everyone to this galaxy’s Dyson sphere to reduce transit time. Then later we can begin moving everyone to the Communications and Transport Hub.”

Admiral Nagumo nodded. “That will greatly speed up evacuations. What about accommodations on the Dyson sphere?”

“Already being set up,” replied Barnes. “They will be pretty basic but livable. We just need to get as many people away from the Federation as possible.”

“I’ve heard about life on the Dyson sphere at the Communications and Transport Hub. It seems better than what it is here in the Federation,” commented President Treadway.

“Just more advanced,” replied Councilor Barnes. “It will be like stepping into the future by several hundred years. The Dyson sphere we live in has far more room inside than is available on all of the planets of the Federation, the Alton worlds, and Careth combined. Every type of climate you can hope for is available there. Plus there’s room for us to expand for thousands of years.”

“Sound like paradise,” commented General Wilcox.

Councilor Barnes smiled. “In many ways it is. I don’t believe there will be any long term regret about moving our people there.”

President Treadway let out a deep sigh and blinked her eyes. “Then it’s settled. Fleet Admiral Nagumo, you will begin organizing our defenses to protect the entire Federation with special emphasis placed on the systems of New Tellus and Earth. Move our military assets around as you see fit. I’ll take care of the political part of all of this.” President Treadway stood up. “Councilor Barnes, I may need you to attend the Senate meeting to help explain some things. I’m sure there are going to be a lot of questions. Some are going to be very difficult to answer.”

Barnes nodded. He had been expecting this request. “That’s one of the reasons why I’m here.”

“One more thing,” interrupted Fleet Admiral Nagumo. “How soon can you get Admiral Tolsen here?”

“The recall order for him and his fleet has already been sent. He should be here within the next month. He’ll also be bringing his fleet with him.”

President Treadway took a moment to look at everyone in the room. “I don’t need to tell everyone everything mentioned in this meeting needs to stay classified until I meet with the Senate. I fear we’re about to throw our economy into chaos.”

“This is about survival,” replied Fleet Admiral Nagumo with a determined look on his face. “We must do whatever it takes to survive.”

“Let’s just hope we do,” replied President Treadway. She knew the Federation was about to change. Many would not accept what must be done. However, this was war and the survival of the Human race was at stake. She would do whatever had to be done to ensure Humanity continued, even if it was on a Dyson sphere millions of light years from home.

Chapter Six

Admiral Race Tolsen took a deep breath as the WarHawk exited the swirling blue vortex of the Accelerator Ring into the New Tellus System. His fleet had been greatly reinforced after reports had been received at the Communications and Transport Hub of the possible detection of two more Eternal battlecruisers in galaxies controlled by the Originators. There was no longer any doubt the Eternals were searching for something and the most likely object of those searches was Earth and the Federation.

“We’ve arrived,” reported Commander Haskins. “The rest of the fleet is still emerging from the ring.” On the main viewscreen, ship after ship was appearing.

“Move us away and have the fleet assemble around us,” ordered Race. “Do we have contact with New Tellus Station?” The station had been notified earlier about their expected arrival time so they would not be shocked when thousands of Originator warships began appearing.

“Yes,” replied Lieutenant Tasha Burns. “We’re being given an orbit for our fleet of eighty thousand kilometers above New Tellus. New Tellus Traffic Control has cleared that area of ships.”

Race nodded. That would work. “As soon as all ships have exited the vortex have them form up in a standard cylindrical formation in that orbit with the WarHawk at the center.” This was a formation which could be used for both offense and defense.

“There is a lot of construction activity going on around the planet,” reported Zamdol, the male military AI. “Sensors indicate additional asteroids have been placed in orbit and a large number Indomitable Class Battlestations are under construction.”

Race smiled. “Senator Brown and Admiral Crown have been busy. What about the shipyards?”

“Every bay seems to be full,” reported Zamdol. “I would guess they’re upgrading their warships.”

This didn’t surprise Race. Since New Tellus had been colonized by survivors of the original Human Federation of Worlds they had always taken the lead in war preparation.

“We’re detecting large numbers of battleships and strikecruisers in the system as well as a few battlecarriers,” reported Lieutenant Justin from his sensor console. “There seems to be large numbers of vessels coming and going.”

Race turned his attention to the ship’s main viewscreen showing a panoramic view of the space around New Tellus. Spacecraft were everywhere and numerous shuttles were busy traveling to the new asteroids that had been dragged into orbit. Race was certain these new asteroids were being turned into defensive fortresses to go along with the six already in orbit. On the viewscreen, he could see boring machines were already digging deep into the asteroids in preparation for installing their defensive and offensive weapons. Blast marks across the asteroids indicated where large sections had been smoothed. Energy shields would not work if there was a mountain in the way.

“Hell of a lot of work is being done,” commented Commander Haskins.

“New Tellus has never been a planet not to take a threat seriously,” replied Race.

“How soon before your sister gets here?”

Massie’s fleet had been assigned to the Solar System and Race was looking forward to working with his younger sister once again.

“Another week at least,” replied Race. “She has to make arrangements for more ships as well as have her fleet resupplied.”

On the viewscreen, a small explosion occurred on one of the asteroids, throwing debris into space. An energy field above the demolition site stopped the fragments, which were then gathered up by a number of waiting shuttles.

Small craft were visible swarming over the surface of the asteroid blasting small obstructions out of the way and using energy beams at low power to smooth uneven areas. Parts of the asteroid were glowing red where the surface had been melted.

“You can tell they’ve done this before,” commented Commander Haskins.

Race nodded. “If you have time go back and look at the videos of the construction of the original asteroid fortresses. It’s quite breathtaking.”

“Is there a chance any of the Originator forty-kilometer battlestations will be sent here?”

This possibility had been discussed by the Originator Council in a recent meeting. “Maybe. If they are they will only be allowed in the Solar System and here at New Tellus. Keep in mind the primary weapons on the battlestations are their dark energy cannons and missiles.”

“All ships have come through the ring,” reported Zamdol. “Ring is deactivating.”

“Where’s Councilor Barnes? Isn’t he here in the system somewhere? We’re not picking the Dagger up on our sensors.”

“No, he’s at Earth helping President Treadway with the Federation Senate. From what I understand some of the senators are not willing to accept their worlds might be in danger and others are demanding massive quantities of resources to protect their systems. Just rumors of what might be in store for the Federation has sent the economy into a tailspin. The president has already had to freeze prices and wages for the immediate future.”

On the viewscreen, a strikecruiser moved lower over the surface of an asteroid and began using its energy cannons to vaporize debris floating near the asteroid. Bright flashes of light indicated each time a fragment was struck.

“Do you think they have a chance?”

Race turned his eyes away from the viewscreen. “Maybe, if we have enough time to prepare. If we have a year to get ready we’ll make the battle for the Federation the most costly one the Eternals have ever been in.”

Commander Haskins looked back at the viewscreen. “I wonder what this will look like a year from now.”

“Hopefully it will still be here. There are a lot of people currently living in this system though it’s not even close to being one of the most heavily populated in the Federation.”

-

The fleet formed up into a massive cylindrical formation. Battlecruisers were on the outside of the cylinder with the dreadnoughts in the center around the WarHawk.

“Fleet is formed up,” reported Commander Haskins. “Reducing alert status to Condition Five.”

“We have ring activation,” reported Zamdol. “It should be a squadron of Originator passenger vessels.”

Race looked toward the ring which was now lit up. The first of ten massive ships appeared. Each was capable of moving nearly twenty-five thousand people and their possessions to the Dyson sphere in this galaxy. Senator Brown had already made arrangements to send nearly four million young families to the Dyson sphere. The rest would be remaining to fight the Eternals.

“Have those ten passenger ships join us in orbit. I’ll contact Admiral Crown and see when he wants to start the loading process. We can provide shuttles if he needs us to.”

Race leaned back in his command chair. He hoped they had a year to prepare but he greatly feared they didn’t. One thing he wanted to do while both he and Massie were here in the Federation was visit their parents. Their parents were currently living on New Tellus after leaving Ceres. It would be good for them to get together as a family once again. He let out a deep sigh. He knew his parents were disappointed neither he nor Massie had gotten married. His mother always talked about grandchildren anytime they were together. Race suspected his destiny was with the fleet. Massie on the other hand had dated a few young men, including a rear admiral. Maybe she would be the one to leave the fleet and finally settle down. It would be nice to have a few nieces and nephews running around.

-

“This is ridiculous!” screamed Senator Adams from the planet Serenity in the Epsilon Eridani System. “Why would I want to abandon Serenity for some godforsaken Dyson sphere? The Eternals cannot be as big a threat as you claim. We have the most powerful fleet in Federation history. Our weapons are superior to any other race in our galaxy. If the Eternals come here we will destroy them!”

“You’ve seen the video footage,” replied Councilor Barnes, trying to show patience with the outspoken senator. “While the weapons of the Federation are powerful they still don’t compare to the weapons the Eternal warships are equipped with. I can assure you if you do not prepare, the Eternals will destroy the Federation.”

“It’s the fault of the Originators!” yelled Senator Hanford of Bliss, also in the Epsilon Eridani System. “We should never have become involved in their futile war against the Eternals. This is what they’ve brought down on us!”

Other senators nodded and voiced their agreement. It was obvious the meeting was not going as President Treadway had hoped.

“If we do nothing we will die,” said Senator Malross of Mars. “At the very least we should fortify our star systems in preparation for the coming of the Eternals.” Surprisingly, very few other senators voiced their approval.

-

For several more hours the arguments continued going back and forth over what should be done. President Treadway did everything she could to bring the Senate Council around to her way of thinking. However, in the end everything came crashing down because of Senator Adams and Senator Hanford.

“I propose we leave it up to individual star systems as to how to deal with this alleged danger,” said Adams, standing up and looking at the other senators. “Let each system spend what it feels is justified. As for Serenity and Bliss, we will not be increasing our defense budgets nor will we be contributing to this year’s defense budget for the Federation. Already our economies are in shambles because of the rumors of an impending Eternal attack. Our systems are already heavily defended and we don’t feel any increase is necessary.”

“I second the motion,” said Senator Hanford. “Let each system decide for the next few years what their individual economies can stand in the way of increased defense spending. As Senator Adams has already stated the planets of Serenity and Bliss will not take part in this farce by the military to greatly increase their spending. Our current fortifications and fleets should be sufficient to protect us. After all, we defeated the Hocklyns and they controlled an Empire.”

Sensing defeat, President Treadway watched in disbelief as the motion was passed by a majority of senators.

-

Later President Treadway, Fleet Admiral Nagumo, and Councilor Barnes were in the president’s office discussing the meeting.

“Now what?” asked the president. “Nearly half of our worlds are refusing to recognize the threat.”

“True,” replied Councilor Barns. “But look at the ones which did. We have the planets of Earth, Mars, New Tellus, Horizon, Twilight and Harmony that do support the increase in military spending. Those are the most powerful and heavily populated planets in the Federation.”

Admiral Nagumo looked up from several reports he had been studying. “If the worlds who do not want to contribute to the Federation defense budget take over their own defense it will actually give us more versatility with what we want to do. That means defense funds aimed for those systems are now free for us to use. What Senators Adams and Bliss forgot is that there are a considerable amount of credits always in the Federation defense funds. Funds not spent or allocated in the yearly budget can be directed toward special projects at the recommendation of the Fleet Admiral if approved by the president. For the past several years those funds have been piling up. I suggest all of those funds be earmarked to be used in building defenses against the Eternals around the worlds that support us.”

President Treadway looked concerned. “We’re risking tearing the Federation apart.”

“The Eternals will see to that,” replied Councilor Barnes.

“What about the Altons?” asked Nagumo.

Councilor Barnes had spoken to Councilor Tureen just before today’s Senate Council meeting. “They’ve agreed in part. They will evacuate much of their younger population to the Dyson sphere as well as some of their more esteemed scientists. They plan on mounting a defense around their capital planet as well as the City of Lights in the center of the galaxy. A large number of Altons will be going to the City of Lights as well.”

“What is Careth doing?” asked President Treadway.

“They’re increasing their orbital defenses,” answered Councilor Barnes. “They do not wish to abandon their homeworld. However, they are going to send several million of their younger citizens to the Dyson sphere to ensure their race continues in case Careth falls.”

President Treadway looked over at Fleet Admiral Nagumo. “What next?”

Nagumo let out a deep breath. “I’m calling an emergency meeting of the General Staff. We need to design a defensive strategy for dealing with the Eternals. We also need to get an Accelerator Ring set up in the Solar System as soon as possible to begin evacuations. I suggest we set one up in the Tau Ceti System as well since Horizon and Twilight are both there. There are nearly six billion people in the system and I would like to evacuate as many as possible.”

“I’ll make arrangements for the Accelerator Ring,” replied Councilor Barnes. “We should have it set up in a matter of days. We can get one from the Dyson sphere in this galaxy as several extra were sent there in case they were needed for the evacuation.”

“All right, let’s get this thing going,” ordered President Treadway. “Fleet Admiral Nagumo, let me know of anything you need. I’ll arrange for you to have full access to the reserve defense funds. I’ll also have our communication people begin sitting up informative broadcasts of what’s going to happen and what’s expected of our people. Councilor Barnes, I need videos of the cities Humans are staying in at the Dyson sphere at the Communications and Transport Hub. We need to explain to our people the steps we’re going to be taking. I’m sure there are many who will refuse to evacuate but I suspect there will be a sizable number that will agree to make the move.”

Councilor Barnes leaned back in his chair, satisfied with the progress they had made. While not as great as he had hoped, it should at least ensure the survival of the Human race.

-

Far out in intergalactic space, Jeremy watched as the Avenger exited hyperspace.

“We’ve arrived,” announced Aaliss from her position near Navigation.

On the primary viewscreen, a satellite galaxy with a diameter of eight thousand light years appeared. There were approximately two hundred and twenty million stars in the small galaxy.

“It looks beautiful,” commented Lieutenant Shayla Lantz, staring at the viewscreen.

Ariel stepped over closer to the sensor console, studying the readouts as more of the fleet spilled out into regular space. “Our position is within a few hundred light years of where we targeted. Not bad for a trip as long as ours.”

“I’m just glad we’re finally here,” said Kevin, leaning back and watching his sensor screens. “I need to spend some time with Katie and the twins.”

“As soon as the entire fleet gets here and we get everyone organized we’ll begin allowing shuttle traffic between vessels,” replied Jeremy. He wanted to see Kelsey and Jason as well.

-

For the next hour the rest of the fleet exited hyperspace and took up their position around the Avenger. Jeremy’s eyes were glued to the viewscreen as the New Horizon and the other exploration dreadnoughts appeared and took their place within the fleet formation.

“Sensors are still clear,” reported Kevin. The enhanced sensors on the Avenger could reach out nearly thirty light years in all directions. So far the sensor screens were staying absent of any threatening red icons.

“Battlestation arriving!” called out Kevin as a massive object dropped out of hyperspace a few hundred kilometers from the Avenger.

The forty-kilometer station looked gigantic on the viewscreen. It would be their main base while they explored this region of space. Jeremy knew from Originator records no one had ever been out this far. This was all unexplored territory.

Finally, when every vessel was present Jeremy began organizing the fleet. The forty-kilometer battlestation was placed in the center. Around the station, the twenty updated Indomitable Class Battlestations were arranged at a distance of two thousand kilometers. The fleet’s cargo and supply ships were place in orbit between the station and the large defensive satellites. Jeremy then placed his dreadnoughts and battlecruisers around the Indomitable Class Battlestations to act as support units. The eleven exploration ships all moved closer to the battlestation and went into orbit a few hundred kilometers above it.

“All assets are in position,” reported Aaliss.

Jeremy breathed out a sigh of relief. “Excellent! For the next two days all fleet units will stay at this position while we use our science departments to scan the nearby satellite galaxy. We’ll use that time to pick out some choice stars to begin our first explorations.”

“I imagine the New Horizon will be doing most of the scanning with their astrometrics department,” said Kevin.

Jeremy nodded. “They have the most advanced equipment in the fleet. Two days should give them enough time to pick out some exploration targets for us.”

“Clarissa wants to know how long it will be before you and Kevin come over to the New Horizon,” Ariel informed them. “Some children are asking about the two of you.”

Kevin stood up turning his console over to his relief. “I think it’s time we return to our parenting duties.”

“Yeah, I believe you’re right,” replied Jeremy as he turned the ship over to Aaliss. Ariel would be going with them over to the New Horizon. “Keep me informed of any new developments though as far away as we are from everything I don’t expect for there to be any threat.”

“I have command,” replied Aaliss as she took her spot in the command chair. “Now, go check on your children. We have several days before we can launch any exploration missions. Be with your families while you can.”

-

Aaliss watched as Jeremy, Kevin, and Ariel left the Command Center to take a shuttle to the New Horizon. While she had lived a long life as an Originator AI sometimes she wished she were a true living being. As an AI there were some things she could just not experience. The love of a child was one of them.

-

Jeremy, Kevin, Ariel and a few others boarded a shuttle to take them to the New Horizon. Jeremy was sitting next to a large, heavily reinforced window looking out at the fleet. Most of the ships were difficult to see as the only real visible light was from the satellite galaxy and the large spiral galaxy it was orbiting. However, all of the fleet ships were at least partially lit up with their own lights and already there was a beehive of activity between the different units.

“I’m curious to see the inside of the battlestation,” commented Kevin as they passed close by it on their way to the New Horizon.

Jeremy laughed. “You’re going to be amazed. We made some design changes due to this possibly being a long deployment. In the very center of the station is a heavily armored cylinder five kilometers long and three kilometers wide. We built a comfortable city inside. We wanted our crews to have somewhere to go to relax and feel at home. I think what we built will be quite sufficient.”

Jeremy examined the battlestation as the shuttle passed close by it. Numerous hatches, missile tubes, and weapon turrets were visible. It was quite impressive and would make a good base while they were exploring the nearby galaxies.

The shuttle turned and began its approach to the New Horizon. The New Horizon was even larger than the Avenger and was the most powerful ship the Originators had ever built, even more powerful than the Dominator. It was also the only other ship in the fleet equipped with the deadly blue energy spheres. At five thousand two hundred meters the ship nearly covered the star field as the shuttle entered one of the open hatches to the flight bay.

“I thought the Avenger was big,” commented Kevin, staring in awe at the massive ship. “Every time I come aboard this ship it still amazes me.”

“I think Kazak and Commander Zafron are a little jealous,” added Ariel. “The Dominator was once the largest and most powerful warship but that isn’t true anymore.”

Jeremy watched as the shuttle set down on a landing pad. “We wanted something the children would be safe in. The center section of the New Horizon is nearly indestructible. Kelsey and her team did a great job designing this ship.”

“There are twenty-three children on the ship,” continued Ariel. “I think it is good to have more children around. Clarissa reports Kelsey and Katie are waiting for you in the nearby receiving lounge.”

“Then let’s not keep them waiting.”

A few moments later Jeremy and Kevin walked into the receiving lounge where their wives were. Ariel had already headed off to check on the children.

“Jeremy!” exclaimed Kelsey as she stood up and went over to give him a long affectionate kiss and hug. “I didn’t know how long it was going to take you to get away from the Avenger.”

“Kevin,” said Katie with her hands on her hips. “We’re having a family meal together tonight and there will be no hamburgers served!”

“Yes, dear,” Kevin said meekly as he took Katie in his arms and kissed her. What she didn’t know was he had eaten a large hamburger and fries earlier in the day. He would let Katie have her way for now.

“We need to go to the children’s section,” said Kelsey, taking Jeremy by the hand. “Clarissa has them in one of the lounges waiting for us. They’re all three quite excited about seeing their fathers.”

-

It didn’t take long for the four of them to make it to the center of the ship where the children were. The New Horizon had several turbo elevators and moving stair shafts to get one quickly to where a crewmember needed to be. There was a double metal hatch that had to be traversed to reach the central section with two large towering Bears standing guard. Somehow this didn’t surprise Jeremy considering how protective the Bears were of Kelsey.

They entered the secure area and Kelsey led them to a nearby lounge area where the children were playing. As soon as Jeremy stepped inside he heard a loud scream. “Daddy!”

Jason came flying across the room, throwing himself into Jeremy’s waiting arms. Kevin’s two twins were right behind.

“Finally back together,” said Clarissa, pleased with the reunion. Angela’s children were there as well though Angela and Brace were still on duty.

Jeremy stood up holding Jason. “Wow, you’ve really grown since we left the Communications and Transport Hub.

“Of course,” replied Jason, trying to sound like an adult. “After all, it’s been nearly seven weeks.”

Jeremy was still amazed at how bright the four-year-old was. He knew it was due to Ariel and particularly Clarissa being in charge of their education. A number of Originator teaching technologies were being used on the children, ones which Angela checked very carefully before Clarissa was allowed to use them on the children.

“Are we at the new galaxy?” asked Clair. The five-year-old was speaking more like an adult everyday.

Jeremy realized the advancement and education of the children would be like none before. “Yes, Clair. We’re there.”

This seemed to satisfy Clair as she went back to a comfortable chair and picked up a book she had been reading.

“So, Jason. Want to tell me what you’ve been doing?”

Jason nodded his head enthusiastically. “Follow me and we’ll sit down and I’ll tell you everything I’ve learned in the last seven weeks.”

-

Kelsey watched as Jason led Jeremy over to a large sofa and promptly began filling her husband in on what he’d missed. It was nice to have her family back together even if for only a few days. They had come here on a mission and she was second in command of the New Horizon. With a deep sigh, she decided not to worry about it but to enjoy their time together. Walking over to the couch she sat down next to Jeremy and smiled as she listened to Jason tell his father what he had been doing. Kelsey hoped there were many more days like this ahead of them where they could be together as a family. These were the kind of days they would remember and always be special.

Chapter Seven

On the planet Gardell the Council of Eternals was meeting. Over the last several months their stealth battlecruisers had explored a number of the galaxies controlled by the Originators. So far there had been no indication of where the homeworlds of the Humans, Altons, or Carethians were located. However, the explorations were continuing with renewed emphasis on stealth.

“The Originators have filed a protest accusing us of violating the treaty we signed with them,” reported First Leader Fehnral as his eyes swept across the council. “Battlecruiser Commander Vaxall managed to have his ship detected and then engaged in a battle against two Originator warships. This was contrary to the orders he was given. His ship was heavily damaged and forced to withdraw. A number of Eternals lost their lives in the battle.”

“The fool took too many risks,” said Second Leader Abross. “He had orders to avoid detection as well as combat. We are superior to the Originators and the Humans and should not make such mistakes.”

“What has become of Commander Vaxall?” demanded Second Leader Nolant. “He must be punished for his lack of vision and failure to follow orders.”

“He’s been stripped of his command and sent to the penal colony on Darvin Four,” replied Fehnral. “He will be working in the mines on the planet for the rest of his short life. His nanites have also been disabled.”

Disabling an Eternal’s nanites was considered the worst punishment possible because it prevented all the physical and mental enhancements the nanites allowed. It also greatly shortened the lifespan of an Eternal, making them more mortal.

“A suitable punishment,” replied Second Leader Nolant. “It will set a good example for others who may be tempted to disobey our orders.”

Second Leader Torrel shifted his eyes to the First Leader. “What have we told the Originators about our ships being in their territory?”

“Nothing yet,” replied Fehnral. “The search of all of the Originator galaxies should be finished shortly. We have told our stealthed ships to increase their caution and to do everything they can to remain undetected.”

“The Originators are not like other races,” pointed out Second Leader Tarmal. “They have an intelligence nearly equal to our own. If they detect one or two more of our ships they will realize we are searching for something and might very well be able to determine what that is.”

“If they complain again I will tell them it was a mistake one of our field commanders made and he accidentally ordered a survey of Originator galaxies. I will tell him I had the orders rescinded and there will be no further incidents.”

“Subterfuge,” said Second Leader Tallard approvingly. “It might buy us the time we need to find the Human and Alton homeworlds.”

“Once those worlds are found is our fleet ready to attack?” asked Second Leader Queexel.

“Our fleets are gathered and ready,” reported Second Leader Abross. “We shall attack in overwhelming force, annihilating any fleets or defenses the Humans or Altons may have.”

“Will this affect our expansion into other galaxies?”

First Leader Fehnral looked at Queexel. “No, the Originators are only providing token resistance in most of the galaxies we’re currently bringing into the Empire.”

“What about Galaxy X-7294?” queried Queexel. “I understand we’re facing major resistance from an Originator fleet in that galaxy.”

“We are and that fleet has the ship with the blue energy spheres which are deadly to our ships,” replied Fehnral. “So far we have not been able to destroy it. This is the only galaxy the Originators seem determined to keep from us. We have dispatched additional fleet units to deal with the situation.”

“We need to capture that ship if possible,” stated Second Leader Tallard. “Our scientists have not been able to duplicate the science behind the blue energy spheres. We also have not been able to locate a large enough source of dark matter to duplicate their dark energy cannons or missiles.”

“However, we can increase the destructive power of our antimatter missiles to offset the Originator’s dark matter missiles,” said Second Leader Queexel.

First Leader Fehnral looked around the large table at the gathered leaders of the Eternals. “It is our duty as Eternals to conquer and rule the galaxies of this universe. We must destroy the Humans and the Altons who stand in our way. Once that has been done it will be a simple matter to isolate and quarantine all the Shrieels inhabited by the Originators.”

“What do we know of the population of the Shrieels?” asked Second Leader Tarmal. “How many Originators are there? We had assumed at one time they had all died from the plague.”

Fehnral had only recently received detailed reports of what had been found in the small star cluster where some Originators had been in cryo sleep. The report had been disturbing. “We must assume the Originator AIs have managed to find a cure for the plague. We currently estimate there are at a minimum a few hundred thousand living Originators. That number may be as high as one million. We cannot find out since we do not have access to any of the Shrieels.”

“One million,” replied Second Leader Tarmal, his eyes widening. “With that many and their technology they can easily begin repopulating all the Shrieels. While it will take centuries, their numbers may eventually grow large enough for them to become a threat even without the Humans and the Altons.”

“We’ll deal with that when the time comes,” replied Fehnral. “At the moment we know it is too costly to even attempt to capture a Shrieel. The defensive and offensive weapons they are equipped with prevent us from going that route.”

“Then our current plans are to locate the Human and Alton worlds and destroy them. Once that is done we quarantine the Shrieels and take over all the galaxies in Originator space,” said Second Leader Nolant.

Fehnral nodded. “That is the plan. We will conduct our future expansion operations with that in mind.”

The meeting ended with each Eternal returning to his duties. Fehnral remained in the council chamber wondering about the Humans and the Altons. When they were finally found, just how easy was defeating them going to be?

-

In Galaxy X-7294 Commander Zafron gazed at the tactical display at the growing number of red threat icons.

“This fleet is much larger than the last,” reported Kazak. “The Eternals seem determined to maintain their grip on this galaxy.”

“Rear Admiral Mann is requesting orders,” reported Captain Franklyn.

“Prepare to engage,” ordered Commander Zafron in a steady voice. “We need a decisive victory to enable us to take control of this galaxy. What are the numbers on the opposing fleet?”

Kazak checked the sensors one more time to verify the numbers. “We’ll be facing 3,214 Eternal battlecruisers.”

Zafron’s own fleet numbered six hundred dreadnoughts and four thousand battlecruisers. Rear Admiral Mann’s fleet was of the same size. That should give them a comfortable margin in firepower even though the Eternal battlecruisers were larger. “Take us in. Let’s drive the Eternals out of this galaxy once and for all!”

Commander Zafron shifted his gaze to the main viewscreen, which covered three walls of the Command Center. In front of them were a myriad of Eternal warships. All battle damage to the Dominator had been repaired over the last few months. Now it was time to see how well those repairs would hold up in battle. A group of AI battlecruisers had been assigned to stay close to the flagship to ensure the Eternals didn’t try to ram the ship again. Several other defensive measures had been initiated by Kazak to prevent such a possibility.

“Enemy contact in two minutes,” reported Captain Grayson.

“All weapons are online and ready to fire,” reported Major Donaldson. Donaldson could fire all of the ship’s weapons except the blue energy spheres, which were under Kazak’s direct control.

“Rear Admiral Mann’s fleet is moving in from our left flank,” added Captain Grayson.

Commander Zafron nodded. They were going to put the Eternals in a pincer movement and crush the enemy fleet between them.

-

 Rear Admiral Hailey Mann was in her command chair on board her flagship, the Victory.

“The fleet is at Condition One and we’re closing with the enemy,” reported Commander Sutherland. “Enemy contact in one minute.”

“We’ll hit them with a full wave of dark matter missiles as well as antimatter missiles,” ordered Hailey. “Then we will close to pointblank range and hammer them with our dark energy and antimatter cannons. Battlecruisers are to support and provide covering fire for the dreadnoughts.”

The fleet was in an open cone formation with the Victory at the center. Hailey wanted to hit the Eternals as hard and fast as possible. It was the surest way to victory.

Hailey could feel the tension building in the Command Center as they closed with the Eternal fleet. This would be the first major battle since the Dominator was damaged. It would also be her first major battle under the command of Commander Zafron.

“Dominator is firing,” reported Captain Adams from his sensor console.

On the main viewscreen, a stream of blue energy spheres appeared heading toward the Eternal fleet. The Eternals tried to shoot them down but their energy beams were absorbed by the spheres. Moments later the blue spheres began to strike Eternal energy screens. Hailey knew the spheres would first absorb all the energy in the screen and then attach themselves to the ship hulls. Once attached to the hulls, the energy of the spheres would begin turning the hull material and eventually the entire Eternal warship into black space dust. Once a ship was struck, it was doomed.

“All ships are firing,” reported Commander Sutherland.

On the viewscreen, brilliant explosions of light suddenly appeared across the front of the Eternal formation.

“Eternals are returning fire,” reported Captain Adams. “Detecting large numbers of antimatter missile launches.”

“Brace for impacts,” ordered Hailey as she prepared herself. She felt her pulse racing as the battle began in earnest.

-

Both fleets were attempting to intercept the fast moving missiles with their defensive energy turrets but in most cases were failing. However, with thousands of missiles being launched hundreds were being intercepted. The space between the two fleets was lit up with small explosions indicating destroyed missiles.

The Originator battlecruisers turned broadside and opened fire with their main batteries, quickly scoring several hits with their antimatter beams and energy turrets. Missiles flew from their tubes, striking the Eternal ships.

Particle beam fire from the battlecruisers slammed into the main part of an Eternal warship setting off massive explosions and hurling glowing debris into space. The ship seemed to falter as its energy screen went through a cascade of colors as it began to fail even more. Several antimatter missiles arrived, turning the stricken ship into a miniature nova.

The lower section of an Eternal ship exploded and wreckage started drifting away from the ship. Several internal explosions split the ship in two. Both sections were then riddled with antimatter beams killing all Eternals still alive.

The entire forward section of the Eternal fleet was covered in explosions attempting to knock energy screens down. Whenever a screen failed, the ship died almost immediately from the sheer volume of weapons fire being poured into the Eternal fleet.

-

Hailey gripped the armrests of her command chair as the Victory shook violently. The ship’s energy shields were being stressed by the impact of Eternal antimatter missiles. Her eyes wandered to the damage control console where a few amber lights were blinking ominously. So far the ship had only suffered a few scorch marks to the hull.

“The Kingston is under heavy attack!” called out Captain Adams. “Her shields are about to fail.”

“Have several battlecruisers move in front of the Kingston to take off some of the pressure,” ordered Hailey, leaning forward in her command chair.

The main viewscreen changed to show the dreadnought. Its energy screen was lit up as if it was on fire. The ship was still firing its weapons but occasionally an Eternal energy beam would penetrate the shield, striking the hull. Several large glowing rents were visible. Hailey could imagine the activity inside as the crew fought to bring the damage under control.

“Have the Athens and Cambridge close with the Kingston,” ordered Hailey.

There was a sudden bright flash of light and the rear quarter of the dreadnought vanished. Instantly the fluttering energy screen collapsed completely, leaving the surviving section of the vessel open to attack. The Eternals didn’t hesitate as energy beams made short work of what was left of the ship, leaving a riddled and lifeless hulk drifting in space.

“No power readings,” reported Captain Adams, staring solemnly at Hailey. “She’s dead.”

Hailey felt her heart pounding in her chest. She blinked her eyes and turned her attention to the rest of the battle. Ships on both sides were dying. Her job was to make sure most of those doing the dying were Eternal vessels. “Continue to close the distance.”

“Firing gravitonic cannons,” said Major Marks as she pressed a glowing icon on her computer console.

-

The admiral in charge of the Eternal fleet shook his head at the audacity of the Originators and their Human partners. The Eternals would never surrender this galaxy regardless of how many ships the enemy committed to taking this galaxy for their own. If necessary more fleets would be sent to drive the Originators out.

“Enemy fleets are closing,” reported Second Commander Anston. “Our fleet is suffering heavy damage.”

“The Originators?” asked Admiral Qurant.

“The same. However, we are losing ships at a two to one rate compared to the enemy. Their dark matter missiles and dark energy beams are more than offsetting the power of our energy beams and antimatter missiles.”

The ship shuddered violently and several alarms began sounding. For a brief moment the lights flickered and then returned to normal.

“Dark matter energy beam strike to the bow,” reported Second Commander Anston. “We’ve lost two of our bow antimatter cannons and one of our missile tubes. We have several compartments open to space.”

Admiral Qurant thought furiously of what he should do. Even with the help his nanites gave him to think clearly and logically, he could not see a viable solution to win this battle. “We will continue to engage the enemy and cause as much damage to their fleets as possible. Once that has been accomplished we will make the jump into hyperspace and withdraw. It will be necessary to contact the Council of Eternals and request a larger fleet be sent to this galaxy.”

“As you command,” responded Second Commander Anston. “I will have the fleet concentrate on the larger warships. I don’t believe there are any living crewmembers on the battlecruisers. The Originators and Humans will be on the dreadnoughts.”

“Do so,” replied Admiral Qurant. “We are the Eternals and it is our destiny to rule. This battle only delays this galaxy’s entry into our Empire for a short time.”

-

The intensity of the battle increased as the opposing fleets drew into pointblank range. Antimatter and dark matter explosions lit up the forward sections of the fleets. Energy beams of various types flashed back and forth seeking weaknesses in energy shields. Occasionally one would be found and a ship would explode or be riddled with weapons fire. In some instances ships were turned into miniature novas as dark matter missiles or antimatter missiles destroyed them. The battle was intense and unrelenting with both sides trying to destroy the other.

-

The Victory shook violently as alarms began sounding on the damage control console.

“Multiple energy beam strikes to the bow,” reported Commander Sutherland as the lights dimmed and stayed that way.

“All power is being shunted to the energy screen,” called out Major Marks. “Screen is holding at 68 percent.”

“Battlecruisers 234, 336, 513 and 811 are moving in to help take some of the pressure off us,” added Commander Sutherland. “The Eternals seem to be concentrating their fire on our dreadnoughts.”

Several massive explosions of light on the main viewscreen indicated dying ships.

“We just lost the Justin, Hermes, Tripoli, and Fury,” reported Captain Adams. “Other ships are taking major damage.”

“Continue to fire on the Eternals,” ordered Hailey as she gripped the armrests on her command chair. “They are losing ships at a much faster rate than we are.” It pained her to see her dreadnoughts being destroyed. They were her crewed vessels and she knew brave men and women were dying.

“More inbound missiles!” yelled Captain Adams as brilliant blasts of light covered the viewscreen. “Many of them are targeting us.”

“Hold on!” warned Captain Sutherland, preparing for the impacts.

The ship began shaking and then there was a loud explosion. Several consoles exploded, sending showers of hot sparks across the Command Center. People were screaming and yelling out commands as the Command Center descended into chaos.

Hailey saw and felt Commandeer Sutherland suddenly reach over and slap the harness release across her chest and then jerk her out of the command chair. At the same moment a large metal structural beam fell, crushing the chair and striking Hailey in the left shoulder. Hailey fell to the deck stunned and in pain.

-

“Ship status!” yelled Commander Sutherland as he stood back up on shaky legs. There was a large jagged cut on his right arm where the falling beam had struck him. Blood was dripping down onto the deck.

“Shield is at 15 percent and dropping,” reported Major Marks as her hands flew over her console. “Main power seems to be out and we’re running on secondaries. I’m trying to re-initiate the shield. It’s going to take a minute or two.”

“We don’t have a minute or two,” replied Commander Sutherland as he looked around the smoke filled Command Center. Red lights were flashing and alarms were sounding on numerous consoles. Rear Admiral Mann seemed to be in shock and was still lying where he had pushed her.

“We have fires out of control near Engineering and Life Support,” reported the damage control officer. “I’m trying to get repair crews to those areas but there’s a lot of wreckage.”

“Caria, pull us back so we can get some of this damage under control,” ordered Commander Sutherland. In the distance, he could hear several secondary explosions. There was no doubt the Victory was heavily damaged and might even have to be abandoned. “Also, summon additional medical personnel to the Command Center; we have quite a few injured.” Sutherland looked over at Rear Admiral Mann who was now sitting on the floor leaning up against the command console where a med tech was examining her. She had a look of intense pain in her eyes.

“How’s the ship?” she managed to get out.

“Still holding together, but barely,” replied Sutherland. “We’re pulling back to try to get some of the damage under control.” He just hoped the Eternals didn’t hit the Victory again before she reached safety. All it would take would be one antimatter missile and the ship would be toast.

The lights suddenly brightened and then went out completely. After a moment the emergency lighting flicked on. What now, wondered Sutherland. The situation seemed to be going from bad to worse.

“Secondary power has failed,” reported Major Marks. “Fires have cut the power lines. I’m trying to work my way around it. We’re operating on battery power at the moment.”

The ship shuddered again from another explosion somewhere in its interior. “Caria, did we get away from the combat area?” Sutherland knew if they didn’t, the ship wouldn’t survive much longer.

“Yes, sir,” Caria replied. “But just barely.”

“We have six battlecruisers shielding us,” reported Caption Adams. “My sensors are working on short-range only. We’re on the extreme edge of the fighting.”

The main hatch opened and emergency medical personnel flooded into the Command Center. Several went immediately to Rear Admiral Mann to help the med tech who was administering medical treatment to her arm.

The lights suddenly came back on and several of the consoles which had been down lit back up with power.

“I have rerouted the secondary power,” reported Major Marks with relief in her eyes. “Energy shield is at 20 percent and that’s the best I can do with the power we have available.”

“Message from the Dominator,” reported Lieutenant Sparks. “We’re to stay back until the battle is over. Commander Zafron is taking over command of both fleets.”

“Acknowledge the order and transmit to all of our ships that Commander Zafron is taking command until further notice,” ordered Commander Sutherland.

“Can we save the ship?” asked Rear Admiral Mann. She was standing with the aid of a med tech. Her arm was in a protective sling.

Commander Sutherland looked over at damage control.

“Most of the fires are out but we have a lot of hull and internal damage. At the moment the hyperdrive and sublight drive are both down. The chief engineer says it will take about four hours to get the hyperdrive back up and operational. We’ll have minimal sublight in about another hour.”

-

The main viewscreen suddenly came back to life. They could still see the battle raging in front of them. The Dominator was in the middle of it, devastating Eternal vessels with the ship’s blue energy spheres. Glowing and burning wreckage was everywhere but dying out quickly from lack of oxygen. The space around the front of both fleets seemed to be on fire from the continuous explosions of antimatter and dark matter missiles. Small nova-like flashes of light indicated dying ships on both sides.

Hailey winced when she moved her broken arm. The med tech had given her a painkiller which helped. She needed to get down to the med bay and have her arm reset. With Originator medical technology, she would be as good as new in a few hours. She saw several of her command crew being carried out on stretchers. Looking at her command chair, she saw it was completely crushed by the structural beam that had fallen. If Commander Sutherland hadn’t pulled her to safety there was no doubt she would have died.

-

On the Dominator Commander Zafron was relieved to hear the Victory was safe. He ordered two dreadnoughts and six battlecruisers to see to its continued protection. “What is the status of the Eternal fleet?”

“They are starting to fall back,” replied Kazak as he fired another wave of blue energy spheres at four nearby Eternal battlecruisers. In another few minutes all four ships would be reduced to black space dust. “We’ve eliminated over half of their fleet and their ship losses are now at the rate of three of theirs to every one we lose. Probability of our victory is at 96 percent.”

“Enemy ships are beginning to enter hyperspace,” reported Captain Grayson. “They’re leaving!”

“Continue to fire on them until they’re all either destroyed or have made the transition into hyperspace,” ordered Commander Zafron in a cold and uncompromising voice. The anti-life deserved no mercy and would get none from him.

The battle quickly wound down and soon the last Eternal vessel was destroyed. For the first time in many long minutes no explosions were taking place.

“Secure from Condition One and go to Condition Two,” ordered Commander Zafron. “For the time being this galaxy is ours. I intend to move one of the battlestations here and use it as a base to hold this galaxy.”

Zafron knew the fighting was far from over. No doubt the Eternals would send more ships to try to push the Originators out of the galaxy. With the battlestation in place, it would make it that much more difficult for the Eternals to accomplish.

-

Rear Admiral Hailey Mann was in the med bay where her arm was being healed. She was busy studying a computer pad listing the damage to the ship. It was obvious her flagship was going to spend at least a good month in a repair bay. Leaning back on her pillow she closed her eyes. They finally had a victory against the Eternals in this galaxy. She knew of Commander Zafron’s plan to use one of the forty-kilometer battlestations as a major base so they could hold the galaxy. Once the battlestation was in place, six fleet bases would be built around the galaxy to respond to any Eternal incursions. Once all of that was done, it would be time to move on to the next galaxy. This was like draining the ocean one drop at a time. While they might have taken control of this galaxy there were thousands of others waiting ahead of them where more battles would have to be fought. It was a war which might never end.

Chapter Eight

Jeremy was in the Command Center of the New Horizon. The data from the preliminary scans of the satellite galaxy they were orbiting were in. Originator scientists along with their AIs and Human counterparts had chosen twenty stars for the first survey. All should be capable of harboring life.

“We’ll send out the New Horizon and four other exploration dreadnoughts,” said Jeremy to Rear Admiral Barnes. “Each will be accompanied by ten dreadnoughts and twenty battlecruisers. Our other ships will remain here until the initial survey is completed. Once that’s finished we’ll do a more detailed survey of the satellite galaxy before moving on to the main galaxy.”

Rear Admiral Barnes looked thoughtful. “How many systems do we want to explore in the smaller galaxy?”

“Depends on what our initial survey finds. It would be nice if we can find some space going races who will aid us against the Eternals. If we could unite this cluster of galaxies and satellite galaxies against the Eternals, it would be a pretty good roadblock against their future expansion.”

Kathryn nodded. “As long as the Eternals don’t realize what we’re doing.”

“Not to mention as far out as we are the technology we encounter in these galaxies might be considerably different from what we’re used to,” added Kelsey. She could hardly wait to begin exploring; it was what she had designed the New Horizon for. The super exploration dreadnought was equipped with everything imaginable which might be needed for exploration. As well as a number of Altons who were trained in first contact protocols.  The ship also had a very large crew including a considerable number of Originator AIs.

“I have communication buoys ready to deploy when we leave,” added Angela. “It will allow us to coordinate better and keep in constant communication if we find anything important.”

“When do we start?” asked Kathryn. She was ready to begin exploring. She was already missing her father but knew she had a duty to perform just as he did.

Jeremy looked at the ship’s main viewscreen, which was focused on the satellite galaxy. It was a beautiful and awe inspiring sight since they were so close to it. It would take only a few days’ travel in normal hyperspace to reach the periphery of the small galaxy. “Tomorrow we’ll set out. We’ll give ourselves two weeks for the initial survey and then meet back here to go over the results.”

Kelsey nodded. “That should be sufficient. Do we initiate any first contacts in this initial survey?”

“I’d prefer not to,” Jeremy replied. “Let’s just scan the systems and gather as much data as possible. If we find a race or races we feel should be contacted we’ll send the Altons out with a small military escort to do so. We don’t want to frighten any potential allies.”

“Two weeks should be sufficient with five search groups,” replied Kelsey. “We can also take more observations while we’re in the satellite galaxy to determine future targets of exploration.”

“We have full communications with the Communications and Transport Hub with only minimal delay,” Kathryn informed Jeremy. “We also have the first Accelerator Ring nearly ready.” The Accelerator Ring would be necessary if they needed to return back to the hub. Without it the trip back would take well over a year.

Jeremy looked at Kathryn and nodded. Then his face took on a more serious look. “The latest reports indicate the Eternals may be searching for Earth. The Originator Council is already making plans to help defend the Human Federation of Worlds as well as the Alton worlds. Large numbers from both are to be evacuated to the Dyson sphere in the home galaxy and then later to our Dyson sphere at the hub.”

Kathryn looked concerned. “Can Earth survive an attack by the Eternals?” She hated to think Earth might be destroyed. While it was true there were other Human colonies, particularly in the old Human Federation of Worlds, it was difficult to think about. Earth was the cradle of Human life.

Angela stepped over closer to the three. It was her duty shift at Communications. “Do you think it will get as bad as that?”

Jeremy nodded. “No doubt the Eternals feel by eliminating the Humans and the Altons it will give them complete control of the war.”

“But there are already over one hundred million Humans, Altons and Carethians on the Dyson sphere.”

“Yes, but look at how many people we need to operate the battlestations and dreadnoughts. We could easily put one hundred million people doing just that. As it is we’re operating the dreadnoughts and battlestations with minimal crews and the battlecruisers with AIs only.”

Angela frowned but nodded her head in understanding. “This war is so costly. Is it ever going to end?”

“That’s why we’re here,” answered Jeremy. “If we can find allies in these galaxies we might be able to control the Eternals’ expansion. It will be difficult but it’s the only way.”

Angela shook her head. “This won’t stop the fighting. Surely as smart as the Originators and their AIs are they can come up with something to bring this war to an end.”

“They’ve working on it,” replied Jeremy. “So far they’ve come up empty. Until they do we have to figure on fighting a conventional space war against the Eternals for as long as necessary.”

“Millions more will die,” proclaimed Angela with a sad look in her eyes. “It all seems so pointless.”

“There are many Originator scientists working long shifts at the science stations at the Communications and Transport Hub seeking a solution,” said Arian. “Our AIs are working also and they are tireless.”

“We will find a solution,” proclaimed Camlin with confidence. “We found a cure for the plague and we will find a solution to the Eternals as well.”

Angela looked over at Kelsey. “I was so hoping our children would not be faced with war when they grow older. I don’t want to see them become entrapped in this conflict.”

“That’s years away yet,” relied Kelsey, understanding Angela’s concern. She felt much the same way. “Perhaps by the time our children become adults the war will be over.”

“The Dyson spheres are safe,” Kathryn reminded them. “With the defenses being added those who live inside will be safe from the war. Keep in mind the Originators control over six hundred galaxies around those Dyson spheres. All of those galaxies have massive Originator bases, which are even now being reinforced with the forty-kilometer battlestations. I don’t believe this war will go on forever. I feel confident it will end sometime during our lifetimes.”

“I hope so,” replied Angela. “It would be nice to be able to stay on the Dyson sphere for long periods of time and not have to worry about the war. I know Clair is already asking questions about it.”

Kelsey laughed. “Clair thinks she’s in charge of the children. She’s the oldest and she’s accepted that responsibility. It amazes me sometimes how the others listen to her and how well behaved they act in class.”

“It’s Clarissa,” explained Angela. “The children are very careful not to misbehave when she’s around. If they do they’re assigned extra schoolwork.”

Jeremy had to smile. “That would have worked on me when I was younger too.”

Jeremy knew since Clarissa was assigned to the New Horizon, she had taken it upon herself to see to the children’s education. While still technically toddlers they were already learning subjects normally reserved for teenagers. He suspected their childhood was going to be very different from what was considered the Human norm.

-

Clarissa had the children in the special classroom, which had been designed by the Originators at her request. Each of the five sat at a small desk specifically designed for them. The top of the desk was an interactive touch computer screen. The children wore a small, silvery metallic looking ring around their heads, which could be used to transmit data directly into their brains. It also allowed them to interact with the interactive desktop during their lessons without the need for a neural implant.

“Tell us a story,” demanded Jason, staring at Clarissa. “Tell us about the early days of the Federation.”

Clarissa turned her attention to Jason. The child was always rebelling against doing his class work. He would much rather listen to her tell them stories about the early days of the Human Federation of Worlds and how Ariel had been found on Earth’s moon.

“We need to concentrate on our class work,” said Clair, frowning at Jason. “Clarissa can tell us a story when we’re finished.”

Jason turned to look at Clair, shaking his head. “I don’t like studying. It’s more fun to listen to a story.”

“If you don’t behave I’m going to tell your mom you’re not listening to Clarissa and doing your lessons.”

“You wouldn’t dare,” said Jason, his eyes widening and glaring at Clair. She was always trying to tell him what to do.

“Why don’t we study for a few more minutes and then I’ll tell you a story about the survivors of the old Human Federation of Worlds and their lives inside Ceres? It’s a story I’ve never told you before.”

Jason had a triumphant look in his eyes as he stared at Clair. “See, we’re going to get to hear a story.”

Clair did not reply. At least they were going to study some more before Clarissa told them the story.

-

Clarissa continued to teach them the day’s lessons. She was glad she had a lot of patience or Jason would surely push her to the edge. She wondered how actual Human teachers dealt with such situations. The problem was the type of education the five children were learning and the methods being used to teach them had never been done with Human children before.

The silver ring the children wore could imprint data into their minds but they would not understand it. It would seem like a jumble of nonsense. However, the lessons Clarissa was teaching helped to disseminate the information into something the children could understand. Several Originator teachers and psychologists had helped Clarissa design the teaching lessons she was giving to the children. Many of the lessons were the same ones Originator children were being taught. Her only problem was Angela; she thought the children were learning too much too quickly.

-

Kevin stepped into the classroom. Angela had asked him to check up on the children and Clarissa. She still didn’t quite trust Clarissa about what she was teaching the children and the beautiful AI had to submit her planned classroom lessons to Angela ahead of time. This had started when Angela stepped into Clair’s bedroom one night and heard her repeating hyperspace equations in her sleep. Angela had met with several Altons as well as Originators to make sure Clarissa wasn’t ruining Clair’s childhood. The Altons and the Originators had explained to Angela there was nothing abnormal in how Clarissa was teaching the children. Teaching tactics like this had been used by both of the older races for thousands of years.

Kevin stood at the back of the room listening. His children, Mathew and Elizabeth, were both paying attention while Jason seemed to be fiddling with the top of his interactive computer desk. Kevin had to grin. Jason was a lot like Jeremy and very seldom did what was expected. Stepping back outside the classroom Kevin looked at the two large heavily armed Bears who stood nearby. The Bears were part of Kelsey’s personal guard. Pack Leader Belal was in charge of the forty Bears on board the ship, which served as part of the New Horizon’s security detachment. Normally wherever Kelsey or any of the children were a Bear or two were present. It was something Kevin was getting used to.

Kevin paused outside the classroom trying to decide what to do next. He had to report back to the Avenger in the morning. He was feeling a little hungry and there was a good cafeteria in this section. The cook had some interesting hamburger recipes. With a smile, Kevin decided to have a hamburger and fries before meeting up with his wife later.

-

Kelsey was sitting next to Andram and Arian discussing the star systems the New Horizon was going to explore.

“K-Class and G-Class have the best chance of harboring life similar to ours,” said Andram as he studied the indicated stars on his computer screen.

“True, but we’ve discovered life in nearly every type of environment imaginable,” added Arian. “On worlds of stars you would never believe could harbor intelligent life somehow it manages to evolve.”

Andram nodded. “Your people have a much vaster experience than my own. We’ve been pretty limited to our own home galaxy. I’ve seen many of the animal exhibits on the Dyson spheres. They’re pretty impressive.”

“We tried to gather different species from many of our explorations. Over 20 percent of all living space on a Shrieel is dedicated to preserving those species.”

“I’ve seen actual dinosaurs in one of the habitats,” commented Kelsey. “It was very exciting.”

“At the hub there is a computer catalogue of all the animals in the habitats on the different Shrieels,” explained Arian. “Our AIs have done a fabulous job maintaining the animals and their habitats over the years.”

“Are there plans to add more animals?” asked Andram.

“Possibly, if the war against the Eternals is ever settled. There are over two hundred Shrieels which is more room than our combined races will ever need. It would be relatively easy to add additional habitats suitable for more species. It is a project I would enjoy immensely. There may come a time in the far future where we will even construct more Shrieels. We still have the technology if we feel the need.”

Kelsey nodded. She would like to see some videos of how they captured and transported the dinosaurs. She suspected it would be highly entertaining. “We have five star systems to investigate. I would like to spend some time in each one regardless of whether they contain any intelligent life or not. A good study of the makeup of those systems should tell us much about this section of the universe.”

“I suspect it will be similar to our own,” replied Arian. “While there are theories about multiple universes existing side by side like giant bubbles, the natural laws in each are probably unique. I don’t think we will discover anything shocking in our explorations.”

Kelsey nodded. “Well, I can tell you the first time I saw a Dyson sphere it was a shocking experience. It was for all of us.”

“But you knew building something like a Shrieel was possible,” pointed out Arian. “While it might have seemed fantastic to you at the time you recognized it as a feat of advanced technology.”

“We did,” confessed Andram. “My own people have discussed building a Dyson sphere in the past. We’ve just never amassed the resources to commit to such a project.”

Arian nodded. “That’s what I mean. Whatever we discover will be a result of technology we can at least understand in part. The natural laws which govern our universe predict that.”

“This is a K-2 type star,” said Kelsey, pointing toward the star map she had up on a screen. “I would suggest we start our exploration there. It’s also close to the edge of the satellite galaxy so if we needed to withdraw it will be relatively easy.”

“I agree,” said Arian as he examined information on the star. “It will be a good place to start.”

-

The three talked for a few more minutes and then Kelsey left the Command Center. As soon as she walked through the hatch two Bears fell in behind her. She had gotten used to the security escort that followed her wherever she went. She tried to talk Belal out of the constant security but he had ignored her, pointing out he was responsible for her security as well as that of the children. After that Kelsey just ignored her security. At least they tried to stay as discreet as possible. If you could call a seven-foot tall Bear discreet. They were sort of hard to miss.

She made her way to the center section of the ship and the classroom where the children would be waiting. By this time Clarissa would be reading them a story. What the children considered to be stories were actually the early history of the Human Federation of Worlds. Clarissa had a way of telling the stories which totally enthralled the children.

Stepping inside the classroom, she saw Angela and Katie were both there talking to Clarissa. Angela was frowning and shaking her head. As Kelsey got closer she could hear what Angela was saying.

“I just think we’re moving too fast with their education. I mean the children are learning things I didn’t even learn in high school.”

“I agree,” said Katie. “If we don’t watch it the children are going to miss out on their childhood. Why, just the other night I came home to find the twins putting molecules together from a science kit and arguing over which one had done it right.”

Clarissa looked chagrined as she did not know how to respond. Kelsey felt sorry for the AI who had been such a big part of their lives. Clarissa had devoted her life to the Special Five and now their children.

“I think Clarissa is doing a wonderful job,” Kelsey said, joining her friends. “It can’t be easy trying to teach the children with the educational techniques we now have available. I think the problem is you’re judging what Clarissa is doing against how we were taught at that age. I was born on Ceres and I can tell you my early education was far different from what was being taught on Earth. I think the same is true here. You must realize back on the Dyson sphere at the hub all children are being taught with these new methods. It’s the only way for them to learn Originator science and how to use their technology. What we take as abnormal now will be the norm in a few more years.”

Katie still looked worried. “I just don’t want the kids to miss out on their childhood.”

Before Kelsey could answer she heard Clair scream at Jason who had just tackled her and was trying to pin her to the floor. “I don’t think we need to worry about that.” Kelsey hurried over and pulled Jason off Clair. While Clair was a little bit bigger Jason was slightly stronger.

“I won!” yelled Jason, trying to squirm out of Kelsey’s arms. “I told her I could out wrestle her.”

Kelsey looked over at Angela and Katie. “Still think we’re going to miss out on their childhood?”

“Guess not,” Angela said as she came over and helped Clair to her feet.

“I’ll get even!” snorted Clair, her eyes hot with anger. “I won’t help you with your homework!”

“Wait,” said Jason as he stopped squirming. “I didn’t mean to hurt you. I’m sorry.” He disliked doing homework and Clair normally helped him with the harder parts.

Clair glared at Jason for a full minute before her face broke back into a satisfied grin. “You carry my books for the next week and I’ll forgive you.”

Jason looked at his mother and then back at Clair. “Okay, but only if you help me with my homework.”

“Deal,” said Clair, extending her hand.

Jason shook it and promptly went to help Clair gather up her schoolbooks as well as computer pad.

“Children,” laughed Katie. “Mad one minute and best friends the next.”

“I wonder if we were ever like that?” said Kelsey.

“Jeremy was,” answered Katie. “Remember, I grew up around him when I was a teenager.”

Kelsey nodded. That had been so long ago she had forgotten, back before they all went to the Fleet Academy on the Moon. “Sometime you need to tell me about those days.”

Katie’s eyes widened. “Jeremy made me promise never to speak of them.”

Kelsey grinned. This sounded interesting. “Let’s get the kids home. Tomorrow we set out on our first exploration mission.”

-

Clarissa watched as the three moms left with the children. Sometimes she felt flustered with the children. She knew they were still very young and sometimes their age showed in some of their antics. With a deep sigh, she decided to go visit Ariel. Ariel was busy over on the Avenger and it had been awhile since Clarissa had been over to the flagship. She could use one of her holograms but she preferred to visit in person when possible. She wanted to talk to Ariel about the children. Clarissa wanted Ariel’s opinion as to whether she was doing what was right teaching them using advanced Alton and Originator methods.

-

Jeremy was in their quarters waiting for Kelsey to finish putting Jason to bed. He had arranged for a candlelight dinner just for the two of them. One of the ship’s stewards had just finished delivering the food while Kelsey was busy with Jason.

Kelsey came back into the dining room and her face lit up with a smile when she saw the food. On her plate was a steak cooked just as she liked it as well as a fresh salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. A steaming basket of rolls was there as well.

“Buttering me up for later,” she said coyly as she sat down.

Jeremy grinned as he buttered a role. “Maybe. This might be our last night together for a few weeks.”

Kelsey poured some salad dressing over her salad and took a bite of a tomato. “These taste wonderful. Where did they come from?”

“We have a small hydroponics compartment on the Avenger where one of our cooks grows fresh vegetables. I asked for the tomatoes and cucumbers. He was more than happy to provide them.”

Kelsey nodded as she continued eating. She was surprised by how hungry she was. For the next twenty minutes she enjoyed her meal, stopping occasionally to talk to Jeremy about Jason and the other kids.

“I don’t think their education is going to be a problem. No matter how much they learn they’re still just children,” commented Jeremy. “To me they are still acting like children and I suspect no matter what they learn that’s not going to change.”

Kelsey knew Jeremy was right. After they finished eating Kelsey cleaned up the dishes and then took a long, hot shower. She put a little perfume in all the right places and then joined Jeremy in bed. If they were going to be separated for a few weeks she was going to take advantage of tonight. She settled into Jeremy’s arms as he turned and kissed her. A few moments later they were lost in each other’s bodies and weren’t the least bit concerned about the passage of time.

Chapter Nine

The New Horizon dropped out of hyperspace in the outer region of the K-2 Class star system they were going to scan. A K-type main-sequence star had a long and stable lifespan making it ideal for life to develop on its planets, especially if there were suitable planets in the Goldilocks Zone. This particular star was a light orange in color with a mass slightly less than the star in Earth’s solar system.

“Status?” asked Rear Admiral Barnes as the ship came to a halt and its sensors began reaching out across the system for a detailed scan. They had already performed long-range scans so they knew there were planets in the system.

“All systems are operational,” replied Clarissa.

“Ship is at Condition Two,” reported Kelsey.

“Initiating scans,” added Captain Reynolds.

“The Avenger and the rest of our support fleet?”

“Just outside the system,” replied Kelsey. The heavily armed ships were staying just outside the system so as not to spook any possible inhabitants.

-

For several long minutes the ship scanned the entire system in detail. Asteroids, comets, moons, planets, and even the icy proto-planets on the periphery of the star system.

When the scans were finished Captain Reynolds turned with a disappointed look toward Rear Admiral Barnes. “All scans are negative for intelligent life or active power systems. However, there seems to be considerable wreckage in orbit around the third and fourth planets of the system. It appears to be artificial in nature.”

“Can you clarify that?” asked Kathryn, growing a little concerned.

“The wreckage is what would be expected of destroyed spacecraft, satellites, and possibly a space station or two,” reported Camlin as she studied the sensor readings. “We would have to move the ship closer for confirmation.”

A chill passed over Kathryn. What had they just stumbled into?

“If we’re entering a war zone we should call in the Avenger,” suggested Kelsey, feeling very uneasy about the situation. “Remember, we have children on board.”

“And our weapons are even more powerful than the Avengers,” replied Kathryn. “However, you’re right. This appears to be a military situation. We’ll send a message to Fleet Admiral Strong requesting he jump his support ships to our location and then we’ll proceed deeper into the system. If someone destroyed this system I want to know who it was and what exactly happened here.”

“I don’t believe we’ll be in any danger,” said Clarissa, who was standing directly behind Kelsey. “We’ve detected no active power readings. Whatever happened in this system could be recent or it may have occurred hundreds of years ago.”

“Never-the-less we’ll contact Fleet Admiral Strong just to be on the safe side,” answered Kathryn. Her eyes turned to the tactical display, which was beginning to show numerous wrecks around the two planets. Her eyes widened at seeing how many there were. It looked as if a major battle had been fought in this system.

-

Jeremy listened as Lieutenant Lantz relayed the message from the New Horizon.

“That’s just great!” muttered Kevin, shaking his head. “Have we jumped into the middle of another war?”

“Clarissa thinks whatever happened here may have occurred a long time ago,” replied Jeremy. “Lieutenant Striker, take the task group into hyperspace and put us next to the New Horizon. From there we’ll all move further into the system.”

Aaliss turned toward Jeremy. “I have analyzed some of the data the New Horizon sent of their scans of the wreckage. I have to agree with Clarissa. It appears to me what we have found is an old battleground.”

“I suggest we go to Condition Two just as a precaution,” said Ariel who was standing next to Jeremy. “There may still be some active weapons systems in some of those wrecks.”

Jeremy nodded. “We’ll go to Condition Two as soon as we exit hyperspace near the New Horizon. Then we’ll proceed deeper into the system on our regular sublight drives. I don’t want anything to take us by surprise.”

“May I suggest once we arrive at the New Horizon’s location we send several of our battlecruisers ahead to ensure there is no danger,” said Aaliss. “While there may not be any active power systems registering there may be dormant defenses in the system which might activate upon detecting our ships.”

Jeremy thought about this and then agreed. “Yes, we don’t know what we’re going into. I want to take as many precautions as possible.”

“Ready to enter hyperspace,” reported Lieutenant Striker.

“Take us in,” ordered Jeremy, turning his attention to the large viewscreen that surrounded them.

In front of the Avenger and the other ships of the fleet a swirling blue-white vortex formed. The fleet surged forward, vanishing, to appear only a few minutes later at the location of the New Horizon.

Jeremy breathed out a sigh of relief seeing the large super exploration dreadnought appear on the viewscreen. Now it was time to talk to Rear Admiral Barnes and decide on their next move. Something disastrous had occurred in this system sometime in the past and Jeremy was determined to find out just what that had been. Was the battle which occurred here an isolated case or was it an indication of something much larger? Jeremy wanted to do some investigating and then he would contact the other exploration task groups to see what they had found. Jeremy hoped what was in front of them was an isolated incident.

Lieutenant Striker, take us in toward the inner planets at 60 percent sublight,” ordered Jeremy. “I want continuous scans, particularly for any active power systems which might indicate some type of defense network might still be intact. I’m also sending two battlecruisers ahead of the fleet to ensure we don’t fly into any traps.”

“Sensors are active,” replied Kevin. “Recording data.”

“Lieutenant Lantz, inform the New Horizon to follow us in at a safe distance.”

A few moments later the ten dreadnoughts and twenty battlecruisers accelerated and began heading toward the inner planets of the system. The New Horizon followed shadowing the fleet by twenty thousand kilometers. Two of the battlecruisers pulled ahead of the fleet to operate as an advance scouting mission to ensure the fleet wasn’t heading into danger.

-

“I wonder what happened here,” said Katie as she stared at the viewscreen showing the wreckage in front of the fleet. “There must be hundreds of destroyed ships in front of us.”

“Scans indicate over one thousand destroyed vessels,” Clarissa informed her. “However, they all seem to be of the same type. Whoever did this, the wreckage from their vessels seems to be missing.”

“Unless we’re looking at an internal conflict,” suggested Camlin. “We could be looking at the end result of a war between the third and fourth planets.”

Kelsey looked at the main viewscreen. The ships were all between three hundred to seven hundred meters in length. They were roughly cylindrically shaped with a flared bow and engine compartment. Most of the wrecks were covered with weapon turrets and what appeared to be missile tubes. They all showed major damage. Some were little more than twisted hulks of metal. Others were relatively intact with massive tears in the hulls where compartments had been ripped open and exposed to space.

“It’s like a graveyard,” commented Angela in a subdued voice. “Who could have done this?”

“The damage to the ships was caused by some type of high intensity energy beam,” reported Clarissa as she studied the data coming in from the sensor scans. “There are also indications of explosives such as antimatter being used.”

Kelsey looked over at Rear Admiral Barnes who was watching the viewscreens with a look of concern on her face. “What do you think, Admiral?”

Kathryn shook her head. “This isn’t good. The odds of the first system we explore being full of wreckage from a major space battle is frightening. We need to find out what happened here before we move on.”

“Perhaps we can find out from their computer systems,” suggested Mikow from her computer console. “Surely with as many wrecks as we are observing there have to be some intact computer records.”

Kathryn leaned back in her command chair and let out a deep sigh. “That means we’ll have to board some of those wrecks. As old as those ships might be and as much damage as they’ve suffered it will be dangerous.”

“Let the Originator AIs handle the boarding,” suggested Camlin. “I’ll lead them. We can also take a few of the new combat robots to help clear wreckage if needed. They’re very strong and versatile.”

Kathryn thought about the suggestion, realizing it was a good one and possibly the quickest way to find out what happened here. “Let me speak to Fleet Admiral Strong and see what he thinks. I suspect he will be agreeable.”

-

Jeremy listened as Kathryn explained what Mikow and Camlin had suggested. “Let me get back with you. I want to check out a few things first before I okay such a mission.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair. It would still be another hour before they reached the larger wreckage around the third planet. While he understood Kathryn wanting to use her people to explore one of the unknown ships this was still a military matter since a battle had been fought here.

“Major Weir, contact Major Caulder on the New Horizon. I’m going to need a squad of his Marines as well as six combat robots for a mission.” The New Horizon had the largest Marine complement. It was something Jeremy had insisted on to increase the security of the ship, particularly since children were on board.

“Do you think it’s safe to board one of those vessels?” asked Kevin. He had changed the main viewscreen to show a large warship with minimal damage. The ship was nearly seven hundred meters in length with several large hull ruptures. There were numerous burn marks across its hull.

“I think so,” replied Jeremy. “We’re not detecting any power signatures. Those ships have been dead probably for quite sometime. We may also find some interesting technology on board. Have you completed the scans on the planets?”

Kevin nodded. “Yes, and it’s not good. The third and fourth planets were inhabited at one time. However, there are signs of massive antimatter explosions across the surface of both worlds. There are also indications of detonations on some of the moons and the larger asteroids. Whoever did this pretty much wanted to kill this system and everyone in it.”

“Kevin’s correct,” said Aaliss. “I’ve analyzed what I could of the wreckage. We’re looking at 892 warships of various sizes, another 414 passenger and cargo ships of different types, as well as four large space stations which are now nothing more than drifting wreckage around the two planets. This was a very robust civilization and it was totally destroyed.”

Jeremy let out a deep sigh. “We need to explore the surface of the planets as well as the asteroids and moons.” Jeremy wanted as much information as possible to find out exactly what had happened here. Was this an isolated incident or galaxy wide?

“I would suggest we use AIs and combat robots,” said Aaliss. “We don’t know if there might be some dangerous pathogens in the air on the planets. Whoever did this might have used viruses to eliminate the entire population.”

“Germ warfare,” said Kevin with disgust. “I hope we don’t find that.”

“We have Alton environmental suits on board,” Jeremy responded. “They should keep out any contaminants.”

“I would suggest we go ahead and form teams to explore the wrecks, planets, moons, and asteroids,” said Ariel. “There’s a lot here that needs investigating.”

“Very well,” replied Jeremy. “We’ll keep the fleet at Condition Two until we’re satisfied there’s no danger and then drop our readiness level down to Condition Three.”

“Should we call the other exploration fleets in?” asked Aaliss.

Jeremy shook his head. “No, we need to see what they find. Is this destruction isolated or does it apply to more than one star system?” Jeremy was greatly concerned about what they had found so far. They had come to this small galaxy seeking allies; had they instead found another enemy, one perhaps just as dangerous as the Eternals?

-

Several hours later Kathryn watched as shuttles left the New Horizon. Two were bound for the large wrecked warship and others were heading for the planet. On the main viewscreen, she saw a number of shuttles leave the Avenger heading toward the planet. In the background, the other dreadnoughts and battlecruisers of the small fleet were waiting. So far everything had remained quiet.

“What do you think they’ll find?” asked Angela. There was a lot of communication and speculation across the fleet. She had been listening to it over her comm station.

Kelsey blinked her eyes. “Who knows? We’ll have to figure out their language and learn some of their history before we know for sure what happened here.”

“That won’t be a problem,” said Arian. “Unless the language is of a type we’ve never encountered we have translation software that should be able to break down their language into something we can understand. I just hope enough has survived over time to give us an adequate base to reconstruct their language.”

“Shuttles are nearing their target,” reported Captain Reynolds. “They’ve located a large open hatch which might be a landing bay.”

“Tell them to be careful,” warned Kathryn. “We don’t know what the inside of that ship is like.”

-

Camlin was in the cockpit of the shuttle watching expectantly as it edged into what they believed was a landing bay in the wreck. The shuttle’s large floodlights switched on, lighting up the bay. The inside was in shambles. Several small spacecraft were crumpled on the deck leaving just enough room for the two shuttles from the New Horizon to land.

“We’ve been instructed to stay inside the shuttle until Captain Barkley has disembarked with his Marines and combat robots,” reported the pilot who was another AI.

Camlin nodded. While she was an AI and not that worried about being harmed she did prefer to take all the necessary precautions.

Looking out the large cockpit window, she watched as the hatch in the other shuttle opened and six heavily armed combat robots exited the vessel. They stopped at the foot of the exit ramp and fanned out in a semicircle. Behind them came six Marines led by Captain Barkley. The Marines were wearing self-contained light armor for protection. Captain Barkley spent a few minutes sending Marines and combat robots to different sections of the landing bay confirming it was safe for Camlin and the other AIs to come out.

“It’s safe,” the pilot said, turning toward Camlin.

Camlin nodded. Even though it wasn’t necessary she would be wearing a nearly skintight environmental suit. It would allow her easier communication with Captain Barkley as well as to examine anything of interest.

“Let’s go,” Camlin said as she stepped into the passenger compartment where four other AIs were waiting. One of the AIs was Jolban who had helped design and update the New Horizon. It was felt his expertise would be useful in examining the interior of the wreck.

The hatch slid open with a hissing sound and the five AIs stepped out to find Captain Barkley waiting for them.

“The landing bay is secure,” he reported. “I’m going to leave two combat robots and a pair of my Marines here for security. The rest will be coming with us.”

“We should go that way,” said Jolban, pointing to a sealed hatch on one side of the bay. “It’s a large hatch and should lead toward the front of the ship. We want to find the Command Center and see if any computers are intact. Once we’ve done that I would like to examine the engineering section to see what type of power system they were using and to examine their space drives.”

The group headed out with two Marines and three of the combat robots in the lead with the final combat robot and Marine bringing up the rear. The robots were equipped with bright lights on their shoulders, which illuminated the space around the group.

Captain Barkley was walking next to Camlin and Jolban. “Everything seems to be dead. So far we haven’t even found any bodies.” They were going down a long corridor strewn with wreckage. Ceiling panels and wiring hung down where it had been knocked loose. In some areas the walls were buckled in.

Occasionally they would stop and Jolban would examine rooms with open hatches. It was strange they were not finding any bodies. “It’s almost as if whoever won this battle stripped the ship of its crew, both dead and alive.”

“Or other ships survived the battle and removed the dead themselves,” suggested Camlin.

Jolban stopped and entered a room containing equipment and what looked like control panels. He spent a few minutes examining the panels and then stepped back out. “That room appears to be some type of auxiliary Life Support center. The power is completely dead though there are a few computers we might want to attempt to access on our way back out.”

The group continued to make their way through the ship. Camlin was carrying a sensor device she was using to scan the rooms and corridors around them. It was this sensor device they were using to guide them to the Command Center.

After nearly an hour they reached a large sealed hatch.

“If I’m reading my sensors correctly this appears to be the Command Center. All the wiring controlling various functions on the ship seems to originate from here.”

“Open the hatch,” Captain Barkley ordered the two leading Marines. They stepped forward and attempted to open the hatch but it didn’t budge. “Use the combat robots.” The combat robots were much stronger.

The two combat robots stepped forward and grasping the handles on the hatch, turned them. The door swung outward revealing darkness beyond.

Barkley sent the two combat robots in first followed by his Marines.

“All clear,” called out Corporal Bennings. “There are not any bodies in here either.”

Camlin stepped through the hatch looking around. The lights on the combat robots’ shoulders were doing a good job lighting up the room. They were in an expansive circular room with large consoles. The chairs in front of the console were a little bit larger than what a Human would use. Numerous screens hung from the ceiling as well as the walls.

“It appears to be undamaged,” said Jolban as he came in and started examining some of the consoles. The other AIs with them began doing the same.

“We need to download the data from as many of these computer consoles as possible,” said Camlin as she stood in front of one she assumed was the navigation computer. “We can learn where this ship has been and if there are more worlds which belonged to this race.”

“That information will be useful,” agreed Jolban. “There should also be some engineering specifications in the computer files. It will give us a good idea about their technology level.”

“We’ll need a power source,” said Camlin as she looked over at a nearby combat robot. Fortunately, the robots could be used as an auxiliary power source for the consoles.

The five AIs quickly got to work connecting the power from the robots to the different consoles. It was a simple matter of opening up panels and locating the incoming power source and splicing the robots’ power to it.

Captain Barkley watched as some of the panels powered up and others did nothing. “Why are some of the panels not working?”

“Unknown,” replied Jolban as he finished wiring one. “In the consoles not powering up we’ll remove their memory storage devices. We can rig up something back on the New Horizon to read them though it might take us a while to understand what we find.”

For an hour the five AIs worked, going from console to console. Each had a miniature computer pad they were using to store the data they were downloading. When one failed to power up Jolban would come over and take the computer apart to remove its memory core.

Captain Barkley kept a watchful eye. So far there had been no indications of any type of danger to the team.

Finally Camlin looked around and announced they were done. “Now, let’s go to Engineering and see what we can find there. We should be able to get a good feel for their technology in the engineering spaces.”

“We also want to stop at that Life Support room and download the data from its computers,” Jolban reminded them.

Captain Barkley nodded and ordered everyone out of the Command Center. They shut the hatch and made their way back through the ship the way they had come. Barkley wished this exploration jaunt would be over. It was spooky as hell walking through the ship. There was no power so there were no lights. The scariest part was not finding any of the crew.

They stopped at the Life Support center where Jolban and one of the other AIs removed the data storage devices from the computers. Satisfied he had everything they needed Jolban informed Captain Barkley they could continue.

They finally reached Engineering after going through several massive hatches and stood staring at the power systems and the ship’s space drive.

“Fusion energy,” announced Jolban as he examined several consoles as well as what appeared to be a fusion power plant. “A very advanced and efficient system.”

“The drive system?” asked Camlin as she looked around the large compartment. There were several systems showing damage and it appeared there had been multiple fires in the room.

Jolban spent several minutes examining more consoles and what appeared to be part of the ship’s space drive system. “Sublight and hyperspace engines. They are on a par with what is being used in the Human Federation of Worlds.”

“That would indicate their weapons might be similar,” suggested Captain Barkley.

“Perhaps,” replied Jolban. “We’ll have to examine them in more detail later. Once we have successfully translated their language I would suggest we come back to this ship with a much larger team and begin dismantling some of the equipment so we can better understand it.”

“Very well,” replied Barkley. He was ready to get off this ship. “Let’s return to the New Horizon and you can make your recommendations to Rear Admiral Barnes. She in turn can speak with Fleet Admiral Strong.”

“Fascinating,” commented Jolban as he looked around. “There is so much research we need to do here.”

“After we get back to the New Horizon,” replied Captain Barkley firmly. “Let’s go people. Back to the landing bay.”

-

Twenty minutes later the two shuttles left the bay and headed back to the massive super exploration dreadnought. In the cockpit of one of the shuttles, Camlin was studying some of the data downloaded to her computer pad. Much of it seemed to be encrypted. This didn’t surprise her as the information had been taken from the computers of a warship. She was feeling excited about what they might learn from it.

However, one thing which did concern Camlin was the fact there were no bodies on the ship. It indicated someone had removed them. The question was who? She realized they would need to send teams to other ships and see if they found the same thing there. This was a mystery and one she wanted to solve.

-

On the Avenger, Jeremy saw the shuttles exit the large ship and head back to the New Horizon. He wondered what they had discovered. So far the teams he had sent down to the planet were not finding much. All of the large cites and settlements had been destroyed by antimatter weapons. In areas where no bombs had fallen vegetation had overrun the few remaining buildings. It was beginning to look as if any usable information would have to come from the ship wrecks scattered across the system. He would continue the missions down to the planet as well as send some to the other planets, moons, and asteroids. Jeremy was determined to find out just what or who had destroyed this system.

“The damage to the planet appears to have happened several hundred years ago,” reported Clarissa. “The amount of plant growth in the outlying area which has overrun buildings is indicative of a long period of time passing. There is also considerable plant growth in the cities destroyed by antimatter weapons.”

“Any idea of how many people there were on the planet at the time of its destruction?” asked Jeremy.

“Several billion at least,” replied Clarissa.

“Could it have been the Eternals?” asked Kevin, stepping over close to Jeremy.

Jeremy shook his head. “I doubt it. We’re too far out.” Jeremy just hoped they hadn’t stumbled across another dangerous enemy. The Eternals were bad enough.

Chapter Ten

Admiral Tolsen was in the Command Fortress speaking with General Wilcox. They were in the center of the massive asteroid fortress reviewing the plans for defending New Tellus. The Command Center was huge with hundreds of viewscreens, consoles, and personnel. The Command Center and the supporting structure around it were like a miniature city containing several thousand people. People could stay in the fortress for years without ever having to leave.

General Wilcox was sitting in her office off to one side of the huge Command Center. On one of the many viewscreens on the wall was a view of one of the new asteroids which had been towed into orbit around New Tellus. Numerous shuttles and other small craft were visible working on the surface. Several boring machines were busy drilling into the asteroid.

“How long before the asteroids are finished?” Race knew a massive amount of resources were being dedicated to getting the asteroids ready to defend the planet.

“We’ve moved two new asteroids into orbit. Both are quite large, around twenty kilometers in diameter. The surface of the asteroids will be covered in battle armor as well as the most powerful defensive and offensive weapons we have.”

“We’re going to provide you with dark energy cannons,” replied Race. “We’re also going to allow you to arm all eight asteroids with dark matter missiles. However, only the asteroids will be allowed to have those weapons.”

General Wilcox nodded. “That should be sufficient. We’re equipping the shipyards and the Indomitable Class Battlestations with antimatter cannons and missiles. We estimate it will take us three months to finish the conversions. We’re also adding new antimatter power systems as well to replace the fusion ones we currently employ.”

Race nodded. If they had the time he was certain they could make New Tellus nearly impregnable to an Eternal attack. “What about the Type Two Battlestations?” These were much smaller stations which surrounded the shipyards.

“We’re improving their fusion reactors. Their primary weapons will continue to be particle beams. We’re also building more to put around New Tellus mixed in with the defense grid.”

“What about the defense grid?” Race knew there were already hundreds of small particle beam satellites orbiting the planet.

“We’re doubling the number of particle beam satellites. Their primary function will be to prevent any Eternal missiles from getting through. We’ll also be deploying large numbers of Talon fighters and Anlon bombers to shoot down any missiles that might penetrate the grid.”

“What about ground defenses?” Race knew the Eternals had ground troops as well as killer combat robots.

“We have troops on the ground ready in case the Eternals manage to reach the surface. We also have a considerable number of interceptor missiles to shoot down any attack craft that come within range.”

Race studied the viewscreens showing the defenses the general was talking about. On every screen there was intense activity as the military and civilians in the system prepared for all out war.

“What will your fleet do when the Eternals come?”

“Most of us will probably die,” replied Race with a solemn look on his face. “There’s no doubt in my mind the Eternals will attack in overwhelming force. The job of my fleet will be to cut them down in size so your defenses and Admiral Crown’s ships can finish them off.”

General Wilcox was silent for several long moments. “I can assure you we’ll do everything in our power to keep them away from New Tellus.”

Race hoped the general was right. New Tellus was the first world, other than Ceres, settled by the survivors from the old Human Federation of Worlds.

-

In the Solar System Fleet Admiral Nagumo was speaking to President Treadway. They were on board the admiral’s flagship, the battleship Luna. They were currently in orbit around Earth near one of the twelve massive battlestations protecting the planet. Each battlestation was three thousand meters in diameter and heavily armed.

“Still having trouble with the council?” asked Nagumo.

Evelyn nodded with a tired look in her eyes. “A few of the senators are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect their worlds, then you have others like Senators Adams and Hanford who are rejecting every one of our defensive proposals.”

“At least we have the discretionary funding to begin beefing up the fleet and our defenses here in the Solar System,” replied Admiral Nagumo.

Evelyn looked at the main viewscreen in the conference room. It showed one of the Originators’ large Acceleration Rings being assembled in orbit around the Moon. Within another week the first evacuees would be leaving the Solar System and going to the Dyson sphere in Shari space.

“We’ve already asked for volunteers to go to the Dyson sphere. We’re starting out gathering young couples with children.”

“A wise decision. How many people are you hoping to evacuate from the Solar System?”

Evelyn let out a deep sigh. “I’m hoping for several hundred million. There are many who will refuse to leave their homes. There will be others who will not believe the threat is real. I spoke to Councilor Tureen yesterday; the Altons are much more pragmatic. They plan on moving nearly four billion of their people to the Dyson sphere. Another forty million are moving to the City of Lights in the center of the galaxy. They plan on defending their home system and two others. That leaves a lot of others undefended.”

“I know,” replied Nagumo. “They’re sending most of their science ships to the Dyson sphere and many of their most esteemed scientists. Those who don’t wish to go to the Dyson sphere are going to the City of Lights.”

Evelyn had never been to the City of Lights. It was a massive city on the Altons original homeworld. “I would like to see the City of Lights once the Altons are moved in.”

She could well imagine what the city would look like with inhabitants once more. The Altons had a major military presence in the system as they were studying the massive computer complex under the city, which held all the Alton’s ancient knowledge.

“What’s being done to the shipyards here in the Solar System?”

“Adding defenses,” replied Nagumo. “We’re also building more Indomitable Class Battlestations, a large number of Type Two Battlestations, and massively increasing the defensive grid above both Earth and Mars.”

Evelyn took a deep breath and then gazed directly into Fleet Admiral Nagumo’s eyes. “Can we save Earth and Mars?”

Nagumo had a pained look in his eyes. “I honestly don’t know. It depends on how badly the Eternals want us dead. Even if we hold Earth and Mars against the expected attack what’s to prevent the Eternals from returning again and again until they finally defeat us?”

Evelyn’s eyes widened as she realized what Fleet Admiral Nagumo was saying. “Then all we can do is hope to buy additional time to evacuate more of our people to the Dyson sphere.”

“I’m afraid so,” replied Nagumo. “If the Eternals continue to attack they will eventually weaken our defenses to the point where they can get through to the planets.”

President Treadway was silent as she thought over what the fleet admiral had just said. She looked over at a viewscreen showing the blue and white globe of Earth. Nearly seven billion people were currently living on the planet with almost two billion more on Mars. There were also small colonies on the moons of some of the planets as well as the major asteroids.

“Do the best you can. The longer we can hold out the more of our people we can evacuate to the Dyson sphere.”

-

After the president left, Fleet Admiral Nagumo instructed the Commander of the Luna to take the flagship to the Moon to inspect the lunar defenses. They were quite powerful as the Fleet Academy was located there as well as other training facilities. Leaning back in his chair he closed his eyes, thinking about what was ahead. War was coming to the Human Federation of Worlds, one they could not win.

-

Councilor Barnes had returned to the Communications and Transport Hub. He gazed around him as his shuttle took him to the Dyson sphere inhabited by the Humans, Altons and Carethians. Massive structures were everywhere. Thousands of shuttles were constantly moving between the titanic constructs. Warships and the forty-kilometer battlestations were gathered in a defensive posture around the structures. In the center of all the structures were the four Dyson spheres.

It didn’t take long for his shuttle to land and for an air car to fly him to the Tower where he was meeting with the rest of the council. Councilor Tureen was still back on the Alton homeworld making arrangements for a mass evacuation. The Altons were a more logical race and getting them to move to the Dyson sphere was much easier than it was for the Humans. Humans had a tendency to doubt everything they were told even when shown overwhelming evidence. Councilor Barnes suspected once the attack by the Eternals began, there would be a mass rush by the Human population to evacuate.

As the air car landed, Councilor Barnes couldn’t help but notice how busy the ultra modern city was. Everywhere people were going about their business running the massive city. As they flew in Barnes had noticed more cities being constructed in the distance. Once the evacuation of the Human Federation of Worlds was complete as well as the Alton worlds, the populace would be moved gradually from the Dyson sphere in the home galaxy to this Dyson sphere. There was room here for more than one thousand times the population of the Humans, Altons, and Carethian worlds combined.

Entering the Tower Councilor Barnes quickly made his way up to the council chambers in one of the upper levels. The Tower was busy as always since it was the governmental and military center for the hub. There were members from the Originators, Humans, Altons, Carethians, and Originator AIs working on nearly all levels. The Tower also held the main Communications Center.

Reaching the council chambers, Councilor Barnes went inside to find the other councilors already present.

“Welcome back,” greeted Councilor Trallis. “We have been discussing the potential threat to your home galaxy and what we can do about it. Admiral Jackson has made some recommendations and we would like to hear what you think of them.”

“It’s good to be back,” replied Barnes as he sat down.

Admiral Jackson handed Councilor Barnes a blue folder. Each of the councilors had one in front of them. “This is my proposal for the defense of the Human Federation of Worlds as well as several of the Alton systems. I’ve been in contact with Councilor Tureen and he is in full agreement.”

Barnes opened the folder and began reading. He was greatly surprised by its contents. “You’re recommending sending a large number of battlestations to defend the Federation and the Altons. What about the Carethians?”

“They have requested all battlestations be sent to the Federation or Alton space. They are already planning on moving a significant percentage of their population to the Dyson sphere. The rest will do what they can to defend Careth.”

Councilor Barnes leaned back in his chair frowning. “They won’t stand a chance against Eternal weapons.”

“Perhaps not,” responded Grayseth in his normal loud booming voice. “But enough of my people will eventually make it here to continue our race and preserve our culture. We’re making arrangements to transport much of our historical heritage on cargo ships so our cubs will know what life on Careth was like. We recognize it is not practical to defend Careth since it’s so far from the Federation and the Altons.”

“Many of your people will die,” said Councilor Barnes, his eyes focused on Grayseth.

Grayseth nodded with his large incisors showing. “It will be an honorable fight and many of my people will embark on the Great Hunt. The old and many of our warriors will remain to fight the Eternals. It is the way of life and my people recognize what must be done. The clans will continue here on the Dyson sphere and perhaps someday we can return and reclaim our home.”

“What about Rear Admiral Tolsen, has her fleet departed yet?” Barnes knew it was supposed to go to the Solar System to support Fleet Admiral Nagumo and his forces.

“Yes, they left about a week ago,” replied Admiral Jackson. “We plan to begin sending the battlestations through in another two weeks. They will be armed with our most powerful weapons except for the blue energy spheres. We’re hoping they will allow us to protect several star systems in the Human Federation of Worlds as well as the Alton homeworld.”

“Have we heard of any Eternal ships being detected in our home galaxy?” The last Barnes heard one hadn’t been detected though with the Eternal stealth systems it was possible one had been in the home galaxy and already sent word to the Eternals about what it had discovered.

“No,” replied Admiral Jackson. “We have ships out searching for any that might be lurking about. So far we’ve found possibly three more in other galaxies. We don’t know if they’ve made it to the Milky Way yet or not.”

Councilor Barnes looked over at Councilor Trallis. “Have we broached the subject about Eternal ships being in our galaxies to the Eternals?”

“Yes,” replied Councilor Trallis. “They claim it was a misunderstanding with one of their smaller fleet commanders. Supposedly all stealth ships have been recalled.”

“Which we know isn’t true,” added Councilor Castille. “We believe the Eternals are only trying to buy time. Time to find Earth, Careth, and the Altons.”

“They will eventually,” replied Councilor Barnes.

Admiral Jackson stood up and looked at the councilors. “When they do they will attack with a massive force. We need to be prepared to destroy that force while at the same time launching a full scale invasion of many of their galaxies in retaliation.”

Several of the Originator Councilors seemed taken aback at that suggestion.

“You’re talking about committing most of our ships to such a conflict,” said Councilor Metric. “Ships we need to defend the Shrieels.”

“The Shrieels are now more than capable of defending themselves,” replied Admiral Jackson. “Over the past two years we have greatly upgraded the defenses protecting all the Shrieels as well as our bases. We’ve also significantly increased our ship construction capacity. We must show the Eternals there is a severe penalty for breaking any agreement we sign with them.”

“What about here at the hub?” asked Councilor Roan. “We must keep it adequately defended.”

“We shall since the majority of the Originator population is here at the hub and we plan on moving a significant portion of the Human, Alton, and Carethian populations here as well.”

This seemed to satisfy most of the Originator Councilors.

Councilor Trallis called for a quick vote and the plan was agreed upon. The council then spent the next few hours working out the details including calling in several Originator strategists as well as military AIs to get their opinions. In the end they thought they had a plan which would work and might even force the Eternals into a more permanent ceasefire.

-

Deep in the Milky Way Galaxy, a stealthed Eternal battlecruiser was following a small fleet of Human warships. The ships were much smaller than an Originator battlecruiser but communication intercepts had concluded they were indeed Human. For several days the Eternal battlecruiser had been shadowing the small fleet hoping it would lead them to the Human homeworld.

-

Commander Zavold gazed at the tactical display at the six red threat icons his ship was following. From communication intercepts, they had identified the vessels as Human strikecruisers. The vessels were one thousand meters in length and quite heavily armed though Zavold doubted they would be a threat to his battlecruiser.

“We have calculated their course,” reported Second Commander Maltin. “They are headed toward a yellow dwarf star 412 light years from our current position.”

Commander Zavold looked at the star chart being projected on one of the large viewscreens. “Let’s hope this star holds one of their primary worlds. If it does, it should not take us long to locate all of their star systems from the ship traffic. Keep us at the extreme range of our sensors. We don’t want the Humans to realize we’re following them.” Zavold was satisfied that very soon he would know the location of the Humans’ homeworld.

-

The following day the six strikecruisers dropped out of hyperspace on the edge of the New Tellus System. Commander Cody was ready for a few weeks leave time. They had just returned from a normal patrol of Hocklyn space to ensure the surviving Hocklyns were obeying all the terms of the peace agreement. The Hocklyn Empire was now but a fraction of its former size. While commerce was allowed between the surviving worlds of the Empire, they were not permitted to possess any armed ships of any sort or major defensive weapons around their worlds. The Human Federation of Worlds and its allies kept continuous patrols in Hocklyn space to confirm adherence to the peace treaty.

“We’re to dock with New Tellus Station,” reported the communications officer.

Commander Cody nodded. “Take us in. This has been a long patrol and we all deserve some downtime.”

The six strikecruisers continued in toward New Tellus Station and finally docked. The crews would disembark and take shuttles down to the planet. While the crews were on leave the ships would be checked and resupplied for their next mission.

-

Several days passed when an alert sounded in the Command Center of the Command Fortress. General Wilcox was in the officer’s mess eating a light lunch when the alarm sounded.

“What is it?” she asked as she entered the bustling Command Center and sat down in her command chair.

“We have an anomaly,” reported Colonel Briggs. “We’ve got a dead spot out on the edge of the system. It was discovered by the strikecruiser Zeus.”

A cold chill spread over General Wilcox. “What’s Admiral Crown going to do?”

“He’s notifying Admiral Tolsen.”

“Take all the fortresses and Indomitable Class Battlestations to Condition Two and activate the defense grid around New Tellus. If this is an Eternal vessel we don’t want it to jump in close and fire missiles at the planet or any of our major installations.”

“Admiral Crown is taking all shipyards to Condition Two as well,” replied Colonel Briggs.

On one of the large tactical displays, two Originator Dreadnoughts and four Originator battlecruisers suddenly disappeared as they made the transition into hyperspace.

“Once those ships reach the anomaly I want to go to Condition One at all installations,” ordered General Wilcox. “All fortresses are to prepare to fire dark matter missiles if this is an Eternal vessel and it jumps into range.” Admiral Tolsen had supplied the large fortresses with some of the weapons a few days back.

Madison sat down in her command chair. She could sense the elevated tension in the massive Command Center. They had hoped it would be months yet before the Eternals found the Human Federation of Worlds. Now it seemed such hope had vanished. They would know for sure in a few more minutes.

-

Commander Zavold was called to the Command Center because of a change in the current tactical situation. Upon arriving in the Command Center, he saw the ship was at a higher stage of alert. “What’s going on? Why have we changed our alert status?”

“We’ve detected six of the Originator ships jumping into hyperspace including two of their dreadnoughts. Sensors indicate they are heading toward our current position,” reported Second Commander Maltin.

“We’re leaving,” said Commander Zavold, making a quick and logical decision. “We’ve accomplished our mission. From the number of ships we’ve traced we have a general knowledge of where their other worlds are located. It is time for us to return and report to the Council of Eternals.”

A few moments later the Eternal battlecruiser made the transition into hyperspace, leaving the New Tellus System behind.

When the eight Originator ships exited hyperspace, they found no signs of their quarry.

-

The anomaly has vanished,” reported Colonel Briggs. “We detected a slight hyperspace trace and then it disappeared.”

“Damn!” uttered General Wilcox in disappointment. “It had to be an Eternal battlecruiser operating in stealth.”

“What now?” asked Colonel Briggs.

General Wilcox drew in a deep breath. “We still have at least a few months before they can respond to finding us. We’ll use that time to build up our defenses to the maximum. Communications, contact Fleet Admiral Nagumo. We need to notify him that the Eternals have most likely found the Human Federation of Worlds.”

Chapter Eleven

They were all on board the New Horizon waiting for Camlin and Jolban to deliver their reports about what had been found in the computers on the alien ship. Other explorations were ongoing on the fourth planet as well as several large asteroids and moons. Several other nearly intact ships had been boarded and more computer files downloaded. There were also several teams of AIs and engineers busy studying the technology on the alien vessels.

“We have dated the ruins on planet three,” reported Ariel. “The destruction occurred 243 years ago.”

“We’ve also received word from two of our other exploration ships,” added Read Admiral Barnes. “They’ve found two other star systems in the same state as this one. They’re currently investigating wrecked ships as well as the destroyed planets. It’s now evident whatever happened here was not isolated.”

Jeremy opened a folder in front of him detailing the discoveries made by the other two exploration ships. “The big questions are who did this and why? We’re looking at genocide. These worlds were bombed until no one survived. From the destruction prevalent throughout the system, the enemy was very meticulous in their efforts to make sure none of this species remained.”

“Even the smaller scientific outposts were destroyed,” added Aaliss. “Nearly every planet, moon, and major asteroid shows evidence of antimatter explosions.”

Aaliss used her neural implant to activate the large viewscreen in the conference room. Instantly images of the destruction she was talking about appeared. The screen showed the ruins of cities, massive blast craters on various moons, and blackened areas on asteroids. For nearly ten minutes Aaliss showed scenes of the destruction they had found across the system.

“This is worse than what the Eternals do,” commented Arian Pantol. “They may reduce a planet’s population but in most cases they don’t destroy everything.”

Jeremy nodded and looked over at Camlin and Jolban. “What have the two of you discovered?”

Camlin blinked her eyes and then responded. “Several years before the destruction which occurred in this system a spatial anomaly was detected thirty-two light years distant. Three research ships were dispatched to investigate and this is what they found.” Camlin activated the viewscreen showing a massive swirling vortex with hints of dark purple, red, and streaks of dark black. It looked like something out of a nightmare and totally unnatural. “This anomaly was nearly twenty kilometers in diameter and discharging massive pulses of energy. The research ships could get no closer than two hundred thousand kilometers without suffering overloads to their systems. The ships launched scientific probes toward the vortex to take more detailed readings.”

Camlin paused and looked around the group with a very worried and concerned expression. “What the probes recorded was frightening. The anomaly wasn’t galactic or intergalactic in nature but inter-dimensional. It was a connection between our universe and another.”

Everyone in the room looked stunned.

Shilum Torre was the first to speak. The Alton was a specialist in hyperspace studies. “We’ve theorized such a thing might be possible but the energy requirements would be vast, even more so than what the AIs in our galaxy built at the black hole.”

“Also the natural laws that govern our universe might not apply in another,” added Nomar Krill. Krill was an Originator specializing in power systems and Originator technology. “It’s an area of research we have stayed away from for fear of upsetting the natural balance of our universe. If that is inter-dimensional it’s a rip in the very fabric of our universe.”

Jeremy gazed at the viewscreen and the swirling alien vortex. “Did anything come out of it?” He suspected he already knew the answer.

Camlin nodded. “Yes; a fleet of alien ships.” She adjusted the viewscreen and a vessel began to emerge from the center of the vortex. It was crab shaped with six curving spires that came out from the sides of the hull and then curved until they pointed forward. It was also dead black in color. “That ship is 2,300 meters in length and is the first of many that came through the vortex.”

“Did the research ships attempt to make contact?” asked Kelsey. Her eyes were glued to the viewscreen and the strange looking alien ship coming through the vortex. Once the ship completely exited the vortex it was followed by another.

“Yes,” replied Camlin. “They sent numerous first contact messages, all of which were ignored.”

“The aliens might not have understood them since they came from another universe,” suggested Andram, leaning forward and gazing at the screen. “The communication technology in our universe might not be compatible with their vessels. Everything inside their ships might be based on sciences common in their universe and not in ours.”

“Andram’s right,” added Shilum. “Their technology and ours may not be compatible. They could also be so alien communication might be impossible.”

“What happened next?” asked Jeremy.

Camlin changed the viewscreen to show one of the crab-like vessels approaching the science ships. “The science vessels were careful not to make any moves that might appear to be threatening. During this time they were still trying to establish communications.”

-

Two hundred and forty five years ago.

“Still no replies to our attempts at communication,” reported the communications officer. “We have tried multiple first contact messages but there has not been a response to any of them. We even tried sending a series of prime numbers.”

High Captain Emmet leaned back in his command chair. There were three science vessels in his small fleet. They had been assigned to study this anomaly and ascertain its origin. Several of the scientists on board were claiming it originated in another universe. Upon seeing the strange spacecraft exiting the vortex he was inclined to agree. What race in its right mind would build such strange looking vessels?

“Not of our universe,” said Shelly Nar. Shelly was one of the scientists on board serving as the ship’s science officer. “The shape of that ship as well as our inability to contact it is all indicative of a science and culture completely foreign to any we are familiar with.”

“Let’s pull back and give them some room,” ordered High Captain Emmet. “Perhaps that will give us time to establish communications. Also, by pulling back we will be indicating we are not a threat.”

“Possibly,” replied Shelly. “However, to them it might also be an indication of weakness on our part.”

High Captain Emmet considered Shelly’s warning. “Never-the-less we will pull back. If that ship is armed we dare not engage it. All three of our ships are only lightly armed. If we’re attacked we’ll withdraw immediately.”

“Pulling back,” reported the navigation officer.

“Alien ship is accelerating,” warned the sensor officer. “Detecting power spikes.”

“They may be arming weapons,” cautioned the ship’s second officer. “Recommend we raise our energy shield as a precaution.”

High Captain Emmet nodded. “Do it. I want all ships prepared to enter hyperspace on my order. Prepare to launch alpha drones in case the ship is destroyed. Download all of our recorded data.” The alpha drones had small hyperspace drives and would return to the home system with a full report of what had happened. Emmet hoped it wasn’t necessary to use them.

“The Starburst and Infinity are moving back and are on our flanks,” reported the ship’s second officer. “They have raised their energy shields as well. High Captain Arbagorst is recommending we withdraw immediately and return with some actual warships.”

High Captain Emmet shook his head. “We don’t dare risk starting a war between universes. For all we know they may be just peaceful explorers. We must find a way to establish communications.”

“Hatches are opening on the alien ship,” reported the sensor officer.

On the main viewscreen, the image of the black ship swelled as it was greatly magnified. From the now open hatches weapon turrets rose up and turned to face the three research vessels.

“They’re going to attack!” warned the sensor officer. “Power readings are off the scale!”

From the black ship, a red energy beam shot out from one of the energy turrets, striking the Infinity. The four hundred-meter research ship blew apart as the beam penetrated its energy shield as if it didn’t even exist.

“Take us into hyperspace,” shouted High Captain Emmet. Even as he gave the order a second beam leaped out, eliminating the Starburst.

“Their beams can penetrate our energy screens!” cried out Shelly in shock. “We have no defense against them.”

“They’re going to fire again,” warned the sensor officer.

“How soon before we can enter hyperspace?”

“Twenty seconds,” replied the navigation officer.

High Commander Emmet knew that wasn’t going to be enough time to save his ship. “Launch all alpha drones. Our homeworlds must know what we encountered here.”

-

The drones had barely left the ship when a red energy beam struck the research vessel. In a blinding flash of light it blew apart, leaving three drifting debris fields where a few minutes before there had been three Varnon research vessels. There were no survivors.

From the swirling anomaly more of the black crab-like ships continued to appear. At the end of two hours the first of twelve invasion fleets had made the transit. War had come to the small galaxy that had known peace for hundreds of years.

-

The present.

“The recording all of us have just watched was from an alpha drone launched by the research ship Serenity just before it was destroyed. The research ships were launched by the inhabitants of this system. They called themselves the Varnons and were an avian species. They stood about seven feet tall with slim figures.” Camlin projected one of the Varnons up on the viewscreen. They were a greenish blue in color with very fine and short feathers. Their eyes were set wide on their faces with slim nostrils looking almost like beaks.

“The aliens and their black ships attacked the Varnon worlds, killing billions. All attempts at communication and even offers of surrender were ignored. From a destroyed black warship, the Varnons learned the aliens were called the Creevak and were a militaristic race. They came from a universe similar to ours with a slightly different set of natural laws. The red energy beam is a result of the difference in physics between our universe and theirs. The Varnons learned very little else about the Creevak before their civilization was destroyed.”

The room was silent as everyone thought about what Camlin had just revealed. It was a frightening scenario. The Creevak sounded much more dangerous than the Eternals.

“Do we know if this anomaly is still open?” asked Kelsey.

“We don’t know,” replied Jolban. “It is just outside our sensor range.”

Jeremy knew he needed to find out if this anomaly was still open. “What else do you have to report?”

“The technology of the Varnons was a little more advanced than what is common in the Human Federation of Worlds but less than the Altons,” Jolban explained. “At the start of the war with the Creevak, the Varnons did not have a large warfleet. Most of their warships were designed more to stop pirating or the occasional raid from systems less advanced. The Varnons did have the ability to build more ships and rapidly due to all the civilian shipyards they had. Nearly all of their worlds had one or two shipyards in orbit.”

“How many Varnon worlds were there?” asked Kelsey.

“They had colonies in over one hundred and ten star systems,” replied Camlin. “They also had mining colonies and research outposts in hundreds more.”

“And the Creevak wiped all of them out?” asked Rear Admiral Barnes, her eyes narrowing sharply.

“As near as we can tell the answer is yes,” replied Camlin.

Jeremy had a decision to make. “Is there anything else we can learn from these planets or the ships?”

“Not much,” answered Jolban. “We’ve already looked at their power sources, weapons, and drive systems. There are minor differences in some of their systems but nothing which would be of benefit to us. We do know the power of their energy shields and energy weapons. Our multiplex shields are at least twenty times more effective than what they were using.”

“Very well. We’ll call all of our research teams in tomorrow and return to the battlestation. As soon as the Accelerator Ring is finished I’ll lead a task group to investigate the location of the anomaly.” Jeremy wanted to make sure they had a means of escape if it became necessary.

“What about our other exploration ships?” asked Kelsey. “Should we recall them as well?”

“Yes,” Jeremy replied. “We need to establish that the Creevak are no longer a threat.” Jeremy had already decided if the Creevak were still active in this galaxy, he would cancel the expedition and return to the Communications and Transport Hub. They could not afford to become involved in an even larger war.

-

Two days later the task group and other exploration fleets were back at the battlestation. The Accelerator Ring was nearly finished and soon could be used if they had to make a quick withdrawal. Jeremy was in his quarters on the New Horizon with Kelsey and Jason. Jason was sitting in Kelsey’s lap while she read him a story before going to bed.

“When are we going home?” asked Jason, looking over expectantly at Jeremy. “I want to play outside.”

Jeremy let out a deep sigh. How do you explain to a four-year-old that they wouldn’t be going home for possibly two years?

“Not for awhile,” replied Jeremy, holding Jason’s hand. “However, in a few days we’ll all go over to the battlestation. There is a city inside with grass and trees and places you can play.”

Jason’s eyes lit up. “Promise?”

Jeremy nodded. “Yes, I promise. I have to go on a short mission with the Avenger and when I return we’ll go to the city.”

This seemed to satisfy Jason and after Kelsey finished reading him the book she left to put him to bed.

Leaning back, Jeremy tried to relax. He was finding it difficult to do so because of the threat the Creevak represented. When they had come out here to explore this cluster of galaxies and satellite galaxies he hadn’t considered the possibility of stumbling across another potential enemy.

Kelsey coming back into the room took Jeremy’s thoughts away from his worry. His wife sat back down next to him and smiled.

“Jason can’t wait to see the city inside the battlestation. That’s all he talked about on the way to bed.”

“We’ll go as soon as I get back.”

Kelsey pursed her lips and then asked a question. “What will we do if you find the anomaly is still in existence?”

“It’s been over two hundred years,” Jeremy replied. “I doubt it’s still active but we need to know for sure.”

Kelsey nodded her understanding. “What if it is?”

“We leave,” Jeremy said definitively. “We take everything through the Accelerator Ring and go back home. We’ll set the ring to self-destruct and hopefully the Creevak will never know we were here.”

“Why did they come to this galaxy to begin with?”

“I don’t know. It’s possible some experiment the Varnons did attracted them. In the information we downloaded from the Varnon computers, there was no indication they knew why the Creevak had come through the vortex.”

“I’m worried,” Kelsey said, squeezing Jeremy’s hand. “We know so little about them or what happened here.”

“Don’t be too worried,” replied Jeremy. “We have Originator designed ships and weapons. They’re the most advanced known. We can defend ourselves if necessary and if not we can always leave.”

Kelsey was silent for several moments. “I almost wish the kids weren’t with us. I would feel better in this situation if they were back on the Dyson sphere.”

Jeremy understood Kelsey’s concern. “The New Horizon is the most powerful ship the Originators have ever built. The center section of this ship has its own power system and hyperspace drive. It’s also nearly indestructible. The children are safe as long as they stay on the ship or in the battlestation.”

“I hope so,” replied Kelsey, standing up. “Now let’s go to bed. You will be going back to the Avenger in the morning and who knows when we’ll have another night together.”

The two went to bed and after a round of passionate lovemaking Kelsey fell to sleep. Jeremy lay there still wide awake, worrying about what he might find at the site of the anomaly. He also wondered just what had drawn the Creevak to this small galaxy. There had to be a reason why they had come. Perhaps they should explore more of the Varnon worlds. Surely their own scientists had asked the same question. There was a chance the answer might be there. Making a decision, Jeremy decided to send some missions to more of the Varnon worlds to see what could be found. While that was going on he would take the Avenger and ten other dreadnoughts to the anomaly site. They had so many questions and as of now not very many answers.

-

Several days later Jeremy was in the Command Center of the Avenger as it neared the location of the spatial anomaly reported by the Varnon science vessels. “Are we showing anything on the sensors?”

Kevin shook his head. “No, everything seems perfectly normal. The location of the anomaly is in open space between two star systems. The sensors aren’t showing anything there.”

This was a relief to Jeremy. Perhaps the incursion by the Creevak was an isolated incident or due to the difference between the two universes the anomaly could no longer exist.

“The anomaly seems to have vanished,” reported Ariel. She was watching the sensors closely for any abnormalities. “There are also no hostile contacts within thirty light years of us.”

“I would suggest we drop out of hyperspace just short of the former location of the anomaly and conduct a thorough sensor sweep,” said Aaliss. “We have some instruments on board that will detect any changes in the underlying fabric of space.”

“How close to you suggest?”

“Twenty thousand kilometers should be sufficient.”

Jeremy turned toward Lieutenant Striker at the helm. “Do as Aaliss suggests. Drop us out of hyperspace twenty thousand kilometers from the last known position of the anomaly.”

-

The Avenger and her escorts continued forward in hyperspace until it approached the designated dropout point. The ship returned to normal space with stars filling the viewscreens.

“Hold us at this position,” ordered Jeremy. He then looked over at Aaliss. “Began your scans.”

“Something’s trying to pull us in,” reported Lieutenant Striker as the Avenger suddenly lurched forward. “I’m having a hard time maintaining our position.” His hands were moving over his console, making adjustments.

Aaliss closed her eyes briefly as her neural implant interconnected with the ship’s computers and sensors. For several long minutes she stood absolutely still as she studied the results of the scans. Finally she blinked and looked over at Jeremy. “It is as I feared. There is an underlying rupture in the fabric of space, which is not visible except with the use of our special sensors. At the moment the rupture is not active but it could reopen at any time. It is also emitting the attraction force Lieutenant Striker has detected.”

“Is it safe for us to stay here?” asked Jeremy, his gaze focused on the large viewscreen, which showed nothing but stars.

“I believe so,” replied Aaliss. “Though I would recommend we go no closer. If we were going to stay for an extended time period, I would recommend we move back to at least one hundred thousand kilometers or more just for safety reasons.”

“So the Creevak attacked the Varnons and probably every other space going species in this galaxy and then left?” asked Kevin, his eyes were also focused on the viewscreen.

“It appears that way,” replied Jeremy. “The big question is why did the Creevak come here to begin with?”

Aaliss closed her eyes accessing data from the ship’s computer on the scans being run. “There’s a possibility this region of space contained this underlying tear in the fabric of space all along. The Creevak may have come through initiating a preemptive strike to ensure the Varnons never discovered it or would send warships through to their universe.”

“But from what we know, the Varnons were a peaceful race,” pointed out Kevin. “Why destroy them?”

“The Creevak might not have known that,” replied Aaliss.

“So what is there to stop them from coming through again?” asked Major Preston.

Jeremy gazed at the viewscreen, which didn’t show any trace of the rupture. “What would happen if we placed one or two of our battlestations here to ensure the Creevak don’t come back through again? From what we saw of the alpha drone footage, the Creevak warships came through one at a time and very slowly. Surely our battlestations could destroy them before they became a threat.” Jeremy wanted to ensure the Creevak didn’t become a threat to this universe; the Eternals were already bad enough.

Aaliss hesitated and then made a suggestion. “We need to search this galaxy and possibly the main galaxy this one orbits to see if there are any more ruptures. I believe we can design a sensor that would easily detect them. If this is the only one, I would suggest we place one of the new one hundred kilometer battlestations here. I don’t believe the Creevak could get past it. It would effectively prevent them from entering our universe again.”

“I agree,” said Ariel. “From what I’ve studied of the battles the Varnon fought against the Creevak it is evident the Creevak are a very militaristic race. There is a danger they might return. There is also a very good possibility they make periodic sweeps of this galaxy to ensure none of the Varnon survived.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair as he thought over the situation. It didn’t take him long to reach a decision. “We’ll spend the next several weeks exploring this galaxy. I think it would be wise if we kept a couple of dreadnoughts and a few battlecruisers here to monitor the anomaly. That way if it activates, we’ll know.”

“What will our ships do if it does activate?” asked Kevin. “Do we destroy the Creevak ships as they come through? If we do, it might mean starting a new war.”

Jeremy shook his head. “No, if the anomaly activates they’ll pull back to the extreme range of their sensors and monitor what’s happening. They’ll also contact the battlestation and inform it of the anomaly’s activation. We’ll then make a decision about what to do about any Creevak vessels which come through.”

“What about the main galaxy?” asked Aaliss. “We should find out if the Creevak attacked it as well.”

“We will,” replied Jeremy. “As soon as we’re finished in this galaxy we will begin sending expeditions to the larger one. We need to gather as much data as possible about what happened here and if the Creevak pose a threat to our region of space.”

Kevin let out a deep sigh. “For once I’m glad the Eternals are between our space and what happened here. If the Creevak come through in force and move in our direction they’ll encounter the Eternals first.”

Jeremy was in agreement. For now, the Eternals would serve as a protective buffer between Originator space and this galaxy. Jeremy just hoped that never became a reality.

Chapter Twelve

First Leader Fehnral had finally received the report he had been waiting for. One of the stealth battlecruisers had located the Human worlds! Commander Zavold had taken numerous sensor readings recording the coming and going of vast numbers of ships. Tracing their courses had pointed where other Human worlds most likely existed. It was finally time to move against the Humans.

“The system Commander Zavold found is heavily defended,” commented Second Leader Abross. On a viewscreen the space around the inhabited planet appeared. There were a number of glaring red icons including some very large ones. “There are a number of large shipyards as well as what appear to be some asteroids in orbit being used for the planet’s defense. Any attack on this system will result in substantial fleet losses.”

“Losses we can afford,” replied First Leader Fehnral. “However, we cannot allow the Humans and the Altons to continue to operate the Originator dreadnoughts we’re now facing in battle. They are slowing our planned expansion into other galaxies.”

“What about the Carethians?” asked Second Leader Torrel.

“I’m not as concerned about the Carethians,” replied Fehnral. “They seem to be a more primitive species used primarily for ground combat. Once the Humans and Altons have been eliminated we will destroy their worlds as well but for now the Carethians are a secondary target.”

“Even if we destroy the Human and Alton worlds in their home galaxy, there are more of them on Originator ships as well as on the Shrieels,” said Second Leader Tarmal.

“But not large populations,” replied Fehnral. “By destroying their homeworlds we ensure they can’t operate more Originator ships and use them against us. It will force the Originators to adopt a more defensive posture. It wouldn’t surprise me if all resistance to our expansion in other galaxies comes to a stop.”

Second Leader Abross looked over at First Leader Fehnral. “How soon do we send in our fleets?”

Fehnral had already been thinking about that. Over twenty thousand Eternal battlecruisers were waiting for the orders to attack the Human and Alton worlds. “We will send the fleet in two more weeks. However, we will go ahead and send a larger survey force first. Their job will be to determine the location of all Human and Alton worlds. I want stealth ships only for this mission.”

“I will make the arrangements,” replied Second Leader Abross. “I believe twenty of our stealth battlecruisers should be sufficient. I can have them ready to depart in two days.”

First Leader Fehnral nodded his agreement. Once the Humans and Altons were eliminated, he would turn his fleets against the galaxies the Originators controlled. The combat in Originator space should finish off any ships still operated by the Humans and Altons. When the Originator galaxies were firmly under his control, he would place small fleets of Eternal battlecruisers in each of the systems which had a Shrieel. The Originators would be told they could continue to live in their mega-structures but no ships would be allowed to travel outside of them. Fehnral knew with the vortexes built into the hulls of the Shrieels the Originators would still be able to travel from one Shrieel to another but their ability to make war for the foreseeable future would be greatly curtailed.

-

Fleet Admiral Nagumo was in his office aboard the massive shipyard orbiting the Moon. It was heavily armed and ready to fend off any attack on Earth. With him were Admiral Race Tolsen, Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen, Admiral Dwain Johnston, Admiral Felix Diaz, and Rear Admiral Amanda Markesan.

“Well, it’s been confirmed,” Nagumo began with a solemn look on his face. “The Eternals have found us. A stealthed Eternal battlecruiser was recently detected in the New Tellus System.”

“We have no idea how long it was there,” added Admiral Tolsen. “Probably not long but enough to track our ship traffic. As soon as my ships jumped to its location the Eternal vessel jumped out, no doubt to report its discovery to their military.”

Everyone knew what this meant. The attack would come much sooner than expected.

“How much time do we have?” asked Rear Admiral Markesan.

Admiral Nagumo let out a deep sigh. He wished they would have had more time to prepare. “Probably no more than two months. The hyperspace transit time alone will take at least four weeks or more depending on where the Eternal fleets originate from.”

“We need to be on the lookout for more stealthed Eternal battlecruisers,” added Race. “No doubt they will send some in to locate all of our worlds before they attack. If we can detect them we’ll know the attack is imminent.”

“What are our defensive plans?” asked Admiral Johnston. Johnston was in charge of the Federation fleets protecting Mars and the outer planets.

“I’ve notified President Treadway the Eternals have found us. She’s attempting to speed up the evacuation of as many people as possible through the Accelerator Rings. She’s also meeting with the Federation Council informing them of what happened at New Tellus.”

“I’ve spoken to Councilor Barnes,” said Race. “We’ll be installing another Accelerator Ring at New Tellus, Earth, Tau Ceti, and Alpha Centauri. That will allow us to speed up the evacuations as well as send fleets to any of the systems I just mentioned. As soon as those Accelerator Rings are completed, the Originators will begin sending through some of their battlestations.”

“Where will the battlestations be deployed?” asked Diaz. Diaz was in charge of the fleets defending the Tau Ceti System.

Admiral Nagumo opened up a red folder on his desk in front of him. “Initially around New Tellus, Earth, and Mars. We’re also hoping to be able to put at least one around Harmony, Horizon, and Twilight.”

“What about our other worlds?” asked Diaz. “That leaves a lot of our population unprotected.”

“Even with Originator science it takes time to build a forty-kilometer battlestation. The only construction facilities for the battlestations are at the Communications and Transport Hub,” explained Race.

“How many would it take to protect a planet?” asked Admiral Diaz.

Race let out a deep breath. “Three if possible. At the moment only Earth is getting three battlestations. The rest will depend on how quickly more can be constructed.”

“How will our fleets be assigned for the defense of the Federation?” asked Admiral Markesan.

Admiral Nagumo shook his head. “Unfortunately, we’ll be spread pretty thin in some systems. Current plans are for Admiral Tolsen and his Originator fleet to stay in the New Tellus System. We expect that system to be hit very hard early in the conflict. Admiral Crown will have eight hundred battleships and twelve hundred strikecruisers at his disposal.”

“Here in the Solar System we will have Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen’s Originator Fleet as well as two system fleets for defense. Our system fleets will have twelve hundred battleships and sixteen hundred strikecruisers in each. I will command one and Admiral Johnston will command the other.”

“At Tau Ceti we will have six hundred battleships and nine hundred strikecruisers under Admiral Diaz. “I wish we could send more but we just don’t have the ships. We’re activating as many as we can from the reserve depots but it takes time to activate ships which have been sitting idle for several years.”

“What about Harmony in the Alpha Centauri System?” asked Admiral Markesan.

“Your fleet will be the smallest,” replied Fleet Admiral Nagumo regretfully. “You will have four hundred battleships and five hundred strikecruisers. I wish I could send you more but for now that’s all we have.”

“What about the other star systems?” asked Admiral Diaz.

Fleet Admiral Nagumo closed his eyes and then slowly opened them. “We just don’t have the ships. Several star systems have rejected the Eternals as even being a threat. We have small defensive fleets in those systems but we won’t be adding more.”

“There are over four billion people in the 61 Cygni System,” objected Admiral Diaz. “Is there nothing we can do to defend them?”

“I’m asking the Originator Council to send more fleets,” replied Admiral Tolsen. “I’m trying to convince them if we can hold most of the Federation we can use this as an opportunity to inflict major losses on the Eternals’ fleet. I don’t believe they’ve ever attacked defenses like what we have at New Tellus and here in the Solar System. The only comparable defenses would be one of the Dyson spheres and the Eternals already know to leave them alone.”

“We are adding more defensive satellites around most of the planets in the Federation,” Fleet Admiral Nagumo informed them. “The satellites are easy to build and we have mass production assembly lines set up. In the estimated time we have we can triple the amount of defensive satellites around all of our planets. We’re also building more of the Type Two Battlestations. While small they’re much easier and quicker to build than an Indomitable Class Battle Station.”

Admiral Diaz looked over at Admiral Tolsen. “What do you think the chances are the Originators will send more ships?”

“Reasonable,” replied Race. “Keep in mind Councilor Barnes, Councilor Tureen, Councilor Grayseth, and others from the Federation are on the council. I believe they’ll do what they can to help.”

“Let us hope so,” responded Fleet Admiral Nagumo. “In the meantime we’ll continue updating our ships and adding to our defenses. Effective today we’re going to assume we have two months before the Eternals arrive.”

-

 President Treadway had just finished informing the New Human Federation of Worlds Senate of the Eternal vessel detected in the New Tellus System.

“No one actually saw this vessel?” asked Senator Adams of Serenity.

“No, it was a void spot on the sensors which is indicative of a stealthed Eternal battlecruiser. We did detect a hyperspace trace when the ship jumped.”

“But no one saw the vessel?” repeated Senator Adams accusingly.

President Treadway drew in a deep breath. “No, it was never visually seen.”

Senator Adams nodded his head knowingly. “Then all of this military buildup could be for nothing. We’re wrecking our economies. Even the systems such as mine which are refusing to participate in this farce are suffering. We need to put an end to this and return to a normal peacetime status.”

“Some of us don’t have our heads stuck in the sand as you do,” replied Senator Malross of Mars. “I’ve seen the evidence and I’m satisfied we are looking at a potential invasion by the Eternals in the coming months. It is prudent we do everything in our power to prepare.”

“Bah!” exclaimed Senator Adams. “There was nothing there. You’re reacting to a sensor ghost. They’ve occurred in the past and my military people are certain that’s what we have here.”

“Are you willing to risk your worlds on that?” asked Senator Malross. “I’m not.”

“Then spend your budgets on this massive military buildup,” growled Adams. “We’ll spend our money more wisely. When this charade is over all of you will regret wasting money which could have been spent on helping the people of the Federation.” Adams stood up, glaring at the other senators. “I will listen to no more of this fantasy the Federation’s military has dreamed up.” With that Senator Adams and Senator Hanford stormed out of the meeting. Several other senators left as well.

“They’re dooming their worlds,” spoke Senator Brown of New Tellus. “How can they be so blind as to what’s happening?”

“They’re from Epsilon Eridani and they’re on the far side of the Federation,” replied Senator Brown. “Their worlds are only marginally habitable and they have spent considerable time and money on their terraforming projects. They have always been opposed to any type of increase in military spending.”

“Should we do anything to help them?” asked Senator Lisa Karls from Horizon in the Tau Ceti System.”

“I fear there is little we can do without their agreement,” replied President Treadway. “For the immediate future all we can do is prepare our defenses and continue with the evacuation. The Originators are sending more of their large passenger transports as well as building additional Accelerator Rings to speed up the evacuation.”

-

For the next two hours the senate debated what needed to be done to ensure the survival of the Human Federation of Worlds. In the end, they realized until the Eternals attacked there was no way to know if the defenses were going to be enough.

-

After the meeting, Race and Massie got together in the Food Court area of the massive shipyard. There were dozens of small restaurants and shops along a wide concourse. Tables, chairs, and growing plants were everywhere making it a relaxing area to eat and take time off from station duties. There were even a few movie theatres showing the latest vids.

“How soon can you come and see Mom and Dad?” asked Race as he sipped a beer.

“Maybe next week,” replied Massie, holding her glass of iced tea. “I have some fleet assignments I need to take care of and two or three meetings with Fleet Admiral Nagumo to make plans for system defense.” Massie took a deep drink of her tea. For some reason the tea here tasted far better than what she was used to back on the Dyson sphere. “Do you think we’ll be receiving more ships?”

Race nodded. “I’m pretty sure we will. If Fleet Admiral Strong was at the Communications and Transport Hub I’m certain we would. I don’t think Councilor Barnes will let us down.”

Massie took a moment to study the menu. There were a few food items listed which were difficult to get away from Earth. “How bad do you think it will be?”

Race set his beer down on the table and folded his arms across his chest. “The Eternals will try to overwhelm us with their fleets. I fully expect us to be outnumbered by five to one or more.”

Massie looked stunned. “Are we going to die?”

“Not if I can help it,” Race replied. “We need to do everything we can to make every inch of space costly to the Eternals. No close in engagements until we have the planetary defenses at our backs. It will prevent the Eternals from trying to englobe our fleets.”

“We really need those battlestations.”

“Yeah, we do,” Race replied. “If we can get enough battlestations in orbit around New Tellus, Earth, and Mars it will give us a chance to hold all three planets.”

“What about the rest of the systems?”

Race shook his head. “I don’t know. I would like to see us hold Tau Ceti but I don’t know if it’s feasible. If we spread the battlestations out too far they won’t be able to protect the primary planets. I think we take care of New Tellus, Earth, and Mars first and then move on to the others.”

“President Treadway may not like that,” commented Massie as she took another sip of her tea.

Race knew Massie was right. It would be difficult explaining to the president why two thirds of the population of the Human Federation of Worlds might have to die rather than be defended. “It’s war and sometimes we have to make hard decisions. We’ll know more once we find out how many ships and battlestations the Originators are going to send.”

“They won’t let us down,” replied Massie with certainty in her voice. “I just know they won’t.”

-

The two spent the rest of the afternoon in the Food Court, talking and reminiscing about old family times. In the end Massie promised to come spend a few days with their parents at New Tellus before her fleet duties became too hectic to allow her to take any serious time off.

-

At the Communications and Transport Hub there was an important meeting occurring in the Tower. The Originator Council was meeting and discussing what to do about defending the Human Federation of Worlds and the Altons.

“We must send as many battlestations and ships as possible,” stated Admiral Jackson determinedly. “This is an opportunity for us to bleed the Eternals and significantly weaken their fleet. The static defenses in the New Tellus System and the Solar System are the heaviest we know of outside a Dyson sphere.”

“I agree,” said Councilor Barnes. “We know the Eternals are going to attack. Let’s make this into a trap for them.”

“They’ve never fought against one of our battlestations. They have no idea of their firepower,” added Admiral Jackson.

“It is the honorable thing to do,” commented Grayseth in his loud booming voice. “My people owe much to the Humans and the Altons. We must do everything in our power to save as many of them as possible.”

Councilor Trallis stood up and looked at the assembled council. They had been discussing this for over an hour. “In our younger days we would not have hesitated committing our fleets and battlestations to the defense of the Humans and the Altons. We owe our very existence to these people. I believe we must commit ourselves fully in going to their aid. We must destroy the fleets the Eternals send for this battle. If we annihilate them, the Eternals will have to reconsider making such an attack again.”

“If we send the battlestations, where will we get them?” asked Castille.

Trallis hesitated briefly before responding. “We have over forty battlestations here at the hub. I propose sending thirty of them to defend the Humans and the Altons.”

“Thirty!” protested one of the other Originator Councilors. “That will seriously reduce our own defensive capacity here at the hub. We don’t dare to that.”

“Keep in mind we are building new battlestations in two facilities here,” Trallis reminded everyone. “All of the facilities here, including the four Shrieels, are heavily armed. Not only that, we will ensure there are sufficient fleet units to defend us in case of an Eternal attack. Don’t forget as of now the Eternals have no knowledge the Communications and Transport Hub exists.”

“What about fleet units?” asked Councilor Roan. “How many of them should we send?”

“Our fleets in the Shrieels now total over six hundred thousand battlecruisers and sixty thousand dreadnoughts. Our biggest problem has been finding crews for the larger ships. That is another reason why we must save the Human and Alton worlds.”

Councilor Metrics looked over at Admiral Jackson. “You once suggested when the Eternals’ attack the Federation and the Altons that we attack some of the Eternals’ galaxies. Do you still believe that?”

Admiral Jackson nodded his head. “Yes, I propose we attack the twenty Eternal galaxies nearest Originator space. We would commit two hundred thousand of our ships to this endeavor. It will teach the Eternals the foolishness of violating any agreement we sign with them in the future.”

“When would this attack take place?” asked another of the Originator councilors.

“As soon as we have confirmation they have attacked the Federation or the Altons.”

“How many ships do we commit to defending the Federation and Alton worlds?” asked the same councilor.

Admiral Jackson hesitated for a second and then replied. “Fifty thousand ships. Forty-five thousand battlecruisers and two thousand dreadnoughts.”

Councilor Trallis’s eyes widened. “That’s most of our remaining manned ships.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. “The manned ships will help keep down losses. That still leaves over half of the Originator fleet to defend the Dyson spheres and Originator space.”

-

For another two hours the council debated Admiral Jackson’s recommendations. In the end, they came to an agreement and instructed the admiral to begin making preparations. It was going to be a massive job to move the battlestations and get all the ships ready for battle. The Eternals were about to learn the Originators were not as helpless as they believed.

-

Councilor Trallis, Councilor Barnes, Councilor Grayseth, and Admiral Jackson were meeting in the admiral’s office to discuss how to implement the plans made in the council meeting.

“How do we make the expected Eternal attack against the Human Federation of Worlds and the Altons into a trap?” asked Councilor Barnes.

“We can send several fleets to the Dyson sphere in Shari space,” suggested Admiral Jackson. “We then use an Accelerator Ring to rush those fleets anywhere in Federation or Alton space when needed. With an Accelerator Ring the travel time would only be a few hours.”

“Which admirals do you want to command those fleets?” asked Councilor Trallis.

“Rear Admiral Braedon Cross will command one and Rear Admiral Cowel the other. I also propose we immediately send Admiral Bachal and his fleet to the Alton homeworld as well as three battlestations. The Alton home system is heavily populated and it’s essential we keep it safe.”

“What about Careth?” asked Councilor Barnes. “We should send a fleet there as well even if it is a small one.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. “We’re not expecting the Eternals to attack Careth until they’ve dealt with the Federation and the Altons, however it doesn’t hurt to take precautions. I propose we send Admiral Calmat and his fleet to defend Careth.”

“Admiral Calmat is a good choice and hunter,” stated Councilor Grayseth. “My people will fight well with him in command.”

“How goes the progress on a larger Accelerator Ring?” asked Councilor Barnes.

Councilor Trallis shook his head. “I have spoken to a number of our power experts and they’ve done some studies. While it is possible to build such a large Accelerator Ring, the power requirements to send a five hundred kilometer battlestation the distance Fleet Admiral Strong is suggesting is nearly astronomical. With our current level of science we can’t do it.”

“What’s the largest ring we can build and the biggest battlestation it could handle to get it to where Jeremy wants it?”

“We can build a two hundred kilometer ring to handle a one hundred and seventy kilometer battlestation. Anything larger and the power requirements become too much.”

Admiral Jackson leaned back in his chair, looking thoughtful. “I would suggest we begin construction of the larger Accelerator Ring immediately. Also, begin planning the larger battlestation. We can use the forty-kilometer station plans as a starting point. I would like to see us begin construction by the end of the month.”

“I will talk to our engineers and construction people,” replied Trallis. “We should also consider exactly what we want to accomplish in our offensive against the Eternals and which galaxies we’re going to send our ships to.”

Councilor Barnes looked over at Admiral Jackson. “It seems as if we’re going to have a lot of irons in the fire at once. We’re not spreading ourselves too thin, are we?”

Admiral Jackson drew in a deep breath and then responded. “No, with our ship construction capacity here plus the Dyson spheres it won’t take us long to make good on all our losses we might incur in these battles. If we’re successful we should be able to force the Eternals back to the bargaining table and come up with a far better peace plan than the last one.”

Councilor Trallis entered some data on his hand held computer pad and then spoke. “Let us hope this works out as you have stated. We’re risking many of our ships.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. He hoped it did as well but in war, the unexpected always had a tendency to show itself. He suspected it would be no different this time.

Chapter Thirteen

Jeremy, Kelsey, and Jason were standing on a small balcony overlooking the small city inside the forty-kilometer battlestation. The city was spread out in a large chamber five kilometers long and one kilometer wide with a ceiling of five hundred meters. There were a number of small restaurants, shops, entertainment centers, and other businesses on its main street. Around the central business district were parks, small homes, and even a few apartment complexes. It was designed to give the station’s crew and the crews of the warships a place to unwind and relax. Jeremy had thought something like this would be necessary since there was a chance they would be away from the hub for nearly two years.

“Is that a lake?” asked Kelsey, pointing to a small body of water in the distance.

Jeremy nodded. “Yes, it’s not a large one but it does have fish in it and you can swim there as well. We even have few boats for people interested in water sports.”

“Where did the people come from who are running the stores and restaurants?”

“Volunteers from the civilian population,” replied Jeremy. “They’re being paid very well for their services. There are nearly seven hundred civilian volunteers and their families. We have a total population of Humans, Altons, Carethians, and Originators in the fleet of nearly 9,600. That doesn’t include the thousands of Originator AIs.”

“That many,” replied Kelsey.

“Mommy, I’m hungry,” said Jason, tugging on her hand. “Can we go eat? I want a hot dog.”

Jeremy grinned. He had arranged for them to spend several days in the city in one of the small homes designated for the members of ship crews. The one he had chosen had a nice green yard as well as a large play set for Jason. “Yes, let’s go eat. There are several nice restaurants and I’m sure we can find one that serves hot dogs.”

As they made their way down to the surface and then began walking into the city, Jeremy could smell the enticing aromas of various foods. There were other crewmembers about both men and women as well as a few Altons, Carethians, and Originators.

There was ground transportation available if needed though most people chose to walk the short distances to everything in the small city. Jeremy found a restaurant which served hot dogs as well as steaks. Going inside they sat down and placed their orders.

“Have you notified the Originator Council and Admiral Jackson of what we’ve found here?” asked Kelsey

Jeremy nodded. “Yes, I sent off a full report yesterday. I imagine they won’t be pleased with what we found.”

“All of our exploration ships except the New Horizon left on their exploration missions yesterday,” commented Kelsey as a server brought her a large glass of iced tea and a glass of milk for Jason. Jason was busy coloring on a paper with the crayons the restaurant had supplied. Kelsey knew from what Jeremy had told her there were other kids here as well with the civilian population. “They’ll spend the next three weeks exploring and surveying this galaxy, particularly all the worlds we know of that were inhabited by the Varnons.”

Picking up his glass of tea Jeremy took a long sip. “I assigned ten dreadnoughts and twenty battlecruisers to each exploration ship. That should be adequate protection. I’m anxious to learn what they discover. Surely some sentient races survived in this galaxy somewhere. The Creevak couldn’t have wiped all of them out.”

“Who are the Creevak?” asked Jason, looking over at Jeremy. “Are they like the Originators?”

Jeremy shook his head. “No Jason, they’re like the Eternals.”

“Bad people,” replied Jason, his eyes widening. “I’ll have to make sure I tell Clair.” Jason then went back to coloring, his curiosity momentarily satisfied.

“How long are we staying in the city?” asked Kelsey. She knew that Katie, Angela, and Kevin were also planning on making an appearance in the next day or two. Jeremy had left Read Admiral Barnes in charge until he returned to the Avenger.

“For a few days at least, maybe longer. I’ve arranged for Ariel and Clarissa to give me daily updates on anything our exploration missions discover.”

Jason looked up from his coloring. “Is Clair coming? We could all go swimming in the lake. That would be fun.”

“We’ll see,” promised Kelsey. “We don’t know what the others are planning yet.”

“Clair will want to go swimming,” persisted Jason. “She likes the water.”

Jeremy’s laughter rang out across the table. “It looks as if we’re going swimming.”

The server brought them their food and placed it in front of them. Jason looked at his hot dog and then up at his mother. “Can I have a corn dog instead?”

Kelsey let out a deep sigh. “No, sweetheart. Eat your hot dog. You can have a corn dog next time.”

Jason nodded and picking up his hot dog took a big bite.

“Eat slowly,” said Kelsey, frowning. “We’re not in any hurry.”

Jeremy was enjoying his time with Kelsey and Jason. He knew as a father he should spend more time with them but his fleet responsibilities kept pulling him away. He fully planned on enjoying these next few days.

-

Rear Admiral Kathryn Barnes was sitting in her command chair in the Command Center of the New Horizon. She was studying some of the information they had gleaned from the Varnon computers. “What type of race are the Creevak?” She looked over at Panthel Bayl who was an Alton scientist well versed in alien cultures.

“We don’t know,” Panthel replied. She took a moment to call up some information on a science console. “All we can say for certain is they came out of the anomaly and immediately began to attack the Varnon research ships. After that they launched full-scale attacks on the Varnon worlds which as near as we can tell ended the Varnon civilization. We also know the Varnons clear up to the very end attempted to establish communications with the Creevak but never managed to do so.”

Kathryn pursed her lips as she though over the implications. “Why would the Creevak refuse to communicate?”

Andram Muce who was still at his science console turned to answer. “There’s a possibility the Creevak are so alien they don’t understand our methods of communication. It’s also possible their sciences are based on a different communication technology since they come from another universe.”

“Who started calling them Creevak?”

“The Varnons were able to board several wrecked Creevak vessels during their battles with them. They were able to partially translate a few records but not many. They know the Creevak have a large empire in their home universe, which spans multiple galaxies. The Creevak are intolerant of other races and only consider their race worthy of sentience. All others must be removed.”

Kathryn felt a cold chill run down her back. “You found this in the computer files we downloaded?”

Andram nodded. “Yes, the files actually contain the information the Varnon downloaded from the Creevak ships. I’m running a translation analysis of that information. We may know more when it’s complete.”

“Keep me informed,” ordered Kathryn. “Also, create a file of what you find so I can inform Fleet Admiral Strong.”

Kathryn leaned back and looked at the large viewscreen in the front of the Command Center. It was currently focused on the small satellite galaxy. The small exploration fleets would soon begin to report in and she was curious as to what they would find. Were the Creevak successful in wiping out the Varnons or somewhere in that galaxy were there still a few surviving Varnon worlds? Over the next few weeks they should begin to find out.

“What’s the status of the fleet at the anomaly site?”

“No change,” reported Clarissa. Clarissa had stayed on board to give Jeremy and the others some alone time with their children. “We have two dreadnoughts and four battlecruisers monitoring the anomaly. They’ve deployed several probes to take close up readings. If there are any changes we should know immediately.”

For a few days it would be relatively quiet until the reports from the various fleets began to come in. Kathryn decided to take it easy for the next day or so. She had some reading to catch up on in her quarters and Clarissa or Camlin would notify her if her presence was needed in the Command Center. Nearly half of the crew had gone over to the battlestation for some leave time. The rest of the crew would be rotated as the others returned.

“I’m going to go get something to eat and then turn in,” Kathryn said to Clarissa and Camlin. “Let me know if anything important comes up.”

With that Kathryn stood up and exited the Command Center. She knew the two AIs would contact her immediately if anything newsworthy occurred. For now she was looking forward to a nice meal and then a long hot shower. Then she was going to lie down and cozy up to a good book.

-

Back at the hub, Admiral Jackson was watching as the first battlestation entered one of the Accelerator Rings. Over the next twenty-eight hours ten of the massive forty-kilometer stations would be sent through the ring. The first three were bound for Earth, the next three for New Tellus, and the next four to the system of Tau Ceti, which held the inhabited planets of Horizon and Twilight. Once that was done several Originator fleets would be sent through. Then after a few more days ten more battlestations would be sent through all going to the Altons.

“Busy day,” commented Councilor Barnes, who was standing next to Admiral Jackson. They were in the Tower in the large Communications Center. It held numerous large viewscreens showing vistas of the entire region of the Communications and Transport Hub. Currently several of the large screens were focused on one of the Accelerator Rings as well as the line of battlestations waiting for transport.

On the screen, a bluish swirling vortex appeared and the approaching battlestation entered it to promptly vanish as it was accelerated to intergalactic speeds. Moments later the Accelerator Ring shut off as it waited for the next battlestation to move up and take its position before entering the ring on its gravity drive. Plans called for one battlestation every two hours to enter the ring.

“What does moving all of these fleets around do to our harassing tactics in the galaxies the Eternals are trying to take over?” asked Barnes as he watched several fleets of battlecruisers forming up.

“We’ve reduced the size of the fleets involved though the Eternals won’t know that. The only region where wide scale engagements are still occurring are where Commander Zafron and Rear Admiral Mann are located. They’ve put a battlestation in Galaxy X-7294 as well as constructed two Originator fleet bases. We’ve assigned a large defensive fleet to stop any Eternal incursions into the galaxy. I’ve also ordered Commander Zafron to begin offensive operations in Galaxy X-7295. We’re trying to make it appear to the Eternals we’re focusing all of our efforts into growing our presence in that region of space.”

Councilor Barnes nodded. “You’re hoping to make the Eternals think our fleets are concentrating there and not preparing to stop their attack on the Human Federation of Worlds and the Altons.

“Precisely,” said Jackson with a huge smile. “I spoke with Fleet Admiral Strong and described what I wanted to do in detail. He had a few suggestions which I’m going to add to our defensive plan. We’re preparing the biggest mousetrap in history and if everything works out right the Eternals are going to walk right into it.”

“What makes you so sure the Eternals won’t figure out what we’re doing?

“They’re too egotistical. They believe their nanites make them the superior race and look down on all others as inferiors. They even believe the Originators are inferior to them. We’re going to use their own superiority complex against them.”

On one of the larger viewscreens, another Accelerator Ring activated and a fleet of dreadnoughts with a large escort of battlecruisers vanished into the swirling blue vortex.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that,” said Councilor Barnes as the ring shut down, leaving only darkness.

“We’ll have a lot more people here at the hub shortly,” said Jackson. On several of the smaller viewscreens were views of some of the new cities being built on the Dyson sphere.

Councilor Barnes nodded. “Yes, we will. I’m hoping we can evacuate several billion Humans just from the Federation. The Altons will be sending at least that many as well.”

Jackson was silent for a moment and then he spoke. “At least if we fail, our people will be safe and we can continue. The war with the Eternals will go on until either we win or they manage to find some way into the Dyson spheres.”

Councilor Barnes knew Admiral Jackson was right. He wished Kathryn were back from her mission. He had read the reports Fleet Admiral Strong had sent back; they had been frightening. If the Creevak were to make an appearance Barnes wasn’t sure Jeremy had the forces with him to stop them even with the battlestation he had.

-

Rear Admiral Kathryn Barnes had been summoned to the Command Center by Camlin. The first reports from some of the exploration fleets were beginning to come in.

“It’s the same everywhere they find a planet that was once inhabited,” Camlin reported. “Destroyed ships in orbit around a desolate world. It appears the Creevak destroyed all the planets inhabited by the Varnon.”

Kathryn had been afraid of this. “What about other civilizations besides the Varnon? We know from the records we downloaded from their ships there were a few.”

“The Searcher was sent to investigate the nearest known inhabited world which had space travel,” reported Clarissa. “That planet was destroyed. There is no surviving life on its surface. There is also no evidence of any battle being fought in the system. The Creevak came in and struck the surface of the planet with antimatter weapons, leveling everything. The Searcher and its fleet are going on to another one of the space traveling races mentioned by the Varnon.”

Camlin was studying the data coming in from the different exploration fleets and cataloging it for future study. She was also preparing short summaries of what each group was reporting. So far everything was highly depressing. “It’s possible there are no longer any sentient species surviving in this satellite galaxy.”

Kathryn stared at the viewscreen showing the satellite galaxy. There were over 200 million stars. Surely some sentient races survived! “Inform all of the exploration fleets to continue until notified otherwise. There have to be some species who survived somewhere in this galaxy. I find it difficult to believe the Creevak destroyed all of them.”

“We have no idea of the number of ships the Creevak sent to this galaxy through the anomaly or how long they stayed,” pointed out Clarissa. “They could have been in this galaxy for several hundred years sweeping it for signs of intelligent life.”

“Let’s hope not,” replied Kathryn. “We’ll write up a summary in the morning for Fleet Admiral Strong. That should provide time for more of the fleets to report in.” Kathryn sat down in her command chair and began reviewing the information coming in. The more she read the more depressed she felt. The Creevak were making the Eternals seem like Saints.

-

The next day Jeremy was busy reading the reports sent by Rear Admiral Barnes on the computer in the small house they were staying in. The computer had been installed just so Jeremy could receive the updates on the exploration fleets.

Kelsey came in, sat down next to him and began reading the reports as well. “All those worlds destroyed. We’re talking about billions, maybe trillions of sentient beings. What kind of monsters are these Creevak?”

Jeremy shifted in his chair. “They come from a different universe. Their morals and beliefs may be far different than our own.”

“We can’t let them return. What would happen if they appeared in our region of space?”

“I’ve spoken to several Originator scientists. They believe the condition that allows passage between our universe and the Creevaks’ universe may only be able to exist where the anomaly is located. Without the anomaly, the Creevak may not have any other method to come to our universe. That’s why I’m going to park our new battlestation right in front of it with a corresponding fleet. If the anomaly activates again we’ll destroy whatever comes out.”

Kelsey looked concerned. “How soon before the new battlestation is ready?”

Jeremy let out a deep sigh. “They’re just beginning its construction. Even with Originator construction techniques it’s going to take at least two to three months and then seven weeks of transit time with the new Accelerator Ring to get it here. The battlestation will be one hundred and seventy kilometers in diameter. That’s larger than the one hundred kilometer one I was expecting.”

“What if the Creevak come through before then? We have no idea how often they come through the anomaly.”

“That is a problem,” admitted Jeremy. “I’m thinking about sending more dreadnoughts and battlecruisers to reinforce the ones we have there. Unfortunately, I don’t know if even that would be enough to stop the Creevak if they were determined to come through.”

“We could place one of the exploration dreadnoughts there as well,” suggested Kelsey. “With their advanced sensors and scientific instruments they might be able to detect the activation of the anomaly before our other ships. That way the fleet would be ready if the Creevak return before the battlestation gets there.”

Jeremy thought for a few seconds and then nodded. “That’s a good idea. Go ahead and pick one of your exploration dreadnoughts to join the fleet we’re going to send.”

“How soon?”

“I think I’ll feel better the sooner we have more firepower watching the site of the anomaly. I’ll send the fleet tomorrow.”

“I’ll go ahead and make arrangements for an exploration dreadnought to join the fleet at the anomaly,” replied Kelsey.

“I want to go swimming,” a young voice spoke from behind them.

Kelsey turned to look at Jason standing in the doorway with his swimming trunks on. “We’ll leave shortly, honey. Your father and I have a few more things to do and then we can leave.”

“We need to hurry,” replied Jason with his hands on his hips. “I don’t want Clair to beat us there.”

“We should get there about the same time they do,” promised Jeremy, smiling. It seemed as if Jason was always worried about Clair.

“I’ll contact Rear Admiral Barnes and have her assign an exploration dreadnought to the fleet,” said Kelsey as she stood up. “It shouldn’t take too long.”

“I’ll take care of assigning the dreadnought and battlecruisers going,” replied Jeremy. “Give me ten minutes and I’ll be ready to go.”

-

A few minutes later on board the New Horizon, Rear Admiral Barnes listened as Kelsey described what she and Jeremy wanted done. She was also concerned about the time it was going to take for the new battlestation to arrive. There was another solution. They had the Accelerator Ring up and operating. They could use the battlestation they already had and use its gravity drive to move it into the Accelerator Ring and position it at the anomaly until the newer and larger battlestation arrived. It was something she was going to suggest to Fleet Admiral Strong. However, first she would assign an exploration dreadnought to the fleet Jeremy was sending to the anomaly and then she would speak to him about moving the battlestation.

-

Jeremy, Kelsey, and Jason arrived at the small lake to go swimming and have a picnic. Jeremy wanted this to be a special day since in another day or two they would have to return to their ships.

“There are Clair, Elizabeth, Mathew, and Andrea!” shouted Jason as he tumbled out of the air car and ran toward the small beach where the others were.

Jeremy looked over at Kelsey with a grin on his face. “Hope you’re ready to play in the sand.”

“I’ve got shovels and pails for the kids,” Kelsey replied as she began unloading several large baskets from the air car.

Jeremy walked over and picked up one of the baskets which was quite heavy. He suspected this one must contain food. Kelsey had one with towels and some other items. Walking over to the edge of the beach he noticed Kevin had a grill set up. “What are we cooking?” He already knew the answer.

“Hamburgers and hot dogs,” replied Kevin, grinning. “For once this is Katie’s idea.”

“She probably figured that’s what you would cook anyway,” replied Jeremy as he sat his food basket down.

“There are hot dog and hamburger buns in the basket,” Kelsey said as she headed to where Angel and Katie were at on the beach. They were sitting beneath a large beach umbrella. “There are also some chips and a few other things. Jeremy, if you will go back to the air car there’s another chest with drinks and more food.”

Jeremy nodded and headed back to the air car. Obviously the girls had been talking and had a menu planned. Reaching the car, he picked up the medium sized ice chest and returned to where Kevin and now Brace were standing.

“Any word from the exploration dreadnoughts?” asked Brace. Brace was drinking a cold beer.

“Some,” replied Jeremy as he sat the chest down. “It’s the same as what we found in our initial exploration. All the worlds we’re finding have been devastated by the Creevak.”

Kevin finished setting up the grill and then turned toward Jeremy. “I’ll be glad when that new battlestation gets here.”

“We all will,” replied Jeremy. “Guess we’d better head over and join the girls or we’ll all get in trouble for not helping with the kids.”

Kevin nodded with a bemused smile on his face. “I’m used to that. Katie says I leave all the disciplining up to her.”

Jeremy laughed as they walked over to the girls. The kids were already digging in the sand making sand castles. It was obvious Clair and Jason were already competing about who could make the largest.

Jeremy sat down in a lounge chair next to Kelsey to help watch the kids. As he leaned back, he was amazed at how relaxed he was. He had his wife, son, and best friends with him here at the beach. For today there could be nothing better.

Chapter Fourteen

Commander Zafron watched with satisfaction as another fleet of Originator dreadnoughts and battlecruisers dropped out of hyperspace. Rear Admiral Leanne Kane was in charge of the fleet. The fleet also had replacement ships for the ones Commander Zafron and Rear Admiral Mann had lost in the last battle with the Eternals. There was still almost daily conflict in Galaxy X-7294 between the Originator fleets now defending that galaxy and the Eternals. Fortunately, placing a battlestation in the galaxy as well as two full sized fleet bases were making a huge difference in the conflict. The Eternals had tried to attack the battlestation and lost nearly a third of their fleet. Since then they had left the battlestation and the bases alone.

“What’s the plan?” asked Rear Admiral Mann. She had come over to the Dominator to meet with Commander Zafron.

“Fleet Admiral Strong has ordered us to move on to Galaxy X-7295. We’ll have three full sized fleets to retake that galaxy from the Eternals. He’s hoping to make it appear as if we’re making a substantial effort in this section of space to extend the influence of the Originators.”

“How soon?” asked Hailey. Her fleet was ready and all the repairs from the previous battle were complete.

“We leave the day after tomorrow. Rear Admiral Kane brought replacement ships for the ones we’ve lost. It will take us three days to reach Galaxy X-7295. Preliminary surveys indicate the Eternals have set up a base with a shipyard in star system Z-475X233.  We’re going to try to take that base and shipyard. There are several ships accompanying Rear Admiral Kane’s fleet which contain Marines and combat robots. We’ll take out whatever Eternal ships are in the system and then neutralize the shipyard and the base they have on the planet. The Marines and combat robots will be responsible for clearing out any Eternals or Eternal warrior robots.”

“The fighting could be very intense,” pointed out Hailey. “I’ve seen videos of those warrior robots in action. They’re quite deadly.”

“Our new combat robots have been modified to take on the Eternals’ warrior robots,” replied Commander Zafron. “I’m sure if given the opportunity they can take the shipyard as well as the base on the planet.”

Hailey looked at the viewscreen showing the ships of Rear Admiral Kane’s fleet. “Are we going to try to capture any Eternals?”

Commander Zafron’s eyes narrowed. “We’ll try but they will most likely fight to the death. We’re not going to go out of our way to capture any.”

Hailey nodded. She was in full agreement. Eternals were powerful fighters and any effort to capture one would only result in more deaths. “I’ll return to my flagship and begin making preparations. I’m sure both of us have crewmembers on the battlestation who will need to be recalled.” The battlestation had recreation facilities which weren’t available on the ships of the fleets. It allowed the crews to relax and unwind before going out on the next mission.

-

Commander Zafron watched as Rear Admiral Mann left the Command Center to go to her ship. For a Human she was a brilliant military commander. Zafron sat down in his command chair. It had taken him several years to become accustomed to working with the Humans and the Altons. All his life he had believed the Originators were the most brilliant race in existence. He still did, but there were some very good Human scientists and the Altons were almost on a par with his own people. Over time working with these two races had forced Zafron to reevaluate his feelings toward other sentient beings.

“I would propose we send several of our battlecruisers in stealth mode to observe the target system,” said Kazak. He stood just in front of Zafron wearing his bright red military uniform. The tall AI was dedicated to combat and defending the Originator race.

Commander Zafron nodded. “See to it. Send the ships early tomorrow. That will give them sufficient time to make detailed scans of the system before we arrive with our battlefleets.”

Kazak had served him well over the years though he had been corrupted for a period of time by programming inserted by the Defenders of Zorn. That had been removed and now Kazak was back to his old self and a faithful servant of the Originators. There had been a time when Kazak had actually commanded the Dominator while Commander Zafron slept in stasis. Zafron had a lot of trust in the military AI.

Pressing several icons on the command console in front of him, Commander Zafron began planning his attack on the Eternal shipyard and base. There was no doubt once the attack was launched, the Eternals would begin sending reinforcements to prevent the Originators from taking Galaxy X-7295. Commander Zafron was determined not to be driven out of the galaxy. It was one of the reasons he wanted to capture the Eternals’ shipyard and base. Leaning back in his command chair, Zafron began studying what they knew of the Eternals’ defenses in the target system. There was considerable planning to do before the fleets were ready to depart.

-

Rear Admiral Hailey Mann was back on board the Victory. She had already informed Commander Sutherland of the impending attack. Messages had been sent to the battlestation recalling all personnel. They had until the middle of the day tomorrow to report back to their ships. That would give everyone one final night on board the battlestation.

Going to her quarters, she took a long hot shower and then put on a comfortable robe. She sat down behind her desk and began studying what was known of the target system they were going to attack. The shipyard in the system was very large and appeared to be heavily armed. There was a big base on the surface of the planet comprised of a spaceport and numerous buildings. The planet itself was habitable with Earth normal gravity and atmosphere.

Relaxing in her chair, Hailey recalled the last time she had been on Earth. It was several years ago and she had been at a large resort in the Bahamas. A week of snorkeling, swimming, and just laying out on the beach. With a deep sigh, Hailey wondered what Earth would look like after the Eternals were through with it. She hoped the attack could be stopped but the Eternals controlled a massive warfleet, much larger than what the Originators possessed. Looking back at her computer screen, she began to make a list of targets her fleet would need to strike if they wanted to take this system from the Eternals.

-

A number of days later Commander Zafron watched the tactical display as the three fleets entered Galaxy X-7295. They slowed after dropping out of intergalactic hyperspace to regular hyperspace speeds. It would take them fourteen more hours to reach the system containing the Eternals’ shipyard and planetary base. Galaxy X-7295 was an Elliptical galaxy, an older one with the brightest stars in the center. The system they were heading toward was three fourths of the way out from the center where there was a cluster of brighter stars. These stars were younger than most of the others in the galaxy. Looking at the stars in front of them the entire galaxy seemed to have a tinge of red.

“It’s an older galaxy,” explained Kazak. “It’s the oldest one in this cluster of fourteen galaxies.”

Commander Zafron nodded. In a galaxy as old as this one there would be little new formation of stars. It was past its prime and gradually receding toward darkness. However, it would still be billions of years before the stars actually went dark. It took stars a very long time to die.

“Keep a careful watch on the sensors,” ordered Commander Zafron. “This galaxy should be full of Eternal ships and I don’t want them to detect us before we launch our attack.”

“Sensors are currently clear,” reported Captain Grayson.

“We’re trying to keep our distance from star systems,” added Kia from Navigation as she carefully plotted their course.

Commander Zafron looked at his command console showing the current status of the Dominator. The ship was in perfect condition with all departments operating at optimum levels.

“All ships are to maintain minimal communications unless notified otherwise,” ordered Zafron. He didn’t want to risk the Eternals detecting any communication between the ships of the three fleets.

“Message sent,” replied Captain Franklyn.

Zafron looked around the Command Center. Everyone was doing their jobs. There were Humans, Originators, and AIs in the large room. The Dominator had once been a research ship seeking the cure for the deadly pathogen, which had struck down the Originators. Now it was a ship of war!

-

Hours passed as the three fleets closed on their target system. Several times Eternal warships were detected on the long-range scanners. Each time the fleets deviated from their course to avoid detection. Finally system Z-475X233 appeared ahead of the fleets.

“We’ll be detected as we get nearer to the system,” said Commander Sutherland. “The shipyard as well as the base will be on the lookout for Originator vessels.”

Hailey knew Commander Sutherland was right. “It can’t be avoided. We’re going to go in fast and take out all the Eternal warships in the system. Then we’ll hit the shipyard and take out its weapon emplacements. Once that’s been done the Marines and combat robots will go in.”

“What if the Eternals blow the shipyard rather than risk it being captured?”

“There’s a chance,” admitted Hailey. “That’s why the Marines will be in full combat gear for a space battle. They will be enclosed in their combat armor and will be able to survive if the station decompresses.”

“Hyperspace dropout in twelve minutes,” reported Kia.

“The Eternals could detect us at any time,” added Commander Sutherland as his eyes shifted to the tactical display now beginning to show information about the system. The two battlecruisers sent ahead had already transmitted back valuable tactical information.

“Detecting numerous Eternal warships in the system,” reported Captain Grayson as his hands flew over his sensor console making adjustments.

“Take us to Condition One and prepare for combat,” ordered Hailey, leaning forward in her command chair. She could feel her pulse starting to race as they would soon be involved in battle.

Red lights began flashing and klaxons were sounding as the crew rushed to their battlestations.

“Condition One is set,” reported Commander Sutherland.

“Weapons are hot,” reported Linda Marks from Tactical.

“Eternal ships are beginning to move,” reported Captain Horatio Adams. “We’ve been detected.”

Hailey nodded. That was to be expected. “Let’s see how many Eternal ships we can take out or disable as soon as we drop out of hyperspace. Use of dark matter missiles is authorized.”

-

In the Command Center of the shipyard, Admiral Brael Lydol looked up in surprise as alarms on the sensor console began to sound.

“Originator ships have been detected,” reported the Eternal in front of the console. “Long-range sensors show three fleets inbound.”

Admiral Lydol stood up and walked over to the sensor console, staring at the red threat icons now showing. “Sound the alarm and have our fleet prepare to intercept.” Lydol had twelve hundred Eternal battlecruisers in the system. The shipyard was also heavily armed. “Send out the alert to our other fleets in this galaxy. I want all of them to respond to this threat.”

“Most will take several days to get here,” replied the communications officer. “By then the battle should be over.”

“I am aware of that,” answered Lydol. “However, if the Originators succeed in eliminating our fleet, the weapons of this shipyard should be able to hold off the enemy vessels until more of our ships can arrive.”

Lydol returned to his command chair. The inbound enemy ships were now showing on the main tactical display. It was obvious from the number of ships the Originators were committing to this battle that they intended to destroy the defending Eternal fleet as well as the shipyard and the planetary base. Lydol was determined not to allow that to happen.

-

“Four minutes to hyperspace dropout,” reported Commander Sutherland. “The Eternals are gathering their ships around the shipyard. Current count is an estimated twelve hundred battlecruisers.”

Hailey nodded. “We’ll outnumber them considerably. I want our ships to fire in groups of five. One dreadnought and four battlecruisers will coordinate their fire on the enemy ships. The remaining battlecruisers will spread their fire out across the Eternal fleet.” Hailey knew the Eternals had a slight advantage in firepower due to the size of their warships. Hailey planned on neutralizing that by firing in ship groups of five. That would more than even up the disparity in firepower between the Originator ships and the Eternal vessels.

“Commander Zafron is suggesting we hit the Eternal ships and shipyard from three directions,” reported Lieutenant Denise Sparks. “He’s sending coordinates of where he wants us.”

“Tell him we’ll be at our assigned position,” replied Hailey.

“Two minutes to hyperspace dropout,” reported Caria.

“I want weapons firing as soon as we drop out of hyperspace,” ordered Hailey. Hailey knew in this type of engagement seconds mattered.

“All three fleets should drop out of hyperspace within a few seconds of one another,” added Commander Sutherland. “By attacking from three directions we’re forcing the Eternals to divide their fire and preventing them from bunching up their ships into a more defensible formation.”

Hailey’s eyes shifted to the tactical display. It was now showing the Eternal shipyard and warships in much more detail. They would have a five to one advantage in ships and nearly a two to one advantage in firepower.

“Dark matter missiles loaded in the launch tubes,” reported Major Marks. “All battlecruisers in our group of five will hit the same Eternal warship.”

“Just don’t hit the shipyard,” cautioned Hailey. “We want to capture it intact.”

The two minutes passed and the Victory emerged from hyperspace.

“Energy shield is up and weapons are firing,” reported Major Marks.

On the main viewscreen, the Eternal shipyard was visible as well as scores of enemy ships. Brilliant explosions began to march across the Eternal fleet formation as dark matter and antimatter missiles struck their energy screens.

Almost instantly the energy shields on several Eternal vessels failed and both vessels exploded as dark matter missiles ripped the ships apart.

Hailey felt the Victory vibrate slightly as several Eternal energy beams struck the ship’s energy screen. She glanced over at Major Marks.

“Shield is holding at 92 percent.”

Hailey nodded. She looked back at the viewscreen as the battle intensified.

-

The three attacking fleets had eight hundred dreadnoughts and six thousand battlecruisers forcing the Eternals to spread out their weapons fire. Space became lit up from the flurry of explosions sweeping across all four fleets. The Eternals were launching 100-megaton antimatter missiles while the Originator ships were returning fire with 100-megaton antimatter missiles and the more powerful 400-megaton dark matter missiles. Both sides were using various types of energy beams trying to find weak spots in energy shields. Occasionally a weak spot would be found and when that happened the unfortunate warship was blown apart almost instantly.

-

Originator Admiral Lydol was feeling confused. The enemy were concentrating their fire on his ships and only a few energy beams had been directed at his shipyard. “Launch antimatter missiles and fire our energy beams. Concentrate our weapons fire on their dreadnoughts.” If the enemy were not firing on the shipyard, he was going to make them pay for that error in their strategy.

Around the massive shipyard, dozens of missiles hatches slid open and antimatter missiles began launching. Energy beam turrets rotated and began firing upon the approaching Originator battlecruisers.

-

Eternal battlecruisers turned broadside to bring more weapons to bear. They opened fire with numerous energy turrets while antimatter missile after missile blasted away from the ships targeting the inbound Originator vessels. Energy beam fire from the battlecruisers slammed into the main part of an Originator dreadnought, setting off massive explosions and hurling glowing debris into space. The top section of the ship exploded sending more debris hurtling away from the ship. Secondary explosions began blowing out huge sections of the hull. At the same time two Eternal antimatter missiles arrived, turning the stricken dreadnought into a miniature nova and leaving only glowing remains behind.

An antimatter missile slammed into the stern of an Originator battlecruiser, leaving the ship powerless and helpless in space. Eternal energy beams quickly riddled the vessel leaving a drifting and lifeless hulk. Other Originator ships were dying as well. The sheer number of weapons being fired were overwhelming energy shields and killing ships. The battle was intense as well as brutal.

-

In the Eternal fleet ships were dying as well. Missile fire as well as energy weapons fire were knocking down shields leaving them open to attack. Throughout the defending Eternal formation, battlecruisers were exploding as deadly weapons fire tore them apart. The entire Eternal defensive front seemed to be on fire. Dozens of nova-like explosions marked the location of dying ships. However, so far the Eternal battlecruisers were preventing the attacking fleets from breaking through to the shipyard.

-

On board the Dominator, Kazak stood nearly motionless as he directed the fire of the ship’s blue energy spheres. He was using the spheres to strike the densest part of the Eternal fleet formation. Numerous Eternal vessels had already been reduced to black space dust with more in the process of being annihilated. On the main viewscreen, the blue spheres could be seen striking the Eternal vessels, normally two per ship to make the destruction occur faster. Kazak felt no remorse for the pain he was inflicting on the Eternals. To die from the blue energy spheres was a gruesome death as the very body cells of the Eternals were turned into black dust.

“Continue to fire,” ordered Commander Zafron as he directed the three fleets. “Try to avoid hitting the shipyard.” Even though all the ships were aware of that command a few energy beams were still inadvertently striking the shipyard.

“We’re taking a lot of fire from the shipyard,” reported Captain Grayson. “Energy beam fire as well as antimatter missiles.”

“I’m aware of that,” replied Commander Zafron. “As soon as we’ve destroyed the Eternal fleet, we’ll move in closer and attempt to take out their weapon emplacements. We need that shipyard for a base in this galaxy.” Zafron knew by not firing on the shipyard it was costing him some ships. However, in order to maintain control of this galaxy he needed the shipyard captured intact.

-

The Dominator shook violently as it was struck by several antimatter missiles but the ship emerged from the explosions unscathed with its weapons still firing. Around the Dominator dreadnoughts and battlecruisers were pouring their fire into the Eternal fleet.

An Originator battlecruiser blew apart as its shield failed. A dreadnought was under heavy fire from several Eternal vessels when an energy beam penetrated, blasting out a large hole in the hull. Several more beams penetrated opening up numerous compartments to space. Then a violent explosion shook the ship, breaking it in two. Eternal antimatter missiles quickly turned both sections into brilliant fireballs of raging energy.

The Originators firing in five ship groups were consistently knocking down the energy shields of the Eternals. The Eternals were losing ships at a two to one rate over the Originators. Very slowly the Eternal vessels were being forced back toward the shipyard.

-

Admiral Lydol stared stoically at the tactical display as well as a series of viewscreens showing the battle. It was obvious his forces were losing. The Originators had too big of an advantage in warships. “How soon before our first reinforcements arrive?”

“At least six hours but no major fleets for at least thirty,” replied the communications officer.

Lydol knew by then his fleet, the shipyard, and the planetary base will have been destroyed. The firepower from the Originator fleets was far greater than he had expected. “Continue to fire our weapons. We must take as many Originator ships with us in death as possible. We are the Eternals and we shall die for our Empire.”

-

Hailey was thrown forward against her restraints as the Victory was struck by numerous antimatter weapons and energy beams. Several alarms began sounding and red lights started appearing on the damage control console.

“We had two energy beams penetrate the screen and strike the hull,” reported the damage control office. “We have a large hull breach at brace seventeen, sector four. My board is showing two compartments open to space. Emergency bulkheads have engaged and the compartments are now sealed off.”

“Casualties?” asked Hailey.

“Two crewmembers, both AIs,” reported Commander Sutherland as he listened to reports coming in.

“Energy screen is back up to 83 percent and rising,” added Major Marks.

Hailey turned her attention back to the battle. Most of the Eternal ships had been destroyed and the few surviving ones were backed up nearly to the shipyard. The Dominator moved forward and was using its blue energy spheres to destroy the last vestiges of the Eternal fleet. As Hailey watched it only took a few minutes to turn the last Eternal battlecruiser into drifting black space dust. She shuddered slightly, glad she was not on the receiving end of one of the blue energy spheres.

“Eternal fleet destroyed,” confirmed Commander Sutherland.

“Commander Zafron is ordering all dreadnoughts forward. Energy beams only are authorized. We’re to fire on the shipyard’s weapon emplacements until all have been eliminated. Once they have, the Marines and combat robots will be sent in.”

“Take us in,” ordered Hailey. “Let’s finish this up before more Eternal warships show up.”

-

The Victory surged forward along with the other surviving dreadnoughts of her fleet. Energy beams began to fire at the shipyard trying to penetrate the protective energy shield. At the same time the shipyard was replying with more antimatter missiles and its own energy beams. The battle was far from over.

-

“Dreadnought Vincent reports heavy damage,” reported Lieutenant Sparks.

“Put the Vincent up on the viewscreen,” ordered Hailey.

On the viewscreen, the Vincent appeared. It was under heavy attack and already numerous compartments had been holed, leaking atmosphere into space. Several fires could be seen raging deep inside the vessel. As the atmosphere was depleted the fires flickered and then went out. Secondary explosions were shaking the ship.

“Order the Vincent to pull back,” commanded Hailey, leaning forward in her command chair.

“They’re trying,” reported Sparks. “But their sublight drive has been hit and they’re trying to move back using their remaining maneuvering thrusters.”

An antimatter missile struck the bow of the ship, causing the entire vessel to vanish in a brilliant explosion. When the explosion died away the front third of the ship was missing and the rest was a mangled wreck.

“They’re gone,” said Commander Sutherland in a subdued voice.

Hailey let out a long and deep sigh. She wondered if capturing this shipyard was going to be worth the cost. “Change the viewscreen back to show the shipyard.”

Looking at the viewscreen, Hailey saw a few energy beams were now penetrating the weakening screen of the shipyard. Weapon emplacements were being blown apart and missile tubes were being fused shut. Over the next few minutes the weapons fire from the shipyard gradually diminished and then finally came to a stop. A few well-placed shots from the Dominator had destroyed most of the station’s emitters, which powered the shipyard’s weakened energy shield. It was now defenseless and ready to be boarded.

“Assault shuttles are launching,” reported Captain Adams. “Marines and combat robots are going in.”

“They’ll have to breach the hull,” said Commander Sutherland. “Or blow some of the cargo hatches.”

-

On board the shipyard, Admiral Lydol studied the viewscreens as well as the damage done to his command. All of his battlecruisers were gone as well as the weapons emplacements on the shipyard. The shipyard itself had only suffered minor damage.

“We’re detecting shuttles approaching us,” reported the sensor officer. “I believe they’re going to board us.”

Now the Originators’ tactics began to make sense. “They want to capture the shipyard. Activate our warrior robots. We’ll make them pay for every section of this station. Also, set up four antimatter warheads to detonate upon my command. I will not allow this shipyard to fall into enemy hands. We are the Eternals and we shall not surrender.”

-

Across the station, storage holds opened and hundreds of warrior robots exited, taking up defensive positions throughout the shipyard. If the Originators came on board, they were going to pay a heavy price.

-

Captain Derrick Young waited anxiously as his assault shuttle neared the Eternal shipyard. He had ten Marines on board and twenty combat robots. There were nine other shuttles similarly manned. All would be docking close to one another. Once their shuttles were unloaded ten more shuttles would dock and unload their Marines and combat robots. Derrick had no idea what they would be facing once they boarded the station.

“Preparing to dock,” reported the pilot as the shuttle made contact with the station. “Activating breaching charges.”

There was a large boom and a vibration passed through the hull. Then the ramp slid down amid an influx of smoke.

“Everyone out!” shouted Captain Young as he held his energy rifle at the ready.

Five combat robots exited the shuttle followed by the Marines and then the rest of the robots. Instantly one of the combat robots staggered back with a large hole burned though its chest.

“Return fire!” ordered Captain Young.

Using the sensors in his combat armor Young saw several Eternal warrior robots in the corridor firing energy beams at his Marines and combat robots. The combat robots began returning fire and quickly eliminated the two Eternal robots.

“Move out!” ordered Young. He wanted to meet up with more of his Marines who were on the other shuttles. Behind him the shuttle ramp raised back up and two of the combat robots applied a temporary seal over the hole in the hull.

Down the corridor there was another explosion and soon more Marines and combat robots poured in.

“Secure the corridor,” ordered Captain Young. “We have more Marines and combat robots inbound. As soon as they arrive we’ll move out and begin securing the shipyard.”

Several minutes passed and soon two more shuttles docked. The temporary seals were removed and more Marines and combat robots emerged.

“We’ll leave two combat robots at each shuttle to keep it secure,” ordered Captain Young. There was also a pilot and communications officer still on board the shuttles. Both were armed. “Let’s move out.”

The four squads began moving down the corridor to begin securing the station. Caption Young knew there were other squads in other sections of the shipyard doing the same.

For the first few minutes everything was quiet. Captain Young began to wonder if there were only a few of the Eternals’ warrior robots on board. Suddenly energy beam fire erupted in front of him. A swarm of Eternal warrior robots appeared from an adjacent corridor and began charging toward the marines and Originator combat robots.

“Fire!” shouted Sergeant Tucker, who was with one of the other squads of Marines.

Energy beam fire quickly broke out between the two opposing groups. There was little to no cover in the corridor and the fight was brief but brutal. When it was over three Marines lay dead and five combat robots were down. In exchange they had taken out twelve Eternal warrior robots.

“I don’t like this,” said Sergeant Tucker over the comm. “What if there are a lot more of these the further into the station we go?”

Captain Young wondered about that as well. He quickly contacted some of the other platoons he knew were nearby. Two responded and from the third there was no reply. Both the platoons which replied reported running into stiff resistance. “Secure this corridor. We’re going to have to call in more Marines and combat robots.” Young quickly contacted his commanding officer on one of the two ships that held the Marines and combat robots and reported they were meeting stiff resistance and to send the reserves in. He also ordered the other two platoons to hold their current positions until they were reinforced.

Twenty minutes later another twenty Marines and forty more combat robots came tromping down the corridor. Sergeant Mendez was leading them. “Colonel Thomas says he can send one more round of Marines and combat robots if necessary.”

“Let’s hope it’s not,” replied Captain Young. “Let’s move out. This is a large station and we have a lot of area yet to cover.”

The squads moved out, clearing out sections of the station from warrior robots and the occasional Eternal who was leading them. The deeper into the station they went the higher the casualties mounted. Finally Captain Young called a halt and contacted Colonel Thomas, informing him they were going to need the final round of Marines and combat robots.

“They’re on their way,” replied Colonel Thomas. “I would recommend you continue to advance through the station before the Eternals mount a major attack against your forces. Your reinforcements will find you.”

“Yes, sir,” replied Young. “We’ll continue to advance.”

“If our scans from the ships are right we should be near Engineering,” reported Sergeant Tucker. “It’s only a few compartments over.”

The Marines continued to advance until they reached the engineering section. Captain Young called a halt. Two other Marine detachments were approaching Engineering as well. He wanted to attack from three directions and in coordination with the other two groups of Marines.

A few minutes passed until everyone was in position and then he passed the order over his comm unit to attack. Immediately the lead combat robots blew the large hatch at the end of the corridor and charged inside. Energy beam fire met them instantly, blowing them apart. More combat robots followed as well as Marines. The intensity of the weapons fire was the heaviest they had encountered so far. Marines and combat robots were falling but so were the Eternals and their warrior robots in the large chamber. More Marines and combat robots charged in from other hatches pinning the Eternals and warrior robots between the three forces. The room was filling with smoke and even a few small fires were burning.

Human combat robots and the Eternal warrior robots became involved in actual hand-to-hand combat, tearing limbs and smashing each other with their fists. Robots on both sides fell. There were six Eternals still fighting in the engineering chamber and all were armed with energy rifles. They were standing in the center of the carnage calmly firing at the Marines, picking them off one by one. Finally someone lobbed an explosive charge into their midst, knocking them all down. Even so, several still managed to stagger back up and kill two more Marines before being riddled with energy beam fire from the remaining combat robots.

Captain Young looked across Engineering seeing numerous dead Marines and destroyed combat robots. All the Eternals and their warrior robots were down and not moving.

“Captain, look at this,” said Sergeant Tucker, standing near what appeared to be an antimatter warhead welded to the floor.

Young looked at the warhead and shook his head. “We need to disarm it. I’m guessing whoever is in charge is planning on blowing the shipyard if it looks as if we’re going to take it.” Young quickly contacted all the other active platoons of Marines and informed them to be on the lookout for antimatter self-destruct charges. He also contacted Colonel Thomas and informed him of what they had found.

“I understand,” replied Colonel Thomas. “We’re focusing our sensors on the shipyard and will inform you and the other platoons of the locations of all antimatter devices. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of antimatter warheads near the missile tubes. I’m going to swipe some Marines from the dreadnoughts as well as combat robots to secure those areas. They should be arriving in the next twenty minutes.”

Young was pleased to hear about the new reinforcements. They had lost a lot of Marines and combat robots just securing Engineering. A few welcome reinforcements had arrived, increasing the number of Marines and combat robots he had available. He just hoped all the antimatter devices were secured in time or none of them would be getting off this shipyard.

-

Commander Zafron was monitoring the progress of the Marines on the shipyard. So far nearly 40 percent of it was secure. He was growing concerned about the possibility of whoever was in charge of the station setting off antimatter charges to blow the shipyard. To try to prevent that he had recommended to Colonel Thomas no one approach the Command Center. He didn’t think the Eternal in charge would destroy the shipyard until the Command Center itself was in danger.

For the next thirty minutes he listened as the Marines and combat robots moved through the station. The reinforcements had arrived and were securing the outer areas as well as searching for any hidden antimatter charges. So far one more had been found and Commander Zafron was expecting the Marines to find at least one or two more. The last would probably be in the Command Center.

-

Captain Young and his Marines had just finished taking what he thought was the auxiliary Command Center. The fighting had been intense and once more they had located an antimatter device. It was quickly disarmed and then destroyed.

“I hope that’s the last of them,” commented Sergeant Tucker. “That makes three so far.”

Captain Young nodded. “There’s probably one in the primary Command Center as well. That’s where I would put one to ensure the station would be destroyed.”

“So what do we do then?” asked Sergeant Tucker. “As soon as we assault the Command Center, the Eternal in command will probably set off that antimatter charge.”

Captain Young grinned. “We actually have an Originator coming over. He has a device which supposedly will cancel out an antimatter explosion if we can get it close enough.”

“How close?” asked Tucker with skepticism in his voice.

“Twenty meters,” replied Young.

“Twenty meters! How the hell are we going to get that close without them spotting us?”

Captain Young frowned. “I’m still working on that.”

-

Rear Admiral Hailey Mann was also listening to the Marines as they advanced through the shipyard. She hoped the price they were paying was worth it.

“I have the ship losses and damage reports,” reported Commander Sutherland.

Hailey turned her attention away from the fighting in the shipyard to her second in command. “How bad was it?”

“We lost twelve dreadnoughts, and seventy-four battlecruisers. Another eighteen dreadnoughts have minor to moderate damage. As far as the battlecruisers go we have one hundred and twelve reporting minor to moderate damage.”

Hailey nodded. It could have been considerably worse. The entire fleet had lost slightly less than three hundred ships compared to the twelve hundred the Eternals had lost. Hailey knew it was because they had numerical superiority in this battle as well as the Dominator and its blue energy spheres. At the end of the battle they had been destroying Eternal ships at a nearly six to one kill rate.

“Keep us at Condition Two, we’re still expecting Eternal reinforcements to arrive at any time,” ordered Hailey as she turned her attention back to the battle going on inside the shipyard. “I just hope we have the shipyard under our control before that happens.”

-

Captain Young, his Marines, and combat robots were standing in a corridor just short of the Command Center. Bralen Brill, an Originator scientist, had joined them along with another squad of Marines and six combat robots which had served as his escort. One of the robots was carrying a large electronic device.

“Will this prevent the antimatter warhead from detonating?”

“Briefly,” replied Bralen. “It will generate a prohibiting field that prevents an antimatter reaction. However, the field will only last ten minutes before the device burns out. Keep in mind this device is very experimental and we’ve only tested it in the lab.”

“So we have ten minutes to take the Command Center and disable the antimatter self-destruct device,” said Young.

“I’m sorry, but that’s the best we can do,” replied Bralen. “Get me to the antimatter device and I can disable it in less than a minute. I have the tools with me to do so.”

“Okay,” replied Captain Young. “Sergeant Tucker, get ready to move out.”

“We need to be at the hatch of the Command Center for the device to be effective,” added Bralen. “Its maximum effective range is twenty meters.”

“I know,” replied Young. “Sergeant Tucker, I need two combat robots to blow that hatch. Bralen, as soon as that hatch is blown that device needs to be operating.”

Bralen nodded. “The combat robot carrying the device knows what to do. Within ten seconds of the hatch being blown the device will be activated.”

Captain Young drew in a deep breath. He could feel his heart pounding. This either worked or they were all going to be dead. “Are we ready, Sergeant Tucker?”

“Yes, sir,”

“Okay, let’s do it!”

Two combat robots suddenly ran forward and planted explosives on the large hatch to the Command Center. They stepped back several meters as the explosives blew the hatch off its hinges. The two robots instantly charged inside. A third robot ran to the hatch and stepped to one side, activating the antimatter prohibition device. A loud hum filled the corridor.

“Move out!” shouted Captain Young as he led the rest of the Marines and combat robots to the hatch and inside.

-

Admiral Lydol was surprised at how quickly the Originator combat robots had blown the hatch. Smoke filled the Command Center and the twenty warrior robots inside began firing as Originator robots swarmed the hatch. With one final glance at the hatch seeing Human Marines starting to come in, he reached down on the console in front of him and pressed a large red button. He closed his eyes expecting to die instantly for the honor of the Empire but nothing happened.

“The antimatter self-destruct, there’s something wrong with it.”

Two other Eternals in the Command Center ran over to the device and began inspecting it. “It seems functional,” replied one of them.

Weapons fire was heavy in the Command Center as more Humans and combat robots made it through the hatch. Robots on both sides were falling as their bodies and processors were destroyed by energy weapons fire. Human Marines were falling to the floor, their armor penetrated by energy beams. The Eternals in the room were firing calculatingly at their targets but they began to fall one by one as the Human Marines and Originator combat robots targeted them.

-

Captain Young was inside the Command Center firing his energy rifle at the warrior robots. Smoke was thick in the room and he could hear screams of pain as his Marines were hit by energy rifle fire. He saw what looked like the Eternal commanding officer standing at a console repeatedly pressing a red button. Without hesitation he aimed his energy rifle and put a beam right between the eyes of his target. The Eternal looked surprised and then fell to the floor. Moments later the firing in the room came to a stop as the last warrior robot was disposed of.

“I found the warhead!” yelled Corporal Sullivan. “It’s over here.”

Bralen came into the room looking with distaste at the carnage and then hurried over to the warhead. He placed a device on the weapon and began entering commands. A section of the warhead opened and he reached inside and disconnected several pieces of electronics. “It’s disarmed,” he announced.

Captain Young felt immensely relieved. He immediately contacted Colonel Thomas and reported the disarming of the weapon.

“That’s the last one,” Colonel Thomas informed Young. “We’re not detecting any others besides the ones near the missile tubes and those are under our control. We have a few more sections of the shipyard to finish securing but it looks as if most of the fighting is done. Secure the Command Center and await further orders.”

Captain Young looked around. He had lost a number of his Marines and others were injured. “Sergeant Tucker, have the combat robots start policing this room. I want all the dead and destroyed robots moved out into the corridor.”

“Yes, sir,” replied Tucker as he began issuing orders.

Captain Young walked over and looked down at one of the dead Eternals. This was the first time he had actually seen one up close. He was eight feet tall and powerfully built and was completely bald. His form was muscular and seemed overpowering when compared to the slimmer forms of an Originator. The eyes were dark and cold. Young shivered and then turned away. This battle was over and they had won.

-

Commander Zafron was pleased when he heard the shipyard was now secure. He called in several Originator construction ships waiting just outside the system. They would instantly begin making the necessary modifications to turn the shipyard into an Originator base. All his fleets had to do was keep the Eternals away for a few more days. He also needed to take care of the Eternal base on the planet but he didn’t think that would be a problem since he now had control of the orbital space. If everything worked as he had planned in another few weeks this galaxy would be firmly under the control of the Originators.

-

Rear Admiral Hailey Mann watched the large viewscreen as two Originator construction vessels dropped out of hyperspace and began working on the shipyard. It wouldn’t take them long to fix the damage and then make the modifications for a Human and Originator AI crew. “Order all ships to make what repairs they can,” she told Commander Sutherland. “We’re going to be here for awhile.”

Hailey leaned back in her command chair. The long-range scanners were still showing no incoming threats. At least for the next few hours she could enjoy some peace and quiet. After that, the war would probably start again.

Chapter Fifteen

Jeremy was in the Command Center of the battlestation listening as reports from the various exploration groups continued to come in. They were very similar. All advanced civilizations in the satellite galaxy had been destroyed between eighty and two hundred and twenty years ago. The destruction had been thorough with no survivors in any of the systems the Creevak had targeted. A few primitive systems with civilizations just on the verge of space travel had been found but none with interstellar capabilities.

“It appears the Creevak have a method of detecting civilizations which have developed hyperspace travel,” commented Shilum Torre who was in the Command Center along with several other scientists.

“I’m not so sure,” replied Jeremy. “There are other methods of FTL travel besides hyperspace.”

Nomar Krill looked thoughtful and then spoke. “Perhaps it’s the power systems that are being detected. Any type of interstellar drive takes considerable power. An efficient fission or fusion power plant at the very minimum.”

“That would explain how these systems are being found,” replied Jeremy after thinking about the ramifications of being able to detect nuclear energy. “I’m also concerned the Creevak may make routine sweeps of this galaxy to ensure no new races have developed those technologies. If that’s true they could reappear through the anomaly at any time.”

Colonel Bryson who was the commander of the battlestation had been listening. “Do we have sufficient forces at the anomaly to prevent any further incursions by the Creevak? We have no idea of the power of their ships though we know they possess energy weapons as well as antimatter warheads.”

A look of concern crossed Jeremy’s face. Several members of his staff had suggested placing the battlestation near the anomaly believing the heavy weapons the station was equipped with could handle any Creevak ships which emerged. He was hesitant to commit the battlestation as that would require all of his ships to operate near the anomaly. It would also leave the Accelerator Ring vulnerable even though the Indomitable Class Battlestations would remain to defend it.

“Because of the reports from our exploration task groups I believe it would be wise for us to send more of our dreadnoughts and battlecruisers to blockade the anomaly just in case the Creevak return. I’m going to assign ten more dreadnoughts and twenty more battlecruisers to the ships already there. For the time being the battlestation will remain where it’s at.”

“We’re committing a major portion of our fleet to guarding the anomaly,” said Bryson with a frown. “I know it’s necessary but I’m still concerned it may not be enough. How soon before the new battlestation is ready?”

Jeremy sighed. “At least two more months and then there’s the transit time. It will take longer to get here because of its size and the power needed to activate the larger Accelerator Ring.”

“Are we going to request more ships?”

Jeremy nodded. “I’m going to ask for a full fleet as well as more Indomitable Class Battlestations.”

“What about the primary galaxy?” asked Rear Admiral Barnes. Kathryn was in the Command Center listening to the reports coming in as well.

Jeremy turned to face her. “Want to do some more exploring?” He knew they needed to find out if the Creevak had made it to the larger galaxy.

Kathryn nodded. “That’s why we’re here.”

“Get the New Horizon ready. We’ll leave the day after tomorrow.”

“We?” said Kathryn, raising her eyebrow.

“Yes, I’ll be bringing the Avenger as well as some other vessels. We need to find out if the Creevak made it to the primary galaxy. If they didn’t then they might not be as big a threat as we feared. There’s a possibility they don’t possess a space drive to allow them to travel intergalactic distances.”

“Should we take several of the other exploration ships?”

Jeremy considered this and then nodded. “Let’s take two more exploration fleets. I want the others to continue searching this galaxy. Maybe somewhere they’ll find some survivors who can explain what happened here.”

Looking at the Command Center’s main viewscreen, he could see the Accelerator Ring. It was inactive as there were no scheduled ships arriving or leaving. “I’ll tell Kelsey and the others of our plans.”

Kathryn nodded. She was used to having Kelsey, Angela, and Katie on the New Horizon. Particularly since Kelsey was her second in command. She was also still getting used to having children on board. At first that had worried her but the children were confined to the center section of the ship which was nearly indestructible. The section was also quite large with its own power sources, drive systems, and defenses if needed.

-

Later Kelsey listened as Jeremy explained his plans to explore the larger galaxy. They had extended their stay in the small house since Jason was really enjoying playing outside. He saw Clair and the others nearly every day and Clarissa stopped by several hours daily to go over his lessons. Jason complained about this saying he was on vacation and shouldn’t have to study. Jeremy and Kelsey were sitting on the back porch of the house watching Jason play on the large play set. He was currently going down the slide repeatedly.

“I’m going to miss this,” Kelsey said as Jason started climbing up the slide again. “This was almost like being home on the Dyson sphere.”

Jeremy had to agree. It had been very relaxing and something he needed. “We have tonight and most of tomorrow before we need to return to our ships. I’ve already told Kevin and the others.”

Kelsey watched Jason go down the slide to land on his bottom. She started to stand up and go check on him when he got up, brushed himself off, and headed up the slide again.

“I wonder what we’ll find in the main galaxy?”

“I don’t know,” replied Jeremy. “I’m hoping the Creevak never made it there. That’s one of the reasons I want us to go ahead and start exploring.”

Kelsey stood up and looked over at Jeremy. “Let’s go out to eat tonight since this might be our last opportunity. If you’ll watch Jason for awhile I’ll go get ready.”

“Sure,” replied Jeremy.

Jeremy stood up and went over to the swings. He knew Jason really liked it when he pushed him so he could go really high.

-

Several days later Jeremy stood in the Command Center of the Avenger ready to begin the exploration of the larger galaxy. The New Horizon and two other exploration dreadnoughts were also going. Each exploration dreadnought would have ten dreadnoughts and twenty battlecruisers to defend it.

“What’s the status of the ships we’re sending to the anomaly?”

They should arrive early tomorrow,” answered Ariel. “That will give us thirty dreadnoughts and sixty battlecruisers in case something comes through.”

Jeremy nodded. He had ordered the ships to open fire on any Creevak vessel that appeared from the anomaly. If they only came through one at a time then the forces he had there should be sufficient. At least Jeremy hoped they were.

“All ships are ready to enter hyperspace,” reported Aaliss. The tall AI was standing near Navigation watching the ship’s viewscreens.

“Let’s go,” ordered Jeremy.

All three exploration task groups would travel together to the larger galaxy and then split up to explore suitable stars which might hold habitable planets. Jeremy hoped they found the situation there much better than here in the satellite galaxy.

“Twenty seconds to hyperspace entry,” reported Lieutenant Striker.

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair. It was a five-day journey to the larger galaxy using the intergalactic hyperspace drives. It would give him and Rear Admiral Barnes plenty of time to map out their exploration plan.

“Hyperspace entry,” reported Striker.

Jeremy felt the ship transfer to hyperspace and rapidly accelerate. The viewscreen was adjusted to show the larger galaxy until it filled the screen. Its spiral shape was intriguing as it contained hundreds of billions of stars.

“We should have brought more exploration ships with us,” commented Kevin from his sensor console. “That’s a large galaxy.”

“Eventually we will,” replied Jeremy. “All we want to know for now is if the Creevak made it into the main galaxy.”

Jeremy planned on searching the larger galaxy for any signs of a Creevak presence. If they came across any destroyed worlds, it would be an indicator the Creevak had struck the larger galaxy as well. As of this moment they had no idea of how many ships the Creevak possessed or how large their Empire was in their own universe. It was frightening to Jeremy knowing they might be facing a menace from another universe with unknown technologies and resources. The Eternals were bad enough and now to discover the existence of the Creevak! He wondered what else awaited them in other sections of the universe.

“Is there any way to close the anomaly permanently?” asked Kevin. “Surely the Originators can figure something out.”

“It’s not that simple,” replied Aaliss. “Were talking multiverse science. Until we found the anomaly we didn’t even know if it was possible to travel from one universe to another due to the slight variance in natural laws that might be present. I spoke to several Originator scientists on board the New Horizon and they say the anomaly is an extremely rare occurrence. Neither had any idea as to how it was created. To create such a tear in the fabric of space would require a tremendous amount of energy. One of the scientists suggested the collision of two black holes in the other universe might have been the cause. It’s something we may never know.”

Jeremy gazed at the viewscreen and the target galaxy. “We need to find out more about the Creevak. That’s one of the reasons we’re still searching the satellite galaxy. We know a lot of fighting occurred there and I’m hoping we find a Creevak vessel at one of the battle sites.” Jeremy felt as if they were overlooking something, but he couldn’t figure out what it was.

Kevin looked at Jeremy. “That’s a long shot.”

“True, but it’s the only one we have for now.”

Ariel looked over at her two friends. “I calculate a 72 percent chance the Creevak traveled to the main galaxy. They could have made the journey even with regular hyperspace drives. It would have been a longer journey but it could have been done.”

“I agree,” added Aaliss. “The Creevak took great pains to wipe out all of the star traveling races in the satellite galaxy. They would have wanted to know what was in the larger galaxy as well.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair and folded his arms over his chest. He had spoken to Councilor Trallis before setting out on this mission. Construction of the new and larger battlestation as well as the Accelerator Ring were under way. He would feel better when he had the new battlestation parked near the anomaly. It would pretty well guarantee they could stop any attempted incursion by the Creevak. That would allow him to focus on the war with the Eternals.

-

Four days later Rear Admiral Barnes watched on the main viewscreen as the New Horizon and the rest of the exploration groups neared the spiral galaxy. It completely filled the viewscreen and the Astrometrics department was working overtime to determine some likely exploration targets. Her eyes wandered over to the tactical display showing the ninety-two green icons which surrounded the massive exploration dreadnought.

“Do we have our targets?” asked Kathryn, looking at Arian.

“Yes, Admiral,” Arian replied. “The Astrometrics department has recommended twenty-eight star systems to explore. If the Creevak came to this galaxy it’s highly likely they would have targeted the same systems.”

“What if we encounter a Creevak ship?” asked Kelsey.

This greatly concerned her as they had no idea of what the actual firepower of a Creevak vessel was. Fortunately, they were on the New Horizon, the most powerful ship ever built by the Originators. She had asked Clarissa to stay with the children in the center section. There were also a number of Belal’s Carethians in that section providing security.

“We’ll deal with that when and if it occurs,” replied Kathryn. “Keep in mind Fleet Admiral Strong and the Avenger will be with us on our explorations. I’m sure he will handle that situation if it arises.”

Kelsey knew Kathryn was right. Jeremy would go out of his way to make sure nothing happened to the New Horizon. He was very protective of her and the children.

“Admiral,” said Angela. “Fleet Admiral Strong is recommending we bring all ships to a stop and divide the fleet into its exploration task groups. We’re to give each task group a list of targets to explore. He also wants all three exploration ships to have a complete list of where the other ships will be going in case we lose contact.”

Kathryn looked over at Sible at the helm. “Bring the fleet to a stop and we’ll begin transmitting exploration coordinates to the other two exploration dreadnoughts.”

A few minutes later Sible reported all ships had dropped out of hyperspace and were waiting on instructions from the New Horizon.

Arian quickly transmitted the coordinates of the star systems each exploration dreadnought was to explore as well as a complete list of which stars each had been assigned.

“All ships report ready,” said Angela as confirmation messages came in over her communications station.

Kathryn nodded. “Then let’s begin. Sible, transmit the initial coordinates to all ships in our task group and take us back into hyperspace.”

Kelsey felt the New Horizon make the transit back into hyperspace and they were soon closing on the outskirts of the large galaxy. They were close enough now to make out individual stars. “What do you think we’ll find?”

“Hopefully some planets with inhabitants,” answered Kathryn. “There’s no point speculating until we begin our explorations.”

Kelsey nodded. She was glad Jeremy and the Avenger were close by; it made her feel more secure. As soon as she was off duty she would pick up Jason from his classroom. She strongly suspected both Jason and Clair would be full of questions about where they were going. They always were.

-

A few hours later Kelsey was off duty and watching as Clarissa taught the children their latest lesson. Today there were a few other children in the room as several other parents had asked if Clarissa could teach their children as well. Clarissa had been pleased with the request and quickly agreed.

Today’s lesson was in mathematics. Kelsey was amazed at how advanced the children were. They were already learning concepts she didn’t learn until high school and that was inside Ceres where the survivors from the first Human Federation of Worlds had set up a colony. She was surprised to hear Jason making correct responses to Clarissa’s questions.

Finally the lesson was over and the children were dismissed. Kelsey walked up to Clarissa and spoke. “I’m surprised at how well Jason is doing in math.”

Clarissa smiled. “Jason is very good at math. He seems to pick it up quicker than the others. Clair is really good with some of the science concepts. The others have their own subjects in which they seem to excel.”

Kelsey nodded. She wondered how much Clarissa had to do with which subjects the children were doing well in. Was it possible she was already training them for specific jobs in the future? Kelsey decided not to ask but it was something she was going to keep an eye on.

“We’ll be at our first exploration destination in the morning.”

“I heard,” replied Clarissa. “I plan on being in the Command Center when we drop out of hyperspace.” Clarissa recently was spending most of her time in the central section with the children. “Are you expecting any danger?”

“Who knows?” replied Kelsey. “This is an unexplored galaxy and after what we found in the satellite galaxy we don’t what to expect.”

“Perhaps the Creevak never made it here,” suggested Clarissa. “They may not have the ability to travel in intergalactic space.”

“Let’s hope not.” Kelsey was watching Jason and Clair who were sitting on a sofa and playing some type of game on their hand held computers. Both seemed very intent on what they were doing. She had a strong suspicion they were both playing the same game and against each other.

“They’re very competitive,” explained Clarissa, seeing where Kelsey’s eyes were focused.

Kelsey nodded. She wondered where this would lead in the future.

-

Early the next morning Kelsey was in the Command Center as the New Horizon and her escort fleet dropped out of hyperspace. Long-range scans had already detected a planet in the habitable zone but no signs of any spacecraft.

“The star is a K-Class with five planets,” reported Andram. “Planet two is in the liquid water zone but we’re not detecting any signs of water or life.”

Kelsey let out a deep sigh. She guessed it was too much to expect to find a star faring race on their first exploration. K-Class stars had extremely long life spans and were well suited for life to develop on its planets. This time it looked as if life had failed to take root.

“Detailed scans of the surface of planet two indicate it once held water, but that might have been several hundred million years ago,” added Arian.

“We’ll take scans of all five planets and then move on to target two,” said Kathryn. “Angela, inform Fleet Commander Strong we’ll only be spending a few hours in this system before we move on to the next one.”

Looking up at the viewscreen, Kelsey saw it now had a highly magnified view of planet two. It was slightly larger than Earth with a reddish hue similar to Mars. While it had an atmosphere, it was a very thin one. This planet was well past its prime.

“All planets die eventually,” explained Arian, seeing Kelsey’s gaze. “Some over their lifespans may develop several sentient races. We know from observation some have developed even more sentient life than that. Life is much more common in the universe than most people believe.”

Kelsey nodded. She knew many inhabited planets had a life span of nearly a billion years where it was possible for life to develop. It was perfectly feasible to see multiple races rise and fall during that type of timeframe.

“Captain Reynolds, make sure we take detailed scans of all the moons and large asteroids in this star system,” ordered Kelsey. “If there have been any civilizations in this system in the past, evidence of that could still exist on any of those.”

“I’m setting up the sensors now for detailed scans of the moons and larger asteroids,” replied Reynolds as his hands moved over his console.

Time passed as the New Horizon’s sensors reached out and scanned the system in detail. When the final scan was finished Andram turned toward Kelsey and Rear Admiral Barnes. “There are no signs of any recent mining or colony activity. However, there are a few indications that sometime in the distant past there may have been a sentient presence on several of the moons in this system. In multiple locations there are indications of mining and perhaps even a few colony domes. Those have long since collapsed and the mines have caved in.”

“Any idea of how long ago that might have been?” asked Kathryn.

“It could have been one hundred years ago or one hundred thousand. There’s no way of telling unless we go to the sites and take readings.”

“I don’t think that will be necessary,” said Kelsey. “Let’s go on to target two.”

“I agree,” said Kathryn. “Angela, inform Fleet Admiral Strong we’ll be going back into hyperspace and heading to target two. We’ll be ready to leave in ten minutes.”

-

On board the Avenger Jeremy listened as Lieutenant Lantz passed on Rear Admiral Barnes’ plans.

“Sounds fine,” replied Jeremy. “Lieutenant Striker, load the coordinates for target two into the navigation computer and then tie in with the other ships in the fleet.” That way they could all enter hyperspace together and stay in formation.

“What type of star is the next one?” asked Kevin.

“M-Class,” answered Jeremy. “M-Class stars are the most common and extremely long lived. It’s also been proven that many M-Class stars have Earth sized planets in the liquid water zone with plenty of water. Some have extremely deep oceans.”

“I wonder what life would be like living beneath a red dwarf?”

“The colors spectrum would be different,” Ariel answered. “Other than that vegetation and animal life would adapt. In our own galaxy there are numerous sentient races living on worlds orbiting M-Class stars.”

“Ready to enter hyperspace,” reported Lieutenant Striker.

“New Horizon is entering hyperspace,” added Kevin.

Jeremy nodded and looked over at Lieutenant Striker. “Take us into hyperspace and let’s see what this next system holds.” Jeremy was anxious to find out if the Creevak had made it to this galaxy. If they did then it did not bode well for his future plans to limit the Eternals’ expansion.

-

The trip to the M-Class star only took a few hours. Once they reached the system, the New Horizon dropped out of hyperspace followed by her escort fleet.

“Fourteen planets!” exclaimed Captain Reynolds, his eyes lighting up. “We have two in the liquid water zone; planets two and three.”

Kathryn leaned forward in her command chair. Perhaps they had hit the jackpot with this star. “Any signs of artificial constructs?”

Captain Reynolds eyes widened and then he nodded. “I’m picking up substantial wreckage around planet two. There are no active power sources.”

Kathryn felt a chill run down her back. “Can you identify the type of wreckage you’re detecting?”

“Ships and at least one orbital station. Can’t tell if it was a shipyard or research station.”

“Fleet Admiral Strong is ordering us to stay here while he takes part of the escort fleet in to investigate,” reported Angela.

“Acknowledged,” replied Kathryn. She watched the tactical display as the Avenger, four dreadnoughts, and ten battlecruisers entered hyperspace and headed toward the vicinity of the second planet. She hoped this wreckage was due to something other than the Creevak.

-

The Avenger and her escorts dropped out of hyperspace fifty-five thousand kilometers from the second planet. Its atmosphere was dark and gray with streaks of lightning.

“The planet’s in a nuclear winter,” reported Aaliss. “Sensors are detecting high radiation levels and what appears to be numerous blast marks on the surface, both nuclear and antimatter.”

“Was it the Creevak?”

Aaliss hesitated and then replied. “I believe so. The antimatter blasts are similar to what the Creevak used on the Varnons.”

“Damn!” said Jeremy, shaking his head. “I was hoping not to find that here. Are there signs of anything which might be dangerous to the fleet?”

“No, from the readings we’re getting from the planet this occurred about forty to forty-five years ago.”

“Lieutenant Lantz, inform Rear Admiral Barnes to bring her ship here. We need to begin searching the wreckage to see if we can find out what happened.”

“Message sent and confirmed,” replied Lantz.

“What now?” asked Kevin.

Jeremy turned back toward Communications. “Lieutenant Lantz, contact the other exploration fleets and inform them of what we’ve found. See if they’ve located anything similar.” The Avenger had a hyperspace communicator that could reach to the other two exploration dreadnoughts. Jeremy wanted to know as soon as possible if this was an isolated case or widespread.

While Jeremy waited for a response, he gazed at the viewscreen displaying the wreckage in orbit above the planet. It was obvious at this close range a huge shipyard had once orbited the planet. Even in its mangled shape several large docking bays were visible. “How much ship wreckage are we detecting?”

“Twelve hundred and fourteen ships,” reported Ariel. “However, many of them seem to be cargo and passenger vessels.”

“Any signs of Creevak ships?”

“No,” replied Ariel. “All of the ships are of similar design and appear to come from the same race.”

“I just received a message from the Deep Star,” reported Lieutenant Lantz. “They report finding wrecks in the system they just entered. They are requesting orders.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair as he thought it over. “Have them hold back for now until we’ve done some research here. Plan on at least a twenty-four hour delay before they’re given the go ahead to explore the wrecks. Also ask if there was an inhabited planet in the system they’re currently in.”

Lieutenant Lantz sent the message and then waited for a reply. Finally she received one. “They confirm there was an inhabited planet. It’s in a nuclear winter with high levels of radioactivity.”

“Tell them to take detailed scans of everything and I’ll contact them later.”

“Two worlds,” said Kevin, his brow wrinkled in a frown. “If we’ve located two worlds so quickly, the Creevak must have hit this galaxy hard and with deadly force.”

“We need to search some of these wrecks,” said Aaliss, her eyes focusing on Jeremy. “We believe this was done by the Creevak but we need confirmation. We also need to find out what level of technology is on board the destroyed ships.”

A few minutes later the New Horizon and the rest of the fleet’s warships dropped out of hyperspace. Immediately the New Horizon began launching shuttles to begin investigating the wrecks.

“Rear Admiral Barnes is sending AIs, Marines, and some combat robots with each shuttle,” reported Lieutenant Lantz.

Jeremy nodded. It was a good precaution to take. “Keep me informed if there are any problems.” Jeremy was beginning to fear the Creevak menace was far greater than he had believed.

-

For two days the research teams searched the wrecked spaceships in orbit and in other sections of the star system. All ships had suffered major damage and once again, there were no signs of any crewmembers. Computer hard drives were removed and their files transferred over to secure computers on the New Horizon.

“It’s nearly the same as with the Varnons,” Camlin informed everyone in the large conference room. “The Creevak appeared with massive fleets and began attacking the civilized worlds on the fringe of this galaxy. All attempts at communication failed, leaving no choice but to resist. The battles were large and very brutal. Invariably they ended with the defenders being destroyed and their worlds annihilated.”

Kelsey shook her head, visibly shaken by the report. “How can they be like that? They’re killing innocents!”

“The Eternals do the same,” pointed out Nomar. “The only difference is they tend to reduce populations and not eliminate them. But they too kill many innocents.”

“How much of this galaxy did the Creevak invade?” asked Kathryn.

Camlin was slow to reply as she used her neural implant to access more data. “Unknown. This race, which we now know called themselves the Trill, were aware of over a dozen other attacks before their world was destroyed.”

“Both of our other exploration ships have found destroyed worlds,” added Kathryn with concern in her voice. “We need to find out just how far the destruction in this galaxy extends.”

Jeremy was in agreement. “We must travel deeper into this galaxy and get away from the periphery. I can’t believe the Creevak destroyed all the intelligent races in this galaxy.”

Alarms suddenly began sounding and Major Weir’s voice came over the comm. “All stations go to Condition One. We have unidentified ships entering the system. Fleet Admiral Strong and Rear Admiral Barnes, please report to the Command Center.”

Kathryn looked over at Jeremy. “I wonder what’s up?”

Camlin looked unfocused for a moment and then she spoke. “We have a fleet comprising over one thousand ships that has just entered the outer sections of this star system. Long-range scans indicate they are heavily armed.”

“Aaliss, have Ariel take the entire fleet to Condition One and form up in a defensive formation around the New Horizon,” ordered Jeremy. Aaliss had accompanied him to the meeting while Ariel remained behind on the Avenger.

“Everyone to your stations,” ordered Kathryn. “We’ll finish this when this crisis is over.”

Kathryn, Jeremy, and several others hurriedly made their way to the Command Center which was just down the corridor. Going inside they saw a beehive of activity as the ship prepared for possible combat.

“What do we have?” asked Kathryn as she took her place in the Command Chair.

“We just detected them,” replied Captain Reynolds. “They came in fast and our sensors barely had time to detect them before they were dropping out of hyperspace. It’s possible they are using some type of stealth shielding.”

“Have they tried to contact us?” asked Jeremy.

“No, sir,” replied Angela.

Jeremy’s forehead wrinkled as he considered their options. “Start sending first contact packages and see if they respond.”

For several long agonizing minutes communications were silent and then a message starting coming in over Angela’s communication console. “We’re being instructed to hold our current position. Any attempts to leave orbit of the planet will be an indicator of aggression and will be dealt with accordingly. There will be no further communication until their fleet rendezvous with ours.”

“Angela, inform them we will comply. Aaliss, inform Ariel to complete the defensive formation and then have all ships hold position. I’m on my way over to the Avenger.”

“What are your plans, Admiral?” asked Kathryn.

“We’ll see what they want first. We’re in a system destroyed by the Creevak. From the shape of those ships they are not the Creevak but some other star faring race. We need to make peaceful contact and perhaps they can explain what happened here. However, if they attack, we will use all means at our disposal to defend ourselves including the blue energy spheres.”

Kathryn nodded. So far the New Horizon had never resorted to using that unstoppable weapon.

-

Jeremy and Aaliss left the Command Center to go down to the landing bay where a shuttle was waiting. Jeremy wanted to be on the Avenger if this turned into a combat situation. He trusted Rear Admiral Barnes to handle the New Horizon and keep his family safe.

-

Shortly Jeremy and Aaliss were back on the flagship and in the Command Center.

“Status!”

“Alien fleet is still approaching,” reported Kevin. “Sensors indicate we are looking at a fleet composed primarily of battlecruisers around eight hundred meters in length and either battleships or dreadnoughts at twelve hundred meters.”

“What are their power readings?”

“Advanced fusion power plants have been detected.”

Jeremy relaxed a little. All of the ships in the exploration fleet were powered by antimatter. “Let them come in and we’ll see what they want.”

Kevin pressed a few icons on his console and then reported. “At their current speed they will be here in fifty-nine minutes.”

“Take all ships to Condition Two but be prepared to re-initiate Condition One ten minutes before the expected arrival of the fleet.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair, gazing at the large tactical display. “Switch to a three dimensional hologram of the approaching fleet. I want to see their fleet formation.”

Instantly off to one side of the tactical display a large hologram of the approaching fleet appeared. The alien fleet was in a large wedge-shaped formation with its most powerful ships in the center.

“Keep the hologram activated,” ordered Jeremy. “I want to see if they change their formation as they get closer.”

-

For nearly an hour Jeremy watched as the alien fleet drew nearer. As it did its formation spread out, forming a larger wedge. He scarcely noticed when Ariel placed the fleet back at Condition One. He was busy studying the alien warships and trying to deduce what weapons they might possess.

“Ariel, can you predict what those ships might be armed with?”

“I’ve done some scans and from the sensor readings those ships are armed with heavy energy weapons and missiles. The missiles will most likely be fusion warheads with a maximum yield of 100-megatons or slightly less.”

“Can their weapons penetrate our triplex energy shields?”

“If they concentrate their fire they could knock down the shields on our battlecruisers, but it wouldn’t be easy.”

“Alien fleet is slowing down and coming to a stop ten thousand kilometers in front of us,” Kevin informed Jeremy.

“Should we try to contact them?” asked Angela.

“No,” replied Jeremy. “Let them initiate communications.”

“Detecting targeting sensors,” reported Kevin worriedly.

“Missile hatches are opening on their ships,” warned Aaliss.

“It could just be precautionary,” responded Jeremy. “Ariel, be prepared to fire all weapons if we’re fired upon.” Jeremy leaned forward in his command chair, sensing the growing tension in the Command Center. No one was certain what these new aliens would do.

-

The two fleets stayed motionless for nearly twenty minutes before Lieutenant Lantz indicated she had an incoming message from the aliens. “They’re demanding to know our intentions and why we’re going on board the wrecks.”

At least they’re not shooting at us, thought Jeremy. “Inform them we are a peaceful exploration fleet seeking knowledge as to what happened in this system. Tell them we know about the Creevak and what they did to the satellite galaxy.”

Lieutenant Lantz spent a few minutes sending the message and then once again it was time to wait for a reply. It wasn’t long in coming.

“They want to know how we know about the Creevak and where we come from.”

“Explain to them we were exploring the satellite galaxy and discovered what the Creevak had done there. We also found the anomaly they came through from another universe.”

Lieutenant Lantz sent the message and it wasn’t long before they got a reply.

“They want to know about this anomaly and if we’re certain the Creevak come from another universe. Their science indicates passage from one universe to another is impossible.”

Jeremy hesitated. It was taking too long to pass information back and forth this way. “Suggest to them we meet on our primary exploration ship where we can explain everything in more detail. Also tell them we’ll guarantee their safety. Send them a data file about the atmospheric conditions on our ships so they will know what precautions to take.”

Lieutenant Lantz sent the message and then waited. “They agree. They will send a delegation to the New Horizon. The delegation will have armed escorts.”

Jeremy nodded; he had expected that. “Tell them that’s fine.” Jeremy turned toward Ariel. “Ariel, you’re in charge of the fleet. Take no offensive action unless they start it first. Aaliss, you’re with me.” Jeremy then stood up and headed out of the Command Center followed by Aaliss. They were going back to the New Horizon.

-

Rear Admiral Barnes, Kelsey, Camlin, Arian, and Andram were in the large conference room waiting for the arrival of their guests. Two of Belal’s Carethians were standing guard duty outside in the corridor near the hatch. Arian had suggested to Rear Admiral Barnes it might be a good idea to show their visitors the ship had a number of different sentient races on board.

The hatch opened and Fleet Admiral Strong and Aaliss came in. They both took their seats and everyone waited expectantly for their guests. A report had already come in from the landing bay that an alien shuttle had arrived and a Marine escort was bringing them to the conference room.

“I wonder what they look like?” said Kelsey, her eyes showing curiosity. “We’re a long way out from our space.”

“There are a multitude of different sentient species,” answered Arian. “Some are very similar to those of us in this room and others are barely recognizable.”

The hatch opened and their guests came in. They were tall, nearly as tall as an Originator. Their heads were nearly triangular with large eyes, a prominent nose, ears, chin, and a mouth. The top of their head was covered with a short growth of hair. The aliens’ skin tone was a light green in color.

“Welcome,” said Jeremy, standing up and indicating for everyone to do the same. They were all wearing Originator language translation devices.

The tallest of the four aliens replied. “We are of the Galactic Union. The Galactic Union consists of all the civilized worlds of this galaxy. We must know what you have learned of the Creevak.” Their language was a little stilted, no doubt caused by the translation devices.

Jeremy gestured for everyone to sit down. Chairs were brought in suitable for their guests.

“We are from a galaxy millions of light years distant. We came here seeking allies in a war against a terrible enemy, one seeking to conquer all the galaxies of this universe. Already they have over ten thousand under their control.” Jeremy then explained what they had found in the satellite galaxy and had Aaliss show some videos of the destroyed worlds as well as the anomaly. “We were not expecting this and are very concerned about what happened in the small galaxy.”

“Yes, we are aware of what the Creevak did in the Makuul galaxy.”

“After seeing all the destruction in the satellite galaxy we came here to see if the Creevak had invaded and caused destruction in this galaxy.”

The aliens began talking amongst themselves and then the one who seemed to be in charge looked over at Jeremy. “We sent several exploratory missions to the Makuul Galaxy to see if it contained the homeworld of the Creevak. We found many destroyed planets but we did not locate this anomaly. Since we defeated them we have been expecting them to return in even greater numbers. The battles against the Creevak here in our galaxy were very costly in ships and beings. Many worlds were lost before they were defeated.”

“They still may return,” admitted Jeremy. “We are in the process of placing a large battlestation in front of the anomaly to prevent their return but it will be many days yet before the battlestation is ready and we can get it here.”

“Where do you come from?” asked the alien.

Jeremy spent the next hour explaining the war against the Eternals in more detail and showing videos of some of the battles. It was obvious the aliens were very impressed by the size of the ships, the numbers involved, as well as the weapons.

“We also have access to antimatter,” said one of the other aliens. “It is used in our more advanced ships. The fleet you see in front of you is a guardian fleet. We use fleets like this to patrol the outer regions of our galaxy nearest Makuul. If we had discovered you to be the Creevak, we would have summoned one of our more advanced fleets.”

“Do you have any captured Creevak ships in your possession?”

“No, unfortunately we do not. When we forced the Creevak out of this galaxy they either destroyed or took all of their damaged ships with them.”

Jeremy looked at the others. At least the majority of the races in this galaxy had survived. He was curious about the level of technology of the more advanced races. “Do you have a government or ruling council for this Galactic Union?”

“We do,” answered one of the aliens. “It’s a ruling council elected by representatives of all the worlds in our galaxy. It is led by the more civilized races.”

“Would it be possible for us to send a representative to meet this council?” asked Jeremy. “We have many questions we would like to ask.”

The aliens once more began speaking with one another. Finally the leader turned back to Jeremy. “We will allow one of your ships under escort to go to our capital planet. It is located near the center of our galaxy where several of our older races reside.”

Jeremy frowned. He knew which ship needed to go. It would have to be the New Horizon. It had all the diplomats and the majority of the scientists on board. He just hated sending Kelsey and all the kids on such a mission.

Kelsey must have sensed what Jeremy was thinking. “We’ll go. It’s what I built the New Horizon for and we have a lot of experience dealing with new races. We’ve had first contacts with hundreds of races over the last few years in the Originator-controlled galaxies.”

“We can handle this,” said Rear Admiral Barnes. “I’m sure we’ll all be safe on the New Horizon.”

Jeremy knew it would be important to have allies in this galaxy, particularly if the Creevak came through the anomaly again. The races in this galaxy had defeated the Creevak once and might be able to do so again with some help. They might also be able to help with the Eternals as the galaxy was already unified. “Very well. We’ll send the New Horizon.”

-

They spent another hour speaking to the aliens and making arrangements for the New Horizon to travel to the governmental capital of this galaxy. Jeremy just hoped they were doing the right thing. Kelsey seemed determined to go on this mission. With a deep sigh, he knew she was right. This was what they had built the New Horizon for and the people on board were experienced in dealing with this type of situation. While the New Horizon was gone he would return to the satellite galaxy. He needed to keep track of what was happening with the Eternals and their potential attack on the Human Federation of Worlds. He also needed to keep an eye on the anomaly.

Chapter Sixteen

On Gardell, the Council of Eternals was holding their final meeting before the fleet left to attack the Humans and the Altons. There was much debate over the size of the fleet needed due to the defenses found by Commander Zavold.

“We’re looking at substantial losses to eliminate the Humans,” reported Second Leader Queexel. “Also, we have no idea of what type of defenses the Altons may have or how many worlds we need to destroy.”

“Losses we can easily make up,” responded First Leader Fehnral. “We have already increased the fleet size to twenty-six thousand vessels. Surely that is enough. Our own computer estimates indicate a 92 percent chance of total victory.”

“That may be true,” spoke Second Leader Abross. “But we have no idea of how heavily some of the other Human worlds may be defended. What if they’re all like the one Commander Zavold found? Not only that, we have as yet to find an Alton world to determine their defensive capability. Our computer data may be incorrect as to our probability of victory.”

First Leader Fehnral was using his nanites to sharpen his thinking. It allowed him a much clearer train of thought. “You may be correct. We must not fail in this. I propose increasing the fleet size to thirty-one thousand vessels. That should be sufficient to overcome any defenses the Humans and Altons may attempt to mount.”

“How long will that delay our attack?” asked Second Leader Tarmal.

“Four days,” replied Second Leader Abross. “We should have more information about what we’re facing from the additional stealth ships we sent to the Human galaxy. The reports should begin arriving while the fleet is in transit. However, I recommend we send another ten thousand ships to take out the Altons.”

“That’s forty-one thousand ships total,” pointed out Second Leader Queexel.

“Adding another ten thousand ships will delay the launch of the fleet by another six days,” warned Second Leader Abross. “However, in order to be able to take out both the Humans and the Altons it may be wise for us to do just that. This is a menace to our Empire we need to deal with once and for all.”

“Very well,” replied First Leader Fehnral. “I believe we’re committing too many ships to this venture but in order to ensure victory I will agree to it.”

“Who will command the fleets?” asked Second Leader Barrant.

“There will be three admirals in charge of various sections of the fleet,” replied Abross. “That will allow us to attack three different targets at once preventing the Humans or the Altons from massing their forces.”

Second Leader Queexel still seemed dissatisfied with the attack plan. “What of the Originators? What if they commit a major portion of their fleet to the defense of the Humans and Altons? What then?”

“We don’t believe that is going to happen,” replied Fehnral. “The Originators seem to be concentrating their attacks around Galaxy 7295. They are making an all out push to bring that galaxy under their influence. We know they have at least three major fleets committed to that undertaking.”

“Let us hope that is correct,” said Queexel with doubt in his voice. “We must not underestimate the Originators or the Humans.”

Fehnral turned all of his attention toward Queexel. “That will not happen. Our nanites allow us superior strength as well as thinking. We have thought this attack through and discussed numerous possible scenarios. That is the reason we have increased the fleet size. Even today we have increased it again. We also believe the Humans are not aware we have discovered their location. The attack will be a complete and overwhelming surprise.”

“Let us hope so,” replied Queexel. “We are talking about forty-one thousand ships and crews. Even for us that would be a substantial loss if the Humans and Altons found some way to defeat us.”

“We are superior,” declared First Leader Fehnral. “This will be a decisive victory and it will eliminate our Human problem.”

After more debating and a few more adjustments, the plan was adopted and orders were sent to the fleets. In ten days they would set out for the Human worlds to destroy them.

-

In the New Tellus System, Admiral Tolsen was on board New Tellus Station reviewing the planned defense of the system with Admiral Crown and General Wilcox. They were in the large Command Center gazing at the viewscreens displaying various views of the space around New Tellus.

“We have eight asteroids in orbit fully armed and ready to defend the planet,” reported General Wilcox. “We have three thousand Talon fighters and two thousand Anlon bombers based on the asteroids. There is still some construction being done on the two asteroids we recently moved into orbit but all of that is expected to be completed in two more weeks.”

“What will you do with the battlecarriers?” asked Race. In the type of battle they were expecting fighters and bombers would be useless.

“They’ll be under the defense grid and their fighters and bombers will be used to intercept inbound missiles,” replied Admiral Crown. “There will be twenty of them as well as eighty light cruisers as escorts.”

On a viewscreen, one of the four forty-kilometer battlestations could be seen. It looked deadly with its array of energy turrets and missile tubes. The battlestation was painted dark black and protected by thick battle armor as well as a powerful energy shield.

“I’m glad we put four of those around New Tellus,” commented Race. “They’ll be a nightmare for the Eternals when they arrive. I seriously doubt if they’ll be expecting them.”

“So, what is your plan of battle?” asked General Wilcox.

Race grinned. “Destroy the Eternal fleet which attacks us here and then take my fleet through the Accelerator Ring to Earth. We’ll then wipe that fleet out and then go through the Accelerator Ring once again to Tau Ceti and engage the Eternals there.”

Admiral Crown smiled. “I wish I had your confidence.”

“We’ll win,” replied Race. “We’re using the Eternals’ overconfidence against them. They won’t be expecting the defenses they’re going to find here or at Earth. They also won’t be prepared for the number of Originator ships we’re going to commit. “There’s a chance we’ll have an advantage in ships if everything works as planned.”

“I’ve divided my fleet into two smaller fleets,” Admiral Crown informed Race. “Rear Admiral Becker will be in charge of one fleet and I’ll be in charge of the second. I believe we’ll operate much more efficiently that way.”

Race nodded. “I’ve spoken to the Originator in charge of the Dyson sphere in Shari space. He will be sending four hundred modern battlecruisers to New Tellus in a few more days. I would like to assign two hundred of them to each of your fleets. That will greatly increase your firepower.”

Admiral Crown nodded. “That will be much appreciated.”

Looking at one of the large tactical screens displaying the entire system of New Tellus, Race asked another question. “How are the patrols in the outer system doing?” Since detecting the Eternal battlecruiser, patrols in the outer regions had been greatly increased.

“We have several battlecarriers positioned at strategic locations,” answered Admiral Crown. “They’re using their fighters and bombers to run patrols across the outer regions. We also have a large number of light cruisers doing the same. If the Eternals try to sneak one of their stealth ships in again we’ll spot it.”

“We must be ready,” Race said. “I expect New Tellus to be the first system to be hit. If we can stop them here, then we have a good chance of stopping them in the rest of the Federation.”

Race looked at another viewscreen displaying an Indomitable Class Battlestation. It was in orbit of the planet surrounded by the massive defense grid composed of several thousand satellites armed with particle beam weapons capable of taking out inbound Eternal missiles. A number of them had been added to those already in place. Race was feeling more confident every day of being able to stop the Eternals here in the New Tellus System.

-

Later Race was on his way back to the WarHawk. Looking out the shuttle window, he could see the busy space around New Tellus. Everywhere he looked he could see spacecraft, shipyards, or defensive stations. The most impressive were the massive asteroid fortresses in orbit around the planet. Race let out a deep breath. He knew it wouldn’t be much longer before the Eternals showed up. Time was rapidly running out to prepare for their coming and there was still much that needed to be done.

-

In the Solar System, Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen was working on her fleet dispositions. Unlike New Tellus here she had two inhabited planets to protect as well as a number of inhabited asteroids and moons. It was driving her crazy trying to figure out how to protect everything.

“Maybe we don’t,” suggested Commander Braden MacLeod. “What if we evacuate most of the asteroid colonies and moon colonies to Ceres? It is heavily defended and the cities are located deep inside. The people could survive there until after the battle is over and then return to their own colonies.”

“It’s a good suggestion,” admitted Massie. “I’ll run it past Fleet Admiral Nagumo and see what he thinks.

“We’re coming up on Ceres now,” reported Falolt who was an Originator AI and had taken over the helm position on the Hera.

Massie turned her attention to the large viewscreen displaying the massive asteroid. It was the largest asteroid in the Solar System with a rough diameter of 950 kilometers. Inside was a huge space dock and several full-sized cities capable of sustaining millions of people. At the moment Ceres had a minimal population as most of its inhabitants had gone to the Dyson sphere with Councilor Barnes.

A few strikecruisers were on patrol around the asteroid. Massie knew the huge ship construction facilities inside the space dock were busy updating and building new ships for the coming battle. She had visited Ceres several times in the past but that was before most of the people left.

“How many people have gone through the Accelerator Ring?” Massie asked. She knew some had but not near as many as they had been hoping.

“A little over two hundred million,” replied Commander Macleod.

Massie shook her head. “There are over nine billion people in the Solar System. What are they thinking? If they stay here they could all die!”

“They don’t believe President Treadway when she tells them of the danger. You also have a number of Federation senators who are still claiming this is all a hoax to increase the military budget.”

“Senators Adams and Hanford from Serenity and Bliss,” said Massie, knowing who Commander Macleod was referring to. “What will they be saying when Eternal warships appear around their planets?”

“They’ll be begging Earth and New Tellus for help.”

Massie let out a deep sigh. “By then it will be too late. I’m afraid we’re going to lose both planets and even a few more.”

“Set a course for Jupiter; I want to inspect the settlements on Ganymede, Callisto, Io, and Europa.”

Massie knew there were nearly six million people living on those four moons. Mining on the moons of Jupiter was a big business and several large corporations were running around-the-clock mining operations. They made their bases in the domed settlements on the major moons though many of their mining operations were on the smaller moons orbiting the large gas giant.

-

Massie was in her quarters with papers spread all over her desk. She also had three computer screens she was using to bring up tactical information. No matter how hard she tried to cover all the colonies in the Solar System it kept leaving other areas too lightly defended. Her comm unit buzzed and Commander Macleod informed her they were coming up on Jupiter.

It didn’t take long for Massie to reach the Command Center. Stepping inside the hatch, she saw the gas giant on the ship’s main viewscreen. It was an awe inspiring sight. Even Jupiter’s red spot was visible though it was much smaller now than it had been in the twentieth century.

“Put us into orbit around Ganymede,” Massie ordered as she sat down in her command chair. “Change the primary viewscreen to show the moon.”

Almost instantly Ganymede appeared on the screen. Ganymede had a diameter of 5,300 kilometers with a minimal atmosphere. Massie knew there were considerable water ice deposits on the surface, which the domed cities used to produce air and water.

“What’s the current population of Ganymede?”

“Slightly over two million,” replied Commander Macleod. “The Selvin Corporation is the primary employer as they run the biggest mining operation in the Jupiter System.”

“How many people have left Jupiter for the Dyson sphere?”

Commander Macleod shook his head. “Very few. The Selvin Corporation is paying bonuses to everyone who will stay and continue working.”

Massie felt angry upon hearing this. “If we can’t defend these moons all of these people will die. There are only a few hundred defensive satellites in the entire Jovian System and only two small Type Two Battlestations. The Eternals will swat those out of the way as if they don’t even exist. Get a shuttle ready for me and some Marines; I’m going down there and speak to whoever is representing the Selvin Corporation.”

“Are you sure that’s wise?” asked Commander Macleod. “They may not agree to see you.”

Massie’s eyes narrowed. “Give me half a dozen combat robots as well. If I have to knock a few doors down that’s just what I’ll do.”

-

An hour later two shuttles from the Hera set down on the small spaceport outside of Ganymede Central, the largest domed city on the moon. When they reached the airlock to enter the dome there was quiet a commotion when the guards at the hatches saw the massive military robots.

“You can’t bring those things inside,” declared one of the guards, blocking Massie’s path.

Several Marines stepped up behind Massie, glaring at the guard.

“Do you think you can stop my entrance?” asked Massie, folding her arms across her chest. “I’m a rear admiral in the Originator fleet. I’m preparing to defend this system and President Treadway has given me the right to go anywhere and inspect anything in this system I want.”

The guards looked at each other and then stepped aside. As they went through the hatch, Massie noticed one of the guards using his comm unit to contact a superior. Massie grinned. She had always wanted to make a grand entrance.

Without hesitation Massie, her Marine escort, and the six combat robots headed toward the headquarters building of the Selvin Corporation. It was nearly a kilometer away near the center of the dome. This was the first time Massie had been inside one of these domes and she was greatly surprised. Gravity was Earth normal and the temperature was in the mid seventies. A gentle wind was blowing and there were even a few birds fluttering around in the green parks scattered through the city.

As they walked toward the headquarters building Massie noticed how everyone was making an effort to get out of her way. She even noticed a few uniformed officers clearing the street in front of them. They finally reached the large towering building that was the headquarters of the Selvin Corporation. Reaching the front doors, Massie found them locked from the inside.

“Should we break the doors down?” asked Sergeant Brice.

“No,” replied Massie as she spotted an intercom unit next to the large door. She stepped over and pressed the button on the unit. A voice instantly greeted her asking her to state why she was there. “I need to speak to whoever is in charge of the Selvin Corporation on Ganymede.”

“I’m sorry but Mister Flaxen is not seeing anyone today,” the female voice coming over the comm unit said. “You will have to come back another day. You will also need an appointment. Mister Flaxen is a very busy man.”

Massie kept her anger under control. “This is an emergency concerning the entire Federation and I must speak to Mister Flaxen immediately.”

“I’m sorry,” the woman said. “There can be no exceptions.” The comm unit went silent as the secretary cut the connection.

Massie blinked her eyes. Why were people so stubborn? “Sergeant Brice, please open the door for me. Use whatever force is necessary.”

Sergeant Brice motioned for one of the combat robots to come forward. “Open the door.”

The robot easily removed the door from its hinges, setting it over to the side.

Massie grinned and stepped inside. Once inside she saw a number of people sitting at desks staring in shock at her and the Marines behind her. The combat robots had remained outside as they would cause too much damage if brought inside the building.

“Sergeant Brice, leave one Marine with the combat robots, the rest of you come with me.” Massie stepped over to where a receptionist was trying to make herself look as small as possible. “I need to see Mister Flaxen. If he’s still not available I’ll bring my combat robots inside and begin tearing this building apart floor by floor until I find him.”

The secretary’s face turned pale and she quickly began speaking on her comm unit. “My Flaxen will see you now,” she said. “He also requests you leave your robots and Marines outside.”

“I’ll leave the combat robots outside and the Marines will stay here on the first floor. Sergeant Brice will accompany me to my meeting.”

The secretary spoke into her comm unit again and then looked up at Massie. “The elevators are over there. You need to go up to the twentieth floor. The secretary there will point you to the correct office.”

“Thank you,” replied Massie with a grin.

Massie and Sergeant Brice went to the indicated elevators and were soon on the twentieth floor. The secretary there politely led them to the correct door and opening it, gestured for them to go in.

Stepping inside Massie found they were in a lavishly furnished office with thick carpeting and expensive wood furniture.

“Rear Admiral,” said Flaxen, rising to his feet and indicating for her to take a seat in front of his desk. “I’m sorry for the misunderstanding. We don’t have military people paying us a visit very often.”

Massie sat down with Sergeant Brice standing directly behind her. “I’m here to find out why you are not allowing your people to take part in the evacuation. From the reports I’ve received hardly anyone from your facilities here on Ganymede has left.”

Flaxen sat down staring at Massie. “My employees and their families may leave if they want; I’m not stopping them.”

“But you’re offering very lucrative bonuses to encourage them not to leave,” pointed out Massie.

“The Selvin Corporation is a big business here in the Jupiter System,” replied Flaxen, unperturbed about the bonus comment. “We supply a huge amount of raw materials to the other planets as well as the fleet. We also don’t believe the Eternals will bother us here. We’re too much of a minor target compared to Earth and Mars. The forces there will be able to handle the threat. We saw no reason to disrupt our business. Besides, any of our employees who leave will have to be replaced. In our business, it takes considerable training and money to handle various work positions. Our employees are a valuable commodity and we don’t want to lose them.”

Massie frowned, shaking her head. “You may be sentencing your entire work force to death when the Eternals come. They want all Humans dead.”

Flaxen laughed. “That’s ridiculous! They perceive the primary worlds as a military threat. We have only minimal defenses around Ganymede and the other moons. We’re not a threat to the Eternals and we fully believe they’ll leave us alone. The corporate directors on the other moons feel the same way. We will put up no resistance to the Eternals when they arrive, demonstrating we’re not a danger.”

Massie stood up. It was obvious she was wasting her time. “You’ll think differently when the Eternals begin dropping antimatter missiles on your facilities and habitation domes.”

“That will never happen,” replied Flaxen confidently. “If necessary we’ll negotiate with the Eternals to spare our assets. I’m sure we can make some type of deal with them.”

“Let’s go,” ordered Massie, turning to face Sergeant Brice. “It’s obvious we’re wasting our time here.”

“I’ll be sending the fleet a bill for the front door,” added Flaxen. “Next time make an appointment; I’m a busy man.”

Massie did not reply as she and the sergeant left.

-

 Later back on board the Hera, Massie was telling Commander Macleod of her experience with Mister Flaxen.

“That’s what some of the bigger corporations are like,” Macleod replied. “They’re more concerned about profits than their people. I guarantee you when the Eternals show up Mister Flaxen will be in the deepest underground shelter on Ganymede.”

“I wonder if it will do any good to speak to President Treadway about this.”

Macleod shook his head. “I doubt it. The corporations are just too powerful. Earth, Mars, and even the fleet depend on them for raw materials and various types of equipment.”

“I just feel sorry for those people down there. When the Eternals come they’ll probably all be killed.”

“It’s out of our hands,” replied Macleod. “You spoke directly to Mister Flaxen and made him aware of the danger. There’s nothing more you can do.”

Looking at the main viewscreen, now focused on Ganymede, Massie wished there was something she could do for the people in the domes but she knew in this situation she was powerless. “Set a course for Saturn. There’s a major fleet military base there and I want to see what can be done to strengthen its defenses.”

Massie knew there were mining colonies on Saturn’s moons as well. She would speak to the fleet base commander about what was being done about those. She suspected she would hear the same answers she heard from Mister Flaxen. The corporations were not evacuating their personnel.

-

Fleet Admiral Nagumo was in a meeting with President Treadway, Senator Malross, and Admiral Johnston. They were discussing the planned defense of the Solar System. “Rear Admiral Tolsen is currently inspecting the colonies and outer defenses.”

President Treadway frowned. “She’s not going to be pleased if she stops at any of the corporate holdings at Jupiter or Saturn. The large corporations are resisting allowing their employees to evacuate. They’re offering large bonuses and incentives to get them to stay.”

“She’s already been to Jupiter; she went to speak to the head of the Selvin Corporation. I understand she had to rip the door off the corporate office just to get inside the building.”

President Treadway grinned. “Wish I could have seen that. Mister Flaxen is a royal pain in the ass with his constant demands for special treatment on government contracts. It’s about time someone put him in his place.”

“I understand she was allowed into his office immediately,” added Nagumo with the ghost of a smile. “Seems she took Marines and combat robots with her to the headquarters building.”

“I think I’m going to like Rear Admiral Tolsen,” said President Treadway. “Now, on to why we’re here. What’s the current status of the defenses in the Solar System?”

“We have four forty-kilometer battlestations around Earth and two at Mars,” replied Nagumo. “In order to make up for the lack of defenses over Mars we’ve added twenty Indomitable Class Battlestations and thirty of the Type Two Battlestations. We’ve also tripled the number of defensive satellites.”

“We’ve placed the forty-kilometer battlestations in orbit above our most populated regions,” added Admiral Johnston. “When the Eternals come we’ll be ready for them.”

President Treadway leaned back in her chair gazing at Fleet Admiral Nagumo. “Will we receive anymore Originator warships?”

Nagumo nodded. “We should have another fleet arriving in the next few days.”

President Treadway took a deep breath. “Then I guess we’re as ready as we’re going to get. How soon before the expected attack?”

“Another couple of weeks,” replied Nagumo.

“I wish more of our people would go through the Accelerator Rings to the Dyson sphere,” said President Treadway. “So many are refusing to leave their homes.”

“We’ll protect them,” promised Nagumo.

“I know you will,” replied President Treadway. “That’s all I can ask of you and the fleet.”

Nagumo just hoped he wasn’t promising something he could not deliver.

Chapter Seventeen

Kelsey was in the Command Center of the New Horizon as the super exploration dreadnought dropped out of hyperspace. They were near the center of the large galaxy where the capital planet of the Galactic Union was located. They were being escorted by ten battlecruisers, which were flying in formation around the dreadnought. The trip had taken nearly eight days as they had to adjust their speed to that of their escorts.

“What do our scans show?” asked Rear Admiral Barnes as she looked up expectantly at the tactical display.

“It’s a busy star system,” replied Camlin. “There are two inhabited planets and even a number of orbital colonies. There also seem to be colonies on many of the moons and other planets. Computer estimates place the system’s population at over twelve billion.”

Kelsey looked over at Kathryn. “That’s more than Earth and Mars combined.” This was the heaviest populated star system she was aware of outside of a Dyson sphere. She looked up at the tactical display seeing it fill full of green icons, some small and some extremely large.

“We’re detecting several thousand ships on our sensors,” reported Captain Reynolds. “Most seem to be passenger and cargo ships.”

Kathryn took a minute to study the tactical display. The majority of the ships seemed to be concentrated around the third and fourth planets. There were other ships scattered throughout the system. “Are we detecting any warships?”

“I believe so,” replied Reynolds. “There are two substantial fleets in the system, one around each of the two inhabited planets. They number about three hundred ships each and the ships are about fifteen hundred meters in length. Power readings indicate antimatter as their primary power source.”

“Much more advanced than the ships we encountered at the destroyed world of the Trills or our escorts,” commented Andram. “Preliminary scans indicate a civilization on a par with my own.”

Kathryn was a little surprised. In all their explorations, they had never encountered another civilization as advanced as the Altons other than the Eternals and the Originators. “Put one of the inhabited planets up on the main screen.”

Instantly a blue-white world appeared. It was covered in massive cities with large green agricultural areas. The world was about 40 percent water with several large oceans and many lakes. In orbit were a number of artificial habitats. They were thirty kilometers in length and seven in diameter, slowly spinning to create artificial gravity. In addition, there were a number of large space stations and shipyards in orbit as well.

“There’s a defensive grid around the planet,” Camlin informed them. “It consists of over one thousand satellites all armed with antimatter cannons.”

“The habitats, space stations, and shipyards are all heavily armed,” Captain Reynolds informed them. “I’m not detecting any energy shields in use though I suspect they have them.”

Kathryn looked over at Kelsey. “I wonder if the armament has always been here or if it’s due to the attack by the Creevak on the Trill worlds and others.”

“I would deduce it’s a result of the attack,” said Andram. “My own people kept armed vessels for our protection but we didn’t build defenses like these until the Hocklyns and AIs became a major threat.”

“How soon before we arrive at the capital planet?”

“Two hours,” replied Sible. “I think our escorts are giving us time to examine the system.”

Kathryn nodded. “Let’s take advantage of that. I want detailed scans of everything. Angela, check the communication frequencies. See what languages they’re speaking and run them through our translation programs. Let’s see what we can learn from their broadcasts.”

“Should we go to Condition Two?” asked Major Weir from his tactical console.

“No, we’ll stay at Condition Four for now. I don’t believe we’ll be facing a threat here. They want to know as much about us as we do about them.”

Kathryn continued to watch the viewscreen as it changed to show various views of the star system. There were fourteen planets and a plethora of moons and large asteroids. It was obvious smaller asteroids had been mined for resources as there were none. Both planets had massive cities with tall, soaring towers lifting up toward the clouds. Ribbon-like walkways could be seen connecting buildings and much of the travel on the planets was done by air car. Great care had been taken to preserve large tracts of land for agriculture purposes and even some forests were still standing in pristine condition. There were no signs of pollution anywhere.

“They’ve struck a balance with nature,” commented Andram, sounding impressed. “Much as we did on our old homeworld where the City of Lights is located and our current homeworld. I’m looking forward to meeting these people.”

Kathryn felt the same way. Just maybe they had finally found some allies who could help them with the Eternals. If Jeremy was successful placing the new battlestation at the anomaly to seal it off then there was a reasonable chance these people would agree to help in the war.

-

The New Horizon went into orbit around the capital planet with her escorts taking up positions around the large exploration dreadnought.

“A member of their ruling council would like to meet us on one of their orbital habitats,” reported Angela. “They will send a shuttle over to pick up whomever we would like to send.”

Kathryn nodded. “Kelsey, you will stay on the ship for this first round of negotiations. If for some reason things go south get out of here and report back to Fleet Admiral Strong. Andram, Camlin, Panthel (who was well versed in the study of alien cultures), Cynthia, (who was an Originator medical technician), and Nomar all of you will be with me.”

“A shuttle has left one of the habitats and is inbound toward us,” reported Captain Reynolds. “It should be here in about five minutes.”

“Open the main hatch to the landing bay,” ordered Kathryn. “Kelsey, the ship is yours.” Kathryn stood up and exited the Command Center followed by some of those who she had mentioned would be accompanying her.

-

Kelsey settled into the command chair. “Focus the main viewscreen on the habitat where the meeting will be occurring,” she ordered. “Sible, will you be able to remain in contact with Camlin?” The Originator AIs had a neural implant which allowed them to communicate with one another.

“Maybe,” replied Sible. “It depends on the thickness of the habitat hull. It will also be nearly at the maximum range we can communicate with our implants.”

“Keep me informed,” said Kelsey. “It would be nice if to know what’s going on inside the habitat.” This was going to be a long afternoon. All Kelsey could do was wait patiently and see what the results of these negotiations brought about.

-

The shuttle Kathryn was in entered the habitat and set down on a landing pad. Looking out the viewport near her, Kathryn saw a number of dignitaries and a few military personnel waiting. They were all from the same race. The people were tall and slim with dark skin. There was a ridge of what looked like bony cartilage above their brows and their faces were a little bit wider than a Human’s. They were not as tall as an Originator but were taller than a Human. Kathryn took a deep breath and stood up. “Let’s go and see what we can learn about our hosts.”

Exiting the shuttle Kathryn could see the surprise on the faces of their hosts as they saw the various sentients with her.

“I’m Advisor Malkor of the Calmar,” one of the tall aliens said. “Councilor Hamah is waiting at the government center for this habitat. I have an air car waiting to take us to where we need to go.”

“I’m Rear Admiral Kathryn Barnes and I have with me representatives of the sentients on board my ship.”

“I greet you in the name of the Galactic Union,” replied Malkor. “Come with me and we will go to the meeting with Councilor Hamah.”

-

The ride in the air car was thrilling to Kathryn, not because of the technology but because the habitat was like a miniature Dyson sphere. From the air car she could see the gentle slope of the ground and looking up she could see fields and buildings.

“This would take some getting used to,” she said to Andram, sitting next to her.

Andram smiled. “Yes, even I find this intriguing. My people built several of these habitats in the distant past but finally settled on simply expanding to new worlds. The habitats were difficult to build as well as maintain.”

“I suspect the habitats are here because this is the capital of the Galactic Union,” suggested Kathryn.

“A very good possibility,” said Nomar. “This would be a good way to impress other races and demonstrate the technology and power of the Galactic Union. I’m curious as to how many sentient races are involved in this Union and how they select their governmental officials.”

“They mentioned some type of elections earlier.”

“Yes, but if we’re speaking about thousands of planets how do they manage that?”

“Perhaps Councilor Hamah can explain that to us,” replied Kathryn as the air car sat down in front of a tall and slender building.

Advisor Malkor led them into the building, going through several security checkpoints. They were then whisked up to one of the upper levels in an elevator which revealed no hints of moving but arrived at their destination after only a few seconds.

“This elevator has gravity control,” commented Andram. “Fascinating.”

“It allows faster transit,” explained Advisor Malkor. “This technology is widely used in the Galactic Union.”

The elevator came to a stop and Advisor Malkor led them to a conference room where a group of Calmar and several other sentients were waiting.

“I am Councilor Hamah of the Calmar,” one of the tall slim aliens said, introducing himself. He then introduced the others with him. All were government officials of some type.

Kathryn then introduced herself and those with her.

“Originators,” said Calmar, gazing at Nomar, Cynthia, and Panthel with interest. “We have heard of your people. Many millions of years ago one of your exploration ships came to our galaxy. Several of our older races which have long since passed from this existence left records of your visit.”

“It is possible,” said Nomar. “There was a time when my people were intent on exploring the universe. We sent many expeditions to distant galaxies. Though we have no records of any coming out this far.”

“We have refreshments which I believe will be palatable for you,” said Calmar, gesturing toward a table loaded down with various fruits and drinks, including some crystal clear water.

“Thank you,” replied Kathryn, pouring herself a glass of water and then returning to the large conference table. “We have many questions we would like to ask you.”

“As do we,” replied Councilor Hamah.

Kathryn turned toward Camlin. “Perhaps it would be best for you to give them a brief history of the Originators, Eternals, the war, and why we are here.”

Camlin had done this before with other races and had refined the information she presented. Part of it would be her speaking and much of it would be video. She had already checked and there would be no problem with her interacting with the computer that controlled the viewscreens in the conference room.

“I am an Originator AI,” began Camlin. “I am fully sentient and can feel emotions. In the Originator Shrieels AIs are considered citizens. I will start with a brief history of the Originators and go on from there.”

For the next two hours Camlin spoke, outlining some of the Originators’ accomplishments, the original war with the Eternals, and the onset of the plague which devastated the Originator population. She then went on to describe first contact with the Humans and Altons and finding a cure for the plague. She finished with the current war with the Eternals and the effort they were making to find allied races to help stop the Eternals’ advance across the universe.

“And that’s how we ran across the worlds destroyed by the Creevak in the Makuul Galaxy. In our search of that galaxy we found the anomaly and then later came here to see if the Creevak had devastated this galaxy as well.”

“Several of our older races have passed on to the next phase of existence,” said Councilor Hamah. “They unified our galaxy countless cycles ago and set the guidelines for our Galactic Union. There are over twenty-two thousand member races. Each planet may chose a representative and every sector of the galaxy may send four representatives to represent their sector. Our galaxy is divided up into twenty-two sectors with an equal number of races in each one. To become eligible to be a member of the Galactic Union a race must develop interstellar travel on their own and begin traveling to nearby star systems. Once that begins we send a contact team to initiate peaceful relations.”

“Do you share your technology?” asked Andram.

“Only parts of it,” replied Councilor Hamah. “We only allow what a race is capable of handling. Too rapid advancement can be detrimental to a races’ future development. We’ll guide them along but many discoveries are left for them to develop on their own. We may help them along here and there but we try to interfere as little as possible.”

“What about the Creevak?” asked Nomar.

“We did not know what was occurring in the Makuul Galaxy until too late,” answered Councilor Hamah. “We also never had the need for a large military force. We had a small police force which ensured no races were taken advantage of by others and that was it. When we discovered what the Creevak were doing in the Makuul Galaxy we began building warships to defend ourselves. Our first fleets were destroyed defending the Trill but our later warships were more powerful. We were finally able to drive the Creevak from our galaxy but not before they destroyed over one hundred and thirty worlds.”

“What type of fleets do you maintain now?” asked Kathryn.

Councilor Hamah looked uncomfortable answering the question. “We have never been a warlike civilization and it has been difficult to adapt to the danger the Creevak represent. We have two types of defensive fleets. The first one is what you encountered in the Trill system. Its weapons are powered by highly developed fusion power. The second and our main defensive fleets are powered by antimatter.”

“Do you expect the Creevak to return?” asked Kathryn.

Councilor Hamah nodded his head. “That’s who we thought you were at first. From what we learned from several Creevak computers we managed to salvage they are a brutal race who spare no one. They live for combat and consider all other races to be insignificant. We believe after being defeated here they retreated to build up their forces. We’ve sent ships to the Makuul Galaxy searching for the Creevak but have never been able to find them. Your revelation about the anomaly explains much and the Creevak being from another universe explains even more.”

“We are willing to help you with the Creevak,” offered Kathryn. “However, in return we wish aid against the Eternals.”

Councilor Hamah stood up and walked over to the refreshment table. He picked up a pitcher and poured himself a fruit drink. He gazed for a moment at the drink and commented, “As one grows older simple things seem to take on more importance. When I was younger I would not have touched a fruit drink. Now I can’t get enough of them.” Hamah walked back to the table and sat down. “From what you have told me no matter what we do someday we will face the Eternals.”

“Unfortunately that is so,” replied Kathryn. “The Eternals in some ways are like the Creevak. They will spare no one. The only difference is the Eternals will enslave a civilization and put its citizens to work for the advancement of their Empire. The Creevak will destroy it completely.”

Councilor Hamah took a deep drink of his fruit drink and then set it down. “It appears we have some decisions to make. I will present your request to the Council of the Galactic Union. It will take a few days to gather all the councilors but I believe this issue is important enough to justify a special meeting. I would request that your ship remain in orbit as there will be more questions we will need to ask of you.”

Kathryn nodded. “We were expecting that.”

“If you would like, Advisor Malkor will show you around our habitat. I think you will find it interesting and it will give you an idea of our technology.”

“Thank you,” replied Kathryn. “We would be interested in a tour.”

-

Several hours later everyone returned to the New Horizon. It had been a tiring day and Kathryn was ready to turn in. After a long relaxing shower, she put her robe on and sat down in front of her computer to make a report of the day’s developments. She had high hopes of the Galactic Union agreeing to help against the Eternals. If everything went as she hoped, it would be up to Jeremy to get the new battlestation in place near the anomaly. Once that was done they could begin focusing on the other galaxies in this cluster. It would form a very good blockade against the Eternals’ continued advancement.

-

Kelsey was with Jason discussing today’s class lessons.

“Why do I have to learn so much math?” asked Jason as he drank a glass of juice. “Clarissa gives me more math homework than she does the others. Not even Clair has to work some of the problems I do.”

“I believe all of you are being assigned different homework,” answered Kelsey. “Clarissa is giving you homework she believes will help you the most in the future. I believe Clair gets more science homework.”

“Maybe,” replied Jason. “But I’d rather be playing than doing all of this homework.”

Kelsey let out a deep sigh. Sometimes she understood what Angela was saying about the kids advancing too rapidly. The conversation with Jason was a good example. It wasn’t the type of conversation a mother had with most four year olds.

“Finish your homework and you can play afterwards.”

“Can Clair come over?” asked Jason, his eyes lighting up.

“Maybe,” replied Kelsey. Angela’s quarters were only a short distance from Kelsey’s. “Get your homework done and I’ll call and see if Angela and Clair can come over for awhile.”

A big smile spread over Jason’s face. “She’ll have to bring Andrea too.” Andrea was the same age as Jason and Clair’s younger sister.

-

Later Kelsey and Angela were sitting on the couch watching the kids play a computer game.

Angela shook her head. “When I was their age I was playing with dolls.”

Kelsey laughed. “I was in Ceres then and I didn’t have any dolls. I was playing with toy models of spaceships my father gave me.”

“Times change,” said Angela with a deep sigh. “I wonder what our kids will be like when they become teenagers.”

“Just like we were,” replied Kelsey. “They may be smarter and know more but they will still be teenagers with raging hormones.”

Angela grimaced. “That’s one thing I could have done without.”

Kelsey nodded. “I think when Katie was a teenager she had a huge crush on Jeremy.”

“Didn’t Katie live with Jeremy and his parents for awhile?”

“Yes, she did. Jeremy always treated her as a younger sister and he still does. I think sometimes it infuriates Katie.”

Angela laughed. “Brothers and sisters are like that. Do you miss those days back at the academy?”

“Everything was simpler back then. We didn’t know about the Eternals or what awaited us in the future. I do wish my parents could have seen their grandchildren though.”

“I think we all do,” replied Angela. “We spent quite a bit of time in cryosleep waiting for the war with the Hocklyns and AIs. Sometimes I wonder if that was a mistake.”

“It wasn’t,” answered Kelsey. “We trained for it and it was what we were meant to do. Our parents supported our decision.”

“Your dad was an admiral,” replied Angela. “I think my mom would have liked to have seen her grandchildren.”

Kelsey nodded. They all felt that way from time to time. “I think all of our parents would be proud of where we are today and the kids.”

Angela blinked her eyes. “I know you’re right. I just sometimes wonder what all we missed by going into cryosleep so young. I know we did the right thing after how everything turned out. I just wished we could have spent a little more time with our parents.”

Kelsey looked over toward the kids. It was obvious from the look on Jason’s face that whatever computer game he was playing against the girls he was losing. The children had no idea how easy their lives were right now compared to what they would be in the future. Now was the time of innocence; sometime in the future that would come to an end. The war with the Eternals would go on for generations and there was no doubt the children would play a major role in it.

Chapter Eighteen

First Leader Fehnral stood upon a high balcony overlooking the capital city of the Empire. Above him in orbit massive fleets were departing. They were finally ready to launch their attack against the Humans and the Altons. Once both of those races were eliminated, a general attack against all of Originator space would begin. In less than a year, if they kept to the timetable, the Originators would only have control of their Shrieels and nothing else. The war with the Originators would be over and the Eternals’ Empire could spread across the universe unhindered.

“The fleets will be entering hyperspace shortly,” reported Second Leader Abross. “I spoke to the admirals earlier and they understand their orders.”

“Genocide,” spoke Fehnral, his eyes showing cold determination. “It is something we do very seldom but the Humans and the Altons are too dangerous. They would never accept our rule.”

“It is what we must do,” replied Abross. “The Originators made a mistake allowing those two younger races access to Originator technology and ships. It is an error we will correct. It will also be a lesson to the Originators never to do something like that again.”

“We are the Eternals; we do what is necessary.”

Abross stood waiting for further orders. “What of the general attack against Originator space?”

Fehnral turned to face Abross. “Begin assembling the fleets. The first battles will be violent as the surviving Humans and Altons will no doubt be operating and commanding the fleets against us. Once they are eliminated, the conquest of Originator space should be relatively easy. We will suffer substantial fleet losses but Originator space will be ours.”

“I will begin gathering the fleets,” replied Abross. “It will be necessary to curtail some of our attacks in other galaxies.”

Fehnral nodded. “I realize that. But once Originator space is ours we can expand our control over the universe at a much faster rate.”

Abross turned and left. He had much to do to assemble the necessary fleets. He would also speak to Second Leader Queexel about increasing warship production to replace the expected losses in ships in the coming battles.

First Leader Fehnral took in a deep breath. In a relatively short time, the Humans and the Altons would be gone. The Empire would have control of Originator space and the war with the Originators would be over. The Empire would be victorious as was only right. The Eternals were the most intelligent and powerful race in the universe and were destined to rule over all of creation.

-

Admiral Jackson was in a meeting with Councilors Barnes, Grayseth, Tureen, and Trallis. Jackson was standing at his window looking at one of the new cities being built in the distance for the Human evacuees. “I can’t believe how fast the new cities are being constructed.” He could see a bevy of air cars flitting around the new city. He knew they would be carrying construction materials as well as programmed robots that would be finishing up the city.

“We are building them as fast as we can,” replied Councilor Trallis. “Each city will hold ten million inhabitants.”

Admiral Jackson turned toward Councilor Barnes. “How many Humans have been evacuated from the Federation so far?”

“Four hundred and seventy million,” replied Councilor Barnes. “That’s far less than we had hoped. Many people are still resisting the move and then there are others who don’t believe in the threat from the Eternals.”

Jackson looked over at Councilor Tureen. “What of the Altons? How many of your people have been evacuated?”

“As you know, my people are divided into two groups: those who are pacifists and those who are more aggressive. Nearly two billion of the more aggressive Altons have evacuated but only fifty-two million non-aggressive ones. Many of the non-aggressives are leading scientists, technicians, and their families. We also have another twenty million who have gone to the City of Lights at the galactic center.”

“What about the defenses in Alton space?”

“We have ten of the forty-kilometer battlestations. Six have been stationed in our home system with a major portion of our fleet. The other four have been placed in our next most populous system. Many of our people are evacuating to those two systems in the hope they won’t have to evacuate to the Dyson sphere. The Alton admirals in charge feel there is a reasonable chance they can hold both systems particularly with the arrival of Admiral Bachal and his Originator fleet. Don’t forget we also have a large number of Indomitable Class Battlestations in those two systems.”

“Councilor Grayseth, what of your homeworld?”

Grayseth bared his incisors and then answered. “Admiral Calmat has arrived with his fleet to defend Careth. We have a sizable defensive network around the home planet as well as several small Federation fleets. With the addition of Admiral Calmat’s ships my people feel confident of surviving any attack by the Eternals. If not they are prepared to go on the Great Hunt.”

Councilor Barnes looked up and asked a question. “How much more time do we have before the Eternals’ attack?”

Admiral Jackson drew in a deep breath. “Not much. Probably in the next few weeks. We’re doing everything we can to speed up the evacuations as well as get more ships to the Federation.”

“What about our counterattack?” asked Councilor Trallis.

“It’s nearly ready. We’ve sent thousands of warships through the vortex centers on the Dyson spheres to the Dyson spheres closest to Eternal space. We have modified our plans to allow for a better chance of success and to attempt to hold our ship losses to a minimum. We will launch ten separate attacks of twenty thousand ships each against the ten Eternal galaxies nearest us. There will also be a small reserve force of Originator vessels we can commit if we become bogged down in any of those ten galaxies. At the same time, Commander Zafron will attack Galaxy 7296 with his three fleets. We’ve added more ships to his fleets to help ensure success.”

Councilor Trallis stood up and stepped over to gaze at a painting of an Earth sunset. He was quiet for several moments and then spoke. “We are risking a lot. We have no idea how many ships the Eternals will commit to attacking the Federation and the Alton worlds. The same is true of the ten galaxies you propose attacking. There is no way for us to gauge the Eternals’ response to our assaults. We risk greatly enlarging this war.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. “It’s a risk, but one I feel we need to take. Fleet Admiral Strong agrees as well. He’s the one who suggested we only attack ten Eternal galaxies instead of twenty. He’s also the one that suggested Commander Zafron make a move on Galaxy X-7296. Don’t forget, it’s the Eternals who are enlarging this war by attacking the Federation and the Altons.”

“Speaking of Fleet Admiral Strong, when does he plan on coming back?” asked Councilor Barnes. Barnes would like to see Kathryn again.

“After the new battlestation arrives in the Makuul Galaxy. Rear Admiral Barnes is currently in the larger galaxy talking to the leaders of their Galactic Union. Jeremy feels there’s a good chance they’ll agree to help us against the Eternals. Once that’s been done he’s going to return for a few weeks or maybe even longer.”

“How’s the progress on the new battlestation?”

“It’s proceeding pretty rapidly now,” replied Trallis. “It should be done in another six weeks. The Accelerator Ring will be ready in four.”

“What will the transit time be for the station? I know it will take longer because of its size and the energy involved to speed it up to intergalactic hyperspace speeds.”

“Eight to nine weeks,” replied Trallis. “At least that’s what the scientists working on the project tell me.”

Admiral Jackson knew by the time Jeremy returned, the fighting in Federation and Alton space would be over, the same as the fighting in the galaxies they were going to attack. Jackson wondered what Jeremy would find when he did return.

-

Later Admiral Jackson was in a shuttle as he toured the defenses around the hub. All four Dyson spheres were heavily armed and there were still twelve of the forty-kilometer battlestations floating around with several more that should be finished in the main construction facilities in another two weeks. The shuttle passed one of the battlestations and Jackson spent a moment examining the large spherical object encased in dark black battle armor. Its surface was covered with weapons turrets and small hatches concealing missile tubes. As the shuttle passed the battlestation, he could see several of the one hundred-kilometer Accelerator Rings. Both were active as warships were coming and going. In the distance, he could see the new Accelerator Ring being built. The new ring would be two hundred kilometers in diameter and take a tremendous amount of power to activate.

Close to the new Accelerator Ring work was progressing on the 170-kilometer battlestation. It would be the largest battlestation the Originators had ever built. Looking out the large viewport, Jackson could see numerous work shuttles and robot-controlled craft working on the outer hull of the station. He knew inside thousands more were busy building the inner sections. At any one time there were several thousand Originator AIs on board the station supervising the work.

“Impressive, isn’t it?” said Rear Admiral Susan Marks. Susan was in charge of the new and larger Fleet Academy on the Dyson sphere. She had asked to speak to Admiral Jackson and he had invited her to come along on his tour.

“Quite! I hope Jeremy is satisfied with this.”

“He will be,” replied Susan. “I wanted to speak to you about increasing the size of the Fleet Academy. With the influx of more Humans and Altons coming to the Dyson sphere, I would like to increase its size as well as add more teachers.”

Jackson turned toward Susan. “How large?”

“Four times what it is now,” she replied. “That would allow us to graduate twenty thousand officers for the fleet every semester.” Training was quicker now as they had Human, Alton, and Originator instructors. They were also using a combination of Alton and Originator training methods.

“I’ll speak to Jeremy about it,” replied Jackson. “I’m sure he will approve it.”

Susan nodded. “When you talk to Jeremy remind him to come by the academy when he gets back. He hasn’t been there for quite sometime. His presence would make a big impact on the recruits.”

“I will,” replied Jackson as the shuttle slowed down to pass over one of the massive Originator shipyards.

Jackson looked at the structure which consisted of hundreds of construction and repair bays. It stretched out nearly thirty kilometers and this was only one of ten such structures at the hub. Along its hull were hundreds of weapon emplacements as well as missile tubes.

“They build everything large here,” commented Susan as she gazed at the shipyard.

Jackson nodded and smiled. “They’re Originators; what would you expect?”

-

In the New Tellus System, one of the two Accelerator Rings had activated. Admiral Tolsen was watching from the Command Center of the WarHawk as Originator dreadnoughts and battlecruisers began to come through. This was the reinforcement fleet he had requested from the Dyson sphere in Shari space.

“Where are you going to position this fleet?” asked Commander Haskins.

“In the Oort Cloud,” replied Race. “The Eternals should not be able to detect it and when the time is right I’ll have them enter hyperspace and drop in behind the Eternals, pinning them between our defenses and the new ships.”

Commander Haskins nodded. “That’s why the fleet is so large.”

“Yes,” replied Race. “There are three hundred dreadnoughts and eight thousand battlecruisers in that fleet.”

‘It is a good strategy,” commented Zamdol, the Originator military AI. “We will pin the Eternals between our two forces. It will give us our best chance for victory.’’

On the viewscreen, additional ships continued to come out of the swirling blue vortex of the Accelerator Ring. It was an impressive sight as ship after ship appeared. With the arrival of this fleet Race felt much better about the coming battle. When the Eternals arrived he planned on crushing their fleet in such a way they would never contemplate attacking New Tellus again. He intended to fight one battle to ensure there would be no future battles in the system.

“Prepare my shuttle. I want to go to the Command Fortress and speak with General Wilcox. I need to ensure everyone knows what they are to do when the Eternals arrive. Zamdol, you will accompany me.”

-

Race took a shuttle and was flown to the Command Fortress. As they approached the large asteroid, Race marveled at what all had been done. Besides the asteroid’s original weapons dark energy cannons, dark matter missiles, antimatter cannons, and antimatter missiles had been added. The asteroid now bristled with weapon emplacements. It also had an energy shield powered by a series of antimatter power plants.

A large hatch opened and the shuttle entered to set down on a landing platform. Several fleet officers were waiting to greet Race and take him to the Command Center.

As they walked through the massive asteroid complex, Race saw a beehive of activity. There were large numbers of regular soldiers as well as Marines visible. They had to go through several heavily defended checkpoints to reach the main elevators which went down to the Command Center. Race knew there were explosives in the walls that could be detonated if an enemy force was to reach the elevators and begin descending.

It didn’t take long for the elevator to reach the command level and after going through another heavily defended checkpoint, Race stepped into the Command Center where General Madison Wilcox and her staff were waiting for him. He also saw Senator Brown was present as well.

“Admiral,” greeted General Wilcox, stepping forward and shaking his hand. “You already know Colonel Briggs and Senator Brown. These other officers are General Ethan Smith, my second in command, Colonel Olivia Sutra who is our chief communications officer, and Major Will Hill who is in charge of all fighter and bomber operations.”

Race greeted each one. “I want to go over our operational plans for when the Eternals arrive. I’m expecting that to occur sometime in the next two weeks.”

“So our time has pretty much run out,” commented General Smith.

Race nodded. “We need to finish all of our defensive preparations within that time.”

“I was hoping we would have longer,” said Senator Brown. “Are we ready for this attack?”

“Let’s move to the command platform,” suggested General Wilcox. “We can review all of our defensive preparations from there.”

Senator Brown nodded his agreement. “I want to know everything we’re doing.”

The group moved to the elevated platform which gave them a complete view of the entire Command Center. General Wilcox sat down in her command chair and activated the console in front of her. Instantly on the main tactical display an overview of the system appeared. All eight planets, the system’s moons, and the three asteroid fields were visible. Across the system there were friendly green icons representing warships and other vessels. There were also a number of mining operations shown.

“I would recommend we proceed to shut down all mining operations and evacuate the personnel,” said Race. “We won’t be able to defend them and the Eternals will doubtlessly target them in their effort to exterminate us.”

“I agree,” said Senator Brown. “We can get by without the mining operations for a few weeks.”

“We’ve been getting reports for several days now of mysterious contacts in some of the other Federation systems as well as our science and mining outposts in the outlying regions,” reported Colonel Sutra. “Computer analysis suggests they’re Eternal ships.”

Race nodded. “I saw those reports. I’m pretty certain they’re stealthed Eternal battlecruisers assigned to locate all of our worlds and outposts. I recommended to Fleet Admiral Nagumo he see about evacuating all of those outposts temporarily. There have been reports from Alton space of mysterious contacts as well.”

“Some of those scientists and miners will be too stubborn to leave their operations,” said General Smith.

“I’ll leave Fleet Admiral Nagumo to deal with that,” replied Race.

“We haven’t detected any anomalies in our system,” reported Colonel Briggs.

Race gestured toward the main tactical display. “We have ships and fighter squadrons patrolling the space in the system all the way out to the Oort Cloud. I suspect the Eternals haven’t found a way to penetrate that, though I would almost make a bet they have been here but stayed outside the system relying on their long-range scanners instead.”

“When they do attack, can we use our bombers against them?” asked Major Hill. “We have twenty-kiloton nukes we can deploy on our bombers.”

Race shook his head. “No, they would wipe out your bombers with defensive fire and it would take forty or fifty missile strikes just to take down one of their energy screens.”

“What about damaged Eternal vessels?”

“Their damaged ships do not normally withdraw,” replied Race. “They would still be protected by the defensive fire from their other ships. To attempt to attack them with your bombers would be suicidal. Your bombers are better off defending the planet beneath the defense grid.”

“What of your fleet and the other Originator fleet stationed outside the system?” asked General Wilcox.

Race smiled wolfishly. “There’s no way the Eternals can know how heavily this system is defended. I intend to lure their fleet in and then use the second Originator fleet and our own forces to eliminate it. We’re going to take some major losses but I believe we have a good chance for victory.”

General Wilcox nodded in agreement. “Let’s go over our defensive plan in detail. Our world and way of life are at stake and we can’t afford to make mistakes.”

-

For the next four hours they went through all the defensive plans meticulously along with the positioning of the various fleets in the system. They covered which settlements needed to evacuated as well as what the ground forces on New Tellus needed to be prepared for. After some discussion, Race decided to contact the Dyson sphere in Shari space and request several thousand combat robots to be assigned to the New Tellus ground forces. Some of those would also be placed on the asteroid fortresses as well as the shipyards. In the end they were all satisfied they had done everything they could to get ready for the coming attack.

“I don’t know if we’ll be able to meet like this again before the attack,” said Race. “When Condition Three is announced it’s essential all civilian ships get out of the potential combat zones.”

“We have sufficient shelters on the surface to get all of our civilian population to safety,” added Senator Brown. “New Tellus has always been at the forefront of Federation military activities so we built them in case the planet was ever attacked. It seems now it was a good thing we did.”

“I’ve spoken to Admiral Crown and we’ve set up an evacuation site for all of our commercial ships,” commented General Wilcox. “It’s in a nearby system and we’ll have a squadron of our strikecruisers there to protect the vessels.”

“That should work. Just make sure the commercial ship captains understand with the setting of Condition Three they need to exit the system immediately.” Race knew the Eternals wouldn’t hesitate to target civilian vessels.

“I’ll speak to Admiral Crown and between the two of us we’ll get it taken care of.” General Wilcox spoke to the admiral several times each day.

Senator Brown turned toward Admiral Tolsen. “I assume since you have battle experience against the Eternals you will be coordinating the battle?”

Race nodded. “That’s the plan as of this moment. If something happens to me then command of the fleet action will fall to Admiral Crown. I intend to assign Zamdol to his command to ensure there is no disruption in communications with Originator warships. As you know Zamdol is an Originator military AI and fully familiar with how I want this battle fought. He is well qualified to command a fleet if necessary.”

Senator Brown turned to address the entire staff. “There’s a lot at stake in this battle. I have full confidence you will make the people of New Tellus proud.”

Race hoped the senator was right but in battle one could never know what might happen. The unpredictable always seemed to turn up when it was least expected.

-

Around Federation and Alton space, a number of Eternal stealth battlecruisers were busy searching for all the inhabited worlds, bases, mining facilities, and scientific outposts the two races might have. Already over ninety primary targets had been located. The stealthed ships were scheduled to complete their mission in another few days then they would pull back to await the arrival of the Eternal attack fleets. Once the fleets arrived, the tactical information the stealth ships had gathered would be transmitted to the fleet admirals. The admirals would use the data to plan their attacks.

-

The Human Federation of Worlds Senate was in session. With the detection of possible Eternal stealth ships in nearly every system an emergency meeting had been called.

“What are you going to do to defend our systems?” demanded Senator Adams of Serenity.

“I thought you didn’t believe in the danger the Eternals represent,” said President Treadway pointedly. “While some of the systems in the Federation have been evacuating their citizens and building up their defenses you and Senator Hanford have made every effort you could to derail the defensive effort. Now you have the audacity to demand protection.”

“We have over one billion people on our two worlds,” replied Adams, ignoring the president’s comment. “We are a member of the Federation and demand more fleet units be sent to defend our worlds.”

“And from what world should these ships come from?” asked Senator Lisa Karls from Horizon. “Those of us who have spent a fortune in the last few months building up the defenses of our system have no ships to send you. You had a choice to make and it was the wrong one. Should the rest of us now have to suffer for your stubbornness?”

Senator Adams’ face turned red with fury. “The military has brought this Armageddon down upon us! It is their meddling in affairs that they shouldn’t have that has brought the Eternals to our doorstep. I demand sufficient fleet units be sent to Serenity and Bliss to protect our worlds.”

President Treadway stared coldly at the two senators. “I will speak to Fleet Admiral Nagumo and see if any ships can be spared. I can assure you we have no desire to see Serenity and Bliss destroyed.”

“How many ships?” demanded Senator Hanford.

“It’s not my decision,” replied President Treadway. “That will be up to Fleet Admiral Nagumo.”

-

For the next several hours the arguments raged as various senators demanded or requested more warships to protect their systems. In the end, President Treadway promised to do what she could but if the various worlds really wanted to protect their citizens, they needed to send them through the Accelerator Rings to the Dyson sphere in Shari space. Some senators nodded their heads in agreement while others left the meeting feeling frustrated and angry.

-

Later President Treadway was meeting with Fleet Admiral Nagumo and describing the highlights of the council session.

“Lamebrains,” muttered Nagumo. “Both Senators Adams and Hanford had an opportunity to increase the defenses around their worlds but refused to do so. Now it’s too late.”

President Treadway pursed her lips. “I don’t care for the two senators either but there are nearly one billion people on their two worlds. Is there anything we can do?”

Nagumo leaned back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest. “I can send some defensive satellites and a couple of squadrons of light cruisers. The light cruisers aren’t going to be much help around the heavy combat areas. They’re just too small.”

“Do it,” said President Treadway. “At least they’ll feel we’re making an effort.”

Fleet Admiral Nagumo paused and then asked President Treadway a question. “Are you going to evacuate to the Dyson sphere?”

“No, my job is here on Earth with the people. So few have evacuated. I was hoping for two or three times the current number.”

Nagumo’s brows creased in a frown. “What if we announce we’re expecting a major Eternal attack in the next few weeks? Do you think that might spur the evacuation?”

“It would probably increase those who are willing to evacuate but it’s going to cause a panic as well.”

“Declare martial law across the Federation,” suggested Nagumo. “We know the attack is coming in the next few weeks. By declaring martial law we can use the military to keep the peace. Each planet can set its own curfew but I think we’ve reached the point where it needs to be done. The Eternals are coming and we’re probably going to lose a lot of people. We need to save as many as we can and the only way to ensure we do that is to send them to the Dyson sphere. By declaring martial law they’ll realize how serious the situation is.”

“President Treadway let out a deep sigh. “That will wreck our economy for years to come.”

“What do you think the Eternal attack is going to do?”

“You’re right, of course. I’ll have my people draw up the orders. It will take a day or two but as soon as the papers are done I’ll announce the declaration of martial law.”

Nagumo nodded. “It will also make the fleet’s job easier. We’ll ground all unnecessary traffic and be prepared for a massive migration to the Dyson sphere. I firmly believe up until now our people haven’t believed the Eternals are a threat. Declaring martial law will change that.”

“I hope so,” replied President Treadway. “I would hate to see the Human race end because people were too stubborn to evacuate.”

“They’ll evacuate. Martial law will give them sufficient reason to do so. One other thing; why don’t you show the people the new cities that are being built in the Dyson sphere?”

President Treadway nodded. “We were planning on doing that anyway. The video should be arriving in the next day or two. We’ll make a final all out push to encourage more people to evacuate before it’s too late.”

Nagumo knew time was running out. In a few weeks they would know if the Federation was going to survive or if it was destined to fall to the Eternals.

Chapter Nineteen

Rear Admiral Barnes was pleased with the direction the negotiations with the Galactic Union were heading. They were receptive to aiding in the war against the Eternals, particularly when they learned of the large battlestation going to be used to stop future Creevak incursions.

“We’ll place one of our forty-kilometer battlestations here in this galaxy and use it as our primary base of operations,” explained Kathryn to the assembled group. “The leaders of the Galactic Union have also agreed to aid in exploring neighboring galaxies in this cluster and to take the lead in its defense. They recognize how serious the threat from the Eternals is.”

“They have sufficient hyperspace technology to make the journeys to the other galaxies but it’s not nearly as fast as ours,” pointed out Nomar. “I would suggest we help them to improve their hyperdrives so they can make the trips to other galaxies in a more reasonable length of time.”

Kathryn nodded. “We can make that part of our agreement.”

“There are some other technologies I would suggest we share with them as well,” said Panthel. “However, before we do that we must speak to the Originator Council and get their approval. Since the Galactic Union’s primary races are on a similar technological level as the Altons, I don’t believe that will be a problem.”

“We should be able to finish up the negotiations in a few more days,” said Kathryn. “That will give us time to contact the council and get their approval on any technology we want to share with the Galactic Union.”

“I will make a list of the technology I feel will be useful,” replied Panthel.

Kelsey was glad to hear they were just about finished with negotiations. While they were important, she was anxious to get back to Jeremy. Jason was asking about him two or three times a day. The Avenger and the other ships had all returned to the battlestation outside the satellite galaxy. Kelsey knew Jeremy was really concerned about the Creevak and their possible reappearance.

-

Later Kelsey, Katie, and Angela were in the officer’s cafeteria eating a light snack and talking about the kids.

Katie looked over at Kelsey and laughed. Kelsey had a large bowl of strawberries topped off with a towering mound of whipped cream. “You know, as long as I’ve known you there’s always a bowl of strawberries around. You’re as bad about them as Kevin is about hamburgers.”

Kelsey grinned. “At least they’re good for you.”

“Not with all that whipped cream,” said Angela. “You even ate those back at the Fleet Academy when we were still on the Moon.”

Kelsey nodded. “Yes, those were the good old days.”

Katie blinked, her green eyes narrowing slightly. “We’re not that old, at least not physically.” Which was true as all three of them had taken Alton and Originator anti-aging drugs which had significantly increased their lifespans. All three girls still looked as if they were in their early thirties.

Kelsey took a bite of strawberries and then looked at the other two. “Once this mission is done should we stay on the Dyson sphere for a while? Maybe it would be the best place for the kids rather than on a spaceship.” It was something she had been thinking seriously about.

“I would like that,” replied Angela with a nod. “The only problem is what would the guys want to do? Jeremy is always running off somewhere in the Avenger.”

“Putting out fires,” commented Kelsey. “I wish he would let others do some of that.”

“He did put Admiral Jackson in charge while we’re gone,” pointed out Katie. “Maybe now he would be more willing to stay on the Dyson sphere. After all, with all the new people coming from the evacuations in the Federation, there’s going to be a lot that will need to be done getting them acclimated to Alton and Originator technology.”

A look of concern crossed Angela’s face. “I wish we knew what was going to happen back in the Federation. What if the Eternals manage to destroy it? What would that do to us?”

“Admiral Tolsen is at New Tellus and his sister Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen is in the Solar System,” said Kelsey. “Next to Jeremy, Race is our best admiral. If anyone can stop the Eternals from destroying the Federation, it will be him.”

“I hope so,” said Katie as she took a bite of the cherry pie in front of her. “Someday I would like to take the kids back to Earth just to show them where we’re from.”

“Speaking of the kids,” said Angela, “I think they would enjoy growing up in the Dyson sphere much better than here on the New Horizon. Even as large as this ship is they are limited as to where they can play. At their age they need to be outside.”

Kelsey let out a deep sigh. She knew Angela was right. As much as she had enjoyed designing and building the New Horizon, her responsibly now was raising Jason in the best environment possible and that was not on a spaceship.

“I’ll talk to Jeremy when we get back. Maybe I can talk him into returning to the Dyson sphere, at least for a few years until the evacuees are all settled.”

“I think it’s time for us to settle down and quit flying around the universe,” said Katie, drawing in a deep breath. “We’ve done our share. There are projects we can still do on the Dyson sphere which are important. “Besides,” said Katie with a grin. “I want to see my grandkids someday.”

Angela and Kelsey both nodded. Perhaps it was indeed time for their explorations to come to an end.

-

Jeremy was back on board the battlestation reviewing the reports from Rear Admiral Barnes. It looked as if their goal of enlisting this cluster of galaxies in the war against the Eternals was well underway. They had been fortunate to contact a civilization like the Galactic Union. Jeremy wondered if there were other similar civilizations in any of the nearby galaxies.

“This looks very promising,” said Aaliss. “If we can use the resources of the Galactic Union, it should pose a serious threat to the Eternals’ continued advance through this section of the universe.”

Jeremy leaned back in the chair he was sitting in. He was in a small conference room just outside the Command Center of the battlestation. “I wonder if we should build a couple Originator shipyards here. We’re a long way from Originator space and it will take us seven or eight weeks to rush reinforcements here when the Eternals arrive.”

“Are you suggesting we build the shipyards here in the satellite galaxy or in the main galaxy?”

“Here in the satellite galaxy,” replied Jeremy. “We’ve as of yet to locate any major space going races. We could place an Accelerator Ring near the capital planet of the Galactic Union if they’ll agree. Transit time from the satellite galaxy to the capital system for our fleets would be cut to just a day or two at the most.”

Aaliss nodded. “We could set up some automated mining operations. From the destruction the Creevak caused we know where some of the primary mineral fields are located.”

“It would give us a powerful presence here. We could also place two of our forty-kilometer battlestations at the location of the shipyards for protection or even one of the new 170-kilometer battlestations.”

“It is a sound strategy,” replied Aaliss. “We would be opening up a second front against the Eternals. It may be just enough to deter them from attacking this section of the universe.”

Jeremy looked up at the viewscreen showing the satellite galaxy. “What if the Creevak return before the battlestation gets here? We’re still talking about several months.” This was a deep concern of Jeremy’s. The Creevak could throw a huge monkey wrench in his plans.

“They have to come through the anomaly,” replied Aaliss. “We can use that to our advantage.”

“We put more of our fleet there until the station arrives,” replied Jeremy. He wished now he had brought a larger fleet with him. He hadn’t thought it would be needed since he had the battlestation.

Aaliss nodded. “I have run some simulations. I believe the Creevak could send more than one ship through at a time and possibly very rapidly if they wanted to. Much of it is just conjecture as we don’t know a lot about how the anomaly functions. I would suggest putting at least half of our current fleet there to act as a blocking force. That many ships using dark matter weapons should be able to stop any Creevak ships from coming through.”

Jeremy let out a deep breath. The Creevak could still wreck his plans. “We’ll do that. Not only that but we’ll take the Avenger there as well.”

“What about our exploration ships?”

Jeremy adjusted the viewscreen to show the closer galaxies in this cluster. “We’ll use the Accelerator Ring to begin sending them to the nearer galaxies along with a reasonable escort. I’ll contact Rear Admiral Barnes and see if the Galactic Union would like to assign some of their people to the ships to see how we go about first contact.”

“That is wise,” replied Aaliss. “Once we demonstrate to the Galactic Union how we go about first contacts and bringing other races into the alliance against the Eternals, we can turn more of that work over to them. They can guide this galactic cluster in resisting the Eternals with our assistance.”

“I’ll contact Rear Admiral Barnes and inform her of our plan. We’ll recall all exploration ships except the New Horizon. Once the ships are here we’ll give the crews a few days off in the battlestation before sending them through the Accelerator Ring. I’ll start sending more warships to the anomaly as a precaution starting tomorrow. We’ll leave ourselves as soon as all the exploration ships have left on their missions.”

Aaliss closed her eyes briefly and then nodded. “I just informed the fleet’s AIs here at the battlestation and the ships nearby. They are in agreement with the planned strategy. However, they are of the opinion we should station one or two exploration dreadnoughts at the anomaly. Their highly advanced observation instruments might be able to discover valuable data about the anomaly.”

Jeremy agreed with the suggestion. The exploration dreadnoughts might give them advance warning if the Creevak started coming through. Jeremy stood up and looked at Aaliss. Even though she was an Originator AI, she was quite beautiful. Jeremy wondered if the form Aaliss inhabited had been modeled after a living Originator. Perhaps someday he would ask her. “I’m going to go get something to eat and then head back to the Avenger.”

“I’ll be back on board shortly,” replied Aaliss. “I need to speak with Ariel and then make sure all ships are sufficiently stocked for their missions.” The battlestation had numerous storage rooms packed full of supplies for the ships. There were also massive armories on board full of whatever munitions the ships might need.

-

Jeremy made his way to the nearest cafeteria where many members of the fleet’s crews tended to take their meals when they were on the station. Stepping inside he was surprised to see Kevin and Brace sitting at a table over to one side. Getting in line, he filled his plate with Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, and green beans. To top it off he added a couple of hot rolls with butter. Then he made his way to where his friends were sitting.

Kevin looked up, seeing Jeremy. Even now, he still had freckles on his face to go along with his red hair. “Hungry?”

Jeremy laughed. “Some. I thought you two would be down in the habitat area.”

“I’m helping with the combat robots on the battlestation,” explained Brace who was eating a pork steak and a baked potato. “Major Adkins requested some assistance and some information on how best to use the robots if the station is ever boarded by the Creevak or the Eternals and their warrior robots. We spent some time going over the critical areas of the station which would need to be defended.”

“How many combat robots are on the station?” Jeremy knew there were some though he had no idea of the total number.

“Six hundred combat robots and four hundred Marines,” replied Brace.

Jeremy took a bite of his Salisbury steak and then spoke. “We brought a lot of people out here with us. We’re a long ways from home and it might be a while before we can all get back to the Dyson sphere.”

“Soldiers and Marines will go where needed,” replied Brace. “They know their job and won’t hesitate to do it. Besides, this battlestation has some pretty good recreation areas plus the interior habitat is just like home.”

“We should make habitat areas in all of our battlestations going on long-range deployments,” said Jeremy. Jeremy figured it would be a great moral booster. “When I get back to the Dyson sphere and can speak to the Originator Council in person I’m going to recommend that.”

Kevin finished off his hamburger and eyed the three French fries still on his plate. “So, what’s the plan?”

“We’re going to send the exploration dreadnoughts along with escorts to the nearer galaxies. We’re also going to send more ships to guard the anomaly until the new battlestation gets here.”

“The Avenger?”

Jeremy looked over at Kevin. “I’m taking it to the anomaly to command the ships we’re going to have there. We must make sure the Creevak don’t come through before the new battlestation arrives.”

“When do we leave?”

“Probably three or four days.”

“When will the New Horizon be back?”

Jeremy recalled what Rear Admiral Barnes had said in her reports. “Probably another week or two. They’ll come here to the battlestation when they’re finished with their meetings with the Galactic Union representatives.”

“Let’s hope the Creevak don’t show up,” said Brace. “It could throw a wrench into all of our plans.”

Jeremy was in complete agreement. They were so close to accomplishing the primary goal of this mission in setting up a blockade point against the Eternals. Jeremy didn’t want anything to screw that up and the Creevak showing up could do just that.

-

In the Solar System, the setting of martial law and the impending attack by the Eternals had created a mad rush of the general population to be evacuated. Every hour shuttles were launching from Earth and Mars carrying evacuees up to the waiting Originator transport ships. As soon as a ship was loaded, it left orbit and headed to one of the two operational Accelerator Rings.

-

In orbit near Earth, Fleet Admiral Nagumo watched as the Accelerator Ring activated and six large Originator transport vessels entered the swirling blue vortex.

Commander Summers was standing near Fleet Admiral Nagumo watching the main viewscreen. “The evacuation is proceeding rapidly now. Our latest reports indicate an influx of evacuation requests from the planets of Talon and Bison in the 61 Cygni System as well as from Harmony in the Alpha Centauri System. Similar reports are coming in from Epsilon Indi and Procyon A.”

‘Goombridge, Serenity, and Bliss are screaming for their own Accelerator Rings,” commented Nagumo. “Unfortunately we don’t have time to send them one and it’s not practical to send the Originator transports that far.”

“So what are we telling them?” On the main viewscreen, the Accelerator Ring shut down until the next group of transports was ready to leave.

“We’re stalling,” replied Nagumo. “They had an opportunity earlier to support us in the war effort and refused to do so. We’re telling them as soon as the other evacuations are complete we’ll send the transports to them.”

“Admiral, we have a problem,” reported Lieutenant Pamela Meyers from Communications. “The mining colony on Juno is refusing to evacuate.”

A deep frown crossed Nagumo’s face. Juno was about 260 kilometers in diameter and one of the larger asteroids. It was also rich in heavy metals. There were several large mining operations on the asteroid with the majority of the inhabitants living in two massive domes.

“How many people are currently on Juno?”

Commander Summers stepped over to a computer console and called up some information. “There are twenty-eight thousand miners and their families on the asteroid.”

Nagumo knew all it would take would be a couple of missiles and the habitat domes would be history. They’d also be a tempting target for any Eternal vessel. “Commander Summers, set a course for Juno. Have the assault ship Phoenix join us as well as one of the Originator transports. President Treadway has declared martial law and we’ll use the Marines to remove the miners and their families.”

“There could be violence,” warned Commander Summers. “You know how the big mining corporations have been about this evacuation.”

“This is a situation we can control and it will set an example for the other mining and scientific outposts. We’ll use nonlethal force but I want every single miner and their families removed from Juno.”

-

A few minutes later the Luna, her escorts, the assault ship Phoenix, and one of the large Originator transports were on their way to Juno.

-

Mayor Brian Moss was in the Communications Center of the primary habitation dome on Juno. He had just received word from the home office on Earth, a fleet task group led by Fleet Admiral Nagumo was on its way to remove all the miners and their families from Juno.

“Like hell they will!” he muttered. The mining of heavy metals on Juno was a highly lucrative business and Brian’s bonuses were nearly off the scale. He wasn’t going to allow anything or anyone to risk that.

He turned to his second in command, Mike Adams. “Seal the mines so the military can’t get in. The miners can safely stay inside for several weeks if necessary using the emergency supply caches. Also, place armed guards at all entrances to the two domes to prevent them from getting in. If necessary I want those entrances barricaded.”

Adams looked doubtful. “This is the Federation military we’re talking about. If they want in, they’ll get in. Are you sure you want to do this?”

Mayor Moss glared at his second in command. “I’m not shutting the mines down and I don’t care what the military or the president says. Besides, they won’t dare risk injuring civilians.”

Adams nodded his head, still feeling doubtful about his orders. “I’ll take care of it but I think it’s a mistake.”

“You’re not paid to think but to follow orders,” replied Moss coldly.

Without another word, Adams left the Communications Center to carry out his instructions. He had a strong feeling this was not going to end well.

-

Using a quick hyperspace jump the small fleet made the transit to Juno to drop out a few thousand kilometers from the large inhabited asteroid.

“Who’s in charge down there?” asked Fleet Admiral Nagumo.

“A Mayor Brian Moss,” answered Commander Summers.

Nagumo turned toward Communications. “See if you can get Mayor Moss on the comm.”

After a few moments Lieutenant Meyers turned toward the admiral with a look of frustration on her face. “They tell me he’s busy and to check back tomorrow. You will also need an appointment to see him.”

“Like hell if I’m going to make an appointment. Contact the Phoenix and tell Colonel Swift he’s to use his troops and take possession of all the mines and both habitat domes. I don’t want anyone injured if possible. However, the Marines do have permission to protect themselves if they come under fire.”

“You don’t think it might come to that?” asked Summers.

Nagumo looked at Summers and then replied. “I hope not. But Mayor Moss sounds pretty stubborn.”

-

Six assault shuttles dropped toward the surface of Juno. Each one held a full platoon of Marines in full combat armor. Colonel Swift was in the first shuttle. He had decided to come along to ensure nothing went wrong. These were Federation citizens and their lives shouldn’t be placed in danger because of a stubborn company manager who had been elected mayor.

“We’ll be setting down on the landing platforms just outside the dome,” reported the pilot. “All landing lights have been turned off and the automatic beacon isn’t functioning.”

Swift looked at the corporal piloting the assault shuttle. “Is that going to be a problem?”

The pilot grinned. “No, sir. These shuttles are designed to land without outside assistance. It will be a piece of cake.”

Swift stepped back inside the main compartment where Lieutenant Johnson was sitting. “Lieutenant, it appears the mayor is being uncooperative. We’re probably going to have trouble getting inside. Have a couple of your people bring a portable airlock. We may have to break into the dome.”

Lieutenant Johnson’s eyes widened. “How dangerous is this going to be? What if we’re fired upon?”

“We fire back but only at those firing at us. I don’t want any innocents killed.”

“I’ll make the arrangements.”

-

Inside the dome, Mayor Moss was meeting with his head of security. He didn’t trust Adams to do what was necessary. “Smitty, the Marines are getting ready to land. I don’t want them getting inside the dome.”

Smitty looked curiously at the mayor. “We’re talking about heavily armed Marines. My people won’t be able to stop them if they’re determined to get in.”

“They won’t shoot at civilians,” declared Moss. “Just prevent them from getting in. If it looks as if we’re going to resist they’ll pull back and leave us alone.”

“Maybe,” replied Smitty with a look of doubt on his face. “I’ll gather a team of my best people and see what we can do. But I should warn you, if those Marines want in badly enough they’ll get in no matter what we do.”

“They’ll back off,” replied Moss confidently. “Now go stop them, I’ve got a mining operation to run.”

-

Smitty left the mayor’s office and gathered up a dozen of his most trusted men. All were armed with shotguns and they quickly headed to the main airlock nearest to the colony’s small spaceport. He already knew that was where the Marines were landing.

It didn’t take them long to reach the airlock. In front of it was a huge stack of shipping crates and several vehicles. It would take the Marines some time to break through.

“Take cover. When the Marines break in fire your shotguns up into the air and not at the Marines.”

“Why not at the Marines?” asked Gondoza, who at times had difficulty following orders.

“If you fire on the Marines they’ll kill all of us. We’re just firing warning shots. I’m hoping that will be enough to force them to withdraw rather than risk getting involved in a firefight.”

“If you say so,” replied Gondoza.

A red light was flashing above the airlock indicating someone was trying to access it from the outside. The power to the airlock had been turned off so it was nonfunctional. “Take cover and do it now!” ordered Smitty as he moved over and took cover behind a parked truck.

-

“The power to the airlocks been cut,” reported Sergeant Rajas. “We’re going to have to cut our way in.”

Colonel Swift had expected this after hearing how uncooperative the mayor was. “Cut it open but set up the portable airlock. I don’t want to lose the air in the dome and kill the civilians inside.”

“We’ll take the necessary precautions,” promised Rajas. “I’ve done this type of work before.”

Colonel Swift watched as the large portable airlock was attached and the Marines began cutting into the main airlock. Behind Swift six platoons of Marines waited. “As soon as we’ve breached the dome take two platoons inside.”

Lieutenant Johnson nodded as he ordered two of the platoons forward as he took the lead.

As soon as Johnson and his Marines were in the dome, Colonel Swift would go in with the other four platoons. He wanted to get this done as quickly and safely as possible.

-

Smitty was getting nervous. At any moment he expected to see the Marines break into the dome. He had no sooner thought that when he saw the tall pile of crates begin to wobble and suddenly come crashing down. We shouldn’t have parked those vehicles so close to the airlock, he thought. Now we can’t see what the Marines are doing.

Suddenly several Marines appeared around the trucks, their assault rifles held at the ready. The Marines were completely encased in gray body armor including a helmet which protected them from the lack of atmosphere outside the dome. “Fire into the air!” Smitty ordered as he fired several warning shots upward. The dome was high enough there was no danger of the shotgun pellets penetrating it. Even if a few did, the self-sealing substance layered in the dome walls would quickly seal any small leaks.

Shotguns began firing and the Marines froze in place, looking frantically around to spot who was firing. All at once one of the Marines fell, the faceplate on his helmet shot away.

Smitty felt stunned as he saw Gondoza advancing on the Marines and firing shot after shot at them. Almost instantly the Marines sprang into action and began returning fire. Gondoza fell to the ground, pierced by over a dozen rounds. More of Smitty’s men began firing at the Marines and a full-scale fire fight broke out.

“Hold your fire!” screamed Smitty as several rounds struck near him. He quickly threw down his shotgun and raised his hands. His men, seeing him surrendering, stopped firing and did the same. However, before they did four of them had been killed. Smitty felt a cold chill run down his back. His men had killed a Marine and now some of them were dead. All because Gondoza couldn’t follow orders!

-

More Marines came pouring through the airlock and soon over one hundred of them were standing in the dome.

“What happened here?” demanded Colonel Swift, seeing the dead Marine and five dead civilians.

“They opened fire on us, killing Corporal Boyles,” reported Sergeant Rajas. “We had no choice but to return fire.”

“Who is in charge here?” demanded Colonel Swift as he went over to where the prisoners were being held.

One held up his hand. “I’m Smitty. These are my men. They were instructed to fire only warning shots. Gondoza disobeyed my orders and fired on your Marines. We didn’t intend to kill anyone.”

Colonel Swift didn’t reply for a minute and then spoke directly to Smitty. “Who ordered you to stop us from entering the dome? The entire Federation is under martial law and we have orders to evacuate the people here.”

“It was Mayor Moss,” Smitty replied nervously. “I was only following his orders.”

Colonel Swift turned toward Lieutenant Johnson. “Take two platoons and arrest Mayor Moss. We’ll charge him with insurrection in a time of martial law. I want him shackled and taken up to the Phoenix. Once he’s up there put him in the brig.”

“What about these other men?” asked Lieutenant Johnson.

“Put them in the brig as well. We’ll evaluate their situation on a case-by-case basis as soon as we get this mess sorted out. Also, assign some Marines to get this airlock functional. We’re going to need it to evacuate these people.”

-

On board the Luna, Fleet Admiral Nagumo listened as Colonel Swift made his report. Nagumo wasn’t pleased with five civilians being killed, however the civilians had fired first, killing a Marine.

“Have the Originator transport ship begin sending down shuttles. I want those domes and the mines evacuated within the next twenty-four hours.”

“Then what?” asked Commander Summers.

Nagumo grinned. “We’re going to Jupiter. I want to speak to a certain manager of the Selvin Corporation. He’s about to learn what it means when he’s told to evacuate.”

Summers nodded. He had heard about Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen’s visit to Ganymede.

“We’re going to spend the next few days evacuating all the outer colonies and outposts in the Solar System.”

Nagumo had decided it was time to flex the muscles of the military. These corporations needed to learn who was in charge and it wasn’t them. He also wanted to reduce the number of targets the Eternals might attempt to take out. However, the visit to the Selvin Corporation on Ganymede was one he was going to enjoy. There was a good chance by the time the Phoenix got back to Earth, its brig would be full of corporate people.

Chapter Twenty

Admiral Qurant patiently listened to the reports from the commanders of the stealth battlecruisers who had been reconnoitering Human and Alton space. He was surprised at the number of worlds the two species seemed to inhabit and control. Qurant had been assigned overall command since he had considerable experience in battling the Humans.

“It seems both the Humans and the Altons are expecting us to attack,” said Qurant as he studied the data. “They have amassed their fleets around their primary worlds and increased the orbital defenses. We were not expecting that.”

“What should we do?” asked Second Commander Anston. “We have forty-one thousand battlecruisers. Surely the Humans and the Altons cannot resist such a force.”

Admiral Qurant was using his nanites to help clarify his thinking. “I don’t believe there is any star system other than a Shrieel which can withstand the attack of forty-one thousand of our warships. Our orders are to destroy the Human and Alton worlds and that is exactly what we will do.”

“We will send thirteen thousand battlecruisers to destroy the Alton worlds. Our scans of their systems indicate they are not as militaristic as the Humans. We will divide our remaining ships into two fleets of fourteen thousand each and attack the Human worlds. We will start with the smaller systems first so we can test their defenses. They are also the most lightly defended.”

“A wise decision,” replied Anston. “It is best we know more about the Humans of this galaxy before we attack their primary systems.”

“It will take Admiral Larvol three days to reach Alton space. We will time our attacks so we begin our assaults on the Human and Alton worlds at the same time. We are the Eternals and we will be victorious.”

-

 Rear Admiral Karl Quinton was in command of the strikecruiser Valiant. He had sixty light cruisers in his fleet formation. He was in the Epsilon Eridani System where the two inhabited worlds of Serenity and Bliss were located. So far his deployment had been uneventful as the main attack by the Eternals was expected to be against New Tellus and the Solar System.

“I would feel better if Serenity or Bliss would turn their fleets over to us,” commented Commander Anne Gilbert. “It would give us considerably more firepower if the Eternals were to show up.”

Quinton nodded. He had spoken to the commanders of the two small defensive fleets and both had refused. He was told they had strict orders to stay in orbit around the planets. Quinton was certain those orders had come from Senators Adams and Hanford. Almost daily the two senators contacted him demanding to know when more ships would show up.

“We’re picking up an inbound hyperspace track,” reported the sensor officer.

Quinton was confused. There were no ships scheduled to arrive today. There was a small convoy under military escort due tomorrow. He wondered if they could be early.

Quinton turned toward Communications. “Contact the ships and see who they are.” They were close enough that hyperspace communications should be almost instantaneous.

The command crew waited patiently to see who the fleet belonged to. There was always a chance Fleet Admiral Nagumo had sent more ships as Senators Adams and Hanford had been demanding.

“No response, sir,” reported the communications officer.

A cold chill went down Rear Admiral Quinton’s back. This wasn’t good; something was wrong. “Take us to Condition Two and prepare to enter hyperspace. We’ll jump to the location where that fleet emerges.”

“What if they’re Eternals?” asked Commander Gilbert, her face turning pale.

Quinton was silent for several moments and then replied. “Let’s hope they’re not. “Lieutenant Trent, send messages to both the fleets around Serenity and Bliss and recommend they go to Condition Two. Inform them we are tracking an unidentified fleet inbound toward the system.”

A minute passed and then Lieutenant Trent turned toward the admiral. “Messages sent. They report they’re also tracking the inbound fleet. They’re putting the defensive grids around both planets on full alert and have ordered all shipping to jump to New Tellus.”

Commander Gilbert was standing behind the sensor console studying the data coming in. With a shudder, she looked toward Rear Admiral Quinton. “We’re detecting what looks like thousands of inbound ships. Tentative identification indicates they’re Eternal battlecruisers. Cargo and passenger ships are exiting the system.”

Quinton felt his breath catch in his throat. He was relieved the civilian ships were leaving. “Do we know for sure how many we’re facing?”

Gilbert shook her head. “No, sir. The ships are so close together we can’t get an accurate count.”’

Quinton made a quick decision. “Take us into hyperspace and put us into orbit twenty thousand kilometers above Bliss.” Bliss had the largest population in the system at nearly 720 million. “Communications, send an emergency signal to Fleet Admiral Nagumo and New Tellus Station informing them we have a confirmed contact with an Eternal fleet. We expect to be engaged in a battle situation within the next several hours.”

“Do you think they can get reinforcements to us in time?” asked Gilbert, her eyes showing deep concern.

Quinton slowly shook his head. “By the time they do this will be over.”

“What will happen to us?”

“We’re Federation military. Our job is to defend this system.” Quinton didn’t bother to state the obvious.

The Valiant made the jump into hyperspace along with its escorting light cruisers. The trip to Bliss didn’t take long and soon the strikecruiser was orbiting in space above the planet. On the main viewscreen, the planet Bliss appeared. Only about 60 percent of the landmass on Bliss was habitable. The planet consisted of about 18 percent water and the climate was arid in many locations. Only along the equator where there was more water was the climate more temperate. It was here much of the population lived.

“I have Commander Everest on the comm,” reported Lieutenant Trent. “He’s requesting to turn over command of his fleet to you as well as the orbital defenses.”

“I accept,” replied Rear Admiral Quinton. “Have him move his ships into our formation. We’ll form a battle wedge facing the enemy and then wait and see what happens.”

On the main tactical display, the eighty ships around Bliss began to move. There were twelve strikecruisers and the rest were light cruisers.

“That gives us one hundred and forty ships,” reported Commander Gilbert.

“That would be a good size fleet in normal times,” replied Quinton. “But we’re about to go up against battlecruisers four kilometers in length. Just one of those ships has more mass than all of our light cruisers combined.”

“Eternal fleet has entered the system,” reported the sensor officer. “I have a better estimate on the size of the fleet. Sensors are indicating at least ten thousand Eternal battlecruisers probably more.”

“Ten thousand,” said Gilbert barely able to speak. “We can’t take on a force like that.”

“What are you suggesting? That we abandon Bliss and let the Eternals destroy it without putting up a fight?”

Commander Gilbert took a deep breath. “No, sir. Our duty is to defend the civilians of the Federation or die trying.”

Quinton nodded. “We shall do our duty. Take us to Condition One.”

Instantly alarms began sounding and red lights started flashing. Over the comm a message was sent to all ships of the fleet. “Condition One has now been set. Prepare for immediate combat. The use of nuclear and antimatter weapons has been authorized.”

“Has there been a reply from Admiral Nagumo or from New Tellus?”

Lieutenant Trent shook his head. “No, not yet.”

Rear Admiral Quinton stared at the tactical display as the fleet from Bliss formed up with his own. The fleet was in a wedge formation with the strikecruisers in the center and only they were armed with one hundred-megaton antimatter missiles. The light cruisers were armed with twenty-megaton fusion warheads. Quinton wished he had a few battleships or even some Originator battlecruisers. As it was, this was probably going to be a short battle and the Human fleet was going to be on the losing end.

“All ships are at Condition One,” reported Commander Gilbert. “Wedge formation has been achieved and all ships report ready for combat.”

On the main viewscreen, Quinton could see Bliss. The planet had a defensive grid of four hundred defensive satellites armed with particle beams. There were also two Indomitable Class Battlestations in orbit as well as six Class Two Battlestations. Only the Indomitable Battlestations were armed with antimatter missiles.

“We’re being scanned,” reported the sensor officer. “The Eternal fleet is reentering hyperspace. Trajectory indicates their target is Serenity,”

“Do we go to Serenity?” asked Commander Gilbert, her eyes wide with worry and a hint of fear.

“No,” replied Rear Admiral Quinton, trying to calm his racing pulse. “If we commit our forces to Serenity then we leave Bliss wide open to attack and it has by far the larger population.”

“I have Senator Adams on the comm,” reported Lieutenant Trent. “He’s demanding we send our fleet to Serenity immediately.”

Quinton took a deep breath. “Inform the senator our fleet is committed to defending Bliss and we have nothing to send to Serenity.” He knew he was dooming the planet but there was nothing he could do. If he survived this battle, which he doubted, this decision would haunt him for the rest of his life.

-

Admiral Qurant studied the ship’s tactical display. They had exited hyperspace twenty thousand kilometers from the target planet. Sensors indicated a weak defensive grid and what appeared to be six small battlestations around the planet. There was also a small fleet of twenty vessels; four large ones and sixteen support vessels.

“No others detected,” reported Second Commander Anston.

Admiral Qurant was pleased. This assured a quick and easy victory. “Close with the planet and destroy its orbital defenses and that small fleet of ships. We will then bombard the surface with high yield nuclear weapons.” The plan was to make the surface of the Human worlds uninhabitable for years to come.

-

Senator Adams sat in his office with a stiff drink sitting on the desk in front of him. The small fleet in orbit could not protect Serenity and he knew there was nothing he could do to save his world. In hindsight, he realized his opposition to increasing military spending and fortifying his home planet had brought about its doom. He took a drink, feeling the fiery liquid slide down his throat.

Reports from Defense Command indicated the defensive grid was under heavy attack and expected to fail shortly. The small defending fleet had been wiped out in less than a minute. When the defensive grid was destroyed, the military experts expected the Eternals to bombard the planet. There were a few defensive missile batteries around the military bases but they would not survive for long.

Getting up, he walked over to the large window in his office carrying his drink in his right hand. In the far distance, there was a brilliant flash of light and moments later a sound like distant thunder but much louder. More flashes appeared, some farther away and others closer. After a moment Senator Adams felt his eyes start to burn and seeing was becoming more difficult. He realized the distant flashes were blinding him. Suddenly there was a loud roaring sound and a blast of superheated air blew the window in. Adams stumbled and fell to the floor, dropping his glass. He lay there for a moment struggling to breath in the sudden heat and then lost consciousness.

-

Admiral Qurant watched the world beneath his fleet burn. Multiple mushroom clouds were visible and more missiles were still striking the planet. Already the atmosphere was starting to turn dark from the rising ash and radioactive contaminants. In a few more minutes the bombardment would be over and they would go back into hyperspace to attack the other inhabited planet in the system. That one had a larger defensive fleet but Qurant wasn’t concerned. There were less than one hundred and fifty defending ships and his fleet would make short work of them.

-

The command crew on the Valiant stared in horror at the viewscreen and what was happening to Serenity. Brilliant flashes of light continued to erupt across its surface.

“This is overkill,” said an angry Commander Gilbert. “Why don’t they stop?”

“They’re the Eternals,” replied Rear Admiral Quinton in a subdued voice. “They came here to wipe us out and to destroy our worlds.”

Gilbert turned to face the admiral. “Bliss will be next.”

Quinton nodded. “And we’ll do what we can to defend it.”

Time seemed to pass slowly and then finally the time came when the Eternal fleet entered hyperspace. Rear Admiral Quinton sat in his command chair waiting for the appearance of the Eternals. He felt unusually calm though he knew his death was probably only minutes away.

“Spatial vortexes are opening,” called out the sensor operator in a confused voice.

Suddenly from the swirling blue-white vortexes, Originator battlecruisers began appearing.

For a moment Quinton felt hope and then the vortexes closed. “How many?”

“Eighty-seven battlecruisers,” replied Commander Gilbert.

“Dreadnoughts?”

“None.”

“Have the battlecruisers join our formation. Quinton knew the battlecruisers had been sent by an Accelerator Ring and that was why they had not been detected before they arrived in the system.

“I have a communication from the military AI in charge of the Originator ships,” reported Lieutenant Trent. “He’s placing his fleet under your command and is requesting orders.”

“Put them in the wedge,” ordered Quinton. At least now his fleet would have more firepower. He was grateful for the arrival of the Originator battlecruisers; he just wished there would have been more.

“I have an accurate count on the Eternal fleet,” reported the sensor officer. “We’re facing fourteen thousand Eternal battlecruisers. “None were destroyed at Serenity.”

On the main viewscreen, the Originator battlecruisers began moving into the wedge formation. At the same time the Eternal fleet began to emerge from hyperspace.

-

“The Humans have been reinforced by eighty-seven Originator battlecruisers,” reported Second Commander Anston.

“It is of no concern,” replied Admiral Qurant. “Eighty-seven Originator ships will not change the outcome of the coming battle. They are too few. We will destroy them along with the Human ships. If eighty-seven ships are all they can send to save this world, it indicates to me they are unwilling to commit the necessary forces to defend the Humans. Victory will be ours for we are the Eternals.”

-

“Eternal forces have formed up into a massive wall formation twenty ships high and five hundred ships long,” reported the sensor officer. “The remaining Eternal ships have formed up into lines eight ships high and five hundred ships long behind the front group of ships.”

Commander Gilbert looked at Rear Admiral Quinton. Her face was pale and her eyes wide. “They’re all going to fire at once!”

“Vortexes opening behind the Eternal fleet!” shouted the sensor officer. “We have more Originator ships coming through. Detecting dreadnoughts!”

Quinton’s eyes shifted to the tactical display as friendly green icons began to appear behind the Eternal fleet. Not just a few but hundreds. After a minute the vortexes closed. “How many?”

“Detecting 142 dreadnoughts and 512 battlecruisers. Originator fleet is forming up into a cone formation with the dreadnoughts in the center and is advancing on the Eternals.”

Rear Admiral Quinton didn’t hesitate. “We will advance and engage the enemy. We’ll have the enemy pinned between us and the Originator fleet.”

Commander Gilbert looked in surprise at the admiral but didn’t comment. They were still outnumbered by nearly eighteen to one and the Eternals had the larger and more powerfully armed ships. She wondered who was actually trapping who.

-

“Originator warships have emerged from hyperspace behind us,” reported the sensor officer. “Sensors show 142 dreadnoughts and 512 battlecruisers.”

“Readjust our formation,” ordered Admiral Qurant. “The rear section of ships will turn to face this new threat. We still outnumber them significantly. Fire all weapons when we’re within range.” Using his nanites, he confirmed these new ships would not be a major threat. His numerical advantage would quickly overwhelm them.

-

The three fleets closed with each other. A minute passed and suddenly all hell broke loose in space. The fleets launched missiles and began firing their energy beams. Space became lit up with small explosions as some of the missiles were intercepted. Massive explosions began to erupt against the energy screens of the warships as nuclear, antimatter, and dark matter missiles began reaching their targets.

The light cruisers in Rear Admiral Quinton’s fleet turned broadside and opened fire with their main batteries, quickly scoring several hits with their pulse fusion batteries and particle beam cannons. Improved Devastator Four missiles with fifty-megaton fusion warheads were being launched in rapid succession as the light cruisers tried to empty their missile bunkers before the ships were destroyed.

An Eternal antimatter missile slammed into the stern of a light cruiser and the ship vanished in a fiery explosion. Another was riddled by energy beams, leaving it a lifeless hulk.

Energy beams penetrated the shield of a strikecruiser, blowing several pulse fusion turrets to shreds and blasting out several large holes in the hull. Inside the ship emergency crews rushed to contain the damage as several small secondary explosions shook the ship.

All across the wedge formation of Rear Admiral Quinton, the light cruisers were being blown apart from the massive firepower being flung at them by the Eternal fleet. Their energy shields were not strong enough to resist the powerful energy beams tearing through their shields.

-

The Valiant shook violently as several antimatter missiles slammed into the energy shield. In the Command Center several consoles shorted out, sending hot sparks flying through the air.

Quinton was holding on to his command chair as he shouted orders to his command crew. “Get those fires out! I want all of our strikecruisers to target just one of those Eternal battlecruisers. Pour on the firepower until we bring its shield down.”

Glancing at the tactical display, he saw his light cruiser icons flaring up and vanishing. “All Originator battlecruisers in our formation are to work in groups of three and focus on just one Eternal warship. We’re spreading our weapons fire out too much and it’s not being effective.”

The Valiant suddenly shook as if struck by a giant hammer. On the damage control console several red lights flared up.

“We just took several energy beam hits to the hull,” reported the damage control officer. “We lost two power beam turrets, one particle beam turret, and three missile tubes are non-functioning. We have several compartments open to space and I’ve sealed them off. Damage repair teams are responding.”

On the viewscreen, an Eternal battlecruiser blew apart in a brilliant fireball.

“We got one of them!” said Commander Gilbert in elation.

On the screen, several more Eternal ships blew apart as the Originator battlecruisers focused their firepower.

“All of our light cruisers are gone,” reported the sensor officer. “Their shields couldn’t hold up to the Eternal weapons.”

On the tactical display, three of Quinton’s strikecruisers vanished as they were destroyed by heavy Eternal weapons fire. Even the Originator battlecruisers were beginning to suffer losses. On the main viewscreen, he saw one of the battlecruisers vanish under a massive explosion from an Eternal antimatter missile. When the fury of the explosion died away all that remained was a shattered hulk.

-

The Originator fleet was having more success against the Eternals. They were working in groups of three and consistently turning Eternal battlecruisers into massive fireballs of released energy. However, the Eternals had superior numbers and were systematically destroying the attacking Originator ships.

-

Admiral Qurant stood silently as his fleet destroyed the two opposing forces which were trying to keep him from reaching the planet. He watched as his warships blew the enemy vessels apart in fiery explosions. On the massive tactical display, he frowned as several of his battlecruiser icons vanished from the screen indicating they had been lost.

“The enemy have taken out forty-two of our warships,” reported Second Commander Anston.

“Continue to focus our fire,” ordered Admiral Qurant. “They are being destroyed at nearly a five to one rate compared to our own losses. This will be over shortly.”

He watched as the Human fleet guarding the planet was quickly decimated until only three of their larger vessels remained plus seven Originator battlecruisers. Those would soon be gone.

-

Rear Admiral Quinton watched despondently as his fleet was destroyed by the Eternals. Soon death would take him as well. A sudden explosion shook the ship violently and he heard people screaming. Several light panels fell from the ceiling as well as some small support beams. Looking up he saw a beam falling just before it struck him in the head, knocking him unconscious.

-

Commander Gilbert saw the beam strike the admiral and assumed he was dead. She didn’t have time to check as the ship was in danger of being destroyed. “Take us into hyperspace and set a course for New Tellus,” she ordered. There was no point in staying as the Valiant was so heavily damaged it no longer served as any kind of a threat to the Eternals. The least she could do was save the lives of the surviving crew.

Moments later the battered strikecruiser made the transition into hyperspace and fled the battle.

-

The Originator ships opposing the Eternals continued the battle. Both opposing fleets were covered in massive explosions from the powerful blasts of both antimatter and dark matter missiles. Ships continued to die but the superior numbers possessed by the Eternals were beginning to have an overwhelming effect against the Originator ships as they were quickly being eliminated. Finally the Originator military AI in charge gave the order to withdraw as he was losing ships at far too fast a rate.

-

Admiral Qurant watched as the few surviving Originator ships fled into hyperspace and left the system. “What were our losses?”

“Eighty-three battlecruisers,” reported Second Commandeer Anston.

“Reform our formation and have the fleet advance on the planet. We will destroy its defenses and then nuke it from orbit.”

-

The Eternal fleet adjusted its formation and advanced on the planet. The defense grid opened fire, including the Type Two Battlestations as well as the Indomitable ones. Two Eternal battlecruisers were quickly eliminated and others damaged primarily from the fire from the Indomitables.

The Eternal fleet opened fire on the defense grid, quickly blasting it from orbit. The space above Bliss became brilliant with explosions. The Indomitable Battlestations lasted the longest and managed to take out three more Eternal battlecruisers but in the end they too were blown apart from the intense firepower of the Eternal fleet.

-

On the surface of Bliss in the capital city Senator Hanford watched the brilliant explosions of light in orbit. He knew full well what they meant. Most of the population had taken shelter in the underground sections of buildings and the basements in their homes but Hanford knew that wouldn’t do any good. He had watched on viewscreens what happened to Serenity.

Looking upward, he saw missile trails in the sky. Defensive missiles were launched and at first many of the inbound missiles were intercepted. However, the stockpile of interceptor missiles was soon exhausted and the defensive fire came to a stop. Moments later a forty-megaton nuclear missile detonated directly over Senator Hanford, incinerating him and most of the capital city.

Across Bliss hundreds of powerful nuclear weapons dropped, annihilating cities and creating multiple firestorms. The air turned dark as it was filled with ash. Hurricane force winds from the explosions leveled everything. The radiation count rapidly rose until nothing could survive. When the missiles stopped falling Bliss was a dead planet. Its 720 million people were dead and it would be hundreds of years before life could return to the devastated planet.

Chapter Twenty-One

Admiral Tolsen was in the Command Center of the WarHawk listening to the reports of the battle in the Epsilon Eridani System. Only Rear Admiral Quinton’s ship had survived from the system’s defenders. The admiral was severely injured and his ship was heavily damaged. The military AI Tolsen had sent to help had reported the loss of most of his ships for a minimal return against the Eternals.

“We’re getting reports of Haven in the Goombridge System being attacked,” reported Lieutenant Tasha Burns. “The defending fleet has been destroyed and the planet is currently under bombardment. Estimated size of the attacking Eternal fleet is fourteen thousand vessels.”

“That’s twenty-eight thousand,” commented Commander Haskins.

“The Altons are also under attack,” added Zamdol. “The Eternal fleet there is estimated at thirteen thousand vessels.”

“Forty-one thousand total,” said Commander Haskins, shaking his head. “That’s one hell of a fleet.”

“The next target will most likely be Jewel in the Epsilon Indi System,” continued Zamdol. “It has a population of over 2.4 billion people.”

“There are two Eternal fleets attacking us,” Race said, glancing over at Zamdol. “Where will the second fleet attack?”

“Procyon A. It has a population of 1.4 billion.”

Race leaned back in his command chair. There was an Acceleration Ring in the Epsilon Indi System. There wasn’t one at Procyon A because its government had refused to recognize the threat. However, Garrison did have a reasonable sized Federation fleet due to its large population.

“Contact the Dyson sphere,” ordered Race to Lieutenant Burns. I want two thousand Originator battlecruisers and two hundred dreadnoughts sent to Garrison immediately. I want those ships on the way within the hour.”

“Yes, sir,” replied Burns.

“Commander Haskins, we’re going to take our fleet to Jewel. We need to delay the Eternals long enough to allow as many people as possible to evacuate. I want all Originator evacuation transports sent to Jewel. We’ll follow them. Lieutenant Burns, get Admiral Crown on the comm. I need to tell him what I’m doing and that he’ll be in command until I get back.”

Race had decided the Eternals would no longer have any more easy victories. He was going to fight them every step of the way. If he had to drain the Dyson sphere in Shari space of all of their warships to accomplish that goal he would do just that.

-

Admiral Qurant spent nearly six hours in the system he had just destroyed. His ships had meticulously searched all the planets, moons, asteroids, and even the debris field around the system for any signs of Human habitats. A few mines had been found and these had been nuked to oblivion. During that time the damage his ships had suffered during the battle had been repaired. Every ship in his fleet was back to 100 percent combat effectiveness.

He looked over at Second Commandeer Anston. “Take the fleet back into hyperspace. It’s time we eliminated our next target.”

Second Commander Anston stepped over to the helm and a few moments later the entire fleet of fourteen thousand warships were back in hyperspace. In seven more hours they would be attacking their next target.

-

Admiral Race Tolsen breathed out a sigh of relief as his fleet exited the Accelerator Ring in the Epsilon Indi System near the planet Jewel. Jewel was the fourth planet out from the sun and extremely Earth-like. The planet was 54 percent water with ice caps at each pole. The climate was similar to Earth’s and the first explorers had sent back reports they had found a jewel of a world. Hence the planet’s name: Jewel.

“There’s massive ship traffic,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “Sensors are detecting passenger liners, cargo ships, and Originator transport vessels all lining up to go through the ring. There’s a steady flow of shuttles coming up from the planet and rendezvousing with ships in orbit.”

“They’re using every vessel of every type to evacuate the planet,” commented Commander Haskins. “They know time is running out.”

Zamdol closed his eyes briefly. “It’s not possible to evacuate this world before the Eternals arrive. They may be able to evacuate at most between 8 to 10 percent of the population.”

“Place the fleet on the far side of the ring,” ordered Race. “That’s the most likely direction the Eternals will come from. Is the Accelerator Ring ready to self-destruct?”

Zamdol nodded his head. “Yes, the military AI in charge of the ring has twelve antimatter warheads ready to detonate upon command. They are in strategic locations to ensure no technology can survive which might allow the Eternals to duplicate and build their own rings. He also has combat robots at those locations to ensure the warheads are not disarmed by the Eternals.”

Race looked at the viewscreen showing the massive Accelerator Ring. His fleet was still coming through. He had six hundred dreadnoughts and four thousand battlecruisers to take on the Eternal fleet.

“What’s the status of the Federation fleet in the system?”

“It’s considerable,” replied Commander Haskins. “There are 212 battleships and 573 strikecruisers. In orbit around Jewel are six Indomitable Class Battlestations and twenty Type Two Battlestations. In addition, there are twelve hundred defense satellites armed with particle beam cannons. There’s also a large shipyard and two civilian stations. The shipyard is heavily armed and the civilian stations only have defensive weaponry.”

“Who is in command?”

“Rear Admiral Victor Merlin. He’s from Jewel and is reported to be a good tactician. His officers like and respect him.”

Race stood staring at the viewscreen as the last of his fleet exited the Accelerator Ring. It deactivated and almost instantly reactivated as the waiting ships with Human cargo began moving into the swirling vortex. “We’ll form the fleet up in an inverted cone formation. I want two hundred of the dreadnoughts at the apex of the cone with the rest spread throughout the formation. We’ll try to keep the Eternals from the ring for as long as possible.”

Race then contacted Rear Admiral Merlin. “Rear Admiral Merlin, I’m taking command. What’s the current status of your fleet?”

“We’re ready,” replied Merlin. “I must say I’m pleased with the arrival of your fleet. I was afraid the Federation had written us off.”

“Not yet,” replied Race. “We’ll do the best we can to hold the Eternals off but even my fleet may not be enough. We are looking at engaging about fourteen thousand Eternal warships.”

“Fourteen thousand!” repeated Merlin, sounding stunned. “Are any more reinforcements on the way?”

“Not at the moment. I want you to position your fleet around the Indomitable Class Battlestations. We’re going to do everything we can to keep the Eternals away from Jewel.”

Race leaned back in his command chair. The primary viewscreen was focused on the Accelerator Ring and the rush of ships trying to enter the vortex. There were several Originator battlecruisers hovering near the ring acting as traffic control. Race had Communications tune into the comm frequency the battlecruisers and civilian vessels were using. Orders were flying out from the battlecruisers instructing civilian ships of their proper place in the line and spacing. There was a semblance of order as the convoys were formed, though Race knew from the panicky voices of the ship captains they wanted out of the system as rapidly as possible.

“Commander Haskins, assign one of our dreadnoughts to aid in setting up the convoys.”

“I’ll assign the Clements. Their commander has experience with fleet traffic control. He should be able to get this mess better organized.”

Race nodded. He wanted as many people as possible out of this system. When the Eternals arrived he didn’t know how long he would be able to hold them back before he was forced to withdraw.

-

In orbit of the Moon, Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen was reading the latest reports on fleet readiness. She had already sent a request to the Dyson sphere for four thousand more battlecruisers.

“The Eternals have hit the Altons as well,” reported Commander Macleod. “Messages from the Alton homeworld indicate two systems destroyed with heavy loss of life. Admiral Bachal is requesting additional reinforcements from the Dyson sphere. Scans of the Eternal fleet in Alton space indicate its strength at around thirteen thousand vessels.”

Massie looked concerned. “That’s forty-one thousand ships they’ve committed to wiping us and the Altons out.”

“Is that all of them? Is there a reserve force hanging out there we don’t know about?”

Massie narrowed her eyes. “It’s a possibility. Maybe we should begin sending some scouts to all nearby systems and see what’s out there. I’ll contact Fleet Admiral Nagumo. That would be a good job for his light cruisers as they’re pretty useless against an Eternal battlecruiser.”

“Your brother has taken his fleet to Jewel. He’s going to be engaging a superior Eternal fleet. He could use some reinforcements.”

“I know,” replied Massie. “We need to get more ships from the Dyson sphere to help even up the odds. We’ve been hesitant to bring in all of our forces until we knew for sure what we were facing.”

“People are dying,” pointed out Commander Macleod. “We need those ships now.”

Looking at the viewscreen focused on the Moon, Massie drew in a deep breath. There was a risk bringing in so many ships from the Dyson sphere. The Eternals were no fools and knew there was a Dyson sphere in this galaxy. They might have another massive fleet nearby waiting to see what ships the Originators were willing to commit. If too many ships were pulled away from the Dyson sphere there was a chance the Eternals might target it. Or they could be waiting to see what forces the Originators committed before they send in their main fleet. That was what was worrying Massie and she knew Race had been concerned about this possibility as well. What if the three fleets the Eternals had committed were only probes and the primary fleet hadn’t made its move yet?

-

Admiral Qurant waited patiently as his fleet moved closer to its next target. This was a more heavily populated system and very heavily defended. He was also concerned about an object reported to be near the inhabited planet. It was a mysterious ring one hundred kilometers in diameter. The stealth ship had reported there were several Originator battlecruisers near the ring and looked as if they were guarding it.

“It must be of Originator design,” said Second Commander Anston.

“But what is its purpose?”

“Perhaps it opens a hyperspace vortex?”

Qurant considered what Anston said. “Why such a large vortex? Even if it does open a vortex it must have some other use.”

Anston nodded his head in agreement. “We should send some of our warrior robots to capture the construct. It may tell us a lot about Originator technology.”

“See to it,” ordered Qurant. “Contact the other ships in our fleet and inform them the ring is not to be damaged. We want to capture it intact.”

“We will be in range of the system within two hours,” reported the navigation officer.

Admiral Qurant suspected there would be a much greater battle in this system. The Humans would not want to lose control of the ring and scans from the stealth battlecruiser sent to this system had found a substantial defensive fleet as well as a powerful defensive grid. It would matter little in the end. He had the superior fleet and he would destroy the defending fleet, the defenses, and then nuke the planet.

-

Admiral Tolsen sat in his command chair watching the tactical display for any signs of the Eternals. Ships sent to the Epsilon Eridani System had confirmed both Bliss and Serenity had been destroyed. The same with the planet of Haven in the Goombridge System. That was nearly two billion Federation citizens slaughtered by the Eternals. Race wondered if he could have done anything differently to save those worlds. He might have committed more warships but in the end the results would have been the same. He would have suffered major fleet losses and the worlds would still have been destroyed.

“Several ships in hyperspace have reported detecting the Eternal fleet,” reported Lieutenant Burns. “They’re about two hours out.”

Race let out a deep sigh. He had hoped for more time to evacuate more civilians. “Contact Rear Admiral Merlin and inform him we expect the Eternals to arrive in about two hours. Also, contact the government on Jewel and let them know. Tell Commander Jones of the Clements he has two hours to get all those ships through the Accelerator Ring. I want all fleet units including Rear Admiral Merlin’s fleet and the defense grid around Jewel to go to Condition Three.”

“Have all the moon, asteroid colonies, and outposts been evacuated?”

“Yes, sir,” replied Commander Haskins. “From the reports I’ve received from Jewel the last evacuees from the colonies and outposts went through the Accelerator Ring two days ago. We only have the planet to worry about.”

Race nodded. There were probably still more than two billion people on Jewel. He felt a tightness in his throat knowing there was not going to be enough time to evacuate them.

-

Admiral Qurant gazed at the tactical display, now showing the Human system his fleet was approaching. It was obvious a large Originator fleet was in the system close to the mysterious ring. “We will engage the Originator fleet first and once we’ve destroyed it take possession of the ring. Once we’ve accomplished that we’ll move on the planet.”

“We have confirmed the ring has an operating spatial vortex. Many Human ships are entering the ring. There are some large Originator transport vessels here as well.”

“Fleeing the system, no doubt,” replied Qurant. “It will do them no good. Wherever they are going we’ll eventually destroy that system as well.”

Second Commander Anston was studying the tactical display which was constantly updating. “We are going to lose a sizable portion of our fleet in order to destroy this system. Our scans are indicating over five thousand defending warships plus a defensive grid around the planet. The shipyard in orbit of the planet is quite large and probably heavily armed.”

Qurant turned his eyes toward his second in command. “I’ve already considered all of the possible scenarios we will be facing in this system and have taken the necessary steps to ensure our victory. These Humans will die just like all the rest.”

Second Commander Anston returned to his post. It was not his place to question the admiral. That was the quickest way to be sent to one of the penal colonies.

-

“We have them on the long-range sensors,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “Twenty minutes before they drop out of hyperspace.”

“Take all ships and the defense grid to Condition Two,” ordered Race. “What about the shipyard and the two civilian stations?”

“Civilian stations have been evacuated,” replied Commander Haskins. “The shipyard has just enough personnel to operate the weapons and perform some damage control.”

“The government on Jewel is evacuating all major cities,” reported Lieutenant Burns.

More time passed and Race looked at the tactical display. The Eternals were nearly here. “Take us to Condition One and prepare for combat. Use of dark matter missiles is authorized. I want all ships firing in five ship groups. We need to take out as many of those Eternal battlecruisers as rapidly as we can.”

-

The activity in the Command Center became even more intense as the Eternal fleet neared. It was well into the system before the first ships began to drop out of hyperspace.

“They’re here!” reported Lieutenant Justin.

Race watched as the Eternal fleet dropped out of hyperspace and then began to form up in a massive pyramid formation with the apex pointed toward his fleet.

“Contact in fifteen minutes,” reported Commander Haskins. “All commands report ready for combat. Commander Jones says he needs another thirty minutes to get the last ships through the Accelerator Ring.”

“Inform Commander Jones we’ll get him that thirty minutes. Also be prepared to blow the ring on my command.” There was no way Race was going to allow the Eternals to capture the Accelerator Ring. That was one bit of Originator technology he definitely wanted to keep out of their hands.

The Eternals finished their formation and then began advancing toward the Originator fleet. Their ships looked ominous and ready for war. There was no doubt in Race’s mind this battle was going to be brutal with losses on both sides. “I want a full barrage of dark matter missiles from every tube in the fleet. Concentrate on the apex of the Eternals’ formation. I want it smashed.” Race leaned back in his command chair. There was nothing more he could do.

-

On board the large shipyard, Colonel Emily Trevor gazed at the tactical display and the inbound Eternal fleet. She felt a cold chill run over her as she saw how many ships they were up against. “How’s the energy shield?”

“Up and functioning at full power,” replied her second in command, Captain John Tucker. “I’ve diverted all the power I can to the shield since we’ve shut down most of the station. Weapons are online and antimatter missiles are ready to fire.”

Emily looked over at Captain Tucker. “Remember, focus our fire on just a few of the Eternal ships. That will give us a better possibility of bringing down their shields.”

Looking back up at the main viewscreen, she could see several passenger liners entering the swirling blue vortex of the Accelerator Ring. There was still a long line of ships waiting to leave with more shuttles still rising from the surface of Jewel toward the few remaining ships which needed to be loaded. She hoped those waiting ships made it through the vortex. “What’s the status of the planetary defense grid?”

“Fully operational,” replied Captain Tucker. “The Indomitable Class Battlestations have full load outs of antimatter missiles. Their energy shields are also fully activated.”

“Ground defenses?”

“Ready. All interceptor missile batteries are ready to fire and the Marines and regular army units have moved out of the cities and taken up defensive positions in the mountains. Both emergency command bunkers have been activated.”

“The senator and the planetary governor?”

“One in each bunker.”

Emily knew all that could be done had been done. Now they just had to wait for the Eternals and see what happened in the battle between the Eternal fleet and the Originator fleet.

“We have half a dozen strikecruisers that are moving into position around us as well as two battleships.”

This would greatly increase their offensive ability. Emily was relieved she had at least part of the fleet to aid the shipyard. “Make sure we coordinate our fire with theirs.”

Captain Tucker replied he would.

Emily let out a deep sigh as she looked around her Command Center. She had a good group of officers and everyone had volunteered to stay behind on the shipyard. She hoped they weren’t all making a mistake.

-

“Thirty seconds to optimum weapons range,” reported Lieutenant Justin.

“Standby to fire,” ordered Race, leaning forward in his command chair. “Let’s make this count.” He knew how important it was to get the first strike in. Fortunately, the dark matter missiles had a slightly better range than the antimatter missiles used by the Eternals. Race watched the tactical screen intently and knew it was time. “Fire!”

-

From the Originator fleet tens of thousands of dark matter missiles launched. The Eternal fleet upon detecting the launches responded with their defensive energy beam turrets and interceptor missiles. Several thousand missiles were intercepted and space between the two fleets became filled with small explosions. However, the missiles were equipped with highly effective subspace drives and due to their fantastic speed were difficult if not nearly impossible to intercept and destroy. They began arriving at the formation of Eternal ships and huge explosions began to hammer the energy shields. Space lit up as if a supernova had just formed. There were so many of the four hundred-megaton dark matter missiles detonating that energy shields began to fail. In a matter of just a few seconds hundreds of Eternal vessels were turned into plasma and drifting wreckage.

The Eternal fleet moved into weapons range and launched their own wave of missiles. The missiles were of the new and more powerful two hundred-megaton range. Over 840,000 missiles were launched toward the Originator fleet.

-

“Inbound missiles!” called out Lieutenant Justin, his face turning pale at the numbers. “There’s a hell of a lot of them. Over 800,000.”

“Defensive batteries and interceptor missiles launched,” reported Commander Haskins. “A lot are going to get through.”

“Second dark matter missile wave launched,” confirmed Zamdol.

In space, the two missile waves passed each other and then the Eternal missiles began detonating against the defensive screens of the Originator fleet.

“Detonation of Eternal missiles,” confirmed Zamdol. “Missiles are in the two hundred-megaton range.”

“Damn,” said Commander Haskins, looking concerned. “That’s not good. We’re going to lose a lot of ships.”

The WarHawk suddenly shook violently as several missiles struck her energy shield. Alarms started sounding and red lights began flaring up on the damage control console.

“We have moderate damage to the hull at junction twenty-two braces seven through fourteen,” reported the damage control officer. “We have eight compartments open to space. We’ve lost four defensive turrets and two gravitonic cannon batteries. Damage control crews are en route.”

The viewscreen was filled with glaring light from the exploding missiles. The screen dimmed slightly to take the brightness into account. Switching his gaze to the tactical display, Race saw hundreds of his ship icons flaring up and then disappearing as they were destroyed.

-

The Eternals had fired in coordination with other ships. Dozens of antimatter missiles were striking Originator vessels. Even the powerful triplex screens of the Originators could not withstand the tremendous explosive power of so many missiles detonating at once.

The center section of an Originator battlecruiser was struck by an Eternal missile. The ship vanished in a fiery explosion and when the explosion died away all that was left was a twisted mass of wreckage. Another Eternal missile slammed into the bow of a dreadnought, destroying nearly half of the vessel. The rest was quickly ripped apart by Eternal energy beams.

Hundreds of Eternal energy beams tore open another Originator battlecruiser as its shield failed from the missile bombardment. Compartment after compartment was opened to space as the crew rushed to try to stabilize the ship. It was all for nothing as explosions starting shaking the vessel and then more powerful ones began tearing the ship apart. In one final titanic blast the ship exploded, sending glowing debris flying across space.

-

Both fleets were now in energy weapons range and were firing at each other. Missiles were flying toward both fleets and vessels on both sides were dying. The battle was intense and brutal. Any damaged ship soon found itself targeted. If an energy shield failed the ship was destroyed almost instantly.

“We’re not going to be able to handle much more of this,” said Commander Haskins as he watched two more dreadnoughts die on the main viewscreen. “We’re losing too many ships too fast.”

Race turned toward Lieutenant Burns. “How much longer until the last civilian ship is though the Accelerator Ring?”

“Ten more minutes,” replied Burns.

“We’re not going to last ten more minutes,” stated Commander Haskins as the WarHawk shook from more antimatter warheads striking the ship’s energy screen. On the damage control console more red lights appeared.

“Admiral, the Accelerator Ring has shut down,” reported Zamdol, his face registering confusion. “The AIs at the ring report there is a fleet coming through.”

Race looked at the Accelerator Ring. There were no fleets scheduled to come through the ring.

The viewscreen instantly switched to show the Accelerator Ring, which was once more active. From the swirling blue vortex Originator battlecruisers and dreadnoughts began to appear.

“It’s your sister’s fleet,” reported Zamdol. “She has 320 dreadnoughts and 3,200 battlecruisers with her.”

Race breathed out a long sigh of relief. Massie was not to have left the Solar System but her arrival might just allow the rest of the civilian vessels to escape. “Have her fleet join ours. That should allow us to buy enough time for the rest of the civilians to get away.” He would have to have a long talk with his sister when this was over.

-

Admiral Qurant watched as more Originator vessels appeared out of the swirling vortex of the mysterious ring. Technicians on board his ship had established the ring was capable of accelerating ships to a tremendous speed in hyperspace, so fast that the sensors on the Eternal vessels were barely able to detect them before they were out of range.

“How many ships have we lost?” Qurant knew many of his battlecruisers had been destroyed and even more had suffered significant damage.

“Seven hundred and twelve destroyed and 1,242 have suffered damage,” replied Second Commander Anston.

“The Humans?”

“They have lost 1,876 vessels and at least two thousand have been damaged. The new Originator fleet is joining the other fleet.”

Admiral Qurant considered his options. He could still destroy the two Originator fleets and the defenses around the planet but the cost would be high in the number of ships he would lose.

“Contact Second Leader Abross. I need his fleet. Pull our fleet back until it’s out of weapons range.”

The communications officer immediately sent the message.

-

Race was surprised when the Eternal fleet suddenly pulled back out of weapons range.

“What’s going on?” asked Commander Haskins. “They still have the superior numbers even with your sister’s fleet added to ours.”

“I don’t know,” replied Race. However, we can use this time to work on repairs to our ships and it should allow the rest of the civilian ships to get away.”

“Hyperspace detection,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “I have a large number of ships inbound. Initial long-range scans indicate around twenty thousand Eternal battlecruisers.”

“Where did they come from?” asked Haskins with a stunned look on his face. “We can’t take on a fleet like that!”

-

Weeks earlier before the Eternal fleets left to attack the Human and Alton worlds.

First Leader Fehnral was meeting with Admiral Qurant and Second Leader Abross. “I want to ensure our victory over the Humans and the Altons. While I believe the fleets we have assigned to this mission are sufficient, I want a strong reserve force in case the Humans are more powerful than we believe.”

“How many more ships?” asked Second Leader Abross.

“Twenty thousand.”

Abross looked stunned as he tried to think of where the ships would have to come from.

“Take the ships from the galaxies nearest Originator space,” ordered Fehnral. “They can return once the Humans and Altons are destroyed.”

Abross narrowed his eyes and then replied. “That might put those galaxies at risk if the Originators launch an attack.”

“They won’t,” answered Fehnral. “When they hear we’re attacking the Human and Alton worlds I fully expect them to call an immediate halt to all of their offensive actions.”

Abross nodded. “Who should we send to command this fleet?”

Fehnral stared directly at Second Leader Abross. “I want you to command the fleet. I feel a member of the council should be involved in this attack to ensure its success.”

Abross drew in a deep breath. He had commanded fleets before though this would be the largest by far. “Very well. I accept command of the reserve fleet.”

This satisfied Fehnral. He was confident with the ships he now had committed to the attack, the Human and Alton worlds would fall.

-

The present.

Second Leader Abross studied the tactical display as his fleet dropped out of hyperspace just behind Admiral Qurant’s fleet. Qurant had sent him a report of the battle so far including his desire to capture the mysterious vortex ring active in the system. Abross agreed. Capturing the ring was probably more important than destroying the Human system.

“Have our fleet join up with Admiral Qurant’s,” Abross ordered. “We will then finish off the Originator fleet and then capture the vortex ring.” Abross had the ring up on the ship’s main viewscreen. He watched as Human vessels rapidly vanished into the swirling vortex. Sometimes Originator technology even surprised him.

-

Race had just finished talking to Massie. The odds against them were now astronomical and Massie had informed Race there were no other reinforcements on the way. She had taken a calculated risk in simply coming here.

“Admiral, I have the governor of Jewel on the comm. He’s recommending you retreat. He does not expect you to defend his world against a fleet like the one we’re now facing.”

Race looked over at Commander Haskins and then toward Zamdol. “What are our chances of victory?”

“Not good,” Zamdol replied. “I have calculated we only have a .002 percent chance of victory. The numbers are just not on our side.”

“What if we retreat to the defensive grid and add its firepower to ours?”

Zamdol hesitated for a moment and then replied. “It only improves the odds to .043 percent.”

“What about Rear Admiral Merlin’s fleet?”

Lieutenant Burns asked the governor a few more questions and then turned back toward Race. “Rear Admiral Merlin and his fleet have elected to stay. This is their world and they will stay and defend it. Hopefully they can destroy enough Eternal vessels to ensure in the end the Eternals can be defeated.”

“The last ship is through the ring,” reported Lieutenant Justin.

“Admiral,” said Burns. “The governor has now made it an order. You’re to retreat immediately and save your ships.”

“Eternal ships are advancing,” added Lieutenant Justin tensely. “They will be in engagement range in forty seconds.”

Race took a deep breath. If he left he was sentencing two billion Humans to death. However, if he stayed he would lose his fleet and his sister’s and the planet would still be destroyed. As much as it pained him to do it, he knew he had no other choice. “Withdraw. All ships are to enter hyperspace immediately. Massie’s fleet will head back to Earth and ours back to New Tellus. Detonate the Accelerator Ring.”

On the main viewscreen, a number of titanic explosions shook the ring, tearing it apart. Moments later the WarHawk and the rest of the Originator ships fled the system in the safety of hyperspace, leaving a doomed planet behind them.

-

Admiral Qurant watched in anger as the Originator fleet escaped into hyperspace and the mysterious vortex ring was destroyed. His nanite-enhanced mind knew what the Humans had done was strategically sound. To have remained would have seen their destruction and they still would not have been able to save the planet.

“We will advance on the planet and neutralize its defenses,” ordered Qurant. “When we’re in range we will launch a full barrage of antimatter missiles. This battle will be short. Once the defenses are destroyed we will launch our nukes against the planet.”

-

Colonel Emily Trevor watched as the Originator ships vanished into hyperspace and the Accelerator Ring was blown into millions of pieces. “I guess we’re on our own now.”

“We could have left,” Captain Tucker reminded Emily.

Emily shook her head. “No, our world is under attack. I have family in one of the underground bunkers. I couldn’t leave. What about you?”

“The same. My sister and her kids are in the governor’s bunker. I can’t leave them.”

“Eternal ships are inbound,” reported the sensor officer.

“All weapons are armed and ready to fire,” added the officer sitting in front of Tactical.

Emily looked up at the large tactical display. It was covered in red threat icons, more than she could count. “We’re going to die here.”

Captain Tucker nodded. “Let’s take some of them with us.”

“Engagement range,” called out the sensor officer.

“Fire missiles!” ordered Emily, clenching her fist. “I want all missiles fired as rapidly as possible. Empty our bunkers.”

“Missiles launched,” confirmed the tactical officer. “Reloading.”

“Eternals are launching!” warned the sensor officer.

Captain Tucker turned pale when he saw the number of inbound missiles aimed at the shipyard, the two civilian stations, the defensive fleet, and the defensive grid. “There are over two million missiles coming toward us!”

Emily face turned white. At least it would be over quickly. “Keep launching missiles!” She closed her eyes and said a prayer for her family. She had done her part now all she could do was wait to die.

-

Rear Admiral Merlin stared in horror at the inbound mass of missiles. Already the defensive grid, the Type Two Battlestations, the Indomitable Battlestations, and the ships of his fleet were using every weapon they had to try to destroy part of the horde of missiles approaching them. A large number of antimatter missiles had been set to explode in the heart of the Eternal missile swarm but it seemed to be having little effect. There were just too many.

On the main viewscreen, he watched as the shipyard and the ships protecting it suddenly vanished in a bright flash of light as several thousand two hundred-megaton antimatter missiles struck. When the light died down all that was left of the large structure and ships was some glowing debris and twisted pieces of metal. Moments later the two civilian stations met the same fate.

Admiral Merlin took a deep breath. He knew the missile barrage hurtling toward him would take out his fleet and all the defenses around Jewel. In hindsight, he probably should have saved his fleet and left with Admiral Tolsen.

The first missiles began to strike. The space above Jewel lit up like a thousand novas all exploding at once. Darkness turned into daylight as the blasts lit up the planet. The defending fleet died in seconds as well as most of the defensive grid. The Type Two Battlestations were literally vaporized in their orbits, leaving dissipating clouds of plasma where they once were. The Indomitable Battlestations lasted a little bit longer and managed to launch a considerable number of their missiles before their shields were overwhelmed and hundreds of antimatter missiles blew them apart. Only a few defensive satellites survived and those were rapidly eliminated by Eternal energy beams.

The Eternal fleet went into orbit and nuclear missiles began to fall. Cities, towns, dams, and power plants were all targeted. Flashes of light began appearing across the surface of Jewel. The oceans burned from the intense heat of the blasts. All across the planet mushroom clouds rose up from the super heated air. Hurricane force winds from the blasts leveled everything: trees, farms, and infrastructure. The sky grew darker until it seemed like twilight and then continued to darken. The radiation level continued to rise to the point any animal or Human on the surface who hadn’t been killed from the blasts would soon die from radiation poisoning. In the span of a few minutes over two billion people died.

-

Admiral Qurant stood in the Command Center of his flagship admiring the work of his fleet. Another Human world had been destroyed. Already battlecruisers were leaving the fleet to search the system for any small colonies or mining facilities that might still exist. If they did, they too would be destroyed.

“Where to now?” asked Second Commander Anston.

Qurant turned toward his second in command. “I must consult Second Leader Abross. He may want to destroy the Humans’ homeworld next.”

Qurant would prefer to destroy the other worlds of the Humans first. Each one he destroyed further weakened what would be available to defend their main world. However, he was not on the Council of Eternals, Abross was. It would be his decision to make.

-

A few light years away the other part of the Eternal fleet had just finished destroying another Human world. The planet of Garrison with a population of 1.4 billion people had ceased to exist. Losses had been higher than expected but the Originator fleet sent to defend the planet had been wiped out. It was now time to go on to the next target. Just before the fleet was to enter hyperspace a message arrived from Second Leader Abross. He had chosen the next target. It would be the Humans’ homeworld.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Councilor Barnes, Councilor Grayseth, Admiral Jackson, Councilor Tureen, and Councilor Trallis were all in Jackson’s office reviewing the current situation in the Human Federation of Worlds and Alton space. So far, the news was very grim.

“Four billion dead,” said Councilor Barnes in disbelief.

“It’s even worse in Alton space,” said Councilor Tureen. “Many of our worlds have been inhabited for over ten thousand years. The latest reports I’ve received indicate over twelve billion have been killed.”

“How many more ships do we have at the Dyson sphere?” asked Councilor Barnes. “I recommend we immediately send all of them to the Human Federation of Worlds as well as to the Altons.”

Admiral Jackson leaned back and called up some information on the computer screen on his desk. “We’ve sent all the crewed dreadnoughts we had at the Dyson sphere to reinforce Admiral Tolsen and Rear Admiral Tolsen. We’ve sent even more to Admiral Bachal.”

Councilor Tureen shifted his gaze to Admiral Jackson. He had been studying a report on the losses in Alton space. “How many battlecruisers are still at the Dyson sphere?”

“Forty-six thousand,” answered Jackson. “However, we need at least ten thousand to ensure the security of the Dyson sphere from attack.”

“That still leaves thirty-six thousand said Councilor Barnes. “I propose we send sixteen thousand to Admiral Bachal. That will give him superior numbers over the Eternal fleet he’s now facing. The remaining twenty thousand should be sent to reinforce Admiral Tolsen and Rear Admiral Tolsen.”

Councilor Trallis looked at the other councilors with a sad look on his face. “I fear we greatly underestimated the number of ships the Eternals would commit while trying to destroy the Human Federation of Worlds and the Altons. As a result many people have died. I agree; send the fleets from the Shrieel.”

Admiral Jackson nodded. “We’re facing more than double the number of ships we originally estimated the Eternals would commit. We must never underestimate them again.”

“Where did these ships come from?” asked Councilor Barnes. “All indications are they’re still invading more galaxies. Commander Zafron reports in the galaxies he’s wrested from the Eternals there is still heavy fighting going on.”

Admiral Jackson looked thoughtful. “They may have sent some of the ships from galaxies they felt they already had a firm control over, particularly those closest to us.”

“Then we should attack!” rumbled Grayseth in his deep and booming voice. “We have 200,000 ships waiting to attack Eternal space. Now might be the time to do it.”

Jackson took a deep breath. Grayseth was right. There might not be a better time to attack the Eternals than now. “Very well. If we’re all in agreement I’ll send the orders to begin the attack. It will be a coordinated attack against the ten Eternal controlled galaxies nearest us.”

Every one voiced their agreement. If their attacks succeeded, they had the opportunity to free trillions of sentient beings from the Eternals. It was one of the reasons more ships hadn’t been committed to defending the Federation and the Altons.

-

Admiral Race Tolsen was back at New Tellus. The WarHawk was currently docked in one of the repair bays at New Tellus Station having the holes in her hull repaired as well as the destroyed weapon turrets.

“We couldn’t save them,” uttered Race, picturing in his mind the Eternals dropping nukes on Jewel. Men, women, and children were slaughtered in the attack. Nowhere on the planet would have been safe.

“Nearly three hundred million people in total escaped through the Accelerator Ring,” pointed out Admiral Crown. “While the world may have died many of its people live on. You saved several hundred thousand civilians in the extra time you bought for the final ships to escape.”

Race stood up and walked over to one of the walls in Admiral Crown’s office. It was covered with large paintings of scenes from nearly every world in the Federation. “They brought in a reinforcing fleet of twenty thousand ships. Once that happened any hope we had of holding the system vanished.”

“Is there any possibility there are more of them out there that we don’t know about?”

Race looked at Admiral Crown. That was exactly what Race had been worrying about. “There’s no way to know until they show up unless one of our scout units find them.”

“I have over two hundred light cruisers searching all the surrounding systems. So far they’ve found nothing.”

“Let’s hope it stays that way.”

Admiral Crown stepped over by Race. He gestured to a picture of a sunset on Mars. “That’s one of my favorite pictures. I’m told that in a few more years Mars will have an atmosphere similar to Earth’s. Already people can live out on the surface in some regions.”

Race turned back around. “We can’t let the Eternals destroy any more of our worlds. I’m going to pull the Originator fleet we have sitting outside the system in to join mine. Next time I face the Eternals I won’t be retreating.”

“So we’re going to forget about setting a trap?”

“We have no choice. The Eternals have too many ships. If we allow them to get too close to New Tellus, they can launch enough missiles to destroy all of our defenses. We have nothing that can stop two million missiles all coming at us at once and that’s only the first wave. There will be more after that. Our only chance is to reduce the size of the Eternal fleet so the defenses can handle the incoming missiles.”

Admiral Crown slowly nodded his agreement. “I think you’re right. Our latest reports from our light cruisers indicate the Eternal fleets are still in the Jewel System. We believe they’re repairing their battle damage before they move on to their next target.”

Race sat back down as did Admiral Crown. “They know we’re aware of their numbers now. They may decide to attack either New Tellus or the Solar System next while their forces are still intact. We took out nearly a thousand of their ships in the battle over Jewel. They won’t want to continue to sustain such losses or even heavier losses while taking out more of our systems.”

“Sound reasoning,” said Admiral Crown. “But will the Eternals see it that way?”

Race forced a smile. “You forget, Admiral. The Eternals are too logical at times, particularly with their nanite-enhanced minds. Attacking the primary targets is the most logical strategy for them now.”

“Then we’d better get ready,” replied Admiral Crown. “I’ll talk to the governor and Senator Brown and inform them we can expect an Eternal attack at any time. I will also speak to General Wilcox. If the Eternals are coming here we’ll be ready for them.”

Race stood up. “I better get back to the WarHawk and see how the repairs are coming. I don’t want my flagship to be in the repair dock when the Eternals show up.”

Admiral Brown stood up and extended his hand. “Good luck, Admiral.”

“Same to you,” replied Race, shaking the admiral’s hand.

-

Twenty minutes later Race was in the massive repair dock where the WarHawk was undergoing repairs. Repairs were being done under the watchful supervision of Originator AIs and some of the department heads from the warship. It was necessary as the workers in the repair bay were not accustomed to dealing with Originator ships and technology. Other fleet ships occupied nearly all the repair bays on every shipyard at New Tellus.

He watched as spider work robots under AI control welded new armor plating on the ship while others worked at replacing the weapon turrets that had been destroyed. The robots were scampering all over the WarHawk trying to get the repairs completed as soon as possible. The work would continue nonstop until the flagship was ready to leave the dock.

“We’re working as hard as we can, Admiral,” said one of the Originator AIs, who had noticed Race watching the work. “Repairs should be completed in fourteen hours and seventeen minutes.”

“That’s fast,” replied Race, looking over at the AI.

“We’re going to need every available warship against the Eternals, particularly the WarHawk.”

Race watched as one of the main cargo hatches swung open and a line of AIs working antigravity sleds started bringing munitions to the ship. A number of the sleds contained dark matter missiles. A supply had been placed on board all of the shipyards at New Tellus.

“All munitions transfers will be completed in another two hours. We have supply shuttles taking munitions to the other ships of the fleet.”

“All of you Originator AIs do a fantastic job,” replied Race impressed. “We couldn’t be fighting this war without you.”

“It is our privilege to serve. Your race, the Altons, the Carethians, and the Originators treat us as equals. We feel we have as much to lose as anyone else in this war.”

Race turned toward the AI. “Still, many AIs are being killed in the battles. Most of our ships are crewed by AIs.”

“True, but you must remember we have our engrams recorded periodically so if we die we can be recreated in a new AI body. I have already done so several times during my long life.”

With curiosity Race asked his next question. “How long have you been alive?”

“Twelve thousand, two hundred and forty-seven years. There are other AIs whose lifespans go back much farther.”

Race knew Kazak was one of those. He was several million years old though he had spent much of that time in stasis. “The lifespans of my own race have been increased considerably. First by contact with the Altons and now with the availability of Originator medical science. If none of that had occurred I would have retired many years ago.”

“It’s a good thing you did not as we need your leadership against the Eternals.”

Race turned back to watch the work on his ship. He could see it was progressing very fast. He just hoped the Eternals gave them time to finish the repair work before they arrived at New Tellus. Race was fairly certain New Tellus or the Solar System would be the next target.

-

Reaching the Command Center of the WarHawk Race saw most of the command crew was present. They were checking their consoles and keeping track of the repairs. On the damage control board, many of the red lights had already returned to green.

“Rear Admiral Trace Collins has brought the Originator fleet from the Oort Cloud to New Tellus,” reported Commander Haskins. “I had him place his fleet into orbit at forty thousand kilometers so as not to create a traffic jam around the planet.”

“Admiral,” said Lieutenant Tasha Burns. “We have just received a communication from the Communications and Transport Hub. “They’ve ordered more of the battlecruisers within the Dyson sphere in Shari space to be committed. We’re receiving ten thousand battlecruisers, Rear Admiral Tolsen is receiving ten thousand and Admiral Bachal is receiving sixteen thousand.”

Race was surprised. That would be most of the active ships at the Dyson sphere. He was amazed the Originator Council had decided to commit so many vessels. “How soon before they arrive?”

“Four to six hours from now,” replied Burns. “A little longer for those assigned to Admiral Bachal.”

Race sat down in his command chair. The new battlecruisers along with his ships should place his fleet on a more even par with the Eternals. “Contact Admiral Crown and General Wilcox; we need to plan a new strategy to deal with the coming attack.”

-

A few minutes later Race had both of the New Tellus commanding officers on the comm. “We are receiving more battlecruisers from the Dyson sphere, enough for me to meet the Eternals away from New Tellus. Your job in the coming battle is to keep the planet safe. Admiral Crown, I want you to use your fleet to protect the shipyards. General Wilcox, you’re going to be responsible for keeping missiles away from New Tellus and there are bound to be some considering how many will be launched.”

-

For the next hour the three discussed in detail how they were going to defend the system. When they were finally finished they felt they were as ready as they were going to be. When the discussion was over Race leaned back in his command chair. He knew Massie would be making some of the same decisions he was. He considered contacting her but her job was to defend the Solar System and he was not going to interfere. He trusted her to make the right decisions.

-

Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen took a deep breath as the Accelerator
Ring activated and more battlecruisers began pouring through the swirling blue vortex. This pleased her immensely as she had two inhabited worlds to protect.

“We’re receiving ten thousand more battlecruisers,” reported Commander Macleod.

“How many dreadnoughts?” On the viewscreen, Massie had only seen a few come through the Accelerator Ring so far.

“Ten,” answered Macleod. “All the other crewed dreadnoughts have been committed. Rear Admiral Cross is in command of the fleet.”

Massie nodded. Rear Admiral Cross was a talented admiral with considerable battle experience. That would give her a backup in the chain of command in case something happened to the Hera.

Massie narrowed her eyes. She needed an admiral to help defend Mars and take command of some of the battlecruisers. Her only reasonable choice was Admiral Johnston who was in charge of the Mars defensive fleet as well as the defenses for the outer planets, asteroids and moons. Currently he had twelve hundred battleships and sixteen hundred strikecruisers under his command.

“We’ll send four thousand battlecruisers to reinforce Admiral Johnston,” said Massie. “We need to find several military AIs who can work with the admiral and at least one needs to be in the Command Center to help coordinate everything.”

“I would recommend two,” suggested Commander Macleod. “That’s a large fleet we’re asking a single military AI to direct. Two would work better.”

Massie nodded. “Make it so. I want Admiral Johnston to become familiar with the ships under his command immediately. He will also have to adjust to having military AIs in his Command Center.”

“May I suggest we take a commanding officer from one of our dreadnoughts and assign him as a liaison to Admiral Johnston? Our dreadnought commanders are all familiar with the military AIs and how they operate in battle.”

“That’s an excellent idea,” said Massie. Having military AIs on Johnston’s flagship would expedite commands and assure the Originator ships coordinated with the Solar System vessels. “Do you have any suggestions?”

“Commander Joan Garret of the Infinity. She’s had considerable command experience and is up for promotion to flag rank.”

“Let’s do it. I’ll contact Commander Garret and inform her of her new duties.”

Massie shifted her eyes to the main viewscreen focused on Earth. The blue-white planet was home to humanity. From it people had been taken to form the Original Human Federation of Worlds to oppose the AIs. After the AIs and the Hocklyns had destroyed the first Federation, the survivors had fled to Ceres and New Tellus. Now, once again the Federation was in danger. Massie was determined not to allow the Federation to fall.

Massie’s eyes moved to study the twelve massive battlestations in orbit around Earth. Each was three thousand meters in diameter and heavily armed. In addition, four forty-kilometer battlestations were in orbit. Earth also had the strongest defense grid in the Federation with nearly twelve thousand particle beam satellites in high orbit. There were also three large shipyards and all were heavily armed and protected by particle beam satellites and Type Two Battlestations. There were also twenty-three Indomitable Class Battlestations defending the shipyards and Earth.

The largest shipyard in the Solar System was the truly massive one in orbit around the Moon. Only the primary shipyard in the New Tellus System was bigger. The shipyard was heavily armed and defended by particle beam satellites, Type Two Battlestations, and two Indomitable Class Battlestations. It would act as the secondary command facility in case something happened to Fleet Admiral Nagumo.

Massie pressed several icons on the computer screen on her command console. Instantly the view on the primary screen switched to show the entire Solar System. All mining colony inhabitants had been evacuated to Ceres. Very few of the workers and their families had chosen to go through the Accelerator Ring. There were two of them in the Solar System: One in orbit around the Earth and the second around Mars.”

“What’s the current status of the evacuation?”

“Seven hundred and twenty million people have gone through,” replied Commander Macleod. “Currently 120,000 people per hour are going through the two rings.”

Massie drew in a deep breath. There were nearly nine billion people in the Solar System. Massie suspected at least eight billion would still be here when the Eternals attacked.

“I want to see a holographic view of the system showing the planets, asteroids, moons, the Oort Cloud, and the location of all ships.”

Instantly a large holographic tactical display appeared near Massie. It was full of thousands of green icons. “Remove all civilian shipping.” The view changed until it only showed the warships as green icons. Massie spent several minutes examining the disposition of the ships in her fleet as well as those Fleet Admiral Nagumo was responsible for. Large clusters of ships were gathered around Mars, Earth, and the Moon. There were small squadrons of vessels scattered throughout the system on patrol duty. Most were light cruisers, fighters, and bombers. The patrols went all the way out to the very edge of the Oort Cloud.

Massie leaned back, satisfied they had done everything they could to get ready for the coming attack. The latest reports indicated the Eternals were still in the Epsilon Indi System conducting repairs. “When the Eternals arrive we will form up into a cylindrical formation with the dreadnoughts in the center. That will ensure our most powerful ships will survive the longest. We’ll take the formation into the heart of the Eternal formation and try to destroy as many of their ships as possible. Fleet Admiral Nagumo will hold his fleet back to support the Earth and the Moon. If we can destroy enough Eternal ships then Nagumo and the defenses should have a decent chance of destroying the rest of the Eternal fleet.”

“Admiral,” called out Captain Jennifer Smith from Communications. “We’re receiving reports from several of the light cruisers. They’re detecting sensor anomalies in and around the Oort Cloud.”

“Put it on the main tactical display.”

On the display, four areas of interest began blinking an ominous red. “Send some of our battlecruisers out to investigate. Send ten battlecruisers to each anomaly site. Those may be stealth Eternal battlecruisers scanning the system as a prelude to an attack.” If they were this would not surprise Massie. If she were planning a major attack, she would want the latest data on the system defenses.

Hurriedly Commander Macleod dispatched four squadrons of battlecruisers to the target areas.

Massie watched as the battlecruisers made the transition into hyperspace and vanished from the viewscreens. It would only take them a few minutes to reach their targets.

“Do you think the Eternals are getting ready to attack?” asked Jennifer.

Massie shook her head. “No, their fleet is still at Jewel. I suspect they’re trying to get some decent scans of our defenses and fleet deployments.”

“It is a sound strategy,” stated Matol, an Originator military AI in charge of Tactical. “It might also be an indication the attack will occur soon.”

“You’re right.” Massie looked over at Jennifer. “Contact President Treadway and inform her we believe the Eternal attack is imminent and all evacuations need to be completed in the next twelve to twenty-four hours.” The Hera had a direct comm link to the president so she could be kept informed of the latest developments.

Massie’s eyes returned to the tactical hologram which was still showing the deployment of the warships in the system. She was wondering what she could do to make the battle more even. No matter what she came up with they were still going to lose a lot of ships and people.

-

Several minutes passed and the first squadron of battlecruisers dropped out of hyperspace near the closest anomaly. Almost instantly the anomaly switched from being unidentified to that of an Eternal battlecruiser. The Originator ships quickly opened fire, scoring several telling strikes to the enemy vessel before its energy shield snapped into place. The Eternal battlecruiser began returning fire as it turned and fled into hyperspace.

Almost the same set of circumstances occurred at the other three locations of anomalies. All were Eternal battlecruisers and all fled as soon as they realized they had been detected.

-

“They’re gone,” reported Lieutenant Jacob Reynolds from his sensor console.

“They know we detected them,” commented Commander Macleod.

Massie nodded. “I suspect as soon as they get back to the Eternal fleet and make their report the Eternals will be coming here. I want all ships to go to Condition Four. We’ll stay there until we hear the Eternal fleet has left Jewel. Once that happens we’ll place the entire system at Condition Three.”

Commander Macleod quickly passed on the orders.

Massie looked around the Command Center. “I would suggest everyone get a good meal and some sleep. We’re probably going to have a long day tomorrow.”

-

After leaving the Command Center, Massie made her way to the Officer’s Mess nearby. She sat down and one of the servers came over, bringing Massie a glass of iced tea. She was tempted to order something stronger but she needed to keep her wits about her. After a few minutes the server returned with a ham sandwich and some chips. This would do for now. In the morning she would have a good breakfast and then head to the Command Center. As she ate she wondered what her parents were doing on New Tellus. She doubted if they had evacuated. She had never managed to get to New Tellus to visit them. Massie swore to herself if she survived the coming battle she would go and spend at least a week with her parents. She would also see if she could talk Race into doing the same. Massie deeply regretted not visiting her parents, particularly since there was a chance she might not ever see them again.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Admiral Qurant was ready to strike at the Humans once again. Under Second Leader Abross’ command he had gathered the forces assigned to destroy the Humans. He had 44,827 warships to bring the Human species to its knees and destroy it. The fleet would be divided into two separate forces with one going to destroy the Humans’ homeworld and the other to what appeared to be their major fleet and repair base. Once both of those were annihilated, the fleets would recombine and destroy the remaining Human worlds one by one.

“Reports from the stealth battlecruisers are in,” reported Second Commandeer Anston. “Both systems are heavily defended. Our losses will be severe but we should prevail.”

“How severe?” Qurant did not want to lose a major portion of his fleet.

“Sixty-eight percent losses with the rest of our ships suffering some damage.”

Qurant’s eyes widened. He hadn’t been expecting this. It might be necessary to modify his plans. He would contact Second Leader Abross and discuss it with him.

“We could summon more warships from the Empire,” suggested Second Commander Anston.

Qurant shook his head. “We don’t have the time. If we destroy the Humans’ homeworld, I suspect all resistance will collapse. Make the fleets ready to get underway. I will speak to Second Leader Abross. I have a plan which will guarantee our victory.”

-

Rear Admiral Massie Tolsen had combined her fleet with the reinforcements that had come through the Accelerator Ring. The fleet was currently in the form of a massive cylinder with the battlecruisers on the outside and the dreadnoughts in the center. Massie knew this was one of Race’s favorite formations when he was outnumbered. There were 12,200 battlecruisers in the formation and 320 dreadnoughts. She wished there were more dreadnoughts but they were running short of crewed vessels.

“We have several confirmed reports the Eternals have left Jewel,” reported Commander Macleod.

“They will be here in six point four hours,” added Falolt, the female AI at the helm.

 “I foresee a problem,” said Matol. “We have two planets to defend plus Earth’s moon. We must assume the Eternals will strike at us with a fleet of over twenty thousand ships.”

“But if we combine our fleets it will leave one of the worlds open to attack,” protested Massie. “We won’t know where they’re going until they get here.”

“It is a dilemma,” admitted Matol.

Massie stood up and walked over to the holographic tactical display. “Did they leave as one fleet or several fleets?”

“Two,” replied Commander Macleod.

“Then they must be coming for the Solar System and New Tellus at the same time. Inform Fleet Admiral Nagumo and take all commands to Condition Three. Jennifer, contact my brother and inform him the Eternals have left Jewel in two fleet formations. We believe one is headed for New Tellus and the other is coming here.”

The messages were quickly sent. Massie spent several more moments gazing at the holographic tactical display then she made a decision, one she hoped was the right one. “I want to move the fleet out past the Moon. We’re going to need more maneuvering room when the Eternals get here. Contact Admiral Johnston and confirm the Accelerator Ring near Mars is ready for self-destruction. I want all traffic going through the ring to come to a stop in five hours.”

Massie returned to her command chair deep in thought. Strategies were running through her mind as she tried to figure out how to fight the coming battle. She was feeling nervous as she was defending humanity’s home planet. It was the one world which must not fall to the Eternals. She sat in her chair drumming her fingers against the armrests, oblivious to what was going on around her. In a few hours she would be fighting the greatest battle of her life.

-

Race was listening to his communications officer relay Massie’s latest message. He had a difficult decision to make. Currently he had twenty-one thousand battlecruisers under his command as well as nearly five hundred dreadnoughts. He was confident he could hold New Tellus with that fleet but what about the Solar System and Earth? Massie’s fleet was smaller and she had two inhabited planets to defend. The Solar System had nearly 8 billion people still on Earth and Mars. New Tellus only had 66 million. Taking a deep breath, he knew what his decision needed to be.

“Lieutenant Burns, I need to speak with Admiral Crown and General Wilcox immediately.” It was time to apprise them of what he had decided.

-

Massie had left and eaten a quick snack before the Eternals arrived. She had just returned to the Command Center when the Eternal fleet was detected.

“Take all commands to Condition Two. We’ll go to Condition One as soon as the Eternals begin to drop out of hyperspace.”

Soon after, confirmation messages came flooding in from various commands including from Fleet Admiral Nagumo.

“How many ships?” Massie asked as she sat down in her command chair. The holographic tactical display was still on and showing the inbound Eternal fleet. At the moment the Eternals ships were so close together they were showing as one large red blob.

“It will be a few minutes yet before we can get an accurate count,” replied Lieutenant Reynolds. “Our sensors are also having trouble penetrating the Eternal fleet formation. They may be trying to jam our sensors.”

Commander Macleod looked over at Massie. “Why would they be doing that? They’re bound to know we’ve been watching them and are aware of their fleet numbers.”

“Lieutenant Reynolds, keep a sharp eye on your sensors. I want to know the exact makeup of that fleet as soon as possible.”

Massie sat staring at the holographic tactical display. All patrol ships were pulling back to either Earth or Mars. The outer region of the Solar System was rapidly becoming void of ships. She had a suspicion the Eternals were up to something but she didn’t know what it could be.

“Have our sensors detected any other ships or fleets inbound toward the Solar System?”

“No, Admiral,” replied Lieutenant Reynolds. “All we have on our long-range sensors is the single Eternal fleet. We should have numbers in another few minutes.”

Massie took in a deep breath. There was nothing she could do but wait.

-

Several minutes passed and the Eternal fleet was about to enter the Solar System. Lieutenant Reynolds finally managed to get a good reading of the fleet with his sensors. “I don’t understand. This can’t be right.”

“What is it, Lieutenant?” Massie could see the startled look in the lieutenant’s eyes.

“I’m only detecting eight thousand Eternal battlecruisers. Shouldn’t there be more if we’re the primary target?”

“Damn!” uttered Massie, realizing the Eternals had played a trick on them. The Solar System wasn’t the primary target, it had to be New Tellus. “Jennifer, get a warning off to New Tellus telling them we believe they’re the primary target. We only have eight thousand Eternal battlecruisers here.”

Massie was worried. That meant that over thirty-seven thousand Eternal battlecruisers were headed toward New Tellus and her brother. With eight thousand Eternal warships in the Solar System, she could not rush off to his aid. The Eternals had played a very good hand. They had pinned her ships down in the Solar System, cutting off New Tellus from reinforcements, while attacking the system with a superior fleet. She had no idea how this was going to turn out. All of their battle plans had just been thrown out the window.

“Eternal fleet is exiting hyperspace just past the orbit of Mars,” reported Commander Macleod. “What do you want to do, Admiral?”

“Contact Admiral Johnston and have him hold his fleet in position around Mars. We’ll let the Eternals make the first move.”

Lieutenant Reynolds continued to scan the enemy fleet. “They’re moving slowly toward Mars. Two hours before they’re in engagement range.”

“A clever tactic,” commented Matol. “If we enter hyperspace to attack them, they could then enter hyperspace and attack Earth. If we maintain our current position they will doubtlessly attack Mars. They also prevent us from going to reinforce Admiral Tolsen as that would leave Earth open to attack.”

Massie looked back at the holographic tactical display. For the time being all she could do was maintain her position near the Moon.

-

Second Leader Abross was satisfied Admiral Qurant’s plan was working. His fleet would hold the Originator ships here in this system while Admiral Qurant and the main fleet attacked the other target system. Qurant had decided the other system was the bigger threat because it seemed to hold the primary military and fleet bases for the Humans. By destroying that system, it would eliminate the possibility of any reinforcements being sent to defend the home system. When Qurant was finished with his mission, he would come here with his surviving ships joining up with Second Leader Abross. They would then eliminate the two inhabited worlds in this system. It was a sound and logical plan and showed the greatest measure of success.

-

Race had just been informed the Eternal fleet had appeared in the Solar System. Currently he had several Originator battlecruisers at the extreme edges of the system using their long-range sensors to locate the Eternal fleet he was certain was headed for New Tellus. Race knew Massie was probably pacing back and forth in her Command Center feeling trapped by the Eternals. He had already informed Admiral Crown and General Wilcox of his plan to take his fleet through the Accelerator Ring to reinforce Earth and Mars. That plan had fallen apart as soon as he received Massie’s message about the size of the Eternal fleet which had appeared in the Solar System.

“It is a good strategy,” commented Zamdol. “Even with the reinforcements we’ve received, we’ll still be outnumbered by nearly two to one.” Race had decided to keep Zamdol on the WarHawk and had sent another military AI to help Admiral Crown.

“That’s better than what we faced at Jewel,” replied Race. “We also have four of the forty-kilometer battlestations in this system. If we can substantially reduce the size of the Eternal fleet the defenses around New Tellus and Admiral Crown’s fleet units should be able to hold the Eternals at bay.”

“We have a hyperspace track,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “At the far end of our hyperspace sensor range. It’s still too far out to determine individual ships but the track is quite large.”

“How long until it gets here?”

“Thirty-two minutes.”

“As soon as the Eternal fleet drops out of hyperspace we will move to engage. Have all commands go to Condition Three. Inform Admiral Crown and General Wilcox we have detected an inbound fleet and we’re pretty certain it’s the Eternals.”

The fleet was formed up into a massive cylinder with twenty-one thousand battlecruisers on the perimeter in five rings and over eight hundred dreadnoughts in the center. This was the largest fleet formation Race had ever commanded. He just wondered how many ships if any would be left after this battle.

-

A few more minutes passed and Lieutenant Justin turned to face the admiral. “The Eternals are attempting to jam our sensors but we have a preliminary estimate on their numbers. We’re looking at somewhere between thirty-five thousand and forty thousand Eternal battlecruisers.”

“Damn, that’s a lot of ships!” muttered Commander Haskins. “Can we stop them from reaching New Tellus?”

“Good question,” replied Race. “We’re going to try.” Race wished his parents had left New Tellus. He had spoken to them briefly nearly every day since he had arrived in the New Tellus System. They were being stubborn and refusing to leave. They had informed Race New Tellus was their home and they had no plans of leaving.

Time seemed to pass slowly until the red blob on the large tactical screen gradually began to show individual ships. They now knew there were nearly thirty-eight thousand Eternal vessels barreling down on the New Tellus System.

“They should be dropping out of hyperspace in twelve more minutes,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “From their course and speed I look for them to exit hyperspace about 220,000 kilometers from New Tellus.”

Race felt the growing tension in the Command Center. “All commands are to go to Condition One. Combat is imminent. The use of dark matter weapons is authorized. Inform Rear Admiral Collins if something happens to the WarHawk he is to assume command of the fleet. Rear Admiral Cowel will be next in the chain of command.”

-

It wasn’t long before the Eternal fleet began dropping out of hyperspace. Hundreds and then thousands of Eternal battlecruisers began appearing and started forming up into a massive wall formation of twenty long lines with five hundred ships in each line. Behind that wall of ships were two more walls containing ten thousand warships with a reserve of 7,827 ships following close behind.

“They like those wall formations,” said Commander Haskins, his eyes focused on the tactical display.

“It’s quite effective,” said Zamdol. “It allows ships in the following lines to move up and take the place of any damaged or destroyed Eternal vessel while allowing them considerable firepower to take on their opponents.”

Race understood full well why the Eternals favored this formation. It was highly intimidating which was its primary purpose. “We’ll see how that formation holds up to ours.” Race intended to take his cylinder formation of ships right into the heart of the Eternals’ wall.

Race took a deep breath. “Guess there’s no point in delaying this. Let’s move the fleet toward the Eternals.” Race pressed an icon on his computer screen which allowed him to address all the ships in his fleet. “Very shortly we will be engaging the Eternals. They outnumber us in ships but we vastly outnumber them in our determination to defend our worlds. We will advance into the heart of the Eternal formation. They will learn they should never have come to the Federation. We shall destroy their fleet and teach these supposedly superior beings a lesson they will never forget.”

Leaning back in his command chair, Race watched the main viewscreen as his fleet turned slightly until the front of the cylinder was aimed directly at the oncoming Eternals. “Let’s meet them halfway.”

-

In space, the two fleets rapidly approached one another. Neither slowed or showed any signs of being afraid of the other. This would be a fight to the death. For the Eternals, if they won they would destroy the Human species. If the Humans won their surviving worlds would be safe from future Eternal attacks.

-

Admiral Qurant’s eyes were focused intently on the tactical display. The Humans had more ships than he had expected.

“There are nearly twenty-two thousand Originator ships in that formation,” Second Commander Anston informed Qurant. “We’re going to sustain considerable losses when we engage them.”

“A cylindrical formation,” said Qurant. “It could be a problem as it makes the ships in the center more difficult to destroy. “How many of their dreadnoughts are there?”

“Eight hundred and twelve,” answered the sensor officer.

Second Commander Anston was studying the tactical display. “Their dark matter missiles out-range our antimatter ones. They’ll have nearly an eight second advantage when they begin launching.”

“Prepare our defensive turrets and interceptor missiles. We need to destroy as many of their missiles short of our fleet as possible.” That was something the council needed to address. They had to increase the range of their antimatter missiles to counter the superior range of the Originator missiles.

Qurant shifted his eyes to the main viewscreen. It had been his suggestion to attack this system instead of the Human homeworld. He had felt if this system could be destroyed, it would be demoralizing to the Humans, making their homeworld easier to annihilate. It would also eliminate any possible reinforcements that could be sent to the Humans’ primary system. “Launch missiles as soon as we’re in range. Increase fleet speed by 20 percent. That will decrease the amount of time the Humans have to launch before we’re in range.”

-

Race waited tensely as the two fleets closed. In only a few more moments they would be in weapons range. “Stand by to launch missiles.”

“Ready,” replied Zamdol. “We should get two waves of missiles launched before any Eternal missiles reach us.”

“When they do, we’re going to lose a lot of ships,” warned Commander Haskins. “We’ll have over one million missiles coming toward us.”

“Our own missiles in the first wave will number nearly 600,000,” reported Zamdol. “We should get a second wave off before the Eternals’ missile strike reaches us.”

“Missile range!” called out Lieutenant Justin.

“Launch!” ordered Race, leaning forward in his command chair. He could feel his pulse racing. There was so much at stake in this battle. The future of the Human race might very well depend on its outcome.

-

From the battlecruisers and dreadnoughts in the fleet subspace missiles began exiting the missile tubes. Missile after missile was launched until all tubes were empty. Then they were reloaded and a second wave of missiles began to launch.

-

“Eternal missile launch detected,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “Preliminary count is 1,515,000. Impact in four seconds.”

On the primary viewscreen, thousands of small explosions littered space between the two fleets as some missiles were intercepted. Then a massive wave of explosions rolled across the front of the Eternal formation as four hundred-megaton dark matter missiles smashed into the energy shields of the Eternals.

“Damn!” said Commander Haskins, staring at the viewscreen in awe. “You can see Eternal ships being blown apart.”

“Inbound missiles!” called out Lieutenant Justin. “Hold on!”

The WarHawk shook violently and several red lights appeared on the damage control console. The main viewscreen switched to show the ships in the cylinder which was lit up as if it was on fire. Most of the impacts were on the outer rings of the cylinder. Battlecruisers were being torn apart from the sheer number of missiles strikes overloading energy screens and then striking ship hulls and exploding like miniature novas. There were four rings of battlecruisers in the cylinder. Most of the missile strikes were on the outer ring but a few were penetrating all the way to the dreadnoughts.

-

Admiral Qurant watched as the missile strike from the Originator ships slammed into his fleet formation. The forward section of his fleet looked as if it were burning. Qurant could see Eternal battlecruisers dropping out of the formation from heavy damage and still others, which were being turned into glowing wrecks of metal and plasma. Eternal ships were dying at a faster rate than he had ever experienced.

“What’s the Human fleet doing?” he asked, gripping the armrests on his command chair. His ship was in the rearmost section of the fleet and no enemy missiles were penetrating this deep.

“Still on course,” replied Second Commander Anston. “They’re reforming their formation from ships in the inner rings and condensing it to take their losses into account.”

Admiral Qurant stood up, his eyes narrowing sharply. “They’re going to try to penetrate our fleet formation. If they do I want them englobed.”

Qurant was amazed at the sheer audacity of the Human fleet admiral. He reminded him of an Eternal. This admiral was dangerous and Qurant dared not take any chances. He needed to kill him and his fleet.

-

The two fleets steadily drew closer. Missiles were being launched constantly and now energy beams of various types came into play. If a ship on either side lost its energy screen, it was either instantly destroyed by missiles or riddled with energy beams. Ships were being annihilated so rapidly it was nearly impossible to keep track of the numbers.

The Originator fleet steadily neared the forward ship wall of the Eternals. Weapons fire was nonstop with the ships in the front of the Originator cylinder taking the most damage. The Eternals were focusing on this section of the approaching fleet attempting to destroy it before it reached their wall of ships. Massive explosions were occurring in both fleets. Ships were simply disappearing under the onslaught of dark matter and antimatter energy.

With ships on fire and falling out of formation, the Originator cylinder reached the Eternal wall formation and penetrated it. There were a number of collisions, which resulted in the destruction of both vessels involved.

-

Race winced as the dreadnought Justice blew apart just a few kilometers from the WarHawk. Some of the debris slammed into the flagship’s energy shield but failed to penetrate.

“Fleet status!”

“Uncertain,” replied Commander Haskins. “We’ve lost a lot of ships and many others are reporting in as damaged. We’re having trouble maintaining our formation. In some sections of the cylinder, the Eternals have destroyed our battlecruisers all the way to the third ring.”

“The Eternals are attempting to change their fleet formation,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “I believe they’re trying to englobe us.”

“Reduce speed by 90 percent,” ordered Race. “All ships are to maintain maximum weapons fire. We must do as much damage to the Eternal fleet as possible.”

Race switched his gaze to the tactical display. The two fleets were becoming intermingled. Eternal ships were maneuvering to encircle the Human cylinder. Race could see the cylinder was rapidly coming apart as more ships were lost. However, at this range the Eternals were losing ships rapidly to the dark matter missiles knocking down their energy screens. Dark energy beams and gravitonic cannons were also wreaking havoc in the Eternal fleet as they penetrated weakened energy screens.

“We need to withdraw,” said Commander Haskins, looking a little rattled. “If we stay here too long we’ll lose the fleet.”

The WarHawk shook violently and one of the command consoles exploded in a burst of sparks. Smoke was filling the Command Center as the air ventilation system fought to clear the room.

“Zamdol, what’s your current analysis of the battle?”

“Due to our proximity to the Eternal ships we are destroying large numbers. However, due to their superior numbers they are destroying many of our ships as well. The Eternal numerical superiority will eventually lead to their victory.”

Race looked around the Command Center. He was trying not to cough from the smoke which was rapidly clearing from the room. His officers didn’t look panicked. They had confidence in him to carry them through this crisis.

“Maintain our current position but be prepared to reverse course at a moment’s notice. I want to damage this Eternal fleet as much as possible.”

-

Admiral Qurant was growing aggravated at these Humans. They had already destroyed thousands of his warships. While he was doing the same to them the Humans were refusing to withdraw. Very well, he thought. If they want to die here, they can die. I will destroy their fleet.

“Continue to englobe the Humans. I want every one of their ships destroyed.”

“Admiral, there is a problem. Our ships are so close together all of our ships cannot fire on the Humans without hitting our own vessels. We are losing one of our ships for every one of the Human vessels we destroy.”

“We have the ships to lose,” replied Qurant coldly. “Destroy the Humans!” His eyes went to the viewscreen and watched as several Originator battlecruisers were torn apart by energy beams. His nanite-enhanced mind was satisfied with his strategy. Once this fleet was destroyed, he would annihilate the rest of the defenses in the system and the inhabited planet they protected.

-

Race stared stone-faced as two more of his dreadnoughts died in nova-like explosions after being struck by two hundred-megaton antimatter weapons. With a deep sigh, he knew it was time to withdraw. “Rotate all ships 180 degrees and head back to New Tellus; best possible speed.”

-

The Originator battlecruisers and dreadnoughts reversed course and disengaged from the Eternal formation. Hundreds of ships remained behind as they were too damaged to withdraw. They were quickly eliminated by the Eternals though they did manage to take some Eternal vessels with them.

-

Looking at the viewscreen, Race saw there were far fewer green icons now than there had been before he attacked the Eternal fleet. “How many ships made it out?” He knew he wasn’t going to like the answer.

“Eight thousand two hundred and fourteen battlecruisers and four hundred and seven dreadnoughts,” answered Commander Haskins as he checked some of the data on his console. “We’re lucky that many survived.”

“How many Eternals did we get?”

“A little over twelve thousand,” replied Commander Haskins. “We got that many because our missiles have a greater range and we hit them with two waves before they began firing back.”

Race wished they could have stayed out of the range of the Eternal weapons and simply pounded the enemy fleet into submission. However, that wouldn’t have been possible. The Eternals would have simply closed the distance until the range advantage disappeared.

“Take us to New Tellus; we’ll have to stop them there.” Race just hoped they could, that was still one hell of a fleet coming toward the planet. The Eternals still had nearly twenty-five thousand warships to attack New Tellus and its defenses. In this next battle there could be no retreat.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Admiral Qurant’s fleet was advancing slowly toward his primary target, the inhabited planet of this system. He was concerned about the four forty-kilometer battlestations in orbit as well as the large fortified asteroids. He had never in his long career as an Eternal admiral seen a planet so heavily defended.

“There are six shipyards in orbit,” reported Second Commander Anston. “All are extremely large but one is truly massive.”

“We’ll be in weapons range of their shipyards and remaining ships in thirty-two minutes,” added the sensor officer.

Admiral Qurant nodded. “Maintain current course and speed. That will give us more time to conduct repairs.”

Qurant took a moment to study the tactical display. Everywhere he looked there were swarms of red threat icons. The planetary defense grid was massive with a number of large warships in orbit just beneath it. He wasn’t certain what their purpose was but he would soon find out when he launched his attack against the planet.

Standing up, Qurant went over to Tactical to set up his attack plan. His fleet still had plenty of missiles and there were many targets around the planet that would need to be taken out.

-

In the Solar System, Massie was listening to the reports coming in from New Tellus of the battle being waged there. So far, New Tellus was still safe though the Eternal fleet was steadily getting closer to the planet. Her eyes shifted to the large holographic tactical display showing the eight thousand Eternal ships close to Mars. For the past hour the fleet had steadily been getting closer to the red planet.

“Twenty-three minutes and they’ll be in attack range,” said Commander Macleod.

Massie folded her arms across her chest as she studied the tactical situation. She desperately wanted to destroy this fleet and then go to her brother’s aid.

Taking a deep breath, she made her decision. “Communications, inform Fleet Admiral Nagumo I’m taking part of my fleet to attack the Eternals. I’ll leave three thousand battlecruisers here in case the Eternals enter hyperspace and attempt to attack Earth.” That would leave Massie with 6,200 battlecruisers and 320 dreadnoughts with which to attack the Eternal fleet.

“Message sent and acknowledged,” replied Jennifer. “Fleet Admiral Nagumo says to give them hell.”

A fleeting smile crossed Massie’s face. Nagumo was a dedicated fleet officer and had guided the Federation through many battles during his illustrious career. She was confident he could defend Earth while she was away. “Commander Macleod, take us into hyperspace and put us twenty thousand kilometers in front of the Eternal fleet.” That was just outside of missile range but not by much. “We’ll form up into a wedge formation apex facing the Eternal ships. Once the wedge is formed we’ll move in to attack.”

Massie looked over at Jennifer. “Contact Admiral Johnston and inform him of our plans. He’s to hold his position over Mars unless I order otherwise.”

“Ready to enter hyperspace,” reported Falolt. “Coordinates have been transmitted to all the ships accompanying us.”

Massie nodded. “Take the fleet to Condition Two and take us into hyperspace.”

Instantly red lights started flashing and klaxons began sounding. Commander Macleod made the announcement over the fleet wide comm announcing the setting of Condition Two.

“Entering hyperspace,” reported Falolt as she activated the ship’s hyperspace drive.

Massie leaned back in her command chair as the ship entered hyperspace and headed toward the location of the Eternal fleet. She needed to defeat the Eternals or at least force them to withdraw.

-

A few minutes later the Hera dropped out of hyperspace twenty thousand kilometers from the Eternal Fleet. “Set Condition One,” ordered Massie. She could feel her pulse racing as the Eternal fleet appeared on the main viewscreen. She leaned forward studying the viewscreens as well as the tactical display.

“Ships are forming up,” reported Commander Macleod. “We’ll have our wedge formation complete in another four minutes.”

On the tactical display, the ships moved rapidly into formation. Soon the wedge was formed facing the oncoming Eternals.

“Take us into combat range. All ships are to launch dark matter missiles as soon as we come within range. I want the first strike to come from us and not the Eternals.” It was the only way she could win this battle. Her first strike of dark matter missiles had to even the odds. If it did she was willing to engage in a slugging match with the remaining Eternal ships.

The Hera and the rest of her fleet rapidly closed with the Eternals. Suddenly from each ship, missiles launched and headed toward the enemy. The Eternal vessels seemed to be taken by surprise as the Originator fleet was able to launch a second wave of missiles before the Eternals responded. By then it was too late as over 300,000 dark matter missiles were hurtling toward the Eternal battlecruisers.

-

Second Leader Abross was stunned by the sudden appearance of the Originator fleet. It had been years since he had commanded an Eternal fleet in an actual battle. Precious seconds were lost as he tried to decide his best course of action. By the time he ordered the Eternal fleet to launch missiles, the first Originator missiles were already striking his ships.

Dark matter missiles began slamming into energy shields, threatening to knock them down. More missiles arrived and screens actually began to fail. The powerful explosions of the dark matter missiles were blowing the Eternal battlecruisers apart. Across the forward section of the Eternal fleet nova-like explosions were appearing where battlecruisers were dying.

Abross felt panic as his flagship shook violently and numerous red lights appeared on the damage control console. Panic was something very seldom felt by an Eternal. Most of the time they were too logical to feel such emotions. Looking at the tactical display, he saw hundreds of his battlecruiser icons blinking out of existence. “All ships are to go into hyperspace and target the planet!”

It took almost a full minute for the orders to be received and implemented by all the ships in the fleet. By that time he had lost nearly eleven hundred of his battlecruisers. For some reason it never dawned on Abross that he still had the superior fleet.

-

Massie looked on in disbelief as the Eternal fleet vanished into hyperspace. A number of severely damaged ships remained behind. These were being quickly eliminated by her vessels. “Where did they go?” Massie was concerned they might have jumped to Earth.

“Mars!” answered Lieutenant Reynolds with surprise in his voice. “They performed a micro-hyperspace jump.”

“Damn!” uttered Commander Macleod. “I wasn’t expecting that.”

“Get the fleet turned around and set a course for Mars. Maximum speed! We’ll come up behind the Eternals while they’re engaged against Admiral Johnston.” Massie was relieved Admiral Johnston had a sizable fleet to defend Mars with. He also had two forty-kilometer battlestations plus the defensive grid.

-

Second Leader Abross stared at the viewscreens as his fleet exited hyperspace. In front of him was the Human planet as well as a large defensive fleet heading in his direction. “Launch the nukes!” They were out of range but the nukes would be carried forward from their momentum and would fall on the planet, detonating when they hit the surface.

There was a brief moment of confusion on the Eternal ships as their antimatter missiles were pulled from the tubes and nuclear ones were slid in. During that time Admiral Johnston’s fleet closed the range and began launching missiles.

-

Dark matter explosions began striking the Eternal ships just as they were launching their nuclear missile strike. The sheer volume of Originator missiles reaching their targets immediately started knocking down energy screens, making the hulls of numerous Eternal ships vulnerable. In massive explosions, the Eternal battle line lit up in such brightness from the release of energy it caused viewscreens in the Originator fleet to shut down.

A few seconds later Massie’s fleet dropped out of hyperspace directly behind the Eternals. As soon as the systems in her fleet stabilized, they began pouring dark matter missiles into the rear section of the enemy fleet.

-

Massie stared with worry at the tactical display. The Eternal fleet had launched their nuclear missiles from long range toward Mars. Already the defenses around the planet were blasting the incoming missiles to oblivion but there were so many of them. Massie was deeply concerned that even with the two forty-kilometer battlestations in orbit they might not be able to stop all of them.

“Fighters and bombers are rising from the surface,” reported Lieutenant Reynolds. “They’re going to attempt to intercept any missiles which get through the defense grid.”

“Some are getting through,” added Matol from his tactical station.

The viewscreens came back on showing the planet. Numerous flashes of light were visible where the Eternal missiles were being intercepted. The flashes continued into the defense grid and then down into the atmosphere where the bombers and fighters were located. Then ground based interceptors began launching and more flashes of light appeared, only closer to the ground. Suddenly four brilliant flashes occurred on the surface of Mars as some of the nuclear missiles made it through.

-

One of the missiles struck near the domed city of Armstrong. The city’s dome was instantly shattered and fell onto the buildings below in millions of pieces. The blast wave from the nuke swept through the city, leveling buildings and uprooting trees. The heat blast from the nuke arrived, setting the city on fire. There was just enough oxygen in the air from the ongoing terraforming project to allow the fires to continue to burn. Above the surface of the red planet a towering mushroom cloud rose. In the city of Armstrong, out of eighty thousand inhabitants over seventy-two thousand were dead and most of the others would die shortly.

-

Massie’s face hardened with anger. “Hit the Eternals with everything we’ve got! I don’t want a single one of their ships escaping. We’ll make them pay for what they did to Mars!” On the viewscreen, two additional mushroom clouds were rising on the planet.

The two forty-kilometer battlestations were now firing on the Eternal fleet. Using their gravity drives, the stations were moving closer to the Eternals. The battlestations were covered with weapon emplacements and missile tubes. The Eternals were still launching missiles but the targeting was becoming erratic as more of their ships were lost.

-

Second Leader Abross knew he had committed several tactical blunders. The nanites in his mind helped to point out what he had done wrong. On the viewscreen, he could see where six nukes had struck the planet. However, six was not nearly enough to wipe the life off this world. “All ships are to target their antimatter missiles on the planet. I want it destroyed.”

His second officer looked at him in dismay. “If we do that, the Humans will destroy our fleet. It will give them too big an advantage in firepower.”

Abross pointed to one of the large battlestations on one of the viewscreens. “And what do you call that? Those two stations are going to destroy our fleet no matter what we do. The least we can do is kill the Humans on the planet.”

“We could withdraw,” suggested the second officer. “We could escape into hyperspace.”

Abross’s shoulders drooped. “For what purpose? When we return to the Empire we’ll all be sent to a penal colony or mining world for our failure. It is better to die here in combat with our enemy.”

The second officer did not reply. He knew Abross was correct. “I’ll have the missiles re-targeted.”

-

Massie was moving her fleet steadily toward the Eternal vessels. She noted with great worry the Eternals were now firing all of their missiles at Mars. Admiral Johnston’s fleet intercepted some of them and the defensive grid even more. The two battlestations were intercepting the most with the Type Two Battlestations and the Indomitable Class Battlestations focusing their fire solely on the incoming missiles.

“The Eternals are only using their energy weapons against us,” pointed out Commander Macleod.

Massie nodded. “Our triplex energy screens can handle those. Move our fleet to pointblank range. We need to eliminate the Eternal ships as quickly as possible.” On the main viewscreen, a two hundred-megaton antimatter missile detonated on the surface of Mars. Massie felt nauseous as she saw the massive fireball and towering mushroom cloud forming. She knew millions of Humans had just died.

The Originator ships poured their weapons fire into the Eternal vessels. Fireballs and exploding ships spread across the tattered Eternal formation.

-

Second Leader Abross stared at the tactical display feeling no emotion. His ships were dying at an alarming rate. It did not matter. His mission was nearly a success. Four antimatter explosions were now visible on the planet. However, the amount of missiles his ships were now launching were not enough to get through the defensive fire. He felt his flagship shake violently and could hear the sound of tearing metal. Somewhere nearby there was an explosion which shook the Command Center. The damage control console was full of red lights. His crew stood at their stations, unafraid of death. They were the Eternals and they were willing to die for their Empire.

-

Massie had located what she believed was the Eternal flagship. It was already under heavy fire from several Originator battlecruisers. She moved the Hera closer until its own weapons began pounding the enemy vessel. She watched in satisfaction as the weakening energy shield failed completely and the Eternal battlecruiser was riddled with energy beam fire. Then, just to make sure, she had Matol launch two dark matter missiles into the midsection of the enemy ship. Two miniature suns formed where the Eternal battlecruiser once was. When the energy died away all that was left of the Eternal flagship were a few wisps of glowing gas.

“Enemy flagship has been destroyed,” confirmed Lieutenant Reynolds. “There are only a few surviving Eternal vessels left and they are being rapidly dealt with.”

Massie did not reply. She watched impassively as the last of the Eternal fleet was reduced to twisted and glowing wreckage. It had been a slaughter. The Eternal fleet had been destroyed and from the tactical display, only a few Originator or Human ships had been lost. However, the half of Mars that had been facing the Eternal fleet now lay in ruins. Massie drew in a deep breath. The far side of the planet had been spared though terraforming had probably been set back by decades. It would be days before they knew the total civilian losses. Mars had a population of over 1.7 billion. From the look of the damage done to the planet nearly half of them could be dead.

“Inform Admiral Johnston he has command of Mars defense. We’re going to New Tellus.”

“Are you sure that’s wise?” asked Commander Macleod. “What if the Eternals send another fleet?”

“They won’t,” replied Massie. “All of their ships are either in Alton space or at New Tellus. We need to destroy that fleet. Jennifer, contact Fleet Admiral Nagumo and inform him I’m taking my fleet to New Tellus. We’ll be going into hyperspace to return to Earth and then transit to New Tellus through the Accelerator Ring.”

“Why don’t we use the one here?” asked Commander Macleod.

Massie shook her head. “I want to leave it open for medical transports and rescue ships. Mars is going to need a lot of help over the next few days.”

Massie looked at the viewscreen showing Mars. The atmosphere was a dark reddish brown and getting darker. Massie had no idea what a nuclear winter on Mars would be like but it looked as if they were going to find out.

-

Fleet Admiral Nagumo was on board his flagship, the battleship Luna, when he received Rear Admiral Tolsen’s message. With a deep sigh, he leaned back in his command chair. The Eternals in the Solar System were defeated but the cost had been high. He knew it was essential to destroy the fleet in the New Tellus System so no more worlds or outposts of the Federation would be harmed. “Inform the Originator battlecruisers at the Accelerator Ring Rear Admiral Tolsen will be arriving soon and will be going to New Tellus. Have the ring ready for activation.”

While Tolsen was gone he needed to decide what kind of aid to send to Mars. He knew the affects of an antimatter explosion would be devastating and Mars had suffered four detonations of the deadly missiles. Cleanup from the attack would take decades.

-

Race pulled his ships back closer to New Tellus. Many of his battlecruisers were damaged as well as some of the dreadnoughts. On the tactical display, he saw the Eternals were continuing to advance. Their fleet was still in their wall formation with eight thousand ships in each of the front three layers with several thousand ships trailing the formation. Race guessed the trailing ships were probably the most heavily damaged.

Race turned toward Zamdol. “Any suggestions?”

“We should destroy the Accelerator Ring farthest from the planet. That will give us one less major asset we need to defend. Also, as the Eternals get closer they will try to seize it.”

There were two Accelerator Rings near New Tellus. One was near New Tellus Station and the other a little farther out.

“Do it,” ordered Race. “Tell the Originator battlecruisers guarding the outer Accelerator Ring to destroy it and then fall back and join our formation. In addition, request Admiral Crown join our fleet as well. We’ll try to stop the Eternals just short of New Tellus.” That would give him a little over ten thousand ships. Still not good odds considering what they were going up against.

-

Admiral Qurant stopped his fleet just short of the Originator vessels’ missile engagement range. He wanted to make sure his fleet was in its proper formation and ready to initiate his battle plan. This time they would move forward much faster thus neutralizing the Originators’ greater missile engagement range. He was willing to enter into a missile and energy weapons duel with the Humans if necessary. He had them outnumbered almost three to one and should be able to easily overwhelm the fleet in front of him. After the battle he should still have enough ships to destroy the defenses around the planet and then use his nukes against the inhabited world of Humans.

“Fleet is ready, Admiral,” reported Second Commander Anston.

Qurant nodded. “Initiate the battle plan.”

Almost instantly the Eternal fleet charged forward. Qurant was right about being able to eliminate the Originator vessels’ greater engagement range. Both fleets launched missiles within two seconds of one another.

-

Race felt the WarHawk shudder as several Eternal antimatter missiles struck its energy shield.

“Shield is holding at 92 percent,” reported Zamdol. “Returning fire with all weapons.”

Race wished the WarHawk were equipped with the blue energy spheres. They would make a huge difference in a battle such as this. Glancing over at the tactical display, he saw a number of green icons wink out. Some red ones were vanishing as well.

“We’re losing two ships for every Eternal vessel we destroy,” reported Commander Haskins. “We won’t survive long at this rate.”

Race had already decided when his fleet lost half of its ships he would pull back to the defensive grid to make a last stand. On one of the viewscreens, the outer Accelerator Ring exploded as the self-destruct charges were activated.

“Ring confirmed destroyed,” reported Lieutenant Justin.

“Hold our position,” ordered Race. On one of the viewscreens, the dreadnought Talon was under heavy attack. Its energy shield was weakening, allowing Eternal energy beams to occasionally penetrate. They were cutting deep into the hull of the ship and setting off secondary explosions. Race leaned forward, praying for the ship to get its energy shield back up. In a sudden explosion a massive blast tore the ship in two. The Eternals then hit the vessel with two antimatter missiles, destroying both halves.

“Talon confirmed destroyed,” reported Lieutenant Justin.

“Acceleration Ring is activating,” reported Commander Haskins with surprise in his eyes.

Race turned his eyes to one of the viewscreens focused on the lone surviving Accelerator Ring. A swirling blue vortex formed and from the vortex Originator dreadnoughts and battlecruisers began to emerge.

“Miss me, big brother?” a female voice asked over the command frequency Race was monitoring.

“Massie!” said Race grinning. “You’re a sight for sore eyes. Have your fleet join up with mine. We have some Eternals who need to be taught a lesson. I assume you destroyed the Eternals in the Solar System?”

“Yes,” replied Massie. “They hit Mars pretty heavily but never made it to Earth. Fleet Admiral Nagumo is handling the defense of the system at the moment.”

Race began modifying his battle plan. With the unexpected reinforcements the battle situation had changed.

-

Admiral Qurant watched as thousands of Originator ships poured out of the swirling vortex.

“Detecting 6,040 Originator battlecruisers and 308 of their dreadnoughts,” reported the sensor officer.

Admiral Qurant wondered where the ships had come from. The arrival of this new fleet had changed the odds considerably. He no longer had a three to one advantage in ships; it was more like a two to one advantage.

“Continue the attack. We will press forward and begin attacking the shipyards and the defensive installations around the planet.” Qurant planned on moving through the Originator fleet so his fleet weapons could strike the more important targets. No doubt both sides would lose many of their ships but he had the superior fleet and should be able to fight his way through the Originator fleet and still have a sizable force left.

-

The two fleets merged and the fighting grew even more intense. It was almost like a massive dogfight but instead of it being opposing fighters it was between giant warships. Whenever possible Originator ships were trying to pair up to take on the Eternal ships now all around them.

Eternal antimatter missiles slammed into an Originator dreadnought, weakening its energy shield. Several energy beams flashed through the shield, cutting deep inside the ship. Several explosions blew hull fragments away from the vessel. Inside alarms were sounding and emergency bulkheads were slamming shut sealing off the damaged sections of the ship. Personnel trapped in the damaged sections hurried to put on protective gear before the oxygen was depleted. Emergency repair crews rushed to the damaged compartments to rescue trapped personnel and see if the damage was repairable. Most of the trapped personnel were AIs and could survive for a short time in the vacuum of space. They helped the Humans who were trapped with them get into protective gear. For some it was already too late.

The Eternal ships continued to strike the energy shield with antimatter missiles, trying to knock it down. More energy beams penetrated, striking the ship and causing even more damage. One energy beam struck Engineering, destroying part of the ship’s sublight control system. In an instant the dreadnought lost its ability to maneuver. Seeing the now helpless ship the Eternals intensified their attack. Suddenly the energy screen collapsed and several two hundred-megaton antimatter missiles slammed into the hull of the dreadnought. The ship blew apart as twin suns formed at its position. There were no survivors.

-

Race watched as the Eternal fleet combined with his and then continued to move through his fleet. He had not expected this maneuver.

“What are they doing?” asked Commander Haskins, his brow wrinkled in confusion. “Why aren’t they stopping to engage our fleet?”

“They’re heading for the planet,” answered Zamdol. “They have superior numbers and are pushing through our fleet. Both sides will suffer significant ship losses but enough Eternal vessels will survive to be able to attack New Tellus.”

Race pressed an icon on his command console putting him in contact with Admiral Crown. “Admiral, the Eternals are attempting to push through our fleet to attack New Tellus. I need you to pull your ships back immediately and fall back to the defense grid. The planetary defenses are going to need your added firepower to prevent the Eternals from striking the planet.”

“I understand,” replied Admiral Crown. “We’re falling back now.”

On the tactical display, nearly one thousand warships pulled out of the Originator formation and headed for the planet.

“Massie, as soon as the Eternal fleet has passed through our formation we’ll turn and attempt to pin them between us and the planetary defenses.”

“Can the planetary defenses hold up to the Eternals?”

“There are four of our forty-kilometer battlestations, the asteroid fortresses, the shipyards, plus the actual defense grid. There are a significant number of Type Two Battlestations as well as the larger Indomitable Class Battlestations. I believe the defenses will hold. The Eternals have no idea what they’re about to go up against. I plan on crushing this fleet just as you did to the one in the Solar System.”

“Sounds like a plan,” replied Massie.

Race turned his attention back to the tactical display. Green and red icons were blinking out of existence at a rate almost impossible to keep track of. Ships were so close together that mere kilometers separated them. Occasionally they became so close there were collisions. When that occurred both ships died in a massive explosion.

-

Admiral Qurant felt satisfaction as his flagship reached the rear of the Originator fleet and emerged into open space. In front of him was the planet and its defenses. On the tactical display, he saw more of his ships emerging from the battle. “Form the fleet up into a globular formation. No doubt the Originator fleet will attack us from the rear. In a globe formation we can deal with that as well as attack the planet and its defenses.”

Second Commander Anston hurriedly carried out the orders. He knew how important it was for the Eternal fleet to get into the formation quickly.

-

General Madison Wilcox sat in her command chair at the heart of the Command Asteroid Fortress. Around her it was a beehive of activity as they prepared to activate the defenses and engage the Eternals. “As soon as they’re in range, open fire. We need to do as much damage as possible before they get too close to New Tellus.” Madison was deeply concerned by the number of Eternal vessels she was facing and how they had blown right through Admiral Tolsen’s fleet.

“Major Hill, launch all of your fighters and bombers. They’re to take up patrolling positions beneath the defense grid. Their primary mission will be to intercept any missiles that get through.”

Major Hill nodded. “Sending the orders now.”

“I just finished speaking to the governor,” reported General Ethan Smith. “All cities have been evacuated and the population has entered the underground bunkers. Only military personnel remain on the surface.”

“Fighters and bombers are launching from all asteroid fortresses and lifting off from the surface bases,” added Major Hill. “Battlecarriers are beginning to launch their craft as well.”

“New Tellus Station has opened fire!” called out Colonel Briggs.

General Wilcox nodded. “And so it begins.”

-

“Eternal fleet has finished penetrating our formation,” reported Lieutenant Justin. “They are forming up into a globe.”

“All ships are to reverse course and close with the Eternals,” ordered Race. He leaned forward in his command chair as one of the viewscreens focused on New Tellus Station. Its energy screen was lit up from numerous antimatter explosions. However, it had one of the most powerful screens in existence powered by half a dozen antimatter reactors. He also saw the station was unleashing hellfire on the Eternals as New Tellus Station was also heavily armed and protected by a defense grid, some Type Two Battlestations, as well as several Indomitable Class Battlestations. New Tellus Station would be no easy nut for the Eternals to crack.

-

Massie reversed her fleet which was now at the forefront of the attack against the Eternals. Looking at the main viewscreen, she saw the Eternals firing upon three of the shipyards as well as the defense grid around New Tellus. A few antimatter missiles were detonating over several of the asteroid fortresses as well as the forty-kilometer battlestations. With a smirk, she saw the front section of the Eternal fleet was being pummeled by the defensive fire. Eternal battlecruisers were being blown apart in growing numbers as more of the planetary defensive installations began firing on the invading fleet.

From the battlestations and the asteroid fortresses four hundred-megaton dark matter missiles were being launched in massive waves toward the attacking enemy fleet. Adding to that were the energy weapons fire from gravitonic cannons, antimatter projectors, particle beam canons, and even dark energy projectors. The firepower being directed against the Eternals was overwhelming.

-

Admiral Qurant felt stunned at the amount of firepower being directed at his fleet from the planetary defenses. Not only that, the Originator fleet was now firing upon the rear echelon of his formation.

“That planet’s defenses are nearly as strong as a Shrieel,” said Second Commander Anston as he watched several Eternal battlecruisers being torn apart by energy beam fire on one of the viewscreens. “The only thing they lack is the blue energy spheres.”

“Concentrate our fire on the defensive grid over the planet,” ordered Admiral Qurant. He was determined to strike the planet with the fleet’s nukes. “Detonate some of our antimatter warheads over the planet to take out some of those defensive satellites. Also, target those smaller battlestations.”

Second Commander Anston quickly had the fleet change its targeting priority, at least the ones in the front of the globe formation. Those in the rear were still engaged against the advancing Originator fleet.

-

Thousands of Eternal antimatter missiles suddenly began targeting the defense grid and the Type Two Battlestations. Many were intercepted by defensive fire and interceptor missiles, however some did manage to get through. Six Type Two Battlestations were blown apart and hundreds of defense satellites were annihilated by the antimatter explosions. Battlecarriers and light cruisers beneath the grid hurriedly moved to cover the exposed sections where the defensive satellites had been destroyed. Hundreds of Talon fighters and Anlon bombers moved into position to intercept any missiles that might penetrate the weakened defensive grid.

The Eternal fleet moved closer to New Tellus all the time taking heavy losses from the orbital defenses and the Originator fleet assailing it from the rear. Wave after wave of antimatter missiles were being launched toward the planet and its defenses. The sky above New Tellus was constantly lit up from the titanic explosions striking the defensive grid. Two more Type Two Battlestations were destroyed as well as one of the Indomitable Class Battlestations. Antimatter missiles were hammering the energy shields of two of the asteroid fortresses.

-

General Wilcox grimaced as she saw the Indomitable Class Battlestation blown into millions of pieces. The Eternal antimatter missiles had finally knocked its protective energy shield down and after that a half dozen warheads had annihilated the station.

“They’re knocking more holes in the defensive grid,” warned General Smith worriedly. “We’re going to have missiles breaking through shortly.”

“Can your fighter and bombers stop them?” asked General Wilcox, looking over toward Major Hill.

“We’re damn sure going to try,” Hill replied. “I’ve moved the battlecarriers and the light cruisers beneath the holes in the grid. I suspect they’ll be coming under attack shortly.”

General Wilcox nodded. She strongly suspected the Eternals would not be retreating from this battle. This was a battle to the death and she intended to make sure it was the Eternals who died. “Intensify our defensive fire. We need to stop as many of those missiles as possible from reaching the planet.”

-

Race had moved the WarHawk up close to Massie’s flagship to better coordinate the battle. His eyes were focused on the viewscreens showing the battle raging around New Tellus. The Eternals were losing many of their ships but they still had thousands to use to attack the planet. They seemed unconcerned about their losses as long as they could destroy their target.

The battle had become very simple. Could the Eternal fleet be destroyed before it began hitting the surface of New Tellus with nukes? That was still up in the air as both sides were doing everything in their power to kill the other.

-

One of the orbiting shipyards was under heavy attack. A few of the Eternal energy beams had managed to penetrate the fluctuating energy shield. In a number of locations the hull had suffered major damage, opening up compartments to space. Crews rushed to contain the damage but as soon as they repaired one area another was holed by the Eternals.

-

Admiral Qurant saw the weakening shield of the shipyard and ordered the fleet to shift more of its firepower toward it. A minute later the shield collapsed and over thirty antimatter missiles blew the large shipyard apart. Much of its debris would fall on the planet as flaming wreckage.

“Refocus our fire on those ships trying to fill the gaps we’ve blown in the defense grid. If we can destroy them we can begin firing nukes at the planet.” Admiral Qurant was satisfied with the progress of the battle. He had lost more ships than expected but he should still be able to achieve his objective of destroying the planet.

“Weapons fire has been redirected,” reported Second Commander Anston. “Admiral, we have lost nearly twelve thousand more of our ships. At this rate we won’t have much of a fleet left when this battle is over.”

Admiral Qurant turned toward Anston, his face showing anger. “I don’t care if we lose the entire fleet as long as we destroy this planet. We are the Eternals and we fight for the Empire!”

-

The Eternal fleet had closed to within a few thousand kilometers of the defensive grid. Wave after wave of missiles were targeting the grid as well as several of the asteroid fortresses. An antimatter missile managed to penetrate the energy screen of one of the fortresses, exploding against the surface. A huge glowing crater formed and about 20 percent of the asteroid’s defensive armaments were wiped out. The energy shield popped back into place and the remaining defenses continued to fire at the approaching Eternal fleet.

The battlecarrier Odyssey was under attack. Several light cruisers were trying to take the pressure off the larger ship but a series of antimatter missiles destroyed both of the smaller vessels. The Odyssey’s energy screen finally failed under the unrelenting attack and the ship blew apart, scattering wreckage across the surface of New Tellus.

Several squadrons of Talon fighters rushed to fill the void where the Odyssey had been. They were just in time to intercept half a dozen nukes aimed at the planet. Then an antimatter missile detonated in their midst, taking out all of the fighters. Other squadrons hurried to fill the void but before they could reach the break in the planet’s defenses four nuclear missiles hurtled through. Ground based interceptors managed to intercept three but the fourth struck the surface.  The nuke detonated and a towering mushroom cloud created by superheated air rushing from the center of the blast began to rise above the landscape.

-

On board the Command Fortress, General Wilcox saw the missile strike. It pained her to see the mushroom cloud forming over her home planet. “Order one of the forty-kilometer battlestations to move over and cover that break in the defense grid.”

The battlestations were equipped with a gravity drive which allowed them to move the stations if necessary. General Wilcox watched tensely as the station ponderously moved until it was over the hole in the grid. She breathed out a long sigh of relief. The hole for now was plugged until the Eternals created another.

-

Race saw the nuke strike New Tellus. Fortunately, thanks to General Wilcox’s quick thinking, the hole had been closed with one of the large battlestations. “We need to put more pressure on the Eternals. Three of the forty-kilometer battlestations are now in attack range. We need to finish off the Eternal fleet.” Taking a deep breath Race ordered the Originator ships to close in for the kill. It was time to end this battle.

-

Admiral Qurant’s eyes were red with rage. The Originator battlestation had closed the hole which had been blasted in the defense grid. Now three of the monstrosities were raining death upon his fleet. The fourth was on the other side of the planet.

“Target the nearest shipyard,” he ordered, intent on causing more damage to the Human system. “I want it destroyed.”

-

The Eternal ships shifted their fire to the indicated shipyard. For several minutes it held up to their fire and then the shield began to falter. Several energy beams penetrated, blasting out huge holes in the hull and then an antimatter missile penetrated and detonated against the hull, breaking the shipyard in two. Instantly the faltering energy shield failed and a wave of antimatter missiles destroyed the two sections. Glowing debris and twisted wreckage was all that remained.

-

Admiral Crown grimaced as he saw another of his valuable shipyards destroyed by the Eternals. He knew several thousand volunteers had been on board. “Move more of our ships to cover the remaining shipyards. We can’t afford to lose any more of them.”

His second officer nodded and quickly transmitted the orders.

-

Admiral Qurant switched his fire to one of the asteroid fortresses, the same one which had already taken an antimatter strike. If he could knock it out of orbit and into the planet, he could still destroy this Human world.

“We may lose all of our ships before we can bring it down,” reported Second Commander Anston. Those three large battlestations are decimating our forward ranks.”

“Keep firing at the asteroid,” ordered Admiral Qurant, his eyes not leaving the viewscreen.

On the screen, massive explosions were striking the energy shield of the asteroid fortress. For several long minutes the shield held unwavering and then a number of energy beams suddenly penetrated, striking the surface. The shield flickered briefly and two antimatter missiles struck, exploding with massive force. The shield failed and more missiles broke the asteroid in half, sending it falling toward the planet.

“We did it!” exalted Admiral Qurant as his eyes watched the descending asteroid pieces. “That will destroy the planet.”

“Perhaps not,” replied Second Commander Anston as one of the large battlestations began hitting the asteroid with dark matter missiles, pulverizing it. In less than two minutes all that remained were small, shattered pieces which would burn up harmlessly in the atmosphere.

Admiral Qurant leaned back in his command chair, feeling shock. He had failed! Looking at the tactical screen, he was unnerved to see so few green icons representing Eternal ships still surviving. Even as he watched more blinked out and disappeared. The Originator fleet had closed to pointblank range and were attacking his fleet with every weapon they had. Unfortunately, they now outnumbered the Eternal fleet.

“All ships full ahead. We will close to pointblank range and launch every nuke we have at the Human world.” Admiral Qurant was determined to destroy the planet even if it cost him every ship in his fleet.

-

The Eternal fleet surged forward into a withering hail of weapons fire from the battlestations and other defenses. Ship after ship died failing to reach the planet. The Originator fleet charged after them, hitting the Eternal ships with dark matter missiles and every energy beam they had. When the Eternal fleet finally reached the defense grid only eighty-two ships still survived and all of them were heavily damaged. A few managed to fire their missiles before they were destroyed. However, every one of the missiles were intercepted and eliminated before they could detonate.

Admiral Qurant felt his flagship shake violently. The damage control console was covered with red lights.

“We’ve lost all of our missile tubes,” reported Second Commander Anston. “We can’t launch the nukes.”

Admiral Qurant turned toward Anston. “We don’t need our missile tubes. Set the nukes for contact detonation.”

Admiral Qurant sat in his command chair, his face impassive as his flagship broke through the last defenses and hurtled toward the surface of the planet. He watched one of the few working viewscreens as the surface rapidly grew larger.

The Eternal flagship crashed into the surface of New Tellus and all the nukes on board detonated in one tremendous explosion. The blast was so powerful it actually shook the planet. A massive mushroom cloud began to form and rise up into the atmosphere. For hundreds of kilometers around the explosion all buildings were destroyed, trees uprooted, and infrastructure eliminated.

-

Race felt ill upon seeing the massive explosion on the surface of New Tellus. He knew that any underground bunkers that were within that blast range were probably destroyed. “How bad is that going to harm the planet?”

“It’s repairable,” replied Zamdol. “The Originators have technology which can take the radiation and the dust out of the atmosphere. In a year’s time all traces of the effects of the blast will be negligible.”

Race nodded. The Eternals had been defeated but the cost had been heavy. “Put us into orbit around New Tellus. We may be needed for rescue operations.”

Race was relieved to see the blast had occurred far away from where his parents lived. As soon as he could he would take Massie and go see them. For a while, he just wanted to get away from the war. In recent days he had seen too much death and destruction. It was time to take a break. At least for now the war in the Federation was over and the Human race had won though it had paid a terrible cost.

Chapter Twenty-Five

At the Communications and Transport Hub, the results of the battles in the Human Federation of Worlds and Alton space were coming in. The Originator Council was in a meeting reviewing the reports and discussing what if anything they could have done differently.

“The loss in lives in the Human Federation of Worlds is nearing six billion,” reported Councilor Barnes. “The final total is expected to be close to six and a half billion.”

“It’s even worse in Alton space,” reported Councilor Tureen. “We had many more star systems to defend and many of them were heavily populated. I have spoken to other Altons in the government on our homeworld and we’re expecting the total loss of life to be nearly sixteen billion.”

“What of the Eternal fleets?” asked Councilor Castille.

“They’ve been annihilated,” confirmed Admiral Jackson. “Latest count is sixty-one thousand Eternal battlecruisers destroyed.”

This caused a stir in the council. “We never expected the Eternals to commit such a large fleet,” said Councilor Trallis, shaking his head. “If we had we would have committed more of our ships to defending the Federation and the Altons. It was a grave error on our part.”

Councilor Grayseth looked at the council members. “What must we do to ensure this does not happen again? The Eternals failed in this attack; what about the next one?”

“What would you suggest, Admiral Jackson?” asked Councilor Metrecs. “We’re willing to do whatever is necessary.”

“I’ve spoken with Fleet Admiral Strong as well as Admiral Tolsen and they are both in agreement. We should place an Accelerator Ring in orbit around each of the remaining major populated planets in the Human Federation of Worlds. We should also base a fleet of twenty-five thousand Originator battlecruisers and fifteen hundred dreadnoughts at New Tellus which can be sent to any trouble spot in the Federation if the Eternals attack again. Additionally we must commit ten more of our forty-kilometer battlestations to defend those worlds where there are none. Both Fleet Admiral Strong and Admiral Tolsen feel if we do this it will abate the Eternal menace against the Federation.”

“What of the destroyed worlds?” asked Councilor Roan. “We have the technology to restore those worlds within a decade.”

Councilor Trallis slowly nodded his head. “We shall do it. It’s the least we can do. If everyone agrees we will send the fleet and the battlestations as well. I believe we need to add two more facilities for constructing the stations so we can keep up with the demand. However, in order to send the dreadnoughts we need to train more crews. We have nearly every manned ship committed at this time.”

“How many Humans and Altons evacuated?” asked Councilor Barnes. He had been keeping track of it but not since the start of the attack.

“Nearly two billion, three hundred million Humans and four billion six hundred million Altons,” replied Councilor Roan. As a medical doctor, she had been monitoring the evacuation closely.

“Nearly all the Altons who evacuated are from our more aggressive people,” added Councilor Tureen. “They will fight if needed. We also had a large number of our scientists evacuate as well.”

“There are our ship crews,” said Admiral Jackson. “As soon as we get them settled in on the Dyson sphere we can launch a recruitment campaign for the fleet. Rear Admiral Marks is already planning on enlarging the Fleet Academy.”

Councilor Trallis nodded. “It will be another seven months before all the new cities are ready to receive their people. However, we do have some cities already completed and we should begin moving some of the evacuees as soon as possible.”

“What if some want to return home?” asked Jackson. He suspected there would be a few now that the immediate danger was over.

“If they want to return home we’ll make the arrangements,” replied Trallis. “However, I’m hoping most elect to come to the Shrieel. We’ll be showing them videos of the new cities and what we have to offer for those who want to come.”

Councilor Trallis looked over at Councilor Tureen. “What do the Altons need to stay safe on their worlds?”

“We have the capability of building warships at a rapid rate. Already new shipyards are being planned as well as the construction of larger Indomitable Class Battlestations. I believe if a fleet of five thousand Originator battlecruisers and several hundred dreadnoughts were assigned to our capital world that would be sufficient as far as ships go. We would also like ten more battlestations and enough Accelerator Rings so we can get fleets to our ten most heavily populated systems quickly.”

“That seems reasonable,” replied Councilor Trallis. “Unfortunately all of this should have been done a long time ago. We failed the Federation and the Altons by not being better prepared for an Eternal attack. That will not happen again.”

Grayseth addressed Admiral Jackson. “What of the attacks on the ten Eternal galaxies? How are they progressing?”

“Good,” replied Jackson. “Six galaxies are putting up little resistance. We believe many of the ships which attacked the Altons and the Federation came from those galaxies. The other four galaxies are putting up more resistance and reserve forces have already been sent to each of them.”

“What about Commander Zafron?”

“He reports considerable gains in Galaxy 7296 and expects to have it fully under his control within the next week.”

-

The discussion continued for the next hour over the ships and resources to be sent to the Federation and the Alton worlds as well as moving the evacuees to the new cities as they were completed. Finally, the conversation turned to Fleet Admiral Strong and the new battlestation.

“The new Accelerator Ring will be finished in two weeks and the battlestation in four weeks,” reported Councilor Dreel. He was a space construction specialist who had been overseeing both of the projects.

“How long will it take the new battlestation to arrive at its destination?” asked Trallis.

Trallis knew the importance of sealing the spatial rift before the Creevak came through again. Currently Fleet Admiral Strong had most of the fleet which had accompanied him to that remote satellite galaxy parked in front of the anomaly in case the Creevak came back.

“Eight weeks’ travel time,” replied Dreel. “Due to its size it will travel slower than the fleet did.”

Admiral Jackson frowned heavily and blinked his eyes. “So we’re looking at twelve weeks before the new battlestation arrives at the anomaly.”

“At the minimum.”

Jackson took in a deep breath. “I propose we send additional ships to Fleet Admiral Strong to help guard the anomaly until the new battlestation arrives.”

“How many and what type?” asked Councilor Metric. “We’re starting to stretch our fleet resources pretty thin with all of these commitments.”

“Only a thousand battlecruisers and one hundred dreadnoughts,” replied Jackson. “I’m pretty sure I can scrounge up that many.”

Councilor Metric nodded her head. “I approve. I recommend we send them immediately. We don’t need the Creevak coming through the anomaly and starting another intergalactic war.”

“This one would be between universes,” pointed out Admiral Jackson. “It’s a battle we can best fight by ensuring it never happens.”

“It sounds as if we have a lot to do,” commented Councilor Barnes. “I suggest we get to it.”

“Agreed,” replied Councilor Trallis. “This meeting is adjourned. We’ll meet back in one week to check on the progress of all of these missions and projects.”

-

As Grayseth left the Tower he couldn’t help but wonder how Jeremy was doing. He missed his clan brother and in some ways wished he had never become a councilor. His life now was so boring compared to commanding a starship and fleet. Of course, he had Marille and the cubs. They were enough to keep him occupied for now.

-

First Leader Fehnral was in a foul mood. He had just received confirmed reports the fleets sent to destroy the Humans and the Altons had been eliminated. Second Leader Abross had also perished in the attacks.

“The Originators committed far more ships to the defense of the Humans and the Altons than we believed they would,” reported Second Leader Torrel. “The few communications we received indicate the Originators committed nearly as many ships as we did plus some of their large battlestations.”

Fehnral frowned. He couldn’t believe his plan had failed. “The Humans and the Altons will be prepared now. They will fortify their worlds to the point making an attack against them will be nearly impossible.”

“What should we do about the galaxies the Originators are attacking?” asked Second Leader Nolant. “Reports from those galaxies indicate the Originators have committed over 200,000 warships to taking those galaxies away from us.”

It was all Fehnral could do to control his rising anger. Even his nanites were failing to help control his emotions. “We don’t have the ships to send to those galaxies before the Originators take control.”

“We still have control of four of those galaxies,” pointed out Second Leader Queexel. “I suggest we send what reinforcements we can to ensure we maintain control of those galaxies.”

“Where do we get the ships?” demanded Fehnral. “We pulled most of the ships we used to attack the Humans and the Altons from those galaxies as well as others.”

“We abandon the six galaxies where the Originators have an advantage,” suggested Queexel. “We then send those ships to reinforce our ships in the other four galaxies.”

“What about galaxy 7296? That galaxy is also under heavy attack.”

Fehnral shook his head. “I spoke to the fleet commander in charge of that galaxy and he is not going to be able to hold it. I’ve already ordered him to withdraw rather than lose all of his warships.”

“So, what happens with the war against the Originators and the Humans and Altons?” asked Second Leader Nolant.

“We are at an impasse,” replied Fehnral. “For now there will be no further attacks on Originator space nor the Human and Alton worlds. We will focus instead on expanding our Empire and replacing our ship losses.”

The other Eternals agreed. For now, there was nothing they could do. The war would continue as it had before the failed attempt to attack the Humans and the Altons. It had been a mistake and a costly one.

-

Six weeks later Jeremy was in the Command Center of the Avenger  200,000 kilometers from the location of the anomaly. Two of Kelsey’s exploration dreadnoughts were at forty thousand kilometers using their science instruments to monitor the rift. The ships’ energy shields had been modified so they could withstand the massive energy pulses emitted from the rift with regularity. So far there had been no fluctuations in the readings. The pulses stayed the same and there had been no evidence of Creevak activity. Jeremy’s fleet was formed into a half globe formation facing the side of the rift that records from the Varnons indicated the Creevak had emerged. He had 120 of his dreadnoughts and 310 of his battlecruisers in the cone formation. Reinforcing the fleet were ten of the Indomitable Class Battlestations he had originally brought through the Accelerator Ring to defend the forty-kilometer battlestation. He had used the ring to position the smaller battlestations near the anomaly.

“Still quiet,” commented Kevin, stifling a yawn.

“Let’s be pleased with that,” replied Jeremy. “I for one don’t want to see a Creevak ship.”

Aaliss stepped over closer to Jeremy. The AI had been communicating with the AIs on the two exploration dreadnoughts. “Still nothing new. The energy pulses have not varied in time or strength.”

“What’s causing the pulses?”

“It may be part of what created the anomaly to begin with,” suggested Ariel. “I believe the pulses are keeping the anomaly open.”

Jeremy’s eyes widened. “You believe it’s open?”

Ariel nodded. “Yes, I believe if a ship were to attempt to enter the anomaly it would be transported to the Creevaks’ universe.”

This concerned Jeremy. They had sent a couple of probes into the anomaly but they had failed to return. Jeremy assumed the energy pulses from the anomaly had destroyed them when they got too close. The chance they had actually transited to the Creevak universe was worrisome.

“The new battlestation will be here in a few more weeks,” said Major Preston. “With its energy shield we should be able to place it much closer to the anomaly.”

Jeremy nodded. There were some reinforcing ships that should be arriving in the next day or two. He was going to put all of them around the anomaly. It would be a huge relief when the new battlestation arrived.

-

Kelsey was at the small home in the battlestation where they had been staying when off duty. Currently everyone was present in the habitat and enjoying their time off. Angela was fortunate as Brace was with her so she had her entire family. Kelsey hadn’t seen Jeremy in weeks since he was on the Avenger watching the anomaly. She wasn’t happy with their time apart but understood this was how it had to be. She would be glad when they could all return to the Dyson sphere.

Her communications device went off and she walked over to answer it, all the while keeping a close watch on Jason. He was getting more mischievous everyday.

“Hello, this is Lieutenant Commander Strong.”

“Kelsey this is Rear Admiral Barnes. I thought I would let you know the Acceleration Ring activated a few minutes ago and the reinforcing fleet is arriving. As soon as they’re all present I’ll send them on to the anomaly where Fleet Admiral Strong is.”

“Thanks for letting me know,” Kelsey replied.

Kelsey felt immense relief at the arrival of the Originator fleet. It would triple the number of warships guarding the anomaly. It reduced some of the concern she had about Jeremy being gone so long. In a few more weeks the new battlestation would be here and maybe then they could all go home for a while. Along with the battlestation would be some emissaries from the Originators and Altons who would be working with the Galactic Union in setting up an Originator base and sending missions to the other galaxies in this cluster. So far, the Galactic Union seemed very receptive about contacting other galaxies and aiding the Originators against the Eternals.

-

Several weeks passed and it was growing close to the time for the new battlestation to arrive. At the anomaly Jeremy was pacing in the Command Center, feeling nervous. An hour ago both exploration ships had reported a spike in the energy pulses coming from the anomaly. Jeremy ordered both ships to pull back to eighty thousand kilometers as a precaution.

Jeremy stopped and looked over at Ariel. “Are the energy spikes continuing?”

Ariel nodded. “They’re continuing and seem to be increasing.”

“I believe there is a good chance the Creevak might be returning,” commented Aaliss. “It’s the only explanation for the spike in energy readings. The AIs on the two exploration ships are in agreement as well as the Originator scientists on board. I would recommend you prepare the fleet for combat.”

Jeremy didn’t hesitate. “Ariel, take the fleet to Condition Two. We’ll go to Condition One as soon as the first Creevak vessel appears. Lieutenant Lantz, contact Rear Admiral Barnes and inform her the Creevak might be about to come through the anomaly. I could use the New Horizon.”

The New Horizon was the only warship other than the Dominator which was equipped with the blue energy spheres. The blue energy spheres also had a much greater range than any other weapon the fleet was equipped with.

“Jeremy!” shouted Kevin, his face turning white. “Look at the viewscreen!”

On the screen, the anomaly seemed to darken and a nightmarish ship began to emerge from its center. It was crab shaped with six curving spires coming out from the sides of the hull and then curving until they pointed forward. It was dead black in color and utterly alien in design.

“How big is that thing?” asked Lieutenant Striker, his eyes focused intently on the main viewscreen.

“It’s 2,300 meters,” replied Kevin as his hands touched several icons on his computer screen. “It’s also about 1,400 meters wide and 600 meters thick and that does not include the spires.”

“Power readings are nearly off the scale,” reported Aaliss. “I’m not sure what they’re using for a power source but it’s not nuclear or antimatter.”

The Avenger lurched suddenly. “What was that?” asked Jeremy as he hurriedly sat down in his command chair.

“It was a reverse gravity wave,” answered Aaliss. “We’re being pulled toward the anomaly.”

“Lieutenant Striker, counter that pull with our engines. I don’t want us getting any closer to the anomaly. Pass the order on to our other ships and the battlestations. Order the exploration ships to pull back.”

“Jeremy!” called out Kevin, pointing at the main viewscreen. “The exploration ships are in trouble.”

On the viewscreen, the two exploration dreadnoughts were slowly being pulled toward the anomaly. Their engines were fighting the pull but only having minimal success.

The Creevak vessel advanced on the two ships and as soon as it was in range began firing its red beam weapon. The weapon struck the triplex energy shield of one of the ships but failed to penetrate.

Jeremy quickly contacted the commanders of the two exploration ships and ordered them to return fire.

The two exploration dreadnoughts began firing their dark energy and antimatter beams at the Creevak vessel. Its energy screen lit up as if it were on fire but stayed up. Then both ships launched a wave of dark matter missiles. The shield held up for a full minute before collapsing. In a titanic explosion, the Creevak vessel exploded.

The crew in the Command Center cheered but became quiet when they saw another Creevak vessel emerging from the anomaly. As soon as it cleared the anomaly it pulled over to one side and another vessel began to emerge. This continued until twenty-three of the vessels were formed up into a small fleet and then another vessel began to come through.

“That one’s larger,” commented Ariel. “Much larger.”

“The others may be battlecruisers; this one is a battleship or dreadnought,” suggested Aaliss. “Both exploration ships report they cannot pull away from the anomaly and their hyperspace drives are nonfunctional because of the gravity waves.”

 “That’s a monster,” said Kevin as he scanned the vessel. “It’s 3,300 meters in length, 2,000 meters in width and nearly 900 meters in depth.”

The Creevak vessel continued to emerge and then took up a position behind the other ships.

“Why are they coming through so slowly?” asked Lieutenant Lantz.

“Unknown,” answered Aaliss.

“Ariel, inform the exploration dreadnoughts not to wait on the Creevak to fire. They’re to fire as soon as the enemy are within range.”

-

The Creevak fleet advanced and as soon as they were in weapons range the exploration dreadnoughts began firing. Energy beams and wave after wave of antimatter and dark matter missiles struck the advancing Creevak vessels. Two exploded in fiery fireballs and then the large Creevak vessel opened fire. A silver beam of energy struck one of the exploration dreadnought’s energy screen, going right through it as if it were made of butter. The beam played over the ship ripping open compartment after compartment. Secondary explosions began shaking the dreadnought and then in a massive explosion, the ship blew apart. The second exploration dreadnought fared no better as a few minutes later it too was destroyed.

-

“What type of beam is that?” demanded Jeremy, his face pale with shock.

“I don’t know,” replied Aaliss. “It’s powered by something we’re not familiar with.”

Jeremy drew in a deep breath. “Contact the New Horizon. We’re going to need them as quickly as they can get here. The ship’s blue energy spheres may be the only weapon we have which can stop that Creevak battleship.”

-

Kelsey ran into the Command Center of the New Horizon seeing Katie was already there. Rear Admiral Barnes was sitting in her command chair giving orders to the crew to get ready to get underway.

“Where are Angela and Major Caulder?”

“I ordered them to stay in the habitat in the battlestation,” answered Kelsey as she sat down. They have the kids and Clarissa is with them as well. What about the other kids and their families on the ship?”

“Evacuated,” replied Kathryn. “We’re going into an extremely dangerous situation and I felt it prudent for the children and their parents not to take the risk. If you and Katie want to stay behind I’ll understand.”

“No,” answered Kelsey. “Jeremy and Kevin are both at the anomaly. We’re going.”

Kathryn nodded. “I thought so. Sible, plot a hyperspace jump to within 600,000 kilometers of the anomaly.” From the reports she had received from Jeremy that was as close as she wanted to get to it while in hyperspace.

Moments later the New Horizon made the transition into hyperspace and headed for the vicinity of the anomaly and the battle that was probably already being waged there.

-

It didn’t take long for the ship to reach its destination. Tension was high in the Command Center as the super exploration dreadnought prepared to exit hyperspace. The ship suddenly shook violently and then the shaking stopped.

“What was that?” asked Kathryn, looking at Andram and Arian.

“Gravity wave,” answered Arian.

“A reverse gravity wave,” added Andram, looking confused. “I’ve never encountered one before.”

“Dropping out of hyperspace,” reported Sible.

The New Horizon dropped out of hyperspace and the massive forward viewscreen showed the battle in front of them. Wreckage from Originator battlecruisers and dreadnoughts littered the area around the anomaly. There was also considerable wreckage from Creevak vessels.

“How many Creevak vessels are we dealing with?” asked Kathryn, her eyes focusing on the tactical display.

“Forty-six battlecruisers and seven of their battleships,” replied Captain Reynolds. “I’m using the designations Fleet Admiral Strong used in describing the enemy vessels.”

Kathryn winced as a silver beam from one of the Creevak battleships blew an Originator battlecruiser apart. “We’ll close to engagement range and use the blue energy spheres. Target those battleships first and then the battlecruisers. Increase our shield strength to maximum.”

“Rotate the energy shield frequency,” recommended Nomar. “It might help to stop that silver energy beam.”

“Do it,” ordered Kathryn. “Sible, take us in.”

-

The New Horizon rapidly accelerated and headed for the battle. Kathryn chose a section of Originator vessels which were battling two of the Creevaks’ large battleships.

The Creevak must have noticed the arrival of the New Horizon because the two battleships pulled back out of range of the Originator battlecruisers and dreadnoughts.

“Go get them, Sible,” ordered Kathryn, leaning forward in her command chair. She watched the tactical display as the New Horizon rapidly closed with her quarry.

The ship shot past the waiting Originator ships and then was within weapons range of the Creevak vessels.

“Fire the blue energy spheres,” ordered Kathryn. It was time to see how effective they would be against this new enemy.

-

From the bow of the New Horizon the most deadly weapon ever built by the Originators were fired toward the two enemy ships. The blue spheres struck the Creevaks’ energy screens and soon absorbed all their energy, causing them to collapse. The blue spheres then attached themselves to the hulls and began turning the vessels into black space dust.

-

Kathryn breathed a sigh of relief when she saw the enemy ships were not immune to the powerful weapon. More blue spheres attached themselves to the two battleships and in just a matter of a few minutes the two massive vessels had been turned into drifting dust.

“Pull us back to the Avenger,” ordered Kathryn. On the tactical display, the other Creevak ships had broken off their attacks and were moving closer to the anomaly. It was obvious they were concerned about the arrival of the New Horizon and how easily it had destroyed two of their battleships.

-

Jeremy took in a deep breath. The New Horizon had broken the enemy. They had no defense against the blue energy spheres.

“All the Creevak ships have pulled back,” reported Kevin.

“The blue energy spheres certainly seem to be effective against the Creevak vessels,” added Aaliss. “I suspect they’ve never encountered such a weapon before.”

Jeremy looked over at Aaliss and Ariel. “So we have the blue energy spheres and the Creevak have that silver beam. For the time being we seem to be at an impasse. Lieutenant Lantz, see if you can contact the Creevak. Perhaps after losing two of their battleships they’ll be ready to talk.”

For the next hour they attempted to establish communication but all communication attempts were ignored by the Creevak. Jeremy rearranged his fleet, knowing now it was a waiting game. He had to hold the Creevak at the anomaly until the battlestation arrived.

-

Several weeks passed and it was growing time for the new battlestation to appear. The Creevak had sent a few more ships through but seemed hesitant to move away from the anomaly. They had launched a number of probing attacks against the fleet. All had been turned back by the New Horizon and the ship’s blue energy spheres.

The new battlestation was armed with the blue energy spheres and should be able to take up a position closer to the anomaly with its more powerful energy shield. Once it arrived Jeremy was confident he could push the Creevak back through the anomaly. He had already requested additional fleet units from the Communications and Transport Hub. From what he understood, Rear Admiral Hailey Mann and her fleet were being recalled and would be sent out immediately.

“I have the battlestation on the long-range sensors,” reported Kevin with relief evident in his voice. “It should be here in four minutes.”

Jeremy looked toward the tactical screen. Over the last several weeks he had lost nearly half of his fleet and seven Indomitable Class Battlestations. In desperation, he had ordered the remaining battlestations protecting the Accelerator Ring to be sent to the anomaly. The New Horizon had been all across the battlefield. If not for the ship’s blue energy spheres there was no doubt in Jeremy’s mind the Creevak would have broken through the blockade.

“I’m getting some strange readings from the anomaly,” reported Aaliss.

“More ships coming through?” asked Jeremy, his eyes narrowing.

“I don’t think so,” replied Aaliss. “I’ve never seen readings like these before.”

“The battlestation is emerging from hyperspace,” reported Kevin, his eyes focused on his sensors.

Suddenly the Avenger shook violently. The metal in the ship groaned from increased stress.

“It’s a massive reverse gravity wave,” reported Aaliss. “It’s pulling us toward the anomaly.”

The lights suddenly flickered and went out. A few moments later the emergency lighting came on.

“Energy shield is down, all weapons nonfunctional, drive systems are offline,” reported Ariel, her eyes showing deep concern. “We’re trying to switch over to secondary power.”

“What about the Creevak?” asked Jeremy. If they weren’t affected they could destroy his entire fleet, including the New Horizon and the battlestation.

“I have a few outside cameras on the hull still functioning,” replied Ariel. “The Creevak vessels seem to be affected as well. We’re all falling toward the anomaly.”

Jeremy leaned back in his command chair a wave of helplessness sweeping over him. Without power, there was nothing he could do.

-

Rear Admiral Kathryn Barnes was surprised when the power suddenly came back on. “What’s happening to the fleet?”

“Everyone’s lost power and are falling toward the anomaly,” reported Captain Reynolds. “Including the battlestation and the Creevak.”

“Where’s the Avenger?”

“Powerless as well and falling toward the anomaly.”

Kathryn looked at Arian and Andram. “Why do we have power and no one else?”

“I shut our antimatter reactors down,” replied Arian. “As soon as the gravity wave struck us I shut all of them down. A gravity wave such as that can hinder antimatter reactions. I suspect it affected the Creevaks’ systems as well.”

“Why are we falling toward the anomaly?”

“It’s generating a massive gravity field,” answered Andram. “Possibly caused by something on the other side in the Creevaks’ universe.”

Kathryn looked over at Kelsey. Kelsey had a frightened look on her face. “What will happen if all of our ships, the Indomitable Class Battlestations, and the new battlestation go through the anomaly?”

“I suspect they’ll start to regain their power,” replied Arian. “However, by then it will be too late. No doubt there are Creevak ships waiting on the other side and when our forces start to appear they’ll destroy them.”

Kathryn drew in a sharp breath. She knew what she had to do. The anomaly had to be sealed and there was only one way to do it. “Captain Travers, send a message to our battlestation outside the galaxy and inform them what has happened. Tell them I intend to take the New Horizon through the anomaly and destroy the Creevak forces on the other side. I don’t know if any of us will be returning.”

Kelsey and Katie looked at each other. They both realized there was a good chance they would never see their children again.

“Sible, take us into the anomaly. Major Weir, the Creevak vessels are helpless at the moment and we still have power. Use our antimatter missiles to destroy them. That will be one less threat we have to worry about when we get to the other side.”

-

Like an avenging angel of death, the New Horizon blew apart every Creevak vessel on this side of the anomaly. Then the Originator ships began to pass through. Dreadnoughts, battlecruisers, the surviving Indomitable Class Battlestations, and the new battlestation all passed through the anomaly. In front was the New Horizon ready to protect the helpless ships and stations behind her. It took several minutes for all the ships to pass through and then the site around the anomaly was lifeless. There were no intact ships or anything to indicate a fleet had been here. The gravity waves from the anomaly came to a stop and the rift sealed itself back up. Only the steady pulse of energy waves indicated it was still there.

-

Two million kilometers away a lone exploration dreadnought had recorded everything. For six hours the ship waited to see if any vessel would return through the anomaly. When all remained quiet, the ship sent its report off to the battlestation outside the galaxy.

-

Angela sat in shock at hearing the news. The Avenger and the New Horizon were gone! She looked down at the children with her and Brace. Jason was holding Clarissa’s hand and wouldn’t let go.

“What happens to us now?” asked Elizabeth who was one of Katie’s twins.

While the children were young, they understood what had happened.

“All of you will live with Brace and I,” answered Angela, fighting to keep herself from crying.

“I will be there too,” promised Clarissa.

Jason pulled his hand out from Clarissa’s. “We must learn everything we can. Someday we’re going to rescue our parents.”

Angela looked at Jason in surprise. For a moment he had sounded just like Jeremy.

“They may all still be alive on the other side of the anomaly,” announced Clair. “I agree with Jason.” Clair walked over and took Jason’s hand. “I”ll help you. We’ll rescue them.”

All the children gathered around Clair and Jason. There was a look of determination on their young faces.

Angela looked over at Clarissa. “Do you think it’s possible?”

Clarissa nodded. “Don’t forget who these children’s parents are. Can we expect no less from their children?”

“Then we’d better return to the Communications and Transport Hub. We have a lot of research to do and the children will require training.”

“I thought you were against all this special training,” said Brace, looking over at his wife.

“I am, but now it’s necessary. Our friend’s lives are at stake. Someday we’ll go into the other universe and rescue them.”

Clarissa smiled. She had all the confidence in the world in the children. After all their parents were the Special Five and the children would follow in their parents footsteps and no one or anything had better get in their way.

The End

If you enjoyed the Originator Wars: Explorations please post a review with some stars. Good reviews encourage an author to write and also help sell books. Reviews can be just a few short sentences, describing what you liked about the book. If you have suggestions, please contact me at my website, link below. Thank you for reading Explorations and being so supportive.

Note from the Author: This book came out late due to the fact I suffered from severe Kidney failure in June of 2018. I was hospitalized for over three weeks and unable to write for nearly three months. I am now on home dialysis and have begun writing again. Once again I’m sorry for the delay. I also want to thank everyone for being so supportive during my illness. The e-mails and personal messages allowed me to get through some very bad days and to start reliving my life again.

Thank You

Raymond L. Weil

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Read on to discover another military science fiction series by Raymond L. Weil.

Galactic Empire Wars: Final Conflict

Book Six

Chapter One

Lieutenant Sue Adams threw herself to the ground as an energy beam passed overhead to strike a tree just behind her, setting it on fire. In the distance, she could hear loud explosions and the sky was full of smoke.

“Damn aliens!” muttered Sergeant Styles, who was lying on the ground close by. “Don’t they know we’re here to free them?”

“We’re Marines,” replied Adams over her comm unit. Both she and Sergeant Styles were encased in Type Seven battlesuits. The suits were nearly eight feet tall and could shield them from any type of hostile environment as well as being heavily armed. They were a deep black with hints of blue around the joints. “Besides, we don’t know if the incoming fire is from the inhabitants of this world or from Kleese conscripts.”

Lieutenant Adams used the advanced sensors in her suit to scan the land ahead of them. They were on the outskirts of a medium sized spaceport, which was the primary base of the Kleese on Promar Five. It was heavily defended with numerous pop-up weapons, which would suddenly rise up out of the ground and begin firing on any nearby target. Sue had already lost four Marines to the infernal weapons.

“Corporal Wright, I want an explosive barrage fifty meters in front of my position outward to three hundred meters. I want everything in that zone leveled!” From Sue’s position, she could see at least seven to possibly ten pop-up weapons. She was also certain there were more that hadn’t been activated yet. The Kleese over the years had learned how to make the Marines pay the maximum cost in lives for the ground they took.

Lieutenant Adams and her Marines were about five hundred meters from the perimeter of the spaceport. The ground was mostly level with a few trees, bushes, and several small gullies. The gullies were only a few meters deep, not deep enough to hide a Marine in a fully active battlesuit.

“Explosive barrage beginning,” reported Corporal Wright over the comm.

Immediately in front of Lieutenant Adams’ position dozens of explosions began striking the ground, hurling dirt and other debris up into the air to rain down on the watching Marines. All battlesuits had heavy explosive launchers on the backs of the suits and automatic targeting sensors that could put the explosives wherever they were needed.

Lieutenant Adams hunkered down as close to the ground as possible as the ground shook from the continuous explosive barrage. Smoke grew heavier in the air and she had to switch to the special filters in her helmet to allow her to see. Even as she watched she saw several of the pop-up weapons receive direct hits from the explosives, blowing them to pieces.

“That’s blowing the hell out of those emplacements,” said Sergeant Styles as he watched the pop-up weapons being annihilated.

The explosions came to a stop and Lieutenant Adams stood up and carefully peered through the smoke. The filters she was using allowed her to easily see through drifting clouds of smoke. The explosions had also set a few trees and some of the brush on fire. “Move out,” she ordered over the comm. “Staggered formation with scouts ahead. That means you, Private Bose and Evans.”

-

“Why am I always on point?” muttered Private Bose as he stood up and began jogging to the front of the Marine formation, his assault rifle held tightly in his arms.

Private Evans shook his head. “It’s your constant complaining. Maybe the lieutenant is trying to get rid of you so we can all have some peace and quiet.”

Private Bose stopped and glared at Evans though it wasn’t apparent through his helmet. “Naw, she likes me too well. She just wants me to have all the glory.”

“Shut up!” growled Evans. “We need to pay attention before one of us gets shot.”

The two quieted down and began advancing across the now uneven ground. Occasionally the two had to skirt bomb craters and twice they paused to examine destroyed pop-up weapons. Finally the two reached the perimeter of the spaceport and paused, standing behind a wall, which barely hid their eight-foot tall battlesuits.

Evans looked around the corner of the wall, seeing the hard surface of the spaceport stretching out in front of him. There was no doubt in his mind there were probably more hidden pop-up weapons. The Kleese were experts at hiding them. Toward the center of the spaceport was a tall tower, which most likely housed the Kleese in charge of this world. On several of the landing pads Evans could see two of the two hundred-meter assault ships. “We have two assault ships here,” he reported over his comm unit. “The Kleese may already have evacuated to them.”

-

“Why haven’t they taken off?” asked Bose. “What are they waiting for? They have to know this world is lost to them.”

“Our fleet,” answered Evans. “If they attempt to take off they’ll be shot down before they can make orbit.”

Bose stepped over beside Evans, peering toward the two disk-shaped assault ships. “Those things normally contain several hundred heavily armed conscripts. I wonder where they are?” Bose scanned the entire area with his sensors but could detect no movement. The spaceport looked as if it had been evacuated.

Looking back behind him, he saw the rest of the Marines moving up toward the wall. Lieutenant Adams was in the center along with Sergeant Styles. Bose shifted his heavy assault rifle in his arms. This particular rifle fired explosive shells and armor penetrating rounds. It was not unusual for them to be engaged by Kleese conscripts wearing their own battlesuits. Bose was about to say something when he felt a sharp pain in his left arm and just about fell over backward in his suit. The suit’s automatic servos kept him upright though a blinking red light in his HUD indicated damage to his suit. Looking at his left arm, he saw a large dent near his shoulder. “Damn, someone’s shooting at us!” He stepped back behind the wall, examining his shoulder closer. The round hadn’t penetrated though he knew he would have a painful bruise from the impact. The suit automatically injected a painkiller and the throbbing pain quickly went away.

“You think?” replied Evans sarcastically as he fired several energy beams bursts toward where he thought the round had come from. There were a series of large hangers between them and the spaceport tower. The firing from the hangers suddenly increased as numerous rounds slammed into the wall, some going all the way through.

-

Lieutenant Adams had taken cover behind a large tree near the edge of the spaceport. Around her other Marines were seeking whatever cover they could find. Occasionally a small explosion would throw up dirt and debris around them. Somewhere a Kleese conscript was firing a grenade launcher at the advancing Marines. Adjusting the sensors in her helmet, she studied the two assault ships sitting on the blastcrete. There was no movement around them and all the hatches seemed to be shut. Activating her comm unit, she sent a message to Captain Avery who was in charge of this mission. He was in orbit on the Marine assault ship Victory.

“Sir, I’m requesting an orbital strike on the two assault ships sitting near the spaceport tower. I’m concerned they may turn their weapons on us if we move out onto the spaceport blastcrete.”

“Just a moment,” replied Captain Avery. “I need to speak to Commander Brannon.”

A few minutes passed and then Captain Avery spoke again. “The fire order has been approved. The Victory will initiate a kinetic strike in five minutes. Make sure all of your Marines are under cover.”

Sue drew in a deep breath. She had seen numerous kinetic strikes over her career and knew full well how violent they could be. “All Marines, take cover! I’ve called in a kinetic strike against the two Kleese assault ships.”

-

Privates Evans and Bose both took cover behind the wall hoping it would give them sufficient protection.

“I hope the tactical officer hits the targets,” muttered Bose. “I was on Hawkins World when a KEW round went awry. The damn thing took out twelve Marines.”

Looking upward Bose could see several brilliant streaks that looked like meteors. “Here they come!”

Moments later the ground shook violently and a powerful blast wave struck the wall, causing parts of it to collapse.

Private Bose looked back around the corner of the wall to see two pillars of fire and smoke where the assault ships once were. One of the hangers was burning and two others had been leveled. The control tower seemed to be undamaged though Bose doubted if any windows in it had survived.

Evans joined him and nodded in satisfaction. “Nothing left but two holes in the ground. That probably took care of whoever was shooting at us as well.”

“That was some good targeting,” replied Bose, sounding pleased. “At least they missed us.”

“All Marines, advance!” ordered Lieutenant Adams over the comm. “Staggered formation and watch out for pop-ups.”

“Let’s go,” said Evans as he stepped onto the blastcrete of the spaceport. “Keep your eyes and sensors watching for pop-ups and whoever’s been shooting at us.” The firing had stopped when the two KEW rounds struck the assault ships.

-

The Marines rose from their covered positions and began advancing across the blastcrete. They had no sooner stepped onto the spaceport when dozens of pop-up weapons rose from the blastcrete and began firing. Some were energy weapons and others were firing armor penetrating rounds.

“Return fire!” ordered Lieutenant Evans over her comm as she raised her assault rifle and fired an energy beam toward the nearest pop-up. She missed but two others hit the weapon, turning it into a twisted pile of smoking metal. Checking her HUD, she saw with anguish four more of her Marine icons were now showing red and six more amber. Amber meant their suits were damaged or worse. They had walked into a trap and were paying a deadly price for it.

Explosions began to detonate on the blastcrete as some of her Marines switched to using explosive rounds. More of the pop-ups were destroyed and soon the firing died back down and then stopped. The blastcrete on the spaceport nearest them was now full of smoking and ruined pop-ups and numerous small craters where explosive rounds had struck. Once again the firing came to a stop.

“Privates Bose and Evans, get your asses moving,” ordered Adams, feeling anger at the loss of more Marines. Some of them she had known and trained with for months. Over the years the Kleese had made the pop-ups more dangerous. “I want to know if there are any armed conscripts waiting for us and how many. Move out!”

-

Bose looked over at Evans. “I was hoping she’d forgotten about us.”

“Are you kidding?” Evans said. “You know you’re her favorite. Who pulls all the extra duty all the time?”

Bose didn’t reply but began walking across the blastcrete toward the row of hangers. If there were any conscripts here that’s where they would be hiding. The tall hangers or what was left of them would give the enemy some protection as well as the ability to fire down toward the advancing Marines. With a dejected sigh, Bose changed his rifle over to fire explosive rounds. He realized he needed to change his attitude or one of these days he was going to be sent on a mission and wouldn’t return. However, he had always had a hard time keeping his mouth shut.

-

Lieutenant Adams watched Privates Bose and Evans move across the blastcrete. She didn’t hate Private Bose; on the contrary he was one of her most dependable Marines. His biggest problem was his cockiness and not knowing when to keep his mouth shut. It reminded her of others she had commanded in the past. Most of them had moved on to become officers.

-

In space, aboard the Marine assault ship Victory Captain Marcus Avery watched the viewscreens showing the fighting on the planet. There were four spaceports under siege by Marines. So far two of them had fallen and the other two should shortly.

“Any contacts on the sensors?” asked Avery, looking over at Commander Brannon who was in charge of the Victory.

Brannon shook his head. “No, our battlecruisers have destroyed all twelve of the Kleese assault ships in the system and we’re jamming communications. The Alliance invasion fleet should be arriving in another two hours.”

Avery turned his attention to the large tactical display to his left. It hung from the ceiling and showed the disposition of the fleet accompanying the Victory. There were two other Marine assault ships. The Lexington and the Terra. In addition there were four heavy battlecruisers, six standard battlecruisers, twelve light cruisers, and twenty assault ships with the fleet. For the time being they had control of the system until the Alliance fleet arrived and could take over.

For the last thirty years Earth and the Alliance had been fighting the Kleese Empire, steadily freeing the worlds the Kleese held under its power. As worlds were freed most tended to join the Alliance, making it even stronger. In his last briefing back on Centerpoint Station, Avery had been informed it appeared the Kleese were abandoning the outer sections of their Empire plus strengthening the defenses around their core worlds and the planets they controlled in that region of space. Captain Avery knew there were still years of fighting ahead of them. There were many older conscript races who knew no other way than that taught to them by the Kleese. With some of those races, it would take the Alliance years to bring them back into the fold of civilization.

Those worlds would have to be conquered and shown the way of the Kleese was not that of a civilized world. Shifting his gaze back to the main viewscreen, he could barely see the spaceport where the kinetic strikes had just gone in. Heavy smoke was covering many of the buildings and the control tower in particular. If there were any Kleese on the planet that’s where they would be. It was the only spaceport where disk assault ships had been spotted and now destroyed.

-

The Marines had made it to the hangers. After a quick search, they found all six of the still intact buildings to be empty other than a few small freighters there to be serviced.

Lieutenant Adams stood between two of the hangers staring at the tall control tower. It seemed to be solidly constructed and she could see only two entrances. There were a number of windows as well as the main spaceport observation windows at the top of the structure. All were broken and shattered glass lay everywhere. She wished she could order a kinetic strike to destroy it but there was a high probability there were civilians inside as well as Kleese so they would have to do it the hard way.

Turning around in her battlesuit, she looked at Sergeant Styles standing next to her. “What do you think, Sergeant?”

“I don’t like it,” he replied as he checked out the surrounding area. “Where are the conscripts? If there are Kleese inside that tower there should be large numbers of conscripts somewhere. Other than the pop-ups, the fighting’s been relatively light.”

Adams pursed her lips. She knew Styles was right. Something wasn’t adding up. Could they be walking into a trap?

“Everyone keep your eyes open,” she ordered. “Watch your sensors for any signs of movement.”

Suddenly weapons fire erupted from the windows of the control tower and a ring of pop-up weapons pushed up from the blastcrete.

“Return fire!” shouted Lieutenant Adams as she threw herself to the ground to avoid the incoming fire. The damn Kleese were using more pop-up weapons in every major battle. They were cheap to build and could be controlled remotely.

Explosions rocked the base of the tower as a number of Marines used explosive rounds to take out the pop-ups. Others were firing energy beams and armor piercing rounds at the windows where the weapons fire was coming from. Occasionally Adams could hear a Marine cry out in pain from a weapons hit. Several more icons on her HUD turned red and even more glowed amber.

After a few minutes of heavy fire it died down and came to a stop. Adams took some time to study the control tower. She could detect no movement with the advanced sensors in her suit.

“Sergeant Pepper, take your platoon in,” ordered Lieutenant Adams. “Search that tower floor by floor. Sergeant Styles, secure the perimeter to ensure no armed conscripts can get to us. I still feel they have to be around here somewhere.”

Immediately Sergeant Pepper and his platoon drew their energy lances and headed toward the two doors leading into the tower. The energy lances put out a bluish color and were capable of penetrating any known metal. These new and more deadly lances were an improvement over the older ones which could not penetrate some substances.

-

Privates Evans and Bose were the first ones through the shattered doors of the tower. Going inside they found the bottom floor full of smoke and the bodies of several Promar Five inhabitants. The people of Promar Five resembled Humans but were thinner with very little hair on their heads. They had no eyebrows and their noses were wider.

“Conscripts,” said Bose, shoving one with his armored foot to make sure the being was dead. All had been armed with energy rifles.

“We’ve got some dead conscripts in here,” Private Evans reported over the comm as more Marines came in through the doors and began spreading out.

Sergeant Pepper came over and examined several of the bodies. “No sign of any Kleese. They’re probably on one of the top floors.”

Private Bose swung his energy lance in front of him and gestured toward a wide set of stairs. “Let’s go up and see what’s there.”

“I’m sending a squad with you,” said Sergeant Pepper. “If you encounter any resistance contact me and I’ll send up another squad.”

“And if we encounter any Kleese?” asked Bose still brandishing his energy lance.

“Kill them,” answered Sergeant Pepper coldly. “We don’t take any Kleese captive.”

Private Bose nodded. He had killed a few Kleese in previous missions. He would enjoy killing a few more after what they had done to the Human race in the past. There was no love lost between Humans and Kleese. There never had been and there never would be. “Let’s go,” said Bose, heading up the stairs.

Evans followed close behind followed by Corporal Stokes and six more Marines.

The group slowly made their way upward searching each floor as they went. All they found were dead conscripts lying near the windows where they had died. Reaching the top two floors they prepared themselves, expecting to finally come across some Kleese. Blowing the heavy doors open with explosives they rushed in with energy lances raised ready to strike. With surprise they stopped and looked around. There were only a few dead conscripts and no Kleese.

“Where are they?” said Private Bose, his voice tinged with disappointment.

Corporal Stokes stepped forward and looked out the shattered windows. “They were never here,” he said. “If they were, they must have escaped in an assault ship when the fleet first arrived. Or they could have been in the two assault ships hit with the kinetic strikes.”

“What now?” asked Evans as he turned off his energy lance and placed it back in its holder at his waist.

“We go back downstairs and make our report. The Alliance fleet will be here shortly and pacifying the rest of this world will be up to them. Our part in this is finished.”

All the other Marines turned off their energy lances. Anytime there was possible hand-to-hand combat with the Kleese, the energy lances were the preferred weapon.

-

Lieutenant Adams listened to the reports coming in. There were no Kleese in the control tower and a careful search of the other buildings and ships on the spaceport had come up empty as well. It was disappointing in one way and a relief in another. Normally when Kleese were involved there were large numbers of conscripts and the fighting would have been much heavier. The absence of Kleese explained why there had been so few conscripts protecting the spaceport. When the Kleese left they most likely took their conscripts with them for protection.

“So, now what?” asked Sergeant Styles. He had just returned from supervising the search of a number of cargo ships sitting on the blastcrete. They were empty with no crews on board.

Lieutenant Adams looked upward. She knew the fleet was orbiting the planet. “We wait for the Alliance forces to arrive. They’ll take over and contact the planetary government or whoever seems to be in charge now that the Kleese are gone. Some cargo ships with the fleet will place defensive satellites in orbit. Hopefully in a year or two Promar Five will join the Alliance.” Adams knew it was not as simple as that. After years of indoctrination and living in fear of the Kleese, it would take great effort on the part of the Alliance to bring the planet around. Promar Five was a very advanced world and could play an important role in the Alliance someday.

Sergeant Styles looked over where two Marines were examining a destroyed pop-up weapon. “I guess we return home now?”

Lieutenant Adams nodded. “That’s the plan. We’re to be rotated out with another Marine company. We’ve served our time for now. It’s time to go back home and get some well deserved rest.” Lieutenant Adams’ Marines had been involved in combat on seven worlds. Nearly thirty percent of her Marines had been lost in the battles. The price of removing the Kleese and their conscripts from planets was always expensive.

-

Captain Avery listened as reports from the surface continued to come in. So far no Kleese had been found. Lieutenant Adams believed they had fled in an assault ship when the Human fleet was first detected.

“It appears the Kleese have escaped us,” Avery said to Commander Brannon. “All ground units report no contact with any of the enemy.”

Commander Brannon frowned at hearing this. “There’s a large Kleese trading station about two hundred light years distant. No doubt they have fled there.”

“Out of our reach,” replied Avery’, feeling frustrated the Kleese had escaped. In recent years the Kleese had heavily armed all of their remaining trading stations and they were protected by large fleets of warships. To attack one would involve losses the Alliance could ill afford. “All resistance on the planet should be over in another few hours. Once the Alliance ships start to land we can recall our people and head back to the Solar System.”

Commander Brannon nodded. “When we return another assault fleet will be sent out. I believe the Alliance has located four more star systems they want to free from the Kleese before the year’s out.”

This didn’t surprise Captain Avery. There was considerable concern about what the Kleese might be building in their core worlds. For nearly thirty years now the Alliance along with Earth had steadily been pushing the Kleese back from the outer fringes of their Empire. The members of the Alliance felt they needed to expand as rapidly as possible before the Kleese brought sufficient forces to bear to stop them. Many member worlds were surprised it hadn’t happened already.

“Rear Admiral Haden plans on us leaving late tomorrow,” added Brannon. “He wants to make sure the Alliance has a firm hand on everything before our fleet withdraws.”

This pleased Captain Avery. It had been nearly seven months since any of his Marines had been home. He was curious to see what Earth looked like. For the last few years the planet had been undergoing terraforming using some of the advanced science from the Alliance worlds. When Avery had been at Centerpoint Station last he had actually seen gaps in the heavy cloud layer over the planet. Someday the Human race might just be able to resettle their home world.

-

The next morning Lieutenant Adams walked up the ramp of one of the assault ships waiting for her Marines to board. Stepping inside she went over to an alcove and pressed a large green button on the side of it. Instantly magnetic clamps came down, holding the battlesuit in place and then the helmet rose up and the suit opened down the center allowing her to step out. She shivered slightly as she was only dressed in very light garments. This allowed the sensors in the suit to monitor her body during combat and take whatever medical procedures were necessary if she was injured.

Adams went over to a locker, took out her uniform, and then headed for the showers. Once she was cleaned up, she would head to her quarters and write her after action report. This would be the last combat mission she would be going on for a while. Her next assignment was a training one. She was to report to Centerpoint Station to help train the next generation of Marines. It was an assignment she was looking forward to. It was also much safer than being out in the field fighting the Kleese and their conscripts.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NJKYQM4

Other Books by Raymond L. Weil

Available on Amazon

Moon Wreck (The Slaver Wars Book 1)

The Slaver Wars: Alien Contact (The Slaver Wars Book 2)

Moon Wreck: Fleet Academy (The Slaver Wars Book 3)

The Slaver Wars: First Strike (The Slaver Wars Book 4)

The Slaver Wars: Retaliation (The Slaver Wars Book 5)

The Slaver Wars: Galactic Conflict (The Slaver Wars Book 6)

The Slaver Wars: Endgame (The Slaver Wars Book 7)

The Slaver Wars: Books 1-3

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Dragon Dreams

Dragon Dreams: Dragon Wars

Dragon Dreams: Gilmreth the Awakening

Dragon Dreams: Snowden the White Dragon

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Star One: Tycho City: Survival

Star One: Neutron Star

Star One: Dark Star

Star One

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Galactic Empire Wars: Destruction (Book 1)

Galactic Empire Wars: Emergence (Book 2)

Galactic Empire Wars: Rebellion (Book 3)

Galactic Empire Wars: The Alliance (Book 4)

Galactic Empire Wars: Insurrection (Book 5)

Galactic Empire Wars: Final Conflict (Book 6)

Galactic Empire Wars: The Beginning (Books 1-3)

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The Lost Fleet: Galactic Search (Book 1)

The Lost Fleet: Into the Darkness (Book 2)

The Lost Fleet: Oblivion’s Light (Book 3)

The Lost Fleet: Genesis (Book 4)

The Lost Fleet: Search for the Originators (Book 5)

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The Star Cross (Book 1)

The Star Cross: The Dark Invaders (Book 2)

The Star Cross: Galaxy in Peril (Book 3)

The Star Cross: The Forever War (Book 4)

The Star Cross: The Vorn! (Book 5)

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The Originator Wars: Universe in Danger (Book 1)

The Originator Wars: Search for the Lost (Book 2)

The Originator Wars: Conflict Unending (Book 3)

The Originator Wars: Explorations (Book 4)

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Earth Fall: Invasion (Book 1)

Earth Fall: To the Stars (Book 2)

Earth Fall: Empires at War (Book 3)

(All dates are tentative)

Dragon Dreams: Firestorm Mountain (Book 4) July 2019

The Originator Wars: The Multiverse (Book 5) September 2019